Active Indigo Plan Background Report 2018-2026

Disclaimer

The information contained in this report is intended for the specific use of the within named party to which it is addressed ("the communityvibe client") only. All recommendations by communityvibe are based on information provided by or on behalf of the communityvibe client and communityvibe has relied on such information being correct at the time this report is prepared. communityvibe shall take no responsibility for any loss or damage caused to the communityvibe client or to any third party whether direct or consequential as a result of or in any way arising from any unauthorised use of this report or any recommendations contained within.

Draft Report Date: January 2018

Prepared by Funded by:

This plan has been jointly funded by the Victorian State Government in partnership with Indigo Shire. Wendy Holland

Director communityvibe

PO Box 421

Strathdale Vic 3550

Ph: 0438 433 555

E: [email protected]

W: www.communityvibe.com.au

Contents 1.0 Our community ...... 5 2.0 Context ...... 8 3.0 Physical activity participation ...... 16 3.1 National physical activity guidelines ...... 16 3.2 Indigo Shire data ...... 17 3.3 Victorian data for people over 15 years of age...... 17 3.4 Victorian data for children under 15 years of age ...... 18 4.0 Tools ...... 19 4.1 Town Recreation Facilities Framework ...... 19 4.2 Capital works assessment tool ...... 27 4.3 Criteria for funding non-Council assets on public land ...... 33 5.0 Shire-wide priorities ...... 35 6.0 Town by Town Priorities ...... 42 6.1 Allan’s Flat ...... 42 6.2 Barnawartha...... 45 6.3 Beechworth ...... 48 6.4 Chiltern ...... 53 6.5 Chiltern District – Chiltern Valley, Christmas Town and Cornish Town ...... 57 6.6 Kergunyah ...... 58 6.7 Kiewa ...... 59 6.8 Rutherglen ...... 61 6.9 Sandy Creek and Upper Sandy Creek ...... 65 6.10 Stanley ...... 68 6.11 Tangambalanga ...... 70 6.12 Wahgunyah ...... 73 6.13 Wooragee ...... 75 6.14 Yackandandah ...... 76

1.0 Our community Indigo Shire is situated in the north east of the State, and its main office in Beechworth is approximately 286km from Melbourne and 40 km from Wodonga. Primarily made up of agriculture, manufacturing, viticulture, horticulture and tourism, the Shire covers an area of 2,040 km².

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics 2016 Census, Indigo Shire has a population of 15,952 people, up from 15, 178 at the time of the last Census in 2011. 50.7% of the population is made up of females and 49.3% is made up of males. The median age of residents is 46 years of age, compared with 37 for Victoria. Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people make up 1.3% of the population.

Like many rural and communities, in Indigo Shire the percentage of local residents in their 20’s and 30’s is much lower than the Victorian average. This is the age when a high number of young people move from rural towns to larger regional centres or metropolitan centres for work or study. There is often a return of people, or an influx of new residents in the area from around 40 years of age onwards. This is certainly the case with Indigo Shire. Between the ages of 50 and 74 there is a significantly higher percentage of residents, compared with Victoria, however, unlike some rural areas where the percentage of older adults remains higher than figures for Victoria, these numbers essentially even out from 80 years of age onwards. Given the very high percentage of the population aged between 50 and 74 years of age, it is imperative that sport and active recreational opportunities are available for this age group.

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Percentage of people in each age cohort in 2016

9 8 7 6 5 4 3 Percentage 2 1 0 0-4 5-9 10- 15- 20- 25- 30- 35- 40- 45- 50- 55- 60- 65- 70- 75- 80- 85 yea yea 14 19 24 29 34 39 44 49 54 59 64 69 74 79 84 yea rs rs yea yea yea yea yea yea yea yea yea yea yea yea yea yea yea rs rs rs rs rs rs rs rs rs rs rs rs rs rs rs rs and ove r Indigo 4.9 6.4 6.6 5.9 3.7 3.6 4.2 5.2 6.9 7.5 8 8.4 8.1 7.7 5.1 3.5 2.1 2.2 Victoria 6.3 6.2 5.8 6 7 7.4 7.6 6.8 6.8 6.8 6.4 6 5.4 4.9 3.7 2.8 2 2.2

Based on Victorian Government projections in 2011, by 2031, the population is expected to increase to 16,346 people, which is an additional 394 people over the next 14 years1. However, it may well be higher than this as the forecast population for 2016 was 15,465, when in fact it was 15,952 – 487 more than anticipated.

From a cultural perspective, 84.5% of Indigo residents were born in Australia compared with 64.9% of Victorians. The most common countries of birth are England 3.1%, New Zealand 0.9%, Germany 0.7%, Netherlands 0.5% and Scotland 0.3%. Not surprisingly, 90.8% of people only speak English at home. Of those households where another language is spoken at home, the most common languages are German 0.3%, Italian 0.2%, French 0.1%, Swedish 0.1% and Dutch 0.1%. It is unlikely that information about programs or facilities will need to be translated into community languages in the near future.

Household income of residents in Indigo Shire is a little less than the Victorian average, i.e. $1,265 for Indigo Shire compared with $1,419 for Victoria. Costs for recreational activities need to be kept affordable in order to continue to attract participants.

Employment statistics for 2016 have not yet been released by the Australian Bureau of Statistics. Compared with Victoria at the time of the 2011 Census, there were slightly less people working full time, slightly more people working part time and less people unemployed in Indigo Shire. The top five types of occupation included: professionals (18.9%), mangers (17.3%), technicians and trade workers (14.1%), labourers (12.6%) and clerical and administrative workers (10.6%). The five top industries included: school education (5.2%); hospitals (4.7%); sheep, beef cattle and grain farming (4.1%); residential care services (3.1%); and cafes, restaurants and takeaway food services (2.7%).

1 Victorian Government. Victoria in Future 2016: https://www.planning.vic.gov.au/__data/assets/pdf_file/0015/11463/Indigo_VIF_2016_One_Page_Profile_Outp ut.pdf

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The percentage of people who have undertaken some form of voluntary work in the community in the last 12 months is significantly higher, i.e. 31.3% of Indigo residents compared with 19.2% of Victorians. It is not known how many of these people volunteered for a sports club, but given the figures provided in club surveys, it is expected that a high percentage of volunteers in the Shire are involved in sports clubs.

The average number of vehicles per dwelling is 2.1 and the average number of people per dwelling is 2.4. Transport can be an issue in terms of accessing recreational activities, particularly for older adults.

80.8% of households in Indigo Shire, compared with 83.7% of Victorians have at least one person access the internet from their dwelling. This may be through a desktop/laptop computer, mobile or smart phone, tablet, music or video player, gaming console, smart TV or other device. Although internet access is high, there are still almost 20% of households who do not have access to the internet, hence different communication tools must continue to be utilised, e.g. newspaper articles / advertisements, posters, etc.

Health and wellbeing

According to VicHealth Indicators Survey 2015 Results2, compared with Victorian statistics, residents of Indigo Shire generally experience:

 relatively high levels of general wellbeing and perception of personal safety perceptions;  much higher levels of mental wellbeing (related to resilience, neighbourhood connection and trust and attitudes to gender equality in relationships);  fairly similar levels of physical activity participation; and  less time spent at work being sedentary.

According to the SEIFA scale of disadvantage Indigo Shire has a score of 997 and is rated as the 51st most disadvantaged Local Government Authority in Victoria, out of a total of 80 Local Government Areas, with Central Goldfields Shire being the most disadvantaged with a score of 888 and Boroondara City Council the least disadvantaged with a score of 1,1143. Within the Shire itself, Yackandandah is rated as the least disadvantaged, followed by Beechworth, Chiltern, Rutherglen and Tangambalanga4.

2 VicHealth (2016) VicHealth Indicators Survey 2015 Results. Indigo LGA Profile 3 Australian Bureau of Statistics SEIFA by Local Government Area: http://stat.data.abs.gov.au/Index.aspx?DataSetCode=ABS_SEIFA_LGA 4 Indigo Shire Council (2017) Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan – Statistics, Trends and Priorities

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2.0 Context In order to set the context in which sport and active recreation is provided or occurs in Indigo Shire, a number of Council strategies were reviewed and taken into consideration in the preparation of the Active Indigo Plan.

Council Plan 2017-2021

Council’s vision is:

Indigo: Heritage Shire – Bold Future

The five themes contained within the Plan (and the most relevant objectives) are:

1. People and communities a. Our community members are physically and mentally healthy and active b. Our community members are connected and have equal access to services and to each other c. Our youth are engaged 2. Places, townships and infrastructure a. Our townships and land management are well planned and sustainable b. We have an attractive and well-maintained built environment, streetscapes, open spaces and trees c. Road and path network are maintained and expanded 3. Economy a. Indigo Shire has a growing local economy 4. Environment and sustainability a. We support the reduction of carbon emissions and climate change adaptation and mitigation actions b. We support reduction in community consumption of non-renewable sources 5. Civic leadership and governance a. We form effective partnerships and engage with the community to deliver outcomes

From a recreation plan perspective, the key challenges and opportunities to note are:

 Volunteer groups need support in building resilience within communities, accessing funds, sourcing information and dealing with legislative and government requirements  The ageing population has challenges in terms of accessing services and support, tailored recreation and transportation.  There are higher rates of death from cardiovascular, cancer and respiratory causes in the Shire compared with Victorian, and significantly higher levels of obesity and risky alcohol consumption  Our community exercises less than the state average  Lack of public transport impacts our ability to access services.  The cost of keeping assets at a serviceable level increases each year. There is a need to spend more just to maintain what currently exists, which puts pressure on budgets and service levels.

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 The ongoing impact of natural disasters on our infrastructure, such as roads, bridges, drainage, trails and pathways, need to be considered in our long-term planning.  Water and its use is a concern. We will continue to educate the community on the wise use of this resource and protect its use for environmental, agricultural and urban needs.  Lower levels of funding of Local Government by Federal and State Governments. This includes the Federal Government freeze on indexation of Assistance Grants for the past three years and the Victorian Government's policy to cap rates, which is set at 2% for the 2017/18 year.  Our continuing financial sustainability is at the forefront of all our considerations. The community expects the services and improvements to infrastructure to continue.  Being a rural Council, Indigo has a large number of assets across a large geographical area (for example, an extensive road network, five swimming pools, etc).  Major grant funding programs at Federal and State level are becoming much more competitive.

The most relevant strategic actions include:

1.1.1 Update the pool development plan to consider opportunities for pool enhancements (2018)

1.1.2 Develop recreational waterway use plan for waterways including lakes and rivers across the Shire (2018-20)

1.1.3 Review and implement the recommendations of the Recreation Plan (2017-21)

1.1.4 Upgrade and develop the Chiltern Netball Courts (2017-19)

1.1.5 Conduct an audit and review of play parks across the Shire (2017-19)

1.2.2 Assess community hall facilities (Council and non-Council owned) and develop criteria for funding for non-Council assets (2017-19)

1.2.5 Develop Chiltern Community Hub as per the Chiltern Placemaking Plan (2019-21)

1.2.6 Continue to attract, develop, support and retain volunteers and acknowledge their contribution to the Shire (2017-21)

2.2.2 Review and implement key projects from the Lake Sambell Master Plan including the Chinese Gardens (2018-21)

2.2.5 Finalise the Yackandandah Skate park project (2017-18)

2.3.1 Progress North East region Tracks and Trails extension and enhancements-specifically Beechworth to Osbornes Flat; Osbornes Flat to Huon (2017-21)

2.3.2 Improve bicycle safety initiatives on roads in Capital Works planning (eg sealed road shoulders) (2017-21)

2.3.3 Complete the walking/cycling track from Wahgunyah to Lake Moodemere (2017-20)

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2.3.7 Expand our footpath and cycle path network (2018-21)

4.1.3 Implement energy efficiency strategies in Council buildings and operations eg. LED lighting, installation of solar on suitable public buildings (2017-21)

5.2.4 Finalise and implement the review of Council Committees (2017-19)

5.3.3 Redevelop Council’s website to enhance the quality of information available, customer interaction and self-service (2017-19)

5.3.4 Pursue opportunities for shared services with other councils within our region (2017-21)

5.4.2 Review the Community Engagement strategy including communication methods and activities (2018)

In the 2017/18 financial year, the net cost to Council of the Recreation area is estimated to be $311,000, supported by one Equivalent Full Time (EFT) worker. The parks and gardens area employs 9.53 EFT workers and costs $737,000 to deliver.

According to the Local Government Performance Reporting Framework, the standardised set of performance indicators for aquatic facilities is for each person in the municipality to visit pools between 1-10 times annually.

Indigo Shire (2017) Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan – Statistics, Trends and Priorities This document has been developed to inform the process for the 2017 Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan (MPHWP).

Whilst Indigo Shire residents score well (or at least better than state average) against indicators such as general health status, psychological distress, mental health, social connections, diet, smoking, childhood immunisations, the areas in which some improvement is required in order to improve health and wellbeing are:

 Work life balance - only 43.1% of people report an adequate work life balance in Indigo Shire compared with 53.1% of Victorians.  Weight – 27.7% of Indigo Shire residents report being obese, compared with only 18.8% of Victorians. For Indigo Shire, this represents 24.8% of women and 30.2% of men, compared with the Victorian measure of 17.2% for women and 20.4% for men. [Note that the data from which this information is sourced also notes that people reporting as pre-obese in Indigo Shire is significantly lower than for Victoria overall, i.e. 22.2% compared with 31.2%]  Alcohol use – 58.3% of Indigo residents are at increased risk of alcohol related harm on a single occasion of drinking, compared with 42.5% of Victorians.  Breaches of orders – compared with figures from 2015, there has been an increase of 220% for breaches of family violence orders, intervention orders and bail conditions.  Gender equity – there is a disproportionate percentage of females in leadership positions in the Shire (31.8% compared with 68.2% for males), higher percentage of primary carers who

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are female; lower wages for females despite more females holding tertiary qualifications; higher levels of unpaid domestic work by females compared with males.

Some other points to note include a slightly higher percentage of people with a severe and profound disability living in the community (4.3% in the Shire compared with 4.0% in Victoria); only 2.3% of local residents who speak a language other than English at home compared with 24.2% of Victorians; and 51.2% of residents are aged 45 years or older compared with 39.2% of Victorians. The report also notes the need to enhance connections with indigenous groups and to continue to offer peer support via a LGBTQI Youth Support Group.

Potential Council priorities for consideration in the 2017 Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan include:

 Promote healthy eating at sport and recreation venues and at swimming pool kiosks where food and beverages are sold  Upgrade sport and recreation facilities to meet the needs of the community  Build the capacity of sport and recreation clubs to improve participation in physical activities across the Shire  Create an environment that supports senior citizens to be healthy and active  Develop an access policy to improve inclusiveness for people of all abilities  Promote messages around reducing alcohol consumption and preventing violence against women and promoting gender equity through sport / recreation / community groups and organisations.

Indigo Shire Recreation Plan – Volume 1 (2008)

The recreation service principles developed for the plan are:

 Encouraging participation  Maximising choice and opportunity  Enhancing sustainability  Maintaining equity.

The seven key focus areas and their key goals are:

1. Refining Council’s role a. Redirect Council’s focus for recreation towards marketing, information provision, service planning and communicating with partners, partnering with other providers, matching demand with supply b. Adopt the Shire-wide approach and framework to the provision and support for recreation before focussing on individual township needs c. Support and encourage better utilisation and improvement of existing facilities before investing in new d. Provide recreation planning input into land use planning, i.e. aid the co-location of services, ensure accessible footpaths and off road trails are provided, ensure adequate recreation opportunities are planned in all new developments

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e. Facilitate the service delivery planning and communication with schools, state government and land management agencies, community groups, sports clubs and private partners f. Ensure sports facilities are planned and designed to be viable and sustainable in the long-term 2. Planning to meet increased demand a. Replicate the household survey periodically b. Monitor Shire sporting, demographic and environmental change c. Respond to identified changes in recreation demand and participation d. Partner community groups, community service providers and private partners to deliver recreation and physical activity opportunities to target population groups, e.g. older adults 3. Diversifying swimming opportunities a. Address the provision and condition of swimming infrastructure to enhance its accessibility and functionality – prioritised capital works program, basic service enhancements, cyclic maintenance program, ensuring regulations / standards are met b. Diversify the range of aquatic opportunities and enhance standards of service provided c. Enhance the promotion and marketing of existing swimming pools and their services and programs 4. Encouraging walking and cycling a. Create a hierarchy of off-road tracks and trails to better serve walking, cycling and horse riding activities b. Expand the network of trails by developing additional circuits and perimeter pathways c. Upgrade the Shire Bicycle Plan and investigate opportunities to provide better and safer on-road and off-road cycling routes to meet changes and increases in demand d. Provide additional legitimate places to ride mountain bikes e. Continue to support the use, development and promotion of major and regional rail trails throughout the Shire f. Support and promote local Bicycle User Groups and cycle clubs to encourage greater social participation in regular activities 5. Making recreation accessible a. Seek to establish a hierarchy of recreation facility provision that is closely matched to viability issues surrounding smaller population centres b. Review accessibility of existing community facilities and key parks and recreation reserves c. Improve Council’s knowledge about, and demand and requirements for, recreation activities for people with a disability d. Investigate options for improving community transport connections between townships to reduce pressure on Council to provide new facilities in all population centres. 6. Marketing and information a. Utilise a range of media and information distribution channels to promote shire-wide recreation opportunities. b. Update the Shire website to better promote recreation opportunities and available information. c. Develop an annual calendar of recreation networking opportunities in conjunction with existing providers and peak bodies.

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d. Keep an inventory of recreation facilities groups and activities up to date – publish and distribute – in order to promote recreation opportunities more widely e. Utilise existing Council networks to promote and distribute recreation related information to visitors and residents 7. Maximising the value of the existing infrastructure a. Align the Community Grants Program to match with infrastructure recommendations and priorities and 10-year capital works program b. Encourage greater use of the Community Grants Program by clubs and committees for business, strategic and facility feasibility planning. c. Redefine Council’s role in the provision of recreation infrastructure. In particular, d. focus resources on encouraging and supporting better utilisation and development of existing infrastructure before building new; promoting the benefits of shared facilities, and allocate resources to encourage better shared and multi-use; leading the future planning and design of recreation facilities; assisting committees to consolidate, upgrade, make accessible and replace aging and functionally obsolete facilities; and assisting facility user groups to review scheduling, management, marketing, maintenance and development of facilities to increase use and enhance viability e. Revise Council’s Asset Maintenance Program grant criteria to better encourage facility sharing and promote greater equity. Include a Base allocation, Operational funds based on a number of qualifiers (such as facility sharing), and incentives f. For example initiatives that enhance accessibility; encourage older people or wider range of people to participate; are marketing and information initiatives (including signage); encourage walking/ cycling; increase utilisation of the facility, number of users or length of season; and address water / energy saving/harvesting/recycling objectives g. Increase the funds available through the Asset Maintenance Program by 7% per year until this Plan is reviewed. h. Prepare new guidelines for the Asset Maintenance Program, and Community Grants Scheme i. Support the provision of at least one viable full-size indoor multi-purpose sports court in each main population centre (ie. Beechworth, Rutherglen and Yackandandah). j. Support developments at recreation reserves that promote sharing, maximise facility use, enhance sustainability and encourage greater community participation. k. Work towards an overall reduction in the demand for potable water at sports grounds and recreation reserves. l. Prepare a strategic skate park development program and devise a specific management program for existing skate facilities. m. Continue to facilitate and support the planning and site selection process for the Chiltern BMX facility. n. Support and promote golf opportunities available within in the Shire o. Adopt the tennis facility hierarchy, and prepare and assess capital works requests based on it. p. Continue to support seek State Government funding to improve the quality of netball courts in the Shire. 

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Victorian Planning Scheme

The Indigo Shire Council Planning Scheme notes the following strategies under clause 18 Transport:

 Promote walking and cycling when planning for new suburbs, urban renewal precincts, greyfield redevelopment areas and transit-oriented development areas (such as railway stations).  Incorporate the provision of public transport and cycling infrastructure in all major new State and local government road projects.  Ensure that pedestrian and cyclist access to public transport is facilitated and safeguarded.  Consider all modes of travel, including walking, cycling, public transport, taxis and private vehicles (passenger and freight) in providing for access to new developments.  Encourage the use of walking and cycling by creating environments that are safe and attractive.  Develop high quality pedestrian environments that are accessible to footpath-bound vehicles such as wheelchairs, prams and scooters.  Ensure development provides opportunities to create more sustainable transport options such as walking, cycling and public transport.  Ensure cycling routes and infrastructure are constructed early in new developments.  Improve access to the public transport network by: o Ensuring integration with walking and cycling networks. o Providing end of trip facilities for pedestrians and cyclists at public transport interchanges. o Direct and connected bicycle infrastructure should be provided to and between key destinations including activity centres, public transport interchanges and major attractions.  Cycling infrastructure (on-road bicycle lands off-road bicycle paths) should be planned to: o Separate cyclists from other road users, particularly motor vehicles. o Provide the most direct route practical. o Require the provision of adequate bicycle parking and related facilities to meet demand at education, recreation, shopping and community facilities and other major attractions when issuing planning approvals. o Provide improved facilities, particularly storage, for cyclists at public transport interchanges, rail stations and major attractions. o Ensure provision of bicycle end of trip facilities in commercial buildings. o Develop local cycling networks and new cycling facilities that support the development of 20-minute neighbourhoods o Make better use of roads for all road uses through such techniques as the provision of wider footpaths, bicycle lanes,

Under Clause 19 Infrastructure:

 Identify and address gaps and deficiencies in social and cultural infrastructure, including additional regionally significant cultural and sporting facilities.  Encourage the location of social and cultural infrastructure in activity centres.

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 Prepare Development Contributions Plans, under the Planning and Environment Act 1987, to manage contributions towards infrastructure.  Collect development contributions on the basis of an approved Development Contributions Plan.

Active Victoria 2017-21

Vision:

Sport and active recreation in Victoria will be:

 More active  More diverse and inclusive  Robust, flexible, sustainable and affordable  Broad-based and connected  Collaborative.

Partners will include: not-for-profit; commercial; schools; LGAs; State Government; and Federal Government.

Focus will be on female participation and traditionally disadvantaged groups including Aboriginals, people with disabilities, people with poor health, recently-arrived migrants and those with little English, people with low incomes or living in areas of relative socio-economic disadvantage.

Strategic directions:

 Meeting demand  Broader and more inclusive participation  Additional focus on active recreation  Build system resilience and capacity  Connect investments in events, high performance and infrastructure  Work together for shared outcomes.

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3.0 Physical activity participation In recent years, there has been a shift away from organised sport to more informal recreational activities that can be undertaken in small groups, alone, or at varying times of the day. However, almost half of the population of Indigo Shire (47.7%) does not meet current physical activity guidelines5. Of those who do not meet physical activity guidelines, 45.9% are female and 49.2% are male. On a slightly positive note, the percentage of people who meet physical activity guidelines in Indigo Shire is still higher than the Victorian average who do not, i.e. 54.0% of all Victorians, 56.1% of Victorian women and 52.0% of Victorian men.

3.1 National physical activity guidelines Current physical activity guidelines6 are:

Age Guidelines 0-5  For health development in infants (birth to one year) physical activity – particularly supervised floor-based play in safe environments – should be encouraged from birth.  Toddlers (1 to 3 years) and pre-schoolers (3 to 5 years) should be physically active every day for at least three hours, spread throughout the day. 5-12  For health benefits, children aged 5–12 years should accumulate at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous intensity physical activity every day.  Children’s physical activity should include a variety of aerobic activities, including some vigorous intensity activity.  On at least three days per week, children should engage in activities that strengthen muscle and bone.  To achieve additional health benefits, children should engage in more activity – up to several hours per day. 13-17  For health benefits, young people aged 13–17 years should accumulate at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous intensity physical activity every day.  Young peoples’ physical activity should include a variety of aerobic activities, including some vigorous intensity activity.  On at least three days per week, young people should engage in activities that strengthen muscle and bone.  To achieve additional health benefits, young people should engage in more activity – up to several hours per day. 18-64  Be active on most, preferably all, days every week.  Accumulate 150 to 300 minutes (2 ½ to 5 hours) of moderate intensity physical activity or 75 to 150 minutes (1 ¼ to 2 ½ hours) of vigorous intensity physical activity, or an equivalent combination of both moderate and vigorous activities, each week.  Do muscle strengthening activities on at least 2 days each week. 65+  Older people should be active every day in as many ways as possible, doing a range of physical activities that incorporate fitness, strength, balance and flexibility.  Older people should accumulate at least 30 minutes of moderate intensity physical activity on most, preferably all, days.

5 Department of Health and Human Services (2015) Indigo Shire Profile 6 The Department of Health. Australia’s Physical Activity and Sedentary Behaviour Guidelines: http://www.health.gov.au/internet/main/publishing.nsf/content/health-pubhlth-strateg-phys-act- guidelines#apa1317

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3.2 Indigo Shire data VicHealth Indicators Survey 2015 Results7 show the following level of participation in physical activity within the Shire:

Measure of Physical Activity Indigo Shire % Victoria %

Participation 0 days of physical activity per week 20.5 18.9 4 or more days of physical activity per week 45.4 41.3 Organised physical activity Participation in any organised physical activity 27.1 28.7 Participation in physical activity organised by a fitness, leisure 3.7* 9.2 or indoor sports centre Participation in physical activity organised by a sports club or 14.5 9.8 association Non-organised physical activity Participation in any non-organised physical activity 67.8 70.5 Participation levels in walking 54.5 51.2 Participation levels in jogging or running 13.4 14.0 Participation levels in cycling 18.7 11.8 *Sampling variability with this result was high, therefore needs to be used with caution (relative standard error of 25-30%).

Almost one third of local residents (32.1%) are members of a sports club, compared with 26.5% of Victorians8.

3.3 Victorian data for people over 15 years of age The following table shows the most popular physical activities (organised and non-organised) for people 15 years of age and over in Victoria in 2015-20169. Note that participation refers to taking part in the specific activity at least once in the past 12 months (it doesn’t account for frequency, intensity, membership / casual participation, etc). No current local data is available, however it is anticipated that local data may show higher participation in sports such as yoga, cricket, netball and AFL football in the top ten activities (all in the top 15 activities).

Activity Participation rate (%)

Walking (recreational) 45 Fitness / gym 32 Athletics track and field (includes jogging and running) 16 Swimming 13 Cycling 13 Football (soccer) 5 Golf 5 Tennis 5 Bushwalking 5 Basketball 5

7 VicHealth (2016) VicHealth Indicators Survey 2015 Results. Indigo LGA Profile 8 Department of Health and Human Services (2015) Indigo Shire Profile 9 Australian Sports Commission (2016) AusPlay Participation data for the sports sector – summary of key national findings – October 2015 to September 2016 data: http://static.ausport.gov.au/ausplay/?page=1

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In terms of facility provision for adults, walking / cycling paths and trails, gyms and swimming pools need to be a priority, based on the Australian Sports Commission data. However, there continues to be a place for upgrading sport and recreation facilities.

3.4 Victorian data for children under 15 years of age For Victorian children, the top 10 organised activities outside school hours (does not include other leisure activities such as bike riding) undertaken at least once per year in 2015 were10:

Activity Participation rate (%)

Swimming 33 Australian Rules Football 14 Basketball 12 Netball 10 Tennis 9 Football (soccer) 8 Cricket (outdoor) 8 Dancing (recreational) 8 Gymnastics 7 Athletics – track and field 4

Assuming that children continue to participate in these organised sports in the future and assuming that children in Indigo Shire participate in these activities at an approximately similar rate to other young Australians, there will be a need to:

 Provide access to swimming pools and possibly swimming programs  Provide access to fields suitable for soccer  Provide access to halls and programs for gymnastics and dancing (most likely to be met through the private sector).  Continue to provide access to football / cricket grounds for junior football and cricket clubs; as well as courts and programs for netball, basketball and tennis  Provide facilities for athletics, possibly at existing recreation reserves, in partnership with schools or at a regional level.

Junior sports development programs such as Auskick, Net Set Go, Biddy Ball, Hot Shots, Milo Cricket, Little Athletics, etc have no doubt contributed to the continued popularity of traditional sports of football, netball, basketball, tennis and cricket, and will continue to be in demand in the foreseeable future as a way to develop skills for each of these sports.

10 Australian Sports Commission (2016) AusPlay Participation data for the sports sector – summary of key national findings – October 2015 to September 2016 data: http://static.ausport.gov.au/ausplay/?page=1

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4.0 Tools

4.1 Town Recreation Facilities Framework In order to ensure equity throughout the municipality so that all certain activities, transport availability, costs, etc. Hence this table simply residents, regardless of where they live, have access to recreational lists the level of facility development that Indigo Shire recommends. facilities and open space in close proximity to their homes, a minimum level of facility provision has been developed for the municipality. This Where a community desires a new facility that does not fit within its table also provides a guide for future provision, in terms of what could or category, it may be fully responsible for construction, maintenance and asset renewal costs, unless a compelling case can be established as to should realistically be provided in towns of various sizes. The information in this table has been specifically developed for the Shire, taking into why that type of facility is important and what its catchment may be. consideration: Where a town already has facilities beyond what would normally be expected within its category, when the existing facility reaches the end of  provision and benchmarking of facilities in similar-sized towns in its life, Council may choose not to contribute funds to replace it. rural Victoria The framework is as follows:  the types of activities that currently occur (or may feasibly occur in the future given feedback from local residents and examining statewide participation trends)  population growth  existing facility provision within the catchment (including

neighbouring towns and municipalities).

Note that some towns may already exceed these levels, or community groups or other organisations such as schools may choose to construct and maintain additional facilities. Also note that this table is simply a guide. Actual needs of towns vary considerably depending on the demographics of the town, proximity to other facilities in other towns, specific participation trends, availability of coaches / instructors for

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Facilities – may include Large town Medium town Small-medium town Small towns (over 1,500 people) (800-1,499people) (300 – 800 people) (100-300 people)

Towns in each category Beechworth, Rutherglen, Wahgunyah and Tangambalanga, Kiewa, Osbornes Flat, Huon, Yackandandah and Chiltern Barnawartha Stanley, Wooragee, Indigo Gundowring, Kergunyah, Valley and Allans Flat Sandy Creek and Norong.

Sports oval and change / Yes – developed to a Yes – developed to a May be provided, but will be May be provided, but will be social facilities reasonably high level. medium level. Facility only developed to a basic only developed to a basic Facility provision needs to provision needs to be level. Facility provision level. be guided by relevant guided by relevant needs to be guided by publications including publications including relevant publications building regulations, DDA building regulations, DDA including building and other documents such and other documents such regulations, DDA and other as AFL Preferred Facilities as AFL Preferred Facilities documents such as AFL Guidelines. Guidelines. Preferred Facilities Guidelines.

Netball court and change Yes – one to two courts at Yes – one to two courts at One court may be provided, One court may be provided, facilities each recreation reserve, each recreation reserve, preferably line marked for preferably line marked for preferably line marked for preferably line marked for tennis too. Change rooms tennis too. tennis too. Change rooms tennis too. Change rooms may be provided.

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Facilities – may include Large town Medium town Small-medium town Small towns (over 1,500 people) (800-1,499people) (300 – 800 people) (100-300 people)

provided. provided.

Tennis court Yes – up to six courts with Yes – up to two tennis At least one tennis court for Possibly one tennis court for lights suitable for municipal- courts suitable for local social use or practice. No social use or practice. No level and local competitions, competitions, social use and lights. lights. social use and practice. practice. May have lights.

Bowling green Yes – one facility per town. May be provided, but Generally not provided Not provided May have a synthetic generally lawn. surface, but only if feasible.

Croquet green Possibly one croquet green Generally not provided Not provided Not provided

Golf course Possibly one golf course Possibly one golf course, but Generally not provided Not provided with irrigated putting greens only sand scrape courses. No new facilities will be constructed.

Multi-purpose grass playing Possibly one multi-purpose May be provided, but only Generally not provided Not provided field, e.g. soccer playing facility, but could be to a basic level – possibly at provided by a school. Needs a school. a reasonably good playing surface.

Multi-purpose synthetic Possibly one multi-purpose Not provided Not provided Not provided playing field synthetic field to be provided in the entire Shire, preferably in the largest town and where suitable sports such as hockey are

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Facilities – may include Large town Medium town Small-medium town Small towns (over 1,500 people) (800-1,499people) (300 – 800 people) (100-300 people)

strong.

Shooting facilities Possibly one facility to be May be provided. May be provided. Not provided. provided.

Horse racing tracks Possibly one facility to be Generally not provided. Not provided. Not provided. provided.

Community centres / halls Yes, one or possibly more Yes. May be one in town May be provided, but should May be provided, but should community centres / halls. and one at a recreation only be a community centre only be a community centre reserve. at a recreation reserve or a at a recreation reserve or a hall in the town. hall in the town.

Indoor leisure centres Should be provided but will May be provided but will Not provided. Not provided. generally only feature one generally only feature one court. May be provided or court. May be provided or shared with a school. shared with a school. No new facilities will be constructed.

Gymnasiums Yes. May be provided by May be provided by schools, Generally not, but if they do Not provided. schools, sports clubs, health sports clubs, health agencies exist, they will usually be agencies or the private or the private sector. provided by schools, sports sector. clubs, health agencies or the private sector.

Park with BBQ, public toilet Yes – several local level Yes – at least one local level Yes – one local level park Possibly one park provided and picnic facilities parks to be provided, but park to be provided, provided to a basic level. If to a basic level. If public evenly spaced throughout preferably in a central public toilets (including an toilets (including an the town. Minimum of 0.5 location so that it is accessible one) and BBQ are accessible one) and BBQ are

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Facilities – may include Large town Medium town Small-medium town Small towns (over 1,500 people) (800-1,499people) (300 – 800 people) (100-300 people)

hectares. Maybe one accessible to all. Should provided at a recreation provided at a recreation regional level park - have an accessible toilet. reserve in town, they will reserve in town, they will minimum of 2 hectares. Minimum of 0.5 hectares. not be duplicated in the not be duplicated in the Should have an accessible park. Minimum of 0.5 park. Minimum of 0.5 toilet. hectares. hectares.

Playground with open space Yes – several playgrounds to Yes – a local level Yes – a local level Possibly a local level for ball games be provided, but evenly playground should be playground should be playground provided within spaced throughout the provided within parks and provided within a park or at a park or at the recreation town. One playground also at the recreation the recreation reserve. reserve. should be developed to a reserve. municipal or regional level.

Footpaths Footpaths to be provided on Footpaths to be provided on Footpaths to be provided on Footpaths to be provided on at least one side of each at least one side of each at least one side of each at least one side of each street in town, but street in town, but street in town. Seats to be street in town. preferably both sides. New preferably both sides. New placed in key locations and footpaths in the town to be footpaths in the town to be at regular intervals (500m constructed to a width constructed to a width apart). Footpaths on all suitable for shared usage. suitable for shared usage. street frontages around Seats to be placed in key Seats to be placed in key schools connected to the locations and at regular locations and at regular township footpath network. intervals (500m apart). intervals (500m apart). Footpaths on all street Footpaths on all street frontages around schools frontages around schools connected to the township connected to the township footpath network. footpath network.

Walking / cycling trails One or more off road One off road recreational One off road recreational Possibly one off road recreational trails that trail that provides trail that provides recreational trail that

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Facilities – may include Large town Medium town Small-medium town Small towns (over 1,500 people) (800-1,499people) (300 – 800 people) (100-300 people)

provides opportunities for opportunities for walking opportunities for walking provides opportunities for walking and cycling near a and cycling near a creek, and cycling near a creek, walking and cycling near a creek, river, recreation river, recreation reserve, river, recreation reserve, creek, river, recreation reserve, bushland, etc at bushland, etc at least 5km in bushland, etc at least 2km in reserve, bushland, etc. least 5km in length, but may length. Will feature seats length. be much longer and may and may feature connect to other towns. interpretive signage. Trails will feature interpretive signage, seats, etc. In areas of high use, the track should be sealed.

Commuter route for cyclists A clearly identified east- A clearly identified east- Not provided. Not provided. west and north-south route west and north-south route comprising of on road lanes comprising of on road lanes for cycling commuters. for cycling commuters. There may also be some There may also be some marked on-road cycling marked on-road cycling lanes around schools. lanes around schools.

Swimming pool One 25m – 50m outdoor Possibly one 12m-25m pool Access to a pool within 20 Access to a pool within 20 pool with toddler pool could with toddler pool could be minutes drive from homes if minutes drive from homes if be provided in a central provided in a central possible. possible. location. Consideration location, but only if it could be given to the already exists. No new development of a small pools to be constructed in hydrotherapy pool, but only towns of this size. in partnership with other organisations.

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Facilities – may include Large town Medium town Small-medium town Small towns (over 1,500 people) (800-1,499people) (300 – 800 people) (100-300 people)

Skate parks / BMX / pump One skate park to be Possibly one small skate Not provided. Not provided. park / bike skills area provided in a central park may be provided in a location. central location subject to demand and distance from other skate parks.

Bike skills area / pump park One bike skills / pump park / Possibly one small bike skills Not provided. Not provided. / BMX track BMX track to be provided. / pump park / BMX track to be provided subject to demand.

Lakes / creeks / rivers Possibly a fishing pontoon or Possibly a fishing pontoon Possibly a fishing pontoon Not provided. platform will be developed will be developed to will be developed to to enhance lakes / creeks / enhance lakes / creeks / enhance lakes / creeks / rivers in or close to the rivers in or close to the rivers in or close to the town town. town. particularly in towns with no swimming pools.

Informal recreation Yes – a number of informal One to two informal One informal recreational One informal recreational facilities, e.g. outdoor gym recreation facilities to be recreational facilities may be facility may be provided in facility may be provided in equipment, down ball area, developed dependent upon provided in each town – each town – dependent each town – dependent rebound wall, basketball half community needs. dependent upon community upon community needs. upon community needs. court, outdoor table tennis, needs. etc.

NB: for towns / villages with a population of less than 100, no facilities will be provided, unless they already exist.

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Existing population:

Large town Medium town Small-medium town Small towns Villages (over 1,500 people) (800 – 1,499 people) (300-800 people) (100-300 people) (less than 100 people) Beechworth 3,862 Wahgunyah 1,098 Stanley 362 Staghorn Flat 293 Browns Plains 99 Rutherglen 2,385 Tangambalanga / Kiewa Wooragee 343 Osbornes Flat 236 Corninshtown 97 1,018 Yackandandah 1,812 Barnawartha 904 Indigo Valley 333 Huon 221 Carlyle 81 Chiltern 1,602 Allan’s Flat 318 Gundowring 216 Bruarong 77 Kergunyah 216 Lilliput 76 Sandy Creek 180 Charleroi 72 Norong 123 Chiltern Valley 61 Gooramadda 60 Brimin 46

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4.2 Capital works assessment tool Indigo Shire Council’s asset register lists 43 sport and recreation facilities The criteria upon which projects are assessed include: (excluding playgrounds and school facilities) throughout the Shire. 14 of these facilities are owned by the Shire. DELWP owns the majority of  Strategic planning – the project has a clear link to the Council facilities (29) and other organisations own the remaining three assets Plan and is identified in other master plans and strategic (Chiltern Rodeo Grounds, Chiltern Golf Course and Beechworth Tennis documents. It addresses a gap in provision. Club). Each of the 43 facilities is highly valued by the community and  Design - concept plans or detailed designs have been developed activities that occur at these sites contribute to the health and wellbeing for the proposed facility  Finances – the project has been fully costed and funding partners of the community. identified The challenge for Indigo Shire is to manage, develop, replace and  Benefits – the project is likely to benefit the community in terms construct facilities in accordance with community needs and of health and wellbeing; social interactions; environmental expectations. This in itself is difficult due to considerable demand on benefits; financial sustainability; culturally appreciation and from Council’s limited resources. Hence a tool that enables priorities to be a liveability perspective identified in relation to capital works priorities is essential.  Safety, standards and best practice – the project addresses safety issues, functionality, standards and regulations and adheres Various capital works assessment tools have been prepared by Indigo to best practice (including access, universal design, Shire staff and external consultants over the last ten years. Each of these Environmentally Sustainable Design principles, etc). tools has been reviewed as part of the Active Indigo Plan and new models  Management and usage – the project promotes multi-use and developed – one for facility upgrades and one for new facilities. sharing of facilities / resources and club sustainability. It is supported by well governed clubs with appropriate policies. The purpose of each capital works assessment tool is to set priorities for capital works and planning initiatives on an annual basis. Priorities The scoring system used in this capital works assessment tool is as included in the following tables should be reviewed annually and may follows: alter according to changed community needs and support for specific types of projects as well as funding opportunities that may be instigated  0 = does not meet the criteria by State and Federal Government or other organisations.  1-3= partially meets the criteria  4-6 = meets most of the criteria  7-9 = meets all of the criteria  10 = exceeds the criteria

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The weightings used in this capital works assessment are identified on Rating Status Definition each table. They range from 6-10. These weightings should be reviewed annually. 2 Excellent  no defects  as new condition and appearance The priority for each initiative is developed by scoring each potential 4 Good  minor defects / superficial wear and tear initiative against the criteria, using a 0, 1 or 2. Each score is then  some deterioration to finishes multiplied by the weighting to produce a final score. Priorities for each  major maintenance not required township are then extrapolated from this information. Similarly priorities 6 Fair  average condition for the municipality are also identified from the total scores and ranked  significant defects are evident  worn finishes require maintenance accordingly.  services are functional but need attention For facility upgrades, an assessment of the existing condition of a facility  deferred maintenance work exists is undertaken and this score transposed into the tool. Current condition 8 Poor  badly deteriorated  potential structural problems rating is scored accordingly:  inferior appearance  major defects  components fail frequently 10 Very poor  building has failed  not operational  not viable  unfit for occupancy or normal use  environmental/ contamination/ pollution issues exist

The following tables identify the assessment criteria to determine facility upgrade and new facility priorities:

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Assessment criteria for a facility upgrade Score - out of Weighting Sub-total Comments 10 out of 10 (score x weight) Strategic Planning A Proposed facility clearly links to the Council Plan 9 B Proposed facility is identified in existing master plans or strategic 7 plans C Proposed facility addresses gaps in existing facility provision at 8 local and / or regional level, i.e. encourages a greater diversity of opportunities. Design D Concept plans or detailed designs have been developed for the 7 proposed facility Finances E Proposed facility has been fully costed 7 F Potential funding partners have been identified (including 7 community contributions) Benefits G Proposed facility will enable opportunities for health and wellbeing 9 benefits to occur within the community, including an increase in physical activity participation H Proposed facility will enable opportunities for social interactions to 7 occur within the community I Proposed facility will have a minimal impact on the environment or 7 will provide positive environmental benefits J Proposed facility is likely to be financially viable to develop, 7 operate and maintain K Proposed facility will enable opportunities for the community to 7 gain a greater understanding / appreciation of local culture (Indigenous and European) and enhances / protects such assets wherever possible L Proposed project enhances / protects township character and 6 helps to promote the liveability of the area Safety, standards and best practice M Proposed facility addresses safety issues, functionality, standards 10 and regulations and adheres to best practice (including access, universal design, Environmentally Sustainable Design principles, etc).

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Assessment criteria for a facility upgrade Score - out of Weighting Sub-total Comments 10 out of 10 (score x weight) Management and usage N Proposed project is supported by clubs / organisations that have 7 developed and implemented relevant policies and plans and is well governed O Proposed project is likely to enhance the sustainability of a club / 7 organisation, e.g. through the provision of infrastructure that reduces the burden on volunteers P Opportunities exist for multiuse / sharing of the proposed facility 7 and / or resources between organisations. Current condition Q Current condition of existing facility (refer to current condition 9 rating tool) TOTAL

Key for facility upgrades: HIGH priority projects = 924 or above MEDIUM priority projects = 756 – 923 LOW priority = 567 –755 Projects below 566 will not be considered.

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Assessment criteria for a new facility Score - out of Weighting Sub-total Comments 10 out of 10 (score x weight) Strategic Planning A Proposed facility clearly links to the Council Plan 9 B Proposed facility is identified in existing master plans or strategic 7 plans C Proposed facility addresses gaps in existing facility provision at 8 local and / or regional level, i.e. encourages a greater diversity of opportunities. Design D Concept plans or detailed designs have been developed for the 7 proposed facility Finances E Proposed facility has been fully costed 7 F Potential funding partners have been identified 7 Benefits G Proposed facility will enable opportunities for health and wellbeing 9 benefits to occur within the community, including an increase in physical activity participation H Proposed facility will enable opportunities for social interactions to 7 occur within the community I Proposed facility will have a minimal impact on the environment or 7 will provide positive environmental benefits J Proposed facility is likely to be financially viable to develop, 7 operate and maintain K Proposed facility will enable opportunities for the community to 7 gain a greater understanding / appreciation of local culture (Indigenous and European) and enhances / protects such assets wherever possible L Proposed project enhances / protects township character and 6 helps to promote the liveability of the area Safety, standards and best practice M Proposed facility addresses safety issues, functionality, standards 10 and regulations and adheres to best practice (including access,

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Assessment criteria for a new facility Score - out of Weighting Sub-total Comments 10 out of 10 (score x weight) universal design, Environmentally Sustainable Design principles, etc). Management and usage N Proposed project is supported by clubs / organisations that have 7 developed and implemented relevant policies and plans and is well governed O Proposed project is likely to enhance the sustainability of a club / 7 organisation, e.g. through the provision of infrastructure that reduces the burden on volunteers P Opportunities exist for multiuse / sharing of the proposed facility 7 and / or resources between organisations. TOTAL

Key for new facilities: HIGH priority projects = 834 or above MEDIUM priority projects = 666 – 833 LOW priority = 477 – 665 Projects below 476 will not be considered.

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4.3 Criteria for funding non-Council assets on public land The bulk of sport and recreation infrastructure in Indigo Shire is located at Some State Government funding programs and State Sporting recreation reserves owned by the Crown. In some cases, Council has been Associations require user groups to demonstrate how they will set aside appointed as the Committee of Management (COM) of these reserves. In funds to replace any new assets by establishing a maintenance budget these cases, Council is the land manager and is given control over the and a sinking fund. Training for clubs and committees of management assets and hence, becomes the asset owner. Where Council has not been around asset maintenance and renewal needs to be a focus of Council so appointed as the COM over a crown reserve, it is not the land manager that these requirements, as well as roles and responsibilities of all parties, nor the asset owner. are clearly understood.

When Council invests money into recreation reserves for which it is not The following diagram demonstrates the circumstances in which Council the asset owner, it is essentially providing facilities which it has no will contribute funding to non-Council assets on public land. Under this ownership of or legal entitlement to; instead, the assets belong to the model Council will only support developments on land owned by Parks owner of the land, or their appointed management committee. There is Victoria, DELWP etc which it does not manage and other public land such an argument that Council should not fund structures on public land which as Education Department and VicTrack on the proviso that that it does not manage, but only on land that it is the appointed land organisation is willing to enter an agreement with Council to state that it manager. However, there is also an argument from a community is responsible for the asset, not Council. This helps to eliminate some risk perspective that irrespective of land ownership, Council has a and an asset liability for Council. The model also highlights the fact that responsibility to support clubs to provide facilities on public land that Council will only then support developments if the club or user group is enable the general community to be active. willing to establish a maintenance budget and a sinking fund to replace the asset at the end of its life. This action is designed to ensure that clubs The development of new assets brings with itself a responsibility to / organisations have the capacity to effectively maintain and replace the maintain those assets and the need to set aside funds for asset renewal. facility.

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Is the proposed project on Council No Is the land manager or asset owner (e.g. Parks managed land? Victoria, DELWP, Education Department, VicTrack, etc) willing to enter an agreement with Council to state that Council is not responsible for the asset?

Yes Yes No

Does the club / Proceed with project, subject to feasibility. Council will not support organisation agree to set Provide advice on maintenance budgets, the proposed project up a maintenance budget sinking funds and roles and responsibilities and a sinking fund to of all parties for facilities on Council owned replace the asset at the or managed land. end of it lifespan?

Yes No

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5.0 Shire-wide priorities The following table lists Shire-wide issues and opportunities identified through the literature review, the community consultation, club consultation and key stakeholder meetings. Against each issue / opportunity, is some commentary based on relationship to Council’s vision for an Active Indigo, relationship to planning principles, feasibility / viability, potential duplication, trends, growth, etc. These priorities have been incorporated into the Action Plan in the main body of this plan. Priorities identified through research and consultation:

Issue / opportunity Literature Community Club Key stakeholder Comments review consultation consultation meetings Upgrade public swimming X X Swimming is one of the most popular physical activities pools throughout the Shire undertaken by local residents. There was very strong support to include solar heating, indicated through community consultation to upgrade pools, recreation programs, increase water temperatures, expand the season and also extended operating hours provide additional programming at pools such as water and an extended season. aerobics. Indigo Shire Council is currently working through its Pool Development Plan to upgrade pools.

Increase recreational X X Opening up waterways to recreational use will enable a greater waterway use at lakes and diversity of low cost, place based recreational activities for the rivers across the Shire. community. It will also help to generate economic benefits for towns located near waterways. Indigo Shire will undertake a strategy in 2018 to address recreational waterway access.

Improve play opportunities X X X The Council Plan supports the audit and review of play parks across Indigo Shire. across the Shire. A play strategy which focuses on play value, spatial distribution, inter-generational activities, incidental play, etc would be of benefit and provide free, place-based physical activities for the community and visitors to the area.

Develop criteria for X In order to minimise the assets that Council is responsible for, funding for non-Council but at the same time ensure that clubs and organisations based assets on non-Council managed land have the same access to support

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Issue / opportunity Literature Community Club Key stakeholder Comments review consultation consultation meetings from Council as those that are based on Council owned land, a tool has been developed to outline the process of when Council will and won’t provide support.

Continue to work with X Sport and recreation facilities are key locations for people to clubs and Committees of take part in physical activities. Whilst a clear focus of this Management to upgrade strategy is to better utilise whatever already exists, as opposed sport and active recreation to developing new facilities wherever possible, there is also a facilities throughout the recognition that an investment is required at some locations to Shire. increase access and participation opportunities.

Develop a tool to help X A Town Recreation Facilities Framework has been identified, guide Council and the outlining the level of facilities that will ideally be found in town community in terms of of various sizes. what level of facility provision should reasonably be expected in towns of certain sizes.

Develop a tool to assess X A capital works assessment tool has been developed aligned to capital works development the planning principles in the Active Indigo strategy. Weighted initiatives so that Council is scores are used to prioritise projects. Factors scored against able to develop a include: participation, need, functionality, multi-use / resource prioritised list to guide its sharing, sustainability and funding. capital works and funding programs.

Review the community X The community grants program is strongly supported by the grants program and community. Consideration should be given to developing a incorporate a funding stream within the program that supports physical activity stream specifically for initiatives.

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Issue / opportunity Literature Community Club Key stakeholder Comments review consultation consultation meetings sport and active recreation.

Continue to attract, X X Without volunteers, sport and active recreation opportunities develop, support and within the Shire would be severely diminished. These retain volunteers and volunteers undertake tasks such as mowing, watering, cooking, acknowledge their selling food and beverages, line marking, court sweeping, contribution to the Shire. fundraising, maintaining social media, coaching, scoring and governing sport and recreation clubs and organisations. It is important to continue to attract, develop, support and retain volunteers and acknowledge their contribution to the Shire.

Progress North East region X X X Indigo Shire is currently completing planning for the proposed Tracks and Trails extension extension of the North East region Tracks and Trails product and enhancements- between Beechworth to Osbornes Flat and then Osbornes Flat specifically Beechworth to to Huon. This trail will provide local residents with an Osbornes Flat; Osbornes additional recreational opportunity. It will also provide Flat to Huon. economic benefits for the community through use of the trail by visitors to the area.

Expand the Shire’s X X X X There is significant support by the local community expand the footpath and cycle path footpath and cycle path network in Indigo Shire for recreational network. and commuting purposes. More detailed planning around missing links, connections to key recreational and tourist facilities and safe routes to schools and shopping areas needs to be undertaken, potentially through a cycling and walking strategy. Any paths developed need to be incorporated into the Shire’s asset management systems and schedules.

Improve bicycle safety X X X Road cycling is a popular activity in Indigo Shire, particularly by initiatives on roads. people riding for fitness. To ensure the safety of road cyclists, it

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Issue / opportunity Literature Community Club Key stakeholder Comments review consultation consultation meetings is important that roads are sufficiently wide and that there are sealed road shoulders available, particularly on the most popular routes. Signage warning motorists of road cyclists is also important. Any road upgrades or developments undertaken in the Shire should consider the needs of road cyclists as well as cars.

Work in partnership with X X X Clubs and Committees of Management have identified the cost clubs and committees of of delivering sport and recreation as a key challenge. Clubs management to reliant on electricity and water are particularly impacted by implement strategies to increasing costs of these resources. Ideally Council officers will reduce their impact on the provide clubs and committees with information about environment (including the environmentally sustainable development options and assist reduction of energy use) at with funding applications where applicable. sport and recreation facilities e.g. LED lighting, installation of solar panels on pavilions, installation of synthetic surfaces, etc.

Provide a greater level of X X X Consideration could be given to introducing a model which support to clubs and reduces the amount of compliance associated with being part committees of of a Section 86 Committee. For example, Council could management to enhance establish a lease with Committees of Management and sole governance, planning and club occupiers of sites and then these organisations could sustainability. establish licences with other user groups. Additional support from Council would also be very beneficial and help clubs to remain sustainable and remain a partner in the delivery of health and wellbeing outcomes for the community.

Utilise a broad range of X X Whilst connection to the internet is fairly high in Indigo Shire

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Issue / opportunity Literature Community Club Key stakeholder Comments review consultation consultation meetings tools to promote sport and (80.8% of households in Indigo Shire, compared with 83.7% in physical activity Victoria) there are still people in the community who are not opportunities in the connected or may not see information posted to social media community, e.g. website, sites, Council website, etc. Therefore there will be a need to social media, media continue to utilise a variety of tools to promote physical activity releases, posters, banners, opportunities. etc.

Redevelop Council’s X X X Indigo Shire is currently in the process of redeveloping its website to enhance website. information about local sport and active recreation opportunities.

Pursue opportunities for X X A trend across Local Government Authorities in Victoria at shared services with other present is to undertake regional planning studies for specific councils within our region, sports or trails. This type of planning acknowledges that single in particular regional clubs or single municipalities cannot be seen in isolation from strategies around football, those clubs around them. Planning study applications from netball, cricket and tennis. multiple LGAs are also likely to be more competitive as multiple agencies are involved and can therefore find the required matching funds more easily than one LGA. Examples of regional planning studies include football / netball, cricket and tennis.

Promote healthy eating at X X A key component of physical health relates to healthy eating. sport and recreation Council is in a position of influence in being able to determine venues and at swimming what is or is not sold at the swimming pool kiosks that it owns. pool kiosks where food Already it has reduced / eliminated the sale of sugary drinks and beverages are sold, in and junk food at swimming pools. In partnership with Sport partnership with Sport North East, health agencies and State Sporting Associations, it North East, health agencies could make it a condition of hiring / leasing facilities that there

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Issue / opportunity Literature Community Club Key stakeholder Comments review consultation consultation meetings and State Sporting is a commitment to providing health food in sport and Associations. recreation venues.

Develop an access policy to X X To ensure that Indigo Shire is an inclusive community, an access improve inclusiveness for policy and strategy need to be developed. This strategy needs people of all abilities at to focus on physical access to sport and recreation facilities as sport and recreation well as ensuring the needs of people with other forms of facilities / clubs. disabilities or long-term health issues are considered, including being made to feel welcome, low cost activities, possibly transport and a diversity of opportunities provided at various levels.

Promote messages around X X Key community issues include high levels of alcohol reducing alcohol consumption, violence against women and inequities around consumption, preventing gender. Indigo Shire has the potential to provide community violence against women education about these issues via sports clubs, in partnership and promoting gender with Sport North East, health agencies and State Sporting equity through sport / Associations. recreation / community groups and organisations in partnership with Sport North East, health agencies and State Sporting Associations.

Work in partnership with X X Indigo Shire Council is not traditionally a provider of sport and Parks Victoria, DELWP, recreation programs, other than programs such as Walk to Sport North East, schools, School and Active April. Instead it provides a key role in health agencies, clubs and providing or supporting the development of spaces and places the private sector to where physical activity occurs. It also has a key role in increase the diversity of promoting physical activity opportunities. Through Active

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Issue / opportunity Literature Community Club Key stakeholder Comments review consultation consultation meetings recreational opportunities Indigo and the Municipal Health and Wellbeing Plan, Indigo available in Indigo Shire. Shire now has a clear direction to increase health and wellbeing of the community. It does not have the resources or expertise to undertake this task alone. Hence it should explore partnership opportunities with other organisations such as Parks Victoria, DELWP, Sport North East, schools, health agencies, clubs and the private sector to increase the diversity of recreational opportunities available in Indigo Shire and to achieve shared outcomes.

Ensure that the Planning X X It is noted that Indigo Shire has not detailed any specific Scheme incorporates contribution required under Clause 52 Public Open Space requirements around Contribution and Subdivision of the Planning Scheme. Unless it cycling / walking decides (on a case by case basis) that there is not a need for infrastructure and additional open space, then under the Planning Scheme it can recreational facilities such seek a percentage of the land value not exceeding five percent; as parks, playgrounds, etc seek five percent of all the land to be subdivided as open space; within it. or request a combination of cash and land not exceeding five percent of the land value. Should Council seek land from developers undertaking a subdivision, it is recommended that Council clearly identifies the fact that it will only accept unencumbered land.

Continue to develop X X X Indigo Shire is ideally suited to mountain bike riding due to its mountain bike topography and attractive outdoor settings. Many local opportunities and residents enjoy mountain bike riding and this activity has supporting infrastructure potential to attract visitors from other locations, thereby within the Shire. contributing to the local economy. To continually appeal to mountain bike riders (and attract return visits) it is important to provide new offerings in the format of new trails periodically. It is also important to provide appropriate infrastructure.

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6.0 Town by Town Priorities

6.1 Allan’s Flat

Population: 318

Sport and active recreation facilities

Allan’s Flat Waterhole Allan’s Flat Tennis Club

Needs identified through research and consultation

Issue / opportunity Literature Community Club Key stakeholder Comments review consultation consultation meetings Develop walking track X Walking is one of the most popular activities. This adds around Allan’s Flat another attraction to the waterhole and encourages people to Waterhole. be physically active.

Develop a toilet block near X X Currently there is toilet block on the other side of the

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Issue / opportunity Literature Community Club Key stakeholder Comments review consultation consultation meetings the entry of Allan’s Flat waterhole, but it is too far away from the main area of use. Waterhole. This initiative is supported by the Allan’s Flat Committee of Management Master Plan.

Construct an all abilities X Allan’s Flat Waterhole is used by the general public as well as jetty and fish cleaning the Yackandandah Fishing Club for a variety of activities and table at Allan’s Flat events. The construction of an all abilities jetty and fish Waterhole. cleaning table creates improved access to the lake for fishing by people of all ages and abilities. This initiative is supported by the Allan’s Flat Committee of Management Master Plan.

Install a BBQ, picnic X X This will help improve the amenity, appeal and safety of the facilities, improved beach waterhole and make it more attractive to local people and area, shelter, rain water visitors for informal recreation purposes and social tank, rock bollards, lighting interactions. This initiative is supported by the Allan’s Flat and rubbish bins at Allan’s Committee of Management Master Plan. Flat Waterhole.

Upgrade Allan’s Flat tennis X Tennis courts and club room in poor condition. No courts and club facilities. information supplied by the club. Need more information about number of participants and long term plans of the club.

Develop a clubhouse for X A club house would be beneficial for triathlon events, but was the Albury Wodonga not identified by the triathlon club itself as a priority. Triathlon Club at Allan’s Flat Waterhole.

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Recommendations  Initiate a regional tennis strategy with neighbouring municipalities to identify and prioritise specific infrastructure  Upgrade Allan’s Flat Waterhole as per the Allan’s Flat Waterhole needs at each tennis club. Master Plan, in partnership with local user groups.  Determine the need to upgrade Allan’s Flat tennis club courts and club rooms in partnership with the club.

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6.2 Barnawartha

Population: 904

Sport and active recreation facilities / clubs

Barnawartha Cricket Club Barnawartha Football Netball Club Barnwartha Golf Club (unused) Barnawartha Recreation Reserve Barnawartha Tennis Club

Needs identified through research and consultation

Issue / opportunity Literature Community Club Key stakeholder Comments review consultation consultation meetings Develop a cycling / walking X There is community demand to develop an off road track between recreational trail between Barnawartha and Chiltern or to Barnawartha and Chiltern. widen shoulders on the existing Barnawartha to Chiltern Road.

Develop a BMX / Skate X There are few informal recreation facilities for young people facility in Barnawartha. in Barnawaratha. Consider the development of a BMX / pump park / skate park in Barnwartha.

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Issue / opportunity Literature Community Club Key stakeholder Comments review consultation consultation meetings

Develop an outdoor gym X It is unclear whether or not an outdoor gym would attract a around the town or at the great deal of use. It may be more useful to provide some golf course in intergenerational activities at the proposed playground at the Barnawartha. Recreation Reserve and to focus energies on developing an indoor gym in Barnawartha.

Develop a playground at X A playground would help to create a family atmosphere at the Barnawartha Recreation reserve when sports are being played. Reserve.

Upgrade toilets at X Relatively new public toilets exist on site as part of the new Barnawartha Recreation hub. Toilet upgrade not supported. Reserve.

Upgrade cricket nets at X Cricket nets are utilised by the Barnawartha Cricket Club and Barnawartha Recreation are in poor condition. It is recommended that a multi- Reserve. purpose facility with moveable nets is developed. This can then be used for other activities too by clubs / organisations such as netball, tennis, Futsal, personal trainers, etc.

Upgrade oval surface and X This will enable a safe, quality surface to be provided. A lights at Barnawartha regional football / netball plan will help to guide requirements Recreation Reserve. at this site.

Develop equine facilities at X Exact details of what is desired has not yet been determined, Barnawartha Recreation however equine facilities tend to attract teenage girls and Reserve. women (who are often under-represented in physical activity participation). These activities could occur on the unused golf course.

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Issue / opportunity Literature Community Club Key stakeholder Comments review consultation consultation meetings Upgrade car park, internal X These facilities help to create a more safe and attractive roads and fencing at environment for users. A regional football / netball plan will Barnawartha Recreation help to guide requirements at this site. Reserve.

Develop a gym at X Could explore options to develop a community operated gym Barnawartha Recreation in partnership with the football netball club. Reserve.

Widen shoulders on roads X X This creates a safer environment for people cycling on roads. for cyclists.

 Explore the potential to establish equine facilities on the disused Recommendations Barnawartha Golf Course.  Explore the potential to develop an off road recreational trail  Initiate a regional football / netball strategy with neighbouring between Barnawartha and Chiltern or to widen shoulders on the municipalities to identify and prioritise specific infrastructure existing Barnawartha to Chiltern Road. needs at each recreation reserve.  Support the Barnawartha Recreation Reserve Committee of  Support the Barnawartha Recreation Reserve Committee of Management to develop a playground at the reserve. Management to upgrade the car park, internal roads and fencing  Explore the feasibility of developing a BMX / pump park / skate at the reserve. facility in Barnwartha.  Support the Barnawartha Recreation Reserve Committee of  Explore opportunities to develop a community gym with the Management to upgrade the cricket nets at the reserve. Barnawartha Football Netball Club.  Support the Barnawartha Recreation Reserve Committee of Management to upgrade the oval surface and install lights at the reserve, pending the outcomes of a regional football / netball strategy.

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6.3 Beechworth

Population: 3,862

Sport and active recreation facilities / clubs

Baarmutha Park Recreation Reserve Beechworth and District Hockey Club Beechworth Bowls Club Beechworth Chain Gang (MTB) Beechworth Croquet Club Beechworth Exercise, Activity and Beechworth Football Netball Club Beechworth Golf Club Training Group Beechworth Indoor Soccer Club Beechworth Lawn Bowling Club Beechworth Lawn Tennis Club Beechworth Mountain Bike Park Beechworth Secondary College Beechworth Skate Park Beechworth Squash and Fitness Beechworth Swimming Club Sports Centre Centre Beechworth Swimming Pool Beechworth Wanderers Cricket Club Mountains to Murray Rail Trail Lake Sambell Queen Victoria Park

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Needs identified through research and consultation

Issue / opportunity Literature Community Club Key stakeholder Comments review consultation consultation meetings Construct an indoor X A traditional 25m indoor heated pool is not likely to be heated pool / feasible in Beechworth, or the Shire in general. However hydrotherapy pool. should a health organisation, hotel or an aged care facility plan to develop an indoor heated pool, discussions should occur to explore whether or not it is appropriate for Council to partner with the organisation or whether or not community use can be negotiated.

Develop additional X X To continually appeal to mountain bike riders (and attract mountain bike facilities return visits) it is important to provide new offerings in the and improve current format of new trails periodically. It is also important to facilities (e.g. toilets at provide appropriate infrastructure, such as public toilets at Beechworth MTB Park). the Beechworth Mountain Bike Park. Female riders are unlikely to utilise a mountain bike park if toilets are not accessible on site or close by.

Develop a multi-purpose X X X Council is planning on undertaking a feasibility study to synthetic sports field in determine the feasibility of a developing a multi-purpose Beechworth. synthetic sports ground in Beechworth that can be used for hockey, as well as other sports such as soccer and general sports training for sports such as AFL football. Consideration should be given to constructing this facility on Education Department land if feasible to maximise day time use and to potentially draw in an additional funding source.

Heat the outdoor X X Indigo Shire Council is currently working through its Pool swimming pool in Development Plan to upgrade pools. Beechworth.

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Issue / opportunity Literature Community Club Key stakeholder Comments review consultation consultation meetings Develop the Beechworth X X X This project is supported by the Council Plan and will to Huon Rail Trail (via commence shortly. Once completed, it will connect to the Yackandandah and High Country Rail Trail. Osborne’s Flat).

Develop an indoor multi- X X X X There is already an indoor court at Beechworth Secondary purpose sport and College that is utilised for some after hours sport and recreation facility in recreation activities. The priority is to explore opportunities Beechworth. for greater community use of this existing asset, in addition to identifying other facilities within the town that could be used for sport and active recreation activities.

Develop more cycling X X This action is supported as it encourages active transport and infrastructure. supports one of the most popular physical activities, cycling.

Develop a playground at X A playground at the recreation reserve will help to create a Baarmutha Park. family atmosphere at the reserve on game days / training. It should be considered as part of a proposed broader play strategy.

Extend swimming pool X Indigo Shire Council is currently working through its Pool season and create more Development Plan to upgrade pools. flexibile opening hours and improve the swimming pool.

Upgrade walking track x X This initiative is supported by the Lake Sambell Master Plan around Lake Sambell and and the Council Plan. install additional signs.

Construct an outdoor gym X Research indicates that outdoor gym equipment is rarely

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Issue / opportunity Literature Community Club Key stakeholder Comments review consultation consultation meetings around the Chinese used. A trial outdoor gym (supported by education programs) Gardens or along the Lake could be developed around the Chinese Gardens or along the Sambell walking trail. Lake Sambell walking trail in Beechworth, and if well utilised, rolled out into smaller towns. Alternatively, the development of inter-generational activities in parks should be considered.

Upgrade Beechworth X The club rooms at the bowls club are in average condition and Bowls club rooms. would benefit from an upgrade.

Establish a safe network of X Footpaths are one of the most important recreational facilities footpaths throughout as it enables people of all ages and abilities to take part in a Beechworth and seal more low-cost place-based physical activity with significant health footpaths. and wellbeing benefits. It also helps to reduce greenhouse gases when car journeys are replaced with walking and may also contribute to the local economy.

Construct a pump track in X A pump track is a continuous loop of smooth dirt mounds that Beechworth. can be ridden without any pedalling motion (the rider uses his / her body in a pumping motion to create momentum instead). Pump parks are becoming increasingly popular and often create an entry point to mountain bike riding. It may be worth considering the development of a pump park near the youth facility in Beechworth.

Develop a basketball / X A half court provides an informal recreational activity for netball half court in young people. It may be worth considering the development Beechworth. of a basketball / netball half court near the youth facility in Beechworth.

Irrigate fairways on the X From an environmental perspective, the reduction of water Beechworth Golf Course. for recreational purposes is preferred, where possible.

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Issue / opportunity Literature Community Club Key stakeholder Comments review consultation consultation meetings However, it is also understood that usage of golf clubs is currently low, in part due to the fact that fairways and greens are not irrigated, thereby making golf courses along the Murray River more attractive to players. Regardless, irrigation of the fairways is likely to be costly and unlikely to return a great deal of benefit in terms of additional green fees.

Recommendations

 Explore whether or not it is appropriate for Council to partner  Explore opportunities for greater community use of the indoor with a health organisation, hotel or an aged care facility to jointly sports court at Beechworth Secondary College, in addition to develop an indoor heated pool in the future, or to seek an identifying other facilities within the town that could be used for agreement around community use of such a facility. sport and active recreation activities.  Develop new trails at Beechworth Mountain Bike Park  Continue to develop walking / cycling paths and footpaths in periodically and construct public toilets at the trail head / car park Beechworth to expand the network. area.  Support Baarmutha Park to develop a playground at the reserve.  Undertake a study to determine the feasibility of a developing a  Upgrade walking track around Lake Sambell and install additional multi-purpose synthetic sports ground in Beechworth that can be signs. used for hockey, as well as other sports such as soccer and  Consider installing an outdoor gym as a trial around the Chinese general sports training for sports such as AFL football, potentially Gardens or along the Lake Sambell walking trail in Beechworth, on Education Department land. and if well utilised, roll out into smaller towns.  Continue to implement Council’s Pool Development Plan to  Support the Beechworth Bowls Club to upgrade its club rooms. upgrade public swimming pools.  Expand the youth centre by constructing a basketball / netball  Continue to work towards the completion of the Beechworth to half court and a pump track near the skate park. Huon Rail Trail via Yackandandah and Osborne’s Flat.

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6.4 Chiltern

Population: 1,602

Sport and active recreation facilities

Chiltern Bowling Club Chiltern Football Netball Club Chiltern Golf Club Chiltern Park Recreation Reserve Chiltern Racecourse and Recreation Chiltern Rodeo Club Chiltern Skate Park Chiltern Swimming Club Reserve Chiltern Swimming Pool Chiltern Tennis Club Indigo Adult Riding Club Lake Anderson Lake Anderson Playground Lake Anderson Walking Path

Needs identified through research and consultation

Issue / opportunity Literature Community Club Key stakeholder Comments review consultation consultation meetings Construct additional X X X X $100,000 has just been received from State Government, netball court at Chiltern supported by additional funding from Council and the Park Recreation Reserve community to remove the current single court and redevelop the area to include two new compliant netball courts with lighting to 200 lux for competition. This project is supported

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Issue / opportunity Literature Community Club Key stakeholder Comments review consultation consultation meetings in the Council Plan.

Upgrade change, canteen X The pavilion at Chiltern Park Recreation Reserve is in and social facilities at reasonable condition. The need to upgrade facilities was not Chiltern Park Recreation identified by the Committee of Management as a priority. Reserve.

Install a playground at X The installation of a playground at Chiltern Park Recreation Chiltern Park Recreation Reserve will help to create a family atmosphere at the site. It Reserve. should be incorporated as part of the proposed municipal play strategy.

Improve car parking at X An improvement to car parking will improve safety for all Chiltern Recreation users. A focus should be on promoting active transport to the Reserve. site as much as possible to reduce the number of cars during matches / training.

Upgrade tennis club courts X Tennis courts are in average condition and in need of an and change facilities in upgrade. A regional tennis plan will help to guide Chiltern and install requirements at this site. lighting.

Install outdoor gym X Research indicates that outdoor gym equipment is rarely equipment around Lake used. Instead, focus on developing inter-generational Anderson. activities at the proposed regional playground next to Lake Anderson.

Develop more walking / X X This action is supported as it encourages active transport, but cycling tracks in Chiltern. also provide infrastructure for the two most participated in physical activities: walking and cycling.

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Issue / opportunity Literature Community Club Key stakeholder Comments review consultation consultation meetings Develop a destination X X The majority of Local Government Authorities in Victoria have playground in Chiltern with at least one regional playground which has sufficient activities for all ages. opportunities in it to encourage people to stay for an extended period of time and attracts visitors from other areas. As part of the proposed play strategy, consideration should be given to developing a regional playground in Chiltern, building on to the existing playground next to Lake Anderson.

Develop a gym in Chiltern. X This could be incorporated at the Recreation Reserve, or alternatively as part of the proposed Chiltern Community Hub.

Develop a multi-purpose X This could be incorporated at the Recreation Reserve, or indoor facility suitable for alternatively as part of the proposed Chiltern Community Hub. activities such as yoga.

Heat Chiltern Swimming X X Indigo Shire Council is currently working through its Pool Pool. Development Plan to upgrade pools.

Extend swimming pool X Indigo Shire Council is currently working through its Pool season. Development Plan to upgrade pools.

Enclose the outdoor X This is not likely to be viable for a town the size of Chiltern and swimming pool at Chiltern. it does not meet the criteria of the Towns Recreation Facilities Framework.

Develop Chiltern X X The racecourse at Chiltern is an important social space for the Racecourse as a multi- community and is currently used for a variety of equine discipline equine centre. activities and has a horse racing track, a rodeo area and a ménage. More information is required to determine exactly what is required.

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Issue / opportunity Literature Community Club Key stakeholder Comments review consultation consultation meetings

Upgrade Chiltern Bowling X The Chiltern Bowling Clubhouse is approximately 100 years of Clubhouse. age and is in need of an upgrade so that it meets compliance and accessibility standards.

Develop an additional lawn X The Chiltern Bowling Club reports that as it only has one bowling green at Chiltern bowling green, a number of members are unable to play Bowling Club. during tournaments. The feasibility of developing a second bowling green should be explored further.

Recommendations

 Develop two new compliant netball courts with lighting to 200 lux  Continue to develop additional cycling / walking paths. for competition at Chiltern Park Recreation Reserve.  Continue to implement Council’s Pool Development Plan to  Support the Chiltern Park Recreation Reserve to construct a upgrade public swimming pools. playground at the reserve.  Seek further information on equine needs at Chiltern Racecourse  Support the Chiltern Park Recreation Reserve to upgrade car and Recreation Reserve. parking at the reserve.  Upgrade the Chiltern Bowls Clubhouse.  Upgrade the tennis courts in Chiltern.  Explore the feasibility of constructing an additional bowling green  Develop a regional level playground in Chiltern next to Lake at Chiltern Bowling Club. Anderson which includes inter-generational activities.

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6.5 Chiltern District – Chiltern Valley, Christmas Town and Cornish Town

Population: Chiltern Valley 61; Corninshtown 97; Christmastown unknown

Sport and active recreation facilities / clubs

Chiltern Valley Tennis Club Chiltern Valley Recreation Reserve Christmastown Recreation Reserve Cornishtown Recreation Reserve

Needs identified through research and consultation

Issue / opportunity Literature Community Club Key stakeholder Comments review consultation consultation meetings Develop a cricket pitch at X Need to determine if the recreation reserve is currently being Cornishtown Recreation used for cricket, and likely to be for the foreseeable future. Reserve

Recommendations

 Nil

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6.6 Kergunyah

Population: 216

Sport and active recreation facilities / clubs

Kergunyah Pony Club

Needs identified through research and consultation

Issue / opportunity Literature Community Club Key stakeholder Comments review consultation consultation meetings Develop a commando X Comment received from one person only. Consider course in Kergunyah. development of infrastructure to support informal recreational activities.

Install outdoor gym X Comment received from one person only. An outdoor gym in equipment in Kergunyah. Kergunyah would not be viable. Consider development of infrastructure to support informal recreational activities.

Recommendations down ball area, rebound wall, basketball / netball half court, outdoor table tennis, etc.  Consider developing one informal recreation facility near the pony club in Kergunyah that can be used by the community, e.g.

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6.7 Kiewa

Population: 473

Sport and active recreation facilities / clubs

Kiewa Cricket Ground Kiewa Memorial Park Playground Kiewa Tennis Club

Needs identified through research and consultation

Issue / opportunity Literature Community Club Key stakeholder Comments review consultation consultation meetings Improve cycling / walking X It has been suggested that an Avenue of Honour is planted path between Kiewa and along the cycling / walking path between Kiewa and Tangambalanga. Tangambalanga. This helps to preserve local history and at the same time improve the amenity of the path.

Develop a new pavilion at X The existing pavilion does not meet current standards or Kiewa Cricket Ground, expectations (i.e. it is very small and there is no toilet). Given shared with the tennis the proximity to the tennis club and the fact that the tennis club. club only has a shelter, this initiative is supported, providing that the cricket club and tennis club can demonstrate ongoing

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Issue / opportunity Literature Community Club Key stakeholder Comments review consultation consultation meetings viability and can contribute to the development.

Develop mountain bike X Further work is required to identify what types of mountain riding / BMX opportunities bike riding / BMX riding opportunities are desired by the around Kiewa – community in the local area. Tangambalanga with supporting facilities.

Create access to the Kiewa X X X Access to waterways such as the Kiewa River for recreational River. activities such as fishing, swimming, canoeing, etc has been identified through community consultation and the Council Plan as a priority. It creates new low-cost, place-based activities for locals and visitors to the area. Council intends to undertake a study in the near future to identify what is required to create greater access to waterways.

Upgrade tennis courts at X The tennis courts at Kiewa are in average condition. A Kiewa. regional tennis plan will help to guide requirements at this site.

Recommendations  Upgrade the Kiewa tennis courts, subject to the outcome of the regional tennis plan.  Plant an Avenue of Honour along the cycling / walking path  Further research what types of mountain bike riding / BMX riding between Kiewa and Tangambalanga to help preserve local history opportunities are desired by the community in the local area. and at the same time improve the amenity of the path.  Create better public access to the Kiewa River for recreational  Develop a shared cricket / tennis pavilion in Kiewa, providing that purposes. both clubs can demonstrate ongoing viability and can contribute to the development.

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6.8 Rutherglen

Population: 2,385

Sport and active recreation facilities / clubs

Barkly Park Recreation Reserve Lake King Lake King Walking Path Lake Moodemere Murray to Mountains Rail Trail Rutherglen Badminton Club Rutherglen Bowling Club Rutherglen Football Netball Club Rutherglen Golf Club Rutherglen Hockey Club Rutherglen Lake Rowing Club Rutherglen Park Recreation Reserve / Showgrounds Rutherglen Park playground Rutherglen Racecourse Rutherglen Skate Park Rutherglen Swimming Club Rutherglen Swimming Pool Rutherglen Tennis Club

Needs identified through research and consultation

Issue / opportunity Literature Community Club Key stakeholder Comments review consultation consultation meetings Upgrade clubrooms at X X X A priority of the Barkly Park Committee of Management is to Barkly Park Recreation upgrade the clubrooms at the reserve. A female friendly Reserve. change facility upgrade is about to occur at Barkly Park.

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Construct a playground at X The construction of a playground and Barkly Park Recreation Barkly Park Recreation Reserve will help to create a family-friendly environment at Reserve. the reserve. This should be incorporated into the proposed municipal play strategy.

Convert Rutherglen X Plans are currently underway to determine the feasibility of Hockey ground to a developing a multi-use synthetic sports ground in synthetic surface. Beechworth. It is unlikely that the Shire can support two multi-use synthetic sports grounds. Such facilities are expensive to construct and need to be replaced every 10-15 years, depending on use. This is a significant cost for user groups. No feedback was received from the hockey club to support this idea.

Upgrade Henderson X It is unclear what works are required to upgrade Henderson Pavilion. Pavilion. Further investigation is required.

Improve and extend X This action is supported as it encourages active transport, but footpath and cycling also provide infrastructure for the two most participated in network in Rutherglen. physical activities: walking and cycling.

Upgrade Rutherglen Skate X There is strong support locally for an expansion of the skate Park. park in Rutherglen.

Increase community use of X Discussions need to occur to explore opportunities to increase community centre at community usage of the community centre at Rutherglen Rutherglen Secondary Secondary College and to develop a Memorandum of College. Understanding to support the partnership and its processes.

Improve play opportunities X These initiatives would be identified in a municipal play in Rutherglen, e.g. splash strategy. park and natural, musical and tactile elements.

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Upgrade oval lighting at X An improvement to lighting is required to enable training and Barkly Park. / or night matches on the oval. Additional community use will need to be identified in order to be considered for external funding grants.

Construct a cricket pitch at X X Plans are already underway to construct a cricket pitch at the the Showgrounds Oval. Showgrounds oval.

Support upgrade of change X X The existing change rooms at Lake Moodemere are in poor rooms at Lake Moodemere condition. In order to provide a better standard of amenity Rowing Club. for local rowers and to attract rowing regatta events, an upgrade of the change facilities is necessary.

Develop programs at X Programs at the swimming pool such as family BBQs, dive in Rutherglen Swimming movies, fun days with inflatable equipment, swimming lessons Pool. and water aerobics help to increase participation in physical activity and should be encouraged.

Construct a netball court X There is already one netball court at Barkly Park Recreation at Barkly Park Recreation Reserve. There is no space in the vicinity of the existing court Reserve. to develop a new one. The only space available on the site is where the old netball courts were located near the entrance. This initiative has not been identified by the Committee of Management as a priority.

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Recommendations  Explore opportunities to increase community usage of the community centre at Rutherglen Secondary College and to  Continue to implement Council’s Pool Development Plan to develop a Memorandum of Understanding to support the upgrade public swimming pools. partnership and its processes.  Upgrade the clubrooms at Barkly Park Recreation Reserve.  Upgrade lighting at Barkly Park Recreation Reserve to enable  Support the construction of a playground at Barkly Park training and / or night matches on the oval and other community Recreation Reserve events.  Further investigate any upgrade requirements at Henderson  Support upgrade the change rooms at Lake Moodemere Rowing Pavilion. Club  Continue to develop and improve the cycling / walking network  Instigate programs at Rutherglen Swimming Pool to encourage around Rutherglen. greater participation in physical activity.  Work in partnership with young people to upgrade the Rutherglen skate park.

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6.9 Sandy Creek and Upper Sandy Creek

Population: 180

Sport and active recreation facilities / clubs

Paragliding club Sandy Creek Pony Club Sandy Creek Recreation Reserve Upper Sandy Creek Tennis Club

Needs identified through research and consultation

Issue / opportunity Literature Community Club Key stakeholder Comments review consultation consultation meetings Develop netball change X X This is the highest priority of the Committee of Management. facilities at Sandy Creek Consideration should be given to utilising portable facilities Recreation Reserve. which can be relocated in the future if no longer required. A regional football / netball plan will help to guide requirements at this site.

Upgrade netball court at X A regional football / netball plan will help to guide Sandy Creek Recreation requirements at this site. Reserve (to repair damage

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Issue / opportunity Literature Community Club Key stakeholder Comments review consultation consultation meetings caused by tree roots).

Upgrade football change X X It is understood that the Committee of Management hopes to facilities so that they are hold practice football matches for the Ovens / Murray League female friendly / gender at the site in the future. A regional football / netball plan will neutral; meeting room; help to guide requirements at this site. and kitchen / kiosk at Sandy Creek Recreation Reserve.

Install more seats and X A regional football / netball plan will help to guide shade around the requirements at this site. perimeter of the oval at Sandy Creek Recreation Reserve.

Develop a toilet block with X A regional football / netball plan will help to guide baby change facilities on requirements at this site. the opposite side to the pavilion at Sandy Creek Recreation Reserve.

Construct a shelter for the X As a regular user of this site, a shelter is a low cost item that pony club at Sandy Creek will enable members of the pony club to shelter from rain or Recreation Reserve. the sun.

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Recommendations  Explore opportunities to acquire a portable facility suitable to be used as netball change facilities for finals at Sandy Creek.  Initiate a regional football / netball strategy with neighbouring  Support Sandy Creek Recreation Reserve to construct a shelter municipalities to identify and prioritise specific infrastructure for the pony club at the Reserve. needs at each recreation reserve.

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6.10 Stanley

Population: 362

Sport and active recreation facilities / clubs

Stanley Recreation Reserve Stanley Tennis Club Equestrian area

Needs identified through research and consultation

Issue / opportunity Literature Community Club Key stakeholder Audit of Comments review consultation consultation meetings facilities Develop additional X X To continually appeal to mountain bike riders mountain bike tracks. (and attract return visits) it is important to provide new offerings in the format of new trails periodically. It is also important to provide appropriate infrastructure, such as public toilets at the Beechworth Mountain Bike Park near Stanley.

Develop an off road cycling X Concern was expressed by some local residents track from Stanley to about the number of people who ride from

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Issue / opportunity Literature Community Club Key stakeholder Audit of Comments review consultation consultation meetings facilities Beechworth. Beechworth to Stanley along a very narrow road. Ideally an off road track will be developed between the two towns if feasible.

Recommendations  Explore the feasibility of developing an off road trail between Beechworth and Stanley.  Develop new trails at Beechworth Mountain Bike Park near Stanley periodically and construct public toilets at the trail head / car park area.

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6.11 Tangambalanga

Population: 545

Sport and active recreation facilities / clubs

Coulston Park Recreation Reserve Kiewa-Sandy Creek Football Netball Kiewa Valley Bowls Club Tangambalanga Playground Club Tangambalanga Skate Park Tangambalanga Swimming Pool Tangambalanga Tennis Club

Needs identified through research and consultation

Issue / opportunity Literature Community Club Key stakeholder Comments review consultation consultation meetings Develop a second netball X Need to determine the feasibility of developing a second court at Coulston Park. netball court and whether or not space is available on site (taking into consideration the need to position a court north- south, rather than east-west). Pending the requirements of tennis long term in regards to surface type, it may be worth converting the artificial grass courts to a hard court surface, or alternatively, when the hard courts are upgraded, they should

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Issue / opportunity Literature Community Club Key stakeholder Comments review consultation consultation meetings also be line marked for netball. Multi-use with other sports / activities will need to be demonstrated. A regional football / netball plan will help to guide requirements at this site.

Upgrade hard courts at X X In order to attract external funding to upgrade the hard Tangambalanga Tennis courts, multi-use will need to be demonstrated. Club. Consideration should be given to line marking new courts with netball court markings. Other potential uses should also be explored. Consideration should also be given to participation numbers and the number of courts required before embarking on any further works. A regional tennis plan will help to guide requirements at this site.

Install lights on Coulston X X Need to identify the likelihood of night games being held at Park oval suitable for night Coulston Park to determine whether or not lighting suitable football and construct a for matches is required. Multi-use of the oval for other new coach’s box. community activities will also need to be identified. A regional football / netball plan will help to guide requirements at this site.

Establish a girls’ football X This initiative needs to be driven by the community. It should team at Kiewa – be supported, providing that a sufficient number of girls are Tangambalanga. available locally to form a team. Consideration needs to be given to providing access to grounds for games and training, as well as suitable change facilities.

Extend opening hours and X Indigo Shire Council is currently working through its Pool season at Tangambalanga Development Plan to upgrade pools. Swimming Pool.

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Recommendations  Identify the likelihood of night football matches and other night time community events at Coulston Park and if feasible, seek  Initiate a regional football / netball strategy with neighbouring funding to install suitable lighting on the oval. municipalities to identify and prioritise specific infrastructure  Upgrade the tennis hard courts at Coulston Park when required needs at each recreation reserve. and incorporate line marking for netball.  Initiate a regional tennis strategy with neighbouring  Continue to implement Council’s Pool Development Plan to municipalities to identify and prioritise specific infrastructure upgrade public swimming pools. needs at each tennis club.

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6.12 Wahgunyah

Population: 1,098

Sport and active recreation facilities / clubs

Wahgunyah Children’s Playground Reserve Wahgunyah Cricket Club Wahgunyah Football Netball Club Wahgunyah Recreation Reserve Wahgunyah Speedway Wahgunyah Tennis Club

Needs identified through research and consultation

Issue / opportunity Literature Community Club Key stakeholder Comments review consultation consultation meetings Develop a waterways X This issue should be identified in the proposed recreational usage plan for the Murray waterways access plan. River around the willows.

Construct new tennis / X X The existing second netball court is in very poor condition. In netball court with lighting order to attract funding for a second netball court, multi-use in Wahgunyah. will need to be demonstrated. No feedback received from netball club to determine whether or not this is a need. A regional tennis plan and a regional football / netball plan will

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Issue / opportunity Literature Community Club Key stakeholder Comments review consultation consultation meetings help to guide requirements at this site.

Complete the X X This project is supported by the Council Plan. It will provide walking/cycling track from an attractive off road trail experience through Moodemere Wahgunyah to Lake Nature Conservation Reserve and may provide economic Moodemere. benefits by incorporating wineries and accommodation. Likely to be attractive to people visiting Corowa in NSW.

Recommendations  Initiate a regional tennis strategy with neighbouring municipalities to identify and prioritise specific infrastructure  Complete the walking/cycling track from Wahgunyah to Lake needs at each tennis club. Moodemere.  Explore the feasibility of developing a second netball court at  Initiate a regional football / netball strategy with neighbouring Wahgunyah Recreation Reserve. municipalities to identify and prioritise specific infrastructure needs at each recreation reserve.

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6.13 Wooragee

Population: 343

Sport and active recreation facilities / clubs

Wooragee Tennis Club

Needs identified through research and consultation

Issue / opportunity Literature Community Club Key stakeholder Comments review consultation consultation meetings Construct an additional X An application for funding has already been submitted. tennis court

Recommendations

 Construct an additional tennis court at Wooragee Tennis Club.

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6.14 Yackandandah

Population: 1,776

Sport and active recreation facilities / clubs

Butson Park Recreation Reserve Sir Isaac Isaacs Park Yackandandah Bowling Club Yackandandah Cricket Club Yackandandah Football Netball Club Yackandandah Golf Club Yackandandah MTB Park Yackandandah Pistol Club Yackandandah Riding Club Yackandandah Sports Park Yackandandah Skate Park Yackandandah Soccer Club Yackandandah Swimming Pool Yackandandah Tennis Club Yackandandah Walking Track

Needs identified through research and consultation

Issue / opportunity Literature Community Club Key stakeholder Comments review consultation consultation meetings Upgrade change rooms X X The change facilities at Butson Park are in poor condition. and toilets at Butson Park. Improve drainage at X Drainage is an issue at Butson Park. Butson Park. Upgrade cricket nets at X X The existing nets are in poor condition. It is recommended Yackandandah Sports Park. that a multi-purpose facility with moveable nets is developed. This can then be used for other activities too by clubs /

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Issue / opportunity Literature Community Club Key stakeholder Comments review consultation consultation meetings organisations such as netball, tennis, Futsal, scouts, personal trainers, etc.

Upgrade tennis courts at X X Tennis courts are in reasonable condition at present but will Yackandandah Sports Park. require upgrading in the future.

Develop more walking / X This action is supported as it encourages active transport, but cycling tracks and also provide infrastructure for the two most participated in footpaths in physical activities: walking and cycling. A trail along the Yackandandah. Yackandandah Creek to link Butson Park with Yackandandah Sports Park is a priority.

Install outdoor gym X Research indicates that outdoor gym equipment is rarely equipment. used. Instead, focus on developing inter-generational activities in parks.

Upgrade clubhouse and X X The upgrade of the clubhouse is primarily the responsibility of toilets at golf club and the golf club. Given that dog walkers may wish to use toilets irrigate fairways. at the golf club, there may be justification for some support from Council. Irrigation of the fairways is likely to be costly and unlikely to return a great deal of benefit in terms of additional green fees.

Upgrade skate park. X X X Council is in the final stages of design for a new skate park to be constructed at the existing site. The upgrade is being overseen by a steering committee featuring young people, community representatives and Councillors. Funding of $100,000 has been received from State Government and Council is contributing $155,000. This project is supported by the Council Plan.

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Issue / opportunity Literature Community Club Key stakeholder Comments review consultation consultation meetings Heat the swimming pool, X X Indigo Shire Council is currently working through its Pool extend the season and Development Plan to upgrade pools. increase operating hours.

Construct an indoor X This is not viable for a town the size of Yackandandah and it heated pool. does not meet the criteria of the Towns Recreation Facilities Framework.

Develop a gym in X Some exercise sessions already held at Sports Park and also Yackandandah. conducted by Yackandandah Health. Generally a private sector responsibility to open a gym, although community models could be explored.

Relocate football and X It has been agreed that there should be a link established netball to Sports Park. between Butson Park and Yackandandah Sports Park to create one major sports hub with two connected campuses.

Develop a rail trail from X X X This project is supported by the Council Plan and will Beechworth to Osborne’s commence shortly. Flat via Yackandandah.

Increase use of Sports X X X AAdditional efforts may need to be made to promote the Park. activities that occur at the site, or encourage the development of new activities at the site.

Construct accessible toilets X This is necessary to grow riding in Yackandandah, including for Riding Club at Riding for the Disabled. Existing toilets in the pavilion are Yackandandah Sports Park. some distance away. The club currently uses portaloos.

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Recommendations  Develop accessible toilet facilities for the Riding Club at Yackandandah Sports Park.  Commence discussions to link Butson Park and Yackandandah  Develop more walking / cycling trails and footpaths in Sports Park to create one major sports hub with two campuses. Yackandandah. Develop a master plan and business plan to support the  Upgrade the skate park in Yackandandah to better meet the development of the hub. needs of young people.  Commence discussions to establish a unified governance model  Explore the potential to offer a gym program in Yackandandah, or an advisory committee incorporating the existing committees either as a community gym model or in partnership with of management from Butson Park and Yackandandah Sports Park Yackandandah Health. to share information, undertake joint initiatives and best utilise  Explore opportunities to add inter-generational activities / limited resources. elements when next upgrading Sir Isaac Isaacs Park.  Upgrade netball courts at Butson Park.  Support Yackandandah Sports Club to develop marketing  Upgrade change facilities at Butson Park. materials to create better usage of the pavilion.  Upgrade cricket nets at Yackandandah Sports Park to become a  Continue to implement Council’s Pool Development Plan to multi-purpose training area. upgrade public swimming pools.

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