We want feedback on the TCT’s logo! We are reviewing the TCT’s public image with the aim of increasing awareness of our existence and our purpose
But before you tell us your views, please read the following account of the story behind the logo. Comment can be made via email to tct6@bigpond.com or by phone 03 6234 3552 work hours or 0406 380 545 (after hours).
The history of the logo
The logo was produced in 2009 by Hobart graphic artist Kelly Eijenberg by tracing in precise detail the outline of a Miena cider gum tree (Eucalyptus gunnii subsp. divaricata) from a photograph. The tree was photographed by TCT Director Peter McGlone at Shannon Lagoon in Tasmania’s central highlands. TCT Councillor and artist Robyn McNicol recommended the use of this tree as a logo.
Why we chose the logo
The TCT wanted a logo that was not artificial or geometric and stood out as different. It is a unique, complex and natural shape taken from an endemic endangered Tasmanian tree. We wanted to challenge people’s assumptions about conservation priorities and what the TCT represents.
The endangered Miena cider gum
Miena cider gum is an endangered subspecies that has a compelling but poorly known story. Found in the highlands, the Miena cider gum is a short and spreading woodland tree and not the typical tall forest species so synonymous with Tasmania.
It is perhaps the only occurrence in Australia of a species of plant that has been listed as threatened because of human-induced climate change, especially due to drought in the southern central highlands.
The Shannon Lagoon population of the Miena cider gum is perhaps the most frost resistance population of this subspecies and therefore is probably the most frost resistant of all eucalypts – meaning its genes are globally valuable. Sadly, it cannot extreme frost or drought. Its sugary sap was tapped and eaten by early settlers and the Tasmanian Aborigines but this also makes it palatable to brush-tailed possums, who are another threat, particularly during drought.
The subspecies is called Divaricata, a Latin word referring to its habit of having myriad branches and forks. Likewise, the TCT works on a myriad of issues.
A dead tree
Some people are surprised by the use of a dead tree but they are a natural phenomena that is important wildlife habitat. Dead trees are under-valued and people take dead trees of various species for firewood often thinking they are cleaning up waste.
Dead trees become a conservation problem when entire populations or forests die and have little chance of natural regenerating. At the time the photograph was taken, all mature Miena cider gum trees in this stand appeared dead.
Conservation of the Miena cider gum
The TCT Director Peter McGlone worked on the conservation of the Miena cider gum when he was employed by WWF Australia, including by banding mature trees and installing guards to protect hundreds of seedlings from browsing animals.
Peter McGlone