Help celebrate 30 years of Australia's largest nature care event
Published on 21 July 2026
Mackay residents are encouraged to get their hands dirty this weekend to help celebrate a major milestone for the iconic nationwide National Tree Day event.
Since its inception in 1996, volunteers have contributed more than 10 million hours planting trees, restoring habitat and gaining a deeper understanding of their natural environment.
Mackay Mayor, Greg Williamson, said National Tree Day and the School’s Tree Day (July 24, 2026) are a great way for the community to have a lasting positive impact on the environment.
“This year we are again returning to Glenfields Park in Glenella to continue the tremendous work done over the last few years to improve the riparian corridor along Goosepond Creek,” Mayor Williamson said.
“Over the last two years, our local school students and community members have planted almost 6000 tubestock plants in the area, expanding the width of riparian vegetation and restoring the health of this important urban waterway,” he said.
“It’s incredibly valuable for the community to be able to clearly see the impact of the previous work and the ongoing commitment to improving the area.”
Plant species have been chosen to reflect the types of vegetation that would have grown along Goosepond Creek prior to clearing. These include melaleucas, eucalypts as well as various ground covers and shrubs.
“This project is part of a larger multi-year greening initiative and helps not only to improve the natural environment, but also create cooler suburban areas,” Mayor Williamson said.
“Trees can reduce temperatures in urban environments by up to 20 degrees and vegetation contribute to improved air quality and provide habitats for native wildlife.”
It’s the 17th consecutive year that council has partnered with Planet Ark to host the National Tree Day events.
Getting involved is easy; just register at National Tree Day.
Please wear sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses and bring a water bottle. If you have your own gardening gloves, bring them along too.
A free barbecue will be provided by Mackay Host Lions Club to everyone who participates in this event.
National Tree Day and School’s Tree Day in Mackay are supported by Mackay Regional Council.
Stay up to date on all the latest urban greening events and initiatives by subscribing to council’s urban greening eNewsletter at connectingmackay.com.au/urban-greening