On National Tree Day, 26 July, we got together with the Loch-Nyora Landcare Group to plant 1,500 trees along the Great Southern Rail Trail in Nyora. Over 40 volunteers of all ages turned out, and we couldn’t be prouder of what the community achieved in a single morning.
All 1,500 plants were donated by the South Gippsland Seed Bank, and the Rotary Club of Korumburra kept everyone fuelled with a sausage sizzle by the firepit.
Pedal & Plant has run since 2022, inviting volunteers to walk, ride or even come on horseback to help revegetate the trail’s easements. “It’s a popular event for families and people new to tree planting,” says Jane McKenzie-Smith, our Network Facilitator. “Local school kids decorate the tree guards ahead of time and are keen to help install them with their families.”
Stretching more than 130 kilometres from Nyora to Yarram, the Great Southern Rail Trail is one of the longest in Australia — and a great opportunity to build an ecological corridor supporting species like the Strzelecki koala.
Thank you to everyone who made the day possible: Loch-Nyora Landcare Group, South Gippsland Seed Bank, South Gippsland Shire Council, The Rotary Club of Korumburra, Melbourne Water and the Victorian State Government. See you out on the trail next year!
