Kookaburra,
I had a Mulberry in my current garden that I intended to keep but keep pruned back but that task was near on impossible as they are extremely fast growing. The only time that they are not going beserk is when they are dormant and leafless in winter. So the mulberry had to go.
Andrew.

Thanks Andrew - I think I'll look into dwarf mulberries. Would welcome any other ideas for a shade tree from other subscribers. Kookaburra

I like the Mulberry tree, but it is deciduous and can be messy with leaf and fruit drop.
There must be many options to suit you.
My knowledge is limited, but you'd probably be better off visiting a good nursery (is Fairhill up your way? and there are probably other good ones) with a paper and pencil.
This is what I do - I go through all the plants at the nursery, read the labels, and jot down names of all which appeal, then ask the gardenwebbers for their opinions and experiences with each plant.
I also check google for additional info. You may get also get ideas if you type in rainforest plants/ or rainforest pioneer plants ...
I prefer to see what is available for purchase than to search for something which sounds great but is impossible to find.

The Mulberry is one of the worst environmental weeds in SE Qld. Please don't plant one, especially near rainforest in the Sunshine Coast hinterland.

What size tree are you looking for? If you want a big tree, what about a Eumundi Quandong or a Black Bean or something like that?

If something smaller is required, try a Pink Evodia or a Lilly-Pilly or maybe a Tree Waratah.

There are so many beautiful native ranforest trees that there is really no need to look any further. Just go to Fairhill Native Nursery and they'll give you any number of options.

Paul