Benalla Rural City Council is making progress on an extensive tree survey to support improved planning, maintenance and long-term management of trees across streets, parks and Council-managed land.
Council has engaged qualified arborists to assess approximately 11,600 trees throughout the municipality, focusing on street and park trees of significant size or importance. Each assessed tree will be individually identified and recorded within Council’s mapping systems, creating a readily accessible source of information to guide future planning, maintenance and asset management.
Phase 1 of the program, which included assessment of 6,000 trees, has now been completed. Phase 2 is scheduled to commence in April 2026, capturing the remaining significant trees across the municipality.
Mayor Cr Bernie Hearn said this program will provide Council with accurate, detailed information about our trees, enabling more informed decision-making and proactive maintenance.
“Our street and park trees play a vital role in enhancing neighbourhood character, providing urban shade, supporting biodiversity and improving community wellbeing, and this work will help ensure they are managed sustainably into the future.”
Cr Hearn said the initiative reflects Council’s ongoing commitment to caring for public open spaces and investing in long-term environmental outcomes as identified in the Council Plan.
Residents may notice arborists working across streets and parks as the program continues. Council appreciates the community’s cooperation while this important work is undertaken.