2022

2022 was focused on consolidating major built elements while refining how people move through the arboretum. Work on the stone henge was completed, with cracks filled, water managed, grass established on the ring walk, and ferns introduced into the inner walls to soften the stonework over time. Cleopatra’s Pool progressed from concept to implementation, including sourcing and delivering large structural rocks, draining and testing the pool, and preparing the surrounding area for construction. Site-wide changes such as improved mowing regimes, tree labelling, hedge reduction, and significant arborist work (especially in the oak grove) improved access, visibility and long-term structure.

Weather shaped almost everything else. Persistent wet conditions, repeated frosts and periods of strong wind caused widespread stress and tree losses, particularly among frost‑sensitive and water‑intolerant species. Around 80 trees were removed during the year, with further losses continuing as conditions shifted from saturated to dry. At the same time, prolonged moisture drove strong growth in surviving trees, grasses and understory plants, increased bird activity, and highlighted drainage and erosion issues that now require structural solutions. The year reinforced the importance of consistent spraying, mowing and water management in an increasingly variable climate.

4/16 – Zelkova autumn colour.

4/16 – I reseeded the Ancestor’s henge with native Microlaena … none of it came up.

4/25 – Sugar maple autumn colour.

5/2 – Ginkgo autumn colour.

5/5 – Quaking aspen leaf autumn colour.

7/20 – Mexican weeping pine with its attractive weeping habit.

7/21 – Frosty morning mid-year.

7/22 – The Coast banksia grove. A favourite of hang out of Black Cockatoos and Wattlebirds.

9/8 – Experimenting with a cool burn along the creek.

9/9 – The main weed problem Phalaris came back as strong as ever except under the gum trees. There was also some natural recruitment of native Dogwoods.

9/27 – Japanese flowering crab-apple, a chaotic growing habit but stunning floral display.

9/29 – Blackwood blossom in the creek.

11/2 – A ‘cool’ burn under a failing old Blue gum. The tree died but multiple seedlings were germinated.

11/18 – Golden chain tree. Some blossoms which survived ‘pruning’ by the Sulfer crested cockatoos. For some reason this species is particularly singled out for attention by the Cockies.

12/26 – A raft of floating pond ‘something’. The clarity and plant colonies in the Ancestor’s henge are constantly changing. And some are more attractive than others.