After seeing the success of a similar service launched in Lawrence earlier this year, Project Clutha decided to investigate introducing free wireless internet into the town for visitors and locals alike.
It joined forces with local computer firm Rivernet and the two groups have been working behind the scenes for several months, fine-tuning the service, which was launched with little fanfare recently.
Project Clutha chairwoman Donna Carline said Rivernet technicians Glenn Hutton and Dave Hunter were invited to its recent annual meeting to explain the service and how it could benefit the wider community.
"Their proposal was too good to pass up and we are thrilled to be involved with them and bring Balclutha into the 21st century."
Residents and tourists can access the wireless signal in an area from the Balclutha War Memorial Hall south to Barr St, mainly on the main street, although the signal does reach the area by Balclutha New World and the Balclutha Showgrounds area.
Users could log in for up to 30 minutes but extra time, obtained by buying pre-paid cards, would be available from businesses soon, Ms Carline said.
