Green thumbs are coming to Sunbury for a special tree planting event.
The Hume council-led event is part of National Tree Day during which thousands of people will help plant over one million local-native seedlings.
The event, held at Kokoda Drive native grassland reserve in Sunbury, will build on last year’s planting efforts, adding more wildflowers and native grasses in the north-western corner of the reserve.
This will expand the habitat for black-shouldered kites, also known as ‘thara’ in the Woiwurung language of the Wurundjeri people.
Council will provide planters with gloves, sunscreen, and all planting tools and materials, as well as water, tea and coffee to drink, and a pizza lunch with fruit snacks available.
Participants should wear weather appropriate clothing, as well as bring a rain and wind proof jacket, wear safe, fully enclosed walking shoes and bring a reusable water bottle.
National Tree Day is Australia’s largest tree planting event. Since 1996, 28 million trees have been planted.
Council deputy mayor Naim Kurt encouraged the community to take part.
“Every year we plant 1,000s of seedlings to add to Hume’s 160,000 trees and now we’re turning our attention to saving native grasslands,” he said.
“This year, we’re planting 3,000 native grasses and wildflowers to help restore one of Australia’s most endangered ecosystems.”
He said the whole community is invited to take part.
The Sunbury National Tree Day event will take place on Sunday, July 27, from 10am to 1.30pm.
For more information, contact council urban biodiversity officer Melissa Doherty at melissado@hume.vic.gov.au or 9205 2200.
