Vandalism Targets Tony Abbott Memorial Tree

A tree honoring former Prime Minister Tony Abbott has been vandalized twice within two weeks, prompting the Blue Mountains City Council to install CCTV cameras for added security. The tree was planted on August 4 at the Corridor of Oaks, a memorial garden established in 1935 where every Australian prime minister has planted a tree. Mayor Mark Greenhill expressed disappointment over the repeated vandalism and emphasized that the park tradition should transcend politics. Abbott remarked on his honor to participate in the ceremony, while local leaders, including Labor MP Susan Templeman, condemned the vandalism regardless of political affiliation. The council has reported both incidents to the police, as they aim to protect the memorial's integrity against future attacks.