A 700m long avenue of native trees stretching along the creek side of Maryland Drive will create a living legacy in honour of Queen Elizabeth II.
The 70 mature trees, which were initially planned as part of Platinum Jubilee celebrations to mark the Queen’s 70 years of service to the Commonwealth, will now provide a lasting tribute to the late monarch, who visited Newcastle four times during her reign.
The project was jointly funded by City of Newcastle and the Australian Government’s Planting Trees for The Queen’s Jubilee Program, which was designed to support community-based tree planting events across Australia.
Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes and Federal Member Sharon Claydon visited the site today to unveil a commemorative plaque and plant the final three trees in the Queen’s Jubilee Avenue of Native Trees.
Cr Nelmes said the avenue provided a fitting tribute to the long-lasting reign of the Queen while also contributing to the biodiversity of the area.
“Just over a month ago we joined the world in mourning the passing of Queen Elizabeth II after more than 70 years serving her nation and our country as Australia’s Head of State,” Cr Nelmes said.
“Today we pay tribute to that dedicated service with this splendid avenue of native trees, which will continue to grow and mature over the years for future generations to enjoy.”
Newcastle MP Sharon Claydon said it was a poignant day that celebrates the Queen’s long reign by creating a living legacy in her honour.
“I am honoured to help plant the final trees and unveil this commemorative plaque, which will provide beautification and sustainability for Maryland locals and visitors alike, whilst commemorating the Queen’s extraordinary life and service,” Ms Claydon said.
A large garden bed planted with native shrubs and grasses is located at the beginning of the Queen’s Jubilee Avenue and features a large sandstone block, providing a striking centrepiece to display the commemorative plaque.
The project supports City of Newcastle’s commitment to increasing urban forest canopy cover and improving open spaces for wildlife and future generations.
Twelve native tree species were chosen in the planting program to provide the maximum benefit to the biodiversity of this area and ensure the successful establishment of vegetation within an important wildlife corridor.
The project also involves restoration of the northern vegetation surrounding Maryland Creek enabling wildlife to move between landscapes, creating more resilient local wildlife populations and ensuring weeds are kept to a minimum.
Future community-tree planting events will be held to improve the connection of the Queen’s Jubilee Avenue of Native Trees, Maryland Creek, and the nearby RAMSAR-listed Hunter Wetlands, which are internationally significant for migratory shorebirds and other wildlife.