National Tree Day 2025

Held on the Last Friday or Sunday in July

This month there have been a few environmental national days. Last week was National Tree Day, which is held on the last Friday or Sunday in July every year.

National Tree Day

https://nationaltreeday.org.au/

Planet Ark's National Tree Day started in 1996 and has grown into Australia's largest community tree planting and nature care event. It's a call to action for all Australians to get their hands dirty and give back to the community. While every day can be Tree Day, we dedicate the celebration of Schools Tree Day and National Tree Day on the last Friday and Sunday in July. Schools Tree Day is Friday 25 July and National Tree Day is Sunday 27 July. Tropical Tree Day is Sunday 7 December.

Norfolk Pine Tree

Here on Norfolk Island, we are surrounded with wonderful trees, and the most famous tree is the Norfolk Pine Tree, Araucaria heterophylla, and is endemic to Norfolk Island. The Norfolk Pine Tree is not a true pine, which belong to the genus Pinus in the family Pinaceae, but instead is a member of the genus Araucaria in the family Araucariaceae, which also contains the hoop pine and the monkey-puzzle tree.

The trees grow up straight and tall, reaching about 60 metres tall, and they grow quickly over the first 50 years. The young trees look like Christmas Trees, and the older trees branches appear to have droop down. The branches are straight and white tern seabirds, often lay their eggs and raise them on these branches, without a nest.

There are beautiful pines at Kingston, a large tree near Government House and the favourite of many is Lone Pine at the end of Emily Bay. There are commemorative trees, planted to remember fallen soldiers and others to celebrate the 100th birthday of Norfolk Islanders. Last year 100 Norfolk Pine Trees were planted for Ralph Westlake 100th birthday near Half Century and Headstone.

The Norfolk Island Flag has the Norfolk Pine Tree, and it is always lovely to see the flag up the flag poles. I have proudly watched the flag raised for Gold Medals at International Lawn Bowls competitions. The Norfolk Pine Trees are now grown in many coastal towns and beaches around the world. It is always lovely to see Norfolk Pine Trees when travelling.

Before WWII the Avenue of Pines grew in the area of the Airport, planted during the convict era. To make way for the Airport, the Avenue of Pines were removed, and the Norfolk Island Airstrip was constructed. I have read that there were 375 Norfolk Pine Trees, the avenue was about one mile long and the trees about 30 metres high. The majestic Pine Avenue ran from near the airport to near where St Barnabas Church is today. A few of the original Pines are still growing along the road near St Barnabas Chapel.

Another famous tree used by the Norfolk Islanders was the Tree of Knowledge. Locals would leave news and notices on the tree, a great way for the community to keep in touch.

The Norfolk Pine Trees are the most common native tree here on Norfolk Island. They are planted near Emily Bay, and this is a favourite camping area for locals over the summer holidays. The picnic areas also have the pine trees giving shade on hot summers days, and they always look great in sunset photos.

In 1774, Captain James Cook, on his second voyage to the South Pacific in HMS Resolution, sighted Norfolk Island. Cook noted the presence of large forests of tall, straight trees that appeared to be suitable for use as masts and yards for sailing ships. The British settled Norfolk Island in 1788, as a convict settlement and found that the Norfolk pine trees, were not as strong as they first thought, and not suitable for ship building, but was used for building dwellings and furniture.

Here is some additional information describing the Norfolk Pine Trees.

Araucaria heterophylla - Wikipedia

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Araucaria_heterophylla

The tree is slow growing and can reach a height of 50–65 m (160–210 ft), with straight vertical trunks and symmetrical branches, even in the face of incessant onshore winds that can contort most other species. From the straight trunk, it emits five almost horizontal or slightly oblique branches, forming floors; the plane of each floor is a perfect pentagon. If kept indoors, the tree remains smaller. The grey-brown bark falls off in fine scales. The branchlets are four to seven in regular whorls.

The young leaves are soft and awl-shaped, 1–1.5 cm (0.4–0.6 in) long, about 1 mm (0.04 in) thick at the base on young trees, and incurved, 5–10 mm (0.2–0.4 in) long and variably 2–4 mm (0.1–0.2 in) broad on older trees. The thickest, scale-like leaves on coning branches are in the upper crown. The cones are squat globose, 10–12 cm (4–5 in) long and 12–14 cm (5–6 in) diameter and take about 18 months to mature. They disintegrate at maturity to release the nut-like edible seeds. The seeds have a length of 2.5 to 3 cm (1.0 to 1.2 in) and a diameter of about 1.2 cm (0.5 in) with wide wings. There are four cotyledons present. It is a dioecious tree (male and female flowers in different plants), although it can also be monoecious.

The scientific name heterophylla ('different leaves') derives from the variation in the leaves between young and adult plants.

Norfolk Tree Fern

Another of my favourite trees is the Norfolk Tree Fern, Sphaeropteris excelsa, synonym Cyathea brownii. Here on Norfolk Island, they grow up to 20 metres, the tallest in the Southern Hemisphere and possibly in the world. There is many magnificent Tree Ferns in the Norfolk Island National Park, and our subtropical rainforests have breathtaking fern canopies along a path ways. There is a beautiful tree at our house and about 4 or 5 years ago, the Tree Fern started to grow quickly, it took off and is now almost the height of the house. Ferny Lane was known to have the Tree Fern along the roadways.

Sphaeropteris excelsa - Wikipedia

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sphaeropteris_excelsa

Sphaeropteris excelsa, synonym Cyathea brownii, commonly known as the Norfolk tree fern or smooth tree fern, is probably the largest fern species in the world. It is endemic to Norfolk Island, in the Pacific Ocean near Australia and New Zealand. It is named after the botanist Robert Brown (1773-1858).

In its natural habitat, Sphaeropteris excelsa is reported to reach 20 metres (66 ft) or more in height. The broad, lance shaped, bipinnate-pinnatifid to tripinnate fronds can reach 5 metres (16 ft)) in length. Stipe is long and has a line of white, stitch like dashes along its length. Rachis and stipe are covered in white-brown and darker orange-brown scales. The trunk can become smooth with age and may display oval scars left from fallen fronds. This species and the related Sphaeropteris medullaris are the fastest growing tree ferns at up to 50 cm (20 in) per year.

I hope the readers also enjoy trees, I am sure we all have our favourite trees. Living here on Norfolk Island, I get to enjoy so many lovely trees. I have included a few photos of Norfolk Pine Trees and the Norfolk Tree Fern.

This National Tree Day,

dig a hole,

plant a tree,

and plant your legacy in the landscape.

Betty Matthews

1 August 2025

Additional reading – National Tree Day

If you would like extra ideas and activities for National Tree Day or just to enjoy trees any day, here is some additional information about National Tree Day and activities you may enjoy.

https://www.daysoftheyear.com/days/national-tree-day/

National Tree Day (July 27th, 2025) | Days Of The Year

National Tree Day is a vibrant celebration dedicated to the importance of trees in our lives. It’s a day when people come together to appreciate the beauty and benefits of trees.

This event encourages everyone to plant trees and enjoy the outdoors. Whether you’re in a city park or your own backyard, planting a tree connects us to nature and each other.

How to Celebrate National Tree Day

Plant a Tree

Get your hands dirty and plant a tree in your backyard or local park. Grab a sapling, some friends, and enjoy the fresh air while contributing to a greener planet. It’s a fantastic way to bond with nature and each other.

Host a Tree Party

Invite neighbours and friends for a tree-themed gathering. Provide snacks and drinks and share facts about the importance of trees. Everyone can pitch in to plant a few trees or shrubs together. It’s fun and educational.

DIY Birdhouse

Craft a birdhouse using recycled materials. Hang it on a newly planted tree to provide a cozy home for local birds. This activity is perfect for kids and adults alike and helps support local wildlife.

Nature Walk and Talk

Organize a guided nature walk in your local area. Discuss the different types of trees, their benefits, and how to identify them. It’s a wonderful way to learn and appreciate the greenery around you.

Garden Upgrade

Enhance your garden with native plants and trees. Native species support local ecosystems and require less water and maintenance. By doing so, you’ll boost your garden’s beauty and ecological value.

Art in the Park

Create tree-inspired art. Use leaves, twigs, and other natural materials to make beautiful collages or sculptures. Display your masterpieces in a community space to inspire others to appreciate nature’s artistry.

Tree Trivia Night

Host a tree-themed trivia night. Test your friends’ knowledge about trees and their role in the environment. Offer eco-friendly prizes and have a great time learning together.

Support a Seedling Bank

Donate to a seedling bank. Your contribution helps provide trees for schools and community groups. It’s a simple way to ensure more trees are planted, even if you can’t do it yourself.

Why Is National Tree Day Celebrated?

Trees are celebrated for many reasons. They help fight climate change by absorbing carbon dioxide, providing homes for wildlife, and offering shade that cools our streets.

Trees also improve air quality, reduce soil erosion, and can even boost our mental health. By planting and caring for trees, we contribute to a healthier, more sustainable environment.

National Tree Day is about more than planting trees; it’s about fostering a sense of community and responsibility toward our planet.

Participating in this event can inspire lifelong habits of environmental stewardship. It’s a reminder that small actions, like planting a tree, can have a big impact on our world.

History of National Tree Day

National Tree Day started in 1996, initiated by the environmental organization Planet Ark. This event quickly became Australia’s largest community tree-planting and nature care activity.

Each year, it brings together around 300,000 volunteers who participate in environmental activities, educating people about the significance of trees and nature.

The event was established to encourage Australians to contribute to their community by planting trees and shrubs. It provides a hands-on opportunity to improve local environments, fostering a sense of community and environmental stewardship.

Schools also play a significant role, with many participating in related activities to teach students about the importance of trees​.

National Tree Day has had a substantial impact since its inception. Volunteers have planted millions of trees across Australia, helping to restore landscapes and enhance biodiversity.

This event underscores the importance of trees in combating climate change, improving air quality, and providing habitats for wildlife​.

National Tree Day 2025 - National Landcare Network

https://nln.org.au/blog/get-involved-this-national-tree-day-grow-a-greener-future-with-landcare/

Get Involved This National Tree Day — Grow a Greener Future with Landcare!
Australia’s National Tree Day is more than just planting seedlings — it’s a celebration of the people who nurture our environment all year round. Across the country, thousands of Landcare volunteers and community groups dedicate their time to restoring habitats, improving biodiversity, and caring for local landscapes. And you can be part of that movement.

Connect with Your Local Landcare Group
Every town, coast, and bushland has its own environmental story—and Landcare groups are its storytellers. These grassroots heroes coordinate tree planting days, weed removal events, habitat restoration projects, bushfire recovery efforts, and educational workshops. Whether you’re a seasoned conservationist or a curious beginner, there’s a place for you to learn, lend a hand, and leave a lasting impact.

Why Trees Matter
Tree planting isn’t just symbolic—it’s science-backed restoration.

• Trees protect soil from erosion

• Provide food and shelter for native wildlife

• Absorb carbon dioxide and clean the air

• Cool our communities and reduce heatwaves

• Connect fragmented ecosystems and rebuild corridors for biodiversity

Big Impact, Local Action
From planting hundreds of native species in regional NSW to supporting koala habitats in Queensland, Landcare volunteers help safeguard Australia’s unique environment. These projects don’t just benefit wildlife—they also foster connection among neighbours, schools, farmers, and First Nations communities.

When is National Tree Day?
While every day can be Tree Day, celebration of Schools Tree Day and National Tree Day are dedicated to the last Friday and last Sunday in July.
Schools Tree Day Friday 25th July 2025
National Tree Day Sunday 27th July 2025
Tropical Tree Day Sunday 7th December 2025

How You Can Join In

• Attend a National Tree Day event in your area

• Volunteer regularly with your local Landcare group

• Start a planting project at your school or workplace

• Donate to support tree planting and conservation efforts

• Share your Landcare story on social media to inspire others

Find your local Landcare group, get involved, and explore more ways to support trees and biodiversity here:

National Landcare Network – Get Involved.

Find more resources to get involved in National Tree Day with everything from at home planting guides to event posters and kids activity sheets here:

Coordinators Toolkit – National Tree Day

This National Tree Day,

dig a hole,

plant a tree,

and plant your legacy in the landscape.