21/05/2026
From Seed to Strategy brought together leading voices in urban greening to tackle one big question — how do we actually deliver canopy outcomes in Perth?
Held at the iconic WACA Ground in Perth, the venue was at capacity, highlighting the huge level of interest in the topic. Representatives from 17 local authorities and two State Government departments attended alongside arborists, consultants, urban foresters and industry professionals.
Josh Byrne reminded the audience that urban greening is no longer about awareness, but delivery. “Trees must be treated as essential urban infrastructure from the beginning of development, not added later as landscaping,” he said.
Nicholas Dufty from DPLH outlined the State Government’s plan to reach 30% canopy cover by 2040, including the Let’s Grow Grants program, stronger planning integration and long-term urban greening coordination.
Dr Freya Thomas shared lessons from more than 12 years of Melbourne’s Urban Forest Strategy, highlighting the importance of long-term planning, biodiversity, data and community involvement.
Sarah Allchurch from WATCA talked about the vital role of community canopy groups in raising awareness and advocating for change, warning that despite canopy targets, we are still designing canopy loss into new suburbs. “Perth has the lowest canopy cover of any Australian capital,” she said.
ArbWest President Dave Crispin said the seminar highlighted the growing momentum behind urban greening in WA. “It was good to see industry, local government and State Government all in the same room focused on the future of Perth’s canopy,” he said.
Organiser Nick Hayes said the event showed there is real optimism around delivering better canopy outcomes. “There is strong collaboration building across the sector, and together we can help create a greener, cooler and more liveable Perth for future generations,” he said.
Sponsored by Vermeer WA & NT
Photos:
1. Josh Byrne and Sarah Allchurch
2. Organisers and presenters, left to right: Joe Carriera, Pia Finnigan, Zana Sheary, Nick Hayes – all from ArbWest. Sarah Allchurch, Dave Crispin – ArbWest, Freya Thomas and Nicholas Dufty.
3. Freya Thomas and Joe Carriera
4. Nicholas Dufty
5. Dave Crispin and Sarah Allchurch
6-10 Attendees in the audience
