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Have your say on protecting Baw Baw most significant trees in round 2 of community consultation until 18 July 2025

Baw Baw Shire Council invites community feedback on 240 significant trees nominated for protection in the Draft Significant Tree Register, with submissions open until Friday 18 July.

By news@gippsland - 27th May 2025 - Back to News

Baw Baw Shire Council is seeking community feedback on the protection of trees in townships across the Shire as part of Round 2 consultation on the Draft Significant Tree Register project. Following the nomination of trees received by the public, council and Greenwood Consulting have collaborated to compile the Baw Baw Draft Significant Tree Register and accompanying 'Significant Tree Study' and the community is invited once again to have their say.

The register lists 240 trees and 28 avenues or reserves, all independently assessed. Community feedback will shape the final version

Treasuring exceptional trees

The Draft Significant Tree Register identifies 240 individual trees of exceptional environmental, historical, cultural or aesthetic significance across Baw Baw Shire. The Significant Tree Study also includes 28 avenues, tree groups and key reserves that contribute meaningfully to the region's identity and landscape.
Deputy Mayor Cr Tricia Jones said the register highlighted the vital role trees played in the shire's identity and sustainability.

"These aren't just any trees - they're the best of the best. They shape our towns, support biodiversity, and foster community connection. I encourage everyone to get involved and share their thoughts, your voice is essential in ensuring these exceptional trees are protected for generations to come," Cr Jones said.

Provide your feedback

Each tree was reviewed using established criteria and thoroughly assessed on-site by qualified independent arborists to determine its significance. The Draft Baw Baw Significant Tree Register spans townships across Baw Baw and aims to strengthen protection measures through the Baw Baw Planning Scheme.

Community members can review the Draft Significant Tree Register, Significant Tree Study and background documents, and make a submission to provide feedback. For those who prefer face-to-face engagement, a drop-in session will be held:

• When: Thursday 26 June, 2pm to 7pm
• Where: Lyrebird Room, West Gippsland Arts Centre, Warragul

Submissions close at 5pm on Friday 18 July. To learn more and make a submission, visit Baw Baw Connect website, council's online engagement platform.

Pictures from Baw Baw Shire Council Facebook page.

Source: http://gippsland.com/

Published by: news@gippsland.com