Limestone2025R_Down_S3

Limestone2025R_Down_S3 is a plantation forestry project located in the rich volcanic plains of South West Victoria, approximately 6km northwest of the town of Koroit and 16km west of the major regional centre of Warrnambool. It was registered in July 2025 and covers 62.22 ha.

Plantation forestry projects under the 2022 methodology determination generally involve establishing new plantations, converting short-rotation forests to long-rotation ones, or avoiding the conversion of existing plantations to non-forested land. In this specific project, the standard activity prevents land at risk of being converted to agricultural pasture from being cleared. Instead of removing the harvested timber to repurpose the soil, the proponent commits to re-establishing and maintaining a new plantation forest for the commercial harvesting of wood products, actively sequestering carbon in both growing trees and harvested materials.

The surrounding region within the Moyne Shire is renowned for its fertile landscape, supporting intensive dairying, cattle grazing, and significant commercial forestry operations. The site sits within a high-rainfall zone, typically receiving over 700mm annually, which is ideal for commercial timber production. Soils in this area are largely derived from the Newer Volcanics province and are characterised by highly fertile, well-drained basalt loams and clay.

An interesting aspect of this project is its strategic role in regional forestry movements. In December 2025, there was a variation of the proponent, transferring the project from The Trust Company (PTAL) Limited (acting as trustee for ANZFOF2 Sub 1) to OneFortyOne Plantations Pty Ltd. This transfer closely aligns with OneFortyOne's broader acquisition of the Limestone Coast forestry estate from New Forests (ANZFF2), ensuring the land remains under sustainable, certified plantation management within the Green Triangle rather than being lost to pasture conversion.