Mystery of the Metal Tree in Hunter Park – Solved!

The mystery ‘tree’ in Hunter Park

Locals have been scratching their heads (and a few conspiracy theories have blossomed) over the sudden appearance of a concrete and metal tree in Hunter Park. Is it a modern art statement? A secret alien communication tower? Or perhaps the world’s least shady tree?

At last, the truth is out.

According to Council, the tree is part of the Community Memorial Tree Project, developed to provide a respectful and consistent way for people to commemorate loved ones in public spaces. In the words of Council staff:

“The tree you are enquiring about is part of Council’s Community Memorial Tree project. Council frequently receives requests for memorial plaques and memorial seats, and Council understands that places can hold significant meaning to people, their family or friends who quite often are not able to visit a grave or have access to visit a lost loved one.”

 The Avoca tree is one of five newly installed memorial trees across the Central Coast, adding to the seven already in place. Each tree features 348 temporary leaves, which when purchased by community members, are replaced with inscribed bronze plaques in memory of a loved.

Council allocated $220,000 from its 2024/25 Capital Works Program for this initiative, averaging $44,000 per tree. At $940 a leaf, each tree could generate over $300,000 if all leaves are sold, making it both a community service and a tidy return on investment.

Council has advised that signage will be installed in the coming weeks to explain the tree’s purpose to curious passersby.

Avoca Beach Community Association was surprised that Council proceeded with the installation without community consultation. There are alternative locations in the town that might be considered more appropriate for quiet contemplation and remembrance of lost loved ones than Hunter Park.

 If you'd like to share your thoughts, or confirm it’s not a UFO docking station, you can contact:

Christie Flippence, Cemeteries Manager on christie.flippence@centralcoast.nsw.gov.au.