- Published:
- Wednesday 25 October 2023
The Allan Labor Government has planted more than 14,000 trees at Werribee Open Range Zoo - creating a haven for locals, tourists, and wildlife.
Member for Point Cook Mathew Hilakari took part in a community tree planting day as part of the Labor Government’s More Trees for a Cooler, Greener West initiative – a program that is planting 500,000 trees in Melbourne’s west.
The new trees will complement the $88 million expansion of Werribee Open Range Zoo which includes a purpose-built elephant habitat to house an Asian elephant herd.
In 2018, Melbourne's west had just 5.5 per cent canopy cover in urban areas compared to 17.4 per cent in the inner south-east and 25.9 per cent in the east.
In response to this shortage of trees in the west, more than 320,000 trees have been planted across the west through this program.
The More Trees for a Cooler, Greener West initiative includes the planting of trees outside schools, along trails, in parks, and on residential streets across six local council areas – Hobsons Bay, Maribyrnong, Brimbank, Melton, Moonee Valley and Wyndham.
The new trees will also be irrigated as part of the Werribee Recycled Water Expansion scheme, which will provide the Zoo with a reliable supply of Class A recycled water and replaces the Zoo’s need for water extractions from the Werribee River.
For details about the project, visit environment.vic.gov.au/more-trees.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Environment Steve Dimopoulos
“We’re planting trees to create cooler, greener spaces for visitors and animals at Werribee Open Range Zoo to enjoy.”
“Together with our investment in parks, we’re boosting liveability, improving air quality, and tackling climate change.”
Quote attributable to Member for Point Cook Mathew Hilakari
“It’s been great to take part in the planting day at Werribee Open Range Zoo. I’m excited to see the West have greener and more open spaces for everyone to enjoy.”
Quote attributable to Zoos Victoria CEO Dr Jenny Gray
“Zoos Victoria is grateful for the investment in green spaces to not only support the animals and visitors at Werribee Open Range Zoo, but also to provide habitat for wildlife that chooses to visit or live within the grounds.”