Georges River Council intends to remove a large Hills Fig tree located at 117 Penshurst Street, Penshurst following independent arboricultural assessments that determined the tree presents an unacceptable risk to public safety.
The mature Hills Fig (Ficus macrocarpa) is on the Council’s Significant Tree Register. It has faced serious health decline and structural issues. The tree is scheduled to be removed during the week commencing 24 August, weather permitting.
The tree has been a prominent feature of the local streetscape for many years and Council does not make decisions to remove significant trees lightly. However, the latest expert advice indicates the risk posed by the tree can no longer be managed through pruning and maintenance alone.
Council first responded to reports of a large branch failure within the tree canopy in April 2026. After the inspection, Council removed the failed branch and deadwood to manage risks.
A follow-up assessment in July 2026 found that the tree’s condition had continued to decline. The assessment found the tree presents a high risk of failure, with the potential to impact people, vehicles and nearby property.
Following removal, replacement planting will be undertaken in line with Council’s Street Tree Master Plan (2024) to ensure the long-term retention and renewal of tree canopy within the local area.
Georges River Council Mayor Elise Borg said the decision to remove the tree was not taken lightly.
“It is with great disappointment that this significant Hills Fig needs to be removed,” Mayor Borg said.
“Trees on our Significant Tree Register are valued community assets and Council carefully considers all available management options before any removal decision is made.
“Unfortunately, the latest arboricultural advice confirms that the tree presents an unacceptable risk to public safety. In these circumstances, the safety of our community must remain Council’s highest priority.”
The tree was added to the Council’s Significant Tree Register in January 2024. It is monitored regularly through the Council’s Tree Management Program.
The decision to remove the tree was reviewed under Section 5.4 of Council’s Tree Management Policy 2024. This section requires any proposed removal of a tree on the Significant Tree Register to be reviewed and assessed by senior Council officers.
Georges River Council remains committed to protecting and enhancing the urban tree canopy while maintaining public safety and managing risks in accordance with professional arboricultural advice.
Residents worried about tree health or safety can report issues using the Council’s Log It Fix It portal.
