Benalla business Speciality Trees is generously donating more than 1000 trees to communities impacted by the January bushfires.
As a longstanding grower of advanced trees supplying the landscaping industry including councils, Speciality Trees grows its deciduous bareroot tree material in the nutrient-rich soils of Benalla.
While not directly impacted by the fires, the surrounding countryside, particularly around Yarck, provides a constant reminder of the devastation.
Speciality Trees owner and managing director, Hamish Mitchell, said it was only by sheer luck that its Benalla site evade impact, but the emotional and physical aftermath of fire upon the community is deeply shared.
“It’s all about growing again and growing better together,” he said.
“Donating 1000 trees to our regional community represents a sizeable portion of our own 2026 bareroot supply.
“We wanted to help the community in a practical way and we felt this was the best way to do that.”
State Member for Euroa Annabelle Cleeland welcomed the initiative, describing it as a meaningful act of generosity that will help families take another step forward in their recovery.
"Recovery isn't just about rebuilding homes. It's about restoring the places people love and creating hope for the future," Ms Cleeland said.
"After everything these communities have endured, a simple gesture like planting a tree can represent a fresh start and a sign that brighter days are ahead."
Speciality Trees will be offering bundles of five trees, with a range of varieties available suitable for restoring fire affected properties.
The free tree giveaway will be available during Speciality Trees' opening weekend on August 14, 15 and 16, with fire affected residents invited to collect a bundle while stocks last.
Ms Cleeland praised the business for stepping up to support local families at a time when many are still navigating the long road to recovery.
"This is regional Victoria at its very best,“ she said.
“When government support has often been slow or lacking, it's local businesses and community members who continue to step forward and make a real difference.
"These trees will one day provide shade, shelter, beauty and habitat, but right now they also provide something just as important: hope."
Ms Cleeland encouraged eligible residents to take advantage of the offer and thanked the team at Speciality Trees for their generosity.
"I want to sincerely thank Hamish and everyone at Speciality Trees for recognising that recovery is about more than bricks and mortar,“ she said.
“Their generosity will help restore not just landscapes, but spirits as well."
Fire affected residents can collect one bundle of five free trees during the Speciality Trees opening weekend while allocations last.
Collection location and pick up times:
Speciality Trees, 1317 Mansfield Rd, Benalla.
Friday, August 14, 8am–4pm.
Saturday, August 15, 8am–4pm.
Sunday, August 16, 8am–12pm.
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