Favourite Tree of the Tweed photo comp is back

THE fifth annual Favourite Tree of the Tweed photography competition is back for 2024, promoting the benefits of trees in the shire’s urban areas.

As part of the Tweed Shire Council’s Cool Towns Urban Forest Program, the competition helps to highlight the importance of trees in providing shade and cooling areas where concrete and asphalt absorb heat.

Education officer Jane Moad said the competition shone a light on the many health and wellbeing benefits of trees.

“Photos seemed like the best way to showcase people’s personal connections with trees in their community,” Moad said.

“By incorporating trees into our urban landscapes, we provide shade in the places we live, work and play.

“It’s important for our Cool Towns Urban Forest program to connect with what people value about trees so that we can see more of them benefiting our neighbourhoods

“It’s also protecting our future communities from the effects of urban heat for generations to come.”

In 2023, 26 entries attracted 372 public votes. The winning entry of the Dome Tent Pandanus tree in Kingscliff by Essie and Freddie Hanna received 67 votes.

Moad had a few tips for budding photographers.

“Make sure your photo is clear and taken on a clear day, if possible,” she said.

“Try to incorporate other features in the photo for context, a picnic table, a chair or a pathway, or even a ball or a scooter if you associate this tree with play.

“Photographing trees is not always easy – you don’t always have to get the whole tree in the photo, and the story accompanying the photo is important too.”

The entry voted the Tweed’s favourite will receive a nursery voucher for a native tree or plants, a gardening maintenance kit and 6 bags of high-quality compost produced by Soilco from Tweed’s Organics Processing Facility.

The competition is free to enter and closes at midnight on Tuesday, November 19. Community voting opens on Wednesday, November 20, until Sunday, December 8.

For terms and conditions and to enter, visit yoursaytweed.com.au/cool-towns