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Statement of Significance

The rich, fertile soil, temperate climate and the interest of many of its citizens in things botanical has resulted in theToowoomba Region’s ability to grow a wide range of indigenous and non-indigenous plants. In 1860, the area was the first to hold an Agricultural Show in Queensland – 15 years before Brisbane. Walter Hill, the then Government Botanist and first Curator of the Brisbane City Botanic Gardens, travelled to Toowoomba to advise with the design and planning of Queens Park and street plantings in Toowoomba. He subsequently imported many tree species from Europe, Asia and other parts of the world to be planted there. Hill Street in Toowoomba is named in his honour. The town attracts many visitors in September for its famous Carnival of Flowers, when people come from near and far to enjoy Toowoomba’s many parks and gardens.
The magnificent Boyce Garden, forest and park, which covers six hectares, was established as a private garden by leading Toowoomba businessman, Dr Leslie Boyce, and his wife Margaret, over a period of almost sixty years. Dr and Mrs Boyce gave the house and surrounding property to the University of Queensland in 1969, in trust for the enjoyment and education of the people of Australia.
This Southern Magnolia was planted about 1935 and was one of the early trees planted by Dr Leslie and Mrs Margaret Boyce as they developed their garden.
This is an outstanding example of its species and makes a significant contribution to the landscape of the historic Boyce Gardens, close to the entrance. The tree is associated Dr Leslie and Margaret Boyce who established the gardens. It is a large and beautiful flowering tree in a prominent position in the gardens.
The tree is located above the lawn and about 30 metres to the east of the gate onto Range Street.