Commemorative Sign to Celebrate Jubilee Tree Planting at Opossum Creek Parklands

A new commemorative sign will soon be installed at Opossum Creek Parklands in Brookwater, marking the planting of 2,000 trees in honour of Queen Elizabeth II’s Platinum Jubilee. The sign will serve as a lasting reminder of the special occasion and the community effort behind the vibrant green space.


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The planting project was led by Springfield Lakes Nature Care, a local environmental group that was invited to apply for funding through an Expression of Interest process and successfully secured support. The trees have since flourished, transforming the parklands with increased greenery and habitat.

The sign, to be placed near the planting site, recognises both the Jubilee celebration and the dedication of the volunteers who helped bring the project to life. Springfield Lakes Nature Care regularly hosts monthly Bushcare days, encouraging residents to get involved with planting, weeding, and caring for the environment.

Opossum Creek
Photo credit: Springfield Lakes Nature Care Inc/Facebook

Local community leaders have praised the group’s ongoing commitment and the positive impact of the tree planting. The sign not only commemorates an important milestone but also invites visitors to appreciate the connection between the community and the natural world.

“Springfield Lakes Nature Care have made a notable difference to the Opossum Creek Parklands, not only by planting trees but by holding Bushcare Come and Try Days every month,” Deputy Mayor Nicole Jonic said.

Opossum Creek
Photo credit: Lochran Doherty/Google Maps

“I highly encourage residents to head down there and help out with weeding and planting and learn more about the environment that surrounds us.


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Residents are being invited to visit Opossum Creek Parklands, take in the thriving trees, and consider joining the group’s conservation efforts. The new sign stands as a symbol of growth—both of the landscape and the community spirit that nurtures it.

Published 20-May-2025

Local Volunteer Group And Young Leader Recognised During Volunteer Week

Springfield Lakes Nature Care Inc. was nominated for a top volunteering impact award in Queensland for its Platypus Watch program, as Volunteering Queensland team member Mehvish Mukaddam was also named New Volunteer of the Year.



Local Environmental Efforts Earn Statewide Recognition

Springfield Lakes Nature Care Inc., an incorporated volunteer group protecting the Opossum Creek Catchment, was nominated for the Queensland Volunteering Impact Award – Community for its Platypus Watch program.

While the award went to the National Association of Women in Construction Queensland, the nomination highlighted Springfield Lakes Nature Care as one of the state’s leading community volunteer initiatives.

A registered charity, Springfield Lakes Nature Care is a member of both Volunteering Queensland and QWaLC. Its mission focuses on habitat restoration, environmental education, and hands-on community involvement. Volunteering Queensland supports groups like this across the state through resources and advocacy.

Mehvish Mukaddam Recognised For Emerging Leadership

Mehvish Mukaddam, a member of Volunteering Queensland, was awarded the 2025 New Volunteer of the Year for her outstanding contributions to volunteer engagement, campaign support, and sector coordination. Her role spans digital communications, event planning, data analysis, and public outreach, helping strengthen the systems that connect people to meaningful volunteering opportunities.

Mukaddam said she was honoured and grateful to be recognised at an inspiring event filled with stories of community impact. She described volunteering as a rewarding way to learn, grow, and give back. Her award reflects the growing diversity in Queensland’s volunteer sector and the value of creating inclusive opportunities for new Australians.

A Spotlight On National Volunteer Week

This recognition comes as part of National Volunteer Week, running from 19 to 25 May 2025. With the theme “Connecting Communities,” the campaign highlights how volunteers across the country strengthen ties in times of economic and social difficulty.

Volunteering Australia CEO Mark Pearce said volunteers have been essential this year, supporting communities during crises and fostering connection. National Volunteer Week is a chance to celebrate their role in building resilience, especially amid natural disasters and cost-of-living pressures.

Environmental Action Driven By Local Commitment

Springfield Lakes Nature Care works to restore the environment, raise awareness, and engage locals in hands-on activities. Its programs protect natural areas and strengthen community ties, showing how small-scale efforts can drive broader environmental and social impact.



Backed by Volunteering Queensland, groups like Springfield Lakes Nature Care show how locals are helping the environment and their communities through simple, meaningful projects. This National Volunteer Week, anyone inspired to get involved can visit GoVolunteer, contact their local Volunteering Peak Body, or reach out to nearby organisations.

Published 19-May-2025