"We are definitely coming back again next year" was the phrase heard repeatedly at Sunshine Coast Council's National Tree Day celebrations.
More than 350 pairs of willing hands planted 3000 native trees, shrubs and groundcovers at the Doonan Creek Environmental Reserve in Verrierdale yesterday, Sunday July 28.
Families from across the Sunshine Coast had a fun morning at the tree planting event, with 196 adults and 159 children contributing their efforts.
Environment Portfolio Councillor Jenny McKay said it was encouraging to see so many people, especially young families, volunteer their time to support Australia's biggest tree planting event.
"What an amazing opportunity for people of all generations to come together and help us make a difference," Cr McKay said.
"These incredible efforts have helped restore an area that will become habitat for koalas and other wildlife.
"On behalf of council, I'd like to share our heartfelt gratitude to all volunteers who took time out of their weekend, joined together and enhanced our natural environment.
"And I'm thrilled to hear that so many volunteers came back for their second or third years, and even better that they plan on participating again next year.
"So book in Sunday July 26, 2020 in your diaries for next year's National Tree Day!"
Council's event was aligned with Planet Ark's National Tree Day, which began in 1996 and over time, has seen 25 million trees planted by 4 million volunteers.
In addition to special one-off planting events, council's BushCare Sunshine Coast team coordinate regular community, school and corporate planting events and working bees across the region.
Please visit council's BushCare Sunshine Coast website (www.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au/bushcare
