HISTORICAL TREE RECLAIMED AS INTERACTIVE PUBLIC ART
12 Sep 2019
A stunning Sydney Red Gum, which has been a local icon for Lane Cove, Sydney, for many generations, has been given new life as an interactive natural sculpture for the community to enjoy thanks to Timber Creations. See how they preserved this beloved community landmark.
Andrew Smith Timber Creations was commissioned by Lane Cove Council to save select branches from the top of the historic tree and create a visually stunning bespoke artwork that is safe to be climbed on and enjoyed by the public. The sculpture remains at the precise location of the original tree in Central Park, Longueville. 
HISTORY
A much-loved feature of the community with a rich history, the tree is an Angophora Costata, commonly known as a Smooth Barked Apple or Sydney Red Gum – although it is not a true eucalypt. This breed of tree is very beautiful with a distinctive colour and shape. There are many examples of this species throughout the Sydney Basin that are well over 200 years old, surviving the test of time as their unique, bendy shape made them unsuitable for the timber milling industry.
This tree was one of the oldest living organisms in Lane Cove but, like all natural things, it eventually reached the end of its lifespan, and due to the height and far-reaching branches it had become a danger. Lane Cove Council had multiple arborists confirm the need for removal due to safety concerns. The community held a farewell for the tree, as it had been enjoyed by many generations and was greatly valued. 
NEW LIFE
Lane Cove Council commissioned Timber Creations to create a landmark sculpture to commemorate the tree in the spot where it had lived. Two of the upper branches were selected and kept onsite, where Timber Creations worked to arrange and carefully balance, connect and sculpt to create a safe public play sculpture. This was done over several months, with Timber Creations attending to the timber at key times during the natural drying processes in order to retain and enhance the natural beauty and aesthetic features of the original tree.
“Trees, especially those indigenous to the area, are greatly valued by the Lane Cove community," said the Mayor of Lane Cove, Clr Pam Palmer. "We were pleased to be able to preserve some of this large Angophora in the place where it once grew for the community to continue to enjoy and value this resource.”
This interactive sculpture is now open for the public to enjoy, offering climbing and play opportunities for children, a fantastic place to sit and enjoy the sun for adults, and a symbol of natural history to be explored and admired by all. “We’ve had a great response from our residents - they love it!” concluded Palmer. 
Get in touch with Timber Creations today to discuss your next natural playspace via the links below.
