A new waste truck custom-made for K’gari/Fraser Island has been rolled out to the public.
REMONDIS Australia says the $1 million vehicle is one of the most complex waste trucks in the country to operate in an unforgiving collection location.
The Iveco Astra 8-wheel-drive front-lift truck recently started collecting camp site waste on behalf of the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service (QPWS).
REMONDIS Australia Bulk Logistics and Remediation Operations Manager Andy Heironymus says their state-of-the-art truck will operate with the utmost care for the environment.
“We pride ourselves on devising tailor-made waste management solutions across the globe; this is up there with the best,” Andy says.
“… A lot of people wouldn’t know how difficult it is to move a truck across an area where mother nature can be ruthless,” he adds.
“We’re talking about the world’s biggest sand island, with powdery sand, irregular terrain and rocks that would strand or ruin any standard truck.”
He also points out that the island is a high-salt environment with extreme weather like violent storms and flash flooding.
“That’s why our truck has special features including advanced rust protection, wide wheels and automatic tyre pressure variation technology for transitioning between different surfaces,” he explains.
“Advanced satellite communication gear is installed because of the island’s limited connectivity.”
WASTE TRUCK DRIVER
Driver Mick McMahon has decades of experience including of local conditions and had to undergo advanced training on the truck.
“Collecting waste from the island is light years beyond driving along sealed suburban roads,” Mick says.
“That includes getting the truck from our mainland depot to Inskip, where it’s put on a barge and ferried to the island, up to four days a week.”
He says safety, environmental protection and time management concerns are paramount on his trips.
“I tend to spot requirements, such as removing waste left on beaches. There are all sorts of contingencies, which can include staying a night if bad weather results in delays or safety risks,” he says.
“The truck also needs to be washed down many times a week to avoid rust setting in.”
REMONDIS Australia says it has a long-term deal with QPWS for waste collection on the island as well as for the Inskip Peninsula Recreation Area and the Cooloola section of Great Sandy National Park.
OTHER K’GARI/FRASER ISLAND NEWS: Safety reminder goes out to visitors
