TORRES SHIRE COUNCIL TORRES SHIRE COUNCIL - Annual Report 2015 to 2016

ANNUAL REPORT | 2015 to 2016 To lead, provide & facilitate Disclaimer: Torres Shire Council advises that this publication may contain images of information of deceased Aboriginal and Islander people. TORRES SHIRE COUNCIL ANNUAL REPORT 2015 - 2016

INDEX

04. Introduction 05. The Torres Strait 06. History 08. Torres Shire in Brief 09. Torres Shire 11. Strategic Direction 12. Partnerships 13. Contacting the Council 14. Report from the Mayor 16. Message from the CEO 18. Our Councillors 21. Advisory Committees 22. Councillors’ Remuneration 24. Council Meetings & Attendances 25. Executive Management Team 26. Organisation Chart 27. Corporate Governance 30. Statistics & Other Information 31. Community Snapshots

APPENDICES

43. Appendix 1 - Financial Statements 86. Appendix 2 - Independent Auditor’s Report 88. Appendix 3 - Current Year Financial Sustainability Report 90. Appendix 4 - Current Year Financial Audit Report 92. Appendix 5 - Long Term Financial Sustainability Statement INTRODUCTION This Torres Shire Council Annual Report provides after the end of the financial year to which the an account of the organisation’s performance, report relates. activities and other information for the financial year from 1 July 2015 to 30 June 2016

The Annual Report shows transparency in COPIES accountability for all financial and operational Objectives and strategies addressed in this performances throughout the year and contains Annual Report are contained in the Torres Shire important information for Residents and Council 2014 -2018 Corporate Plan. Ratepayers, Councillors and Staff, community groups, government, developers / investors Copies of both the Corporate Plan and this and other interested parties, on operations, Annual Report are available from: achievements, challenges, culture, purposes and plans for the future. Torres Shire Council 68 Douglas Street, Torres Shire Council is strongly committed Postal Address PO Box 171 to serving the community and provides this Thursday Island Qld 4875 Annual Report in accordance with the Local Email [email protected] Government Act 2009. Website www.torres.qld.gov.au

LEGISLATION FEEDBACK Under the Local Government Act 2009, a local Feedback and suggestions for any government must prepare an Annual Report for improvement to this Annual Report are each financial year which is from 1st July to 30th welcomed and maybe emailed to June. The report must be presented to the Local [email protected] or by phone call Government Council for adoption at a Council to the Chief Executive Officer on Telephone Meeting prior to 30th November in the year (07) 4069 1336.

Sunrise from Bayo Beach, Thursday Island

PAGE 4 TORRES SHIRE COUNCIL ANNUAL REPORT 2015 - 2016

THE TORRES STRAIT

The , of more than a hundred islands, traditionally known as Zenadth Kes, are divided into:

Gudha Maluilgal - Boigu; Dauan and Saibai Islands Muluilgal - Badu; and Moa Islands Kulkulgal - Iama (Yam Is); Warraber (Sue Is); Poruma (Coconut Is) & Masig (Yorke Is) Meriam - Mer (Murray Is); Erub (Darnley Is) and Ugar (Stephen Is) Kaiwalagal - Waibene (Thursday Is); Ngurupai (Horn Is); Kirriri (Hammond Is); Muralug (Prince of Wales Is); Gealug (Friday Is); Mawai (Wednesday Is), Palilug (Goode Is)

There are three dialects spoken within the three groups of islands, predominated by the ‘creole’ language that emerged after the arrival of the missionaries: Kala Kawa Ya (Top Western and Western group) Kala Lagau Ya (Central group) Meriam (Eastern group)

The Torres Strait is home of the First Nation Indigenous People of - Aboriginal and .

The Torres Strait islands are part of the State of , Australia and the islands of Boigu, Dauan and Saibai are within an active international border where the neighbouring country of Papua is visible from those islands’ shorelines.

The issues of Customs, Quarantine, Immigration and Defence are administered from Thursday Island within a Treaty that also maintains traditional cultural and trade ties between Papua New Guinea and the people of the Torres Strait.

PAGE 5 HISTORY Torres Strait Islanders and Aboriginals occupied the Torres Strait during a period when the celistial tides provided a bridge between Papua New Guinea and Australia over 40,000 years ago.

The first place of permanent European settlement in Torres Strait was Somerset, south-east on the tip of and was occupied from 1863 to 1877.

On account of the hazardous tidal channel between Somerset and Albany Island, the settlement was moved to Port Kennedy – Thursday Island - where the harbour was considered safe with a deep anchorage for the increasing shipping movements of the Pacific traders and the Christian missionaries throughout the Torres Strait.

The discovery of pearl shell in the 1860’s led to the influx of Japanese, Malays, , Micronesian and European nationalities to this region.

Photo of the London Missionary Church in 1934 on Jubilee Procession on Thursday Island, 1927 Darnley Island

Thursday Island Waterfront – Businesses and the Imperial Hotel

PAGE 6 TORRES SHIRE COUNCIL ANNUAL REPORT 2015 - 2016

HISTORY (CONT’D) The London Missionary Society landed on Darnley Island on July 1, 1871 and introduced christianity to its Torres Strait Islander inhabitants.

July 1 is recognised as the “Coming of the Light” and is commemorated annually throughout the Torres Strait. July 1 is a Torres Shire gazetted bank holiday each year.

In 1770 Captain James Cook made claim to the east coast of Australia, on Possession Island, in the name of the King of England, the British Crown under international award of terra nullius. This concept was overturned by the Mabo High Court Decision on 3 June 1992 and for this reason this date is now commemorated as Mabo Day – a Torres Shire gazetted bank holiday.

The inaugral Island Council Meeting at Masig in August 1937 set about the revival of the need to establish the prominancy of Torres Strait Islanders in Queensland and Local Government on the outer islands which would set a precedent for the Town Council on Thursday Island. The first migration of outer-island tribal group to Thursday Island occurred around the period of 1930 to form Tamwoy Reserve community under the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Act.

Engineers Wharf Pontoon, Thursday Island

PAGE 7 TORRES SHIRE IN BRIEF

Torres Shire consists of Waibene (Thursday Island); Ngurupai (Horn Island); Gealug (Friday Island); Mawai (Wednesday Island); Muralug (Prince of Wales Island) and Palilug (Goode Island) and areas of the Northern Peninsula Area (NPA) of Cape York.

Torres Shire is the northern most Shire in Queensland and is located in a Special Commonwealth Territory of Australia with an international border from the coast line of Western Province in Papua New Guinea down to the 11th degree parallel crossing the Cape York Peninsula at the Jardine River.

Torres Shire is the northern most administration centre for the Commonwealth and State Governments based on Thursday Island.

Torres Shire has a population of approximately 4,600 with a transient number of residents working in education, police, ambulance, medical, customs, recreation, travel and administrative needs based on Waibene and Ngurupai.

The Horn Island International Airport is owned and operated by Torres Shire Council.

TSC Sports Complex

Boxercise Water Aerobics

Fitness Circuit High-Intensity Training

PAGE 8 TORRES SHIRE COUNCIL ANNUAL REPORT 2015 - 2016

THURSDAY ISLAND

Thursday Island, also known as Waibene and central to the Archipeligo, is approx., 3.5 square kilometres. The administration centre of the Torres Shire is based on Thursday Island.

After almost 40 years of administration by a State Government Administrator the Torres Shire Council was restored to elected Council status in March 1991 and is now administered by a mainstream local authority Council comprising a Mayor and four Councillors.

Torres Shire Council has established an Indigenous Land Use Agreement (ILUA) with the Kaurareg Traditional Owners on specific aspects of its development and is covered by Native Title.

All commercial activities and social services are generated from Thursday Island.

The majority of the business centre is located on Douglas Street where there are hotels, a motel, food takeaways, numerous retail shops including a chemist, newsagency, grocers and bakery, Council Chambers, Australia Post and agent for Commonwealth Bank of Australia, National Bank of Australia, Queensland Public Health Centre & Dental Clinic, Police Station, Court House, a hostel, taxi ranks and residences.

Other facilities of the Federal and State Governments maintaining services on Thursday Island include Immigration, Customs, Foreign Affairs & Trade, Fire & Rescue Services, Queensland Ambulance and the Federal Police. A joint Defence Force Base is situated at Hocking Point.

Several Churches are situated at the west end of Douglas Street, with a fully equipped General Hospital at the far end, staffed by professional medical and health personnel with the nursing staff quarters nearby. In emergency cases, patients are medivaced south and the Queensland Ambulance Service plays a major part in servicing the communities in the whole region.

The Thursday Island Cemetery is listed on the Australian Historic Register and a special section is dedicated to approx. 700 graves of Japanese pearl divers and Japanese residents.

Education facilities in the Torres Shire are provided at Our Lady of the Sacred Heart School, Tagai State Colleges - Primary Campus and Secondary Campus, Tagai TAFE and the Tagai State College, Horn Island Campus.

Frog Gully Community Garden Project

PAGE 9 HORN ISLAND

Horn Island, known as Ngurupai, is an area of 53 sq. kilometres, has the Airport, Quarry, Landfill and the Loggy Creek dam which is a major infrastructure supplying water to Horn, Hammond & Thursday Islands. The township of Wasaga has a general store, cafe, churches, hotel, motel and museum, a sports stadium and children’s play-ground, Police, Health and emergency services.

There are two wharves, one provides an interchange service between the Airport and Thursday Island with daily ferry and water-taxi services for visitors and local commuters, and the other is used as a public cargo and shipping wharf.

Wasaga Roads and Drainage Project Landfill Compactor Rebuild PRINCE OF WALES ISLAND

Prince of Wales Island, also known as Muralug is the largest island in the Torres Strait, with an area of 203 square kilometres. It is mainly the traditional lands of the Kaurareg people but also contains a number of leased and freehold areas. The population is approx. 90 residents with homes along the most popular beaches at Muralug, Country Woman’s Beach, and Long Beach. Residents commute to nearby Thursday Island by dinghies for work, shopping, medical and a school boat operates to transport children to the schools on Thursday Island. Torres Shire Council maintains landfill and roads along the populated areas.

Country Women’s Beach Dugong Story Falls INNER ISLANDS OF THE TORRES SHIRE • Goode Island has a decomissioned lighthouse, a World War II derelict command post and look-out stations

• Friday Island is popular for camping and picnics and is the base for this area’s largest cultured pearl farm

• Tuesday lslands group and Wednesday Island are uninhabitated islands nearby

PAGE 10 TORRES SHIRE COUNCIL ANNUAL REPORT 2015 - 2016

STRATEGIC DIRECTION

VISION To Lead, Provide & Facilitate

MISSION STATEMENT Torres Shire Council through community consultation will focus on the promotion of community values together with the improvement of the quality of lifestyle whilst ensuring efficiency of servicing and protection of the environment

GOALS Goals are identifiable long-term end results or outcomes which enable Council to achieve its Mission. Council has adopted the following goals:

• To develop an organisational environment that fosters fairness and honesty, high productivity and continual improvement in management and workplace practices. • To give optimum value for money. • To promote Council universally as being a professional and committed organisation dedicated to fulfilling the needs and expectations of the community. • To maintain excellent teamwork between the Community, Council and Staff. • To develop communication and consultation strategies to ensure a meaningful working partnership with all stakeholders.

OUR VALUES Council aims to generate an organisational environment based on openness, honesty and respect which will improve the management of people, systems and resources

Cr. Gabriel Bani, Cr. John Abednego, Mayor Vonda Malone, Deputy Mayor Yen Loban and Cr. Thomas Loban.

PAGE 11 PARTNERSHIPS

Skytrans in partnership with TSC

Council has developed working partnerships with key local organisations and government departments including:

• Australian Defence Force • Regional Council • Dept of Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Partnership • Dept of Immigration & Citizenship • Horn Island Residents & Ratepayers Association • Islanders Board of Industry & Service • Mura Kosker Sorority Inc • Muralug Community Association • My Pathway • Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council • Port Kennedy Association • Ports North • Queensland Police Service • Queensland Ambulance • Queensland Fire & Rescue Services • Queensland Health Department • Torres News • Torres Strait Island Regional Council • Torres Strait Regional Authority • Torres Strait Youth Sports & Recreation Association • Torres Strait Islanders Media Association Inc • Kaurareg Traditional Owners • TRAWQ Indigenous Corporation

PAGE 12 TORRES SHIRE COUNCIL ANNUAL REPORT 2015 - 2016

CONTACTING THE COUNCIL

ADMINISTRATION OFFICE Postal Business Location Contact Details Email Website Address Hours

P.O. Box 171 68 Douglas Street 9am to 4pm Ph (07) 4069 1336 [email protected]. www.torres.qld. Thursday Island Thursday Island Monday to Friday Fax (07) 4069 1835 gov.au gov.au Qld 4875

Facebook Link: https://www.facebook.com/Torres-Shire-Council-213724178961823/

LIBRARY Postal Business Location Contact Details Email Website Address Hours

10am to 6pm 121-125 P.O. Box 171 Monday to Friday Ph (07) 3077 9899 [email protected]. www.torres.qld. Douglas Street Thursday Island Fax (07) 4069 1983 gov.au gov.au Thursday Island Qld 4875 10am to 1pm Saturday

EMERGENCY AFTER HOURS

THURSDAY ISLAND & HORN ISLAND Mobile 0429 691 330

HORN ISLAND AIRPORT Mobile 0429 691 338

Elected Members and Corporate Staff

PAGE 13 REPORT FROM THE MAYOR My acknowledgement and respect to the traditional owners of the Kaiwalagal area, the Kaurareg people. The Torres Shire Council (TSC) embraces both the Aboriginal and the Torres Strait Islander cultures and is proud of its multicultural and vibrant community. The presentation of the 2015-2016 Torres Shire Council Annual Report provides the first opportunity for the new Council to report to the community and highlight its achievements in the short time it has been active. Coming into office in April 2016, 10 months into the year, means that many of these activities were initiated under the watch of the former Council and brought to fruition under the new council. The new Council is focussed on business stabilisation and continued improvement of the governance and accountability of the organisation to give our constituents confidence that the efficiency and sustainability of the TSC is paramount. I am profoundly grateful for the support of the community to elect me as the first female mayor, and our new councillors to represent them, and since our appointment I have proactively advocated to improve the quality and standard of service for all our residents and rate payers.

Relationship with Stakeholders These first months has also seen the strengthening of the processes and culture of good governance within the Council. This in-turn improves our capacity to engage and work more effectively with a wider range of stakeholders. Very productive working relationships have been forged with our community, within the Council and with State and Federal Ministries and Departments. I am confident that these strong relationships will lead to significantly improved services and quality of life for our community and families. I have also carefully attended to strengthening relationships with traditional owners through regular, ongoing and meaningful consultations. This is integral to progressing future positive development for our Shire as well as the protection of our environment.

Stronger Families Supporting stronger families is a primary focus of our Council and I am pleased to report that a strong working relationship has developed with the newly appointed Ministerial Champion Shannon Fentiman, Minister for Communities, Women and Youth, Minister for Child Safety and Minister for the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence. I wish to commend the Palaszczuk Government for this initiative which is supported by the Government Champion. I am working closely with relevant Ministers to explore enhanced service delivery that brings greater benefits to all community members. Discussions with Minister Fentiman have also focused on the upgrade and maintenance of playground facilities, particularly those that are owned by the State Government and within the current social housing areas of our community. The upgrade of these facilities is important for our children’s wellbeing as is establishing suitable playground facilities on Horn Island.

Horn Island Wasaga Village Roads and Drainage Project The Wasaga Village Roads and Drainage Project is delivered under the Torres Strait Major Infrastructure Program (MIP). The construction of Stage 2 of the Wasaga Roads and Drainage work was subcontracted to the TSC. The project offers improved roads to enable all year round community access and reduced levels of dust and stagnant water contributing to improved health outcomes. The stage 2 component of the project covers roads and stormwater infrastructure for the Wasaga Village and the construction of the Loggy Creek Pump Station building at Horn Island which serves the Horn Island and Thursday Island water supplies. The project has progressed well with TSC scheduled to complete these works prior by 30 December, 2016. Under MIP this project offers direct local employment outcomes with 3 TSC staff completing Certificate III in Water Industry Treatment and 7 staff undertaking Certificate III in Civil Plant Operations.

Prince of Wales Island Safe Landing Facility The new Council continues to actively advocate with both Federal and State Governments to commit to the joint development of a proposed Prince of Wales Island Safe Landing Facility which encompasses a jetty and boat ramp. This facility is needed for the safety of all and in particular for the safety of our children as they travel to and from school. A preliminary concept design has been developed which will support further discussions with the traditional owners and the community of

PAGE 14 TORRES SHIRE COUNCIL ANNUAL REPORT 2015 - 2016

Prince of Wales Island to ensure it meets the community’s needs. Council is also working with the Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) and other stakeholders to continue to look at real solutions to provide essential services such as water and power for the residents of Prince of Wales Island.

Thursday Island Frog Gully Community Garden The establishment of the TI Frog Gully Community Garden has progressed well. This initiative supported in partnership with My Pathways and Dirt World Girl has seen the Frog Gully area turned into a flourishing garden with garden beds growing a variety of garden kai kai. I would like to thank the My Pathways Ground Force Team for their immense contribution to enable this project to come into fruition for the health for our community. The garden is a place where community can grow good food and share their gardening knowledge and tips. Community members and families are encouraged to fully utilise this space as it is your community garden. Further discussions are in place to establish a reference group to oversee the operations of the garden as well as to collaborate with TAGAI School and other education and health providers to enhance the garden’s value in supporting the community’s wellbeing.

Economic Focus Our focus on economic growth and the support of the development of family businesses in our communities has led to renewed commitment to the establishment of the Tourism Information and Business Centre on Victoria Parade. Council acquired the old Ergon Energy site for tourism and economic growth purposes. This pivotal development will act as a tourism hub, allowing visitors to engage readily with a wide range of local businesses and providing opportunities for small family businesses to grow in tourism and other business areas. Council continues to negotiate with several external stakeholders to support this exciting opportunity for economic growth for our region. This work will position the Shire well to capture not only local Australian tourism and business market but also the very important and growing Asian markets.

Home ownership We recognise that local complex land management issues need to be dealt with as a matter of urgency to support our children’s right to live in our community. We are working closely with the Department of Aboriginal and Islander Partnerships (DATSIP) to address these issues associated with land tenure and home ownership which are particular to our Shire. Work in this area has included the conduct of robust exploration of how reserve land can be released to support our families home ownership opportunities for TRAWQ community (Tamwoy, Rosehill, Aplin, Waiben and Quarantine). This is of particular importance as we draw closer to the 60th Anniversary of TRAWQ in 2017. In addition work is progressing well with the Horn Island affordable Housing Project. Working with DATSIP we have seen the proposed land now remapped addressing native title issues. We now have a much clearer basis on which to continue with negotiations with the Minister for State Development, Minister for Natural Resources and Mines for the allocation of the rezoned land assigned for the housing development. TSC is also actively advocating for funding to support the housing redevelopment through National Partnership Agreement on Remote Indigenous Housing (NPARIH) so that affordable home ownership can be offered to families. Our focus on home ownership is about our next generation so they are able to remain in our communities and aspire to own their own home, at an affordable price.

Sustainability As a small and remote Shire we face many unique challenges. TSC is classified as a main stream council and not as an Indigenous council although Indigenous people represent 62% of our population. As such TSC in its current status is not eligible for additional State Government Financial Aid (SGFA) funding as provided to our neighbouring Indigenous councils. Our Council has a very limited rates revenue base, with rates accounting for only 6% of our budget. This highlights our need to proactively seek support from multiple external stakeholders to maintain standards of current services and establish new essential infrastructure for our communities across the Shire.

Conclusion I wish to thank my fellow council colleagues and the TSC Executive Team and staff for their collaboration since my appointment as Mayor. I also wish to conclude by acknowledging the contributions and foresight of the former council and its work and commitment over the past year. Cr Vonda Malone MAYOR

PAGE 15 MESSAGE FROM THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Welcome to the Torres Shire Council Annual Report 2015-2016. I acknowledge the Kaurareg People as the traditional owners of the Kaiwalagal islands on which Torres Shire Council administers local government responsibilities. It is with pleasure I report on the many achievements and accomplishments of the Torres Shire Council for the 2015/2016 respective year. I have truly enjoyed the challenges of being the Chief Executive Officer of Council, it has really been a rewarding experience over the past four years. The year has been very busy, yet a pleasing year for Torres Shire and as a team, we have kicked goals and made considerable achievements. The Queensland local government elections are held every four years, with an election held on Saturday, 19 March, 2016. As a result of the quadrennial elections, I wish to formally welcome and acknowledge the newly elected Mayor and respective Councillors for the 2016-2020 Term. Torres Shire Council’s first Indigenous female Mayor Vonda Malone was officially sworn into office on Friday, 8 April 2016 alongside two returning Councillors Yen Loban and John Abednego and two newly elected Councillors Gabriel Bani and Thomas Loban. The Post-election Meeting and Declaration of Office Ceremony was held in the Torres Shire Council Chambers on 68 Douglas Street, Thursday Island. On this occasion, the Declaration of Office, as prescribed under Section 169(2) of the Local Government Act 2009 was conducted by virtue of the authority vested in the Council’s Chief Executive Officer. Kaurareg Elder Wigness Seriat officially welcomed all present to witness the special occasion of the swearing in of the elected members into office and Bishop Mabo officially blessed the newly elected Mayor and Councillors.

I would like to also acknowledge the former Mayor Napau Pedro Stephen AM, Councillors Yen Loban, John Abednego, Allan Ketchell and Willie Wigness from the 2012-2016 term for their leadership and guidance during their term in office which concluded on Saturday 19 March 2016. Torres Shire Council has provided a variety of services additional to our general municipal services of ‘roads, rates and rubbish’ to our constituents and visitors alike, some of which I would like to report and reflect on:

Highlights of 2015/2016

National Achievement Awards Horn Island Airport was nominated for an excellence award for Small Regional Airport of the Year (Australia wide). The Airport was announced as the Award Winner for this category on 14 October 2015 alongside , Canberra and Darwin Airports. Being awarded the Small Regional Airport of Australia 2015 was a great achievement and placed the Torres Strait region on the map, a great outcome. Well done and Congratulations to the Horn Island Airport Staff of Torres Shire Council. The Horn Island World War 2 Conservation project also received national recognition during the year and received a Silver Award from the National Heritage Trust. This was a important project that enormously assisted with the preservation of several WW2 sites on Horn Island. Council commends Vanessa See Kee for her support and dedication behind this community conservation project.

Major Capital Works Projects During the year, Council planned to delivered a number of important community infrastructure projects as approved by Council at the Special Budget Meeting held on 10 July 2015, of which included: • Wasaga Roads and Drainage Stage 2 Project - $7M • Construction of the Thursday Island Cemetery Undertaker Office and Storage Shed • Design and Construction of the Douglas Street raised pedestrian crossing • Community consultations for the beautification program for Tamwoy, Rosehill, Waiben and Quarantine suburbs • Commencement of the Frog Gully Community Gardens Project • Installation of the Water Meters on Horn Island and Thursday Island • Resealing Works around the Shire • NDRRA Restoration Works

PAGE 16 TORRES SHIRE COUNCIL ANNUAL REPORT 2015 - 2016

Special Dignitaries, Visitors and Deputations - The Torres Strait and Northern Peninsular Area Region hosted the Prime Minister of Australia, The Honourable MP from the 23rd to 28th August 2015. On arrival at Horn Island Airport, respective leaders from Torres Shire Council, Torres Strait Island Regional Council, Torres Strait Regional Authority and the Kaurareg Elders officially welcome the Prime Minister at the Horn Island Airport Terminal. Council made representation to the Prime Minister in relation to Prince of Wales Island (POW) - Safe Landing Facility, Remote area taxation zone allowance and high cost of fuel in the Torres Strait, ‘One Boat’ Regional Governance and the National Partnership Agreement on Remote Indigenous Housing during this visit. Council made further representation to relevant state and federal politicians including Hon. Curtis Pitt MP Treasurer of Queensland and Minister for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Partnership, Hon. Mick de Brenni MP Minister for Housing and Public Works, Hon. Billy Gordon MP State Member for Cook, Hon. Warren Entsch MP Federal Member for Leichhardt and Senator Nigel Scullion MP Federal Minister for Indigenous Affairs.

Other special dignitaries hosted by Council were the Japanese Ambassador to Australia His Excellency, Mr. Sumio Kusaka, US Consul General Mr Hugo Llorens, Cairns Regional Council Mayor Cr. Bob Manning and the National Rugby League (NRL) Trophy Tour and special appearance by the Queensland Cowboys Captain Mr Johnathan Thurston.

Government Grants Commission Visit to the Shire - The Queensland Local Government Grants Commission (the Commission) visited the Torres Shire region from Tuesday 22 September to 25 September 2015. Torres Shire Council embraced the opportunity to meet with the Commission and raised important elements and factors contributing to the long term sustainability of the remote local governments with a small rate base. The Chair of the Commission Lyn McLaughlin along with Kevin Wormald - Commission Member and Brendan McNamara - Commission Member held the public hearing in the Torres Shire Council Chambers.

Councillors attended the 119th Local Government Association of Queensland Annual Conference held from 19 to 21 October 2015 at the Empire Theatre, Toowoomba. The Conference theme was ‘Taking Control of our own Destiny’ which reflected on both its proximity to the 2016 council elections and the broader economic and political environment in which we operate. Deputations were made to relevant Ministers and representation to the Indigenous Leaders Forum during the conference.

Recognise Journey to the Torres Strait - RECOGNISE is the campaign to recognise Torres Strait Island and Aboriginal Peoples in Australia highest legal document and to deal with the racial discrimination. Recognise took the Journey to Recognition to the Torres Strait Islands from Sunday February 21 to Saturday March 5, 2016. The Journey to Recognition is a national relay, stopping in every State and Territory to raise awareness of and support for constitutional recognition. The Journey began in May 2013 when AFL legend Michael Long took the symbolic first steps and since then supporters have walked, cycled, paddled and driven across the country hosting 319 events in collaboration with 239 communities. Torres Shire Council supported and assisted with the hosting of the launch of the Recognise Journey held at ANZAC Park, Thursday Island.

Australian Local Government Association General Assembly - The 2016 National General Assembly of Local government (ALGA), was held at the National Convention centre in Canberra between 19 and 22 June. The theme for 2016 was ‘Partners in an Innovative and Prosperous Australia’. Mayor, Councillors and CEO attended this year’s General Assembly.

I wish to extend my appreciation to the previous Mayor Napau Pedro Stephen AM and Councillors (Yen Loban, John Abednego, Allan Ketchell and Willie Wigness) for the 2012-2016 term, I acknowledge their leadership and good governance, I also welcome the newly elected Mayor Vonda Malone and returning/newly elected Councillors (Yen Loban, John Abednego, Gabriel Bani and Thomas Loban) for the new term 2016-2020, I look forward to working together to achieve the goals of Council and to continue to provide quality services to our island communities within our financial constraints.

I also wish to thank the Directors and Management, Staff of Torres Shire Council for their contribution and performance within our organisation, your efforts are highly valuable and appreciated.

Koeyma Eso, Au Esoau

Mrs. Dalassa Yorkston CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

PAGE 17 OUR COUNCILLORS July 2015 – March 2016 Mayor Napau Pedro Stephen, Deputy Mayor Cr. Yen Loban, Cr. John Abednego, Cr. Allan Ketchell, Cr. Willie Wigness April 2016 – June 2016 Mayor Vonda Malone

Deputy Mayor - Cr. Yen Loban

Portfolio for Economic Development, Commercial Enterprises (Airport and Quarry) Commerce and Industry, Audit Committee

Firstly I would like to extend my appreciation and thank the community for entrusting me to be your councillor for a second term 2016-2020. Being on Council from 2012 until now, I have gained more knowledge and understanding on how the government system works and how to negotiate and work hard to see outcomes. I am committed and will continue to stay focused on advocating on your behalf. I thank my fellow elected member for re-elected me to the position of Deputy Mayor for this second term in Council.

Progress has been made on securing governing commitment to build the Prince of Wales Safe Landing Facility as well as funding for Prince of Wales Island to deliver a Water Bore Project. The Horn Island Affordable Housing development will remain a priority to ensure that more housing is available in our communities. Council has commenced the progress of developing the Horn Island Airport Master Plan which will cater for the future of this important community infrastructure.

I welcome the newly elected colleagues’ and look forward to continue to represent the community through my extensive networks over the next four years.

Cr. John Abednego

Portfolio for Arts and Culture, Youth Sport and Recreation, Social Policy, Community Events

I acknowledge the traditional owners, the Kaurareg Nation elders past, present and future. I appreciate and extend my sincere appreciation to the people of Torres Shire for supporting me in being your local government representative. I pledge to serve the community who have placed me in the position as your elected member for this new term from 2016-2020.

During this current term, Council has been working hard to ensure that services are provided and community continue to see development around the island. In my portfolio, we have celebrated the Torres Shire Shake Down Multicultural Festival as well as hosting our wonderful Garden Fair both at ANZAC Park, Douglas Street, Thursday Island.

The Frog Gully Community Gardens project has progressed very well since the concept which was officially launched at the 2014 Annual Garden Fair, there has been great work completed by the local people through Council and My Pathways.

Phase two of the community beautification project planned for the TRAWQ communities has commenced and Council is now activity seeking funding to make these projects come to fruition.

Torres Shire Council will continue to lead, provide and facilitate best practice and good governance in delivering our local government responsibilities.

PAGE 18 TORRES SHIRE COUNCIL ANNUAL REPORT 2015 - 2016

OUR COUNCILLORS

Cr. Gabriel Bani

Portfolio - Tourism Including Tourist Enhancements and Facilities, Tourist Industry Liaison Tourism Steering Committee and Indigenous Advisory Committee.

Ngay Wagadagamulayg, Koedal awgadhlig, baydhamaw zugub a Kuki gubalayg - I am a tribal elder for Wagadagam. My tribal totem is the Crocodile. My tribal wind is the Northwest Wind. My tribal constellation is the Shark.

It is with utmost respect I wish to thank all the families and community members for supporting me at the recent local government election held on 19 March 2016.

I look forward to working together with the traditional owners (Kaurareg Nation) of our beautiful islands, and with other government and non-government agencies, and with clan and tribal family groups, to maintain our unique island home.

My initial aim has been to ‘scan the landscape’, strengthen current tourism networks and establish clear processes to include the aspirations of traditional land property owners and empower the community.

Some ground work have been commenced in preparation for the proposed Torres Strait tourism information and business centre on Victoria Parade, this will be an important facility to assist in developing our tourism industry. I look forward to actively participating in both the Tourism Steering Committee and the Indigenous Advisory Committee for this term.

Koeyma Eso

Cr. Thomas Loban

Portfolio for Arts & Culture, Youth Sport & Recreation, Social Policy including, but not confined to, Community Events, Cultural Promotion, Youth Affairs & Youth Council, Sporting Amenities, Social Issues, Memorandums of Understanding and Partnerships with Community Organizations.

A mina big esso to the people of Torres Shire for your overwhelming support towards my nomination as a candidate for the 2016 Quadrennial local government elections. As a newly elected member of the 2016-2020 Term, I have given my commitment to serve the community to the best of my ability. In the first 12 weeks of our appointment as elected members, we have been provided with the Councillor Induction Training and Elected Members Update Training to assist us in understanding more clearly our roles and responsibilities to execute our local government legislative requirements. This has been extremely beneficial.

As the Portfolio holder for Arts & Culture, Youth Sport & Recreation, Social Policy I will represent the community from a grass roots level. In my term as your elected leader, I will aspire to guide our local people into meaningful training and employment opportunities and to empower our local people and industry.

I look forward to working together with my fellow elected members, the Council Executive Team and the local communities to provide further development of our island home.

PAGE 19 COUNCILLORS’ PORTFOLIOS April 2016 – June 2016

Mayor Vonda Malone – portfolio for Corporate Governance and Regional Relations/Partnership, Native Title including, but not confined to, Audit & Finance, Budget, Legislation, Inter-Government Relations, Regional Governance/Self- Determination, also Cape Indigenous Mayors’ Alliance (CIMA).”

Mobile: 0439 752 226 email: [email protected]

Cr Yen Loban - Deputy Mayor portfolio for Economic Development including, but not confined to, Commercial Enterprises (Airport and Quarry) Commerce and Industry, Audit Committee

Mobile: 0409 586 059 Email: [email protected]

Cr. John Abednego portfolio shared with Cr. Yen Loban

Planning Development and Environment including but not confined to, Town Planning, Housing, Land Use, Native Title, Ports, Rosehill Ramp, Town Beautification, Cemetery and Community Security

Mobile: 0409 482 382 Email: [email protected]

Cr. Thomas Loban portfolio shared with Cr. Gabriel Bani

Arts & Culture, Youth Sport & Recreation, Social Policy including, but not confined to, Community Events, Cultural Promotion, Youth Affairs & Youth Council, Sporting Amenities, Social Issues, Memorandums of Understanding and Partnerships with Community Organisations

Mobile: 0439 448 636 Email: [email protected]

Cr. Gabriel Bani portfolio shared with Cr. Thomas Loban

Tourism including Tourist Enhancements and Facilities, Tourist Industry Liaison also Torres Shire Tourism Steering Committee

Mobile: 0439 791 044 Email: [email protected]

Allocation of Councillors to Advisory Committees Mayor Vonda Malone, Cr. Thomas Loban shared with Indigenous Advisory Committee Cr. Gabriel Bani and Cr. John Abednego Mayor Vonda Malone and Cr. Gabriel Bani shared with Tourism Steering Committee Cr. Thomas Loban Council of Elders Committee Mayor Vonda Malone and Cr. Thomas Loban Ngurupai Sports Complex Committee Deputy Mayor Yen Loban Kaurareg Traditional Owners Advisory Committee Mayor Vonda Malone and Deputy Mayor Yen Loban Disaster Management Committee Mayor Vonda Malone and Deputy Mayor Yen Loban Mayor Vonda Malone and Deputy Mayor Yen Loban Internal Audit Committee and an External Community Member

PAGE 20 TORRES SHIRE COUNCIL ANNUAL REPORT 2015 - 2016

ADVISORY COMMITTEES July 2015 – March 2016 Internal Finance and Audit Committee Mayor Napau Pedro Stephen AM, Cr. Yen Loban & Cr. Allan Ketchell Council of Elders Committee Cr. John Abednego Torres Strait Disaster Management Committee Mayor Napau Pedro Stephen AM Torres Shire Indigenous Advisory Committee Cr. John Abednego Kaurareg Traditional Owners Advisory Committee Mayor Napau Pedro Stephen AM & all Councillors Ngurupai Sports Complex Committee Cr. Yen Loban Torres Shire Tourism Steering Committee Mayor Napau Pedro Stephen AM

External Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) – MOU Mayor Napau Pedro Stephen AM, Cr. Yen Loban & Cr. Allan Ketchell Torres Strait Island Regional Council (TSIRC) Mayor Napau Pedro Stephen AM & all Councillors Northern Peninsula Area Regional Mayor Napau Pedro Stephen AM & all Councillors Council (NPARC) Cape Indigenous Mayors Alliance (CIMA) Mayor Napau Pedro Stephen AM

Council Membership Member of the Australian Local Government Association (ALGA) Member of Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ) Member of Cape York Mayor’s Alliance (CIMA)

Agreements Indigenous Land Use Agreement with the Kaurareg Traditional Owners

April 2016 – June 2016 Internal Internal Audit Committee Mayor Vonda Malone, Cr. Yen Loban and an external Community member Council of Elders Committee Mayor Vonda Malone, Cr. Thomas Loban Torres Strait Disaster Management Committee Mayor Vonda Malone, Cr. Yen Loban Torres Shire Indigenous Advisory Committee Mayor Vonda Malone, Cr. Thomas Loban shared with Cr. Gabriel Bani and Cr. John Abednego Kaurareg Traditional Owners Advisory Committee Mayor Vonda Malone, Cr. Yen Loban Ngurupai Sports Complex Committee Cr. Yen Loban Torres Shire Tourism Steering Committee Mayor Vonda Malone, Cr. Gabriel Bani shared with Cr. Thomas Loban

External Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) – MOU Mayor Vonda Malone, Cr. Yen Loban Torres Strait Island Regional Council (TSIRC) and Mayor Vonda Malone & all Councillors Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council (NPARC) Cape Indigenous Mayors Alliance (CIMA) Mayor Vonda Malone, Cr. Yen Loban

PAGE 21 COUNCILLORS REMUNERATION

On 10 December 2014, the Local Government Remuneration and Discipline Tribunal Report 2014 provided to the Honourable David Crisafulli MP, Minister for Local Government, Community Recovery and Resilience.

The remuneration schedule was published in the Queensland Government Gazette Vol. 367, No. 74 on 5 December 2014. The Remuneration Schedule published in the Report applied from 1 July 2015.

As result of its deliberations the Tribunal has decided to:

• maintain 10 categories of Councils, albeit that no Councils are assigned to Category 1, Category 2 or the Special Category; • increase the maximum remuneration levels previously determined for each category of Council, by 2.3% from 1 July 2015; and • restructure the method of remunerating Category 3 councillors (that is, not including mayors and deputy mayors) to comprise a base rate of two thirds of the determination amount with the remaining one third to be paid as meeting fees reflecting attendance at, and participation in, each of the twelve mandated Council meetings each year. • In making its determination the Tribunal had considered the following facts and circumstances: • the CPI increase for Brisbane (2.6%) and the weighted average for the eight capital cities (2.3%) for the year ended 30 September 2014 • the wages policy of the Queensland Government (2.2% per annum) • movement in the wage price index in Queensland for 2013-2014 of 2.6% for all industries and 2.6% for the public sector • increases in average weekly ordinary time earnings (AWOTE) in Queensland for 2013-2014 of 1.1% for all industries and 2.4% for the public sector • the decision of the (federal) Remuneration Tribunal not to increase the remuneration levels of Members of Federal Parliament for the financial year 2014-2015 • the approximate 21% increase granted to State MLA’s from 1 July 2014 • the continuing, and in some cases increasing, financial pressures being experienced by many Councils • community expectations as represented in submissions made to the Tribunal.

Categories of Local Government The Tribunal had decided to maintain 10 Categories of Council notwithstanding that there are no Councils presently assigned to Category 1, Category 2 or the Special Category. In making this decision the Tribunal is aware that the continuation of those Categories in the remuneration schedule provides some reference point for Councils which, because of their individual circumstance, might decide a lesser rate of remuneration, pursuant to section 247 of the Regulation, than that determined by the Tribunal. In accordance with its statutory obligations the Tribunal proposes to undertake a major review, in the second half of 2015, of the number of Categories of Council and the assignment of individual Councils to a Category.

The Tribunal had decided to increase the maximum level of remuneration for all councillors (including mayors and deputy mayors) by 2.3% from 1 July 2015.

PAGE 22 TORRES SHIRE COUNCIL ANNUAL REPORT 2015 - 2016

Notes to the remuneration schedule Note 1 - The monetary amounts shown are per annum figures. If an elected representative onlyserves for part of a full year (that is, 1 July to 30 June) they are only entitled to a pro-rata payment to reflect the portion of the year served.

Note 2 - For councillors in Category 3 Councils, a base payment of $32,562 is payable for the 12 months commencing on 1 July 2015. A meeting fee of $1,356.66 is payable for attendance at each of the 12 mandated monthly meetings of Council subject to certification by the mayor and/or chief executive officer of the Council. Mayors and deputy mayors in Category 3 Councils are to receive the full annual remuneration level shown.

Torres Shire Council accepted and adopted the remuneration schedule as set by the Local Government Remuneration and Discipline Tribunal at the 15 March 2015 Ordinary Council Meeting.

Local Government Area Mayor Deputy Mayor Councillor Category

Torres Shire Council $97,684 $56,356 $48,842 Category 3

Newly Elected Council Swearing in Ceremony – 8th April 2016 Cr. Thomas Loban, Cr. Gabriel Bani, Mayor Vonda Malone, Cr. John Abednego and Deputy Mayor Yen Loban.

PAGE 23 COUNCIL MEETINGS ATTENDANCES BY MAYOR AND COUNCILLORS

July 2015 to March 2016 TOTAL NUMBER OF MEETINGS 12 Attended Apology No Apology Mayor Napau Pedro Stephen AM 12 - - Deputy Mayor Yen Loban 12 - - Cr. John Abednego 10 2 - Cr. Allan Ketchell 12 - - Cr. Willie Wigness 11 - 1

April 2015 to June 2016 TOTAL NUMBER OF MEETINGS 4 Attended Apology No Apology Mayor Vonda Malone 4 - - Deputy Mayor Yen Loban 3 1 - Cr. John Abednego 4 - - Cr. Gabriel Bani 4 - - Cr. Thomas Loban 4 - -

Ordinary (O) Mayor Pedro Cr. Yen Cr. John Cr. Allan Cr. Willie Date Special (S) Stephen Loban Abednego Ketchell Wigness

2015 10 July S * * * * * 21 July O * * * * * 18 August O * * * * * 15 September O * * * * * 27 October O * * * * * 17 November O * * x * # 8 December O * * * * * 8 December O * * * * *

2016 19 January O * x * * * 29 January S * * x * # 16 February O * * x * x 15 March O * * * * x

Ordinary (O) Mayor Vonda Cr. Yen Cr. John Cr. Gabriel Cr. Thomas Date Special (S) Malone Loban Abednego Bani Loban

8 April Post Election * * * * *

19 April O * * * * * 17 May O * * * * *

28 June O * * * * *

Note: * Attended x Apology received # No Apology

PAGE 24 TORRES SHIRE COUNCIL ANNUAL REPORT 2015 - 2016

EXECUTIVE MANAGEMENT TEAM

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Mrs Dalassa Yorkston

Director Engineering & Infrastructure Services Director Corporate & Community Services Mr William Cuthbertson Mr Andrew Brown

Regulatory Manager Manager Engineering Services Ms Diana Russell Mr Keith Yorkston

Manager Community Services Mr Michael Zitha

Executive Secretary Ms Nola Ward Page

PAGE 25 ORGANISATIONAL CHART

COMMUNITY

COUNCIL

CHEIF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

EXECUTIVE SECRETARY

Council meeting CONSULTANTS (Agenda & Minutes) Mayor & Councillor Support DIRECTOR - CORPORATE & DIRECTOR - ENGINEERING & Human Resources & COMMUNITY SERVICES INFASTRUCTURE SERVICES Recruitment Workplace Relations & Performance Financial management & planning, Plant & fleet management Management reporting & compliance Asset management Organisational Asset financial management Airport management development Budget preparation & monitoring Quarry management Workplace Health and Rates & Accounts & Grants Roads infrastructure maintenance Safety Insurance, auditing (internal & Roads, drainage & footpath Project Management external), fraud and risk construction Local Government management Roads & drainage management Finance registers & business services Street lighting Information technology Water supply, storage, treatment, & Records management delivery and maintenance Information Privacy Waste water operations & treatment Right to Information Waste disposal & recycling Customer Services Infrastructure support Purchasing and supply Depots & plant workshops Shire library & facilities Parks & gardens development (Housing, sports & halls) & maintenance Tourism & Youth Recreational reserves Community engagement Boat ramps Event support Private works Cemeteries & public facilities Planning & Regulatory Services management (including IDAS, Native Title and Planning Scheme)

PAGE 26 TORRES SHIRE COUNCIL ANNUAL REPORT 2015 - 2016

CORPORATE GOVERNANCE

Corporate Governance encompasses all the arrangements through which an organisation directs and controls itself and the people associated with it. The principles of corporate governance provides the framework for the way Council does business.

Fundamental to good corporate governance is leadership, accountability, transparency, quality disclosure, probity, being participatory, efficiency and effectiveness. Combined, these factors are instrumental in developing quality services for the community and encouraging trust in our actions.

Policies & Procedures Fundamental to consistency in the way Council does business is the setting by Council of clear policies and procedures to formulate sound and coordinated decision making by all in the organisation.

Code of Conduct There were no breaches or alleged breaches of Councillor’s Code of Conduct during the year 2015/16.

Strategic Leadership The Executive Management Team comprising of the Chief Executive Officer, Director of Corporate and Community Services and Director Engineering and Infrastructure Services meet on a weekly basis to set the strategic direction of the organisation.

General Complaints Process Council has a general complaints process for resolving complaints received from affected persons in respect of an administrative action of Council or an alleged minor breach of Council’s Code of Conduct by a Councillor. No complaints were lodged in 2015/16.

Accountability for Senior Officers The Chief Executive Officer and the two Directors are employed under fixed term performance based contracts of employment. Included in the contracts are strict values and performance measures to ensure considerable transparency and accountability.

Right to Information (RTI) Council encourages the sharing of information via avenues other than formal Freedom of Information procedure held by Council. Wherever possible, Council attempts to provide information upon request as a matter of course without the need to submit a formal RTI application. Council received one (1) application for RTI during 2015/16.

Ombudsman No issues were submitted from the Ombudsman to Council during 2015/16.

Finance and Audit Committee Council’s Finance and Audit Committee met during the financial year to consider reports presented by staff and external auditors.

Equal Employment Opportunities (EEO) Council supports and practices EEO principles and has an EEO Management Plan for this purpose.

Council Meetings Council Ordinary meetings were held on the third Tuesday of each month (except for the month of December when it was held on the second Tuesday of the month) commenced at 9am and are open to the public. Council also received community deputations to attend Council Meetings in 2015/16

PAGE 27 Record of Deputations for 2015-2016

Council Ordinary Meeting Deputation by

27 October 2015 Qld Police Service – Inspector David Lacey & Sgt Jamie Horn

Recognise Campaign – Mark Yettica-Paulson, Emma Cotter, 8 December 2015 Kenny Bedford ‘Torres Strait Journey to Recognition’

15 March 2016 Torres Patrol Group – Inspector David Lacey

28 June 2016 TSC Asset & Services Management Plan – Mr Dennis Kirby

Delegation Register Council’s Delegation Register records the delegated levels of authority and instruments of authority held by all Council officers and is reviewed annually. The current delegations have provided Council officers with the ability to conduct their day-to-day operations in a more efficient and effective manner.

Contract Management Tendering procedures are utilised in accordance with legislative requirements and designed to ensure that Council delivers the best value, with the least risk to the community. Council’s Procurement Policy and Tendering Policy ensures the highest levels of open accountability are adhered to.

Changes to Tenders There were no relevant actions under Section 177 (7) of the Local Government Act 2009 (Changes to Tenders) during the year.

Tenders and Expressions of Interest

Closing Date Number Details

22 July 2015 04/15 Bitumen Seal Works 2015

2 June 2016 01/16 Waste Transport Services

New Residents With the regular changeover of people within the Shire, Council encourages residents to obtain information at the Council Office on the many services and facilities provided.

PAGE 28 TORRES SHIRE COUNCIL ANNUAL REPORT 2015 - 2016

Communication Links in the Community • Corporate Plan 2014-2018 • Corporate Objectives and Strategies • Annual Operational Plans • Report on Progress Against Corporate and Operational Plans • Annual Budget • Annual Report - Records progress on delivering Corporate Plan objectives • Monthly Council Meetings • Independent Annual Audit - by the Queensland Audit Office • Finance & Audit Committee • Public Access - Audit Reports and Council Minutes are publicly available. • Torres Strait Regional Plan • Community Plan • Financial Plan – 10 Year • Report on the Annual Review of the Implementation of the Long Term Plans • Risk Management Plan • Annual Return on Community Engagement • Annual Return on Governance

Revenue Policy Council’s revenue raising activities are governed by the Revenue Policy was adopted at the Budget Meeting held in 10 July 2015. The policy provides details on how rates are levied and explains the differential rating system that more fairly shares the burden of rates including the different categories. All water, sewerage, and waste charges are based on the policy, as well as special levies, rate remissions, payments, discounts and private works. Copies of the Revenue Policy are available at www.torres.qld. gov.au

List of Registers Council maintains a list of registers that are available on request. These include:

LG Act Section Name on register 248 Register of Interests of a Councillor* 433 Register of Electoral Gifts 472 Register of Delegations by Local Government 895 Register of Local Laws 921 Map and Register of Roads 975 Register of General Charges 1132 Register of Delegations by the CEO 1140 Register of Interests or Persons Related to a Councillor This register pertains to the personal interests of all Councillors and Executive Staff. In addition, a register of personal gifts is also maintained to record gifts to Councillors and staff.

PAGE 29 STATISTICS & OTHER INFORMATION

Shire Roads

Council Controlled Roads - Km State Controlled Roads - Km

Thursday Island 22.233

Horn Island 24.679 Thursday Island 4.76 Prince of Wales Island 9.440

Goode Island & mainland area 19.100

Parks and Recreation Number of public toilets - 7 Number of playgrounds - 5 Council is trustee for 45 reserves for 13 different purposes across 10 islands and on Cape York The total area is 6,420.5536 hectares

ANIMAL MANAGEMENT Dogs and Cats All dogs and cats over three (3) months of age must be registered annually.

Dogs - It is unlawful to keep an unspayed female or male dog unless the owner has paid a higher registration fee. Only two dogs are permitted on any property without Council approval, otherwise an annual permit fee applies for additional dogs. If a dog is found to be roaming in public places without being on a lead, it may be impounded and charges will apply before the animal is released to the owner. Cats - Only two cats are permitted on any property.

To register your dog or cat, please contact Torres Shire Council during business hours. Torres Shire Council provides regular veterinary visits to Thursday and Horn Islands – dates of visits are available from Council Reception and are advertised.

Euthanased Animals Veterinarian Visits 2015/16 Cats - feral 112 No. of No. of animals Number of Total seen Date of Visit animals having other Dogs – surrendered 33 Consultations by Vet desexed surgery

Impounded and Released 24-26 Sept 2015 13 3 1 17 Dogs 13 26-28 Nov 2015 32 8 2 42 4-6 Feb 2016 24 6 2 32 Animal Comlaints 7-9 April 2016 20 7 2 29 Barking & aggressive dogs 11 9-11 June 2016 16 5 3 24 Straying & excessive numbers 12 The Council provides a regular visiting vet service including surgery facilities. Cats 12 The Animal Control Officer is licensed to euthanase animals when necessary.

PAGE 30 TORRES SHIRE COUNCIL ANNUAL REPORT 2015 - 2016

COMMUNITY SNAPSHOTS 2015/16 AUSTRALIA DAY CELEBRATIONS 2016

PAGE 31 COMMUNITY SNAPSHOTS 2015/16 GET READY EVENT

TRADITIONAL SAILING CANOE OF THE POLYNESIAN VOYAGING SOCIETY VISIT JULY 2015

PAGE 32 TORRES SHIRE COUNCIL ANNUAL REPORT 2015 - 2016

COMMUNITY SNAPSHOTS 2015/16 REGIONAL NAIDOC AWARDS EVENING 2015

PAGE 33 COMMUNITY FINANCIAL REPORT

Financial Health Check as at 30 June 2016 Highlighting the Torres Shire Council Financial Health Assessment

Financial Snapshot (Year Ended 30th June 2016) Actual (000’s) Operating Revenue $15,342 Operating Expenditure (Including Non-Cash Items) $19,560 Non-Cash Items $4,415 Capital Revenue $4,189 Capital Expenditure on projects $4,824 Loan Repayments $254 Transfers to (from) Reserves $1,543 Council Position at 30 June 2016 ($70) Budget Council Deficit Position at 30 June 2016 ($1,328) Forecast Council Position at 30 June 2017 $ 30 FINANCIAL HEALTH INDICATORS

Ability to pay Ability to pay (Current Ratio) (Debt Service Cover Ratio)

Minimum Target Bills Debts Minimum Target is 1.00 is >3

Self Shire’s Actual Shire’s Actual Performance is 8.00 Suff iciency Performance is 13.62

Do we measure up? Yes Do we measure up? Yes

Ability to Cover Costs through Own Revenue (Own source revenue coverage ratio)

Minimum Target is 40%

Shire’s Actual Performance is 62.38%

Do we measure up? Yes

PAGE 34 TORRES SHIRE COUNCIL ANNUAL REPORT 2015 - 2016

COMMUNITY FINANCIAL REPORT

How are we tracking against our actual targets?

Operating Surplus Ratio A measure of the Shire’s ability to cover its operational costs including depreciation and have funds left over to cover capital expenditure (including principal loan repayments) without relying on debt or reserves.

Minimum Target Range is 0 - 10%

Shire’s Actual Performance is -27.49%

Do we meet the target? No • The Council does not meet the operating surplus ratio due to the following:

• Council can not fund the cover of yearly Depreciation of $4,415,000 without Government Funding. The majority of the assets created have been government grant funded. Council has no capacity to fund this level of depreciation.

• The state government impact imposed on Council becoming a non-indigenous Council for funding purposes resulted in Council losing in excess of $1,500,000 in funding which supported recurrent expenditure. This amount has gradually risen due to inflation pressures and Council is now solely reliant on grant income to remain out of deficit. However there are few grants available for operating expenses. Council has and is continuing to lobby Federal and State governments to resolve this funding issue and reinstating this contribution to Council so that appropriate levels of employment can be maintained. This is not the only activity being undertaken as Council is also trying to further develop business units so that funds can be applied to overall operations.

Asset Sustainability Ratio Measures if the Shire is replacing or renewing existing non-financial assets at a linear rate that its overall asset stock is wearing out. Wear and tear of assets requiring renewal is not linear and will occur in greater amounts in some years than others. A significant portion of Assets are funded by grants. The renewal of these assets is also funded by grants which would reduce the target down significantly.

Minimum Target • The reduction in renewal expenditure varies Range is 90% from year to year as replacement or renewal is dependent on size and condition of asset being renewed. The $1.5M increase in the budgeted depreciation charge has had a two-fold effect on the asset sustainability ratio resulting in Shire’s Actual a decrease of the ratio below the target. Performance is 7.02% • Council will ensure expenditure on capital renewal is maintained at a level to maintain working capacity assets, however expenditure Do we meet the target? No is not on a linear basis. The majority of Council assets are grant funded with subsequent renewal grant funded therefore it is not possible to fund the depreciation.

PAGE 35 COMMUNITY FINANCIAL REPORT

Sources of Revenue Where our money comes from… Total revenue of $19,531,034 was received during 2015/16 year and consisted of Operating Revenue (including rates, charges and grants) of $15,342,655, Capital Revenue (including grants & contributions) and Capital income of $4,188,379. Categories of revenue are shown in the graph below. Capital grant revenue rolled into 2016/17 financial year was $1,543,000.

Operating Expenditure Where our money is spent… Operating expenditure of $19,601,437 was incurred during 2015/16 and the categories of expenditure are as shown in the graph.

Capital Additions and Improvements 2015/16 Council incurred expenditure of $4,824,000 on capital additions and improvements during 2015/16. This expenditure included building upgrades, road works construction, water upgrades including smart meters, upgrades to the Ken Brown Oval Stands and club facility, Beautification – Douglas Street, Wasaga Roads and Drainage, Footpath and Road Crossings as well as Fleet Replacement.

PAGE 36 TORRES SHIRE COUNCIL ANNUAL REPORT 2015 - 2016

COMMUNITY FINANCIAL REPORT

Debt levels

• Only borrow loan monies for new, or upgrade to, major capital assets and to repay those loans prior to the end of the useful life of the asset.

• Ensure that Council’s total commitment in respect of loan redemption (principal and interest) shall not annually exceed 30% of its total anticipated annual income from rates and utility charges and the Financial Assistant Grant.

Actual Principal Outstanding 30 June 2016 = $896k Budget Principal Outstanding at 30 June 2016 = $897k Actual Net Debt Ratio = 13.62

Do we meet the target? Yes

Debt Ceiling Redemption 30% of Rates & Utility charges and Financial Assistance Grant income pursuant to Policy ($7,322k x 30%) = $2,197k

PAGE 37 COMMUNITY FINANCIAL REPORT

Sources of Revenue Where our money comes from… Financial Position as at 30 June 2016 Council’s net worth (what Council owns, less what it owes) is known as Total Community Equity and at the end of the year was $165,122,000 represented by Council’s total assets of $171,879,000 less its total liabilities of $6,757,000. Categories of Assets are as shown in the graph.

Loan Borrowings The balance of Council’s loan borrowings as at 30 June 2016 was $896,000 down by $254,000 from prior years.

Community Grants No Council cash grant was given to any community organisation during 2015-16. However, Council supported several community events through the provision of operational resources including labour, plant and facilities.

Changes / Improvements to Council’s Financial and Assets Management During 2015/16 the following financial management practices were improved and pursued by Council:

• Development of Enterprise Resource Planning System – MAGIQ.

• Development of purchasing and inventory processes.

• Monthly review of budget against actual revenue and expenses, Council’s liquidity and cash positions, accounts receivable levels, and capital works program.

• Creation of and amendment to various policies as required under the Local Government Act 2009 and Local Government Regulation 2012. New policies being : • Risk Management Policy • Fraud policy • Non Current Asset Policy • Asset Management Strategy Policy • Related Party disclosure Policy

• Council undertook an independent index based valuation of its land, buildings and infrastructure assets.

PAGE 38 TORRES SHIRE COUNCIL ANNUAL REPORT 2015 - 2016

COMMUNITY FINANCIAL REPORT TORRES SHIRE COUNCIL SUSTAINABILITY RATIOS 2016 TO 2027 Section 178 of the Local Government Regulation 2012 Financial sustainability statements:

The annual report for a financial year must state:

(1) A local government’s current-year financial sustainability statement must state the relevant measures of financial sustainability for the financial year to which the statement relates.

(2) A local government’s long-term financial sustainability statement must state:

(a) the relevant measures of financial sustainability for the 9 financial years following the year to which the statement relates; and

(b) an explanation of the local government’s financial management strategy that is consistent with the long-term financial forecast.

Sustainability of Council In common with many other small local governments, particularly indigenous Councils, Torres Shire is unable to obtain substantial funding from rating. It is therefore heavily dependent on receiving funding from the State and Federal Governments.

Generally, all major new capital projects must receive a substantial proportion of external funding to be viable. This capital funding is reflected in the financial projectionsas Capital Revenue.

Whilst Council has income to meet its normal functions, it is also heavily reliant on external funding for additional functions. Apart from the Commonwealth Financial Assistance Grant, the funding available is normally highly specific. If such funding becomes available, and Council does not have to outlay a substantial additional amount, Council will provide additional services. Because the nature of the services to be funded cannot be predicted, neither this funding, nor the corresponding expenditure is included in the projections.

The projections show that Council cannot guarantee to continue to provide appropriate services with known and predictable funding sources. Council will endeavor to maintain a healthy bank balance to ensure that it is financially resilient and able to cope with the impact of unexpected events. However increasing operating deficits to provide the minimum level of service and product standard are proving to be increasingly strained with the operating deficit required to be covered by Capital income to create a breakeven scenario for Council.

Part of Council plans for the future is to modernize where possible Council’s fleet plant. This will enable Council to carry out works more efficiently and will limit increases in repair and maintenance costs. Further emphasis is being directed towards services/products that will produce a return to fund operating costs. A three percent increase in general rates equates to $30,000.

PAGE 39 COMMUNITY FINANCIAL REPORT TORRES SHIRE COUNCIL FINANCIAL OUTLOOK 2016-2027

Operating Surplus Revenue An indicator of the extent to which revenues raised cover operational expenses only or are available for capital funding purposes or other purposes.

This chart shows that the costs to Council for its day-to day operations are planned to increase slowly over the ten year period. This is purely the effect of inflation on costs. It is expected that the income will, in the long term, also keep pace with inflation. Due to Council’s low rate base, it is unsustainable for rates revenue to fund Council’s operations. The balance of Total revenue less Total expenditure is available for capital projects or used to offset any past or future deficits. However where a deficit exists than this amount of deficit reduces the depreciation amount that has been funded. This reduced amount is what is available for Capital expenditure works.

There will undoubtedly be new funding for new activities but neither the income nor the expense has been included in the budget as they cannot be determined at the time of budget preparation.

PAGE 40 TORRES SHIRE COUNCIL ANNUAL REPORT 2015 - 2016

COMMUNITY FINANCIAL REPORT

Cash Balances The orange line on the chart, shows anticipated cash balances. Much of this cash is held to meet specific obligations, for example grants for future works. Some of it is held as a buffer against unforeseen financial needs in the future. The cash balance is generally an average of $10m, depending on the particular situation with grants and expenses at the time.

The blue line represents the amount Council has borrowed for capital expenditure. This debt is generally reduced over the period as it is paid.

The green line represents the net position of cash less debt. Because the debt is very small in relation to the cash this line closely follows the cash line.

Net Finance Asset/Liabilities Ratio This is an indicator of the extent to which the net financial liabilities of Council can be serviced by its operating revenue.

The orange line is the current ratio. This shows the extent to which current assets (includes cash, accounts receivable, and inventories) cover current liabilities (debts that need to be paid within 12 months).

The blue line shows the number of months expenses can be paid out of the cash held by Council. This means that Council has the financial capacity to pay its creditors when payments fall due.

The green line shows the proportion of operating revenue used to pay interest. This remains about 2% of operating revenue. Council’s policy is to maintain debt repayments below 30% of the rates revenue. In 2015-16, debt repayment ($254,000) was 22.11% of rates revenue ($1,148,874). It peaks in 2021 when all current debts are repaid.

PAGE 41 COMMUNITY FINANCIAL REPORT

Asset Sustainability Ratio Approximations of the extent to which the infrastructure assets managed by Council are being replaced as these reach the end of their useful lives.

The orange line shows the amount spent each year on capital assets. The blue line shows the annual charge for depreciation, which represents the extent Council is using up its assets. The gap between the two is the amount Council is expanding its asset base. Council is making substantial new commitments to asset construction with external funding, where available. The replacement or renewal of these assets will be largely funded by grant funds so Council does not fund depreciation for these assets.

Remuneration to Senior Staff Section 201 Local Government Act 2009

(1) The annual report of a local government must state:

(a) the total remuneration packages that are payable (in the year to which the annual report relates) to senior contract employees; and (b) the number of senior contract employees who are being paid each of the total remuneration packages.

(2) A senior contract employee is:

(a) the chief executive officer; or (b) any other local government employee who is employed:

(i) on a contractual basis; and (ii) in a position that reports directly to the chief executive officer

3 senior contract employees with a total remuneration package in the range of $100,000- $200,000

Internal Audit Section 190 (1) (h) of the Local Government Regulation states that:

The annual report for the financial year must contain the report of the internal audit for the year.

Council had a number of Internal Audit Meetings during 2015/16. An internal audit Charter and Plan for 2015/16 was adopted by Council. The Audit Objective in accordance with the Act was as follows:

PAGE 42 TORRES SHIRE COUNCIL ANNUAL REPORT 2015 - 2016

Audit objective To determine whether Council is effectively complying with the legislative requirements under the Local Government Act and related regulations formulated under the Act and relevant best practice guidelines.

Scope of Audit Review the control framework in respect of risk management, financial compliance, other stipulations relating to legal, regulatory and asset management to assess the adequacy and effectiveness of Council’s policies and procedures pertaining to the following:

• Risk Management and Risk Assessment

• Financial Controls

• Contracts and Procurement

• Asset Management

An internal audit function helps Council to accomplish its objectives by bringing a systematic, disciplined approach to evaluate and improve effectiveness or risk management, control and governance processes in relation to:

• Effectiveness and efficiency of operations

• Reliability and integrity of financial and operational information

• Safeguarding of assets

• Compliance with laws, regulations and contracts

An internal audit was conducted by Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ) on behalf of Council using the identified risk areas for 2015-16. The internal Audit report is available at Council Administration Office Douglas Street for review. In summary the internal audit result was largely positive with additional information being required by internal auditor to finalise some assessments.

APPENDICES 43. Appendix 1 - Financial Statements 86. Appendix 2 - Independent Auditor’s Report 88. Appendix 3 - Current Year Financial Sustainability Report 90. Appendix 4 - Current Year Financial Audit Report 92. Appendix 5 - Long Term Financial Sustainability Statement

APPENDIX 1 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

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PAGE 85 APPENDIX 2 INDEPENDENT AUDITOR’S REPORT

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PAGE 87 APPENDIX 3 CURRENT YEAR FINANCIAL SUSTAINABILITY REPORT

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PAGE 89 APPENDIX 4 CURRENT YEAR FINANCIAL AUDITOR’S REPORT

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PAGE 91 APPENDIX 5 LONG TERM FINANCIAL SUSTAINABILITY STATEMENT

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PAGE 95 TORRES SHIRE COUNCIL TORRES SHIRE COUNCIL - Annual Report 2015 to 2016

ANNUAL REPORT | 2015 to 2016 To lead, provide & facilitate