I am extremely proud to see the growth that has occurred in our Shire. What an incredible year it has been, with so many major projects proposed, underway or completed.

On behalf of the Glenelg Shire Council, it is my pleasure to present the Annual Report of the Glenelg Shire Council for A broad range of new and existing industries and the 2007/08 financial year. This Annual Report highlights businesses are considering a number of exciting many Council achievements during the past 12 months. development initiatives for our Shire.

I am extremely proud to see the growth that has occurred in our Shire. What an incredible year it has been, with so many major projects proposed, underway or completed. The allocation of funds across the entire operations of the Glenelg Shire requires much planning and deliberation - from A broad range of new and existing industries and building our roads, planning for our future development, businesses are considering a number of exciting protecting our environment, securing our economic viability development initiatives for our Shire. to supporting community spirit and enhancing our total way of life. This achievement is a testament to the hard work of Important strategic planning projects included: our Councillors and staff. • Portland Bay Coastal Infrastructure Plan • Municipal Public Health Plan In recent years the Council has proactively addressed many • Glenelg River Foreshore Master Plan issues and we will continue to boldly face future challenges. • Positive Ageing Strategy Providing solutions to these challenges will be rewarding and • Youth Strategy lead to developing important objectives and projects. • Disability Action Plan 2006-2008 • General Local Law 2008 • Casterton Saleyards Business Plan • Domestic Animal Management Plan

The Council is always mindful of the responsibility vested in us to spend the Shire’s funds wisely for the maximum benefit of the community.

The Council looks forward to working with the Federal and State Governments, business, industry, community organisations, residents and volunteers in a consultative partnership for the betterment of the whole Shire.

glenelg shire annual report 07-08 1 On behalf of the Council and the community, I extend This has been a year of planning for the future, working my sincere thanks to all our volunteers for their efforts with our community to provide relevant services and during the year. consolidating the strong position of the Shire. The 2007/08 Annual Report outlines the activities undertaken and Every year we reflect on the vital contribution the many outcomes achieved to meet the strategic objectives of volunteers who serve our community so well make. Glenelg Shire Council. Many generous people give so much of their time, hard work and expertise to keep us safe and enrich our FINANCIAL POSITION community. Throughout the year, Glenelg Shire Council consolidated its strong financial position. In the 2007/08 financial year we During my Mayoral term I have been greatly assisted by achieved: my fellow Councillors who are dedicated to achieving • an operating surplus of $2.739 million the expectations and needs of residents, businesses • our target of reducing loan debts to $2.4 million and visitors in all areas of our large Shire. • delivery of a $8.799 million capital works program which focuses on renewing our one quarter of a billion dollars I also thank Mayoress Aileen, the Council’s Chief of assets Executive Officer, Mr Stuart Burdack, as well as the • planning targets for new infrastructure to support our senior management team and staff for their considerable diverse community support, guidance, assistance and advice throughout the year. A number of independent reviews of the financial position of the Council confirmed that we have a sound financial basis I am honoured to serve as Mayor for the people of our for the future. The independent Strategy Plus Report again Shire. The role brings many pressures and challenges, concluded that the Glenelg Shire was the most financially but is also very rewarding. sustainable large Shire in Victoria and that our average rates are amongst the lowest in the State. We commend our community’s commitment, passion and pride in our Shire and gratefully acknowledge our citizens’ considerable efforts.

Cr Geoff White Mayor

2 glenelg shire annual report 07-08 rich in history and diverse in landscape

We have focused on ensuring we are listening to, planning with and supporting the range of valuable organisations and groups within the community

WORKING WITH THE COMMUNITY The Council is proactive in ensuring our citizens have input into decision making processes. Numerous town meetings We have focused on ensuring we are listening to, planning including the Casterton Saleyards Business Plan meeting with and supporting the range of valuable organisations and and the Heywood Police Station Residence meeting groups within the community. Major projects include: highlighted active citizen participation. • developing the Casterton Saleyards Business Plan which provides a blueprint for its future It is pleasing to see good attendances at our Council • gaining broad community support of Portland Bay meetings indicating an interest and desire to participate in Coastal Infrastructure Plan the democratic decision making process of our Council. • making significant progress on the planning of Portland’s Children’s and Family Complex ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT • advocating strongly on issues regarding rail freight and transport as we prepare for the blue gum timber harvest Over the past 12 months, the Council has developed a • continuing support of our townships with community range of important and significant economic development planning opportunities. We continue to work closely with industries associated with the blue gum timber harvest and visited the GOVERNANCE Albany region of Western Australia to review impacts of the timber industry. The Council, together with the invaluable support from our Audit Committee, continues to review and evaluate our We have considerable interest from a range of businesses internal policies, practices and operations. This continuous connected with the timber industry seeking to commence improvement program ensures that services remain relevant operations in the Shire and the Port of Portland continues to and responsive to our citizens while providing good value for upgrade facilities to accommodate an anticipated trebling of money. woodchip exports.

To reflect best practice and value, in particular we have: The Council has continued to lobby for and work with other • conducted major reviews of our information technology levels of government with respect to planning for improved back up and implementation strategy freight task movements within our region and there is • reviewed contract management and procurement continued interest in our Shire for a range of renewable practices and guidelines energy sources. • reviewed cash handling practices and payroll operations

glenelg shire annual report 07-08 3 commitment, passion and pride

ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURE I would like to acknowledge and thank the In February 2008, a restructure of our organisation was implemented to provide four departments which include: outgoing Councillors for their commitment to • Asset and Infrastructure Department - plans and their role for the Glenelg Shire. maintains our quarter of a billion dollars of infrastructure • Community Development Department - supports and works in partnership with the hundreds of community This report also reflects on the many activities and inputs organisations and groups within the Shire that we have undertaken as an organisation to achieve • Corporate Services Department – provides governance our goals of: and operational services to our organisation • quality engagement with our citizens • Planning and Economic Development Department • strong teamwork - focuses on the important issues of land use planning • providing accountable leadership and facilitating economic development within the Shire • being a progressive and modern organisation

The Annual Report presents a record of achievements With general council elections planned for November and continued commitment from the Council to providing 2008, I would like to acknowledge and thank the outgoing responsive, relevant and cost effective services to the Councillors for their commitment to their role for the citizens of the Glenelg Shire. Glenelg Shire.

I also acknowledge and thank the Glenelg Shire Council staff for their commitment and dedication to their work.

I welcome feedback on the performance of Glenelg Shire Council for the 2007/08 financial year.

Stuart Burdack Chief Executive Of!cer

4 glenelg shire annual report 07-08 The natural beauty of the Shire features expansive beaches, scenic and rugged coast, large national parks and extensive wildlife.

OUR REGION Population: 19,758 Strategically located between Adelaide and Melbourne in (ABS LGA Pop. Stats. as at 30 June 2006) Victoria’s South West, the Glenelg Shire region services a large hinterland including the south east of South Area: 6,212 square kilometres Australia, south west Victoria and the Wimmera Mallee. Number of employees: 199 (EFT) The Glenelg Shire is an ideal location for business and Rateable properties: 13,680 (30/06/08) industry offering an extensive interstate and local road Rate revenue: $16,710m (30/06/08) network, including the Princes and Henty Highways, and access to the national standard rail network. Total revenue: $34,385m

Municipal charge: $Nil (30/06/08) The Shire’s largest city, Portland, has a deep water Garbage charge per $141.50 (2007/08) international port that is a major shipping hub for the rateable property: south west of Victoria, the Wimmera Mallee and the south east of South Australia. Length of sealed 1,108 kilometres local roads: Taking our name from the mighty Glenelg River which Length of unsealed 1,523 kilometres flows from the Grampians through to Nelson on local roads: Victoria’s Discovery Coast, the Glenelg Shire embraces Bridges and 205 an area of approximately 6,212 square kilometres. major culverts: The majestic Glenelg River was named after British Administrator, Lord Glenelg in the 1830s.

The natural beauty of the Shire features expansive beaches, scenic and rugged coast, large national parks, extensive wildlife and provides the western access to the world renowned Great Ocean Road.

glenelg shire annual report 07-08 5 The Glenelg Shire is proud to be Victoria’s birthplace for the first permanent European settlement and is also equally proud to be part of the traditional land of

the Gunditjmara and Bunganditj people and their rich indigenous history.

OUR HISTORY TODAY The Glenelg Shire is in the traditional lands of the With a total population of over 19,750, the Glenelg Shire indigenous Gunditjmara and Bunganditj people. includes the City of Portland, Townships of Heywood and Casterton and many small townships and localities. In 1800 Lieutenant James Grant was the first European to chart of Victoria’s south western coastline. From his The Glenelg Shire features a diverse range of strategic ship ‘Lady Nelson’ he sighted and named Portland advantages including: Bay after the English Secretary of State, the Duke of • considerable water reserves in deep aquifers Portland. • ocean currents suitable for generating electricity by wave energy Grant was followed in 1802 by the French explorer • geothermal energy reserves and reticulation system Captain Nicholas Baudin but it was Captain Matthew • one of regional Victoria’s best airports, with daily Flinders who provided suitable navigation charts. flights to and from Melbourne and aircraft maintenance facilities In 1829 William Dutton established a shore based • access to the South Eastern Australia Pty. Ltd gas whaling industry in Portland Bay. pipeline carrying gas from the Port Campbell gas fields to Adelaide Edward Henty and his brothers established Victoria’s first • a deep-water sea port between Adelaide and permanent settlement by Europeans and turned the first Melbourne piece of soil on 6 December 1834. Primarily farmers, • access to the standard gauge national rail network the Henty family also had a share in the whale industry. • wind velocities suitable for generating electricity from wind power The Hentys commenced Victoria’s agricultural • access to the interstate electricity network between development and explored far inland to establish various South Australia and Victoria thriving sheep and cattle stations. In time exploration and settlement extended into the Heywood, Dartmoor and Casterton areas.

The Glenelg Shire is proud to be Victoria’s birthplace for the first permanent European settlement and is also equally proud to be part of the traditional land of the Gunditjmara and Bunganditj people and their rich indigenous history.

6 glenelg shire annual report 07-08 ideal location for business and industry

We have a vibrant and diverse commercial and industrial sector including: • primary production – predominantly cattle, sheep and dairy • significant hardwood and softwood timber plantations, predominantly pine and blue-gums with timber processing facilities at Heywood and Portland • Portland Aluminium - the largest aluminium smelter in the southern hemisphere and an acknowledged world leader in environmental sustainability and best practice operation. • one of the deepest international ports in southern Australia, with a fast access time from the southern sea-lanes • Victoria’s largest commercial fishing fleet which supplies the majority of fish to the Victorian market • a large mariculture facility supplying abalone to national and international markets • boutique industries – wine, gourmet food, orchards, horticulture, retail

OUR FUTURE The Shire offers a great lifestyle combined with growing • working with companies who are considering opportunities for employment, recreation, education and establishing multi million dollar timber related cultural activities. industries in the Shire including a wood chip mill at Myamyn The Council continues to concentrate and capitalise on • promoting development in the Portland-Heywood its strategic positioning as the major shipping hub for industrial corridor south west Victoria. The Port of Portland is undergoing a staged major expansion to accommodate forecast The Green Triangle Regional Committee and timber increases in export/import activities. plantation companies estimate the timber industry in the region will create 1,000 direct positions and up to 1,000 We are focussed on developing opportunities for downstream employment opportunities during the next business, community and tourism, including: five years. • considering various locations for a diverse range of multi million dollar developments The State Government and the Council view Heywood • facilitating the Cape Bridgewater and Cape Nelson as a strategic location to establish pulp and wood chip sections of the Portland Wind Energy Project, one of mills. Together with the State Government, we will the largest in Victoria continue to advocate establishing timber and associated industries in the Shire with particular focus on Heywood.

glenelg shire annual report 07-08 7 CR. GEOFF WHITE CR. TOM MUNRO CR. KAREN STEPHENS Flinders Riding Mitchell Riding Gilmore Riding Elected: 27 November 2004 Elected: 27 November 2004 Elected: 27 November 2004 Retires: 29 November 2008 Retires: 29 November 2008 Retires: 29 November 2008

CR. GILBERT WILSON CR. NEIL KERR CR. ROBERT HALLIDAY Henty Riding Cobboboonee Riding Grant Riding Elected: 27 November 2004 Elected: 27 November 2004 Elected: 27 November 2004 Retires: 29 November 2008 Retires: 29 November 2008 Retires: 29 November 2008

CR. FRANK ZEIGLER CR. JOY BENBOW CR. BILL MCINTYRE Fawthrop Riding Mt. Clay Riding Dutton Riding Elected: 27 November 2004 Elected: 27 November 2004 Elected: 27 November 2004 Retires: 29 November 2008 Retires: 29 November 2008 Retires: 29 November 2008

8 glenelg shire annual report 07-08 The primary objective of a Council is to achieve the best outcomes for the local

community having regard to both the long term and cumulative effects of decisions.

LEGISLATIVE FRAMEWORK Constitutional Recognition of Local Government The Victorian Constitution recognises local government as a distinct and essential tier of government consisting of democratically elected Councils having the functions and powers the Parliament considers are necessary to ensure the peace, order and good government of Victoria’s 79 municipalities.

Role of Local Government in Victoria The Victorian Local Government Act 1989 contains a Preamble that describes the place of local government in the Australian system of local government. In addition the Act includes a Charter that describes the purpose of local government, how it is constituted, the objectives of a Council, the role of a Council; the functions of a Council and the powers of a Council.

Objectives of Local Government Role of Council The Act specifies that the primary objective of a Council The Act also specifies the role of Councils as: is to achieve the best outcomes for the local community • acting as a representative government by taking into having regard to both the long term and cumulative account the diverse needs of the local community in effects of decisions. In meeting this objective the decision making Council must have regard to: • providing leadership by establishing strategic • promote the social, economic and environmental objectives and monitoring their achievement viability and sustainability of the municipality • maintaining the viability of the Council by ensuring • ensure that resources are used efficiently and that resources are managed in a responsible and effectively and services are provided in accordance accountable manner with the Best Value Principles to best meet the needs • advocating the interests of the local communities to of the local community other communities and governments • improve the overall quality of life of people in the local • acting as a responsible partner in government by community taking into account the needs of other communities • promote appropriate business and employment • fostering community cohesion and encouraging opportunities active participation in civic life • ensure that services and facilities provided by the Council are accessible and equitable Functions and Powers of Council • ensure the equitable imposition of rates and charges The Act also specifies that a Council has the range of • ensure transparency and accountability in Council powers contained in the Act. decision making

glenelg shire annual report 07-08 9 On 29 November 2008, seven Councillors will be elected in an un-subdivided municipality whereby proportional

representation will now apply for the first time. professional approach to elections

Electoral Representation Reviews Council Electoral Structure Every eight years, Council is required to undertake a The Glenelg Shire is divided into nine Ridings, with an public review of its electoral structure to determine: elected Councillor representing each Riding. • whether the number of Councillors and the electoral structure provides a fair and equitable representation The last Council election was held on the 27 November for the persons who are entitled to vote at a general 2004 and all Councillors will retire on the 29 November election of the Council 2008. • whether the number of voters represented by each Councillor is within 10 per cent of the average Commencing in November 2008, all Council elections number of voters per Councillor for the whole in Victoria will be held simultaneously every four years municipality on the last Saturday in November with each Councillor serving a fixed four year term. The Minister for Local Government appointed the Victorian Electoral Commission to undertake an electoral On 29 November 2008, seven Councillors will be representation review of the Glenelg Shire on the elected in an un-subdivided municipality whereby 11 July 2007. The Review was completed on the proportional representation will now apply for the 1 October 2007 and the Minister for Local Government first time. accepted the VEC recommendations. In summary, the proportional voting system will replace the preferential The Mayor is elected annually by Councillors at the voting system and the nine single member ridings will be Statutory Meeting of Council. Cr Geoff White is the replaced with seven Councillors being elected from an current Mayor. un-subdivided municipality. The Review outcomes will apply to the November 2008 Council Election. A contract has been awarded to the Victorian Electoral Commission to provide independent election services for Council Function the 2008 Council Election to be held in November 2008. The VEC is recognised world wide for their professional The Council provides over 100 services to citizens of all approach to elections and their electoral management ages and at all stages of life throughout the Shire. and voting software. A comprehensive list of Council services is provided on page 47 of this Annual Report. In some cases, the services and facilities are delivered by the Council in partnership with the Federal and Victorian Governments.

10 glenelg shire annual report 07-08 To ensure public transparency and accountability,

the Council endeavours to consider most agenda items in the public section of Council Meetings.

Councillors Remuneration Council Meetings are conducted in accordance with the provisions contained in the Governance Local Law and In 2001, the State Government specified the maximum the Council’s Meeting Procedure. annual allowances that Councils can set for Mayors and Councillors based on categories determined During 2007/08 12 Ordinary Council Meetings, one according to their size and revenue base. The Glenelg Special Council Meeting and two Special Emergency Shire Council is classified as a category one Council. Council Meetings were held.

In 2007/08 Councillors were paid an allowance Nine Councillors complied with the statutory requirement of $12,000 and the Mayor received an allowance to submit pecuniary interest returns by 30 July 2008. of $36,000. Councillors were also provided with phone/fax/printing equipment, and were able to claim reimbursement for Council related expenses such as Councillor Council Meetings Leave of travel, accommodation, car parking and out of pocket Meetings Attended Absence Held granted expenses. The incumbent Mayor has full private use of a car. Cr White 15 15 0 Cr Wilson 15 15 0 Council Meetings Cr Stephens 15 15 0 Council Meetings were held on the fourth Tuesday of the Cr Munro 15 11 4 month at 7.00pm in the Council Chambers, Cliff Street, Cr Kerr 15 13 2 Portland unless otherwise advertised. Special Council Cr Halliday 15 14 1 Meetings were occasionally held for specific matters. Cr Zeigler 15 13 2

All Council and Special Council Meetings are advertised Cr McIntyre 15 14 1 and are generally open to the public. The Local Cr Benbow 15 13 2 Government Act enables the Council to close meetings for specified purposes. To ensure public transparency Note: These figures include Special Meetings and and accountability, the Council endeavours to consider Special Emergency Meetings most agenda items in the public section of Council Meetings.

glenelg shire annual report 07-08 11 teamwork, quality engagement, progressive, accountable

Stuart Burdack Chief Executive Officer Peter Gall Group Manager Assets and Infrastructure Syd Deam Group Manager Planning and Economic Development Trevor Hornby Group Manager Corporate Services

Adele Kenneally Group Manager Community Development

ORGANISATIONAL CHART

Chief Executive Officer

• Organisation Development (HR) • Communications • Executive Support

Planning & Corporate Community Assets & Economic Services Development Infrastructure Development

• Finance • Community Development • Asset Management • Statutory Planning • Records Management • Children’s & Family Services • Contracts (including • Strategic Planning • Governance Support • Recreation & Youth aquatic centres) • Tourism (VIC’s & • Rates/Valuations • Library Services • Construction Caravan Parks) & Maintenance • Customer Service • Aged & Disability • Economic Development • Design Services • Risk Management • Environmental Health • Business Liaison • Parks & Gardens & Support • Local Laws (contract) • Building Services • Children’s Crossings • Arts & Culture (including Art Collection) • Waste Management • Payroll • Maternal & Child Health & Saleyards • Information Technology (contract) • Airport • Cleaning • Quality Systems

Cross Functional Project Teams

12 glenelg shire annual report 07-08 We have important natural and cultural heritage assets to look after and need to ensure our citizens are provided with adequate

buildings, facilities and services.

CHALLENGES RECOGNITION OF LONG SERVING STAFF Our organisation is challenged by a rapidly changing This year 18 employees were recognised for service work environment and increasing expectations by our to the Shire including one employee with 25 years of citizens, other levels of government and organisations service and one with 30 years of service. The Council - people expect fast responses to their questions and acknowledges and greatly values the contribution staff requests. make to the organisation.

We need to plan for and manage significant future EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY challenges such as: (EEO) & CHARTER OF HUMAN RIGHTS & • climate change RESPONSIBILITIES • an ageing community that will require greater support The Council is committed to providing a workplace • the demands of a geographically large Shire free of all forms of discrimination and harassment. • diverse and widely spread communities It aims for equality of opportunity for all employees and is consistent with our policy of merit-based selection We have important natural and cultural heritage assets to and fairness. look after and need to ensure our citizens are provided with adequate buildings, facilities and services. This year most employees were required to participate in workshops to emphasise their responsibilities in It is important that the Council functions as a high relation to equal opportunity, discrimination, harassment performing organisation in order to meet these and bullying. Employees were also informed of their challenges and complexities. responsibilities regarding the Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities Act 2006. The Council’s employees are at the forefront of dealing with future challenges. Our human resources are an The Council has three trained contact officers and our asset and we support our staff to develop and grow by formal induction process for new employees emphasises encouraging participation in appropriate training and the importance of the policy and the commitment of the professional development opportunities and making Council to equal employment opportunity and human sound decisions. rights principles.

glenelg shire annual report 07-08 13 The new Environmental Sustainability Officer will provide specialist services and advice across a broad range of areas including climate change, biodiversity, water management, development management, air quality, coastal management and waste issues.

NEW POSITIONS WITHIN COUNCIL Cadet Planner Environmental Sustainability Officer To help address the shortage of local government Planners a Cadet Planner has been recruited. The The new Environmental Sustainability Officer will provide Cadet Planner will continue study for a tertiary specialist services and advice across a broad range qualification in planning while providing planning services of areas including climate change, biodiversity, water under the direction of our qualified planners. management, development management, air quality, coastal management and waste issues. Initially the role

will involve developing and implementing policies and Construction and Graduate Engineers strategies and in future will include grant management, A graduate Assistant Engineer and a replacement senior on ground project management and provision of Construction Engineer have been appointed to assist in sustainability related advice across the organisation and the delivery of a large infrastructure works program. to the wider community. Economic Development and Tourism Manager

Cadet Building Surveyor The organisational restructuring created the Planning The Council secured partial funding for a Cadet Building and Economic Development Department resulting in the Surveyor. This new position will assist in the delivery of appointment of an Economic Development and Tourism statutory building regulation services across the Shire. Manager. This role focuses on facilitating and promoting There is a shortage of building surveyors and building economic development by attracting new business inspectors in rural and regional areas and this role is part investment and assisting existing businesses throughout of succession planning. the Shire to maintain viability and sustainable growth and to create and promote tourism opportunities. Senior Statutory Planner

Progress has been made towards the appointment of Recreation Officer an overseas candidate for the role of Senior Statutory To assist in implementing the Recreation and Open Planner to complement the Planning Unit. In conjunction Space Plan a second Recreation Planner has been with the Warrnambool City Council, we are seeking appointed. Council recognises the importance of an overseas planner under the Regional Sponsored assisting the community in taking part in physical activity Migration Scheme. to increase the health and well-being of its residents. The main focus of the role is to work with the wider community, encouraging participation and assisting in gaining funding for activities.

14 glenelg shire annual report 07-08 EMPLOYEES BY OCCUPATION

DESIGNATED GROUPS 2003/04 2004/05 2005/06 2006/07 2007/08 (EFT) (EFT ) (EFT) (EFT) (EFT)

Managers & Administrators 5 5 5 6 5 Professionals 6.1 10 13 11.5 15 Associated Professionals 2 10.7 14 15.7 17 Tradespersons & Related 6 6.2 5 4 4 Advanced Clerical & Service 37.1 29 25.5 26.9 32 Intermediate Clerical 25 25.9 29.8 30.1 29.5 Labourers & Related 146.3 120.4 79.8 79.4 73.5 Other 8.7 11.4 18.1 23.8 23 Total 236.2 218.6 190.2 197.4 199

EMPLOYEES BY GENDER

Gender Full Time Part-time Casuals & Total (EFT) (EFT) Temporary (EFT) (EFT)

Male 98.8 4.3 5.8 108.9 Female 44.0 33.8 12.3 90.1 Total 142.8 38.1 18.1 199.0

The majority of part-time employees are in the Home Care, Home Respite, Home Maintenance, Childcare and Senior Citizens Adult Day Activity areas. As totals fluctuate due to a range of reasons, the best measure for staff composition is the number of Equivalent Full Time (EFT) staff.

glenelg shire annual report 07-08 15 The events acknowledged the valuable efforts our volunteers provide, in bringing continuous benefits for individuals and our community.

AUSTRALIA DAY CELEBRATIONS VOLUNTEERS WEEK Australia Day was celebrated on the 26 January 2008 The Council values the important role volunteers play in with well attended celebrations in Portland, Heywood the Shire. We acknowledge our communities are vibrant, and Casterton. Casterton hosted Australia Day active places due to the efforts of these dedicated people. Ambassador Brian Wenzel, and Portland and Heywood hosted acclaimed journalist and author Tony Wright. This year the Shire hosted a Volunteers Recognition Reception in Casterton, Heywood and Portland, to Mr Keith Wilson OAM of Portland was awarded the coincide with Volunteers Week from May 12 – 18. Glenelg Shire Citizen of the Year 2008 Award and 294 volunteers from 82 different organisations attended Mr Jackson Tozer of Portland was awarded the Glenelg the functions. The events acknowledged the valuable Shire Young Citizen of the Year 2008 Award, for their efforts our volunteers provide, in bringing continuous exceptional contribution to our local community. benefits for individuals and our community.

Six new Australian Citizens were conferred by the The Sustaining Volunteerism Initiative introduced a Mayor at the Portland Ceremony. Volunteer’s Tree. Volunteers wrote their messages about volunteering onto a leaf-shaped piece of paper were then AUSTRALIAN CITIZENSHIP attached to the tree. The vibrant and colourful trees were displayed in each Customer Service Centre as a tangible The Glenelg Shire Council takes pride in its new citizens. demonstration of the number of volunteers in our region. We recognise that the decision to become an Australian Messages from the tree were then removed and recorded Citizen is very important to each individual. Each year by the Sustaining Volunteerism Initiative. we welcome many new Citizens by hosting individual and group ceremonies. Becoming an Australian Citizen is an important way of showing pride in being part of ANZAC DAY COMMEMORATIONS Australia’s dynamic and diverse society. This year, Portland’s ANZAC Day floral display commemorated the 90th Anniversary of the recapture of In 2007/08 the Council welcomed 35 new Citizens into Villers-Bretonneux by Australian troops on 25 April 1918 the Shire from countries including: in WWI. The floral display has been a highlight of ANZAC • Fiji Day commemorations in Portland for 70 years. • New Zealand • Scotland Around 10,000 individual flowers were used to replicate the • South Africa Villers-Brettoneux logo which is proudly displayed by the • United Kingdom people of Villers-Bretonneux in recognition of the ANZAC • United States of America troops whose heroic actions heralded the end of the • Zimbabwe German advance of March-April 1918 in the Somme area.

16 glenelg shire annual report 07-08 RESCUE HELICOPTER • Casterton Child Care Action Group met regularly to develop strategies to raise community awareness As a strong supporter of the campaign for many years, and funds for the proposed Casterton Child & Family the Council is very pleased with the State Government Complex announcement to fund a community based, all weather, • Dartmoor Children’s Centre is actively involved in multi function emergency helicopter service for south the Smiles 4 Miles program, promoting healthy and west Victoria. hygiene through eating nutritious foods and drinking plenty of water This essential life saving ambulance and important • Inclusion Support program continues to build the search and rescue service will greatly benefit the south confidence and capacity of staff/care - providers west community. A total of over 20,000 signatures were to include children with all abilities and cultural collected during the lengthy campaign. backgrounds in the services program CHILDREN AND FAMILIES AGED AND DISABILITY The Council successfully achieved the following for local In partnership with the Federal and State Government, children’s and family services: the Council provides a diverse range of aged and • enrolments are at full capacity disability services across the Shire. The Council delivers • accreditation Status under the Quality Improvement the Home and Community Care (HACC) program and and Accreditation System for Family Day Care, identifies and works towards reducing and eliminating Mitchell Park Children’s Centre and Henry House Day gaps in service delivery within the Shire. Client Care Centre contributions are based on their ability to pay. • Mitchell Park Children’s Centre celebrated 20 years of operation • Glenelg based Early Years Network Group formed with the aim of strengthening local agency networks to ensure services delivery and positive outcomes for all children and families throughout the shire • major building renovations and upgrades completed to some buildings • Portland Child & Family Complex received $140,000 funding announcement from the Department of Planning and Community Development

glenelg shire annual report 07-08 17 designed to increase access to the community

L.I.F.E (Life is a Fulfilling Experience) In 2007/08 the HACC program achieved: The Council initiated a pilot program entitled L.I.F.E (Life • 61,911 hours of service - over 9% increase on last Is a Fulfilling Experience) for people in the community year suffering from a mental illness to increase their • assessment or reassessment of 735 clients – over participation in meaningful activities in a non-threatening 10% increase on last year environment. • improvements in the quality of lawn mowing and edge trimming with purchase of new improved The program offers participants activities tailored to equipment their age and preferences. The pilot group has already • introduction of spring mowing trial resulting in participated in music groups, woodwork and social increased client satisfaction outings. Each activity is designed to increase access to • HACC services brochure production and distribution the community and encourage full participation. to improve awareness of the HACC program • successful bid to provide assessment services Home & Community Care (HACC) for the entire Glenelg Shire leading to greater collaboration with other HACC service providers, a The program aims to increase client independence smooth pathway to services and a ‘one-stop shop’ and enables them to remain in their homes as long as for enquiries and assessment possible, reducing the pressure on hospitals and nursing

homes. The Council provides the following HACC ARTS AND CULTURE services: • planned activity group Capital Works • Meals on Wheels We received a Regional Infrastructure Development Fund • home modification (RIDF) Grant of $570,000 to support the implementation • property maintenance of capital works in the four main performance venues • respite care in the Shire. This grant supplements the $365,000 • home care committed by the Council. This funding allows for significant technical upgrades in these venues and the improvements will be beneficial for touring productions and numerous community events.

18 glenelg shire annual report 07-08 We conducted a survey of patrons in December 2007 which indicated a high level of satisfaction with the arts program content and delivery.

Arts Program LIBRARIES The Arts Program continues to provide a wide variety of Glenelg Libraries provides services across the Shire with high quality touring performances (41) at very reasonable achievements including: cost to audiences and a diverse array of exhibitions (13). • a continuing program for local arts exhibitions Standout events were ‘Possum Magic’, seen by 1200 recognised for innovation and excellence in school children, and the ‘Walk’ exhibition, which began community building and involves community artists a national tour in Portland. We conducted a survey and works of patrons in December 2007 which indicated a high • two travelling visits of artefacts and memorabilia level of satisfaction with the arts program content and presented by State Library of Victoria – delivery. Memories Victoria and the Travelling Treasures Roadshow Cultural Collection • a new “Environment” collection incorporating sustainability, water wise, conservation, There have been a number of major developments this recycling and other titles of current environmental year with respect to the cultural collection: concern. This collection was a cooperative purchase • the restored Admella plaque is now permanently on with the Portland Sustainability Group and a grant display in the Maritime Discovery Centre alongside from Portland Aluminium. the Portland lifeboat • development of Internet Literacy and Reading Literacy • we received a grant from Public Records Office to programs incorporating a range of activities and display ‘Our Shire, Our Past’ in the Casterton Town events designed to increase awareness and raise Hall community skills level in these areas • significant objects were donated to the cultural • a continuing program of children’s events and collection activities during school holidays and as part of • we have adopted a Conservation Management Plan regular story times at all library locations for Guns and Cannon • an increase of over 1,000 members across the Shire, • a volunteer group formed to assist with identifying with a 16.8% increase at the Heywood library. details in photographs from the Port of Portland • total loans of over 128,000 items for the year with Collection over 19% increase in Casterton loans The Arts Company • review of Outreach Services and design of an alternative cooperative solution which better We have appointed an Arts Program Coordinator at The caters for needs of isolated communities with Arts Company. We now offer a diverse program of arts decreasing populations workshops to the community on a regular basis. These • increased online help available through “Your Tutor” have been well received with many workshops proving to and “Computer Teacher” programs available from the be very popular. Libraries or from home

glenelg shire annual report 07-08 19 RECREATION Cycle Safe City Project The Council began action on the Recreation and Open Portland Aluminium generously provided $50,000 to Space Plan by implementing 27 recommendations of the assist in the completion the bicycle path link to St. Johns 198 scheduled over 10 years. Primary School in Trangmar Street, to develop a Cycle Safe City strategy plan and to purchase bike racks for Major achievements included the appointment the central business district, Portland. of a second Recreation Services Officer and the development of the Recreation e-News which enables The strategy will assist the Council, Schools, industry the Council to communicate more effectively with and our community to promote the benefits of cycling, community groups and organisations. increase cycling participation rates, improve existing cycle tracks and routes and establish guidelines for To encourage health and improved management of planning future tracks, trails and routes. clubs and organisations we presented the following new programs: Capital Projects • Have A Go Week Our application to the Victorian State Government for • Responsible Serving Of Alcohol Forums $41,564 to fund the resurfacing of the Casterton Netball/ • Strategic (Business) Planning Workshops in Portland Tennis Courts was successful. and Casterton • Walk to School Day We completed the following projects from successful • Funding Seminars funding applications with a total of $345,360: • Portland Bowling Club Water Wise Project - $27,694 All planning applications for new land sub-divisions are • Westerns Football Netball Clubrooms Extensions now assessed for open space connectivity within the - $46,666 proposed subdivision and with adjoining subdivisions • Alexandra Park Portland Irrigation System - $46,000 and neighbourhoods. • Sandford Recreation Reserve Water Harvesting System - $43,000 • Island Park Casterton Irrigation System - $46,000 • Heywood Recreation Reserve Irrigation System - $46,000 • Henty Park Portland Irrigation System - $46,000 • Tyrendarra Recreation Reserve Water Harvesting System - $44,000

20 glenelg shire annual report 07-08 provide financial support for young individuals

The strategy will assist the Council, Schools, industry and our community

to promote the benefits of cycling, increase cycling participation rates, improve existing cycle tracks and routes and establish guidelines for planning future tracks, trails and routes.

The Council supported the following projects from the Glenelg Junior Sports Trust Minor Recreation Projects Fund with a total of $38,275 The Glenelg Junior Sports Trust is funded by the Council allocated: to provide financial support for young individuals and • Portland Netball Association - erect safety fences at groups who are striving to achieve at regional, state, ends of netball courts - $2,000 national and occasionally at international level. • Casterton Polocrosse Club Inc. - complete Financial support was provided to the following groups: Polocrosse pavilion - $1,950 • Portland Hockey Club • Portland Hockey Club - install lights at the east end • Portland Swimming Club of Flinders Park - $3,325 • Portland Secondary Collage • Portland Little Athletics Centre - rebuild and upgrade • Heywood Consolidated School the triple jump pit and runways - $5,000 • Portland Calisthenics Club • Glenelg Pony Club Inc. - line floor, walls and ceilings, • North Portland Primary School install windows and doors in clubrooms - $5,000 School Holiday Program • Sandford Football Netball Club - reseed, super and soil oval - $1,000 The Council continued its working relationship with • Westerns Football Netball Club - pavilion extensions Portland YMCA and the Casterton Old Courthouse (Council commitment to Sport & Recreation Victoria) Community Centre in the delivery of holiday programs. - $5,000 Our community was also fortunate in having Scripture • Far Western District Swimming Assoc - promote of Union Family Mission (SUFM) return again for their New the Victorian Country Swimming Year holiday program. Championships - $5,000 • Portland Heywood Field & Game - purchase new automatic clay target trap - $2,295 • Merino Progress Association - purchase a ride on lawn mower - $949 • Casterton & District Netball Assoc - concreting around Pavilion at Island Park - $1,756 • Bolwarra Hall & Recreation Reserve COM - resurface two existing tennis courts - $5,000

glenelg shire annual report 07-08 21 The Council promotes an environment

where positive relationships with young people are encouraged and supported.

Pacific Hydro 2007 South West Games South West Academy Of Sport The Council hosted the 25th Anniversary South West The Council continues its successful partnership with Games and welcomed Pacific Hydro as the new games the South West Academy of Sport for the third year. naming sponsor. The Academy creates pathways between regional and state/national level participation for emerging regional A record 71 sporting events were registered. Of these athletes through training and education. These services two were cancelled due to the equine flu, two due to are also provided at no charge to regional coaches with inclement weather and two due to lack of entries. The the intent of providing a positive flow on effect to grass 65 events attracted 6,174 participants and approximately roots sports. 6,300 spectators over the four weeks.

The economic benefit to the Shire is estimated to be in excess of $237,000 based on Tourism Victoria’s ‘Domestic Overnight Visitor Expenditure in Victoria’ and the Australian Bureau of Statistics ‘the Australian Bureau of Tourism Research.’

2008 Victorian Country Swimming Championships The Far Western District Swimming Association Committee hosted the State Level Championship at the Portland Leisure and Aquatic Centre on the Australia Day weekend.

The economic benefit to the Shire is estimated to be in excess of $300,000 based on Tourism Victoria’s ‘Domestic Overnight Visitor Expenditure in Victoria’ and the Australian Bureau of Statistics ‘Australian Bureau of Tourism Research.’

22 glenelg shire annual report 07-08 encourage participation of young people

YOUTH Youth Participation And Access Program The Council promotes an environment where positive The Our PlaYce Youth Leadership Program for 2007/08 relationships with young people are encouraged and was launched in November 2007. The Our PlaYce supported. The Council is developing a Youth Strategy Program is a joint initiative of Moyne Shire Council, 2008-2012 to encourage young people to meaningfully Corangamite Shire Council, Warrnambool City Council, engage in their community, their Council and their future. Glenelg Shire Council, Youth Biz Hamilton and Terang Resources. The program has expanded to encourage A Project Steering Committee was formed to draft the participation of young people throughout the Shire. Youth Strategy and Action Plan and consultants engaged to conduct research and assist in strategy development. Stencil Art Project The strategy and plan aims to communicate Council’s Two professional Stencil Artists from Melbourne commitment to the delivery of Youth Services within the facilitated a two-day Stencil Art Workshop in June 2008. municipality. Twenty young emerging artists worked with the artists to develop their skills and produce vibrant artwork which The Council continued to provide a range of activities will be displayed in an exhibition in late 2008. and services to support young people aged 12 to 25 inclusive, including: Musical Equipment Grant

FReeZA With a grant of $10,000 from the Department of Planning and Community Development the Council purchased Glenelg Shire Youth Services worked collaboratively with music equipment for people less than 26 years of age to Secondary Colleges within the Shire to form FReeZA support their skills development and participation in the Youth Committees in Heywood, Portland and Casterton music industry. and develop the FReeZA in Schools program. Portland Secondary College Year 10 Personal Development class YMCA Drill Hall Agreement developed a Youth Music event as one of five FReeZA events held in 2007. The event was a resounding The Council entered into a cooperative licence success and attracted 200 young people. The FReeZA agreement with Portland YMCA to use the Portland Drill in Schools program was also trialled at Heywood and Hall to deliver their youth programs while still providing District Secondary College and Casterton Secondary access for existing user groups. College.

glenelg shire annual report 07-08 23 This is an excellent rate and

demonstrates the commitment by parents and guardians to ensure their children are effectively immunised.

HEALTH Childhood Immunisation Rates Improving Infants up to the age of four years of age receive a range of vaccinations to protect them from childhood infectious diseases.

These vaccinations start at birth and are administered at two, four, six, 12 and at 18 months, with the pre school vaccinations being administered at four years of age.

In the Shire there are different vaccination providers accessible to parents and guardians including local medical practitioners (GPs) and the Council’s Maternal and Child Health nurses.

As at 31 March 2008, the Australian Infant Immunisation Register reported the average immunisation rates within this Shire was 92.70%. This is an excellent rate and demonstrates the commitment by parents and guardians to ensure their children are effectively immunised.

12 – 15 months 24 -27 months 60 -63 months 72 -75 months Average for all months months months months age groups

89.09% 94.64% 93.10% 94.00% 92.70%

As well as providing 60% of all infant immunisations the Council coordinates the secondary school immunisation sessions. These vaccinations are administered in years seven, nine and 10.

24 glenelg shire annual report 07-08 actively pursue and attract funding opportunities

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Installation of interpretative signage completed the revitalisation project which has improved the visual The Council continued to actively pursue and attract appeal and amenities of the Village Green for locals State and Federal funding opportunities for the and visitors. Council, businesses, industries and community based organisations. The project enhances the existing Avenue of Honour tree carvings and helps promote Dartmoor as a unique Grant funded projects that were successfully completed tourist attraction. this financial year include:

Merino Renewal & Walking Track Project Portland Bay Coastal Infrastructure Plan Funded through a partnership between Regional The Council has adopted the Portland Bay Coastal Development Victoria, the Merino Progress Association, Infrastructure Plan. Funded through a partnership Glenelg Hopkins Catchment Management Authority, the between Regional Development Victoria, the Department Council and Portland Eco Trust, this project was officially of Sustainability and Environment and the Council, opened in February 2008. the plan provides the strategic direction to implement positive changes to the foreshore environment. It included extensive resurfacing of an 800 metre track along the Merino Creek which follows the designated old The Council prepared the plan with extensive community stock route – one of the oldest in Victoria and still in use. and stakeholder engagement and consultation. Along the track there is seating and photos from the past

which highlight significant sites and emphasise areas of Dartmoor Village Green Revitalisation Project interest to locals and visitors. Funded through a partnership between Regional Development Victoria, the Dartmoor and District The Council completed Landcare activities which Progress Association, the Council and Portland Eco included significant tree planting. The creation of the Trust, several large cypress trees in Dartmoor’s Village public artwork ‘The Drovers Nightmare’ aroused the Green were transformed into magnificent carvings most interest. - the largest being the now widely acclaimed Nursery Rhyme Tree.

The historic watering trough and flume used to draw water from natural springs in the early 19th Century has been restored. The area was landscaped, revegetated and a new BBQ installed with seating, tables and a shade shelter.

glenelg shire annual report 07-08 25 strong growth in visitation figures

To assist in community groups seeking funding, the Council also provided grant seeking booklets, advice, guidance, letters of support and assistance with grant seeking applications.

Dartmoor Quality Water Supply Nelson River Foreshore Master Plan

Upgrade Project The Council is working closely with the Nelson Reserves An elevated water storage standpipe to provide Committee of Management and representatives from appropriate pressure and security of supply to Dartmoor Regional Development Victoria on the implementation of in the event of power outages and fire related events is first stage priorities of this Plan. Portland Eco Trust has now available. The project will reduce pumping costs also agreed to a partnership arrangement. and greenhouses gases. Grant Seeking We facilitated the funding arrangements for Wannon To assist in community groups seeking funding, the Water on behalf of Regional Development Victoria. Council also provided grant seeking booklets, advice, guidance, letters of support and assistance with grant Grant funded projects that were in progress or being seeking applications. investigated this financial year included:

TOURISM Heywood Fitzroy River Precinct Community Grant Record Visitations To Shire’s Accredited Visitor Information Centres (VICs) Work continued on seeking funding for the Heywood Fitzroy River Precinct Community project involving the Enquiries and walk-in visitors to the three accredited construction of a footbridge, ramps and surrounds over Visitor Information Centres totalled 115,914. This is the the Fitzroy River to provide a pedestrian link between the highest number of visitors ever recorded through our reserves on each side. VICs and represents an overall increase of 8.2% for the Discovery Coast region. This strong growth in visitation Board walks and multiuse tracks will also be built. Other figures was achieved in an extremely competitive components of the project include the construction of domestic tourism environment. a ‘pioneer’ display shelter for historic log wagons, tools and associated timber milling memorabilia dating back to the 1860s. Landscaping, outdoor furniture and interpretive signage will also compliment the area.

The Council looks forward to the completion of this project in late 2008. Funding partners include Regional Development Victoria, Promoting Heywood Committee (which includes Wood, Wine & Roses) and the Portland Eco Trust.

26 glenelg shire annual report 07-08 Although Nelson recorded a decline in visitation of • hosted Channel 9 Getaway program during January, 10%, Casterton’s figures were steady with a growth which focused national attention on Blue Whale of 1.5%, and Portland experienced unprecedented watching opportunities in Portland and on Discovery growth of 16.2%. Bay, Nelson and the Lower Glenelg National Park for adventure tourism activities Portland’s visitation resulted from a strong summer • substantial Southern Right and Blue Whale watching period and importantly, a lengthening of visitation generated national attention patterns through to the traditional ‘off-peak’ season. • Herald Sun winter advertising • Destinations Magazine The winter marketing campaign registered growth of • Great Southern Tourist News 8% during the winter months and the visit of the Ocean • Western District Holiday News Patriot Oil Rig during January / February was a catalyst • Portland Visitor Guide to increased daytrip visitation from neighbouring regions. • Discovery Coast Touring Map Increased awareness of both blue whale and southern • Volcanoes Discovery Trail right whale watching opportunities also attracted visitors • increased involvement with Great Ocean Road to Portland. Marketing (GORM)- which promotes the region into key interstate markets in partnership with Portland’s results stand out in comparison to other Great Tourism Victoria Ocean Road VICs, where visitation trends have been • involvement in Tourism Australia’s new international static. Nelson’s result may be affected by the increasing marketing initiative: National Landscapes – Great repeat usage of the national park, with visitors not Ocean Road. necessarily using the VIC on their return visits. • Kanawinka Geopark - the Council is a founding municipal member of the Volcanoes Discovery Trail New Regional Marketing Initiatives committee, which as the Kanawinka Geopark Board & Achievements has just gained status for the region as Australia’s first Global Geopark. Niche marketing activities included: • continued to support the implementation of the • implemented Winter Marketing Campaign 2007 Lake Condah Sustainable Tourism Development Plan, • exhibited at Adelaide Caravan & Camping Show an exciting new and highly significant indigenous • continued promotion to Trade Travel Wholesalers tourism product. program – directly marketing the Discovery Coast to touring Probus Clubs nationally

glenelg shire annual report 07-08 27 Discovery Coast Events We look forward to continued business growth across the Shire and will provide assistance and support to Through the Discovery Coast tourism grant program, both established and new investors. the Council provided $40,000 of on-going support to 19 local community and tourism events and projects. Ocean Patriot Oil Rig The Shire’s ‘iconic’ tourism events continue to grow with the Casterton Kelpie Festival, Heywood’s Wood, Wine The Ocean Patriot Oil Rig berthed in the Port of & Roses Festival and the VIC Bream Classic Titles in Portland in January to undertake a $13 million routine Nelson recording strong attendances. Despite inclement survey, maintenance and refit. The visit had an weather, the Portland Bay Festival continues to cement enormous impact on the local economy with hundreds its place as a major tourism event for the region. of contractors staying in local accommodation and thousands of visitors flocking to Portland to see the BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT massive rig. The rig returned to exploration projects in Bass Strait in February. This service managed numerous enquiries and visits from investors, delivered business events and Committee for Portland information and enhanced the Council’s business communication methods. A significant majority of The Council gained State Government funding of enquiries were from the timber industry as a result of the $25,000 to establish a Committee for Portland. forthcoming increase in timber harvesting. The Committee for Portland is an initiative of leading To assist potential investors the Council has businesses, industries, community leaders and the provided hospitality, detailed information packages, Council. Its mission is to make Portland a leading presentations and key networking opportunities. We destination in Victoria to live, work and do business. have also provided letters of support for a number of local businesses who sought grants and assistance An interim Board has been established and an Executive from State and Federal governments for business Officer appointed in March 2008. The Board has development programs. developed its Charter and a governance structure. The Committee is also incorporated under the Associations The Council continued to offer its Business Assistance Incorporations Act, making it an independent legal entity. Scheme and access to the suite of services including regular emails, invitations to business events, notifications of legislative changes and pertinent local statistics and information.

28 glenelg shire annual report 07-08 The Committee for Portland is preparing a business plan which will outline the key issues and projects for the Committee during the next three years. continued business growth across the Shire

Foundation membership of the Committee for Portland Economic Development & Tourism Structure was determined and there is strong community, A refocusing of the Economic Development and Tourism business and industry interest in membership. Department was implemented at the end of 2007. New roles of Economic Development and Tourism The Committee for Portland is preparing a business Manager, Project Development Officer, Visitor Services plan which will outline the key issues and projects for Co-ordinator, Events Officer and another permanent the Committee during the next three years. part-time Visitor Services Officer, have strengthened the unit’s ability to respond effectively to the specific Blue Gum Timber business and community challenges across the shire. The Shire is on the cusp of unprecedented timber industry activity. In April 2008 the Council undertook ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY a study tour to Albany in Western Australia to see the The Council is increasing its commitment to progress of and impacts on the Albany region as a environmental sustainability with the appointment result of the blue gum timber industry. The Albany of an Environmental Advisory Committee and an region is significantly similar to the Shire and the Study Environmental Sustainability Officer. The main tour identified a number of important opportunities for focus will be to implement a strategic framework for the Glenelg Shire. sustainable environmental management across the Shire and for maximising Council, community and private Significant economic growth will be generated as a sector opportunities for partnerships in sustainable result of the blue gum harvest. Conservative estimates environmental projects. by the Green Triangle Regional Plantation Committee indicate that by 2011 an additional 941 direct jobs will be required within the timber industry to accommodate the harvest. It is also estimated for every one direct job created, 0.65 indirect jobs will be created, which equates to 600 indirect jobs within the Green Triangle Region.

A range of businesses have expressed an interest in relocating to the Shire to support the blue gum industry - these include biomass fuel, transport body building and transport haulage companies.

glenelg shire annual report 07-08 29 responsible management of major assests

We are developing and adopting individual asset management plans

for all key asset groups.

PLANNING Road Upgrades under the Auslink Strategic The planning unit conducted the following: Regional Program • received 235 planning permit applications • construction of Chaffeys Lane 6km west of Casterton • received 15 planning appeals • construction of widening to Cape Nelson Road, • initiated and completed two planning scheme south from Portland amendments • prepared various reports to assist in the development Other Projects of the Glenelg Strategic Futures Plan • construction of Casterton Skate Park • assessed 26 timber harvesting plans • construction of asphalt paths at Ploughed Fields, • processed 19 Liquor Licence requests from the Portland Department of Justice • re-alignment of Condah Hotspur/Radcliffe Road • processed 13 Works on Waterways licences intersection • construction of concrete footpaths in Casterton, ASSETS AND INFRASTRUCTURE Heywood and Portland The Assets and Infrastructure Department provided • construction of Dutton Way erosion protection rock a wide range of services that are associated with the wall responsible management of major assets that include • construction of East St, Nolan St and The Esplanade, – roads, bridges and footpaths, stormwater drains, Narrawong community buildings, aquatic and recreation facilities, • asphalting of Narrawong Footpaths parks and reserves, waste management facilities, major • construction of underground main drain Beavis St, plant, Portland Airport and Casterton Airstrip, as well as Heywood a host of smaller asset groups. • construction of Border Road South, Nelson • construction of shared bicycle footpath in Trangmar In managing these assets, the Assets and Infrastructure St, Portland Unit undertakes inspections, surveys, designs, • construction of traffic improvement works in Nelson construction and project management, as well as CBD the important function of customer service relating to • construction of Mailings Road, Portland infrastructure enquiries. • construction of Public Toilets in Dartmoor • undergrounding of Powerlines in Percy St, Portland The major projects delivered during 2007/2008 included: • construction of the Heywood Transfer Station • delivery of second year of the Building Asset Management Program works

30 glenelg shire annual report 07-08 Road and Street Maintenance Building Asset Management Plan (BAMP) Maintenance of the Shire’s extensive road and street The BAMP recognises the high value of Councils network included: building assets which represent a significant past • gravel road grading (approximately 2,000km) investment by the community and has a current • road resheeting (approximately 25.5km) replacement value estimated at over $60million. • sealed road rehabilitation (approximately 11.5km) • sealed road resealing (approximately 310,000m2) During 2007/08 $1.5 million was allocated to 165 work tasks over 108 buildings. Ageing assets now have a In addition, asset condition inspections are undertaken new life and will continue to serve the community. on an annual basis to ensure that we can be pro- active and forward plan works. Our response team Major tasks undertaken in this year’s program include: and inspectors also respond to public enquiries and • redevelopment of the Portland Botanical Gardens customer requests for a variety of issues ranging from Depot road grading, vegetation issues through to damaged • refurbishment works at the Portland, Heywood and signs and footpaths. Casterton Football clubrooms and facilities • refurbishment works at the Jaycees Pre-School This year they responded to more than 3,751 formal Centre customer requests in addition to a large number of • roof replacements at the Casterton and Heywood internal requests. Staff also responded to a number of Civic Halls storm events which caused significant damage. • renovations to various toilets blocks • internal and external cyclic painting of many buildings Asset Management • development of conservation management plans for various heritage buildings The Council has adopted an Asset Management Policy and Strategy to effectively manage all assets under its control and improve organisational performance. We are developing and adopting individual asset management plans for all key asset groups.

glenelg shire annual report 07-08 31 established a financial and operational framework

Road Asset Management Plan (Ramp) Waste Management The Council developed and adopted the RAMP and The Council provides a best practice kerbside waste established a financial and operational framework around and recycling service that services all the townships in all Council’s activities relating to road management. the Shire, as well as rural and rural residential properties on designated routes. The kerbside recycling program The RAMP provides financial projections to 20 years, recovers in excess of 1300 tonnes of recyclable based on the current condition of the road assets and materials from homes and businesses each year and the anticipated deterioration of these assets over time. allows them to be separated and returned for re- A high correlation between asset deterioration and the manufacturing. The collection of household waste every value of depreciation of the asset stock is expected. week ensures that public health standards in populated areas are protected. Annual programs for road maintenance, road renewal (rehabilitation) and road upgrades (new) were prepared The recent commissioning of the Heywood Transfer to ensure that the service levels provided across Station complements the range of waste and recycling the Glenelg Shire road network are maintained in drop-off facilities across the Shire and will enable the accordance with the framework established by the closure and eventual rehabilitation of the Heywood RAMP. Landfill.

The RAMP complements the Road Management Plan We are continuing to investigate ways of meeting the and sets the operational service levels of managing the Victorian “Towards Zero Waste” policy and to this end, road network and the associated risks. This Plan is we have worked co-operatively with the Brotherhood of currently being reviewed. Saint Lawrence, various community groups and Future Employment Opportunities to establish the Portland The Council also initiated a process for the protection Recycling Shop based on a community enterprise of its road assets from reckless damage occurring model. This initiative will not only minimise the quantity during adjacent building works. Under this process, the of hard waste going to the Portland Landfill, but also costs of repairing damage to roads, footpaths and other provides valuable employment opportunities for a Council assets within a road reserve will be recovered number of long term unemployed people. from those responsible for the damage. With the cooperation and support of Portland Aluminium, Sustainability Victoria and the Portland, Heywood and Casterton Football Clubs, Public Place Recycling was established at these sporting ovals to recover a waste stream that would previously go to landfill.

32 glenelg shire annual report 07-08 A maintenance plan, combined with some upgrades to meet safety and environmental requirements are programmed to allow this unique facility to continue to operate for the medium term. safety and environmental requirements

We have undertaken investigation and design work for A maintenance plan, combined with some upgrades the rehabilitation of the older Portland Landfill areas. to meet safety and environmental requirements are We are also considering Methane gas extraction. We programmed to allow this unique facility to continue to have begun design work on the development of a Best operate for the medium term. Practice Landfill operation at the Portland site. However, we are considering other alternative waste disposal During 2007/2008, 11,595 head of cattle and 37,734 technologies prior to commitment to a landfill solution. head of sheep were sold through these livestock saleyards. Casterton Saleyards As a result of a Best Value Review of the Casterton Quarries Saleyards in 2006/07, the Council completed a The Council operates four limestone quarries across the Casterton Saleyards Business Plan (Phase One). The Shire which provides significant savings in material costs Business Plan considered all the financial, environmental that enables more works to be undertaken than if the and social issues that relate to the operation of the material was purchased from commercial quarries. The Casterton Saleyards and the inevitable rationalisation Council also sells quarry material to private industry and of saleyards in Victoria. The Council has committed to individuals. continue the saleyards for at least the next three years, subject to ongoing performance measures such as Emergency Response average stock throughput. The Council provided equipment and recovery staff to assist in a number of emergencies including fires and The Casterton Saleyards provide an opportunity for local landslides during the year. producers to market their stock in an historic setting. The annual weaner cattle sales at Casterton have a We received funding of $116,600 from Emergency reputation across Australia for the ability for buyers to Management Australia for a substantial upgrade of purchase large lots of premium young stock that are Council’s Municipal Emergency Co-ordination Centre well presented in the yards that have natural soft floor (MECC) equipment and the development of a GIS material. platform to provide vital and timely information during emergencies. The funding also provided the MECC with portable emergency back up power (generator), so that the MECC can continue to operate during power blackouts throughout an emergency.

glenelg shire annual report 07-08 33 Statutory Building Regulation RISK MANAGEMENT We have focussed on conducting inspections The number of reported injuries for the year marginally on fire service and essential safety measures for exceeded the injuries reported for 2006/07 but accommodation premises to update owners on remains consistent with previous years. The number of current requirements and assist them in meeting WorkCover claims incurred increased with 19 claims safety requirements. lodged and five of these matters resulted in standard claims. The WorkCover premium decreased for the Building statistics for 2007/08 indicate a decrease seventh year in a row with the current remuneration rate in building activity in the Shire. However, 2006/07 was being 1.56%. This is lower than the local government a boom year for building activity throughout Victoria. industry average and sets a new record as the lowest While the number of permits issued overall has rate since the creation of the Glenelg Shire in 1994. decreased, we note that the number of building permits issued for commercial activity has increased. The total number of liability or professional indemnity Insurance claims lodged decreased with 12 matters The level of building activity in the Glenelg Shire resulted reported, all of which were minor and under the excess. in a total of 376 building permits being issued with an This contributed to a 36% reduction in the public liability estimated value of $39,385,109. The approvals include premium. 90 new house/units, 39 extensions, 71 commercial works and 176 minor works. The annual Civic Mutual Plus audit on risk management practices resulted in a slight reduction in the overall score to 63%, partially due to a new audit structure. The risk audit score for Council building risk management remained consistent with a 75% score.

LOCAL LAWS The Council reviewed the General Local Law due to legislative changes, current issues and areas identified for improvement. The review included an extensive community consultation.

34 glenelg shire annual report 07-08 essential safety measures

Keeping its citizens informed about Council activities, services, projects and issues is an important function of the Council. We used a number of communication methods to convey our messages in an easy to understand format.

Animal Management Plan MEDIA LIAISON Following an amendment to the Domestic Animal (Feral Keeping its citizens informed about Council activities, and Nuisance) Animals Act 1994, the Council’s first services, projects and issues is an important function animal management plan was endorsed in principle of the Council. We used a number of communication by Council with further funding to be considered in methods to convey our messages in an easy to future years. As part of continuous improvement, the understand format: Local Laws Unit will consider options for implementing • Media releases – distributed widely throughout south the initiatives in the Plan that do not involve additional western Victoria, Ballarat and Mount Gambier and at funding. The Plan will be reviewed annually by local laws times at the national and state level staff with a major review scheduled in three years. • Community News – quarterly 16 page publication delivered to all residents in the Shire In The Community • Radio and television interviews on specific topics and issues The Local Laws Unit was heavily involved in animal • Mayor on Air weekly breakfast radio interview on welfare promotion with Senior Rangers coordinating Mixx FM the discount animal micro chipping days in Portland, • Your Council Working For You – weekly column in the Heywood & Dartmoor. The service was also provided Portland Observer and Casterton News to assist the RSPCA in the Annual PAWS walk early in • On the Agenda – a summary of the Council’s 2008. There are in excess of 4000 dogs and 1300 cats Ordinary Meeting agenda which is published in the registered throughout the Shire. Portland Observer prior to the Council meeting

• Advertisements in selected newspapers During 2007/08 the Council impounded over 800 • Glenelg Shire website roaming animals comprising 370 dogs, 100 cats, 200 • Answering media requests and enquiries. cattle, 150 sheep and 10 horses which were in breach of the local law. The Local Laws staff responded to over All media releases, Mayor On Air interviews and 380 callouts for emergency assistance after hours, with Community News issues can be found on the Council’s over 250 of these relating to roaming stock at large on website www.glenelg.vic.gov.au. Council roads. 140 infringements were issued as a result of roaming and unregistered animals while 15 offences were lodged against the local law and in excess of 700 parking fines were issued. Fire prevention inspections were also conducted over the period leading up to summer with over 550 fire notices issued to property holders to maintain their property.

glenelg shire annual report 07-08 35 detailed and comprehensive information

ONLINE MAPPING AND AERIAL IMAGERY The new service can be accessed by going to Council’s website www.glenelg.vic.gov.au and clicking on Glenelg A new gateway into Council’s publicly available data Online Mapping (which can be found in the listing of bases became available in November 2007, with the Council services on the left hand-side of the page). launch of an innovative new online mapping service. The site is also linked to the Department of The new service works on a similar principle to Sustainability’s website. Google Earth but has additional, more detailed and comprehensive information specific to the Glenelg Shire. PROPERTY VALUATIONS INCREASE

The Glenelg Shire Council is leading the way in making A revaluation of all rateable properties as required by property related information available to the public. Only the Victorian Government under the Valuation of Land a small number of municipalities in Australia provide this Act and the Valuation Best Practice Guidelines was type of information direct to the public. completed. The objective of state wide two yearly revaluations is to ensure that both the Council and State The new service has a wide range of applications for Government regularly recognise the changes that occur businesses, farmers, real estate agents, developers and in the property market, both positive and negative, and the public generally. Access to the state digital map that these changes are reflected in the level of rates or base for the Glenelg Shire is available together with a land tax a property owner will pay. diverse range of additional layers, high resolution aerial imagery and contours. The new valuations for the 14,905 rate assessments in the Shire are calculated on the levels of value that There are various ways of looking up information applied in the real estate market as at 1st January 2008. including the ability to zoom in to a specific property or The new valuations will be used to calculate rates for the area via aerial photography or via the state digital map 2008/09 and 2009/10 financial years. base with precise detail and high resolution. A tool is also available to measure distances. The total value of all rateable properties in the Glenelg Shire is $4.5 billion according to Council’s contract Through user feed back further enhancements and valuer, Southern Cross Property Services. This is an improvements to the service will be considered and increase of $497 million or an average increase of 10% implemented where possible. on the previous valuation undertaken in 2006. This reflects the buoyant real estate market throughout parts of the Shire during the past two years.

36 glenelg shire annual report 07-08 Significant building, subdivision and development activity took place in the Shire during the year.

Due to market demand, primary production and timber For 2008/09, it is estimated that approximately 9,572 plantation land had reasonable increases with the total properties will have rate decreases, 2,953 properties farm land valuation increasing by an average 18% and will have rate increases between 1% and 5% and 2,380 the total timber plantation land valuation increasing by properties will have rate increases greater than 5%. an average 15%. The actual percentage increase for individual properties varied depending upon the location The next two yearly general valuations have of properties. commenced and will be delivered to Council prior to 31 March 2008. Average valuation increases for commercial/industrial properties in Portland (-0.2%) and outside Portland (7%); An active ongoing supplementary valuation process rural residential properties (5%) and Portland residential continues to maximise additional rate income that properties (9%) were less than the Shire average of 10%. helps fund additional services and projects. Significant building, subdivision and development activity took place Valuations for major townships in the Shire also in the Shire during the year. resulted from increases in market prices with Heywood increasing by an average 20%. Casterton’s average CUSTOMER SERVICE valuation increased by 6%. Council continues to place great emphasis on the level of service that it provides its customers. We continue Increased property values do not increase the total to strive to meet the commitment we have made in our amount of money the Council collects in rates, it merely Customer Service Charter. redistributes the amount of rates paid between individual properties. Some ratepayers will pay more and some We are a diverse Shire spread over a large geographical will pay less, depending on the new value of their area which leads to many challenges as. We aim to property relative to other properties in the Glenelg Shire. meet the needs of the customers. The Council continues The Council Budget determines how much it collects in to prioritise and allocate available resources where they rates – not property valuations. are most needed.

The Council budget adopted on Tuesday 24 June 2008 The Council aims to ensure that all customers are was based on an average 5% increase in total satisfied with our service and that we have heard and rate revenue. understood their issues. While we complete many of the requests received, if for any reason the Council cannot carry out requests, we strive to communicate clearly the reasons for our decision.

glenelg shire annual report 07-08 37 Good governance has a key role in ensuring that we DELEGATIONS achieve the highest standards of integrity, transparency, Not all powers and functions of the Council are executed accountability. directly by the Council. The Chief Executive Officer is appointed by the Council for the purpose of managing The Council’s approach to good governance includes the organisation. Some of these powers are further policy development, community engagement in the delegated to Senior Officers and Staff. The Council development of Strategic Plans, adherence to legislation reviewed the powers delegated by the Council and and open and transparent reporting. the Chief Executive Officer during the year to update legislative, organisational and staff changes. We constantly monitor and progressively implement changes resulting from federal and state legislation to AUDIT COMMITTEE ensure statutory compliance. The Audit Committee has delegated responsibility for CODE OF GOOD GOVERNANCE assisting the Council in ensuring that financial and operating procedures and systems are adequate, The Council has adopted the Code of Good that risks are identified and managed and that the Governance, which was prepared by representatives organisation complies with all laws affecting it. of local government throughout Victoria. The purpose of this Code is to establish standards and principles The Committee has a strong focus on risk management for local government to ensure the highest level of and completed a number of reviews during the year. governance and community leadership. The Audit Committee consists of three Councillors and three independent persons as voting members. The CODE OF CONDUCT Chief Executive Officer and Group Manager Corporate The Code of Conduct for Councillors adopted by the Services are non voting members. The Audit Committee Council on 25 January 2005 was reviewed in February met on four occasions during 2007/08. 2006. The Code affirms a common understanding among Councillors with regard to their responsibilities to comply with the rules of conduct and the expectations of conduct when representing the Council in their dealings.

38 glenelg shire annual report 07-08 Good governance has a key role in ensuring that we achieve the highest standards of integrity, transparency, accountability.

INFORMATION PRIVACY WHISTLEBLOWERS PROTECTION ACT The Council has committed to information privacy The Whistleblowers Protection Act 2001 became law in principles and has adopted policies on information Victoria in January 2002. privacy and health records to comply with the requirements of the Information Privacy Act 2000 and It is designed to encourage and facilitate the disclosure Health Records Act 2001. Considerable training and of information about improper conduct by Councillors work has been undertaken during the past two years by and Council Staff. The Act protects people who staff throughout the organisation to ensure compliance disclose information and provides a framework for the with the two Acts. The Council has an Information investigation and rectifying action. Privacy Policy and a comprehensive privacy manual is available to guide staff. As required by the Act, the Council has adopted a policy and a set of procedures relating to Whistleblowers. A During 2007/08 the Council did not received any copy can be downloaded from the Glenelg Shire website complaints relating to information privacy directly or via www.glenelg.vic.gov.au or obtained from Council’s the Victorian Information Privacy Commissioner or Health Protected Disclosure Coordinator. Records Commissioner. A copy of the Council policy can be downloaded from the Glenelg Shire website During 2007/08 no disclosures were made to the www.glenelg.vic.gov.au or obtained from the Council’s Council or to the Ombudsman. Accordingly no Customer Service Centre. matters were substantiated, nor any actions taken or recommendations made.

FREEDOM OF INFORMATION The Freedom of Information Act 1982 provides members of the community a legally enforceable right of access to specified Council ‘documents’. Where possible, and subject to legislative requirements, the Council may provide information to potential applicants without requiring a formal Freedom of Information Application as part of our general commitment to openness in decision making.

In 2007/08 four requests were made to access the Council documents and access was granted in all four cases. No other requests were made.

glenelg shire annual report 07-08 39 The positive outcomes from the ‘Best Value Reviews’ completed to date include efficiencies, improved business practices and enhanced service delivery.

VICTORIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT INDICATORS 2007/08 The Victorian Local Government Indicators are a set of measures that the Victorian Government requires all 79 Victorian Councils to report on. The nine indicators are:

Item Description Result Result Result 2005/06 2006/07 2007/08 1 Community satisfaction rating for overall performance generally of the Council 57 56 60

2 Community satisfaction rating for Council’s advocacy and community representation on key local issues 58 58 58

3 Community satisfaction rating for Council’s engagement in decision making on key local issues 54 53 57

4 Average rates and charges per assessment $1,057.15 $1,154.84 $1,222.00

5 Average residential rates and charges per assessment $618.03 $666.81 $697.00

6 Average operating expenditure per assessment $2,160.58 $2,199.96 $2,364.00

7 Average capital expenditure per assessment $619.29 $653.50 $643.00

8 Average liabilities per assessment $926.72 $946.29 $924.00

9 Operating result per assessment $267.68 $361.24 $200.00

40 glenelg shire annual report 07-08 BEST VALUE VICTORIA ANNUAL REPORT Service Reviews Previously Completed: The positive outcomes from the ‘Best Value Reviews’ • Aquatic Based Leisure Facilities completed to date include efficiencies, improved • Building Services business practices and enhanced service delivery. • Environmental Health • Records Management The Council recognises the importance of community • Local Laws consultation and feedback as part of the Best Value • Parks & Gardens program, and various methods for obtaining feedback • Tourism have been used since the inception of Best Value. • Cleaning Services Consultation is a valuable link between the Council and • Maternal & Child Health the community and has included community workshops, • Road Works customer surveys and advertising in local media. • Statutory Planning • Rates and Valuations A copy of the full report for each completed Service • Airport Management Review is available from Shire Customer Service • Children’s Services Centres. • Engineering Design • Home & Community Care Service Reviews Completed During 2007/08: • Recreation Services • Meals on Wheels • Environmental Health • Caravan Parks • Meals on Wheels • Council Quarries • Maternal and Child Health • Casterton Saleyards • Records Management

The Reviews were completed during the year and presented to Council.

glenelg shire annual report 07-08 41 LOCAL GOVERNMENT IMPROVEMENT INCENTIVE PROGRAM STATEMENT 2007/08 Glenelg Shire Council Certification by Chief Executive Officer

Glenelg Shire Council has complied with the requirements of the Local Government Improvement Incentive Program.

Glenelg Shire Council has complied with the requirements of the National Competition Policy (NCP) for the period 1 July 2007 to 30 June 2008, in accordance with the requirements outlined in National Competition Policy and Local Government – A Revised Statement of Victorian Government Policy (January 2002) as set out below:

A. Trade Practices Compliance State whether the Council is compliant or non-compliant. If non-compliant, Compliant justify or cite actions to redress.

B. Local Laws Compliance

State whether the Council is compliant or non-compliant. List any local laws Compliant made or remade during 2007-08 which impose a restriction on competition:

C. Competitive Neutrality Compliance

State whether the Council is compliant or non-compliant for all significant Compliant businesses. List any significant businesses that are non-compliant:

I certify that:

a) this statement has been prepared in accordance with the 2007-08 National Competition Policy guidelines issued in May 2008 for reporting on National Competition Policy in accordance with National Competition Policy and Local Government – A Revised Statement of Victorian Government Policy (January 2002) ; and

b) this statement presents fairly the Council’s implementation of the National Competition Policy.

Signed:

Stuart Burdack CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Date: 30 June 2008

42 glenelg shire annual report 07-08 INFORMATION AVAILABLE FOR (e) names of Councillors who submitted returns of PUBLIC INSPECTION interest during the financial year and the dates the (As required by Part 5, Clause 11 of the Local Government returns were submitted; (General) Regulations 2004)

The following information is available for public inspection (f) agendas for and minutes of ordinary and special at the Glenelg Shire Council, Municipal Offices, Cliff meetings held in the previous 12 months kept under Street, Portland: section 93 of the Act except if the minutes relate to parts of meetings which have been closed to members of the (a) details of current allowances fixed for the Mayor, Lord public under section 89 of the Act; Mayor (if any)and Councillors under section 74 or 74A of the Act; (g) a list of all special committees established by Council and the purpose for which each committee was (b) details of senior officers’ total salary packages for established; the current financial year and the previous year including the gross salary, the amount of the Council or employer (h) a list of all special committees established by the contribution to superannuation, the value of any motor Council which were abolished or ceased to function vehicle provided by the Council and the total value during the financial year; of any other benefits and allowances provided by the Council; (i) minutes of meetings of special committees established under section 86 of the Act and held in the (c) details of overseas or interstate travel (with the previous 12 months except if the minutes relate to parts exception of interstate travel by land for less than three of meetings which have been closed to members of the days) undertaken in an official capacity by Councillors or public under section 89 of the Act; any member of Council staff in the previous 12 months, including the names of the Councillors or members of (j) a register of delegations kept under sections 87, 88 Council staff and the date, destination, purpose and total and 98 of the Act, including the date on which the last cost of the overseas or interstate travel; review under section 98(6) of the Act took place;

(d) names of Council officers who were required to (k) submissions received in accordance with section submit a return of interest during the financial year and 223 of the Act during the previous 12 months; the dates the returns were submitted; (l) agreements to establish regional libraries under section 196 of the Act;

glenelg shire annual report 07-08 43 (m) details of all property, finance and operating RECREATION GRANTS leases involving land, buildings, plant, computer Portland Bowling Club $27,694 equipment or vehicles entered into by the as lessor or Casterton Secondary College $6,350 lessee, including the name of the other party to the South West Academy of Sport $6,000 lease and the terms and the value of the lease; Far Western District Swimming Association $5,000 Glenelg Pony Club Incorporation $5,000 (n) a register of authorised officers appointed under Portland Little Athletics Centre $5,000 section 224 of the Act; Portland Surf Life Saving Club Incorporation $3,530 Portland Soccer Sports & Recreation Club $2,650 (o) a list of donations and grants made by the Council South Coast Drags Assocociation Incorporation $2,500 during the financial year, including the names of Portland Heywood Field & Game $2,295 persons or bodies which have received a donation or Heywood Pony Club $2,000 grant and the amount of each donation or grant; Portland Netball Association $2,000 Casterton Polocrosse Club Incorporation $1,950 (p) a list of the names of the organisations of which Casterton & District Netball Association $1,756 the Council was a member during the financial year South West Sports Assembly $1,100 and details of all membership fees and other amounts Sandford Football & Netball Club $1,000 and services provided during that year to each Portland Secondary College $300 organisation by the Council;

(q) a list of contracts valued at $100 000 or more which the Council entered into during the financial year without first engaging in a competitive process and which are not contracts referred to in section 186(5) of the Act.

44 glenelg shire annual report 07-08 TOURISM GRANTS ARTS GRANTS Promoting Heywood & District Committee Music Glenelg $3,000 Incorporation $8,370 Aspire: A pathway to mental health $900 Portland Tourist Association Incorporation $5,500 Anglican Mission District of Lower Glenelg $550 Casterton Kelpie Association Incorporation $5,000 Bahgallah Memorial Hall Incorporation $500 Heywood Wood Wine & Roses Festival $5,000 Brenton Sharp $500 Casterton Business & Tourism Association Josh Rawiri $500 Incorporation $4,000 The Arts Company Incorporation $500 Casterton & District Historical Society

Incorporation $3,000 BUSINESS ASSISTANCE SCHEME South Coast Drag Racing Association Incorporation $3,000 Wotta Hide $438 Southern 500 Speedway Club Incorporation $2,700 Portland French Hot Bread $417 Nelson Tourist Association Incorporation $2,200 Drew Gleeson Legal $358 Tyrendarra P & A Society Incorporation $2,000 The Oasis Café & Juice Bar $357 Karnkendi Campside Incorporation $1,940 Dartmoor & District Progress Association $1,250 SES SUBSIDIES Digby Hall Committee $1,090 Dartmoor SES $10,460 Casterton Motor Enthusiasts Club Incorporation $1,000 Heywood SES $10,460 Portland Dahlia Festival $1,000 Portland SES $10,460 Dartmoor Football & Netball Club $850 Lions Club of Portland Incorporation $200 SPONSORSHIPS

PUBLIC HALL GRANTS South West Sports Assembly $16,500 Portland Callisthenics Club $300 Bolwarra Hall & Recreation Reserve $6,000 Heywood Consolidated School $150 Dartmoor & District Memorial Hall $4,106 Strathdownie Memorial Hall & Recreation Reserve $4,000 Mechanics Hall Narrawong $1,606 Bahgallah Memorial Hall Incorporation $1,533 Drumborg Hall & Recreation Reserve Incorporation $1,000 Hotspur Hall $825 Homerton Hall & Recreation Reserve Incorporation $814 Condah Mechanics Institute & Recreation Reserve $393

glenelg shire annual report 07-08 45 donations and contributions to the Shire

COMMUNITY GRANTS CONTRIBUTIONS AND DONATIONS Portland North Primary School $1,600 Corangamite Shire $11,000 Australian Breast Feeding Association Portland Moyne Shire $11,000 Group $1,200 Warrnambool City Council $4,400 Casterton & District Historical Society Inc. $1,000 Great South Coast $4,000 Casterton New Public Cemetery $1,000 Mildura City Council $3,550 Casterton RSL Sub Branch $1,000 Colac Otway Shire; Regional Trails Masterplan Casterton Winter Christmas Dinner Committee $1,000 Contribution $3,300 Sandford Recreation Reserve $1,000 Dartmoor & District Progress Association $2,718 Portland Secondary College $800 Nelson Reserve Committee of Management Heywood Kindergarten Inc. $760 Incorporation $2,296 Heywood Secondary College $735 Casterton Business & Tourism Association Incorporation $2,200 Henty Group of CWA Vic. $600 Promoting Heywood & District Committee $2,200 St John’s Lutheran Primary School $560 Shire of Corangamite $2,200 Nelson Progress Association Incorporation $500 Portland Tourist Association Incorporation $1,100 Portland Citizens Brass Band $500 Condah Mechanics Institute & Recreation Reserve $175 Koori Kids; NAIDOC Week School Initiative Competitions $495 3RPC Inc. $428 Portland Primary School - Healthy Breakfast $368 Portland RSL Sub Branch $350 Narrawong District Primary School $158 Merino Consolidated School $141 Victorian Safe Communities Network Incorporated $55

46 glenelg shire annual report 07-08 Council provides over 100 services to people of all ages and stages of life around the Shire.

Council provides over 100 services to people of all ages Economic Development & Business Support and stages of life around the Shire. • Business support & advice • Business Assistance Scheme Home and Community Care & Aged & • Business visits Disability Services • Marketing of municipality • Planned activity groups for seniors • Business & community liaison • Delivered meal services • Assistance to new industries • Home & Personal Care Services • Major project facilitation • Senior Citizen Centres • Grants admin, assistance, management • Respite Care • Foreshore development • Property maintenance • Provision of caravan parks

Libraries Infrastructure • Books, CDs, videos, DVDs, magazines & • Maintenance & upkeep on 211 Shire buildings newspapers to borrow and browse • Maintenance on 2,500kms of local roads and bridges • Internet and photocopying • Grading of 1,523kms unsealed or gravel roads • Online resources • Car parks • Preschool story time • Contract management • School holiday activities • Major project construction management • Internet and computer classes • Emergency management & planning • Spaces to read, relax and study • Street lighting • Community meeting rooms • Engineering design • IT training • Cleaning the Shire’s public BBQs & toilets • Travelling Library • Maintenance Portland airport • Street sweeping in main shopping areas Planning & Building • Footpath provision and maintenance • Planning – Statutory & Strategic • Kerb & channel provision • Heritage Advisor • Storm water pit maintenance • Building Services • Sign replacement & maintenance Shire wide • Casterton sale yards • Provision of swimming pools • Recreational boating & parking facilities – boat ramps

glenelg shire annual report 07-08 47 Waste & Recycling Local Laws • Collection and disposal of general household • Parking garbage • Animal registration and control • Recycling service • School Crossing Supervisors • Transfer stations and landfill sites for disposal • Fire restriction enforcement and recycling services • Impounding stock on roads & enforcement of state legislation Public Health • Monitoring the keeping of domestic animals on private property • Immunisation programs • Assessment of businesses to ensure compliance with Food Act 1984 Children’s Services • Registration of premises, food safety programs, food • Family Day Care complaints, temporary events, safety standards, • Long Day Care Services labelling requirements • Maternal & Child Health • Registration and assessment of other premises such • Inclusion Support Facilitator – supports staff who as accommodation & caravan parks, beauty salons, care for children with additional needs hairdressers and body piercing parlours to ensure • Dartmoor Preschool & Occasional Care correct hygiene & safe practices • In-Home Care • Monitoring for noise, smells & smoke, pest control • Preventing the spread of infectious diseases Youth Services • Advice including pests with a potential health impact • Support of youth music & leadership programs • Approving individual domestic septic systems in • Glenelg National Youth Week unsewered areas • Community orientated youth, children and family • Monitoring compliance with tobacco laws, including events & activities tobacco sale & smoking in public places • Youth Action Groups • Youth Mentoring Project/Program • Youth referral services • Linkages to local, regional and federal networks and developments • Counselling services • Drug & alcohol services • Skate parks • Youth orientated festivals & events • Youth based advisory councils

48 glenelg shire annual report 07-08 supporting the community to plan and develop

Council provides over 100 services to people of all ages and stages of life around the Shire.

Rural Access Arts & Culture • Supports the community to plan and develop • Support for projects and events initiated by the local strategies which will increase community participation community for people with a disability. Projects include: • Management of the Shire’s Cultural Collection - Physical access • History House & Maritime Discovery Centre - Health and wellbeing – Cultural Collection displays - Business and tourism • Coordination of an Arts Program - Recreation and leisure - Education and training Parks & Gardens - Information provision • Parks and gardens maintained including mowing of 11 recreation reserves and playing fields Recreation • Portland Botanic Gardens • Provision and development of sporting grounds • Maintain all public municipal areas in the Shire around the Shire • Club development and administrative advice to all Community sporting organisations • Australia Day celebrations in Casterton, Heywood • Development of playgrounds and Portland • Provide financial assistance to sporting and hall • Volunteer functions groups through grants • Senior Citizens Week celebration • Provide advocacy and assistance for club projects • Recognition of special birthdays and anniversaries • Fund school holiday programs • Community meetings • Home of the South West Games • Community grants • Citizenship ceremonies Tourism • Community directories • Tourism information and advice through the Visitor Information Centres in Portland, Casterton & Nelson Advocacy • Promotion of the region • Seek to secure federal and state grants for the Shire and community groups • Advocate on a diverse range of issues on behalf of the community, Council and the region

glenelg shire annual report 07-08 49 PORTLAND MUNICIPAL OFFICES Office Hours: Monday to Friday 8.30am to 5.00pm (except public holidays) Location: Cliff Street, Portland, Victoria glenelg shire annual report glenelgglenelg shir shire annual report glenelg shire annual report glenelg shire Postal: Glenelg Shire Council annual report glenelg shire annualannual repo report glenelg shire annual report glenelg shire annual report PO Box 152 Portland Victoria 3305 glenelg shire annual report glenelgglenelg shir shire annual report glenelg shire annual report glenelg shire Telephone: (03) 5522 2200 annual report glenelg shire annualannual repo report glenelg shire annual report glenelg shire annual report Facsimile: (03) 5522 2290 Email: [email protected] Internet site: www.glenelg.vic.gov.au

CASTERTON CUSTOMER SERVICE CENTRE Office Hours: Monday to Friday 9.00am to 5.00pm (except public holidays)

Location: 67 Henty Street, Casterton, Victoria Telephone: (03) 5554 2444

Facsimile: (03) 5581 2216

HEYWOOD CUSTOMER SERVICE CENTRE Office Hours: Monday to Friday 9.00am to 5.00pm (except public holidays)

Location: 77 Edgar Street, Heywood, Victoria Telephone: (03) 5527 0666 Facsimile: (03) 5527 1099

50 glenelg shire annual report 07-08 glenelg shire annual report glenelg shire annual report glenelg shire annual report glenelg shire annual report glenelg shire annual report glenelg shire annual report glenelg shire annual report glenelg shire annual report glenelg shire annual report glenelg shire annual report

Understanding the Audited Financial Statements 52

Financial Indicators & Sustainability 54

Standard Statements 55

Standard Income Statement 56

Standard Balance Sheet 58

Standard Cash Flow Statement 60

Standard Capital Works Statement 62

Notes to Standard Statements 64

Certification of the Standard Statements 65

Financial Statements 66

Performance Statements 105

glenelg shire annual report 07-08 51 understanding the audited financial statements

The Financial Statements are prepared by Council to 2. Balance Sheet meet the requirements of the Local Government Act The Balance Sheet indicates Council’s financial position 1989, Local Government (Finance and Reporting) at a point in time (being 30 June 2008). It summarises Regulations 2004 and Australian Accounting Standards. the assets that Council owns and the liabilities that it The Financial Statements format is based on the Model owes against these assets. Assets and Liabilities are Financial Statements which was developed by the listed into current and non-current categories. Current Department for Victorian Communities. includes those assets which could be converted to cash within the next 12 months or liabilities which are The statements are audited by the Auditor General’s expected to be paid within the next 12 months. agent before being approved in principle by the Council. The Financial Statements are then forwarded to the The Balance Sheet indicates that Council is in a sound Auditor General for final approval. For 2007/2008 Council financial position as at 30 June 2008 with a Working has received a clear audit of its Financial Statements. Capital Ratio of 289% (i.e. Council has $2.89 of current assets for every $1.00 of current liabilities). The Financial Statements consist of four key financial reports with explanatory notes supporting the reports. The bottom line to this Statement is “Net Assets”, The four reports include: and represents the net accumulated financial worth 1. Income Statement of Council (i.e. the difference between the value of 2. Balance Sheet Total Assets and Total Liabilities). As at 30 June 2008, 3. Statement of Changes in Equity Council’s Net Assets was $274,400 million. In relation 4. Cash Flow Statement to Infrastructure assets, it is important to note that many of these assets will never be sold or converted into 1. Income Statement cash but is included to enable better management of The Income Statement measures Council’s performance Council’s assets. over the financial year and shows if a surplus or deficit has been made in relation to service provision. 3. Statement of Changes in Equity The Statement of Changes in Equity summarises the The statement includes all sources of revenue, less change in Council’s net worth or equity. Council’s net all operating expenses incurred in providing Council worth can only change from a “Surplus” or “Deficit” from works and services to residents, businesses, industries the Income Statement, adjustments made directly to and visitors. Expenses include the item depreciation, retained earnings or from a revaluation of Council’s which is the estimated value of assets used during the non-current assets. year in providing Council assets and services. Costs associated with capital expenditure are excluded from this statement, but are depreciated as they are used.

When the net result for the reporting period is a surplus, this would indicate that revenue is greater than expenses. If the net result is a deficit, revenue would be less than expenses. For the year end 30th June 2008, Council made a surplus of $2.739 million which is compared to the budgeted surplus of $3.377 million. This surplus includes cash and non cash items.

52 glenelg shire annual report 07-08 4. Cash Flow Statement Although total cash reserves are $12.309 million, Council has imposed restrictions on cash and The Cash Flow Statement summarises Council’s cash investments of $4.071 million to cover statutory and receipts and cash payments for the financial year, discretionary reserves; and employee entitlements and and shows the net cash movement in cash reserves. $1.216 million in Government Grants received for future The net cash movement, together with the cash and works. The balance of $7.022 million cash is required to cash equivalents held at the beginning of the financial fund un-completed Capital works and finance working year must balance to the cash and cash equivalents capital requirements. reserves shown in the Balance Sheet as at the 30 June each year. Notes to the Financial Statements The Cash Flow Statement differs from the Income The Notes to the Financial Statements provide further Statement by: information in relation to the rules and assumptions used to prepare the Financial Statements. It also gives • Excluding non cash expenses such as depreciation additional information regarding specific items within the and written down value of assets sold; Statements, or advises the reader if there have been any • Excluding accruals taken up in the Income Statement changes to Accounting Standards, Policy or Legislation (eg. goods or services received but not paid for by which may impact how the Statements are prepared. 30th June); • Including payments or receipts in relation to capital In each of the Financial Statements, there is a “Note” items; and column which indicates what note to refer to for • Including payments or receipts in relation to Financing additional information. Activities such as loan principal repayments or new loan borrowings.

The Cash Flow Statement has three sections, including:

• Cash Flows from Operating Activities – Includes all income and expenses in relation to Council’s daily operations. It is essential that Council has a cash surplus in this area to ensure continued service provision and funds available for capital works. • Cash Flows from Investing Activities – Includes expenditure on capital works and receipts from the sale of Council’s assets. • Cash Flows from Financing Activities – Includes loan principal repayments, interest and other finance charges and any receipts from new loan borrowings.

In the Cash Flow Statement for the year ended 30th June 2008, Council had a net increase in cash reserves of $0.772 resulting in total cash reserves of $12.309 million.

glenelg shire annual report 07-08 53 financial indicators & sustainability

During the 2007/2008 budget process, Glenelg Shire Cash and Investments at 30 June Council used financial indicators to determine the 14,000 financial sustainability of the Council. The indicators 12,000 included: 10,000 • Council’s ability to meet its current commitments, 8,000

• Maintenance of adequate cash reserves, $'000 6,000 • Minimising outstanding debtors and greater debt 4,000 recovery, and 2,000 • Debt management and reduction. - 2001/ 2002/ 2003/ 2004/ 2005/ 2006/ 2007/ 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 The following charts illustrate Council’s performance in relation to these financial indicators. The level of cash and cash equivalents has increased significantly since 2001/02. The objective has been to improve this result allowing Council to meet its future cash commitments whilst maintaining a strong liquid position throughout the year. Working Capital Ratio (to access Council’s ability to meet current commitments)

350% General Debtors Outstanding at 30 June 300% 3,500 250% 3,000 200% 2,500 150% 2,000 100% $'000 1,500 50% 1,000 0% 2001/ 2002/ 2003/ 2004/ 2005/ 2006/ 2007/ 500 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 - 2001/ 2002/ 2003/ 2004/ 2005/ 2006/ 2007/ The Working Capital Ratio assesses Council’s ability to meet 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 its financial commitments over the next twelve months. This ratio has improved since 2001/2002 and is currently 289% at Council’s general debtors fluctuate each year depending on 30 June 2008. the level of accruals for revenue due for large projects at 30 June. Debts are strictly managed to ensure that Council’s risks in this area are minimised. Rates Outstanding at 30 June 900 800 Debt Outstanding at 30 June 700 7,000 70% 600 6,000 60% 500

$'000 400 5,000 50% 300 4,000 40% 200 $'000 3,000 30% 100 - 2,000 20% 2001/ 2002/ 2003/ 2004/ 2005/ 2006/ 2007/ 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 1,000 10% - 0% 2001/2002 2002/2003 2003/2004 2004/2005 2005/2006 2006/2007 2007/2008 Outstanding rates are extremely low in comparison to rates Debt Outstanding at 30 June raised per year. In 2002/03, the result included unpaid rates % of Debt Outstanding to Rate Income from a large ratepayer for one instalment. In accordance with Council’s objectives, Council’s debt levels are reducing. Council has factored $300,000 of borrowings into the 2008/09 Budget as part of the funding strategy for the Portland Child & Family Complex.

54 glenelg shire annual report 07-08 standard statements

INTRODUCTION CONTENTS

The Annual Report shows the actual Standard Statements Page results for the year.

Standard Income Statement 56 The following four Standard Statements and explanatory notes for the Annual Standard Income Statement Report (the Comparison Report) form - Variance Explanation Report 57 a special purpose financial report prepared specifically to meet the Standard Balance Sheet 58 requirements of the Local Government (Democratic Reform) Act 2003 relating to Standard Balance Sheet Standard Statements. - Variance Explanation Report 59

The Standard Statements in this report Standard Cash Flow Statement 60 each provide information in relation to an aspect of Council’s financial Standard Cash Flow Statement management. They should be read in - Variance Explanation Report 61 conjunction with one another to obtain an overall understanding of Council’s Standard Capital Works Statement 62 financial position and management.

Standard Capital Works Statement The Standard Statements of Income - Variance Explanation Report 63 Statement, Balance Sheet, Cash Flows

and Capital Works for the Annual Report Notes to the Standard Statements 64 are consistent with the Budget and are

prepared on bases consistent with the Certification of the Standard Statements 65 Financial Statements.

This report is a summary of the information found in the Budget and the Financial Report and as such cannot be expected to provide as full an understanding of financial performance as the complete reports from which it is derived. The Budget and Financial Report together with their detailed notes should be examined for further detailed information.

glenelg shire annual report 07-08 55 standard income statement for the year ended 30 june 2008

Note Budget Actual Variances 2008 2008 $’000 $’000 $’000 %

Revenues Revenue from ordinary activities Revenue from operating activities Rate Income 15,630 15,659 29 0.2 User Fees and Charges 4,338 4,385 47 1.1 Operating Grants and Subsidies 7,736 8,222 486 6.3 Investment Income 1 448 835 387 86.3 Other Income 2 2,076 2,675 599 28.8 Revenue from outside the operating activities Capital Grants, Subsidies and Contributions 3 4,179 2,555 (1,624) (38.9)

Total Revenue 34,407 34,331 (76) (0.2)

Expenses Expenses from ordinary activities Employee Expenses 12,002 12,285 283 2.4 Contract Expenses 4 8,058 9,122 1,064 13.2 Material Expenses 3,041 3,276 235 7.7 Finance Fees and Interest 230 230 0 0.0 Other Expenses 2,500 2,486 (14) (0.6) Depreciation and Amortisation 6,025 6,461 436 7.2 Internal Cost Allocations Capitalised 5 (1,285) (1,516) (231) 18.0

Total Expenses 30,571 32,344 1,773 5.8

Net Gain (Loss) on Disposal of Assets 6 (459) 68 527 (114.9) Recognition of Previously Unrecognised Non-Current Assets 7 - 380 380 100.0 Share of net profits (losses) of associates and joint ventures accounted for by the equity method - - - - Assets Written Off 8 - (106) (106) 100.0 (Increment) Decrement in Fair Values of Investment Properties - 409 409 -

Net result for the reporting period 3,377 2,739 (638) (18.9)

56 glenelg shire annual report 07-08 standard income statement VARIANCE EXPLANATION REPORT

Note Item Explanation 1 Investment Income Investment income received was greater than budget due to the increased cash reserves throughout the year and the timing of cash flows.

2 Other Income Increased income primarily due to additional Vic Roads income for maintenance works.

3 Capital Grants, Subsidies Lower income realised due to the grant for the Portland Family and Contributions and Children’s Services Complex not being received due to the delay in the commencement of the Project and lower than anticipated capital road funding.

4 Contract Expenses Additional expenditure in the areas of waste management; aquatic centres; limestone quarry and special projects relating to the receipt of ‘one off’ Government Grants including some projects that were undertaken on behalf of Community Groups.

5 Internal Cost Allocations Capitalised The level of internal plant hire, gravel resources and salary oncosts used on capital works was greater than original estimates.

6 Net Gain (Loss) on Disposal of Assets This represents net gain on the disposal of plant & equipment. The budgeted net loss related to the sale of a Council property which did not occur.

7 Recognition of Previously Unrecognised Represents Assets not previously recognised, resulting from Non-Current Assets a review of the value of Council’s Asset base.

8 Assets Written Off During 2007/2008, adjustments were made for asset write-offs. No provision in the budget was made for this adjustment.

The Standard Income Statement for the Annual Report indicates the results during the year in terms of revenue, expenditure and other adjustments from all activities. The Income Statement requires revenues to be separately disclosed where the item is of such a size, nature or incidence that its disclosure is relevant in explaining the performance of the Council.

glenelg shire annual report 07-08 57 standard balance sheet for the year ended 30 june 2008

Note Budget Actual Variances 2008 2008 $’000 $’000 $’000 %

Assets Current assets Cash and Cash Equivalents 9 6,704 12,309 5,605 83.6 Trade and Other Receivables 10 2,294 1,862 (432) (18.8) Inventory 11 214 193 (21) (9.9) Prepayments 12 248 649 401 161.5 Other 13 256 195 (61) (23.7) Total current assets 9,716 15,208 5,492 56.5

Non-current assets Trade and Other Receivables 14 5 13 8 164.3 Investments in Associates 13 13 0 0.9 Investment Properties 15 1,644 2,168 524 31.8 Land 15 19,769 20,466 697 3.5 Buildings 15 31,612 33,560 1,948 6.2 Infrastructure - Roads 16 124,331 130,943 6,612 5.3 Infrastructure - Other 16 59,631 70,911 11,280 18.9 Other Structures 3,431 3,461 30 0.9 Plant and Equipment 4,742 4,775 33 0.7 Furniture and Fittings 17 447 376 (71) (15.8) Heritage 3,148 3,152 4 0.1 Works in Progress 18 11,215 2,000 (9,215) (82.2) Total non-current assets 259,988 271,838 11,850 4.6

Total Assets 269,704 287,046 17,342 6.4

Liabilities Current liabilities Trade and Other Payables 19 1,576 2,348 772 49.0 Interest-bearing Loans and Borrowings 600 579 (21) (3.5) Provisions 20 1,779 2,338 559 31.4

Total current liabilities 3,955 5,265 1,310 33.1

Non-current liabilities Interest-bearing Loans and Borrowings 21 2,108 1,829 (279) (13.2) Provisions 22 5,160 5,552 392 7.6 Total non-current liabilities 7,268 7,381 113 1.6 Total Liabilities 11,223 12,646 1,423 12.7

Net Assets 258,481 274,400 15,919 6.2

Represented by: Accumulated Surplus 129,032 128,565 (467) (0.4) Asset Revaluation Reserve 23 129,449 145,835 16,386 12.7

Equity 258,481 274,400 15,919 6.2

58 glenelg shire annual report 07-08 standard balance sheet VARIANCE EXPLANATION REPORT

Note Item Explanation 9 Cash and Cash Equivalents The closing cash position is higher than budget due to delayed expenditure for capital and other projects during 2007/2008.

10 Trade and Other Receivables Current receivables are lower than budget as it was not necessary to raise accounts in June for capital and other projects that had been projected.

11 Inventory Inventory was lower than budget due to the lower that budgeted level of fuel and gravel & limestone stock piles.

12 Prepayments Council processed an insurance payment for the 2008/09 financial year.

13 Other Other current assets were lower than expected due to reduced revenue accruals for 2007/2008.

14 Trade and Other Receivables This item has increased as a result of a new Council loan to a community group.

15 Investment Properties; Land Increased value due to revaluation of these Asset Classes. and Buildings

16 Infrastructure - Roads and Other Increased value due to revaluation of these Asset Classes.

17 Furniture and Fittings Decreased value due to depreciation charge greater than budgeted.

18 Works in Progress The budget represents the movement in total assets, and is not distributed over the asset classes. The actual asset adjustments have been distributed to the correct asset class as at 30 June 2008.

19 Current Trade and Other Payables Current trade and other payables are higher than budget due to higher expenditure accruals for payroll; capital and other projects.

20 Current Provisions Increase in employee entitlements and the gravel pit restoration provisions.

21 Interest-bearing Loans and Borrowings Correct classification to non-current liability.

22 Non-current Provisions Increase in employee entitlements and landfill rehabilitation provisions.

23 Asset Revaluation Reserve The increase relates to the re-valuation of the majority of the Council’s Asset Classes and the budget was set before any asset revaluation adjustments were known .

The Standard Balance Sheet for the Annual Report shows the closing position of Council’s assets, liabilities and equity. The information in the Balance Sheet assists users in the assessment of the Council’s ability to meet financial commitments as they fall due including the servicing of borrowings, and retention of the net asset position.

glenelg shire annual report 07-08 59 standard cash flow statement for the year ended 30 june 2008

Budget Actual Inflows/ Inflows/ (Outflows) (Outflows) Variances 2008 2008 $’000 $’000 $’000 % Cash flows from operating activities Payments Employee Costs (12,002) (12,220) (218) 1.8 Contract Costs 24 (8,059) (9,295) (1,236) 15.3 Material Costs (3,041) (3,276) (235) 7.7 Other Expenses 25 (2,499) (1,959) 540 (21.6) Less Expenses Allocated to Investing Activities 26 1,285 1,516 231 18.0 GST on Payments 27 (1,500) (2,130) (630) 42.0 Total Payments (25,816) (27,364) (1,548) 6.0

Receipts Rate Receipts 15,630 15,643 13 0.1 User Fees and Charges 28 4,338 6,572 2,234 51.5 Interest 29 448 835 387 86.3 Government Grants - Operating 7,736 7,822 86 1.1 Government Grants - Capital 30 4,178 2,210 (1,968) (47.1) Other Receipts 2,076 2,275 199 9.6 GST on Receipts 31 600 699 99 16.5 Net GST Refunded 32 900 1,431 531 59.1 Total Receipts 35,907 37,487 1,580 4.4 Net cash provided by operating activities 10,090 10,123 33 0.3

Cash flows from investing activities Payments for Property, Plant and Equipment 33 (14,330) (8,772) 5,558 (38.8) Proceeds from Land and Building Sales 34 509 - (509) (100.0) Plant and Equipment Sales 35 331 195 (136) (41.0)

840 195 (645) (76.7)

Net cash used in investing activities (13,490) (8,577) 4,913 (36.4)

Cash flows from financing activities

Repayment of Borrowings (545) (545) (0) 0.0 Proceeds from Borrowings 36 300 - (300) (100.0) Interest and other Finance Charges (230) (230) (0) 0.0

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities (475) (775) (300) 63.2

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 37 (3,875) 771 4,646 (119.9)

Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the year 10,579 11,537 958 9.1

Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the year 6,704 12,309 5,605 83.6

60 glenelg shire annual report 07-08 standard cash flow statement VARIANCE EXPLANATION REPORT

Note Item Explanation

24 Contract Costs Additional expenditure in the areas of waste management; aquatic centres; limestone quarry and special projects relating to the receipt of ‘one off’ Government Grants including some projects that were undertaken on behalf of Community Groups. 25 Other Expenses Other expenses are less due to lower than budgeted expenditure and the re-classification of some expenditure items. 26 Less Expenses Allocated to The level of internal plant hire, gravel resources and salary oncosts used Investing Activities on capital works was greater than original estimates. 27 GST on Payments Higher than budgeted GST payments due to additional expenditure.

28 User Fees and Charges Higher than budget due to a decrease in debtor receivables.

29 Interest Investment income received was greater than budget due to the increased cash reserves through out the year and the timing of cash flows. 30 Government Grants - Capital Lower cash realised due to the grant for the Portland Family and Children’s Services Complex not being received due to the delay in the commencement of the project and lower than anticipated capital road funding.

31 GST on Receipts and Net GST The original budget was based on historical figures and higher than and Refunded budgeted GST payments on expenditure. 32 33 Payments for Property, Plant and Capital expenditure not incurred relates to buildings, local road projects, Equipment parks and gardens and plant and equipment. 34 Land and Building Sales Council has not completed its land and building sales as stated in the budget, due to the deferral of the construction of the Portland Children’s and Family Services Complex. 35 Plant and Equipment Sales Plant & Motor Vehicle sales were not completed and are offset by capital expenditure savings for plant purchases. 36 Proceeds from Borrowings Council has not taken up the budgeted loan due to the deferral of the construction of the Portland Children’s and Family Services Complex. 37 Net increase (decrease) in cash held The net variance resulted from the combination of variances 24 to 37 above. 38 Cash and cash equivalents at the The opening cash position is higher than budget due to delayed beginning of the year expenditure for capital and other projects during 2006/2007.

The Standard Cash Flow Statement for the Annual Report shows what has happened during the year in terms of cash. It explains what cash movements have resulted in the difference in the cash balance at the beginning and the end of the year.

The net cash flows from operating activities shows how much cash remains, after paying for the provision of services to the community, which may include things such as capital works.

The information in the Standard Cash Flow Statement assists users in the assessment of the ability to generate cash flows, meet financial commitments as they fall due including the servicing of borrowings, fund changes in the scope or nature of activities and obtain external finance.

glenelg shire annual report 07-08 61 standard capital works statement for the year ended 30 june 2008

Budget Actual Variances 2008 2008 $’000 $’000 $’000 % Capital Works Bridges and Major Culverts (8) (4) 4 (48.7) Buildings 39 (3,296) (992) 2,304 (69.9) Drainage 40 (100) (73) 27 (27.4) Local Roads; Kerb and Channel and Footpaths 41 (8,016) (5,841) 2,175 (27.1) Other Works 42 (558) (230) 328 (58.7) Public Open Space and Urban Design 43 (836) (652) 184 (22.0) Plant and Equipment 44 (1,010) (493) 517 (51.2) Swimming Pools (365) (375) (10) 2.7 Waste Management (141) (124) 17 (12.3)

Total Capital Works (14,330) (8,785) 5,545 (38.7)

Capital Works represented by: New Assets 45 (4,113) (1,898) 2,215 (53.9) Upgrade Assets 46 (4,916) (3,469) 1,447 (29.4) Asset Renewals 47 (5,301) (3,418) 1,883 (35.5)

Total Capital Funding (14,330) (8,785) 5,545 (38.7)

Capital Funding Capital Grants/Contributions 48 4,178 2,555 (1,623) (38.8) Asset Sales 49 840 195 (645) (76.7) Loan Borrowings 50 300 - (300) (100.0) Council Contribution 51 9,012 6,034 (2,978) (33.0)

Total Capital Funding 14,330 8,785 (5,545) (38.7)

62 glenelg shire annual report 07-08 standard capital works statement VARIANCE EXPLANATION REPORT

Note Item Explanation 39 Buildings Capital expenditure on buildings was less than budget primarily due to the Portland Children’s and Family Services Complex not being completed. This has been re-budgeted in the 2008/2009 financial year.

40 Drainage Drainage expenditure is lower than budget due to delays in projects, which have been carried forward to 2008/2009.

41 Local Roads; Kerb and Channel Expenditure on various projects is lower than budget due to delays in and Footpaths projects, which have been carried forward to 2008/2009.

42 Other Works Expenditure on various projects is lower than budget due to delays in projects, which have been carried forward to 2008/2009.

43 Public Open Space and Urban Design Expenditure on various projects is lower than budget due to delays in projects, which have been carried forward to 2008/2009.

44 Plant and Equipment Plant & motor vehicle purchases were not completed and will be carried forward to the 2008/2009 financial year.

45 New Assets The major reason for less expenditure than budget relates primarily to the delay in the construction of Portland Children’s and Family Services Complex. This has been re-budgeted in the 2008/2009 financial year.

46 Upgrade Assets Expenditure for asset upgrades is lower than the budget due to the delays in various Projects.

47 Asset Renewals Expenditure for asset renewals is lower than the budget due to the delays in various Projects.

48 Capital Grants/Contributions Lower income realised due to the grant for the Portland Family and Children’s Services Complex not being received due to the delay in the commencement of the project and lower than anticipated capital road funding.

49 Asset Sales Property and Plant & Motor Vehicle sales were not achieved in accordance within the budget period.

50 Loan Borrowings Council has not taken up the budgeted loan due to the deferral of the construction of the Portland Children’s and Family Services Complex.

51 Council Contribution Council’s contribution to the Capital program is lower due to the delay in the delivery of various projects.

The Standard Capital Works Statement for the Annual Report shows the expenditure on various capital projects. The information in the Capital Works Statement assists users in the assessment of the Council’s ability to complete a wide range of capital works within the financial year stipulated and within budget constraints.

glenelg shire annual report 07-08 63 notes to the standard statements

1 Basis of preparation of Standard Statements

Council is required to prepare and include audited Standard Statements within its Annual Report.

These statements and supporting notes form a special purpose financial report prepared to meet the requirements of the Local Government Act 1989 and Local Government (Finance and Reporting) Regulations 2004.

The Standard Statements have been prepared on accounting bases consistent with those used for the General Purpose Financial Statements and the Budget. The results reported in these statements are consistent with those reported in the General Purpose Financial Statements.

The Standard Statements are not a substitute for the General Purpose Financial Statements, which are included on pages 55 to 65 of the Annual Report. They have not been prepared in accordance with all Australian Accounting Standards or other authoritative professional pronouncements.

The Standard Statements compare Council’s financial plan, expressed through its Budget, with actual performance. The Local Government Act 1989 requires explanation of any material variances. The Council has adopted a materiality threshold of $500,000 variance or where the percentage is greater than ten per cent. Explanations have not been provided for variations below the materiality threshold unless the variance is considered to be material because of its nature.

The Budget figures included in the Statements are those adopted by Council on 24 July 2007. The Budget was based on assumptions that were relevant at the time of adoption of the Budget. The Council set guidelines and parameters for revenue and expense targets in this Budget in order to meet the Council Plan and financial performance targets for both the short and long term. The Budget did not reflect any changes to equity resulting from asset revaluations, as their impacts were not considered predictable.

Detailed information on the actual financial results are contained in the General Purpose Financial Statements on pages 66 to 104. The detailed Budget can be obtained by contacting Council or through the Council’s website. The Standard Statements must be read with reference to these documents.

64 glenelg shire annual report 07-08 certification of the standard statements

In my opinion the accompanying standard statements have been prepared on accounting bases consistent with the financial statements and in accordance with the Local Government Act 1989 and the Local Government (Finance and Reporting) Regulations 2004.

Linda MacRae PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING OFFICER Date: September 11, 2008

In our opinion the accompanying standard statements have been prepared on accounting bases consistent with the financial statements and in accordance with the Local Government Act 1989 and the Local Government (Finance and Reporting) Regulations 2004.

As at the date of signing, we are not aware of any circumstances which would render any particulars in the standard statements to be misleading or inaccurate.

We have been authorised by the Council on 9 September 2008 to certify the standard statements in their final form.

Geoff White COUNCILLOR Date: September 11, 2008

Gilbert Wilson COUNCILLOR Date: September 11, 2008

Stuart Burdack CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Date: September 11, 2008

glenelg shire annual report 07-08 65 General Purpose Financial Statements table of contents

Financial Statements Income Statement 67 Balance Sheet 68 Statement of Changes in Equity 69 Cash Flow Statement 70

Notes to Financial Statements Introduction 71 Note 1 Significant accounting policies 71 Note 25 Other Structures 84 Note 2 Change in Accounting Policy 78 Note 26 Plant and Equipment 85 Note 3 Rate Income 79 Note 27 Furniture and Fittings 85 Note 4 User Fees and Charges 79 Note 28 Heritage 85 Note 5 Operating Grants and Subsidies 79 Note 29 Works in Progress 85 Note 6 Other Income 80 Note 30 Fixed Asset Movements 86 Note 7 Capital Grants, Subsidies and Note 31 Trade and Other Payables 87 Contributions 81 Note 32 Interest-bearing Loans and Borrowings 87 Note 8 Employee Expenses 81 Note 33 Provisions 88 Note 9 Contract Expenses 81 Note 34 Reserves 89 Note 10 Material Expenses 81 Note 35 Adjustments directly to Equity 89 Note 11 Finance Fees and Interest 81 Note 36 Reconciliation of result from ordinary Note 12 Other Expenses 81 activities with net cash from operations 90 Note 13 Depreciation and Amortisation 82 Note 37 Commitments for Expenditure 91 Note 14 Internal Cost Allocations (Capitalised) 82 Note 38 Contingent Liabilities and Contingent Note 15 Net Gain (Loss) on Disposal of Assets 82 Assets 91 Note 16 Recognition of Previously Note 39 Superannuation 91 Unrecognised Non-Current Assets 82 Note 40 Financial Instruments 93 Note 17 Investments in Associates 82 Note 41 Related Party Transactions 97 Note 18 Cash and Cash Equivalents 83 Note 42 Revenues, Expenses and Assets Note 19 Trade and Other Receivables 83 by Function/Activity 99 Note 20 Investment Properties 83 Note 43 Financial Ratios 100 Note 21 Land 84 Note 22 Buildings 84 Certification of the Financial Report 102 Note 23 Infrastructure - Roads 84 Note 24 Infrastructure - Other 84 Auditor-General’s Report on Financial Report 103

66 glenelg shire annual report 07-08 income statement for the year ended 30 june 2008

Note 2008 2007 $’000 $’000

Revenues Revenue from ordinary activities Rate Income 3 15,659 14,929 User Fees and Charges 4 4,385 4,142 Operating Grants and Subsidies 5 8,222 7,781 Investment Income 835 629 Other Income 6 2,675 2,005 Capital Grants, Subsidies and Contributions 7 2,555 4,539

Total Revenue 34,331 34,025

Expenses Expenses from ordinary activities Employee Expenses 8 12,285 10,925 Contract Expenses 9 9,122 7,848 Material Expenses 10 3,276 3,087 Finance Fees and Interest 11 230 274 Other Expenses 12 2,486 2,551 Depreciation and Amortisation 13 6,461 6,274 Internal Cost Allocations Capitalised 14 (1,516) (1,406)

Total Expenses 32,344 29,553

Net Gain (Loss) on Disposal of Assets 15 68 186 Recognition of Previously Unrecognised Non-Current Assets 16 380 359 Share of net profits (losses) of associates and joint ventures accounted for by the equity method 17 - - Assets Written Off (106) (142) Increment (Decrement) in Fair Values of Investment Properties 409 -

Surplus (Deficit) for the reporting period 2,739 4,876

The above statement should be read with the accompanying notes.

glenelg shire annual report 07-08 67 balance sheet as at 30 june 2008

Note 2008 2007 $’000 $’000 Assets Current assets Cash and Cash Equivalents 18 12,309 11,537 Trade and Other Receivables 19 1,862 3,232 Inventory 193 106 Prepayments 649 273 Other 195 315

Total current assets 15,208 15,463

Non-current assets Trade and Other Receivables 19 13 3 Investments in Associates 17 13 13 Investment Properties 20 2,168 1,743 Land 21 20,466 19,763 Buildings 22 33,560 31,227 Infrastructure - Roads 23 130,943 127,653 Infrastructure - Other 24 70,911 59,282 Other Structures 25 3,461 3,566 Plant and Equipment 26 4,775 5,093 Furniture and Fittings 27 376 470 Heritage 28 3,152 3,152 Works in Progress 29 2,000 845

Total non-current assets 271,838 252,810 Total Assets 287,046 268,273

Liabilities Current liabilities Trade and Other Payables 31 2,348 2,372 Interest-bearing Loans and Borrowings 32 579 545 Provisions 33 2,338 2,244

Total current liabilities 5,265 5,161

Non-current liabilities Interest-bearing Loans and Borrowings 32 1,829 2,408 Provisions 33 5,552 5,204

Total non-current liabilities 7,381 7,612 Total Liabilities 12,646 12,773

Net Assets 274,400 255,500

Represented by: Accumulated Surplus 128,565 125,826 Asset Revaluation Reserve 34 145,835 129,674

Equity 274,400 255,500

The above statement should be read with the accompanying notes.

68 glenelg shire annual report 07-08 statement of changes in equity for the year ended 30 june 2008

Notes Asset Asset Accumulated Accumulated Revaluation Revaluation Total Total Surplus Surplus Reserve Reserve 2008 2007 2008 2007 2008 2007 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000

Balance at beginning of the financial year 255,500 250,399 125,826 120,950 129,674 129,449

Surplus (deficit) for the year 2,739 4,876 2,739 4,876 - -

Net asset revaluation increment(decrement) 34 16,161 225 - - 16,161 225

Balance at end of the financial year 274,400 255,500 128,565 125,826 145,835 129,674

The above statement should be read with the accompanying notes.

glenelg shire annual report 07-08 69 cash flow statement for the year ended 30 june 2008

Inflows/ Inflows/ (Outflows) (Outflows) 2008 2007 Notes $’000 $’000 Cash flows from operating activities Payments Employee Costs (12,220) (10,794) Contract Costs (9,295) (7,202) Material Costs (3,276) (3,087) Other Expenses (1,959) (2,021) Less Expenses Allocated to Investing Activities 1,516 1,406 GST on Payments (2,130) (1,646) Total Payments (27,364) (23,344)

Receipts Rate Receipts 15,643 14,669 User Fees and Charges 6,572 3,935 Interest 835 629 Government Grants - Operating 7,822 7,381 Government Grants - Capital 2,210 5,421 Other Receipts 2,275 1,934 GST on Receipts 699 702 Net GST Refunded 1,431 944 Total Receipts 37,487 35,615 Net cash provided by operating activities 36 10,123 12,271

Cash flows from investing activities Payments for Property, Plant and Equipment (8,772) (8,821) Proceeds Land and Building Sales - - Plant and Equipment Sales 15 195 432 195 432 Net cash used in investing activities (8,577) (8,389)

Cash flows from financing activities

Repayment of Borrowings (545) (888) Interest and other Finance Charges 11 (230) (274)

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities (775) (1,162)

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 771 2,720 Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the year 11,537 8,817

Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the year 18 12,309 11,537

Financing Arrangements 32

Restrictions on Cash Assets 18

The above statement should be read with the accompanying notes.

70 glenelg shire annual report 07-08 notes to the financial report for the year ended 30 june 2008

Introduction (a) The Glenelg Shire Council was established by an Order of the Governor in Council on 23 September 1994 and is a body corporate. (b) The purpose of the Council is to: - provide for the peace, order and good government of its municipal district; - to promote the social, economic and environmental viability and sustainability of the municipal district; - to ensure that resources are used efficiently and effectively and services are provided in accordance with the Best Value Principles to best meet the needs of the local community; - to improve the overall quality of life of people in the local community; - to promote appropriate business and employment opportunities; - to ensure that services and facilities provided by the Council are accessible and equitable; - to ensure the equitable imposition of rates and charges; and - to ensure transparency and accountability in Council decision making.

This financial report is a general purpose financial report that consists of an Income Statement, Balance Sheet, Statement of Changes in Equity, Cash Flow Statement, and notes accompanying these financial statements. The general purpose financial report complies with Australian Accounting Standards, other authoritative pronouncements of the Australian Accounting Standards Board, the Local Government Act 1989, and the Local Government (Finance and Reporting) Regulations 2004.

The Council is an entity to which AAS 27 “Financial Reporting by Local Governments” applies and the entity has applied a requirement in that Standard that overrides the requirements in an Australian equivalent to IFRS.

Except to the extent that these special provisions require, this financial report complies with the Australian equivalents to IFRS (AIFRS).

The Council has elected not to restate comparative information of financial instruments within the scope of AASB132 “Financial Instruments Disclosure and Presentation” and AASB139 “Financial Instruments Recognition and Measurement”, as permitted on the first time adoption of AIFRS.

Note 1 Significant accounting policies

(a) Basis of accounting This financial report has been prepared on the accrual and going concern basis.

This financial report has been prepared under the historical cost convention, except where specifically stated in notes 1(f), 1(h), and 1(j).

Unless otherwise stated, all accounting policies are consistent with those applied in the prior year. Where appropriate, comparative figures have been amended to accord with current presentation, and disclosure has been made of any material changes to comparatives.

All entities controlled by Council that have material assets or liabilities, such as Special Committees of Management, have been included in this financial report. All transactions between these entities and the Council have been eliminated in full.

glenelg shire annual report 07-08 71 notes to the financial report for the year ended 30 june 2008

Note 1 Significant accounting policies (cont.)

(b) Revenue recognition

Rates, grants and contributions

Rates, grants and contributions (including developer contributions) are recognised as revenues when the Council obtains control over the assets comprising these receipts.

Control over assets acquired from rates is obtained at the commencement of the rating year as it is an enforceable debt linked to the rateable property or, where earlier, upon receipt of the rates.

A provision for doubtful debts on rates has not been established as unpaid rates represents a charge against the rateable property that will be recovered when the property is next sold.

Control over granted assets is normally obtained upon their receipt (or acquittal) or upon earlier notification that a grant has been secured, and are valued at their fair value at the date of transfer.

Income is recognised when the Council obtains control of the contribution or the right to receive the contribution. It is probable that the economic benefits comprising the contribution will flow to the Council and the amount of the contribution can be measured reliably.

Where grants or contributions recognised as revenues during the financial year were obtained on condition that they be expended in a particular manner or used over a particular period and those conditions were undischarged at balance date, the unused grant or contribution is disclosed in note 5. The note also discloses the amount of unused grant or contribution from prior years that was expended on Council’s operations during the current year.

A liability is recognised in respect of revenue that is reciprocal in nature to the extent that the requisite service has not been provided at balance date.

User charges, fees and fines

User charges, fees and fines (including parking fees and fines) are recognised as revenue when the service has been provided, the payment is received, or when the penalty has been applied, whichever first occurs.

A provision for doubtful debts is recognised when collection in full is no longer probable.

Sale of property, infrastructure, plant and equipment

The profit or loss on sale of an asset is determined when control of the asset has irrevocably passed to the buyer.

Interest and rents

Interest and rents are recognised as revenue on a proportional basis when the payment is due, the value of the payment is notified, or the payment is received, whichever first occurs.

72 glenelg shire annual report 07-08 notes to the financial report for the year ended 30 june 2008

Note 1 Significant accounting policies (cont.)

(c) Depreciation and amortisation of non-current assets

Buildings, infrastructure, plant and equipment, and other assets having limited useful lives are systematically depreciated over their useful lives to the Council in a manner which reflects consumption of the service potential embodied in those assets. Estimates of remaining useful lives and residual values are made on a regular basis with major asset classes reassessed annually. Depreciation rates and methods are reviewed annually.

Where infrastructure assets have separate identifiable components that are subject to regular replacement, these components are assigned distinct useful lives and/or residual values and a separate depreciation rate is determined for each component.

Straight line depreciation is charged based on the residual useful life as determined each year. Road earthworks are not depreciated. Due to the appreciating nature of heritage assets, no depreciation is charged in relation to these items.

Major depreciation periods used are listed below and are consistent with the prior year unless otherwise stated: Period Buildings Buildings 50 to 100 years

Plant and equipment Plant and equipment 5 to 10 years Furniture and fittings 5 to 20 years

Infrastructure Roads 15 to 50 years Other structures 10 to 100 years

(d) Repairs and maintenance

Routine maintenance, repair costs, and minor renewal costs are expensed as incurred. Where the repair relates to the replacement of a component of an asset and the cost exceeds the capitalisation threshold the cost is capitalised and depreciated. The carrying value of the replaced asset is expensed.

(e) Borrowing costs

Borrowing costs are recognised as an expense in the period in which they are incurred, except where they are capitalised as part of a qualifying asset constructed by Council. Except where specific borrowings are obtained for the purpose of specific asset acquisition, the weighted average interest rate applicable to borrowings at balance date, excluding borrowings associated with superannuation, is used to determine the borrowing costs to be capitalised.

Borrowing costs include interest on bank overdrafts, and interest on borrowings.

glenelg shire annual report 07-08 73 notes to the financial report for the year ended 30 june 2008

Note 1 Significant accounting policies (cont.)

(f) Recognition and measurement of assets

Acquisition

The purchase method of accounting is used for all acquisitions of assets, being the fair value of assets provided as consideration at the date of acquisition plus any incidental costs attributable to the acquisition. Fair value is the amount for which the asset could be exchanged between knowledgeable willing parties in an arm’s length transaction.

Where assets are constructed by Council, cost includes all materials used in construction, direct labour, and an appropriate share of directly attributable variable and fixed overheads.

The following classes of assets have been recognised in note 30. In accordance with Council’s policy, the threshold limits detailed below have applied when recognising assets within an applicable asset class and unless otherwise stated are consistent with the prior year. Threshold Limit Class of asset Land and buildings Land 1,000 Buildings 1,000

Heritage assets Heritage assets 1,000

Plant and equipment Plant and equipment 1,000 Furniture and fittings 1,000

Infrastructure Roads 10,000 Other Infrastructure 10,000 Other structures 10,000

Revaluation

Subsequent to the initial recognition of assets, non-current physical assets, other than plant & equipment, other structures and furniture & fittings, are measured at their fair value, being the amount for which the assets could be exchanged between knowledgeable willing parties in an arms length transaction. At balance date, the Council reviewed the carrying value of the individual classes of assets measured at fair value to ensure that each asset materially approximated its fair value. Where the carrying value materially differed from the fair value at balance date the class of asset was revalued.

In addition, Council undertakes a formal revaluation of land, buildings, and infrastructure assets on a regular basis ranging from 3 to 5 years. The valuation is performed either by experienced council officers or independent experts.

Where the assets are revalued, the revaluation increments are credited directly to the asset revaluation reserve except to the extent that an increment reverses a prior year decrement for that class of asset that had been recognised as an expense in which case the increment is recognised as revenue up to the amount of the expense. Revaluation decrements are recognised as an expense except where prior increments are included in the asset revaluation reserve for that class of asset in which case the decrement is taken to the reserve to the extent of the remaining increments. Within the same class of assets, revaluation increments and decrements within the year are offset.

74 glenelg shire annual report 07-08 notes to the financial report for the year ended 30 june 2008

Note 1 Significant accounting policies (cont.)

(f) Recognition and measurement of assets (cont.)

Land under roads

The Council has elected not to recognise land under roads as an asset in accordance with AASB 1045 Land under Roads, which extends the requirement to recognise and measure land under roads as an asset of Council until 30 June 2008.

(g) Cash and cash equivalents

For the purposes of the statement of cash flows, cash and cash equivalents include cash on hand, deposits at call, and other highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less, net of outstanding bank overdrafts.

(h) Other financial assets

Managed funds are valued at fair value, being market value, at balance date. Any unrealised gains and losses on holdings at balance date are recognised as either a revenue or expense.

(i) Investments

Investments, other than investments in associates, are measured at cost.

(j) Accounting for investments in associates

Council’s investment in associates is accounted for by the equity method as the Council has the ability to influence rather than control the operations of the entities. The investment is initially recorded at the cost of acquisition and adjusted thereaft er for post-acquisition changes in the Council’s share of the net assets of the entities. The Council’s share of the financial result of the entities is recognised in the income statement.

(k) Tender deposits

Amounts received as tender deposits and retention amounts controlled by Council are recognised as payables (trust funds) until they are returned or forfeited (refer to note 31).

(l) Employee benefits

Wages and salaries

Liabilities for wages and salaries and rostered days off are recognised and are measured as the amount unpaid at balance date and include appropriate oncosts such as work cover charges.

Annual leave

Annual leave entitlements are accrued on a pro rata basis in respect of services provided by employees up to balance date. Annual leave expected to be paid within 12 months is measured at nominal value based on the amount, including appropriate oncosts, expected to be paid when settled. Annual leave expected to be paid later than one year has been measured at the present value of the estimated future cash outflows to be made for these accrued entitlements. Commonwealth bond rates are used for discounting future cash flows.

glenelg shire annual report 07-08 75 notes to the financial report for the year ended 30 june 2008

Note 1 Significant accounting policies (cont.)

(l) Employee benefits (cont.)

Long service leave

Long service leave entitlements payable are assessed at balance date having regard to expected employee remuneration rates on settlement, employment related oncosts and other factors including accumulated years of employment, on settlement, and experience of employee departure per year of service. Long service leave expected to be paid within 12 months is measured at nominal value based on the amount expected to be paid when settled. Long service leave expected to be paid later than one year has been measured at the present value of the estimated future cash outflows to be made for these accrued entitlements. Commonwealth bond rates are used for discounting future cash flows.

Classification of Employee Benefits

An employee benefit liability is classified as a current liability if the Council does not have an unconditional right to defer settlement of the liability for at least 12 months after the end of the period. This would include all annual leave and unconditional long service leave entitlements.

Superannuation

A liability is recognised in respect of Council’s present obligation to meet the unfunded obligations of defined benefit superannuation schemes to which its employees are members. The liability is defined as the Council’s share of the scheme’s unfunded position, being the difference between the present value of employees’ accrued benefits and the net market value of the scheme’s assets at balance date. The liability also includes applicable contributions tax of 17.65%.

The superannuation expense for the reporting year is the amount of the statutory contribution the Council makes to the superannuation plan which provides benefits to its employees together with any movements (favourable/unfavourable) in the position of any defined benefits schemes. Details of these arrangements are detailed in note 39.

Retirement gratuities

Retirement gratuities were provided to certain employees who joined the Council prior to December 1994. The liability represents a set proportion of accumulated sick leave that is payable on retirement. At balance date, the liability is measured at the present value of estimated future cash flows to be made for this entitlement.

(m) Leases

Operating leases

Lease payments for operating leases are recognised as an expense in the years in which they are incurred as this reflects the pattern of benefits derived by the Council.

(n) Allocation between current and non-current

In the determination of whether an asset or liability is current or non-current, consideration is given to the time when each asset or liability is expected to be settled. The asset or liability is classified as current if it is expected to be settled within the next twelve months, being the Council’s operational cycle, or if the Council does not have an unconditional right to defer settlement of a liability for at least twelve months after the reporting date.

76 glenelg shire annual report 07-08 notes to the financial report for the year ended 30 june 2008

Note 1 Significant accounting policies (cont.)

(o) Agreements equally proportionately unperformed

The Council does not recognise assets and liabilities arising from agreements that are equally proportionately unperformed in the balance sheet. Such agreements are recognised on an ‘as incurred’ basis.

(p) Web site costs

Costs in relation to websites are charged as an expense in the period in which they are incurred.

(q) Impairment of assets

At each reporting date, the Council reviews the carrying value of its assets to determine whether there is any indication that these assets have been impaired. If such an indication exists, the recoverable amount of the asset, being the higher of the asset’s fair value less costs to sell and value in use, is compared to the assets carrying value. Any excess of the assets carrying value over its recoverable amount is expensed to the income statement.

(r) Joint ventures

Glenelg Primary Care Partnerships

The Council recognises its interest in the Glenelg Primary Care Partnership by recording an investment in its financial statements at a value based on the Council’s underlying interest in the net assets of the Partnership as disclosed in the unaudited annual financial statements of the partnership. Annual adjustments are credited/debited to the balance sheet in line with equity accounting principles.

(s) Rounding

Unless otherwise stated, amounts in the financial report have been rounded to the nearest thousand dollars.

(t) Non-current assets held for sale

A non-current asset held for sale is measured at the lower of its carrying amount and fair value less costs to sell.

(u) Investment property

Investment property, comprising freehold office complexes, is held to generate long-term rental yields. All tenant leases are on arms length basis. Investment property is measured initially at cost, including transaction costs. After initial recognition, investment property is carried at fair value, determined annually by independent valuers. Changes to fair value are recorded in the income statement.

(v) Inventories

Inventories held for distribution are measured at cost adjusted when applicable for any loss of service potential.

Other inventories are measured at the lower of cost and net realisable value.

(w) Financial guarantees

Financial guarantee contracts are recognised as a liability at the time the guarantee is issued. The liability is initially measured at fair value, and if there is material increase in the likelihood that the guarantee may have to be exercised, at the higher of the amount determined in accordance with AASB 137 Provisions, Contingent Liabilities and Contingent Assets and the amount initially recognised less cumulative amortisation, where appropriate. In the determination of fair value, consideration is given to factors including the probability of default by the guaranteed party and the likely loss to Council in the event of default.

glenelg shire annual report 07-08 77 notes to the financial report for the year ended 30 june 2008

Note 2 Change in Accounting Policy

The following Australian Accounting Standards have been issued or amended and are applicable to the Council but are not yet effective. They have not been adopted in preparation of the financial statements at reporting date.

AASB amendment Standards affected Outline of amendment Application Application date of date for Standard Council

AASB 2006-3 AAS 27 From the beginning of the reporting period October 1 July Amendments to Financial Reporting to which this Standard is first applied, 2006 2008 Australian by Local Governments until the end of the first reporting period Accounting ending on or after 31 December 2007, Standards AASB 1045 transitional provisions shall apply. Under Land Under Roads: those provisions, local governments, while Amendments to AAS encouraged to apply the full provisions 27A, AAS 29A and of this Standard, may elect instead not to AAS 31A recognise land under roads as an asset in the balance sheet.

AASB 1004 AAS 27 As this Standard broadly reproduces the 1 July 1 July Contributions Financial Reporting requirements relating to contributions 2008 2008 by Local Governments contained in AAS 27, there will be no direct impact on the financial report.

AASB 1051 AAS 27 In respect to land under roads acquired 1 July 1 July Land Under Roads Financial Reporting before 30 June 2008: allows a Council to 2008 2008 by Local Governments elect to recognise or not to recognise an asset; requires any adjustment upon recognition to be made against accumulated surplus; requires a Council to disclose its accounting policy; allows a Council to elect to adopt the fair value or a previous revaluation; requires any above elections to be made effective as at 1 July 2008. Requires that land under roads acquired after 30 June 2008 is accounted for in accordance with AASB 116. The impact of any changes that may be required cannot be reliably estimated and is not disclosed in the financial report.

AASB 1052 AAS 27 As this Standard broadly reproduces the 1 July 1 July Disaggregated Financial Reporting requirements relating to disaggregated 2008 2008 Disclosures by Local Governments disclosures contained in AAS 27, there will be no direct impact on the financial report.

AASB 2007-9 AAS 27 As this Standard broadly reproduces the 1 July 1 July Amendments to Financial Reporting requirements relating to certain relevant 2008 2008 Australian by Local Governments requirements contained in AAS 27, there Accounting will be no direct impact on the financial Standards arising Amendments to: report. from the Review of AASB 3, AASB 5, AASs 27, AASB 8, AASB 101, 29 and 31 AASB 114, AASB 116, AASB 127, AASB 137

78 glenelg shire annual report 07-08 notes to the financial report for the year ended 30 june 2008

2008 2007 $’000 $’000

Note 3 Rate Income

Council uses Capital Improved Value as the basis of valuation of all properties within the municipal district. The valuation base used to calculate general rates for 2007/2008 was $4,125 million (2006/2007 $4,104 million).

Residential 4,103 3,880 Industrial - Agreement 4,057 3,901 Commercial 1,047 1,001 Farm/Rural 4,690 4,550 Timber Developed 1,746 1,582 Cultural and Recreation 16 15

15,659 14,929

The date of the last general revaluation of land for rating purposes within the municipal district was 1 January 2006, and the valuation first applied to the rating period commencing 1 July 2006.

The date of the next general revaluation of land for rating purposes within the municipal district is 1 January 2008, and the valuation will be first applied in the rating year commencing 1 July 2008.

Note 4 User Fees and Charges

Animal Registration Fees 79 77 Application/Licence/Permit Fees 416 367 Parking Fines 11 16 State Government Levy 10 16 Public Open Space Levy 40 128 Other Fines 36 28 Garbage Fees 1,052 987 Property Lease/Rental Fees 135 131 Service Fees 2,505 2,306 Booking Fees 14 17 Other Fees and Charges 87 69

4,385 4,142

Note 5 Operating Grants and Subsidies

Victorian Grants Commission - General Purpose 2,960 2,850 Victorian Grants Commission - Local Roads 2,499 2,401 Operating Subsidy Income 461 387 Operating Grant/Subsidy Income - Other 2,302 2,143

8,222 7,781

glenelg shire annual report 07-08 79 notes to the financial report for the year ended 30 june 2008

Note 5 Operating Grants and Subsidies (cont.) 2008 2007 $’000 $’000 Conditions on Grants

(a) Grants recognised as revenue during the year that were obtained on condition that they be expended in a specified manner that had not occurred at balance date were:

Coastal Spaces Landscape Study 20 - Youth Services - Music Grant 10 - Cultural Strategy 31 - Health Promotion 56 - Library 10 - Arts & Cultural 240 - Road Furniture 37 - Aged Care 41 - Roads to Recovery - Supplementary Program (Capital) - 1,005 Local Infrastructure Works Program - Water Saving Projects (Capital) - 300 Auslink Funding - Westlakes Road and Cape Nelson Road ( Capital - 490 Portland Bay Coast Infrastructure Plan - 65 Great South West Walk Arts Project - 48

445 1,908

(b) Grants which were recognised as revenue in prior years and were expended during the current year in the manner specified by the grantor were:

Roads to Recovery - Supplementary Program (Capital) 661 427 Glenelg Strategic Futures Plan - 33 Great South West Walk Arts Project 48 21 Local Infrastructure Works Program - Water Saving Projects (Capital) 300 - Waste Water Management Plan - 12 Auslink Funding - Westlakes Road & Cape Nelson Road (Capital) 490 - Portland Bay Coast Infrastructure Plan 65 -

1,564 493

(c) Grants which were recognised as revenue in prior years and were unexpended in the manned specified by the grantor, in addition to those specified in (a) above, were:

Roads to Recovery - Supplementary Program (Capital) 344 - Portland Family and Children’s Services Complex 427 -

771 - Note 6 Other Income

Cash Sponsorships 5 - Cash Contributions - Operating 238 21 Reimbursement - Insurance Claims - 1 Reimbursement - Work Cover 93 90 Reimbursement - Debt and Legal Costs 103 82 Reimbursement - VIC Roads 1,363 1,073 Reimbursement - Private Works 445 396 Other Income 429 342

2,676 2,005

80 glenelg shire annual report 07-08 notes to the financial report for the year ended 30 june 2008

2008 2007 Note 7 Capital Grants, Subsidies and Contributions $’000 $’000

Capital Grants and Subsidies 2,120 4,534 Special Charge Scheme Contributions - - Cash Contributions - Capital 435 5

2,555 4,539

Note 8 Employee Expenses

Wages and Salaries 10,690 9,361 Salary Superannuation 907 829 Salary Other Expenses 1,309 1,251 Salary Expenses Capitalised (621) (516)

12,285 10,925

Note 9 Contract Expenses

Consultant Expenses 855 897 Operating Lease Expenses 146 170 Software Licence Expenses 280 299 Contract Expenses 7,224 6,283 Contract Labour Expenses 617 199

9,122 7,848

Note 10 Material Expenses

Material Expenses - General 1,410 1,496 Material Expenses - Gravel/Limestone 21 25 Utility Expenses 816 663 Stationary Expenses 124 153 Other Material Expenses 905 750

3,276 3,087

Note 11 Finance Fees and Interest

Finance Fees and Charges 51 50 Interest Expenses 179 224

230 274

Note 12 Other Expenses

Insurance 572 659 Advertising 305 284 Seminars and Training Course Fees 195 140 Travel and Accommodation 99 132 Communication Expenses 281 235 Statutory Expenses 209 195 Councillor Allowances 132 132 Auditor Remuneration 36 29 Bad Debts 12 6 Contributions and Donations 367 317 Landfill Provision Rehabilitation Adjustment - 133 Landfill Provision Finance Expense 221 243 Other 57 46

2,486 2,551

glenelg shire annual report 07-08 81 notes to the financial report for the year ended 30 june 2008

2008 2007 Note 13 Depreciation and Amortisation $’000 $’000

Buildings 972 986 Infrastructure - Roads 2,646 2,607 Infrastructure - Other 1,382 1,306 Other Structures 115 109 Plant and Equipment 1,220 1,154 Furniture and Fittings 126 112

6,461 6,274

Note 14 Internal Cost Allocations (Capitalised)

Vehicle and Machinery Allocations (947) (866) Staff Allocations (191) (276) Other Internal Cost Allocations (378) (264)

(1,516) (1,406)

Note 15 Net Gain (Loss) on Disposal of Assets

Plant and equipment

Proceeds from Sale of Assets 195 432 Written Down Value of Assets Sold (127) (246)

Gain (Loss) on Sale of Plant and Equipment 68 186

Summary Proceeds from Sale of Assets 195 432 Written Down Value of Assets Sold (127) (246)

Net Gain (Loss) on Disposal of Assets 68 186

Note 16 Recognition of Previously Unrecognised Non-Current Assets

Land 11 1 Infrastructure - Roads 128 111 Infrastructure - Other 232 243 Heritage Assets - 4 Buildings 2 - Other Structures 7 -

380 359

Note 17 Investment in Associates

Investments in associates accounted for by the equity method are: - Glenelg Primary Care Partnership 13 13

13 13 Represents Glenelg Shire Council contributing share of the net assets of the unaudited financial statements of the above associates for the financial year ended 30 June 2008. The services are established under joint agreements between participating councils who contribute on a cost sharing formula basis.

82 glenelg shire annual report 07-08 notes to the financial report for the year ended 30 june 2008

2008 2007 Note 18 Cash and Cash Equivalents $’000 $’000

Cash at Bank and On Hand 4,505 2,933 Term Deposits 7,804 8,604

Balance per Statement of Cash Flows 12,309 11,537

(a) Council has imposed the following restrictions on Cash at Bank: Cash - Restricted (Car Parking) 17 76 Cash - Restricted (Public Open Space Levy) 168 128 Cash - Restricted (Annual Leave) 1,355 1,121 Cash - Restricted (Pits Restoration) 540 510

2,080 1,835

(b) Term deposits carry the following restrictions imposed by regulations or other externally imposed restrictions: Investments - Committee Deposits * 187 174 Investments - Long Service Leave ** 1,800 1,600 Investments - MAP Shares 4 4 1,991 1,778 * Deposits held on behalf of various committees comprising Kurrajong elderly citizens fundraising, youth and Heritage advisory board deposits. ** These monies are required by legislation to fund employee long service leave entitlements.

Note 19 Trade and Other Receivables

Current Receivables - Rates 267 238 Receivables - Special Schemes 18 28 Receivables - General 1,168 2,634 Less Provision for Doubtful Debts (20) (11) Net GST receivable 429 343

1,862 3,232 Non-current Loans - Unsecured (Sporting and Community Groups) 13 3 13 3 Total 1,875 3,235

Note 20 Investment Properties

Investment Property - Land 1,888 1,174 Investment Property - Buildings 280 569 2,168 1,743 Valuation of investment property has been determined in accordance with an independent valuation by Southern Cross Property Services (Shane Irwin, AAPI) who has recent experience in the location and category of the property being valued.

glenelg shire annual report 07-08 83 notes to the financial report for the year ended 30 june 2008

2008 2007 Note 21 Land $’000 $’000

Freehold Land at Fair Value 20,452 17,113 Freehold Land at Cost 14 2,650

20,466 19,763 Freehold land was valued at fair market value based on existing use in June 2008, by Southern Cross Property Services (Shane Irwin, AAPI).

Note 22 Buildings

Buildings at Fair Value 77,740 66,885 Buildings at Cost 119 1,236 Less Accumulated Depreciation (44,299) (36,894)

33,560 31,227 Buildings were valued at depreciated replacement cost at June 2008, by Southern Cross Property Services (Shane Irwin, AAPI).

Note 23 Infrastructure - Roads

Infrastructure - Roads at Fair Value 196,053 159,267 Infrastructure - Roads at Cost 1,593 6,011 Less Accumulated Depreciation (66,703) (37,625)

130,943 127,653 Infrastructure - Roads were valued at their depreciated replacement cost at June 2008 by Glenelg Shire Council staff including Peter Gall, B.Eng and Stuart Ferrier, B.Eng.

Note 24 Infrastructure - Other

Infrastructure - Other at Fair Value 112,521 93,091 Infrastructure - Other at Cost 3,104 1,405 Less Accumulated Depreciation (44,714) (35,214)

70,911 59,282 Infrastructure - Other was valued at their depreciated replacement cost at June 2008 by Glenelg Shire Council staff including Peter Gall, B.Eng and Stuart Ferrier, B.Eng. Infrastructure - Other includes bridges, drains, war memorials, historical markers and various other minor structures controlled by the Council.

Note 25 Other Structures

Other Structures at Cost 5,864 5,856 Less Accumulated Depreciation (2,403) (2,290)

3,461 3,566

84 glenelg shire annual report 07-08 notes to the financial report for the year ended 30 june 2008

2008 2007 Note 26 Plant and Equipment $’000 $’000

Plant and Equipment at Cost 11,285 10,501 Less Accumulated Depreciation (6,510) (5,408)

4,775 5,093

Note 27 Furniture and Fittings

Furniture and Fittings at Cost 1,557 1,538 Less Accumulated Depreciation (1,181) (1,068)

376 470

Note 28 Heritage

Heritage Assets at Valuation 2,597 2,597 Heritage Assets at Cost 555 555

3,152 3,152 Heritage assets have been valued at either current cost or market value, depending on the nature of the asset. This asset class is non-depreciating. Heritage assets were valued in June 2005 by Leonard Joel Valuers.

Note 29 Works in Progress

Works in Progress at Cost (Various Projects under Construction) 2,000 845

2,000 845

glenelg shire annual report 07-08 85 notes to the financial report for the year ended 30 june 2008

Note 30 Fixed Asset Movements

2008 Land Buildings Infrastructure Infrastructure Other -Roads - Other Structures Balance at beginning of financial year: 19,763 31,226 127,654 59,282 3,566 Acquisition of assets - 608 4,337 1,578 7 Recognition of assets 12 1 128 231 7 Reclassifications and write-off of assets - (24) (24) (54) (4) Revaluation increments/(decrements) (note 34) 692 2,720 1,494 11,255 - Depreciation (note 13) - (972) (2,646) (1,382) (115) WDV of disposals (note 15) - - - - - Impairment losses recognised in Income Statement - - - - - Balance at end of financial year 20,467 33,559 130,943 70,910 3,461

Plant Furniture Heritage Works Total and and Assets in $’000 Equipment Fittings Progress Balance at beginning of financial year: 5,092 470 3,152 845 251,050 Acquisition of assets 1,030 32 - 14 7,606 Recognition of assets - - - - 379 Reclassifications and write-off of assets - - - 1,141 1,035 Revaluation increments/(decrements) (note 34) - - - - 16,161 Depreciation (note 13) (1,220) (126) - - (6,461) WDV of disposals (note 15) (127) - - - (127) Impairment losses recognised in Income Statement - - - - - Balance at end of financial year 4,775 376 3,152 2,000 269,642

2007 Land Buildings Infrastructure Infrastructure Other -Roads - Other Structures Balance at beginning of financial year: 19,768 31,612 124,331 59,631 3,431 Acquisition of assets - 641 5,900 727 19 Recognition of assets 1 - 111 243 - Reclassifications and write-off of assets (6) (41) (81) (13) (0) Revaluation increments/(decrements) (note 34) - - - - 225 Depreciation (note 13) - (986) (2,607) (1,306) (109) WDV of disposals (note 15) - - - - - Impairment losses recognised in Income Statement - - - - - Balance at end of financial year 19,763 31,226 127,654 59,282 3,566

Plant Furniture Heritage Works Total and and Assets in $’000 Equipment Fittings Progress Balance at beginning of financial year: 4,742 447 3,148 1,297 248,407 Acquisition of assets 1,750 135 - 845 10,018 Recognition of assets - - 4 - 359 Reclassifications and write-off of assets - - - (1,297) (1,438) Revaluation Increments - - - - 225 Depreciation (note 13) (1,154) (112) - - (6,274) WDV of disposals (note 15) (246) - - - (246) Impairment losses recognised in Income Statement - - - - - 5,092 470 3,152 845 251,051

(a) Impairment Losses

Impairment losses are recognised in the Income Statement under Other Expeneses. Reversals of impairment losses are recognised in the Income Statement under Other Revenue.

86 glenelg shire annual report 07-08 notes to the financial report for the year ended 30 june 2008

2008 2007 $’000 $’000 Note 31 Trade and Other Payables

Creditors - General 98 69 Creditors - Goods Received Not Invoiced 1,714 1,631 Creditors - Refundable Deposits 311 367 Creditors - Interest Accrual 46 56 Creditors - Other 2 25 Net GST payable 177 224 2,348 2,372

Note 32 Interest-bearing Loans and Borrowings

Current Borrowings - Secured 579 545 Non-Current Borrowings - Secured 1,829 2,408

2,408 2,953 The bank loans are secured over the rates of the Council.

The maturity profile for Council’s borrowings is: Not later than one year 579 545 Later than one year and not later than five years 1,742 2,096 Later than five years 87 312

2,408 2,953 Aggregate carrying amount of interest-bearing loans and borrowings: Current 579 545 Non-Current 1,829 2,408 2,408 2,953

Financing Arrangements Unrestricted access was available at balance date to the following lines of credit: Bank overdraft 4,000 4,000 Bank loan facilities 2,408 2,953 6,408 6,953 Facilities used at balance date: Bank loan facilities 2,408 2,953 Facilities available at balance date 4,000 4,000

The bank overdraft facilities may be drawn at any time and may be terminated by the bank without notice. Interest rates on loan facilities are fixed. Interest rates on overdraft facilities are variable.

glenelg shire annual report 07-08 87 notes to the financial report for the year ended 30 june 2008

Note 33 Provisions Long Annual Service Landfill Other Total Leave Leave Restoration $’000 2008 Balance at beginning of the year 1,121 1,328 4,429 570 7,448 Additional provisions 944 282 221 35 1,482 Amounts used (769) (265) - (6) (1,040) Balance at the end of the year 1,296 1,345 4,650 599 7,890

2007 Balance at beginning of the year 1,090 1,200 4,053 596 6,939 Additional provisions 770 335 376 63 1,544 Amounts used (739) (207) 0 (89) (1,035) Balance at the end of the year 1,121 1,328 4,429 570 7,448

2008 2007 $’000 $’000 Current Provision Gravel (Limestone) Pit Restoration 540 510 Employee Benefits 1,798 1,734 2,338 2,244 Non-current Employee Benefits 902 775 Provision Landfill Rehabilitation and Aftercare 4,650 4,429 5,552 5,204 Total 7,890 7,448

Employee benefits The aggregate employee benefit liability consists of:

Current Annual Leave 777 687 Employee Gratuity Scheme 18 24 Long Service Leave 1,003 1,023 1,798 1,734 Non-current Annual Leave 518 434 Employee Gratuity Scheme 41 36 Long Service Leave 342 305 901 775 Total 2,699 2,509

Aggregate carrying amount of employee benefits: Current 1,798 1,734 Non-Current 901 775 2,699 2,509

Total Actual Employees 329 329 Total Equivalent Full Time Staff Numbers 199 197

88 glenelg shire annual report 07-08 notes to the financial report for the year ended 30 june 2008

Note 34 Reserves

Asset revaluation reserve Land Buildings Infrastructure Infrastructure Roads Other 2008 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000

Balance at beginning of reporting period 15,273 22,989 66,724 23,855 Increment (decrement) 692 2,720 1,494 11,255 Balance at end of reporting period 15,965 25,709 68,218 35,110

Plant & Furniture Heritage Total Equipment & Fittings Assets 2008 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000

Balance at beginning of reporting period 456 365 12 129,674 Increment (decrement) - - - 16,161

Balance at end of reporting period 456 365 12 145,835

Asset revaluation reserve Land Buildings Infrastructure Infrastructure Roads Other 2007 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000

Balance at beginning of reporting period 15,273 22,989 66,724 23,630 Increment (decrement) - - - 225 Balance at end of reporting period 15,273 22,989 66,724 23,855

Plant & Furniture Heritage Total Equipment & Fittings Assets 2007 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000

Balance at beginning of reporting period 456 365 12 129,449 Increment (decrement) - - - 225

Balance at end of reporting period 456 365 12 129,674

Note 35 Adjustments directly to equity

There were no Adjustments directly to Equity

glenelg shire annual report 07-08 89 notes to the financial report for the year ended 30 june 2008

Note 36 Reconciliation of result from ordinary activities with net cash from operations 2008 2007 $’000 $’000

Result from Ordinary Activities 2,739 4,876

Items not involving cash: Depreciation and amortisation 6,462 6,274 Asset recognition (380) (359) Assets written off 106 142 (Increment) Decrement in fair values of investment properties (409) -

5,779 6,057 Investing activities: (Profit)/loss on disposal of fixed assets (67) (186)

Financing activities Interest and other Finance Charges 230 274

Change in assets and liabilities: (Increase)/decrease in current trade and other receivables 1,372 (938) (Increase)/decrease in non current trade and other receivables (10) 2 (Increase)/decrease in other operating assets (341) 882 Increase/(decrease) in trade and other payables (23) 795 Increase/(decrease) in other liabilities - - Increase/(decrease) in provisions 444 509 Increase/(decrease) in equity - - 1,442 1,250

Net cash inflow/(outflow) from operating activities 10,123 12,271

90 glenelg shire annual report 07-08 notes to the financial report for the year ended 30 june 2008

Note 37 Commitments for Expenditure

Capital Commitments Total capital expenditure contracted for at the reporting date, but not recognised in the financial statements as liabilities:

Not later than one year 187 241

Operating Leases At the reporting date, the Council had the following obligations under non-cancellable operating leases for the lease of equipment and land and buildings for use within Council’s activities (these obligations are not recognised as liabilities):

Not later than one year 157 135 Later than one year and not later than five years 111 91 Later than five years 117 79 385 305

Note 38 Contingent Liabilities and Contingent Assets

The Council has provided guarantees in respect of loans and overdrafts. The details and extent of the Council’s exposure at the reporting date is as follows:

Heywood Football Netball Club Bank Loan 21 18 21 18 Council currently has no contingent assets.

Note 39 Superannuation

Council makes employer superannuation contributions in respect of its employees to the Local Authorities Superannuation Fund (the Fund). Obligations for contributions are recognised as an expense in profit or loss when they are due. The Fund has two categories of membership, each of which is funded differently.

The Fund’s accumulation category, Vision Super Saver, receives both employer and employee contributions on a progressive basis. Employer contributions are normally based on a fixed percentage of employee earnings (9% required under Superannuation Guarantee Legislation). No further liability accrues to the employer as the superannuation benefits accruing to employees are represented by their share of the net assets of the Fund. From 1 July 2008, employers are required to pay superannuation contributions based on Ordinary Time Earnings (OTE) which may put upward pressure on contribution levels.

The Fund’s Defined Benefit Plan is a multi-employer sponsored plan. As the Fund’s assets and liabilities are pooled and are not allocated by employer, the Actuary is unable to reliably allocate benefit liabilities, assets and costs between employers. As provided under Paragraph 32 (b) of AASB 119, Council does not use defined benefit accounting for these contributions.

Council makes employer contributions to the defined benefit category of the Fund at rates determined by the Trustee on the advice of the Fund’s Actuary. On the basis of the results of the most recent full actuarial investigation conducted by the Fund’s Actuary as at 31st December, 2005 the Trustee has determined that the current funding arrangements are adequate for the expected Defined Benefit Plan liabilities. Council makes the following contributions.

- 9.25% of members’ salaries (same as previous year);

- the difference between resignation and retrenchment benefits paid to any retrenched employees, plus contribution tax (same as previous year);

glenelg shire annual report 07-08 91 notes to the financial report for the year ended 30 june 2008

Note 39 Superannuation (cont.)

The Fund’s liability for accrued benefits was determined in the 30 June 2007 actuarial review pursuant to the requirements of Australian Accounting Standard AAS25 as follows:

30-Jun-07 $’000

Net Market Value of Assets 4,102,154 Accrued Benefits (per accounting standards) 3,923,436

Difference between Assets and Accrued Benefits 178,718

Vested Benefits 3,572,589

The Accrued Benefits liability has been determined by the Actuary at 30 June 2007 outside of the full actuarial review which is normally undertaken every three years and most recently performed as at 31 December 2007. This liability is calculated to satisfy the requirements of AAS 25 and is not reflected in the audited financial statements of the Fund at 30 June 2007.

The financial assumptions used to calculate the Accrued Benefits for the defined benefit category of the Fund were: Net Investment Return 8.0% p.a. Salary Inflation 5.5% p.a. Price Inflation 3.0% p.a.

Details of contributions to superannuation funds during the year and amounts payable at 30 June 2008 are as follows:

2008 2007 $’000 $’000 Employer contributions to Local Authorities Superannuation Fund (Vision Super) - Accumulation Funds 621 589 Employer contributions to Local Authorities Superannuation Fund (Vision Super) - Defined Benefit Plans 278 229

Due to a provision in Council’s prior Enterprise Bargaining agreement, new employees had the option of selecting a superannuation fund rather than Local Authorities Superannuation Fund (the Fund). Council has made employer superannuation contributions to the following funds.

2008 2007 $’000 $’000

Employer contributions to AMP - Flexible Lifetime Super 4 4 Employer contributions to Rest Superannuation 4 4 Employer contributions to First Quest Retirement Service - 3

92 glenelg shire annual report 07-08 notes to the financial report for the year ended 30 june 2008

Note 40 Financial Instruments

(a) Accounting Policy, Terms and Conditions

Recognised Note Accounting Policy Terms and Conditions Financial Instruments

Financial Assets Cash and Cash 18 Cash on hand and at bank are valued at face On call deposits returned a floating interest rate Equivalents value. Interest is recognised as it accrues. of 5.4% to 7.15% (4.9% to 5.4% in 2006/2007).

The interest rate at balance date was 7.15% Investments and Bills are valued at face value. (5.4% in 2006/2007). Investments are held to maximise interest returns of surplus cash. Funds returned fixed interest rate of between 6.58% (6.16% in 2006/2007), and 8.39% Interest revenues are recognised as they (6.71% in 2006/2007) net of fees. accrue.

Trade and Other Receivables

Footpath, Kerb 19 Footpath, kerb and channel debtors are Footpath, kerb and channel debts are payable by and Channel carried at nominal amounts due plus interest. one lump sum or by four instalments per year for up Debtors Footpath, kerb and channel debts are a charge to five years. Interest rate charged for instalment attached to the rateable property and are debtors is 12% (12% in 2006/2007). recoverable on sale, therefore, no provision for doubtful debts is made. Interest rates are reviewed annually.

General Debtors 19 Receivables are carried at nominal amounts General debtors are unsecured and interest free. and Infringement due less any provision for doubtful debts. Credit terms are generally based on 30 days. Debtors A provision for doubtful debts is recognised when collection in full is no longer probable. Collectibility of overdue accounts is assessed on an ongoing basis.

Loans to 19 These loans are carried at the principal Loans to community organisations are unsecured. Community amounts outstanding. Loans are payable by instalment (ie. monthly or Organisations Interest is recognised as it accrues. 3 monthly). Interest returns between 6.00% and 10.65%.

Financial Liabilities

Trade and Other 0 Liabilities are recognised for amounts to be General Creditors are unsecured, not subject to Payables paid in the future for goods and services interest charges and are normally settled within provided to Council as at balance date whether 30 days of invoice receipt. or not invoices have been received.

Interest Bearing 32 Loans are carried at their principal amounts, Borrowings are secured by way of mortgages Loans and which represent the present value of future over the general rates of the Council. Borrowings cash flows associated with servicing the debt. Interest rates for loans are in the range of Interest is accrued over the period it becomes 5.875% to 7.40%. due and recognised as part of payables. (Range was 5.875% to 7.40% in 2006/2007).

Bank overdraft 32 Overdrafts are recognised at the principal The overdraft is subject to annual review. amount. Interest is charged as an expense It is secured by a mortgage over Council’s general as it accrues. rates and is repayable on demand. Interest rates on utilised overdraft was 9.15% to 10.65% during 2007/2008 (9.15% in 2006/2007). The interest rate as at balance 10.65% (9.15% in 2006/2007).

glenelg shire annual report 07-08 93 notes to the financial report for the year ended 30 june 2008

Note 40 Financial Instruments (cont.)

(b) Interest Rate Risk

The exposure to interest rate risk and the effective interest rates of financial assets and financial liabilities, both recognised and unrecognised, at balance date are as follows: 2008 Fixed interest maturing in: Floating 1 year Over 1 More than Non-interest Total Interest or less to 5 years 5 years bearing rate $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000

Financial assets Cash and cash equivalents - Note 18 12,309 - - - - 12,309 Trade and other receivables - Note 19 - 18 - - 1,578 1,596

Total financial assets 12,309 18 - - 1,578 13,905

Weighted average interest rate 7.94% 7.55%

Financial liabilities Trade and other payables - Note 31 - - - - 2,348 2,348 Interest-bearing loans and borrowings - Note 32 - 579 1,742 87 - 2,408

Total financial liabilities - 579 1,742 87 2,348 4,756

Weighted average interest rate 10.65% 6.30% 6.46% 6.26%

Net financial assets (liabilities) 12,309 (561) (1,742) (87) (770) 9,149

2007 Fixed interest maturing in: Floating 1 year Over 1 More than Non-interest Total Interest or less to 5 years 5 years bearing rate $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000

Financial assets Cash and cash equivalents 11,537 - - - - 11,537 Other financial assets ------Trade and other receivables - 28 - - 3,204 3,232

Total financial assets 11,537 28 - - 3,204 14,769

Weighted average interest rate 6.38% 11.31%

Financial liabilities Trade and other payables - - - - 2,372 2,372 Interest-bearing loans and borrowings - 545 2,096 312 - 2,953

Total financial liabilities - 545 2,096 312 2,372 5,326

Weighted average interest rate 9.15% 6.30% 6.42% 6.38%

Net financial assets (liabilities) 11,537 (517) (2,096) (312) 832 9,444

94 glenelg shire annual report 07-08 notes to the financial report for the year ended 30 june 2008

Note 40 Financial Instruments (cont.)

(c) Net Fair Values The net fair values of the above assets and liabilities are not material different to that disclosed.

(d) Credit Risk

The maximum exposure to credit risk at balance date in relation to each class of recognised financial asset is represented by the carrying amount of those assets as indicated in the Balance Sheet.

(e) Risks and mitigation

The risks associated with our main financial instruments and our policies for minimising these risks are detailed below.

Market risk

Market risk is the risk that the fair value or future cash flows of our financial instruments will fluctuate because of changes in market prices. The Council’s exposures to market risk are primarily through interest rate risk with only insignificant exposure to other price risks and no exposure to foreign currency risk. Components of market risk to which we are exposed are discussed below.

Interest rate risk

Interest rate risk refers to the risk that the value of a financial instrument or cash flows associated with the instrument will fluctuate due to changes in market interest rates. Interest rate risk arises from interest bearing financial assets and liabilities that Council uses. Non derivative interest bearing assets are predominantly short term liquid assets. Council’sinterest rate liability risk arises primarily from long term loans and borrowings at fixed rates which exposes it to fair value interest rate risk.

Council’s loan borrowings are sourced from major Australian banks by a competitive process. Council’s Overdraft facility is arranged with a major Australian bank. Council manages interest rate risk on its net debt portfolio by: - ensuring access to diverse sources of funding; - reducing risks of refinancing by managing in accordance with target maturity profiles; and - setting prudential limits on interest repayments as a percentage of rate revenue.

Council manages the interest rate exposure on its net debt portfolio by appropriate budgeting strategies and obtaining approval for borrowings from the Australian Loan Council each year.

Investment of surplus funds is made with approved financial institutions under the Local Government Act 1989. Council manages interest rate risk by adopting an investment policy that ensures: - conformity with State and Federal regulations and standards, - adequate safety, - appropriate liquidity, - diversification by credit rating, financial institution and investment product, - monitoring of return on investment, - benchmarking of returns and comparison with budget.

Maturity is staggered to provide for interest rate variations and to minimise interest rate risk.

glenelg shire annual report 07-08 95 notes to the financial report for the year ended 30 june 2008

Note 40 Financial instruments (cont.)

Credit risk

Credit risk is the risk that a contracting entity will not complete its obligations under a financial instrument and cause Council to make a financial loss. Council has exposure to credit risk on all financial assets included in its balance sheet. To help manage this risk: - Council has a policy for establishing credit limits for the entities we deal with; - Council may require collateral where appropriate; and - Council only invests surplus funds with financial institutions which have a recognised credit rating specified in its investment policy.

Trade and other receivables consist of a large number of customers, spread across the consumer, business and government sectors. Credit risk associated with the Council’s financial assets is minimal because the main debtor is the Victorian Government. Apart from the Victorian Government, Council does not have any significant credit risk exposure to a single customer or groups of customers. Ongoing credit evaluation is performed on the financial condition of Council’s customers and, where appropriate, an allowance for doubtful debts is raised.

Council may also be subject to credit risk for transactions which are not included in the balance sheet, such as when it provides a guarantee for another party. Details of Council’s contingent liabilities are disclosed in note 38.

Liquidity risk

Liquidity risk includes the risk that, as a result of our operational liquidity requirements: - Council will not have sufficient funds to settle a transaction on the date; - Council will be forced to sell financial assets at a value which is less than what they are worth; or - Council may be unable to settle or recover a financial assets at all.

To help reduce these risks Council: - has a liquidity policy which targets a minimum and average level of cash and cash equivalents to be maintained; - has readily accessible standby facilities and other funding arrangements in place; - has a liquidity portfolio structure that requires surplus funds to be invested within various bands of liquid instruments; - monitors budget to actual performance on a regular basis; and - set limits on borrowings relating to the percentage of loans to rate revenue and percentage of loan principal repayments to rate revenue.

The Council’ss exposure to liquidity risk is deemed insignificant based on prior periods’ data and current assessment of risk.

(f) Sensitivity disclosure analysis

Taking into account past performance, future expectations, economic forecasts, and management’s knowledge and experience of the financial markets, the Council believes the following movements are ‘reasonably possible’ over the next 12 months (Base rates are sourced from Federal Bank of Australia):

- A parallel shift of +2% and -1% in market interest rates (AUD) from year-end rates of 8%.

96 glenelg shire annual report 07-08 notes to the financial report for the year ended 30 june 2008

Note 40 Financial instruments (cont.)

(f) Sensitivity disclosure analysis

The table below discloses the impact on net operating result and equity for each category of financial instruments held by the Council at year-end, if the above movements were to occur.

Interest rate risk

Market risk exposure Carrying amount subject to interest -1% 2% 100 basis points 200 basis points Profit Equity Profit Equity 2008 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000

Financial assets: Cash and cash equivalents - Note 18 12,309 (123) (123) 246 246 Trade and other receivables - Note 19 1,596 (16) (16) 32 32 Financial liabilities: Trade and other payables - Note 31 2,348 (23) (23) 47 47 Interest-bearing loans and borrowings - Note 32 2,408 (24) (24) 48 48

Note 41 Related Party Transactions

(i) Names of persons holding the position of a Responsible Person at the Glenelg Shire Council during the reporting year are:

Councillors Councillor Geoff White (Mayor 6/12/07 to current) Councillor Gilbert Wilson(Mayor 29/11/06 to 5/12/07) Councillor Karen Stephens Councillor Bill McIntyre Councillor Frank Zeigler Councillor Joy Benbow Councillor Neil Kerr Councillor Robert Halliday Councillor Tom Munro

Chief Executive Officer Stuart Burdack

glenelg shire annual report 07-08 97 notes to the financial report for the year ended 30 june 2008

Note 41 Related Party Transactions (cont.)

(ii) Remuneration of Responsible Persons

The numbers of Responsible Officers, whose total remuneration from Council and any related entities fall within the following bands: 2008 2007 No. No.

$10,000 - $19,999 5 5 $20,000 - $29,999 4 4 $40,000 - $49,999 - 1 $200,000 - $210,000 1 1 10 11

$’000 $’000 Total Remuneration for the reporting year for Responsible Persons included above amounted to 343 326

(iii) No retirement benefits have been made by the Council to a Responsible Person. - -

(iv) No loans have been made, guaranteed or secured by the Council to a Responsible Person during the reporting period. - -

(v) Other Transactions

No transactions other than remuneration payments or the reimbursement of approved expenses were entered into by Council with Responsible Persons, or Related Parties of such Responsible Persons during the reporting year. - -

(vi) Senior Officers Remuneration

A Senior Officer other than a Responsible Person, is an officer of Council who has management responsibilities and reports directly to the Chief Executive Officer or whose total annual remuneration exceeds $100,000.

The number of senior officers other than the Responsible Persons, are shown below in their relevant income bands: 2008 2007 Income Range: No. No.

$60,000 -$70,000 1 - $80,000 - $89,999 - - $90,000 - $99,999 1 - $100,000 - $109,999 1 1 $110,000 - $119,999 1 4 $120,000 - $129,999 1 - 5 5

$’000 $’000 Total Remuneration for the reporting year for Senior Officers included above, amounted to 499 557

98 glenelg shire annual report 07-08 notes to the financial report for the year ended 30 june 2008

Note 42 Revenues, Expenses and Assets by Function/Activity

The Local Government Regulations require the following program based disclosures: Assets Attributed Actual 2008 Revenues Expenses Surplus to Function $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 Functions/Activities Chief Executive Department 88 833 (745) 476 Community Development Department 4,079 6,391 (2,312) 6,372 Corporate Services Department 20,452 10,411 10,041 29,575 Assets and Infrastructure Department 6,477 12,291 (5,814) 243,607 Planning and Economic Development Department 679 2,417 (1,738) 7,016 Capital Revenue and Asset Disposals 3,201 106 3,307 - Total 34,976 32,449 2,739 287,046

Assets Attributed Actual 2007 Revenues Expenses Surplus to Function $’000 $’000 $’000 $’000 Functions/Activities Chief Executive Department 381 2,132 (1,751) 499 Citizen Services Department 3,583 5,177 (1,594) 5,040 Corporate Services Department 18,676 9,033 9,643 27,246 Development Services Department 1,066 3,130 (2,064) 7,021 Engineering Services Department 5,781 10,082 (4,301) 228,467 Capital Revenue and Asset Disposals 5,331 388 4,943 - Total 34,818 29,942 4,876 268,273

* Assets have been attributed to functions/activities based on the control and/or custodianship of specific assets.

The activities of the Council are categorised into the following broad functions: During 2008, Council’s Departments were restructured for functional purposes

Chief Executive Department Chief Executive includes Chief Executive Office, Human Resources, and Media Liaison.

Community Development Department Community Development includes such services as Home Support Services, Aged & Disability Services, Pre School Centres, Family Day Care, Child Care Centres, Environmental Health, Maternal & Child Health, Libraries, Recreation and Youth Programs, Arts and Culture and Heritage.

Corporate Services Department Corporate Services is responsible for the operation of Council’s internal services, incorporating Finance, Purchasing, Information Technology, Administration and Governance, Audit, Customer Services, Records Management, Rates & Valuations, Commercial Activities.

Planning and Economic Development Department Planning and Economic Development includes Economic Development, Industry Attraction, Planning Services, Tourism & Promotions, Caravan Parks, and Tourist Information Centres.

Assets and Infrastructure Department Assets and Infrastructure is responsible for the operation of Council’s Assets and Works programs, incorporating Local Road Maintenance, Main Road Maintenance, Depot Operations, Airport Management, Design, Building Maintenance, External Works, Drainage, Fire Protection, Beaches & Foreshores, Parks & Reserves, Public Halls, Swimming pools, Cleaning, Street Cleaning, Sanitation, and Street Lighting.

glenelg shire annual report 07-08 99 notes to the financial report for the year ended 30 june 2008

Note 43 Financial Ratios

(a) Debt servicing ratio 2008 2008 2007 2007 2006 2006 (to identify the capacity of Council to $’000 (%) $’000 (%) $’000 (%) service its outstanding debt)

Debt servicing costs 230 274 331 = 0.7% = 0.8% = 1.0% Total revenue 34,711 34,384 32,213

Debt servicing costs refer to the payment of interest on loan borrowings, finance lease, and bank overdraft.

The ratio expresses the amount of interest paid as a percentage of Council’s total revenue.

(b) Debt commitment ratio (to identify Council’s debt redemption strategy)

Debt servicing & redemption costs 775 1,162 1,405 = 5.0% = 7.8% = 10.6% Rate revenue 15,659 14,929 13,292 The strategy involves the payment of loan principal and interest, finance lease

principal and interest.

The ratio expresses the percentage of rate revenue utilised to pay interest and redeem debt principal.

(c) Revenue ratio (to identify Council’s dependence on non-rate income)

Rate revenue 15,659 14,929 13,292 = 45.1% = 43.4% = 41.3% Total revenue 34,711 34,384 32,213 The level of Council’s reliance on rate revenue is determined by assessing rate revenue as a proportion of the total revenue of Council.

100 glenelg shire annual report 07-08 notes to the financial report for the year ended 30 june 2008

Note 43 Financial Ratios (cont.)

2008 2008 2007 2007 2006 2006 $’000 (%) $’000 (%) $’000 (%)

(d) Debt Exposure Ratio (to identify Council’s exposure to debt)

Total indebtedness 9,221 5,249 5,287 = 12.0% = 6.7% = 7.0% Total realisable assets 76,789 78,172 75,632

For the purposes of the calculation of financial ratios, realisable assets are those assets which can be sold and which are not subject to any restriction on realisation or use.

Any liability represented by a restricted asset (notes 18 & 33) is excluded from total indebtedness.

The following assets are excluded from total assets when calculating Council’s realisable assets: Land and buildings on Crown land; restricted assets; heritage assets; total infrastructure assets; and Council’s investment in associate.

This ratio enables assessment of Council’s solvency and exposure to debt. Total indebtedness refers to the total liabilities of Council. Total liabilities are compared to total realisable assets which are all Council assets not subject to any restriction and are able to be realised. The ratio expresses the multiple of total liabilities for each dollar of realisable assets.

(e) Working Capital Ratio (to assess Council’s ability to meet current commitments)

Current assets 15,208 15,463 12,686 = 288.9% = 299.6% = 299.0% Current liabilities 5,265 5,161 4,243

The ratio expresses the level of current assets the Council has available to meet its current liabilities.

(f) Adjusted Working Capital Ratio (to assess Council’s ability to meet current commitments)

Current assets 15,208 15,463 12,686 = 333.4% = 348.4% = 323.5% Current liabilities 4,562 4,438 3,921

The ratio expresses the level of current assets the Council has available to meet its current liabilities. Current liabilities have been reduced to reflect the long service leave that is shown as a current liability because Council does not have an unconditional right to defer settlement of the liability for at least twelve months after the reporting date, but is not likely to fall due within 12 months after the end of the period.

glenelg shire annual report 07-08 101 certification of the financial report

In my opinion, the accompanying financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the Local Government Act 1989, the Local Government (Finance and Reporting) Regulations 2004, Australian Accounting Standards, and other mandatory professional reporting requirements.

Linda MacRae PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTING OFFICER Date: September 11, 2008

In our opinion, the accompanying financial statements present fairly the financial transactions of Glenelg Shire Council for the financial year ended 30 June 2008 and the financial position of the Council as at that date.

As at the date of signing, we are not aware of any circumstances which would render any particulars in the financial statement to be misleading or inaccurate.

We have been authorised by the Council on 9 September 2008 to certify the financial statements in their final form.

Geoff White COUNCILLOR Date: September 11, 2008

Gilbert Wilson COUNCILLOR Date: September 11, 2008

Stuart Burdack CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Date: September 11, 2008

102 glenelg shire annual report 07-08 auditor - general’s report on the financial report

glenelg shire annual report 07-08 103 auditor - general’s report on the financial report

104 glenelg shire annual report 07-08 performance statements

INTRODUCTION OBJECTIVES Glenelg Shire Council has prepared and adopted a Council Plan for the a Shire that achieves four financial years immediately sustainable growth 106 following the municipal elections held in November 2004. During 2007, Council has reviewed the Plan and adopted a Shire that embraces good amendments to this Plan to form a new governance, makes sound decisions, Council Plan for implementation from looks after its many assets and 1 July 2007 to 30 June 2009. property, manages its financial and human resources, and speaks This Council Annual Plan for Glenelg up for the community 109 Shire Council presents the key activities that the Glenelg Shire will pursue during the 2007/08 financial year to deliver the a Shire that provides value for commitments in the Council Plan 2005 money services that meet residents’ – 2009. We believe that these activities needs and create a vibrant, caring, represent significant steps towards the healthy community 116 achievement of the commitments and intentions outlined in the Council Plan. The Council Annual Plan has activities a Shire that grasps economic and and actions together with performance social opportunities that enable its indicators linked to objectives and goals citizens to lead fuller lives 123 of the Council Plan.

We will report on our progress of these activities through regular updates to Council through Council meetings and we will report on our performance measures and targets through a detailed Performance Statement in the Annual Report for 2007/08.

glenelg shire annual report 07-08 105 OBJECTIVE a shire that achieves sustainable growth

GOAL: We will restore public confidence in the Shire’s planning processes by:

Activity/Action Performance Indicator Outcome

Reducing the number of By 30 June 2008, undetermined Achieved. As at 30 June 2008, undetermined planning permit planning permit applications will 25 applications are undetermined applications by 30% by be less than 90. and waiting officer reports. 30 June 2008.

Completing a review of heritage Glenelg Strategic Futures Plan Completion of Glenelg Strategic sites across the Shire (excluding completed and preparation Futures Plan postponed to November Portland which is already completed), commenced for Planning Amendment 2008 due to lack of requisite flooding consulting with our community about by 30 June 2008. data. sites recommended for protection and preparing an amendment to the Preparation of Stage 2 of the Glenelg Glenelg Planning Scheme to provide Heritage Study completed. Funding heritage protection for appropriate allocated to implement the study in sites by 30 June 2008. the 2008/09 budget.

Continuing to reform planning Development of a communications Communications Strategy completed. processes so that all participants in strategy and implementation of This included regular reports to the permit application process are this strategy to inform applicants Councillors workshops and a Land better informed and are provided with and citizens generally on progress Management Plan forum held on more effective means of expressing regarding the Glenelg Strategic 18 June 2008. their views. Futures Plan and DPO7 structure plan by 31 December 2007.

Seeking State Government and Prepare and submit a project Achieved. In principle funding regional local government support for brief and funding application to approval for the pilot project was Council to establish a free advisory the Department of Sustainability provided in May 2008. This was service pilot project aimed at helping & Environment and the Municipal subsequently replaced by the June planning process participants access Association of Victoria by State Government announcement to sound planning advice. 31 December 2007. employ 15 planners across the State to assist local government.

Reviewing planning workflow Review workflow systems and Completed. Processes were reviewed processes with a view to making responsibilities and document at a Departmental workshop on efficiency gains. findings and recommendations by 6 February 2008. This resulted in 31 December 2007. an improved workflow for planning applications.

106 glenelg shire annual report 07-08 OBJECTIVE a shire that achieves sustainable growth

GOAL: We will complete the strategic planning study known as “Glenelg Strategic Futures Plan” according to the following schedule:

Activity/Action Performance Indicator Outcome

Stage One – 31 August 2007 Incorporation of aerial photography Completed. Aerial imagery and Completion of aerial photography, and Lidar mapping data into GIS by Lidar (contour) mapping data was digital terrain modelling, flooding 31 August 2007. progressively installed on the GIS and drainage mapping and system. incorporation into the Council’s geographic information system.

Stage Two – 28 February 2008 Completion of all components of the Glenelg Strategic Futures Plan, which incorporates: • Policy development within the Draft GSFP presented to Council, Completion of Glenelg Strategic local planning policy framework including policy development Futures Plan postponed to for Settlement and Housing, for Settlement and Housing, November 2008 due to lack of Environment, Economic Environment, Economic requisite flooding data. Development, Infrastructure, and Development, Infrastructure, and • Developed land management Particular Uses and Development, Particular Uses and Development. plan tools in March 2008. • Applied to Minister for Planning for interim planning scheme amendments in April 2008.

• Preparation of Scheme Draft Scheme Amendments to See comment above. Amendments to effect changes effect the changes prepared by required. 30 June 2008.

sustainable growth

glenelg shire annual report 07-08 107 OBJECTIVE a shire that achieves sustainable growth

GOAL: We will seek the Minister for Planning’s support to remove the requirement for the preparation of Development Plans in the Glenelg Planning Scheme:

Activity/Action Performance Indicator Outcome

For those areas currently subject Draft Structure Plans and Completion of Glenelg Strategic of Development Plan Overlays Local Structure Plans completed Futures Plan postponed to November 1, 2, 4 and 6 by preparing Structure by 30 June 2008. 2008 due to lack of requisite flooding Plans and Local Structure Plans data. as part of the Glenelg Strategic • Developed land management plan Futures Plan and incorporating tools in March 2008. them into the Planning Scheme • Applied to Minister for Planning by amendment. for interim planning scheme amendments in April 2008.

For the coastal area around Completion of Brief and funding Planning scheme amendment Dutton Way and Narrawong, confirmed by 31 December 2007. prepared and submitted in known as DPO7 by seeking funding April 2008 to address part of the and government assistance for the DPO7 area. Funding has been preparation of a Development Plan obtained for a Coastal Engineering for the area. and Planning Study.

GOAL: We will join the Victorian Local Sustainability Accord and we will prepare an Environmental Strategic Framework which will guide our future actions to create a sustainable Shire.

Activity/Action Performance Indicator Outcome

Develop a Sustainability Accord Statement adopted by Council Local Environmental Sustainability Priority Statement. July 2007. Priority Statement adopted by Council 24 July 2007.

Council to join the Sustainability Council signed as an Accord partner Victorian Local Sustainability Accord Accord Partnership. June 2007. signed by Council at the Council meeting 22 May 2007.

Council to develop the Environmental Council to adopt the Environmental The Draft Environmental Sustainability Strategic Framework for the Shire. Strategic Framework in November Framework has been prepared 2007. for consideration by Council at its meeting on 23 September 2008.

108 glenelg shire annual report 07-08 OBJECTIVE a Shire that embraces good governance, makes sound decisions, looks after its many assets, property, manages its financial and human resources, and speaks up for the community.

GOAL: We will ensure that the impacts of prolonged drought are taken into account when the Shire establishes rating levels for 2007/2008 and 2008/2009.

Activity/Action Performance Indicator Outcome

Deliver a responsible but considered Keep rates for 2007/08 below the A net rate revenue increase of 4% budget that keeps 2007/08 rate Municipal Association of Victoria cost was adopted for 2007/08. increases below local government of living rise estimated at 5 – 6%. industry standards.

speaks up for the community

glenelg shire annual report 07-08 109 GOAL: We will maintain the highest standards of financial stewardship by:

Activity/Action Performance Indicator Outcome

Present detailed monthly financial Monthly Income Reports presented Completed – refer to Council Meeting reports to the Council. to Council. Minutes.

Undertaking a range of internal Internal audits listed in the Audit Confirmed by Audit Committee. audits, in accordance with an Plan for 2007/08 completed. Internal audits are listed in the Glenelg internal audit plan under the Shire Audit Plan 2005-2009 adopted supervision of an Internal Audit by Council. A progress report was Committee. submitted to and adopted by the Audit Committee at the meeting held on 29 April 2008 (Item 9).

Maintaining the Shire’s sound Adoption of a budgeted surplus Completed. Budget adopted at the overall financial viability based for 2007/08. Council Meeting held on 24 July on moderate rating levels, low 2007. Budget contained a budgeted levels of debt, surplus budgeting, surplus of $3,377,125 for 2007/2008 appropriate levels of retained cash, (refer to Budgeted Standard very high levels of debt collection Operating Statement on page 50). and growing levels of asset reinvestment and renewal. Level of retained cash at On target. Level of retained cash as 1 July 2007 ‘v’ level of retained at the 30 June 2008 is forecast to cash at 30 June 2008. exceed the level as at 30 June 2007. Actual level cannot be determined until the completion of the 2007/08 annual financial statements and external audit after 30 June 2008.

Amount of rates outstanding On target. Amount of outstanding as at 30 June 2008 to be < 2% rates is forecast to better the of total rates. performance indicator. Actual result cannot be determined until 30 June 2008.

Review the Rate Strategy following Submit the review to Council Completed. Review completed and the receipt of the 2008 municipal for adoption with the 2008/09 presented to the Councillors Budget revaluation. Council budget. Workshop held on 6 May 2008. No change to existing rating differentials for 2008/09.

The 2008 revaluation of all Valuation contract dates achieved. Completed. rateable properties is completed in accordance with the Valuer Completed. New valuations have General’s valuation best practice Receipt of Valuer General’s been received for all rateable guidelines. verification certificates for each properties in the Glenelg Shire. stage of the revaluation. Stage 5 certification from the Valuer General has been received.

110 glenelg shire annual report 07-08 GOAL: We will reduce long term indebtedness by $545,000 in 2007/2008 and $579,000 in 2008/2009.

Activity/Action Performance Indicator Outcome

Reduce Council loan principal Debt level as at 30 June 2008 Achieved. and interest payments. (principal closing balance) is $2,408,020.

GOAL: Any new debt will be accompanied by a Business Plan or Economic Impact statement which justifies new borrowings.

Activity/Action Performance Indicator Outcome

Preparation of business plan or Adoption of each loan proposal. Council has adopted a Business Plan economic impact statements for for the proposed Portland Family every new loan proposal. and Childrens’ Centre (The Hub). Budgeted loan of $300,000 not taken up as project has not received all necessary federal and state funding.

GOAL: We will determine the future of the Casterton Saleyards by developing a detailed understanding of the works required to enable the saleyards to operate safely and by evaluating the overall economic and social benefits which the operation of the saleyards bring to the Casterton area.

Activity/Action Performance Indicator Outcome

Develop a Casterton Saleyards Draft business plan presented Council adopted Draft Business Business Plan. to Council and then released Plan at Council meeting on for public comment by 27 November 2007. 27 November 2007.

Public comments received and Community meeting 23 January in considered at January 2008 Casterton. Submissions received Council meeting. and referred to the 25 March 2008 Council meeting.

Final business plan reviewed giving Business Plan adopted at the consideration to public comments Council meeting held on and presented to the January 2008 25 March 2008. Council workshop.

Business plan formally considered Service Improvement Plan adopted by Council at the February 2008 at 25 March 2008 Council Meeting Council meeting. in Casterton.

glenelg shire annual report 07-08 111 GOAL: We will develop asset management strategies for the Shire’s drainage systems and parks and recreation areas so that we can invest in and renew these assets in the most cost effective way.

Activity/Action Performance Indicator Outcome

Develop and implement a Condition assessments and Works commenced on project in Drainage Asset Management network mapping completed by March 2008. Network mapping Plan (DAMP). June 2008. of 86 km of drains has been completed.

Asset assessments and valuation Review of asset condition and review completed by December valuation is programmed for August 2008. to October 2008.

Draft Drainage Asset Management Preparation of Draft Drainage Asset Plan to Council and public for Management Plan has commenced. comment by March 2009.

Develop and implement a Parks Condition assessments and Parks asset mapping completed and Recreation Reserve Asset network mapping completed by March 2008. Management Plan (PRRAMP). June 2008.

Asset assessments and valuation Asset assessments and valuation review completed by December review programmed for October 2008. 2008.

Draft Parks and Recreation Preparation of a Draft Parks Reserve Asset Management Plan and Recreation Reserve Asset to Council and public for comment Management Plan is programmed by March 2009. for commencement in November 2008.

speaks up for the community

112 glenelg shire annual report 07-08 GOAL: We will implement the asset management strategies for buildings and transport.

Activity/Action Performance Indicator Outcome

Implement the Building Asset Establish annual maintenance Project successfully implemented Management Plan (BAMP). programs (April annually). and works substantially completed throughout 2007/08.

Establish annual building Annual maintenance and upgrade upgrade programs program completed for inclusion in the 2008/09 budget.

Develop and implement the Complete draft for Council and Transport Asset Management Transport Asset Management public comment (November 2007). Plan adopted by Council Plan (TAMP). 27 November 2007.

Establish annual maintenance 2008/09 maintenance plan programs (April annually). completed for implementation in the 2008/09 budget.

Establish annual road upgrade 2008/09 road upgrade program programs (April annually). completed for implementation in the 2008/09 budget.

Develop an Integrated Transport Complete the draft plan by CBD Parking Strategy will be Plan (ITP) bringing together all July 2008 for Council and presented to Council in July 2008. aspects of transport within the Public comment. Bicycle Strategy is currently being Shire into a single plan. prepared under the guidance of the Bicycle Strategy Committee. Draft ITP will incorporate theses documents when adopted by Council.

Complete the final plan by Programmed for completion December 2008 for adoption by December 2008. by Council.

glenelg shire annual report 07-08 113 GOAL: We will remain fully committed to tapping the potential of the Shire’s geothermal resources for producing clean, efficient, cost-effective energy, and we will complete a report which canvasses all options available to our community to do so.

Activity/Action Performance Indicator Outcome

Investigate further development of Geothermal options report to Geothermal Options report presented either a new bore or a new heat Council’s 27 November 2007 to Councillors workshop on source (Wannon Water). Council meeting. 11 December 2007. Meeting with Hot Rocks Pty Ltd held in February

GOAL: We will be vigorous advocates for our community and always speak up when necessary. We will fulfil our responsibilities as democratically elected representatives of our community.

Activity/Action Performance Indicator Outcome

We will continue to advocate Continue to implement the Council has continued to for improvements to the Princes Great South Coast Municipalities proactively participate in the Princes Highway. advocacy strategy including press Highway Alliance Working Group. releases, promotional campaigns Commitments for State & Federal and funding submissions. Government funding to duplicate the highway from Waurn Ponds to Winchelsea have been obtained. The Alliance is now focusing on improvements between Warrnambool and Mount Gambier.

We will respond to the issues of Lobby strongly on at least Council has undertaken campaigns concern to our community as they three important issues through around the Portland Bay trawler arise with strong advocacy. delegations and/or submissions wharf, the Heywood Police Station throughout 2007/2008. (retaining the residence), the South West rescue helicopter and the rail network in Victoria.

Meet with relevant government A minimum of three (3) meetings Achieved. Three meetings held - officers and ministers to lobby for to be held. with Regional Development Victoria - enhanced services for families and 6 February 2008, Dept of Transport & children across the Shire. Regional Services – 25 February 2008 and Dept of Planning & Community Development – 7 May 2008.

Advocate and lobby on behalf of the Continued membership of the Membership continues. Mildura key community issues. Alliance of Councils for Rail Freight City Council now administers the Development. secretariat.

Presentation to Rail Freight Network Completed. Presentation made Review Committee on importance by Glenelg Shire Council on of rail infrastructure to the Port on 3 October 2007. 3 October 2007.

114 glenelg shire annual report 07-08 GOAL: We will participate in a review of the Shire’s electoral system and argue for electoral arrangements that help create informed and interested voters.

Activity/Action Performance Indicator Outcome

Advocate Council’s position on Submissions to be lodged with the Completed. Submissions presented municipal electoral boundaries for VEC by their specified dates. to the Victorian Electoral Commission the Glenelg Shire to the Victorian and acknowledged in its preliminary Electoral Commission’s review. and final reports.

GOAL: We will develop a range of innovative programs which will help Council attract, train and retain skilled employees.

Activity/Action Performance Indicator Outcome

Develop and send out a Work Report on results to the Survey completed & results Balance and Family Friendly Chief Executive Officer by evaluated. Results discussed focused survey. 30 September 2007. with Chief Executive Officer on 7 May 2008.

speaks up for the community

glenelg shire annual report 07-08 115 OBJECTIVE a Shire that provides value for money services that meet residents’ needs and create a vibrant, caring, healthy community.

GOAL: We will provide important services to the community to ensure that all citizens are catered for.

Activity/Action Performance Indicator Outcome

We will monitor and maintain our Implement the Road Management Program included in the 2007/08 sealed and unsealed roads. Program for 1,140km of sealed budget and implemented. roads and 1,480 km of unsealed roads in the Shire.

We will provide accessible and Achieve 120,000 visits to the 108,000 visits recorded to 30 valued recreation facilities. Shire’s aquatic centres at Portland, June 2008. Planned shutdowns Heywood, Merino & Casterton. at The PLACE to undertake major maintenance works throughout the year may result in the target not being achieved.

We will provide a comprehensive Collect waste and recycling Achieved through weekly waste waste collection and disposal products from over 7,300 collections and fortnightly collections service in the Shire. households. from 7,400 tenements.

We will deliver quality visitor Provide excellent customer service Achieved. Approximately, 104,000 information services through to over 100,000 visitors annually in recorded visitors attended the Shires’ our 3 accredited Visitor order to increase visitor length of stay information centres. Information Centres. and dispersal throughout the region.

We will ensure that the provision Provision of 30,000 30,400 meals provided to of meals on wheels is equitable meals on wheels. Home & Community Care Clients and value for money. to 30 June 2008.

value for money services

116 glenelg shire annual report 07-08 GOAL: We will seek Federal and State Government assistance to establish “The Portland Child and Family” complex as an integrated cluster of early childhood services from a central Portland location, and we will explore the feasibility of a similar project in Casterton.

Activity/Action Performance Indicator Outcome

Develop and submit applications for Applications for DOTARS Completed. Applications submitted funding for the Portland Child and and DVC funds submitted by to both DOTARS and Dept Victorian Family Complex. 31 August 2007. Communities (now Dept Planning & Community Development).

Work with the Community Liaison A minimum of three (3) applications Business Plan has been adopted by Committee to submit funding submitted by 31 December 2007. Council and discussions commenced applications to philanthropic with philanthropic trusts regarding organisations. application guidelines and processes.

Prepare and implement a community Community Engagement Completed. Community engagement engagement strategy for the Portland Strategy competed by strategies completed and submitted Child and Family Complex. 30 October 2007. to Council for endorsement: • Portland Child and Family Complex : Council meeting 27 November 2007; and • Casterton Child and Family Complex: Councillors Workshop 9 October 2007.

Develop a Business Plan for the Draft Business Plan considered Business Plan completed and redevelopment of the Casterton by Council by 31 October 2007. submitted to Council for endorsement Kindergarten as an integrated child at Council meeting 23 October 2007. and family facility.

glenelg shire annual report 07-08 117 GOAL: We will provide vital services to the community and ensure that all citizens receive relevant services in a timely, fair and efficient manner.

Activity/Action Performance Indicator Outcome

We will provide home and Provide 10,000 hours of frail Total hours of service provided community care services to aged services to 700 clients to 01 July 2007 – 30 June 2008: frail aged (over 70) and people 30 June 2008. • 742 Clients with disabilities. • 25,552 hours of services

We will provide quality child care Provide care for 350 children and 282 families and 380 children have programs and support services for their families to 30 June 2008. received this service over the past children with additional needs. 12 months.

We will deliver environmental Provide 1,200 immunisations 1,489 immunisations and 580 health services to ensure the and undertake 500 inspections inspections have been completed to wellbeing of the community. to 30 June 2008. 30 June 2008.

We will provide equitable access Achieve 50% of population Achieved. Current membership to expressions of knowledge, registered as members, 100,000 = 11,156 creative thought and intellectual loans and 96,000 visits to libraries Visitors (July 2007 – June 2008) activity through Glenelg Libraries. to 30 June 2008. = 150,683 Loans (July 2007 – June 2008) = 121,379

GOAL: We will prepare and adopt a Municipal Public Health Plan aimed at improving the health and well-being of the Shire’s citizens, giving particular attention to the health needs of our indigenous community.

Activity/Action Performance Indicator Outcome

Municipal Public Health Plan Steering Committee appointed and Steering Committee and Terms of Steering Committee appointed Terms of Reference endorsed by Reference endorsed by Council and Terms of Reference adopted. Council by 30 November 2007. at Ordinary Council Meetings: 28 August and 27 November 2007.

Council adopts final version of Plan adopted by Council by Not completed. Final workshop Municipal Public Health Plan. 30 May 2008. held 13 June 2008. Draft plan will be completed 30 June 2008 for adoption by Council in July 2008.

118 glenelg shire annual report 07-08 GOAL: We will address disadvantage in the Glenelg Shire through the development of a social plan that: • Understands where and how disadvantage impacts on the lives of our citizens; • Draws the Government’s attention to those in our Community who need more help and; • Makes sure that our “human services” are tailored to helping those in most need.

Activity/Action Performance Indicator Outcome

Social Plan Steering Committee Steering Committee appointed and This plan has been deferred until appointed and Terms of Reference Terms of Reference endorsed by completion of the Municipal Public adopted. Council by 31 March 2008. Health Plan, Positive Ageing Strategy and the Youth Strategy are completed (all due for completion by June 2009). These plans will significantly reform the Social Plan for the Shire.

Issues Paper, including mapping Issues Paper presented to Issues Paper not completed. of existing services and relevant Council by 30 June 2008. Consultant contracted to research presented to Council. undertake research for Issues Paper 30 June 2008.

GOAL: We will establish an Aged Care Working Party in conjunction with aged care facility providers to develop an “Ageing in Place” plan for Glenelg Shire.

Activity/Action Performance Indicator Outcome

Prepare a report for Council on Report presented to Council Reports on Aged Care considered Aged Care in the Glenelg Shire. by 30 July 2007 by Council at Council meeting held on 24 July 2007.

Develop Terms of Reference Terms of Reference adopted Positive Ageing Strategy Terms of for Aged Care Working Party for by Council by 31 January 2008. Reference for Steering Committee consideration by Council. endorsed by Council at Council meeting held on 18 December 2007.

Present Draft Ageing In Place Plan to Presented to Council by Strategy not completed due to Council for approval. 30 June 2008. extended consultation process. Deferred to July 2008 Council meeting. Steering Committee endorsed and Research Report received by Council at Council meeting held on 26 February 2008.

glenelg shire annual report 07-08 119 GOAL: We will create an active, healthy Shire by implementing the recommendations of the Shire’s Recreation and Open Space Strategy.

Activity/Action Performance Indicator Outcome

Develop appropriate staffing Restructure completed and Restructure completed. Recreation structure with the Recreation Unit. advertised by 30 September 2007. Services Officer commenced on 5 November 2007. Recreation & Youth Services Co-Coordinator Position filled August 2007.

Complete Recreation and Open 75% of key projects and actions 75% of key actions and projects for Space Strategy key projects and completed by 30 June 2008. 2008 completed. actions for current year.

Prepare progress report for Council Report presented to Council in Progress Report listed for on implementation of Strategy. June 2008. presentation to July 2008 Council meeting.

value for money services

120 glenelg shire annual report 07-08 GOAL: We will create an inclusive Shire by implementing the Shire’s Disability Action Plan.

Activity/Action Performance Indicator Outcome

Undertake a review of the Glenelg Mobility Map reprinted by Mobility Map reviewed and reprinted Shire Council Mobility Map and 30 December 2007 June 2008. Disability Advisory provide input regarding accessibility Committee provided comment on into the Car Parking Review. Car Park Review at meeting held on 7 April 2008.

Support and assist with the Events are well supported Following events held and well organisation of events to celebrate and promoted. supported: International Day of People with a • To celebrate Mental Health Week, Disability and Mental Health Week. the exhibition “Feeling Blue, Seeing Red” was launched and shown in the DiscoverIT Centre over the months of October and November 2007. A calendar of the exhibition was produced with support from Aspire, United Way Glenelg and Southwest Health Care. • ‘Wild Westerlies’ (program that provides people with a disability the opportunity to participate in cultural and artistic activities) Dance Party was held on 8 December 2007. • “One and All Festival Beach Party” held 3 December 2007 to celebrate IDPD – 80 attendees.

Provide a Progress Report on Report completed and Progress report provided to Ordinary the implementation of the Disability submitted to December Council meeting on 22 January 2008. Action Plan to the December Ordinary Council meeting. Council Meeting.

glenelg shire annual report 07-08 121 GOAL: We will create a vibrant Shire by providing and supporting a wide range of festivals, celebrations and cultural activities, which will entertain and engage a broad cross-section of our community.

Activity/Action Performance Indicator Outcome

Support and fund key A comprehensive schedule of events Events calendar updated weekly and projects/events across the Shire. and activities covering recreation, posted on Council’s website. tourism, cultural and special purpose themes developed and publicly available by 30 June 2008.

GOAL: We will strengthen the community by seeking government support to identify and develop practical ways of encouraging and supporting volunteer participation across the Shire.

Activity/Action Performance Indicator Outcome

Develop and prepare a Volunteer Draft Policy and Kit to be Draft Policy and Information Kit Policy and Information Kit for the considered by Management considered by Senior Management Glenelg Shire Council. Group by December 2007. Team at meeting held on 24 June 2008.

Develop a list of volunteer List compiled and printed by List compiled and printed for opportunities in the Glenelg Council 31 December 2007. customer service staff by 30 May for Customer Service Staff and the 2008 made available on website. Glenelg Shire Council website.

Organise an annual event to Annual event to be held in Portland, • Heywood – 12 May 2008 at recognise volunteerism in the Heywood and Casterton is well Council’s Customer Service Glenelg Shire Council. promoted and attended. Centre with 63 acceptances. Guest Speaker – Elaine Evans. • Casterton – 12 May 2008 at the Town Hall with 55 attendees. Guest Speaker – Helen Bayne • Portland – 15 May 2008 at the Civic Hall. Guest Speaker – Keith Wilson, Glenelg Shire Citizen of the Year 2008. 122 acceptances.

122 glenelg shire annual report 07-08 OBJECTIVE a Shire that grasps economic and social opportunities that enable its citizens to lead fuller lives.

GOAL: We will help to provide certainty for the Shire’s fishing industry by adopting a preferred position about the best arrangements for wharf facilities in Portland harbour.

Activity/Action Performance Indicator Outcome

Complete Portland Bay Coastal Adoption by Council of PBCIP Completed and adopted by Infrastructure Plan. with a consultation and Council on 27 November 2007. communication strategy in place by 31 December 2007.

GOAL: We will boost prospects for the Shire’s tourism industry by committing to foreshore improvements and infrastructure which are a consequence of the recommendations in the Shire’s “Portland Coastal Infrastructure Plan”.

Activity/Action Performance Indicator Outcome

Implementation of strategic actions A budget commitment for Prioritised works program adopted and recommendations identified implementation of strategic by Steering Committee with budget in the Portland Bay Coastal actions endorsed by Council allocation provided in the 2008/09 Infrastructure Plan. by 30 June 2008. budget.

GOAL: We will seek the State Government’s assistance to establish a South West Timber Industry Consultative Council which will co-ordinate all of the local and regional work that will be necessary if we are to grasp the opportunities and properly manage the impacts of the timber industry on our Shire in the near future.

Activity/Action Performance Indicator Outcome

Establish a South West Timber Completion of scoping document Scoping paper has been developed Industry Consultative Council to for the development of the timber and discussed with Regional co-ordinate local and regional industry and discussions held with Development Victoria executives impacts of timber industry funding bodies by 30 June 2008. on 6 February 2008. Funding not development. forthcoming at this stage.

glenelg shire annual report 07-08 123 GOAL: We will work with the Victorian State Government, through Regional Development Victoria, to optimise the planning work already completed for a pulp mill at the Heywood location, and seek to attract investor interest in that project.

Activity/Action Performance Indicator Outcome

Promote investor opportunity for Completion of a Business Statement completed for discussion timber value adding ventures. Opportunity Statement for with Regional Development Victoria timber industry development on 6 February 2008. A study tour and presentation to Regional was undertaken to Albany, WA in April Development Victoria by 2008 by a Council group consisting 30 June 2008. of the Mayor, three Councillors and the CEO. The study tour report was presented to Council on 27 May 2008 and an action plan for timber industry opportunities adopted.

GOAL: We will examine the potential to help local stakeholders establish a “Committee for Portland” as a diverse, multi-skilled organisation that can act as a unifying force to enable the Portland community to continue to grow and prosper.

Activity/Action Performance Indicator Outcome

Liaise with Portland based Establish interest and incumbent Inaugural board and governance companies to explore the interest membership for the Committee for structure was established by and possible funding models and Portland by 30 October 2007. December 2007. Public launch structures for the Committee for conducted 22 February 2008 Portland. with Executive Officer appointed in May 2008.

Prepare funding strategy and Funding applications submitted Funding application prepared applications to establish the to Regional Development Victoria and submitted. A $25,000 State Committee for Portland. and in principle commitment Government grant for the Committee from member organisations by for Portland was announced on 31 December 2007. 3 October 2007 by the Minister for Regional & Rural Development, the Hon. Jacinta Allen.

Pending funding availability, Terms of reference developed Terms of reference and governance establish a governance structure, together with workplan and structure were adopted by the Board membership and work plan for the membership commitments by 30 in December 2007. Committee for Portland. June 2008.

124 glenelg shire annual report 07-08 GOAL: We will finalise a Memorandum of Understanding with the Shire’s indigenous communities as a basis building for sound working relationships.

Activity/Action Performance Indicator Outcome

CEO and Mayor to attend NAIDOC Attendance at NAIDOC event. CEO, Mayor and Group Manager event in Portland. Community Development attended flag-raising and BBQ lunch for NAIDOC Week at DWECH 9 July 2007.

Chief Executive officer and Meeting held by Group Manager Community Group Manager Community 31 December 2007. Development met with the CEO Development to meet with DWEC of Gunditj Mirring on 28 March Board to discuss MOU. 2008 to discuss Town signage and Memorandum of Understanding. Group Manager Community Development met with the CEO of the Dhauwurd Wurrung Elderly Citizens to discuss Reconciliation Week event and Memorandum of Understanding on 5 May.

Preparation of MOU for signing. MOU prepared by Not completed. New Memorandum 28 February 2008. of Understanding currently being developed. Process discussed and agreed by Council and indigenous community.

Review Terms of Reference Report to Council meeting Delays in the Memorandum and Membership of Indigenous by 30 March 2008. of Understanding have flowed Consultative Committee. through to this action. Constructive discussions with the Indigenous community around the matter are continuing.

GOAL: We will continue to support and provide leadership for the Alliance of Councils for Rail Freight Development as it advocates for the development of a competitive, connective rail freight network for South East Australia.

Activity/Action Performance Indicator Outcome

Make a submission to the Lodge submission with the Completed. Submission lodged State Government’s Rail Freight Taskforce by 17 August 2007. in August 2007 and receipt Network Review. acknowledged (Refer DWS 560943 & 561502).

glenelg shire annual report 07-08 125 GOAL: We will encourage specific communities to play a more active role in establishing local aspirations and priorities by conducting community planning processes at Portland, Casterton, Heywood, Narrawong/Tyrendarra, Dartmoor and Nelson in 2007/2008 and Merino, Digby, Bridgewater and Dutton Way/Maretimo in 2008/2009. We will integrate community plans into subsequent Council Plan processes.

Activity/Action Performance Indicator Outcome

Lead and facilitate community Advanced level of community Completed. Draft Plans considered planning activities in the Shire’s planning undertaken in Portland, by communities for endorsement in communities. Casterton, Heywood, Narrawong/ June 2008. Tyrendarra, Dartmoor and Nelson by 30 June 2008.

Outcomes of community planning Reported to Council 22 April 2008. process documented and referred Funds have been allocated in the to Management Group and Council 2008/09 budget to implement for incorporation into Council community plans. planning and budget process, by 31 March 2008.

GOAL: We will further investigate opportunities using geothermal energy in the aquaculture sector.

Activity/Action Performance Indicator Outcome

Continue to liaise with Regional Promotion of the geothermal Meeting held with Hot Rocks Pty Ltd Development Victoria to promote opportunity to a prospective which holds the exploration licence the opportunity and use of developer. within the Shire. Hot Rocks Pty Ltd geothermal energy for industry has indicated it will proceed with the and in the community. exploratory work.

economic & social opportunities

126 glenelg shire annual report 07-08 GOAL: We will seek to entrench the Shire as an investment location for a range of renewable energy projects.

Activity/Action Performance Indicator Outcome

Promote Glenelg Shire as an Development of a Business Opportunities Statement prepared investment location for renewable Opportunity Statement for and presented to Regional energy ventures. renewable energies and Development Victoria on presentation to Governments 6 February 2008. Also presented and industry by 30 June 2008. on 20 February 2008 to Member for Western Victoria, the Hon. Gail Tierney. Constructive and ongoing dialogue continues with Oceanlinx, Hot Rocks Pty Ltd and biofuel energy providers.

GOAL: We will work with young people to develop a planning framework that will engage them in community activities and increase opportunities for them to reach their potential.

Activity/Action Performance Indicator Outcome

Develop a Youth Charter and Plan. Policy and Plan adopted by Steering Committee endorsed at Council by 30 June 2008. Council meeting on 22 April 2008. Research paper considered at Council meeting 28 May 2008.

Continue to provide FReeZA events A minimum of four (4) FReeZA FReeZA events held in 2007/08 at: for young people across the Shire. events provided over year. 30 June 2007 - Hardwired Music Festival - The Arc Stadium, Warrnambool. Attendance: 1000

16 November 2007 - Breakfest FReeZA Event - Foreshore, Portland. Attendance: 550

21 January 2008: Dartmoor and Nelson Fun Day - Bus Trip to Mount Gambier. Attendance: 20

1 February 2008: Heywood FReeZA Event - Community Hall, Heywood. Attendance: 32

glenelg shire annual report 07-08 127 auditor - general’s report on the performance statements

glenelg shire annual report 07-08 128