21 August 2024 · Community News
Downtown Toyota Joins Forces with Villanova College for National Tree Day 2024
At Downtown Toyota, we believe in the power of community and the importance of environmental stewardship. That's why we were thrilled to partner with Villanova College for this year's National Tree Day, contributing to a greener future for our local area.
On August 4th, our team headed down to Villa Park to assist Villanova College's Green Team in an exciting environmental initiative. Together, we planted a variety of bee-friendly shrubs and trees that will support the local ecosystem and enhance the college's apiary. This collaboration has enabled the school to double the number of hives, a significant step forward in their efforts to nurture the local bee population.
Among the plants we introduced were the vibrant Grevillea ‘Billy Bonkers’, the nectar-rich Geraldton Wax, and the fragrant Lavender—all chosen for their ability to attract and support pollinators. These additions will provide a safe and nurturing environment for the expanding bee colony, ensuring that the bees have a steady supply of nectar and a healthy habitat.
Creating a Sustainable Future
The significance of this project goes beyond just planting trees. As Alisa Cleary, Acting Director of Service Learning at Villanova College, shared, "It has been the dream of the student-led Green Ministry Team to expand the Villanova College bee colony to the Villa Playing Fields at Tingalpa. Our partnership with Downtown Toyota means this dream is now within reach."
Nicole Hamilton, our Human Resources Manager who has shepherded countless staff volunteering initiatives, including our recent involvement at the Anzac Day Parade in Hawthorne earlier this year, highlighted the deeper impact of the event:
Our partnership with Villanova College for National Tree Day is a shining example of how community and corporate responsibility can come together to make a real difference. It’s not just about planting trees; it’s about fostering a sense of belonging and stewardship in our local environment. Seeing our team and the students work side by side was truly inspiring, and it reinforces our commitment to creating a sustainable future.
- Nicole Hamilton, Human Resources Manager, Downtown Toyota
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This collaboration exemplifies our shared commitment to environmental sustainability and community engagement. The enthusiasm was particularly evident among the students involved: Andy Masson (Year 12 College Beekeeper), Patrick Hilyard (Year 12 Green Ministry Captain), and Diego Wieczorek (Year 12 Student Council President). Their leadership, alongside the support of Year 8 helpers, ensured the day's success.
A Growing Tradition
National Tree Day, organized by Planet Ark in partnership with Toyota, has grown into Australia's largest community tree-planting event since its inception in 1996. This year marks the 25th year of Toyota's support for the initiative, and we at Downtown Toyota are proud to continue this tradition.
We also had the pleasure of working alongside the College Chaplain, Father Saldie Resolado, who helped coordinate the day’s activities, ensuring everything ran smoothly. The successful move of the apiary to Villa Park is a testament to what can be achieved when the community comes together with a shared vision for a sustainable future.
Thank you for Your Support
We extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who participated, from the Villanova College staff and students to the volunteers who gave their time and energy. Your efforts are helping to create a greener, more sustainable future, one tree at a time.
To capture the essence of this meaningful day, we’ve put together an album of photos showcasing the event. From planting trees to moving the apiary, these images highlight the hard work and dedication of everyone involved.
