A video showing a massive Eucalyptus Regnans tree trunk being transported on a truck has sparked public outrage. The footage was captured in Tasmania's Florentine Valley and features what is believed to be a section of one of the world's tallest trees, standing at an impressive 300 feet.
The tree was cut down from one of Australia's oldest native forests, leading to widespread condemnation.
Bob Brown, a former leader of the Green Party and a long-time conservationist, labeled the act as "globally shameful." In a statement on his website, Brown said,
"This centuries-old natural wonder was alive just days ago. Its felling was publicly subsidized and completely unnecessary. Along with the tree, we've lost the birds, mammals, and other wildlife that called it home. This is despicable official vandalism."
Suzette Weeding, the general manager for conservation and land management at Sustainable Timber Tasmania, defended the action.
She stated that the tree had to be felled for "safety reasons" and that the timber product from the tree was recovered. Sustainable Timber Tasmania is a government-owned enterprise that operates like a private business.
