Hobart's Heritage Trees Falling

0:00Workers in Hobart are chopping down two massive Sequoia trees in St. David's Park this week. Planted in 1937 to honor the coronation of King George VI and Queen Elizabeth, these heritage listed giants stood 32. Metres tall and 8.6 meters wide for the largest, with the other at 30 meters and 8.7 meters wide. The trees started declining fast last year from repeated fires scorching the canopy, vandalism damage, chemical contaminants, and fire foam in the soil. Plus fungal pathogens, city council arborists tried treatments, but nothing worked to turn them around. Locals and staff are feeling the loss hard since St. David's remains one of Hobart's favorite green spots. The dead trees pose no immediate danger to folks nearby, but letting them stand would ramp up risks down the line. Removal wraps up by Friday, with stumps getting leveled soon after and soil cleanup later this year. Council plans to plan two young Sequoias in their place to keep the legacy alive for generations ahead.

1:02They're even seeking community ideas on reusing the timber, with some already eyed for a new waterfront display project. Park stays open, just dear clear of the fence work zone. Sydney News today, powered by AI bringing you what matters.