By Jessica Micallef
A rare Sunbury tree has a claim on fame.
The weeping Mexican cypress, located at Caloola, a former Sunbury mental hospital at Jackson’s Hill, is in the running to be named Victoria Tree of the Year.
National Trust of Australia (Victoria) advocacy manager Felicity Watson said the tree was incredibly rare.
“There are only a handful of examples of this tree in Victoria,” she said.
“There are rival collections in the Royal Botanic Gardens … it’s a really significant collection of trees.”
Ms Watson said there were no historical records on who planted the Mexican cypress or when but it is believed to be about 120 years old.
The tree was registered on the National Trust Register of Signficant Trees in 1994.
“Jackson’s Hill has an exceptional collection of trees and we’re really pleased to be able to put this tree forward,” Ms Watson said.
“We encourage the community to get behind the significance of the tree.”
National Trust chief executive Simon Ambrose said the Victoria Tree of the Year competition was a way for the community to celebrate history.
“The contest is a chance for people to share their stories and have some fun while also strengthening their connection with significant trees,” he said.
“We hope to see the public get even more involved by voting for a tree that has truly captured their heart.”
Voting for the Victoria Tree of the Year is open until Sunday, May 19. The winner will be announced at the end of the month.
To vote: bit.ly/2ISkCJv
