A spectacular laser light show about the history of the Murray River was made possible by solid teamwork at the Swan Hill Rural City Council (SHRCC).
Located on the banks of the Murray River, the rural municipality has a population of 20,000 and is known for its agricultural richness – it is an important part of the flourishing “food bowl” region of Victoria.
Tourism is also an important industry for the area and a major drawcard for visitors is the Pioneer Settlement – a theatrical pioneer town, which has been operating since 1966.
Owned and managed by Council, the settlement recently gained an additional attraction – the ‘Heartbeat of the Murray Experience’, a $3.85million sound and light show.
Tony Jenkins, General Manager of the Pioneer Settlement, said the implementation of the project was assisted by exceptional staff teamwork.
“I am very proud to have had the opportunity to head up this major project and lead such a terrific team,” Mr Jenkins told Local Government Focus.
Swan Hill Councillor Gary Newton nominated the Pioneer Settlement Team as ‘High Achievers’ for their work on the project.
The show runs every night at the Pioneer Settlement and is considered a world-first in the way it combines laser technology with the natural surroundings.
“We were looking for a new “night” product to compliment our day and river product and the concept of ‘The Heartbeat of the Murray Laser Spectacular’ was born,” said Mr Jenkins.
“The history of the Murray River, from creation through to current times, including the dreamtime story, fitted perfectly into our theme of pioneers.
“The interpretation method that has been specially designed and implemented, to relay that story, is totally unique – again setting Pioneer Settlement up as a forerunner in tourism.”
Mr Jenkins said the outcome was really due to support across the whole of Council.
“When the project was completed it was good to stand back and take note of the fantastic outcome that had been achieved by the team.
“In doing so, it was evident that nearly all SHRCC departments had input into the project somewhere. Whether it was through the grant applications, planning, appointment of contractors, development or implementation stages – this really has been a team effort all round.”
Mr Jenkins said the project ran smoothly throughout.
“The only major challenge was the construction of a purpose built amphitheatre and installation of major equipment at the same time, to allow sufficient timing for programming of the show and testing of new equipment before the go live date.
“The project was well managed throughout and I’m pleased to say the careful planning, team work and leadership throughout the whole project kept everything on track for a positive outcome.
“The successful appointment of Laservision, an Australian based company focusing on International Mega Media Installations was a key to the success of the ‘Heartbeat of the Murray’ project.”
On the back of the work on this project, a local Swan Hill plumbing company has secured a contract to assist Laservision with a similar installation project in Dubai.
The project will be an ongoing boon for the community, said Mr Jenkins.
“‘The “Heartbeat of the Murray’ will continue to add significant value to the Swan Hill regional tourism, and regional economy, for decades to come.
“The design of the project, method of interpretation and state-of-the-art special effects allows for the story line to grow, and changes to come in to play, that can continually redefine the production as unique and relevant.”
The project has already received a 2016 National Local Government Category award for regional growth, along with a Silver award in the regional Tourism Awards 2016.
“I’d just like to thank the team for their input and I am sure they are as proud as I am of the outcome achieved,” added Mr Jenkins.
