Linfox has completed what it claims is one of the biggest moves in Australia’s elephant history.
Linfox was recently entrusted to safely relocate nine Asian elephants from Melbourne Zoo to Werribee Open Range Zoo, a 40-kilometre journey which was more than two years in the making.
Linfox repurposed seven 20’ containers to construct specifically designed and fabricated crates for the nine elephants to travel in.
A unique gating system was used to allow the calves to travel alongside their mothers for comfort and reassurance.
According to Linfox, this ensured the highest level of care was provided.
One of the containers was 4.4 metres high and required a specialised trailer to accommodate Luk Chai, the first elephant to be born in Australia and a father to three calves within the herd.
A specific air conditioning system was also installed on the trailer combinations to ensure comfort and safety throughout their journeys.
In addition, cameras were utilised to carefully monitor the vehicles.
Linfox worked with authorities such as the Department of Transport and Planning, Transurban, Victoria Police and the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR) to obtain necessary travel permits and to plan the optimal route.
This process ensured a smooth journey, with a green light corridor also facilitating uninterrupted travel.
“This was a really coordinated effort,” said Linfox Compliance Manager, Michael Stephenson.
“Moving elephants may seem like a nerve-racking process, but the way it was all coordinated across all teams was incredible.
“Everyone was focused on getting it done smoothly and safely.”
Linfox’s involvement in the project arose due to a strong relationship between Paula Fox and Zoos Victoria.
It required extensive planning which included sourcing the appropriate driver and constructing adequate trailers to hold the elephants in.
Linfox Fleet Manager for Special Projects, Mick Best, was one of the drivers chosen for the job.
He has been with Linfox since 1992.
“Linfox is proud to have been trusted by Zoos Victoria to relocate nine Asian elephants to Werribee Open Range Zoo,” Best said.
“Through collective efforts, the move went smoothly and the elephants can now enjoy their new 21-hectare habitat.”
Linfox President of Fleet and Procurement, Ray Gamble, said Best’s experience was critical for the transport task.
“Mick’s experience in transporting large animals including the delivery of Amani the giraffe in 2004, and the first big elephant move in 2006, was instrumental in the success of this operation,” he said.
The entire project involved three Volvo FH prime movers and three drivers.
In other news, Linfox has announced a new national transport contract and fleet investment.
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