A 16-meter-tall Algerian oak in Kingston, Victoria, is facing potential removal due to the proposed Western Renewables Link project. This tree, which has stood for over 130 years, features a 31-meter canopy that is a prominent part of the local landscape. The project aims to connect renewable energy sources in western Victoria to the power grid and establish a direct link between Victoria and New South Wales.

Local resident Jeremy Harper is spearheading efforts to protect the oak. He has organized rallies, started a petition, and nominated the tree for the National Trust's Tree of the Year competition. Harper believes that winning this title could help safeguard the tree. "It's just a magnificent tree," he said. "The lower branches are so big and so weighty, they actually rest on the ground." The oak is now one of nine finalists in the competition, which, while not providing legal protections, could raise awareness about its significance.

Harper expressed concerns that the Western Renewables Link project could endanger not only the oak but also the surrounding ecosystem, including species such as platypus and frogs that inhabit the nearby Birches Creek Nature Reserve. A spokesperson for the Western Renewables Link stated that an independent assessment of the project's environmental impacts is currently underway. "The Western Renewables Link is critical infrastructure to support Victoria's transition away from aging coal-fired power stations and towards cleaner, more reliable energy," the spokesperson said. They acknowledged the tree's importance to the community and indicated that they are investigating the matter.

The spokesperson also noted that they could not provide further comments while the independent inquiry is ongoing. Community concerns have been raised regarding AusNet's management of the project, particularly after landholders along the proposed route received compensation offers before the project was officially approved.

Despite these challenges, Harper remains determined to protect the oak. "We'll do everything we can to save it and to influence any politicians and the government to step in to save it," he said. The outcome of the Tree of the Year competition and the ongoing environmental assessment will be closely watched by the Kingston community as they advocate for the preservation of this historic tree.