In September, Ararat residents were invited to learn about the latest range of affordable, simple and easy to implement sustainable living solutions at the first ever Ararat Environment Day.
Located approximately 200 kilometres west of Melbourne, Ararat Rural City Council is the gateway to the Grampians Wine Region. As part of its ongoing commitment to create the greenest municipality, Council conducted the event in partnership with sustainable utility company Earth Utility, and solar products manufacturer Chromagen Solar Australia.
Sustainable energy experts, as well as local businesses providing energy and water saving solutions, took part in the event. They showcased products and offered information on a variety of sustainable living solutions such as waste management, drought proof plants, water saving solutions and environmentally friendly beauty products. Through an interactive display, residents were also able to measure their household’s carbon footprint and receive a free energy
light bulb courtesy of Council.
Free entertainment included a jumping castle and other kids activities, a sausage sizzle and music by local bands. Ararat Rural City Mayor, Councillor Ian Wilson, said it was a fun family event, encouraging residents to learn ways to reduce their individual impact on the environment.
“With global warming high on the agenda, Council wants to make sure residents have all the information they need to make a bigger difference in their home or business for a more sustainable future,” he said.
Leading by example, Council is installing solar hot water services in many of its buildings, including the YMCA, Ararat Performing Arts Centre, Gum San Chinese Heritage Centre, municipal offices and at several ovals.
The switch will save Council money on its energy bills and reduce emissions by up to 40 per cent. Earth Utility is currently offering Ararat residents the opportunity to switch to solar and save. Earth Utility’s approach removes the initial financial outlay, which can be up to $6,000 to supply and install a solar hot water system. Earth Utility will own and maintain the system and the customer pays a flat quarterly fee. More than 100 residents have taken up the offer over the last month. For further information on what Ararat Rural City Council is doing to become ‘greener’, contact Mark Hogan, Council’s Manager Rural City Development, on (03) 5355 0276.
