As the school year comes to an end, Keitha Theodore, Environmental Science teacher at Ballarat Grammar, has chosen a farewell gift that’s both meaningful and lasting – a native tree planted for each of her 21 students.

In total, 21 trees have been planted to mark the end of a chapter and the beginning of many new ones. The gesture is a beautiful way to wish her students well as they step beyond the classroom, taking with them the lessons learned about caring for the planet.

The idea was to wish the students well on their journey after school, and in HOPE that they continue to take care of Mother Earth – carrying on the legacy from Jane Goodall.

Keitha Theodore | VCE Teacher | Ballarat Grammar

The connection to Dr Jane Goodall’s message of compassion, action, and hope makes this gesture all the more special. Each tree stands as a living reminder of the power of small actions, collective effort and belief in a better future. As these young people set out on their next adventure, their trees will be growing too – creating habitat for wildlife, improving biodiversity, and restoring native landscapes across Australia.

A beautiful legacy of learning, love for the environment, and above all – hope.

The trees (21) were planted at the base of one of Melbourne’s most iconic landmarks and busiest gateways to the city – the Westgate Bridge. Nestled beneath this urban landmark is another small strand of trees dedicated to the EnvSci Class of 2025.

Tree species included a wide variety of natives, including: wattles (Heath, Golden, Lightwood and Coastal), sheoaks (Black, Swamp and Green), saltbushes (Grey and Marsh), correas (White, Smooth and Common) and eucalyptus (River Red Gum, Yello Gum, Ironbark, Swamp Gum and Manna Gum).

As the students will know – biodiversity is important for a healthy ecosystem, and this particular planting will help create a rich and resilient ecosystem. As the species flower and fruit at different times of the year, they will provide a continuous supply of food and shelter for local wildlife – from birds and insects to small mammals. Over time, these plantings will not only enhance the biodiversity of Westgate Park but also ensure it becomes a vibrant, living landscape where both people and nature can thrive side by side.

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.