Plant for the future

Deakin University staff at a recent staff and student tree planting day at Waurn Ponds. (Supplied)

Local organisations are partnering for a special tree planting event next weekend as part of the Geelong Nature Festival.

Hosted by Deakin University in collaboration with Corangamite Catchment Management Authority (CMA) and the City of Greater Geelong, Plant it Forward invites community members to get hands-on with restoring native vegetation in our region.

Running from 9.30am to noon on Friday, July 18 at Jarvis Oval in Waurn Ponds, Plant it Forward aims to improve the health of the Waurn Ponds Creek and support the recovery of native species, including the Yarra Pygmy Perch.

Deakin deputy vice chancellor David Halliwell said it was important to care for Country.

“To support sustainability being embedded within Deakin’s culture as one of our core values, we’re looking forward to hosting the wider community in strengthening the environmental and cultural health of this important landscape,” the Deputy Vice Chancellor said.

“It’s an opportunity to come together and make a meaningful contribution to the renewal of local indigenous plant life. It reflects our shared commitment to caring for Country and enhancing local biodiversity.”

Corangamite CMA chief executive Amber Clarke said her organisation was “proud to support Deakin University’s Plant it Forward tree planting day”.

“Corangamite CMA is proud to support the restoration efforts by Deakin University of the Waurn Ponds Creek as part of the CMA’s suite of State Government funded Green Links projects,” Ms Clarke said.

“Plant it Forward is a great opportunity for the community to see how this funding is delivering on the goals of improving both the health and amenity of urban waterways.”

The event is free but bookings are essential. Visit geelongaustralia.com.au/naturefestival for more information.