Cairns tree climbing competition at Cannon Park open to public

A number of people are climbing trees in a two-day event in Cairns to spread an important message, with opportunities for public participation.

TREE climbing is a growing sport and some of region’s best scalers will be on display at day two of an annual event which aims to educate the public about arboriculture.

The Queensland Arboriculture Association hosted 20 of nation’s best tree climbers on Friday in a competitive event at Cannon Park, with a “freestyle” event to commence on Saturday.

Local arborist Mike Dowling said the event attracted a crowd of about 100 on Friday and he was hoping for more on Saturday.

Arborist Sam Hardingham competes in the Queensland Aboricultural Association Freestyle Tree Climbing Competition, held at Cannon Park, Woree. Picture: Brendan Radke

“This is an event that showcases arboriculture itself against what is commonly called tree lopping.

“So what we’re trying to do is get away from the word tree lopping and more into the technical side, which is really tree surgery. That’s what we’re trying to showcase.”

Owner of Advanced Vegetation Management arborist Mike Dowling says the Cairns tree climbing event was about educating the public about arboriculture. Picture: Brendan Radke

“It also shines out as a team building exercise and a social gathering where arborists get together and discuss new techniques as well as new equipment.”

Mr Dowling said there were limited opportunities for members of the public to join the freestyle competition and they would have to register in person at the event by 7am, but encouraged everyone to watch the climbers and potentially sign up for the sport.

Originally published as Cairns tree climbing competition at Cannon Park open to public