Tree planting provides shelter for koalas

Rain, hail or shine, everyone is invited to a community tree planting day at Southern Cross University's Lismore campus on Saturday, March 11.

If it's wet, bring your gum boots and a raincoat. If it's sunny, don't forget the sunscreen, water and hat.

It will be a day for the whole family to get together and plant trees that will feed and provide shelter for the local population of koalas, says Nicholas Kostyn, a member of SCU's Sustainable Environment Working Group.

The general public, staff and students are invited to help plant an avenue of trees along Bundjalung Way, the university entrance off Kellas Street.

Members of Lismore's five Rotary clubs, Summerland Sunrise, Lismore Central, Lismore West, Lismore and Goonellabah, who have supported the university's tree planting program, will also attend.

The Rotary clubs have generously donated their time and energy as well as contributing towards trees and the covered picnic shelters which now grace Widjabal Park and overlook the lake adjacent to Bundjalung Way.

An added bonus is that participants will be among the first people to examine the rare and endangered Wollemi pines which will also be planted on the day.

SCU has managed to secure the trees prior to their official release to the general public next month.

Wollemi pines have survived 17 ice ages and were thought to be extinct until they were discovered in a remote Blue Mountains ravine in 1994.

SCU Facilities Management and Services, who have organised the day, will provide a sausage sizzle and light refreshments. Planting starts at 8.30am. Holes will have been pre-dug.