Logan City Council will undertake a review of its dangerous-tree policy after private properties were damaged and at least one person almost killed by falling trees on council-owned land during Cyclone Alfred.
At a council meeting last week, councillor Tony Hall – whose division covers Bahrs Scrub, Edens Landing, Holmview, Loganlea, Meadowbrook, and part of Bethania – spoke of residents from across the city who were concerned about dangerous trees on council property.
“During ex-Cyclone Alfred, one of my residents in Bahrs Scrub felt the full force of nature when a massive tree, which towers over their property from just beyond their fence, fell through their roof,” Cr Hall said.
“Their son, who is wheelchair bound, narrowly escaped with the tree landing just meters from where he slept.
“His specially-modified vehicle was actually buried under the rubble of the garage that was destroyed nearby.”
According to Cr Hall, the resident had “frequently” cited safety concerns regarding the tree to council over the years, and had reported falling branches.
Council investigated the concerns and found the tree was “healthy and not fitting of the criteria within our current policy to be removed”.
“When both parties have done the right thing, but a bad result has still occurred, there is always room for improvement,” Cr Hall said.
“For this reason, myself and the mayor have asked council to review the current tree policy.
“Council is aware of the recent tree impacts on private property experienced during ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred and will now undertake a comprehensive review of the tree policy.”
Cr Hall and mayor Jon Raven agreed there would never be a “perfect tree policy”.
