Goondiwindi Regional Council and St Mary’s School enhance the natural beauty of Goondiwindi through an annual enviro-project

• Goondiwindi Regional Council co-hosted the annual tree planting with students from St Mary’s School
• A selection of 60 flowering and bird-attracting native trees were planted at the Goondiwindi Natural Heritage and Water Park
• Year three students listened to a talk by a representative from MacIntyre Ag Alliance and enjoyed a barbeque sponsored by Tait Toyota

Goondiwindi Regional Council Park and Gardens staff and St Mary's School students planted 60 native trees at the Goondiwindi Natural Heritage and Water Park to enhance the region's natural beauty on Friday, 15 September.

Council co-hosted the tree planting day, alongside Tait Toyota and MacIntyre Ag Alliance, as part of the celebrations for National Tree Day. 

Mayor of the Goondiwindi Region, the Honourable Cr Lawrence Springborg AM, welcomed the 52 year three students and thanked the organisations involved for their contribution to the planting day.

Parks and Gardens staff also assisted the budding green thumbs in planting a selection of flowering and bird-attracting native trees, including Grevillea Scarlet Sprite, Grevillea Winter Delight, Grevillea Ned Kelly, Callistemon Little John, and Callistemon Pink Champagne, in newly created garden beds.

Councillor Lachlan Brennan, who holds the portfolio for Lifestyle, Education, and Technology, praised the students, saying their enthusiasm to get their hands dirty was inspiring.

"This year, the collaboration between Council, St Mary's School, Tait Toyota and MacIntyre Ag Alliance shows a proactive approach towards education and environmental awareness," Cr Brennan said.

"Council chose the mix of native plants due to their resilience to thrive in our local climate and not require much water."

After planting, Parks and Gardens staff assisted the students in mulching the garden beds and shared their knowledge about the importance native tree species bring to avian pollinators and water conservation.

Louise Carmen from the MacIntyre Ag Alliance delivered an informative talk to the students, explaining the importance of sustaining a healthy environment through tree planting and growth.

The student green-thumbs enjoyed a barbeque sponsored by Tait Toyota, whose presence at the event was supportive and informative as they shared their gardening knowledge.