Simple sign in Sydney sparks strong reactions: ‘Fills me with joy’
- Replies 6
There’s something truly magical about Sydney Harbour—sparkling blue water, the iconic bridge, and lush greenery framing the view.
It’s no wonder so many locals and visitors alike dream of waking up to that postcard-perfect scene every morning.
But what happens when someone’s desire for a better view crosses the line? Well, in one leafy Sydney suburb, a bold sign has exposed a not-so-neighbourly act, and the community’s reaction is nothing short of entertaining.
Recently, a sharp-eyed Sydneysider spotted a rather unique sign in Woolwich and couldn’t resist sharing it on social media.
The sign, put up by the Sydney Harbour Federation Trust, stands where a tree once grew—until, that is, someone decided it was blocking their million-dollar view and took matters (and possibly a saw) into their own hands.
The sign reads: 'Tree vandalism has occurred in this area. The Sydney Harbour Federation Trust protects and manages this land for the enjoyment of the public. Acts of vandalism like this deprive all of us of the natural environment.'
It’s a blunt message, and it’s got locals talking. One commenter summed up the mood perfectly: 'I only just saw this the other day too and it fills me with joy. Hope whoever did it (clearly it was the homeowners behind this point) feels ashamed!'
The reaction online has been overwhelmingly supportive of the Trust’s approach. Many are calling out the act for what it is: selfish and entitled.
'I wholeheartedly support councils erecting and maintaining garish signs like this until they can replace them with trees of the same profile and appearance as the ones vandalised,' wrote another commenter.
'It’s heartbreaking to see beautiful, decades-old (if not older) trees being destroyed by entitled sods who lust over unobstructed harbour views.'
It’s not just a Sydney problem, either. Across Australia, similar signs have been popping up in response to tree vandalism, especially in areas where a leafy branch can mean the difference between a good view and a great one (and, let’s be honest, a hefty increase in property value).
Earlier this year, a video went viral showing a Sunshine Coast Council sign in front of a house with suddenly spectacular beach views.
The sign didn’t mince words: 'This vegetation has been illegally vandalised. People found damaging native vegetation will be prosecuted. This sign will remain in place until vegetation has regrown to its previous extent.'
Source: @fedupted / Tiktok.
Locals loved it. 'I love this because everyone who comes to their house then knows what they did,' one commenter said. Another added, 'I don’t agree with a lot of things councils do. But this is brilliant.'
It’s easy to see the temptation—after all, who wouldn’t want to gaze out at the harbour or the beach without a single leaf in the way? But the consequences go far beyond one person’s view.
Trees provide shade, habitat for wildlife, and help keep our cities cool. When someone takes it upon themselves to remove a tree, they’re not just changing their own outlook—they’re robbing the whole community of a precious natural asset.
And let’s not forget, it’s illegal. Councils and trusts are cracking down, with hefty fines and, as we’ve seen, a bit of public shaming thrown in for good measure.
If you notice suspicious activity or see evidence of tree vandalism in your area, don’t hesitate to report it to your local council or land management authority.
Many councils have hotlines or online forms for exactly this purpose. And if you’re passionate about protecting your local environment, consider joining a community group or volunteering for tree-planting days—every little bit helps.
Read more: Are you breaking the law without knowing it? The confusing Aussie parking sign that’s leaving drivers baffled
Have you seen signs like these in your neighbourhood? What do you think about councils calling out tree vandals? Share your thoughts and stories in the comments below!
It’s no wonder so many locals and visitors alike dream of waking up to that postcard-perfect scene every morning.
But what happens when someone’s desire for a better view crosses the line? Well, in one leafy Sydney suburb, a bold sign has exposed a not-so-neighbourly act, and the community’s reaction is nothing short of entertaining.
Recently, a sharp-eyed Sydneysider spotted a rather unique sign in Woolwich and couldn’t resist sharing it on social media.
The sign, put up by the Sydney Harbour Federation Trust, stands where a tree once grew—until, that is, someone decided it was blocking their million-dollar view and took matters (and possibly a saw) into their own hands.
The sign reads: 'Tree vandalism has occurred in this area. The Sydney Harbour Federation Trust protects and manages this land for the enjoyment of the public. Acts of vandalism like this deprive all of us of the natural environment.'
It’s a blunt message, and it’s got locals talking. One commenter summed up the mood perfectly: 'I only just saw this the other day too and it fills me with joy. Hope whoever did it (clearly it was the homeowners behind this point) feels ashamed!'
A Woolwich resident is suspected of cutting down a tree to improve their Sydney Harbour view, prompting the Sydney Harbour Federation Trust to erect a sign exposing the act as vandalism. Image source: @amateurgeek_ / Reddit.
The reaction online has been overwhelmingly supportive of the Trust’s approach. Many are calling out the act for what it is: selfish and entitled.
'I wholeheartedly support councils erecting and maintaining garish signs like this until they can replace them with trees of the same profile and appearance as the ones vandalised,' wrote another commenter.
'It’s heartbreaking to see beautiful, decades-old (if not older) trees being destroyed by entitled sods who lust over unobstructed harbour views.'
It’s not just a Sydney problem, either. Across Australia, similar signs have been popping up in response to tree vandalism, especially in areas where a leafy branch can mean the difference between a good view and a great one (and, let’s be honest, a hefty increase in property value).
Earlier this year, a video went viral showing a Sunshine Coast Council sign in front of a house with suddenly spectacular beach views.
The sign didn’t mince words: 'This vegetation has been illegally vandalised. People found damaging native vegetation will be prosecuted. This sign will remain in place until vegetation has regrown to its previous extent.'
Source: @fedupted / Tiktok.
Locals loved it. 'I love this because everyone who comes to their house then knows what they did,' one commenter said. Another added, 'I don’t agree with a lot of things councils do. But this is brilliant.'
It’s easy to see the temptation—after all, who wouldn’t want to gaze out at the harbour or the beach without a single leaf in the way? But the consequences go far beyond one person’s view.
Trees provide shade, habitat for wildlife, and help keep our cities cool. When someone takes it upon themselves to remove a tree, they’re not just changing their own outlook—they’re robbing the whole community of a precious natural asset.
And let’s not forget, it’s illegal. Councils and trusts are cracking down, with hefty fines and, as we’ve seen, a bit of public shaming thrown in for good measure.
If you notice suspicious activity or see evidence of tree vandalism in your area, don’t hesitate to report it to your local council or land management authority.
Many councils have hotlines or online forms for exactly this purpose. And if you’re passionate about protecting your local environment, consider joining a community group or volunteering for tree-planting days—every little bit helps.
Read more: Are you breaking the law without knowing it? The confusing Aussie parking sign that’s leaving drivers baffled
Have you seen signs like these in your neighbourhood? What do you think about councils calling out tree vandals? Share your thoughts and stories in the comments below!
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