A long time Tuross resident has been pushing to have 82 Norfolk Pines heritage listed since 2013. 

Maureen Baker and the Tuross Lakes Preservation Group, of which she is secretary, wrote to council three years ago in an effort to have the Tarandore Point tree plantation recognised as an important part of the town’s history. 

Mrs Baker said she was glad to see the wish finally move forward. 

“This is a great step. We don’t have too much further to go,” she said after the council meeting on July 26. 

At the meeting, councillors unanimously supported the move. The recommendation will now be determined by the NSW Minister for Environment and Planning before feedback from the community is sought.

“It is highly valued by the community. There are several events under the canopy every year,” Mrs Baker said. 

“There is a unique ambiance the plantation canopy creates.

“Tuross is recognised for its pine trees. We feel it is very important to have them protected.”

Mrs Baker said the community had a great affection for Hector McWilliam and what he foresaw for the area. 

“He planted the plantation and other pines throughout Tuross. The pines along the street may be lost in time for various reasons but the pines in the plantation are more likely to be preserved. 

“Hector McWilliam was before his time and dedicated the entire ocean front to a reserve.

“These could be 80 to 90 years old. You don’t often see a plantation of pines, it is unusual.”