Goodbye to beloved tree leads to new beginnings for Emerald library park

One door closes, and another opens for the park behind Emerald Library, with precinct improvement consultation sessions and the removal of the remaining fig tree planned.

After removing one of the fig trees in 2019 due to Armillaria, a rapid fungus disease where rotting occurs to both the wood and root.

Central Highlands Regional Council has decided to remove the remaining also affected fig tree for safety reasons.

‘While it held on a little longer, the fig tree is unfortunately no longer providing shade and has the potential to become a safety risk as we head into storm season,’ said Mayor Kerry Hayes.  

‘These trees have been a beloved part of our Emerald community, and it is sad to see them deteriorate and removed over the last two years,’ said Mayor Kerry Hayes.

Council has been exploring options to develop the park since 2018.

Viability for large-scale redevelopment to create a community garden and multipurpose arts precinct is on hold due to logistical problems such as parking.

However, in the meantime, small-scale improvements are being scoped for implementation in the 2022-2023 financial year.  

‘While the feasibility of a purpose-built arts precinct needs further investigation, we want to ensure the area continues to be a community centred park for all to enjoy,’ said General Manager Communities John McDougall.

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