The works involve:

• Transport of seedlings, tree guards and stakes from nominated VF depots to site
• Planting of eucalypt seedlings
•  Placement of fertiliser tablets
• Installation of tree guards
• Pinning down of tree guards

Each site is treated as a separate tender lot. Given the quantity and complexity of the work it is anticipated that the work will be allocated between several contractors.

Ease of access varies between the sites. Some are accessible by 4x4, some by side-by-side, and some only by foot. The contractor is responsible for the transport of seedlings, fertiliser and guarding materials to the site. Access to some of the sites is very challenging.

Contractors are strongly encouraged to visit all sites prior to submitting their response. Maps are attached showing the planting sites. Maps are georeferenced so will work in Avenza Maps.

Works must be completed as per the specification attached in Appendix 2.

Where applicable, earthmoving machinery will be preparing sites for planting in March–May 2023. As most sites were not prepared at the time of tender release, there may be some variation between the planned and actual planting area. Any changes to area will change the number of seedlings required per site.

Note: Each contractor will have an allocation of recycled guards to re-use in their program. This will be determined equally across all successful contractors according to size of program.

Timing of works

Commencement:

• Planting can commence from 1 July 2023.
• It may be possible to commence earlier subject to seedling availability and suitable rainfall.

Completion:

• Preference is for works to be completed by 25 August 2023.
• At the latest, works must be completed by 8 September 2023.
• Preference will be given to contractors who can complete their allotted sites within the preferred timeframe.
• If contractors are falling behind the timeframe they indicated in their submission, VicForests may reallocate some of their sites.

Submission of tender

· Responses must be received by 5pm Monday 5 June 2023.

· Responses must be on the form attached in Appendix 3. · Responses may be submitted by email to karen.doherty@vicforests.com.au, with subject line ’Confidential planting tender’.

Questions

Any questions must be directed to Karen Doherty on 0419 876 963 or at karen.doherty@vicforests.com.au

There will be an opportunity to attend a field day for contractors who have not previously worked for VicForests before and would like more information.

Questions must be received no later than midday on Wednesday 24 May 2023.