FRANKLIN, TASMANIA – A community-led effort is underway to halt the planned removal of a historic 125-year-old Giant Sequoia at Franklin Primary School. The decision to fell the tree has sparked significant backlash from local residents and arboriculture experts who argue that the landmark specimen can be preserved.
Community Backlash and Expert Intervention
The controversy reached a peak this week as local arborists called for an immediate stay of execution for the tree. Jerry Romanski, a prominent arborist, has publicly challenged the school’s assessment, stating that there are viable options to manage the tree’s safety without resorting to its complete removal. Romanski expressed scepticism regarding the initial expert advice provided to the Department for Education, questioning the necessity of the “chopping block” approach.
Local residents have expressed “fury” over the plans, citing the tree’s deep historical roots in the Huon Valley community. The Sequoia was reportedly planted in 1901, making it a living link to the school’s early 20th-century history.
Tree Profile and History
The Giant Sequoia (Sequoiadendron giganteum) is not native to Australia but has been a fixture of the Franklin landscape for over a century. Based on current reports and historical records, the following details outline the tree’s significance:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Species | Giant Sequoia (Redwood) |
| Location | Franklin Primary School, Tasmania |
| Estimated Age | 125 Years |
| Year Planted | 1901 |
| Current Status | Slated for removal (Pending community appeal) |
Safety Concerns vs. Preservation
The Department for Education has indicated that the decision to remove the tree stems from safety concerns, though specific details regarding the tree’s health or structural integrity have been met with scrutiny. Opponents of the removal suggest that modern arboricultural techniques, such as selective pruning or the installation of safety barriers, could mitigate risks while keeping the historic redwood intact.
As of 25 February 2026, the community continues to lobby for a secondary independent assessment to explore all possible alternatives to felling the tree.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is the Franklin Primary School Sequoia being removed?
The school and the Department for Education have cited safety concerns as the primary reason for the removal, though local arborists argue that these risks can be managed through alternative maintenance strategies.
How old is the tree?
The tree is approximately 125 years old, having been planted in 1901.
Can the tree be saved?
Arborist Jerry Romanski and other local experts believe there are options to make the tree safe for the school environment without cutting it down. They are currently calling for an immediate halt to the removal process to allow for further consultation.
What is the significance of the Giant Sequoia in Franklin?
Beyond its age, the tree is considered a local landmark and a significant part of the school’s heritage, representing over a century of growth alongside the Franklin community.