A Planet Ark initiative, National Tree Day aims to replant and reintroduce native trees to more than 3000 sites across Australia.

This year, five of those sites will be in the Shellharbour region, at Albion Park, Warilla, Oak Flats and Flinders during July and August. 

Shellharbour City Council natural areas officer Andrew Lee said the day was a great way to educate people about the process of restoring areas of native vegetation. 

‘‘Most of the areas we’re working on for National Tree Day are ones that have been worked on by bushcare groups, who have removed exotic plants and weeds, and prepared the sites with mulch for tree planting,’’ Mr Lee said. 

‘‘It’s a great chance for people to get down and dirty and enjoy nature.

"It’s a great opportunity to teach people about the importance of native vegetation and explain the differences between different species of trees.’’

Anybody interested in taking part on the day is encouraged to register.

All levels of experience are accepted.

‘‘The areas are prepared for the planting and gloves will be provided on the day," Mr Lee said.

"Anything else people need to know will be fully explained to them on the day.

‘‘Traditionally, the Shellharbour sites always get a strong turnout and we’d like to see that continue.’’

For more information, dates or to register head to the www.treeday.planetark.org/find-a-site/ website.