Macedon Avenue of Honour
The stunning avenue of 154 Oak trees dedicated to local citizens of the area that fought in the First World War
By National Trust of Australia (Victoria)
This site is part of the traditional land of the Wurundjeri people.
Macedon Avenue of Honour Pin Oak leaves changing colour by Macedon Ranges Shire CouncilNational Trust of Australia (Victoria)
In Australia, those who served in war have often been commemorated by rows of trees, known as Avenues of Honour. The practice was popularised during and after World War I, particularly in the state of Victoria, where 472 Avenues were planted.
These living memorials are a poignant reminder of the devastating impact of war on families and communities, and a symbol of how grief can manifest within a community to ensure that those who lost their lives in the line of service are remembered.
Macedon Avenue of Honour (2022/2022) by National Trust of Australia (Victoria)National Trust of Australia (Victoria)
On 21 August 1914, Lieutenant Arthur Grumont was the first to enlist for the army from the district of Macedon in Victoria. He would go on to serve in both World Wars.
Woodend Avenue of Honour sign by Macedon Ranges Shire CouncilNational Trust of Australia (Victoria)
To commemorate his service in World War I, and the sacrifice of 153 other community members from Macedon and Upper Macedon, the Avenue of Honour was officially opened on 10 August 1918.
Macedon Avenue of Honour by Macedon Ranges Shire CouncilNational Trust of Australia (Victoria)
The Avenue is peculiar in that it is made up of Oak trees, whereas in other parts of Victoria Elms are more common. The avenue erupts into a vibrant shock of gold and red in Autumn and is one of the world's most scenic roads.
Oak trees are symbolically connected with virtue and majesty and have strong associations with the virtues of kindness and nurturing, as well as the ability to fight when needed.
Macedon Avenue of Honour (2022/2022) by National Trust of Austalia (Victoria)National Trust of Australia (Victoria)
Lieutenant Arthur Grumont’s Oak tree, number 58, was planted by the then Premier of Victoria, Harry Lawson at a ceremony attended by some 700 people. Voluntary workers had spent three months preparing the site in Mile Road, between the railway station and Mt Macedon Road.
Macedon Avenue of Honour (2022/2022) by National Trust of Austalia (Victoria)National Trust of Australia (Victoria)
The avenue of 154 trees is approximately one kilometre in length and predominantly consists of Pin Oaks (Quercus palustris), with one English oak (Quercus robur) at both ends of each row.
Macedon Avenue of Honour, Commemorative plaque at Western end of Honour Avenue (2022) by National Trust of Australia (Victoria)National Trust of Australia (Victoria)
Today, Honour Avenue has seen trees replaced and memorial cairns with plaques placed at both ends.
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Explore the Macedon Avenue of Honour
Image Credits: Hepburn Shire Council
The National Trust Register of Significant Trees recognises individual trees, avenues and important stands as valuable community assets that must be preserved. Since 1982, more than 1,200 significant trees have been registered across Victoria. Read more at https://trusttrees.org.au/
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