Historical information

In 1871, Victoria Park, beside the Boroondara General Cemetery was set aside as a public reserve. As the Park developed, exotic plants were added to existing specimens. In 1910, a photograph of ‘The Oldest Inhabitant: A Giant Red-gum Tree’ in the Park was included in the Jubilee History of Kew. Fifty-one years later the tree was re-photographed by Colin Campbell. A 2007 Master Plan developed for the City of Boroondara advises the retention of this now dead River Red Gum, including a ‘managed risk zone’ and planting under the heavily lopped tree.

Physical description

‘The Old Gum Tree’ in Victoria Park. In the distance a game of cricket is being played on the oval. The old grandstand can be seen in the photo. Photographer Colin Campbell 1961.

Inscriptions & markings

THE OLD GUM TREE / COLIN CAMPBELL KEW 1961