The Zimbabwe Community of South Australia (ZICOSA) recently launched their solar powered, purpose-built BBQ trailer, which was funded by an SA Power Networks Community Grant.

ZICOSA formed in 2018 and is dedicated to bringing together and engaging with the Zimbabwean community, as well as encouraging multiculturalism in South Australia. 

ZICOSA’s Kennedy Mavunganidze says the initial idea for the BBQ trailer stemmed from the group’s strong involvement in community gatherings and events – sometimes hosting up to 600 people.  

“Culturally, we tend to come together as families as a way of either catching up and supporting each other,” said Kennedy.  

“Community gatherings are so important for us as they encourage positive growth and cultural strength. 

“The trailer is ideal in that we don’t have to find a place where we can cook or who can supply a barbecue when we do meet. 

“It is also equipped with both gas and charcoal barbeque options, so we can cater for all kinds of different cuisines” 

With a membership-base spread across South Australia, ZICOSA can find themselves hosting events all over the State. 

One of the main challenges the group found when running events, especially at parks, beaches, and campsites, was not always having access to power.  

“We wanted to create something that was ‘all-in-one’ – a self-sufficient, mobile powerhouse.”   

Kennedy, who has a Masters Degree in Renewable Energy and has worked in the industry for over 20 years, actually designed the trailer himself, with self-sufficiency and clean energy in mind.  

The trailer is fully equipped with solar panels (fitted on retractable rails on the roof), an inverter and battery bank – meaning they can power themselves no matter where they go.   

“The 24V system consists of two lithium batteries, a 3kW Victron inverter and some balance of system components.  

“The trailer is a game changer for our community. We can use our PA system for music and speeches, and power the trailer’s lights during night-time events, all from our own, self-generated energy.” 

Constructing and implementing an environmentally sustainable trailer was always ZICOSA’s number one goal, and it is something ZICOSA is most proud of.  

“We want our members and the general community to see that you can also use solar power outside of the house.  

“The trailer project is such a great example of clean energy and innovation. We hope our trailer can be a model for other community groups.”  

To learn more about ZICOSA, or to get in touch about their brand-new BBQ trailer, please visit their website ZICOSA Zimbabwe Community of South Australia Adelaide.