The South East community united in Officer to celebrate World Environment Day by planting a new generation of trees at the Officer Sikh Temple, Gurdwara Siri Guru Nanak Darbar.
Over the years, the Gurdwara has planted thousands of trees on its grounds, promoting sustainability and conservation within the community.
Leading the event last weekend was Professor Harpreet Kandra, who was appointed ambassador for Sustainability Victoria’s #SmallActsBigImpacts campaign last year.
The annual planting day continues to grow larger each year, attracting a host of public leaders. This year’s event included Pakenham MP Emma Vulin, Narre Warren South MP Gary Maas, Narre Warren North MP Belinda Wilson, Cardinia Shire Mayor Jack Kowarzik, Parliamentary Secretary for Climate Action MP Sheena Watt, Minister for Climate Action Lily D’Ambrosio, and Greater Dandenong Mayor Lana Formoso.
The day began with an eye-opening presentation by Kandra on the pressing environmental challenges and opportunities we face. This was followed by insightful discussions led by Minister D’Ambrosio and Sheena Watt, Parliamentary Secretary for Climate Action, focusing on how to turn these challenges into opportunities.
The event was also attended by prominent community members dedicated to conservation, such as local Alan Cole OAM.
With over 100 enthusiastic attendees from various community groups, friends, and fellow volunteers of the Gurdwara, everyone rolled up their sleeves and planted more than 600 trees on the Gurdwara’s estate.
“It was a powerful moment of community action! We concluded the day with a delicious community vegetarian meal (langar), sharing food and good vibes,” said Kandra.
He also thanked the incredible volunteers (sevadars) who made the event a success.
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