More than 1,100 locally grown native plants have been shared with schools across Townsville as part of this year’s Schools Tree Day celebrations, helping students learn about environmental stewardship while creating greener school communities.
Townsville City Council has provided 1,110 plants to 28 participating schools, with around 120 students attending a special presentation ceremony at Riverway today led by Deputy Mayor Suzy Batkovic.
Cr Batkovic said the program had been helping young people connect with nature for more than 25 years.
“Council has been running Schools Tree Day since 1999, and it continues to be one of our most successful environmental education initiatives,” Cr Batkovic said.
“Every year we see students roll up their sleeves, get their hands dirty and learn firsthand about the positive role they can play in looking after our environment.
“This year, participating schools were able to choose from 20 local native plant varieties, selecting the species best suited to their school grounds.
“By planting native species, students are helping create greener, more attractive school environments while also supporting local birds, bees and other wildlife.
“The lessons students learn through Schools Tree Day extend well beyond the classroom.
“The event teaches teamwork, responsibility and the importance of caring for our natural environment for future generations.”
Cr Batkovic said Council’s nursery played an important role in delivering the program and supporting environmental outcomes across the city.
“The plants distributed through Schools Tree Day were all grown at Council’s own nursery, making this a practical and cost-effective way to support local schools while also encouraging greater biodiversity across Townsville,” she said.
“These species are perfectly suited to our dry tropics climate, requiring less water once established and providing valuable habitats for native fauna.
“It’s fantastic to see so many schools taking part again this year and helping create a lasting environmental legacy within their communities.”
School’s participating in School Tree Day 2026 will receive up to 50 tubestock plants, along with gardening kits, organic mulch and information on tree planting and ongoing maintenance.
The Riverway ceremony also saw attending students receive certificates recognising their participation in the national initiative, while a special appearance by Ranger Dan from Hands On Wildlife helped reinforce the importance of native flora and fauna.
