Planting seedlings in Toolangi State Forest
Image: Luke Simpkin
Source: Museum Victoria
Ever wondered what happens to those seedlings displayed in the Forest Gallery once they grow too big?
Twice a year, Live Exhibits horticulture staff take the seedlings on a ride to Toolangi as part of a program to rehabilitate a degraded forest area in Toolangi State Forest.
In October, students and teachers from Lilydale Primary School provided the labour to plant 1200 trees, shrubs, ferns and grasses, all originally raised from seed and cuttings sourced from Toolangi.
Department of Sustainability staff prepare the site in advance, provide equipment and water from a fire truck, and put on a BBQ lunch and outdoor nature activities to thank students for their work. A sign will mark the spot for students to revisit their trees in years to come.
This three-way partnership is now seven years old, and looks set to continue with enthusiastic support from all concerned.