A simple but innovative idea is delivering significant environmental and operational benefits for our street sweeping operations.

Two creative staff members saw an opportunity to improve the way street sweepers are serviced with the installation of a rainwater fill point at Council’s Cromer Depot.

The new system allows street sweeper drivers to access harvested rainwater directly from the depot, eliminating the need to spend time locating and accessing public hydrants across the local area.

The result is a solution that saves money, conserves valuable resources and improves productivity.

The benefits are substantial including:

• Reduction in operating costs 
• 1,820 kilolitres of water saved
• 11 tonnes less of CO₂ emissions 
• 780 street sweeper driver hours previously spent travelling to and accessing public hydrants regained

Street sweeping is an essential service that helps remove litter, sediment and pollutants before they enter stormwater systems and local waterways, contributing to clean, safe and attractive streets.

What started as an idea has become a tangible example of innovation in action and demonstrates how small improvements can have a big impact.