FREE plants will be given away to Kingston residents as part of a bid to increase local vegetation.
Kingston mayor Georgina Oxley said “we are committed to expanding our biodiversity and increasing our canopy cover and vegetation across the city.” “Unfortunately, we have seen a decline in our tree canopy cover over the past decade and we are very keen to turn that around,” she said. “The giveaways are one measure we are taking to achieve this, along with undertaking a major planting program, supporting community-led initiatives and school-based programs, and developing a community education program.
“Our community understands the importance of our urban forest, but there is work to be done to shift the way we think about, value, protect and enhance it. A great place to start is picking up some trees, shrubs, grasses or groundcovers and adding to your garden.”
Council’s giveaway events take place at:
Saturday 3 May, 9am – 12pm, The Grange Reserve, Clayton South
Friday 9 May, 9am – 12pm, Carrum Indigenous Nursery, Patterson Lakes
Tuesday 13 May, 9am – 12pm, Carrum Indigenous Nursery, Patterson Lakes
Saturday 17 May, 9am – 12pm, Kingston Heath Reserve, Cheltenham
Around 1000 plants will be given out at each event. Attendees must have a valid ID with their address to receive a plant. For more information visit kingston.vic.gov.au/free-plants.
First published in the Chelsea Mordialloc Mentone News – 30 April 2025