PLANNED TRIMMING & REMOVAL OF DEAD TREES ON NEW ENGLAND HIGHWAY, MT KYNOCH TO HAMPTON

24/2/2021

The Iconic 500+ Year Old Eucalyptus Saligna (Sydney Blue Gum) at Hampton in 2015 in far better days, before it's decline from the long drought. (Image Source: Google 2015)

I have received a phone call this afternoon from a friend that works at TMR informing me of the planned upcoming trimming and removal of dead or dying trees on the New England Highway Toowoomba Region, from Mt Kynoch to Hampton. This will include trimming of the 500+ year old Eucalyptus Saligna in the centre of Hampton which has suffered terrible die-back during the long drought.

I have spoken extensively with TMR staff and have been reassured that Registered Wildlife Fauna Catchers will be on site for the period of the tree works. I have offered assistance of our network of wildlife carers, should any animals need to come into care. I have also voiced my concerns about hollow dwelling species not being "let go" to find their own place to live and the precarious outcomes should this happen. I informed TMR about the possible presence of vulnerably listed Greater Gliders. We are waiting to confirm which wildlife spotter company will be in attendance.

Three separate arborists have conduced the assessment of the trees and as much as possible will be done to retain tree hollows and wildlife habitat.

We thank TMR for contacting us regarding this upcoming work so we can reassure local residents regarding the preservation of any wildlife and wildlife habitat that may be encountered.

Full press release below, shared with permission.

Judi Gray
Toowoomba Koala and Wildlife Rescue.