Dapto residents to turn a new leaf

Did you know that Dapto has some of the lowest tree canopy of any suburb in the city of Wollongong?

To grow our urban forests, we’re calling for residents living in Dapto and surrounding suburbs to help us increase the shade and greenery in their area, by caring for a tree provided free of charge by Council.

As part of our Urban Greening Strategy, we’ll be planting a minimum of 250 new trees across Dapto parklands, around playgrounds and on the verges of participating homes.

Wollongong City Lord Mayor Councillor Gordon Bradbery AM said that this was a free initiative and encouraged residents of Dapto and surrounding suburbs to take part.

“Shade is a simple but effective way we can transform our communities into liveable and enjoyable places. Increasing the tree canopy in our suburbs not only adds natural beauty to our streets but helps us lessen the effects of climate change.”

Council crews and residents will begin planting street trees from Autumn next year, the best time for young trees to grow and thrive.

This year, we wrapped up a highly successful urban greening campaign in Port Kembla. Between 2019 and 2020, Port Kembla residents worked with Council staff to plant more than 280 new street trees across their suburb.

“The Port Kembla urban greening project was successful thanks to the good work of our local resident champions who promoted the opportunity to friends, family members and neighbours,” said Cr Bradbery.

“We’re calling for Dapto residents to do the same thing and to get involved by nominating key locations that need shade. The best way you can support this project is by having a conversation with your neighbours and friends, share ideas and encourage others to join in.”

There are a range of local, native and exotic trees available for residents to choose from. Residents are also able to share their preference of tree species to be planted on their street.

“We know that height can be a concern when planting a tree. That’s why our arborists have selected a mix of suitable tree species that grow to different height levels. Our larger trees will be reserved for local parks and reserves where shade is most needed,” said Cr Bradbery.

Flyers will be distributed to households to notify and invite residents to identify possible street tree locations near them. Residents can join the program up until February 2021.

Submit a request to plant a tree by visiting the Our Wollongong website, emailing publictrees@wollongong.nsw.gov.au or calling Customer Service on (02) 4227 7111.