Giant Pine Scale management

City of Casey is removing infected pine trees to help stop the spread of Giant Pine Scale, a pest that threatens local pine trees and the environment.

From Monday 10 November 2025, for about three weeks, pine tree removal works will take place along Princes Highway in Berwick, between the entrance to Wilson Botanic Park and Lyall Road.

Council will restore the area and replant trees in May–June 2026, once it’s safe to do so.

Pedestrian and traffic impacts

Pedestrian path access

• Wilson Botanic Park to York Road: the pedestrian path will be closed on weekdays from 7:30 am to 5:30 pm and open outside these hours. Signs will direct pedestrians to Mansfield Street, about 300 m longer than the regular route.
• York Road to Lyall Road: this section may be closed all day for three weeks. A short detour will be available via Anne Street and Kilkieran Place.

Road impacts

• the northern outbound lane of Princes Highway will be closed during work hours from 7:30 am to 5:30 pm for about three weeks
• expect minor delays, but no full traffic stoppages
• access to Wilson Botanic Park, the retirement village and York Road will remain open

We appreciate the community’s understanding as we take action to protect Casey’s urban forest.

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 is Council removing trees?
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 will begin in Berwick this November, with more areas to follow in future years.

Will the trees be replaced?
Yes. Council will replant trees in 2026 once it’s safe to do so.

What will happen to the removed trees?
They will be mulched and quarantined for up to six months before reuse in parks.

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 is Council removing during the first phase of works?
Council will remove 174 pine trees infested with GPS during this first stage of works along Princes Hwy, Berwick. Other tree species in the area that are not affected will 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.