From Raindrops to Ropes – WA Climbers Rise Above the Weather

admin813249
Nov 4
5 min read

Updated: Nov 25

The rain didn’t dampen spirits at the 2025 WA State Tree Climbing Championships, held in October at the Perth Hills Discovery Centre. Despite bouts of drizzle, 25 climbers took to the trees in an unforgettable weekend of skill, speed, and community spirit.

Climbing to New Heights

The preliminary events saw competitors tackle five demanding disciplines — Aerial Rescue, Work Climb, Ascent, Belayed Speed Climb, and Throwline — testing every aspect of technical ability and physical endurance.

After having climbed all day on wet and slippery trees, only three climbers advanced to the Masters Challenge - the ultimate test of speed, accuracy, and skill.

When the ropes finally came down, Luke Osborne emerged as the new 2025 WA State Champion, claiming top honours with strength, finesse, and focus.

“I have been climbing since I was 18,” said Luke. “I knew I had one more good day in me — and I’m thrilled it was this one.” He now sets his sights on representing WA at the Australian Tree Climbing Championships in Tasmania in 2026.

The organisers, left to right: Joe Carriera, ArbWest, Guy Badger, Arborguy. From ArbWest: Marco Morgado, Jolyon Elliott, Pia Finnigan, Steven Barker, Nick Hayes, Dave Crispin.

Seasoned competitor Pascal Oosterik took second place, also winning the Aerial Rescue and Ascent events. Reflecting on the competition, he shared, “Keeping your head calm is just as important as technique. I was happy with second place.” His advice to novice climbers: “Have passion, ask for support — we’re a great community of climbers.”

Rounding out the podium was first-time competitor Lucas Burt, whose determination and athleticism earned him third place overall and thunderous applause from the crowd. “It was hard!” he admitted. “It was a big day, and I was stoked to get through to the Masters.”

The Crowds Came Out

Despite the unpredictable weather, the crowds came out in full force — families wrapped in raincoats, kids jumping in puddles, dogs tugging on leashes, and the smell of barbecue in the air. Spectators gathered to watch the action, cheer on competitors, and explore the machinery and equipment on display.

The championships were hosted by ArbWest, supported by a dedicated committee and an incredible group of volunteers.

“A lot of hard work went into organising this event — from securing the venue and council permits to coordinating competitors, judges, exhibitors and volunteers,” said Jolyon Elliott, ArbWest committee member and competition judge. “We’re so proud of what we achieved, and we can’t wait to host an even bigger event next year.”

Industry Champions Behind the Climbers

The event wouldn’t have been possible without the generous support of sponsors and exhibitors.

WA TreeWorks was one of the major sponsors and also had team members in the trees, competing.“We see the Championships as a fantastic opportunity for our industry to come together,” said Steven Barker, General Manager and ArbWest committee member. “It’s not just about competition — it’s about safety, innovation, and community spirit.”

Ellenby Tree Farm, an ArbWest Silver Corporate Partner, was also proud to lend their support by providing a selection of beautiful native trees for the winners. “Sponsoring the Championships aligns with our core value of supporting the community,” said Craig Woodroffe, General Manager. “This event represents the strength and resilience that defines our profession.”

Kimberley Tree Care made their mark on the event — not only as a sponsor, but with several team members stepping up to compete.“We’re proud to support an event that celebrates the professionalism and passion of arborists,” said owners Marco Morgado and Marta Rodrigues. “It’s about sharing knowledge, building connections, and inspiring the next generation.” Marco also served as a judge on the day and is a dedicated ArbWest committee member.

For Hayes Tree Care, sponsoring the adrenaline-filled Aerial Rescue event was a perfect fit.“It’s great to support something that brings together skilled arborists who share our love for trees and the outdoors,” said owner Nick Hayes, also an ArbWest committee member. “The Championships celebrate talent, safety, and professionalism — everything our industry stands for.”

Coastline Mowers sponsored the Masters Challenge, and also had an exhibition stall, continuing over 20 years of support to the local arborist community. “We’ve added a huge range of arborist climbing and safety gear to our lineup,” said Tim Stuart, Store Manager. “It’s great to see our equipment being used by the best climbers in WA.”

And from Treeswest, General Manager Dave Crispin summed up the feeling shared across the industry:“This year’s Championships were a huge success, despite the weather. We’re proud to support such an important event that brings our community together.”Dave Crispin, who also serves as ArbWest’s Acting President, played a key role in organising the event.

CSP Distribution and Stihl Shop Osborne Park donated prizes for the winners, as did Husqvarna Australia.

CSP Distribution Direct Alex Witt commented:

"We’ve been part of the arboriculture community for over 30 years, and it’s always a pleasure to support events like the WATCC. It’s a wonderful family day out and a great chance to showcase the talent of our WA climbers. We’re proud to be involved and look forward to continuing that partnership well into the future."

There was also a large exhibition of arborist equipment and machinery on display at the Perth Hills Discovery Centre.

Vermeer Equipment of WA & NT, an ArbWest Gold Corporate Partner, was one of the exhibitors. Tree Care Specialist Sam Hayes said:

“We decided to exhibit at the Tree Climbing Competition because it’s a great opportunity to be among other members and businesses in the arboriculture industry, and to showcase some of our machinery in a hands-on setting.”

Another ArbWest Gold Sponsor is training specialists RelyOn, who had a stall at the event.“At RelyOn, we see this event as a vibrant celebration of talent, passion, and community,” said Martha Waterson, Senior Arboriculture Qualifications Manager. “We’re proud to support the climbers who are setting the standard for excellence in our industry.”

Other exhibitors were ArbWest’s Silver Corporate Partner Tree Care Machinery; Bronze Corporate Partners Schaffer Loaders and Avant Equipment who all showed their arborist equipment. Kask Helmets came along to show their arborist helmets for the first time in WA.

When all the prizes and presentations were finally over and the crowd drifted away through the damp forest paths, one thing was certain — the 2025 WA State Tree Climbing Championships had once again shown the best of Western Australia’s arboriculture community.

2025 Event Highlights

Masters Challenge – Final Results

1. Luke Osborne – State Champion 2025

2. Pascal Oosterik

3. Lucas Burt

Event Winners

• Aerial Rescue – Pascal Oosterik

• Belayed Speed Climb – Riki Peterson

• Ascent – Pascal Oosterik

• Throwline – Luke Osborne

• Work Climb – Kye Nordine