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New electric vehicle for Sale Botanic Gardens to replace old petrol version as part of eco-friendly focus

Wellington Shire Council advances its transition to electric equipment, replacing petrol-powered machinery with an eco-friendly utility vehicle, enhancing efficiency and sustainability in operations at Sale Botanic Gardens.

By news@gippsland - 14th March 2024 - Back to News

Wellington Shire Council is charging ahead with its transition of petrol-powered equipment, following the purchase of a new electric utility vehicle. At the end of its usable life, Sale Botanic Gardens' ageing ride-on wheelbarrow has been replaced by an environmentally-friendly electric grounds and turf vehicle.

Wellington Shire Council Horticulturalist Lucy Brilman and Sale Botanic Gardens Curator Tony King test drive the new electric cart

Sustainable garden vehicle

Similar to a modified golf cart, the vehicle plugs into a normal power point and can hold charge for up to three days, eliminating fumes, the need to buy fuel or complete extensive servicing. It's quiet motor means less engine noise in the gardens, improving amenity for visitors and wildlife. The vehicle has an in-built tipper for mulch and soil, extra capacity to carry two staff at once, and its trailer has already proven handy for lugging off-cuts and tools.

After a month behind the wheel, council's Natural Environment and Parks team is happy to report the new vehicle is meeting all expectations, having improved day-to-day operations. Staff are now able to stay out in the field for longer, instead of frequenting the Gardens' maintenance shed for petrol, and can navigate the Gardens' narrower paths while transporting multiple tools - an advantage over a ute or truck.

Sustainability drive continues

Wellington Shire Council Mayor Ian Bye said the decision to replace outdated equipment with an electric vehicle follows last year's swap to a suite of battery-powered tools at Sale Botanic Gardens. "Council has been looking for ways to improve efficiencies across the board, and lead when it comes to implementing sustainable practices that will take us into the future - and this is a great example."

"The transition supports our commitment to reduce our carbon footprint and reach net zero by 2040. We'll continue to electrify our operations over the next five years, in line with priorities set out in our Council Plan," Cr Bye said. For more information, please contact council's Natural Environment and Parks team on 1300 366 244.

Pictures from Wellington Shire Council website.

Source: www.gippsland.com

Published by: news@gippsland.com