Southern Grampians Shire Council in partnership with the Federal Government and the Smart Cities and Suburbs grant officially launched ‘connectGH’, the Shire’s free public WiFi network on Thursday 20 September at Melville Oval.
The local community and visitors will now have access to free internet via their smart phones, tablets and laptops in the Hamilton CBD, as well as central locations in each surrounding township.
Southern Grampians Shire Council Mayor Mary-Ann Brown said the network would enhance connectivity options for our community and visitors, providing a boost to the region and the digital economy.
“This is an incredible opportunity for the Shire. By facilitating a free public WiFi network we are investing in key infrastructure towards Council’s commitment to building a strong local digital ecosystem.
“Free public WiFi provides a platform to encourage innovative technologies, creating infinite opportunities in the digital economy, which otherwise would not be possible.
“This network also has the capacity to create a more digitally connected community, providing internet connectivity to areas of the community that may have not had this opportunity in the past. ConnectGH will assist in improving digital engagement between residents and enable the Shire to leverage further digital solutions across the region into the future,” Mayor Brown continued.
The WiFi will be available initially in the Hamilton CBD throughout Gray, Brown and Thompson Streets, as well as central locations in Balmoral, Branxholme, Byaduk, Cavendish, Coleraine, Dunkeld, Glenthompson, Penshurst and Tarrington.
Residents and visitors can access the new free network by selecting the WiFi option on their smartphone or tablet and choosing ‘connectGH – Free’.
Details on the network can be found by visiting www.connectgh.com.au