29/11/2025
--------- Public Announcement ---------
Unfortunately, the Maritime Pine (Pinus pinaster) which is adjacent to the Tennis Courts - our 28-metre giant - has been identified as needing to be removed after a recent risk assessment by the Shire Arborist.
DRRA received a comprehensive report from the Shire prior to the last ratepayers meeting, outlining the risk associated with the tree and advising of reasons why the removal of the tree needs to take place.
Although the tree appears perfectly healthy above the ground, there is evidence to show that there is significant root plate movement with root heave on the road side.
Over the course of time, it is highly likely that increasing infrastructure around the tree has reduced the potential for root growth and contributed to the instability of the roots. The tree has a considerable lean and would fall in a highly trafficked pedestrian and recreational area. Give the lean and reduced root strength in strong wind it poses an unacceptable risk, so the Shire is left with no option but to remove it.
Members of DRRA have carefully considered the risk assessment report and sought professional opinion. The conclusion was that the methodology applied in the report is common, widely accepted and tested in court within Australia. Two independent arborists were approached for comment and both agreed that there is no viable option but to remove the tree. As this pine is believed to be one of the original Waylen Vineyard trees, like many of you may be, DRRA was saddened by this outcome. However, we recognise that while we all value our tree canopy and the history tied to this pine, nothing lasts forever.
The Darlington History group have expressed an interest in capturing images of the tree before it is removed and are inviting any interested members of the community to share a memory of the pine. This could be through a photo with the tree, an artwork, an illustration, or even a short written reflection.
Anything that captures its presence in your life or in our landscape.
We only have approximately a week before the tree will be removed. If you’d like to contribute a photo, drawing, memory, or short story please email: [email protected]
With permission, these contributions will be uploaded onto a digital archive: an online, community-made tribute that honours the history, cultural significance, and beauty of the pine. This will be accessible by a small curb-mounted plaque with a QR code near the site once the tree is removed. Nothing intrusive — just a simple marker that links to the digital collection, allowing people now and in the future to see the memories we’ve gathered.
Additionally, DRRA is in consultation with the Shire and the tree contractor to ascertain how best to retain some of the wood from the tree to use in an artistic project within the precinct.
