A rural NSW community has been left reeling after its public Christmas tree was destroyed in a suspected arson attack just weeks out from the holiday.
The decorated tree, installed on Smith Street in Kempsey just last week, was burnt down in a blaze deemed suspicious by police at about 11.15pm yesterday.
Kempsey Shire Council has confirmed it will review CCTV footage and work alongside NSW Police to identify those responsible.
“We are deeply disappointed and saddened for our community and for the council staff who, over many months, worked hard to procure, decorate and install the tree after what has been a challenging year for the shire,” council said in a statement, referencing the floods that have battered the region.
Detective Inspector Mark Rogers said officers are canvassing nearby businesses to determine how the fire began and stressed no possibility is being ruled out.
“It’s obviously very, very sad coming into the festive season for Kempsey to lose a Christmas tree, which is quite disappointing,” he told reporters.
“But we’ll make those inquiries and treat it as suspicious for now, and establish whether or not something has happened.”
Residents expressed their frustration and sadness on social media following the incident.
“Can’t have nice things on the ground these days,” one wrote.
“So sad that some people are bent on destroying a little bit of joy for others,” another said.
“Such a shame, was a beautiful Christmas tree, nicest one we have had,” a third commented.
Mayor Kinne Ring acknowledged the community’s distress after an “immensely tough” year but said the destruction of the tree would not dampen the town’s spirit.
“This doesn’t have to be a negative. We’re still going to have a fantastic Christmas,” she told 9News.
Kempsey Shire Council will remove the remains of the tree over the coming days.
Ring said local businesses and organisations have already contacted her offering to help replace it.
Images: Facebook
