Greater Western Water (GWW) has announced the opening of its 2026 Trees for Schools program, inviting primary and secondary schools within its service area to participate. The initiative aims to promote environmental awareness among students by providing tube stock trees, along with necessary planting materials such as stakes and guards, as well as educational resources.
Kessia Thomson, GWW’s general manager of strategy and partnerships, emphasized the importance of tree planting in the face of climate change. “Tree planting is more important than ever as we experience the effects of climate change,” she stated. She highlighted the essential role trees play in the ecosystem, particularly in the water cycle and soil health.
This program not only seeks to enhance the local environment but also serves as a practical learning opportunity for students. Thomson added, “This program is an excellent educational opportunity for students to learn about the significant impact and benefit that trees have on our environment.” Schools will gain hands-on experience in planting and caring for trees, ensuring their survival and growth in the coming years.
Supporting a Sustainable Future
Participating schools will directly contribute to a greener and healthier region, offering shade and habitats for various wildlife, including birds and insects. This effort supports climate change adaptation and enhances the overall ecological landscape.
The Trees for Schools program, now entering its third year in partnership with the Department of Energy, Environment and Climate Action, has already provided over 6,000 trees to 141 schools across GWW’s western service area. This includes regions such as Melton, Moorabool, Brimbank, Hobsons Bay, Maribyrnong, Moonee Valley, Wyndham, and Yarra, as well as parts of Hume and Macedon Ranges.
The initiative is part of the state government’s More Trees for a Cooler Greener West program, which aims to promote tree planting across Melbourne’s western suburbs. Schools interested in joining the program can submit expressions of interest until April 2, 2026.
For more details, interested schools can visit GWW’s official page: gww.com.au/about/community/trees-schools. This initiative not only aims to foster environmental stewardship in students but also contributes significantly to the region’s climate resilience efforts.
