Sleatbank Carbon and Biodiversity Project

The Sleatbank Carbon and Biodiversity Project is a plantation forestry project located at the historic "Sleatbank" property in Yulecart, approximately 12 kilometres west of the major regional centre of Hamilton in Victoria. Registered in July 2024, the project covers roughly 408 hectares of land in the Shire of Southern Grampians.

The project operates under the Carbon Credits (Carbon Farming Initiative, Plantation Forestry) Methodology Determination 2022. Specifically, it involves an "avoided conversion" activity. This means the proponent, Green Triangle Plantation Forest Company of Australia Pty Ltd (GPFL), has committed to maintaining an existing plantation forest, likely Eucalyptus globulus (Blue Gum), that was otherwise scheduled to be harvested and converted into non-forested agricultural land, such as pasture for grazing or cropping. By continuing the plantation cycle instead of clearing the land for traditional farming, the project ensures the carbon remains stored in the trees.

The surrounding Western District region is renowned for its fertile volcanic plains and is a premier area for wool, prime lamb, and beef production. The "Sleatbank" property itself is described in historical listings as featuring "rolling loamy banks" and receives a high annual rainfall of approximately 675mm, conditions that support both vigorous timber growth and high-value agriculture. The property is also historically significant, hosting a Federation-style Edwardian homestead dating back to the early 20th century. The proponent, GPFL, is a key player in the "Green Triangle" forestry region, established in 1997 to manage hardwood plantations for export woodchip markets.