Archicentre, the building advisory service of the Royal Australian Institute of Architects and Frankston City Council will combine to implement a unique rescue plan for a 100 year old historic Moreton Bay tree which was threatened by development.

As part of the Year of the Built Environment two specially designed houses will be built on the land allotment featuring the tree to demonstrate best practice in preserving significant trees.

Robert Caulfield on the site with the Moreton Bay Fig

Plans for the $800,000 project were unveiled last night (Tuesday 10 February) at Frankston City Council to residents involved in taking action to save the tree.

Residents and Councillors at Frankson City Council view the plans with Colin Mitchell, Archicentre Architect.

In a joint statement, Frankston Mayor Councillor Cathy Wilson and Managing Director of Archicentre Robert Caulfield said, "The Tree House Project" the saving of 'Moreton Bay' has already commenced and provides a unique opportunity to showcase careful environmental design and best heritage practice."

Cr Wilson said, "Faced with the tree being destroyed Frankston City Council purchased the land to ensure its' future. The proposed project creates a win-win situation with the tree being preserved at no initial or long term maintenance cost to the community."

"The community action which saved the tree would now be complemented with an ongoing communication awareness program as the project moved forward with regular information and meetings," Cr Wilson added.

Mr Caulfield said that two homes will be designed by local Architect Colin Mitchell and built by leading home builder Devine Homes. Both homes will be built to reflect the best practice in building near significant trees and each home will have a distinct theme.

One home will have an environmental theme and the other will be built as a KIDSAFE home to promote child accident prevention in the home.

Once completed the homes will be auctioned with the profits being allocated to Kidsafe for Child Accident Prevention programs and the Environment Fund of Frankston City Council.

"Archicentre has commenced the planning process for the project and expects to have the project completed by early December," Mr. Caulfield said.

"Suggestions from the community group we have met on the project include creative use of the timber in the significant limbs which were knocked from the tree for sculpture or plaques."

A viewing platform will be part of the site so the community can see the project taking place.

Mr Caulfield said that Archicentre would use an electronic Archicentre Bulletin to update information to residents and promote the project nationally to the community, all Councils and Members of Parliament on a regular basis.

Frankston residents wanting to get the latest news on the Tree House Project - the Saving of Moreton Bay can register at the Archicentre website www.archicentre.com.au

Media Enquiries:
Ron Smith Archicentre (03) 9818 5700
Mobile: 0417 329 201