Public lighting along the Elliott Heads foreshore has been minimised through the use of smart technology as part of the Reducing Urban Glow project.
Bundaberg Regional Council environment portfolio spokesperson Cr Wayne Honor said the updates had been applied to all Council-owned lighting along the foreshore.
“The Elliott Heads foreshore lighting upgrade identified that lighting in the area could be dimmed and, where appropriate, turned off completely at certain times,” Cr Honor said.
“This provides a balance between the competing lighting requirements of wildlife, residents and visitors.
“It also brings this area under the Reducing Urban Glow umbrella.”
Cr Honor said similar lighting improvements had been made in areas like Bargara through the Reducing Urban Glow project.
“Lighting on all Council assets and infrastructure, such as barbecue and picnic shelters, the hall, kiosk, amenities blocks and the holiday park, have been improved with a combination of shields, timers and sensors,” he said.
“This helps to direct light downwards and of course, where sensors and timers are in place, will turn them off completely when not in use.
“Council-owned lighting along footpaths and streets and in carparks are now operated under a smart lighting management system that allows for lights to be operated at lower illumination levels.”
Divisional representative Cr Tanya McLoughlin said the move had been supported by community members who approached Council about their desire to see less lighting along the coastal strip.
“While the changes have already been rolled out, based on data collection and community feedback, it may be further refined over time to reach the best outcome for both the public and environment,” Cr McLoughlin said.
“We thank residents for their support as we go through this process and find balance between lighting that supports our community and protects the environment.”
Recently, many Councillors joined project officers to walk the foreshore and inspect the Elliott Heads lighting upgrade.
This Bundaberg Regional Council project is supported by the Australian Government under round two of the Smart Cities and Suburbs Program, as well as project partners that include the Queensland Department of Environment and Science, Ergon Energy, Burnett Mary Regional Group, CQUniversity, Greenfleet on behalf of The Prince’s Trust Australia, Bundaberg Tourism, and the Sea Turtle Alliance.
