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This article was published on Sunday, 19 July, 2015. The information contained within may be out of date or inaccurate. News articles and media releases older than 60 days are archived for future reference.

National Tree Day highlights value of nature the community

The local National Tree Day event is taking place in Tassicker Reserve at 100 Kittles Road, Shepparton, on Sunday 26 July. Activities start from 10.00am until 1.00pm with a free BBQ provided.

“National Tree Day is the perfect opportunity to continue the great work from last year’s efforts and connect with nature and the local community,” said Mayor Dennis Patterson.

National Tree Day is Australia’s largest tree-planting and nature care event. Each year over 200,000 people take part in National Tree Day events at 3,000 sites organised by councils, schools, businesses, communities and Toyota Dealers across the country. Since Planet Ark launched National Tree Day in 1996, more than three million participants have planted 21 million native trees, shrubs and grasses.

This year National Tree Day’s theme, “You Can Grow So Much”, focuses on the wealth of opportunities engaging with nature brings to individuals, communities and the environment.

Findings of independent research* commissioned by Planet Ark over the last four years has found that contact with nature provides a range of health and wellbeing, social and financial benefits, and that despite increased screen time and longer working hours, Australians still clearly value homes, neighbourhoods, workplaces and schools with access to nature.

“Trees and plants provide environmental and aesthetic benefits but that’s just the start,” says National Tree Day Manager Debbie Agnew. “They help us grow in many aspects of our lives. Trees improve air quality, help control the heat in cities and urban areas, and have countless health benefits such as reducing stress, improving concentration and promoting physical activity. Time in nature helps us thrive!”

National Tree Day is organised by Planet Ark in partnership with Toyota and its Dealer Network, which provides on the ground support at local community tree planting sites Australia-wide.

To find out more about National Tree Day locally please contact Greater Shepparton City Council on 5832 9700 or visit greatershepparton.com.au, for schools please visit treeday.planetark.org.