Page No. 7 Macleay Valley Fast Facts .........................................................................8 Our Shire and its People ....................................................................... 9 History and Heritage ........................................................................... 10 Australia Day .......................................................................................... 11 Kempsey Shire Volunteers ................................................................... 12
Introduction
Our Council Mayor’s Review .......................................................................................14 General Manager’s Report ...................................................................15 Community Financial Report ........................................................16-22 Introduction of Councillors ...........................................................23-27 Council Committees .............................................................................28 Working Parties......................................................................................28 External Organisations .........................................................................29 Public Facility Management Committees ..........................................29 Beneficial Relationships...................................................................30-31 Councillor Fees and Expenses ............................................................32
Our People Introduction of General Manager and Directors..................... 34-35 Organisational Chart ............................................................................ 36 Our Employees ...................................................................................... 37 Total Number of Employees ............................................................... 38 Age and Gender Demographic of Employees ................................ 39 Learning and Development ................................................................. 39 Equal Employment Opportunity ........................................................ 40 Work Health and Safety ................................................................ 40-41 Awards and Recognition ............................................................... 42-44
The Year in Review Highlights .......................................................................................... 45-48
Sustainable Environment Fast Facts...........................................................................................50-51 Major Achievements .......................................................................52-55 Challenges ...............................................................................................55 Project Highlights ............................................................................56-57 Our Future .............................................................................................58 Measuring our Performance .........................................................59-69 Ongoing Activities .................................................................................69 Regional State of the Environmental Report ..................................70 Companion Animals Information .......................................................71
Community Engagement
Page No.
Fast Facts.......................................................................................... 74-75 About Community Engagement ....................................................... 76 Major Achievements ...................................................................... 76-77 Challenges .............................................................................................. 77 Project Highlights ........................................................................... 78-79 Our Future ...................................................................................... 80-81 Measuring our Performance ........................................................ 81-85 Library Services .................................................................................... 86
Infrastructure Services Fast Facts.......................................................................................... 88-90 About Infrastructure Services ........................................................... 91 Major Achievements ...................................................................... 91-95 Challenges .............................................................................................. 96 Project Highlights ........................................................................... 97-99 Waste Recycling ........................................................................ 100-101 Our Future ................................................................................. 102-103 Measuring our Performance General Fund Program Review .............................................. 103-106 Water and Sewerage ................................................................ 107-110 KPI Table with Comparison .................................................... 110-111 Landfill Site ..........................................................................................112 Trainees and Apprentices .................................................................112
Corporate Management
Fast Facts..............................................................................................114 LIDAR Mapping...................................................................................115 Major Achievements ................................................................. 116-117 Challenges ............................................................................................117 Project Highlight .................................................................................118 Our Future ..........................................................................................119 Measuring Performance ........................................................... 120-121 Details of Contracts ..........................................................................122 Statement of External Bodies..........................................................123 Statistical Information .......................................................................124 Applications ................................................................................ 125-126 Legal Costs Incurred by Council ....................................................127 Handling Complaints .........................................................................127
References Glossary ...................................................................................... 129-131 Acronyms and Abbreviations ...........................................................132
Customer Service Centre Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
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Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
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Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
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Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
Introduction Council, in consultation with the community, has set a vision for the Macleay Valley and a statement detailing how it will achieve this vision. The vision is supported by each of the five values which are inherent in all Council programs and services completed under each of Council’s five goals.
The Shire Vision
“The value of our natural environment and lifestyle is preserved and enhanced by the community and Council.”
Achieving Council’s Vision
“Council provides high quality services and facilities through strong leadership which considers the needs of our community, the environment and future generations.”
Council’s Values Trust
Our Goals
1
To facilitate ecological and economic sustainable development in the Shire.
Co-operation
2
To foster and enhance effective social, cultural and community relations, building respect and civic pride.
Service
3 4
We earn trust by being honest, respecting differences and by encouraging open communication. We achieve the best for our community through effective teamwork. We value our community by providing quality professional service to all.
Innovation
We encourage creative and visionary thinking to achieve sustainable outcomes.
Pride
We take pride in Kempsey Shire Council’s contribution to our community.
5
To plan and fund the Shire’s infrastructure and service needs. To pursue beneficial relationships with regional neighbours and other levels of Government. To ensure leadership and effective, efficient accountable management.
Council’s Approach to Integrated Planning and Reporting (IPR) Council introduced the integrated planning and reporting framework which replaced the former Management Plan and Social Plan. It also included the long-term Community Strategic Plan and Resourcing Strategy. The IPR recognises that Council plans should not exist in isolation – land use and infrastructure planning produces social, environmental and economic outcomes, and vice-versa – they are connected. It recognises that our communities share similar aspirations: a safe, healthy and pleasant place to live, a sustainable environment, opportunities for social interaction, opportunities for employment and reliable infrastructure. The new framework opens the way for Council and the community to have important discussions about funding priorities, service levels, preserving local identity and planning in partnership for a more sustainable future.
Annual Report 2011 - 12
Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
REGIONAL
STATE OF THE EN VIR ON ME NT
2012
For the North ern River s Catch ment Mana geme nt Autho rity regio n of NSW
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Macleay Valley Fast Facts Population
Population 28,134 Males 14,111 Females 14,023 Median Age 45 years Aboriginal & Torres Straight Islanders 11.1% Population growth 2.7% Largest denomination Anglican (26.6%)
Families
Families 7,509 Average children/family 1.9 Private dwellings 13,409 Average people/household 2.4
Financial
Median weekly household income $748 Median monthly mortgage repayments $1,300 Median weekly rent $190 Median sales price Kempsey (all dwellings) $260,000 (increase of 6.1% for the 12 months to December 2011)
Assets & Access
Average motor vehicles per dwelling 1.6 Houses 89.2% Apartments 4.5% Broadband Internet access 64% *ABS 2011 Census
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Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
Our Shire and its People Kempsey Shire covers an area of 335,000 hectares from the Pacific Ocean in the east to Five Day Creek in the west; from Grassy Head in the north to Kundabung in the south. It is an area rich in beautiful coastal beaches and natural bush hinterland. Central to the lifeblood of the Shire is the Macleay River, which is surrounded by a wide floodplain of rich pastoral land and productive farms, overlooked by stunning mountain country. Kempsey Shire is in an excellent strategic position for businesses wishing to access the lucrative markets of Sydney and Brisbane. Kempsey, located on the banks of the Macleay River, is the largest town in the Shire. It is a hub of
retail and business activity with the main northsouth railway line bisecting the town. Kempsey is surrounded by pleasant rural villages such as Frederickton, Smithtown, Gladstone, Willawarrin and Bellbrook. The temperate climate and the natural beauty of the environment have contributed to the region’s relaxed coastal lifestyle, which is highly prized by residents and visitors to the Shire. Add to this the coastal resort areas of South West Rocks, Crescent Head, Hat Head and Stuarts Point, which are a magnet for holidaymakers and it is easy to see why an increasing number of people opt for a sea or tree change, making Kempsey Shire their permanent home.
Our Villages:
Bellbrook Crescent Head Frederickton Gladstone Grassy Head Hat Head Kinchela Kundabung Jerseyville Smithtown South West Rocks Stuarts Point Willawarrin
Travel south to Sydney
428kms and north
to Brisbane
538kms
Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
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History and Heritage The Kempsey Shire, Macleay Valley, is located on the Mid North Coast of NSW offering tremendous diversity in lifestyle opportunities and containing some of the best coastline, hinterland and national parks in Australia. The Macleay River is at the heart of the Shire as it carves its way from the mountains of the New England Plateau to the sea at South West Rocks. Local government came to the Macleay Valley in 1885 with the constitution of the Kempsey Borough Council. The remainder of the Valley was introduced to municipal administration in 1907 with the formation of the Macleay Shire Council. In 1975 these two authorities agreed to amalgamate, with the Kempsey Shire Council being incorporated on 1 October 1975 to govern the entire Macleay Valley. Our history has its beginnings with the Dunghutti Aboriginal people, a group who lived in harmony with the land. Their pattern of life was governed by codes of conduct regarded as sacred, having been handed down through countless generations. Remnants of their ancient culture remain in our Valley.
The earliest European settlement was recorded in 1827 with the establishment of a cedar party north of Euroka Creek on the Macleay River. The fine stands of cedar and rosewood timbers attracted the first residents. The first land grants were surveyed on the east bank of the Macleay in 1835. Enoch William Rudder, a merchant from Birmingham, became Kempsey’s first white settler. He surveyed the land for a private town which he named Kempsey as he found the countryside reminiscent of the valley of Kempsey in Worcestershire, England. Industry from our past still plays an important role in the local economy today, including timber, beef and dairy cattle, maize, potatoes, fishing, prawning and oyster farming. Over time, industry has diversified with the Macleay Valley now being home to a number of Australia’s leading manufacturers including Akubra, Nestlé Australia Ltd and Australian Solar Timbers.
Rudders Hill and East Kempsey 1880.
New and exciting industries are emerging such as crayfish, deer, ostrich and emu farming. The horticulture industry is blooming and tropical fruit and vegetables flourish in our subtropical climate. Our Shire’s culture continues to be developed and enhanced with some of the most talented craftspeople and artisans in Australia living and working in our area, while our tourist industry is growing as more and more people discover this beautiful Valley. 10
As our Shire progressed, so did our transport systems. Bullock and horse teams were the carriers of early times and shipping played a major role in transport. The first vehicular ferry operated in 1842. Up until 1893, the entrance to the Macleay River was at Grassy Head and droghers regularly plied the river carrying produce to meet the ocean going ships that tied up at Kempsey wharf. The railway edged north to the town in 1917.
Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
Australia Day
Awarding Outstanding Members of the Community Citizens of the Year Award The 2013 Kempsey Shire Citizens of the Year was awarded to Glen and Elaine Brown. The awardees are a dynamic couple who have provided service and dedication to the Macleay Valley community over the past 41 years.
Young Citizen of the Year Award The 2013 Kempsey Shire Young Citizen of the Year was awarded to Jake Sutherland in recognition of sporting and volunteering achievements. Jake's involvement with the many charities, local sporting organisations and fundraising, warrants recognition.
Young Citizens of the Year Achievement Awards
The 2013 Kempsey Shire Young Citizens of the Year Achievement was awarded to Josh Swan and Mark Thurgood in recognition of their sporting achievements. Between attending Year 9 and working part time at McDonalds, it is a wonder that Josh Swan had any time for his passion for cricket. In 2012 it resulted in him playing the game he loves but he also found the time to be actively involved in coaching the U/14s cricket side as well. Mark Thurgood, 15, is a student of Melville High School and Captain of Kempsey Swimming Club. He has been swimming since the age of 6, at club and local events, and his achievements continue to grow.
Community Group of the Year Award
The 2013 Kempsey Shire Community Group of the Year was awarded to Paul Phillips and Owen Welsh in recognition of the Graffiti Blasters’ contribution to the community.
Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
11
Kempsey Shire Volunteers • Over 200 people volunteer at the visitor information centres, Council libraries and Macleay Community Care Options. • Council has 150 committee volunteers who contribute to 15 Council facilities.
South West Rocks Lions Club
Graffiti Blasters
Kempsey West Rotary Club SES volunteers with Governor General Marie Bashir
Volunteers: Graffiti Blasters, Visitor Information Centre, Kempsey District Silver Band Committee, Friends of Wigay Park, Gladstone Hall Committee, Macleay Valley Community Art Gallery Committee, South West Rocks School of Arts Committee, Hat Head Community Dune Care, Melville Community Centre Management Committee, Crescent Head Hall Committee, Frederickton Hall Committee, Millbank Hall Committee, Sherwood Hall Committee, Stuarts Point Flagstaff restoration volunteers Community Hall Committee, Willawarrin Hall Committee, Bellbrook Tennis Club, Gladstone Tennis Club, Hat Head Tennis Club, Kempsey Tennis Club, South Kempsey Tennis Club, Stuarts Point Tennis Club, Kalateenee Recreational Reserve Committee, Kempsey Shire Libraries, Macleay Community Care Options. 12
Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
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It has been a historic year for the Macleay Valley. The opening of the new section of the Pacific Highway, moving the heavy vehicles out of our main service town of Kempsey, has created tremendous opportunities for our Valley. We now boast Australia’s longest bridge as part of the new highway, spanning across the majestic floodplain of the Macleay River. We have been preparing for the Bypass for many years and have developed economic and social strategies to reinvigorate the town of Kempsey, turning it from a car and truck dominated space to a people place. These actions have now started with the development and implementation of detailed landscaping designs for the Central Business District (CBD) and improved access to retailers. We have also seen progress on a number of previously planned projects such as the wharf at Mattys Flat to provide boating facilities, and the CBD improvements in South West Rocks for traffic and pedestrian access. During the year we were once again reminded of what a resilient community we are. The beginning of 2013 saw three consecutive floods impact on our Valley. While living on a fertile floodplain strengthens our farms, it also means we have to be prepared for floods. The accumulative impact of three floods in as many weeks seriously tested our community; we emerged from these events stronger and more resilient. We came together to support our rural and retail sectors. Together, Council and the community worked to recover and move on. Our most recent local government election welcomed six new councillors to provide governance over the strategic direction of the Council and our community. Through their leadership and contributions we have developed a new Community Strategic Plan reflecting the community’s aspirations of being Healthy, Wealthy, Sociable and Safe. This is a long term plan to enhance our quality of life and those of future generations through access to the services we need and desire. It has been an exciting year where we have laid the foundations for investment in our future through strategic planning and key partnerships with state and federal governments. More than that, we have started doing what is needed to achieve our goals of being Healthy, Wealthy, Safe and Sociable. On behalf of myself and my fellow councillors, I present to you our achievements during the year. Mayor, Councillor Liz Campbell
Mattys Flat Wharf at South West Rocks
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Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
With over $1billion of assets under our care and a wide range of services the community relies on, prioritising our limited finances to our highest areas of need, based on risk and public benefit, remains important. Much of our focus over the last year has been on our ageing road and bridge infrastructure, the areas ranked as of greatest importance by the community. Our strategy is to maintain the few roads that are still in good condition, repair sections of road that have been under high usage, and replace larger sections of deteriorated road.. This is providing better outcomes, with the road works that are being done benefitting many people and starting to show some visible outcomes. With the highway now bypassing Kempsey the focus has moved to implementing our plans to ensure the longer term economic viability of the CBD. Much thought and many conversations are now being turned into design plans that will allow changes to be put in place. Having our plans in place has allowed Council to take advantage of the NSW State Government’s low interest loans scheme, with Council securing a $5.6million low interest loan to reinvigorate the CBD Effectively the cost of the loan interest is lower than the rising costs of road, maintenance, meaning we can get the job done earlier with no real extra cost. Council also secured a grant of $800,000 to assist with the $1.8million extension of the water services to employment lands in South Kempsey, a bottleneck to expansion. This infrastructure will also service the proposed service centres associated with the highway upgrade, helping ensure that the area benefits from passing trade. The planning and design works we have done, and are now completing, will form the basis for positive returns from our investment into the commercial and retail areas, through increased development and employment opportunities. Our focus has been on creating a good place to live and invest. While there is a long way to go, the work undertaken this year will help us get to where we need to be. The financial sustainability of Council is a continuing challenge. Our financial statements continue to show a bleak picture. Work undertaken through the year allows us to get an indication of another aspect of our situation. Each year we should maintain our assets. Just like you have to maintain your car or house, we need to maintain the community’s assets. International findings are that we should be spending between 2-4% of the assets value each year. We currently spend 1.8% of asset value on maintenance. By not maintaining assets, they deteriorate faster, meaning greater long term costs. We have improved our communication processes and have embraced new technologies to inform and converse with residents, on what we are doing, where and when we have completed projects resulting in positive responses from the community. Establishment of road information on the MyRoads Info website, increased information on flood impacts and the growing number of people on the SMS trees that Council has established shows a growing capability to get the information people need to them. Tools such as Facebook and smartphone applications allowing people to report concerns as they see them have also helped build two way communication between Council and the community. We work in a very challenging situation. My staff work very hard to provide services and complete projects, some which have been stalled for a long time. Reading this report will show that we have achieved much over the last year. I hope you enjoy reviewing our year as we have had enjoyed producing the outcomes that make up the 2012-2013 Annual Report. General Manager, David Rawlings Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
15
Community Financial Report The Community Financial Report is an overview of the key elements of Council’s financial performance. The aim of the report is to assist readers in evaluating Council’s financial position without the need to interpret the financial information contained in the Annual Financial Statements. The next few pages provide a simple explanation on what the financial reports actually mean. The three main reports are: • Statement of Cash flows • Income Statement • Statement of Financial Position
Statement of Cash Flows The Statement of Cash flows is just like your bank statement. This statement only reports cash and shows: • How much money we started the year with • Where the money was spent, and
• Where the incoming money came from • How much money we have left at the end of the year.
Operating Activities include all other areas such as rates, user charges, grants, employee costs, material and services, interest and administration. Investing Activities include money Council receives and spends when we buy or sell property, plant and equipment. Financing Activities are cash received if Council takes out new loans or cash paid to repay loans. Cashflow Snapshot
2012
2011
$’000
$’000
$’000
Opening cash balance
31,590
32,221
33,613
Net cashflow from operating activities
11,980
13,981
10,655
(16,773)
(11,955)
(10,002)
1,651
(2,657)
(2,045)
28,448
31,590
32,221
Net cashflow for investing activities Net cashflow from financing activities Closing cash balance
16
2013
Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
Community Financial Report
cont.
Income Statement Did we make a profit or loss? The Income Statement measures Council’s financial performance over the financial year. The statement shows where Council’s money comes from (revenue) and how that revenue is consumed (expenses) in providing services to the community. The 2012-13 Income Statement reveals a net operational deficit (loss) for the year of $15.668m compared to a deficit of $16.799m in the previous year. The major contributor to Council’s Operating Deficit is the cost of depreciation ($29.508million), depreciation represents the consumption of Council’s assets over time. The operating deficit of $15.668 million reflects the shortfall in funding that is required maintaining and renewing Council’s assets so as to ensure that they continue to provide agreed levels of service expected by the community. Where did our money come from? To pay for the services provided Council collects money from the community - the people who use the services. Councils obtain money in six main ways: Rates - This is Council’s basic source of income and is used to maintain and improve services and facilities for the community. The owner of a house or land pays rates. Charges - Council imposes an annual charge for providing services such as water, sewerage, drainage and waste management. Fees - Council charges fees for any other service they provide e.g. • Entry to swimming pools • Use of council owned halls • Assessing and approving building and development applications.
Other income
Grants & contributions
Grants - Council receives a financial assistance grant every year under the Local Government (Financial Assistance) Act 1995.Councils also receives other specific grants contributing to the delivery of services such as flood mitigation, regional road maintenance and environmental protection.
2013
Rates & annual charges
User charges & fees Interest & investment revenue
Borrowings - Council borrows money from financial institutions with the approval of the Minister for Local Government.
Investments - Council earns on money invested with financial institutions, this is done within strict guidelines laid down by the Minister for Local Government and Councils policies. Main Sources of Income
2013
2012
2011
$’000
$’000
$’000
Rates & Annual Charges
25,872
24,233
23,364
User Charges & Fees
12,388
11,114
10,850
1,490
1,935
1,853
Grants & Contributions Other Income
16,686 323
17,135 407
18,387 298
Total Income
56,759
54,824
54,752
Interest & Investment Revenue
This year Council’s income was $56.668m. The income is categorised in the table to the left. For more detail on the sources of income refer to the appendix - Note 3 Kempsey Shire Councils Financial Statements.
Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
17
Community Financial Report
cont.
Where was the money spent? Council’s expenditure for the year was $72.336m. For more detail on the sources of expenditure refer to the appendix - Note 4 Kempsey Shire Councils Financial Statements. Expenditure Employee benefits & on-costs
2013
2012
2011
$’000
$’000
$’000
19,365
19,381
8,742
2,918
3,111
3,206
Materials & contracts
15,742
15,151
14,965
Depreciation & amorisation
29,508
29,974
14,286
4,803
4,006
4,220
72,336
71,623
55,419
Borrowing costs
Other expenses Total income
Other expenses
Depreciation & amorisation
2013
Employee benefits & on-costs Materials & contracts
Borrowing costs
Council’s expenditure is incurred in the provision of services and infrastructure to the community. Some of the services Kempsey Shire Council provides are: • Public halls • Swimming pools and other sporting facilities • Public toilets and community rubbish bins • Managing public land such as parks and other types of recreation areas • Promoting local and regional tourism and economic development opportunities
• Roads, bridges, footpaths and gutters • Waste disposal services • Water & sewerage infrastructure • Community care services for the frail aged and younger people with a disability • Libraries What the money was spent on Administration
Business services Community services Drainage Economic Emergency services
Water
Environmental Governance Planning Public amenities
Waste services Recreation Sewer
Roads, bridges & footpaths
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Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
Community Financial Report
cont.
Statement of Financial Position The previous statements showed the activity that has happened for a 12 month period. The Statement of Financial Position shows what Council’s net accumulated financial worth is at the end of each financial year. The Statement of Financial Position is broken down into three areas: • What Council owns (Assets) • What Council owes (Liabilities) • What Council is worth in dollar terms (Equity) Equity is worked out by taking the total of our liabilities away from our assets. 2012 $’000
2011 $’000
1,182,774
1,141,700
1,184,882
Liabilities (L)
60,114
58,970
60,949
Equity (A-L)
1,122,660
1,082,730
1,123,933
Financial Position Snapshot Assets (A)
2013 $’000
Assets The major components of our assets include: • Cash • Receivables • Property, plant and equipment • Capital work in progress Property, plant and equipment accounts for 97% of Council’s assets. This is a significant investment by the organisation and requires astute management to ensure the level of service provided by these assets is maintained. As at 30 June 2013, Council held total assets worth $1,182,774million. The value of property, plant and equipment in the Statement of Financial Position for the 2013 financial year is at a total of $1,145,926million. This is a $42.455million increase in value from the 2012 financial year. The increase is due to capital expenditure on infrastructure, property, plant and equipment of $17.824m, of this $12.750m was for the renewal of infrastructure. Council Constructed / Purchased Assets
2013
2012
$’000
$’000
Land and buildings
1,599
342
Plant & equipment
2,707
3,724
Roads, bridges & drainage networks
7,765
5,707
Water supply network
3,771
1,067
Sewerage network
1,730
1,848
252 17,824
4 12,692
Other assets Total
Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
Details of Property, Plant and Equipment values are shown in Note 9a of the Financial Statements.
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Community Financial Report
cont.
Liabilities The major components of our liabilities include: • Payables • Borrowings • Provisions Borrowings account for 79.5% of Council’s liabilities. This is an increase on the previous year due to Council drawing two new loans totalling $6.3m during the year. $4.3m was borrowed by Council’s Water fund to undertake mains works. Sewer fund borrowed $2m to fund planned augmentation and renewals program. Renewal in respect of its treatment facilities and mains. Equity Council’s equity or net worth can change as a result of: • a profit or loss as recorded in the income statement. • a change in the value of non-current assets resulting from the revaluation of those assets. Kempsey Shire Council’s net worth shows an increase of $39.930m in the 2012-13 year. The movement is attributed to a loss from the income statement of $15.668m and an increase in the value of noncurrent assets of $45.433m due to the revaluation and indexation of Councils assets. Council’s net worth as at 30 June 2013 is $1.122b.
Budget To provide a sound financial position for the Kempsey Shire Council, budgets form part of a detailed integrated planning cycle with a primary aim to establish a sustainable position into the future. Similar to managing a household budget, money needs to be earned, bills have to be paid and savings need to be set aside for future needs. Council’s budget is comprised of the Operating Budget and the Capital Budget. The Operating Budget provides for the day to day service delivery of Council while the Capital Budget provides funding for new and renewal infrastructure projects as well as the routine replacement of capital items and equipment such as plant and vehicles, information technology and library resources. Budget Results Kempsey Shire Council’s budget forms part of a detailed integrated planning cycle, the budgets details costs and revenues associated with the provision of services to the community and has as an underlying objective the strengthening of Council’s financial stability over the longer term. A comparison of the cash result achieved against the original budgeted estimate for the 2012-13 year is set out below: Budgeted result General Fund
Actual result
$139,505 (D)
$173,944 (D)
$866,431
Water Fund
-
$19,738 (S)
$578,189
Sewer Fund
-
$66,887 (S)
$843,291
$139,505 (D)
$27,319 (D)
$2,287,911
Consolidated (D) = Deficit (S) = Surplus
20
Accumulated cash surplus
Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
Community Financial Report
cont.
Financial Strategies Adopted by Council The need to address Council’s aging infrastructure, the deteriorating road and bridge networks and the Council’s desire to maintain current services to the community was the fundamental principle embodied in Council’s 2012-13 Budget and was the catalyst in Council successful application for a Special Rate Variation of 7.77% effective 1 July 2012. Council is continuing with its long term strategy of reducing its reliance on loan funding within its General Fund and the derision of debt servicing costs towards asset maintenance and renewals in future years. The improvements in the Asset Renewal and General Fund Debt Service Ratios provide a measure of Council’s success in addressing these issue in the year. Audit report Council’s 2012-13 Financial Statements have been audited by Thomas Nobel & Russell Chartered Accountants. The Audit report for 2012-13 is unqualified. Amount of rates and charges written off during the year cl132 Pensioner Rates
$1,366,819.04
Postponed Rates Section 585 Local Government Act Total Council pursuance to section 508(2) of the Local Government Act 1993 received a variation to its general purpose income of 7.7% for a ten year period commencing from 1 July 2008 to enable identified environmental works to be undertaken. The following expenditures in respect to works identified environmental works to be undertaken during the 2012-13 year:
$19,460.55 $1,386,279.59
Item Income
Levy 2012/13
$532,134.00
Beachwatch
$54,501.27
Boyters Lane Wetlands Plan Implementation Korogora Creek Implementation - South Bank Saltwater EMP Implementation Revenue Expenditure
Killick EMP Implementation - Strategy N Coastal Management Plan Koala Plan Stormwater Plan Implementation Macleay River Floodplain Loan Repayments Subtotal
Loan Expenditure
2012-13
Flood Mitigation Subtotal Total expenditure
Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
$9,744.96 $10,852.69 $13.32 $24,350.08 $6,431.80 $177.28 $15,221.79 $3,987.95 $332,670.32 $457,951.46 $4,840.53 $4,840.53 $462,791.99
21
Community Financial Report
cont.
Environmental Levy Reserve A summary of Income and Expenditure for the year ended 30 June 2013 is as follows: Balance as at 30 June 2012 Environmental Reserve Cash Assets
$559,570.89
Environmental Reserve Loan Funds
$33,435.00
Environmental levy Income 2011-2012
$532,134.00
Expenditure 2012-13 Works and Studies (Reserve Funded)
$125,281.14
Loan Repayment
$332,670.32
Loan Expenditure
$33,434.50
Balance 30 June 2013
22
Environmental Reserve Cash Assets
$633,753.43
Environmental Reserve Loan Funds
$28,593.97
Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
Introduction of Councillors Councillors:
• Influence the long term vision and direction for our community • Work with diverse and passionate people on a range of issues • Balance the needs and priorities of our community • Show leadership and make the best decisions for the community
Term 2008-2012 Councillor Jim Gribbin 2004-2013
Resignation 19 February 2013 Cr Jim Gribbin, Deputy Mayor Dean Saul, Cr Jenny Sproule,Cr Betty Green, Mayor Liz Campbell, Cr Alan Snowsill, Cr John Bowell, Cr Ellis Walker
The following Councillors were not re-elected in September 2012. Council acknowledges their contribution to Kempsey Shire.
Gribbin 2004-2013 Councillor Gribbin resigned on 19 February 2013 due to continuing ill health and said he had enjoyed his time on the Council and believed that while he had not accomplished all he had hoped to, he had seen projects of real benefits to the Macleay community go through.
By-Election May 2013
Bowell 1995-2012
Snowsill 2008-2012
Sproule 1999-2004, 2008-2012
Walker 2004-2012
(did not stand for re-election)
Term 2012-2016
Following the By-Election held on 11 May 2013, the result of the poll was Anna Shields. Council now has a full complement of Councillors following on from the By-Election. For the majority of time since late 2011 this Council operated with only eight Councillors instead of the nine members that make up the elected representatives of the organisation. Council is making sound progress on where we want to go as a community and as a governing body our strong focus is through sound debate and good decision making. The late Councillor Janet Hayes passed away October 2011.
The Australian Election Company was appointed to conduct the 2012 local government election for Kempsey Shire Council. The Declaration of the Mayoral Poll was conducted on Monday 17 September 2012 with Liz Campbell being declared elected for the ensuing term. The Councillors, in order of election, were: • Bruce Morris • Anthony Patterson • Dean Saul • Lou Kesby • Sue McGinn • Betty Green • Jim Gribbin • Ashley Williams Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
23
M 0427 627 074 Cr Liz Campbell (Mayor) P 6562 7352, 6566 3310 ah E liz.campbell@kempsey.nsw.gov.au First elected: September 2008 Mayor: September 2011– present Diploma of Travel and Tourism Diploma of Business Currently undertaking Bachelor of Arts (Sociology) Cr Campbell resides in East Kempsey with her husband. She was born, educated and has owned businesses within the Shire. She has also lived and worked in Brisbane, Sydney, Coffs Harbour and the Central Coast. Interests: Sociology, travel, Macleay Valley Mustangs Rugby League Club, Macleay River Business Womens Network, Aboriginal cultural and cross-cultural awareness, youth activities. Memberships of organisations, advisory committees, regional and local boards: Kempsey District Chamber of Commerce and Industry Inc; Rotary International; Australia Day Committee; Community Development and Expenditure Committee; Melville Community Centre Management Committee. Career highlights: 30 years owning and managing a travel and tourism business Joint private/public partnership with National Parks and Wildlife Service developing Smokey Cape Lighthouse Tourist Precinct TAFE Travel and Tourism lecturer Occupation: Company Secretary, Fyson Holdings M 0429 342 271 Cr Anthony Patterson (Deputy Mayor) P 6562 1194 E anthony.patterson@kempsey.nsw.gov.au First elected: September 2012 Qualified Glass Cutter/Glazier Career/personal highlights: Recipient of Businessman of the Year in 2010 In 1987 was in the Australian Dragon Boat team winning world titles in New Zealand Travelled the world in 1988 Cr Patterson was born in Kempsey in 1965 and attended St Josephs Primary School and later St Pauls High School. He began full-time work at age 15 in the aluminium and glass industry and started own business in 1989. Owner built home in 1996 in Kempsey. Developed and built own factory in Kempsey in 2009 - currently employing up to 10 local staff. Married in 1989 and has three children. Interests: Motor sport, swimming, soccer, fishing, water skiing Memberships of organisations, advisory committees, regional and local boards: Kempsey Sporting Club Car, Macleay District Motor Cycle Club, Saints Soccer Club, Nulla Cricket Club, Member of Australian Glass and Glazing, Motor Cycling Australia, Kempsey Chamber of Commerce Occupation: Business owner of Patterson Glass
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Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
M 0427 419 302 Cr Betty Green P 6562 8938 E betty.green@kempsey.nsw.gov.au First elected: September 2004 Bachelor of Health Administration Diploma of Nursing Administration Areas of interest: Strategic planning and development; social cohesion; employment, biodiversity and the environment. Memberships of organisations, advisory committees, regional and local boards: Floodplain Management Authority; Melville Community Centre Management Committee Career highlights: Director of Nursing 24 years/Executive Officer 11 years Former Executive Director of Care, Booroongen Djugun Aged Care Occupation: Retired M 0408 240 540 Cr Lou Kesby P 6562 5484 E lou.kesby@kempsey.nsw.gov.au First elected: September 2012 Restauranteur/Chef Justice of the Peace Cr Kesby has lived in Kempsey all of his life and is married with three children and three grandchildren. He firmly believes our Shire has some of the best beaches on the coast and is a great valley to promote to the world. Interests: Travel Occupation: Owner of Lou’s Café Restaurant, Kempsey
Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
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M 0417 461 716 Cr Sue McGinn OAM P 6567 4658 E sue.mcginn@kempsey.nsw.gov.au First elected: September 2012 Diploma in Agriculture Master in Business Administration specialising in Management of Organisational Change Australian Institute of Company Directors Diploma Cr McGinn was born in London in 1964 and immigrated to Australia as an infant in 1965. She grew up in Brisbane and achieved her academic qualifications as an adult learner. Sue lives with her husband, Brett, on the alluvial Lower Macleay Floodplain where they have run a dairy farm since moving to the Kempsey Shire in 1994. Interests: Cooking, friends and family. Memberships of organisations, advisory committees, regional and local boards: Director, Holiday Coast Credit Union; Director, Dairy NSW; Director, Mid Coast LHPA; Founding Director, White Knights Charity. Member of Holstein Australia; Nuffield Farming Scholars Alumni; RIRDC Rural Womens Alumni; Business Chicks; Australian Institute Company Directors; Macleay River Business Womens Network Career highlights: Nuffield Farming Scholar RIRDC Rural Womens Award Finalist OAM for service to the dairy industry and as a role model for rural women Occupation: Dairy farmer and professional company director
M 0427 952 068 Cr Bruce Morris P 6562 6628 E bruce.morris@kempsey.nsw.gov.au First elected: September 2012 Bachelor of Engineering (Civil) Hons Diploma of Personnel and Resource Management Cr Morris is married with three children and one granddaughter. He moved to the Macleay Valley in December 2007, although he and his family have been regular visitors to the valley since the early 1980s. Community interests: Legatee with Kempsey Region of the Mid North Coast Division of Sydney Legacy Volunteer with Kempsey Unit of NSW SES Memberships of organisations, advisory committees, regional and local boards: Saleyards Advisory Group; Bush Fire Management Committee; Mid North Coast Regional Weeds Advisory Committee; Floodplain Management Committee Occupation: Retired Previous employment: Kempsey Shire Council – Director Shire Services Forbes Shire Council – Director Technical Services Narromine Shire Council – Director Engineering Services Cessnock City Council – Manager Construction and Manager Business Units Australian Army – Engineering Officer for 24 years with a number of positions in various locations in Australia and a two year posting to PNG
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Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
COUNCILLORS
Refurbishment to Council Chambers
M 0419 639 943 Cr Dean Saul P 6567 4032 E dean.saul@kempsey.nsw.gov.au First elected: September 2004 Cr Saul was born and educated in Kempsey and proudly graduated in 1987 as part of the first Year 12 at Melville High School. He has played a significant role in upgrades to the Kempsey Saleyards, wildlife fencing for the Kempsey Airport, proposed new headquarters for the Gladstone SES, increased parking spaces in the CBD; multi-cultural activities on Australia Day. He served as Deputy Mayor 2010-11 and 2011-12. Memberships of organisations, advisory committees, regional and local boards: Mid North Coast Regional Weeds Advisory Committee (Deputy Chair); Bush Fire Management Committee; Saleyards Advisory Group Occupation: Cattle Grazier at Seven Oaks and Café Owner/Operator in Kempsey
M 0427 729 643 Cr Anna Shields P 6566 5667 E anna.shields@kempsey.nsw.gov.au First elected: May 2013 (By-Election) Bachelor of Medical Science Master of Chiropractic Cr Shields attended primary school in Bourke and attended boarding school in Sydney. Memberships of organisations, advisory committees, regional and local boards: Arts Mid North Coast; Treasurer of Lower Macleay Preschool Career highlights: Working in Ireland Occupation: Chiropractor
M 0428 631 847 Cr Ashley Williams P 6562 5394 E ashley.williams@kempsey.nsw.gov.au First elected: September 2012 Cr Williams has lived in the Shire for 22 years and is married with three children. He feels privileged to be able to work as part of the new team towards improving the whole Shire for future generations. Interests: All sport, collecting memorabilia, spending time with his children. Memberships of organisations, advisory committees, regional and local boards: Natural Resources Working Group Occupation: Store Manager at Kempsey Betta Home Living Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
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Council Committees Australia Day Committee Purpose: This committee assists in determining the awards for Australia Day honours. It is also sometimes used as a sounding board for the format and nature of events. Council Representation: Mayor, Councillor Green
Community Development and Support Expenditure Committee Purpose: This committee requires the distribution of part of the funding required to be allocated by the clubs in the region from their poker machine takings that is used to fund community groups. The committee considers the applications and determines the funding. The composition of this committee has been developed in agreement with the various clubs. Council Representation: Mayor
General Manager’s Performance Review Panel Purpose: This committee undertakes the performance reviews of the General Manager. All councillors have input into the performance review, with the committee then undertaking the review. Council Representation: Mayor, Deputy Mayor, Councillor Green, Councillor McGinn
Local Traffic Committee Purpose: This committee exists to provide the advice required to satisfy Council’s delegation from the Roads and Maritime Services for traffic matters on the road network. The committee is primarily a technical review committee. Council Representation: Mayor
Works Committee Purpose: Where the councillors wish to undertake a site inspection or any matter affecting the functions of the Council. It is the only committee with delegated authority. As long as a quorum exists, the Works Committee can make a binding decision on the Council. Council Representation: All councillors
Working Parties Natural Resources Working Group Purpose: The working group meets Council’s requirement under the NSW Coast and Estuary Program and Floodplain Development Manual that it have a mechanism for consultation between government departments, Council and the community. The group provides input and advice on strategies and plans to be developed by the Council. Council Representation: Councillor Green, Councillor Williams
Saleyards Advisory Group Purpose: To provide advice and feedback in the development of the Saleyards Business Plan. Council Representation: Councillor Saul, Councillor Morris
Business Advisory Group Purpose: An advisory group to provide input to the General Manager in a confidential environment on the views of business concerning the plans and directions proposed by staff. This group also is a forum to allow business to provide frank feedback on their views to the General Manager. Council Representation: General Manager 28
Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
External Organisations Bush Fire Management Committee Purpose: Liaison committee for NSW Rural Fire Service (NSWRFS) and local government. Reviews the performance of the NSWRFS against the performance criteria in the service level agreement between the NSWRFS and Council. Council Representation: Councillor Morris, Councillor Saul (alternate).
Melville Community Centre Management Committee Purpose: The building was established with grant funding, which required the facility to be available for public access. The committee manages public access. Council Representation: Mayor, Councillor Green
Mid North Coast Regional Arts Board Purpose: The NSW Government funds a number of regional arts boards. The MNCRAB covers our region. The purpose of the Board is to encourage and promote arts in the region. The councillor is to provide the conduit between the Board and the Council. Council Representation: Councillor Shields, Councillor Green (alternate)
Mid North Coast Regional Weeds Advisory Committee Purpose: Formed to support the regional coordination of the noxious weeds response within the Mid North Coast. The group looks at the development of regional strategies for the processes of dealing with and response to noxious weeds. Council Representation: Councillor Saul, Councillor Morris (alternate)
Flood Plain Management Committee Purpose: To engage with public agencies, elected officials and other stakeholders to improve flood safety and maximise floodplain resources through effective dialogue, collaboration, education, legislation and policy. Council Representation: Councillor Green, Councillor Morris (alternate)
Public Facility Management Committees Purpose: These are committees that the Council has delegated responsibility for running certain facilities owned or controlled by the Council. They have not traditionally had specific councillor representation. Their structure varies depending on what the current community involvement is. They are listed for information. Bellbrook Tennis Club Crescent Head Hall Committee Frederickton Hall Committee Friends of Wigay Committee Gladstone Tennis Club Gladstone Youth and Community Hall Committee Kalateenee Recreation Reserve Committee Kempsey District Silver Band Committee
Macleay Valley Community Gallery Committee Millbank Hall Committee Sherwood Hall Committee Smithtown Hall Committee South Kempsey Tennis Club Stuarts Point Community Hall Committee SWR School of Arts Hall Committee Willawarrin Hall Committee
Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
29
beneficiAl relATionShipS The needs of the Kempsey Local Government Area encompass more than can be directly provided through Council. The Council engages with other levels of government to support and meet the community needs such as; the provision of adequate health services, public transport requirements and access to education and training. Funding from sources other than the local community assist in the provision of many services. Council enjoys effective working relationships with various levels of government to ensure that the Kempsey Shire is a well-respected local government area to attract future funding from State and Federal Governments for new and ongoing service provision. MIDROC The Mid North Coast Regional Organisation of Councils (MIDROC) is an important membership that Council maintains. The MIDROC is the peak organisation representing the interests of eight local government areas on behalf of over 300,000 residents of the Mid North Coast. It is the third fastest growing region in New South Wales with a projected population growth to 380,000 persons in 2031. MIDROC serves to: • Advocate to and inform all spheres of government of the economic, social, environmental and infrastructure needs of the region. • Strengthen the role of local government in regional affairs with regard to policy and strategic directions of both the State and Federal Governments. • Support the implementation of strategies that will build community capacity across the region and, • Increase the effectiveness and efficiency of member councils through sharing ideas and resources. Member Councils include Great Lakes, Gloucester Shire, Greater Taree, Port Macquarie-Hastings, Kempsey Shire, Nambucca Shire, Bellingen Shire and Coffs Harbour City. MIDROC is also the primary vehicle in establishing effective resource sharing amongst member Councils. Areas of focus for sharing and determining common approaches include asset management, planning, information technology and human resource planning and training opportunities. The year saw the MIDROC work more collaboratively across the region with the adoption of a MIDROC Regional Strategic Plan which outlines the aspirations for the organisation and the communities it represents which include: • • • •
Kempsey Traffic Bridge
30
Improving the Lifestyle of Our Local Communities Protecting our Environment Improving Councils’ Capacity and Productivity Enabling Our Communities to be Strong and Sustainable.
Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
beneficiAl relATionShipS
conT.
Partnerships Council works to develop partnerships for providing a number of services to the community with agencies such as NSW Health, NSW Trade and Investment, Joint Regional Planning Panel with Nambucca Shire Council, Department of Premier and Cabinet and Regional Development Australia. Resource sharing initiatives continue to provide benefits to the community, these include: • Library Services, our ongoing cooperative relationship with the Port MacquarieHastings Council enables Council to realise economies of scale through co-operative purchasing, and the securing of grants for shared projects. • Waste disposal is another ongoing partnership with the Cairncross Waste Recycling Facility, where Council sends its recyclable waste. Without this arrangement Kempsey Shire would have to provide its own recycling facility at significant capital and waste disposal costs. Joint Promotions The MIDROC also shared advertising opportunities for the 2012 Local Government Elections, running regional television commercials to raise the profile of local government and to encourage more people to consider standing for elections. The MIDROC also implemented a common service on their websites called MyRoad Info which provides information on road works or the impacts of flooding on local roads and bridges. This service was promoted at a regional level to encourage residents and visitors to find out about local conditions. Joint Flood Recovery In January and February 2013 the Local Government Areas of Nambucca, Kempsey and Port Macquarie - Hastings experienced significant floods. The strength of the relationships forged at the MIDROC enabled the three councils to form one Recovery Committee to support the recovery processes across the region, successfully coordinating local and state resources to support locally affected communities. Memberships Council is a member of the Pacific Highway Taskforce, the peak lobbying body for the full upgrade to dual carriage way for the Pacific Highway. Council is also a member of the Shires Association as well as an associate member in the Local Government Association.
Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
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Councillor Fees and Expenses Total amount of money spent on Mayoral and councillor fees s428(2)(f) Councillors are required to attend meetings of Council and its committees, to represent Council at public functions, to attend training and professional development sessions and to attend conferences that relate to the business of Council. These meetings are not only held in Kempsey Shire but are often held in Sydney or regional New South Wales. The attendance at meetings can involve expenses relating to travel, accommodation and sustenance. Under these circumstances Council pays these expenses up to the limits outlined in the Policy. Each Councillor receives an annual fee within a range set by the Local Government Remuneration Tribunal. The Mayor in addition receives a Mayoral fee within a range set by the Local Government Remuneration Tribunal. Council by resolution sets these fees for each financial year within the range allowed by the Local Government Remuneration Tribunal. The total mayoral and councillor fees paid in the 2012-2013 year were: Mayor
$37,230 Councillors (9) $140,520 Council’s policy on the provision of facilities for use by Councillors and the payment of Councillors’ expenses s428(2)(f) Council’s procedure for payment of expenses and provision of facilities to the Mayor and Councillors can be found at the following address www.kempsey.nsw.gov.au/policies/
Councillor’s Expenses and Provision of Facilities Council has adopted a procedure covering the payment of expenses and provision of facilities to the mayor and councillors. Council’s procedure was developed in accordance with the Division of Local Government’s guidelines. The procedure provides for reimbursement of reasonable expenses incurred up to a limit per month set by the procedure. The mayor is provided with a vehicle and a mobile telephone, if required, for Council business use. For the 2012-2013 year the mayor elected not to have a vehicle or mobile phone provided. The mayor’s travel expenses and telephone expenses were reimbursed in accordance with the procedure. All councillors are provided with an iPad with internet connection to receive meeting agendas electronically and for use on Council business . A corporate wardrobe is provided for councillors and meals are provided on Council meeting days when required. Councillors may claim reimbursement for travel when using their private vehicles for council business such as attending meetings, at a per kilometre rate adopted as part of the procedure.
Council chambers 2013
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Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
Details of overseas visits by Councillors, Council staff or other persons representing Council s428(2)(r) cl 217(1)(a) There were no overseas visits by Councillors, Council staff or other persons representing Council during 2012-2013.
Total amount of money expended during that year on the provision of councillor facilities and the payment of councillor expenses, including separate details of the total cost of s428(2)(f) cl 217(1)(a1):
Expense
Cost
Mayor’s travelling expenses $26 Mayor’s telephone, and internet expenses $1,013 Councillor’s travelling expenses $5,155 Cost of telephone calls made by councillors including costs of provision of internet $4,780 and facsimile facilities 217(1)(a1)(i)(ii) Ipad expenses $6,483 Attendance of councillors at conferences and seminars 217(1)(a1)(iii) $11,335 Interstate visits by councillors, including transport, accommodation and other out of pocket travelling expenses 217(1)(a1)(v) Nil Meals and refreshments for council and committee meetings $3,726 Training of councillors and provision of skill development 217(1)(a1)(iv) $1,474 Councillor’s corporate wardrobe $6,896 Overseas visits by councillors, including transport, accommodation and other out of pocket travelling expenses 217(1)(a1)(vi) Nil Expenses of any spouse, partner or other person who accompanied a councillor 217(1)(a1)(vii) Nil Expenses involved in the provision of care for a child or an immediate family member of a councillor 217(1)(a1)(viii) Nil Provision of dedicated office equipment allocated to councillors 217(1)(a1)(i) Nil
Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
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General Manager - David Rawlings Bachelor of Business in Accounting and Marketing Management Graduate Diploma in Local Government Management The General Manager is the only designated senior staff member within Council’s structure. Appointed as General Manager at KSC: July 2009 Experience: Over 24 years of experience in local government.
Director Infrastructure Services - Robert Scott Bachelor of Engineering (civil) with second class honours Master of Environmental Engineering Management Memberships: Member of Institute of Public Works Engineers and Australian Water Association and Engineers Australia. Appointed as Director at KSC: July 2010 Experience: Previously worked for KSC in 1999-2000 as a Design Engineer. Over 16 years experience in local government including positions with Gosford City, Hornsby Shire and Port Macquarie-Hastings Councils. Previous employment outside local government: New South Wales State Rail Authority.
Director Sustainable Environment - Robert Pitt Bachelor of Arts (Geography) Diploma of Natural Resources (Land Use Management) Diploma in Urban and Regional Planning Appointed as Director at KSC: October 2004 Experience: Commenced in 1992 as a Town Planner, moving to Senior Planner, Planning Co-ordinator and Director.
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Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
Director Community Engagement - Kathy Oliver Master of Business Administration Master of Management Memberships: Member Local Government Managers Association Appointed as Director at KSC: April 2010 Experience: Kathy began at Kempsey in 2003, holding positions of Manager Economic Development, Manager Strategic Planning and Economic Development, Manager Community Services and Acting Director Corporate and Community Services. Previous employment outside local government: Telstra, the NSW Government and Boral Construction Materials Group.
Director Corporate Management - Daryl Hagger Bachelor of Business in Accounting Memberships: Member of State Wide Mutual NSW Local Government appointed Director Corporate Management in August 2010. Appointed as Director at KSC: August 2010 Experience: Joined Windsor Municipal Council in April 1979, Hawkesbury City Council in January 1981, Cooma-Monaro Shire Council in June 1990. Over 34 years experience in local government including 24 years at executive level across Finance, Governance and Corporate Management.
Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
35
oRGanisational cHaRt as at 30 June 2013 General Manager
DaViD RaWlinGs
Director Community Engagement
KatHy oliVeR
Manager Community Relations
Director Corporate Management
DaRyl HaGGeR
Manager Finance
Director Infrastructure Services
RoBeRt scott
Manager Operations
RoBeRt Pitt
Manager Development Assessments
Vacant
tony cuRtin
tony GReen
Kate alBeRRy
Manager Service Delivery
Manager Information Management & Governance
Manager Technical Services
Manager Economic Sustainability
Vacant
PatRicK HanRaHan
tReVoR DicKson
Manager Water Operations
MicHael MuRPHy
Manager Water Process
BelinDa GReen
Manager Water Strategy
anne MaRee BuRKe 36
Director Sustainable Environment
Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
susannaH sMitH
Manager Regulatory Compliance
Ken WaRD
Our Employees
Statement of the number of senior staff employed by the council during the year s428(2)(g) Consistent with Section 332 of the Local Government Act 1993, Council designates the Senior Staff positions within Council. The General Manager is the only designated Senior Staff member within Council’s structure. The total remuneration package for the General Manager in the reporting year was $228,066. Statement of the total remuneration comprised in remuneration packages of each senior staff member employed during year s428(2)(g) cl 217(1)(b) Includes for each such member, total of the following: • Total value of salary component of package cl 217(1)(b)(i) $194,557 • Total amount of any bonus payments, performance or other payments that do not form part of salary component cl 217(1)(b)(ii) Nil • Total employer’s contribution to superannuation (salary sacrifice or employers contribution) cl 217(1)(b)(iii) $26,109 • Total value non-cash benefits cl 217(1)(b)(iv) $7,400 • Total fringe benefits tax for non-cash benefits cl 217(1)(b)(v) Nil
Our Workforce Management Strategy aims to
ensure there are sufficient numbers of appropriately trained employees to carry out the organisation’s purpose. That is, the right people are in the right place at the right time to build a strong, interconnected and sustainable organisation. The principles of this plan are built on attraction and retention, employee safety and wellness, work/life balance, skill development, organizational culture, employee satisfaction and promoting local government as a career prospect to local schools. To meet these principles we have adopted procedures and practices that will assist us in becoming an attractive employer with: • variable work arrangements • flexible working arrangements for parents/carers • providing access to phased retirement plans for matured aged workers • participating in career’s expos • hosting work placements from local schools/TAFE and neighbouring universities • hosting 18 trainees and 2 apprentices from a group training organisation within the areas of Water/Sewer Services, Civil Construction, Horticulture, Engineering/Mechanical Trade and Electrotechnology/Electrician • employing 3 new trainees in the areas of Human Resources, Customer Service and Web Administration • participating in engineering scholarships with Newcastle University and an Urban and Regional Planning scholarship with University of New England • gauging the satisfaction of our employees by conducting an annual employee opinion survey.
Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
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Total Number of Employees
To deliver the services of Council we had a head count of 299 employees with 286.45 Full Time Equivalent (FTE). Department Head Count
FTE
Community Engagement 57 Corporate Management 38 General Managers 2 Infrastructure Services 172 Sustainable Environment 30
48.5 35.65 2 171.1 29.2
The numbers below are based on actual head count and include permanent full-time and part-time staff. The figures exclude temporary and casual appointments engaged through Labour Hire, and apprentices and trainees who are employed by external training providers. Position Breakdown 2012-2013 2011-12 2010-11 2010-09 No. of Full-Time positions 256 263 246 228 No. of Part-Time Positions 31 33 34 35 No. of Casual Positions No. of Temporary Part-Time Positions 4 4 2 No. of Temporary Full-Time Positions 8 4 1 6 Total 299 300 283
269
The turnover rates and employees numbers indicates a fairly stable workforce. % staff turnover rates 2009-2010 16
4.97%
2010-2011 15
5.34%
2011-2012 13
4.26%
2012-2013 15
4.97%
Mechanical Apprentice machining sewer pump component.
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Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
Age and Gender Demographic of Employees The age demographics across Council’s workforce indicate that 61.2% of the workforce is over 45 years of age and of this 28.7% are over 55 years of age. (See figure below) Based on FTE staff numbers Council’s workforce is 30% female / 70% male.
Age Demographics as at 30 June 2013 80 70 60 Male
50
Female
40 30 20 10 0
< 25 years (7)
25-34 years (43)
35-44 years (66)
45-54 years (97)
55-64 years (82)
> 65 years (4)
Learning and Development In 2012-2013 a total of 7507 hours was spent on training courses and conference/seminar attendance, not including tertiary sponsored studies. The participation rate of employees undertaking training was 93.98% of the FTE staff number. Training was undertaken across a wide range of programs to develop our staff and to improve how we deliver our services including: customer service, management/ leadership, communications, environmental, water industry, aged/disability care, corporate systems, business improvement, computer, regulatory/governance and Workplace Health and Safety (WHS).
Course Categories 5%
WHS Regulatory Governance
21% 43%
Management/ Leadership Environmental Water Industry Conference/Seminar
13%
Corporate/Systems /Business 6% 4%
5%
Aged/Disability
3% Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
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Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) We continued our ongoing focus on fostering a culture that values and responds to the diversity of our staff and community. The aim is to achieve fair practices and behaviours in the workplace to be free from all forms of unlawful activity, harassment and discrimination by having open and competitive recruitment; providing access to training and development; and providing flexible working arrangements. All vacant positions during the year were advertised and filled in accordance with the merit principle, the Local Government Act 1993, the Local Government (State) Award and the EEO Management Plan. Number of positions advertised 41 Number of positions filled 30 Number of positions being filled 2013-2014 8 Number of applications received 775 Number of positions where females applied 18 Number of positions where females were successful 7 Council employed 85.93 full time equivalent (FTE) women during the year, taking the level of women in the workplace to 30.0%. The number of women in management roles remained unchanged at 5 representing 33.3% of our Management team with 7 women represented in our leadership team representing 38.8%.
Employment of people with Disabilities Council employed 7.5 full time equivalent staff (FTE) with a disability, taking the level of people with a disability within Council to 2.6%.
Employment of people of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Descent Council employed 12 full time equivalent staff who identify as being of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander descent, taking the level of Indigenous employment within Council to 4.19%.
Employment of people from Non English Speaking Backgrounds (NESB) Council employed 4.69 full time equivalent staff from a Non English Speaking Background, taking the level of people from NESB within Council to 1.64%
Flexibility for Work and Family Arrangements Staff are informed of the opportunities for flexible working arrangements, including parental leave, working from home and phased retirement. During 2012-2013 employees accessed flexible working arrangements of: • paid maternity leave 8 • supporting parents leave 8
• phrased retirement • working from home
3 5
Work Health and Safety (WHS) Kempsey Shire Council is committed to providing a safe and healthy environment for employees, students, contractors and the public. This is achieved by fully integrating health and safety into all its operations and activities, continual improvement and requiring leadership in safety. To improve and maintain the standard of Work Health and Safety (WHS) within Council, our safety management system is implemented based on systematic identification, assessment and control of hazards. To ensure the ongoing development and improvement of WHS systems, policies and procedures that foster effective communication and consultation forms a fundamental part of this management process, encouraging innovative means of reducing risk on the work environment. Health and Safety Committee The main medium for consultation on health and safety is through the Health and Safety Committee. The membership of the committee comprises of health and safety representatives (HSR) and management representatives. The HSRs represent the employees within their work groups and provide a forum to discuss health and safety issues with management and to bring about a culture in the workplace to think and work safely. Training on the Work Health and Safety legislation and the role of HSRs in the workplace was provided to the Health and Safety Committee. 40
Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
Work Health and Safety
cont.
Annual Self-assessment We received a payment of $40,000 for completion of the WHS annual self- assessment and verification audit conducted by our Workers’ Compensation Insurer, StateCover. The StateCover report on the selfassessment audit said “that Council’s overall WHS performance is above average when compared to the average score for all councils.”
Group Average KSC Average
72.00%
StateCover Average
66.80%
Region Average
64.80%
Department of Local Government Average
73.60%
WHS Training This year 3,191 hours was sent by staff attending WHS training. The training was varied with programs being delivered in the statutory WHS tickets/licences, WHS legislation and Council’s WHS management system across all levels of Council. Lost Time Injury Frequency Rate (LTIFR) The number of workers compensation claims for this year has decreased by 3 falling from 23 in 2011/2012 to 20, while the number of lost time injuries remained unchanged at 14. Days lost to injury for this year have improved by 60.32%, with a frequency rate of 7.07 days when compared with 17.82 days in 2011/2012. The improvement in the number of lost days reflects Council’s proactive approach to Injury Management. We are committed to support injured workers in their return to work as early as possible to meaningful employment within their physical capacities determined by treating medical practitioners.
Staff training (Water services)
Employee Assistance Program (EAP) As part of our commitment to health and well-being, Council offers access to an Employee Assistance Program (EAP) to staff and their immediate family members. The program offers confidential and professional advice, support and counselling on a wide range of issues that can be either personal or work related, including serious problems such as depression, drug and alcohol dependence, and anxiety. The program also provides critical incident counselling if required. The program is promoted initially at employee induction training and posters are on display in work areas. Staff accessed 22 hours of EAP services this reporting year.
Council Raises $1,456.40 for Biggest Morning Tea Charity Council staff played an active part in the Australia’s Biggest Morning tea celebrations in May 2013. Staff contributed to the morning tea by providing baked goods, savoury items and fruit which were enjoyed by Council’s Operations and Administrative Staff. An impressive tally was further enhanced by donations from fundraising sales during the year by Customer Services of $500. Council is proud of the contributions made by staff and acknowledges that the total of donations for 2013 more than doubled from last year’s $539 with an overall sum this year being an impressive $1,456.40. Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
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42
Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
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Awards received during 2012-2013 have been detailed below by Council department
Citizenship Ceremonies
The final step in the journey to become an Australian citizen, for most people, is to make the Citizenship Pledge at an Australian citizenship ceremony. Three ceremonies were conducted by the Mayor with 18 people from the following countries becoming Australian Citizens during this reporting period: • Netherlands • England • United States • Sri Lanka • Switzerland • Scotland • Philippines • Bulgaria 44
Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
The Year in review
JULY 2012
• Kempsey-Armidale Road at Jobs Cutting reopens to traffic (see page 91) • Child Friendly by Design Workshop Making child and family friendly places a reality in communities • National Schools Tree Day
AUGUST 2012
• Race, Stay, Play - Tourism campaign off and racing for Kempsey Cup • Brossys Bridge - Timber bridge replaced with concrete box culvert • Council commenced a partnership with the Mid North Coast Correctional Centre Mobile Team
SEPTEMBER 2012
During the year, Council has been a part of many varied events. Some detailed highlights below:
• Taxi Voucher Scheme commenced in Kempsey • Kempsey Shire Council’s election results - Five new faces • Club GRANTS recipients announced • Expansion of East Kempsey Cemetery • Volunteer Drivers committed assistance to Kempsey Family Community Centre Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
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The Year in review
conT.
• Waste into Art exhibition a success (see page 100)
NOVEMBER 2012
• Bus Shelters in Crescent Head and Smithtown and taxi rank in Kempsey completed (see page 92) • Geo Mapping changing the way Kempsey views floods • South West Rocks Flagstaff Restoration ceremony (see page 98)
• Akubra World Guinness record achieved
DECEMBER 2012
OCTOBER 2012
During the year, Council has been a part of many varied events. Some detailed highlights below:
• Maritime Museum volunteers recognised for work on South West Rocks Flagstaff • International Women’s Day Exhibition turns Violet • Kempsey Mall reopened to traffic, new paving, seats, lighting and landscaping (see page 91)
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(see page 54)
• Draft Local Environmental Plan Shire wide on Public Exhibition (see page 52) • Reserve Road, Crescent Head reconstruction widening and pedestrian pathway completed (see page 97) • HSC Art Exhibition supported by Council
• Launch of Macleay Valley Welcome Pack (see pages 54 and 67)
Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
The Year in review
conT.
FEBRUARY 2013
JANUARY 2013
During the year, Council has been a part of many varied events. Some detailed highlights below:
• Designated Smoking areas implemented throughout the Shire • Event Support of NSW Surf Lifesaving Country Championships at South West Rocks (see page 68) • Australia Day Award Ceremony and Festival (see page 11)
• Draft Kempsey LEP 2012 public information sessions held • Korogora Creek Walking Trail takes a step forward at Hat Head (see page 53)
• Flood Recovery team formed making flood
assessments • Kerb-side collection after floods at Smithtown and Jerseyville villages • Boyters Lane thrives from partnership with Landcare and Correctional Centre • Nestle to financially help finish Korogoro Creek path at Hat Head (see page 53) • Success in bringing Reduce Risk Increase Student Knowledge (RRISK) to Kempsey
MARCH 2013
• Future Jobs Expo held in Kempsey (see page 54)
• Bypass opening (see page 57) • Landcare Award partnership with MOP crews and Council • Primary producers flood recovery funding announced • Landfill accepted flood damaged goods • Talks on Bike Safety held with Pre-Schools • International Women’s Day exhibition Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
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The Year in review
conT.
APRIL 2013
• Kempsey Show - Council provided information stand • Flood Recovery Outreach Programs held • B Doubles currently accepted in CBD • South Kempsey Water Infrastructure grant of $800,000 (see page 53) • Implemented the Drinksafe program throughout the Shire • Youth Week successfully held events and activities
MAY 2013
• Assessing our footpaths and roads using hi-tech vehicles (see page 93) • Anna Shields newly elected Councillor in by-election after resignation of Jim Gribbin • Partnership with Port Macquarie-Hastings Council for graffiti removal • Community of Kundabung winners through Healthy Communities • Macleay Valley Community Art Gallery records its 39,000th visitor
JUNE 2013
During the year, Council has been a part of many varied events. Some detailed highlights below:
• New Jewish burial site at Frederickton Cemetery consecrated by Rabbi (see page 79) • Council’s new solar power system cutting costs for Council Depot • World Environment Day waste education presentation to the public • The first Motor Bike Safety Education program held (see page 77)
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Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
Development Assessment Economic Sustainability Regulatory Compliance Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
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394
Building inspections carried out
423
Complaints regarding stray dogs were responded to
725
Properties were inspected for weed infestations
Fast Facts
191
Customer requests responded to regarding barking dogs
1,946
289
Certificates issued for 149s
Inspections undertaken on food premises
444
1,675
Development applications approved with a value of $37,773,330
Customer requests received regarding Ranger Services
252
860
Construction certificates approved
Inspections of onsite sewerage management systems carried out
105
605
Customer requests received regarding environmental issues
Environmental health inspections were undertaken
Janet Hayes Memorial, South Kempsey
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Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
760
543
6,346
370
3,000
121
1,090
41
Inspections on private properties were undertaken in regard to weed infestations
Trees (tubes) planted at the Sherwood Rehabilitation Project
Lomandras planted at Steuart McIntyre Dam Erosion Control Project
Trees planted at Upper Belmore River Rehabilitation Project site
Dogs and cats impounded. 80 dogs and cats returned to owners and 77 rehoused
Dogs and cats were contained and collected within 6 hours
Customer requests responded to regarding development/building matters
Abandoned vehicles dealt with
241
Responses to customer requests regarding overgrown land
72
Responses to customer requests regarding the dumping of rubbish
110
Work orders in relation to control of livestock on roads were responded to
450
Trees planted at Boyters Lane, Jerseyville Little Bay at Arakoon Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
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Major Achievements - Sustainable Environment • Completion of Kempsey Corridor Master Plan – completed in August 2012 the Master Plan highlights 30 key projects to be undertaken along the former Pacific Highway corridor between South Kempsey and Frederickton as part of the revitalisation of Kempsey, South Kempsey and Frederickton as a result of the Pacific Highway bypass opening in March 2013. • Janet Hayes Memorial Place – project direction for the design and construction at Gills Bridge Creek Reserve, South Kempsey. • Draft Kempsey LEP 2012 – following extensive public consultation and information sessions the Draft Kempsey LEP 2012 has been endorsed by Council for final sign off by the Minster for Planning and Infrastructure. This has been on Council’s Strategic Planning Program for the past 6 years. Expected to be finalised by December 2013. • Sherwood Borefields Project – Funded by Coastal Management Authority. • Regional Landcare partnership award (partnership with Macleay Landcare, MOP team and Council). Crews commenced working on three Council project sites, Gills, Boyters and Jerseyville, called the MOP crews. • $35,000 Destination NSW funding for the Macleay Valley Coast destination branding and marketing campaign. • Upper Belmore River Riparian Rehabilitation Project – 1,000 tonne of woody weeds removed and destroyed from project site. Planted 1,200 native trees within five project site locations along the Upper Belmore River foreshore. (See page 56) • Council was successful in receiving a total of $25,465 in Local Heritage Grants for owners who were also required to contribute towards the cost of repairs and/or upgrades for: - Kempsey Showground - Old Post Office, Frederickton - Homewood, Nulla Nulla - Willawarrin Hotel - All Saints Catholic Church Hall, West Kempsey.
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Kempsey Showground
Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
SUSTAINABLE
Akubra Muster event November 9
2012 Major Achievements - Sustainable Environment • $800,000 State Government funding to support the provision of essential water infrastructure through the South Kempsey employment corridor. • Kempsey Airport business case to release $2m Federal Government funding for essential infrastructure upgrade as part of the Regional Centre for Aviation Excellence initiative. • Completed Coastal Hazard Assessment (Stage 1) as part of the preparation of the Coastal Hazard Management Plan. • Land rezoned for potential Highway Service Centre, South Kempsey - An LEP amendment to enable a Highway Service Centre on land in South Kempsey was processed and endorsed by Council. The Minister has now made the plan. This makes way for the possibility of two service centres, one northbound one southbound, to service the southern interchange post Bypass. • The Swimming Pools Amendment Act 2012 commenced on 29 October 2012 and makes a number of amendments to the Swimming Pools Act 1992 designed to enhance the safety of children under the age of five years around private (backyard) swimming pools in NSW. Council staff created a new fact sheet regarding the new Swimming Pool Legislation and it was made available on Council’s website in April 2013. • Korogora Creek Walkway, Carpark and Signage Upgrade - Partnership with Hat Head Fishing Club who undertook planting. • A development application at Nestlé, Smithtown for alterations and additions to an existing factory was approved in September 2012. The current plant employs 131 staff on the site and manufactures the iconic Milo drink. With the new development Nestlé will become the production hub for the Café Menu Range. There is likely to be several new employment operations with the new range.
Nestle factory at Smithtown
Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
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Major Achievements - Sustainable Environment • Akubra Muster Guinness World Record achieved on November 9, 2012, with 1,912 people creating world history on the bank of the Macleay River in front of a live television audience of 350,000 Sunrise morning program viewers across Australia.
• $15,000 Destination NSW funding for the ‘Race, Stay, Play’ tourism promotion for 2012 Kempsey Cup, including the www.racestayplay.com.au website. • $25,600 Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations (DEEWR) funding to: - Investigate future job growth areas for the Macleay, - Launch a Future Jobs Kempsey Careers Expo held in Smith St Kempsey (with 40 exhibitors participating) and - Create the www.futurejobskempsey.com.au website to offer companies and job-seekers a one-stopshop to local employment and training. • Event support and coordination of the 2013 NSW Surf Lifesaving Country Championships, hosted by South West Rocks. • Business Plan for Kempsey Regional Saleyards, in conjunction with the Saleyards Advisory Group (to be released in the second half of 2013). • $20,000 State Government funding application in conjunction with the Australian Retailers Association to bring ARA training to Kempsey retailers. • $25,000 DEEWR funding application to scope indigenous bush food business opportunity and model in collaboration with Business for Millennium Development and local Aboriginal stakeholders. • $35,000 Destination NSW funding to rebrand and market the Macleay Valley through a Destination Marketing Strategy (to be launched August 2013). • Launch of the Macleay Valley Welcome Pack for new businesses (December 2012). • Development of a Macleay Valley tourism profile and Destination Management Plan (in collaboration with North Coast Destination Network).
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Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
Major Achievements - Sustainable Environment • Rehabilitation of Gills Bridge Creek – As part of the NSW Environmental Trust funded Gills Bridge Creek Project, Council hosted a tree planting event in May with the students from South Kempsey and East Kempsey primary schools and members of the Gill Family. Over 350 trees were planted including 85 koala food trees which will contribute to the restoration and enhancement of ecosystems and habitats. The trees for the project were grown at South Kempsey Community nursery as part of a partnership with Macleay Landcare. • Land rezoned to allow residential land release, North Kempsey - An LEP amendment to rezone land for residential land release in North Kempsey was processed and endorsed by Council. The Minister has now endorsed the plan.
Challenges • Meeting the need for greater productivity within a fixed or declining resourcing environment. • Legislative and Policy changes are constant challenges for Natural Resource Management and Strategic Planning Projects. The Standard Instrument Order 2006, and the amendments to the Standard Instrument, have been a major factor in the length of time required to complete the Draft Kempsey LEP 2012. • Maintaining required high levels of output with comparatively few staff resources – this is also an enjoyable challenge. • State and Federal recognition of unique economic issues facing regional Australia, and reflection of these in policy and funding priorities. • Working with industry to address issues associated with escalating operating costs, particularly businesses within the manufacturing sector. • Enhancing profitability and profit potential of Council owned assets, including airport and saleyards. • Putting in place appropriate infrastructure and providing defined incentives to attract new businesses and industries to the Macleay Valley. • Accurately measuring and managing the longer term employment impacts of the Pacific Highway Bypass. • Working effectively with the local business community to create a vibrant, prosperous and competitive environment attractive to investors.
Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
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Project Site No2 - After replanting working-bee (Dec 2012)
The Upper Belmore river riparian rehaBiliTaTion projecT For many years the Upper Belmore River and foreshore area has experienced a range of degrading processes that has imposed significant impacts on the foreshore landscapes, aquatic environments and riparian corridor ecological values. During the development of the Upper Belmore River Floodplain Management Strategy 2000 a number of issues of concern for landholders and other interest groups were raised, including weed infestation, lack of native riparian vegetation, riverbank erosion, obstructions to water hydraulic flows and poor environmental water quality. Recognising these issues and adopting a consensus-based approach, landholders connected to the project site in partnership with Kempsey Shire Council and prepared a guide to implement remediation and rehabilitation measures. This environmental rehabilitation project includes strategies and actions to address weed management, re-establishment of native vegetation, abate riverbank erosion and return natural hydraulic flow regimes within the Upper Belmore River. The aim is increasing native ecological biodiversity, improving environmental water quality parameters, and fostering improved landscape aesthetic values. Landholder/Project Achievements to-date: Over the last 12 months Upper Belmore River landholderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s efforts have resulted in: 1) Removal and destruction of over 1,000 tonne of woody weeds from within the project site. Further weed eradication activities are planned for the coming months 2) Planting over 1,200 native trees within 5 Project Site locations along the Upper Belmore River foreshore 3) Removing earthen and vegetation blockages within the Upper Belmore River to improve tidal flows, aquatic habitat values and water quality, and 4) Repair and rehabilitation of a number of riverbank erosion sites. 56
Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
Kempsey Bypass open day
KeMpSey bypASS STrATegy And KeMpSey corridor MASTer plAn Our story, Our place, Our future In August 2012 Council placed the Kempsey Corridor Master Plan, “Our story, Our place, Our future” on exhibition. The Master Plan was prepared in response to the earlier Kempsey Bypass Strategy, which had outlined key actions to be undertaken to prepare for the opening of the Pacific Highway bypass of South Kempsey, Kempsey and Frederickton. After further consultation with the community the Master Plan was adopted in February 2013. The Pacific Highway Bypass of Kempsey was officially opened on 27 March 2013. The Master Plan aimed to establish an urban design model for the corridor with particular emphasis on the villages of South Kempsey and Frederickton, and the town centre of Kempsey. The objectives are to achieve: • A framework for the revitalisation of the retail economy of the Kempsey town centre and the villages of South Kempsey and Frederickton • Fresh opportunities for innovative business and job creation opportunities • Conservation of the natural and cultural environmental heritage along the corridor, and • Improvements to the urban environment for the long term wellbeing of the community. The Kempsey Corridor Master Plan outlined key projects to be undertaken along the former highway corridor between South Kempsey and Frederickton to revitalise and improve the town and village centres. These include: • Upgrading of the Smith Street retail precinct in Kempsey with new angle parking arrangements completed in June 2013 • Detail design of urban landscape and streetscape improvements to Smith Street, Kempsey and Lachlan Street, South Kempsey • Further improvements to the boat ramp park at Frederickton to improve the usability for the community. With the completion of the Kempsey Bypass stage of the Pacific Highway upgrade, the focus now shifts to the 26 kilometre Frederickton to Eungai stage, due for completion in early 2016. Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
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Our Future - Sustainable Environment Plans for the next 12 months • Completion of the Frederickton Master Plan and Development Control Plan • Completion of the South Kempsey Corridor Master Plan implementation program • Review of Council’s s94 Developer Contribution Plans • Completion of the Kempsey Wayfinding and Signage Strategy
• Ensure suitable infrastructure for business owners exists • Increasing value in local business • Maximising opportunities from the bypass • Supporting increased levels of educational attainment • Encourage tourist visitation • Build returns from agriculture
Belgrave Street, Kempsey
Long Term Plans - 5 Years • Continuing implementation of the Kempsey Corridor Master Plan • Sustainable long-term job growth and developing an appropriately skilled labour market • Expanding the Macleay’s tourism sector and diversify its agriculture sector
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Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
Measuring our Performance - Sustainable Environment
East Kempsey Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
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Measuring our Performance - Sustainable Environment
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Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
Measuring our Performance - Sustainable Environment Ongoing:-
Regulatory Compliance/ Development Assessment
Buildings are certified to ensure compliance with the Building Code of Australia Annual Fire Safety Certificates will be issued for Class 1 and 9 buildings Demolition approvals Dilapidated buildings Disabled access Applications for development will be assessed in accordance with the requirements of the EP&A Act Administration of the Companion Animals Act in respect to stray cats and dogs, dangerous and nuisance dog declarations Impounding of companion animals, cattle and horses and abandoned vehicles Patrolling and beach driving Disposal of dead animals on public land Parking patrols Illegal camping patrol Rubbish dumping investigations and clean up Overgrown blocks Unauthorised development Development not in accordance with consent Operating septic system without approval Swimming Pools Act inspections Food Act inspections Noise complaints Air quality complaints Water quality complaints Food labelling Food-borne illness complaints Food hawkers licensing Adulterated food complaints Public Health Act inspections
Gladstone, NSW
Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
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Measuring our Performance - Sustainable Environment Killick Creek Estuary Management Plan (EMP) Strategy D – Installation of leaky pits – (COMPLETED) Implementation was completed with the installation of pits in conjunction with the Reserve Road reconstruction project. There are no additional pits identified for installation, however, the use of similar techniques will be considered for any future upgrades to the stormwater disposal system in Crescent Head. Strategy K - Continue trials of improved backswamp management with targeted education of agricultural landholders. (Due December 2012) (COMMENCED) Negotiations have commenced with landholders connected to the Sillitoe Drain – Belmore River, to undertake a backswamp management project with the project to commence in September 2013. Strategy N – Restore entrance training wall – (Due April 2013) (COMPLETED) Project planning was completed with the on-ground works component completed in April 2013. Strategy T - Rezone Killick Creek waterway to ‘Environmental Protection’ as part of the Kempsey LEP review to reflect the environmental significance of the estuary – (Due May 2013) (COMPLETED) The Standard LEP has now been adopted by Council with gazettal to coincide with adoption of the Comprehensive DCP in late 2013. In respect to input from Council, this action is deemed to be completed. Document was placed on public exhibition – six public information sessions held in December, including a special meeting for those affected by E2 Environmental Conservation Zoning. Three information sessions held in January 2013, including one special workshop for consultants. Korogoro Creek EMP Management Issue 4 - Bank erosion on southern creek banks between the traffic bridge and the footbridge – (July 2012) (COMPLETED) Rock fillet walls have been constructed to protect the southern bank. A second bank erosion control program commenced upon receipt of funding from the Northern Rivers Catchment Management Authority (NRCMA) with on ground completed in December 2012. Management Issue 8 - Remediate damage to Coastal Saltmarsh Endangered Ecological Community on the southern creek bank foreshore – (June 2016) (COMPLETED) Traffic control measures, including bollards and hardstand parking areas have been constructed to prevent uncontrolled access to saltmarsh flats. The final stage of the pedestrian walkway is now completed. Management Issue 9 – Restore aquatic and terrestrial habitats in conjunction with the Hat Head Fishing Club – (June 2016) (COMMENCED) A mangrove rock fillet construction planned as a component of the funding received from the NRCMA was completed in December 2012. Management Issue 18 - Raise community awareness of estuarine processes as a component of pedestrian education walkway – (December 2012) (COMPLETED) Primary environmental interpretive signage has been completed and installed, with secondary awareness signs installed. Macleay River EMP Strategy 2 - Investigate further changes to the drainage infrastructure in the Belmore and Kinchela Swamps that could increase water retention and reduce groundwater drawdown - (June 2016) (COMMENCED)
This strategy has commenced with the Scotts Drain and Sillitoe Drain projects with works on the Sillitoe Drain due to commence in September 2013. Strategy 2 - Improve water quality for ecosystem health, oyster aquaculture and recreation (Clybucca, Swan Pool and Frogmore Acid Sulfate Soil (ASS), drain and backswamp management) (COMMENCED) A second Environmental Trust funding application was submitted to commence investigations towards Strategy 2 which was unsuccessful. Strategy 3 – Coordinate, prioritise and implement drainage projects (COMMENCED)
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Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
Measuring our Performance - Sustainable Environment Macleay River EMP Cont. Commenced with Scott Drain and Sillitoe Drain projects with works on Sillitoe project to commence in September 2013. Strategy 4 – Active management of floodgates (COMMENCED) Strategy 7 - Submit funding applications for water management improvements in the CollombattiClybucca drainage scheme (COMMENCED) A second Environmental Trust funding application was submitted to commence investigations towards Strategy 2 which was unsuccessful. Strategy 18 - Submit funding applications to improve the riparian corridor to address bank erosion (Kinchela to Jerseyville) – (June 2015) (COMPLETED) A second Environmental Trust funding application has been submitted which was successful with works to commence in September/October 2013. Strategy 24 – Monitoring and reporting ecological health (COMMENCED) Water quality monitoring is undertaken at locations within the Shire’s creeks, rivers and beaches on a weekly basis. Council has also commenced preparations to coordinate monitoring under a regional Ecohealth Program which is funded from the Environmental Levy and Septic Systems annual charges with a meeting planned for early September 2013. Boyters Lane Wetland Rehabilitation Plan Maintenance of vegetation Areas B, C & D – (May 2013) (ONGOING) Activities commenced with participation of schools and the use of the Mobile Outreach Program (Kempsey Correctional Centre). Community education walkway Stage 1 - Design – (May 2013) (COMMENCED) The location of the proposed walkway has been determined, however, the detailed design has been delayed, pending the outcome of investigations as to what should be done with the tidal berm, which has deteriorated significantly and will determine final design options. ANU was appointed to undertake the investigations with repair to Teal Lagoon scheduled to commence in October 2013. Gills Bridge Creek Rehabilitation Plan - Supplementary Management Plan Management Action 18.17 – Education and promotion – (COMMENCED) Fact sheets and information pamphlets have been produced along with six newsletters and updated information on Council’s website. Management Action 18.0 - Maintenance of vegetation management 1, 2 & 3 (COMMENCED) An Environmental Trust Funded Project in Management Zone 5 is now completed. Work will continue to seek to engage the businesses and broader community to undertake some stewardship of the land, and works. Upper Belmore Riparian Project Submit funding application based on project implementation strategy – (August 2012) (COMPLETED) Funding has been received from the Federal Government’s Biodiversity Program. The project is well developed with 4 landholder working-bees completed. Floods have damaged past works and the project will need to be re-evaluated to determine what works need reinstatement. Coastal Management Study Submit funding application to NSW Coastal Program (August 2012) (COMPLETED) An application was submitted to the 2012/13 program, whereby Council was successful in receiving $50,000. Consultants have been engaged and CZM study and plan has commenced. Sherwood Borefields Rehabilitation Project Submit funding application – (December 2012) (COMPLETED) $164,000 has been obtained through the Federal Government Biodiveristy Program with on-ground works revegetation and weed control activities continuing in accordance with funding agreement.
Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
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Measuring our Performance - Sustainable Environment Saltwater Creek and Lagoon EMP Strategy N – water quality monitoring of key recreational areas (COMMENCED) Water quality monitoring is included in the monthly program. Poor water quality is a trigger for artificially opening the creek in accordance with the Saltwater Creek EMP. Berm survey - (June 2013) (COMMENCED) Regular surveys of the berm are undertaken which have confirmed that the berm fluctuates in height from 0.9mAHD to a maximum height of 1.8mAHD in accordance with the assumptions of the Saltwater Creek Flood Study. Local Climate Change Adaptation Plan Provide development controls and/or incentives which encourage/ maximise on-site water harvesting in all new development. Consider using development incentives - (April 2013) (COMMENCED) Water Sensitive Urban Design (WSUD) principles have been included in DCP Saltwater and will also be included in the draft Comprehensive DCP. As reported to Council at its August 2013 meeting in relation to the Comprehensive DCP, a draft WSUD Chapter has been prepared that will be reported to Council separately as it involves the introduction of new controls. Kempsey Local Growth Management Strategy Complete Rural Residential Land Release Strategy - (October 2013) (COMMENCED) The draft strategy is on public exhibition from 27 August to 10 October 2013 and is programmed to be completed in October 2013. However, it is unlikely to be completed before February or March 2014, to allow time for the Department of Planning to comment, work through issues, assess submissions, revise document and report back to Council. Crescent Head Expansion LES/LEP – (December 2014) (COMMENCED) At its February 2013 meeting, Council resolved to prepare a fresh planning proposal and to request DoPI to issue a Gateway Determination. The Planning Proposal was completed and forwarded to DoPI in March 2013. As reported to Council, the Gateway Determination has now been issued and a draft brief has been prepared which is likely to be issued late September if matters raised by the Office of Environment and Heritage (OEH) are finalised. Industrial Land Review Implementation Preparation of LEPs to rezone land for industrial purposes at South Kempsey - (December 2013) (COMMENCED)
This is a developer-funded project with Council contributing towards the cost of investigations. The developer previously requested that Council defer appointment of a flooding consultant, however, the developer requested recommencement of the Flood Study in August 2013 and a request for an extension will need to be obtained from the DoPI. The landowner will need to provide justification as to why no progress was made as the last extension was granted on the basis of providing a clear and rigid timetable for completion, which has not been adhered to. Standard LEP Exhibit and complete Standard LEP – (May 2013) (COMMENCED) The draft LEP was placed on exhibition with 41 submissions received which were reported to Council in June 2013, whereby Council resolution to request the Minister to make the plan, subject to minor changes. The section 68 submission has been completed, and the DoPI are now seeking a legal opinion on the draft document. It is expected that the Standard LEP will be completed in late December 2013. South West Rocks DCP Complete traffic study for Seascape Grove/Saltwater precinct – (December 2012) (COMPLETED) A report from consultants Cardno has been received and reviewed with a final report received in November 2012. Council is awaiting payment of 50% of the cost of the study from the developer, prior to releasing the study.
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Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
Measuring our Performance - Sustainable Environment South West Rocks DCP - Investigate acquisition for link road – (December 2012) (COMPLETED) Engineering design plans have been prepared and the MOU was endorsed by Council and the developer in mid-2012. Actual acquisition is subject to amendment to the Part 3A approval of the adjoining subdivision and amendment of the SWR Contributions Plan. Amendment to the SWR Contributions Plan has commenced with the Part 3A modification approved by DoPI on 6 August 2013. Comprehensive Koala Plan of Management (CKPoM) Implementation of the Koala Management Plan through education program – (ONGOING) Information brochures were sent to all owners of land mapped as containing Koala habitat. A new Koala Sighting Record form has been launched on the Council website. This includes a sound recording of Koalas. Macleay Valley Landcare has received a grant which will assist Council to implement some actions from the CKPOM, mainly being some additional studies.
Koala mural on Kempsey Railway Underpass
Kempsey Bypass Strategy Implementation Political Engagement – (ONGOING) Representations to Ministers and Government departments has been ongoing. Pacific Highway Assets Handover - (December 2013) (ONGOING) Discussions with the RMS and KBA have been ongoing. Urban Design - Streetscape Revitalisation Program - (July 2012) (COMMENCED) At its meeting of February 2013, Council resolved to adopt design concepts for South Kempsey and Frederickton, including Option C for the Kempsey CBD to form the basis of a detailed design brief. Community consultation and /or community involvement/information – (ONGOING) (COMMENCED) Extensive community consultation has been undertaken, including numerous public meetings, presentations to business and community groups as well as schools. Economic strategy for Highway dependent businesses – (April 2013) (COMMENCED) A draft “Future Kempsey” strategy has been prepared identifying several key actions aimed at reducing the economic impact of the Bypass, including the Kempsey Corridor Masterplan. A survey of local businesses located along the former Pacific Highway corridor has been prepared and will be conducted during September 2013. The data from this survey will be used to inform the ‘Future Kempsey’ strategy by providing a measure of economic impact. Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
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Measuring our Performance - Sustainable Environment Land Use Strategy – (December 2013) (COMMENCED) A draft DCP for the South Kempsey Enterprise Corridor is being prepared for which design concepts are required, prior to reporting the draft to Council to endorse for the purposes of public exhibition. Innovation Strategies and Future Kempsey – (December 2013) (COMMENCED) Actions that are being implemented in advance of finalising the Future Kempsey strategy include: Future Jobs Kempsey – comprising ‘Workforce Projections to 2021 Kempsey LGA February 2013’ research report, Jobs Expo was held in Smith Street on 27 March 2013, and online jobs portal went live on the same day. ARA Retail Training – involving 14 local retailers with workshop dates rescheduled to be held between March and June 2013 due to the floods. South Kempsey Infrastructure (water) Project – involving the submission of an application for State Government funding and discussions with potential commercial partners. Deed of Agreement signed and submitted to State Government for release of the $800,000 funding grant. Voluntary Planning Agreements currently being drafted for private contributions. Create a KSC Assets Portfolio – (to commence in August 2013) Council’s database has been used to identify and classify all Council owned land to identify holdings that may have commercial potential. Kempsey Airport – develop and finalise business plan – (June 2013) (COMMENCED) The progress of this action, including the development of detailed engineering designs, was reported to Council at its meeting of October 2012, whereby Council resolved to reaffirm its commitment to the Mid North Coast Regional Aviation Centre of Excellence Plan for the upgrading of Kempsey Airport. A draft Business Plan was submitted with the grant funding application on 1 March 2013. The Federal Government confirmed the release of the $2m grant in mid-August 2013. The State Government has also expressed interest in providing funding to ensure Kempsey Airport is viable for large-scale development. Kempsey Airport – develop prospectus and launch to target markets – (March 2013) (COMPLETED) A prospectus based on the Mid North Coast Regional Aviation Centre of Excellence Plan for the upgrading of Kempsey Airport was developed and advertised nationally. In addition to the press campaign, 35 aviation businesses located along the NSW East Coast from Bankstown in the south to the Gold Coast in the north, were contacted to assess their interest in the Kempsey redevelopment and obtain current market feedback on opportunities and barriers for the aviation industry. Macleay Valley Coastal Holiday Parks – review and report internally regarding marketing and feesetting components of management contract – (June annually) (COMMENCED) In accordance with the management contract for the parks, draft fee proposals are required to be submitted to Council by 30 March each year. The draft fee proposal for 2013 - 14 was discussed with the contractors and presented to Council when considering the 2013-2014 Fees and Charges Schedule. Ongoing monthly meetings have been held with agenda addressing issues relating to general marketing and setting of fees. Contractors have requested the development of business plans for the parks to provide them with some strategic direction in relation to infrastructure investment, input to concept plans and to maximise investment and return at each park.
Stuarts Point Caravan Park
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Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
Measuring our Performance - Sustainable Environment Kempsey Regional Saleyards – Prepare a Business Plan – (August 2013) (COMMENCED) The draft Financial Modelling report was received from the consultants in October 2012, reviewed internally and considered by the SAG in December 2012 with feedback provided to the consultants. In response to the feedback a further draft was provided in January 2013, which was finalised in February 2013 and was considered by the SAG in March 2013. A draft business plan has been prepared and was considered by the SAG at meetings in August and September 2013. It is intended to complete the draft plan and submit a report to Council to provide direction in relation to several fundamental assumptions that will underpin the plan. Develop Bypass Economic Strategy in consultation with local business and industry stakeholders and partner organisations – (April 2013) (See “Kempsey Bypass Strategy Implementation”) Implement Bypass Economic Strategy (Retail Ribbon) in collaboration with key partners (TAFE/Australian Retailers Association) and funding organisations – March 2013 (March 2013) (COMPLETED)
ARA Retail Training involving 14 local retailers was rescheduled to be held between March and June 2013 due to the floods. Completed June 2013. Acquire economic modelling software to inform economic development strategy by identifying and demonstrating strongest areas of economic return – (June 2012) (COMPLETED) This action was completed by June 2012. Update KSC photo library (tourism, business/industry, bypass) for future tourism/business marketing/council assets promotion) – (COMPLETED) This action was completed in June 2012. Secure NBN roll-out date – (COMPLETED) Timeframes for the roll-out were confirmed in July 2012. Fixed wireless towers are currently under construction with Kempsey named in the second three-year rollout due to be implemented in mid2015. Strengthen higher education and professional job opportunities for Macleay Valley students and residents – (COMMENCED) Discussions for a Kempsey university campus have been held with a proposal lodged with the NSW State Government which is currently being assessed. Undertake research with local businesses to see what is impacting on their decisions about future investment in the local area to identify issues that need resolution to encourage investment – (May 2013) (COMMENCED) This action has commenced with the Future Jobs Kempsey project with contributory funding from Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations (DEEWR) – comprising ‘Workforce Projections to 2021 Kempsey LGA February 2013’ research report (currently being reviewed internally), Jobs Expo held in Smith Street on March 27, and online jobs portal that went live on the same day. The next step is to develop a strategy around how this data and information can best be utilised. This data will be extracted via the Pacific Highway Bypass survey. Promote the business opportunities within the Shire to encourage investment – (COMMENCED)
A Welcome Pack, produced at no cost to Council in conjunction with AIM Publications, was launched in December 2012 to the business community, generating significant positive publicity. The Welcome Pack is now on Council’s website and is a useful tool to promote the Macleay as a great place to do business. The redevelopment of the www.macleayvalleycoast.com.au website includes a major portal to business and investment, providing Council with a new dynamic tool to market its economic development information. Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
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Measuring our Performance - Sustainable Environment Review and update 2009 Tourism Strategy, including audit of achievements to date – (COMMENCED)
The 2013-2015 Macleay Valley Coast Destination Management Plan is undergoing final review and will be launched alongside the new Macleay Valley Coast branding and marketing campaign in mid-October, 2013. Review current tourism model (structure and funding/financial) including VIC services – (COMMENCED)
In February 2013 Council hosted a Macleay Valley Tourism Round Table attended by 25 industry representatives from a range of major tourism-related sectors and businesses, including the Executive of the Macleay Valley Coast Tourism Association. The meeting discussed possible industry-driven models that will be developed and reported to Council, prior to any changes to the current model being formally considered. The recommendation from the Macleay Valley Tourism Industry round table held in February 2013 is for the Macleay to move towards a levy funded model of tourism funding, with the Clarence Valley Model nominated as the preferred model. Develop two major significant events that are unique to the Macleay Valley and have potential for eventual State level events – (COMMENCED) The Race, Stay, Play & Akubra Muster was held on Friday, 9 November 2012. NSW Country Surf Lifesaving Championships have provided a strong case for SWR to host the National Championships.
NSW Country Surf Lifesaving Championships held at South West Rocks
Council has negotiated for Crescent Head to host a major Geocentric Extreme Sport Event in June 2014 to boost tourism. A German Festival was hosted at SWR. Discussions commenced with SWR Chamber to grow this to a major event. Ensure potential tourists are aware of the Macleay Valley through targeted promotions and membership of peak industry bodies – (COMMENCED) Scenic Drives maps were updated, completed, printed and launched in late September 2012. Premium advertising space has been secured at Port Macquarie Airport to promote the Macleay Valley destination. 68
Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
Measuring our Performance - Sustainable Environment Council joined the Legendary Pacific Coast Touring campaign in January 2013. Macleay Valley Coast rebranding and marketing campaign is to be officially launched in mid-October 2013. The campaign includes the development of new ‘Discover Something New’ branding, which is currently being applied across the redeveloped www.macleayvalleycoast.com.au website, as well as Council’s two existing highway billboards, printed brochure, online brochures and other associated marketing collateral.
Ongoing Activities - Sustainable Environment • Buildings are certified to ensure compliance with the Building Code of Australia • Annual Fire Safety Certificates will be issued for Class 1 and 9 buildings • Demolition approvals • Dilapidated buildings • Disabled access • Applications for development will be assessed in accordance with the requirements of the EP&A Act • Administration of the Companion Animals Act in respect to stray cats and dogs, dangerous and nuisance dog declarations • Impounding of companion animals, cattle and horses and abandoned vehicles • Patrolling and beach driving • Disposal of dead animals on public land • Parking patrols • Illegal camping patrol • Rubbish dumping investigations and clean up • Overgrown blocks • Unauthorised development • Development not in accordance with consent • Operating septic system without approval • Swimming Pools Act inspections • Food Act inspections • Noise complaints • Air quality complaints • Water quality complaints • Food labelling • Food-borne illness complaints • Food hawkers licensing • Adulterated food complaints • Public Health Act inspections • Tree Preservation Order complaints • Stock on Roads
Right: Cover of Port Macquarie-Hastings, Kempsey and Nambucca Beach Permit brochure
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Regional State of the Environmental Report Kempsey Shire Council and Northern Rivers Catchment Management Authority (NRCMA) have worked together to prepare a Regional State of the Environment (SOE) Report for 2012. Previously Council has prepared a SOE report each year with a comprehensive report every four years. State agencies were also producing a range of environmental reports for the region. As these reports were independent of each other, they did little to guide environmental management at either a local or state government level. A change to local government reporting requirements Integrated Planning and Reporting has now created an opportunity to form a partnership with Local and State Government to develop a more integrated and regional approach to environmental reporting. The regional SOE involves 12 Councils and 3 County Councils from Port Macquarie-Hastings in the south to Tweed in the north. This collaborative report will assess both local and regional environmental state, using a set of indicators and measures specifically designed for the region. The Regional SOE Report has 3 main goals: 1. To meet the reporting requirements of the Local Government Act 1993; 2. To provide information to the community and decision-makers on the condition of the local environment and where resources are best placed to respond to community expectations; and 3. To better align with State Natural Resource Management (NRM) reporting.
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The indicators developed for the report cover four key themes which are: • biodiversity / vegetation • soils / land use • water and • people and the environment. A further 18 resource categories have been developed for the key indicators. The project aims to produce a useful, informative and streamlined report that informs both local councils and state government agencies about the current condition of the environment at a regional and local level. With the next SOE report due in 2016, this report will act as a baseline of environmental condition which can be used for comparison. The new regional State of the Environment Report will provide more meaningful data for Council to make informed decisions in terms of the Environmental Objectives in Community Strategic Plans. The SOE report is available at Council’s Customer Service Centre, the Kempsey Library and on Councils website www.kempsey.nsw.gov.au
Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
Companion Animals Information Activities relating to enforcing and ensuring compliance with the Companion Animals Act and Regulation: Council spent $21,868 (excluding Rangers Salaries) on direct companion animal management and activities including the operation and maintenance of the pound, together with the employment of two rangers, whose major responsibility is companion animal issues, and associated management costs. All brochures regarding companion animals are available on Council’s website and in Council’s Customer Service Centre. Rangers speak with dog owners whilst carrying out patrols and conduct registration inspections. Council works with the RSPCA and local vets for customers to take up the offer of a $100 voucher from the RSPCA to de-sex an animal when giving
it a home, which then allows the customer to have the animal registered at a reduced rate. Council has an updated photo system of impounded animals on its website. This allows individuals and breed specific groups to monitor animals that may become available for rehousing. Council Rangers have a close relationship with local RSPCA officers which also aids with the re-housing of suitable animals. Council has leash free areas in most of its towns and villages. The designated areas are detailed in Council’s off leash brochure. Council spent $27,136 of Companion Animal Fund money for management and control of companion animals in this area. During 2012-2013 there have been 15 dog attacks reported in the Shire.
Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
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SUSTAINABLE
LOOKING
AFTER OUR
ENVIRONMENT
Korogora Creek walkway
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Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
Hat Head aerial photograph
Community Relations Service Delivery
Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
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40,054
Phone calls fielded by the Customer Services Team
13,910
People attended Customer Services
3,167
Participants in community consultations
125,511
Visitors to the libraries
187,832 Items borrowed from Councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s libraries
50,640
Visitors to Information Centres
35
Exhibitions held at Macleay Valley Community Art Gallery
Fast Facts
41,750 Hourly services provided to the aged population
Marruma Wutu Gila (Make Plenty Auntie) Stitching Group
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Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
21 Households particpated in
Street Share as part of Healthy Communities
924
People participating in group programs
200
People participated in the 10,000 Step Challenge
80
People attended Food Growing Workshops hosted by Healthy Communities
5
Residents supported in the Certificate lll in Fitness
1 Resident completed Certificate lV in Fitness
129 Residents attended CPR Mate training Participants in the Frederickton HEALâ&#x201E;˘ program Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
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COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Civic Centre
About Community Engagement Building a strong community is a key outcome for Council. Community wellbeing is influenced by participation in community, cultural and recreation activities, access to facilities and community information. Engaging all parts of our diverse community is the focus for the Community Engagement team. To have a bright, vibrant and growing community we need the input from all aspects with different ideas and hopes for the future.
Major Achievements - Community Engagement
RRISK (Reduce Risk Increase Student Knowledge) Council was successful in negotiating RRISK Training for Year 11 students to be held in Kempsey in November 2013. Traineeships/degrees completed • Successful completion of Certificate III in Business by a Customer Service Trainee • Macleay Community Care Options – 12 staff completed Certificate IV in Aged Care • Library staff member completed Graduate Diploma in Library and Information Management. Productivity improvements and initiatives • Established a Regional Call centre to support neighbouring local government areas and residents during the February and March flooding event. • Extension of the SMS mobile distribution list to the businesses in the Central Business District to provide information on flooding. Volunteers • Over 200 people volunteer at the Visitor Information Centres, Council libraries and Community Care Options. • The fifteen 355 Committees of Council are supported by 150 volunteers. “Memory Van” through the Department of Health and Ageing The van promoted Alzheimer disease as being a major concern in the older population and provided information and resources to those attending. Healthy Communities There were two garden open days held in partnership with the Healthy Communities Program. Kempsey Family Community Centre The Centre was able to coordinate a visit from Phil Pettitt of the Royal Botanical Gardens as part of a Housing NSW partnership. Youth Week 2013 successfully held. 76
Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Community Newsletters Issued
3 Major Achievements - Community Engagement Drinksafe Program Implemented the Drinksafe program throughout the Shire. Partnership with Port Macquarie-Hastings Council Commenced resource sharing partnership with neighbouring Port Macquarie-Hastings Council providing graffiti removal in their area. Work undertaken by Kempsey Shire staff and volunteers. Motor Bike Safety Education program This successful program was held in response to concerns of children riding their motorbikes on the roads illegally without safety equipment. A partnership with NSW Police and the local Motorbike Club was established where a day program taught children safety and grant funding provided safety equipment.
Motor Bike Program, Greenhills Speedway
Challenges Building a resilient community To successfully work with individuals, community, government and non-government organisations to build a community that responds positively to adversity. Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
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‘Roof oveR ouR Heads’ pRoject The Kempsey Family Community Centre, a Housing NSW initiative managed by Kempsey Shire Council and funded by Community Services through Community Builders, developed and completed the ‘Roof Over our Heads’ project. The project involved engaging interested people from the Kempsey area in creating a film that would become a tool in reducing homelessness in the Macleay through the education of prospective renters in how to effectively sustain a tenancy whether it be social housing or private rental accommodation. The target groups are those who currently rent or potential renters who would benefit immensely from utilising this exciting new educational tool. The film focuses on young people moving into their own accommodation or adults who may not have previously rented, or who may not fully understand the responsibilities they undertake when signing a rental agreement. Allowing participants to understand the scenarios and then act the scene, helped to create a film that was raw in depicting social issues as they often are and providing an opportunity for professionals who work in these relevant areas to provide expert advice on how to avoid losing accommodation through the breach of a rental contract. The expert direction proved by David Vadiveloo and Danny Teece-Johnson who are filmmakers from Community Prophets - a social justice film company, led to the film engaging community members in broadening their horizons and has contributed to an increase in the self esteem of participants and elevated self confidence through the teaching of new skills that will benefit their community. The film launch took place on 12 February 2013 in the Kempsey Family Community Centre, South Kempsey.
Mural overlooking Services Club Park from a scene in the “Roof Over Our Heads” DVD
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Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
East KEmpsEy CEmEtEry Crown GazEttEs Final approval For Expansion The closure of unformed or ‘paper’ roads allowed Council to offer the community the ongoing option of family burials at this heritage listed cemetery. The Notice of Road Closure in the NSW Government Gazette and the Notice declaring the closed roads be reserved for cemetery purposes was gazetted on Friday 14 September 2012. The cemetery could be accepting burials for a period of approximately 80 years, given some families make reservations for future generations. East Kempsey Cemetery has been the location of many successful capital works in the past few years in preparation for this addition to the cemetery. The most recent of these being the opening of the one way road which weaves through the cemetery, along with: • Community Tree Planting project where 48 advanced Magnolia and Crepe Myrtle trees were planted to form an avenue beside the internal road • Installation of bollards to prevent vehicle access on the new lawn cemetery • Erection of sign posts indicating sections • Established gardens for placement of ashes and plaques • Pedestrian pathways with handrails installed • Establishment of soil storage area and improved drainage.
FrEdEriCKton CEmEtEry to sErvE thE nEEds oF thE GrowinG north Coast JEwish Community
Kempsey Shire Council, in close cooperation with the NSW Jewish Board of Deputies, the Sydney Beth Din (Jewish Religious Court) and the Sydney Chevra Kaddisha (Jewish Burial Society) announced the allocation of a Jewish section at Frederickton Cemetery to serve the needs of the growing North Coast Jewish community. The section is opened, with room for approximately 70 plots surrounded by trees and gardens.
East Kempsey Cemetery Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report Completition of Flagstaff restoration
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Our Future - Community Engagement Plans for the next 12 months Community Safety • Continue to work with NSW Police, State Government agencies and Non-Government organisations to reduce incidents of crime and increase awareness of personal safety. • Coordination and support of the Graffiti Blasters Program for the swift removal of graffiti within the Shire. • Promotion of farm safety. • Educating the community and working with government partners on natural disaster planning for residents. Youth Development • Provide ongoing support to the Youth Advisory Council (YAC). • Investigate youth opportunities including volunteering, career development and training. • Participate with youth and youth organisations in the provision of youth engagement events including Youth Week 2014 and the Macleay River Festival. • Working with schools to encourage more engagement with Council. Aboriginal Development • Continued implementation of the Dreamtime Art and Life Skills Programs. • Partner with Aboriginal organisations for NAIDOC Week and other Aboriginals activities. • Implementation of the Reconciliation Action Plan. • Support and promote the Saltwater Freshwater Festival 2014 celebrating Aboriginal culture in the region. Community Development • Support community events and celebrations including Children’s Week, Senior’s Week, Harmony Day, Volunteer’s Week, NAIDOC Week and Australia Day. • Manage and promote the use and hire of Council’s community halls and centres. • Implementation of the Creative Communities Program within the Shire. • Work with individuals, community, and Government and Non-Government organisations to build community resilience and capacity. • Promote education and engagement to improve quality of life.
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Our Future - Community Engagement Long term plans – 5 years Building an inclusive and resilient community. Working with individuals, community, Government and Non-Government organisations to build a community that responds positively to adversity including natural disasters. Unfunded list project • New IT systems for customer relationship management • Multipurpose Centre for Kempsey • Community Centre at South West Rocks • South West Rocks Library upgrade.
Measuring our Performance - Community Engagement Report on the Council’s performance in relation to access and equity activities to meet residents’ needs outlined in Council’s Management Plan: Children (aged 0-11 years) • Continuing to provide in-kind support for children’s services in the Kempsey Shire. • Continuing to provide lifesavers during school holiday periods on nominated beaches. • Continuing to promote and maintain safe play equipment and environments in Council parks. • Supporting playgroups at the Kempsey Family Community Centre. • Establishment of a community garden at the Kempsey Family Community Centre. • Girls Sporting Program from NSW Sport and Recreation funding at Bellimbopinni, Gladstone, Smithtown and Kinchela primary schools. • Supported Family Fun Day in September as part of Child Protection Week to raise awareness of the need for protecting children and the role individuals and the community play. • Story times for pre-schoolers and Baby Bounce sessions for 0-2 years. • School Holiday programs often in partnership with the Discovery Rangers from National Parks and Wildlife Service. • The Summer Reading program between December and January in partnership with the State Library of NSW. • Supported Primary schools in healthy activities including Walk Safely to School Day in May. • Motorbike safety education program. • Children’s Book Week each August.
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Measuring our Performance - Community Engagement
• ‘Gutsy Challenge’ partnership with schools to educate families in preparing healthy meals and snacks. • Benevolent Society project : ‘Storytelling for Literacy and Connectedness’. The storytelling sessions promote the power of reading and advocate the role of the library in contributing to cohesive communities, over 1,000 community members participated. Young People (aged 12-24 years) • Facilitating and supporting the Youth Advisory Council (YAC). • Facilitation of the Youth Forum in May. • Provided a grant to Kempsey PCYC to provide Youth Week Activities. • Waste Into Art and HSC Art Works Exhibitions held at the Macleay Valley Community Art Gallery. • Continued promotion of the Youth Access Centre for use by youth based organisation and programs. • RRISK – Reduce Risk Increase Students Knowledge program held for Year 11 students in 2012. • Coordinating the Kempsey Medical Sciences Scholarship – providing local year 12 students the opportunity of valuable financial assistance in undertaking university studies in a medical related field. • Introduction of a Youth Arts Awards as part of the Kempsey Shire Art Prize. • Poetry Slam 2012 - a collaborative project between Kempsey Shire Library, South West Rocks Arts Council and the poetry slam organisers, ‘Wordtravels’. • Young Citizen of the Year. Women • Attendance at the Domestic Violence Monitoring Committee meetings to discuss strategies to address domestic violence within our community. • Promotion and involvement in programs relating to women’s safety and wellbeing including White Ribbon Day, International Women’s Day and the Empowering Women’s Workshop. • Promoting equal employment opportunity initiatives in the workplace. • Roof Over Our Heads Project – DVD resource outlining the roles and responsibilities of renting a property. (See page 78) People from culturally and linguistic diverse backgrounds • Providing library resources for people from cultural and linguistic backgrounds. • Assisting the Multicultural Group to have a stall showcasing their culinary skills at the Australia Day Festival. • Development of a blog for multicultural groups about life in the Macleay. Details of activities to develop and promote services and programs that provide for the needs of children. • Holding events such as Harmony Day and NAIDOC Week. • Encouraging Australian citizenship to all residents. • The library’s Mango Languages resource.
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Measuring our Performance - Community Engagement People with disabilities including those with HIV/AIDS • Auspicing Home and Community Care services such as, Neighbour Aid, Community Options and Boronia Gardens programs to assist people with a disability, their families and their carers. • Providing safe pedestrian access and seating facilities and promotion of disabled access in new buildings and public spaces. • Continuing to provide infrastructure for people with disabilities. Older people • Introduction of modified dance mats to elderly residents to assist in fall prevention through improved balance. • Providing financial support for Seniors Week activities. • ‘Cooking Up a Storm’ – short cooking classes for frail aged men. • Providing aged care services through Macleay Community Care Options. • Telstra Connected Seniors classes at the library covered mobile phone usage, email and internet skills. • Vision impaired devices and resources for the community available from library. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People • Continuing to support activities to celebrate NAIDOC and Reconciliation Week. • Council representation on the Dunghutti Aboriginal Justice Group. • Supporting the Marruma Wutu Gila (Make Plenty Auntie) Stitching Group to attend the Saltwater Freshwater Festival in January 2013. This group participates in the Dreamtime Art Program. • Supporting playgroups at the Kempsey Family Community Centre. • Establishment of a community garden at the Kempsey Family Community Centre. • Roof Over Our Heads Project – DVD resource outlining the roles and responsibilities of renting a property. • Supported students attending the veterans Memorial Reconciliation Ceremony in Sydney. • Conducting and supporting programs, such as Storytelling at Wigay Aboriginal Food Park. Men • Provided a grant to the Stuarts Point Men’s Shed for alterations to their shed. • Supported the Boys to Men mentoring program with Mission Australia. • Roof Over Our Heads Project – DVD resource outlining the roles and responsibilities of renting a property. • ‘Cooking Up a Storm’ – short cooking classes for frail aged men.
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Measuring our Performance - Community Engagement
Graffiti removal
Community Safety • Implementing crime prevention and community safety initiatives such as the motorbike program and 16 days of Activism for Domestic Violence awareness. • Ongoing support for the Macleay Valley Liquor Accord. • Continued support of the Graffiti Blasters in the swift removal of tags from Shire infrastructure and buildings. • Support the Community Drug Action Team (CDAT).
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Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
Measuring our Performance - Community Engagement
Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
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Library Services Tech classes for seniors Kempsey Library was fortunate to obtain funding through Telstra to run a series of workshops aimed at improving the technology skills of older community members. The classes covered basic mobile phone use, as well as accessing the internet and setting up an email account. Over 120 participants attended a total of 20 classes, over a ten month period. At the end of the classes, the library was able to give away a new Telstra handset to one lucky participant.
Exhibition to surprise and stimulate One of Kempsey Library’s most popular exhibitions this year was ‘No Names, Just Numbers’. Subtitled ‘In the shadow of the Kinchela Boys Home’, this extensive display of artworks, historical photographs, family snapshots, sporting achievements and memorabilia gave us a glimpse into the world of those who grew up in the Kinchela Boys Home – Stolen Generation, and provided an opportunity to experience a different perspective. 86
Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
Technical Services Operations Water Process Water Operations Water Strategy Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
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129
Hectares of Open Spaces and Facilities
97
Parks and reserves (77ha)
12
Sporting facilities (43ha)
Fast Facts 5 Patrolled beaches with paid lifeguards through school holidays
31 Playgrounds
4
Public swimming pools
81
266,835 Attendances at patrolled beaches
Responses to parks and gardens requests
270
126
Treated First Aid incidents
Responses to sporting facilities requests
34
371 Responses to requests relating to trees
Significant beach rescues Jacarandas and Flame Tree at Riverside Park
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Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
11,821 Properties managed by water section
615
Kilometres of water mains
5,755
Hydrants and valves
1
11,338
$236m
60
Water Recycling Plant
Service meters
Total value of water supply assets
$1.6m
Total capital investment undertaken to improve the health performance of our water supply systems
1,011
Pumping Stations and Bores
24
Reservoirs
4
Responses to requests relating to water supply
Water Treatment Plants
$192m
6
Total value of sewerage assets
Chemical Dosing Plants
Water main renewal at Paragon Avenue, South West Rocks Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
89
129
Timber bridges
120 Major road culverts totalling 800 lineal metres (in width)
2.95
Kilometres of bridge deck length
156
39
62
701
Kilometres of kerb and guttering
Concrete/composite bridges
Kilometres of footpaths and cycleway
Responses to road maintenance requests
151
$61.5m
$745.1m
364
115
1,052
Responses to signage requests
Total value of Road Assets
Kilometres of regional roads
Total value of bridge assets
Seperate buildings owned by Council
Kilometres of local roads (474km sealed and 578km gravel)
88
Responses to footpath requests Hat Head Bridge
90
Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
INFRASTRUCTURE
$745.1 MILLION
About Infrastructure Services Management of the communityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s assets is a critical Council function. It impacts on our everyday life and enables the community to live, work and play. The development of effective Asset Management Plans and the delivery of prioritised infrastructure replacements has been a key priority throughout 2012-2013. Kempsey Shire Council is like many other local government areas with an expansive infrastructure base covering a large geographical area, much of which is nearing, or past, its effective life. Council has developed an asset management program, on a priority basis, for major infrastructure groups and will now implement and refine this program within the resources available. Further investigation, monitoring and assessment of assets will help Council to refine the Asset Management Plan for secondary infrastructure groups and allow Council to continually reassess the priority areas for action. Areas of responsibility: Parks and recreational areas Roads maintenance and construction Street cleaning Traffic management and safety devices Sporting facilities Bridge maintenance and construction Management of capital works programs Footpaths and cycleways Water and wastewater manangement Public transport infrastructure Airport Signs and linemarking Cattle saleyards Flood mitigation and rural drainage Caravan parks Urban stormwater drainage Lifeguard services Asset planning and investigation Pool operation and maintenance Waste services Property services, acquisitions and leases Waste management facilities
Major Achievements - Infrastructure Services Jobs Cutting Restrictions on traffic using Armidale Road between Bellbrook and Lower Creek were finally lifted in July 2012 with the reopening of Jobs Cutting. This was the first time the road was opened since being damaged during the major flood event in May 2009, allowing heavy vehicles access beyond the cutting for the movement of stock and equipment in the Upper Macleay Valley. The total cost of the restoration project was $1.8m, which was largely funded from the Natural Disaster Relief & Recovery Arrangements (NDRRA). Councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s staff, the contractor and various subcontractors did an excellent job to progress the work with minimal impact upon the community in very difficult conditions. Kempsey Mall Refurbishment Refurbishment of the Clyde Street Mall was completed. The work involved reopening of the area to limited traffic, new paving, seats, lighting and landscaping. Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
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INFRASTRUCTURE
1167 KILOMETRES
Major Achievements - Infrastructure Services Work programs continued to be suspended to allow Council resources the opportunity to respond to the flood and lead the recovery operations. Flood Damage Repairs 2009 and 2012 flood events – All outstanding works funded through Disaster Relief for these events were completed. South West Rocks Road Flood Damage A section of South West Rocks Road at Red Hill Lane was restored after flood damage from the February/March 2013 flood events. Second Lane, Kempsey Rehabilitation and sealing of Second Lane from the North Coast Railway line to Pacific Highway was completed. South Kempsey Water Infrastructure Grant The $1.8m project is expected to be completed by November 2013 and delivers essential water services to existing and potential businesses located from South Kempsey to the Southern Interchange. The pursuit of water services for this major employment corridor has been a key component of Council’s Bypass Economic Strategy and the State Government contributed $800,000 towards getting the job done. Moparrabah Creek Causeway The Moparrabah Creek causeway was reconstructed after flood damage in 2011. The eastern slab of the causeway had been destabilised by the previous flood and had dropped. This made the crossing unpassable to any vehicle other than four-wheel drives with high ground clearance and added a considerable increase to the trip time into town for many of the nearby property owners. The causeway was repaired by placing a new reinforced concrete surface over the top of the previous causeway with provisions for fish passage during low flows. The old structure effectively prevented fish from passing any further upstream and the replacement structure addressed this concern. Bus Shelter and Taxi Rank Council received a $66,400 grant from the NSW Government under the 2011-2012 Country Passenger Transport Infrastructure Grants Scheme to allow the work to go ahead. Focus was to provide infrastructure for use by public transport commuters in rural and regional areas. The location of the bus shelters in Pacific Street, Crescent Head and Rawson Street, Smithtown, were decided after consultation with local bus companies. The State’s funding also allowed Council to construct a new taxi rank in York Lane, Kempsey. The location of the new taxi rank was decided following consultation by Council with the local taxi owners, identifying the need for a collection point closer to the Kempsey CBD. Airport Redevelopment Plans Completed to a stage where they would satisfy the Federal Government’s requirements so that the $2m funding grant could be secured.
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Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
INFRASTRUCTURE
97
Parks and Reserves
77
ha
Major Achievements - Infrastructure Services Assessing Footpaths and the Road Network Council recently appointed Infrastructure Management Group (IMG) to undertake an inspection of all Council footpaths and cycleways using this new technology. The all-terrain vehicles are a new innovation being used in assessing the condition of footpaths and cycleways in the Shire using a combination of lasers, radars, cameras and computers to scan the footpath surface. IMG are also using the same technology to survey all of Council’s road assets to enable Council to compare the standard of our road network with the data gathered in 2008. South West Rocks CBD Streetscape Improvements Work commenced on the streetscape improvement in Prince of Wales and Paragon Avenues. Holiday Parks Renovations and upgrades carried out to one of the amenities in each of Council’s five Holiday Parks under its capital improvement program at a total cost just above $1.4m. Horseshoe Bay, South West Rocks Community consultation and master plan preparation progressed to exhibition stage. Gladstone SES New Building Construction plans developed ready to call tenders. Mattys Flat Public Wharf, South West Rocks Mattys Flat public wharf and floating pontoon commenced. Smith Street, Kempsey The parking was changed in Smith Street after the opening of the Bypass to have nose in, angle car spaces, creating 14 additional spaces taking parking capacity up to 49 spaces along the strip. New signage was erected including 2 hour parking time limits. Asset Management Plans Major headway made in the preparation of asset management plans for all of Council’s assets. Inspection and revaluation of all of Council’s building assets was completed.
Bridge Works Billybyang Creek Bridge Refurbishment of Billybyang Creek Bridge on Hickeys Creek Road. Cedar Crossing Road A timber bridge on Cedar Crossing Road was replaced with a major box culvert to improve access to properties particularly after flood events. Brossys Bridge, Brassils Creek Road The timber bridge on Brassils Creek Road was replaced with a concrete box culvert. McPhillips Bridge, Austral Eden Outer Road McPhillips Bridge was replaced with a concrete box culvert. This bridge had deteriorated over time and recent flood activity had resulted in a need to urgently replace the bridge. Korogoro Creek Bridge Plans were prepared and a contract awarded for the upgrade of Korogoro Creek Bridge, Hat Head. Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
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Major Achievements - Infrastructure Services
South West Rocks Road Stabilisation This road has been reconstructed from Red Hill to Ferry Lane after the significant damage it received from the construction traffic from the bypass and a number of floods over the last four years. The works involved reinstating the road shoulder to provide adequate support for the road pavement, allowing the drainage to be reformed ahead of the refurbishment of the road pavement. Grant Funding for Road Safety Improvements Council was successful in obtaining $881,000 in grant funding for road safety improvements on South West Rocks and Crescent Head Roads. The grant funding is being provided under the Federal Governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Nation Building Program and Council received more funding following the recent success of similar works on Grassy Head Road and Gowings Hill Road. The grant funding provided $497,000 towards widening, line marking and improved delineation/signage along Crescent Head Road between Ranch Road and the Corduroy Crossing. A further $384,000 was provided for South West Rocks Road between Kinchela and Benelong Haven.
Road Works
Resealed 0.9km section of Grassy Head Road additional curve warning signs. Sea Street, West Kempsey from Dangar to Neville Everson streets. 0.9km section of Gowings Hill Road additional curve warning signs and linemarking. 2.5km section of Crescent Head Road from Teague Drive to Seale Road. 2.7km section of Stuarts Point Road from Barbers Lane to Sixth Avenue, Stuarts Point. Gravel Resheeting Maria River Road and Beranghi Road were completed providing improved all-weather access for residents. The new gravel wearing surface greatly improved the drive quality and reduced the maintenance grading dependency of these roads. These projects were part of Councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 10-year roads strategy aimed at improving road conditions across the shire. Willi Willi Road and Turners Flat Road were completed. Eden Street, Kempsey Reconstruction of Eden Street from John Street to Sydney Street was completed providing improved road safety and access to properties. Sea Street, West Kempsey Kerb and guttering replacement. Landslip Restoration Major road embankment slips were stabilised at Pee Dee and Tynes Hill on Armidale Road. Restoration of riverbank slips on Belmore River Right Bank Road. Road embankment slip resulting from flood damage was restored at Nulla Nulla Creek Road. Ocean Avenue, Marine Parade and Stuarts Point Road, Stuarts Point The intersection of Ocean Avenue and Marine Parade at Stuarts Point was restored with an asphalt overlay to improve traffic and pedestrian safety. Widening and rehabilitation of Stuarts Point Road was also completed.
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Major Achievements - Infrastructure Services
Gregory Street Pedestrian Crossing Revamp The pedestrian crossing on Gregory Street, South West Rocks, adjacent to the Public School had a significant revamp with funding obtained by Council from Roads & Maritime Services (RMS). $22,000 was secured to be used towards the improvement of safety at the pedestrian crossing providing a number of opportunities to improve the signage, line marking and channelling of traffic at the pedestrian crossing. One of Council’s engineering students led the site investigation and design works which were approved by RMS.
Water and Sewerage
West Kempsey Sewerage Treatment Replacement/Augmentation The concept design for this project was completed and expanded to create a centralised Sewerage Treatment Plant (STP) that could replace three existing plants to achieve better environmental outcomes. In addition, suitable land was purchased and detailed site investigations are progressing (including contour surveying, geotechnical drilling and environmental assessments). Kempsey Rail Bridge Water Main Since the 1956 floods, a means to secure a second water main to the southern and eastern side of the Macleay River at Kempsey has been sought. A temporary water main was installed upon the West Kempsey footbridge in 1970 adjacent to the Kempsey rail bridge. This year, Council drilled below the Macleay River and installed a 550m long pipeline through the hole. Once connections are complete, this construction will secure the long term water supply to the southern and eastern side of the Macleay River and allow the temporary main to be decommissioned and removed from the structure. West Kempsey Infiltration Reduction Program All initial CCTV inspections are now complete for reticulation and trunk mains. Priority repairs have been completed in catchments rated as “significantly impacted by infiltration”. Relining and pipe replacements for both reticulation (657m) and trunk mains (990m) have been carried out. Condition assessment of all pipes is continuing and is being used to support programming of future asset maintenance, repairs and replacements. Water Supply Pumping Station Upgrades Replacement bores were installed at South West Rocks to supplement the existing borefield capacity. The SCB (Switch Control Board) for Cardwell Street, Booster Pump Station was replaced including instrumentation and SCADA (System Control and Data Acquisition) upgrades. Sewer Pumping Station Upgrades Pumping station upgrades were completed for Wharf Street, East Kempsey and Alverton Street, Greenhill, including pumps, SCB, instrumentation, valves and civil works. Water Main Renewals Pipelines were renewed in Ocean Avenue, Stuarts Point (195m of 200mm diameter mains) and Cooper Street, South West Rocks (200m of 100mm diameter drains).
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February 2013 Flood
Challenges • Converting the water and sewer revaluation to meaningful financial inputs for depreciation and remaining asset life. In the upcoming year, this information will be incorporated into the long term financial plan to allow development of pricing paths. • Continuing wet weather created ongoing difficulties for work on sewer and water systems early in 2013. • Lack of existing accurate data for the preparation of the asset management plans. • Gaining traction in works preparation due to the large backlog of work, organisational expectations and filling available positions. • Responding to significant Macleay River flood events in January, February and March 2013. • Maintaining and restoring the road system after the 2013 major flood events.
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ReseRve Road, CResCent Head The Challenges Previously the road was very narrow, heavily potholed and had been extensively patched. There were also concerns regarding the potential conflict between pedestrians and motorists, primarily due to the narrow road width and lack of adequate footpath facilities. The Process The condition of Reserve Road at Crescent Head had regularly featured in the community meetings and survey feedback provided to Council and the efforts to reconstruct the road had been strongly supported. Council previously completed the upgrading of the foreshore area with a new footpath and this was recognised by the community as a great asset. It was intended to continue the improvement works by addressing the condition of Reserve Road and improving the pedestrian connectivity between the foreshore and the CBD. Councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Design Team completed a revised design for the project following community consultation regarding the reconstruction of Reserve Road. A review of the design was prompted by concerns regarding the design details for drainage, the need to provide a layby for caravans and vehicles booking into the caravan park as well as attempts to simplify the construction process to reduce costs. In addition, the redesign process identified a sewer rising main which would be impacted by the proposed construction, requiring relocation and resulting in additional unforeseen costs. The design estimate for the costs of the project incorporating the sewer relocation, stormwater augmentation and local area traffic management initiatives was $523,000. The revised design also allowed sufficient room for a caravan bay adjacent to the park entrance to permit vehicles to park whilst checking in. The weather, holiday season and keeping the road open to traffic was quite a challenge as this is the only road access to the Crescent Head Caravan Park and foreshore reserve area and is highly utilised. The Result The project was completed prior to the peak Christmas holiday season and greatly improved the flow of vehicles into and out of the reserve. The wider road and footpath is much safer, and is visually appealing to this prime reserve area. Reserve Road, Crescent Head Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
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Completion of Flagstaff restoration
Completion of South WeSt RoCkS flagStaff ReStoRation Council undertook a very interesting and important project to restore the flagstaff and flag locker at Point Briner in South West Rocks, which was built in 1902. The flagstaff and flag locker formed part of the original pilot station complex and played a pivotal role in maintaining shipping routes along the NSW East Coast. The project to restore the historic flagstaff included other site improvements such as the extension of the existing footpaths and installation of interpretive signage. Members of the Mid North Coast Maritime Museum painstakingly restored the Signal Station as well as crafting new sections for the flagstaff ready for reassembling. The volunteers from the Museum went to great lengths to ensure that every aspect of the restoration was done in keeping with the original materials and style of the structure, preserving its historical significance. Council provided $60,000 to fund the project and received $10,000 in grant funding from the NSW Heritage Grants Program to extend the existing footpath and install interpretive signage at this site. A ceremony to celebrate the restoration was held on 10 October 2012. Council and the Mid North Coast Maritime Museum were recognised with an Engineering Excellence Award in the 2013 Institute of Public Works Engineers Australia NSW Engineering Excellence Awards for the restoration project. The project was the winner of the Heritage Award for a project demonstrating excellence in the preservation and restoration of one of this regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s oldest items of transport infrastructure. The judges were impressed by the level of workmanship from the Maritime Museum and very interested in the way Council had partnered with a community organisation to produce a great result at a very reasonable price. The project was also selected as a finalist in the 2013 Engineers Australia, Newcastle Division, Engineering Excellence awards and competed with other finalists from Northern NSW including the Kempsey Bypass.
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View from Bellbrook lookout
buSh fire hAzArd reducTion AcTiViTieS Bush Fire section s428(2)(i1) Fire is a natural process to which native animals and plants have adapted to. Groups of animals and plants that constitute an ecosystem respond similarly to fire according to the characteristics of their life history. Many small mammals and most birds breed in spring and summer (commonly the fire period). As burned areas regenerate, different species find suitable habitat at the various levels of regeneration. Changing fire regimes have been associated with the decline of many biological communities. The correct management of fire is thus essential to avoid disruption of ecosystems and extinction of species. On 12 January 2011 the Lower North Coast Bushfire Risk Management Plan was signed by the Bushfire Coordinating Committee. This plan identifies assets, assesses risk and applies treatments, as required, across all tenures within the Lower North Coast. The NSW Rural Fire Service (Lower North Coast Zone) indicated local brigades attended 333 incidents across the Kempsey Shire from 1 July 2012 to 30 June 2013. Bush Fire Management The Kempsey Rural Fire Service has continued to supply a service to the community and Kempsey Shire Council in line with the Service Level Agreement; this was achieved by participating in fire suppression and mitigation, community engagement and public advice in relation to hazard reduction and development applications. The community engagement team completed 32 activities across Kempsey Shire throughout the year. Brigades took part in the state-wide open day, conducted street walks and held various static displays encouraging fire safety awareness. Members of the community engagement team also attended conferences and training both locally and regionally to increase their skills and knowledge in the field of community engagement. In the 2012-2013 year staff received and actioned 20 hazard complaints across the Kempsey Shire. Staff also issued 20 Hazard Reduction Certificates under the Bushfire Environmental Assessment Code and completed 2 Review of Environmental Factors. Volunteer Rural Fire Service brigades assisted with a total of 15 hazard reduction burns encompassing an area of approximately 168 ha and volunteers issued 457 permits during last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bushfire danger period. Overall the agencies compiling the Lower North Coast Bushfire Management Committee conducted approximately 4504 hectares of hazard reduction burning across all tenures within Kempsey and Nambucca Shires. Local brigades attended 333 incidents across the Kempsey Shire from 1 July 2012 to 30 June 2013. Within those 333 incidents local brigades attended 23 Motor Vehicle Accidents/car fires, 11 Hazmats, 29 Good Intent/ False Alarms, 16 Support Other Agencies, and 17 Structural Fires. Across the Kempsey Shire in 2012-2013 approximately 19,033 hectares of land was burnt by wildfire. Training was carried out for brigades as per the training program with all targets being met. Problems are being encountered with a decline in the number of instructors and assessors at a local level. Without the dedication of the volunteers and the assistance given by Kempsey Shire Council to provide plant and equipment as required, the 2012-2013 season would have been significantly worse. Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
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Waste Recycling
One of the MIDWASTE KeepCups Creations from Waste into Art
Polystyrene recycling machine
Polystyrene Waste Recycling A polystyrene recycling machine was installed at the Crescent Head Road Waste Management Centre under a grant from the Environment Protection Authority. Resident using Council’s free Polystyrene is a problem waste HandyBin as it is susceptible to breaking down into tiny pieces and is easily Public Place Waste and Recycling bin scattered by the wind. The machine enclosures at Kempsey Skate Park allows processing of polystyrene, reducing its bulk by 90% and diverting it from landfill and possible escape into the environment. The resulting resin is able to be recycled and is being used in a number of commercially viable products. Waste Into Art The Waste Into Art competition was again run as an artistic event for schools whereby waste materials are turned into works of art, showing the community that wastes can be re-made into useful, beautiful and meaningful things. Handy Bins Council is continuing the education and promotion of Council’s offer of free HandyBins and liner bags. These food-scrap bins are designed to live in the kitchen or where food is consumed in a workplace to make it easier for people to collect and divert food waste from going to waste in landfill. It can instead go into a kerbside organic green bin used at home to feed pets and chickens or go into a worm farm, composting system or garden bed (cold composting). Up to half of the average kerbside waste red bin is compostable matter that should not go to waste in landfill where it putrefies anaerobically to create dangerous undesirable air and water pollutants. Separating this material into the green bin system will reduce the long term cost of waste disposal for everyone. KeepCup Competition The community was encouraged to “choose to ReUse” with a KeepCup Competition generating a resource list, “Local’s tips to save our local tip”. Public Place Recycling Council installed new public place waste and recycling bin enclosures at Frederickton Boat Ramp and Kempsey Skate Park, which have been successful in helping keep recycling out of landfill and reduced littering. 100
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Educational Worm Farm and Workshop Council delivered the 20th Educational Worm Farm and Workshop as part of the free offering to any local community group, school or childcare centre that can demonstrate how it will be used to educate and save more paper and food waste from going into landfill bins. This achievement was a milestone in the planned delivery of this program to our community. World Environment Day For World Environment Day Council delivered a waste education presentation to the public, issued foodscrap HandyBins and donated an educational compost bin to the local TAFE as part of the Harvest Festival. Love Food Hate Waste Workshop A workshop aimed at reducing the percentage of food that goes to waste was offered to the community from Kempsey Library. The program has the potential to save the average household around $1,000 each year in wasted food that could be avoided with smarter cooking, planning and preserving. Food waste going into landfill putrefies anaerobically to create dangerous air and water pollutants. Recycle Your Mobile Phone Kempsey Shire Council has been working with MobileMuster and participated in this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s World Environment Day by calling on local residents to round up and recycle their old mobiles, batteries and accessories following the latest news that there are more unused old mobiles lying around in homes than ever before. Right Waste to the Right Place This campaign had educational material distributed on local TV, radio and ads on local bus shelters. Right Waste to the Right Place campaign ad in a Kempsey Bus Shelter
MobileMuster collection point at the Kempsey Library
Worm farm Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
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Our Future - Infrastructure Services Plans for the Next 12 Months
• Detailed design of West Kempsey Sewerage Treatment Plant. • Concept design for sewerage in Stuarts Point. • New water main extension and detailed sewerage design in South Kempsey from South Street to the new highway interchange. • Refurbishment of the Stuarts Point water treatment plant sand filters. • Fluoridation of the Kempsey and Crescent Head water supply. • Expansion of the Sherwood community sewerage system. • Commence operation of the South West Rocks Recycled Water Scheme. • Implement a pilot testing system of the proposed new SCADA system. • Commence disinfection of the South Kempsey STP effluent as required by the EPA. • Assess, prioritise and program repairs/replacements for West Kempsey sewer system pipes and receiving chambers. • Complete Capital Works program for 2013-2014 financial year including, water main renewals, sewer main renewals, water bore and sewer pump station replenishment. • Preparation of asset management plans for all of Council’s assets. • Prepare a master plan for Crescent Head CBD and foreshore reserve. • Undertake an assessment of the stormwater infrastructure in South West Rocks. • Construct Gladstone SES building. • Review the flood mitigation infrastructure for the Lower Macleay. • Implement the revitalisation of Horseshoe Bay Reserve in accordance with the master plan and plan of management. • Construct a new shelter shed in the same location as it previously was at Horseshoe Bay and restore the surrounding area. • Construct a wildlife fence at the Kempsey Airport. • Prepare construction drawings for all aspects of the $2m Airport redevelopment and commence construction of the same. • Completion of Mattys Flat upgrade works (public wharf, boat wash down bay and carpark). • Prepare construction plans for the upgrade of Smith Street. • Undertake significant road rehabilitation work on Plummers Lane, South West Rocks Road, River Street (West Kempsey), Crescent Head Road, Barnard Street, Gladstone and East Kempsey streets • Replace bridges at Korogoro Creek (Hat Head Road), Reserve Road, Grassy Head and Upper Smiths Creek Road, Kundabung. • Gravel resheeting of Point Plomer Road, Crescent Head and Back Creek Road, Kinchela. • Complete the South West Rocks CBD streetscape works. • Commence streetscape works in Smith Street, Kempsey.
Long term plans – 5 years • Detailed design and construction of Hat Head Sewer Treatment Plant augmentation • Construct a new West Kempsey Sewer Treatment Plant to meet modern day environmental licensing and standards as well as accommodate flows from two other STPs • Develop concept augmentation plans for water supply, recycled water and sewerage services to meet our growing community’s needs and modern-day standards • Develop intermediate to long term asset replacement programs for water and sewer infrastructure • Continue to develop and improve Council’s asset management plans.
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Our Future - Infrastructure Services cont. • Use Council’s asset management plans to prepare detailed forward works programs for all asset types, including asset evaluation and possible disposal, renewal and replacement. • Rationalise existing recreational infrastructure to reduce operating and maintenance costs, allowing for reinvestment in the development of critical assets. • Upgrade the Saleyard facility to address effluent disposal issues and improve the selling yards. • Refurbish Council’s Holiday Parks to a standard that is acceptable to the holidaying public. • Complete the old Pacific Highway Corridor Masterplan redevelopment.
Measuring our Performance - General Fund Program Review 2012-2013 Operating Plan Specific Actions – Goal 3 End of Year Review The following table illustrates the status of the specific actions identified through the 2012-2013 Operating Plan for Goal 3 in addition to any works required by resolutions of the Council and projects carried over from previous years.
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Measuring our Performance - General Fund Program Review
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Measuring our Performance - General Fund Program Review
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Measuring our Performance - General Fund Program Review Whilst the majority of the road works program has been successfully completed for 2012-2013, the works planned for Nance Road in South Kempsey have been deferred pending further geotechnical investigation. The Council also resolved to reallocate funding planned for Armidale Road and Plummers Lane to undertake urgent works on South West Rocks Road. Hence these projects were not completed. The initial investigation of works proposed for Nance Road indicated that the budget was insufficient to treat the current road condition appropriately and it was determined that further geotechnical investigation is necessary in order to allow consideration of a more appropriate budget for this work in the future. The original works program budgets were set using unit rates and whilst there will be some level of inaccuracy, over the whole program it has been acceptable. Nance Road is a standout to this and due to the local circumstances requires a considerably higher budget than allowed for in the unit rates. Grevillea Avenue at Stuarts Point was originally scheduled to be resealed over 87 metres in conjunction with the works on Ocean Avenue. Considering the condition of Ocean Avenue and the proposed extent of works on Grevillea Avenue, the attention was focused upon addressing issues in Ocean Avenue. Completion of the planned improvements for Horseshoe Bay Reserve have been deferred pending adoption of the Master Plan and revised Plan of Management for the Reserve. The proposed update of the Plans of Management for the coastal holiday parks was deferred pending finalisation of the Horseshoe Bay Reserve Master Plan and Plan of Management. The level of input required for the Horseshoe Bay Master Plan was underestimated and as a result work on the development of the Plans of Management for other coastal foreshore reserves has not proceeded. Council completed the works for the 2012-2013 Country Transport Passenger Infrastructure Grant Scheme (CTPIGS) at York Lane, Crescent Head and Smithtown. Council was also successful in obtaining funding for new facilities at Angus McNeil Crescent, South Kempsey, and Seven Hills Road, Collombatti. These new projects are currently in design and will be installed later in 2013. Council’s application for funding in 2012 to restore the CBD levees to their design height was unsuccessful and this action is intended to be undertaken from maintenance funds. The flood events early in 2013, have exhausted the funding available for maintenance and the works have been deferred to the 2013-2014 financial year. The Wildlife Risk Management Plan for the Kempsey Airport has progressed past the draft stage with the plan being placed on public exhibition. Three formal submissions were received. The plan needs to be reported to Council for formal adoption. In the interim, an on-call surveillance plan has been implemented to assist in managing the risks identified under the plan. Works have not commenced on the development of the business and lease areas at the Kempsey Airport under the Mid North Coast Aviation Excellence Plan. Council was recently advised of success in obtaining the funding promised for this project and negotiations are currently occurring over the terms of the funding agreement. Once the agreement is finalised, works will proceed. Council’s contractor has commenced work on the upgrade of Mattys Flat boat ramp and it is expected that the new wharf and floating pontoon structure will be completed in the next couple of months. This will allow Council to undertake the car park modifications that are proposed and finalise the project prior to Christmas 2013. Whilst work is currently in progress collecting condition information regarding Council’s building assets and reviewing the provision of maritime infrastructure, work has not commenced on reviewing the provision of building maintenance services and the underutilisation of building assets. The current focus is on updating Council’s Asset Management Plan for all classes in order to meet the requirements for consideration of the planned special rate variation in late 2013-2014. 106
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Measuring our Performance - Water and Sewerage The progress on completion of specific actions listed for Councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Water and Sewer Programs was sound. The following table illustrates the status and progress achieved during the last 12 months.
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Measuring our Performance - Water and Sewerage
Work was deferred on augmentation of the Lower Macleay trunk main system so that an investigation could be undertaken into the overall long term strategy for the scheme. It may be possible that Council has an opportunity to reduce the lifecycle costs of providing water services to the coastal communities by connecting those schemes to the larger Kempsey scheme allowing for economies of scale. Good progress was made in reviewing the existing telemetry system for Councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s water supply and sewerage infrastructure. Council staff have been working with a consultant and have now settled on a framework for future upgrade of the systems. This is currently being trialled. Once the trial is successfully completed, work will commence on upgrade of the system progressively over the next three years. The majority of the water main renewal program was completed with the exception of Bellimbopinni and Crescent Head areas. At Bellimbopinni, it was determined to defer this work until further analysis of the existing infrastructure condition and previous failures could be undertaken. It may be possible to defer this work for several years allowing higher priority replacements to be considered. In Crescent Head, some replacement work was undertaken after a major main failure earlier in 2012. In addition, a significant water main cleaning program was undertaken in lieu of infrastructure replacements. This is considered to have provided a greater level of benefit to the network and assisted in addressing water quality complaints. Completion of the sewer main renewal program was not as good as expected and this was the result of concentrating resources on rectifying defects identified in the West Kempsey system as part of the West Kempsey Infiltration Reduction Program. The benefits of focussing resources into this area were proven during the recent flood events when the Emergency Overflow Bypass System to the river did not need to be operated. 108
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Measuring our Performance - Water and Sewerage Council is continuing negotiations and discussions with the Department of Health, NSW Office of Water and the Department of Public Works regarding the fluoridation of the Kempsey and Crescent Head water supplies. This work is expected to carry over for at least another 12 to 24 months. Progress is being made on the proposed upgrade for West Kempsey Sewerage Treatment Works. Council successfully acquired the property for the construction of a new sewerage treatment plant. The property has been surveyed and studies are being undertaken into the environmental impact and geotechnical conditions prior to the detailed design progressing. Council has completed a concept design and the detailed design will progress early in the new year. Unfunded projects • Implementation of a sewerage scheme at Stuarts Point • Linkages for water supply schemes within the Shire to better manage quality and drought security • Remote monitoring of source water within the coastal aquifers • Investigate and complete raising of the CBD levees to afford a higher level of protection • Provision of drainage, kerb and guttering and pavement reconstruction of Peter Mouatt Street, South West Rocks • Replacement of open drain in Bissett Street, East Kempsey with below ground pipework • Extension of railway footbridge towards Kemp Street, Kempsey to provide flood free pedestrian access
Service locator using high pressure / water vacuum Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
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Measuring our Performance - Water and Sewerage Kempsey Shire Council is required under the Protection of the Environment Operations Act to regularly test the quality of each sewage treatment plant it operates within the Shire. The reports from the testing of the following plants are now published online at www.kempsey.nsw.gov.au/water/stats/ • Crescent Head
• South Kempsey
• Frederickton
• South West Rocks
• Gladstone
• Hat Head
• West Kempsey Pollutant Limit Result Date Sampled: 19 June 2013 - Date obtained: 27 June 2013 - Date published: 2 July 2013 Oil & grease Total suspended solids Biochemical Oxygen Demand pH Total nitrogen Total phosphorus Faecal coliforms Nitrogen (ammonia)
10 mg/L 30 mg/L 20 mg/L 6.5 - 8.5 25 mg/L 3 mg/L 600 cfu/100mL 10 mg/L
<2 mg/L 2 mg/L <2 mg/L 7.5 22.8 mg/L 0.05 mg/L 0 cfu/100mL 0.09 mg/L
Above: Testing report from 19 June 2013 of Crescent Head Sewerage Treatment plant, taken fromwww.kempsey.nsw.goc.au/water/stats/
Measuring our Performance - KPI Table with Comparison Performance Indicators measure the community’s expectations against Council’s actual performance in all areas. KPI table with comparisons back to 2010-2011.
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Measuring our Performance - KPI Table with Comparison
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Measuring our Performance - Landfill Site Statutory reporting The Landfill site must submit an annual return to the NSW EPA for environmental compliance at the end of August and in the last year we have started displaying the regular testing data for this site online at www.kempsey.nsw.gov.au/waste
Infrastructure Services - Trainees and Apprentices Council has continued to provide opportunities for Traineeships and Internships, to skill our local community with the specific skills required for working in local government. In 2013, Councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Water Section employed four new trainees who have commenced their Certificate II in Water Industry Operations and one school based trainee who has continued with a Certificate II Water training. Six existing trainees completed their Certificate II in Water Industry Operations and have now progressed to undertake a Certificate III level qualification. In addition, Council has employed one Electrical and one Mechanical Fitter apprentice. Our Operations Section has also had a number of trainees in the past two years who have completed a Certificate II and Certificate III level qualification in Civil Construction, Horticulture or Waste Management. A large number of the trainees who have successfully completed the traineeship program have obtained permanent or temporary employment with Council. The calibre of some of the trainees coming through this system has been exceptional and is indicative of the need for career opportunities locally within our community. Council provides the ideal opportunity for those people to seek out challenging but rewarding careers without having to relocate to major metropolitan centres. Councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Water and Technical Services sections also participated in some internship programs, providing on-the-job training to university students studying degree courses in both Civil Engineering and Environmental Science.
Interns Mick Lambley and Hayden Williams
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Information Management Governance Human Resources Financial Services Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
Civic Centre
113
fAST fAcTS 9.36 Hours after ordinary Council
meetings that the minutes are available to the public
38
Public liability claims for property damage
7
Public liability claims for personal injury
95.83
% of GIPA requests resolved within legislated timeframe
4.97
% of staff turnover (excluding retirement) Aerial view of the Civic Centre
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LIDAR (LIght DetectIon AnD RAngIng) MAppIng The maps are created by overlaying aerial photography over data called LIDAR. LIDAR stands for Light Detection and Ranging. LIDAR is a remote sensing technology that measures distance by illuminating a target with a laser and analysing the reflected light. In 1971 the accuracy and usefulness of LIDAR systems was proven during the Apollo 15 mission, when astronauts used a laser altimeter to map the surface of the moon. Council’s LIDAR data is captured utilising an aircraft. The aircraft flies across the capture area and gathers data on the height of the ground and other objects below. This data can then be used to create a digital model of the terrain. This type of model is called a digital elevation model or DEM. The DEM is a mass of points (around a 2,000,000 points per 1 km2). Each point has an X, Y & Z value. The X & Y values represent the geographic position of the point, as in the longitude and latitude of the point. The Z value contains the height above sea level of the point. With increasingly better technology it is now possible to capture LIDAR data not only of the ground surface but also objects/structures on top of the ground DEM of Arakoon and surroundings including vegetation/trees, buildings, water, bridges etc. Council utilises LIDAR data for creating digital terrain and elevation models, high resolution contours and flood modelling.
Diagram showing how LIDAR data is captured
DEM of a city created using LIDAR
‘3D Map’ of Arakoon with Little Bay and Smoky Cape in the background
Diagram showing multiple returns from a single laser pulse
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CORPORATE
Percentage of staff indicating satisfaction with their employment
94.4% About Corporate Management Corporate Management refers to the corporate governance of Council and the processes by which Council is directed, controlled and held to account. Corporate Governance encompasses authority, accountability, stewardship, leadership, direction and control in the organisation. The key elements for Corporate Management are the implementation of effective internal control systems for financial, work health and safety and administrative processes; transparency of corporate information and operations; and accountability through clear and timely disclosure to the community.
Major Achievements • Research and implement hardware and software applications to facilitate electronic business papers for Councillors. An evaluation of options was undertaken to enable documents to be published and viewed on an iPad using iAnnotate. This technology was used to deliver the first business paper of the new Council in September 2012. The process for the distribution of the business paper and minutes was reviewed following the introduction of iPads as well as training delivered to Councillors and staff. • Administer the 2012 local government election in accordance with section 296 of the Local Government Act. The Ordinary Election of Councillors for the Kempsey Shire Council was held on 8 September 2012. This election also included the election of the Mayor by electors of the Shire for the first time. The Australian Election Company was appointed (under the partially outsourced option) to conduct the local government election. This provided a saving to Council of approximately $46,000 when compared to using the services of the New South Wales Electoral Commission. • Deliver an induction program for Councillors. A comprehensive induction program was developed for incoming and returning councillors. This program was delivered by the General Manager and staff over eight sessions including a tour of the Shire and various Council facilities. • Record, audit, review and rationalise Council’s print and copy use. The print and copy use was monitored and reviewed during 2012-2013. This resulted in the consolidation of approximately eighty print and copy devices to forty and a reduction in print and copy expenditure of approximately $100,000 per annum. • Review Council’s policies in regard to access to information and ensure that confidential matters are dealt with appropriately. Access to confidential information procedures have been reviewed following the introduction of the TRIM electronic document management system. The security levels available in this system ensure all confidential documents are only available to appropriate officers. 116
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CORPORATE
Reduction in Rates and annual charges outstanding to
5.34% Major Achievements C
ont.
• Develop and implement an electronic Delegations Register to capture and allocate delegations of authority to every staff position. Position and delegation listings have been developed. A data base for this information is to be developed with delegations to be allocated to each position. • Financial reporting and services. • A revaluation of water and sewer assets was completed in line with statutory timeframes. • Implementation of the revised Rating and Water billing system. • Review of the rating structure following the general valuation. • Reduction in the rates and annual charges outstanding percentage to 5.34% (2012 - 6.29%).
Challenges • Review insurance excess levels with a view to reducing overall insurance costs. • Review and enhance existing physical file retrieval processes using development applications as a model for this review. • Develop, implement and test an information technology Disaster Recovery Plan. (a) Develop Disaster Recovery Plan. (b) Implement and test plan. • Establish an operational Information Communication Technology (ICT) disaster recovery site at the Works Depot. • Streamline storage and publication of documents via multiple information systems e.g. Web, Intranet and TRIM. (a) Identify optimal storage solution. (b) Implement changes.
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Provision of PhotocoPiers, Printers and associated Products and services Agreements for the provision and maintenance of copiers for the majority of Council fleet expired on 31 March 2013. On 31 October 2012 Procurement Australia issued a Request for Quotation (RFQ) for the supply of Photocopiers, Printers and Associated Products and Service on the behalf of Kempsey Shire Council under 1405/0827 tender. This RFQ called for pricing for the replacement of 23 copiers, 7 printers and 13 small multi-function devices. A further 28 devices were not to be replaced, and 6 existing special-purpose print devices are maintained. A supplier briefing was conducted on 9 November 2012 and representatives from all six suppliers and their local agents attended. The tender was awarded to Colourworks Australia Pty Ltd for supply of photocopiers, printers and associated products for a four year period at an amount of $473,551. The print and copy use was monitored and reviewed during 2012-2013. This resulted in the consolidation of approximately eighty print and copy devices to forty and a reduction in print and copy expenditure of approximately $100,000 per annum. One of Councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new photocopiers
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Our Future - Corporate Plans for the Next 12 Months
• Ensure Council’s investments comply with Council’s policy and Ministerial Guidelines • Provide a report to Council within twelve months of the September 2012 election on the organisation structure • Ensure compliance with the Government Information Public Access (GIPA) Act and Privacy and Personal Information Protection Act, including training of staff • Finalise development of an IT Disaster Recovery Plan • Review insurance excess levels with a view to reducing overall insurance costs • Undertake a further review on property insurance to determine if self-insurance of items is feasible • Undertake a review of banking operations to obtain cost effective fees and charges • Ensure fees and charges comply with the Goods and Services Tax regime • Ensure the long term Financial Plan incorporates Asset Management Plan objectives • Maintain all required hardware maintenance and software licensing in order to support Council’s information, communication and technology (ICT) infrastructure • Review and enhance the existing physical file retrieval processes • Establish an operational ICT disaster recovery site at the Works Depot • Streamline storage and publication of documents via multiple information systems • Review on-cost amounts charged to Water, Sewer and Waste Funds • Conduct an employee opinion survey • Develop and conduct training for employees on Work, Health and Safety accountabilities, responsibilities and authorities • Provide continuing support, education and training opportunities for councillors and staff.
Long term plans – 5 years
• Review all fees and charges incorporating statutory requirements, the user pays principle, the ability to pay principle and movement in the consumer price index or local government cost index • Maintain and review Council’s ten year Financial Plan • To facilitate the procurement of goods and services that are suitable for the purpose and provides value for money on a whole of life basis through open and effective competition • Maintain a manageable inventory stock level to meet operational requirements and cost • Monitor plant utilisation to ensure usage is in line with the plant replacement program to meet operational requirements • Review and implement the Workforce Management Strategy • Develop and manage scholarship, internship, work experience, trainee and apprenticeship programs.
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Measuring our Performance
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Measuring our Performance
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Details of Contracts Details of contracts awarded for amounts greater than $150,000. s428(2)(h) The following is a list of contracts awarded by the Council during the 2012-2013 year other than employment contracts or contracts less than $150,000:
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Statement of External Bodies Statement of external bodies that exercised functions delegated by council s428(2)(o)
Reporting on Government Information (Public Access) Act activity s125(6) The Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009 (GIPA) commenced from 1 July 2010. This replaced the Freedom of Information Act. The GIPA Act objective is to open government information to the public by: (a) authorising and encouraging the proactive public release of government information by agencies, and (b) giving members of the public an enforceable right of access to government information, and (c) providing that access to government information is restricted only when there is an overriding public interest against disclosure. Currently Council makes much of its information publicly available on its website. Council is currently satisfied with the level of government information currently available. Council will endeavour to proactively release any newly created documents that should be made available in the public interest. Council will only require formal GIPA applications as a last resort where there would appear an overriding public interest against disclosure. During the reporting period, our agency received a total of twenty four formal access applications (including withdrawn applications but not invalid applications). During the reporting period, our agency refused a total of thirteen formal access applications because the information requested was information referred to in Schedule 1 to the GIPA Act. Of those applications, five were refused in full, and eight were refused in part. The following table sets out information relating to the access applications made to Council during the 2012-2013 year. The information is provided in the format required by the Government Information (Public Access) Regulation. â&#x20AC;&#x192; Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
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Statistical Information
* 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). The total number of decisions in Table B should be the same as Table A.
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Applications
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Applications
Statement of action taken by the council in complying with the requirements of the PPIP Act. s33 Council has adopted a Privacy Management Plan which sets out Councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s policies and procedures on matters related to privacy and the protection of personal information. Council reviewed its Privacy Management Plan in 2012-2013 based on the new model Privacy Management plan issued by the Division of Local Government. Council also forwarded a copy of its revised plan to the Office of the Privacy Commissioner. Statistical details of any review conducted by or on behalf of the council under Part 5. s33 (Part 5 relates to the review of certain conduct being: contravention by council of an information protection principle or of a privacy code of practice, or disclosure of personal information kept in a public register)
Nil.
Tony Curtin, Manager Finance
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Legal Costs Incurred by Council Summary of the amounts incurred by the council in relation to legal proceedings and a summary of the state of progress of each legal proceeding and result Cl 217(1)(a3) Particulars Kempsey Shire Council vs Thrush and Gullotto: Unauthorised land clearing.Verdict in favour of Council with costs awarded to Council. Piwila vs Kempsey Shire Council: Planning class 1 appeal. Appeal upheld. Kempsey Shire Council vs M A Roche Group Pty Ltd: Unauthorised use of land for gravel processing. Harvey vs Kempsey Shire Council: Planning class 1 appeal. Recovery of unpaid rates with costs recovered from ratepayers and debtors.
Finalised Yes
Expenses Receipts $3,749
Yes
$1,080
Yes
$8,627
Yes
$9,894
No
$68,186
$73,566
Complaints Handling Mechanism for Competitive Neutrality Complaints
Members of the public can make complaints by contacting Council personally, by telephone, faxing or emailing or by writing to the General Manager. Council strives to provide its services efficiently and effectively to minimise any cause for complaints. Council recognises that any complaints received provide the organisation with an opportunity to identify and resolve issues of concern raised by members of the community. If a complaint is received procedures are in place to ensure that the complaint is managed so that a proper outcome is achieved within a minimum of time. Council has developed a comprehensive computerised complaints handling mechanism which is utilised by all staff who deal with complaints. The system, known as CARE (Customer Action Request and Enquiry), is a fully integrated software package which enables organisations to register, maintain, report, job cost and file customer requests and complaints. The initial request / complaint is made, a work order is created and forwarded to the relevant officer who undertakes the required work. A reporting system can assess actual performance against key performance indicators. To complement this system, Council has adopted a Complaints Policy, developed a procedure for use by staff to assist them when dealing with complaints and produced a brochure which outlines the procedure for people wishing to make a complaint, give a compliment or make a suggestion to Council. The policy related to complaints handling is available at www.kempsey.nsw.gov.au/policies/
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The former post office at Frederickton Local Heritage Grant recipient
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Accrual accounting
System of accounting where items are brought to account and included in the Financial Statements as they are earned or incurred, rather than as they are received or paid.
Accumulated average
The value of all net assets accumulated over time.
Assets
Future economic benefits controlled by Council as a result of past transactions or other past events.
Audit
An examination of the records, statements, systems, and procedures of an organisation, together with its stated claims for performance.
Best Practice
The means for achieving outcomes/results that are superior to all others and which are regarded as industry benchmarks.
Balance sheet
A quantitative summary of Council’s financial position at 30 June, including assets, liabilities and net equity.
Cash and cash equivalents assets
Cash and investments readily convertible to cash, including cash on hand, cash held in the bank, deposits at call and highly liquid investments.
Comprehensive Income Statement
A financial statement highlighting the accounting surplus or deficit of Council. It provides an indication of whether the Council has sufficient revenue to meet expenses in the current year, including non-cash costs such as depreciation and amortisation expenditure. It also includes other comprehensive income items including net asset revaluation increment (decrements) reversals and share of other comprehensive income of associates and joint ventures accounted for by the equity method to arrive at a ‘comprehensive result’. The comprehensive result equates to the moment in net assets or total equity from the prior year.
Contributions income
Contributions received by Council are received for the purpose of providing and improving public open space, provision/improvement of the drainage system and in relation to specific projects.
Current assets
Assets where Council expects to receive the future economic benefit within the next twelve months unless the asset is restricted from being exchanged or used to settle a liability for at least twelve months after the reporting date.
Current liabilities
Liabilities where Council expects to fulfil its obligation within the next twelve months unless the Council does not have an unconditional right to defer settlement of the liability for at least twelve months after reporting date.
Depreciation and amortisation expenditure
An expense which recognises the value of a fixed asset as it is used up over time.
Employee benefits expenditure
Relates to wages and salaries, casual staff payments, annual leave, long service leave, superannuation, fringe benefits tax, WorkCover and redundancy payments.
Equity
The residual interest in the assets of Council after deduction of its liabilities, which is made up of accumulated surplus and reserves. Total equity is also equal to net assets.
Expense
An outgoing payment made by Council.
External Audit
A formal, independent review of an organisation’s financial statements, records, transactions, or operations. External audits are usually performed by professional accountants to provide credibility to financial statements, ensuring external accountability and to identify key internal weaknesses in an organisation.
Finance costs
Interest paid on borrowings.
Financial Year
The financial year, for the purpose of this Annual report, is the period from 1 July 2012 to 30 June 2013.
Fixed assets
See Property, infrastructure, plant and equipment.
Governance
The process by which decisions are taken and implemented, organisations are controlled and Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
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Governance (cont.)
managed to achieve their objectives and the process by which organisations are directed, reviewed and held to account.
Grants – non-recurrent income
Grant income received for a ‘one off’ specific purpose, generally for a particular project.
Grants – recurrent income
Grant income received on a regular basis (i.e. quarterly, annually) and granted to Council by another entity for specific or general purposes.
Intangible assets
Represent non-current assets held by Council that are not tangible (such as computer software and licences).
Interest and investment income
Includes interest earned on all cash and investment balances, interest earned on rates and unrealised gains on managed fund investments.
Interest bearing loans and borrowings
Council’s borrowings.
Inventories
Includes fuel and consumables located at Council’s recreation centres.
Investment property assets
Represents land or buildings held to earn rentals or for capital appreciation or both, rather than for use in the supply of services or for administrative purposes.
Investments in associates accounted for using the equity method
Council’s share of the carrying value of its investment in its joint venture partnerships (Regional Landfill Clayton South).
Key Performance Indicator
A meaningful, high level measure used to determine whether an organisation has met, or is progressing towards, its planned outcomes.
Liabilities
Future sacrifices of economic benefits that Council is presently obliged to make to other entities as a result of past transactions or other past events.
Materials and services expenditure
Expenditure incurred in relation to contract payments and trade services, building maintenance, general maintenance, plant and equipment maintenance, utilities, consultants, office and administration, insurance, registration and Metropolitan Fire Brigade levy, financial and legal costs and information technology costs.
Movement in equity for the period
The net movement in the net surplus (deficit) and asset revaluation increments (decrements). This is also equal to the change in net assets.
Net asset revaluation increment(decrement)
This represents the increase (decrease) between the old valuation and new valuation of property and infrastructure asset classes, which were re-valued during the year.
Net assets
The difference between total assets and total liabilities, which represents Council’s net worth. Net assets are also equal to total equity.
Net gain (loss) on disposal of property, plant and equipment, infrastructure
The net of income received in relation to the sale of assets and the carrying amount of assets sold, replaced or disposed of during the year.
Non-current assets
Assets where the future economic benefit is not expected to be received within the next twelve months or where the asset is restricted from being exchanged or used to settle a liability for at least twelve months after the reporting date.
Non-current assets classified as held for sale
Non-current assets that Council intends to sell within the next twelve months.
Non-current liabilities
Liabilities where the obligation is not expected to be fulfilled within the next twelve months or where Council has a right to defer settlement of the liability for at least twelve months after reporting date.
Operational Plan
A statement of specific works to be undertaken, and services to be provided, to progress the goals
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Operational Plan (cont.)
and objectives set out in the corporate plan within a one-year period.
Other expenses
Includes auditors’ remuneration, Councillors’ allowances, operating lease rentals, impairment losses, community grants and contributions, training and professional development expenditure, contract settlement expenditure and expenditure incurred in relation to special rate schemes.
Other revenue income
Income received from investment property rental, other rental income, net assets recognised in new entity, waste management, craft markets, local laws and animal management, National Competition Policy divident, product sales, right-of-way-sales, town halls, transport and other sources.
Prepaid income
Income received by Council in advance of services being performed. This includes prepaid gym membership monies at Council’s recreation centres.
Prepayments
Payments made by Council in advance of receiving the goods or services.
Property, infrastructure, plant and equipment assets
Often referred to as Fixed Assets. This is the largest component of Council’s asset base or worth. This represents the value of all land, buildings, roads, footpaths, drains, bridges, vehicles, plant and equipment and so on, which are recorded on Council’s asset register.
Provisions
Includes accrued long-service leave, annual leave and rostered days off owing to employees at reporting date.
Rate and charges income
Income received from ratepayers in relation to general rates, garbage rates and special rate schemes.
Revenue
Revenue is the amount of money that Council actually receives from its activities, mostly from rates and services provided to customers and ratepayers.
Right-of-way
Former laneway no longer required for access to surrounding properties.
Statutory fees and fines income
Includes parking infringements and costs, Infringement court recoveries, town planning fees, land information certificates and trader parking and street furniture permits.
Surplus (deficit)
Represents the difference between total revenues, expenses, net gain (loss) on disposal of property, plant and equipment, infrastructure and share of net profits (losses) of associates and joint ventures accounted for by the equity method.
Trade and other payables
Monies owed by Council to other entities/individuals.
Trade and other receivables
Monies owed to Council by ratepayers and other parties less provisions for doubtful debts.
Trust funds and deposits
Monies received by Council for a specific purpose, which are to be refunded upon a specific event occurring (eg. Council assets are not damaged). If that specific event does not occur, Council is entitled to recognise these monies as income.
User fees
Income received by Council from a variety of fees and charges such as aged and health services fees, animal and local law fines and registrations, building permits and other charges, child care/children’s program fees, debt collection recovery charges, debt collection recovery charges, election fines, parking meter fees, ticket machine fees, leisure centre and recreation fees, ` fines and other charges and tow-away charges.
Vision
A statement articulating the desired future towards which the organisation is working.
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AASB ABS ah AHD ARA ASS ASU AUD CA CBD CCTV CDAT CKPOM CI CIV CMA CO2 CPA Cr CZM DCP DEEWR DLG DOPI EAP EEO EMP EPA FBT FTE GIPA GIS GM GRI GST HACC HSR IASB ICT IMG Inc IPR IPWEA IT K KBA kg kl km KPI KSC
132
Australian Accounting Standards Board Australian Bureau of Statistics after hours Australian Height Datum Australian Retailers Association Acid Sulphate Soils Australian Services Union Australian Dollars Chartered Accountants Central Business District Closed Circuit Television Community Drug Action Team Comprehensive Koala Plan of Management Continuous Improvement Capital Improved Value Coastal Management Authority Carbon dioxide Certified Practicing Accountant Councillor Coastal Zone Management Development Control Plan Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations Division of Local Government Department of Planning and Infrastructure Employee Assistance Program Equal Employment Opportunity Estuary Management Plan Environment Protection Authority Fringe Benefits Tax Full time equivalent Government Information Public Access Geographic Information System General Manager Global Reporting Initiative Goods and Services Tax Home and Community Care Health and Safety Representative International Accounting Standards Board Information, Communication and Technology Infrastructure Management Group Incorporated Integrated Planning and Reporting Institute of Public Works Engineering Australia Information Technology Thousand Kempsey Bypass Alliance Kilogram Kilolitre Kilometre Key Performance Indicator Kempsey Shire Council
LASF LAWA LEP LGA LGPro LGR LHPA LIDAR LGA LTIFR MBA MCCO MIDROC MOP NA NAIDOC NCP NDRRA NESB NGA NRCMA NRM NSW OAM OHS OHSMS PNG PPE QLD RIRDC RMS RRISK RSPCA SES SOE SWR T TAFE U3A YAC Yr WHS WIP WSUD
Local Authorities Superannuation Fund Local Area Workplace Agreement Local Environment Plan Local Government Area Local Government Professionals Local Government Reporting Requirements Livestock Health and Pest Authorities Light Detection and Ranging Local Government Area Lost Time Injury Frequency Rate Masters of Business Administration Macleay Community Care Options Mid North Coast Regional Organisation of Councils Mobile Outreach Program Not Applicable National Aborigines and Islanders Day Observance Committee National Competition Policy Natural Disaster Relief Recovery Arrangements Non English Speaking Backgrounds National Greenhouse Accounts Northern Rivers Catchment Management Autority Natural Resource Management New South Wales Medal of the Order of Australia Occupational Health and Safety Occupational Health and Safety Management System Papua New Guinea Personal Protection Equipment Queensland Rural Industries Research & Development Corporation Roads Maritime Services Reduce Risk - Increase Student Knowledge The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals State Emergency Services State of the Environment South West Rocks Tonne Technical and Further Education University of the Third Age Youth Advisory Council Year Work Health Safety Works in Progress Water Sensitive Urban Design
Kempsey Shire Council 2012-2013 Annual Report
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