What is a Water Tree ?

Over many Noongar generations specific Marri Trees were carefully sculpted through pruning and careful shaping to encourage a basin-shaped trough in the centre trunk of a large tree. These basins could collect and store fresh clean water for people and animals. The knowledge and skills for this extraordinary practice were transferred through generations of custodians and the trees were carefully selected and protected. Water Tree Community School receives and honours the symbolism of this practice by providing an educational reservoir where people can come to share learning, restoration and connection with nature in a co-created positive, safe space.

References:

Brockman-Webb Vivian private communication with permission to share 2024

https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-09-07/how-traditional-owners-used-marri-trees-to-gather-water-wa/102799998