Tree of the Month

Each month we showcase an iconic or loved tree in Holdfast Bay. The tree of the month aims to increase the awareness of the value of trees in the City of Holdfast Bay, highlighting the important role trees play in our city such as shade, cooling, clean air, fauna habitat, wellbeing and connection to nature.

Species: Corymbia maculata (spotted gum)
Family: Myrtaceae
Origin: Qld, NSW, Vic
Flowering time: Winter, spring
Flower colour: White
Purpose: Habitat, ornamental
Canopy cover (approximate shade provided): more than 15 metres
Approximate age: 50 years old
Estimated amenity value: $92,435

Among all the trees that are scattered among Paringa Park Reserve at Somerton Park, one stands out from the rest.

Not only is it frequented by birds using the nesting hollow but it also bears a medallion which identifies it as our Tree of the Month for April.

The spotted gum tree was heavily pruned in 2023 in response to severe ring bark caused by galahs.

The nesting hollow was then carved out last year by Council’s Open Space team, which turned the once-dying tree into a habitat tree, specifically for medium sized parrots like lorikeets and rosellas.

A year later, the tree has resprouted and is flourishing with new life, much to the delight of Ian and Zac from the Open Space team who have been keeping a close eye on it.

With care and maintenance, after 20 years, this tree could potentially:

• offset 19,086 kilometres worth of CO2 emitted from the average petrol-powered passenger vehicles
• absorb enough stormwater to fill 919 bathtubs
• remove an amount of pollution from the air – in gaseous and particulate form – equivalent in weight to 119 smartphones

Is there a tree that you love or that you think deserves recognition in the City of Holdfast Bay? Take the time to nominate it by completing the form below.