Victorian Trades Hall Council. The voice of Victorian workers since 1856.Victorian Trades Hall Council. The voice of Victorian workers since 1856.

Tree Of Knowledge – Labour Heritage update

8 August 2007

The poisoned stump of the famous Tree of Knowledge being removed (29.7.07)  for preservation for a future memorial display at Barcaldine QLD.

Over two years ago, the famous 200 year old Tree of Knowledge in Barcaldine, outback Queensland, was poisoned by persons or person unknown.

 

This treacherous act was carried out as John Howard was preparing his draconian ‘WorkChoices’ legislation.

 

The ghost gum entered into working class folklore back in 1891 when a group of Shearers gathered underneath it to plan a strike.

 

That strike, in conjunction with a maritime strike the previous year led to the eventual development of the ALP.

 

Last year the tree was officially declared dead after a number of attempts to save it.

 

The Beattie QLD ALP government has put forward $1.5 million to help create a lasting memorial, preserving the stump section and building a protective commemorative structure around it.

 

“There have been suggestions in some quarters that a reward be offered to catch the culprits who murdered the Tree of Knowledge”, Brian Boyd the VTHC Secretary said recently.  “Whoever it was who did it would have to be a ‘dyed in the wool’ arch conservative who hates working people and Australian social and political history”, added Mr Boyd.


More Archive

Powered By three squares