Their aim was to help provide a range of environmental benefits for various customers, some of which where local farmers and still are to this day.
Fast forward almost 40 years, and now the Goulburn Valley Tree Group Nursery in Tatura is run by around 20 dedicated volunteers and has evolved into a knowledgeable hub that has produced more than 1,000,000 trees since its inception.
This group is more than just a nursery that sells an extensive range of native plants, they are a group of passionate people that are helping send a message that promotes biodiversity in the region.
“The more trees we get in the ground the better we are to the planet,” volunteer Deb Lynch said.
“And if you’re planting trees in the ground, you’re actually helping turn things around.”
The group provide a wide range of services that cover an extensive range of different planting techniques for farms and the backyard garden.
Whether it’s a wind block your property is needing with an under-story of plants that will create further barriers on your land, or you’re generally just unsure of how to make your home garden thrive, then this group is worth visiting.
“There are so many benefits to native gardens,” Deb said.
“They use less water and once established they practically look after themselves.
“Flowering plants all encourage birds, bees, insects, and butterflies which are all important for pollination and the overall health of ecosystems.
“If you’re not sure what to do or what to plant, need help or advice then please come and visit us.”
The nursery is a part of Landcare Victoria Inc and the Goulburn Murray Landcare Network and are located at 4-6 Kerford St, Tatura. They are open every Tuesday and Saturday morning, other than in August and a few weeks in September when they are closed.
They sell about 40,000 plants per annum, with some species including local eucalyptus and wattles as well as other native species that thrive in this area.
Everything is grown on site from seedlings and nurtured through different processes before sale. Deb said it was a labour-intensive process but so rewarding to see the plant growth.
“Some of the biggest trees like a red gum have some of the smallest seeds I have ever seen,” she said.
“It’s really so amazing to witness the transformation.
“From humble seeds to flourishing plants, a testament to the resilience and wonder of the natural world."
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