MOSSEL BAY NEWS - Mossel Bay Municipality has responded to questions put to it about the Australian wild fig tree in Church Street, which was discovered on the ground on Sunday, 12 January.

The tree had appeared to be recovering, with healthy branches and green foliage evident, after surviving an attempt to destroy it in 2022.

There was an outcry by the public about this and Mossel Bay Advertiser reported on it at that time.

The municipality noted in a statement: "The tree fell on Sunday, 12 January, and obstructed a section of Church Street, whereafter is was removed for public safety."

The Advertiser reported on this online and in the newspaper on Friday, 18 January. It also put questions to the municipality.

The municipality responded this week, noting: "The tree was vandalised and poisoned in 2022 by an unknown person(s). Holes were drilled into the tree, into which diesel was poured."

It said the Parks Department of the municipality had made a concerted effort to save the tree after that.

"Following the rehabilitation efforts, some green leaves sprouted and gradual growth was observed, however, only on one side of the tree.

"Damage due to the poisoning was severe and despite all boosters and growth treatments, the tree’s trunk rotted at the bottom. 

"The growth that took place exceeded the capacity of the severely damaged trunk, which may ultimately have contributed to its final demise."

The municipality concluded: "An attempt will be made to cultivate saplings from the remains of the tree. The municipality cannot at this stage comment on future plans for the area."

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