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Scam warning as shonks prey on tree-removal confusion

UNSCRUPULOUS operators are preying on Yarra Ranges residents’ confusion over the new 10/30 vegetation removal rules.
 
Yarra Ranges Shire has reported at least one incident whereby an elderly resident was approached and told she was required to remove trees following the introduction of the new vegetation removal laws.
 
“On Tuesday, an elderly Mt Evelyn resident was approached by someone claiming that as a result of the State Government’s new 10/30 rules, she was obliged to remove a number of trees from her property,’’ shire spokesman James Martin told Lilydale & Yarra Valley Leader.


“She was ‘quoted’ a figure of around $5000 for each tree. The lady was understandably very upset and was fearful that she would have to sell her home as she could not afford to have the trees removed.”

What do you think of such people preying on community fears over the bushfire threat? Have your say at the Leaders Website.


The victim contacted the shire, and was correctly advised that residents were under no obligation to remove trees under the 10/30 vegetation removal right.

Mr Martin said anyone needing advice could contact the shire’s planning department on 1300 368 333 and anyone approached in a similar fashion should contact police.

>> Link: Department of Sustainability and Environment 10/30 vegetation removal fact sheets

Online Comments:

No Tree No water:

ARE ALL THIS RESIDENTS Really crazy to think to have TREES DOWN WILL SAVE THEM FROM FIRE that is just going to reduce the value of property increase water evaporation lack of rainfall, sil erosion and further soil degradation and nothing will grow there again..and will destroy the environment 

this people are with low level of education too. 

and also to have dams IN HOT DRY ARID climate where most of properties 80% are completely stripped of vegetation ..go back to school obviously most of you are on the level of primary school… 

tourism and visitor numbers will further decline in yarra valley as noone wants to see scorched naked vandalised land…

Source: http://lilydale-yarra-valley-leader.whereilive.com.au/news/story/scam-warning-as-shonks-prey-on-10-30-tree-removal-confusion/