A greener future for our neighbourhoods

Council's Mackay Natural Environment Centre has given away more than 19,700 plants to ratepayers, schools and community groups over the last year as part of the Free Native Plant Program.

And, with more than 100 volunteers already registered to take part in next Sunday’s National Tree Day in Mackay, there are obviously more than a few green thumbs in our region.

To help guide council’s approach towards future greening initiatives, an urban greening survey has also kicked off today and is now open for comment.

The survey is seeking feedback from the community on a planned approach towards enhancing and protecting greenery in our region’s urban areas, which would include planting more trees on local streets and in public spaces.

Mayor Greg Williamson said council believed that creating greener neighbourhoods was an important priority for the region but wanted to ensure this view aligned with those of residents.

“Trees and other vegetation play a significant role in the community and provide a number of economic, social and environmental benefits,” he said.

“Greener neighbourhoods are cooler in summer, more attractive places to walk and cycle, they deliver a daily dose of nature closest to where we live, work and play, and offer many other benefits when carefully planned and managed.

“Council has a vision to become the best region in Australia for liveability and livelihood and we believe a planned approach towards urban greening could play a key role in supporting this vision.

“We would love residents to let us know where they want to see more greenery planted, what type of vegetation they would like to see more of, as well as sharing any other thoughts and suggestions on this subject.”

View the Mackay region urban greening area map and share your feedback by visiting connectingmackay.com.au/urban-greening and filling out the survey by Wednesday, September 1.

Residents can also request a hard copy survey by contacting council’s Community Engagement team on 1300 MACKAY (622 529) or emailing engagement@mackay.qld.gov.au.