A beloved pair of 50-year-old Melaleuca trees in Ipswich’s Darcy Doyle Place are at the centre of a growing grassroots movement, as members of the Ipswich Climate Action Group (ICAG) turn to art to raise awareness and inspire community action.
During a recent episode of “Getting Your Arts into Gear” on West Bremer Radio, members of ICAG joined local artists at the Booval Fair Arts Connect Community Gallery to share how they’re using creativity to speak up for the environment.
“These trees aren’t just old trees – they’re vital habitat for local birdlife and a calming green space in the middle of our city,” said ICAG member Robin. “We’re seeing this happen everywhere – trees are being removed, and the habitat loss is accelerating.”
In June, ICAG hosted an arts day under the Melaleucas, drawing in painters, weavers, poets and musicians to celebrate and protect the trees. The day included creative workshops, collaborative discussions – and even inspired a live performance of an original song written on the spot by local singer-songwriter Sophie, who will perform again at Banshees Bar and Artspace on July 20.
The group’s environmental awareness work is part of a broader campaign to protest the potential removal of the Melaleucas, amid ongoing development plans for the area. They are calling on Ipswich residents to speak up and urge decision-makers to preserve the trees – not just for aesthetics, but for biodiversity and future generations.
“If we can’t save Mel and Luca,” said ICAG president Val (in absentia), “what hope have we got?”
ICAG is also behind the return of the Trash’n’Show Parade this November – a wearable art event using recycled and repurposed materials to creatively highlight waste and sustainability.
“Art gives us a powerful platform,” said Glen Smith, host and community arts advocate. “It speaks when words can’t, and brings people together to imagine solutions.”
To find out more or get involved in future ICAG events, follow Ipswich Climate Action Group on Facebook or email ipswichclimateaction@gmail.com.
KEY DATES:
- Sophie Live Performance: July 20, 4pm at Banshees Bar & Artspace
- Trash’n’Show Parade: November 2025 (details TBC)
- Facebook: Search Ipswich Climate Action Group
🎨 This story is part of the ‘Getting Your Arts Into Gear’ community arts series on West Bremer Radio.
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