Environmental community engagement officer William Josh explained that tree planting days are less about needing people to actually plant saplings than getting them involved in their local environment.

"It's not all about work. It's all about community engagement and getting the local people around the area to sort of take ownership of something," he said.

On Sunday from 10am, locals will have the opportunity to see how the work done by Mr Josh and his volunteers has transformed the waterway at Nelson Park, when around six years ago, it had been completely choked by introduced species.

"It was just a willow-and-shopping-trolley-infested muddy swamp," he said.

After Orange City Council ripped up the huge willows, the trees were replaced by native species and now the water could flow much more freely.

The area still needed more local riparian species (trees, plants and shrubs which grow on the water's edge) though to provide shade for fish and other wildlife, to restore the habitat damaged by the non-native willows.

On Sunday, some of these native trees and shrubs volunteers would plant along Rifle Range Creek would include river red gums, ribbon gums (also known as white gums), river she-oaks and native river tussocks.

Once they had reached maturity, the species would provide vital shade, habitat and biodiversity to a once willow-infested waterway.

Participants are instructed to meet on the walkway near the bridge at Nelson Park for a 10am start. The Park is bounded by Gardiner Road, Hill Street and Taronga Avenue, with parking and access to it on Gardiner and Hill.

Volunteers are advised to wear suitable outdoor clothing, covered shoes and a hat. COVID protocols will also be in place. A free lunch will be provided.

For more information about Sunday or other upcoming tree planting days, call William Josh on 0407 256 791.

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