A passionate group of locals, calling themselves Council for the Trees, gathered outside Central Coast Council Chambers in Gosford on Monday, October 23, to show their love of trees, habitat and green spaces, and to call for better local protections for urban forests.
Several groups attended, including Kariong Eco Garden, Grow Urban Shade Trees and Save Davistown Wetlands, and spoke about their campaigns.
Central Coast Mayor, Clr Jane Smith, Deputy Mayor, Clr Chris Holstein, and Clr Bruce McLachlan met with the gathering.
They were greeted by The Lorax, a Doctor Seuss character, who “speaks for the trees”.
The gathering took place after an invitation from Kariong Eco Garden was shared on social media.
“We are very aware that our little battle to stop the Woy Woy Rd roundabout taking out nearly every tree in Dandaloo Street, unnecessarily, was just one of many battles around the Coast and, indeed, the State,” said Ms Lisa Wriley, coordinator of Kariong Eco Garden.
“It was heartening seeing the different groups chatting with each other about their campaigns and a sense of solidarity was evident,” said Ms Sue Chidgey, who successfully coordinated the 2016 Save Central Coast Reserves campaign.
At the gathering, Clr Smith presented Ms Wriley with a new plan for the roundabout on Woy Woy Rd, showing an adjustment to the Dandaloo St arm, with the intention of sparing the three major trees on the edge of the current community hall car park.
“Kariong Eco Garden representatives were grateful that they had been heard and were seeking assurances that the new plan allowed enough space around the trees to ensure their survival.”
Clr Smith said the decision was a good compromise and ensured the best possible outcome for the community.
“The community have wanted this upgrade for a long time, but also want to protect the amenity of their local area, and saving these trees has achieved that,” Clr Smith said.
“I commend Council staff for being responsive to community concerns and the effort they put into looking at options that will protect the trees.
“The upgrade can still go ahead in the timeframe and cost, and that is a real win for the community.”
Source:
Media statement, Oct 23
Sue Chidgey, Council for the Trees
Media release, Oct 26
Helen Stenbeck, Kariong Eco Garden