Novocastrians have the chance to help name a wetland in Wallsend as they dig in to rehabilitate a nearby section of land and improve habitat for multiple endangered species.
City of Newcastle will launch the naming project this Sunday at the wetland near the Federal Park playground where residents will help plant more than 7000 native grasses, shrubs and trees as part of National Tree Day.
The community event will follow today's school-based celebrations, which saw more than 100 students from Plattsburg and Wallsend Public Schools join Councillors for a group planting session.
The next generation of conservationists made their mark on the Wallsend site by helping City of Newcastle establish more than 2000 new native plants while learning about local wildlife, including the endangered Black-necked Stork, Australia's only stork species.
Executive Manager Environment and Sustainability Marnie Kikken said these events are a key part of the Newcastle Environment Strategy.
"Young students are the environmental custodians of the future so we need to ensure they feel connected to their local ecosystems," Ms Kikken said.
"As part of the Newcastle Environment Strategy we aim to deliver targeted community engagement to strengthen the connection between residents and our natural world, while also expanding our urban forest.
"Participants in Sunday's National Tree Day celebration will not only restore a degraded section of land, they can also learn about pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and birds, and their vital role in the local ecosystem."
Students from Wallsend Public School join City of Newcastle's Environmental Assets Manager Karenne Jurd, Environmental Education Officer Eliza Hoyland and Ward 4 Councillors Dr Elizabeth Adamczyk and Deahnna Richardson to plant native grasses and shrubs at Wallsend.Dedicated volunteers will have the chance to make suggestions about the new title for the wetland, which is currently known only as 1C Minmi Road.
"We will then invite a panel of community members, Traditional Custodians and local businesses to decide on a name for the location" Ms Kikken said.
"We're hoping this process will encourage the community to connect with the area, facilitate the sharing of stories, and celebrate and acknowledge Aboriginal language and history."
Sunday's event will also feature wetland connection activities such as waterbug surveys, nature-based play and arts and crafts, as well as the opportunity to enjoy a guided tour of the wetland with City of Newcastle staff, where the community will learn about the value and importance of our urban wetlands, their protection and rehabilitation.
Adding to the celebrations there will be face painting, live music from local musicians, a coffee van and a free barbecue supported by the Newcastle Men's Shed.
This Sunday's event at Wallsend will be wheelchair accessible, and all ages and abilities are welcome to take part.
Volunteers should bring a water bottle and wear a hat, long sleeves and long pants for sun protection and warmth.
Gloves, watering cans, tools and equipment for planting will be provided by City of Newcastle.
