Green thumbs unite for National Tree Day

Published on 18 July 2022

Green thumbs unite for national tree day .jpeg

Singleton residents are being encouraged to get their hands dirty for a community planting day at Robinson’s Reserve in celebration of National Tree Day.

Over 1,000 native tube stocks will be planted at the event on Sunday 31 July from 11am to 1pm. Everyone is welcome to get involved.

All event participants will receive a free bag of compost made from the green material collected from local households via the Organics Service, plus a free BBQ lunch.

Mary-Anne Crawford, Council’s Acting Director Infrastructure and Planning Services Group said National Tree Day was one of the best ways the Singleton community could lend a hand in improving the local environment.

“National Tree Day is a fantastic way for people to get outdoors and connect with nature and the community, and together do something great for the local environment,” she said.

“Planting a tree goes far beyond just beautifying local parks ̶ it helps cool the climate, provides a home for native wildlife and improves our community’s local amenity.

“The people of Singleton have a true passion for sustainability, and National Tree Day goes to the heart of that by bringing people together to enrich our local environment. We also know how much the community loves our Garden Organics compost giveaways, so I encourage everyone to round up their family and friends to Robinson Reserve on Sunday 31 July for a great morning of tree planting, plus enjoy a free BBQ lunch and compost giveaway.”

Ms Crawford said local children were being encouraged to not only roll up their sleeves to plant a tree at the event, but also participate in Council’s National Tree Day Colouring-In Competition.

“It’s really important that Singleton’s smallest citizens take part in sustainability initiatives like National Tree Day – it’s a fun, hands-on activity to explore, discover and connect to nature as well as understand the importance of the environment and its future care” she said.

“The Colouring-In Competition is a great way to get kids involved and is available to download from the Sustainability Hub on Council’s website.

“Kids can bring along their entry on the day for their chance to win one of 10 $20 Spend in Singleton gift cards.”

National Tree Day is a national initiative by Planet Ark and is Australia’s largest tree-planting and nature care event. Each year more than 200,000 people take part in National Tree Day events at 3,000 sites across Australia. Volunteer registration will occur on site prior to participation. Children under 18 years old must be registered by a parent and supervised at all times. All participants should wear sun-safe clothing including a hat, and sturdy shoes and bring a water bottle to stay hydrated. Planting resources will be available, however participants are encouraged to bring along their own gloves and spade. A free BBQ will be held at the conclusion of planting.