by Priya Mohandoss
From the nine finalists, this year’s National Trust Victorian Tree of the Year recipient was Kingston’s 16 metre tall Algerian Oak (Quercus canariensis). Yet despite its victory, this notable tree is at risk of being felled due to the Western Renewables Link Project, with the works scheduled to start towards the end of 2026.
If this goes to plan, areas that already have reputable ecosystem networks, such as Birches Creek Nature Reserve, would also be threatened. At present, the creek, an offshoot of the Lodden River, hosts platypus, native species of frogs as well as other forms of wildlife and vegetation. Any change resulting from the works would be dire in terms of diet and habitat for the diverse flora and fauna that are so important to the ecology of the area.
While this competition provides a tribute to significant trees throughout Victoria, it also exposes what effected communities are facing with the livelihood of trees in their locality, such as with the case of the Algerian Oak. However the National Trust has no legal right to address these matters.
“Tree protection in Victoria has been inconsistent for a long time and we hope that by recognising some of the best examples around us, the community will help to value and protect them,” said Justin Buckley, Executive Manager for Gardens and Landscapes, National Trust.
“Winning the title of National Trust Tree of the Year is a great honour — it recognises both this magnificent old tree and our community’s commitment to protecting it” said Jeremy Harper, Kingston resident and nominator.
Tasmanian Blue Gum
Of the other entrants, the Tasmanian Blue Gum (Eucalyptus globulus ssp. globulus), also known as the “Tree of Knowledge”, located at Federation University in Mt Helen, a southern suburb of Ballarat, was the runner up.
In Boroondara, the two species of trees, the African Sumac tree (Rhus aff.viminalis) in Camberwell and the Smooth Barked Apple Myrtle tree (Angophora costata) in Ashburton, were placed fourth and sixth respectively.
Overall, regardless of their ranking, each tree was valued as being one of the finest in Victoria, worthy of being honoured, especially within their own communities.