BASS Coast Council recently refused an application to remove two condemned trees at Ventnor, despite arborists declaring them dangerous and the applicant offering to replace them.

This kind of rigid thinking raises bigger questions. What if those trees were standing in the way of housing for the homeless? Which would Council choose – the trees, or the chance to provide safe shelter for people in need?

Protecting vegetation is important, but it should never be treated as absolute. Common sense and balance are needed so that environmental concerns are weighed alongside community priorities like safety, housing, and social wellbeing. 

That balance is what good governance requires.

Rob Parsons, The Gurdies