TORRES SHIRE COUNCIL
ANNUAL REPORT | 2014 to 2015 To lead, provide & facilitate Torres Shire Council 68 Douglas Street (PO BOX 171) Thursday Island, QLD 4875 Ph: (07 4069 1336) Fax: (07 4069 1845)
Disclaimer: Torres Shire Council advises that this publication may contain images of information of deceased Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people Torres Shire Council Annual Report 2014 - 2015 INDEX
04. Introduction 18. Our Councillors
05. The Torres Strait 21. Advisory Committees
06. History 22. Councillors’ Remuneration
08. Torres Shire in Brief 23. Council Meetings & Attendances
09. Torres Shire 24. Organisation Chart
11. Strategic Direction 25. Executive Management Team
12. Partnerships 26. Corporate Governance
13. Contacting the Council 29. Statistics & Other Information
14. Report from the Mayor 30. Community Snapshots
16. Chief Executive Officer’s Report 35. Community Financial Report
APPENDICES
APPENDIX 3 APPENDIX 1 Current Year Financial 43. Financial Statements 91. Sustainability Report APPENDIX 4 APPENDIX 2 Current Year Financial 90. Independent Auditor’s Report 93. Sustainability Audit Report
Page 3 for adoption at a Council Meeting prior to INTRODUCTION 30th November in the year after the end of the financial year to which the report relates. This Torres Shire Council Annual Report provides an account of the organisation’s performance, activities and other information for the financial year from 1 July 2014 to 30 COPIES June 2015 Objectives and strategies addressed in this The Annual Report shows transparency in Annual Report are contained in the Torres accountability for all financial and operational Shire Council 2014-2018 Corporate Plan. performances throughout the year and contains important information for Residents Copies of both the Corporate Plan and this and Ratepayers, Councillors and Staff, Annual Report are available from: community groups, government, developers / investors and other interested parties, Torres Shire Council, on operations, achievements, challenges, 68 Douglas Street, Thursday Island culture, purposes and plans for the future. Postal address – P O Box 171, Thursday Island Qld 4875 Torres Shire Council is strongly committed Email - [email protected] to serving the community and provides this Website - www.torres.qld.gov.au Annual Report in accordance with the Local Government Act 2009. FEEDBACK
LEGISLATION Feedback and suggestions for any improvement to this Annual Report are Under the Local Government Act 2009, a welcomed and maybe emailed to admin@ local government must prepare an Annual torres.qld.gov.au or by phone call to the Report for each financial year which is from Chief Executive Officer on Telephone (07) 1st July to 30th June. The report must be 4069 1336. presented to the Local Government Council
Bayo Beach, Thursday Island
Page 4 Torres Shire Council Annual Report 2014 - 2015
THE TORRES STRAIT
The Torres Strait islands, of more than a hundred islands, traditionally known as Zenadth Kes, are divided into:
• Gudha Maluilgal - Boigu; Dauan and Saibai Islands • Muluilgal - Badu; Mabuiag and Moa Islands • Kulkulgal - Iama (Yam Is); Warraber (Sue Is); Poruma (Coconut Is) & Masig (Yorke Is) • Meriam - Mer (Murray Is); Erub (Darnley Is) and Ugar (Stephen Is) • Kaiwalagal - Waibene (Thursday Is); Ngurupai (Horn Is); Kirriri (Hammond Is); Muralug (Prince of Wales Is); Gealug (Friday Is); Mawai (Wednesday Is), Palilug (Goode Is)
There are three dialects spoken within the three groups of islands, predominated by the ‘creole’ language that emerged after the arrival of the missionaries:
• Kala Kawa Ya (Top Western and Western group) • Kala Lagau Ya (Central group) • Meriam (Eastern group)
The Torres Strait is home of the First Nation Indigenous People of Australia - Torres Strait Islanders and Aboriginals.
The Torres Strait islands are part of the State of Queensland, Australia and the islands of Boigu, Dauan and Saibai are within an active international border where the neighbouring country of Papua New Guinea is visible from those islands’ shorelines.
The issues of Customs, Quarantine, Immigration and Defence are administered from Thursday Island within a Treaty that also maintains traditional cultural and trade ties between Papua New Guinea and the people of the Torres Strait.
Page 5 HISTORY
Torres Strait Islanders and Aboriginals occupied the Torres Strait during a period when the celistial tides provided a bridge between Papua New Guinea and Australia over 40,000 years ago.
The first place of permanent European settlement in Torres Strait was Somerset, south-east on the tip of Cape York Peninsula and was ocupied from 1863 to 1877.
On account of the hazardous tidal channel between Somerset and Albany Island, the settlement was moved to Port Kennedy – Thursday Island - where the harbour was considered safe and with a deep anchorage for the increasing shipping movements of the Pacific traders and the Christian missionaries throughout the Torres Strait.
Also with the discovery of pearl shell in the 1860’s this led to the influx of Japanese, Malays, Filipinos, Micronesian and European nationalities to this region.
Customs House, Thursday Island Built 1938 Green Hill Fort Cannon, Thursday Island
Pearling Lugger Pearl Shells on the Thursday Island Wharf 1958
Page 6 Torres Shire Council Annual Report 2014 - 2015
HISTORY (CONT’D)
The London Missionary Society (LMS) landed on Darnley Island on July 1, 1871 and introduced christianity for the first time to its Torres Strait Islander inhabitants.
The date of July 1 is recognised as the “Coming of the Light” and is commemorated annually throughout the Torres Strait. It is a Torres Shire gazetted bank holiday each year.
The customary lores that still regulate the practices and customs of today’s traditional and contemporary Torres Strait culture is evident in the continual struggle for greater autonomy by the islanders which dates back to when Luis Vaes De Torres, the first Spanish navigator discovered the Strait.
In 1770 Captain James Cook made claim to the east coast of Australia, on Possession Island, in the name of the King of England, the British Crown under international award of terra nullius. This concept was overturned by the Mabo High Court Decision on 3 June 1992 and for this reason this date is now commemorated as Mabo Day – a Torres Shire gazetted bank holiday.
The inaugral Island Council Meeting at Masig in August 1937 set about the revival of the need to establish the prominancy of Torres Strait Islanders in Queensland and Local Government on the outer islands which would set a precedent for the Town Council on Thursday Island. The first migration of outer-island tribal group to Thursday Island occurred around the period of 1930 to form Tamwoy Reserve community under the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Act.
Sunrise from Lion’s Lookout, Thursday Island
Wind Turbines on Milman Hill, All Soul’s Quetta Memorial Sea Swift Barges in the Thursday Island Cathedral, Thursday Island Thursday Island Harbour
Page 7 TORRES SHIRE IN BRIEF
• Torres Shire consists of Waibene (Thursday Island); Ngurupai (Horn Island); Gealug (Friday Island); Mawai (Wednesday Island); Muralug (Prince of Wales Island) and Palilug (Goode Island) and areas of the Northern Peninsula Area (NPA) of Cape York.
• Torres Shire is the northern most Shire in Queensland and is located in a Special Commonwealth Territory of Australia with an international border from the coast line of Western Province in Papua New Guinea down to the 11th degree parallel crossing the Cape York Peninsula at the Jardine River.
• Torres Shire is the northern most administration centre for the Commonwealth and State Governments based on Thursday Island.
• Torres Shire has a population of approximately 4,600 with a transient number of residents working in education, police, ambulance, medical, customs, recreation, travel and administrative needs based on Waibene and Ngurupai.
• The Horn Island International Airport is owned and operated by Torres Shire Council.
Ken Brown Oval, Thursday Island Engineers Wharf Pontoon, Thursday Island
Victoria Parade Foreshore, Thursday Island Pink Bougainvillea
Page 8 Torres Shire Council Annual Report 2014 - 2015
TORRES SHIRE THURSDAY ISLAND
Thursday Island, also known as Waibene and central to the Kaurareg Archipeligo, is approx., 3.5 square kilometres. The administration centre of the Torres Shire is based on Thursday Island.
After almost 40 years of administration by a State Government Administrator the Torres Shire Council was restored to elected Council status in March 1991 and is now administered by a mainstream local authority Council comprising a Mayor and four Councillors.
Torres Shire Council has established an Indigenous Land Use Agreement (ILUA) with the Kaurareg Traditional Owners on specific aspects of its development and is covered by Native Title.
All commercial activities and social services are generated from Thursday Island.
The majority of the business centre is located on Douglas Street where there are hotels, a motel, food takeaways, numerous retail shops including a chemist, newsagency, grocers and bakery, Council Chambers, Australia Post and agent for Commonwealth Bank of Australia, National Bank of Australia, Queensland Public Health Centre & Dental Clinic, Police Station, Court House, a hostel, taxi ranks and residences.
Other facilities of the Federal and State Governments maintaining services on Thursday Island include Immigration, Customs, Foreign Affairs & Trade, Fire & Rescue Services, Queensland Ambulance and the Federal Police. A joint Defence Force Base is situated at Hocking Point.
Several Churches are situated at the west end of Douglas Street, with a fully equipped General Hospital at the far end, staffed by professional medical and health personnel with the nursing staff quarters nearby. In emergency cases, patients are medivaced south and the Queensland Ambulance Service plays a major part in servicing the communities in the whole region.
The Thursday Island Cemetery is listed on the Australian Historic Register and a special section is dedicated to approx. 700 graves of Japanese pearl divers and Japanese residents.
Education facilities in the Torres Shire are provided at Our Lady of the Sacred Heart School, Tagai State Colleges - Primary Campus and Secondary Campus, Tagai TAFE and the Tagai State College, Horn Island Campus.
Victoria Parade Foreshore, Thursday Island
Page 9 HORN ISLAND
Horn Island, known as Ngurupai, is an area of 53 sq. kilometres, has the Airport, Quarry, Landfill and the Loggy Creek dam which is a major infrastructure supplying water to Horn, Hammond & Thursday Islands. The township of Wasaga has a general store, cafe, churches, hotel, motel and museum, a sports stadium and children’s play-ground, Police, Health and emergency services.
There are two wharves, one provides an interchange service between the Airport and Thursday Island with daily ferry and water-taxi services for visitors and local commuters, and the other is used as a public cargo and shipping wharf.
Horn Island Airport Terminal Horn Island Pontoon PRINCE OF WALES ISLAND
Prince of Wales Island, also known as Muralug is the largest island in the Torres Strait, with an area of 203 square kilometres. It is mainly the traditional lands of the Kaurareg people but also contains a number of leased and freehold areas. The population is approx. 90 residents with homes along the most popular beaches at Muralug, Country Woman’s Beach, and Long Beach. Residents commute to nearby Thursday Island by dinghies for work, shopping, medical and a school boat operates to transport children to the schools on Thursday Island. Torres Shire Council maintains landfill and roads along the populated areas. Almond tree at Bach Beach, Thursday Island looking towards Prince of Wales Island INNER ISLANDS OF THE TORRES SHIRE
• Goode Island has a decomissioned lighthouse, a World War II derelict command post and look-out stations • Friday Island is popular for camping and picnics and is the base for this area’s • largest cultured pearl farm • Tuesday lslands group and Wednesday Island are uninhabitated islands nearby
Page 10 Torres Shire Council Annual Report 2014 - 2015
STRATEGIC DIRECTION
VISION
To Lead, Provide & Facilitate
MISSION STATEMENT
Torres Shire Council through community consultation will focus on the promotion of community values together with the improvement of the quality of lifestyle whilst ensuring efficiency of servicing and protection of the environment
GOALS
Goals are identifiable long-term end results or outcomes which enable Council to achieve its Mission. Council has adopted the following goals:
• To develop an organisational environment that fosters fairness and honesty, high productivity and continual improvement in management and workplace practices. • To give optimum value for money. • To promote Council universally as being a professional and committed organisation dedicated to fulfilling the needs and expectations of the community. • To maintain excellent teamwork between the Community, Council and Staff. • To develop communication and consultation strategies to ensure a meaningful working partnership with all stakeholders.
OUR VALUES
Council aims to generate an organisational environment based on openness, honesty and respect which will improve the management of people, systems and resources available to Council.
Friday Island Pearl Farm Rafts Sunset at Bach Beach, Thursday Island
Page 11 PARTNERSHIPS
Victoria Parade Foreshore, Thursday Island
Council has developed working partnerships with key local organisations and government departments including:
• Australian Defence Force • Cairns Regional Council • Community Employment Agencies • Dept of Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Affairs • Dept of Immigration & Citizenship • Horn Island Residents & Ratepayers Association • Islanders Board of Industry & Service • Mura Kosker Sorority Inc • Muralug Community Association • Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council • Port Kennedy Association • Ports North • Queensland Police Service • Queensland Ambulance • Queensland Fire & Rescue Services • Queensland Health Department • Torres News • Torres Strait Island Regional Council • Torres Strait Regional Authority • Torres Strait Youth Sports & Recreation Association • Torres Strait Islanders Media Association Inc
Page 12 Torres Shire Council Annual Report 2014 - 2015
CONTACTING THE COUNCIL
ADMINISTRATION OFFICE
Postal Business Contact Location Email Website Address Hours Details
P.O. Box 171 68 Douglas Street 9am to 4pm Ph (07) 4069 1336 [email protected]. www.torres.qld. Thursday Island Thursday Island Monday to Friday gov.au gov.au Qld 4875 Fax (07) 4069 1835
LIBRARY
Postal Business Contact Location Email Website Address Hours Details
10am to 6pm 121-125 P.O. Box 171 Monday to Friday Ph (07) 3077 9899 [email protected]. www.torres.qld. Douglas Street Thursday Island gov.au gov.au Thursday Island Qld 4875 10am to 1pm Fax (07) 4069 1983 Saturday
EMERGENCY AFTER HOURS
THURSDAY ISLAND & Mobile 0429 691 330 HORN ISLAND
HORN ISLAND AIRPORT Mobile 0429 691 338
Line Marking on Douglas Street, Thursday Island
Page 13 REPORT FROM THE MAYOR
Maiem Seu Ngapa
It is a pleasure to present this report on the activities and progress made in the Torres Shire during the financial year 2014-2015.
I acknowledge the Traditional Custodians of Kaiwalagal archipelago the Kaurareg People in which the Torres Shire Council administers its Local Government responsibilities. I also acknowledge the representatives of other Zenadth Kes Traditional Clan Groups residing within our shire.
The team at Torres Shire Council has strived to continue to Lead, Provide and Facilitate services within our financial capacity whilst ensuring transparent governance and compliance to legislative requirements.
The environment for State and Commonwealth grants in this period has been challenging for Council as the request for dollar-for-dollar funding is increasing with government’s added expectation for Council to do more with less.
The remote location and high costs of living associated with our region did not deter the strategic and operational planning to ensure our constituents accesses quality local government services.
It is with great pleasure that I highlight some of Council’s achievements during this financial year.
Supply of Rainwater Tanks to Muralug (POW) Communities Council continues to investigate various options to address the water supply issues on Muralug (Prince of Wales Island). As part of Shire’s community capacity building and partnership programs Council adopted a working relationship with Muralug Community Association. Through this partnership Council was able to secure financial assistance from Torres Strait Regional Authority to supply and deliver rainwater tanks to constituents living on Muralug, Friday and Packe Islands This working arrangement also allows Council and community groups to identify priority projects which are listed in their Community Plan e.g. transport, waste, power and water.
2014 Winds of Zenadth Cultural Festival Council hosted the 2014 Winds of Zenadth Cultural Festival celebrations for the region from 9-12 September on Thursday Island. Highlights of this year’s festival included the traditional model canoe races, indigenous artists in residence, preservation of indigenous culture and traditions through song and dance and the Winds of Zenadth Battle of the Bands. Visitors and spectators were blessed to witness the coming together of the traditional and contemporary talents to promote one of the world’s ancient society.
Torres Strait Regional NAIDOC Awards Council hosted this prestigious black tie function to recognise the achievements of the indigenous people connected and serving their communities and region. Council acknowledges the support of its two sister Councils; Torres Strait Island Regional Council and Northern Peninsula Area Regional Council and the Torres Strait Regional Authority and local businesses and sponsors for this celebration event.
Page 14 Torres Shire Council Annual Report 2014 - 2015
Japanese Kushimoto Delegation Visit Kushimoto and Thursday Island under the International Friend City Agreement, signed in 2011, continue to strengthen our relationship by maintaining regular engagements. A delegation from Kushimoto lead by Mayor Tashima visited our Shire during October 2014 in an exchange program and Council will plan to visit Kushimoto in 2017.
Discount Passed onto Torres Shire Ratepayers Ratepayers of Torres Shire Local Government area have been granted a 20% discount on their second half-yearly waste charges as determined by Council during our 2014-2015 Budget Meeting. Council remains in a very stable financial position after passing on this generous discount to its ratepayers due to its efficient operations towards service delivery in waste management.
Footpath Improvements in the Shire Works continue around Thursday Island and investments are being applied to the construction of footpaths where a high number of pedestrian movements is evident. Council recently completed the footpath works along Victoria Parade from Engineer’s Wharf to Mairu Beach. Construction of another is underway from the corner of Summers Street along Hastings Street to Douglas Street by the National Australian Bank building. This improvement will allow safe walking access especially for children and parents who generally utilise this route. Scoping has commenced to construct a footpath from the corner of David Street along towards Olandi Street at Tamwoy.
Ken Brown Oval Change Room and Training Facility The Ken Brown Oval Change Rooms and Training Facility was funded through the Torres Strait Regional Authority – Healthy Communities Program. The tender was awarded in February 2015 and works were completed in June 2015. Local company, Matt Birney Builders was the successful contractor. Included within the contract was an amount in excess of 700 hours for indigenous employment for training purposes. The building was completed within budget and the nominated timeframe.
2015 Torres Shire Garden Fair Council hosted the Torres Shire Garden Fair promoting healthier lifestyle and beautification programs. The Garden Fair provides opportunity for government, non government organisations and individuals to share plants and garden techniques to improve our island lifestyle. This event compliments the ongoing awareness of the high occurrence of diabetes throughout our region. Council invites residents to participate in the planning and development of Shire’s new project, the Frog Gully Community Garden. My message and motto is “You change; Your community change and You design the change”.
100th Anniversary of ANZAC The Shire took its place in the Nation’s celebrations this year, acknowledging the 100th Anniversary of the ANZAC landing at Gallipoli. This significant event was supported by the visiting Royal Australian Navy Marching Band. It is important ‘to keep the home fires burning’ to acknowledge the tremendous sacrifice demonstrated by our men and women in the various theatres of wars, not forgetting our own who served in the Torres Strait Light Infantry Battalion (TSLIB) during WWII.
Visit of Governor of Queensland The Council hosted a visit from His Excellency the Governor of Queensland Paul de Jersey and Mrs de Jersey. The Governor experienced an island feasting as well as visiting the outer island communities assisted by the Torres Strait Island Regional Council.
Page 15 Polynesian Traditional Sailing Canoe The Traditional Sailing Canoe of the Polynesian Voyaging Society sailed into our harbour and received a warm community welcome from local residents during a stopover on their world sea voyage. Our Pacific friends acknowledged the Torres Strait Ancestors who first taught their fathers the art of navigation by the stars. Thursday Island was one of their special Australian destinations.
Dirt Girl World and Scrap Boy visits Torres Shire Council has lead and facilitated recycling and waste management discussions for sometime now. As residents and ratepayers know, Council operates a transfer station on Thursday Island and waste is transported by barge daily to the landfill on Horn Island.
Council received a presentation from Dirt Girl World at a Council meeting and Council followed this up with hosting a community workshop with respected community and government stakeholders to showcase Dirt Girl World’s recycling strategies and success stories from around the country.
I extend my thanks to my elected colleagues for their commitment and dedication displayed in serving our community during this financial year.
I also acknowledge the support and service provided by Council’s management. I sincerely eso the Chief Executive Officer and all members of the administration team for providing sound and professional advice and guidance to Council throughout the year.
In closing I know that a ‘Team Approach’ is essential for the delivery of quality local government essential services throughout our islands Shire. Council welcomes questions by the community about any content of the Annual Report. Please feel free to contact any Councillors, the Chief Executive Officer or myself.
Yours in good local government
Please direct all your enquiries or questions about this report to myself or the Chief Executive Officer.
Au Esoau, Ngai Koeyma Eso
Cr Napau Pedro Stephen AM MAYOR
You Change, Your Community Change, You Lead & Design the Change
Page 16 Torres Shire Council Annual Report 2014 - 2015
OUR COUNCILLORS
Cr Yen Loban - Deputy Mayor
Firstly I acknowledge the advice given to me over this financial year from Council staff and Executives to fulfil my portfolio responsibilities especially in assisting the Mayor advocating local and regional economic initiatives at various State and local government forums. Through my extensive community involvement and networks I was able to identify challenges and present practical solutions to many obstacles which prohibits commercial enterprises in our Shire.
The Shire’s low rate base demands constant lobbying to secure financial assistance and grants to enable Council to offer quality services to our community and constituents.
Council was able to offer quality Local Government services through the ‘team’ effects of my elected colleagues.
Cr. Allan Ketchell
Through another busy year Council was able to demonstrate its sound financial and strategic management to achieve its strategic and operational targets. My portfolio responsibilities for Planning Development and Environment guided my decision to create sound working partnerships with all local, regional and national stakeholders.
Our Shire and region’s ‘high cost’ of living environment and the ongoing Government’s financial reforms and reviews to do ‘more with less’ warrants Council to be proactive to build strong working relationship with government and non government agencies. Housing ‘Homeownership’ and beautification programs and projects remain my focus. I am confident to state that through the combined effects of both my colleagues and our Council staff we were able to achieve much during 2014-2015 financial year.
Cr. Willie Wigness
I appreciate the support of both my elected colleagues and Council’s executive staff for their assistance in my shared Portfolio responsibilities. I have witnessed my elected colleague’s leadership in their cultural knowledge and integrity which is not compromised in their decision making.
Council continues to have a strong working relationship with Traditional Owners to encourage economic development.
Attending Indigenous Leaders Forums and LGAQ Conferences has given me some insight of the challenges other Local Authorities face throughout our country.
I support Council in hosting and promoting our ancient cultures through the bi-annual Winds of Zenadth Festival and annual NAIDOC celebrations.
Page 17 OUR COUNCILLORS Cr. John Abednego
I wish to acknowledge the traditional owners of our land, the Kaurareg Nation whereby Torres Shire Council holds its local government services. There have been many good achievements during this current term of local government. Under my portfolio, Council have represented the community to our best endeavours to strive for a greater outcome to benefit all our communities, taking into consideration the local government policy and legislative framework in which Council’s operations and management is governed. The organisation structure of Council is an important key to ensure the delivery of local government services to the community in a transparent manner. The portfolios held by respected councillors certainly go hand and hand with achieving our economic development goals. Sports & Recreation Amenities – it is with great pleasure that I report the major infrastructure works completed at the Torres Shire Sport Complex facility on Thursday Island during this financial year. The project allowed Council to fully restore the run down state of the complex including the installation of a new roof and flooring for all indoor sports competitions and activities. A much needed extension to the gymnasium has also been completed. Community Events – in this year, Council had been very active in delivering a significant number of popular and enjoyable community events. In particular, I wish to highlight the launching of the Frog Gully Community Garden Project during the annual Shire Garden Fair. Other annual events celebrated were the 2015 Australia Day Awards Ceremony and Family Fun Day, ANZAC Day, Torres Strait NAIDOC Awards, Japanese Obon Celebration, Torres Shire ‘Family Fun Day’ at Friday Island, Annual Christmas Lights Competition and New Year’s Eve Fireworks display.
Arts and Culture – it is with great pleasure that I hold the portfolios of Arts and Cultural which embraced the Winds of Zenadth Cultural Festival 2014, I valued working with the elders on the Indigenous Advisory Committee (IAC) in the production of the Festival as we celebrated this significant cultural event of the Torres Strait region as one family. The Theme selected by the IAC was “Maluw Mabaygal” - Kala Lagaw Ya and “Gur Legiz” – Meriam Mer. The Festival also delivered a much loved traditional recreation sport celebrated in the Torres Strait, sereb sereb narr, thugul makar sagul, traditional model canoe races. I wish to sincerely thank and acknowledge all the traditional dance groups from Zenadth Kez who participated at the 2014 festival and made it an event to remember. Au Esoau.
Community Planning – community members have been instrumental in driving the Master Plan for Rosehill, Aplin Road and Cook Esplanade. These community visions have been captured and continuous lobbying for funding to deliver these projects are paramount to Council. I would like to thank the community for attending these planning consultation meetings and I look forward to the final outcome and finished product in due course. I would sincerely like to express my appreciation to all the constituents of Torres Shire for trusting me to the position of elected councillor. I also extend my appreciation to the other elected members for their support and contribution during the year.
Page 18 Torres Shire Council Annual Report 2014 - 2015
COUNCILLORS’ PORTFOLIOS
Cr. Napau Pedro Stephen - Mayor | Mobile: 0408 981 644 | Email: [email protected] portfolio for Corporate Governance & Regional Relations/Partnership, Native Title • including, but not confined to, Audit & Finance, Budget, Legislation, Inter-Government Relations, Regional Governance, Tourism including Tourist Enhancements and Facilities, Tourist Industry Liaison, Disaster Management
Cr Yen Loban - Deputy Mayor | Mobile: 0409 586 059 | Email: [email protected] portfolio for Economic Development • including, but not confined to, Commercial Enterprises (Airport and Quarry) Commerce and Industry also Finance and Audit Committee, Ngurupai Sports Complex Advisory Committee
Cr. Allan Ketchell | Mobile: 0408 796 641 | Email: [email protected] portfolio for Planning Development and Environment • including but not confined to, Town Planning, Housing, Land Use, Native Title, Ports, Rosehill Ramp, Town Beautification, Cemetery and Community Security
Cr. John Abednego | Mobile: 0409 482 382 | Email: [email protected] portfolio for Arts & Culture, Youth Sport & Recreation, Social Policy including, but not confined to, Community Events, Cultural Promotion, Youth Affairs & Youth Council, Sporting Amenities, Social Issues, Memorandums of Understanding and Partnerships with Community Organisations
Cr. Willie Wigness | Mobile: 0407 125 948 | Email: [email protected] portfolio shared with Cr. Allan Ketchell for Planning Development and Environment • including but not confined to, Town Planning, Housing, Land Use, Native Title, Ports, Rosehill Ramp, Town Beautification, Cemetery and Community Security, and portfolio shared with Cr John Abednego for Arts & Culture, Youth Sport & Recreation, Social Policy including, but not confined to, Community Events, Cultural Promotion, Youth Affairs & Youth Council, Sporting Amenities, Social Issues, Memorandums of Understanding and Partnerships with Community Organisations
Kushimoto Delegation Visit to the Torres Shire, October 2014
Page 19 MESSAGE FROM THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Dalassa Yorkston
Welcome to the Torres Shire Council Annual Report 2014-2015.
I acknowledge the Kaurareg People as the traditional owners of the Kaiwalagal islands on which Torres Shire Council administers local government responsibilities.
Highlights for the year It has been an encouraging year for the Torres Shire Council during 2014-2015. I have enjoyed the challenges of being the Chief Executive of Council since 2012 and pleased to once again report on the many highlights, achievements and challenges of local government in our unique island lifestyle.
This year has been a very busy year for Torres Shire and as a team, we have kicked goals and made considerable achievements. Council has provided a variety of services additional to our general municipal services of ‘roads, rates and rubbish’.
Capital Works Programme The Wasaga Roads and Drainage Project – Stage Two was funded through the Major Infrastructure Program referred to as MIP, was the major capital works project for 2014-2015.
This particular project is delivering the re-construction of roads and drainage within Wasaga Village, Horn Island. The outcomes included improved roads to enable year round community access and reduce the dust pollution in the community. The improved drainage works under the project was able to reduce the pooling of water in the wet season which in turn reduces the number mosquito populations.
Council delivered this project in-house using our local workforce and community owned businesses to the job. This meant providing an opportunity to upskill our labour workforce with a great success rate in completion of certificate II and certificate 3 level of training.
The Wasaga Roads and Drainage Project – Stage Two was delivered under the Torres Strait MIP, a joint initiative of the Torres Strait Regional Authority, the Queensland Government and Torres Shire Council.
Other Capital Works Projects undertaken this year included: • Thursday Island Stadium Refurbishment & New Gymnasium Extension • Relocation of grand stand seating and shading at Ken Brown Oval • Ken Brown Oval Change Room and Training Facility • Footpaths construction (Hasting Street connecting Primary School to National Australia Bank, Engineers wharf to road crossing on Victoria Parade) • Horn Island Airport Deceased facility and gazebo • Horn Island Airport Pavement Repairs • Horn Island Airport new departure lounge new seating • Emergency generators x 2 • Chester Street Drainage Works
Page 20 Torres Shire Council Annual Report 2014 - 2015
Achievements and Partnerships Horn Island Airport was nominated for an excellence award for Small Regional Airport of The Year (Australia wide). Horn Island Airport was announced as the Award Winner for this category alongside Brisbane, Canberra and Darwin Airports. Being awarded the Small Regional Airport of Australia 2015 has and certainly placed the Torres Strait region on the map, a great outcome. Well done and Congratulations to the Horn Island Airport Staff of Torres Shire Council.
During 2014-2015, Council reviewed the operations of the Thursday Island Child Care Centre and decided to embark on a management partnership for three years with The Lady Gowie Inc. As a result, at the end of the financial year, the TICCC staff and operations were transferred under new management arrangement. Council, the staff and The Lady Gowie were excited and embraced the handover to the new entity smoothly. Council looks forward to having and providing a great learning environment for the community under the umbrella of a long standing organisation with child care centre management and development.Chief Executive Officer’s Message
Essential Services I wish to express my sincere appreciation to staff of TSC for their commitment and service delivery in their During 2014-2015 Council continued tospecialised provide the ongoingfield of work.essential Their services contribution, to our communities productivity and achievements are highly valued. to a high standard. This was the provision of fresh, clean drinking water supply, waste services via our transfer stations and sound operation of our sewer treatment plant on Thursday Island and sewer ponds on Horn Island servicing Wasaga Village. Road and drainage works continued also throughout the year and the ongoing provision of street cleansing and grass maintenance around our islands. Council continued to provide additional improvements and maintenance to the community assets and public spaces.
Staff Training and Development Investment As always, one of our greatest assets in local government is our human resources. During the year, Council made sound investment in training and development to enhance our staff potential in service delivery to the community. Training and development delivered in 2014-2015 included (but not limited to); CRP Refreshment and full course, Bronze Medallion Training, Aussie Hosts Customer Services training, Map Info and GIS Training, Supervisors Development Training, New Employee Induction Courses, Cross Cultural Awareness Course, Workplace Consultative Committee Training, Diploma Local Government Administration and Finance, Diploma Asset ManagementDalassa Training, Yorkston Diploma Project Management, Excel and Word Upskilling, Profession Development Forums and Workshops, Apprenticeship Block Training, ARO Training, Security Officer Training and Confined Space Training.
II wishwish toto expressextend mymy appreciationsincere appreciation and acknowledgement to staff of TSC to for Mayor their Pedrocommitment Stephen, and Cr. service Yen delivery in their specialised field of work. TheirLoban, contribution, Cr. John Abednego, productivity Cr. Allan and Ketchell,achievements Cr. Willie are Wigness highly valued.for their leadership and good governance portrayed throughout the year.
I also wish to thank the Directors and Management, Staff of Torres Shire Council for their contribution and performance within the organisation, your efforts are highly valuable.
Dalassa Yorkston ChiefDalassa Executive Yorkston Officer Chief Executive Officer
Annual Report 2012-2013 Page 21 Page 15 ADVISORY COMMITTEES
Internal
Finance and Audit Committee Mayor Stephen, Cr. Loban & Cr. Ketchell Council of Elders Committee Cr. Abednego Torres Strait Disaster Management Committee Mayor Stephen Torres Shire Indigenous Advisory Committee Cr. Abednego Kaurareg Traditional Owners Advisory Committee Mayor Stephen & all Councillors Ngurupai Sports Complex Committee Cr. Loban Torres Shire Tourism Steering Committee Mayor Stephen
External
Torres Strait Regional Authority (TSRA) – MOU Mayor Stephen, Cr. Loban & Cr. Ketchell Torres Strait Island Regional Council (TSIRC) Mayor Stephen & all Councillors Northern Peninsula Area Regional Mayor Stephen & all Councillors Council (NPARC) Cape Indigenous Mayors Alliance (CIMA) Mayor Stephen
Council Membership
Member of the Australian Local Government Association (ALGA) Member of Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ) Member of Cape York Mayor’s Alliance (CIMA)
Agreements
Indigenous Land Use Agreement with the Kaurareg Traditional Owners Friendship City Agreement with Kushimoto, Japan
LGAQ Indigenous Leader Forum, Thursday Island, 2014
Page 22 Torres Shire Council Annual Report 2014 - 2015
COUNCILLORS’ REMUNERATION
The Local Government Remuneration and Discipline Tribunal provided the Minister for Local Government, Community Recovery and Resilience the Tribunal’s 2013 Report. An electronic copy can be downloaded from http://www.dlgcrr.qld.gov.au/about-local-government-and- councils/tribunal-reports.html. The Report includes the Tribunal’s remuneration determination for 2013 and the remuneration schedule which will apply from 1 July 2014.
Determination of remuneration for Councillors • Increase in remuneration levels at an annualised rate of 3%, resulting in a 4.5% increase with effect 1 July 2014.
The reference rate of $146,904 is a rate determined by the Tribunal and was originally related to, but not dependant, the annual base salary payable to Members of the Queensland Legislative Assembly.
In addition, the Tribunal has decided that all Category 3 Councillors (that is, not including Mayors and Deputy Mayors) will be paid a base rate of 50% of the determination amount and be eligible for a pro-rata meeting fee for each of the 12 Council meetings to be held monthly as mandated in section 257(1) of the Regulation. From 1 July 2014, a Councillor in a Category 3 Council will be paid a base rate of $23,872 and a meeting fee of $1,989 for each monthly meeting with local certification of attendance required from the Mayor or Chief Executive Officer of the Council before payment of each meeting fee.
The remuneration for Mayor and Councillors of the Torres Shire Council was paid as listed below, for the fulfilment of the duties of office, including performing the role of a Councillor and of Mayor to the best of their ability, the payments of the base fee be made to Mayor and Deputy Mayor on a fortnightly basis, with effective date from 1 July 2014:
Councillors (that is, not including Mayors and Deputy Mayors) will be paid a base rate of 50% of the determination amount and be eligible for a pro-rata meeting fee for each of the 12 Council meetings to be held monthly as mandated in section 257(1) of the Regulation. From 1 July 2014, a Councillor in a Category 3 Council will be paid a base rate of $23,872 and a meeting fee of $1,989 for each monthly meeting with local certification of attendance required from the Mayor or Chief Executive Officer of the Council before payment of each meeting fee.
Remuneration Schedule (to apply from 1 July 2014) Mayor 65% of rate payable MLA Deputy Mayor 37.50% of rate payable MLA Councillor 32.50% of rate payable MLA
Councillors Remuneration
Local Government Area Mayor Deputy Mayor Councillor Category
Torres Shire Council $95,488 $55,089 $47,744 Category 3
For further information, refer to the Department of Infrastructure, Local Government and Planning website.
Overseas Travel There was no overseas travel involved by Councillors during the financial year 2014-15.
Page 23 COUNCIL MEETINGS ATTENDANCES BY MAYOR AND COUNCILLORS
Total Number of Meetings: 16 Attended Apology No Apology Mayor Pedro Stephen 16 - - Deputy Mayor Yen Loban 16 - - Cr. John Abednego 15 1 - Cr. Allan Ketchell 15 1 - Cr. Willie Wigness 8 6 2
Mayor Ordinary (O) Cr. Yen Cr. John Cr. Allan Cr. Willie Date Pedro Special (S) Loban Abednego Ketchell Wigness Stephen 2014 10 July S P P P P O 15 July O P P P P P 19 Aug O P P P P P 16 Sept O P P P P O 21 Oct O P P P P O 18 Nov O P P P P P 9 Dec O P P P P O 9 Dec S P P P P O 2015 20 Jan O P P P O P 16 Feb S P P P P O 17 Feb O P P O P O 17 Mar S P P P P P 21 Apr O P P P P P 19 May O P P P P P 23 Jun O P P P P P 26 Jun S P P P P O
Note: P attended O apology received
Page 24 Torres Shire Council Annual Report 2014 - 2015
ORGANISATION CHART
COMMUNITY
COUNCIL
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Overall Management Executive Secretary Corporate & Community Planning Regional Governance Consultants Intergovernmental Relations Disaster Management Corporate Project Coordination Mayor & Elected Members Support
DIRECTOR - DIRECTOR - ENGINEERING CORPORATE & REGULATORY & INFRASTRUCTURE COMMUNITY SERVICES MANAGER SERVICES
Compliance Building Control Purchasing & Supply Records Management Integrated Planning Roads & Drainage Human Resource Regulatory Services Parks & Gardens Payroll Disaster Management Street Lighting Staff Housing ILUA / Native Title Construction / Maintenance Rates & Charges Natural Resources Airport Council Plans Environment Quarry Asset Management Animal Control Private Works Financial Management Boat Ramps Governance Plant Workshop Policy Building Infrastructure Customer Service Management Workplace Health & Safety Depot Community Events and Community Water, Waste Water/Sewerage Services Cemeteries Economic Development Tourism
Page 25 EXECUTIVE MANAGEMENT TEAM
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Mrs Dalassa Yorkston
Director Engineering and Director Corporate & Community Services Infrastructure Services Mr Andrew Brown Mr William Cuthbertson (from 17 March 2015)
Director Corporate and Community Services Regulatory Manager Mr David McNicoll Ms Diana Russell (to January 2015)
Page 26 Torres Shire Council Annual Report 2014 - 2015
CORPORATE GOVERNANCE
Corporate Governance encompasses all the arrangements through which an organisation directs and controls itself and the people associated with it. The principles of corporate governance provides the framework for the way Council does business.
Fundamental to good corporate governance is leadership, accountability, transparency, quality disclosure, probity, being participatory, efficiency and effectiveness. Combined, these factors are instrumental in developing quality services for the community and encouraging trust in our actions.
Policies & Procedures Fundamental to consistency in the way Council does business is the setting by Council of clear policies and procedures to formulate sound and coordinated decision making by all in the organisation.
Code of Conduct There were no breaches or alleged breaches of Councillor’s Code of Conduct during the year 2014/15.
Strategic Leadership The Executive Management Team comprising of the Chief Executive Officer and Directors met on a weekly basis to set the strategic direction of the organisation.
General Complaints Process Council has a general complaints process for resolving complaints received from affected persons in respect of an administrative action of Council or an alleged minor breach of Council’s Code of Conduct by a Councillor. No complaints were lodged in 2014/15.
Accountability for Senior Officers The Chief Executive Officer and the two Directors are employed under fixed term performance based contracts of employment. Included in the contracts are strict values and performance measures to ensure considerable transparency and accountability.
Right to Information (RTI) Council encourages the sharing of information via avenues other than formal Freedom of Information procedure held by Council. Wherever possible, Council attempts to provide information upon request as a matter of course without the need to submit a formal RTI application. Council received three (3) applications for RTI during 2014/15.
Ombudsman No issues were submitted from the Ombudsman to Council during 2014/15.
Finance and Audit Committee Council’s Finance and Audit Committee met during the financial year to consider reports presented by staff and external auditors.
Equal Employment Opportunities (EEO) Council supports and practices EEO principles and has an EEO Management Plan for this purpose.
Council Meetings Council Ordinary meetings were held on the third Tuesday of each month (except for the month of December when it was held on the second Tuesday of the month) commenced at 9am and are open to the public. Council also received community deputations to attend Council Meetings in 2014/15
Page 27 Record of Deputations for 2014-2015
Council Ordinary Meeting Deputation by
Queensland Fire & Rescue Service - Torres Strait/NPA - Station August 2014 Officer Conor Maguire Representatives of Department of Housing & Public Works September 2014 – Mark Francis, Allen Davey & Pat Cowell
December 2014 Presentation by Mr Phillip Mills - Road Closure, Thursday Island
Dirt Girl World – Presentation on Recycling and Waste February 2015 Management - representatives Ms Cate McQuillen and Mr Geof Webb Executive General Manager-North, Andy Marshall - Torres & Cape March 2015 Hospital & Health Service Acting Officer in Charge, Queensland Police Services, Kristy Wilson and Sergeant Conrad Van Egmond of Horn Island Police Station
April 2015 Hon. Leeanne Enoch, Minister for Housing and Public Works and Minister for Science and Innovation; Neil Castles, Director-General, Department of Housing and Public Works and John Crawford, Chief of Staff, Office of the Minister for Housing and Public Works and Minister for Science and Innovation The Hon. Warren Entsch MP., Federal Member for Leichhardt May 2015 and Chair of the Joint Select Committee on Northern Australia - courtesy visit to Torres Shire
Delegation Register Council’s Delegation Register records the delegated levels of authority and instruments of authority held by all Council officers and is reviewed annually. The current delegations have provided Council officers with the ability to conduct their day-to-day operations in a more efficient and effective manner.
Contract Management Tendering procedures are utilised in accordance with legislative requirements and designed to ensure that Council delivers the best value, with the least risk to the community. Council’s Procurement Policy and Tendering Policy ensures the highest levels of open accountability are adhered to.
Changes to Tenders There were no relevant actions under Section 177 (7) of the Local Government Act 2009 (Changes to Tenders) during the year.
Tenders and Expressions of Interest
Closing Date Number Details
13/11/14 05/14 Establish/Configure MapInfo GIS Software
23/01/15 06/14 Change Rooms and Training Facility – Ken Brown Oval New 10M3 Truck – Supply & Delivery 28/01/15 01/15 (Using Local Buy for Procurement) 06/03/15 02/15 Valuation Council Infrastructure Assets
09/04/15 03/15 Sale of Used Plant and Equipment
Page 28 Torres Shire Council Annual Report 2014 - 2015
New Residents With the regular changeover of people within the Shire, Council encourages residents to obtain information at the Council Office on the many services and facilities provided.
Communication Links in the Community • Corporate Plan 2014-2018 • Finance & Audit Committee • Corporate Objectives and Strategies • Public Access - Audit Reports and Council • Annual Operational Plans Minutes are publicly available. • Report on Progress Against Corporate and • Regional Plan Operational Plans • Community Plan • Annual Budget • Financial Plan – 10 Year • Annual Report - Records progress on • Report on the Annual Review of the delivering Corporate Plan objectives Implementation of the Long Term Plans • Monthly Council Meetings • Risk Management Plan • Independent Annual Audit - by the • Annual Return on Community Engagement Queensland Audit Office • Annual Return on Governance
Revenue Policy Council’s revenue raising activities are governed by the Revenue Policy was adopted at the Budget Meeting held in 10 July 2014. The policy provides details on how rates are levied and explains the differential rating system that more fairly shares the burden of rates including the different categories. All water, sewerage, and waste charges are based on the policy, as well as special levies, rate remissions, payments, discounts and private works. Copies of the Revenue Policy are available at www.torres.qld.gov.au
List of Registers Council maintains a list of registers that are available on request. These include:
LG Act Section Details
248 Register of Interests of a Councillor*
433 Register of Electoral Gifts
472 Register of Delegations by Local Government
895 Register of Local Laws
921 Map and Register of Roads
975 Register of General Charges
1132 Register of Delegations by the CEO
1140 Register of Interests or Persons Related to a Councillor
This register pertains to the personal interests of all Councillors and Executive Staff. In addition, a register of personal gifts is also maintained to record gifts to Councillors and staff.
Page 29 STATISTICS & OTHER INFORMATION
SHIRE ROADS
Council Controlled Roads - Km State Controlled Roads - Km Thursday Island 22.233 Horn Island 24.679 Thursday 4.76 Prince of Wales Island 9.440 Island Goode Island & mainland area 19.100
PARKS AND RECREATION
Number of public toilets 7 Number of playgrounds 5 Council is trustee for 45 reserves for 13 different purposes across 10 islands and on Cape York. The total area is 6,420.5536 hectares ANIMAL MANAGEMENT
DOGS AND CATS All dogs and cats over three (3) months of age must be registered annually. Dogs - It is unlawful to keep an unspayed female or male dog unless the owner has paid a higher registration fee. Only two dogs are permitted on any property without Council approval, otherwise an annual permit fee applies for additional dogs. If a dog is found to be roaming in public places without being on a lead, it may be impounded and charges will apply before the animal is released to the owner. Cats - Only two cats are permitted on any property. To register your dog or cat, please contact Torres Shire Council during business hours. Torres Shire Council provides regular veterinary visits to Thursday and Horn Islands – dates of visits are available from Council Reception and are advertised.
Animal Complaints Veterinarian Visits 2013/14 Barking & aggressive No. of animals Total number 15 Number of No. of animals dogs Dates of Visit having other of animals Consultations desexed surgery seen by Vet Straying & excessive 13 numbers Aug 2014 28 10 - 38
Cats 4 Oct 2014 25 4 - 29
Euthanised Animals Dec 2014 19 2 - 21 Feb 2015 23 3 2 28 Cats - feral 64 Apr 2015 23 1 - 24 Dogs - surrendered 26 June 2015 15 - 3 18 Impounded and Released The Council provides a regular visiting vet service including surgery facilities. The animal management officer is licensed to euthanase Dogs 8 animals when necessary.
Page 30 Torres Shire Council Annual Report 2014 - 2015
COMMUNITY SNAPSHOTS 2014/2015 TORRES SHIRE FAMILY FUN DAY AT FRIDAY ISLAND AUGUST 2014
Page 31 COMMUNITY SNAPSHOTS 2014/2015
WINDS OF ZENADTH CULTURAL FESTIVAL SEPTEMBER 2014
Page 32 Torres Shire Council Annual Report 2014 - 2015
COMMUNITY SNAPSHOTS 2014/2015 WELCOME HOME CELEBRATIONS - PATTY MILLS & ARON BYNES SPURS TROPHY TOUR JULY 2014
Page 33 COMMUNITY SNAPSHOTS 2014/2015
OBON (JAPANESE ANCESTRAL) HONOUR CELEBRATIONS AUGUST 2014
REGIONAL NAIDOC AWARDS EVENING JULY 2014
Page 34 Torres Shire Council Annual Report 2014 - 2015
REGIONAL NAIDOC AWARDS EVENING JULY 2014 (cont’d)
Page 35
COMMUNITYCOMMUNITY FINANCIAL FINANCIAL REPORT REPORT
Sources of Revenue – Where SOURCESour money OF comes REVENUE from… Where Whereour money our money comes comes from from…… Total revenue of $17,392,137 was received during 2014/15 year and consisted of OperatingTotal Revenuerevenue of $17,392,137(including wasrates received and charges)during 2014/15 of $15,985,718,year and consisted Capital of Operating Revenue (includingRevenue grants (including & contributions) rates and charges) and ofCapital $15,985,718, income Capital of Revenue$1,406,419. (including Categorie grants &s of revenuecontributions) are as shown and Capital in the income graph. of Capital$1,406,419. grant Categories revenue of rolledrevenue into are as2015/16 shown infinancial the year $350,000.graph. Capital grant revenue rolled into 2015/16 financial year $350,000.
OperatingOPERATING Expenditure EXPENDITURE – Where Whereour money our money is spent is spent…… Operating expenditure of $19,902,000 was incurred during 2014/15 and the categories of OperatingOperating expenditure expenditure of $19,902,000 of $19,902,000 was was incurred incurred during during 2014/152014/15 and thethe categoriescategories of of expendiexpenditureture are as are shown as shown in thein the graph. graph.
Capital Additions and Improvements 2014/15 Council incurred expenditure of $5,611,499 on capital additions and improvements during 2014/15.Page 36 This expenditure included fleet and office equipment purchases, building upgrades, road works construction, water and sewerage upgrades and upgrades to the Torres Shire Sports Complex and Ken Brown Oval Stands.
Annual Report 2014-2015 Page 32 Torres Shire Council Annual Report 2014 - 2015
COMMUNITY FINANCIAL REPORT
CAPITAL ADDITIONS AND IMPROVEMENTS 2014/15 Council incurred expenditure of $5,611,499 on capital additions and improvements during 2014/15. This expenditure included fleet and office equipment purchases, building upgrades, road works construction, water and sewerage upgrades and upgrades to the Torres Shire Sports Complex and Ken Brown Oval Stands. Financial Position as at 30 June 2014 Council’s net worth (what Council owns, less what it owes) is known as Total Community Equity andFINANCIAL at the end POSITION of the ASyear AT was 30 JUNE $163,549,000 2015 represented by Council’s total assets of $169,049,000Council’s net less worth its (what total Council liabilities owns, of less $5,500,000. what it owes) Categories is known as Total of AssetsCommunity are Equity as shown and in the graph.at the end of the year was $163,549,000 represented by Council’s total assets of $169,049,000 less its total liabilities of $5,500,000. Categories of Assets are as shown in the graph.
LOAN BORROWINGS The balance of Council’s loan borrowings as at 30 June 2015 was $1,149,557 down by $275,000 from prior years. Loan Borrowings The balanceCOMMUNITY of Council’s GRANTS loan borrowings as at 30 June 2015 was $1,149,557 down by $275,000No from Council prior cash years. grant was given to any community organisation during 2014-15. However, Council supported several community events through the provision of operational resources including labour, plant and facilities. Community Grants No CouncilCHANGES cash / IMPROVEMENTSgrant was given TO COUNCIL’Sto any community FINANCIAL ANDorganisation ASSETS MANAGEMENT during 2014-15. However,During Council 2014/15 supported the following severalfinancial communitymanagement practicesevents werethrough improved the and provision pursued byof Council: operational• resources Further development including of labour, Enterprise plant Resource and facilities. Planning System – MAGIQ. • Further development of purchasing and inventory processes. • Review of budget against actual revenue and expenses, Council’s liquidity and cash Changes / Improvementspositions, accounts to receivableCouncil’s levels, Financial and capital and works Assets program. Management During 2014/15• Review the offollowing subsequent financial amendments management to various practices policies wereas required improved under and the pursued Local by Council: Government Act 2009 and Local Government Regulation 2012. • Council undertook a complete independent conditioned based valuation of its land, buildings and infrastructure assets. Further development of Enterprise Resource Planning System – MAGIQ. Further development of purchasing and inventory processes. • Review of budget against actual revenue and expenses, Council’s liquidity and cash • positions, accounts receivable levels, and capital works program. Page 37 • Review of subsequent amendments to various policies as required under the Local Government Act 2009 and Local Government Regulation 2012. • Council undertook a complete independent conditioned based valuation of its land, buildings and infrastructure assets. •
Annual Report 2014-2015 Page 33 COMMUNITY FINANCIAL REPORT
TORRES SHIRE COUNCIL SUSTAINABILITY RATIOS 2015 TO 2024
Section 178 of the Local Government Regulation 2012 Financial sustainability statements:
The annual report for a financial year must state—
1. A local government’s current-year financial sustainability statement must state the relevant measures of financial sustainability for the financial year to which the statement relates.
2. A local government’s long-term financial sustainability statement must state—
(a) the relevant measures of financial sustainability for the 9 financial years following the year to which the statement relates; and
(b) an explanation of the local government’s financial management strategy that is consistent with the long-term financial forecast.
SUSTAINABILITY OF COUNCIL In common with many other small local governments, particularly indigenous Councils, Torres Shire is unable to obtain substantial funding from rating. It is therefore heavily dependent on receiving funding from the State and Federal Governments.
Generally, all major new capital projects must receive a substantial proportion of external funding to be viable. This capital funding is reflected in the financial projections on the following pages.
Whilst Council has income to meet its normal functions, it is also heavily reliant on external funding for additional functions. Apart from the Commonwealth Financial Assistance Grant, the funding available is normally highly specific. If such funding becomes available, and Council does not have to outlay a substantial additional amount, Council will provide additional services. Because the nature of the services to be funded cannot be predicted, neither this funding, nor the corresponding expenditure is included in the projections.
The projections show that Council cannot guarantee to continue to provide appropriate services with known and predictable funding sources. Council will endeavor to maintain a healthy bank balance to ensure that it is financially resilient and able to cope with the impact of unexpected events. However increasing operating deficits to provide the minimum level of service and product standard are proving to be increasingly strained with the operating deficit required to be covered by Capital income to create a breakeven scenario for Council.
Part of our plans for the future is to modernize where possible Council’s fleet plant. This will enable Council to carry out works more efficiently and will limit increases in repair and maintenance costs. Further emphasis is being directed towards services/products that will produce a return to fund operating costs. A three percent increase in general rates equates to $30,000.
Page 38 Torres Shire Council Annual Report 2014 - 2015
COMMUNITY FINANCIAL REPORT
TORRES SHIRE TORRESCOUNCIL SHIRE FINANCIAL COUNCIL OUTLOOK FINANCIAL OUTLOOK 2014-2024 2014-2024
Target 14/15 15/16 16/17 17/18 18/19 19/20 20/21 21/22 22/23 23/24
Operating Surplus 0 - 10% -23.1% -8.62% -12.36% -12.31% -12.26% -12.21% -12.16% -12.12% -12.07% -12.03% Net Financial Liabilities < 60% -61.87% -75.6% -78.1% -79.0% -85.8% -90.0% -93.9% -97.9% -101.2% -104.4%
Asset Sustainability > 90% 109.2% 475.8% 65.7% 64.6% 63.0% 61.6% 60.2% 58.7% 57.1% 55.5%
Operating Surplus Revenue OPERATINGAn indicator SURPLUSof the extent REVENUE to which revenues raised cover operational expenses only or are Anavailable indicator for ofcapital the extent funding to pwhichurposes revenues or other raised purposes. cover operational expenses only or are available for capital funding purposes or other purposes. This chart shows that the costs to Council for its day-to day operations are planned to Thisincrease chart slowlyshows thatover the the costs ten year to Council period for in itsreal day-to terms. day This operations is purely are the planned effect ofto inflationincrease slowlyon costs. over Itthe is tenexpected year period that thein realincome terms. will This, in isthe purely long theterm, effect will ofalso inflation keep paceon costs. with It isinflation. expected Due that to the Council’s income lowwill, ratein the base, long itterm, is unsustainable will also keep forpace rates with revenue inflation. to fundDue to Council’sCouncil’s low operations. rate base, Any it is unsustainableexcess revenue for lessrates expenditurerevenue to fund is available Council’s tooperations. be used Anyfor excesscapital revenueprojects lessor used expenditure to offset isa nyavailable past or tofuture be used deficits. for capitalHowever projects where or a useddeficit to exists offset anythan past this or amount future deficits. of deficit However reduces where the depreciationa deficit exists amount than this that amount has been of deficit funded. reduces This the depreciationreduced amount amount is whatthat has is available been funded. for Capital This reduced expenditure amount works. is what is available for Capital expenditure works. There will undoubtedly be new funding for new activities but neither the income nor the Thereexpense will undoubtedlyhas been included be new fundingin the budget for new as activities they cannot but neither be ascertained the income norat the expensetime of hasbudget been preparation. included in the budget as they cannot be ascertained at the time of budget preparation.
Annual Report 2014-2015 Page 35 Page 39
COMMUNITY FINANCIAL REPORT
Cash Balances The blue line on the chart shows anticipates cash balances. Much of this cash is held to CASH BALANCES meet specific obligations, for example grants for future works. Some of it is held as a buffer Theagainst blue lineunforeseen on the chart financial shows anticipates needs in cash the balances.future. The Much cash of this balance cash is heldis generally to meet held Cashspecific Balances obligations, for example grants for future works. Some of it is held as a buffer against between $10m and $15m, depending on the particular situation with grants and expenses Theunforeseen blue line financial on the needs chart in shows the future. anticipates The cash cashbalance balance is generallys. Much held ofbetween this cash$10m isand held to meet$15m,at the specific dependingtime. obligations, on the particular for example situation grants with grants for future and expenses works. Some at the oftime. it is held as a buffer against unforeseen financial needs in the future. The cash balance is generally held betweenThe orange orange $10m line line representsand represents $15m, the depending amountthe amount Council on Councilthe has par borrowed ticularhas borrowed forsituation capital for withexpenditure. capital grants expenditure. Thisand debtexpenses This atisdebt the generally istime. generally reduced reduced over the overperiod the as periodit is paid. as it is paid.
TheThe orangegreen green line lineline represents representsrepresents the netthe the positionamount net position of Council cash lessof hascash debt. borrowed lessBecause debt. for the Becausecapital debt is expenditure.very the small debt in is This very debtrelationsmall is ingenerally to relation the cash reducedto this the line cash closelyover this the follows line period closely the ascash itfollows isline. paid. the cash line.
The green line represents the net position of cash less debt. Because the debt is very small in relation to the cash this line closely follows the cash line.
Net Finance Asset/Liabilities Ratio This is an indicator of the extent to which the net financial liabilities of Council can be serviced by its operating revenue. Net Finance Asset/Liabilities Ratio ThisThe isblue an lineindicator is the ofcurrent the extent ratio. toThis which shows the the net extent financial to which liabilities current of Counassetscil (includescan be servicedcash, accounts by its operating receivable, revenue. and inventories) cover current liabilities (debts that need to be paid within 12 months). The blue line is the current ratio. This shows the extent to which current assets (includes Page 40 Annual Report 2014-2015 Page 36 cash, accounts receivable, and inventories) cover current liabilities (debts that need to be paid within 12 months).
Annual Report 2014-2015 Page 36 Torres Shire Council Annual Report 2014 - 2015
NET FINANCE ASSET/LIABILITIES RATIO This is an indicator of the extent to which the net financial liabilities of Council can be serviced by its operating revenue.
The blue line is the current ratio. This shows the extent to which current assets (includes cash,
accounts receivable, and inventories) cover current liabilities (debts that need to be paid within The12 months).orange line shows the number of months expenses can be paid out of the cash held byThe Council orange. Thisline showsmeans the that number Council of months has theexpenses financial can capacitybe paid out to ofpay the its cash creditors held by when paymentsCouncil. This fall meansdue. that Council has the financial capacity to pay its creditors when payments fall due. The green line shows the proportion of operating revenue used to pay interest. This remainsThe green below line shows2% of theoperating proportion revenue. of operating Council’s revenue policy used is to topay maintain interest. debtThis remainsrepayments belowbelow 30% 2% ofof operatingthe rates revenue. revenue. Council’s In 2014 policy-15, isdebt to maintain repayment debt ($275,000)repayments belowwas 24.69% 30% of ratesof the revenue rates revenue. ($1,113,760). In 2014-15, It peaks debt inrepayment 2021 when ($275,000) all curre wasnt debts 24.69% are of repaid. rates revenue ($1,113,760). It peaks in 2021 when all current debts are repaid.
Asset Sustainability Ratio ApproximationsAsset Sustainability of the Ratio extent to which the infrastructure assets managed by Council are Approximations of the extent to which the infrastructure assets managed by Council are being being replaced as these reach the end of their useful lives. replaced as these reach the end of their useful lives.
TheThe blue blue line line showsshows thethe amount amount spent spent each each year year on capital on capital assets. assets. The orange The orangeline shows line the shows theannual annual charge charge for depreciation, for depreciation, which represents which represents the extent Council the extent is using Council up its assets. is using The up its assets.gap between The gapthe twobetween is the amountthe two Council is the is amount expanding Council its asset is base.expanding Council its is assetmaking base. Councilsubstantial is newmaking commitments substantial to asset new construction commitments with external to asset funding, construction where available. with Thisexternal funding,provides where a solid available. base for Council’s This provides future operations. a solid base for Council’s future operations.
BecauseBecause Council receives receives operating operating revenue revenue to cover itsto operating cover costs,its operating including depreciation,costs, including depreciation,the amount of the revenue amount equal of to revenue the depreciation equal to charge the depreciation is available to charge pay for replacementis available ofto pay assets as they are used up. for replacement of assets as they are used up.
Remuneration to Senior Staff
Section 201 Local Government Act 2009
(1) The annual report of a local government must state—
(a) the total remuneration packages that are payable (in the year to whichPage the 41 annual report relates) to senior contract employees; and
(b) the number of senior contract employees who are being paid each of the total remuneration packages.
Annual Report 2014-2015 Page 37 COMMUNITY FINANCIAL REPORT
REMUNERATION TO SENIOR STAFF
Section 201 Local Government Act 2009
(1) The annual report of a local government must state - (a) the total remuneration packages that are payable (in the year to which the annual report relates) to senior contract employees; and (b) the number of senior contract employees who are being paid each of the total remuneration packages.
(2) A senior contract employee is - (a) the chief executive officer; or (b) any other local government employee who is employed - (i) on a contractual basis; and (ii) in a position that reports directly to the chief executive officer
5 senior contract employees with a total remuneration package in the range of $100,000 - $200,000
INTERNAL AUDIT Section 190 (1)(h) of the Local Government Regulation states that:
The annual report for the financial year must contain the report of the internal audit for the year.
Council passed a resolution at its ordinary meeting on 19 October 2010 to establish an internal audit function. Subsequent to this, Council passed a resolution to establish an internal audit committee in accordance with the Act to oversee the following principles of good governance and financial responsibility. .
Audit Objective To determine whether Council is effectively complying with the legislative requirements under the Local Government Act and related regulations formulated under the Act and relevant better practice guidelines.
Scope of Audit Review the control framework in respect of rosk management, financial compliance, other stipulations relating to legal, regulatory, asset management and assess the adequacy and effectiveness of Council’s policies and procedures pertaining to the following:
• Risk Management and Risk Assessment • Financial Controls • Contracts and Procurement • Asset Management
Page 42 Torres Shire Council Annual Report 2014 - 2015
An internal audit function helps Council to accomplish its objectives by bringing a systematic, disciplined approach to evaluate and improve effectiveness or risk management, control and governance processes in relation to:
• Effectiveness and efficiency of operations • Reliability and integrity of financial and operational information • Safeguarding of assets • Compliance with laws, regulations and contracts
An internal audit was conducted by Local Government Association of Queensland (LGAQ) on behalf of Council using the identified risk areas for 2014-15.
Infrastructure, Community Engagement, Planning/Regulation and Workforce in 2011-12.
If the complete internal audit report is of interest, then contact can be made with Council’s Chief Executive Officer to view the whole document.
APPENDICES
APPENDIX 3 APPENDIX 1 Current Year Financial 43. Financial Statements 91. Sustainability Report APPENDIX 4 APPENDIX 2 Current Year Financial 90. Independent Auditor’s Report 93. Sustainability Audit Report
APPENDIX 1 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Page 43 Page 44 Torres Shire Council Annual Report 2014 - 2015 Page 45 The above statement should be read in conjunction with the accompanying Notes and Significant Accounting Policies.
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Page 88 Torres Shire Council Annual Report 2014 - 2015
Torres Shire Council Annual Report 2014 - 2015 Page 89 APPENDIX 3 CURRENT-YEAR FINANCIAL SUSTAINABILITY REPORT
Page 90 Torres Shire Council Annual Report 2014 - 2015
Torres Shire Council Annual Report 2014 - 2015 Page 91 APPENDIX 4 CURRENT YEAR FINANCIAL SUSTAINABILITY AUDIT REPORT
Page 92 Torres Shire Council Annual Report 2014 - 2015
Torres Shire Council Annual Report 2014 - 2015 Page 93 Page 94 Torres Shire Council Annual Report 2014 - 2015 Page 95 Torres Shire Council 68 Douglas Street (PO BOX 171) Thursday Island, QLD 4875 Ph: (07 4069 1336) Fax: (07 4069 1845)
Disclaimer: Torres Shire Council advises that this publication may contain images of information of deceased Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
Page 96 Torres Shire Council 68 Douglas Street (PO BOX 171) Thursday Island, QLD 4875 Ph: (07 4069 1336) Fax: (07 4069 1845)
Disclaimer: Torres Shire Council advises that this publication may contain images of information of deceased Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people
Torres Shire Council Annual Report 2014 - 2015 Page 97 TORRES SHIRE COUNCIL
ANNUAL REPORT | 2014 to 2015 To lead, provide & facilitate