Gannawarra Shire Council – Ordinary Meeting Agenda
Ordinary Meeting Minutes
Council Chambers, Kerang Wednesday 20 April, 2016 7.00pm
Unconfirm
ed
Gannawarra Shire Council
Ordinary Meeting Minutes
Wednesday 20 April, 2016
7.00pm
1. Apologies 12377
2. Confirmation of Minutes 12377
3. Apologies 12377
4. Confirmation of Minutes 12377
5. Declaration of Pecuniary Interest 12377
6. Question Time 12377
7. Assembly of Councillors 12378
8. Business Reports for Decision 12378
8.7 Application to Amend Planning Permit P14.028 12378
8.1 Domestic Animal Management Plan 12381
8.5 Gunbower Creek Proposed Waterway Rule Changes – Public Consultation 12382
8.2 Community Grants 2015/2016 (Round 2) – Approved Applications 12384
8.3 Audit Committee Report – April 2016 12385
8.4 Mystic Park Recreation Reserve – Proposed Sale of Land 12387
8.6 Fluoridation for Cohuna 12388
9. Information Reports 12390
10. Urgent Items 12390
11. Notices of Motion 12390
12. Delegates Reports 12392
13. Confidential Items 12393
Unconfirm
ed
1 Acknowledgement of Country
2 Opening Prayer
Cr Arians read the Opening Prayer.
Present: Cr Lorraine Learmonth (Yarran Ward), Cr Neville Goulding (Yarran Ward), Cr Mark Arians (Patchell Ward), Cr Oscar Aertssen (Murray Ward), Cr Neil Gannon (Avoca Ward), Cr Keith den Houting (Patchell Ward), Cr Brian Gibson (Patchell Ward), Eric Braslis – Chief Executive Officer, Chris White – Director Strategic Development, Mandy Hutchinson – Director Community Wellbeing, Geoff Rollinson – Director Infrastructure Services, Tom O’Reilly – Director Corporate Services, Lisa Clue – Manager Governance, David Pietsch – Manager Planning, Kellie Burmeister – Statutory Planning Officer and Russell Barnes – Local Laws Team Leader.
Gallery: 8 Media: 1
3 Apologies
Nil
4 Confirmation of Minutes
MOVED: CR ARIANS SECONDED: CR AERTSSEN
That Council: 1. Adopt the minutes from the Ordinary Council Meeting held on 16 March 2016.
CARRIED
5 Declaration of Conflict of Interest
Cr Mark Arians declared an indirect Conflict of Interest by close association in writing for Item 8.2 – Community Grants Program, Application Number 14.
Cr Lorraine Learmonth declared a direct Conflict of Interest in writing for Item 8.2 – Community Grants Program, Application No. 5.
6 Question Time
Question ‐ Karen Clavin – How can Agenda Item 8.5 recommendation be justified given content within the Officer's report, consideration of submissions, the Gannawarra Shire Council Plan and Strategic Tourism Plan and safety issues.
Response ‐ Director Infrastructure Services ‐ Recommendation to prohibit wake enhancing vessels addresses Council concerns around erosion and safety. The Marine Safety Victoria approval process will include assessing public submissions as well as erosion and safety matters.
Response ‐ Chief Executive Officer – The proposed change is to ban wake enhancing vessels, not the wakeboarding activity.
Question ‐ Karen Clavin – What is Council doing, or intending to do to mitigate bank erosion, compaction and destruction of native flora and contamination of the Gunbower Creek?
Response ‐ Director Infrastructure Services – Council is committed to working closely with the Catchment Management Authority to investigate ways to reduce negative environmental and public health issues along the Gunbower Creek.
Gannawarra Shire Council - Ordinary Council Meeting Minutes 20 April 2016
Our Values.... Collaborative, Resourceful, Innovative, Flexible Page 12377 of 12393
Unconfirm
ed
Question ‐ Noel Howard – In relation to Agenda Item 8.7, will community concerns about illegal firewood collection be included in consideration of the application?
Response ‐ Chief Executive Officer – Illegal firewood collection is not relevant to Council’s consideration of the application.
Response ‐ Director Strategic Development – Council has written to relevant legal representatives and is actively investigating concerns raised regarding this matter.
7 Assembly of Councillors
Context In accordance with Section 76A of the Local Government Act 1989 the definition of an Assembly of Councillors is:
A meeting at which matters are considered that are intended or likely to be the subject of a Council decision or the following exercise of a delegated authority and which is either of the following:
1. A planned or scheduled meeting that includes half the Councillors and at least one Officer, or
2. A meeting of an advisory committee where at least one Councillor is present.
3. If a meeting fits either of these types the procedures applying to an Assembly of Councillors must becomplied with, irrespective of any name or description given to the committee or meeting. Not allgatherings or meetings at which Councillors are present will constitute Assembly of Councillors.
The requirement for reporting provides increased transparency and the opportunity for Councillors to check the record, particularly the declaration of Conflict of Interest.
MOVED: CR AERTSSEN SECONDED: CR GOULDING
That Council:
1. Notes the record of Assemblies of Councillors as outlined in this report.
CARRIED
8 Business Reports for Decision
MOVED: CR AERTSSEN SECONDED: CR GOULDING
That Item No. 8.7 – Application to Amend Planning Permit P14.028 be the first Business Report for Decision considered on the Agenda.
CARRIED
8.7 Application to Amend Planning Permit P14.028
Context The existing use of land for the cutting and storage of firewood came to Council’s attention following a complaint from an adjoining property owner. Concern at the time was expressed over the noise associated with the operation causing a loss of amenity in the area. A planning permit for the use was required as the use is a commercial firewood operation and not ancillary to the farming use of the land.
The application was presented to Council for a determination on 20 May 2014 and recommended by Council officers for approval. Council resolved to approve the application with some modifications to recommended conditions in relation to hours of operation.
Gannawarra Shire Council - Ordinary Council Meeting Minutes 20 April 2016
Our Values.... Collaborative, Resourceful, Innovative, Flexible Page 12378 of 12393
Unconfirm
ed
It was recommended that:
Chainsaws may only operate within the following times: ‐ Monday – Friday: 0800 – 1800 ‐ Saturday, Sunday and public holidays: 0900 – 1300
Council resolved that:
Chainsaws may only operate within the following times: ‐ Monday – Friday: 0700 – 2000 ‐ Saturday, Sunday and public holidays: 0900 – 2000
It is also noted that this condition referred only to the use of chainsaws which allowed wood to be stacked/loaded and vehicles to enter and exit the property at any time.
The Council decision was appealed by the objector. The VCAT hearing commenced 14 October 2014. The Tribunal order is as follows:
1) The decision of the responsible authority is varied.
2) The tribunal directs that permit no. P14.028 a permit is granted and directed to be issued for the land at 562 Koondrook‐Murrabit Road, Koondrook on the conditions set out in Apendix A.
3) The permit allows the use of the land for the cutting and storage of firewood in accordance with the endorsed plan.
The variations to the approval that were required included:
1) The addition of an Amended Plan condition to show in more detail the specific activities occurring on the subject land.
2) The addition of a condition specifying ‘No chainsaw cutting associated with this use may occur within 500m of the dwelling at 544 Koondrook – Murrabit Road, Koondrook.
3) The rewording of a condition that specifies ‘The use (including the use of chainsaws) may only operate within the following times: ‐ Monday – Friday 0700 ‐ 1800 ‐ Saturday, Sunday and public holidays 0900 – 1300
This condition now restricts wood stacking/loading and vehicles entering and exiting the property associated with the approved use – not just the use of chainsaws.
The Council consequently issued the permit as directed by the Tribunal with the required changes. On 8
February 2016, the applicants applied to amend their permit by:
‐ Removing reference to ‘Log Buffer Mounds’ in Condition 1 (and ‘Log Buffer’ to be deleted from the endorsed plan).
‐ Delete Condition 6 (Hours of Operation)
The applicants considered that the hours of operation were too restrictive, given the part time nature of the operation. In particular, the hours proved to be problematic for the applicants to arrange truck deliveries within specified hours.
The application was also supported by an acoustic report which specifically assessed the noise levels from the approved use and the effects on the neighbouring property. This was considered in the context of the Noise from Industry in Regional Victoria (NIRV) and planning permit conditions.
Gannawarra Shire Council - Ordinary Council Meeting Minutes 20 April 2016
Our Values.... Collaborative, Resourceful, Innovative, Flexible Page 12379 of 12393
Unconfirm
ed
MOVED: CR AERTSSEN SECONDED: CR GOULDING
That Council:
1. Issue a Notice of Decision to Grant an Amendment to Permit P14.028 with the following conditions:
Amended Plan Prior to the commencement of use, amended plans must be submitted to the satisfaction of the Responsible Authority. The plans must be drawn to scale and generally in accordance with the application plans but amended to show;
The area within which the proposed use is to be confined;
The location of the cutting area (chainsaw area);
Area for the storage of raw material or logs;
Area for the storage of cut material;
Log barrier or noise barrier as required by Condition 10 (EPA);
Proposed and existing tree screen areas;
Truck route within activity area and site.
The plan, once to the satisfaction of the Responsible Authority, shall be endorsed and form part of this permit.
Layout Not Altered The use as shown on the endorsed plan must not be altered without the consent of the Responsible Authority.
Amenity The use must be managed so that the amenity of the area is not detrimentally affected, through the:
transport of materials, goods or commodities to or from the land,
emission of noise, dust or vibration,
any other reason. In the event of any such nuisance in the opinion of the Responsible Authority occurring, additional suitable procedures for suppression must be developed and implemented to the satisfaction of the Responsible Authority.
Dust Control The applicant must ensure that dust suppression is undertaken in the form of water spraying or other natural based proprietary dust suppressant to ensure that dust caused by vehicles moving along the access road does not cause a nuisance to surrounding properties, to the satisfaction of the Responsible Authority.
No more than two (2) chainsaws may be used at any one time.
No Chainsaw cutting associated with this use may occur within 500m of the dwelling at 544 Koondrook‐Murrabit Road, Koondrook.
Gannawarra Shire Council - Ordinary Council Meeting Minutes 20 April 2016
Our Values.... Collaborative, Resourceful, Innovative, Flexible Page 12380 of 12393
Unconfirm
ed
Hours of Chainsaw Operations a) Two chainsaws may operate only within the following times:
Monday – Friday: 0700 – 1800
Saturday: 0900 – 1300
b) One chainsaw may operate only within the following times:
Monday – Friday: 1800 – 2000
Saturday: 1300 – 1800
Sunday and public holidays: 0900 – 1800
Environmental Health Officer The applicant must comply with EPA Publication 1411 – Noise from Industry in Regional Victoria (NIRV) Guidelines.
Engineering The applicant must enter into an agreement with Council’s Engineering Department regarding the necessary removal of vegetation within the Koondrook‐ Murrabit Road reserve to ensure that necessary sightlines to the property access are maintained. Any costs associated with the removal of this vegetation is to be borne by the applicant and is to be to Council’s satisfaction.
Environmental Protection Authority a) Nuisance dust must not be discharged beyond the boundaries of the premises. b) Noise emitted from the premises must not exceed the recommended levels as set
out in Noise from Industry in Regional Victoria (NIRV, EPA Publication 1411, 2011) or as amended.
c) The proponent must provide a report prepared by a suitably qualified person detailing the dimensions of a log or noise barrier required to attenuate noise at nearby sensitive sites to the east/south east of the site, under 41 dB in all climatic conditions to a maximum of 41 dB during evening period and 46 dBA during day period.
d) The proponent must install a log barrier, or noise barrier as recommended by the consultant prior to operational hours of operation being modified. Noise emitted from the premises must not exceed the recommended levels as set out in Noise from Industry in Regional Victoria (NIRV, EPA Publication 1411), or as amended.
2. Allow officers to make any minor corrections to permit conditions where they do not
change the intent of Council’s decision.
CARRIED
8.1 Domestic Animal Management Plan Annual Review
Context The Domestic Animal Management Plan (DAM Plan) is a statutory requirement for every Victorian municipality under the Domestic Animals Act 1994. The plan addresses responsible pet ownership and animal welfare by focussing on registration, identification, dog attacks, nuisance behaviour, dangerous, menacing and restricted breed dogs, and animal businesses. It also deals with Council’s domestic animal control services, authorised officer training, emergency management and matters relating to the enforcement, compliance and evaluation of the Council’s control measures.
Gannawarra Shire Council - Ordinary Council Meeting Minutes 20 April 2016
Our Values.... Collaborative, Resourceful, Innovative, Flexible Page 12381 of 12393
Unconfirm
ed
The current DAM Plan has undergone a review in accordance with the Domestic Animals Act 1994.
The draft Plan has been amended to:
remove reference to DEPI;
update tables within the document to reflect 2015 figures;
ensure the content is reflective of Council’s current practices; and
make the document easier to read and implement.
Also included in this review is the annual update of the performance measures against the activity/evaluation tables. Council is required to include the performance measure update in its annual report, in accordance with Section 68A (3)(c) of the Domestic Animals Act 1994.
MOVED: CR AERTSSEN SECONDED: CR ARIANS
That Council:
1. Adopt the 2015/2016 Domestic Animal Management Plan review as presented.
CARRIED
MOVED: CR DEN HOUTING SECONDED: CR AERTSSEN
That Item No. 8.5 – Gunbower Creek Proposed Waterway Rule Change – Public Consultation be the next Business Report for Decision considered on the Agenda.
CARRIED
8.5 Gunbower Creek Proposed Waterway Rule Changes – Public Consultation Results
Context Council requested that Council officers investigated a waterway rule change on the Gunbower Creek to ban wake‐enhancing vessels or devices. Council completed and submitted to Marine Safety Victoria (MSV) a Notice of Intention to request a Waterway Rule (WM1) on 27 August 2015. Due to additional safety concerns on the waterway, the proposed rule included the following provisions:
1. A Safety height when triggered below reduces the speed limit to 5 knots.
2. Additional requirement to prohibit the use of wake enhancing vessels.
3. Redefining the managed waterway from Cohuna Weir to 700m upstream of Daltons Bridge (asshown on the attached plan).
Maritime Safety Victoria concluded Council was required to conduct public consultation regarding the proposed rule change and advertise the proposed rule change in a state wide publication to gauge the public opinion. Any rule changes of a material nature would require public support.
Council publicly displayed the proposed rule change at the front desk of Cohuna and Kerang offices, Gateway Centre, as well as on the Council website. Director Infrastructure Services, Environment/Traffic Engineer and Team Leader Local Laws attended a public session at the Gateway Centre to answer questions along with Mayor Learmonth.
Gannawarra Shire Council - Ordinary Council Meeting Minutes 20 April 2016
Our Values.... Collaborative, Resourceful, Innovative, Flexible Page 12382 of 12393
Unconfirm
ed
Council received 35 submissions from the public including a petition with 341 signatures by 4pm on 4 March 2016 (Copies distributed to Councillors).
Rule Number For Number Against No Comment
Change to 5 knots when low water level
2 4 29
Banning of Wake Boarding 0 33 2
Banning of Wake Enhancing Vessels 13 16 6
Redefining the managed waterway 0 0 0
The petition was worded as follows and contained 341 signatures. “We object to the Gannawarra Shire’s proposal to ban Wakeboards and Wake enhancing vessels on the Gunbower Creek at Cohuna. The Creek should be available for ALL to use safely”
Council gives direction
Submit WM1 form to MarineSafety Victoria (MSV)
MSV advise if rule is of amaterial nature
Public consultation
Staff evaluate responses andseek direction from Council
Council submit proposedchange to MSV
We are here
Rule change approved Rule change not approved
Rule change gazetted andinfrastructure installed
Gannawarra Shire Council - Ordinary Council Meeting Minutes 20 April 2016
Our Values.... Collaborative, Resourceful, Innovative, Flexible Page 12383 of 12393
Unconfirm
ed
When submitting the final rule change to Maritime Safety Victoria, Council will need to:
• Demonstrate it has taken into account all relevant public comments relating to the rule change(must address the safety issues around the rule change)
• Demonstrate identifiable safety issues in relation to wake‐enhancing vessels
Maritime Safety Victoria will then access the final proposed rule information from the public consultation and how it addresses the key areas of the Marine Safety Act.
MOVED: CR GOULDING SECONDED: CR GIBSON
That Council: 1. Proceed with the proposed waterway rule changes to:
a. Impose a 5 knot speed limit when a safety height is triggered.b. Redefine the managed waterway from Cohuna Weir to 700m upstream of Daltons
Bridge.c. Ban wake enhancing vessels under the following criteria
i. Vessels that are designed to enhance wakeii. Vessels that have ballast tanksiii. Vessels that have adjustable CAV plates or wedgesiv. Vessels that have excessive loading
2. Not proceed with the proposed waterway rule change to:a. Prohibit wakeboarding.
3. Work with North Central Catchment Management Authority, Parks Victoria, DepartmentEnvironment, Land, Water and Planning, Goulburn Murray Water and adjoininglandowners to investigate an ongoing bank stabilisation program.
CARRIED
8.2 Community Grants Program 2015/2016 – Round 2
Context At its Ordinary Meeting held 23 June 2015, Council approved that $110,000 be allocated for Community Grants in the 2015/2016 budget.
Round 1 of 2015/2016 Community Grants Program saw 39 applications received totaling $183,011 in requests for funding. Council approved funding to 15 Community Groups across the Shire with a total of $61,210 of funding expended.
This current round is Round 2 of 2015/2016 Community Grants Program. This round saw 31 applications received ‐ totalling $105,955 in requests for funding. These applications and Council Officers’ proposed recommendations for the award of funding are outlined in Attachment 1 – which, if endorsed, would result in an allocation of $48,785 for this round. Such an award would also fully defray the budgeted amount for the program for this year.
It is considered that the projects recommended for approval have demonstrated compliance with Council’s overall objectives of supporting key community initiatives and will also assist many groups that experience difficulty in competing for grant support from other sources. In this round, the recommendations include a suite of projects which focus on improvements to community facilities and buildings – support for which will encourage greater community usage and secure these important assets into the future.
Gannawarra Shire Council - Ordinary Council Meeting Minutes 20 April 2016
Our Values.... Collaborative, Resourceful, Innovative, Flexible Page 12384 of 12393
Unconfirm
ed
It should be noted that, as the Community Grants Program has developed, the standard of applications for funding has increased markedly. However, in line with established practice and where applicants are unsuccessful or unfamiliar with the grant process, officers will provide assistance to increase their capacity and competitiveness for future submissions.
7.49 pm – Cr Learmonth and Cr Arians left the meeting Cr Goulding took the Chair.
MOVED: CR GIBSON SECONDED: CR DEN HOUTING
That Council:
1. Confirm funding support for the projects numbered 5 and 14 recommended forapproval as per the attachment.
2. Authorise Council Offers to respond to each applicant in writing advising them of theoutcome of their application.
CARRIED
7.52 pm – Cr Learmonth and Cr Arians returned to the meeting Cr Learmonth returned to the Chair.
MOVED: CR DEN HOUTING SECONDED: CR GIBSON
That Council:
1. Confirm funding support for the projects, with the exception of those numbered 5 and14, recommended for approval as per the attachment.
2. Authorise Council Offers to respond to each applicant in writing advising them of theoutcome of their application.
CARRIED
8.3 Audit Committee Report – April 2016
Context In accordance with Section 139 of the Local Government Act 1989, Council has established an Audit Committee as an Advisory Committee of Council. The Audit Committee Charter documents the requirement for the Director Corporate Services to provide a report of each Audit Committee meeting to the next ordinary meeting of the Council.
A meeting of the Audit Committee was held on 5 April 2016, attended by the following members:
8.4.1 Deanne Van der Drift (Chairperson) 8.4.2 Alan Darbyshire (Independent Member) 8.4.3 Luigi Basile (Independent Member)
8.4.4 Cr Keith den Houting
8.4.5 Cr Brian Gibson 8.4.6 Brad Ead, Internal Auditor, AFS and Associates 8.4.7 Brad Bohun, Partner, Crowe Horwath (via phone link up for VAGO Audit Strategy only) 8.4.8 Eric Braslis (Chief Executive Officer)
8.4.9 Tom O’Reilly (Director Corporate Services)
8.4.10 Georgene Bryant (Administration Officer, Corporate Services)
Apologies: Sid Hutchinson (Manager Finance) and Lisa Clue (Manager Governance)
Gannawarra Shire Council - Ordinary Council Meeting Minutes 20 April 2016
Our Values.... Collaborative, Resourceful, Innovative, Flexible Page 12385 of 12393
Unconfirm
ed
The following items were considered by the Committee at the February meeting:
Report Discussion Recommendation/outcome
AFS & Associates Pty Ltd – Internal Audit Service
Aquatic Facilities Operational Review including management responses.
The report and management comments were presented. The report was moved and accepted. The Committee congratulated the Council on the reported “low risk” outcome. An annual end of season report on pools will include all the areas mentioned in the Review.
AFS & Associates Pty Ltd – Internal Audit Service
3 Year Audit Program A planning letter was received for 2016/17 program. Payroll review to be added to Council’s internal audit program for completion in October 2016.
AFS & Associates Pty Ltd – Internal Audit Service
Asset Management and Capital Expenditure
A planning letter was received on 17 March 2016. Audit to commence on 18 April 2016.
Crowe Horwath (VAGO)
Audit Strategy for year ending 30 June 2016
The Audit Strategy 2015/16 was presented and discussed. It is considered that there are no foreseeable issues for 2016 outcomes.
Follow up of Previous Audit Recommendations
The register for previous auditrecommendations was presented to the Committee and discussed.
No items were removed.
Remaining items on the register werereviewed and discussed.
Business continuity plan’s deadlinewas moved from May 2016 to July2016.
Performance Statement Reporting’sdeadline was moved from November 2016 to September 2016.
MOVED: CR AERTSSEN SECONDED: CR DEN HOUTING
That Council:
1. Note the recommendations/outcomes of the Audit Committee meeting held on Tuesday5 April 2016.
CARRIED
Gannawarra Shire Council - Ordinary Council Meeting Minutes 20 April 2016
Our Values.... Collaborative, Resourceful, Innovative, Flexible Page 12386 of 12393
Unconfirm
ed
8.4 Mystic Park Recreation Reserve – Proposed Sale of Land
Context Council has identified a parcel of land, known as the Mystic Park Recreation Reserve being Lot 1, TP409266 (CA Pt 14, Sec 6), Parish of Boga, Wilson Street, Mystic Park, which, in accordance with Sec. 189 of the Local Government Act 1989, is no longer required by Council for the purpose for which it was acquired.
Council advertised its intention to sell the property in the Gannawarra Times and the Swan Hill Guardian on 26 February 2016 and called for submissions under Sec. 223 of the Local Government Act 1989 for a period of 28 days.
At the close of the submission period, Council had received two expressions of interest to purchase the property and has received no objections to the potential sale the property. (Copies of the Expressions of Interest have been previously provided to Council).
The land is zoned “Public Park and Recreation Zone” (PPRZ) and may be required to be re‐ zoned prior to the finalisation of any sale.
The land currently has a Lower Murray Water town water connection for which Council is responsible. This connection would be transferred at the time of sale.
There is a Goulburn Murray Water irrigation allocation of 0.08 Delivery Share attached to the land which will be included with the sale of the land. There are 11 megalitres of High Reliability and 3.8 megalitres of Low Reliability water which will not be included in the Contract of Sale, but will be amalgamated into Council’s overall water entitlement for use at other sites.
MOVED: CR GIBSON SECONDED: CR GANNON
That Council:
1. Authorise the Chief Executive Officer (“the CEO”) to obtain a valuation for the sitedescribed as Lot 1, TP409266 (CA Pt 14, Sec 6), Parish of Boga, 9 Wilson Street,Mystic Park from a qualified Valuer as specified under Section 130A(2) of theValuation of Land Act 1960 to report on the value of the land and buildings.
2. Commence the statutory procedures to sell the land which includes 0.08 Delivery Sharefor water, and buildings, by public tender in accordance with Sec.189 of the LocalGovernment Act 1989.
3. Give public notice under Sections 82A and 223 of the Local Government Act 1989 (“thestatutory advertising”) of the proposed public tender for the sale of the property inthe appropriate newspapers and on Council’s website.
4. Authorise the CEO to enter into a Contract of Sale, on terms satisfactory to the CEO (“theContract of Sale”). The Contract of Sale will include, but not be limited to the following:a. All existing services, covenants, easements and encumbrances (if any) located
on the land are adequately protected and remain in place, except for theallocation of an irrigation water supply.
b. Appropriate rezoning (if necessary) of the land prior to title transfer.
5. Amalgamate the High Reliability and Low Reliability water share with Council’soverall water entitlement.
CARRIED
Gannawarra Shire Council - Ordinary Council Meeting Minutes 20 April 2016
Our Values.... Collaborative, Resourceful, Innovative, Flexible Page 12387 of 12393
Unconfirm
ed
8.6 Fluoridation Advocacy for Cohuna
Context Gannawarra Shire Council is part of the Rural Engaging Communities in Oral Health Research Project (Rural ECOH).
Funded through the National Health and Medical Research Council, this three year partnership study (2014‐ 2016) has brought together community members and health professionals to discuss oral health, explore solutions and plan for future improvements.
The Rural ECOH project involves six communities – three in rural Victoria (Kyabram, Swan Hill and Gannawarra) and three in rural Queensland (Hughenden, Ingham, and Bowen).
The Gannawarra Shire was selected as one of the Victorian communities to be involved due to its hospitalisation rate for oral health conditions of children under 14 years being three times the Victorian average, lack of access to public dental services, and Gannawarra children aged 0‐5 having higher rates of tooth decay compared to the Victorian average.
Poor oral health causes disability, pain and suffering, eating and speech difficulties. Poor oral health is also significantly associated with major chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease and mental health issues.
While oral health disease is almost totally preventable through healthy lifestyle choices the reality is that access to public dental services and affordability of preventative dental care presents an issue for many residents of the Gannawarra Shire.
The Rural ECOH project involved extensive community consultation which resulted in the development of a Gannawarra Oral Health Action Plan. Four priorities were identified in the Action plan:
1. Strengthen oral health systems and support especially across the early years focusing on Maternal andChild Health Key Ages and Stage visits.
2. Professional Development of staff around oral health.3. Screening programs across early year and school settings.4. Investigate advocating for fluoridation of the Cohuna water supply.
There have been a number of key achievements relating to Action Plan items 1‐3 above including:
Oral Health has been included in 2014 and 2015 Gannawarra VicHealth Walk to School program andthe Gannawarra Ride2School program. Toothbrush and toothpaste prize packs have been awarded,oral health messages included in take home packs, and health promotion messages of Drink Well, EatWell, Brush Well included in talks at each primary school along with the interactive sugar display whichformed part of the 2015 Walk to School program at all 11 local primary schools.
New dental service brochures have been finalised and distributed.
Maternal and Child Health Key Ages and Stages visits have been strengthened and reminder stickersdeveloped for the 18 month and 2 year visits.
Professional development training around oral health has been undertaken by Council’s Maternal andChild Health and Community Health teams.
An application to Colgate for 500 toothbrushes and toothpaste to support Council’s Maternal and ChildHealth and immunisation services has recently been successful.
Oral health screening has been conducted at all local public primary schools and pre‐schools by theRoyal Flying Doctor’s Service and Dental Health Services Victoria.
Gannawarra Shire Council - Ordinary Council Meeting Minutes 20 April 2016
Our Values.... Collaborative, Resourceful, Innovative, Flexible Page 12388 of 12393
Unconfirm
ed
The above achievements have complemented other oral health initiatives Council and partnership agencies are involved in including:
The awarding of 5 local pre‐schools under the Dental Health Service’s Victoria Smiles4Miles program in2015 and expanding the program to include playgroups.
The delivery of the Healthy Together Victoria Achievement program for early childhood and caresettings through 5 local pre‐schools and the Gannawarra Children’s Centre with all soon to achieve recognition under the Healthy Eating and Oral Health priority area.
With respect to Action Plan item 4 – Investigate advocating for fluoridation of the Cohuna water supply, fluoridation briefings and information sessions have been provided to Council and the local community by Helen Walsh from the Department of Health and Human Services and Dr. Virginia Dickson Swift from LaTrobe University. Briefings have been provided to the Cohuna Progress Association and a community drop‐in session was held at Cohuna on 4 August 2015 where information was provided about fluoride and questions were answered. A total of 8 community members attended.
Some questions that were asked and answered as part of the drop in session:
What is fluoride? Fluoride is a naturally occurring compound. To fluoridate water, the gas is extracted from fluoride containing rock and then bottled. A fluoride plant is constructed as part of a water supply system and the gas is added to a water supply at a specified level. Fluoride does not change the taste of the water and is a very stable compound (unlike Chlorine for example).
How effective is fluoride? There is strong evidence to support fluoridation as a safe and effective population based intervention for preventing tooth decay. Fluoridation is supported by the World Health Organisation. The Australian National Oral Health Plan supports fluoridation of communities with a population greater than 1000. In Australia the maximum level of fluoride in drinking water permitted is one milligram per litre, as recommended by the World Health Organisation. Any naturally occurring fluoride in the existing water supply is taken into consideration when determining the level of fluoride to be added to a water supply.
Personal choice options for residents? In townships with a fluoridated water supply residents who feel so strongly against fluoridation may opt out of the system at their own cost by installing a reverse osmosis system. This removes most of the fluoride (and other compounds) from the tap water.
Cost and benefit? The cost is fully met by the state government (estimated at around $1.3M). The cost of fluoridation is outweighed by the benefit of reduced treatment costs. This cost/benefit analysis is supported by evidence.
While there are opinions for and against fluoridation, fluoride remains the most effective population wide measure for reducing dental disease. Fluoridation is endorsed through scientific research and review by leading organisations in Australia and internationally by the World Health Organization, Australian Medical Association, National Health and Medical Research Council, American Academy of Paediatrics and the Australian Dental Association.
The National Oral Health Plan 2014 states that ‘communities of 1000 should have access to reticulated fluoridated water supplies’, and that ‘82% of Australians currently have access to fluoridated water’. Kerang’s reticulated water supply has been fluoridated since 2010. 90% of Victoria’s population currently has access to fluoridation. Water fluoridation reduces the socioeconomic inequities of oral health disease and remains the most socially equitable means of achieving community‐wide exposure to the preventative effects of fluoride.
The full cost of fluoridation is met by the Victorian Government with the Department of Health and Human Services liaising with the relevant water authority (in the case of Cohuna, Coliban Water) to have a fluoridation plant installed. There is no cost to Council. While the Victorian State Government continues to support fluoridation of communities there is no current Victorian Government budget allocation for additional communities to receive a fluoridated water supply.
Noting again that there is no current budget allocation, it has been suggested that Council advocate for fluoridation of the Cohuna township water supply by writing a letter to the Minister for Health, the Honourable Jill Hennessy.
Gannawarra Shire Council - Ordinary Council Meeting Minutes 20 April 2016
Our Values.... Collaborative, Resourceful, Innovative, Flexible Page 12389 of 12393
Unconfirm
ed
The Strategic Gannawarra Local Agency Meeting (GLAM) consisting of Chief Executive Officers representing Council, Northern District Community Health, Cohuna District Hospital, Kerang District Health, Victoria Police, Mallee District Aboriginal Service and the Southern Mallee Primary Care Partnership agreed in December 2015 to support a letter of advocacy from Council to the Minister for Health.
MOVED: CR AERTSSEN SECONDED: CR GOULDING
That Council:
1. Send a letter to the Minister for Health, the Hon. Jill Hennessy, Shadow Minister for Healthand the Leader of the Opposition, advocating for fluoridation of the Cohuna township watersupply in order to improve oral health outcomes of the community.
CARRIED
9 Information Reports
Nil
10 Urgent Items
Nil
11 Notices of Motion
Nil
Gannawarra Shire Council - Ordinary Council Meeting Minutes 20 April 2016
Our Values.... Collaborative, Resourceful, Innovative, Flexible Page 12390 of 12393
Unconfirm
ed
12 Delegates Reports
Cr Lorraine Learmonth 17 March Koondrook Wharf Community Announcement 19 March Women on Farms Gathering – Hopetoun 21 March Cohuna Progress Meeting 22 March CEO Meeting
Citizenship Ceremony – Kerang Receive Plaque re Violence against women – Loddon Mallee Women’s Health
23 March Easter Picnic Family Day Care Harmony Day – Cohuna Swearing in of Youth Council
25 March Rotary Art Show 26 March Kerang Races
Quambatook Tractor Pull 28 March Volunteer at Gateway to Gannawarra Visitor Centre 31 March ABC Interview 1 April Regional Police Awards – Swan Hill
Cohuna Bar b que for new arrivals 3 April Legacy Changeover Dinner 4 April Loddon/Campaspe Councils Meeting – Echuca 5 April Guest Speaker Probus Meeting – Kerang 6 April Big Dry Meeting with Community Groups
Leitchville Progress Association meeting 7 April ABC Interview 8 April Koondrook Seniors Guest Speaker
Lunch with RDV – Kerang 11 April Dairy Australia Water meeting – Cohuna 12 April Council Briefing – Kerang 13 April NCCMA tour – Upper end of Gunbower forest 14 April 3SH Interview – Vic WAER Plan forum – Bendigo 15 April Open Mental Health forum – Kerang
CLLM Annual meeting & forum 17 April Boys of War – Tragowel
Volunteer Gateway to Gannawarra Visitor Centre 18 April Cohuna Progress Association meeting 19 April CEO Meeting
Parks Vic Red Gum Management Plan – Kerang 20 April Ordinary Council Meeting ‐ Kerang
Cr Neville Goulding 18 March LMWRR Board meeting ‐ Bendigo
Photo competition – Barham 21 March Cohuna Progress 24 March Met with John Mawson 27 March Volunteer Gateway to Gannawarra Visitor Centre 1 April Cohuna Bar b que for new arrivals 5 April Dairy meeting with presentation by multinational company 6 April GMID Water meeting 8 April LMWRRG waste meeting –Melbourne 12 April Council Briefing – Kerang 13 April Forest trip with NCCMA looking at environmental watering proposal for next year 14 April Water and bio diversity meeting – Bendigo 19 April Discussion with Parks Victoria re Forest management
Gannawarra Shire Council - Ordinary Council Meeting Minutes 20 April 2016
Our Values.... Collaborative, Resourceful, Innovative, Flexible Page 12392 of 12393
Unconfirm
ed
Cr Neil Gannon No written report received
Cr Keith den Houting 25 March Rotary Art Show – Kerang 5 April Audit Committee – Kerang 12 April Council Briefing – Kerang 20 April Ordinary Council meeting – Kerang
Cr Oscar Aertssen 17 March Wetlander Cruise with Museum Victoria staff
Koondrook Wharf Community Announcement 21 March MMLLEN Swan Hill 23 March Youth Council Civic Reception – Kerang 1 April Youth Council planning meeting – Kerang 12 April Council Briefing – Kerang
Koondrook Development Committee meeting Meeting with ratepayer re planning matter
13 April Meeting with ratepayer re planning matter 14 April Family day care meeting Cohuna 18 April MMLLEN AGM Swan Hill 19 April Parks Victoria Park Management Community Forum Kerang 20 April Ordinary Council Meeting – Kerang
Cr Brian Gibson No written report received
Cr Mark Arians 17 March Kerang Progress 21 March Show and Shine Meeting 23 March Kerang Progress 25 March Kerang Rotary Art Show 9 April Cohuna Men’s Breakfast 12 April Council Briefing – Kerang 14 April Planning Permit Meetings
Refugee Support Group 18 April Show and Shine Meeting 20 April Ordinary Council Meeting ‐ Kerang
13 Confidential Items
Nil
Meeting Closed at 8.13 pm
Confirmed this Eighteenth Day of May, 2016
_________________________________________
Cr Lorraine Learmonth ‐ Mayor
Gannawarra Shire Council - Ordinary Council Meeting Minutes 20 April 2016
Our Values.... Collaborative, Resourceful, Innovative, Flexible Page 12393 of 12393
Unconfirm
ed