AFLW Cats dig in to improve the environment

GEELONG Cats AFLW players, members and staff teamed up with the City of Greater Geelong to plant more than 1000 native shrubs, grasses and trees along the Moorabool River on Friday.

For the second year, the planting day took place at Fyansford Common, with the goal of restoring vegetation alongside the river. As the planted seedlings grow, they will provide essential habitat for reptiles, birds and insects as well as for larger animals such as koalas.

Geelong members wanting to support the initiative could put their complimentary $20 Cats Shop voucher towards the Geelong Plant a Tree program.

In its second year, this membership option aims to support local revegetation projects, enhance the environment and help biodiversity thrive while creating a sense of community spirit and ownership.

The planting initiative between the City and the Cats forms part of a long-term habitat restoration project to rehabilitate the under-storey plant species that have long been missing from this landscape.

Geelong chief operating officer Simon Kelleher said the club was proud to be able to build on the planting program started last year.

“We are thrilled to continue our planting partnership with City of Greater Geelong, support this important revegetation work and use our platform in the community to highlight the importance of green initiatives like the planting day,” Mr Kelleher said.

“As a club, we are committed to investing in positive actions for our environment, and we are pleased to see the support from our members both in choosing to contribute the value of their Cats Shop voucher towards this initiative, and those who were part of the planting session today.”

Geelong mayor Trent Sullivan said the city was thrilled to partner with the Geelong Cats to green the Moorabool River.

“This planting day demonstrates how Council and the Cats’ values about preserving nature, sustainability and volunteering strongly align,” Cr Sullivan said.

“Collaboration is key to making a difference on a larger scale and we’re excited to be creating positive environmental change that will benefit the community for years to come.

“On behalf of the council, I thank the Cats fans, members and players who will be getting their hands dirty for a good cause.”

Cr Sullivan said the city also recognised the dedication and effort of the Friends of Buckley Falls and the Geelong Environment Council.

“Their members have volunteered over many years to help make the parkland along the Moorabool and Barwon rivers a place rich in biodiversity that the community can experience local wildlife,” he said.