Uprooted trees and the art of rescue

The image shows a group of Norfolk Pine trees overlooking a beach

Trees are fast-disappearing from Gold Coast streets and parks, leaving gaps in arbours of natives and avenues of Norfolks. In the wake of Tropical Cyclone Alfred clean-up crews have been efficiently cutting down, chopping up and macerating trees that blew down in the storms. It’s obvious that most of these can’t be saved.  A felled … Continue reading Uprooted trees and the art of rescue

Climate resilience, power lines and trees

While trees can affect power lines, they are not the only factor contributing to power outages. Trees provide numerous environmental benefits in resilient subtropical cities. Fragile power infrastructure needs urgent re-thinking to avoid overheated unlivable cities amid climate change.

How to keep Brisbane liveable and friendly

On the eve of a city wide forum to create a Charter of Principles that will guide strategic decisions and make sure Brisbane thrives as a friendly and liveable place for future generations, I propose two scenarios to focus our minds.

Hot in the suburbs – Want more walkable streets? More trees please.

Australia's summer heat poses challenges for walkability in Brisbane, where aspirations for a pedestrian-friendly city clash with ongoing suburban design shortcomings. While some public spaces reflect subtropical planning, many infill developments lack shade and greenery. Effective urban design must prioritize pedestrian comfort to enhance community interactions and ensure sustainable living spaces.