Montville is a jewel of the Sunshine Coast hinterland, yet its primary public park was underutilised once the sun went down. Local community groups identified a clear need to improve the night-time appeal of the space, transforming it from a dark thoroughfare into a safe and inviting destination for evening gatherings.
The challenge was to deliver a lighting solution that created vibrancy without disrupting the sensitive hinterland ecosystem or polluting the night sky.
POMO was engaged to bridge the gap between community aspiration and technical delivery. We aligned this project with an existing Council-sponsored electrical upgrade, ensuring maximum efficiency of public funds. By integrating our creative program with the Council’s infrastructure works, we delivered a high-value outcome that minimised disruption and cost.
Our role extended beyond selecting fixtures to designing a complete schematic and detailed lighting control system. We focused on “Implementation” by specifying technology that met strict environmental and operational criteria.
We specified We-Ef DMX controlled spotlights, a premium solution known for precision and durability. These units are controlled by an Australian-made DMX system that allows for programmed sequences, enabling the lighting to adapt to different community activities and events throughout the year.
A critical technical requirement was minimising light spill to protect local nocturnal wildlife. We engineered the design to be fully compliant with Dark Skies best practice. By selecting fixtures with appropriate colour temperatures and precision optics, we ensured the light remained focused on the public realm, reducing pollution and preserving the natural darkness of the hinterland sky.
The system is designed for long-term sustainability. The use of specialist LED technology significantly reduces energy consumption compared to traditional public lighting, while the Australian-made control infrastructure supports the local economy and simplifies future maintenance.
The project has successfully extended the usable hours of the park, creating a safer and more social environment for residents and visitors. It demonstrates that creative activation and environmental stewardship can coexist, providing a template for how regional towns can boost their night-time economy responsibly.
Sustainability OutcomesContact POMO to discuss how we can design a Dark Skies compliant lighting strategy for your public space.
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