trees Archives - Over The Walter Taylor Bridge

Corinda Residents Respond to Approved Removal of Century-Old Street Tree at Donaldson Street

An approved application to remove a roughly 100-year-old tree outside 91 Donaldson Street, Corinda, has drawn responses from local residents, with the post drawing views on both sides.

Read: PTSD Advocate from Corinda Featured Among Queensland’s 2026 Award Nominees

A group of Donaldson Street neighbours raised the matter in a post to a Facebook group, saying the tree had been part of the street’s character for decades and provided canopy, shade and cooling to the neighbourhood. They say the previous owner of the property lived alongside the tree for more than 70 years.

According to the post, it was widely understood and disclosed during the recent sale of the property that the tree formed part of the streetscape and was unlikely to be approved for removal. The neighbours say the new owners subsequently sought the tree’s removal. The post states the proposed removal appears to be linked to improving the property’s rental potential.

The neighbours are calling on residents to write to Brisbane’s local officials and Cr Nicole Johnston requesting the tree be retained and any proposed removal be carefully reviewed.

The post drew responses on both sides. Some residents expressed support for keeping the tree. “Trees are so important in our lives,” wrote one commenter who said they grew up in the area. Others raised concerns about the species, citing falling branches, vehicle damage, and the volume of green waste it produces. One commenter noted the tree blocks the driveway to the property, describing the situation as “a tough one.”

Donaldson Street — Photo credit: Google Street View

Several residents also cautioned against assuming the approval was made without proper grounds. “Usually council is very reasonable regarding removing trees,” one wrote, suggesting that an approval typically reflects an assessment of health or safety risk, and noting that those opposed to removal might consider whether they would be prepared to accept liability for future damage.

What the Local Laws Say

Street trees in Brisbane are protected under the Natural Assets Local Law 2003. Residents require permission before pruning, removing or otherwise interfering with a Council tree, including works affecting a tree’s root system.

When a removal is sought, Brisbane conducts an inspection through a qualified arborist, who assesses the tree and recommends a course of action in line with Council’s guidelines. According to Council’s website, grounds that may support a removal assessment include trees posing an imminent risk to public or private property, diseased or dead trees, fallen trees, broken branches, and obstructions to footpaths, roads or traffic sightlines.

Brisbane’s guidelines also set out what does not constitute grounds for removal or maintenance works. These include leaf, fruit, seed or flower drop; shading of private swimming pools or solar panels where trees predate the installation; improvement of views from private property; and fence-line pruning.

Read: Street Spotlight: Dewar Terrace, Corinda

Following an assessment, possible outcomes include no action, pruning, health management, or removal and replacement planting. Where a tree is removed, Council replants within the local area where the site is suitable, though not necessarily the same species.

Residents can submit a tree maintenance or removal assessment request online via the BCC website or by calling Council on 07 3403 8888.

Published 11-March-2026

Graceville Reigns Supreme in Brisbane’s Shady Suburbs

A recent study has confirmed what locals have long known: Graceville boasts some of the shadiest streets in the city, with Honour Avenue, Bell Terrace and Laurel Avenue ranking highly in research conducted by the University of Southern Queensland.

The study by radiation scientist Nathan Downs assessed footpath shade across ten Brisbane suburbs to determine ultraviolet radiation exposure. Downs, who has spent over two decades researching Queensland’s UV index, highlighted the importance of shade in a state with the world’s highest skin cancer rates.

The research identified 48 tree species across 210 sites, with camphor laurel, Indian beech and golden penda among those providing the most shade. While fig species offer excellent canopy cover, their invasive roots pose a risk to infrastructure. Downs emphasised the significance of mature trees in creating well-shaded streets, stating that the ideal time to plant a tree was “30 years ago, with today being the second-best option.”

Graceville’s abundance of established trees, particularly along Honour Avenue with its century-old camphor laurels, contributes significantly to its cool and inviting atmosphere. This green canopy provides respite from the Queensland sun and enhances the suburb’s aesthetic appeal, particularly during jacaranda season.

However, research from the University of Queensland has revealed a disparity in shade provision across Brisbane. A Dorina Pojani and Sean Patton study found that wealthier suburbs have more tree cover than lower-income areas. This trend, observed in urban environments globally, raises concerns about equity and accessibility. Pojani noted the irony of this situation, as residents in less affluent suburbs often rely more on public transport and, therefore, need greater access to shade.

The researchers stressed the multifaceted benefits of trees, including air purification, water circulation, and wildlife corridors. They also highlighted the role of street trees in providing shade for pedestrians and improving the accessibility of public transport, particularly bus stops, which can be highly uncomfortable in Brisbane’s summer heat.

Brisbane City Council’s research supports this finding, with residents calling for increased shade at bus stops. While the reasons behind the shade discrepancies are still being investigated, Pojani suggests that residents of wealthier suburbs may have more time and resources to advocate for tree planting.

Brisbane City Council reports that 79 percent of residents live in the suburbs with over 20 percent tree cover. The council planted over 11,000 street trees in the last financial year and plans to target areas with lower tree cover in future planting initiatives. Residents can also request trees to be planted on their verge through the council.

Ultimately, as Downs aptly summarises, a liveable city is a city with ample shade. With its lush tree canopy and commitment to preserving its green spaces, Graceville is a prime example for other suburbs to emulate.

Published Date 30-October-2024

New Nature Play Area Coming to Sherwood Arboretum

As Sherwood Arboretum approaches its centenary in March 2025, a series of upgrades are underway to enhance this beloved green space.

Read: Oxley Creek Common To Host Massive Tree Planting Event

The improvements will focus on completing a new nature play area, installing interpretive signage, and refurbishing the iconic Kauri Pine Avenue.

Cr Nicole Johnston recently announced a significant $590,000 investment from Council for these enhancements. This funding will be used to finish the new nature play area, produce and install interpretive signage, and undertake work on the Kauri Pine Ave. Additionally, a new shade sail will provide extra coverage for the playground.

Photo credit: Friends of Sherwood Arboretum/Facebook

The centrepiece of these renovations is the playground upgrade, designed to create an enriched and more accessible play environment. Plans include replacing existing decking, installing new equipment and furniture, and adding a second pathway.

The enhanced space will feature sensory and interactive elements that complement the arboretum’s botanical theme, while also ensuring compliance with the Disability Discrimination Act 1992.

Established in 1925 on World Forestry Day, Sherwood Arboretum has grown from a sparse collection of native Australian trees to a diverse 15-hectare haven boasting approximately 1,100 trees across 250 species. Its varied botanical collections include riverine, dry rainforest, dry sclerophyll, and freshwater wetland areas, with the grand avenue of 72 kauri pines serving as its crown jewel.

As the centenary approaches, the Friends of Sherwood Arboretum are gearing up for a busy year of celebrations. The group recently held its annual meeting to elect new executive members, demonstrating the continued community involvement that has been crucial to the arboretum’s success.

The upgrades, expected to be completed by mid-2024, will ensure that the arboretum enters its second century as a revitalised space for relaxation, discovery, and conservation. As part of the Brisbane Botanic Gardens collection, it stands as a testament to the city’s commitment to preserving green spaces and fostering environmental education.

Read: Sherwood Mounts Annual Crusade Against Cane Toads at the Sherwood Arboretum

With these improvements, Sherwood Arboretum is set to continue its dual role as both a serene retreat for visitors and a vital resource for botanical research and education. As it prepares to mark 100 years of growth, the arboretum looks forward to welcoming new generations of nature enthusiasts, ensuring its legacy flourishes for centuries to come.

Published 27-June-2024