Solar panels for Ross Creek reserve

ROSS Creek Recreation Reserve Committee has been allocated a fifteen-thousand-dollar Stronger Communities Program grant from the Federal Government to install solar panels on the roof of its hall and meeting room.

The committee will soon install the panels and battery storage, aiming to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions.

Member for Ballarat Catherine King, also the Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government, visited the reserve last week to congratulate the committee.

“We sincerely thank Minister King for her continued support of grassroots initiatives,” said Ross Creek Recreation Reserve Committee president Paul Ryan.

“Her commitment to regional sustainability projects helps build stronger, future-ready communities across the country.

“The committee also extends its appreciation to the Golden Plains Shire for its ongoing support and collaboration, which continues to help grow and empower the Ross Creek/Smythes Creek community.

“This initiative reflects a broader commitment to future-proofing local infrastructure, fostering community resilience and environmental stewardship.”

The committee has an aim for the reserve to be a community asset where more locals can connect, socialise and get active.

With electricity bill savings from the panel, the committee aims to buy another heater so they can rent the building out in winter.

The hall and meeting room are already used by Landcare, tennis and cricket groups.

Ross Creek’s 2025–2029 Community Planning process is underway, and the committee is encouraging all residents to contribute. A survey will be distributed via letterboxes and will be online on the Golden Plains Shire website in late August.

New community members are welcome to join the committee.