The My Tree Project story
The story begins with 11-year-old Maxim, who discovered that sitting reading in his mulberry tree made him feel creative and energetic. He told his grandmother, artist Lara Lamnek, how he felt. She wanted to help other children appreciate the benefits of trees, and the My Tree Project was born.
The project was launched in 2021 by a small team passionate about nature and art. The team works with select South Australian school students to grow trees and create art that promotes the importance of trees. Students actively help increase biodiversity, combat climate change, and express their feelings about nature, all while having fun!
‘The act of inhaling the exhalations of trees unites us all.’
Robinson, Jake M 2024, Treewilding: our past, present and future relationship with forests, p 80
Who we are
We are a small team of dedicated volunteers currently comprising members of Western Adelaide Coastal Residents’ Association (WACRA) and the Australian Association for Environmental Education (AAEE) SA Chapter.
The My Tree Project core team of five has expertise in a number of key areas – notably horticulture and art. We have run this project since 2021, so can offer tips and advice to people who would like to get involved.
We would love to connect with and support community groups and organisations interested in taking on this project in other Adelaide suburbs or rural areas. Our project resources page has lots of practical information to help you start your own My Tree Project.
Who we’ve worked with
We have worked with the following western suburbs primary and high schools:
- 2021-22: West Beach Primary School, Kilkenny Primary School
- 2023-24: Hendon Primary School, Pennington Primary School, Woodville High School, Seaton High School
- 2025-26: Pennington Primary School, Woodville High School
Pennington Primary School is an ongoing commitment as the program is now embedded and younger students are familiar with the My Tree Project as they move into years 5 and 6. They can see the evidence in the schoolyard (trees and understorey plus stobie pole art on the back fence). Woodville High School is participating in the art component and will continue to do so.
Our partner organisations
Western Adelaide Coastal Residents’ Association (WACRA)
WACRA aims to build and maintain a healthy, safe, joyous, equitable community. We work cooperatively with government, other groups and peak organisations to protect, enhance and conserve our environment.
Australian Association for Environmental Education (AAEE)
The SA Chapter of AAEE aims to develop an understanding of the relationships between the elements of the local environment, positive attitudes towards it, and skills which will enable people to actively engage in promoting its wellbeing.