From Mitcham to Monarto
City of Mitcham’s street sweeper brushes are finding a new home at Monarto Safari Park where they are used as scratching posts by rhinos, zebras and horses.
The second-hand brushes are being sent to the zoo instead of landfill as part of Mitcham’s commitment to sustainability.
Monarto Zoo Keeper Lisa Morrison said the brushes were being used by ungulate species – Przewalski’s horses, zebras and rhinos, who had “responded really positively”.
“These animals naturally seek out textured surfaces for rubbing and scratching, especially during seasonal coat changes or when managing skin irritation,” she said. “The brushes offer a safe and satisfying outlet for those behaviours. Scratching offers both physical and psychological benefits.”
There are plans to trial the brushes with elephants and chimpanzees as well as tortoises as part of the park’s rotating enrichment program, which aims to keep the environment stimulating and responsive to the animals’ changing needs.
"It’s been wonderful to see how something as simple as a recycled street sweeper brush can spark curiosity, comfort, and natural behaviour across such a diverse range of species. It’s a great reminder that sustainability and animal welfare can go hand in hand."
The city’s street sweeper brushes have also been donated to the Minton Farm Animal Rescue Centre in Cherry Gardens.
“The animals love them – the sheep, pig and ponies all have a good rub on them,” Farm owner Bev Langley said.