While tree pruning around powerlines is essential to enable safety clearance distances to be maintained, surely the aesthetic and heritage values of trees should also be considered.

This issue seems to be rather frequent in the Highlands, with four old Merrigang Street trees left stumped after they were met with blades in 2013. The public outcry in response to the rootless decision to axe these mature trees was significant, with residents leaving signs on the grand trees asking council to spare them.

Trees are at the heart of our community and for companies such as Endeavour Energy, they seem to have barked up the wrong tree.

The dedication and passion residents show to our unique trees needs an applause, especially as the importance of trees to our survival and the survival of many animals, is still as integral as ever.

With the threat of deforestation to many of our country's green areas, it is even more important that as a local community, we do all what we can to root for the big green shrubs to remain planted and healthy in our area.

This includes standing up to the axe and giving a voice to the trees which provide us with shade, picnic areas and picturesque backdrops in photos, paintings and as you look out the window during your morning or afternoon cuppa.

We shouldn't forget the birds, possums and other animals which rely on big trees to shape their home.

Most importantly, trees play a significant role in our world by supporting biodiversity, continuing to produce clean oxygen, controlling noise pollution, providing food, medicine, shelter, warmth and they act as natural air conditioners by giving shade and cooling the air.

In return for their contreebution, maybe we should step up, stand up and root for the trees.