spines ! - eucalyptus bark

Description:

The bark around the base of a large live eucalyptus tree showed a couple of patches of spiny outgrowths. Pic #3 shows the two patches of spines to the far left and right at the base of the tree.

Habitat:

Eucalyptus tree - probably Mountain grey gum ( Eucalyptus cypellocarpa)

Notes:

I am unable to find information on this unusual occurrence but will keep looking...would appreciate any help with this !