Earlier this month marked a proud moment for our community when I was honoured to plant two new saplings at Wetherill Park Nature Reserve, grown from the acorns of our iconic Bland's Oak Tree.
The original Bland's Oak, located in Oakdene Park, Carramar, was planted in 1842 by Dr William Bland — a remarkable figure in Australian history who was a convict, surgeon, inventor, politician and advocate for education and reform.
His oak grew to be the largest tree in Australia! Today, the 183-year-old oak remains one of the largest, standing about 13 metres tall with a 30-metre spread, despite splitting in two after a storm in 1941.
In 2018, Bland's Oak Tree was added to the National Register of Significant Trees, cementing its cultural and historical importance.
These young trees, nurtured by our Fairfield Community Nursery from Bland's Oak acorns collected back in 2019, will carry on the legacy of one of Sydney's most significant trees for hundreds of years to come as these oaks live for about 300 years.
Soon two more saplings will be planted at Cabravale Memorial Park, ensuring this living symbol continues to thrive in our city.
Continuing in this spirit of growth and renewal, please join us in a community planting of native plants on National Tree Day next month in Bossley Park, from 9am to noon on 27 July.
Last year 155 community members joined in and I invite residents of all ages to come this year and make it even bigger. Help make a lasting impact for our environment and enjoy a sausage sizzle lunch on us.
To register your place for National Tree Day, visit https://treeday.planetark.org/site/10031374.
