Wrapped in Paper
This is the Freshwater Paperbark (Melaleuca rhaphiophylla), a distinctive tree of wetland areas. Look at the slender, needle-like leaves and pale, papery bark that sheds in strips from the trunk.

Many animals hide and feed in paperbarks. Waterbirds nest in the spreading branches. The bark and leaves shelter invertebrates and lizards. These animals are preyed upon by birds such as pardalotes, sittellas and butcherbirds.

Creamy white bottlebrush flowers appear from September to January and attract nectar-feeding birds and insects.