Australia’s first electric powered ground roller put to use at The Gabba

In an Australian first, Brisbane venue The Gabba has introduced an electric/solar powered roller for use by its groundskeeping team that is now in use for the preparation of turf wickets.

Unlike traditional rollers, the electric roller is quiet, emissions-free, removes the risk of oil or fluid leaks on the wicket, will run for 30 or more hours on a full charge, and has solar panels to provide a continuous trickle charge so that it will have limited time connected to traditional power sources.

Expecting the new roller to be a game changer, The Gabba Grounds Manager, David Sandurski explained “moving away from traditional machinery can be challenging in the turf world, but after seeing and hearing the electric roller in action, we hold great expectations for this unit.

“This roller is pretty much silent, has no emissions or fumes, and a range of features which will make the hours on the roller far more comfortable and safe for the team.”

Stadiums Queensland Chief Executive Todd Harris said investment in the new technology reflected Stadiums Queensland’s focus on making business operations more sustainable.

Harris noted “sustainability is an increasingly important focus for our fans, hirers and stakeholders and we continue to investigate more environmentally friendly practices and products such as this right across our business.

“We’re really pleased to have found a way to continue the traditional practices that have made The Gabba and it’s wicket great, with less impact on both the environment and our staff.”

Images: The Gabba's electric/solar powered roller that its groundskeeping team will use to prepare turf wickets.