2015 ANNUAL REPORT 2 3
The information in this report demonstrates accountability to stakeholders, who include residents and ratepayers, staff, councillors, investors, community groups, government departments and other interested parties.
COPIES OF THE ANNUAL REPORT Copies of both the Corporate Plan and this Annual Report are available free of charge electronically table of on council’s website, visit: www.northburnett.qld.gov.au contents
CONTACT US
All written communications to be addressed to:
“The Chief Executive Officer” 04 A message from our CEO 06 Divisional Boundaries 07 Our Elected Representatives PO Box 390 14 A message from our Deputy CEO 16 Workplace Health & Safety 34-36 Capper Street 18 Contact Centre Establishment 21 Libraries GAYNDAH QLD 4630 24 Australia Day 27 Non-recurrent Grants 28 Community Consultation 30 Community Development Phone: 1300 696 272 (1300 MY NBRC) 34 Community Grants & Donations 36 Digital Infrastructure Fax: (07) 4161 1425 39 Environmental Services 42 Development Services Email: [email protected] 44 Technical Services 46 Tropical Cyclone Marcia 48 Engineering Services 49 Community Financial Report Twitter: @NorthBurnettRC 53 Financial Statements 103 Statutory Policies Facebook.com/north.burnett.regional.council 115 Statutory Information
ABN: 23 439 388 197 4 5
A message from our CEO
Mark Pitt It gives me great pleasure to outlined by the Department Professional development and 30 June 2011: 216.9, 30 June present my sixth annual report of Infrastructure, Local learning opportunities are 2010: 240.3 and compares to for the North Burnett Regional Government and Planning and delivered either by external 224.5 fte as at 15 March 2008. Council and the seventh is continuing to work towards a training and workshops, All fte figures include casuals annual report for Council. balanced budgetary position. on-the-job training, forums but exclude trainees and and programs; and have been apprentices. Council has also Since 2011, Council has The 2014-15 financial year saw delivered either in-house or continued negotiations into the finalisation of the flood externally by training/industry the renewal of the Enterprise completed approximately reconstruction works resulting One of the many improvements specialists. In 2014-15 the Bargaining Agreement. $135 million worth of from Ex Tropical Cyclone Oswald resulting from Council’s learning and development in January 2013. Again our organisational restructure in opportunities included: Council is a major employer reconstruction works region was subject to the impact June 2014 was the review of in the North Burnett under National Disaster of nature with Tropic Cyclone the Learning and Development • 480 individual placements Region and is proud to Marcia affecting particularly Officer position which falls under at training courses and invest in traineeship and Relief & Recovery the norther part of the Council the Human Resources Stream. forums/ conferences apprenticeship opportunities. Arrangements (NDRRA) area in February 2015. Council, This position now delivers to We’ve experienced success Emergency Services and the the whole of the organisation, • 53 training events, 32 in cultivating people from community again responded focusing on the development, administered in-house within our local communities with absolute professionalism delivery, implementation, to become specialists in the in response to this event. monitoring and review of • 10 employees approved local government industry. cost-efficient learning and for vocational and/ or This has also been a key Since 2011, Council has development programs for tertiary studies; and element in planning for, and completed approximately $135 employees. Council aims to build nurturing Council’s future million worth of reconstruction upon workforce capabilities in • 49 new employees attended workforce. During 2014-15 works under NDRRA. Council order to successfully achieve the the NBRC Induction Program we had in employment: has worked closely with the organisation’s objectives, and to Queensland Reconstruction enhance organisational culture. During the 2014-15 financial • 3 Apprentice Mechanics Authority on the submissions year staff turn over was (Certificate III in Mobile Plant Finally I would acknowledge the Council for NDRRA so we can get on with Council is committed to 21.4%. This compares with Technology/ Engineering Leadership Team and the elected members the job of rebuilding as quickly providing opportunities for the 2013-14 financial year of Mechanical –Diesel) for their support during this year. As many as possible with repair works professional development and 12.6%, 2012-13 financial year would know I had a period of extended leave from Tropical Cyclone Marcia training to all employees, and of 26.9%, 2011-12 was 9.58%, • 2 Trainee Water & during the year and I would particularly like commencing in July 2015. this has begun by assessing 2010-11 23.3%, 2009-10 of Wastewater Treatment to acknowledge Brendan Pearce and David and identifying knowledge and 18.61% and 2008-09 figure of Operators (Certificate III Wiskar for their support and in their roles as It is pleasing to note that skill gaps with priorities given 14.29%. Full time equivalent in Water Operations) Acting Chief Executive Officer. The support Council is again within the to work health and safety and (fte) staff positions as at 30 June of David, the staff and the elected members recommended levels of legislative requirements. 2015 was 204. This compares • 4 Trainee Administration was greatly appreciated. I would thank you for financial sustainability for two with 30 June 2014: 203, 30 June Officers (Certificate III in taking the time to read this report and Council of the three statutory ratios as 2013: 203, 30 June 2012: 214.69, Business Administration) would welcome any feedback on the same. Divisional boundaries 6 7 of the North Burnett
Our elected representatives
Don was successful in contesting the position of Mayor of the North Burnett Regional Council in April 2012. Don was born in Atherton, North Queensland and attended Thornburgh College, Charters Towers for his secondary education. Followed his father into dairying at Millaa Millaa on the Atherton Tablelands and became a Director on the board of the Dairy Cooperative. Also, he was a Councillor on Eacham Shire for 16 years with the last six as Shire Chairman.
After leaving the north, he and his wife Carmel, travelled around Australia working in different places and doing a variety of jobs. They worked in Gayndah early in their travels and kept returning, to finally Cr Don Waugh put down roots and become totally involved in the Mayor community.
P: 0458 696 272 The Lions Club, Chamber of Commerce and Jockey E: [email protected] Club kept him aware of community direction. His involvement is now total and his love of the North Burnett very evident. 8 9
Faye completed a term in Local Government in the Paul joined Local Government in 1979 and with previous Mundubbera Shire before successfully changes to electoral boundaries has represented contesting the position of Councillor to Division three Divisions six (6), five (5) and two (2) of the former (3) of the North Burnett Regional Council in 2008. Monto Shire and in total served that Council for Cr Whelan was then elected unopposed to Division almost 20 years until its amalgamation. Paul three (3) of the North Burnett Regional Council in the successfully contested Division 1 of the North April 2012 elections. Burnett Regional Council in March 2008 and again in April 2012.
Faye was born in Gayndah and is descended from a family that arrived in the district in the 1850s. Paul is married to Monique and they have two adult She has lived in Mundubbera since 1971. With her children and one grand daughter. The Lobegeier husband Dan, they have three (3) children and seven family have followed a range of rural pursuits in the (7) grandchildren and wouldn’t live anywhere else. Monto district for many years and they now run a cattle fattening block at Kapaldo, south of Monto.
Faye brings a wealth of life experiences, having completed more than four decades in the retail Paul has been involved in numerous community sector with businesses in Gayndah and Mundubbera. organisations over a long period of time. He is Human social portfolios including Health, Transport, currently Chair of Monto Aged Care, Chair of the Cr Faye Whelan Aged Care, Youth Issues, Education and Sport & Cr Paul Lobegeier Burnett Catchment Care and has always been Deputy Mayor Recreation allows her to pursue issues that greatly Division 1 heavily involved in Natural Resource Management affect the North Burnett Region. at a State and Federal level, where he aspires to P: 0409 625 956 P: 0458 625 952 bring some balance and achieve a good outcome E: [email protected] E: [email protected] for the environment. He has a passion for the Arts Faye’s passion for where she lives is reflected in and is a member of the State Reference Group. He is her strong involvement in community groups and heavily involved in Tourism, through organisations associations and her commitment to enhancing the such as Bundaberg & North Burnett Tourism, North Burnett Region to achieve a better place for Australia Country Way, Rural Getaway and Monto people to live and work. Magic and believes the natural beauty of our area and its friendly people can assist the North Burnett economic development. 10 11
Paul, born in 1960, is a Farmer/Grazier from the Division 4 Councillor, Joanne Dowling, joined the Moonford area, north of Monto, where he has lived North Burnett Regional Council for her first term of since 1968. He has been running the business since office in 2012. 1980, and has been married to Mia since 1987. They A fourth generation Gayndah resident who has lived have two children, Hugh was born in 1989 and Alison in Gayndah all her life, Cr Dowling has committed in 1991. much of her life to the community of Gayndah and is a strong advocate for local business. Joanne, a Justice of the Peace (Qualified), has owned and operated two Paul was first elected to Monto Shire Council in July businesses in Gayndah for over 27 years. Out of her of 1998 and served until March of 2004 before being dedication to the town, Joanne co-founded the local re-elected in January 2005. He served as a Monto newspaper “Gayndah Gazette” in 1998. Shire Councillor until March 2008 when he was
elected as a North Burnett Regional Councillor for Joanne has been heavily involved in the Gayndah Division Two which includes the township of Eidsvold. Show Society from an early age. She held the position of Secretary for 19 years before resigning in 2001. Despite her resignation, she remained involved in the Paul is interested in all aspects of council operations, Show and in a support capacity to the secretaries of but his main aims are to see improved transport links following years as well as a term as president. Joanne across the North Burnett and more efficient use of is an active member of the Gayndah Chamber of ratepayer funds across council operations. Cr Paul Francis Cr Joanne Dowling Commerce and was recipient of the Australia Day Division 2 Other interests include Economic Development and Division 4 Citizen of the Year Award in 2011. Enterprise Bargaining. Your councillor has increased Appointing Joanne with the shared portfolios of his skill levels through external study and has a P: 0458 625 951 P: 0407 164 468 Governance and Human Social will allow her to Certificate IV in Business and an Advanced Diploma E: [email protected] E: [email protected] continue with her pursuit in working closely with her in Rural Business Management. community members.
In her role as Councillor, Joanne intends to work hard at the real and practical aspects needed to keep this area one of the strongest and most successful in the state and to become a valuable member of the team at North Burnett Regional Council. 12 13
John successfully contested the position of Councillor Lofty entered Local Government in March 2004 to Division five (5) of the North Burnett Regional as Councillor of the Biggenden Shire, was elected Council in the April 2012 elections. representative of Division 6 of the North Burnett Region in March 2008 and subsequently re-elected in April 2012. He also completed 12 years as He has resided in the North Burnett region for the Environmental Officer with Biggenden Shire Council. past 55 years and owns a property in the vicinity of This experience introduced him to local community Mingo Crossing and Ban Ban Springs. service which he undertakes with a passion in his current position.
John is a member of the Gayndah Show Society, The Wendt family arrived in Biggenden in 1956 and as Football Club, Gooroolba Committee, Gayndah a young man he joined the army. In a career spanning Museum and Ban Ban Rural Fire Brigade. 30 years, he rose to the rank of Regimental Sergeant Major of the Australian Army and served his country in places such as England, Malaya, Vietnam and New One of his favourite pastimes is finding the original Zealand. sites of many one teacher schools that were once Lofty together with his wife Wynsome, live in Degilbo dotted around the region. He has a love for old where he is very active in the community. He is a cars and owns a 1966 HR Holden which he states member of Biggenden Lions, RSL, and the Rugby “Is a pleasure to drive!” and is also a collector of old League Club, just to name a few. When not serving the Cr John Bowen bottles. Cr Kevin ‘Lofty’ Wendt OAM BEM Division 5 Division 6 community, he takes every opportunity to indulge in his passion for fishing, where he is involved with the John is passionate about the North Burnett region, “It Biggenden Amateur Fishing Club and Paradise Dam P: 0458 625 961 P: 0458 625 950 is a great place to live and bring up a family”. Stocking Association. E: [email protected] E: [email protected] He has been recognised on two (2) occasions for his leadership qualities whilst in the army. In 1969 he was awarded a BEM for what was deemed outstanding results and in 1982 he was awarded an OAM for leadership while serving in the 8th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment. 14
A message from our Deputy CEO
• Active and timely support for to have travellers stay longer in – To ensure that Council David Wiskar community from a range of State the region and spend more with is compliant with Act and Federal Government Agencies. local businesses during their stay; requirements, to enhance local procurement and to The Corporate and Community Services • Linking Libraries and Customer drive cost savings Council has In 2014-15, North Burnett Regional Council was again effected by significant adverse team have completed a number of key Service Functions – In an effort to implemented the procurement projects and initiatives which aim to streamline business, reduce costs transformation program. weather. Tropical Cyclone Marcia saw impacts across the North Burnett and the improve financial sustainability and and enhance community service, This program is creating event was particularly devastating to rural land owners in the North of the Region. the level of service to the Communities libraries and customer service new contracts for different of the North Burnett Region. Key have been integrated in Biggenden, categories of spending. activities and achievements include: Eidsvold, Monto and Mt Perry; • Disaster Co-ordination Centre • The establishment of the Call • Camping Strategy – Council – Council has secured funding Centre based at Monto – The developed a camping strategy of $1.1M from the Federal development of a centralised for the region. The strategy Government to enable the Before, during and after the event, TC Marcia many officers worked rebound from the event as quickly call centre (1300 MY NBRC) has identifies that the camping market building of a disaster co- Council received strong and welcome extremely long hours and went over as possible. These efforts led to the streamlined customer service, is changing and now includes; ordination centre in Gayndah. support from key State and Federal and above to respond to the needs following outcomes for the region: enhanced consistency of response seasonal workers, RV Motor Government Agencies including; of the community. It is particularly and freed up other officers; home , travellers and traditional • Community Consultation Queensland Fire and Emergency important to recognise the work of • The Federal Government campers. Resulting from this Council recognised the Services, Queensland Ambulance, Council’s road crews who completed in announcing Category D funding • Depreciation Optimisation strategy key outcomes have been importance of improved Queensland Police and through the record time emergency repairs to 169 support for rural producers; Program – Depreciation expense achieved via; In partnership with community consultation and volunteer emergency services groups roads with a value of $578,000 to allow is a significant factor, representing Local Chambers of Commerce the engagement for significant including the State Emergency Services. local producers and the community • NBRC Maximising the amount 32% of all Council costs. This year establishment of low cost camping projects and significant policy I would like to commend the people to get on with business. It is also of funding for road repair the finance team have worked sites in Monto and Biggenden. changes for the community. To involved in these services for their important to recognise those officers in the region ($10.7m); diligently to optimise depreciation These stops are enhancing the address this priority Council high levels of professionalism and the in the Water Sewage Team who worked and this work has seen the economy of these towns by has established a requirement strong leadership that they provided hard to restore water and sewage • The acceptance by the development of a more accurate providing easy access to local that all significant changes to the community throughout the services to Monto as quickly as possible Federal Government of the depreciation allowance in key retail precincts. The establishment and projects incorporate event and during the recovery phase. following the event. I also wish to importance of Council being asset categories. Overall this of the seasonal workers camp at a consultation element acknowledge the efforts of Councillors able to use day labour to work has reduced depreciation Mundubbera. This project has and resources have been I also wish to commend other and Staff in the LDMG in Gayndah and undertake repair programs; expense by $1.5M annually; minimised the impact of seasonal established in the Community community members in agencies in particular in LDMG sub Group in workers in the general community Development team to manage such as Blue Care, the Education Monto. The way team pulled together • Additional funding from • Wi-Fi and Web Portal – To capture and helped to build a positive these important conversations. Department, BCCA and many during this time is something that the the Federal Department of the economic benefits from the relationship with these important others who worked together to community should be duly proud of. Communities to provide support many ‘grey nomad’ travellers visitor workers to the region. I would like to take this opportunity help the community to achieve services to those community through the region, Council has, acknowledge the Managers the best possible outcomes. A strong part of the response to members affected by TC using State Government funding, • The adoption of a new planning and staff in the Corporate Cyclone Marcia was an active advocacy Marcia. (Of particular note is the installed free Wi-Fi services for scheme – this year Council and Community Services As a result of the long series of program undertake by the Mayor, establishment of a CDO position visitors to the region. To access the delivered a new planning team. Your hard work and disaster events over recent years, Deputy Mayor and Councillors to support local rural industry Wi-Fi visitors need to pass through scheme across the whole commitment to our communities Council officers have a high degree of to ensure that State and Federal providers for the next two years); a portal which promotes local North Burnett region. is acknowledge and valued. experience in supporting communities Government’s provided appropriate businesses, services and tourism to deal with challenging times. During support to enable the community to opportunities. This project aims • Procurement Transformation 16 17
Workplace Health & Safety Safety doesn’t happen by accident
Statistics
The 2014/15 period continued to provide challenges for 2014/15 2013/14 2012/13 2011/12 the implementation and Days Lost 79 95 233 244 2015-16 SafePlan continuing improvement of Work Health and Safety at North Claims 6 4 11 16 North Burnett Regional Council Burnett Regional Council. Total Injuries 31 34 36 39 has made significant gains in WHS. Now we must avoid complacency Lost Time Injuries (LTI) 10 10 15 16 and continue reducing incidents Lost Time Injury and injuries. Further gains will be Again there have been personnel Frequency 23.76 24.18 36.27 34.31 more challenging in our operating changes in Councils’ Safety Ratio (LTIFR) Health and Safety Committee environment of increased department with Shannon community expectations, reduced Wykes moving from shared HR New Health and Safety resources and ageing workforce, / WHS Administration officer Representatives for Monto plant and infrastructure. to full time HR Administration and Gayndah have joined Officer and Janet Murray joining the Committee. Thanks to For 2015/16 NBRC should be the WHS team as full time WHS Benchmarking Performance the former Monto, Gayndah targeting improved completion Administration Officer. Janet is also comparison and Eidsvold HSRs for their and return of Hazard reports undertaking a Cert IV in WHS. contribution to WHS at Council. and inspections as well as I have approached other councils plant prestart records and Risk in the Wide Bay region to share Nominations were called Assessments. Target of averaging performance measures for for a replacement HSR for 10 Incidents reported per month LGW Workers Compensation Claim comparison. The performance the Eidsvold workgroup. will remain to accommodate costs for 2014/15 were in the order indicator that some other councils improved near miss reporting. of $52,000 down from $68,000 the were prepared to share was Lost The committee has adopted previous year and over $700,000 33% 40% 27% Time Injury Frequency Ratio (LTIFR a target of North Burnett I believe North Burnett Regional the year before. However the Injuries Plant Other - Lost Time Injuries per million Regional Council achieving a Council has made significant contribution / premium will remain hours worked). Our LTIFR for Gold award (over 85% Audit progress with WHS performance at a high level going forward due Near misses, LTIs Damage Damage 2014/15 was 23.76 in comparison score) within 2 years. during 2014 -15 establishing the to the rolling average of claim costs the neighbouring councils who basis for further improvement used to calculate contribution Council had 101 reported WHS incidents, 31 being injuries including 10 lost provided figures achieved 22.69 and The committee has proved to result in the best possible levels. Council can however look time injuries (LTIs) with a remainder of 2 near misses. 41 plant damage and 27 9.1 and another Council achieved effective in the consultation safety performance. I would forward to a significant premium other damage. While our goal is to eliminate incidents and injuries the numbers 14.7. From this our goal is a short process and promoting WHS like to thank all involved for reduction in future years. are trending down even though the level of reporting has increased. to medium term target of 15. through the organisation. their help and cooperation. 18 19
Contact Centre Establishment Left: Kelly McCabe - previous Contact Centre Officer. An exciting new change
The Contact Centre was adopted as part of Council’s Tropical Cyclone Marcia 2014-15 budget deliberations and included as a key On Saturday, 21st February 2015 (during the Tropical Cyclone Marcia project in the capital program for this year event), Council requested that the Contact Centre open to provide 14,686 community members with general information regarding the tropical Left: Current team in the Contact Centre, Tracie Total calls cyclone, process requests for Myles - Customer Service & Libraries Stream assistance and to deliver public 24 Nov 2014 to Leader, Hannah Cooke - Contact Centre Officer, information announcements. Stacey Sanderson - Contact Centre Officer. 30 Jun 2015 The Contact Centre Team kept our communities informed and • Contact Centre Staff are updated with the newest news professionally trained to ensure regarding the weather event. that customers receive a high level of service, each time. This is an exciting new change for Council which Long Term Vision will help provide customers with consistent, The Monto Administration Office Rezdy Bus Booking System professional phone service and will also has been chosen as the location Initially the Contact Centre was help alleviate some of the call load on our to host the Contact Centre and In early January 2015, Contact used as a switchboard facility, customer service and administration staff. now comprises of two full time Centre staff were trained in Rezdy receiving calls and transferring positions and one team leader. – Council’s bus booking system. them to the appropriate The Contact Centre will be Council’s main link During the January to June period department for a response. between the customer and the rest of the Staff were placed through intensive 523 bus bookings were processed. organisation – providing timely, up-to-date training including a visit to Fraser Coast As the Contact Centre progresses and accurate information and advice to Regional Council Contact Centres in and staff knowledge grows, the team the community. Benefits of the Contact Hervey Bay and Maryborough. This will be able to address more queries Centre will include, but not limited to: provided an opportunity to explore Installation of NAB Transact at first point of contact, resulting in how a Contact Centre operated and a timelier, consistent professional • Customers are provided with the right the systems that were in place to Installation of NAB Transact which response for every customer. information at the right time; provide a consistent and professional was effective from 23 January 2015 service to their communities. saw the end of processing manual A massive congratulations to • Customers are provided with the credit card transactions within the staff that have assisted with same level of customer service each The Contact Centre commenced Council’s Customer Service Centres. the establishment of this facility, time, with consistent messages; operation on Monday, 24th November Customer’s wanting to pay accounts it has been an enormous task, 2014 and with the service available with Credit Card over the phone will successfully accomplished through • Customer’s queries are addressed in a timely from 8:30am to 4:30pm Monday to now call 1300 696 272 to process their hard work, commitment and manner – right request to the right area; and Friday (excluding public holidays). payment through the Contact Centre. remarkable teamwork. Well done. 20 21
Call Summary 70 Libraries 60
50 Streamlining services
40
30
20 Following the successful integration of library and front 10 counter services at Biggenden and Mount Perry in 2013, Eidsvold and Monto completed their merge in 2014 0 and 2015 respectively. These four branches now offer Above: Monto Library before renovations Nov-14 Dec-14 Jan-15 Feb-15 Mar-15 Apr-15 May-15 Jun-15 the public a ‘one stop shop’ for all council services. Average wait time Average speed of answer Average abandonment time Below: Monto Library & Administration Centre Combining the front counter and libraries in four of refurbished front counter/administation area our towns has provided a greater level of functionality and offers a practical and accessible open plan to better serve our communities. This allows an increase Monthly Department Call Totals in both library, Centrelink and QGAP opening hours, providing additional benefit to the community.
500
May-15 400 Loans & Reservations by Year Jun-15
300 Loans Reservations 80,000
200 70,000 10,309 10,071 60,000 58,457 100 55,741 9,168 11,830 50,000 9,247 40,000 45,321 44,225 0 42,095 30,000
20,000
10,000
0 10/11 11/12 12/13 13/14 14/15 22 23
Comparison of Loans by Format by Location
Above: Wall built in Eidsvold Library Above: The opening of the Eidsvold to accommodate office area. Library & Administration Centre
Gayndah Library Makeover In early May, Gayndah Library got a well deserved clean-up. Older paperbacks, magazines and dontations not suitable for the shelf, were removed from the system and put out on a giveaway table. Above left & right: Gayndah Library before Shelving was moved and rearranged to allow for Below left & right: Gayndah Library after a more open and user friendly space. By doing this the number of items remained the same but has taken up less floorspace. The main goal of the clean-up was to move the children’s area out of the room it was in, and create a bigger space to cater for the larger number of customers who utilise the library. 24 25
Australia Day Aussie, Aussie, Aussie Residents and visitors Award Recipients - Eidsvold Australia Day is the perfect opportunity recognised the outstanding Citizen of the Year Valerie Pashalis Junior Sports Award Malitha Cooper for residents to come together to celebrate achievement and contribution Young Citizen of the Year N/A Sports Administrator’s Award N/A of local individuals and Eidsvold State School what’s great about Australia and being Community Event of the Year Senior Cultural Award Barney Blucher 125th Centenary Australian. It’s a day for reflection on our groups throughout the Senior Sports Award N/A Junior Cultural Award N/A achievements and taking pride in our region during celebrations great nation, along with acknowledging hosted by Council the contributions and achievements of our region’s many unsung heroes.
Award Recipients - Gayndah
Citizen of the Year Dael Giddins Junior Sports Award N/A
Young Citizen of the Year N/A Sports Administrator’s Award Leah Trott 2015 Australia Day Ambassador, Associate Professor Dimity It was encouraging to see the attendance at Mt Perry’s Launch of the MARK Foundation Dornan AO, joined Mt Perry in celebrating Australia Day 2015 Australia Day celebrations, with all who attended Community Event of the Year Senior Cultural Award N/A - David & Kellie Millington on the 26th of January, 2015. The Ambassador Program given the opportunity to meet and speak with Dimity. She is an integral part of Australia Day and each Ambassador is an amazing Australian who is an inspiration to us all. Senior Sports Award Warwick Bellert Junior Cultural Award N/A is chosen for their achievements and ability to inspire. As the Ambassador, Dimity played an important role in the Dimity Dornan AO is a Speech Pathologist, and the Founder Mt Perry Australia Day celebrations, spreading messages of and Executive Director of Hear and Say. This not-for-profit inspiration and what it means to be Australian, attending the program opened in July 1992 and enables children with official Australia Day Ceremony and Australia Day Citizenship hearing loss to listen and speak through the use of modern Ceremony and joining the community in Celebrating a ‘New hearing technology combined with the simultaneous Little Arrival’ with the presentation of a Baby Certificate. education of parents and children (Auditory-Verbal Therapy). Award Recipients - Monto
Citizen of the Year Les Hotz Junior Sports Award Jessie Moscrop Award Recipients - Biggenden Young Citizen of the Year Jolie Kenny Sports Administrator’s Award N/A
Citizen of the Year Mr Darren Geissler Junior Sports Award Chloe Burt Monto State High School Community Event of the Year Senior Cultural Award Harold J Ware 50th Anniversary Young Citizen of the Year Miss Vanessa McIntyre Sports Administrator’s Award N/A Senior Sports Award Shane Carter Junior Cultural Award Ryan Cooke ‘Seussical the Musical 2014’ Community Event of the Year Ruff-n-Tuff Car Show Senior Cultural Award Dallarnil State School P-7
Senior Sports Award N/A Junior Cultural Award PCYC Emergency Services Cadets 26 27
Non Recurrent Grants
Date Project Funding Grant Name Project Application Council Total $ Requested $ Submitted
2014-14 Get Ready Qld Base Get Ready Queensland 7/07/2014 $5,820 $5,820 nil Grant (Acquitted 01/07/14)
Australian Government - Department of North Burnett Region Service Capacity $390,000 Social Services - Community Development 23/07/2014 $390,000 nil and Sustainability Building (GST exc) and Participation (Unsuccessful 22/12/14)
Australian Government - Department Riding the Grey Nomad Revolution $407,406 of Social Services - Volunteering 23/07/2014 $299,866 $107,540 to build the North Burnett Region (GST exc) (Unsucccessful 22/12/14)
From Left: Cr John Bowen, 2015 Australia Day Australian Government - Department Working and Living Together $400,406 Ambassador - Professor Dimity Dornan AO, and of Social Services - Diversity and Social 23/07/2014 $299,362 $101,044 in the North Burnett (GST exc) Mt Perry Citizen of the Year - Kerry Bettiens Cohesion (Unsuccessful 22/12/14)
Australian Government - Department $5,000 of Social Services - Multicultural Arts Multicultural Citrus Harvest Kick Off 23/07/2015 $5,000 nil (GST exc) and Festivals (Unsuccessful 22/12/14) Award Recipients - Mt Perry 2014-15 GraffitiSTOP Funding 2014-15 GraffitiSTOP Funding Program N/A $3,910 N/A nil Program (Acquitted 01/07/15) Citizen of the Year Kerry Bettiens Junior Sports Award Bailey Nicholson
Digital Infrastructure to drive Young Citizen of the Year Johanna Cleary Sports Administrator’s Award Mount Perry Race Club Committee 2014-15 Royalties for the Regions - local economic growth along the 26/09/2015 $1,154,791 $828,531 $286,250 Round 4 (Unsuccessful 15/04/15) Community Event of the Year Axemen & Sawyers Charity Auction Senior Cultural Award Cheryl Gerdes Australian Country Way (A3)
Senior Sports Award Judy Davey Junior Cultural Award Mount Perry Youth Group NBRC Aerodrome Upgrades - To be 2014-15 Royalties for the Regions - Round 4 26/09/2014 $11,130,860 $8,704,666 Gayndah, Monto and Mundubbera confirmed
2014 Get Playing Plus North Burnett Sportsground Upgrade 20/10/2014 $811,850 $543,940 $267,910 (Unsuccessful 05/01/15)
Department of Infrastructure Australian Local Government Women’s $2,200 Local Government and Planning Association - Queensland Annual 13/08/2015 TBA TBA (inc GST) (Acquitted 13/08/15) State Conference Sponsorships Award Recipients - Mundubbera SES Non Recurrent Grant Subsidy Program Eidsvold SES Shed Internal Fitout 13/08/2015 $45,000 $35,000 $10,000 - 2015-16 (Unsuccessful 15/06/15) Citizen of the Year Roslyn Kugel Junior Sports Award Tayleigh Fry-Allan
Tourism Demand-Driver $177,474 $86,820 Young Citizen of the Year Misty Tucker Sports Administrator’s Award Gavin Ford North Burnett Wi-Fi Infrastructure Project TBA $90,654 Infrastructure (TDDI) Program (GST exc) (GST exc) Community Event of the Year Bush Policeman’s Ball Senior Cultural Award Malcolm Brown Online Public Access in Libraries Senior Sports Award Ben Allan Junior Cultural Award Afe Maile (OPAL) Grant - Technology Trendsetter iPad Training Roadshow 29/04/2015 $16,765 $7,249 $9,516 2015-16 (Unsuccessful 30/06/2015) Special Service Award Steven Crofts Special Recognition Certificate Dave Saunders Passenger Transport Accessible Upgrade of Long Distance Coash Stops 27/05/2015 $155,176 $155,176 $0 Infrastructure Program 28 29
The Consultation activities undertaken Community Consultation have had a positive effect with the majority of the community appreciating the opportunity to receive information Suggestions and feedback regarding what was happening, ask questions, receive quality answers and the access to Council officers.
Furthermore these sessions assist North Burnett Regional Council works closely with Council in their work, as information our communities to ensure that suggestions and from the Consultations is incorporated into project plans. An example of this feedback from individuals help guide Council’s is the questions regarding the region’s decision making processes and works programs. roads that came out of the Roads Roadshow allowing Council to better understand residents’ issues thereby giving Council more opportunity to In 2015, Council resolved to further develop the community address these concerns or dispel any consultation strategy and to dedicate resources to better plan myths. The relationship building aspect consultation opportunities for major projects. Council acknowledged of these Consultation activities can and adopted three levels of engagement and consultation being: not be underestimated with many seemingly hostile attendees being “turned around” to become inclusive and receptive. Having a member of the Information Consultation Active participation CDO Team deliver these Consultations Above: has given the community a “face” Roads Roadshow with which to communicate. It is Gayndah believed this has actually encouraged Consultation (continued) residents to approach Council with their concerns and issues. Eidsvold Water Garage 10/ongoing Eidsvold ongoing Across region Treatment Plan Sale Trail Additionally, the CDO team have been tasked with arranging the Re-Opening Consultation Working Ceremonies for both the Mundubbera An assessment of the appropriate associated funding sourced from Guyatt’s Bridge, with Local 5 Gayndah and Gayndah Aerodromes. The level/s of consultation will be made both State and Federal Governments. 32 Across region Gayndah Government Aerodrome projects came about due for each of Council’s major projects, Various methods of Consultation were Item Attendees Location EOI Workshop Baldwin’s to the regions necessity to upgrade with a combined effort from all employed ranging from community Concrete 9 Monto aerodrome to accept the Royal Flying relevant sections of Council. group meetings to one-on-one Roads Cahalane 97 Across region 8 Monto Batching Plant Doctor’s Service new aircraft fleet. The discussions either personally, by Roadshow Road, Monto Mundubbera Re-Opening is scheduled The CDO Team has undertaken letter or by phone. Various media to occur on Saturday, 26th September Community Consultation activities methods were also utilised to inform Gayndah Aerodrome Mundubbera/ 2015, and the Gayndah Re-Opening is on a total of 11 different projects. the Community regarding Council’s 54 Cemetery 12 Gayndah reconstruction Gayndah scheduled to occur in early 2016 with The majority of these projects have activities across the region. These Redevelopment Monto Aerodrome being scheduled originated with the Technical Services methods consist of the Central North Macks Bridge, Friends of to be rebuilt in 2016 as well. Department involving work under Burnett Times, Facebook, public 9 Monto ongoing Across region Monto the gardens Council’s Capital Works budget with notices and Council’s website. 30 31
Right: Community Development Movies in the hall Monto Enabling our communities
Left: Burnett State College Gayndah
Right: ‘After the emergency’ Below: MP3 player ‘Inflight meal’ prepared by community groups
Taking Shelter Box made their visits even more relevant. can prepare for these. Students were Movies in the Halls Movies in the Halls sessions to the Schools CDOs used the opportunity of school particularly thankful for receiving aimed to and succeeded at: visits to interview local school students ‘After the Emergency’ MP3 players, North Burnett Regional Council The Commu ity Development Officers about emergencies, how they can look donated by Red Cross which were partnered with Mundubbera Baptist • Bringing the community (CDOs) visited Schools in the North after themselves and each other in an given to the Students by the CDO’s. Church utilising its large inflatable together for a fun social event; Burnett with the Shelterbox game emergency, as well as tips and advice movie screen to create a very – a disaster preparedness game for other kids, with the view that these Memorable messages from successful real cinema experience in • Providing community members that challenges youth to think about would be made into a mini-movie students included: the North Burnett. Two family (G-rated) access to community services how to prepare and respond before, to be broadcast at community movies with a ‘resilience’ theme where and resources (mental during and after an emergency. In events such as Movie Nights. “Thank you for giving us an iPod screened at 3pm for younger children health, counselling etc.); addition to purchasing the 3x3m and Emergency brochure. It means and 6pm for older children and adults. interactive map game board, funding These school visits were also an a lot more than I can say. If only • Informing and promoting was used to purchase additional opportunity for CDOs to evaluate we didn’t get hit from the flood, To coincide with regional airstrip the opportunities of the new resources including musical bells (team community awareness and usage of cyclone and earthquake. Now upgrades, the movies (and overall airport development; buzzers), toy cars (to be driven to ‘safe’ emergency preparedness resources. we know how to handle real life event) had an aviation theme places in the town) and 3D moulds emergencies. I wish floods won’t that promoted this initiative • Acknowledging Community representing emergency situations After visiting the majority of schools happen again. Thank you. From Jess.” and the tourism, economic Drought Support Funding such as – bushfire, flood, cyclone, in the region the CDOs were delighted and social opportunities these (making event possible); tsunami, earthquake and volcano. to receive letters and cards from “Thank you for giving us our MP3 will bring to the region. Mundubbera State School’s year players. Thank you for the ongoing • Initiating NBRC Tourism/economic Shelterbox visits coincided with two 4-6 students, thanking them for support you give our school. These development strategy. natural events including an earthquake coming to their school to play the are the best things I have ever on 16 February and the arrival of Shelterbox game, discuss disasters had. Thank you. From Jaydon.” Cyclone Marcia on 20 February which that can affect them and ways they 32 33
The event invited people to come The blue emergency Grab n’ Go During intermission, children and be in the house, and how to contact Community Recovery household for an emergency (since to their community hall to enjoy a bags were also provided for the adults were invited to make their owners in the event of emergency. Information Stalls – 2015 the 2013 event and subsequent free movie on the big screen with “passengers” to take representing own paper plane and compete in Agricultural Shows flood recovery initiatives) for a an ‘inflight’ meal prepared by local a “life jacket” which contained a a paper plane flying competition. While these stickers are intended chance to win a Red Cross wind-up community groups, who received Recipe for Disaster cook book, an Prizes included the Paper Plane novel to alert emergency personnel to CDO’s attended each of the 6 township torch radio valued at $60. a donation to their organisation Emergency Action Guide and a Get or an MP3 Player donated by the the presence of animals, ‘Save Our shows throughout April and May 2015, for their service. This also provided Ready Prepare your Pantry magnet Australian Red Cross which contained Pets’ stickers will not change usual to give residents a final opportunity Survey results will be used to gauge an opportunity for the community and shopping list. It also included an “awesome” Aussie music and expert search and rescue procedures and to collect emergency preparedness which towns are more/less prepared, groups involved to network with each inflight etiquette card with the contact advice and tips such as meditation, do not guarantee personnel can information and resources at the which actions people have taken to other and strengthen relationships. details of local community service to assist young people who have always rescue pets. By providing this ‘one-stop-shop’ information stall. prepare, reasons why they have not providers (Lifeline, DV Connect etc.). experienced a natural disaster. community service, North Burnett taken precautionary action, whether Regional Council can give peace of As a last hurrah for the community, a they would purchase a pre-packaged mind to residents, especially those with photo booth was organised as part of Emergency Kit and what price they Grab n Go emergency kit impaired mobility, vision or hearing, NBRC’s stall to encourage people to would be willing to pay for this that their pets have representation dress up in novelty wigs, glasses, hats shopping bags and magnets most of the ‘every-day items’ they in an emergency situation. and costumes and have a laugh on us. buy can make up an emergency Each photo booth patron received a 4 The design for emergency kit bags food store for their family. Once photo strip with the caption ‘Every face Arts and Culture – Regional was revised to incorporate emergency the shopping list has been spent, a has a place in our community’. The Arts Development Fund numbers, preparedness tips and constant reminder message remains caption was chosen to underpin that a icons of suggested emergency kit on the magnet to prompt residents. sense of belonging in the community 2015 saw another exciting year for items. These were designed to be increases its resilience. Copies of these Arts and Culture in the North Burnett. easier for seniors, CALD persons were pasted in a photo album which Council’s main Arts program, the and children to see and remember. will be displayed at each town library. Regional Arts Development Fund, was The objective of the bag is to make it Save Our Pets heavily subscribed with over $98k easier for people to create their own Disaster preparedness information being issued to community members emergency kit by providing them with North Burnett’s most vulnerable included an example Emergency and groups. These projects were the starting point – the bag – as well as residents have a new resource to help Grab n’ Go Kit contents and pricelist, very well received and attended suggested contents to fill them with. them be recognised in an emergency, Save Our Pets stickers, Prepare your by communities and provided an with the introduction of ‘Save Our Pantry shopping list magnets and opportunity for our residents to During a previous disaster event, Pets’ stickers to the community in Recipes for Disaster cook books. engage with Arts and Culture. Council developed re-usable February 2015. The attention-grabbing shopping bags, printed with a stickers alert rescue personnel that Visitors to the stall received a goodie list of non-perishable food and pets may be inside a home in the event bag of resources and were invited health products that can be stored of an emergency or evacuation. Project Highlights to complete a short survey on what in case of an emergency. they had done to prepare their Photography professional Pet owners can complete their details $2,000 This list was revised to a 50 page on the sticker, including the number development shopping list note-pad fridge of cats, dogs and other animals Business skills for creatives $7,137 magnet, which lists items as a that usually reside at the property. Sounds within Scenes Monto tick option on the shopping list, Owners have the option to add their acting workshop preparedness messages and call contact number to the sticker to be Development of a local to action to store non-perishable quickly reunited with their pets. $8,700 children’s television series items in case of an emergency. Completed stickers can be attached North Burnett short Similar to the Grab n’ Go emergency kit to the front door, front gate, mailbox film workshops & $31,599 shopping bags, these lists aim to take or other obvious location to alert film development the ‘chore’ out of putting together an police, fire and SES officers and other Various arts workshops Over $33,500 emergency kit by showing shoppers rescue authorities that pets could 34 35
Community Grants & Donations Support was provided to help The Figures community organisations to run events and activities and for individuals to access state and national level sporting opportunities In the financial year of 2014-15 Council distributed a total $65,457.72 in Community Grants across the Bundaberg PCYC was invited to participate in North Burnett communities. the Entertainment and Street Parade. The theme for this year’s Orange Festival was “Gayndah Orange Festival goes Mandarin into the Asian Century”. The Gala Ball was a sell out having over 350 people attend. The Art Show Opening and Wine and Cheese Night was supported very well with over 300 people through the doors. In addition Council continued to size over the long weekend in June provide photocopies and hall hire with all the festivities that the festival Grants to each services at nominal rates for all provided in addition to other events community local Not-for-profit organisations. such as the Gayndah Races. Most popular of the festivities was the A large donation of $10,000 was Grand Parade and stalls. This year made to Action Rescue Helicopter proved to be one of the biggest and Biggenden $3,777.29 which provides life-saving emergency best years for the Orange Festival. Eidsvold $1,126.99 transport across the North Burnett Gayndah $19,706.71 and $10,000 to the Bundaberg The Orange Festival is a time when Health Service - Rotary House which many reunions occur - family, school Above: Monto $12,766.49 supports residents while receiving or just friends reconnecting. Many Gaydan hanging with the Geisha Mt Perry $3,584.95 medical treatment in Bundaberg. tourists visit the area at this time and girls at the Orange Festival the township was full to overloading Mundubbera $3,114.81 Our Community Grants program also when it came to accommodation. Right: Regional Donations $21,457.72 provided significant assistance to Gaydan and the Brass Band the Orange Festival 2015. Gayndah’s TOTAL $65,457.72 population would have doubled in 36 37
Funding for the North Burnett Wi-Fi Infrastructure project was Digital Infrastructure made available by North Burnett Business and Regional Council ($100,000.00) and organisations can Wi-Fi & touch screens the Tourism Demand-Driver Infra- structure (TDDI) program funded be as interactive as by the Commonwealth Government through the Queensland they like with their Government ($86820.45). webpage. The editing feature is easy to use.
Council has worked for years to A full on site assessment and review • Mundubbera: Black Stump promote the Australian Country Way was conducted on all proposed a n d B i - C e n t e n n i a l P a r k ( W i - F i ) and Rural Getaway as an alternative Wi-Fi hotspots and touch screen Information Centre (Touch screen) route to the North. National Research locations. Wi-Fi sites were selected shows 80,000 RVs are travelling the based on RV usage. Driver Reviver • Monto: Lions Park (Wi-Fi) highways and this figure is growing. areas and deemed council rest and Lister Street Information 3. Linked to the new business Businesses and organisations can be areas were top priority areas. Centre (Touch screen) and community portal as interactive as they like with their To help tourist’s access local business/organisation webpage. information about sightseeing, The North Burnett Wi-Fi/Touch National research shows • Mt Perry: Memorial Park The touch screens and Wi-Fi contain The editing feature is easy to use restaurants, travel, accommodation Screen Locations are as follows: (Wi-Fi & touch screen) 80,000 RVs are travelling a portal which will provide web links and was designed for the non tech and events the Queensland to local businesses and services. savvy person. After businesses and Government in partnership with • Eidsvold: RM Williams Centre the highways and this • Biggenden: Wi-Fi and Touch screen community groups have edited their the North Burnett Regional Council and Lions Park (Wi-Fi) install was delayed at this site until figure is growing The platform that the Wi-Fi operates listing it is then submitted to Council for rolled out a network of free Wi-Fi further community consultation on uses an online log in, were a pop review and approval prior to uploading. hotspots at Visitor Information Centres • Gayndah: Zonhovan Rest occurred. A suitable location was up screen appears. Along the bottom and other tourist hot spots around Area, Lions Park (Wi-Fi) agreed upon and refurbishment of the Wi-Fi login is a rolling display of Local Directory training sessions were the region and touch screens. Gayndah Museum Information of a decommissioned local businesses aimed at showcasing conducted with local businesses/ centre (Touch screen) amenities block into a tourism what is available in each community. community groups showing them There were four main elements to booth is in the process. Wi-Fi use is free for up to 200mb per how to update their own information the Digital Infrastructure Project: devise per day. After 200mb users on this site. Individual sessions The North Burnett Wi-Fi/touch are ‘logged off’ the system and have were also conducted with those screen locations infrastructure was the option to purchase additional mb who were unable to attend or installed by the June 30th 2015. for $2.00 per 200 mb. The system require additional assistance. resets every night at midnight. The touch screens were rolled The touch screens information mimics out in the following stages: The touch screens and website the information on the website. This allows local businesses and website and the touch screens have the 1. ‘Coming Soon’ message community groups to log into the capacity to be expanded and tailored on each unit back-end access to their section to the needs of the Council and region. on the website only for editing. Touch Wi-Fi Website Road 2. Rolling display of community/ screens access signage regional images Offictas sitatinimi, consed eium diassim 38 debit, cor res etur aut elibuscia a 39 dolupti qui doluptatus et adi sitis qui
A number of external Contractors lighting, shelter and direct linkage were used to deliver this project to Councils Wi-Fi facilities. However, after strong feedback was received • Proterra was contracted to from the community for the touch manage the installation of the screen to be located in an area that infrastructure (Touch screen, contained no power, no infrastructure, Wi-Fi), and designed the signage. no shelter but was the prime parking Environmental Services location for the travelling public in • Savvy Paper and Pixels were Biggenden. The local Chamber of engaged for the programing Commerce was keen to partner with It’s a load of rubbish side of the project and branding Council to look at additional funding development (Website and to have an information centre in the Kiosk programs) and; heart of Biggenden. Though this will be a fantastic long term ‘community • Councils IT department assisted ownership’ outcome for this project, Our Environmental Services team is committed with equipment compatibility/ it impacted greatly on the completion to quality community and environmental standardisation and placement time for this site. The Biggenden as well as developed the relocation process has resulted in health, pest management, and natural resource new Wi-Fi platform. the establishment of an unmanned management outcomes. This includes the tourism information facility, through A number of the sites posed an issue the use of the decommissioned implementation of the pest management plan, with connectivity to Council’s existing amenities. Biggenden was one of two natural resource management, the protection Wi-Fi network. For example, Zonhoven communities in the North Burnett that Park in Gayndah did not have direct line did not have a ‘community tourism and promotion of community health through of site to Council’s water towers (there information hub’. Tourism information regulation of food safety, waste management, is infrastructure installed that could is provided through Council and local have been used to ‘bounce’ the signal, businesses during business hours recycling and environmental compliance however, this required direct line of site but there is very limited information to and from the sites. The direct line available outside of business hours. of site was impeded by a large number The decommissioned amenities will of trees. An alternative location was be converted to accommodate the Food Licensing used higher up the hill which provided touch screen and Wi-Fi, but it will also direct line of site to Zonhoven without have provision for local businesses Council continues to monitor food businesses to ensure the removal of trees. As there was no and organisations to promote their businesses and community groups meet their obligations existing internet infrastructure (there community to the travelling public. under the Food Act and comply with these regulations. was power) there was a significantly The local Chamber of Commerce is There have been no fines or penalties issued. higher cost for the Wi-Fi at this site. committed to ensure that this facility is well maintained and contains relevant Another site variation was the information for the travelling public. Biggenden site. The initial touch screen location assessment showed that the Council administration was the best location, given the fact that is was deemed to be the towns information centre, there was power, adequate Food Business 91 Licences 40 41
Total Waste Received 15
Service requests Permits to burn along Council Animals - Livestock - Wild 270 Noxious Weeds 55 controlled 744 ton 1,165 ton Environmental Health 55 Odour - Dust - Smoke 8 roads Green waste Construction & demolition Litter & Illegal Dumping 8 Rubbish Collection 13 44
Mosquitoes 9 Waste Management 3 Stock route Noise 9 TOTAL 530 agistment & travel permits 3,011 ton 2,224 ton Municipal solid waste Commercial & industrial
Food Licensing Pest Management
Council continues to monitor food Council continues to work with local Average No. of businesses to ensure businesses groups, and adjoining Councils, to 32% and community groups meet their assist property owners manage and Weekly Services obligations under the Food Act and prioritise pest and weed management 1,370 comply with these regulations. There across the North Burnett. Commercial have been no fines or penalties issued. Domestic 68% 2,940 Environmental Displays 18 ton Mosquito Control Program Council held environmental , weed, Batteries pest , and mosquito displays, at Council’s Environmental Services various shows and workshops across Team continue to undertake the North Burnett. These displays surveillance activities and promote allow landholders and residents to awareness of the risks of mosquito view and ask for valuable information 1000 L borne illness in the region. Several on these topics. Displays are a key team members attended the MOZ Oil component of Council’s ongoing 01 training to improve their skills. environmental education program.
Grant Funding 108 ton Council received grants for Cardboard assisting in the management of feral pigs, wild dogs. The program included coordinated baiting days, two educational events (trapping workshops) and a 300 ton trapping program for wild dogs. Scrap Metal Top Left: Image Description 42 43 Image Location
Develpment Services Compliance
Implementing & progressing Unauthorised Camping
Building and Plumbing Joint enforcement activities involving certification The North Burnett Regional We have expanded our planning, building and Council and the Queensland Police Service showed an improvement in The number of building application plumbing portfolio through a change in Councils’ controlling unauthorised camping approved reflected the state wide activities throughout the area organisational structure. Local laws compliance, trend and sluggish economy. Likewise, during the fruit picking season. project management of Councils own assessable the number of plumbing applications Pound Operations approved was symptomatic Enforcement processes involved building projects and management of Councils’ of the economic climate. The North Burnett Council Animal the issuing of Caution Notices to Impound Facility located in cultural heritage are now functions of this section. campers for any unauthorised activity There were notable changes Gayndah received major works as well as providing information in legislation, these being: to its infrastructure to provide and pro-active interaction between improvements in the facilities security campers and enforcement officers. • Commencement of the QDC MP function and operational use. With Additional signage was placed in parks 3.7 for farm buildings providing additional fencing and compounds and rest areas to help tourists and concessions for special fire services created all impounded dogs now seasonal pickers identify appropriate and the like, dependant upon the have the capacity to be left within a Planning The State has identified and approved camping areas. proposed use of the building. secured fenced area, not only providing four key principles: shelter from the elements, but also The 2014-15 year saw a significant • Revised version of the QDC providing an open spaced fenced milestone for planning and enabling responsible MP 1.4 Building over or near exercise yard for each enclosure. development—the first Planning development Policies and Processes 1 relevant infrastructure Scheme for the entire North Burnett Region commenced on 3 November stimulating economic All legislation relating to compliance • Review of the Building Act 1975 and 2014, replacing the previous six growth and innovation matters has now been reviewed, 2 building certification contained separate Planning Schemes. After updated and remains available within the Wallace report several years of negotiation with State ensure genuine public for public viewing on the Council agencies, and following a rigorous participation in the Websites. Internal processes, duties 3 • Commencement of the NCC process, the new Planning Scheme now planning process and responsibilities also continue 2015 on 1 May, 2015. forms a key means of implementing to be reviewed and updated. Council’s vision to “create an active Planning reform deliver clear and concise • Following the review of the and thriving region, progressively legislation that supports 4 Building Act, major changes are enhancing the social, economic and The State Government has been effective and efficient planning mooted in the near future. cultural assets of the community”. consulting Councils and other and development assessment. stakeholders throughout the year Further improvements to the Gayndah There were no major changes made The Scheme was the first in about major reforms to the planning Whilst the number of subdivision facility will continue to be made which to plumbing legislation nor practises. Queensland to incorporate SPP system with the objective of a applications were similar to those include a microchipping/treatment room Council continued the employment interactive mapping rather than new planning act in 2016. Council approved in each the last four which when completed will allow the of a plumbing/drainage consultant to its own maps, thus creating representatives will continue to have an years, the number of MCU’s and commencement of microchipping from undertake assessments, inspections savings for the Council. active part in the consultation process. other planning approvals fell. the facility by qualified Council staff. and provide general advice. 44 45
Technical Services Two trainees were employed in the • Installation of a mini sewerage $ department. Both will complete a treatment plant to service the 1,186,000 Behind the scenes Certificate 3 over the next two years. Mount Perry Caravan Park, The trainees are attached to the public toilets, administration capital plan completed Biggenden and Monto work teams building, town hall, works depot and SES complex. Operation & Maintenance • A new skate park was • The commencement of a built in Mount Perry This year saw another flooding systematic asset verification and event with ex TC Marcia condition assessment program, • Security cameras were causing high flood water levels results of which have been used in installed in the Monto CBD. Water & Sewerage throughout the Council area. the determination of capital works programs for the next two years. • Security cameras and solar Personnel There was minimal damage to the lights were installed at the water and sewerage infrastructure. Gayndah skate park. Supervisor Matt Cook participated The recently reconstructed water in the WIOA New Zealand Tour intakes for both Mundubbera and as part of his 2013-14 Qld Water Gayndah withstood the flooding events Operator of the year award. and both water schemes remained Facilities Facility Maintenance operable throughout the event. Manager Trevor Harvey completed Personnel • Both Martin Love Oval and his two year term as Chairman of Capital the Gayndah Sports ground qldwater. Trevor was also appointed Rachael Brauer resigned were aerated and top to the inaugural LGAQ Water & A $1,186,000 capital plan was as Facilities officer dressed during the year Sewerage Advisory board completed with no carry-over projects. The major projects were: Melinda Thorburn was appointed • A high rate of air conditioner the new Technical Officer Facilities failures caused the office • The upgrade of the Eidsvold maintenance budget Sewerage Treatment Plant to be exceeded. including the conversion Asset Management of the third lagoon to a Capital submersed rock filter. • A new filtration plant was • Initial design work for the installed in the Monto Pool Operations proposed new Eidsvold Water Treatment Plant. • A new filtration plant and The Assetic asset maintenance filter shelter were installed program was purchased on a one in the Gayndah pool year agreement to assist with the financial revaluation process. A significant amount of asset staff time was directed into the combining of multiple asset registers and data cleansing. This has been a huge benefit for the introduction of an operating asset management system which Above: Water into and out of the water Above: Water flowing over the new will be the basis of future council treatment plant during the flood Gayndah water intake works planning and budgeting. 46 47
Tropical Cyclone Marcia 20 February 2015
On the 20th of February 2015 Arrangement (NDRRA). These Tropical Cyclone Marcia crossed the works commenced in June 2015 $ Queensland coastline just to the north and will continue until July 2016. 528,603.38 of Yeppoon and continued to the South West in a path that included As this is the third natural disaster total works were completed the North Burnett Region. Some area event to affect North Burnett in the to re-open Council roads of North Burnett received rainfall in space of just over 5 years we have excess of 180mm in a four hour period noticed some areas of road have network to our residents from this event causing widespread been damaged several times. The damage to infrastructure, crops and Federal Government and Queensland farmland and residential buildings. State Government have established a Betterment fund to allow for In line with Council disaster plans a Councils to reconstruct assets to a Co-Ordination centre was established more resilient standard than they Black Horse Creek Road, Mt Perry Yenda - Benyenda Bridge, Gayndah in Gayndah with each town disaster currently are. North Burnett lodged sub-group being activated in readiness applications for 21 Betterment projects to assist the community response spread throughout the area that to the impending weather system. will provide for an improvement to the North Burnett road network. Airport Road, Monto In relation to Council infrastructure a total of 169 roads received some damage and required emergent works to be carried out. This work was carried out through a combination of Council works crews and local contractors in the days and weeks following the event.
Following the emergent works period Council undertook a detailed damage assessment in partnership with the Queensland Reconstruction Authority (QRA). This damage assessment highlighted damage on 266 roads which would require restoration. North Burnett has received approval to complete $10,795,097.75 of restoration works in line with the Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Stockhaven Road,Gayndah Redvale Road, Mundubbera 48 49
Engineering Services Viable Solutions
COMMUNITY The 2014-15 financial year was once Council’s workforce, now well drilled The Water and Sewerage were kept again another year that through up in responding to these events, busy with the commissioning of new some challenges but also saw Council swung into gear and quickly had raw water intakes at Gayndah and delivering some major achievements. emergent works completed and Mundubbera and also a new sewerage essential public infrastructure treatment plant at Mingo Crossing. FINANCIAL REPORT In February 2015 the North Burnett back in operation where possible. region was impacted by Severe Following damage assessments and Ongoing upgrade works were also Tropical Cyclone Marcia with submissions to the QRA, permanent completed at the Eidsvold Sewerage extensive damage to both private repairs will be undertaken in the treatment plant using an award winning and public infrastructure. first half of the 2015-16 year. low cost innovation for improved filtration first trialled and proven successful by Council in Biggenden.
Some major achievements completed day-labour workforce, funded by the throughout the year included the Department of Transport and Main completion of bitumen sealing to Roads, on Eidsvold-Theodore Road. The year also saw the commencement the final unsealed link on Gayndah- of a new kerbside garbage collection Mundubbera Road providing improved Council’s workforce has successfully contract with JJ Richards and Sons. access for freight, workers and reconstruct, raise, widen and lengthen The changeover to a new contract travellers between the two towns. the Mundubbera Airfield using a can be difficult with new routes to The completion of this link has been combination of external funding learn and tweaking of schedules a long standing vision of both towns sources. Council’s team won the however the new contractor and the going back nearly two decades. bid for the works in an open tender Environmental Services team have environment and many of Council’s stepped up and hit the ground running Other major projects completed staff from other parts of the region and with two new purpose built trucks included the reconstruction of had the opportunity to work on this providing a great and reliable collection Splinter Creek Bridge near Bancroft project, gaining valuable experience service to Council and ratepayers. and a large program of private in this type of construction. works, delivered by Council’s 50 51
This Community Financial Report aims to simplify and provide a Operational Expenses Council spent $24.27 million during Capital Items summary of the financial statements into a plain English explanation Points of interest the year on employee costs and for our residents, businesses and other stakeholders. Where was the money spent in 2014-15? materials and services. These In addition to the operating revenues Flood Restoration items represent a cost to council and expenses Council also receives Financial Statements Ex Tropical Cyclone Oswald Restoration Depreciation & amortisation - -34% of providing services, operating support from the State Government works was completed as at 30 June 2015. facilities and maintaining assets. and Federal Government, for Financial statements are formal records of the financial Total Restoration Expenditure over Employee benefits - -37% the construction and acquisition performanceand position of Council. 2013-14 and 2014-15 was $109 million Finance costs have decreased by 7% of capital items. This money is with $20 million spent in 2014-15. In 2015 Materials & services - -28% or $16,000 from the previous period irregular and specific to the purpose There are four financial statements that assist in providing a Council sustained damage from Severe due to no additional borrowings for which the grant was received high level picture of council finances - These include: Tropical Cyclone Marcia. Restoration Finance costs - -1% 2012-13, 2013-14 or 2014-15. and is therefore not included in works was not started as at 30 June 2015, operational revenue. In 2014-15 this • Statement of Comprehensive Income however is expected to be undertaken Depreciation expenditure of $12.736 was $17,422,860 – consisting of: • Statement of Financial Position throughout 2015-16 and 2016-17. million records the consumption of • Statement of Changes in Equity assets controlled by council over the 1. $353,349 Upper Burnett • Statement of Cash Flows Rates, Levies & Charges useful lives and provides an indication Early Warning System Total revenue from rates, levies and of what the level of expenditure charges was $13,922,604. This is an on rehabilitation and renewal of 2. $40,000 Disaster Statement of Comprehensive Income increase of $498,539 from 2013-14 existing assets is required annually. Management Building or 3.71%. Contributed to 38% of Purpose: often referred to as the Profit & Loss. shows all the revenue the all Council Operating Revenue in Council is currently undertaking a 3. $66,236 CCTV Camera Grants council has earned and the expenses incurred for the financial year. 2014-15 (an increase of 1%). project to review and assess the current depreciation levels, with a plan 4. $15,162,734 NDRRA Operational Revenue Borrowing to optimise depreciation particularly Capital Projects Council did not undertake any on Roads, Bridges and Drainage. Where did the Money come from in 2014-15 financial year? additional borrowing in 2014-15. 5. $1,629,610 Road & Bridges Infrastructure Grants Grants, subsidies, contributions & donations - 40% Cash Position Cash and cash equivalents reduced Rates, levies & charges - 38% in 2014-15 due to the spending of 6. $64,800 Mt Perry Sewerage the advanced Flood Restoration Cash position by year Infrastructure Grant Fees & charges - 3% monies. Balance as at 30 June $ Millions 7. $106,131 Various Building & Council’s operational income in 2014-15 2015 was $16.967 million. Interest received - 2% Other Infrastructure Grants was $37.731 million. Grant income 0 10000 20000 30000 40000 50000 Operating Position Sales revenue - 14% represents 40% of total income, with Operating Deficit of $(503,564) the remaining 60% of the operating 2008-09 15,550 Other income - 3% The negative operating position income classed as own sourced of $50,564 equates to -1.37% 2009-10 9,568 Statement of Financial Position income (owned sources income - of operating revenue. 2010-11 14,656 58% in 2014-15 & 41% in 2013-14). Net Result Surplus of $15,771,400 Purpose: shows the assets and 2011-12 16,655 liabilities which make up community • Total rates and charges levied (less Financial Sustainability 2012-13 34,536 equity as at 30 June 2014 discount) for 2014-15 was $13.922 Council has successfully achieved 2 of 2013-14 42,189 million. This equates to 38% of the 3 financial sustainability indicators council’s operating income; as set by the Government. Council’s 2014-15 16,967 long term financial sustainability Net Current Assets • Sales revenue comes from strategy is to have an operating surplus A detoration of Councils cash position enhance its cash position since 2009-10. contract work councils undertakes by 2020-2021. This is being achieved in 2014-15 is a direct result of finalising Council now aims to have a cash position of Council’s net current assets (that is on behalf of Main Roads ($4.1 through identifying cost efficiencies the 2010-11 and 2015 flood events. between $15 – 20 million as a benchmark. current assets less current liabilities) million) and other private through service level reviews and This level of funds is important for financial are $12.5 million for 2014-15. customers ($1.0 million). business process improvements. Overall council has taken significant sustainability – to provide perspective management action to manage costs and Councils monthly expenditure is $3.7 million 52 53
Measures of Financial Equity by year sustainability Purpose: assist in understanding $ Millions the financial performance and 0 200,000 400,000 600,000 800,000 1,000,000 position of council without reading through all the details contained 2008-09 850,660 within the Financial Statements. 2009-10 854,989
2010-11 870,693 Operating Surplus Ratio 2011-12 893,395
2012-13 841,988 • net result (excluding capital 2013-14 848,665 income) divided by total operating revenue (excluding 2014-15 853,171 capital items) FINANCIAL • TARGET - between 0% and 10% Between 2009-10 to current there has been a significant amount of • (1.37%) - Below target volatility around community equity. This volatility is solely a result of the flood and it’s impact on the value of Councils assets. Each flood sees a write off of the value of the assets to the extent that they are STATEMENTS damaged, then as they are repaired the asset increases in value. Asset Sustainability Ratio
• capital expenditure on the replacement of assets (renewals) divided by depreciatin expense • TARGET - greater than 90% • 261.56% - Above target due to extensive capital flood repairs
Net Financial Liability Ratio
• total liabilities less current assets divided by total operating revenue (excluding capital items) • TARGET - not greater than 60% • (26.08)% - Above target due to council’s low borrowings North Burnett Regional Council Financial Statements For the year ended 30 June 2015
Table of Contents Page Statement of Comprehensive Income 55 Statement of Financial Position 56 Statement of Changes in Equity 57 Statement of Cash Flows 58 Notes to the Financial Statements 59
1 Significant Accounting Policies 59 2 Analysis of Results by Functions 67 3 Revenue Analysis 69 4 Grants, Subsidies, Contributions and Donations 70 5 Gain/Loss on Disposal Non-Current Assets 70
6 Employee Benefits 71 7 Materials and Services 71 8 Finance Costs 71 9 Other Comprehensive Income 72 10 Cash and Cash Equivalents 72 11 Trade and Other Receivables 73 12 Property, Plant and Equipment 74 13 Fair Value Measurements 76 14 Trade and Other Payables 85 15 Borrowings 85 16 Provisions 86 17 Other Liabilities 86 18 Asset Revaluation Surplus 87 19 Commitments for Expenditure 87 20 Contingent Liabilities 88 21 Superannuation 89 22 Reconciliation of net result for the year of net cash inflow (outflow) from operating activities 90 23 Events after the reporting period 90 24 Financial Instruments 90 25 National Competition Policy 92 Management Certificate 93 Independent Auditor’s Report 94
54 55 56 57 58 59 60 61 62 63 64 65 66 67 68 69 70 71 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 80 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 98 99 100 101 102 103
Long Term Financial Sustainability Report
Council measures revenue and expenditure trends over time as a guide to future requirements and to assist in making decisions about the efficient allocation of future resources. Council ensures that its financial management strategy is prudent and that its long term financial forecast are achievable and show an improving financial positon statutory policies whilst also striving to meet the community’s current needs.
Council aims to operate within a set of conservative guide posts to ensure it is financially sustainable in the short, medium and long term. As part of our financial strategy, we have adopted three key financial performance indicators to guide our financial health. Throughout the financial year these indicators are calculated and reported on combined with a full suite of financial reports. Should there be any deviation outside these parameters, the executive leadership team and Council will be fully informed and may take corrective action as required.
The table above summaries how we performed against set targets for the three key financial performance indicators established in our financial strategy. In summary, Council achieved two of the financial targets, meet all financial commitments in the financial year and kept debt to conservative and manageable level. This was achieved while maintaining community services and making ongoing investment in community infrastructure.
PRINCIPLES:
General Policy While employee co‐operation and involvement are necessary prerequisites for the successful implementation of EEO strategies, the primary responsibility for implementing the strategies outlined in the General Policy rests with General Managers, Managers and Supervisors. It is imperative the EEO principles are Policy Title: Equal Employment Opportunity integrated with other forms of managerial and supervisory responsibility.
Policy No: 101 Council’s policy affirms that the North Burnett Regional Council is fully committed to Department: Human Resources ensuring the elimination of discriminatory practices within our workplace. Council Responsible Officer: Chief Executive Officer employees, contractors and members of the public are encouraged to consult with the CEO or Department Heads over any issues concerning employment. Adopted Date: General Meeting – 17/11/2015 Review Date: 30/06/2016 POLICY STATEMENT:
VERSION MEETING APPROVED MEETING DATE HISTORY The North Burnett Regional Council is committed to the implementation and 1 Policy & Strategy Meeting 02/08/2011 Bi‐Annual Review maintenance of Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) principles in all aspects of our 2 General Meeting 18/11/2014 Statutory Review operation. Council will ensure that all corporate policies and practices do not 3 General Meeting 17/11/2015 Statutory Review discriminate against any target group.
Authorities: Public Service Act 2008 (Qld) Council recognises that EEO contributes to operational efficiency by ensuring that Local Government Act 2009 (Qld) employees are recruited and promoted on the basis of merit and their individual Local Government Regulation 2012 (Qld) talents and capabilities. Council shall ensure that all employees have fair and equal access to training opportunities.
INTRODUCTION: All citizens are entitled to compete for positions within Council and no applicant shall be excluded on the basis of their: The North Burnett Regional Council is committed to the implementation of, and race; adherence to Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) principles in all aspects of our gender; operations. This General Policy outlines objectives and strategies that were developed marital and/or parental status; through a consultative process. age; religious or political beliefs; The overall objective of this General Policy is to identify, promote and implement or any other grounds as deemed unlawful by Anti‐Discrimination legislation. effective EEO strategies that will complement and enhance Council’s existing management practices. Council will endeavour to develop a staffing profile that reflects that of the community. The North Burnett Regional Council is committed to providing a work OBJECTIVES: environment for our employees which is free from unwanted harassment of any kind.
Through the implementation of this General Policy, the North Burnett Regional Council 1. Demographic Profile and Environmental Analysis aims to achieve the following objectives: Employment practices which are based on fairness, equity and merit and Specific strategies have been incorporated into this policy which are directed towards promote employee participation and productivity; achieving equitable employment participation rates which are reflective of our Fully utilise and develop the potential of every employee; community. These strategies are congruent with Council’s view that an organisation Increase employee moral and motivation by increasing staff confidence in which is representative of the community which it serves is in a strong position to Council’s human resource management practices and access to employment and understand and meet the needs of that community. training opportunities; Ensure that all Council policies and work practices are consistent with EEO The following tables demonstrate the progress that Council has made to date in principles; achieving employee participation rates are reflective of the community that it serves. 1 Achieve continuous improvement in the delivery of customer service through a workforce which understands and is responsive to customer needs. 1 http://www.abs.gov.au National Regional Profile: North Burnett (R) (Local Government Area) All figures are from 2010 except for the Estimated Resident Indigenous Population figures being from 2006. 104 105
Gender North Burnett Regional Council (NBRC) Community Male 66.8% 51% Female 33.2% 49% Statutory Policy
Age
(NBRC) Community 0 – 14 0% 19.9% 15 – 24 11.8% 10.2% Policy Title: Administrative Action Complaints 25 – 54 56.8% 36.1% Policy No: 116 55 – 64 27.1% 14.2% Policy Subject: Governance 65 + 4.3% 19.5% Directorate: Corporate Services Origin Department: Governance NBRC Community Non‐Indigenous 95.1% 93.9% Responsible Officer: Chief Executive Officer Estimated Resident Indigenous 4.9% 6.1% Authorised by: North Burnett Regional Council Population Adopted Date: General Meeting – 15/11/2011 RESPONSIBILITIES: Review Date: 15/11/2013
The responsibility for implementing and upholding the principles of EEO at the North Authorities: Local Government Act 2009 Burnett Regional Council rests with every General Manager, Manager and Supervisor. Local Government (Operations) Regulation 2010 All employees of the North Burnett Regional Council regardless of employment terms Local Government (Finance, Plans and Reporting) Regulation 2010 or conditions are responsible for adhering to EEO policies and guidelines. The following outlines the responsibilities of individual Officers and Committees within Council with regard to EEO. INTRODUCTION:
The EEO Officer is responsible for: In accordance with section 268 of the Local Government Act 2009, section 119 of the Ensuring that the EEO policy is implemented; Local Government (Operations) Regulation 2010, and section 115 of the Local Overseeing the content and direction of Council’s EEO programs; Government (Finance, Plans and Reporting) Regulation 2010 a Local Government must Participating in and contributing to workplace training; implement and maintain a process for resolving administrative action complaints. Assisting with the training of staff on EEO and related issues; Keeping up to date with legislative changes and requirements and disseminating Council is committed to ensuring that complaints are dealt with in a responsive, information accordingly; efficient, fair and economical way with due respect to confidentiality of the Assisting staff with issues concerning EEO. complainants.
General Managers, Managers and Supervisors are responsible for: Should a request for service and / or action not be resolved by Council, or the effected Raising awareness of EEO issues; person is dissatisfied by the decision or other action, an Administrative Action Identifying needs Complaint can be lodged by the effected person under the following policy. Preventing unlawful discrimination; Supporting consultative and referral processes; and, DEFINITIONS: Proactively implementing EEO policies and practices. Terms used in the complaints management process have the following meanings: Ultimate responsibility for each strategy outlined in this policy rests with the designated officer. The Chief Executive Officer has direct responsibility for the EEO “Administrative Action Complaint” is about an administrative action of Council made General Policy. However, the level of success achieved by the EEO Management by an affected person, including: Program and the strategies outlined in this policy will be dependant upon the involvement and commitment of ALL Council employees.
106 107 Administrative Action Complaints Policy 1 of 8 DEFINITIONS (continued): OBJECTIVES (continued): a) a decision, or failure to make a decision, including a failure to provide a written g) building the capacity of staff to effectively manage complaints in an environment statement of reasons for a decision; of continuous improvement; b) an act, or failure to do an act; h) complaints will be acknowledged and resolved in a timely manner; c) the formulation of a proposal or intention; i) Council will manage complaints confidentially and ensure that complainants do d) the making of a recommendation not suffer any form of reprisal for making a complaint; and j) Council will abide by the principles for natural justice / procedural fairness when “Effected Person” is a person who is apparently directly affected by an administrative dealing with complaints action of Council. SCOPE: “Complaints Management Process” is a process for resolving complaints about administrative actions of Council that: The complaints management process has been established for resolving complaints by affected persons about administrative actions of Council or Council officers. The a) covers all administrative action complaints made to Council; complaints management process does not apply to a complaint as follows: b) requires Council to quickly and efficiently respond to complaints in a fair and objective way; a) that could be made under Chapter 3, Part 1, Division 3, Section 38 of the Local c) includes the criteria considered when assessing whether to investigate a Government Act about competitive neutrality issues; complaint; b) about official misconduct that should be directed to the Crime and Misconduct d) requires Council to inform an affected person of Council’s decision about the Commission; complaint and the reasons for the decision, unless the complaint was made c) made under the Public Interest Disclosure Act 2010; anonymously. d) about conduct and performance of councillors as prescribed in Chapter 6, Part 2, Division 6, Section 177 of the Local Government Act 2009. “Natural Justice” or procedural fairness is giving someone who might be adversely affected by a decision a fair hearing prior to the decision being made. PRINCIPLES:
“Review” to undertake a second or repeated examination of a past event or decision, Council intends to provide a level of customer service that does not attract complaints, taking into consideration the facts and circumstances of such event or decision. however acknowledges the right of persons providing feedback, both positive and negative, on its services and/or to lodge a complaint about a decision or other action it “Council” is the North Burnett Regional Council. takes.
“Council Officer” includes a permanent, temporary, casual or contractor employed by Council is committed to providing adequate resources and trained officers to deal with Council. complaints and to record and analyse complaints data.
“InfoXpert” Council’s electronic document records management system. Council will endeavour to ensure that:
OBJECTIVES: a) anyone who is dissatisfied about a decision or other action can easily and simply lodge a complaint; The complaints management process is established with the following objectives: b) complainants are provided with information on the complaints management process and, if necessary, assistance to make their complaint; a) the fair, efficient and consistent treatment of complaints about decisions and c) each complaint is initially assessed in terms of its seriousness, safety other administrative actions of Council; implications, complexity and degree of urgency; b) a complaints management process that is easy to understand and is readily d) Council officers will receive complaints in a professional manner and welcome accessible to all; valid feedback as an opportunity for improvement of the Council’s administrative c) detection and rectification, where appropriate, of administrative errors; practices; d) identification of areas for improvement in Council’s administrative practices; e) complaints are resolved as quickly as possible, preferably on first contact if the e) increase in awareness of the complaints management process for Council’s staff complaint is straightforward; and the community; f) complainants are advised of their appeal rights at the relevant stages of the f) enhancement of the community’s confidence in the complaints management complaint management process; process and of the reputation of Council as being accountable and transparent;
Administrative Action Complaints Policy 2 of 1088 Administrative Action Complaints Policy 3 of 8 109 PRINCIPLES (continued): REMEDIES (continued): g) complainants will be provided with a written statement of outcomes, including More that one remedy may be applied in the particular case if the circumstances details of the reasons for the outcome at the relevant stages of the decision‐ justify that course of action. making process; h) people with particular needs are assisted – for example people who are in any IMPLEMENTATION OF REMEDY: way disadvantaged by intellectual or physical disability, education, language ability or any other impairment. Council, through the Chief Executive Officer or delegate, will take action as per the workflow structured in InfoXpert to implement any remedy made available to a RESPONSIBILITY: complainant and/or any revision of its policy, practice or procedure.
All Council Officers: COMPLAINTS MANAGEMENT SYSTEM: a) are required to observe the complaints management process; Council will maintain a Register of Administrative Action Complaints to ensure b) wherever appropriate, attempt to resolve a complaint before it is referred for complaints are recorded, including the decision and outcome. attention under the complaints management process. RELATED POLICIES OR PROCEDURES: CONFIDENTIALITY All Council policies and procedures must be taken into consideration when considering Parties to a complaint are responsible for ensuring confidentiality at all times, with or investigating a complaint under the complaints management process. respect to both verbal discussions and written documentation relating to the request. COMMUNICATION: The number of people involved in the resolution of a complaint, will be kept to an appropriate level. The number will also be limited to those with a genuine need to In order to publicise the complaints management process, Council will place this know, or need to be involved. A complainant will be required to provide some document on its website and will train new and existing staff on the complaints personal details including contact information. Anonymous complaints will not be management process. accepted. Statutory Policy 116 – Administrative Action Complaints is available on Council’s FEEDBACK website at www.northburnett.qld.gov.au or for inspection at Council Administration Offices. Complainants will be advised of outcome as soon as possible after a decision has been made. Any reasons for negative decisions must be outlined in a response and TAKING A COMPLAINT FURTHER: complainants must be advised of any available internal/external review options. If Council decides not to undertake a review of the action, Council will inform the REMEDIES: complainant that a complaint may be lodged with the Queensland Ombudsman or other relevant complaint entity (details below). Council through this policy has adopted a range of remedies for addressing administrative actions that it considers to be unfair or wrong. Remedies include, but It is also recognised that a complainant is also entitled to have a matter reviewed if are not limited to: they are still dissatisfied with the outcome of Council’s review process. a) an explanation for the action in question; Level 17, 53 Albert Street b) an admission of fault; Brisbane QLD 4000 c) an apology; d) revocation or amendment of the decision; GPO Box 3314 e) rectification, including repairing or replacing the matter in dispute; Brisbane QLD 4001 f) revision of relevant policy, procedure or practice; g) provision of technical advice; Telephone: (07) 3005 7000 h) reimbursement of costs incurred as a result of the action in question; Toll Free (Landlines only): 1800 068 908 i) financial compensation, including an ex‐gratia payment; Fax: (07) 3005 7067 j) waiver of debt; Email: [email protected]
Administrative Action Complaints Policy 4 of 8110 Administrative Action Complaints Policy 5 of 8111 Mailing Address: PO Box 390, Gayndah Qld 4625 Street Address: 34‐36 Capper Street, Gayndah Qld 4625 Telephone: 1300 696 272 OPERATIONAL FLOW FOR ADMINISTRATIVE ACTION COMPLAINTS: Facsimile: (07) 4161 1425 Email: [email protected] Web: northburnett.qld.gov.au ABN: 23 439 388 197
ADMINISTRATIVE ACTION COMPLAINT APPLICATION FORM
Contact Details
Name:
Address:
Postcode:
Telephone: Mobile:
Complaint Description
Details:
Signature: Date:
Privacy Notice: Any personal information collected by the North Burnett Regional Council is in accordance with section 268 of the Local Government Act 2009. Information received will only be used by authorised Council officers to investigate complaints and will not be disclosed to any third parties without prior consent unless required to by law. In some cases where complaints have escalated, this information may be disclosed to authorised State government agencies for the purpose of reviewing decisions.
7 Administrative Action Complaints Policy 6 of 8 112 113
OFFICE USE ONLY
Officers Details 115
Name:
Title:
Remedy Sought:
statutory
information
Signature: Date:
Reference No:
Administrative Action Complaints Policy 8 of 8 116 117
Councillors (s186) Legislative Requirement Compliance (a) for each councillor, the total remuneration, including superannuation contributions, paid to the councillor during the financial year; and Gross Super Mileage & Remunerations Contributions Inceidentals
Local Government Act 2009 Cr DW Waugh $96,329.53 $3,246.39 $841.67 Identifying beneficial enterprises (s41) Cr FO Whelan $55,475.07 $6,610.76 $386.01 A local government’s annual report for each financial year must contain a list of all the beneficial enterprises that the local government conducted during the Nil financial year. Cr PW Francis $47,996.86 $5,729.36 $252.80 (b) the expenses incurred by, and the facilities provided to each councillor Identifying significant business activities (s45) during the financial year under the local government’s expenses Cr PW Lobegeier $48,690.68 $5,729.36 $946.62 reimbursement policy; and A local government’s annual report for each financial year must- (a) contain a list of all the business activities that the local government conducted Refer to section: Financial Statements, Note 25 Cr JF Dowling $48,359.29 $5,729.36 $615.23 during the financial year; and Cr KW Wendt $47,744.06 - - (b) identify the business activities that are significant business activities; and Refer to section: Financial Statements, Note 25 (c) state whether or not the competitive neutrality principle was applied to the Cr WW Bowen $47,744.06 $5,729.36 - significant business activities, and if the principle was not applied, the reason No - Cost of implementation outweighs the potential benefit why it was not applied; and
(d) state whether any of the significant business activities were not conducted PAP General Special in the preceding financial year, ie whether there are any new significant No changes Standing Meetings Meetings business activities. Committee
Local Government Regulation 2012 - Division 3 ‘Annual Report’ Cr DW Waugh 7 10 1 Preparation of Annual Report (s182) Cr FO Whelan 10 12 2 Adopt Annual Report within one month after the QAO provides certification. (c) the number of local government meetings that each councillor attended Cr PW Francis 9 12 2 Annual Report placed on council website within two week after council has adopted it. during the financial year; and General Purpose Financial Statements (s183) Cr PW Lobegeier 10 12 2 The Annual Report for a financial year must contain:- Cr JF Dowling 10 12 2 (a) the general purpose financial statement for the financial year, audited by the auditor-general; and Cr KW Wendt 10 12 2 (b) the current-year financial sustainability statement for the financial year, Cr WW Bowen 10 12 2 audited by the auditor-general; and Refer to section: Financial Statements (c) the long term financial sustainability statement for the financial year; and (d) the total number of the following during the financial year- (d) the auditor-general’s audit reports about the general purpose financial statements and the current year sustainability statement. (i) orders and recommendations made under s180(2) or (4); and Nil (ii) orders made under s181; and Community Financial Report (s184) (e) each of the following during the financial year- The Annual Report must contain the community financial report for the Refer to section: Community Financial Report financial year. (i) the name of each councillor for whom an order or recommendation was made under s180 of the Act or and order was under s181 of the Act; Particular Resolutions (s185) (ii) a description of the misconduct or inappropriate conduct engaged in by Nil each of the councillors; The Annual Report for a financial year must contain:- (iii) a summary of the order or recommendation made for each councillor; Adopted at Policy and Planning Meeting - 02/04/2013, and (a) a copy of the resolutions made during the financial year under s250(1); and details in 2012/13 Annual Report. Has been reviewed and no changes required. (f) the number of each of the following during the financial year- (b) a list of any resolutions made during the financial year under s206(2). Nil (i) complaints about the conduct or performance of councillors for which no further action was taken under s176c(2) of the Act; (ii) complaints referred to the department’s chief executive under s176c(3) (a)(i) of the Act; (iii) complaints referred to the mayor under s176c(4)(a) of the Act; (iv) complaints referred to the department’s chief executive under s176c(4) Nil (a) of the Act; (v) complaints assessed by the chief executive officer as being about official misconduct; (vi) complaints heard by a regional conduct review panel; (vii) complaints heard by the tribunal; (viii) complaints to which s176c(6) of the Act applied. 118 119
(e) the number of invitations to change tenders under s228(7) during the Administrative Action Complaints (s187) Nil financial year; (1) The Annual Report for a financial year must contain- • Asbestos Register (a) a statement about the local government’s commitment to dealing fairly with • Local Law Register administrative action complaints; and • Election Gifts Register Refer to section: Statutory Policies • Significant Business Register (b) a statement about how the local governments has implemented its Administrative Action Complaints - Policy 116 • Delegations Register complaints management process, including an assessment of the local • Statement of Interest Register: Councillors government’s performance in resolving complaints under the process. • Statement of Interest Register: Senior Contract Staff (f) a list of the registers kept by the local government; (2) The Annual Report must also contain particulars of- • Asset Register • Gift Register (a) the number of the following during the financial year- • Beneficial Enterprises Register • Cost-Recovery Fees Register (i) administrative action complaints made to the local government; Nil • Contract with Lobbyists Register (ii) administrative action complaints resolved by the local government • Road Map Register Nil under the complaints management process; • Local Heritage Register (iii) administrative action complaints not resolved by the local government Type: Partial Water Relief Nil (g) a summary of all concessions for rates and charges granted by the local under the complaints management process; and Number of Properties: 19 government; Total Cost: $16,204.74 (b) the number of administrative action complaints under paragraph (a)(iii) that Nil were made in a previous financial year. Council established an Internal Audit Committee during 2012/13 financial Overseas Travel (s188) year. The Internal Audit Committee continues to meet on a regular basis and makes appropriate recommendations to assist Council in fulfilling its corporate (1) The Annual Report for a financial year must contain the following information about any overseas travel made by a councillor or local government employee governance role and oversight responsibilities in relation to accounting and in an official capacity during the financial year- reporting practices. (a) for a councillor - the name of the councillor; Nil Council’s Internal Audit Committee includes one external member independent (b) for a local government employee - the name of, and position held by the to Council and two Councillors. Chairman Mayor Cr D Waugh, Cr P Francis, Matthew Cook - Water & Wastewater Coordinator (h) the report on the internal audit for the financial year; local government employee; Councillor. The Internal Audit Committee is also attended by the Chief Executive Officer, Deputy CEO and Manager Finance and as required the (c) the destination of the overseas travel; New Zealand - North & South Island External Auditors. (d) the purpose of the overseas travel; LGAQ & qldwater ‘New Zealand Innovations Study Tour’ Council’s Internal Audit function will be carrying out the items listed in the (d) the cost of the overseas travel; Nil cost to council - Matthew’s prize for winning Water Operator of the Year 2015-16 audit plan with a strong focus on compliance with polices and legislation requirements, including Council’s current risk management (2) The Annual Report may also contain any other information about the Nil structure and the completion of a risk identification process. overseas travel the local government considers relevant. (i) a statement about the local government’s activities during the financial year Expenditure on Grants to Community Organisations (s189) Refer to General Policy: Equal Employment Opportunity to implement its plan for equal opportunity in employment; The Annual Report for a financial year must contain a summary of- (j) a summary of investigation notices given in the financial year under s49 for (a) the local government’s expenditure for the financial year on grants to Nil Refer to section: Community Grants & Donations competitive neutrality complaints; community organisations; and (k) the local government’s responses in the financial year on the QCA’s Nil (b) expenditure from each councillor’s discretionary fund, including- recommendations on any competitive neutrality complaints under s52(3). (i) the name of each community organisation to which an amount was (2) In this section - annual operations report, for a commercial business unit, means a document that contains the following information for the previous allocated from the fund; and Nil financial year- (ii) the amount and purpose of the allocation; (a) information that allows an informed assessment of the unit’s operations, Not applicable Other contents (s190) including a comparison with the unit’s annual performance plan; (1) The Annual Report for a financial year must contain the following information- (b) particulars of any changes made to the unit’s annual performance plan for Not applicable the previous financial year; 21-10-2014 Cr KS Wendt OAM BEM moved and Cr PW Francis seconded: that pursuant (c) particulars of the impact the changes had on the unit’s; (a) the chief executive officer’s assessment of the local government’s progress to the Local Government Act 2009 and section 165 (3) - Local Government towards implementing its 5 year corporate plan and annual operational plan. Regulation 2012, North Burnett Regional Council receives the annual review of (i) financial position; and the North Burnett Regional Council Corporate Plan 2013-2018 as a result of the (ii) operating surplus and deficit; and Not applicable review. Carried 6/0 (iii) prospects. (b) particulars of other issues relevant to making an informed assessment of (d) particulars of any directions the local government gave the unit. Not applicable Refer to section: Financial Statements the local government’s operations and performance in the financial year; (c) an annual operations report for each commercial business unit; Not applicable (d) details of any action taken for, and expenditure on, a service, facility or activity- (i) supplied by another local government under an agreement for conducting a joint government activity; and Not applicable (ii) for which the local government levied special rates or charges for the financial year; 120
201 Annual Report must detail remuneration (1) The Annual Report of a local government must state- (a) the total of all remuneration packages that are payable (in the year to which the annual report relates) to the senior management of the local government; and (b) the number of employees in senior management who are being paid each Package No. of senior band of remuneration. Range contract employees (2) The senior management of a local government, consists of the chief executive officer and all senior executive employees of the local government. 100,000-200,000 2
(3) Each band of remuneration is an increment of $100,000.00 200,000-300,000 1 (4) To remove any doubt, it is declared that nothing in this section requires the exact salary of any employee in senior management to be separately stated in the annual report.