Before a tree can be included in the register, it must meet our specific assessment and classification criteria focused on tree attributes. The criteria are divided into five (5) primary categories:
1. Exceptional visual or aesthetic Importance
2. Botanic or scientific significance
3. Significant ecological value
4. Historical and commemorative significance
5. Social significance
Each criterion contains detailed assessment standards to clarify the evaluation process and ensure a consistent and analytical approach for the Shire and its experts when assessing nominated trees.
Each nomination is assessed by Council’s Arborist based on the nominated standards..
For a tree to be considered for listing, it needs to meet any of the standards noted within no less than three (3) of the selection criteria, particularly if the primary reason is its visual or aesthetic appeal. The criteria are based on a qualitative assessment of a tree's value and significance, minimising subjectivity and ensuring a strong, defensible selection process.
Criteria 1 - Exceptional Visual or Aesthetic Importance
Standards
a. Trees notable for their height, trunk diameter, or canopy spread.
b. Trees situated in highly visible or significant locations.
c. Trees that significantly enhance the landscape they inhabit, including streetscapes, parks, gardens, or natural settings.
d. Trees displaying unique growth patterns or physical characteristics, including distinctive pruning styles.
e. Trees that represent a significant and valued aesthetic or landscape design.
A cluster or linear grouping of three (3) or more mature trees that are:
Located within a defined landscape setting (e.g. park, streetscape, avenue, or heritage site), and
Visually or ecologically connected as part of a broader landscape feature, and
Individually or collectively meet one or more of the following criteria:
Contribute significantly to the character or identity of a place
Have cultural, heritage, or historical importance
Provide notable environmental, ecological, or biodiversity value
Criteria 2 - Botanic or Scientific Significance
Standards
a. Trees that are rare or hold significant genetic value, offering valuable propagation stock. This includes specimens that are notably resistant to disease, withstand climatic extremes, or have a distinct growth form.
b. Trees likely to contribute to the broader understanding of natural or cultural history, serving as research sites, teaching locations, type localities, or benchmark sites.
Criteria 3 - Significant Ecological Value
Standards
a. Trees that are rare, threatened, or locally uncommon species or part of an ecological community.
b. Indigenous remnant trees that existed before the surrounding area was developed.
c. Trees that play a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of an ecological community, such as serving as a seed source or providing specialised habitat.
d. Remnant specimens that, now limited in range or abundance, highlight the species' former extent or range limits.
e. Trees that offer critical habitat for rare, threatened, or locally uncommon native species.
Criteria 4 - Historical or Commemorative Significance
Standards
a. Trees linked to events of public significance or important historical and commemorative moments.
b. Trees associated with a heritage-listed site, representing the historic era of that location or age-related health issues.
c. Trees that are notably old or vulnerable to development issues.
d. Trees connected to a significant person or group of people.
When a tree is nominated under the historical category, the application must be supported with appropriate evidence.
Criteria 5 - Social Significance
Standards
a. Trees that hold significant value within the community, symbolising cultural traditions, religious practices, and social connections. Trees that have been planted to mark important milestones, celebrate heritage, or provide gathering spaces for communal activities. Additionally, trees that have served a practical purpose by producing food, such as fruit and nut-bearing species, which contribute to local sustainability and community sharing initiatives.
b. Trees that are valued by the local community and contribute significantly to a community’s sense of identity and place.
Our criteria for listing trees are grounded in a qualitative assessment of their significance and value. This approach reduces subjectivity and ensures a robust, defensible selection process.