Portarlington Email Tree to end

THE founders of the Portarlington Community Email Tree say it’s time for the initiative “to relax in the paddock, as it were” after its 15 years of service to the Portarlington community.

Since 2009, the Portarlington Community Email Tree has helped community groups share information, news and ask for help in an easy way.

The community email chain has been used to call-out for volunteers for events, share information about new projects in town and provide streamline communication between traders and individuals.

Co-founder Elizabeth Turner said the tree had served its purpose “proudly”.

“The email tree is now hibernating and can return when there is an urgent need to share vital information quickly,” she said in a final email to tree users.

“So many social media options are now available for community groups to share their message, and the ways for groups to reach each other has changed quickly.

“My thanks to local groups, City of Greater Geelong, Bellarine Community Health and so many more who contributed to the tree.

“To all those who read the tree, volunteered because you read it in the tree, or went to an event or had your say, I personally thank you.

“You all nurtured and grew the tree.”

Members who contributed to the tree gathered for a special get-together at the Portarlington Miniature Railway last month for a final goodbye.

“Thank you to representatives from community groups and tree readers who came to the for the final goodbye photo,” Ms Turner said.

“You and so many others made the tree successful.

“It was a great chance to catch up with all of them, and I also thank the Portarlington Bellarine Miniature Railway for allowing us to gather at the station.”