National Tree Day: Growing for the Future at Bush School

Students at Encounter Lutheran College are helping grow a greener future, one seedling at a time, as part of celebrations for National Tree Day on Sunday, 26 July 2026. 

National Tree Day, founded by Planet Ark, is Australia's largest community tree-planting and nature care event, encouraging Australians to take practical action for the environment.

Students from Encounter Lutheran College's Bush School program, which caters for children in Early Learning, Foundation and Year 1, recently planted seedlings on Wurar Ruwi, the College’s Bush School site, to establish a natural windbreak while contributing to a healthier local environment.

The hands-on activity provided students with an opportunity to connect with nature and learn about the important role trees play in supporting ecosystems and creating sustainable communities.

As part of the project, students learnt that windbreaks are rows of trees or shrubs that help slow wind speeds, reduce soil erosion, protect habitats and create more comfortable outdoor learning environments.

As the seedlings mature, they will absorb carbon dioxide, improve air quality and support biodiversity. Importantly, the planting will also help establish a wildlife corridor, providing habitat and safe passage for local birds, insects and other small creatures.

Outdoor Learning Coordinator Marlies Nitschke said the project aligned perfectly with the goals of National Tree Day by giving children the opportunity to contribute positively to their environment.

"National Tree Day is a wonderful reminder that small actions can make a lasting difference," Mrs Nitschke said.

"By planting these seedlings, our students are not only learning about sustainability and caring for the environment, but they are also creating something that will benefit future generations. Over time, these trees will provide shelter for wildlife, strengthen biodiversity and help form a wildlife corridor for the many birds and small creatures that share our local landscape."

Head of Junior School Tori Weiss said the initiative reflected the College's commitment to authentic, hands-on learning experiences.

"When children are given opportunities to care for the natural world, they develop a deeper understanding of their role as environmental stewards," Mrs Weiss said.
"This project has allowed our youngest learners to make a meaningful contribution to the environment while seeing firsthand how their actions can have a positive and lasting impact."

National Tree Day has inspired millions of Australians to plant trees and support environmental restoration projects since its inception, helping to create healthier ecosystems and stronger connections with nature.

As the young seedlings take root, students will have the opportunity to watch them grow over the coming years. The College looks forward to seeing just how tall they become by the time today's young planters reach Year 12.