Donate a tree
Give a Tree, Grow a Future - Branch Out – Donate, Plant, Thrive!
Council is inviting you to take part in a meaningful community initiative to grow and protect Wingecarribee’s tree canopy. Through our Tree Donation Initiative, you can contribute directly to the greening of our Shire, help increase our tree canopy, creating a healthier, more beautiful environment for generations to come.
Our Tree Donation Initiative has been developed to support and encourage community participation. Whether you're honouring a loved one, celebrating a milestone, or simply passionate about our environment, your tree donation will make a difference.
There are three options available for tree donation:
- Celebration Tree
What is a Celebration Tree?
A Celebration tree donation is a tree donated to celebrate a significant event or occasion such as:
- Birth of a child
- Passing of a loved one
- Anniversary event
- Other Special occasion or significant date
Can I donate a memorial tree?
Yes. But this separate to our tree donation initiative.
Please click the button below to request planting a memorial tree.
Public Memorial Request Application
2. Tree Planting
Can I donate a tree to plant in my community?
Yes. You can make a tree donation request and have it planted in your community.
You will need to complete the request form and pay the tree donation fee and we will arrange to have the tree planted in your community. Click the button below to submit your tree donation request form.
Tree Donation Request
What locations can I request my donated tree be planted?
You can request the following locations to plant your donated tree.
- Street tree
- Local park or reserve
Can I donate some money or trees to Council?
Yes. You do not have to request the location for planting. You can choose to donate money or trees and request that Council decide on what location they will be planted.
Please complete the below form to donate a tree(s)
Make a tree donation request
Complete the request form and, if approved, pay the tree donation fee. We’ll then arrange for a tree to be planted in your community.
Click the button below to submit your tree donation request.
Tree Donation Request
Donated Trees
Find details below on trees donated as part of this tree donation initiative.
Tree Donation, Bundanoon Oval
Planted 27 August 2026 at Bundanoon Oval, Bundanoon
The first tree donated as part of this initiative was a Crab Apple ‘Royal Raindrops’, planted as a special dedication to Margaret and Derek Hart.
Margaret and Derek had a holiday home in Bundanoon for 40 years and were active members of the local community, enjoying the Garden Ramble, local arts and many other events.
Both passed away in 2025. Their family chose a Crab Apple tree as a lasting tribute, reflecting the name of their much-loved Bundanoon cottage, Crab Apple Cottage.
The tree will grow as a living reminder of Margaret and Derek and their special connection to Bundanoon.
Kathy West, Marianne Marsden and Sue Salinas at tree planting at Bundanoon Oval
Tree Donations FAQs
What is tree donation?
A tree donation is an opportunity for residents, community groups and organisations to contribute to increasing tree canopy across Wingecarribee Shire by funding or supplying a suitable tree for planting on Council-managed land.
Donated trees may be considered for planting in streets, parks, reserves or other suitable Council-managed locations.
Can I choose where my donated tree is planted?
You can nominate a preferred location. However, Council will make the final planting location decision.
Each location must be assessed for suitability, including available space, pedestrian and vehicle access, overhead and underground infrastructure, existing trees, future works and the long-term growing requirements of the tree.
Can I choose the type of tree (tree species)?
You may nominate a preferred species. However, Council will make the final decision of the most appropriate species for the location.
Species selection will consider Council's Urban Tree Management Strategy, local landscape character, available growing space, climate resilience, biodiversity, infrastructure and the tree's expected mature size. Council's current policy promotes the right tree in the right place and increased species diversity.
Can I donate my own tree?
Council may accept suitable trees for planting on Council-managed land. The tree must meet Council's requirements for species, health, quality and suitability for the proposed location.
Council may decline a tree where it is unsuitable for planting, is in poor condition, presents a biosecurity concern or is not appropriate for the proposed location.
Can I bring my own tree and plant it on Council land?
No. Tree planting on Council-managed land requires Council consent. Planting locations and species must first be assessed and approved by Council.
Can I plant a memorial tree for someone?
Yes. Residents may request a memorial tree, which will be considered in accordance with Council’s Public Memorials policy.
More information:
Can I have a plaque or memorial placed next to the tree?
Any memorial or plaque would require separate Council consideration and approval in accordance with Council’s Public Memorials policy.
Who pays for planting the donated tree?
Council will absorb the cost of planting the tree where the tree is supplied, otherwise the cost will be as per the Council’s fees and charges.
Who looks after the donated tree after it is planted?
Council's current process requires the property owner to agree to water the tree during its establishment period, with a minimum establishment period of six months.
Can I prune or maintain my donated tree?
No. Once planted on Council-managed land, the tree is a Council asset. Tree pruning and other maintenance works must be authorised by Council and undertaken in accordance with Council's tree management requirements. Contact Council to lodge a customer request.
You can submit a request online here to notify Council that your donated tree requires maintenance.
Can I request a particular location because it has sentimental significance?
You can nominate a preferred location and explain its significance. Council will consider the request but cannot guarantee the nominated location.
What happens if my donated tree dies?
Council will assess the circumstances and determine whether replacement is appropriate. Council does not guarantee the longevity of a donated tree, as trees can be affected by drought, extreme weather, pests, disease, vandalism and other factors outside Council's control.
What happens if the tree becomes unsafe?
Public safety takes priority. If a donated tree develops a significant structural defect, becomes hazardous or otherwise requires removal, Council may undertake the necessary works, including removal where required.
Can Council refuse a tree donation?
Submitting a tree donation
Yes. Council may decline a proposed donation where the tree, species or proposed location is not considered suitable.
When will my tree be planted?
Planting will be scheduled by Council according to the availability of suitable planting locations, appropriate tree stock, seasonal planting conditions and Council's tree planting program.
Will my name be recorded as the donor?
Council will maintain a tree donation register recording details such as the tree species, planting location and date of planting with donor recognition and reasons recorded for public viewing.
Can businesses or community organisations donate trees?
Yes. Tree donations can be made by individuals, businesses, community groups and organisations.
Why does Council need to approve the tree and location?
A tree planted in the wrong location can create long-term conflicts with footpaths, roads, buildings, utilities and other infrastructure. Council therefore assesses each proposed planting to ensure the tree can establish and grow to maturity while contributing positively to the Shire's urban forest.
Can my donation be used somewhere else if my preferred location isn't suitable?
Yes. Where the nominated location cannot accommodate a suitable tree, Council may identify an alternative suitable location within the Shire.
What does your donation mean
Your donation helps grow Wingecarribee's urban forest.
Every suitable tree planted contributes to increasing canopy, improving streetscapes, providing habitat and creating cooler, more resilient communities. Council will work with donors to identify suitable planting opportunities while ensuring each tree is the right species for the right location and can be successfully established and managed into the future.