YARRA RANGES: Upgrades at 21 sites across Shire
Yarra Ranges Council has successfully completed a landmark $6 million resilience project, upgrading 21 key community sites with solar panels, batteries, generator plug-in points, LED lighting, and HVAC systems.
With funding from the Federal Government’s Preparing Australian Communities grant, the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program, and the State Government’s Growing Suburbs Fund, this combined investment has strengthened emergency preparedness, reduced emissions, and lowered energy costs—delivering long-term benefits for communities across the Yarra Ranges.
Mayor, Cr Jim Child, described the project as a game-changer for community resilience, providing vital infrastructure to support residents during extreme weather events.
“We’ve seen first hand the impact of storms, bushfires, and power outages on our communities,” Cr Child said.
“These upgrades mean local halls, sporting pavilions, and community centres can now act as emergency hubs—offering power, light, and a safe place to gather when it matters most.”
Project highlights include Monbulk Microgrid and the Healesville Resilience Hub.
Some 21 sites now have generator plug-in points, doubling the number of locations that can connect to backup power.