Blog Article
Getting Gawler Greener
over 1 year ago
Getting Gawler Greener

The Getting Gawler Greener initiative seeks to increase tree canopy coverage and create conditions of continuous shade on walking and cycling routes.

Last year, the Town of Gawler was successful in securing $150,000 funding from the Department of Environment and Water’s ‘Greener Neighbourhoods Grants’ Program, supported by the Green Adelaide board. Together with $150,000 through the Department of Infrastructure and Transport as part of the funding for revegetation for the Gawler Rail Electrification Project.

The Getting Gawler Greener initiative seeks to increase tree canopy coverage and create conditions of continuous shade on walking and cycling routes leading to five Gawler rail stations, thus making sustainable transit options more appealing and comfortable to Gawler residents.

Adelaide Hills Lawns & Gardens (AHLG) won the tender to plant 300 new trees through various neighbourhoods in Gawler with work commencing April this year. The team have been working with council staff to revegetate areas affected by the Gawler Rail Electrification with the planting set to conclude in June.

A mix of tree species has been used to enhance biodiversity, link habitat corridors and diversify our street tree species. This ensures our canopy is more resistant to climate change and pests.

This project has direct alignment with the South Australian Government’s Climate Change Action Plan 2021-2025. Aligned to Goal 5 for creating Climate-smart built and urban environments, this project has the key objective to accelerate strategic urban greening.

“This project allows us to focus on outcomes in our Biodiversity Management Plan as well as our beautification plan, enhancing our local biodiversity and increase our resilience to climate change”, said Mayor Karen Redman.

CEO Henry Inat was excited by the project and said, “Through the ‘Getting Gawler Greener’ initiative, the  Council is taking significant steps towards a more sustainable future, improving the quality of life for  residents, and setting an example for other communities to follow.”

In addition to this project, the Town of Gawler has planted 364 street trees as part of the Council’s annual tree planting program as well as 487 street trees throughout new developments, and 2000 native trees are currently being planted and maintained along various locations within the river corridors, linear trails and natural reserves of the South Para, North Para and Gawler Rivers.

For further information on our Getting Gawler Greener initiative visit: gawler.sa.gov.au or contact council at 8522 9211.

*Photo provided by Adelaide Hills Lawns & Gardens (AHLG)