The group declared action was needed to give the site consistency and decrease the plant waste and berries dropped in the area to keep the trees and plants at Riverside Park in Macksville attractive to both residents and visitors.

Joan’s Garden Army spokeswoman Marie Lenthall said a request was made to council about 15-months ago and was accepted as a project, subject to the availability of resources.

A consultant was hired to draw-up plans of the area and design an attractive plan for the park. Tuckeroo trees were chosen as the primary shade source, which was passed by council.

With research and guidance from local supporters, the group discovered the fruit dropped from Tuckeroos would be just as bad, if not worse, than the six fig and plum trees already planted along the river.

Local horticulturalist and Country Garden’s business owner Libby Ussher said planting Poincianas would be a better choice because of their umbrella canopy, minimal amount of litter, and attractive reflection with the same plants on the opposite side of the bridge.

This argument was expressed to councillors at an ordinary council meeting on August 19, where questions were raised about invasive roots, seeds and the dropping of leaves.

Ms Ussher said the roots were no more

invasive than Tuckeroos, the Poinciana’s had a long-seed pod and are deciduous, meaning the tree dropped its leaves in winter, allowing the sun to pass through. Council agreed with the change and passed a motion to use the Poinciana tree in the park, to be placed after consultation.

“This is something Macksville has needed for a very long time and it will be beautiful,” Mrs Lenthall said. “It is a feature of the town.”