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Council unveils new bitumen patching truck added to its fleet. Photo supplied
Hinchinbrook Shire Council has invested in road maintenance through the introduction of a new bitumen patching truck to its fleet.
Expected to reduce repair times by approximately 30 per cent and improve operational productivity by around 25 per cent, the new truck will strengthen Council's ability to undertake pothole repairs, pavement patching, edge repairs and routine road maintenance across the Hinchinbrook road network.
Acting Mayor Mary Brown said the investment will help Council deliver safer road conditions and respond more effectively to road maintenance needs throughout the Shire.
"Residents want roads that are safe and well maintained, and they expect us to respond quickly when repairs are needed," Cr Brown said.
"This new Bitumen Patching Truck will help our crews work more efficiently, complete more repairs each day and provide better value for our community."
The truck replaces an ageing jet patcher and provides a more reliable, purpose-built solution for road maintenance operations.
The new vehicle is expected to support up to 800 road maintenance activities each year and repair around 4,000 potholes annually, depending on weather events and maintenance priorities. Council also anticipates whole-of-life operating cost savings of approximately 10 to 15 per cent through improved reliability, reduced downtime and lower maintenance requirements.
In addition to productivity gains, the truck incorporates modern safety features including automatic transmission, a reversing camera and a purpose-built bitumen patching body designed to improve operational safety and efficiency.
The integrated equipment reduces manual handling and enables road maintenance work to be completed more safely and effectively in the field.
Infrastructure Services portfolio Councillor Andrew Carr said the investment demonstrates Council's commitment to maintaining essential infrastructure and ensuring residents across both urban and rural areas benefit from reliable road networks.
"Whether you're travelling to work, taking the kids to school or transporting goods across the region, well-maintained roads are vital," Cr Carr said.
"This investment gives our crews the tools they need to keep delivering the services our community relies on every day."
Residents that notice a pothole or road that requires maintenance are encouraged to contact Council on (07) 4776 4600 to lodge a request.
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