The Green Triangle’s plantation community has formally recognised one of its most respected leaders by naming a bushland restoration project at Australian Bluegum Plantations’ (ABP) Les Johnson Plantation, near Dergholm, in honour of outgoing CEO Russ Hughes.
The dedication of the Russ Hughes Bushland Project acknowledges Mr Hughes’ decade-long commitment to biodiversity, conservation and sustainable land management – values that underpin the Red-tailed Black Cockatoo habitat restoration being delivered at the conservation site.
Throughout his tenure with ABP, Mr Hughes championed environmental stewardship, strengthened relationships with local communities, and embedded conservation principles into everyday operational practice.
Those commitments helped lay the foundation for initiatives such as the Russ Hughes Bushland Project, which directly supports the recovery of one of the region’s most threatened species. Delivered in partnership with BirdLife Australia and Greening Australia, the project focuses on restoring critical habitat, improving food availability and increasing nesting opportunities for the critically endangered Red-tailed Black Cockatoos.
Mr Hughes joined ABP in 2015 building on his experience working with industry and First Nations communities as a professional forester in Canada.
Incoming CEO Darren Shelden, who worked closely with Mr Hughes during his tenure, said the naming of the project was a fitting acknowledgement of his influence and work ethos.
“Russ has always believed plantation forestry is about more than growing wood fibre – it’s about people, landscapes, and the legacy we leave behind. His leadership has set a benchmark for how industry can work hand-in-hand with nature,” Mr Shelden said.
“This bushland restoration will stand as a living reminder of Russ’ passion for biodiversity and his deep respect for the environment. It’s a place where staff, families and visitors can connect with the landscape he cares so deeply about, including the precious stringybark and buloke habitats that support the Red-tailed Black Cockatoo.”
The Russ Hughes Bushland Project forms part of ABP’s broader environmental enhancement program, which includes native species plantings, habitat protection, wetland restoration and long-term conservation planning across the estate.
Mr Shelden said Mr Hughes’ influence extended well beyond operational leadership.
“Russ has been a mentor, a passionate industry advocate, and a trusted colleague to so many of us. His legacy is woven into the culture of this organisation. He is thoughtful, principled, and always looking to the future and supporting the next generation of foresters,” he said.
“At the core of his work was leaving the landscape in a better condition than when it was found. This habitat restoration stands as a lasting tribute to his contribution.”
A farewell gathering with staff, industry partners and long-term collaborators was recently held at Les Johnson Plantation to mark the occasion. The event included the planting of several native species to enhance long term habitat for the Red-tailed Black Cockatoo.
While stepping down as CEO, Mr Hughes continues to contribute to the sector as founding Chair of The Precinct Project, an advanced manufacturing initiative exploring new engineered wood products from plantation fibre grown in the Green Triangle. As a founding member of the Green Triangle Forest Industries Hub, he also played a pivotal role in shaping the project’s early vision.
ABP board member and GTFIH Deputy Chair Laurie Hein said Mr Hughes had been influential in turning “ambition into action”.
“Russ’ ability to galvanise industry, government and community partners has unlocked new opportunities. From habitat restoration and koala management programs to the early visioning of The Precinct project. The region is stronger, more resilient and forward-looking because of his valued contribution,” Mr Hein said.
Pic: Outgoing ABP CEO Russ Hughes (centre) with ABP team members Dambar Mahato and Neil Turner planting new native vegetation at the Russ Hughes Bushland Project.
Pic: Signage has been installed at the Dergholm site to mark the Russ Hughes Bushland Project, unveiled in a recent celebration with the extended ABP team.