Council last month increased its mowing resources to take full advantage of the sunshine in February following the 19 days of rain in January.
The deluge of water spurred faster-than-normal grass growth across local parks, sporting fields, and footpaths, while also significantly impacting the Council’s ability to mow these areas.
Mowing crews are now working longer hours and on weekends and additional staff have been brought in to get the city’s mowing schedule back on track after more than 220 millimetres of rain fell across January, smashing the monthly rainfall average of around 78 millimetres.
Ipswich City Council Chief Executive Officer Sonia Cooper said January’s persistent rainfall not only made mowing the city a challenge but was potentially dangerous for council staff attempting to mow while the ground was still wet and boggy.
“We have seen a combination of significant rainfall and very humid and hot conditions accelerate the speed at which grass is growing. At the same time, we are unable to mow during rainy weather as it can be dangerous for staff and damage our machinery,” Ms Cooper said.
“Now that we are starting to see finer conditions in February and the ground is drying out, Council is directing significant resources to get our mowing schedule back on track.
“This includes mowing teams working longer hours, on weekends, and we have also brought in additional contingent staff to make the most of the sunnier weather we are experiencing in February.
“Staff from suitable council teams are also being redirected to assist our crews to ensure mowing services can return to normal as soon as possible.
“I certainly understand the inconvenience this has caused our community. However, I can reassure residents that as long as the sun is shining council will have all available resources out mowing our city.”
Ms Cooper said working in extremely hot and humid conditions had also significantly impacted council’s mowing crews.
“Fatigue management is in place for our teams as they have consistently been working overtime and weekends amidst the changing weather conditions, as well as assisting with storm clean up,” Ms Cooper said.
“Councils across South East Queensland are all grappling with the same challenge of juggling hot weather, rain and storms. I am hoping we see some consistent weather returning to the region as we work hard to bring our parks and footpaths back to our normal standards.”
