Nine significant trees across Victoria have been shortlisted for the 2026 Victorian Tree of the Year competition, run by the National Trust of Victoria.
The annual competition began in 2016 to raise awareness of significant trees and encourage their protection. Trees must be listed on the National Trust’s significant tree register, which recognises trees for their cultural, scientific or historic value.
More than 40 trees were nominated this year before a panel of 12 experts and arboriculturists selected nine finalists.
The finalists include a myrtle beech in Apollo Bay, a flooded gum in Carlton North, Californian redwoods in Warburton and a ginkgo planted in Geelong Botanic Gardens in 1859.
Other finalists are an Indian bean tree in Castlemaine, a smooth-barked apple myrtle in Prahran, a Canary Island pine in Ballarat Central, a golden wych elm in South Yarra and a bunya pine in Maldon.
The National Trust said the finalists reflect different aspects of Victoria’s tree heritage, from historic plantings and unusual species to trees with strong local connections.
National Trust executive manager of gardens Justin Buckley said community support can be an important part of the competition and that significant trees face increasing pressure from urban densification and new housing.
Voting closes at midnight on 22 October, with the 2026 winner due to be announced on 27 October.
