Snapshot in Time: Olive tree planted in 1853 marks home of Dr Thirkill Foley, Geraldton’s first doctor

In 1853, on the banks of the Chapman River, an olive tree was planted on the site of Dr Thirkill Foley’s home. Dr Foley was the first doctor in Geraldton and one of the earliest pioneers in the Champion Bay area, arriving in Geraldton on November 20, 1849. In 2014, a joint project between the Geraldton Historical Society and the Geraldton Regional Library resulted in an interpretive sign being installed to mark this historic tree. The sign was unveiled by historian Stan Gratte who researched Dr Foley’s story and brought it to the attention of the Geraldton Historical Society and the Greater Geraldton City Council. Other local trees of significance include the leaning trees of Greenough and the Moreton Bay Fig trees on the Geraldton Foreshore. Snapshots is an initiative of the Geraldton Regional Library. For more information, or to donate a historical photo or slide contact 9956 6659 or library@cgg.wa.gov.au