Council plants 20,000 trees along Freshwater Creek

A massive revegetation project involving the planting of 20,000 trees is underway along Freshwater Creek.

The trees are being planted to re-establish a vegetation corridor as part of the award-winning Redlynch Sport and Recreation Parklands Masterplan.

The project involves planting trees along the bank of Freshwater Creek, traversing seven hectares from Goomboora Park, past Glenoma Park and finishing at the Freshwater Creek crossing at the Cairns Western Arterial Road.

Over 40 native tree species, sourced from Council’s own Stratford nursery, are being used to revegetate the area which, until June last year, was a cane paddock.

Acting Mayor Terry James said it was a fantastic result for the community.

“When finished, this natural corridor will provide the community with another beautiful space to enjoy,” he said.

Local Government Minister Stirling Hinchliffe congratulated the Council on delivering the revegetation project for the community.

“This is a fantastic initiative and is exactly the type of project the Works for Queensland program is designed to support,” Mr Hinchliffe said.

“The Queensland Government is proud to have provided $2.1 million from this program towards the implementation of the Redlynch Masterplan.”

Cr James said special consideration was given when choosing the tree species for the revegetation project.

“The trees are native to the area, they attract birds, and provide food and shelter for native animals, and we are planting quite a few alongside the bike path to provide shade,” he said.

Local volunteer group Treeforce, which will plant a quarter of the trees, has already planted about 1800 trees.

Tree planting on the site is expected to be completed by July.

Treeforce volunteer planting days are scheduled for each Sunday until 7 July from 7.30am-9.30am. To take part, turn left off Portelli Road, Redlynch, onto the new bike path before the school carpark and follow the signs to the parking site. For information at www.treeforce.org.au or call 0435 016 906. Wear sun smart gear, covered shoes, gloves and bring water.