Tree to go in Landsborough

Large Landsborough tree to be felled

The dead Silky Oak outside the Landsborough train station will have to go

Mystery surrounds the death of a mature tree in Railway Park at Landsborough.

Locals would not be able to miss the skeletal frame of the very large silky oak tree, situated in the park next to the train station, which has suddenly died for no apparent reason.

According to a Sunshine Coast Council spokesperson, the tree was reported on March 4, with council’s tree assessment team investigating but finding there was nothing they could do.

“There is no evidence that the tree was poisoned,” the spokesperson said.

“Silky oaks are very susceptible to different types of root disease and even a small amount of disturbance within the critical root zone can cause decline,” the spokesperson said.

“The large native tree was providing shade to a picnic table and children’s playground, which will now be in full sun.

“With the tree located in a high use public space, council has made the decision to cut it down. Silky oak is a sought-after timber and council says it won’t be wasted.

“The lower log will be salvaged and offered to millers and wood working groups.

“The upper limbs and canopy will be chipped and used as mulch in council parks,” the spokesperson said.

Council has indicated that the tree will be replaced with a suitable species that matches the area and, although it is yet to decide what that will be, it will be an advanced specimen that will provide useful shade within several years.

Asked what locals should do if they see trees showing signs of ill health in council parks, the spokesperson said that residents should call customer contact on 5475 7272 and lodge a request for arborist inspection.