Nominations open for round 2 of the Cool It Street Program

Published on 27 October 2023

Mildura Rural City Council is partnering with the Loddon Mallee Public Health Unit to create healthier and greener neighbourhoods through its Cool It Street Program.

Several lucky neighbourhoods will undergo a transformation through the program’s second round, with nominations now open for residents to register their street, or section of their street online.

The program aims to provide quality tree canopy cover by planting semi-mature trees in areas of need, with benefits including improved streetscape amenities, more shade and walkability, and addressing impacts of climate change.

To be eligible streets must:

•          Be five years or older
•          Consist of at least five residential properties
•          Have little to no trees in their nature strips
•          Have multiple residents show their support for the initiative.

Councillor for Environment and Sustainability Jason Modica said the second round of the program will provide another opportunity to beautify our residential streets.

“Earlier this year six streets were lucky enough to be transformed through the initiative, and we’re excited to be partnering with the Bendigo Health Loddon Mallee Public Health Unit to increase shade in several more areas,” Cr Modica said.

“The program has already proven it has the ability to create healthier and cooler neighbourhoods and showcases how we are better adapting to climate change.

“It will also increase awareness and knowledge within our community about the importance of urban greening, which is relevant in our region given our hot summers."

Bendigo Health Loddon Mallee Public Health Unit Operations Manager Emma Vains said this partnership would help the region address a public health challenge.

“The research shows that climate change, particularly extreme heat events, is among the biggest risks to public health in our region,” she said. 

“Our role is to work with local leaders like Mildura Rural City Council to build upon and expand their great work in responding to the challenge of climate change.”

Residents can nominate by visiting www.mildura.vic.gov.au/Cool-It and complete a simple online form.

Nominations will close at 5pm on Friday 17 November 2023.

For more information about the Cool It Street Program contact Environmental Sustainability Education Officer Nardia Baker on 03 5018 8100

ENDS