City of Belmont Doubles Free Tree Initiative for Residents This Winter
The City of Belmont has significantly boosted its free tree initiative this winter, enabling eligible households to receive up to two trees as part of the 2026 Trees For Residents program. This expansion aims to foster a greener urban landscape by encouraging residents to plant trees on private property, thereby enhancing shade, cooling neighbourhoods, and supporting local wildlife habitats.
Strong Community Response Drives Program Growth
Following a successful run last winter, where over 200 trees were collected and planted by residents across the city, the initiative has been doubled to meet rising demand. This effort is integrated into the city's broader winter planting program, which plans to add 3,000 trees and more than 50,000 plants throughout Belmont.
Available tree species in the program include pin-cushion hakea, red-capped gum/ilyarrie, and banksia. However, the WA golden wattle is currently out of stock due to high interest.
Mayor Emphasises Partnership and Environmental Benefits
Belmont Mayor Robert Rossi highlighted that the increase reflects strong community enthusiasm for environmental improvement. "This is about partnership. It's council and residents working together to make a real difference in our neighbourhoods," he stated.
Rossi added, "In times when many households are feeling the pressure, initiatives like this are about giving something back in a practical way. Trees play a vital role in cooling our suburbs and making our neighbourhoods more comfortable places to live."
He further explained, "By increasing the number of free trees available over the next five years, we're making it easier for residents to be part of something positive, helping to shape a greener future for our community here in Belmont."
Program Details and Application Process
The Trees For Residents program aligns with the city's goal to create a cooler, greener, and more resilient urban environment. Applications are open until Monday, May 19, or until supplies are exhausted. Residents who apply successfully can collect their free trees on Saturday, May 30.
This initiative not only beautifies the area but also contributes to long-term sustainability efforts, making Belmont a more liveable and environmentally friendly city for all its inhabitants.
