150 Greening Australia volunteers recently set a per capita record by planting 4,000 native trees and shrubs on the slopes around Pierces Creek, an important part of Canberra's water catchment.
The area, which was devastated by the 2003 firestorms, has been part of a revegetation program since 2004 and has seen over 3,600 active volunteers plant more than 120,000 native trees and shrubs in that time.
Greening Australia has a target for this year of planting 50,000 native trees and shrubs and the latest plantings took this year's total past 38,000.
"I have been volunteering with Greening Australia since this program commenced" said Member for Ginninderra Mary Porter "and always look forward to catching up with those who are regulars and also meeting those who have come along for the first time.
"With all the talk about climate change we often feel powerless to do anything meaningful, but going out to the Cotter on a beautiful Sunday morning, and working with hundreds of other Canberrans, is one way that we are able to make a real difference.
"Something I have noticed over time is the number of young families that are now coming along. Its great to see children with their parents, and in many cases their grandparents, helping to dig the holes and plant the young trees.
"Its a great way for everyone to meet fellow Canberrans and to make a real contribution to our environment and I encourage Canberrans to become Greening Australia volunteers and make a real, practical contribution "
Gallery 2008 Image 35
