Golden Plains Shire Council has worked with two neighbouring Shires to establish a Long-Range Wide Area Network (LoRaWAN). Residents, farmers and agricultural groups can connect to the network for free after purchasing monitoring sensors.
In 2022, Golden Plains, Moorabool and Hepburn Shire Councils received funding from the State Government’s Rural Council Transformation Program Round 2 funding program. The funding helped create the LoRaWAN Internet of Things (IoT) network across the three Shires which facilitates the connection of IoT sensors.
People can purchase sensors from various vendors and connect them to the network to monitor actions including water levels, electric fences, gates, vehicle traffic and rainfall. Golden Plains has installed seven connection gateways across the Shire with the aim of providing full coverage to all areas.
Golden Plains Shire Council Mayor Cr Brett Cunningham said the innovative technology helps residents monitor potential problems on their properties.
“The great aspect of this technology is that the monitors let people know if there’s a problem with their water supply or a problem with their electric fence through a mobile app or dashboard. They can then act quickly to address the problem,” Cr Cunningham said.
“This network is free to use, and the sensors are small and affordable. Some sensors can run for over five years on AA batteries,” he said.
“Council is really excited to offer this technology and we encourage those interested to learn more about it through Council’s website.”
There may be areas throughout the Shire without optimum LoRaWAN coverage. Council cannot guarantee 24/7 operation or specific availability of the network. Before purchasing LoRaWAN sensors, please speak with the supplier for advice.
To learn more and download the Smart Shires Fact Sheet, visit goldenplains.vic.gov.au/resident/smart-shires-network or contact Golden Plains Shire Council ICT Project Officer Peter Fisher by email at [email protected] or call 5220 7111.