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Level of Significance

  • File
  • Local
  • Regional
  • State
  • National

Age (approx)

100yrs

Trees

1

Diameter

1m

Height - 26m

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Details

Common name
English Oak
Botanical name
Quercus robur
Type
Individual Tree
Condition
Good
Municipality
Yarra (VIC)
Location
18 St Helier's Street Abbotsford VIC 3067
Access
Restricted
Significances
  • Outstanding species (Scientific)
  • Location/Context (Social)
  • Landscape (Social)
Date of measurement
06 Dec 2014
Date of classification
27 Apr 2015

Statement of Significance

This outstanding example of Quercus robur is one of the largest to be registered. It is the tallest recorded English Oak in Melbourne or any other urban location in Victoria, and is only surpassed by those in rural locales. It is believed to have been planted by the Good Shepherd nuns around 1920 and its healthy state offers aesthetic value contributing to the surrounding environment, especially in the attractive surrounds of the convent farm. Located close to the Yarra River it can be easily viewed from the Capital City Trail.

History

The convent precinct is the most intact site associated with the first documented European contact in Victoria. This bend of the river has been subject to less change than any other section of the river and the valley has changed little since early days of settlement. The land here has been used for farming since 1838 at least and is the oldest continually farmed land in Victoria. In 1863 to 1975 the Sisters of the Good Shepherd occupied the site and it is believed that the English Oaks here were planted by the order.