Whittlesea council is running its favourite tree competition again this year.
Residents are encouraged to submit a photo of their favourite tree and a short story about why it’s special.
Mayor Lawrie Cox said trees do so much more than just add beauty to local streets.
“Trees cool our neighbourhoods, clean our air, support native wildlife and create peaceful places for us all to live and play,” Cr Cox said.
According to the council, there were 35 entries last year.
Joan Tolliday from Wollert, won the competition last year and said the majestic gum in Belknap Conservation Reserve has been her favourite since moving to Wollert in 2016.
“I love its majesty and estimate it has been here for hundreds of years. It is one of my favourite trees to photograph, especially at sunset as the sun’s rays meander through the branches,” Ms Tolliday said.
The winner of the competition will receive a copy of Silent Sentinel: The Story of a Redgum by local artist Amaria Stark.
The winner will also have their photo featured on the council’s scoop newsletter and on the greening Whittlesea tree hub website.
Cr Cox said the council is committed to planting more than 60,000 new trees in four years.
“Our goal is to grow a greener city,” he said.
The competition is part of the council’s city forest strategy, which aims to grow local green cover by 20 per cent before 2040.
According to the council, in the last year it has planted more than 8,200 trees.
“I encourage everyone to get involved in the favourite tree competition. I hope you are inspired and see how much trees contribute to the character and health of the [municipality],” Cr Cox said.
Entries close on 28 February .
You can submit a photo of your favourite tree and a story about why you love it by visiting engage.whittlesea.vic.gov.au/trees.
