The Message Tree

Works to tell the story of The Message Tree are planned to commence in June 2024 on the corner of Thompson Street and Nelson Place, Williamstown.

The site includes seating, an interpretative marker that will include information panels, and the new tree.  

Background

During 2019, members of the community joined together to research and share the story of The Message Tree, a she-oak that provided a meeting place that stood on the corner of Nelson Place and Thompson Street, Williamstown and was later removed in 1857.

Around this tree, early colonists saw the Yalukit-Willam, led by N’Arweet Boollutt (also called King Benbow), as they conducted ceremonies and councils here. The site of “The Message Tree” marks a special place for Boon wurrung/Bunurong people.

The project was funded through our Community Grants program as a shared history research project. It was convened by GetUp Out West (now The New Message Tree Alliance), with representatives from local organisations including Victoria Police, Hobsons Bay City Council, The Hobsons Bay Yacht Club, The Royal Yacht Club of Victoria, Williamstown Historical Society, Conversations for the Curious, St Mary’s Catholic Primary School, Williamstown Community and Education Centre and independent historians such as Brian Haynes.

The research on The Message Tree was undertaken by cultural historian Greg Thorpe in consultation with Caroline Martin, Boon Wurrung Custodian and Director of Yalikut Marnang.

The project is supported by the Bunurong Land Council Aboriginal Corporation, and by the Boon Wurrung Foundation through a partnership with Getup Out West.

Find out more (Message Tree Project Report)(PDF, 3MB)

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