Taking delivery of new CAT graders.
A trio of new CATS will help Central Highlands Regional run a leaner and greener operation.
Chief Executive Officer Scott Mason said when you are responsible for maintenance and improvement of roads for an area the size of Tasmania, it is critical that operations run efficiently and effectively.
‘Today we took possession of three new CAT 140M graders to replace older models; a commitment by the council to deliver sustainability, safety and savings to ratepayers.
‘Upgrading and modernising the council’s plant has been ongoing since the amalgamation in 2008.
‘We have a road system of more than 5000 km in an area of 60 000 square kilometres. Not only are we responsible for the maintenance of our roads but those under state government control.
‘Ageing machines disrupt work schedules by spending too long in the workshop, but these new machines come with technology that lets us know when they need attention so service breaks can be scheduled around downtime.
‘Council has a number of infrastructure projects planned, however roads continue to be an issue for most people. The two major flood events did considerable damage to our road network and we have been playing catch-up with repairs ever since.’
Hastings Deering’s Emerald Sales Manager Mark Hodgson said it was virtually unheard of for a council to buy three graders at once, but we’re confident we can give council the best return on their investment.
‘The new graders are the most automated and productive in their class, delivering improved fuel efficiency, reliability and durability along with enhanced serviceability and safety.
‘The 140M motor-grader delivers 78 per cent less body movement resulting in less operator fatigue, therefore increasing productivity and safety.
‘We have the largest fluids’ analysis laboratory in Australia. Just as people can have a blood test, mechanics can send an oil sample from a machine to the lab where scientists can tell if the engine needs a service or has the potential to break down. Predicting machine failure can save hundreds of thousands of dollars a year.’
Mr Mason added that the new machines would help motivate the workforce.
‘It’s likely that integrating this new technology into the field will motivate the operators and improve the workforce culture.
‘We need reliable machines and reliable staff to do a good job and I expect that the team will step up to match these new reliable, great performing machines and at the same time appreciate features like the cleaner cabin air, the state-of-the-art ergonomics and the intuitive steering and engine throttle control.
‘Today is certainly a noteworthy one in council’s calendar and we’re genuinely pleased at the outcome,’ he concluded.