Council crews dig in on drainage maintenance

Townsville City Council crews are focusing on drain maintenance in the lead-up to the region’s traditional wet season.

Infrastructure Services Committee chairperson Kurt Rehbein said Council had a dedicated crew that focused on the maintenance and cleaning of our city’s drainage network.

“With around 160 kilometres of drains across Townsville, the crew certainly have their work cut out for them,” Cr Rehbein said.

“Drains can come in all shapes and sizes, from grass fields and easements to concrete-lined open channels, so the maintenance each drain requires varies.

“Drainage maintenance can be as simple as ensuring the area around drains is mowed or can be as extensive as repairing scours and removing debris by bobcat or excavator.

“The drains across the city are regularly inspected, with cleans done as required, and the high-risk drains cleaned at least twice a year. As the wet season approaches, it is important that our city’s drainage networks are clear of debris and work as intended.”

With the implementation of a revised open drain maintenance program, Council crews are now undertaking maintenance works more efficiently, ensuring Townsville’s 160 kilometres of open drainage network operates more effectively.

Council’s scheduled maintenance focuses on identifying which drains are more prone to blockages and ensuring they are inspected multiple times throughout the year.

“This program is far more efficient, ensuring Council is able to forecast where our crew is scheduled to be and when drains are to be assessed next,” Cr Rehbein said.

“Council’s revised drainage maintenance program has identified which drains need more inspection and maintenance than others and is a prime example of how we can continue to deliver for Townsville more efficiently.”