Sunday 27th July 2025: Novocastrians Invited to Name and Nurture Wallsend Wetland on National Tree Day

newy.com.au – A wetland restoration event in Wallsend will take place this Sunday, offering Novocastrians the opportunity to plant native vegetation, learn about urban ecosystems and suggest a name for a currently unnamed wetland near Federal Park playground.

The community planting day, organised by City of Newcastle as part of National Tree Day, will involve the installation of more than 7,000 native grasses, shrubs and trees. The event follows a school-based activity held today, where over 100 students from Plattsburg and Wallsend Public Schools joined local Councillors to plant 2,000 native plants and learn about the area’s wildlife, including the endangered Black-necked Stork.

City of Newcastle’s Executive Manager Environment and Sustainability, Marnie Kikken, said the events are part of the broader Newcastle Environment Strategy.

“Young students are the environmental custodians of the future so we need to ensure they feel connected to their local ecosystems,” Ms Kikken said.

“As part of the Newcastle Environment Strategy we aim to deliver targeted community engagement to strengthen the connection between residents and our natural world, while also expanding our urban forest.

“Participants in Sunday’s National Tree Day celebration will not only restore a degraded section of land, they can also learn about pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and birds, and their vital role in the local ecosystem.”

Sunday’s activities will also launch a community naming project for the site, which is currently listed as 1C Minmi Road. Locals will be invited to suggest names for the wetland, with a selection panel comprising community members, Traditional Custodians and local businesses to choose the final name.

“We’re hoping this process will encourage the community to connect with the area, facilitate the sharing of stories, and celebrate and acknowledge Aboriginal language and history,” Ms Kikken said.

The event will feature a range of family-friendly activities including waterbug surveys, nature-based play, arts and crafts, and guided wetland tours conducted by City of Newcastle staff. Entertainment will include face painting, live music by local artists, and a free barbecue supported by the Newcastle Men’s Shed, along with a coffee van on site.

The site is wheelchair accessible and open to all ages and abilities. Volunteers are encouraged to bring a water bottle and wear sun-safe clothing. Planting tools and equipment will be provided. Further details are available via the City of Newcastle Facebook page.