Joint effort to correct Lights for Lake teething issues

Inspections of the Lights for Lake project and community feedback have shone a light on some teething issues.

Wagga Wagga City Council, Committee 4 Wagga and supplier of the solar lights Green Frog Systems are working together to implement solutions to address the issues.

The lights, which stretch the 5.5kms around the Lake Albert walking track, have been embraced by the Wagga Wagga community since installed in March.

Manager Project Operations Bruce Sheridan said it was not uncommon for a new project to encounter some issues early on, and, solutions were now being worked through.

“The main concern raised has been around some of the lights not working properly,” Mr Sheridan said.

“There are a number of reasons why this has been occurring, including the weather, the lights are solar lights and require sun to charge them and the lower winter sun.

“Surprisingly, the high amount of traffic from walkers and cyclists has also contributed to the lights losing power quickly.”

The lights are programmed and come on and switch off at certain times. They are also set to dim and brighten when movement from a pedestrian or cyclist is detected. This consistent activation requires more power and will drain the harvested solar power more rapidly.

“The number of people enjoying the benefits of the lights is far greater than first expected. We are pleased that residents are making the most of the lights, and we are now in the process of improving the project to ensure this active use continues,” Mr Sheridan said.

Committee 4 Wagga Chair Judy Galloway echoed this view, saying all parties were working together to achieve positive solutions to ensure the best operation of the lights for the Wagga Wagga community.

Tree pruning along the Lake Albert walking track was initially included in the project. With the colder weather this is now being undertaken.

Long-term solutions are currently being worked through by all parties and could include revised programming of the on and off times and changes to the orientation of some of the solar panels.

“Our aim is to deliver the best project possible for the Wagga Wagga community and thank them for their patience as we work through these issues,” Mr Sheridan said.

Lights for Lake was a community project consisting of the installation of 104 light poles around Lake Albert. Each pole was sponsored by community members, groups or organisations. The project was delivered by Committee 4 Wagga, with assistance provided by the City of Wagga Wagga.