July 2009

Ground mats put on a show

ALTURNAMATS ground protection mats have proved a far better option than the previous method for protecting grassed areas of the Sydney Showground from heavy vehicles and machinery.

The Royal Agricultural Society of NSW (RAS) purchased 65 mats, all 2400mm x  900mm, from Work Smart Equipment, the exclusive distributor of the product in Australia.

They are used on both outdoor areas and inside pavilions at the Showground, which is located at Sydney Olympic Park and is home to the Sydney Royal Easter Show and numerous exhibitions, concerts other and events.

Peter Walters, RAS Asset Services Manager, said the mats were needed all year around, but their biggest test was during the Easter Show, which is held over 14 days and is Australia’s largest annual event.

“Previously, we used large sheets of plywood as protection when vehicles needed to cross or stand on the main arena and other grassed areas,” he said.

“However, the ply was very heavy to handle and also used to sink into the grass. The ground mats are very strong while being light and easy to move around, which means you can get the job done very quickly.

“We used about 12 of them while building the water jump for the equestrian events in the main arena, but in other areas you might use just four of them under the wheels of a truck.

“They are also good for inside pavilions to protect flooring from forklifts, boom lifts and similar machines.”

Work Smart Equipment says ALTURNAMATS provide a perfect solution for temporary roads or paths for vehicles, machinery and pedestrians.

Made from recycled polyethylene, they can take a load of 60 metric tonnes per mat, with the weight distributed equally across the surface.

They are available in four sizes – 1800mm x 900mm, 2400mm x 600mm, 2400mm x 900mm and 2400mm x 1200mm – and can be linked to any required length.