The trees have been hosted at the Benalla Library and Benalla Community Care since 2009 and provides the opportunity to pay tribute to people and animals who are missing from people’s lives at a time when most communities are busy preparing for the festive season.

Those who have hung cards on the trees in the past have said that they value the opportunity to acknowledge those they have lost, whilst also including them in their Christmas festivities.

This year, the Christmas Trees of Remembrance will be on display in the Benalla Library and at the Ray Sweeney Community Care Centre from Wednesday 12 December.

The trees and the messages will stay on display till after Christmas, along with information about services in Benalla that support people experiencing loss and grief, including the Palliative Care service.

Anyone seeking assistance with loss and grief support is encouraged to call Benalla Community Health Service on 5761 4500