Riddells Creek the focus of Council’s annual street-tree planting

Published on 27 June 2022

Approximately 400 new trees will be planted on nature strips in Riddells Creek in the coming months as part of Council’s annual tree-planting program.

The 2022 street-tree planting program will run between June and September, the optimal time to give the trees the best chance of survival.

“The Macedon Ranges is renowned for its tree-lined streets and avenues which form an integral part of the shire’s appeal. We’re fortunate to have a variety of microclimates across the shire, with varying rainfall and temperature, which allow for a diverse range of trees to be grown,” said Colin Marshall, Acting Director Assets and Operations.

“The benefits of street trees include shade for pedestrians, increased property values, noise and pollution absorption, improved mental health and reduced rainfall runoff,” he said.

Residents of Riddells Creek in the areas where street-tree planting is to take place will be notified of works via a letter.

Street-tree planting has also previously taken place in Lancefield, Tylden, Malmsbury, Darraweit Guim, and New Gisborne. Council has a shire-wide strategy for planting, however by focusing planting locations each year cost efficiencies can be achieved.

“Trees are purchased from local nurseries and Council staff ensure the new plantings are well looked after, watering regularly during the warmer months for the first two years to ensure they mature into healthy and structurally sound trees. Most trees are then self-sufficient after two years,” said Mr Marshall.

The stakes used in the planting program were up-cycled from the trees felled by the June 2021 storm.

Council selects trees under our “Right tree, right place” guiding principle. That is, species are selected based on what is most suited to the location.

View a list of Council’s preferred tree species. See a list of trees that will be planted and their location.

Find information about Council’s upcycling of storm-felled trees into stakes.