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Waddy Tree – Australia’s Loneliest Tree

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Weigh Bridge

Protecting and conserving Australia’s loneliest tree.

Funded by
Australian Government logo
Occurring in isolated populations on the fringe of the Simpson Desert in inland Australia, the Waddy tree (Acacia peuce), is one of the country’s rarest trees. Also known as Waddy-Wood or Waddi tree, this ancient tree with an estimated lifespan of up to 500 years, is slow growing and relies on rare and exceptionally high rainfall events to germinate and establish seedlings. The Waddy tree is now restricted to isolated populations in Queensland.

Often being the only tree species in their harsh and arid environment, the Waddy tree provides protection to other plant species and habitat for the numerous animal species in the region 

The timber of the Waddy tree is extremely hard and dense, with a dark red heartwood that was used for weapons and tools by our first nations people and as durable, termite-resistant fence posts and building material by early pastoralists. 

With the small populations of Waddy trees under pressure from wildfires, weeds, pests and even tourist traffic there is a need for further understanding of this species and to ensure the populations are protected from key threatening processes. 

DCQ will be seeking to ensure these populations remain viable, through management of pests, primarily rabbits, weeds, and livestock grazing . In addition to managing threats to the Waddy tree, expanding the research and knowledge base of this species through collaborations with government, universities, first nations people, councils and particularly landholders will be critical in ensuring the future of this species.

Research Opportunity (Waddy Tree) - 2025

Desert Channels Queensland wishes to support a postgraduate student in conducting research to aid in conservation and management efforts and fill the essential knowledge gap required to conserve Waddy Tree species effectively.

Waddy Tree (Acacia peuce) inhabits the extensive barren, shallow sand soils of Central Australia. Listed as vulnerable under the EPBC Act 1999 and endangered in Queensland (NC Act 1992) and Northern Territory (TPWC Act 1976). This iconic tree is a testament to the adaptive and resilient flora of arid landscapes. The Waddy Trees’ isolated existence marks it as a climatic and biogeographic relict within the arid region. Despite its resilience, the Waddy Tree faces several threats. Known threats include wildfires, landscape management, timber cutting, weed infestations, and herbivory.

Benefits:

  • Up to $20,000 in financial support to suitable applicant(s),
  • Supporting accommodation for students while visiting Longreach.
  • Access to professional support with DCQ staff, DCQ vehicles and office space while on deployment.
  • You will have the opportunity to adapt the potential research proposal to align with your interests, passions and the broader scope of the study.

Please see this document for more information. To express interest, reach out to info@dcq.org.au.