New life

WARRALILY is set to receive a makeover next month with residents coming together to plant up to 100 river red gums.

Part of the National Tree Day campaign, residents will restore the native trees once found along a shared pathway that bridges the community together.

Taking place on June 5 from 11am to 1pm, members of the community will transform the open space found along the central corridor on Southwinds Road and Chelsea Drive.

The pathway is a significant asset to the community as it connects the housing estates to the Armstrong Creek sporting oval, Village Shopping Centre, Armstrong Creek School and Oberon High School.

Event organiser and communications officer for the booming Warralily Estate, Nina Bendon, said the project has been a joint venture with the Warralily Community Garden 3217 Incorporation.

“They are doing amazing work in the community to get people interested in gardening, trees and the natural environment,” she said.

“They are currently working towards securing land for a community garden.”

Funded by the City of Greater Geelong which will provide the River Red Gums, the hard work will then be left up to the community volunteers who will be responsible for planting each tree.

Ms Bendon said the idea behind the day is not only to show the residents what Warralily Community Garden 3217 Incorporation is doing in the area, but to bring people together and beautify their region.

“River Red Gums are especially native to this area, you just have to look at Stewarts Reserve which is a well preserved part of Armstrong Creek and now a cultural heritage site.

“It’s what used to be in the area, so we are bringing it back.”

Ms Bendon said the project has already receive support from the community and City of Greater Geelong, however she is hoping to engage local schools, community groups, sporting clubs and local traders on the day.

During the event, volunteers will be able to enjoy a free sausage sizzle and refreshments.

“It is the first of many community tree planting days to come,” Ms Bendon said.

To register your interest contact email [email protected] or Nina Bendon on 0439523105.