TO celebrate National Tree Day in 2024, local Councils have embraced current projects underway to help improve the streetscape and environment of the Western District.

National Tree Day, this year on Sunday, July 28, has presented a great opportunity to maintain and enhance the beautiful environment for local wildlife as well as ensuring the region continues to be a great place to live.

This week, Southern Grampians Shire Council Parks and Gardens team have been planting native trees along major local roads, and Moyne Shire Council will be giving away free trees at information sessions across the shire.

SGSC Natural Resource Management field officer, Marten Chin said around 150 trees had been planted so far to improve the streetscape and also to “cool the place down.”

“We’ve used lots of Australian natives, which attracts birds, gives shade, and also aesthetics,” he said.

Moyne Shire Mayor, Cr Ian Smith said council has been seeking residents to get their hands dirty for the environment and get the benefits that come from spending time outdoors.

“We’ll have a range of indigenous native trees available including species such as Red Flowering Gum and Broadleaf Hop Bush,” he said. 

“We invite people to come pick up their free tree at one of our community information sessions across the shire.”

Thursday, July 25

- Port Fairy, The Goods Shed. 9.30am-10.30am

- Koroit, Village Green. 11.30am-12.30pm

- Hawkesdale, memorial. 2pm-3pm

Friday, July 26

- Garvoc, playground. 10am-11am

- Mortlake, Market Square. 12pm-1pm

“The info sessions are also an opportunity to talk to our Environment team about environmental management in Moyne, and our Waste Education Officer about how council handles household waste,” Cr Smith said.

“And have a chat with our Emergency Management Officer about vegetation management around the home, and general fire safety.”