More than 2,000 new trees are putting down roots at University Drive as Bundaberg Regional Council and CQUniversity team up to celebrate National Tree Day.
The joint planting project features a mix of dry rainforest species across a 2,000-square-metre embankment, creating a natural green buffer at the border between the Bundaberg Waste Facility and the university.
Beyond transforming the landscape, the new trees will provide habitat for local wildlife, boost biodiversity and help create a cooler, greener environment for years to come.
The project coincides with CQUniversity’s National Tree Day planting activities, with even more species to be planted across the campus – ensuring the partnership continues to grow.
Mayor Helen Blackburn said National Tree Day was the perfect opportunity to celebrate a project that would benefit the community long into the future.
“Every tree we plant today is an investment in tomorrow and these 2,000-plus trees will leave a lasting legacy for our region,” she said.
“Working alongside CQUniversity has allowed us to create something that’s both practical and environmentally significant.
“The new planting will soften the landscape, enhance biodiversity and establish a thriving green corridor.”
CQUniversity’s Associate Vice-President for the Wide Bay region Rod Ainsworth said that it was important for the university to support National Tree Day activities as part of its commitment to sustainability.
“We are excited to partner with Council on this planting project as it improves the look of campus grounds, while also providing habits for the diverse wildlife that call our campus home,” he said.
“Staff, students and visitors to the Bundaberg campus value the green spaces we offer and being able to connect with nature while working and studying, so we are always trying to ensure we maintain and improve this.
“The trees planted today add to vegetation that has already been planted on campus over the past 12 months, including several native and edible species.”
National Tree Day, celebrated officially on Sunday 26 July, is a Planet Ark initiative that encourages communities to take part in Australia’s largest tree planting event.
Find out more here.
