A centuries-old natural wonder has been cut to the ground in Western Australia, angering locals.
The cherished peppermint tree has stood in the Ferguson Valley for 800 years.
“To think that it could have been destroyed in a matter of minutes is … well, it’s gutting, it is hopeless,” former Greens leader Bob Brown
The tree, nicknamed the “Bob Brown” tree for the environmentalist and former Greens Senator, is believed to have stood since the 12th century.
Calling into 6PR, Mr Brown said he was “appalled” at the loss.
“I’ve seen this repeatedly where trees have been destroyed, sometimes to get back at environmentalists, but often for no good reason,” he said.
said.
“This tree was there in the 12th century, if the ageing of it is correct. It has great significance for the Noongar people.
“It was a great source of inspiration and wonder, potentially for a century or two more to come. But that wasn’t taken into account.”
Mr Brown said he had written to WA Premier Roger Cook about the incident.
“The locals are devastated,” Mr Brown said.
