Moorabool council’s cool rooms a fresh idea

Moorabool Shire residents were well looked after during the weekend of hot weather, with the council providing cooling centres to help beat the heat.

Moorabool Shire Council had the centres open in both Bacchus Marsh and Ballan over the weekend from 10am to 6pm.

Mayor Paul Tatchell said the rooms were used by a variety of people and gave residents the opportunity to go somewhere cool as many sweltered in the summer heat. 

“Power bills have gone through the roof so some people don’t use air conditioners,” he said. 

“It is just about keeping people healthy and safe.” 

As temperatures soared across the region over the weekend, most hospitals record a higher attendance of residents needing assistance. 

Health officials usually warn the elderly are particularly at risk. 

“From a health concern young people and the elderly are the concerns,” Cr Tatchell said. 

“We don’t want any disasters, they are in a pretty vulnerable position.

“I wouldn’t worry if there was one or 100 people using it, if one person uses it then it is needed”

Council staff are present in the rooms to provide assistance if needed.