REVITALISING AND REGROWING AS PART OF MAJOR ROAD UPGRADES

Primary school students and their families will join forces with the Rotary Club of Eltham to revitalise the Fitzsimons Lane area and other nearby parks, with 5,000 extra trees to be planted thanks to funding from the Andrews Labor Government.

Member for Eltham Vicki Ward said the partnership would not only add more greenery to the area, but help local children learn about the importance of the environment by giving them a hands-on stake in its future.

The 5,000 trees to be planted are in addition to the local indigenous trees and vegetation Major Road Projects Victoria will plant as part of the Fitzsimons Lane Upgrade.

It means that approximately six new trees will be planted for every tree removed as part of the project.

Secondary school students will also be involved, with a propagating project to create a new supply of native plants and trees which will be planted and grown in the local area.

Rotary Club of Eltham President Frank Lynch said a goal of his was to plant 1,000 trees this year and that he’s delighted the figure is now 5,000.

The Fitzsimons Lane Upgrade will improve four intersections along Fitzsimons Lane, which is a major thoroughfare connecting Melbourne’s northern suburbs with the city and eastern suburbs and is used by more than 60,000 vehicles every day.

The new intersections will feature safe crossing points and upgraded walking and cycling paths to provide easier and safer connections between businesses, schools and homes. 

The upgrade will also provide a significant improvement to the performance of the road during peak times.

To stay up to date with the latest information on the Fitzsimons Lane Upgrade visit to roadprojects.vic.gov.au.

Quotes attributable to Member for Eltham Vicki Ward

“We’re pleased to be working with Rotary to help teach children the importance of caring for the environment, by planting an extra 5,000 trees in the area.”

“This program will leave an important legacy that all participants and the wider community will enjoy for years to come.”

Quotes attributable to Rotary Club of Eltham President Frank Lynch

"We know that having lovely trees in the area is part of what makes Eltham so special, so it’s fantastic that we’ve been able to work with the people involved in this project to help teach the next generation of nature enthusiasts.”

“We’re proud to be working with these young kids to support and nurture our unique environment.”