Blackbutt and Brush box trees at Shailer Park and Meadowbrook have been growing in the Logan district for an estimated 290 years while at North Maclean, a massive Blue gum has stood for about 378 years.
The age of trees throughout the City was the focus of a recent round of testing by the local Council. The results identified eight prime specimens aged up to 378 years old.
Ancient hardwoods that are estimated to be aged between 135 and 317 were discovered in both Meadowbrook and Cedar Grove, while the blackbutt has survived in what is today a mostly suburban area of Shailer Park for about 290 years. Standing at a height of about 43 metres, it has also been listed as the tallest tree in Logan and is referred to as the ‘Grey Ghost’ by arborists.
According to City of Logan Councillor Jon Raven, aged trees are an important part of the area's eco-diversity, especially those that have been damaged such as having branches broken. He added:
“These broken branches eventually form into hollows and provide ideal nesting locations and protection for a range of birds and wildlife.”
Historic trees such as these are often viewed as local points of interest and are often mentioned in brochure printing campaigns within the tourism industry.
Council's programme for testing the age of trees has only been undertaken twice so far but may be expanded in the future.