By JODIE SYMONDS
A GIGANTIC tree in Monbulk has planted its spot on the National Register of Big Trees as the biggest Mountain White Gum in mainland Australia.
The register records the biggest of every species of tree in Australia.
Trees that are nominated are measured on their circumference, their height and crown.
The 250-year-old tree is located near Old Emerald and Emerald-Monbulk roads, and stands at 67 metres high, with a circumference of 7.5m and a 33m crown.
The tree was nominated to the register by Thomas Bright, a student from NMIT as part of his study, and is the first champion to have been added to the register.
Mr Bright said he found the tree while driving through for work and thought he would submit the nomination.
“When I first looked at it, I was pretty confident that it would win and I’m glad it did,” Mr Bright said.
“I think big trees should be protected.
“Hopefully (the win) will motivate others to acknowledge the trees we have.”
Other trees around the Yarra Ranges that have made it onto the register are in Sassafras and Monbulk.
Co-ordinator of the National Register of Big Trees, Derek McIntosh, said over the years a big tree came up out of the blue.
“This species of tree can get very big, although this one is exceptionally big,” Mr McIntosh said.
This tall leafy gum is a great example of species potential and in good health, according to the National Register of Big Trees.
To nominate a tree, visit www.nationalregisterofbigtrees.com.au.
