New competition celebrating the City’s trees

The City of Whittlesea has launched a new competition in the hunt for the community’s favourite tree in 2024. 

Council is inviting residents to submit a photo of their favourite tree in the City for the chance to be published in the April 2024 edition of Council’s newsletter Local Scoop. The winner will see their photo of their favourite tree showcased to more than 90,000 households.  

Alongside their submission, locals are asked to share the meaning behind their selected favourite tree, with personal stories of their significance to individuals and families expected to be told; perhaps its about the amazing local wildlife you have seen in our trees, fun memories of climbing trees, family picnics held in the shade of a tree on a scorching summer’s day or the sheer beauty of our majestic river red gums. 

In April 2021, Council adopted the Greening Whittlesea – City Forest Strategy which sets out plans for the protection, growth and management of the City’s trees and green cover. As part of this plan, Council is aiming for a 20 per cent increase on the City’s existing green cover by 2040 as trees bring important health, economic, and environmental benefits. This past financial year, the City of Whittlesea has planted more than 7,000 trees in streets, conservation reserves, parks and open spaces. 

City of Whittlesea Chair Administrator Lydia Wilson said the impact of trees goes far beyond their appearance and aesthetic value; they make oxygen, store carbon dioxide, improve our biodiversity and cool our suburbs. 

“Council is dedicated to growing and maintaining our city forest, and this competition is a way to celebrate and share the many benefits and impact of beautiful trees in our community and the vital role they play in shaping a sustainable future for everyone.” 

“Trees play such an important role in all of our lives. They provide us with clean air, shade from the summer heat, a sense of serenity and wellbeing and they are a vital habitat for our native wildlife. Trees provide a healthier, happier and more sustainable future for us all.”

To enter the competition, submit a photo of your favourite tree before the competition closes on 12 February 2024 by visiting www.engage.whittlesea.vic.gov.au/treecomp24