Yarra Ranges Council is seeking expressions of interest from local community groups, Men’s Sheds and artists to take possession of some unique blackwood logs after the trees fell during the June storm.
Approximately 25,000 trees fell across the municipality during the June storm and Council has been working to repurpose many of the fallen trees.
Some of these trees include a small group of blackwood trees, which have been identified as a highly sought-after material.
Blackwood logs are sought-after for their impressive appearance, which is described as a rich, golden-brown colour that is often complimented by reddish streaks or narrow bands of black.
Council intends to provide these fallen blackwood logs to community groups, Men’s Sheds and artists through an expression of interest form.
Yarra Ranges Council Mayor Jim Child said that while the loss of trees from the storm was considerable, Council is doing everything to reuse and rehome as much fallen material as possible.
“The destruction from the June storm caused a small number of blackwood trees to fall on Council land,” Cr Child said.
“Though blackwood has multiple uses, it is most prized for its beautiful, naturally lustrous timber, which is commonly used in cabinets and other furniture and veneers, as well as flooring, boats, musical instruments and decorative pieces.”
“Like many of our residents, we were also saddened to see the huge loss of trees after the storm, so finding ways to reuse and recycle this timber is extremely important to us and hopefully community groups can utilise and highlight this special timber.”
There are approximately 50-70 logs available, and following the expression of interest process, Council will make an effort to distribute these fairly.
If demand for the logs is high Council may not be able to supply to all applicants and allocation will be based on a first come first serve basis.
Applications will close on Sunday 27 February.
Visit the council’s website for more information.
