Tree planting effort
A National Tree Day event in Drouin recently attracted 40 adults and 10 children.
The two-hour planting event at a site in Clifford Drive attracted participants from the Friends of Drouin’s Trees (FoDT) as well as community members who responded to letterbox drops and social media invitations.
Baw Baw Shire prepared the site, near the Summerhill wetlands, by spraying weeds and mulching. They also provided the tube stock and pots for planting.
FoDT site coordinator Jeff Smythe placed the pots and tubes ready for planting and FoDT members assisted community participants in the actual planting and putting on tree guards.
FoDT reflected it was a great opportunity to spread word about the importance of environment and network with families, children and community members. They gave away many showbags which included activity sheets, books and resources.
A morning tea was provided as the kids helped water in the new plants.
Three Corymbia ficifolias, Drouin’s iconic street trees, were planted by three groups of children. The children and their families were delighted that a tree had been planted and look forward watching them grow and establish. The kid’s names were written on a small marker at the base of the trees.
FoDT said the day was great opportunity to do something positive for Drouin’s environment, to expand the FoDT network and positively influence some young lives.
They thanked council for the variety of plants to provide good understorey vegetation for this area and great habitat for many bird species. A variety of native shrubs as well as grasses were also planted.
It is hoped that Drouin can have larger area and more trees to plant next year.
If you are interested in learning more about Drouin’s trees and environment, Friends of Drouin’s Trees will hold an information night on Monday, August 26.
The session will run from 6.30pm to 8.00pm at the Drouin Library meeting room. Entry is from the rear of the building. Tea, coffee and finger food provided. For further information, call Chris on 0488 187 440.