Special support for a signature Queens Park fig tree

31 October 2018

Support cradles have been installed underneath a Hill’s Weeping Fig (Ficus microcarpa var. hillii) on Goleby Avenue.

The tree had three extended horizontal limbs, with the majority of foliage weighted at the end, which were susceptible to leverage fracture in strong winds.

Works, Parks and Recreation Acting Chief Operating Officer Bryce Hines said council wanted to make sure this significant and healthy heritage tree had the best future possible.

“If one of these extended limbs was to fracture it could jeopardise the future health of this tree,” he said.

“The padded support cradles have been designed to not have contact with the bough. It is essential the branches are independent and able to move with wind conditions, which will encourage bough strength.

“The cradles have been designed as a backup support for strong winds, effectively preventing these limbs from overextending.

“With storm season approaching it’s timely to make sure this very old and significant tree has some extra assistance.”

The support cradles are permanently anchored in place but are adjustable to ensure the gap between cradle and bough is maintained in the best interests of the tree.

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