Alpine eucalypt bark in Tasmania

© Australian Scenics/Getty Image

Barking up the right tree. Nature’s art gallery

Forget expensive art museums, we’d be more excited taking a stroll through Mount Field National park to catch glimpses of unique gallery-worthy wonders like this stunning eucalyptus tree. But while a lot of attention is given to the eucalypt’s leaves, its bark tells a more interesting tale. During periods of growth, for example, old bark will gradually dry out and peel off from the tree - often revealing a wide gamut of colourful patches underneath. This visual makeover not only helps the tree remain healthy over time, but also removes any moss fungi and parasitises that may have taken up residence on the bark. The discarded material doesn’t go to waste, either. Indigenous people across Australia are known to use bark to make canoes and shields.