Petition to Save the Ted Bear Fig Tree and Provide Safe Walking and Cycling Access along proposed Broadwater Parkway Road.

Protect a Local Landmark – Save the Ted Bear Tree

The iconic Ted Bear Tree, the magnificent fig tree on Fraser Drive, is once again under threat of removal as part of Tweed Shire Council's proposed road works for the new Broadwater Parkway road.

This tree is far more than just a tree—it is an important part of our community's history. In 1975, it was saved from destruction when local resident Mr Ted Bear donated land to allow the road to be realigned. A plaque on the site recognises this significant contribution:

"Preserved by the donation of land by Mr Bear to realign this road in 1975."

The teddy bears displayed on the tree are not simply decorations—they represent the community's affection for a much-loved local landmark and commemorate the story behind its preservation.

The project's arborist has assessed the Ted Bear Tree using the TreeAZ method and given it the highest possible retention rating of AA1, stating that every effort should be made to retain the tree in a viable condition.

We respectfully ask Tweed Shire Council to select Option 1 – Large Diameter Roundabout on Fraser Drive with Tree Retention, allowing this historic tree to remain at the centre of the proposed roundabout while improving traffic safety. The consultancy for the Broadwater Parkway design and approvals is scheduled to conclude in late 2026, making this the ideal time for the community to have its voice heard.

Safe Walking and Cycling for Our Community

This project also presents an important opportunity to improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists.

There are currently no continuous footpaths or bike lanes along the busy Terranora Road between Mahers Lane and Fraser Drive. This route serves two major schools:

Lindisfarne Anglican Grammar School, with over 1,000 students and a DA coming for a junior school of an additional 300 students, 30 additional staff and 132 student bed accommodation.
Terranora Public School, with approximately 300 students. 

We ask Tweed Shire Council to include:

A continuous footpath along the new proposed Broadwater Parkway road between Mahers Lane and Fraser Drive. 
A dedicated bicycle lane along the same route. 
Providing safe walking and cycling infrastructure will benefit students, families, residents and the wider community by encouraging active transport, improving road safety and creating better connections throughout Terranora and Banora.

We Call on Tweed Shire Council to:

Retain the historic Ted Bear Tree by adopting Option 1 – Large Diameter Roundabout with Tree Retention. 
Protect this significant community landmark for future generations. 
Include a continuous footpath between Mahers Lane and Fraser Drive as part of the Broadwater Parkway project. 
Include a dedicated bicycle lane along the new road to provide a safe route for students and the wider community. 
Please sign this petition to help protect our local history, preserve our environment, and create safer walking and cycling connections for everyone.