PROTECTION of tree canopy across Sydney has become of great importance to local councils.
In an effort to inspire local residents to care and learn about tree canopy protection, Willoughby City Council launched the Canopy of Life Tree Festival on the 29th of May.
As the first of its kind for the Willoughby LGA, the Festival will consist of a programme of free workshops and talks, speaking on the necessity of eco-consciousness, providing valuable information on topics such as tree identification and forest bathing, while offering advice of how to manage trees on private property. Families are encouraged to participate in interactive bushwalks as part of the programme.
Since 2011, Willoughby’s tree canopy in residential areas has reduced by 13 hectares. By inspiring residents and providing opportunities for learning through this event, Willoughby City Council are hoping to secure the future well-being of tree canopy.
‘We need every Willoughby resident to understand and appreciate the hugely important role that trees play in sustaining the planet and human life,’ said Willoughby City Council Mayor Tanya Taylor, in her launch speech on the 29th of May at the Incinerator Café.
‘6,000 years ago, the region’s trees were vital to the Gammerayal people,’ continued Mayor Taylor. ‘Fast forward to today and very little has changed… the community’s reliance on trees has expanded, given the ever-increasing need for their role in cleaning the air we breathe, and providing habitat and food for many endangered native species.
The Canopy of Life Tree Festival was coordinated by the Environment Education team at Willoughby City Council, following council’s commitment to the “Love Your Trees” campaign. Mayor Tanya Taylor announced that in the coming financial year, Willoughby City Council are investing an additional $2million in public maintenance and canopy management.
Highlights of the Festival include the “Conversations on Trees” Symposium at the Chatswood Library on the 5TH of June, with keynote speaker Greg Mullins, former fire chief and climate activist.
In partnership with the Environmental Club at Willoughby Girls High School, Council, staff and students have developed two new walking “Tree Trails”. Students selected trees to be incorporated on the trails, with information about the trees and their environmental impacts accessible for residents along the route.
‘Each and every resident has a civic responsibility to think about the greater good,’ said Mayor Taylor. ‘As a united local community, we can preserve Willoughby’s environment for future generations to enjoy, and play our part in tackling the global climate emergency.’
