Community
3 April, 2024
HDLN is set to mark National Eucalypt Day
TIMBOON’s Alan Kerr thinks his favourite tree just might be older than him.
He said it is a big old Manna Gum along the Camperdown-Timboon Rail Trail in Timboon.
“The tree is so old, it was probably still growing when they first put the railways through over 100 years ago,” Mr Kerr said.
“It’s still there because of it’s twisted and gnarled nature: it was never any good for milling.
“Now it’s got limbs that reach out over 100 foot from the middle of the tree. It’s a magnificent specimen and habitat tree if ever there was one.”
To celebrate National Eucalypt Day, the community is invited to join Heytesbury District Landcare Network (HDLN) for a meander through Power Creek Reserve on Monday, April 8 at 2pm.
Visiting environmental educator Mile Robinson-Koss from Otway Greening Indigenous Plant Nursery will tell some stories about the tall Manna gums which grow in Timboon’s creek lines and the life they support.
“The Manna is the koala tree and an iconic species of our region,” he said.
HDLN project officer Kate Leslie said the leaves of Manna gum have a good sugar content and its summer flowers provide insects a sweet nectar.
“It’s school holidays so all ages are welcome. It’s free and we’d love you to join us and enjoy our amazing Manna gums,” she said.
The free community session will be held between 2-3pm on Monday, April 8.
Those attending are asked to meet near the Timboon pool at the Power Creek entrance.