Annual Report 2019-2020
Financial Year ended 30 June 2020
Acknowledgement to Country Moree Plains Shire Council acknowledges and pays respect to the Kamilaroi people and their Elders, both past and present, as the traditional custodians of this land. Moree Plains Shire Council recognises the different spelling and pronunciations used to represent the original inhabitants of the Moree Plains Shire. The word Gamilaroi will be used throughout the entirety of this document.
Photo Caption NSW Government Funding Announcement: the North-South Link Mayor Katrina Humphries joined Deputy Premier John Barilaro and Northern Tablelands MP and Minister for Agriculture Adam Marshall on site for the announcement of a $3.4 million grant by the NSW Government to build roads and improve access around the Moree Intermodal Park. Moree Plains Shire Council (Council) will deliver the North-South Link; a key part of its Inland Rail program. The North-South Link will enhance safety and productivity by catering for high productivity vehicles, resulting in a reduced number of vehicle movements for the amount of freight transported.
Contents
Vision, Mission and Values 4 Who We Are 6 Moree Plains Shire Statistics 7 Services Snapshot 9 THE YEAR IN REVIEW 15 Mayor’s Message 16 General Manager’s Overview 17 Major Project Highlights 18 Financial Snapshot 20 GOVERNANCE 24 Our Councillors 25 How Do We Govern Our Shire? 32 OUR ORGANISATION 33 Organisational Structure 33 Our Executive Team 35 Audit Management 37 Fit for the Future 37 STATUTORY INFORMATION 38 Our Performance 39 Our Organisation 52 Our Community 66 Our Economy and Infrastructure 68 Feedback on our Annual Report 72
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Vision, Mission and Values Our Organisational Mission Moree Plains Shire Council’s mission is to lead the way in fostering a healthy, positive and well-resourced community. Our Organisational Values At Moree Plains Shire Council (Council), we value:
Our Organisational Vision Moree Plains Shire is a strong, robust community that provides a relaxed, healthy and harmonious lifestyle with an economy that supports the local region and preserves the important environmental qualities of our area. Our Community Vision The Moree Plains Shire is a community that works together achieving a balance between quality of life, enterprising business, agricultural pursuits and looking after our natural resources now and into the future.
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Framework to achieve the Vision On 22 June 2017, Council adopted its new Community Strategic Plan - Moree Plains 2027 – Your Shire. The Plan. Our Future which has 4 key themes:
The first three (3) themes – An Inclusive, Caring Community; Sustainable Spaces and Places and A Vibrant Regional Economy – provide the framework to deliver social, environmental and economic outcomes to achieve our Vision in partnership with other stakeholders.
The final theme – A Leading Organisation – outlines how Council will, as an organisation, support the community direction through effective and transparent leadership.
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Who We Are Our Location Moree Plains Shire is located 640km northwest of Sydney in the fertile Gwydir River and McIntyre River valleys in the North West region of New South Wales. It is home to a dynamic and proactive community, boasting strong agricultural industries, including cotton, grain, livestock, horticulture and oilseeds. The Shire is the most productive agricultural region in Australia, with the capability of producing approximately $990million worth of agricultural commodities under median rainfall conditions. Our Shire The Shire covers an area of approximately 17,930km2 and includes the townships of Moree, Mungindi and Boggabilla, as well as the villages of Ashley, Biniguy, Boomi, Bullarah, Garah, Gurley, Pallamallawa, Mallowa, Millie, Terry Hie Hie, Toomelah, Tulloona, and Weemelah. Our Community The Shire is home to 13,159 residence, with approximately 21.6% identifying as being of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent.1 Founded upon Gamilaroi land, the Shire has a rich Aboriginal heritage and contains several communities managed by the Local Aboriginal Lands Council (LALC) including Toomelah (near Boggabilla), Mehi Crescent and Stanley Village (located in Moree). Council is committed to preserving our special place and lifestyle and helping create a strong and rewarding economy for all residents.
1 Australian Bureau of Statistics: 2016 Census (a 4% decrease from the 2011 Census).
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Moree Plains Shire Statistics
51% 64.1% 2 Workforce in Full- Male Time Employment
Residents Total Labour Force2 49% 6.4% Enrolled to Vote2 2 Workforce Female 4,608 Unemployed 8,251
$1,240 2.5 $170 $1,300 6,377 Median weekly Average household Median weekly rent2 Median monthly Number of rateable household income2 size2 mortgage repayment2 properties3
2 Electoral Commission NSW. 3 Moree Plains Shire Council. File: 19/669 Moree Plains Shire Council Annual Report 30 June 2020 Doc: 2020/45031
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Existing Agricultural Land Use Breakdown and Economic Contribution*
As per: Gwydir Valley Irrigators Association and NSW Farmers Association (January 2020)
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Services Snapshot Community Events
NAIDOC Week Garage Sale Trail Christmas at Twilight 7-14 July 2019 21-22 November 2019 13 December 2019
Australia Day Youth Week Anzac Day 26 January 2020 1-9 April 2020 25 April 2020
Grants & Economic Development
Gross Regional Product* $1.013 billion *RDA Northern Inland REMPLAN data Grant funding obtained for $2,308,058 the Moree Plains Shire during the 2019/20 financial year
Subscribers to the Business Burst Monthly 328 eNewsletter
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Ranger Services
Companion Animals Registered 224 55.4% de-sexed
Dogs Rehomed 155 (with the assistance of the Moree Branch of the Animal Welfare League)
Cats Rehomed 33 (with the assistance of the Moree Branch of the Animal Welfare League)
Guinea Pigs Rehomed 5
1 Lamb Rehomed
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Social Media
Moree Plains Shire Council’s My Moree’s Facebook - 8,441 LinkedIn - 887 followers Facebook - 5,344 followers followers Largest engagement of any Update (14.4% increase from 4,671 Largest Reach of any Facebook related to the recruitment of our followers in 2019) post – Over 6,500 people (Sept 19) Executive Planner
Largest Reach of any Facebook post – Over 11,500 people (Feb 20)
Most popular pages on our website are: 1. Positions Vacant (15,209) 2. Contacts/Phone Numbers (7,095) 3. Media Releases (6,785) 4. Download Forms (6,526) Website 5. Submissions and Public Notices (3,910) 6. Waste, landfill – locations and operating times (3,882) Page views - 221,934 (79.2% increase from 123,859 views in 2019)
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Waste
2202.96 Tonnes of General Waste collected
633.29 Tonnes of Recycling collected Community Recycling Centre (units) (5.12% Contaminated) Household Batteries 468 E-waste 477 Fluorescent Globes 364 1008.16 Gas Bottles 103 Tonnes of Organics collected Litres of Paint 505 (3.63% Contamination) Ink Cartridges 340
Tonnes of Bulky Waste 115.70 collected Tonnes of General Waste 79.86 Tonnes of Garden Organics 9.32 Tonnes of Metal 26.52
Illegal Dumping Incidents Reported 95
Tonnes of Organic Mulch Sustainably Produced (Green kerbside bins collected and processed into 363.61 mulch and returned to community for free)
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Engineering Services
2,842.73 Kilometres of Public Roads
Kilometres of Sealed Public Roads Kilometres of Unsealed Public Roads 850.25 1,992.48
69 42.8 144 Open Spaces Kilometres Kilometres (Public Parks of Shared of Water and Ovals) Pathways Main
3 Airports (Moree, Mungindi & Boomi)
22,093 Passengers travelling through Moree Regional Airport
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Gwydir Daycare Centre
Opening Hours Open 5 days a week: Monday to Friday 7.45am to 5.45pm 72 Open for 50 weeks of the year to Daily families. Casual days offered to enrolments families with permanent bookings only
Early Childhood Teachers working 0-5 years fulltime in the Centre 3 Age Group (Early Childhood Teachers full time in Provided for the Preschool Room which provides a Preschool/school readiness program. Traineeships offered)
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The Year in Review First Quarter: July – September 2019 Third Quarter: January – March 2020 Hosted NAIDOC Week celebrations. Australia Day event was successfully held with nine (9) Hosted a successful Careers Expo. new citizens welcomed. Councillor Greg Smith appointed Deputy Mayor until Helped ‘Light Up the Dawn’ for a socially distant ANZAC Council elections in September 2020. day ceremony. Upgraded all public computers at the Moree and Successfully hosted the Founders to Farmers Event in Mungindi Community Libraries. collaboration with IntellectAg. Completed the construction of 2 purpose built amenity The Moree Community Safety Committee Budget and bathroom facilities at the Mungindi Showground. provided $20,000 to fund the FlatTrack program to Resealed the access road to the trade waste disposal assist in its establishment in Moree. site. Hosted a successful Back to School at the Pool Party on Upgraded Bucknell Street, Mungindi. 31 January at the Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre where Upgraded Walker Street, Mungindi, to seal gravel over 400 children attended for free. shoulders. Installed exercise equipment along the Mehi River corridor shared pathway network. Second Quarter: October – December 2019 Installed soft fall at Apex Park. Provided funding and support to community groups for Completed the rehabilitation of the Aeration Tanks on Australia Day and Volunteer of the Year celebrations. time and on budget Provided support and funding for annual Christmas at Completed the upgrade of 2 kilometres of sealed road Twilight event at Ron Harborne Oval in partnership along MR232 Boonangar Road. with community groups. Completed 3 kilometres of road chainage along SR109 Published the Annual Report for 2018-2019 financial Gurley Creek Road. year. Upgraded Simpson Street, Boggabilla to reseal and seal $5,000 granted from the NSW State Government to gravel shoulders supply books to children aged 0-5 years old for Continued to pass on 25,000L of free water to eligible Christmas. drought affected residences. Replaced decorative lighting down Moree’s main street. Fourth Quarter: April – June 2020 Received funding for and installed a flood gauge Completed the upgrade of 600 metres of sealed road upstream on the Weir River and before the confluence and kerb, gutter, and drainage along Chester Street of the MacIntyre River. Moree, between Heber Street and Gwydir Street. Constructed a half-court at the Moree Skate Park. $3.4 million secured to seal the curves of SR 108 Completed safety improvements at Lyle Houlahan Park, Burrington Road and SR1 Watercourse Road, arterial including the installation of additional lighting. sealing of 5.8 kilometres of SR101 Terry Hie Hie Road, Completed the refurbishment of the Moree Military and upgrade bridge approaches SR17 Cleveland Road, Museum. SR11 Gingham Road, SR1 Watercourse, SR10 Baroona, Completed the topdressing of Ron Harborne Oval SR 7 Poison Gate, SR 45 Brageen Crossing, SR34 cricket fields. Clarendon Road, SR5 Combadello Road and SR6 Completed the construction of 7 critical access Telleraga Road. causeways. $189,390 secured from NSW State Government to Sealed Banksia Street, Moree. construct the permanent Mungindi Water Treatment Sealed Edward Street, Moree. Plant Cooling Tower. MyMoree Photo Exhibition was successfully held at Successfully completed the first half of the Moree BAMM. Plains Smart Water Meters Replacement Scheme. Completed infrastructure upgrade at the Mungindi Successfully completed 3.6 kilometres of the Moree Water Treatment Plant to ensure water security in the Water Main Renewal Program. event of future droughts. Successfully delivered over 1,540 activity packs to senior and junior library members during the lockdown period.
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Mayor’s Message
What an interesting time the last 12 months have been, but we are ever so blessed to be living in the Moree Plains Shire during these times. I extend my most sincere thanks to our community who continue to look out for each and keep each other safe.
Council continues to be guided by our Community Strategic Plan – Moree Plains 2027 – Your Shire. The Plan. Our Future which was developed in close collaboration with our local community.
I would like to sincerely thank all members of the community who have continued to attend Council led forums and sessions. Council also held a Contractor Information session to assist in the community’s ability to seek employment and Councillor Katrina Humphries Mayor meaningful work with Council. We appreciate your time and hope to run more supportive programs, especially with the upcoming Inland Rail and Moree Special Activation Precinct, in the future.
I am so pleased for the with the announcement that the Moree Special Activation Precinct (SAP) will be investigated to create a thriving business hub that will take advantage of its location in the middle of the most productive grain region in Australia, leveraging the Inland Rail route and Newell Highway. The Precinct would create a new business hub that specialises in agribusiness, logistics and food processing industries.
In addition to the announcement of the SAP, the Moree Intermodal Interchange road components, including the North-South Link will be funded through the Growing Local Economies Fund which is part of the NSW Government’s $1.3 billion Regional Growth Fund, designed to support long-term economic growth and create jobs in regional New South Wales. I am proud as punch that the North-South Link is the culmination of a great working relationship between Council and the Moree Local Aboriginal Lands Council. I cannot tell you how supportive Tom, Lloyd and the Lands Council more generally have been in the process. The North-South Link will long be remembered as a great example of what can be achieved when State and local government work with the aboriginal community and industry.
Although 2020 has come with its challenges, it has also blessed us with 380.2mm of rain in the first six months. Whilst we still have not waved goodbye to this unprecedented drought, I look forward to the prosperity that this rain brings.
I am grateful to serve another year as Mayor in this wonderful Shire. Here’s to a happy, healthy and rain-filled year ahead.
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General Manager’s Overview
It is with great pleasure that I present our Annual Report for the year ended 30 June 2020.
While this year has been ever changing and challenging, it has also been highly successful for Council’s general operations as we continue to follow our Community Strategic Plan – Moree Plains 2027 – Your Shire. The Plan. Our Future.
In these times, it is important to remember that we are so very fortunate that we in a strong rural community. However, it is important to remain vigilant and continue to look out for each other. Lester Rodgers Despite these difficult operational conditions, I am pleased to report that we General Manager have continued to deliver the services and projects outlined at the start of the year in our Operational Plan and Budget 2019-2020. I am pleased to report that Council completed $20.76 million in capital projects, including finalisation of Round 1 of the Drought Communities Programme projects and considerable progress on long awaited works on MR507 Carrington Road. This year also saw completion of some significant water projects; the Biniguy Potable Water Project (wholly funded by the NSW State Government and delivered by Council) and significant infrastructure upgrades to the water treatment plant in Mungindi to allow artesian water to be treated for domestic use when the usual town water supply was impacted by drought.
I am confident that Council will continue to deliver what have planned in our new Operational Plan and Budget 2020-2021, and we look forward to working with our State and Federal Government counterparts in the delivery of significant infrastructure projects.
Our new Operational Plan and Budget 2020-2021 is available on our website as well as our 4 Year Delivery Program and Community Strategic Plan – Moree Plains 2027 – Your Shire. The Plan. Our Future. If you have not already done so, I strongly encourage you to look at these documents and to keep an eye out for any opportunities to comment on newly developed plans in the future.
I look forward to working with our staff and the community to deliver our plans, as we work together to enrich the Shire even further.
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Major Project Highlights Moree Special Activation Precinct Moree is currently on track to become one of the NSW’s Special Activation Precincts. Following Parkes and Wagga Wagga, Moree’s new and innovative business hub will specialise in agribusiness, logistics and food processing industries. Located on the Inland Rail route and at the junction of three major highways, Moree is an ideal location for this new endeavour to attract considerable new investment to the region.
While making it easier for new and existing businesses to expand, establish and grow, the Moree SAP is projected to create almost 2,000 jobs in the medium to long-term. “Moree is the most productive agricultural region in Australia – and now thanks to this new precinct, backed by the State Government, combined with inland rail – Moree will become the economic engine room for northern NSW”, said Northern Tablelands MP Mr Adam Marshall.
An Inclusive, Caring Community: Installation of Softfall at Apex Park Apex Park, located in the heart of Moree underwent upgrades in March 2020 to install a softfall surface grounding under the playground, improving the safety of the facility for children and families.
The $55,000 project, funded through the NSW Government’s Stronger Country Communities Fund has improved the safety standard of the playground and enabled easier and thorough cleaning of the facility.
Moree's playgrounds are well utilised facilities that are cherished by children and their families, they greatly add to the appeal of our town and play a vital role in bringing the community together.
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A Vibrant Regional Economy: 2019 MyMoree Photo Competition The MyMoree Photo Exhibition is a celebration of the photogenic life and culture across the Moree Plains inviting both locals and tourists to submit photos that illustrate the beauty of the Plains and what Moree means to them.
In 2019, almost 600 entries were posted on the MyMoree Facebook page with over 300 photographs on display throughout the exhibition which filled the walls of the top floor of the Bank Art Museum Moree (BAMM). Submissions increased by 25% since the 2017 inaugural competition. Competition categories included “People of the Plains”, “Our Country”, “Our History”, “Iconic Moree Plains” and “Up & Coming Talent”.
State member for Northern Tablelands Adam Marshall, Minister for Agriculture and Western NSW, and Moree Plains Shire Council Deputy Mayor Greg Smith attended the finalist event to award prizes to each category winner. Sustainable Spaces and Places: Biniguy Potable Water Project In 2019, after New South Wales faced its hottest and driest year on record, Biniguy residents who relied largely on rain water and private bores received an early Christmas gift of safe and permanent potable water supply.
Until recently, Biniguy residents relied on rainwater tanks and private bores for water in their homes. Residents held concerns about potential contamination of their bore water supply as many of the village’s in-ground septic tanks discharged into the same aquifer water was drawn from.
Council, with support from the NSW Government’s Restart NSW Water Security for the Regions funding program, installed two 60 kilolitre reservoirs and 11.5 kilometres of pipework from the Pallamallawa Pump Station to the new Biniguy Water Treatment Plant. A Leading Organisation: Safework Workshop With a strong agriculture industry based throughout Moree Plains Shire and a high percentage of workplace fatalities within the industry, Council hosted a Worksafe Workshop evening for the community.
The evening included a special guest speaker Shane Webcke and a presentation from SafeWork outlining services to support businesses such as rebate programs, events, advisory visits and workshops.
The evening brought together a range of resources covering key safety topics as well as featuring Council safety-related services in relation to asbestos, waste disposal, road safety and chain of responsibility.
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Financial Snapshot Our Status as at 30 June 2020 For the 2019/20 financial year Council reported a loss of $944,000 before grants and contributions provided for capital purposes and a net operating result of $17,012,000.
The following contains details of:
Value of our Assets
Where our money comes from (including Rates, Annual Charges, User Charges, Other User Charges and Fees and Grants and Contributions) Where our money goes
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2020/21 Budget Council’s consolidated budget includes, in addition to General Fund activities the following business units: Water Supply Sewer Services Solid Waste Management Gwydir Day Care and Preschool Max Centre
For the 2020/21 budget year Council has a consolidated operating expenditure budget of $54,403,923 and a capital budget expenditure of $54,702,576.
2020/21 Budget For every $100 we spend
Transport & Communications $33.06 Economic Affairs $2.80
Housing & Community Water Supply $20.73 Amenities $2.17
Community Services & Recreation & Culture $12.80 Education $2.54
Environment $10.13 Governance $0.91
Organisation Support Functions $6.56 Health $0.37
Mining, Manufacturing & Sewer Services $3.70 Construction $0.15
Public Order & Safety $4.08
For every $100 we spend, $30 is from general rates and $70 is from grants, fees and charges, and other revenue
The budget and complete list of activities undertaken during the 2019/20 financial year can be found in the Operational Plan and Budget 2019-2020 and through our Quarterly Reporting Process.
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Governance Residents and ratepayers are currently represented by nine (9) elected Councillors from across the Shire.
In an ordinary year, Councillors are elected by the community for a four (4) year term following an election. The Mayor is elected annually by the Councillors. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, all Local Government Councils in New South Wales have had their term extended for an additional year. New South Wales Local Government elections are now scheduled to occur in September 2021.
Together, the Councillors develop the policies and make the decisions that determine how the Shire runs on a daily basis and how it will develop in the future.
New South Wales Local Government elections are now scheduled to occur on the second Saturday in September 2021. Voting is compulsory.
For more information on Local Government elections, and to find out how to enrol, where you’re enrolled and how to vote as well as how to become a candidate, visit the NSW Electoral Commission website: https://www.elections.nsw.gov.au/Elections/Local-government-elections/Local-Government-Elections-2021.
Our Councillors for the 2017-2021 Term of Office: Back row, from left to right: Cr Mike Montgomery, Cr Stephen Ritchie, Deputy Mayor Cr Greg Smith, Cr Jim Crawford. Front row, from left to right: Cr John Tramby, Cr Sue Price, Cr Kerry Cassells, Mayor Cr Katrina Humphries and Cr George Chiu
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Our Councillors Local government elections were held in September 2016. Councillors for the 2019-2020 Council term of office are listed here.
Mayor, Cr Katrina Humphries First elected: 2008
Major Assignments: Council’s Internal Committees • Council Committee of the Whole • General Manager’s Performance Review Committee • Internal Audit Committee Advisory Committees • Moree Community Safety Committee • Floodplain Risk Management Committee • Reconciliation Action Plan Committee Section 355 Committees • Garah Public Hall Committee Local Government Organisations • Chair of Country Mayors Association • New England Joint Organisation (NEJO) Other External Committees • Moree Tourism Inc. Board (ex officio) • Joint Regional Planning Panel (alternate) • Moree Reconciliation Group • Newell Highway Taskforce • Moree Plains Gallery Board
Cr Katrina Humphries was born in Moree in 1960 and is the fourth generation of her family on the black soil plains. Cr Humphries grew up half way between Moree and Mungindi, near Garah. Katrina’s school years were spent in Garah, except for four years at boarding school in Sydney. Katrina is proud to have spent most of her working life in Moree and is a well renowned small business owner. Cr Humphries is married to Gregg Humphries and they have two children, Robert and Belinda and two grandchildren.
Cr Humphries sees her role as Mayor as being the custodian of the health and wellbeing of Shire. This has been particularly evident during three major floods in 2011 and 2012, where she successfully provided leadership throughout the disasters and the recovery period. Cr Humphries is passionate about the ongoing development of the Shire, including leveraging the Inland Rail and growing tourism and industry for the benefit of all residents.
Cr Humphries has held the Mayoral position for Moree Plains since 2008.
Contact details Telephone: 0429 079 217 Email: [email protected]
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Deputy Mayor, Cr Greg Smith First elected: 2016
Major Assignments: Council’s Internal Committees • Council Committee of the Whole • General Manager’s Performance Review Committee • Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre Ltd Board • Chair of the Finance and Governance Committee Advisory Committees • Road Network Consultative Group Section 355 Committees • Pallamallawa War Memorial Hall Committee Other External Committees • Bushfire Management • Northern Inland Weeds Advisory Committee • Cr Smith is a fourth generation resident of Moree Plains and lives with wife Libby on the family’s rural property east of Gurley, along an unsealed road! He has been a proactive member of the Moree Plains Road Network Consultative Group – the community group set up to discuss the management of the Shire’s road network including 1,700 kilometres of gravel roads and 300+ kilometres of black soil roads. In his role as Councillor, he will continue to champion the upgrade and maintenance of rural roads to ensure accessibility for school children, farmers, business and transport operators, employees and families.
Cr Smith is concerned with the increased costs of running Council due to the State Government pushing their responsibilities onto local government; and is fiercely outspoken about Council finances, rate increases, budgets, increasing debt, project management and planning.
Contact details Telephone: 0428 237 690 Email: [email protected]
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Cr Kerry Cassells First elected: 2016
Major Assignments: Council’s Internal Committees • Council Committee of the Whole • General Manager’s Performance Review Committee • Chair of the Strategic Works and Community Development Committee (January 2020 to June 2020) Advisory Committee • Moree Community Safety Committee • Urban Advisory Committee • Boggabilla Crime Prevention Committee • Reconciliation Action Plan Committee • South Moree Community Action Committee Section 355 Committees • Moree Youth Council Committee Other External Committees • Moree Reconciliation Group
Cr Cassells is Moree born and bred and has a strong affiliation with health, community care and social justice – working for Moree Plains Shire Council in 1990-91 looking after the aged and people with disabilities and for the past 19 years, as Justice Health clinical nurse specialist at the Moree Police cells. Cr Cassells’ proprieties are inclusiveness, safety and security of residents and visitors including cultural inclusion and employment opportunities; accessibility for the elderly, parents with prams and the disabled, and safety awareness with better lighting, closed circuit coverage of known drug, crime and dumping spots and crime prevention initiatives.
Contact details Telephone: 0436 411 284 Email: [email protected]
Cr George Chiu First elected: 2016
Major Assignments: Council’s Internal Committees • Council Committee of the Whole • General Manager’s Performance Review Other External Committees • Moree & District Chamber of Commerce
Cr Chiu came to Australia 42 years ago from Hong Kong, and is coming up to 35 years in Moree having arrived in 1983. Five years later, George became the owner-operator of Moree’s Dragon & Phoenix Resort and Restaurant, which he has expanded into a 64 room motel, with on-site hot Artesian Thermal Baths and (soon to be completed) serviced apartments. Cr Chiu wants to diversify the Moree Plains economy with greater emphasis on business opportunities in areas of education and agriculture with our major trading partners.
Contact details Telephone: 0439 888 990 Email: [email protected]
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Cr Jim Crawford First elected: 2016
Major Assignments: Council’s Internal Committees • Council Committee of the Whole • General Manager’s Performance Review Committee • Internal Audit Committee Advisory Committee • Road Network Consultative Group Other External Committees • Local Traffic Committee • Rural Fire Service District Liaison Committee • Big Sky Libraries Committee
Cr Crawford arrived in Moree with wife Christine in late 1982 from his hometown of Inverell. He has had a long- term career with the NSW Government-owned electricity network – North West County Council, now Essential Energy – as the Area Manager and retired as Regional Manager.
He has been a proactive member of a number of community associations and volunteer groups including: the Moree Apex Club and the Rotary Club of Moree, where he served terms as President and Secretary; six years as the Honorary Treasurer for the Moree Rural Counselling Service; President of Moree Family Support; committee member of Moree Area Homelessness Services; president of University of the Third Age; volunteer driver for Moree Community Transport; and on a permanent roster for Meals on Wheels deliveries. Cr Crawford’s priorities are making sure supplies can get to rural producers and their product to markets via the local road network. He is looking forward to continuing to develop Moree Plains as a tourist destination and sees it as advantageous to diversify the Shire’s industry opportunities.
Contact details Telephone: 0427 499 168 Email: [email protected]
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Cr Michael Montgomery AM First elected: 1987-2012; returning 2016
Major Assignments: Council’s Internal Committees • Council Committee of the Whole • General Manager’s Performance Review Committee Other External Committees • North West Weight of Loads
The Montgomery ancestors moved to the Garah district in the 1850s. Cr Montgomery has lived in Moree Plains Shire for most of his life, albeit a few years working interstate. He and wife Janelle operate the family property north of Ashley. Councillor Mike Montgomery is a Trustee of the A R Bluett Trust, which was established in 1944 as a memorial to A R Bluett. The A R Bluett Trust involves judging Local Governments in NSW who have made the greatest relative progress during the previous year. Cr Montgomery is also a Trustee of the Stephen Ward Scholarship which is awarded to at least one employee from each of the A R Bluett award winning Councils to undertake further study, professional development or research.
Cr Montgomery was originally elected to Moree Plains Shire Council in 1987 and served 25 years as a Moree Plains Councillor. He has been a strong advocate for local government; served as president of the Shires Association of NSW, national president of the Australian Local Government Association; and as a member of the Great Artesian Basin Consultative Committee, the national body which advises the federal and state governments on matters relating to that source of underground water. Coming back into the Council fold, Cr Montgomery sees job development, value for dollar and service provision as the priorities. Cr Montgomery held the Mayoral role for Moree Plains during 1996-2001 and 2007-2008. In 2005, Cr Montgomery was awarded the Member of the Order of Australia (AM) for his services to regional NSW and for regional development and roads funding.
Contact details Telephone: 0427 542 051 Email: [email protected]
Cr Sue Price OAM First elected: 2008
Major Assignments: Council’s Internal Committees • Council Committee of the Whole • General Manager’s Performance Review Committee • Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre Ltd Board (until December 2019) Advisory Committee • Mungindi Crime Prevention Committee • Road Network Consultative Group Section 355 Committees • Mungindi Aged Care Committee • Mungindi Showground & Racecourse Committee • Mungindi Youth Council • Weemelah Public Hall Management Committee • Treasurer of Arts North West Other External Committees • Board Member of Regional Development Australia – Northern Inland
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After graduating from the University of New England, Armidale, in 1978, Cr Sue Price enjoyed a 25 year teaching career across several schools in northern New South Wales. In 1982, Cr Price and her husband Glen moved to Mungindi to embark on their own farming enterprise.
Cr Price is an active community member with a passion for rural living and rural communities. She strongly encourages visitors and new residents to embrace the attractions the region offers. Cr Price is also a fierce proponent for the need to maintain and upgrade rural infrastructure – particularly local roads where most of Australia’s food first begins its journey to market. Cr Price held the Deputy Mayor’s position for Moree Plains from 2008 to 2016.
In May 2019, Cr Price was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for her services to rural and regional NSW. In addition to this, Cr Price was awarded the 2019 Minister’s Award for Women in Local Government as an Elected Representative from a Rural or Regional Council.
Contact details Telephone: 0427 169 676 Email: [email protected]
Cr Stephen Ritchie First elected: 2016
Major Assignments: Council’s Internal Committees • Council Committee of the Whole • General Manager’s Performance Review Committee • Chair of the Strategic Works and Community Development Committee (July 2019 to December 2019) • Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre Ltd Board (until December 2019) Advisory Committee • Urban Advisory Committee • Reconciliation Action Plan Committee Other External Committees • Joint Regional Planning Panel – Northern • Border Region Organisation of Councils • North West Weight of Loads Committee (alternate)
Cr Ritchie is Moree born and bred and has lived in town all his life. He gained his apprenticeship locally and ran his own business as a qualified building contractor, up until his recent retirement. He has been a proactive member of the Moree Plains Urban Advisory Committee for 12 years, and President of the Moree Historical Society for 15 years in an effort to preserve the Moree and district’s rich history and heritage.
Cr Ritchie’s priority is getting back to basics – roads, rates and rubbish – with responsible spending of finances and better use of limited resources. He is looking forward to taking a proactive role in establishing ways and means to curb crime, create employment and promote population growth in Moree Plains.
Contact details Telephone: 0436 412 742 Email: [email protected]
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Cr John Tramby OAM First elected: 1995
Major Assignments: Council’s Internal Committees • Council Committee of the Whole • General Manager’s Performance Review Committee • Deputy Chair of Finance and Governance Committee Advisory Committee • Moree Community Safety Committee • Urban Advisory Committee • Floodplain Risk Management Committee • Road Network Consultative Group Section 355 Committees • Gurley Hall Committee • Gwydir Day Care and Preschool Parents Committee Inter-Government Liaison • Rural Fire District Liaison Committee • Moree and District War Memorial Education Centre (Trust)
Other External Committees • Saleyards Committee • Big Sky Libraries Committee • Bushfire Management Committee
Cr John Tramby was born in Moree and the Tramby family settled in Moree Plains in the early 1860s. He has lived and worked in the Shire all his life except for two years of National Service in Vietnam. Cr Tramby conducts a business – which was established in 1937 – in the village of Gurley.
Cr Tramby is a patron of the Gurley Pony Club and the Moree Secondary College. He is a life member of the NSW Returned Services League (RSL) and a member of the Rural Fire Brigade.
Cr Tramby was elected Mayor of Moree Plains for the period 2004–2007.
Contact details Telephone: 0428 659 048 Email: [email protected]
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How Do We Govern Our Shire?
Determining the direction of a Shire is a complex matter. There is rarely communitywide consensus on the issues that face a Shire. The Role of Council Council’s role is to formulate policies for the Shire’s direction, funding, expenditure, investment, borrowing, finance, strategic development and growth. Mayoral and Councillor Fees
Year Mayoral Allowance Councillor Allowances
2014/15 $23,440 $10,740 2015/16 $24,030 $11,010 2016/17 $24,030 $11,010 2017/18 $25,245 $11,567 2018/19 $23,882 $10,943 2019/20 $26,529 $12,159
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Our Organisation Organisational Structure The organisational structure of Moree Plains Shire Council, as at the conclusion of the 2019/20 financial year is as follows:
The Moree Plains Shire Council organisation exists as a body corporate under the Local Government Act 1993. The elected Council is the law-making body and consists of nine (9) Councillors.
The statutory roles, functions and objectives of the Moree Plains Shire Council are delivered through a corporate governance structure that comprises:
Council; the General Manager; and the Executive Team.
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Our Executive Team The daily operations of Council are performed by 266 dedicated full-time, part-time and casual employees led by a team of directors and managers. Council’s executive management team is headed by the General Manager, Lester Rodgers.
GENERAL MANAGER Lester Rodgers Lester Rodgers has been with Council for more than 25 years. He commenced the role as General Manager on 22 May 2015 and was formerly the Director of Planning and Development (now known as Planning and Community Development). As the General Manager, Lester oversees the functions of the entire Council, with the support of the Executive Team, to ensure the objectives outlined in the Community Strategic Plan can be achieved.
Lester holds a Diploma in Applied Science majoring in public health, environmental health and building services. He also holds national accreditations as a building surveyor with the Building Surveyors and Allied Professionals Board (BSAP), the Australian Institute of Building Surveyors (AIBS), and A1 level certification as an accredited certifier with the NSW Government Building Professionals Board.
DIRECTOR OF PLANNING AND COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT Angus Witherby Angus Witherby has been employed by Council since June 2015. Angus has been engaged with the Moree community since 1980. Angus commenced his career in local government in 1984 with Shellharbour Council. Angus, together with his team, coordinates a diverse range of portfolios within the Department.
Angus holds a Graduate Diploma in Urban and Regional Planning as well as a Bachelor of Arts in Geography and Economics. He is a fellow of the Planning Institute of Australia and a Certified Practising Planner. He has taught and researched in the tertiary sector including in planning, and transportation planning. He is a former Director of the Centre for Local Government at the University of New England focusing on local government reform.
DIRECTOR OF ENGINEERING SERVICES Ian Dinham (July 2019 – January 2020) Ian Dinham joined Council in November 2011. He has worked in Local Government for the past 35 years, serving at Clarence Valley and the former Maclean Shire as well as with the former Clarence River County Council - Floodplain Management Authority.
The Engineering Department manages the bulk of Council’s assets; in particular, roads, public reserves, parks and gardens and cemeteries as well as providing a Weight of Loads service to the region and a design service to Council. Ian holds a Civil Engineering Degree from the University of NSW and a Business Management Certificate as well as a Local Government Engineers Certificate.
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DIRECTOR OF ENGINEERING SERVICES (ACTING) Alan Lawrance (January 2020 – June 2020) Alan Lawrance is a Chartered Professional Engineer on the National Engineering Register. He is a consultant on contract to Council. He joined Council in January 2020. He has worked in Local Government for the past 31 years, serving at numerous regional and urban councils in both permanent and temporary positions. This followed an earlier period in State Government with the Roads and Maritime Services.
Alan holds a Master’s Degree in Local Government Management, Graduate Diplomas in Management and Local Government Engineering as well as a Civil Engineering Degree. He is also qualified in Airport Management and carries the temporary role of Airport Manager.
DIRECTOR OF CORPORATE SERVICES Mitchell Johnson (July 2019 – November 2019) Mitchell joined Council in 2004 and has more than 19 years of Local Government experience, having previously worked at Bathurst City Council and Byron Shire Council. Mitchell’s background is in Accounting and Financial Services.
Mitchell holds a Bachelor of Business and a Masters in Business Administration, both attained from Southern Cross University, and is a member of Local Government Professionals Australia.
DIRECTOR OF CORPORATE SERVICES (ACTING) Andrew Probert (November 2019 – June 2020) Andrew Probert joined Council in 1999 and has more than 20 years of Local Government experience. Andrew’s background is in Accounting and Financial Services and his current Directorate includes finance, property management, shire pools, and Gwydir Day Care and Preschool. Andrew holds a Bachelor of Financial Administration and Bachelor of Laws from the University of New England.
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Audit Management Local Government Act 1993 s 428(4)(a): a copy of the council’s audited financial reports prepared in accordance with the Local Government Code of Accounting Practice and Financial Reporting published by the Department, as in force from time to time. The Council Committee The Council Committee is the ‘first check point’ of our financial position. The Committee reviews our financial reports on a monthly and quarterly basis. A key strategic objective of the Committee is the oversight and review of the Long-Term Financial Plan, ensuring the long-term goals of the Council and the community can be achieved. The Council Committee is made up of all elected members. Internal Audit Committee The Audit, Review and Finance Committee received an options paper in December 2009. A draft Internal Audit Charter and Audit Committee Charter were presented to the Audit, Review and Finance Committee in January 2010 and subsequently adopted by resolution of the Council on 18 February 2010.
The Internal Audit Committee’s objective is to provide independent assurance and assistance. Their Charter covers risk management, control, governance and external accountability responsibilities.
The Committee will consist of: Members (voting) • Mayor • Councillor • Independent external member (not a member of the Council) • Independent external member (an independent to be the Chairperson). Attendee (non-voting) • General Manager • Finance Manager Invitees (non-voting) for specific Agenda items • Representatives of the external auditor • Head of Internal Audit • Other officers may attend by invitation as requested by the Committee. Fit for the Future On 30 June 2015, Council submitted Template 2: Improvement Proposal as part of the ‘Fit for the Future’ reform process. As part of that submission, the Council put together an Improvement Action Plan (which was incorporated into the organisation’s Operational Plan and Budget 2016-2017).
During the course of the 2015/16 financial year, Council was found to be “fit”. Since its adoption, Council has continued to implement the strategies set out in its Improvement Action Plan to ensure that it could meet its forecast performance on the seven (7) benchmarks of the reform process.
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Statutory Information The information in this section of our Annual Report is provided in response to statutory requirements.
The Statutory Report addresses the elements of the Council’s Charter set out in Section 8 of the Local Government Act 1993 (“the Act”) as follows: • to provide directly or on behalf of other levels of government, after due consultation, adequate, equitable and appropriate services and facilities for the community and to ensure that those services and facilities are managed efficiently and effectively • to exercise community leadership • to exercise its functions in a manner that is consistent with and actively promotes the principles of multiculturalism • to promote and to provide and plan for the needs of children • to properly manage, develop, protect, restore, enhance and conserve the environment of the area for which it is responsible, in a manner that is consistent with and promotes the principles of ecologically sustainable development • to have regard to the long term and cumulative effects of its decisions • to bear in mind that it is the custodian and trustee of public assets and to effectively account for and manage the assets for which it is responsible • to facilitate the involvement of Councillors, members of the public, users of facilities and services and council staff in the development, improvement and coordination of local government • to raise funds for local purposes by the fair imposition of rates, charges and fees, by income earned from investments and, when appropriate, by borrowings and grants • to keep the local community and the State Government (and through it, the wider community) informed about its activities • to ensure that, in the exercise of its regulatory functions, it acts consistently and without bias, particularly where an activity of the council is affected • to be a responsible employer.
Where appropriate, further details are provided in other sections of this Annual Report as indicated.
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Our Performance The Annual Report is one of the many ways Shire council reports back to its community and stakeholders.
The Report focuses on the financial and operational performance of the Council and provides a snapshot of Council’s achievements throughout the year.
Audited Financial Under section 416(1) of the Act, a The complete audited financial statements and council’s financial reports for a auditor’s report can be found in Moree Plains Reports year must be prepared and Shire Council’s Financial Statements 2020, which audited within a period of 4 can also be downloaded from months after the end of that year, www.mpsc.nsw.gov.au. namely by 30 October. This year, this timeframe was extended to 30 November 2020 by the NSW Government, due to the COVID-19 restrictions imposed during the 2019/20 financial year. Community Report Card In June 2017, Moree Plains Shire The Community Strategic Plan identified four (4) Council adopted its new common themes of significance comprising: Community Strategic Plan – Moree Plains 2027 – Your Shire. An Inclusive, Caring The Plan. Our Future. From this, the Council developed its Delivery Community Program which detailed the actions and strategies for which the Council was responsible for the ensuing four (4) years. A Vibrant Regional Economy
Sustainable Spaces and Places
A Leading Organisation
On 27 June 2019, the Council Each financial quarter, the General Manager adopted the Operational Plan and provides the Council with a progress report on Budget 2019-2020 (“Operational the status of satisfying the Performance Targets Plan”). set out in the Operational Plan. These are publicly available on our website.
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As at 30 June 2020, the Council’s performance against the Performance Targets was assessed accordingly to the following criteria:
Performance Indicators
If the Action relates to a Project The project has been fully completed (or at least 95% thereof) during the course of the financial year All scheduled works in relation to a project spanning several financial years were fully completed (or at least 95% thereof) during the course of the financial year
If the Action relates to a Compliance Action As at 30 June 2020, Council was compliant For any other Action The activity has been fully completed (or at least 95% thereof) during the course of the financial year If the Action relates to a Project The project is not completed but a substantial amount of work has been undertaken during the course of the financial year Not all scheduled works in relation to a project spanning several financial years were completed during the course of the financial year but a substantial amount of the scheduled works has been completed For any other Action The activity was not completed during the course of the financial year as forecast as at 1 July 2019 but a substantial amount of work in furtherance of the activity has been undertaken If the Action relates to a Project The project is not completed and insufficient work was undertaken in relation to the project during the course of the financial year, having regard to the works forecast to be completed during this time as at 1 July 2019 Issues have been encountered in relation to completion of the project The project will be undertaken across several financial years but an insufficient amount of the works forecast to be completed during the 2019-2020 financial year were completed If the Action relates to a Compliance Action As at 30 June 2020, Council was non-compliant For any other Action Issues were encountered or the activity was not completed during the course of the financial year as forecast as at 1 July 2019 and insufficient work in furtherance of the activity was undertaken during the 2019-2020 financial year were completed For any other Action
During the course of the year, commencement of works in relation to the action was deferred to the 2020-2021 financial year
Set out on the following pages are details of our achievements.
Details are provided where an Action achieved a:
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Project Status as at 30 June 2020
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Project Status by Community Strategic Plan Objective
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AN INCLUSIVE, CARING COMMUNITY
Total Actions: 77 44 6 26 Rescheduled to next financial year: 1
Prioritising community safety, health and wellbeing C1.1 Review of the Shire's Crime Community Safety Officer has resigned from position. Update of Crime Prevention Plans Prevention Plan has not commenced due to lack of staff resources. C1.1 Fibre extension: Jellicoe Park to Planning and implementation of transportable CCTV pole has been the roundabout and south along implemented, this will provide the opportunity to expand image capture to a Frome and Anne Street broader selection of sites. Project re-budgeted for FY20/21. C1.1 Railway Lighting and CCTV Currently awaiting the completion of the CCTV prioritisation and extension management plan in coordination with ARTC's needs of coverage in the area. C1.2 Provide a safe service for sharps A slight reduction in numbers have been recorded according to the data disposal available to date however this is likely due to the cease in the collection program undertaken by Pius-X Medical Clinic.
C1.2 Conduct community education Due to COVID -19 restrictions, the education programs scheduled for Quarter programs 4 were postponed and will resume when Schools provide advice to do so. Alternate delivery methods to face to face are being investigated. C1.2 Undertake Shire-wide education Education program could not commence due to lack of staff resources. program relating to on-site waste Further investigation and development required in order to proceed to management systems recruitment process. C1.2 Regulation of food businesses Due to lack of staff resources and COVID-19 pandemic conditions, food premise inspections and education could not occur in Quarter 4. Advice and support provided to local food businesses upon request. C1.2 Control of skin penetration Due to lack of staff resources and COVID-19 Public Health Orders, skin procedures penetration inspections and education could not occur in Quarter 4. C1.2 Control of public swimming pools Due to lack of staff resources and the COVID-19 pandemic, inspections and and spa pools education could not occur in Quarter 4. C1.3 RFS Moree FCC Station During Quarter 3, this project has been the subject of an independent audit. The project involves the construction of a new RFS Moree Fire Control Centre Building. Awaiting MPSC Planning approval. Plan drawings require updating to reflect current changes. Kerb and Guttering due to commence in early Aug 20. Building frame up on its concrete slab and carpark 60% complete.
Demonstrate recognition, respect and inclusion C2.1 Multicultural development A multi-cultural event was scheduled to be held in Quarter 4, however, this has been indefinitely deferred due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Catering was supplied for the Waterloo Creek memorial in Feb 20. C2.1 Support multicultural activities Reconciliation week was cancelled and NAIDOC week has been postponed and initiatives of the New England until Nov 20 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. North West Regional Advisory Council C2.1 Review of Reconciliation Action The review of the RAP has been put on hold due to the departure of the Plan responsible officers.
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C2.2 Implementation of all actions for No further action has been undertaken since the departure of the previous the current financial year related Director of Corporate Services. to aboriginal employment by the Organisation as set out in the Reconciliation Action Plan C2.2 Implementation of all actions for No further action has been undertaken since the departure of the previous the current financial year related Director of Corporate Services. to aboriginal employment by the Organisation as set out in the Reconciliation Action Plan C2.2 South Moree Social Plan and Have commenced implementation of the South West Moree Social Plan and Moree South Masterplan are in the process of recommencing the South West Moree Working Party. Implementation C2.2 South Moree Social Plan – Due to lack of staff resources and COVID-19 meeting restrictions, no progress CSO/WDO Schemes in South has been made since Quarter 2 for CSO/WDO. Work has been undertaken to Moree form a partnership with Homes North and recommencing the South West Moree Working Party. C2.3 Moree South Masterplan Delayed due to determining adequate vandalism prevention to prolong life of assets. Topsoil and plants due to be placed in Cooee Park by end Quarter 1 FY19/20. Council to provide topsoil only. C2.3 Provide advocacy and support for Resource issues have resulted in non-compliance in this space. the outcomes of the Disability Inclusion Action Plan C2.3 Specialist Access Improvements - No progress made due to lack of staff resources. Project reprioritised. Victoria Terrace C2.4 Provide support for the conduct Seniors Week Program planned. Due to COVID-19 pandemic Seniors Week of Seniors' Week activities and program has been postponed until COVID-19 meeting restrictions lift. International Day of People with a Disability activities
Making our Shire more liveable C3.1 Ensure Gwydir Daycare and Still advertising for multiple positions including a ECT. Still struggling to Preschool satisfies the National maintain the adequate staffing ratios required to meet the NQF, Regulations Quality Framework and National Law. C3.2 Education Forum and Strategic Due to COVID-19 meeting restrictions and members not having access to Support suitable internet, no meetings were able to take place and therefore no progress was made. C3.2 Identify and support programs Due to COVID-19 meeting restrictions and members not having access to that improve/expand educational suitable internet, no meetings were able to take place and therefore no opportunities (in partnership with progress was made. government and non-government agencies) C3.4 Provide organisational support 3 youth targeted programs were able to be held prior to COVID-19 and funding for the conduct of restrictions being implemented. activities targeted at the Shire's youth C3.4 Moree Community Library - Local Scheduled events for Quarter 3 were postponed and approval received from Priority Grants the State Library of New South Wales to roll the grant funds over to FY20/21. Programs are ready to commence once COVID-19 meeting restrictions enable it. C3.4 Moree Civic Precinct Procurement package prepared, waiting to approach the market for a Redevelopment contractor. Scheduled Building Investigation studies were completed and discovered significant additional cost items which are critical to the progress of the originally scoped works.
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A VIBRANT REGIONAL ECONOMY
Total Actions: 60 49 4 7 Rescheduled to next financial year: 0
Keeping us connected E1.1 Rollover Project - Mungindi Additional grant opportunities identified for, applied for and successful. Aerodrome Rehabilitation Works have commenced. Project due to be completed in FY20/21. E1.3 MR507 Fixing Country Roads 35 kilometres of MR507 has been sealed. Only 20 kilometres remaining. Program (seal remaining 43km of Remaining budget to be rolled forward into FY20/21. gravel between Mungindi and Boomi) E1.3 Local – Unsealed Rural – Self Help Delays experienced due to road closure processing requirements and lack of Program staff resources. E1.3 Local – Sealed Rural – SR131 Sub-base preparation has commenced. Remaining budget to be rolled Croppa Creek Road Chainage forward into the FY20/21 Roads 2 Recovery funds to complete the works in (15.180 – 17.470) FY20/21. E1.3 Local – Sealed Urban – Moree – Kerb and guttering has been completed. Approximately 40% of the road has Chester St: Gwydir St to Heber St been sealed. Remaining budget to be rolled forward into the FY20/21 Roads 2 Recovery funds to complete the works in FY20/21.
Embracing businesses and a stronger economy E3.3 Rollover Project - Finalisation of Additional community consultation undertaken in Jun 18. The final draft of Economic Development Strategy the complimentary REDS document not available until Jul 18. Project rollover requested. Completion is scheduled for Quarter 2 FY20/21. E3.3 Implementation of Economic The actual Economic Development Strategy is yet to be adopted so actions Development Strategy underpinned by the Strategy are yet to be undertaken.
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SUSTAINABLE SPACES AND PLACES
Total Actions: 131 69 7 46 Rescheduled to next financial year: 9
Provide core utility services S2.1 Finalise and implement solid Strategy currently in draft form, review awaiting resourcing and the release waste management strategy of the EPA's 20-year Waste strategy, to align targets. Due to COVID-19, the strategy development has been delayed and likely to be released early in 2021. S2.1 Construction of the second half of The design, with ‘For Construction’ plans and associated documentation have the waste cell at Moree Landfill been completed and approved accordingly by the EPA. The Construction tender documentation and contract has been prepared and advertising commenced from 19/06/20, with closing scheduled for the 17/07/20 with the construction to occur in FY20/21.The delay in completion will not have any adverse implications however has allowed extensive planning and the opportunity to negotiate with the EPA a modified design which will result in significant costs savings. S2.1 Transfer Stations – Design, All sites environmental risk and condition audits have been completed and planning and construction mitigation options are being reviewed, in consultation with the EPA. Site concept designs and plans will be finalised this financial year in preparation for construction when required and to have “shelf ready” when further funding opportunities open through EPA environmental programs. S2.1 Design upgrades to village Permission obtained from Telstra to progress drainage works at Gurley, drainage inclusive of laneways which have already been designed. Draining works at Mungindi to be designed internally, due to commence once works have been completed at Gurley. S2.1 Prepare Stormwater Management Data was collated for all of Moree and Gateway in Quarter 2. Drafting is due Plan to commence in FY20/21. S2.1 Manhole Relining Project delayed due to COVID-19 border closures as both the contractor and materials can only be sourced from Queensland. Materials in transit, works due to commence in Jul 20. S2.1 Sewer Pump Station Repairs 8 sewer pump station condition assessments completed. Repair works scheduled to commence in Quarter 2 FY20/21. S2.1 Sewer Pump Station Electrical Condition assessor appointed and scheduled to commence site inspections in renewals Quarter 1 FY20/21. S2.1 Mungindi Sewer Treatment Plant Condition assessor appointed and scheduled to commence site inspections in Quarter 1 FY20/21, works scheduled to commence in Quarter 2 FY20/21. S2.1 Sewer Main Relining Procurement documentation completed. Appointing a contractor has been delayed as there is uncertainty in scheduling due to COVID-19 and state border closures. S2.1 Boundary Connection Renewals Procurement documentation completed. Appointing a contractor has been delayed as there is uncertainty in scheduling due to COVID-19 and state border closures. S2.1 Moree STP trade waste facility Project deferred until FY20/21 due to delays encountered by COVID-19 travel upgrade restrictions. S2.1 Mungindi Pasveer Repairs Contractor delayed due to COVID-19 state border closures. Works scheduled to commence in Quarter 2 FY20/21.
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S2.1 Installation of automatic meters Smart meters are custom made for each Council in Malaysia. These are the for effluent only suitable smart meters for Council's effluent systems. Due to COVID-19, these have been unable to be produced. Production is expected to recommence in FY20/21. S2.1 Review of village sewer ponds Project on hold due to high levels of evaporation.
S2.1 Water Meter Renewals 50mm smart meters are custom made for each Council in Malaysia. These are the only suitable smart meters for Council's water systems. Due to COVID-19, these have been unable to be produced. Production is expected to recommence in FY20/21. As at 30/06/20, Council has installed 1,850 smart meters which were all below 50mm and able to be sourced locally within Australia. S2.1 Mungindi Water Treatment Plant The Environmental Contractor is still composing the report of accompany the Reservoir Renewal – Investigation Local Government Act 1993 section 60 application to the NSW Department works of Planning, Industry and Environment in Quarter 2 FY20/21. If successful, this application will cover 60% of the costs of works for the Water Treatment Plant. S2.1 Mungindi Water Treatment Plant Scope of works has been determined. Awaiting confirmation of potential – Replacement of filters and funding through the Local Government Act 1993 section 60 application to the repair works NSW Department of Planning Industry and Environment. S2.1 Reservoirs – Repairs and Painting Scope of works has been determined. Awaiting specialist to be available to complete the works. Works scheduled to commence FY20/21. S2.1 Gwydirville South Water Main Tests bore sunk and proven sufficient yield. Project delayed due to NRAR Upgrade approval process. Project scheduled to commence Quarter 3 FY20/21. S2.1 Keams Rd Water Main Upgrade Tests bore sunk and proven sufficient yield. Project delayed due to NRAR approval process. Project scheduled to commence Quarter 3 FY20/21. S2.1 Pallamallawa Water Treatment Scope of works determined and works have commenced. Awaiting Plant – Laboratory Upgrade completion of Biniguy Town Water Supply Project to further progress. S2.3 Ashley Potable Water Supply Scope of works required to be reviewed. Water supply will now be piped from Moree. NSW Department of Planning, Industry and Environment will confirm funding of the pipeline in FY20/21. S2.3 Moree Water Security Project Insufficient yield generated from East Moree test bore. Have identified an alternative site at North Moree. Project ongoing in FY20/21. S2.1 Mehi Crescent – Automatic Water Inspections have been completed. COVID-19 restrictions have disabled any Meter Reading contractor from entering Mehi Cres. S2.1 Stanley Village Automatic Water Inspections have been completed. COVID-19 restrictions have disabled any Meter Reading contractor from entering Stanley Village. S2.1 Barton Plains Road Water Main Tests bore sunk and proven sufficient yield. Project delayed due to NRAR Upgrade approval process. Project scheduled to commence Quarter 3 FY20/21. S2.1 Brigalow Drive Road Water Main Tests bore sunk and proven sufficient yield. Project delayed due to NRAR Upgrade approval process. Project scheduled to commence Quarter 3 FY20/21. S2.1 Bullus Drive Reservoir Pump Tests bore sunk and proven sufficient yield. Project delayed due to NRAR Station approval process. Project scheduled to commence Quarter 3 FY20/21. S2.1 Newell Highway Water Main Tests bore sunk and proven sufficient yield. Project delayed due to NRAR approval process. Project scheduled to commence Quarter 3 FY20/21. S2.1 Boggabilla Water Treatment Plant Works commenced. Additional scope of works discovered. Scope of works – Shed and Carpark revaluated. Project delayed until FY20/21 when adequate budget is available. S2.2 Undertake a litter reduction Due to COVID -19 restrictions, the education campaign scheduled was program - Promote litter postponed and is anticipated to resume in Quarter 1 FY20/21. prevention in the Shire
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S2.2 Undertake a litter reduction Funding not received. program - Subject to receipt of funding, complete a litter reduction program including education and installation of additional infrastructure
Asset protection S3.1 Flood Plain Mitigation - Due to COVID-19 meeting restrictions, consultation for the Southern Levee Pallamallawa could not be completed. Grant application for the Northern Levee design review submitted and pending outcome. S3.1 Flood Plain Mitigation - Mungindi Design consultants delayed due to COVID-19 travel and meeting restrictions. A meeting could not be scheduled with the community and the Committee due to COVID-19 meeting restrictions. Consultants have completed the flood modelling and have developed a concept design for the levee upgrade. The Draft Final Report is currently being prepared, however has encountered significant delays due to COVID-19. S3.1 Flood Plain Mitigation - Moree Consultant has been engaged and has commenced familiarisation of Moree's flood history and modelling.
Enhancing and enjoying our environment S4.1 Jellicoe Park Project Scope of works and Dial Before You Dig Plans have been finalised and a contractor has been appointed. Works to commence in FY20/21. Barbecue has been purchased and is awaiting installation. S4.1 Ron Harborne – Western Oval Environmental approvals granted to clear, clean and remediate the area. Currently awaiting access licence to the area. S4.1 SCCF – Round 1 - Community Work has not yet commenced. Preliminary court inspections have indicated Recreational Facilities Upgrade – extensive cracking. An acrylic surface cannot be applied to the existing surface. Moree (Netball courts resurfacing) S4.1 Project management services for Construction and building certificates have been issued. Council continues to the construction of SHAE auspice funds only. Expenses have been allocated from the grant funds for this Academy building project in reserves. S4.1 SCCF – Round 2 – Community Inadequate funding for the proposed project as originally scoped. Mural Improvement Upgrades – Boomi completed on Boomi Preschool side; removable stairs have been provided; relocated hoist is now available. Audio visual equipment has been ordered. S4.1 SCCF – Round 2 – Moree PCYC Engineering assessment of structural integrity of Council building (which was Roofing and Climate Control to have roof replaced) has been undertaken. Footing works to be carried out in FY20/21. S4.1 Provision of municipal pool Due to COVID-19 the Mungindi Pool was closed from 23/03/20 per advice from operations at Mungindi the Minister for Health and Chief Medical Officer of NSW. This closure was confirmed via the Public Health (COVID-19 Restrictions on Gathering and Movement) Order 2020 on 30/03/20. The Mungindi Pool resumed Winter Season operations, with COVID-19 mitigation practises in place (including a limit on patron numbers) on 22/06/20. S4.2 Review Draft Parks Master Plan Due to legally required Strategic Plans taking priority of Strategic Planning 2011 for endorsement and resources, this action has been re-prioritised to occur at a later date. Works adoption are expected to commence on this review in Quarter 1 FY20/21. S4.3 Enforcement action and Option through EPA failed to go ahead. Agreement secured with NSW Fire and demolition of burnt-out buildings Rescue. Options through LGNSW and NSW Health being explored, while work continues on site assessment, risk rating and development of a best-practice procedure for clean-up of fire-damaged and derelict buildings and associated cost recovery. S4.4 Provide building certification Construction certificates could not be issued within 20 days due to lack of staff services within limits of and resources and lack of quality of submissions as often additional accreditation of staff information is required. File: 19/669 Moree Plains Shire Council Annual Report 30 June 2020 Doc: 2020/45031
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A LEADING ORGANISATION
Total Actions: 170 123 5 36 Rescheduled to next financial year: 6
Striving for business excellence L1.1 Ensure that the Organisation's Utilisation rates are reviewed as part of the justification for replacement or plant fleet is appropriate to meet new plant. Overall assessment completed at year end. operational requirements in the most cost effective manner - Major plant items have an annual utilisation rate of at least 85% L1.1 Ensure that the Organisation's Completion of new casual plant hire list will enable comprehensive review plant fleet is appropriate to meet and comparison of external and internal rates. Review to be completed operational requirements in the during year end process. most cost effective manner - Undertake annual comparison of internal vs external plant hire costs L1.1 Maintain register of material Good progress has been made on the development of the material contracts contracts of the Organisation register. For larger contracts, this is quite straightforward but for smaller pieces of work, this is challenging given how our procurement system is organised. L1.1 Test Business Contingency Plan This project has been rescheduled for FY20/21.
L1.1 Review and update CCTV Policy Delegations of the CCTV Policy and Procedures and operational control of and Procedures CCTV was determined in Quarter 2. Due to lack of staff resources, no further progress has been made. L1.1 Review the Councillor induction Due to COVID-19, the elections have been postponed to Sep 21, therefore and professional development this will be revisited in early 2021. programs L1.2 Review of section 94A Plan Due to legally required Strategic Plans taking priority of Strategic Planning resources, this action has been re-prioritised to occur at a later date. Works are expected to commence on this review in Quarter 1 FY20/21. L1.2 Provide statutory planning Several DA's delayed due to neighbour notification and elected Council services within statutory determination. timeframes L1.2 Provide statutory planning Not all s10.7 planning certificates could be issued within 7 days due to lack of services within statutory staff resources. timeframes L1.3 Repair/ replacement of Doors at Repairs to door runners completed in Quarter 2 to trial in lieu of Depot replacement. Further review on effectiveness to be undertaken. L1.3 Review Asset Management Plans Not completed due to other priority works taking a higher priority. for Council's infrastructure assets
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L1.3 Moree Cemetery – Construction Due to uncertainty surrounding the global COVID-19 pandemic restrictions, of Cemetery Extension laser levelling of the site will be deferred until FY20/21 and commenced closer to definite construction of the shed, compound and gravel road. Scope of works and specifications for shed and compound have been determined. FY19/20 Budget to be rolled forward to FY20/21.
L1.3 Moree Cemetery and Mungindi Contractor engaged. However, due to actual costs of construction, only the Cemetery – Construction of Mungindi Columbarium Wall could be completed with the budget for Columbarium Walls FY19/20. Construction was scheduled for Quarter 4 however this was delayed due to issues obtaining materials and COVID-19. L1.3 Maintain and upgrade Council Ability to perform maintenance was reduced in Quarter 4, due to the need to property and buildings redeploy maintenance staff to undertake works required to make Council work spaces COVIDsafe. L1.3 Undertake building maintenance Ability to perform maintenance was reduced in Quarter 4, due to the need to redeploy maintenance staff to undertake works required to make Council work spaces COVIDsafe. L1.3 MAAC – Chlorine Tank Bunding Works have been scoped and limitations encountered due to the size of the area and the works required. Funds to be rolled to FY20/21. L1.5 Lead meetings of the Risk 58 Actions remain outstanding in the RMG Action Plan. Management Group L1.5 Embed an Integrated Work Health This project has been pushed back to be completed by 31/12/20. Safety Framework L1.5 Chain of Responsibility Due to COVID-19 this project will not be completed in in FY19/20 as Compliance – Driver Awareness/ proposed and has been rolled over to next year. Fatigue Management L1.5 Prepare Organisation’s Progress on this has been affected by not having meetings due to COVID-19. Compliance Register Notwithstanding this, the register is nearing completion and is hoped to be finalised Quarter 1 FY20/21 L1.5 Disaster Recovery Plan – Electrical Although the power load required had been estimated by electricians the Connectivity and Generator installation of the planned electrical connection point has not proceeded due to generator requirements. In conjunction with P&D a plan was to be presented to Manex for the purchase and installation of a suitable generator on Council land at the rear of old chemist. L1.6 Investigate all third party Various staff engaged 15 non-compliant contractors in FY19/20, therefore contractors to ensure appropriate Council is non-compliant. licences, tickets, certificates and qualifications are held and maintained in respect to the relevant contract L1.6 Complete annual audit of The audit of Worksites was not completed for this FY19/20 due to staffing worksites demands and COVID-19. L1.6 Complete annual audit of As the Worksite Audit did not occur, corrective actions were not recorded for worksites actioning. L1.6 Provision of reports to MANEX As no Risk Management Group Meetings were held from April to June this report was not presented. L1.6 Provision of reports in relation to Due to COVID-19 and the ceasing of gatherings, RMG and WHS committee workplace injuries and other RTW was not meeting nor were reports being distributed during this period. matters L1.7 Refine Business Contingency Plan This project has been rescheduled for FY20/21.
L1.7 Implementation of Business The implementation of the Framework has been deferred until the vacant Excellence Framework Director of Corporate Services position is filled and a review can be undertaken.
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L1.7 Coordinate annual review of the No further meetings internally were able to be completed as a priority Organisation's manpower, budget matter. Budget referred to Council. and four year workforce planning L1.7 Undertake annual internal Partial results only received. Delays reported by external agencies due to benchmarking COVID-19. L1.7 Complete annual performance The General Manager's performance appraisal was delayed until Quarter 1 review of the General Manager FY20/21 due to COVID-19 meeting restrictions. L1.8 Provide efficient recruitment It should be noted that casuals were not on boarded as their use was not services (including induction and required. Some positions were delayed mid-recruitment due to COVID-19 exit procedures) and access to medicals and pre-employment assessments were constrained. Normal turn around resumed in June. L1.8 Audit of participation in induction Whilst the audit continued, the compliance level was extremely low. This was sessions and conduct of due to inability to host group inductions and to visit functions within Council probationary reviews to complete specific learning within probationary period. Council continues to explore remote resources to support new employees and continues to use resources such as LGNSW emote learning licences. L1.8 Undertaken exit reporting Cannot be completed until 30/06/20.
L1.8 Provide learning and development There was a significant disruption to training in Quarter 4 due to COVID-19. opportunities to employees in Some training was completed via alternate methods (remote learning). Other accordance with regulatory training could not occur at all. Statutory compliance training has remained requirements and training plans the priority however adaption to new methods such as using Zoom for traditionally outdoor hands on training requires additional resources including webcams, smaller groups in rooms, more support from staff for employees who are not familiar with on line learning, greater time and interaction between areas such as Information Services and the training organisation to ensure that training can run. Inability to use Zoom for training initially blocked Council from some options. How training is delivered into the future will continue to be a matter of resolution between training organisations and Council in compliance with health requirements but is likely to require additional funding.
Proactive leadership L2.1 Continue membership in Border Meetings in Quarter 4 were cancelled due to COVID-19 meeting restrictions. Region Organisation of Councils L2.1 Implementation of all actions The Community Safety Plan is due to be reviewed although due to staff related to the Organisation in the resourcing this has not commenced. Currently Council continues to complete Shire's Crime Prevention Plans set 70% of all suggested actions. out for the current financial year
Being informed, engaged and heard L3.1 Provide outreach Customer The Mobile Office and Library vehicle has been purchased, outfitting to be Services across the Shire completed Dec 20.
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Our Organisation Remuneration of Senior Staff Local Government (General) Regulation 2005 reg 217(1)(b): a statement of the total remuneration comprised in the remuneration package of the general manager during the year that is to include the total of the following— (i) the total value of the salary component of the package, (ii) the total amount of any bonus payments, performance payments or other payments made to the general manager that do not form part of the salary component of the general manager, (iii) the total amount payable by the council by way of the employer’s contribution or salary sacrifice to any superannuation scheme to which the general manager may be a contributor, (iv) the total value of any non-cash benefits for which the general manager may elect under the package, (v) the total amount payable by the council by way of fringe benefits tax for any such non-cash benefits
Local Government (General) Regulation 2005 reg 217(1)(c): a statement of the total remuneration comprised in the remuneration packages of all senior staff members (other than the general manager) employed during the year, expressed as the total remuneration of all the senior staff members concerned (not of the individual senior staff members) and including totals of each of the following— (i) the total of the values of the salary components of their packages, (ii) the total amount of any bonus payments, performance payments or other payments made to them that do not form part of the salary components of their packages, (iii) the total amount payable by the council by way of the employer’s contribution or salary sacrifice to any superannuation scheme to which any of them may be a contributor, (iv) the total value of any non-cash benefits for which any of them may elect under the package, (v) the total amount payable by the council by way of fringe benefits tax for any such non-cash benefits
Under the definitions of the Act only one (1) staff member of Moree Plains Shire Council, the General Manager, is classed as a senior staff member. At 30 June 2020, the General Manager’s remuneration package (including salary, motor vehicle and superannuation) totalled $271,891. Overseas Visits Local Government (General) Regulation 2005 reg 217(1)(a): For the purposes of section 428(4)(b) of the Act, an annual report of a council is to include the following information- details (including the purpose) of overseas visits undertaken during the year by councillors, council staff or other persons while representing the council (including visits sponsored by other organisations)
No overseas visits were undertaken by Councillors, Council staff or other persons representing Council (including visits sponsored by other organisations) during this financial year.
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Mayoral and Councillor Fees, Expenses and Facilities and Training Local Government (General) Regulation 2005 reg 217(1)(a1): details of the total cost during the year of the payment of the expenses of, and the provision of facilities to, councillors in relation to their civic functions (as paid by the council, reimbursed to the councillor or reconciled with the councillor), including separate details on the total cost of each of the following— (i) the provision during the year of dedicated office equipment allocated to councillors on a personal basis, such as laptop computers, mobile telephones and landline telephones and facsimile machines installed in councillors’ homes (including equipment and line rental costs and internet access costs but not including call costs), (ii) telephone calls made by councillors, including calls made from mobile telephones provided by the council and from landline telephones and facsimile services installed in councillors’ homes, (iii) the attendance of councillors at conferences and seminars, (iiia) the provision of induction training for councillors, supplementary induction training for mayors and professional development programs for mayors and other councillors, (iv) other training of mayors and councillors and the provision of skill development for mayors and councillors, (v) interstate visits undertaken during the year by councillors while representing the council, including the cost of transport, the cost of accommodation and other out-of-pocket travelling expenses, (vi) overseas visits undertaken during the year by councillors while representing the council, including the cost of transport, the cost of accommodation and other out-of-pocket travelling expenses, (vii) the expenses of any spouse, partner (whether of the same or the opposite sex) or other person who accompanied a councillor in the performance of his or her civic functions, being expenses payable in accordance with the Guidelines for the payment of expenses and the provision of facilities for Mayors and Councillors for Local Councils in NSW prepared by the Director-General from time to time, (viii) expenses involved in the provision of care for a child of, or an immediate family member of, a councillor, to allow the councillor to undertake his or her civic functions
The total amount of fees paid to the Mayor and Councillors for the year was $135,969.60. Councillors each received a fee of $12,159.96, with the Mayor receiving an additional fee of $26,529.96.
The total amount spent on Councillors’ fees, the provision of Councillor facilities and payment of Councillor expenses for the year was $158,000 compared to $150,671.41 in the 2018/2019 financial year.
Details of Mayor and Councillors’ fees, expenses and facilities ($) Elected Provision of Office Conferences Specific Mayor Fees Member Equipment and Accommodation Travel Totals and Seminars Training Fees Phones Cr J Cassells - $12,159 $990 - $768 - $59 $13,976 Cr G Chiu - $12,159 - $451 $288 $300 $17 $27,191 Cr J Crawford - $12,159 - $451 $288 - - $26,113 Cr K Humphries $26,529 $12,159 $938 - $768 $565 $4,457 $58,314 Cr M Montgomery - $12,159 - $451 $288 $1,188 $1,606 $61,108 Cr S Price - $12,159 $1,127 $451 $288 - $2,381 $32,098 Cr S Ritchie - $12,159 - $451 $768 $300 - $30,084 Cr G Smith - $12,159 $724 $451 $288 - $2,384 $29,684 Cr J Tramby - $12,159 $995 $451 - $806 $42 $30,459 All Councillors $26,529 $109,431 $4,775 $3,157 $3,744 $3,160 $10,948 $309,027
A copy of Council’s policy on the payment of expenses and provision of facilities for Mayor and Councillors is available on Council’s website: www.mpsc.nsw.gov.au or can be obtained from any Council office.
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Councillor Training Holding an elected office in a council carries significant responsibilities. All councillors owe it to the communities that they serve to ensure that they hold and maintain the skills necessary to exercise their functions effectively on behalf of the community. Mayors and councillors are ultimately accountable to the community that elects them for the performance of their functions. Therefore, Council is required to publicly report on the participation of the Mayor and councillors in the council’s induction and professional development programs during the year in the Annual Report.
As the following training sessions and conferences were scheduled to be held in the second half of the 2020 financial year, none were able to be attended due to the COVID-19 travel and meeting restrictions.
LGNSW Legal LGNSW Developing 2020 LGNSW Western Division NFA Future Focused Responsibilities Capabilities Conference Conference Conference Cr J Cassells - - - - - Cr G Chiu - - - - - Cr J Crawford - - - - - Cr K Humphries - - - - - Cr M Montgomery - - - - - Cr S Price - - - - - Cr S Ritchie - - - - - Cr G Smith - - - - - Cr J Tramby - - - - - All Councillors - - - - -
Legal Proceedings Local Government (General) Regulation 2005 reg 217(1)(a3): a summary of the amounts incurred by the council during the year in relation to legal proceedings taken by or against the council (including amounts, costs and expenses paid or received by way of out of court settlements, other than those the terms of which are not to be disclosed) and a summary of the state of progress of each legal proceeding and (if it has been finalised) the result
Council incurs legal expenses for such things as the purchase and sale of land and assets, debt collection, Weight of Loads prosecutions, and preparation of leases and subdivisions. Costs are also incurred for legal advice on planning and environmental matters, employment issues, liability issues and corporate governance. Much of the expenditure in relation to both debt recovery and Weight of Loads prosecutions is recovered from those persons against whom action has been taken.
Legal expenses of $1,489,000 were incurred during the financial year ended 30 June 2020 and are summarised below.
Other Party Dispute Status Costs Incurred ($) Various Planning and Development Complete $3,000 Various Debt Recovery Ongoing $74,000 Various Other (Governance, HR Weight of Loads, Leases) Complete $1,412,000
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Partnerships, Co-operatives and Joint Ventures involving Council Local Government (General) Regulation 2005 reg 217(1)(a8): a statement of all corporations, partnerships, trusts, joint ventures, syndicates or other bodies (whether or not incorporated) in which the council participated during that year
Moree Plains Shire Council is involved in the following partnerships and cooperatives:
North West Weight of Loads Group This group enforces the Roads Act 1993 and limits (weights) on vehicles using public roads. The objective of this group is to reduce road maintenance costs.
Border Regional Organisation of Councils This organisation consists of councils that are demographically and geographically similar to Moree Plains Shire Council. Members of BROC seek to gain economies of scale through joint tendering procedures and resource sharing.
Big Sky Libraries The Big Sky Libraries offers free membership, an interlibrary loan service, public Internet access, children’s programs and other events throughout the year. Member shires include Brewarrina, Moree Plains and Walgett, with libraries in Brewarrina, Lightning Ridge, Moree, Mungindi and Walgett.
Melbourne to Brisbane Inland Rail Alliance (“MBIRA”) Moree Plains Shire Council is an Executive Member of MBIRA and has been fundamentally involved in lobbying all levels of government in relation to the development of this nation building project.
State-wide Road Safety Initiative “Free Cuppa for the Driver” Moree Plains Shire Council participated in the sixth phase of the Free Cuppa for the Driver scheme which is also implemented across the Balranald, Bathurst, Berrigan, Bland, Blayney, Cabonne, Cootamundra-Gundagai, Dubbo, Forbes, Gilgandra, Hay, Lachlan, Leeton, Murrumbidgee, Narrabri, Narranderra, Orange, Parkes, Wagga Wagga, Warrumbungle, Wellington and Wentworth council areas and is supported financially by Roads and Maritime Services (RMS). The scheme encourages visiting drivers to stop at any of the 95 participating businesses for a free cup of tea or coffee so as to take a break from driving long distances. The councils' and RMS provide the scheme's promotional material and marketing while the participating businesses provide the 'free cuppa'.
New England Joint Organisation Currently, Moree Plains Shire Council has joined with Armidale Regional Council, Glenn Innes Severn Council, Inverell Shire Council, Tenterfield Shire Council, Narrabri Shire Council and Uralla Shire to form the New England Joint Organisation (NEJO). The NEJO Board is made up of the Mayors of each member council. The NEJO Advisory Committee is made up of the General Managers or Chief Executive Officers of each member council. Both the NEJO Board and Advisory Committee meet quarterly. More information about joint organisations is available on the NEJO website: https://nejo.nsw.gov.au/ .
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External Bodies Exercising Council Functions Local Government (General) Regulation 2005 reg 217(1)(a6): a statement of all external bodies that during that year exercised functions delegated by the council
During the 2019/20 financial year, no external bodies exercised functions delegated by Council.
The Moree Plains Gallery, Tourism Moree and the Rural Fire Service do not exercise functions delegated by Council. Instead, they operate under a Service Agreement between Council and the relevant incorporated bodies. The Agreements provide for a fixed level of funding over the four (4) years of the agreement in return for services to the community. Planning Agreements Environment Planning and Assessment Act 1979 s 7.5G(5): A planning authority that has entered into one or more planning agreements must, while any such planning agreements remain in force, include in its annual report particulars of compliance with and the effect of the planning agreements during the year to which the report relates
Council did not enter into any Planning Agreements in 2019/2020. Section 355 Committees Details of the Councillor membership of Moree Plains Shire Council’s Section 355 Committees has been provided on under Our Councillors on pages 25 to 31 of this report. Companies in which Council held a Controlling Interest Local Government (General) Regulation 2005 reg 217(1)(a7): a statement of all corporations, partnerships, trusts, joint ventures, syndicates or other bodies (whether or not incorporated) in which the council (whether alone or in conjunction with other councils) held a controlling interest during that year
In the 2019/20 financial year, Moree Plains Shire Council held a controlling interest in the Moree Artesian Aquatic Centre Limited, a public company limited by guarantee, with the Council being the sole member of that company.
Other than as specified above, the Council held no controlling interests in any company, whether alone or in conjunction with other councils. Rates and Charges Written Off Local Government (General) Regulation 2005 reg 132: The council’s annual report must include the amount of rates and charges written off during the year
Rates and charges of $42,153.37 were written off in the 2019/20 financial year. No sale of land for unpaid rates auction was held in 2019/20.
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Competitive Neutrality In April 1995, representatives of the Commonwealth and all state and territory governments met and ratified the National Competition Policy. The policy is aimed at increasing consumer and business choice, reducing cost, improving competitiveness and lowering prices.
A major reform required by the policy is the separation of non-contestable regulatory and other functions from those commercial activities that can be subject to competition.
Major activities that can be subjected to competition are classified as category one. Reporting on these activities, including all support costs assigned, is required in order to determine what their total cost would be if they operated as a private business. This includes estimating the total taxes that would be paid if the operations were not a Council activity.
Moree Plains Shire Council has identified the following businesses for the purposes of competitive neutrality.
Category 1 Business Activities • Water • Sewerage
Category 2 Business Activities • Waste Management • Gwydir Day Care and Preschool • Moree Aerodrome • The Max Centre.
Competitive Neutrality Pricing Requirements The pricing and costing guidelines outline the process for identifying and allocating costs to activities and provide a standard of disclosure requirements. These disclosures are reflected in Council’s pricing and/or financial reporting systems and include tax equivalents, council subsidies, return on investment (rate of return) and dividends paid. These competitive neutrality requirements have been applied to the special purpose reports for Category 1 and 2 activities.
Complaints Handling Council has a process in place for the handling of competitive neutrality complaints. All written complaints are registered and assigned to designated staff to respond. Council’s Records Section monitors the progress of responses to ensure that they are finalised. In addition, complaints are reviewed quarterly as to whether they fall into the category of a competitive neutrality complaint. A unitary customer request system has been installed in all areas of Council. This has greatly improved the efficiency of the process and provided enhanced information for better monitoring.
Competitive Neutrality Complaints Council received no new competitive neutrality complaints during the 2019/20 financial year.
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Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009 Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009 s 125(1): Each agency (other than a Minister) must, within 4 months after the end of each reporting year, prepare an annual report on the agency’s obligations under this Act for submission to the Minister responsible for the agency. A copy of the report is to be provided to the Information Commissioner after the report has been tabled in each House of Parliament.
Government Information (Public Access) Regulation 2018 reg 8: The annual report of an agency (other than a Minister) required to be prepared under section 125 of the Act must include the following— (a) details of the review carried out by the agency under section 7 (3) of the Act during the reporting year and the details of any information made publicly available by the agency as a result of the review, (b) the total number of access applications received by the agency during the reporting year (including withdrawn applications but not including invalid applications), (c) the total number of access applications received by the agency during the reporting year that the agency refused, either wholly or partly, because the application was for the disclosure of information referred to in Schedule 1 to the Act (Information for which there is conclusive presumption of overriding public interest against disclosure), (d) information, as set out in the form required by the tables in Schedule 2, relating to the access applications (if any) made to the agency during the reporting year
The Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009 (“GIPA Act”) replaced the Freedom of Information Act 1989 on 1 July 2010. The GIPA Act provides four (4) ways for government information to be released:
1. Open access information We publish certain categories of information on our website as a matter of course; this is known as Open Access Information. If not published, the information is still accessible either for free or for the lowest cost possible. Open Access Information includes details of contracts, policies and development applications, as well as many other categories of information.
2. Proactive release We release as much other information as possible to the public free of charge and publish as much as possible on our website.
3. Informal release of information Members of the public may contact us and ask for information. This is known as an informal request.
4. Formal access application for release of information If information cannot be accessed through any of the above ways, members of the public may submit a formal access application. This report provides an account of our work for the period 1 July 2019 to 30 June 2020. During this time the focus of our activities was to meet the requirements of the GIPA Act and to establish simple processes for dealing with the informal release of information and with access applications.
The following documents relevant to the GIPA Act have been published on our website: Formal Access to Information Application form Disclosure Log.
Our focus for the 2019/2020 financial year was to continue to strengthen our compliance with the GIPA Act and to ensure that we work with key stakeholders to develop and maintain a suitable framework for the provision of information to interested members of the public.
Statistical Information about access applications
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The Council received three formal access applications during the reporting year. This reflects an effort by the organisation to move away from requiring formal applications for development application requests.
Number of applications by type of applicant and outcome* * More than one decision can be made in respect of a particular access application. Applicant Outcome Refuse to Access Access Access Information Refuse to confirm/ Information Application granted granted refused already deal with deny not held withdrawn in full in part in full available application whether
information is held Media 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Members of 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Parliament
Private Sector 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Business
Not for Profit 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Organisations or Community Groups Members of The 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 Public (Application By Legal Representative) Members of The 2 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 Public (Other)
Number of applications by type of application and outcome* * More than one decision can be made in respect of a particular access application. Applicant Outcome Refuse to Access Access Access Information Refuse to confirm/ Information Application granted granted refused already deal with deny not held withdrawn in full in part in full available application whether
information is held Media 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Personal 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 information applications* Access 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 applications (other than personal information applications) Access 0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 applications that are partly personal information applications and partly other * A personal information application is an access application for personal information (as defined in clause 4 of Schedule 4 of the GIPA Act) about the applicant (the applicant being an individual). File: 19/669 Moree Plains Shire Council Annual Report 30 June 2020 Doc: 2020/45031
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Invalid applications Reason For Invalidity No of Applications Application does not comply with formal requirements (section 41 of the GIPA Act) 0 Application contravenes restraint order (section 110 of the GIPA Act) 0 Application is for excluded information of the agency (section 43 of the GIPA Act) 0 Total number of invalid applications received 0 Invalid applications that subsequently became valid applications 0
Government Conclusive Presumption of Overriding Public Interest Against Disclosure: Matters Listed in Schedule 1 of the GIPA Act* *More than one public interest consideration may apply in relation to a particular access application and, if so, each such consideration is to be recorded (but only once per application). Number of Times Consideration Used* Overriding secrecy laws 0 Cabinet information 0 Executive Council information 0 Contempt 0 Legal professional privilege 0 Excluded information 0 Documents affecting law enforcement and public safety 0 Transport safety 0 Adoption 0 Care and protection of children 0 Ministerial code of conduct 0 Aboriginal and environmental heritage 0
Other Public Interest Considerations Against Disclosure: Matters Listed Section 14 of the GIPA Act* *More than one public interest consideration may apply in relation to a particular access application and, if so, each such consideration is to be recorded (but only once per application).
Number of occasions when application not successful Responsible and effective government 0 Law enforcement and security 0 Individual rights, judicial processes and natural justice 0 Business interests of agencies and other persons 0 Environment, culture, economy and general matters 0 Secrecy provisions 0 Exempt documents under interstate Freedom of Information legislation 0
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Timeliness Number of applications Decided within the statutory timeframe (20 days plus any extensions) 3 Decided within 20–35 days (by agreement with applicant) 0 Decided after 35 days (by agreement with applicant) 0 Not decided within time but access ultimately provided 0 Not decided within time (deemed refusal) 0 Total 3
Number of Applications Reviewed Under Part 5 of the GIPA Act * *The Information Commissioner does not have the authority to vary decisions, but can make recommendations to the original decision- maker. The data in this case indicates that a recommendation to vary or uphold the original decision has been made by the Information Commissioner. Decision Decision Type Of Review And Outcome Total varied upheld Internal review 1 0 1 Review by Information Commissioner* 0 0 0 Internal review following recommendation under section 93 of Act 0 0 0 Review by ADT 0 0 0 Total 1 0 1
Applications for Review Under Part 5 of the GIPA Act Number of applications for review (by type of applicant) Applications by access applicants 1 Applications by persons to whom information the subject of access application 0 relates (see GIPA Act s 54)
Privacy and Personal Information Protection Act 1998 Our Privacy Management Plan was adopted in 2020.
The Council collects and holds personal information for the purpose of carrying out its functions under the Local Government Act 1993 and facilitating the operation of other Acts of Parliament. We take all reasonable steps to protect all personal information from misuse, loss or from unauthorised access, modification or disclosure.
This information may be disclosed to Government, Regulatory Authorities and Council contractors or where there is a legislated requirement. Otherwise, information held will only be disclosed or amended upon receipt of written instructions from the client or from parties authorised to act on their behalf.
Please note that everyone has the right to access their own personal information subject to some exceptions permitted by law.
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Public Interest Disclosures Act 1994 Public Interests Disclosures Act 1994 s 31(1): Each public authority must, within 4 months after the end of each reporting year, prepare an annual report on the public authority’s obligations under this Act for submission to the Minister responsible for the public authority. A copy of the report is to be provided to the Ombudsman
The Public Interest Disclosures Act 1994 No 92 (“PID Act”), formerly the Protected Disclosures Act 1994, sets in place a system to encourage public officials to report serious wrongdoing. The public interest disclosures system relates to the disclosure of:
Corrupt conduct, Serious maladministration Serious and substantial waste Failure to comply with the system through which people can access government information A breach of the local government pecuniary interest requirements.
For more information on the Public Interest Disclosures Act 1994 No 92, visit the NSW Ombudsman’s website: http://www.ombo.nsw.gov.au/what-we-do/our-work/public-interest-disclosures .
Council is required to report Public Interest Disclosures (“PIDs”) in accordance with the PID Act on a six-monthly basis to the NSW Ombudsman and to ensure that a policy and system of reporting is developed with employees, Councillors and stakeholders educated in relation to the PID Act. Moree Plains Shire Council has fully complied with these requirements and has fully reviewed and updated the relevant policies, procedures and information systems. Council has also provided and completed ICAC training for Managers and relevant Officers in corruption prevention and procurement.
The Governance Coordinator reports to ICAC each six months about our compliance with the PID Act and PID reports. There have been no reports this year.
The HR Officers, Human Resource Manager, Executive Assistant to the General Manager and Mayor and Commercial Services/Risk Manager are all trained PID Officers whilst the Governance Coordinator is responsible for co-ordination and management of PID on behalf of the General Manager.
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Companion Animals Act and Regulation – Enforcement and Compliance Local Government (General) Regulation 2005 reg 217(1)(f): a detailed statement, prepared in accordance with such guidelines as may be issued by the Director-General from time to time, of the council’s activities during the year in relation to enforcing, and ensuring compliance with, the provisions of the Companion Animals Act 1998 and the regulations under that Act
This statement is prepared in accordance with section 428 of the Act which requires Council to report their activities during the year relating to enforcement and ensuring compliance with the Companion Animals Act 1998 and Regulations.
The following actions are currently in place:
Lodgement of pound data collection returns is conducted annually in accordance with section 13 and 13.11 of the Guidelines on the Exercise of Functions under the Companion Animal Act 1998 and is provided to the Office of Local Government by 30 September each year. All dog attack data is submitted to the Office of Local Government by entries into the Companion Animal Register when sufficient evidence has been collected to substantiate the dog attack. Companion Animal community education programs and strategies including: - Distributing information brochures on Responsible Dog and Cat Ownership and Barking Dogs to the community; - Ongoing provision of information about cheaper registration fees for de-sexed animals; - Providing Companion Animal education to the public through both face-to-face contact at a customer service level at Moree Plains Shire Council customer service desk, and telephone contact on a daily basis; - Ongoing monitoring of companion animal compliance within Council’s parks and reserves and conducting micro-chipping days at various locations across the Shire; and - Continuing to apply for grants when available to carry out de-sexing, micro-chipping and animal education throughout the various towns and villages within the Shire. In order to comply with the requirements under section 64 of the Act to seek alternatives to euthanasia for unclaimed animals, the Council has the following strategies in place: - All identified owners are telephoned within 48 hours and advised that their animal has been impounded; and - Impounded unidentified animals suitable for re-homing are passed on to the Animal Welfare League animal rescue organisation (subject to them having enough room available), which advertises the animals for sale in the local media and cares for the animals until new homes are found. Should the Animal Welfare League animal rescue organisation not have the facilities to accept any new pound /shelter animals from Council’s facility then those animals are euthanised. Council currently has one ‘off leash’ exercise area at Carbeen Park, Moree (interim facility).
A review of operational procedures and policies is currently being undertaken to improve efficiencies and provide consistency with the delivery of our Ranger services. Enforcement processes are being streamlined to ensure compliance with the Regulations.
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Equal Employment Opportunity Initiatives Local Government (General) Regulation 2005 reg 217(1)(a9): a statement of the activities undertaken by the council during that year to implement its equal employment opportunity management plan
Council supports and implements the principles of Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) by recognising and valuing diversity within the workplace. This is achieved through workplace policies, practices and behaviours that are fair and non-discriminatory.
Program/Activity Description School based Council continues to actively support the intake of school based trainees annually. These are traineeships promoted annually to areas within the organisation where future skills pathways are required. EEO Contact Officer Council continues to support the training and promotion of a minimum of four (4) Contact Officers across the organisation. Reconciliation Action Council completed its reconciliation action plan (RAP) which was launched in May 2014 and is Plan (RAP) reviewed through the RAP committee. Implementation is documented through the Director of Corporate Services. Currently review of the RAP is on hold, with a draft RAP in place in the interim. Aboriginal participation rate within Moree Plains Shire Council is at 20.3% which has satisfied the goal set in 2010 for 20% participation by 2020. EEO training for all An online induction module is included to train all staff upon entry. new staff and Bi-annual training (face to face) with the Anti-discrimination board is hosted at Council and staff supervisors review this area of development at least every five (5) years. EEO refresher training Council added online training modules in ethical behaviours comprising Code of Conduct, Bullying and Harassment Prevention, Equal Employment Opportunity and Privacy. These are provided to all new employees at induction and on a five (5) year rotation to ensure currency of knowledge. EEO awareness Posters and information booklets were circulated to all lunch rooms. ADB Electronic Newsletter is circulated upon receipt. EEO appears as an agenda topic at all team meetings. Access to employment Access to employment with Council has been promoted via the bi-monthly ‘Applying for jobs at with Council Council’ information sessions, reviews with job networks, advertising regionally and locally, and utilisation of university and tourism web pages and brochures. Annual sessions with Job Networks occur to ensure they are fully up to date to best engage with job seekers seeking employment with Council. One on one consultations and barrier elimination are reviewed regularly. Community Service Orders are in operation at the Waste Management Facility. Council has worked with Best Employment to promote work opportunities in Mungindi. Council is working actively with Best Employment to seek participants in a “pathways to employment program” with the Moree Community Library. Council has implemented casual youth roles at the Moree Community Library where funds are available from unfilled SBATS each year. Council works closely with organisations such as TAFE to provide support such as Mock interviews, work experience and information sessions. Support sessions adapted from direct face to face groups during COVID-19 to more remote methods.
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Program/Activity Description Online recruitment Council moved to 100% on line applications in December 2013. Training for staff in the Moree Community Library, and Mungindi office has been supplied to support applicants. Council’s online recruitment platform moved to Scout in 2019 and has made online applications simpler. Council can tailor the requirements of the system in accordance with the needs of the role. Applicants can still contact HR and bring in documents if they need further support. Basic literacy Council continues to provide support to all employees in basic literacy, numeracy and computer skills. Enhanced computer literacy has also been worked on with 1:1 tailored sessions through community college. Aboriginal The percentage of Council workers who identify as being Aboriginal has reached 20.3% at the Employment end of the 2019 financial year with changes due to completion of traineeships/ intake and exits. Council continues to report high participation rates but has not been involved in benchmarking this year. Projects from HR were not submitted to Council this year for future work due to COVID-19 disruption and a roll over budget.
Benchmarking and Council reviewed its data using the sample set established by LG NSW however decided to do data this for internal use only. This is due to the cost of participating in the external benchmarking versus the low cohort using this system at the moment. Council will only pay for the external data once in each workforce planning cycle. A recommendation to move to the Australasian benchmarking system was made previously but has not been adopted by Manex at this time. This benchmarking provides for broader and more reliable data. Continue to utilise job These arrangements include the ability to return to work part-time after having a baby up until share and part-time the child is of school age, staggered retirements, and job shares required by people for a variety work arrangements of reasons. EEO Management Plan The EEO Management Plan was updated and is in draft format awaiting the General Manager’s performance reviews and inclusion of any relevant targets set within. One project budget was specifically linked to balancing of EEO in areas across Council and making more traineeships accessible to targeted areas as an investment in skills development and employment for the future. As noted project budgets were not advanced due to COVID-19 budget roll over. Updated Policies MPSC opted in to the “COVID-19 Splinter Award” to manage industrial arrangements for 12 months. The 2020 Award was adopted commencing the 1st July 2020. As such HR policies now commence their review cycle in 2020/2021. Extended the use of Council continues to access Smart and Skilled Funding, new entrant employee funding., Elsa funded training Dixon Funding and is reviewing Local Government Skill Shortage Funding. Training needed for community engagement via social media was identified by Skills IQ as a key development area for LG and MPSC sort funding has been completed a Statement of Attainment in Digital Media for 12 employees. MPSC workforce plan, internal and external data also identified the need for further development in the space of leadership and management. Council successfully achieved funding for 12 staff to complete a cluster of identified competencies in this area. Training in plant and operational areas has continued to be accessed routinely. Workforce Plan Development of this for 2020 was delayed with the IPR Cycle/and elections. COVID-19 has brought with it new considerations for our future which now must be considered within our planning.
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Our Community Services and Programs that Provide for the Needs of Older People and People with Disabilities
All our projects take into consideration, as a matter of course, the special needs of people with disabilities. Since the adoption of the Disability Inclusion Action Plan (“DIAP”) in 2017, Council has been actively working through the DIAP to achieve the desired outcomes to enhance inclusive activities and accessibility. Infrastructure works, such as mobility friendly roundabouts, have been installed and the formation of the Disability Network Group, still continue to make improvements to the shire. These accomplishments display Council’s commitment to the DIAP and its goal to provide an inclusive environment for community members of all abilities.
Program/Activity Description Capital Works We continually recognise and address access issues for people with disabilities. These initiatives are carried out as part of our works program. Moree Aboriginal We provide a meeting and office space at the Dhiiyaan Aboriginal Centre to enable a Moree Elders Group Meeting Aboriginal Elders Group to conduct the cultural business of Aboriginal Elders in Moree. Place Support for volunteers We acknowledge and facilitate the work of local volunteers every year through our strong participation for Volunteer of the Year Awards during Australia Day activities Home delivery of Library staff visit retirement homes and make home deliveries to house-bound residents. library materials Seniors’ Week We recognise, support and promote Senior’s Week activities each year with a variety of activities in partnership with community agencies. Road Safety Action Recognising the special needs of older road users, we incorporate these needs and Plan considerations into our annual Road Safety Action Plan. Broadband for Seniors ‘Broadband for Seniors’ kiosks are set up at Mungindi, Boggabilla and Moree Libraries. International Day of Council recognise and celebrate the achievements made by people with a disability through the People with Disability provision of financial support to a local disability group to co-host the International Day of People with Disability. Disability Action Plan The Disability Action Plan was completed in 2017 and a committee has been formed from services and consumers for the purpose of providing ongoing information around needs to Council
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Financial Assistance Local Government (General) Regulation 2005 reg 217(1)(a5): the total amount contributed or otherwise granted under section 356 of the Act
During the 2019/20 financial year, Council allocated $20,500 through annual sponsorship and made donations of $35,075.59 assisting a total number of 15 projects, individuals or organisations across the Shire.
Annual Sponsorship Annual School Presentations $3,000.00 Moree and District Band $5,000.00 Moree Caledonian Society Pipe Band $5,000.00 Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service $5,000.00 Royal Far West $2,500.00
Quarterly Donations Aboriginal Elders Olympics $3,000.00 2019 Mungindi Show $2,000.00 Moree Motor Trade Expo $2,000.00 Custom Post Pads $2,000.00 Spring Fair Banner $1,000.00 NSW ICPA 2020 Conference $3,000.00 Teams Throwdown Comp $2,000.00 Moree Portrait Prize $1,000.00 Local Concerts $3,000.00 2020 Moree Show $3,000.00 Military Memorial Mural $3,000.00 Men's Shed Opening BBQ $1,200.00 Moree Arts Community Theatre $3,000.00 Challenge Community Services $2,875.59 Moree District Band $3,000.00
Further, due to an annual financial contribution from the Moree Solar Farm Pty Ltd, Council is able to contribute money or otherwise grant financial assistance to groups or organisations in accordance with the Council resolution.
Group or Organisation Northern Gomeroi Aboriginal Corporation $12,700.00 Moree & District Historical Society $12,700.00
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Our Economy and Infrastructure Condition of Public Assets
Asset condition key: Public Buildings Council owns and operates a large number of buildings for its own 1. Excellent condition operations and associated uses, including five dwellings, offices 2. Good condition and depots, a day care centre, amenities buildings at swimming 3. Average condition pools and ovals, a Tourist Information Centre, an art gallery and a 4. Poor condition library. 5. Very poor condition The buildings are of various ages and conditions and a number are showing distress due to age and foundation movements. Buildings are maintained to an acceptable level commensurate with their use. Council’s public buildings include the Moree Memorial Hall, Banquet Hall, seven village halls, and 17 toilet blocks.
Many of the public halls are old timber buildings and maintenance is often limited to essential repairs with the local committee encouraged to carry out additional maintenance. The financial responsibility for maintaining these structures is spread between Council (directly); care, control and management groups to Council (section 355 Committees) and direct leases to selected groups.
Roads, Bridges, Footpaths (paved), and Kerb and Guttering We have responsibility for the maintenance of 2,842.73km of public roads. Of this length of roadway. 850.25km is sealed and 1,992.48km is unsealed.
We are also responsible for 42.89km of footpath, 127.24km of kerb and gutter.
In addition, we are responsible for all local and regional road bridges and major culverts. There are 71 vehicular bridges and major culverts and one pedestrian bridge in the Shire. Of these, 66 are concrete bridges and major culverts, 5 are timber bridges and 1 is a steel truss bridge.
Stormwater Drainage We are responsible for more than 30km of underground stormwater pipes, 220 headwalls, 1217 Stormwater pits, more than 9km of levee bank, 6 penstocks and 4 gross pollutant traps.
Water Supply Assets Moree Plains Shire Council is responsible for the maintenance and operation of 144km of water mains, 13 sub- artesian drinking water quality bores, 2 non-potable water bores (at Mungindi and Garah), 2 off-river dam storages for non-potable (not suitable for drinking) water (at Weemelah and Garah), 12 reservoirs, 4 water towers, and 6 water treatment plants. Council is not responsible for the maintenance of the on-river weirs on the Barwon and Macintyre Rivers. Nor is it responsible for the two non-potable artesian bores serving the villages of Gurley and Boomi.
Sewerage Assets Moree Plains Shire Council is responsible for the maintenance of 112km of sewerage mains, 30 sewerage pump stations with 61 pumps and four treatment works.
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Special Rate Levies A special rate may be levied for works or services provided or proposed to be provided by council, for example, town improvement works benefiting a specific locality (for example Industrial Drive). A special rate was set at $37,000 affecting 43 assessments starting in 2006 contributing to half the repayment of this loan.
In May 2005 Council borrowed $550,000 (10 year maturing 15 May 2015) to construct the Industrial Drive road. Repayments of $37,204.12 were made by-annually in May and November ($74,408.24 annually).
Council reviews its rates and charges annually as part of the budget process prior to the Operational Plan being adopted and placed on public display for community consultation. Council has resolved to maintain the special rate for Industrial Drive with the specific purpose of separating these funds for future projects in this area.
The Industrial Drive Special Rate internal reserve has a current balance of $111,000 which will be spent on maintaining and upgrading the industrial area. A report will be presented to Council by the Engineering Department outlining the required projects and when these will be scheduled for completion.
Additionally, a further $1.3 million 20-year loan was taken out in 2006 for further development of the Industrial Drive area. This loan was fully funded by all ratepayers. Special Rate Variation Initiatives Local Government Act 1993 s 508(2): The Minister may, by instrument in writing given to a council— (a) specify the percentage by which the council’s general income or the amount of an annual charge for domestic waste management services, or both, for a specified year (being the year in which the instrument is given or a later year) may be varied, and (b) impose conditions with respect to the variation of that percentage Local Government Act 1993 s 508A(1): The Minister may, by instrument in writing given to a council, determine that the council’s general income, or the amount of an annual charge for domestic waste management services provided by the council, or both, for a specified period consisting of two or more years, may be varied by a specified percentage over the whole period
The Council is required to report to the community on the special initiative programs that are funded from Special Rate Variations approved by the Minister for Local Government.
Special Rate Variation 2005/06 In 2004/05 the Minister for Local Government granted Moree Plains Shire Council a permanent increase to general income of 5.78% above that of 2004/05 commencing in the 2005/06 financial year. The increase generated an additional income of $270,000 for the first year. Each consecutive year increases by the rate peg. This increase was permanent and was to be used to fund the following initiatives:
construction of a major industrial road - $117,000 per year • Used to fund repayments of a loan for $1.3 million that was taken out in 2006 to complete reconstruction of Industrial Drive, Ironbark Street and Kurrajong Street in the Industrial precinct. costs associated with tourism and economic development – balance (first year $153,000) • Used to supplement current tourism and economic development funding. Any unspent funds are placed into an internal reserve to fund future major tourism and economic development projects and annual events.
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The following is the amount resolved to be expended out of this reserve by year since its commencement:
2006-2016 2017 2018 2019 2020
Tourism & Economic Development $1,974,000 $191,487 $221,873 $236,919 $288,825 Loan Industrial Drive $1,287,000 $117,130 $117,130 $117,130 $117,130 Total $2,937,000 $308,617 $339,003 $354,049 $405,955
Special Rate Variation 2009/10 (SRV 508(2)) The Minister for Local Government granted Moree Plains Shire Council a one-year increase to general income of 9.73% above that of 2008/09 commencing in the 2009/10 rating year. The approval under section 508(2) was for a permanent increase to Council’s income, therefore, subsequent to the increase of 9.73% for the first year increases will be in line with rate pegging.
The increase was approved on the proviso that the income generated as a result of the Special Rate Variation, called SRV 508(2), will be used to fund costs associated with road infrastructure maintenance and renewal as defined by Council in its Special Rate Variation application five year works program. The initial five-year works program and the 2009/10 Special Rate Variation application can be found on Council’s website: www.mpsc.nsw.gov.au.
Special Rate Variation 2011/12 (SRV 508A) In 2009/10 Moree Plains Shire Council applied for a Special Rate Variation of 9.25% per year for three years to commence in the 2010/11 rating year. The approval under S508A was for a permanent increase to Council’s income, therefore, subsequent to the three increases of 9.25% per year increases will be in line with rate pegging. This Special Rate Variation, called SRV 508A, was granted by the Minister for Local Government on the proviso that the income generated as a result of the Special Rate Variation will be used to fund road infrastructure maintenance and renewal as detailed by Moree Plains Shire Council in its Special Rate Variation application, further details of which can be found on Council’s website: www.mpsc.nsw.gov.au.
The table below shows the additional rate revenue Moree Plains Shire Council received for the last five years as a result of the Special Rate Variations.
Special Rate Variations 508(2) and 508A – Income Revenue 2010-2016 2017/2018 2018/2019 2019/2020 2020/2021 Total
Special Rate $6,886,758 $1,072,148 $1,096,807 $1,126,420 $1,126,420 $10,182,133 Variation 508(2)
Special Rate $19,858,210 $3,564,671 $3,646,658 $3,745,117 $3,783,179 $30,852,718 Variation 508A
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Work Carried Out on Private Land Local Government (General) Regulation 2005 reg 217(1)(a4): details or a summary (as required by section 67(3) of the Act) of resolutions made during that year under section 67 of the Act concerning work carried out on private land and details or a summary of such work if the cost of the work has been fully or partly subsidised by the council, together with a statement of the total amount by which the council has subsidised any such work during that year
No work was carried out on private land which was fully or partly subsidised by Council during the 2019/20 financial year. Contracts Awarded to Organisations for Amounts Greater than $150,000 Local Government (General) Regulation 2005 reg 217(1)(a2): details of each contract awarded by the council during that year (whether as a result of tender or otherwise) other than— (i) employment contracts (that is, contracts of service but not contracts for services), and (ii) contracts for less than $150,000 or such other amount as may be prescribed by the regulations, including the name of the contractor, the nature of the goods or services supplied by the contractor and the total amount payable to the contractor under the contract
Contracts awarded and payments in excess of $150,000 including GST made subsequent to the calling of formal tenders are outlined in the following table.
Contractor Tender Goods/Services Value of contracts Status of Project at 30 Supplied awarded, June 2020/Comments including GST Department of Planning RFT19/07 Moree Civic Precinct $2,573,508 Work in progress Industry & Environment Redevelopment Stage 1 - Public Works Head Contractor B & F Gartshore RFT19/09 SES Building Relocation $506,572 Work in progress LGP Quotation -Taggle RFQ20/76 Supply and Installation of $2,090,823 Work in progress Systems Water Meters fitted with Remote Communication Capabilities Internal Pre-Qualified EOI19/05 Trade Services Pre- May exceed Signed December 2019 3 Lists - Various qualified Contractors $150,000 X 12 months McPherson Design Consultancy May exceed Contract extended to $150,000 30/06/2021 Emily Gall Consultancy May exceed Contract signed November $150,000 2019 - contract extended to 30/06/2021
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Feedback on our Annual Report
Moree Plains Shire Council welcomes your feedback on this Annual Report. Feedback helps us to ensure that our annual reports provide information relevant to our audience. Please provide your comments, ideas and other feedback in writing to:
Lester Rodgers General Manager Moree Plains Shire Council PO Box 420 MOREE NSW 2400
Moree Plains Shire Council
Moree office Level 2, The Max Centre 30 Heber Street Moree NSW 2400 Telephone: (02) 6757 3222 Fax: (02) 6752 3934 Office hours: Monday to Friday, 9am–5pm
Mungindi office 153 St George Street Mungindi NSW 2406 Telephone: (02) 6753 2389 Fax: (02) 6753 2703 Office hours: Monday to Friday, 9.30am–4.30pm
Postal address PO Box 420 Moree NSW 2400
Email: [email protected] Web: www.mpsc.nsw.gov.au Facebook: www.facebook.com/MoreePlainsShireCouncil
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Moree Plains Shire Council Level 2 Telephone: (02) 6757 3222 Max Centre Arcade Fax: (02) 6752 3934 30 Heber Street Email: [email protected] Moree NSW 2400 Web: www.mpsc.nsw.gov.au Postal Address: Facebook: www.facebook.com/MoreePlainsShireCouncil PO Box 420 Twitter: https://twitter.com/moreeshire Moree NSW 2400