As infrastructure grows across Adelaide, it creates opportunities to enhance native vegetation, restore local ecosystems, and support inclusive employment. One example of this is the Southern Expressway development at Majors Road, a tier one major infrastructure upgrade providing new on- and off-ramps connecting Majors Road directly to the Southern Expressway. This project is being managed by Acciona, with Hydromulch Australia overseeing the revegetation efforts. GreenInc has been engaged by Hydromulch Australia play a vital role in this, including managing the planting of trees, shrubs and ground covers across the site.
Borne in October 2023, GreenInc is a Bedford-backed social enterprise that is becoming known for both its horticultural expertise and its commitment to employing people of all abilities, including those with disability. Our work on this large-scale infrastructure project demonstrates how social inclusion and professional excellence can go hand in hand.
GreenInc’s Role in Bringing the Landscape to Life
GreenInc has installed 228 advanced trees along Majors Road. These trees were staked, planted, and thoroughly watered in. Species include Banksia integrifolia (Coastal Banksia), Geijera parviflora (Wilga/Native Willow/Australian Willow), Eucalyptus microcarpa (Grey Box), Eucalyptus porosa (Mallee Box), and Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. megalocarpa (Blue Gum).
In addition to tree planting, GreenInc coordinated the supply and delivery of 15,839 plants in 140 mm pots and 26,000 tube stock plants. These are being installed across 25,000 square metres along both sides of the Expressway and adjacent to Majors Road. The tube stock includes protective corflute tree guards to aid in early growth and survival. To help with the large-scale planting, GreenInc subcontracted Dirty Australia.
GreenInc’s responsibilities included batching plant species, loading them onto trucks, delivering them to planting zones, and distributing them in planting-ready groups. We also supplied stakes, tree guards and fertiliser to support the planting crews.
People Power: Skill and Dedication Behind the Work
Watering is a critical part of the process, especially on the sloped batters along the expressway. Our team used a water truck equipped with a long hose that must be carefully manoeuvred through the densely planted areas. This task requires patience and attention to avoid damaging the newly installed plants or knocking over the guards.
One GreenInc team member who has made a strong impression on site is Reece. He has been involved in both watering and stock movement, demonstrating strong attention to detail and reliability. Whether assisting with the hose or counting and sorting plants for delivery, Reece has shown dedication and accuracy. His mathematical skills have proven particularly helpful when handling trays that vary in size, with different quantities of pots and tube stock. Watch as Reece tells his story here.
Hydromulch Australia has been impressed by the partnership with GreenInc and by Reece’s contribution to the team. They shared the following testimonial:
"We chose GreenInc as a partner on this project based on a combination of their professional approach to horticulture and being a business that shares the same key values as we do. The collaborative approach we have had has made it a positive work environment for all involved. With regards to Reece’s involvement, we jumped at the opportunity to integrate him into the project. Reece’s passion for landscape construction and the positive attitude he brings to site (especially at the early hours of the morning on a cold and windy day!) has been such a positive influence on the team. He has proven to be a valuable asset."
Major Native, Local, and Sustainable Outcomes
All plants used in the project are Australian natives and have been sourced through local wholesale nurseries. More than 20 genera are being installed, including Acacia, Allocasuarina, Callistemon, Dodonaea, Dianella, Enchylaena, Ficinia, Goodenia, Hardenbergia, Lomandra, Myoporum, Olearia, Poa, Rhagodia, Westringia, and multiple species of Eucalyptus.
This project is not only helping to restore local ecology but also supports local supply chains and creation of inclusive job opportunities. GreenInc continues to demonstrate how landscape construction can deliver environmental benefits, social value, and professional quality on some of the nation’s most complex infrastructure projects.
Focus on Safety and Collaboration
Safety is of utmost importance at GreenInc and, fittingly, it is also a top priority on this tier one project. Each workday begins with a 6:45 am toolbox meeting led by Acciona, ensuring that everyone on-site is aligned and aware of the tasks ahead. All team members are required to complete a six-part Job Hazard Analysis (JHA) card each day. This process helps identify and reduce risks associated with daily tasks. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), including hard hats, is mandatory and must be worn at all times on site. This aligns beautifully with our dual focus on the wellbeing of people and the environment.
Big Projects, Bigger Purpose
The Southern Expressway landscape works highlight GreenInc Landscape Construction’s ability to deliver professional, large-scale planting projects while staying true to its social values and mission to move the earth to make a difference. Through a combination of horticultural expertise, strong coordination, and inclusive employment, GreenInc has helped contribute to a safer, greener, and more sustainable important transport corridor in Adelaide.