Wind on Thursday afternoon caused a large oak tree to fall partially over a Goulburn district home.
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Goulburn’s State Emergency Service personnel were alerted to the job, some 2.5km down Currawang Road, off the Braidwood Road, at about 4.30pm.
Unit controller Daryl Skinner said it was fortunate no one was home at the time and that the tree didn’t cause more damage.
He said the old oak tree, which stood some 27 metres high, exhibited rot around the base but wind, which was not “overly strong” at the time, caused it to split and run up its length, toppling it onto the stone house.
Some seven personnel worked until 11.30pm, clearing branches from the roof and assessing damage.
“All the damage was over the eaves, particularly the corners of two alcoves, so tarping of the roof was not necessary,” Mr Skinner said.
“Three quarters of the tree was on the house so we took it all down. The damage to the tiles was minimal compared to the size of the tree. It was quite lucky, considering its weight.”
The owner was travelling home from Sydney at the time. Another person alerted the SES to the damage.
The SES was also alerted to fallen trees further out on the Braidwood Road. However the council attended to these.
Meantime, the SES is taking part in an emergency services day at Bunnings in Hume Street on Saturday, January 20. The day, which the Rural Fire Service will also attend, is aimed at educating the community on preparation for and resilience during fire, storms and other emergencies.
Mr Skinner said information would be handed out, reminding people to clear gutters and check roof stability, as well as flood preparation. Information about welfare agency support during emergencies will also be available.
A sausage sizzle will be available, with proceeds split between the emergency services.
In other news, RFS Southern Tablelands zone manager Peter Alley said despite extensive lightning throughout Goulburn and district on Friday night, crews only attended two small outbreaks – one at Kangiara and another at Wee Jasper.