Community still split over lake lighting

FRIENDS of Lake Wendouree Natural Environment met at the water’s edge last week on the group’s third anniversary, opposing hundreds of proposed State-funded lights along its pedestrian track.

Wendouree Parade resident Gail Hirst said progress could “destroy” the “beauty and wellbeing” of the lake.

“The expansive views to the water under this planning application will be segmented, dissected and compartmentalised by ugly poles,” she said.

“Sunrise and sunset will never be the same, the flora and fauna will be compromised, in some cases severely, and ironically, those who jog under the lights will not be able to enjoy the heritage of the environs because only the track will be visible.

“Surely, we have learnt from the manmade disaster of climate change that we should treat the earth gently, that more artificial intrusions into a wetland that has nurtured wonderful flora and fauna for hundreds of years will accelerate the incremental creep to a sterile landscape?”

The Field Naturalists’ Club of Ballarat’s Bill Elder is also a member of the advocacy group. He said the project could have “deleterious effects” on wildlife and flora calling the lake home.

“The damage that is likely to occur to established trees by placing electrical cables underground and through the root zone of trees will probably result in the loss of trees,” he said.

“Nothing about the proposal is logical, sensible, cost-effective, or environmentally friendly.”

However, opposition to the project was in no way unanimous, with other users of the space supportive of the plans.

One of the six founders of advocacy group Supporters of the Lake Wendouree Lighting Project, Arthur Shaw has been lobbying for the lighting for years.

“Frustrated,” he has found his endurance running difficult in the dark months of the year, and in poor daylight.

“It became a safety and usability issue. There are claims that people can wear headlamps and torches, but they’re dangerous and bright for people coming towards you who are shielding against the light,” he said.

“Many women with their dogs go walking and just don’t feel safe doing that in the dark, so it’s restrictive for them. More runners are on the cycling path on the road, causing a secondary safety issue in path of cyclists.”

Mr Shaw has seen the counter argument surrounding the natural environment’s flora and fauna. He said usability of the lake has increased with Ballarat’s population boom, and that “wildlife will adjust.”

“The birds and wildlife have adapted to city living over decades, with noise and light pollution.

“What’s being proposed is over the path, doesn’t illuminate outwards to cause light pollution in the horizon, so it’s a bit of a futile argument that wildlife will be impacted when traffic over the decades has increased tenfold,” he said.

The potential to run community events at darker times will increase “with the safety of lighting” according to the Supporters of the Lake Wendouree Lighting.

“It’s the heart of Ballarat. By being illuminated in those limited hours, it supports winter tourism and can be used by those who want to go for a walk or run,” Mr Shaw said.

“We’ve had the funds secured and sitting there through our lobbying. In the context of the 1800 people that did give feedback on this project, there was overwhelming support for this as a number one priority for the lake precinct.

“Those that have responded have voiced their opinion and have said, ‘we want this project’.”

If the lighting gets Heritage Victoria’s approval, it will then go to City of Ballarat for their approval, before a tender process begins. Installation works could start in early-2022.

Member for Wendouree Juliana Addison said the project is worth $2.5 million.

“Upgrading and lighting the Steve Moneghetti Track at Lake Wendouree is to improve safety and make the track accessible from before the sunrises to after the sun sets,” she said.

“Lake Wendouree is used by many community members including our elite runners, committed joggers and those who opt for a light stroll.

“By providing lighting and four outdoor gym installations, we are ensuring more people can access the lake for free fitness for longer. This is a great outcome for the community.”