Ipswich City Council protects Marburg Bottle tree

Published on 10 October 2025

A Bottle tree in Marburg thought to be more than a century old will now permanently be protected, thanks to a vegetation protection order by Ipswich City Council.

Environment and Sustainability Committee Chairperson and Division 4 Councillor Jim Madden said the Bottle tree at Lawrence Street is a vital part of the suburb’s local environment and preserving it for the future is essential.

“The tree, which is on private property, is aesthetically pleasing and adds to the beauty of the streetscape while providing shelter and seeds to local wildlife,” Cr Madden said. 

“Inspections found it to be of sound condition and exceptional type.

“Council has several processes through which it can protect vegetation and following an application by the landowner to protect the tree, Local Law No. 49 (Protection of Important Vegetation) was thought to be the most appropriate measure.

“Earlier this year, council made an interim Vegetation Protection Order and undertook a public submission period before making the order permanent.”

Division 4 Councillor David Martin said the Bottle tree, with the scientific name Brachychiton rupestris, had several traditional uses by First Nations peoples, such as a food resource (seeds and roots) and tools (fibre for twine/rope).

“This is a beautiful tree which provides benefits to wildlife and locals alike – and has for more than one hundred years and we want to ensure future generations can enjoy and benefit from it too,” Cr Martin said. 

“This is the fourth tree in Ipswich under a Vegetation Protection Order (VPO), with the last VPO being made in 2003 to protect a Queensland Blue Gum in Goodna.

“Council is always looking for ways to preserve the natural and environmental beauty of our city wherever possible, particularly amidst the rapid growth our divisions and the city are experiencing.”