An AIDS Memorial Tree planted at Chatfield Reserve on the banks of Lake Daylesford by community members in the 1990s has been recognised by Hepburn Shire Council with a plaque marking its significance to the LGBTIQA+ community.
Mayor, Don Henderson said research had confirmed some of the tree’s history and its importance as a symbol in community-led memorial events during the AIDS pandemic of the 1990s.
“The tree represents a memorial to a significant period in local and Australian history and has strong local connections because of the high population of LGBTIQA+ people in the Daylesford area and around our Shire,” said Mayor Henderson.
“We know there have been candlelight vigils at the tree on at least three World AIDS Days to honour those who died of AIDS-related illnesses and to acknowledge the volunteers who cared for people living with HIV/AIDS.
“The memorial tree was planted in the 1990s by community members and by installing the plaque, we are able to highlight the historical significance of the tree,” he said.
The tree had been temporarily removed from its location during landscape works on Chatfield Reserve in 2023 to ensure its protection and was subsequently replanted.
A bronze plaque has been affixed to a rock at the base of the tree.
Council’s LGBTIQA+ Advisory Committee has identified three existing symbols of Pride in Hepburn Shire – the Big Rainbow, the AIDS Memorial Tree at Chatfield Reserve (Lake Daylesford) and the Grove of Gratitude at Wombat Flat (Lake Daylesford).
