Growing Skills: Arbor Day 2026
- admin813249
- Mar 10
- 3 min read
Arborists, climbers and those new to the industry will gather in the Perth Hills this March for a day dedicated to practical learning, industry connection and celebrating the importance of professional tree care.
ArbWest Arbor Day 2026 will take place on Saturday 28 March at the Perth Hills Discovery Centre, bringing together arborists from across Western Australia for hands-on workshops, demonstrations and practical training designed to strengthen skills and knowledge across the industry.
Hosted by ArbWest in partnership with training provider RelyOn, the one-day event will run from 7:30am to 4:00pm and will draw participants eager to build practical capability in the field.
The program features a range of interactive stations and demonstrations designed to reflect real-world arboriculture work. Participants will rotate through sessions covering aerial rescue, rigging techniques, knot tying, chainsaw maintenance, habitat and environmental values, and discussions about moving from tree removal to retention-focused practices.
More than just a training day, the event aims to strengthen the arboriculture community in Western Australia by creating an environment where experienced professionals and newcomers alike can learn from each other.
Supporting Training and Professional Development
RelyOn is sponsoring the event, reflecting the organisation’s strong focus on practical training and professional capability within the arboriculture sector.
Philip (Phil) Price, Vegetation Management Qualifications Manager at RelyOn, says the partnership aligns closely with the company’s commitment to education and safety in the industry.
Why did you decide to sponsor Arbor Day?
“RelyOn is proud to sponsor Arbor Day because we believe that caring for trees begins with equipping people with the right knowledge and skills. Arboriculture is a field where safety, technical expertise, and environmental responsibility all come together, and we’ve seen how proper training empowers professionals to work confidently and sustainably.
“For RelyOn, supporting Arbor Day is not just about celebrating trees—it’s about strengthening the industry that protects them. We believe that high quality training is essential in arboriculture because it reduces risks, elevates professional standards, and ensures that tree care decisions are based on sound science and best practice. When arborists are well trained, they can better preserve tree health, manage complex worksites, and respond safely to challenging conditions.
“Our sponsorship reflects our commitment to advancing education and continuous learning across the arboriculture sector. By investing in training and supporting the people who care for our urban forests, we’re helping build a safer, more knowledgeable, and more sustainable future for everyone who depends on healthy trees.”
Practical Learning for Real-World Work
Arbor Day is designed to be highly practical, with demonstrations and workshops focusing on the everyday realities arborists face on worksites.
Participants will have the opportunity to practise techniques, ask questions and learn directly from experienced professionals in a relaxed and supportive environment. The event also includes a sausage sizzle lunch and free camping for those who wish to stay overnight, helping create a strong sense of community among attendees.
According to Phil, practical and accessible training is central to improving safety and capability across the industry.
Beyond Arbor Day, how does RelyOn support arborists in developing their skills and careers? “RelyOn is all about supporting the people who keep our trees healthy and our worksites safe. We know arboriculture is hands on, technical, and sometimes tough work, so we focus on training that’s practical, down to earth, and built around what tree workers actually face every day. Whether it’s learning safer climbing techniques, understanding tree biology, or building confidence with equipment, we’re here to help arborists grow their skills and feel supported in their careers.
“We’re also big believers in community and collaboration. That’s why we work closely with industry groups, local crews, and organisations like the ArbWest to help lift the whole sector. By backing training, sharing knowledge, and encouraging continuous learning, RelyOn is proud to play a part in building a safer, stronger, and more skilled arboriculture industry across WA.
“And while arboriculture is a big part of what we do, it’s not the whole picture. RelyOn also delivers a wide range of training across safety, equipment operation, and workplace capability, helping teams in many industries build confidence and competence. From high risk work licences to practical skills development and refresher courses, we’re committed to making training accessible, relevant, and genuinely useful for anyone looking to work smarter and safer.”
Building a Stronger Arboriculture Community
Events like Arbor Day play an important role in strengthening the arboriculture profession in Western Australia. By bringing together industry professionals, trainers and newcomers, the day helps build knowledge, confidence and collaboration across the sector.
For arborists looking to improve their practical skills, connect with others in the industry and spend a day learning among the trees, ArbWest Arbor Day promises to be both educational and enjoyable.
Arbor Day
28 March
Perth Hills Discovery Centre
7.30am-4pm
Register here:
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