Rotary is looking forward to its Monster Tree Planting session on Sunday, June 16, and has called upon district residents to help plant 3,500 trees along the banks of the Goulburn River.
Environmental causes are a high priority for Southern Mitchell Rotary with its welfare and well-being projects funded by the Southern Mitchell Rotary Recycle Op Shop in Kilmore.
Rotary was founded 110 years ago and is the largest non-government funded provider of educational and humanitarian aid. Volunteers are encouraged to join at any time.
The trees will help protect the nearby Goulburn River from salinity. Healthy vegetation helps to extract high levels of salt in the soil, and prevents it from leeching into waterways where it can impact flora and fauna.
The Monster Tree Planting project has operated for 23 years, and over 123,000 native trees have been planted on bare hilltops and along creeks within the district. This year, the grassy fields along the banks of Sugarloaf Creek are targeted.
In readiness for the 2024 Monster Tree Planting, local seeds have been collected and propagated and 100 volunteers are needed to help Rotarians finish the job.
On the day, volunteers can expect to find teams of four people planting, and another team following them with stakes and tree guards for protection. Rotarians have already dug the holes for the planting.
Rotary will supply all the necessary tools, morning tea, and lunch. Volunteers will need to dress warmly, wear sturdy shoes, and bring their own gloves. The day starts at 9am at 375 Broadford-Glenaroua Road, Broadford.
To register interest for the Monster Tree Planting day, please contact Ian Dempsey on 0419 890 015 or email dempsey@bigpond.com.
