Tree blocks road for five days

THE Shire of Yarra Ranges had to call in a 50-tonne crane last week to remove a massive tree that had fallen across Kallista-Emerald Road in The Patch.
The tree fell on Thursday, 17 November blocking Kallista-Emerald and Georges Roads for five days before the council could get the heavy equipment required to remove it.
Nearby resident Malcolm Rowley said when the huge tree fell it knocked down five Cyprus trees in his yard.
Mr Rowley said the tree also caused some damage to his garage and driveway.
He said the council had been fantastic in organising the tree’s removal.
Shire manager of communications James Martin said removing the tree was a huge logistical exercise as the council had to call several heavy machines including a 50-tonne crane, chipper, bobcat, and three tip trucks to clear away the tree.
Mr Martin said the shire traffic control officers also helped in redirecting drivers who were travelling down Kallista-Emerald Road.
The operation took a day to complete and the road was back in use on Tuesday, 22 November.