Flinders Shire is helping to energise the world after officially joining the Queensland’s Electric Super Highway today.
Hughenden’s first fast-charging station for electric vehicles (EVs) is now operational and located on Brodie Street in the town, which is located 386km west of Townsville.
To celebrate the launch, the charging station is also free to the public for a limited time.
The Queensland Electric Super Highway is a series of fast-charging electric vehicle stations being rolled out at locations right up the Queensland coast and inland, stretching from the Gold Coast to Cairns to encourage the uptake of electric vehicles in Queensland.
Mayor Jane McNamara said the region is proud to partner in rolling out a program to see Queensland be among the world’s best electric super charger highways.
“Flinders Shire has stepped foot into the future by providing an environmentally-friendly transport option, particularly when charged from renewable energy,” Cr McNamara said.
“We recently launched our major Visit Hughenden tourism campaign, and now there is even greater incentive for tourists to visit our amazing part of the world.
“While people charge their cars, they can enjoy a coffee or browse Hughenden’s shops, or catch up on emails soaking up the free Wifi at the library.
“Electric cars are a growing market and the transport option of the future, and we’re delighted to be able to bring this option to our region.
“Having a charging station in Hughenden not only incentivises future EV users, but it also encourages driving tourism, especially from our neighbours in Townsville.”
Electric vehicle ownership rates around the world are increasing, largely due to significant advances in battery technology and continued cost reductions in EVs.
"Flinders Shire Council is committed to a renewable energy future and we recognise the importance of working closely with Federal and State Government to enable projects such as the Queensland Electric Super Highway to become reality," Cr McNamara said.
"The Queensland Electric Super Highway has the potential to revolutionise the way we will travel around Queensland into the future, and Flinders Shire very much wants to be a part of that future.”