On Saturday Orange Netball Association hosted a $5 tree sale at the PCYC encouraging people to plant a tree this year.

It was followed on Sunday by the greening of the areas on the sides of the new footpath which runs between Spring Street and McLachlan Street, extending a wildlife corridor in the area.

Nick King of the Environmental Concerned Citizens of Orange group said it was gratifying yesterday to see so many people who live in nearby houses turn up to plant the trees .

“I feel this planting out is unique as people in this area have adopted a real sense of ownership,” he said.

“In the past when we have planted in particular areas, due to the dry conditions we have lost trees, but in this case people will be close by, look over their fence and I am sure put some extra water on if needed,” he said.

Councillor Ron Gander, who lives close to the new corridor of trees planted yesterday also said it was encouraging to see so many nearby residents take part.

On Sunday volunteers who turned up to plant the 1000 trees were provided with a free barbecue and beverages compliments of the Rotary Club of Orange North.

At the PCYC on Saturday 200 native trees were sold at $5 each after being donated by Orange Toyota with all proceeds to go to the Orange Netball Association.

Toyota representative Ron Palmer said  Orange Toyota management sees National Tree Day as an important initiative.

A number of environmental groups were also involved yesterday including ECCO, the Orange Field Naturalists, and the Daroo Urban Landcare Group.