AAnnnnuuaall RReeppoorrtt 22001155//1166...Carrathool Shire Council Annual Report 2015 – 2016 Page...

AAnnnnuuaall RReeppoorrtt

22001155//1166

“Promoting our future through diversity”

Carrathool Shire Council Annual Report 2015 – 2016

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Table of Contents

Details Page

Message from the Mayor ................................................................................................................ 3

General Manager ............................................................................................................................ 4

Key Statements .............................................................................................................................. 5

Our Shire ........................................................................................................................................ 6

Elected Council ............................................................................................................................... 7

Organisation Structure .................................................................................................................... 8

Performance Highlights ................................................................................................................... 9

Financial Results ......................................................................................................................... 9 Integrated Planning and Reporting ............................................................................................ 10 Council Meetings ...................................................................................................................... 10 Local Government Reform ........................................................................................................ 10 Freeze on Indexation of Financial Assistance Grants ................................................................ 10 Public Works ............................................................................................................................. 11 Roads ....................................................................................................................................... 11 Plant & Fleet ............................................................................................................................. 14 Footpaths, Kerb and Guttering and Street Trees ....................................................................... 14 Buildings and Public Amenities ................................................................................................. 15 Aerodromes .............................................................................................................................. 15 Water Supplies .......................................................................................................................... 15 Sewerage Services ................................................................................................................... 15 Floodplain Management ............................................................................................................ 16 Swimming Pools ....................................................................................................................... 16 Reserves, Parks & Gardens ...................................................................................................... 17 Caravan Parks .......................................................................................................................... 17 Cemeteries ............................................................................................................................... 17 Waste Management - Landfills .................................................................................................. 17 Development and Building Control ............................................................................................ 18 Noxious Weed Control .............................................................................................................. 18 Aged and Disability Services ..................................................................................................... 19 Library Services ........................................................................................................................ 20 Human Resource Activities ....................................................................................................... 25

Statutory Reporting ....................................................................................................................... 29

Rates and Charges Written Off ................................................................................................. 29 Details of Overseas Travel by Councillors, Staff or Others ........................................................ 29 Total Amount Expended on Councillor Facilities or Expenses ................................................... 29 Contracts Awarded.................................................................................................................... 29 Legal Proceedings .................................................................................................................... 30 Works on Private Land .............................................................................................................. 30 Section 356 Contributions and Grants ....................................................................................... 30 External Bodies ......................................................................................................................... 31 Corporations, Partnerships, Trusts & Joint Ventures ................................................................. 31 Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) ...................................................................................... 31 Remuneration Packages ........................................................................................................... 32 Storm Water Management Services .......................................................................................... 32 Coastal Protection Services ...................................................................................................... 32 State of the Environment Report ............................................................................................... 32 Environmental Upgrade Agreements ........................................................................................ 32


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Capital Works Projects .............................................................................................................. 33 Companion Animals Act & Regulation Activities ........................................................................ 33 Government Information (Public Information) Access Act 2009 ................................................. 34 Privacy and Personal Information Protection Act 1998 .............................................................. 34 Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 .................................................................. 34 Public Interest Disclosure Act 1997 ........................................................................................... 34 Carers Recognition Act 2010 .................................................................................................... 34

COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN END OF TERM REPORT FOR 2012 - 2016 .......................... 35

ANNUAL FINANCIAL STATEMENTS ......................................................................................... 104

STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT 2016 ....................................................................... 235


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Message from the Mayor

It is with pleasure to introduce Council’s Annual Report for 2015/16. Submitting our Fit for the Future proposal was an exhaustive process and like many Council’s across the state, we spent a great deal of time and energy preparing our case addressing the State Governments Local Government Reform Criteria. I would like to thank all the staff of the organisation who worked so diligently ensuring our proposal supported the case for Carrathool as a “Fit for the Future” Council. There is still work to be undertaken to ensure we stay fit for the future. The Council continues to progress infrastructure developments on our roads, water and sewer and of note was the completion of the “toddlers” pool at Hillston being stage 1 of the complete redevelopment of the Hillston Swimming Pool

Complex. Funding has been received for the replacement of the Carrathool Bridge (approx $15 M) and the Council is further seeking funding to seal the entire length of Carrathool Road. It was with sadness that the community and Council lost one of its own in Councillor Margaret Merrylees and it was appropriate that the Council was able to present a Certificate recognising her time as a Councillor for the Carrathool Shire. An election was held in September 2016 and it is appropriate to acknowledge the retirement of long serving Councillors, Jim Caughey and Vincent Cashmere and their contributions to the community. I certainly welcome new Councillors Bev Furner, Scott Groat and Brett Lewis to the fold and trust that they enjoy their time as a Councillor for the Carrathool Community. The Council continues to recieve applications for “Chicken” developments and other agricultural pursuits which sees Carrathool Shire Council not just a sleepy rural Council. In closing I am confident of the future of the Council and it is in good hands, to meet the needs of the community. Cr Peter Laird Mayor


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General Manager

The past 12 months will be remembered as a watershed year as Council laid the foundation for future growth with its commitment to infrastructure projects (Hillston Pool Complex, Carrathool Bridge, Hillston Levee) of shire wide benefit and of utmost importance saw the Council being deemed as “Fit for the Future” and the destiny of the Council as stand alone is assured at this time. Internally the Council concluded the strategic plan and is looking forward to the development of a new plan with the community in the next reporting period. An organisation review was undertaken to realign the Council’s Corporate Structure to focus upon the customer and the communities which make up the Carrathool Shire Council. The year ahead is sure to present new challenges both from a funding and delivery models, however, I am confident that the work undertaken in the past will hold the Council in good stead as the challenges are met and surpassed. The Carrathool Council is blessed to have a Mayor and Councillors who care about their community and are committed to the longevity of the Council. The Council is well served by the committed staff who want to progress the community in which they live and work for. I trust you find this report informative and I encourage you to continue to participate in Councils activities in the year ahead.

Phil Marshall GENERAL MANAGER


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Key Statements

Council’s motto is as follows:

“Promoting our future through diversity” Council’s vision reflects what we are trying to achieve:

“Carrathool Shire Council's VISION is to protect and promote quality of life with economic development and environmental sensitivity.”

The vision is the long term planning focus of council. Council’s mission reflects what we will do to achieve the vision:

“Council’s MISSION is to provide the community of Carrathool Shire with cost effective works, services and planning”

The principles (values) that reflect the way we do business are presented below. Values:

Honest, open, objective and accountable decision making; Our diverse communities; Responsiveness to community needs; Open, fair and practical business relationships; Cost effective and commercially competitive service delivery, and Continuous improvement and best value in everything we do.


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Our Shire

Carrathool Shire is a large rural Shire having an area of 19,000 square kilometres and five urban centres including the town of Hillston and the villages of Goolgowi (Council headquarters), Merriwagga, Carrathool and Rankins Springs. It is traversed by the Murrumbidgee and Lachlan Rivers as well as the Mid Western Highway and the Kidman Way. Willandra, Cocoparra and Nombinnie National Parks are also a feature of the area.

All villages except Merriwagga are serviced by public schools with Hillston providing a Convent School and a Central School to year 12. Secondary education is also provided at the city of Griffith 50 kilometres in distance from Goolgowi. The shire is serviced by hospital and medical services in Hillston and Griffith. Hillston also boasts a well stocked library.

The town and villages feature excellent recreation facilities which have been established with a great deal of community effort and pride. Hillston and Goolgowi have 25 metre swimming pools (solar heated) which operate for 22 weeks of the year. Modern playground equipment is provided for each township and village.

Whilst still predominantly an agricultural based shire, we have diversified greatly from small dryland cereal growing and large grazing pursuits to irrigation crops such as cotton, walnuts, olives, rice, corn, cherries, vegetables, potatoes, and citrus. A cotton gin operates north of Hillston and a new gin has been established to the south of the Murrumbidgee River that services the southern end of the shire. An olive processing plant has also been established west of Goolgowi. Despite the uncertainty of water security and the water buyback program under the proposed Murray Darling Basin Plan, the shire is currently enjoying significant development. Several large poultry farms are in production with a number of new farms being constructed at this time. Development is occuring all over the Shire with the diversification from broad acre farms to intensive nut production, such as almonds and walnuts.

It is hoped that renewed interest in development will bring people to the shire. Despite the challenges the shire continues to progress quality of life for its constituents.

The name Carrathool is derived from an Aboriginal word meaning “Native Companion” a native bird which was once common along the Murrumbidgee River where the shire headquarters was first based. The original inhabitants of the Carrathool area were the Wiradjuri Aboriginal people.


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Elected Council

Mayor Councillor Peter Laird Ward E

Councillor Jim Caughey Ward C

Councillor Vince Cashmere Ward E

Councillor Russell Campbell Ward B

Councillor Bill Kite Ward C

Deputy Mayor

Councillor Darryl Jardine Ward A

Councillor Margaret Merrylees Ward B

Councillor M Armstrong Ward A

Councillor David Fensom Ward D

Councillor Geoff Peters Ward D


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Organisation Structure

The organisation structure is aligned under three directorates with a staff complement of 92 full time equivalent.

(10 Councillors)

General Manager

Director Infrastructure

Services

Director Development

Services

Planning

Building control

Health services

Waste management

Animal control

Cemetery management

Noxious weeds

Aged & disability services

Swimming pools

Financial management

Information technology

Insurances

Asset management

Library services

Community development

Risk management

Administration & governance

Records management

Secretarial services

Customer service

Director Corporate & Community

Services

Plant & fleet

management

Town & village maintenance

Infrastructure management

Aerodromes

Garbage services

Road construction

Road maintenance

Asset management

Water supply schemes

Sewer schemes

Human resources management


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Performance Highlights

Financial Results

Council reported an operating surplus before capital grants and contributions of $3.36 million for the year ended 30 June 2016 (2015 – surplus of $2.72 million).

Excluding capital grants and contributions, operating revenues for the year ($19.73 million) increased approximately 19.83% on those of the previous year ($16.46 million), whilst during the same period operating expenses ($16.37 million), including depreciation expenses of $4.06 million, increased approximately 19.08%.

A breakdown of Council’s operating revenues and expenses for the year is as follows:

In addition to operating revenues, Council received capital grants and contributions amounting to $678,000 (2015 - $2.13 million).

In the twelve month period to 30 June 2016 Council’s operating result from continuing operations (including capital grants and contributions) was a surplus of $4.03 million compared with a surplus of $4.84 million in the previous year.

For further financial information including the Audit Report please refer to the Financial Statements attached to this report.


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Integrated Planning and Reporting - Section 428(1)

Council's Community Stategic Plan (10 year plan) and Delivery Plan (4 year plan) and underpinning Resource Strategy, comprising the Workforce Plan, Asset Management Plans and Long Term Financial Plan, were implemented in 2011/2012. With the election of a new Council in September 2012, the new Council conducted a second round of community consultations and subsequently revised its Community Strategic Plan and Delivery Plan.

Council reports bi-annually on its performance against the Delivery Plan in April and October each year.

The key issues identified as the challenges facing Carrathool Shire over the next ten years are:

water security

changing demographic, aging population, young people moving from the district

economic constraints

Government regulations

Managing the balance between community expectations and Council's ability to deliver.

Council's achievements in implementing its Delivery Program are detailed in the attached Performance Report (Appendix 1).

Council Meetings

Eleven ordinary council meetings were held during 2015/2016. Council continued to hold its meetings on the third Tuesday in the month, with meetings commencing at 10.00 am.

In accordance with Council policy one meeting per annum is conducted in an urban centre other than the shire headquarters in Goolgowi. The July, November and March meetings were held at the Hillston District Office.

Council continued to actively pursue lobbying for the sustainability of local communities under the Murray Darling Basin Plan, effective use of and rating of National Parks and vacant Crown lands and the financial sustainability of Local Government.

Local Government Reform

The Council was found Fit for the Future and was not recommended to merge with Griffith City Council. Council has commenced with it’s Fit for the Future Action Plan which should be completed during 2016/17.

Freeze on Indexation of Financial Assistance Grants

Financial Assistance Grants (FAGS) are an important untied payment to councils from the Australian Federal Government and are invested in essential community infrastructure and services ranging from local roads and parks to swimming pools and libraries. These grants are a vital part of the revenue base for council with Carrathool Shire Council receiving $5,148,023 for 2015/2016, consisting of $3,005,279 for general purposes and $2,142,675 for local roads. In the 2013-2014 Federal Budget, the Commonwealth Government froze indexation of the FAGs for three years. This will result in a permanent reduction in the FAGs base by 13% (approximately $640,700 for Carrathool Shire Council). Council resolved to support the Australian Local Government Association in its campaign to highlight the importance of the maintenance of FAGs levels to local government.


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Public Works

Council owns, operates and maintains many public works facilities including the following:

Roads

Bridges, culverts and stormwater drains

Footpaths, kerb and gutters and street trees

Buildings and public amenities

Aerodromes

Flood mitigation levees

Reserves, parks and gardens

Water treatment works and reticulation systems

Sewer treatment works and reticulation systems

Caravan parks

Cemeteries

Swimming pools

Garbage disposal sites.

Special Schedule 7 of the Financial Statements contained within Appendix 2 contains financial information in relation to the condition of Council assets. The estimated cost to bring public works up to a satisfactory standard is $4.82 million. The required annual maintenance cost of public works for 2015/2016 is $3.69 million. The current annual maintenance cost of public works for 2015/2016 was $3.35 million.

Roads

The Shire’s geographic area of 19,000 square kilometres includes a total of 2,941 km; 303 km are State Highways under the control of Roads and Maritime NSW (RMS), and the balance of 2,638 km are controlled by Council. The figure below depicts the road ownership within the Shire. The 303 km of RMS roads includes the following State Highways

State Highway Name Length KM Kidman Way 148 Burley Griffin Way (MR84S) 9 Mid Western Highway 123 Cobb Highway 24

Total 303 Council manages the maintenance activities for the Kidman Way and Burley Griffin Way on behalf of RMS; a total of 157 km. The Shire has road lengths of approximately 2,638 kms of which 565 kms are sealed and 2,073 kms unsealed. Council's local roads works are programmed in accordance with the Local Roads Hierarchy.


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A Road Hierarchy is a classification system used to group similar road categories to enable dividing a transport network based on vehicle carrying capacity and function. The latter is typically assessed in terms of access (provide access to property) and mobility (cater for through traffic). The Higher road class in the hierarchy is related to an increase in the mobility function. On the other hand, the lower road class on the hierarchy list are more focused on providing access to property. The road hierarchy provides the basis on which inspection regimes are developed and the maintenance programs are developed. It plays an important role in improving the efficiency and management of the Council road network. A summary of Council road hierarchy for the road network within the Shire is listed below.

Ranking Classification Role Examples Length - km

1 Regional Road Provide both internal connectivity within the Shire and external connectivity to neighbouring areas and regions

Mossgiel Rd 314

2 Link Road Provides internal connectivity that supplements the State Highways and Regional Roads

Back Hillston Rd 697

3 Strategic Link Road

Provide access to a unique land use within the Shire (national parks), intensive farming (chicken farms, walnuts, watermelon)

Merrondale Lane 78

4 Collector Road Provides a mixed function that includes traffic mobility and property access

Mitchells Rd 247

5 Local Road Provide access to property and residence

Jardines Rd 903

6 Local Road - No Maintenance Provides safe access to farms, and fire fighting vehicles

Five Oaks Rd 340

7 Township Road Council Roads within the townships of Hillston – Goolgowi – Merriwagga – Carrathool – Rankins Springs

60

The percentage of the total length of shire roads for each of the above categories is depicted in the Figure below.

The above data shows that Link Road and Local Road categories represent 60% of the total shire network.


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During 2015/2016 the following works were undertaken:

Road Name Type

Length - km

Exp

Murrumbidgee River Road Pavement Rehabilitation 2.13 $470,717

Molesworth Road - Hillston Pavement Rehabilitation 0.327 $51,789

Collins St - Hillston Pavement Rehabilitation 0.114 $7,263

Byron St - Hillston Pavement Rehabilitation 0.339 $34,526

Erigolia Road Pavement Widening 1.5 $282,914

Mitchells Road Resheeting 3 $100,000

Mossgiel Road Resheeting - Pavement Stabilisation 13 $200,000

Murrumbidgee River Road Seal Extension 2.00 $530,107

Pinteebakana Road Seal Extension 1.1 $176,809

Roto Road Seal Extension 2.2 $515,536

Mossgiel Road Seal Extension 2.2 $526,526

MR368R - (Rankins Spring End) Seal Extension 2.0 $431,222

Other works undertaken include pavement repair, mowing, pavement sweeping, guide posting, weed control, rest area maintenance, inspections, litter removal and storm damage repair work. Maintaining the extensive road network to a satisfactory standard continues to be Council's main focus within the Infrastructure Structure Department. This is being managed through rigorous planning. Resheeting – MR80R Mossgiel Road Maintenance Grading – Melbergen Road

High Street Hillston – almost complete


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Other major projects included:

Kidman Way (MR 410, MR 80) reseal

Local and regional road reseals. Roadside clean ups of regional roads have been undertaken by volunteer groups across the shire as a fundraising activity

Kidman Way Roadside Cleanup Group

Plant & Fleet

Council maintains a large plant and fleet program in order to undertake the scale of construction and maintenance contained in the Roads & Maritime Services (RMS) Routine Maintenance Council Contract and for Council's regional and local roads. Major plant items purchased during 2015/2016 include: an industrial ammenities van, combination road roller, bogie drive tipping truck, 2 new tractors, GPS guidance system for a grader, and a ride on mower. Along with various vehicle replacements and workshop equipment. The total net amount of plant purchases for the year was $1.369 million.

Footpaths, Kerb and Guttering and Street Trees

Hillston Township

- Footpath – High Street - Hillston Hillston Fire Station Shed to Railway Line

- Footpath – Charney St - Merriwagga

- Kerb & Gutter – Molesworth Street – Hillston

– Collins Street – Hillston

– Regent Street

High Street Hillston Charney Street Merriwagga Hillston


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Buildings and Public Amenities

Council controls land and buildings valued at $24 million. This includes the construction of a new dwelling in Goolgowi and the major refurbishments on a number of other dwellings and commercial buildings. The age and condition of the built assets are variable, however, they are all considered fit for purpose at this time. Regular maintenance to all public facilities will ensure they are kept in such a way that all health, accessibility and safety standards are addressed.

Aerodromes

Council provides two airfields to service the shire. These are key assets supporting economic activity, health and emergency services. A grass strip landing area is maintained in Goolgowi. Hillston has a sealed 18 m wide and 1,300 m long strip with an unsealed cross strip. The 06-24 sealed strip has a Pilot Activated Lighting System which enables the Royal Flying Doctor Service and Air Ambulance and other aviators to use the strip at night. The frequency used to trigger the lights is 120.05. Hillston also has an amenities block at the apron at the end of a 7.4 m wide 100 m long taxiway. Regular inspection, reporting and maintenance were undertaken during 2015/2016.

Water Supplies

Council’s objective is to supply a high drinking standard, clean, safe and secure water supply to the community. Council supplies potable water to Hillston, Goolgowi, Merriwagga and Carrathool. Rankins Springs has a reticulated non-potable supply. Council was successful in acquiring funding through the NSW Government’s Restart NSW Water Security for Regions Program for the design, installation and commissioning of a new potable water treatment plant and reticulation system for the Rankins Springs village. Council will also utilise these funds to complete rehabilitation and upgrade works on the Rankins Springs storage dam. Construction for the system is well underway and is expected to be completed in early 2017. Urban water schemes were regularly tested for microbiological and chemical quality during 2015/2016. No non-compliances were reported for any of the potable schemes. Council staff have completed training and participated in workshops with the NSW Office of Water on Council's obligations to meet the Australian Drinking Water Management Guidelines. These workshops and associated surveys are part of Council's statutory obligations to provide quality water to communities. Council has completed some major capital works in 2015/2016 with the replacement of water mains work undertaken at several locations, New Switchboard Bunda and Aerator Replacement at Gunbar.

Sewerage Services

Council operates a P1000 Pasveer channel sewerage treatment plant at Hillston and oxidation ponds at Goolgowi and Rankins Springs. Rankins Springs has a common effluent drainage system. The systems in place are designed to efficiently collect, transport and treat the sewage and liquid wastes of the community in an efficient and cost effective manner. Achievements during 2015/2016 included continued relining of sections of Hillston's sewer lines which will extend the lifespan of the lines for a further 20 years.


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As no Council sewer treatment plants discharge to receiving waters there is no requirement for an Environmental Protection Authority licence. Overall the sewer treatment plants and reticulation systems are in a satisfactory condition and Council plans to complete more sewer relining in Hillston in 2016/2017.

Floodplain Management

Council has continued to work through the Lachlan Street Levee project with some hold ups due to finalisation of legal paperwork which has been distributed to residents. Construction of the levy is expected to commence in early 2017.

Swimming Pools

Council operates two pools, one in Hillston and the other in Goolgowi from November to the end of March each year. Maintenance is carried out during the year to ensure the pools are fit for purpose.

Council undertook an major redevelopment of the Hillston facility which included the construction of a new toddlers pool and 25m fully accessible pool and associated infrasturcture, which will find the facility now fully complient with the current water quality requirements.

Hillston Pool Upgrade


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Reserves, Parks & Gardens

Council maintains various parks and gardens in all urban areas and carries out works ranging from mowing and watering to landscaping. Modern playground equipment is also provided and is subject to a regular inspection program. All parks and gardens are maintained in a satisfactory condition.

Achievements during 2015/2016 include:

replacement of park furniture

removal of trees, and replanting of more suitable varieties within area of Hillston, Goolgowi, Rankins Springs merriwagga and Carrathool.

Tree plantings along Hillston approach from Griffith.

refurbishment of public toilets in Hillston, Rankins Springs and Goolgowi.

new bin surrounds to enhance areas within Hilslton including the Lions Park and Lake Woorabinda area.

new park benches and seating for parks in Hillston, Goolgowi and Rankins Springs.

watering system replacement and new installations in various parks.

Caravan Parks

Council provides caravan park facilities at Hillston, Goolgowi and Rankins Springs. The parks are utilised by the travelling public and accommodation for itinerant workers. The Goolgowi Caravan Park has been very popular since opening in 2012, with many favourable comments being received from users. The Hillston Caravan Park continues to provide quality service to visitors and substantially increased takings were received for sites occupied in the park. Additional cabin style accommodation has been installed at the Hillston Caravan Park and is very popular with visitors.

Cemeteries

Council manages cemeteries at Hillston, Goolgowi, Rankins Springs and Gunbar. During the year, Council took over control of the operations of the Gunbar Cemetery. The support of local community members in maintaining cemetery areas is very much appreciated. Expansion of the Hillston Cemetery is required with planning to commence in the forthcoming year. Council continues to keep burial records in compliance with legislative requirements.

Waste Management - Landfills

Council operates waste management facilities at Merriwagga, Hillston, Goolgowi, Carrathool and Rankins Springs. Landfill operations continue at Hillston, Carrathool and Rankins Springs. Merriwagga and Goolgowi facilities operate as waste transfer stations with waste being disposed of at the Hillston landfill. All waste management facilities have provision for green waste and recycling of scrap metals. Hillston and Goolgowi facilities operate under permanent supervision during restricted opening hours.

Goolgowi Caravan Park


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Council continues to support “Drum Muster” with facilities located at most of the waste facilities at which community groups manage the collections and inspections as a part of their community fund raising. Council participates in the Riverina and Murray Regional Organisation of Councils Waste group and has recently been involved in establishment of a “Community Recycling Centre” at the Hillston facility which allows for the disposal of many household hazardous waste streams. Council is confident that the current system of waste management generally satisfies shire requirements and will do so for the foreseeable future, with new waste cells to be planned for at Hillston in the coming year.

Development and Building Control

Council's Local Environmental Plan 2012 has been in place for three years and is generally accepted by the community. The plan is being critically reviewed for any anomalies or foreseeable problems, with a possible planning proposal to be submitted in the future. During the year council approved 58 development applications and 13 complying developing certificates with a total estimated construction value of $150,693,106. Several of these developments were for intensive livestock facilities assessed as designated and integrated development with several more large developments are expected to be received through the upcoming year. The Council was engaged in an ongoing agreement to undertake the construction certification of developments as required with adjoining shires.

Noxious Weed Control

The Carrathool Shire Council’s noxious weeds activities for financial year 2014/2015 saw the continuation of full time employment of one noxious weeds officer, associated equipment and administrative support to perform noxious weeds control, inspection, and educational activities throughout the shire's 19,000 sq km area. Council's officer conducted a significant private property inspection program and provided valuable educational information to the agricultural and general community through various forums including grower group meetings, general field days and specific field days. Existing plots showed resilience and remain viable with self-sown plants continuing to germinate and seed after small localised rain events.

Continued improvement to Council's mapping program over the 2015/2016 year has allowed greater access to appropriate software/tools/base data. Carrathool Shire Council remains a committed member of the Western Riverina Noxious Weeds Advisory Group, with the goal of minimising the impact of noxious weeds on the community in general as demonstrated through operational, inspectorial and educational activities. Private Property Inspection Program

Council’s property inspection program included Spiny Bur Grass, Johnson Grass, Silverleaf Night Shade, Parthenium Weed, Alligator Weed and St John’s Wort, Boxthorn, Bathurst/Noogoora bur, Golden Dodder and Khaki Weed.


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Council’s inspection program has been successful in ensuring that new and emerging invasive species, particularly Coolatai Grass have not taken hold in our local government area. Use of enforcement procedures for noxious weed control

No noxious weed orders were issued during the 2015/2016 period. Weed recording, mapping, survey and reporting activities

Council’s mapping program has included the development of maps indicating the extent/density of the following weeds:

Coolatai Grass

Spiny Burr Grass Map

Johnson Grass

Alligator Weed

St Johns Wort

Silver Leaf Night Shade. Communication, education, extension and publicity activities

Council is an active member of the Western Riverina Noxious Weeds Advisory Group and participates in management plans covering St John’s Wort, Spiny Burr Grass, Silver Leaf Night Shade, and Johnson Grass. Council enlists co-operation from local land managers through the use of property management plans, particularly for Alligator Weed. Operational Program

The Noxious Weeds Officer services a local government area of 19,000 sq kms, which is traversed by a road network of 2,740 kms and 450 rural assessments. With the diversity of agricultural activities in our area, Council is mindful of the possibility and possible damage that the introduction of exotic species could cause.

Aged and Disability Services

Council's Multi Service Outlet based in Hillston provides Home & Community Care (HACC), Community Transport, Respite, Home Modification and Meals on Wheels services. The service is run by a co-ordinator and staffed by casual aged care field officers and community transport officers. During the year additional funding was received to assist in the transition to the new National Disability Insurance Scheme and My Aged care programs. Council successfully undertook an accreditation audit for its services. Statistics for 2015/2016 are as follows:

640 meals were delivered by volunteers under the Meals on Wheels Program

107 clients were transported with a total of 1379 trips by community transport under Home & Community Care, Community Transport and Health Related Transport Programs

120 hours were worked and lawns mowed at 21 properties under the Home Modification Program

340 hours of domestic assistance was provided to the 29 clients

299 hours of social assistance was provided to the 29 clients

170 hours of in-home respite was provided to 4 clients

749 hours of centre based respite was provided to 31 clients.


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Library Services

2015/2016 At a glance...

Area of Shire 18,940 sq km

ABS Resident Shire Population 2,587 (Census 2011)

43,673 visits were made to the library, up by 15,299 from the previous year.

3,900 internet sessions by individuals

16,208 Items borrowed from the town library

2,645 Items borrowed from the mobile library

497 loans to branch libraries

200 loans borrowed from our paperback swap collection

1,107 People are members of our library service

W.G. Parker Memorial Library can be described as being the hub of our community. Our library is not just a place to borrow books, and is far removed from being simply a “book depository”. Our library fits securely in the realm of a Third Place. The “First Place” being where you live, the “Second Place” being where you work, and the “Third Place” is where you visit or hangout. Third places foster community building and usually fit the following criteria; They are free, everybody knows you, people enjoy going there, and, people feel are part of something. Our aim has been for the library to become a “Third Place”. A cultural centre that supports our community. Cr Margaret Merrylees

Cr Margaret Merrylees has been Carrathool Shire Council’s elected Library Delegate since 2003. Cr Merrylees has made the most of her time as Delegate and has been a fierce supporter of the W.G. Parker Memorial Library, Western Riverina Libraries and PLNSW South West Zone throughout her time on Council. Due to ill health Cr Merrylees will not be standing in the forthcoming Council Elections. We extend our appreciation and gratitude to Margaret and realize that all our Libraries have benefited greatly from her input over the past 13 years. Partnerships

Over the past year we have continued to work with other organizations to provide our community access to other Government services. We have partnerships with:

Murrumbidgee Health – Healthy Hillston/Prenatal Classes

Department of Human Resources – Centrelink/Medicare

TAFE NSW Riverina Institute

RTC meeting room and offices for hire by visiting professionals.

Employment agencies –Sureway and CGVT Support To The Backpacker – the library is their Third Place

The Backpackers that come to Hillston play an important economic role in the local farming industry and businesses. Farms rely on their labor particularly for harvests. During these peak times the library is inundated with demands for computers and internet access, entertainment in the form of DVD’s to watch, games to play such as Xbox, and, we have a notice board with a hive of information to solve most situations. The library becomes a meet and greet place. It has a relaxing atmosphere, is clean, cool or warm depending on the season, is free and the backpacker can get help on almost any problem from the library staff including language translation, cultural and local knowledge. During the year we spent both Revitalising Libraries Funding and Local Special Projects funding to purchase extra comfortable seating, the Xbox console and games to meet the demands of these clients.


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The plight of the Non Tech Savvy Senior Population

It is becoming difficult to participate in society without the use of computers. In today’s digital world, increasingly information can only be found online, as well, many vital services are moving online too. With an online presence becoming almost unavoidable our library became involved in giving computer training to Senior’s. Initially we used both the Tech Savvy Seniors funding from Telstra, and the Government funded Broadband for Seniors program to provide tutoring to those who request it. This year we concentrated on just the Broadband for Seniors program. The program subsidizes a free internet connection, supplies computer hardware and support training materials for lessons. We found that clients much preferred the Broadband for Seniors Program due to the comfortable one on one tutoring they receive from our library staff. We have also found that with our partnership with the Department of Human Resources that staff spend a considerable amount of time helping Seniors with accessing the Department’s online services. A large percentage of the Senior population are still not Tech Savvy. Events of 2015/16

Italian cooking demonstration and launch of Cookbook with Laurie and Hilda

Story Hour during school holidays. Included stories, crafts and cooking

National simultaneous Storytime – Special event with morning tea and crafts plus the story “I got this Hat” by Jol temple. Staff were interviewed at 11am live on air by the ABC radio.

Seniors Week – Coach trip to “Clancy’s of Conargo” Established the Xbox Club

Puzzle Mania – Jigsaw puzzles for the school holidays

Summer Reading Club

Mobile Library monthly competition for borrowers

Book Week author visit. – Caroline Tuohey

Caroline Tuohey – Book week visit Seniors Week

Story Hour National Simultaneous Storytime


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Staff Training

Staff attended the LIAC and Drug Info training provided by the State Library of NSW. In my view it is essential to be able to learn about what information these services can provide to the community. Following the training we were able to loan the resin KNOW YOUR STANDARDS drink kit to display and use for demonstrations we held at our library during “Know Your Standards Week”. The highlight was the Goggles that when being worn gave the wearer the illusion of being well over the legal alcohol limit. The children were most impressed with the simulation. Kevin Hannah – Cultural Weeding Workshop 10th November Albury

“A truly fantastic learning experience. A great opportunity to break out of ‘old’ mode and create a new 21st Century Library without breaking the budget”

Kevin Hannah in these workshops applies his wealth of retail knowledge and brings a commercial understanding to the design of libraries. He likes to concentrate on the look and promotion of traffic flow through our buildings. He advocated that we need to apply the principles of a commercial business to get more and more people to use our services. Following the workshop we deleted much of our aged collection 5,961 items, purchased some great looking comfortable seating, and also some display and signage for our book collections. The result was amazing, especially the chairs. Carrathool was represented at two PLNSW zone meetings held at Wagga Wagga Helen Underwood) and Hay (Cr Margaret Merrylees and Helen Underwood) The Challenge of Changing Collection Formats

A shift in borrowing patterns has occurred due to customer demand for e-resources. The continued availability to WRL customers of e-resources that include ebooks & e-audio (Borrowbox) and magazines (Zinio) is currently meeting these demands. Whilst it is now possible for a library member to borrow from the library without physically visiting the library visitor figures still remain high. A time consuming challenge to arise from this change in collection format is for library staff to develop new e-library skills including the capacity to train customers how to use technology such as smart phones and Ipads to access these e-resources. Carrathool Branch was pleased to support the extension of the South West Zone Digital Library and continue to contribute funding. The agreement now extends until June 2022.


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Anzac Commemoration Services

Anzac Day Services were held across the shire, commencing with Dawn Services in Carrathool and Hillston, an 8.00 am service in Rankins Springs, an 11.00 am service in Hillston and the 3.00 pm afternoon service in Goolgowi.


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Australia Day

The 2016 Australia Day celebrations were hosted by the Rankins Springs community at the Rankins Springs War Memorial Hall. This year’s activities started with a sumptuous breakfast in the sunshine bathed park at Rankins Springs. Local art works were on display in the hall along with a short film produced by Rhys Parsons and currently short listed in a Melbourne film festival. The artists all spoke briefly of their journeys and inspiration. Wally’s Junk Art Gallery was open for viewing providing much delight for visitors of all ages. All of this colour and creative talent lent a wonderful air of excitement and energy to the day. Our ambassador this year was Mark Tonelli, former Captain of the Australian Swim Team, an Olympic, World and Commonwealth champion, TV sports commentator, producer and author. Mark’s Australia Day address and friendly manner made him a very popular ambassador. Mark later said how much he enjoyed his time with the community and described Carrathool Shire as ‘a truly switched on shire’. Mark and his partner Sascha, both gave generously of their time and handled the extremely tight time schedule graciously and with their typical humour. Thanks go to the Rankins Springs community for their work and hospitality in hosting the event and providing such beautiful surrounds to spend a few hours basking in the sunshine, catching up with old friends and celebrating the many, many people who contribute to the rich life enjoyed across the shire.

Mayor Peter Laird, Citizen of the Year Jenny Rose and Ambassador Mark Tonelli


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Human Resource Activities

Council remains committed to the ongoing development of fair, equitable and competitive employment practices that support the delivery of services to the community whilst meeting the needs of employees. In 2015/2016 the following human resources activities were undertaken in facilitating this outcome:

Ongoing revision of Council’s Workforce Strategy that forms part of council’s Integrated Planning & Reporting framework;

Continued support for traineeships, apprenticeships and skills acquisition across the organisation in professional, technical, administrative and operational areas; Traineeships and apprenticeships allow the communities youth to work for an employer and train towards a recognised qualification. Employing an apprentice or trainee offers employers an effective alternative for attracting and recruiting staff.

Continued support for Work Experience Students and Work Placement programs;

Implementation and revision of policies and procedures relevant to human resources.

Council continued to utilise electronic recruitment processes to access a sufficient pool of suitable applicants in a competitive labour market in the professional disciplines where there is an identified skills shortage.

Council has continued the development of a Succession Plan to augment its Workforce Strategy. This will be underpinned by the development of individual succession plans.

Consultative Committee

The Consultative Committee has had four meetings during the reporting period and covered many topics relating to the following:

corporate training plan

annual performance reviews

recruitment

policy and procedure development

revised Consultative Committee Constitution

scheduled learning and development and health surveillance “Carrathool Kick Start Day”

committee member elections.

At the November 2013 Consultative Committee Meeting, the Committee endorsed the inclusion of a standard EEO Program agenda item as part of its ongoing commitment to Council’s EEO program. The Consultative Committee acts as the EEO Committee. The aim of the EEO Committee is to work with all employees towards a discrimination and harassment free workplace. As part of the ongoing commitment to effective consultation practices, committee members underwent Consultative Committee training during 2016. The Consultative Committee will continue to review committee training and endeavour to be more proactive amongst staff so that all employees are aware of the current agenda and minutes.

Recruitment and Retention

In January 2016, Council appointed a new General Manager. In March 2016, as per Section 332(1) of the Local Government Act 1993, Council also determined a new organisation structure. The purpose of the restructure was to maintain a workforce with the requisite skills to support the needs of Council and community priorities. The restructure resulted in five (5) positions made redundant and the creation of 2 (two) positions.


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Council continued to maintain internal efficiency and legislative compliance through the active recruitment of 20 employees to fill the vacant positions identified within the organisational structure and additional positions outside the structure on a casual basis. Exit questionnaires have been completed by the majority of staff and several employees participated in an exit interview. Reasons for staff turnover were varied, with no one dominating factor evident. Reasons included employees taking positions within the private sector, retirement, and relocation. Attraction and retention of skilled positions was identified as a key initiative in Council’s Workforce Strategy. Training and Development

Council has developed and implemented a Corporate Training Plan that considered all its obligations for the financial year and ensures that all objectives can be effectively met, subject to overall budgeting constraints. In order to effectively meet the objectives of the Community Strategic Plan and Workforce Strategy, Council must have a well trained and skilled workforce able to deliver quality services to customers. Council is committed to providing its employees with quality leadership, job satisfaction and effective training and development within a safe and healthy work environment with equity and fairness. In 2015/2016, Council offered a range of professional development opportunities to staff. Through discussion around their performance objectives, staff can engage in a variety of targeted programs that build leadership, management and technical capability, whilst also ensuring staff are up to date on legislative knowledge that complements their professional development needs. Council continued its successful ‘Carrathool Kick Start’ – a health, wellbeing and training day. The day is designed to facilitate mandatory training in an interactive manner along with providing an opportunity for staff to participate in health and well being screening activities. Training and development undertaken throughout the year included:

Tourism and economic professional development

Building Surveyor professional development

Promoting library activities

Records management

Bullying and Harassment Training

Return to Work Coordinator Training

Work Near Overhead Powerlines

FBT

Chemcert Reaccreditation

First Aid Reaccreditation

Environmental Health Professionals

Erosion and Sedimentation Control Training

Traffic control

Writing a Winning Business Case

National Refrigerant Handling Training

CPR Refresher

Legal Stage II & III - Weeds Officer Training

Ministry of Health Water Workshop

Cert IV Access Consulting - Building Surveyor

Introduction to Emergency Management Training

Aerodrome Reporting

Digitise Your Business Process

Cert III Horticulture

Reflect User Group Training


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NSW Drinking Water Workshop

Safe Handling of Sharps and Infectious Waste. Work Health & Safety

Council has endeavoured to promote a safe culture and develop WHS and Risk Management best practices within its workforce. Council’s WHS Committee, comprised of representatives from each work group, an elected union representative and a management representative continued to meet on a quarterly basis and discussed health and safety issues such as:

Policies and procedures

Accident/incident/near miss analysis

WHS Self Audit results

Election of committee members

First aid kits

Drug & Alcohol Testing The WHS Committee also carried out quarterly safety inspections of the following Council work sites:

Goolgowi Workshop

Goolgowi Office Goolgowi Depot Yard

Goolgowi Stores

Goolgowi Swimming Pool

Hillston District Office

Library

Hillston Depot

Hillston Depot Yard

Hillston Sewerage Treatment Works

Hillston Swimming Pool Accident & Incident Reporting

The number of accidents, incidents and near misses in 2015/2016 was 57. Injury statistics remained static – with 17 injuries in 2014/15 and 17 in the 2015/16 period. On the whole, most injuries were minor in nature and reported as a precaution.

2014/2015 2015/2016 % Nil

Accident/Incidents Reported 61 57 6.6% decrease Workers Compensation

This year the number of workers compensation claims increased. Most of the injuries were minor in nature and the claims were finalised promptly.

2014/2015 2015/2016 % increase

Claims Lodged 3 8 166%


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Staff Health and Well Being

Council continues to offer health screening initiatives and wellbeing programs for staff when funding allows. This year these included mini health checks (flexibility, cholesterol, blood pressure). Each year Council's insurer, StateCover Mutual requires Council to submit an internal audit questionnaire in relation to WHS. The WHS audit for 2016 was carried out and Council’s score for this year was 63.8%. This is a decrease of 0.93% on last year’s score. An appropriate action plan has been developed to address areas highlighted by the audit, such as WHS system planning, and Contractor Management. Council’s insurer, Statewide Mutual introduced the Continuous Improvement Pathway (CIP) in 2012. The CIP focuses on the continuous improvement of Council’s risk management systems. The main thrust of the CIP is the development and successful implementation of a dynamic Risk Management Action Plan (RMAP). Areas considered by Carrathool Shire Council this year included Operational Risk - Kick Start Training day, Records Management - Recruitment, Strategic Risk - Fraud, and Continuous Improvement Risk - Signs as Remote Supervision.

Carrathool Kick Start – staff health, well-being and training day

Reducing Council’s Risk Exposure

Risks are inherent in every business decision and identifying and managing those risks – and opportunities – is critical to ensuring our Council is robust and sustainable. Council is committed to integrating the systematic and proactive management of risks and opportunities to the ‘way we do business’ at all levels. Initiatives to reduce Council’s risk exposure continue to be implemented throughout the year and include:

the simplification and completion of risk assessments by staff,

risk assessment and control implementation training,

the revision and adoption of a simplified Hierarchy of Control process, and

analysis and controls of insurable risks.

1. Kahi Puru – SafeWork NSW Safety Ambassadore

2. Team building exercise 1

2


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Statutory Reporting

Rates and Charges Written Off - LGR Cl 132

Pensioner Rate Rebate (Council) - During the year $67,825.62 in rates and charges were written off under the pensioner rebate scheme, with Council receiving a subsidy totalling $38,249.73. One requests to write off rates and charges under Council’s Hardship Policy was received during 2015/2016 for the amount of $770.

Details of Overseas Travel by Councillors, Staff or Others - Section 428(r) LGR cl 217(1)(a)

No council official travelled overseas as a Council representative during 2015/2016.

Total Amount Expended on Councillor Facilities or Expenses - Section 428(2)(f) LGR cl 217(1)(a)(i)-(viii)

Dedicated Office Equipment Nil

Telephone Calls Nil

Attendance at Conferences & Seminars Nil

Training and Skills Development Nil

Interstate Visit Expenses Nil

Overseas Visit Expenses Nil

Spouse/Partner Expenses Nil

Child Care Expenses Nil

The following fees were expended during the year 2013/2014:

Mayoral Fees: $14,452.00

Councillor Fees: $88,754.64

Travel & Subsistence: $27,039.26

Delegates Expenses: $ 6,952.03

Council's Payment of Expenses and Provision of Facilities policy identifies expenses that will be paid and facilities that will be provided to councillors in the discharge of their civic functions. The policy was reviewed in September 2015 with two suggested amendments in Part 2 – Payment of Expenses, rate limits for accommodation and meals. The revised document was placed on public exhibition, no submissions were received and the revised policy was adopted by Council on 20 October 2015. Council's policy is available on Council's website.

Contracts Awarded - Section 428(2)(h)

Detailed below are contracts awarded by Council during 2015/2016 other than employment contracts or contracts for less than $150,000.

Name of Contractor Nature of Goods or Services Contract Amount

Wagga Trucks Purchase Bogie Drive Tipper Trailer $169,713.73

Litchfield Horizontal Boring Moleworth Street Mains Replacement $144,000.00

Chiverton Estate Pty Ltd Rankin Springs Potable Water Reticulation System

$400,990.00

Riverina Complete Solar Solar Panel Supply & Installation $259,754.00

Total Creations Hillston Pool Upgrade Stage 2 $697,500.00

Central West Civil Lachlan Street Levee Construction $592,621.20


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Legal Proceedings - Section 428 (2)(e)

During 2015/16, Council had the following legal costs of $35,269.24 were incurred:

Admin Fees $ 8,586.67

Debt recovery $12,166.65

Lachlan Street Levee Project $14,515.92.

Works on Private Land - Section 428(2)(k)

No resolutions were made by Council under Section 67 relating to works on private land. Council’s policy on private works is to review rates each year based on a commercial rate of return on capital investment for inclusion in the fees & charges of the Operational Plan.

Section 356 Contributions and Grants - Section 428(2)(l)

During the year Council made grants and contributions totalling $20,139.85. Eighteen applications were received under Council's Community Grants Program for funding of $20,498.40 of which $18,885.85 was acquitted. Other contributions included support for the Hillston Central School Awards Presentation, and Seniors Week. Two scholarships of $3,000 for shire students studying at the Charles Sturt University were awarded.

Community Grants Program Applicant

Project Funding

St Joseph’s P&F A Platform for Confidence and Self Expression $1,500.00

Hillston CWA CWA Hall Heating $1,500.00

Hillston Billylids Early Learning Centre

WHS for Garden Storage Shed $1,213.40

Hillston Racecourse / Showground Trust Committee

Repair Showground Kiosk/Bar $1,500.00

Lachlan Lodge Incorporated Spring Gardens Project $1,500.00

Goolgowi Public School P&C Portable Address System $1,447.00

Goolgowi Public School LED Stage Lighting Sets & Control Rigs $1,392.70

Goolgowi Recreation Ground Trust Recreation Ground Amenities Improvements $1,500.00*

Rankins Springs Pony Club Privacy Walls in Girls & Boys Showers $1,500.00

Rankins Springs & District Progress Association

Portable Public Address System $1,500.00

Carrathool Public School P&C Goals for today / Goals for life $1,500.00

Carrathool Public School Recreation / Sporting Equipment $1,445.30

Carrathool Combined Sports Club & Hall

Fridge Upgrade $1,500.00

Merriwagga Black Stump Tennis Club

Club House Awning $1,500.00


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External Bodies - Section 428(2)(o)

During the year, the following bodies exercised functions on behalf of Council, through the care, control and management of Council assets.

Carrathool Sportsground & Hall Management Committee Carrathool Sportsground and Hall

Goolgowi Hall Management Committee Goolgowi Public Hall

Hillston Community Centre Management Committee Hillston Community Centre

Merriwagga Hall Management Committee Merriwagga Public Hall

Wallanthry Hall Management Committee Wallanthry Hall

Gunbar Hall Committee Gunbar Public Hall

Rankins Springs Hall Management Committee Rankins Springs Public Hall

Rankins Springs Sport & Recreation Ground Management Committee

Rankins Springs Sportsground

Corporations, Partnerships, Trusts & Joint Ventures - Section 217(a)(7-8)

Council did not hold any controlling interest in any corporation, partnership, trust or joint ventures.

During 2015/2016, Council was involved with the following organisations:

a) Western Riverina Library (WRL) - a co-operative with Griffith City, Hay, Narrandera, Murrumbidgee and Jerilderie Shire Councils to provide a contemporary library service.

b) Western Riverina Noxious Weeds Advisory Committee - in participation with Councils in the region from Wentworth, Balranald, Hay, Temora, Bland, Murrumbidgee, Wakool, Murray, Conargo, Deniliquin, Griffith, Leeton, Narrandera and Jerilderie, to provide a regional approach to noxious weed control.

c) Rural Fire Service NSW under a service level agreement for the provision of accommodation and administrative assistance.

d) Riverina and Murray Regional Organisation of Councils (RAMROC) to explore resource sharing, strategic alliances, lobbying and promotion opportunities.

e) Minor shareholder Southern Phone Company

f) Statewide Mutual Insurance

g) Video Conferencing partnership between the TAFE NSW and the library for the delivery of short courses.

h) Waste Not Want Not Committee and Foodbank NSW and ACT.

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) - Section 217(1)(a9)

Council shall provide a workplace free from discrimination, harassment and bullying; promoting Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO), equity, respect and tolerance in all work and management practices, creating a harmonious, safe and productive workplace benefitting employees, the organisation and the wider community.

The Consultative Committee acts as the EEO Committee to streamline Council processes. Meetings, for the purpose of addressing EEO matters, shall mean the Consultative Committee meetings which are held at least four (4) times each year as and when required with the inclusion of a standard EEO Program agenda item.


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Council had no complaints in relation to EEO. Council’s commitment is reinforced through the objectives of the EEO Management Plan to:

1. eliminate discrimination or harassment, 2. promote EEO, 3. communicate EEO policies, protocols, procedures and associated programs.

The Human Resources/WHS/Risk Officer continues to review processes and actions to ensure compliance with merit based recruitment and selection, induction, fair assessment procedures, targeted training development, merit based promotion and transfer and non-discriminatory employment opportunities.

Remuneration Packages - LGR cl 217(1)(b)(i)-(v)

The General Manager is the only staff member designated as a senior staff member. The total value of the remuneration packages at 30 June 2016 was $224,209 for 3 General Managers within the year and included the following:

Salary $204,839

Employer Compulsory Superannuation $19,470

Bonus or other payments Nil

Non Cash Benefits (house, phone & car) Nil

Total Fringe Benefits $1,789

Storm Water Management Services - LGR cl 217(1)(e)

Council's storm water drainage system in all towns and villages consists mainly of kerb and gutter and open drainage flow. Storm water management installations other than those incorporated in the Hillston High Street project include works associated with kerb and gutter installations. Routine maintenance clearing of stormwater systems was carried out in Hillston and Goolgowi. Council has not levied an annual charge for stormwater management services during the current year.

Coastal Protection Services - LGR cl 217(1)(e1)

As an inland rural shire, Council is not required to provide coastal protection services.

State of the Environment Report - Section 428A(1)

Section 482A(1) of the Local Government Act 1993 requires that a State of the Environment Report be included in the Annual Report in the year of an ordinary election. 1. The annual report of a council in the year in which an ordinary election of councillors is to be

held must include a report (a “state of the environment report”) as to the state of the environment in the local government area in relation to such environmental issues as may be relevant to the objectives for the environment established by the community strategic plan (the “environmental objectives”)

The State of the Environment Report is attached as appendix 2.

Environmental Upgrade Agreements - Section 54P

No environmental upgrade agreements were entered into during 2015/2016.


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Capital Works Projects - Capital Expenditure Guidelines

In accordance with the Office of Local Government's Capital Expenditure Guidelines, Council is required to report on renovation or extension projects at a cost that is 10% of Council's annual rate revenue, that is $347,000. It is noted that capital expenditure on land purchases, land remediation, water supply networks, sewerage networks, stormwater drainage, domestic waste management facilities, roads, footpaths, and bridges is exempt from the reporting requirements.

During 2015/2016 the following capital works were undertaken:

Construction of an upgrade to the Hillston Pool at $519,293

Companion Animals Act & Regulation Activities - LGR cl 217(1)(f)

The enforcement of the Companion Animals Act and Regulation is the responsibility of Council which employed one full time staff member in 2015/2016. Expenditure in this area of Council’s activities was $81,300.

Council maintains all registers and undertake all reporting requirements in accordance with the Act and Regulation. Council’s survey of impounded companion animals was lodged with the Division of Local Government in accordance with statutory requirements.

Council activities continually focus on ensuring that owner/s are maintaining appropriate levels of responsibility and ensuring compliance with the Act & Regulation. This includes:

Regular inspection of premises known to house declared dangerous dogs

Regular inspection of premises known to house restricted breeds

Regular patrols of the towns and villages to identify breaches of owner’s responsibilities and rectifying these issues

Promotion of de-sexing of companion animals

Impounding of companion animals

Re-housing and destruction of companion animals

Continual community education in relation to the requirements of the Act and Regulation.

Council has had particularly good results in re-homing new owners for companion animals, with approximately 85% of impounded animals being released to new homes. Re-homing is currently the only strategy used to reduce the euthanasia numbers of unclaimed animals.

Carrathool Shire Council has several off-leash areas as detailed below and continues to promote these through varing medias:

Hillston Desathlon Park, on the western side of the Lachlan River. The boundaries of the "leash free area" are the Lachlan River, the sounthern boundary fence of the Hillston Golf Club, from the south western corner of this fence in a line to the north east corner of the property owned by Mr Peter Vannoort then to the river along their eastern boundary.

Goolgowi The area bounded by Bunyip Street, Brady's Road, Wollarma Road and the railway excluding the area designated as the rubbish depot.

Rankins Springs The area bounded by Moa Road and Lake Street from Main road 371 (Lake Cargelligo Road) to the point where Suburb Street intersects with Moa Road

Carrathool The area surrounding the Carrathool Waste Depot to the south of town

Merriwagga The area bounded by the railway land to the west and Devon Street between Lallat and Marne Streets and Charney and Fleury Streets, and from the western side of Aix Street between Marne and Charney Streets.


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Government Information (Public Information) Access Act 2009 - GIPAA section 125

The Government Information (Public Information) Act 2009 (GIPAA), which replaced the Freedom of Information Act, came into effect on 1 July 2010. Section 21 of the GIPAA required agencies to develop and adopt a publication guide within six months and Council’s publication guide was adopted on 21 December 2010 following approval by the Information Commissioner. The publication guide is now called the Information Guide and is reviewed annually.

Council’s information guide is a summary of what Council does, how it does it, and the type of information it holds and generates through the exercise of its functions, with an emphasis on how those functions affect members of the public. Its purpose is to make it easier for people to identify and obtain information held by Council.

Council has updated its website with information such as its Contracts Register, Access to Information forms and policies. In line with the intention of the new Act, emphasis has been on the release of information held by Council as open access information.

Council received one access application during 2015/2016 which was processed.

Privacy and Personal Information Protection Act 1998 - PIPPA Section 33

The Privacy and Personal Information Protection Act 1998 provides for the protection of personal information and for the protection of the privacy of individuals generally. It is a requirement of the Act that all state agencies, including local government, must prepare and implement a privacy management plan. Council's Privacy Management Plan was last reviewed and updated in August 2009.

Council did not receive any requests for information under the Privacy and Personal Information Protection Act 1998 during 2015/2016. No internal reviews under Part 5 of the Privacy and Personal Information Protection Act 1998 were undertaken during 2015/2016.

Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 - Section 93G (5)

No planning agreements were in force during 2015/2016.

Public Interest Disclosure Act 1997 - Section 31, cl 4

No disclosures under the Public Interest Disclosure Act 1997 were received during 2015/2016.

Carers Recognition Act 2010 - Section 8(2)

Council continues to provide services for carers and people being cared for by carers through the provision of Home and Community Care Services (HACC), Community Transport and Respite activities.

Council by way of its HACC and respite services is considered to be an ‘human service agency’ as defined under the Carers Recognition Act 2010. Carrathool Shire Council has always considered and complied with the NSW Carers Charter.

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AAnnnnuuaall RReeppoorrtt 22001155//1166...Carrathool Shire Council Annual Report 2015 – 2016 Page...

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