Queensland Rail, the Australian rail operator, has embarked on an innovative and environmentally friendly approach to managing vegetation along its railway lines, as reported by the railway portal Railway Supply, citing railway-technology.

Queensland Rail's Green Initiative

Taking inspiration from Melbourne’s Metro network, Queensland Rail has enlisted a herd of 15 goats to tackle hazardous overgrowth near Tully railway station in Far North Queensland.

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Scott Cornish, the head of regional operations at Queensland Rail, emphasizes the safety and eco-friendly nature of using goats for vegetation control.

He notes that the goats bring a unique set of skills, adept at navigating challenging terrains that heavy machinery often struggles to access.

The trial area, approximately one acre near Tully station, has been identified as an ideal location to assess the goats’ effectiveness in keeping weeds at bay and rendering invasive weed seeds non-viable.

While this initiative marks Queensland Rail’s first venture into utilizing animals for vegetation management, the concept has been previously employed by the Melbourne Metro network in 2019.

The decision to employ goats arose after Queensland Rail engaged in discussions with NQ Vegetation Management (Norveg), discovering that Norveg had its own herd and had successfully implemented similar trials elsewhere.

Addressing concerns about safety, Norveg owner Christina Forrest reassures the public that the goats’ well-being is closely monitored.

With the ability to remotely check on the goats’ conditions, water supply, and the functionality of the electric fence, safety remains a top priority throughout the vegetation management process.

The goats have not only captured the attention of locals but have also gained popularity online. Initially hired on an eight-week contract, Queensland Rail expresses openness to extending the goats’ contract beyond the trial period in Tully.

This initiative not only serves as a creative solution to vegetation management but also highlights the importance of sustainable and eco-friendly practices within the realm of railway operations.

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