Matong was the site of a working-bee on the June long weekend, as local residents were joined by visitors to plant around 1200 native seedlings.
Around two dozen people worked to develop the landscape at the park in town and surrounding properties, with a number travelling from Melbourne to lend a hand.
The initiative was a partnership between the Matong Community Group and Red Earth Ecology that was assisted by Coolamon Shire Council.
“This was the fifth event we’ve held in the Matong area since 2014,” said Jo Roberts of Red Earth Ecology.
“Our landcare group started at Burning Seed, where I’ve run tours in the State Forest to help visitors recognise features in the local environment.”
“Locals had knowledge to share, particularly the late Brian Jones, and we’ve revegetated paddocks, as well as undertaking weed removal at the Burning Seed site.”
Sonya Spencer and Dave Currie’s property has gained a number of treelots in previous years and Ms Roberts worked with them to coordinate the recent plantings.
“In recent years I’ve met a number of residents in Matong,” said Jo Roberts.
“I was able to meet with them at their homes and identify native plants for their gardens and properties.”
Locals were pleased to receive the plants from Red Earth Ecology.
“The enthusiasm of the community was demonstrated in their hard work and it will be exciting for visitors to see when they return for Burning Seed in spring,” said Ms Roberts.
It was the first of a number of urban revegetation activities planned by the Matong Community Group and Red Earth Ecology.
Photos by Mal Evans and Sonya Spencer