Dubbo Macquarie River Bushcare planted 40 trees and shrubs on Friday on Taronga Western Plains Zoo land.

The makeover was the first of several planned at different locations in coming weeks to coincide with National Tree Day on July 31.

Bushcare volunteer Melissa Gray said red gums, bottlebrush and wattles were among the species selected.

“We’ve fenced off the riverbank to protect the riparian zone from stock because stock have completely wiped out the native wattles from the bank,” she said.

“We’ve been replanting the wattles in their natural positions.”

The volunteers had been working hard in the lead-up, spraying the area so grasses and weeds did not compete with the new trees.

The group plans to put their spades into action again at Troy Bridge and Shibble Bridge.

Anyone wishing to help out or find out more can email dubbobushcare@yahoo.com.au