UNSW staff planted native trees with Greenfleet at Lucas Heights, contributing to biodiversity, climate action and the restoration of endangered Sydney Turpentine Ironbark Forest.
On Wednesday 6 August, UNSW staff, Mylene Turban, EM Sustainability Manager , Hayley Blease, EM Communications and Engagement Coordinator and Pio Nicodemus, Sustainability and Student Engagement Coordinator (Arc) joined Greenfleet and other organisation volunteers at Lucas Heights Conservation Area to plant 1200 native trees, helping restore the endangered Sydney Turpentine Ironbark Forest.
Each year, UNSW participates in Greenfleet’s conservation projects as part of our commitment to offsetting scope 1 greenhouse gas emissions. These efforts involve planting protected native forests that capture carbon, improve soil and water quality, and restore critical habitat for wildlife.
At Lucas Heights, the team planted Sydney Green Wattle, Lady Grass and the endangered Turpentine tree, forming the endangered ecological community called Sydney Turpentine Ironbark Forest. This forest is legally protected and by extending the wildlife habitat it may help the local endangered koala populations.
The day was also a chance to connect with colleagues and other Greenfleet partners, work outdoors and contribute to something lasting.
“It was rewarding to get my hands dirty, spend time in nature and work alongside other Greenfleet volunteers. I loved the collaborative effort – everyone supporting each other, sharing trees and mulch and rising to the challenge of planting as many trees as possible,” said Hayley Blease. “Knowing we are contributing to biodiversity and climate action made it even more meaningful, and it felt uplifting to be part of something that will last into the future.”
This effort, delivered in partnership with Greenfleet, reflects UNSW’s commitment to environmental stewardship, climate action and social impact – showing how collective action can restore ecosystems that benefit both people and wildlife.
Photo top (left to right): Hayley Blease, Mylene Turban and Pio Nicodemus.
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