Whether you are entering Tenterfield NSW on Clarence Street, departing the town on Cowper Street or are simply walking down Logan Street, one of the oldest streets in town, you cannot help being graced by the magnificent sight of the nearly century-old avenues of Pin Oak trees (Quercus palustris) which in places, form a canopy above these streets. 

The Pin Oaks were planted by Robert Brush in 1932. With their breathtaking beauty during autumn, these trees aren't just part of the scenery—they're a cornerstone of our community's history and charm and leave a lasting impression upon people who visit the town from all parts of Australia and the world.

The Avenues of Pin Oaks are one of the primary reasons this town attracts visitors, who in turn support our local economy at all times of year but in particular, during Tenterfield's Autumn Festival.

According to the newsletter dated 14 April 2025, it would appear Council is making two proposals in relation to the Pin Oaks: -

1. That all the Pin Oaks on both sides of Clarence, Cowper and Logan streets are removed and replaced with an entirely different smaller tree species or,
2. That 50 percent of the Pin Oaks - those which are underneath the existing overhead power lines, are removed and replaced with a different smaller tree species. 

Community feedback is sought by Council in respect of which of the two options is preferred and which of 6 alternate smaller tree species, is the preferred replacement.

It would appear Council has based its decision to put these proposals to the community because some of these Pin Oaks are ''currently affecting overhead power lines'' and ''others have or are about to reach their safe and useful life.'' 

We petition Tenterfield Shire Council as follows:

• Not to remove any of the Pin Oak trees on Clarence, Cowper and Logan Streets;

• To request Essential Energy cover the cost of placing the power lines underground in those streets or cover the cost of replacing traditional cabling with low voltage aerial bundled cable; and

• To replace any Pin Oak tree that is deemed to have reached the end of its life by a certified and independent arborist, with the same species of Pin Oak.

Please sign this petition to show your support for conserving these historic and majestic trees that form an integral part of our town's identity and environment. Together, we can make a difference to preserve not just our Pin Oak trees, but the heart of Tenterfield itself, for generations to come.