A living link to Daylesford’s past has been restored with the planting of a young English Elm in Burke Square—grown from a cutting of the original “Tree of Knowledge,” a much-loved landmark that once stood in the same spot.
The planting was recently completed by the local Parks and Gardens team, using nutrient-rich compost from the Shire’s food and garden organics collection to give the tree the best possible start. The cutting had been carefully nurtured for several years by staff at Wombat Hill Botanic Gardens, who ensured its survival after the original tree was damaged.
The Daylesford Tree of Knowledge was a large English Elm (Ulmus procera) that stood for decades in Bourke Square, adjacent to the Royal Hotel. It earned its nickname as a regular gathering place for local residents—particularly older men—who would sit in its shade and discuss news, politics, and community affairs. It became a symbol of informal democracy, shared wisdom, and social connection in Daylesford’s civic life.
In 2015, the tree was severely damaged during a storm and, despite community sentiment, was deemed unsafe and removed. Fortunately, cuttings were taken before its removal to preserve its lineage.
The new planting marks not just a physical restoration, but a cultural one—reinstating a focal point in the heart of Daylesford where the children of those old men may one day gather to reflect and share stories.
It’s important to distinguish the Daylesford Tree of Knowledge from the better-known Barcaldine Tree of Knowledge in Queensland. While Barcaldine’s Ghost Gum is nationally significant in Australian labour history, Daylesford’s English Elm holds its own quiet place in local lore as a cherished meeting place rooted in community tradition.
With care and time, the new tree will grow to embody the spirit of its predecessor—offering shade, beauty, and a place to pause in the heart of town for generations to come.
This article is based on a Facebook post by Hepburn Shire Council.
