Orange Anglican Grammar has renewed calls for the removal of a large tree on its school grounds, saying the 18-metre-high tree presents a potential safety hazard for students and the wider school community. The school’s principal, David Smith, has raised concerns about the tree following a previous student death in 2014 and several more recent incidents described as near misses.

The issue has become a significant safety concern for the Orange school as staff and the school community consider the risks associated with maintaining such a large tree in an area used by students. The principal has argued that the history surrounding the tree, combined with more recent incidents, demonstrates the need for action.

The tree has particular significance because a student died in an incident connected with it in 2014. While the circumstances of the earlier death remain an important part of the school’s concerns, the school is now also focused on preventing another serious incident. Recent near misses have added to those concerns and strengthened the school’s argument that the tree should be removed.

For school communities, large trees can provide shade, environmental benefits and an important part of the landscape, but they can also create safety risks when there are concerns about their condition or location. The decision to remove a mature tree can therefore involve balancing environmental considerations with the safety of students and staff.

Principal David Smith has made the case for removal as a precautionary measure, arguing that the potential consequences of another incident need to be taken seriously. The matter is attracting attention in Orange because it involves a well-known local school and a tree with a history connected to a tragic event.

The school’s position comes as authorities and communities across regional NSW continue to consider safety measures in public and educational spaces. Any decision regarding the tree is expected to take into account safety assessments and the relevant requirements surrounding vegetation management.

The report published today does not indicate that a final removal date has been confirmed. The immediate focus is on the school’s concerns and its request for the tree to be taken down because of the perceived risk.

The situation highlights the difficult decisions schools sometimes face when environmental features become potential safety hazards. For Orange Anglican Grammar, the combination of the tree’s size, the 2014 tragedy and recent near misses has prompted the school to seek its removal.

The story was published today by the Blayney Chronicle, which covers news from Orange and surrounding Central West communities.