Girl Guides are set for some sizzling solar success having received a $1.4 million boost in funding from Victoria's state government.
On April 12 minister for youth affairs Ryan Smith announced the $5 million in total funding for Victoria's Scouting and Girl Guide organisations – and this money will be going towards more than just some tasty biscuits.
The installation of solar panels in some Girl Guide facilities is just one of the initiatives the funding will be going towards.
The state government is providing money to facilitate upgrades for scout halls, many of which are outdated and lacking in energy efficiency.
A total of 96 scout halls will have been upgraded through the Victorian government's funding.
"Many existing scout and guide halls were built in the 1960s and are now in need of extensive repair works," said Ryan Smith.
"Through the Scouts and Guides Facilities Grants Program the Coalition Government is improving venue safety and the scouting and guiding experience for young people and their leaders."
A total of $85,884 will go towards upgrades on the Williamstown/Yarraville Guide Hall, such as improving disabled access, the installation of a rain water tank as well as solar panels.
These measures will not only benefit the Girl Guide community but provide enhanced and more environmentally friendly facilities for the wider community, as many of the halls are used for other public events and community groups.
Measures being taken to improve other scout halls include modernisation of facilities such as wiring, kitchens, bathrooms and meeting rooms, as well as re-stumping and floor work.
With any luck the addition of solar panels to the Williamstown/Yarraville Guide Hall will serve as a model for any future upgrades to follow considering solar panels will slash energy usage and power bills – which are clearly great positives for any organisation.
Posted by Mike Peacock