Mayfield tree planting and playground opening

Mayfield residents have come together today to celebrate the opening of a new playground at the Avon Street Reserve, which was upgraded as part of City of Newcastle's annual playground replacement program.

The community event also provided an opportunity for City of Newcastle to plant a tree to mark the coronation of avid environmentalist King Charles III.

Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes helped plant the Australian red cedar at the Avon Street Reserve today, following the formal ceremony for the newly-crowned British monarch, which was held in London on 6 May.

Tree planting activities have been held around the world to celebrate the coronation, while King Charles III himself recently planted the final tree in Britain's Queen's Green Canopy initiative, which saw more than three million trees planted across the United Kingdom in honour of his mother's reign of more than 70 years.

Cr Nelmes said City of Newcastle is committed to increasing urban forest canopy cover for future generations and for wildlife.

"Late last year City of Newcastle created a living legacy for the long-lasting reign of Queen Elizabeth II by planting a 700m long avenue of native trees in Maryland as part of the Australian Government’s Planting Trees for The Queen’s Jubilee Program," Cr Nelmes said.

"It seems only fitting to plant a new tree today in honour of the coronation of King Charles III who, like his mother, is well known for his interest in the environment and conservation.

"This Australian Red Cedar will grow into a large feature tree that will add shade to the park and complement this fantastic new playground, which is already being well utilised by the local community."

The Avon Street Reserve playground was one of five new playgrounds upgraded across Newcastle this year as part of a $750,000 investment into delivering improved recreational opportunities for families across the local government area.

Other new playgrounds have been opened at Loch Ness Drive Park in Fletcher, Waratah Park in Waratah, Harold Myers Park in Birmingham Gardens and Vera Wilson Park in Beresfield.