Flame trees have been immortalised in song. The lyrics in the headline come from one of Cold Chisel’s greatest hits, 1984’s Flame Trees. Presumably Council is not too worried about the safety risks, however, as the iconic tree has been planted in many public places, from the bus stop at Stanwell Park to the high street of Thirroul to the grounds of Wollongong Botanic Garden.

We asked Wollongong City Council: ‘How many flame trees has Council planted