It will be a day off of a different kind this Friday for a group of corporate volunteers from Brisbane as they swap the office for the paddock at a the Treehenge project on the Darling Downs.
The first Treehenge site, at Gladfield outside of Warwick, was established in 2011 and is the flagship project of Toowoomba-based natural resource management group Condamine Alliance.
Already in the record books for the largest logo planted in trees, CEO Phil McCullough is excited to celebrate the latest milestone in the Treehenge project – its first corporate tree planting day with the help of world leading business, Deloitte.
“On its annual IMPACT Day, Deloitte encourages all of its professionals to set aside their work for the day to contribute their time and talent to benefit selected local non-profits,” Mr McCullough said.
“We’re proud to be a part of this global initiative and it’s great to see people taking the opportunity to get out in a regional area to make a difference to our environment.”
Mr McCullough guarantees it won’t be a regular day at the office. “Volunteers will be getting a chance to learn what it takes to run a project of this scale and getting their hands dirty planting trees will definitely be on the agenda,” he said.
“Although there’ll be some hard work, the day is an excellent opportunity to get out in the fresh country air and have some fun while doing something positive,” Mr McCullough said. “It will also be a good chance to see rural and regional areas in Queensland.
“It’s harvest time on the Downs, so they will get a chance to see lots of activity in the landscape and some of our local wildlife will be sure to make an appearance.”
In its previous life, the Treehenge property was a dairy farm and, by the time Condamine Alliance took over, the land was badly degraded and in need of some serious help.
“Our rehabilitation activities at Treehenge are helping to reduce erosion, improve air and water quality and ultimately encourage the return of native plants and animals to the region,” Mr McCullough said. “So far, over 40,000 trees have been planted on the 100 hectare site.
“By taking part in this experience, volunteers can get an appreciation of what it takes to restore a landscape – the planning, coordination and the years it takes to bring and area back from a degraded state.
“It is not only a rewarding experience for the participants, but also another step toward improving and protecting our environment.
“The group’s valuable contribution to our project will not stop at the Treehenge gate; we hope they will go on to share with their friends, families and colleagues the messages of Treehenge and the importance of environmental action.”
Mr McCullough plans for this is the first of many corporate planting days. “I would encourage other organisations to allow their staff to assist in an environmental cause like ours.
“Deloitte have shown the way for other corporations to participate and have an active role in their environment.”
For more information on Treehenge or to register your interest in holding a planting day for your organisation, visit the Treehenge website www.treehenge.com.au.
