This autumn we wrapped up the first year of our Town and Country Trees for Collector project, bringing our highly popular subsidised paddock tree program to a new part of the district for the first time.
Nine participants signed up, with 215 trees, guards, weed mat, and cardboard guards on offer. It was great to see so many new faces getting involved and supporting the project.
As part of the project, we hosted a demonstration planting day at Bushranger Reserve on 30 May, supported by the Landcare Enabling Program. Long-time Landcarer Ruth Aveyard shared practical advice on giving paddock trees the best start, and experienced locals added their own insights alongside her. We planted five eucalyptus trees on the Reserve on the day, which will provide shade, shelter and wildlife habitat for years to come. The day also served as a collection point, with participants picking up their trees while getting hands-on with the process.
We also trialled a lighter, non-stock-proof guard this year, which we called the town guard. Uptake was lower than expected, so we’ll have 30 available again in spring. If they suit your situation, keep an eye out.
The Collector project has contributed 215 trees to a district-wide total of 2,104 paddock trees planted since 2022!
We are grateful to the Collector Wind Farm Community Fund for funding the trees and guards, and to the many volunteers that made this project a success.