Tree planting to promote World Environment Day
The University of the Sunshine Coast and Chancellor State College will join forces in a major tree-planting exercise tomorrow (Thursday 29 May) as an early celebration of World Environment Day.
USC plant scientist Dr Stephen Trueman and a team of University academics and students will help 200 Year 8 students plant eucalyptus seedlings around the college grounds from noon to 1pm, weather permitting.
Dr Trueman, whose current research into “koala trees” focuses on the types of eucalypts that koalas prefer, said the students would plant more than 400 swamp mahogany and pink bloodwood seedlings.
He said the exercise would have many benefits, including adding to a wildlife corridor for native animals and birds, and encouraging children to care for the environment.
“This gives us a chance to educate the next generation on important environmental issues,” he said. “We can get them involved in actively planting trees and helping the environment, and showcase how much USC is doing for environmental conservation.”
Dr Trueman said the trees also would contribute to a revegetation program in the Mooloolah River catchment area that is likely to boost water quality in the river.
On Saturday 21 June, the University campus at Sippy Downs will be the venue for the Sunshine Coast’s World Environment Day festival from 9am to 4pm.
Thousands of people are expected to attend the festival which has been organised by the Sunshine Coast Environment Council, Sunshine Coast Regional Council, SEQ Catchments and the University of the Sunshine Coast.
It has the theme “Small footprints, big steps – our region's future” and will feature innovative green technologies and businesses, forums, workshops, live music and activities for children.
— Claire Bruynius