More than 3,000 trees have now been planted at Gurdwara Sri Guru Nanak Darbar in Officer, as volunteers from across Melbourne’s diverse communities joined the Sikh community in marking World Environment Day on June 6 and continuing the gurdwara’s long-running environmental efforts.
“So far we have planted about 3,050 trees at our Green Gurdwara,” said Dr Harpreet Kandra, community leader at the Officer Gurdwara and a senior lecturer at Federation University.
The event, now in its ninth year, brought together representatives from government agencies, community organisations, environmental groups, faith communities and local residents for discussions on sustainability, environmental stewardship and practical ways to reduce the cost of living through sustainable choices.
This year’s theme struck a chord with many families: how making sustainable choices can help reduce household expenses.
A highlight of the day was the planting of a decorative green fence around the gurdwara grounds, symbolising the community’s ongoing commitment to caring for the environment and enhancing the site, which sits within Melbourne’s Green Wedge Zone.
Dr Kandra said the environmental initiative had grown steadily over the years and that the community was already seeing the results of its long-term efforts.
Belinda Wilson, Labor MP for Narre Warren North, described it as “a wonderful afternoon” celebrating World Environment Day with the community.
Cardinia Shire Councillor Samantha-Jane Potter said the gurdwara had become a leading example of environmental action and community service in the region. She also spoke about the area’s unique environmental responsibility.
“The Green Gurdwara continues to lead the way through its environmental initiatives, sustainability programs and community tree-planting efforts,” she said.
Speaking at the event, Cr Potter highlighted the area’s connection to the internationally recognised Western Port Biosphere Reserve and Ramsar-listed wetlands, noting that local environmental actions can have impacts far beyond the immediate community.
She also praised the gurdwara’s broader contribution, noting that it provides free meals and support to around 2,000 people every week while bringing together people from diverse backgrounds through faith, service and generosity.
Sylvia Coombe from the Victorian Multicultural Commission said the event reflected the Sikh principle of seva, or selfless service.
“From the conversations and food to the hands-on activities and tree planting, the day reflected true seva — service in action. It is always a delight to be part of events that bring our communities together for a shared purpose,” she said.
The event’s theme, “Inspired by Nature. For Climate. For Our Future”, resonated throughout the day as families, community leaders and volunteers joined in tree planting and environmental activities.
Thanking volunteers, guests, partner organisations and community members, Dr Kandra said: “Small actions lead to big impact. A greener future starts with all of us.”
As the Green Gurdwara initiative continues to grow, organisers hope it will inspire more community-led efforts that combine environmental responsibility with community wellbeing.
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