Sherwood marked a milestone as locals gathered to celebrate the 100-year anniversary of the Sherwood Arboretum, Brisbane’s only native tree botanic garden.
Historical Roots Celebrated
The Sherwood Arboretum, officially opened on 21 March 1925, commemorated its centenary with a series of celebrations held over the past week. Established on World Forestry Day, the 15-hectare site began with the planting of 72 Queensland Kauri Pines and has become a heritage-listed landmark dedicated to Australian native trees.
Originally used for growing bananas, cotton, and sugarcane, the Arboretum evolved into one of Brisbane’s most significant green spaces and remains the city’s only dedicated arboretum.
Centenary Picnic Brings Community Together
The Sherwood Arboretum Centenary Picnic took place on Sunday, 23 March 2025, from 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m., drawing families, long-time residents, and visitors. Attendees brought picnic rugs and enjoyed live music, wildlife displays, vintage car exhibitions, and giant lawn games. Children engaged in nature-based activities, while guided walks and archery added to the day’s festivities.
Public were encouraged to arrive by public transport or active travel, with no vehicle parking available onsite. Despite recent weather conditions caused by Cyclone Alfred, the celebrations proceeded as planned.
Tree Plantings Honour a Century of Growth
Ahead of Sunday’s event, centenary commemorations included official ceremonies and tree plantings. City official Adrian Schrinner joined community representatives and the Friends of Sherwood Arboretum in planting two Black Kauri trees — one of three Queensland-native Kauri species — to mark the milestone.
Several other trees were added to the new Arbor Walk, a centenary project developed by Brisbane Botanic Gardens to enhance the site’s entry pathway.
Environmental Legacy Maintained
The Arboretum now features more than 1,350 trees representing around 250 native Australian species. It is home to over 124 known bird species, including ducks, owls, and parrots, alongside gliders and bats. In recent years, BCC added nesting boxes, a nature-inspired playground beneath the site’s fig trees, and new signage to label native flora.
According to Mr Schrinner, the Arboretum remains one of the city’s most important conservation areas, thanks in part to contributions by local school students and community volunteers.
Generations Joined the Celebration
Guests included students from Sherwood and Graceville State Schools and St Aidan’s Anglican Girls’ School, along with residents who travelled from as far as Tasmania. Local city officials and civic leaders attended, including Ms Tracy Davis, Ms Nicole Johnston, and Ms Penny Wolff.
The event highlighted the Arboretum’s role as a place for generations of families to relax, exercise and connect with nature.
Looking Forward
BCC reaffirmed its commitment to preserving Sherwood Arboretum for future generations. Local leaders acknowledged the vision of those who established the site in 1925 and praised the community’s ongoing dedication to its care and protection.
Published 25-Mar-2025