5 July 2011

Strathfield Council is calling on Strathfield residents to make a positive contribution to the local environment by getting involved in Australia’s biggest community tree planting and nature care event on Sunday 31 July.

Strathfield will host a National Tree Day and family fun day event at Dean Reserve, Strathfield South from 9am – 1pm for residents to come along, plant a tree and enjoy a great family day out.

“National Tree Day is a great opportunity for the community to get involved in a fun and friendly local event, to connect with the community and look after Strathfield’s parks. It’s easy, fun and a small investment of time for great environmental and community benefits,” said Mayor of Strathfield, Tony Maroun.

National Tree Day, a Planet Ark initiative, began in 1996 with more then 2.5 million volunteers planting 16 million native trees, shrubs and grasses in 15 years.

In 2010 Strathfield residents took to Dean Reserve to help plant over 2000 native plants and this year, the aim will be to add another 1600.

Dean Reserve, one of Strathfield largest recreational facilities, is located along the Bay to Bay Cycleway and forms part of the Cooks River habitat corridor. Plantings on National Tree Day will continue to enhance the parkland with habitat and screen plantings, increase biodiversity and provide an opportunity for the community to contribute to their local environment.

For those that come along to plant a tree, Council are offering some family entertainment to say thank you. Stay for a BBQ while the kids enjoy a reptile show, animal farm, jumping castle, kids craft and face painting.

This year’s Schools Tree Day will be held on Friday 29 July.

For more information about National Tree Day at Dean Reserve, click here.