Geelong Cats players and members helped plant more than 1000 native shrubs, grasses and trees along the Moorabool River.
The planting day took place at the Fyansford Common on Friday 16 August with the goal of restoring the land alongside the river.
City of Greater Geelong recently undertook extensive weed removal along the Moorabool River and the initiative with the Geelong Cats forms part of a long-term habitat restoration project to rehabilitate the understorey plant species that have long been missing from this landscape.
As the planted seedlings grow, they will provide essential habitat for reptiles, birds and insects as well as for larger animals such as koalas.
The partnership also allows Cats members to put their complimentary $20 Cats Shop voucher towards the Cats’ Plant a Tree program.
Geelong Cats chief operating officer Simon Kelleher said the club was proud to be able to build on the planting program started last year.
“We are thrilled to continue our planting partnership with City of Greater Geelong, support this important revegetation work and use our platform in the community to highlight the importance of green initiatives like the planting day,” he said.
“As a club, we are committed to investing in positive actions for our environment, and we are pleased to see the support from our members both in choosing to contribute the value of their Cats Shop voucher towards this initiative, and those who were part of the planting session today.”
Geelong Mayor Trent Sullivan said Council was thrilled to partner with the Geelong Cats to green the Moorabool River.
“On behalf of council, I thank the Cats fans, members and players who will be getting their hands dirty for a good cause,” he said.
“The City would also like to recognise the dedication and effort of the Friends of Buckley Falls and the Geelong Environment Council.”
