Anne Parisianne
In an innovative twist to vegetation management, the team working on the Mickleham Road Upgrade stage 1 has enlisted a trio of goats to deal with the grass and weed problem on the site.
The Greenvale site, troubled by nuisance plants, now benefits from the appetite of a crew of goats, offering a sustainable and eco-friendly solution to what had been a nagging issue.
The goats, adept at navigating rocky terrains unsuitable for traditional mowing or slashing, have taken charge of a 400 sqm area.
Their munching not only controls the vegetation but also mitigates fire and snake hazards, making the site safer for staff.
This method effectively sidelines the need for herbicides, contributing positively to the environment.
This unique approach aligns with the Big Build initiative, aiming for reduced emissions and better environmental outcomes.
The idea sprouted from the mind of Radley Schofield, an environmental advisor with BMD Group, a construction partner on the project.
Mr Schofield pointed out the goats’ superior ability to consume woody weeds over sheep.
“The goats are doing a great job keeping grass and weeds down, which reduces fire and snake risks while also removing the need to use herbicides. They’re also good for morale, with our team members enjoying the goats’ presence at the compound,” he said.
The goats will remain part of the project until its completion in mid-2025, with a plan to find them a new home afterward.
Their introduction has not only solved a practical problem but also brought a unique dynamic to the worksite.
Major Road Projects Victoria program director, Adrian Furner said, “The use of goats to control grass and weeds at our site compound is an example of the sustainable and environmentally friendly thinking we encourage on the Mickleham Road Upgrade – Stage 1.”
The stage 1 project will widen the road between Somerton Road and Dellamore Boulevard. The project includes replacing a roundabout with a traffic light intersection, adding priority bus lanes, building a new traffic light intersection at Aitken College and expanding walking and cycling paths.
The second stage plans to upgrade Mickleham Road between Dellamore Boulevard and Craigieburn Road are being developed.
