Trees for the Evelyn and Atherton Tablelands (TREAT) is an Australian nonprofit organization dedicated to the restoration and conservation of native rainforest ecosystems in the Wet Tropics region of Far North Queensland. Established in 1982 by Joan Wright and Geoff Tracey, TREAT focuses on growing and planting indigenous rainforest tree species to rehabilitate landscapes degraded by human activity and to preserve biodiversity in the Evelyn and Atherton Tablelands area[1][4][5].

History and Mission

Founded with the mission to restore landscape function and reconnect fragmented habitats within the Wet Tropics, TREAT has been actively engaged in revegetation efforts for over four decades. The organization was inspired by the need to counteract environmental degradation, particularly in the critically endangered Mabi rainforest ecosystem. From an initial small group of volunteers, TREAT has grown to include more than 400 members who participate in planting and conservation activities throughout the year[1][4][5].

Activities and Programs

TREAT operates primarily through volunteer involvement and community engagement. Key activities include:

• Propagation of native rainforest tree species at the Lake Eacham Nursery for use in local restoration projects.
• Organizing planting workshops that educate members and the public on site preparation, tree planting techniques, and maintenance.
• Facilitating tree planting events mainly during the Australian wet season (November to April), with preparation work continuing in the dry season (May to October).
• Offering members the opportunity to apply for free trees to support private and community restoration projects, with guidelines to ensure ecological appropriateness and effective planting strategies.
• Conducting field days, tree awareness programs, and identification workshops to raise ecological knowledge and stewardship in the region[2][3][5].

The Management Committee of TREAT carefully assesses applications for tree distribution based on criteria such as volunteer participation, site suitability, linkage to existing habitats, and conservation impact, ensuring that the organization's efforts are strategically directed toward meaningful ecological restoration[3].

Impact and Partnerships

TREAT has contributed significantly to the recovery of rainforest habitats in the Evelyn and Atherton Tablelands, supporting species diversity and ecosystem resilience. The organization works alongside governmental bodies, including the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service, and educational institutions to promote rainforest conservation and hands-on ecological restoration[5].

As a volunteer-driven entity, TREAT exemplifies community-led environmental stewardship, combining scientific approaches with local knowledge to protect and enhance one of Australia's vital ecological regions.

This article is based on information current as of 2025 and sourced from publicly available organizational profiles and environmental project reports related to Trees for the Evelyn and Atherton Tablelands.

[1] https://www.treat.net.au [2] https://www.acnc.gov.au/charity/charities/271a1751-39af-e811-a963-000d3ad244fd/profile [3] https://www.treat.net.au/copy-of-volunteer-with-treat [4] https://bucknellian.net/123828/features/guardians-of-the-canopy-the-remarkable-individuals-planting-tomorrows-rainforests/ [5] https://www.sit.edu/story/restoring-the-critically-endangered-mabi-rainforest-while-in-australia/