Tending our treasured trees
Preserving our local heritage isn’t limited to the protection of culture, buildings and objects. The Southern Highlands is renowned for our magnificent, centuries-old trees. So, when one of our Shire’s oldest known exotic trees, an English Oak planted in 1890, suffered a serious ‘structural failure’ our Tree Management team jumped into action.
“The community is relieved that such a valued part of our local history will live to see another day,” said Mr Philip Martin, President of the Berrima Residents Association.
Located in Berrima’s Georgian Square, the tree was planted way back 133 years ago by the then Premier of NSW and the Father of Federation, Sir Henry Parkes.
“Remedial pruning was needed initially to make the area safe, which is always our priority,” says Council’s Team Leader Tree Management, Charlene Ferguson. “Our hope is that this Federation Tree will continue to watch over Berrima for generations to come.”
Following further assessments of the tree further pruning will be undertaken to give the grand specimen the best possible chance at recovery.