For several hundred years a magnificent Muurrbay tree, or “Tree of Life” has nurtured many forebears of the Gumbaynggir people and acted as a housing estate and food basket for thousands of insect, bird and animal species. From its place overlooking the Bellinger in Wheatley Street, it has seen the emergence and progressive development of Bellingen town.

The Gumbaynggir people believe this particular tree has special significance, partly for its largesse as a food source, and partly through its place in their Dreamtime stories.

A community gathering occurred at the site of this local icon, to hear of the cultural and physical significance of this tree from the respected Gumbaynggir elders, Uncle Larry Kelly and Kevin Balangarri, and to consider ways to recognise its place in our community. The meeting included Landcare officers, coordinators, urban land care volunteers, Bellingen Shire Officers, Councillor Cronin, and many leading members of Bellingen community.

The community has long recognised the special significance of sites for their physical, architectural, religious or environmental significance, and increasingly in recent times for their historic significance.

This gathering may be the first to prompt the development of local mechanisms that can, with community-led initiative, provide recognition and protection for a site with both cultural and environmental merit.