Project branches out for greater good

MILDURA’S riverfront will be the focus of a new project from this weekend to celebrate and encourage appreciation of the role trees play in our region.

The Mildura Riverfront Tree Trail will be launched on Sunday in partnership with Greening Mildura.

Tree tags will be placed on 27 native and exotic trees between the Nowingi Playground and Jaycee Park, explaining some of the interesting benefits of trees, such as their ability to cool the air and produce oxygen.

Tree Trail maps will allow residents to follow the trail of trees along the riverfront, learning about each species and their benefits along the way.

Maps and activity sheets will be available from Bobby + Me Cafe and Shippy’s Cafe as part of the trail.

Councillor for Environment and Sustainability Jodi Reynolds said the initiative would help build appreciation in the community for trees and the aesthetic, environmental and health benefits they provide.

“We want to share some of the benefits of trees in a relatable way so that the next time residents walk past a tree they may see it in a whole new way,” Cr Reynolds said.

Greening Mildura’s April Fuda said the Tree Trail would not only be a fun activity for the whole community to enjoy, but a powerful education tool.

“Trees and plants are not only beautiful, they have enormous economic, environmental and health benefits, they’re actually essential to life on earth,” Mrs Fuda said.

“Projects such as our Tree Trail are a great way to share this knowledge with everyone from small children through to adults, which will hopefully make them see the beauty around them in a new light.”

Tree tags will remain on trees from this weekend, allowing residents to take part in the Tree Trail whenever they like.

People have been encouraged to enjoy the Tree Trail in line with COVID-safe guidelines, including wearing masks while outdoors and practising safe social distancing.