Smart Centre highlights latest technologies for Sunshine Coast

If you want to see how the latest smart city technologies work, make sure you drop in to Sunshine Coast Council’s Smart Centre in Bulcock Street, Caloundra, which showcases real-time results of technology council is trialling.

Council is using Caloundra as a ‘Living Lab’ to test the technologies before installing them across the region to help determine which ones are most suitable and cost effective to install.

Economic Development, New and Emerging Industries Portfolio Councillor Steve Robinson said council was trialling the technology as part of its Smart City Framework.

“The Smart Centre showcases how we are introducing smart, energy efficient and new technology solutions, which will enhance the Sunshine Coast’s liveability, workability and sustainability,” Cr Robinson said.

“People can visit the centre to see real examples of the technologies we are testing, ranging from parking apps and free high speed public WiFi to real time transport information and packaged data to assist businesses.

“Other examples include bin sensors to improve waste collection services, environmental sensors to test factors like air and water quality, temperature and moisture, as well as smart lighting systems that can be dimmed, brightened and change colours to support community events or business activities.”

Division 2 Councillor Tim Dwyer said council was installing smart technologies in Bulcock Street as part of its streetscape upgrade.

“Bulcock Street will feature technology such as LED lighting, smart WiFi, optic fibre servicing the entire network and smart parking solutions,” Cr Dwyer said.

“The streetscaping project doubles as the first major stage of council’s Smart City Framework project, which will gradually be rolled out across the Sunshine Coast.”

The Smart Centre is located at 63 Bulcock Street and is initially open Tuesday to Friday from 9am to 4pm (these hours will be reviewed periodically).