The week beginning 12 October, I was down on the farm helping my cousin prepare to celebrate 122 years since our Grandfather selected this amazing piece of countryside, and his own 70th birthday. We were expecting 40 family and friends to gather under the 98-year-old fig tree which Grandad planted on Robert's father's birthday.
On the occasion of Robert's Father's 70th birthday, he and his siblings each planted a deciduous tree. They are now 35 years old and make a stunning display in autumn. The planting of the trees was preceded by a long lunch under the camphor laurel trees at the front of the house.
My Dad, Jack.
The trees in April 2022 - Pin Oak, Plane Tree, Liquid Amber and English Oak.
Grandad had eleven grandchildren. In keeping with his father's 70th birthday, Robert bought eleven trees to be planted when we all gathered. Sadly, six of my cousins have passed away. Their children were asked to plant their parents' tree.
One of our jobs in the week prior was to select the site for planting the trees. There were six sites in contention. Our final choice was based on the fact that no cattle could access the trees in the near future. Very wise, but sentimentally, we would plant the trees across the road and in line with the trees in the photo above.
The field had to be slashed. A huge old fence post was embedded in the long grass. Helen to the rescue with the brush cutter, while Robert slashed the remainder of the field.
Field slashed, we stepped out the distance needed between the trees and inserted markers. The following day, I used the brush cutter to clear a further metre around them. We were to dig the holes prior to the day, but heavy rain prevented it. Fortunately, Robert has a wonderful neighbour, Bo, who did this for us on the morning of the gathering.
It was 3pm before all trekked down to the field. My fears that not everyone would join us were unfounded. It was the most special hour and atmosphere, as young and old helped with the planting. Once done, there was an unsheduled exploration of the banks of Cob a Corn Creek. It was as if time had stood still and here we were as young cousins, delighting in the freedom and beauty of country life.
The trek down.
Robert and Adrian
Bo, Robert and my son Matthew.
Job done - the official planters
It was well after 4pm when we returned to the house. Many had big kilometres to drive. Farewells were said as each family departed, taking with them all the wonderful memories made during this special day at Locheil.
Thank you Grandfather. Thank you Robert for always making us so welcome.
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