Sherwood | What’s So Special About the Sherwood Arboretum?

Author // Georgina Auton, Place Graceville

If you’re a resident of Sherwood or the surrounds, you’ve probably visited the Sherwood Arboretum many times.

Whether it be to play on the park as a kid or picnicking in summer, the Arboretum is such a huge part of our community.

But have you ever wondered what the avenue of trees represents and did you know it actually has a name?

We chat to Marion Mackenzie from the Oxley-Chelmer History Group and Friends of the Sherwood Arboretum about the history of the Arboretum. She helped us put this story about the history together.

Thomas Fielding, the Head Teacher of Sherwood State School, with his grandchildren and family, circa late 1920s, walking along the young Queensland Kauri Avenue. (Image: Courtesy of Friends of the Sherwood Arboretum) — Thomas Fielding, the Head Teacher of Sherwood State School, with his grandchildren and family, circa late 1920s, walking along the young Queensland Kauri Avenue. (Image: Courtesy of Friends of the Sherwood Arboretum)

The Avenue

In March 1925, a collection of identical trees native to Queensland were planted to form an avenue in the Sherwood Arboretum.

Named after the Governor of Queensland at the time, Sir Matthew Nathan, the avenue came to be known as Nathan Avenue.

“Many people think the avenue is some kind of war memorial but it’s not,” Marion explains.

“The project of planting the trees was actually the last official project of Sherwood Shire Council before they joined and became part of Brisbane Council.”

Meeting of the Queensland Forestry Association held at the Graceville home of the Nixon's (1 November 1924) to discuss the future creation of Sherwood Arboretum. Seated centre (holding his hat) is Sir Matthew Nathan,  Queensland Governor, who p… — Meeting of the Queensland Forestry Association held at the Graceville home of the Nixon's (1 November 1924) to discuss the future creation of Sherwood Arboretum. Seated centre (holding his hat) is Sir Matthew Nathan, Queensland Governor, who played a key role in promoting the future Arboretum. Sir Matthew officially opened the Arboretum. (Image: Courtesy of Friends of the Sherwood Arboretum)

The 72 trees in two straight lines were planted by various important people at the time, including Greater Brisbane’s Lord Mayor William Jolly (who you might recognise as he also has a bridge named after him!), the Governor and many scientists and botanists.

Far from being a memorial, the Sherwood Arboretum represents unity and commemorates people who came together to establish an important place for the preservation of plant species and botany.

The Sherwood Arboretum is home to various species of birds! (Image: Georgina Auton)

The Arboretum

In August 1925, 100 students from Sherwood State School planted one tree each. While many of these trees may not have survived, the documents, which were signed by students using their best handwriting, stated who planted each tree - these have been preserved.

The area of the Arboretum was actually in existence long before both of these events.

There are many species and plants that grow in the arboretum and it’s a thriving environment for botanists and birdwatchers alike!

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If you would like any more information on the Sherwood Arboretum or the local area, please get in contact with the Friends of the Sherwood Arboretum via ilovesherwoodarboretum@gmail.com or the Oxley-Chelmer History Group via ochginc@gmail.com.

They are also seeking photos of the trees being planted in 1925 or information from descendants.

The iconic avenue of 72 Queensland Kauri trees, originally planted on 21 March 1925. (Image: Courtesy of Friends of the Sherwood Arboretum) — The iconic avenue of 72 Queensland Kauri trees, originally planted on 21 March 1925. (Image: Courtesy of Friends of the Sherwood Arboretum)