Melbourne’s trees overwhelmed by declarations of love

By Maria Kyriacou

Image: Thinkstock
Image: Thinkstock
A scheme that began as a way for Melbournians to report tree damage, has morphed into an email love fest for the State's trees

Ever felt astounded and in awe of a magnificent, shady tree? Now you can join the 3000 others who have directly emailed individual trees they’ve fancied (if you’re in Melbourne) and let it know just how you feel.

When the Melbourne Urban Forest Project initially gave email addresses to each and every tree in State, it was so people could report broken branches or other such damage.

The evolution of the project has seen the trees bombarded with romantic emails celebrating their beauty or lamenting the imminent demise of trees headed for the chop.

Now the concept has gone international, with the trees receiving love notes from all corners of the world.

A Golden Wych Elm (tree ID 1028612) in Punt Rd opposite the Yarra River, has emerged as Melbourne’s most popular tree, receiving more emails than any of the 77,000 trees that are logged in waiting for mail.

One of the tree-huggers wrote, “”Dearest Golden Elm, I finally found you! I see you every day on my way to uni, but I had no idea of what kind of tree you are. You are the most beautiful tree in the city and I love you.”

Another flattering email read, “As I was leaving St Mary’s College today I was struck, not by a branch, but by your radiant beauty. You must get these messages all the time. You’re such an attractive tree.”

Willow Leaf Peppermint, Tree ID 1357982 received,” Hello Mr Willow Leaf Peppermint, or should I say Mrs Willow Leaf Peppermint? Do trees have genders? I hope you’ve had some nice sun today. Regards, L”

Some trees have to contend with the big issues. Western Red Cedar, Tree ID 1058295 was sent, “Hi Tree, Are you worried about being affected by the Greek debt crisis? Should Greece be allowed to stay in the European Union? Regards, Troy”

What would you like to tell your favourite tree?

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