Published on Monday, 20 May 2024 at 9:05:00 AM

The City of Vincent has established the Hyde Park Reference Group in response to the potential impact of Polyphagous shot-hole borer (PSHB) infested tree removal in Hyde Park. 

The reference group provides a forum for Vincent to engage with professional experts, stakeholders and community members to inform and obtain input and guidance into the restoration of tree canopy and associated plantings after treatment works.

The group is chaired by Vincent’s Executive Director Infrastructure and Environment with support from Manager Parks.

It includes nine highly skilled and engaged stakeholders and community members.

• Cain Holdsworth – Landscape Architect and qualified arborist with over 10 years’ experience across heritage landscapes, landscape architecture and arboriculture, including tree retention and protection.
• Pip Munckton – Registered Landscape Architect with experience working across government, private and university sectors. Passionate advocate for enhancing environment through creative and strategic design.
• Royce Turner - Arboricultural Consultant with over 35 years’ experience including management of heritage trees within Vincent as well as at Government House and Perth Zoo.
• Helen Ensikat – Vincent resident with experience in biodiversity and conservation including ecosystem management and attractions and tourism responsibilities.
• Joshua Caronvale –Aboriginal Studies high school teacher and coordinator of the Aboriginal Excellence Program. A strong supporter of educational and cultural aspirations of the Aboriginal community.
• John Viska – Vincent Resident for over 45 years with a Diploma in Horticulture and co-author of the 2003 Hyde Park Conservation Plan. Extensive knowledge of the history and heritage of Hyde Park.
• Sheree Morrison – Experience in various local government and state heritage roles focusing on the identification, protection and conservation of heritage places.
• Tom Lushey – Vincent resident and qualified horticulturist with experience in quarantine and biosecurity and has a passion for visiting parks and gardens around the world.
• Samantha Torrens – Vincent resident for almost 30 years and an avid Hyde Park advocate who values protection of the environment and the management of the park future generations.

The Reference Group held its inaugural meeting on 17 April and attended a site visit at Hyde Park on 7 May.

The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development has put all PSHB treatment works within Hyde Park on hold, but it is anticipated that preparation for removal of infested trees will continue. 

The reference group is focused on restoring and increasing tree canopy as well as exploring opportunities that the tree removals present, including consideration of the pre-colonial history of the park.

For more information, visit our PSHB page.

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