VOLLIES BRAVE THE ELEMENTS TO PLANT TREES

29-08-2008
Grey skies that promised – and delivered – a regular drenching didn’t deter a 135-strong band of committed volunteers from turning up to last Sunday’s National Tree Day planting at Marlee Reserve.

Volunteers of all ages worked alongside staff from the City of Mandurah to plant 3000 native trees and shrubs which will absorb carbon dioxide when they grow and trap it for years to come.

City of Mandurah Chief Executive Officer Mark Newman said trees also helped to combat salinity, reduce soil erosion, clean underground water systems and provide habitat for wildlife.

“The City’s revegetation programs place great importance on creating healthy, functioning ecosystems that support biodiversity, which includes understorey species, shrubs and trees,” Mr Newman said.

“Our volunteers have done a tremendous job over the past three National Tree Days, with around 1000 volunteers planting a total of 10,000 plants.”

Marlee Reserve is now starting to take shape and rehabilitation is coming along well, according to Mr Newman.

“The planting site will be watered over the first summer and looked after by the Friends of Marlee Reserve, local residents and the City’s bushland crew,” he said.

Thanks to local businesses Mandurah Toyota, Baker Delights in Meadow Springs and Rumps Butchers who contributed towards the success of National Tree Day.

RELEASE ENDS

1 August 2008

Last modified 29-08-2008 08:56 PM