ABSTRACT
Pieter’s presentation will look at how tropical fungi affect tree assessment, data collection, decision making processes, public consultation, and tree management costs. As with many councils, Cairns’ decisions are closely scrutinised by the public, particularly in relation to the removal of large trees infected by fungi. Extensive consultation campaigns can be good for public relations but are not always expedient due unacceptable levels of risk, rapid tree growth, and high rates of decay. Cairns Regional Council actively involves community groups in decision making processes, to inform them and to try to gain their support for remedial actions once a high-risk tree has been identified. When there is time, engaging with and informing the public regarding Council’s tree management processes builds trust, which is of considerable benefit when high risk prevents consultation.
