Read: Sherwood Arboretum: A Look Back at Brisbane’s Living Heritage

A Century of Growth and Conservation

Founded on 21 March 1925, Sherwood Arboretum was designed to preserve Australian native trees at a time when much of Brisbane’s natural landscape was being reshaped by urban expansion. The first trees planted—72 Queensland kauri pines—lined what is now known as Sir Matthew Nathan Avenue, named after the Queensland Governor at the time. These towering trees remain a defining feature of the arboretum today.

The project brought together some of Queensland’s most influential figures of the era. Among them was William Jolly, Brisbane’s first mayor, alongside Archbishop James Duhig, Romeo Lahey, a leading conservationist, and W.D. Francis, a rainforest expert. Their shared vision helped create what would become one of Brisbane’s most significant botanical reserves.

Sherwood Arboretum’s importance was officially recognised in 2007, when it was listed on the Queensland Heritage Register. This ensured that its collection of over 1,100 trees, representing 250 species, would continue to be protected for future generations.

More Than Just Trees: A Community Space

Beyond its scientific and historical significance, Sherwood Arboretum has long been a place for community gatherings, family outings, and quiet escapes into nature. Its facilities include walking tracks, picnic areas, barbecues, and a river boardwalk, making it a well-loved spot for locals.

Recent upgrades have made it even more inviting. A nature-inspired playground, nestled under large fig trees, has given children a space to explore while learning about native flora. Interpretive signs now guide visitors through different tree collections, showcasing highlights like the Rainforest, Fig Tree Grove, and Bottle Tree Knoll.

Centenary Celebrations on 23 March

To mark 100 years of Sherwood Arboretum, Brisbane residents are invited to a centenary picnic on Sunday, 23 March. The event will run from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. and feature a historical photographic display, along with live music from the Mango Jam Big Band, bringing the sounds of the 1920s and 1930s back to the park.

Ahead of the picnic, a special tree planting ceremony will take place on Friday, 21 March. Lord Mayor Adrian Schrinner will join local students in planting trees along the Arbor Walk, continuing the arboretum’s legacy as a site for conservation and learning.

For those eager to explore the space, a free guided tree walk will be held at 9:30 a.m. on Sunday, 23 February. Bookings can be made through Eventbrite or by calling the Brisbane City Council’s Call Centre at 3403 8888.

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Looking to the Future

Sherwood Arboretum’s journey over the past century reflects Brisbane’s deepening commitment to protecting native plant species. Thanks to the continued advocacy of Friends of Sherwood Arboretum (FOSA), the park remains a treasured green space for both scientific study and public enjoyment.

Published 12-February-2025

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