Clarence Valley Council Annual Report 2022/2023

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Published by Clarence Valley Council 2 Prince Street Grafton Phone 02 6643 0200 council@clarence.nsw.gov.au www.clarence.nsw.gov.au

© 2023 Clarence Valley Council

Acknowledgment

We acknowledge the Bundjalung, Gumbaynggirr and Yaegl people as the Traditional Owners of the land on which we live and work. We honour the First Nations peoples culture and connection to land, sea and community. We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging.

Clarence Valley Council

Clarence Valley Council

This Annual Report can be viewed online at clarence.nsw.gov.au or can be obtained from Council offices in Grafton and Maclean.

Purpose of the Annual Report

Welcome to Clarence Valley Council’s 2022/2023 Annual Report. This report is a snapshot of the Clarence Valley, the Council, our plans for the future and our local community.

This report outlines Clarence Valley Council’s performance against our Community Strategic Plan -The Clarence 2032, provides an insight into the key actions and projects of 2022/2023 for each of the Council’s five strategic themes and presents Clarence Valley Council’s audited financial statements for the year ending 30 June 2023. The Annual Report is Clarence Valley Council’s primary tool for reporting to our community and stakeholders on service delivery and financial performance and is a vital part of our overall governance framework and commitment to transparency and accountability.

In addition to meeting our legislative obligations, the objectives of this report are to detail our specific achievements in relation to our five strategic themes:

Society

Creating a place where people are healthy, safe, connected and in harmony with the natural environment to retain and improve the quality of community life.

Infrastructure

Maintaining our diverse infrastructure base to serve the needs of the Clarence.

Economy

Strengthening and diversifying the region’s economic base in a way that complements the environmental and social values of the Clarence.

Environment

Valuing, respecting and actively participating in the care and management of the Clarence’s natural environment for current and future generations.

Leadership

Setting the overall direction and long-term goals for the Clarence in accordance with community aspirations.

Clarence Valley Council’s strategic direction and day-to-day planning are steered by our Integrated Planning and Reporting Framework. The elements of this framework are reviewed and adopted by the elected Council and then actioned by Council staff.

Regular updates on Council’s progress in delivering the community’s aspirations through the Delivery

Program and Operational Plans are provided through bi-annual progress reports on the Delivery Program and an Annual Report at the end of each financial year. These are available via Council’s website.

Section 428 of the Local Government Act states:

Within 5 months after the end of each year, a council must prepare a report for that year reporting as to its achievements in implementing its delivery program and the effectiveness of the principal activities undertaken in achieving the objectives at which those principal activities are directed.

The report is divided into three key sections:

• Part 1: Summary of performance under each strategic theme

• Part 2: Statutory Information Report

• Part 3: Audited Financial Report

This report provides information to our residents and ratepayers, government and non-government organisations, our partners and local businesses. It also provides staff with information on how Council has performed over the year and how their efforts are contributing to deliver great outcomes for our communities across the Clarence Valley. Despite significant challenges there have been important achievements across our all directorates this past year – further information on these achievements can be found in Part 1 of this year’s Annual Report.

Clarence Valley Council

Clarence Valley Council’s:

Vision

“To make the Clarence Valley a community full of opportunity”

Mission

“To plan and deliver services valued by the community”

Integrated Planning and Reporting

The Integrated Planning and Reporting (IP&R) Framework guides the way local government plans, documents and reports its future strategies. The IP&R Framework begins with the community’s aspirations for a period of at least 10 years, considered by each newly elected council and which is underpinned by a suite of integrated plans that set out a vision and objectives and hones down to specific actions to achieve those aspirations. It involves a reporting structure to communicate progress to council and the community as well as a structured timeline for review to ensure the goals and actions are still relevant.

Infrastructure Society Environment Economy Leadership

Our planning framework

Community Engagement Strategy

The Community Engagement Strategy is based on social justice principles and details how we engage with our community to prepare the Community Strategic Plan.

Community Strategic Plan

‘The Clarence 2032’

The Community Strategic plan is the overarching document for all plans and policies of the Council. It identifies the community’s aspirations and priorities for the future of the local government area. It creates the vision we are working toward.

Delivery Program

The Delivery Program is the key directional document for the term of the elected council. It is developed by a newly elected council and adopted before the end of June in the year following the election. It presents as a statement of commitment to the community by outlining the focus the council intends to contribute toward achieving the long term aspirational goals of the community as identified in the Community Strategic Plan.

Resourcing Strategy

Without sufficient resources - money, people and assets, the objectives of the Operational Plan cannot be achieved. The Resourcing Strategy consists of three components:

Long Term Financial Plan

A ten year financial plan, often presented as more than one scenario that informs decision making and planning.

Workforce Management Strategy

A minimum four year strategy that addresses the human resourcing needs and challenges of the organisation in achieving goals.

Asset Management Strategy

A minimum ten year strategy that is supported by Asset Management Plans that details the management and maintenance strategies for assets within the ownership of Council.

Clarence Valley Council

Operational Plan

Supporting the Delivery Program is an annual Operational Plan prepared by the General Manager and staff. The Operational Plan defines quite specifically how the commitments of the Delivery Program will be achieved by detailing what the organisation will deliver where, how delivery will be resourced, at what cost and who is accountable for action as well as how performance is measured. The Operational Plan is a document of organisational accountability. The Operational Plan is intrinsically linked to staff performance with outcomes reflected in individual workplans.

The Clarence Valley Council’s Operational Plan is prepared by the organisation’s leadership team in consultation with coordinators of teams and staff who delivery services and activities.

The Operational Plan outlines actions to achieve the strategies in the Delivery Program. It also incorporates the Capital Works Program, Revenue Policy and Budget.

Capital Works

Program (CWP)

Capital works are projects that upgrade and renew our infrastructure. They include such things as road improvements, resurfacing, intersection upgrades, shared pathways, drainage improvements, new facilities such as community centre, playgrounds, libraries.

Revenue Policy

As outlined in Section 405 of the Local Government Act 1993, Council presents its Revenue Policy. The Revenue Policy ensures fair and equitable levying of rates and charges in order to provide sufficient funding to carry out services for the benefit of all ratepayers of the Clarence Valley Government Area.

Budget

Council generates income to fund services and assets for the Valley through rates on property, developer contributions, interest on investments, government grants, users charges and business activities.

Clarence Valley Council

Brisbane 300km

Sydney 600km

Maclean

Grafton

Yamba

About the Clarence

Located in the Northern Rivers region in NSW, the Clarence Valley covers an area of 10,441 square kilometres and has three major centres, Grafton, Maclean and Yamba. NSW

Our Population

Total population in 2022: 54,662

Projected population by 2041: 64,121

Our Area

3 towns

60 villages

2,068 kilometres of roads

8 rivers

36 beaches

100 kilometres of coastline

2,262 square kilometres of National Parks, State Forest & Reserves

26,069 dwellings

Our People

49 median age

71.4% residents aged over 18 and eligible to vote

2.3 people per average household ( 26,141 dwellings)

Our Economy

$2.62 billion gross regional product in June 2022, growing 7.8% since the previous year

4,254 local businesses

21,721 local jobs

Source: id profile, 2021 Census, NIEIR

Strategic Theme 1: Society

Council aims to create a place where people are healthy, safe, connected and in harmony with the natural environment to retain and improve the quality of community life

Clarence Valley Council

Council plays a critical role in creating a society that connects people in our region. This includes providing safe and exciting spaces where people want to gather, supporting creative and cultural experiences and ensuring all community members, regardless of background, age or ability, can participate. We celebrate and recognise our local heritage, including the cultural heritage of the Gumbaynggirr, Bundjalung and Yaegl Peoples.

Events

Council hosts and supports local events to help create a proud and inviting community with opportunities for our residents to connect and belong. These events also raise the profile of the Clarence Valley and stimulate the local economy. We aim to create an inclusive community where diversity is respected and residents, regardless of age or ability, have equal access to quality services, events and opportunities.

z Social and economic growth was supported though the ‘Special Events Sponsorship Program’. The program contributed $90,000 to support the delivery of 21 new and existing events in the Clarence Valley including the Jacaranda Festival, the 118th Maclean Highland Gathering, Yamba Hot Rod Run, Groove on the Grass, ValleyFest Country Folk Festival, Carols by Candlelight, Copmanhurst Calling, Ulmarra Picnic in the Park, Clarence Valley Camp Oven and Music Festival, Lower Clarence Dance Eisteddfod and Grafton Aero Club’s Wings and Wheels Open Day.

The Special Events Sponsorship Program contributed approximately $5 million to the local economy.

z Two major Council events for the year were Groove on the Grass and Prince Street Marketta. Groove on the Grass at Market Square in January was a phenomenal success. The family-friendly event, limited to 5000 free tickets, was funded by the NSW Government’s Reconnecting NSW Community Events Program with an aim promote social and economic recovery following the pandemic. Artists Jem Cassar-Daley and Dami Im joined headline act Jessica Mauboy. In May, Council partnered with the Grafton Chamber of Commerce and Grafton Jacaranda Festival Committee to deliver the first Prince Street Marketta, an event to celebrate Grafton’s main street and boost local business as part of our ‘Rediscover Grafton’ project. Hospitality businesses served street food to more than 5000 people with entertainment by a range of local musicians and performers.

PICTURED CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: Prince Street Marketta. Grafton Waterfront Precinct new pathway. Wherrett Park Playspace.

z Council promoted the annual Jacaranda Festival to an even greater extent in 2022 with digital ad campaigns, convenience advertising in airport restrooms, Australian Traveller magazine advertisements as well as local media. Throughout the festival the Council tourism officers conducted 557 surveys and supported over 1,100 visitors who came into the Visitor Information Centre. An impressive 3.9 million impressions on social media was achieved via our collaboration with VisitNSW and Tourism Australia.

z Another successful event that Council proudly promotes each year is the Plunge Arts & Culture Festival. Since the inaugural festival in 2013 more than 1500 events have received free promotion and increased exposure through the festival program.

z The NSW Seniors Festival 2023 was held in February with 16 free and discounted events. The festival provided opportunities for older citizens to try something new and meet people.

Open spaces, public parks, playgrounds and facilities

A safe and active community with accessible infrastructure for residents of all ages and abilities is a priority for Council. We provide recreational facilities, parks and playgrounds so residents can exercise, participate in outdoor activities and connect with others.

z It’s been a busy year consulting with community on several significant open spaces projects. Projects close to completion at the end of 2022/2023 financial year include Corcoran Park, Grafton Waterfront Precinct and Ulmarra Precinct. A trial stage of improvements were also made to Grafton’s Prince Street, making it a more inviting and accessible space for visitors and businesses, and an important stepping-stone in the implementation of Council’s Grafton Precinct Plan.

What we manage

1,119.47ha of parks and open spaces

39 playgrounds

27 sports fields

10 skateparks

49 BBQ facilities

5 swimming pools (1 ocean pool)

1,1716ha of mowing completed

6,996 park bookings

98,818 pool entries

50 public amenities

z Maintenance works on sports grounds and facilities were completed as part of flood recovery works. They included:

• Resurfacing of JJ Lawrence Basketball Court and Grafton Netball Courts.

• New change rooms at Yamba Ngayundi Sports Complex and McKittrick Park.

• New playgrounds at Ulmarra, Wherrett Park Maclean, Lions Park Yamba and Tucabia.

• New grandstand at Hawthorne Park.

z Refurbishment and renewal works on several community halls and buildings was completed, including Ewingar Community Hall, Tullymorgan Reserve, South Grafton New School of Arts, Coaldale Hall, Wooloweyah Hall and Nymboida Hall.

z Council’s Heritage Assistance Grants Program

enabled maintenance and renewal works to be carried out on 18 heritage buildings and facilities at a total cost of $199,578.

z Council successfully obtained funding for several significant community buildings and facilities. Extensive planning was carried out to deliver these important assets to the community. Works have commenced on the Regional Aquatic Centre which is expected to be completed and open to the public for the 2024/2025 summer. Development of the Yamba Community and Maclean Community Precincts are due to begin next financial year.

z Strategic planning activities included progress on the development of the Harwood Riverfront Precinct Plan and the Lawrence Community Economic Plan.

Connecting and celebrating our First Nations peoples

Council supports, encourages and celebrates the rich cultural heritage of the Gumbaynggirr, Bundjalung and Yaegl People by providing opportunities for community participation and building relationships with local Traditional Owners.

z NAIDOC Week was celebrated through a range of events across the Clarence Valley in July. Council provided opportunities to celebrate culture through flag raising ceremonies, community workshops and morning teas. First Nations stories were told during a Storytime program at Clarence Regional Libraries.

z A Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) was developed to formalise Council’s ongoing work in promoting a culturally safe and inclusive

community. A draft plan has been prepared for submission to Reconciliation Australia and is expected to be endorsed in 2023/2024.

z Council held First Nations Community Round Table meetings during February and May in Yamba, Maclean and Grafton to consult with and strengthen relationships with our traditional owners. Cultural Awareness Training was attended by Councillors in March.

Clarence Valley Libraries

Over the years, libraries have become community and social hubs and to support that Clarence Regional Library hosted several programs and activities.

z The Youth Week event, Live ‘n’ Loud, at the Grafton Library was a highlight of the year as well as several other school holiday activities. Other highlights were the new Vintage Film Club, held at Iluka and Grafton each month, and the biennial Mini Writer Festival which provided an opportunity for local writers to engage with and collaborate with well-known authors.

4 libraries

1 mobile library

23,282 members (43% of population)

129,934 visits

1044 programs and events

10,705 program and event attendees

229,218 items loaned

31,751 items reserved

30,525 eBook downloads

11,189 eMagazine downloads

28,747 eAudio downloads

140,826 library website visits

12,369 wifi sessions

6,723 hours of internet sessions

76,989 information requests

PICTURED FROM TOP: Storytime at the Grafton Library. Opening of the South Grafton JJ Lawrence Basketball Court. Bundjalung Cultural Experience Dancers at the Groove on the Grass Festival.

Art and Culture

Council aims to create a community in which cultural assets and public art is valued and plays a role in celebrating local arts as well as bringing innovative opportunities to the Clarence Valley. We supported a range of public art projects through project development, community consultation and grant applications.

z Council won the NSW National Trust Heritage Award for The Building Bridges Emu Projection in the ‘Events, Exhibitions and Tours’ category. The projection was part of Council’s Building Bridges Project, which is funded by the NSW Government’s Stronger Country Communities Fund. It involved projecting artworks by local First Nations artists celebrating the endangered Coastal Emu onto the Sunshine Sugar building in South Grafton throughout the Jacaranda Season. Council worked with local First Nations artists, Sunshine Sugar, Esem Projects, Transport for NSW and Australian Rail Track Corporation to bring the project to fruition.

z Infrastructure improvements to Prince Street Grafton, as part of the Rediscover Grafton project, provided opportunities for local artists and writers to showcase their work. The initiative included a gnome hunt, the Superorganism lighting display, a Grafton Regional Gallery Art Trail, First Nations Story Trail and the The Long Way Home Young Authors Story Trail.

z In commemoration of the 2022 floods, Council delivered a public art project involving more than 20 local artists, commissioned to create artworks that marked the significant impact the flood events had on the Clarence Valley community. The project was made possible through NSW Government grant funding for Northern Rivers councils that were floodaffected. Art panels are on display in Grafton along Prince Street’s revamped streetscape and large-scale murals were created on the Lawrence Water Tower and the Harwood Bridge.

z Another Council public art project, Illuminate, was a feature of the Jacaranda Season for a second year. Lights installed throughout See Park lit up Jacaranda trees at night for the duration of the festival, creating a spectacular display, and a space for events that attracted more visitors to the area.

PICTURED FROM TOP LEFT: Gnome Hunt Party at the Grafton Regional Gallery. Public Art on Harwood Bridge. Superorganism lighting display.

Grafton Regional Gallery

z The Grafton Regional Gallery experienced its biggest year of attendance in its 35year history with 64,561 visitors. More than 9,000 people visited the gallery’s Summer Sensations program featuring the Archibald Prize 2022 Regional Tour. The 2022 Jacaranda Drawing Award (JADA) exceeded expectations, attracting 13,500 visitors. The gallery continued to focus on supporting and promoting the work of local artists with 78 participating in exhibitions throughout the year. Major gallery initiatives included ‘Inland See’ and ‘Figuring Ground’, an exhibition of work by LGBTQI artists focused on promoting diversity and inclusion. A series of residencies supporting exhibition and collection development were hosted, as well as the Arts Northern Rivers Artist Respite Program offering ten residencies to artists affected by the 2022 floods.

Supporting community

Council supports social and economic growth though several sponsorship programs and initiatives to help people and organisations in our community to thrive.

z One of the silver linings of the extended COVID-19 restrictions would have to be the joy of reconnecting. Early in 2022 Council put the call out to community groups to submit their events via a competitive SmartyGrants program. Council received funding from the NSW Government’s Reconnecting Regional NSW for the program. We submitted six eligible applications and all were successful in obtaining funding. The aim of the funding was to bring people together and promote social and economic recovery following the pandemic.

Events included:

• Carols by Candlelight

• Nymboida Music Nights

• Groove on the Grass

Grafton Regional Gallery

64,561 visitors

19 exhibitions

430 public programs and events

6 JADA touring venues

78 local artists engaged, including school exhibitions

1,884 volunteer hours worth $60,288 in labour

13 collection acquisitions (3 donations and 10 purchases) valued at $87,850

• Copmanhurst Calling

• ValleyFest Country Folk Festival

• Ulmarra Picnic in the Park

z The Special Event Sponsorship Program was developed to help eligible events and sports tourism initiatives. A total of 11 events held between April and July received $29,000 in funding under Round Two of the program. This included the Clarence Valley Camp Oven and Music Festival at Nymboida ($10,000), 118th Maclean Highland Gathering ($6,500), Lower Clarence Dance Eisteddfod ($2,500) and Grafton Aero Club’s Wings and Wheels Open Day ($1,500).

z The Get Connected program provided free drop-in sessions twice a week at the Grafton Library to help seniors with their digital literacy skills. In addition, Tech Savvy Seniors sessions were held at Maclean, Yamba and Iluka libraries in February.

z The Community Initiatives Program supported non-for-profit organisations to produce new or continuing projects. More than $60,000 in funding was approved for 39 applications in the first quarter, supporting a range of organisations including the Grafton Community Shed, Maclean Lions Club, Dundurrabin Public School, Chatsworth Hall and Yamba Patchwork and Art Group.

z Council’s Cultural and Sports Trust Fund is a grant-based program developed to help residents achieve their goals on a state and national level at cultural and sporting events. Grafton hockey stars Shanae Crispin and Zayden Third travelled to Darwin to represent NSW in the 2023 Australian National Under-15 Hockey Championships. The pair received $300 each towards travel, accommodation, and other associated costs.

Youth engagement, support, and events

Council proudly supports cultural and inclusive programs for young people in our community. We aim to create a community supportive of its young people and their safety, growth and development and that provides opportunities for their participation and feedback on decisions that affect them.

z Council held community engagement Youth Week forums during April in Grafton and Maclean, providing more than 70 young people with an opportunity to express their ideas and views on matters that affect them. Many participants provided their contact details to be involved in future engagement opportunities and more indepth conversations during the first quarter of 2023/2024.

z Council held a number of Youth Week events in April, attracting more than 1400 young people, giving them opportunities to express their ideas and views, act on issues that affect their lives and have fun. A standout event Live ‘n’ Loud had its most successful year to date with more than 300 people attending the concert at Grafton Library, which featured performances from an array of the region’s up and coming musical talent.

z Council’s ‘Out of the Box’ program provided afternoon activities at purpose built youth boxes located throughout the Clarence Valley, catering for young people aged between 12 and 25. The program is designed to provide a safe and respectful environment for young people to hang out, as well access information about available services.

Clarence Valley Council

PICTURE BELOW: The Maclean Highland Gathering.

PICTURED CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Young local talent at the Live ‘n’ Loud festival, a Youth Week event held at the Grafton Library. Simtables for Community Empowerment project as part of Councils disaster resilience and recovery program. The Building Bridges Emu Projection, an award winning public art project.

Housing

Council is committed to facilitating an appropriate mix of affordable housing for the community that meets the various stages of life, enhances living standards and improves education and employment opportunities.

z Council is developing a Local Housing Strategy and Affordable Housing Policy that will guide where, when and how housing should be delivered across the Clarence Valley to meet the future needs of our changing and growing community. It will inform decision making for land use planning, development applications, investment, advocacy, and resource allocation in the immediate, short and long term. Council successfully secured a $150,000 grant from the NSW State Government’s Regional Housing Strategic Planning Fund to develop the strategy. Community Consultation is planned in late 2023 and the final strategy and affordable housing policy will be reported to Council in the first quarter of 2024.

Crime prevention

Council aims to create and maintain a safe community that encourages healthy lifestyles. We support various organisations and chambers to identify and seek funding for crime prevention and safety technology, activities and programs.

z Council developed The Crime Prevention Strategy 2023-2026 in partnership with police from the Coffs/Clarence Police District. Analysis of crime data and statistics identified priority crimes affecting our area and actions and strategies were developed to address those offenses.

z We supported events for The Clarence Valley Domestic and Family Violence Committee as part of the ‘16 Days of Activism’ global campaign to end violence against women. A community awareness breakfast was held at the Grafton Library with around 130 community members attending including the General Manager and executive members, senior police, and local MPs.

z Council supported the Clarence Valley Local Drug Action Team (LDAT) to address local drug and alcohol related issues in the Clarence Valley. The LDAT identified issues involving young people who were engaging in risky behaviour and making unsafe choices whilst under the influence of drugs or alcohol. An interactive education package around safety and decision making, mythbusting and the importance of looking out for each other, was developed and delivered to Year 9 students at Maclean High School. The session received positive feedback from its recipients and as a result will continue to be delivered as part of Council’s ‘One Stop Shop’, wellbeing program.

Following an increase in property theft during the summer holiday period Council implemented the ‘Look Lock Leave’ tourism safety awareness campaign. Caravan parks and open spaces managed by Council were focus areas, educating people to lock away their bikes, scooters, eskies and fishing equipment when visiting.

Disaster resilience and recovery

Council is committed to create a resilient community that is prepared for natural disaster, guided by the Disaster Resilience Framework.

z Council worked with the Rural Fire Service to release mapping of bush fire prone areas to better inform decision-making for future developments and address potential risks. It will help guide choices around building materials, locations, buffer zones, and onsite water storage. Following the devastating 2019/2020 bushfires that destroyed 168 local homes and damaged many more properties, including in some areas previously thought to be safe, of bushfire prone land to better inform decision-making for new development.

z Another milestone includes the completion of a six kilometre mains water pipeline to Grafton Regional Airport, extending from the Clarence Correctional Centre, which will improve bushfire emergency response time. Completion of the pipeline supports the combined Fire Control Centre/Emergency Operations Centre, funded following recommendations from the 2020 Bushfire enquiry.

z Council supported the launch of the Resilient Clarence Interactive Digital Map, showcasing the personal accounts of survival, strength and resilience from the devastating 2019/2020 bushfires. The map can be accessed at the Grafton Library and online.

z In collaboration with the Rural Fire Service, Council supported the Simtables for Community Empowerment project, which featured digital three-dimensional modelling, used to help local residents prepare for disasters such as bushfires. Face-to-face community sessions have been held to help participants create effective bushfire survival plans.

z We contributed to reducing bushfire hazard and related management actions in accordance with the Clarence Valley Bush Fire Risk Management Plan, including completing Asset Protection Zone maintenance works around Dundurrabin Community Centre as well as at the coastal villages of Iluka, Angourie, Minnie Water and Wooli. Works in accordance with Village Protection Strategies at Woombah, Brooms Head and Sandon were managed by Council using private contractors. Council continues to play a proactive role on the Clarence Valley Bushfire Risk Management Committee with the overall objective of reducing risk from bushfire events.

z Funding was obtained for drainage improvements at four outdoor sporting facilities. Around $1.2 million in works has been established. Works will commence soon at Hawthorne Rodeo and Rushforth parks in South Grafton, Barnier Park at Junction Hill, and the ruby league field at the Yamba Sports Complex. The improvements will reduce the impact of prolonged wet weather on usage of the facilities.

z Clarence Valley Emergency Management Plan (EMPLAN) was updated and endorsed by both the Local and Regional Emergency Management Committees in July. A complete audit of all evacuation centres, involving a review of hazards and risks, and the vulnerable facilities list was conducted. As part of the EMPLAN and in collaboration with Iluka Community Organisation Preparing for Emergencies (ICOPE), we developed the Community Managed Evacuation Centre (CMEC) action plan, the first if its kind in the Clarence Valley.

Strategic Theme 2: Infrastructure

Council is committed to maintaining our diverse infrastructure base to serve the needs of the Clarence

Clarence Valley Council

PICTURED: Grafton Waterfront Precinct.

Clarence Valley Council has a robust infrastructure planning and development framework as outlined in the Operational Plan 2022/2023. Strategic planning activities for the year have proven effective in providing strong guidance for achieving quality and sustainable design in new developments and infrastructure.

Strategic Planning

In 2022/2023 Council made further improvements to our infrastructure planning and development framework. Some highlights from the year included:

Roads Policy

z An updated Roads Policy was adopted at the Ordinary Council Meeting in June 2023. The 2019 version of the policy was reviewed before going on public exhibition for six weeks in April. The primary purpose of the policy is to outline the level of service and response to the full scope of road related issues. It is based on a risk management approach to provide a systematic method of identification, evaluation and prioritisation of maintenance works on the roads and bridge network.

Active Transport Strategy (Pedestrian Access and Mobility Plan and Bicycle Plan)

z An Active Transport Strategy is being developed to encourage more people to choose walking and cycling and for journeys to be safer, easier and accessible for all. The strategy will address pedestrian access and mobility needs in relation to Council’s Pedestrian Access and Mobility Plan and Bike Plan. Engagement and community consultation took place in 2022/2023 with the plan to go out for public exhibition in the 2023/2024 year.

Flood Risk Management Plans

z Consultant engaged to prepare flood study as first stage of consolidating plans. Draft flood study submitted in December 2022. Further comments provided to consultant and updated draft flood study reported to the Floodplain Risk Management Committee in May. Project will extend into 2023/2024.

Open Space and Recreational Management Strategy

z Staff consultation is proceeding regarding the review of the Open Spaces Strategic Plan and Sports Facilities subplans to align with the recent service review. Draft Public Halls Strategy complete and under final review before being reported to Council.

Facilities Management Plan

z Facilities service provisions such as cleaning are currently under review and will inform preparation of a Facilities Management Plan. The property team are currently reviewing the annual lease and licence program with a view to improving usage of facilities under these arrangements.

Infrastructure

Integrated Water Cycle Management Strategy

z Council has engaged with consultants on the Integrated Water Cycle Management strategy which aims to maintain and improve water quality and security in the Clarence Valley.

Review CBD amenity and establish Service Level Agreements

z Commencement of the key actions from the Grafton Precinct Plan, including the trial to Prince Street funded by the Streets and Shared Spaces program. The Rediscover Grafton Project has been successfully completed. An audit and recommended next steps will be reported to Council during 2023.

Managing the Clarence Valley’s 2,475km road network

15 new bridges opened to traffic

35km road resealing

20km unsealed road received gravel re-sheeting

Clarence Valley Council

PICTURED FROM TOP: Brooms Head Road. Upgraded school zone pedestrian crossing. Newly constructed bridge at Coutts Crossing.

Civil Services

The 2022/2023 financial year for the Civil Services Section was predominantly focused on restoring flood damaged assets back to their pre-condition function. The majority of works were largely completed during the Immediate Recovery Works Phase of the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements which concluded on 31 January 2023. Over 155 road infrastructure assets were restored during this period at a claimed value of just over $15M.

In addition to disaster recovery works, Civil Services delivered and completed the following programs of work:

The School Zone Infrastructure Program

z Council to delivered 16 separate school zone upgrade projects through out the Clarence Valley. These works are creating safer pedestrian connections for children, their parents and carers, and the school community, and include improved signage and line-markings, new and upgraded footpaths, upgraded zebra and raised pedestrian crossings (wombat crossings), pedestrian fencing, kerb ramps, guttering and lighting. These road improvements can help save lives by reducing car speeds within school zones and giving pedestrians safe route options when walking to and from school.

Clarence Way, Keybarbin

z Clarence Way at Keybarbin received a $5 million-plus upgrade with improvements to road alignment, formation and sealing 5km of previously unsealed road.

Bridges

z By the end of 2022/2023, 20 of the 31 bridges funded by the NSW Government’s Fixing Country Bridges program Round 1 were opened to traffic, and construction underway

on another five. The remainder of the Round 1 bridges will be completed in 2023/2024. Fixing Country Bridges Round 2 funding has been secured for 5 more bridge replacements including Bluff Bridge on Orara Way. Site investigations and concept design development for Bluff Bridge is advanced and will progress to a design and construct tender for construction in 2023/2024.

Improving crash-risk locations

z Black Spot Funding, which targets road locations where crashes are occurring or are at risk of occurring was awarded to Council and enabled the delivery of a 2km road upgrade to a previously dangerous section of road on Brooms Head Road.

River Street Maclean

z Repair program and block grant funding were used to upgrade 1.2km of River Street, Maclean creating a more resilient pavement with the utilisation of foamed bitumen.

Townsend Industrial estate

z The Townsend Industrial estate upgrade project was completed and funded through the heavy vehicle safety and productivity grant provided to fund infrastructure projects that improve the productivity and safety outcomes of heavy vehicle operations across Australia.

Infrastructure

Yamba Bypass

z Investigations have commenced and include a preliminary environmental investigation to scope biodiversity, cultural and environmental values of the corridor. A consultant was engaged in Q2 following issue of brief/request for quotations. A report of the findings has been prepared and will be submitted to Council for consideration in the first half of 2023/2024.

Pringles Way

z Shoulder widening and safety improvements were completed and funded through the Federal Blackspot funding program. The intersection of Ryries Road and Pringles Way was upgraded to provide wider shoulders and safer environment for vehicles turning into Ryries Road and through traffic.

Grafton CBD – Streets As Shared Spaces

z A trial commenced along Prince St with the inclusion of nose in parking and widened footpaths, along with planter boxes to aid in the separation of parking and path, along with adding to the streetscape.

Grafton CBD – Raised pedestrian crossings

z The two crossings along Prince St in the CBD were upgraded to raised crossings (wombat crossing) to provide a safer environment for pedestrians and improved accessibility.

Glenreagh town entry treatments

z Town entry treatments were installed on the northern and southern entrance to Glenreagh community. A variable messaging sign was also installed to aid in reducing driver speed and awareness.

PICTURED FROM TOP: Pringles Way. Glenreagh town entry. Grafton CBD. Maclean River Street.

Open space and recreational management projects

Grafton Waterfront Precinct

z The $6.5 million Grafton Waterfront Precinct project was completed, utilising the riverbank location and transforming it into a familyfriendly hub for residents and visitors.

The $6.5 million project has enhanced the riverfront parklands on the north bank of the Clarence River with paved plaza areas and new community facilities, a 700m long, 3m wide shared user path, extensive landscaping, lighting, increased opportunities for river-based activities and improved access via adjoining streets.

The precinct is a flagship project within the Clarence River Way Masterplan, which aims to reinvent the Clarence as “one of the nation’s great river experiences” and redefine Grafton as a river city.

Ulmarra Precinct

z Upgrade works were completed, providing renewed access to the river and upgraded park and reserve infrastructure on the riverbank.

Improved road design, footpaths, landscaping, extensive drainage works and parkland facilities were constructed to enhance pedestrian experience and encourage visitors to the village as well as improve resilience to high rainfall events.

Bailey Park was redeveloped to include new barbecue and picnic facilities. It features a new playground and play equipment as well as a water play area.

PICTURED: Grafton Waterfront Precinct.

Infrastructure

Hawthorne Park

z The most used arena at Hawthorne Park in South Grafton received a $240,000 upgrade, including new LED lights, aluminium grandstands, and a new spectator mound. Work commenced in this financial year and will continue into 2023/2024.

Corcoran Park, Grafton

z Initial works on a $2.2 million revamp of facilities and accessways in Corcoran Park Grafton have commenced.

The project, funded through the Department of Regional NSW Community Local Infrastructure Recovery Package, will include: design and construction of internal accessways, new flood-resilient parking, design, construction of footpath along riverbank, new and refurbished shelters, improved accessibility, new barbecues and park furniture and widening of boat ramp.

An all-accessible pontoon for full access to the river has been completed, as well as a new dog-park facility, the first of its kind for the local area, which has generated a high level of community interest and requests for similar facilities to be constructed in other towns and villages.

The revamp follows flooding and extensive damage of the popular riverside reserve in 2022. The work is in line with the objectives of the Corcoran Park Masterplan. The contracted project is planned to be undertaken in stages to minimise disruption to park users where possible.

Sporting facility restoration program

z Flood-damaged recreational assets throughout the Clarence Valley now have a new lease on life. Ten tennis court complexes and eight synthetic cricket pitches were returned to pristine condition. The program included:

• Tennis courts at Braunstone, Brushgrove, Coutts Crossing, Iluka, Minnie Water, Ulmarra, Waterview Heights, Flinders Park Yamba, Lions Park Yamba, Ngayundi Yamba Sports Centre.

• Cricket pitches at Brushgrove, Ilarwill, JJ Lawrence Field South Grafton, Lawrence, Wherrett Park Maclean and Ngayundi Yamba Sports Centre.

z In addition, reserve road repairs were carried out at Ngayundi Yamba Sports Complex and Pippi Beach car park. A new changeroom was also completed at the Ngayundi Sports Complex.

z Grafton Netball Courts Upgrade completed. The project included the design and construction of eight outdoor hard courts and lighting, with provisions for up to five additional courts.

Playground Renewal Program

z Playground Renewal Program projects were completed or are progressing, with each site at varying stages of construction. Locations that are part of the program include Lions Park Yamba, Wherrett Park Maclean, Bailey Park Ulmarra, Tucabia and Waterview Heights.

Additional completed and ongoing projects include:

z Outdoor furniture replacement projects were completed as required.

z Working with groups to upgrade Junction Hill and Braylesford Park for improved facilities.

PICTURED CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: William Ager Park viewing platform. Shared user path on Big River Way. Wherrett Park playground. Junction Hill tennis court opening. Bailey Park at Ulmarra.

Footpaths and shared user pathways

z An extensive number of footpaths and shared user paths were completed as part of the ongoing Pedestrian Access and Mobility Plan and Bike Plan. Pedestrian and cycle links from Grafton to Maclean, Maclean to Yamba and from Woombah to Woody Head are being considered. While walking trails are being considered from The Glen to Maclean. Completed works include:

• River Street, Yamba between Queen Street and Beach Street and between Wooli Street and Harbour Street.

• Hoof Street, Grafton connects pedestrians and cyclists from Queen Street to the newly upgraded Jacaranda Park.

• The final section of a 1200m long shared user path on Big River Way, South Grafton from McAuley Catholic College to Bunnings.

• Orion Drive, Yamba, between Palm Lake Resort and Yamba Road.

• Cameron Street, Maclean between the M1 Interchange and Jubilee Street.

William Agar Park

z Construction of a new accessible walkway connecting William Ager Park to Pippi Beach Reserve, Yamba was completed. Works include 450 square metre boardwalk and viewing platforms and 125 square metres of concrete path. The upgrades improve pedestrian access and coastal viewing opportunities and an inclusive, safer and more comfortable walking experience.

Internal digital management system

z Progress was made on Council’s new digital management system, CiAnywhere, with the data-base being uploaded to the cloud, enabling better project delivery outcomes. The management system is already improving outcomes, including completion of 10 bridges in 12 months instead of the planned six.

Water and sewer

z A survey has been completed with Ulmarra village residents in relation to a sewerage feasibility study and a consultant has been engaged to review the opportunity and the cost as per Council resolution. The outcome of this will be reported in Council in 2023/2024.

z The rollout of ClearSCADA, a high-tech computer monitoring system for sewage treatment plants and pump stations is being progressively completed. The system enables data and analysis to be accessed off-site in real time. The technology increases efficiency by removing the need to be on site to gather data, and optimises response times to any issues identified.

z A Sewer Relining Program was established after Council conducted a comprehensive CCTV inspection of the Clarence Valley’s sewer network and identifying the areas that needed urgent repairs. Council acted quickly to secure a $1.5M budget and rectified the issues.

z Upgrade done on Y1 Sewerage pump Station in Yamba, creating extra capacity and removing several work health and safety issues.

z New pumps were installed at Wherrett Park in Maclean and Bacon Street in Grafton to reduce ponding during high rainfall events. The increased pumping capacity at Wherrett Park improves flood resilience for the multi-use recreational facility which caters for football, cricket, netball, children’s playgrounds, a skate park and community fitness equipment.

z Further upgrades to drinking water treatment facilities have been completed at the Rushforth Road Water Treatment Plant, securing certainty of clean water supply. A 4,500 square metre high-density polyethylene liner has been installed on the recently constructed $800,000 nine megalitre clarifying lagoon to prevent sedimentation run-off and make the structure easier to clean.

z Roll out of a new water meter reading platform was introduced to enable extra data gathering.

What we manage

103 sewage pump stations

183km of transfer and trunk water mains

1,052km of reticulation

129km of rising sewer mains

288km of gravity trunk mains and reticulation (sewer)

3,059ML of sewage treated

310ML of recycled water reused

13,115ML of water extracted from Nymboida

0ML of water pumped from Shannon Creek Dam

3,347ML of water supplied to Coffs Harbour

5,208ML of water consumed by Clarence Valley

179 of new water connections (ML: Megalitres)

PICTURED: Water play area at Bailey Park, Ulmarra.

Strategic Theme 3: Economy

Council is committed to strengthen and diversify the region’s economic base in a way that complements the environmental and social values of the Clarence Valley

Clarence Valley Council

PICTURED: Prince Street Marketta.

$2.62 billion gross regional product in June 2022, growing 7.8% since the previous year

Council has a strategic and collaborative approach to economic development. Council has done significant work in 2022/2023 to build our economic capacity and continue to enable the development of local businesses, tourism, industry growth.

Strategic Planning

z Strategic planning activities focused on progressing a Local Growth Management Strategy, which is a key action from Council’s Local Strategic Planning Statement 2020 and Delivery Program 2022-2025. The Local Growth Management Strategy comprises of four key sub-strategies which include the Employment Land Strategy, Rural Lands Strategy and Green Infrastructure Strategy which were completed during 2022 and 2023, and the draft Local Housing Strategy which is underway. Overall, this strategic planning approach will inform decision making for land use planning, development applications, investment, advocacy, future project prioritisation and resource allocation for the next 20 years.

z Another focus for Council this year was the continued delivery of the Hinterland Cluster Development Tourism program. The program is in-line with our 2016 Tourism Strategy which aims to disperse coastal visitors to explore our inland areas.

z Delivering on the objectives in the Urban Tree Policy, Council continued the Urban Tree Planting Program, with 305 tree planted throughout the valley, including 36 new Jacaranda trees in Grafton.

z Council endorsed a submission to the draft North Coast Regional Plan in August 2022 to reinstate Grafton as a regional city. The submission was forwarded to the Department of Planning and Environment. Despite Council’s efforts, the final North Coast Regional Plan, released in December 2022, retained Grafton and Ballina as strategic centres and Tweed Heads, Lismore, Coffs Harbour and Port Macquarie the regional cities.

z The Lawrence Community Economic Development Plan is under development as part of the program, and community engagement drop-in sessions have been held in Lawrence.

z The Clarence Riverway Master Plan II provides an up-to-date strategic action plan to guide tourism policy and investment in the region. A revised plan was adopted by Council in August 2021 and has been used to generate funding and guide strategic development initiatives along the Clarence River and in its towns and villages.

Development

Development and construction activity was consistent, with overall approval numbers generally stabilising to pre-covid levels. Overall estimated capital investment value remained above average.

z Council’s corporate systems and development and planning departments, made improvements to the public DA database, called DA Track It. The application on Council’s website enables the public to access more detailed information on development applications.

z Development related legal costs were low, with one matter successfully resolved in the Land and Environment Court.

797 development applications determined

482 construction certificates issued

185 new lots released

290 final occupation certificates issued

$247,806,510 total estimated cost of development applications determined

Supporting local business and industry engagement

Council supports the sustainable growth of local industries and provides support for community and business led innovation. We aim to create an affordable and attractive environment for local businesses to flourish and enhance the diverse and vibrant Clarence Valley community.

z Council continues to engage with business chambers, stakeholders and community groups to support economic development and collaboration. The Economic Development and Tourism Advisory Committee was established and includes a diverse group of community members. The committee provides advice and guidance on economic development and tourism and the implementation of relevant plans and strategies.

z The Load Local Love campaign continued for a second year, supporting and promoting local market opportunities that benefit small business and the agricultural sector.

z Local farmers and community markets continued to be promoted on social media, the website and through brochures.

Clarence Valley Council

Employment

Council is committed to attracting new investment to the Clarence Valley and creating opportunities for employment growth. We aim to achieve diverse employment and education opportunities that allow young people and families to stay in the area.

z The Employment Land Strategy, adopted by Council in June 2022, provides an up-to-date assessment of our employment generating areas. The strategy provides short, medium and long term actions to support local business, grow the economy and achieve Council’s vision for the Clarence Valley to be a community of opportunity, aligning with our Community Strategic Plan and the Clarence Valley Regional Economic Development Strategy.

z The unemployment rate is an important indicator of the economic success of an area. A low unemployment rate can indicate an affluent area with a high rate of access to jobs. The latest available data is from the March 2023 quarter and shows the unemployment rate in Clarence Valley Council area was 4.6%.

Largest industry (by employment):

Household Services

In 2022 the sector accounted for 40.5% of employment in the Clarence Valley, increasing by 36.5% in 10 years.

Clarence Valley Council

Tourism

The Clarence Valley offers breathtaking natural attractions and is a popular destination for local, national, and international visitors. They make a significant contribution to employment and the ongoing prosperity of the Clarence Valley. Council recognises this essential contribution to the local economy and has delivered on objectives to promote growth in the Clarence Valley.

z Council promotes our region through our tourism brand, My Clarence Valley. The brand shares spectacular imagery of the Clarence Valley to international audiences on Instagram and Facebook, and communicates directly with new and returning visitors eager to experience what the Clarence Valley has to offer. This financial year the brand reached 50,000 social media followers online and significantly boosted tourism in the valley.

z Council collaborated with popular television show Fishing Australia to promote the Clarence River to more than a million people around the nation and beyond. Filming for two episodes of the show was facilitated and supported in line with the Hinterland Cluster Development Tourism Program and objectives of the Clarence River Way Masterplan II. The plan aims to establish the river as the primary driver of destination development, from the coast to the upper reaches.

My Clarence Valley

35,000+ facebook followers

15,000+ Instagram followers

z Clarence Valley’s coastal region attracts many visitors each year and is a major asset to our local economy. Our hinterland region also offers opportunities for tourism and economic growth so Council has promoted it to a greater extent, in-line with the Hinterland Cluster Development Tourism Program. Council increased the promotion of one major natural attraction, the Clarence Canoe & Kayak Trail. The trail provides access to the three spectacular river systems in the Nymbodia, Mann and Clarence rivers. There has been an increase in visitors and interest following important search engine optimization (SEO) updates to our website, resulting in more page views, and more requests for brochures. The destination was featured in the Australian Traveler magazine’s list of 100 emerging destinations and experiences, a credit to the work of Council’s tourism team.

1,100 posts

10M users reached

Grafton Regional Saleyards

z Grafton Regional Saleyards received a $1.2 million upgrade. Funded by the Department of Industry, Science, Energy and Resources are being delivered to the Grafton Regional Saleyards. The upgrades were made to improve operator safety, animal welfare and efficiency of pre-sale cattle processing. Upgrades to facility security were also completed, including the installation of a CCTV security system. This infrastructure is key in the ongoing security of the facility and protection of the asset and livestock.

34,434 head sold $40,282,216.26

total value of head sold (ex-GST)

Holiday Parks

Brooms Head Holiday Park

8,325 check-ins

54.08% average occupancy $2,009,828.67

annual income

Calypso Yamba Holiday Park 11552 check-ins

65.92% average occupancy $3,028,796.83 annual income

Iluka Riverside Holiday Park

4,567 check-ins

73.11% average occupancy $1,656,394.70 annual income

Minnie Water Holiday Park

2,005 check-ins

48.89% average occupancy 651,935.88

annual income

Wooli Holiday Park

1,119 check-ins

76.84% average occupancy $369,698.91 annual income

Clarence Valley Council

PICTURED CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Holidaying at Calypso Yamba Holiday Park. Tourists visiting Iluka. Grafton Prince Street Marketta.

Events

Council supports events to increase economic activity in the region to ensure it is a vibrant and attractive place for people to live and work and visit.

z There has been an increase in events, with the sector returning to pre-covid levels of attendance. Council engaged with State Government, Regional Development Australia, Destination NSW, Destination North Coast and the wider tourism and hospitality sector to successfully promote events to the widest possible audience outside of the Clarence Valley.

z In May 2023, Council partnered with the Grafton Chamber of Commerce and Grafton Jacaranda Festival Committee to deliver Prince Street Marketta, an event to celebrate Grafton’s main street as part of the Rediscover Grafton project. This event saw local hospitality businesses serve street food to over 5000 people who were entertained by a range of local musicians and performers, celebrating our local businesses.

z Council continued it’s support for a number of existing and new events in the Clarence Valley such as Jacaranda Festival, Maclean Highland Gathering, Yamba Hot Rod Run, Groove on the Grass, ValleyFest Country Folk Festival, Carols by Candlelight, Copmanhurst Calling and Ulmarra Picnic in the Park.

35,000 approximate number of people attending the 2022 Jacaranda Festival

z Council continued partnering with local event organisers to deliver exciting, vibrant and appealing events in the Clarence Valley through Council’s Special Event Sponsorship program. The Special Events Sponsorship program contributed $90,000 to support the delivery of 21 new and existing events in the Clarence Valley including the Jacaranda Festival, the 118th Maclean Highland Gathering, Yamba Hot Rod Run, Groove on the Grass, ValleyFest Country Folk Festival, Carols by Candlelight, Copmanhurst Calling, Ulmarra Picnic in the Park, Clarence Valley Camp Oven and Music Festival, Lower Clarence Dance Eisteddfod and Grafton Aero Club’s Wings and Wheels Open Day.

z In 2022, 578 surveys on the Jacaranda Festival were filled out by visitors at the Visitor Information Centre at Grafton Regional Gallery. Most were on behalf of a group of two or more people.

70% rated the festival 10 out of 10 for the question: Would you recommend the festival to a friend?

48% stayed more than one night, with many staying a week or more

42% stayed in a hotel or motel

65% were aged 55-74

Clarence Valley Council

Strategic Theme 4: Environment

Aspiration: For Council and the community to value, respect and actively participate in the care and management of the Clarence’s natural environment for current and future generations

PICTURED: Lake Cakora at Brooms Head.

Surrounded by rich and diverse natural environment

Clarence Valley Council is committed to ensuring it’s protection now and into the future through sustainable initiatives and environmental improvements.

With natural disasters becoming more frequent and intense, more people and assets are being exposed and are vulnerable to these disasters. We need to be a forward-thinking community and plan to live sustainably. Clarence Valley’s natural environment features extensive river networks and catchments, floodplains and wetlands, vast beaches and coastline, national parks and diverse natural habitats, scenic mountain ranges, rural hinterland and productive agricultural land.

Green Infrastructure Strategy

Council developed a Green Infrastructure Strategy, which focuses on environmental and open space areas in our towns and villages. The strategy plays a key role in supporting the priorities in the Community Strategic Plan

– The Clarence 2032. In line with Council’s principles for valuing, respecting and actively participating in the care and management of the Clarence Valley’s natural environment for current and future generations.

z Clarence Valley’s natural assets provide a wealth of ecological, cultural and well-being benefits that are crucial to our identity and future. They are a major drawcard for people to live, work and visit the area. Looking after our natural areas and managing natural hazards are essential for sustainable prosperity. While the Green Infrastructure Strategy is a new strategy for Council, valuing and planning for sustainable environmental outcomes for our community is already part of our planning practices.

The Clarence Valley already consists of a large network of green infrastructure which Council has significant experience in managing through

existing planning and maintenance practices.

Implementation of the Green Infrastructure Strategy will enhance the awareness and role of green infrastructure provision, and provide policy direction to help update planning controls (like the Local Environment Plan or Development Control Plans) as well as decision making about resourcing, asset management, capital projects and other activities of Council. The Strategy has identified six priority areas for green infrastructure: biodiversity sensitive urban design; street tree canopy cover; parks and open space; connected places and communities; sustainable waterways; and, improved governance.

Clarence Valley Council

Rural Lands Strategy

Council adopted the Rural Lands Strategy in June 2022. It provides a framework for managing growth, change and development of rural land in the Clarence Valley to the year 2041 - a 20-year timeframe.

z The strategy seeks to address and pre-empt a range of issues including land-use conflict and sustainability while incorporating social, cultural, economic and environmental values. The study area of this strategy encompasses Clarence Valley’s ‘rural lands’, meaning all land that is currently zoned under the Clarence Valley Local Environmental Plan 2011 as follows:

• RU1 Primary Production

• RU2 Rural Landscape

• RU3 Forestry

• C2 Environmental Conservation

• C3 Environmental Management

These areas comprise 75% of all land in the Clarence Valley, being approximately 69% rural zones and a further 6% conservation zones. The extent of rural lands within a single local government area is relatively unique on the east coast of NSW. The agriculture, forestry and fishing sectors have been a foundation of growth of the Clarence Valley ever since the area was first settled in the late 1800’s. The combined agriculture, forestry and fishing sector had an output value of $430 million in 2020/2021, growing substantially over an extended period. Equally important is the protection of key biodiversity assets and landscapes of Clarence Valley’s rural lands. Striking a balance between agriculture and other rural land uses is a key theme within this strategy. Emerging opportunities in tourism and recreation, as well as the management of conservation lands within the rural landscape, are also key considerations.

Internal Environmental Audit

z Council completed an Internal Environmental Audit for Council’s on-ground and infrastructure activities. Audit recommendations will inform the delivery of project management, staff education and adjustments to internal procedures to ensure improved environmental management of Council works. A draft Environmental Management Policy was prepared consistent with audit recommendations and an Environmental Management System will be developed over the next two years.

Biodiversity and Natural Environment

Conserving and enhancing the Clarence Valley’s natural environments, ecosystems and native flora and fauna is a priority for Council.

Waterways

z In July 2022, Council updated the Sustainable Water Controls in the Clarence Valley Development Control Plans. These controls ensure new developments achieve best practice for managing water quality, meaning better outcomes for our waterways.

Caring for our Coastal Emus Project

z The Caring for our Coastal Emus Project is a collaboration between local landholders, Council, the NSW Department of Planning and Environment, and the Coastal Emu Alliance, to protect Coastal Emus and their habitat. The project won the Natural Environment Protection and Enhancement Award at the 2022 Local Government NSW Excellence in the Environment Awards. With an estimated population of less than 50 birds remaining, a major focus of the project was reducing the

risk of vehicle strike along the seven kilometre section of Brooms Head Road at Taloumbi, where endangered Coastal Emus commonly cross. Council installed two vehicle activated signs and ‘Emu Zone’ road marking patches to signify the identified crossing zone. This was achieved in collaboration with the Lions Club of Clarence - Environmental, NSW DPE Saving Our Species Program and Transport for NSW.

Koala Conservation

z As part of a $190 million state-wide initiative that aims to double koala populations in NSW by 2050 the NSW Department of Planning and Environment (NSW DPE) commenced a project to generate up-to-date mapping of koala populations and habitat. Lawrence, Waterview Heights, South Grafton and Coutts Crossing were identified as priority areas for this study as they also contain future development potential. The results of further detailed surveys

PICTURED: Clarence Gorge, Clarence Valley hinterland.

in 2023/2024 will inform future planning, management and protection to increase koala numbers.

z In an effort to reduce the number of koalas being injured and killed by vehicle strike, Council will install several electronic signs in key locations to alert motorists of koalas being active in those areas. These trailer-based and portable variable message signs will be used in different locations and will enable for a variety of messages at relevant locations to alert the travelling public to be mindful of wildlife crossing roads.

Maclean Flying Fox Camp Management Plan

z Incursion of flying foxes into urban areas continued to be managed in accordance with the Maclean Flying Fox Camp Management Plan. The establishment of a temporary flying

fox camp in Grafton was managed through assistance to reduce private property damage and included street tree management works in close liaison with residents and Essential Energy. Flying foxes have not returned to this temporary Grafton camp since late-March 2023.

Weed control activities

z Council aims to reduce the volume of chemicals used for weed control activities by five per cent each year and to use safer alternative control methods. In 2022/2023 the use of chemicals was reduced by >9% compared to the previous two financial years. Specialised GPS mapping and spraying drones were successfully trialled during the summer to control weeds on Susan Island. This program will continue in 2023/2024.

PICTURED: Council is working to increase koala populations. Council carried out environmentally friendly weed control.

Coastal Management

z Council is working to secure the future of our region’s estuaries and coastline. The Clarence Estuary is one of the largest in Australia. Coastal Management Programs are essential legislative documents that detail how the coastline and estuaries will be managed and what activities the State Government will fund. Examples of common projects in the Clarence Valley include beach nourishment and revetment structures. Council has two Coastal Management Programs which will help identify and evaluate management options.

Clarence Valley Coastline Coastal Management Programs

• Scoping study completed.

• Consultants engaged to develop coastal hazard lines for future weather events under higher sea levels. This will help identify risks and guide future management decisions.

• The finalised hazard assessment (Stage 2) is still being prepared and will be before the Council at the end of 2023. The outcome of this will guide step 3 and 4.

Clarence River Estuary Coastal Management Program

• Completed scoping study adopted by Council in September (Stage 1).

• Funding for Stages 2, 3 and 4 is being sought to commence in 2023.

50

Clarence Valley Council

Industry, Development and Liveable Areas

Council aims to provide opportunities for equal access to enjoy the outdoors and incorporate accessible infrastructure in the design of open spaces.

Disability Inclusion Action Plan

z Council has been developing a new Disability Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP), co-designing it with community, which addresses opportunities for equal access for all residents to enjoy the outdoors. The plan outlines the practical steps put in place by an organisation to break down barriers for people with disability and promote access to services, information, employment, and the rights of people with disability. There are four key focus areas in the DIAP:

• To foster positive community attitudes and behaviours.

• Increase the liveability of our communities.

• Improve access to meaningful employment for people with disability.

• Improve access to services, systems and processes.

Achievements in 2022/2023 are highlighted in the Statutory Reporting section of this document.

Development

z Council has improved methodology for DArelated ecological assessments. Council’s website has been updated to include current information for lodging development applications and construction certificates using the NSW Planning Portal. A new development application matrix has been created to require ecological assessments consistently be prepared and provided when a proposed development has an ecological impact.

Open Spaces

z 305 trees planted throughout the valley, including 36 new Jacaranda trees in Grafton, as part of the Urban Tree Planting Program, delivering on the objectives in the Urban Tree Policy.

Grafton Regional Saleyards

z Council supports sustainable agricultural through the operations, maintenance and administration of the Grafton Regional Saleyards.

Tourism

z Tourism is an essential contribution to the local economy and it is important to consider any associated environmental and social issues to ensure visitors have a low impact on the environment. Council’s My Clarence Valley brand promotes the Clarence Valley’s natural assets from the coast to the hinterland, including national park camping grounds, walking tracks, the Yuraygir Coastal Walk and the Clarence Canoe and Kayak Trail.

Waste

Council continued to maintain the Grafton Regional Landfill facility, two transfer and recycling centres and six waste disposal and recycling facilities.

z A new $5.5 million landfill cell and leachate pond at Grafton Regional Landfill and Resource Recovery Centre was installed and expands the facility’s waste capacity by 220,000 cubic metres for the next five years.

z A new 10-year contact was awarded to JR Richards, beginning July 1 2023, to collect waste and process recyclables and organics. This also marked the start of a more flexible and efficient bulky waste collection service which had been months in the planning.

z The Grafton Regional Landfill has the greatest spare capacity of any landfill south of the Tweed and is the envy of most Northern Rivers councils.

9,124 tonnes of kerbside waste to landfill in 2022/2023.

5,546 tonnes of kerbside recycling collected in 2022/2023.

8,108 tonnes of kerbside food and organics collected in 2022/2023.

60% Domestic Waste diversion rate from landfill

Clarence Valley Council

Clean drinking water

z Several installations to mitigate future risk of clean water shortages in our water supply system were completed in February.

A high-density polyethylene liner was installed on the recently constructed clarifying lagoon at the Rushforth Road Water Treatment Plant to prevent sedimentation run-off and make the structure easier to clean. Provision of clean drinking water to residents was strained by multiple factors which led to a Boil Water Alert for Coutts Crossing and Level 4 Water Restrictions for the Clarence Valley in January.

These factors included high turbidity levels in Shannon Creek Dam since the March 2022 rainfall event (influenced by 2019 bushfires), rainfall events impacting turbidity in Nymboida River, return flow from Coffs Harbour interrupted by a switchboard fire at Karangi Dam, and very high water consumption during hot weather.

The installations minimise the risk of similar restrictions being imposed in the future. Council continues to carry out 24/7 monitoring of the water supply scheme.

PICTURED ON PREVIOUS PAGE FROM TOP: Council’s solar upgrade and battery storage project at the Rushforth Road Works Depot in South Grafton. Clarifying lagoon at the Rushforth Road Water Treatment Plant. Upgrades at the Grafton Regional Landfill.

Energy Emissions

Clarence Valley Council aims to have greenhouse gas emissions to be at least 40% lower than 2017 levels before 2030, with long term goals to reach net zero emissions by 2050. Meanwhile 50% of Council’s electricity needs will be from renewable energy before 2030, with the long term goal to be 100%.

z Council has improved its capacity to respond to natural disasters while taking a major step towards meeting its renewable energy targets. Council’s $900,000 solar upgrade and battery storage project located at the Rushforth Road Works Depot in South Grafton has been specifically designed to improve capacity to respond to natural disasters.

z Planning to significantly reduce landfill carbon emissions by enhancing capture and flaring of landfill (methane) gas has progressed.

z The potential for renewable electricity generation using landfill gas at the Grafton Regional Landfill. Additional solar investment progressed in 2022/2023 with more developments in this space proposed for 2023/2024.

z LED lighting has been introduced at outdoor parks and facilities across the Clarence Valley including Hawthorne Park, Clarence Valley BMX Club and McKittrick Park, reducing emissions by approximately 40 percent with estimated cost savings of $357,000 per year. Solar-powered LED lights were also installed in Ford Park, Yamba.

Action on Climate Change

Council is committed to leadership on climate change through education and action.

z Progress is being made on the solar farm and landfill gas electricity generation projects at the Grafton Regional Landfill –Smart Energy Park.

z Council recruited a new Environmental Officer (Climate Change). Our new team member has commenced delivering action to implement the actions of the Council’s Community Energy and Emissions Reduction Strategy.

z The Climate Change Advisory Committee continued to consider a range of matters throughout the year. The purpose of this committee is to advise and make recommendations to Council on specific initiatives that Council and/or the community may undertake in response to climate change, and educational and other strategies that Council may implement to encourage the Clarence Valley community in its response to climate change.

z Preliminary scoping has commenced for the preparation of a Climate Adaptation Strategy in 2023/2024.

Regulatory controls for a safe and sustainable environment

Council’s Environment and Regulatory Services Directorate maintained regulation of companion animals, public health (food and skin penetration premises), public parking, development applications and development-related matters, environmental pollution, on-site waste water systems, cemeteries and priority weeds throughout 2022/2023.

z Preliminary scoping has commenced for the preparation of an Environmental Auditing and Compliance Strategy and an Animal Control and Animal Shelter Strategy. These Strategies are due to be prepared in 2023/2024. Council submitted the following motions to the 2022 Local Government NSW Conference and all were supported.

• Motion 57 Clarence Valley CouncilIncrease maximum penalties for water offences.

• Motion 66 Clarence Valley Council

- Issuing of fines for environmental damage, Roads Act.

• Motion 95 Clarence Valley Council

– Issuing of fines for environmental damage.

Strategic Theme 5: Leadership

Council is committed to set the overall direction and long term goals for the Clarence Valley in accordance with community aspirations.

Clarence Valley Council provides an important leadership role in our community and endeavours to be a strong, inclusive, and dynamic Council that delivers the best outcomes for our community via responsible decision-making and advocacy.

Through effective community engagement and customer service, Council can provide a strong local democracy with an actively engaged community, effective partnerships and deliver services to meet residents’ needs. By focusing on responsible economic management, sustainability, social equity, and effective governance, Council is able to plan for the future by delivering on current projects and services.

Customer Satisfaction

In August 2022, Taverner Research Group completed the biennial Customer Satisfaction Survey. The responses improve important services and facilities.

Services that are of high importance and low satisfaction:

• Maintenance of unsealed roads

• Maintenance of sealed roads

• Maintenance of bridges

• Protection of the natural environment and biodiversity

• Footpaths and cycleways

• Flood plain and coastline management

• Maintenance of public toilets

• Economic development

Services that are of high importance and high satisfaction:

• Sewerage

• Waste and recycling

• Water supply

• Sporting facilities

• Parks, reserves and playgrounds

• Cleanliness of streets

Actions we delivered to improve the Clarence Valley road network, improving the customer satisfaction on services that are of high importance:

• Reviewed the Roads Policy – including scheduling and maintenance.

• Increased the budget to road maintenance.

• Secured additional contractors to deliver an increased maintenance program.

• A service review on local roads was delivered and is ongoing.

• Planned road projects in the capital works program.

• Pothole repair grant awarded for just under $850,000 from the State Government.

Clarence Valley Council

Customer Service

New Call Centre

A new phone system for the Customer Contact Centre commenced in August 2022. This service is allowing critical messages to be prioritised in real time such as a road closure or a water main break. It also assists customers with options for direct enquiries, and estimated wait times until calls are answered.

Figures:

54,545 phone calls to customer services

18,468 receipts issued

11,214 customer requests received

1,210 live chat enquiries

2,204 149 certificates issued

1,183 603 certificates issued

25,027 emails received 70,000 water notices sent 100,000 rates notices sent

9,000 water reminders sent

16,000 rates reminders sent 29.83% receiving eNotices (3.23% higher than the State average of 26.6%)

PICTURED: Council’s Tourism team carried out community engagement at the 2022 Jacaranda Festival, carrying out 578 surveys.

Communications

The communications team produced:

4 editions of Clarence Magazine

72 media releases

51 editions on the weekly Noticeboard newsletter

1,111 Social media posts

Leadership

Community Engagement

Community engagement allows Council to make informed and sustainable decisions. It involves the community in decision making and enables Council to strengthen relationships with residents, organisations and stake holders.

z The Community Engagement Strategy guides Council’s consultation with the community to ensure our local community can participate in the decisions that affect their lives and their environment. Councillors and Council staff meet with community members to discuss priorities and concerns as well as projects and initiatives of Council to support positive community outcomes.

The Leadership Team held in-person engagement sessions with community in these locations in 2022/2023 :

• Malabugilmah & Baryulgil

• Copmanhurst

• Brooms Head

• Ewingar

• Harwood

• Maclean

• Nymboida

• South Grafton

• Coutts Crossing

• Ashby

• Minnie Water

z A highlight for the year was the collaborative community engagement program Council delivered to consult with community on two strategic documents – the Active Transport Strategy and the Disability Inclusion Action Plan.

Engaging with community on multiple projects at once had several successful outcomes, including: stakeholders being involved and informed decision making in various projects at once; feedback was used to inform both projects; reduced the load on community to attend multiple engagement sessions; community champions were identified and invited back for further consultation throughout the process on both projects.

For example, a community member who attended a drop-in session to discuss the Disability Inclusion Access Plan later took consultants working on the Active Transport Strategy on a tour of Maclean to point out access issues and lack of crossing points in the village. This feedback informed both strategies.

z The Councillors’ Listening Tour commenced in the second part of 2022/2023. Locations visited included:

• Nymboida, Hernani & Dundurrabin

• Glenreagh & Kungala

• Coutts Crossing & Brunstone

• Iluka, Woombah & Chatsworth

• Ashby & Tullymorgan

• Minnie Water

Integrated Policy & Reporting

z Annual Report – due annually by end of November of the next year. 2021/2022 Annual Report was submitted. 2022/2023 Annual Report will be endorsed and on the website before 30 November 2023

z All Integrated Policy & Reporting (IP&R) documents used in 2022/2023 were placed on public exhibition and adopted by Council prior to this year commencing. The 2023/2024 required documents were adopted by Council after being placed on public submissions in June 2023.

Governance

z A Governance Framework was developed and is on Council’s website.

Policy Framework

Community input to decision making through submissions and deputations:

11 Ordinary Council Meetings

3 Extraordinary Council Meetings

302 matters considered

28 deputations

11 presentations

z Council’s Policy Framework was updated in 2022/2023, as well as a number of policies being reviewed, updated, out for community feedback via public submission, and adopted by Council. Council’s policies can be found here: www.clarence.nsw.gov.au/Council/ Governance/Policies. These policies include, but are not limited to:

• Complaints Management Policy

• Fraud and Corruption Policy

• Councillor Induction and Professional Development Policy

• Child Protection Policy

• Managing Unreasonable Conduct by Complainants Policy

• Internal Report and Public Interest Disclosure Policy

• Event Sponsorship Policy

• Sports Tourism Program Policy

• Enterprise Risk Management Policy

Community engagement for the Active Transport Strategy and the Disability Inclusion Action Plan. Pictured is a pop-up stall at the Yamba Farmers Market.

Corporate systems upgrade

z Corporate Systems are continuously updated to ensure the security of our databases and systems. Some key achievements include:

• Continued transition of our Corporate System Platform to cloud-based technology to enable further accessibility, efficiencies and automation has been scoped and technical configuration currently underway with software provider.

• Council has met the NSW Government’s DA Planning Portal requirements, including implementing a software project that better integrates the Planning Portal with Council’s corporate systems.

• Implementation of an end-to-end project management software solution, enhancing visibility in how we manage projects from design through to delivery, is underway with key user training and testing scheduled for March 2023, and full implementation in Q1 2023/2024 with cloud migration.

• Cyber Security continues to be a focus for Council with continual updates and reviews occurring to ensure best practice system security processes are applied and our systems are protected.

• Corporate system reports and dashboards are continually being designed, enhanced, and written as further system upgrades are completed ensuring access and transparency across data that can inform decision making processes. Some dashboards created to date include asset defect completion reporting, plant utilisation analytics, Operational Plan Action status reporting, and correspondence KPI reporting.

Annual Financial Statements

z Natural disasters (floods) impacted Council’s ability to access and account for impaired assets and delayed completion of the Annual Financial Statements. Council was granted an extension to submit the statements, and these were completed and submitted in March 2023. The annual statements are placed on Council’s website, once adopted by Council.

Reviewing services and service levels

The 2022/2023 service review program included the following services:

• Information & Technology

• Customer Service & Records

• Tourism

• Public Libraries

• Museums

• Local Roads

• Stormwater

• Parks and Reserves

• Sporting and Aquatic Facilities

• Quarries

• Floodplain and Estuary Management

• Natural Resource Management

• Cemeteries

z This is a new program for Council and outlined in the IP&R guidelines. Due to the nature of the reviews, they will be finalised in 2023/2024.

Audit Risk Improvement Committee (ARIC)

The ARIC provides information to Council for the purpose of improving the Council’s performance of its functions. The Committee aims to review and provide advice on Council’s operations, such as:

• Compliance

• Risk Management

• Fraud Control

• Financial Management

• Governance

z In 2022/2023 the committee met four times and a first-year status report was completed and tabled at the July 2023 Council meeting and is on Council’s website. Council completes a three-year internal audit program. The first year of this program was conducted in 2022/2023. Highlights included:

• Environmental and WH&S Management internal audits and actions were continued to be worked on.

• HR/Payroll Health Check by the Internal Auditors was completed with actions being worked on.

• Other internal reviews conducted included: Legislative Compliance Process; Policy Management Process; State Archives Process; and, Fraud and Corruption controls.

• 100% of audit recommendations were accepted.

• 100% of auditees believed performance audits helped improve the performance of audited activities.

• 75% of audits completed by agreed due date.

Statutory Annual Report

Anti-Slavery Statements

No issues have been raised by the Anti-Slavery Commissioner during the 2022/2023 financial year.

Council has utilised contracts prepared by the NSW State Government, Local Government Procurement, and Procurement Australia with advanced modern anti-slavery mechanisms in their tendering and contract management system.

Environmental upgrade agreements

No environmental upgrade agreements were entered into in 2022/2023.

Rates & Charges

The amount of rates and charges written off in the 2022/2023 financial year were as follows:

* Eligible pensioners who have been issued with a pension card by Centrelink or the Department of Veterans’ Affairs. This amount does not include the 55% DLG subsidy.

Activities funded by a Special Rate Variation (SRV)

2020/2021 saw the completion of the 2018/2019 Section 508A SRV application of 8% for three years. The culminated increase of 25.97% is permanently built into our rate base, meaning the standard rate peg from 2021/2022 now applies. For the next six years (2022/2023 to 2027/2028), the estimated yield from the now built in SRV component of our rate base will be restricted and then subsequently used to improve infrastructure as per the SRV requirements. The council is obligated to report on the expenditure associated with the SRV component of our rate base until 2027/2028 in the annual report. The SRV yield in 2022/2023 is $5.561M.

Below is a list of projects we have been able to commence and achieve due to these funds.

Projects or activities funded from the variation

Local Road Renewals program

Gap Seal Program

Shoulder Widening Program

Unsealed Road Gravel Resheet Program

Culvert and Drainage Renewal Program

William Agar Park Pathway

Floodgate Program

Stormwater Pit Lids

Wherrett Park

Maclean Cultural and Community Precinct

Outcomes achieved as a result of the project or activities

This program is utilised to support the overall asset management of our sealed road network and has been used in conjunction with other funding streams to maximise the restoration of sealed roads which has resulted in a significant reduction in the overall defect backlog providing safer transport infrastructure to the community.

The gap seal program is designed to target short segments of unsealed roads between 2 sections of an otherwise fully sealed road. These unsealed segments maintain a high cost/km to maintain and through the investment of sealing these segments a reduction in ongoing maintenance expenditure is realised. This year a segment on 4 Mile Lane was upgraded and sealed.

This program is targeted at high priority roads where the current road width does not meet the requirements or standards for the present traffic volumes. This year a section of Brooms Head Road was widened and sealed to provide a much safer route for the community.

Through unsealed road trials Council has developed an unsealed resheet material specification that is unique to this council. This program enables Council to resurface sections of unsealed road where ongoing maintenance requirements exist. Through this program much greater intervals in time are realised before maintenance intervention is required. This provides improved service levels and travel conditions at a greater period of time for the community.

This program is used to upgrade or restore dilapidated stormwater assets. It is often used in conjunction with the above programs to restore the drainage prior to undertaking road renewals which provides greater resilience and overall project benefits to our transport network.

An off road pathway was constructed to provide greater connectivity and remove pedestrians from the roadway.

This program is used to upgrade or restore dilapidated floodgates throughout the catchment. Floodgates improve downstream water quality and prevent inundation of low-lying land by high tides or flood events.

This program is used to replace outdated lids with grated lid access improved.

The upgrade to Wherrett Park included variety of play equipment and features. This upgrade has been completed with accessibility and community at the forefront ensuring it can be enjoyed by all.

This new community precinct will provide a new 300-seat auditorium and multiple community spaces. The facility will serve community needs day-to-day and also provide a community meeting place during natural disasters.

Councillors’ Training and Ongoing Professional Development

Councillors elected on 21 December 2021 participated in the following induction training courses and professional development activities during 2022/2023:

Conference attendance as per Council resolution

Overseas visits by Councillors and Officers

Councillors and Council officers did not undertake any overseas visits during 2022/2023.

Payment of expenses of facilities to councillors

Total cost during the year of the payment of expenses of, and the provision of facilities to councillors in relation to their civic functions (this amount must equal the reported amount in the financial statements).

Council maintains three policies relevant for the payment of and the provision of facilities to councillors:

•

•

•

Annual fees were paid to the Mayor and Councillors as required by the Local Government Act and in accordance with the determination of the Local Government Remuneration Tribunal.

In 2022/2023 the total amount of money expended on mayoral and councillors’ fees were as follows:

Payment of expenses of facilities to councillors

A breakdown of the payment of these fees on a per Councillor basis is provided in the following schedule:

Councillor/Mayoral Allowance Breakdown

* May include costs of travel to conferences and seminars using own motor vehicle.

Greg Clancy

Steve Pickering

Bill Day

Jeff Smith

Peter Johnstone

Contracts Awarded by Council

Contracts awarded by Council during the year exceeding $250,000 (not including employment contracts) are as follows:

Summary Amounts Incurred by Council in Relation to Legal Proceedings:

There is one outstanding case of legal proceedings taken against Council. Council is insured for $50,000 excess for this matter; the invoice received to date is $35624.60.

Work Carried Out On Private Land

Council did not carry out works on private land in the 2022/2023 year.

Total Amount Contributed or Otherwise Granted to Financially Assist Others.

Section 356 of the Act to community organisations, including schools, totalling $78,645. In addition, it approved grants totalling $2,400 from the Clarence Valley Sports and Cultural Trust Fund to assist elite young sportspersons. Council gave a further $376,040 in financial assistance to various organisations to assist with the running of festivals, exhibitions and celebration events staged within the Council area.

External Bodies Exercising Functions

Delegated by Council:

North West Weight of Loads Group (Newlog) — Inspection of motor vehicles and the policing of overloading on Council roads.

North East Waste researching waste management issues and investigating opportunities for regional cooperation in the Northern Rivers area.

Other organisations performing services in the Clarence Valley Council area but without any delegations from Council:

Clarence Regional Library provides library services for libraries in the Clarence Valley and Bellingen Council areas. The Regional Library is part of Clarence Valley Council, which employs the Regional Library staff and provides these services to the Bellingen Shire Council under delegations it has received from Bellingen Council.

Entities in which Council had a Controlling Interest

Council did not hold a controlling interest in any corporation, partnerships, trusts, joint ventures, syndicates, or other bodies in 2022/2023.

Entities in which Council Participated

Council did not participate in any corporation, partnerships, trusts, joint ventures, syndicates, or other bodies in 2022/2023.

Activities Undertaken to Implement Our EEO Management Plan.

Clarence Valley Council demonstrates its commitment to the principles of Equal Employment Opportunity through the continued operations under Council’s EEO and Anti-discrimination Policy was reviewed to ensure demonstration of the Council’s commitment to ensuring the absence of discrimination and to promote equal employment opportunity for EEO target groups.

Council has achieved the following to ensure equal employment opportunity:

z Continued implementation of the My Employee Journey Framework, incorporating ongoing review of policies and procedures to ensure a holistic view of the journey of all employees, and that all human resource processes are robust and transparent and in line with the legislation. This framework provides a commitment to equal opportunity employment.

z Continued implementation of the Local Government Capability Framework, which involves updating all position descriptions. This process will ensure position descriptions are up-to-date and remove any artificial barriers.

z Position advertisements include a standard EEO statement and are written in plain English, free from bias. Council aims to continually review the EEO statement to ensure inclusivity.

z There are 16 positions on Council’s organisation structure (including two trainee positions) designated as First Nations People identified positions. In addition to those identified positions, Council has engaged several employees from First Nations backgrounds through the open recruitment process. A total of 29 employees identify as First Nations. This equates to approximately 6% of Council’s workforce, an increase of 1% from the 2021/2022 period.

z Council’s Workforce Management Strategy 2021-2025 (adopted June 2022) addresses workforce challenges faced by Clarence Valley Council. In particular, issues associated with creating a diverse workforce and responding to an ageing workforce is discussed. Council’s workforce is comprised of 66.64% male and 33.36% female employees. The Leadership Team is comprised of 71.43% male and 28.57% female. The Strategy identifies the challenges moving forward and the areas forecast to have an impact on the workforce over the next four years. In an effort to increase access from a mixture of candidates, Council’s online recruitment process allows for a diverse range of applicants from across the globe to apply for positions with Council. Our Workforce Management Strategy ensures robust strategies continue to be put in place to support employment equity and diversity principles.

z All new Council staff participate in Code of Conduct training as part of their induction to the organisation. Continued face to face training for all staff is scheduled for the 2023/2024 financial year.

The total remuneration comprised in the remuneration package of the General Manager during the year was as follows:

Remuneration Package of The General Manager Remuneration Packages of Senior Staff

z Clarence Valley Council Senior staff members are the:

z Director (Works and Civil)

z Director (Corporate and Community)

z Director (Environment and Planning)

Annual Reporting of Labour Statistics

The Local Government (General) Regulation 2021 requires Statement of total number of persons who performed paid work on Wednesday 23 November 2022, including, in separate statements, total number of:

Stormwater Management Services

Council did not levy for stormwater management services in 2022/2023.

Coastal Protection Services

Council did not levy for coastal protection services in 2022/2023.

Companion Animals Act 1998 and Companion Animals Regulation 2008

Statement of of the council’s activities during the year in relation to enforcing, and ensuring compliance with, the provisions of the Companion Animals Act 1988 (CA Act) and the Companion Animal Regulation 2018.

Companion animals taken in by the pound:

Lodgement of Pound data collection returns with the Division of Local Government – 16.2(a) Guidelines

Pound data is collated monthly and a return is lodged annually with the Division of Local Government.

Lodgement of data relating to dog attacks with the Division of Local Government – 16(2) Guidelines

Council’s Rangers attended 86 dog attacks in 2022/2023

Companion animal community education programs carried out - 16.2(d) Guidelines

A social media presence and animal foster network is in place to improve community awareness and promote responsible pet ownership. These support the pound operations and the Companion Animals Act.

Strategies Council has in place to promote and assist the de-sexing of dogs and cats - 16.2(d) Guidelines

Council’s policy on the sale of animals is that they must be desexed before sale. This contributes to a reduction in the number of kittens and puppies brought to the pound as abandoned. Council continues to hold reduced fee microchipping days to help members of the public get their animals identified and returned home.

Strategies in place for complying with the requirement under s 64 of the CA Act to seek alternatives to euthanasia for unclaimed animals – 16.2(c) Guidelines

Animal control staff work with over 50 animal rescue organisations (Doggie Moggie Rescue, Dogs for Jobs, etc.) throughout the area and interstate, forging strong partnerships to provide rescue pathways for unwanted animals. Much of this work is facilitated by Rural Pound Aid.

Off leash areas provided in the council area - 6.2(f) Guidelines

In accordance with the Companion Animals Act 1998 and the Local Government Act 1993, dogs are allowed off leash in 18 parks, reserves and beaches throughout Clarence Valley. Along with this a new specialised dog park has been developed at Corcoran Park, Grafton.

The new park includes:

z Gravel road and concrete parking bays

z Double gate access

z Separate quiet and active dog areas

z Natural and built shade structures

z Digging pit

z Natural play area with logs, rocks and hardy plants

z Connection pathways

z Water bubblers with a dog bowl

z Bins and dog bag dispensers

z Dog agility equipment

z A combination of granitic sand and grass surfaces

A full list of off-leash areas can be found on Council’s website www.clarence.nsw.gov.au

Capital Works Projects

In 2010 the Office of Local Government issued guidelines that apply to capital projects for infrastructure facilities, including renovations and extensions that are expected to cost in excess of 10% of Council’s annual ordinary rate revenue or $1 million, whichever is the greater (GST exclusive). In addition to the minimum requirements for a capital expenditure review, a Council is also required to complete additional requirements in cases where a project’s cost is forecast to exceed $10 million (GST exclusive).

The guidelines do not apply to:

z Capital expenditure on land purchases, land remediation, water supply networks, sewerage networks, stormwater drainage, domestic waste management facilities, roads, footpaths, bridges;

z Projects where funding has been approved under the Public Reserves Management Fund Act 1987;

z Projects that are classified as public-private partnerships; and

z Project designs and feasibility studies that do not commit council to the project (the costs of such studies are to be included if Council subsequently proceeds with the project).

During 2022/2023, four capital projects were above the threshold identified in the Capital Expenditure Guidelines. Ordinary Rates Yield per Statements (Extract below) - $37,811M – therefore 10% = $3.781M.

Carers Recognition Act

Clarence Valley Council is no longer considered a ‘human services agency’ under the Carers Recognition Act 2010.

Clarence Valley Council

Disability Inclusion Action Plan

This was a transition year for Council’s Disability Inclusion Action Plan. 71 actions were delivered from the Disability Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP) 2021-2022 and consultation began for the new DIAP 2023 – 2026.

Key achievements include:

z Monthly meetings of the Clarence Valley Access Committee held to provide advice to Council on access and inclusion matters/ issues.

z Key information about access and inclusion is included in marketing and promotional material for events, festivals, and activities.

z Programs promoting and supporting the inclusion of people with disability were delivered by council’s Youth Officer, Clarence Valley libraries and Grafton Regional Gallery including The Vintage Film Club, Home Library Service, Live n Loud, Colour Run, Old Masters, Sprung!! Integrated Dance Theatre.

z Access at a Glance inspections delivered at five public Council buildings.

z Upgraded accessible facilities including improved access to amenities delivered at Townsend Park, Glenreagh, Wooli Hall, Corcoran Park.

z Adult change facility included in approved plans for Yamba Community Precinct.

z Additional accessible parking spaces delivered at Grafton Base Hospital, Maclean and Ulmarra.

z Internal accessible ramp onto stage incorporated into Maclean Community Precinct plans.

z A review of cleaning schedule of accessible public toilets included in draft Public Toilet Strategy.

z Over 4km of accessible pathways upgraded or completed across the region.

z Hawthorne Rodeo Park Masterplan includes accessible parking, toilets and seating.

z Corcoran Park Pontoon project includes an accessible pathway linking the carpark to the new pontoon.

z Where necessary, workplace assessments are undertaken to ensure the workplace is accessible to meet the requirements of staff members with disability.

z Council has provided and promoted new accessible technologies for customers to communicate with Council including Web Self Service and web chat.

z Inclusive consultation for the new DIAP 2023 – 2026 was delivered over a six-month period to internal and external stakeholders.

Planning Agreements

Contribution

Contribution of 6.7% of full cost

Executed and paid for receipt no. 896354 on 28/06/2023

The total value of all contributions and levies received during 2022/2023 was $6.759M and the total value expended was $1.492M.

Recovery and Threat Abatement Plans

Compliance with the Fisheries Management Act 2014

The Regional State of the Environment 2016 Report (SoE) provides information on how Council is responding to actions with the following plans:

z Removal of Large Woody Debris Threat Abatement Plan

z Black Rockcod Recovery Plan

z Eastern Freshwater Cod Recovery Plan

z Oxleyan Pygmy Perch Recovery Plan

Inspections of Private Swimming Pools

Government Information Public Access (GIPA)

Under Section 125(1) of the Act, each agency must, within four months after the end of each reporting year, prepare an annual report on the agency’s obligations under this Act for submission to the Minister responsible for the agency. A copy of the report is to be provided to the Information Commissioner.

Under paragraph 7 of the Government Information (Public Access) Regulation 2009 the Annual Report must include:

a. details of the review carried out by the agency under section 7 (3) of the Act during the reporting year and the details of any information made publicly available by the agency as a result of the review, Section 7 (3), provides that, an agency must, at intervals of not more than 12 months, review its program for the release of government information under this section to identify the kinds of government information held by the agency that should in the public interest be made publicly available and that can be made publicly available without imposing unreasonable additional costs on the agency.

b. the total number of access applications received by the agency during the reporting year (including withdrawn applications but not including invalid applications)

c. The total number of access applications received by the agency during the reporting year that the agency refused, either wholly or partly, because the application was for the disclosure of information referred to in Schedule 1 to the Act (Information for which there is conclusive presumption of overriding public interest against disclosure).

Note: Table D in Schedule 2 also requires information relating to access applications in respect of which there is a conclusive presumption of overriding public interest against disclosure.

d. Information, as set out in the form required by the tables in Schedule 2, relating to the access applications (if any) made to the agency during the reporting year.

* More than one decision can be made in respect of a particular access application. If so, a recording must be made in relation to each such decision. This also applies to Table B.

* A personal information application is an access application for personal information (as defined in clause 4 of Schedule 4 to the Act) about the applicant (the applicant being an individual)

Table A: Number of applications by type of applicant and outcome*

Table B: Number of applications by type of application and outcome*

of access applications that were refused, either wholly or partly, because the application was for the disclosure of Information for which there is conclusive presumption of overriding public interest against disclosure

Table C: Number

presumption of overriding public interest against disclosure

* The Information Commissioner does not have the authority to vary decisions, but can make recommendations to the original decision- maker. The data in this case indicates that a recommendation to vary or uphold the original decision has been made by the Information Commissioner.

Table E: Applications for which other public interest considerations against disclosure (listed in table 2 section 14 of Act) were considered

under Part 5 of the Act (by type of review and

Table H: Applications for review under Part 5 of the Act (by type of applicant)

Public Interest Disclosures (PIDs)

Public authorities, including councils, are required to report annually on their obligations under section 31 of the Public Interest Disclosures Act 1994. In 2022/2023, no public officials made a Public Interest Disclosure (PID) to Clarence Valley Council. No PIDs were received via other agencies and no PIDs were finalised in the reporting period.

Other Reporting

Privacy Management Plan

Information on the number of complaints made under Council’s privacy management plan.

Whilst not a statutory requirement, Council’s Privacy Management Plan provides that Council must report on the number of reviews and complaints received in its Annual Report to demonstrate accountability and transparency.

In 2022/2023 there was one privacy complaint against Council and no privacy complaints referred to Council by the Information and Privacy Commission (IPC)

Financial Reporting

Clarence Valley Council

Financial Statements

Clarence Valley Council’s audited financial reports for the year 2022/2023 are reported separately to Council. Council submitted the audited financial statements at the end of February 2024 as per an extension granted by the Office of Local Government. The Annual Financial Statements and Auditor’s Report is available on Council’s webpage.

Below is a summary of the Annual Financial Statements (updated in this report in March 2024).

*Council conducted a full review of contributed assets. Evidence was gained that the documentation supporting the recording of Infrastructure Assets relating to developer contributions had been lacking resulting in the omission of some assets over various classes. Clarence Valley Council has now updated its asset register to include these assets and updated values as at 30 June 2023.