By Jodie Symonds
Over 20,000 native plants are expected to be planted across two days to assist Coranderrk return to working farmland.
As part of the Yarra4life program, conservationist Dave Wandin is looking for volunteers to help plant seedlings on Sunday 9 April and Sunday 7 May.
He said the planting days would be aimed at forming a foundation for future beef cattle to live on the land.
“I’m very passionate about this whole project,” Mr Wandin said.
“We’re planning to plant natives including redgum and swamp gums.
“It’s going to be an interesting day and it’s a lot of work.”
The planting days will also be used to create habitat for the Helmeted Honeyeater and Leadbeater’s Possum.
“It’ll create proper shelter for them for sure,” Mr Wandin said.
He said he’s expecting about 120 people to attend, but would like as much help as possible.
“We want to plant over 8000 plants in the first day – it’s going to be pretty difficult,” he said.
“But, we’re offering a barbecue lunch which some interesting food like crocodile, kangaroo and emu – and of course normal sausages for those who don’t want to eat that.
“We’re trying to get the land back to what it used to be when it was used for farming.”
Corporate groups including the Catchment Management Authority and the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning will also be in attendance.
“We’re very excited for this project to be happening and we hope we get a lot of people’s help,” Mr Wandin said.
The day will begin with a welcome ceremony, discussion about Coranderrk, its history and plans for the future.
After a three-hour planting session there will be a lunch break, then a guided tour around the land.
A hat, gloves and sensible shoes are required for the day, as well as a raincoat if rain is forecast.
For more information or to register, email coranderrktreeplanting@gmail.com and detail your preferred day, your name, the number of people attending and a contact email or mobile number. Coranderrk is located on 19 Barak Lane, Healesville.
