Illegal tree clearing damages nature reserve

Published on 23 July 2026

• Around 70 native trees illegally cut down at Fay Smith Wetlands in Maryborough
• Environmental damage valued at around $70,000 based on replacing trees of similar maturity
• Council rangers investigating as community urged to help identify those responsible

A makeshift shelter complete with walls, a tarpaulin roof and fencing has illegally been built at Fay Smith Wetlands in Maryborough using around 70 native trees illegally cut from the Council-managed nature reserve, causing environmental damage estimated at around $70,000.

This estimate is based on the cost of replacing trees of a similar maturity and is intended to illustrate the environmental value of what has been lost. It does not represent the expected cost of restoring the site.

Fraser Coast Regional Councillor Paul Truscott said Council rangers were investigating the illegal clearing, which had damaged an important natural area enjoyed by both the community and local wildlife.

“The extent of this damage is extremely disappointing," Cr Truscott said.

“Tools including a hand saw, rakes, a shovel and a spade were also found at the site and will be handed over to police to assist with their investigation.

“Fay Smith Wetlands provides valuable habitat for native wildlife and is a place where residents can enjoy nature close to home.

“It's also cared for by a dedicated group of volunteers who generously give their time to protect and improve this special reserve, making this damage even more disheartening.”

While mature trees cannot be replaced overnight, the affected area is expected to regenerate over time with the support of Council staff and dedicated volunteers through natural regeneration and revegetation using tube stock.

Cr Truscott said the incident, which will be reported to Queensland Police, involved mostly Red Ash (Alphitonia excelsa) and Broad-leaved Paperbark (Melaleuca quinquenervia) trees being cut down.

“Located on the corner of Neptune and Victory streets, Fay Smith Wetlands features walking tracks, interpretive signage and important habitat for a range of native wildlife,” he said.

“Illegal vegetation damage has consequences well beyond the loss of individual trees.

“Illegal tree clearing destroys wildlife habitat, reduces biodiversity and can leave natural areas more vulnerable to erosion and extreme weather.

“It also costs ratepayers money to rehabilitate damaged areas, diverting funds that could otherwise be invested in other community projects.

“These reserves belong to the whole community - damaging native vegetation doesn't just harm the environment, it also undermines the hard work of the volunteers who care for these spaces.”

Cr Truscott said the environmental damage was estimated at around $70,000, based on the cost of replacing trees of a similar maturity.

“Anyone found responsible for illegally damaging vegetation on Council-managed land may face fines and be invoiced for the cost of remedial works,” he said.

“Current penalties are approximately $166 for each tree damaged without Council authorisation, meaning offences involving 70 trees could attract fines totaling more than $11,600, in addition to any other enforcement action that may apply.”

Cr Truscott urged anyone with information about the incident to come forward.

“We're asking anyone who witnessed suspicious activity or has seen anyone living in the makeshift shelter to contact Council," he said.

“Reporting illegal vegetation damage helps protect our natural environment and ensures these special places can continue to be enjoyed by future generations.”

Anyone with information can contact Fraser Coast Regional Council on 1300 79 49 29, email enquiry@frasercoast.qld.gov.au, or visit frasercoast.qld.gov.au/illegal-vegetation-damage.

Council rangers are continuing to investigate the incident.