E-Scooter movement progresses for the River City

Published on 18 May 2021

Last month, Rockhampton Regional Council released an ‘Expressions of Interest’ in search for an operator of a hire fleet of E-scooters for the river city.

The EOI has generated interest from six operators who manage E-scooter fleets in a variety of countries around the world.

Rockhampton Region Mayor Tony Williams said it’s great to see such experienced E-scooter operators putting Rocky on their radar.

“These E-scooters will be a great addition to our city and will offer the ability to move between our business and sporting precincts with ease,” Mayor Williams said.

“Whilst there are still a number of steps before the E-scooters will be delivered to Rockhampton, we are hopeful of a fleet by the end of 2021.

“Initially the scooters will be set up for a trial period with any restricted or go-slow areas geo-fenced by the operator’s technology.

“We will collaborate and negotiate with the selected operator to determine the ideal amount of scooters to commence the trial.

“As the interest and use of the E-scooters grows, the number of scooters will too.

“An important pre-requisite set by Rockhampton Regional Council is that the operator must employ locals to manage, operate and maintain the fleet.”

Advance Rockhampton Executive Manager, Mr Greg Bowden, said E-scooters have stamped their mark as a positive addition in a number of cities across Queensland and Australia.

“The E-scooters and micro mobility movement is increasing in popularity around the world and across Australia,” Mr Bowden said. 

“Cities including Brisbane, Adelaide, Canberra, Darwin, Melbourne, Townsville, and soon Rockhampton have realised the benefits of an electric hire fleet.

“Some of these benefits include:

• An alternative to public transport replacing short bus trips and an alternative to getting to and from the workplace;
• An economic growth tool connecting business and leisure precincts;
• Reduces car trips creating a sustainable outcome ; and
• An additional leisure option for residents and visitors to spend time outdoors.

“The Advance Rockhampton team continue to work towards putting ‘Rocky on the Radar’ and the addition of an E-scooter fleet shows our commitment towards creating new opportunities for all residents and visitors to enjoy the region.”