Moreton Bay Fig Tree

Parent Place or Precinct

12028 Harvey Precinct No. 3

Statement of Significance

• The tree has historic value for its association with the first European settlers on the site, Mrs Smith, who planted the tree. • The tree has aesthetic value as an impressive example of the species.

Physical Description

The Moreton Bay Fig tree is characterised by its sprawling roots and its overall horizontal appearance. The trunk measures about 4 metres across and the overall diameter is about 30 metres. It is estimated that it stands about 20 metres in height. The trunk twists its way up the tree with the branches extending out, dropping low to the ground.

History

This huge Moreton Bay Fig tree is associated with the early days of settlement at Uduc. Maurice Brett Smith (1816-1893) established his Uduc farm in 1854. He owned several large farming properties and pastoral leases in the Harvey district on which he employed ticket-of-leave men. Maurice married Anna Maria Elizabeth Clarke (1844-1927) in 1872 and they had eight children, seven were girls. Following Maurice’s death in 1893, Anna Smith continued to manage the Uduc farm with the assistance of her brothers. It is noted by Harvey History Online that Maurice Smith planted olive trees on the Uduc Farm and these were used for a short lived olive oil industry. It is possible that Smith planted this Moreton Bay fig tree in the mid 19th century whilst establishing the farm. Uduc Farm homestead no longer exists.

Integrity/Authenticity

High

Condition

Thriving

Uses

Historic Themes

Creation Date

Publish place record online (inHerit):

Last Update