18 December 2018 - Bland Shire Council - NSW Government

Bland Shire Council

Business Paper

Ordinary Council Meeting

18 December 2018

i

ii

ETHICAL DECISION MAKING AND CONFLICTS OF INTEREST

A guiding checklist for Councillors, Officers and Advisory Committees

Ethical Decision Making

Is the decision or conduct legal?

Is it consistent with Government policy, Council’s objectives and Code of Conduct?

What will the outcome be for you, your colleagues, the Council, anyone else?

Does it raise a conflict of interest?

Could your possible conflict of interest lead to private gain or loss at public expense?

Can the decision be justified in terms of public interest?

Would it withstand public scrutiny?

Conflict of Interest

A conflict of interest is a clash between private interest and public duty. There are two types of conflict:

Pecuniary – regulated by the Local Government Act and Office of Local Government and, Non-

pecuniary – regulated by Codes of Conduct and policy. ICAC, Ombudsman, Office of Local Government

(advice only).

The test for conflict of interest

Is it likely I could be influenced by personal interest in carrying out my public duty?

Would a fair and reasonable person believe I could be so influenced?

Conflict of interest is closely tied to the layperson’s definition of “corruption” – using public office for

private gain.

Important to consider public perceptions of whether you have a conflict of interest

Identifying Problems

1st - Do I have private interest affected by a matter I am officially involved in?

2nd - Is my official role one of influence or perceived influence over the matter?

3rd - Do my private interests conflict with my official role?

Whilst seeking advice is generally useful, the ultimate decision rests with the person concerned.

Agency Advice

Officers of the following agencies are available during office hours to discuss the obligations placed on

Councillors, Officers and Advisory Committee members by various pieces of legislation, regulation and Codes.

Contact Phone Email Website

Bland Shire

Council

6972 2266 [email protected] www.blandshire.nsw.gov.au

ICAC 8281 5999

Toll Free:

1800 463 909

[email protected] www.icac.nsw.gov.au

Office of Local

Government

4428 4100 [email protected] www.dlg.nsw.gov.au

NSW Ombudsman 9286 1000

Toll Free:

1800 451 524

[email protected] www.ombo.nsw.gov.au

mailto:[email protected]

http://www.blandshire.nsw.gov.au/


http://www.icac.nsw.gov.au/


http://www.dlg.nsw.gov.au/


http://www.ombo.nsw.gov.au/

iii

Common Acronyms Used in Bland Shire Council Reports and Documents

ABS Australian Bureau of Statistics

ACAT Aged Care Assessment Team

AFZ Alcohol Free Zone

AGM Annual General Meeting

ALIA Australian Library and Information Association

AMP Asset Management Plan

AMRC NSW Association of Mining Related Councils

BCA Building Code of Australia

BDCP Bland Development Control Plan

BEC Business Enterprise Centre

BFMC Bush Fire Management Committee

BFMP Bush Fire Management Plan

BSC Bland Shire Council

BWW Business West Wyalong

CASA Civil Aviation Safety Authority

CBD Central Business District

CDAT Community Drug Action Team

CDO Community Development Officer

CENTROC Central West Regional Group of Councils

CEO Chief Executive Officer

CIV Capital Improved Value

CLRS Councillors

CPD Continuing Professional Development

CPI Consumer Price Index

CPP Cowal Partnering Program

Cr Councillor

CRO Community Relations Officer

CSP Community Strategic Plan

CSU Childrens Services Unit

CT Community Technology

CWA Country Women’s Association

DA Development Application

DAES Director Asset & Engineering Services

DCCDS Director Corporate, Community & Development Services

DCP Development Control Plan

DEMO District Emergency Management Officer

DEOCON District Emergency Controller

DisPlan Disaster Plan (Local DisPlan, District DisPlan, State DisPlan)

DP Delivery Program

DPI Department of Primary Industries

EA Executive Assistant

EAP Employee Assistance Program

ED Economic Development

EEO Equal Employment Opportunity

EFO Electoral Funding Authority

EOI Expression of Interest

EPAA Environmental Planning & Assessment Act

ERA Eastern Riverina Arts

EWSA Educator Workplace Safety Audit

EWW Events West Wyalong

EYLF Early Years Learning Framework

FAG Financial Assistance Grant

FDC Family Day Care

FFTF Fit for the Future

FRRR Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal

FYI For your information

GHMS Grain Harvest Management Scheme

GIPA Government Information (Public Access) Act

GM General Manager

GTAN Government Training & Assistance Network

GWCC Goldenfields Water County Council

HACC Home and Community Care

HR Human Resources

ICAC Independent Commission Against Corruption

IPART Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal

IPR or IP&R Integrated Planning and Reporting

ITAV It Takes A Village Program

JO Joint Organisation

K&G Kerb and gutter

KPI Key Performance Indicator

LALC Local Aboriginal Lands Council

LBDC Little Bangs Discovery Club

LCGMCAC Lake Cowal Gold Mine Closure Advisory Committee

LEMC Local Emergency Management Committee

LEMO Local Emergency Management Officer

LEOC Local Emergency Operations Centre

LEOCON Local Emergency Operations Controller

LEP Local Environmental Plan

LG Local Government

LGA Local Government Act or Local Government Area

LGNSW Local Government New South Wales

LIAC Legal Information Access Centre

LTFP Long Term Financial Plan

M Million

Manex Management Executive

MHDA Mental Health Drug & Alcohol

MLC Member of the Legislative Council

MML Murrumbidgee Medicare Local

MOW Meals on Wheels

MoU Memorandum of Understanding

MP Member of Parliament

MPHN Murrumbidgee Primary Health Network

MPR Multi Purpose Room

MR Main Road

MRU Mobile Resource Unit

NAIDOC National Aboriginal & Islander Observance Committee

NFAR No further action required

NGO Non-Government Organisation

NQF National Quality Framework

NSRF National Stronger Regions Fund

NSWEC New South Wales Electoral Commission

NSWPLA New South Wales Public Libraries Association

NSWRFS NSW Rural Fire Service

OGM Office of the General Manager

OLG Office of Local Government

OP Operational Plan

P&G Parks & Gardens

PA Per Annum

PC Personal Computer

PCBU Person Conducting a Business or Undertaking

PHaMs Personal Helpers and Mentors

PLA Public Library Association

POEO Protection of the Environment Operations Act & Regulations

PSITAB NSW Public Sector Industry Advisory Board

PSSA NSW Primary Schools Sports Association

QBRS Quarterly Budget Review Statement

R2R Roads to Recovery

Rd Road

iv

RDA Regional Development Australia

RDO Rostered Day Off

Rec Recreation

REROC Riverina Eastern Regional Organisation of Councils

RFBI Royal Freemasons’ Benevolent Institution

RFS Rural Fire Service

RMAP Risk Management Action Plan

RMS Roads & Maritime Services

RRL Riverina Regional Library

RTO Registered Training Organisation

RV Recreational Vehicle

SEDTA Senior Economic Development & Tourism Advisor

SEPP State Environmental Planning Policy

SES State Emergency Service

SH State Highway

SLA Service-level agreement

SLNSW State Library New South Wales

SRC Summer Reading Club

SRV Special Rate Variation

St Street

STW Sewerage Treatment Works

TASAC Tourist Attraction Signposting Assessment Committee

TCORP Treasury Corporation

TSR Travelling stock route

TVET TAFE Delivered Vocational Education & Training

USU United Services Union

UV Unimproved Value

VC Victoria Cross

VIC Visitor Information Centre

VPA Voluntary Planning Agreement

WAPS Workforce Assessment Plan & Strategy

WHS Work Health & Safety

WWBC West Wyalong Bowling Club

WWFHG West Wyalong Family History Group

WWRL West Wyalong Rugby League

v

Council Meeting Agenda

18 December 2018

commencing at 6:30PM

1.0 INTRODUCTION Let us acknowledge the Wiradjuri people, their elders past and present, traditional custodians of the land we now share. Let us be inspired by the resilience, innovation and perseverance of past generations. Let us honour those who protect this great land, may you draw strength from your God or Faith so that we may, here today, on behalf of our community, - build a vibrant future together. (“Pause for Reflection”).

2.0 ATTENDANCE 2.1 Councillors

Cr Bruce Baker

Cr Rodney Crowe

Cr Penny English

Cr Kerry Keatley

Cr Tony Lord

Cr Liz McGlynn

Cr Brian Monaghan

Cr Murray Thomas

Cr Jan Wyse

2.2 Staff

General Manager – Ray Smith

Director Asset & Engineering Services – Will Marsh

Director Corporate, Community, Development & Regulatory Services – Adele Casey

Executive Assistant – Julie Sharpe

2.3 Apologies

vi

3.0 CONFIRMATION OF THE MINUTES 3.1 Ordinary Meeting held on 20 November 2018

Confirmation That the minutes of the Ordinary Council meeting held on 20 November 2018 be confirmed as a correct record of proceedings.

Corrections Business Arising

4.0 DECLARATIONS OF INTEREST A pecuniary interest is an interest that a person has in a matter because of a reasonable likelihood or expectation of appreciable financial gain or loss the person or another person with whom the person is associated. A person does not have a pecuniary interest in a matter if the interest is so remote or insignificant that it could not reasonably be regarded as likely to influence any decision a person might make in relation to a matter.

Councillor/Officer Item Nature of Interest

5.0 PUBLIC FORUM 5.1 Staff Presentation - Retirement 5.2 Audit Presentation 6.0 MAYORAL MINUTE 7.0 NOTICES OF MOTION 8.0 DELEGATES & COMMITTEE REPORTS Section 1 – Delegates & Committee Reports & Minutes (for information)

vii

9.0 STAFF REPORTS

Section 2 – Office of the General Manager

9.1 Waste to Energy Proposal – NSW Country Mayors Association…………………….. 67

9.2 Riverina Joint Organisations – Adoption of Charter…………………………………… 71

9.3 Drought Communities Program………………………………………………………….. 72

9.4 Naming of an Unnamed Park – Corner of Monash and Park Streets, West Wyalong……………………………………………………………………………………..

74

9.5 Dump Point Installation at Barmedman…………………………………………………. 75

9.6 Strengthening Communities – West Wyalong Rodeo…………………………………. 77

Section 3 – Corporate, Community, Development & Regulatory Services

9.7 Financial Statements – November 2018………………………………………………... 78

9.8 Parking Fine Concessions………………………………………………………………... 83

9.9 Local Heritage Assistance Funding – 77 Neeld Street, Wyalong…………………….. 84

Section 4 – Asset & Engineering Services

9.10 Minutes Traffic Advisory Committee…………………………………………………….. 86

9.11 ‘No Right’ Turn West into Main Street from Church Street Travelling South………... 91

9.12 Taxi Rank Church Street………………………………………………………………….. 95

9.13 Lanes Parallel to Main Street…………………………………………………………….. 98

9.14 Lanes Parallel to Church Street on Western Side……………………………………… 100

9.15 Star Lane…………………………………………………………………………………… 102

9.16 Events……………………………………………………………………………………….. 104

Section 5 – Reports for Information

9.17 Economic Development & Tourism Report – November 2018 ……………………..... 122

9.18 Community Services Report ……………………………………………………………… 132

9.19 Bland Shire Library Monthly Update …………………………………………………….. 134

9.20 Development Services Activity Report ………………………………………………….. 137

9.21 Assets & Engineering Services Report …………………………………………………. 139

viii

10.0 URGENT BUSINESS WITHOUT NOTICE 11.0 QUESTIONS AND STATEMENTS

Matters to be dealt with arising out of the proceedings of former meetings of the Council

Other Matters 12.0 CLOSURE OF THE MEETING TO DISCUSS CONFIDENTIAL BUSINESS UNDER THE

PROVISIONS OF SECTION 10A(2) OF THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT 12.1 LEASE OF LAND – NEWELL HIGHWAY

Local Government Act 1993 (section 10A (2) (c)

The matters and information are information that would, if disclosed, confer a commercial advantage on a

person with whom the council is conducting (or proposes to conduct) business.

13.0 RESUMPTION OF THE MEETING AND CONSIDERATION OF RECOMMENDATIONS OF

THE CLOSED SECTION OF THE MEETING 14.0 CLOSE OF THE MEETING

MINUTES OF THE ORDINARY MEETING OF THE COUNCIL OF BLAND HELD IN THE COUNCIL CHAMBERS WEST WYALONG ON TUESDAY 18 DECEMBER 2018

SECTION 1 – DELEGATES & COMMITTEE REPORTS

Our Leadership - A well run Council acting as the voice of the community

DP10.6 Regular consultation with key industry, business and stakeholders

Section 1 – Delegates & Committee Reports & Minutes (for information)

Committee Date/s Minutes attached

Australia Day Awards Committee of the Whole

(Whole Council)

4th December 2018

Australian Rural Roads Group Inc

(Mayor Monaghan,

Cr McGlynn - alternate, Cr Thomas - alternate)

19th June 2018

Bland Rural Fire District Zone Liaison Committee (Cr Keatley)

21st March 2018

Bland – Temora RFS Zone Bushfire Management Committee

(Cr Baker)

21st March 2018

Community Reference Group

(Whole Council)

13th November 2018 12th February 2019

Country Mayors Association of NSW

(Mayor Monaghan)

Cowal Gold Project Community Environmental Monitoring & Consultative Committee (CEMCC)

(Mayor Monaghan, Cr Thomas - alternate)

5th December 2018

Goldenfields Water County Council Board

(Cr McGlynn)

21st December 2018

Internal Audit Committee

Lachlan Valley Noxious Plants Advisory Committee

(Cr Crowe)

Local Traffic Advisory Committee 6th December 2018 Included in

Section 4

Murrumbidgee Primary Health Network Board

(Cr Monaghan)


Newell Highway Taskforce

(Cr Lord)

13th November 2018 12th February 2019

NSW Association of Mining & Energy Related Councils (MERC)

(Cr McGlynn, Cr Thomas - alternate)

8th & 9th November 2018 7th & 8th February 2019

NSW Public Libraries Association (Cr Wyse)

11th October 2018

Riverina Eastern Regional Organisation of Councils (REROC)

(Mayor Monaghan)

7th June 2018 2nd August 2018

19th October 2018 6th December 2018

Riverina Regional Library Advisory Committee

(Cr Wyse)

15th November 2018 30th May 2019

Riverina Regional Tourism

(Cr English)

Recommendation: That the Council receive and note the delegate and committee reports from Councillors and Committee meeting minutes as presented.

PAGE NO. 1 OF THE MINUTES OF THE BLAND SHIRE COMMUNITY REFERENCE GROUP MEETING HELD ON TUESDAY 13 NOVEMBER 2018 …………………………… ……………………………. General Manager Mayor

MINUTES OF THE BLAND SHIRE COMMUNITY REFERENCE GROUP MEETING HELD IN THE BLAND SHIRE COUNCIL CHAMBERS ON TUESDAY 13 NOVEMBER 2018 COMMENCING AT 6.30PM

Present: Jill Funnell, Sarah Gillett, Barry Cooper, Vicki Jolly, Allan Clark, Gayle Clark, Betty Fenning, Deborah Dean, Marina Uys, Johan Uys, Mayor Brian Monaghan, Deputy Mayor Liz McGlynn, Councillor Kerry Keatley, Cr Bruce Baker, Cr Murray Thomas, Cr Jan Wyse, Cr Tony Lord, Ray Smith (General Manager), Craig Sutton (Community Relations Officer), Rebecca McDonell (Community Development Officer). WELCOME Mayor Brian Monaghan welcomed everyone to the meeting at 6.31pm. APOLOGIES Cr Rodney Crowe, Cr Penny English, Amanda Stitt BUSINESS ARISING

1. Green Waste Collection General Manager Ray Smith advised that Council is currently investigating a Food Organics and Garden Organics (FOGO) recycling program.

2. Microphones in Council Chambers The General Manager said Council is waiting on advice from the Office of Local Government regarding future requirements to broadcast Council meetings before proceeding further. 3. Change and Feeding Room The General Manager advised that change room facilities are now available in both unisex public toilets located in the Main Street. 4. West Wyalong Stadium Hand Rails and Steps The General Manager advised that Council has sought a revised quote and that the work will be completed in the near future.

NEW BUSINESS

5. Digital Town Clock and Temperature Gauge Barry Cooper suggested Council consider installing a free standing digital clock which tells the time and temperature in a prominent location in West Wyalong’s Main Street. The Mayor advised that Council will investigate.

6. Weethalle Country Music Muster Allan Clark addressed the meeting regarding plans to hold a Country Music Muster in Weethalle during 2019. Mr Clark said he has attended numerous festivals around Australia, has spoken to various artists and has partnered with a Queensland based musician and promoter to deliver the talent and entertainment for the proposed event. He said such festivals are popular with grey nomads/caravaners and is confident the Weethalle Showground will be a suitable location. In future years, Mr Clark told the meeting he would like to see a shed built to accommodate the entertainers and crowd.


Mr Clark said the Muster would likely run from Wednesday through to Sunday and his committee is searching for a suitable date in 2019 which ties in with the existing country music circuit. He requested support from Council to seek grants and provide in-kind support to assist with the costs of the inaugural muster. The Mayor congratulated Mr Clark and his committee on their initiative and advised him to continue to liase with the Community Relations Officer regarding grants and requests for in-kind support.

7. 125th Anniversary of Wyalong and West Wyalong Chairperson of Business West Wyalong, Jill Funnell, updated the meeting regarding a Business West Wyalong initiative – in conjunction with the Family History Group – to record and display the history of local businesses and their buildings as part of the 125th anniversary celebrations. Mrs Funnell said Business West Wyalong had received approximately 30 expressions of interest from local businesses wanting to participate. Sarah Gillett from West Wyalong Riding for the Disabled advised that the opening night bush dance featuring the Tin Shed Rattlers will now be held at the Ram Shed at the West Wyalong Showground in order to accommodate an anticipated large crowd. Community Relations Officer, Craig Sutton and Community Development Officer, Rebecca McDonell presented a draft program brochure with comments and changes invited up until Friday 23 November.

8. General Business Mayor Brian Monaghan advised that Australia Day nominations close on 26 November and encouraged those in attendance to consider submitting a nomination. The Mayor advised that Council has secured up to $1 million in drought funding from the Federal Government for community infrastructure and projects and invited suggestions from the community. Allan Clark put forward a proposal for a shed at Weethalle Showground to host the proposed Country Music Muster in 2019. Barry Cooper asked Council to undertake inspection of footpaths and overgrown vegetation. The Mayor told the meeting that following discussions between Council and Murrumbidgee Health, the West Wyalong Hospital will have an on call doctor available seven days a week commencing Monday 19 November. The Mayor said Council had sought and received an undertaking that on-call services will continue while contracts between Murrumbidgee Health and local doctors continue to be negotiated. The Mayor was congratulated on a great outcome for the community.


DATE OF NEXT MEETING The next Community Reference Group meeting will be held on Tuesday 12 February 2019 at the Bland Shire Council Chambers at 6.30pm. CLOSE There being no further business the meeting closed at 7.42 pm.

NHTF Committee Minutes - Parkes 20181113 Page 1 of 18

NEWELL HIGHWAY TASK FORCE MEETING

Minutes of the Newell Highway Task Force (NHTF) Meeting

held in Parkes on Tuesday 13 November 2018

The NHTF meeting commenced at 10:00am

1. Welcome, Attendees, Apologies

The Chair Cr Ken Keith OAM welcomed everyone to the Newell Highway Task Force Committee

meeting to Parkes.

In his welcome to Parkes Cr Keith OAM, mentioned that construction of the Logistics Hub and Pacific

National’s Parkes Logistics Terminal has commenced which has resulted in an influx of contractors. The

ARTC Inland Rail sod turning is expected to take place on 13 December. The funds allocated for the

Parkes bypass have been reallocated to the Newell Highway Overtaking Alliance and Parkes will be

seeking Federal Government funding for the bypass. Parkes has completed their water and sewerage

projects and have commenced constructing the ring water main. Other projects are the main street

upgrade, Cook Park and library improvements. We will change the order of the meeting as Alistair Lunn

will be arriving during the meeting.

Front row L to R: John Morris Regional NSW High Productivity Road Transport Alliance, Cr Dennis

Todd Deputy Mayor Warrumbungle Shire Council, Luke McDermott Narrabri Shire Council, Cr Alan

Ward, Cr Ken Keith OAM Mayor Parkes Shire Council, Cr Graeme Miller Forbes Shire Council, Cr

Vicki Etheridge Dubbo Regional Council, Cr Tony Lord Bland Shire Council, Cr Craig Davies Mayor

Narromine Shire Council, John Zannes Forbes Shire Council and absent from the photo is Alistair Lunn

Western Regional Director of the RMS and Anna Wylie Parkes Shire Council.

Attendees:

Name Organisation

Cr Ken Keith OAM Parkes Shire Council

Jeff Stien Bland Shire Council

Cr Tony Lord Bland Shire Council

Cr Graeme Miller Forbes Shire Council

John Zannes Forbes Shire Council

Cr Craig Davies Narromine Shire Council


Name Organisation

Cr Vicki Etheridge Dubbo Regional Council

Cr Alan Ward Parkes Shire Council

John Morris Regional NSW High Productivity Road Transport Alliance

Luke McDermott Narrabri Shire Council

Cr Denis Todd Warrumbungle Shire Council

Alistair Lunn RMS - Director Western Region

Anna Wylie Parkes Shire Council

Apologies:

Name Organisation

The Hon. Scott Buchholz MP Assistant Minister for Roads & Transport

Austin Evans MP Member for Murray

Philip Donato MP Member for Orange

Kevin Humphries MP Member for Barwon

Carla Campbell EO Kevin Humphries MP

Cr Doug Batten Gilgandra Shire Council

George Cowan Narrandera Shire Council

Cr Kevin Morris Narrandera Shire Council

Cr Neville Kschenka Narrandera Shire Council

Peter Dale Narrandera Shire Council

Warren Clark NATROAD

Mick Savage Institute of Public Works Engineering Australia

Darren Raeck Narrabri Shire Council

Cr Cathy Redding Narrabri Shire Council

Kevin Tighe Warrumbungle Shire Council

Ray Smith Bland Shire Council

Cr Ruth McCrae Murrumbidgee Council

John Scarce Murrumbidgee Council

Matthew Lewis Dubbo Regional Council

Ian Dinham Moree Plains Shire Council

Katrina Makim Moree Plains Shire Council

Lila Fisher Moree Plains Shire Council

Steve Carmichael Federation Shire Council

Resolution

That the apologies be confirmed

Moved: Cr Dennis Todd Seconded: John Zannes

All in favour

Carried

2. Confirmation of the minutes from the previous meeting held in Coonabarabran on

Tuesday 14 August 2018

Resolution

That the Minutes of the NHTF Committee meeting held in Coonabarabran on Tuesday 14 August 2018 be

confirmed.

Moved: Cr Vicki Etheridge Seconded: John Morris

All in favour

Carried


3. Matters arising and actions arising from the previous NHTF Meeting that was held in

Narrandera Tuesday 8 May 2018.

Snowy Hydro Funds Letter

NHTF logo

Traffic Counters

4. Correspondence

The secretary has distributed copies of all correspondence to the Newell Highway Task Force committee

members.

5. Newell Highway Promotions Committee Update

The Chair of the Newell Highway Promotions Committee (NHPC) provided an update on the activities of

the NHPC and mentioned that the new Newell Highway brochure advertising prospectus has been sent

out and the NHPC is working on the new brochure. The Chair of the NHPC thanked all of the Councils

and organisations for providing financial assistance in the production of the brochure which is marketed

at the majority of the Visitor Information Centres on the Eastern Seaboard, Caravan and Camping Shows,

direct mail outs and through the NHPC Website: http://www.newellhighway.org.au/route39/. The NHPC

were disappointed that some of the larger centres and organisations contribution to the new brochure was

minimal.

The Chair mentioned that the NHPC website is tracking quite well as per the following graph and the

NHPC has been receiving an increased interest from overseas visitor wishing to travel on Australia’s and

NSW’s premier inland touring route instead of travelling through the congested cities and coastal routes.

The Chair mentioned that the NHPC does not receive funding from Destination NSW and operates

efficiently within a conservative funding model supported solely by the member organisations. The Chair

0

2,000

4,000

6,000

8,000

10,000

12,000

14,000

16,000

18,000

2016 2016 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2017 2018 2018 2018 2018 2018 2018 2018 2018 2018 2018

Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct

Newell Highway Website Pageviews

http://www.newellhighway.org.au/route39/


once again thanked all of the Councils and organisations for providing financial assistance for the

promotion of the Newell Highway, which is New South Wales and Australia’s premier inland touring

route.

The October Newell Highway website analytics are inserted as distributed at the meeting:


Destination NSW Drives and Road Trips

As mentioned at a previous NHTF meeting Destination NSW had developed a series of drives and road

trips that was supported by a trip and itinerary planner and interactive map:

https://www.visitnsw.com/things-to-do/drives-and-road-trips. The drives and road trips are focused

around Food & Wine, Natural Wonders, Heritage & Culture and Beaches & Surf as per the following

map:

https://www.visitnsw.com/things-to-do/drives-and-road-trips


The drives and road trips consist of the following and the Newell Highway is not included as an entire

route yet it is Australia’s and New South Wales premier inland touring route:

Food & Wine

Albury to Bourke - Kidman Way

ITINERARY

28 STOPS

829KM

Drive straight through the middle of NSW, from the agricultural hub of Albury through friendly small

towns, wine regions and national parks.

Heritage Towns, Contemporary Tastes

ITINERARY

44 STOPS

425KM

Cruise around a little slice of NSW on this road trip where you'll discover iconic monuments, friendly

towns and excellent wine.

Cool Coast to Intrepid Inland

ITINERARY

36 STOPS

240KM

Start in the cool coastal city of Newcastle and experience the relaxed lifestyle of the Central Coast and its

hinterland.

Food-Lover's Loop

ITINERARY

37 STOPS

486KM

This quest to seek out mouthwatering produce takes you from the Hawkesbury region to Mudgee, then

deep into Hunter Valley wine country.

Coast and Country Highlife

ITINERARY

46 STOPS

491KM

Live the high life on this tour of country to coast between Sydney and Canberra.

The Long Paddock

ITINERARY

24 STOPS

635KM

This drive takes you along an historic trade route, once a thriving port for cargoes of goods shipped along

the Darling by river steamers.

Tablelands Food and Wine Trail

ITINERARY

49 STOPS

531KM

This route also takes you through historic towns and beautiful countryside on a five day food and wine

tour of the exquisite NSW Tablelands.


Sydney to Melbourne Coastal Drive

ITINERARY

56 STOPS

523KM

Discover beautiful seaside towns, historic villages, pristine beaches and breathtaking national parks.

NSW Food and Wine Trail

ITINERARY

41 STOPS

579KM

The drive from Orange to Mudgee takes you through wonderful countryside, rich with vineyards and

World Heritage wilderness.

Riverina to Snowy Valleys Way

ITINERARY

39 STOPS

404KM

Travel from the heart of Australia’s food bowl to exhilarating alpine wilderness.

Natural Wonders


ITINERARY

28 STOPS

829KM



The Classic Australian Drive

ITINERARY

25 STOPS

831KM

Drive through the heart of the Riverina Murray and get a taste of everything this diverse region has to

offer.

The North Coast Hinterland Adventure

ITINERARY

29 STOPS

277KM

There's more than one way to go north in NSW.

Heritage Highlights

ITINERARY

37 STOPS

206KM

Explore the fascinating history of New South Wales with this sweeping tour from hinterland to coast.

Stargazing and Storytelling

ITINERARY

26 STOPS

918KM

On this outback journey under starry skies, you'll begin in Parkes, the home of 'The Dish'.


A Tour of Caves and Fossils

ITINERARY

28 STOPS

564KM

On this route you'll discover fascinating natural wonders from caves to glow worms.


ITINERARY

56 STOPS

523KM


Greater Blue Mountains

ITINERARY

37 STOPS

1064KM

The Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area includes some of the most significant national parks

and conservation areas in Australia.

The Mighty Murray River Drive

ITINERARY

26 STOPS

326KM

Ride paddle-steamers, enjoy fun river activities, explore intriguing heritage, and visit wineries on this

spectacular touring route.

Rainforest Way

ITINERARY

19 STOPS

224KM

There are multiple scenic drives that will take you through the Gondwana Rainforests of Australia World

Heritage Area of northern NSW.

Kosciuszko Alpine Way

ITINERARY

24 STOPS

171KM

The Kosciuszko Alpine Way drive is an unforgettable drive.

Central to Outback NSW

ITINERARY

24 STOPS

754KM

Discover a spellbinding region of breathtaking landscapes, beautiful colonial heritage, rich indigenous

culture and World-Heritage nature.

Waterfall Way

ITINERARY

23 STOPS

201KM

6KM

Enjoy spectacular lookouts, enchanting waterfalls and exhilarating walks in beautiful rainforests.


Darling River Run

ITINERARY

26 STOPS

945KM

Follow the Darling River Run to the historic river port of Wentworth, at the great confluence of the

Mighty Murray and Darling Rivers.

Riverina to Snowy Valleys Way

ITINERARY

39 STOPS

404KM

Travel from the heart of Australia’s food bowl to exhilarating alpine wilderness.

Heritage & Culture


ITINERARY

28 STOPS

829KM



The Classic Australian Drive

ITINERARY

25 STOPS

831KM

Drive through the heart of the Riverina Murray and get a taste of everything this diverse region has to

offer.

Coast to Country

ITINERARY

38 STOPS

394KM

Make your way up the coast of Central NSW from Port Macquarie, stopping at famous surf breaks and

pretty beach towns.

Heritage Towns, Contemporary Tastes

ITINERARY

44 STOPS

425KM

Cruise around a little slice of NSW on this road trip where you'll discover iconic monuments, friendly

towns and excellent wine.

High Country to Cruising Coast

ITINERARY

36 STOPS

387KM

Drive through the ghost-white gums of the Snowy Mountains down to the lush hinterland areas of the

NSW South Coast.



ITINERARY

36 STOPS

240KM


hinterland.

Heritage Highlights

ITINERARY

37 STOPS

206KM

Explore the fascinating history of New South Wales with this sweeping tour from hinterland to coast.

Stargazing and Storytelling

ITINERARY

26 STOPS

918KM

On this outback journey under starry skies, you'll begin in Parkes, the home of 'The Dish'.

A Tour of Caves and Fossils

ITINERARY

28 STOPS

564KM

On this route you'll discover fascinating natural wonders from caves to glow worms.

Fossickers Way

ITINERARY

41 STOPS

559KM

This itinerary is a suggested route which allows you to experience some of the best the region has to

offer.

The Long Paddock

ITINERARY

24 STOPS

635KM

This drive takes you along an historic trade route, once a thriving port for cargoes of goods shipped along

the Darling by river steamers.

The Mighty Murray River Drive

ITINERARY

26 STOPS

326KM

Ride paddle-steamers, enjoy fun river activities, explore intriguing heritage, and visit wineries on this

spectacular touring route.

Central to Outback NSW

ITINERARY

24 STOPS

754KM

Discover a spellbinding region of breathtaking landscapes, beautiful colonial heritage, rich indigenous

culture and World-Heritage nature.


Darling River Run

ITINERARY

26 STOPS

945KM

Follow the Darling River Run to the historic river port of Wentworth, at the great confluence of the

Mighty Murray and Darling Rivers.

Beaches & Surf

High Country to Cruising Coast

ITINERARY

36 STOPS

387KM

Drive through the ghost-white gums of the Snowy Mountains down to the lush hinterland areas of the

NSW South Coast.


ITINERARY

36 STOPS

240KM


hinterland.

Coast and Country Highlife

ITINERARY

46 STOPS

491KM

Live the high life on this tour of country to coast between Sydney and Canberra.


ITINERARY

56 STOPS

523KM


Grand Pacific Drive

ITINERARY

21 STOPS

179KM

This drive heads into the vibrant city of Wollongong then through the spectacular Shellharbour, Kiama

and Shoalhaven regions.

Legendary Pacific Coast

ITINERARY

43 STOPS

818KM

This spectacular drive takes in the Central Coast, Lake Macquarie, Port Stephens, Coffs Harbour, Byron

Bay and the Tweed Area.

The NHPC has made representations the New South Wales Government Tourism Minister and his office

regarding the importance of the Newell Highway and the Ministers Office assured the NHPC that the

Newell Highway would be included in a future release of the drives and road trips as an entire route.


As a result of the delay in development of the Newell Highway as one of the Destination NSW drives and

road trips, the NHPC will be making follow up representations to the Minister and Destination NSW.

There was a general discussion regarding the Destination NSW drives and road trips and the NHTF were

concerned that Newell Highway had not been included. It was resolved that the NHTF would also write

to Minister and Destination NSW seeking that the entire Newell Highway be included the Destination

NSW drives and road trips.

Moved: Cr Tony Lord Seconded: Cr Vicki Etheridge

All in favour

Carried

6. General Business

Cr Vicki Etheridge mentioned that there are concerns about the proposed location of the River Street

Bridge. Cr Ben Shields the Mayor of Dubbo Regional Council had sent out the following community

survey regarding the location of the proposed River Street Bridge and other options and the results are

still being collated:



Cr Vicki Etheridge tabled the following schematic which clearly shows that some of the approach roads

to the proposed River Street Bridge would flood including the Newell Highway.

There was a general discussion on the proposed River Street Bridge and the other options that would be

less prone to flooding and to divert the heavy vehicles around Dubbo. The River Street Bridge had been

raised at previous NHTF meetings.

John mentioned that at the recently held RMS Regional Industry Forum in Dubbo, The Hon Troy Grant

MP Member for Dubbo said that the River Street Bridge would definitely be built at the River Street

location and a copy of the proposed location is attached with these minutes:


John Morris mentioned that there is a better option for the new Dubbo Bridge that will be flood free and

take into account the growth of Dubbo including the increased traffic movements. The proposed River

Street Bridge will require a 9.5 kilometre long detour when the Newell Highway is flooded just to the

north of Dubbo.

Cr Vicki Etheridge tabled the following schematic of a draft all vehicle bypass of Dubbo:


The NHTF will write to the State and Federal Government Ministers to encourage the Ministers to

investigate and build a freight bypass for Dubbo that will reduce the conflict between local and through

traffic on the Newell Highway and improve the flood immunity for Newell Highway and local traffic at

Dubbo.

Moved: John Morris Seconded: Cr Dennis Todd

All in favour

Carried

Cr Davies mentioned that heavy vehicles using the Tomingley and Eumungerie Roads use 22 litres of less

fuel and is 25 minutes faster on this route than the Newell Highway through Dubbo.

The Federal Government Roads of Strategic Importance (ROSI) information was distributed and tabled:

https://investment.infrastructure.gov.au/key_projects/initiatives/roads_strategic_importance.aspx. The

Hon. Scott Buchholz MP the Assistant Minister for Roads & Transport had been invited to attend the

NHTF meeting but had put an apology due a prior engagement. Following a discussion on ROSI the

NHTF will write a letter to the relevant Ministers and the Department of Infrastructure, Regional

Development and Cities to highlight the strategic importance of the Newell Highway.

Moved: Cr Graeme Miller Seconded: John Morris

All in favour

Carried

The National Freight and Supply Chain Strategy Industry Focus Group invitation was tabled. The Focus

Groups will be meeting in Darwin, Sydney, Canberra, Melbourne, Launceston, Adelaide, Townsville,

Brisbane, Perth and Albury. The Focus Groups will:

Provide the attendees with a brief overview of the Strategy and National Action Plan (NAP) and how

it will addresses industry priorities identified by the Inquiry into National Freight and Supply Chain

Priorities .

Explain how the Strategy links with state and territory freight initiatives and other work underway.

Test the structure and direction of the NAP with attendees through facilitated discussions.

Discuss government and industry’s role in implementing the Strategy and NAP.

Seek attendees feedback on further areas for consideration.

Following a discussion there will be some NHTF representatives attending the Sydney and Canberra

Focus Groups.

7. Roads and Maritime Services Update

Alistair mentioned that the River Street Bridge location was the preferred option in Dubbo and that the

benefits would be:

provide another river crossing and improve traffic flow during a flood

provide access from the north into Dubbo’s CBD during a flood

improve traffic flow in Dubbo and reduce average traffic delays

improve local and freight traffic access across the river

provide access for future growth in north west Dubbo

improve heavy vehicle access.

https://investment.infrastructure.gov.au/key_projects/initiatives/roads_strategic_importance.aspx

https://infrastructure.gov.au/transport/freight/freight-supply-chain-priorities/index.aspx

https://infrastructure.gov.au/transport/freight/freight-supply-chain-priorities/index.aspx


The Newell Highway Mitchell Highway intersection upgrade will cost approximately $20 million and

include the upgrade of the existing roundabout to a signalised intersection and include the following

works:

installing traffic lights to improve traffic flow

intersection widening to accommodate additional right turn traffic movements

providing safe pedestrian access

relocate underground service utilities and overhead power

The benefits of the Newell Highway and Mitchell Highway upgrade would be:

provide a highway intersection that allows safe and efficient movement of heavy vehicles up to 36.5m

to the north, south and west

reduce congestion and travel times

improve safety by reducing conflict between local and through traffic and between vehicles and

pedestrians and cyclists

Alistair Lunn provided the following RMS update:

The Parkes Bypass draft concept plan is completed and will now go back to the community for the

final round of consultation. The funding model is being negotiated as the allocated funding has been

redirected to the Newell Highway Overtaking Lane Alliance Program

The realignment at Grong Grong is completed after some minor vegetation works finished

The Newell Highway Overtaking Lane Alliance Program will develop, design and construct a

program of approximately 30 - 38 additional overtaking lanes along the length of the Newell Highway

from Tocumwal in the south to Goondiwindi in the north. The contract for the preferred contractor

for Newell Highway Overtaking Lane Alliance Program would be announced before the end of the

year with a delivery office established in either Parkes or Dubbo.

The Pilliga widening project is funded for development

The Heavy duty pavement upgrades between Mungle Back Creek and Boggabilla will be

commencing in the very near future

The planning and concept improvements through Coonabarabran have been completed and will

shortly be presented to Council, with the proposed work funded for development. A future bypass is

only in the early investigation stage.

The Newell Highway through Boggabilla will be realigned and is funded for development

General discussions following Alistair’s update including:

Luke McDermott mentioned at the Coonabarabran NHTF meeting that as part of the building of the

Inland Rail, Narrabri Shire Council would like to see land acquired for a heavy vehicle route next to

the Inland Rail. The NHTF will write to the Minister regarding the purchase of the land.

Moved: Cr Dennis Todd Seconded: Cr Vicki Etheridge

All in favour

Carried

Cr Dennis Todd mentioned that road trains are travelling through the main street of Coonabarabran

and Alistair said that this was a result of the NSW Governments new improved access for heavy

vehicles carrying supplies and stock to drought-affected areas which came into effect on 15 August.

Cr Graeme Miller raised the issue on the length of time and delays that would occur at the two rail

crossings between Forbes and Parkes when the Inland Rail is operational.


John Morris mentioned that Sal Petroccitto the Chief Executive Officer of the National Heavy Vehicle

Regulator visited Forbes and Dubbo saleyards recently to inspect saleyard operations.

Cr Keith John Zannes attended the Central NSW Joint Organisation Transport and Roads Committee

meeting where it was mentioned that there is push to get more freight on to rail and using the

Canberra and Toowoomba airports for international freight.

Cr Lord asked if there was any additional work being planned for Gillenbah and Alistair mentioned

that he was not aware of any and this was out of his area. Cr Lord also mentioned that there had been

an increase in traffic on the West Wyalong to Condobolin road.

The secretary will follow up the NHTF logo with Parkes Shire Council with wording of Task Force

included and the Y be made wider with a dotted line down the centre. The ends of the Y should also

be in a similar position as to the Newell Highway i.e. at Tocumwal in the South and Boggabilla in the

North

8. Next NHTF meeting dates and venues for 2019

2019 NHTF meeting dates and the NSW State Election will be held on Saturday 23 March 2019.

Tuesday 12 February 2019 to be held in West Wyalong

Parliament House Sydney with the date to be confirmed

Tuesday 13 August 2019 to be held in Dubbo and this will also be the AGM

Tuesday 12 November 2018 to be held in Forbes

9. The meeting finished at 11:40am

The NSW Government is planning for a new bridge over the Macquarie River in Dubbo. Roads and Maritime Services has identified the River Street option as the preferred route. The River Street option would continue from Thompson Street, near the Newell Highway, along a new road and follow the western river bank travelling north. It would then cross the river to connect to the Newell Highway near River Street in north Dubbo.

BackgroundThe Newell Highway is the longest highway in NSW. This main north-south route runs through Dubbo, including crossing the Macquarie River over Emile Serisier Bridge. This bridge crosses the river at a low level and is under water when the river floods, causing the bridge to close. In May 2016 community comment was invited on six possible options for a new bridge. All community and stakeholder feedback was considered and in September 2016, six options were shortlisted to three.

Feedback from the community and a number of specialist studies have been used to select the preferred option. More information about the options and completed investigations is available in a preferred option report which can be viewed at rms.work/dubbobridge

Project benefitsThe new bridge will:

• provide another river crossing and improve traffic flow during a flood

• provide access from the north into Dubbo’s CBD during a flood

• improve traffic flow in Dubbo and reduce average traffic delays

• improve local and freight traffic access across the river

• provide access for future growth in north west Dubbo

• improve heavy vehicle access.

Preferred route optionNew Dubbo BridgeDubbo, looking east over Emile Serisier Bridge

May 2017

http://rms.work/dubbobridge

Cobra Street (Mitchell Highway)

Maq

uar

ie S

tree

t

Myall Street

Erskine Street

Bo

urk

e St

reet

Railway overbridge

LH Ford

Bridge

Emile SerisierThompson StreetBridge

Minore Road

Baird Street

Victoria Street (Mitchell Highw

ay)

Wh

ylan

dra

Str

eet

(New

ell H

ighw

ay)

Mac

qu

arie

Riv

er

New

ell H

ighw

ay

Purvis Lane

(Golden Highway)

Cobbora Road

Narro

min

e to G

ilgan

dra R

ail Line

Narromine to

Gilgandra Rail Line

River Street

Dar

ling

Str

eet

Roads and Maritime is investigating intersection

options. These will be displayed for comment

once further design has been developed

Proposed new bridge over Macquarie River

Proposed Newell Highway upgrade

Existing highway

Railway

LEGEND

0 1.0

kilometres

Preferred route option features:• potentially extending the railway overbridge near Thompson Street • upgrading the intersection at Thompson Street• building a new road about one kilometre long that connects the new

bridge to the Newell Highway at Thompson Street• building a new bridge across the river• Upgraded intersection at Bourke Street and River Street, north Dubbo.

The preferred route option

Timing for building a new bridge in Dubbo is not confirmed and depends on planning approval and funding availability

May 2017 RMS 17.269

Project objectives The River Street option meets the project objectives to improve:

• freight efficiency and productivity for the Newell Highway

• access for high productivity vehicles (double road trains, B-triples, AB triples) through Dubbo, including during a flood

• local traffic flow and safety.

Community consultation

Display possible route options

Furtherinvestigations

Preferred route option announced

Concept design and environmental assessment

Approval to proceed*

Detailed design*

Construction*

Find out more Information about the options and completed investigations is available in the preferred option report which can be viewed at rms.work/dubbobridge

T 1800 741 636 (option 2)

E [email protected]

M New Dubbo Bridge Roads and Maritime Services PO Box 36 Dubbo NSW 2830

W rms.work/dubbobridge

We are

here

*Timing subject to approval and funding availability

Involving the communityWe will continue to work with the community and stakeholders during the planning process. Opportunities to give further feedback will be provided during concept design and environmental assessment stages.

Drop in sessionsCome by anytime to view the preferred option and speak with the project team at any of the following locations:

Dubbo Farmers Markets (Cnr Macquarie St and Newell Highway) Saturday 3 June 2017, 8am-12pm

Band Rotunda (Macquarie Street) Thursday 8 June 2017, 10am-2pm

Dubbo City Centre (at top of escalator) Wednesday 14 June 2017, 12.30-4.30pm

Orana Mall (in front of Connor Clothing) Friday 23 June 2017, 10am-2pm Monday 26 June 2017, 12-4pm

What happens next?We are carrying out consultation with affected landowners and key stakeholders, including Dubbo Regional Council. we will develop a concept design including intersection details and carry out an environmental assessment. The community will be invited to provide feedback during both design and environmental assessment.

Improving traffic flow

Improve travel speeds

Better and more

reliable trips for people, business and freight

Intersection

improvements

PrivacyRoads and Maritime Services (“RMS”) is subject to the Privacy and Personal Information Protection Act 1998 (“PPIP Act”) which requires that we comply with the Information Privacy Principles set out in the PPIP Act. All information in correspondence is collected for the sole purpose of delivering this project. The information received, including names and addresses of respondents, may be published in subsequent documents unless a clear indication is given in the correspondence that all or part of that information is not to be published. Otherwise RMS will only disclose your personal information, without your consent, if authorised by the law. Your personal information will be held at 1/188 Macquarie Street, Dubbo 2830. You have the right to access and correct the information if you believe that it is incorrect.

mailto:newell.upgrade%40rms.nsw.gov.au?subject=

http://rms.work/dubbobridge

1

MINUTES OF THE ASSOCIATION OF MINING & ENERGY RELATED COUNCILS (NSW) INCORPORATED, SPECIAL GENERAL MEETING HELD ON 9th NOVEMBER 2018 IN CROOKWELL MEMORIAL HALL, 33 – 35 DENISON ST, CROOKWELL, NSW.

1. Welcome by the Chair.

The Chair, Councillor Peter Shinton welcomed members to the meeting and opened the meeting at 9.10am.

2. Present Cr Peter Shinton Warrumbungle Shire Council (Chair) Cr Owen Hasler Gunnedah Shire Council Andrew Johns Gunnedah Shire Council Cr Sue Moore Singleton Council Cr Dan Thompson Singleton Council Cr Melanie Dagg Cessnock City Council Cr Michael Banasik Wollondilly Shire Council Cr Noel Lowry Wollondilly Shire Council David Henry Wollondilly Shire Council Cr Mark Hall Lachlan Shire Council Lisa Schiff Lachlan Shire Council Ron Zwicker Wollongong City Council Cr Scott Ferguson Blayney Shire Council Rebecca Ryan Blayney Shire Council Cr Phyllis Miller Forbes Shire Council Steve Loane Forbes Shire Council Cr Joanne McRae Orange City Council Cr Kevin Duffy Orange City Council Cr Alan Ward Parkes Shire Council Cr Liz McGlynn Bland Shire Council Cr Ian Davison Cabonne Shire Council Heather Nicholls Cabonne Shire Council Peter Vlatko Cobar Shire Council Cr Jarrod Marsden Cobar Shire Council Cr Karlene Irving Warren Shire Council In attendance Greg Lamont, Executive Officer. (Minute Taker) & John Bell, General Manager, Upper Lachlan Shire Council

3. Apologies. SMM 10/2018 Resolved (Cr Thompson/S.Loane) that the apologies of the following delegates be received and noted:- Greg Tory, Lachlan Shire Council; Councillor Robert Khan, Wollondilly Shire Council; Councillor Robert Hooke, Gunnedah Shire Council; Councillor Reg Kidd, Orange City Council; Councillors Dom Figliomeni and Cath Blakey, Wollongong City Council; Councillor Melisa Hederics & Ken Ross, Wentworth Shire Council; Councillor Kathryn Smith & Paul de Szell, Mid Coast Council; Michael McMahon, Cr Ben Shields, Dubbo Regional Council; Jason Linnane, Singleton Council; Jim Nolan, Broken Hill City Council; Cr Heather Druce & Glenn Wilcox, Warren Shire Council; Cr Manuel Martinez, Walgett Shire Council; Cr Jay Suvaal & Cr Bob Pynsent, Cessnock City Council; Cr Lilliane Brady OAM, Cobar Shire Council; Cr Des Kennedy & Brad Cam, Mid Western Regional Council.

2

4. Disclosures of Interest. (a) Mr Ron Zwicker declared an interest as a shareholder in AGL Gas Investments; (b) Cr Melanie Dagg declared an interest as her husband works at Rix’s Creek Mine

in the Hunter Valley; SMM 11/2018 Resolved (Cr Thompson/Cr Hall) that the disclosures of interest and reasons for them be received and noted.

5. Alterations to the Constitution. SMM 12/2018 Resolved (Cr Hasler/Cr Thompson) that Clause 4.5 Life Membership be altered to read:

The Association may grant life membership to a delegate/retiring delegate who has completed at least eight years of service for their council/s and has made an outstanding, recognised contribution to the Association;

The decision will be made by the Association at a General meeting;

Life membership may be granted in one of two forms as follows: o Active life membership – where the life member remains a current

delegate of their council with the normal rights attendant upon the role of delegate;

o Honorary Life Membership – which grants the retired delegate/officer an eminent role with the right to attend meetings and functions within the Association and the right to discuss issues before the Association but does not confer voting rights, nor the power to move or second any motion on any matter including the nomination or appointment of office bearers and staff members;

o An Active life member automatically becomes an Honorary Life Member on retirement from their role as a delegate.

(Note: the motion altering the constitution was passed unanimously – Cl 23)

6. Close. The meeting closed at 9.17am The minutes (pages 1-2) were confirmed at the Ordinary General Meeting held on 9th November 2018 and are a full and accurate record of proceedings of the meeting held on 9th November 2018. ………………………………… Cr Peter Shinton, Chairperson

1

MINUTES OF THE ASSOCIATION OF MINING & ENERGY RELATED COUNCILS (NSW) INCORPORATED, ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING HELD ON 9TH NOVEMBER 2018, AT CROOKWELL MEMORIAL HALL, 33 – 35 DENISON ST, CROOKWELL.

1. Welcome by Chair.

The Chair, Councillor Peter Shinton welcomed members to the meeting and declared the meeting open at 9.18AM

2. Present Cr Peter Shinton Warrumbungle Shire Council (Chair) Cr Owen Hasler Gunnedah Shire Council Andrew Johns Gunnedah Shire Council Cr Sue Moore Singleton Council Cr Dan Thompson Singleton Council Cr Melanie Dagg Cessnock City Council Cr Michael Banasik Wollondilly Shire Council Cr Noel Lowry Wollondilly Shire Council David Henry Wollondilly Shire Council Cr Mark Hall Lachlan Shire Council Lisa Schiff Lachlan Shire Council Ron Zwicker Wollongong City Council Cr Scott Ferguson Blayney Shire Council Rebecca Ryan Blayney Shire Council Cr Phyllis Miller Forbes Shire Council Steve Loane Forbes Shire Council Cr Joanne McRae Orange City Council Cr Kevin Duffy Orange City Council Cr Alan Ward Parkes Shire Council Cr Liz McGlynn Bland Shire Council Cr Ian Davison Cabonne Shire Council Heather Nicholls Cabonne Shire Council Peter Vlatko Cobar Shire Council Cr Jarrod Marsden Cobar Shire Council

Cr Karlene Irving Warren Shire Council

In attendance Greg Lamont, Executive Officer. (Minute Taker) & John Bell, General Manager, Upper Lachlan Shire Council

3. Apologies. AGM 1/2018 Resolved (Cr Dagg/Cr Thompson) that the apologies of the following delegates be received and noted:- Greg Tory, Lachlan Shire Council; Councillor Robert Khan, Wollondilly Shire Council; Councillor Robert Hooke, Gunnedah Shire Council; Councillor Reg Kidd, Orange City Council; Councillors Dom Figliomeni and Cath Blakey, Wollongong City Council; Councillor Melisa Hederics & Ken Ross, Wentworth Shire Council; Councillor Kathryn Smith & Paul de Szell, Mid Coast Council; Michael McMahon, Cr Ben Shields, Dubbo Regional Council; Jason Linnane, Singleton Council; Jim Nolan, Broken Hill City Council; Cr Heather Druce & Glenn Wilcox, Warren Shire Council; Cr Manuel Martinez, Walgett Shire Council; Cr Jay Suvaal & Cr Bob Pynsent, Cessnock City Council; Cr Lilliane Brady OAM, Cobar Shire Council; Cr Des Kennedy & Brad Cam, Mid Western Regional Council.

2

4. Disclosures of Interest. (a) Mr Ron Zwicker declared his interest as a shareholder in AGL Gas Investments; (b) Cr Melanie Dagg, Cessnock City Council declared her interest as her husband

works at Rix’s Creek Mine in the Hunter Valley; AGM 2/2018 Resolved (Cr Thompson/Cr Moore) that the disclosures of interest and reasons for them be received and noted.

5. Adoption of Minutes of Annual General Meeting held on 17th November 2017. AGM 3/2018 Resolved (Cr Thompson/Cr Lowry) that the minutes of the Association’s Annual General Meeting held on 17th November 2017, be received and noted.

6. Business arising from the Minutes of Annual General Meeting held on 17th November 2017. Nil

7. Chairperson’s 2018 Annual Report. AGM 4/2017 Resolved (Cr Shinton/Cr Miller) that the Chairperson’s 2018 Annual Report be received and noted.

8. Executive Officer’s 2018 Annual Report. AGM 5/2018 Resolved (Cr Moore/Cr Thompson) that the Executive Officer’s 2018 Annual Report be received and noted.

9. Election of Chairperson, Deputy Chairpersons and Executive Committee. The Chair Clr Peter Shinton vacated the seat at 9.20am. The Executive Officer reported that the following nominations for the Executive had been received and that there is to be an election for Deputy Chair positions using the preferential voting system as outlined in the Association’s constitution. The Executive Officer aIso indicated that in the event that one of the Deputy Chair positions is filled by the candidate who is also nominated for the Executive Committee, if not elected, then there is to be an election for the Executive Committee as the other nominations for the Deputy Chair positions have not nominated for the Executive Committee. This will be conducted by the Returning Officer calling for nominations from the delegates at the meeting and voting will be by using the preferential voting system as per the constitution. The Returning Officer, Mr John Bell, General Manager, Upper Lachlan Council conducted the election of Chairperson, Deputy Chairpersons and Executive Committee as follows: (a) Chairperson - one nomination was received from Cr Peter Shinton; (b) Deputy Chair - three nominations were received from Cr Lilliane Brady OAM, Cr

Sue Moore & Cr James Nolan; (c) Executive Committee - three nominations were received from Cr Owen Hasler,

Cr James Nolan & Cr Melanie Dagg.

3

Election results for 2018/2019 were as follows: Chairperson The Returning Officer declared Cr Peter Shinton elected as Chairperson unopposed. Deputy Chairpersons (2) The Returning Officer declared Cr Brady & Cr Moore elected as Deputy Chairpersons. Executive Committee The Returning Officer declared Councillors Owen Hasler, Melanie Dagg and James Nolan as duly elected to the Executive Committee. The Chair resumed the seat at 9.40am and thanked the Returning Officer and his independent assistant (Lisa Schiff) for the conduct of the elections for 2018/2019 and congratulated the new and continuing Councillors on being elected to the Executive Committee for 2018/2019 in their respective roles. AGM 6/2018 Resolved (S. Loane/Cr Moore) that the election results be noted and the ballot papers be destroyed. Vote of Thanks to Chris Connor AGM 7/2018 Resolved (Cr Moore/Cr Banasik) that a vote of thanks be extended to former Deputy Chair Chris Connor in appreciation of his work for the Association, particularly in regard to the Strategic Plan 2018 – 2020.

10. Financial Statements AGM 8/2018 Resolved (Cr Moore/Cr Dagg) that the Financial Report for 2017-2018 financial year (having been approved by the Executive Committee on 8th November 2018) be referred to the NSW Department of Fair Trading, in accordance with the Association Incorporations Act 2009.

11. 2018-2019 Budget AGM 9/2018 Resolved (Cr Thompson/Cr Dagg) that the 2018-2019 budget as presented be adopted by the Association.

12. Fees & Charges

AGM 10/2018 Resolved (Cr Thompson/Cr Moore) that (1) the Association membership fees for 2019 – 2020 remain the same as 2018 –

2019, being $7630, inclusive of GST; (2) the Executive Officer present a report to the 2019 Annual General Meeting on

the consideration of a levy increase to keep abreast of rising costs, increased expenditure of projects undertaken, submissions, etc., based on the Consumer Price Index and taking into account the length of time since the levy has not been increased.

13. 2018 Meeting Dates & Venues

AGM 11/2018 Resolved (Cr Banasik/Cr Marsden) that the 2019 meeting schedule

be as follows:-

(a) February and August 2019, to be held in Sydney, dates and venues to be confirmed by the Executive Committee in conjunction with NSW Parliament administration;

4

(b) May 2019 – Forbes Shire Council, dates and times to be determined; (c) November 2019 – Mid Coast Regional Council, if interested, if not then members

be canvassed to host the meeting

14. General Business (a) Resources Advisory Forum (RAF) – Nominations for Delegate 2018/19.

AGM 11/2018 Resolved (Cr Banasik/Cr Moore) that Cr Owen Hasler be appointed as the Association’s delegate to the Regional Advisory Forum for 2018/2019.

(b) Regional Independent Assessment Panel (RIAP) Delegate AGM 12/2018 Resolved (Cr Miller/Cr Thompson) that the information be noted.

(c) Western Mining Development Taskforce AGM 13/2018 Resolved (Cr Miller/Cr Thompson) that the information be noted.

(d) Subsidence NSW Advisory AGM 14/2018 Resolved (Cr Thompson/Cr Moore) that the information be noted.

15. Next Meeting. To be held in November 2019, location, date and venue to be confirmed by the Executive Committee.

16. Close. The meeting closed at 10.00am The minutes (pages 1-4) were confirmed at the Annual General meeting of the Association held on the _____________ and are a full and accurate record of proceedings of the meeting held on 9th November 2018. ………………………………………….

Cr Peter Shinton Chairperson

MINUTES OF THE ASSOCIATION OF MINING & ENERGY RELATED COUNCILS (NSW) ORDINARY MEETING HELD AT CROOKWELL MEMORIAL HALL, 33 – 35 DENISON STREET, CROOKWELL, NSW, 9th NOVEMBER 2018

1

Present Cr Peter Shinton Warrumbungle Shire Council (Chair) Cr Owen Hasler Gunnedah Shire Council Andrew Johns Gunnedah Shire Council Cr Sue Moore Singleton Council Cr Dan Thompson Singleton Council Cr Melanie Dagg Cessnock City Council Cr Michael Banasik Wollondilly Shire Council Cr Noel Lowry Wollondilly Shire Council David Henry Wollondilly Shire Council Cr Mark Hall Lachlan Shire Council Lisa Schiff Lachlan Shire Council Ron Zwicker Wollongong City Council Cr Scott Ferguson Blayney Shire Council Rebecca Ryan Blayney Shire Council Cr Phyllis Miller Forbes Shire Council Steve Loane Forbes Shire Council Cr Joanne McRae Orange City Council Cr Kevin Duffy Orange City Council Cr Alan Ward Parkes Shire Council Cr Liz McGlynn Bland Shire Council Cr Ian Davison Cabonne Shire Council Heather Nicholls Cabonne Shire Council Peter Vlatko Cobar Shire Council Cr Jarrod Marsden Cobar Shire Council Cr Karlene Irving Warren Shire Council Minute Taker Mr Greg Lamont Executive Officer Speakers Dr Juan Castilla – Rho University of Wollongong Apologies Greg Tory, Lachlan Shire Council; Councillor Robert Khan, Wollondilly Shire Council; Councillor Robert Hooke, Gunnedah Shire Council; Councillor Reg Kidd, Orange City Council; Councillors Dom Figliomeni and Cath Blakey, Wollongong City Council; Councillor Melisa Hederics & Ken Ross, Wentworth Shire Council; Councillor Kathryn Smith & Paul de Szell, Mid Coast Council; Michael McMahon, Cr Ben Shields, Dubbo Regional Council; Jason Linnane, Singleton Council; Jim Nolan, Broken Hill City Council; Cr Heather Druce & Glenn Wilcox, Warren Shire Council; Cr Manuel Martinez, Walgett Shire Council; Cr Jay Suvaal & Cr Bob Pynsent, Cessnock City Council; Cr Lilliane Brady OAM, Cobar Shire Council; Cr Des Kennedy & Brad Cam, Mid Western Regional Council. 1. Welcome The Chair, Councillor Peter Shinton welcomed members, observers and speakers to the meeting and declared the meeting open at 10.01am 2. Apologies OM 28/2018 Resolved (Cr Thompson/Cr Dagg) that the apologies for delegates listed be received and noted.


2

Suspension of Standing Orders for Speakers and Morning Tea OM 29/2018 Resolved (Cr Miller/Irving) that standing orders be suspended to allow the speakers to address delegates and for morning tea, at 10.03am. Speakers were:

Dr Juan Casilla - Rho. (Copies of the presentation will be forwarded to delegates)

Resumption of Standing Orders OM 30/2018 Resolved (Cr Moore/Cr Lowry) that standing orders be resumed at 11.05am.

3. Disclosures of Pecuniary Interest (a) Mr Ron Zwicker declared an interest as a shareholder in AGL Gas Investments; (b) Cr Melanie Dagg declared an interest as her husband works at Rix’s Creek Mine,

Hunter Valley; OM 31/2018 Resolved (Cr Hasler/Cr Loane) that the disclosures of interest be received and noted. 4. Adoption of the Minutes of the Ordinary General Meeting – 10th August 2018 OM 32/2018 Resolved (Cr Dagg/Cr Hall) that the minutes of the Ordinary meeting held on 10th August 2018 be received and noted.

5. Business Arising from the Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting - 10th August 2018 Nil.

6. Adoption of Minutes of Executive Committee Meeting – 8th November 2018 OM 34/2018 Resolved (Cr Moore/Cr Hasler that the minutes of the Executive Committee meeting held on 8th November 2018 be received and noted with the following changes:-

3 (c)2 RIAP – Minute No ECM 52/2018 be altered to read: The Association write to the major political parties requesting they change the current percentage being returned to the LGA’s that are impacted from where the royalties were sourced and asking them to make that part of their election platform; 3 (e) Meetings with Minister’s & Senior Staff – Minute No ECM 54/2018 to have the following actions added to it: The Association write to the Secretary, DPE expressing the Associations appreciation that someone from the DPE attended our wind farming workshop on 8th November 2018, however delegates were extremely disappointed that the Executive Director, (David Kitto), a senior officer from the DPE, could not attend to answer higher level questions from delegates that the junior staff that attended in his place were not informed sufficiently in order to do so. 3 (f) Membership Campaign – Minute No ECM 55/2018 be altered to read: The Executive Officer approach the Country Mayor’s Association Executive Officer requesting an opportunity for the Chair and Executive Officer of the Association of Mining & Energy Related Councils to present to their delegates on the merits of being a member of our Association. (Note: It was also agreed by delegates that the Executive Officer forward the template used for proposals to entice members, for their input on the benefits and details provided to prospects, relevant statistics on the number of renewable


3

developments that are emerging in NSW and to put these details on the website plus to include testimonials from delegates as to “why we are part of MERC” and the benefits of being a member of MERC. 3 (m) 2 Delegates Report – RAF Minute No ECM62/2018 to read: The Association write to the Minister for Planning & Environmental Services, Hon Anthony Roberts, seeking the status of the E.I.A reforms, indicating our support for the implementation of them; and to arrange a meeting with Nick Kaldas in order to have direct input into his review of the governance risks associated with planning and to pursue the need for change.

7. Business Arising from Minutes of Executive Committee Meeting – 8th

November 2018 Nil

8. Adoption of the Minutes of the Special General Meeting held on 9th November

2018 OM/35/2018 Resolved (Cr Banasik/Cr Mc Rae) that the minutes of the Special General meeting held on 9th November 2018 be received and noted.

9. Business arising from the Minutes of the Special General Meeting held on 9th November 2018 Nil

10. Executive Officers Report The Executive Officer went through the items in his report that related to matters on the Agenda for this meeting.

11. Delegates Reports (a) Resources Advisory Forum (RAF). Delegate Cr Owen Hasler, provided an

update on the latest RAF meeting held on 18th October 2018 in Sydney. (b) Western Mining Development Taskforce. Nil report due to apology Cr Brady. (c) Subsidence Advisory NSW (SANSW) and Mines Subsidence Board (MSB).

Cr Mel Dagg provided delegates with a brief update on the latest position with SANSW (MSB) changes.

(d) Regional Independent Assessment Panel. The Executive Officer provided an update via the Executive Officer’s Report.

OM 36/2018 Resolved (Cr Moore/Cr Banasik) that the reports provided by the delegates be received and noted.

12. Notice of Motion

OM 36/2018 Resolved (Cr Duffy/Cr Moore) that the Executive Committee of the Association of Mining & Energy Related Councils (NSW) Incorporated, urgently commence to develop policies regarding energy sources such as fossil fuel, wind, solar, coal seam gas, etc. The policies are to be created in consultation with the NSW State Government and the Associations’ Local Government members.

13. Speaker & Presentation by Dr Juan Castilla – Rho, University of Wollongong. The presentation on “Participatory Collaborative Modelling” was provided to delegates during suspension of standing orders at the start of the meeting. The power point presentation is to be forwarded to delegates.


4

14. General Business (a) Energy from Waste – Clr Scott Ferguson

OM 37/2018 Resolved (Cr Ferguson/Cr Banasik) that the Executive Officer of the Association Mining & Energy Related Councils contact the Country Mayors Association in order to have the Chair and Executive Officer attend the leaders debate workshop on the Energy from Waste campaign led by Tenterfield Council and being organised for March 2019.

(b) Life Membership – John Martin OM 38/2018 Resolved (Cr Thompson/Cr Banasik) that former Chair of the Association (John Martin - Singleton Council) be nominated for life membership. (Note: Protocol stipulates that nominations be accepted from delegates at an Ordinary General meeting and be referred to the Executive Committee for endorsement thereafter presented with a badge, a certificate and benefit statement therein at a future General meeting of the Association))

(c) PhD Fellowship Proposal - University of Wollongong (UoW) & MERC OM 39/2018 Resolved (Cr Thompson/Cr Banasik) that (1) the Executive Committee continue discussions with the University of

Wollongong with a view to accepting the PhD Fellowship proposal subject to satisfactory financial terms being agreed before commencement;

(2) a working party be established to champion the proposal, scope the fellowship topic that will benefit the majority of members, explore funding opportunities (grants, levies, research, partnerships, sponsorship, UoW, etc.) and to drive the project to fruition;

(3) a Memorandum of Understanding being completed by the parties to ensure the arrangements for the PhD Fellowship are transparent, timely and cost effective;

(4) a report on progress be presented to delegates at the February 2019 Ordinary General meeting.

(Note: Clr Dan Thompson (Singleton Council), Clr Joanne McRae (Orange City Council) and Rebecca Ryan (Blayney Shire Council) have indicated their interest in being on the working party with the Executive Officer and Dr Juan Castilla – Rho from UoW)

15. Next Meetings – Sydney 7/8th February 2019, NSW Parliament House

16. Close – the meeting closed at 12.50pm

The minutes (pages 1-4) were confirmed at a meeting of the Ordinary Meeting held on the 8th February 2018 and are a concise and accurate record of proceedings of the Ordinary meeting held on 9th November 2018. …………………………………………. Cr Peter Shinton Chairperson

WIND FARMING WORKSHOP, CROOKWELL - 8th November 2018

The afternoon featured the following speakers:

ANDREW BRAY - National Co-ordinator, Australian Wind Alliance

700 jobs in the industry-some $421 million every year to the regions;

$17.5 to $20 million go to “hosts” (property owners) each year-a figure which is

likely to rise with new windfarms to be installed;

Economic benefits:

o sharing of community benefits via:

1) community enhancement funds (or VPA’s)

2) community ownership investment

3) payment to hosts

4) payment to neighbours (in some cases)

o doing business:

1) direct jobs

2) indirect jobs

3) local business

4) council contributions

Community benefits are seen to be equitable and proportionate;

Community Enhancement Funds-benefit community/environment/education;

He pointed out that the Coonooer Bridge Windfarm was a good example of

engagement early with the community.

Scott Ferguson, Blayney Shire Council Mayor, said that their recent example of a

proposed development had been very divisive with neighbour against neighbour,

etc and that there has to be better way of engaging communities.

CHARLIE PRELL –Windfarmer and ex-Upper Lachlan Shire Councillor

the DPE take notice of Councils’ DCP’s in relation to locating windfarms;

most restraints are placed on visual conditions rather than health related issues

including noise, etc.;

some developers have no consideration for neighbours;

windfarms can be on rural land WITH consent-including council consent;

NO planning by our state and federal govts in relation to such developments;

Has changed because of the economics of windfarms eg a 99 metre tower with 66

metre blade on same hardstand produces 5 times the previous model;

Charlie’s own personal journey in the industry commenced during the millennium

drought;

Fiona Simson “wrote” NFF’s policy for windfarms;

Rehabilitation responsibility - in answering an earlier question in relation to who

is responsible for the rehab of windmills, Charlie said it is the INITIAL

responsibility of the proponent but could end up the responsibility of the landowner

(host) but he was prepared to wear such because of the return from the scrap metal

would buffer the loss;

He also pointed out that there is often a period of time between approval and

construction;

Assistance by DPE is often seen as pro-developers/proponents;

Good practice involves-professional community engagement;

Windfarms which cover the size of a hall produce the equivalent of a 15 hectare

solar farm:

There are places for solar and windfarms and, NOT SO in some instances.

CHRIS BERRY, Director of Planning, Yass Shire Council

Upper Lachlan Shire has taken the brunt of windfarm development in NSW;

the success of projects IS ALL ABOUT COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT- and it

was absolutely abysmal in the earlier instances;

Chris moved to the Yass Shire Council some 5 years ago when there had already

been a number of approvals;

windfarms were unfamiliar territory and council had no policy position and

provided re active responses;

however, the three councils made it clear they would meet as one body and not be

split by the proponents;

councils have to be consistent and act in the interest of the majority of people in

the community recognizing that there are those in favour of development and

others against and benefits/effects beyond those who hosted the infrastructure;

Community Enhancement Fund-this benefited the whole of the Shire and should

not be run by the proponents but, rather, by local government “to achieve

transparency”;

Delivery of the blades and towers to the sites are not the major problem for

councils but, rather, the myriad gravel and cement trucks which create the

problems-often utilizing roads which were not identified in the application;

community concerns and consultation-this was done very poorly in the early

applications;

council voted 5-4 against having windfarms initially then to 7-2 against. After a

forum with selected speakers, site visit (which re-inforced opposition) the council

reverted to a no policy/individual response position after a recission motion was

carried 7- 2;

Issues include:

1) roads (the DPE don’t understand road issues);

2) community enhancement funds-who controls such;

3) time factor-5 year approval period to construct-causes friction in

community;

4) council has turned initial resolution into policy;

5) there are limited guidelines for VPA/community enhancement issues;

JOHN BELL-GENERAL MANAGER UPPER LACHLAN SHIRE COUNCIL

shire of 7,500 sq kms with a population of 8,000 people

530 kms of electricity lines crisscross the shire

Sydney/Moomba Gasline bisects the shire

WINDFARMS INCLUDE:

o Crookwell 1- 8 turbines

o Crookwell 2- a must see on the Goulburn Road with viewing area

o Gunning- 31 towers, 1 property had minimal issues but no community

enhancement fund!!! $1000 per turbine, no CPI, minimal benefit to

community;

now have 10 windfarms approved with 199 operational turbines - 6 of the farms

are operational, 2 are approved and under construction;

also have solar developments in the Shire;

Upper Lachlan’s Experience has shown that a majority of community were

receptive but the NIMBY factor exists;

Conducted early survey which showed 70% in favour supported renewable energy

with 30% opposed;

The position now is - Mr Bell believes that the situation would be interesting and

he doubted whether the support would be that high now as the issue has divided

the community between the “haves” and “have nots” (ie. Those receiving

payments) wedding party friends have split, etc;

Council is seen as the enforcer of conditions and this is clearly a problem as the

small council is not the consent authority which is, in fact, the DPE for SSD;

community has high expectations as to road improvement;

roads are, however, fit for purpose NOT fit for windfarm construction eg. Myriad

of heavy concrete trucks;

Example - in 2004 they allowed concrete to be carried up rural roads and repair

after the event! They won’t do that again as the roads wore torn to pieces. They

repaired the roads but the community had to put up with the disrepair for over 1

year. This situation is not happening now as the road works are now done prior to

the construction of the mills.

a DCP has been created to ensure the policy of $2,500 per windmill goes to the

community enhancement fund and that a Section 355 Council Committee

administers the fund with 2 community reps who cannot be landowners, etc.;

a further $5,000 per windfarm goes into technical support/ admin costs;

road upgrades are now negotiated, we do not allow use unless bonds are paid and

VPA signed eg. 25 yrs x $200,000 per yr = $5 million to enhancement fund;

- Steve Loane , Forbes GM and former Warrumbungle GM, complimented Mr Bell

on the assistance that he (Mr Bell) provided to Warrumbungle Council when they

were first approached by a proponent re a development on the Liverpool Ranges.

This development (believed to be the largest in NSW) was recently approved. He

pointed out that some developers gain approval and then on-sell the development

and therefore, the council needs to tie in the contract for that eventuality.

PHILLIPA DUNCAN- replacement for David Kitto from DPE who spoke of the

Department’s position on windfarm development.

I asked the following questions:

1) The DPE Community Consultation Plans (CCP’s) refer to “open and inclusive”

and “meaningful consultation”. However it is attitudinal change that is required

by proponents as the community demand similar respect from Department

officials as that received by developers and proponents.

Ms Duncan indicated that there was a significant understanding that such change

was necessary and recent policy reviews were attempting to improve the situation.

2) I asked Ms Duncan to explain what is meant by “Public Interest” as referred to in

many DPE documents - does it mean that “jobs and royalties to the state are more

important than economically sustainable development”?

Ms Duncan made a valiant attempt to explain this term.

3) The Corbyn Report- given that Ms Corbyn had “diplomatically” criticized the

department finding many negatives and few positives with 15 recommendations

unanimously adopted by the Department, what did she believe as an officer of the

performance of the department.?

Ms Duncan said she would leave further comment to more senior officers of the

DPE!

LISA SCHIFF- Planning Officer, Lachlan Shire-

Ms Schiff indicated that trust between council staff and DPE staff was affected by

difficulties in making contact, returning calls and the like.

Ms Duncan said that was an area for obvious improvement in some areas of the

DPE operations.

Councillor Owen Hasler

MERC Delegate, Gunnedah Shire Council

1 | P a g e

YASS VALLEY’S EXPERIENCE WITH WINDFARMS – THE GOOD, THE BAD AND THE UGLY!

Presentation to Mining & Energy Related Councils NSW

November 2018

INTRODUCTION

My experience with Windfarms commenced at Goulburn Mulwaree Council around 2006-10.

The Sothern Tablelands area had been recognised by the State Government as an area with the wind resources suitable for Windfarms.

Inevitably the industry would focus its interest in the region - Upper Lachlan Shire, Goulburn Mulwaree, Yass Valley, Hilltops and Palerang.

Councils in the region were well aware of what was happening in Upper Lachlan and the divisive nature of the land use in local communities.

On arriving at Yass Valley Council it was clear there was a lack of direction and a confusion over its role in the planning process. Council was used to being the planning authority and arbitrating between competing interests. Being a third party in the planning process was unfamiliar.

YASS VALLEY

I arrived in 2014 after several Windfarms had been approved. There were concerns at the time with:

The ‘divide and conquer’ approach of the proponents

The lack of a policy position so Council ended up: o Reacting to each proposal and becoming involved in separate negotiations o No clear basis for negotiating

No consistency with sharing the benefits

So I advocated for an approach based on Council acting in the interests of all ratepayers i.e.

Council is not the decision maker on Windfarm projects o Council is not responsible for assessing the impacts o No need for Council to use its scares resources to duplicate what is a DPE responsibility

or the responsibility of other State agencies

Council should focus on issues that: o It had direct responsibility for on behalf of all residents/ratepayers (i.e. road assets) o How the benefits would be shared for the whole community not just those directly

affected

APPROACH FOCUS 2014-18

Council’s submissions then focused on three key areas i.e.

1. Community Enhancement Fund

Developing a policy base for a Community Enhancement Fund to share the benefits for the whole local government area o Areas within close proximity are sparsely populated o People in these areas are directly impacted by the Windfarms and the planning

process is focused on mitigating these impacts o People in these area also use community facilities in towns and villages o Didn’t want to duplicate facilities o Recently seen the rise of neighbourhood benefits payments (in addition to the

host payments)

2 | P a g e

o Council does not recognise these – private arrangements aimed at mitigating the direct impacts and nothing to do with the Community Enhancement Fund

2. Road Infrastructure

Took a similar approach to ULSC o Existing roads are ‘lightly trafficked’ and generally satisfactory for the current

level of use o Road must be fit for the intended traffic prior to construction on site and

maintain to this standard throughout the construction phase before being handed back to Council for ongoing maintenance after this

3. Community Consultation

Council wanted to ensure that: o There was provision for the community to participate in the planning process o There were opportunities for submitters to view assessment report prior to any

decision being made o There was an opportunity for submitters to address the Independent Planning

Commission locally o IPC to make its decision following consideration of all representations (not simply

a ‘rubber stamp’)

APPROACH 2018

In May 2018 a Notice of Motion was received i.e.

That Council opposes in principle the siting of new industrial wind turbines on Yass Valley

The motion was successfully carried 5-4

Council also resolved:

To reconvene for a special workshop to determine appropriate wording to present to the State Government on its position on industrial wind turbine farms which will come back to Council for a vote

This motion was successfully carried 7-2

Several residents, all opponents of Windfarms, spoke to the motion in the Open Forum prior to the meeting.

Following the meeting several Councillors were concerned that the presentations to the Open Forum had been biased and not representative of all the views within the wider community on Windfarms. This led to a Notice of Recession Motion being lodged.

In preparation for the Special Workshop and to ensure a range of views was canvassed a Planning Forum was organised. The forum provided the opportunity for key stakeholders to address Councillors (without the formality of a Council meeting) i.e.

Windfarm neighbour

Windfarm host

Yass Landscape Guardians

Australian Wind Alliance

Department of Planning & Environment

The format was a short 5 minute presentation to Councillors followed by an opportunity for Councillors to ask questions of the presenters.

The purpose of the forum was for Councillors to gain a better understanding of the issue from different perspectives.

3 | P a g e

A site inspection to a Crookwell Windfarm currently under construction was organised for Councillors. The Councillors also heard from a plant contractor and motel operator. For those who attended the visit it reinforced their concerns i.e.

Some people made lots of money

Internal roads scarred the landscape and the agricultural capacity of the land

Visual blight on the landscape

Following the Forum and site inspection Councillors then held its Workshop to develop its approach to Windfarms and renewable energy projects in Yass Valley.

In June 2018 Council considered the Recession Motion and the outcomes from the workshop and forum.

The Rescission Motion was successful 7-2. This effectively ‘cleared the books’ to enable debate on alternatives developed from the forum and workshop. Council determined that:

A. Having considered the social, environmental, economic and strategic planning impacts on the Yass Valley communities and the cumulative impacts of the four approved wind farm sites Council is of the view that it has reached the maximum number of industrial scale turbines for the local government area

B. While supportive of renewable energy in general, Council opposes in principle, further large scale wind turbine sites in Yass Valley

C. Council will consider any further proposed renewable energy projects on its individual merits with the following matters (in addition to the Department of Planning & Environment’s Wind Energy Guide or the like) to be taken into account until a more detailed policy position is developed: 1. The location being consistent with the Yass Valley Settlement Strategy 2. The infrastructure (e.g. turbines, panels, substations) not being within view lines of

villages and towns or areas of closer settlement 3. The infrastructure not having an adverse impact on the amenity of other dwellings. 4. The impact of infrastructure (e.g. turbines, panels) on the rural landscape and tourism

values of the Yass Valley 5. Roads being used by any heavy vehicles being upgraded to the appropriate standard in

Council’s Roads Standards Policy prior to commencement of works on site 6. A sharing the benefits scheme(s) with the host landowners, immediate neighbours and a

Community Enhancement Fund (as per Council policy) 7. Noise impacts at adjoining dwellings being consistent with the applicable standards. 8. The project to commence within 5 years of a Consent being issued and completed within

5 years of commencement 9. The impacts of the infrastructure (e.g. panels, turbines) on the heritage values of the site

and Yass Valley 10. The economic and social impacts on local communities and Yass Valley 11. Any community and Rural Fire Service concerns in relation to the bushfire risks and any

impediments to firefighting operations D. Council will, following consultation with the community, develop a comprehensive policy on

renewable energy generation within the Yass Valley and the matters Council should focus on

CONCLUSION

Windfarm and other renewable energy projects are divisive in the community.

Much misinformation circulates in the community, which becomes ‘fact’.

The planning system reinforces this misinformation by requiring each project to repeat work previously examined in other projects e.g.

4 | P a g e

Health impacts

Impacts on land values

Aviation impacts

Every EIS prepared requires these issues to be addressed. All EIS’s simply refer to the published research/survey. Bu it gives the impression that a different conclusion will be reached by going down the same path.

The conclusions from those should be now standard and not further work is needed.

Guidelines should be more directive on the outcomes expected from Windfarms / Renewable Energy i.e.

Road upgrades

Community Enhancement Funds

Council’s should focus on the whole of community issues. With renewable energy projects being divisive the challenge is how to represent both supporters and opponents of Windfarms. Focusing on roads and community enhancement is one way of achieving this balance.

If Councils want to take a political/ideological approach to windfarms in their local government area either don’t involve your planning staff or don’t criticise them for presenting their technical opinions – they are supposed to act impartially and independently of Councillors.

Chris Berry Director Planning Yass Valley Council

MINUTES OF THE SOUTH-WEST ZONE MEETING RIVERINA REGIONAL LIBRARY ADMINISTRATION CENTRE

THURSDAY 15 NOVEMBER 2018

Delegates Attending

Cr Yvonne Braid Cr Barbara Bryon Cr Dennis Glanville Cr Pam Halliburton Cr Dan Hayes Cr Tony Reneker Cr Margaret Roles Cr Gaila Smith Cr Bronwyn Thomas Cr Dallas Tout Cr Jan Wyse

Michelle Head Amy Heap Penny Howse Sue Killham Robert Knight Cathy Lange Terry O’Keefe Janice Ottey Cindy Smith Helen Underwood Karen Wendt

Welcome and Apologies

Cr Dallas Tout welcomed everyone and opened the meeting. Apologies were received from: Cr Leigh Bowden Claire Campbell Carina Clement Cr Jenny Dwyer Ariane Fehring Cr Bev Furner Cr Tammy Galvin Cr Julia Ham Robyn Howard Cr Rod Kendall Wendy Manning Cr Abb McAlister Helen McLoughlin

Cameron Morley Cr Anne Napoli Cr Mike Neville Anne Nevins Cr Max Oliver Cr Denise Osborne Brian Plummer Cr Charlie Sheahan Cr Dennis Sleigh Karen Tagliapietra Cr David Thurley Rhonda Twomey

Speakers, Workshops and Presentations

3 Cr Dallas Tout, NSWPLA President, delivered a presentation about the NSWPLA Renew Our Libraries funding campaign.

4 Workshop Facilitator, Amy Heap from Riverina Regional Library, facilitated a Renew Our Zone presentation and workshop about zone collaboration and contribution.

Reports and General Business

5 Confirmation of minutes of previous meeting – 19 April 2018 (Coolamon) The minutes of the previous meeting held on 19 April 2019 were endorsed. A motion to endorse the minutes of the previous meeting was received by Sue Killham and seconded by Cr Yvonne Braid.

6 State Library of NSW Report Robert Knight presented highlights from the State Library of NSW report. See report attached.

7 Public Library Consultative Committee Report Robert Knight provided an update on the activities of the Public Library Consultative Committee. See report attached.

8 NSW Public Libraries Association Cr Dallas Tout provided an executive update on the activities of the NSWPLA Association. See report attached. SWITCH / REACH OUT 2018 The NSWPLA SWITCH 2018 conference is scheduled for 27-30 November 2018 at Coffs Harbour. Registrations closed on 2 November, with a total of 265 attendees registering to attend the conference. AMLOSN Update A combined Mobile Library and Outreach Services Symposium will be held on 26-27 November 2018 in conjunction with the SWITCH Conference. The symposium will include guest speakers, presentations, workshops and panel sessions. Registrations have now closed.

9 South West Zone Digital Library Report Robert Knight provided an update on the South West Zone Digital Library and statistics overview. See report attached.

10 South West Zone Training and Events Amy Heap provided an update on zone-wide training and events held and proposed future training. See report attached.

11 General Business

Motions from zones to NSWPLA AGM

Motions for the NSWPLA AGM were due on 5 October. The SWZ recommends that the NSWPLA Executive Officer calls for motions from the zones earlier in the year (eg, March) to ensure that all zones that hold their second meetings for the year after the deadline will have more time to consider motions for the AGM.

A motion to accept the recommendation was received by Cr Yvonne Braid and seconded by Penny Howse.

SWZ Meetings – Revised Timetable

The September meeting of SWZ Library Managers recommended a revision of the meeting timetable for SWZ meetings with a view to spreading meetings further across months of the year. Currently the SWZ Library Managers meetings are held in March and September and SWZ meetings in April and October. It is recommended that SWZ meetings be held in May and November each year commencing in 2019 as follows:

13 March – SWZ Library Managers Meeting

30 May – SWZ Meeting

25 September – SWZ Library Managers Meeting

14 November – SWZ Meeting A motion to accept the recommendation was received by Cr Jan Wyse and seconded by Cathy Lange.

12 Next SWZ Meeting – 30 May 2019 Narrandera The next SWZ Meeting will be held on 30 May 2018 at Narrandera. Registration forms will be distributed in April 2019 and Councillor attendance is strongly encouraged to ensure continued engagement at the elected level.

13 Next SWZ Library Managers Meeting – 13 March 2019 at Tocumwal The next SWZ Library Managers meeting will be held on 13 March 2019 at Tocumwal

The meeting closed at 11:35am and was followed by lunch at the venue.

Cr Dallas Tout thanked the staff of Riverina Regional Library for their kind hospitality.

November 2018

State Library of NSW report November 2018

Subsidies and grants Public Library Funding – Major Increase from 2019/20 The Premier, the Hon Gladys Berejiklian, and the Minister for the Arts, the Hon Don Harwin announced a significant new public library funding package on 24 August 2018, totalling $60M over the forward estimates to 2022/23. Please see the media release here: https://www.nsw.gov.au/your-government/the-premier/media-releases-from-the-premier/record-investment-for-public-libraries/ This is the largest single commitment to increasing public library funding by the NSW Government since the Library Act was introduced in 1939, and the State Library is excited at the prospect of working with NSW councils to ensure that these funds significantly improve public libraries statewide. The new package will include a $24M capital grant program, and increases to subsidy and subsidy adjustment payments for all councils. The State Library is able to share some high level detail on the funding commitment, however please note that the finer details, including individual council payments, will be confirmed once additional modelling and stakeholder consultation has been undertaken. The information to date is available at: https://www.sl.nsw.gov.au/public-library-services/subsidies-grants/public-library-funding-201920 Public Library Funding 2018-19 The State Budget was announced on 19 June 2018. The 2018/19 allocation totals $23.528M. The funding has reduced from the $28.8M provided in 2017/18, due to the expiry of the 4-year Public Library Infrastructure Grants program, and the $1.3M adjustments provided for 2016/17 and 2017/18 only. Note that the Minister for the Arts, the Hon Don Harwin MLC, indicated in Parliament on 19 June that $5M of the Regional Cultural Fund would be for regional public library infrastructure projects. Applications for Round Two closed on Friday 21 September 2018. Additional funding for a metropolitan library grant program is under consideration and the State Library will provide further detail once it is available. The distribution model for the 2018/19 public library funding is on the State Library website at https://www.sl.nsw.gov.au/public-library-services/subsidies-grants/public-library-funding-201819 . To receive the subsidies all councils must complete the application forms that are available at https://www.sl.nsw.gov.au/public-library-services/financial-reporting-subsidy-applications Forms are due by 30 November 2018. Contact: Cameron Morley

https://www.nsw.gov.au/your-government/the-premier/media-releases-from-the-premier/record-investment-for-public-libraries/

https://www.nsw.gov.au/your-government/the-premier/media-releases-from-the-premier/record-investment-for-public-libraries/

https://www.sl.nsw.gov.au/public-library-services/subsidies-grants/public-library-funding-201920




https://www.sl.nsw.gov.au/public-library-services/financial-reporting-subsidy-applications

https://www.sl.nsw.gov.au/public-library-services/financial-reporting-subsidy-applications

November 2018

Advice and best practice Public Libraries Consultative Committee The most recent PLCC meeting was on 23 July 2018 at the State Library. Minutes of previous meetings are online here: http://www.sl.nsw.gov.au/public-library-services/public-libraries-consultative-committee-minutes The next meeting is scheduled for 4 December 2018. Contact: Cameron Morley Remaking of the Library Regulation The Library Regulation 2010 was renewed on 1 September 2018, and has become the Library Regulation 2018. The regulation is available at https://www.sl.nsw.gov.au/public-library-services/advice-best-practice/legislation The Regulation was discussed at the Public Libraries Consultative Committee in March 2018, and local government stakeholders agreed that no changes were to be recommended. See item 3.1 of the PLCC Minutes of 12 March 2018 here: https://www.sl.nsw.gov.au/sites/default/files/march2018plcc_minutes.pdf Note that there are some minor wording changes in the 2018 Regulation to ensure clarity. The Regulation is made under s15 of the Library Act 1939, and makes provision for the management of the State Library of NSW and local libraries operated by local authorities. The Regulation enables the State Library and local libraries to make rules for the use of library collections, services and spaces; and to regulate the conduct of users of the State Library and local libraries. The Regulation sets out the maximum fee that may be charged for the late return of borrowed library material, and the calculation of fees that may be charged to borrowers for lost or damaged library material. The Regulation determines the prescribed amount for annual per capita subsidies payable from the State of NSW to local authorities that operate libraries in accordance with the Library Act 1939, and the determination of local populations for subsidy purposes. The Government has announced that the prescribed amount for subsidy will increase over 4 years to $2.85 by 2022/23. The State Library understands that incremental amendments to the prescribed amount (clause 18 of the Regulation) would be made in the year that the increases take effect. Contact: Cameron Morley Strategic Network Committee The most recent Strategic Network Committee meeting was on 19 October 2018 at the State Library. Minutes will be available on the State Library website once confirmed: http://www.sl.nsw.gov.au/public-library-services/strategic-network-committee-minutes

http://www.sl.nsw.gov.au/public-library-services/public-libraries-consultative-committee-minutes

http://www.sl.nsw.gov.au/public-library-services/public-libraries-consultative-committee-minutes

https://www.sl.nsw.gov.au/public-library-services/advice-best-practice/legislation

https://www.sl.nsw.gov.au/public-library-services/advice-best-practice/legislation

https://www.sl.nsw.gov.au/sites/default/files/march2018plcc_minutes.pdf

http://www.sl.nsw.gov.au/public-library-services/strategic-network-committee-minutes

November 2018

Assessment and compliance visits The State Library works with all councils to promote, provide and maintain public libraries for the people of NSW. State Library staff visit over 100 councils and public libraries per year providing advice and assistance on services, funding and Library Act compliance. This program of visits followed by detailed reports is a valuable source of ongoing information on public library needs, and assists the State Library to meet its obligations to make careful inquiry into the operations of local libraries, and to advise local authorities and the Minister on public library matters. We are continuing the assessment and compliance visits and are seeking feedback on how councils are using the reports which we provide. Contact: Ellen Forsyth

Statewide Projects Early Literacy Framework The Early Literacy Framework for NSW public libraries was launched at a seminar at the State Library on 5 November. The seminar featured presentations by the researchers, who are early childhood experts and have become very familiar with the public library context through the research project. The Framework and other project publications are on the State Library website at: https://www.sl.nsw.gov.au/public-library-services/early-literacy-project Contact: Mylee Joseph Multicultural library services in NSW public libraries research project The State Library appointed DiverseWerks to undertake a formal review of service delivery to establish how well public libraries in NSW meet the needs of their local non-English speaking background communities. These services were compared against Living Learning Libraries: standards and guidelines for NSW public libraries and the Multicultural benchmarks as updated in 2016 by the NSW Multicultural Working Group. The research methodology included a contextual review, online statewide survey of public library stakeholders, data identification and analysis and consultations with public library staff, existing CALD library users and future CALD library users. The research report is now available on the State Library website at: http://www.sl.nsw.gov.au/public-library-services/research-multicultural-services-nsw-public-libraries Benchmarking NSW public library services to multicultural communities, updated 2018 The updated benchmarks draw on the findings and recommendations of the Multicultural Library Services in NSW Public Libraries research project. These are available on the State Library website at: http://www.sl.nsw.gov.au/sites/default/files/multicultural-library-service-benchmarks.pdf Contact: Oriana Acevedo Adult fiction stock quality health check Sixty-three libraries from all over NSW provided their results. No library held all 500 titles. One library held 499 titles, just missing one of the horror titles, see table 1 on the

https://www.sl.nsw.gov.au/public-library-services/early-literacy-project

http://www.sl.nsw.gov.au/public-library-services/research-multicultural-services-nsw-public-libraries

http://www.sl.nsw.gov.au/public-library-services/research-multicultural-services-nsw-public-libraries

http://www.sl.nsw.gov.au/sites/default/files/multicultural-library-service-benchmarks.pdf

November 2018

spreadsheet (link below) for a detailed coverage. The data is available for each council, but has been coded for anonymity. The Australian Classification of Local Governments was used, except for regional libraries (libraries which are formed because of a formal agreement between two or more councils) which were given a separate classification of RL. The strongest genres in public libraries were action/adventure, Australian, classics, crime and sagas. The genres more libraries struggled with were LGBQTI, gentle reads, horror, Indigenous, science fiction, short stories and Westerns. The State Library recommends libraries look at how they scored and in genres where scores were lower, do a more detailed exploration looking at holdings and gaps. Over the next 12 months the State Library is planning a number of talks by genre specialists to assist libraries with their understanding of genre. These talks will be delivered via videoconference and recorded to enable as many public library staff as possible to view them. The first of these talks was a videoconference on 14 June 2018 with Dr Anita Heiss on collecting adult fiction by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people and the second was by Greg Chapman who provided excellent information about collecting adult fiction Horror titles. The State Library has contacted the libraries with the highest total percentage of holdings to discuss their acquisition methods. From early discussions, the libraries with the highest percentage of holdings mostly use a combination of standing orders (reviewed each year) and direct selection. You can read more about the results and look at the spreadsheets which are linked at the end of the blog post: 2017 adult fiction stock quality health check for NSW public libraries at www.sl.nsw.gov.au/blogs/2017-adult-fiction-stock-quality-health-check-nsw-public-libraries Contact: Ellen Forsyth People Places Revision Since its publication in 2000, People Places: a guide for Public Library Buildings in New South Wales has assisted many New South Wales local authorities to plan and build new or enhanced public library buildings. In 2005 the guidelines were reviewed, evaluated and revised, with a substantially revised third edition published in 2012. Due to changes in public library trends and usage an update is required, specifically to the planning tools. The project will:

1. Identify and analyse key developments and library trends 2. Revise and update guidelines and benchmarks 3. Incorporate tools and spreadsheets which facilitate the surveying of existing library

spaces 4. Incorporate tools and spreadsheets which facilitate the planning for the functional

requirements of a library space in new and existing buildings 5. Incorporate tools and spreadsheets to facilitate post occupancy evaluation

Elton Consulting were appointed to assist with the project, and the project is now in progress. Draft tools were presented to the Strategic Network Committee in October and should be finalised by the end of the year. Updated tools and information will be available on the State Library website once the project is complete. Contact: Kate O’Grady

http://www.sl.nsw.gov.au/blogs/2017-adult-fiction-stock-quality-health-check-nsw-public-libraries

November 2018

Professional development Collect, Connect, Community This interactive hands-on program introduces public library staff to the State Library. The Library’s Strategic Plan Collect Connect Community provides the thematic framework for exploring the State Library's website, collections and services. Further sessions will be scheduled next year. More information is available at: /www.sl.nsw.gov.au/public-library-services/collect-connect-community-introduction-state-library Further information about the professional development programs are available at: www.sl.nsw.gov.au/public-library-services/professional-development-and-events Check the Professional development calendar for upcoming events Contact: Catherine Bryant Find Legal Answers and Drug Info training LIAC and Drug Info staff can deliver LIAC and Drug Info training in your library. Information about the courses can be found at: www.sl.nsw.gov.au/public-library-services/services-find-legal-answers/legal-information-workshop www.sl.nsw.gov.au/public-library-services/services-drug-info-public-libraries/drug-and-alcohol-information-workshop Contact: Catherine Bryant or Andrea Curr

http://www.sl.nsw.gov.au/public-library-services/collect-connect-community-introduction-state-library

http://www.sl.nsw.gov.au/public-library-services/collect-connect-community-introduction-state-library

http://www.sl.nsw.gov.au/public-library-services/professional-development-and-events

http://www.calendarwiz.com/calendars/calendar.php?crd=nswpubliclibrarieslearn&op=cal&month=4&year=2018

http://www.sl.nsw.gov.au/public-library-services/services-find-legal-answers/legal-information-workshop

http://www.sl.nsw.gov.au/public-library-services/services-find-legal-answers/legal-information-workshop

http://www.sl.nsw.gov.au/public-library-services/services-drug-info-public-libraries/drug-and-alcohol-information-workshop

http://www.sl.nsw.gov.au/public-library-services/services-drug-info-public-libraries/drug-and-alcohol-information-workshop

November 2018

Public Library News and enewsletters New enewsletter – Public Library Services eNews The new quarterly Public Library Services eNews provides a snapshot of the work of Public Library Services including Find Legal Answers, Drug Info, Multicultural Services and NSW.net. You can view the first issue and subscribe at: www.sl.nsw.gov.au/public-library-services/services/public-library-services-enews In the Libraries eNews The In the Libraries enewsletter features short news stories, photos and links. It aims to provide a snapshot of what is happening in NSW public libraries. The Spring 2018 issue will be emailed to subscribers in November. To subscribe, view issues and submit an article visit: www.sl.nsw.gov.au/public-library-services/services/libraries-enewsletter Contact: Catherine Bryant

Specialist Services LIAC - Piano Forte: legal issues for older people The Piano Forte program is a community education program that deals with the issue of elder financial abuse. The program was first introduced in NSW public libraries for Law Week 2018. These Law Week events were very successful, and the program is now available for libraries to host at any time of the year. It is suitable for older people and their carers, friends and other family members as well as local community, health and aged care service workers. Further information including a detailed program guide is available at: www.sl.nsw.gov.au/public-library-services/services-find-legal-answers/piano-forte-legal-issues-older-people Drug Info hub Drug Info has developed the Drug Info Hub, a new interactive travelling display program for drug and alcohol information. The hub uses several different ways to provide people with up to date and accessible information about drugs and alcohol and identify support networks and agencies within the local community. It consists of two display stands, one with an iPad providing interactive content and the other featuring a removable shelf for displaying information resources and promotional collateral. The display stands form part of a program of activities delivered by the host library. This program is based on the existing Know Your Standards and Know Your Drug Facts programs for public libraries and is supported by a tool kit document containing a suggested program of activities and display themes. Host libraries are provided with display resources and promotional material for the display period. Resources are also included for pop-up events and satellite displays in branch libraries. The hub program was successfully piloted in two libraries, City of Canada Bay Library and Macquarie Regional Library. This year Drug Info is rolling out the Drug & Alcohol Info Hub program across the state on a rotational basis.

https://www.sl.nsw.gov.au/public-library-services/services/public-library-services-enews

http://www.sl.nsw.gov.au/public-library-services/services/libraries-enewsletter

http://www.sl.nsw.gov.au/public-library-services/services-find-legal-answers/piano-forte-legal-issues-older-people

http://www.sl.nsw.gov.au/public-library-services/services-find-legal-answers/piano-forte-legal-issues-older-people

November 2018

More information about the program can be found at: www.sl.nsw.gov.au/public-library-services/services-drug-info-public-libraries/drug-alcohol-info-hub Contact: Catherine Bryant and Andrea Curr Tech Savvy Seniors The successful Tech Savvy Seniors program has received funding for a 5th year from our partners Telstra and the NSW Department of Family and Community Services. The State Library administers grants under the program to public libraries to enable them to run technology classes for older people. To date more than 20,000 seniors have been trained in over 100 libraries across NSW. FACS and Telstra have committed $250,000 for 2018/19, an increase of $50,000 over 2017/18. The focus for this year will be on expanding the CALD program (delivered in 9 community languages), introducing some additional training modules, as well as focussing the English program on libraries that have not provided Tech Savvy Seniors before, and who are in areas with low rates of digital inclusion, as determined by the Australian Digital Inclusion Index Report.

• 3883 seniors have been trained by the third quarter of 2017/18, already exceeding the annual target of 3250 seniors trained

• Training has been delivered in 88 library branches Be Connected – a new digital literacy initiative for older Australians Be Connected is a federal government initiative supporting digital literacy for people aged 50 and over. Funding grants of $1500 called ‘activation grants’ are available to local organisations, including libraries, who provide digital literacy training to older people, as well as a range of online learning resources. More information available at https://www.beconnectednetwork.org.au/ Contact: Oriana Acevedo NSW.net Statewide Licensed Databases: The NSW.net Content Working Group met in May and a decision was made to continue with the current Statewide eResources from EBSCO. The suite is: • Academic Search Premier • Australia/NZ Reference Centre • Australia/NZ Points of View • Consumer Health Complete • GreenFile • MasterFile Complete • Novelist Plus • Literary Reference Center Plus • Science Reference Center • eBook Public Library Collection • History Reference Center • Hobbies and Craft Reference Center As part of this package, a basic version of EBSCO Discovery Service (EDS) is available at no cost to interested libraries. The basic version of EDS provides a single search across

http://www.sl.nsw.gov.au/public-library-services/services-drug-info-public-libraries/drug-alcohol-info-hub

http://www.sl.nsw.gov.au/public-library-services/services-drug-info-public-libraries/drug-alcohol-info-hub

https://www.beconnectednetwork.org.au/

November 2018

EBSCO resources. NSW.net has been working with EBSCO to roll out the new base version of EDS. For information on EDS and the next tier of the service please refer to the consortia opt in offers on the https://www.nswnet.net/blog/2017-2018-nswnet-consortia-opt-offers. NSW.net will be working with EBSCO to explore regional training opportunities for public library staff. Links (URLs) to all the above databases can be found on the NSW.net website at http://www.nswnet.net/generic/urls-nswnet-state-wide-licensed-eresources Consortia Opt-in Offers: Consortia opt-in offer negotiations with participating vendors are complete. The 2018/19 offers are listed on the NSW.net website: https://www.nswnet.net/blog/2018-2019-nswnet-consortia-opt-offers SAI Global has informed NSW.net that they will postpone the negotiation of a 2018-2019 consortia opt-in offer whilst they undertake a national review of their library subscription offerings. Updates will be communicated via the Library Managers email list. Product trials: Haynes All Access – a database of over 350 online manuals covering car and motorcycle maintenance and repair – has been added to the list of consortia opt-in databases following a successful statewide trial. For information on the consortia opt-in databases, email Kathleen Alexander [email protected]. NSW.net Content Working Group (CWG) The Content Working Group comprises six representatives from public libraries from country and metropolitan NSW as well as representatives from the State Library. The CWG identifies new content that may be of interest to the NSW Public Library Network and gauges interest from the network for potential product trials. https://www.nswnet.net/e-resources/nswnet-content-working-group Public Library representation to the NSW.net CWG is for a two-year duration. To retain expertise, three public library representatives are rotated every two years. We would like to thank retiring representatives:

• Jacquie West and Mary Ternes from Blacktown, • Jeff Stonehouse and Michael O’Donnell from Port Macquarie • Sue Killham from Narrandera

for their personal contributions to the NSW.net Content Working Group and for the commitment made by their libraries and councils. We simply could not do this work without the much-appreciated input from public library staff. Continuing with the group are:

• Samson Leung, City of Canada Bay • John Taggart, Randwick City Library • Kieran O’Donoghue, Lake Macquarie City Library

The NSW PLA have nominated three new members to represent a country mid-size library service, a country small-size library service and a metro large library service. These members will be announced soon.

https://www.nswnet.net/blog/2017-2018-nswnet-consortia-opt-offers


http://www.nswnet.net/generic/urls-nswnet-state-wide-licensed-eresources



https://clicktime.symantec.com/a/1/XlRJUjH9FIshLaXYvTLT0pufNjYRGOQIcKKfUiSSTUY=?d=F7CZiTo-ixmS95Bq15UA9JH1DcPsp6-pCHEmcT6cAOBdXqYPOVH4aJF7mi5DXPZJxinIpldD-EA84_YVDIf_GbJabksYQ5vyoLRJmblFt7si10Y0kOU7Rqky6aMw4eiTKR0gW2tYigG6W1lZz5fvSWIluPVABZrPRS4qIFZK6Obr8If2SCt-5nl3Xc_I2xU3wWt-drVlGmYsGX4iFCGdk1hHMD2fL-bDcjLlvxxeh1EOmtZzIK0F1t-lw2svZRyVVoQaTRfArtQMzTkIfgmAxz7fY40wsP4m6-pP6iOYPQe7BY5t-VC8GaKScgmht7HKFYWM1foD89sYGR5vQmXkjpsd23_KqTiYa9k1xP8n1Pqv9WNq8zA-o1O-V2UygJxsHfIWmWU5R8reTQEATmXDAEGzan6C-T2SV2ONpDCJbcRJZqNBi2WlKHO51eleVpCNMxU%3D&u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.nswnet.net%2Fe-resources%2Fnswnet-content-working-group

November 2018

Connectivity Pacnet migration: NSW.net continues to assist NSW public libraries to migrate services from the soon to be decommissioned Pacnet network to subsidised ADSL2/NBN services offered by TPG, Telstra and Optus. Please be aware that Pacnet decommission notifications are being forwarded to some councils/libraries by Telstra. Telstra is providing councils with 3 months from notification to migrate to an alternative ISP. If you have received similar correspondence, please contact Ross Balharrie immediately to discuss NSW.net subsidised connectivity options, [email protected], 02 9273 1498. NBN upgrades: NSW.net has undertaken a review of NBN availability across the state. Sophie Garrett, NSW.net Project Coordinator will be contacting library services which are still utilising ADSL2 connections to discuss NBN subsidised upgrade offers. For more information please contact Sophie Garrett, [email protected], 02-9273 1524 The American Library Association (ALA) eBook publications database is available via the NSW.net website for public library staff. This resource contains over 350 ebooks covering a range of library subjects from reader’s advisory services, reference, library systems, management and much more. The ALA content can be accessed via: http://portal.igpublish.com/iglibrary/ The log is nsw and the password is au@nsw Indyreads™ The indyreads™ platform is scheduled for a staged statewide rollout commencing in November 2018 and it is anticipated that the platform configuration for all NSW public libraries will be completed by February 2019. NSW.net has re-licensed the content from our Australian pilot publishing partners for the statewide consortia collection. The opening statewide collection will contain approximately 5500 eBook titles sourced from Australian independent publishers, a selection of titles in languages other than English as well as international content including reference, modern literary, classic fiction and non-fiction titles. Further communications regarding the rollout will be forthcoming in November 2018. For further information contact [email protected], 02 9273 1498.



http://portal.igpublish.com/iglibrary/


November 2018

State Library contacts Cameron Morley, Manager, Public Library Services Tel: 9273 1483 Email: [email protected] Oriana Acevedo, Consultant (Cooperative and Multicultural Services) Tel: 9273 1544 Email: [email protected] Kathleen Alexander, NSW.net Services Tel: 9273 1470 Email: [email protected] Ross Balharrie, Acting Lead NSW.net Services Tel: 9273 1498 Email: [email protected] Catherine Bryant, LIAC Tel: 9273 1512 Email: [email protected] Andrea Curr, Drug Info Tel: 9273 1555 Email: [email protected] Ellen Forsyth, Consultant (Compliance and Assessment) Tel: 9273 1525 Email: [email protected] Mylee Joseph, Consultant (Policies, Guidelines and Data) Tel: 9273 1521 Email: [email protected] Kate O’Grady, Consultant (Public Library Funding) Tel: 9273 1699 Email: [email protected] Philippa Scarf, Consultant (Specialist Information Services) Tel: 9273 1571 Email: [email protected]


Public Libraries Consultative Committee Update

Background The Public Libraries Consultative Committee (PLCC) is a sub-committee of the Library Council of NSW and meets 4 times per year. Its terms of reference are as follows:

Provide policy advice to the Library Council of NSW concerning the provision of public library services in NSW

Offer a consultative framework for the Library Council, the State Library and key stakeholders in local government in relation to public library services

Advise the Library Council on the funding arrangements for allocating State Government funding to public libraries

Advise the Library Council on the development of guidelines for grant programs and other measures to enhance the provision of public library services across NSW

Advise the Library Council of NSW on any other matters relating to the provision of public library services across NSW

Members are responsible for providing views to the Committee to assist it to carry out the functions as set out above. Membership The members of the Committee are:

3 members of Library Council, one of whom will be appointed as Chair of the Committee

6 members nominated by the NSW Public Libraries Association

2 members nominated by Local Government NSW

1 member nominated by the NSW Office of Local Government, Department of Premier and Cabinet

NSW State Librarian and Chief Executive ex officio

Director, Public Libraries and Engagement ex officio

Members are appointed by the Library Council of NSW for two year terms.

Current Issues At the PLCC meeting held on Monday 12 March 2018 at the State Library of NSW, the Committee:

Was briefed on the planned remaking of the Library Regulation 2010 (which was postponed in 2015, 2016 and 2017 due to the Fit For the Future local government reform program), with a recommendation that the Regulation be remade without change.

Was briefed on the publication of the literature review of research with implications for early literacy programs in NSW libraries (part of Stage One of the Early Literacy Research Project).

Was briefed on the findings of the Multicultural Library Services in NSW Public Libraries research project.

Was briefed on the review of People Places: a guide for public library buildings in NSW.

Was briefed on the implementation of the Indigenous Spaces in Library Places: building a vibrant Public Library network inclusive of Indigenous peoples and communities strategy.

At the PLCC meeting held on Monday 23 July 2018 at the State Library of NSW, the Committee:

Considered the options for allocation of funding available for payment direct to NSW councils, which was reduced by $1.275m in the 2018-19 NSW state budget, noting that the population increase between 2017/18 and 2018/19 is 134,377 thereby requiring an additional $248,597 to meet the $1.85 per head legislated payment.

Was briefed on progress of the Early Literacy Framework (ELF). The Macquarie University Institute of Early Childhood was engaged to assist with the development of the framework. The ELF has three main elements: o Library community analysis o Early language and literacy domains: objectives for children’s learning and strategies for

library staff as educators o Planning effective early literacy session The ELF will be launched at SLNSW on Monday 5 November 2018.

Was updated on the Sydney Symphony Orchestra Live Stream Event on International Make Music Day on 21 June 2018. 4 libraries across the state hosted 410 attendees at the event.

Was updated on the rollout of the 2017/18 State Library professional development programs. Further details on the above matters will be communicated to libraries in due course. Meeting minutes will be on the State Library website following endorsement by the Library Council. The next meeting will be held on Tuesday 6 December 2018.

The last several months have been very busy to say the least and today’s update will focus on what is happening in the library funding space. Initial Campaign After three solid months of workshops and teleconferences to establish the basis for the library campaign, understand the key stakeholders, agree on a name, create a logo, establish a campaign strategy, and develop campaign collateral, Renew Our Libraries (ROL) was launched at Waverley Library on Wednesday 1 August 2018 by myself and LGNSW President Cr Linda Scott. It should be noted that during the development phase of ROL, the NSW state budget inexplicably delivered a cut to funding to support the operation of NSW libraries – a reduction that delivered an average 5.18% reduction in library funding to every council in NSW – just 9 months before a state election. It was agreed that ROL would be a social media based campaign in terms of community engagement, and would rely heavily on the buy-in of NSW councils to establish its political imprimatur. ROL got off to a strong start after the launch, showing impressive statistics on Facebook and Twitter as well as high sign-up numbers to the campaign. Government Reaction Much to the surprise of everyone, especially the ROL Committee, just 3 weeks and 2 days after the ROL was launched the state government announced a new funding package for NSW libraries on Friday 24 August 2018. The announcement covers the quadrennial period 2019-20 to 2022-23 and provides an additional $60m over those 4 years. Whilst the increased funding announced in August is certainly welcome, ROL is far from over. Next Phase While the campaign was ongoing we were also working on the next phase of our campaign. This was released approximately a month ago and has been sent to all library managers and Councillors. The next phase of the campaign seeks to achieve the following: Double the Funding Index the Funding Protect the Funding

Double the Funding – by providing an additional $94 million in funding to NSW public libraries over four years

Index the Funding - Index state funding commitments to ensure they increase with changes in the Consumer Price Index

Protect the Funding - by amending the legislation to lock in the funding arrangements for the future.

Presidents Update Thursday 15 November 2018

LGNSW Conference Motion At the conference on Monday 22nd October that myself and Romola Hollywood attended we managed to move an amendment and put up a motion initiated by Blue Mountains council which received unanimous support. It is copied below.

In addition to that the renew Our Libraries campaign was mentioned at length in a number of speeches and is being held up as a success to date in putting pressure on both government and opposition to acknowledge an issue and allocate funds to it. Labor Announcement at Conference On the 2nd day of the conference the Opposition Local Government spokesperson Peter Primrose announced that the lobar commitment was increasing by $10.5m and that it would also be investigating indexation. What a win!!!! Summary I suppose in summary this has proven that a campaign focussed as a grass roots campaign that is apolitical and consistent in its message can achieve results. Until we actually receive the funds we are not there and we also need to keep pressure on all parties to achieve the $94m in doubling the funding. There is still a lot of time between now and March 2019 and the campaign will be ramping up regularly in the actions we are taking. We have only just begun! Thank you all for all of your support and I look forward to either seeing you at SWITCH or elsewhere and continuing to work through this funding campaign until we achieve eventual success.

$20,000eMagazines

purchased from RB Digital

$28,000 eBook plan

purchased from Bolinda

South West Zone Digital Library 2017-2018

$42,000 eAudio plan

purchased from Bolinda

54,561 eBookloans

5,295loans average per month

63,544 eAudioloans

4,547 loans average per month

18,578 eMagazine downloads

1,548 loansaverage per month

eBook turnover eAudio turnover eMagazine turnover

694 total

eMagazine unique users

6,826 total eBook and eAudio unique users

7,539eBook titles

3,338eAudio titles

452eMagazine titles

7.2 19.0 41.0

SW Zone Training and Events

Readers’ Advisory Training

Duncan Smith, founder and creator of NoveList, the readers’ advisory database we

access through NSWNet, came to Wagga in March this year to train South-West

Zone staff in how to search and get the most out of NoveList. There were 14

attendees from across the zone, and the training was very helpful for connecting

readers with the books that will make a difference in their lives.

STEAM training

On the 17th of September, Jess and Alex from Sydney’s Coder Academy, came to

Wagga to deliver a day of interactive Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and

Maths program training. 17 participants from across the zone learnt to make paper

circuits, use littleBits to invent and problem solve, code robots, and experiment with

Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality. It was a great day of hands on experiences,

networking and considering how we can incorporate STEAM into our library

programming.

If there is any training that you would like to attend, please let me know and I’ll try

to organise it.

Council

Pop for

2017/2018

Pop for

2018/2019

Pop

Change

2017/2018

Subsidy $1.85

per capita

2018/2019

Subsidy $1.85

per capita

Increase

/Decrease

$

Increase

/Decrease %

Final

2017/2018

Subsidy

Adjustment

Initial

2018/2019

Subsidy

Adjustment

Pop Less

than 20000

Subsidy

Final

2018/2019

Subsidy

Adjustment

Subsidy

Amount

Change in $

Total

2017/2018

Payments

Total

2018/2019

Payments

Total

Payments

Amount

Change in $

Total

Payments

Amount

Change in %

Albury City 52,411 52,886 475 $96,960 $97,839 $879 0.91% $49,740 $33,978 $33,978 -$15,762 $146,700 $131,817 -$14,883 -10.15%

Armidale Regional 30,045 30,552 507 $55,583 $56,521 $938 1.69% $59,904 $45,035 $45,035 -$14,869 $115,487 $101,556 -$13,931 -12.06%

Ballina 42,556 43,064 508 $78,729 $79,668 $939 1.19% $45,500 $28,577 $28,577 -$16,923 $124,229 $108,245 -$15,984 -12.87%

Balranald 2,385 2,318 -67 $4,412 $4,288 -$124 -2.80% $20,461 $12,167 4,820$ $16,987 -$3,474 $24,873 $21,276 -$3,597 -14.46%

Bathurst Regional 43,080 42,900 -180 $79,698 $79,365 -$333 -0.42% $53,893 $38,993 $38,993 -$14,900 $133,591 $118,358 -$15,233 -11.40%

Bayside 160,944 170,279 9335 $297,746 $315,016 $17,270 5.80% $113,701 $88,040 $88,040 -$25,661 $411,447 $403,056 -$8,391 -2.04%

Bega Valley 33,662 34,095 433 $62,275 $63,076 $801 1.29% $47,686 $34,193 $34,193 -$13,493 $109,961 $97,268 -$12,693 -11.54%

Bellingen Shire 13,066 12,888 -178 $24,172 $23,843 -$329 -1.36% $31,823 $20,450 4,820$ $25,270 -$6,553 $55,995 $49,113 -$6,882 -12.29%

Berrigan 8,420 8,617 197 $15,577 $15,941 $364 2.34% $24,282 $18,482 4,820$ $23,302 -$980 $39,859 $39,243 -$616 -1.55%

Blacktown City 348,138 356,859 8721 $644,055 $660,189 $16,134 2.51% $215,803 $174,784 $174,784 -$41,019 $859,858 $834,973 -$24,885 -2.89%

Bland 5,917 5,990 73 $10,946 $11,082 $136 1.24% $25,513 $16,379 4,820$ $21,199 -$4,314 $36,459 $32,281 -$4,178 -11.46%

Blayney 7,457 7,415 -42 $13,795 $13,718 -$77 -0.56% $24,762 $15,657 4,820$ $20,477 -$4,285 $38,557 $34,194 -$4,363 -11.31%

Blue Mountains City 80,072 78,800 -1272 $148,133 $145,780 -$2,353 -1.59% $58,322 $47,236 $47,236 -$11,086 $206,455 $193,016 -$13,439 -6.51%

Bogan 3,007 2,664 -343 $5,563 $4,928 -$635 -11.41% $21,694 $13,604 4,820$ $18,424 -$3,270 $27,257 $23,353 -$3,904 -14.32%

Bourke 2,814 2,720 -94 $5,206 $5,032 -$174 -3.34% $21,151 $12,669 4,820$ $17,489 -$3,662 $26,357 $22,521 -$3,836 -14.55%

Brewarrina 1,875 1,687 -188 $3,469 $3,121 -$348 -10.03% $21,023 $13,079 4,820$ $17,899 -$3,124 $24,492 $21,020 -$3,472 -14.18%

Broken Hill City 18,557 17,780 -777 $34,330 $32,893 -$1,437 -4.19% $38,700 $24,029 4,820$ $28,849 -$9,851 $73,030 $61,742 -$11,288 -15.46%

Burwood 36,505 39,172 2667 $67,534 $72,468 $4,934 7.31% $33,146 $26,846 $26,846 -$6,300 $100,680 $99,314 -$1,366 -1.36%

Byron 33,278 33,339 61 $61,564 $61,677 $113 0.18% $40,617 $25,634 $25,634 -$14,983 $102,181 $87,311 -$14,870 -14.55%

Cabonne 13,999 13,647 -352 $25,898 $25,247 -$651 -2.51% $30,047 $19,352 4,820$ $24,172 -$5,875 $55,945 $49,419 -$6,526 -11.66%

Camden 77,504 87,250 9746 $143,382 $161,413 $18,031 12.58% $57,498 $46,569 $46,569 -$10,929 $200,880 $207,981 $7,101 3.54%

Campbelltown City 161,998 164,273 2275 $299,696 $303,905 $4,209 1.40% $97,163 $78,695 $78,695 -$18,468 $396,859 $382,600 -$14,259 -3.59%

Canada Bay 90,427 93,858 3431 $167,290 $173,637 $6,347 3.79% $77,992 $63,168 $63,168 -$14,824 $245,282 $236,805 -$8,477 -3.46%

Canterbury-Bankstown 359,671 367,519 7848 $665,391 $679,910 $14,519 2.18% $221,851 $179,682 $179,682 -$42,169 $887,242 $859,593 -$27,649 -3.12%

Carrathool 2,760 2,805 45 $5,106 $5,189 $83 1.63% $20,332 $12,593 4,820$ $17,413 -$2,919 $25,438 $22,602 -$2,836 -11.15%

Central Coast 334,857 337,765 2908 $619,485 $624,865 $5,380 0.87% $211,160 $171,024 $171,024 -$40,136 $830,645 $795,889 -$34,756 -4.18%

Cessnock City 56,532 57,527 995 $104,584 $106,425 $1,841 1.76% $56,524 $37,337 $37,337 -$19,187 $161,108 $143,762 -$17,346 -10.77%

City of Parramatta 235,981 243,464 7483 $436,565 $450,408 $13,843 3.17% $138,654 $112,299 $112,299 -$26,355 $575,219 $562,708 -$12,511 -2.18%

Clarence Valley 51,211 51,298 87 $94,740 $94,901 $161 0.17% $118,506 $84,243 $84,243 -$34,263 $213,246 $179,144 -$34,102 -15.99%

Cobar 4,989 4,713 -276 $9,230 $8,719 -$511 -5.54% $27,701 $17,705 4,820$ $22,525 -$5,176 $36,931 $31,244 -$5,687 -15.40%

Coffs Harbour City 73,892 75,484 1592 $136,700 $139,645 $2,945 2.15% $62,971 $41,299 $41,299 -$21,672 $199,671 $180,944 -$18,727 -9.38%

Coolamon 4,419 4,400 -19 $8,175 $8,140 -$35 -0.43% $22,399 $14,065 4,820$ $18,885 -$3,514 $30,574 $27,025 -$3,549 -11.61%

Coonamble 4,188 4,056 -132 $7,748 $7,504 -$244 -3.15% $22,649 $14,076 4,820$ $18,896 -$3,753 $30,397 $26,399 -$3,998 -13.15%

Cootamundra-Gundagai 11,392 11,238 -154 $21,075 $20,790 -$285 -1.35% $42,560 $29,297 4,820$ $34,117 -$8,443 $63,635 $54,907 -$8,728 -13.72%

Cowra 12,527 12,697 170 $23,175 $23,489 $314 1.36% $27,988 $17,231 4,820$ $22,051 -$5,937 $51,163 $45,541 -$5,622 -10.99%

Cumberland 222,758 231,604 8846 $412,102 $428,467 $16,365 3.97% $152,783 $123,743 $123,743 -$29,040 $564,885 $552,210 -$12,675 -2.24%

Dubbo Regional 51,449 52,084 635 $95,181 $96,355 $1,174 1.23% $68,368 $45,171 $45,171 -$23,197 $163,549 $141,526 -$22,023 -13.47%

Dungog 9,323 9,198 -125 $17,248 $17,016 -$232 -1.34% $26,123 $16,574 4,820$ $21,394 -$4,729 $43,371 $38,411 -$4,960 -11.44%

Edward River 8,876 8,907 31 $16,421 $16,478 $57 0.35% $49,826 $35,610 4,820$ $40,430 -$9,396 $66,247 $56,908 -$9,339 -14.10%

Eurobodalla 38,119 38,117 -2 $70,520 $70,516 -$4 -0.01% $49,889 $35,124 $35,124 -$14,765 $120,409 $105,640 -$14,769 -12.27%

Fairfield City 207,022 209,107 2085 $382,991 $386,848 $3,857 1.01% $130,282 $105,518 $105,518 -$24,764 $513,273 $492,366 -$20,907 -4.07%

Federation 12,569 12,392 -177 $23,253 $22,925 -$328 -1.41% $45,208 $31,338 4,820$ $36,158 -$9,050 $68,461 $59,083 -$9,378 -13.70%

Forbes 9,768 9,844 76 $18,071 $18,211 $140 0.78% $26,627 $16,653 4,820$ $21,473 -$5,154 $44,698 $39,684 -$5,014 -11.22%

Georges River 149,489 156,440 6951 $276,555 $289,414 $12,859 4.65% $100,540 $81,430 $81,430 -$19,110 $377,095 $370,844 -$6,251 -1.66%

Gilgandra 4,349 4,256 -93 $8,046 $7,874 -$172 -2.14% $20,747 $12,585 4,820$ $17,405 -$3,342 $28,793 $25,279 -$3,514 -12.20%

Glen Innes Severn 9,001 8,924 -77 $16,652 $16,509 -$143 -0.86% $37,128 $28,664 4,820$ $33,484 -$3,644 $53,780 $49,993 -$3,787 -7.04%

Goulburn Mulwaree 29,918 30,438 520 $55,348 $56,310 $962 1.74% $48,429 $31,652 $31,652 -$16,777 $103,777 $87,962 -$15,815 -15.24%

Greater Hume 10,406 10,585 179 $19,251 $19,582 $331 1.72% $46,656 $33,055 4,820$ $37,875 -$8,781 $65,907 $57,458 -$8,449 -12.82%

Griffith City 26,125 26,648 523 $48,331 $49,299 $968 2.00% $41,502 $26,647 $26,647 -$14,855 $89,833 $75,946 -$13,887 -15.46%

Gunnedah 12,989 12,628 -361 $24,030 $23,362 -$668 -2.78% $25,252 $18,633 4,820$ $23,453 -$1,799 $49,282 $46,815 -$2,467 -5.01%

Gwydir 5,030 5,316 286 $9,306 $9,835 $529 5.68% $37,303 $25,959 4,820$ $30,779 -$6,524 $46,609 $40,613 -$5,996 -12.86%

Hawkesbury City 66,782 66,402 -380 $123,547 $122,844 -$703 -0.57% $53,225 $43,108 $43,108 -$10,117 $176,772 $165,952 -$10,820 -6.12%

Council

Pop for

2017/2018

Pop for

2018/2019

Pop

Change

2017/2018

Subsidy $1.85

per capita

2018/2019

Subsidy $1.85

per capita

Increase

/Decrease

$

Increase

/Decrease %

Final

2017/2018

Subsidy

Adjustment

Initial

2018/2019

Subsidy

Adjustment

Pop Less

than 20000

Subsidy

Final

2018/2019

Subsidy

Adjustment

Subsidy

Amount

Change in $

Total

2017/2018

Payments

Total

2018/2019

Payments

Total

Payments

Amount

Change in $

Total

Payments

Amount

Change in %

Hay 2,956 2,969 13 $5,469 $5,493 $24 0.43% $20,919 $12,948 4,820$ $17,768 -$3,151 $26,388 $23,261 -$3,127 -11.85%

Hills, The 164,802 167,296 2494 $304,884 $309,498 $4,614 1.51% $97,062 $78,613 $78,613 -$18,449 $401,946 $388,110 -$13,836 -3.44%

Hilltops 18,993 18,840 -153 $35,137 $34,854 -$283 -0.81% $60,633 $46,443 4,820$ $51,263 -$9,370 $95,770 $86,117 -$9,653 -10.08%

Hornsby 151,237 149,242 -1995 $279,788 $276,098 -$3,690 -1.32% $90,443 $73,252 $73,252 -$17,191 $370,231 $349,350 -$20,881 -5.64%

Hunter's Hill 14,843 14,716 -127 $27,460 $27,225 -$235 -0.86% $20,497 $16,601 $16,601 -$3,896 $47,957 $43,826 -$4,131 -8.61%

Inner West 189,576 195,113 5537 $350,716 $360,959 $10,243 2.92% $132,338 $107,184 $107,184 -$25,154 $483,054 $468,143 -$14,911 -3.09%

Inverell 17,042 16,780 -262 $31,528 $31,043 -$485 -1.54% $29,758 $21,432 4,820$ $26,252 -$3,506 $61,286 $57,295 -$3,991 -6.51%

Junee 6,329 6,555 226 $11,709 $12,127 $418 3.57% $23,460 $14,572 4,820$ $19,392 -$4,068 $35,169 $31,519 -$3,650 -10.38%

Kempsey 29,842 29,536 -306 $55,208 $54,642 -$566 -1.03% $42,197 $25,277 $25,277 -$16,920 $97,405 $79,919 -$17,486 -17.95%

Kiama 21,671 22,378 707 $40,091 $41,399 $1,308 3.26% $26,247 $19,794 $19,794 -$6,453 $66,338 $61,193 -$5,145 -7.76%

Ku-Ring-Gai 124,179 124,898 719 $229,731 $231,061 $1,330 0.58% $76,883 $62,269 $62,269 -$14,614 $306,614 $293,331 -$13,283 -4.33%

Kyogle 9,542 8,927 -615 $17,653 $16,515 -$1,138 -6.45% $26,249 $16,168 4,820$ $20,988 -$5,261 $43,902 $37,503 -$6,399 -14.58%

Lachlan 6,749 6,213 -536 $12,486 $11,494 -$992 -7.94% $28,659 $18,192 4,820$ $23,012 -$5,647 $41,145 $34,506 -$6,639 -16.14%

Lake Macquarie City 205,748 203,823 -1925 $380,634 $377,073 -$3,561 -0.94% $125,435 $101,593 $101,593 -$23,842 $506,069 $478,665 -$27,404 -5.42%

Lane Cove 36,996 38,782 1786 $68,443 $71,747 $3,304 4.83% $29,557 $23,939 $23,939 -$5,618 $98,000 $95,686 -$2,314 -2.36%

Leeton 11,712 11,420 -292 $21,667 $21,127 -$540 -2.49% $26,198 $19,580 4,820$ $24,400 -$1,798 $47,865 $45,527 -$2,338 -4.88%

Lismore City 44,993 43,816 -1177 $83,237 $81,060 -$2,177 -2.62% $45,367 $27,151 $27,151 -$18,216 $128,604 $108,211 -$20,393 -15.86%

Lithgow City 21,474 21,596 122 $39,727 $39,953 $226 0.57% $29,713 $20,745 $20,745 -$8,968 $69,440 $60,698 -$8,742 -12.59%

Liverpool City 210,113 217,736 7623 $388,709 $402,812 $14,103 3.63% $141,965 $114,981 $114,981 -$26,984 $530,674 $517,792 -$12,882 -2.43%

Liverpool Plains 7,738 7,887 149 $14,315 $14,591 $276 1.93% $29,772 $19,369 4,820$ $24,189 -$5,583 $44,087 $38,779 -$5,308 -12.04%

Lockhart 3,103 3,245 142 $5,741 $6,003 $262 4.57% $18,655 $11,245 4,820$ $16,065 -$2,590 $24,396 $22,068 -$2,328 -9.54%

Maitland City 78,096 81,235 3139 $144,478 $150,285 $5,807 4.02% $66,151 $45,179 $45,179 -$20,972 $210,629 $195,464 -$15,165 -7.20%

Mid-Coast 91,648 92,569 921 $169,549 $171,253 $1,704 1.00% $118,699 $81,880 $81,880 -$36,819 $288,248 $253,133 -$35,115 -12.18%

Mid-Western Regional 24,313 24,826 513 $44,979 $45,928 $949 2.11% $51,031 $38,130 $38,130 -$12,901 $96,010 $84,059 -$11,951 -12.45%

Moree Plains 13,866 13,408 -458 $25,652 $24,805 -$847 -3.30% $34,761 $22,457 4,820$ $27,277 -$7,484 $60,413 $52,082 -$8,331 -13.79%

Mosman 30,646 30,465 -181 $56,695 $56,360 -$335 -0.59% $26,870 $21,763 $21,763 -$5,107 $83,565 $78,123 -$5,442 -6.51%

Murray River 11,596 11,960 364 $21,453 $22,126 $673 3.14% $48,532 $34,355 4,820$ $39,175 -$9,357 $69,985 $61,301 -$8,684 -12.41%

Murrumbidgee 4,071 3,952 -119 $7,531 $7,311 -$220 -2.92% $33,195 $22,797 4,820$ $27,617 -$5,578 $40,726 $34,928 -$5,798 -14.24%

Muswellbrook 17,414 16,427 -987 $32,216 $30,390 -$1,826 -5.67% $33,620 $21,515 4,820$ $26,335 -$7,285 $65,836 $56,725 -$9,111 -13.84%

Nambucca 19,808 19,625 -183 $36,645 $36,306 -$339 -0.92% $31,049 $21,792 4,820$ $26,612 -$4,437 $67,694 $62,918 -$4,776 -7.06%

Narrabri 13,717 13,387 -330 $25,376 $24,766 -$610 -2.40% $31,595 $20,138 4,820$ $24,958 -$6,637 $56,971 $49,724 -$7,247 -12.72%

Narrandera 5,912 5,951 39 $10,937 $11,009 $72 0.66% $22,803 $14,008 4,820$ $18,828 -$3,975 $33,740 $29,838 -$3,902 -11.57%

Narromine 6,796 6,554 -242 $12,573 $12,125 -$448 -3.56% $23,473 $14,453 4,820$ $19,273 -$4,200 $36,046 $31,398 -$4,648 -12.89%

Newcastle City 162,766 162,480 -286 $301,117 $300,588 -$529 -0.18% $102,353 $79,371 $79,371 -$22,982 $403,470 $379,959 -$23,511 -5.83%

North Sydney City 73,514 73,077 -437 $136,001 $135,192 -$809 -0.59% $49,416 $40,023 $40,023 -$9,393 $185,417 $175,216 -$10,201 -5.50%

Northern Beaches 268,849 269,378 529 $497,371 $498,349 $978 0.20% $173,989 $140,918 $140,918 -$33,071 $671,360 $639,267 -$32,093 -4.78%

Oberon 5,350 5,430 80 $9,898 $10,046 $148 1.49% $17,978 $13,888 4,820$ $18,708 $730 $27,876 $28,753 $877 3.15%

Orange City 42,356 41,636 -720 $78,359 $77,027 -$1,332 -1.70% $44,835 $27,796 $27,796 -$17,039 $123,194 $104,822 -$18,372 -14.91%

Parkes 15,328 14,920 -408 $28,357 $27,602 -$755 -2.66% $27,366 $19,956 4,820$ $24,776 -$2,590 $55,723 $52,378 -$3,345 -6.00%

Penrith City 202,076 204,785 2709 $373,841 $378,852 $5,011 1.34% $120,160 $97,320 $97,320 -$22,840 $494,001 $476,173 -$17,828 -3.61%

Port Macquarie-Hastings 78,967 81,202 2235 $146,089 $150,224 $4,135 2.83% $72,340 $45,029 $45,029 -$27,311 $218,429 $195,252 -$23,177 -10.61%

Port Stephens 71,406 71,716 310 $132,101 $132,675 $574 0.43% $73,961 $47,922 $47,922 -$26,039 $206,062 $180,597 -$25,465 -12.36%

Queanbeyan-Palerang 57,334 59,136 1802 $106,068 $109,402 $3,334 3.14% $83,444 $64,181 $64,181 -$19,263 $189,512 $173,582 -$15,930 -8.41%

Randwick City 147,408 151,993 4585 $272,705 $281,187 $8,482 3.11% $89,991 $72,886 $72,886 -$17,105 $362,696 $354,073 -$8,623 -2.38%

Richmond Valley 23,426 23,195 -231 $43,338 $42,911 -$427 -0.99% $53,719 $35,966 $35,966 -$17,753 $97,057 $78,877 -$18,180 -18.73%

Ryde City 119,544 124,798 5254 $221,156 $230,876 $9,720 4.40% $74,228 $60,119 $60,119 -$14,109 $295,384 $290,995 -$4,389 -1.49%

Shellharbour 70,734 71,100 366 $130,858 $131,535 $677 0.52% $59,457 $39,383 $39,383 -$20,074 $190,315 $170,918 -$19,397 -10.19%

Shoalhaven City 101,462 102,811 1349 $187,705 $190,200 $2,495 1.33% $99,988 $67,276 $67,276 -$32,712 $287,693 $257,477 -$30,216 -10.50%

Singleton 24,061 23,496 -565 $44,513 $43,468 -$1,045 -2.35% $30,479 $22,375 $22,375 -$8,104 $74,992 $65,843 -$9,149 -12.20%

Snowy Monaro 20,880 20,713 -167 $38,628 $38,319 -$309 -0.80% $65,502 $50,871 $50,871 -$14,631 $104,130 $89,190 -$14,940 -14.35%

Snowy Valleys Council 15,013 14,582 -431 $27,774 $26,977 -$797 -2.87% $45,392 $31,125 4,820$ $35,945 -$9,447 $73,166 $62,922 -$10,244 -14.00%

Strathfield 40,963 43,585 2622 $75,782 $80,632 $4,850 6.40% $37,189 $30,120 $30,120 -$7,069 $112,971 $110,753 -$2,218 -1.96%

Council

Pop for

2017/2018

Pop for

2018/2019

Pop

Change

2017/2018

Subsidy $1.85

per capita

2018/2019

Subsidy $1.85

per capita

Increase

/Decrease

$

Increase

/Decrease %

Final

2017/2018

Subsidy

Adjustment

Initial

2018/2019

Subsidy

Adjustment

Pop Less

than 20000

Subsidy

Final

2018/2019

Subsidy

Adjustment

Subsidy

Amount

Change in $

Total

2017/2018

Payments

Total

2018/2019

Payments

Total

Payments

Amount

Change in $

Total

Payments

Amount

Change in %

Sutherland Shire 227,312 227,073 -239 $420,527 $420,085 -$442 -0.11% $133,706 $108,292 $108,292 -$25,414 $554,233 $528,377 -$25,856 -4.67%

Sydney City 210,931 233,217 22286 $390,222 $431,451 $41,229 10.57% $136,037 $110,180 $110,180 -$25,857 $526,259 $541,631 $15,372 2.92%

Tamworth Regional 61,800 61,554 -246 $114,330 $113,875 -$455 -0.40% $114,652 $81,165 $81,165 -$33,487 $228,982 $195,040 -$33,942 -14.82%

Temora 6,088 6,258 170 $11,263 $11,577 $314 2.79% $23,335 $14,514 4,820$ $19,334 -$4,001 $34,598 $30,911 -$3,687 -10.66%

Tenterfield 7,038 6,629 -409 $13,020 $12,264 -$756 -5.81% $23,035 $17,533 4,820$ $22,353 -$682 $36,055 $34,617 -$1,438 -3.99%

Tweed 94,011 94,547 536 $173,920 $174,912 $992 0.57% $99,477 $64,687 $64,687 -$34,790 $273,397 $239,599 -$33,798 -12.36%

Upper Hunter 14,522 14,316 -206 $26,866 $26,485 -$381 -1.42% $54,791 $39,076 4,820$ $43,896 -$10,895 $81,657 $70,381 -$11,276 -13.81%

Upper Lachlan 7,794 7,895 101 $14,419 $14,606 $187 1.30% $36,831 $25,491 4,820$ $30,311 -$6,520 $51,250 $44,916 -$6,334 -12.36%

Uralla 6,376 6,115 -261 $11,796 $11,313 -$483 -4.10% $23,345 $14,628 4,820$ $19,448 -$3,897 $35,141 $30,761 -$4,380 -12.46%

Wagga Wagga City 64,272 64,416 144 $118,903 $119,170 $267 0.22% $57,584 $36,200 $36,200 -$21,384 $176,487 $155,369 -$21,118 -11.97%

Walcha 3,054 3,157 103 $5,650 $5,840 $190 3.37% $19,961 $12,262 4,820$ $17,082 -$2,879 $25,611 $22,923 -$2,688 -10.50%

Walgett 6,750 6,231 -519 $12,488 $11,527 -$961 -7.69% $28,556 $18,319 4,820$ $23,139 -$5,417 $41,044 $34,666 -$6,378 -15.54%

Warren 2,901 2,769 -132 $5,367 $5,123 -$244 -4.55% $19,877 $12,163 4,820$ $16,983 -$2,894 $25,244 $22,105 -$3,139 -12.43%

Warrumbungle 9,688 9,421 -267 $17,923 $17,429 -$494 -2.76% $40,176 $29,012 4,820$ $33,832 -$6,344 $58,099 $51,261 -$6,838 -11.77%

Waverley 73,366 73,176 -190 $135,727 $135,376 -$351 -0.26% $49,219 $39,864 $39,864 -$9,355 $184,946 $175,239 -$9,707 -5.25%

Weddin 3,708 3,662 -46 $6,860 $6,775 -$85 -1.24% $17,386 $13,563 4,820$ $18,383 $997 $24,246 $25,158 $912 3.76%

Wentworth 6,962 6,955 -7 $12,880 $12,867 -$13 -0.10% $25,481 $15,650 4,820$ $20,470 -$5,011 $38,361 $33,337 -$5,024 -13.10%

Willoughby City 77,833 79,574 1741 $143,991 $147,212 $3,221 2.24% $51,711 $41,882 $41,882 -$9,829 $195,702 $189,094 -$6,608 -3.38%

Wingecarribee 48,845 49,710 865 $90,363 $91,964 $1,601 1.77% $44,989 $32,201 $32,201 -$12,788 $135,352 $124,164 -$11,188 -8.27%

Wollondilly 49,109 50,877 1768 $90,852 $94,122 $3,270 3.60% $45,544 $36,887 $36,887 -$8,657 $136,396 $131,010 -$5,386 -3.95%

Wollongong City 211,213 213,841 2628 $390,744 $395,606 $4,862 1.24% $125,348 $101,522 $101,522 -$23,826 $516,092 $497,128 -$18,964 -3.67%

Woollahra 59,860 58,883 -977 $110,741 $108,934 -$1,807 -1.63% $41,382 $33,516 $33,516 -$7,866 $152,123 $142,450 -$9,673 -6.36%

Yass Valley 16,870 16,802 -68 $31,210 $31,084 -$126 -0.40% $35,228 $27,554 4,820$ $32,374 -$2,854 $66,438 $63,458 -$2,980 -4.49%

7,723,770 7,858,147 134,377 $14,288,975 $14,537,572 $248,592 $7,356,828 $5,462,428 $274,740 $5,737,168 -$1,619,660 $21,645,808 $20,274,740 -$1,371,068


SECTION 2 – OFFICE OF THE GENERAL MANAGER

9.1 Waste to Energy Proposal – NSW Country Mayors Association

Our Places - Maintain & improve the Shire’s assets & infrastructure

DP6.2 Reduce reliance on landfill by increasing resource recovery, waste minimisation and community education.

Author: General Manager Introduction Council is in receipt of correspondence from the NSW Country Mayors Association, a copy of which is included as an attachment to this report, requesting a financial contribution from all member councils of $15,000.00 towards a study into converting waste to energy. Financial Implications There are no funds allocated for this purpose in the current budget. Summary Discussions with a number of REROC member councils indicates that there is little or no support towards such a financial commitment with no real benefit being identified for individual councils. The study may be better funded by seeking a State or Federal Government Grant.

Recommendation: That Bland Shire Council declines the request from the NSW Country Mayors Association for a financial contribution of $15,000.00 towards a study into converting waste to energy.


9.2 Riverina Joint Organisations – Adoption of Charter


DP10.2 Ensure councillors take ownership and a strong leadership role.

Author: General Manager Introduction Council at its meeting held on 20th November 2018 resolved to defer consideration of the draft Riverina Joint Organisation Charter based on concerns raised by Councillor Lord of the implications of Clauses 5.4 and 5.4.1 which reads: 5.4 Decisions about other functions permitted under clause 2.4 will require:

5.4.1 A two-thirds majority vote in favour of delivering the function. For the purpose of determining the number of votes in favour, a two-thirds’ majority is 5 of the 7 current voting members.

While an argument was put forward that the current legislation does not allow a JO to compel a member council to undertake any course of action there was certainly consensus that clause 5.4.1.was ambiguous and needed to be reviewed. Accordingly, it was agreed, unanimously, that the following clause be inserted in the Charter:

5.4.2 That the above clause is not intended to compel a member council to handover or participate in any operational function delivered by the Joint Organisation.

A number of other documents including; a Code of Meeting Practice, a Code of Conduct and a policy on the Payment of Expenses and Provision of Facilities were also reviewed and deemed appropriate taking into account the new Model Code of Meeting Practice recently released by the OLG. Financial Implications There are no financial implications associated with this report. Summary It is now considered appropriate to endorse the draft Riverina Joint Organisation Charter and associated documents.

Recommendation: That Bland Shire Council endorses the content of the Draft Riverina Joint Organisation Charter, noting the inclusion of Clause 5.4.2 and the other associated documents.


9.3 Drought Communities Program



Author: General Manager

Introduction Based on the discussions held at the special workshop on 11th December 2018 a list of projects has been determined totalling $1M and a copy of that list is included as an attachment to this report. Prior to the December Council Meeting every effort will be made to ascertain if all of the identified projects are eligible under the Drought Communities Program. Depending on the outcome of this action it may be necessary for Council to adjust the list of projects accordingly. Once the final list of projects has been determined a formal application will be submitted to the Federal Government for approval. Financial Implications The current list of projects indicates expenditure across the Shire as follows:

Community - $62,000.00

Wyalong / West Wyalong - $399,125.00

Barmedman - $106,600.00

Ungarie - $131,000.00

Weethalle - $105,000.00

Mirrool - $70,000.00

Tallimba / Yalgogorin - $127,000.00

Total - $1,000,725.00 Summary Subject to the Federal Government’s approval each of the identified projects will need to commence as early as possible in the new year to ensure that they are completed and that all of the $1M is expended by 30th June 2019. I will provide monthly reports to Council to keep Councillors and the community up to date with the progress of each individual project.

Recommendation: 1. That a formal application under the Drought Communities Program be submitted prior to 31st December 2018 including all of the identified projects endorsed at this meeting; and 2. That the General Manager provide monthly reports to Council on the progress of each of the individual projects.


Drought Communities Program

Community

Drought BusterConcert $ 62,000 $ 62,000

Wyalong/West Wyalong

AFL & Cricket Scoreboard $ 30,000

Toilets $ 100,000

Modular Pumup Track (Mobile Skate/Bike track) $ 70,000

Drought Counselling Service Administration $ 50,000

Motor Sports Upgrade canteen and amenities $ 80,000

Showground Shade Awnings $ 26,125

Showground Shade Awnings $ 43,000 $ 399,125

Village Renewal & Revitilisation

Barmedman

Tennis Clubhouse Upgrade $ 7,000

Shade Structure $ 15,000

Tractor Pull Concrete Slab $ 45,700

Colourbond Shed $ 38,900 $ 106,600

Ungarie

Hot Water swimming Pool amenities $ 6,000

Recreation Ground Lighting $ 100,000

New toilets $ 25,000 $ 131,000

Tallimba & Yalgogorin

Shelter, BBQ and Multipurpose Court $ 120,000

Rain Water Tanks for Hall $ 7,000 $ 127,000

Mirrool

Additional Amenities within free camp area including Septic Tank & Drought friendly watering system $ 70,000 $ 70,000

Weethalle

Toilet including Septic Tank $ 60,000

Multipurpose Shed $ 45,000 $ 105,000

Total $ 1,000,725


9.4 Naming of an Unnamed Park – Corner of Monash and Park Streets, West Wyalong



Author: General Manager introduction Council at its meeting held on 17th July 2018 resolved to support the naming of the park at the corner of Park and Monash Streets as Rannard Park and to refer the matter to the NSW Geographical Names Board (GNB) for determination. The GNB undertook its own community consultation and at the close of the submission period of 12th November 2018 a total of five (5) submissions had been received. There were three (3) submissions against the proposal and two (2) submissions in favour. Council had previously received nine (9) submissions with eight (8) in favour and just one (1) against. This equates to a total of 14 submissions with ten (10) in favour and just four (4) against. Financial Implications If Council was to proceed with this proposal the only cost would be the preparation and installation of an appropriate sign estimated at $1,000.00. Funds for this purpose could be allocated from the annual parks and gardens budget. Summary Given the community support for this proposal and the fact that it was a previous council resolution to recognise the Late E.E. Rannard, the recommendation is to advise the Geographical Names Board of Council’s support for the name – Rannard Park.

Recommendation: That Council advises the NSW Geographical Names Board of its support of the name Rannard Park to be allocated to the unnamed park at the corner of Park and Monash Streets, West Wyalong.


9.5 Dump Point Installation at Barmedman

Our Prosperity - Growing our population and jobs

DP14.2 Attract a diverse range of Visitors to the Shire

Author: General Manager Introduction: Bland Shire Council has undertaken the installation of a Dump Point in Barmedman received through an Expression of Interest to Campervan & Motorhome Club of Australia Limited (CMCA). Financial Implication: CMCA has been successful with a grant application through the NSW Government for funds to install 80 dump points across regional and rural NSW. The grant allows CMCA to supply a Dump Ezy unit, signage and up to $3,750 towards installation costs for each location. This will cover the cost of installation and it is not expected that there will be any further cost to Council. Summary: A Dump Point Subsidy Program has been created by the Campervan & Motorhome Club of Australia Limited (CMCA) to develop a network of key infrastructure for recreational vehicles (RVs) across Australia. The basic needs for self-contained RV travellers are a dump point, access to potable water and a place to park overnight. CMCA, as the largest member based RV organisation in Australia, has been working to establish a network of RV dump points across Australia for a number of years. In collaboration with local governments, state governments and Key Environmental Areas (KEA) there are now over 460 public dump points installed. This complements other private dump points in caravan parks and show grounds; all aimed to encourage environmentally safe disposal of black and grey water from vehicles. An Expression of Interest from Bland Shire Council was lodged with CMCA to be part of this initiative and to have one of these dump points installed at Barmedman. To keep within the CMCA guidelines on installing the Dump Point a location was agreed upon which is located within the oval on the corner of De Boos and Star Street. A water connection was laid from the existing toilet block to the Dump Point. An application to recognise Barmedman as an RV friendly town has been submitted and awaiting approval. Once approval has been granted 2 signs will be erected at either end of the main street in Barmedman.


Installation of the Dump Point has been completed by Council staff.

Recommendation: That Council receives and note the installation of a Dump Point at Barmedman.

Location of dump point.


9.6 Strengthening Communities – West Wyalong Rodeo

Our People - A Strong, healthy, connected and inclusive community

DP3.1.7-. Facilitate and support groups that build skills and social inclusion including workshops/presentations

Author: Community Relations Officer Introduction The West Wyalong Horse Sports and Rodeo Association has submitted a Strengthening Communities grant application to Council seeking funding assistance towards the 2019 West Wyalong Rodeo on 23 March 2019. Financial Implications There is currently $44,000 remaining in the Strengthening Communities Grant Fund. Summary The West Wyalong Horse Sports and Rodeo Association will hold its third annual rodeo on 23 March 2019 as part of the 125th anniversary celebrations of Wyalong and West Wyalong. After many years in hiatus, the rodeo returned in 2017 and has quickly grown into one of the Bland Shire’s most popular events. The Horse Sports and Rodeo Association received a grant of $5800 from Council to support the inaugural rodeo and a reduced grant of $4000 in support of the second rodeo. In accordance with Council’s Grants and Donations Policy and the reduced eligibility for funding each year, the Association is seeking funding of $2900 for the 2019 rodeo. The Association project the total cost of running the rodeo to be $47,050 including prizemoney ($15,000), stock ($10,000), the arena crew ($4000), advertising ($3000), insurance ($950), food and drinks ($6000), security ($1000), ambulance ($1500) and other general maintenance and miscellaneous costs. With a $2900 contribution from Council, the Horse Sports and Rodeo Association are projecting to a break even financial result. Any profits will be used to improve the grounds and facilities. The rodeo attracts visitors to the Bland Shire as well as being a valued source of entertainment for local residents and will be a feature event of the 125th anniversary celebrations of Wyalong and West Wyalong.

Recommendation: That Council approve a Strengthening Communities grant of $2900 to the West Wyalong Horse Sports and Rodeo Association in support of the 2019 West Wyalong Rodeo.


SECTION 3 – CORPORATE, COMMUNITY, DEVELOPMENT & REGULATORY SERVICES

9.7 Financial Statements – November 2018


DP10.4 Ensure the long term financial sustainability of Council through effective and prudent financial management.

Author: Director Corporate, Community & Development Services

Introduction The financial report is provided in accordance with the Local Government (General) Regulation 2005. Financial Implications STATEMENT OF BANK BALANCES, RATES COLLECTIONS AND INVESTMENTS FOR THE MONTH OF NOVEMBER, 2018.

BANK BALANCES AS AT 30th NOVEMBER, 2018

ACCOUNT BALANCE

General Fund $ 5,164,363.39 BCard $ 20,990.00 $ 5,185,353.39

Invested Funds

Fixed Deposits $ 26,700,000.00 Deposits at Call $ 2,189,403.10 $ 28,889,403.10

Net Balance $ 34,074,756.49

Percentage of investment to Net Balance 84.78%


STATEMENT OF BANK BALANCES AS AT 30.11.18

SUBMITTED TO THE ORDINARY MEETING DECEMBER 18TH, 2018

BALANCE as at 01.11.18 $ 2,894,425.41

Add Receipts

Receipts over $150,000

8/11/18 Investment Redemption – Rural Bank $ 1,000,000.00 16/11/18 OLG Financial Assistance Grant 2nd Qtr $ 937,889.00 22/11/18 RTR Quarterly Payment $ 1,131,972.00 23/11/18 Evolution Mining 2nd Qtr Rates $ 231,880.75 28/11/18 RMS NATDIS – November 2018 $ 799,522.00 Receipts under $150,000 $ 1,820,693.71

Total Receipts for November 2018 $ 5,921,957.46

Less Payments

Payments over $150,000 8/11/18 Investment – Bank of Queensland -$ 1,000,000.00

Payments under $150,000 -$ 2,652,019.48

Total Payments for November 2018 -$ 3,652,019.48 CASH BALANCE $ 5,164,363.39

Limit of Overdraft Arranged with Bank $ 350,000.00


ACCOUNTS SUMMARY

The following is a summary of accounts paid for the period November 01, 2018 to November 30, 2018.

I CERTIFY, That the accounts included in the accounts summary and totalling as detailed under:-

Fund Voucher No.s

Total

Cheques 025525 - 025548 $ 118,954.80 Auto-pay Creditors E015765– E016037 $ 3,067,841.72

Auto-pay Payroll 4/11/18 – 25/11/18 $ 455,650.46

November Bank Charges & Commission etc $ 1,150.10 Direct Debits Repayments &

Vehicle Lease $ 8,422.40

$ 3,652,019.48

1. Are fully supported by vouchers and invoices and have been fully registered. 2. The responsible officer concerned has certified that the goods for which respective

accounts are submitted have been rendered to order and/or that the services for which respective accounts are submitted have been rendered according to order.

3. Official orders have been issued for the supply of such goods and services. The goods for

which respective accounts are submitted have been checked with the entries in the goods order book.

4. The prices and computations of every account are correct. 5. The prices for the goods supplied or services rendered under the contract or quotation in

accordance therewith and in all cases the prices charged are according to order and as far as I am able to ascertain fair and reasonable.

6. The provisions of the Local Government Act, 1993 and Regulations in connection therewith

have been complied with. Further I also certify that the Ledger has been reconciled with the bank statements for the last preceding monthly period. ……………………………………….. Director of Corporate, Community & Development Services


CERTIFICATE OF GENERAL MANAGER This accounts summary, a copy of which was submitted to each member of Council on the 18th December 2018, has been checked and is fully supported by vouchers and invoices. These vouchers have been duly certified as to receipt of goods, the rendition of services, to prices and computations, and to costings. …………………………… General Manager

CERTIFICATE OF CHAIRMAN OF ORDINARY MEETING I certify that this accounts summary, covering amounts totalling $3,652,019.48 was submitted to the Ordinary Meeting on the 18th December 2018 and that the amounts are presented to Council for confirmation of payment. …………………………………… Chairman of Ordinary Meeting RATES REPORT Below is a summary of outstanding rates Total rates income levied (2018/19) $ 9,810,394.11 Rates received as at 30/11/2018 $ 5,307,341.59 % of rates received to date 54.10% The total rates income includes rates in arrears and accumulated interest. Summary The information provided is in accordance with the Local Government (General) regulation 2005 and that the financial position of Council is satisfactory and the external investments are held in accordance with section 625 of the Local Government act 1993.

Recommendation: 1. That Council receive and note the statement of Bank Balances, Rates

Collections and Investments for the month of November, 2018 2. That Council confirms the payment of accounts, for the period 01 November to

30 November 2018, summarised in the accounts summary totalling $3,652,019.48



9.8 Parking Fine Concessions


DP13.2 Develop, implement and promote best practice governance policies and procedures

Author: Director Corporate, Community, Development and Regulatory Services Introduction Over time, Council has been receiving a greater number of parking related comments. With the warmer weather approaching and increased activity within the main street, it is predicted that these complaints will further increase. In the past, council’s approach has been to place notes on the windows of cars to remind them of the restricted parking times. This approach, while community friendly, has had varying degrees of success. A major factor in being reluctant to issue fines is due to the cost of the associated fine - $112 as set under State Legislation. Council has the opportunity to apply for a concession to reduce the fine from $112 to $80. This amount, while still costly is more in proportion with the nature of the offence. Council staff will commence regular patrols of the Main Street and Bernardi’s Car park in 2019 with the intention to issue Penalty Infringement Notices to vehicles which exceed the

parking limits. If Council wishes to apply for the concession, the application must be completed by 1 January 2019 and the change will come into effect on 1 March 2019. Financial Implications As Council has rarely issued parking fines in the past, this resolution will not have any adverse effect on the budget. Summary Council has the opportunity to reduce parking fines within the Shire from $112 to $80 with applications due by 1 January 2019 coming in to practice on 1 March 2019.

Recommendation: That Council make application to The Hon Dominic Perrottet MP, Treasurer to opt in and reduce parking fines from $112 to $80, indexed annually as per current State practices.


9.9 Local Heritage Assistance Funding – 77 Neeld Street, Wyalong


DP14.2 Attract a diverse range of visitors to the Shire

Author: Manager Development and Regulatory Services Introduction An application for Local Heritage Assistance Funding has been received from Top Town Wash & Dry for the construction of a verandah at 77 Neeld Street, Wyalong (formerly Duncan Diesel Fuel Injection Repairs). Council has received a development application for the change of use of the building to a laundromat and the construction of a new verandah. The proposed construction cost of the verandah is $12,000.00. In accordance with the Heritage Funding Guidelines, the project is eligible for funding of up to $3500.00. The Heritage Advisor has reviewed the application and provides the following recommendation:

As the building is a contemporary façade and the existing metal cladding is not to be replaced, no false traditional elements such as brackets should be used. The new verandah will then provide a good fit to the building.

If the metal deck façade was to be replaced, the best material would be fibre cement boards with a paint finish in Dulux Limed White and centrally located sign panel.

The following colours are recommended: o Posts and lintel beam Dulux Limed White o Skirts Dulux Woodland Grey o Timber roof structure Dulux Oyster Linen o Vertical gable ends Dulux Oyster Linen.

Financial Implications There is currently $18,000 of unallocated funds in the Local Heritage Grants budget. Summary The project is consistent with the Local Heritage Fund Guidelines as the proposed works will provide a positive contribution to the streetscape of Wyalong.


Recommendation: That Council approve funding of $3,500.00 for the construction of a new verandah at 77 Neeld Street, Wyalong.


SECTION 4 – ASSET & ENGINEERING SERVICES

9.10 Minutes Traffic Advisory Committee

Our Places - Maintain & Improve the Shire’s assets & infrastructure

DP 5.1 Facilitate the delivery of accessible services and infrastructure.

Author: Director Assets and Engineering Services Introduction The Bland Shire Council Traffic Advisory Committee met on 6 December, 2018, and the minutes of the meeting are attached. Under the guidelines, the minutes are to be tabled at a Council meeting for adoption or otherwise. Financial Implications None.

Recommendation: 1. That the minutes for the Bland Shire Council Traffic Advisory Committee held on 6 December, be adopted. 2. That all resolutions of the Bland Shire Council Traffic Advisory Committee within the minutes that have not been addressed by an individual report to Council, be actioned.

MINUTES OF THE BLAND SHIRE TRAFFIC ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING HELD ON TUESDAY 6 DECEMBER, 2018 COMMENCING AT 11.00 AM. ____________ Present: Will Marsh, Bland Shire Council Chairperson

Fazlul Hoque - Roads and Maritime Services, Gemma Gelling - Local Member representative, Murray Thomas – Council Representative, Steve Reid – Asset Management Officer, Bland Shire Council. Mark Griffith – NSW Police Force Michelle Doolan – Road Safety Officer, Bland Shire Council Colleen Dore – minutes.

Will welcomed everyone to the meeting and an introduction of everyone went around the table.

1. Local Traffic Committee Powers Will went through the power of the Traffic Committee. 2. Correspondence Nil. Reports

a) No right Hand Turn Church Street at Main Street

Murray spoke in relation to problems at this intersection. He would like a “No Right Hand Turn” sign or same painted on the road.

Steve said the problem with a sign is that it may block vision of cars coming out of the intersection.

Will suggested a sign at White Tank Lane or the supermarket entrance of oncoming “no right hand turn” might help.

Michelle said that from a road safety point of view there were already a lot of signs at that intersection and supported the signage painted on the road.

Both Mark and Gemma liked the area of signage on the road also. Gemma asked if there was room for directional signs on the other side of the Main Street directing traffic right along Court street back to the Highway. Gemma also inquired of alligator teeth on the road at the intersection, Michelle said that they can cause confusion.

Murray preferred the above ideas instead of signs at, and travel down, White Tank Lane.

Recommendations:

Request the RMS to approve of the following: -

That “No right turn” be marked on the road pavement between White Tank Lane and Main Street;

That directional arrows also be placed between White Tank Lane and Main Street;

That, if possible, another “No right turn” sign be placed on the South-East corner of the Church Street and Main Street intersection;

That a sign be placed in Church Street, before Main Street, leading vehicles wanting to get back on to the Newell Highway travelling west, across the intersection;

That guidance signs be placed in Church and Court Streets leading vehicles back to the Newell Highway travelling towards Narrandera.

Voted unanimously.

MINUTES OF THE BLAND SHIRE TRAFFIC ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING HELD ON TUESDAY 6 DECEMBER, 2018 COMMENCING AT 11.00 AM.

GENERAL BUSINESS

a) Taxi Rank Church Street – Non-use and Parking

Will provided a concept pan as an alternative if it was decided to remove the taxi parking area.

Murray said the area was put there in the first place with a vision to become a transport hub as a bus stop and taxi rank and it became inaccessible when double white lines were put there. He also said the taxi door will not open properly to let passengers in as it hits the pole/road. He suggested a disabled access ramp be placed there to allow easy access. He also suggested a call button near the taxi rank to call a taxi service, he has spoken to the Taxi Council about this and suggests a grant be applied for this to be installed. However, rather than the taxi rank be put back in its original position, he would prefer a Taxi spot in Main Street near the new supermarket area.

Will suggested the Aberlines carpark instead of the Main Street as the carpark would be more serviceable and Council can try this area out to start with.

Murray was amenable to the idea provided it was located where the current disabled parking spot is located.

Recommendation:

The sketch by the Director of Asset and Engineering Services be enacted.

Voted unanimously.

From this recommendation it was also requested Council look at: - a) A disabled ramp at the Taxi Pick Up area; b) Council look for grant funding to place a Taxi call phone at the Taxi Pick up area; c) A Taxi parking area be provided in Aberlines parking area where the current

disabled parking is located.

b) Town Lane Survey – Mainly Shire, Court, Gladstone and Soudens Lane

It was discussed that the area be changed to a 40 km/h zone. Both Murray and Gemma thought that this was a good idea, and also to make this area pedestrian friendly.

Steve said that his area would get busy with the new supermarket with loading zones and was also loading zone for shops in that area already.

Mark suggested mirrors in areas behind Court Lane for vision purposes.

Faz said that to change speed zones it needs to be passed onto the RMS for review.

Recommendation

The RMS be requested to investigate and approve the creation of 40km/hr shared pedestrian /vehicle zones in Gladstone Lane, Soudens Lane, Shire and Court Lanes.

Voted unanimously.


c) Lane Parallel to Church Street Garage Exiting Problems. Recommendation It was moved that a “No Stopping” signs be placed in this area.

Voted unanimously.

d) Water and Main street – Site Distance Main Street

Will said that Council could place hatching in the 10 metre enforceable zone but asked if this should be done. Mark said it helps with enforcement if it is hatched out. Will said that he had never seen a problem in that area and that in front of Majors Mulch was more of a problem.

Mark and Faz said it is more of an enforcement issue, Will said more education is needed and that Council will advertise in the local paper re parking.

The Committee supported the advertising and the monitoring of the area.

e) Water Street Majors Mulch – Line Mark Parking Bays

Will stated that parking bays, if marked, are longer, so less parking would be available and that there was not much parking along that area due to driveways etc.

Mark asked if the cars that park there could park in the parking area behind Majors Mulch. He suggested communicating with the Evolution Mining and requesting staff not to park in this area and park in the carpark behind.

It was unanimously voted that no bays be marked in this area and that the Police enforce the parking limits and that Evolution be contacted in relation to parking in the carpark behind Majors Mulch.

f) England Lane off Court Street– One Way Will said the problem is that the lane is a 2-way lane, Steve said that the exit would be

made through the Church yard if it was made one way.

Michelle said safety is of a concern in this area as people park in the Church yard also to drop at the School.

Gemma wanted to know if there was a need for vehicle access and if the Church had

compliant traffic parking there. Michelle asked if the Church had adequate insurance for all traffic issues in the area.

Mark suggested that it be closed to all traffic except local traffic and emergency

vehicles only.

The Committee voted that a traffic counter be placed in the area, that the situation be investigated further, including with the RMS regarding school safety. The Church be asked their thoughts on the area and look at making it a pedestrian access only.


g) Star Lane – Garage exiting Problems

The Committee moved that there be signage placed “No Stopping” across garage area.

h) Fleece Street to Main Street – Give Way Sign Replace, maybe Move Holding Lines Further Out.

It was stated that trucks parked in main Street do blur vision coming from Fleece Street.

The Committee moved to remark the lines, put the “Give Way” signs back in place and monitor the area.

Other Business

Mark asked whether there could be a mirror put on the pole out of the Police Station parking area in the lane back towards Church Street to help with Police exiting the area.

Will said that Council will take the request on board.

There being no further business the meeting then terminated at 12.20 pm.


9.11 ‘No Right’ Turn West into Main Street from Church Street Travelling South.



Author: Director Assets and Engineering Services Introduction This intersection is located on the Newell Highway and is, therefore, outside the determining powers of the Local Traffic Advisory Committee. The matter is to be determined by the RMS. However, Bland Shire Council referred the matter to the Local Traffic Advisory Committee to determine a position for the council to pass on to the RMS. There exists “No Right turn” signs when travelling south along Church Street at the Main Street intersection. These signs were placed to protect the pedestrians on the pedestrian crossing which is located in Main Street just to the west of the intersection. The reason for this is that when a vehicle is turning right out of Church Street the driver would be looking at traffic coming from the left, and by the time their attention is turned back to the road in front they would be very close or on the pedestrian crossing. There have been many reports that vehicles are turning right contrary to the “No Right Turn” signs. In general, this is a police enforcement matter and the drivers should be “booked” for their infringements. However, an investigation has been done to ascertain the dynamics of this intersection and if more can be done with additional works. Scenario 1 That all drivers approaching the intersection do not see the signage and turn right illegally without being aware of the fact. The signs in place are to RMS standards and are of the appropriate size. Therefore, they will be seen if the drivers are observing all the signs and not seeing them is not a legal excuse to perform an illegal action.


Scenario 2 That all drivers know that the right hand turn is illegal, but do it anyway. The vehicles that do this could be broken up to locals and travellers. Locals that do this would do it because it was the quickest route and are taking a risk not being caught by the Police. Travellers could be travelling from the east to the west along Main Street and turnoff to the supermarket before commencing their journey. They could try to get back to their route the same way they entered and, finding they can’t turn right, do it anyway. This could be addressed by having another “No Right turn” sign and “No Right turn” pavement markings at the intersection of Church Street and White Tank Lane, with signs leading them down to White Tank Lane back to Main Street. Scenario 3 That the visibility to traffic in Main Street to the west of the intersection is not good enough and leads to a dangerous situation at the intersection when approaching from the north. As previously explained the “No Right turn” was placed to give safety for pedestrians on the pedestrian crossing. It does not enhance safety at the intersection. If visibility is a problem, then all southerly movements on Church Street at the intersection are dangerous. Therefore, if visibility is thought to be a problem, then consideration should be given to making that section of Church Street between Main Street and White Tank Lane “One Way” north only. Observing all concerned and talking to appropriate authorities, it would seem that Scenario 2 seems to be what is mainly occurring at this intersection. The recommendation to Bland Shire Council’s Local Traffic Advisory Committee is to request the RMS to approve the following:

Place another “No Right turn” sign in Church Street at the Church Street and White

Tank intersection;

Place “No Right turn” pavement markings in Church Street at the Church Street and

White Tank intersection;

Place signs guiding traffic along White Tank lane back to Main Street;

When signage is complete ask the Police to monitor the intersection for illegal

activities.

The Bland Shire Council’s Local Traffic Advisory Committee met on 6 December, 2018, and after some discussion, recommended to request the RMS to approve of the following.

That “No right turn” be marked on the road pavement between White Tank Lane and Main Street;

That directional arrows also be place between White Tank Lane and Main Street;

That, if possible, another “No right turn” sign be placed on the South-East corner of the Church Street and Main Street intersection;

That a sign be placed in Church Street, before Main Street, leading vehicles wanting to get back on to the Newell Highway travelling west, across the intersection;

That guidance signs be placed in Church and Court Streets leading vehicles back to the Newell Highway travelling towards Narrandera.



Financial Implications None. Works needed will be covered by the Operational Budget.

Recommendation: That the RMS be requested to investigate and approve the following: 1. “No Right Turn” pavement markings and directional arrows be placed on the road pavement between White Tank Lane and Main Street; 2. Another “No right hand turn” sign be placed, if possible, on the South-East corner of Church and Main Streets; 3. A sign be placed in Church Street, before Main Street, leading vehicles wanting to get back to the Newell Highway travelling west, across the intersection; 4. Guidance signs be placed in Church and Court Streets leading vehicles back to the Newell Highway travelling towards Narrandera.


9.12 Taxi Rank Church Street



Author: Director Assets and Engineering Services

Introduction It had been brought up by members of the community that Taxis are no longer using the Taxi Rank in Church Street and maybe the area should revert to public parking. The matter was put up for discussion as part of general business of the Bland Shire Council’s Local Traffic Advisory Committee held on 6 December, 2018. If the committee agreed to the disbanding of the taxi rank, the Director of Asset and Engineering Services tabled a sketch of a possible alternative. The sketch turns the area from two general parking spots to four general parking spots with a No Stopping Taxi exempt pick up area near the pedestrian crossing and No Stopping at the Shire lane end to allow visual access for Police vehicles leaving the lane. After some discussion the Bland Shire Council’s Local Traffic Advisory Committee adopted that the sketch by the Director of Asset and Engineering Services be enacted. However, as part of the enactment it was requested that the following also be investigated:

a) A taxi call phone be constructed at the pickup area and that grant funding be sought; b) A disabled ramp be placed at the pickup area to allow disabled access to Taxis; c) and a parking spot be made available for taxis within Aberline’s parking area,

currently where the disabled parking exists. Financial Implications None. Works needed will be covered by the Operational budget,

Recommendation: That the current Taxi Rank in Church Street be reconfigured as per the sketch attached to the report.




9.13 Lanes Parallel to Main Street



Author: Director Assets and Engineering Services Introduction During a recent lane survey conducted by Bland Shire Council’s Asset and Engineering Services Department, it was noticed that there was high pedestrian activity in lanes parallel to Main Street. Mainly Gladstone Lane, Soudans Lane, Shire Lane and Court Lane. It was believed that these lanes should be looked at for conversion into 40 km/hr shared pedestrian/vehicle zones, the same as that which already exists in White Tank Lane. The matter of speed reductions is outside the determining powers of the Local Traffic Advisory Committee. The matter is to be determined by the RMS. However, it was tabled as part of general business of the Bland Shire Council’s Local Traffic Advisory Committee held 6 December,2018, to determine a position of council and to see if Council wanted to refer the matter to the RMS. Bland Shire Council’s Local Traffic Advisory Committee recommended that the RMS should be approached to change these lanes to 40 km/hr shared pedestrian zones. Financial Implications None. Works needed will be covered by the Operational budget,

Recommendation: That the RMS be requested to investigate and approve the creation of 40km/hr shared pedestrian/vehicle zones in Gladstone Lane, Soudans Lane, Shire Lane and Court Lane.



9.14 Lanes Parallel to Church Street on Western Side



Author: Director Assets and Engineering Services Introduction Complaints have been received from residents of Church Street that back onto this lane, that vehicles are parking on the other side of the lane and blocking their access to their garages. The photo below shows the area in question. The parking occurs adjacent to the high shed/carport located on the left side of the picture (west side of lane). The problem can be seen also by the dwelling access immediately to the left of the picture having put two lines across their access to try and stop parking. It should be noted that adjacent to the big gum tree further down on the left is the back entry to the doctor’s premises on Maitland Street. This matter was brought up as general business at the Bland Shire Council’s Local Traffic Advisory Committee held on 6 December, 2018.


The Committee recommended that “No Stopping” signs be placed on the western side of the lane stating just south of the first painted line and ending just past the entry the doctor’s premises. Financial Implications None. Works needed will be covered by the Operational Budget.

Recommendation: That “No Stopping” signs be placed on the west side of the laneway starting just south of the first painted line and ending just past the entry to the doctor’s premise.


9.15 Star Lane



Author: Director Assets and Engineering Services Introduction Complaints have been received from residents backing on to Star Lane that loading vehicles are parking across their garages and not allowing access. Photo below shows the area in question.

The businesses have been told to ask the deliverers to stop doing this, but the parking continues. This matter was brought up as general business at the Bland Shire Council’s Local Traffic Advisory Committee held on 6 December, 2018.


The Committee recommended that “No Stopping” signs be placed on both sides of the lane adjacent to the garages. Financial Implications None. Works needed will be covered by the Operational budget,

Recommendation: That “No Stopping” signs be placed adjacent to the garages in Star Lane.


9.16 Events



Author: Director Assets and Engineering Services Introduction In approving of Events which have a road closure component, Councils have to follow the NSW State Government guidelines “Traffic and Transport Management of Special Events”. The guidelines consist of prescriptive forms and, in another section, it classifies events into 4 classes (basically class 1 is severe traffic disruption to class 4 which is minor traffic disruption). Each class has a prescribed way of processing the approval but not necessarily in the order that is outlined. The steps that Bland Shire Council has in place for approval of Events is that the organiser fills in the RMS prescribed application forms and submits them to council with the required information for approval. The council staff check that all the required fields have been adhered to and are satisfactory, and if not, organises the submission of the extra information required. It should be noted that Bland Shire Council provides free of charge Traffic Control Plans for the applications as part of its social responsibility. The application is then sent to the members of Local Traffic Advisory Committee (or to those members who have not already approved the application) for their endorsement. Once endorsed, the forms, which were originally signed by applicant, are then approved by signature by the Bland Shire Council’s Director Asset and Engineering Services and, if required, also by the RMS. A copy of an approval is attached for the information of council. This system complies with the NSW Government Guidelines and allows council staff to approve as quickly as possible Event applications. Many applications are given to council on short notice and it takes work to get them approved on time. In the time that council has been using this system, applications have been processed for all events on time; all events have been a success; and no complaints have been received regarding the holding of the events. Therefore, it must be concluded that the current system works. If the exact processing steps of the NSW guidelines with regard to Class 1 and Class 2 events (which do not need necessarily be followed under the guidelines) – The application should go to the Local Traffic Advisory Committee first, then to a Bland Shire Council meeting for endorsement prior to the processing of forms and related matters. This would take at least 4 – 6 weeks (maybe a lot longer) to process an application which, with many applications, is far too long. For instance, admittedly it was an extreme case, council only had 4 days to process the road closure for the recent beer event. This delay in time is circumvented when, under a previous delegation to the Director Asset and Engineering Services, the Director Asset and Engineering Services signs the approval


forms the position is also approving of the event for Council. Reviewing this matter on an inquiry, the previous delegation does not expressly state this, even though it does imply the position can do this. Financial Implications None.

Recommendation: That the Director Asset and Engineering Services be given the delegated authority to approve events within Bland Shire Council area which have a road closure component.


SECTION 5 – REPORTS FOR INFORMATION

Recommendation: That the following reports, provided for information only, be received and noted:

9.17 - Economic Development & Tourism Report – November 2018

9.18 - Community Services Report

9.19 - Bland Shire Library Monthly Update

9.20 - Development Services Activity Report

9.21 - Assets & Engineering Services Report


9.17 Economic Development & Tourism Report – November 2018


DP14.2 Attract a diverse range of Visitors to the Shire DP15.2 Continue ongoing engagement and communication with the Shire’s existing industry and business including support for diversification and alternate industry or business DP15.3 Lobby for and work with industry, government and education providers to ensure Bland Shire residents and businesses have access to competitive telecommunication services DP16.2 through partnerships with stakeholders foster our education, learning and training industry and increase employment opportunities within the Shire

Author: Senior Economic Development & Tourism Advisor Introduction Bland Shire Council November 2018 Economic Development & Tourism

Report Financial Implications Nil Summary Bland Shire Council December 2018 Economic Development & Tourism

Report Newell Highway Website Analytics

Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov

2017 2017 2018 2018 2018 2018 2018 2018 2018 2018 2018 2018 2018

Pageviews 9,753 13,446 14,066 8,810 12,310 12,743 10,523 12,903 14,959 12,983 11,861 10,427 12,743

Visits 3,857 5,176 5,935 3,440 4,983 4,691 4,526 4,910 5,677 5,084 4,601 4,039 4,691

Visitors 2,939 4,106 4,628 2,787 3,938 3,712 3,345 4,002 4,634 4,241 3,992 3,394 3,712

Desktop 37.4% 31.5% 30.4% 39.2% 34.7% 33.1% 32.3% 33.2% 31.6% 33.4% 32.1% 31.5% 33.1%

Mobile 42.2% 50.4% 52.3% 41.0% 45.8% 45.8% 44.0% 44.3% 46.0% 45.5% 48.6% 47.8% 45.8%

Tablet 20.4% 18.2% 17.2% 19.7% 19.5% 21.1% 23.7% 22.5% 22.4% 21.1% 19.3% 20.7% 22.1%

0

2,000

4,000

6,000

8,000

10,000

12,000

14,000

16,000

2017 2017 2018 2018 2018 2018 2018 2018 2018 2018 2018 2018 2018

Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov



0

2,000

4,000

6,000

8,000

10,000

12,000

14,000

16,000

18,000

2016201620172017201720172017201720172017201720172017201720182018201820182018201820182018201820182018

Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov



November Newell Highway Website Analytics


NSW Free Flight Society The NSW Free Flight Society will be holding their Christmas function in West Wyalong from 28 December 2018 to 2 January 2019. NRMA Electric Vehicle Charging Station The NRMA visited West Wyalong to inspect the location of the electric vehicle station.


Business Bus The Business Bus visited West Wyalong on Wednesday 21 November 2018.

The Acting Prime Minister Visit The Acting Prime Minister Michael McCormack visited West Wyalong on Thursday 15 November and his visit included the West Wyalong Highway School, Ungarie Central School, GrainCorp Calleen, Evolution Cowal Gold Operations / Lake Cowal Conservation Centre, Wendy’s Embroidery, GP Evans & Englert, What’s Cookin, West Wyalong Advocate, Mid West Fabrication and GR Davies at Tallimbalong: West Wyalong High School Ungarie Central School

GrainCorp Calleen Lake Cowal Conservation Centre


Evolution Mining, Evolution Cowal Gold Operations and Lake Cowal Conservation Centre

Wendy’s Embroidery

GP Evans & Englert


What’s Cookin West Wyalong Advocate

Mid West Fabrication

Davies Tallimbalong


71st MAAA National Model Aircraft Championships 24 April – 1 May 2019 Great news for the Bland Shire in that the 71st MAAA Nationals will be held in West Wyalong and the dates that they are looking at are the 24th April 2019 to 1st May 2019. The following article has been extracted from the latest Wingspan Magazine:

Building upon the success of this year’s momentous 70th MAAA National Model Aircraft Championships- which attracted 270 pilots, along with their supporters to the friendly town of West Wyalong for a thrilling seven-day event- the 71st MAAA National Model Aircraft Championships in 2019, will once again aim to be one of the most thrilling events on the MAAA calendar. Continuing the classic tradition of aeromodelling fun, competition and camaraderie, the 71st Nationals will be from 24 April – 1 May in West Wyalong, will bring back all your favourite flying elements, including the time-honoured ‘free for all’ night scramble and the NSW Free Flight Society’s subsequent barbecue on the AB field. The 71st Nationals will also see the floodgates open up to non-competitors too. “The Nationals was always designed for people to compete, with an emphasis on that competition aspect, however, what we’re planning to do for the 71st event is add a bit of a daily ‘fun fly’ element,” says new event coordinator Terry Bond. “Non-competitors will now be given a place to fly their aeroplanes too. For example, we will organise for flyers from the three main disciplines to fly inside the stadium and have a ‘fun fly indoor session’ on a daily basis.” Also, acting upon some feedback from the previous event, the pylon radio control event will be relocated from the airport to the AB field and we are currently having a field surveyed at the AB field. “The planes got knocked around a bit at the last event because the ground was too dry, so we’ll be ensuring it’s smooth for pylon radio control flyers for the next event.” Judging from the enthusiastic response last time, where the majority of aeromodelling attendees said they looked forward to returning, the positive vibe is set to continue, ensuring that the 71st MAAA National Model Aircraft Championships will be an event as equally memorable. “The attendance and overall vibe was fabulous for the 70th Nationals, so if we get the same again we’ll be over the moon,” concludes Terry. The 71st MAAA National Model Aircraft Championships will take place 24 April – 1 May.


Bland Shire Events List 2018

DECEMBER LOCATION

3-6 Cowal Gold Operations Shut Down West Wyalong

5 Library After School Christmas Activity West Wyalong

5 International Day of People with a Disability West Wyalong

8 West Wyalong Markets West Wyalong

9 Carols by Candlelight – West Wyalong West Wyalong

12 Library After School Christmas Activity West Wyalong

14 Business West Wyalong Christmas Carnival West Wyalong

22 Carols by Candlelight – Ungarie Ungarie

25 Christmas Day NSW

26 Boxing Day Public Holiday NSW

Please note: Dates can change, please see the Bland Shire Events website for updates

Visitor Information Centre Statistics

7 5

43

0

10

20

30

40

50

19-35 36-50 51>

Age Group - November 2018

5

7

3

11

6

8

3

12

0

2

4

6

8

10

12

14

03

-No

vem

be

r-2

01

8

04

-No

vem

be

r-2

01

8

10

-No

vem

be

r-2

01

8

11

-No

vem

be

r-2

01

8

17

-No

vem

be

r-2

01

8

18

-No

vem

be

r-2

01

8

24

-No

vem

be

r-2

01

8

25

-No

vem

be

r-2

01

8

November 2018


Others: include questions for historic information, free camping, laudry services and venue hire.

Statistics for VIC during weekdays (Monday to Saturday morning 12pm) November 2018

Visitors: 154 Phone call and email: 17

22

18

12 129 8 8 7 6

4 4 42 2

0

5

10

15

20

25

Type of Enquiry during November 2018


9.18 Community Services Report


DP3. Nurture a strong sense of community and enrich the cultural life for the residents of the Bland Shire

Author: Community Relations Officer and Community Development Officer The Mindful Warrior Village School Visits As part of 2018 Mental Health Month activities, Council engaged Anna Gannon, the highly sought after ‘Mindful Warrior’ to attend a number of village schools across the shire to conduct mindfulness sessions with students. The sessions Anna delivered at each of the school were a huge success with all staff noting their desire to have Anna back in the future.


Naradhan Public School Creative Arts Day Council’s Community Development Officer ventured to Naradhan Public School on Wednesday 14 November to assist with the schools Creative Arts Day. The Creative Arts Day was attended by all small schools around the area with students getting very hands on with a number of arts and cultural activities including drama, mosaic, pottery, wind chime making, and photoshop skills.

International Day of People with Disability Celebrations This year’s Bland Shire International Day of People with a Disability celebrations and Access Awards were held in the Bland Shire Council Chambers on Wednesday 5 December with over 50 people attending to celebrate the wonderful contribution and achievements of people with disability within our community. The event also featured the presentation of an Access Award to West Wyalong French Hot Bread, in recognition of their contribution to improving access within the community. A delicious light lunch and a screening of the highly empowering and extremely moving film ‘Wonder’ followed the celebrations.


9.19 Bland Shire Library Monthly Update


DP3.4 Foster a community learning culture optimising our physical and virtual spaces

NSWPLA Conference The annual NSWPLA Conference was held in Coffs Harbour from 27-30 November. The conference gave the opportunity to be inspired by library initiatives while continuing to provide high level services within our communities on limited funds. Presentations included information and experiences in literacy and the potential and expanding role of libraries, digital inclusion, the importance of community connectedness and thinking laterally to achieve the most of what we have and can provide in our communities – sometimes thinking outside the box and taking risks while challenging norms.

The important role of makerspaces in libraries was reiterated endorsing our library’s move toward a more flexible space that can be adapted to need. Libraries play a big part in the liveability of our community, and we need to be smart and think ahead in terms of the ways we provide library services – adapting and changing and getting the balance right as to “what we have always done” opposed to “what our community really wants”. The conference was reminded that change brings opportunity, and by saying yes (while being smart about it), following our interests, and being deliberate, we can become comfortable with change and make the most of it. It is important however to take small steps, explore the challenges so we can deal with them, and find the opportunities they present, join forces with people or organisations that can help refine and consolidate our ideas, don’t be afraid to try new things, find out what our users and non-users need, and how we can adapt to meet those needs and lastly embrace imperfection, as none of us are perfect.

The last business was held on Friday morning concluding with the AGM.

Summer Reading Club Launched The library launched its annual Summer Reading Club Program on Thursday 29 November 2018. Approximately 80 people were in attendance with 40 children aged 5–16 years registering for the program which runs from December 1 2018 – January 31 2019. The program which encourages children and young people to read over the long summer break by providing incentives in the form of vouchers and book prizes is being sponsored this year by the L & R Group and Cowal Gold Operations.


Book Launch To coincide with the launch of its Summer Reading Club Program, the library invited local author Nadia Worland to present her children’s book ‘POWman: Unleash the Hero Within’. The book which Nadia co-wrote with friend Dave POW Tabain is currently sitting at number 9 on the Australian children’s bestsellers list. Nadia was extremely thankful for the opportunity to promote her book and has donated several copies to the library.

Food for Fines The library’s annual Food for Fines campaign which runs from Monday 26 November to 5pm Thursday 20 December 2018 is proving highly successful with many patrons taking the opportunity to have their late fees waived in lieu of donations of non-perishable food items. All food items will be collected by the St Vincent de Paul Society, West Wyalong Branch, and distributed to local families in need over the festive season.

Giving Tree Library staff have been overwhelmed by the generosity of community members in support of its annual Giving Tree which runs from Monday 12 November to Monday 17 December 2018. All gifts will be distributed by the St Vincent de Paul Society, West Wyalong Branch, to local households who are struggling to make ends meet – hopefully making Christmas for those in need a little brighter.

Special Story-time with Jessica Smith The library was very privileged to have former Paralympian and now author Jessica Smith read her children’s book ‘Little Miss Jessica Goes to School’ – which she then discussed with the children. Jessica also had on display her Olympic torches and medals won while representing Australia in swimming. A wonderful morning with lots of positive feedback from both parents and children.


Safety Talk The library recently hosted a talk by Council’s Road Safety Officer Michelle Doolan. Michelle presented her talk on child car seats and child restraint laws.

Volunteer Work Placement Students The library has taken on a new volunteer work placement student. The Year 9 student from West Wyalong High School will attend the library each Tuesday for 1.5 hours until the 18 December 2018. It is anticipated that this arrangement will continue in the new school year.

Library Visits have included:

Preschool Visits

Day Book Club

After-School Christmas Craft

Family Day Care Story-time

Final Story-time for 2018

Final Baby Bounce for 2018

Pals of the Pen

Knit and Knatter / Needles and Thread

Housebound Service

Book Deposit Stations

Year 12 CAF’s students Library Refurbishment The library refurbishment is on track, with the lengthy preparation process underway. Quotes are being obtained for all facets of the work and the new year will see works commence.

Library Statistics November 2018

219 Information Requests

342 Customer Service Requests – this figure includes 66 technology assists

440 Computer Usage

114 requests for Wi-Fi only (i.e. mobile device users)

50 adults attended regular programs in the library

298 children and parents/carers attended regular children’s programs in the library

154 Visitor Information Requests – this figure relates to normal library opening hours only and includes 17 phone requests

23 Programs were held in the library during November

NB. The above statistics are collected manually and may not be exact. However, the above figures are deemed a fair and reasonable indicator.

2036 library items issued (1989 last month)

101 library items reserved (112 last month)

7 new members (14 last month)

NB. The above statistics are collected electronically and are accurate.


9.20 Development Services Activity Report


DP17 Lead the community by example with sustainable, effective, efficient and customer focused practices

Author: Manager Development & Regulatory Services

Planning and Building Activities Update Development Applications The Council has received the following Development Applications during November 2018:

Application No

Address Development

DA2019/0031 86-88 Cassin Street, Wyalong Storage shed

DA2019/0032 51 Gladstone Street, West Wyalong Verandahs & carport

DA2019/0033 47 Park Street, West Wyalong Storage shed

DA2019/0034 314 Langes Lane, West Wyalong Land use for a manufactured home

DA2019/0036 77 Neeld Street, Wyalong Verandah & carport

DA2019/0037 4 Northcott Street, West Wyalong Garage

DA2019/0039 190 Showground Road, West Wyalong

New amenities building

DA2019/0040 11 Charles Place, West Wyalong Storage shed

DA2019/0041 10 Golden Street, West Wyalong Enclosure of an existing carport

DA2019/0043 26 Park Street, West Wyalong Demolition of an existing storage shed

DA2019/0044 10 Tallimba Road, West Wyalong Storage shed

DA2019/0045 12 Tallimba Road, West Wyalong Temporary accommodation buildings

DA2019/0046 12 Tallimba Road, West Wyalong Temporary accommodation buildings

The following DA applications were approved during November 2018:

Application No

Address Development Approval Date

DA2019/0008 Lillas Lane, West Wyalong Industrial shed/factory 29/11/2018

DA2019/0018 20-22 Neeld Street, Wyalong New retail outlet 16/11/2018

DA2019/0020 3 Charles Place, West Wyalong Storage shed 1/11/2018

DA2019/0022 11 Charles Place, West Wyalong Single storey dwelling 1/11/2018

DA2019/0025 13 Pines Lane, Ungarie Storage shed 1/11/2018

DA2019/0027 20 Victory Street, West Wyalong Storage shed 1/11/2018

DA2019/0029 9 Ethel Street, Ungarie Storage shed 16/11/2018

DA2019/0030 9 White Street, West Wyalong Alterations & additions to dwelling

16/11/2018

DA2019/0031 86-88 Cassin Street, Wyalong Storage shed 29/11/2018

DA2019/0032 51 Gladstone Street, West Wyalong Verandahs & carport 15/11/2018

DA2019/0033 47 Park Street, West Wyalong Storage shed 29/11/2018

Complying Development Certificates


The Council has received the following Complying Development Certificate Applications during November 2018:

Application No Address Development CDC2019/0002 100 Monash Street, West Wyalong Installation of solar panels

CDC2019/0003 72 Ungarie Road, West Wyalong Installation of a 9.99kw solar photovoltaic system

CDC2019/0004 416 Pearses Lane, Quandailla Inground swimming pool

Heritage Conservation Activities During November the Heritage Advisor continued to work with the Presbyterian Church to address significant structural issues. A meeting was also held with a local business owner to discuss a potential awning replacement. The Heritage Advisor also met with the new owners of the Naradhan Woolshed and the owners of the old flour mill.

Regulatory Activities Update

Dog Attacks There was one (1) dog attack reported during November 2018 which resulted in two (2) dogs being declared dangerous. Companion Animal Seizure and Impound Activities November 2018

Seizure Activities: Dogs Cats

Seized 3 0

Returned to Owner 0 0

Impounding Activities: Dogs Cats

Animals in pound at start of month 2 1

Incoming Animals

Transferred from Seizure Activities 3 1

Dumped at Pound 0 1

Surrendered 2 3

Total Animals in Pound 7 6

Outgoing Animals

Released to Owner 0 1

Euthanased 0 1

Rehoused 5 2

Sold 0 0

Died at Pound 0 0

Stolen 0 0

Escaped 0 0

Total Animals Leaving Pound 5 4

Animals in Pound at end of Month 2 2


9.21 Assets & Engineering Services Report


DP9.1Responsibly manage asset renewal and maintenance for current and future generations DP9.4 Maintain parks, ovals and recreational facilities to approved standards

Author: Director Asset & Engineering Services

1. Council Crew Locations Week Commencing 12.11.2018

Graders - Waarbilla Road – Wet Grading - Buddigower Lane – Resheeting/Wet Grading - Back Creek Road – Wet Grading - Alleena Road – Wet Grading - Leslies Lane – Drains and suckers

Gravel Carting

- Staniforths Lane – gravel carting

- Patch Gravelling – Blackstocks Area

Maintenance Crews (Bobcat/Backhoe) - Patching (emulsion) – Shire Sealed roads

2. Council Road Crew Locations Week Commencing 19.11.2018

Graders

- Waarbilla Road – Wet Grading - Staniforths Lane - Back Creek Road – Wet Grading - Meaghers Lane Area – Drains and suckers - Alleena Road – Wet Grading

Gravel Carting

- Reillys Lane – gravel carting

- Patching – Shire Sealed Roads - Patch Gravelling – Quandialla Road

Maintenance Crews (Bobcat/Backhoe) - Nil.

3. Sporting Fields and Ovals

- Maintenance to all sports grounds and surrounds. - Surrounds at McAlister Oval and Ron Crowe sprayed for broadleaf weeds. - Broken sprinklers replaced at Ron Crowe and Perseverance ovals. - Water leak repaired at Perseverance pump shed. - Irrigation checks carried out on all ovals and pump sheds. - Fertiliser put out on Ron Crowe and Perseverance ovals. - Line marking for touch, cricket and little athletics. - Broken seats and posts removed at Ron Crowe Oval. - Water leaks fixed at Ron Crowe Oval.