Rural landowners across Campaspe Shire can now access discounted native plants through Council’s popular Rural Tree Scheme, with orders for the 2026/27 program officially open.
The scheme supports rural ratepayers to establish native vegetation on their properties, helping to improve biodiversity, provide habitat for native wildlife, enhance landscape values, and contribute to healthier waterways and farming environments.
Campaspe Shire Mayor Cr Daniel Mackrell encouraged eligible landowners to take advantage of the program.
“The Rural Tree Scheme is a practical and affordable way for landowners to introduce indigenous plants to their properties while contributing to the long-term health of our local environment,” Cr Mackrell said.
“Whether you’re creating windbreaks, improving habitat for native animals or restoring areas of your property, this scheme provides an opportunity to make a lasting environmental impact at a reduced cost.”
Seedlings cost $1.30 each, and the scheme is available to Campaspe Shire ratepayers who own property in the Farm Zone, Rural Living Zone or Rural Conservation Zone.
Eligible landowners can purchase up to:
- 50 seedlings per rate notice for properties less than five hectares
- 160 seedlings per rate notice for properties of five hectares and larger.
The program is capped at a maximum of three rate notices per property owner.
To participate, landowners must commit to planting and maintaining all seedlings purchased through the scheme. Council staff may conduct site visits to ensure plants are being established and cared for appropriately.
Applications and species order forms can be downloaded from Council’s website or collected from any Campaspe Shire customer service centre.
Before selecting plant species, applicants are encouraged to contact the participating nursery, McKindlay’s Riverine Nursery in Moama, to discuss species suitability and availability.
