The Ryde Hospital Redevelopment team launched the ‘Adopt a Seedling’ initiative – a community-driven effort to help restore the Blue Gum High Forest (BGHF).
The initiative invited hospital staff, local residents, and businesses to nurture native seedlings over the next six months. Once matured, the seedlings will be replanted into the Blue Gum High Forest, helping return it to its natural state and ensuring its preservation for future generations.
Seedling collection events took place at Ryde Hospital on 29 April and 1 May 2025, with approximately 200 seedlings distributed. A community planting ceremony is planned for later this year, providing a meaningful opportunity for participants to see their contributions take root – literally. The ‘Adopt a Seedling’ program is designed to foster a sense of pride and ownership among the hospital community, while reinforcing the project’s broader sustainability efforts. It is one of several environmental initiatives supporting the ecological restoration of the BGHF as part of the $528.6 million Ryde Hospital Redevelopment.
The Blue Gum High Forest is recognised as a Critically Endangered Ecological Community and has been the focus of extensive restoration works to preserve and regenerate its delicate ecosystem. The design of the new hospital integrates the forest into the patient experience, with views of the BGHF from inpatient bedrooms intended to support healing and wellbeing.
The Ryde Hospital Redevelopment team continues to work closely with local stakeholders to protect this precious natural asset, while delivering a state-of-the-art health facility that reflects the values and character of the local community.