What is the NT Register of Significant Trees?
The NT Register of Significant Trees was created in 1982 during the Australian Year of the Tree to highlight the importance of protecting trees as part of the Northern Territory’s natural and cultural heritage.
Originally developed by the National Trust NT in collaboration with Greening Australia NT, separate registers were created for Central Australia, Darwin and Katherine. Since 2011, Land for Wildlife Central Australia has taken on the role of managing the Central Australia register.
Over the past 35 years, the register has seen varied levels of interest and exposure. We’re now working to change that by increasing community awareness and involvement.
Why Trees are Listed
Trees are nominated to the register based on one or more of the following categories:
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Aesthetic- Exceptional visual appeal or beauty
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Size- Notable for height, trunk circumference, or canopy spread
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Age- Particularly old or venerable specimens
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Historical- Linked to an important event or historical context
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Cultural- Connected to a known figure or cultural group
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Unique Location- Contributes significantly to the landscape or townscape
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Rare- Uncommon or locally restricted species
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Horticultural Value- Valuable for genetic or propagating potential
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Physical Features- Unique or curious growth forms
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Group- A group or avenue of trees with shared significance
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Habitat- Important habitat for native flora and fauna
Trees may be native, exotic, cultivated or wild. They can be recognised for multiple reasons, including beauty, heritage, ecology or rarity.
How to Nominate a Tree
Anyone can nominate a tree- whether you’re an individual, part of a group, or a representative of a government agency.
To nominate a tree:
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Fill out the nomination form with as much information as possible
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Clearly describe the tree’s location (include a map or diagram if possible)
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Attach a photograph or slide of the tree
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Submit one form per tree or group of trees
Even if you don’t have all the details, your nomination is still welcome.
Download the Nomination Form
Email completed forms to lfw@lowecol.com.au or post to:
PO Box 3130, Alice Springs NT 0871
By contributing, you’re helping to protect a vital part of the Northern Territory’s natural and historical story.
The Online Register
Land for Wildlife has revitalised the Central Australia section of the NT Register of Significant Trees.
Since the register began in 1982, many listings have changed- some trees have been lost due to development or natural causes, while others were added during the 1990s. We’ve GPS-mapped current listings and developed an interactive online database.
Take a Virtual Tour
Explore the Significant Trees Register through our interactive Google Map.
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Click on map markers to view photos and details
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Zoom in to explore tree locations across the region
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For best viewing, click the fullscreen button
Open the map in a new tab: Significant Trees Register- Interactive Google Map
You can also view summaries and download region-specific fact sheets by clicking on the region tabs at the bottom of the page.
What’s Next?
We’re currently planning a health check of trees on the register. At present, the project is unfunded. We’re seeking support to assist with reassessments and updating the online records.
If you or your organisation is interested in funding or supporting this work, please get in touch.
Have new information about a listed tree? We’d love to hear from you.
Need More Info?
For more details about specific trees or nominations, contact Land for Wildlife Central Australia.
The NT Register of Significant Trees is managed by Land for Wildlife Central Australia on behalf of the National Trust NT.
Originally initiated by the National Trust NT with support from Greening Australia NT, the register has been coordinated by Land for Wildlife since 2011.
Explore the Individual Register Regions to learn more.
Resources