On Sunday 17 April 2022, pruning works will be undertaken by Metro Trains Melbourne (MTM) on the large River Red Gum near Alphington Station, and all trees within the station precinct, to ensure a safe clearance area between branches and railway overhead assets.

This regular maintenance work is required to comply with Victoria’s Electricity Safety (Electric Line Clearance) Regulations, to reduce the risk of fire, ensure the community is kept safe, and keep Melbourne’s rail passengers moving.

What to expect:

• Pruning works will take place over the weekend of 16 and 17 April 2022. The works will be conducted during daytime hours only.
• Please allow for noise and heavy vehicles using the roads in the area. Where required, traffic management will be put in place.
• Pruning of branches will mostly likely be between 2.5 and 3 metres clear of MTM infrastructure, and will be carried out in accordance with Australian Standard AS 4373-2007 (“Pruning of Amenity Trees”) to ensure the health of the tree is protected during the works.

A Tree of Significance

• The large River Red Gum tree is included on the National Trust of Australia (Victoria) Register of Significant Trees. As such, appropriate authorities have been notified of these works, including The National Trust and The City of Darebin
• MTM understands the amenity value that this tree and those surrounding it provide to the local community and environment.
• These scheduled pruning works are required to keep its branches away from power lines.
• Once completed, pruning should not be required for another two to three years.

Trees and powerlines don’t mix

• The safety of the community is a priority for both MTM and Energy Safe Victoria.
• MTM works to identify and schedule trees and vegetation that require management, to reduce the risk of fire and power supply interruptions to the rail network.
• Energy Safe Victoria administers the Electricity Safety Act and the Electricity Safety (Electric Line Clearance) Regulations. Information on trees and powerline safety is available on the Energy Safe Victoria website: www.esv.vic.gov.au or by calling 03 9203 9700.

Thank you for your understanding as we carry out these safety works.