Volunteers answer call to grow the west

MORE than 200 volunteers gathered at the summit of Darley’s 1000 Steps on Sunday 19 July to plant and water 3,500 native seedlings.

Aiming to restore habitat and improve biodiversity in the region, individuals, families and grassroots groups volunteered as part of the 2026 Grow West community planting day hosted by Melbourne Water in partnership with Moorabool Shire Council.

Participants were put into small groups led by experienced volunteers. They planted natives with the goal to create more habitat and to enhance corridors between green areas in what is one of Moorabool’s most popular natural recreation locations.

Melbourne Water managing director Dr Nerina Di Lorenzo said the strong attendance showed residents’ commitment to restoring the local environment.

“We are proud to continue this collaboration,” Di Lorenzo said.

“The collective effort will help create more habitat for wildlife, improve connections between natural areas and support the long-term health and resilience of the region’s landscapes.”

The Grow West community planting day was also supported by Community Bank Bacchus Marsh, Friends of Werribee Gorge and Long Forest Mallee, Moorabool Landcare Network, Greater Western Water, Fifteen Trees, Bacchus Marsh Lions Club, Victorian Mobile Landcare Group, and the Victorian National Parks Association.

The Grow West planting days have been running for more than 23 years, aiming to bring people together through a mutual care for the environment.

Melbourne Water is the catchment management authority for the Port Phillip and Western Port region and Grow West is one of its landscape restoration programs that brings together residents, landholders and partner organisations to re-establish native vegetation.

Find more information at growwest.com.au