Central Highlands Council plants 300 trees as part of National Tree Day

This year’s National Tree Day will launch a range of new initiatives and competitions to assist with landscaping decisions across the Central Highlands.

Break out the inner green thumb on Sunday to help plant 300 new drought tolerant trees at Emerald as part of Planet Ark’s National Tree Day.

Break out the inner green thumb on Sunday to help plant 300 new drought tolerant trees at Emerald as part of Planet Ark’s National Tree Day.

Central Highlands Regional Council and Central Highlands Toyota have invited residents to assist them in planting the trees at the dog park on Rifle Range Road.

Mayor Kerry Hayes said the family and dog-friendly event was a great opportunity for the community to get together and do something good for the environment and man’s best friend.

“Over five million volunteers have planted over 25 million trees since National Tree Day began in 1996 and this year, I am excited to bring this event to Emerald’s dog park,” he said.

“With the current lack of water in the region it is important we continue to build a sustainable environment with plants that can survive our tough and dry conditions.”

General manager communities John McDougall said this year’s event would also launch council’s new Significant Tree Register competition and a first look at a new guide for planting the right trees in the Central Highlands.

“These two initiatives will work together to help council acknowledge the past significance of trees and also build a sustainable future of the fauna across our region,” he said.

“They will ensure important trees are preserved and the new ones planted are fit-for-purpose.

“We are so excited to launch our local planting guide that identifies eight tough, quick-growing and moderately-sized plant species matching the look and feel of the Central Highlands.”

Community members will also have the chance to win up to $200 by submitting photos their favourite trees across the region to be considered for the Significant Tree Register.

This register will assist council in regional landscaping decisions in the future, ensuring the nominated trees are protected and to help develop a list of trees that grow well in the area.

Central Highlands National Tree Day celebrations will be held on Sunday, August 1, from 8-10am at the Emerald dog park.

Participants are encouraged to take gardening equipment, a water bottle and hat, with a free BBQ provided by Central Highlands Toyota.