Tree lopper to help clean up mess

A MARYBOROUGH tree lopper has volunteered his services to the elderly woman who was targeted by out-of-town traders recently and hit with a $10,500 bill.

Luke Brooks from S and L Quality Tree Services offered his expertise after reading yesterday's Chronicle report concerning the 87-year-old Arbury Street resident.

Mr Brooks (pictured) said he would be happy to finish off the job properly for the woman – for free.

The original job was done by Brisbane-based company All Queensland Tree Services, which was in the Fraser Coast area door-knocking for work.

“Taking the tops of those trees has actually made the situation worse,” Mr Brooks said.

“I want to offer to finish the job off for her. I'll remove the trees from the base, clean it all up and plant some replacement natives that are low-growing.”

Mr Brooks said he was fully qualified and insured and had several years experience in the industry.

The elderly woman's daughter yesterday said she would definitely consider taking Mr Brooks up on his offer.

“It's shocking what they've done,” she said.

A complaint has been made with the Office of Fair Trading.

Another local tree lopper, Peter Gibbson from Anchor Tree Lopping, told the Chronicle the $10,500 charged to the woman was thousands of dollars too much.

Mr Gibbson has been in the industry for more than 15 years and said no Maryborough yard would cost that much to clear completely.

Meanwhile, the Fraser Coast Regional Council issued a statement reminding people to be aware of local laws regarding vegetation clearing.

Acting director of development services Shane McGowan said the council had introduced laws to protect the environment and anyone considering clearing any vegetation should check first to find out how the regulations applied to them and whether a permit to clear was needed.

“Vegetation enhances the natural look and feel of neighbourhoods and plays a vital role in providing shade, habitat for wildlife, in maintaining soil health, for erosion protection and for minimising weed infestation,” he said.

Vegetation is currently protected in the Fraser Coast under local laws (Maryborough and Woocoo) and current planning schemes in Hervey Bay – including all of Howard, Torbanlea, Pacific Haven, Burrum Heads, Toogoom and surrounds and Tiaro.

Tree clearing is also regulated by the State Government under the Vegetation Management Act.

Councillor Sue Brooks, who chairs the council's environmental sustainability portfolio, said she was not impressed by the approach taken by the travelling tree lopper.

“I encourage all residents concerned about trees on their property to contact the council to ensure that the appropriate permit is obtained before paying anyone to carry out tree pruning or removal,” she said.

Land owners and tree removal operators uncertain about the rules can call the council's duty planner on 1300 794929.