Green thumbs: Council invites community to tree planting day this weekend

This weekend, as part of National Tree Day on Sunday, Maitland City Council is inviting residents to grab a shovel and join in on the planting of 400 seedlings at Metford Oval.

Interested Maitland residents are invited to Metford Oval on Schanck Drive, Metford from 10am to midday on Sunday (August 1) to join in on the planting effort in the reserve next to the oval.

"By being part of National Tree Day and planting a tree you can connect with the environment and create a habitat for native animals and a greener place for us all to enjoy," council's manager of environment and sustainability Catherine Pepper said.

"Council recognises the need for greenery in our urban areas, and as part of our current project of developing an Environmental Sustainability Strategy, we will continue to provide opportunities for both community planting events and practical on ground environmental projects."

Participants on the day need to wear enclosed shoes, wear appropriate clothing of long pants and sleeves, and make sure they bring protection from the sun. It is recommended participants bring their water and own gloves if they have them. A COVID Safe plan will be in place for the day, with a QR code and sign in to be undertaken before participating.

Schools will also play their part in celebrating National Tree Day with 11 schools across Maitland planting 420 seedlings supplied by Maitland City Council in their school playgrounds on Schools Tree Day on Friday (July 30).