Tree planting day connects cultures at Hopper Crossing

More than 70 people braved the wintery conditions on Sunday to take part in a planting event at Skeleton Creek Reserve in Hoppers Crossing.  

The initiative, organised by Melbourne Water in partnership with NatureWest, brought together residents from different cultures, including migrants and refugees along with their families and friends.  

Melbourne Water’s Manager Diversity and Inclusion, Jill Sears, said it was a wonderful opportunity for everyone to meet new people, enjoy the outdoors and have a positive impact on the local environment.  

“It was a fun and relaxed atmosphere in which people of all ages made a valuable contribution to the future health of the Skeleton Creek area,” Ms Sears said.  

“There was plenty of enthusiasm. Together, we got 1,300 indigenous grasses and plants in the ground and had meaningful conversations about water catchment management, native habitats and caring for our environment.”  

The feedback from volunteers on the day, including Sherife Sarrac (centre), has been overwhelmingly positive.  

“We love planting as a family, but attending a public event like this gave us the opportunity to show our children we need to look after more than our backyard," she said. 

"It is not only us living on this planet. We are also responsible for our neighbourhood, our country, our planet.  

“It was an amazing experience for our family. The weather was cold, but touching the soil warmed our hearts.”  

Melbourne Water is committed to diversity and inclusion. It values different perspectives and aims to be as diverse and vibrant as the community it serves. Its mission is to enhance life and liveability for greater Melbourne through healthy people, healthy places and a healthy environment.  

Media Contact:  [email protected]