On Sunday 15 September houses throughout Nillumbik Shire will open their doors to showcase exciting sustainable features. Properties located in St Andrews, Hurstbridge, Panton Hill and Eltham will be available for viewing.
Features on display will range from solar hot water to passive solar design, energy efficient lighting, self-sufficient water systems, home-grown produce, and much more. Several houses will also have an electric vehicle on display.
Mayor Karen Egan said Sustainable House Day can provide inspiration and ideas for those wanting to incorporate eco-friendly features into their properties.
“Whether you’re building a new home and want some hints on things like passive solar design, double-glazing and thermal mass, or you want to add features like awnings to an existing house, there will be plenty to see.
“The open home in Panton Hill, for example, is a wonderful illustration of what can be achieved with sustainable measures. The owners transformed the energy rating of the house from 1.6 stars to 6.3 stars and reduced their water consumption by 70,000 litres per year,” she said.
Environment and Sustainability portfolio chair Cr Jane Ashton encouraged residents to check out the inspirational homes dotted throughout the shire.
“Nillumbik leads the way in many respects when it comes to sustainable living and this is a great way to see innovative houses that are really worth a look.
“You can see for yourself that sustainability in no way means compromising on aesthetic appeal or comfort,” Cr Ashton said.
Nillumbik Shire Council is supporting Sustainable House Day in conjunction with Clean Energy Nillumbik.
Sustainable House Day runs from 10am to 4pm on Sunday 15 September. Visitors must register in advance.
Some houses can be viewed by prior appointment only.
For more information and to register, visit www.nillumbik.vic.gov.au/sustainablehouseday or www.sustainablehouseday.com
PHOTO: Stephen McKenzie/Nillumbik Shire Council.
