2 Court Street, Forbes, NSW, 2871 P: 6850 2300 F: 6850 2399 [email protected] www.forbes.nsw.gov.au Forbes Shire Council’s vision is for a prosperous rural shire for the whole of the community to grow, whilst enjoying a clean, safe environment, sustainable services and economic development enhanced by our unique heritage and country lifestyle. The vision for the Community Strategic Plan is that as the plan is implemented, Forbes Shire Council will be a thriving rural centre with a strong sense of community and sufficient level of services to maintain the community’s health and wellbeing.
Forbes Shire leadership comprises the abilities within the community for good Executive Summary
Micromex Community Research 84% Survey 2015 STRONGLY AGREE THEY ARE PROUD TO TELL PEOPLE THEY LIVE IN THE FORBES SHIRE
Developing and implementing the Community Survey Community Strategic Plan Forbes Shire Council administers a Local WORKING WITH THE COMMUNITY Intergrated Planning and Reporting is the framework Government Area covering 4717sq/km, which During 2012-2016, Council was represented on for planning and reporting by Local Government includes the urban area of Forbes plus the village the following external committees: across NSW. The purpose of the framework is to areas of Bedgerabong, Wirrinya, Corinella and Parkes Forbes Business Enterprise Centre, Forbes ensure Councils remain effective, efficient and Ootha. Interagency Group, Forbes Domestic Violence accountable to their community for the works In December 2014, Council commissioned a Comittee, Community Drug Action Team, Forbes and services they provide. The key element is the Community Survey through Micromex Research to Parkes Community Tenancy Scheme, Forbes involvement of the whole of the community in the assess and establish the community’s priorities and Community Transport, Central NSW Tourism, formulation of the Community Strategic Plan. satisfaction in relation to Council’s activities, services Regional Development Australia, Central West The development of the Forbes Shire Council and facilities, to identify the community’s overall Region Emergency Management Committee, Community Strategic Plan commenced in 2011 with a level satisfaction with Council’s performance and Lachlan Health Council, Country Mayors Association, range of consultation activities including information to identify the community’s level of satisfaction with Forbes Medical Centre Advisory Committee, Suicide stands, workshops with Councillors and staff regards to contact they have had with Council staff. Awareness Forum Committee, Aboriginal Education members, establishment of a Steering Reference The sample consisted of a total of 302 residents. Consultative Group, Forbes Aboriginal Working Group made up of community members, workshops The selection of the respondents was by means of a Party, North Parkes Community Consultative with specific interest groups, public workshops held computer based random selection process using the Committee, Forbes Urban Landcare Group, Lachlan in Forbes and the villages of Bedgerabong, Wirrinya, electronic White Pages. Valley Weeds Advisory Committee, Joint Regional Ootha and Corinella and finally a community survey Overall 92% of residents were at least ‘somewhat Planning Panel, Neighbourhood Watch, Community sent to every household in the shire. satisfied’ with the performance of Council. Forbes Environmental Monitoring and Consultative All the feedback received was collated and presented Shire Council received a mean score of 3.75 out of 5 Committee, Forbes Homemakers Centre Project at the Forbes Futures Forum – a large scale public for its satisfaction rating. The mean score for regional Control Group, Forbes Parkes Business Enterprise meeting where the community considered and councils was 3.22 and all of NSW was 3.31. Centre, Forbes Parkes Community Tenancy Scheme, adopted the values, visions and actions which Mid Lachlan Alliance, Lachlan Valley Noxious Plants underpin the final Forbes Shire Community Strategic Advisory Committee, Rural Fire Service Committee, Plan. The Community Strategic Plan has six strategic Council’s Section 355 Committees during 2012- Central West Libraries, Arts Outwest, Murray Darling objectives - Community, Enterprises, Infrastructure, 2016 were: Association – Region 10, Parkes and District Leadership, Natural Environment and Places. Access Committee, Aerodrome Committee, Audit Landcare, Centroc and Centroc Water Utilities Committee, Business and Industry Committee, Alliance, Road Safety/Injury Prevention Committee, End of Term Report Centroc, Environment Advisory Committee, Combined Forbes Liquor Accord, Community The End of Term Report is to provide an update Floodplain Management Committee, Heritage Precinct Committee, Arts Outwest, State Weeds to the Forbes community on what Council has Committee, Plant Committee, Riverside Community Committee, Western NSW Regional Leadership achieved in its four year term from September, 2012 Garden, Traffic Committee, Tree Preservation Network, RTA committees, Central West Heritage to September, 2016. Council also reports on its and Removal Committee, Saleyards Advisory Network, National Saleyards Quality Assurance, progress quarterly and annually during the term. Committee, Services/Works/Community Committee, Lachlan Catchment Management Authority Local This is the first End of Term Report since the Office Sports Council, Tidy Towns Committee, Tourism Government Coordinating Committee, Newell of Local Government introduced the Integrated and Promotions Committee and Youth Advisory Highway Taskforce Committee and Road Safety Planning and Reporting legislation. Committee. Steering Committee. The Forbes Shire Community of people is Community happy, safe, vibrant and well catered for
Most valued aspect of living in the Forbes Shire: ‘FRIENDLY, NICE PEOPLE’
Micromex Community Research 42% Survey 2015
C1 Support the provision of medical and range of events such as Vanfest, the Kalari Lachlan public health services to the community River Arts Festival, Heritage Week, the unveiling of the contemporary sculptures in Albion Park, the During the term, Council distributed $25,500 through National BBQ Championships and a program of fine its Doctors and Nurses Attraction and Retention music concerts at the Forbes Town Hall. Incentive Policy. This assisted 6 nurses and 2 doctors relocate to Forbes.
Council participated in Centroc’s Beyond the Range initiative to promote the Central West region to medical professionals with Federal Minister for Rural Forbes received a brand new hospital and Health, Senator Fiona Nash launching the initiative redevelopment of the existing hospital at a cost at Council’s Jemalong Regional Education Centre. of $40.9 million. The development commenced in 2013 and was completed in 2016. Representations were made by Council to Ministers and NSW Health Infrastructure for a CT scanner and expanded renal Engaging youth in the community continues to be a facilities as well as improved footpath and parking top priority for Council. A significant number of events infrastructure. Council also lobbied for services to be and activities have been supported by Council such maintained in Forbes. as Spectacular Screenings, Big Summer Splash, Children’s Week, Lake Burrendong Camp and Youth Week activities.
Council provided more than $70,000 worth of equipment and repairs in support of the operational model for the Forbes Medical Centre. A joint project funded by Council, Apex Medical Centre and grants has provided a $325,000 extension including four C2 Encourage and support the consulting rooms for trainees, to be completed in development of a diverse community late 2016. The Forbes Youth Advisory Committee has its Council has engaged with numerous service own website and a Facebook page, which has Subsidised accommodation for visiting medical providers and stakeholders through Forbes attracted 326 likers since it was created. The Sound professionals and students continued at Jemalong Interagency and Forbes Domestic Violence Magazine was also introduced and a regular Youth Regional Education Centre with occupancy rates Committee. Council has also organised numerous Chat column appeared in the Forbes Advocate increasing each year. During the Council term events in the past four years including NAIDOC during the term to communicate with the youth in a number of facility improvements were made Week events, Seniors Week events, multicultural the community. including part-roof replacement and refurbishment dinners, International Day for People with The Vacation Care program run by Council ceased of one unit. The two Prince Street units for GPs were Disabilities, Volunteers Week and Australia Day. in 2015 with Council supporting the new Out of fully occupied by visiting registrars from Forbes Council also successfully engaged with arts, heritage School Hours Care provided by Forbes Learning Medical Centre throughout the term. and cultural organisations to provide support to a Ladder. C3.2 Ensure the Forbes Library is a cultural, recreational, learning centre for the community 158,779 BORROWINGS
UPGRADE TO $209,300 FORBES LIBRARY C3.2.3 Identify funding opportunities to improve and enhance the library services
C3 Cultivate a capable and learned facility featuring new shelving, lighting, furniture and C5 Partner with Government and other community an extensive collection of books and digital media. agencies to respond to, and mitigate, community and natural disasters The Grants Officer has assisted more than 60 Council encourages opportunities for traineeships community organisations and individuals with and also supports secondary and tertiary Council provides executive support to the Local funding applications over the four years. The institutions to provide vocational and professional Emergency Management Committee, support the Fortnightly ‘Grants Guide’ has also been a huge work experience across a broad range of State Emergency Services, partners with the NSW success with over 200 groups and individuals in the functions through partnerships with Red Bend Rural Fire Service, maintains the Forbes Aerodrome community receiving the guide via email. Four grants Catholic College, Forbes High School, the University and the Forbes Hospital helipad to facilitate workshops were held for community members and of Newcastle and the University of Sydney. emergency use. groups to help them apply for grant funding. After the flood event in 2012, a flood plan was created in conjunction with the SES and delivered as part of the flood debrief.
C6 Facilitate a safe community within the Forbes Shire
The community survey conducted by Micromex in 2015 indicated that Forbes residents are satisfied C4 Foster community pride with the safe environment within the Forbes Shire, scoring 3.8 with the satisfaction benchmark across Council continues to provide direct financial grants Each year outstanding community members have all LGAs at 3.5. and/or logistical support to community groups across been awarded the Citizen of the Year and Junior Council has been a strong advocate of crime a range of activities through its donations budget Citizen of the Year at Australia Day celebrations. prevention, attending Community Safety Precinct over the term. Council has distributed $207,519 in The Forbes Medal has also been awarded during meetings and partnering with the Combined donations. Forbes Heritage events. Community volunteers Forbes Liquor Accord, Neighbourhood Watch and have been recognised for their achievements businesses to improve community awareness. through award ceremonies during Volunteers Week, Council also hosted a public meeting to raise Youth Week, NAIDOC Week and other special concerns on crime with feedback received events to acknowledge contributions. communicated to the Lachlan Area Command.
The Forbes Library received a $209,300 upgrade in 2015, which included interior and exterior works. The project received an $81,000 State Library of NSW Library Development Grant. The refurbished library now provides users with a fresh modern Forbes Shire Enterprises are successful, Enterprises sustainable and support the Forbes Shire
$40.8 MILLION IN NON-RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT APPLICATIONS
E1 Cultivate a vibrant and robust Forbes Aerodrome Master Plan economy supporting the creation of CWLE THROUGHPUT 2012-2016 The redevelopment of the Forbes Aerodrome jobs and business opportunities Sheep and Lambs - 7.03 million reached a milestone with Council adopting the Cattle and Calves - 409,279 Aerodrome Master Plan at its April 2016 meeting after almost six years of discussion and consultation During 2012-2016 there were 246 development Pigs - 125, 849 applications for non-residential development with a with local aircraft users. The plan includes the total value of $40,767,696 lodged with Council. creation of 36 light aircraft hangar sites and several Council continued to strategically market the Forbes large commercial sites. The subdivision commenced Shire which resulted in substantial growth in the in June, 2016. Other facilities included in the master past four years. In 2013 Council adopted its Local plan for future development are a refuelling facility, Environmental Plan, providing guidelines for all local Central West Livestock Exchange taxiways, services corridor, fencing and an access development in Forbes. The development of these The Central West Livestock Exchange maintained road. plans considered the future direction of Forbes its position as the sixth largest selling centre in growth along with current and future infrastructure NSW. In 2015, the $220,000 sheep yard extensions needs. Internal measures for a refreshed 2016- were opened and Council is currently lobbying for 2021 Economic Development Plan have also been grant funding to extend the cattle yards. developed as part of a review of the original plan. The Central NSW Tourism Destination Management Apex Riverside Tourist Park Plan has also been the basis for consultation Provides an idyllic location on the banks of the documents to attract new business. Lachlan River and has operated in a surplus position and ahead of budgeted revenues at the end of this term. Occupancy rates have been steady over the past four years and a marketing plan has been created to attract more guests to the park. Council continues to provide subsidised During 2012-2016 a number of improvements accommodation for health students and have been made to maximise returns with Council professionals at Jemalong Regional Education receiving a capital grant for the upgrade of the Centre. Over the four year period, the facility has camp kitchen, which Council matched. The total continued to increase its occupancy. A number of cost of the upgrade was $60,000 and included new improvements have been made to JREC including Forbes Homemaker Centre barbecues, seating and tables, an outside TV and a complete upgrade of one of the units and new The Forbes Homemaker Centre opened with new appliances. roofing installed on one section of the building. Bunnings in May 2014 and was joined by Spotlight in June 2014 and Cafe Aglio e Olio in October 2015. The stores have generated in excess of 80 jobs. The second half of the site is currently available for development. Council was proactive in working with and supporting new business, new development and investment prospects during the term. The Central West Industrial Park and Landrace Estate continued to attract potential investors and a number of businesses opened during 2012-2016. $40,000 FORBES IN THE HEART OF THE COUNTRY CAMPAIGN
Visitors contribute on average to $38 MILLION the Forbes community each year E2.1 Market Forbes Shire as a destination of choice and support events with a tourism focus
E2. Visitors and tourists are welcomed visits to attractions, accommodation, retail, food and to marketing Forbes as a destination and this and make a positive contribution to the entertainment providers and significantly increased committee provides valuable input to Council from community and economy the level of stakeholder engagement during the year. the point of view of tourism operators including the museum, accommodation and entertainment. A The Forbes in the Heart of the Country campaign The annual calendar of events was delivered to all number of tourism stakeholders were also engaged and the Central NSW Tourism Destination households at the start of each calendar year from in the marketing of the ‘Forbes in the Heart of the Management Plan provided the framework for visitor 2012-2016. This calendar is also updated in its Country’ campaign as well as a networking event marketing activities. Visitors contribute on average digital version as changes or additions are notified. to encourage businesses to keep their doors open $38 million to the Forbes economy each year. This is also supplemented by the weekly What’s On, during major events such as Vanfest. Efforts of Councillors, staff and volunteers, residents which is sent to a continually evolving database of and businesses combined to promote Forbes 402 residents (as at July 2016) as well as social The Arts has become a genuine differentiator have gradually increased overnight visitation. media and the Council website. for tourism in Forbes through Sculpture Forbes Major events such as the Kalari-Lachlan River Arts events and the exhibition of public art in Albion Festival and Vanfest contributed significantly with Park, including the controversial Pyramid, which 3000 and 8000 people attending and over-nighting continues to attract visitors. The Forbes Town Hall respectively. The Parkes Elvis Festival also brings has also been identified as a unique performance a number of people to town with Council hosting space with a full program of entertainment, which Elvis on the Lake to cater for those staying in Forbes began in 2014. during the festival.
The $40,000 digital agri-tourism campaign ‘Forbes in the Heart of the Country’ was launched in October 2014 and has significant engagement through its own website and the Forbes Central NSW Facebook page. The campaign focuses on agri- tourism, heritage and arts and is aligned with the Throughout 2012-2016, Council has supported a Central NSW Tourism campaign, ‘Unearth Central number of car rallies. Cars, combis, motorhomes NSW’. Council also works closely with Forbes’ only and campervans have all been on display as People visiting friends and relatives is the largest dedicated tour bus operator to develop a number of part of these niche events. Not only do the rallies group contributing to the visitor economy of Forbes. tour packages supporting its tourism strategy. themselves bring visitors to town, the public A deliberate tactic in 2015-2016 was to inform and exhibition of the vehicles attract visitors from across encourage local residents about the activities, Tourism in the Forbes Shire directly employs the region. events and attractions in Forbes through distribution 150 people across a range of activities and is a of the new Official Visitor Guides. Car enthusiasts significant value-add to the local agricultural and Ecological tourism is also being developed with the are attracted to McFeeters Motor Museum, the manufacturing economy. Bird Hide re-development plans and experiences on largest tourist attraction in Forbes,\ which is open Council’s 355 Tourism and Promotion Committee the Lachlan River and Lake Forbes such as fishing, year round. Staff maintained a regular schedule of meetings support a unified and consistent approach canoeing and paddle boating. Forbes Shire Infrastructure supports the community’s quality of lifestyle, enterprises Infrastructure and future needs in a sustainable manner
NORTHERN HEAVY VEHICLE BYPASS $1.1m Forbes Shire Council $2.1m Federal Government Heavy Vehicle Safety and Productivity Scheme $4.3 MILLION $1.1m State Government Fixing Country
EPA licence. All parameters complied at 100% over State Government’s Fixing Country Roads Program the four year period. and the Federal Government’s Heavy Vehicle Productivity and Safety Scheme. Once complete, I3. Delivery of stormwater management the Northern Bypass will shorten road time by services to the community 80km for road train and B-double drivers and will provide better access to the Central West Livestock The Stormwater Asset Management Plan was Exchange, connecting to the Newell Highway. An implemented in 2014-2015. In 2015-2016 numerous investigation into a potential eastern bypass to the stormwater maintenance projects were completed Central West Livestock Exchange, via Littles Road, including the cleaning of the Lawler Street drainage commenced in early 2016. I1. Deliver a secure and quality water network. Work on the drainage extension to South supply to the community Forbes was postponed while investigations are FORBES SHIRE ROADS LEGEND continuing on the possibility of using the Vintage Council has secured its long-term water supply Village as a stormwater detention and development through the $2 million third bore project near the area, which could reduce the size and the cost of Lachlan Valley Way. This bore will be used in times the upgrade required. of water scarcity, severe drought, mechanical failure or contamination, to complement the two existing bores. Increased rotation of the bores will also have the added benefit of reducing pressure on the aquifer. The third bore allows 7 megalitres per day to be pumped into the Forbes Treatment Plant which also supplies the villages of Calarie, Daroobalgie, Gunningbland, Bogan Gate, Trundle and Tottenham. I4. Manage Forbes Shire’s road assets I2. Delivery of quality sewerage management services to the community In 2013-2014 Council obtained a Regional Roads During 2014-2015 Council replaced Bedgerabong REPAIR Grant towards a 1.6km reconstruction Bridge ($205,000) and Thurungle Bridge and Regular operation and maintenance work in the project on Henry Lawson Way. The total project cost repaired Boyd’s Creek, Bridge ($225,000), sewer system has been maintained over the past four was $550,500. Council applied and successfully Bumbuggan Bridge ($215,000) and Straney’s years with minor repairs to the Sewerage Treatment obtained $67,000 Blackspot funding to install Bridge ($43,024). The bridge work was completed Plant and sewer reticulation relining undertaken. 360m of wire rope safety barrier on the outside of as part of the Roads to Recovery Program. Council completed 1.8km of sewer relining of the old a sweeping curve that had a history of accidents concrete sewer mains in 2013-2014, with a further on the Parkes to Eugowra Road. In 2015-16 works 5.1km in the 2014-2015 financial year. Council were completed on the Red Bend Silo Heavy Vehicle embarked on a sewer reticulation smoke testing Route ($1.9M) improving road train access to the program to identify and repair potential sources of silos and grain freight efficiency. Another significant infiltration. Subsequent gauging work demonstrated project during the term was the Roads to Recovery a significant reduction in wet weather inflows. funded 5.1km Driftway Road widening. Discharged samples from the Sewer Treatment Council was also successful in obtaining funding Plant are monitored for compliance with Council’s for the Northern Heavy Vehicle Bypass through the I5.1 Provide a waste and recycling collection service ORGANICS WASTE BIN INTRODUCED 2016
A number of footpaths were also upgraded in the four domestic bins fortnightly, 3245 food and garden developing a final options paper for determination year period including multiple locations in Johnson organics bins weekly, 736 commercial residual bins in late 2016. Street and new footpaths were also constructed weekly and services 276 street litter bins. in front of Forbes Preschool and Forbes North I6. Manage and maintain Council’s core Public School. As part Council’s CBD Footpath buildings and property Replacement Program, new paving was completed in 2015 on Lachlan, Sheriff and Browne Streets. Council created a new Facilities Maintenance In 2016, Council also started review of its existing Supervisor position in 2013-2014 to manage Pedestrian Access and Mobility Plan with the aim maintenance plans and capital works programs. of increasing the participation of residents walking Major internal and external renovations to the and cycling within the Shire. Community input Forbes Library, JREC, Town Pool, Apex Riverside was obtained through written feedback and online Tourist Park camp kitchen and external repairs and surveys. painting to the Town Hall complex were completed Council has had an active role on the Netwaste during the term. Routine maintenance capital works In 2014-2015 Council renewed its previous support Regional Domestic Waste and Recycling Contract were undertaken to Council’s core buildings and for the annual road safety program in line with Management Committee during the term. property during the term as required. Council’s resourcing strategy. Major road safety There were a number of regional initiatives Council programs continued including mock car crashes, participated in through Netwaste including scrap I7. Facilitate a public transport network heavy vehicle breakfast forums, grain harvest heavy metal collection, wood and timber mulching, that meets the needs of the community vehicle campaign, free child restraint fitting sessions household chemical cleanout collection, kerbside and free cuppa for the driver promotion, which has bulky waste collection, Waste 2 Art program, A Bus Stop Policy was adopted in December 2013 in also received a number of awards. regional waste tender, organics management study partnership with the Department of Transport when and used motor oil collection. determining new bus route applications. I6. Provide an efficient waste system Bus shelters were maintained in accordance promoting minimisation and recycling Council has been successful in receiving a number with the Road Asset Management Plan. Council of grants for its waste management. In 2013-2014 obtained funding from the Country Passenger Council received a grant of $262,415 from the Transport Infrastructure Grant Scheme for two new COUNCIL DIVERTED FROM LANDFILL Environmental Trust to assist with the introduction bus shelters located at the Rankin Street and Court of the organics collection and processing service. Lane bus stops. The bus shelter on Calarie Road 28,780 LITRES OF USED MOTOR OIL Council successfully obtained project grants of was refurbished in 2013-14. 1595 TONNES OF SCRAP METAL $93,531 to develop a Community Recycling Facility at Daroobalgie Waste Depot in 2014-2015 and I8. Community is connected to the world 2507.42 TONNES OF DOMESTIC RECYCLABLES received $155,461 for environmental improvements to the Bedgerabong, Ootha, Warroo and Wirrinya The wireless NBN for the urban interface of 11,800M3 OF GREENWASTE MULCH waste depots. Forbes commenced in September 2015. Council 10,123KG OF PROBLEM WASTE has engaged with a number of providers and Council engaged an independent landfill planning local industries about improvement to the consultant to develop a review of the Landfill telecommunication infrastructure of the Forbes The new kerbside food and organics waste service Environmental Management Plan and provide a Shire. New communications towers have been commenced in April 2016 and Council now collects cost assessment of all of Council’s rural landfills. proposed however internet speeds remain 3598 recycling bins fortnightly, 3196 residual Council has engaged the rural communities and is unsatisfactory. Forbes Shire Leadership is sustained throughout Leadership the community and into the future
Micromex Community Research 93% Survey 2015 OF RESIDENTS WERE SATISFIED WITH THEIR EXPERIENCE WHEN CONTACTING COUNCIL
L1. Council’s decision making L3. Council’s operations are efficient, and printer. The introduction of the barcode system processes are open, transparent and effective and provided in a professional has halved the amount of time taken to complete a based on sound integrated planning timely manner stocktake and also reduced the time for finance to produce stock reports. The Operational Plan was revised and adopted annually during the term. All Council procurement Council is now part of the Electronic Housing Code activities were undertaken in accordance with (EHC), which is an online system to investigate, Council’s policies, relevant guidelines and legislation prepare, lodge and track a complying development with all non-compliance monitored and reported application online. The EHC is designed for project monthly to Council. Audit Committee meetings were home builders, certifiers, planners, builders and conducted quarterly during the past four years. To support Councillors in discharging their elected developers; however members of the community can Council’s Code of Conduct was reviewed and duties, all agendas were provided with time for also use the system. The EHC reduces the approval adopted at the December 2015 meeting. review. Briefings were held with Councillors as time for complying development applications as it is required and weekly email notifications were sent accessible 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. L2. Council complies with key legislation regarding upcoming events and meetings. Training governing Local Government opportunities were also made available.
In 2012-2013 all newly elected Councillors completed Council particpated in regional resource sharing the Induction to Local Government Program. initiatives with Centroc including joint electricity Council monitored compliance and implemented contracts, fuel contracts, Central Water Utility recommendations from the Division of Local Alliance, linemarking services, Centroc energy Government’s Best Practice. workshop. Discussions were also held with Lachlan, Weddin, Cabonne and Orange councils regarding Fit for the Future.
To ensure efficiency, Council’s Information L4. Council is a financially sustainable and Communicatons Technology strategy was organisation developed over the four year period for Council’s Council encourages all developers and builders to software design and implementation. A number Council undertakes long-term financial planning attend pre-lodgement meetings with 578 held during of projects adding up to $528,000 have been through its Delivery Program and Operational Plan 2012-16. There were 366 development applications delivered including installation of new network and to ensure continued alignment with the Community and complying development certificates for unified communications infrastructure, DA tracking Strategic Plan. The Fit for the Future improvement residential works worth a total value of $39,235,999 software, an upgraded, expanded infrastructure and plan was adopted by Council in 2015-2016. and 246 development applications for non-residential server environment for Council and Council sites development worth a total value of $40,767,696. such as the Central West Livestock Exchange and L5. Council is recognised as an employer In 2014-2015 Council became an active member CCTV CBD upgrade, ensuring Council’s disaster of choice in the region, supported by a of the Centroc Planners Technical Group, which recovery and operations occur seamlessly. well-trained and adaptable workforce provides guidance in the development of the Regional Growth Plan. A new barcoding system for stock management Council offers a range of training and development Council undertook 1733 dog patrols from 2012-16 was also implemented at the Council Depot, which opportunities to all staff with an updated register of under the Companion Animals Act. . included purchase of a barcode scanner, software all employees skills and qualifications kept on file. WEBSITE PAGE VIEWS 395,472 MEDIA 318 RELEASES
L7.2 Council is committed to keeping the community informed of its decision making
Annual performance appraisals were conducted to following areas: Code of Conduct, Work Health and encourage feedback and positive learning. Safety, Equal Employment Opportunity, Alcohol and Council partnered with registered training Other Drugs and Bullying and Harassment. organisations to provide professional development During the past 12 months, Council has conducted opportunities in Masters Degrees, Bachelor hearing tests for all staff and has also arranged Degrees, Certificates and Diplomas in Civil for the annual flu vaccination to be given to Construction, Business Administration, Accounting, those interested. Council also engaged a new Frontline Management, Project Management and Employee Assistance Program provider, Converge Management and Building Surveying. International, to provide confidential counselling sessions to staff in need. AWARDS AND LONG SERVICE Rewards and Recognition was conducted in 2012 L 6. Council maintains sound safety and and a Service Milestones Award Ceremony held in risk management practices to protect 2015 to reward staff longevity. the organisation, our employees and A new Council website was launched in July 2014 Council participated in the Australian Property the community and provides a feedback option. The new website Institute Awards and was the winner of the State has had 151,203 visitors and 395,472 page views Your Case Pitch at the Local Government NSW An Enterprise Risk Management Plan was started since its creation. Tourism Conference in 2014-2015. in 2015-2016 with the consolidation and review of Council was awarded the Forbes Medal in 2014 for Council’s risk registers. The Business Continuity Council operates three Facebook pages - Find the exemplary restoration of the Forbes Town Hall Plan was reviewed in 2014 and critical functions it in Forbes (1,992 likes), Forbes Youth Advisory At the end of the term, Council submitted an have been included in the plan. Additional Committee (328 likes) and Forbes Central NSW application to the Bluett Award, which identified modifications are being made to refine the plan with (366 likes). The total reach for the Find it in Forbes Council’s achievements over the proceeding 12 a desktop audit scheduled for later in 2016. There Facebook page was 1.3 million people. months. were no disruption events during the term. During the term a number of public meetings were L7. Our community is consulted about held including Fit for the Future, Forbes Preschool Council decisions and informed about development, policing and community safety and Council activities Operational Plan review meetings.
A layered approach to implementation of community Council has also kept the community informed engagement including a customer service standards about its activities via issuing quarterly community review and development by an internal working party, newsletters. continuing maintenance and upgrades on Council’s websites, increasing the number of Council media Local media reach has included the Forbes releases on a weekly basis, increasing the reach of Advocate, the Forbes Phoenix, Prime7 News, WIN Council has a robust and thorough WHS induction Facebook pages through regular posts and relevant News, ABC Regional radio and website, Lachlan program which employees, contractors, work content, well-advertised community meetings at Valley Radio, ROK FM and 2PK. experience students and volunteers are required to Wirrinya, Ootha and Bedgerabong and surveys complete prior to working at Council. Council has involving businesses and community members. Council meeting minutes are made available to also partnered with an organisation who provide There were 318 media releases distributed to the community in a timely manner and uploaded to specialised online training relative to Council in the Council’s media release database during the term. Council’s website. Forbes Shire Natural Environment is managed Environment and sustained in a responsible manner
$4.3 MILLION SPENT ON PARKS & GARDENS
COUNCIL MAINTAINS
30 PARKS
NE1. Use legislation, planning controls and regulations to protect the environment within Council’s sphere of influence
The Local Environmental Plan and Development Control Plan came into effect in 2013. In assessing Development Applications, Council takes into consideration environmental planning legislation and guidelines in accordance to those plans as well as Council policies and other legislation.
Annual reports were submitted to the Environmental Protection Authority throughout the four-year term NE2. Sustainable use and management parks and sporting facilities during the term. showing compliance to the Central West Livestock of our natural resources and open The annual weed control program was implemented Exchange, Sewer Treatment Plant, Water Treatment spaces over the four year period. Major weeds identified and Plant and Daroobalgie Waste Depot licences. sprayed included African Boxthorn, Wild Radish, Open spaces were managed and condition Coolatai Grass, St Johns Wort, Scotch Thistle, inspections completed in accordance with Open Bathurst/Noogoora Burr, Silverleaf Nightshade and Space Asset Management Plan throughout the Spiny Burrgrass. term. A 10-year renewal program was developed in Numerous educational and information days were 2013-2014 with playground infrastructure replaced held throughout the term to promote the awareness at Apex Park and Nelson Parks in May 2014 and obligation and control mechanism of noxious weeds. May 2015 respectively. Council also actively participated in the Lachlan Key features of the new Apex Park play area include Valley Weed Advisory Committee’s education and a toddler climbing structure, swing seats, talk tubes, media campaigns including ECO Day and weed multi-person swings, slides, climbing wall, flying identification days. fox, Galaxia hanging swing and a Liberty Swing, In August 2016, commenced the development of a specifically designed for people in wheelchairs. The Roadside Vegetation Management Plan and Glove Nelson Park playground uprade features a range of Box Guide. The final draft has been completed and play equipment including swings, a fireman’s pole, is scheduled to be implemented in late 2016. a net rope play system, a large pyramid climbing frame, a rotational see-saw, slides, a noughts and The Water Treatment Plant gained 100% compliance crosses panel and a café shop front. New shade for the term in satisfying the conditions of the licence. sails were also installed in both areas. Council continues to undertake the operation of the Daroobalgie Waste Depot in accordance with General Vegetation control was carried out on the licensing conditions. An audit of the facility by state and regional road shoulders, around the the Environmental Protection Agency in 2015-2016 Homemaker Centre, Central West Livestock resulted in a favourable outcome. Exchange, CBD, urban footpaths, drains, laneways, NE3.1 Manage the beauty, natural environment and attraction of Lake Forbes and Forbes Aquatic Areas
$1.3 MILLION SHARED PATHWAY LAKE FORBES
AQUATIC CENTRE BANK STABILISATION $39,000
NE3. Enhance natural water course and Road, joining back into the pathway at Bundaburrah walkway for incorporation into the Lake Forbes Lake Forbes crossing. The total cost of the project was $1.3 master plan. million and was funded 50-50 by Council and grant Council has also conducted a number of events In the final year of the term, Council commenced funding. coinciding with becoming an environmentally the development of a master plan for Lake Forbes conscious community. In 2012-2013, Council and the Aquatic Area. Workshops were held with NE4. Reduce carbon footprint received grant funding to continue the Love Food members of Council’s Environment Advisory Hate Waste Project, which is an initiative of the Committee to identify areas suitable for developing In 2013 Council adopted the Integrated Energy Environment Protection Authority. Free supermarket as part of the master plan. Management Plan and conducted level 2 energy tours with the community dietician were held as audits for the Central West Livestock Exchange, part of the project and focused on packaging and Further bank re-stabilisation works on the main Town Hall and Water Filtration Plant. labelling and the importance of writing a shopping foreshore of the Aquatic Area commenced as list to reduce waste. programmed in mid-2016, however the completion Energy use has been reduced at the CWLE and was deferred due to wet weather. The stabilisation the Town Hall by replacing existing lights with Another initiative undertaken by Council to eradicate product is made with earth filled geofabric bag LED lights. Electricity costs have been reduced by pollution in the Shire is Clean Up Australia Day. Clean containers. Once fully positioned the section of the the installation in 2013 of power factor correction Up Australia Day is held annually on the first Sunday bank will be back filled with earth for revegetation. equipment at the Water Treatment Plant, Town Hall in March. A schools clean-up day is also held on the and the Town Pool. Friday before the community clean-up. The event is always well supported by Forbes residents and over A review of Forbes Shire Council’s energy usage the past three years, the clean-up has taken place was started in 2015-2016. The implementation of around Lake Forbes and Bedgerabong Road. the energy reduced plan is expected to commence in the 2016-2017 year. Energy consumption is monitored on a site by site basis.
NE5. Recognised as an environmentally conscious community
Council’s Environment Advisory Committee continued to address environmental issues and complete actions as identified in the Environment Advisory Committee Strategy 2015-2020, which was adopted in August 2015. In 2014 and 2015, the Environment Advisory Council successfully obtained a grant in 2014 for Committee held a series of workshops to progress the completion of the 10km walking track around the development of the strategy. Aquatic Centre and linking to Lake Forbes. Council received the funding from the NSW Government as Some of the other initiatives of the Environmental part of its program to promote walking and cycling. Advisory Committee included the finalisation of 2012. The shared pathway now extends around the the Parkes Road landscaping plan and identifying aquatic area and continues alongside Racecourse the Aquatic Area for development as a biodiversity Forbes Shire Places are well maintained Places to the community needs
AT LEAST SOMEWHAT SATISFIED WITH COMMUNITY FACILITIES
Micromex Community Research 97% Survey 2015
P1. Community facilities are well beam installed, fencing repaired, gates painted, toilet with a baby change table, one ambulant unisex maintained and utilised new bins installed, irrigation system updated, new toilet and one female toilet. The Lions Park project access road constructed, heavy patching completed, cost $76,000, funded completely by Council from Visitor Information Centre hazardous trees removed, drainage improvements. revenue. The Visitor Information Centre has been a focus The cemetery register is updated on a regular basis. of attention during 2015-2016, particularly as its location, the Forbes Railway Station, received Forbes Riverside Community Garden a maintenance refresh. The long term plan for a The Forbes Riverside Community Garden has been Council operated centre has been part of Council’s maintained and managed through supporting of the deliberations and several potential sites have been 355 Committee. reviewed. The Centre’s operation improved its visitor engagement through better quality materials, Sporting Facilities appointment of new staff and excellent support Council maintains 14 sporting grounds and facilities. from the Forbes Railway Arts and Tourist Centre A needs analysis was undertaken in 2015-2016 to Incorporated volunteers. identify future work requirements. Council, through the 355 Sports Council, worked in partnership with Forbes Youth and Community Centre sporting organisations to help improve facilities. Parks The Forbes Youth and Community Centre continues Improvements and refurbishments were completed Council maintains 30 parks in the Forbes Shire. A to attract regular users and regular maintenance at the netball courts and basketball courts during playground audit was undertaken and a 15 year works have been carried out. 2015-2016. New light poles were also installed at replacement program was developed with two new South Circle Oval. playgrounds installed at Apex and Nelson Parks in Forbes Swimming Pool Council completed patching and refurbishment 2014 and 2015 respectively. The male amenities block was demolished and works on Forbes Netball Courts in May 2016. A rebuilt in October 2014, providing refreshed and review of sporting facilities user agreements was P2. Present a clean, attractive and modern facilities for male patrons. undertaken annually throughout the term. accessible town The pool continues to be well utilised attracting 124,914 swimmers through the gates over the four Public toilets Gardens, landscape and open space areas year period. In 2015-2016 Council constructed two new toilet were maintained in accordance with the Asset blocks for public use at Stephan Field and Lions Management Plan and in line with Council’s Park. The Stephan Field toilet block was completed resources. in March 2016. The first stage was an extension to Council’s 355 Access Committee identified a number the canteen area for the Forbes Netball Association of issues and made recommendations to Council to use as an office and storeroom. The second for the provision of additional disabled parking stage was the construction of the toilet block which spaces, accessibility laybacks to the footways within includes one accessible unisex toilet, one ambulant the CBD. Council undertook a major review of the unisex toilet, one female toilet, one men’s urinal for Pedestrian Access Mobility Plan in 2015-2016 and public use and six unisex toilets. The Stephan Field the plan is expected to be implemented by June project cost $264,000, funded completely by Council 2017. The Forbes Tidy Towns 355 Committee Forbes Cemetery from reserves. The second toilet block constructed ceased in 2014-15 however the Forbes Tidy Town The Forbes Cemetery works improvement program at Lions Park was completed in June 2016. The Group continued as an active community group continued during the term with a new lawn cemetery new amenities at Lions Park include one accessible liaising with Council. P5. Attract new entertainment and recreational facilities
8,000 INJECTION PEOPLE ATTENDED VANFEST INTO THE $2 MILLION ECONOMY
P3. Support facilities in Village areas of heritage significance. During the term assistance accommodation in Forbes. Council also provided a The Grants Officer has played a critical role was provided to the Forbes Library for building shuttle bus service. in assisting village residents to achieve their renovations, the Forbes and District Historical goals, having been successful with nine funding Society for the restoration of the Ivel tractor. Live Life,Get Active applications. Community consultations have been held in Ootha, Bedgerabong and Wirrinya. The P5. Attract new entertainment and priorities identified were used to inform Council’s recreational facilities strategy for support of the villages. Communication assistance is provided as required Vanfest for events and distribution of information. Vanfest was one of the biggest events in Forbes in 2014 and was held again in 2015. Now an annual event, Vanfest is a music festival held at the Forbes Showground with Council providing $30,000 as a A free fitness program motivating locals to get active Gold Sponsor. Businesses and accommodation was launched in September 2015 at Grinsted Oval. welcomed a huge trade and both events have brought ‘Live Life Get Active’ was funded by Council and over $2M to Forbes and accounts for approximately Bernardi’s IGA. The program ran for 200 days and 10% of the annual overnight visitation. This event more than 100 local residents registered to become has a huge positive impact on the local and regional members of the initiative. economy and will continue to grow. P4. Significant heritage sites to be Forbes Arts Society protected and maintained Kalari Lachlan River Arts Festival Forbes Arts Society was the beneficiary of over $36,000 in annual funding from Council. This mainly Council’s 355 Heritage Advisory Committee met on assisted in the staging of Sculpture Forbes and a bi-monthly basis throughout the term. The Ben the $20,000 prize money for the winning sculpture. Hall Festival was held in 2015. Forbes Heritage Forbes is becoming well known for its contemporary Week was celebrated throughout the term and was public art installations and Council provides Albion rebranded to Forbes Heritage in 2016. Park as the site for displaying interesting and controversial installations. Council provided the Council received funding in 2013-2014 from the Town Hall for the Forbes Arts Society’s exhibitions NSW Heritage Office for assistance in engaging a during the four year period and supported the start Heritage Advisor and operating the Forbes Local of the Somewhere Down the Lachlan sculpture trail Heritage Fund. The Heritage Advisor now visits Council provided over $30,000 in support for the and ‘amazing’ sculpture to be installed in Spring Forbes six times a year and has provided assistance Kalari-Lachlan River Arts Festival held in October 2016. to more than 40 owners of items of heritage 2015. Council also supported the event in 2013. significance. There were a range of activities during both festivals Forbes Bird Hide and they attracted crowds of over 3500. Research and concept development was completed The Heritage Advisor also assisted in the judging of in 2015-16 for the Forbes Bird Hide with the aim of the Forbes Medal, facilitated a number of workshops Elvis on the Lake becoming a significant tourist attraction in Forbes. and was involved in Forbes Heritage events During the four-year period, Council has run an Elvis A consultant landscape architect was appointed to throughout the term. Council provided funding on the Lake event during the Parkes Elvis Festival develop and complete a concept plan for further through the Forbes Local Heritage Fund for items because of the number of Elvis fans staying at consultation, which will be completed by late 2016. Councillors Mayor Phyllis Miller Deputy Mayor Graeme Miller Brian Mattiske Chris Roylance Dennis Booth Graham Falconer Grant Clifton Jeff Nicholson Michael ‘Duke’ Jelbart
Executive Staff General Manager Danny Green Director Corporate Services Alison Coe Director Engineering & Technical Services John Zannes Director Environmental & Planning Services Paul Bennett Director Tourism, Community & Cultural Development Richard Morgan