In search of our 'Waddi Tree'

In search for ‘Our Waddi Tree’

In 1972 my father Murray Upton lead a CSIRO Entomological Expedition to the Simpson Desert through South Australia and the Northern Territory. Whilst at ‘Old Andado Station’, Dad’s off-sider, fellow entomologist John Feehan found a juvenile ‘Waddi Tree’ only 75cm tall. He drove a stake into the ground next to it so it’s slow growth could be monitored. This was the first time a Waddi Tree had been marked for measurement and research. This particular tree has subsequently been rediscovered in 1980 and again in 1986. More recently John Feehan’s family went in search of the tree but alas were unable to find it. Ongoing scientific research and recovery of this iconic and endangered Australian tree continues in the last few remaining ‘Waddi Stands’ of Queensland and the Northern Territory.

Now nearly 50 years on, I (Jim Upton) am leading an expedition from Noosa Queensland, to ‘Old Andado Station’ in the Northern Territory in search of that unique tree. We will virtually retrace the tyre tracks of the 1972 Expedition, revisiting documented camp sites and points of interest, in doing so we intend to create further awareness of the plight of Australia’s rarest tree. We also anticipate experiencing a boot load of fun along the way, showcasing the amazing camping and touring opportunities Australia’s vast ‘Interior’ has to offer.

We sincerely thank Road Tech Marine ‘RTM’ for their support in making this adventure a reality.