Central Coast News

National Tree Day is Australia’s largest community tree planting and nature care event.

Council’s Director Environment and Planning, Alice Howe said the National Tree Day initiative is led by Planet Ark, which aims to plant one million trees across Australia this year - with Council’s local planting events contributing to this goal.

“National Tree Day involves more than planting native trees to rejuvenate local areas, it’s also a chance for our community to learn about and get involved in conserving their local environment,” Ms Howe said.

“The Killcare Beach event will focus on stabilising sand dunes against wind and water erosion, while the Porters Creek event will highlight the importance of protecting our largest remaining freshwater wetland, which plays an important role in water quality of the Tuggerah Lakes and is home to a number of threatened species.

“Those in attendance at each event this year can also enjoy a range of environmental workshops, kids’ activities and live music – making it the perfect day out for all ages.”

Council Administrator, Rik Hart said that 26 million trees have been planted by five million volunteers in Australia since National Tree Day started in 1996.

“By helping plant a tree, not only are you playing a role in revegetating and helping to protect our local natural areas, but you’re also providing a habitat for native wildlife and making our community a better place to live,” Mr Hart said.

“I encourage you and your family, friends and neighbours to get involved, including getting your hands dirty, in support of this important national initiative!

“Coming together as a community and being in nature is not only great for our environment but is also beneficial for our health and wellbeing.”

Local planting events on Sunday 30 July:

• Killcare Beach, 9am-1pm
• Porters Creek Wetland, Wyong, 9am-1pm

Register on the day or pre-register online.

For further information about local planting events and to pre-register, search ‘Tree Day’ at centralcoast.nsw.gov.au

The National Tree Day event at Porters Creek Wetland, Wyong is undertaken as a partnership between Central Coast Council and Greater Sydney Local Land Services. This project was funded by the Federal Government's National Landcare Program.