On Monday, 20 November, Yarra Ranges Council celebrated the official opening of the Olinda Recreation Reserve Pavilion's state-of-the-art solar and battery system.
The Olinda Recreation Reserve Pavilion now boasts a 44kW solar array paired with a 95kWh battery, capable of providing up to a week of off-grid energy storage.
This significant upgrade comes in response to the disruptive storms in 2021, which highlighted the vulnerability of essential utilities during emergencies.
Yarra Ranges Council Deputy Mayor, David Eastham, emphasised the critical role this innovative system will play in addressing power outages and ensuring the safety and well-being of residents.
"Thank you for being here at Olinda, to recognise the opening of this very important solar and battery. Living here brings with it a lot of power outages, and we've all been there when the power goes out, and it feels like everything comes to a standstill."
"It was a wake-up call, a reminder that we need to be prepared for the unexpected. That's why this project is so crucial. It's not just about having lights on during a blackout; it's about creating a safe space for our community," Deputy Mayor Eastham said.
In addition to ensuring a reliable power supply, the project has enhanced the pavilion's facilities. As part of the initiative, the showers at the pavilion have been upgraded to create a more inclusive and modern space, and the open layout has been replaced by single cubicles, allowing the site to function as a 'shower and power' hub when required.
The project is a collaborative effort between the Olinda Hilltop Recreation Association, Council, and the Australian and State Governments.
Councillor Eastham said the local Association, composed of dedicated sporting and community members, played an instrumental role in advocating for and supporting the construction process.
"This is the latest project where our Government counterparts have provided funding for solar and battery systems."
"The end result is lower running costs, local hubs that can be activated in an emergency, and our community living a bit lighter on the earth."
"I'd like to thank the Australian and State Governments for this crucial funding, the local tradies who installed this system, and our clubs for their patience and support through this process. It's a place I'm very proud we have locally."
