Victoria's Tree of the Year 2026: Finalists and How to Vote 2026

Victoria's Tree of the Year 2026 competition has unveiled nine remarkable finalists, from a shady eucalyptus to a golden wych elm and a rare gingko. Run by the National Trust of Victoria, the award celebrates the state's most significant trees and the communities that cherish them.

About Victoria's Tree of the Year Competition

Launched in 2016, the competition aims to raise awareness about the importance of trees and advocate for their protection. To be eligible, trees must be listed on the National Trust's significant tree register, which recognises up to 10,000 trees for their cultural, scientific, and historic value. This year, over 40 nominations were whittled down to nine finalists by a panel of 12 experts and arboriculturists.

Meet the 2026 Finalists

The finalists represent a diverse array of species and stories. Among them is a decades-old shady eucalyptus, an elm beloved by thousands of commuters, and a type of gingko once thought to be extinct in the wild. Each tree has a unique tale, often tied to community memories and local heritage.

Notable Finalists

• Myrtle beech in Apollo Bay: Possibly formed by two or three trees growing together, creating a complex structure that visitors can wander through—a metaphor for the web of life.
• Golden wych elm: A favourite among commuters, this tree provides shade and beauty in an urban setting.
• Gingko: Once thought extinct in the wild, this living fossil is a testament to resilience.

Why These Trees Matter

According to Justin Buckley, executive manager of gardens at the National Trust, the nominated trees have been part of communities for generations. "It's not always just the biggest or most impressive tree that wins; it's often one that has a lot of community support behind it," he said. The competition not only celebrates trees but also highlights their ecological and cultural significance.

Comparison of Finalist Trees

How to Vote for Victoria's Tree of the Year

Voting is open to the public and typically takes place online through the National Trust of Victoria's website. By casting your vote, you help shine a spotlight on these magnificent trees and support their ongoing protection. Stay tuned for the announcement of the winner, who will join the ranks of previous champions.

Key Takeaways

• The competition raises awareness about significant trees in Victoria.
• Finalists are selected from the National Trust's significant tree register.
• Community support plays a crucial role in determining the winner.
• Voting is open to the public and helps protect these natural treasures.

FAQ

What is Victoria's Tree of the Year?

Victoria's Tree of the Year is an annual competition run by the National Trust of Victoria to celebrate and protect significant trees across the state.

How are the finalists chosen?

A panel of experts and arboriculturists selects finalists from nominations of trees listed on the National Trust's significant tree register.

ADVERTISEMENT

Can the public vote for the winner?

Yes, voting is open to the public, usually via the National Trust of Victoria's website. Community support is a key factor in determining the winner.

Best Products We’ve Tested and Rated

Our testing team has hands-on reviews of pickleball equipment beginners paddles gear, breakfast champions morning meals fuel day, wimbledon awards player epic matches drama, 35mm rangefinder, and mat garage. Every option below was compared across price, build quality, and real-world performance, with honest pros and cons. We update these guides regularly as new models arrive, so the recommendations stay current.

Our testing team has hands-on reviews of gloves arthritic hands, gifts men, gloves on amazon, wedges beginners high handicappers, and golf pants. Every option below was compared across price, build quality, and real-world performance, with honest pros and cons. We update these guides regularly as new models arrive, so the recommendations stay current.