Shining light on issue

The group is in the process of working closely with City of Ballarat to establish a council trust fund so every cent raised for the project will go towards the project.

Personal trainer and Ballarat YCW runner Gary Blood started a Facebook campaign, initially calling on council to fund the project, but has since changed tact to community ownership.

“It was time to start looking at raising funds ourselves,” Mr Blood said. “I get to know a lot of athletes from all clubs and a lot of other people, like fisherman, who enjoy the lake and they love the idea of lighting up the lake a little longer, too.”

Miners basketball legend and The Athlete’s Foot Ballarat business owner Paul Tudorovic said the lake was such a meeting place and hub enjoyed by so many people in the city, that lighting could offer options for night markets or a place to walk the dog at night.

The group will work with city officers to form a proposal for a trust that will be put before council, who will then vote whether to moot the idea in exhibition for community consultation. This step must be made before council can vote on the trust and how the project should unfold.

Ballarat councillor Amy Johnson, who has been working with the group, said the campaign was open to compromise and community ideas. This included limiting the time lights were on and spreading lights further apart in certain areas for those concerned about wildlife.

In the meantime, the group is also in process of formalising itself as an incorporated entity to properly handle and conduct fundraising activities once the trust is approved.

Ironman Arthur Shaw, of Gove Cycles, said Lake Wendouree was a community training ground – everyone should feel safe.