The tall, thin radiata pine-tree crashed to the ground with a soft thud.
It was one of about 100 pine trees Ric has cleared at our farm in Red Hill. Only 1000 pine-trees to go!
Bringing down the radiata pine-tree.
Half of the 10-acre property at Kookaburra Rise has been overcome with a forest of invasive species. Pines, pittosporum and blackberries have crowded out, and killed, many gums and native bushes and driven out the wildlife.
It’s an eerie feeling walking on the pine-needle laden tracks through the forest amongst the fallen gums, although it’s great for going on a bear hunt with the little ones.
Bella and Billy on a bear hunt.
Even though we’re doing a good thing by removing the pines, it still feels sad to be killing a tree. One tree of this size draws out 25kg’s of carbon from the atmosphere a year. So, as the tree fell, I thanked it for its contribution.
Then I imagined the Manna Gum that will one day grow in its place and the colony of koalas we hope to attract. We’ve not seen a koala at Kookaburra Rise yet, but we do know they’re in the area.
Ric and our Christmas Tree.
The manifesto we created over 12 months ago talks to our intent to rewild the land to attract native species.
Our dream is that one day, a colony of Koala’s will have found a new home alongside our friends the Kookaburra’s; a sign that we have earned our right to be here, even while knowing that our work has just begun.
The pine-tree made the perfect Xmas tree for our communal room at Clifton Hill where our community will gather to celebrate the festive season. Everyone will bring a decoration to add to the tree and a donation of food destined for the Asylum Seeker Resource Centre.
Our community Christmas Tree
In the end, the tree had a noble purpose. It was the perfect centre-piece for community and contribution.
What are the trees that you give thanks to? I’d love to know.
With love
Carolyn Tate
Author | Educator | Community Builder | Author of The Purpose Project & Brave Women Write
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