Around 80 of the 500 tube stock were ripped from the ground and had the support stakes and protective caging damaged.

Local Valla Beach couple Les and Deb McMahon were disgusted to find the reserve in such a state and took it upon themselves to begin the clean-up process.

“We worked for about three hours on Sunday and Monday evenings to pick up the mess, replace tree guards and hammer back in the tree stakes,” Les told the Guardian.

“We managed to replace guards on 50 trees that were salvageable. Approximately 30 trees were pulled out or broken off and would need replanting.”

It is understood the incident occurred overnight between 9pm on Saturday and 6pm on Sunday, around two weeks ago – when it was reported to the police.

“I also emailed council the same evening and rang on Monday morning to ensure they received the report,” Les said.

“We left the tree guards and stakes in piles for council to handle.”

Planted trees included Coastal wattle, three vein laurel, tuckeroos, she oaks and beach Birdseye to promote growth and sustainability along the waterfront and protect the riverbank. There was caging installed to prevent wallaby damage.

“They were planted by a bush regenerator contractor engaged by council,” council’s Assistant General Manager - Engineering Services Paul Gallagher said.

“The project is part of the riparian restoration project commissioned by council under the environmental levy.

“Council has ordered new tube stock and programmed to replant – after the matter was reported to council.”

Mr Gallagher reminds locals that there is a reward offered of up to $5000 for information leading to a conviction relating to vandalism.