The team at Trillion Trees are celebrating following the announcement that we will receive a $50,000 grant to implement a new native seed program. This project is supported by funding from the Western Australian Government’s State NRM Program.
The Trillion Trees Native Seed Program establishes a community-run program for the sustainable collection, processing and storage of native seed for ecological restoration in WA. The project will be based at the Trillion Trees Community Nursery in Hazelmere, with seed collection on private properties spanning the Swan Coastal Plain, Darling Ranges and Avon Wheatbelt.
“This funding is a massive boost to our dedicated volunteer community who are so passionate about healing landscapes through our shared love of trees. We need to create a seed collection program because the mounting challenges with native seed supply, quality and provenance are negatively impacting the success of our ecological restoration projects. Collecting and processing our own seed will increase the biodiverse range and quality of native plants grown in our community nursery for our own restoration work, and for the conservation groups who rely on us to supply high quality native plants in WA,” explained Doug Laurie, Ecological Restoration Manager at Trillion Trees.
The member for Belmont, Cassie Rowe MLA, shared the good news with the Trillion Trees team: “I love the way that Trillion Trees combine conservation with engaging our local community, and I really look forward to seeing the impact of the Cook Labor Government’s $50,000 grant on their Native Seed Collection Program," she said.
As a community-led not for profit organisation, Trillion Trees (formerly Men of the Trees WA) has been working to heal landscapes through a shared love of trees since 1979. During this long history, native seed collection has often been a part of volunteer-led activities - renewed interest and increasing volunteer numbers have underpinned a new strategic direction to grow a seed collection program that is fit for today.
"These grants recognise the expertise, volunteer commitment, and strong community partnerships that drive sustainable management of Western Australia's natural resources.
"It's terrific to see such a diverse range of projects being supported - from habitat restoration to threatened species protection - all contributing to a healthier environment and stronger biodiversity across the State," said Environment Minister Matthew Swinbourn.
The seed collection program will be delivered in partnership with experienced Trillion Trees volunteers - these ‘elders’ will train and guide other volunteers, ensuring knowledge transfer and intergenerational learning. “From the earliest planning stage of this community volunteering program, volunteers are already participating and shaping its direction. There are so many benefits to getting involved – it’s a fun way to get active in nature which brings many health and wellbeing benefits,” added Mr Laurie.
Works on the construction of a new seed processing shed and cool room for secure seed storage will begin in early 2026.
