Hi Landcarer’s

It is so fabulous to have our local newspapers back and printing!!! Our Editors and staff do such an amazing job delivering our local news!

We missed you Champion Post and Forbes Advocate!

Landcare had commenced preparations with Forbes and Parkes Shire Councils to hold National Tree Day events in Forbes and Parkes at the start of August in line with the recommendations at that stage from Planet Ark.

Planet Ark have distributed the following notification:

Due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic across Australian communities and the ongoing uncertainty around potential restrictions on gatherings, Planet Ark has made the difficult decision to cancel official National Tree Day planting events this year.

This is not an easy decision to make, but we feel it is the right decision in the interests of protecting our staff, our amazing volunteers and vulnerable community members from the spread of COVID-19.

COVID-19 has imposed significant constraints on the way public events can be run, including the requirement to comply with physical distancing rules. Planet Ark, together with our partners, have carefully considered the expert advice available from governments and health authorities in proceeding in this manner.

Planet Ark understands that the weekend of National Tree Day may still be acknowledged by communities and organisations, and we encourage individuals to plant in their own back yard or vegetable patches where possible.

We acknowledge the commitment and tireless work of the many State, Territory and regional committees, organisations, schools and individuals whose passion each year makes National Tree Day an outstanding success.

We thank you for your understanding and for working with us during these uncertain times.

The Planet Ark team are continuing to work with our partners and key stakeholders to make National Tree Day 2020 a suitable and fitting celebration of nature and community spirit.

We will announce other ways you can get involved in the coming weeks.

2021 – Traditionally National Tree Day is held in the last weekend in July, as this is the most appropriate day for the majority of regions. We will advise plans for 2021 later this year.

Keep an eye on our Central West Lachlan Landcare social media! We will still be celebrating National Tree Day…but a modified version. We will miss the annual catch-up, but wish to abide by the guidelines.

For further information on this article, please go to www.centralwestlachlanlandcare.org, twitter, facebook or Instagram @cwllandcare