2005-2006
CCoonntteennttss
Cowra – Your Council ...... 1 Fact File ...... 3 A Word from the Mayor ...... 1 General Manager’s Report...... 8 Principal Activities...... 10 Expenses & Payments ...... 32 Environmental Activities...... 40 Cultural Awareness ...... 56 Works Carried Out By Council ...... 59 Employment within Council ...... 60 Associated Organisations & Companies ...... 62 Other Information ...... 63 Freedom of Information Report ...... 66 Financial Statements ...... 67
CCoowwrraa –– YYoouurr CCoouunncciill
Your Council Members - Councillors
An ordinary Local Government election was conducted on 27th March 2004 and the following eleven (11) Councillors were elected to office:-
Cr Bruce Miller Cr Ruth Fagan MAYOR DEPUTY MAYOR
Cr Timothy Bush Cr Ian Brown
Cr Lisa Evans Cr Christine Norton
Cr Garry Starr Cr Jack Mallon
Cr Alan Thompson Cr Robert Watt
Cr Bill West
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Every year the elected members elect a Mayor and Deputy Mayor. The following Councillors were elected to these positions in September 2005 and held these positions during the term of this report:-
Mayor - Councillor Bruce Miller Deputy Mayor - Councillor Ruth Fagan
Councillors are residents and ratepayers and share the community’s concerns about the quality of life in the shire. They determine Council policy and are responsible for planning its future directions.
Whilst all Councillors attempt to make themselves available whenever possible, the Mayor has set aside time on Monday afternoons to discuss particular matters with individuals. Should you desire an appointment with the Mayor, please contact Council on (02) 6340 2013 to arrange an appointment.
Further, should you wish to raise an issue with all elected members, Council conducts an open forum at 5.00pm prior to each Corporate Committee, Operations Committee and Council Meetings to give the opportunity to members of the community to address Council.
Contacting Your Council
General Enquiries
Cowra Shire Council Administration Centre 116 Kendal Street Cowra Private Bag 342 Cowra 2794
Ph: (02) 6340 2000 Email: [email protected] www.cowra.nsw.gov.au
After hours phone service:
Council’s phone lines are open from 8.00am - 4.45pm Monday to Friday, after which a 24- hour emergency service is available by phoning 0419 219 231.
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FFaacctt FFiillee About Cowra
Cowra Shire is located in Central New South Wales, only two hours to the nation’s capital, four hours to central Sydney and a quick eight hours to Melbourne.
The Shire covers an area of 2,800 square kilometres comprising the main township of Cowra and has a number of small villages including:
Billimari Darby’s Falls Gooloogong Morongla Noonbinna Wattamondara Woodstock Wyangala
Population Growth
Shire Population 13,400 Cowra Town Population 9,500
Cowra Shire’s population is increasing, with an average annual growth rate over the last 30 years of just under 1%. The population growth for Cowra, based on past trends, is illustrated below:
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VViissiioonn Cowra to be the most attractive & rewarding area in all aspects of life in rural NSW.
MMiissssiioonn Foster community relations, actively lead, facilitate and ensure sustainable development and provide, maintain and extend Council services to improve the quality of life for residents throughout the shire.
MMoottttoo “Cowra Shire Council – Creating a Better Future”.
VVaalluueess We value:
Sustainability Financially viable and environmentally sustainable outcomes Local solutions to local problems A long term vision Honest, open, objective and accountable decision making Community involvement in decision making Continuous improvement Cost effective & commercially competitive service delivery
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Elected Representatives
COUNCIL
(Eleven Councillors including Mayor)
MAYOR
Professional Staff
General Manager’s Office Governance Liaison with Mayor & Councillors Corporate & Community Relations Tourism Citizenship New Business Enquiries Japanese Relationships
Environmental Corporate Services Cowra Operations Services Department Department Department • Development Control • Records Management • Parks, gardens & village • Land-Use Planning • Rates & Water Billing beautification • Compliance Inspections • Insurances • Noxious Weeds • Companion Animals • Accounts payable & • Water & Wastewater Regulation receivable • Council Facilities • Plumbing & Drainage • Customer Service including Caravan Park, Regulation & On-site • Financial Plans & Budget Cemeteries, Airport, Sewage Management • Human Resources Aquatic Centre, Materials • Zoning & Building • Community Projects Recycling Facility (MFR), Certificates • Cultural & Special Events Saleyards & Council • Health Regulation & Food • Civic Centre, Library & buildings Safety Inspections Art Gallery • RTA roadworks • Environmental Protection • Strategy & Growth • Engineering design & Regulation • Information Services • Construction & • Public Entertainment maintenance of roads & Licensing footpaths • State of the Environment • Depot Operations Reporting • Subdivision certification • Rural Addressing
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AA WWoorrdd ffrroomm tthhee MMaayyoorr It is with much pleasure that I have the opportunity to present the 2005/06 Annual Report to you.
In reading the report the full extent of Council’s involvement in the day to day activities of our community are highlighted and I hope appreciated.
From the moment we rise of a morning until we retire at night Council’s diversity of responsibilities affects our lives from roads to footpaths to water to sewer to sporting and cultural activities and our future needs to planning for civic activities and the list goes on…
The financial report fully documents the prudent management of Council’s funds; where they were raised and where they were spent. Some of the major expenses were the continued water mains replacement programs and the completion of the southern section water mains upgrade, the continued maintenance and upgrade of our shire roads with between $4.5-5 million being spent and the further development of the plans for a new sewerage treatment plant and the future major upgrade of the Civic Centre.
Much time and effort has been devoted to planning for our future needs as well as trying to keep pace with the ever changing face of State Planning Laws. Amendment 14 to our LEP (1990) generated much debate with regards to the use of our rural lands and although the final outcome was not universally accepted it has enabled us to concentrate on the development of a new LEP, in consultation with all of you which will reflect the changing landscape of our farming community while preserving our very precious farmland for future generations. This process will continue in stages through the remainder of 2006 and be completed I hope in the latter part of 2007.
The severe drought conditions have severely impacted on the economic activities of our farmers, their associated suppliers and service industries with an obvious flow-on effect to the broader community both economically and mentally.
Council’s focus in this area is twofold, firstly to endeavour to communicate better with all affected groups to understand the situation and how it is affecting individuals and to offer assistance if possible and, secondly to develop a strategy for an emergency water supply if Wyangala Dam continues to fall. To this end we have refurbished the old intake well beside the river and we continue to discuss with Central Tablelands Water the longer term proposal of upgrading the water mains from Woodstock to Cowra.
The proposed skatepark has also caused much debate and although the finances have been approved and the plan has been passed by Council there are still a number of outstanding conditions which have to be addressed before it can proceed.
Other planning matters which may be of interest are the development of a five year rolling plan for all of our roads. We’ve had two road summits to date and an interim report has been noted by Council with the plan to be finalised in March 2007. A similar approach is also intended for our future water needs.
Council and the community seem to be as active as ever in social, cultural and sporting events, some of the highlights for me have been: 2005/2006 ANNUAL REPORT
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- The 25th Anniversary of the Sportsperson of the Year Awards hosted by cricket legend, Mr Max Walker with local jockey Mathew Cahill scoring a rare 2nd win in this prestigious award;
- The continued success of the Cowra Wine Show which is now firmly entrenched in the top 3 or 4 shows in Australia;
- The Reading Bug Relay which came to town in October to encourage all of us to read and to read to our children and grandchildren;
- Our Australia Day celebrations where we welcomed Judy Nunn as our Ambassador and Bruce Cass was a worthy recipient as Cowra’s Citizen of the Year with Katherine Butterworth being awarded the Junior Citizen of the Year; Cowra/Grenfell Meals on Wheels were awarded the Community Group Category with Community Service Medals being awarded to Len Crowe and Trish Hussell and Merrilee Webster being a worthy recipient of the Dr Warren Whiley Award for her contribution to the Arts. Perhaps the highlight for me was the honour of bestowing Australian Citizenship on Lisa Brown as part of the celebrations.
- Another highlight on Australia Day was the announcement of long time Cowra resident Graeme Johnstone being awarded the Order of Australia for his services to Rotary and his community – well done Graeme !
- February saw long standing former Cowra Shire Councillor and Saleyards Committee member, George Noble, officially open the new sheep selling pens at our regional saleyards.
- Our Festival of International Understanding was again celebrated in March with the wonderful history of Poland being highlighted as our guest nation.
- April saw our Community Projects Officer, Kristy Bryant, travel to Joetsu City in Japan as the first participant in our staff exchange program which will be a key component of our friendship agreement with Joetsu City.
- Our Regional Art Gallery continues to attract a wide and varied program of exhibitions and of course our wonderful Eisteddfod continued to attract record entries.
- Our community’s sporting achievement have been well documented and reported on in the Cowra Guardian and as always our sports people have done us proud.
All in all a very busy and satisfying year with many challenges met but much more to do. I’m encouraged by the increased interest and involvement shown by our community and hope this continues and finally to my Deputy Ruth Fagan, my fellow councillors and all of Council’s staff, thank you for your support and congratulations on your achievements.
Cr Bruce Miller Mayor
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GGeenneerraall MMaannaaggeerr’’ss RReeppoorrtt
It is with great pleasure that I am able to provide my third full report as General Manager of the Cowra Council and as part of the annual reporting function, this year being the 2005/2006 financial year.
The Council continues to go from strength to strength in terms of its change management process, especially the major organisation restructure that commenced in October 2004. The thinning of senior management, thinning of duplicated positions, greater accountability, a more concise reporting regime, along with a continued Internal review of operations has produced an organisation that is becoming far more responsive to community needs as we continue to develop of customer service focus with the view to taking it to another level.
The corporate goal of becoming the most effective and efficient local government authority in NSW continues in earnest and we will continue to do whatever we have to, to achieve the goal. It is pleasing to see the progress to date that has been made in pursuit of this goal and I thank the staff for their dedication and support – it’s a team effort and you are only as strong as the weakest link and we are fast developing a very strong team.
The Cowra Shire Council continues to grow from strength to strength with development applications lodged in the 2005/2006 financial year exceeding the $25 million mark.
Council processed 323 development applications over the 2005/2006 financial year period at a value exceeding $25 million to the local economy.
From a planning perspective Cowra Council has seen some significant changes over the past 12 months and the processes that council are now employing as part of the Environmental Services directorate are kicking some significant goals. The recommendations from the Independent Review Panel hearing into the Cowra Council planning processes for the period 1998 to early 2004 have been fully implemented and the Department of Planning are kept fully abreast of this implementation. The changes to the DA process and the introduction of a pre lodgement process, a DA guide manual to assist applicants with submitting DA’s, draft section 94 & 94 A plans currently on public exhibition and draft exempt and complying development policies are but a few of the significant changes to process and procedure that has markedly improved council’s accountability and transparency.
Cowra Council is also well into its future planning and as far as environmental services goes, the Cowra Land Use Strategy is tracking well and ensuring that the Cowra Council will have sound economic data to support its future direction and growth.
Futures 30 has been another of Cowra Council’s successes and it invited 90 residents of Cowra representing the broad cross section of the community to chart its future direction
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for the next 30 years. From that 8 groups have been formed that will drive the strategic objectives of the community forward – it is only with unity and total community support that success will occur. Anyone who believes that the growth and wellbeing of a community is the sole responsibility of the local council is deluding themselves – we as a community must work hand in glove to achieve the future we want and this was the strategic focus of Futures 30 – Cowra’s future in your hands. Councils commitment to Futures 30 has seen it budget $100,000 in the 2006/07 financial year.
The Community Participation Project with the Central West Special Needs Centre continues as part of Council’s commitment to providing programs to benefit the local community. Community Participation offers support and care for the moderately to severely intellectually or physically disabled, who are unable to fulfil the requirements of full time work placement.
Council’s involvement in filmcentral.nsw through Centroc is providing an important injection into the local economy. The development and marketing group has developed relationships with industry professionals, particularly the NSW Film and Television office and is also providing support to the local film industry and successfully promoting central NSW as a location.
As we launch into the 2006/2007 financial year we have a number of exciting projects commencing and continuing that puts Cowra on the cusp of a golden decade.
The 30 year visionary plan designed to outline the future of Cowra, as stated above, continues; The land use strategy that will set the tone for ‘where’ we can grow continues; The ongoing review of all of Council’s planning documents are ensuing procedures and polices are in place to strategically grow our shire; The corporate branding exercise freshly brands Cowra Council as an employer of choice; The Guarantees of Service set a service benchmark in regards to service, and A Cowra Core Business Scorecard and continued customer surveying ensure we stay in touch with customer expectation
All of this is just a taste of what’s to come over the next 12 months. We will achieve our goals and in the process provide the best level of service to the community that we can.
If Council are not meeting your expectations or providing the levels of service that you want, you need to tell us – we are not mind readers and it is only through feedback that we can address the short comings you may experience. Mistakes are opportunities to improve and improve we shall but we need to be told – so if you need to, tell as many people as you feel necessary if you have a bad experience with council, but please ensure that at least one of those is us, that way we can fix the problem.
James Roncon General Manager
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PPrriinncciippaall AAccttiivviittiieess
Performance Comparison Management Plan - Section 428(2)(b)
The direction for the Council is set out annually in Council’s Management Plan to ensure that the needs and expectations of the community are met in a coordinated, cost effective and accountable manner.
The 2005 Management Plan is structured around Council’s Key Result Areas (KRA’s) in each department of Council. These KRA’s are the principal activities of Council over the 2006- 2009 three year period and a review is carried out each quarter regarding the progress of reaching these targets.
General Manager’s Office
Governance Objective: Cowra to be the most effective and efficient Local Government Authority in NSW
GOALS OUTCOMES The Futures 30 concept was presented to Council by 31st July 2005 and a decision to Present to council a strategic planning proceed was issued by Council in August report encompassing a suggested Manex 2005. Consultants Groupwork P/L has been approach (that is engaging all interest engaged to conduct the process inclusive of groups with council being included as an the future search conference held in March interest group to the plan) and process for 2006. The event was a great success and the implementation and such is presented to strategy paper is being developed utilising the council by 31st July 2005 for its outcomes of the conference. The Futures 30 consideration. Plan is expected to be adopted by Council on 24th July 2006.
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Goal Outcome Professional development opportunities in line with and in fact exceeding the stated goal have been made available to Councillors. A schedule of training as provided by the LGSA Training Unit for the period ending 31st December 2005 was disseminated to all Councillors in mid July 2005. A Code of Conduct training seminar, Financial Awareness seminar and Planning Workshops Elected representatives are made aware of were also made available to all Councillors professional development training as and and this goal is considered to be 100% when it becomes known, and each achieved. However other training options as Councillor be offered the opportunity to they arise will continue to be made available attend at least two (2) professional to Councillors. Commitment given by development training courses over the General Manager following General financial period 1st July 2005 to 30th June Manager’s performance review held 15 2006. November 2005 that a training audit for Councillors would be undertaken; request to Council via memo dated 28 November 2005 that each Councillor contribute to the General Manager their training needs and such to be done by 27 January 2006. As at 3 February 2006, two (2) responses were received. Outcome considered to have been achieved. Goal considered to be achieved for the 4th Councillors receive 95% of their business quarter with 100% provision of business papers within the prescribed timeframe. papers within the prescribed timeframe. Continued research ongoing and the best advice provided to Councillors as it is To ensure that elected representatives are known. It is often difficult to pre-empt what at all times aware of their legal obligations may arise from meeting to meeting so advice and that staff provide full, frank and may not always be readily available, but it will uncompromised advice. be sought and delivered as soon as practicable.
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Community Relations & Corporate Branding Objective: Cowra to be recognised for its strong community relations and competitive corporate brand
GOALS OUTCOMES Develop consistent branding for the whole Consistent branding is now occurring across of council and such to be completed by 30th the whole of the organisation. June 2006. Ensure the ongoing development of council’s website and that implementation of stage 2 Stage 2 of the local-e website development of the LGSA website development is has been completed. completed by 31st December 2005. Manex reviewed the plan in August 2005. All Review and implement corporate and actions have been undertaken in line with community relations strategies. and met the set performance targets. Plan reviewed and updated August 2005. All Review and implement waste minimisation actions have been undertaken in line with communication strategies. and met the set performance targets. Promote lifestyle opportunities incorporating C-Change registration is currently in trade C – change branding with this to be an mark opposition. ongoing promotion. Council’s representative chairs this Committee and is on the executive and Support CENTROC Film & Television marketing committees. This committee is project. currently exploring options to expand the membership region.
Tourism Objective: Council to work with the Cowra Tourism Corporation to ensure the highest quality level of facilities and services are provided to tourism businesses and tourists and Cowra is promoted as a great place to visit.
GOALS OUTCOMES Develop a reporting system with the Cowra Development of reporting system will Tourism Corporation to ensure that both continue to be refined. Council has been organisations receive value for money from receiving regular updates and as received allocated funding and such is completed by they are disseminated. 30th September 2005. Develop a Memorandum of Understanding The MOU has been completed and signed with the Cowra Tourism Corporation that with Cowra Tourism and a copy distributed clearly establishes the roles and to each councillor as part of the GM’s responsibilities of Cowra Tourism January 2006 updates to councillors. Corporation and councils expectations of it
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GOALS OUTCOMES and such be completed by 31st December 2005. As part of the Cowra Shire Council’s As the process of Futures 30 continues, Strategy and Growth Planning exercise, Cowra Tourism will (as will all identified Cowra Tourism is actively engaged as an stakeholders) be integrated into the process interest group in the process. Cowra Shire Council provide dollar for Funds provided to CTC for the joint funding dollar funding (up to the sum of $10,000) to of the Business Liaison Officer and prior to the Cowra Tourism Corporation to employ the advertising and appointment, a position a Business Liaison Officer. Prior to the description was produced and agreed to. advertising and appointment of this position, Since that time the BLO has produced and the parties will negotiate a service level we have agreed to, an action plan over the agreement to establish the required goals 12 months, with quarterly reports to Council and outcomes of the position. having been provided.
Corporate Services
Community Services Objective: Plan strategically for the provision and facilitation of appropriate community services and facilities that meet the identified needs of the people of Cowra Shire.
GOALS OUTCOMES Council’s Community Projects Officer is in constant contact with community groups and has assisted in the preparation of various Encourage and co-ordinate community grant reports, submissions and grant applications applications. eg Cowra Netball Association, joint application with Community Health, High School and Reconnect for “Hip Hop for Health”, U3A etc. Council is active in supporting a vast array of community groups including Meals on Wheels, Multicultural Reference Group, Cowra Interagency Group, Cowra Support local community groups and Section Community Health, Senior Citizens Inc. 355 Committees through provision of advice, Family History Group, Meals on Wheels and administrative support and training. the 355 committees. This involvements ranges from attendance at meetings, the provision of administrative assistance, financial management advice etc. etc.
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GOALS OUTCOMES Progress has been made on a number of objectives identified in the Plan including:
Mobilisation of Cowra Early Childhood Mobile Service existing toy library through the early childhood outreach services by way of a catalogue enabling village residents to order toys in advance for delivery by the mobile service. Lodgement of the Skate Park DA Involvement in the establishment of the inaugural Cowra Liquor Accord. Commenced investigation into the need for a Youth Development Officer Continuation of feasibility of Youth Centre by Working Party Promotion of Cowra Community Chest through the Council’s weekly column Discussions initiated in relation to the need for and provision of crisis Review and implement Community Social accommodation Plan 05/06 strategies. Seniors Week 2006 was very successful due to the program being a partnership between Council, Art Gallery, Seniors Association, U3A, Art Group, Meals on Wheels and Neighbour Aid. Community Projects Officer had significant input into the October 2005 and May 2006 reviews of the New Residents Kit with numerous additions being made to the “Our Community – a Directory” and the “Things to Do – Art Culture” sections Community Projects Officer made contact with Migrant Camp Reunion Committee to ensure they had involvement in the Rotary Europa Park project. Monthly bus services from Gooloogong to Cowra and Gooloogong to Orange are currently being trialled 2005/2006 ANNUAL REPORT
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GOALS OUTCOMES Council continues to be an active member of the PACT group Developed Small Cultural Grants Program for consideration by Council. Waste to Art Community Workshops and competition conducted. Weekly Community Events column in Cowra Guardian. Developed database of cultural icons, treasures and historical items in the Review and implement the Cowra Shire Shire. Cultural Plan 05/06 strategies. Commissioned with grant funding a study of the Pardey collection to determine future management and preservation of the collection. Study completed in April 2006. Cataloguing and rehousing to be undertaken as a community project Council continues to work in conjunction with the objectives of the Plan by developing and promoting the range of sporting and recreational activities in the community and working closely with sporting groups. New Residents Kit provides a comprehensive listing of sport and recreation organisations including the contact details for over 50 clubs in the shire Whilst Cowra maintains a good Review and implement the Cowra Shire relationship with NSW Sport and Sport and Recreation Plan 05/06 strategies. Recreation particularly in relation to grants there has been a notable decline in the contact the Department has with the local government area. This seems to be the result of a restructure of the Department which saw the Western Region take on a much wider catchment resulting in the stretching of staff. There appears to have been a shift away from grass roots sport and
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GOALS OUTCOMES recreation towards more elite sports persons Plans and quotes for stage 2 of river Park amenities was completed in October. Council acknowledges that completion of stage 1 is required before any further works are considered. Holman Oval amenities at lock up stage in April. Little Athletics to proceed with installation of roller door. Successful grant application for skate park grant of $79,000 from Department of Sport and Recreation Aquatic Centre survey conducted at completion of 05/06 season
The 2006 Festival featuring Poland as the guest nation was held in March with a return to Kendal Street for the parade and a Co-ordinate annual Festival of International compact carnival at River Park. All the Understanding. feedback from the event has been positive in terms of the site, content and management of the celebrations. Australia Day 2006 festivities went smoothly and was well supported by the community. Co-ordinate Australia Day activities. Review of Australia Day Awards commenced. Cr Evans and Director – Corporate Services attended meetings throughout the course of the year and focus group meetings Actively participate in the activities of conducted within the community to evaluate Central West Libraries, including regular the service provided by the library to the attendance at meetings. Cowra community. The results from this exercise will be keyed into the CWL Management Plan The Gallery continues to attract high quality exhibitions and numbers. The ranks of the Gallery Committee are healthy with a number of people joining to replace those Work with the Gallery management to that have left. The addition of the promote the facility and increase visitation. Administration Assistant has greatly assisted the administrative process and freed the Director to organise and promote the exhibitions to the wider community.
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GOALS OUTCOMES Successfully applied to the Department of Continue actions commenced to facilitate Sport and Recreation for grant funding. The the construction of the Cowra Skate Park. DA was submitted on 9th March. Investigations completed and project Continue investigations into the adopted by Council in the 06/07 refurbishment of the Cowra Civic Centre. Management Plan. Plans and quotes for stage 2 of river Park amenities was completed in October. Council acknowledges that completion of Continue investigations into the construction stage 1 is required before any further works of River Park amenities. are considered. Holman Oval amenities at
lock up stage in April. Little Athletics to proceed with installation of roller door. Revenue exceeded the estimate for the year. The Civic Centre Working Party has Work with Civic Centre management to developed plans for the proposed promote the facility. refurbishment. This refurbishment should increase the attraction of the facility to both visiting and local groups.
Customer Service Objective: Identify and respond to the service and communication needs of the greater Cowra community.
GOALS OUTCOMES Council has paid for the licensing of the new system however implementation will not Investigate and cost Authority Customer occur until next financial year. This decision Request System (CRS.) has been made due to the priority being given to the AIMS (assets) implementation and budgetary restrictions this year. All relevant staff were provided with in- Ensure all enquiries / complaints through the house training during May-June. Outstanding Customer Request System are dealt with requests are reviewed by management on a within the designated time frames. regular basis to ensure adherence to the adopted Service Level Guarantees
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Financial Services Objective: Provide timely, accurate and meaningful financial, budgetary and management reporting advice and support to the organisation.
GOALS OUTCOMES This task was not undertaken. It has been Develop a 5 year financial plan in conjunction included in the 06/07 Management Plan and with the preparation of the 06/07 budget. its completion is critical to achieving a stable financial future. The Authority Debt Recovery module was implemented during the year. A 1300 number has been established to Provide timely and accurate administration provide another payment avenue for and collection of rates and annual charges customers. and other debt based revenue. Staff continue to monitor overdue accounts with a view to reducing the outstanding rates ratio Undertake all financial statutory All departmental returns have been provided requirements within given timeframes. within the statutory time-frame.
Human Resources Objective: Attract and maintain a highly skilled, productive, committed and customer focused workforce and provide a safe work environment for all employees.
GOALS OUTCOMES A number of alternatives have been developed and are being held in abeyance pending the full review of all position Review Salary System by 30 June 2006. descriptions. This review has commenced and is expected to be completed over the first half of next year. Legal advice was sought on the status of the bonus system. This advice clears the way to Review Performance Appraisal System by 30 push forward with the review of the system. June 2006. Various options are to be considered in the first half of 06/07. The engagement of a Risk Management Officer has had a marked effect on the response to workplace injuries. Greater Develop and implement effective workers demands are being placed on managers and compensation procedures. supervisors to investigate and report on incidents and there has been a steady improvement in that area. Workers compensation claim costs are well down on
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GOALS OUTCOMES the previous year. Risk Management Officer has reviewed current documentation and identified areas requiring urgent attention. These are – Review Risk Management Policies and emergency evacuation procedures, asbestos Procedures. handling, hazardous substance handling, incident reporting procedures and contractor management. Council adopted the OH&S Policy Statement in March. Insurance cover has been affected for all Maintain adequate insurance cover. classes of insurance. This task is ongoing and being undertaken by Review and document claims management the Risk Management Officer and HR procedures. Manager. A training database has been developed identifying current individual skills. A training Update Corporate Training Plan. calendar has been developed with the assistance of the CENTROC training co- ordinator. An appointment has been made and the new Engage an OH&S/Risk Management Officer. officer commenced duties late in October.
Information Services Objective: Ensure the effective delivery of information services to the organisation
GOALS OUTCOMES The decision has been made to implement the Water Assets initially as a pilot. This in Implement Asset Management System. itself is a significant task and will continue into next year. The new server was purchased and installed in the 2nd quarter. The e-services platform is Implement Authority E-Services. required for the operation of the AIM system. The new version of the system will not be installed in 2005/2006 due to budgetary Implement Authority Customer Request constraints and the focus on the AIM and System. other systems. The licensing has however been purchased
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Strategy & Growth Objective: Strategically plan to encourage the future growth of the shire, its businesses and community.
GOALS OUTCOMES The Futures 30 conference was held in Commence development of a strategic plan March and was a resounding success. Work for the Shire in conjunction with relevant continued in the last quarter to produce the stakeholders. final Plan in consultation with the community. Council participated in Country Week in August and we continue to explore opportunities with the CENTROC group for promotion of the area as a lifestyle and business choice via avenues such as FilmCentral. Pursue increased recognition of the Cowra Council has partially funded the Business regions lifestyle and business opportunities. Liaison Officer’s position with Cowra Tourism and indications are that this position is having a positive effect on the local business community via numerous workshops/seminars and targeted promotional activities eg Spring into Cowra. Council has an existing Business Assistance Package to assist business development and employment generation. Council continues to work with developers who approach seeking advice or assistance. A further industry incentive payment was made to Windsor Farm Foods. Whilst budgeted for no claim was received from Sara Jane Continue strategies to attract and foster Furniture or NRS. business and development within the shire. The F30 Business and Industry Group has met on numerous occasions and commenced a review of the Council’s Business Assistance Package. Council called expressions of interest for “Yarrabilly” and part of the airport land due to strong potential for private investment in these areas.
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Cowra Operations
Cowra Works Objective: Ensure adequate infrastructure is developed and maintained to an adopted standard and is supported with the delivery of friendly and professional service.
GOALS OUTCOMES All water main dead ends that are believed Remove all Water Main Dead Ends located in to have a negative impact on water quality West Cowra. have been replaced. All modelling associated with the water Undertake designs and modelling and mains upgrade in Brisbane and Kendal establish costs to replace water lines from Streets has been completed and the Water Filtration Plant to Kendal Street. presentation to Council given. Undertake designs and modelling and All modelling associated with the water establish costs to replace water lines from mains upgrade in Brisbane and Kendal the Kendal Street / Brisbane Street Streets has been completed and intersection to Lachlan Street. presentation to Council given. Undertake designs and modelling and This is Stage 3 and will be considered at a establish costs to replace water lines from later date. It is the intention of the Dept to the Kendal Street / Fitzroy Avenue include this work in the draft 2006/2007 intersection to Taragala Street. budget. Completed Engage the Department of Commerce to Consultant has been appointed with the first prepare documentation for tendering as part presentation to Council given. The first draft of option 2 of the Cowra Sewerage Scheme of the REF report has been given to relevant Augmentation Strategy Study. government departments for comment. All works have been completed. An official Project Manage the upgrade of the southern opening is planned for the upgrade after a water lines. settling period of approx 6 weeks Project, manage and commission the Project has been completed and line Southern Water Line upgrade by November commissioned. 2005. Construction of Land Cell No. 3 located at Job is completed and the land cell is now in the Cowra Waste Facility. use. Reseals: Identify and prioritise roads that are required Identification and prioritisation has been to be resealed from the proposed list below completed with resealing to commence in and within budget limitations: February 2006 through to May 2006. Darby’s Falls Road MR576 5.14km to 5.33km Completed from Kendal Street Darby’s Falls Road MR576 5.56km to Completed 16.95km from Kendal Street Darby’s Falls Road MR576 7.17km to Completed 18.14km from Kendal Street
2005/2006 ANNUAL REPORT
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GOALS OUTCOMES Bellabulla Way Completed Kangarooby Road 6.21km to 6.30km from Completed King Street, Gooloogong Warrangong Road 0.3km to 1.97 km Completed Kangarooby Road 0.09km to 6.21km Completed Broula Road 2.1km to 8.8km Completed Mt McDondald Road 8.94km to 10.11km Completed Noonbinna Road 0km to 4.53 km Completed Pine Mt Road 16.19km to 18.11 km Completed Reg Hailstone Way 1.56km to 2.81km Completed Reg Hailstone Way 9.87km to 10.81km Completed Scrubby Rush Road 7.74km to 12.05km Completed Vernon Drive 0km to 1.13 km Completed Belubula Way 0km to 3.8 km Completed Belubula Way 15.71km to 18.09 km Completed Oakey Ck Rd Completed Milburn Ck Bridge Completed
Village Reseals: Identification and prioritisation has been Identify and prioritise roads that are required completed with resealing to commence in to be resealed from the proposed list below February 2006 through to March 2006. Hold and within budget limitations: has been due to the ability of the contractor
to commence work and the extended
period to complete Forbes Road project. MR56N shoulder at Gooloogong Forbes All works have been completed as per the Street, work schedule Bank Street to Stephen Street, Cowra Street Completed Bank Street to Stephen Street Completed Urban Reseals: Identify and prioritise roads that are required Identification and prioritisation has been to be resealed from the proposed list below completed with resealing to commence in and within budget limitations: February 2006 through to May 2006.
Streets Carry Over to 2006/2007 due to not Baronga Street from Darling Avenue to enough time to complete works because of Fitzroy Avenue Forbes Rd RTA job. Carry Over to 2006/2007 due to not Carleton Street from Darling Street to enough time to complete works because of Fitzroy Street Forbes Rd RTA job. Carry Over to 2006/2007 due to not College Drive from Fitzroy Street to Lynch enough time to complete works because of Street Forbes Rd RTA job. Darling Avenue from Whitby Street to Carry Over to 2006/2007 due to not Taragala Street enough time to complete works because of
2005/2006 ANNUAL REPORT
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GOALS OUTCOMES Forbes Rd RTA job. Carry Over to 2006/2007 due to not Fitzroy Street shoulders from Vaux Street to enough time to complete works because of Brougham Street Forbes Rd RTA job. Carry Over to 2006/2007 due to not Hassan Street from Hartley Street to Cul-de- enough time to complete works because of sac Forbes Rd RTA job. Carry Over to 2006/2007 due to not Kendal Street shoulders from Lynch Street to enough time to complete works because of Lachlan Street Forbes Rd RTA job. Carry Over to 2006/2007 due to not enough time to complete works because of Lachlan Street from Macassar Street to Pitt Forbes Rd RTA job. Street
Carry Over to 2006/2007 due to not Lachlan Street shoulders from Keswick Street enough time to complete works because of to Macassar Street Forbes Rd RTA job. Carry Over to 2006/2007 due to not Liverpool Street from Lachlan Street to enough time to complete works because of College Drive Forbes Rd RTA job. Carry Over to 2006/2007 due to not Lynch Street from Mid Western Highway to enough time to complete works because of Brickworks Forbes Rd RTA job. Carry Over to 2006/2007 due to not Redfern Street shoulders from Smith Street enough time to complete works because of to Dowell Street Forbes Rd RTA job. Carry Over to 2006/2007 due to not Sloane Street from Lynch Street to dead end enough time to complete works because of Forbes Rd RTA job. Taragala Street from Eulo Street to 275m Carry Over to 2006/2007 due to not south of Eulo Street enough time to complete works because of Forbes Rd RTA job. Carry Over to 2006/2007 due to not Vaux Street north shoulder from Lachlan enough time to complete works because of Street to Macquarie Street Forbes Rd RTA job. Carry Over to 2006/2007 due to not Weeroona Place from Bourke Street to Cul- enough time to complete works because of de-sac Forbes Rd RTA job. Carry Over to 2006/2007 due to not Yarmbildine Place from Brisbane Avenue to enough time to complete works because of Cul-de-sac Forbes Rd RTA job. Carry Over to 2006/2007 due to not Young Road shoulders from Olympic Park to enough time to complete works because of Waratah Street Forbes Rd RTA job.
2005/2006 ANNUAL REPORT
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GOALS OUTCOMES Boundary Rd – Young Rd to Fishburn St Completed Bulkhead Rd- Boorowa Rd to Fishburn St Completed Carabean Ave- Lachlan St to Car Pk Completed Fishburn St- Boundary Rd to Waratah St Completed Fitzroy Ave- Taragala St to Baronga Completed Ina Drive Completed Ina St Completed Lachlan St Shoulders-Keswick to Macassar Sts Completed Saje Court Completed Family Support Centre Car Park Completed Laneways Carry Over to 2006/2007 due to not Flint Lane from Smith Street to Redfern enough time to complete works because of Street Forbes Rd RTA job. Carry Over to 2006/2007 due to not Railway Lane from Brisbane Street to Darling enough time to complete works because of Street. Forbes Rd RTA job. Carry Over to 2006/2007 due to not enough time to complete works because of Car Parks Forbes Rd RTA job. Bellevue Hill/Scenic Drive Carry Over to 2006/2007 due to not enough time to complete works because of Forbes Rd RTA job. Carry Over to 2006/2007 due to not Caravan Park enough time to complete works because of Forbes Rd RTA job. Not yet commenced – Not going to be done due to no official agreement in place Target Car Park that Council maintains this area. This is currently under investigation. New Road Seals: To identify and prioritise local roads that Works program as adopted by council has require sealing to the value of $250,000. been completed.
Designs have commenced construction scheduled for March 2006. Materials have Bridges: been ordered. There has been a delay with Replace McInerney’s Bridge on Sutherland the Contract Pile Driver who cannot Road commence work until September 2006. Notification to the Dept has been given to extend this project until September 2006. Campbell Street Bridge. Completed
Rehabilitate/Reconstruct: Completed, this was ongoing throughout the Rehabilitate/Reconstruct various sealed roads year at various locations within the shire. as required.
2005/2006 ANNUAL REPORT
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GOALS OUTCOMES Works are scheduled to commence Feb 2006. These works are in accordance with Construct Rural Causeways and Culverts adopted works program and available resources. Not yet commenced due to lack of Sunnyside Road resources. May be considered as a carry over to 2006/2007. Not yet commenced due to lack of Broken Dam Road resources. May be considered as a carry over to 2006/2007. Not yet commenced due to lack of Two causeways on Reids Flat Road need resources. May be considered as a carry construction over to 2006/2007. Bullfrog Road Completed Not yet commenced due to lack of Kangaroo Flat Road resources. May be considered as a carry over to 2006/2007. Not yet commenced due to lack of Flannerys Road resources. May be considered as a carry over to 2006/2007. Not yet commenced due to lack of Sugarloaf Road resources. May be considered as a carry over to 2006/2007. Not yet commenced due to lack of Dorset Lane resources. May be considered as a carry over to 2006/2007. Not yet commenced due to lack of Warrawong Road resources. May be considered as a carry over to 2006/2007. Not yet commenced due to lack of Woods Flat Road resources. May be considered as a carry over to 2006/2007. Not yet commenced due to lack of George Russell Drive resources. May be considered as a carry over to 2006/2007. Works have commenced as detailed below. The roads not yet completed will not be completed this year 05/06 due to the lack of Gravel Resheeting 05/06 + carry over funding, and will be carried over for consideration as part of the 06/07 works program. Warrumba Road Not Completed lack of resources. Healeys Road Not Completed lack of resources. Lawarra Road Not Completed lack of resources. Waterview Road Not Completed lack of resources.
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GOALS OUTCOMES Racecourse Road Not Completed lack of resources. Nelligans Road Not Completed lack of resources. Back Creek Reserve Road from SH6 West to Completed Chiverton Road Binda Road from MR238 to Kangarooby Not Completed lack of resources. Road Bryants Road from Badgery Road to end Completed (southerly) Cassidys Lane from Warraderry Way to Not Completed lack of resources. Shire Boundary Francis Road from Quandong Road to end Not Completed lack of resources. (westerly) Gertys Road from Quartpot to end Not Completed lack of resources. Glenmore Lane from Walli Road to Binni Completed Creek Road Kellys Road from North Logan Road to end Completed Mountain View Road from Badgery Road to Completed Reids Flat Road Completed Mt Lewis Road from Bangaroo Road to
Troopers Road
Myalla Road (Nargong) from Nargong Road Completed to end (southerly) Nalah Park Place from Pine Mount Road to Completed end (northerly) Neila Road from Badgery Road to “Neila” Completed (Lachlan River) Nicholls Road from back Creek Road to end Not Completed lack of resources. (south easterly) Noyeau Lane from Noyeau Street Completed (Woodstock) to end (west) Noyeau Road from Noyeau Street Completed (Woodstock) to end (easterly) Completed O’Dwyers Road from Reids Flat Road (Neila
Creek) to end (easterly)
Quondong Road from Morongla Road to Not Completed lack of resources. Noonbinna Road Reedy Creek Road from Walli Road to Completed Belubula Way Rocky Bridge Road from Blayney (shire Not Completed lack of resources. Boundary) to Abercrombie (shire boundary) Roslyn Road from Reg Hailstone Way to end Completed (“Roslyn”)
2005/2006 ANNUAL REPORT
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GOALS OUTCOMES Rowlands Road from SH6 West to end Completed (westerly) Stone Brook Road Completed Sugarloaf Road Completed Swanponds Road Completed Tenandra Lane Completed Thompsons Road Not Completed lack of resources. Warrawong Road Not Completed lack of resources. Waterpoint Lane Not Completed lack of resources. Watervale Road Not Completed lack of resources. Werribee Road Completed Works have commenced and is ongoing RTA Works: with additional funding sought from the Perform SIMC maintenance on RTA Roads RTA. Perform SIC construction work on RTA Completed Roads Regional Roads - Ongoing with additional funds sought from Perform maintenance works and REPAIR the RTA programme works on regional roads Gravel Roads – Achieved with maintenance works are Grade and maintain to a satisfactory standard ongoing Sealed Roads - Achieved with maintenance works are Maintain to a satisfactory standard ongoing Rural Roads Drainage Maintenance – Maintain and improve roadside drainage to Achieved with maintenance works are reduce maintenance requirements from ongoing stormwater. Village Maintenance - Carry out maintenance to village streets as Achieved with maintenance works are required ongoing
Cowra Depot Operations Objective: Ensure a safe, modern and efficient workshop, store and compound that services the needs of Council’s works and services staff and all associated infrastructure.
GOALS OUTCOMES The purchase and implementation of a plant asset management system to allow for the effective and efficient management of all Currently systems are under review. council plant and equipment.
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GOALS OUTCOMES Undertake the replacement of the following plant: Plant 1 - Ford SX Territory Ghia Completed Plant 2 - Holden Wl Statesman Completed Plant 3 - Holden RA Rodeo Dual Cab Completed Plant 4 - Holden VZ Commodore Acclaim Completed Plant 5 - Ford BA Falcon BA Xt Wagon Completed Plant 6 - Holden VYII Commodore Sedan Completed Plant 7 - Holden VZ Commodore S Sedan Completed Plant 8 - Ford Ph Courier 4x4 Supercab Tray Completed Plant 9 - Honda Accord Sedan Completed Plant 12 - Ford BA Falcon RTV Tray Completed Plant 18 - Ford BA Falcon RTV Utility Completed Plant 19 - Toyota Hilux 4x4 Tray Completed Plant 23 - Subaru Forester XS Completed Plant 24 - Holden LX Rodeo Dual Cab Completed Utility Plant 27 - Holden LX Rodeo Dual Cab Completed Utility Plant 33 - Ford BA XT II Falcon Sedan Carry Over Plant 34 - Ford BA XT Falcon Sedan Carry Over Plant 38 - Holden VYII Commodore Completed Executive Sedan Plant 74 - Man Twin Steer Water Truck Completed Plant 89 - Holden VYII Commodore Acclaim
Sedan Plant 91 - Bomag BC671RB Landfill Completed Compactor Mower replacement Plant 181 - New Holland MC35 ride-on Completed mower Plant 185- John Deere 1145 ride-on Completed mower Purchase the following new plant:
Plant 77- Ford Transit Try Top (truck - Completed sewer operations)
2005/2006 ANNUAL REPORT
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Cowra Services Objective: Deliver safe, effective and efficient services that encourage the use and enjoyment of Cowra’s facilities.
GOALS OUTCOMES Commence the removal of all large dead trees throughout the Cowra township to the Completed values of $50,000. In association with the development of Council’s Strategy & Growth Plan, design a landscape master plan allowing for the refurbishment of Cowra’s CBD area that Pending the completion of the Strategy and best meets the passive and active demands of Growth Plan. existing and future local businesses and visitors and improves the visual amenity of the area. Project manage the construction and operation of Land Cell No. 3 located at the Completed Cowra Waste Facility.
Environmental Services
Environmental Planning Objective: Through careful planning and formulation of policy, manage the environment and use its resources to create sustainable development that meets community expectations.
GOALS OUTCOMES Finalise the Brief for the Shire Wide Land Use Strategy and commit resources to the Brief completed. commencement of this project. A draft Cowra Shire Local Profile has been Draft a Cowra Shire Local Profile and engage completed and is being presented to a with the State government, other adjoining Council workshop meeting on 30 August local government authorities and the 2006. After the workshop meeting it is community before finalising the Cowra Shire intended to exhibit the Cowra Shire Local Profile. Profile for public and government authority comment. Draft a Cowra Shire Issues Paper and engage It is intended to present a first draft Cowra with the State government, other adjoining Shire Issues Paper at the workshop meeting local government authorities and the on 30 August 2006. community before finalising the Cowra Shire
2005/2006 ANNUAL REPORT
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GOALS OUTCOMES Issues Paper. Finalise the Cowra and Gooloogong The study has been completed by SMEC. Floodplain Risk Management Study and Plan. Jillian Comber has been appointed as Cowra Shire Heritage Advisor and has commenced Establish a heritage advisory service and her role at Council on a temporary basis. A heritage grant scheme. Local Heritage Grant Scheme has been established. A comprehensive Review of Council’s Section 94 Contributions Plans has been completed. A specialist consultant has Develop a consolidated and comprehensive prepared new section 94 and 94A s94 Contributions Plan for Cowra Shire. Contributions Plans to apply to Cowra Shire. The draft plans are on public exhibition until 15 September 2006.
Development Control Objective: Deliver efficient and effective determinations of new development proposals and regulate building projects in accordance with government and industry standards.
GOALS OUTCOMES Ensure the DA and CC Register is readily DA and CC register is publicly available. A accessible and available to the public, link to Council’s DA register is being including on the Council web page. organised on the Council web page. Review and implement Council’s role as Review completed and procedures updated Principal Certifying Authority. to incorporate relevant changes. A Standard Conditions Manual has been completed and is referenced by assessment Review and redraft standard conditions. officers to ensure consistency in DA determinations wherever practical. Council has already adopted an Advertising and Notification Policy and this will remain in force until it is replaced. The current policy Develop new Advertising and Notification is considered to be a relatively effective tool Policy. and it is not a major priority that it be updated. At this stage it is not proposed to pursue this goal and that it be deferred for consideration in Shire Based DCP. New Exempt and Complying Development Control Plans have been drafted and have Develop new Exempt and Complying been endorsed by Council for purposes of Development Control Plan. drafting an LEP amendment to update exempt and complying development plans 2005/2006 ANNUAL REPORT
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GOALS OUTCOMES referred to in Cowra Local Environmental Plan 1990.
Regulation Compliance Objective: To provide a safe, healthy and attractive environment that protects the amenity of Shire residents and visitors GOALS OUTCOMES Develop a public awareness campaign in local media that informs the community of the Ongoing in local media responsibilities of owning companion animals. Develop a public awareness campaign in local media that informs the community of the Ongoing in local media. rights and obligations of owning or being attacked by a dangerous dog. Maintain a register of dangerous dogs. Register maintained. Develop a register for restricted breeds of Register maintained. dogs and their crosses. Maintain a register of seized and impounded Register maintained. animals. Maintain a register of patrolled streets and roads to control dogs and livestock and issue Register maintained. of infringement notices as required. A Procedures Manual for Parking Control, Develop a procedures manual relating to Companion Animals, Stock Control, and Ordinance and Ranger Functions. General Ordinance Regulation has been completed.
2005/2006 ANNUAL REPORT
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EExxppeennsseess && PPaayymmeennttss
Legal Proceedings - Section 428(2)(e)
A summary of Council incurred legal expenses amount to $192,000 during 2005/2006 and is detailed as follows:-
Proceeding Current Status Costs to Date (as at 30/6/06) Cranky Rock Road Action Group $ 39,544 Ongoing Good $ 56,467 Ongoing Garland $ 5,017 Ongoing Thompson $ 1,802 Ongoing Langfield $ 12,500 Matter Complete Mason $ 595 Matter Complete Simpson $ 587 Matter Complete Thoms $ 55 Matter Complete Raymond $ 617 Matter Complete Bloomfield $ 55 Matter Complete Johnson $ 1,100 Matter Complete Riters $ 1,100 Matter Complete Total $119,439.00 -
Rate and Charge Write-offs - Section 428(2)(r)
In accordance with Clause 12 of the 1993 Rates & Charges Regulation Council wrote-off the following rates or charges in the period 1/7/05 to 30/6/06.
Rates or Charges $ Pensioner rates abandoned – General Fund $186,394 Pensioner rates abandoned – Domestic Waste $113,053 Pensioner rates abandoned – Water Fund $112,617 Pensioner rates abandoned – Sewer Fund $ 77,583 TOTAL WRITE-OFFS 2005/2006 $489,647
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Section 356 Donations - Section 428(2)(l)
Under Section 356 of the 1993 Local Government Act, Council contributed money or in kind to the value of $87,241.00
Contracts over $100,000 - Section 428(2)(h)
A summary of Contracts awarded by the Council during the 2005/1006 year as a result of tender or other wise as set out below. These contracts exclude employments contracts of service and contracts less than $100,000.
Amount Name of Contractor Nature of Goods/Services Paid Provision of bituminous surfacing works within the Emoleum $505,237.50 Cowra Shire BT Equipment Landfill Compactor $ 265,000.00
Mayoral and Councillor Fees - Section 428(2)(f)
Council incurred the following expenses during the 2005-2006 financial year for Mayoral fees, Councillors fees, allowances and the payment of expenses:-
ITEM MONEY EXPENDED Councillor Fees $ 88,659.34 Mayoral Fee $ 17,595.00 Mayoral Vehicle $ 2837.00 Mayoral Expenses $ 2,150.40 Travelling Expenses $ 7,316.08 Delegate Expenses $ 1,142.24 Miscellaneous $ 555.85 Sustenance $ 3918.00 Total $ 124,173.91
2005/2006 ANNUAL REPORT
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Council’s Policy
Council’s Councillors – Payment of Fees & Expenses & Provision of Facilities to Councillors provides as follows:-
1. Objective:
1. To comply with the mandatory provisions of Sections 252, 253 and 254 of the Local Government Act, 1993.
2. To provide clear guidelines on what types of expenses Councillors are entitled to claim payment for from the Council.
3. To provide clear guidelines on which Council equipment may be used by Councillors and for the frequency with which equipment may be used and the process to be followed in using it.
4. To provide clear guidelines on what facilities are made available to the Mayor above and beyond the facilities made available to other Councillors.
5. To ensure that no Councillor suffers financial hardship by meeting their civic responsibilities and obligations.
2. LEGISLATION:
The following are the sections of the Local Government Act 1993, Chapter 9, Division 5, relating to fees, expenses and facilities which may be paid or provided to Councillors:
248. (1) A Council must pay each Councillor an annual fee.
(2) A Council may fix the annual fee, and if it does so, it must fix the annual fee in accordance with the appropriate determination of the Remuneration Tribunal.
(3) The annual fee so fixed must be the same for each Councillor.
(4) A Council that does not fix the annual fee must pay the appropriate minimum fee determined by the Remuneration Tribunal.
249. (1) A Council must pay the Mayor an annual fee.
(2) The annual fee must be paid in addition to the fee paid to the Mayor as a Councillor.
(3) A Council may fix the annual fee and, if it does so, it must fix the annual fee in accordance with the appropriate determination of the Remuneration Tribunal. 2005/2006 ANNUAL REPORT
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(4) A Council that does not fix the annual fee must pay the appropriate minimum fee as determined by the Remuneration Tribunal.
(5) A Council may pay the Deputy Mayor (if there is one) a fee determined by the Council for such time as the Deputy Mayor acts in the office of the Mayor. The amount of the fee so paid must be deducted from the Mayor’s annual fee.
250. Fees paid under this Division by a Council are payable monthly in arrears for each month (or part of a month) for which the Councillor holds office.
251. (1) A person is not, for the purposes of any Act, taken to be an employee of a Council and is not disqualified from holding civic office merely because the person is paid a fee under this Division.
(2) A fee paid under this Division does not constitute a salary for the purposes of any Act.
252. (1) A Council must adopt a policy concerning the payment of expenses incurred or to be incurred by, and the provision of facilities to, the Mayor, the Deputy Mayor (if there is one) and the other Councillors in relation to discharging the function of civic office.
(2) The policy may provide for fees payable under this Division to be reduced by an amount representing the private benefit to the Mayor or a Councillor of a facility provided by the Council to the Mayor or Councillor.
3. Annual fees:
1. Mayoral Annual Fee: (S.249)
The annual fee payable to the Mayor shall be equivalent to the maximum fee as recommended by the Local Government Remuneration Tribunal for the category of Council in which Cowra is placed.
Such fee shall be payable by equal monthly instalments payable in arrears.
2. Councillors Annual Fee: (S.248)
The annual fee payable to all Councillors shall be equivalent to the maximum fee as recommended by the Local Government Remuneration Tribunal for the category of Council in which Cowra is placed.
Such fee shall be payable by equal monthly instalments payable in arrears.
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4. Expenses:
1. Mayoral Annual Expenses:
(a) In addition to the Annual Fees payable under sections 248 and 249 the Mayor shall have access to an expense account, equivalent to the amount specified in the annual budget, to be drawn upon, subject to proper invoicing procedures, for items of benefit to the community which are incidental to execution of his/her official duties.
(b) Other expenses incurred by the Deputy Mayor and councillors, whilst representing the Mayor or Council, may be payable from this expense account, subject to the approval of the Mayor and General Manager.
2. Travelling Expenses:
Councillors shall be reimbursed for travel expenses incurred or to be incurred subject to the requirements that:-
(a) travel expenses relate to travel that is on Council business, including:
to and from council meetings;
to and from committee meetings of which the councillor is a member;
to and from meetings of external bodies to which the councillor is an approved delegate;
inspections within the area of the Council where such inspections have been arranged by a resolution of council;
to and from the periodical conferences and seminars of Local Government related organisations at which attendance has been approved by a resolution of Council or by mayoral approval;
(b) the travel is undertaken expediently, and by the shortest practicable route;
(c) claims must be made within three (3) months of incurring the expense;
(d) Where a Councillor is required, as a result of the unavailability of other transport, to utilise his/her own private vehicle in connection with approved Council business, he/she will be paid a rate per kilometre equivalent to the appropriate engine capacity rate of an employees vehicle as contained in the Local Government (State) Award;
(e) Wherever possible and appropriate a council vehicle will be made available for use by a councillor travelling outside the Cowra Shire boundary on council approved business.
2005/2006 ANNUAL REPORT
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5. Conferences and Seminars:
1. Councillors may be nominated to attend conferences, seminars and similar functions by a resolution of the Council or by Mayoral approval.
2. The Council will pay all normal registration costs charged by organisers, including the costs of related official luncheons, dinners and tours that are relevant to the interests of Council or assist Councillors to discharge the functions of their civic office.
3. The Council will normally pay registration fees, accommodation deposits and airline tickets directly in advance. Where this is not possible the councillor will be reimbursed for such costs upon submission of an expense claim form (see Appendix A).
4. Cost of vehicle hire and/or taxi fares that are reasonably incurred while attending conferences will be reimbursed by the Council.
5. Council will meet travelling, accommodation, sustenance and other expenses for partners who attend functions deemed to be of a nature that requires the Councillor to be accompanied. This clause shall be specifically authorised by Council or by determination of the Mayor or General Manager.
6. Insurance coverage:
Councillors are to receive the benefit of insurance cover for:
(a) personal injury for matters arising out of Councillor’s performance of civic duties or exercise of their functions under the Act but subject to any limitations set out in the policy of insurance that is, at the direction of Council, taken out; b) professional indemnity for matters arising out of Councillors' performance of civic duties or exercise of their functions as Councillors provided the performance or exercise of the relevant civic duty is, in the opinion of Council, in good faith or proper. But subject to any limitations or conditions set out in the policy of insurance that is, at the direction of Council, taken out; c) public liability for matters arising out of Councillor's performance of civic duties or exercise of their functions under the Act but subject to any limitations set out in the policy of insurance that is, at the direction of Council, taken out.
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7. Legal Expenses and Assistance:
1. Council will indemnify or reimburse the reasonable legal expenses of:
a) a Councillor defending an action arising from the performance, in good faith, of a function under the Local Government Act; or
b) a Councillor defending an action in defamation provided the statements complained of were made in good faith while exercising a function under the Act; or
c) a Councillor for proceedings before the Local Government Pecuniary Interest Tribunal, or an investigative body, provided the subject of the proceedings arises from the performance in good faith of a function under the Act and the Tribunal or investigative body makes a finding favourable to the Councillor.
2. Legal expenses incurred in relation to proceedings arising out of the performance by a Councillor of his or her functions under the Act should be distinguished from expenses incurred in relation to proceedings arising merely from something that a Councillor has done during his or her term of office.
8. Facilities for Mayor and Councillors:
1. Mayor:
The Mayor will be provided with:-
(a) a motor vehicle to be used primarily in the discharge of the functions of Civic Office and the performance of Council business with limited private use and associated cost being met by the Mayor.
The vehicle shall always remain the property of the Council.
(b) A telephone will be included with the vehicle for use on Council business and will remain the property of the Council. The Council will pay associated costs/rentals.
(c) Secretarial and administrative assistance relating to the discharge of his or her civic functions.
(d) Office equipment essential for the running of the Council office.
2. Councillors:
(a) Council shall provide secretarial support for Councillors for the following purposes:-
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Answering correspondence received from residents/ ratepayers in relation to the business of Council;
Replying to invitations to attend functions/gatherings received in their capacity as Councillor;
Communications to Council staff on official business;
Other assistance upon request subject to the General Manager’s approval.
(b) Council will provide, upon request, the following stationery to Councillors to be used only on Council business:-
Writing Pads Envelopes Business Cards Writing Pens Diary Postage for associated mailing of official correspondence.
(c) Council shall provide a telephone/facsimile machine at the residence of all Councillors for use on Council business and all associated installation and operating costs shall be paid by the Council. Such machines shall remain the property of the Council.
9. Meals and Beverage Expenses:
Council will provide food and beverage at Council and Committee meetings.
Council will provide food and beverage when hosting meetings/Civic Receptions.
10. Training:
Council will provide training for Councillors as is appropriate for the effective discharge of functions of Civic Office subject to annual budget limits.
11. Private benefit:
Council deems that there is no private benefit to Councillors in respect to the provision of facilities and payment of expenses contained in this policy.
2005/2006 ANNUAL REPORT
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EEnnvviirroonnmmeennttaall AAccttiivviittiieess
Bushfire Reduction Activities - Section 428(2)(i)(1)
Cowra Shire Council has limited control in relation to bush fire hazard reduction activities but is governed by the NSW Rural Fire Service Conobolas Zone. Details of the Conobolas Zone detailing their activities during 2005/2006 are as follows
Executive Overview
Fire Season 2005/06 proved to be very busy for volunteers and staff with a significant number of incidents reported and responded to across the Zone. Significant winter & spring rainfall provided some heavy grassland fuels into the summer which in turn created the a fire risk not seen for a number of years. The tactic of multiple tanker response and support equipment such as plant, aircraft and bulk water delivered early to each outbreak provided for rapid containment of most ignitions.
The Canobolas Zone became a State leader in the rapid deployment of aviation fire fighting resources and this proved to be a significant factor in community safety and volunteer satisfaction.
A program of Brigade Consultation meetings were initiated across the Zone with the two of three rounds of meetings held in this period. A total of twenty meetings were held with 200 members attending.
There has been significant progress towards the tanker fleet renewal with a major injection of newer replacement vehicles that saw fifteen new and refurbished tankers in action with our brigades.
Staff
Staffing remains at the same level of seven, incorporating The Zone Manager, Administration Officer, two Operations Officers, Learning and Development, two Community Safety Officers and a GIS support officer based at the Orange Zone Office.
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Programs
The programs initiated in 2005/2006 included:
Tanker Upgrading
The 2005/06 year saw the following brigades receive new or refurbished tankers.
COUNCIL BRIGADE TANKER Clifton Grove-Ophir Cat 2-Isuzu FSS Lockwood Cat 2-Isuzu FSS Gumble Cat 2-Isuzu FSS Mandagery Cat 2-Isuzu FSS Garra Cat 2-Isuzu FSS Cabonne Yeoval Cat 1-Isuzu FTS Cargo Cat 1-Isuzu FTS Nashdale Cat 1-Isuzu FTS Mullion Creek Cat 1-Isuzu FTS Orange Molong Rd Cat 1-Isuzu FTS Cumnock Cat 1-Isuzu FTS Cowra HQ Cat 1-Isuzu FTS Cowra Chaucer Cat 1-Isuzu FTS Woodstock Cat 1-Isuzu FTS Orange Spring Hill - Huntley Cat7- Mitsubishi
In addition the Isuzu tankers located at Clifton Grove-Ophir, Yeoval, Cargo, Lidster, Nashdale and Mullion Creek were relocated to Red Hill, Washpen, Bowan Park, Mogong, Nyrang Creek and Trajere respectively. In all there was 27 tanker movements across the Zone.
Our aim is to ensure that all brigade frontline tankers are diesel powered and offer the latest in crew protection hardware.
Incidents
A total of 441 Incidents were responded to by Canobolas Zone Brigades during 2005/06
Others – Good intent Council Fires MVA’s False Alarms & support other Totals agencies Blayney 35 8 13 56
Cabonne 126 22 48 196
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Others – Good intent Council Fires MVA’s False Alarms & support other Totals agencies Cowra 61 14 26 101
Orange 47 10 31 88
Totals 269 54 118 441
Due to the rapid deployment of multiple resources, including support equipment such as aircraft and heavy plant, all of the above incidents were contained early to a small area with the exception of two incidents at Canowindra and Gooloogong that each burnt some 250ha.
Aviation
One State Government Contract and one Federal Government Contract aircraft are based in Canobolas Zone at Cowra and Orange respectively.
Because of this resource availability and the support provided by Orange City Council a permanent airbase was established at Orange Airport that evolved into a major infrastructure advantage to our brigades and firefighters.
Members of the Orange Rural Fire Brigade undertook training in airbase operations and in so doing, provided a support capability to a great portion of Region West and the western portions of Region East. State Operations also provided support to the Orange Airbase by rostering trained Air Attack and Air Observer specialists on a daily basis for the entire summer period.
The Zone began planning towards strategically located airstrips across the Zone that will enhance the aerial fire fighting effort into the future by providing reserves of water, foam and retardant ready for each summers Bush Fire Danger Period and assist us in managing the quick turnaround of aircraft deployed to localised fire fighting.
Brigade Stations
An aim of the Rural Fire Service is to provide safe housing for fire fighting resources across the Zone. In many areas Rural Fire Stations already exist and these vary in size and facilities, however, there are many brigades without such facilities and the Zone aims to progressively make available fire Stations for those communities that demonstrate a need.
This year has seen the completion of new Fire Stations on the Mitchell Highway for the Orange Molong Road Brigade and in Barry for the Barry-Hobbys Yards Rural Fire Brigade.
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Community Safety (Hazard Reductions)
The hazard reduction component of Rural Fire Service activities in now undertaken expressly by the Canobolas Zone on behalf of the Councils and entails three separate areas
Issue of Fire Permits Issue of Hazard Reduction Certificates Management of Hazard Complaints Advice on Compliance to “Planning for Bushfire Protection” in regard to Development Applications.
Since 1 July 2005 and up to 30 June 2006 the Community Safety Staff of Canobolas Zone carried out the following works.
Blayney Cabonne Cowra Orange Development Applications 0 13 2 1 79BA / 100B Permits Section 87 & 33 355 377 42 88 Hazard Reduction 68 26 0 269 Complaints
Hazard Reduction
A major initiative during this reporting period was to implement a significant amount of Hazard Reduction burning in areas of high risk identified through community consultation during the Canobolas Zone Bushfire Management Project.
Some 6,900 Ha of State Forest, National Park, Crown and Private lands have been treated since the end of March 2005, principally in the Goobang, Conimbla and Nangar National Park areas. Additionally in excess of 1,100 kilometres of lineal mechanical works have been treated across all land tenures to provide firebreaks, fire trails or asset protection zones.
Maintenance
Our Councils are responsible for the fire fighting fleet. All heavy and light vehicles were inspected to the RTA requirements and Council engineering staff assisted in compliance.
This year was the second year where the annual roadworthy inspection system was carried out by Council inspectors resulting in a considerable cost saving to the maintenance budget.
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Learning and Development
To assist in the co-ordination, organising and record keeping of training activities, the Zone now has an online database that is linked statewide. The system (Fire Zone Train) will store the records required for certification as a registered training organisation. This will enable transfer of records with the volunteers if they locate to another district.
The following training has been conducted in and out of the Zone’s area:
GPS Workshop Aviation Operations Air Observer Air Attack Supervisor Rural Fire Driving Bush Firefighter Village Firefighter Advanced Firefighter Crew Leader Senior First Aid Traffic Control Operator Firezone Train 1.5 Business Management Breathing Apparatus Operator Incident Management Workshop Incident Management Exercise
State of Environment Report - Section 428(2) (c)
1. Overview
In 2004 Cowra Shire Council prepared a comprehensive State of the Environment Report for the whole of the Cowra Shire. In 2005 this report was reviewed and updated. In 2006 Cowra Shire Council prepared a new comprehensive State of the Environment Report relating to Cowra Shire.
Based on the latest State of the Environment Report, the following provides a “snapshot” of Cowra Shire as well as the eight environment sectors of land, air, water, biodiversity, waste, noise, Aboriginal heritage and non-Aboriginal heritage.
For more detailed reporting, refer to Cowra Shire State of the Environment Report 2006.
Cowra Shire Council is also currently preparing a Shire Wide Land-use Strategy that will also investigate regional and local environmental planning issues considered important to the future planning and development of the shire for the next 25 years.
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2. Introduction
2.1 Cowra Shire Profile:
Cowra Shire is located in Central New South Wales. It forms part of a larger ‘Western NSW’ region, which extends from the Great Dividing Range in the east across to the South Australian border and covers more than half of the state. The Shire is located in the fertile Lachlan Valley and covers an area of approximately 2,810km2 and accommodates a growing resident population 13,260 people.
The major urban centre in the Shire is the Cowra township which is the heart of the region; having a long established centre since its early settlement as a river crossing in 1849 to facilitate cattle-grazing and gold mining activity in the area. There are also a number of smaller villages in the Shire, including Billimari, Darbys Falls, Gooloogong; Morongla, Noonbinna, Wattamondara,, Woodstock, and Wyangala. The history of these settlements is varied but originates from early mining and agricultural activity of the late 1800s.
Regional irrigation is associated with the Lachlan River at Cowra, Forbes and Condobolin and Cudgegong River at Mudgee. The Macquarie River is also part of the Central West. Manufacturing and agriculture form the backbone of the region's economy. Other major industries are mining, food processing, viticulture, tourism and retail.
As of the 2001 Census, major employment industries in Cowra Shire include agriculture, retail trade; manufacturing, transport and storage (MTS); and community services and government. Tourism is also a key industry for Cowra in terms of investment, economic development and opportunity.
West Region of New South Wales.
Distances from Cowra to major centres (km) Sydney 310 Adelaide 1127 Melbourne 650 Canberra 183
The shire has a total area of 2810.14 square kilometres.
2.2 Topography:
The Shire consists of large distinctive low-lying areas adjacent to the Lachlan River, which merge into rolling hill country and then to steeper areas in the east. Cowra township is built around Belleview Hill where the gradient averages around 7-15%, peaking at 40% and dropping to 3-6% further away from the hill.
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2.3 Climate:
Cowra enjoys relatively stable temperatures throughout the year, making it ideal for agriculture and other farming activities. The rainfall is fairly well distributed throughout the year with slight increases during the summer months. The average annual rainfall across the 3 recording stations in the Cowra LGA is 619.47mm, fairly well distributed throughout the year. Highest rainfalls, averaging 62.8mm across all 3 stations, fall during January.
Cowra Shire generally exists in a water deficit, where the amount of evaporation exceeds the amount of rainfall. In winter months the two figures are approximately similar. Currently Cowra is experiencing drought conditions, as is 62.5% of NSW. There was an improvement in conditions in the latter part of 2005, however, poor autumn rainfalls in 2006 have resulted in the area once again being drought declared.
Upstream of Cowra temperatures vary from an average winter temperature of 0o to an average summer maximum of 35 o. Frost occurs over the entire Lachlan valley during the cooler months of the year and in the higher reaches of the catchment severe frosts occur from April through to October. In the lower areas frosts occur between May and September. Average temperature in July is 8 o, and in February 23 o. Winter temperatures can drop to –3 o, while temperatures in the mid 30s are not uncommon in summer.
There are on average 1.3 hail days per year.
Cowra is fortunate to have good air quality, with the three regulated sites across the Shire returning consistently low rankings on air-borne emissions.
2.4 River Systems:
Cowra is included in the Lachlan Catchment. The Lachlan catchment covers an area of 84,700 km2 extending from the western boundary of the Great Dividing Range west to the Riverine Plains. The area produces approximately 14% of NSW agricultural production.
There are three waterways that merge and flow through and around Cowra: Binni Creek, Waugoola Creek and the Lachlan River. On the western and southern sides of the township is the Lachlan River and on the eastern side is Binni Creek. There are three catchments yielding a total area of 1158 hectares. The town catchment is approximately 729 hectares, and the slope is enough to cause rapid drainage into either the Lachlan River or Waugoola Creek. This rapid drainage has a detrimental effect on water quality immediately downstream of the town.
2.5 Geology and Soils:
The east of the Shire is characterised by rich volcanic soils of shallow stony loams with granite outcrops. The topography of the area makes irrigation unsuitable and the land is mostly used for grazing and some fodder crops. The topography around Cowra itself is
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typified by low-lying areas adjacent to the Lachlan River which merge into rolling hills, with steeper areas in the east. The ranges of the Conimbla National Park ie approximately 470m above the surrounding plain and are conspicuous landmarks from surrounding areas (NPWS, 1997).
Ancient fractured crystalline rocks formed from sedimentary deposition, volcanic activity and movement of the earth’s crust underlie the Lachlan catchment. Silurian and Devonian1 sediments run north south through the district. The main rock types are slate, tiffs, cherts, limestones, occasional quartsites and conglomerates. On the eastern boundary are sedimentary rocks from the Ordovician period2, mostly fine-grained sandstone and quartzites. The eastern half of the Shire is characterised by rich volcanic soils with granite outcrops.
In the east of the Shire the soils are shallow stony loams and well structured red brown soils on the steeper slopes, and yellow and red texture contrast on flatter areas. Red clay loams occur on volcanic rocks.
Along the Lachlan River and Koorawatha Creek are large areas of alluvium and high quality silica deposits. It is in these areas that major crop and vegetable growing is carried out.
2.6 Tourism:
Cowra’s primary appeal to tourists is as a country area which provides a good balance between rural living and the “larger town” services most people enjoy. Tourism strengths are the themes that link the major attractions in the Shire. Furthermore, a high level of creativity and pride is evident in Cowra’s many attractions. Key themes are Cowra’s unique role in war history; international understanding and peace; local produce and wine tasting; and outdoor recreation.
Cowra has a rich and diverse history with links to national and international events to an extent that few other rural districts can match. The history of the World War II Prisoner of War (P.O.W.) Camp on Cowra township’s outskirts is the basis of several attractions and events which have broad appeal. Cowra’s wider history is explored in various museums and in the Cowra Heritage Walk.
Linked to Cowra’s historic P.O.W. role and its subsequent role in the introduction of migrants to Australia are the inter-cultural collaborations displayed most prominently in the Japanese Garden & Cultural Centre. Cowra’s unique contribution to world peace and understanding was recognised internationally by the awarding of Australia’s World Peace Bell to the town. Cowra celebrates its Japanese connections with the annual Cherry Blossom Festival.
1 From the Palaeozoic era – one of the four main divisions of geological time, from about 570 million to 245 million years ago. The era includes the Cambrian, Ordovician, Silurian, Devonian, Carboniferous, and Permian periods. 2 The Ordovician Period is the Second division of the Palaeozoic era of the geological time scale, from about 510 million to 439 million years ago. During this time, the supercontinent of Gondwanaland encompassed South America, Antarctica, Africa, India and Australia. 2005/2006 ANNUAL REPORT
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Viticulture has emerged as a major industry in Cowra and the tourism potential of these wine producers has been enthusiastically harnessed, with over a dozen cellar doors selling direct to tourists.
Cowra township provides attractive natural parks in Bellevue Hill Fauna Reserve and the Japanese Garden and has access appeal to the adjoining Lachlan River. Beyond the main township, Wyangala Waters State Park is the setting for water-based activities and associated camping and holidaying. Conimbla National Park is suitable for bushwalking, picnicking and other recreation.
2.7 Cowra Shire Council:
The Cowra Shire Council came into existence on 1 January 1981 following the amalgamation of the Cowra Municipal Council and the Waugoola Shire Council. The former Municipal Council had been created in 1888 at the Cowra Court House, while the Waugoola Shire had been created in 1906.
Cowra Shire consisted of eleven Councillors headed by the Mayor Councillor Bruce Miller and Deputy Mayor Councillor Ruth Fagan. Council meets on the fourth Monday of every month.
Supporting the Council are around 150 (FTE)3 permanent staff under the direction of the General Manager, Mr James Roncon. Council also occasionally engages a small number of contractors, temporary staff and volunteer workers.
2.8 The Cowra Community:
Cowra is a growing Shire of over 13,262 persons. Cowra’s overall population growth is one of the few in inland NSW that is experiencing positive growth. In the context of the 109 inland NSW Shires, Cowra Shire is not one of the 63% of the Shires that are forecast to experience marginal to significant population decline.
In summary, the Cowra Shire: -
Experienced steady positive growth for the period 1991 to 2001, which is expected to continue to 2031. Has an ageing population reflecting national trends. At the 2001 Census, the dominant age groups that resided in the shire were the middle-aged (40-59 years), and elderly (60 years and over). The elderly are anticipated to increase by approximately 80% for the 30-year-period of 2001 to 2031. By 2031, persons aged 60+ are projected to account for almost 40% of the resident population in the shire, making them the highest represented age group.
3 FTE = full time equivalent. 2005/2006 ANNUAL REPORT
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Has a generally even ratio of females to males, which is in contrast to 1991 data, when females outnumbered males significantly. Has a very low proportion of residents born outside Australia; averaging about 6% for the last three census years. This is consistent with trends for regional areas of NSW. Has a significantly high Indigenous population growth rate, particularly when compared to the Shire’s total population growth rate. This trend is also experienced at the state and national level. The lowest age group represented within this group are the elderly, which is reflective of the fact that in general, Indigenous people have a shorter life expectancy than non-Indigenous people. Comprises mostly couples with children. This group has been the dominant types of family in the shire for the last three census periods. Is forecast to have continued growth in total dwelling stock and occupied private dwellings to the year 2031. Whilst occupancy rates historically fell from 89% in 1991 to 87% in 2001, it is anticipated to grow by 0.5 percentage points to the 2031, bringing it to 90%.
In absolute terms, the overall Shire population is estimated to significantly increase by 3,129 persons for the period 2001 to 2031 (refer table below). The estimated resident population (ERP) is anticipated to increase steadily in the range of 3.4 to 3.8% over each projected 5- year period to 2031.
Cowra Shire : Historic & Projected Estimated Resident Population (Erp)
Census Year No. Persons 1991 12,377 Historic 1996 12,430 2001 13,081 2006 13,530 2011 13,980 2016 14,500 Projected 2021 15,040 2026 15,620 2031 16,210
Source: Derived from ABS, Census of Population and Housing, 2001, 1996 & 1991.
3. Ecologically Sustainable Development
Central to the environmental reporting process is the concept of Ecologically Sustainable Development (ESD). This is a broad concept, which gained acceptance at all levels of Australian Government in 1992 following a national consultative process. At the time ESD was defined as “a pattern of development that improves the total quality of life, both now and in the future, in a way that maintains the ecological processes on which life depends.”
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The Councillors and staff of the Cowra Shire Council have a statutory obligation and role in the promotion of ESD throughout all Council activities. The Local Government Act 1993 requires Council to be well informed about the environmental circumstances of its area and to apply the principles of ESD in a fully integrated way through the Councils strategic management cycle of direction, action and accountability.
This means that wherever possible ESD principles should feature in the planning process, should become part of the everyday activities of staff, and should be part of the assessment process for managers. ESD principles should be stated in specific policies, and not just those related to environmental issues. For example Council’s Housing strategy should explicitly state a position in relation to ESD principles and explain how a particular development is consistent with sustainability.
4. Six Principles For Physical Sustainability
After over a decade of introduction and implementation of ESD into nationwide legislation the use of the concept has evolved. There appears to be a community focus on “sustainability” rather than on ESD which is explored below:
4.1 Stabilise human population, number and age structure:
This recognises that the increasing human population is the major obstruction to the creation of sustainable communities, and that large population surges such as “baby boomers” or “Generation Xers” work against a stable and sustainable population.
4.2 Constrain the flows of grand elements:
This recognises that human now have the ability to cause major shifts in the storage of major elements such as carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, and sulphur. In Australia we could also add salt and water as substances that we have caused the movement of, in some cases to our detriment. This principle suggests that reducing the flow of these movements would be consistent with a sustainable community.
4.3 Base Society and the Economy on “Flows” Rather Than “Stocks”:
An example that illustrated this principle would be a move towards renewable energy supplies, such as wind farming or solar power, and away from non-renewable energy such as coal and oil. The emphasis is on not “using up” a supply of fuel, but of tapping in to an existing and virtually inexhaustible supply.
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4.4 Shorten supply chains:
This principle recognises the loss of energy involved in long supply chains. For example most of the fruit and vegetables grown in rural NSW are transported to Sydney for sale and subsequent distribution. While much of this produce is then consumed in Sydney, a substantial portion is then transported back to rural NSW for consumption.
4.5 Engineer Society for Durability and Resilience:
This principle suggests that we should focus planning on products that last rather than on products with some built in obsolescence. It argues against products that change with fashion and which require an update that is mostly cosmetic.
4.6 A New Economics Where Taxes “Tell The Truth”:
This principle recognises that our present way of measuring the economy is flawed and that more appropriate methods should be explored. For example our society measures and compares gross domestic product (GDP) on the assumption that the higher this is the better. This suggests that more economic activity is better for the community, an assumption that has significant drawbacks. For example a significant loss of time and energy occurs when cars crash and people are injured, and by most measures this is regarded as detrimental. However under our system, the accompanying hospitalisation, crash repair, or funerals represent expenditure and therefore an increase in GDP.
5. Eight Environmental Sectors
The following provides a “snapshot” of the eight environment sectors of land, air, water, biodiversity, waste, noise, Aboriginal heritage and non-Aboriginal heritage. For more detailed investigation, refer to Cowra Shire State of the Environment Report 2006.
5.1 Land:
The majority of the landscape surrounding Cowra is non-calcic brown soils with alluvial soils along the Lachlan and a strip of red podsolic soil from the north.
Extensive clearing of land, mainly for agricultural purposes, has resulted in significant land degradation issues across the Cowra LGA and has lead to the Shire being one of the worst affected areas of NSW.
Salinity impacts on the natural and built environment through the accumulation of salt in soil and groundwater. Dryland salinity it is often exacerbated by human activities that alter the natural balance of the water cycle in the landscape (known as ‘induced’ salinity). Salinity of all types has a widespread impact on farming and decreased agricultural production, irrigation, 2005/2006 ANNUAL REPORT
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landscape degradation, decline in ecosystem and wetlands health, rivers, drinking water supplies and infrastructure.
Data collected by the then Department of Land and Water Conservation for use in the NSW State of the Environment Report in 2003 identified the Cowra LGA as being a ‘high to critical risk’ for acidification hazard with the majority of the Shire classified as being extremely acidic (pH <3.5). Acid soils restrict plant growth reducing crop and pasture production and biodiversity. This can lead to other land degradation problems such as dryland salinity and nitrate pollution of ground water.
5.2 Air:
Cowra is also fortunate to have good air quality, with the three regulated sites across the Shire returning consistently low rankings on air-borne emissions.
5.3 Water:
Water quality is defined as the condition of the water in the rivers and aquifers of the LGA. It is discussed in terms of physical characteristics of the water such as pH, turbidity and biological oxygen demand. Within the Cowra LGA, the monitoring site along the Lachlan River exceeded the recommended guidelines for phosphorus levels in less than 25% of samples during 2005. Of more concern, the site along the Belubula River exceeded guidelines in more than 75% of samples analysed.
The Lachlan River is one of many rivers facing sharp increases in salinity with a three-fold increase expected in the next 100 years. As salinity levels increase in rivers across the state, many water uses are likely to be compromised.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has recommended a desirable upper salinity limit for drinking water of 800EC. Pipes, fittings and appliances such as hot water systems and evaporative cooling systems will be significantly affected (eg life span halved) as EC levels rise above 600EC. This threshold of 600EC is regularly exceeded at 2 monitoring sites in Cowra LGA.
The amount of total annual water supplied to the Cowra LGA from 2001 to 2004 has increased by 120ML. The average annual residential water also increased in this period from 244kL in 2001/2002 to 273kL in 2003/2004. The average annual residential water use still remains slightly higher than the state average of 220kL per connected property.
The water compliance levels for Cowra LGA were below average for the 2001/2002 reporting period but are average and above in the 2003/2004 reporting period when compared to other local governments in NSW. Groundwater is another important and vital resource in New South Wales and sustains a variety of ecosystems and is an important resource for agriculture and domestic use. Careful management of the quality and quantity of this resource is needed to allow sustainable use. The main impacts on groundwater quality in NSW are increased salinity and contamination by pollutants. 2005/2006 ANNUAL REPORT
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The groundwater along the lengths of the Lachlan River system is classified as ‘moderate’ to ‘fresh’ and is suitable for domestic, stock and some irrigation purposes. The groundwater in the surrounding areas of the region are more saline and classified as ‘brackish’ and have more limited uses, being suitable for dairy and beef cattle, horses and sheep.
Demand for groundwater resources in NSW has increased substantially with some resources being used beyond their sustainable yield.
As at 2002, the Lachlan area was maintaining a sustainable level of groundwater use with small regions experiencing higher extraction levels that may have negative impacts in the long term. The groundwater management areas of Murrumbidgee, Macquarie–Bogan, Hunter, Lower Murray, Upper Namoi, Lower Gwydir and Peel River catchments have been identified as being at risk from over-extraction. There is little or no potential for further commitment of ground water in these areas.
The fundamental concept of groundwater vulnerability is that some land areas are more vulnerable to groundwater contamination than others. Along the lengths of the Lachlan River around Cowra, groundwater vulnerability has been classified as moderately high in close proximity to the major tributaries to high along the River itself. The surrounding land is classified as low-moderate to moderate. Only minimal areas have been rated as low.
5.4 Biodiversity:
Biological diversity (biodiversity) is the variety of all life forms – the different plants, animals and micro-organisms, the genes they contain and the ecosystems of which they form a part.
Protecting biodiversity and maintaining essential ecological processes and life support systems is a core objective of the National Strategy for Ecologically Sustainable Development (ESD). This means maintaining the natural resources and environmental capital so that the needs of future generations are not compromised.
Cowra is home to the Conimbla National Park, which covers an area of 7,590 ha (NPWS, 1997) and supports a variety of low forest, open woodland and dry heath communities. Wyangala Waters State Recreation Area is a significant environmental feature of the Cowra Shire. It covers an area over 2,000 ha, making it the third-largest state recreation area in NSW.
The loss and decline of native vegetation can lead to a substantial reduction in terrestrial habitats and is a major threat to biodiversity. The clearing of native vegetation is also strongly linked to soil degradation, such as erosion and salinity, a decline in aquatic ecosystem health and water quality, and climate change. It is estimated that around 40% of the Lachlan CMA is currently vegetated to some degree and 60% has been cleared. Riparian vegetation is vegetation on land that adjoins, directly influences or is influenced by, a body of water. A major cause of degradation is the introduction of, or invasion by, non- native species such as willows which can affect channel structure due to their root systems. Changes in flow regimes can also affect riparian vegetation through erosion and altered
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flooding regimes. On a local scale, riparian vegetation can be degraded as a direct consequence of clearing or activities such as cropping or unlimited stock access.
Total native vegetation cover in the Lachlan Catchment is estimated to be about 76% although the extent of landscape modification is variable across the catchment, with the eastern parts of the catchment more modified than the west. The vegetation communities in the central and eastern parts of the catchment tend to be highly fragmented and highly modified by grazing, cropping, irrigated agriculture and forestry activities.
Once an ecological community is listed as threatened under the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999 (EPBC Act), their recovery is promoted using Recovery and Threat Abatement Plans. A report generated by an EPBC Act Protected Matters search (13 April 2006) listed the ‘Grassy White Box Woodlands’ as an endangered threatened ecological community within the Cowra LGA. A classification of ‘endangered’ is defined as an ecological community that is facing a very high risk of extinction in the wild in the near future.
5.5 Waste:
Cowra Shire Council is involved in the collaborative waste management project coordinated by NetWaste and is included in the Eastern Subregional Waste Management Plan (Nolan- ITU Pty Ltd 2004). The aim of the waste management plan is to ‘provide direction for the ongoing management of waste services’. With information collected from late October 2003 to early February 2004, this plan surveyed the services and facilities of Council and found that 86.3% of households in the Cowra Shire are serviced by their garbage collection service. In addition, 30.9% of households have the benefit of a kerbside recycling collection service. Currently 3 landfill sites operate in the Cowra LGA – Cowra Material Recycling Facility (MRF), Woodstock Waste Site and Gooloogong Waste Site. The Cowra site has an estimated life span of 30 years and embraces best practice principles to manage waste via waste landfill and recycling.
In addition, village recycling stations are located in Billimari, Gooloogong, Woodstock, Wyangala Park and Wyangala village, Darbys Falls, Wattamondara, Morongla and in the Cowra Woolworths car park.
Domestic waste generated per capita per annum has varied greatly over the last 3 reporting periods. Even allowing for this, the domestic waste generated per capita in the Cowra Shire was below the State average for 2003/04.
There are a number of land-uses that exist in Cowra Shire, or that have operated in the past, that by the nature of their operations have caused some level of contamination. State Environmental Planning Policy No. 55 – Remediation of Land lists a number of land-uses that can cause contamination.
5.6 Noise:
Noise pollution can be defined as unwanted offensive noise that unreasonably intrudes on daily activities (NSW SoE 2003). 2005/2006 ANNUAL REPORT
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As a rural environment, generally Cowra Shire has no significant noise issues. Urban and rural noise may result from agricultural activities, transport and traffic noise, and neighbourhood noise such as air conditioners or barking dogs. The Protection of the Operations Act 1997 (POEO Act) is the key piece of environment protection legislation administered by the EPA.
5.7 Aboriginal Heritage:
The 2004 Cowra Shire Council ‘State of the Environment’ report listed 398 recorded sites of Aboriginal heritage with 408 features within these sites. There are also a number of items listed on both state and national heritage registers. A site of significance to natural heritage is the findings of fossilised fish dating as far back as the Late Devonian period in sandstone outcrops of the Conimbla National Park and surrounding areas.
5.8 Non-Aboriginal Heritage:
The rich and varied non-Aboriginal Heritage of the shire can perhaps be divided into two parts – European and Japanese. The European heritage is well documented and survives through the joint efforts of the Council, government agencies, and various volunteer organisations. The Japanese heritage springs from the famous breakout of 1944 where a tragic wartime incident has grown into a warm and healthy relationship between Japan and Cowra.
In addition, the ‘Cowra Shire Heritage Inventory’ was compiled in 2003 using State Heritage Inventory database software provided by the Heritage Office of NSW and details 73 items of significance throughout Cowra. It is understood that a detailed historical study is currently being conducted to update these past studies. It is expected to be completed in conjunction with the Cowra Shire Land-Use Strategy.
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CCuullttuurraall AAwwaarreenneessss
Diverse Culture Programs - Section 428(2)(j)
Cowra boasts a healthy level of diversity of cultures. This is emphasised by the strong links with Japan due to the “Cowra Breakout” during World War II. However there are more subtle and important local cultural qualities brought to the community by longer term and newer arrivals.
Cultural diversity is reflected in those who speak other languages before English, and also through the cultural differences of other English speaking cultures. The number of people speaking English only in the Cowra Shire community is very high. From the 2001 Census 11,693 from 12,462 persons (94% of residents) speak English only.
Culturally & Linguistically Diverse Communities
The numbers of residents from other countries from recent periods of immigration however remains quite significant. As at the 2001 Census the total population born overseas was 5.7%. The main countries of birth (other than Australia) in 2001 were United Kingdom, New Zealand, and Germany.
Culturally and Linguistically Diverse (CALD) make up 10.6 % of the Cowra Shire population. In 1991 only 3.5% of people spoke languages other than English, and in 2001 this figure had increased to 5.9%. Chinese languages (26 persons), Greek (25 persons) and Japanese (23 persons) were the most commonly spoken “other” languages.
The Census figures advise that of those persons who speak another language, there are only 30 who speak English “Not Well” and none who “do not speak English at all”.
To date the Council has not received any requests to attend to language issues or produce any of its publications in another language besides English. In summary the Council has considered the language needs to be of a very minor nature and insufficient to justify special resources over and above what is already being provided by other organisations in the community.
Migrant Support
The regional migrant support worker based at the Bathurst Information and Neighbourhood Centre visits Cowra on the 4th Friday of each month. This is a free service for migrants from countries where English is not the first language.
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A Multicultural Reference Group also operates from the Cowra Information and Neighbourhood Centre providing support, networking opportunities and social activities for culturally and linguistically diverse communities. In 2006, a Multicultural Worker’s position was created under the auspice of the Cowra Information and Neighbourhood Centre with funding from the Community Relations Commission. The position is currently funded for 1 day a week for a period of 12 months, although a second application has been submitted to continue the position during 2007.
Cowra Cultural Council
The Cowra Cultural Council operates as a hub from which all groups can network and voice their cultural needs to Council. Meetings are held quarterly with the main goals of the organisations being to facilitate communication between the various cultural organisations and develop, implement and maintain the strategies of the Cowra Shire Cultural Plan.
The Cultural Plan identifies as a strategy the Cultural Council’s desire to consult with people of non-English speaking background in Cowra and their representative organisations and work in partnership with these people to implement cultural programs.
Desired outcomes include the conducting of a consultation process with the Shire’s CALD population to determine potential cultural initiatives; encouraging an advocate for the Shire’s CALD population to attend cultural council meetings as regular members or guest speakers; establishing a strong working network with the Multicultural Reference Group and other appropriate bodies; encouraging involvement in the Cowra Festival of International Understanding and encouraging CALD groups to participate in the Shire’s inaugural Cultural Gala Day, currently scheduled for April 2007.
Cowra Festival of International Understanding
The Cowra Festival of International Understanding has been run annually for forty three years, and over this time it has evolved to meet changing community expectations and values. Originally called the Cowra Festival of the Lachlan Valley the Festival has always focused on Cowra’s relationship with international communities. Cowra Shire is proud to claim it has over 45 different nationalities living within its community and in 1992 Cowra was internationally recognised as a centre of world peace and international understanding, through the awarding to the town of Australia’s World Peace Bell. These factors, together with Cowra’s unique international links as a result of having been the site for a POW Camp during WWII, make the annual Festival a fitting way to celebrate the essence of the Cowra Shire community. The Festival of International Understanding remains the largest and most prominent annual community event coordinated and supported by Cowra Shire Council.
Each year, the Festival features a Guest Nation. The Festival provides the Guest Nation with the opportunity to showcase their cultures and customs, and share in a time of celebration and goodwill with the people of Cowra. It also aims to expose the people of Cowra to the
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customs and cultures of the Guest Nation. Depending on the cultural activities of the guest nation, a number of events are held around the main festival weekend. These include school activities, lunch hour theatre, guest speakers at community and club dinners, cultural displays, the music, dance and food of the guest country, art exhibitions and workshops and sporting events.
Each year, the Festival opens with a Multicultural Reception at the Civic Square, attended by members of Cowra’s culturally diverse community and featuring cuisine from the Guest Nation. Presided over by the Mayor of Cowra, this event is strongly attended by Cowra’s diverse multicultural community and well supported by the Cowra Multicultural Reference Group. This event coincides with National Harmony Day and is recognised as Cowra’s annual Harmony Day event. The Festival traditionally closes with an Inter-Faith church service for Cowra’s multi-cultural and multi-denominational community.
Cowra Social Plan 2005-2009
Cowra’s culturally and linguistically diverse population were consulted with during the development of the 2005-2009 Cowra Shire Social Plan (adopted by Council on 19 December 2005). The Social Plan identifies strategies to support and embrace people from other cultures as they move to Cowra and to be actively supportive of expanded education support, and promotion of immigration and employment opportunities for CALD residents in the Shire.
The Plan also recommends that Council develop policies and procedures to regularly train staff and councillors in cultural awareness issues and work with the range of cultural groups to improve communication between the groups for the benefit of the community’s knowledge of events and groups. The need for clear marketing of the cultural features of Cowra (through signage) is also identified.
Since the adoption of the plan, Council has made significant achievements in implementing strategies for people from CALD backgrounds, including the development of a Welcome Kit (information pack) for new residents, the inclusion of details on Councils website to profile Cowra’s diverse population and the delivery of the Translating and Interpreting Service training for 10 Council customer service staff. Council is currently investigating the installation of an SBS radio transmitter in the Shire in accordance with the SBS self-help initiative which offers up to $25,000 to help Council’s access this service. Cowra’s multicultural community have been the driving force behind this project.
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WWoorrkkss CCaarrrriieedd OOuutt BByy CCoouunncciill
Private Works Section 428(2)(k)
No resolution passed during the 2005/2006 with regards to Section 67 works carried out on private land where costs were either full or partially subsidised by Council. Council did however undertake work on private land to the value of $516,000.
Council applies the following policies with regard to charging for these private works:
Plant Hire Rates - Reviewed annually. Internal plant hire rates plus 20%. Labour - Actual costs including 36.9% for on-costs plus 20%. Materials - Actual costs plus 20%
Public Works - Section 428(d)
A summary of Council’s Public works for the 2005/2006 year are as set out in Special Schedule 7 of the Annual Financial Statements.
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EEmmppllooyymmeenntt wwiitthhiinn CCoouunncciill
Senior Staff Remuneration - Section 428(2)(g)
During the year, one senior staff member was employed by Council as follows:-
General Manager
The total expenditure for the 2005/06 period in respect of employment of senior staff in accordance with Section 217(1)(b) including salary, motor vehicle, expenses, package benefits, fringe benefits tax, superannuating and provision for leave entitlements was $155,324.00.
No new designated senior staff were employed by Council during the 2005/2006 year.
Human Resources Activities - Section 428(2)(m)
Cowra Shire Council recognises that one of its major assets is a well trained multi-skilled workforce. Council expended $83,000 on training throughout 2005/2006.
Training in the following areas was undertaken in 2005/2006:-
OH & S Vocational qualifications Computer operations Workplace effectiveness Traffic control Various TAFE courses
Priority is given to those courses required by legislation or regulating authorities e.g. Workcover and RTA.
In addition training needs are discussed with all employees, at least six monthly, with their supervisors as part of Council’s Performance Assessment program. Mutual agreement is reached on the training requirements, if any, of the employee.
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Equal Employment Opportunity - Section 428(2)(n)
During 2005/2006 Council continued its commitment to the principles of EEO through its established management plan.
It is the policy of Cowra Shire Council to ensure that the talents and resources of all employees are utilised fully and that no job applicant or employee receive less than favourable treatment on the grounds of sex, marital status, pregnancy, race, religious or political conviction, or disadvantaged by conditions or requirements which cannot be shown to be relevant to performance. In addition Council is committed to promoting equal employment opportunity for all of its employees.
Council works to achieve the following aims:-
To monitor and support the application of the above policy, relevant state and federal legislation, and Equal Employment Opportunity principles generally, to all aspects of the work environment at Cowra Shire Council.
To provide a representative staff forum, able to raise and discuss issues relevant to Equal Employment Opportunity at Cowra Shire Council, and to assist in the formation of policies to resolve such issues.
To meet the requirements of the Local Government Act, 1993.
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AAssssoocciiaatteedd OOrrggaanniissaattiioonnss && CCoommppaanniieess
External Bodies – Delegation - Section 428(2)(o)
During the period 1/7/05 to 30/6/06 no external bodies exercised functions delegated by the Council.
Controlling Interests in Companies - Section 428(2)(p)
During 2005/2006 Council held a controlling interest in the following companies:-
Company Details On 26th May 2006 Council purchased the Cowra Conserve-a-Tree Nursery Ltd. assets of Cowra Conserve-a-Tree Nursery Ltd and the assets are now part of Council.
Co-operatives, Partnerships or Joint Ventures - Section 428(2)(q)
During the year, Council continued its joint venture arrangements with the Councils of Orange, Cabonne, Blayney and Forbes for the provision of a regional library service known as Central West Libraries.
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OOtthheerr IInnffoorrmmaattiioonn Privacy and Personal Information
The Privacy and Personal Information Protection Act 1998 requires Council to publish details of action taken to comply with the act and statistics of any reviews conducted.
Council adopted at its meeting on 27th August 2001 a Privacy Management Plan. There have been no reviews conducted under Part 5 of the Privacy and Personal Information Protection Act, 1998.
General Regulation Requirements
Overseas Visits Funded by Council - Clause 31 (1) (a)
In April 2006, Council’s Community Projects Officer travelled to Japan at Council’s expense to participate in a three week work exchange with Joetsu City Council. Cowra Shire and Joetsu City signed a Friendship Agreement in 2003 based primarily on their shared Prisoner of War Camp history during World War II and their desire to foster peace and reconciliation. The introduction of a staff exchange between the two Councils was the next step in developing this relationship. During the stay in Joetsu, the staff member participated in a home-stay with 4 Japanese families therefore accommodation and meals expenses were kept to a minimum
Activities for Children - Clause 31 (1) (c)
During 2005/2006 a wide range of activities for children were promoted at the Cowra Library and Cowra Art Gallery, all of which were carried out with the strong support of Council. Such activities include school holiday activities, youth art exhibitions and competitions, puppet making workshops and performances and gala reading days. In January 2006, Cowra Shire Council in conjunction with the Cowra Art Gallery conducted a Youth Art Workshop in etching and engraving clay tiles, which was well received.
Other children’s activities coordinated by Council include the annual Waste to Art competition and exhibition, attracting young people ranging from 7 to 18 years of age. Hip Hop dance workshops were also conducted in association with Cowra Community Health as part of a Healthy Local Government Grants Initiative funded by the Local Government and Shires Associations of NSW.
Cowra’s Youth Week activities were a collaborative effort between Council and other stakeholders in the community and included a Battle of the Bands, Youth March and movie night.
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Council’s major festival, ‘The Cowra Festival of International Understanding’ is strongly oriented to involving children in the events activities, whether that is through school projects, participating in the parade or taking part in the carnival. Children’s rides and activities feature highly at the carnival including jumping castles and show rides as well as free games, balloons and circus performances.
Australia Day is another children oriented event with free entry to the Aquatic Centre, social swimming races where everyone gets a prize, school’s colouring in and story writing competitions and youth art workshops being an annual feature.
Council also actively support and subsidises children’s sport in the Shire by not charging junior sporting associations for the use of Council’s sporting facilities.
Data available to Council indicates that the community is well served by the three private child care centres and eight primary schools in Cowra Shire. These facilities are strongly supported by youth and family support services such as early intervention, children’s counselling services, aboriginal services, toy library, family support, home-start and health professionals. Various family day care services operate in the Shire and a range of play groups are available for social interaction between children and their families.
Access and Equity of Services to All - Clause 31 (1) (d)
A report on the Council’s Performance in relation to programs undertaken by the Council to promote services and access to services for residents and other users of those services.
Activities in this area include:
Weekly information column in local newspaper Management Plan consultation process and open forums on proposed changes were conducted Council services are advertised in local papers and press releases regarding services and activities are released on a regular basis Information tours for local school groups and other interested parties are conducted on a regular basis Brochures on specific services are developed as required. Food handling seminars are conducted to educate local food outlets on proper food handling procedures Open Forums at start of all meetings Mayoral Morning Teas on general issues A scooter owners group continued to operate and meet with Councillors and staff. A program which that group has initiated to upgrade gutter crossing access for their gophers has continued. Development applications continue to be assessed to ensure new commercial premises provide proper disabled access.
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Business Activities - Clause 31 (1) (d)
Council has categorised the following business activities:-
Category 1: Water Supply Category 2: Sewer Operations
Council has distributed to both the Category 1 and 2 business functions direct and indirect costs according to Council’s predetermined overhead allocation guidelines.
Assets Held Revenues ($’000) Expenses ($’000) ($’000) Water Supply 3,227 3,900 32,740 Sewer Operations 1,505 1,063 11,288 Cowra Conserve-A- 2,100 1,278 32 Tree Ltd
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FFrreeeeddoomm ooff IInnffoorrmmaattiioonn RReeppoorrtt
The Freedom of Information Act requires Council to publish in its Annual Report statistical details of Freedom of Information requests for the period 1/7/05 to 30/6/06.
General:
Cowra Shire Council is committed to the provision of an open system of Government where every attempt is made to provide access by members of the public to the decision making process of the Council. In view of this attitude of Cowra Shire Council, the number of formal applications under the Freedom of Information Act is reduced, as wherever possible, documents are provided to an applicant without charge under Council’s normal practices.
FOI Applications
Number of FOI applications:
In the period from 1st July 2005 to 30th June 2006, Cowra Shire Council received three (3) formal Freedom of Information applications.
Comparison with previous year:
Five (5) applications were received in the 2004/2005 year.
Appeals against FOI decisions:
In the determination of all FOI applications, Cowra Shire Council advised the applicant of their rights to appeal under the Freedom of Information legislation.
One (1) appeal for an internal review was received.
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FFiinnaanncciiaall SSttaatteemmeennttss
Financial Reports - Section 428(2)(a)
The Council’s audited Financial Statements for the year ended 30 Jun 2006 are presented on the following pages.
These statements are the first Cowra Shire Council statements to be prepared in accordance with Australian equivalents to International Financial Reporting Standards (AIFRS) and AASB 1 has been applied in their preparation. Previous financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the former Australian Generally Accepted Principles (GAAP) which differ in certain respects from AIFRS. When preparing these financial statements, certain amended accounting and valuation methods have been applied in GAAP to comply with AIFRS. With the exception of financial instruments, where Council has taken the exemption available under AASB 1 to only apply AASB 132 and AASB 139 from 1 July 2005, the comparative figures have been restated to reflect these adjustments.
For an overview of the content of the statements readers are advised to refer to the Auditors Report in the body of the statements which isolates the salient points to be made in respect of the results.
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Cowra Shire Council
Annual Financial Statements
1st July 2005 to 30th June 2006
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