Project summary

Investment in technology such as CCTV, Wi-Fi, bin sensors, electric car charging systems, renewable energy generation and LED public lighting will contribute to digital transformation of Kapunda. In addition data analytics will be used to improve marketing and promotion of the town and provide evidence for future investment.

The challenge

Revival of Australia’s oldest mining town (Kapunda, South Australia) to analyse, measure and increase tourist visitation, enhancing community vibrancy, liveability and safety.

Solution

Implementation of smart city infrastructure to capture data, measure the impacts and increased visitation associated with new tourist attractions. CCTV and video analytics providing quantifiable data and actual evidence on Town Square space usage along with movement tracking. Bin Sensors using ultrasonic technology along with wireless connectivity to automate bin collection data allowing reduced services; costs. Smart LED public lighting using controllers to ramp up/ramp down for events, also reducing service; reporting costs. Localised renewable energy (solar) generation using smart metering to allow analysis and improved demand management.

Benefits

Increased use of public spaces; growing physical activity to achieve healthy lifestyles by attracting people to these open spaces; educating the community on cultural diversity; creation of streetscapes and public spaces that identify the local character; attractions; supporting the cost effective provision of infrastructure; services; promotion of strong links between all parts of the town; its attractions; providing a safe and attractive location for people (particularly youth and underprivileged) to meet and connect (attracted by free WiFi).

Lessons learned

Lessons are still being documented.

Outcomes

The project is complete, however is ongoing with modifications to smart technology settings, etc as more data is collected. This new public space is being used in different ways than initially expected, which would not have otherwise been known without this smart city project. Learnings from this project are informing the open space design aspects of a new Township Expansion in nearby Roseworthy. Anecdotally, there has been an immediate uplift in local community/township pride with many positive comments about this new, interactive public space.

Contact details

Name: Kieren Chappell
Phone: 08 8525 3200
Email: light@light.sa.gov.au