ANNUAL REPORT 2005/06 · Library study • Lerwin Accreditation • HACC accreditation • OHS...

‘Bridge to Opportunity’

ANNUAL REPORT 2005/06

Page 2 of 42 www.murraybridge.sa.gov.au

TABLE OF CONTENTS

OVERVIEW & HIGHLIGHTS • Message from Mayor, Allan Arbon • Message from Chief Executive Officer, David Altmann • Snapshot of Achievements • Indigenous Partnership • Community Awards • Elected Membership • Core Services – Senior Management Team

PROFILE

• Council Locations • Interesting Facts • Statement of Council Representation • Population • Multiculturalism

COUNCIL

• Access to Council Documents • Allowances Paid • Consultation processes • Council Elections • Council Meetings • Confidential Items • Delegations • Decision Making, Structure, Functions & Review of Decisions • Information - FOI requests • Representation on External Bodies • Section 41 Committees • Training & Development Activities • Competitive Tendering Statement

STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT PLAN

• Overview • Corporate & Community Services • Development & Environmental Services • Infrastructure & Technical Services • Lerwin & Aged Care

STAFFING

• Employment Numbers • OHS Statement • EEO Statement • Code of Conduct • Training

FINANCIAL Appendices

1. Freedom of Information Statement 2. Murray & Mallee Local Government Association Annual Report 3. Southern & Hills Local Government Association Annual Report 4. Strategic Management Plan 5. Strategic Management Plan update January 2006 6. Organisational Chart 7. Rating Policy 8. Audited Financial Statement for 30 June 2006


MESSAGE FROM MAYOR ALLAN ARBON

The year 2005/2006 has seen the progressive continued movement forward of the Rural City of Murray Bridge through a dedicated and united approach from Elected Members, Chief Executive Officer and employees of the Council. This progressive and united relationship has ensured effective communication with our Community Members and resulted in the creation and adoption of our Strategic Management Plan 2005-2010. The results of which are located within this Annual Report.

The district and region continued to progress through one of its strongest growth periods. Growth in 2005/06 was recorded at 3%, development applications are at an all time high, and unemployment at an all time low. The Rural City of Murray Bridge incorporating the outer townships or Mypolonga, Jervois, Wellington, Monarto, Brinkley, Woods Point, Monteith, Hundreds of Burdett and Ettrick has continued to grow and expand its opportunities and services available as progressed through our Strategic Management Plan. This together with our valuable relationships with the Murraylands Regional Development Board, Murray & Mallee Tourist Association, Murray Bridge Business & Traders Association, Murray Mallee LGA and Southern & Hills LGA, Murray Bridge & District Progress Associations, Mypolonga Progress Association, Wellington Progress Association and Monarto Progress Associations and Hall Committees. This year has proven we are the “Bridge to Opportunity”.

Mayor Allan Arbon.


MESSAGE FROM THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

DAVID ALTMANN

Council Elected Members and Staff have faced many challenges and successes over the 2005/2006 period. Council successfully launched its Strategic Plan 2005-2010 in September 2005 – Bridge To Opportunity which outlines our Vision for 2025 with a progress update occurring in January 2006.

It has been an extremely busy and productive year – a summary of our highlights are shown on page 5.

The year ahead poses many exciting challenges for the Murray Bridge district and wider Murraylands Region. Key challenges for Council as an organization include: • Finalization of 10 year financial plan and 10 year asset plan and 10 year infrastructure

maintenance plan. • Ongoing Continuous Improvement with Work Safety practices and OHS compliance. • Induction and Training of new Council, post November 2006 elections. • To resolve some old and outstanding projects including manure on roads; town hall feasibility

study and ongoing management issues for the Brinkley Waste Management facility and recycling opportunities.

Recent amendments to the Local Government Act requires Council to now prepare detailed 10 year asset management and infrastructure plans for the entire district. This will include management of depreciation on an ongoing basis and also includes an enormous back log of infrastructure maintenance work. This issue will severely challenge Councils across South Australia with regard to the question of Local Government Financial Sustainability as the backlog of infrastructure work is likely to amount into hundreds of millions of dollars for the Rural City of Murray Bridge alone. Assets and infrastructure includes town and rural roads, footpaths and kerbing, storm water infrastructure, buildings, offices, town halls and the like. Council and the entire community upon the completion of this work will be faced with the enormous challenge of addressing the financial ramifications of this issue as will other 68 Councils across South Australia. Serious discussions and decisions will need to be made by Council in consultation with the Community on our ability to continue to deliver current core services, discussion on long term rate revenue and the future structure of Local Government generally. Our Council and Councils across the State also will need to lobby for a greater slice of State and Federal tax revenue. During the following year Council will also be managing numerous key projects notably the Urban Growth Management Strategy which will plan for growth over the next 20 years with a prediction of a district wide population of 30,000 over that time. In conjunction with this research, Council will also be preparing detailed management plans for the management of key tourist riverfront reserves between Avoca Dell and Swanport Aquatic Centre. The public will be consulted heavily through this process. In addition Council will continue to facilitate and sponsor major events throughout the district including the AIPP, Masters Games March 2007 and the 50 Anniversary of the 1956 flood event in October 2006. Again I sincerely thank everybody for their contribution to the running of Council and the outcomes being achieved in our Community.

David Altmann, Chief Executive Officer


SNAPSHOT OF ACHIEVEMENTS – 2005/2006

• Expeditious resolution of priority Stormwater issues.

• Major increase in Customer Service Enquiries and Council contact totaling 35,991 for financial year.

• Adoption of Strategic Management Plan October 2005.

• Urban Growth Management and Riverfront Management Strategy projects let – implemented expeditiously soon after adoption of Strategic Management Plan

• Launch of new look Rural City of Murray Bridge website.

• Success of mid year function, launch of website and Strategic Management Plan.

• Strong progress on 10 year financial plan commencing with workshop sessions with Elected Members.

• Excellent progression on South Terrace Retail Precinct.

• Completion of Murray Bridge Railway land ‘business case’ to take negotiations with State Government to next level.

• Success of major events. • Focus on indigenous heritage issues and

success of our partnership. • Success of new arrivals function at Gallery –

500 people • Launch of key contacts initiative to better

liaise with key clients • Revamp Rural City Review. • Major grants

o $525K from CCMS for Stormwater projects

o $285K from LGA Emergency fund o $90K from NRM for Stormwater o $10K from TSA for bus study o $5K from NRM for Urban Growth

Management Strategy o $35K sourced via MRDB for Urban Growth

Management Strategy o $40K from Murraylands Youth Sector

Network o $85K for Murray Princess Wharf o HACC projects – additional $29K o Community Water Grants - $100K o Youth Centre - $24K o Skate Park - $84K o Private donation to Skate Park - $25K o A further $10K for Youth Centre

• New initiative and launch of team building program across organization.

• Best ever pedal prix in 2005 and secured 10 year agreement.

• Excellent work of outside workforce on infrastructure and road projects.

• Christian Reserve lease finally resolved • Excellent media coverage and marketing. • Budget surplus forecast for 2006

notwithstanding Stormwater management issues and EPA Brinkley dump blow out.

• Strong focus on resolving EPA issues at Brinkley and rebuilding relationship with EPA.

• Success of Youth Centre, and YAC initiatives. • Success of postcards program at Regional

Gallery • Completion and adoption of Murray Bridge

Library study • Lerwin Accreditation • HACC accreditation • OHS bonuses announced August 2005. • Targeted a range of awards with success

o 2 National ALGA awards o 1 SA Great Award o 1 Kellogs Heart Foundation Award o 1 nomination for State Risk Manager of

the Year o 1 nomination for Rural City of the Year o SA Living Art Festival Award for Afghani

exhibition o 2 staff awarded in Emerging Leader

program. o Focus on future awards have been

targeted • Australia Day huge success with large

numbers • Murray Princess Wharf – sourced grants and

constructed in very quick time. • Facilitated $2.8 m Federal funding in the

region via Community for Children’s project • Major development and planning initiatives

o AV Jennings o Martino - Australian Portable Camps o Rural Press – active in expediting DA

process o Child care facilities o More proactive approach to development

assessment • Successful launches

o Opening of Lerwin o Beach volleyball o Wharf Hill o Liberty Swing o Strategic Management Plan o Website

• Completion of rate review • Completion of electoral boundary review • Murraylands only region to increase day trip

visits other than metropolitan Adelaide (28 million to 37 million)


INDIGENOUS PARTNERSHIP

The Rural City of Murray Bridge acknowledges the continuing relationship of the Ngarrindjeri people with the land on which we stand today.

Council has also supported, in a close partnership approach, our Indigenous Community on the following: • Involved in many indigenous areas and

consultation including health, housing, education, roads and youth;

• Pomberuk – support of Aboriginal Heritage/Cultural Centre and construction of new wharf.

• Ngoppon Together – key part of this active local group. Certificates are displayed in foyer.

• Sponsored two indigenous youth to attend Youth Parliament program in 2005.

• NAIDOC Week – sponsor, working party member and strong support including active involvement in most events.

• Flying of the Aboriginal flag at Council’s offices.

• Acknowledgement of the Ngarrindjeri as traditional owners of the land in official speeches.

• Reconciliation day – major sponsor, representative on organising committee and active supporter.

• Community Cultural Development Committee advising on cultural issues including signage.

• Annual Bridge Walk – provide morning tea for the community and organisation of the majority of the event;

• Support the “Ya Granny Group’ – women’s group at the Lower Murray Nungas Club

• Active member of the local “ReconcilAction Network”

• Actively involved and engaged with the community regarding the development of a youth centre

• Proud supporter, sponsor and on organizing committee for the Aboriginal Health Fair Day;

• Sponsored and supported the Indigenous ‘eXtreme Choices’ youth program.

• Sponsored the football and netball teams at the Aboriginal Sports Carnival;

• Sponsor, facilitator and supporter of the new Aboriginal Youth Advisory Committee (AYAC)

• Introduction of CDEP trainee at Council (currently looking for a trainee to fill this position)

• Support and consultation with the ‘youth forum’ at the Lower Murray Nungas Club.

• Sponsor and attend workshop for the ‘Givin us voice’ project with Aboriginal Education.

• Member of the Indigenous Employment & Training Network – possible sponsor

• Member of the Police Aboriginal Liaison (PALs) group;

• Cash/in-kind support of various other projects.

Council has also recognized the Ngarrindjeri Community and heritage in its Strategic Management Plan and has employed an Indigenous Affairs Officer to help deliver on the above issues.


COMMUNITY AWARDS

NATIONAL AWARDS

The Rural City of Murray Bridge Youth Advisory Committee • National Awards for

Local Government 2005 “National Awards for Excellence – for a Council under 15000 ratepayer base”.

• National Awards for Local Government 2005 “Youth Engagement Award: Category Winner – for a Council under 15000 ratepayer base.”

Bridge Clinic – The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners “National General Practice of the Year” Award. Murray Bridge Hotel – Australian Hotels Association “Best Bistro – Dining Country” Award. Masters Games Congratulations to the Murray Bridge individuals who brought home medals at the 2005 National Masters Games held in Adelaide. Murraylands Tourism Marketing - SA Tourism Awards “Destination Promotion” Category for the third consecutive year.

STATE AWARDS The Rural City of Murray Bridge • Heart Foundation

Kellogg Local Government Awards 2005 “South Australia – Overall Winner”.

• Heart Foundation Kellogg Local Government Awards 2005 “South Australia – Winner: Recreational Infrastructure Project”

Bob Wheare Lions Club & SA Police “Citizen on the Year 2005”. Hills Mallee Southern Regional Health Service Inc – Margaret Tobin Award of Excellence Winner for Swanport House. Mr Anthony Pahl - recipient of Medal of the Order of Australia for service to Veterans through the International War Veterans Poetry Archives Murray Bridge Apex – Grant Fuss Attendance Trophy for having highest percentage of attendance Rob Butcher – SA/NT Apexian of the Year Murray Valley Standard – best newspaper circulation

SA GREAT REGIONAL AWARDS

(Murraylands/Riverland) Rural City of Murray Bridge Youth Advisory Committee – Commendation, Youth Category Daishsat Pty Ltd – Winner Business Category Murraylands Enterprise Estate – “Steps to Success” – Winner Innovation Category. Monarto Zoological Park – Winner Tourism Murraylands Career Expo – Commendation, Youth Category LOCAL AWARDS – 2006 AUSTRALIA DAY Citizen–joint award Janet Dean-Trotter & Sally Lockwood Young Citizen – joint award Jason Hagger; Sam Faulkner; Jason Smith Sports Person Martin Wells Young Sports Person Chad Wingard Community Event of Year Pictures in my Heart


VALUABLE VOLUNTEER SUPPORT

The Rural City of Murray Bridge acknowledges the immeasurable generosity and selflessness, volunteers share their time and talent to improve our Community and thank the following

volunteers who have assisted us.

Murray Bridge Visitor Information Centre

Youth Advisory Committee

Community Cultural Advisory Committee

Accessibility Advisory Committee

Rocky Gully Wetlands Group

Home & Community Care

Regional Art Gallery Management Committee

Town Hall Project Management Committee

Captain’s Cottage Museum

Crime Prevention & Graffiti Removal

Fraser Park Project Group

Murray Bridge & District Historical Society

Showgrounds Management Committee

Friends of the Library

Skate Park Committee

1956 Flood Commemoration

Monarto South Memorial Hall

Lerwin Nursing Home

Mypolonga War Memorial Hall

Johnstone Park Combined Clubs Management Committee

Lower Murray Toy Library

CCTV Project Management Group

Regional Masters Games Committee

Work for the Dole

The many volunteers who assist Council in Special Projects and Events


ELECTED MEMBERSHIP – 2003/2006 The Rural City of Murray Bridge elected membership comprises:

• 1 Mayor • 9 Councillors which comprise

o 3 Councillors each for Brinkley Ward; Mobilong Ward and Monarto Ward

Cr Clem SchubertCr Theo Weinmann

Cr Ken Coventry

Cr Bob England

Cr Barry Laubsch

Cr Bruce Pearson

Cr Phil Nutt

Cr Keith Simmons

Cr Milton Weinert

Mayor Allan Arbon

MONARTO WARD

BRINKLEY WARD

MOBILONG WARD


CORE SERVICES

Council has remained committed towards implementing its Strategic Management Plan, linking in with its Financial Plan and budget decisions and makes decision on policy issues relating to the following core services

SENIOR MANAGEMENT TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER – David Altmann

Office of the CEO Public functions Governance Elected Members Human Resources Strategic Planning Economic Development

Corporate & Community Services – Manager - Kym Miller

Finance/Rates & Property Information Technology Customer service Asset Management Geographical support Community & Cultural Development Youth & Indigenous Accessibility Projects Crime Prevention Town Hall & other halls Regional Art Gallery Library Tourism & Marketing Visitor Information Centre

Development & Environment Services Manager – Gloria Booker

Dog control By law management Public & Environment Health Immunization Planning Building Services Parking Management

Infrastructure & Technical Services Manager – Martin Waddington

Cemeteries Public Conveniences Street cleaning Street lighting Murray Darling Officer Environmental projects Parks & Gardens Sport & Recreation Swimming facilities Road construction Road maintenance Stormwater drainage Plant operations Depot operations Engineering Vandalism control STEDs Garbage Collection Landfill

Lerwin Manager – Reg Budarick

Lerwin Nursing Home Aged Care/HACC Commonwealth respite care Veterans Home Care Murray Mallee Aged Care

Information relating to remuneration is contained in Council’s Salary Register


The Rural City of Murray Bridge office is located in the Local Government Centre, 2 Seventh Street,

Murray Bridge, South Australia, 5253.

Telephone number: 85391 100 Fax no: 85322 766 Postal address PO Box 421, Murray Bridge, 5253 Email address: [email protected] Website address: murraybridge.sa.gov.au After Hours Emergency Number: 0438 321 288 .

COUNCIL BUSINESS LOCATIONS: Works Depot 21 Hindmarsh Road, Murray Bridge, 5253 Telephone: 85 391160 Facsimile: 85 310170 Public Library Level 3 Mobilong House Seventh Street, Murray Bridge, 5253 Telephone: 85 391175 Facsimile: 85 321622 Visitor Information Centre South Terrace, Murray Bridge, 5253 Telephone: 85 391142 Facsimile: 85 325288 Regional Gallery 27 Sixth Street, Murray Bridge, 5253 Telephone: 85 312606 Facsimile: 85 312606 Lerwin Nursing Home 67 Joyce Street, Murray Bridge, 5253 Telephone: 85 391189 Facsimile: 85 311655

Swimming Pool (open between Oct & April) Flavel Terrace, Murray Bridge, 5253 Telephone: 85 322924

Brinkley Waste Depot Telephone: 04127 971 587

Public are able to hire the following facilities from Council by contacting the

Local Government Centre Meeting Rooms Local Government Centre; Public Library; Town Hall Ovals Homburg; LeMessurier; Monarto; Showgrounds Reserves Avoca Dell Reserve: Diamond Park; Edwards Square; Johnstone Park; Pine Park; Riverglen Marina Reserve; Sturt Reserve; Swanport Reserve; Wharf Hill; Woodlane Reserve.

COUNCIL LOCATIONS

KEY FACTS

Number of Elected Members

10

Number of Wards

3

Number of Electors

14012

Resident Population 17,500 15,000 (urban); 2,500 (outlying)

Number of Rateable Properties

10058

Area 1828 sq km (inc part of River Murray & Lake Alexandrina)

Trafficable Road Network 975 km

(excluding DTEI Roads)

Townships Mypolonga; Jervois; Wellington; Monarto; Callington; Burdett; Monteith; Woods Point

Height Above Sea Level At Post Office - 22m

STATEMENT OF COUNCIL REPRESENTATION The representation quota is determined by dividing the number of electors for the area of the Council by the number of Elected Members of the Council. The number of electors for the Rural City of Murray Bridge as at February 2006 was 14012 and the quota is 1:1401

• Barossa Council 1:1160 • Victor Harbor 1:1276 • Yorke Peninsula 1:1192

Council undertook a periodic review in 2005 and has scheduled to undertake its next review within the next 3 – 5 years as per Division 2 or Section 12 of the Local Government Act. POPULATION • Rural City of Murray Bridge population will

nearly double by year 2025 to 30,000. • Murray Bridge will lead the area in job

growth over next 3 years followed by the Mannum area. The Coorong Council area incorporating Tailem Bend and Meningie are predicted to grow more slightly than 2003 and the Karoonda and Lameroo/

Pinnaroo areas are not predicted to significantly.

• Increase in tourism is predicted to growth through the strong marketing of the Murraylands Tourism Marketing Plan.

• Murraylands has approximately 4.5% of State’s total population.

• Increase in land divisions/building sites in Murray Bridge.

• Murray Bridge is regional centre and often a base for travel to other areas.

MULTI CULTURALISM The Rural City of Murray Bridge is home to a diverse number of nationalities from all continents. In 2003 Council declared the Rural City of Murray Bridge as a Refugee Welcome Zone in 2003 and continues to play an integral role with the region’s Multicultural Migration & Settlement Committee. Citizenship Ceremonies During the year Mayor Arbon conducted citizenships for 24 new Australians. An increase from previous years 2004/05 14 new citizens 2003/04 6 new citizens


ACCESS TO COUNCIL DOCUMENTS Recognising the importance of clear and transparent decision making and compliance requirements of the Local Government Act 1999, the following documents are available for public inspection at the Local Government Centre, 2 Seventh Street, Murray Bridge without charge. Several documents are also included on our website for access by the public – www.murraybridge.sa.gov.au

• Annual Report • Annual Statement • Assessment Record • Audited Financial Statement • Budget Statement • Bylaws • Code of Conduct – Elected Members & Employees • Contracts & Purchasing Policy • Council Agendas and minutes • Delegations Manual • Development Application Register • Development Assessment Panel agenda and minutes • Election Campaign Donation Returns • Freedom of Information Statement • Internal Control Policy • Internal Review Procedure • Order Making Policy • Council’s Policy Manual • Procedure for Internal Review of Council Decisions Policy • Public Consultation Policy • Rating Policy • Register of Community Land • Register of Elected Member Allowances and Benefits • Register of Employees Salaries, Wages & Benefits • Register of Interest Elected Members • Register of Interest Senior Management Team • Register of Public Streets and Roads • Schedule of Fees and Charges • Section 41 Committee agendas and minutes • Strategic Management Plan • Voters Roll

ALLOWANCES Elected Members The allowances set by Council in accordance with Section 76 of the Local Government Act 1999 are as follows:

From 1/5/05 From 1/6/06 Mayor $24,000 $26,960 Deputy Mayor $7,500 $8,425 Other Elected Members $6,000 $6,740

Further information is contained in Council’s Policy – Elected Member Allowances & Support Policy (G:4). Development Assessment Panel Members Independent Chairman - $10,000 pa. Other Members – no sitting fee


COMMUNITY CONSULTATION Council’s Public Consultation Policy – G:6; clearly identifies Council’s commitment to this valuable process. The objective of this policy is to ensure Council effectively

• Consults with the community on Community issues; • Promotes and encourages community involvement in Council business; • Makes decisions which are open, transparent and responsive to the needs and aspirations

of the community. • Fulfils the legislative requirements as set out in the Public Consultation requirements of the

Local Government Act 1999, Development Act and as required in other Acts and Regulations applicable.

The Rural City of Murray Bridge values effective consultation in developing a positive and open relationship with its Community and strongly believes this process provides the Community with the opportunity to be informed and influence decisions which affect their lives.

Public Participating in Council’s Decision Making Process There are a number of ways in which members of the Public can put forward their views on particular issues to Council. They are: • Deputations/Presentations – with the permission of the Mayor, a member of the public can

address Council on behalf of a group of residents. • Petitions – written petitions can be addressed to the Council on any issue within the Council’s

jurisdiction. • Written requests – a member of the public can write to Council on any Council policy, activity

or service. • Elected Members – members of the public can contact Elected Members of the Council to

discuss any issue relevant to the Council. • Rural City Forums – Council holds 3 Rural City Forums annually as a forum to listen to the

Community. • Council convenes two Council meetings annually at an outer township. • Council also produces a newsletter the Rural City Review which is published quarterly

providing information to the Community and seeks feedback. • Council’s website also allows for members of the public to provide Council with feedback on

any issue. • Via any of Council’s offices – Local Government Centre, Works Depot, Public Library, Regional

Gallery, Lerwin Nursing Home. COUNCIL ELECTIONS The May 2005 election was postponed until November 2006 COUNCIL MEETINGS Ordinary meetings of Council are held at 7 pm in the Council Chamber, Local Government Centre on the 4th Monday of January, 2nd and 4th Mondays from February – November and the 2nd Monday of December. Council also held 2 Council meetings in outlying townships – Wellington & Mypolonga. All meetings are open to the Public, except on occasions where Council decides to consider a matter under Section 90(3) of the Local Government Act. Public notice of Council meetings are displayed in the foyer of the Local Government Centre and on Council’s website with an invitation to Members of the Public to attend. Agendas are on display 3 days before a meeting and minutes are on display 5 days following the Council meeting.


CONFIDENTIAL ITEMS The Rural City of Murray Bridge is committed to the principle of open and accountable government. Council also recognizes that on occasions it may be necessary in the broader community interest to restrict public access to discussion and/or documents as provided for under Section 90 of the Local Government Act 1999. Council considered 62 matters under Section 90 of the Local Government Act and of those 25 have been released to the public. Breakdown of Section 90(3) of the Local Government Act categories used:

• (a) x 4 times • (b) x 9 times • (d) x 17 times • (e) x 3 times • (h) x 10 times • (i) x 7 times • (j) x 1 times • (k) x 9 times • (m) x 2 times

DELEGATIONS In accordance with Section 44 of the Local Government Act, certain powers, functions and duties have been delegated to the Chief Executive Officer from the Council by resolution. The CEO, as allowed, has in turn delegated some of these powers, functions and duties to Council officers. Such delegations enable the effective and efficient operation of the Council administration. DECISION MAKING, STRUCTURE & FUNCTIONS Council comprises an elected Mayor and 9 Ward Councillors who are the decision making body on all policy issues as described in Chapter 2 of the Local Government Act. As part of its role Council strives to ensure open, responsive and accountable Government. In recognition of this Council has adopted policies relating to Community Consultation and Participation and access of information. The Rural City of Murray Bridge recognizes the need and participates in discussions outside of its Community through Local Government and State Government bodies to ensure our Community is aware of what is happening on the local, State and Federal platforms. Council’s Strategic Management Plan emphasizes the importance of service to the community, services, facilities and programs are able to be used by all through equitable access and Council resources are used fairly, effectively and efficiently. Review of Council Decisions As required by the Local Government Act,1999, Council has developed a procedure for the review of Council decisions (G:5), outlining how decisions of Council or other people acting on behalf of the Council are reviewed. The Rural City of Murray Bridge is committed to transparent decision making processes and to providing access to a fair and objective procedure the hearing of review of decisions.


INFORMATION REQUESTS Initial enquiries regarding access to, or copies of information not covered above, should be directed to the Freedom of Information Officer at the Local Government Centre. Formal applications will be responded to within the statutory timeframes.

Freedom of Information Statement The Freedom of Information Statement is published annually by Council in accordance with the requirements of the Freedom of Information Act 1991. The Statement is included as appendix 1. Requests received 2005/06 1 2004/05 0 2003/04 1 2002/03 0 REPRESENTATION ON EXTERNAL BODIES In recognition of the need to participates in discussions outside of its Community through Local Government and State Government bodies to ensure our Community is aware of what is occurring. Council supports and has membership on the following Local Government bodies:

• Local Government Association of South Australia (www.lga.sa.gov.au) • Murray & Mallee Local Government Association (www.mmlga.sa.gov.au) – a copy of their

annual report is attached as appendix 2. • Southern & Hills Local Government Association (www.fredpedler.com) – a copy of their

annual report is attached as appendix 3 • Murraylands Regional Development Board (www.murraylands.org.au) • Provincial Cities Association • Murraylands Regional Tourist Association (www.murraylands.info)

Other representation on external bodies include:

• Adelaide Hills Region Waste Management Authority • Bushfire Prevention Committee • Local Government Financial Authority • Local Government Association – Stormwater Management • Lower Murray Irrigation Action Group • Lower Murray Local Government Working Group • Mannum to Wellington Local Action Plan Committee • Multicultural SA • Murray Bridge & District State Emergency Service • Murray Bridge Basketball Association • Murray Bridge Business & Tourism Inc • Murray Bridge High School Governing Council • Murray Bridge Soldier’s Memorial Hospital • Murray Darling Association • Murray Mallee Aged Care • Murray Watch • Rural Counselling Service • SA Recreation Trails • State/Local Government Passenger Transport Group


SECTION 41 COMMITTEES

Council has appointed seven Section 41 Committees to encourage broader representation and involvement to Council affairs and to provide Elected Members recommendations on Community affairs to Council. However the Section 41 Committees have received no delegated power from the Council and perform their duties as an advisory committee to Council.

• Accessibility Advisory Committee • Community Cultural Development Advisory Committee • Donations/Community Grant Funding • Murray Bridge Gallery • Review of Arrangements for Use of Ovals Working Party • Traffic Safety (Manure on Roads) Committee • Youth Advisory Committee

Accessibility Advisory Committee • Has continued to provide valuable advice

and direction to Council on accessibility and mobility issues and opportunities across the district that affect our disabled residents and visitors.

• Met 4th Thursday of each month in the Local Government Centre and was open to the public.

Community Cultural Development Advisory Committee • Has continued to provide advice and

direction to Council on cultural affairs, community development issues and opportunities. Has also assisted Council in a range of community and cultural events and awareness programs.

• Met 1st Tuesday of each month in the Local Government Centre and was open to the public.

Donations/Community Grant Funding • The Committee has provided

recommendations to Council on how to distribute funds into our Community via annual grants budget. Has provided input on setting criteria established to assist the Committee in determining recommendations.

• Met twice a year in the Local Government Centre and was open to the public.

Murray Bridge Gallery • This Committee has assisted Council and

the Gallery Director in the day to day running and direction of strategic issues affecting the Regional Gallery.

• Met 2nd Wednesday of each month at the Regional Gallery and is open to the public.

Review of Arrangements for Use of Ovals Working Party • This Committee was disbanded. It was an

advisory committee in relation to issues associated with town oval licences.

Traffic Safety (Manure on Roads) Committee • This Committee was formed to address

and make recommendations in relation to the issue of manure on roads creating safety issues on roads at Monteith, Toora, Jervois & Woods Point. Progress on gaining a recommendation position has been slow.

• Met as required in the Local Government Centre and was open to the public.

Youth Advisory Committee • This Advisory Committee comprises of local

youth who act as Council’s Youth Advisory Committee. The Committee has been an active partner with Council in addressing youth affairs.

• Met 2nd Tuesday of each month in the Local Government Centre and was open to the Public.


TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITIES Council’s Elected Members’ Training & Development Policy (G:3) outlines Council’s commitment to provide training and development activities for its Elected Members and recognizes its responsibility to develop and adopt a policy for this purpose under Section 80A of the Local Government Act. Elected Members have continued to receive regular informal updates on changes to Legislation as it applies through regular briefings and are encouraged and do attend various Local Government structured training sessions, seminars and conferences. COMPETITIVE TENDERING STATEMENT Council has a Tender policy which establishes criteria for competitive tendering processing and level of financial delegations to its staff. No policies or bylaws exist which restrict competition. No complaints were received regarding our policy documentation. Council successfully conducts a Regional Gallery following a request from the Community to establish and continues with the support of the local art community. It does not compete with any existing businesses. The Lerwin Nursing Home was established by the Community in 1983 and continues to meet a need along with other Nursing Home providers within the Council area. During the 2005/2006 review year, Council formally advertised and accepted the following competitive tenders for the provision of goods and services, and the values indicated and/or the payments made in the 2005/2006 for such tenders were: ITEM VALUE Stormwater Catchment 2 Stage 2 $383,320.00 Road Re seals $377,153.52 Rubble Crushing $112,909.09 Catchment 21 Drainage Works $547,543.85 Corporate Wardrobe (approx) $49,600.00 Purchase New Wheel Loader ** $234,600.00 Purchase of Two Bobcats ** $137,000.00 Purchase of Truck and Trailer ** $224,306.36 Purchase of Two Wheel Drive Tractor ** $53,482.00 TOTAL VALUE OF TENDERS ACCEPTED AND/OR PAID IN 2005/2006

$2,119,914.82

**Excluding GST In addition, Council accepted publicly competitive tenders in previous financial years that continue to apply in the 2005/2006 year and possibly beyond including: • Cleaning Contract • Fleet Vehicles • Stationery Supply • Audit Services • Security • Urban Growth Management Strategy


STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT PLAN Council adopted its Strategic Management Plan in September 2005 – appendix 4. Vision for 2025 A great place to live, work and enjoy, featuring:

- a strong community pride and a welcoming community; - enhanced natural environments, conserved heritage and cultural diversity; - thriving and quality rural, industry, business and tourism sectors; - well planned opportunities for growth, employment and quality of life; and - strong levels of interdependence and interaction with the broader Murraylands Community.

Strategic Priorities

1. Growth management 2. Infrastructure Provision 3. Community Planning & Facilities 4. Environment Improvements 5. Income Generation

Council’s review of progress against the Strategic Management Plan is detailed in appendix 5, January 2006, and notes excellent and ahead of time compliance with key goals and targets.


CORPORATE & COMMUNITY SERVICES The Corporate & Community Services Department consists of the following areas: • Finance • Customer Services • Records Management • Community Development • IT Services • Asset Management • Marketing & Special Events • Visitor Information Centre • Library CUSTOMER SERVICES The following graph details both counter and phone contacts from July 2005 until June 2006 -

CUSTOMER SERVICE STATISTICS 05-06

824

1570

1056

607

887

1137

706

889

1530

584

837985

1594

1933 1951

1748

2425

2029

2216

26012727

2093

2494 2462

0

500

1000

1500

2000

2500

3000

Jul-05 Aug-05 Sep-05 Oct-05 Nov-05 Dec-05 Jan-06 Feb-06 Mar-06 Apr-06 May-06 Jun-06

MONTH

TOTA

LS

FRONT COUNTER PHONE CALLS Linear (PHONE CALLS) Linear (FRONT COUNTER) The graph below represents the type of complaints and enquiries and the totals we received over the front counter. Quite clearly rate payments as expected are the largest issue we dealt with followed by general enquiries and Dog Registrations.

COMPLAINTS AND ENQURIES JULY 05 - JUNE 06

0

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1500

2000

2500

3000

3500

PLANNING

OTHER

HACC

RATES

GENERAL ENQUIRY

DOG REGO

BURNING

BUILDING

HIRE, HALL

S, RESERVES

ROADS

SUNDRY DEBTS

ACCOUNTS

ANIMALS

APPOINTMENTS

CAT TRAP

COMPLAINT

COMMUNITY SERVICES

ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH

FLOODING

MAPPING

PROPERTY SEARCH

CEMETERY

COURIER

PARKING

RUBBISH

MASTERS GAMES

FLOODING M

EMORABILIA

TYPE

TOTA

L


RECORDS MANAGEMENT Council commenced a review of its current Electronic Records Management System (TRIM) in early 2005 and it was decided that the system would be upgraded. Project management was undertaken by staff and implementation of the project will commence in early 2006/2007. COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT Community Development embraces the following services: • Community Services • Youth & Indigenous • Crime Prevention • Regional Gallery Community Services The Community Services department undertook the following activities during 2005/2006: Community Grants and Donations Grants of $41,033 were made available to community groups upon application. Community Cultural Development Advisory Committee (CCDAC) Established in 1998 the Committee is an advisory body to council with the following objectives: • to guide the cultural development and vibrancy of Murray Bridge • to encourage community participation in cultural activities • to develop cultural policy for the Rural City of Murray Bridge • to advocate for a holistic approach to development and future planning that takes arts and

cultural development considerations into account • to provide advice and make recommendations to Council on activities and projects which meet

these objectives. Highlights • the Grand Piano Soirée – celebrated in the Sculpture Court at the Regional Gallery • Mayoral Ball and Grand Piano fundraiser • Hazara Women Refugee Support Project • New arrival Mayoral Reception The CCDAC is undertaking a review of Council’s Cultural Plan which will analyse the existing culture, cultural assets and cultural aspirations of the community. Accessibility Advisory Committee (AAC) This Committee advises Council on issues of accessibility and equity for all people with a disability, assisting Council to meet its obligations under the Disability Discrimination Act 1992. Projects instigated by the AAC include: • formulation and implementation of the Disability Action Plan • instrumental in the development of a new kerbing profile • provision and installation of personal lifting equipment at the Murray Bridge Olympic Pool • improved facilities with disability-friendly access at Long Island Reserve, the Regional Gallery,

Visitor Information Centre and the Local Government Centre. • securing additional disabled car parking within the CBD • holding of Wheelie Wheelie Good Day – gopher information awareness • installation of a “Liberty Swing” at Sturt Reserve playground • provision of state of the art sensory equipment at the Public Library • nominated for SA Great Regional Awards • International Day of People with a DisAbility celebrations at Sturt Reserve


• supported and provided improved signage to the Murray Bridge Rowing Club Adaptive Rowing Program

• provided new uniforms for the Tri State Games team Youth & Indigenous The Rural City of Murray Bridge is extremely active in the area of youth affairs. Youth Advisory Committee (YAC) Committee comprising 15 young people aged between 12 and 25 years facilitated by Council’s Youth & Indigenous Officer and support from the Mayor and an Elected Member. The RCMB YAC is thought to be one of the best performing of its type in the State and recently won ongoing funding from the Office for Youth. YAC has played an integral role in the following initiatives: • Murraylands Youth Website – winner of the 2005 National Awards for Local Government

“National Excellence Award” and “Youth Engagement” category for a Council with a ratepayer base less than 15,000.

• National Youth Week including Day of Drama, Beach Party, Sporting Challenge, Beach Volleyball, Indigenous Gathering, YAC with YAC, Chocolate Eating Competition, Cultural Activities, Movie Deal and Battle of the Bands.

• Skate Park • Youth Centre • Beach Volleyball • Beat the Boredom Strategy Indigenous Affairs Council has been working towards strengthening links with the indigenous community. Initiatives in which Council has been involved include: • Pomberuk – cultural centre located on the banks of the River Murray • Ngoppon Together • ReconciliAction Network • NAIDOC Week • Reconciliation Day Crime Prevention The Crime Prevention program for 2005/2006 has continued to facilitate four (4) highly successful projects in partnership with the Attorney General’s Department Crime Prevention Unit, local police and local Neighbourhood Watch for the well being and safety of the local residents. The four projects are: • Your Home Your Caste – Domestic Break and Enter project • Motorsafe City – immobiliser project • Graffiti – No Tolerance project • Transition House – Community Domestic Violence Intervention Program A funding application through the National Crime Prevention Program was completed in November 2005 for the “Identif-Eyes” CCTV surveillance project. Unfortunately Council was unsuccessful.


Regional Gallery 2005/2006 saw volunteer numbers settle. A roster was established for the 16 regular volunteers. Ongoing training and familiarisation sessions assisted with management of all the volunteers. The gallery continues to present a variety of exhibitions with visitor numbers continuing to grow and strong growth in the sales area. Highlights • Filmed for a segment of the television show “Postcards” to be aired in August 2006. • Record visitor numbers for an individual artist were recorded for local artist’s exhibition Marine

Ecology. • Hosted Pictures in my Heart – an exhibition by Afghani refuges in July 2005 – with the event

winning the Australia Day Community Event of the Year award. • Various events held in the Sculpture Court including Soroptimist’s dinner, International

Women’s Day, Recognition of Staff function and RCMB Web site launch and the Volunteers Thank You dinner.

Exhibition

Days opened to the Public

Visitor Numbers

Art & Fibre Exhibition 23 219 Pictures in my Heart 21 609 Passions 23 579 Prison Art 26 407 Punttu Family/Murraylands Art & Craft Collective 25 400 MB Regional Art Society 20 258 Marine Ecology 27 879 Rotary Art Show 1017 Multifarious 18 252 Light from the Lakes 15 227 La Luce Di Vita 17 192 TOTAL 215 5039 IT SERVICES Local Area Network Is reviewed and upgraded continuously to ensure that Council’s network hardware and software is well maintained. Council’s corporate software has been upgraded to Microsoft XP. Local Government Software The “Authority” suite of local government software is utilised by Council. These software modules have been developed by Civic Australia Pty Ltd. Upgrades to the Authority package occur on an ongoing basis. Library Software An online library catalogue is available on the Council’s website at www.murraybridge.sa.gov.au. GIS/Spatial Information Software Additional “layers” specific to Council have been implemented on the Council’s MAPINFO spatial information and these are used extensively throughout the organisation. Website Council’s “new look” website was launched in July 2005. The website is continually monitored and information updated as required. During the next financial year Council is hoping to add an on line cemetery database and also EServices which will assist residents and ratepayers in the conducting of their business with the Council without having to attend the Local Government Centre e.g. paying of rates, development applications, dog registrations etc.


ASSET MANAGEMENT All Councils have been faced with the challenge during 2005/2006 of commencing to prepare long term asset management plans to address sustainability issues within Local Government. This involved Council taking stock of its land and buildings and assessing them against strategic objectives. During this process Council identified several parcels of vacant land which have been declared surplus to operational requirements. Capital works in 2005/2006 included: • a substantial upgrade of the historic Town Wharf • construction of a purpose built facility for displaced community groups at the Council depot • upgrade of the Long Island Jetty • construction of a storage shed for swimming pool blankets and a chemical storage shed Improvements included: • removal of asbestos eaves and replacement • ceiling replacements in the Johnstone Park Combined Clubrooms A major success during the year was the finalisation and formulation of licence agreements between Council and the town’s football clubs that utilise the Council’s ovals after many years of negotiations. Leases and licences were also negotiated for the following community bodies: • Christian Reserve Combined Sporting Facility • lease of former Redlegs Football Clubrooms to a multi use facility • relocation of the Murray Bridge CWA • functional shared use of the upstairs Town Hall rooms Policy formulation and procedural frameworks continue to be undertaken and this year’s direction focussed on Council’s riverfront land. The Council has set the broad scope of its vision for riverfront policy development and management which will be identified in a series of management plans to be formulated in 2006/2007. The wider functionality of Asset Management ensures that Council’s buildings are compliant with relevant legislation. It is Council’s aim to not only benchmark against these mandatory legislative guidelines but to achieve a higher quality assurance in relation to our facilities. During the year Council worked with members of the Swanport Dockyard, Captain’s Cottage Museum and Monarto War Memorial Hall Management Committees to ease the burden of operating under a Management Committee regulatory auspice and allowing these members to enjoy their passion for their respective entities as volunteers/lessees without the onerous task of formal Committee meeting procedures. Council staff will be assessing all other Section 41 Management Committees over the coming year. Many road issues have been investigated ranging from private encroachments onto Council’s roads, closure of unmade road reserves in our rural areas and road realignments to ensure that the actual road centrelines match those on the property cadastres. The Roads Opening and Closing Act does not allow these processes to be undertaken in a short timeframe, and as such these issues have taken considerable resources to undertake. A review of the Asset Management module in Council’s Authority software and a decision was made to utilise this software more extensively and as such the development and programming of Council’s corporate software was undertaken, creating the first leasing and licensing register which now has national recognition.


Council was also short listed to the top three within the State for the Local Government Managers Association Risk Manager of the Year Awards but narrowly missed out on taking the top prize. The unit also acted as Project Co-ordinator for the Work for the Dole project with many valued community projects being undertaken including landscaping works at the Roundhouse and Community Lifestyles. This year also saw the finalisation of the Town Hall Structural Engineer’s report on the Town Hall with many issues resulting from this report for Council to assess and resolve. The Town Hall Project Management Group is charged with taking a strategic view on the long term usage and requirements of the Town Hall in consultation with the community. MARKETING & SPECIAL EVENTS The new role of Project Manager – Marketing and Special Events was initiated by Council in July 2005 to provide support to the various Council run and sponsored events within the community and achieving an improved public image for Council via a marketing campaign. Annual events such as the Australian International Pedal Prix, the Christmas Pageant and Australia Day Awards were held with great success. Two new events were secured for 2006/2007 – the 50th Anniversary of the 1956 Flood and the Regional Masters Games. Marketing programs include: • revamp of advertising in the Murraylands Visitors Guide • upgrade of events and business directory on Council’s website • Town Entrance sign project – new signage for 2006/2007 financial year Visitor Information Centre Visitation Figures for 2005/2006 to the Visitor Information Centre July 1531

August 1542

September 1762

October 1969

November 1804

December 1596

January 2097

February 1694

March 2343

April 1988

May 1732

June 1339

TOTAL 21397


These figures indicate a 2.2% decline in visitors to the Centre however there has been a 14.7% increase in the number of overseas visitors. Volunteer hours has averaged 80 hours per week. Ongoing training in computer courses at TAFE, First Aid Courses and Customer Service training has occurred. All volunteers have been provided with a polo shirt and vest with both the Rural City of Murray Bridge logo and the Visitor Information Centre logo. he Co-ordinator is a representative on the Murraylands Region Working Party and will continue in this role until the end of 2006/2007. PUBLIC LIBRARY The Public Library acts as the regional library for both the Murraylands and Murray Mallee regions. General Services The library offers an extensive collection of print and non print materials including adult and children’s fiction and non-fiction, CD’s, DVD’s and videos, magazines and newspapers. Computers are available for use in the library by patrons. Online Services An online library catalogue is available on the Council’s website at www.murraybridge.sa.gov.au. Internet Services Five terminals for free Internet access are available Services to Children Programmes are run by library staff and volunteers during school holidays. One staff member visits the Early Learning Centre each week to don the storyteller’s cape. A relationship with local schools is developing with classes visiting the library regularly. Services to the Aged and Homebound The Friends of the Library deliver books to home bound residents. This supplements the regular loans to the Hospital Day Centre facility and various retirement villages and nursing homes. A library service is also provided to Mobilong Prison. Other Events The Friends of the Library conduct monthly book sales as well as street stalls. The annual Garden Party was held but unfortunately due to inclement weather was held indoors at the Local Government Centre.


DEVELOPMENT & ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES The Regulatory Services Unit administers policies and legislative requirements on behalf of Council and has a significant influence upon the quality of life our community enjoys and upon the environment in which we live. The department can be split into four broad areas of activity:- • Land Use Planning • Building Control • Public & Environmental Health • Local Laws / Animal Management Activity in these areas extends from day to day operation and implementation by staff, through to policy advice and strategic direction setting in liaison with the elected Council. In all, there are over 15 separate pieces of formal legislation which the staff administer and/or must have regard for. This is in addition to the various policies and regulations which sit under these Acts. During the year Council employed (vacancies) an additional Environmental Health Officer, a Cadet Planner and two qualified Planners, increasing the staffing levels of this department to 11 staff and one manager.

WASTE WATER MANAGEMENT Council has been active in investigating and supporting some common effluent wastewater solutions for riverside shack communities. This work is part of a broader project to provide household waste water management solutions for up to 10 communities within the Council area.

BUILDING SERVICES Council’s Development Assessment Officer (Building) carried out audit inspections of building work throughout the Council area in accordance with the Building Inspection Policy. Council’s Building Fire Safety Committee includes representatives from the MFS/CFS and is responsible for the checking of fire safety provisions in new and existing buildings. Of particular interest to the Committee are those types of buildings that may constitute a high fire safety risk, such as boarding houses, motels etc.

INSPECTORIAL SERVICES Council’s After Hours service answered over 400 calls this year. These calls were predominately dog related enquiries. Other calls were general enquiries, depot related matters, burning complaints, compliance issues, wandering stock, alarm call outs and By-Law infringements.

FLAMMABLE MATTER 200 notices were issued for flammable matter during the 2005/2006 Fire Danger Season. Wherever possible, property owners were contacted personally or by telephone, which resulted in considerable savings to Council for notice costs and postage.

DOMESTIC BURNING Council became part of Schedule 1 of the Environment Protection Authority’s Domestic Burning Policy in May 2004, this enables Council restrict burning of rubbish within the township boundary. Permits to burn in the township are restricted to special circumstances.


PARKING Following extensive notification through schools, flyers and newspaper articles, illegal parking in and around school has been addressed and appears to be improving.

DEVELOPMENT COMPLIANCE This area of planning, which involves enforcing conditions of development authorisations and unapproved changes of land use and building work, is often under-resourced and reactive in nature. This has been true this year, with planning staff leaving and a replacement being very difficult to find, taking many months to achieve. However, staff continue to negotiate effectively with individual landowners to achieve an acceptable, legal outcome, without resorting to legal proceedings. DEVELOPMENT ASSESSMENT The Development Assessment unit has processed 813 applications for development in the past year which included a high percentage of common proposals for such things as carports and household extensions, through to multi million dollar industrial developments requiring in depth technical, environmental and economic assessment. The variety and number of application received reflect the growing interest in Murray Bridge and nearby townships as places for living, working and recreation. During the year two major land division proposals were started, A V Jennings containing 256 allotments of various sizes including a major feature reserve and wetlands. The other was on the site of the former drive-in for 47 allotments. Preliminary work began during the reporting period for the Urban Growth Study, which will indicate the likely growth of the town over the next 20 years and the best area to cater for the growth. The conflicts that can sometimes occur as a result of increased and intensified land use present an exciting and challenging prospect for Council to manage, but also signify a time of prosperity and growth for the area.

APPLICATIONS FOR NEW DWELLINGS 1 JULY 2005 TO 30 JUNE 2006

TOWN NO OF DWELLINGS

Murray Bridge 155 Riverglen 1 White Sands 1 Woods Point 2 Wellington 2 Monteith 0 Greenbanks/Sunnyside 3 Mypolonga 4 Monarto 3 Rockleigh 2 Callington 3 Toora 1 Burdett 1 Woodlane 1 Wall Flat 1


RCMB DEVELOPMENT APPLICATIONS 1 JULY, 2005 TO 30 JUNE, 2006

NATURE OF DEVELOPMENT

Applications Received

% of Total

Class 10 buildings (sheds, verandahs, carports etc)

388

New Dwellings (single dwellings, multi-dwelling arrangements, retirement village units)

180

Land Divisions (including Community Title & S 49) 107 Residential extensions/alterations, habitable outbuildings

54

Commercial uses (shops, offices, consulting rooms)

33

Industrial Uses (workshops, motor repairs) 7 Other (animal keeping, swimming pools, temporary accommodation signage

44

TOTAL 813

PLAN AMENDMENT REPORTS The Rural City of Murray Bridge has commenced the development of several Plan Amendment Reports (PAR’s) within the Council area. These PAR’s contain proposed policies for the purposes of controlling development within the Council area, or specific localities within the Council area such as zones or policy areas. Similarly, a PAR may also alter or introduce zones, policy areas, structure plans or concept plans to help guide and control development. Some of these PAR’s are nearing finalisation, and the outstanding PAR’s from last financial year include the: Minor Township PAR, Minor Light Industry PAR, Primary Industry PAR and Narooma PAR. The Minor Townships PAR and the Minor (Light Industry) PAR have undergone agency and public consultation from last financial year. Public consultation for the Minor Townships PAR ended in November 2005, and the public hearing was held in December 2005. The planning policies stipulated within the Minor Township PAR provide new Objectives and Principles of Development control for township development across the Country Township Zone of the Council area, along with providing expansion for Mypolonga and Jervois. After investigations and consultation with community interest groups and agency representatives, Council resolved not to proceed with the expansion of Monteith at this stage due to the additional costs required to provide infrastructure. The documentation for the PAR has been prepared for submission to the Minister for endorsement. In addition, the Minor (Light Industry) PAR involves the rezoning of land in the Residential Zone west of the Murray Bridge Town Centre to light industry. Two sites form the basis for this rezoning proposal as they have developed as the focus for industrial and commercial development for Murray Bridge. They include both 136 Adelaide Road and 125 Maurice Road which are located on major connector roads into Murray Bridge adjoining General Industry Zone and providing a by-pass around Murray Bridge to Mannum. The public consultation period ended in November 2005, and public hearing was held in December 2005. The PAR has been sent to the Minister for authorisation. The Rural PAR has progressed through a second round of industry and public consultation and has been revised in accordance with submissions and in line with the Planning SA/PIRSA Bulletin.


Council is currently preparing the final the document for Council endorsement prior to submission to the Minister for authorisation. Negotiations between agencies has held up the progress of the Narooma PAR and Murray Park (National Foods) PAR. The Narooma PAR has proceeded through the agency and public consultation process and is waiting for agreement in relation to the delineation between Flood Zone and Residential Zone.

DEVELOPMENT ASSESSMENT PANEL The Panel is the decision making authority for Council in relation to Development Applications and has been instituted since July 2001. The Panel has eight members, three of whom are elected members, the Mayor is also a member. The remaining four panel members are comprised of qualified persons (not staff) and community representatives. One of these positions has been vacant for a number of months. The Panel held 12 meetings over the year and considered 39 reports. 22 approvals were granted, 6 applications were refused and 11 were deferred seeking further information.

ENVIRONMENT RESOURCES & DEVELOPMENT COURT There were four (4) appeals lodged with the Environment Resources & Development Court during the 2005/2006 financial year, that were for applications which had been refused by Council, the Court decided in each case was to overturn Council’s decision.

DOG REGISTRATIONS The total number of dogs registered for the period was 5500. Council’s Rangers responded to 400 wandering dog complains of which 180 dogs were returned straight back to the owners. 220 dogs were impounded with 60 being claimed by their owners, 145 unfortunately were euthanised and 15 were successfully placed in new homes. Rangers investigated 20 dog attack/harassment situations and 80 noise (barking) complaints. Staff also dealt with a number of wandering stock issues. Council has conducted a broad advertising program to make people aware of when dog registrations are due.

LITTER Illegal dumping of waste/litter continues despite Council’s efforts to control it. Whenever rubbish or litter is dumped, Council’s officers search for some evidence of the offender’s identity in the rubbish so action can be taken against the offender. Fines are heavy for this offence and in certain circumstances Council will take court action against offenders. The cost to the community for this illegal activity is very high. If litter is seen, it should be reported to Council. Never rummage through dumped rubbish as needles are often found and Council’s officers carry protective equipment for the handling of these items.

ORDER MAKING POLICY The Policy is a tool for enforcing matters deemed to be a nuisance or danger to the public, which may include matters such as wandering stock, the keeping of bees and noisy animals. Fines may be imposed on persons who fail to comply with an Order issued under the Policy.


BY-LAWS Council has a number of By-Laws. These relate to: • Permits and Penalties – the means of setting penalties and fines for breaches of By-Laws. • Council Land – use of, or control of, Council owned or controlled land other than streets or

roads. • Roads – control of roads vested in Council. • Moveable Signs – control of sandwich boards on footpaths. • Dogs – for the management of dog numbers in private homes. • Lodging houses – for the control of licencing and regulation lodging houses. • Taxis – to be repealed (not yet completed). • Building sites – to control building waste. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH

IMMUNISATION Council continues to provide a comprehensive immunisation service. Monthly clinics are held at the Local Government Centre. Vaccinations are carried out at pre-schools, kindergartens, Child Care Centres and the two High Schools in accordance with the NHMRC immunisation schedule by Council’s immunisation nurse. Approximately 600 vaccinations were given to High School students this year. Hepatitis B, Boostrix and Varicella (Chicken Pox) vaccinations were carried out in the high schools. Council has also provided immunisation service to Afghan refugees for both children and adults through the Community Health Centre. Increased numbers of workplace flu vaccinations were also given at several venues and also to Council staff. Some school staff were immunised with Boostrix this year due to several outbreaks of Whooping Cough in the community. Council Immunisation Nurse also assisted with a Government funded program for the Aboriginal population. FOOD SAFETY Routine inspections of food businesses using the ASFA system continued throughout the year with additional inspections carried out when required. Twelve Improvement Notices were issued against food businesses during the year, many of which related to the structural suitability of the food premises. Eight food complaints were received in the reporting period relating to alleged food poisoning, contamination with foreign objects and bodily fluids. The recall of Conroy Products increased the workload of the Officers and the number of inspections that were required. Another environmental health officer was employed in the second half of 2005. This has helped increase the number of food inspections being carried out.


A Food Hygiene Training Course based on the Australian Food Safety Essentials Handbook and Video has been developed and it is anticipated that this course will be provided to food handlers in the second half of 2006. To assist small bakeries in supplying safe food the Department of Health has asked for council’s environmental health officers’ assistance. The Department of Health has asked that bakeries be thoroughly inspected to ensure safe operating practices are employed and that construction standards meet legal requirements. The Department has also requested that reports detailing the findings and proposed actions be completed and forwarded to them quarterly. All bakeries in the Council area have been inspected in the first half of 2006 some more than once. Some non-compliance issues are currently being followed up and the first quarterly report has been forwarded to the Department of Health. PUBLIC AND ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH To maintain adequate levels of public and environmental health in the community, Council’s Environmental Health Officers have been engaged in the following activities in the past twelve months: • Provision of sharps containers to the public. (provided free to diabetics). • Communicable disease interviews and investigations as requested by Dept. of Health. • Mosquito surveillance, education and control work including on site inspections with Uni. SA

mosquito control laboratory personnel. • Inspections and testing of public swimming pools. • Approval and inspection of new septic tank systems and plumbing work. In the past twelve

months council has approved 122 new septic tank systems. Approx. 30 of these were to existing dwellings. Over this reporting period 16 maintenance orders were issued under Regulation 19 of the waste control regulations, 7 Notices were issued under Section 15 of the Public and Environmental Health Act and 1 Notice under Section 17 of the Public and Environmental Health Act.

• Pollution prevention and control incorporating odour, insects, animal wastes and stormwater. • DrumMuster chemical container collections. A collection was run in March 2006 at which 3000

containers were collected and another collection is scheduled for October, 06. • Reporting to the Department of Health. • Inspections of commercial premises. • Attendance at Dept. of Health training on new public health standards for hair dressing salons.

New guidelines are being distributed to hairdressers and an audit inspection undertaken at the same time.

WASTE OIL DISPOSAL The public are continuing to make use of the free automotive oil collection facility at the Brinkley Landfill. A service is now also being provided at the Landfill adjacent to the waste oil collection facility for the collection and recycling of used oil containers so that they are kept out of the landfill. This is also a free service to ratepayers.


INFRASTRUCTURE & TECHNICAL SERVICES The Infrastructure and Technical Services Department embraces the following key functional areas of Council’s overall business – Technical Services (Engineering); Operations (Depot), Horticulture and Olympic Swimming Pool.

STORMWATER – PRIORITY WORK STARTS Upgrading stormwater infrastructure has been a major priority for the Rural City of Murray Bridge Council. The effect of the floods in 2004 enabled us to identify some of the areas where the existing stormwater infrastructure needs upgrading. This allowed us to plan steps to lessen the effect of such storm events, albeit storms of the magnitude experienced earlier are statistically infrequent. Priority work commenced with the assistance of State Government funding through the Catchment Management Subsidy Scheme Funding and the Natural Resource Management Board for major works including: • Building a pipe system through properties and under Torrens Road on the east side of Murray

Bridge. • Building a new pipe network and detention basin in the Christian Road and Rural Avenue area. • A new combined wetland and detention basin on the corner of Old Swanport Road and Rural

Avenue, the wetland providing treatment of stormwater prior to storage in the underground aquifer.

Stored water will be used for irrigation water, lessening reliance on the River Murray. Stage 2 of the Adelaide Road system – a pipe connecting the Greenlands detention basin near the Bremer Road Cemetery to the Saleyards area on Thomas Street, was completed Christmas 2005. This water is now used for the Cemetery irrigation, again lessening reliance on the River Murray. Stage 3, involving significant work on the upper reaches of Adelaide Road, will commence mid 2006. Other minor systems, not attracting State Government funding have been completed include; • Christian Road Drain from Maurice Road to Norman Street • Caroline Street to McHenry Street through Meyer Road, Eleanor Terrace and Charles Street.

ROAD AND FOOTPATH CONSTRUCTION Council’s efforts in the infrastructure area are not limited to stormwater only. Significant road works and many new footpaths occurred this year. New roads constructed are Standen Street, in two section, and Flavel Terrace including a new footpath.

Re-Construction of Standen Street Re- Construction of Flavel Terrace Roads constructed and reconstructed were Alma Avenue, Warner and Lincoln Roads, Siesta Drive, Dorset Street and Ashbrook Road, Blackwood Avenue, Carter Road, Old Princes Highway / Ferries


Mc Donald Road (Blackspot), View Street, Cyprus Terrace, Railway Terrace, Sherwood Road, Fifth Street Resealing of roads occurred to East Terrace, Ellendale Avenue, Balanada Drive, Bywaters Road, The Point Road. A number of footpaths have been completed including those at Pugh and Hirt Avenue linking residents of the Murraylands Retirement Village to the existing footpath network. Footpaths at Princes Highway, Jacaranda Street, Day Court and Adrian Street have been constructed. Council has completed a further section of footpath on Adelaide Road as part of the beautification of this important entrance to Murray Bridge. PLEC Stage 3 Adelaide Road - Undergrounding of power lines was also undertaken with the benefit of grants received from the State Government’s PLEC program. As well as planting of new street trees and the installation of the water saving artificial lawns. Construction of the beautification component of this project is almost complete. The cost of the artificial grass is $65/m2 to install compared to lawn at about $50/m2 including irrigation. However the benefits are that there is little maintenance on the artificial grass compared to lawn. Over 15 years, maintenance is considerably high, over $100,000 in maintenance costs for this amount of lawn on Adelaide Road. Construction of the last stage was still in progress by the end of July 2006 which will eventually see the project completed to Maurice Road.

PS MURRAY PRINCESS MOORING Construction of a mooring for the PS Murray Princess and other large river vessels on the western bank of the river just upstream from the road and rail bridges on the 12th December 2005. The PS Murray Princess visits Murray Bridge on Sundays at 2 pm. The materials used in construction of the new mooring consisted of 28 cubic metres of concrete, 11.5 tonnes of locally sourced fabricated steel and 4 tonnes of Kapur timber all of which was successfully assembled and ready for use by the 3rd of February 2006. A combination of Council staff, local contractors and volunteers were used to build the structure. Assistance was received from the South Australian Tourism Commission, Indigenous Business Australia and Tanggulun Piltengi Yunti in association with MBT Steel Fabrication .

Construction Princess Mooring


NEW RECREATION VENUE – PORT MOBILONG LOOKOUT. The Wharf Hill public area incorporating the Port Mobilong Lookout was officially opened by Mayor Allan Arbon on the 7th March 2006. Locally quarried stone which all have significant links to the establishment of South Australia has been located in the area. The stones on display at Wharf Hill are Swanport Granite, Monarto Granite, Murray Bridge Freestone and Kanmantoo Blue Stone.

During Construction After construction

NEW PLANT • Truck & trailer • Tractor for slashing • Front end loader • Two utility work machines for mowing reserves, landscaping etc BRINKLEY LANDFILL Progress has been made towards a solution to the problem of preparation of Cell 6 in a manner deemed satisfactory to the EPA. Considerable time and resources have been expended to bring us to the point where a solution was reached which will allow Cell 6 to be constructed and continue to receive waste. There are considerable cost implications in providing a cell design that the EPA will endorse. The good news is that in going through this exercise there have been a number of long term cost cutting measures that have been identified which will be incorporated into the design of future cells. These include the creation of super cells which are deeper and larger cells than those as currently envisioned. Significant funds were deferred from Council’s road budget to assist with compliance with new EPA Standards.

MURRAY BRIDGE SWIMMING CENTRE The Murray Bridge Swimming Centre continued to attract patrons with Diving South Australia holding a come and try session and the annual Vacation swim lessons occurred. The Olympic sized and heated pool offers lap swimming and competition opportunities through the Murray Bridge Amateur Swimming Club. New beach volleyball courts opened early March.


LERWIN NURSING HOME – 2005-2006

Lerwin Nursing Home is a 75 bed facility that provides accommodation for people who have a high level of need for continuous nursing care. Lerwin is located in Joyce Street and is designed as a stand-alone facility, however, the home is a business unit of Council and Local Government Centre staff assist in a number of functional areas of administration and governance including accounting, payroll, and human resources. Accreditation Round 3 Accreditation Audit was carried out by two external assessors from the Aged Care Standards and Accreditation Agency on 6th & 7th of February 2006. The audit found Lerwin to be compliant with 43 of 44 standards. The audit was very positive overall with a good level of resident and representative feedback indicating a high level of satisfaction with the services received. The one area identified as needing work was made a priority with the Agency check on progress in June finding the home to be now fully compliant with all standards. Staffing Registered Nurses remain in short supply and this continues to be an issue of concern at Lerwin and the industry in general. This year, Lerwin was successful in securing the services of several new Registered and a number of new Enrolled nurses during the build up to full occupancy after completion of the expansion project. The number of shifts that have needed to be covered by agency staff this year has again remained low. A number of new care staff were also employed to meet the care needs of residents in the expanded facility. Lerwin again hosted several groups of personal care and nursing students for part of their practical placements. This practice continues to be fruitful in identifying potential employees when vacancies become available. LGA Compensation Scheme figures for Lerwin released in April indicated a continuation of Lerwin’s strong performance in relation to work injuries, with the indicated rebate rising again for the coming year. Resident Activities Resident activities are an important feature of the care provision at Lerwin. This year, due to the expansion project the activities program was not quite as wide ranging as past years however the many events and outings were organized: A number of dedicated volunteers have continued to assist residents at Lerwin this year. Their efforts are very much appreciated by both residents and staff. Volunteers have assisted with resident activities, feeding of residents, piano playing, running a knitting club and general visiting and talking to residents and the “Timber and Tools” program focusing on interests for men. Several volunteers have also brought pets in for visits with residents.

Expansion Project Stage 2 of the expansion project included renovation of the oldest parts of the facility and hand over date for the refurbished building was 19th August 05 as planned. The Certificate of Occupancy was gained on 29th August with residents being admitted from that date. The works were completed within the budget approved by Council.


The scale up continued from September with full occupancy and staffing achieved during February 2006. A highly successful official opening was held on October 12th with the State Governor, Her Excellency Marjorie Jackson-Nelson officiating. Many positive comments were received, both about the day and the refurbished facilities.

SA Governor - Her Excellency Marjorie Jackson-Nelson

& Mayor Allan Arbon declare the extensions open

Lerwin Admissions - 2005/2006 Financial year Permanent resident admissions – 52 Respite admissions – 20 Permanent residents diagnoses Dementia Neurological Other 32 18 22 Average occupancy was 90.5% for the year. Generous donations from a number of service clubs, individuals and bequests from families and friends of former residents were again allocated for the building fund. These donations were gratefully received and assisted with financing the building project.


COMMUNITY CARE PROGRAMS 2005 - 2006 The Community Care programs administered from the Rural City of Murray Bridge provide services that broadly target frail and at risk aged persons or younger disabled adults with moderate to severe disabilities who without the assistance of these programs would be at risk of entering residential care prematurely. The programs are provided through a partnership between Council and Commonwealth and State Governments. Council is one of a number of service providers in our region who each have specified roles and target groups. Council has three distinct program areas these being Home and Community Care consisting of Homeassist, Dementia Care and Transport, National Respite for Carers and Carer’s Group, and Veterans Home Care. The Home and Community Care (HACC) program is a State funded program (although the HACC program itself is a joint Federal / State initiative) which aims to provide a wide range of services to frail aged and disabled people. Council’s HACC funded program operates via a service level agreement that focuses mainly on aged residents (with a smaller component for younger disabled adults). The National Respite for Carers (NRCP) program is a Commonwealth funded program which focuses on providing in-home respite for those who act as carers of the aged or disabled, plus a Carer’s Support Group. Veterans Home Care (VHC) program is a Commonwealth funded program, providing in-home respite and home care assistance to veterans and war widows. In each case, Council contributes significantly to the programs in cash or in kind. Council employs one full time and one part time co-ordinator and a part time administration assistant who manage the program on a day to day basis. • There are currently over 430 active clients registered with Council’s Community Care programs

with some clients using the service more regularly than others. • Nineteen self employed contractors provide in-home services and meet with the Coordinators

bi-monthly for meetings where client related issues are discussed.

HACC PROGRAMS

Volunteer Transport Program The Transport program covers essential trips within the Council area. • Fourteen volunteers support the program transporting clients locally, to the Adelaide Hills and

less frequently, to Adelaide. Volunteers are reimbursed for out of pocket expenses. • The program supports older people with essential shopping. This service is extensively

utilised, with client’s often travelling 2-3 per vehicle making it a social occasion. Volunteers assist with the shopping.

Accessible Bus The Accessible Bus used for Adelaide medical appointments is run in conjunction with the Office of Public Transport. • A ramp is provided for those people with access issues. • The bus is fitted to transport up to 9 people plus 1 wheelchair client. • Clients are transported to all major hospitals in Adelaide and various other medical specialists

and clinics.


• A HACC car is still sent to Adelaide on occasions for exceptional medical circumstances, which may otherwise prohibit a client from attending an appointment. Transportation of younger disabled residents of Murray Bridge continues with the support of the Accessible Bus service.

Home maintenance and modifications. The maintenance program helps with most aspects of minor home repairs such as: • once off gardening assistance • gutter & window clean • changing smoke detector batteries & light bulbs • minor plumbing such as replacing tap washers Assistance with minor home modifications such as grab rails and ramps is also available under this section of the program. The work is undertaken with advice from the Occupational Therapist, from Murray Mallee Health Service and monitored by the Care Coordinators.

Dementia Respite Dementia Respite is a component of Home and Community Care. It is designed to support the carer, caring for a person with cognitive and/or physical impairments. Respite can be conducted in or out of the home.

Domestic Assistance Domestic Assistance and Social Support are a significant part of the overall program and assists clients who have difficultly attending daily tasks or who are socially isolated. The HACC program works closely with other local service providers. National Standards A set of uniform service standards apply across HACC programs nationally. Each HACC funded agency is audited by an external agency every three years to measure compliance against these standards and to encourage agencies to engage in continuous quality improvement. During the past twelve months, Council’s HACC programs were audited with the results showing the service to be of a high standard. Several minor areas of improvement were identified and work to address these items was also commenced.

NATIONAL RESPITE FOR CARERS (NRCP) This program assists carers to maintain a life beyond the home and caring role. It primarily provides the carer with a break for several hours or, on occasions, overnight. Funding provides respite using a trained support worker thus allowing the carer to take a break. The Murray Bridge Carers Group facilitated by Care Coordinators provides support in a number of ways including short bus trips and meetings throughout the year. 7 outings and 5 support group meetings were held during previous twelve months. A two night retreat in Adelaide was facilitated in May for 8 participants. Feedback indicates that these breaks are of great benefit to carers who participate. Friendships are forged, experiences shared and issues discussed. The retreat this year was also supported with a grant from the Carers Association. This program is covered by a set of service delivery standards similar to those of HACC.

VETERAN HOME CARE As a Veterans Home Care Service Provider in this area we provide services to eligible veteran clients in Murray Bridge area as well as Mannum and Tailem Bend. Clients from outside our LGA are serviced on a cost recovery basis. As this program is supplied on the basis of a service delivery contract, quality monitoring is carried out in conjunction with contract management and monitoring by Department of Veterans Affairs.


COLLABORATION WITH OTHER SERVICE PROVIDERS During the past year, program coordinators have been involved in a number of networking and project working groups including the Murray Mallee Aging Taskforce, Dementia Coordinators Regional Network, Buddy Program, Local Government Aged & Community Care Workers Committee, Veterans Affairs Coordinators Network and Volunteer Coordinators Network Meetings. The links provided by these forums are important for the delivery of seamless packages of care for residents of Murray Bridge and the Murray Mallee region.

MURRAY MALLEE AGEING TASKFORCE (MMAT) The MMAT is made up of 30 organisations across the Murray Mallee and meets bi monthly. An Executive Committee elected by members of the full MMAT meets monthly and supervises the work of the project officer Gary Sawyer. The Rural City of Murray Bridge provides administrative support (office space, phones etc), meeting room space and manages the project finances and provides day-to-day guidance and direction to the project officer.

STATISTICS

HACC Volunteer Transport Destination Kilometres Hours Adelaide 2567 61 Local (own vehicle) 26518 2455 Mt Barker 3713 91 Stirling 124 2 Strathalbyn 97 2 Total 33019 2611 Clients by Category Consumers HACC Home Assist - Domestic 52 HACC Home Assist - Maintenance 25 HACC - Dementia 9 Commonwealth Respite for Carers (CRC) 24 Carers Group 20 Veterans Home Care - Domestic 25 Veterans Home Care -Respite 2 Veterans Home Care – Maintenance 3


STAFFING Organisational Reporting An organization chart is attached as appendix 6. The Manager Infrastructure & Technical Services is located at Council’s Depot. The Manager Lerwin is located at the Lerwin Nursing Home. Employment Numbers As at the 30 June, 2006 the Rural City of Murray Bridge employed 228 employees. This comprises a mixture of FTEs, casual, part time and contract staff)

153 are females and 75 males. 68 employed under ASU Award 53 employed under AWU Award 67 employed under HSE Award 33 employed under ANF Award 2 employed under fixed term contracts

OHS Statement Council is mindful of the need to create a safe working environment for all and strives to provide this with continual reinforcement, processes and practices. Members of the Rural City of Murray Bridge Safety Committee are: Peggy Bennett – Chair (Library); Dot Temby (LGC); Dave Allen (Depot Management); Glenn Dean (Depot Staff); Mick Nottle (Depot Outside Staff); Rosann O’Donnell (Lerwin); David Wade (Secretary); Adrienne Tilling (LGA Regional Risk Co-ordinator) and David Altmann Chief Executive Officer. Corporate and internal Occupational Health & Safety policies are in place and accessible by all staff. EEO Statement The Rural City of Murray Bridge is an Equal Employment Opportunities. Code of Conduct The Rural City of Murray Bridge has adopted Code of Conduct principles for staff and Elected Members. Training The Rural City of Murray Bridge adopts an annual staff training plan and also conducts regular Elected Member Elected Member briefing and training sessions. Travel Staff participated in intrastate travel with five staff members participating in national travel. No staff members traveled internationally.


FINANCIAL

Rating As a result of further new subdivisions, building development and revaluations, there was a 21.57% increase in capital valuations within the Rural City of Murray Bridge, giving a total capital value from $1,350,337,640 for 2004/2005 to $1,690,580,480 for 2005/2006. Residential properties have continued to experience significant growth, whilst the commercial and industrial properties continued to have a major revaluation review undertaken by the Office of Valuer General during the 2005/2006 financial year. Council has continued to formalise rate capping in cases where the amount of general rates for 2005/2006 were greater than 25% over the amount of general rates payable for 2004/2005 under Section 166(1) of the Local Government Act 1999. Discretionary rebates can be applied to provide relief to a ratepayer who would have received a substantial rate rise due to a capital valuation increase. This has been offered to the principal ratepayer of an assessment for residential properties – apart from those properties which were not the principal place of residence of the ratepayer. Other categories offered for rate capping were industrial, commercial, primary production and other. Postponement of rates for those who experience hardship which can be due to the increase of capital valuations has also been offered in line with the guidelines for payment arrangement alternatives suggested by the Local Government Association for councils to assist their ratepayers who may be in financial difficulties. Rating rebates of varying percentages were provided by Council to sporting and community bodies, private schools, conservation and heritage areas and retirement villages in the line with Sections 166 to 166 of the Local Government Act, 1999, other rating legislation and Council’s Rate Rebate Policy. An industrial incentive rebate is also provided to assist business under Section 166 of the Local Government Act. BPAY and Australia Post payment facilities, offered as payment arrangement alternatives, have proven to be very popular with the general public and have been well utilised for 2005/2006. Usage of the 24/7 telephone payment system and the ability to pay through Council’s website have also increased which indicates that ratepayers are appreciative of the “one stop payment facilities” which have been offered to them. Ratepayers also utilised the payment facilities offered through Australia Post and the Local Government Centre. Fact sheets compiled and provided by the Local Government Association have also assisted ratepayers to understand the commonly asked question – “What do we get for our Rates?”. A services guide, listing important Council and Emergency Services telephone numbers was also provided to ratepayers. The Rating Policy is attached as Appendix 7. A copy of Council’s Audited Financial Statement for year ending 30 June 2006 is attached as Appendix 8.

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