Deliberate poisoning of vegetation at Dicky Beach

Following the discovery of a suspicious material scattered in vegetation along the Coastal Pathway at Dicky Beach, Council confirms that samples collected have tested positive for herbicide. 

Anyone with information relating to this deliberate act of vandalism is encouraged to come forward.

Vandalism, of any kind, is not tolerated and can lead to prosecution.

Fast facts 

• Vegetation has been deliberately poisoned on the western side of the Coastal Pathway at Dicky Beach. 
• The community should stay out of vegetated areas and keep dogs on a leash. 
• Further testing will take place mid-November. 
• Anyone with information that may assist in identifying the person/s responsible should call Council on 5475 7272 
• Council will continue to monitor the health and public safety of the Norfolk Pine, with removal a possibility. 

Samples were taken from vegetation along the western side of the Coastal Pathway at Dicky Beach, where vegetation was in obvious decline. 

A 200-300 lineal metre stretch of native vegetation, including a mature Norfolk Pine, were targeted and are unlikely to recover. 

Signage and safety

Council is erecting temporary barriers and signage to mark the extent of the damage at the site. 

The Coastal Pathway is already an on-leash area, however as an added precaution, signage reminds dog owners to keep their dogs on a leash and to stay out of vegetated areas. 

Council will conduct another round of independent testing to identify the full extent of the poisoning and will share the outcome with the community.

Please come forward

Council is calling on the community to share any information or evidence that may assist in their investigations to identify the person/s responsible for this distressing and highly impactful vandalism. 

Vandalism of any kind is not tolerated and could lead to prosecution. The community is encouraged to report suspicious activity or acts of vandalism to Council immediately, including and photos or video evidence that may support the investigation. 

Any sightings of unusual materials in vegetated areas should be reported to Council on 5475 7272, along with a photo of the material and a clear location.  

Next steps

Council will continue to monitor the health of the vegetation at Dicky Beach, especially the large Norfolk Pine which is showing extensive signs of decline.  

If the tree is unable to recover and is assessed as a risk to public safety, Council will unfortunately have no option but to remove it. 

As investigations progress, Council will consider what further actions are required to support management and rehabilitation of the affected areas.