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Statement of Significance

The avenue of 49 Kurrajongs (Brachychiton populneus) was planted in 1901-1902 along Comyn Street between the Wimmera Highway and Mc Donald Street. There are 28 trees along the north side and 21 trees along the south side. At the 1902 Annual General meeting of the Murtoa Progress Association, it was reported that among the 533 trees planted in 1901, 28 were "curyjongs[sic]. The curyjongs were planted in Comyn Street and are looked after by the residents of that street who also donated trees." A further 28 trees were planted the following year. A postcard postmarked 1903 shows the avenue of young trees in tree guards along Comyn Street.<BR>The avenue is the earliest known Kurrajong planting in Victoria and amongs the earliest surviving street tree plantings using an Australian native species. This tree planting represents a significant change in tree selection in Victoria where evergreen Australian natives became the preferred species for northern areas, rather than exotic deciduous trees mainly used prior to 1900.<BR>This planting is only preceded by an avenue of Moreton Bay Figs in Warrnambool (1890s)<BR>The avenue of Kurrajongs provides an impressive evergreen 'tunnel' and visual experience rarely encountered in Victoria. The trees have grown to a mature size and provide a unifying theme. Their smooth grey trunks, dense lime green canopies and regular spacing provide an attractive landscape