Lithgow Landcare volunteers celebrated National Tree Day on Thursday, September 6, with the planting of hundreds of native plants and shrubs for the public to enjoy.
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Planetark’s national event, usually held in July, was celebrated at the slightly warmer time of spring in Lithgow. Over 400 saplings were introduced to their new home throughout the day, next to the Farmers Creek pathway near Albert Street.
Lithgow Landcare Coordinator Rechelle Fisher said residents can look out for a variety of species on their next walk along the pathway including callistemons, wattles and tea trees.
"Part of the Farmers Creek masterplan is involving the community to connect locals with the Farmers Creek area, and National Tree Day is a great way to do that," Ms Fisher said.
"Apart from the recreational benefits, planting along the creek creates a wildlife corridor through the urban area, which is pretty important with the national parks around Lithgow."
Roughly 25 volunteers, inluding Lithgow's mayor Cr Stephen Lesslie, helped mulch, plant and water the saplings at the event hosted by Lithgow Oberon Landcare and Lithgow City Council.
Damon Cupitt of Lithgow City Council said residents can expect more trees to be planted along the creek as well as more connecting bridges to be installed between pathways in the coming financial year.
The planting of shrubs along the pathways has so far been funded through the Environment Protection Authority's allocation of fine money deriving from the Clarence Colliery court case.
"That's what we are spening now but we will continue to search for grants and council funding," Mr Cupitt said.
Ms Fisher said volunteers were particularly needed for planting during spring and autumn.
"Volunteers are always welcome. Now we are doing a lot of planting."
You can join the volunteer planting group by calling 6354 9999 or emailing Rechelle.Fisher@lithgow.nsw.gov.au
