The surrounding garden beds were recently revitalised through the Brush with Kindness project by the Hunter Chapter of Habitat for Humanity.

The project looks at helping homeowners with painting, landscaping and minor repair services so they can continue to live in safe, friendly homes for years to come.

Of the 200 planted, 40 have been stolen, including 20 lilly pillys that were to form a hedge in front of the centre.

A few days after being planted the lilly pillys were pulled up.

Thieves returned periodically over the next week and helped themselves to more.

The incident has disappointed the volunteer group.

Habitat for Humanity Hunter Chapter chairwoman Melissa Matchett said it took them four hours to dig up and replant the areas.

"It's sad when you try to do something nice for the community and then something like this happens," she said.

Project manager John Link said he was frustrated by the loss of the plants but it would not stop the group.

"We can't afford to let it dampen our enthusiasm."

They are asking that whoever stole the plants return them to the Jesmond Community Centre, no questions asked.