Gardens plant the seed for education

Timber has a fascinating history in Queensland and soon a trail of 75 large native trees planted along Lagoon Street of the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens, will share the story to future generations.

Parks and Environment portfolio councillor Theresa Morgan said the $1000 Timber Trees Arboretum would create an impressive entrance to the Gardens for pedestrians and cyclists from West Mackay as well as educational opportunities for visitors and locals.

“The trees will provide a lot more shade making it an ideal setting for exercising, relaxing and picnics.”

To make room for the new trees, Mackay Regional Council will begin removing the 11 existing trees along Lagoon Street this week.

Curator of the Botanic Gardens, Dale Arvidsson said the existing trees were classed as “non-natives” and considered a “weed species” by local and State Governments.

“Most of the trees that we are removing are listed in the recently published “Weeds of the Mackay Whitsunday Region” by Mackay Regional Pest Management Group.”

Mr Arvidsson said the Timber Trees reflected two important roles of the Botanic Gardens – conservation and education.

“96% of the new trees are native to the Mackay and Whitsunday regions.”

“The stunning rows of trees will provide an important link to our forestry past, and into the future as a sustainable industry.”

Botanic Gardens staff and the Friends of the Gardens invite the community to help plant the 75 specimen trees at working bees to be held in June 14 this year.

The trees which will include a mix of species such as of Hoop Pine, Kauri Pine, Eucalypts and She Oaks will be approximately 2-3 years of age when planted.

Mr Arvidsson said while some species will reach significant heights within 10-15 years, other timber trees can take 25-45 years to reach their full height.

Cr Morgan said plans were also in place to install interpretive and directional signage to enhance visitor’s experience of the Timber Tree Arboretum.

For further information contact the Mackay Regional Botanic Gardens on 4952 7300 or email botanic@mackay.qld.gov.au.


 

Contact: Mackay Regional Council

Phone: 1300 MACKAY (622 529)

Email: