Together with Alpine Shire Council's Sustainability and Open Spaces teams, as well as local Landcare groups, students from primary schools across Alpine Shire have rolled up their sleeves for Planet Ark's National Tree Day.
Last week, leading up to National Tree Day on Sunday, 27 July 2025, and continuing throughout this week, students from local primary schools will plant hundreds of native trees, shrubs, and grasses across Bright, Dederang, Harrietville, Myrtleford, and Tawonga.
Plantings were chosen carefully to support local biodiversity and restore vital habitat, especially for the iconic and endangered Gang-gang Cockatoo.
Alpine Shire Mayor, Cr Sarah Nicholas, celebrated another year of successful collaboration between Council staff and local schools for this important event.
"I'm very proud to say that this is the tenth year that we have worked with local students, teachers, parents, and volunteers from across Alpine Shire to celebrate Planet Ark's National Tree Day," she said.
"This important initiative not only supports revegetation of endemic and indigenous flora throughout our public lands, but also teaches young people how to care for the land by ensuring prioritising local plantings to recreate natural habitats for native animals."
Cr Nicholas thanked the passionate staff, parents, and volunteers for their continued participation year after year.
"As much as we all care about our environment, it can be challenging to find time within our busy schedules to prioritise the care required," she said.
"Thank you to everybody that has participated over the past ten years and to those who continue to support our young people to develop a stronger appreciation for our local flora and fauna.
"I also extend my sincerest thank you to the multiple Landcare committees and group members across Alpine Shire, who consistently give their time to care for our lands."
All trees, shrubs, and grasses are sourced from Park Lane Nursery in north east Victoria, a for-profit social enterprise that provides meaningful employment for people with disabilities.
Community members can learn more about National Tree Day by visiting https://treeday.planetark.org