Simon McLaurim with his children Nathan and Alex and neighbour John are urging council to take action to preserve the oak trees along Memorial Drive in Narre Warren North. 27227 Picture: Stewart Chambers
By Kelly Yates
RESIDENTS in Narre Warren North say their neighbourhood is the forgotten street in the City of Casey.
Simon McLaurim and neighbour John, who both live along Memorial Drive in Narre Warren North, have joined forces to put pressure on the Casey Council to preserve the oak trees in the street.
Mr McLaurim told the News he was disgusted that the council was neglecting the symbolic trees.
“These trees were planted as a memorial for the veterans who lost their lives during the First World War,” he said. “They are suffering from the drought and Casey Council seem more concerned about watering the rose bushes in Berwick than preserving the heritage trees.” More than seven trees along Memorial Drive look like they are dying, according to the local residents. The trees were planted in 1919, making the avenue 90 years old.
In 2008 the council adopted a report regarding the ongoing management and maintenance of the seven Avenues of Honour in Casey. The report recommended they start aeration works then top dressing to maximise the penetration into the root system of any available rainfall.
Deadwood removal from the tree crowns has also been done, according to council’s parks and reserves manager Trevor Griffin.
Mr McLaurim suggested putting plastic bollards filled with recycled water at the bottom of the trees which was used effectively in Melbourne.
Mr McLaurim, who has been living along Memorial Drive for more than six years, said the water in the bollards would drain slowly and soak into the ground.
Mr Griffin said the large size of the trees prevented any surface application of water being effective as the water wouldn’t be able to penetrate down through to the large root zone.
The council does not recommend any application of water at this time as it would result in the tree using its stored energy reserves to produce secondary leaf production.
Residents with further concerns are encouraged to call the City of Casey on 9705 5200.
