Green thumbs turn out to plant at Port

GREEN thumbs of all ages turned out to get their hands dirty and help the environment during a planting day in Portarlington at the weekend.

The Portarlington Community Planting Day on Sunday was the first of a series of community environment days hosted by Bellarine Bayside, with two more planned for July and August.

Coastal projects officer Jane Shearer said the community planting days were important for many reasons, which included community engagement, connection, getting outside and supporting the natural environment through planting local indigenous species.

Environment and planning manager Justin Smith said the days were also one of the best ways for people of all ages to learn more about the local environment by planting trees, shrubs and grasses alongside conservation staff.

“There are many mutual benefits to participating in a community planting day – not only are there improvements to the coastal environment, but research by Planet Ark has shown spending time in and connecting with nature provides a range of benefits to people’s wellbeing,” Mr Smith said.

“They’re also a bit of fun and a great social activity.”

Join Bellarine Bayside during their next community environment days on Saturday, July 10 in Indented Head or Sunday, August 1 in St Leonards.

The fun, family-friendly day activities are suitable for all ages with parent or guardian supervision required for all children.

For more details and to register your participation, please contact Bellarine Bayside on [email protected] or 5254 4000.