Tinsel turmoil as Ayr’s Christmas tree on the move

The decision to relocate Ayr’s iconic Christmas tree has stirred some disappointment in the Burdekin community, with many residents voicing concerns over the council’s lack of consultation.

Burdekin Shire Council workers decorating the town's Christmas tree at the Queens and Edward St roundabout in 2013.

The decision to relocate Ayr’s iconic Christmas tree has stirred some disappointment in the Burdekin community, with many residents voicing concerns over the council’s lack of consultation.

Traditionally located at the centre of the Queens and Edward St roundabout in the heart of the CBD, council will instead be putting up trees in two new locations: outside the Burdekin Theatre in Ayr and the Home Hill Comfort Stop.

Council says the move is intended to make the tree more accessible and safe for families.

But Treena List, a former local business owner and ex-councillor, expressed dismay over the council’s approach.

This was only heightened when she heard they had chopped down the ‘Tuckeroo tree,’ a healthy, native species planted outside the Burdekin Theatre on Thursday.

A removal she beleives was done to make room for the new temporary Christmas tree.

Council crews have chopped down the ‘Tuckeroo tree' outside the Burdekin Theatre. Pictures: Supplied

“What upset me really is that council didn’t consider letting anybody else know before making the call,” Ms List said.

“Out on the street, the majority of people I talked to did not know that the Christmas tree was being shifted, nor did they know the other one was being cut down.”

But Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort claims the timing of the Tuckeroo tree’s removal was coincidental and the new Christmas tree will not be in place of the removed tree.

“The tree removal at the Burdekin Theatre was due to it obstructing the view of the Theatre facade and requires significant maintenance of the surrounding area,” she said.

“It had been marked for removal some time ago and is part of the Theatres beautification works.”

Former Ayr councillor and long time local Treena List on the town's main street. Photo: Cameron Laird

After learning of the council’s plans, Ms List quickly organised a petition, collecting signatures from community members and businesses.

“Seeing Christmas tree as you drive into town is beautiful. Near the shops is more in keeping with the Christmas charm and atmosphere,” one petitioner wrote.

“Please leave the beautiful tree where it is. Why destroy something so precious that gives shade and a home for the birds. The Christmas tree has always had pride of place on the roundabout where everyone can admire and appreciate it,” said another.

Ms List also believes central location of the Christmas tree at the roundabout has been a vital part of Ayr’s holiday celebrations for years, boosting community spirit.

“Having the Christmas tree at the roundabout where everyone can see it really gets everyone in the spirit; businesses put up their decorations, and the kids get excited,” she said.

“It’s also where we normally have a street party along Queen St on December 19, and it’s always been a big highlight.”

Burdekin Mayor Pierina Dalle Cort said that while the traditional location in Ayr at the roundabout has been a wonderful spot in the past, council wanted to make the experience “safer and more welcoming” for everyone.

Burdekin Shire Council workers decorating the town's Christmas tree at the Queens and Edward St roundabout in 2013.

She said the relocation reduces the risks some people take to capture a photo on a busy road.

“The roundabout location has served us well, but council has identified that relocating the new Christmas trees offers some fantastic benefits,” she said.

“The existing Christmas trees are over 30-years-old, have structural damage and are ageing, making them ready for a well-deserved retirement.

“Council recognises that there are mixed feelings around the location changes and we understand change can be difficult, but we see this as a wonderful opportunity to create a safer, family-friendly environment.

“Families can now enjoy the Christmas trees up close, in spacious locations that are ideal for gathering, celebrating, and taking holiday photos without the concern of busy traffic.”

She said council is looking at enhancing the roundabout with a new garden display.

Originally published as Tinsel turmoil as Ayr’s Christmas tree on the move