Luke, don't mess around with gum trees. As beautiful as they are, they are prone to falling suddenly and unexpectedly and that is one huge tree that could take out a couple of homes in the process. I've also found that if part of a tree dies, it can affect the balance of the rest of the tree so it becomes unstable even though it may look healthy. If an arborist says it needs to come down then I wouldn't waste time, you could void your insurance by not heeding advice. Do you need Council approval? Sometimes that can take a while to get.

That looks like an odd shaped, narrow angled back corner of the yard. Previously the big peppercorn tree filled it out, softened it and it looks like a cubby house enjoyed the cosy, secret corner behind the natural screen. One idea would be: firstly, get a stump grinder in to remove the stump which will otherwise limit any planting; secondly, plant a curved hedge of a suitable shrub (Murraya, bottlebrush, lilypilli...). Leave an opening at one or both ends of the hedge screen for access to the "secret corner". This might improve the shape of the yard and provide a useful utility area for compost bins, a small garden shed or other unsightly items.

I would not be inclined to plant a Murraya for your hedge. I have a Murraya hedge and am forever clipping it. The branches also become a bit thick to trim. The Indian Hawthorne pictured is in my opinion a more suitable plant. It flowers most of the year and is easy to keep in shape or can be left to grow naturally. It comes in whit or different shades of pink. The pink variety is a slower grower therefore less clipping. Go and have a look at the nursery to see if you like the foliage and flowers. I agree with the comment, not to try to keep the pines which somebody else has planted. This is your home now and you have the opportunity to design the garden. Good luck with your new garden. Jan

I don't have room in my current home for any sort of tree, not even a hat stand like pictured, so I can't wait till our new home is complete and I can put up a tree but I think the stand and the gifts looks perfectly acceptable and does still have the important Xmas spirit!! Well done Maria