Ashburton College and EA Networks Centre reinforced their special relationship this week with the unveiling of a new plaque at the base of a commemorative tree.

The scarlet oak planted at the edge of the carpark replaces a tree donated by the college when the recreation centre was built 10 years ago.

Ashburton Mayor Neil Brown said the original tree had to be removed when the centre’s road entrance was reconfigured last summer.

“There’s been so much growth in the number of people using the centre that another traffic lane was needed but we’ve planted another tree in a more prominent spot to celebrate our relationship with Ashburton College.

“College students are big users of the facility, as part of school competitions or in their leisure time, and quite a few students also have part-time lifeguard roles. Some even go on to full-time jobs in the sport and recreation industry when they leave school.

“I want to acknowledge the school’s ongoing support as well as the effort students put in 13 years ago to raise $10,000 for EA Networks Centre when construction was just beginning.”

The original tree was planted on Sunday 15 March 2015, as part of the college’s 50th jubilee celebrations.

The new scarlet oak, or Quercus coccinea, is a deciduous tree with dark red bark and dark green foliage, turning a brilliant scarlet in autumn.

Mayor Brown was joined at the unveiling ceremony this week by Ashburton College principal Simon Coleman, head prefect Yasmin Larry and head of the student environment committee Lily Zhen.

Lily said the school was pleased to have both the tree and plaque established now for many years to come as a visible acknowledgement of the school’s support.

As part of community fundraising for the centre, the college repurposed its annual work day into a work weekend on 11-13 May 2012. Students undertook paid jobs in the community and collectively raised about $10,000.

EA Networks Centre was opened on 9 May 2015 and this year celebrated its 10-year anniversary by releasing concept plans for an outdoor mini golf course, which will be ready for play this summer.