In late 2025, the City of Casey undertook the necessary removal of infected pine trees along Princes Highway in Berwick to help stop the spread of Giant Pine Scale (GPS), a pest that threatens pine trees and the wider environment. The works took place between Wilson Botanic Park and Lyall Road and were completed in November 2025.
Council understands how strongly the community values trees and green spaces. From the outset, Council committed to restoring the area and re‑establishing a healthy, resilient green corridor once it was safe to do so.
Replanting is underway, with works starting in May 2026. Council is replacing every tree removed, with 174 new trees to be planted, along with additional understorey and mid‑level vegetation to improve biodiversity, shade and overall amenity. Planting begun with 12 feature ‘hero’ trees, with remaining trees and vegetation to be planted progressively.
Reflecting community feedback, the new plantings include a mix of indigenous and carefully selected exotic species to support long‑term canopy growth and seasonal interest. Landscaping improvements will also enhance how people use and enjoy the area, including new seating along the shared path.
- Frequently Asked Questions
What is Giant Pine Scale (GPS)?
GPS is a tiny insect that feeds on pine trees and can affect firs and spruces. It leaves a white, waxy coating on the bark, weakens trees, increases fire risk and can harm Victoria’s timber industry.
Why did Council remove trees in Berwick?
Removing infected pine trees helps stop the pest from spreading. The removal is part of Council’s Giant Pine Scale Management Plan, developed by a pest expert to contain the spread.
Is GPS harmful to people or pets?
No. GPS poses no health risk to people or animals.
Is removing trees the only way to manage the infestation?
Yes. Removing infested trees is currently the most effective way to limit the spread. There are no known predators or effective chemical treatments in Australia.
Is this happening anywhere else in Casey?
Yes. GPS has been found in parts of Narre Warren, Harkaway, Berwick and Wilson Botanic Park. Works began in Berwick in November 2025, with more areas to follow in future years.
Will the trees in Berwick be replaced?
Yes. Council is progressively replacing the trees in 2026 now that it’s safe to do so.
How did Council choose which trees to replant?
Council engaged with key stakeholders and sought community feedback on the types of trees people would like to see replanted. Reflecting this feedback, the replanting includes a mix of native species and carefully selected exotic species to support long-term canopy growth, while adding diversity and seasonal interest.
In the northern section (York Rd West to Berwick Brae), plantings are all native to help create a bird and wildlife habitat corridor, with trees that provide food sources such as nuts, berries, cones and seeds. This will be supported by additional understorey planting to encourage biodiversity.
Overall, the species mix has been selected to provide broad visual appeal and balance community preferences for both native and exotic trees. The design also reflects the established character of Berwick, acknowledging the area’s heritage and significant trees, while creating a landscape that complements the look and feel of the wider Berwick township.
What trees are being planted, and what are the ‘hero’ trees?
Replanting is underway and began with feature ‘hero’ trees - larger, standout trees that help re-establish canopy character early and anchor the landscape as the rest of the corridor fills in.
The hero tree species planted include Cedrus deodara, Ulmus glabra, Ficus macrophylla, Araucaria heterophylla, Quercus ilex, Angophora costata, Corymbia maculata, Platanus acerifolia, Liquidambar styraciflua and Populus nigra.
Alongside these,Council is planting the remaining trees progressively (to replace every tree removed) plus additional understorey and mid-level vegetation to improve shade, biodiversity and overall amenity. Middle and understory planting has also been undertaken.
Why does some areas have fewer trees?
The trees being planted vary significantly in their mature canopy size, ranging from around 6 m x 4 m up to 30 m x 30 m. Some areas are intentionally spaced out to allow room for these canopies to grow and spread over time. While this can create gaps initially, it helps ensure healthy tree growth and will result in a more shaded, balanced canopy as the landscape matures.
What happened to the removed trees?
The removed trees were mulched and safely quarantined for six months to prevent further spread of GPS, and that mulch is now being reused in parks across Casey.
What should I do if I think trees on my property are affected?
Look for white, cotton-like residue on trunks and branches. Report possible cases to Agriculture Victoria or call the Exotic Plant Pest Hotline on 1800 084 881. Do not try to remove or move affected material.
How many trees did Council remove during the first phase of works?
Council removed 174 pine trees infested with GPS during the first stage of works along Princes Hwy, Berwick. Other tree species in the area that are not affected remain. Through our Greening Casey plan, Council is committed to growing and maintaining a thriving urban forest. We do not remove trees unless absolutely necessary, and only in cases where pests or safety concerns demand action. In this instance, our focus is on safeguarding the health of our green spaces and doing our part to contain GPS on land managed by Council.
How has Council been managing GPS over the years?
GPS has been present in Casey since 2015. Initially, there were trials of treatment methods, but these were unsuccessful. We then transitioned to selective tree removal as the main control method. In 2024, due to the increasing spread of GPS, Council engaged an independent forest pathologist/entomologist to develop a comprehensive Giant Pine Scale Management Plan, which we are now implementing.
Where can I learn more?
Visit the Agriculture Victoria website for more information.