I’m pleased to thank this community for their collective action in delivering a tangible outcome for the Freshwater State School hall project—which will now to be positioned on the existing canopy footprint, retaining high-value trees and green play space on the lower playground.

With your help, our request for a seat at the table was heard and a hall consultative group appointed. As a member of this group the process was sometimes uncertain but—in the end—a triumphant example of consensus, achieved through effective public consultation. The almost unanimous show of hands at our final meeting demonstrated that. That’s right, an entire room— palms extended to the ceiling—in agreeance on the hall position.

I commend the Education Department on investing in a fair and inclusive process, delivered with remarkable efficiency and purpose—to achieve an outcome we can all own, with pride.

It’s not easy to stand up (we’re tired, we dislike confrontation, I get it). This is why it’s important we share this win, that we understand requesting a seat at the table is not unreasonable.  More importantly, it’s a lesson in realising a mobilised community can influence change.

We will continue to bring our voices to the conversation to ensure Freshwater retains its leafy appeal. This is why we ask for your help, again and always, with thanks.

Towering raintree—scheduled for removal—sign the petition

The beloved raintree shading the Old Smithfield road school pick-up zone (top pick up) is scheduled for removal.

This tree is dear to hearts, providing habitat for wildlife, reducing urban heat, adding street appeal and suburb value, upholding heritage and serving an important function of removing carbon from the atmosphere. Not easily ‘replaced’ this tree has taken generations to grow to the size it is, into a magnificent natural feature delivering a multitude of benefits, the least of which, is capturing the hearts of our community.

How you can help

1. Sign the petition: https://www.change.org/p/stop-the-destruction-of-the-freshwater-rain-tree?recruited_by_id=959d39c0-c7e6-11f0-9d6d-8dd713745f54&utm_source=share_petition&utm_campaign=psf_combo_share_initial&utm_term=psf&utm_medium=copylink

2 To keep informed join our Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/1AU3MV8Qm2/

Yours gratefully, the Save our Trees team.