Storm destroys transplanted tree
A 22-tonne Norfolk Island pine tree that was moved last week to make way for the $18 million City Beach redevelopment has become a victim of Perth’s wild weather.
The tree, moved from the beach to the nearby intersection of Oceanic Drive and Challenger Parade after six months of planning, was one of two destroyed in this week’s storm overnight Sunday.
The tree, estimated to be between 50 and 60 years old, had been supported by steel wires since being transplanted but the wires snapped in the storm.
Cambridge chief executive Jason Buckley said the loss of the two pines was “very disappointing and upsetting”.
“The trees were being relocated within the City Beach precinct and were intended to be a major feature of the new development,” he said.
“All six pines earmarked for relocation have been under the care of the Arbor Centre for the past six months, who have been preparing them to ensure they were in the best possible condition to withstand the move.
“We still have four trees to be relocated as part of the project and another four will remain in their current position, so in total eight Norfolk Island Pines will form part of the finished development.”
He said a decision on whether to plant one of the four remaining Norfolk Island Pines in the roundabout had yet to be made.
