We tend to take trees for granted here in Australia. They are everywhere. Along our streets, all over our parks and in our backyards, but sadly we often forget to look up and admire them.
Luckily, there are some trees that can’t be ignored, and this is because they stand out from the crowd. They are the ‘Cool Trees’, and they are famous for a variety of reasons. They may be huge, or an incredible age, or they may have an unusual shape or structure. Or maybe they have a unique history or background story. Whatever the reason, they need our admiration.
So, next time you’re planning a trip, why not add a Cool Tree to your destination’s Bucket List, and if allowed, give them a hug while you’re there.
Here are four unique and wonderful trees in Qld and NSW to get you started…..
Roma’s Largest Bottle Tree, Qld
Roma’s Largest Bottle Tree (Brachiychiton rupestre) is over 100 years old, has a girth of 9.62m and stands 15m tall. It takes six average size men to reach around its girth. Although fully mature, it’s trunk still grows one centimetre per year.
Find it at: the end of Edwardes Street, Roma QLD 4455
Tenterfield Cork Tree, NSW
Tenterfield Cork Tree (Quercus suber) was brought out from England in a jam jar in 1861 and is now Australia’s largest. Cork Trees are also called Wishing Trees and said to hold magical powers which bring good luck. Although on private property, Tenterfield’s Cork Tree can still be viewed and wishes granted from the other side of the fence.
Find it at: Wood St, Tenterfield NSW 2372
The Tree of Knowledge, QLD
The Tree of Knowledge – (Eucalyptus papuana) In 1891 this old gum tree was the place where shearers met during the Great Shearers Strike, and from which they marched 3000 strong in protest against poor working conditions and low wages. It became a symbol of the future of labour and politics in Australia, and is now preserved forever under the world’s largest wind chime, which makes beautiful musical sounds in the breeze.
This arresting sculpture is suspended above the historic remains of the Tree of Knowledge, whose roots are embedded in the ground below. You can even see its root ball when the lights are on at night.
Find it at: Oak Street, Barcaldine Qld 4725
Old Bottlebutt, NSW
Old Bottlebutt (Corymbia gummifera) is the largest Red Bloodwood tree in the southern hemisphere. This spectacular tree has significant natural heritage value with an estimated age of more than 200 years old. It is one of the largest and most unusual trees of its species, with a recorded girth of more than 16 metres just above its base.
Find it at: Internal Break Rd off Bago Rd, Wauchope NSW 2446
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Visit Queensland – Destination Focus
If your bucket list Aussie adventure is to snorkle the Great Barrier Reef, meet some locals at an historic outback pub, cuddle up close to a furry Aussie icon or explore the bright city lights, then Queensland is the destination for you.
Exploring Scenic Rim: Kalbar, Boonah, and Lake Moogerah
The Scenic Rim Region in Southeast Queensland is the perfect weekend getaway. it covers approx. 4,243sq km and showcases World Heritage Listed rainforests, fertile farmland, hiking trails, lakes, waterfalls, local produce, wineries, craft breweries and charming country towns. There’s heaps to explore so we’ve broken it down for you as a series of Weekend Diary instalments.
Although we planned to visit many country towns, discover dozens of dinosaurs, climb pristine red sandhills to see stunning sunsets and search the parched ground for elusive Opals, we decided our main goal would be to visit as many old, unique and historic outback pubs as we could in the time, buy a beer or two and help these drought affected communities by sharing our love and some money.
Once we took the first Lake Somerset turn off, we discovered why it is so popular. The Spit was pumping with boats, jet skis, wake boarders, picnickers and campers who all seemed to be die hard water sport enthusiasts.
Historic Laidley – Lockyer Valley, Queensland
Patrick St in the town centre has oodles of historic ambience with it’s well preserved old buildings housing antiques, collectibles, tea rooms and cafes.
Visit New South Wales – Destination Focus
NSW is a powerhouse of contrasts, famous for its sparkling coastline, quintessential rural towns, ancient indigenous heritage, and its cosmopolitan global capital city, Sydney. Start here and explore its magnificent natural harbour, majestic botanic gardens, iconic beaches and architectural landmarks, then head off and explore this fascinating state like a local.
Goonoo Goonoo Station – from Historic Station to Luxury Destination
Goonoo Goonoo Station is a lovingly curated rural resort of the highest standard, from the exquisite gardens lining the paths and buildings, to the picture perfect rural vistas from each guest’s window. Top this off with a contemporary and architecturally striking fine dining restaurant and you have a winning formula for a unique events destination and a truly unforgettable stay.
Room With A Zoo – On Zoofari at Taronga Western Plains Zoo, Dubbo
Spend a night under the stars, watching zebra and giraffe saunter by as you sip on your favourite Safari style cocktail, binoculars in place around your neck and the roar of distant lions in the air. You are on Zoofari!
Pixsell Travels 