New trees and landscaping

The South Geelong to Waurn Ponds Duplication will plant close to 5,000 new trees and more than 160,000 shrubs, groundcovers and grasses along the rail line to enhance the local area.

A major tree planting and landscaping program will commence in Spring 2024, with 99% of species to be Australian natives.

Trees, shrubs and grasses will be planted in the station precincts, around the new rail bridges and along the new shared walking and cycling path once construction is complete.

These will create a green buffer between residents and the rail line, with at least 2 trees planted for every 1 removed.

To view the landscaping plans for each of the areas see the fact sheets below.

Here’s what we’re planting

  • 165,000 new plants across South Geelong, Thomson, Breakwater, Marshall and Grovedale
  • 170 trees and 15,000 shrubs at South Geelong Station
  • 1,850 trees and 48,000 shrubs in the Fyans Street precinct
  • 2,550 trees and 61,000 shrubs in the Surf Coast Highway precinct.
  • 130 trees and 36,000 shrubs at Marshall Station

Plant selection and species

When choosing plants for this project, the focus was on plants indigenous to the area and Australian native plants. Wherever possible, consideration was made to reinstate vegetation from the local Ecological Vegetation Classes (EVCs), such as Grassy Woodlands, to contribute to local biodiversity systems.

Plants were carefully selected to suit the proposed conditions of each landscape types. For example, Water Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD) species were chosen for establishment at the basin on Surf Coast Highway and the ephemeral wetland.

Drought tolerance, future climate conditions and maintenance needs also played a key role in the plants selected.

The project uses a small amount of climate appropriate non-native plants at South Geelong Station, and within all lawn and turf areas used for recreational areas.

Working with local nurseries

Wherever possible, plants have been sourced from local nurseries.

Businesses include:

  • Geelong Indigenous Nursery
  • Grey box & Grasslands Indigenous nursery
  • Iramoo Indigenous Nursery
  • Balga