A special lighting project will see three of the region’s largest and oldest fig trees illuminated at night.
The majesty and beauty of these historic trees, located on Walker Street in the Multiplex complex, will be highlighted by lighting projections with more than 1000 colour options.
Mayor Jack Dempsey said the project was a great way to honour the Hills Weeping Fig trees which were about 100 years old and had become a local landmark.
“These iconic trees have lasted through many generations and now they’ll be lit up to mark special events for the entire community to enjoy,” Mayor Dempsey said.
“The trees will be illuminated for a few hours each night, which we hope will delight residents and visitors and draw attention to these magnificent trees.
“The colour of the lights will be changed on a regular basis, to recognise significant events on the national and state calendar.”
Following a trial run earlier this week the lights will be permanently switched on from Saturday, 10 October.
“The first colour will be purple for Mental Health Week, raising awareness for this important issue,” Mayor Dempsey said.
“I hope these trees being lit up will bring some joy and peace to people who are suffering.”
The idea was born out of a love of trees by Council arborist Darrin Robinson and his desire to create a better appreciation for them.
“I thought we could use the excellent structure of these Hills Weeping Fig trees as an artistic medium by installing lights,” Darrin said.
He oversaw the project to ensure all necessary measures were taken to protect the historic trees.
“As these fig trees are very old, we used water excavation to carefully expose the masses of surface roots, and weaved the electrical cables underneath.
“It was a really nice moment when I saw them lit up for the first time.”
The lighting was supplied and commissioned by local company All LED Direct, coordinated by Council’s trade services team.
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I am so pleased about recognising these historic trees as I was worried they’d be removed as part of the redevelopment near the Multiplex.
I often drive from Faldt Street past the Multiplex and past those beautiful trees.