Damage to the 12 trees, which were planted earlier this year in McLennan Reserve, included chopped trunks that would affect their growth and shape.
City of Mandurah chief executive Mark Newman said there were significant costs associated with vandalism to vegetation and illegal clearing, to the council and the environment.
“It is imperative for natural vegetation to exist in residential areas as a means of maintaining the unique character of Mandurah, protecting the City’s heritage and providing habitat for native birds,” he said.
“It is illegal to destroy vegetation growing on public land and I urge the community to report this kind of destruction immediately.”
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READ NOWMr Newman said trees contributed significantly to the environment and amenity of the City’s parks, reserves and streetscapes and also provided health and wellbeing benefits, including shade protection.
Ring barking, cutting down, lopping, removing, pruning, injuring or wilful destruction of trees on public land is illegal and can result in prosecution.
A reward of up to $1000 is available for information that results in successful prosecution.