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More than 200 volunteers rolled up their sleeves at the iconic 1000 Steps in Darley on Sunday, planting and watering 3,500 native seedlings to help restore habitat and improve biodiversity west of Melbourne.
On the 2026 Grow West community planting day, individuals, families and community groups from far and wide gathered at the summit of 1000 Steps, enjoying sweeping views while contributing to a lasting environmental legacy.
Working in small teams led by experienced volunteers, participants planted native plants that will create more habitat for local wildlife and strengthen connections between natural areas in one of Moorabool's most popular natural locations.
For more than 23 years, the Grow West planting days have brought communities together to support local landscapes and care for the environment.
Melbourne Water Managing Director, Dr Nerina Di Lorenzo said the turnout highlighted the community's commitment to restoring the local environment.
“We are proud to continue this collaboration. The collective effort will help create more habitat for wildlife, improve connections between natural areas and support the long-term health and resilience of the region’s landscapes,” added Di Lorenzo.
Grow West is a landscape restoration program, hosted by Melbourne Water as the Catchment Management Authority for the Port Phillip and Western Port region. The program brings together communities, landholders and partner organisations to restore native vegetation across the landscape.
The 2026 planting day was delivered in partnership with Moorabool Shire Council, with support from Community Bank Bacchus Marsh, Friends of Werribee Gorge and Long Forest Mallee, Moorabool Landcare Network, Greater Western Water, Fifteen Trees, Bacchus Marsh Lions Club, Victorian Mobile Landcare Group and the Victorian National Parks Association.
