Transforming Barren Land into a Green Oasis
By Hayley Webb 25 July 2024
In the heart of Ayr, Queensland, several planting sites have been regenerated thanks to the unwavering commitment of Don West Toyota. This year marks the 25th anniversary of their involvement as a cornerstone in supporting National Tree Day. Don West Toyota is the longest-serving dealership across Australia to support National Tree Day!
Planting events have been a resounding success over the years and Don West Toyota has played a pivotal role in its local impact.
In the early days of National Tree Day, the first trees were planted at the old Ayr Racecourse. This site, once devoid of greenery, has transformed into a thriving forest, showcasing the dealership's long-term commitment to their local environment. Darren West, second-generation at the dealership with nearly 45 years of service, reminisces about the early days. "I remember thinking this green initiative might just be a passing fad, but here we are, 25 years later, and it's become a core part of our community efforts."
The Regeneration of the Ayr Racecourse
The transformation of the Ayr Racecourse is a testament to what can be achieved when a community comes together. Over the years, the dealership has coordinated with the Burdekin Shire Council and local Landcare groups to identify planting sites and organise volunteers. From digging holes to planting saplings, every step has been a collective effort involving staff members, their families, and residents. Darren fondly recalls the first planting site at the old Ayr Racecourse. "Originally, it was a racecourse with no trees. Now, it's just full of gum trees. We've planted a hell of a lot of trees there over the years," he shares.
Today, the old Ayr Racecourse stands as a lush, green oasis, thanks to the thousands of trees planted by Don West Toyota and their volunteers. The once-barren site is now filled with eucalyptus, bottlebrush, and various other native species, providing a backdrop for wedding photos and a serene escape for locals. "It's hard to believe that you can't see through the track anymore. It's completely filled with trees, a stark contrast to its racing days," says Darren West proudly.
Continuing the legacy
As Don West Toyota celebrates this 25-year milestone, the dealership remains committed to its support for National Tree Day. "Community involvement in a rural area is paramount, and as long as we want to and feel the need, we'll keep going," says Darren.
The dealership, alongside the Burdekin Shire Council and Landcare, will once again come together to plant new saplings, ensuring that the legacy of Don West Toyota and their commitment to the environment continues to grow.
As National Tree Day approaches, Don West Toyota invites everyone to join in on Sunday, 28 July 2024, 8:30am to 11:30am at Corner of International Drive and Cox Street, Ayr, QLD. Register for the event here.
After 6 years leading and developing marketing teams Hayley’s learning journey into sustainability and climate change education began and she was hooked! Being in boardrooms where sustainability wasn’t on the agenda built her passion for making sustainable business accessible for all with education that simplifys the science. When she’s not at Planet Ark Hayley is delivering Carbon Literacy Training, making Instagram reels, sourcing preloved outfits and hanging out in nature with her young family.
