Neu21 believes in the future. Their focus is on creating better systems and workplaces, and encouraging bold thinking via consulting services. The company, under the direction of Gus Balbontin, is all about building a culture of innovation that continuously exceeds customer expectations, where people are proactive and purposeful in their attitude and approach.

This year, working with Geelong Landcare, we organised the planting of the 200 Neu21 trees at Bruce Creek at Golden Plains Shire (Wadawurrung Country). This area was once dominated by an Eucalypt and Sheoak woodland with a grassy understory. However, over the years, the area has been largely cleared and taken over by introduced pasture grasses. The aim of the planting group is to restore the site to past biomes with the planting of  species such as indigenous Manna Gums, Swamp Gums, narrow-leaf Peppermints, Drooping Sheoaks and Black Wattle.

Enhancing what native vegetation still remains and providing critically important animal habitat will see an improvement in both the local fauna species as well as those species (e.g. kangaroos, echidnas) using this area as a corridor or stepping stones between native reserves. There is a large diversity of fauna in the area, with animals such as Growling Grass-frogs, Rakali and one of our most iconic Australian animals the platypus.

Geelong Landcare Network was so thrilled to be given plants for this project. We thank all our supporters. Our aim is to restore and enhance our natural environment and your contribution has directly contributed to this aim. Thank you once again.

Bronwyn Merritt | Facilitator | Geelong Landcare Network.

Thank you Neu21 for the additional funding for tree guards. These guards helps protect the new seedlings and gives them protection from grazers, in particular rabbits and kangaroos. Inside the plastic sleeves, a microclimate helps protect them from harsh UV, drifting sand, frost, and wind. Once the seedlings survive their first summer and get the opportunity to develop a strong taproot, their chances of survival skyrockets.

Neu21 now have a tally of 1,940 trees! A Neu21 forest! You can find all their trees by typing Neu21 into the search box at Find My Trees. 

If you would like to know more about sponsoring community tree planting projects and how we can assist you in becoming a more sustainable business, please contact Colleen at <[email protected]>.

Writer: Colleen B. Filippa

With a background in Environmental Science, Colleen is the Founding Director of Fifteen Trees. In 2009, after 20 years in primary, secondary and tertiary education institutions, Colleen left the classroom to start the company. Fifteen Trees is a social enterprise assisting individuals and companies to reduce their carbon footprint by supporting community groups such as Landcare, schools and environmental networks.