Camphor laurel removal in Heritage Park

Published on 16 October 2024

As the part of upgrade of Heritage Park at Mullumbimby, Byron Shire Council is restoring the riverbank.

There many mature rainforest trees in the area, but there are also exotic species including Camphor laurel.

This week staff and contractors are working along the riverbank, removing Camphor laurel trees and replacing them with suitable native species.

Andy Erskine, Council’s Open Space Technical Officer, said that unlike the rainforest trees, the root systems of the Camphors are undermined by the actual river and are contributing to erosion of the riverbank.

“One of the Camphors we are removing is very large and while no one likes to see trees of this size cut down, it is contributing to significant erosion and scouring of that sensitive, riverine environment,” Mr Erskine said.

“The replacement trees will not only secure the bank, but erosion will also be minimised, and they will provide much improved habitat for native birds, animals and aquatic species,” Mr Erskine said.

Camphor laurel is highly regarded as a cabinet timber and salvaged wood will be repurposed by local sawmillers.