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Level of Significance

  • File
  • Local
  • Regional
  • State
  • National

Age (approx)

500yrs

Trees

1

Diameter

4m

Height - 8m

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Details

Common name
Boab Tree
Botanical name
Adansonia gregorii
Other name
Prison Tree
Type
Individual Tree
Condition
Good
Municipality
Derby-West Kimberley (WA)
Location
Adjacent To Myall'S Bore, Derby-Gibb River Rd Derby WA 6728
Access
Unrestricted
Significances
  • Remnant (Scientific)
  • Outstanding size (Scientific)
  • Aboriginal/Torres Strait Islander (Social)
  • Landmark (Social)
Date of measurement
02 Jul 1905
Other register(s)
WA Heritage Register

Statement of Significance

The Prison tree is significant because it has become a symbol for the town of Derby as for the history associated with it. It represents the harsh treatment prisoners often received in the north of Australia in the late nineteenth and early twentieth century. Large hollow boab tree believed to have been used as a holding post for prisoners who were being taken into Derby. The prison tree is a well established tourist landmark and recognised site of indigenous significance.

Notes

Protected by a post and wire fence.