Council’s Operations Team has taken a significant step forward in enhancing efficiency, sustainability, and cost-effectiveness through open drain initiatives aimed at strengthening in-house capabilities whilst delivering improved infrastructure.
Open drains still exist in areas across the municipality, creating safety risks, environmental hazards, and labour and cost-intensive maintenance.
The Zeehan Operations crew were recently successful in closing open drains in Tarleton Street, Zeehan – completed in-house using existing resources, with the area to be finished off with a layer of topsoil and spread with grass seed.
The Tarleton Street project demonstrated the positive impact of strengthening in-house capabilities, with the team able to build stronger relationships with suppliers and use existing inventory, including headwalls, to clear stock and release tied-up capital.
With a small budget, more open drain works will be rolled out as materials are sourced, with HDPE materials to be used for their durability and suitability. There is no set plan on how many will be completed at this stage.
This approach reflects a commitment to:
- Optimal Resource Utilization: Making the most of available inventory to reduce waste and free up capital.
- Best Engineering Practices: Adopting fit-for-purpose materials and solutions that enhance long-term performance.
- Capacity Building: Empowering the internal workforce with skills and tools to manage operations more independently.
- Cost Management: Implementing low-cost, sustainable solutions that reduce ongoing maintenance expenses and support a more balanced operational budget.
These efforts underscore the team’s dedication to continuous improvement, innovation, and responsible resource management through planning and collaboration.
