Allora has two massive Bunya Pines on the corner of Darling and Williams Streets – opposite the Showgrounds.

In the bad storm last week branches were ripped from the Pines with sharply pointed leaves falling to the ground covering the lawn and gutters of the nearby home.

If a child or even adult was under the Pines when a cone dropped on their head there could be serious consequences. Is it time these Bunya Pines were permanently removed?

As they are on Council land The Allora Advertiser approached the Southern Downs Regional Council for answers and is Council responsible if someone is seriously injured by a falling Bunya nut cone?

Allora’s Bunya Pines

The reply from a Council spokesperson –

The Bunya Pines in Allora are not heritage listed trees.

As with all trees in Council’s care, these trees are subject to regular monitoring and periodic maintenance to ensure their health and public safety are maintained.

In the case of Bunya Pines, this includes proactive removal of the pine cones or Bunya nuts.

Council currently has no plans to remove these trees.

However, trees are living beings where their condition can change rapidly.

Accordingly, Council welcomes feedback from the community should they have concerns about a tree on Council land.

This article appeared in the Allora Advertiser, 22 February 2023.