UPDATE 25 January 2025: Parks Victoria provided this statement to TWiSK:
“Parks Victoria is aware of a group of rough sleepers camping in the vicinity of the Ngargee Tree in Albert Park.
“We are working with the council and other agencies to manage the group and encourage them to move on from the area.”
Volunteers who care for the vegetation and environment surrounding the historic Ngargee Tree near St Kilda Junction have been told by Parks Vic to stop visiting the site due to safety fears prompted by a rough sleeping encampment.
The tree is thought to be several hundred years old and is a significant site for indigenous communities. The area has a small pond, seating and areas to promote quiet visitation.
TWiSK has been told that it’s become a no go zone for about 8 weeks following the continued use of the area by rough sleepers.
TWiSK has been reliably informed that police and fire brigade have been called to the camp on numerous occasions. Trees have been damaged, fires started and rubbish strewn around, including an assortment of probably stolen goods. It’s also being used as a toilet.
It appears that this is another situation where a co-ordinated response is required but the wheels are yet to turn as the situation escalates.
