11.4 Corporate and Community Services...preparedness discussions, and the roll out of the DFES campaign called ‘fire chat’. 5. Pre season Bushfire Captains and Fire Control Officer

SHIRE OF AUGUSTA MARGARET RIVER ORDINARY COUNCIL MEETING 13 DECEMBER 2017

11.4 Corporate and Community Services 11.4.1 LOCAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE

MEETING MINUTES – 7 NOVEMBER 2017

Attachment 1 – Unconfirmed Minutes of the Local Emergency Management

Committee Meeting – 7 November 2017

Local Emergency Management Committee Meeting

MINUTES

FOR THE MEETING TO BE HELD

07 NOVEMBER 2017

COUNCIL CHAMBERS - 41 WALLCLIFFE ROAD, MARGARET RIVER

COMMENCING AT 4:30PM

Notice of Meeting

Please be advised that a meeting of the Local Emergency Management Committee will be held on 07 November 2017 in the Margaret River Council Chambers, commencing at 4.30pm. This meeting is open to members of the public. If you are unable to attend the meeting, please contact Katie Taylor, Community Development Officer. Contact Number: 9780 5233

Email Address: [email protected]

mailto:[email protected]

(LEMC) LOCAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE

A G E N D A

Please be advised that a Local Emergency Management Committee meeting will be held on Tuesday, 07 November 2017 in the Margaret River Council Chambers, commencing at 4.30pm.

ORDER OF BUSINESS

1.0 DECLARATION OF OPENING

2.0 ATTENDANCE / APOLOGIES 2.1 Attendance 2.2 Apologies 2.3 Non-attendance 2.4 Welcome to new members

3.0 PUBLIC QUESTION TIME

4.0 DISCLOSURE OF INTEREST

5.0 CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING

5.1 Confirmation of Minutes: 08 August 2017

6.0 MATTERS ARISING FROM PREVIOUS MINUTES 7.0 SHIRE OFFICERS AND DELEGATE REPORTS 8.0 GENERAL BUSINESS

8.1 Letter to local government CEOs re considerations for pre-season preparedness (Attach.1) 8.2 Approval of LEMC Arrangements (Attach.2)

9.0 MATTERS FOR WHICH THE MEETING MAY BE CLOSED (CONFIDENTIAL ITEMS)

10.0 CLOSE

(LEMC)

LOCAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE MINUTES

The Local Emergency Management Committee meeting was held on Tuesday, 07 November 2017 in the Margaret River Council Chambers, commencing at 4.30pm.

ORDER OF BUSINESS

1.0 DECLARATION OF OPENING Pam Townshend, LEMC chairperson opened the meeting at 4.33pm.

2.0 ATTENDANCE / APOLOGIES 2.1 Attendance

Roma Boucher : Department of Communities Marion Hutton : Department of Communities Gary Yates : Water Corporation David Holland : Chief Bush Fire Control Officer Marie Tweedie : WACHS –SW Bernie Feenan : WACHS –SW (Augusta Hospital) Patricia Macshane : Margaret River Volunteer Fire and Rescue Sargent Rik Lok : Augusta Police Sargent Brett Cassidy : MR Police Leisa Prangnell : St John Ambulance Aug & MR

Council Staff Members Pam Townshend : Shire President Nigel Anderson : Local Recovery Coordinator Chris Lloyd : Community Emergency Services Manager Kirstie Davis : Proxy Minute Secretary

2.2 Apologies

Jeremy Friend : DPaW Nathan Hall : Department of Fire and Emergency Services Lewis Hawkins : State Emergency Service Dave Hull : State Emergency Service Adrian Yates : State Emergency Service Brendan Jordan : St John Ambulance Augusta Mikayla French : St John Ambulance Margaret River Martin Dearlove : Department of Communities Mark Hunt : Department of Communities Emily Lewis : Department of Agriculture and Food Gary Evershed : CEO Annie Riordan : Director Corporate and Community Services

2.3 Non-attendance

Paul Higginson : Volunteer Marine Rescue – Augusta Vikram Cheema : Office of Emergency Management Peter Scott : Surf Life Saving

2.4 Welcome to new members Welcome to Bernie Feenan, WACHS – SW

Through the Chair we would like to commend Ian Earl for his commitment over the last 4 years to the role, it is an important role and this needs to be recognised.

3.0 PUBLIC QUESTION TIME Nil

4.0 DISCLOSURE OF INTEREST Nil

5.0 CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETING Confirmation of Minutes: 08 August 2017 Add an Apology for Roma Boucher to the previous minutes Moved – Gary Yates (with amendment) Seconded – Marie Tweedie

6.0 MATTERS ARISING FROM PREVIOUS MINUTES 6.1 Please refer to the attached Action List

7.0 SHIRE OFFICERS AND DELEGATE REPORTS 7.1 Chris Lloyd – Community Emergency Services Manager

1. Terms of Reference for LEMC – Amendment

The current Instrument of Appointment and Delegation states that the LEMC meetings ordinary meetings of the Committee shall be held on the first Wednesday of each month in February, May, August and November each year. Previous meetings have actually been held on the second Tuesdays of each of these mentioned months. LEMC to agree on the amendment.

2. Proposed Revocation of Westplan Dambreak

Delegates were requested to provide support for or against the revocation by COB Tuesday 5th September 2017. Email was sent with revocation letter and Westplan Dambreak. Whilst there were no responses of delegates being against the revocation some important concerns and suggestions were provided. These were collated and a letter to SEMC was sent from the Shire’s CEO, Gary Evershed on October 13, 2017.

3. State Risk Project Workshops held for Local Government

• The Shire attended and completed four risk workshops

• Flood and storm on the 29th August 2017

• And Human Epidemic and Electrical Supply/power disruption 3rd October 2017

A further Risk Workshop to be organised for the Hazard of Bushfire. The idea is to organise a special meeting in December to complete the risk workshop with the LEMC

delegates and have additional expertise and subject matter experts on hand if required. A credible scenario to be developed to complete the risk workshop. Maybe December during the day, for a full day. Open to suggestions for people in attendance to complete the Bushfire Risk Workshop.

Discussion occurred about timing of the workshop with agreement on either December or January and a whole day would be preferred. This can be used as an annual table top exercise for the year, as a special meeting.

Action: Chris to propose dates.

Chris spoke about the future of the LEMC meetings and reminded everyone to send through reports prior, so we can run the committee in an improved format. E.g. exercise scenarios, discuss and communicate possible solutions. This was supported.

Discussing upcoming major events was also raised as an important component of the meeting as major events that come to town do affect hospitals, ambulances etc. E.g. events such as C2CMTB, Gourmet Escape. It was mentioned that the Surf Pro had a debrief, C2CMTB didn’t and it impacted the hospitals a lot. The Shire can provide events calendar through Cath Gardner) this has been happening through email with Cath in past but a more formal approach for this committee is required.

Action: Send Events calendar with the Minutes.

Chris also requested for people attending other LEMC meetings, to provide feedback to the group on what others are doing and he continues to welcome suggestions from members.

4. Rural Urban Interface & Incident Management Team exercise planning commenced for November 12th 2017

The RUI exercise and Shire IMT exercise will be run simultaneously on Sunday 12th November. This is the morning component, which aims to test both the Shire’s Volunteer Bushfire Brigades and DFES Volunteer Fire and Rescue Brigades our response capability and procedures.

The afternoon session from 1pm, is a street meet with the local community of Mansfield Avenue, Karri Loop and surrounds which involves property inspections, community preparedness discussions, and the roll out of the DFES campaign called ‘fire chat’.

5. Pre season Bushfire Captains and Fire Control Officer forum conducted on October 7th 2017

Over 30 shire Fire Control Officer’s and Volunteer Bushfire Brigade leaders attended the forum and FCO refresher at Witchcliffe Station. It was a great opportunity to review current procedures and revisit/discuss tools in preparation for this coming fire season. We also workshopped a couple of items that will improve current practices.

7.2 Nathan Hall - Department of Fire and Emergency Services Lower South West

• DFES 400 MHz Project As part of the recent 400 MHz spectrum changes completed by the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA), the Department of Fire and

Emergency Services (DFES) are required to make changes to UHF radio systems. To comply with regulatory changes, DFES must transition to new UHF channels (frequencies) known as Harmonised Government Spectrum (HGS) within timeframes prescribed by the ACMA. There will be some changes to the way DFES operate UHF in the future due to ACMA’s new radio licensing rules and regulations, the availability of replacement UHF channels and the future direction of operational radio communications. The 400 MHz Project will focus on meeting compliance and enhancing communications so DFES frontline staff and volunteers can continue to operate UHF radio safely and effectively during emergency response.

• WAFES Conference The annual WAFES Conference hosted by DFES will be held this year from the 8th to the 10th September 2017. Registrations for volunteer VFRS, BFB and SES have been called for through relevant associations. The conference will be another highlight of the year with attendees able to access a wide variety of tours, key note speakers and networking opportunities.

• Recent Incidents Minor storm damage across the region has been reported, following a series of cold fronts passing over the south west region of the state in recent weeks. Information on Storm Safety and how property owners prepare their properties can be accessed via https://www.dfes.wa.gov.au/safetyinformation/storm/Pages/default.aspx.

• Winter Safe Burning Presentation A winter safe burning presentation was conducted by the Shire and DFES in the Calkarri Estate during June to provide information to local residents in how to safely conducting fuel reduction burns during the cooler months in preparation for the fire season. There was a great turn out of around 35 member of the public.

• Capability Review DFES will be working with local governments to undertake reviews on brigade membership numbers and AIIMs capability for level 3 preformed teams, including LG employee support roles prior to the 2017/18 fire season.

• Bushfire Risk Management Coordinator DFES is waiting on the State Government to release its 2017/18 budget to ascertain the ability to extend the existing BRMC contract which will now look to cover three local governments, Nannup, Augusta Margaret River and Busselton.

• The Burning Question Forum

Western Australia is hosting The Burning Question Forum from the 8th to the 11 August which is based in the Capes region. Fire practitioners from around the state will be attending several workshops, a panel session and an interactive regional field trip which will allow mitigation techniques to be discussed and shared to assist in improving the delivery of this important practice across the country.

• Bushfire Mitigation Summit - 23 June 2017 On the 23 June 2017 a Bushfire Mitigation Summit was held in Mandurah. The purpose of the Summit was to guide future strategies to mitigate bushfires in Western Australia. The Summit provided a forum to hear stakeholders’ views on a range of bushfire management issues including the delivery of rural fire management.

https://www.dfes.wa.gov.au/safetyinformation/storm/Pages/default.aspx

The Summit was independently facilitated and provided an opportunity to have a wide range of stakeholders sit down together, discuss lessons learnt from previous bushfires, and develop ideas on a way forward towards achievable outcomes on bushfire mitigation. A wide range of ideas and issues were discussed, nevertheless the common theme was a desire to work together to reach the best possible outcomes to protect communities from bushfires. A summary of the Bushfire Summit is attached to the report.

7.3 Roma Boucher - Child Protection and Family Support, Department of

Communities

1. I have recently attended the following events: • State Risk Project workshops for Group A LG’s –

o Tuesday August 29th on Flood and Storm Emergency; and o Tuesday October 3rd on Electricity Supply Disruption and Human

Epidemic • Staff from our ES Unit in Perth and DESO’s from around the state had a pre-

season catch-up in Perth on 25 and 26th October, items reviewed were: o Exercise ‘Steak Knives’, based on an earthquake event in the city and

our capacity to deal with a large emergency event o Mindfulness workshop by HBF o AIIMS awareness training by Allan Riley, DFES o Review and discussion of the draft State Welfare Plan and Disaster

Information Support and Care Centre (DISCC) plan o General discussion items

• Natural Hazards Management Conference NHMC10 (2 days) and Recovery workshop in Perth.

2. In February this year, I included in my report information on the Equine Evacuation Centre Workshop and associated project summary and Map of Public Equestrian facilities in the Peel and South West Districts. At the NHMC, the winners of the Resilient Australia awards were announced and this project won the Local Government Award. 3. Martin Dearlove, Team Leader of our Busselton office is on extended leave at present and Mark Hunt, Team Leader is acting at the Busselton office until February 2018.

4. I am currently making arrangements for 3 Welfare Field Exercises for our SW offices:

• Collie office – SoBoyup Brook on Thursday 9th November • Bunbury office – SoDardanup on Tuesday 14th November • Busselton office – to be advised (hopefully between now and Christmas)

7.4 Nigel Anderson – Local Recovery Coordinator

• Internal Ready Response Exercise planning underway Budgeted funds for preparedness, tying this into an exercise and internal mechanism to refresh what happens in this space, pre planning for is currently underway. This

can tie into December event and include as many other agencies as we can. We also used Busselton and Nannup which worked well as part of this exercise. Roma suggested to invite neighbouring governments.

7.5 Brett Cassidy - AMR Police

• The Margaret River Police had had no major incidents to report but have participated in the Risk Management Project with the shire since the last meeting. Our focus is now on planning for the upcoming bush fire season. No significant road crash, minor house fires, business electrical faults, nothing serious.

• Attending Risk Workshop in October.

• Bushfire Seminar with DFES next week, with all subdistricts in region on Tuesday to discuss strategies moving forward.

• Met with C2CMTB, to let organiser know that he didn’t abide by traffic management set in place. Need to satisfy criteria in future for event to continue. Significant number of injuries that needs to be noted. Possibly go back to old format next year, cutting off first day that cross Perimeter Road due to construction timelines.

• Leavers: 120 kids in this Shire, Riverglen Chalets and Margaret River Resort, well managed, no issues. As part of Liquor Forum we are implementing Volunteer Liquor Agreement, to limit liquor made available during 20-24 November. Have moved away from road blocks and using the Leavers Tent in Dunsborough and wrist band management system. Feedback coming back each year is positive. Trend is moving back towards conservative leavers practices. Having something for them to do here is the key, we are fortunate that this is being managed by Dunsborough and Busselton with support from Margaret River services.

7.6 David Holland – Chief Bush Fire Control Officer

• Operational Incidents/issues: o 15 Responses since last meeting (plus two escaped controlled burns since

report was provided two days previously, potential to include permit burning a week earlier than usual)

o Most were for escaped burn offs / calls of concern from public / illegal road side burning

o Two out of Shire deployments, Tom Price and Yallingup (very different firefighting up there, don’t have bush that we have in SW, good experience)

• Training Courses conducted: o Introduction to Fire Fighting o Bush Fire Fighting o WAERN radio basic o First Aid Training (30 members completed) o FCO Course o FCO Refresher & Pre-season Leaders Forum

• Procedures: o Hazard Reduction Burning on Council Land Policy is currently under

development o Rural Urban Interface and IMT exercise planned for 12th November in

West Margaret River.

o Street meet and Fire Chat also planned for the residents of this area. • Appliances / Facilities:

o Gracetown extensions are complete. o Cowaramup, Kudardup and Rosa Brook Brigades were successful in

gaining ESL and Shire funding for Station upgrades. Currently going through Planning and Building approval process.

o An audit has been carried out on the Emergency Water Supply tanks that are reserved for brigade use and maintenance is being organised.

• Administration: o Unfortunately, we were unable to complete any of our Autumn burns due

to the late vintage and the issue of smoke taint. The burns that are appropriate for spring will be carried over and the burn program finalised by September.

o The CESM has tabled the Shire Reserves 2017 Spring Burn Program at a recent Council meeting. Plans have commenced to conduct these burns over the coming weeks with several Shire Reserves have already been recently burnt. DFES and PAWS assisted the Shire to complete a relatively small, but very complex burn of approximately 4 ha last week in Riverslea.

o We understand that the BRPC role has been filled - The Shire is now sharing the Bushfire Risk Planning Coordinator role with Shire of Nannup and City of Busselton and the role will now be hosted by City of Busselton. Andrew Hunt from Dunsborough. Contract position for the next 6 months.

o The CESM and I attended the Prescribed Burning Forum held in Busselton in August. This was a worthwhile event and we hope that some of the positives and opportunities that were identified in the workshops are followed through for implementation. Included bus tour, Mowen Rd, looking at prescribed burns, through to Gracetown. Provided sharp focus that we can easily become complacent with what we already have, specifically Gracetown. Continued efforts in fuel management needs to be ongoing focus.

o The CESM and I were also invited, along with several others from our region, to participate in a study on Prescribed Burning Best Practice Guides/Case Studies for Jarrah South. This was facilitated by OBRM for Mr Paul de Mar from GHD who has prepared similar case studies previously on behalf of AFAC for Jarrah North East and Banksia Woodland planned burns. The purpose of this study is to be able to provide information for understanding of why a planned burn is appropriate, how to plan it, how to conduct it and then review the successes or weaknesses of the burn.

• Other: o The Shire was very pleased to be able to host the Minister for Emergency

Services, the Hon Fran Logan, for a series of gatherings with local Brigades in August. At one of the meetings he presented Mr Peter Clews from Cowaramup BFB with a certificate of recognition for 60 years of service and still going strong!

Acknowledgment from Pam Townshend that the burn at Riverslea was well done especially in managing the residents and environmental impacts. And she understands this is a case by case basis.

7.7 Marie Tweedie - WACHS –SW

• Impact from Cape to Cape bike ride 18 presentations. Was the first aid tent was utilised enough?

• Augusta MPS BPZ work has commenced onsite with large load of green waste (illegal dumping) Action: gate now locked and signage erected to discontinue

practice. Visit for both sites (Margaret River and Augusta) by DFES this Thursday to mitigate further risks. Is this monitored?

• Training on both sites continues for Code Red and yellow for ALL staff. (88% completed for Augusta MPS and 78% completed for Margaret River).

• Table top code brown will be conducted by Chris Davey from DPMU early December with medical input in preparedness for upcoming busy season. Sift and sort, can alternate between locations (Busselton, Margaret River).

• Augusta Adventure Race: minimal impact to Augusta MPS. • Review of clinical waste with tender process commencing this month with the aim at

reducing clinical waste and increasing recycling for both sites. • Leavers commencing 20th November in Dunsborough. • Presentations are already up for this time of year. • Facebook page Wallcliffe FB is doing a great job in this space and reaching young

demographics.

Dave Holland mentioned that this is not the Emergency WA Facebook however it is very valuable, administrators are doing a very good job with monitoring and controlling. We also are implementing Emergency AUS, a phone app where you can insert location, select distance you would like to be alerted, and notifications are sent straight to your phone.

7.8 Patricia Macshane – Margaret River Volunteer Fire and Rescue

• AGM held last October. Executive positions are still held by previous members • The group attended only one call out since the last LEMC meeting. Incident was a

minor motor failure • The MRVMR stall at the MR Ag Show proved to be successful with three new

potential members • The group assisted AUVMR again the year with the Adventure Race. • MRVMR are in the process of producing an information pamphlet and sticker for

boaties that will hopefully clarify any confusion with which number to ring in an emergency. The group would also like to see signage at Main Break reflecting this. People are reluctant to dial 000, need to know why. Working with DFES and considering radio communications. Stickers alongside brochures will be developed. Signage at Mainbreak would also be useful. Nothing here at this point, who to call in an incident.

• Action: Chris to determine if this is a Shire role regarding what signage is needed and whose responsibility this is.

• We are heading towards upgrading our electronic equipment on our 7.5m NAIAD, which will increase our SAR capabilities

• The group is planning a flare training night to be held potentially on Wed Dec 6th. Training Officer Jock Salkeld will be liaising with local police, water police as well as notifying the public through the Public Notice section of the local news paper. This training is not open to the public, it will be at Gracetown.

• We will potentially be carrying out night training in the Geographe Bay area, in Dec.

• MRVMR launched its Facebook page last month and encourages everyone to have a look.

• Recently completed trainer Assessor course, implementing new pathways • Radio training, three participants to attend. • When we talk about scenarios down the track, need to include our assets also.

7.9 Emily Lewis - Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development

• The Shire of Augusta-Margaret River remains in the Quarantine Area Notice for tomato potato psyllid (TPP) updated on the 1st November 2017. Attached is the

latest industry update for this response, which has transitioned to a management response (from eradication) and the associated webpage

• The Western Australian Viticulture Industry Biosecurity Manual has also recently been published https://www.agric.wa.gov.au/plant-biosecurity/western-australian-viticulture-industry-biosecurity-manual This document complements the previously released Western Australian Viticulture Industry Biosecurity Plan and the e-surveillance for pests and diseases in the grape industry project aiming to boost the early detection of exotic pests and disease incursions and enhance the biosecurity preparedness within the WA grape industry https://www.agric.wa.gov.au/plant-biosecurity/e-surveillance-pests-and-diseases-wa-grape-industry

• The agency also has resources available to support landholders suffering from drought, dry seasons, fire, floods, cyclones and frost. Our website provides more information https://www.agric.wa.gov.au/climate-weather/dry-season-resources

• Information about managing livestock in a fire is also on the website https://www.agric.wa.gov.au/animals-and-fire-emergencies/managing-animals-fire

• Primary producer assistance is also facilitated by DPIRD for recovery of communities whose social, financial and economic well-being has been severely affected by a natural disaster. The State Government has established the Western Australia Natural Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements (WANDRRA), providing a range of eligible measures designed to help those within disaster affected communities. The WANDRRA is administered by the Office of Emergency Management (OEM). Relief packages are designed to assist in meeting the needs of primary producers whose assets or primary production business has/have been affected by a disaster for which the WANDRRA have been invoked. Assistance is not provided as compensation for damage/losses sustained, or as a disincentive to self-help by way of commercial insurance and/or other appropriate strategies of disaster mitigation. Support is offered on a needs basis. The primary producer assistance measures are administered by the Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development (DPIRD) in conjunction with the OEM (telephone +61 (0)8 6551 4034 or +61 (0)8 6551 4035)

• Of interest to regional landholders may be the recent release of a new virus to control rabbits, https://www.agric.wa.gov.au/news/media-releases/virus-release-reminder-control-rabbits RHDV1 K5 is a strain of the Rabbit Haemorrhagic Disease Virus, which was nationally released in March of this year to target Australia’s most destructive agricultural pest animal.

7.10 Lisa Prangnell – St Johns Ambulance

• New additions, no disruption during building phase. Thanks to Augusta Hospital. .

• 26 volunteers at present, 20 operations. Filling rosters with no major issues

• 90 call outs between July – Oct

• Augusta Adventure Race uneventful for emergencies. 1 crash. SSR pulled many swimmers, paddlers with wind in second day was challenging.

• Radios and mobile and WAENs in all vehicles

• Continuing as Chair, AGM last week

• Sundowner 1 Dec for Emergency Services in our town, 5.30pm. Invite to follow.

https://www.agric.wa.gov.au/plant-biosecurity/western-australian-viticulture-industry-biosecurity-manual

https://www.agric.wa.gov.au/plant-biosecurity/western-australian-viticulture-industry-biosecurity-manual

https://www.agric.wa.gov.au/plant-biosecurity/e-surveillance-pests-and-diseases-wa-grape-industry

https://www.agric.wa.gov.au/plant-biosecurity/e-surveillance-pests-and-diseases-wa-grape-industry

https://www.agric.wa.gov.au/climate-weather/dry-season-resources

https://www.agric.wa.gov.au/animals-and-fire-emergencies/managing-animals-fire

https://www.agric.wa.gov.au/news/media-releases/virus-release-reminder-control-rabbits

https://www.agric.wa.gov.au/news/media-releases/virus-release-reminder-control-rabbits

MR Ambulance • Margaret River has 34 volunteers at present

• Events starting to ramp up again

• Preparing for leavers, entails high resources, MR Speedway is a big commitment, C2C – volunteers needed, small group that covers 905 of calls

• MR had bumper call out month, 113 call outs, 31 priority callouts. Very busy.

• 1000 jobs in a year already reached (1065).

• Gourmet Escape in 2 weeks 7.11 Gary Yates - Water Corporation

• DFES are putting out useful brochure ‘stay and defend’ checklists.

• Communications is strong that you cannot rely on Water Corp supply.

7.10 Delegate Reports not submitted – NIL

8.0 GENERAL BUSINESS

8.1 Letter to local government CEOs re considerations for pre-season preparedness (Attach.1) Delegates noted.

8.2 Approval of LEMC Arrangements (Attach.2)

Delegates noted. Pam Townshend acknowledged the high quality of the arrangements.

9.0 MATTERS FOR WHICH THE MEETING MAY BE CLOSED (CONFIDENTIAL ITEMS) NIL

10.0 CLOSE 5.48 pm

ACTION LIST

ACTION DATED

ACTION ITEM ACTION UPDATE STATUS ACTIONING OFFICER

10.11.15 NDRP Grant Funding

23/02/16: Nathan suggested we consider applying for NDRP funding for back-up power for welfare centres, shire offices and depot. This would be a 50/50 contribution with Shire funding. Motion: Shire to investigate funding opportunities for alternate power supplies for key shire buildings including identified welfare centres. Moved: Danny Mosconi Seconded: Brett Cassidy. If anyone has any other grant funding ideas, please send through to Nathan. 10/05/16: Following the February 2016 meeting the CESM has looked into possible funding opportunities for the addition of alternative power supplies to key Shire buildings. From discussions with one of the Shires electrical contractors it has been suggested that several transportable generators be purchased over a period of up to 8 years that can be hard wired into the relevant Shire building. Due to the costs the CESM has requested that the Shire consider a 220kva portable generator, load bank and sea container for storage in the 2016/17 budget at a cost of around $62,500. Hopefully this can receive a 50% subsidy via a grant such as the NDRP or Royalties for Regions. 08/11/16: Funding has been made available from the

On Going ALL

Shire to facilitate the funding of the following items; • Electronic Fire Danger Rating Signs (x2). • 50% funding towards a 220kva portable

generator, load bank and sea container for storage.

On the SEMC Website it advises that the NDRP grant funding will be opening soon and once the grants are open I will be applying for the additional funding for the generator and two more additional fire signs. 14/02/16: Funding has been made available from the Shire to facilitate the funding of the following items; Electronic Fire Danger Rating Signs (x2). 45kva portable generator, load bank and trailer. Unfortunately, due to a change in the NDRP grant process I am unable to secure additional funding through the grant system to increase the amount for equipment for these two projects. As such the above items will now be purchased which will go towards mitigating the risks of bushfire and prolonged power outage within the Shire. There is the possibility of working with the Water Corporation, Parks and Wildlife and DFES to retrofit the existing water storage tank at the 10-mile brook dam into an emergency water supply. This project is available for funding via the NDRP grant. 09/05/17: We are still currently awaiting the outcome of the Shire’s NRDP application for the retrofit to the existing water storage tank at the ten-mile brook dam into an emergency water supply. This project will be undertaken in conjunction with the Water Corporation, Parks and Wildlife and DFES to provide an alternative water source for the Shire during bushfire events.

08/08/2017: NDRP Grant application was unsuccessful for utilising the existing infrastructure at the 10-mile brook to gain an additional an emergency water supply. All agencies are still in discussion about whether this project is feasible.

7/11/17: Funding was made available from the Shire to facilitate the funding of the following items;

• Electronic Fire Danger Rating Signs (x2). – delivered 08/08/17, now need to install with main roads approval (1 to be installed at Cowaramup).

• 45kva portable generator, load bank and trailer.

NDRP Grant application was unsuccessful for utilising the existing infrastructure at the 10-mile brook to gain an additional an emergency water supply. DPaW will not commit to taking on the asset.

(Jeremy not in attendance to update any further)

Gary Yates – Water Corp will end up demolishing asset, DFES not in it for stability of the asset but that is their management.

Chris – happy to collate further feedback prior to demolition from members

09.05.17 Fire Danger Rating Signs The Shire of Augusta Margaret River has put in an order for two electronic fire danger-rating signs, which have been identified to be located at strategic locations on Caves Road and Bussell Hwy on the outskirts of the Margaret River town site.

On Going

These new Fire Danger Rating Signs will be a great source of information for the community and tourists to help them make an informed decision in relation to bushfires and other emergencies. Purchased 08/08/2017: Electronic Fire Danger Rating Signs (x2). – delivered 08/08/17, now need to install with main roads approval

07/11/2017:

See previous action feedback

Back-up power: we have one trailer, plan is to 45kva portable generator, load bank and trailer. Funding for future trailer will be required.

07/11/17: Chris to propose dates for tabletop

exercise.

Chris Lloyd

07/11/17: Send Events calendar with the Minutes.

Katie Taylor

07/11/17: Chris to determine if this is a Shire role regarding what signage is needed at Mainbreak regarding emergency contacts and whose responsibility this is.

Chris Lloyd


11.4 Corporate and Community Services 11.4.2 UPDATED INSTRUMENT OF APPOINTMENT AND

DELEGATION FOR THE LOCAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE

Attachment 1 – Updated Instrument of Appointment and delegation for the

Local Emergency Management Committee

AUGUSTA MARGARET RIVER LOCAL EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE

Shire of Augusta Margaret River 41 Wallcliffe Road, Margaret River 6285 | T (08) 9780 5255 | F (08) 9757 2512 | amrshire.wa.gov.au

Augusta Margaret River Local

Emergency Management Committee

Instrument of Appointment and Delegation 13 December 2017

NAME

The Committee shall be known as the Augusta Margaret River Local Emergency Management Committee (LEMC).

ROLE OF THE COMMITTEE

To ensure that effective local emergency management arrangements are prepared and maintained for the Shire of Augusta Margaret River and perform any other emergency requirements as specified under the Emergency Management Act 1995. OBJECTIVES OF THE COMMITTEE

a) To advise and assist the Shire of Augusta Margaret River in ensuring that Local Emergency Management Arrangements are established for its district

b) To liaise with public authorities and other persons in the development, review and

testing of the Local Emergency Management Plans c) To assist with the preparation and approval of the Augusta Margaret River Local

Emergency Management Arrangements and submit such plans to the District Emergency Management Committee (DEMC) and State Emergency Management Committee (SEMC) for approval.

d) To revise at least annually the Augusta Margaret River Local Emergency

Management Plan with a total review of the Local Emergency Management Plan every five years

e) To assist in the preparation of emergency management operating procedures for

application in the Shire of Augusta Margaret River f) To ensure appropriate testing and exercising of the Local Emergency Management

Arrangements g) To prepare an annual report of the activities of the Committee for submission to

SEMC h) To provide assistance to the Local Emergency Coordinators and Lead Combat

Authorities during emergency management operations i) To carry out such other emergency management functions as directed by SEMC or

prescribed by the Emergency Management Regulations 2006.



MEMBERSHIP

The Council appoints to the Committee those ex-officio representatives whose titles appear below. Membership of the Committee shall, unless otherwise specified, be for a term ceasing a the date of the Local Government election in the year the Shire’s local government elections are held, after which time the Council may appoint members for a further term. Membership of the Committee shall be:

The President of the Shire of Augusta Margaret River, or Deputy Shire President if the Shire President decides not to take up the position

The Officer in Charge (OIC) of the Margaret River Police District or delegate(s)

The Officer in Charge (OIC) of the Augusta Police District or delegate(s)

The Officer in Charge of the Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service in Augusta & Margaret

River or their delegates

The Shire’s Chief Bush Fire Control Officer

The State Emergency Service (SES) Unit Manager or delegate

The Officers in Charge of the St John Ambulance Districts of Augusta & Margaret River or delegate

The Officers in Charge of the Shire’s Marine Rescue Services for both Augusta &

Margaret River or their delegates

A health representative from the Margaret River Hospital (Department of Health)

An officer from the Department of Community Services

A representative from the Department of Biodiversity Conservation and Attractions

A representative from the Department of Fire and Emergency Services

A representative from Water Corporation WA (South West Region)

A representative of Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development

A representative from Surf Life Saving WA

Representatives from other agencies as required. Representatives from the Office of Emergency Management, Baptist Care, Western Power, Main Roads WA, Margaret River & Augusta Chamber of Commerce and Industry and Margaret River-Busselton Tourism Association will be invited to attend and provide reports on their respective agencies. Council staff members including the CEO, Community Emergency Services Manager and the Manager Human and Community Services will provide advice and administrative support to the LEMC.



PRESIDING MEMBER

The Council shall appoint the Shire President as Presiding Member and the OIC of the Margaret River Police District as Deputy Presiding Member to chair committee meetings. The Presiding Member shall ensure that minutes of the proceedings are kept and that business is conducted in accordance with the Shire of Augusta Margaret River Standing Orders. The Local Government Act 1995 places responsibility for speaking on behalf of Council with the President, or the CEO if the President agrees. Individual members of the LEMC are to refrain from speaking publicly on behalf of the committee or Council, or to issue any form of written material purporting to speak on behalf of the committee or Council without the prior approval of the President. CONDUCT OF MEETINGS

Ordinary meetings of the Committee shall be held on the second Tuesday in February, May, August and November each year.

Written notice shall be given to all Committee members, at least 14 days prior to the meeting. Special meetings of the Committee may be convened:

a) By the Presiding Member

b) By written notice to all Committee members, such notice being signed by at least

four members of the Committee, giving not less than 7 days notice and stating purpose of the meeting

c) By the Council.

The time and venue of meetings will be determined by the presiding member or the Council having due regard to the general convenience of the Committee members. The Committee is established by the Council of the Shire of Augusta Margaret River under the powers given in section 5.8 of the Local Government Act 1995 and s38 of the Emergency Management Act 1995 and the guidance of the State Emergency Management Committee guidelines (Policy 2.5). Notice of meetings, quorum requirements of 50% of members and all other matters pertaining to the conduct of the committee shall be carried out in accordance with the Local Government Act 1995. In the instance that there is more than one representative per membership (agency) attending the meeting, only one vote will be accepted. In the absence of the substantive delegate a proxy can be appointed to represent each member. All voting rights will be maintained. Only one vote per membership will be accepted. DELEGATED POWERS

The Committee is authorised to carry out various management functions under the Emergency Management Act 2005. The Committee has no delegated authority under the Local Government Act 1995. Recommendations of Committees meetings are to be presented to Council by Shire staff for noting or for consideration as soon as practicable after unconfirmed minutes of Committee meetings are available. The Committee shall not have the power to expend Council funds.



Document and version control table

Strategic outcome Goal 5: Effective governance and corporate leadership.

Responsible Directorate Governance

Authority of original issue Council

Date of original issue 13 September 2017

Contact officer Governance Officer

Date of next review September 2019

Document No. N139481

Version Date issued Brief description

1.0 13/9/2017 Initial Issue

1.1 13/12/2017 Change of meeting days


11.4 Corporate and Community Services 11.4.3 BUSH FIRE ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES

– 15 NOVEMBER 2017

Attachment 1 – Unconfirmed Bush Fire Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes

– 15 November 2017

Augusta Margaret River Bush Fire Advisory Committee Meeting

Minutes

For the meeting held Wednesday, 15 November 2017

Council Chambers 41 Wallcliffe Road, Margaret River

Commencing at 6.00pm

Augusta Margaret River Bush Fire Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes: 15 November 2017

Delegation: Conduct of Election of Presiding Member and Deputy Presiding Member Under s5.44 Local Government Act 1995 (LGA) the Chief Executive Officer hereby delegates to Chris Lloyd, Community Emergency Services Manager the exercise of powers and discharge of duties to:

a) Preside at the Bush Fire Advisory Committee meeting until the office of Presiding Member is filled and

b) Conduct the election of the Presiding Member and Deputy Presiding Member.

In accordance with Schedule 2.3 LGA. Authorised and signed by Acceptance of Delegate Authority

Authorised and signed

Gary Evershed Chris Lloyd Chief Executive Officer Community Emergency Services Manager Date: Date:


TABLE OF CONTENTS AGENDA SUBJECT LISTING Notice of meeting Order of business 1.0 Declaration of opening

2.0 Appointments

2.1 Appointment of Presiding Member 2.2 Appointment of Deputy Presiding Member

3.0 Attendance / Apologies / Non-attendance 3.1 Attendance 3.2 Apologies 3.3 Non-attendance

4.0 Question time for the public

5.0 Disclosure of members’ interests

6.0 Confirmation of minutes of previous meeting 6.1 Bush Fire Advisory Committee Minutes: 16 August 2017

7.0 Business arising from previous minutes 7.1 Action List

8.0 Reports from Shire Officers and Delegates

8.1 Chief Bush Fire Control Officer 8.2 Deputy Chief Bush Fire Control Officer 8.3 Shire Fire Control Officers 8.4 Community Emergency Services Manager / Shire Training Officer 8.5 Shire Executive Officer / Representative 8.6 Department of Fire and Emergency Services 8.7 Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service 8.8 Bushfire Ready Facilitators Report 8.9 Department of Biodiversity Conservation and Attractions 8.10 State Emergency Services

9.0 General business

9.1 2018 BFAC Meeting Dates – Chris Lloyd 9.2 Introducing the new Bushfire Risk Planning Coordinator – Andrew Hunt

(Hosted by City of Busselton) 9.3 Deployment to Tom Price – Rob Barnett 9.4 Site visit to the State Operations Centre and CommCen in Perth – Rob Barnett

10.0 Matters for which the meeting may be closed (Confidential Items)

11.0 Closure of meeting


1.0 Declaration of opening The meeting was declared open at 6.05pm by Chris Lloyd, Community Emergency Services Manager (CESM). The CESM welcomed Deputy Shire President, Julia Meldrum to the committee and the meeting, introducing her to the room.

2 Appointments 2.1 Appointment of Presiding Member

The Community Emergency Services Manager conducted the election of the Presiding Member in accordance with the Schedule 2.3 of the Local Government Act 1995. The Community Emergency Services Manager called for written nominations for the position of the Bush Fire Advisory Committee Presiding Member. The Community Emergency Services Manager received the following written nominations from:

Keith Scott nominated – David Holland Peter Brindley nominated – David Holland Simon Hanson nominated – David Holland Andrew Macfarlane nominated – David Holland Julia Meldrum nominated – David Holland Scott Hamilton nominated – David Holland

David Holland verbally accepted the nominations. The Community Emergency Services Manager called for further nominations. There being no further nominations, the Community Emergency Services Manager declared the nomination period to be closed. The Community Emergency Services Manager announced that David Holland had been nominated for the position of Presiding Member unopposed and as such, there was no requirement for a secret ballot to be held. He then declared that David Holland had unanimously been elected to the position. The Community Emergency Services Manager handed the meeting over to the Presiding Member, David Holland to conduct the election for the Deputy Presiding Member at 6.06pm.

2.2 Appointment of a Deputy Presiding Member The Presiding Member conducted the election of the Deputy Presiding member in accordance with Schedule 2.3 of the Local Government Act 1995.

The Presiding Member called for nominations for the position of the Bush Fire Advisory Committee Deputy Presiding Member. The Presiding Member received the following written nominations from:

Keith Scott nominated – David Holland Simon Hanson nominated – David Holland Peter Brindley nominated – David Holland Andrew Macfarlane nominated – David Holland Julia Meldrum nominated – David Holland Scott Hamilton nominated – David Holland

Brett Trunfull verbally accepted the nominations. The Presiding Member called for further nominations. There being no further nominations, the Presiding Member declared the nomination period to be closed.


The Presiding Member announced that Brett Trunfull had been nominated for the position of Deputy Presiding Member unopposed and as such, there was no requirement for a secret ballot to be held. He then declared that Brett Trunfull had unanimously been elected to the position.

3 Attendance / Apologies / Non-attendance 3.1 Attendance Committee Members

David Holland : Chief Bush Fire Control Officer (CBFCO) Diane Holland : Witchcliffe Bush Fire Brigade Brett Trunfull : Deputy Chief Bush Fire Control Officer (DCBFCO) Keith Scott : Rosa Brook Bush Fire Brigade Rob Barnett : Wallcliffe Bush Fire Brigade Simon Hanson : Karridale Bush Fire Brigade Peter Brindley : East Augusta Bush Fire Brigade Andy McFarlane : Cowaramup Bush Fire Brigade Scott Hamilton : Kudardup Bush Fire Brigade Ray Gilchrist : Alexandra Bridge Bush Fire Brigade – 6.09pm Council Staff Members Julia Meldrum : Councillor Annie Riordan : Director Corporate and Community Services Chris Lloyd : Acting Community Emergency Services Manager

(CESM) Hannah Waters : Minute Secretary Observers Jeremy Friend : Department of Biodiversity Conservation and Attractions – 6.30pm Georgina Thiele : Bush Fire Ready Coordinator/South Gordon Temby : Bush Fire Ready Coordinator/North Andrew Hunt : Bushfire Risk Planning Coordinator

(Shire of Busselton) Nathan Hall : Department of Fire and Emergency Services

(DFES) – 6.07pm

3.2 Apologies John Matten : Molloy Island Volunteer Bush Fire Brigade Brian Combley : Molloy Island Volunteer Bush Fire Brigade (proxy) Danny Mosconi : Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES) Andy Thompson : Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES)

3.3 Non Attendance Peter Delfs : Gracetown Bush Fire Brigade

4.0 Question time for the public Nil

5.0 Disclosure of members’ interest Nil

6.0 Confirmation of minutes of previous meeting 6.1 Bush Fire Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes: 16 August 2017

RECOMMENDATION That the unconfirmed minutes of the Bush Fire Advisory Committee Meeting held 16 August 2017 be confirmed as a true and correct record of the meeting. Moved: Diane Holland Seconded: Simon Hanson

Carried: All


7.0 Matters arising from previous minutes

7.1 Action List

Date Action Item Action Update Status Actioning Officer

15/2/17 To be implemented from 2018 if brigades desirous

1. Expression of interest for members of any brigade who would be available mid-week to assist at a hazard reduction burn should the need arise, to be emailed to the CESM for collation.

2. CESM to compile database of volunteer fire

fighters who may be available to assist mid-week in the event of a hazard reduction burn.

Ongoing All brigades

16/8/17 Delegates to email Danny Mosconi if there is interest in attending a site visit to the State Operations Centre and CommCen in Perth. It would be an overnight trip viewing a day, night and morning shift at the centre. A maximum of two people can attend due to car capacity.

15/11/17: Brief of the site visit to be detailed in General Business item 9.4.

Complete Brigades

17/11/17 Brigades can forward any feedback about the new Permit to Burn books/template through to Mick O’Regan, Coordinator Rangers for collation and consideration.

FCOs


8.0 Reports from Shire Officers and Delegates

8.1 Chief Bush Fire Control Officer The past three months has seen a few incidents requiring Brigade attendance. These have been dealt with quickly and professionally by the Brigades involved. Most were for escaped burn offs / calls of concern from public / illegal roadside burning. One incident of note was the deployment of four of our volunteers to assist with the Tom Price fires. The Shire also sent the 12.2 to assist PaWS at a fire near Yallingup. We again held our annual Captains/FCO’s meeting at Witchcliffe on Saturday 7th October. My thanks to Chris for organising this event. The meeting was preceded by an FCO refresher course that was facilitated by Nathan Hall from DFES. Thank you to all of the FCO’s who attended the refresher and also to the other Brigade members who came along to get an understanding into the roles and responsibilities of an FCO. Chris, Brett and I attended a ROAC meeting in October, which was held in Bunbury. This meeting is a joint meeting between the Lower South West and South West regions which is held once a year. I will forward on the minutes as soon as I receive them. I was invited to meet with the Minister for Emergency Services, Hon Francis Logan, when he toured our region in August. I made the minister aware of the submission that was made to OEM regarding the Bush Fire Summit. Our Shire generally supports all efforts to reduce fuel loads within our Shire and noted that our Volunteer Brigades are willing to be involved. However, our Shire strongly believes that there needs to be provision made to employ a Bushfire Mitigation Officer whose role is to implement the BRM Plans and to undertake all the necessary planning, prescriptions, community consultation. I made the Minister aware that the Shire does not support an independent Rural Fire Service. The Minister met with volunteers from a number of our Brigades and attended a number of events that had been organised, including a presentation to Peter Clews from Cowaramup BFB for 60 years of service. One of the events that he attended which had not been organised, was a fire in the Wallcliffe area. Mr Logan admitted that he did not have a background in emergency services and was very impressed by the way the Brigades operated. He appreciated the professionalism of all the volunteers that he met during the time he was here. I attended the annual West Australian Fire and Emergency Services conference held in Perth. The theme this year was “Changing Lives” and we heard from several speakers on a range of subjects. Two of the presenters were ex-military officers who shared their experiences on mental health as well as traits of good leadership. One of the highlights for me is always the Fire Fighting Awards ceremony. This year the Argyle/Irishtown BFB from Donnybrook won the team award for their work in community education and preparation, particularly in the Gwindinup subdivision. I attended a forum prior to the WAFES conference on Public Information during incidents. One of the topics discussed was the length and repetitious nature of some of the warnings and the need to find a better way to inform the public of actions that need to be taken during an incident. It was acknowledged that the public will generally not spend very long reading through a warning if it does not specifically apply to them. DFES media will be putting effort into designing a warning that is more targeted. Chris and I were invited, along with several others from our region, to participate in a study on Prescribed Burning Best Practice Guides/Case Studies for Jarrah South. This was facilitated by OBRM for Mr Paul de Mar from GHD who has prepared similar case studies previously on behalf of AFAC for Jarrah North East and Banksia Woodland planned burns. The purpose of this study is to be able to provide information for understanding of why a planned burn is appropriate, how to plan it, how to conduct it and then review the successes or weaknesses of the burn. I will ensure that a copy of the study will be made available to all once it has been completed. I have been fortunate enough to have attended all the Brigade AGM’s that have been held this year. I really enjoy meeting with you all as it gives me an opportunity to get


feedback on any issues that are of concern to your brigade members as well as being able to pass on my thanks for their efforts. Chris, Brett and I met with representatives from the Wine Industry Association to discuss planned burning during autumn and reducing the possibility of smoke taint. There is acknowledgement from both sides of the importance of each party being able to carry out business as usual. There is still a way to go with these discussions! Please keep yourselves safe and thank you for your dedication and support.

8.2 Deputy Chief Bush Fire Control Officer I attended a meeting with the Margaret River Wine Association to discuss mitigation works during the growing season. All of the groups are talking and communicating better and things are progressing slowly. Future meetings will be set up with the intent of resolving the issue by next autumn. Well done to everyone involved in the burning that has recently occurred on private land and within the Shire. In the eyes of the public, it has been very successful.

8.3 Shire Fire Control Officers Molloy Island

Nothing to repot Wallcliffe

We have enrolled three new members Training is focusing on RUI and mentoring members in stepping up to perform

roles other than firefighter at incidents Brigades are reminded that the training facilities at Wallcliffe now consist of

Diesel / Electrical pump complete with Booster Cabinet and Hydrant just like you would find at all wineries

Remember a fire at a winery on your patch is in fact a Bush Fire and your brigades should know how to connect even if they are Bush Fire Brigades. To use the facility contact Gordon Temby

Mitigation burns are progressing well with special emphasise on strategic burns in Shire reserves. Regrowth after the Prevelly fire has been targeted. Many thanks to Chris Lloyd for his assistance

Brigade members turned on a real fire for Minister for Emergency Services Fran Logan, timing is everything

The brigade supported the volunteer effort in Tom Price , which was food for thought as to how different fires are fought in the North

Kudardup

We have had three call outs o Grosse Road in Karridale o Another at the end of Glenarty Road in Kudardup o And a recent one on Hillview Road in Augusta

The Lions club have paid for a thermal imaging camera that will be kept at the Augusta Fire Shed and it will be available for use by other brigades

The process for our shed extensions for the new truck has started We have our new light tanker and are impressed with the diesel pump Training has been well attended, as has the availability of crews for callouts

Gracetown

There have been no call outs Training continues on a fortnightly basis The shed extensions have been completed with our gear and vehicles moved

back in. All members are happy with the extra space and facilities Two members and LT attended the RUI exercise Regular burning off of the brush pile continues

East Augusta

There have been no call outs


One controlled burn has been carried out on private land The green waste was burnt with the assistance of Molloy Islands 3.4 and

Kudardup 2.4 thank you to both brigades for your assistance There is an ongoing issue with the work platform radio on the 1.4 2 FF completed plantation FF course in Bridgetown FCO visited ComCen in Cockburn thanks to Danny Mosconi for organising

this visit FCO and Captain attended forum in Witchcliffe Training is now being carried out fortnightly with weekly maintenance runs

Cowaramup

We have had two call outs Training continues each Thursday with some new people turning up The brigade has conducted three burns, all seemed to burn very well

(everything is very dry already ) We helped out with the Shire burn at the back of the town by the river. Thanks

to the guys from the brigade that helped out, its good to see all the brigades working well alongside other agencies and learning some new skills

In late October we were asked if there was any volunteers who would like to help out in Tom Price. Two of our guys put up their hands pretty quickly. Thank you to Tim Young and Mick Lickel

We are still working through a few proposals on the best way to move forward on our shed extension with much help from Chris. We hope this won’t take too long and things will move quickly and achieve the end goal

Karridale

This season has restarted and training occurs each fortnight on Thursdays We have three new members

Witchcliffe

The BFB has not been called out since the last BFAC. The VFRS has had four calls since August including a fully involved house in Augusta and the most recent call to a fire on the roof of Watershed Winery related to their solar PV array

Both of our FCO’s have been busy with phone calls from landowners and visits to properties on request. In addition to lots of advice we have assessed eight properties for controlled burns. Three of these did not require burning by the brigade, two cannot be carried out at this time as they require work by the landowners first, and one needs to be done in Autumn. We have completed the remaining two burns including 10 hectares of the reserve in Witchcliffe. I have a further two landowners awaiting a visit from me. The burn in the reserve was very successful

Training continues regularly but we have modified our meeting times to be fortnightly on Fridays for all brigade members rather than running specific bush fire or VFRS sessions. Additionally we are providing one Tuesday each month from September to March for anyone that finds Fridays difficult

The station hosted the recent FCO and Captains Pre Season Meeting as well as the Intro to Fire Fighting course and a DFES Mental Health First Aid Course

It is lovely to share our training facilities and venue with all brigades We again had a group of five members travel to Perth to attend the WAFES

Conference We are scheduled to attend the Gourmet Escape Village at Leeuwin Estate

on the weekend 18-19 November and visit the Margaret River Independent School in Forest Grove on 14 November to deliver Bush Fire Lessons to the whole school in three age related sessions. It’s always fun to do these events

Rosa Brook

Membership drive has netted five new members. All have completed basic training and induction and all of them have been out to various prescribed burns

We have had four callouts but nothing serious. Brigade has completed five prescribed burns successfully


On Friday, 4 November, a Bush Fire Ready Night was held at the Station and was well attended

We have as yet not had the chance to carryout Drager and burn over revision training for Brigade.

Rosa Brook station was broken into via the back wall (removal of a sheet of iron) last month with loss of our Engel car fridge and a large Battery charger which was only discovered missing when it was needed. Which leads us to the onerous job of having a list of plant and equipment kept and updated on a regular basis. This is a work in progress.

Rosa Brook has a membership list of 31 current members that have attended either a callout or training in the last 12 months, we consider our brigade to be in a good position to handle the coming summer.

Alexandra Bridge

Nothing to report

8.4 Community Emergency Services Manager / Shire Training Officer Prevention Mitigation Works Controlled Burn Completion summary (Shire Reserves):

1. Riverslea, Margaret River R45095 – 4ha, Very High Risk – 37 volunteers, Multi-agency (PaW, DFES, LG Bushfire Brigades)

2. Cowaramup, Curtis St R48838 – 0.7ha, High Risk 3. Roxburgh Rd, Margaret River R18838 – 2 parcels totalling 2ha, Very High Risk 4. Wooditch Rd, Prevelly – 0.7ha, High Risk 5. Organised by DFES and Witchcliffe BFB - Bussell Hwy/Redgate Rd – 10ha,

Extreme/Very high Risk (includes parcels of UCL managed by DFES) 6. Sheridan Rd, Margaret River (Road Reserve) 0.4ha

Preparedness Training Pre-season FCO/Captains forum was conducted on 7 October 2017, Witchcliffe Station. 30 participants and was a good refresher and information sharing session prior to this fire season. Intro to Firefighting conducted on 28 October at Witchcliffe Station with 14 members successfully completing. Rural Urban Interface and IMT exercise conducted on 12 November 2017. The morning was about testing the Incident Management Team (consisting of LG and DFES volunteers) and also the Rural Urban Interface response and property assessment procedures. This was well attended and included participants from both the Volunteer Bushfire Brigades and Volunteer Fire and Rescue Brigades. Thank you to all for making it a great event and hopefully everyone gained something from it. The area chosen to conduct this exercise is an Area of Community Engagement Focus (ACEF) with the assistance of Steph De Bruin, DFES Community Engagement Officer. Approximately 70 community members attended and participated in the street meet and property walks. Karridale have put forward an initiative to develop a training forum/workshop for Brigade trainers. The plan is to trial this initiative and develop a format that benefits the trainers across the brigades. This will also encourage cross brigade training sessions and promotes information sharing between brigades.

PPE Orders Have arrived and are currently being distributed to the Brigades. Parts of the orders were handed out at the Captains/FCO forum.

The new BR5 helmets have been ordered, please continue to phase out the old style helmets. New members are also receiving BR5 helmets once training completed.


Local Government Grant Scheme (LGGS) and Shire Budget The below items have been sourced from relevant suppliers. Most brigades should start receiving these items over the coming weeks prior to end of December 2017. Approved Plant & Equipment items >= $1,200 to $5,000 include:

East Augusta, Cowaramup & Rosa Brook – Static Pumps Kudardup & Rosa Brook – Shelving All Brigades – Breaker Bar sets East Augusta, Alexandra Bridge – Televisions Witchcliffe – Water Transfer Pump & Pressure Tank Molloy Island & Alexandra Bridge – Refrigerators Molloy Island – Split System Air con including installation Gracetown – projector Epsom – Whiteboards x 2

We received confirmation towards the end of August that LGGS will fund extensions to Kudardup, Cowaramup and Rosa Brook fire stations. These are currently going through the Shire’s procurement process as well as building and planning requirements. Emergency Water Tanks An audit on all of the Shire’s emergency water tanks has been completed and I am currently going through the report to prioritise repairs or upgrades to the tanks. Some of this work should commence over the next week or two. The opportunity to utilise the 10 Mile Brook Dam infrastructure has been knocked back by DBCA. The infrastructure is on their land and unfortunately, it has been assessed as a liability to the Department. As such, it appears the infrastructure will now need to be stripped down and removed. Response Since the August BFAC meeting the Shire’s brigades have responded to 16 incidents. A breakdown of these brigade responses are attached to this report. A few of these were attributed to False Call – good intent burn offs, some others were suspicious road reserve fires. Thank you to the brigades who have promptly provided their incident reports, can I please encourage all brigades to submit their reports as soon as possible following an incident to assist with:

Local Government Grant Scheme (LGGS) applications Insurance and incident reporting Suspicious fire /Arsonist reporting

A review of Boundaries for FCO/Brigade areas was completed however, there were no changes. There are still plans to develop A3 flip books of close up maps for each brigade to identify information such as hydrants, water sources, critical infrastructure or special risk assets and other useful details. Laminated means there is the opportunity to draw over the top of it and send fire shapes or other useful information to your brigade and/or the IMT. Recovery The Shire Recovery team has undergone pre-season training with Red Cross and has also received information from DFES about the new ‘fire chat’ campaign. Please remember that peer support services from the Shire and DFES are available should a member from your brigade or their family require assistance. Mental Health illness is a reality and only through the support of family & friends (our volunteering community included) can people needing help start down the path to recovery. Remember to ask…….. ARE YOU OK? General Thank you for those brigades who have completed and assisted in controlled burning on Shire Reserves. We had a narrow window again this spring and some really tough burns were completed.


Also, thank you to the members who provided their skills and own time to go and assist with the fire’s in Tom Price recently.

As you probably know, I was appointed to the Shire’s CESM position. Thank you to all those who have supported me, and been very patient while acting in the role and I am continually learning, it has been a great experience so far!

Wallcliffe Delegate: When will members who missed the cancelled training be able to enrol again?

CESM: The training course will be run again next year.

8.5 Shire Executive Officer / Representative

Thank you to all the volunteers who came out to assist with the Spring Burn program

The CESM presented the Spring Burn program to the previous Council and they were all very supportive

I attended the Street Meet held Sunday, 12 November and noted that it was well attended and received by the community. Everyone was engaged and I would like to thank everyone involved in this great initiative

8.6 Department of Fire and Emergency Services

Fire Chat This bushfire season Fire Chat will be the new ‘branding umbrella’ for community engagement and communications around bushfire. This will be supported by the Are You Ready Campaign. Fire Chat replaces DFES previous bushfire communications known as Prepare. Act. Survive.

A suite of new bushfire planning and preparation tools have been developed, consisting of 5 minute Fire Chat, and supported by Your Bushfire Preparation Toolkit, which are two simple steps aimed at helping residents to be better prepared for bushfire.

The 5 minute Fire Chat asks people living in a high bushfire risk area to have a fire chat to discuss three key questions with family and friends or to discuss with their neighbours if they live alone:

When will you know to leave? Where will you go? Which way will you go?

If this is all people do, they will be more prepared than doing nothing. This approach is easy for all people to achieve. After people have answered the three questions above, they are then asked a disruptive and thought-provoking question:

That’s a great first step to protect your family. However have you considered what you would do if you are at work when a fire threatens?

The intent of this question is to drive them to the take the next step, which is to seek out their Bushfire Preparation Toolkit. The Toolkit is available in hard copy but can also be downloaded at https://www.dfes.wa.gov.au/firechat/Pages/default.htm

Fact Sheets with further bushfire preparedness information can also be found on the website.

State Bushfire Exercise 2017 The DFES Lower South West region organised and conducted a level 2 bushfire scenario based in Donnybrook on the 17 October. The exercise was coordinated at a state level that saw multi agency IMTs across two regions simultaneously manage large scale bushfires whilst working within the guidelines of Westplan Fire. Very successful exercise with participating personnel able to gain valuable pre-season experience and training.

Bushfire Risk Management Coordinator The State Government has released its 2017-18 budget, which has included funding to extend the existing BRMC contract for approx. 18 months, which will now cover three


local governments, Nannup, Augusta Margaret River and Busselton. Andrew Hunt has recently been appointed to this position.

Strike Force Vulcan Strike Force Vulcan is a successful WA Police Bushfire Arson Intervention Strategy that will again be active this summer and is expected to come online in December. If any volunteer fire fighters note anything suspicious they can use the online reporting form at https://extranet.dfes.wa.gov.au/sites/volunteers/members/Pages/ArsonReporting.aspx Members of the Shire staff or public can report suspicious behaviour to Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000.

Western Australian Cyclone and Southern Bushfire Season Synopsis The Department of Fire and Emergency Services has released the 2017/18 Western Australian Cyclone and Southern Bushfire Season Synopsis which focuses on;

A ~60% chance of an above average number of tropical cyclones in waters off the northwest coast (average number is five).

Likelihood of around two coastal cyclone impacts. Significant risk of at least one severe tropical cyclone coastal impact during

the season There is potential for above normal bushfire activity within the southern parts

of the Swan Coastal Plain, the Warren region and the majority of the Southern Jarrah Forest.

A copy of the synopsis has been attached to this report. Attachment 8.6.1.

IMT/RUI Exercise and Street Meet On the 12 November a joint IMT and Rural Urban Interface (RUI) exercise was conducted at the Margaret River SES facility which saw volunteers from the BFS and VFRS undertake an operational IMT exercise to combat a fire running from the west of the Bussell Hwy towards private properties and agricultural farm land. During this exercise a RUI drill was conducted around the Mansfield Rd area with a total of 62 participants involved. Following the exercise a community street meet was held which saw great support from the community. Two property walks were conducted which was supported by the inclusion of the new Fire Chat publication.

8.7 Volunteer Fire and Rescue Service Not in attendance

8.8 Bushfire Ready Facilitators Report Bushfire Ready Facilitator – North DFES recently launched their new "Fire Chat" program that replaces Prepare. Act. Survive. This program has been recently rolled out by our Community Engagement Officer, Steph de Bruin, with meetings throughout the Shire including a recent meeting at the Wallcliffe Fire Station on Wednesday 25 October 2017. There will be another opportunity for brigade members to familiarise themselves with this new program at the Street Meet on Mansfield Avenue Margaret River after the RUI Exercise on Sunday 12 November 2017. Arts Margaret River are hosting a fund raising film night Friday, 5 January 2018 featuring, “Only the Brave”. All funds raised will go towards equipping the Shire Support Trailer. Please see Attachment 8.8.1. Bushfire Ready Facilitator – South During October disaster resilience education was carried out at Augusta Primary School with PP-year 1, years 2/3 and 4/5/6 classes in accordance to the new training package. Steph DeBruin held an introduction to fire chat at the Augusta CRC unfortunately many street coordinators were unable to attend due to school holidays.

https://extranet.dfes.wa.gov.au/sites/volunteers/members/Pages/ArsonReporting.aspx


Monthly themes disseminated from DFES Community Engagement office are being incorporated into Augusta’s community paper, The Pelican Post. Street Coordinators, bushfire members and members on the BFR contact list are also receiving these notices.


8.9 Department of Biodiversity Conservation and Attractions Fire season 2017/18 (as at 06/11/2017)

11 fires attended Conservation Employees at full employment for 2017-18 season

Prescribed burning (as at 06/11/2017)

Additional comments Completed 80km of maintenance slashing along strategic access and firebreak network within the LNNP Provided assistance to Shire Riverslea burn (2 trucks, 1 officer) With the shuffling of districts, we now have six trucks manned out of the Margaret River Depot. Our response capacity is now improved after

being down in numbers for the past couple of years however we don’t have any qualified machine operators in Margaret River We have been monitoring burns for re-ignition over the past couple of weeks. Creek lines that previously haven’t burnt are now burning willingly You should be able to see our appliances now as we are in the process of combining our tracking system with DFES Please remember to ensure permit information is forwarded to us so if our Spotter picks up a fire it can be crossed referenced with the database

prior to us needing to contact the Shire. Just today a fire was spotted caused by welding and wasn’t the result of a permit

Rosa Brook delegate: Can you please pass along our thanks to your crews. They were really good and did a fantastic job

Burn ID Name of Burn Spring 2017 (Ha) Previously Treated (Ha) Total Prescribed (Ha) Shire/s

BWD_006 BRAMLEY_768 14 25 (Spring 2016) 154 Augusta-Margaret River

BWD_039 NELSON_134 578 77 (Autumn 2017) 2,716 Bridgetown-Greenbushes, Nannup

BWD_050 CAMBRAY BARRABUP 4,374 6,446 Nannup

BWD_062 FOREST GROVE_504 60 3,219 Augusta-Margaret River

BWD_067 BUTLER_127 5,374 5,374 Nannup

BWD_079 UPPER CAPEL 3,328 1130 (Autumn 2017) 6,031 Busselton, Donnybrook-Balingup

BWD_092 RYALL 204 848 Donnybrook-Balingup

BWD_102 McGREGOR MILLBROOK 11,413 17,553 Augusta-Margaret River, Busselton, Nannup

BWD_104 TREETON 77 79 Augusta-Margaret River

BWD_106 ABBA 634 771 Busselton

Treated Spring 2017 26,056


8.10 State Emergency Services No report

9.0 General business

9.1 2018 BFAC Meeting Dates - Chris Lloyd

The brigades were asked to note the following meeting dates, times and locations for 2018.

Date Time and Location

Wednesday, 21 February 2018 6.00pm Margaret River Council Chambers

Wednesday, 16 May 2018 6.00pm Augusta Council Chambers

Wednesday, 15 August 2018 6.00pm Margaret River Council Chambers

Wednesday, 21 November 2018 6.00pm Margaret River Council Chambers

9.2 Introducing the new Bushfire Risk Planning Coordinator – Andrew Hunt (Hosted by City of Busselton)

Andrew Hunt Bushfire Risk Planning Coordinator introduced himself to the committee. The Bushfire Risk Planning Coordinator position is 100% funded by DFES via a contract through the City of Busselton, expiring 30 June 2018. Andrew is based in Busselton three days a week, Margaret River one day a week and Nannup one day a week. Royalties for Regions have assessed bushfire risk management plans submitted by 15 local governments and are in the processes of allocating funds to progress them. It is anticipated that additional funding will be allocated to progress mitigation works detailed within the plan. Any questions can be forwarded through to: Andrew Hunt Bushfire Risk Planning Coordinator [email protected] 0427 479 856

9.3 Deployment to Tom Price – Rob Barnett Rob Barnett provided the committee with a brief on his experience assisting with the fire in Tom Price, adapting the style and approach due to the different conditions from Margaret River. He was part of a deployment from our Shire, which included Matt Holland from Witchcliffe along with Tim Young and Michael Lickel from Cowaramup.

The vehicles were all owned by Rio Tinto using their radio systems and channels

Due to conditions Rob’s crew had to change six tyres in the field over three, 12 hour shifts

A helicopter was provided by Rio Tinto for the whole event Robs’ crew were burning with the wind and didn’t come across the fire, they

were back burning the whole time, assisted with a flame thrower and covering 40km of the road front on foot

Crews had to be mindful of rough terrain, Aboriginal heritage sites and unexploded shots

A PVC pipe carrying water was destroyed during the fire which had huge financial implications



9.4 Site visit to the State Operations Centre and CommCen in Perth – Rob Barnett

Rob Barnett provided the committee with a brief on the site visit to CommCen in Perth. The visit spanned all three shifts, which each have four operators and one controller on duty. The operators all seem to be understanding of the volunteers they are liaising with and have several screens and maps to reference for each call. One of the issues raised was why the operators do not use vehicle location to assist with tracking. It quickly became clear that due to the number of appliances with tracking devices there could be up to 1,200 names on the screen at any given time, which makes seeing exact detail impossible. One of the changes being implemented is the 1800 number printed on the “Permit to Burn” is going to be changed to a landline number. Historically the 1800 number was provided for the brigade’s use only and should not be used by the public as it has a higher priority. The new permits will have a number for the public to use and calls will go on a waitlist as brigade/agency calls are attended to first.

9.5 Fire Danger Rating Signs – Chris Lloyd

The electronic fire danger rating sign has been installed at the truck bay on Bussell Highway on the entry into Cowaramup. As of today, the sign is operational and there will be information distributed for the purpose of community education in the coming weeks. There is the capability to display messages on the sign. For more information, please contact me. A second sign will be installed in Margaret River over the next couple of weeks. Please see Attachment 9.5.1 for information on the fire danger ratings produced by DFES. Karridale Bush Fire Brigade raised concerns about the increasing amount of work expected by the volunteers to keep the brigades running, including training, operational requirements, maintenance on top of attending fires. The committee discussed the reluctance of some volunteers to step up to assist with operational matters outside of attending the fires. It is increasingly difficult to attract members who are not time poor and can assist with the running of the brigades. There do seem to be a few key members in each brigade that keep everything running.

9.6 Permit to Burn – Simon Hanson The committee discussed difficulties surrounding the new Permit to Burn forms/books including the extraordinary amount of information it contains, the length of time now required to issue a permit and the confusion permit recipients are expressing. The CESM advised that the form was created from a supplier template. Brigades can forward any feedback about the new Permit to Burn books/template through to Mick O’Regan, Coordinator Rangers for collation and consideration. The DCBFCO reminded brigades that burns carried out by permit holders not complying with any of the listed conditions can be shut down. The committee discussed ways to make conditions clearer to permit holders such as highlighting the numbers and adding conditions.

10.0 Matters for which the meeting may be closed (Confidential Items)

Nil

11.0 Closure of meeting The meeting was closed at 7.00pm

2017-2018WESTERN AUSTRALIAN CYCLONE AND SOUTHERN BUSHFIRESEASON SYNOPSIS

WA Cyclone and Southern Bushfire Season Synopsis 2017/18

With many areas of Western Australia predicted to experience above normal bushfire activity and a likelihood of around two tropical cyclones impacting land, there is no part of Western Australia that can afford to be under prepared this upcoming season.

Over these past few years, significant changes have occurred across the areas of prevention, preparedness, response and recovery within DFES. The WA Cyclone and Southern Bushfire Season Synopsis 2017/18 site provides a snapshot on many of these initiatives and provides links to gain detailed information if required. The Synopsis is intended to complement the preseason planning, preparedness and training initiatives already completed or underway by those involved in emergency and response activities.

I highlight that emergency services activities are inherently dangerous and responder safety remains the priority this summer. Regardless of what systems or controls are in place, the potential of hazards and the threats to those involved constantly remains. Bushfire and cyclone events are unpredictable and we should all strive to keep ourselves and others safe.

Knowledge of a hazard and the means of reducing the risk to ensure our own safety and that of fellow responders and the community are critical elements of our business.

Your mental health is also important and I urge you to include a ‘wellbeing check’ into your routine. It is imperative we monitor not only ourselves but also that we take the time to look after each other. Please remember it’s ok to not be ok and that there are support systems available to you.

I trust you will find this site informative and a useful source of reference over the potentially challenging months ahead of us.

Lloyd Bailey AFSMDeputy Commissioner OperationsDepartment of Fire and Emergency Services

2 WA Cyclone & Southern Bushfire Season Synopsis 2017/2018

Contents

Southern Seasonal Bushfire Assessment 2017/18 ...............................4

Bureau of Meteorology ..........................................................................5

Climate Outlook for Western Australia October – December ................5

Tropical Cyclone Outlook for Western Australia 2017-18 .......................5

What’s new from the Bureau of Meteorology ........................................5

Incident Management ............................................................................8

Directive 3.8 – Severe Weather Events .................................................8

Operations Pre-Starts Book .................................................................8

T-Card Management ..........................................................................10

Automatic Vehicle Location ................................................................ 11

Restricted Access Permits ................................................................. 11

New RFA boards in WebEOC.............................................................12

Fire Chat ............................................................................................12

Safety ....................................................................................................13

Safety Circulars ..................................................................................13

Fatigue ...............................................................................................13

Heat Related Illness ...........................................................................14

LACES ...............................................................................................14

Red Flag Warnings .............................................................................14

Emergency Messages .......................................................................15

Burnover Survival ...............................................................................15

Deadman Zone ..................................................................................15

Wellness ................................................................................................16


Southern Seasonal Bushfire Assessment 2017/18

On top of persistent soil moisture deficits, the South West recorded its driest autumn for five years. This has resulted in forest vegetation experiencing additional water stress, with dead surface leaf litter and woody materials also continuing to dry out. Consequently, there is potential for above normal bushfire activity within the southern parts of the Swan Coastal Plain, the Warren region and the majority of the Southern Jarrah Forest.

A record wet 2016/2017 summer period for Western Australia, from the Midwest to the South Coast, has seen high perennial grassland fuel loads develop. However, the pattern of rainfall, recent bushfires, prescribed burning, cropping and grazing activities have constrained potential above normal grass fuel loads in many areas, with the exceptions being the Eastern Gascoyne, Pilbara and Eucla regions. Higher than average perennial grassland fuel loads, combined with drying soil moisture as summer approaches, have resulted in some areas in these regions being assessed as having an above normal fire potential for the southern bushfire season.

More detailed information is available from Bushfire and Natural Hazards CRC website at Southern Australia Seasonal Bushfire Outlook 2017

Figure 1: Southern Western Australia Seasonal Bushfire Outlook

Legend

Above Normal Fire Potential 2017

Normal Fire Potential 2017


https://www.bnhcrc.com.au/hazardnotes/38

https://www.bnhcrc.com.au/hazardnotes/38

Bureau of Meteorology

Climate Outlook for Western Australia October – DecemberTowards the end of each month, the Bureau of Meteorology (BoM) releases a three-month climate outlook for Australia. The outlook for October through to December has been released and the key points for Western Australia are:• Warmer three months likely for north western

parts of the state.• Near equal chances of wetter or drier three

months.

For more information visit: www.bom.gov.au/climate/

Tropical Cyclone Outlook for Western Australia 2017-18Summary of the Tropical Cyclone Seasonal Outlook for Western Australia:• A ~60% chance of an above average

number of tropical cyclones in waters off the northwest coast (average number is five).

• Likelihood of around two coastal impacts.• Significant risk of at least one severe tropical

cyclone coastal impact during the season.

It is important to note that the number of tropical cyclones is not a good indicator of the threat to communities. For most people, a bad season is one when their community cops a direct hit or suffers a major flood.

Information on tropical cyclones, including current advices and track maps can be accessed through www.bom.gov.au/cyclone/.

What’s new from the Bureau of Meteorology

4 Day Fire Danger Ratings:

The BoM is producing four day Fire Danger Ratings, which can be found on the BoM’s website at: www.bom.gov.au/wa/forecasts/fire-danger-ratings.shtml

Cell Based Severe Thunderstorms Service for Perth and surrounding areas:

BoM is improving the Severe Thunderstorm Warning service for Perth and its surrounding areas by providing a cell based Severe Thunderstorm warning service. These warnings will be issued when individual severe thunderstorms are within range of the BoM’s weather-watch radars. They provide more specific information on individual severe thunderstorms. The warning includes a map depicting any existing thunderstorms and the forecast direction of movement for up to 60 minutes.


http://www.bom.gov.au/cyclone/

http://www.bom.gov.au/wa/forecasts/fire-danger-ratings.shtml

http://www.bom.gov.au/wa/forecasts/fire-danger-ratings.shtml


When issued, severe thunderstorm warnings can be accessed via the BoM WA warnings page: www.bom.gov.au/wa/warnings/.


http://www.bom.gov.au/wa/warnings/


Atmospheric Instability and the C-Haines Index

BoM introduced atmospheric instability into the DFES Operational Preparedness Briefings by adopting the C-Haines Index. The C-Haines Index provides a guide on whether pyro-cumulonimbus (pyro-cb) will develop. Pyro-cb is a fire generated thunderstorm which can have a significant impact on fire behaviour as it can cause:• Amplification of burn and spread rates.• Enhanced spotting from the lofting of

firebrands downwind.• Ignition of new fires from lightning strikes.

In recent fires, the Fire Dangers have been relatively low but the fires have become out of control due to the effects of pyro-cb. Of note, during the Waroona/Yarloop fire the Fire Dangers peaked in the Very High range however lightning and/or enhanced spotting from pyro-cb’s was identified as the weather driver for the fire to become uncontrollable.

More information on atmospheric instability and the C-Haines Index can be found HERE

Photo: Pyro-cb developing over the Lower Hotham fire, 2015.


/sites/volunteers/members/SharedRepository/teamsites/SeasonSynopsis/Shared Documents/Instability_and_the_C_Haines_Index.pdf

Incident Management

Directive 3.8 – Severe Weather EventsA new Directive, Directive 3.8 – Severe Weather Events, has been developed for the management of severe weather events for cyclones, floods and storms (it excludes tsunami and earthquakes). The Directive replaces the State Emergency Service Operations Instruction 7 and 9 and addresses the areas of Prevention, Preparedness, Response and Recovery.

The Directive is available here Directive 3.8 – Severe Weather Events

Operations Pre-Starts BookAll appliances, including those from Parks and Wildlife Service, CFRS, VFRS, VFES, and BFBs, should carry an Operations Pre-Starts Book (OPB). The OPB is intended to capture the minimal amount of critical information for a Crew Leader/Officer in Charge (OIC) from their initial briefing at the Control Point prior to commencing operations at an incident. The OPB is a summary of the current situation, strategies, tactics, communications and safety structures for the incident and is intended for use when no formal Incident Action Plan has been developed.

The OPB is to be used in accordance with SAP 3.2.C – Incident Action Planning


/sites/volunteers/members/SharedRepository/teamsites/SeasonSynopsis/Shared Documents/Directive 3.8 - Severe Weather Events.pdf

/sites/volunteers/members/SharedRepository/teamsites/SeasonSynopsis/Shared Documents/Directive 3.8 - Severe Weather Events.pdf

/sites/volunteers/members/SharedRepository/teamsites/SeasonSynopsis/Shared Documents/SAP 3.2.C - Incident Action Planning.pdf

Incident Management


Incident Management

T-Card ManagementT Cards, so called due to their ‘T’ shape, are used to maintain vision of all human and physical resources on the incident ground. This is vital given that the Incident Controller has ultimate responsibility for everyone and everything at the incident (essentially a workplace) that they are controlling. T Cards are mandatory for all personnel and should be used to keep track of equipment also. Certain parts of the T Card MUST be completed whilst other parts can be used as applicable.

Each appliance should carry a supply of T Cards and MUST submit a completed T Card to the Control Point (CP) prior to commencing operations. Details recorded on each T Card will provide the IMT with information required to plan for the following:• Welfare of all personnel, i.e. food and water,

rest breaks, shifts length, etc.• Crew changeovers and extra resource

requirements• Ability to contact individual personnel

Further information on T Cards is available in SOP 3.2.6 – T Cards and Incident Management Boards


/sites/volunteers/members/SharedRepository/teamsites/SeasonSynopsis/Shared Documents/SOP 3.2.6 - T Cards and Incident Management Boards.pdf

/sites/volunteers/members/SharedRepository/teamsites/SeasonSynopsis/Shared Documents/SOP 3.2.6 - T Cards and Incident Management Boards.pdf

Incident Management

Automatic Vehicle LocationThe Automatic Vehicle Location (AVL) system provides real-time visibility of vehicles and automated features that support enhanced crew safety.

AVLs have been installed in vehicles across the state, with portable AVL units deployed in regional locations to ensure Local Government, contractor and farm vehicles can also be monitored.

Click HERE to find out more information.

Restricted Access PermitsWestern Australia’s Emergency Management arrangements provide Incident Controllers the powers to prohibit movement within, into, out of or around an incident area, direct the evacuation and removal of persons from part or all of an area and close roads, access routes or areas of water in or leading to an incident area.

A Restricted Access Area is an area or specified properties within the incident area in which permitted people are allowed to return for a period of time for a specified purpose.

A Restricted Access Permit must be issued to allow entry, exit and potentially re-entry to the Restricted Access Area in accordance with the permit conditions.

The appointed Incident Controller has the authority to issue Restricted Access Permits to a variety of persons for a range of reasons and scenarios. The form and nature of the Permit is a decision for the IC, in consultation with the Local Emergency Coordinator (LEC) in attendance at the Incident Control Centre and may be in the form of:• An adhesive sticker to be affixed to a vehicle’s

windscreen• A paper permit• Department of Fire and Emergency Services

ID card

A “Restricted Access Permit Unit” can be established by the Incident Controller depending upon the nature and extent of the restricted access area and the number of persons likely to apply for restricted access permits.

Further information is available in SAP 3.2.D – Restricted Access Permits

An online video has also been developed, Traffic Management – Restricted Access Permits


https://extranet.dfes.wa.gov.au/sites/volunteers/members/avl/default.aspx

/sites/volunteers/members/SharedRepository/teamsites/SeasonSynopsis/Shared Documents/SAP 3.2.D - Restricted Access Permits.pdf

/sites/volunteers/members/SharedRepository/teamsites/SeasonSynopsis/Shared Documents/SAP 3.2.D - Restricted Access Permits.pdf

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gJLEtHm4oGU

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gJLEtHm4oGU

Incident Management

New RFA boards in WebEOCOn Friday 18 August 2017, DFES implemented a new system and process to manage Natural Hazards Requests for Assistance (RFAs). WebEOC was extended to provide an end-to-end solution for managing Natural Hazard RFA’s.

This change was managed though the All Hazard Incident Management System (AHIMS) program and will impact our people in the Communication Centre (COMCEN), State Emergency Service (SES) and Volunteer Fire and Emergency Services (VFES).

Benefits to COMCEN

• One system for capturing RFAs• A streamlined process• Increased system functionality• Integration with existing DFES systems

Benefits to Volunteer

• Increased operational agility and situational awareness

• Ability to manage RFAs at a unit level• Real time access to RFAs via the web based

system

Further information is available HERE

Fire ChatEveryone is encouraged to access the new bushfire planning and preparation tools for this bushfire season – the 5 minute Fire Chat and the Bushfire Preparation Toolkit, which were launched recently.

The 5 minute Fire Chat asks people in high bushfire risk areas to discuss three key questions with family, friends or neighbours.

This approach is easy to achieve, and if this is all people do, they will be better prepared. For those who then want to take the next step, there is Your Bushfire Preparation Toolkit.

Additional information is available HERE


https://extranet.dfes.wa.gov.au/sites/volunteers/members/SharedRepository/teamsites/ahims-r2/default.aspx

https://www.dfes.wa.gov.au/firechat/Pages/default.htm

Safety

Emergency Services type activities are inherently dangerous and regardless of the systems or controls in place, there constantly remains the potential of hazards and risk to those involved. Safety is a paramount objective and hazards need to be identified and risks assessed with appropriate decisions being based on knowledge, skills and experience.

Safety CircularsTwelve safety circulars have been issued relating to equipment and vehicles during 2017 so far. As safety is paramount, ensure you are aware of and comply with the critical messages within the safety circulars as applicable to you in your emergency response role.

The full list is available HERE

FatigueThe consequences of heat illness and fatigue within an emergency services organisation can result in adverse effects on the health status of responders attending the incident, an increased risk of accidents, reduced individual decision-making ability and influence the organisational capability to respond in a prolonged incident.

Keep a look out for each other – Check me, check you!

Fatigued people are often unaware that they are not functioning as well as they would be if they were not fatigued and this can make it difficult to diagnose.

Signs and symptoms:

• A desire to sleep• Delayed reaction times• Decreased alertness• Decreased motor skills• Reduced visual perception• Reduced situational awareness• Stress, frustration and irritability• Impaired memory performance• Impaired performance insight• Short periods of involuntary sleep (micro sleeps).

How to Reduce the Risk of Fatigue

• Try to get 7-9 hours of sleep per night• Eating healthy and balanced meals will give

you the energy you need to fuel your bodythroughout the day.

• Keeping physically fit and active• Psychological health DFES has a number

of strategies to help people experiencingpsychological issues including the WellnessBranch, Health and Safety Services,Peer Supporters and our EmployeeAssistance Program.

WaterAim for

8 glasses of water per day

SleepAim for 7-9 hours sleep each night

For more information see the DFES Health and Safety Services intranet page

NutritionEat every 3-4 hours

to maximise energy levels

Wellbeing Use EAP,

Peer Support Program,

Beyond Blue and talk to family

ExerciseFind 30 mins daily, 3 or 4

times a week

Don’t Drop the Ball on

Fatigue


/sites/volunteers/members/SharedRepository/teamsites/SeasonSynopsis/Shared Documents/SafetyCirculars.aspx

Safety

Tips for Battling Fatigue

• Exercise – During the summer months,consider conducting Physical Training in theafternoon. Do not exercise too hard duringyour Physical Training session so you are nottoo fatigued for the remainder of the day.

• Sleep – Ensure you have adequate sleep sothat you don’t become sleep deprived.

• Water – Try to limit the amount of electrolytedrinks that are being consumed and ensureenough water is being drunk.

• Nutrition – When leaving the Control Point forthe sector, ensure you have enough suppliesand snacks to sustain yourself if by chanceyou cannot get back to the Control Point fora meal.

• Wellbeing – Ensure you monitor yourselfand your team for any changes in physicalor mental health during busy days or after aparticularly challenging incident.

Heat Related IllnessHeat related illnes can kill, so it’s vital we all understand it.

Do Something Now! Immediate controls must be implemented to reduce the risk of injury.

An online video is available at Don’t Let Heat Stress Bring You Down

LACESNo one ever plans to be lost, disoriented or injured therefore it is vital to continually monitor the environment to identify the hazards and assess the risks as they apply to the tasks being carried out. On an incident ground, it is important to utilise LACES as a guide to help maintain situational awareness and mitigate the risks that may be faced.

DFES personnel and volunteers use the acronym LACES (Lookouts, Awareness, Communication, Escape Routes, and Safety Zones) to assist in maintaining personal safety at all times LACES Save your life – Check safety first

Red Flag WarningsRed Flag Warnings is a message system that provides a process to ensure critical information (such as weather changes) is confirmed as received to the lowest levels and understood by all personnel involved in an incident.

A Red Flag Warning should be issued when there is, or predicted to be, a significant risk to safety due to changed circumstances including:• Weather changes;• Hazardous materials;• Fire behaviour;• Structural integrity;• Equipment failures.

All DFES staff and volunteers should familiarise themselves with SOP 3.2.7 Red Flag Warnings.


https://youtu.be/cZYZK6xN22g

https://youtu.be/cZYZK6xN22g

/sites/volunteers/members/SharedRepository/teamsites/SeasonSynopsis/Shared Documents/LACES Poster - Generic.pdf

/sites/volunteers/members/SharedRepository/teamsites/SeasonSynopsis/Shared Documents/LACES Poster - Generic.pdf

/sites/volunteers/members/SharedRepository/teamsites/SeasonSynopsis/Shared Documents/SOP 3.2.7 - Red Flag Warnings.pdf

Safety

Emergency MessagesThe Emergency Message is only to be used in cases of extreme emergency. This definition could include a range of situations, for example, an emergency responder suffering illness/injury which requires urgent medical attention.

Emergency messages must be preceded by the words ‘EMERGENCY EMERGENCY EMERGENCY’ and must include the name and rank of the person sending the message.

Actions required by operational crews upon receipt of an emergency message may include the following, dependent on the incident and situation:• Acknowledge receipt of message• Confirm location and situation• Immediately notify the OIC/ComCen as

appropriate• Respond at the direction of the OIC as

required• Re-establish contact with sender

Further information is available in SOP 3.2.4 – Incident Communications.

Burnover SurvivalMost entrapments result from sudden changes in fire intensity and direction, usually following a wind change. Sheltering within the vehicle is the best option for mounted crews, although the window and door trims remain vulnerable to the effects of radiant heat. Ensure you utilise the appropriate burnover process for the particular crew protection installed in the vehicle.

Whilst the best process for ‘burnover’ is to avoid placing yourself and crew members in situations where they may occur, SOP 3.5.11 – Entrapment at Bushfire provides the procedure designed to ensure the safety of responders entrapped by an encroaching bushfire and subject to a likely burnover of their vehicle.

An online video ‘Burnover Blanket Use’ is available.

Deadman ZoneFirefighters working in parallel to a fire line are operating within an area where fire behaviour and environmental conditions may not be readily observable. Such areas are termed the dead-man zone where a wind change can rapidly alter the direction of fire spread and prevent firefighters engaged in parallel attack from withdrawing to a place of refuge.

The following resources are available to all DFES staff and volunteers to familiarise themselves with all relevant processes/procedures that are designed to minimise risk:• Operations Directive 3.5 – Bushfire• SOP 3.5.10 – Crew Safety at Bushfires

An online video ‘Deadman Zone’ is also available.


/sites/volunteers/members/SharedRepository/teamsites/SeasonSynopsis/Shared Documents/SOP 3.2.4 - Incident Communications.pdf

/sites/volunteers/members/SharedRepository/teamsites/SeasonSynopsis/Shared Documents/SOP 3.5.11 - Entrapment at Bushfire.pdf

/sites/volunteers/members/SharedRepository/teamsites/SeasonSynopsis/Shared Documents/SOP 3.5.11 - Entrapment at Bushfire.pdf

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UE-Akbx80JU&list=UU0qmgd-SfvkzCKK0hylWtTw

/sites/volunteers/members/SharedRepository/teamsites/SeasonSynopsis/Shared Documents/Directive 3.5 - Bushfire.pdf

/sites/volunteers/members/SharedRepository/teamsites/SeasonSynopsis/Shared Documents/SOP 3.5.10 - Crew Safety at Bushfires.pdf

http://www.entitymedia.com.au/dfes/deadManZone/deadManZone.wmv

Wellness

Working within an emergency services environment is both rewarding and challenging.

It is important you take a holistic approach to your wellbeing: physical, mental and spiritual. Making sure you take care of yourself now will help protect yourself from the negative impact of stress and mental health issues in the future.

Noticing when your wellbeing is affected can be very difficult. The way we think and act can become ‘normalised’ (i.e. your normal way of thinking/behaving), meaning you may not notice the early signs and symptoms of any possible problems.

Quick Wellbeing Check

Q. How am I sleeping?

Q. When is the last time I had a good laugh?

Q. Am I spending more time at home and less time socialising?

Q. Am I arguing with partners, family or friends a lot?

Q. Have my family or BGU members commented that I have changed?

Include a ‘wellbeing check’ into your routine. If your answers are negative, or seem to be getting more negative, seek help. The Wellness Branch or the free counselling service ‘PeopleSense’ are a good first step to get the information and help you need.

As part of the emergency services, it is likely that you will attend a critical incident (e.g. bushfire, cyclone, road crash, house fire, land/sea search) at some point. Attending such incidents can impact your wellbeing (e.g. changes in sleeping/eating patterns, more grumpy than usual, less motivation). These are normal and common reactions to an extraordinary situation and generally only last between 2 days – 4 weeks after the incident.

Please remember its ok not to be ok – there are support systems available to you that you can easily access. These include: personal support networks, the DFES Wellness Branch, the DFES free counselling service ‘PeopleSense’ (9388 9000), DFES Peer Support Officers, a General Practitioner or a Mental Health Professional.

Signs you may need help

• Physical Health – tired all the time, appetite/weight changes, headaches, disturbed sleep, sick and run down.

• Behaviour – not wanting to see family/friends, not completing day to day tasks, finding it hard to concentrate, getting upset over little things.

• Thoughts – “I’m a failure”, “it’s all my fault”, I’m worthless”, “life is not worth living”, “there’s no point in trying”.

• Feelings – overwhelmed, unhappy, guilty, indecisive, disappointed, no confidence, irritable, angry.

It is very important we monitor ourselves but also that we take the time to look after each other.

Note: Bush Fire Brigades are included in the DFES Wellness Branch response and can access all DFES Wellness Branch Services.


AUGUSTA MARGARET RIVER

VOLUNTEER FIRE FIGHTERS FUNDRAISER

Funds raised will go towards equipping the Shire Support Trailer

FRIDAY 5 JANUARY 7PM

MARGARET RIVER CULTURAL CENTRE CINEMA

Tickets: $20 Adults (includes a glass of wine or beer on arrival), $10 Youth Book: artsmargaretriver.com • 9758 7316

The Fire Danger Rating is based on the weather forecast and gives you advice about the level of

bushfire threat on a particular day

Fire Danger Rating What should I do?

12Fire Danger RatingsIf you live in a bushfire risk area you need to know what the Fire Danger Rating is for your area, monitor local conditions and keep informed. Understanding the FDR categories and what they mean will help you make decisions about what to do if a bushfire starts. FIRE DANGER RATING TODAY

VERY HIGH SE

VERE

EXTREME

CATASTROPHIC

HIGH

LOW-MODERATE

EXTREME

SEVERE

VERY HIGH

HIGH

LOW-MODERATE

You need to act now• Put your survival first and leave bushfire risk areas the night before or early

in the day – this is your best option.

• Act immediately – do not wait and see: leave now. avoid forested areas, thick bush or long, dry grass. take shelter if you cannot leave.

You need to get ready to act• Only stay with your property if you are prepared to the highest level. This means

your home needs to have been constructed to bushfire protection levels e.g. enclosed eaves, covers over external air conditioners, metal fly screens etc.

• You must be well prepared and able to actively defend your home if a fire starts. This means you have the right equipment and resources to put out fires around your home e.g. enough water supply, petrol/diesel portable pump, generator, protective clothing etc.

• If you are not prepared to the highest level, leaving bushfire risk areas early in the day is your safest option.

You need to be aware• Well prepared homes that are actively defended can provide safety.

This means you have the right equipment and resources to put out fires around your home e.g. enough water supply petrol/diesel portable pump, generator, protective clothing etc.

• Check your bushfire survival plan.• Monitor conditions.• Action may be required.• Leave if necessary.

CATASTROPHIC

For more information visit www.dfes.wa.gov.au or contact DFES Community Engagement 9395 9816

The information contained in this material is provided voluntarily as a public service by the Department of Fire and Emergency Services (DFES). This material has been prepared in good faith and is derived from sources believed to be reliable and accurate at the time of publication. Nevertheless, the reliability and accuracy of the information cannot be guaranteed and DFES expressly disclaims liability for any act or omission done or not done in the reliance on the information and for any consequences whether direct or indirect, arising from such act or omission. This publication is intended to be a guide only and viewers should obtain their own independent advice and make their own necessary inquiries. S

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Bushf i reFactsheet

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11.4 Corporate and Community Services 11.4.5 ACCESS AND INCLUSION PLAN AND POLICY 2018-22

Attachment 1 – Draft Access and Inclusion Plan Policy 2018-22 Attachment 2 – Draft Access and Inclusion Policy Attachment 3 – Draft AIP Implementation Plan Attachment 4- 2014-17 DAIP Key Achievements Attachment 5 – Community Engagement Summary

Access and Inclusion Plan (AIP) 2018 - 22

December 2017

Natural Connected Prosperous


Contents

Introduction 3 Chief Executive Officer’s message 3

Acknowledgement of Country 4

Executive Summary 5

Infographic - Our Community 7

Background 8 Our community 8

Multiculturalism 8

People with a disability 9

Role of Local Government 10

What is access and inclusion? 10

Planning for a more accessible and inclusive community 11

Progress since 2001 11

Identified challenges 14

Access and Inclusion Policy Statement 15 Our Objectives 16

Development of the AIP 16 Planning process 16

Community consultation process 16

Findings of the consultation 19

Responsibility for implementing the AIP 19

Communicating the Plan to staff and people with disability 19

Informing Agents and Contractors 20

Reporting on the AIP 20

Review and evaluation mechanisms 20

Strategies to Improve Access and Inclusion 21

Related Documents 30

This document is available in alternative formats upon request including in large and standard print, electronically by email, in audio on CD and on the Shires website at www.amrshire.wa.gov.au.

1 Natural Connected Prosperous


Alignment with Community Strategic Plan This document relates to Goal 2: Welcoming, inclusive and healthy communities and Goal 3: Ensuring sustainable development in the Community Strategic Plan.

Outcome 1: Diverse cultural values are respected and adopted Shire role

Strategy 1: Enable community and multicultural participation and promote a set of cultural values to residents and visitors

Partner Advocate

Outcome 3: Equal opportunities for all Shire role

Strategy 1: Ensure Shire facilities and services are accessible by all Lead

Strategy 2: Ensure green and public open spaces cater for a wide range of users including people with disabilities

Lead

Strategy 4: Enable accessibility to low cost services which will support families and early years development

Lead Partner

Outcome 2: Liveable, sustainable and well-designed places that are inclusive for all cultures and demographics

Shire role

Strategy 3: Develop and implement management plans for Shire facilities and projects so they are well designed, sustainable, have aesthetic appeal and are accessible by all

Lead

Goal 2: Welcoming, inclusive and healthy communities

Goal 3: Ensuring sustainable development




Strategic outcome Goal 2: Welcoming, inclusive and healthy communities

Responsible Directorate Community Planning and Development


Date of original issue [Council meeting date DD/MM/YYYY]

Contact officer Community Development Officer

Date of next review 2021

Document No. [Synergy Document No.]


1.0 [Council meeting date DD/MM/YYYY]

Council endorsement

Image: Participants at local art group, Artzability Inc.



Introduction

Chief Executive Officer’s message

As Chief Executive Officer, I am pleased to present to you our Access and Inclusion Plan 2018 – 22.

This new plan (formerly the Disability Access and Inclusion Plan) recognises that access and inclusion can affect many members of our community. This includes people with disability, their families and carers; people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds; Aboriginal Australians, the elderly; people experiencing financial hardships and people who experience other access and inclusion issues such as temporary illnesses or injuries or parents with prams.

When the Shire of Augusta Margaret River produced the Community Strategic Plan 2036 it recognised the following goals for our future:

An accessible and inclusive community is integral in achieving all of these goals.

This Access and Inclusion Plan 2018 – 22 details the Shire’s commitment to creating and fostering an inclusive and accessible community for all to live, work, play, invest and visit; whilst also recognising the importance of working in collaboration with the community to break down social barriers to inclusion and to drive sustainable change from within the community itself.

I look forward to working with Shire staff, key stakeholders and the wider community in implementing the strategies within this plan and in supporting the development of an inclusive and accessible community for everyone.

Gary Evershed

Chief Executive Officer

Key result area 1: Valuing, protecting and enhancing the natural

Key result area 2: Welcoming, inclusive and healthy communities

Key result area 3: Ensuring sustainable development

Key result area 4: Vibrant and diverse economy

Key result area 5: Effective leadership and governance



Acknowledgement of Country

The Shire of Augusta Margaret River would like to acknowledge that we are on Wadandi and Pibelmen country whose ancestors and their descendants are the traditional owners of this country.

We acknowledge that they have been custodians for many centuries and continue to perform age old ceremonies of celebration, initiation and renewal. We acknowledge their living culture and their unique role in the life of this region.

The Shire is committed to Aboriginal Australians sharing fairly and equitably in the Shire’s cultural, environmental and economic future.

Image: Kambarang Festival, 2016



Executive Summary

It is a requirement of the Western Australian Disability Services Act 1993 (amended 2004) that all local government authorities develop and implement a Disability Access and Inclusion Plan to ensure people with disability have equal access to services and facilities.

The Shire of Augusta Margaret River, and increasingly other local government authorities, recognise that many members of the community experience access and inclusion issues. These members include people with disability, their families and carers; people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds; Aboriginal Australians, the elderly; people experiencing financial hardships and people who experience other access and inclusion issues such as temporary illnesses or injuries or parents with prams.

To ensure all aspects of the Shires facilities and services are accessible and inclusive for all our community, the Shire has developed an Access and Inclusion Plan (AIP), which incorporates and expands upon the standard requirements of a Disability Access and Inclusion Plan (DAIP). This AIP fulfils the requirements of the Disability Services Act 1993.

Since the adoption of the previous DAIP 2014 – 17, the Shire has implemented many initiatives and made significant progress towards better access and inclusion. Through the 2014 – 17 DAIP, a total of 46 out of 48 strategies were either achieved or considerable progress made towards meeting them.

The AIP 2018 – 22 aims to leverage off achievements met through the DAIP 2014 – 17, and through consultation with internal and external stakeholders identify strategies for improvement in eight outcome areas. A wide community consultation process was carried out to identify potential barriers to access and inclusion. Overall the findings indicate that the community are satisfied with the direction and achievements of the Shire within their role in access and inclusion, however more progress is required in a number of areas, these being:

Improvements and monitoring of accessible parking bays, particularly in prime locations and busy tourist spots

Improvements and upgrades to older facilities and buildings Improving footpaths, seating and shading at Shire parks and reserves; Ensuring there are multiple ways of making a complaint and better communication on when

complaints/requests are resolved; Continuing to provide clear and concise information in a range of formats, as many people in

our community do not use computers or emails; Advocating for public transport to facilitate independence in accessing services, events and

public consultations; Ensuring officers are more proactive rather than reactive i.e. budgets for projects including

the cost of addressing access and inclusion in the grant application or project concept stages; and

Continuing to improve organisational culture that recognises access and inclusion issues and focuses on opportunities for improving access and inclusion during the annual business planning and budgeting cycles.

The Shire strives to continually improve access and inclusion for all its community members. The Shire interprets an accessible and inclusive community as one in which all community members can access and are welcomed to participate in all Local Government functions, facilities and services (both in-house and contracted) in the same manner and with the same rights and responsibilities as other members of the community.



The Shire of Augusta Margaret River commits to achieving the following eight objectives:

1. Improve the accessibility and inclusiveness of services and events for all our community; 2. Improve access to the Shire’s buildings and facilities for all our community; 3. Improve access to information that is inclusive to all our community; 4. Improve the quality of service delivered by the Shire of Augusta Margaret River; 5. Ensure the Shire’s feedback and complaints procedure is inclusive for all our community; 6. Improve opportunities for all our community to participate in public consultation undertaken

by the Shire; 7. Improve opportunities for all people with diverse abilities and backgrounds to obtain and

maintain employment with the Shire; and 8. Ensure the strategic management of the monitoring and review of the Access and Inclusion

Plan

Through community consultation, consultation with internal staff and the Community Access and Inclusion Reference Group, strategies to improve access and inclusion under the 8 outcome areas have been developed. An annual AIP implementation plan, which sets out specific actions and responsibilities across the Shire, has been established to deliver the outcomes of the AIP. The implementation plan is reviewed annually and a report submitted to the Department for Communities, Disability Services and progress presented in the Shire’s annual report.

The Access and Inclusion Plan (AIP) 2018 - 22 seeks to not only meet legislative requirements but also to strategically address access and inclusion issues to the benefit of all community members, making the Shire a people friendly

place to live, work and visit.





Background

Our community

The Shire of Augusta Margaret River is a rural municipality situated on the Indian and Southern Ocean coasts approximately 250 kilometres south of Perth in the south west of Western Australia. The Shire comprises valuable agricultural and natural resources while also being an important tourist destination.

The Shire’s population of 14,687 (2016 ABS Census) is spread across three townsites; Augusta, Cowaramup and Margaret River, and five villages; Gracetown, Karridale/Kudardup, Prevelly/Gnarabup, Rosa Brook, and Witchcliffe.

The population for the Shire of Augusta Margaret River has been increasing at an average annual rate of 3.7% during 2011 – 2016, with population expected to increase to around 17,500 in 2026.

In 2016, 50% of residents in the Shire were male and 50% female compared to the figures for Australia of 49.3% male and 50.7% female.

The median age in the Shire was 39 in 2016 compared to 36 in Western Australia and 38 in Australia. It is notable that the median age of residents in Margaret River and Cowaramup is less than the national and State medians while the median age of Augusta is 59, with almost two thirds of Augusta residents aged over 50.

Significant residential development has occurred within the Shire over the past ten years and this is expected to continue, creating a need to accommodate population growth. This growth will also influence the demographic and cultural profile of the Shire’s population. The Shire is therefore developing strategies to respond to emerging challenges related to managing demographic change in a growing community; and addressing increased demand for community infrastructure, facilities and services that are accessible for all.

Multiculturalism

The Shire has a diverse community and rich cultural heritage.

In the 2016 ABS Census 70% of Shire residents stated that they were born in Australia while 7.6% were born in England and 3% in New Zealand. Many local families have descendants who have been in the Shire since European settlement in the 1830s. People continue to migrate to the Shire, attracted by rural and alternative lifestyle opportunities and the stunning environment.

The Margaret River area is within the traditional lands of the Wardandi people. The Wardandi are the traditional custodians of the area generally between Bunbury and Cape Leeuwin and have a strong connection to the sea.

In 2016 the Shire had approximately 195 Aboriginal persons, comprising approximately 1.4% of the Shire’s residents (compared with 2.8% in Australia).

Image: Local resident at Australian Citizenship Ceremony



People with a disability

According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), 2015 Survey of Disability, Ageing and Carers almost one in five Australians reported living with disability (18.3% or 4.3 million people). With a further 22.1% of Australians having a long-term health condition but no disability.

The majority (78.5%) of people with disability reported a physical condition as their main long–term health condition. The other 21.5% reported mental and behavioural disorders.

More than half of those with disability aged 15 to 64 years participated in the labour force (53.4%), which is considerably fewer than those without disability (83.2%).

According to the ABS, the likelihood of living with disability increases with age; 2 in 5 people with disability were 65 years or older. It is estimated that by the age of 60 half of all men and women will have acquired some form of disability.

In the Shire of Augusta Margaret River, 401 people or 3.1% of the population reported needing help in their day to day lives due to a severe or profound disability. However the actual number of people with disability living in the community is likely to be higher. These statistics are based on self-reporting and a subjective assessment of the individuals own needs. Additionally there are a large number of people in the community who have a disability but do not require assistance with their daily activities and are therefore not captured in the census data.

There are currently 524 ACROD parking permit holders in the Shire, with almost 200 of those residing in Augusta. This suggests that at least 15% of Augusta’s population has a mobility impairment.

The number of Western Australians with disability is increasing, partly due to population growth in the state but also because the incidence of disability increases with age. Between 2006 and 2026 the number of people with disability in WA is expected to increase by around 190,000, due mainly to our ageing population. People may have a disability at any age, but the likelihood increases as people get older.

Dementia is the single greatest cause of disability in older Australians (aged 65 years or older) and the third leading cause of disability overall. There are currently 34,000 West Australians with dementia. Without a medical breakthrough, this number is projected to increase rapidly to 84,161 by 2036. This will put growing pressure on health care services, aged care facilities as well as increasing the number of unpaid carers in our community.

…by the age of 60, half of all men and women

will have acquired some form of disability

The number of West Australians with disability is

increasing…



Role of Local Government

It is a requirement of the Western Australian Disability Services Act 1993 (amended 2004) that all local government authorities develop and implement a Disability Access and Inclusion Plan to ensure people with disability have equal access to services and facilities.

Local governments, because of their broad mandate, play a vital role in the lives of their community members, including people with disability. Local governments are multi-functional, with extensive responsibilities and activities across asset management, human services and community development. In addition, local governments have the capacity to make policy choices at the local level.

The Shire’s Access and Inclusion Plan applies to the typical services and facilities provided by the Shire, including but not limited to:

Community planning and development Community infrastructure and asset

management Customer services Recreation centres, sporting facilities and

beaches Out of school hours childcare services Library and information services Planning and building services Environmental health and Ranger services Road maintenance and traffic management Waste management

Image: Augusta Margaret River District Library

What is access and inclusion?

Inclusion:

Access (sometimes referred to as universal access):

Refers to physical access to the natural and built environment – buildings, recreational facilities, parks, bushland, beaches and footpaths – as well as access to the Shire’s services, events and information.

Inclusion:

Refers to social inclusion, in that all people of diverse abilities and backgrounds have the opportunity to participate in a welcoming community.



Planning for a more accessible and inclusive community

Planning for a more accessible and inclusive community for people of all abilities has become an increasingly important area of focus for decision-making authorities in all spheres of government.

On 31 January 2017, the Commonwealth and Western Australian Governments signed a Bilateral Agreement for a nationally consistent, locally delivered National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) in Western Australia. The WA NDIS supports people with a permanent and significant disability that affects their ability to take part in everyday activities. By identifying support needs the WA NDIS aims to assist people with disability achieve goals in many aspects of their lives, including independence, involvement in community, education, employment and health and wellbeing.

The below legislation outlines the requirements for Local Government, assists in guiding better access for the future and makes discrimination on the basis of a person’s disability unlawful.

The Disability Services Act 1993 (amended 2004) Western Australian Equal Opportunity Act 1984 Commonwealth Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (DDA) Building Codes of Australia The Disability (Access to Premises - Buildings) Standards 2010

The Shire of Augusta Margaret River, and increasingly other local government authorities, recognise that many members of the community experience access and inclusion issues. These members include people with disability, their families and carers; people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds; Aboriginal Australians, the elderly; people experiencing financial hardships and people who experience other access and inclusion issues such as temporary illnesses or injuries or parents with prams.

To ensure all aspects of the Shires facilities and services are accessible and inclusive for all members of our community, the Shire has developed an Access and Inclusion Plan, which incorporates and expands upon the standard requirements of a Disability Access and Inclusion Plan. This Access and Inclusion Plan fulfils the requirements of the Disability Services Act 1993.

Progress since 2001

The Shire has been committed to facilitating the inclusion of people with disability through the improvement of access to its facilities and services for many years.

The Shire adopted its first Disability Services Plan in 2001 to address the barriers within the community for people with disability and to address its statutory requirements under the DDA (1993). This Plan was then reviewed and updated on an annual basis.

The DAIP 2010 – 2013 was designed to meet legislative requirements as well as be responsive to the needs of the local and extended community.

In 2012, legislative changes outlined the required structure of DAIPs and dictated reporting on seven outcome areas. The Shire developed a new DAIP for 2014 – 2017 which addressed these seven outcome areas and included an eighth outcome relating to review and monitoring. This DAIP aimed to not only meet legislative requirements but to strategically address access and inclusion issues to the benefit of all community members making the Shire a people friendly place to live, work and visit.

Since the adoption of the DAIP 2014 – 2017, the Shire has implemented many initiatives and made significant progress towards better access and inclusion. Through the 2014 – 17 DAIP, a total of 46 out of 48 strategies were either achieved or considerable progress made towards meeting them.



Key achievements from 2014 – 17 include:

Services and Events

Development and use of an accessible events checklist designed as a quick overview of accessibility for public events to assist event organisers in providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all.

An audit of all ACROD Bays in the Shire was completed and bays categorised to determine accessibility. A prioritised list of insufficient bays was developed and works to upgrade the bays commenced.

Annual ACROD Bay community education campaigns were held with Warning Cards developed for community members and businesses to use as a friendly reminder to people misusing ACROD bays.

Increase in Access Memberships at the Margaret River Recreation Centre, with most access members now participating in mainstream classes / programs.

Inclusion of WA Disabled Sports Association’s (WADSA) Living Life Program at the Margaret River Recreation Centre.

Availability of a beach wheelchair for use during summer months.

Annual inclusive tours of the Margaret River Surfing Pro.

Buildings and Facilities

Successful funding received for upgrades to accessibility of the Augusta Recreation Centre Access audits conducted on plans for Shire redevelopments i.e. Margaret River Cultural

Centre, Margaret River Youth Precinct, Margaret River Main Street Upgrade. Access audits were conducted on 24 public buildings, including caravan parks, sporting

facilities, recreation centres, public toilets, Shire offices, community halls and cultural facilities. The results of the audits have been used to improve accessibility of infrastructure and services.

A priority list of facility upgrades was developed in collaboration with CAIRG and designs and costings received for the top priority project for inclusion in the Long Term Financial Plan.

Upgrades to accessible toilets at the Margaret River and Augusta Recreation Centres and Fearn Avenue public toilet block.

A DAIP Contractor reporting section was added as a special condition of contract in all Requests for Tenders and Requests for Quotations. This also includes suggestions of how contractors can provide access for people with disability.

The Augusta Administration Centre replaced the front access door to a slider with auto-sensor to comply with access standards.

A designated campsite for less abled people was developed at the nature based camping at Alexandra Bridge Camping Ground.

Ongoing facility improvements through building maintenance activities such as handrails, seating, installing signage and improving toilet facilities etc.

Access to Information

A Website Accessibility Procedure was developed and promoted through staff customer service inductions.

Image: Local resident Monica with guide dog Junior at the Margaret River Recreation Centre



An Accessibility link was included on the Shire website, which provides information on text resizing and offers the opportunity to advise the Shire if there are any issues relating to accessibility.

The Libraries continue to identify ways to grow their alternative format resources, with 49,340 resources in alternative formats as at 30 June 2017.

Staff awareness and skills

All staff undergo a comprehensive access and inclusion induction as part of their orientation. This includes a practical component where staff experience what it may be like accessing the Shire offices with a physical and/or visual impairment.

A number of staff have completed additional training in access legislation, universal design in buildings and outdoor areas and conducting building access audits.

Public Consultation

Increased membership for the Community Access and Inclusion Reference Group (CAIRG) (over 80 members as at 30 June 2017). The CAIRG meets quarterly and consulted on a wide range of Shire projects, new builds and re-developments.

Image: Sonia with her work colleagues Claire and Amanda in the CEO’s Executive team.

CEO Leadership Regional Lighthouse Award

In September 2017, the Shire was awarded a CEO Leadership Regional Lighthouse Award from the Local Government Professionals and the Disability Services Commission for demonstration of strong leadership in the area of employment of people with disability.

Employment

An increase in volunteering, work experience and employment opportunities for people with disability, with employment of people with disability at 1.3% of indoor and 5.4% of the Shire’s outdoor as at 30 June 2017.

Strong relationships built with local disability employment agency Forrest Personnel and local disability support agency Camcan

Participation in Forrest Personnel’s Workability Day 2016



Identified challenges

Through reviewing the Disability Access and Inclusion Plan 2014 – 17 it was identified that there are a range of challenges that have an impact on its success. These include:

Budgetary constraints such as: o Funds to improve accessibility of existing infrastructure o Funds to upgrade old facilities to current standards o Limited grant opportunities around access and inclusion o Regional location impact on the cost of access consultants o Budgets for projects including the cost of meeting access standards in the grant

application or project concept stages Difficulties with contractor or agent input, such as:

o Ensuring contractors know about their responsibility and report on progress to work in line with our AIP

o The translation of access from concept and design to development and completion

Resourcing constraints, with increased community expectation for service demand in this area as well as within a multitude of other portfolios

Measuring social return on investment and quantifying the impact of the AIP on members of the community that experience barriers to access and inclusion.

These challenges are anticipated to be ongoing in this area and will continue to require ongoing focus in the AIP 2018 – 22.



Access and Inclusion Policy Statement

The Shire is committed to providing services and working within a diverse community, including people with disability, their families, and carers, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds; Aboriginal Australians, and seniors.

The Shire strives to improve access and inclusion for all its community members.



Our Objectives

The Shire interprets an accessible and inclusive community as one in which all community members can access and are welcomed to participate in all Local Government functions, facilities and services (both in-house and contracted) in the same manner and with the same rights and responsibilities as other members of the community.

A community that recognises its diversity and supports the participation and inclusion of all its members makes for a richer community life.


1. Improve the accessibility and inclusiveness of services and events for all our community; 2. Improve access to the Shire’s buildings and facilities for all our community; 3. Improve access to information that is inclusive to all our community; 4. Improve the quality of service delivered by the Shire of Augusta Margaret River; 5. Ensure the Shire’s feedback and complaints procedure is inclusive for all our community; 6. Improve opportunities for all our community to participate in public consultation undertaken

by the Shire; 7. Improve opportunities for all people with diverse abilities and backgrounds to obtain and

maintain employment with the Shire; and 8. Ensure the strategic management of the monitoring and review of the Access and Inclusion

Plan

Development of the AIP

Planning process

Responsibility for developing, monitoring, implementing, reviewing and amending the AIP is a whole of organisation responsibility that is led by the Community Development Officer. This includes the responsibility of ensuring the plan is rolled out throughout the organisation. The Implementation Plan is integrated within the Shire’s reporting processes with the relevant officers and business units responsible for ensuring each action is completed. The relevant business unit managers meet biannually through Senior Leadership Team Meetings to review the implementation plan. This group is called the Access and Inclusion Reference Group (AIRG).

Community consultation process

A wide community consultation process was carried out to identify potential barriers to access and inclusion and to develop strategies to be incorporated into the new AIP.

The Disability Services Regulations (2004) set out the minimum consultation requirements for public authorities in relation to DAIPs/AIPs. Local government authorities must call for submissions (either general or specific) by notice in a newspaper circulating in the local district of the local government under the Local Government Act 1995 and on any website maintained by or on behalf of the local government authority. Other mechanisms may also be used.

Opportunities for community engagement were advertised or promoted:

Through the Shire’s Community Update section of the Augusta Margaret River Mail

Newspaper

Through a half page advert in the Augusta Margaret River Times Newspaper



Through a full page advert in the Augusta Newsletter “Pelican Post”

Through the Shire’s Your Say Community Consultation website

On the Shire’s website

Through the Community Access and Inclusion Reference Group (CAIRG)

Through the Community Network Group (CNG)

Through direct emails to local Disability Service Clients via Local Coordinators

To individuals and groups through e-mail and phone conversations

The various engagement methods used included:

Survey (online and hard copy)

Share your Story tool on Your Say

Community Workshop Augusta

Community Workshop Margaret River

Direct emails to Disability Services clients in the shire via Disability Services Local

Coordinators

Consultation with the Community Access and Inclusion Reference Group

Telephone conversations with targeted community groups and services

Feedback received via telephone from community members

Consultation with the Access and Inclusion Reference Group (through Senior Leadership

Meeting)

Consultation with internal managers and officers from all Shire business units

Feedback from the Strategic Community Planning process, including results from the

Cultural Diversity Survey 2036

Feedback from the Age Friendly Community Planning process

Feedback from the Community Infrastructure Planning process

Image: Participants at the Community Workshop in Augusta



This community engagement process successfully engaged with a wide range of community members including:

People with a disability, carers, family members,

• Disability service providers and support workers,

• Dept. Communities Disability Services,

• Home and Community Care, WA Primary Health Alliance & Aged care providers,

• Disability Employment agencies,

• Community groups such as the Uniting Church English Club,

• and representatives from the Augusta Community Resource Centre and Margaret River Community Centre.

Results Reach Surveys completed 10 Workshop attendees 14 CAIRG consultation 13 Your Say page visits 25 Direct email to DSC clients 200 CAIRG network 85 CNG network 74 Targeted phone calls 5 Your Say network 1,248 Cultural Diversity Survey 2036 10 Previous community engagement 20 Total 1,704

Above: Results of the community consultation on the AIP. The reach column includes those engaged and those directly invited to provide feedback within each activity. ABS 2016 data indicates that approx.1,400 people in the Shire are directly impacted by access and inclusion. This community engagement was designed to hear from targeted groups as well as inviting feedback from the wider community.

Shire staff and elected members also contributed to idenitfying barriers to access and inclusion and developing draft strategies for the AIP.

It is acknowledged that the community consultation has mainly centred on access and inclusion for people with disability; this is due to addressing the requirements of the Disability Services Act. Once endorsed by Council the AIP will be advertised for public comment for the required 28 days as per statutory requirements. Within this time, the AIP will be more widely promoted as a strategic document that aims to address broader access and inclusion for all community members including people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds; Aboriginal Australians and people experiencing financial hardships.

The community will be advised that the draft AIP is available for public comment through the Shire’s website, Your Say page and promoted through the local newspapers. Copies of the AIP are available to the community upon request and in alternative formats if required, including hard copy in standard and large print, electronic format, audio format on CD, by email and on the Shire’s website.



Findings of the consultation

Overall the findings indicate that the community are satisfied with the direction and achievements of the Shire within their role in access and inclusion. The review process has shown that the Shire has been working in many positive ways across the organisation to improve access to the Shire’s buildings, facilities and services. The engagement process has enabled identification of priority areas for the coming 5 years, these include:

Improvements and monitoring of accessible parking bays, particularly in prime locations and busy tourist spots – Top Priority

Improvements and upgrades to older facilities and buildings – Top Priority Improving footpaths, seating and shading at Shire parks and reserves; Ensuring there are multiple ways of making a complaint and better communication on when

complaints/requests are resolved; Continuing to provide clear and concise information in a range of formats, as many people in

our community do not use computers or emails; Advocating for public transport to facilitate independence in accessing services, events and

public consultations; Ensuring officers are more proactive rather than reactive i.e. budgets for projects including

the cost of addressing access and inclusion in the grant application or project concept stages; and

Continuing to improve organisational culture that recognises access and inclusion issues and focuses on opportunities for improving access and inclusion during the annual business planning and budgeting cycles.

These findings are consistent with strategies identified within the Community Strategic Plan 2036. The new AIP will not only address current access barriers but also reflect contemporary values and practices, such as aiming to meet more than the minimum compliance with access standards and striving for inclusion for all our community members.

Responsibility for implementing the AIP

It is a requirement of the Disability Services Act (1993) that a public authority that has an Access and Inclusion Plan must take all practicable measures to ensure that the plan is implemented by the public authority and its officers, employees, agents and contractors.

Implementation of the AIP is the responsibility of all areas of the Shire. The Implementation Plan that sits alongside the AIP and reviewed annually, sets out who is responsible for each action. The Shire’s Community Development Officer is responsible for driving the implementation of the AIP and supporting Shire officers in achieving their outcomes.

The Community Development Officer also works with the Shire’s Community Access and Inclusion Reference Group (CAIRG). The CAIRG comprises of local disability service organisations and community members who are able to contribute expertise and advice to disability issues. The CAIRG helps provide expert guidance and advice to the Shire in respect to its AIP.

Communicating the Plan to staff and people with disability

The Shire’s new Access and Inclusion Plan 2018 – 2022, once endorsed by Council and after the required public comment period, will be lodged with the Department for Communities, Disability Services. The Shire will advise, through the local media, newspaper, on its website and Your Say Page that copies of the AIP are available to the community upon request and in alternative formats



if required, including hard copy in standard and large print, electronic format, audio format on CD, by email and on the Shire’s website.

Staff will be informed of the endorsement of the new AIP including officer responsibilities and reporting via email and the Shire’s “Livewire” newsletter.

Informing Agents and Contractors

In addition to services provided directly to the public, AIPs also encompass services to the public delivered by agents and contractors. This includes non-government and not-for-profit organisations and businesses that undertake work on behalf of a public authority involving interaction with the community.

The Shire is committed to ensuring that its agents and contractors implement the desired outcomes of the AIP through the following strategies:

Inclusion of information relating to access and inclusion legislative obligations in all contracts and tender documents;

Inclusion of an information sheet on “Ways to Provide Access for People with Disabilities” in contracts and tender documents;

Providing a link to the Shire’s Access and Inclusion Plan; Inclusion of an Agent/Contractors Report in relevant contract and tender templates, which

requires contractors to complete and report on the extent to which they have implemented the Shire’s Access and Inclusion Plan. Reports are to be returned by the end of the contract period or by 15 June in each year of the contract; and

Integrated planning systems and awareness on behalf of project managers in terms of meeting access compliance before sign off on jobs.

Reporting on the AIP

An annual AIP implementation plan, which sets out strategies and actions, has been developed for the Shire to deliver the outcomes of the AIP. The implementation plan is reviewed annually and a report submitted to the Department for Communities, Disability Services outlining:

progress towards the desired outcomes of the AIP; progress of the Shire’s agents and contractors towards meeting the desired outcomes; and the strategies used to inform our agents and contractors of the AIP.

Information on the implementation of the AIP is also included in the Shire’s Annual Report.

Review and evaluation mechanisms

The Disability Services Act sets out the minimum review requirements for public authorities in relation to DAIPs/AIPs. The Shire’s AIP is reviewed at least every five years, in accordance with the Act. The AIP Implementation Plan will be reviewed annually to reflect progress and the changing needs of community. Whenever the AIP is amended, it will be endorsed by Council and lodged with the Department of Communities, Disability Services.


Strategies to Improve Access and Inclusion The following overarching strategies will guide the actions that the Shire of Augusta Margaret River will undertake from 2018 – 22 to improve access and inclusion for our community.

Specific actions and responsible officers are set out in the AIP Implementation Plan, which is an operational plan that is developed and reviewed annually in line with the budgeting process.

Outcome 1: Access to services and events

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Objective: To improve the accessibility and inclusiveness of services and events for all our community Disability Service Regulations 2004: People with disability have the same opportunities as other people to access the services of, and any event organised by the Shire of Augusta Margaret River

Strategy 1: Effective internal planning to incorporate access and inclusion

● ●

Strategy 2: Shire run public events, including icon events, youth events, festivals and meetings are accessible where possible

● ●

Strategy 3: Community event planners are encouraged to consider access and inclusion requirements when applying for event permits

● ●

Strategy 4: Applicants consider access and inclusion when requesting funding for community initiatives through Shire funding sources

● ●

Strategy 5: All contracted services, consultations and events are accessible where possible

● ●

Strategy 6: Continue to develop activities and programs at recreation centres to be as accessible and inclusive as possible

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Strategy 7: Continue to develop out of school hours care to be as accessible and inclusive as possible

● ●


Strategy 8: Continue to provide accessible and inclusive Library services and events

● ●

Strategy 9: Enable accessibility to low cost services to ensure all community members can participate

●

Strategy 10: Continue to support community events that encourage multiculturalism and participation from all members of the community

●

Strategy 11:

Implement the Welcome to and Acknowledgement of Country Policy through Shire events, public functions, ceremonies, meetings and publications

●

Strategy 12: Investigate and identify funding sources to support accessible and inclusive services

● ●

Strategy 13:

Promote community awareness of the range of services available and of their accessibility to encourage individuals and groups to access them

● ●

Strategy 14: Ensure there is a diverse representation of community members in Shire marketing

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Strategy 15: Advocate for accessible services in the community

● ●


Outcome 2: Access to buildings and facilities

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Objective: To improve access to the Shire’s buildings and facilities for all our community Disability Service Regulations 2004: People with disability have the same opportunities as other people to access the buildings and other facilities of the Shire of Augusta Margaret River.

Strategy 1: Accessible Parking Bays in the shire are of a high standard and used appropriately

●

Strategy 2: All new or redeveloped Shire facilities support the development of a universally accessible community

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Strategy 3: Ongoing improvements to accessibility of Shire buildings and facilities

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Strategy 4:

All recreation facilities including recreation centres, public open spaces and sporting facilities support the development of a universally accessible community

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Strategy 5: All contractors work in accordance with the Shire’s Access and Inclusion Plan

● ●

Strategy 6: Key Shire staff are knowledgeable about current access legislation, standards and access auditing

●

Strategy 7: All major town sites in the shire (Margaret River, Augusta, Cowaramup) have accessible toilets compliant with current standards

●

Strategy 8: Determine feasibility of an adult changing places facility within the shire

●

Strategy 9:

Determine feasibility of providing accessible beach access in the shire

●


Strategy 10: Footpaths in the shire are accessible, connected and well maintained

●

Strategy 11: Tactile Ground Surface Indicators (TGSIs) in the shire are installed correctly. Rectify those that don’t comply with current standards

●

Strategy 12: Encourage developers of non-Shire buildings and facilities to consider access and inclusion in the planning stage

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Outcome 3: Access to information

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Objective: To improve access to information that is inclusive to all our community Disability Service Regulations 2004: People with disability receive information from the Shire of Augusta Margaret River in a format that will enable them to access the information as readily as other people are able to access it.

Strategy 1: All Shire information is available in alternative formats upon request

● ●

Strategy 2: Continuous improvement to accessibility of website and Shire template documents

● ●

Strategy 3: Marketing is consistent with accessibility standard for information

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Strategy 4:

Provide readily accessible information regarding services, facilities and customer feedback in an appropriate format and using clear and concise language

● ●


Outcome 4: Quality of Service

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Objective: To improve the quality of service delivered by the Shire of Augusta Margaret River Disability Service Regulations 2004: People with disability receive the same level and quality of service from the staff of the Shire of Augusta Margaret River as other people receive from the staff of the Shire of Augusta Margaret River

Strategy 1: All staff to undergo comprehensive access and inclusion inductions

● ●

Strategy 2:

All volunteers assisting the Shire delivering service to customers are supported in providing a quality service to people with disability through appropriate training and orientation

●

Strategy 3:

Staff involved in front line customer service roles receive additional training on appropriate communication techniques and personal interaction skills

● ●

Strategy 4: Information and resources are readily available to staff on access and inclusion

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Strategy 5: Promote the Shires achievements regarding access and inclusion to staff and the community

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Outcome 5: Opportunities to provide feedback and make complaints

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Objective: To ensure the Shire’s feedback and complaints procedure is inclusive for all our community Disability Service Regulations 2004: People with disability have the same opportunities as other people to make complaints to the Shire of Augusta Margaret River

Strategy 1: Grievance mechanisms are accessible for all our community and in an appropriate format

● ●

Strategy 2: Complaints are handled in a professional manner and complaint resolutions are clearly communicated to complainant

● ●

Strategy 3:

Improve staff knowledge so that they can facilitate and support the receipt of complaints from people with disability

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Strategy 4: Monitor complaints and feedback received to identify areas for improving accessibility

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Outcome 6: Opportunities to participate in public consultation

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Objective: To improve opportunities for all our community to participate in public consultation undertaken by the Shire Disability Service Regulations 2004: People with disability have the same opportunities as other people to participate in any public consultation by the Shire of Augusta Margaret River

Strategy 1: All our community, including people with a disability are provided an opportunity to comment on facilities, services and events

● ●

Strategy 2: The Shire’s policy on Community Consultation aligns with the AIP

● ●

Strategy 3: Promote the existence and role of the Community Access and Inclusion Reference Group (CAIRG) to the community

● ●

Strategy 4: There is a diverse representation of our community on Shire Committees

● ●


Outcome 7: Opportunity to obtain and maintain employment

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Objective: To improve opportunities for all people with diverse abilities and backgrounds to obtain and maintain employment with the Shire Disability Service Regulations 2004: People with disability have the same opportunities as other people to obtain and maintain employment with the Shire of Augusta Margaret River

Strategy 1: The workplace is accessible and inclusive for all members of the community, including those with a disability

● ●

Strategy 2: Recruitment and selection of new employees is inclusive in design to attract a diverse pool of potential applicants

● ●

Strategy 3: Provide work experience, traineeship and volunteering opportunities that are accessible and inclusive

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Strategy 4: Maintain effective relationships with local disability employment agencies to facilitate recruitment of people with a disability

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Outcome 8: Reporting and Accountability

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Objective: To ensure the strategic management of the monitoring and review of the access and inclusion plan This outcome is not a requirement of the Disability Service Regulations 2004.

Strategy 1: Report annual progress towards implementation of the AIP

● ●

Strategy 2: Effective internal reporting on progress of the AIP

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Strategy 3: The Shire’s budgeting process considers AIP strategies

● ●

Key Performance Indicators – measured annually Number of accessibility improvements on Shire infrastructure Number of ACROD Bay upgrades % increase in major projects involving access audits % AIP achieved

Key Performance Indicators – measured 3 yearly % increase in corporate image satisfaction i.e. courtesy of shire

staff, effectiveness of shire staff, front counter service, and responsiveness to complaints/requests

% increase in satisfaction of Shire support to people with disability



Related Documents

Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), 2015 Survey of Disability, Ageing and Carers

Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), 2016 Census of Population and Housing

Commonwealth Disability Discrimination Act (1992)

Commonwealth Disability Discrimination Act (1992) Disability (Access to Premises – Buildings Standards 2010

Disability Services Commission (2013) Count Me In – Disability Future Directions Strategy

Government of Western Australia (1993) Disability Services Act (DSA)

Government of Western Australia (2004) Disability Services Regulations

Government of Western Australia (1984) Equal Opportunity Act (EOA)

Shire of Augusta Margaret River (2009) Age Friendly Community Plan 2017 - 21

Shire of Augusta Margaret River (2013) Asset Management Plan 2013- 23

Shire of Augusta Margaret River (2013) Community Strategic Plan 2036

Shire of Augusta Margaret River (2013) Corporate Plan 2017 - 21

Shire of Augusta Margaret River (2013) Delivering excellent customer service

Shire of Augusta Margaret River (2010) Disability Access and Inclusion Plan 2014 - 17

Shire of Augusta Margaret River (2017) Community Profile

Shire of Augusta Margaret River (2013) Long Term Financial Plan 2017 - 27

Shire of Augusta Margaret River (2013) Workforce Plan 2014 - 18

ACCESS AND INCLUSION POLICY


Access and Inclusion Policy

15 November 2017

This policy was adopted by Council to set governing principles in place that align the strategic

direction of the organisation with Goal 2: Welcoming, inclusive and healthy communities.

Objectives The purpose of this policy is to set the strategic direction of the Shire of Augusta Margaret

River in ensuring Shire services, buildings and facilities are welcoming and inclusive for all

members of our community.

The policy also serves to outline the commitment of the Shire of Augusta Margaret River to

comply with the WA Disability Services Act 1993 (amended 2004) and to ensure that people

with disability have the same access to events, services, buildings, facilities, information,

quality services, opportunities to participate, make complaints and gain employment as other

people in the shire.

Policy The Shire is committed to providing services and working within a diverse community,

including people with disability, their families, and carers, people from culturally and

linguistically diverse backgrounds; Aboriginal Australians, and seniors. The Shire strives to

continually improve access and inclusion for all its community members.

The Shire interprets an accessible and inclusive community as one in which all community

members can access and are welcomed to participate in all Local Government functions,

facilities and services (both in-house and contracted) in the same manner and with the same

rights and responsibilities as other members of the community.

A community that recognises its diversity and supports the participation and inclusion of all its

members makes for a richer community life.


1. Improve the accessibility and inclusiveness of services and events for all our

community;



2. Improve access to the Shire’s buildings and facilities for all our community;

3. Improve access to information that is inclusive to all our community;

4. Improve the quality of service delivered by the Shire of Augusta Margaret River;

5. Ensure the Shire’s feedback and complaints procedure is inclusive for all our

community;

6. Improve opportunities for all our community to participate in public consultation

undertaken by the Shire;

7. Improve opportunities for all people with diverse abilities and backgrounds to obtain

and maintain employment with the Shire; and

8. Ensure the strategic management of the monitoring and review of the Access and

Inclusion Plan

The implementation of the Policy is applied through the Shire’s current Access and Inclusion

Plan (AIP). The Policy is measured according to progress against the implementation plan that

sits alongside the AIP.

The Shire is committed to achieving the desired outcomes of its AIP by taking all practical

measures to ensure the implementation of the AIP by its Councillors, staff, agents and

contractors.

Definitions

Access (sometimes referred to as universal access): Refers to physical access to the natural and built environment – buildings, recreational facilities, parks, bushland, beaches and footpaths – as well as access to the Shire’s services, events and information.

Inclusion:

Refers to social inclusion, in that all people of diverse abilities and backgrounds have the opportunity to participate in a welcoming community.

Application This policy relates to Council, the CEO, staff and contractors providing services on behalf of

the Shire.

Responsibility for the implementation of this policy rests with the Chief Executive Officer and

Directors and is to inform all strategies and plans of the Shire. The Policy is to be reviewed at

least every five years in line with the AIP.




Strategic outcome Goal 2: Welcoming, inclusive and healthy communities

Responsible Directorate Corporate and Community Services


Date of original issue [Council meeting date DD/MM/YYYY]

Contact officer [Position title primarily responsible for implementation/review]

Date of next review [1-3 years from last review]

Document No. [Synergy Document No.]


1.0 25 June 2014 Adoption by Council

1.1 Reviewed policy adopted by Council

Access and Inclusion Implementation Plan 2018 – 19

Key Performance Indicators – measured annually

Number of accessibility improvements on Shire infrastructure Number of ACROD Bay upgrades % increase in major projects involving access audits % AIP achieved

Key Performance Indicators – measured 3 yearly

% increase in corporate image satisfaction i.e. courtesy of shire staff, effectiveness of shire staff, front counter service, and responsiveness to complaints/requests

% increase in satisfaction of Shire support to people with disability

Outcome 1: Access to services and events Objective: To improve the accessibility and inclusiveness of services and events for all our community

Strategies Strategic Alignment Responsibility Timeline Operating/Capital

Expenditure Strategy 1.1

Effective internal planning to incorporate access and inclusion

1.1.1

Advocate for the development of links between the AIP and other Shire plans and strategies, and the budget planning process.

Community Strategic Plan

Corporate and Community Planner Ongoing Op Ex

1.1.2 Ensure CAIRG is consulted on new / reviewed Shire plans and strategies

Community Consultation and Stakeholder Engagement Policy

Managers and Coordinators Ongoing Op Ex

1.1.3 AIP is included as an Agenda item at ELT and SLT

Corporate Business Plan

PA/CEO Ongoing Op Ex

1.1.4 ELT receive fortnightly access and inclusion updates Corporate Business Plan

Community Development Officer Ongoing Op Ex

Strategy 1.2

Shire run public events, including icon events, youth events, festivals and meetings are accessible where possible

1.2.1 Develop internal accessible events checklist, incorporate into the Project Plan template and encourage use by all internal staff organising community events / meetings

Strengthening Youth Plan

Community Development Officer 2018 - 19 Op Ex

1.2.2 Ensure Youth programs and event marketing promotes inclusivity and indicates accessibility of event

Strengthening Youth Plan

Community Development Trainee Ongoing Op Ex

1.2.3 Update the Community Event and Icon Event Sponsorship Application Forms to ensure any Shire sponsored ticketed events consider affordability i.e. concession rates

Draft Events Strategy

Media and Marketing Officer 2018 - 19 Op Ex

Strategy 1.3

Community event planners are encouraged to consider access and inclusion requirements when applying for event permits

1.3.1 Shire Events Officer to continue to educate and encourage reporting on providing accessible events through streamlining the accessible events checklist

Draft Events Strategy Events Officer Ongoing Op Ex

1.3.2 Record data from the accessible events checklists and report quarterly on level of accessibility of events to Community Development Officer, in order to build improvement measures

Draft Events Strategy Events Officer Ongoing Op Ex

Strategy 1.4 Applicants consider access and inclusion when requesting funding for community initiatives through Shire funding sources

1.4.1 Include section on access and inclusion in Community Development Grants and Council Contributions Grant application packages

Draft Capacity Building Plan


Strategy 1.5

All contracted services, consultations and events are accessible where possible

1.5.1

Promote the AIP to all relevant contractors and agents who deliver a public service and include specific access and inclusion requirements in contracts as they are developed, reviewed or renewed.

Procurement Policy ALL Ongoing Op Ex

Strategy 1.6

Continue to develop activities and programs at recreation centres to be as accessible and inclusive as possible

1.6.1 Continue to provide free entry for companions under the Companion Card Scheme at the Recreation Centres


Recreation Operations Manager Ongoing Op Ex

1.6.2 Promote access memberships through the Recreation Centre website and via Facebook


Recreation Operations Manager Biannual Op Ex

1.6.3 Review currency of all access memberships and record notes on best contact for renewals i.e. member, support worker or guardian.


Recreation Operations Manager 2018 - 19 Op Ex

Strategy 1.7

Continue to develop out of school hours care at the Recreation Centre to be as accessible and inclusive as possible

1.7.1 Staff continue to undertake professional development in inclusive childcare practices

Corporate Business Plan Childcare Services Ongoing Cap Ex

Strategy 1.8

Continue to provide accessible and inclusive Library services and events

1.8.1 Continue to grow alternative format resources at both Libraries


Manager Library Services Ongoing Op Ex

1.8.2 Increase community awareness of the availability of alternative format resources


Manager Library Services Annually Op Ex

Strategy 1.9

Enable accessibility to low cost services to ensure all community members can participate

1.9.1 Recreation Centre to continue to support KidSport financial assistance program to enable eligible children aged 5 to 18 to participate in community sport and recreation

Corporate Business Plan Recreation Operations

Manager Ongoing Op Ex

1.9.2 Continue to provide vouchers for use of the Recreation Centre showers to the Community Centre for people experiencing homeless

Affordable Housing Strategy Recreation Operations

Manager Ongoing Op Ex

1.9.3

Continue to provide discounted Property Rates for Seniors, Pensioners and Health Care Card Holders and payment arrangements for anyone struggling financially

Fees and Charges Coordinator Revenue & Customer Service Ongoing

Op Ex

1.9.4 Continue to provide concession rates for Seniors, Pensioners and Health Care Card Holders and Access Memberships at both Recreation Centres

Fees and Charges Recreation Operations Manager Ongoing

Op Ex

1.9.5 Continue to provide free library services including Wi-Fi and internet, and low cost printing and photocopying at both branches

Fees and Charges Manager Library Services Ongoing

Op Ex

Strategy 1.10

Continue to support community events that encourage multiculturalism and participation from all members of the community

1.10.1 Research funding opportunities for multicultural events

Cultural Diversity Policy

Community Development Officer Ongoing

Op Ex

Strategy 1.11

Shire services and events are welcoming and inclusive to a diverse community

1.11.1 Implement the Welcome to and Acknowledgement of Country Policy through Shire events, public functions, ceremonies, meetings and publications

Cultural Diversity Policy Welcome to and Acknowledgement of Country Policy Reconciliation Policy

Community Development Officer PA/Chief Executive Officer ALL

Once adopted

Op Ex

1.11.2 Conduct Australian Citizenship ceremonies which continue to celebrate diversity in our community

Australian Citizenship Act 2007

PA/Chief Executive Officer

4 times per year

Op Ex

Australian Citizenship Regulations 2007

1.11.3 Continue to maintain commitments as a Refugee Welcome Zone


Chief Executive Officer Ongoing Op Ex

1.11.4

Seek opportunities to access State and Federal Government funding for multicultural community development in the Shire


Community Development Officer

Ongoing Op Ex

Strategy 1.12

Investigate and identify funding sources to support accessible and inclusive services

1.12.1 Source grants relating to access and inclusion Corporate Business Plan


Strategy 1.13

Promote community awareness of the range of services available and of their accessibility to encourage individuals and groups to access them

1.13.1 Promote accessible and inclusive services through media releases, website, emails, radio interviews

Communications Strategy ALL Ongoing Op Ex

1.13.2 Promote accessible equipment, services and facilities specific for people with a disability through the Tourism Association



Strategy 1.14

Ensure there is a diverse representation of community members in Shire marketing

1.14.1 Source a suite of photos to use in promoting access memberships i.e. locals with a disability using the recreation centre

Communications Strategy Cultural Diversity Policy

Recreation Operations Manager 2018 – 19 Cap Ex

Strategy 1.15

Advocate for accessible services in the community

1.15.1 Advocate for accessible taxi service in the shire through CAIRG

Age Friendly Community Plan


1.15.2

Advocate for local bus service to enable low income people living with disability more options to attend work, appointments, public consultations, services and events with independence and dignity

Age Friendly Community Plan Strengthening Youth Plan

Community Development Officer Coordinator Community Planning & Development

2019 – 20 Op Ex

1.15.3

Where appropriate, advocate on behalf of culturally diverse community members to improve social, economic, educational and health outcomes for people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds.



Ongoing Op Ex

Outcome 2: Access to buildings and facilities Objective: To improve access to the Shire’s buildings and facilities for all our community


Expenditure

Strategy 2.1 Accessible Parking Bays in the shire are of a high standard and used appropriately

2.1.1 Maintain an audit and condition report of Shire owned accessible parking bays

Asset Management Plan Manager Assets Ongoing

Op Ex

2.1.2 Implement improvements to Shire Accessible Parking Bays, working with CAIRG and Rangers to prioritise.

Asset Management Plan

Works Community Development Officer

Ongoing Cap Ex

2.1.3 Review demand for additional accessible parking bays at Margaret River Recreation Centre, Library and Shire Administration Centre


Works Community Development Officer

2018 - 19 Cap Ex

2.1.4 Continue to enforce local government regulations regarding Accessible Parking Bays

Local Government Regulations 2014

Rangers Ongoing Op Ex

(Parking for people with disabilities)

2.1.5 Implement annual community awareness campaign

Local Government Regulations 2014 (Parking for people with disabilities)


Cap Ex

Strategy 2.2 All new or redeveloped Shire facilities support the development of a universally accessible community

2.2.1 Liaise with CDO to identify projects / works that would benefit from consultation with the Community Access and Inclusion Reference Group (CAIRG)


Director Infrastructure Services

Ongoing – quarterly

Op Ex

2.2.2

All new or major Shire redevelopment projects over the value of $200,000, which include a public access component (excluding roads) will involve an access consultant or access audit

Community Strategic Plan ELT Ongoing

Cap Ex

2.2.3 Internal Design Review Team ensures access standards are met and enhanced at the design stage

BCA Australian Standard 1428 suite

Director Infrastructure Services

Ongoing Op Ex

2.2.4 Review the Shire’s Purchasing Policy to ensure the procurement of goods, services and works support the development of a universally accessible community.

Purchasing Policy Community Development Officer 2018 – 19

Op Ex

2.2.5 Ensure access and inclusion elements are embedded throughout current major projects such as the Main Street, Youth Precinct and Cultural Centre redevelopments.



Op Ex

Strategy 2.3 Ongoing improvements to accessibility of Shire buildings and facilities

2.3.1 Incorporate upgrades identified through access audits and prioritised by CAIRG into future or planned projects

Asset Management Plan Buildings Coordinator

Ongoing Op Ex

2.3.2

Develop a Disability Access Plan for improvements to Shire buildings and facilities through an access auditor and in consultation with CAIRG

Asset Management Plan Community Infrastructure Plan

Buildings Coordinator Community Development Officer

Annual

Cap Ex

2.3.3 Purchase chair with full back and arm support for Margaret River Administration Centre foyer

Age Friendly Plan Coordinator Revenue & Customer Service 2018 - 19

Cap Ex

2.3.4 Promote existence of wheelchair available for public use in Margaret River Administration Centre foyer

Age Friendly Plan Coordinator Revenue & Customer Service 2018 - 19 Op Ex

2.3.5 Erect directional signage on low wall at Admin Building to distinguish between main entrance and after hours side entrance

Age Friendly Plan Buildings Coordinator 2018 - 19

Cap Ex

Strategy 2.4

All recreation facilities including recreation centres, public open spaces and sporting facilities support the development of a universally accessible community

2.4.1

Each major town site (Margaret River, Augusta, Cowaramup) has at least one playground that is accessible for all people, including children with a disability

Public Open Space Strategy

Manager Works Ongoing

Op Ex

2.4.2 Determine standard specifications for access and inclusion design principles, including product furniture choice

Community Infrastructure Plan

Community Development Officer Manager Works

2018 – 19

Op Ex

2.4.3 Determine feasibility and concept plan for a hydrotherapy pool in Margaret River Recreation Centre

Community Infrastructure Plan Recreation Operations

Manager 2019 - 20 Op Ex

2.4.4 Prioritise access improvements to Shire sporting club facilities

Community Infrastructure Plan Gloucester Park Plan

Recreation Manager Building Coordinator

2018 - 19 Cap Ex

2.4.5 Engage with sporting clubs to promote access and inclusion


Recreation Manager 2018 – 19 Op Ex

Strategy 2.5 All contractors work in accordance with the Shire’s Access and Inclusion Plan

2.5.1 Promote the AIP to all relevant contractors and agents outlining specific access and inclusion requirements in Procurement Policy ALL Ongoing Op Ex

contracts as they are developed, reviewed or renewed.

2.5.2 Review current effectiveness of contractors access and inclusion reporting Operational Plan Community

Development Officer 2018 - 19 Op Ex

Strategy 2.6 Key Shire staff are knowledgeable about current access legislation, standards and access auditing

2.6.1 Community Development Officer to research potential training and liaise with relevant staff prior to TNA process

Corporate Business Plan Community

Development Officer Annual Cap Ex

Strategy 2.7 All major town sites in the shire (Margaret River, Augusta, Cowaramup) have accessible toilets compliant with current standards

2.7.1 Develop accessible toilets in Cowaramup

Community Infrastructure Plan Buildings Co-ordinator 2018 – 19

Cap Ex

2.7.2 Determine priority location for compliant accessible toilets in Augusta

Community Infrastructure Plan Buildings Co-ordinator 2018 - 19 Op Ex

Strategy 2.8 Determine feasibility of an adult changing places facility within the shire

2.8.1 Consider appropriate location for an adult changing places facility


Community Development Officer Buildings Co-ordinator Recreation Centre Manager

2018 - 19

Op Ex

2.8.2 Maintain awareness of grants available for changing places and current legislation



Ongoing Op Ex

Strategy 2.9 Determine feasibility of providing accessible beach access in the shire

2.9.1 Research suitable location for beach access and material i.e. beach matting, ramp



2018 - 19 Op Ex

Recreation Operations Manager Infrastructure

2.9.2 Promote use of beach wheelchair Corporate Business Plan

Community Development Officer Annual Op Ex

Strategy 2.10 Footpaths in the shire are accessible, connected and well maintained

2.10.1

When developing or maintaining footpaths ensure the needs of people using walkers, wheelchairs, motorised mobility scooters and gophers are considered

Townsite Pathways Plan The Redevelopment of Margaret River Townsite

Director Infrastructure Ongoing

Op Ex

2.10.2 Investigate feasibility and cost of secure gopher parking for Augusta


Community Development Officer Manager Assets

2018 - 19 Op Ex

Strategy 2.11

Tactile Ground Surface Indicators (TGSIs) in the shire are installed correctly. Rectify those that don’t comply with current

standards

2.11.1 Establish and maintain a database of locations where TGSIs need to be installed or rectified

Asset Management Plan Manager Assets Ongoing Op Ex

2.11.2 Provide standard drawings of TGSI placement to relevant contractors and developers

Asset Management Plan Manager Works Ongoing Op Ex

Strategy 2.12 Encourage developers of non-Shire buildings and facilities to consider access and inclusion in the planning stage

2.12.1 Ensure all building applications meet the BCA requirements and AS1428 suite as a minimum


Statutory Planners Ongoing Op Ex

2.12.2

Ensure that the Community Access and Inclusion Reference Group (CAIRG) is consulted in regards to applications for significant private development, which include a public component, e.g. recreation, shopping centre.


Manager Planning and Development Services Ongoing

Op Ex

Outcome 3: Access to information Objective: To improve access to information that is inclusive to all our community

Strategies and Actions Strategic Alignment Responsibility Timeline Operating/Capital

Expenditure Strategy 3.1 All Shire information is available in alternative formats upon request

3.1.1 Ensure the availability of alternative formats is promoted on the Shire website, and within all plans and policies

Corporate Style Guide

Community Development Officer Marketing & Events Officer

2018 - 19

Op Ex

3.1.2

Ensure the availability of information in languages other than English where appropriate and utilise the services of qualified translators or Telephone Interpreter Service when required.

Cultural Diversity Policy Managers and

Coordinators Ongoing

Op Ex

Strategy 3.2 Continuous improvement to accessibility of website and Shire template documents

3.2.1 Consider use of another colour rather than the light green on Power Point Templates


Marketing & Events Officer 2018 - 19 Op Ex

3.2.2 Ensure that upgrades to the Shire website are in a format suitable for people with disability and readable with screen-readers and other assistive technology

Corporate Style Guide ICT Framework

ICT Services Ongoing Op Ex

Strategy 3.3 Marketing is consistent with accessibility standard for information

3.3.1 Ensure Corporate Style Guide incorporates access and inclusion considerations


Community Development Officer Marketing & Events Officer

2018 - 19

Op Ex

3.3.2

Employees use Vision Australia’s colour contrast analyser available through Vision Australia www.visionaustralia.org/digital-access-cca when creating graphics to ensure good colour contrast and inclusion of people who are colour blind


Marketing & Events Officer Community Development Trainee ALL

Ongoing

Op Ex

Strategy 3.4 Provide readily accessible information regarding services, facilities and customer feedback in an appropriate format and using clear and concise language

3.4.1 Customer service staff aware of availability and trained in using the National Relay Service

Customer Service Charter Customer Service Plan

Coordinator Revenue & Customer Service 2018 - 19

Op Ex

3.4.2 Add quick links of useful websites on public computers in Shire foyer i.e. Shire website, online feedback form, Your Say website, Dept Transport website

ICT Framework Coordinator Revenue & Customer Service 2018 - 19

Op Ex

3.4.3 Determine most up to date methods for providing accessible information to customers with disability, low literacy, language barriers or other communication difficulties



Op Ex

3.4.4 Ensure promotion of services, facilities and events is multi-modal i.e. online, hard copies etc. for those that can’t/don’t use computers

Corporate Style Guide All Ongoing

Op Ex

3.4.5 Ensure promotional material is simple and uses clear and concise language i.e. invites, posters etc.


Marketing & Events Officer All

Ongoing Op Ex

http://www.visionaustralia.org/digital-access-cca

Outcome 4: Quality of Service Objective: To improve the quality of service delivered by the Shire of Augusta Margaret River


Expenditure

Strategy 4.1 All staff to undergo comprehensive access and inclusion inductions

4.1.1 All new staff to undergo access and inclusion inductions as part of their orientation

HR Induction procedure


4.1.2 Existing staff to undergo access and inclusion inductions if they have not yet completed this training



4.1.3 Access and Inclusion induction developed for Councillors


Community Development Officer 2018 – 19 Op Ex

4.1.4 Access and Inclusion inductions are continuously reviewed and improved


Community Development Officer Annually Op Ex

Strategy 4.2

All volunteers assisting the Shire delivering service to customers are supported in providing a quality service to people with disability through appropriate training and orientation

4.2.1 Access awareness training sheet developed and provided to all volunteers dealing with the public

Workforce Plan Community Development Officer 2018 - 19 Op Ex

Strategy 4.3

Staff involved in front line customer service roles receive additional training on appropriate communication techniques and personal interaction skills

4.3.1

Community Development Officer to research further training around providing good customer service to people with a disability and liaise with Customer service, Recreation Centre and Libraries prior to TNA process


Community Development Officer 2018 - 19

Cap Ex

4.3.2 If requested, Customer Service staff to utilise private meeting room for discussion of sensitive issues from customers with hearing impairments


Coordinator Revenue & Customer Service Ongoing

Op Ex

4.3.3

Research online training courses aimed at building capability around cultural diversity in the workplace at www.cultural-competence.com.au

Cultural Diversity Policy Community


Strategy 4 .4 Information and resources are readily available to staff on access and inclusion

4.4.1 Community Development Officer to keep abreast of current best practice including MARCIA project via access and inclusion networks

Australian Business Excellence Framework


Op Ex

Strategy 4.5 Promote the Shires achievements regarding access and inclusion to staff and the community

4.5.1 Ensure shire achievements are promoted through media releases, website, livewire etc

Communications Strategy


http://www.cultural-competence.com.au/

Outcome 5: Opportunities to provide feedback and make complaints Objective: To ensure the Shire’s feedback and complaints procedure is inclusive for all our community


Expenditure

Strategy 5.1 Grievance mechanisms are accessible for all our community and in an appropriate format

5.1.1 Ensure there are multiple ways and formats for making complaints

Complaint Handling Guide

Coordinator Revenue & Customer Service Ongoing Op Ex

5.1.2 Make available hard copy Customer Feedback forms in Shire Administration Centre foyers


Coordinator Revenue & Customer Service 2018 - 19 Op Ex

5.1.3 Encourage staff to allow flexibility when handling complaints from customers who are illiterate


Coordinator Revenue & Customer Service 2018 - 19 Op Ex

5.1.4 Update the Complaint Handling Guide at the next review to ensure there is flexibility in making complaints for customers who are illiterate

Complaint Handling Guide Coordinator Revenue &

Customer Service 2019 - 20 Op Ex

Strategy 5.2 Complaints are handled in a professional manner and complaint resolutions are clearly communicated to complainant

5.2.1 Complaint Handling Guide is provided to all staff in Customer Service inductions


Coordinator Revenue & Customer Service

Ongoing Op Ex

Strategy 5.3 Improve staff knowledge so that they can facilitate and support the receipt of complaints from people with disability

5.3.1 Grievance accessibility information is provided to all staff in access and inclusion inductions.



5.3.2 All staff to be notified of changes or updates to complaints procedure and Complaint Handling Guide.


Coordinator Revenue & Customer Service

Ongoing Op Ex

Strategy 5.4 Monitor complaints and feedback received to identify areas for improving accessibility

5.4.1 Identify process for capturing data on complaints regarding accessibility



Outcome 6: Opportunities to participate in public consultation Objective: To improve opportunities for all our community to participate in public consultation undertaken by the Shire


Expenditure Strategy 6.1 All our community, including people with a disability are provided an opportunity to comment on facilities, services and events

6.1.1 Shire staff to advise and/or consult directly with the CAIRG on any matters that are put out for public consultation


ALL Ongoing

Op Ex

6.1.2 Send public consultations that are open for comment on Your Say to the CAIRG network



Op Ex

6.1.3 Regularly consult with individuals, disability organisations and networks as required



Op Ex

6.1.4

Ensuring people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds are effectively consulted where appropriate in relation to the Shire’s programs and services

Community Consultation and Stakeholder Engagement Policy Cultural Diversity Policy

ALL Ongoing

Op Ex

Strategy 6.2

The Shire’s policy on Community Consultation aligns with the AIP

6.2.1 Ensure the Shire’s Community Consultation and Stakeholder Engagement Policy allows a range of ways to provide comment on public consultations i.e. online, in person, phone call, focus group etc.


Community and Corporate Planner 2018 - 19

Op Ex

Strategy 6.3

Promote the existence and role of the Community Access and Inclusion Reference Group (CAIRG) to the community

6.3.1 Promote the CAIRG via media release annually and maintain current information regarding CAIRG on the website


Community Development Officer Annually

Op Ex

Strategy 6.4

There is a diverse representation of our community on Shire Committees

6.4.1 Determine how to increase representation from people with a disability on the CAIRG. Consider meeting length and language used.



Op Ex

6.4.2 Invite CAIRG members to bring along clients for specific consultations that may be of interest.



Op Ex

6.4.3 Ensure the Youth Advisory Council (YAC) is inclusive to encourage representation from youth with disability and promote through the CAIRG database

Strengthening Youth Plan Community

Development Trainee Ongoing Op Ex

Outcome 7: Opportunity to obtain and maintain employment Objective: To improve opportunities for all people with diverse abilities and backgrounds to obtain and maintain employment with the Shire


Expenditure

Strategy 7.1

The workplace is accessible and inclusive for all members of the community, including those with a disability

7.1.1 Promote the benefits to Management of flexible employment and employment of people with disability through bi-annual SLT meeting access updates

EEO Plan (yet to be developed)


Bi-annual

Op Ex

7.1.2 Promote the benefits to management of flexible employment and employment of people with disability through HR Recruitment Panel Members inductions


Coordinator Human Resources

Ongoing Op Ex

Strategy 7.2

Recruitment and selection of new employees is inclusive in design to attract a diverse pool of potential applicants

7.2.1

Review the Department of Communities, Disability Service’s Disability Employment Toolkit and align Shire recruitment and selection procedures i.e. a range of methods for applying, EEO statement on advert etc.

EEO Plan (yet to be developed) Coordinator Human

Resources 2019-20 Op Ex

7.2.2 All staff undergo Equal Employment Opportunity training


Coordinator Human Resources Biennially Op Ex

Strategy 7.3

Provide work experience, traineeship and volunteering opportunities that are accessible and inclusive

7.3.1 Manage requests and find work placements / volunteering opportunities for people that experience barriers to employment

EEO Plan (yet to be developed) Coordinator Human

Resources Ongoing Op Ex

7.3.2 Determine the feasibility of implementing a Youth with a disability annual traineeship position, utilising the Disabled Australian Apprenticeship Wage Support System

EEO Plan (yet to be developed) Strengthening Youth Plan 2018 - 2022

Manager Recreation Services Coordinator Human Resources Community Development Officer

2019 - 20

Op Ex

Strategy 7.4

Maintain effective relationships with local disability employment agencies to facilitate recruitment of people with a disability

7.4.1 Meet with Local Disability Employment Agencies annually and as required to discuss the employment of people with disability in the Shire


Coordinator Human Resources Community Development Officer

Ongoing

Op Ex

Outcome 8: Reporting and Accountability Objective: To ensure the strategic management of the monitoring and review of the access and inclusion plan


Expenditure

Strategy 8.1 Report annual progress towards implementation of the AIP

8.1.1 Complete statutory report to Department Communities Disability Services

Disability Services Act 1993 Community

Development Officer Annually Op Ex

8.1.2 Complete statutory reporting on the AIP through the Shire’s Annual report

Disability Services Act 1993

Community Development Officer Annually Op Ex

Strategy 8.2 Effective internal reporting on progress of the AIP

8.2.1 Determine and develop best internal reporting mechanism i.e Interplan or Excel spreadsheet on Intranet

Corporate Business Plan Community


8.2.2

SLT to meet biannually to review progress towards the AIP Implementation Plan and follow up with respective staff responsible for action


Community Development Officer Managers & Coordinators

Bi-annually

Op Ex

Strategy 8.3 The Shire’s budgeting process considers AIP strategies

8.3.1 Review Implementation Plan annually prior to budget deliberations

Annual budget Community Development Officer Annually Op Ex

8.3.2 Secure necessary budgets for implementing AIP actions

Annual budget Managers & Coordinators Annually Cap Ex

8.3.3 Secure an annual minimum of $10,000 in Community Planning and Development budget for delivering the AIP

Annual budget Coordinator Community Planning & Development

Annually Cap Ex

2014 – 2017 DAIP Achievements

Outcome 1

People with disability have the same opportunities as other people to access the services of, and any events organised by the Shire

Strategy Key Performance Indicator

1.1 Shire policies and framework support the DAIP

DAIP listed as key document in Shire policies and frameworks.

• DAIP listed as key document in Shire policies and frameworks. • Community Access and Inclusion Reference Group (CAIRG) consulted regularly on relevant Shire policies

1.2 Effective internal planning to incorporate access and inclusion

DAIP included as agenda item at the ELT.

• Progress towards the implementation of the DAIP and updates on current access issues or projects discussed at fortnightly Executive Leadership Team Meetings. This allows management to plan for, action and understand access and inclusion issues, areas for improvement, training and happenings.

• Internal Design Review Team formed to ensure access standards are met at the design stage.

1.3 Shire public events including icon events, festivals, meetings and consultation are accessible where possible

Accessible Events Checklist

• Developed a 2-pager Accessible Event checklist designed as a quick overview of accessibility for public events to assist event organisers in providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all who choose to attend their event.

• Event Application form also has an access and equity compliance section. • CAIRG Terms of Reference extended to include consultation on accessibility of events in the shire.

• Accessibility of events in the region has become a standard item on the Community Access and Inclusion Reference Group (CAIRG) meeting agenda. Shire Events Officer attends quarterly CAIRG meetings or provides updates and requests feedback. This allows the Shires Events Officer to gain guidance on accessibility of events in the region from group members and relay this to event organisers to assist ongoing improvement in accessibility of public events.

• Inclusive events are held annually with local youth with a disability during the Margaret River Surfing Pro. • The Shire support Artzability Inc. with projects and events. • The Shire hosts a number of accessible events during Seniors Week to connect seniors with other seniors and with local

services in the community i.e. Rec Centres, libraries and agencies that support health and wellbeing. • CAIRG is consulted in regards to new redevelopment and building asset work and Shire plans and policies. • Community is consulted in a wide range of ways i.e. through Your Say platform, surveys, focus groups, one on one

opportunities in the community etc.

1.4 All contracted services, consultations and events are accessible where possible

Contractors are provided with a link to our DAIP and the Accessible Events Checklist

• A DAIP Contractor Reporting section has been added as a Special Condition of Contract in the Request for Tender and Request for Quotation templates. This also includes a 1 page document with examples of how contractors can provide access for people with a disability.

• Event Application form has an access and equity compliance section. • Developed an Accessible Event checklist designed as a quick overview of accessibility for public events to assist event

organisers in providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all who choose to attend their event.

1.5 Continue to enforce local laws regarding ACROD parking bays

Infringements are issued to people that misuse ACROD bays

• Shire Rangers continue to enforce local laws in regards to ACROD parking bays. Throughout 2016-17, twelve parking infringements were issued for unlawful parking in ACROD bays.

• Rangers participate in annual Accessible parking bay community education awareness on the importance of not misusing accessible parking bays.

1.6 Implementation of the ACROD Project – community notification and audit of bays

ACROD project is completed

• ACROD/Blue Bay July Project undertaken annually. • Local businesses and organisations are provided with Blue Bay Calling Cards as a friendly reminder to people misusing ACROD

bays. Community awareness raising through the papers and ABC radio interviews about not illegally using ACROD bays. • A specially designed infographic that explained what an ACROD bay is, who can use it, the process involved in getting an ACROD

parking permit and the affect that misuse of ACROD bays can have on community members that require the use of these bays • Audit of all ACROD bays in the Shire completed and categorised. A list and maps created of the 32 Shire bays classed as

insufficient and prioritised through assistance of the CAIRG and feedback from Rangers on the most misused bays. A budget has been provided for next financial year (and subsequent years) to upgrade these bays.

• Improvements to ACROD bays with many bollards changed over to a flexible bollard to mitigate the risk of damage.

Outcome 1


1.7 Continue to develop activities and programs at recreation centres to be as accessible and inclusive as possible

Number of people with Access memberships

• There are currently 22 access memberships at the Recreation Centres. Most access members are now entering into mainstream classes • Continuation of weekly Count Me In inclusive recreation programs at Margaret River Recreation Centre including Aquability and

Danceability classes • Continuation of planning towards introducing Count Me In inclusive recreation programs at Augusta Recreation Centre • Continuation of Living Longer Living Stronger classes at both Margaret River and Augusta Recreation Centres. • WA Disabled Sports Association’s (WADSA) Living Life Program available

• Availability of a beach wheel chair for use during summer months. This year the chair was provided for public use at Gracies Town Store - Gracetown.

1.8 Continue to develop school holiday activities and crèche facilities at the Recreation Centre to be as accessible and inclusive as possible

Number of children with disability accessing the crèche facilities

• Programs are designed around the education system to be fully inclusive, working with government departments to ensure program is multifunctional.

• Childcare Services at the Recreation Centre as also a preferred supplier under the NDIS.

1.9 Provide accessible and inclusive Youth events and activities

Number of accessible youth activities

• Events organised through the Shire’s Youth Advisory Committee (YAC) are accessible where possible. These include: YAC weekly meetings, MR SAM, National Youth Week and school holiday activities.

• Event promotion material promotes inclusive and all abilities (2016-17 this has dropped off in recent years so mechanisms to ensure this is not forgotten will be a focus in new DAIP).

• In 2015 we held an inclusive youth tour of the Margaret River Pro.

1.10 Investigate and identify funding sources to support accessible and inclusive services

Number of grant applications submitted relating to access and inclusion

• Successful $50,000 funding received through DSC and WALGA for the upgrading of the Augusta Recreation Centre. • Successful funding received through the Dept. of Culture and the Arts for a disability access audit of the Margaret River Cultural

Centre. • Successful funding received through Lotterywest for the redevelopment of the Margaret River Youth Precinct which includes an

accessible stage area and upgrades to the accessibility of the Youth Zone Room. • Provided a letter of support for the WA Disabled Sports Association (WADSA) for a DSC grant for their Living Life Project. This was

successful and the Shire has benefited from this by receiving a box of new “all abilities” equipment that can be accessed by support workers/carers.

1.11 Promote community awareness of the range of services available and of their accessibility to encourage individuals and groups to access them

Number of community awareness raising activities, media releases, website updates, information distributed, radio interviews

• Regular promotion of accessible community events and services through the CAIRG, the Community Network Group, the CommunityCONNECT database, the YAC Facebook page and the Shire website.

• Regular information dissemination through CAIRG distribution email list promoting accessible and inclusive services and events.

Outcome 2

People with disability have the same opportunities as other people to access the buildings and facilities of the Shire


2.1 Internal design review team

formed to ensure access standards are met at the design stage

Design review committee is formed

• The Design Review Team meets when required to ensure access standards are met at the design stage. • Throughout 2016-17 a meeting with this team was not held however, accessibility of facilities designed during this time have been

reviewed by an access consultant or reviewed by the Coordinator Building Assets & Maintenance and the Community Development Officer, both of whom are experienced in this area.

2.2 All new or major Shire

redevelopment work over the value of $200,000 will involve an access consultant or access audit

Number of major projects that involved access consultants or specialists

• An access audit was undertaken of the Margaret River Cultural Centre to assist in planning for the redevelopment. • The proposed upgrade to the Margaret River Cultural Centre has addressed designing for access into the initial concept design stage. • O’Brien Harrop Access reviewed the plans for stage 1 and 2 of the Margaret River Main Street Redevelopment. The review looked at

elements of the design and made recommendations on accessible path of travel, power and lighting pole locations, kerb ramps and flush crossings, warning tactile ground surface indicators, directional tactile ground surface indicators, mid-block crossings and other crossings, vehicle crossovers at driveways, paved surfaces, abutment to surfaces, accessible parking, taxi stand and shelter, street furniture, bike racks, stairs and signage. The report form part of an overall suite of comments to be considered in finalising the design.

2.3 Ensure all building applications meet the BCA requirements

All applications meet the BCA which includes the Access to Premises Standard 2011

• All building applications meet the BCA requirements which includes the Access to Premises Standard 2011 (In 2016-17 33 approvals were issued for commercial buildings, public buildings or facilities within public places).

2.4 All briefs, tenders and contracts

to include a copy of the DAIP responsibilities as part of the contract

Number of completed contractors check list

• Used when relevant, a DAIP contractor reporting section has been added as a special condition of contract in the request for tender and request for quotation templates. This also includes a 1-page document with examples of how contractors can provide access for people with a disability.

2.5 Up to date information is made available on accessibility of infrastructure and services

Audit of current access of buildings and services

• Audits were carried out on twenty-four public buildings, including caravan parks, sporting facilities, recreation centres, public toilets, Shire offices, community halls and cultural centres. The results of the audits have been used to improve accessibility of infrastructure and services.

Outcome 2

People with disability have the same opportunities as other people to access the buildings and facilities of the Shire

2.6 Create and implement a prioritised list of buildings and facilities that require access upgrades

Creation of a priority list

• In collaboration with the CAIRG, the results from the audits were used to create a priority list of facilities to be updated. One public toilet within Cowaramup was highlighted as the most important facility requiring upgrading, and as such, our focus is on this facility, which is now being drawn up, ready for costing. Once costed it will be included in our long-term financial plan or alternatively we will seek alternative funding opportunities.

2.7 Create a list of the top 10 access upgrades that would improve the quality of life of visitors and residents and incorporate as many as possible into future or planned projects.

Create a priority list through the CAIRG and through public feedback and requests

• Areas requiring upgrades to improve quality of lives for residents and visitors have been gathered via customer requests, CAIRG and via community consultation for the Shire’s Age Friendly Community Plan. This has indicated that public seating, safe road crossings and the usability of footpaths are highly regarded as areas of importance for the whole community.

2.8 Ensure that the Community Access and Inclusion Reference Group (CAIRG) is consulted in regards to new and redevelopment building and asset work

Attendance of project managers at CAIRG meetings

• The CAIRG meet quarterly to discuss items in relation to access and inclusion. These meetings offer various business units of the Shire an opportunity to bring items relating to asset work and redevelopment of buildings to CAIRG and gain feedback on the design and proposed works. Feedback received from CAIRG on the 33 items presented at the five meetings held this financial year is highly valued and designs, where required, are altered to reflect best practice, whenever possible.

2.9 Liaise with the CAIRG on disability access and inclusion requirements for playgrounds or upgrades

Attendance of project managers at CAIRG meetings

Manager Works Y Y – amend?

• Playground design and playground maintenance are also brought to CAIRG for comment, or feedback from CAIRG in relation to playgrounds provided to the Shires Parks and Garden team. Recent requests have been in regards to the need for fenced playground areas.

Outcome 3

People with disability receive information from the Shire of Augusta-Margaret River in a format that will enable them to access the information as readily as other people are able to access it.


3.1 All Shire information is available in alternative formats upon request

Number of requests for information in alternative format per year

• Although we rarely receive a request for information to be provided in alternative formats, all Shire information is available in a variety of alternative formats on request. The formats available include internet, email, USB, large print text or services available via the National Relay Service.

• All staff are informed of their requirement to provide information in alternative formats through Access and Inclusion inductions. 3.2 Continuous improvement to

accessibility of website and Shire documents

Website and documents meet access standards

• The Shire continues to ensure website and documents available on the Shire’s website meets access standards. • Website Accessibility Procedure promoted through staff customer service inductions. • Accessibility link on the homepage of the website which provides information on text resizing, offers the opportunity to advise the Shire if

there are any issues surrounding accessibility and also contains a link to AccessWA. • New toolbar button added to the website so when editing a page you can click on it and you will get a report on any potential accessibility

issues. 3.3 Investigate technology and tools

available for use by front counter staff to assist people with disability

Number of upgrades or improvements

• The Margaret River Customer Service foyer has an accessible counters which provides the ability for Customer Service Officers to service all customers.

• The Augusta Administration Centre has replaced the front access door to a slider with auto-sensor to comply with access standards.

• Library Services launched Cloud Library l from May 1st 2017, which is a second e-book resource for library patrons which allows the user to adjust font size and brightness for ease of reading in addition to Over-drive e-books. In addition OneClick digital and Borrow Box downloadable audio books are available for those unable to visit the Library or manage a physical book.

• The Shire uses the National Relay Service at the front counter. • The Margaret River Administration Centre front counter and the Recreation Centre front counter have a wheelchair available to assist

people with a physical disability or the aged. 3.4 Marketing is consistent with

accessibility standard for information Replace and update the Accessible Information Policy and include a check list for marketing communication manual/policies/procedures.

• The Shire’s corporate style guide includes information on accessibility standards.

3.5 Library services to continue to identify ways to grow its alternative format resources

Number of new alternative format resources

• The physical collections at Margaret River and Augusta libraries also maintain access to large print books and a range of audio books in both CD form and Playaway devices that are small lightweight standalone devices that can be carried in a pocket.

• Access to resources in alternative formats are at 49,340 as of June 2017.

Outcome 4

People with disability receive the same level and quality of service from staff at the Shire.


4.1 New staff induction and orientation includes access and inclusion component.

Number of staff inducted for A&I

• Access and inclusion inductions for new staff are carried out quarterly. Through 2016-17 twenty staff have participated in these inductions. The induction goes for 1.5 hours and includes a practical component where staff experience what it may be like accessing the Shire offices with a physical and/or visual impairment.

4.2 All existing staff to undergo access

and inclusion inductions if they have not yet completed this training

Audit of staff members who have completed training, schedule of training for those outstanding staff members

• A database of existing staff that have not yet completed this training is being maintained and staff are invited to inductions, when relevant. 4.3 All volunteers assisting the Shire

delivering service to customers are supported in providing a quality service to people with disability through appropriate training and orientation

Access awareness training sheet developed and provided to all volunteers dealing with the public

• Due to conflicting priorities no further progress has been made in relation to this strategy. 4.4 Disability awareness training is

continuously improved and reviewed

Review is completed

• Access and Inclusion Inductions are continuously updated with relevant information and engaging content. • A number of internal staff have undertaken training in understanding access legislation and universal design in buildings; understanding

access legislation and universal design in outdoor areas and Cert 4 in conducting building access audits. Ongoing training by relevant internal stakeholders allows for continuous improvement and review of current practices and methodology.

4.5 Information and resources are readily available to staff on access and inclusion

Number of requests for information

• The Community Development Officer is the main contact for information and access to resources on access and inclusion. The officer is available to assist staff members with enquiries. The Shire also has a webpage for access and inclusion which links directly to the DAIP, the Shire’s Access and Inclusion Policy, web content accessibility requirements, national relay service, universal key program and responsibilities for local government contractors. Having access to all this information in one location makes it easier for staff to navigate their requirements in relation to access and inclusion.

4.6 Promote the Shire’s achievements

regarding disability and access to staff and the community

Number of media releases, web updates and promotional material distributed

• Shire's achievements are promoted to the ELT fortnightly. • Shire’s achievements are promoted through CAIRG meetings. • Media releases are produced when required to promote Shire achievements • An ACROD awareness campaign was run throughout April 2017 that raised awareness around ACROD bay users and compliance via

hard copy posters, stakeholder email and via print media. 4.7 Investigate and promote

accessible accommodation and tourist facilities through the “You’re Welcome Initiative”

Add link to our website http://www.accesswa.com.au/

• Link to the You’re Welcome Initiative through the Shire website. • Discussions underway with CAIRG, DSC and Access and Inclusion Google Group around how best to promote accessible

accommodation in the shire, acknowledging that the You’re Welcome Initiative is being phased out. The Busselton Margaret River Tourism Centre has a list of local accessible accommodation and tourist facilities.

Outcome 5

People with disability have the same opportunities as other people to make complaints to the Shire


5.1 Grievance mechanisms are accessible for people with disability and in an appropriate format

Ensure that there are multiple ways and formats for people to make a complaint

• The Shire’s Complaint Handling Guide outlines a range of ways people with disability can make complaints.

5.2 Improve staff knowledge so they can facilitate and support the receipt of complaints from people with disability

Grievance accessibility information provided to all staff in inductions. All staff to be notified of changes or updates to complaints procedures

• The range of ways customers can make complaints are discussed during staff access and inclusion and customer service inductions. 5.3 Feedback received through

complaints and compliments forms continuous improvement

Number of complaints/compliments recorded in our records systems

• Data on complaints is kept in our records system and reported through the Shire’s Annual Report. Community members with a disability are given the same opportunities as other community members to make complaints to the Shire and feedback received is responded to in a timely manner. This feedback directly informs continuous improvement.

Outcome 6

People with disability have the same opportunities as other people to participate in any public consultation within the Shire


6.1 Shire staff to advise and/or consult directly with the Community Access and Inclusion Reference Group (CAIRG) on any matters that are put out for public consultation

Number of consultations between Shire staff and CAIRG

• The Shire holds quarterly CAIRG meetings. In the last financial year (2016-17) a total of 23 items were brought to CAIRG for consultation. 6.2 Promote the existence and the role

of the Community Access and Inclusion Reference Group to the community

Public advertising, website, promotional material, media releases

• The CAIRG is promoted through our networks as well as through occasional Media Releases. We have also raised awareness of CAIRG through inviting special guests to present to the group. This assists in raising the profile of the group, whilst keeping topics interesting for members.

• The CAIRG now has over 80 current members. 6.3 Consult with individuals, disability

organisations and networks as required

Number of CAIRG meetings.

• There are at least 4 CAIRG meetings held each year, which allows for consultation and sharing of information. Service providers, disability organisations, care workers, family members and people with a disability attend CAIRG.

• Regular consultation with individuals, disability organisations and networks through CAIRG email distribution list. • Shire Community Development Officer (CDO) participated bi-monthly as the Local Government Representative for the LSW My Way

Advisory Group, chaired by DSC. This group ceased in July 2016. • Shire CDO participates in the WA access and inclusion officers networking google group and consults with the group as required. • Shire CDO regularly attends the Margaret River Aged Care Advisory Committee meeting. • In addition, as part of the Shire Community Strategic Plan major review a Community Reference Group has been formed. This group is

made up of representatives from a diverse range of community groups and interest areas and meets to discuss the future needs of our community now and into the future. Results from this will be harnessed to inform the major review of the Shire’s Community Strategic Plan.

6.4 Aim for ongoing representation of youth with disability on the Margaret River Youth Advisory Council (YAC)

Number of youth with disability engaging in YAC programs

• The Shire’s YAC is open to any youth wishing to join. From time to time individuals with a disability attend holiday programs or YAC Thursday afternoon sessions, which is widely supported by the Shire. Throughout 2016-17, there has been one consistent member of the YAC who identifies as a person with a disability

6.5 Review the Council's policy on consultation and ensure it is aligned with the DAIP

Council Policy is reviewed and updated

• The Shire’s Community Consultation and Stakeholder Engagement Policy was reviewed in November 2016. This policy is aligned with the DAIP to ensure that all people with a disability have the same opportunity as other people to participate in any public consultation.

• The Shire has updated current policy and created a Community Consultation and Stakeholder Engagement Policy and supporting framework to ensure consistency and better planning across the organisation. This will directly support consultation relating to access and inclusion and promotes a multi channelled approach for consultation as well as highlighting the role of the CAIRG as a forum in consulting directly with people with a disability and disability service providers

Outcome 7

People with disability have the same opportunities as other people to obtain and maintain employment with the Shire.


7.1 The Shire’s recruitment strategies ensure equal employment opportunity

EEO listed in all recruitment, Managers are aware of EEO requirements Manager of Human Resources

• The Shire's recruitment strategies align with Equal Employment Opportunity requirements.

7.2 Review/audit physical access to work sites for existing/potential employees. Identify employment barriers and remove where possible

Audit of current access of buildings and services, see Strategy 2.5

• Shire worksites, such as the Administration Office in Augusta, the Shire managed caravan parks and the Shire managed recreation centres in both Margaret River and Augusta have recently been audited as part of the Shire facilities and buildings disability access audits. Required changes picked up through these audits have been carried out since this time.

• Some of the adaptions carried out include: Augusta Recreation Centre – Fully compliant unisex sanitary facility installed in the recreation centre upgrade Margaret River Recreation Centre - signage, bench seat in change rooms installed, quote for services to install ramp handrails in progress, hooks and shelves in change rooms installed and doors painted with 30% contrast.

7.3 Promote the benefits to the Shire

of flexible employment and employment of people with disability in all HR and access induction information

Review current induction material and incorporated benefits into inductions for all staff. Distribute any relevant materials developed to all staff involved in recruitment, volunteers or student placements

• The Shire promotes its flexible working arrangements as an employee benefit within the ‘Working For Us’ section of the careers area of our website.

• Through the Shire’s Recruitment and Selection procedure, the organisation is committed to promoting equal employment opportunities. • There is a comprehensive Flexible Working Arrangements procedure, which is accessible to all employees within the Shire, and the

comprehensive induction process encompass flexible working arrangements and access and inclusion information for new staff. 7.4 Explore work experience

opportunities, in particular with people that experience access barriers

Relationship built with stakeholder agencies to build on employment opportunities, including student placements and volunteers that experience barriers to employment

• The Shire is committed to exploring work experience opportunities for the local community and works closely with Margaret River Senior High School, CamCan and Forrest Personnel.

• All employment agencies are encouraged to assist job seekers with disabilities, health conditions or injuries wishing to find sustainable work to approach the Shire on a case-by-case basis and to network with Shire employees.

• The Shire are an equal opportunities employer and welcomes and encourages applications for advertised positions by any individuals, regardless of background.

Outcome 8

The Shire strategically manages the monitoring and review of the access and inclusion plan


8.1 The Access and Inclusion Reference Group meets biannually to monitor and review the Plan’s implementation

Biannual meetings are held

• The AIRG usually meets biannually through Senior Leadership Team Meetings, however this did not occur in 2016-17. All responsible officers are met with one-on-one throughout the year and in particular for compiling the DAIP report to the DSC each June.

8.2 Report progress towards implementation of the Plan

Statutory report to the Disability Services Commission, Shire's Annual Report and annual report to Council

• DAIP progress is reported quarterly through the operational plan to Council, and annually through the DSC’s DAIP Progress Report and the Shire’s Annual Report.

8.3 Review the Disability Access and

Inclusion Plan prior to the review of the Corporate Plan

DAIP is reviewed in late 2016 early 2017

• The Council’s Access and Inclusion Plan will be reviewed in 2017-18 financial year.

8.4 Review the Council’s Access and Inclusion Policy prior to the Corporate Plan

Review of the Shire's access policy and equity statements

• The Council’s Access and Inclusion Policy will be reviewed along with the DAIP in 2017-18 financial year.

Community Engagement Summary Access and Inclusion Plan October 2017

• Through the WA Disability Services Act (1993) it is a legal requirement for LocalGovernments to have a current Disability Access and Inclusion Plan (DAIP), with DAIPsto be reviewed at least every 5 years. The Shire’s current DAIP expires at the end of2017.

• To ensure all aspects of the Shires facilities and services are accessible and inclusivefor all our community, the Shire aims to develop an Access and Inclusion Plan (AIP),which incorporates and expands upon the standard requirements of a Disability Accessand Inclusion Plan.

• The purpose of this review is to ensure that the AIP not only meets legislativerequirements but it strategically addresses access and inclusion issues to the benefit ofall community members making the Shire a people friendly place to live, work and visit.

Background

An accessible and inclusive community is one in which all community members can access and are welcomed to participate in all Local Government functions, facilities and services (both in-house and contracted), in the same manner and with the same rights and responsibilities as other members of the community.

• Throughout September an online survey was advertised foryoursay.amrshire.wa.gov.au in the local paper, the Shire website andthrough the Pelican Post, Augusta. A hard copy survey was alsoavailable at the Margaret River and Augusta Shire AdministrationOffices and the Margaret River and Augusta Libraries.

What community engagement occurred?

• Face to face consultation was carried out via focus groups sessions in Augusta and Margaret River on the 20 September.

• Community consultation also occurred through Community Access and Inclusion Reference Group Meetings, emails and via phone in August and October.

http://www.yoursay.amrshire.wa.gov.au/

The community engagement successfully engaged with a wide rangeof community members, including:• People with a disability, carers, family members• Disability service providers and support workers• Dept. Communities Disability Services• HACC, WAPHA & Aged care providers• Disability Employment agencies• A range of community groups i.e.

the Uniting Church English Club• and representatives from the

Augusta and Margaret RiverCommunity Resource Centres.

Who were engaged?

Overall the findings indicate that the community are satisfied with the direction and achievements of the Shire within their role in access and inclusion. However more progress is required in a number of areas, with the key themes being:

What did the community say?

• Accessible parking; • Access to Shire buildings and facilities; and • Access to information in a variety of formats.

This report will present the findings of the community engagement against 7 different outcome areas

Outcome 1: Access to services and eventsWhat you told us:• Standing in line in the foyer is difficult • Youth events are not always inclusive and accessible • Lack of public transport hinders independence• Many community events are not very accessible due to location • Lack of accessible parking bays, particularly in prime locations

(Shire offices, Recreation Centre, Library, Zone Room, Main street, and busy tourist spots)

• Misuse of accessible parking bays, particularly in summer at busy tourist spots (Rivermouth, Surfers Point, Gnarabup)

• Need for gopher parking areas and security, particularly at bus stop in Augusta to facilitate independence

• Access to the beach • Need for low cost services for those experiencing financial

difficulties • Promote social gatherings for people with disability

Outcome 2: Access to buildings and facilities

What you told us:• Main street footpaths are hazardous , crossing Bussell

Hwy• Need for better footpaths, seating and shading at Shire

parks and reserves• Access to beaches are difficult• Need to consider colour contrasting on buildings for vision

impaired • Need for better lighting, particularly Main Street Augusta• Footpaths are narrow, particularly on bin days • Physical access in and around Shire buildings E.g. heavy

doors, height of desks, height of taps, doorway access

Outcome 3: Access to Information

What you told us:• Information can be too complex: need to keep it simple • Many people don’t use computers or emails • Provide information in a range of formats / languages • Consider people who are colour blind in publications • Request a room for front counter staff to use when dealing

with a customer who is deaf or hearing impaired (for information privacy)

Outcome 4: Shire staff awareness & skills

What you told us:• There is a varying level of skill with staff in providing good

customer service • Shire staff are generally well trained and welcoming • More training is needed for some staff in awareness of

disability, mental health, CALD and effective communication skills

• Seeing more people with a disability actually providing the services on the front line would help increase inclusivity and approachability

Outcome 5: Making complaints

What you told us:• Needs to be multiple ways of making a complaint• Need hard copy request forms available not just online• Better communication on when complaints/requests are

resolved and if not resolved, why • Transparent follow-up and accountability in outcomes

Outcome 6: Access to public consultations

What you told us:• Affordable public transport to attend public consultations • Flexibility with consultation rather than just one set forum

time • Consider use of language in promotion• Council need to balance the opinions of the loudest in the

community with those of the vulnerable or disenfranchised

Outcome 7: Employment

What you told us:• Long processes involved • Application through website; many people don’t use

computers or email • Not aware of opportunities • Lack of actual jobs available

Key themes:

• Fully accessible tourist destination• Increased recognition of our Indigenous

community• Diversity in employment and all businesses• Welcoming community for people of all

backgrounds including race, ability andlanguage

• Employment for people with disability,potential incentives for local businessesand increased media on success stories

• Ensuring all public infrastructure meetsaccessibility standards at a minimum

Previous community engagement

Key themes:• Availability of public transport• Condition and extent of footpaths• Seating in public places• Upgrade of the main street• Information in a variety of formats (not just

online)• Improvements to walking, cycle, gopher

tracks and paths• Desire for hydrotherapy pool in Margaret

River and improvements such as openingtimes, accessibility and condition of Augustahydrotherapy pool

Previous community engagement

Previous community engagementKey themes:• Improvements needed to public toilets in all

townsites• More playgrounds with accessibility features

for children with various abilities• Nature play that covers all ages and abilities• Margaret River Recreation Centre: Pool

accessibility for elderly and varied abilities, family change rooms, addition of a hydrotherapy pool

• Various accessibility features needed on Shire community facilities

As a result of this feedback from the community and inconsultation with the Community Access and Inclusion ReferenceGroup (CAIRG) the Shire will draft an Access and Inclusion Planfor 2018 - 22.

The next steps

The Plan will be based on theseven Outcomes set out by theDepartment of Communities,Disability Services of with eachoutcome considered via a numberof associated strategies. Thesestrategies will be designed toallow Council to respond tochanging needs and ensure theshire is an accessible and inclusiveplace to live, work and visit.

For more information regarding this project please contact:

Katie TaylorCommunity Development OfficerEmail: [email protected]: 9780 5233



11.4 Corporate and Community Services 11.4.6 MARGARET RIVER YOUTH PRECINCT CAFE

Attachment 1 – Expression of Interest – Margaret River Youth Precinct Cafe Attachment 2 – Site Plan of Proposed Leased Indoor and Licensed Outdoor Areas

Expression of Interest Margaret River Youth Precinct Café

October 2017



Contents

Introduction 1

General Information 1

Site information 2

Chattels 2

Fittings 3

Insurance 3

Form of the expression of interest 3

Deadline for expressions of interest 3

Lodgement of submissions and delivery 4

Legislation 4

Lease amount 4

Lease tenure 4

Contact information 5

Viewing 5



Alignment with Community Strategic Plan This document relates to Goal 2: Welcoming, inclusive and healthy communities in the Community Strategic Plan.

Goal 1 Valuing, protecting and enhancing the natural environment

Goal 2 Welcoming inclusive and healthy communities

Goal 3 Ensuring sustainable development

Goal 4 Vibrant and diverse economy

Goal 5 Effective leadership and governance



Expression of Interest: Margaret River Youth Precinct Café

Introduction The Shire of Augusta-Margaret River (“the Shire”) invites expression of interest (“EOI”) from suitably qualified and experienced parties for the operation of a café/skate shop and for the redevelopment of the facility to operate in an expanded capacity within the current building.

The facility is a part of the Zone Room building with private lockable access. There are plans to develop the external north facing decking to include an undercover area with a functional servery. In the past, the facility has been used for general hire for start-up food enterprises. The facility has undergone renovations to improve its commerciality and will require further fit out by the operator before it is available to open for trade.

A site overview is attached at Annexure A with the facility delineated.

Council is supportive of the Margaret River Youth Precinct and is interested in discussing a range of options with interested operators to ensure the business is a success.

Expressions of Interest are invited from suitable applicants to consider the various options available.

a) Lease Café b) Skate shop/other

The Shire encourages submissions wishing to operate at this location to look at options to redevelop the facility in an expanded capacity.

Respondents need to be aware of the social and cultural significance of the site and any alterations or redevelopment will need to be in the character of the property and to the community’s expectations and comply with the relevant statutes and Council approvals.

Any lease subsequent to this Expression of Interest process will be required to be entered into between the successful party, the Shire and the State Government in accordance with the provisions of the Local Government Act 1995 and the Land Administration Act 1997

General Information The Shire of Augusta Margaret River is a popular tourist destination known for its rural landscapes, scenic forests, national parks, caves, restaurants, galleries, coastal scenery, beaches, excellent surf, and for its vineyards and wines.

The beaches and surfing are important attractions, bringing in a large number of visitors. The local wine industry has experienced strong growth and the region is recognised as a producer of premium wines. As with any area catering to thousands of tourist each year, the Shire has a significant accommodation and hospitality sector.

There is also substantial farming activity, primarily beef and dairy, along with sheep farming, horticulture, viticulture and agro-forestry. Value adding of produce is significant, with locally made dairy products and boutique gourmet ranges widely available.



The community of Augusta Margaret River now has a population of 14,687 and 3,724 families (2016 ABS Census). There is an annual average growth rate of 3.7% from 2011-2016 with population expected to increase to 17,500 in 2026.

The Margaret River Youth Precinct is undergoing a major redevelopment with over $2 million dollars of improvements planned for the site. This major transformation will see an expansion of skate, scooter and BMX facilities within the park as well as the addition of a new raised stage area for music events, parkour and play equipment, BBQ areas, shade, landscaping, spectator seating, public toilets and much more.

An overview of the site is attached in Annexure A. Concept plans and project details can be viewed on the Shire’s website at http://yoursay.amrshire.wa.gov.au/margies-youth-precinct A site visit is encouraged for a current impression of the site.

Site information The Margaret River Youth Precinct is located at 31 Wallcliffe Road, Margaret River. A location map of the site is attached to this document as Attachment A.

The Shire has no objection to the intended use and development of the facility including as a Café providing:

1. The development and use of the land is kept within the social and cultural theme of the overall Precinct; 2. Does not adversely impact upon the community usage of the Zone Room and public access to the enjoyment of the Youth Precinct and 3. Any revenue raised from leasing arrangements is used for the capital and maintenance and upkeep of the Precinct.

This location is to continue to be used as a precinct for youth and families.

The Margaret River Youth Precinct is undergoing a major redevelopment with concept plans available and attached to this document as Attachment A. This concept plan includes over $2million dollars of improvements to the site. The major transformation will see an expansion of skate, scooter and BMX facilities within the park as well as the addition of a new raised stage area for music events, parkour and play equipment, BBQ areas, , landscaping, spectator seating, public toilets and much more.

Scope of works specific to improving the facility for lease include:

Plumbing provisions, supply and installation of a grease trap Plumbing provision, for future commercial dishwasher Food waste compound with wash down capability New parking south of the primary entrance with increased ACROD provisions

Chattels The following is a list of the services which are provided by the Shire:

a) Prime town centre location

b) Kitchen space

c) Deck and outdoor area for customers

e) Public toilets

f) Water and Power (lessee responsible for consumption costs)



g) Landscaped and maintained gardens

h) Food waste compound

Fittings Proponents are advised that their own chattels will be required to operate and develop the business as fit for purpose for the successful leaseholder.

Insurance Any successful proponents, must as leaseholder, indemnify the Shire from any claims arising from the operation of the facility. The leaseholder will also be required to maintain current public liability insurance to the Shire’s satisfaction.

Form of the expression of interest Respondents submitting an expression of interest will be required to address the following criteria in writing and must include all information requested within this document to be considered, including:

The full details (name, address and contact details) of all parties involved in the Registration of Interest.

Detail any previous experience within the hospitality industry with particular emphasis in operating a café/skate shop business.

Provide the contact details of no less than two (2) suitable referees that are able to provide independent feedback to the Shire.

Where redevelopment of the facility is proposed, a detailed assessment of the type, scale, design layout and function of the proposal is required by site plan for both indoor and outdoor spaces. Whilst the respondents will not be expected to submit detailed designs at this stage any preferred applicant will be required to submit concept drawings and designs for approval prior to formal appointment by the Shire as the lessee of the facility.

Identify any upgrades that may required to the building.

Demonstrate a financial capacity to operate a business of this type.

Detail the proposed business operation, including opening days, hours and staffing structures.

Rent amount proponent is prepared to pay for the lease.

All criteria is considered desirable and to ensure a balanced assessment all submissions should provide the above information.

Deadline for expressions of interest The Deadline for Registration of Interest is 4pm, insert day, month, year.

Submissions will be rejected without consideration in the event that:

It is not submitted before the Deadline; or It is not submitted at the place specified in the Expression of Interest; or It fails to comply with any other requirements of the Expression of Interest.



Lodgement of submissions and delivery The submission must be lodged by the Deadline. The submission is to be:

Placed in a sealed envelope clearly endorsed with the Expression of Interest number and title as shown on the front cover of this Expression of Interest; and

o Delivered by hand to 41 Wallcliffe Road, Margaret River 6285 (by the Respondent or the Respondent’s private agent) or,

o Sent through the mail addressed to the Chief Executive Officer P.O Box 61, Margaret River 6285 WA

Or:

Electronic mail submissions will be accepted. Respondents must use email [email protected]

Legislation The Local Government Act 1995 requires that the disposal of any local government property (including by way of lease) is required to be advertised in the event that the local government has agreed the method and terms of disposal without having utilised a tender or auction process.

As such, respondents are advised that following successful negotiation with any party with respect to obtaining a lease, the Shire will undertake a statutory period of advertising (minimum period of 14 days) and must consider a submission made with respect to this matter before it is able to enter into any legal agreement with the preferred party. The annual lease rental will be determined by a market valuation.

Lease amount The rent will be negotiated under a lease arrangement in accordance with section 3.58 of the Local Government Act 1995 and the term of the lease is negotiable, but will be a minimum of five (5) years inclusive of options.

Revenue raised from rent from this facility will be allocated to the Youth Facilities Reserve in the Shire’s annual budget to contribute to ongoing capital and maintenance requirements of youth facilities across the Shire.

The Shire has conducted a market evaluation through an independent provider in alignment with the Retail Tenancy Agreement. The specified market rental price is XXX. Offers higher than this amount will be considered as part of the selection process.

Lease tenure The minimum lease will be for five (5) years and a maximum lease available is twenty one (21) years. The term of the lease will be negotiated in conjunction with rent and considered as part of the selection process. Proponents are encouraged to include any tenure requirements in their Registration of Interest.



Contact information General enquiries should be directed to:

Kirstie Davis, Coordinator Community Planning and Development Ph: 9780 5259 Nigel Anderson, Manager Human and Community Services Ph: 9780 5227

Canvassing of Councillors during or following the completion of the Registration of Interest period will disqualify.

Viewing The site can be viewed by appointment by contacting Kirstie Davis or Nigel Anderson on the numbers above.


Appendix A: This is an image of the site. Please note the site will be undergoing substantial redevelopment and landscaping. A site visit is encouraged for a current impression of the site.

Office

Storage

LadiesMens

Duct

Accessible

Recreation room

Dining room

ServeryChangeroom

WC

Kitchen

Pantry

LockableStorage

Future Gazebo

Verandah

Verandah

Outdoor Openair

Outdoor Undercover

Indoor Leased/Lockable


11.4 Corporate and Community Services 11.4.7 TENDER 03/17 MARGARET RIVER YOUTH PRECINCT

DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION

Attachment 1 – Design Development and Budget Presentation, Margaret

River Youth Precinct, December 2017

MARGARET RIVER YOUTH PRECINCT

DD01.17038.01

DESIGN DEVELOPMENT + BUDGET PRESENTATION DECEMBER 2017

2 DESIGN DEVELOPMENT + BUDGET PRESENTATION | MARGARET RIVER YOUTH PRECINCT

HYD

ROLOGY

GEOLOGY

Majestic surf, rhythmic rolling waves, pristine beaches and delicate rock pools set along a rugged coastline, shaped and formed over time by powerful water processes. The waterline that shapes many a youthful adventure.

Limestone cave formations, attract from far and wide. Okra, oranges and yellow. Formations carved over time, the timeless drip of water through strata layers. Stalactites formed over time, still waters reflect the tranquil beauty of these collective caves.

Rich soils, a mild climate help provide abundance in an idyllic setting. The rolling lands shaped by artisan hands, fresh produce and a vintage crop. A clean, pure growing region providing for everyone across the land. The liquid fruits of many a hard toil.

IDEATION

AGROLO

GY


IDEATION COLOURS

GEOLOGY Okra and yellow, sculptured over time from the earth above. Bright, soft limestone delicately formed. Mellow, grounded, sprightly and youthful. A beacon, open and gentle, but most of all welcoming in its warmth.

AGROLOGY Fruits of the earth, crimson, shades of red, vibrant, and wholesome. Bountiful, full of body and abundance. Vivacious, , passionate, full of exuberant energy. Bold, fearless, unencumbered and free.

HYDROLOGY Aqua marine, shades of blue, to the deep depths below. Glistening rock pools, delicate marine life, sculptured water homes, rich with life, rising from a deep, charcoal sea. Strong, bold, absorbing and encompassing.

CCS INTEGRAL COLOUR + DULUX WEATHERMAX CCS INTEGRAL COLOUR + DULUX WEATHERMAX CCS INTEGRAL COLOUR + DULUX WEATHERMAX

CCS LIMESTONE FULL DEPTH COLOUR CONCRETEGrey Cement

CCS MULBERRY FULL DEPTH COLOUR CONCRETEGrey Cement

CCS GOTHIC BLUE FULL DEPTH COLOUR CONCRETEGrey Cement

WAX WAYS15F5

PINK PARAKEETS48H7

HARTS GREYSG6E5


CONCRETE FINISHES The extensive, vibrantly coloured concrete begins at the periphery at the beginners pump track and extends inwards to the skate parks platforms and bases. Providing an interesting tapestry of shades that reflect the Margaret River region.

The vibrancy helps articulate entry points, level changes and feature skate elements. This intern is juxtaposed by the neutral grey tones of the transitions and vertical planes.

The gathering spaces adjacent to the zone room and toilet block are highlighted by water washed, exposed aggregate, decorative concrete.

CONCRETE COLOURS

PORTLAND GREY

CCS LIMESTONE

PORTLAND GREY EXPOSED WATER WASH FINISH

CCS MULBERRY

CCS GOTHIC BLUE


SURFACE MATERIALS The concrete works are complemented with paint finishes in the same shades as the integrally coloured concrete. These painted finishes occur on select metal work throughout the youth precinct, as well as on feature elements within the skate zone.

The picnic area ground plane comprises a compacted, decorative granitic gravel for ease of movement and maintenance. Likewise the area adjacent to the carparking has a different shade of compacted, decorative granitic gravel to help articulate the entry from the east.

The ground plane of the nature play zone to the south is made up of softfall mulch. While the performance area below the shelter, adjacent to the zone room comprises timber decking.

SURFACES

STAGE TIMBER DECKING

NATURE PLAY SOFTFALL MULCH

DULUX WAX WAY

COMPACTED GRANITIC GRAVEL 1

DULUX PINK PARAKEET

COMPACTED GRANITIC GRAVEL 2

DULUX HARTS GREY


SHELTER NO. 1 GALVANISED / PAINTED STRUCTUREGREY TRICOYA CLADDING PALSUN CLEAR POLYCARBONATE

•

•

•

SHELTER NO. 2 GALVANISED / PAINTED STRUCTUREGREY TRICOYA CLADDING PALSUN CLEAR POLYCARBONATE

•

•

•

REFUGE AREAS The MRYP has 2 proposed shelters. The first is located on the west side of the skate park, near the bowl. The second is located adjacent to the Zone Room, covering the performance stage.

Both shelters are iconic in form, the design resembling the formation and motion of a barrel wave. Huge rolled structural beams will be clad in waterproof cladding, with polycarbonate sunlit openings.

SHELTERS

2

1

1

2


FURNITURE ELEMENTS

AMENITY Furniture elements with the MYRP include amenities associated with the picnic area. These include BBQ facilities, picnic settings, drink fountain and bins. These amenities will have highlight paint elements in accordance with the nominated paint colours. A drink fountain and bins are also located in the skate area adjacent to shelter no. 1.

There is also a skate and bike repair station located at the northwest entry to the skate park.

The flood lighting surrounding the skate park has a mix of galvanised and feature painted light poles in keeping with the vibrancy and coordinated painting of metal work throughout the MRYP.

BBQ DDA COMPLIANT

PICNIC SETTING DDA COMPLIANT

BIKE/SKATE REPAIR STATION

PICNIC SETTING COLOURED LEGS

DRINK FOUNTAIN DDA COMPLIANT

PING PONG TABLE

DUAL BINS COLOURED LIDS

SPORTS LIGHTING COLOURED POLES

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

1

4

2

6

7

3

3

3

5

6

7

8

8

8


NATURE PLAY + PARKOUR

PLAY The southern section of the MRYP will have a dynamic nature play and parkour zone. These areas allow children to touch and interact with the natural environment, which has clear physical benefits for developing children including helping children to acquire gross motor skills and helping eye-hand coordination. These areas also allow for skill progression and play for youths of all ages.

CLIMBING LOGS

STEPPING STUMPS

BOULDERS

PARKOUR WALLS

PARKOUR RAIL

SANDPIT

TREE TRUNK ROPE PLAY

SLIDES 1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

8

1

2

6

7

7

4

4

43

5

5


SENSORY PLAY

SENSORY ELEMENTS An important component within the nature play zone is the incorporation of sensory play items. This helps youth express themselves through percussion, rhythm and movement.

The sensory play items are located and immersed within the nature play environment offering a degree of discovery as youths move through the various play environments.

CAJON DRUM SET

COLOSSUS CHIMES

BABEL DRUM

MARIMBA 1

2

3

4

1

2

4

3


LANDSCAPE

SOFTSCAPE WORKS The landscape works within the MYRP are extensive, complementing and softening the concrete skate park works, as well as dividing the variety of user spaces. Extensive tree planting added to existing copse of trees surrounding the MYRP, will provide much needed additional shading.

This is complimented by extensive native species, groundcover / shrub garden bed planting, surrounding the skate park.

Lawn areas are provided adjacent to the stage area and at the perimeter of the MRYP, providing an inviting destination for the entire community.

BOULDERS

LAWN

GARDEN BED

NEW TREES


MRYP 3D MODEL

xhttps://www.kubity.com/p/J1VvWM

https://www.kubity.com/p/J1VvWM

https://www.kubity.com/p/J1VvWM


BUDGET BASE CURRENT POSITION

BUDGET The project budget at the end of the design development phase did not allow for integral elements of the MRYP. These included, shelter no. 2, the stage timber decking, slides, nature play elements, sensory play items, skate/bike repair station, softfall mulch, trees, feature planting and turf.

NO SENSORY PLAY

SOFTFALL MULCH

NO ENTRY SIGN

MINIMAL SOFT LANDSCAPE WORKS

MINIMAL NATURE PLAY

NO STAGE TIMBER DECKING

NO SHELTER NO. 2 1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1

2

6

7

7

8

7

5

5

3

4

4

7


BUDGET WITH EXTRA $150,000

BUDGET Council will provide an additional $150,000 to help fund listed items currently outside the funded scope of works.

1 NO. SLIDE

300MM SOFTFALL MULCH + ADDITIONAL NATURE PLAY

ENTRY SIGN

CLIMBING WALL + GRIPPERS

SANDPIT

TREE TRUNK ROPES

SHELTER NO. 2 1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1

6

7

2

4

35


BUDGET FUTURE STAGE WORKS

BUDGET Items listed are currently not within the scope of works. These will be added when funding is secured as part of future stage works.

1 NO. SLIDE

PING PONG TABLE

50% TREES

600 M2 TURF

ADDITIONAL SOFT LANDSCAPE XANTHORRHOEA

STAGE TIMBER DECKING

SENSORY PLAY ELEMENTS 1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1

1

1

1

6

6

7

2

4

3

5

5

5

5


MARGARET RIVER YOUTH PRECINCT

YIPPEE! This is the comprehensive design with all stages of works delivered. When fully completed MRYP will include the skate park, amenities, all elements of nature play and sensory play, parkour, performance space and all softscape works.