New digger on the job

A NEW excavator has arrived in Golden Plains Shire to assist work clearing blocked drains.

A municipal spokesperson said the Komatsu PC78 excavator will play an important role in clearing drains which were blocked following record rainfall at the end of last year which subsequently contributed to localised flooding.

Two full-time road maintenance staff have also been employed by the Shire to operate the excavator and clear the overgrown and blocked areas, beginning in the communities most effected.

Mayor Cr Brett Cunningham said improving drainage across the region was a current focus for the roads, drainage and town maintenance team.

“We saw the impact of that severe weather last year, particularly around drainage, and we have made a commitment to residents to clear out drains and ensure the Shire is better prepared for the colder, wetter months ahead,” he said.

“The Komatsu PC78 excavator is an impressive piece of equipment, and we are excited to see the new team members get to work on clearing out roadside drains which will contribute to better and safer roads.”

A total of $2.7 million has been allocated to road repairs and maintenance in next financial year’s draft budget, with a further $3.4 million proposed for general road maintenance.