National Tree Day on Sunday 30 July proved to be a huge success in Benalla Rural City, with 23 volunteers planting more than 300 native trees and shrubs along the Hollands Biolink Channel.
Organised by Benalla Rural City Council in partnership with the Regent Honeyeater Project, residents of all ages planted native shrubs and trees to mark the national day.
Mayor Cr Bernie Hearn said the community response was fantastic, with the turnout on the day a credit to the community’s appreciation and understanding for our natural environment.
“A big thank you to everyone who attended our National Tree Day celebration on Sunday. It was great to get outdoors, get our hands dirty and celebrate this important day with the community,” she said.
“Council will continue to spread the importance of maintaining and enhancing the environment for our native wildlife and to ensure our region is a great place to live.”
Volunteers on the day were privileged to have members of the Regent Honeyeater Project providing expert advice and assisting with the planting.
The Regent Honeyeater project has established itself as one of the most active volunteer conservation projects in the nation. Since 1995 the Regent Honeyeater Project has restored over 2000ha of habitat across our region.
Project coordinator, Andie Guerin said the trees would go a long way towards improving the calibre of this important green space.
“Overall we planted more than 300 native plants including eight indigenous varieties at the site, which will create diverse habitat for a range of native fauna and birds,” he said.
“This planting is being completed as part of a strategic revegetation program, including several other sites along the Hollands Biolink Channel.
“We have three planting weekends scheduled over the coming months and are always looking for more volunteers,” Mr Guerin said.
