GreenInc was engaged by Hydromulch Australia to deliver large-scale planting works as part of the South Expressway project where it intersects with Majors Road. This major infrastructure development was managed by Acciona, with Hydromulch overseeing the revegetation of the site. GreenInc’s role focused on planting advanced trees, shrubs, and ground covers across extensive areas of the road corridor. The project provided an opportunity to showcase our capability in managing high-volume native planting under strict safety protocols, while also creating inclusive employment opportunities for people of all abilities.
Background and Scope
The South Expressway is a $120 million infrastructure initiative that connects Majors Road to the Southern Expressway and is aimed at improving transport efficiency for commuters in Adelaide’s southern suburbs. As part of the broader development, significant revegetation and landscaping work was required.
Hydromulch Australia was appointed by Acciona to manage all revegetation aspects of the project, including soil amelioration treatments, hydroseeding, mulching, and plant installation. GreenInc was engaged by Hydromulch Australia to carry out the core planting works, including the installation of trees, shrubs, and ground cover species and the initial watering in.
"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.”
GreenInc’s responsibilities on the project included:
- Installing 228 advanced native trees along Majors Road.
- Coordinating the delivery and supply of over 39,000 plants including:
- 15,839 plants in 140mm pots
- 26,000 tube stock plants
- Subcontracting and supervising the planting team from Dirty Australia.
- Managing plant distribution, batching, fertiliser, tree guards, and stakes.
- Watering all installed vegetation using both manual and mechanical methods.
Creation of a Native Plants Haven
All plants used on the project were 100 percent Australian natives that we sourced through a local wholesale nurseries, ensuring strong biosecurity and supply chain support.
The advanced tree species installed included:
- Banksia integrifolia (Coastal Banksia)
- Geijera parvifolia (Wilga)
- Eucalyptus microcarpa (Grey Box)
- Eucalyptus porosa (Mallee Box)
- Eucalyptus leucoxylon ssp. megalocarpa (Blue Gum)
More than 20 genera were represented in the smaller stock, including:
Acacia, Allocasuarina, Callistemon, Dodonaea, Dianella, Enchylaena, Ficinia, Goodenia, Hardenbergia, Lomandra, Myoporum, Olearia, Poa, Rhagodia, and Westringia.
These species were selected for their resilience, habitat support, and suitability for the project’s steep batters and exposed conditions.
Site Conditions and Challenges
The terrain along the Expressway features numerous sloped batters and drainage zones. This required extra care during both planting and watering to avoid erosion and prevent damage to newly installed plants.
To manage the watering on steep slopes, we used a water truck equipped with a long hose. Staff navigated the hose through dense plantings by hand, ensuring each plant received sufficient water without disturbing the soil or tree guards.
Plant handling and delivery logistics were another key component of the project. Many of the tube stock and pots were delivered in trays of different sizes. GreenInc team members were responsible for counting and batching plants correctly, ensuring species mixes matched planting plans across various zones of the site.
Inclusive Employment and Team Highlights
As a Bedford-backed social enterprise, GreenInc employs people of all abilities and promotes inclusive practices in landscape construction. Team member Reece worked on the Majors Road project, assisting with watering and plant logistics.
His attention to detail and strong mathematical skills helped manage the complexity of sorting plant trays and tracking stock. Reece also played an important role during watering, working the hose on difficult terrain with focus and care.
Hydromulch Australia acknowledged Reece’s contribution in a statement:
“Reece’s passion for landscape construction and the positive attitude he brings to site, especially in the early morning on cold and windy days, has had such a positive influence on the team. He has proven to be a valuable asset.”
Hear from Reece here
Health and Safety Compliance
As a tier one project, strict health and safety protocols were followed at all times, which aligned well with our focus on safety. Greeninc staff participated in daily 6:45 am toolbox meetings conducted by Acciona, and completed a six-part Job Hazard Analysis card each day to assess risks specific to the tasks they would perform.
All personnel adhered to the site’s PPE requirements, including mandatory hard hats, safety vests and Hi-Vis clothing, and protective gear during all operations.
Outcomes and Imapct
A Major Accomplishment
The Southern Expressway Majors Road landscape works highlight GreenInc’s ability to deliver professional, large-scale planting projects while staying true to our social values of moving the earth to make a difference by employing people of all abilities. Through a combination of horticultural expertise, strong coordination, and inclusive employment, GreenInc helped contribute to a safer, greener and more sustainable important transport corridor in Adelaide.