Celebrate National Tree Day by planting native plants!

Published on 26 July 2021

Cr Rutherford and Cr Kirkland - Native Plant Program

In the lead up to National Tree Day Sunday 1 August, Rockhampton Regional Council is this week kicking off its annual Native Plant Program giveaway.

Residents are invited to pop in to Customer Service Centres at City Hall, Gracemere and Mount Morgan to pick up two native plants for their backyards.

Water and Environmental Sustainability Councillor Donna Kirkland said the Native Plant Program is part of Council’s Bringing Nature Back initiative and the plants selected offer wonderful benefits to our backyards and the wider Region.

“In conjunction with Council’s Nursery, the Environmental Sustainability team have arranged for four types of plants to be available to residents at Council’s Customer Service Centres,” Cr Kirkland said.

“This year, the species on offer include hop goodenia, narrow-leaved hovea, velvet cassia and golden penda.

“Native plants are adapted to thrive in our local conditions, provide food and shelter for wildlife, help to preserve biodiversity, and create a more appealing environment for everyone.

Parks, Sport and Public Spaces Councillor Cherie Rutherford said that National Tree Day is the country's largest nature care and community tree planting event.

“Over 25 million trees have been planted by more than 4 million people around the country at National Tree Day events since 1996,” said Cr Rutherford.

“It is an absolutely wonderful initiative that not only encourages people to get out and get involved in their community, but has an incredible long-term impact.

“It is fantastic to visit sites from past National Tree Day plantings and see the difference that we’ve made together over the years.

“It will be a wonderful day for everyone who wants to come along, roll up their sleeves, and pitch in!”

Free native plants will be available at Council’s Customer Service Centres from 9am – 4:30pm on Tuesday 27 July to Thursday 29 July 2021 at:

  • Rockhampton Customer Service Centre (232 Bolsover Street Rockhampton)
  • Mount Morgan Customer Service Centre (32 Hall Street Mount Morgan)
  • Gracemere Customer Service Centre (1 Ranger Street Gracemere)  

National Tree Day plantings will take place from 9-11am on Sunday 1 August. Head to the following links to register at your preferred location and go in the draw to win one of three prize packs: