Minutes of an ordinary meeting of the Central Coast Council held in the Council Chamber at the Administration Centre, 19 King Edward Street, Ulverstone on Monday, 15 September 2014 commencing at 6.00pm.
Councillors attendance
Cr Jan Bonde (Mayor) Cr Garry Carpenter (Deputy Mayor) Cr John Bloomfield Cr Lionel Bonde Cr Shane Broad Cr Amanda Diprose Cr Kathleen Downie Cr Gerry Howard Cr Rowen Tongs Cr Tony van Rooyen Cr Philip Viney
Employees attendance
General Manager (Ms Sandra Ayton) Director Corporate & Community Services (Mr Cor Vander Vlist) Director Development & Regulatory Services (Mr Paul Bidgood) Director Engineering Services (Mr John Kersnovski) Executive Services Officer (Miss Lisa Mackrill)
Media attendance
The Advocate newspaper.
Public attendance
No members of the public attended during the course of the meeting.
Prayer
The meeting opened in prayer.
Central Coast Council Minutes – 15 September 2014 1 CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES OF THE COUNCIL
251/2014 Confirmation of minutes
The Executive Services Officer reported as follows:
“The minutes of the previous ordinary meeting of the Council held on 18 August 2014 have already been circulated. The minutes are required to be confirmed for their accuracy.
The Local Government (Meeting Procedures) Regulations 2005 provide that in confirming the minutes of a meeting, debate is allowed only in respect of the accuracy of the minutes.”
Cr (L) Bonde moved and Cr Viney seconded, “That the minutes of the previous ordinary meeting of the Council held on 18 August 2014 be confirmed.”
Carried unanimously
COUNCIL WORKSHOPS
252/2014 Council workshops
The Executive Services Officer reported as follows:
“The following council workshops have been held since the last ordinary meeting of the Council.
. 25.08.2014 – Overnight stays (motorhomes and campervans) / Cycle strategy . 08.09.2014 – Event brand and strategy.
This information is provided for the purpose of record only.”
Cr Howard moved and Cr Tongs seconded, “That the Officer’s report be received.”
Carried unanimously
2 Central Coast Council Minutes – 15 September 2014 MAYOR’S COMMUNICATIONS
253/2014 Mayor’s communications
The Mayor reported as follows:
“I now take this opportunity to present Mr John Kersnovski with a Certificate of Appointment as the Council’s Municipal Emergency Management Coordinator for a period of two years, in accordance with s.23 of the Emergency Management Act 2006.
I note that the letter of appointment from Rene Hidding MP, the Minister for Police and Emergency Management states that, ‘The position of Municipal Emergency Management Coordinator carries with it very important responsibilities for emergency management in your municipal area. These responsibilities require commitment and energy. I know you have both of these attributes and that your community will be well served by your appointment.’ ”
254/2014 Mayor’s diary
The Mayor reported as follows:
“I have attended the following events and functions on behalf of the Council:
. The Country Women’s Association in Tasmania – annual meeting . Australian Red Cross, Ulverstone Branch – 100th anniversary luncheon . Central Coast Chamber of Commerce and Industry – annual general meeting and dinner . Central Coast Community Safety Partnership Committee – meeting . Radio 7AD – community reports . Penguin Meals on Wheels - National Meals on Wheels Day deliveries . Executive Commissioner, Tasmanian Planning Commission, and Chief Representative, Cradle Coast Authority Representatives – meeting re planning (Burnie) . Cradle Coast Authority – Representatives meeting (Burnie) . Bloomin’ Tulip Festival – Mayoral ball (Elliott) . Ulverstone Golf Club – restaurant opening and dinner . Alzheimer’s Australia Tasmania – Dementia Awareness Month breakfast event . Housing Choices Tasmania – overview meeting . University of Tasmania - PICSE-UTAS Science and Engineering Investigation Awards (Burnie)
Central Coast Council Minutes – 15 September 2014 3 . Yvonne Downes - ‘The Brownsville Blacksmith’ book launch (Gunns Plains) . Anglican Parish of Penguin – St Stephen’s Anglican Church renovations fundraising luncheon . Federal Minister for Trade, Investment and Tourism, the Hon. Andrew Robb MP – meet and greet (Burnie) . Leven Regional Arts – The Gawler Gallery quilt exhibition opening . Ulverstone Primary School – art exhibition opening . Senator Jacqui Lambie – office opening (Burnie) . Northern Tasmanian Football League – Grand Final luncheon (Latrobe) . Tour of Dial-Blythe Irrigation Scheme.”
The Deputy Mayor reported as follows:
“I have attended the following events and functions on behalf of the Council:
. Ulverstone Municipal Band – annual dinner . West Ulverstone Football Association – annual dinner . Darwin Football Association – annual dinner (Somerset).”
Cr Viney reported as follows:
“I have attended the following events and functions on behalf of the Council:
. Ulverstone Anglers Club - social dinner.”
Cr Howard reported as follows:
“I have attended the following events and functions on behalf of the Council:
. Emu Valley Rhododendron Garden – official opening of 2014 flowering season (Burnie).”
Cr Broad moved and Cr Downie seconded, “That the Mayor’s, Deputy Mayor’s, Cr Viney’s and Cr Howard’s reports be received.”
Carried unanimously
255/2014 Pecuniary interest declarations
The Mayor reported as follows:
“Councillors are requested to indicate whether they have, or are likely to have, a pecuniary interest in any item on the agenda.”
4 Central Coast Council Minutes – 15 September 2014 The Executive Services Officer reported as follows:
“The Local Government Act 1993 provides that a councillor must not participate at any meeting of a council in any discussion, nor vote on any matter, in respect of which the councillor has an interest or is aware or ought to be aware that a close associate has an interest.
Councillors are invited at this time to declare any interest they have on matters to be discussed at this meeting. If a declaration is impractical at this time, it is to be noted that a councillor must declare any interest in a matter before any discussion on that matter commences.
All interests declared will be recorded in the minutes at the commencement of the matter to which they relate.”
No interests were declared at this time.
256/2014 Public question time
The Mayor reported as follows:
“At 6.40pm or as soon as practicable thereafter, a period of not more than 30 minutes is to be set aside for public question time during which any member of the public may ask questions relating to the activities of the Council.
Public question time will be conducted as provided by the Local Government (Meeting Procedures) Regulations 2005 and the supporting procedures adopted by the Council on 20 June 2005 (Minute No. 166/2005).”
COUNCILLOR REPORTS
257/2014 Councillor reports
The Executive Services Officer reported as follows:
“Councillors who have been appointed by the Council to community and other organisations are invited at this time to report on actions or provide information arising out of meetings of those organisations.
Any matters for decision by the Council which might arise out of these reports should be placed on a subsequent agenda and made the subject of a considered resolution.”
Central Coast Council Minutes – 15 September 2014 5 Cr Carpenter reported on the recent Caves to Canyon Tourism Association annual general meeting.
Cr Diprose reported on recent meetings of the Central Coast Community Safety Partnership Committee and East Ulverstone Swimming Pool Management Committee.
Cr Bloomfield reported on a recent meeting of the Central Coast Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc.
Cr Downie reported on recent meetings of the Ulverstone Wharf Precinct Advisory Committee, Penguin Surf Life Saving Club and Slipstream Circus Board Inc.
APPLICATIONS FOR LEAVE OF ABSENCE
258/2014 Leave of absence
The Executive Services Officer reported as follows:
“The Local Government Act 1993 provides that the office of a councillor becomes vacant if the councillor is absent without leave from three consecutive ordinary meetings of the council.
The Act also provides that applications by councillors for leave of absence may be discussed in a meeting or part of a meeting that is closed to the public.
There are no applications for consideration at this meeting.”
DEPUTATIONS
259/2014 Deputations
The Executive Services Officer reported as follows:
“No requests for deputations to address the meeting or to make statements or deliver reports have been made.”
PETITIONS
260/2014 Petitions
The Executive Services Officer reported as follows:
6 Central Coast Council Minutes – 15 September 2014 “No petitions under the provisions of the Local Government Act 1993 have been presented.”
COUNCILLORS’ QUESTIONS
261/2014 Councillors’ questions without notice
The Executive Services Officer reported as follows:
“The Local Government (Meeting Procedures) Regulations 2005 provide as follows:
‘29 (1) A councillor at a meeting may ask a question without notice of the chairperson or, through the chairperson, of –
(a) another councillor; or
(b) the general manager.
(2) In putting a question without notice, a councillor must not –
(a) offer an argument or opinion; or
(b) draw any inferences or make any imputations –
except so far as may be necessary to explain the question.
(3) The chairperson must not permit any debate of a question without notice or its answer.
(4) The chairperson, councillor or general manager who is asked a question without notice may decline to answer the question.
(5) The chairperson may refuse to accept a question if it does not relate to the activities of the council.
(6) Questions without notice, and any answers to those questions, are not required to be recorded in the minutes.
(7) The chairperson may require a councillor to put a question without notice in writing.’
Central Coast Council Minutes – 15 September 2014 7 If a question gives rise to a proposed matter for discussion and that matter is not listed on the agenda, Councillors are reminded of the following requirements of the Regulations:
‘8 (5) Subject to subregulation (6), a matter may only be discussed at a meeting if it is specifically listed on the agenda of that meeting.
(6) A council by absolute majority… may decide at an ordinary meeting to deal with a matter that is not on the agenda if the general manager has reported –
(a) the reason it was not possible to include the matter on the agenda; and
(b) that the matter is urgent; and
(c) that (qualified) advice has been provided under section 65 of the Act.’
Councillors who have questions without notice are requested at this time to give an indication of what their questions are about so that the questions can be allocated to their appropriate Departmental Business section of the agenda.”
The allocation of topics ensued.
262/2014 Councillors’ questions on notice
The Executive Services Officer reported as follows:
“The Local Government (Meeting Procedures) Regulations 2005 provide as follows:
‘30 (1) A councillor, at least 7 days before an ordinary meeting of a council or council committee, may give written notice to the general manager of a question in respect of which the councillor seeks an answer at that meeting.
(2) An answer to a question on notice must be in writing.’
It is to be noted that any question on notice and the written answer to the question will be recorded in the minutes of the meeting as provided by the Regulations.
Any questions on notice are to be allocated to their appropriate Departmental Business section of the agenda.
No questions on notice have been received.”
8 Central Coast Council Minutes – 15 September 2014 D E V E L O P M E N T & R E G U L A T O R Y S E R V I C E S
DEPARTMENTAL BUSINESS
DEVELOPMENT & REGULATORY SERVICES
263/2014 Development & Regulatory Services determinations
The Director Development & Regulatory Services reported as follows:
“A Schedule of Development & Regulatory Services Determinations made during the month of August 2014 is submitted to the Council for information. The information is reported in accordance with approved delegations and responsibilities.”
The Executive Services Officer reported as follows:
“A copy of the Schedule has been circulated to all Councillors.”
Cr Downie moved and Cr Tongs seconded, “That the Schedule of Development & Regulatory Services Determinations (a copy being appended to and forming part of the minutes) be received.”
Carried unanimously
Central Coast Council Minutes – 15 September 2014 9 G E N E R A L M A N A G E M E N T
GENERAL MANAGEMENT
264/2014 Legalisation of medicinal cannabis
Cr Carpenter (having given notice) moved and Cr Broad seconded, “That, in recognising anecdotal accounts of significant improvements in the quality of life of some people suffering chronic illness through the use of medicinal cannabis, the Council write to the State Government requesting that:
1 The State Government pursue all options, including legislation, to allow appropriate clinical trials to facilitate the registration of cannabis with the Therapeutic Goods Administration for strictly medicinal purposes; and
2 The State Government pursue funding from the Federal Government and the private sector for research into the growing and processing of cannabis for medicinal purposes with the view of establishing a medicinal cannabis industry in Tasmania.”
Cr Carpenter, in support of his motion, submitted as follows:
“There has been considerable discussion in recent times regarding possible changes to current State laws about the growing of hemp for medicinal, fibre and food production purposes.
While Huon Valley, Dorset and Derwent Valley Councils have been prompted by commercial opportunities and local interest to push for both industrial hemp and medicinal cannabis, the Central Coast Council, with its strong rural sector, is also keenly interested is seeing progress towards enabling the growing of cannabis for medicinal purposes as well as hemp for fibre and food production.
International acceptance of medicinal cannabis is growing because it can provide relief for people who cannot be sufficiently helped with current pharmaceutical drugs. More than 20 states in the United States permit the medical use of cannabis. A New South Wales Parliamentary Committee has also recommended legalising the use of medical use of cannabis for people with terminal conditions and this is an approach that should be embraced nationally.”
The Acting General Manager reported as follows:
“BACKGROUND
Cr Carpenter’s motion is a request that the Council request the State Government to pursue all options, including, if required, the introduction of suitable legislation to allow the clinical trials necessary to facilitate the registration of cannabis in a
10 Central Coast Council Minutes – 15 September 2014 G E N E R A L M A N A G E M E N T
manner that would ultimately enable doctors to prescribe medicinal cannabis to patients who would benefit from such a prescription.
The possession of cannabis is currently a criminal offence. There is a view held by the Australian Drug Law Reform Foundation that medicinal cannabis is useful for relieving distressing symptoms in a range of serious medical conditions including Multiple Sclerosis and various cancers as well as the effects of chemotherapy that is being undertaken in an effort to combat such conditions.
The use of drugs such as morphine, cocaine and amphetamines for medical purposes is legal in Australia despite their recreational use being prohibited.
DISCUSSION
There is increasing evidence of the benefit of medicinal cannabis in the treatment of a wide range of conditions and increasingly sufferers who have been unable to find relief from their symptoms through available medication are turning to alternative medicines such as cannabis to provide that relief.
This has resulted in a pregnant mother being taken into custody because she admitted to using cannabis oil to treat her three-year–old son’s epilepsy and a South Australian man with leukaemia being sentenced to two years in jail for cultivating cannabis having previously grown the plant to help his wife endure the side effects of chemotherapy.
While there are understandably concerns that the use of medicinal cannabis might undermine the case for the prohibition of recreational cannabis, the fact that the use of morphine, cocaine and amphetamines for medical purposes can be controlled is evidence that it is possible to successfully manage this aspect. Tasmania’s record in managing the security of the poppy crop is also evidence of our ability to manage issues such as security and illegal access and that background would support Tasmania being the ideal location to pursue the growing of both medicinal cannabis and industrial hemp. Interest in the use of medicinal cannabis is growing and it is important that proper clinical trials be undertaken to protect possible future users as well as providing the basis for any future industry in this area.
The motion calls for action that is specifically limited to providing access to medicinal cannabis only by way of a doctor’s prescription, via the Therapeutic Goods Administration, Australia's regulatory agency for medical drugs and devices. It does not change or weaken the laws that prevent the growing of cannabis for private use.
The second part of the motion would be dependent on the use of medicinal cannabis being approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration. Once such approval has been granted it would be important that funding be obtained to
Central Coast Council Minutes – 15 September 2014 11 G E N E R A L M A N A G E M E N T
facilitate research into the growing and processing of cannabis for medicinal purposes with the view of establishing a medicinal cannabis industry in Tasmania.
There is already a significant push towards simplifying the growth of industrial hemp for food and fibre and the legalisation of medicinal cannabis would enable this to be expanded to include the growing of medicinal cannabis under suitable control conditions for prescription where it is appropriate to do so.
CONSULTATION
No consultation has been undertaken.
RESOURCE, FINANCIAL AND RISK IMPACTS
There will be no impact on resources and the risk issues have been discussed in the body of the report.
CORPORATE COMPLIANCE
The Central Coast Strategic Plan 2014-2024 includes the following strategies and key actions:
The Shape of the Place . Encourage a creative approach to new development
A Connected Central Coast . Improve community well-being
Community Capacity and Creativity . Facilitate entrepreneurship in the business community . Cultivate a culture of creativity in the community.
CONCLUSION
The motion on notice of Cr Carpenter is submitted for consideration.”
Voting for the motion Voting against the motion (10) (1) Cr (J) Bonde Cr (L) Bonde Cr Bloomfield Cr Broad Cr Carpenter Cr Diprose Cr Downie Cr Howard
12 Central Coast Council Minutes – 15 September 2014 G E N E R A L M A N A G E M E N T
Cr Tongs Cr van Rooyen Cr Viney
Motion Carried
265/2014 TasWater independent arbiter
Cr (L) Bonde (having given notice) moved and Cr Carpenter seconded, “That the member councils of TasWater be asked to consider the employment of a qualified engineer to act as an independent arbiter to work in conjunction with TasWater and that this employee is representing the councils as their liaison officer and watchdog on all facets of TasWater, and that employee be only answerable to the member councils or their appointed contact.”
Cr Bonde, in support of his motion, submitted as follows:
“I am really concerned at the increasing number of reported instances of discontent and mismanagement in TasWater locally and of the extraordinary numbers of queries by the media of mismanagement in the senior management of TasWater, and it is because of recent reports I have been made aware of that, I am concerned that we have local and Statewide instances of poor decision making which leads to discontent in the workforce.
I have for some time been aware of dissatisfaction regarding management decisions in our local area, a list of which was made available to all Councillors, and despite my questioning and research I am informed there is little change and in some cases, the morale of the workforce has deteriorated.
I worry that the good work ethic and skills of some workers is not being encouraged or recognised, which is leading to faulty work practices and inevitable mechanical breakdown which is causing costly repairs that could have been avoided. Lack of proper maintenance or none at all is causing extensive breakdowns as well.
I am told there are serious questions to do with questionable advance decision making and the workforce has little input into that. I am told that their toolbox meetings have got such a poor response and image that some workers do not even go to the work meetings because of the poor response from previous enquiries.
There is a large amount of money involved in TasWater that is regarded as being controlled by the member councils of local government, but there is very little decision making taken from the discussions with the Representatives of the councils, who seem to be decision takers rather than decision makers, that is why I
Central Coast Council Minutes – 15 September 2014 13 G E N E R A L M A N A G E M E N T
think it is vital for the success of TasWater into the future to have an independent qualified person to work in conjunction with TasWater.
It could well be there is too much for one person to do or that the expectation is too high, but I am sure one independent person with good management skills could achieve quite a good result for all concerned as it would be an enormous advantage to have a qualified opinion at the coal face to hear and see the action.
It cannot and should not be left to the council Representatives to shoulder the responsibility of the caretaker role of this huge enterprise. As they have neither the time nor the expertise to carry out the duties required to get maximum returns on this huge investment.
Past performance of member council Representatives on TasWater has not helped us in avoiding a very mixed result in the workings of this business and so I believe a change in strategy is required and this appointment would give the Representatives and councils investigative powers that they require and have not had up to this point in time.
We have almost total dissatisfaction from the users of water and sewerage throughout the State, and there is urgent need for a revision where a subtle change would lead to huge improvements for all concerned. Central Coast Council stands to get $1.2m. next year in dividends and that is 1.2m. reasons why Councillors should show some interest in what is happening.
If all the above fails then we should be asking the State Government for a full inquiry into TasWater.
If an employee is appointed I would insist they be a Tasmanian.
My most recent informative discussion leads me to believe nothing has changed in the decision making and so we as Councillors should be making responsible questions that will reduce the very costly management decisions that continue to occur.”
The Acting General Manager reported as follows:
“BACKGROUND
Cr Bonde is requesting that the member councils of TasWater be asked to consider employing a qualified engineer to act as an independent arbiter to work in conjunction with TasWater and that this employee represent the councils as their liaison officer and watchdog on all facets of TasWater, and that employee be answerable only to the member councils or their appointed contact.
14 Central Coast Council Minutes – 15 September 2014 G E N E R A L M A N A G E M E N T
TasWater was formed through the amalgamation of the three Tasmanian Water and Sewerage Corporations namely Ben Lomond Water, Cradle Mountain Water, Southern Water, and their service firm; Onstream. In September 2011, the Board Chairman initiated discussions with owner councils about the potential benefits that could ensue from a single statewide water and sewerage corporation. After a series of reviews, council owners in all regions agreed to move to a single corporation that merged the current four corporations.
Specific governance arrangements were agreed that are now largely incorporated in the Water and Sewerage Corporation Act 2012 (WSCA), the new constitution and the new Shareholders' Letter of Expectation.
Under the WSCA, Tasmanian councils formed a proprietary company limited by shares that was incorporated under the Corporations Act. The member councils govern the Corporation by way of the Owners’ Representatives Group.
The Owners’ Representatives Group comprises one representative from each member (Tasmania's 29 councils) of the corporation. The Board of TasWater is accountable to the Owners’ Representatives Group. The functions, duties and responsibilities for the Owners’ Representatives Group are outlined in the Corporation’s Constitution and the Shareholders’ Letter of Expectation.
Owner councils have determined that the Board would comprise a Chairman and six non-executive Directors. The Board was to be skills based and independent and appointed by the Board Selection Committee, under delegation from the Owners’ Representatives Group. These arrangements are reflected in the Corporation’s Constitution.
The principal objectives of TasWater are governed by statute as follows:
. To efficiently provide water and sewerage functions in Tasmania;
. To encourage water conservation, the demand management of water and the reuse of water on an economic and commercial basis;
. To be a successful business, and to this end:
. To operate its activities in accordance with good commercial practice; . To deliver sustainable returns to its members; and . To deliver water and sewerage services to customers in the most cost efficient manner.
Central Coast Council Minutes – 15 September 2014 15 G E N E R A L M A N A G E M E N T
DISCUSSION
As part of the overall governance structure, owner councils have determined that the Board of TasWater should be skills based and independent. A study of the make-up of the current Board shows that the members include two highly qualified engineers both with extensive experience in the water service industry. Any appointment of a qualified engineer would be likely to duplicate the expertise that already exists within the current Board whose obligations are governed by a Code of Conduct and a Board Charter which requires that the Board:
. governs in accordance with the requirements of WSCA and the Constitution to meet the objectives of the Corporation under the WSCA, and taking into account the Shareholders’ Letter of Expectation;
. provides entrepreneurial leadership of the Corporation within a framework of prudent and effective controls which enable risks to be assessed and managed;
. ensures that the necessary financial and human resources are in place to meet its objectives;
. establishes performance indicators, control mechanisms and related benchmarks to allow it to satisfy itself that the company is being properly managed;
. sets and monitors strategic requirements for effective financial reporting, risk management and management of the capital program;
. reviews and addresses (where required) management performance against objectives, benchmarks and the implementation of approved strategies;
. sets the Corporation’s values and standards and ensures that its obligations to its shareholders and others are understood and met; and
. engages and communicates effectively with its owners and other stakeholders.
At the same time the Directors Code of Conduct that has been adopted by the Board specifies that in accordance with legal requirements and agreed ethical standards, Directors, both collectively and individually will:
. discharge their duties honestly, in good faith and in the best interests of the Corporation;
16 Central Coast Council Minutes – 15 September 2014 G E N E R A L M A N A G E M E N T
. demonstrate commercial reasonableness in decision making, taking competent and independent advice at the Corporation’s expense where necessary;
. make reasonable enquiries to ensure that the Corporation is operating legally, effectively and efficiently and reliance on Corporation Officers is appropriate;
. act with the level of skill, care and diligence expected of a Director; and
. unless specifically delegated to do so, refrain from participating in the day to day management of the company, making representations or agreements on its behalf, or influencing management as individuals.
In addition to the obligations that have been placed on the Board, the Corporation has adopted a number of policies that provide the avenue for staff to raise concerns that they may have with regard to work practices, matters of public interest and dealing with complaints, that are aimed at ensuring business decisions and judgements made by Directors, managers, officers, employees, committees, project teams and any external parties working with the Corporation are independent of any inappropriate external influence, are fair and transparent, and are made in the best interests of the Corporation.
Disclosures about improper conduct or detrimental action may also be made directly to the Ombudsman who already fulfils the role of an independent arbiter.
CONSULTATION
No consultation has been undertaken.
RESOURCE, FINANCIAL AND RISK IMPACTS
There would be no impact on the Council’s resources.
CORPORATE COMPLIANCE
The Central Coast Strategic Plan 2014-2024 includes the following strategies and key actions:
Council Sustainability and Governance . Improve corporate governance . Improve service provision.
Central Coast Council Minutes – 15 September 2014 17 G E N E R A L M A N A G E M E N T
CONCLUSION
The motion on notice from Cr Bonde is submitted for consideration.”
Voting for the motion Voting against the motion (5) (6) Cr Bloomfield Cr (J) Bonde Cr (L) Bonde Cr Broad Cr Carpenter Cr Diprose Cr Howard Cr Downie Cr Tongs Cr van Rooyen Cr Viney
Motion Lost
266/2014 Eating establishments in Central Coast
Cr (L) Bonde (having given notice) moved and Cr Carpenter seconded, “That the Central Coast Council encourage the Central Coast Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. to produce or establish a current, up to date list of the eating establishments in Central Coast, together with their addresses and trading hours clearly defined.”
Cr Bonde, in support of his motion, submitted as follows:
“I am continually being contacted with complaints that visiting people do not know where the eating places are in town or what the trading hours are.
If Central Coast is to be the tourism mecca it strives to be, it would be a definite advantage to all concerned for the Central Coast district to have a roster of all eating places and their opening and closing hours clearly defined and displayed.
The handouts that I see in the Information Centre are too old and too vague with quite of few of the businesses not clearly showing their respective trading hours and that is really disappointing.
The rosters would probably best be drawn up quarterly so as they would be currently fully informative.
The Chamber of Commerce should be encouraged to be making full use of the Information Centre position in the community by making regular trading information available so the Centre can display up to date handouts, without chasing it.
18 Central Coast Council Minutes – 15 September 2014 G E N E R A L M A N A G E M E N T
Of course it would be desirable for eating places in the district to ensure that their businesses open on roster up to a decided time on all nights to serve the public, and it would need to be discussed that serious consideration be given to having a roster of later closing hours throughout the tourist season, 1 October to 31 March to coincide with daylight saving time.
While I fully realise all business houses are under severe trading conditions I believe the above suggestions are vitally important to the success of our image as a place to visit and dine. The suggestions I have mentioned are not costly to maintain and are a natural expectation of any community serving business, advertising is the axle of the wheel of success and it encourages any successful business.”
The Acting General Manager reported as follows:
“BACKGROUND
Cr Bonde’s motion is a request that the Central Coast Council encourages the Central Coast Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc. to produce or establish a current, up to date list of the eating establishments within the Central Coast area, detailing their addresses and trading hours.
The Council currently produces a range of information on dining establishments that is placed on the Coast to Canyon website.
DISCUSSION
The Council, through the Ulverstone Visitor Information Centre (UVIC), produces a number of lists of eating houses throughout the Central Coast area that are accessible via the Council’s website. These lists are generated by the staff at the UVIC and rely heavily on staff having to update the details on file, despite the fact that business operators are urged to pass on any changes in hours etc. to the UVIC to enable the list to be kept up to date. The UVIC also produces a special listing for Christmas Day each year to assist visitors to the area.
The lists provided by the Council are only as up to date as the information provided; it would be beneficial for all concerned if the Chamber of Commerce were to ensure that the lists are current and that they provide all of the information that visitors and locals alike need to assist with bookings at any of the eating establishments within the Central Coast area.
Central Coast Council Minutes – 15 September 2014 19 G E N E R A L M A N A G E M E N T
CONSULTATION
No consultation has been undertaken.
RESOURCE, FINANCIAL AND RISK IMPACTS
There will be no additional impact on staff resources.
CORPORATE COMPLIANCE
The Central Coast Strategic Plan 2014-2024 includes the following strategies and key actions:
A Connected Central Coast . Connect the people with services
Community Capacity and Creativity . Facilitate entrepreneurship in the business community
Council Sustainability and Governance . Improve service provision . Effective communication and engagement.
CONCLUSION
The motion on notice from Cr Bonde is submitted for consideration.”
Voting for the motion Voting against the motion (9) (2) Cr (J) Bonde Cr Broad Cr Bloomfield Cr Tongs Cr (L) Bonde Cr Carpenter Cr Diprose Cr Downie Cr Howard Cr van Rooyen Cr Viney
Motion Carried
267/2014 Minutes and notes of committees of the Council and other organisations
The Acting General Manager reported as follows:
20 Central Coast Council Minutes – 15 September 2014 G E N E R A L M A N A G E M E N T
“The following (non-confidential) minutes and notes of committees of the Council and other organisations on which the Council has representation have been received:
. Central Coast Youth Engaged Steering Committee – meeting held on 21 August 2014 . Central Coast Community Safety Partnership Committee – meeting held on 27 August 2014 . East Ulverstone Swimming Pool Management Committee – meeting held on 28 August 2014 . Central Coast Community Shed Management Committee – meeting held on 1 September 2014.
Copies of the minutes and notes have been circulated to all Councillors.”
Cr Downie moved and Cr Viney seconded, “That the (non-confidential) minutes and notes of committees of the Council be received.”
Carried unanimously
Central Coast Council Minutes – 15 September 2014 21 C O R P O R A T E & C O M M U N I T Y S E R V I C E S
CORPORATE & COMMUNITY SERVICES
268/2014 Contracts and agreements
The Director Corporate & Community Services reported as follows:
“A Schedule of Contracts and Agreements (other than those approved under the common seal) entered into during the month of August 2014 has been submitted by the General Manager to the Council for information. The information is reported in accordance with approved delegations and responsibilities.”
The Executive Services Officer reported as follows:
“A copy of the Schedule has been circulated to all Councillors.”
Cr (L) Bonde moved and Cr Diprose seconded, “That the Schedule of Contracts and Agreements (a copy being appended to and forming part of the minutes) be received.”
Carried unanimously
269/2014 Correspondence addressed to the Mayor and Councillors
The Director Corporate & Community Services reported as follows:
“PURPOSE
This report is to inform the meeting of any correspondence received during the month of August 2014 and which was addressed to the ‘Mayor and Councillors’. Reporting of this correspondence is required in accordance with Council policy.
CORRESPONDENCE RECEIVED
The following correspondence has been received and circulated to all Councillors:
. Email concerning access to the pontoon over the weekend of 2 August 2014. . Letter from the Ulverstone Golf Club concerning illegal rubbish dumping. . Letter from the Minister for Health, Michael Ferguson MP, detailing the makeup of the ‘One State, One Health System; Better Outcomes’ health reform package. . Letter regarding the proposed improvements to the Sulphur Creek Tennis Courts and Recreational area. . Letter from the Minister for Health, Michael Ferguson MP, concerning the matter of medicinal cannabis.
22 Central Coast Council Minutes – 15 September 2014 C O R P O R A T E & C O M M U N I T Y S E R V I C E S
. Email thanking the Councillors for their interest and dealings on a planning matter.
Where a matter requires a Council decision based on a professionally developed report the matter will be referred to the Council. Matters other than those requiring a report will be administered on the same basis as other correspondence received by the Council and managed as part of the day-to-day operations.”
Cr Downie moved and Cr Tongs seconded, “That the Director’s report be received.”
Carried unanimously
270/2014 Common seal
The Director Corporate & Community Services reported as follows:
“A Schedule of Documents for Affixing of the Common Seal for the period 19 August 2014 to 15 September 2014 is submitted for the authority of the Council to be given. Use of the common seal must first be authorised by a resolution of the Council.
The Schedule also includes for information advice of final plans of subdivision sealed in accordance with approved delegation and responsibilities.”
The Executive Services Officer reported as follows:
“A copy of the Schedule has been circulated to all Councillors.”
Cr Diprose moved and Cr Tongs seconded, “That the common seal (a copy of the Schedule of Documents for Affixing of the Common Seal being appended to and forming part of the minutes) be affixed subject to compliance with all conditions of approval in respect of each document, and that the advice of final plans of subdivision sealed in accordance with approved delegation and responsibilities be received.”
Carried unanimously
271/2014 Financial statements
The Director Corporate & Community Services reported as follows:
“The following principal financial statements of the Council for the period ended 31 August 2014 are submitted for consideration:
Central Coast Council Minutes – 15 September 2014 23 C O R P O R A T E & C O M M U N I T Y S E R V I C E S
. Summary of Rates and Fire Service Levies . Operating and Capital Statement . Cashflow Statement . Capital Works Resource Schedule.”
The Executive Services Officer reported as follows:
“Copies of the financial statements have been circulated to all Councillors.”
Cr Viney moved and Cr (L) Bonde seconded, “That the financial statements (copies being appended to and forming part of the minutes) be received.”
Carried unanimously
272/2014 Review of Policy on overnight rest areas (24/2006 – 23.01.2006)
The Director Corporate & Community Services reported as follows:
“PURPOSE
The purpose of this report is to review the Council’s Policy on overnight rest areas.
BACKGROUND
At its meeting on 23 January 2006 the Council unanimously passed the following motion on overnight rest areas and the provision of wastewater dump stations (Minute No. 24/2006):
“That the Council confirm its existing policy on overnight rest areas as follows:
. That, subject to the Crown’s consent for the use of its land, the Council approve that campervan and motorhome owners are able to rest for up to 48 hours in any of the rest areas within the municipal area;
and additionally that:
. appropriate signage be erected in the parking bay off Dial Street advising that the area is not a rest area.”
In 2011/12 there was an average of 36 vehicles parking overnight in rest areas within the Central Coast area, with a majority of those located in areas around Penguin, and with the highest numbers recorded in the first three months in 2012.
24 Central Coast Council Minutes – 15 September 2014 C O R P O R A T E & C O M M U N I T Y S E R V I C E S
These numbers have doubled over the past two years with a significant increase in the number of overnights stays at the Forth Recreation Ground.
Vehicles regularly stay overnight at Hall Point, Preservation Bay and Lions Park, Penguin, at the Forth Recreation Ground and a limited number at Ulverstone.
While the numbers of overnight stays has increased significantly in the past year, the level of complaints has been minimal and this has been more than offset by communications received in support of the Council’s current policy, in addition to the positive impact that such overnight stays have on the dumping of rubbish, hooning and vandalism in these overnight rest areas.
Both Ulverstone and Penguin have maintained their ‘RV Friendly Status’ as designated by the Campervan and Motorhome Club of Australia; a requirement of which includes the provision of low-cost camping.
With the increase in overnight stays in 2012, it was alleged, to the Office of the Economic Regulator (the Regulator), that the Central Coast Council had failed to comply with the Competitive Neutrality Principles (CNPs) in relation to the recreational vehicle (RV) overnight parking at a number of sites. The Regulator completed an investigation in 2013 and concluded that the Council had not breached the CNPs in relation to the activities alleged.
DISCUSSION
In developing its policy on overnight stays between 2004 and 2006, the Council undertook a range of community consultation the outcome of which was strongly in favour of allowing overnight stays in rest areas throughout the Central Coast area. A community forum held at the Sulphur Creek Hall at that time was overwhelmingly in favour of allowing overnight stays at Hall Point because of the positive impact the presence of motorhomes and campervans were having on the dumping of rubbish and hooning in that area.
The Council has not created any rest area for the purpose of overnight stays and encourages visitors to utilise the various caravan parks located in Turners Beach, Ulverstone, West Ulverstone and Penguin. The Council has not defined any specific rest areas but it has defined a number of preferred areas for the use of visitors. This is aimed at minimising roadside camping and keeping overnight stays to suitable existing rest areas.
Nicholsons Point, Ulverstone which has been closed due to the rail bridge works being undertaken by Tasrail, has been reopened and will be available for use in 2014-2015.
Central Coast Council Minutes – 15 September 2014 25 C O R P O R A T E & C O M M U N I T Y S E R V I C E S
A review of the overnight stays shows that there has also been an increase in the overnight stays at Lions Park, Penguin with an overnight average of eight per night, while the Forth Recreation Ground has also seen a significant increase of both overnight stays by motorhomes and campervans, as well as a number of seasonal workers who have been utilising the barbecue hut area.
The popularity of Lions Park, Penguin has reached a point where numbers are constantly exceeding the capacity of the area. This is resulting in a number of complaints from locals who are unable to access the area and a request from Cr Howard that this area be closed to overnight stays. As the area provides access to the two local dog beaches and is the main parking area for Penguin residents who wish to access Penguin Beach, it is considered appropriate that this area be made an area where overnight stays are not permitted.
The popularity of the Forth Recreation Ground has also led to a number of complaints being received from local residents, especially regarding the impact on the local facilities that have been abused by a large number of seasonal workers who utilised the barbecue hut area for overnight accommodation. With the reopening of Nicholsons Point, Ulverstone it is suggested that steps be taken to limit the space available for overnight stays in Forth and that vehicular access to the barbecue hut area also be restricted.
CONSULTATION
This issue was workshopped with Councillors on Monday, 25 August 2014.
Should the Council approve the suggested motion, the Director will contact the various motorhome and campervan owner groups to advise them of the changes and the reasons underpinning them.
RESOURCE, FINANCIAL AND RISK IMPACTS
There would be some minor costs for signage at Penguin. The cost of restricting access to the barbecue hut area and limiting the number of overnight stays at the Forth Recreation Ground will be dependent on the manner in which this is undertaken. It is believed that this cost can be met within current budget constraints.
CORPORATE COMPLIANCE
The Central Coast Strategic Plan 2014-2024 includes the following strategies and key actions:
The Shape of the Place . Improve the value and use of open space
26 Central Coast Council Minutes – 15 September 2014 C O R P O R A T E & C O M M U N I T Y S E R V I C E S
. Conserve the physical environment in a way that ensures we have a healthy and attractive community
A Connected Central Coast . Provide for a diverse range of movement patterns
The Environment and Sustainable Infrastructure . Invest in and leverage opportunities from our natural environment . Contribute to the preservation of the natural environment.
CONCLUSION
It is recommended that the Council confirm its existing policy on overnight rest areas as follows:
. That, subject to the Crown’s consent for the use of its land, the Council approve that campervan and motorhome owners are able to rest for up to 48 hours in any of the rest areas within the municipal area;
and additionally that:
. appropriate steps be taken to limit the space available at the Forth Recreation Ground for overnight stays; and
. appropriate signage be erected at Lions Park, Penguin, as soon as it is practical to do so, identifying the area for day-use only – overnight stays not permitted.”
Cr van Rooyen moved and Cr (L) Bonde seconded, “That the Council confirm its existing policy on overnight rest areas as follows:
. That, subject to the Crown’s consent for the use of its land, the Council approve that campervan and motorhome owners are able to rest for up to 48 hours in any of the rest areas within the municipal area; and additionally that:
. appropriate steps be taken to limit the space available at the Forth Recreation Ground for overnight stays; and
. appropriate signage be erected at Lions Park, Penguin, as soon as it is practical to do so, identifying the area for day-use only – overnight stays not permitted.”
Carried unanimously
Central Coast Council Minutes – 15 September 2014 27 C O R P O R A T E & C O M M U N I T Y S E R V I C E S
273/2014 Central Coast Cycle Strategy
The Director Corporate & Community Services reported as follows:
“The Community Services Group Leader has prepared the following report:
‘PURPOSE
The purpose of this report is to seek the Council’s support for the adoption of the Central Coast Cycle Strategy (the Strategy).
BACKGROUND
In Cycling Tasmania’s “Strategic Plan 2011 and Beyond” document it states:
“Cycling is a high profile sport at both international and national level.
Cycling is also a recreation and sport enjoyed by many Australians at a grass roots level; whether it is in the form of learning to cycle, commuting, recreational riding or competitive cycling. Cycling is a pastime suitable to all ages and skill levels.”
The Vision Statement follows:
“Tasmania to become the cycle friendly state, enabling increased participation in all forms of cycling.”
The Central Coast Strategic Plan 2014-2024 lists “Implement the Central Coast Cycling Strategy” as a key strategy and key action under the Strategic Direction “The Shape of the Place”.
The Cycle Strategy outlines a five-year plan to support the growing culture of cycling in Central Coast. The primary aim is to encourage people travelling within or through Central Coast to make more of their trips by bicycle.
Any increase in the uptake of cycling offers considerable benefits including health benefits, cost savings, environmental, liveability and sustainability benefits, as well as a range of positive social and economic outcomes.
The best example of infrastructure in Central Coast designed to accommodate cyclists is the Turners Beach-Ulverstone Shared Pathway which opened on 20 June 2010. This shared pathway is acknowledged by the community as being an outstanding example of infrastructure that serves bike riders and pedestrians exceedingly well, allowing safe and convenient
28 Central Coast Council Minutes – 15 September 2014 C O R P O R A T E & C O M M U N I T Y S E R V I C E S
exercise for people of all ages and abilities in a variety of natural settings. This pathway forms part of a planned North West Coast Pathway to eventually link up Wynyard with Latrobe. The plan for the North West Coast Pathway, commissioned by the Cradle Coast Authority, has been provided to local councils as a practical guide to construction planning and funding applications.
The Council has in recent years provided direct support for several major cycling events held in Central Coast. Event supported include a “time trial” as part of the 2014 Subaru National Road Series for Elite Women, the World Championship Selection Race for Under 19 Men and Women held last April, and in October a stage of the Tour of Tasmania and a criterium event that is part of the Tasmanian Christmas Carnival Series.
Work began on the Strategy by Corporate & Community Services officers in November 2013 with the first meeting of a Cycle Strategy Community Advisory Group held in December 2013. The aim of the Advisory Group meetings was to inform the Strategy as to the community expectations for a Cycle Strategy for the next five years and to act as an ongoing reference group for future consultations. The group met four times to assist in the development of the Strategy. A copy of the Strategy is appended to this report.
DISCUSSION
The Strategy describes the Council’s leading role as being to:
. Consider cycling infrastructure in future planning deliberations.
. Raise the profile of cycling and promote its benefits.
. Engage with the community including residents, businesses and educational institutions in planning, promoting and supporting cycling through information, events and promotional activities celebrating a culture of cycling.
. Where possible, ensure that transport and land use developments allow for direct, convenient and interconnected routes between key destinations and residential areas.
. Work with the Cradle Coast Mountain Bike Club to further develop mountain biking in the area.
Central Coast Council Minutes – 15 September 2014 29 C O R P O R A T E & C O M M U N I T Y S E R V I C E S
This Strategy is not a prescription for large scale capital works. Rather, the focus is on smaller immediately achievable initiatives designed to improve the perception in Central Coast, that riding a bike is a better option for the reasons outlined above, than using a car for short trips, whether it be to visit the corner shop, the short commute to work or school, or to join a friend for a cup of coffee in town. Already the Council has commenced work on a number of different bike “fronts”.
There is a significant recreational road cycle presence in Central Coast and the prevailing culture is for the cyclists to gather for morning tea after weekend rides. This regular occurrence is creating problems in the central business district as there is a lack of bike racks. Randomly parked bikes are impeding pedestrian movement particularly around bakeries and coffee shops and as such could easily be a safety hazard. The Council is investigating options to ameliorate this issue.
The Council has received a formal request from the Mersey Valley Cycle Club to site a criterium track at River Park. Ulverstone has a history of hosting criterium races and this is seen as a move to further consolidate competitive cycle racing in Central Coast. Council officers will continue to explore this proposal, including the development of linking a bike friendly corridor to River Park. It is envisaged that River Park could also serve as an alternative cycling area for recreational and family cyclists in years to come.
The Council’s Community Wellbeing Officer has already begun work on a project to train up local cycling instructors. These school-based instructors will initially work to build a better “ride to school” culture, giving children the skills to negotiate the pathways to schools located at East Ulverstone and parents the confidence to encourage their child to ride to school. Cultivating a better younger-rider culture is seen as an integral part of enabling increased participation in all forms of cycling.
CONSULTATION
Sixteen members representing all cycling groups and interests in Central Coast formed the community advisory group including a representative from “Safer Roads for Cyclists”. The Council’s Engineering Services Department also had a representative attend the meetings.
This group has agreed to provide ongoing feedback as cycling continues to develop in Central Coast.
Councillors were provided with a Strategy overview at a workshop held on 25 August 2014.
30 Central Coast Council Minutes – 15 September 2014 C O R P O R A T E & C O M M U N I T Y S E R V I C E S
RESOURCE, FINANCIAL AND RISK IMPACTS
This Strategy will not require any additional funding over and above that which is currently set aside in the budget. Funded projects include maintaining cycle education, training and promotion programs, making minor improvements to bike rack infrastructure and placements, as well as completing the seawall development as part of the extension of the shared pathway.
CORPORATE COMPLIANCE
The Central Coast Strategic Plan 2014-2024 includes the following strategies and key actions:
The Shape of the Place . Improve the value and use of open space . Conserve the physical environment in a way that ensures we have a healthy and attractive community
A Connected Central Coast . Provide for a diverse range of movement patterns . Connect the people with services . Improve community well-being
The Environment and Sustainable Infrastructure . Invest in and leverage opportunities from our natural environment.
CONCLUSION
It is recommended that the Council adopt the Central Coast Cycle Strategy 2014-2019.’
The report is supported.”
The Executive Services Officer reported as follows:
“A copy of the Central Coast Cycle Strategy 2014-2019 has been circulated to all Councillors.”
Cr Broad moved and Cr Downie seconded, “That the Council adopt the Central Coast Cycle Strategy 2014-2019 (a copy being appended to and forming part of the minutes).”
Carried unanimously
Central Coast Council Minutes – 15 September 2014 31 E N G I N E E R I N G S E R V I C E S
ENGINEERING SERVICES
274/2014 Engineering Services determinations
The Director Engineering Services reported as follows:
“There are no matters from the Engineering Services Department for decision at this meeting.”
32 Central Coast Council Minutes – 15 September 2014 CLOSURE OF MEETING TO THE PUBLIC
275/2014 Meeting closed to the public
The Executive Services Officer reported as follows:
“The Local Government (Meeting Procedures) Regulations 2005 provide that a meeting of a council is to be open to the public unless the council, by absolute majority, decides to close the meeting or part of the meeting because it wishes to discuss a matter (or matters) in a closed meeting and the Regulations provide accordingly.
Moving into a closed meeting is to be by procedural motion. Once a meeting is closed, meeting procedures are not relaxed unless the council so decides.
It is considered desirable that the following matters be discussed in a closed meeting:
. Minutes and notes of other organisations and committees of the Council; and . Local Government Association of Tasmania – 2014 Election.
These are matters relating to:
. information provided to the Council on the condition it is kept confidential.
A suggested resolution is submitted for consideration.”
Cr Viney moved and Cr Downie seconded, “That the Council close the meeting to the public to consider the following matters, they being matters relating to:
. information provided to the Council on the condition it is kept confidential; and the Council being of the opinion that it is lawful and proper to close the meeting to the public:
. Minutes and notes of other organisations and committees of the Council; and . Local Government Association of Tasmania – 2014 Election.”
Carried unanimously and by absolute majority
Central Coast Council Minutes – 15 September 2014 33 The Executive Services Officer further reported as follows:
“1 The Local Government (Meeting Procedures) Regulations 2005 provide in respect of any matter discussed at a closed meeting that the general manager is to record in the minutes of the open meeting, in a manner that protects confidentiality, only the fact that the matter was discussed and is not to record in the minutes of the open meeting the details of the outcome unless the council determines otherwise.
2 The Local Government Act 1993 provides that a councillor must not disclose information seen or heard at a meeting or part of a meeting that is closed to the public that is not authorised by the council to be disclosed.
Similarly, an employee of a council must not disclose information acquired as such an employee on the condition that it be kept confidential.
3 In the event that additional business is required to be conducted by a council after the matter(s) for which the meeting has been closed to the public have been conducted, the Regulations provide that a council may, by simple majority, re-open a closed meeting to the public.”
34 Central Coast Council Minutes – 15 September 2014 G E N E R A L M A N A G E M E N T
GENERAL MANAGEMENT
276/2014 Minutes and notes of other organisations and committees of the Council
The Acting General Manager reported (reproduced in part) as follows:
“The following minutes and notes of committees of the Council and other organisations on which the Council has representation have been received:
…
The Local Government (Meeting Procedures) Regulations 2005 provide in respect of any matter discussed at a closed meeting that ‘the general manager –
(a) is to record in the minutes of the open meeting, in a manner that protects confidentiality, only the fact that the matter was discussed; and
(b) is not to record in the minutes of the open meeting the details of the outcome unless the council or council committee determines otherwise.’
The details of this matter are accordingly to be recorded in the minutes of the closed part of the meeting.”
277/2014 Local Government Association of Tasmania – 2014 Election
The Acting General Manager reported (reproduced in part) as follows:
“The purpose of this report is to seek the Council’s preferences for the filling out of the ballot paper for the position of President of the Local Government Association of Tasmania.
...
The Local Government (Meeting Procedures) Regulations 2005 provide in respect of any matter discussed at a closed meeting that ‘the general manager –
(a) is to record in the minutes of the open meeting, in a manner that protects confidentiality, only the fact that the matter was discussed; and (b) is not to record the details of the outcome unless the council or council committee determines otherwise.’
The details of this matter are accordingly to be recorded in the minutes of the closed part of the meeting.”
Central Coast Council Minutes – 15 September 2014 35 Closure
There being no further business, the Mayor declared the meeting closed at 9.01pm.
CONFIRMED THIS 20TH DAY OF OCTOBER, 2014.
Chairperson
(lmm:ar)
Appendices
Minute No. 263/2014 - Schedule of Development & Regulatory Services Determinations Minute No. 268/2014 - Schedule of Contracts & Agreements Minute No. 270/2014 - Schedule of Documents for Affixing of the Common Seal Minute No. 271/2014 - Financial statements Minute No. 273/2014 - Central Coast Cycle Strategy 2014-2019
36 Central Coast Council Minutes – 15 September 2014
Works Programme 2014 2015 (Schedule indicates site construction only) Task Name Budget Notes June July August September October November December January February March April May June Status 26 2 9 16 23 30 7 14 21 28 4 11 18 25 1 8 15 22 29 6 13 20 27 3 10 17 24 1 8 15 22 29 5 12 19 26 2 9 16 23 2 9 16 23 30 6 13 20 27 4 11 18 25 1 8 15 22 29 6 Works Schedule 2014 2015 $7,942,499 CAPITAL WORKS PROGRAMME 2014 15 $7,942,499 Strategic Projects $1,621,000 Reibey Street beautification $100,000 Eastern block Dial Regional Sports Complex $200,000 Design Wharf Redevelopment $176,000 Pontoon Wongi Lane bus interchange $320,000 Re arrangement to allow bus facilities Leven River seawall & pathway $825,000 Bridge to Airforce Park Property Management $442,000 Russell Avenue $42,000 Footpath, driveways etc. Dial Road Development $400,000 Surplus to DRSC south of Recreation Drive Works Depot $75,000 Ulverstone Depot Washdown Bay $70,000 Adjacent to Pound Painting Program Stage 2 $5,000 Shed alterations BSI audit Emergency Services $105,000 Forth River Flood Resilience Program $80,000 Extension of existing foreshore protection Buttons Creek Flood Resilience Program $15,000 SES Building & Equipment $10,000 Roads Urban Sealed $1,152,000 Street Resealing $250,000 Victoria Street Laneway $2,000 Traffic Management Safety Improvements $20,000 Victoria Street $100,000 Wongi Lane to Reibey Street Hobbs Parade $220,000 South Side, Helen Street to Queen Street Jermyn Street $50,000 South end near Trevor Street Henslowes Road $45,000 West of Southern Cross Drive Trevor Street $165,000 South Side 44 to Wrights Road Cornelia Street $35,000 Goddard Street to Hendriks Street Safe Cycling Routes $5,000 Railway Crossings $20,000 Kerb Ramps $40,000 Crescent Street/Reibey Street/Kings Parade Intersection $100,000 Knights Road/Bladen Lee Crescent Intersection Improvements $50,000 Improve sight distance Main Road Penguin $50,000 Pedestrian Crossing Roads Rural Sealed $1,187,000 Road Resealing $752,000 Raymond Road Landslip $10,000 1/07 South Riana Road $200,000 Final stage lookout to 1512 access Gunns Plains Road $100,000 Corner stabilisation works Leith Road $30,000 Embankment stabilisation Intersection Improvements $20,000 Nietta sight bench Nietta Drainage $20,000 Culvert upgrade Zig Zag Road Area Safety Audit $15,000 Traffic Management Safety Improvements $5,000 South Road Guardrail $35,000 Extension from existing to 530 access Footpaths $255,000 Victoria Street $140,000 Wongi Lane to Reibey Street Margaret Place/South Road $45,000 Upgrade walkway link Quadrant Lions Park $40,000 Reseal Midway Point Preservation Drive $30,000 Section of shared pathway opposite 196 Bridges $500,000 Penguin Creek Browns Lane Replacement $300,000 Replace Buttons Creek Edinborough Road Replacement $180,000 Replace Forth Overflow Painting $20,000 Re paint steel rail Carparks $325,000 River Road Recreation Ground $60,000 Reseal West Ulverstone Recreation Ground $60,000 Reseal
Date: Thu 4/09/14 19 Task Progress
Page 1 of 3 Works Programme 2014 2015 (Schedule indicates site construction only) Task Name Budget Notes June July August September October November December January February March April May June Status 26 2 9 16 23 30 7 14 21 28 4 11 18 25 1 8 15 22 29 6 13 20 27 3 10 17 24 1 8 15 22 29 5 12 19 26 2 9 16 23 2 9 16 23 30 6 13 20 27 4 11 18 25 1 8 15 22 29 6 Turners Beach Recreation Ground $40,000 Reseal Disabled Parking Spaces $25,000 Linked to Strategy outcomes 1/07 Carpark Signage $50,000 Linked to Strategy outcomes 1/07 Strategy Items $50,000 Furners, Safety, On Street Linemarking 1/07 Riana Recreation Ground $40,000 Gravel & Seal Drainage $110,000 Side Entry Pits $0 30/06 Amy Street Outfall $20,000 Remove old pipe support South Road/Lyndara Drive $0 Upgrade link Capacity issue 30/06 121A South Road $25,000 Upgrade link Capacity issue Trevor Street $0 1/07 116 Main Road $15,000 Replace blocked pipeline SW Management Plan Outcomes $0 1/07 Miscellaneous Drainage $10,000 1/07 Westland Drive $30,000 Install subsoil drainage 710 Forth Road $10,000 Rearrangement of pipe outlet Household Garbage $630,000 Penguin RDS Site Rehabilitation $475,000 Ulverstone Transfer Station Site Rehabilitation $10,000 Site investigation works. Resource Recovery Centre Site Development $10,000 General 1/07 Resource Recovery Centre Security System $10,000 Resource Recovery Centre Switchboard Upgrade $5,000 Resource Recovery Centre Rehabilitation $40,000 Rehabilitate finished levels. Resource Recovery Centre Leachate Improvements $50,000 Leachate drainage Castra Transfer Station Site Development & Rehabilitation $5,000 Site investigation. Preston Transfer Station Site Development & Rehabilitation $5,000 Safety Fall arrest Gate South Riana Transfer Station Site Development & Rehabilitation $5,000 Site investigation. South Riana Transfer Station Safety Improvements $15,000 Change to Preston.... Parks $271,500 Beach Access Upgrades $5,000 Beach Road Coastal Expansion/Tree Line $10,000 Bicentennial Park West Trail Upgrade $0 Bicentennial Park West Trail Upgrade $10,000 Flagpole Replacements $0 Flagpole Replacements $5,000 Hiscutt Park Siltation Investigation $5,000 Industrial Estate Greenbelt $15,000 Nicholsons Point Redevelopment $35,000 Park Asset Renewals $30,000 Park Signage Upgrades $10,000 Playground Renewals $42,000 Playground Upgrades (Open Space Plan) $14,500 Robins Roost Footpath $15,000 Sulphur Creek Hall Playground $50,000 Public Amenities $233,000 Public Toilet Location/Directional Signage $20,000 Merv Wright Fountain Upgrade $70,000 Public Toilet Signage Upgrade $5,000 Shrine Of Remembrance Security $3,000 Sulphur Creek Hall Toilets $100,000 Toilet Furniture Upgrade Program $5,000 Toilet Refurbishment Program $30,000 Cemeteries $60,000 Memorial Park Area E pre development $10,000 Memorial Park Entry Upgrade $10,000 Memorial Park Memorial Garden Extension $15,000 Memorial Park New Plinths $15,000
Date: Thu 4/09/14 19 Task Progress
Page 2 of 3 Works Programme 2014 2015 (Schedule indicates site construction only) Task Name Budget Notes June July August September October November December January February March April May June Status 26 2 9 16 23 30 7 14 21 28 4 11 18 25 1 8 15 22 29 6 13 20 27 3 10 17 24 1 8 15 22 29 5 12 19 26 2 9 16 23 2 9 16 23 30 6 13 20 27 4 11 18 25 1 8 15 22 29 6 Memorial Park Watering System $10,000 Administration Centre $125,000 Carpet Replacement Program $10,000 Lighting Replacement Program $10,000 Painting Program $5,000 Security Upgrade $30,000 Customer Service Counter 1st Floor $70,000 Cultural Activities $180,000 Ulverstone History Museum Electrical Upgrade $10,000 Ulverstone History Museum Façade Replacement Program $10,000 Ulverstone History Museum Insultation and Amenties $150,000 Ulverstone History Museum Weatherproofing $10,000 Control of Animals $25,000 Dog Exercise Area Penguin $25,000 Housing $140,000 Aged Person Home Units External Rehabilitation Program $50,000 Aged Person Home Units Electrial Replacement Program $15,000 Aged Person Home Units Fencing/Surrounds $10,000 Annlyn Units Footpath/Pavers Aged Person Home Units HWC Replacement Program $15,000 Aged Person Home Units Internal Rehabilitation Program $50,000 Cultural Amenities $130,000 Civic Centre Painting Program $10,000 Ulverstone Wharf Redevelopment Bollards $20,000 Ulverstone Wharf Redevelopment Storage Building $100,000 Public Halls and Buildings $35,000 Ulverstone Surf Club Balcony Structure Repair $5,000 Ulverstone Surf Club Roof Replacement Program $30,000 Caravan Parks $50,000 Ulverstone Caravan Park Electrical Upgrade $40,000 Ulverstone Caravan Park Painting Program $10,000 Swimming Pool and Waterslide $10,000 Waterslide Pump Renewal $10,000 Active Recreation $93,000 Goal Post Renewals $15,000 Recreation Ground Lighting Assessments $10,000 River Park Ground Resurface $10,000 Ulverstone, Showgrounds, Sports and Leisure Centre Community Precinct Carpark $13,000 Ulverstone, Showgrounds, Sports and Leisure Centre Pavillion Refurbishment $40,000 Poultry Pavillion Review $5,000 Recreation Centres $18,000 Ulverstone, Showgrounds, Sports and Leisure Centre Domitory Washing Machine $2,000 Ulverstone, Showgrounds, Sports and Leisure Centre Office Refurbishment $6,000 Ulverstone, Showgrounds, Sports and Leisure Centre Squash Court Lighting Upgrade $10,000 Program Visitor Information Services $150,000 Ulverstone Visitor Information Centre Partial Roof Replacement $150,000 Child Care $20,000 Ulverstone Child Care Centre Internal/external painting program $5,000 Ulverstone Child Care Centre Shade Sail $15,000 LEGEND $0 Not Started $0 Commenced (Construction or Preliminaries) $0 Complete $0 Deferred $0 Deferred
Date: Thu 4/09/14 19 Task Progress
Page 3 of 3 Central Coast Cycle Strategy 2014 - 2019 Central Coast Cycle Strategy
Central Coast Cycle Strategy
CONTENTS
P2 WHY A CENTRAL COAST CYCLE STRATEGY? P4 BACKGROUND P5 STRATEGIC CONTEXT P5 Federal P5 State P6 Local P7 WHAT WE STAND TO GAIN - BENEFITS P7 Health P8 Community P8 Environmental P9 Economic P10 OBJECTIVES P10 Developing the cycle culture P10 Education and information P11 Infrastructure P12 The pathway for developing a cycling culture P13 ACTIONS P14 PARTNERSHIPS P14 Community P15 Government and other agencies P15 Business P16 CENTRAL COAST CYCLE INFRASTRUCTURE P17 REFERENCES
1 Central Coast Cycle Strategy
WHY A CENTRAL COAST CYCLE STRATEGY?
The Central Coast Cycle Strategy is the Council’s five year plan to support the growing culture of cycling in Central Coast. The aim is to enhance cycling in Central Coast, making it an enjoyable, relaxing and safe experience, and Central Coast a place where cycling is a viable option for short and medium trips that cannot be made on foot.
A successful increase in the uptake of cycling in Central Coast offers considerable personal health benefits, cost savings and environmental, liveability and sustainability benefits, as well as positive economic and social outcomes.
Cycling is effective in creating strong social networks, local accessibility and a vibrant economy, while reducing negative environmental impacts of motor vehicle activity.
The Council acknowledges its responsibility to continue to improve cycling facilities where practicable and to provide for new and less confident riders.
By supporting a culture of cycling the Council is committed to providing for the future of our community.
This Strategy has been developed collaboratively with the Bike Strategy Advisory Group made up of community members who represent many aspects and disciplines of cycling from within the Central Coast area. The Council will also work collaboratively with various Tasmanian government agencies including Tasmania Police, Parks and Wildlife Service, Department of State Growth, neighbouring local councils and the Education Department.
2 Central Coast Cycle Strategy
A VISION FOR CYCLING IN THE CENTRAL COAST
The aim: To make cycling in Central Coast an enjoyable, relaxing and safe experience for on and off road users, and those utilising the area’s shared pathways. To see cycling embedded in the area’s way of life, bringing with it opportunities for social connection and inclusion, recreational activity, economic growth, positive environmental gains and individual and community health benefits.
3 Central Coast Cycle Strategy
BACKGROUND
The primary aim of the Central Coast Cycle Strategy is to encourage people travelling within or through Central Coast to make more of their trips by bicycle.
Cycling is experiencing improvement in participation rates, not only in Tasmania but in Australia and across the world, both as a means of transport, commuting and also as a recreational pursuit.
Central Coast has a long history of cycling, and is fortunate that linkages between rid- ers and the community are stronger here than they are in many other regions.
Although the community uptake of cycling and awareness of its benefits are on the increase, there still remain barriers to cycling which are not underestimated by the Council. These include safety concerns, increased traffic and changes in residential density. However our biggest challenge and yet the area where Central Coast potentially stands to gain the most, is in utilising the growing popularity of cycling to engage those members of the community currently not participating in regular physical activity. It is intended that this Strategy will provide a framework to support a vibrant and healthy cycling culture.
With roads that are great for road cycling and training, and many other roads that provide enough space for bikes and vehicles to travel comfortably together, Central Coast is well positioned to lead the way in being a Tasmanian rural area that establishes itself as a recognised ‘cycle’ area, with potential ongoing benefits from tourism, events and a cycle business economy.
The Council does however recognise that there is ongoing work to be done with the building of infrastructure and the provision of shared pathway amenity, particularly to encourage families and new users.
Opportunities for older citizens to maintain an active and healthy life has been identified as an objective in the Central Coast Positive Ageing Strategy. Where possible it is the Council’s aim that shared pathway infrastructure will provide the opportunity for mobility and social inclusion for as many user groups as possible including those using mobility scooters.
To date the Council’s planning approach to cycle infrastructure in Central Coast has been the building of a network spine, which will provide the framework for cycle infrastructure into the future.
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STRATEGIC CONTEXT
FEDERAL
The Australian National Cycling Strategy 2011 – 2016 Vision: “Double the number of people cycling in Australia over the next five years.”
STATE
Tasmanian Walking and Cycling for Active Transport Strategy Department of State Growth
Vision: “To create a safe, accessible and well-connected transport system that encourages more people to walk and cycle as part of their everyday journeys.”
Objectives: - - Reduce greenhouse emissions - Create liveable and accessible communities - Increase travel reliability - Encourage healthy, active communities - Integrated transport and land use planning
Tasmania’s Plan for Physical Activity 2011 – 2021 Developed by the Premier’s Physical Activity Council in consultation with the Tasmanian community Vision: “All Tasmanians experience and enjoy the many benefits of regular physical activity.” Goals: - Goal 1: Become a community that values and supports physical activity - Goal 2: Create built and natural environments that enable and encourage physical activity - Goal 3: Develop partnerships that build and share knowledge and resources - Goal 4: Increase opportunities for all Tasmanians to be physically active where they live, work and play.
The State Government is aiming for a 10% increase in the rates of participation in physical activity by different age groups by 2021.
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LOCAL
Four of the five strategic directions identified by the Council in its Strategic Plan 2014- 2024 relate to the Central Coast Cycle Strategy:
They are: Strategic Direction 1 - The Shape of the Place Strategic Direction 2 - A Connected Central Coast Strategic Direction 3 - Community Capacity and Creativity Strategic Direction 4 - The Environment and Sustainable infrastructure and have been identified to provide the guidance toward the outcomes of:
- socio-economic well-being - resilient and engaged community - healthy community and healthy lifestyle - healthy environment.
“It is always wonderful to watch the life skills that cycling teaches our youth. Discipline, life style skills, health choices, and road safety. Even if kids stop cycling when other life choices come into play those life skills stay, and that is invaluable.”
David Walker Australian Institute of Sport Cycling Coach
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WHAT WE STAND TO GAIN
HEALTH BENEFITS
Currently many Tasmanians are not enjoying the benefits of regular exercise. In 2007-08 seven out of 10 Tasmanians aged 18 years and over were classified as sedentary or having low levels of exercise.(1)
Studies show that physical inactivity contributes to 6.6% of the overall health burden in Australia, measured by the number of years lost due to ill health, disability and early death.(2)
It also contributes to over 16,000 deaths per year in Australia. The impact on the Australian economy in terms of direct health care costs, reduced productivity and increased mortality is estimated to be $13.8 billion each year.(3)
Population health underpins the social and “When I hit 104 kilograms, I knew that I had economic well-being of every community. to do something! Too busy to fit in a team sport, Research shows that improving the health and not much of a runner or gym-goer at the time, cycling provided the most flexible, affordable and of communities through primary health enjoyable option. I’m 25 kilograms lighter than prevention measures such as walking and I was when I bought my bike, and I’m happier, cycling are generally low cost and these healthier and more productive than I’ve ever been”. measures are more likely to have greater Daryl Connelly long-term success as they become part Business Advisor of everyday behaviour.(4) Cradle Coast Innovation
Cycling is a great means of integrating exercise into the day, and by cycling for transport people can engage in physical activity without investing extra time, money or commitment to making it happen. Transport options that provide incidental exercise offer people with busy lives a means of reducing their risk of disease and ill health. Leisure cycling is also an important means of getting daily exercise to maintain health and well-being.
Incorporating active travel into your daily routine can help 60 minutes is the to address overweight and obesity, reduce the risk of minimum daily cardiovascular disease, Type 2 diabetes and some forms requirement for (5) of cancer. physical activity for children under 18(6)
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COMMUNITY BENEFITS
Increasing cycling within a community makes it a more liveable place by increasing people’s opportunity for interaction, and infrastructure and land uses that support walking and cycling help to increase the attractiveness of a place to live, work, shop, and socialise in.(7)
A liveable community is also a more accessible community, where people are able to access everyday destinations through a number of transport options safely, using an acceptable amount of time, money and effort. A better designed and liveable community also benefits those who have lower levels of mobility such as aged, people with disabilities and chronic illness.
Cycling also provides a low cost form of transport for young people, Cycling enables low income families or those without access to a car.(7) people to interact socially Walking and cycling also extends the reach for public and feel more at home in transport and patronage of services such as buses.(7) their community. More people cycling and walking provides additional opportunity for social interaction on the streets ENVIRONMENTAL BENEFITS and this enhances a sense The transport choices we make play an important part in of community.(8) minimising the impact our community has on climate change. Even a small reduction in short vehicle trips can generate a significant reduction in emissions.
Cars and trucks also contribute to other environmental issues such as noise and air pollution, and road traffic can also affect water quality and contribute to a loss of biodiversity due to road run-off.(9)
• Road Transport contributes 92% of transport greenhouse emissions in Tasmania. • Greenhouse gas emissions by cars have grown by 21% Active transport can reduce congestion and Australia-wide since 1990 and are expected to rapidly parking problems, leading increase without any form of rapid intervention.(10) to healthier local • If a person walked or cycled to work 3km each way they environments and reduce their greenhouse emissions by 350kg per year.(11) communities.(8)
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ECONOMIC BENEFITS
With cycling now rated as the fourth most popular physical activity in Tasmania(12) there is an opportunity for growth in Central Coast of business and tourism experiences such as those which have been developed in other areas. These include, but are certainly not limited to, high country cycle tours, the development of identified farm gate produce, “foodie” or culinary cycle trails and experiences, winery tours, art tours and off-road cycle parks.
Central Coast has already seen the positive impact that the holding of events such as The Cranky Penguin, held at the Penguin Mountain Bike Park, can have on the local economy. The Cranky Penguin event largely accounted for the unprecedented interest in riding in the park (639 visitations) in the month the event was held, October 2013. The opportunity exists for this facility, in time, to become a cycling holiday destination of choice.
Central Coast is also host to criterium cycling tours which increase visitor traffic to the area bringing potential positive impacts for hospitality and business.
Opportunities exist as Central Coast and neighbouring councils expand their cycle infrastructure to further develop opportunities for tasting trails and local cycling experiences.
The economic incentives for people to choose to ride their bicycles are strong, namely savings on fuel and car registration, insurance and maintenance.(12)
More broadly, land values tend to increase substantially where there are high-quality cycle facilities.(13)
Research has also shown that retail businesses can benefit from Cycle tourists stay more people using bicycles to shop, not to mention growth in longer in an area and spend cycling businesses themselves.(14) more than the average visitor. They go to smaller out of the way places and therefore have the potential to bring economic benefits to rural areas and townships.(15)
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OBJECTIVES
DEVELOPING THE CYCLE CULTURE
It is the Council’s objective to strengthen and support the culture of cycling: • Where cycling is the first choice for trips between 2km and 7km. • Where cycling is the natural and best choice for many trips. • Where the benefits of cycling are acknowledged by all sectors within the community. • Where the Council’s priorities reflect investment where feasible in cycling education, information and infrastructure.
EDUCATION AND INFORMATION
Comprehensive promotion and engagement programs are essential in supporting a culture of cycling, to do this the Council will aim to:
• Raise the profile of cycling in a positive manner through media, educational institutions and workplaces and the wider community to develop the culture of cycling.
• Promote Central Coast’s existing infrastructure and network of cycle friendly routes as a basis for creating an understanding, acceptance and uptake of cycling as a safe, enjoyable and relaxing option for travel and recreation.
• Encourage cycling for recreation, for not only the health benefits but as an introduction to converting people from non-cyclists to cyclists and then from recreational cyclists to commuters.
• Work closely with agencies including the State and Federal Governments, other local councils etc. to develop a cycling culture.
• Support initiatives such as “Ride2School”, “Ride2Work”, “Way2Go” and National Bike Week and other bike events and initiatives that help build a bike culture.
• Support initiatives and programs such as driver education, cycling skills courses, enforcing traffic laws and reducing motor vehicle speeds to improve the safety of cyclists and to change the perception of cycling as being unsafe. Promote to all transport vehicle users, respect for each other and use of all infrastructure graciously and safely.
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INFRASTRUCTURE
A high quality cycling network that can be comfortably used by people of all ages and abilities removes the significant barrier of safety concerns, and therefore helps to make cycling enjoyable. People are more likely to cycle if the facilities and surrounding area are perceived to be safe.
To help create this environment the Council will:
• Pursue a cohesive high quality network of cycle friendly routes accessing popular destinations within Central Coast that are suitable for use by those of all ages, abilities and backgrounds.
• Plan for further development, such as completing potential track loops, linking in with public transport, way finder signage and end of trip facilities.
• Develop way finding signage to identify routes that avoid busy roads and to educate other road users to see cycling as a valid method of transport and cyclists as valid road users.
• Promote routes to popular destinations.
• Plan for and create bike friendly town centres.
• Express a long term commitment to supporting a culture of cycling and engage key partners and stakeholders in prioritising investments in cycling.
“Using a bicycle offers me the opportunity to enjoy the sights, smells and sounds of the surrounding countryside. It provides me with economic travel and it is faster than walking so greater distances can be covered; it supports the environment; generates a climate of consideration towards others and helps me to keep healthy’’.
Keith Price Chairman - Safe Roads for Cyclists
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THE PATHWAY FOR DEVELOPING A CYCLING CULTURE
- End of trip facilities, e.g. showers - Create culture of small steps for - Routes with minimal dog-legs and long term gain obstructions such as traffic lights - Driver and rider education to better - Underground passes for cyclists share the roads on highways - Identify and promote various rides - Bike racks on buses so journeys typified by their town or typography can be one way or broken up or level - Strategic parking to shorten rides - Identified quickest routes to town - Safe, secure and central bike storage
TRANSPORT RECREATION
COMMUTING FITNESS HIGHER INTENSITY
LOCAL TRIPS RECREATION MODERATE INTENSITY
- Encourage people to ride as a family unit - For families, create end of journey - Identify safe “learner” spaces for children experiences, “I rode all the way to...” that are “training wheel” friendly - Build lay-bys for family journeys - Underground passes for cyclists on - Education and information highways on available rides - Cycling education for parents and - Strategic parking to shorten rides children to encourage cycling to school - Identify and document quickest routes - Bike rider training like “driver” training - Safe, secure and central bike parking - Free entry to events where people attend at destinations on their bike - Develop better end of journey linkages - Identify safe adult leaner spaces - Information on bike routes - Infrastructure must cater for mobility vehicles where possible
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ACTIONS
Th Council’s leadership through this Cycle Strategy will improve accessibility, social inclusion, health outcomes, environment, air quality and community safety. The Council will take a leading role to:
• Consider cycling infrastructure in future planning deliberation;
• Raise the profile of cycling and promoting its benefits;
• Engage the community including residents, businesses and educational institutions in planning, promoting and supporting cycling through information, events and promotional activities celebrating a culture of cycling;
• Where possible, ensure that transport and land use developments allow for direct, convenient and interconnected routes between key destinations and residential areas; • Work with the Cradle Coast Mountain Bike club to further develop mountain biking in the area.
Physical activity is ranked second to tobacco control as the most important factor in disease prevention in Australia(16)
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PARTNERSHIPS
COMMUNITY
• Engage with the community to understand emerging “Not many places in the world are as cycling issues in the area. lucky as the Cradle Coast to have so • Research the causes of any issues and develop solutions many wonders of nature and beautiful in partnership with users and other key stakeholders. towns at our door step; all in a perfect balance, rivers, mountains, forest, • Partner with schools and education institutions, children, beach, good food and other services all parents, families and teachers to improve routes to within 15 minutes of each other. school, and provide resources and cycle infrastructure. The benefits of opening good quality • Work with neighbouring councils to increase connectivity, mountain bike trails are unmeasurable, level of service and provide consistency across boundaries. and the impact it has in small • Partner with community groups, neighbourhood houses communities all around the world is and health promotion organisations to promote cycling equivalent to opening a ski field in and provide cycle training for beginners and less town. The tourism increase and economical input to the local business confident cyclists. is a proven fact, schools and local • Work with public transport providers to improve communities have easier access to provision for bike riders. nature and healthier lifestyle. • Partner with community and sporting groups to support The increase in mountain bike users each cycling for recreation and health. year is exponential in all categories: Cross Country, Enduro, Down Hill etc., but the everyday riders and families is even bigger, giving greater strength to the mountain bike tourism. Nowadays people travel in bike holidays as commonly as ski holidays. After travelling and working in the best riding spots in the world and with the mountain bike coach and trail designer eye, I cannot find a better place to live.”
Marcelo Cardona Mountain Bike Association Australia Coach
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GOVERNMENT AND OTHER AGENCIES
• Build relationships and effective communication within all areas of the Council to ensure an understanding of the benefits of cycling. • Advocate to government agencies and the State and Federal Governments for road rules, design guidelines and processes that prioritise cyclists’ safety and amenity. • Advocate to Federal and State Governments and government agencies for funding and partnership opportunities to improve the cycling network and for investment and partnership to promote cycling. • Promote to other regional councils support for walking, cycling, and public transport as an alternative to dependence on private transport as per planning scheme objectives. • Provide a high level of pedestrian, cycling and vehicular movement and connectivity with the town of Penguin as per the planning scheme. • Work across the Council to implement cycling infrastructure as opportunities arise. • Work with neighbouring councils to increase connectivity, level of service and provide consistency across boundaries. • Partner with Tasmania Police to increase enforcement of road rules and to encourage safe behaviour by all road users. • Partner with the Parks and Wildlife Service and other agencies to identify and promote tracks and areas suitable for cycling.
BUSINESS
• Support business in promoting on-street cycling facilities such as cycle parking, and encourage businesses to install cycle parking on their property and amenities for cyclists. • Facilitate conversations with business that foster creative business ideas that support cycle activity, e.g. pop up coffee shop.
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CENTRAL COAST CYCLE INFRASTRUCTURE
The Central Coast Council has already made considerable investment to date in cycling infrastructure and facilities. Currently there are bike racks situated at: • La Mar - Turners Beach • Beach Road toilets - Ulverstone • Wharf Precinct - Ulverstone • North Reibey Street car park - Ulverstone • Recreation Centre - Ulverstone • Waterslide - Ulverstone
SHARED PATHWAY
The shared pathway currently runs from Anzac Park along the waterfront at the Wharf Precinct, before winding its way through Bicentennial and Fairway Parks and on from Ulverstone to Turners Beach.
Looking forward; subject to funding and community consultation, the Council will investigate the viability and potential for infrastructure such as: • completion of the Coastal pathway to include West Ulverstone, Forth River Rail Bridge and Penguin to Sulphur Creek; • pump and jump park; • learner bicycle course, and • criterium track.
“Cycling for any age not only has physical, emotional and social benefits, it gives us back the thing in life it’s too easy to lose sight of and that’s FUN!
I would say to anyone who hasn’t ridden a bike in a while – dust it off and start pedalling. Cycling is fun, and fun is the best way I can think of to stay young.”
Anne Langham Bike Rider and Mother
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REFERENCES 1. Australian Bureau of Statistics, National Health Survey 2007-08, Canberra 2009. 2. DA Cadlihac, A. Magnus, T.Cumming, L.Sheppard, D. Pearce & R. Carter, The health and economic benefits of reducing disease risk factors. Vic Health Melbourne 2009. 3. Medibank, The cost of physical inactivity, Medibank Private Sydney 2008. 4. Tasmanian Walking and Cycling For Active Transport Strategy, Department of State Growth, Tasmania. 5. The Cost of Physical Inactivity; Medibank Private, October 2008. 6. Hendriksen, Ingrid. (1996), The Effect of Commuter Cycling on Physical Performance and on Coronary Heart Disease Risk Factors. 7. Tasmanian Walking and Cycling for Active Transport Strategy, Department of State Growth, Tasmania. 8. Australian Institute of Health and Welfare: Australia’s health 2006, AIHW Catalogue AU73. 9. Queensland Government, Department of Main Roads and Transport, Cycling Benefits, 2014. 10. Australian Greenhouse Accounts 2006, Department of Climate Change and Energy Efficiency. 11. Victoria Transport Policy Institute, Transportation Cost and Benefits Analysis II, Congestion costs; Sharp I, 1994, The national forum for coronary heart disease prevention. 12. Tasmanian Walking and Cycling for Active Transport Strategy, Department of State Growth, Tasmania. 13. Darebin Cycling Strategy 2013-2018, Darebin City Council. 14. What is the economic contribution of cyclists compared to car drivers in inner suburban Melbourne’s shopping strips?, Alison Lee 2008 15. Group Work Pty Ltd, 2005, A report for the Greater Western Tiers Tourism area, Tasmania. 16. British Medical Association, 1992, Cycling Toward Health and Safety.
The Central Coast Council would like to acknowledge the contribution made by community representatives in the development of this Cycle Strategy.
Andrew Leary, Ben Kearney, Anne Langham, Dallas Page, Danny King, Daryl Connelly, Gary Williams, David Walker, Greg Osborne, Keith Price, Greg Johnson, Marcus Langham, Marcelo Cardona, Nic Deka, Shaun Conkie and Tanya Dunnings.
17 PO Box 220 / DX 70506 19 King Edward Street Ulverstone Tasmania 7315 Tel 03 6429 8900 Fax 03 6425 1224 [email protected] www.centralcoast.tas.gov.au