Dig in and help out at National Tree Day

Residents are being asked to roll up their sleeves and help plant trees near the popular Iluka Park in East Mackay while students will have the opportunity to be involved in the landscaping of the eagerly anticipated Pioneer Valley Mountain Bike Trails.

Mayor Greg Williamson said council was aiming to plant up to 5000 plants at this year’s National Tree Day events.

“Both projects will help to increase the region’s tree canopy coverage and provide essential shade at these popular recreational areas,” Mayor Williamson said.

“Mackay’s urban vegetation cover is relatively low, and it is also declining in some areas,” he said.

“With issues such as climate change expected to increase the demand for shade in coming years, events like this will serve us well into the future.

“It’s also a tremendous opportunity for students to play a part in the development of one of our region’s most exciting tourism projects in recent memory.”

National Tree Day will be held on Sunday, July 30, from 8am to noon at Sandfly Creek Environmental Reserve, Iluka Park, East Mackay.

If you would like to play a part in improving the future of our region, you can register as a volunteer for National Tree Day at treeday.planetark.org/site/10028301.

Please wear sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses and bring a water bottle. If you have your own gloves and gardening equipment, please bring them along. A free barbecue will be provided to everyone who participates in this event.

School’s Tree Day, in the Pioneer Valley, will be held on Friday, July 28, from 9am to 1.30pm and a number of students from schools across the region will be participating in this event.

National Tree Day and School’s Tree Day in Mackay are supported by Mackay Regional Council and Mackay Toyota.

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.