Strategic Plan Review Community Engagement Strategy Outcomes

Supplementary Report

August 2011

Prepared by Strategic Planning Unit Tel: 9710 0684

© Sutherland Shire Council 2011

Table of Contents

Introduction ...... 1

Section 1: Survey Responses ...... 2

Vision ...... 2 People ...... 7 Place ...... 19 Nature ...... 32 Governance ...... 42

Section 2: Workshop Responses ...... 50

Vision ...... 50 People ...... 53 Place ...... 57 Nature ...... 61 Governance ...... 65 Strategic Plan Content ...... 67

Introduction

Community strategic planning for Sutherland Shire has been undertaken by Council in partnership with the community since the late 1990s. Sutherland Shire‟s first Strategic Plan Our Shire, Our Future – Our Guide for Shaping the Shire to 2030 was adopted by Council in 1999 and subsequently reviewed in 2007. Historically the Plan has been developed with extensive community, stakeholder, agency and Council involvement. Over 15,000 people were involved in the first edition and approximately 3,000 participated in the 2007 review. Council embarked on a review of Our Shire, Our Future in April 2011. Its purpose is to ensure that the existing Strategic Plan is aligned with: the community‟s hopes and aspirations for the future emerging issues and trends and the requirements for integrated planning and reporting of the NSW Local Government Act 1993.

As a foundation to the review, Council has engaged members of the community and its own organisation in discussion. The methodology was developed to ensure that all people who were interested had an opportunity to get involved and share their opinions, thoughts and aspirations.

Five hundred and forty four people who live, work or operate a business within the Sutherland Shire had their say on their desired future for the Shire. 485 were members of the community and 59 internal to Council.

This report contains a compilation of all the responses participants provided during the community engagement process. These responses have not been altered and are presented as provided to Council by participants. It is prepared as a supplement to the following publication: Strategic Plan Review Community Engagement Strategy Outcomes, August 2011. The latter contains an analysis of participant responses contained within this report.

Strategic Plan Review Supplementary Report 1

Section 1: Survey Responses

Vision

Accessible and providing the transport and parking to be able to go and use these natural facilities

Accountable A transparent, understanding Council By reducing Council expenditure by 25% in 4 years by reducing garbage collection Ensure that the people and their points of view are actually taken into account. For honesty's sake delete "accountable decision making" I don't think there is enough community consultation about plans and I don't think the Council takes on residents, views only the views of big business who can afford to pay to get there developments views approved I think the Council has lost the plot!!!! Reduce Council expenditure by 25% over 4 years by reducing garbage collection and increasing recycling and green waste home composting the mistrust amongst Sutherland Shire rate payers and Council development & planning decision makers is quite obvious through transparent and accountable decision making

Affordable I would add '... to attain safe, healthy, active and affordable lifestyles...'

Clean It should include a little on infrastructure and cleanliness.

Connected Actively involved community add something about diversity - I hope that the Shire is a more culturally and linguistically diverse place in 2030 than it is now An understanding Council that encourages a compassionate and humble community. Respecting and encouraging other cultures and nationalities. Clarify that respect is for all people, inclusive of residents and visitors Community that values multiculturalism, the contributions of traditional owners past and present.... I would like to add the word 'happy' in there too. I‟d like to see the vision statement include references to being culturally diverse and more emphasis on people and the environment being Sutherland Shire‟s priority i.e. A culturally diverse community working together, to attain safe, healthy and active lifestyles, preserving the natural wildlife and environment for future generations, respecting people and nature. Decisions made in and for the community are 100% accountable, and development and economic opportunities are sustainable, of low impact to the natural environment and in the community‟s best interest. Include a phrase about multiculturalism- encouraging it, supporting it, attracting people of varying ethnic back grounds to live/work/play in the Shire include diversity and respect for all cultures It assumes 'community' already exists. There the creation and sustaining of a sense of community is needed. It does not embrace the assimilation of other cultures.

Strategic Plan Review Supplementary Report 2

It is important to emphasise that the community is socially inclusive - it embraces diversity. make a reference to multiculturalism Need to have a statement of inclusiveness. The Shire can be a conservative and unfriendly place for anyone who is a little different. No mention of different cultures within the Sutherland Shire. Possible add some element of multicultural inclusions. something which includes our growing community The inclusion of developing a sense of community; a notion of tolerance towards others The phrases suggest an insular 'local' approach for the Shire where the Shire is part of the biggest city in Australia; it is not an island. With respect for the environment and people including cultural/sexually diverse peoples Would suggest adding something in the vision about being inclusive to all cultures and embracing diversity

Culture Emphasis is upon environment which is commendable, but "lifestyles" seems to reflect sport and activities for the young; it does not reflect culture, entertainment and heritage and activities for the seniors, aged, frail and disabled. I'd like to see a connection to our Dharawal people as they hold a very honoured place in the life of people in the Shire as they were the first to met the British at Kurnell - we should be more proud of this. The Shire has a vibrant arts and cultural life and Council is a key catalyst for this. Should be reflected in the statement There is a focus on healthy, active lifestyles but little on cultural & performing arts.

Green By reducing garbage collection and increasing recycling and home based green composting I think there should be more reference to the issue of climate change and a low carbon future. The word 'nature' sounds quaint to me. Maybe 'the natural environment' instead? I would like our Council to be at the cutting edge of best practice for sustainability I would like to put more emphasis on animals and the environment Sustainable living

Strategic Plan Review Supplementary Report 3

Leadership Need to be able to see how Council convert the vision into hands-on physical activities Social planning for the Shire should also recognise the changing needs of the residents of the Shire - a growing affluence, lifestyle changes, sophisticated entertainment alternatives and better transport management (less crowded roads). The Shire needs to be more visionary The Statement seeks mediocrity with no sense of difference to any other suburban LGA in Sydney or Australia for that matter. The objectives go without saying. Rather, safe, healthy and active lifestyles could be achieved through a progressive and half interesting built form which would come about through a focus on economic development of our centres to create a degree of urbanity that differentiates us from the suburban malaise. Accountable decision making does not mean avoidance of risk taking to achieve something out of the ordinary. The vision statement itself is fine; however the actions of the Council and relevant government bodies do not reflect this. The words are great we just need to see action.

Prosperous Add technology - technology is the future Highly educated Small business in the Shire has its back to the wall and is becoming extinct, without help or assistance, no one remains accountable for the demise of small business in the Shire, yet someone/some dept. has the responsibility for the demise of small business in the Shire.

Sustainably developed Concerned about development and increase in population Ensuring lifestyle is not adversely affected by over-development and inflated population would be an important issue to include. Over-population will lead to degradation of the region's natural and domestic landscape and increase cultural and social problems, which would be important to control now before these issues get out of control. I have little regard for this statement when I hear that a proposal for the development of white rock (Aboriginal land) is on the cards. How could this massive development be in the interests of our future? The Council has done nothing to down size developments in the Shire at all. Does quality of life mean paying your debts of with the Shires lifestyle. I have lost faith in development & planning of Sydney in general, particularly with reference to Cronulla, this area has been just a small slice of Australia that could have remained well kept, well planned, catering for Shire residents and visitors. I fear we are all reminded of what can become disastrous results of mismanaged development in the Shire, for example: in Cronulla making reference to the high rise apartment block that sits upon a hill top looking down upon/across Cronulla, as an ugly reminder of development mismanagement, indeed corruption. I feel insecure that this type of development will not continue at an increased rate of greed for money, profit before residents, the mistrust amongst Sutherland Shire rate payers and Council development & planning decision makers is quite obvious. I want NO further development, simply a better re-arrangement of the use of our existing infrastructure. No more extra marinas...land-based storage facilities instead. No more high-rise, just medium density expansion on pre-existing home sites. It is very sad to see the sporting fields go that were sold very cheap to the Sharks, for preservation for our youth. And to try and fence in every bid of nature like the plan is for Kernel is not very user friendly or appealing to look at. What a waste of money and fun for residents less apartments everywhere you look less units Strategic Plan Review Supplementary Report 4

Maintaining quality of life; not over-development. Menai West destroys the respect to nature I'd suggest. something about ensuring the lifestyle isn't adversely affected by excessive or inappropriate urban development stop over development Sustainable development is what I am concerned about X2 Sustainable growth is an issue for Australia and indeed an issue of major concern for our own local Shire. There are too few young families able to afford living in the Shire, while tax payers living in the Shire have become the middle class poor. It is time to reflect on what is left of good community activities, places to visit and enjoy without costing a bucket and with commitment to not destroy what is left. Take a breather from allowing high rise and major businesses taking over whatever space is available just because town planning and development can, nurture what is left perhaps it is not too late to make a difference, make the changes needed to provide a sustainable future to 2030 for all Shire residents and visitors to enjoy. There is little confidence by Shire residents of the decision making processes to be fair and equitable to residents of the Shire, profit before people in the form of high rise development has taken over. There remains an ugly reminder in Cronulla in the form of a hideously tall block of flats perched upon a hill of how wrong development & Shire planners can get. The likelihood of losing our carefree, beach and park side lifestyle, our family friendly culture and the ability to be able to park in or around Shire activities is obviously in a mess due to disgraceful planning and development. Small business in the Shire has its back to the wall and is becoming extinct, without help or assistance, no one remains accountable for the demise of small business in the Shire, yet someone/some dept. has the responsibility for the demise of small business in the Shire.

Well and healthy Healthy Lifestyle and activities is something that is definitely appealing about living in the Sutherland Shire.

Structure of vision A community working together though accountable decision making to create economic opportunities and sustainable development, respecting people and nature, to attain safe, healthy and satisfying lifestyles A community working together, to attain safe, healthy and active lifestyles, for its members through accountable decision making, that achieves sustainable development and economic opportunities, which respect people and nature. delete nature and add environment I would add the words "long term" before sustainable development. It is a bit long! Maybe put in a full stop somewhere. It's not a very well constructed sentence. If it's going to be written this way it's better to be put in bullet points. It's very long - suggest you remove the first line as it is not a marketing blurb. Make it more meaningful. It sounds like everybody else's "vision" statement so could be applied to anywhere. It should be something that identifies "The Shire", apart from the geographical references! Needs to be less "corporate" and invoke more emotional connection with residents and the community. Current statement feels like you are trying to cover everything. Accountable decision-making, achieving sustainable development, etc is a function of local government/ Council, not the "community working together". Remove the commas after "together" and "opportunities". Shaped also by its people, clubs… Simplify it - it is trying to cover everything when it should focus on the key things Strategic Plan Review Supplementary Report 5

South of Sydney, set amongst bays, beaches, rivers and national parks, lays the Sutherland Shire. Respecting people and nature this is a community working together toward a safe, healthy and active lifestyle for its residents through accountable decision making, sustainable development and economic acumen. Statement is too corporatised if intending to be publically recognised, softer language is required and something shorter The first part about location is unnecessary for the vision. We know who and where we are. The Statement seeks mediocrity with no sense of difference to any other suburban LGA in Sydney or Australia for that matter. The objectives go without saying. Rather, safe, healthy and active lifestyles could be achieved through a progressive and half interesting built form which would come about through a focus on economic development of our centres to create a degree of urbanity that differentiates us from the suburban malaise. Accountable decision making does not mean avoidance of risk taking to achieve something out of the ordinary. This vision statement is so full of corporate jargon that it is meaningless, disingenuous and, quite frankly, try hard. In addition someone has gone a little overboard with superfluous commas. I suggest that you start with the end in mind: e.g. a highly educated, healthy and actively involved community that values multiculturalism, sustainable living, and the contributions of traditional owners past and present.... too wordy Too wordy. You need to capture this current vision statement into a snappy tagline that we can all remember and quote. It's too long and wordy. Get your marketing people onto it! We need a Nike - Just do it. Your Vision should be short e.g. A community working together, to attain safe, healthy and active lifestyles with respect for people and nature.

Other A place where the v8's meet the beach Adding: and the state government dumping ground for heavy industry. Oil refinery +desalination plant. No lads

Strategic Plan Review Supplementary Report 6

People

Local community safety A 3 strike policy regarding trouble at the venue. i.e. 3 strikes no more venue. A community where people have respect and take ownership for public property. A safe community in which people can be healthy and active. A safe community where we all can walk the streets at any time of day and feel safe, as we were able to do say 10 year ago ...and NOT be a afraid of what we may encounter, abuse / assaults etc. Respect for others. Being safe within your own community. Being safe. Can enjoy the Shire and feel safe. Clean, safe environment, Community safety (less crime). Community safety, activity, jobs. Community safety. Connected & safe community, Connected and safe community so people feel they are part of the place, know each other, more of a village feel. Connected and safe community, Connected and safe community, Opportunities for learning (seminars as well as educational facilities like TAFE and university). Connected and safe community. Connected and safe community. Connected and safe community. Local jobs and economic opportunities. Ensuring all people, irrespective of race or religion, feel safe to walk the streets of our Shire at any time of the day or night. This is only achieved by increased police presence, improved lighting and education. Ensuring appropriate investment in policing and community safety. Focus on rebellious youth more. That should be priority number 1. It has gone unnoticed for too long and far too much money is being spent on graffiti cleanup, and too many people are being bullied, robbed, and extorted. Open your eyes Council. The Shire is bigger than just the physical elements! Given the shift in personal safety, I doubt whether the next generations will remain safe either in the Shire or elsewhere; citizens seemingly have become complacent about the increase of crime. Having a safe community is important for me. I don‟t think it's acceptable for drunk people to stagger about Cronulla on hot summer nights, yet the alcohol lobby gets late opener clubs and pubs to stay open...how? Just having bouncers on the licensed premise door means that the drunkards go up the street to cause problems outside someone else's door... I have been a resident of the area for 55 years and have noticed the overpopulation of the area is becoming a major problem, contributing to more violence and disharmony. This decline is very disheartening as we all should be able to enjoy living in this beautiful Shire without feeling scared to go out. I am aware of numerous assaults of innocent people walking in the mall in Cronulla and around beach areas. These assaults have not been captured by CCTV and therefore the perpetrators did not receive any penalty. There must be greater deterrents for this type of behaviour for the peace and tranquillity of the Shire's law-abiding citizens. I think it is important people are engaged in the community and kept safe. I was born & raised in the Shire. It angers me to see what it has become, too much crime, graffiti, sand hills gone. I could go on!

Strategic Plan Review Supplementary Report 7

Increased police numbers and obvious presence, particularly at Cronulla police station and around the Cronulla mall and beach areas. Increased and better positioned CCTV cameras to ensure those who want to disturb the peace of our area are indeed captured, as this has not been the case in many circumstances I'm aware of. It is difficult to watch the change from a safe/protective society to that of crime, personal and property destruction. I prefer all clubs, nightclubs be closed at latest by 1 am Fridays and on weekends, by midnight Mon - Thur. Without this constraint by introducing reduced trading hours by law, there remains an opportunistic pattern of crime in Sydney and definitely in our home Shire. It is all about profit and crime, not people and safe lifestyle. Once a reduction is imposed upon the sale of alcohol, then perhaps we will be grown up enough to address the issue of drugs and drug dealing that is prevalent in Sydney and indeed in our home Shire. It is ironic that the major local jobs and economic opportunities in the Shire adversely affect a safe community and healthy lifestyle. E.g. Lucas Heights Nuclear Reactor, Caltex Oil Refinery, desalination plant and the flight path over Kurnell. All of these industries create jobs but at a cost of pollution and uncertainty for the community. Notice how North Shore residents don't have them! Keep young Australian people and families safe and keep them living in the Shire. Law and order are very important. Law enforcement, providing opportunities for the youth, seniors and others through community programs. Offering courses to assist people in keeping the Shire an active, safe and environmental place to live in. Lighting/footpaths to make local areas safer to be in. Lighting/footpaths, etc. Maintaining a safe community for people to live and want to live in. Management of events, e.g. Australia Day - appropriate numbers of police. Many of the other outcomes come from a well connected and safe community. People need to feel that socially unacceptable behaviour is acted on so that it doesn't become unmanageable. This includes graffiti, litter, violence, binge drinking, homelessness, dumping etc; I appreciate only some of these are in Councils control. More local police on the beat. More police presence in Bundeena and Bonnie Vale, the area is attracting Muslim youth during the evenings, especially weekends looking for local girls and a fight. More police, more strict laws regarding alcohol and those who disrupt the community whether they be adults or juveniles. More policing to make the Sutherland Shire safe again. Most of these issues are enabling factors, not outcomes. On protection of our places, mainly from graffiti, I believe we should have a policy of same day removal, no matter how many resources are required, and send the cost back to the community as a rate levy and which landlords can pass onto tenants (and welfare tenants) as rent increases. It's a community problem and everyone needs to be responsible. It's no use pointing at the Council and saying "What are you doing about it?" We need peer groups not to applaud irresponsible "street art" but to say "Thanks, moron, now my parents can't afford to buy me an Xbox because the rent's gone up". Neighbourhood Watch should be promoted and supported. Friendly police presence and patrols increased, and surveillance cameras installed wherever possible mainly on trouble spots. People supporting each other to make the community safe for the young, old, and people with disabilities. Personal safety in all areas and at all times. Plenty of local police. Public spaces are safe to use. Put money into safety in the community.

Strategic Plan Review Supplementary Report 8

Railway stations, Cronulla Mall, shopping centres, parks, walkways; all should be kept safe and clean. Safe communities - police being seen around the community. Safe community x 4 Safe community. Good lighting, safe appearing areas, adequate police. Safe environment. Safe parks, bike tracks, graffiti control. Loitering- increased police presence. Safe people. Safe places to meet outside the home for all age groups. Safer communities where public spaces are better designed and encourage public use. Safety Safety in the community. Safety is extremely important. Safety is huge. Definitely feel that as a community we should feel safe in our own home town, a strong sense of community helps this. Safety is important for all people within the community. Safety is most important. I want my children to be able to go out at night and not have to worry about them being victims of crime / aggressive behaviour. Educate children against antisocial behaviour and violence. Education needs to be improved at a school and TAFE level. Parents need to take a stronger role in bringing up their children and not expect schools to do it for them. Safety is the most important. Safe in your own home, safe to shop or do anything normally considered part of the Australian way of life. It is also important that everyone have equal access to education and health as their right. Safety taxi rank security at Sutherland is good, not sure if they're still running, but fantastic initiative. Not everyone who gets a taxi is drunk; it protects those of us from people who are, and those who are intimidating late at night etc. Safety, limit anti-social behaviour, healthy active people through quality sports, medical and health facilities. Be mindful to those disabled, frail aged or women with children in getting around and make neighbourhoods more accessible. Safety, looking after the youngest (15-25yo). Safety, more police patrolling the streets. Do something about graffiti, punish the offender. Safety/ freedom from harassment/bullying on the trains/buses for our children travelling to high schools. Security for all residents so they can feel safe and comfortable in their environment. Plenty of leisure activities and space for residents and lots of recreational activities for people of all ages. Building local infrastructure is important for the Shire to create a safe economic local area so residents have job opportunities. Security of persons and personal property, safe school environments, access to recreational facilities. Set closing times for drinking venues to stop all night drinking. Street lighting, discourage activities that will cause unsafe areas things like brothels, seedy nightclubs, drug, needle exchanges, methadone clinics - Kings Cross is a good place for them as is well away physically. Strong supported policing. Grants available to support programs for people in need whether youth, the elderly, disabled etc. Keep TAFE strong and supported as it is a quality deliverer of education. Support local businesses, especially small businesses. Support our police. Teach at schools the impact of vandalism. The cost impacts, how it reflects from a visual perspective, how having no graffiti gives the perception of a cleaner safer environment. Have no-tolerance enforcement in this area. That we have a safe community.

Strategic Plan Review Supplementary Report 9

The safety of my children and myself are priority, if not available we are unable to enjoy the active lifestyle we desire. These days there is a great emphasis to reduce anti social behaviour. Threat to personal safety is minimised 24/7. Vandalism and crime. We have a very low crime rate in this area, but people do not understand this because of the highly emotive and reactive reporting that happens with any crime. People should be encouraged that this is a safe place to live, and be encouraged to keep it that way. We should all feel safe. We should all strive to rid our beautiful Shire of graffiti by working together to teach offenders it is very wrong to vandalise other people‟s property. We can never have too many opportunities for learning; it promotes a feeling of well being and knowledge throughout our community. Local jobs are a wonderful idea, keeps us connected.

Sense of community A broad definition of culture that includes respect for all people. Opening up our community to a full range of cultures. Acceptance of diversity Access to a meaningful and engaged cultural life. Affordable community events, activities An inclusive community that can look to the future and beyond our own boundaries. Being involved in community programs. By finding ways of encouraging people to participate in positive community causes, people will feel better connected to each other whilst helping improve the locality for all. A spin off is that they will better interrelate and help each other rather than be disconnected from their neighbours. Celebration of cultural and linguistic diversity. Community events, availability of community information via website or other easily accessible means. Community volunteerism is going to be more important as the community ages. We need to have younger people volunteering and taking part in civic life instead of taking from it. Connected communities. Connected community x 2 Connected people. Education, effective communication in the community. Diversity and cultural tolerance. Addressing and minimising antisocial behaviour. Embracing cultural diversity and community. Educating and promoting that all cultures are welcome in the area and removing the stigma of the "white Anglo Saxon" culture that currently exists. Embracing of multicultural communities to add vibrant and enriched experiences. Encourage more active, social events for small communities, not huge events that usually take place in Cronulla. For example, Carols in the Park are usually a smaller event just for the surrounding communities, as well as open air cinema. More should be encouraged. Encouraging a sense of community and belonging. Ensure links are strong to areas outside the Shire to avoid an insular community and increase the appeal for investment from outside. Ensuring that people are supported through local networks that bring people together based on their needs (e.g. new mums, retraining, mental health, parenting, youth, etc). Environmentally friendly. Equality. Treating others how you expect to be treated in return.

Strategic Plan Review Supplementary Report 10

Expanding the people's mindset to the greater Sydney, national and global opportunities. The risk is that the people often focus on the wonderful Shire and are not as open to the wider society and the benefits it holds to operate in a wider context. Festivals that bring the whole community together and celebrate our lifestyle and history. Having a community environment that promotes family and cultural interaction. I am worried about the rise of the „Cronulla bogan‟. Planning and encouraging multiculturalism and not ignoring tricky issues like this will benefit the people of the Shire. I want my kids and their friends to feel a part of their community and grow up to be healthy, happy responsible citizens. I would be interested in opening up the culture of the Sutherland Shire to other influences and cultures, so it is a less parochial place and more interactive with a larger world. If the community is connected and safe then it will maintain people as a focus of the future of the Shire rather than economics which is often argued as the „be all and end all‟. If community is the centre of things then the Shire will grow in a sustainable way. Increased promotion and opportunity for festivities and events for all age groups. Keep up wine and food tasting events, Keeping Muslims, Islanders, Sudanese and other ethnic criminals out of The Shire Limit impact of ethnic invasion to ensure Aussie character is retained. Local events, e.g. at the libraries or community centres. Love and respect to each other. No more „dog eat dog‟ opportunities, positive and fair directions rather than directions based on financial purposes. Maintain our culture and lifestyle look after young Australian people and families, Maintain Sutherland Shire culture and way of living. Don't allow other cultural influences overtake our current standard. Examples of what we do not want to happen, is like Hurstville in the last 5-10 years. More community involvement through more active and educated community. More entertainment opportunities. More tolerance of other people and cultures. Less insularity! More work towards breaking down racism. It's huge in the Shire and something I am not proud of as a resident. My thoughts are that everyone, native born Australians and the new comers, must have the right to live in harmony and peace, and if that means some of us have to change some of our traditions so be it , The Australian laws and traditions have to be observed by everyone. Organise cleanup or beautification days for the Shire with a barbeque, music and dance afterwards. Organise something special, fun wise like a rudder, sailing or water peddling race on self made floating devices with a special theme for the Shire which would be an annual event somewhere on one of our many waterways or bays. Our top footy and soccer team events would need much more promotional support, tourist love to watch Australian sport. Do you know when „Sharkies‟ are playing again in the Toyota stadium? We need areas where this can be advertised. People feel connected to each other and involved in community life. Libraries and parks are affordable ways of bring people together. People need to feel they are part of the community, be able to participate in community groups such as sporting, hobby or interest groups. Promote much more about the theatres we have in the Shire and organise aboriginal, country dancing or music festivals in community halls. Promoting socially inclusive community, actively bringing people into the community that will educate and enliven us about cultural difference. Promotion of a more sympathetic local view of recently arrived migrants and refugees. A kinder Shire. Sense of community and belonging for all people. Sense of worth and fulfilment.

Strategic Plan Review Supplementary Report 11

Sense of community pride needs to be incubated through an interesting urban environment. Sutherland Shire should focus and encourage its community on becoming a culturally diverse area. The stigma of the Cronulla riots still exists, and will forever mar the area. The acknowledgement and encouragement of diversity will help future generations to reduce that stigma and show a better way forward. Teach locals about respect. Teaching healthy living, respect, and honesty and being responsible for your own actions. That all people are treated equally and abide by the laws of our land. That all people have an opportunity to be part of the community. That we have a safe community of harmony and good attitudes and respect to each other with racism and bullying not tolerated. The last time the Shire stuck up for its valued culture and history, we were called racist after the Cronulla riots. Had to happen, but maybe a better way? The maintenance of the Shire‟s culture and history are important - it is a special place because so many of us built the area to be what it is. Its values have always had an egalitarian flavour, a generosity within the neighbourhood. It is staggering that our reputation is that of bigots and racist. If we go back to core values of the Shire we can get past its current reputation as a land of hairy toed trogs. The Shire is known for its predominantly Anglo culture and intolerance of diversity and difference. It would be great to hear and see a more welcoming attitude to diversity and difference. This would make for a more peaceful and interesting place in which to live and for others to want to visit. The Sutherland Shire should encourage cultural diversity to avoid a repeat of previous events that will forever mar Cronulla. To keep the Aussie feel in the area and not keep changing things to accommodate minority groups. Keeping the community feel of the area. We would not appreciate a mosque in our area. It's very much a bible-belt and any plans for such a development would create much friction. Working with all areas of the community to develop the Shire as an area where a mix of cultures wants to live.

A prosperous Shire A community which promotes a sustainable livelihood. A variety of education options. A vibrant local economy to fuel revenue at all levels. Learning for boosting opportunities, and health and active people promotes overall satisfaction. Access to a range of local education and training options that are flexible and that satisfy the needs of people. Close to work. Communities with learning and economic opportunities. Expansion of tertiary education in the Shire. Skilled workforce employment opportunities. Continued support for the Council libraries. Create a local job site and analyse which jobs within the Council could be made available to over 60 people, perhaps providing training for them to be able to do this jobs. Economic activity with low impact, value added and geared to renewable energy. Education: resources for schools, particularly public schools which are under-resourced compared to private schools. Educational institutions. Employment opportunities for our kids close to home, so they are not travelling long hours on roads or public transport (safety issue). Employment x 2 Strategic Plan Review Supplementary Report 12

Encourage learning and development to promote and increase local jobs etc. Financial stability. Having a choice of working locally. Having the ability to work locally rather than to commute to Sydney. Having the opportunities for learning would increase the chances of a safe community. I think that room should be made available for development into the national park and that the commercial district of Engadine needs to be developed to allow major retailers to move in. I want to see facilities for my kids to learn in now and as they grow. I'd like to see local jobs for their future. I'd like to see local trade/tertiary education. If opportunities for learning and working are not available in our Shire, then this makes it a harder location to live in, which will add to the need of extended travel networks to obtain these essential elements of life. Improved opportunities for local employment. It is important for the Shire to prosper to provide opportunities for young Australian people and families to live and work locally. Job opportunities close to where they live, to stop the long and stressful trip into the city. Jobs, there needs to be a focus to establish more office space at Sutherland for professional organisations, similar to Kirkby House. Use Kogarah as a good example of planned, quality development. Safety rail, excellent. Pedestrian, good. Traffic, congested. Bicycle, poor. Policing, excellent. Keep local jobs available. Keeping our young people and skilled people local in jobs that support our local community. Leadership. Acknowledge that the state government has made it difficult for planning by the Council, however, a master plan to address business centres & allocation of main roads/bike paths is a good start. Some time ago Council defined specific business for each suburb i.e. Cronulla - leisure, Miranda - retail, Sutherland - professional (legal/finance). This seems to have been lost. Learning. Local businesses need to be encouraged to expand and hire local people, currently the slow processing through Sutherland Council of development applications is discouraging expansion of local businesses. I know this because my son is trying his best to expand his local business at the moment and the wheels are barely turning at the Council. Local employment is important. Local jobs and economic opportunities are not as important, as the Sutherland Shire has been known to be the "dormitory" suburbs of Sydney for many years, and you are gaining an increased retired population for whom this issue is also irrelevant. There is an undue emphasis on the „healthy active‟ which presupposes your community as young when it is actually ageing. You are not supporting the cultural, heritage and adult learning opportunities which these healthy seniors, not so active need. The community groups which interacted with the police in the individual police areas have been abandoned, and these were an important investment in keeping communities safe. Your community has eyes and ears which can engender community safety. We are our own best protection in conjunction with the police. Local jobs and economic opportunities x 5 Local jobs and opportunities; remainder are issues for other levels of government. Local jobs can help improve people‟s quality of life by spending less time in traffic. Local jobs such as some more state or federal government departments to be located in the Shire - to give people more opportunities to work in government locally i.e. a regional hub. This will take some of the drain off the road & train network. Currently many Shire people work in the city in government departments. Fisheries are the only local department, other than a few National Parks jobs. But other areas have more regional Strategic Plan Review Supplementary Report 13

government job opportunities. Improve our libraries. Some have been upgraded. It would be great if a few of the smaller ones were expanded & modernised even more to bring them into the 21st Century. Local jobs, not so far to travel - balanced carbon footprint. Local jobs x 2 Look at local Shire residents for jobs, particularly for festivals, give local bands and singers the opportunity and promote them. We have internationally acclaimed singers living here and that should be showcased and acknowledged. Lower rates to encourage small business to grow. Maintaining a healthy attitude to learning and working. More computer classes at low cost for the elderly. More employment opportunities. More local jobs and eco-opportunities = more people have to travel less and financial growth. Should be used to educate our community to keep it clean, environmentally focused and graffiti and vandalism free. More money into the local schools. More opportunities for jobs in the Shire. Opportunities for growth, development, exploration. Opportunities for learning - in particular for families with young children. There needs to be more adequate, accessible childcare/day care/preschool which allow young children/toddlers the opportunity to learn socially and academically within the Shire so that families don't have to look outside the area for these opportunities. Opportunities for learning - schooling, TAFE, universities available within the Shire. Opportunities for learning professional qualifications locally, i.e. RTO or university courses. Opportunities for learning. Opportunities for older people to gain technology skills. Opportunities for ongoing learning, access to healthy lifestyle options like leisure centres that are affordable, jobs available in the local community to avoid long commutes. Opportunities for the local community to work/do business in the Shire (comparable to other major economic areas), therefore avoiding the need to travel long distances. People can afford to study and TAFE isn't privatised by stealth by turning most courses into commercial TAFE Plus courses. People encouraged to work locally and have opportunities to strike a healthy work-life balance People should be able to be locally employed to ensure a healthy work/life/family balance. Please keep the airport, it is a great way to draw tourist into the Shire, should we wake up and promote our area and coastline better. And it is so great for business people and the travelling kind. The aeroplane noise is totally negligible in comparison to cars of hoons in suburban streets or general higher flow street traffic. Promote job growth. Promoting development to attract jobs & business to the area. Provide jobs through increased entertainment and green jobs and aged services. Provide local job opportunities for young families to work and live within the Shire. Put money into education. Put together a plan for a sustainable Sutherland Shire giving locals a bigger choice in terms of working local. Real Shire residents, not business pressure groups just out to make big bucks themselves. Schools to build but not close to residential areas. No further expansion of current existing schools. Skills training and educational training leading straight to jobs in demand within the Shire, for which courses can be held in the evening in schools around the Shire. Strategic Plan Review Supplementary Report 14

Support for higher end businesses. The Shire is just a commuter/ sleeper suburb for all the white collar workers to commute to the city. We should have high order jobs in the Shire (IT, financial, services, medical, research etc.). Support for local learning communities/centres. Support our teachers. Support to our libraries. Support to our local businesses. Support young people in their own businesses with business skills training. That training opportunities and jobs in the local area are encouraged and planned for to cut down on travel and to provide reinvestment into the community. The community college is extremely important in the life of the Shire. The Council has to open its eyes which enormous opportunities there are in the Shire to jump start tourism and create local jobs with it. Especially Captain Cook Drive to Kurnell is one stretch you could make so attractive. From a better cycle way to sand hill beautification to cliff walk promotion including horse riding track, outdoor beer gardens attractive rest oasis within this attractive stretch of nature, if it is kept clean and beautiful. Why not a camping place and boat ramps, whale watching boats and kayak hire etc. Ways to keep older people working longer.

Community wellbeing Access to health/mental health services, Active & Healthy populace particularly as the community ages Active. Banning smoking in public spaces e.g. beaches, parks and outdoor areas would assist. Being healthy and active. Close to leisure activities. Encourage more people to go outside and play, climb a tree, get active - not just join a gym or become a member of the leisure centre. E.g. teddy bears picnic, games day in the park that involve parents and kids (3-legged race, egg & spoon) - good old fashioned free fun. Encouraging people to be responsible for their own health outcomes. Fitness programs more easily accessible to all and affordable. Give more credit and media attention to all the community not for profit groups in the Shire - they are what the Shire relies on and build our community. Having adequate access to recreation facilities and the natural environment. In particular, legal mountain bike trails. Having enough playgrounds/walkways that are kept in good condition to allow for healthy safe lifestyles. Health and wellbeing Health is important for all people within the community. Health, opportunity for exercise, e.g. parks. community groups, aged care. Health. Healthy active people should pay to be so rather than the majority of the rate payers funding their activity venues, the same as gyms do. Healthy active people x 6 Healthy active people; provide opportunities for families to be active e.g. safe bike tracks that link key places. Ban smoking in public places such as beaches and outdoor eating areas. This has been implemented in many other Council areas and I feel it should be a priority in Sutherland Shire where we have so many outdoor areas and eateries that should be smoke free for the public. Healthy lifestyles Healthy, active people (and having infrastructure to support this). High standard health care

Strategic Plan Review Supplementary Report 15

High standard of medical services I think it is important to have healthy and active people - the community should be clean to encourage people to be a part of it. I think the leisure centres and childcare centres could be run a lot better! I think the Leisure centres could be run a LOT better! I want to see facilities for my kids to play in and lead healthy, active lifestyles. Improved hospital services (e.g. recently raced child to emergency only to find there was no parking ANYWHERE at Sutherland Hospital). Improved resources for Sutherland Hospital. Improving the quality and size of parks, children's playgrounds that are fenced, bike tracks, leisure centres etc for children and families to access), It is also paramount that pollution is managed and that there is ample space for natural parkland for leisure and physical activities, as well as community facilities like Menai Indoor Centre. Keeping the community active is important. Leisure/exercise facilities that are affordable Lifestyle Local opportunities for healthy recreational pursuits. Maintain the status quo in this area. More "work for the dole" programs so people are never without something to do. It will take a generation at least to change attitudes, so quick-fix political solutions are no use More family parks become available (i.e. cnr Kingswood/Lantana at Engadine) for social opportunities, organised events at such locales. More health programs for Shire residents. More local, free seminars on health My childhood was great in the Shire; I hope my kids will say the same. People, especially the vulnerable such as young children, people with disability and the aged need to have ready access to the supports that allow them to be included in mainstream activities. Good quality childcare that responds to needs of children with additional needs and parents with disabilities or mental health issues is one way of doing this. Opportunities for safe and accessible networking such as day care for elderly and isolated citizens. Promote more sports to make people active that don't cost an arm and a leg. Providing more community areas to encourage being active. Recreation. Safe recreational areas. Sutherland Shire is a great place to live, having grown here myself and similarly enjoying the opportunities provided to watch my family grow. It's easy to take for granted what is on offer, harder still to get it back when it is gone. Nothing drastic needs to change, That people live in a healthy environment without pollution and opportunities for all ages to exercise. The Shire is the best place I've ever lived in, out of Newcastle, Newtown, St George, France. This is a beautiful, safe place to live. Let's keep it that way. Top people issues are for good health - as in everything from GP's, emergency care and hospital care, plus community care and plenty of aged care facilities. We also need to have better health facilities and the emergency section re-opened at Kareena Hospital though this may be outside Council's scope. The wait in emergency at Sutherland Hospital is often unacceptable when elderly people have to wait 16 hours or so on occasions for attention while they are in pain. Perhaps the Council could advocate the government to bring back Kareena emergency section.

Strategic Plan Review Supplementary Report 16

Considering our people

Ageing Care for our ageing population. Council support for the elderly. Effective, comprehensive inclusion of older people in planning for their needs. Given the ageing population, the need for facilities for retirees and the aged are essential. Leisure/exercise facilities that is affordable, particularly for retirees and the ageing. Lively local activity hubs, that allow for informal meetings. These need to be accessible by local transport and foster a sense of community. Many of the current activities at libraries allow for this. Look after the elderly citizens of the Shire. Look after the elderly, Respect. Looking after the elderly. Lots of varied and active programs for older citizens. Maintaining people's independence in their own home. Reduce isolation of older people. Provide local entertainment for all ages. Respect for each other, their space and their property. More mutual support and less rat- race. The need for caring nursing homes for people with dementia. There needs to be more opportunities for aged residents to get out of their homes and stay active. More community transport options are needed as well as activities for them to attend.

Children and families Better childcare policies. Children should have safe havens where they can enjoy company of each other. These should not cost an arm and a leg which makes them out of reach to many. Children‟s day care centres to be improved by having more centres or additional headcounts. I have had my daughter on the waiting list before she was born and she is now 3 without a spot becoming available. How and why has this occurred? I have a son who has been in a Council day care centre for the last three years, a wife who works locally fulltime (nightshift work) and a spot has never become available. I would think priority exist considering a child in a centre and fulltime working parents. Effective critical Infrastructure. More childcare centres. I have encountered many families including mine, struggling to find practical and available childcare in the Shire. The Shire population is growing with many young families and there is no adequate childcare support. I am a mother with 2 toddlers and know of many young families struggling to find available and practical childcare for 0-5 year olds in the Shire. Many families have been on the waiting list for years and some never getting any care in the Shire. Some have had to move or look outside the Sutherland Shire for childcare. Some have their children in up to 3 different centres making it impractical for young working families. Council needs to review the number of childcare centres it has compared to demand. While it may be too late to help me, I am hoping future generations are looked after so that families continue to reside happily in the Sutherland Shire and use its services. Kids have great schools and preschools. Opportunities for our children from small to teen. Places and sensible activities for our teenagers. Places and activities for children of all ages. Safe places for kids to play

Strategic Plan Review Supplementary Report 17

Young people A safe and culturally appropriate place for young people to congregate. For example, a drop-in cafe at Miranda Fair. Activities and venues for youth, both am and pm. Safe community areas, Facilities to engage young people and not treat them as sub-human (even when they behave that way). Integration of the youth in the plans for management and cleaning up, and conserving the natural spaces, parks, etc. It's particularly important that we as a community keep youth engaged in helpful activities, such as youth programs offered by churches and the like to ensure they are kept away from underage drinking, drugs and crime. Keep young people involved and out of trouble by having lots of free or low cost activities. Tackling issues of alcohol and drug use. Lots of varied and active programs for young citizens. More community for teenager activity. More space for the youth. Need more activities for the young local crowd, especially on the weekends and at night. This will draw more of them off the streets. Opportunities for our children, from small to teen. Opportunities for young people, variety of activities. Places and activities for our teenagers (13 to 18) to socialise and feel safe. Places and sensible activities for our teenagers. Reduce marginalisation of younger people. Provide local entertainment for all ages. Too many youths in the Sutherland Shire have no regard for what a community is and are making the "Shire" an undesirable place to live or even visit. Particularly Miranda, Engadine and Sutherland. This needs fixing, i.e. more security.

People who are vulnerable Inclusive strategies for all age groups. More facilities for people with mental health issues. Planning needs to be for people of all ages. Services for all including those disadvantaged by health, age or at risk of social exclusion. Social opportunities for people with disability information about groups to connect with local people

Other All issues are equally important. All of the above All of the above is extremely important. All of them. Community facilities Community support is important. Continued support to community activity groups Need multifunctional facilities that cater more to community needs and less to historical practice. Quality of lifestyle. Stop the stall holders at community events and festivals selling any toy weapons to children - what is this saying about our values.

Strategic Plan Review Supplementary Report 18

Place

Integrated and complementary travel Access to safe, cheap public transport. Act to discourage creation of private roadways (which in effect are 'Gated Communities') by engaging with property owners to create public access instead. Active planning in transport, for example, traffic congestion along Sutherland railway and facilitate networks efficiently with TAFE and schools. Additional sporting fields are critical for our youth & their healthy & active lifestyle. You can see the fields barely cope with today‟s sporting activities. The Shire should look at buying back some properties to allow some of the grounds to expand where this is possible - or create some new fields where possible. adequate and safe public transport An even better rail system, one that caters for Jannali to Cronulla residents to reduce the time travel on trains for those who commute. As above. When considering future transport and infrastructure options, maintaining the Sutherland Shire "nature" and appeal is very important. It is the most appealing to the area, hence why people chose to live here. Basic things like footpaths to get around. Better access to City by road. Better/more parking available everywhere, but especially at railway station areas. Bicycle paths - riding to work from Caringbah to Sutherland is difficult, also storage at stations & work. Need bike storage as part of new developments. bike paths across Shire Build more open plan two bedroom units with large balconies, a preferred way of living for more and more retiring baby boomers which would then free houses up for the young ones with kids. Build out save and wide cycle ways that parents with kids can go for a leisure bike ride on weekends and people leave the car at home and cycle to work. Why does a cycle way stop at Mangrove Lane and does not continue along the Mangroves and Botany Bay to Captain Cook Bridge? Many people could take the bike to go to work in a safe way even if they work at the airport or in Botany. Bundeena is still lacking in efficient travel infrastructure Bus and train connections and better roads Car pooling programs promoted from the Council. Care should be taken to ensure continued development doesn't totally clog the Shire‟s streets. Travelling east west between Sutherland and Cronulla can take over half an hour now in extended afternoon peak and weekends. Condition of roads and planning for effective road networks e.g. roads that are split but have the same name are confusing - why not rename the split part. Traffic congestion is an issue and proper planning rather than piecemeal road planning is necessary. Critical transport infrastructure linking buses, trains etc is important for the future of the Shire. Cycleways Development of cycleways Drastic improvements in transport networks that actually are integrated and complement one another. easy walkways/ cycle ways Effective critical infrastructure and integrated travel networks: we repeatedly asked for a rail link from Sutherland to Liverpool, but when Woronora Bridge was built, there was no provision for a rail link. Buses ramble all over the countryside and take hours to get to Sutherland, and are not good "people movers" like trains. Effective critical infrastructure to me means roads that aren't congested as Taren Pt Rd is too often, or Gannons Rd/Kingsway intersection. Some of these things can't be Strategic Plan Review Supplementary Report 19

alleviated by Council but would encourage local government to push for F6, to harass state government for double lane rail underpass on Gannons Rd. More parking in Cronulla CBD. Effective critical infrastructure travel networks. Effective public transport is critical and much needs to be done to provide it and encourage people to use it. Our roads are becoming more congested constantly and through managing population and public transport this needs to be dealt with. Effective transport x 2. Efficient public transport; Ensure the public transport system continues as it is and grows with the increase in population. Establish more transport hubs/inter-connections between modes. Every new build road to have a separate cycle way. F6 freeway. F6 freeway? Public transport, cycleway along train line. F6 has to be built as soon as possible. Footpaths and roads. Footpaths are a major infrastructure issue that has been ignored for years. If we want to get aged people out and walking, they need to be able to do this safely. Footpaths that are accessible for older people. Footpaths, footpaths and more footpaths! Bus and train interchanges that actually work. For people to have the opportunity to connect there needs to be good public transport, better than what is available now. Good bus and train timetables that provide safe travel for all. Good roads, effective communication infrastructure. Good transport system. Growing road congestion and parking are important issues, improved infrastructure is required. Have housing for history and culture within reach; e.g. Botany Bay Historical Society is too far away from train lines. Have improved integrated travel so we spend more quality time with our families. Having better integrated travel networks would enable us the option to take different transportation, which would improve the traffic and parking struggle. I wish we had more frequent bus options that we could rely on. Having our local area accessible. Having sufficient modern infrastructure for our Shire. Hazelhurst is fantastic....please make sure it can continue to be an outstanding local regional gallery. Higher density housing around parks, shopping centres & transport routes. I DO wish that people would GARAGE their vehicles rather than park them on the roadway, diminishing the space available for the moving cars!! I think it would be best if there were efficient and affordable ways that people could travel around and out of the Shire. I would hate to see an F6 tunnel go under these important natural assets which I'm sure would have negative impacts. I would like to get from one side of the Shire to the other in peak hour in a reasonable amount of time. With the high rise developments, our roads are totally blocked at peak hour. Look at the traffic flow and lobby state government for under and over passes etc. I would like to see more viable shared pedestrian footpath/ cycle ways to get from local shopping centres etc. The roads are so choked that using them to commute on a bike is unsafe and frustrating for car drivers. Improved public transport - the only way the F6 extension should be considered is below ground (tunnel), otherwise it will cut the Shire in two if it is above ground, & will be a disaster for the Shire forever. Strategic Plan Review Supplementary Report 20

Improved transport systems. Improved transport/roads - less speed bumps and traffic snarls, more parking in key areas. Local hubs should be developed so people can work, shop & play locally. Encourage businesses who offer products and services equivalent in standard to those found in other parts of Sydney and that cater to a wide range of socio economic groups (the Shire is expensive!). Improving availability of walkways, cycleways. Improving connections the Shire has with other areas. In designing new public places and residential developments please consider amenity. In the shorter and long term I'd like to see safe cycleways for children who can ride but are still too young and not competent enough to ride on roads and cycle paths with cars driving past them. Increase foreshore pedestrian and bike riding opportunities. Increased traffic within the Shire is of great importance. One road in and out of Cronulla and South Cronulla is a significant concern. With summer approaching and the influx of residence and visitors to the area it is all but impossible to make your way into and out of Cronulla. Short of supplying all residents with a helicopter service something needs to be done before we introduce another 1100 homes into this "Lively Local Activity Hub". Infrastructure - roads need effective planning for increased population i.e. Caringbah centre made into a mall similar to Boyle St Sutherland. Needs one main road say Kingsway diverted with President Ave as a through road. School zones need to be responsible, not a blanket approach where main roads apply, each school should be assessed individually i.e. Kirrawee High School. Underpasses & underground freeways may assist but increased surface roads will divide & destroy the Shire. Infrastructure is integrated travel networks. Travel networks need to consider the needs of individuals, i.e. if developing cycleways to increase public transport, shower and change facilities are needed at both ends of a person‟s travel route. Continued removal of major traffic bottlenecks for vehicles entering and leaving the Shire in order to get to, and return from work. Infrastructure needs to be progressing with the pace that society sets. If more schools, sports grounds, homes for elderly, light industrial or business premises are required than Council needs to be in touch with community to meet the demands, still keeping our cultural history intact. Good Luck! Infrastructure that suits everybody‟s needs - young to old. Integrated and affordable transport options. Integrated travel x 2. Integrated travel networks - hugely important. For too long 'the Shire' has lagged behind. Integrated travel networks. It is particularly important for older residents to be within walking distance to transport/shopping. It should place travel networks at the centre of its planning, ensuring the majority of people are within walking distance of trains and buses. Keep building and landscaping parks and areas where as residents and visitors we can relax and enjoy. Keep parkways walkways cycleways available to people. Less cars - encourage people to walk and ride. Less road dependency and more options for getting around. Less transport disruptions. Lobby for light rail on the F6. Local activity hubs are a great idea, especially those that would encourage inter- generational mixing. More and faster trains to city. More intensive development around centres so they are more interesting places. More parking especially around Sutherland. Strategic Plan Review Supplementary Report 21

More public transport - light rail to link Shire with Darks Forest, heavy rail to link with West and South West Sydney. More public transport within the Shire (esp. the western part of the Shire). More trains stopping at Como station during peak. More commuter parking. More transport option. Movement of commuters / travellers efficiently and safely through the local community - mixture of roads and public transport options should be available. Much needs to happen with Captain Cook's Landing Place at Kurnell - it is a national disgrace to see it completely ignored, and the Council is responsible to see this restored, expanded and celebrated, especially given your logo. Never allow the extension of the highway; it will ruin many lovely places in the area. Transport issues can be solved other ways, (keeping shops close to homes for example - once everything is owned by Coles and Woolies, it may be hard to walk down the corner for bread - Council should be helping small centres as it benefits the community. No F6 motorway! Parking is a huge problem.... in shopping areas, and railway stations. Engadine station is impossible to park near so I am forced to always use my car instead of public transport. Even a $5 a day fee for a nearby parking area would be acceptable to me. How everyday workers who have to use trains cope is a wonder. PARKING is a major issue in the Shire, particularly at Cronulla and it is ridiculous that increased development is allowed yet no additional parking has been provided or even planned for to my knowledge. The situation is truly out of control particularly on weekends. I'm a Cronulla resident and never move my car to go out on weekends as I know I will not find another one anywhere. Place issues that are important are to maintain our current infrastructure. Planning should focus on having the majority of people within walking distance of a train or bus station, and actively encourage use of these above individual vehicle use. Planning that takes into account traffic and traffic management. Please get someone to focus on traffic management, around main streets, traffic congestion caused by school drop off (St Patricks for example) and unnecessary school speed zones like Gymea school Princes Hwy (is it necessary??) fence in the middle of the hwy prevents kids walking across there anyway. But the traffic it causes is ridiculous. And the overpass at Sutherland station should have lights to stop people just wandering across when they feel like it. Population increase is inevitable within Australia, NSW, and Sydney and of course, Sutherland Shire. Strategic planning is essential in preparing for this eventuality. In my opinion, transport infrastructure is the critical issue that will hinder or assist the development of sustainable and enjoyable city/suburban living in the near to long term future. Projected increases in residential development (approx 10,000 dwellings) will result in a comparable, if not greater increase in vehicle traffic (both private and commercial). The road network is already approaching saturation point, especially evident at choke points such as Princes Hwy Kirrawee, Taren Point Rd Caringbah and others. It is imperative that the necessary measures are taken to plan for this eventuality. Provide better infrastructure in terms of public transport. Provide more walking tracks when opportunities arise, e.g. from Tathra Pl Gymea Bay along existing track along Dents Creek to Huskisson St, then along proposed extension of Huskisson St (R.O.W. 61 Arcadia Ave to 107 Arcadia), dropping onto the route of the sewer mains below the remainder of Arcadia Ave to finish at the waterfront end of Molong Rd road reserve. Walkers could then return to Tathra Place via the recently constructed timber stairs on Molong Rd road reserve, or alternatively proceed on through the Marina Cres. Reserve and associated reserves. This would be a counterpart to the much valued Coonong Creek walk and would allow the expansion of Bushcare Group community engagement etc.

Strategic Plan Review Supplementary Report 22

Providing more medium rise housing in the area - to cater for changing lifestyles & affordability of housing 3 storey height limits for flats is ridiculous - we could easily accommodate 5-8 storeys. Public transport is valuable, the trains are the ones I use the most. Buses are worse than useless for me, since the services are so infrequent and bus stops inconveniently situated (probably due to lack of custom). I've lived and worked in the Eastern Suburbs and there, the buses are much more successful. Public transport x 2. Reliable and safe public transport and secure and safe public areas. Road and rail transport functions efficiently. Road quality, in and out of Shire. Safe and accessible travel options so future generations can stay healthy and protect the environment. Safe bike paths. Safe walking track areas. Shire's a bottle neck - weekends as bad as peak hour. Something needs to be done about traffic flow on President Ave/Kareena Road during school and peak periods. Stronger higher speed trains with wider access doors for speedier people exchange for reducing travel time into the city. Reduce fares and shorter intervals between trains. That good public transport infrastructure is in place. The Council should get away from the politically correct BULL*** and get on with running the Shire with the needs of the people in mind i.e. better roads & public transport facilities. The F6 extension needs to happen - bite the bullet and liaise with the state government to get on with it. The F6 should be championed to reduce the through traffic (south coast) that clogs up the Shire roads. The Shire is a beautiful place to live; however, the choking roads are making access in and out of the Shire a major problem during peak periods. One serious accident has the capacity to freeze movement totally. There is a need for more careful planning in road infrastructure and local public transport facilities need improvement. The three first sections are the most important to me. Infrastructure is what helps development (economy, sustainability, modernity)….. There is also a dire shortage of medium density villa style housing. There needs to be more low cost aged housing, it seems more often than not that the ideal areas for these (such as Karimbla Road Miranda - close to transport/shops/medical etc) are turned over to parkland, whereas there is a huge open space in Woonah Road Miranda that is never used by anyone - this should have been the park. Traffic congestion in the Shire is ridiculous. It is great to see walkways and cycle ways around. Traffic control- with increased housing demands there is also increase demands on roads- What‟s the solution??- F3 extension?? Traffic within the Shire is becoming unmanageable - access to good, reliable, regular and safe public transport is essential. Improved traffic management is also a must - the Shire should not come to a standstill when there is one major accident. Other access routes should be available. Too many roads are closed off to public access. Review of closed roads should be a priority. Transport. Transport - easy accessible public transport options. Transport networks, particularly public transport will have to play a significant role in our low-carbon future. Travel more buses available for travel around the Shire. Travel Infrastructure. Strategic Plan Review Supplementary Report 23

Travel network to allow travel and communication with other parts of the area. Travel networks. Travel Networks- effective and safe public transport. Housing Options- so traditional Shire residents and the Shire's young people, aren't priced out of living where they've grown up. University campus, really integrated travel, more and better and cheaper bus services; rubbish management (parks are fully of rubbish). Upgrade or replacement of Sutherland Entertainment Centre and other arts facilities Value needs to be placed on historic and cultural features. Walkways, cycleways, to encourage people to lead healthy, active lives. These should take priority above and beyond cars and vehicles. Walkways, cycleways, bush tracks and green open areas should be a focus to encourage people to lead healthy, active lives. These should take priority above and beyond cars and vehicles. Walkways, cycleways, bush tracks and green open spaces should be abundant. These should be prized above local jobs and economic opportunities. Want to live in the Shire (less trouble makers in the Shire) but I work in the City (have to be on the train for too long). We do need to have integrated travel networks - a hub-style arrangement that would see buses/trains/taxis gathered together into a local hub. We need to appreciate and continue to allow & expand areas which can be used for safe walkways / bike ways which allow for healthy and sustainable lives and encourage active play/exercise.

Housing our people A variety of housing options serviced by integrated and affordable transport options are really important issues in my view. Ability for people to downsize to suitable housing in the area they traditionally lived Accommodation for the elderly, good medical and hospital care, effective and affordable community transport facilities. Affordable home ownership for people earning under $50.000 per year. An acceptance of alternative housing designs and materials - example REVERSE brick veneer. Affordable Housing x 3. Affordable housing for all levels of income. Affordable housing for different demographics. Affordable housing for families, including 3&4 bedroom units and townhouses with outdoor living areas, and including enough parking onsite so the streets don't become congested with people trying to find parking close to home. Affordable housing for future generations. Affordable medium density housing - for first home buyers and the elderly. Available housing options for elderly parents who may not require health care / hospital care but need to downsize and live independently still. Controlling the footprint of single dwellings to prevent the development of „McMansions‟ with large building footprint and small setbacks but only one family occupying them. Council can offer in the future now my friends can't afford to live in the Shire. Creating affordable housing that fits in with our local area. Making certain we keep the village feel at Kareela, no multi storey car park at the shopping centre. Creating affordable housing options without compromising on amenity. Effective housing options. Having lived and raised my family in the Shire, I worked toward and believed in a Shire that would be fit for my grandchildren and their children to call home. The fact this financially is no longer an option saddens me. Housing issues are important-both for ageing population (i.e. granny flat development) and affordability. Strategic Plan Review Supplementary Report 24

Housing. Housing - Quality accommodation with two car spaces/dwelling, parking generally poor. Housing affordability and availability is most important. People will not be able to break into the housing market with things they way they are, making the Shire completely unaffordable for young people. This will lead to an aging population being the majority of people residing in the area. Housing in particular, providing better more affordable housing options especially for families, first home buyers. Housing is important because if it‟s done poorly the next generation won't be able to afford to live in the area. Housing is important but it needs to provide a quality living environment. All housing should have appropriate and sufficient infrastructure to support it e.g. transport, parks and recreation facilities, sufficient parking for residents and visitors. Housing option; our children have to live somewhere why where they were born and not in somebody else‟s backyard. Housing options x 4. Housing options are critically important. With increased population and housing density we are reducing the option for younger people with families and older people to live in a free standing home. Housing options for elderly people. Housing options need to be quality ones with more single storey villas for the aging population and more natural heating by having north facing living areas for winter. Housing options: Too often decisions are made predominately based on economics. This is not the only way to measure what should be done. Housing options: We need to discuss how many more people can be accommodated in the Shire without seriously diminishing the quality of life for Shire residents. Housing Options. Housing the disabled with more respite homes as well as housing for disadvantaged people. Improving affordable housing options and options of homeless youths. Keep the Australian own your own home dream alive in the Shire for young Australians. Limit number of units so families can buy houses and live with plenty of space. Lots more housing, particularly granny flats for families to stay together. Low housing cost options. Making sure that there is a diversity of housing options available, and that each of these options is affordable. For example, single dwellings should not be the province of a rich few, but available for all income levels. More housing options should be available for ageing population in their local areas - not just retirement villages but strata development self care over 55 developments. More old age housing is desperately needed. Please realise that many baby boomers are age discriminated and can't find work. Many think they will have enough to keep on living in the Shire. They will not and in a couple of years you will have many which will have to live in tents or caves in the national park, because when you get $500 pension and you pay $ 400 rent in the Shire, you are stuffed. Please listen early and hear them coming. They need all cheaper but not disgraceful homes and for that, we need a responsible leadership. Please plan homes where you would want you to live or you would send your parents in too, should they have had bad luck with their super or investments. Provide housing for the ageing population. Solutions for youth homelessness, affordable housing for first home buyers.

Strategic Plan Review Supplementary Report 25

Development in the Shire Continuing to keep our beautiful environment free from too much development. Control of developers. Avoidance of our Shire being a densely populated area. Determining the balance between development and conservation. High density population stressing the local environment. Housing is important because if it‟s done poorly the environment could suffer if building works and long term impacts are neglected. Housing options are being driven by the State. Council should have control of this so we can shape our own future. Housing options without overdevelopment. I would rather pay higher rates than see massive housing developments as planned for Heathcote road areas and down to the needles, we moved to the Shire for nature and quality of life and a bush area to raise our children. Being in the Shire for 15 years all I have seen is massive developments of future ghettos, it‟s getting like Rockdale with entire blocks dedicated to high density living in apartment blocks and town housing. Limit the development of housing industry where it impinges on green space. Limitations on the density of development and planning to limit development to the availability of open space and extant transport resources i.e. not being forced to endure a State plan of ever increasing numbers. Limiting high- and medium-density dwellings. Limits on housing density in some areas and height limits. My biggest concern is increased population and development that is choking our roads- we can't allow the Shire to become a parking lot like the rest of Sydney. We need to maintain our outer suburban lifestyle and encourage sustainability in all areas of the Shire. No development in areas of natural beauty. Our infrastructure cannot afford any more development / housing etc. Over development and loss of natural surrounds. Overdevelopment. Over-populating the area will cause damage to the environment and social problems including violence. Please put a stop to the number of units being approved - the infrastructure cannot sustain this amount of people and the overdevelopment is not needed. Protecting trees / vegetation throughout development. Slow down development west of Sutherland. We live here because of the environment and surrounds. Stop over development, stop high rise development. Sutherland Shire should aim to have a lower than average population density compared to the other Sydney Shires, and should limit large apartment blocks and the height of apartment blocks. Sutherland Shire should focus on ensuring that its population density does not place it above the average in Sydney Shires. It should limit apartment blocks and the height of such blocks, and encourage lively local Activity Hubs that service the existing population. That Sutherland doesn't become overdeveloped like the Gold Coast and has people living in communities (not isolated as they can be in some unit blocks). To maintain the healthy perspective of life that most Shire residents enjoy, natural facilities should be protected/enhanced, particularly with respect to planning (i.e. impact of Helensburgh development on Hacking River). Too many new units are being built in the Sutherland Shire and the infrastructure does not cope. Sutherland Station and the overpass need a complete modernisation (as does Sutherland in general). Stop building high rise unit blocks. We do not need further infrastructure, what we need is less development. The travel network is sufficient unless Council allows developers to keep expanding the Shire. Housing options the same as above, stop development. Strategic Plan Review Supplementary Report 26

We Do NOT want overcrowding in the Shire as well. No more high rise dwellings. We don‟t want Sutherland to end up like Hurstville. We need to not become overpopulated to retain our quality of life.

Infrastructure Adequate funding for maintenance of existing infrastructure. Council trying but most people seem unaware of effect of ageing infrastructure on services. Critical infrastructure. Effective Critical Infrastructure to assist with roads and parking. Effective critical infrastructure x 4 Effective critical infrastructure (particularly roads), integrated travel networks (improving ease of public transport), housing options. Effective critical infrastructure including NBN connections. Effective Critical Infrastructure...should be looked at and questions asked of all Shire residents to have their say...before you carry out silly work projects eg 1: why spend hundreds of thousands of dollars to build a bike way from the Wonnie River to where ...when NO one uses it and no ever will ...what a waste of my money....the bike rides, ride from Cronulla to Kurnell and from Sutherland to Stanwell tops ...did anyone count the number of bikes in this area prior? I would say Not...and the laws state that you must under the age of 12 to ride a bike on a public footway..... eg2; why reduce the road way width in ENGADINE ( Princess Hwy) by some 2m now a bus and a car can only squeeze thru and if someone opens a car door then everything comes to a stop! Try driving a bus and a truck thru at the same time ...you have to pull your mirrors in to get past. This a accident waiting to happen ... Effective Critical Infrastructure. Effective Critical Infrastructure. Housing and services need to be offered to everyone. Improve local infrastructure based on the growing population. Infrastructure. Infrastructure should be built, upgraded and /or maintained to allow efficient use by all community members. Infrastructure that works. Infrastructure to manage the current situation and the forecast for the future. Infrastructure to support the increase in population. Infrastructure that works! Integrated travel networks also are important to ensure that the people can move around Sydney and contribute economically, socially and culturally. It will be interesting to witness the benefits and therefore justification of the recently imposed infrastructure levee. Matching infrastructure to the needs of the local population. Public toilets that are accessible for older people. More and better and cleaner public toilettes in public spaces Put money into infrastructure. This needs to be prioritised - road maintenance, building maintenance, new buildings and public transport investment. It can't keep going on the back burner due to short sighted decision making influenced by Councillors‟ re-election terms and lack of strategic vision. Major money needs to be spent to ensure infrastructure is maintained and new critical infrastructure is implemented so that expensive repair costs (i.e. seawall reconstruction) aren't experienced. Yes smaller activities may need to be sacrificed in the short term but that is the strategic decision making challenge - the community will appreciate it in the long run. To adequately provide infrastructure and services to residents required by the growing population. Strategic Plan Review Supplementary Report 27

Upgrade old infrastructure. We need to maintain existing infrastructure and stop building new stuff we can't afford to upkeep - e.g. Engadine community centre.

Public places and local community hubs A connected and safe community comes from an interesting urban landscape. The others follow. Activity hubs x 2. Activity hubs - I think we need exercise equipment along beach areas like in Qld. Activity hubs important for ALL age groups. Better local activity hubs - recently Caringbah and Sutherland shopping centres have become less attractive places to visit, less appealing shops. Feel that local hubs are suffering from the omnipresent Miranda Westfield - which I avoid due to lack of parking. Need better promotion of local culture and history - make the Shire more attractive to tourists. Better use of public space, encourage more people to use parks for leisure, including dog parks. Community centre for Kirrawee? Kirrawee has nothing going for it. Nowhere for people to meet, to be active. Cultural & community hubs in addition to other outcomes. Creating a real sense of community-parks, events that gather people together. Development (especially housing) is moderated so that the demands on the local environment are not placed under more pressure than at present whilst still allowing for growth in the Shire. Each suburb has suitably tenanted commercial hub that provides for 'sense of community', 'one-stop-shop' type of arrangement to support as such. Effective and critical infrastructure. Encourage lively local activity hubs that service the existing population. Ensuring public places have a good balance of both human construct and natural elements. Groovy shopping centres for teenagers. Having upgraded local activity hubs like Cronulla Library. I support suitable development. This includes the Kirrawee brick pits and the Sharks development. People have to live somewhere, and there are so many communities who don't want units in their back yard. Well, people have to live somewhere, or buy their first property, and so units should be spread across the Shire. There are hardly any units in some suburbs (Loftus, Kirrawee etc.), and everybody should share. The Kirrawee development should go ahead. I live in Sutherland and have to go to Menai, Engadine or Caringbah for a decent shop. Kirrawee can service the Sutherland area. I think if local hubs such as Gymea can be fostered along it will help keep the Shire interesting. I think we need a variety of housing to accommodate different types of household structures and people's changing needs. Increase the Caringbah hospital hub to provide increase infrastructure. Less traffic based centres. Lively hubs come from flexibility in application of land use controls. To discourage restaurants, cafes, late night trading etc on the basis of car parking or potential social issues defies logic. Lively Local Activity Hubs. Lively Local Activity Hubs particularly catering for families are required. Lively local Activity Hubs should be a focus, built to service the existing population. Lively local Activity Hubs to be far removed from Residential Areas.

Strategic Plan Review Supplementary Report 28

Lively local hubs - yes preserve our strip shops so that Miranda fair and eventually Kirrawee brick pit don't take over the character of the Shire where you can have small business - the butcher the baker, the doctor etc. Local hubs to promote small businesses. This includes less red tape to avoid unnecessary burden. Local shopping centres provide good range of products and services to meet majority of needs. Maintaining and redeveloping shopping areas in Sutherland, Kirrawee, Gymea, Caringbah and Cronulla. Office blocks to accommodate tertiary workers and new start up companies. Outdoor entertainment venues. Parking availability for local hubs. The "village" atmospheres of Kirrawee, Gymea and Jannali are lovely, much better than malls and huge shopping centres. The southern suburbs would rate as one of the worst in Sydney for travelling arrangements. No fore-thought in future planning to cater for the population explosion. Trains are overcrowded and you can't park at least 1/2 kilometre near major stations. No more housing until a solution is introduced. Open the Northern Access Road! Tidy up Kirrawee shopping centre-replace the broken fairy lights-remove graffiti-more parking for train travellers. How about fixing the footpath properly in Flora Street instead of the patch job that Council did recently-try and push a walker along it and see how far you can get. How about a crossing across Flora Street to get to the shops? The corner of Oak Road and Flora is too dangerous. Viable shopping centres - not internal Westfield. We need spaces that people can meet, play and work in which are safe, appropriate for a variety of ages/different groups and uses.

Places to recreate Bush tracks and green open areas should be a focus. Equal access and opportunity to be active (equal use of ovals/fields). Healthy Active People- opportunities to pursue sport/recreation above and beyond sporting fields, e.g., cycling, running, walking facilities in suburbia and the bush. Improve support to sporting clubs. Improving availability of parks. Increased public transport travel, without increased in major arterial roads, such as the F6, which would only increase traffic, divide the Shire & cost residents, time, money. It‟s great that so many people play sport but the fields are in a horrific state that will lead to injuries, it also seems a shame that the fields have to close so often due to weather yet a fee is charged as though they are used for the whole season. Are there other locations that sporting fields could be sited as a shared use i.e. school grounds or parks to take pressure off some of the existing fields. Look after the soccer fields!!! Look at what sort of equipment you are placing in local parks - get back to nature and change your designers - our children don't need weird and huge climbing frames - they need grass, plants, rocks and natural play spaces - listen to experts in the nature playground field. There are people leading the way at The Point Preschool in Oyster Bay - connect with them and acknowledge their expertise. Maintenance of parks, ovals and beaches and ease of access to all - both physically and economically. Rather than a user pays the community pays to spread the cost. The Shire does this pretty well, don't change it. More cultural activity opportunities. More parks and no more shopping centres think of the young. More skate parks.

Strategic Plan Review Supplementary Report 29

More sport interactive parks in the Shire like bike tracks and along the tracks equipment for people to do push ups sit ups etc. Open space living. Preservation of all natural areas, but building infrastructure and facilities that lets people enjoy those areas, not just preservation for preservations sake. Range of open, natural and diverse environments within walking distance for families to gather, explore and enjoy. Small localised, easily accessible community focused hubs, shopping and services will assist as we age, and as we consider transport options in the future. Some wild places left like that. Foreshore access- long walks along the foreshores, instead of selfish private ownership. Sports fields for healthy active people. Take care of the parks. That we can maintain our parks, people need free space to enjoy their leisure. The care and maintenance of places like Camellia Gardens. The Leisure Centres and their programs are of a high standard and are an asset to the Shire. Why does the admin staff at Sutherland Leisure Centre behave in an often unwelcoming and unpleasant manner?? The open lifestyle and easy access to nature (beaches, national park, and waterways) are the envy of the rest of Sydney and should be preserved. The Shire needs more usable open space. There are some wonderful Council initiatives in the Shire - Sutherland pool and recreation centre, Camellia Gardens, for some examples. Keep up the good work. There seems to be a number of clubs/activities available, needs to keep the current level of open space & playing fields not just parklands - kids need to kick balls etc not sit & look. Varied recreational facilities.

Celebrating local culture A recognition of indigenous history. Acknowledgement of traditional owners & reconciliation with Aboriginal peoples Australian culture, lifestyle and history are of high importance to me, my family, friends and colleagues. Captain Cooks landing area and its centre is great but are there any signs leading to it from our freeways. Celebration and dissemination of aboriginal and European history. Culture and history. Education to our children about Shire history and culture, a museum or place to find out more. Funds spent in areas most used e.g. Cronulla for recreation historic premises or areas preserved. Funds spent in areas most used e.g. historic premises or areas preserved. How about placing some Australian flags around the Shire - make people proud to be Australian. Keep our cultural history intact. Kurnell is also a very important place in our history and must be cared for and restored. The fact it has become an industrial dump is a disgrace. It should be recognised as Captain Cook's landing place but also the Aboriginal Community should be engage in a process of reconciliation so that we can look and honour what it means to them. Kurnell to be recognized and respected for the cultural gem that it is and to stop being used as a toxic dumping ground. Kurnell: It is the most historical place in the Shire so why not make it a place to visit to take overseas visitors to.

Strategic Plan Review Supplementary Report 30

Look at Kurnell - it really needs an overall so it reflects our shared history with the Dharawal. Love the history of the Shire. Keep the tram museum open and local history tours/ talks going. Meaningful investment in the cultural life of residents. Not much in Sutherland Shire which showcases history, apart from the dismal bits at the original Captain Cook landing site and, of course, the library. It would be good to know where we can take visitors to see an overview of the Shire as it's come to be, not just a bit here and a bit there... Now culture and history is on and part of our doorstep but I don't think Shire residents appreciate or value it enough. Places relevant to the local community-community parks & facilities. Please respect Kurnell for the community asset that it is and treat it as such in Council‟s future planning. Preserving and respecting our local history. Protecting man made heritage. Protecting natural heritage. Protection of significant heritage. Remembering cultural history and getting it right. Respecting that this Shire was built through the toil of those who came here with Governor Phillip and encouraging this historical knowledge to be taught to those who reside here, to encourage pride in The Shire's heritage. Support to historical and aboriginal groups. The history of the Shire needs to be valued and promoted. There are some wonderful Council initiatives in the Shire – Hazlehurst. Upgrading Kurnell to really show off our heritage. Valued culture and history- we have some beautiful Aboriginal site and Dharawal history that demands our protection, and the significance of our area in post 1770 history will always be a valuable asset. Valued Culture and History x 4. Valued culture and history. Council has abandoned its Cultural Planning emphasis, disbanded its Heritage Festival, Parc Menai Festival, Australia Day and various other committees which were the ones which valued culture and history. Our society is ageing and seniors value these aspects of our lifestyle as it constitutes their entertainment and active participation. Citizens who care have had to carry on these activities with limited Council support. We need to make sure that no one forgets our history or our:"AUSTRALIAN WAY' We value our culture & history. Why is there not a little zoo with the basic Australian animals?

Strategic Plan Review Supplementary Report 31

Nature

Preservation of natural areas A greener environment. Access to parkland and bushland. Access to parks. Cessation of 4WD activities on the Kurnell Peninsula. Clean environment. Conservation of all our natural resources including waterways and parks. Maintaining existing bushland. Opening/improving access to waterways. Conservation of existing nature tracts and reserves, effective housing approvals and planning, support of volunteer groups such as Bushcare. Conservation of natural resources x 4. Conservation of Natural Resources is too ambiguous to even attempt. conservation, cleanliness of waterways, encouragement of native gardening Conservation, conservation. Disaster Management. Conservation, education, activities that involve the community in preservation of natural resources and so on. Conservation, sustainability and regeneration need to be at the forefront of any planning due to the mutual benefits of a functioning environment for both human and natural endeavours. Conserve natural resources - but don't stop people from sensitively developing their properties. Conserving our natural environment. Conserving the Royal NP and beaches. Continued easy access for the public to the fantastic natural features of the Shire. Don't close off the sand dunes! Dune Regeneration. Ensure local nature, wetlands etc are not exploited in anyway. Flora etc. - Bring back the ability to camp in the 'Park' adjacent to the water. Controlled sites yes but a total ban does let the current generation enjoy the natural wonders which is what we were able to do many years ago. Controlling the numbers of moored craft on one buoy & their effluent at places like SW Arm & Jibbon. For Kurnell to stop being used as a toxic dumping ground. Funding to Royal National Park, support to collaborative partnerships, greening the suburbs. Listen to Les Bursill and make a collaborative partnership with the Royal National Park to preserve the Dharawal whale engravings at Jibbon. This will soon be lost if nothing is done. I was born & raised in the Shire, it angers me to see what it has become…..sand hills gone, and I could go on. If one drives Sir Joseph Banks Drive to the coastal cliff walk leading to the Botany National Park in Kurnell, one could think the responsible people in the Shire have rocks in their heads. The road is disgusting with its speed pumps, rubbish and graffiti on the signs. Then on walk to this unique rock plates, there are soil and rock dumps, unsightly concrete lumps and chimneys, rusted steel constructions, engine blocks and car axles. In Europe they would have a 4 line boulevard to a place like this with a mine golf course and a nice little outdoor cafe, where you can enjoy a marvellous view. Anybody dumping anything into the mangrove or Botany Bay should be fined severely. Species which once where in abundance in Botany at Captain Cook‟s times should be reintroduces and water quality tests done regularly and the results published in the Leader every month. Stop sand mining and recreate as much as you can from the sand hills again. Stop industrialization of this area and clean up the rubbish dump hill, create a beautiful observation hill out of it with some mountain bike tracks and activity areas like

Strategic Plan Review Supplementary Report 32

rock climbing walls, and water slides or grass skiing areas. Make sure there is a high speed action plan, if one of the Caltex ships has a mayor accidental spill. Please do everything in your power to stop graffiti; police graffiti night patrols are an option, with at least doubling the fines for offenders. If we value the beauty and nature of the Shire then only good things will come from it. Not only do we preserve nature but are so much more in keeping with the Shire way of life to live among trees and enjoy clean waterways. Business will boom and jobs will flourish if we protect what is unique to the Shire. In a so called green environment, this Council seems to be dedicating its self to the rape of bushland. Increased funding and resources for NPWS to manage the two 'icon' reserves, namely Towra Point Nature Reserve and Botany Bay National Park. Increased protection of national parks and marine parks - these have the potential to be real tourist attractions. Keep nature 'healthy', stop destroying natural resources and heritage (sand dunes is an example). Keep planting up and saving our green areas please. Keep the Sutherland Shire clean, encourage natural plantation and growth. Keeping it well balanced in maintaining are beautiful "green, leafy areas". Look after national parks and waterways to ensure it last for future generations. Maintaining access to natural areas and managing impact of this access to native flora and fauna - again a balance is required. Preservation of existing natural habitat and areas. Making sure we keep what we have, we look after it that as a community we care and feel proud about what we have. More access to the National park for mountain bike riding and walking. National Parks. Natural resources are constantly being depleted (e.g. sand hills) Need to preserve what is currently available and manage these effectively - e.g. bushland areas, waterways etc. Our environment could be the envy of any other large city if we preserve it. It promotes the value of the area. Our environment is of prime importance. We are getting this reasonably right. Our natural assets in the Shire should be protected at all costs. Planning for the future and maintaining the environment. Preservation of flora and fauna. Maintain the leafy atmosphere of the Shire Preserve all current natural fauna, flora and habitats. Preserve the sand dune area at Kurnell. Cessation of sandmining and protection of all remaining dunes. Rezoning most of the land to ensure environmental protection. Review of the Kurnell Peninsula's statutory Regional Environmental Plan Establishment of an independent strategic plan/management plan for the Kurnell Peninsula. Preservation of natural lands and nature. Promote the area to people outside the Shire. National parks are critical for bushwalkers and bike riders. This should be pro-actively used to promote the area. Promotion and encouragement of all weed eradication efforts across the entire Kurnell Peninsula - from private landholders to volunteer groups. Protect and preserve the natural environment. Protect bushland. Protect, grow & nurture. Protecting environment. Public transport to "lively local activity hubs" should be free (or refunded on entry with a cash-back scheme) if we really want people to use them. For example, people rowing at Audley should have their park entry fee refunded; OK, so they get free entry to the park and some may go rowing just for that, but if we want them to be healthy and active does

Strategic Plan Review Supplementary Report 33

it really matter if their motivation is just to save a bit of money? Come to that why aren't parks free? Responsible use of national parks - it cannot all be turned over to "wilderness", but should be able to be enjoyed by all citizens. We need to get rid of all the deer in National Park - they are a feral, destructive force and have no place here. It's too late to save the sand dunes - they were a distinctive national landmark and have been allowed to be raped and destroyed, their like never to be seen here again - what a disgrace. Retain all the existing bushland. Retention of trees and native bushland disaster and safety info readily available effective monitoring of polluters. Royal National Park and Port Hacking River must be managed to ensure they remain in pristine condition for present and future generations. Stop sandmining. Sutherland Shire would do well to promote and position itself as the gateway to the Royal National Park, and pride itself on keeping the natural clean and healthy. Take responsibility for creating a 'green' environment. That the local environment is restored as much as possible to health and is not put under further pressure from development. The existing nature areas need to be kept clearer and free of rubbish. Educating people to respect these areas as well as regular cleans would be an advantage. The preservation of the Shire's beautiful natural areas and green open spaces. The Royal National Park, beaches and waterways. The Sand dunes - don't close them off to the public! The Shire attracts thousands of people as weekend visitors to our beautiful environment. We need to ensure that we don't destroy the environment because of a perceived need to accommodate these visitors. The residents pay for the visitor's pleasure...not ideal!! The Shire is blessed with bush. These need to be maintained and protected from excessive use, abuse and natural disasters e.g. bush fires. The Shire is extraordinarily blessed with natural beauty and everything should be done to protect it. This is also a valuable economic asset with visitors to the region seeking these magnificent natural areas. To conserve the bushland that we have. Ways for people to access and enjoy them so that "People Outcomes" can be met. "User Pay" concept should be scrapped if the facility contributes to the goals we want as a whole, and the community as a whole should pay for them and so encourage more people to use them. Up the price of alcohol and cigarettes and chocolate and use the revenue to fund the things that we put at the top of the policy list. We have an obligation to the rest of Sydney/ NSW to protect our wonderful natural areas, in addition to our obligation to future generations. We have wonderful natural resources in the Sutherland Shire and I think we do a pretty good job of looking after them. This needs to continue so all residents can enjoy all there is on offer. We need to conserve our national parks. We need to conserve park lands and native trees and plants. Wildlife corridors. An unfortunate problem is the overcrowding at so many parks and beaches but I have no idea what to do about this. With a part of the Royal National Park within its boundary, Sutherland Shire should hold all of these equally important and encourage a clean, environment friendly community. Business should be held 100% accountable for any damage done to the environment. Sutherland Shire would do well to position itself as the "Gateway to the Royal National Park", and pride itself on limiting its impact on the environment, recognising that what it does impacts the health of such a wonderful natural environment.

Strategic Plan Review Supplementary Report 34

With the national park as part of Sutherland Shire, what it does directly impacts on the health of this vital place.

Waterways A bit of ingenuity needed to gather storm-water for later use rather than letting it go to waste. There is no money in this so no-one wants to do it!!!! A plan for encouraging responsible use of our waterways and parks as they get more crowded (e.g. - fishing, jet skis, dirt bikes in national park). Access to beaches. Access to parks and waterways. Beach care. Beaches. Beaches keep a few dog friendly beaches. Beaches clean. Clean and healthy waterways and beaches. Clean beaches and waterways. Clean Water. Clean water in the waterways, beaches etc comes first. Clean water, public parks and reserves, less interference by Council on own land. Clean waterways. Clean waterways are vitally important. Maintaining the flow of tidal waterways to enable flushing out of the rivers, estuaries etc are essential. This may mean continued dredging. Clean waterways. Climate change and sea level rise priority needs to be set between development and nature so consistent decisions can be made. Conservation of all our natural resources including waterways. Opening/improving access to waterways. Conserving beaches. Continue monitoring and reporting on waterways/water health & education marine industry. Don't allow mining interests to do any fracking anywhere near our local water supply. Dredge Gunnamatta Bay regularly. Ensure local wetlands etc are not exploited in anyway. Every person in the Shire should be educated on how to look after our environment. To recycle instead of dumping it out on the foot paths. Fine the drop kicks who flush their grass clippings, dog crap, and litter down storm water drains. Get rid of desal plant. Good beaches and waterways. Healthy beaches and pristine bush land. Don't over develop. Healthy waterways and beaches. Healthy waterways are really important to me, as well as the effective conservation of natural resources. Healthy waterways should be automatic that's why we pay such high water bills. Beaches - make them user pays regarding parking and the monies raised would maintain them. Wetlands, not much can be done except let nature do its course without anyone interfering in so far as destroying it. Healthy waterways, beachers and wetlands.Caring for these in a sustainable way. Healthy waterways, beaches & wetlands x 3. Healthy waterways, beaches and wetlands abundant healthy native flora and fauna. Healthy Waterways, Beaches and Wetlands and Conservation of unique natural resources.

Strategic Plan Review Supplementary Report 35

Healthy waterways, beaches and wetlands are every Australian's responsibility to protect and nurture. Healthy waterways, beaches and wetlands: Fishing has become a thing of the past both in quantity and quality: fish, when caught, have sores in their sides, so one does not want to eat them. GRCCC & Waterways have abandoned their position of Georges River river keeper, although not the programme, and this position was vital to the conservation and improvement of our rivers. Healthy waterways, beaches, wetlands, conservation of natural resources. Healthy waterways, parks etc. Ensuring human waste put in the correct location that cannot affect our waterways. I agree with healthy waterways, beaches and wetlands but not at a cost of stopping people‟s use of these areas. I haven't swum for 30 years so don't actually use the beaches, but I'm sure clean water is an essential requirement for those who do! Improved beach erosion. Keep the waterways clean. Keeping the beaches as appealing to its residents and tourists is critical to the Shire‟s success. Maintain and expand marine mangroves on all sheltered waterways. Maintain waterways and beaches. Maintaining the wetlands is critical. Maintenance of natural waterways etc by monitoring pollution. Manage storm water run-off. Minimising the erosion of the beach front and to minimise further development along the north end of Bate Bay. More commercial and residential development will put strain on our natural environment in these areas. More responsibility for industrial development regarding service of amenities outside of hours disturbing the neighbourhood. Processing of orders are taking far too long. More water and recreational facilities, i.e. use of Shell Point; good use of all waterways areas to be enjoyed not just by those with water craft. More ways on how to conserve water. Our water supply at Woronora Dam should also be protected from mining. Port Hacking River must be managed to ensure they remain in pristine condition for present and future generations. Port Hacking uniquely beautiful. Few waterways like it on the coast. sandy bottom, clear water - looks after it, prevent silt and pollution from urban runoff, building works, etc. Preservation of beaches. Protect rivers, bays, beaches. Sea level rise is now the white elephant for the Shire - outlining how Council will be addressing and action planning this is important for Shire residents to know about. Take care of the beaches, That we can maintain our beaches, wetlands, people need free space to enjoy their leisure. The beaches. The beaches/ nature reserves are left in a disgusting condition after every weekend. The care and maintenance of our beaches and waterways. The environment is under threat from climate change - and we should be doing our part to protect it. The health of all our water ways and the prevention of manmade pollutants from entering the environment The preservation of the Shire's beautiful waterways. The Sand Dunes, Beaches and our Waterways - I use them all and love them. They should be kept clean (more bins and doggie bags provided). I hate how people leave

Strategic Plan Review Supplementary Report 36

their rubbish lying around - especially on our beaches. It would be good to be able to do something about this. The Shire is blessed with beautiful beaches. These days there is a great emphasis on addressing climate change. To ensure the waterways, beaches and wetlands are looked after and preserved for future generations to enjoy. Water conservation. Water quality is extremely important. Waterways - There needs to be a considered approach to sharing the waterways between sailing, cruisers, water skiing/wakeboarding & canoes. Current need to limit the number of larger vessels & not continue to impose 4 knot limits everywhere. We can be healthier by having clean beaches. We must keep our waterways and beaches in pristine condition and I would recommend having officers patrolling to impose fines for those who litter.

Maintaining and managing tree canopy Allowing housing to be built so close together is a pity, especially in areas like Como were blocks are so narrow, and major trees are lost to cater for such oversized homes. Canopy coverage of Shire to be maintained. Having a tree policy for Council to commit to vegetation strategies. Protecting trees / vegetation throughout development. I'm at loggerheads with our Council which seems to prefer to let Eucalypts threaten homes rather than have them lopped...tall trees and houses really don't mix! Leafy environment. Loss of tree canopy - Council to plant more trees at what cost? Perhaps employment is more important. Maintaining substantial tree cover. Maintaining the landscaped character of most of the Sutherland Shire by retaining and replacing trees. More tree planting. Need to find some way to prevent cutting down of trees for selfish purposes (views etc.) and I know that this is a difficult task. Our Shire has so many beautiful trees along the roads which is such a beautiful feature not present in so many other Councils. Protect the tree canopy. The tree rules are too strict. Trees.

Flora and fauna A masterplan for the Taren Point area to protect its important habitat values. Abundant health native flora and fauna - this can only happen if there are healthy waterways, wetlands and bush. IMPORTANT to have lots of bush left in the Shire and not cut down for housing. Abundant Healthy Native Flora & Fauna x 4. Helping our wildlife. Stop pushing them further and further out by developing more and more bushland areas, e.g. the massive housing area planned over near Holsworthy is just terrible. Soon we won‟t have the joy of seeing any native animals in our areas. Educating the public how to treat our fauna and flora with love and respect. I love the native fauna and flora of our area and have a native garden at home. I think we're on the right track with flora and fauna, which is encouraging. Maintaining the local flora is also crucial. Minimising weed/feral animals. Mynah birds need to be killed.

Strategic Plan Review Supplementary Report 37

Provide breeding boxes around parks and residential areas where for the past 20 years, the breeding of native birds has become obsolete mainly due to human intervention causing loss of parkland & safe wildlife areas, over development coupled with feral animals and Indian Mynah birds has to cease to avoid extinction of many breeds and varieties of plant and wildlife. Public access as above will allow Council Officers to better control feral species such as deer which are causing havoc with understory vegetation in Zone 1 areas such as Arcadia Ave. Removal of feral species such as rabbits and foxes. There needs to be a concerted local effort to get rid of foxes, feral cats and rabbits to protect our native species. Also a huge effort to rid ourselves of cane toads before they become impossible to dislodge. To ensure flora and fauna are looked after and preserved for future generations to enjoy. We can be healthier by having more flora and fauna and have a better quality of life by being in touch with nature. We have more than adequate healthy native Flora and Fauna, perhaps too much, so possibly the loosening of cutting down trees on ones private property would be a start. When we care properly, intensely for our waterways, beaches and wetlands we are proving that we care about wild life, not so! In our Shire, the care of waterways, resulting in care of nature has long been destroyed by development. Development provided opportunity for profit, not nature, there remains few carefree spots, trees, hiding place, breeding places for our small and native wildlife. We are over run with Indian Mynah birds as a result of our native birds unable to adapt with a reduced capacity for safe breeding. Take a leaf out of some Council's efforts to offer a small olive branch to our wildlife, discuss with the authorities on native wildlife, provide tree hollows by leaving fallen trees on the ground, provide nesting boxes, appropriate to the breeds needed to restock the Shire, stop poisonous industrial and residential spraying of spiders and ants. They say every journey starts with but a single step, best we get a wiggle on before any remote resemblance of wildlife leaves the residential areas forever.

Waste and pollution management All of these are extremely important for me and the future of my family. I've always lived on the river and adored our reserves and it makes me sick to think that we have gas coal mining about to take place near a water catchment area near Darkes Forest which could potentially feed into those areas and affect us all. As a resident who lives near Shelley Park Beach, I am appalled at the condition the park is left in on a sunny Saturday or Sunday in summer when those who do not live in the area come here and leave ALL their RUBBISH behind! The park is left in an atrocious state, with rubbish scattered everywhere and plastic bags blowing into the ocean. Something needs to be done to alert people that fines will be imposed for those who litter and more bins need to be provided as it is often some distance to the closest bin. This needs attention prior to the coming summer! Better looking after local environment, in particular in terms of build up of waste and rubbish. Council can act as role model by reducing its own emissions and provide accurate information to the community. Encourage recycling and hefty fines for people littering especially in parks in Cronulla during summer. Go Green to events - ban bottled water from all Shire events and make these events carbon neutral - be a leader in this field - many other Councils are making steps - you just need to acknowledge the importance - the Council should be a role model Greater effort to stop dumping of rubbish illegally including abandoning of cars that are no longer wanted in suburban streets. Improve recycling methods.

Strategic Plan Review Supplementary Report 38

It should apply stringent regulations on business to ensure pollution of the natural does occur, and if it does, that companies are held liable for the full cleanup bill. Litter - whilst the incidence of litter is not as obvious as it is in other local government areas by my observations, litter significantly reduces the visual amenity of nature areas and fouls and obstructs the natural flora and fauna ecosystem. More cleaning services and garbage needed to save rubbish becoming an environmental issue within the Shire. Pollution control, more public bins for rubbish. Pollution of Nature as a whole, especially by businesses dumping waste illegally which is still a big issue. Pollution of the waterways. Pollution. Pollution free waterways by more efficient run off management and sewer filtration and recycling. Prevention of manmade pollutants from entering the environment. Reliable garbage disposal (which is excellent, I might add). Rubbish dumping. Sewage treatment plant. Strict noise adherence to DA‟s.

Water and energy use and conservation Council measures to reduce the carbon footprint of the Council and residents. Every new build house has to have a total solar roof and must have foam insulation in the walls, ceiling roof. Getting rid of the underground creek mining is also crucial. We are only stewards of the Shire - we MUST leave NATURE in a better position than when we found it. Investigate future sources of supply (other than oil) e.g. wind and solar power. Offer rebates for those with solar panels and water tanks. Reduced use of electricity by Council, improved green electricity infrastructure (street lighting, solar panels on Council buildings etc).

Air quality Clean air x 2. Reduce air pollution.

Disaster management A well planned and coordinated disaster management and recovery strategy. Bush fire prevention and control. Bushfire Disaster Management. Disaster Management & Recovery is critical - ensuring natural (or otherwise) disasters have designated plans - designated safe zones, rally points etc. Educate the community about zoning to prevent disasters. Provision of community education to manage disasters. Effective disaster - important to be able to get out of the Shire if danger is occurring. One heavy rainfall and all the roads out are blocked. Effective Disaster Management I live alongside a bushed reserve at the end of Nelson St Engadine for some 28 years now and not once has it been burnt back to reduce the risk of a fire ....a disaster waiting to happen !!!!! How may house and lives would be lost? Who cares? Effective Disaster management & Recovery. That plans are put in place that work and everyone is informed when disaster is about to strike. Effective Disaster Management will be needed in future to cope with rising seas from climate change.

Strategic Plan Review Supplementary Report 39

Effective Disaster Management will be needed in future to cope with rising seas from climate change. Effective Disaster Management & Recovery. Emergency plans know to the community. Ensure by back burning that property is at less of a risk in bush fire season. For disaster management, we need to have regular back burns to keep the bushland adjoining housing areas in a fire manageable state. This regenerates into healthy, manageable bushland. If a natural disaster was to occur in Engadine i.e. "fire" there needs to be a suitable exit at both ends of the suburb. North and South. "This will save lives" May we please manage and plan for disaster now!! If there was to be a disaster in the Shire, I would hope that there is something in place to help manage any disaster that hits i.e. tidal wave, earthquake etc. If not, we need to have something in place. This needs to be communicated to Shire residents in the case of emergency, so that we all know what to do. If we don't already have effective Disaster Management and Recovery options in place, what have our rates been used for. Let's do another hike in rates to get a Councillor‟s mates company in who knows nothing about these things but instead let the emergency services handle it, as one would hope they are trained in these matters. It is important for us to have well planned disaster plans. With so much National Park in the Shire fire is a continual threat. More hazard reduction to provide protection of some sort during fire season. Planning for bushfires and disaster if the refinery at Kurnell blows up. I don't believe our planning or knowledge of what is planned is done well. Presumably Disaster management and recovery are largely the preserve of state and federal government the Council needs to work closely and maintain proactive input and communication with the relevant bodies. STOP building in fire danger zones e.g.: At the back of Corinth Road, Heathcote and Forum Drive Heathcote. We are told to clear back the land at the back of houses, so instead THE Council continue to sell the land and approve homes on these fire danger areas. These are interconnected and inseparable, even disasters, and much can be mitigated by good planning. Vigilance with regard to the Nuclear Reactor & a good disaster recovery plan in place that all residents have a copy of the document. Vigilance with regard to the bush fires in the area, proper for-planning of such an event. With more severe weather events predicted in the not-too-distant future, planning for localised action will be important.

Council as a community leader I think Sutherland Council takes that role on well and feel sure they have a good grip on keeping our Shire healthy. Reduced use of electricity by Council, improved green electricity infrastructure (street lighting, solar panels on Council buildings etc). Council can act as role model by reducing its own emissions and provide accurate information to the community.

Community Education A much greater level of community engagement needs to occur regarding environmental concerns. Only then can communities make informed decisions. Clean nature areas. Locals care for the resources. Continue the current good work with the educational roles of the Council Parks and garden people.

Strategic Plan Review Supplementary Report 40

More education on how we can all make a difference to the environment and home and within the community. It goes beyond recycling. More local, free seminars connecting families to nature. Public education to the importance of protecting biodiversity. Supporting school environmental projects and education funding. The natural resources in this area are vital. I would like to see a lot of focus on becoming sustainable in our environment and being responsible for our affects on the environment. At our own homes, in commercial areas and in the community in general. This area is unique and should be valued as such. Encourage the people to take part and value the above so that Council is not forcing the enforcement on people but is a partner.

Other All are important. All aspects of natural environment can be enjoyed in an unspoilt condition. All nature issues are important but they need to be managed so that all interest groups are catered for. All of the above x 3 All of the above - these areas I would rate as most important. All of these are of critical importance. Support the carbon tax.

Strategic Plan Review Supplementary Report 41

Governance

Strong, responsible and responsive Council A fair representation for the broader community and values that are acceptable to all cultural backgrounds without isolating a single minority aver all others. A strong Council is needed to ensure all aspects are addressed. After years of been involved in local Government, I can honestly say we have the eager hard workers and the corrupt self interest groups playing games. We need to clearly spell out what is right and wrong, and then travel toward what is right. This starts with showing our children the right way to live and condemn corruption, lies greed and all negative aspects of humanity. Yes We Can!! Better signposting for LOCAL elections. Big politics should be kept out of Shire Council. It is not meant to be just a training ground for aspiring state politicians. This stops us getting genuine and responsible leaders and is an abuse of our Council. Business people and self interest people/groups should not be allowed to run for Council. Community orientated people are the ones we need. Community to be aware of Councillors involvement in what matters to our community, business wise and community based. Consider all DA applications equally. Council are accountable and transparent in their leadership. Council determining the core services it provides and then determining the service level in conjunction with the community. Council should act democratically. Cut down number of Councillors. Democracy must be taught & explained to all, especially school aged. Democracy? How about effective and responsible non-partisan representation? How about a cooperative and consensus building approach from the Councillors rather than the current bickering, time wasting and ineffective adversarial approach?? Dismantle the Nanny State and at-fault litigation! Make people hold themselves responsible for the risk of living. Self-insure if you're that concerned. Make sure you're perfect before you criticise someone else. Relax the watchdogs and internal auditors who force people to follow rules absolutely when reasonable judgement would have a better outcome. Let people make mistakes without suing them for being wrong (and avoid people not saying anything for fear of being wrong). Let's put the "civil" back into "civilised". Let's have the best leaders we can afford and not criticise them for not being the best of the best. Effective leaders need not to argue with one another, however do something that affects the public in a positive way, etc. Equal opportunities, stamping out bullying & violence. Equal opportunity. Equity. Developers and business people appear to have more access to Councillors and more influence over Councillors‟ decision making than others. Fair access for all. Far sighted decision making that recognises changing times and social values. Feel good themes don't help when there are conflicting aims. Its time Council made some of the harder decisions (trees or housing?) to keep the Shire growing. A dormant retirement suburb is not good for residents. Geez, responsible leadership is definitely a priority but how can it be achieved when so many DH's try to assume the mantle of community leaders. Some sort of commonsense aptitude test? Ask that prospective leaders provide evidence of proficiency in a voluntary role before getting their hands on the levers of power. Soccer club official, landcare group organiser, scout leader, marine rescue volunteer, surf club office holder and patrol participant, volunteer with aged care or hospital, P&C secretary, employed, have Strategic Plan Review Supplementary Report 42

performed in some community capacity with sufficient distinction that can obtain references. Get party politics and politicians out of Councils NOW - or just get rid of this 3rd tier or government. Get rid of the "independents" who are actually members of a political party but don't declare it - that's dishonest! I have been to one Council meeting - it was dreadful. I have never seen such self centred antics. Talk about putting party politics before the wellbeing of the Shire. They should all be ashamed of themselves, and remember WHO is paying them and WHY. I think Council does a good job albeit in a time when finances are shrinking. I think that by being positive and open Council can best achieve lasting goals. I would like a Council that is visionary and innovative. A Council that doesn't for example settle for mediocre residential development that outlives the moron who signed off on it by decades. I would like to hope that we have a responsible and reliable leadership for the Shire, so that no bad mistakes are bad that jeopardise the Shires future. It is important to gain the trust and support of the community. Be honest and sincere not a typical Council leader. Leaders to stand by what they say. leaders willing to make hard decisions for the greater good - no fence sitting Leadership shown by Sutherland Shire Councillors is on the whole poor - apart from a handful of proactive Councillors Leadership that supports community groups/families and the vulnerable. Management of the area needs to be done in a responsible manner where no one individual or business is given privileges / benefits to the detriment of the majority or others. Mayor should be elected by the people. Moral leadership that stands up to interest groups to protect the needs of the local Shire. More visibility of Councillors for example at local school P&C meetings etc to establish a relationship of mutual respect and trust with the community. Need to take politics out of local government & attract leaders to Council, rather than politicians. None, I am generally pleased with the performance of this Council. Party politics and not common sense have been responsible for the main disasters that have occurred in the Shire. (Northern Access Road a great example). People being informed of what is happening at local Council level. Planning for the Shire should not be considered in isolation - the Shire cannot offer absolutely everything that 200,000+ people might want and cannot restrict what it has from others...leadership not NIMBY. Responsible decision making with long term strategies. Responsible leadership x 9. Responsible Leadership - Proactive leaders who attempt to actually do something. Responsible leadership - wouldn't it be wonderful if our Council representatives came from the position of really wanting to serve the community and residents of the Shire instead of feathering their own nests and using it as a political stunt or jump. Responsible leadership isn't an outcome - it‟s an essential requirement to ensure that the rest of the outcomes can be delivered. Councillors should be engaged with strategic decision making and be aware of the impact that advocating over trivial day to day issues and individual residents issues has on reducing resources that should be used for delivering better outcomes for the wider community. They should assist the residents in understanding why Council processes are the way they are, not by-passing the system to get outcomes on matters that relate to individual residents. They represent 80,000 households not 30 whinging households. Responsible leadership needs fearlessness, not mediocrity. Strategic Plan Review Supplementary Report 43

Responsible Leadership. Christian values. Responsible planning for future generations, so that our Shire has both opportunities for business but also bushland and vast expanses of nature for our children to enjoy. Responsible, transparent, accountable, trustworthy leadership is at the heart of all of the above. Saying No sometimes instead of making money. See the local MPs out in the community more, not just at election time. Small factional interest groups can drive politicians to allow unacceptable behaviour, using the excuse of "democracy". Suggest looking at the staffing levels in Council and considering whether you need more workers to get some jobs done... That leaders lead equitably for the good and responsible outcomes for the people at large and not for party political gain. That they not only try to do the best for the people of the community but for the amazing natural heritage and beauty that is found in the Shire. That red tape is kept to a minimum when local events are organised - if people have to jump through too many hoops they won't bother. The council must be a fair representation of all ages, not filled with baby boomers. We need Gen Y on the council. The disjunct between strategic thinking and planning policy in the Shire has been the problem in the last couple of runs around the block. The People‟s LEP was a sham and current planning policy is a hangover from that backward thinking. Time to share the responsibility of the city's population growth in a manner that will benefit the local economy and activity centres. The role of Councillors remains at the strategic level and not at the day to day operational level. The Shire Councillors have lifted their game enormously over the past 6 years. Their credibility still requires a firmer anchoring. Training for those standing for Council office in roles and ethical standards. When a conflicting issue arise, how is the decision made between the two outcomes? What is the priority for acting on these issues?

Transparent and accountable decision making A Shire Council that is transparent in all dealings. Accountable. An accountable Council. Balance between Council interference and peace and order; Council too restrictive currently. Being able to access information about decisions made - transparent leadership. Council are accountable and transparent in their planning. Council doing well (compared to some other Councils) but it could outline importance/background of decisions made to limit false representations of the facts. Council personnel who are transparent in their operations and can communicate effectively with their clients. End the cronyism of Council tenders. Ethical leadership from Council staff and Councillors is essential. I believe it is important for local government to be open and accountable in its decisions and processes. Keep the Council user-friendly and approachable. Leaders should be more accountable.... and less party politics. No exemptions to Council rules re developments. Leadership accountable to community. Monitor closely links between Councillors and developers and business in general. Do not become a replica of Wollongong, Rockdale, and Tweed etc. Strategic Plan Review Supplementary Report 44

More transparency between Council and development. Most of the above has to be done via responsible leadership. Keeping Council accountable. No more nepotism. Ready low cost GIPA access. Responsible leadership means honest, accountable and open and at state level this is not the case. Decision making is often driven by politics instead of the issue. Some professional people working in Council should be screened to stop corruption. Democracy has to be based on honesty. I am sick of been told this can't happen. It has to for the future of man on this planet. Sutherland Shire should be 100% accountable for the decisions it makes. That dodgy deals aren't done with big business to run roughshod over smaller local businesses - the smaller businesses are what sustain our sense of local community, not the multinationals. That our Council is open and honest, show commonsense and not stick to political parties when making decisions on the needs of all the community. The Council should be prepared to completely accountable for the decisions it makes. Transparent government and consultation. Transparent. Transparency in Council and Councillor dealings.

A communicative Council As a rate payer I want to know my money is being spent wisely. Stop spending money and time on things that don't matter and put your efforts into the important issues i.e. Safety in the community, infrastructure, education. Effective and efficient use of ratepayers‟ money spent on appropriate services and resources. Further education in schools and other areas on the roles and responsibilities of Council including Councillors and management staff. I think Council needs to educate people on what it does in terms of its services, facilities, infrastructure and its advocacy role. I'm not aware of many Council policies, and would find it hard to know if leadership roles are taken on with correct responsibility. I'm sure there is available information if I so desire to investigate. Make known procedures of how people can stand for election on Council and play that important role in the community. More community consultation is needed to help the community understand what Council does and why we need them. More information about what local electorate we are in and who is in leadership of the Shire. Not enough info on Councillors and what their "agenda" is for the Shire. That they can be contacted and that they reply.

An engaged community A Council that is responsive to rate payers' needs and requests. Active consultation with community early in decision making. Adequate consultation by the Council for major projects with the community. Being able to communicate back on local issues and be heard. Being able to have a voice in areas that concern my family and local community. Being communicated to about local issues, and being able to communicate back and be heard on the same issues. Better access to Council for comments or feedback like a website that someone monitors and actions.

Strategic Plan Review Supplementary Report 45

Closely align community feedback/preferences, assets and capital works with the budget and rating reviews. Community consultation and involvement in important decisions also community can help and become involved in vegetation, rubbish control - have a special clean up the Shire day etc. Community consultation in all matters is of vital importance, especially in major construction and infrastructure projects. It should actively encourage community participation. Community engaging in the Council's running. Consultation on issues directly affecting my life style and preferences for planting and changing the immediate environment. Consultation with rate payers is paramount before major decisions affecting the community are made. Democracy is a grossly misused word from my experience, true democracy does not dictate to residents and business owners what is going to be erected, taken down or put up alongside parks and beaches, meant to be shared by all Australians. Loss of Australian entity, lifestyle and culture must be addressed, listed as priority to salvage for all Australian families, return to listening what people want from their Shire, Council, parks and beaches, business and federal government. Democracy where we can all have our say to make our Shire grow and prosper. Democracy, when did that start. If this were a true democracy then it would be what the people want not a handful of elected officials who can afford to run for office. For a democracy to work all matters regarding budgets, finances need to be put to the rate payers and only those who pay taxes and rates. After all if you don't contribute, why should you have a say regarding the spending of others money. Educate community on ways that they can input into decision making run Council meetings offsite in different wards. Ensuring that all areas of the community have an input to the area. Fairness for all consultation with the community. Get Council committees to consider the real issues, not just individuals representing their own interests - make them more representative of large groups of people in our community. Have working parties of "everyday" Shire residents who can be a think tank for solutions - you need to collaborate and value opinions more. Fight for the residents of Maianbar and Bundeena to be put back in the Shire for voting - they live in the Shire, pay rates and yet you don't get their vote - somehow something has happened to democracy. You need their support and votes. Having responsible leadership would allow us to have equal say in the decisions that affect their lives. I believe the citizen panels influencing development have too much sway, and that the former representative development by Councillors for their wards was more effective. I doubt whether democracy is a word used widely these days, what use to be a carefree society, a family lifestyle, a culture that was special, an era when it was special to be Australian and love our nation, has long since moved away. Typically what our differs fight for, freedom for our wonderful country seems to be fading, hopefully as more decide to turn up at dawn services how wonderful! The real Aussie can prevail. There is a lack of voice for Australians, without fear of being labelled racist, it is easier to shut up and say nothing, we are very polite it seems, when we see war memorials desecrated that no police action or surveillance can change the thoughts of many who do not want Australia to be as strong, as fearless and as carefree as it once was. I believe responsible leadership is to embrace what are our strengths, encourage the Australian lifestyle in an Australian country, make it clear we are united as Australians that we do not follow nor allow cultural extremists to stand in the way our way of lifestyle, our culture and love of life.

Strategic Plan Review Supplementary Report 46

I think there are some positives from Council here. But bring back town hall meetings and continue to involve youth. I want authorities to listen to the needs of local residents and provide a balance for all groups through being educated about issues and by having a progressive attitude. If Council is serious about long term planning both within its walls and outside, short term politics needs to play less of a role in decision making. Council should also look to providing real opportunities for community members to consider local issues and work together to solve them. Partnerships need to be encouraged and fostered. Both elected members and staff need to model good corporate governance and ethical, open decision making. If we don't go to Council meetings, for the right to have our issues heard and recorded somehow. Invite people to Council meetings and promote them better, give them a say. Create suggestion boxes for people living in the Shire. Involve local organisations, promote and encourage community involvement at all levels. Involving community more in local and Shire issues, encouraging community support and participation. Lay people's opinions counting in decision making and more ownership given to lay people. Leadership needs to reflect the community. Informed decision making and opportunity for community involvement is key. Listen to the people of the Shire. Localised decision making- Council given back their powers to make infrastructure decisions after EXTENSIVE consultation with the community. Making Council approachable - having the community feel like they are able to be heard and it is worthwhile being involved. Making sure that the residents of the area have an active and meaningful role in future options. Not just politicians, local businesses, etc., pushing their own agendas. More opportunity for community consultation, greater attempt to engage voters for local Council elections. More say in the planning of the direct area you are living in, regarding planning of housing, shops and recreational areas. Move towards a participatory democratic system so people can vote on issues. No use having a community active in civic life, if the community is not listened to. Opportunity to participate. People having the rights of expressing opinions leaders listening and "fighting" for the community needs. People need to be encouraged to participate in our democracy. People need to feel accepted in the community and able to contribute their opinions. Please take these comments on board without fear of offending some bureaucrat who is in only in politics for the party and not the people that voted them in. The Shire is in bad shape after years of neglect. Provide the community with info on Council‟s LEP and zoning to support the vision Responsible Leadership - Leaders who listen to all areas of the community, what the community needs and any issues. Responsible Leadership ...carry out surveys of the people you represent and ask questions of the person in the street ...not just plan what you want, for think we need ...... WE NEED VALUE FOR OUR MONEY. Not a tiled concrete seat in Engadine or a carved stone crab in some kids play ground at Shelley Park, Cronulla what a waste of money ! @ $10,000 for the 2 ...what a joke! This is NOT in my opinion responsible anything...let alone Leadership. Send more surveys like this to residents on specific local issues. This could be a good way to obtain feedback for a local policy/plan you would like to put in place. Thank you. Shire residents should decide what happens in the Shire. Strategic Plan Review Supplementary Report 47

Suggestion boxes at the Council chambers so that residents can offer ideas on how to improve the Shire. Get residents involved in ideas and new developments. Supporting its residents as they provide feedback. Sutherland Shire should actively encourage participation in community consultation, which should occur as much as possible and on all major developments in the area. Public opinion and environmental impact should be the main deciders as to whether economic projects and development occur within Sutherland Shire. Take the community opinion in consideration in decision making.... good balance between modernity and conservation... Thank you for this opportunity - greatly appreciated. Thanks for asking. I'd just really like to see a more community committee based approach form Council. That everyday people be heard over big business. That I have the opportunity to participate in civic life if I see fit. That objective information about Council decisions gets out as a balance to the often biased reporting in the Leader. That people have a right to speak their mind, no matter what their opinion. The Council needs to respond to the community‟s views on the development/over development of the area. Once the ambience and lifestyle of the area are destroyed it is very hard to get it back. Council needs to listen to the people on this issue and not necessarily the developers. We need responsible leadership that listens to the residents, not the developers‟ profit motives. Whatever happened to the community forums we had with Council officers, and key position community workers and the public. These elicited solutions to problems before they impacted on our community, and were very proactive in community leadership.

Responsive State and Federal Governments A master plan that addresses all requirements of state & local authorities will be effective. We cannot just consider local Council items. Roads (both state & local controlled) with increased population growth are the key issues that need to be considered in line with Council's criteria. Looking at Wollongong & Kogarah Council they seem to be moving a controlled & planned direction in lieu of an ad hoc approach. Accountable and responsible local, state and federal members who are in touch with the aspirations and the problems experienced by residents and who have a willingness to contribute to the amelioration of difficulties and celebration and accessibility of the positive features. Final authority in land development issues to rest with local Councils. Failing that - move to a totally NSW State-controlled government system, accountable to its electorate i.e. reduce to a two-tiered government system and use the financial savings to meet the values in items 1 to 5. Issues for other levels of government x 2. Quite happy with our system of local government but resent the intrusion into planning by the State Government. Increased community activity in civic life particularly community members under the age of 30. Increase accountability of local businesses/organisations to keep the Shire tidy e.g. Sharks Football Club, McDonald and other fast food outlets. Speak to state and federal government to ensure the Shire has a fair say. The Council needs more support from state government if it wants to improve its strategic plan.

Strategic Plan Review Supplementary Report 48

Working together A community which makes informed decisions, works cooperatively and supportively to achieve common goals. Communication and generosity between organizations: churches, schools, companies etc.

Active Citizens Civic life. Community active in civic life x 3. Community Active in Civic Life - celebrating those who contribute to the community. Every attempt should be made to promote participation in civic life of all the community. I happen to think the Council is doing a good job - but maybe the residents need to help too. Increasing community active in civic life, more awareness on citizenship and personal responsibilities. This is a state and local issue as well as national issue requiring active parental/ guardian participation. More encouragement of the younger generations to take place in active civic life. That I am able to vote.

Strategic Plan Review Supplementary Report 49

Section 2: Workshop Responses

Vision

Accessible Able to move freely Access to all areas without car. Cycle or on foot. Accessible. Better highways/roads in Shire. Easy to access. Easy to travel around. Good public transport. Improved transport corridors. Integrated transport systems. More footpaths. Plenty of free access to parks and beaches. Safe roads.

Affordable Affordable.

Clean Clean x 3. Well maintained and looked after.

Connected A community who respect the environment and each other. A great place to live with a family and into maturity. A harmonious, healthy, thriving community. A safe, family friendly society. An involved, consultative and proactive community. Caring for seniors. Catering for families. Child friendly. Cohesive. Diverse. Family orientated. Focussed on basic services for the community. Free and safe with community spirit. Friendly x 3. Happy. Harmonious x 2. Harmonious/happy. Have abundant cultural facilities and opportunities. Have a sense of community. Pleasant. Relaxed environment. Respectful.

Desirable A place where people want to live and be safe. By 2030 the Shire will be a great place to live. Desirable to live in. Strategic Plan Review Supplementary Report 50

Envy of other municipalities. Interesting/enjoyable. Shire must be marketed to other areas (clean, healthy, innovative, and creative). Shire must stand out above the rest. Find best solutions in other areas and do better. Develop a culture of “world‟s best practice”.

Green “Green” (trees, parks). Not overdeveloped. A green sustainable environment. A place which maintains our natural flora and fauna. Environmentally friendly. Environmentally responsible. Environmentally sound. Not gridlocked from vehicles. Green. Green space. More green space. Proven as a green shire. Retaining as much as possible the natural beauty of the Shire. Sustainable population with natural environment.

Prosperous Debt free. Educated. Efficient. Has abundant employment. Is to have an educated community. More self-reliant (contained). Productive. Progressive. Prosperous. Self sustaining and economically independent. Wealthy. Well off financially.

Safe A safe, healthy and productive community for my family if they still live here. Crime free. Safe x 14. Safe and infrastructure to support development. Safe secure.

Sustainably developed Appropriate development building. Low density. Low density housing. More facilities. Not be overcrowded/overdeveloped without improvements to services. Not gridlocked. Not overdeveloped. Limited medium density and & high rise developments. Not overpopulated, well balanced. Sustainable.

Strategic Plan Review Supplementary Report 51

Sustainable development. To be able to cope with the extra population etc parking, enough venues. Uncluttered community. Uncongested. Used within its capacity to be sustainable.

Well A place where people can live in a healthy environment. Has abundant leisure facilities and opportunities. Healthy. Healthy and active community. Lifestyle.

Other Shire Vision (meanings) “achieves…….economic opportunities, “accountable decision making” – vetted by Council. Agree with directions although “motherhood statements”. Describes “Utopia?” The most important thing for the shire to be in 30 years is to have responsible dog owners.

Strategic Plan Review Supplementary Report 52

People

Local Community Safety Anti-social behaviour by youth: graffiti, drinking. Community safety. Domestic violence. Drug issues. Graffiti. Graffiti control. Introduce consequences of individual‟s actions. Law & Order. Maintaining perception of safety. More improved safe fenced play areas. More police presence around shopping centres. Night safety in streets. Personal safety for all age groups, including visitors. Safe community (particularly for older people. Their perception of feeling safe). Safety. Safety for people: Anti social behaviour. Safety for people: More footpaths. Safety of communities. Safety: Sense of place. Safety: Civic responsibility/community responsibility, communicate that this is a social responsibility. Safety: Environmental/urban design. Safety: Graffiti and vandalism. Safety: Pride of community. Safety: Youth need to be engaged. Clubs + hubs. Security in Shire. Strict graffiti control.

A sense of community Anti-exclusiveness (Bondi events – school hols, not in Shire. Diff/food deli/food options) CALD workers educating the community. Community Leadership: Meaningful community involvement. Need for more volunteers etc. Creating community. Cultural diversity. Diverse but cohesive population, encourage cohesion of diversity (age, ethnicity, gender). Diversity in culture & demographics: age, income, ethnicity. Diversity of ethnic/cultures → more integration of cultures/demographics. Education of community re: indigenous heritage and culture. Emerging ethnics groups – need for services and cultural activities. Events: Regularity of community events is a key to their success → not always in Cronulla. Improve inter-generational relationships. Interconnection: physically (incl. transport/access) & socially. Isolation of community. Issue of integration of different cultures/racial issue. More community events – family orientation – more community family markets etc. More trusting and sociable society. No sense of community.

Strategic Plan Review Supplementary Report 53

People and social interaction, people in Shire too cliquey, not welcoming of newcomers People living alone (social isolation). Share Shire (with everybody) – promoting tourism. Social networks – to encourage: (Urban design, Need for sense of place, Lack of congregational places/provision of community hubs). Social Networks: Need for more and variety of events for population across all age groups. Accessibility to events/beaches, not in parks etc. Support for emerging communities (specialised paid workers to support).

Community wellbeing Cohesion between service providers: Remove duplication, Better use of resources. Community facilities & activities. Education Medical facilities. Health services. Healthy and active community involved in formal and informal sporting and recreation activities. More facilities for all age groups. Partnering: Sporting clubs and Local enterprises. Passive recreation. Recreational activities. Support for existing community groups (from SSC).

A prosperous Shire A prosperous Shire. Accommodating different models of business activity. Building healthy local economy. Creating employment opportunities within the Shire. Education. Education – opportunities for more local youth groups. Education and activities for young people – more community based not formal through schools. Education being more technology media based. Education facilities. Education infrastructure: Expansion e.g. broadband, online. Education infrastructure: Maintenance of current structures e.g. TAFE. Education: Accessibility to educational facilities. Education: University presence. Education: Need for education for older age groups – or to cater for demographic changes. Employment: need to market the Shire. Employment: becoming less economic diverse. Health and educational services. Infrastructure – Educational. Jobs – education e.g. SShed local employment to be encouraged. Lifelong learning; Local, Online. Local education and employment opportunities. Local employment. Local employment (business growth). Local industry impact environment. More local industry so that people work locally, not travel/use transport and have more leisure time. Local jobs – telecommunication centres. Promote Cronulla. Protection of small business from large monopolies. Strategic Plan Review Supplementary Report 54

Providing facilities for educational providers to operate from. Providing facilities for health (particularly) and educational facilities to operate from Sustaining local business. Technology: Communications. Technology: Community Interaction – will change e.g. social media. Technology: Jobs for young people changing → changing opportunities lease to needs for training etc. Telecommuting jobs: stay home to work and still be connected. Teleworking from home. Uni presence. University. University: Learning centres i.e. Local university to be more accessible then reduces travel, etc.

Considering our People Ageing Aged care facilities. Ageing in place. Ageing population x2 Ageing Population (Health, Disability, Housing, Transport, Social connectedness). Ageing population: Accessibility isolation of community. Ageing population: Active areas → walking →cycling. Ageing population: appropriate housing/esp. ageing. Ageing population: Change to family units. Ageing population: disproportionate growth. Ageing population: health care – services localised. Ageing population: Housing, Services, and Infrastructure. Ageing population: need for more flexible workplace for ageing population. Ageing: health services and facilities & support. Ageing: support in own homes & community. Medical facilities for aged. More emphasis on needs of the aged – extra seating.

Young People Look to positive values of youth and encouraging and involving young people. Integrating their activities into broader community activity. More teenager facilities.

Children and families Affordable (Childcare, Housing). Childcare. Childcare options: Family co-operative care arrangements at a local level. Childcare: current shortage (as was 15 year ago) – more demand then support (further pressure from additional 10k population). Business opportunity for council. Children: Community conscience (training better citizens @ early age). Children: Education. Children: Well-being. Children services/Early childhood. Early childhood centres (Affordable, Accessible, Linked with support services, Cultural links).

Strategic Plan Review Supplementary Report 55

Vulnerable people Aboriginal people. Emergency accommodation in shire (Families, Women, Men, Homeless). Increase in homelessness – provision of low income housing needed. Maintaining a mix of age/income/social groups. Maintaining population mix. Population in Shire, now unsustainable. Pressure of provision disability services. Supporting skilled migration. Vulnerable people (Mental health services, Accommodation).

Community Development Leadership: Development and mentoring.

Strategic Plan Review Supplementary Report 56

Place

Integrated and complementary travel Accessibility x 3. Accessible signage. Accessible signage for Transport. Accessible signage: other languages – diversity. Bus service to train stations – mini community buses which feed into train schedules to reduce car traffic/needs/station parking. Early morning services. Car usage. Congestion. Cycle – Wanda development; Overflow parking & traffic – how do cyclists negotiate this? Cycleways for linkages. Cycling. Cycleways (cars off the road, active, green). Disabled parking – wheelchairs/frames. Too many people using that should not. Frequent buses to all points. Interconnection: physically (incl. transport/access) & socially. Linking „community‟ via more cycleways/walkways/green areas. More efficient modes for people movement. Parking & traffic (Safety and Infrastructure planning). Princes Highway bypass & F6? Less traffic jams in peak times. Traffic and transport, isolated suburbs. Traffic and transport, Congestion. Traffic and transport, Providers. Traffic flow and congestion. Traffic/transport congestion: Variety of options, Providers?, Isolated suburbs. Transport. Transport - Conflict transport directions/roads vs public transport. Transport - Employment within Shire – all age groups. Transport - Walking, cycling public, off road cycleways. Transport /Accessibility: a greater disconnect between transport and land use. Need to provide greater linkages to PT. Transport /Accessibility: higher demand for transport and services on weekends. Transport /Accessibility: Infrastructure for alternatives – to reduce car dependency. Transport infrastructure improved. Small buses in continual loops. Community buses. Transport issues. Transport options to centres. Transport Princes Highway – wider picture, not just Sutherland. Transport: Ageing population. Transport: Bus shelters. Transport: Insufficient infrastructure e.g. Menai, Bundeena. Transport: viable transport system.

Housing our people Affordability Affordable housing: Changing population, Housing options and locations. Balance of housing and infrastructure. Changing needs. Children staying at home longer. Choice of housing.

Strategic Plan Review Supplementary Report 57

Discussion in community about what „family” means. Shift in way we think and talk about families to avoid social isolation and lone person households (home ownership and shared households). Housing – affordable & appropriate to demo profile. Provide balance of housing & relevant infrastructure. Housing - Suitable various age groups. Housing affordability: maintaining mix of people. Housing choice, Affordability (social/gen.com). Housing options for elderly. Housing options including medium density without impacting natural environment. Housing: affordability, accessibility, age appropriate. Housing: Different housing forms. Housing: Is not affordable. Housing: More compact but needs to be offset with space e.g. recreation, etc. Providing sustainable housing choices – types, forms, materials – resources (passive housing – grand designs).

Development in the Shire Balance between development and environment Balance natural resources against community needs Better buildings Development with consultation Development: appropriate quantity/quality Development: Leads to traffic (Sutherland overpass railway) Ecological Sustainable Development High density Impacts of development/overdevelopment Increase community Increase development, housing density increase Increase population Infrastructure Low impact, environmentally sensitive diversity of affordable housing which is sustainable of services Metro strategy – impact on Shire More townhouses less unit development – units increase isolation/congestion Natural limits on population – in terms of resources Natural limits on population – in terms of resources Not crowded & not over-regulated. No/yes parking meters. Residents have a sticker for parking in shire Overpopulation Population = infrastructure Population mix Population mix: providing housing options Population: effective managed growth Preventing overdevelopment Quality of life has been compromised by overdevelopment. Fast buck turnaround by developers Relationship between transport and development – density Responsible property development: green space incorporated, aesthetics, amenity Retention of commercial and employment land Social amenity of development Sustainability

Strategic Plan Review Supplementary Report 58

Infrastructure provision and maintenance Adequate infrastructure for the future Ageing – infrastructure re: such as seats, not just aged specific services Ageing infrastructure Ageing infrastructure: types/locations Assets: Increasing utilisation: keeping a balance. Maintaining condition of assets. Balancing community requirements (Managing community expectations). Utilization – impact. Costs to maintain Community engagement , What infrastructure they value and need Community facilities for changing demographics Cost of infrastructure Cost of maintenance : renew, build infrastructure Decisions about services and infrastructure are tough. Community influence: Infrastructure, support enable set direction to provide opportunities and collaboration Greater choice of community facilities leisure, recreational, cultural Infrastructure - Community centres Infrastructure - Footpaths Infrastructure - Road safety Infrastructure - Shopping Centres Maintenance of built environment Maintenance of essential services, storm water etc. Drains, graffiti, pot holes, footpaths, buildings, waterways dredged. Ongoing maintenance Peninsula and ageing Public amenities/facilities

Public places and local community hubs Accommodating employment and new models of business activity Character/uniqueness of centres Creating community/civic spaces: Unique, Active/passive, Include services, safe streetscapes Creating spaces that build community (Active, passive) Economically viable centres Hospital redevelopment → make a hub for research Local hub More dispersed shopping facilities – pedestrian/bike friendly local shopping precincts (a good one each major suburb) Open public areas Social amenity in centres Viable integrated economic hubs

Places to recreate Access to recreation Free access to national parks – like Victoria – to encourage health and welfare of its rate payers “healthier people less strain on health network” Free access to national parks (Victoria) Greater choice of leisure, recreational, cultural facilities Healthy sustainable outdoor areas with lots of recreation choices Improve passive recreation facilities Lifestyle: Lack of recreation facilities, playing fields. More green zones and easier access for population in shire Open space and community facilities: diversity of services and places Strategic Plan Review Supplementary Report 59

Open space and sporting facilities Open space infrastructure Open space: playing fields (overuse) and passive areas Overuse of waterways/foreshore/parks Passive recreational facilities – passive and for enjoyment / health Places for recreation use Recreation Recreation and park areas to play for children – maintenance Trees and gardens create a dominant and memorable image of a neighbourhood and can compensate for an undistinguished “built environment”. Need to include nature enhancement – streetscape/parks/roundabouts. Tree planting to absorb carbon dioxide. Use of outdoor green space (Accessible, Affordable, Good plans) Waterways/foreshore: saturation point

Celebrating local culture Cultural heritage (e.g.) Aboriginal heritage Degradation and loss of bushland and special places Educate people (Indigenous culture) Historical emphasis of our shire. More activities/plaques etc re: shire‟s history (in and outside of Kurnell). Have Australia Day events at Kurnell Lack of cultural heritage and built appreciation especially Aboriginal Preservation of culturally significant areas e.g. Aboriginal and Shire significant areas Recognition of history Respect aboriginal heritage

Strategic Plan Review Supplementary Report 60

Nature

Preservation of natural areas Access and useability – competing demands ownership/trade offs Competing and conflicting demands with people and place Conflict with existing environment and amenity Conversation of resources Conversation of resources – pressure of increased population e.g. water waste Cost to maintain Resources Costs of maintaining facilities – decrease use of herbicides/pesticides Development urban consolidation pressures. Balance between urban consolidation and sprawl Effect of increased population and development Identify areas for preservation – not to be developed for other purposes Improving protection measures In line with dwellings Increased pervious areas Increased pop/demand → water + quality →waste→ power→ transport Incremental loss (Pressures from development and Biodiversity) Incremental loss of bush/nature urban development Landscaping too sterile and not encouraging wildlife habitation. More wildlife friendly landscaping. Long term strategies and incentives to maintain „nature‟. Maintain Greenweb Strategy – corridors Manage natural area/space in line with population growth Managing urban impact More greenzones with increased population Not as congested Open space. Clean Parks and green spaces, beaches: Access to them – more wheelchair Parks and green spaces, beaches: Affordable Parks and green spaces, beaches: Increase public transport to lower entry costs, decrease environmental impact by cars Parks and green spaces, beaches: Increasing public access Parks and green spaces, beaches: Kurnell Pt – education centre/whale watching – more transport – aircraft pollution Parks and green spaces, beaches: Watch out for increasing density of housing Population density: Infrastructure that has low impact on environment but is growing with the density. Plan where housing is going to be Preserve and develop open space, do not reduce. Set in place ratio/policy/plan Preserve and promote shire natural historical sites Pressure from development and urbanisation Protect natural environment from overdevelopment Quality of nature: Access and useability Review zoning increased density/population → counteract loss of nature Sacrifice of nature for built development, Sustainability – for the future Urbanisation impact on natural environment (Increase bike paths, flora, fauna) West Menai – loss of bushland – whole sale loss of bushland West Menai: Loss of large area of bush, 800 ha bush, Water catchment

Strategic Plan Review Supplementary Report 61

Waterways Additional separated cycleways and walkways Beautification of beaches and bays, seating, recognition of history Clean waterways– stormwater runoff Cleaner waterways Desalination plant impact: Long term effects Efficient management of waterways for recreation Impacts on waterways (Uses/pollution) Impacts on waterways: Increase in recreation use, Increase in pollution, Privatisation: jetties, moorings (carrying capacity) Reduce erosion/more silt traps Satisfactory SSC management of beach front erosion SSC recycle stormwater Storm water management to protect water quality. Water quality

Maintaining and managing tree canopy Increase density/hard surfaces. Loss of trees/biodiversity Loss of tree canopy – unique character price of removal Loss of tree canopy (Character, Ageing trees, Not replenishing street trees) Loss of tree canopy (planting for the new tree canopy) Loss of trees. Reduced biodiversity Management of trees Nature more than trees – rock outcrops Not in my backyard – replanting – community expectations Prune trees for aesthetics and safety and improved visibility, without killing them Tree canopy loss, Habitat species

Flora and Fauna Animal limits per household and dangerous dog breeds a problem Control of feral animals (foxes/deer). Loss of flora/fauna native species Control of foreign species Exotic, non-native incoming Feral animals – weeds Flora and fauna – costs to control feral species & weeds. Education – what we should be planting Maintain indigenous flora and fauna Manage and prevent „pests‟ entering natural and urban areas e.g. cane toad, fox, rabbits Pest management Pest species management Quality of nature: Weeds and feral animals Remove pests e.g. weeds, deer, feral cats Vegetation management Vigilance in pet management. Cats versus wildlife. Noisy dogs etc Waste and pollution management Aircraft corridor Asbestos disposal – should be subsidised by state govt. Too costly to dispose of at tip – encourages illegal dumping of harmful/dangerous substances Change Waste disposal and management: Tip capacity (2025), New waste streams (electronic) Community engagement with reduce, reuse & recycle, Water tanks Dumped waste Educate people (Stormwater, Recycling) Strategic Plan Review Supplementary Report 62

Improve waste handling - reduce, reuse Limit or reduce pollution (Air, Noise, Ground, waterway) Local “pollution” e.g. home wood fires to be banned Management of illegal dumping including prosecution manufacturer‟s taking back products to reduce waste More education on recycling More frequent council cleanups Recycling awareness and training Reduction of smoke and noise pollution( Aircraft, Traffic, Trains, Domestic) Reuse stormwater Subsidies re: waste management Waste management. Recycling Waste of pollution reduction

Water and energy use and conservation Alternative energy options on existing infrastructure for council assets (leading by example) Alternative energy promote (e.g. recharge) No mining which harms environment No mining which harms environment Sustainable resources: Building: solar panels, inventing new things Underground power Use of alternate energy sources

Air quality Emissions Reduction in greenhouse gases

Disaster management Acknowledge potential disasters Better crisis planning to manage natural disasters Better emergency communication, Kurnell, Menai, Engadine Climate change (Beach erosion, Rising water levels, Sustainable resources) Climate change (Sea level rise, ETS, Long term strategies) Climate change adaptation Climate change planning and management through infrastructure Climate change: Loss of beaches, Loss of habitats, Impact on quality of places, Increased rainfall events, Temperature rise, Bushfire risk increases Disaster planning: Fire prevention – back burning, making sure it‟s done Disaster planning: Fires, Floods Disaster planning: Subsidise volunteers to have time off Disaster planning: Support SES, volunteer brigades Emergency planning for disasters beforehand/should they occur Fire hazard reduction/maintain fire trails Fire management Managing extreme events e.g. bushland fire → disaster management → people Planning for Management of impact of sea level rise Sea level rise Sea level rise – climate change

Strategic Plan Review Supplementary Report 63

Council as a community leader Holistic approach to nature Leading by example, Invest in new tech‟s Manage impact of new technologies Planning for new technologies

Community education and engagement Community awareness & involvement, education Community Involvement in decision making/planning – care and control Education and awareness of nature (Ownership, Responsibilities, Values, Strategies Education and awareness of nature → ownership of values/impacts Education for keeping Shire clean Quality of nature : Volunteers → education and awareness Volunteers

Strategic Plan Review Supplementary Report 64

Governance

Strong and responsive Council Community Leadership: Need for greater advocacy by Council to pursue local issues Stewardship – working for all the people not political ends/parties

Transparent and accountable decision making Accountable responsive service provider in touch Evidence that council decisions have considered/been guided by the strategic plan – where is it? Governance →impacts on people and their requirements Governance. Council activities seen to be fair (not biased) to all communities Transparency

A communicative Council Calendar – dedicated “your community” section in Leader Calendar for engagement activities by council – like the garbage/recycle Communication: “Listening post” in council office – continuous meeting like today. Educating/informing people about Council‟s scope of responsibility Events – weekly „what‟s on‟. Information: Social calendar – not everyone has a computer or who is computer literate Information: Use of large scale notice boards on council properties (like schools do) to advertise event. Could council get schools to advertise on their notice board 1 or 2 days a week Information: Use of rate notice (back of) for a community calendar Nominate for various types of info from council (electronic)

An engaged community Balancing existing legal structure against citizen involvement – may create expectations that cannot be met Community management Competing and conflicting demands - Holistic approach Decision making about service levels/infrastructure Engaging the community (New tech, Next Gen.) Engaging young community in the democratic process Feedback to the community about their outcomes and decisions How do you get community engaged in achieving vision? Increase interest from Council for better engagement, “need to care” Managing community expectations Managing community expectations Need to address/overcome the “squeaky wheel” syndrome Promotion – increase use of social media Real challenge how we are going to engage the next generation and get them interested in how they are going to get them involved. Academics always engaged not young people who are Shire not homogenous. People‟s views/perspectives/concerns on centres, peninsulas, etc Strategic groups (advisory groups): Housing, Ageing Community Strategies for proper community engagement are important. Use existing groups external to council, e.g. community agencies to go to them. Surveys Streamline DA time for community Streamlined DA‟s What role for PRAs? – connection to council Strategic Plan Review Supplementary Report 65

Responsive State and Federal governments Conflict/tension between state govt requirements for ↑ in dwellings – to proportion of bushland – reduce quality of life Does the state govt show evidence that they have considered strategic plan in their decision making for Sutherland shire? How do we include other level of Government and their legislative demands/control of council‟s/community actions? How does the role of state govt fit into Shire vision and how it is explained? Metro strategy – impact on Shire. What if we said “no”? How much power does the community have? Does every local council area have increased dwelling targets? Role of local/state govt in vision Too many layers of govt

Working together “Democracy” – not accurate, needs to include “partnerships” Also leadership across the community e.g. other peak organisations and agencies, how are they involved? Collaboration Spend finance efficiently

Active citizens Active citizenship Active citizenship (schools program terminology) Civic citizenship Community Leadership: Devolution of responsibility Community Leadership: Respect for one‟s own actions. Diminishing pride of place. Define people‟s role and council roles as 2 categories under people Give the impression that people have the power Involvement Leadership = Council and Community Need to express a 2 way relationship Some “personal” responsibility in people taking an interest and being active

Strategic Plan Review Supplementary Report 66

Strategic Plan Content

Advocacy for P,P,N to deliver on (links) Define people‟s role and council roles as 2 categories under people Does it underline or sit on top? Don‟t really operate in the QBL „silos‟ – cross interaction Holistic priorities How is democracy band linked into/drive the P,P, N outcomes e.g. advocacy How will local govt look in 20/30 years Intersections. Matrix? Connections/Impacts. Issues that cut across more than 1 element of the QBL – are they considered in full? All four should be considered Legislated requirements Look at the Marrickville structure of rights and responsibility Mandated Mission statement for communities. “To work together to achieve positive outcomes for not only today‟s community but also for the community of the future” No comment/agreement/policy → by Mayor/General Manager etc – demographics People is an overarching factor: impact on nature. Greater emphasis of this in the plan given their in part on all the other factors. People → Social. Transport – types of corridors are impacted by the placement of people Where is the actual idea of what the Shire will be in 20 years? Population: Transport, Health, Facilities, Regional development, Industrial areas, Tourism, Employment, Open space. How do we get there?

Strategic Plan Review Supplementary Report 67