Couple of years ago I've done this my own using radio signals(FM) and so the range of operation was kilometers! I've utilized the tuning indicator output of a conventional receiver chip to accomplish this
For shorter(line of sight) range, IR signals are much easy..
There are TX/RX modules available that makes the task even more easy.
However I doubt controlling a fluorescent light using triacs. You may need a relay unit. Dimming those bulbs are even more difficult..