details

Statement of Significance

The Batman Apple Tree' listed as the oldest living apple tree in Victoria. It has a concrete block near its base inscribed '1841' and has has long been associated with John Batman. It is locally believed that it was planted by either John Batman (c.1837) or Martin Batey (1841) but there is no definitive proof. There is no doubt that the tree is of great age.History: 'The Batman Apple Tree' was brought from Tasmania by John Batman, along with other fruit trees to plant at his camp at Batman Hill. Following his death the trees were bought by Frederick Flintoff and planted in the Greensborough district. Frederick and his brother Theodore were early pioneers of the area. The fruit trees were later transplanted by Martin Batey to Flintoff's property 'Brancepeth Farm', which was subsequently sold to John Bosch at beginning of the century. A 1910 Leader Newspaper photo shows the tree, and an newspaper article in 1913 identifies the tree as an 'old veteran'. In 1942 is was confirmed that the tree was call the 'Batman Tree' and in 2002, the arborist Franz Kreinecker, estimated the tree to be circa 1841.The tree is located off Corowa Crescent, access via path opposite Warrool Court. The tree is situated beside Plenty River walking trail, just south of Maroondah aqueduct bridge, behind Corowa Crescent properties, and can also be accessed via Hamish Court path.