Dear Supporter,
First of all, we would like to thank you for your invaluable support over the last sixteen years in the greening of the Kororoit Creek. Your attendance and participation on planting days in the past has been greatly appreciated.
Friends of Lower Kororoit Creek (FOLKC) is pleased to announce that this year we are planning the most important celebration and planting that we have ever undertaken, in partnership with our major sponsors, Toyota Australia and the City of Hobsons Bay. This event will take place along the Kororoit Creek and will coincide with Planet Ark’s National Tree Day on 30 July 2017 commencing with the planting of 2300 trees and shrubs at the Altona North Urban Forest at 10am.
On behalf of FOLKC, I would like to extend an invitation to you, and your family and friends, to be present on this important day to help us celebrate this very special event, details of which are on the included poster.
At 12 noon, after the morning planting, you are invited to enjoy a free BBQ and the opening of the $2.5 million shared path and artwork trail, a legacy to the local community courtesy of Toyota Australia, City of Hobsons Bay and the State Government. To open the path, we are hoping to have the Premier of Victoria, Daniel Andrews MP. After the opening, bike riders, including members of several bicycle user group, will be invited to travel the shared trail along Toyota Way.
The book ‘Friends of Lower Kororoit Creek’ will also be launched on the day, a book that tells of the history of the Creek and of the efforts made by FOLKC to resurrect a badly polluted and derelict waterway.
Following the opening, we recommend a walk along Toyota Way and Artwork Trail to view the masterful artwork that has been produced by Geoffrey Ricardo and to see the result of community efforts in restoring the Kororoit Creek to its past glory.
Highlights of the Tree Day celebration will include:
· The planting of approximately 2300 indigenous trees and shrubs, the number representing the Toyota workers who are to lose their jobs when the manufacturing plant is closed;
· The opening of the shared trail and artwork at 12 noon;
· Displays by FOLKC, Hobsons Bay, Melbourne Water, Greening the West, Planet Ark, Port Philip & Westernport CMA, and many more industry and business organisations that have contributed to the development of the Kororoit Creek corridor;
· A display of the latest technology in Toyota electric cars;
· A look at the proposed Westgate Tunnel Project and its contribution to the future shared trail network and green spaces in Melbourne’s West;
· Edvardo and accordion, who will be on site to entertain and hand out lollies;
· Face painting activities for the children by FOLKC’s Linda;
· A free BBQ and spit prepared and sponsored by Cedar Meats Australia;
· Free hot food, catered by the Hobsons Bay SES and Altona Lions;
· Free brewed coffee and speciality teas, courtesy of Toyota;
· Other giveaways, courtesy of Toyota;
· Lollies, courtesy of Nestle; and
· An Open Plains Zoo display.
FOLKC is looking forward to seeing you at our Gala National Tree Day Celebration on 30 July 2017.
Bring your family and friends and colleagues and have a FUN day. If you were among the participants who attended last year and come to this year’s planting, you will be amazed by the changes in the environment along Kororoit Creek, thanks to your efforts.
If possible, please bring a hammer and trowel and wear suitable clothing.
Planting will commence at 10am with the meeting point and car parking in Blackshaws Road, near the corner of Grieve Parade, Altona North, opposite Croft Reserve. Mel Ref 40: H 12. It is anticipated that the event will conclude around 2pm.
Cheers
Geoff
President, FOLKC