Greater Shepparton celebrates 10 years of One Tree Per Child

Since becoming the first council in Australia to adopt the initiative in 2016, Greater Shepparton has planted almost 200,000 indigenous trees, shrubs, grasses and groundcovers through the program.

Founded by Olivia Newton-John and Jon Dee, One Tree Per Child was created with a simple goal: encouraging every child to plant at least one tree before leaving school.

What started in Greater Shepparton as a commitment to plant a native plant for every person aged under 18 each year has grown into one of the region’s most recognised environmental initiatives, connecting thousands of young people, schools, volunteers and community groups with nature.

Each year from May through to August, schools, kindergartens, community groups and volunteers take part in planting activities across Greater Shepparton as part of the One Tree Per Child program.

Over the past 10 years, the program has engaged with 57 schools, 19 kindergartens and childcare centres, 30 community groups and five disability services across Greater Shepparton.

More than 14,500 people have participated in local planting activities through the program, helping improve biodiversity, support wildlife habitat and create greener public spaces for future generations.

Mayor, Councillor Shane Sali, said the milestone reflected years of strong community support and environmental leadership.

“One Tree Per Child has become an important part of Greater Shepparton’s story over the past decade,” he said.

“This program has connected young people with the environment in a hands-on and meaningful way while helping create healthier and greener spaces across our region.

“To reach almost 200,000 plantings in 10 years is a fantastic achievement and highlights what can be achieved when schools, families, volunteers and community groups work together.”

One Tree Per Child co-founder Jon Dee said Greater Shepparton had become a leading example of the initiative internationally.

“One Tree Per Child was founded with a simple but powerful goal: to ensure every child plants at least one tree before leaving school,” he said.

“Greater Shepparton embraced that vision early and has grown it into one of the world’s leading One Tree Per Child communities.

“The program not only helps create habitat for wildlife and greener communities, it also gives many young people their first experience with volunteering and caring for the environment.”

The 10-year milestone will be recognised during Greater Shepparton’s annual community planting event on Sunday 26 July 2026 at Tassiker Reserve, Shepparton, as part of National Tree Day activities.

Community members can learn more or register their interest online.

Event details

Date: Sunday 26 July 2026
Time: 10am to 1pm
Location: Tassiker Reserve, 38–54 Kittles Road, Shepparton (parking available along Kittles Road between The Boulevard and Wheller Road)

Planting will begin following celebratory speeches and smoking ceremony, with a free BBQ lunch and activities from 12 noon.

Media are welcome to attend the event to capture photos.

For more information on National Tree Day in Greater Shepparton, please contact Council’s Environment Officer on 5832 9700 or email council@shepparton.vic.gov.au

To learn more about the One Tree Per Child program, visit Greater Shepparton National Tree Day webpage.