CARDINIA Shire Council hosted a community planting event in Bunyip to coincide with National Tree Day month on Sunday.
Residents, Bunyip Cub Scouts and Drouin Girl Guides joined Bunyip Landcare representatives at Bunyip Sanctuary to plant seedlings that would create a habitat for native animals such as the endangered southern brown bandicoot and help re-connect the community with nature.
National Tree Day manager Debbie Agnew said this year’s National Tree Day theme ‘Grow More, Just Add Nature’ highlights the power of nature in helping people reach their full potential.
“Research shows that we are becoming increasingly disconnected from the natural world, yet spending time in nature induces positive feelings such as relaxation, calmness, self-worth and enjoyment through a number of physiological mechanisms, including activating the brain’s dopamine reward system,” Ms Agnew said.
“In this digital age, Planet Ark is encouraging everyone to take 10 minutes each day outside and connect with nature.
“Participating in a National Tree Day activity in your community, workplace, school or backyard is a great way to reconnect with the world around us.”
National Tree Day was organised by Planet Ark in partnership with Toyota Australia and its dealer network which provides on-the-ground support at tree planting sites across Australia.
