North Maleny residents outraged over needless subdivision tree clearing
North Maleny’s community has expressed deep concern following the destruction of more than 40 mature trees to make way for a land subdivision access road.
The noisy, four-day felling and chipping operation greatly distressed neighbours as they witnessed the needless destruction of numerous significant rainforest species like red cedar and beach - some over 25 metres tall with girths exceeding a metre.
Residents described the destruction as both “environmentally and emotionally devastating”, citing the loss of crucial habitat for many native species such as tawny frogmouth owls.
“These trees have stood for decades, providing shelter and biodiversity,” said Ros Yuen, who lives next door to the development site at 9 Vale End North Maleny.
“Seeing them fall within minutes for the sake of a concrete access road is deeply troubling – especially so when alternative designs could easily have ensured their preservation.”
Ms Yuen said she and other community members were now questioning how such extensive clearing was approved within this semi-rural zone renowned for its ecological value.
“We are calling on the Sunshine Coast Council and local representative Councillor Winston Johnston to clarify whether adequate environmental assessments and site inspections were undertaken prior to approval,” she said.
Ms Yuen said she had written to Council, both before and after the development was approved, to highlight the potential environmental impacts, but had received no formal response.
“This event raises serious concerns about the Council’s commitment to sustainable planning and environmental protection,” Ms Yuen stressed. “We urge an immediate review of the current approval processes to prevent further unnecessary loss of native habitat.”
The North Maleny community would continue to advocate for greater transparency, stronger environmental safeguards and responsible development practices across the region, Ms Yuen said.
“If this can happen to one neighbourhood, how many plots have the Council similarly approved which will result in the needless destruction of native trees and vegetation?”
