Reprieve for some of Port Fairy’s iconic ‘itchy bomb’ trees

Wishart Street resident of four years Jennifer Lang told councillors most people living on the side of the street under the trees wanted them removed.

“There’s a real difference between living under these trees and living opposite these trees,” she said. “They’re horrible and dirty and I regard them as toxic.”

Ms Lang said her family’s health was affected by the trees, with her son experiencing asthma.

Earlier this year, a resident requested council remove the tree in front of his home because it caused severe allergy issues for his granddaughter when she visited.

The request prompted council to seek public feedback on removing the seven Norfolk Island hibiscus trees, which attracted 25 submissions.

The majority of Wishart Street residents opposed the removal of the trees in council submissions, but a slight majority of residents in neighbouring streets favoured the removal.

Long-time Wishart Street resident Marten Syme spoke passionately in favour of keeping the trees, pointing out they were planted in 1947.

“I believe the age of the street is important relative to the street’s character,” he said.

Mr Syme also said the trees "are important in reducing the strength of wind whistling through Wishart Street in the winter”.

Councillor Colin Ryan was among councillors those who voted to keep the trees, with Jill Parker and Jordan Lockett also in support.

Councillors Ian Smith and Mick Wolfe were absent from the vote due to declarations of interest.

Cr Ryan said Wishart Street was an “iconic street” in Port Fairy, which was recognised by its heritage overlay.

“It is an iconic, historical street and the trees have been there for 70 years,” he said.

“It's an important part of Port Fairy.”

Councillor Jordan Lockett said he saw no direct link that said the trees caused asthma and hayfever.

He said Wishart Street as the “jewel in the crown of Port Fairy”.