Blue Mountains News

Mayor, Cr Mark Greenhill OAM, who presided over the ceremony said: “I would like to recognise the history of the Corridor of Oaks and the tradition of the Prime Ministerial tree planting.

“The Corridor of Oaks is a heritage conservation area of state and local cultural significance, but also of great importance to the nation. The oak trees have been planted by each Prime Minister, or their closest living relative, forming a living memorial to Sir Henry Parkes, Federation and the Federal Prime Ministers.”

Mayor Greenhill spoke about Mr Abbott’s commitment to service in Australia that extended beyond the highest offices of politics to grass-roots community activities, like volunteering for Surf Life Saving and the Rural Fire Service.

He also congratulated Mr Abbott for his actions after the downing of Malaysia Airlines flight 17, when Mr Abbott met with President Vladimir Putin and demanded justice for the 38 Australians who died.

“It’s no secret Mr Abbott and I are from alternate sides of the political divide, but I was proud of my government, proud to be an Australian, when I saw the leadership Mr Abbott displayed in those distressing circumstances,” Cr Greenhill said.

“Because that it what a leader does in times of trouble. Prime Ministers can unite us all beyond politics or personal differences. Prime Ministers have the power to unite us all as Australians.”

Mr Abbott, before planting the commemorative oak tree, said he remembered times in the past when he had visited the Blue Mountains in official and unofficial capacities, including after the 2013 bushfires.

“I have many memories of the Blue Mountains… it’s an iconic part of a wonderful country and it’s good to be back here again on this particular occasion.”

He said he was proud to honour the memory and legacy of Sir Henry Parkes, the Father of Federation.

“In honouring him, we do honour our country,” he said. “I certainly think there are many great forms of public service…and there is no doubt that public service in the parliament is unique, and it’s wonderful that it is celebrated in this Avenue of Oak.”

Official guests at the ceremony included Federal Member for Macquarie Susan Templeman, Freeman of the City and former Mayor Jim Angel, Freeman of the City and former Deputy Mayor Chris Van Der Kley, and BMCC CEO Dr Rosemary Dillon.

Dr Peter Brennan, descendant of Joseph Jackson, who donated the land to create Jackson Park, and the Corridor of Oaks, was in attendance.  As werestudents from Faulconbridge Public School, Springwood High School and members of the Blue Mountains Heritage Advisory Committee.

Federal Member for Macquarie Susan Templeman said: "The planting of a tree by former Prime Ministers at the Corridor of Oaks has been an important local and national tradition since 1934. Each tree recognises their service to our country and their legacy, regardless of their political views and I'm grateful to see this tradition continue with former Prime Minister Abbott planting his tree today."

Mr Abbott was presented with civic gifts, which were works by Blue Mountains artists that represented the City’s unique cultural and ecological setting as a World Heritage-listed area.