About Us
Cutting Edge Tree Maintenance – Newcastle's Qualified Arborists
Our Trees. Our Knowledge. Our Responsibility.
Cutting Edge Tree Maintenance is a locally owned and operated arborist business providing professional tree services across Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Port Stephens, the Hunter Valley and surrounding regions. We believe trees are valuable assets, and every decision we make is guided by safety, compliance, and long-term tree health.
Our work is led by a fully qualified Level 5 Arborist (AQF5), supported by trained arborists and tree contractors with extensive experience working in complex residential, commercial and public environments.
From high-risk tree removals in Newcastle to detailed diagnostics and preventative maintenance, we deliver arboricultural services built on technical knowledge and real-world experience.
Qualified Arborists. Proven Experience.
Since 2015, our team has delivered safe, reliable tree services for homeowners, strata managers, businesses and government clients throughout the Newcastle region. We regularly work on properties with tight access, mature trees, proximity to structures, and high public exposure.
Our arborists are trained to assess tree structure, identify defects, evaluate risk, and recommend appropriate management options. Where possible, we prioritise tree retention through pruning, treatment and risk reduction. When removal is necessary, it is carried out using controlled, professional methods.
Learn more about what separates a qualified arborist from untrained operators in our guide on the difference between an arborist and a tree lopper.
Our Arborist Services
We provide a full range of professional tree services, delivered by qualified arborists and supported by appropriate equipment and safety systems:
- Arborist Services
- Tree Removal
- Tree Pruning (AS 4373 compliant)
- Hazardous Tree Assessment & Risk Advice
- Tree Diagnostics and Treatment
- Dead Wooding
- Stump Grinding and Removal
- Emergency Tree Removal
- Arborist Consultation
Safety, Compliance and Risk Management
Tree work is high-risk by nature. Our systems are designed to protect people, property and the surrounding environment.
Every job begins with a site-specific risk assessment. We establish exclusion zones, assess structural integrity, consider powerline and access risks, and select appropriate work methods before cutting begins.
Our operations are supported by a comprehensive Workplace Health and Safety (WHS) Policy, updated in January 2024. All staff are trained in their respective tasks and audited to ensure safe work practices are consistently applied.
We align our pruning practices with AS 4373 – Pruning of Amenity Trees and apply recognised arboricultural principles when managing trees in residential and urban environments.
Insurance and Professional Protection
We carry insurance appropriate for professional arboricultural work, including public liability and workers compensation coverage. This protects our clients, our staff, and neighbouring properties during all stages of tree work.
Choosing a properly insured arborist reduces risk and provides peace of mind when tree work is undertaken near homes, vehicles, fences and public areas.
Council Awareness and Local Knowledge
Tree removal and pruning in NSW can be regulated by local councils, even on private property. Our arborists are familiar with council requirements across Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Maitland, Cessnock and Port Stephens.
For further information, see our detailed guide on tree removal permits in Newcastle and Lake Macquarie.
Service Areas
We proudly service a wide range of locations across the region, including:
Newcastle: Charlestown, Merewether, Lambton, Kotara, Mayfield, Hamilton, Cooks Hill, Waratah, Wallsend and surrounding suburbs.
Lake Macquarie: Warners Bay, Belmont, Swansea, Valentine, Toronto, Cardiff, Edgeworth and neighbouring areas.
Hunter & Surrounds: Maitland, Cessnock, Kurri Kurri, Singleton, Raymond Terrace and Port Stephens.
Explore our local services such as Lake Macquarie tree removal and tree services across Newcastle.
Why Choose Cutting Edge Tree Maintenance?
- Qualified Level 5 Arborist leadership
- Risk-based, safety-first approach
- AS 4373-aligned pruning practices
- Comprehensive insurance coverage
- Clear communication and honest advice
- Strong reputation with 4.9-star Google rating and 94+ reviews
About the Owner
John Rickards is the owner of Cutting Edge Tree Maintenance and a fully qualified arborist based in the Newcastle and Lake Macquarie region. John brings extensive hands-on experience in arboriculture, tree risk management and urban tree care, and is committed to delivering professional outcomes that prioritise safety, compliance and long-term tree health.
If you’re looking for reliable, professional arborist services, contact Cutting Edge Tree Maintenance today for expert advice and a free quote.