MAYORAL MESSAGE

The state of our roads continues to be of real concern to everyone. Council is very aware that poor roads are a safety issue and hamper development and business potential. For many years this, and many other rural councils, have struggled to balance community expectations and income that has been capped by the State Government.

After the community information sessions in early September 2009, the Dungog Shire Council Situation Analysis and Land Use Strategy was adopted at the February 2010 meeting and is progressing so that the LUS becomes the NSW Planning’s “endorsed” local strategy. During 2010-2011 Council staff will be working with NSW Planning on the development of the Councils Standard Instrument Local Environment Plan it is envisaged that Council will undertake public consultation in the latter half of the financial year.

Council is about to commence development of an Integrated Community Strategic Plan. This will provide Council with a long term strategic sustainability plan for this Shire. The main purpose of this plan will be to understand what vision the community has for its future, identify the strategic actions required and to develop a sustainability plan that will drive the integrated and reporting framework within the Council. In the coming year this will also entail extensive and structural consultation with the community across all the villages that make up this shire. Implementation of this plan is expected by 30 June 2012.

The Management Plan 2010 – 2013 Mayoral Message stated “In real terms, the Council cannot continue to operate its asset base from a community benefit perspective and we need to focus on a business approach looking for positive returns on built assets or contemplating the disposal of under-utilised or poorly performing assets”. This approach becomes more relevant today as increases in water charges, energy charges, Sec. 88 waste levy charges, insurance costs and staff salary increases all exceed the permitted increase in Council rates allowed for by the Minister for Local Government under the NSW Government rate pegging policy. Council’s budget is limited in terms of alternate revenue streams and there is significant reliance on grant funding for projects.

The Tillegra Dam proposal continued to expend considerable time and energy from both staff and councillors. This work has come at considerable cost but is necessary to ensure whatever the outcome of the assessment, the best result is achieved for the community.

Council always has, and continues to, welcome the participation of the community in all of its activities and I personally encourage everyone to become involved.

Harold Johnston MAYOR

Dungog Shire Council Annual Report 2009/10 Page 2 GENERAL MANAGERS OVERVIEW

The annual report presents the opportunity to reflect upon the performance of the Council over the previous twelve months and to report in an open way to the community. The challenges facing local government continue to grow and the Council continues to finely balance meeting the community's expectations in times of severe fiscal restraint.

The Council has managed to meet its statutory obligations in terms of the timely completion of strategic tasks such as setting the Annual Management Plan, levying and collecting rates, completion of the financial statements of account and adoption of the external auditors report, as well as compliance with many other programs as regulated by Government.

In October 2009 the Division of Local Government advised that the “Integrated Planning & Reporting” legislation had been adopted and Councils were now required to have in place by 30 June 2012 a community strategic plan, 10 year financial plan, asset management plans, a four year service delivery plan and a one year operational plan as well as a human resource strategy. Work on this project will commence in earnest during the 2010/2011 financial year.

The year has seen the completion of the Councils Land Use Strategy which is a critical element in terms of the future development of our Shire in relation to land use planning. The document itself also included a specific chapter in relation to the Tillegra Dam precinct so as to ensure that the Council did not have to re-visit the land use strategy should there be a positive determination on the Dam.

The proposed Tillegra Dam has again consumed countless hours of staff time in the past 12 months, following the release of the Environmental Assessment Report in September 2009 Council officers prepared a detailed response on behalf of Council and the community in relation to the project. I need to recognise the efforts of Matthew Brown and Terry Kavanagh for their significant commitment to the submission process as many personal hours were sacrificed by the management team of Council.

Throughout the year Council continued to actively lobby both the State and Federal Government in relation to road funding highlighting the potential impacts that the proposed Dam would have on the road network, the route access strategy as developed by Councillor Glenn Wall in consultation with senior engineering staff, NRMA and RTA underpins the Councils ongoing argument for increased funding for the regional road network.

Council has made further representations to IPART in relation to the review of the local government revenue framework, following on from submissions made in 2008. On completion of the review the NSW Government announced that IPART would be involved in the setting of the rate-pegging limit into the future and would also be gathering information in relation to the development of a local government cost index.

Councils main concern into the future is sustainability, with an ageing infrastructure asset base and limited alternate funding opportunities available to assist in the renewal of assets the Council again made application to the Minister for Local Government for a rate increase for 2009-2010. Councils application was refused which was disappointing as it had always been part of the Councils original submission to raise the Councils rate base over three separate financial years as opposed to an initial impact in the vicinity of 15%, 2009-2010 was meant to have been the last stage of the Councils initial proposal as submitted to the community.

In the past 12 months there has been a significant amount of legislative change that will impact upon the Councils operations into the future, from the introduction of the Sec 88 waste levy from 1 July 2009 through to the Planning Reform amendments and restrictions in relation to Sec 94 developer contributions. Many of the legislative reforms will impact upon Councils operating income and expenses and could well jeopardise long term infrastructure projects as a consequence.

Dungog Shire Council Annual Report 2009/10 Page 3

Each quarter a comprehensive report is provided to the Council that details the progress being made towards meeting the relevant performance targets as detailed within the Management Plan. Furthermore a comprehensive report on the financial position and budget comparisons is also provided on a quarterly basis. These reports provide the Council with the opportunity to seek clarification as regards the status of projects and the ability of the Council to ascertain whether the performance targets as set will be met.

The external auditors have reported on the financial performance of the Council and whilst the financial indicators do indicate that the Council is in a sound financial position it must be emphasised that the Councils operating result before capital funding continues to highlight the Councils reliance on Capital Grants and contributions to deliver infrastructure renewal.

The Council does not function without the dedication and commitment of our staff. They are part of the community and apply themselves in a most diligent fashion and such reflects in the professionalism demonstrated when dealing with the members of the public. Throughout the 2009/10 financial year there have been many occasions where members of the public have personally written letters of appreciation to Council for the assistance they have been afforded or where works undertaken have exceeded their expectations.

In closing I would also like to recognise the members of our community who are engaged in undertaking voluntary work within our Shire. From members of management committees of Council owned community facilities to the volunteer fire-fighter it is the efforts of these people that strengthen our communities there are so many dedicated and hardworking individuals within our Shire that help make Dungog Shire such a special place to live.

Craig Deasey GENERAL MANAGER

Dungog Shire Council Annual Report 2009/10 Page 4 ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURE

Vacant OFFICER TRAINEE Eric Pasenow OFFICER (Part Time) (Part PROJECTS COMMUNITY

Lowrey Tracey NOXIOUS WEEDS LANDFILL STAFF Damien Reeves ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH OFFICER SERVICES MANAGER ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH OFFICER Terry Kavanagh

ENVIRONMENTAL

OFFICER PROJECTS Lyn Brighton Brighton Lyn STRATEGIC

Vacant ow SENIOR PLANNER

OFFICER

CONTROL Kristy Cousins Brent Mason Mason Brent TRAINEE TOWN Carolyn Maginnity TOWN PLANNER TOWN PLANNER DEVELOPMENT OFFICER TOURISM

Wendy Farr INFORMATION MANAGER PLANNING Matthew Brown

OFFICER

ECONOMIC Greg Fenwick Fenwick Greg Nigel Atkins Nigel

DEVELOPMENT )

PROJECT ENGINEER

Councillors ASSETS & OFFICER ENGINEER Terry Wilson ( Time) (Part DEVELOPMENT Allan Shrimpton Shrimpton Allan ROAD SAFETY

GENERAL MANAGER MANAGER

ASSETS Craig Deasey

Steve Hitchens INFRASTRUCTURE &

EXECUTIVE MANAGER

Vacant Elected Members WORKS

MANAGER WORKS STAFF

LIBRARIAN Leslie Fisher

PROJECT MANAGER STRATEGIC Brett Peterkin TILLEGRA DAM –

Clement,

OFFICER FINANCE STAFF RTA – Joan Yates Yates – Joan RTA

Cheryl Hyde Cheryl RECORDS Rating – Helen Mammino COORDINATOR SENIOR FINANCE Gorton (Job Share) (Job Share) Gorton SERVICES MANAGER EXECUTIVE Virginia Daniels/Steve Daniels/Steve Virginia Baker Jane Accounts – Tony Sawyer, Cheryl Cheryl Sawyer, – Tony Accounts CORPORATE Shaun Chandler Wilkinson Cheryl Lyn Forbes (PartTime) FRONT OFFICE STAFF

Dungog Shire Council Annual Report 2009/10 Page 5 PRINCIPAL ACTIVITIES

GENERAL MANAGER

Community Outcome: To have an effective and responsive Council organisation.

Target Organisation Performance Status as at Number Targets Measures 30 June 2010

1. Strategic Goals: Improve Council’s Corporate Image & customer orientation.

1.1 The community is  Details and effectiveness of Promotions included Local provided with timely and promotions. Government Week, Seniors effective information on  Number of articles Week, Youth Week. Mayors the services and positive/negative/neutral. Weekly Happenings included in activities of the Council. local paper 98% of the time. 1.2 Provide customer  Percentage of customer 569 customer requests received service levels and requests complete in 7 with 57% completed in 7 days. response to days. correspondence times  Percentage of 7017 items of correspondence that meet community correspondence replied to received with 74% replied to in 14 expectations. within 14 days. days. 1.3 Provide the community  Annual Report completed with an annual on time in accordance with performance statement statutory requirements. through the production  Copies available to the Annual Report available on of the Annual Report community electronically Council’s website and in hardcopy that also satisfies and in hardcopy as if requested. statutory requirements. requested.

2. Strategic Goals: Develop Council as a modern & progressive Local Government body.

2.1 Participate in HC to Involvement in Hunter Ongoing with staff involved in nurture resource Councils activities. 85% of activities. sharing, interchange of ideas and to maximise government funding. 2.2 Development of a Councillor training plan Councillor training undertaken Councillor Training & developed by 30 September with focus 2009/10 to integrated Induction Program 2009. planning & reporting.

3. Strategic Goals: Promote an OH&S approach to Council’s functions, and promote rehabilitation wherever possible & practical.

3.1 Develop Programs,  Lost time injury frequency 30.7 Procedures and rate. Training.  Number of Safe Work Method Statements 3 developed. 3.2 Support the  Number of meetings of 2 recommendations and OH&S committee. actions of the  Number of Committee 0 Occupational, Health, recommendations Safety and implemented. Rehabilitation  Number of workplace 3 Committee. inspections undertaken.

4. Strategic Goals: To ensure that Council is actively engaged in the Tillegra Dam proposal.

4.1 Ongoing participation Meetings attended with sub All meetings attended by Council with Tillegra Dam committee representation. Community reference group

Dungog Shire Council Annual Report 2009/10 Page 6

Target Organisation Performance Status as at Number Targets Measures 30 June 2010 4.2 To ensure that the  Disadvantage recognised by  Included within submission 30 proposed Dam does not NSW Grants Commission November 2009. disadvantage our  Alternative grant funding  Dungog Business Investment community. schemes secured. Fund established. 4.3 Prevent the occurrence  Submission to Government Submissions made and of a negative financial Legislative reform achieved. delegations to Planning Minister impact on Council’s in relation to such. General Income. 4.4 To secure fair  Assessment of fair value of Ongoing pending final compensation for the infrastructure loss determination. loss of infrastructure if  Compensation bid submitted the proposed dam to Hunter Water if project proceeds. proceeds.

Community Outcome: Promote sustainable economic development within the Shire.

5. Strategic Goals: To continue to provide camping and caravan facilities within the Shire.

5.1 Promotion of Dungog  Occupancy levels.  On going promotion through Caravan Park & Williams  Overall increase in patronage the VIC and TNSW River Holiday Park to throughout the Dungog Shire websites. increase overall  Occupancy levels patronage. approximately 30% above budget estimates for the year. 5.2 Investigate the possibility Identification of a suitable site. Investigations are ongoing with of an additional caravan private ownership the most park facility at Dungog. likely option. The current investment environment is not encouraging immediate action. 6. Strategic Goals: To promote Dungog Shire as a tourist destination.

6.1 Promote the role of the  Usage of VIC services.  VIC services and sales are Visitor Information  No. of visitors attending VIC. constantly improving with Centre.  No. of phone call enquiries. updates to TNSW providing  Online booking statistics additional opportunities.  No. of volunteers involved  Visitor numbers to the VIC are above previous 2 year levels.  email and phone enquiries are static.  Online booking system through TNSW / Australian Tourism Data Warehouse (ATDW) is ongoing. 6.2  Implementation of the o Introduction of the key  All program priorities have relevant actions of the programme priorities. been completed. Barrington Tops o Completion of Tourism DCP  Restructure of Tourism Tourism Initiative with o Number of Trade Shows Hunter will create new HRTO and partners. attended. opportunities for industry  Participation in involvement. Tourism consumer  2/3 of trade shows were and trade shows in o Coach tours commenced. attended as central coast conjunction with was cancelled. Hunter Tourism and  Coach tours have Barrington Tops o Upgraded directional commenced through Tourism Marketing signage Riverwood Downs and Group. Upgraded amenities. Barrington Country Retreat.

Dungog Shire Council Annual Report 2009/10 Page 7

Target Organisation Targets Performance Status as at Number Measures 30 June 2010

 Encourage visitation  Upgraded access roads.  Forests NSW and NPWS to the area by tourist  New signs introduced have created improved coach operators. throughout Shire. amenities in several  Continue to lobby for locations. improved Tourist  Signage issues are ongoing infrastructure in  Plaques installed. Brochures  Plaques in Dungog installed NPWS & Forests distributed. brochure development NSW areas. ongoing by historical

 Implementation of  Successful, well attended society.

uniform Shire wide events.  Events in Autumn 2010

tourism signage were well attended with

policy. approximately 10,000 in

 Heritage Walk plaques overall estimates. in Dungog.  New successful events.  PR value from Film Festival  Ongoing promotion of in excess of $2m. annual Shire events  Smaller events are being  Promote the encouraged. development of new  New motor cycle events Shire events. held in 2010  Showground is being increasingly utilised. 6.3 Increase Dungog Shires Marketing strategy developed. BTT Initiative and visithunter profile within regional website are increasing the tourism markets. visibility of the Barrington Tops as a destination. 6.4 Promotion of all camping  Occupancy levels Camping levels are near and caravanning facilities  Participation of all facilities capacity in summer months and in the Shire to create in marketing campaigns. major weekends. increased consumer  Usage of RV rest areas and RV friendly site at the awareness. waste disposal point. showground is increasing popularity.

7. Strategic Goals: To provide infrastructure and assistance to developers interested in industrial and/or commercial development, and to promote the Shire for compatible and environmentally friendly development.

7.1 Implementation of Completion of plan Dungog Business Investment Economic and Industry implementation and possible Fund opportunities have Strategies as they are funding programmes. increased awareness and developed further. funding opportunities have been realised for 5 local businesses. Strategy was incorporated in the adopted Land Use Strategy and situation analysis. 7.2 Identification of suitable  Implementation of the Land Use strategy was adopted employment land Economic Development with reduced employment land development Strategy recommendations capacity for Dungog. consistent with the new Clarence Town employment Local Environment Plan lands were identified and 2006. adopted.  Development of industrial land in Dungog.  An assessment of employment land opportunities in Clarence Town and Paterson.  Development of an Employment Lands DCP.

Dungog Shire Council Annual Report 2009/10 Page 8

Target Organisation Targets Performance Status as at Number Measures 30 June 2010 7.3 Develop a prospectus  Completion of a new Ongoing project unlikely to be and suitable incentives to prospectus in association completed in the current attract appropriate with local businesses investment environment. business and industry in  Completion of a suitable Draft guidelines prepared. the Shire. business development incentives package

Community Outcome: To provide well resourced & maintained services and amenities.

8. Strategic Goals: To increase the amenity of Council’s road network through provision of Traffic Facilities (including footpaths, parking areas, bus shelters and signage). 8.1 Upgrade of entry points Introduction of tree lined Ongoing discussion with and town centres of all avenues and uniform signage community groups. Shire towns. at each of the Shire towns.

Community Outcome: To promote the maintenance of our harmonious, vibrant and diverse community.

9. Strategic Goals: To manage the Hunter Area Assistance Scheme in its provision of funding etc to enhance community facilities, services, and development.

9.1 Maintain and encourage  Community meeting  Community meeting community consultation conducted by 31 July. postponed with the release and input and identify  No. of one to one meetings of the new programme in community needs by held with various applicants. September. holding community  Various one to one meetings throughout the meetings with applicants Shire. applying under new application process. 9.2 Monitor services funded  Number of visits to services Working with existing funded under the Area or projects funded under the projects in regards to Assistance Scheme to Scheme. outstanding acquittals or ensure appropriate use of  Number of outstanding extended projects. resources and fulfilment funding acquittals. of objectives. 9.3 Support community groups Assistance provided with General Information session in the preparation and submission of applications. held late Sept 09 to promote the development of grant new program. – Community submissions which are Builders aimed at addressing identified needs.

10. Strategic Goals: To ensure the continuation of current health services and lobby to develop new services to meet areas of need.

10.1 Promote, encourage and  Improved Health facilities Bi monthly Health Forum develop Health Services and services in the Shire. meetings with various health within our Shire.  No of Doctors practicing service providers to monitor within the Shire. existing service provision and investigate options for both affordable housing and GP access.

Dungog Shire Council Annual Report 2009/10 Page 9

Target Organisation Targets Performance Status as at Number Measures 30 June 2010

11. Strategic Goals: To include and enhance arts, culture, heritage and community programmes and events making Dungog Shire a special place to live.

11.1 Develop and promote Number of grants received and  Successful grant funds for Shire “National Weeks” participation of community in Youth Week, International and events: events. Women’s Day and Seniors  Youth Week Week were received.  Senior Citizen Week  All events were supported by  Local Government Week the wider community and a  International Women’s number of partnerships Day including Dungog High  International Day for School, DINS and local People with a Disability businesses were involved. 11.2 Citizenship Ceremony Number of naturalisations. 1 ceremony was conducted in the chambers. 11.3 Australia Day Awards Develop, encourage and Successful Australia Day involving community provide community ownership Ceremony held with the awareness and and opportunities. involvement of community recognition. groups.

12. Strategic Goals: To ensure community facilities are meeting the needs of the community.

12.1 Development of a Sports  Establishment of a Sports  Ongoing discussions with Council. Council. various sporting  Percentage of strategic organisations to establish a plan completed. sports councils  Partner in the goods sports program to encourage active participation in all aspects of sport including well being through the shire sporting organisations.

13. Strategic Goals: To assist in the provision of Adult education, family day care and pre-school facilities in the Shire.

13.1 Assist in provision of Number and type of facilities  Options currently being facilities for Adult available to the community investigated by NGO’s to Education, Family Day within the Shire. expand or develop existing Care and Pre-Schools, services in Family Day Care, where appropriate. After School Care and Adult Education.  Ongoing liaising with Preschools’ to ensure delivery of service and access. 13.2 Assist with education Number of visits to Schools,  Number of school visits (4) programmes and community groups and were held at preschools, promotion for: participation of those groups. primary schools and high  Recycling school with the main focus  Clean Up Australia being recycling.  Water Week  National Tree Day was by all  National Tree Day 9 schools and 2 community organisations.

Dungog Shire Council Annual Report 2009/10 Page 10 EXECUTIVE MANAGER CORPORATE SERVICES

Community Outcome: To have an effective and responsive Council organisation.

Target Organisation Performance Status as at Number Targets Measures 30 June 2010

14. Strategic Goals: Research & implement appropriate forms of information technology to improve our service provision, and assist with the effective and efficient completion of all Local Government functions.

14.1 Review and assess  Compliance with State EDMS review complete and implementation of Records Act. compliant with State Records Electronic Document  Review of EDMS. Act. Management System. 14.2 Implementation of  Percentage of records held 30% of records in complying Records Management in complying storage storage conditions. strategy conditions.  Development of records Business Rules for capturing management policy. and entering documents implemented. 14.3 Investigate technologies Report on alternative means Completed for delivery of Council’s and appropriate costings for IT System. delivery of Council IT. 14.4 Review delivery of Completion of review. Completed services via the internet. 14.5 Monitor the delivery of No. of outstanding support Ongoing – no. of outstanding services by Councils IT calls logged with Civica. support calls average providers 9.25/month. 73% remain open, 18% awaiting Civica software development, 9% waiting staff attention. 14.6 Manage installation of  Software installed. Software installed, require asset Asset Management  All of Councils Asset data and input from Engineering Software categories are registered in to complete. Resource shortage new Asset Management in Engineering and Finance software. impacted on ability to complete.

15. Strategic Goals: Develop sound financial direction, policies and procedures.

15.1 Implement internal audit  Internal audit committee Minute No. 34431 confirms compliance program. established. Councillor support for the  No. of areas reviewed. establishment of internal audit committee. General Manager to consult with Council external auditors regards most cost effective and suitable arrangement and report back to Council recommended structure. 15.2 Investigate resource Internal audit program Internal audit checklists sharing/swap options for developed. developed and implemented for internal audit program Finance staff positions. with neighbouring Councils.

Dungog Shire Council Annual Report 2009/10 Page 11

Target Organisation Performance Status as at Number Targets Measures 30 June 2010 15.3 Regular review and  Annual financial reports Completed – Annual Financial analysis of financial completed in compliance Reports judged best in NSW by status and applicable with legislation and LGMA Finance Professionals, policies. accounting standards & Local Government Auditor appropriately reported to Association and Coalface Council. Software Solutions.

 Number of deficiencies reported to General Completed Manager.  Review completed and RAO signs off review (or Completed reports to Council with appropriate recommendations for ROI annualised - 4.96% remedial action). 90 day BBSW annualised –  Return on investments 4.92% compared to 90 day BBSW.

16. Strategic Goals: Increase Council’s general rate income to enable implementation of Infrastructure renewal programs for the community.

16.1 Undertake the  Consultation with DLG on a Council determined not to development of a rigid regular basis. submit a rating variation 10 year financial plan to  Development of options to application. support Councils rating enable consultation. 5 year plan completed, 10 yr variation application  Completion of the Plan by plan to be implemented 2011- June 2010. 12 subject to asset data availability.

Community Outcome: To maintain our safe and healthy social environment.

17. Strategic Goals: To minimise risk to the community and Council by identifying hazards and prioritising risk measures.

17.1 Preparation of Risk  Risk Management Plan Ongoing Management Plan. completed. Ongoing in consultation with  Policies developed. Statewide annual RM Plan.  All asset classes and Fair value valuations facilities recorded. undertaken on all Council Plant & Equipment, office Equipment and furniture & Fittings. 17.2 Implementation of Best  Guidelines implemented. Specific areas reviewed as part Practice Manuals  Number of claims recorded. of Public Liability Audit, awaiting received from Statewide update of some Best Practice on high-risk claim areas. Manuals. 2 Insurance claim 3 Workers Compensation claims 17.3 Conduct ongoing risk  No. of committees trained. Section 355 committee awareness programs  No. of committees guidelines to be developed to with Councils Sec 355 providing Council with assist committees understand Committees evidence of risk their responsibilities as assessments. members of the committee. No evidence of risk assessments received.

Dungog Shire Council Annual Report 2009/10 Page 12

Target Organisation Performance Status as at Number Targets Measures 30 June 2010 17.4 Development of a  Business Continuity Plan Ongoing – BC plan Business Continuity completed. implemented with Civica for Plan.  Business Continuity Plan Council core software tested. (Authority). Balance of systems to be reviewed and BC plan developed as part of IT strategy 17.5 Integrate Risk  Training programs  Ongoing - Workshop Assessment into all undertaken. conducted by Statewide for facets of Council's all outdoor staff on What is services and functions  Risk & hazard assessment Risk Management and Using sheets regularly used Signs as Remote Supervision December 2009.  Audit undertaken by Statewide of Council’s swimming pools and operators documentation to ensure compliance with Statewide Best Practice Manual.  2 staff attended Event Management Workshop conducted by Statewide June 2010.  Risk management clause to be standard in all position descriptions.

Dungog Shire Council Annual Report 2009/10 Page 13 EXECUTIVE MANAGER INFRASTRUCTURE & ASSETS

Community Outcome: To have an effective and responsive Council organisation.

Target Organisation Performance Status as at Number Targets Measures 30 June 2010

18. Strategic Goals: Provide Plant, Workshop, Depot & Quarry facilities which assist with the effective & efficient provision of services to the community (including private works).

18.1 Management review of  Plant Utilisation figures  Income 5% higher than internal plant hire rates reviewed. expectations annually to resource  Plant Income generated is  13.5% profit after plant replacement and sufficient to fund future depreciation maintenance. replacement program. 18.2 Review major plant  Plant utilisation  Plant replacement program replacement program percentages. reviewed annually.  Number of projects delayed  Nil projects delayed due to lack of available plant and equipment and plant repair. 18.3 Review workshop/depot  Number of incidents where  No issues found where plan annually. workshop/depot is found workshop non-compliant not to be OH&S compliant.  Workshop availability for  Workshop availability 100% plant repair.  Adequate stock levels  Stock levels adequate maintained. 18.4 Undertake private 15% Net Profit Margin. 5.2% Net Profit Margin works at competitive hire rates to return a profit. 18.5 Investigate Number of sites reviewed. Stroud Hill and Turnbulls rehabilitation of existing Development consents reviewed. quarry sites and obtain obtained. Development consent for retained quarry sites.

Community Outcome: To provide well resourced and maintained, services and amenities.

19. Strategic Goals: To provide appropriate public amenities such as Public Toilets, Swimming Pools & Parks, Gardens & Reserves.

19.1 Continue the public  Number of complaints.  17 privies improvement  Number of maintenance  17 program (with disabled requests. facilities).  Average response time  2.2 Days to maintenance requests.  Percentage of approved  100% capital works carried out. 19.2 Continue the  Number of Plans of  One (1) - James Theatre development and Management implementation of implemented.  Three (3) currently under Plans of Management  Number of Plans of review - Clarence Town for Community Assets. Management reviewed. SOA, Gresford SOA and Paterson Sportsground.

Dungog Shire Council Annual Report 2009/10 Page 14

Target Organisation Performance Status as at Number Targets Measures 30 June 2010

20. Strategic Goals: Endeavour to secure external financial allocations from Government for the ongoing provision of Council’s transport network.

20.1 Continue to lobby for Number of applications Various applications submitted Council’s road, bridges submitted to both levels of at all Government levels & traffic facilities Government for funding. infrastructure.

21. Strategic Goals: To maintain, rehabilitate, and upgrade Council’s local road network (as defined).

21.1 Review the condition of  Review is undertaken.  Review ongoing sealed roads each year  Area of road resealed.  55,093 sq metres resealed to ensure that maintenance work is targeted appropriately. 21.2 Review the condition of  Review undertaken.  Review ongoing each unsealed road  Program developed  Program is being met every 2 years to ensure that maintenance work is targeted appropriately. 21.3 Grade unsealed roads Length of unsealed road 235.43km of road graded in as required by adopted graded. 2009/10 program. 21.4 Review and update five Rolling works program Five year programme included year Rolling Works reviewed and submitted to in Management Plan Program for local road Council. improvement.

22. Strategic Goals: To maintain, rehabilitate, and upgrade classified roads in accordance with the Regional Road Management Plan.

22.1 Carry out maintenance  Proportion of Grant spent  38.0% spent on pothole attention including on pothole and heavy and heavy patching works heavy patching, patching. potholing, edge wear,  Length of reseals  25,483 sq metres resealed traffic safety and undertaken as (2.3% by length) resealing in order to percentage of road maximize benefit to network. road network for dollars spent. 22.2 Submit bids for Bids submitted. Bids submitted and maximum inclusion in RTA three grant approved year Rolling REPAIR Program.

23. Strategic Goals: To maintain and upgrade bridges, major culverts and causeways to a safe and serviceable condition to provide access 300 days per year at or above a load of 20 tonnes.

23.1 Review and update the  Rolling works program  Program reviewed as part five-year Rolling reviewed. of budget process Improvements Program  Number of bridges not  One bridge not meeting for replacement of meeting level of service. service level (replacement timber bridges, major scheduled for August 09) culverts and causeways.

Dungog Shire Council Annual Report 2009/10 Page 15

Target Organisation Performance Status as at Number Targets Measures 30 June 2010

24. Strategic Goals: To increase the amenity of Council’s road network through provision of Traffic Facilities (including footpaths, parking areas, bus shelters and signage).

24.1 Implement Traffic Traffic facilities program Programme implemented as Facilities program to implemented. funding allows eliminate /mitigate identified hazards.

Community Outcome: Promote sustainable economic development within the Shire.

25. Strategic Goals: Encourage development within the shire through provision of adequate industrial land.

25.1 Identify and develop Number of suitable industrial Two blocks of land in Common industrial land in land parcels prepared. Road were available for sale suitably zoned areas and to develop that land as required for sale.

26. Strategic Goals: Encourage growth within the major centres through the continued development of residential land.

26.1 Identify and develop Number of suitable residential Melbee subdivision works to residential land in land parcels prepared. (Stage IV) to be completed. suitably zoned areas and to sell that land as Investigations into Melbee demand requires. Stage V commenced

Community Outcome: To maintain our safe and healthy social environment.

27. Strategic Goals: To minimise risk to the community and Council by identifying hazards and prioritising risk measures.

27.1 Implement Road Safety  Design staff are  Training complete Audits. appropriately trained.  100% of Main Roads  Nil in 09/10 audited bi annually.  10% of local roads audited  Nil in 09/10 annually.

28. Strategic Goals: To support the provision of Emergency Services within the Shire, including the SES, the RFS, Police etc.

28.1 Ongoing monitoring of Service Level Agreement Zone RFS Agreement the Service Level reviewed on quarterly basis. implemented in July 2010. Agreements between Currently being monitored. the RFS and Council. 28.2 Test and review the Disaster plan tested. Zone Displan review being Dungog Local Disaster undertaken. Plan annually.

Dungog Shire Council Annual Report 2009/10 Page 16

Target Organisation Performance Status as at Number Targets Measures 30 June 2010

29. Strategic Goals: To provide and maintain stormwater drainage systems which minimise risk to properties, and ensure safety of the public and environment.

29.1 Investigation and  Analysis of stormwater  Urban stormwater data analysis of Council’s infrastructure completed. collected. Rural to be stormwater  Stormwater management undertaken as part of Asset infrastructure including plans developed. Valuation in 09/10. the development of  Capital Works program  Program to be developed stormwater developed on basis of management plans for priority program. the respective  Long term funding localities. models developed. 29.2 Prepare a Local Flood  Adoption of Local Flood  Ongoing Study. Study.  Adoption of the Williams River Flood Study 29.3 Continuation of the  Number of meetings  Ongoing Local Flood held. Management  Adoption of Local Flood Committee. Study.

30. Strategic Goals: To provide and maintain appropriate community buildings such as Museums, Community Centres, Public Halls, Neighbourhood Centres etc, for community use.

30.1 Review a five-year Building improvements Program development ongoing rolling buildings program developed and improvement program. submitted to Council with costings. 30.2 Maintain and upgrade Implementation of the Program development ongoing existing amenities in adopted maintenance accordance with strategy. adopted program. 30.3 Investigate the long-  Investigations Ongoing term funding of undertaken. community facilities.  Funding submissions completed and submitted.

31. Strategic Goals: To provide & maintain both passive and active recreation areas (parks, gardens, & reserves) for community use.

31.1 Review three year Review of program Data being collected for Rolling Parks and undertaken and reported to program review Reserves Improvement Council with costings. Program. 31.2 Undertake  Suitable sites identified.  Sites identified and investigations and  Consultation undertaken suitability reports for preliminary designs for within communities. Clarence Town and the development of  Designs formulated and Dungog options sporting fields within costings undertaken the communities of  Funding submissions  Funding submissions for Dungog and Clarence developed. two sites previously Town as identified in submitted with no success Council’s Section 94 Plans.

Dungog Shire Council Annual Report 2009/10 Page 17 MANAGER PLANNING

Community Outcome: To have an effective and responsive Council organisation.

Target Organisation Performance Status as at Number Targets Measures 30 June 2010

32. Strategic Goals: To provide property identification and planning assistance to developers & ratepayers, and to process Development Applications in accordance with the relevant statutory instruments and Legislation.

32.1 Assess and process  Monitoring undertaken. Development  Number of DA’s for: Applications (DA’s) in - Subdivisions 23 the shortest possible - Dwellings 19 time, given quality - Other 113 standards.  No. of referrals to RFS, 65 Dept Ag, etc  Percentage of DA’s 75% processed within 40 day statutory period.

Community Outcome: To maintain our safe and healthy social environment.

33. Strategic Goals: To provide a flexible planning framework that ensures innovative, orderly and economic use of land with appropriate environmental responses to guide future development within the Shire.

33.1 Update Strategic Number of applications which 7 Planning Program require variations to Council annually. policy. 33.2 Review Local Process commenced start of Worley Parsons appointment. A Environment Plan 2006. 2009. draft SI LEP has been completed. DSC selected by DoP to have the SI LEP fast tracked. 33.3 Review Planning Monitoring undertaken to Completed. LUS adopted. Instruments and Policies ensure key benchmarks of associated with Worley Parsons brief are met proposed Tillegra Dam and that documents reflect including land use plan. study findings.

Manage Worley Parsons studies 33.4 Review Tourism DCP Adoption of revised Tourism Tillegra tourism and economic and Economic Leakage DCP and Economic Leakage studies complete. Studies in view of Study. SI LEP will resolve this. proposed Tillegra Dam. 33.5 Participate and monitor Monitoring undertaken to Complete. application process for ensure Councils involvement proposed Tillegra Dam. at appropriate points in the process. 33.7 Review Section 94 Plan Adoption of revised Section Conducted a Council workshop. 94 Plan by end of 2009. Unable to proceed without a works plan. Council resolution to remain static. 33.8 Rural Lands Study Adoption by end of 2009. This has been completed via a Rural Lands Chapter in the LUS. Funding did not allow for full Rural Lands Study.

Dungog Shire Council Annual Report 2009/10 Page 18 MANAGER ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES

Community Outcome: To provide well-resourced & maintained services and amenities.

Target Organisation Performance Status as at Number Targets Measures 30 June 2010

34. Strategic Goals: To provide appropriate public amenities such as Cemeteries.

34.1 Allocation of allotments  Improvement in the Ongoing and visitation to management of Council's cemeteries before Cemetery records. burials to allow accurate  Number of burials. recording of burials on plans. 34.2 Maintain cemetery  Number of compliments. Three complaints re mowing grounds, facilities and  Number of complaints Two compliments signage. 34.3 Upgrade cemetery  Replace existing linen with Records have been transferred records and record durable paper. to paper and linens conserved. keeping system  Upgrade cemetery records Upgrade to GIS has been to digital & GIS system by delayed due to staff resourcing December 2009. and the broader issue of IT resources. 34.4 Implement the Plan of Implement Plan of Plan of Management provide Management for the Management pending and site selected. Awaiting possible relocation of approval of Dam. outcome of assessment by Quartpot Cemetery if Planning NSW Tillegra Dam proceeds.

Community Outcome: To provide effective and economical services and maintain public and environmental health.

35. Strategic Goals: To manage the waste stream in such a way as to reduce the waste going to landfill, encourage recycling, maximise the life of the current landfill site & to meet EPA licence requirements.

35.1 Review Waste Waste per capita to landfill 296 kg waste per capita Management & Recyclables per capita 184 kg recyclables per capita Recycling Strategy. diverted from landfill.

35.2 Promote recycling to Material recycled per capita 38% reduce nett waste as a percentage of the per stream in accordance capita waste stream. with Waste Management & Recycling Strategy. 35.3 Provide a domestic  Domestic Waste Service Cheaper than all neighbouring waste service to areas annual charge in Councils except Maitland who identified. comparison to similar rural no longer provide bulky waste services. pickup.  Number of service charges as a percentage of property 75% assessments. 35.4 Manage and monitor  Number of reported Nil redundant landfill sites. incidents and complaints. Paterson site complete  Implement Plans of Ongoing implementation of Management July 2009 POM’s 35.5 Manage and monitor  Compliance with Pollution Compliant landfill operations in Control Licence. accordance with  Number of reported Nil Pollution Control incidents and complaints. Licence & Landfill Environmental Management Plan.

Dungog Shire Council Annual Report 2009/10 Page 19

Target Organisation Performance Status as at Number Targets Measures 30 June 2010 35.6 Implement Sec 88 levy Compliance with Sec 88 Compliant record and accounting levy by December 2010. system.

36. Strategic Goals: To implement an Onsite Effluent Management Strategy for the Shire.

36.1 Register all onsite Number of systems with 2680 outside the Clarence effluent management operating approvals. Town village. Approximately systems and maintain 400 in the Clarence Town database. Village 36.2 Implement requirements Total number of inspections 3760 inspections, with all of onsite effluent since program commenced systems outside Clarence Town management strategy and percentage of total sewered area inspected regarding public number of systems education, rectification inspected of failures and upgrading of systems. 36.3 Develop new strategy Revised Strategy developed Not completed due to staff for the management of by July 2010. changes. OSM’s. 36.4 Ensure all new onsite Number of new systems 9 per Quarter 36 for 2009/10 effluent systems are approved quarterly. designed, installed and operated in accordance with Council’s Onsite Sewage Management Strategy. 36.5 Conduct regular  Number of inspections 35 per quarter 141 for the year inspections in undertaken quarterly. accordance with  Proportion of systems strategy. classified as high risk 38% when compared to the total number of systems.

37. Strategic Goals: To inspect, control and/or eradicate known noxious plants, and to minimise insect/vermin outbreaks within the Shire.

37.1 Identify and map known  Noxious plant infestation Awaiting upgrade of GIS noxious plant infestation areas mapped. areas.  Weed map GIS system in use & operating effectively by July 2010. 37.2 Implement Regional and  Number of weeds with 5 local Noxious Weeds regional management strategies. plans.  Number of weeds with 9 local management plans.  Number of Landscape Plans in use. 6 landscape plans in regional Strategy 37.3 Inspect Private  Number of inspections 355 for 2009/10 period. Properties for declared undertaken each quarter. noxious weeds when in  No of notices issued Nil growth period. each quarter.

37.4 Spray roadside for Kilometres of roadside 65 kms declared noxious weeds sprayed each quarter. systematically to reduce spread.

Dungog Shire Council Annual Report 2009/10 Page 20

Community Outcome: To maintain our safe and healthy social environment.

Target Organisation Targets Performance Status as at Number Measures 30 June 2010

38. Strategic Goals: To provide Food Inspections as required by the Public Health regulations, and to assist Hunter Area Health when required for immunisations, and in the event of an outbreak of infectious disease.

38.1 Provision of in kind Number of projects or Nil support to Hunter Area incidents requiring support Health Service when from Council. required. 38.2 Carry out inspections of all Number and percentage of All premises inspected food premises. food inspections undertaken.

39. Strategic Goals: To provide an effective animal control service within the limit of resources employed.

39.1 Provide an effective  Number of companion 29 impounding service. animals impounded quarterly.  Number of non 4 companion animals impounded  Proportion of companion 7% animals euthanased 39.2 Provide Animal Control  Degree of compliance of Compliant Services to meet Animal Control Services Companion Animals with relevant legislation. Legislation.  Number of dog and cat 66 complaints.  Number of companion animal fines issued.

40. Strategic Goals: Systematically carry out inspections for Local approvals/orders for: Entertainment, Skin Penetration, Hairdressers Shops, Undertakers Business & Mortuaries, Keeping of Animals, Bed & Breakfast and other tourism establishments.

40.1 Provide effective Number of inspections for 11 enforcement of Local various classifications 29 pollution complaints Government and carried out annually 39 vegetation complaints Environmental Legislation. 6 septic complaints 4 stormwater complaints 40.2 Ensure Places that  Percentage of premises All provide Public complying with annual Entertainment are certification effectively managed and  Number of inspections Nil monitored carried out

41. Strategic Goals: To actively support measures which enhance environmental attributes of the Shire's natural resources and promote ecologically sustainable development, and to provide an account of the activities of government, industry and the community through State of the Environment Reporting.

41.1 Support community Number of projects per Clean Up Australia and National projects on public land year. Tree Planting Day including Landcare, Clean Up Australia Day and National Tree Planting Day.

Dungog Shire Council Annual Report 2009/10 Page 21

Target Organisation Targets Performance Status as at Number Measures 30 June 2010 41.2 Fill "data gaps" in State of Number of identified Ongoing the Environment reporting. indicators provided. 41.3 Review and update State of the Environment Comprehensive SOE finalised Council's State of the report updated. in September Environment Report. 41.4 Participate in regional Number of regional Through HCCREMS Local Government natural programs and successful Sustainability resource management grant applications benefiting Climate Change Adaptation and environmental the local area annually. Vegetation mapping programs, including Roadside Marker Regional Environmental Compliance Program Strategy, Noxious Weeds, Illegal Dumping Hunter Councils Water Sensite Urban Design Environment Model, Local Regional Weeds Strategy Government reference groups, waste, health. 41.5 Ensure that Natural Resources and guidelines Assessment of DAs ongoing resources management, available. Transgrid, Proposed Tillegra local amenity and Dam, Railcorp, AGL Gas environmental protection pipeline, all reported to Council issues are considered in and submissions made where all development. required 41.6 Actively participate in the Forums and meetings Submission made on Ear and processing and including Council and the submission Report assessment of the community. Assessment Ongoing proposed Tillegra Dam development.

Dungog Shire Council Annual Report 2009/10 Page 22 CONDITIONS OF PUBLIC BUILDINGS & UTILITIES

Condition Estimate of Cost Estimate of Maintenance at End to Bring Annual Cost Program Site of to Satisfactory to Maintain for 2009/2010 2009/2010 Standard Standard (Current $ Value) (Current $ Value) Bandon Grove Toilet Block - Brick G $25,000 $250 Routine Clarence Town Bridge Reserve - Toilet Block – Brick F $1,800 $250 Routine Caravan Park - Amenities – Durham Street F Nil $500 Routine Clarence Town Park - Amenities Block - Brick - Queen Street G $2,500 $200 Routine Clarence Town Park - Main Swimming Pool - Queen Street G $20,000 $5000 Routine Clarence Town Park - Rugby League & Public Amenities Block - Brick - Queen Street G $5,000 $300 Routine Clarence Town Park - Waders Pool & Shade - Queen Street G Nil Nil Routine Community Centre - Brick & Timber - Lowe Street F $2,000 $500 Routine Court House & Museum - Weatherboard - Grey & Prince Streets P $10,000 $500 Routine Reg Ford Sporting Complex - Brick Toilets & Kiosk - Netball/Soccer - Durham Street G $7,000 $400 Routine School of Arts - Toilet Block - Brick - Prince Street G $20,000 $200 Routine School of Arts - Weatherboard - Prince Street F $20,000 $2,000 Routine Clarence Town Senior Citizens Centre - Prince Streets G $1,500 $500 Extension Added Wharf Reserve - Concrete Toilet Block F $13,700 $250 Routine Clarence Town Holiday Park Cabins F $60,000 $1,000 Routine Dungog Administration Office - Brown Street F $25,000 $5,000 Routine Alison Court Aged Units - Brown Street G $38,000 $2,000 Extensive Amenities Brick Toilet Block – Brown Street G $500 $350 Routine Bennett Park - Doug Walters Pavilion - Mackay Street F $100,000 $1,000 Routine Bruyn Park - Brick Toilet Block - Mackay Street F $10,000 $250 Routine DINS Building - Dowling Street F $2,000 $500 Routine James Theatre A.C. Clad Community Centre - Brown Street F $100,000 $10,000 Routine Library - Brick - Mackay Street G $4,000 $1,000 Routine Museum Brick & Stone Building - Dowling St Premises F $20,000 $2,000 Painted Saleyard Office Concrete Block - Short Street F $2,200 $250 Routine Saleyard - Toilets - Concrete Block - Short St F $1,500 $250 Routine Swimming Pool - Change Room - Brick - Lord & Chapman Streets G $2,000 $200 Routine Swimming Pool - Fencing - Lord & Chapman Streets F $1,500 Nil Routine Swimming Pool - Kiosk, Entrance & Plant Routine G $35,000 $375 Room - Lord & Chapman Streets Bennett Park Storage Shed – Lord Street V/G Nil $500 Routine

Dungog Shire Council Annual Report 2009/10 Page 23

Condition Estimate of Cost Estimate of Maintenance at End to Bring Annual Cost Program Site of to Satisfactory to Maintain for 2009/2010 2009/2010 Standard Standard (Current $ Value) (Current $ Value) Swimming Pool - Lighting - Lord & Chapman Sts G Nil Nil Routine Swimming Pool - Main Pool and Surrounds - Lord & Chapman Streets V/G Nil $2,000 Routine Swimming Pool - Seating - Lord & Chapman Streets G $1,500 Nil Routine Swimming Pool - Waders Pool - Lord & Chapman Streets G Nil Nil Routine Showground - Arts Pavilion - Corrugated Iron Clad - Chapman Street P $20,000 $1,000 Routine Showground - Caretaker’s Cottage - Chapman St P $70,000 $250 Routine Showground - Dairy Pavilion - Weatherboard - Chapman Street P $7,000 $250 Routine Showground - Horse Stables - Timber - Chapman Street P $35,000 $250 Routine Showground - Kiosk & Bar - Timber - Chapman Street G Nil $250 Routine Showground - Kiosk - Brick - Apex Club - Chapman Street V/G Nil $250 Routine Showground – Colourbond Storage Shed – Chapman Street V/G Nil $250 Routine Showground - Main Grandstand - Timber Constructed - Chapman Street P $90,000 $10,000 Extensive Showground - Playgroup Building - Weatherboard - Chapman Street G $2,000 $500 Routine Showground - Poultry Pavilion - Corrugated Iron Clad - Chapman Street G $500 $500 Routine Showground - Rodeo Shed – Colourbond - Chapman Street V/G Nil Nil Routine Showground - Secretary’s Office - Weatherboard & Fibro Roof -Chapman Street F $1,000 $1,000 Routine Showground - Small Store Shed F -- $250 Routine Showground - Toilet Block - Southern - Brick - Chapman Street G $3,000 $250 Routine Showground - Toilet Block - Western - Brick - Chapman Street G Nil $250 Routine Showground - Weatherboard Judge’s Box - Chapman Street F $3,000 $250 Routine Showground - Disabled Toilets G Nil $250 Routine Showground - Jack Martins Bar G Nil $250 Routine Kiosk Netball Courts – Dungog V/G Nil $250 Routine Visitor Information Centre - Dowling Street V/G Nil $500 Routine Frank Robinson Park - Brick Toilet Block F $24,000 $250 Routine Waste Depot - Landfill Office G Nil $100 Routine Waste Depot – Recycling Shed V/G Nil $2000 Routine East Gresford School of Arts Hall - Park Street G $7,000 $500 Routine School of Arts - Toilet Block - Brick - Park Street F $2,000 $500 Routine Gresford Sporting Complex - Dressing Sheds - Weatherboard - Paterson Road F $5,000 $500 Routine Gresford Sporting Complex - Toilet Block/Storage – Brick G Nil $500 Routine School of Arts - Supper Room and Pre-school - Timber - Park Street G $2,000 $500 Routine Disabled Toilet – East Gresford V/G Nil $1,000 Routine

Dungog Shire Council Annual Report 2009/10 Page 24

Condition Estimate of Cost Estimate of Maintenance at End to Bring Annual Cost Program Site of to Satisfactory to Maintain for 2009/2010 2009/2010 Standard Standard (Current $ Value) (Current $ Value) Martins Creek School of Arts A.C. Hall - Cory Street G $30,000 $500 Routine Tennis Club House - Brick - Cory Street G Nil $250 Routine Paterson Court House Museum - King Street V/G $1,000 $500 Routine John Tucker Park - Toilet Block - Brick - G $4,000 $1,000 Routine Maitland Road Reserve - Toilet Block - Brick - King Street G Nil $250 Routine School of Arts Building - Brick – Duke Street F $10,000 $1,000 Routine Sportsground - Kiosk Grandstand - Brick - G Nil $250 Routine Webbers Creek Road Sportsground - Tennis Clubroom - Brick - F $30,000 $250 Routine Webbers Creek Road Showground - Toilet Blocks - Timber - P $30,000 $400 Routine Webbers Creek Road Vacy Toilet Block - Brick - Gresford Road F $3,500 $250 Routine Sportsground Amenities Block F $130,000 $800 Routine School of Arts – Weatherboard P $8,000 $500 Routine

Key: P – Poor F – Fair G – Good V/G – Very good

Maintenance work to Council’s Public Buildings and Utilities has been restricted to only work of an urgent nature or where there is a risk management factor involved. As reported in previous Annual Reports the majority of Council Buildings are in the high age group factor requiring constant repair and routine maintenance.

Councils' 2010-2013 Management Plan encompasses funding for the buildings based upon a priority ranking as determined by Council staff. Whilst funds are being programmed to at least maintain the buildings most affected, the liquidity position of Council does not allow for the significant funding of asset replacement reserves to enable renewal of the asset in the future

In 2007/08 Council revalued its buildings in accordance with fair value methods. Buildings owned or managed by Dungog Shire have a total asset value of $23.632m. In 2009/10 the written down value for Council buildings was calculated at $7.322m.

Dungog Shire Council Annual Report 2009/10 Page 25 CONDITION OF PUBLIC ROADS & BRIDGES

Urban Roads

Council funding for Urban Road maintenance is inadequate and will result in the continuing decline in the condition of the asset. The current level of funding allows for only minimal pavement rehabilitation works to be carried out. Pavements have a finite life and unless a program of pavement renewal (rehabilitation) is undertaken, the pavements will continue to fail.

There is 40 km of sealed urban pavement within the Shire which should be totally renewed over the next 40 years. Rehabilitation should therefore be undertaken at a rate of 1km/annum at an estimated cost (depending on the road width) of $470,000/annum.

The timely application of bitumen reseals to roads assists the pavement in achieving its maximum design life. Ideally, a sealed road should be resealed at least once every 7 to 10 years.

In order to achieve resealing at a rate of once in 10 years, the annual resealing allocation, for Urban Roads, would need to be approximately $375,000. However, due to the lack of funding for a significant rehabilitation programme, a large percentage of the network is significantly deteriorated and resealing works are not suitable treatments.

Rural Sealed Roads

Council is responsible for the maintenance of 278 km of sealed rural road, the bulk of which were established in the 1930’s. Much of the local road network has surpassed its design life.

Council’s own resources to maintain its sealed rural road network are inadequate and do not provide for renewal of the asset.

In order to reseal the network at a rate of once every 10 years, the annual resealing allocation would need to be approximately $1 million/yr.

The only path to gradual improvement in the network is to reinstate sufficient funding to allow pavement rehabilitation on a 30 year cycle. The cost of this is:-

278 x 430,000 = $3.98 million/yr 30

Self Help Strategy

To cease all upgrading and reconstruction on the rural road network and direct all the Council’s Federal Assistance Grant (road component) and 80% of the Federal Roads to Recovery Funding to rehabilitation. This will only meet 34% of the necessary allocation and allow for pavement rehabilitation on a 90 year cycle. Whilst the boost from Roads to Recovery is welcome, extra funding is still required for this type of work.

Rural Unsealed Roads

Council undertakes the maintenance of 273 km of unsealed rural roads, which was funded in 2009/10 at a rate of $1,344/km.

Typical levels of service that this level of funding provided include:

 Maintenance Grading - once every 2.1 years (average).  Gravelling

Council is experiencing increased pressure as a result of land development to extend the length of maintained unsealed roads. This is coupled by a community that is increasingly demanding a better level of service in this area.

Dungog Shire Council Annual Report 2009/10 Page 26 Local Bridges

Council is currently responsible for 116 bridges on local roads with a total length of 2291m.

A large percentage of these bridges (45% by length) are timber structures.

Typically these timber structures were built in the early 1930’s, were usually single lane and were designed for the traffic conditions of the day.

The combined factors of structure age, increasing traffic volumes, increasing legal traffic loads, diminishing reserves of large section timbers and inadequate maintenance funds are seeing the condition of Council’s bridge asset in general decline.

Bridges are critical components within any road network. A failed or substandard bridge can have dramatic effects upon the cost and efficiency of transport services within a community.

Unfortunately, Council can only afford to maintain its bridge asset at a rate of $20.67/m2 (deck area) per annum, where typically major timber bridge repairs cost in the order of $750 - $1000/m2 of deck area.

There are several bridges owned by other authorities which have load limits.

Condition for Estimate of Estimate of Maintenance Renewal/ Period Cost to Bring Annual Cost Program Capital to a to Maintain Expenditure Expenditure Asset Group 1/7/09 - 30/6/10 Satisfactory Standard Standard (current $ 1/7/09 - 1/7/09 - (current $ value) 30/6/10 30/6/10 value) Regional Roads (including Bridges and Unsatisfactory $7.54 million $558,000 $727,635 $1,646,125 Kerb and Gutter) Urban Roads (including Bridges, Footpaths, Kerb Unsatisfactory $5.04 million $160,000 $212,697 $56,548 and Gutter) Rural Sealed Roads (including Causeways, Unsatisfactory $21.4 million $915,000 $989,812 $1,217,070 Footpaths, Kerb and Gutter) Rural Unsealed Roads (including Bridges and Unsatisfactory $6.3 million $190,000 $500,025 $471,906 Causeways) Summary Unsatisfactory $42.79 million $1.823 million $2.430 million $3.391 million

Dungog Shire Council Annual Report 2009/10 Page 27

CONDITION OF STORMWATER DRAINAGE ASSETS

Council manages six towns and villages. An Asset Collection Program was completed in 2007/08 as the foundation to the establishment of the Stormwater Management Plan. The Stormwater Management Plan will progress as funds allow.

The condition assessment has estimated the remaining life of drainage assets for 2009/10 (excluding current improvements or extensions) as follows:

Current Replacement Written Down Current Depreciation Expense Cost Costs Clarence Town $508,625 $304,433 $4,756 Dungog $1,732,697 $533,129 $27,142 Gresford $81,353 $34,216 $809 Paterson $102,889 $39,302 $1023 TOTAL $2,425,564 $911,080 $33,730

Council’s maintenance expenditure for 2009/10 financial year which was used for clearing blockages and minor repair works was $3,954. This is significantly less than the $38,700 per annum required to maintain the system to a satisfactory standard.

The majority of deficiencies within Councils network relate to inadequate capacity and age. Many Sub-Catchments have significantly deteriorated assets. Hydraulic studies will be required for all major Sub-Catchments.

Significant drainage works were completed in 2009/10 at the Dungog Showground to reduce the nutrient transfer from the stockyards downstream.

Sub-Catchment Condition at Estimate of Cost Estimate of Cost Maintenance end 2009/10 to Raise to to Maintain Program 2009/10 Strategy Strategy Standard Standard URBAN AREA: DUNGOG Fosterton 3 Satisfactory 1,000 400 Nil Fosterton 2 Unsatisfactory 21,000 400 Nil Fosterton 1 Unsatisfactory 11,000 400 Nil Station Unsatisfactory 42,000 1,000 Nil Myles Unsatisfactory 100,000 1,000 Nil Lord Satisfactory 100,000 1,000 Nil Showground Unsatisfactory 900,000 4,000 Nil Hooke Satisfactory 600,000 4,000 Nil Jones Satisfactory 42,000 1,000 Nil Chapman Unsatisfactory 42,000 600 Nil Comhl Unsatisfactory 21,000 200 Nil Common Satisfactory 32,000 400 Nil Dowling Satisfactory Nil 200 Nil Industrial Satisfactory Nil 200 Nil Melbee Satisfactory Nil 200 Nil Drovers Unsatisfactory 30,000 400 Nil

Dungog Shire Council Annual Report 2009/10 Page 28

Sub-Catchment Condition at Estimate of Cost Estimate of Cost Maintenance end 2009/10 to Raise to to Maintain Program 2009/10 Strategy Strategy Standard Standard URBAN AREA: MARTINS CREEK Station Satisfactory 10,000 400 Nil Osmond Creek Satisfactory 20,000 800 Nil Newcastle City Satisfactory 20,000 800 Nil Martins Creek Unsatisfactory 40,000 800 Nil URBAN AREA: PATERSON King Unsatisfactory 20,000 1,000 Nil Duke Unsatisfactory 20,000 600 Nil Main Unsatisfactory 60,000 600 Nil William Unsatisfactory 20,000 600 Nil URBAN AREA: GRESFORD Short Unsatisfactory 15,000 400 Nil Durham Unsatisfactory 15,000 2,000 Nil Orana Unsatisfactory 10,000 2,000 Nil Park Satisfactory Nil 400 Nil URBAN AREA: CLARENCE TOWN Hiller Unsatisfactory 30,000 400 Nil Town Unsatisfactory 40,000 1,000 Nil Unsatisfactory 500,000 5,000 Nil Unsatisfactory 100,000 1,000 Nil Bridge Satisfactory 10,000 400 Nil King Satisfactory 20,000 400 Nil Hart Satisfactory 4,000 100 Nil URBAN AREA: VACY Vacy North Satisfactory Nil 400 Nil Vacy South Satisfactory Nil 200 Nil

Dungog Shire Council Annual Report 2009/10 Page 29

SUMMARY OF AMOUNTS INCURRED IN RELATION TO LEGAL PROCEEDINGS

During the reporting period, Council incurred Legal Expenses of $117,123.

Legal Costs – Legal Actions Defended

Amount Action Result Incurred Ferguson $8,776 Class 1 Appeal Finalised B W & E T Clarke $13,954 Unlawful Bottle Shop Finalised Railcorp $43,681 Commencement of Class IV Ongoing Action Total $66,411

Council’s other legal costs incurred during the financial year are detailed below to reflect the total legal costs incurred. These costs are grouped into five (5) categories to assist the community in understanding where the Council’s funds are allocated:

Legal Costs – Corporate - $13,760. A majority of these costs are recoverable from defaulting ratepayers.

Legal Costs – Planning legal expenses general - $30,226 being:

- Advice on Draft Section 94 Contributions Plan - $19,030 - General Planning advice on Transition Zones - $11,196

Legal Costs - Enforcement of Local Government Regulation - $2,054

Legal Costs – Engineering – contractual advice - $2,016

Legal Costs – Water & Wastewater transfer to Hunter Water Corporation - $2,656

Dungog Shire Council Annual Report 2009/10 Page 30

MONEYS EXPENDED ON MAYORAL & COUNCILLORS FEES/PROVISION OF FACILITIES & COUNCILLOR EXPENSES

In addition to the Mayoral Fee of $11,826 and Councillors Fees of $63,360 expenditure in relation to the provision of facilities and Councillors expenses amounted to $19,267. This figure includes:

 Council Elections $ Nil  Code of Conduct Investigations Nil  Provision of dedicated office equipment allocated to Councillors Nil  Conference and Seminar Expenses $ 3,910  Training & skill development $ Nil  Interstate travel by Councillors Nil  Overseas visits by Councillors Nil  Expenses of any spouse, partner accompanying a Councillor Nil  Expenses involved in the provision of Childcare Nil  Mobile Phone and Internet Costs Nil  Travelling $ 11,107  Meals & Sustenance $ 1,703  Delegates Expenses $ 2,547 Total $ 19,267

Council’s Policy for the payment of expenses and provision of facilities was reviewed on 17 November 2009 and includes the following:

1. Council will pay to or on behalf of its Councillors reasonable allowances towards their necessary out of pocket expenses for conveyance, sustenance, travelling and accommodation for:

(a) Meetings of Council, or the meetings of any Committee of the Council;

(b) Upon inspections within the area, provided such inspections are undertaken in compliance with resolutions of the Council;

(c) Upon business of the Council outside the area in compliance with a resolution of the Council;

(d) To and from the periodical conference of the Shires Association of New South Wales or of the Australian Council of Local Government Associations or of any district associations of Councils or to and from any meeting of any regional council or of any regional development committee; and

(e) In such cases as may be prescribed, to and from the periodical conferences or meetings of such other associations or organisations as may be prescribed.

2. A Council vehicle will be made available for the use of Councillors wherever possible. However should a Council vehicle not be available and Councillors are required to provide their own private transport for authorised Council business, then Councillors will be paid an allowance for travelling at the following rates based on the allowance under the Local Government State Award. As at 1 November 2009:  Under 2.5L $0.64 per kilometre  2.5L & over $0.73 per kilometre

3. Where an elected member lives outside the Council area, Council will pay an allowance for travelling based on the aforementioned mileage allowance from the Council boundary to the Council related activity along the most direct route from the Councillor’s place of residence.

4. Council will provide the following facilities and services for the use of the Mayor for Council related activities:

(a) an office at the Council Administration building; (b) secretarial and administrative support; (c) stationery and office supplies, including fax, email, laptop and mobile phone etc.

Dungog Shire Council Annual Report 2009/10 Page 31

STATEMENT OF SENIOR STAFF EMPLOYED

During 2009/2010 one officer of Council was classified as Senior Staff pursuant to Section 332(2) of the Local Government Act, being the General Manager.

The total amount payable in respect of the employment of senior staff for the period (including the salary component, employer and employee superannuation, performance payments, provision of vehicle and fringe benefits tax) was $156,184.

MAJOR CONTRACTS AWARDED FOR GOODS & SERVICES IN EXCESS OF $150,000

Name Payment No. of Contract Nature of Goods or Services Approved Jobs Period by Council (Years) Burns Earthmoving Pty Ltd $367,024 Various One Plant Hire

Road & Rail Civil Pty Ltd $277,877 Various One Plant Hire

Waeger Constructions $212,465 Various One Bridge Construction

SRS Roads $771,562 One One Bitumen

Quarry Products $788,891 One N/A Road Base & Aggregate

J R Richards & Son $490,938 Various Six Waste & Recycling Collection

Nviroscope $173,751 One N/A Roadworks

GW & GJ Trappel $155,277 Various One Plant Hire

BUSHFIRE HAZARD REDUCTION PROGRAMS

For the period July 2009 to June 2010 addition to hazard reduction carried out by rural fire service brigade personnel and landowners, regular mowing of sporting grounds and reserves, slashing of road verges throughout the Shire was undertaken by Council.

Dungog Shire Council Annual Report 2009/10 Page 32

PROMOTION OF SERVICES & ACCESS TO SERVICES FOR PEOPLE WITH DIVERSE CULTURAL & LINGUISTIC BACKGROUNDS

Ethnic Population

The demographics for Dungog Shire show that 88.8% of the people were born in Australia, with another 4.8% born in another English speaking country. The most common country where people were born was United Kingdom followed by New Zealand and Germany.

Residents of Dungog LGA who were born overseas

1996 2001 2006 316 380 269 (4.0% of LGA Population (4.8% of LGA Population) (3.6% of LGA Population) Source: 1996, 2001and 2006 Census

There are no services based in Dungog LGA specifically for people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds; however, there are a wide range of specialist outreach services within the Shire. There are no concentrations of ethnic person or NESB housing within the LGA. There are no perceived barriers to accessing Council’s services from this target group.

Aboriginal/Torres Strait Islander Population

Dungog Local Government Area has a comparatively small population of persons who identify as being of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Island origin. The population of indigenous persons has increased significantly since the 1991 Census. There are no concentrations of Aboriginal population in any particular locality in the LGA.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Population

1996 2001 2006 140 157 174 (1.8% of LGA Population) (1.98% of LGA Population) (2.2% of LGA Population)

Despite the small and scattered nature of the Shire's non English-speaking and Aboriginal/Torres Strait Islander population Council has identified specific issues requiring strategies for people in these population groups. The strategies are outlined in the relevant sections of Council's Community/Social Plan, 2009 - 2014. Of the total population in the Dungog LGA 2.2% were indigenous persons compared with 2.3% indigenous persons in Australia.

WORK CARRIED OUT ON PRIVATE LAND & ANY SUBSIDIES RELATED TO THIS WORK

During the period 1st July 2009 to 30th June 2010, all private works were undertaken in accordance with Section 67 of the Local Government Act 1993. Council did not resolve to subsidise any works.

Dungog Shire Council Annual Report 2009/10 Page 33

TOTAL AMOUNT CONTRIBUTED OR OTHERWISE GRANTED UNDER SECTION 356

Donations and Expenditure under Section 356 amounted to $12,084 and was made up as follows:

$ Donations & Contributions - Hunter Valley Research Foundation 1,545 - Gresford & District Agricultural Society 250 - Dungog Arts Society 500 - Dungog High School Citizenship Award 70 - Fee Refunds 532 - International Disability Day 122 - Anzac Day 216 - Dungog Gresford Hoof & Hook 100 - Arts Upper Hunter 6,207 - Australia Day 2,342 - Variety Special Children’s Christmas Party 200 Total 12,084

STATEMENT OF HUMAN RESOURCES ACTIVITIES UNDERTAKEN BY COUNCIL

Staff Training

Training was provided in accordance with Council policy stated hereunder:

1. Training is a means by which employees can become more efficient and effective in the performance of their work, which directly assists in the delivery of services to the community within the Shire of Dungog.

2. Training is considered part of an employee’s normal duties and responsibilities and access to such will be in line with the Equal Employment Opportunity policy.

3. Training will be participative and tailored to meet the needs of Councillors, individuals and groups within the organisation.

4. Training will address both the personal development and skills acquisition elements of employees’ growth.

5. Training is enjoyable and will lead to demonstrable changes in personal and organisational behaviour if the concepts are followed up by both employees and supervisors in the workplace.

6. Training and development of employees, including those who may subsequently leave Council’s employ, will be regarded as being one of service to Local Government generally. These benefits will be reciprocal if Council employs from other Councils or other businesses who have been engaged in staff training programs.

7. The success of the organisation depends on having well trained and skilled Councillors and employees in order that Council may deliver the best and most efficient services to the community.

Council’s financial contribution to the Hunter Council’s training manager has greatly assisted Council’s with co-ordination of regional training programs.

Dungog Shire Council Annual Report 2009/10 Page 34

During the 2009/2010 year staff participated in a diverse range of job related training programs. Council’s staff were provided with training courses which include:

Computer Software (Microsoft Programs, Authority Modules, Local-e and Trim), OH&S Induction, RTA Training, Traffic Control Stop/Slow Bat, Workcover Construction Induction, Confined Spaces, Planning workshops, Fair Value & Asset Revaluation, Chemical Course and Rates Modules, Government Information (Public Access) Act – GIPA, Surveying, Public Health and Event Management.

ACTIVITIES UNDERTAKEN TO IMPLEMENT EEO MANAGEMENT PLAN

The EEO Management Plan was adopted by Council on 27th June 1994 in conjunction with the Management Plan 1994-97. The purpose of Council’s EEO Policy is:

(i) to eliminate discrimination or harassment in employment on the grounds of race, sex, marital status, physical impairment, intellectual impairment and sexuality, and compulsory age retirement. These grounds are specified in the NSW Anti-Discrimination Act which binds Councils.

(ii) to promote Equal Employment Opportunity for women, members of non-English speaking backgrounds, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, and people with disabilities.

No problems of an EEO related nature arose during the 2009/2010 year. Council provides structured training to staff on a regular cycle to reinforce awareness of Council’s Policy.

Dungog Shire Council Annual Report 2009/10 Page 35

EXTERNAL BODIES WHICH EXERCISED FUNCTIONS DELEGATED BY COUNCIL

During the year, Council delegated the following functions to external bodies:

Function Body Enforcement of relevant legislation concerning the Mid North Weight of Loads Group overloading of vehicles on Regional Roads and local roads within the Shire. Care, control and management of the James James Theatre Community Centre Theatre Community Centre. Committee Care, control and management of the Clarence Clarence Town Community Centre Town Community Centre. Committee Care, control and management of the Clarence Clarence Town School of Arts Committee Town School of Arts Hall. Care, control and management of the Gresford Gresford School of Arts Committee School of Arts Hall. Care, control and management of the Paterson Paterson School of Arts Committee School of Arts Hall. Care, control and management of the Vacy School Vacy School of Arts Committee of Arts Hall. Care, control and management of the Martins Martins Creek School of Arts Committee Creek School of Arts Hall. Care, control and management of the Dungog Showground & Recreation Reserve Showground reserve. Management Committee Care, control and management of the Paterson Paterson Sportsground Committee Sportsground. Care, control and management of the Gresford Gresford Sporting Complex Committee Sporting Complex. Care, control and management of the Clarence Clarence Town Recreation Reserve Town Recreation Reserve Committee Care, control and management of the Vacy Vacy Sportsground Committee Sportsground Care, control and management of Aged Persons Alison Court Management Committee Units. Care, control and management of Pilchers Pilchers Reserve Committee Reserve

COMPANIES IN WHICH COUNCIL HELD A CONTROLLING INTEREST

Council did not hold a controlling interest in any company during 2009/10.

Dungog Shire Council Annual Report 2009/10 Page 36

PARTNERSHIPS, CO-OPERATIVES OR OTHER JOINT VENTURES TO WHICH THE COUNCIL WAS A PARTY

During the year Council was involved in the following:

 Newcastle Regional Library Advisory Committee for assistance in the provision of library services within the Shire.

 Hunter and Central Coast Noxious Plants Advisory Committee for assistance in the control of noxious plants.

 Waste Management Association of Australia – Hunter Branch for assistance in issues dealing with waste operation, treatment and disposal.

 Hunter and Central Coast Regional Environmental Management Strategy Committee.

 Hunter Councils Inc. Council has an interest in Hunter Councils Inc along with other Hunter Member Councils. The activities of this organisation are not controlled by any one Council. Hunter Councils Inc was established to improve the quality and efficiency of Local Government services throughout the Hunter Region.

 Hunter Councils Ltd. Council has an interest in Hunter Councils Ltd and is a Shareholder. The activities of Hunter Councils Ltd involve the establishment and running of a records repository at Thornton.

 Association of Mining Related Councils Inc.

 Arts Upper Hunter

 Mid North Weight of Loads Group - Enforcement of relevant legislation concerning the overloading of vehicles on Regional Roads and local roads within the Shire.

RATES & CHARGES WRITTEN OFF

Rates and Charges written off for the year amounted to $169,430.95 and comprised the following:

 Mandatory Pensioner Rebates under Section 575 of the Local Government Act 1993: $168,947.99 (55% reimbursed to Council by the State Government).

 Postponed Rates and Charges written off under Section 595 of the Local Government Act 1993: $44.91.

 Abandonments – small debts $438.05

DETAILS OF OVERSEAS VISITS UNDERTAKEN

No overseas visits were undertaken during the year by Councillors and others representing the Council.

Dungog Shire Council Annual Report 2009/10 Page 37

ACTIVITIES UNDERTAKEN TO DEVELOP & PROMOTE SERVICES & PROGRAMS THAT PROVIDE FOR THE NEEDS OF CHILDREN

1. COMMUNITY PLAN TARGET GROUP – CHILDREN & FAMILIES

Children and families are an important part of the Dungog Local Government Area. There are 2244 individual families with 56.7% of these with children. Most families in our LGA are two-parent families (44.5%) with 14% of these households receiving a weekly income of less than $1059. There are 1703 children aged between 0-14 years in our LGA. The provision of services for children and families is reasonable however the gaps in service provision for these target groups are addressed in the Action Plan. The following objectives for children are set out in the Community/Social Plan:

 Advocate for improvements in provision of services according to identified needs.  Provide ongoing liaison and professional support to agencies providing services to children  Provide and maintain safe play areas in all catchment areas  To promote and assist in the expansion of educational facilities for pre-school aged children  To ensure that provision is made for socially and economically disadvantaged children  Support the development of Family Day care, Vacation Care and Out of Hours Child Care.  A Child Care facility is in operation in Dungog and Council staff have also undertaken a series of meetings with a developers architects for the design and construction of another Childcare Centre in Clarence Town.

2. PROVISION OF SAFE PLAY EQUIPMENT

Throughout 2009/2010 monthly maintenance checks were carried out on all playground equipment in the Shire.

3. ASSISTANCE TO PRE-SCHOOLS

Council owns and maintains the premises occupied by Clarence Town and Gresford Pre-schools.

4. PROVISION OF BABY HEALTH FACILITIES

Council-owned premises at Paterson are provided free of charge for the provision of baby health facilities.

5. SUPPORT TO DUNGOG FAMILY DAY CARE SCHEME

Council is supportive of Family Day Care as one form of formal child care available in the Shire. There is one long day care facility located in the Dungog township.

Council has maintained a liaison with the Shire’s Family Day Care Scheme as a collection point for information packs for prospective carers and users of the service.

6. FAMILIES NSW

Families NSW continues to provide services within the Shire. Both non-Government organisations and service providers work in partnership with local schools holding workshops, celebrate National weeks and providing supported playgroups throughout the Shire.

7. AFTER SCHOOL HOURS CARE

After School Hours Care was previously established and managed by Dungog Shire Community Centre in various areas throughout the LGA. Due to insufficient numbers After School Hours Care in Dungog and Clarence Town were discontinued and the Vacy and Paterson programmes were taken over by independent operators.

Dungog Shire Council Annual Report 2009/10 Page 38

PROGRAMS UNDERTAKEN BY COUNCIL TO PROMOTE SERVICES & ACCESS TO SERVICES FOR RESIDENTS & OTHER USERS

Service Promotional Activity Undertaken Suggested Future Activities Public Order & Safety Fire Protection  Promotional material distributed to local schools Ongoing. and groups.  Training modules provided to Brigade members.  Provide advice including requirements for annual fire safety certification to operators of venues providing public entertainment. Animal Control  Information on proper care and control of animals is  Publicise Regional initiatives. supplied as required or at owner’s request.  Enact Companion Animals  Advertise Council’s Ranger and pound service and legislation. provide information on requirements of the  Participate in Regional Companion Animals Act through the local press. initiatives as they arise.  Local Government Companion Animals link provided on website.  Companion Animals brochure provided with rates notice. Enforcement of  Awareness of regulations is provided as requests Ongoing. Local Government are reviewed. Regulations  Maintain registers of approvals/orders required by Local Government Act. Emergency  Development of Emergency Risk Management Plan Combined Lower Hunter Displan Services completed. complete. Minor reviews being  Standardisation of DISPLAN continued. undertaken. Health Administration &  Carry out regular inspections of hairdressing,  Ongoing. Inspections beauty and skin penetration premises and provide information. Food Control  Carry out regular inspections at a frequency based  Ongoing inspections. on potential risk and provide advice and  Provide food safety seminars educational materials at that time. as required.  Food Standards link provided on Council website.  Provided food seminars to owners and operators of food premises. Insect/Vermin  Promotional information displayed in Council’s  Ongoing. Control Administration Building. Noxious Plants  Posters and literature on public display in  General brochure on noxious Administration Building. weeds for distribution in the  Noxious Weeds Officer submits articles to Landcare Shire to raise community for publication. awareness.  Attend local field days.  Articles in local Town &  Noxious weed information available on Council’s Country Magazine. website.  Additional field days on specific  Quarterly articles in Town & Country Magazine. weeds in problem areas.  Promote Regional Strategy.  Establish Local Weed Committee Health Centres  Promotion carried out by Area Health Service.  Ongoing. On-site  Carry out regular inspections of septic systems.  Ongoing. Wastewater  Provide advice and information at time of inspection Management and in response to inquiries. Systems  Provide links and information on Council’s website.

Dungog Shire Council Annual Report 2009/10 Page 39

Service Promotional Activity Undertaken Suggested Future Activities Community Services & Education Planning for  Comprehensive advertising throughout the Shire to Repeat on bi-annual. Next due Community Services encourage residents to participate in public 2010. consultations, letter box drops, letters to community organisations and advertising in local media. Community Builders  Advertising the Scheme in the local media, through Continue to promote Community direct correspondence to organisations and through Builders through various community meetings. community groups.  Assisting groups with developing applications, interpreting guidelines and establishing projects Regular grant evenings provided through grant information evenings. annually. Housing & Community Amenities Housing  Vacancies in Council’s aged units promoted. Ongoing. Planning &  Public consultation on planning issues.  Ongoing as required. Development  Address public gatherings on planning issues.  Continue to promote  Provision of Public Exhibition Documents to community input into strategic respective Ward Councillors. planning processes at specific  Public exhibition of proposed development in stages of the process. accordance with Council policy  Preparation of Local Environmental Plans including Transition Zone Amendment & Lifestyle Rezoning Applications.  Preparation & Revision of Local Area Plans.  Ongoing liaison with community on planning issues including Tillegra Dam.  Preparation & Revision of Development Control Plans Domestic Waste &  Advertised recycling services available at the  Promote waste diversion Waste Management Landfill Materials Recycling Centre in the local program and recycling facility. Collection press and through signage.  Increase service area for  Advertise Drummuster depot through press. domestic waste.  Advertise oil collection program.  Increase waste diversion  Promote kerbside recycling collection service programs in the commercial through press pamphlet drop and bin stickers. and non-rateable sector. Street Cleaning  Public Action Request System. Act as required.  No complaints received. No complaints received. Sanitary Services  Provide information and facilitate connection to Promotion of septic tank sewer in Clarence Town. installations by community education. Urban Stormwater  Commenced Showground Stormwater Project Showground Stormwater Project Drainage  Promotion of Bennett Park Water Tank completed. Education with respect to resident, Council & Dept Lands responsibilities. Public Cemeteries  Provision of adequate signage. All programs are ongoing.  Maintain accurate records for public information. Public  Provision of adequate signage.  Include in Shire Signage Conveniences  Improvement ongoing. Strategy.  Continued improvement

Dungog Shire Council Annual Report 2009/10 Page 40

Service Promotional Activity Undertaken Suggested Future Activities Environmental  Participation in Streamwatch activities.  All programs are ongoing. Protection  State of the Environment Reporting.  Council houses Catchment  Ongoing liaison with Landcare Groups. Management Authority  Carry out septic system inspections and provide Community Support Officer. advice and written information. CSO role to provide information to the public and  Distribute water saving device information. facilitate Natural Resource Distribute newsletter on septic inspection program Management Projects. and best management practices for septic system to

all owners.  Participation in Clean Up Australia & National Tree Day Programs.  Public display of environmental material.  Liaison with Landcare groups to support community projects on public land.  Implement work permit system for contractors Recreation & Culture Public Libraries  Book Week promotion Ongoing.  School holiday educational program implemented.  Australian Simultaneous Storytime.  Children’s Storytime and Craft Community Buildings  Council’s community buildings are managed by  Ongoing. Committees of Council. These are responsible for  Maintenance of up to date the publicity regarding fees and charges and records of contact people. booking procedures in their respective communities.  Prepare plans of  Contact people for the various buildings are management to provide focus available from Council. and direction. Swimming Pools  Public advertisement of fees and charges and pool Ongoing. opening/closing times.  Improvements undertaken at both pools utilising RLCIP funding including signage. Parks & Gardens  Signage of parks, gardens and recreational facilities  Ongoing. (including  Encourage community participation in management  To comply with the adopted Sportsgrounds) of parks and reserves policy of Council for all signage in remote areas.  Development of Shire brochure. Capital Assistance  Public advertisement and letters to community  Repeat for future rounds of Program sporting organisations regarding availability of the the Program. Program.  Information evenings.  Assisting groups with developing applications,  Follow up successful projects. interpreting guidelines and establishing projects. Mining, Manufacturing & Construction Building Control  Provision of information regarding: Ongoing. o Building regulations o Septic/transpiration areas.  Work with community in regards to new housing code. Transport & Communication Local Roads  Provision/upgrading of local road signage. Ongoing prioritisation of needs.  Ongoing implementation of the Rural Addressing system. Bridges  Provision/upgrading of signage on local bridges. Ongoing. Traffic Facilities &  Quarterly releases - road safety issues.  Ongoing. Safety  Kids & Cobwebs Bike Ride held.  Expand Pedalfest in future  Pedalfest years.

Dungog Shire Council Annual Report 2009/10 Page 41

Service Promotional Activity Undertaken Suggested Future Activities Economic Affairs Caravan Parks &  Shire wide facilities were promoted at the Rosehill  Improved tracking of Camping Areas and Maitland 4WD, Caravan and Camping shows enquiries and bookings  Improved website presence on totaltravel.com with  Improved presence on direct links for enquiries Dungog and Barrington tops  Participation in Barrington Tops campaign media websites launch highlighting jetties and boat ramp  Editorial possibilities with ship  Establishment of RV friendly facilities and marketing building history campaign with Central Catchment Management Authority.  Inclusion on Lands department website for caravan parks and camping areas with the acceptance of a new user permit. Tourism & Area  Expansion of existing events in the Shire such as  Improved on-line booking Promotion the Vacy Village Carnival, Gresford Billy Cart derby system and Dungog Film Festival attracted large crowds.  More promotion within the film  Promotion through Country Link for the town and industry as a location for film Festival filming  Launch of the Barrington Tops Glovebox guide  improved distribution of which features 14 local businesses events information  Completion of the www.visitdungog.com.au website  increased operator with links to TNSW, HRTO and Barrington Tops involvement in promotional sites activities on a co-op basis  Launch of new outdoor promotional material for BT campaign  Involvement in the HRTO media launch featuring the Barrington Tops

Industrial  Promotion of the Dungog Business Investment  Increased activity in Development and Fund with Hunter Water and DSRD marketing/selling commercial Employment  Increased participation from Hunter Region BEC in land for development of new Promotion business advice and peer support services or existing businesses  Completed economic development community  Support the establishment of strategies for Dungog and Clarence Town business networking functions  Completed Dungog Township Marketing Plan  Establish customer service training program with township marketing plan project Real Estate  Partial sale of Common Road land  Work with Land Use strategy Development to promote targeted developments  Complete necessary boundary adjustments to finalise Melbee subdivision  Target ACF site for suitable development

Dungog Shire Council Annual Report 2009/10 Page 42

Service Promotional Activity Undertaken Suggested Future Activities General Community  Sponsorship of National Weeks or Days.  Ongoing. Promotion Activities  Local Government Week.  Target areas of need & Senior Citizens Week.  education programs  Promotion of Australia day activities.  Citizenship ceremonies.  Education programs in  Youth Week schools

 National Tree Day  Community awareness &  Clean Up Australia Day promotion of service  International Day for People with a Disability providers/organisations  International Women’s Day within LGA. Corporate Promotion  Sponsorship of Local Government Week as a  Ongoing. of Council community education exercise.  Implement improved  Promotion of Councils as efficient and effective in customer service initiatives order to satisfy community needs and as resources allow. expectations.  Development of alliance  Participate in Hunter Councils Customer Service with Dungog High School on Group. promotions of careers in  Review Council’s correspondence and file tracking Local Government. systems.  Improved online access to  Ongoing development of Council’s website. Council data.

Dungog Shire Council Annual Report 2009/10 Page 43

IMPLEMENTATION OF ACCESS & EQUITY STRATEGIES AS SET OUT IN THE COMMUNITY PLAN

All Target Groups

In line with NSW Government’s Social Justice Directions Statement, the four key principles of Equity, Access, Participation and Rights under-pin the development and implementation of the Dungog Shire ‘s Community Social Plan.

The plan is based on these principles and include action plans for the seven mandatory target groups as determined by the State Government which are Children, Youth, Older people, Women, People with Disabilities, Indigenous people and People from Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Backgrounds.

Dungog Shire’s age profile reflects significant growth in certain target groups including the 50+ years age group. There is a decrease in primary school aged children highlighting the major change in growth of young families in the Shire with a noticeable decline in the 20 to 39 years (10.2% of population) indicating the need for that age group to leave the shire for further education and employment opportunities.

Council’s Community Project Officer provides support to the providers of services of the mandatory target groups through regular attendance of meetings, assistance with grant applications, provision of council services, planning and development consultations. The continual change of the resident population requires Council and service providers to maintain an ongoing relationship.

Children 0-14 Years

Playgrounds

Council has carried out ongoing safety inspections of children’s playground, with repairs and maintenance issues addressed as required. Playgrounds are in all catchment areas and have been maintained in a mown and tidy condition.

Council endeavours to adhere to sun smart practices with the installation of sun shades over existing playgrounds. Maintenance of playground sun shades has become an issue with the recent increase of vandalism; this vandalism has hindered the installation of shelters for other existing playgrounds.

Family Day Care

Council has identified in the 2009-2014 Community/Social Plan the need to develop an effective Scheme in the LGA. The acquisition of sufficient carers is still a large barrier to expanding the service as the demand for places has increased. Council has continued to provide office space for the Scheme in its Dungog Information and Neighbourhood Service building and is a collection point for information for people wishing to become a carer or user of the service.

Early Childhood Health

With the recent change of health’s direction and the new structure of Hunter New England Health, Council’s Community Project Officer has maintained ongoing liaison with the Community Health staff regarding provision and access of early childhood services within the Shire. Council has continued to make premises available free of charge for a baby health clinic in Paterson and provision for the Clarence Town clinic in the Community Centre. A strategic aim of the Community plan is to ensure the continuation of current health services and Council provides an opportunity for Community consultation regarding health services through the Dungog Shire Health Forum.

Dungog Shire Council Annual Report 2009/10 Page 44

Pre-Schools

Within our LGA we have 4 preschools and 7 playgroups. Council has continued to provide premises for pre-schools at Clarence Town and East Gresford.

Clarence Town and Paterson have had significant increases in population over the last ten year period reflecting the need to expand existing places in the local Preschools. Clarence Town increased their operating days to 5 and Paterson has secured additional funding to maintain their 2 year old placements. Professional support has also been provided to the Committees of Shire Preschools on an ongoing basis.

Young People 14-25 Years

Adolescent and Family Counselling

Dungog Information & Neighbourhood Service provides the counselling service operating two days per week, located in Bram Cottage, Dungog.

Activities for Young People

Council has continued co-coordinating Youth Week activities within the Shire with a Youth Art Expo and Art and Photography related workshops.

Clarence Town, Dungog and Gresford have skatepark facilities in their local area. Currently Paterson are investigating funding options to construct a skate park.

Entertainment and recreation options for Youth are identified issues in Councils Community/Social Plan, with Council providing ongoing support and consultation. A monthly Youth Interagency is held with various youth based services being actively involved to address issues and options available for young people in the Shire.

Support to Dungog and District Youth Service

The Dungog and District Youth Service have established quarterly youth activities. Gresford Youth Centre is currently operating under the auspice of Gresford Community Group. The Youth Service currently co-ordinate Better Futures Projects in the High School on a term basis. A Girls Youth Group is held once a month in the Bram Cottage.

Older People

The older people (55+) of our LGA comprise 25.5% of the Shires population highlighting the need for increasing community support for these people to stay at home or accessing appropriate hostel and nursing home.

Dungog LGA provides a large network of aged care and health services addressing a range of needs. Council coordinates the Dungog Shire Health Forum which provides an opportunity for the community to liaise with Hunter New England Health to lobby for health services or access to health services within our Shire.

Accommodation

Dungog Council maintains 20 single self care units located within walking distance of the shopping centre. Dungog Community has built a Retirement Living facility with 68 beds ranging from self care, high care, dementia and respite. Investigations have taken place to provide self care accommodation outside of Dungog township by Dungog & District Retirement Living Inc who have undertaken discussions in the communities of Clarence Town and Gresford. The community of Gresford had formed a committee to investigate future options, whereas the Clarence Town Community has not progressed the matter further. One of the major hurdles is accessing suitable land in proximity to services.

Dungog Shire Council Annual Report 2009/10 Page 45

People with Disabilities

There are a significant number of people (9.1% ABS Census) within our LGA who have some form of disability, with a growing number of children within this group. A key issue in Council’s Social plan is acceptance of people with a disability within the community and access within the community.

There are a number of service providers within the LGA including Dungog and District Neighbourcare Inc who provide a wide range of programs to support people with a disability to live independently. A Local Disability Support Officer is now located in Dungog monthly and Dungog Shire Disability Support Group has also been established.

Council has an established Access Committee that involves members of the community and Council. Council’s Community Project Officer attends the Dungog and District Community Care Forum, the Dungog Shire Disability Support group annual meetings and the establishment of disability accommodation committee.

People from Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Backgrounds

A history of ethnic settlement has been included in Council’s revised Community Profile, however no other access and equity strategies in Council’s Community/Social Plan specifically targeting people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds have been implemented at this stage.

People Identifying As Being of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander Origin

Council’s revised Community Profile includes a Koori history of the Dungog Shire, as well as expanded demographic data on characteristics of the Koori community.

Women

There are a few specific services available for women in the Dungog LGA. Those services that are available are provided through the Dungog Information Neighbourhood Service and the Youth Family Counsellor, with general services through Dungog Hospital. The demographics of the Community Social Plan indicate that women and men are within equal proportions in most age groups of the LGA. However women still need to leave the area in search of work, further education and some services. Council has identified the lack of local work opportunities, availability of childcare and access to services for women in the Community Plan.

Men

A break down of population statistics for each gender and age group has been included in Council’s Profile and occupation by age and gender in the Council’s Community Social plan. No specific strategies are outlined in Community Social Plan for men at this stage.

Active and Passive Recreation

Council has continued to maintain the areas under its control for active and passive recreation, with improvements carried out as resources allow as per its Parks and Reserves Improvement Program. Management Committees with community and Council representation are in place for all active and some passive recreation areas, and are supported as required. Plans of Management for Bridge and Wharf Reserves were developed. Plans of Management for a number of Council Halls have been developed in Draft format.

Council has again facilitated applications to the Department of Sport and Recreation Capital Assistance Program.

Dungog Shire Council Annual Report 2009/10 Page 46

Community Buildings

Council has continued to ensure that all Shire communities have access to at least one community hall or building through ongoing maintenance and through improvements as resources allow. Management Committees with Council and community representation are in place for all buildings.

Health and Welfare

Expressed Community Need

Through the auspice of the Dungog Shire Health Forum Council has continued to maintain an active approach to addressing health issues in the Shire.

Professional Support to Service Providers

During the reporting period Council has acted as an independent member on interviewing panels for a number of health and welfare related positions and has provided information/assistance in relation to grant applications.

Liaison with Service Providers

Council has endeavoured to maintain an ongoing liaison with providers of health and welfare services in the Dungog Shire through the Dungog Health Forum and ongoing interaction with staff from Dungog Information and Neighbourhood Service. Support to various service providers has also been provided on specific issues as requested.

Community Profile

An overview of issues relating to health and welfare has been included in Council’s Community Profile.

Community Builders Programme

Council has supported the 2009/2010 round of the programme, and has assisted in the development of applications which address expressed community needs in health and welfare. One application was successful in 2009/10.

Heritage

Heritage Conservation

Council has continued to provide premises for the storage and display of historical collections in Dungog, Paterson and Clarence Town, and has continued to provide resources and office space for a visiting Heritage Officer.

Community Profile

A historical overview of towns, villages and localities in the Dungog Shire has been included in Council’s Community Profile, as well as a section specifically devoted to Shire heritage activities.

Environment

Council assists in the preservation of the Shire’s natural environment through the provision of services including: sanitary, garbage and kerbside recycling, ranger and pound services, inspection of septic tanks and public and commercial premises, enforcement of Local Government and various environmental regulations.

Council staff also provide an annual State of the Environment Report and liaise with other Council’s and State authorities in relation to natural resource management and environmental protection issues.

Environmental issues and potential impacts are also considered when assessing all proposed development in accordance with the requirements of Council’s Local Environmental Plan and relevant planning legislation and instruments.

Dungog Shire Council Annual Report 2009/10 Page 47

Economic Development

The Dungog Business Investment Fund (DBIF) has attracted expressions of interest for business development proposals and continues to act as a stimulus for economic development activities in the Shire.

Tourism

The tourism sector has performed well with a marked improvement in visitor numbers to the information centre in Dungog and an overall increase in the number of people attending the various festivals held throughout the year. Camping and caravanning have seen resurgence in popularity and the number of visitors to the National Park and State Forest areas has returned to levels not seen for many years. Day visitation to the area, especially from Newcastle (and environs), has been steadily increasing and was best illustrated through the attendance at the street parade held in conjunction with the Dungog Film Festival.

Employment

In the Dungog LGA the most recent statistics indicate that the industry of employment is still dominated by the agriculture, forestry and fishing category accounting for 13.4% of 3459 persons employed. This represented a reduction of 4.4% of total employed persons in the previous 10 years.

The principle observations from an analysis of the business count data with the LGA are:

• Businesses based within the LGA comprise predominantly small operations with 1-4 employees

• There is a moderate share of medium-size firms (5-19 employees) particularly in:

. Agriculture, forestry and fishing . Retail trade . Accommodation, cafés and restaurants . Transport and storage . Property and business services

• The small number of large business operations is concentrated in:

. Accommodation, cafés and restaurants . Property and business services . Education . Health and community services

Dungog Shire Council Annual Report 2009/10 Page 48

INFORMATION RELATIVE TO THE IMPLEMENTATION OF NATIONAL COMPETITION POLICY

Category 1 Business Activities

Council has no identified Category 1 business activities.

Progress Category 2 Business Activities

Council had Water Supplies and Sewerage System operations as Category 2 business activities.

Council transferred these activities to Hunter Water Corporation on 1 July 2008, the finalisation of which has not yet occurred, as such Council continues to carry some assets relating to water.

Additionally Council has an interest in Hunter Councils Incorporated which is a Category 2 business. The activities of this organisation are not controlled by Council.

Complaints Management

Council’s Complaint Handling System and Policies were reviewed in 2008/2009 with Council adopting the following policies to assist with corporate governance and transparency on 21 February 2006.

 Complaints/Action Requests Policy  Competitive Neutrality Complaints Policy  Protected Disclosures Policy

The Complaints Handling System is publicised through Council's Management Plan and the Annual Report.

Complaints Received and Outcomes

No complaints were received regarding competitive neutrality requiring action by Council or its officers during the 2009/2010 financial year.

Dungog Shire Council Annual Report 2009/10 Page 49

STORMWATER MANAGEMENT SERVICES

Council’s Management Plan for Stormwater Services highlighted the preparation of the Asset Management Plan including a full asset listing, condition monitoring and valuation. The Plan would then describe a future needs and replacement program.

During the financial year the development of irrigation system for Bennett Park utilising the stormwater re-use tank was completed utilising funds from the Federal Government Community Water Grants Programme.

Also preliminary design work was undertaken in Rens and Dowling Streets, Dungog for stormwater detention associated with proposed roadworks in Rens Street and Melbee Circuit.

Council also undertook the preparation of the Town Creek Clarence Town Management Plan that includes recommended stormwater designs for Town Creek. This project was supported by funding from the Williams River Catchment Management Forum. The Plan makes recommendations in relation to future infrastructure spending in Clarence Town.

Total Stormwater Charges levied in 2009/10 $40,034

Expenditure on Stormwater Management Services $74,901

COMPANION ANIMALS ACT & REGULATION

Dungog Shire Council provides a comprehensive Companion Animals Service that includes active administration, education and monitoring components.

Pound data information is lodged annually with the Department and dog attack data is updated as required on the Companion Animals Web page.

Council contracts the services of Rangers from Port Stephens Council one day a week to provide patrol, enforcement and education services. A commercially operated kennel is also contracted on a fee for service basis to provide pound services.

In the 2009/2010 period $30,508 was expended on Councils Companion Animal program with the majority $18,648 on contract rangers and approximately $2000 on pound services. The balance went to administration and education costs.

Revenues from Companion Animals fees of $6,708 were all expended in the companion animal area.

There is currently only one off leash area in the Shire. Council promotes its Companion Animal program and offers unclaimed pound animals through the local press. Leaflet drops to all urban residences promoting the various aspects of Companion Animals management are carried out regularly as material becomes available.

Council has adopted a Companion Animals Management Plan that details strategies in relation to companion animals in this area and includes programs for improved education, desexing and provision of additional off leash areas in the Shire.

Dungog Shire Council Annual Report 2009/10 Page 50

PPIPA (PRIVACY & PERSONAL INFORMATION PROTECTION ACT 1998)

Council implemented their Privacy Management Plan on 18th July 2000 after receiving the model privacy management plan on 29th June 2000.

Council as part of Hunter Councils has co-operatively worked on developing a consistent approach between member Councils in regards to accessibility of information and identification of public registers.

For the reporting period 1st July 2009 to 30th June 2010, the number of applications received and processed by Council were as follows:-

Section 13 Application Nil Section 14 Application Nil Section 15 Application Nil Requests for Internal Review Nil

SPECIAL RATE VARIATION EXPENDITURE 2009/10

The Minister for Local Government granted Council a special rate variation in 2007/2008 and 2008/2009 for costs associated with renewal and maintenance works on roads and bridges infrastructure, environmental remediation, risk management initiatives and NSW Rural Fire Service contributions. Below are details of the total income received, expenditure per program and outcomes to date.

Environmental remediation

Income received to date $45,000 with works undertaken in the following areas:

Recapping, drainage and revegetation work was carried out at the former Paterson Landfill site on Gresford Road. This work included importing additional capping material, earthworks to assist stormwater runoff, maintenance, the construction of drainage and a sediment control dam and revegetation of the site – cost to date $7,404.

Work has commenced at the disused Clarence Town landfill site. Site investigation and test pits were dug on site to provide data for site specific remediation plan. This plan will be prepared by Consultants and work carried out in the 2009/10 period – cost to date $2,739.

Significant expenditure on the Clarence Town landfill remediation will occur as a consequence of the preliminary report released by Council’s consultant. Unfortunately work on the Clarence Town and Gresford former landfill sites has been delayed due to access and leasing issues.

A Remediation Management Plan has been prepared by consultants for the Clarence Town landfill that investigated the options for remediation of this site. Discussions have commenced with the Worimi Local Aboriginal Land Council (the now owners of the site) in relation to the reported options and the future care and maintenance of the site – cost to date $9,411.

The balance of any unspent funds has been restricted and rolled over into the following period.

Dungog Shire Council Annual Report 2009/10 Page 51

Infrastructure Renewal and Maintenance

Urban Roads Heavy Patch – Income received to date $120,000. Works have been undertaken in the following areas with $95,730 expended to date:-

2008 2009 2010 Dungog streets 300 m2 Eloiza Street (Dungog) 500m² Dungog Streets Gresford streets 350 m2 Lord Street (Dungog) 330m² Clarence Town streets 200m2 Durham Road (East Gresford) 270m² Short Street (Gresford) 180m²

Rural Sealed Roads Shoulders – Income received to date $165,000. Works have been undertaken in the following areas with $175,324 expended to date:-

2008 2009 2010 Alison Road (14.0 shoulder km) Allyn River Road (2.0 shoulder kms) Fisher Hill Road Flat Tops Road (8.0 shoulder Glen William Road (14.0 shoulder Fosterton Road kms) kms) Hilldale Road Fosterton Road (2.0 shoulder Limeburners Creek Road (2.0 Horns Crossing Road kms) shoulder kms) Lennoxton Road Paterson Road (6.0 shoulder kms) Salisbury Road (12.0 shoulder kms) Limeburners Creek Road Summerhill Road (9.0 shoulder kms) Marshdale Road Webbers Creek Road (2.0 shoulder Paterson River Road kms) Torryburn Road

Rural Unsealed Roads Resheeting – Income received to date $165,000. Works have been undertaken in the following areas with $162,186 expended to date:

2008 2009 2010 Allyn River Road (7,000m²) Allyn River Road (1,000m2) Allyn River Road James Road (8,250m2) Clements Road (2,000m²) Flying Fox Lane Welshmans Creek Road (350m2) Gardiners Road (4,000m²) Fosterton Road Merchants Road (1,000m²) Lennoxton Road Parishs Road (2,500m²) Monkerai Road Parks Creek Road (1,500m²) Paterson River Road Summerhill Road (2,200m²) Salisbury Gap Road Torryburn Road (1,500m²)

Traffic Facilities – Income received to date $77,865. Works have been undertaken in the following areas with $50,734 expended to date:-

2008 2009 Dungog Streets – urban linemarking Regional Road 101 Clarence Town Streets – urban linemarking Regional Road 301 Dungog & Clarence Town roads – fog line works Hilldale Road Limeburners Creek Road

Roadside Hazards – Income received to date $74,000. – Works have been undertaken in the following areas with $3,645 expended to date:-

2009 Chichester Dam Road Main Creek Road Monkerai Road

Dungog Shire Council Annual Report 2009/10 Page 52

Rural Unsealed Roads Drainage – Income received to date $74,000. Works have been undertaken in the following areas with $60,420 expended to date:-

2009 2010 Allyn River Road Allyn River Road Cabbage Tree Road Common Road Common Road Torryburn Road Flat Tops Road Wangat Trig Road James Road Paterson River Road Salisbury Gap Road Sugarloaf Road

Rural Sealed Roads Drainage – Income received to date $56,000. Works have been undertaken in the following areas with $30,113 expended to date:-

2009 2010 Black Rock Road Fishers Hill Road Bower Bird Close Fosterton Road Cemetery Road (Dungog) Sugarloaf Road Fosterton Road Torryburn Road Glen William Road Grace Avenue Limeburners Creek Road Marshdale Road Martins Creek Road Paterson River Road Salisbury Road Station Street Webbers Creek Road Woerdens Road

Urban Sealed Roads – Income received to date $99,212. Works have been undertaken in the following areas with $47,604 expended to date:-

2009 Dungog, Short Street – widening and kerb and gutter Clarence Town Road – widening and kerb & gutter

Risk Management

Parks & Gardens – Income received to date $30,000. Works have been undertaken in the following areas with $5,713 expended to date:-

2009 2010 Paterson – John Tucker Park Vacy Park – Playground Equipment Audit. Clarence Town – Reg Ford Oval Shire - Signage

Sporting Grounds – Income received to date $15,000. Works have been undertaken in the following areas with $17,576 expended to date:-

2008 2009 2010 Security key system Security Key System Dungog – Bennett Park

Records – Income received to date $15,000. Works have been undertaken in the following areas with $5,000 expended to date:-

2008 Security Key System

Dungog Shire Council Annual Report 2009/10 Page 53

Public Halls – Income received to date $6,000. Works have been undertaken in the following areas with $4,000 expended to date:-

2008 2009 2010 Security Key System Security Key System Security Key System

NSW RFS Contribution – Income received to date $78,000 with $78,000 expended.

All unexpended funds have been transferred to an internally restricted reserve to carry over to the next financial year.

FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ACT 1989 STATISTICAL REPORT

SECTION A Numbers of new FOI requests - Information relating to numbers of new FOI requests received, those processed and those incomplete from the previous period.

FOI Requests Personal Other Total A1 New (including transferred in) Nil 2 2 A2 Brought forward Nil Nil Nil A3 Total to be processed Nil 2 2 A4 Completed Nil 2 2 A5 Transferred out Nil Nil Nil A6 Withdrawn Nil Nil Nil A7 Total processed Nil 2 2 A8 Unfinished (carried forward) Nil Nil Nil

SECTION B What happened to completed requests? (Completed requests are those on Line A4).

Result of FOI Request Personal Other B1 Granted in full Nil 2 B2 Granted in part Nil Nil B3 Refused Nil Nil B4 Deferred Nil Nil B5 Completed Nil 2

SECTION C Ministerial Certificates - number issued during the period.

C1 Ministerial Certificates issued Nil

SECTION D Formal consultations - number of requests requiring consultations (issued) and total number of FORMAL consultation(s) for the period.

Issued Total D1 Number of requests requiring formal consultation(s) 1 1

SECTION E Amendment of personal records - number of requests for amendment processed during the period.

Result of Amendment Request Total E1 Result of amendment - agreed Nil E2 Result of amendment - refused Nil E3 Total Nil

Dungog Shire Council Annual Report 2009/10 Page 54

SECTION F Notation of personal records - number of requests for notation processed during the period.

F3 Number of requests for notation Nil

SECTION G FOI requests granted in part or refused - Basis of disallowing access - Number of times each reason cited in relation to completed requests which were granted in part or refused.

Basis of disallowing or restricting access Personal Other G1 Section 19 (application incomplete, wrongly directed) Nil Nil G2 Section 22 (deposit not paid) Nil Nil G3 Section 25 (1) (a1) (diversion of resources) Nil Nil G4 Section 25 (1) (a) (exempt) Nil Nil G5 Section 25 (1) (b), (c), (d) (otherwise available) Nil Nil G6 Section 28 (1) (b) (documents not held) Nil Nil G7 Section 24 (2) - deemed refused, over 21 days Nil Nil G8 Section 31 (4) (released to Medical Practitioner) Nil Nil G9 Totals Nil Nil

SECTION H Costs and fees of requests processed during the period (ie those included in line A4, A5 and A6). Please DO NOT include costs and fees for unfinished requests (ie those requests included in Line A8).

Assessed Costs FOI Fees Received H1 All completed requests $1,615 $390

SECTION I Discounts allowed - numbers of FOI requests processed during the period where discounts were allowed.

Type of Discount Allowed Personal Other I1 Public interest Nil Nil I2 Financial hardship - Pensioner / Child Nil Nil I3 Financial hardship - Non profit organisation Nil Nil I4 Totals Nil Nil I5 Significant correction of personal records Nil Nil

SECTION J Days to process - Number of completed requests (A4) by calendar days (elapsed time) taken to process.

Elapsed Time Personal Other J1 0 - 21 days Nil 1 J2 22 - 35 days Nil 1 J3 Over 35 days Nil Nil J4 Totals Nil 2

SECTION K Processing time - number of completed requests (A4) by hours taken to process.

Processing Hours Personal Other K1 1 - 10 hrs Nil 1 K2 11 - 20 hrs Nil 1 K3 21 - 40 hrs Nil Nil K4 Over 40 hrs Nil Nil K5 Totals Nil 2

SECTION L Reviews and Appeals - number finalised during the period.

L1 Number of internal reviews finalised Nil L2 Number of Ombudsman reviews finalised Nil L3 Number of District Court appeals finalised Nil

Dungog Shire Council Annual Report 2009/10 Page 55

Details of Internal Review Results - in relation to internal reviews finalised during the period.

Bases of Internal Review Personal Other Grounds On Which Internal Review Requested Upheld Varied Upheld Varied L4 Access refused Nil Nil Nil Nil L5 Deferred Nil Nil Nil Nil L6 Exempt matter Nil Nil Nil Nil L7 Unreasonable charges Nil Nil Nil Nil L8 Charge unreasonably incurred Nil Nil Nil Nil L9 Amendment refused Nil Nil Nil Nil L10 Totals Nil Nil Nil Nil

ENVIRONMENTAL PLANNING & ASSESSMENT ACT 1979

Council had one Voluntary Planning Agreement (VPA) executed in 2008/09. The VPA was endorsed by Council with Stronach Downes Pty Ltd. No particulars of compliance or current issues with ongoing VPA.

Dungog Shire Council Annual Report 2009/10 Page 56