THE City of Whittlesea is inviting residents to celebrate the trees that make local streets, parks and neighbourhoods greener, cooler and more welcoming, as the much-loved Favourite Tree competition returns for another year.
Council says the annual competition is about more than taking a great photo — it’s a chance to reflect on the vital role trees play in shaping the character and wellbeing of the community.
Mayor Lawrie Cox said trees are fundamental to creating a livable city. “Trees add beauty to our streets, parks and backyards, but they do so much more. Trees cool our neighbourhoods, clean our air, support native wildlife and create peaceful places for us all to live and play,” he said.
Following the success of last year’s event, which attracted 35 entries, residents are being encouraged to submit a photo of their favourite tree along with a short explanation of why it’s meaningful to them. The winning photographer will receive a copy of Silent Sentinel: The Story of a Redgum by local artist Amaria Stark, and have their entry showcased in council’s Local Scoop newsletter and on the Greening Whittlesea Tree Hub.
Last year’s winner, Joan from Wollert, captured a breathtaking image of a majestic gum in Belknap Conservation Reserve — a tree she has admired since moving to the area in 2016. “I love its majesty and estimate it has been here for hundreds of years. It is one of my favourite trees to photograph, especially at sunset as the sun’s rays meander through the branches,” she said.
The competition supports council’s broader Greening Whittlesea – City Forest Strategy, which aims to increase green cover by 20 per cent by 2040. More than 8200 new trees were planted across the municipality in the past year alone.
Mayor Cox said council is committed to expanding and caring for the city’s urban forest to ensure long-term environmental and community benefits.
“Through council’s City Forest program, we are committed to planting more than 60,000 new trees over the next four years and caring for the ones we already have,” he said.
“Our goal is to grow a greener city, to cool our neighbourhoods, improve air quality, and support local wildlife.”
Cr Cox encouraged residents of all ages to take part in the competition and celebrate the natural beauty around them. “I hope you are inspired and see how much trees contribute to the character and health of the City of Whittlesea.”
To enter take a photo of your favourite tree and upload it with a short description at engage.whittlesea.vic.gov.au/trees
Entries close on February 28, 2026. Residents can also browse previous entries, share their stories, and explore tips for greening their neighbourhood via the Greening Whittlesea Tree Hub.
