The Burnett Riverbank will undergo stabilisation works to remove an overhang and ensure public safety, necessitating the removal of three large trees.
Bundaberg Regional Council’s parks and engineering staff have assessed the overhang and believes prolonged dry weather has caused the riverbank to crack which, following recent rainfall, caused a section of the bank to slip away.
Portfolio spokesperson Cr Wayne Honor said the riverbank stabilisation work was essential to public safety as the overhang was located above the popular riverside walkway, near the Burnett Traffic Bridge.
“Large sections of the bank fell down late last year, with the riverbank breaking off in very large sections,” Cr Honor said.
“Our concern is that further rain events could make the overhang larger as more sections fall away, or bring it down altogether.
“Three significant gum trees are located directly above this dangerous overhang and, unfortunately, makes its position all the more perilous.
“These large trees pose an unacceptable risk if the overhang was to give way, situated as it is in front of Anzac Park and above the walkway.”
To stabilise the bank an excavator will break away the overhang and a batter, similar to a retaining wall, will be shaped along the bank to support it.
Cr Honor said removing established trees was always a last resort, but public safety had to be prioritised.
“Council recognises the environmental and social value trees offer,” Cr Honor said.
“We are committed to greening our region and have already set the ambitious target to see one million trees planted in the region within four years.
“However, where tree health has declined and is unable to be restored we do need to prioritise eliminating any risk to residents or property.”
Cr Honor said Council had qualified arborists on staff and, where historically significant trees were involved, would often seek independent arborist advice prior to removal.
The health of a number of trees throughout the region was recently assessed and identified for removal.
These include:
- Norfolk Pines at Elliott Heads Caravan Park and Bargara foreshore
- Leopard tree on Totten Street
- Two Crows Ash trees on FE Walker Street
- Slash Pine on Mt Perry Road
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