The iconic river red gum will be celebrated through the naming of Darlington Point’s new residential subdivision. Photo: Supplied.
Murrumbidgee Council has announced the new residential subdivision in the town of Darlington Point will be called ‘River Red Gum Estate’.
The name was chosen to honour the iconic river red gum, a tree species that is deeply intertwined with the region’s natural landscape, environment and cultural heritage.
Murrumbidgee Council Mayor Ruth McRae OAM said the council was pleased with the name, believing it was a fitting tribute to the local environment, culture and heritage.
Cr McRae continued, “The river red gum symbolises the strong connection between our community and the natural landscape. We are excited to celebrate this connection in our new development,” she said.
The river red gum is not only a vital part of the local ecosystem, but it also supports a wide array of wildlife. Ranging from parrots nesting in its hollows to native fish such as the Murray cod finding shelter in fallen trees, this iconic tree plays a key role in sustaining our region’s biodiversity. The trees tolerate immersion in floodwaters for up to nine months.
Historically, the river red gum has been essential to the region’s once thriving timber industry. Its timber has been used for construction, railway sleepers and firewood, contributing significantly to the local economy.
Beyond its ecological and economic importance, the river red gum also holds deep cultural significance for Aboriginal communities. For thousands of years, these trees have provided materials for canoes, shields, shelter, medicine and food, deeply embedding them in the cultural fabric of the region.
“I would like to thank everyone who submitted naming suggestions. We received an excellent response and it was a difficult decision to narrow it down to one. However, we believe the one we have selected pays homage to many different aspects of life and nature in our community,” Cr McRae said.
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