Witchcliffe locals call to save 'Grandmother Marri'

Locals are rallying to protect what they say is the oldest tree in Witchcliffe.

Caralynn Hoft of the Friends of Witchcliffe Forest, a sub-group of the Witchcliffe Community Association, said a land art installation highlighted the push to save the ‘Grandmother Marri’.

She said the second stage of the Leeuwin @ Witchcliffe subdivision threatened to take away the Witchcliffe polo field and its stand of ancient trees, with a road planned underneath the ‘Grandmother Marri’.

“This tree has a 9m girth and is over 450 years old,” Caralynn said.

“We hope to draw attention to her needs as well as that of the other trees on the polo field, the only community recreation field in Witchcliffe, now planned to be developed as housing.”

Speaking on behalf of developer Ablestar Holdings Pty Ltd, Proven Project Management told the Mail the matter was under review.

“The Developer is aware of the significance of the Grandmother tree and surrounding forest to the Witchcliffe community.

“The proposed alignment of the nearby road is currently under review to navigate around the Grandmother tree safely and respectfully.”

In late July around 30 locals and supporters began the installation, guided by Wadandi matriarch Vivienne Brockman Webb and artist Elaine Clocherty, to represent the tree protection zone, defined by Australian Standard 4970-2009.

“We returned in the glorious sunshine of the 4th of August to complete the art installation and photograph the results,” Caralynn said.

“Members of the Shire Council have expressed support for our suggestion that the proposed road curve around the tree protection zone, creating a ‘Grandmother Tree Park’ around her roots.

“The visual depiction of this curve is an expression of her significance to the community and we hope to protect her for hundreds more years.”

Our planning team is working closely with the Witchcliffe community and the developers of a subdivision recently approved by WAPC, to maximise the distance between a large tree and a proposed road,” Matt Cuthbert, Manager Planning and Regulatory Services at the Shire of Augusta Margaret River said.

“The developer has been very proactive in exploring opportunities which will maintain the tree’s health and ensure the unique natural environment is safeguarded as much as possible.”