Maleny’s Iconic fig tree succumbs after years of decline from earthworks

A Council contractor commenced site preparation for Barung Landcare in January 2009.  

The Barung fig tree suffering its second loss of major limbs. Photo: 20 January 2020.

Maleny’s once-majestic fig tree, a landmark feature of the community precinct, has been removed following a prolonged period of decline. The tree, which stood for over 90 years, suffered irreparable damage during site preparations in January 2009.

In early 2009, the Sunshine Coast Council engaged contractors to prepare a site for Barung Landcare’s temporary nursery. 

During bulk earthworks, significant terracing above the tree removed nearly half of its roots and covered its base with 1-2 meters of soil. 

This earthwork attracted urgent warnings from three respected arborists that such disturbance would endanger the tree. 

Despite promises to follow this expert advice and protect the tree, further terracing on the lower side the following day resulted in more root destruction. In all, around 80 percent of the roots were buried or removed.

David Hockings AM, an eminent horticulturist, predicted the tree’s gradual deterioration, stating that such major soil disturbance under the drip line would lead to the tree’s eventual death.

Over the following years, the fig tree progressively deteriorated. Photographs since 2009 document the tree losing major limbs, with its condition steadily worsening. By 2020, the tree was dead, its carcass blotting the landscape, having succumbed to the damage inflicted more than a decade prior.

Dr Max Whitten, former Golf Club President, expressed his dismay at the situation, saying, “It is a sad indictment of the two parties responsible for this unwarranted and avoidable exercise in environmental vandalism. It was as clear as night follows day that the magnificent fig tree was doomed. 

The dead limbs were all that remained last week, July 5 2024.

“Possibly worse, an overhanging mature cedar in the neighbouring  privately-owned heritage-listed Porters Wood also incurred major root damage, just to accommodate a water tank. While still alive today, its indifferent health bears testimony of its encounter with Council’s bulldozer.”

Dr Whitten said many mourned the needless loss of a fig which had been a beacon of the natural landscape for generations.

Council’s response

A Sunshine Coast Council spokesperson said Council was committed to protecting and preserving trees throughout the region “and it was with great disappointment that the fig tree at Maleny Community Precinct had declined over many years”.

“As such Council removed the tree in November 2022 following a major branch failure. 

“We acknowledge our significant trees across the region are important to our community.

“Council now has new processes to identify and monitor the health of our significant trees. This process includes annual visual tree assessments by qualified arborists to identify defects and to ensure the safety of our community.

“Unfortunately, from time to time, trees need to be removed to ensure continued safety of our community.”