DEATH OF A GIANT!

[Sorry for the cliche!]  Yesterday morning we awake to the sound of a circular saw close by.  Lumberjacks [aka tree loppers] were attacking the giant eucalyptus in the grounds of the apartments next door.  I was tempted to rush off and tie myself to its trunk, but I decided against introducing more drama. The tree was a true giant, over 30m/110ft high and we have watched it grow in the 40+ years we have lived next to it . We have wondered though, during the fierce summer storms, whether it might fall, and if it fell, a house down the hill would be right in its path.  And as well, eucalyptus have the habit of self pruning: branches break off. 

The lumberjack -wearing a safety harness climbed like a chimpanzee to the top. Branches as they fell were expertly belayed with ropes.  A muncher truck stood ready to chomp up everything that fell. When they came to the main trunk each bit hit the ground with an almighty thump.  Then by 2pm it had all been munched up. All that is left is the mighty stump.  The end of a century old giant. 
The lumberjack pointed out the hollow trunk; indication that it was ready to fall. I  accept that even giants have a finite lifespan. but will miss it. 
The extra shot is out of focus, but I post it to show you how high were the branches.