There was something a little different about the office for a dozen BUPA corporate volunteers on this wintry day.
Muddy boots, cold muscles, and the unmistakable sounds of a rural landscape.
Swapping their laptops for tree guards, our volunteers rolled up their sleeves to take part in a Landcare planting day at Walwa Park, a 46 acre small mixed enterprise farm in Upper Plenty.
Under heavy skies and the guidance of Landcare coordinator Chris Cobern, the group helped plant over 100 indigenous native trees and shrubs in one of the larger conservation zones at Walwa Park, comprising some eight acres of hillside and remnant vegetation, in part of a broader effort to restore habitat, improve water quality in the adjacent Bruces Creek, and bring back local birdlife.
The day was run by the Upper Plenty Merri Catchments Landcare Group (UPMCLG), whose volunteers aspire to promote conservation in rural landscapes and to steadily restore environments across a range of planting projects, both on public and private land.
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They provided the know how, the seedlings, and plenty of encouragement for the less cold-hardy among the corporate crew.
Walwa Park owner and local UPMCLG president David Markham said it wasn't just about planting trees.
"It’s about community, learning, and doing something practical that matters," he said.
"We really enjoyed having BUPA out here for the second time in as many years.
"Walwa Park has set aside some 25 per cent of its area as conservation zones, adjoining Bruces Creek and Dry Creek, as well as some hillside reserves.
"So there’s no shortage of future planting opportunity.”
For BUPA, the event was part of its broader sustainability and community engagement program.
And judging by the laughter, teamwork, and friendly planting rivalries, they all had a good time.
Settling into a BBQ lunch hosted on the old home's verandah ended a productive and enjoyable day.
Nest Box Building Day
Saturday 16 August, details in link.
Limited places available.
https://events.humanitix.com/nesting-box-workshop-6aj3nejn
