This autumn we wrapped up another successful round of our subsidised Biala Paddock Tree Project, with 435 paddock trees and guards distributed to landholders across the district.
The project continues to attract strong interest, with around half of participants taking part for the first time this year. It was encouraging to welcome so many new landholders to the program while also seeing returning participants expand their paddock tree plantings.
A highlight of the 2026 project was the introduction of a streamlined distribution process. In previous years, volunteers and participants had to cut the steel mesh into individual guards at working bees. This year, we sourced pre-cut guards, significantly reducing volunteer workload while still providing the robust protection needed to give young trees the best chance of success. Participant feedback on the new guards was overwhelmingly positive.
We were also pleased to partner with Gunning Ag, whose support with distribution made the collection process easier and more convenient for participants. Having a local collection point helped simplify logistics and contributed to the smooth delivery of the project.
This year’s trees were sourced through Yass Area Network’s Climate Ready Revegetation Project, providing participants with species selected to help landscapes adapt to changing conditions while continuing to deliver shade, shelter and habitat benefits for generations to come.
Since the paddock tree program began in 2022, over 2,000 paddock trees have now been planted across the district with generous support from the Biala Wind Farm. Every tree contributes to a healthier landscape by providing stock shelter, improving connectivity for wildlife and helping ensure future generations of paddock trees thrive.
We thank the Biala Wind Farm Community Fund for supporting this project and all participating landholders for their ongoing commitment to enhancing biodiversity and resilience across our region.