Community members in Milang have won a temporary reprieve for one of the town’s iconic Norfolk pine trees, after gathering this morning to block contractors from cutting it down.
One of two historic pines was felled yesterday, but locals remain determined to save its companion.
Residents say the trees were planted in the 1950s to help guide sailors and that they are now part of Milang’s identity, providing shade, habitat for birdlife, and a sense of history.
“The public amenity value of these trees to the community is way, way more than any cost to remedy minimal root damage to a path and possibly a shack,” resident Trevor Harden said. “To do this without public consultation is outrageous.”
About 15 residents rallied on Paddlesteamer Drive from 7am, forming a human barrier around the tree. Organiser Sarah Hope said the removal crew arrived an hour later but backed down.
“They couldn’t get through us and said they would stand down until DEW (the Department for Environment and Water) has had formal consultation with the community,” she said. “A massive thank you to everyone who came to protect our tree, and a special mention to Katie Gibbons-Whittam for sleeping at its base – that’s commitment.”
In a statement released yesterday, DEW said Norfolk pines are not native to South Australia and the Milang trees were not deemed significant, meaning no formal approval was required.
“The department is removing two Norfolk pine trees near shacks and a boat ramp at Paddlesteamer Drive, Milang,” a spokesperson said. “The trees are being safely removed by a qualified arborist due to the damage their root system is causing to the nearby shacks.”
The department said both the Milang Shack Owners Association and Alexandrina Council were notified ahead of the works.
Alexandrina Council has been contacted for comment.
Sarah Hope is now asking those who share the group’s concerns to write to the Crown Land Office in Berri requesting they reverse the decision.
Hear ARN’s Adam and Jennie chatting with Trevor Harden and Sarah Hope this morning via Soundcloud:
