Cultivating a legacy of compassion in the Adelaide Hills
By Planet Ark 18 May 2026
For the past nine years, Mount Barker District Council and the Buddhist Compassion Relief Tzu Chi Foundation have teamed up to plant more than 11,000 native species in Adelaide Hills.
Over 400 volunteers have participated since the partnership began, supporting local diversity in the Laratinga Wetlands, Mount Barker Creek, Keith Stephenson Park, and ‘The Glebe’.
“Their commitment has become a cornerstone of Council’s revegetation program, breathing new life into important ecosystems and enriching the district’s natural beauty,” said Environmental Project Officer at Mount Barker District Council, Emma Montgomery.
This year, the team plans to plant an additional 1,000 native species around the Laratinga Wetlands. The planting of native plant species in the area so far has increased visiting birds. Migratory birds utilise the ‘safe islands’ dotted around the wetlands, and food forests attract Yellow Tail Black Cockatoos. By taking care of this environment, the team is ensuring that it remains available for generations to come.
“By working hand-in-hand to protect and restore habitat, they’re cultivating a legacy of compassion that benefits people, wildlife, and the planet,” Montgomery said.
The Buddhist Compassion Relief Tzu Chi Foundation continues their environmental work outside of National Tree Day as well. They promote eco-friendly lifestyle choices and support recycling initiatives. Through their work, they encourage others to make more sustainable choices.
This partnership illustrates how caring for the environment can create and strengthen community. Their yearly commitment has created not just a more beautiful environment but has laid the groundwork for a greener future as well.
If you would like to host your own planting site, visit our ‘Host a site’ page https://nationaltreeday.org.au/get-involved/host-a-site or our toolkits https://nationaltreeday.org.au/toolkit/
Written by Martha Kolpien
