Last week, Cami and Jo from the Australian Mutual Bank's Sustainability Committee traded their office chairs for gardening gloves and headed out to the Lucas Heights Conservation Area in Sydney's south. Their mission? To help Greenfleet restore a native forest on Dharawal Country. Greenfleet is an Australian environmental not-for-profit organisation that plants biodiverse native forests that are protected for up to 100 years. Biodiverse native forests capture carbon emissions to help protect our climate, improve soil and water quality and provide habitat for native wildlife.
The day kicked off with an Acknowledgement of Country by Graham Avery, Sutherland Council's Natural Areas Aboriginal Heritage Officer. His insights into the rich history and significance of the land set the tone for what was to be an inspiring day of digging, planting, watering and a whole lot of laughter. Brad and the team from Sutherland Shire were also on hand, guiding the volunteers as they set about their eco-friendly endeavours.
Armed with picks and an enthusiasm that could rival a kid in a candy store, Cami and Jo got to work. By the time the day was done, they had planted no less than 60 native plants, contributing to the grand total of 1,100 trees put into the ground by all the volunteers. Ironbark Eucalyptus and Turpentine were among the species planted, essential to restoring this endangered Sydney Turpentine Ironbark Forest. This effort not only helps preserve a legally protected ecosystem but also supports potential habitats for koalas, possums, and other wildlife in the region.
While Cami and Jo may have returned to their desks with a few extra blisters, they also brought back a sense of accomplishment and a renewed commitment to making the world a greener place, one tree at a time.
Thank you Greenfleet for restoring our native forests and growing climate hope.
Photo: Australian Mutual Bank staff with Aboriginal ranger Graham
