Technical Services
Tree Management Policy
During the early years of campus establishment, several varieties of trees which have proved
unsuitable for placement in public areas, were included in the landscaped areas, including
car parks. The species proving to be the biggest problem is Eucalyptus camaldulensis
(River Red Gum) which habitually sheds branches with changes of temperature or on windy days.
A continuing programme of re-planting in car parks and road verges is being carried out
to replace unsuitable species with more suitable indigenous species.
Over-planting is the standard procedure when landscaping development is being initiated,
followed by the removal of unthrifty specimens as appropriate at a later date. Notwithstanding this,
the University's policy is that removal is restricted to trees which are:
- creating a hazard to people
- damaging essential services
- growing in unsafe areas e.g. too close to buildings or roads
- being cleared for new construction projects.
Tree pruning is carried out:
- to make the tree safe by relieving weighty or damaged limbs
- to remove branches which are in contact with buildings
- to improve a tree's shape
- to remove dead or diseased wood
- to improve sight lines on corners and access pathways
- to improve security and prevent fire entering the tree foliage.
When pruning or removal takes place, small branches are wood chipped and stock piled
for re-cycling as walktrails around campus. Large trunks and branches are cut into small
logs for the campus community to take for fire wood. These stockpiles are located in
the Grounds Compound adjacent to the sportsfield.
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