EV charging stations to be set up in Brolga Theatre car park
Six electric vehicle charging stations will be installed in the Brolga Theatre car park in Maryborough.
At its meeting today (Wednesday, 22 May 2024), Fraser Coast Regional Council accepted the tender from NRMA Electric Highways Pty Ltd to lease the six car park spaces for the next 10 years.
Deputy Mayor Paul Truscott said electric vehicles were growing in popularity with almost 10 per cent of new cars now electric and Queensland predicted to have as many as 1.6 million EVs on the road by 2035.
“Electric vehicles offer numerous benefits including reduced fuel costs and higher efficiency, reduced traffic noise and improved air quality,” he said.
“As prices continue to drop and the variety of options increases, electric vehicles are becoming more attractive and viable for motorists.
“Ensuring EV owners have access to fast charging stations is crucial, which is why Council is leasing these spaces to the NRMA to supply, install, operate and maintain the charging infrastructure.”
Cr Truscott said NRMA was Australia’s largest membership organisation with 2.8 million members, and currently has over 100 charging stations in more than 70 locations across the nation.
“Drive tourism is an important market for the Fraser Coast, and having these electric vehicle charging stations will encourage tourists to make a short pit stop to charge up before heading north or south, or to stay longer to explore what our region has to offer,” he said.
“Council is committed to planning for the future, and the installation of these new EV charging stations will be good for the environment and good for our local economy.”
NRMA Energy CEO Carly Irving-Dolan said the NRMA knew the importance of connecting communities, whether in the city or the bush.
“With our expanding network of EV chargers, we empower people to move safely and confidently whenever, wherever they want," she said.
“This site's development is integral to the NRMA's regional highways program, aiming to connect regional towns and centres nationwide, ensuring no one gets left behind."
Following today’s Council decision, the lease agreement will be finalised, and the new charging stations will be installed in the coming months in the top corner of the Brolga Theatre car park near the MV Ella display.