22. Elizabeth Bay

Significant Tree Listings

22. Elizabeth Bay

22.01 Beare Park

Address: Historical Notes Ithaca Road and The Esplanade, A number of these trees and palms are garden remnants from Elizabeth Bay the grounds of the Elizabeth Bay House estate and gardens, Ownership Type: and specifically the grounds of William John Macleay’s Linnean Park Society of NSW Hall built in 1885 (see ‘Boomerang’ – NSW State Owner/ Controlling Authority: Heritage Inventory) and also the gardens of and St Monan’s City of Sydney (later Tudor) which was constructed in 1876 on Lot 54 of the 1875 Year of planting (of oldest item / if known) subdivision of Elizabeth Bay estate and its neighbour Holmesby. c. 1876 These trees relate to a much larger colonial collection of botanical specimens, now scattered across a number of land titles since Scheduled Significant Trees subdivision of the former estate (refer to 34A Billyard Avenue, 36 Billyard Avenue ‘Berthong’ and 42 Billyard Avenue ‘Boomerang’ Qty Species Common Name and Elizabeth Bay Road listings in this Register and City of 5 Washingtonia robusta Washington Palms Sydney 2006 Beare Park Plan of Management and Landscape Master Plan). In 1882-84 W Sparke, the owner of St Monan’s, 1 Araucaria bidwillii Bunya Pine extended the area of reclamation supported by a sea wall and had a large, ornate conservatory and a large bush house almost 1 Flindersia australis Crows Ash hidden by vegetation built on the lowest level of the garden, now Ficus microcarpa var. 1 Hills Weeping Fig occupied by Beare Park.The conservatory stood at the end of hillii ‘an avenue of Araucarias and assorted conifers, Jacarandas, Tecomas, Magnolia fuscata and Magnolia grandiflora.’( Morris, Lost gardens of Sydney, 2008, p97) The Araucarias were large open-crowned trees when photographed in 1905 although an engraving of the conservatory in 1884 depicts them as very young trees.

Description The mature Bunya Pine (Araucaria bidwillii), has achieved substantial proportions under favourable conditions of moisture, good soils and protection from strong winds. The species was first described in 1843 (Hooker, W.J.). It is a highly ornamental rainforest tree with a distinctive, broadly spreading canopy and dramatic silhouette. This species was a prized and valued component of mid- to late nineteenth century gardens and parkland but is now relatively uncommon within the City of Sydney LGA. It was often planted with other native Australian rainforest pines. By the mid-nineteenth century, the gardens of Macleay’s Elizabeth Bay House estate were widely recognised in the Colony for their exceptional range of native pines (Araucaria spp.), figs (Ficus spp.) and other rainforest species. The Bunya Pine’s large woody cones (up to 30cm long) bearing edible seeds, were a major food source for local Aboriginal tribes in south-eastern Queensland. The size and weight of falling cones however raises public safety issues in a park setting and this needs to be addressed as part of ongoing management.

The group of Washington Palms (Washingtonia robusta) forms an outstanding collection in the park. These tall, exotic palms Figure 22.1.1 – The remaining Hill's Weeping Fig emerge above the combined tree canopies and reinforce the

eclectic, subtropical style of the Elizabeth Bay harbour-side precinct. These are historic and culturally significant components which are consistent with the local architectural character, particularly ‘Boomerang’, the grand Spanish Mission style residence located in Billyard Avenue. These palms are evocative of the southern Californian landscape and the 1920s Hollywood era, being a landmark species in places like Los Angeles and Santa Barbara.

Previously part of a pair, one Hills Weeping Figs (Ficus microcarpa var. hillii) is an individually significant specimens in terms of its massive size and scale. One Ficus microcarpa var. villi was removed and replaced in the same spot in mid 2011. The remaining specimen is amongst one of the larger examples of this species in the City of Sydney LGA. It is possible that it may date from the late nineteenth or early twentieth century following subdivision of the estate, but is most likely to have been planted during reconfigurations of the Park which occurred during the 1930’s. It is supportive and consistent with the overall thematic palette of the park, however, showing signs of decline Figure 22.1.2 – The tall grove of Washington Palms and the with considerable defoliation and dead wood evident in the Crows Ash (seasonally defoliated) upper canopy. The mature Crows Ash (Flindersia australis) is also likely to date from this period as it appears a relatively small tree in the 1943 aerial photo of the area. This durable, hardy and highly ornamental rainforest species reinforces the lasting legacy of lush evergreen, broadleaf rainforest trees dating from the early to mid-nineteenth century. This species has been used successfully as a street tree throughout the City of Sydney LGA including the Moore Park area and Cumberland Street, The Rocks (refer to listings in this Register).

The mature Camphor Laurel (Cinnamomum camphora) and Wild Olive (Olea europaea subsp. africana), located in the eastern portion of the reserve, were both introduced as ornamental species in the early nineteenth century but are likely to relate to Tudor’s later garden. These trees may have been planted or self-sown. The olive was a mature specimen in 1949 and situated within the footprint of the former conservatory. Although of historic and cultural significance, these evergreen trees are a vigorous colonising species. They are now considered exotic weeds in most situations and further colonisation should be controlled.

Statement of Significance The mature group of exotic Washington Palms (Washingtonia robusta) together with individual native rainforest specimens, the Bunya Pine (Araucaria bidwillii), Hills Weeping Fig (Ficus microcarpa var. hillii) and Crows Ash (Flindersia australis) form a significant remnant collection within this public foreshore Figure 22.1.3 – The last remaining Bunya Pine of a former row reserve. They have individual and group significance at the local planted in the early 1880's level in terms of their historic, visual, social and botanical values.

22.02 Macleay Reserve

Address: Historical Notes Elizabeth Bay Road (central island), Macleay Reserve is a small central island of open space at the Elizabeth Bay end of Elizabeth Bay Road. The grassed reserve is believed to Ownership Type: contain remnants of the once extensive gardens of Alexander Park and Eliza Macleay’s Elizabeth Bay House estate planted Owner/ Controlling Authority: throughout the latter part of the 19th century. City of Sydney Year of planting (of oldest item / if known) Description c. 1890 The Moreton Bay Figs (Ficus macrophylla) (8-14 metres height/ 12-16 metres canopy spread) are both ageing, stunted and Scheduled Significant Trees senescent specimens that have struggled under the previous drought conditions. They have been heavily pruned, and have Qty Species Common Name suffered defoliation and fig psyllid damage in the past. Their 2 Ficus macrophylla Moreton Bay Fig condition will need to be monitored, particularly during extended dry periods.

Statement of Significance These two trees have local significance in terms of their visual, historic and social values. These trees remain a vital part of a broader contiguous historic collection which stretches throughout the Elizabeth Bay area, including many of the adjoining private properties in Elizabeth Bay Road. They are further significant in terms of being located within a public open space as almost all of the collection occurs on privately-owned land (refer to listings in this Register).

Figure 22.2.1 – One of the remaining Moreton Bay Figs in the reserve

22.03 Reg Bartley Oval (inc Rushcutter's Bay Kindergarten) Historical Notes Address: The Oval was named in 1959 in recognition of Reg Bartley’s 18 Waratah Street, years as alderman and five as Lord Mayor. The fill on which the Rushcutters Bay Oval was built was the foundations of the old Sydney General Ownership Type: Post Office which was demolished in the 1860s. The Oval was Park completed and fenced by 1889. (http://www.dunbarrovers.com/ Owner/ Controlling Authority: news/news_read.asp?ID=1918# Accessed 24.9.12) City of Sydney Year of planting (of oldest item / if known) The larger figs in the park would appear to date from the c. 1890 earliest period of the parks development as they are easily distinguished as large specimens in 1920's and 1943 aerial Scheduled Significant Trees photos. The Norfolk Island Hibiscus (Lagurnaria patersonii) to the east of the tennis courts and the Plane Trees and other Qty Species Common Name plantings associated with the Kindergarten area and western 2 Platanus x acerifolia London Plane part of the park probably dating from around circa 1930's. The other scattered trees including the Black Bean, the American 4 Populus deltoides American Cottonwood Cottonwoods and the Kauri Pine appear to be the result of late 1940's to 1960's overlays. 2 Ficus macrophylla Moreton Bay Fig Ficus rubiginosa f. 3 Port Jackson Fig Description rubiginosa The Reg Bartley Oval, located adjacent to Rushcutters Bay, is Eucalyptus part of a larger parcel of contiguous open space which includes 1 River Red Gum camaldulensis parkland east of the canal, known as Rushcutters Bay Park 2 Phoenix canariensis Canary Island Date Palm (under the management of Woollahra Council). The park, 1 Agathis robusta Queensland Kauri Pine 1 Ficus obliqua Small-leaved Fig 6 Cinnamomum camphora Camphor Laurel Castenospermum 1 Blackbean australe 7 Lagurnaria patersonii Norfolk Island Hibiscus

Figure 22.3.1 – A London Plane Tree and the Canary Island Figure 22.3.2 – The substantial London Plane Tree near the Date Palms to the western side of the park Kindergarten

including the oval, grandstand and landscaping is scheduled in the City of Sydney Local Environmental Plan 2012. Waratah Street runs through the south-western edge of the public parkland. The land west of Waratah Street includes Rushcutters Bay Kindergarten, tennis courts and a small reserve adjacent to Queens Avenue.

The park contains an outstanding collection of trees, many of which have significance as individual specimens including a London Plane (Platanus x acerifolia) near the rear boundary of the Kindergarten, an American Cottonwood (Populus deltoides) in the adjoining reserve, a very large specimen River Red Gum (Eucalyptus camaldulensis), Small-leaved Fig (Ficus obliqua), Queensland Kauri Pine (Agathis robusta) and Blackbean (Castanospermum australe). One of the Moreton Bay Figs Figure 22.3.3 – Some of the earliest Figs planted in the park (Ficus macrophylla) in the north-eastern corner of the park is adjacent to the Canal in the south-east a particularly outstanding specimen with an expansive low- branching pattern (28 metres in diameter).

Figure 22.3.4 – Ruchcutters Bay with Reg Bartley Oval in the lower left foreground, circa early 1920's, wtihout trees apart from the Figs noted above near the canal. (Source : Australia Beautiful 1928, Photograph by Milton Kent)

Statement of Significance This late Victorian era and early twentieth century collection has important associations with the Botanic Gardens. Furthermore, these significant trees provide high visual, amenity and biodiversity values in this urban foreshore setting. It is scheduled in the City of Sydney Local Environmental Plan 2012. The collection is considered to have group significance at the City/ LGA level in terms of its visual, historic, and botanical values. Many of these trees are native rainforest species and they continue an important thematic style throughout this precinct and the City of Sydney LGA.

Figure 22.3.5 – The Blackbean

Figure 22.3.7 – The Camphor Laurel

Figure 22.3.6 – The River Red Gum Figure 22.3.8 – The Norfolk Island Hibiscus (Lagunaria)

22.04 Macleay Street

Address: Historical Notes Macleay Street, The original planting scheme possibly dates from the early Inter- Potts Point war period with further replacement tree planting at various Ownership Type: times since 1945. Most of the trees in the upper southern portion Street of Macleay Street tend to be of a younger age structure probably Owner/ Controlling Authority: from the 1960's, whereas the portion immediately north of City of Sydney Greenknowe Avenue contains the older specimens. Year of planting (of oldest item / if known) c. late 1930's Description These trees create a landscape of interlocking canopies with a Scheduled Significant Trees more or less contiguous, tunnel effect over the roadway. Qty Species Common Name The same avenue approach, planting palette, and similar age 57 Platanus x acerifolia London Plane structure has been carried through to neighbouring streets – Manning Street, Tusculum Street and Victoria Street (refer to listings in this Register). Successive phases of infill planting, using the same species each time, has continued to maintain a more or less contiguous canopy and overall integrity. This thematic planting style has created a distinctive urban and cosmopolitan character throughout the Potts Point - Kings Cross area.

Statement of Significance This avenue of London Planes (Platanus x acerifolia) is one of the more outstanding single species road-side planting schemes in the City of Sydney. The Macleay Street group and adjoining street tree planting are considered to have significance at both the local and broader City of Sydney LGA level due to the special combination of visual and social values.

Figure 22.4.1 – The London Plane Trees of Macleay Street

22.05 Manning Street

Address: Historical Notes Manning Street, Two older London Planes may date from the early twentieth Potts Point century period, probably the inter war period, most likely planted Ownership Type: at a similar time to that of the Planes in adjoining Macleay Street. Street The balance of trees within the avenue are comprised of much Owner/ Controlling Authority: younger infill planting dating from the 1960's. City of Sydney Year of planting (of oldest item / if known) Description c. late 1930's This group is a vital part of the broader local precinct planting of London Planes in neighbouring streets – Macleay Street, Scheduled Significant Trees Tusculum Street and Victoria Street (refer to listings in this Register). Qty Species Common Name 12 Platanus x acerifolia London Plane Statement of Significance This small avenue of London Planes (Platanus x acerifolia) is dominated by two very large specimens located adjacent to the State heritage listed Regency mansion, ‘Tusculum’ (1-3 Manning Road).

This street planting provides continuity of the thematic style and is considered to have significance at both the local and broader City of Sydney LGA level due to the special combination of visual and social values. The London Plane has become synonymous with the Potts Point – Kings Cross area of Sydney reinforcing its urban landscape character.

Figure 22.5.1 – The London Plane Trees of Manning Street

22.06 Tusculum Street

Address: Historical Notes Tusculum Street, This small avenue of London Planes (Platanus x acerifolia) Potts Point contains a mixed age structure with several larger older Ownership Type: specimens probably planted in the 1920's, with numerous Street younger trees, possibly dating from the late 1930's which are Owner/ Controlling Authority: clearly evident as semi-mature trees in 1943 aerial photographs. City of Sydney Year of planting (of oldest item / if known) Description c. 1920's The mature, single species avenue are ornamental deciduous trees that have historically been associated with street planting Scheduled Significant Trees in many urban areas, particularly commercial and business precincts around Sydney since the 1920's. They create a Qty Species Common Name cosmopolitan and leafy character to the Potts Point/ Kings 13 Platanus x acerifolia London Plane Cross area. They form an almost unbroken canopy to the street and many have defined leans out into the street, as they have grown away from the surrounding buildings within the narrow side walks.

Statement of Significance As in the Manning Street group, this avenue is a vital part of the broader local precinct planting of London Plane Trees throughout Potts Point. It provides an important contiguous link between Macleay Street and Victoria Street (refer to listings in this Register). This avenue is considered to have significance due to the special combination of aesthetic, visual, and social values. The narrow median strip planting of the Queensland Umbrella Tree (Schefflera actinophylla) introduces unnecessary and competing elements into this streetscape and is therefore considered intrusive in this context.

Figure 22.6.1 – The older London Plane Trees within the street

22.07 Victoria Street

Address: Historical Notes Victoria Street, This relatively long avenue of London Planes (Platanus x Potts Point acerifolia) contains a fairly consistent aged structure with Ownership Type: several larger older specimens probably planted in the 1920's in Street the middle sections of the street, with numerous younger trees, Owner/ Controlling Authority: possibly dating from the late 1930's which are clearly evident as City of Sydney semi-mature trees in 1943 aerial photographs. Year of planting (of oldest item / if known) c. 1930's Description The Victoria Street group has a distinctive aesthetic and visual Scheduled Significant Trees character which is continued through to other neighbouring streets – Manning Street, Tusculum Street and Macleay Street Qty Species Common Name (refer to listings in this Register). Victoria Street is possibly 72 Platanus x acerifolia London Plane the most outstanding of all this group due to its contiguous interlocking canopies and tunnel effect over the roadway and a more intimate mixed residential/ business scale reflective of the era the trees were planted. A few specimens of Oriental Planes (Platanus orientalis) have been planted randomly along the length of the street, and are assumed to be younger infill planting. These are not included in the listing.

Statement of Significance This avenue of London Planes (Platanus x acerifolia) is one of the most memorable single species road-side plantations in the City of Sydney LGA. In combination, these street trees are considered to have significance at both the local and broader City of Sydney LGA level due to the special combination of visual and social values.

The London Plane Tree is an important part of the historic landscape character of Potts Point and Kings Cross. Furthermore, there are relatively few examples of the mature, single species avenue of this age within the City of Sydney LGA apart from Bourke Street. The environment of overhead powerlines and a history of later alternate species selection have tended to compromise the overall composition and landscape heritage values.

Figure 22.7.1 – The London Plane Trees of Victoria Street

22.08 St Lukes Hospital

Address: Historical Notes 16-20 Roslyn Street, St Luke’s Hospital is of historic and aesthetic significance. It was Elizabeth Bay one of the first denominational, non Catholic, hospital in Sydney Ownership Type: and has provided health services and nursing care to the people Govt/Institution/Other of Sydney for over 90 years. The built form of St Luke's Hospital Owner/ Controlling Authority: is a historical essay on one site, on the development of hospitals, St Lukes Care and their architectural styles, during the twentieth century. The Year of planting (of oldest item / if known) site contains substantial buildings of note designed by prominent c. 1890's architects including Burcham Clamp, Joseland and Gilling, and Fowell McConnell and Mansfield. The site contains substantial Scheduled Significant Trees remains of early Victorian Houses Trebatha, Kenilworth and Lulworth and covers part of the early Barker and Macleay Estates Qty Species Common Name and retains some trees and landscape elements from this 1 Araucaria columnaris Cook Pine Victorian period. Kenilworth was built c.1869 for Henry Williams of Sydney on Lot 4 of the Roslyn Hall Estate subdivision. Ficus microcarpa var. 1 Hills Weeping Fig hillii The eclectic composition including a tall Araucaria accent, 1 Ficus rubiginosa Port Jackson Fig native rainforest species and other broadleaf exotics is typical of the late Victorian period and is likely to have been influenced by 1 Harpullia pendula Tulipwood Charles Moore (Director, Sydney Botanic Gardens 1848-1896). American Bull Bay 1 Magnolia grandiflora Magnolia Description The trees are generally located within very small gardens, planters and courtyards adjoining the main vehicular entry and car parking areas. The single Cook Pine (Araucaria columnaris), located near the main vehicular entry on Roslyn Street, is a dramatic specimen standing 30 metres+ in height. A stunted, gnarled specimen American Bull Bay Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora), located in an adjacent courtyard, would also date from the same period. This highly ornamental, exotic evergreen tree is an important component of many early planting schemes. A Port Jackson Fig (Ficus rubiginosa) dominates the vehicular entry area adjacent to the sandstone residence ‘Kenilworth’. This tree is 20 metres in height with a canopy spread of 16 metres. This is a fine specimen of substantial proportions. The Tulipwood (Harpullia pendula), located at the southern end of the car parking area, is a relatively uncommon, but highly ornamental native rainforest species from the north coast of NSW to north-eastern Queensland. This tree stands 12 metres high with a canopy spread of 12 metres. The Hill’s Weeping Fig (Ficus microcarpa var. hillii), located in the car parking area near the main building, is a massive specimen and one of the larger examples of this species in this precinct (26 metres in height/ 25 metres canopy spread and 2 metre diameter base). This tree is likely to be associated with a later phase of planting, possibly during the early Inter-War period.

Figure 22.8.1 – The extremely tall Cook Pine fronting Roslyn Street

Other component species include Lombardy Poplars (Populus nigra var. Italica), Camphor Laurels (Cinnamomum camphora) and a damaged Port Jackson Fig (Ficus rubiginosa) on the upper slope. A single massive Coral Tree (Erythrina x hybrida) also occurs near the car park entrance on Roslyn Gardens. Generally, these component species are considered to be important contextual elements and supportive of the scheduled listings.

Statement of Significance St Lukes Hospital contains an outstanding collection of trees which date from the mid-to late nineteenth century and early twentieth century. The site is scheduled in the City of Sydney Local Environmental Plan 2012. All of these trees have individual and group significance at the local level in terms of Figure 22.8.2 – The Tulipwood (Harpullia pendula) their aesthetic, visual, historic and social values. The Tulipwood is further significant for its botanic and rarity values, although it has commonly been used as successful street tree planting in recent years.

Figure 22.8.3 – The eclectic mix of trees surrounding the historic buildings of St Lukes Hospital

22.09 "Wayside Chapel" 29 Hughes Street

Address: Historical Notes 29 Hughes Street, Hughes Street is one of the oldest streets in the Potts Point Potts Point area. However 1943 aerial photographs do not indicate a tree Ownership Type: of any size was located at this point. It is more likely planted Govt/Institution/Other as part of beautification work in the post war period. It is now Owner/ Controlling Authority: integrally associated with the Wayside Chapel buildings which Uniting Church of Australia is a community service centre started in 1972 which ran for Year of planting (of oldest item / if known) many years as a 24 hour crisis centre pioneering this sort of c. 1950 work in Australia. The Wayside Chapel opened as a social experiment with Ted Noffs and the Uniting Church instrumental Scheduled Significant Trees in its beginning. Each year, thousands of people visit Wayside for assistance in gaining equitable access to essential health, Qty Species Common Name welfare and related services, passing next to and under this tree. American Bull Bay 1 Magnolia grandiflora Magnolia Description This single American Bull Bay Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora) is an outstanding mature example of this taxon. The Magnolia is now isolated within a highly urbanised context. This species, with its dense, evergreen foliage and large fragrant white flowers, has continued to be a highly valued and hardy ornamental since the early nineteenth century (refer to other listings of this species in this precinct including 97 Elizabeth Bay Road ‘Tresco’ and 93 Elizabeth Bay Road ‘Kincoppal’). A mature specimen growing in the Botanic Gardens was described in the NSW Horticultural Magazine, and Gardeners’ and Amateurs’ Calendar Volume I, 1864 (Horticultural Society of Sydney).

Statement of Significance This Magnolia has local significance as an individual specimen with aesthetic, visual, and social values. The tree may predate the existing building on this property but is likely to date from the late 1940's or 50's as the tree appeared quite established in 1975 aerial photos. This sculptured specimen of the American Bull Bay Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora) is an outstanding mature example of this species.

Figure 22.9.1 – The American Bull Bay Magnolia

22.10 "Bomera" & Tarana" 1 Wylde Street

Address: Historical Notes 1 Wylde Street, These ‘marine villas’ were constructed in an opulent, Italianate Potts Point style for two successive generations of the McQuade family. Ownership Type: ‘Bomera’ was designed by architect J F Hilly for William McQuade Private and built in 1856 with later extensions in 1876. By 1858, following Owner/ Controlling Authority: successive land purchases in this location, the estate stretched Private from Wylde Street to Victoria Street, including the harbour Year of planting (of oldest item / if known) foreshores along Woolloomooloo Bay. Harbour reclamation c. 1900 works further increased this land area. The northern portion of the site had extensive gardens and the land immediately to the Scheduled Significant Trees west served as a kitchen garden. Following the death of William McQuade in 1885, the ‘Bomera’ estate was divided between Qty Species Common Name the family. ‘Tarana’ was built in 1889 for Arthur Frederick Hale 1 Agathis robusta Queensland Kauri Pines McQuade and his family. In 1890, the state government acquired the south-western portion of the estate. By 1910, the entire Cupaniopsis 1 Tuckeroo McQuade property had been acquired by the state government anacardioides and in 1911 Cowper Wharf Roadway was constructed. With the addition of further road works and later extension of Garden Island Dockyard (1941) the marine villas were effectively isolated from the foreshores. The buildings were used as Naval Fleet Headquarters, Eastern Australian Command, during and after World War II. The Bomera & Tarana precinct still contains sites of archaeological significance relating to the former shoreline and gardens (Freeman, 2000/ NSW State Heritage Register and Australian Heritage Database). The garden remnants of ‘Bomera’ are now much reduced.

Access onto the property was not possible during the course of the study. A deciduous tree, believed to be a Lime or Linden (Tilia sp.), occurs in a small planter adjacent to the driveway of 3 Wylde Street. This specimen, although small in stature, may be of similar age to other early planting on this property. The group of three Washington Palms (Washingtonia robusta) are likely to be later additions, possibly during the Inter-War Period (c. 1915- 1940). These palms are considered to be supportive elements in this context.

Description The western garden is still dominated by a large Queensland Kauri Pine (Agathis robusta). This native pine is a highly ornamental rainforest species with a distinctive, broadly spreading canopy. This specimen has achieved substantial proportions and continues to make a dramatic statement despite damage to the crown and decline in vigour. This tree’s overall size, scale and age are exceptional given the difficult conditions of elevated exposure to winds and poor sandstone soils. The Queensland Kauri was a highly valued component of mid- to late nineteenth century gardens. It was often planted with other Figure 22.10.1 – The Tuckeroo is easily seen from the western side and Cowper Wharf Road below native Australian rainforest pines, such as the Norfolk Island Pine

(Araucaria heterophylla), Hoop Pine (Araucaria cunninghamii) Statement of Significance and Bunya Pine (Araucaria bidwillii). This species has also been The historic residences of ‘Bomera’ & ‘Tarana’ are located in a used extensively as a cabinet, furniture and flooring timber since very prominent, elevated position at the northern end of Potts colonial times. The Tuckeroo (Cupaniopsis anacardioides), a Point. The estate was originally connected to the harbour. Both native littoral rainforest species, is the only other remnant tree ‘Bomera’ & ‘Tarana’ are highly significant as substantially intact from this early period of development. Mature specimens of examples of a pair of adjacent waterfront Victorian villas and this species are somewhat rare in the City of Sydney LGA, with are scheduled on the Register of the National Estate, the State examples in the Royal Botanic Gardens and Australian Institute Heritage Register, City of Sydney Local Environmental Plan of International Affairs, 124 Kent Street, Millers Point (refer to 2012 and classified by the National Trust of Australia. Both trees listings in this Register). have individual significance at the local level in terms of their visual, aesthetic and historic values. Together this collection maintains a distinctive eclectic, rainforest and subtropical theme and is typical of the planting schemes of former large estates throughout the Elizabeth Bay and Potts Point area.

Figure 22.10.2 – The Queensland Kauri Pine and the Tuckeroo in the background together with more recent planting overlays

22.11 "Coonana" 42 Bayswater Road

Address: Historical Notes 42 Bayswater Road, Coonana as part of group comprising 40A - 42 Bayswater Elizabeth Bay Road and 35-41 Roslyn Street, is of local historic and aesthetic Ownership Type: significance. The twelve blocks of inter-war flats, centred along a Private thoroughfare, formerly known as Eaton Avenue, and built by one Owner/ Controlling Authority: developer, builder Arthur William Coleman, is unique within the Private City of Sydney. Although individually aesthetically neutral, as a Year of planting (of oldest item / if known) group the buildings are unified and distinctive, and in combination c. 1950's with the street and landscaping that runs between them, form a coherent streetscape that is enhanced by later palm planting. Scheduled Significant Trees The group of buildings are associated with a period of intensive residential flat development in the 1920s. Qty Species Common Name 15 Phoenix canariensis Canary Island Date Palm Description The Canary Island Date Palm became a popular exotic palm species during the early part of the twentieth century with its characteristic bold accent, dramatic scale, uniform growth pattern and tolerance to drought. Most of the palms mature and are planted very close the buildings and have trunk heights between 8-10m. They form a very enclosed and distinctive character and buffer between the adjoining units.

Other associates such as Kentia Palms (Howea forsteriana), a Date Palm (Phoenix dactylifera) and an unusual multi-stemmed, Dwarf Date Palm (Phoenix roebelenii), located in a central courtyard planter, further reinforce the exotic palm character and styling.

Figure 22.11.1 – The flanking Canary Island Date Palms at the Figure 22.11.2 – Close up of the flanking Canary Island Date entry off Bayswater Road Palms at the entry off Bayswater Road

Statement of Significance The group of buildings comprising 40A - 42 Bayswater Road and 35-41 Roslyn Street along with the thoroughfare formerly known as Eaton Avenue is unique within the City of Sydney. There is no known other residential flat development of the period in which one developer formed a street and constructed buildings along it. This informal avenue of Canary Island Date Palms (Phoenix canariensis) create a distinctive exotic character and sense of place to this gated pedestrian precinct. The palms, most of which appear to date from the Post-War period (c.1950-60), as they are not visible in 1943 aerial photos, are integral components of the clustered four-storey buildings (which are scheduled in the Local Environmental Plan 2012). Given this planting date and their current size it is conceivable, and likely, they were transplanted as semi-mature specimens.

Although none of these palms are of individual significance, together and as part of the unique building complex and streetscape they have group significance at the local level in terms of their visual, aesthetic, social and historic values. This species is also acquiring significance in terms of rarity value. In recent years, this species has been decimated in many public parklands due to introduced fungal pathogens in the soil and care should be taken to protect and manage these specimens.

Figure 22.11.3 – The internal character of this private street provided by the dense plam planting is unique and unusual within Sydney

Figure 22.11.4 – The internal character of this private street provided by the dense palm planting is unique and unusual within Sydney

22.12 No.34A Billyard Ave

Address: Historical Notes 34A Billyard Avenue, It is possible that this Moreton Bay Fig, together with a number Elizabeth Bay of other existing trees located on neighbouring properties, are Ownership Type: garden remnants from the grounds of Macleay’s Elizabeth Bay Private House estate and garden which once covered an area of over Owner/ Controlling Authority: 21 hectares (54 acres) (refer to 36 Billyard Avenue ‘Berthong’, Private 42 Billyard Avenue ‘Boomerang’, Beare Park, private listings Year of planting (of oldest item / if known) for Elizabeth Bay Road and Macleay Reserve in this Register). c. 1920's The Elizabeth Bay House gardens contained a vast collection of botanical specimens, including many rare and recent Scheduled Significant Trees introductions to the Colony. This particular site is near the original orchard and William John Macleay’s Linnean Society of Qty Species Common Name NSW Hall, which was built in 1885 (see ‘Boomerang’ – NSW 1 Ficus macrophylla Moreton Bay Fig State Heritage Inventory). The gardens were widely recognised for their outstanding collection of rainforest figs (Ficus sp.) and 1 Washingtonia robusta Washington Palm native and Pacific Island pines (Araucaria sp.). Given the small size of the tree in 1943 aerial photos it is more likely to have been planted when the stately homes in front of Elizabeth Bay House, along Billyard Ave, were subdivided and constructed in the 1920's & 30's.

Description This single mature, multi-trunk Moreton Bay Fig (Ficus macrophylla) is located within the front garden of this private residence. There is also a (Washingtonia robusta) located in the rear yard of this property fronting the harbour. Given the species and its size its is assumed to be from the same planting period.

A Queen Palm (Syagrus romanzoffiana), Canary Island Date Palm (Phoenix canariensis) and more recent additions including Alexandra Palms (Archontophoenix alexandrae) in the southern front garden, further support the eclectic, sub-tropical broadleaf character of the precinct, but are much more recent plantings.

Statement of Significance This native rainforest fig has achieved large proportions and is significant as an individual specimen with local aesthetic, visual, historic values. This tree is an important component of this streetscape. Due to the high value placed on views and the density of high-rise apartment development, there are very few larger specimen trees remaining in private gardens or public spaces in this harbour-side location.

In the context, the fig and Washington Palm (Washingtonia robusta) located in the northern garden both have significance Figure 22.12.1 – The Moreton Bay Fig fronting Billyard Avenue as an important historic association and component of the Elizabeth Bay landscape.

22.13 "Berthong" 36 Billyard Ave elements exist on this site, these native rainforest and exotic broadleaf species are present throughout other local private Address: gardens and public parkland as fragmented components of 36 Billyard Avenue, earlier planting schemes prior to subdivision (refer to 34A Elizabeth Bay Billyard Avenue, 42 Billyard Avenue ‘Boomerang’, Beare Park, Ownership Type: 93 Elizabeth Bay Road “Kincoppal” and Macleay Reserve in this Private Register). This particular tree remains a single dominant element Owner/ Controlling Authority: in the southern garden apart from two tall columnar Cypresses Private (Cupressus sp.) located near the front boundary. It is believed Year of planting (of oldest item / if known) that these Cypresses are later additions to the garden, possibly c. 1890 dating from the Inter-War period (c.1915-1940).

Scheduled Significant Trees Statement of Significance This mature Blackbean (Castanospermum australe) is a visually Qty Species Common Name prominent element in this streetscape and is amongst the larger Castanospermum examples of this species in the City of Sydney LGA. This tree is 1 Blackbean australe comparable in size to some individual specimens in the Domain, Royal Botanic Gardens and Reg Bartley Oval (refer to listing in Historical Notes this Register). It is believed that this Blackbean and a number Berthong, built c1886, and formerly known as Macleay House of other existing trees on neighbouring properties are garden and Beauregard, has historical and social significance for its remnants from the grounds of the Elizabeth Bay House estate association with a number of prominent Australian individuals or and specifically the grounds of William John Macleay’s Linnean families and architects over a period of 120 years including the Society of NSW Hall built in 1885 (see ‘Boomerang’ – NSW State Macleays, the Alberts, the Murdochs and the architectural firm Heritage Inventory). The 1943 aerial photographs of the area of Budden and Kent. The villa operated from c 1886 to c1900 illustrate this tree as a mature and substantial specimen and as one of the many private Ladies colleges to be established in one of the only mature plantings on the property at that time. It Sydney at this time. Berthong is a representative example of the has local significance as an individual specimen with aesthetic, type, style and standard of villa constructed on the waterfront historic and ecological values. 'Berthong' is scheduled in the City allotments leased from the Macleay Estate during the second of Sydney Local Environmental Plan 2012. half of the nineteenth century. A number of these villas survive along the northern side of Billyard Ave to produce a distinctive pattern of large villa dwellings in garden allotments when seen from Elizabeth Bay.

Description Access to the property was not possible during the course of this study, but the tree is clearly visible from the street. This mature Blackbean (Castanospermum australe), also known as the Moreton Bay Chestnut, is a highly ornamental evergreen native rainforest species. It has been used extensively in private gardens and public parkland since the early nineteenth century. A mature flowering specimen growing in the Botanic Gardens was described in an article of the NSW Horticultural Magazine, and Gardeners’ and Amateurs’ Calendar Volume I, 1864 (Horticultural Society of Sydney, p.41).

The Blackbean was often planted in association with other subtropical rainforest and exotic broadleaf species such as the native figs (Ficus spp.) and pines (Araucaria spp., Agathis sp. and Podocarpus sp.), Illawarra Flame Tree, Silky Oak, Figure 22.13.1 – The Blackbean Crows Ash, Firewheel Tree and others. Although none of these

22.14 "Boomerang" 42 Billyard Ave

Address: Historical Notes 42 Billyard Avenue, Governor Darling granted Colonial Secretary Alexander Macleay Elizabeth Bay 54 acres at Elizabeth Bay in 1826. From 1826-1926 the subject Ownership Type: land was part of the Macleay family's Elizabeth Bay estate garden, Private in which Alexander built his mansion in the 1830s to the west. Owner/ Controlling Authority: Built well before the house, the estate was widely considered at Private the time (1820s onward) as "the finest house and garden in the Year of planting (of oldest item / if known) colony" and had a number of areas, in gardenesque style. Its c. 1885? walled 'orchard /orangery' was the harbour-side part in which Boomerang was later constructed. Scheduled Significant Trees After Alexander's bankruptcy, his son George subdivided and Qty Species Common Name sold leaseholds between 1865-82. Billyard Avenue was formed 1 Mangifera indica Mango Tree to access some of the earliest allotments. In 1875 his cousin, William John Macleay, acquired the lease of blocks on the 1 Persea gratissima Avocado corner of Ithaca Road and Billyard Avenue. This allowed him to build his Macleayan Museum for his natural history collections, 1 Araucaria heterophylla Norfolk Island Pine which had been previously stored in Elizabeth Bay House. These collections were transferred to the Macleayan Museum at the University of Sydney in 1888. William John Macleay constructed a building for the Linnean Society of NSW on an adjacent block in 1885.

The existing residence known as ‘Boomerang’, built in 1926- 28 for the Albert family, was designed by architect Neville Hampson in the grand Californian Spanish Mission/ Hollywood style of the era. ‘Boomerang’ has historic, aesthetic and social significance as a relatively intact and rare example of this architectural and garden style. The gardens were designed by Max Shelley, possibly in association with Neville Hampson with later alterations by A.J. Doust.

The property has historic significance in containing landscape elements from the former Macleay Elizabeth Bay House garden and the 1920s ‘Boomerang’ development. The Macleay estate originally extended over more than 21 hectares (54 acres) and contained a vast botanical collection, including many rarely seen specimens from northern NSW, Queensland, the South-western Pacific Islands and further abroad. Two surviving notebooks methodically record new plant introductions, their sources and exchanges with many notable people such as William Macarthur of Camden Park and William Sharp Macleay’s natural history collectors in India. The gardens contained many exotic fruit trees from around the world. It is believed that a number of existing trees on this property and adjoining properties in Billyard Avenue are remnants from the former grounds of the Elizabeth Bay estate garden and specifically the grounds of William Macleay’s Linnean Society of NSW Hall (1885) (Read, S., pers. Figure 22.14.1 – The large Norfolk Island Pine on the harbour comm., 2004) (Carlin/HHT, 2000). Several trees possibly from side of the estate

the grounds of the Linnean Hall remain today including an old Statement of Significance avocado (Persea gratissima) and a large mango (Mangifera ‘Boomerang’, including the residence, gardens and trees, is indica) on the external southern (street-side) front wall on the scheduled on the Register of the National Estate, the State SE side of the entry gate. These trees are difficult to discern in Heritage Register, the Draft Local Environmental Plan 2011, photographs of the front garden of 1926 & 1929 (Read, S., pers. and classified by the National Trust of Australia (NSW). From comm., 24/12/2007). the 1820s period until subdivision between 1865 and 1882, the grounds were part of the Macleay’s Elizabeth Bay House estate. Description This location was the site of an orchard. Following subdivision The Mango remains a magnificent and densely crowned tree. of the estate, William John Macleay acquired the leasehold on It is possibly the largest specimen of this species in the City of blocks at the corner of Ithaca Road and Billyard Avenue and Sydney LGA. The Avocado however, appears to be in serious constructed a museum for his natural history collections. A decline and its overall shape and integrity has been seriously building for the Linnean Society of NSW was later constructed compromised by recent heavy pruning. The age of a very stunted on an adjacent block in 1885. Macadamia Nut (Macadamia integrifolia) located in the northern garden is unknown, but may date from the earliest period as an An old avocado (Persea gratissima) and a large Mango orchard. A more detailed assessment could not be undertaken (Mangifera indica) are possibly from the grounds of the Linnean as access to the property was not possible during the course of Hall remain. The Mango remains a magnificent and densely this study. crowned tree. It is possibly the largest specimen of this species in the City of Sydney LGA. The Avocado appears to be in serious In addition to these earlier elements, many of the subtropical trees decline. The Norfolk Island Pine (Araucaria heterophylla) in the and palms from the 1920s ‘Boomerang’ phase of development northern garden is a tall, emergent specimen and the most are still present. These include The Norfolk Island Pine visually prominent component of the garden when viewed from (Araucaria heterophylla), Queen Palm (Syagrus romanzoffiana), the harbour. This species is consistent with earlier Araucaria Canary Island Date Palm (Phoenix canariensis), Kentia Palm sp. planting in the bay area. These three trees, in particular are (Howea forsteriana), Sentry Palm (Howea belmoreana), Chinese significant in terms of their historic association and aesthetic Windmill Palms (Trachycarpus fortunei) and a Dwarf Date Palm contribution to the house and local area. (Phoenix roebelenii). Some of these species and others such as Alexandra Palms (Archontophoenix alexandrae) have been added since this period. The two Windmill Palms (9-10 metres clear trunk) located in the southern garden are amongst the largest known in the City of Sydney LGA. The relatively small, native Port Jackson Fig (Ficus rubiginosa f. rubiginosa), located in the south-western corner of the garden, may have been self- sown at some later stage. Other later additions to ‘Boomerang’ including a formal row planting of Bhutan Cypress (Cupressus torulosa) around the reflective pool, are to some degree consistent with the Spanish Mission styling/ Moorish influence of the entry and porte cochere.

This overall eclectic subtropical palette, dominated by exotic palms, retains a strong thematic landscape character. It is evocative of the Hollywood era and the Spanish Mission style of southern California. Moreover, the significance of the collection lies in the historic, cultural and social overlays from grand colonial estate to the Hollywood/ Californian influence of the 1920s. This is a recurring theme throughout this precinct. Figure 22.14.2 – The large Mango adjacent to the Billyard Avenue frontage

22.15 "Birtley Towers" 8 Birtley Place

Address: Historical Notes 8 Birtley Place, The building was built in 1933 to a design by Emil Sodersten, Elizabeth Bay who had previously worked with Walter Burley Griffin and Eric Ownership Type: Nicolls, and the design shows these influences. Private Owner/ Controlling Authority: The larger Moreton Bay Fig is potentially the last remnant of Private a former nineteenth century garden. The largest one near the Year of planting (of oldest item / if known) entry gates was clearly evident in 1943 aerial photos as a well c. 1900 established tree. The smaller one appears to be a later planting. The larger Moreton Bay Figs appear to be part of a wider planting Scheduled Significant Trees of similar trees on the site that were present in the early 1900's but were later removed and replaced with the Hill’s Weeping Figs Qty Species Common Name which appear to be planted after 1943. The Hill’s Weeping Figs 3 Ficus macrophylla Moreton Bay Fig are likely to be associated with a Post War period planting phase of the 1950, or 60's, which was typical for this species. Ficus microcarpa var. 5 Hills Weeping Fig hillii Description This mixed row planting of Moreton Bay Figs (Ficus macrophylla) and Hill’s Weeping Figs (Ficus microcarpa var. hillii) are located within the grounds of the Inter-War Art Deco style apartment building, ‘Birtley Towers’ (scheduled in the Local Environmental Plan 2012). The row of figs follows a prominent ridge-line at the end of Birtley Place cul-de-sac, above Elizabeth Bay Road. The row planting extends beyond the property boundary with one specimen, a Moreton Bay Fig, located on the public verge near the entry gates. The elevated position above Elizabeth Bay Road effectively amplifies the size and scale of these trees. Together their combined canopies create an impressive vista and tunnel- like effect over this section of the roadway. The Hill’s Weeping Figs have been planted very close together creating a high level of competition and crowding to all of the trees. They are significant as a group.

Statement of Significance The Moreton Bay Fig near the entry gates has achieved massive proportions and is significant as an individual specimen, possibly associated with an earlier garden and dating from the early 1900's. All of the other trees are significant in the context of the broader group planting. In combination, the figs have significance at the local level in terms of their aesthetic, and historic values.

These figs are important historical components of the Elizabeth Bay landscape being typical of late nineteenth and mid twentieth century planting. They continue a lush, native broadleaf evergreen theme and provide good ornamental and amenity value in this urban setting and for their association with Birtley Figure 22.15.1 – The Moreton Bay Figs near the southern entry Towers. with the row of Hill's Weeping Figs behind

22.16 "Salamanca" 53-55 Elizabeth Bay Road

Address: Historical Notes 53-55 Elizabeth Bay Road, It is not known when this Fig was planted. Assessment of 1943 Elizabeth Bay aerial photos would indicate that it was not present prior to this Ownership Type: time and is likely to have been planted following the construction Private of the current apartments assumed to be some time in the Owner/ Controlling Authority: 1960's. Private Year of planting (of oldest item / if known) Description c. 1960 This single Moreton Bay Fig (Ficus macrophylla), a native of east coast rainforests, is located within the front garden of Scheduled Significant Trees the ‘Salamanca’ apartment building near the intersection of Elizabeth Bay Road, Ithaca Road, Roslyn Gardens and adjacent to Holdsworth Avenue. Qty Species Common Name 1 Ficus macrophylla Moreton Bay Fig Statement of Significance The fig is significant as an individual specimen with local aesthetic and visual values and its continuation of the historic planting theme of large figs in Elizabeth Bay, although it is only a relatively recent planting. This specimen has achieved a substantial and mature size with the canopy extending partially over the roadway. Due to its prominent position, it makes a significant contribution to the visual and aesthetic character of this streetscape and intersection.

Figure 22.16.1 – The Moreton Bay Fig

22.17 "Adereham Hall" 71 Elizabeth Bay Road

Address: Historical Notes 71 Elizabeth Bay Road, This fig is likely to be a remnant of the once extensive gardens Elizabeth Bay of Alexander and Eliza Macleay’s Elizabeth Bay House estate. Ownership Type: If not directly part of the Macleay planting it is certainly from a Private similar era and is clearly evident as a mature tree in 1943 aerial Owner/ Controlling Authority: photos. It is likely to have been planted at the same time as Private similar planting of other Moreton Bay Figs in nearby Macleay Year of planting (of oldest item / if known) Reserve. c. 1890 This large growing species was used as a major landscape Scheduled Significant Trees element throughout much of the nineteenth century and remains an important and defining landscape element in the Elizabeth Qty Species Common Name Bay harbour-side precinct. The magnificent scale and broad 1 Ficus macrophylla Moreton Bay Fig dense evergreen canopies of these figs were ideally suited to grand garden schemes.

Description This tree is a Moreton Bay Fig (Ficus macrophylla), located within the front garden of the ‘Adereham Hall’ apartment building. This tree has achieved substantial proportions and scale with the canopy extending over the roadway. It has an approximate height of 16-18m and a spread of 22-25m with a trunk diameter at 1.0m above the ground of 1.8m

Statement of Significance The large Moreton Bay Fig (Ficus macrophylla), located within the front garden of the ‘Adereham Hall’ apartment building, makes a significant contribution to the visual and aesthetic character of this local streetscape. Similar examples of mature remnant figs can be found throughout the Elizabeth Bay precinct (refer to the adjoining Macleay Reserve and listings for 53-55, 85-91, 93 and 97 Elizabeth Bay Road in this Register). This specimen is now contained within a very small parcel of private open space, but remains as a significant historic element from this earlier phase of development.

Figure 22.17.1 – The Moreton Bay Fig

22.18 "Ercildoune" 85-91 Elizabeth Bay Road

Address: Historical Notes 85-91 Elizabeth Bay Road, It is not known when this Fig was planted. Assessment of 1943 Elizabeth Bay aerial photos are inconclusive as to whether this tree was Ownership Type: present prior to this time, and if it was, it was reasonably small. It Private is therefore likely to have been planted post 1920's at the earliest Owner/ Controlling Authority: or possibly following the construction of the current apartments Private assumed to be some time in the 1960's. Year of planting (of oldest item / if known) c. post 1920's This large growing species was used as a major landscape element throughout much of the nineteenth century and remains Scheduled Significant Trees an important and defining landscape element in the Elizabeth Bay harbour-side precinct. The magnificent scale and broad Qty Species Common Name dense evergreen canopies of these figs were ideally suited to 1 Ficus macrophylla Moreton Bay Fig grand garden schemes.

Description This tree is a Moreton Bay Fig (Ficus macrophylla), located within a confined rear garden area of the apartment complex. This tree has achieved substantial proportions and scale. It has an approximate height of 16-18m and a spread of 22-25m with a trunk diameter at 1.0m above the ground of 1.2m. Canopy and root zone extends beyond the property’s rear garden to adjoining properties 79 Elizabeth Bay Road (north-eastern corner) and 81 Elizabeth Bay Road (south-eastern corner). This fig appears to be in good health and condition with some minor pruning and alignment of the canopy.

Statement of Significance The large Moreton Bay Fig (Ficus macrophylla), located within the rear garden of the ‘Ercildoune’ apartment building, makes a significant contribution to the visual and aesthetic character of this development, although it is not readily seen from the street, it would certaininly screen and soften the apartment complex when viewed from the harbour. Similar examples of mature remnant figs can be found throughout the Elizabeth Bay precinct (refer to the adjoining Macleay Reserve and listings for 53-55, 85-91, 93 and 97 Elizabeth Bay Road in this Register). This specimen is now contained within a very small parcel of private open space, but continues the landscape character and theme of more significant historic elements from earlier phases of development in Elizabeth Bay.

Figure 22.18.1 – The Moreton Bay Fig

22.19 "Kincoppal" 93 Elizabeth Bay Road

Address: Historical Notes 93 Elizabeth Bay Road, John Hughes (1825-1885), grocer, property developer and Elizabeth Bay Catholic benefactor, was born on 24 June 1825. Having Ownership Type: purchased land at Elizabeth Bay in 1869, over the next five years Private Hughes built an elegant residence, which he named Kincoppal Owner/ Controlling Authority: (Erse for sea-horse) after a rock formation in the harbour nearby. Private In 1882 the Pope appointed him knight of the Order of St Gregory; Year of planting (of oldest item / if known) he was later promoted knight commander but before receiving c. 1880 the brief died at his home on 29 June 1885. He was survived by his wife, two sons and four daughters, two of whom became Scheduled Significant Trees Sisters of the Sacred Heart. Kincoppal was bequeathed to the elder, Maria (1858-1951). Qty Species Common Name 3 Ficus macrophylla Moreton Bay Fig The religious order of the Sacred Heart established a Convent School in 1903, in Bourke Street, Darlinghurst, on the site 1 Araucaria bidwillii Bunya Pine where St. Margaret's Hospital now stands. In 1909 the school moved to Elizabeth Bay, Kincoppal having been left to Mother 1 Podocarpus elatus Plum Pine Maria Hughes by her father. They welcomed their first pupils Lepidorrhachis 3 Little Mountain Palm at Kincoppal at Elizabeth Bay in 1909. Hughes's sons (Sir) mooreanum Thomas and John and their descendants were prominent in law 1 Ficus rubiginosa Port Jackson Fig and politics in Sydney in the next century.

The Convent of the Sacred Heart at Rose Bay, was founded in 1882. In 1971 the two schools were amalgamated on the Convent of the Sacred Heart campus at Rose Bay and became known as Kincoppal-Rose Bay, School of the Sacred Heart. It is assumed that it was in the 1970's that the Elizabeth Bay site was sold and redeveloped as apartments. The original Kincoppal house was

Figure 22.19.1 – The grand Kincoppal residence (left) in 1875, soon after its construction (Source: State Library of NSW - American & Australasian Photographic Company series - Call No. ON 4 Box 74 No199)

largely retained. The landscape and grounds would, however, have been substantially modified at this time.

The three Little Mountain Palms (Lepidorrhachis mooreanum syn. Clinostigma mooreanum), planted in association with some Kentia Palms (Howea forsteriana) and immediately west of the Moreton Bay Fig (Fig X), are of particular botanic and scientific significance. These small, slow growing, feather-leaved palms have their origins in the high altitude mossy forests of Mt Lidgbird and Mt Gower, Lord Howe Island. This species of palm is rarely cultivated and has never been a commercially viable species. These specimens standing at only 2-3 metres clear trunk height are tall for this species. The palms are likely to have associations with the Macleay’s Elizabeth Bay House gardens and Charles Moore. They are the only known specimens of this species in the City of Sydney LGA, apart from those held in the Royal Botanic Gardens. Charles Moore, Director of the Royal Botanic Gardens (1848-1896), visited Lord Howe Island briefly in 1869 and reported in the Gardeners Chronicle (Sept. 1869) the occurrence of four kinds of palms.

Description The group of trees in the upper western garden, near the entry gates, is dominated by an ageing Moreton Bay Fig (Ficus Figure 22.19.2– The Bunya Pine at the entry macrophylla), Bunya Pine (Araucaria bidwillii), Plum Pine (Podocarpus elatus) and American Bull Bay Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora). The Moreton Bay Fig (Ficus macrophylla) was a key element of many early planting schemes on larger estates prior to subdivision. Two other Moreton Bay Figs of much larger scale and proportions occur on this property (northern and eastern gardens) and appear to be of similar age to this smaller, stunted specimen. It is believed that this significant botanical collection of native rainforest species is a remnant of the once extensive gardens of Alexander and Eliza Macleay’s Elizabeth Bay House estate.

The Bunya Pine (Araucaria bidwillii) is relatively uncommon within the City of Sydney LGA. It is a highly ornamental rainforest tree with a distinctive, broadly spreading canopy and dramatic silhouette. It was often planted with other native Australian rainforest pines. The native Plum Pine (Podocarpus elatus) tends to be a much smaller growing species, however it is a common associate of these nineteenth century collections. Although relatively small in stature and now in decline, these trees still retain a dramatic presence creating a distinctive sense of place. The combination of exposed eastern ridge-top location, poor sandstone soils and low moisture holding capacity have shaped and limited these hardy rainforest species over time. The ‘Kincoppal’ development has further altered their environment and each of these specimens are now requiring sensitive Figure 22.19.3 – The botanically significant Little Mountain arboricultural solutions to improve their viability and status. Palm (Lepidorrhachis mooreanum) within dense gardens along the western boundary

This historic composition is further supported by other typical inter-linked, stunted specimens (up to only 5-7 metres in height) associates such as Washington Palm (Washingtonia robusta), occur along the most north-easterly point of the property. These Chinese Fan Palm (Livistona chinensis) and Camphor Laurels figs overhang a large sandstone outcrop and form a contiguous (Cinnamomum camphora), since removed. All of these massed canopy, approximately 25 metres in length. A similar components would date from the late nineteenth to early massing of Port Jackson Figs, albeit usually smaller in scale, twentieth century. occurs in a number of locations throughout the study area, particularly along sandstone cliff cuttings in The Rocks and There are three Little Mountain Palms (Lepidorrhachis Glebe areas. mooreanum syn. Clinostigma mooreanum), planted in association with some Kentia Palms (Howea forsteriana) immediately east of Statement of Significance the Moreton Bay Figs on the western boundary. These small, This eclectic, subtropical collection of mature native Australian slow growing, feather-leaved palms have their origins in the high rainforest pines, broadleafs and palm species has significance altitude mossy forests of Mt Lidgbird and Mt Gower, Lord Howe at the local level in terms of their aesthetic, visual, historic, Island. These specimens standing at only 2-3 metres clear trunk cultural, social, botanic and biodiversity values. height are tall for this species. Charles Moore, Director of the Royal Botanic Gardens (1848-1896), visited Lord Howe Island briefly in 1869 and reported in the Gardeners Chronicle (Sept. 1869) the occurrence of four kinds of palms. The most common species across the island were the Kentia (or Thatching) Palm (Howea forsteriana) and Sentry (or Curly) Palm (H. belmoreana). At an elevation of about 500 metres, the rare Umbrella Palm (Hedyscepe canterburyana) was encountered. Moore went on to say that “…on the tops [of the two high mountains] another and smaller species of palm than any of the preceding kinds is said to grow in very great abundance…I speak of this palm only from hearsay, as neither I, nor any of the party who visited the island with me, succeeded in reaching either of the mountain’s tops”. This palm species was later named in honour of Charles Moore.

Furthermore, a very old Port Jackson Fig (Ficus rubiginosa f. rubiginosa) growing on the eastern mid-level terrace is believed to be a possible indigenous remnant or regrowth and part of the former open-forest/ woodland community on these sandstone cliffs. A massive base of aerial and coalesced roots cascade over sandstone rock outcrops. The fig has seven major trunks emerging over the embankment and covering an area of 30 metres in diameter. The expansive canopy hangs over the embankment, like a veil, to the high-water mark. The fig is of great visual prominence on this section of Macleay Point and can be seen from many public vantage points around Rushcutters Bay (including Reg Bartley Oval – refer to listing in this Register) This Port Jackson Fig creates a dramatic sense of place and scale to this location. This fig has individual significance at the local level in terms of its high visual, aesthetic, scientific and biodiversity values. Furthermore, this tree continues the lush, native evergreen and broadleaf theme typical of nineteenth century planting in this location.

It is also important to note the number of smaller Port Jackson Figs scattered along these foreshore cliffs. These are all local native colonisers of this disturbed site. In particular, a number of Figure 22.19.4 – The Port Jackson Figs growing in the escarpment fronting the harbour

22.20 "Tresco" 97 Elizabeth Bay Road

Address: Historical Notes 97 Elizabeth Bay Road, Tresco is signifiant as one of the few surviving original land Elizabeth Bay parcels created in the 1867 subdivision of the Elizabeth Bay Ownership Type: Estate at Macleay Point, and for the unusal manner in which Private the Estate was sold. The property is significant for its historical Owner/ Controlling Authority: associations with George Macleay who was responsible for the Private subdivision and James Macarthur- Onslow, who held the title Year of planting (of oldest item / if known) until 1922. It has state significance as a Victorian villa in the c. 1870 Italianate style which retains its architectural integrity as an intact and rare example of the fine residences that once characterised Scheduled Significant Trees Macleay Point. It is significant as an example of craftsmanship and construction techniques used in the mid to late nineteenth Qty Species Common Name century and relatively recent conservation and restoration works 3 Ficus macrophylla Moreton Bay Fig (1991-1997). The house, garden and waterfront structures make an important contribution to the character of the area, forming 1 Ceratonia siliqua Carob Bean a prominent element in the landscape of Elizabeth Bay from American Bull Bay the Harbour. The property is associated with prominent Sydney 1 Magnolia grandiflora Magnolia architect Thomas Rowe and also George Wesgarth. Rowe designed and constructed the original house in 1867 whilst Wesgarth was responsible for the only significant additions and alterations to the villas as well as the garden layout and landscape elements in 1883.

Figure 22.20.1 – "Tresco" residence (centre) in 1875, soon after its construction (Source: State Library of NSW - American & Australasian Photographic Company series - Call No. ON 4 Box 74 No199)

A terraced garden to the north of Tresco slopes down to the (American & Australasian Photographic Company, Holtermann harbour. The garden features a tall timber mast and a well Collection, ON 4 Box 74 No 199, NSWSL c. 1870-1875) would landscaped and established garden, including four mature fig suggested that the upper Moreton Bay Fig may date from the trees. There is the summerhouse and fernery at the western period following construction of ‘Tresco’ (1868) at which time boundary, as well as concrete and brick pathways, which lead there was significant landscaping of the grounds, including down to the bay, and the former boat pound, boathouse and jetty terracing, with a number of young trees evident in the location of (Brooks, 1997, 76). the fig. Although not visible in the above photo it is assumed the Carob Bean (Ceratonia siliqua) and American Bull Bay Magnolia The Moreton Bay Fig (Ficus macrophylla) was a key element of (Magnolia grandiflora) would have also been planted after many early planting schemes on larger estates prior to subdivision Tresco's construction. Aerial photos from 1943 indicate relatively (refer to other listings in Elizabeth Bay Road and Billyard Avenue small trees in these positions, commensurate with these species in this Register). The other two scheduled Moreton Bay Figs slow growth and a planting in late 1800's. The Fig is clearly a are much smaller in stature and may be associated with later very large and established tree at this time, as are the two lower foreshore reclamation works to the property. Nevertheless, these but smaller figs. two figs have group significance within the overall composition. The Carob Bean or St John’s Bread was introduced to It has been previously suggested that the largest Moreton Sydney as grafted specimens brought from Cyprus in the Bay Fig, together with the Carob Bean (Ceratonia siliqua) and mid-nineteenth century (NSW Horticultural Magazine, Volume American Bull Bay Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora), are the last III, 1866). This species was often planted in churchyards and surviving remnants from the former gardens of the Elizabeth large church-owned estates in the Colony. This was due to its Bay House estate. A photo of the Elizabeth Bay mansions biblical associations within the Holy Lands and its use as a food

Figure 22.20.2 – The larger Moreton Bay near the house

source (edible pods) by St John the Baptist during his time in the ‘Tresco’, including the residence, grounds and trees, is wilderness. This species is now relatively uncommon in the City scheduled on the State Heritage Register, the Sydney Local of Sydney LGA. The other scheduled specimen, an American Environmental Plan 2012, and classified by the National Trust Bull Bay Magnolia, with its very large fragrant white flowers, was of Australia. The Moreton Bay Fig (Ficus macrophylla), located a highly-prized ornamental tree during the nineteenth century. It on the upper north-east facing terrace is a magnificent tree and remains a relatively common remnant of larger former gardens one of the most outstanding individual specimens to occur on throughout the City of Sydney LGA. private property within the City of Sydney LGA. It is a particularly prominent specimen in this elevated location on Macleay Point Description and is clearly visible from many public vantage points around The Moreton Bay Fig (Ficus macrophylla), located on the upper Rushcutters Bay. north-east facing terrace is a magnificent tree. This native rainforest fig is significant within the context of the City of Sydney The Carob Bean (Ceratonia siliqua) and American Bull Bay local government area as an individual specimen with special Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora) are likely to have been planted aesthetic, visual, cultural, historic and social values. The fig after Tresco's construction but are likely to be from the late1800's. has achieved massive proportions and its canopy completely dominates the upper eastern terrace lawns of ‘Tresco’.

The Carob Bean (Ceratonia siliqua) is single specimen in the western upper front garden adjacent to the sandstone boundary wall fronting Elizabeth Bay Road. It is a relatively small tree 6-7m in height with a spread of approximately 8-10m and a trunk diameter at 1m above ground level of 0.7m

The American Bull Bay Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora) is located adjacent the driveway in the western upper front garden, approximately 10m in height with s spread of 7-8m. The 2005 Register noted the tree as a sparse open canopy and some deadwood. This is still the case, with relatively extensive tip dieback evident in the tree.

Statement of Significance Tresco including its grounds and trees, is significant as a substantially intact example of a Victorian waterfront villa and estate. The original Italianate style villa was designed by prominent architect, Thomas Rowe (1867) with later additions by George Westgarth, including garden layout and landscape elements (1883). The property was the principal residence of the Captain-in-Charge of HMAS Naval Establishments in Sydney from 1903 and the Flag Officer-in-Charge of the Royal Australian Navy since 1913. Tresco has further significance in terms of its historic, cultural and social links with the original land grant to Alexander Macleay. From the 1820s period until subdivision in 1867, the grounds were part of Macleay's Elizabeth Bay House estate. Tresco remains as one of the few surviving original land parcels dating from this time of subdivision by George Macleay.

Figure 22.20.3 – The Carob Bean near the front entry off Elizabeth Bay Road

22.21 "Templeton" 3 Holdsworth Avenue

Address: Historical Notes 3 Holdsworth Avenue, The American Bull Bay Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora) is Rushcutters Bay an exotic evergreen broadleaf species which has been used Ownership Type: extensively in private gardens and public parkland throughout Private the City of Sydney LGA since the early nineteenth century. Owner/ Controlling Authority: Mature specimens growing in the Botanic Gardens and large Private private estates, such as ‘Craigend’ were described in a number Year of planting (of oldest item / if known) of articles of the NSW Horticultural Magazine, and Gardeners’ c. 1880-1890 and Amateurs’ Calendar Volumes I-II, 1864-65 (Horticultural Society of Sydney). Scheduled Significant Trees It appears to be present as a large tree in the 1943 aerial photos Qty Species Common Name of the area and would therefore support its planting date being American Bull Bay 1 Magnolia grandiflora some time in the late 1800's. Magnolia Description The American Bull Bay Magnolia (Magnolia grandiflora) is a large and excellent example of the species. It is approximately 15m in height with a spread of 10m and a trunk diameter of 0.7m at 1.0 m above the ground. It appears to be in very good condition.

There are also two closely clustered, self-sown Port Jackson Figs (Ficus rubiginosa f. rubiginosa), located on the upper northern sandstone wall and property boundary, which are prominent specimens. These multi-trunk, native figs have a combined canopy of 18 metres in diameter and extensive aerial roots which descend the wall. They support the scale and character of the location and are important contextual components in the broader Elizabeth Bay landscape but are not listed as significant items.

Statement of Significance This tree has local significance as an individual specimen with aesthetic, visual, and historic values. It is believed that this Magnolia may be a remnant from the former gardens of the Elizabeth Bay House estate or possibly later period following subdivision (between 1865 and 1882).

Figure 22.21.1 – The Magnolia on the planted embankments fronting Reg Bartley Oval reserve below

22.22 "Chatsbury" 6-8 Ithaca Road

Address: Historical Notes 6-8 Ithaca Road, This native, rainforest tree is an important historical species in Elizabeth Bay the context of Elizabeth Bay, however this tree was not present Ownership Type: from evidence gleaned from the 1943 aerial photo of the area. Private It is likely this tree was either self sown or planted sometime in Owner/ Controlling Authority: the 1950's. Private Year of planting (of oldest item / if known) Description c. 1950's This mature Moreton Bay Fig (Ficus macrophylla) is located in a raised garden bed between the driveway and the property Scheduled Significant Trees boundary of 12 Ithaca Road. It is possibly the tallest specimen fig in the Elizabeth Bay precinct. The sheltered gully location, Qty Species Common Name deep soils, north-facing aspect and surrounding high-rise 1 Ficus macrophylla Moreton Bay Fig apartments, have provided the ideal conditions for this species. Most Moreton Bay Figs in the study area have multiple trunks and tend to be much shorter in stature. This fig, by comparison, has only a single and relatively straight trunk and has achieved a remarkable height and scale in this location. It is however largely hidden from public view due to the height of neighbouring development and surrounding trees.

It is estimated at 28m in height with spread in excess of 20m. It has a trunk diameter at 1m above ground of 1.2m. It has had many of its lower branches pruned. It appears in good health and vigour.

Statement of Significance This mature Moreton Bay Fig (Ficus macrophylla) is significant as an individual specimen with local aesthetic and visual values. It is extremely tall and provides a valuable landscape buffer between the modern apartments. It is also reflective of the historic landscape character of the Elizabeth Bay area, even though not dating from the late 1800's.

Figure 22.22.1 – The Moreton Bay Fig

22.23 "Habitat" 1 McDonald Street

Address: Historical Notes 1 McDonald Street, The Moreton Bay Fig (Ficus macrophylla) was a key element Potts Point of many early planting schemes on larger estates prior to Ownership Type: subdivision and urban development (refer to listings in Elizabeth Private Bay Road and Billyard Avenue in this Register). A tree of Owner/ Controlling Authority: reasonably substantial proportion is clearly evident in the 1943 Private aerial photo of the area and is believed to be the same tree. It is Year of planting (of oldest item / if known) associated with a formal garden of a now demolished mansion c. 1900 style house.

Scheduled Significant Trees Description Access onto the property was not possible during the course of Qty Species Common Name the study, but it was visible from the adjoining McDonald Lane. 1 Ficus macrophylla Moreton Bay Fig The mature Moreton Bay Fig (Ficus macrophylla) is situated in an elevated western position on the Potts Point ridge-line within the grounds of the high-rise apartment block ‘Habitat’. It is in the north-western, elevated courtyard and lawn area adjacent to the swimming pool and high-rise apartment building.

This fig appears to be in good health and condition with a dense canopy and good health and vigour. Some pruning adjacent to apartment block has occurred to lower and mid-lateral branches. It has a height of approximately 22-25m with a spread of 20m. It has a trunk diameter at 1m above ground level of approximately 1.3m

Statement of Significance This native evergreen rainforest fig is significant as an individual specimen with local aesthetic, visual and historic values. This tree’s massive bulk creates a very important buffer between the property’s multi-storey apartment block and surrounding terraces and apartments. It is believed that this tree is a remnant of a former large garden, and was possibly part of the McQuade family estate, which stretched from Wylde Street to Victoria Street between the period 1858 to 1890 (refer to ‘Bomera’ & ‘Tarana’, 1 Wylde Street, Potts Point in this Register).

Figure 22.23.1 – The Moreton Bay Fig

22.24 "Tradewinds" 14-16 Onslow Avenue Address: colony" and had a number of areas, in gardenesque style. This 14-16 Onslow Avenue, tree is comparable in size to specimens in the Royal Botanic Elizabeth Bay Gardens and is much larger than the well-known specimen Ownership Type: planted in 1928 by Professor E.G. Waterhouse in the Main Private Quadrangle, University of Sydney. It is believed that this tree is Owner/ Controlling Authority: a remnant of the Macleay’s Elizabeth Bay House gardens prior Private to subdivision (1865 to 1882). The Jacaranda would have been Year of planting (of oldest item / if known) located between Elizabeth Bay House and the former stables. c. 1880? An established tree, believed to be a Jacaranda, is evident in the 1943 aerial photographs. Scheduled Significant Trees Jacarandas are possibly the most common flowering ornamental Qty Species Common Name tree in the City and suburbs of Sydney. In November each year, these trees burst into massed blossom, making a memorable 1 Jacaranda mimosifolia Jacaranda floral display. From the air, Sydney’s landscape is ablaze of mauve colour. They herald the coming of summer and have a Historical Notes special impact on Sydney’s landscape aesthetic and light quality. Governor Darling granted Colonial Secretary Alexander Macleay This species has been cultivated as an ornamental since at least 54 acres at Elizabeth Bay in 1826. From 1826-1926 the subject the middle of the nineteenth century. These trees tend to have land was part of the Macleay family's Elizabeth Bay estate garden, significance at the group level as components within broader in which Alexander built his mansion in the 1830s to the west. planting schemes or as avenues. It is unusual for a specimen to Built well before the house, the estate was widely considered at be of individual significance. the time (1820s onward) as "the finest house and garden in the Description This is a magnificent specimen, achieving outstanding proportions (height and canopy spread) for this species and is amongst the larger examples of this species in the City of Sydney LGA. This tree has a fluid, sculptural form with a sinuous branching pattern, typical of only older specimens. Although growing from within a small garden well below road level, this tree is a visually prominent element in this streetscape.

From is base, well below the adjoining street level it is approximately 20m in height with an asymmetrical canopy spread of 22m. The substantial trunk base is close to an existing stonewall and its diameter is approximately 0.9m at 1m above the ground. The trees trunk has been anchored to the stonewall at some point in recent years with a large steel ring. This ring is now constraining and impacting the trunk of the tree and could lead to premature decline.

Statement of Significance This mature Jacaranda (Jacaranda mimosifolia) has local significance as an individual tree with aesthetic, visual, historic and social values. It creates a memorable sense of place, reducing the size and scale of adjoining apartment blocks with its massive branches extending over the roadway. It is likely to be an intergral element of the original Macleay's Elizabeth Bay House estate. Figure 22.24.1 – The Jacaranda overhanging Onslow Avenue

22.25 "Elizabeth Bay Gardens" 15-19 Onslow Avenue Historical Notes Address: These trees may have been components of former larger 15-19 Onslow Avenue, gardens dating from the late nineteenth, to possibly early the Elizabeth Bay twentieth century period. Established trees are clearly evident Ownership Type: in this location in the 1943 aerial photos relating to smaller scale Private houses located on the site prior to the current high-rise unit Owner/ Controlling Authority: development. Private Year of planting (of oldest item / if known) Description c. 1900 These trees are located together in a small garden between high-rise apartment blocks and carparking areas. One of the Scheduled Significant Trees figs is a significantly larger specimen, but neither are considered significant as individuals. Unfortunately, due to the size and Qty Species Common Name layout of surrounding buildings, these trees have only visual Ficus rubiginosa f. significance within the context of this private property – they are 2 Port Jackson Fig rubiginosa not easily visible from adjoining streets.

They range in height from 12-15m with a 16-18m spread and a trunk diameter of 0.5-1.2 at 1m above ground level. The figs appear to be in good health and vigour with a combined and dense single canopy.

Statement of Significance These two Port Jackson Figs (Ficus rubiginosa f. rubiginosa) have local group significance in terms of their aesthetic and visual, historic, and biodiversity values. Together these trees make a significant contribution to the local landscape character reducing the impact and scale of adjoining buildings and creating a more aesthetic environmental quality to the property. Due to the high value placed on views and density of high-rise apartment development, there are very few larger specimen trees remaining in private gardens in this harbour-side location.

Figure 22.25.1 – The Port Jackson Figs

22.26 "Bayview Towers" 20-22 Onslow Avenue Historical Notes Address: Governor Darling granted Colonial Secretary Alexander Macleay 20-22 Onslow Avenue, 54 acres at Elizabeth Bay in 1826. From 1826-1926 the subject Elizabeth Bay land was part of the Macleay family's Elizabeth Bay estate garden, Ownership Type: in which Alexander built his mansion in the 1830s to the west. Private Built well before the house, the estate was widely considered Owner/ Controlling Authority: at the time (1820s onward) as "the finest house and garden in Private the colony" and had a number of areas, in gardenesque style. Year of planting (of oldest item / if known) It is believed that these trees are a remnant of the Macleay’s c. 1850 Elizabeth Bay House gardens prior to subdivision (1865 to 1882). Large established trees are evident in the 1943 aerial Scheduled Significant Trees photographs. Qty Species Common Name These highly ornamental rainforest pines, with their lush 3 Araucaria cunninghamii Hoop Pine evergreen foliage, dramatic symmetry and scale, were planted as feature or landmark trees within former private garden estates 1 Agathis robusta Queensland Kauri Pine and public parklands throughout the nineteenth century. They were often planted together with a range of other native rainforest and broadleaf evergreen species.

Description Although somewhat difficult to locate from nearby streets, these two native pines are nevertheless visually prominent elements in the Elizabeth Bay landscape. They are highly visible from the harbour and public foreshore spaces such as Beare Park. The Hoop Pine (Araucaria cunninghamii) is located in a lower lawn area adjacent to the western boundary with 18 Onslow Ave and is estimated to be close to 30m in height with a diameter at 1.0m above ground of 0.7m. The Queensland Kauri Pine (Agathis robusta) is located in close proximity but further north. It is estimated at 22m in height with a diameter at 1.0m above ground of 0.9m. These pines appears to be in good condition and health with a dense well-developed crown and good apical growth. There is some dead wood present in the lower branches.

Other related components, although not listed include, two mature Camphor Laurels (Cinnamomum camphora), located in the upper gardens, which may have been self-sown at a later date. Although continuing the evergreen, broadleaf theme this vigorous colonising species is considered an exotic weed and its significance is considered neutral to intrusive in this context. Further voluntary colonisation by this species should be controlled. The Illawarra FlameTree (Brachychiton acerifolius) in this group, although not a particularly large specimen (16 metres in height), may have been a component of the original composition.

There are also two very large River Peppermints (Eucalyptus elata), located in the upper garden, and these are likely to be associated with a later planting phase following development of the apartment block. These tall trees (up to 25 metres in height) would be in the 25-30 years age group and are not considered significant in this context.

Statement of Significance These two mature native Australian rainforest pines, the Hoop Pine (Araucaria cunninghamii) and Queensland Kauri Pine (Agathis robusta), have individual and group significance at the local level in terms of their aesthetic, botanic and biodiversity historic values. Both of these trees are outstanding specimens, having achieved dramatic scale and proportions in this north- facing, sheltered gully environment.

This rainforest planting palette, including the native figs and palms, continues an eclectic, romantic and picturesque style popularised by the Macleays, Charles Moore (Director, Royal Botanic Gardens 1848-1896) and the Guilfoyles. Furthermore, it is believed that this particular collection is a remnant of the once extensive gardens of Alexander and Eliza Macleay’s Elizabeth Bay House estate. This group of trees would have been located between Elizabeth Bay House and the former stables (refer to other listings for 14-16 Onslow Avenue ‘Tradewinds’, Billyard Avenue and Elizabeth Bay Road in this Register).

Figure 22.26.1 – The Hoop Pine and Queenland Kauri Pine, now located between the modern apartment buildings

22.27 "Aquarius" 50-58 Roslyn Gardens

Address: Historical Notes 50-58 Roslyn Gardens, It is believed that the Holm Oak (Quercus ilex), specimen dates Rushcutters Bay from the mid- to late nineteenth century and may be a garden Ownership Type: remnant of Macleay’s Elizabeth Bay House estate prior to Private subdivision (between 1865 and 1882). The mature Moreton Bay Owner/ Controlling Authority: Fig (Ficus macrophylla) to the eastern side is likely to have been Private planted after the apartment development. It is not visible in the Year of planting (of oldest item / if known) 1943 aerial photos of the site, but given its size is likely to have c. 1880? been planted soon after this date. The two Port Jackson Figs growing in the rock wall are also difficult to discern from the 1943 Scheduled Significant Trees photos.

Qty Species Common Name Description 3 Ficus macrophylla Moreton Bay Fig This property is dominated by a high-rise apartment block and bitumen carparking areas. The remnant significant trees 1 Quercus ilex Holm Oak are restricted to very small residual spaces near the property boundaries.

The mature Moreton Bay Fig (Ficus macrophylla), located near the south-eastern boundary is an outstanding specimen of considerable size and scale. This native evergreen rainforest fig is significant as an individual specimen with local aesthetic, visual and biodiversity values. This tree’s massive bulk creates an important buffer between the property’s multi-storey apartment block and the adjoining Rushcutters Bay Pre- school Kindergarten. In this context, the fig makes a significant contribution to the local landscape character as well as the broader foreshore open space of Rushcutters Bay/ Reg Bartley Oval (refer to listings in this Register). Due to the high value placed on views and density of high-rise apartment development, there are very few larger specimen trees remaining in private gardens or public spaces in this harbour-side location.

The Holm Oak (Quercus ilex), located in a small planter below Roslyn Gardens street level. This species was widely planted in association with native figs throughout the City of Sydney, particularly Moore Park/ Centennial Park areas during the latter part of the nineteenth century (refer to listing for Moore Park (Centennial Parklands) in this Register).

Two native, self-sown Port Jackson Figs (Ficus rubiginosa f. rubiginosa) further add to the visual and aesthetic quality of this streetscape. These figs have voluntarily colonised niches in the lower sandstone outcrops and sandstone retaining wall adjoining street level. These specimens are of medium size and scale (12- 15 metres in height) with massive aerial roots descending to the lower carpark level and overhang adjoining properties 51 Roslyn Figure 22.27.1 – The substantial Holm Oak growing from below Gardens ‘The Tor’ and 69 Roslyn Gardens ‘Trebartha’. Although the Roslyn Gardens roadway not individually significant in this context, these figs display a

distinctive landscape character and memorable sense of place significant contribution to the local landscape character as well throughout the City’s sandstone precincts, especially within as the broader foreshore open space of Rushcutters Bay/ Reg Elizabeth Bay, The Rocks, Pyrmont and Glebe. Bartley Oval (refer to listings in this Register).

Statement of Significance The Holm Oak (Quercus ilex), is a particularly large specimen for The mature Moreton Bay Fig (Ficus macrophylla), is an this species. The expansive canopy of this hardy, evergreen Oak outstanding specimen of considerable size and scale. This extends over the footpath and roadway, significantly enhancing native evergreen rainforest fig is significant as an individual the aesthetic and visual character of this streetscape and specimen with local aesthetic and historic values. This tree’s providing a valuable foil to adjoining high-rise development. This massive bulk creates an important buffer between the property’s tree is further significant as an individual specimen with local multi-storey apartment block and the adjoining Rushcutters historic values. Bay Pre-school Kindergarten. In this context, the fig makes a

Figure 22.27.2 – The Moreton Bay Fig viewed from Waratah Street to the east

23. Woolloomooloo

23.01 Cook & Phillip Parks

Address: Historical Notes Cathedral Street and William Street, In 1821, the park was identified on plans as a “garden” (State Sydney Heritage Inventory). At this stage, the park provided a contiguous Ownership Type: open space link between Hyde Park and the Domain but was Park later subdivided into two parks (ie. total of four separate parks). Owner/ Controlling Authority: In the 1830s College Street and William Street were constructed City of Sydney followed by Boomerang Street in 1851 and Haig Avenue in 1912, Year of planting (of oldest item / if known) effectively subdividing the parkland. Cook & Phillip Parks were c. 1860 dedicated as parkland in 1878 and a large portion leased to the City Bowling Club (1880). From 1876 to 1905, this Crown Scheduled Significant Trees reserve was managed by a statutory body of Park Trustees, accountable to the NSW Minister of Mines and Minister of Lands. Qty Species Common Name The Trustees were given the duties of maintaining, improving 15 Ficus macrophylla Moreton Bay Fig and managing the uses of the park. In 1876, the first regulations were drawn up. In 1905, control and management of Cook & 1 Ficus obliqua Small-leaved Fig Phillip Park was passed to Sydney Municipal Council. 5 Platanus x acerifolia London Plane Cook and Phillip Park has been completely redeveloped in 3 Phoenix canariensis Canary Island Date Palm the late 1990s in order to create an active public recreation and aquatic centre. Before the re-development began, Cook 5 Washingtonia robusta Washington Palm Park contained border plantings of mature trees, some of which were most likely planted between 1860 and the 1890s. 1 Dracaena draco Dragon's Blood Tree These included four mature Phoenix canariensis, a mature 5 Ficus rubiginosa Port Jackson Fig Ficus macrophylla and a row of Washingtona robusta. The redevelopment of Cook & Phillip Park attracted a considerable

Figure 23.1.1 – The central row planting of Moreton Bay Figs

level of community input and debate over the transformation of A group of very tall Washington Palms (Washingtonia robusta) this historic public open space, including the pool and forecourt are landmark specimens (20-22 metres clear trunk height) in area to St Mary’s Cathedral (Cathedral Square). Peak community this location, comparable to specimens in Farrer Place (refer to and conservation bodies such as the National Trust of Australia Listing in this Register). NSW were particularly concerned with the changes to the park’s historic fabric and curtilage. Statement of Significance Cook & Phillip Park is one of the City’s earliest public parks and The earlier fig plantations and later overlays of various palm forms an important part of the City’s public open space. The components and other species create an eclectic mix which are significant trees located in the park, together with other remnant typical of Sydney’s public parks. The fig planting, in particular, isolated individuals in Yurong Parkway, the adjoining courts of reflects the influence of Charles Moore (Director, Royal Botanic the Police Citizens Youth Club (PCYC) and Children’s Centre, Gardens 1848-1896) and others. Review of the 1943 aerial are very important components of the City’s park heritage (refer photos of the park reveal that the oldest planting is probably the to Hyde Park, Victoria Park, Wentworth Park and Prince Alfred central row of Moreton Bay Figs. These were similar in size to Park listings in this Register). that of today indicating a planting probably around 1860' or 70's. Substantial but smaller trees around the perimeter were also Together, the collection of trees are of individual and group noted at this time probably indicating a planting in the late 1800's significance at the City/ LGA level in terms of their visual, historic, or early 1900's. social and botanic values.

Description These magnificent figs (standing 16-22 metres in height and 20- 30 metres canopy spread) possibly date from planting during the mid-nineteenth century. The trees are recovering from previous stress from modification around their roots, physical damage, heavy pruning and increased pavement areas within their drip- lines.

London Planes (Platanus x acerifolia) are an important component of this collection. They occur as individuals in the Children’s Centre playground and adjacent courts. A further row planting of London Planes occurs in the park. All of these trees are outstanding individual specimens (20-22 metres in height and 25 metres canopy spread) and possibly date from the early twentieth century.

The boundary row plantations include mixed Port Jackson Figs (Ficus rubiginosa f. glabrescens), Moreton Bay Figs (Ficus macrophylla) and a large specimen the less common species, the Small-leaved Fig (Ficus obliqua) adjacent to Cathedral Street. The Small-leaved Fig, is a native of the east coast rainforests. This species is relatively rare in the City of Sydney LGA (refer to Reg Bartley Oval, Rushcutters Bay and Kirsova Playground, Glebe in this Register). A specimen Dragon’s Blood Tree (Dracaena draco) has been recently transplanted to the sculpture garden. Mature examples of this species are somewhat rare in the City of Sydney LGA. This specimen and the tall group of Canary Island Date Palms (Phoenix canariensis) would likely date from the late nineteenth century or early twentieth century.

Figure 23.1.2 – The Dragon's Blood Tree