Residents and gardening enthusiasts are invited to use their green thumbs this National Tree Day to plant 6000 trees, native shrubs and ground cover.
The tree planting event will take place at Wheelie Park in the Gables on Sunday 28 July from 9am – 12pm. A complimentary barbecue hosted by Castle Hill Lions Club will also run during the event.
Two smaller tree-planting events will be held at Crane Road Reserve, Castle Hill on Sunday 21 July from 1pm to 3pm and at an already booked out event at Oxlade Reserve, North Kellyville on Sunday 4 August. Attendees at both these events will also enjoy a complimentary barbecue.
Mayor of The Hills Shire, Dr Peter Gangemi said he is looking forward to joining the community to grow the area's tree canopy.
"According to the NSW Government's tree coverage mapping, since 2019, canopy coverage in The Hills has increased from 23.5 per cent to 29.1 per cent," Mayor Gangemi said.
"This is a terrific result, and I'm determined for us to continue this trend, especially in our newer suburbs, like the Gables.
"This year, we seek to plant 1000 more trees than we did at last year's National Tree Day event across the three sites. I am encouraging our community to come together to support and help revitalise our local environment."
National Tree Day is Australia's largest community tree planting and nature protection event held annually by Planet Ark. Over one million new trees, shrubs, and grasses are planted across the country each year.
Gardening tools, trees, and plants will be provided on the day. Participants are encouraged to bring a hat, water bottle, gardening gloves, and sunscreen.
To register for the National Tree Day events, visit The Hills Shire Council's website, www.thehills.nsw.gov.au, and search for 'National Tree Day 2024.'
