It has stood in place since the 1870s, but the significance of the Stone Pine that towers over the Apex Park in Church Street has now been immortalised.

A research project, headed by Hay Landcare member Sally Ware, has unearthed the history and probable provenance of the tree.

“When we were setting up the Landcare nursery, just beside this tree, I noticed it because of its size,” Ms Ware said.

She called on local experts; Don Deluca helped identify the species Pinus pinea, and historian Robyn Howard and dedicated Hay Goal Museum curator John Matthews provided historical details.

The National Arboretum in Canberra confirmed the species after bark, leaves and pollen were sent for identification.

Together the group then pieced together the provenance of the tree.

Once one of a trio, the Stone Pine – known locally as a ‘monkey nut tree’- was planted around the time of the construction of Hay Gaol in 1879.

It is thought it was part of the gaol landscaping, perhaps selected by European settlers, who may have brought the tree as a reminder of home.

Pinus pinea is native to Spain and Portugal, and more recently the Mediterranean region, and Mr Deluca believes Italian immigrants may have planted it.

The pine nuts are a delicacy and many would remember collecting ‘monkey nuts’ and taking them home to crack open.

The tall Stone Pines from Hay Park were removed many years ago, which prompted the group to protect and commemorate the Church Street tree.

Mr Matthews recalled the day – around 10 years ago – when he discovered one Stone Pine had toppled over during the night.

A second was also damaged and removed, leaving just a single Pinus pinea to shade the playground.

On Friday afternoon community members gathered for the official unveiling of an interpretive sign.

Mr Matthews and Mr Deluca had the honour of unveiling the signage, before being joined by Ms Ware, Hay Landcare’s Jenny Dwyer and Kirstyn Thronder from Hay Shire Council.

The signage project was a partnership of Hay Landcare, Hay Shire Council and Hay Historical Society.

The tree will be included in Hay Shire Council’s Local Environmental Plan (LEP) so its preservation can be continued.

Hay Landcare has also requested Council to consider adding other historical trees within the township to the LEP. 

This article appeared in The Riverine Grazier, 10 December 2025.