You would not believe what's been causing some FNQ blackouts
Energy network
Plenty of Douglas Shire blackouts have been blamed on car accidents and extreme weather events, but have you ever heard of a power cut due to fast-growing bamboo?
Electricity company Ergon Energy released a statement this week that there have been close to 70 bamboo-related power outages in the Far North Queensland region in the past year, which takes in the Mossman and Dimbulah areas.
Network area manager Rick Madden urged people not to plant the wrong undergrowth near powerlines, which could even endanger lives.
“Bamboo is one of the worst offenders because it grows incredibly quickly and can easily reach and touch powerlines,” Mr Madden said.
“What many people don’t realise is that bamboo can actually conduct electricity.
“We’ve had reports of people receiving electric shocks after bamboo they were touching came into contact with live powerlines.”
Mr Madden said gardeners should carefully consider what they plant near powerlines and other electrical assets.
“There are plenty of safe options that won’t put your family or your neighbours at risk.”
Before you plant anything, stay safe by: Avoiding planting bamboo and other fast-growing species; Regularly checking existing plants for growth, and; using ergon.com.au/plantsmart to help choose safe, suitable trees and shrubs.
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