CHRC Recruitment Information Booklet

Central Highlands Regional Council INFORMATION

BOOKLET

What to expect from a career with council and living in the region

Central Highlands Regional Council

Message from the Chief Executive Officer

making the decision to apply for a new job is exciting.

There are many factors to consider whether you are relocating or are local to the Central Highlands region and thinking about a change in career.

Local government careers offer many advantages including the diversity of jobs available and future employment prospects across Queensland and beyond. Being employed within the local government industry provides you with valuable experience that is sought by both public and private employers. There are councils all across Australia and the world, and with some seventy-seven councils in Queensland, opportunities exist from metropolitan localities to rural and remote areas and coastal environs.

Employees do come and go and sometimes we provide a springboard for young professionals on their career path while other times we offer a job which supports a family spending some time here while working in another industry. Some people work with us for a long time, building wonderful careers and supporting our community’s liveability.

Whatever the reason you’re looking for a new job, I’m happy that you’ve chosen to consider our council.

Besides the mining and agricultural industries, council is the largest employer in this vast region and we’re proud to offer a range of opportunities to the nearly 500 people who work with us – from horticultural work to designing bridges, from running libraries to waste resource recovery centres, from maintaining roads to supplying town water and everything in between.

That’s a lot of people with many different reasons for coming to work each day, so we have flexible working options because we know how important it is to find a way for work to fit in to your life. Our mantra of ‘growing our own’ means that, when you work for us, you get the opportunity to apply for jobs that become available which provides chances to learn new skills, practice some old ones and develop your career.

Our council invests in our people, in training, coaching and mentoring, and we take our council values seriously –respect and integrity, accountability and transparency, providing value to our community and commitment and teamwork.

It is an investment that council is committed to, as the results benefit the council as employer and the employee in the broadening of their skills and capabilities.

If you’re reading this, you’re already on a journey and considering taking the next step to join us at Central Highlands, to explore a new landscape and make new friends. Be sure to watch the Work, Play, Discover Central Highlands video to get a good feel for what living here is like and listen to some of our people describe how they work and play here in Central Highlands.

For support or a friendly opinion about working or living in the Central Highlands, pick up the phone and talk to one of our enthusiastic recruitment team members. We would love to welcome you to Central Highlands.

Sharon Houlihan Chief Executive Officer

mayor and councillors

Central Highlands Regional Council has nine councillors, including the mayor, who were elected in 2020 for a four-year term. It is a councillor’s responsibility to make decisions on all areas of policy and budget, including the level and extent of services and works to be provided during the year.

A snapshot of the Central Highlands Regional Council area

Our Organisation

Our council has five departments covering a diverse range of functions:

Communities

„ Planning and environment

„ Connected communities

„ Public relations and events

„ Community recreation and facilities

„ Disaster management

Infrastructure & Utilities

„ Infrastructure

„ Water utilities

„ Project development and contract delivery

„ Fleet, workshops and depot ops

Commercial and corporate Services

„ Emerald Airport

„ Emerald Saleyards

„ Customer service

„ Governance, information and property services

„ People and culture

„ Information and communication technology

„ Safety and wellness

CFO Office

„ Financial services

„ Procurement

Office of the CEO

The Central Highlands Regional Council was created on 15 March 2008, following the amalgamation of the shires of Bauhinia, Duaringa, Emerald and Peak Downs.

Our council is 60,000 km2 in size, an area almost equivalent to the size of Tasmania. It stretches from the Peak Ranges in the north, to the Arcadia Valley in the south, from Boolburra in the east, to Bogantungan in the west. It includes the major towns of Emerald, Blackwater, Springsure, Capella, Tieri, Rolleston and Duaringa. The area is rich in agriculture. Much of it is grazing land which has been extensively developed and improved to produce top quality beef for domestic and export markets. We have a very

productive irrigation industry supported by the mighty Fairbairn Dam and storages built along the Nogoa, Comet and Mackenzie Rivers. Crops produced include cotton, grains, table grapes and citrus. We also have a large dryland farming sector.

Located in the heart of the Bowen Basin, we are home to the largest coal reserve in Australia. A wide range of major global mining companies are active in our region. Millions of tonnes of coal are extracted by the coal industry annually and transported by rail to ports in Gladstone and Mackay. Coal seam gas is another resource that has become increasingly important to our region.

We have a range of stunning natural features that include the Carnarvon Gorge, Blackdown Tablelands, and the Peak Downs ranges. We also have large

sapphire producing fields in the area known as the Gemfields, situated 50 km west of Emerald. This is a popular destination for tourists and an important economic contributor to our local economy.

Our council has in excess of $1.9 billion in assets, including eleven library branches, six aquatic centres and swimming pools, and seven customer service and rural transaction centres. We maintain almost 5,000 kms of council roads, parks and gardens including the glorious Botanical Gardens in Emerald, the Linear Parkland in Capella, Zamia Parkland in Springsure and Mackenzie Park in Duaringa.

Mayor Kerry Hayes

Councillor Joseph Burns

Councillor Megan Daniels

Deputy Mayor Christine Rolfe

Councillor Anne Carpenter Councillor Janice Moriarty

Councillor Natalie Curtis Councillor Gai Sypher

Councillor Charlie Brimblecombe

Our history and diverse economic profile

The Central Highlands was originally home to many indigenous peoples who remain proud custodians of these lands.

Early European settlement in the region dates from the 1850s with our first pioneers mainly grazing sheep. Regional growth continued into the late 1800s with the inland expansion of the railway line west from Rockhampton and the establishment of several towns.

Significant growth occurred between 1950 and 1980, with the introduction of beef cattle grazing and development of the Fairbairn Dam, coal mining and irrigation.

Today, the Central Highlands is an area of continuous growth and diversity, presenting a wide range of opportunities to live, work, invest and play. Our vibrant region is defined by the diverse prospering economies that support our unique vibrant communities including:

„ A globally competitive coal

Benefits of a career with council

mining industry

„ Robust and resilient agriculture and horticultural industries including beef, grain, cotton, grapes, melons and citrus

„ Dynamic small to medium size businesses

„ Professional and government sectors

„ Adequate availability of commercial, industrial and residential land

„ Evolving tourism market

„ Major health and education services

„ Significant infrastructure and construction projects

Central Highlands Regional Council offers rewarding careers in local government with various opportunities available across our region.

We are a family-friendly organisation that is committed to flexible working arrangements We're proud to have been recognised as a 2019 Employer of Choice for work-life balance, recruitment and onboarding in the Human Resources Director magazine.

We were also honoured to be named the 2019 and 2022 Large Employer of the Year for Central Queensland at the Queensland Training Awards.

As an employee of council, you will enjoy a range of benefits including:

„ Induction and onboarding program

„ Flexible working arrangements

„ Comprehensive learning and development program

„ Leadership development program

„ Education assistance

„ Career development via secondment opportunities

„ Employee assistance program (also extended to immediate family members)

„ Rostered days off

„ Reward and recognition program

„ Paid parental leave and paternity/ partner leave options

„ Corporate uniforms and personal protective equipment supplied

„ Generous superannuation above legislation

„ Five weeks annual leave with 17.5% loading

„ Salary sacrificing options

„ Wide variety of roles and work tasks

„ Access to Fitness Passport program

„ Locality allowance

Council operates under a Certified Agreement which came into effect on 1 July 2021 after being voted in by 92.04% of our employees. A remarkable achievement which demonstrates the benefits and opportunities available.

LIVING IN THE REGION REGIONAL SERVICES

The Central Highlands is more than you expect!

Nestled in the heart of Central Queensland, the Central Highlands boasts strong communities, a diverse economy, pristine landscapes, expanding infrastructure and a climate that offers a great lifestyle.

Renowned for its diversity, liveability and prosperity, the Central Highlands enjoys a sub-tropical climate with nearly half of its annual rainfall

(average 636 mm) falling in the summer months of December through to February. Average summer temperatures range from 22-34°C, while the mild winters mean April through to September is peak tourist season.

The region provides a range of educational, health, sporting, cultural and recreational facilities, and stunning national parks all of which promote healthy active living and cater for the predominant population of young families.

Central Highlands is Emerald. Emerald is the commercial, retail and industrial centre and the regional base for many government departments. From Emerald, a short three hour drive will take you to Rockhampton and Brisbane is just an hour and half by plane.

The largest town in the

rate SCHOOLS HOSPITALS MEDICAL SPORT & RECREATION SHOPPING BANKING PRIMARY SECONDARY MAJOR SPECIALTY Arcadia Valley ✔ ✔ Bauhinia ✔ ✔ Blackwater ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ Bluff ✔ ✔ Capella ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ Comet ✔ ✔ ✔ Dingo ✔ ✔ Duaringa ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ Emerald ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ Gemfields ✔ ✔ ✔ Rolleston ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ Springsure ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ Tieri ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔ ✔

22-34°C

28,311

Our region offers an unparalleled idyllic lifestyle that is perfect to raise a family or expand your career. There's more time for life in the Central Highlands –watch now to see for yourself! AVERAGE AGE 34 $13.05 BILLION Region estimated output AVERAGE TEMPERATURE

There are a diverse range of services available across the Central Highlands from emergency services, hospitals and schools to services that enhance our lifestyles such as sporting and entertainment facilities, restaurants and churches.

To view a detailed list of services available by town, head to pages 10-13.

Helpful resources – clickable links:

Central Highlands Development Corporation (CHDC)

Discover Central Highlands

REMPLAN Community Profile

REMPLAN Economic Profile

www.chrc.qld.gov.au

BAUHINIA

„ Recreation hall

„ Tennis court

„ Primary school

BAUHINIA

„ Bauhinia store/service station

„ Bauhinia Sports Ground: Polocrosse, campdraft, Stock Horse Association and Pony Club

„ Race club

„ Caravan sites

„ Tennis court

„ Bauhinia community hall

„ Library

Bluff

„ Primary School

„ Racecourse

„ Store / service station

„ Football club

„ Skate park

CAPELLA DINGO BLACKWATER

„ Hospital

„ 2 Private medical clinics

„ Disability Services

„ Queensland Ambulance Service

„ Community Health Centre

„ Education facilities: Childcare centre, kindergarten, prep, 2 primary schools, high school Years 7 to 12 and outside school hours care

„ Police Services and Justice Department

„ Centrelink

„ Centacare

„ Department of Transport

„ Australia Post with Commonwealth Banking facilities

„ National Australia Bank and Australian and New Zealand Bank

„ Library Services with internet

„ Freight services

„ All sporting facilities including swimming pool, tennis and basketball courts, touch football, soccer, rugby league, rugby union and indoor and outdoor cricket pitches

„ PCYC including gymnasium

„ Private gym

„ Rodeo arena and showgrounds

„ Golf course

„ Hotels/Motels

„ Caravan parks

„ Supermarket, chemist, newsagent, service stations, butchers’ shop, video store, homeware shop, takeaway food outlets, bakery, hardware outlet, rural merchandiser, builders, plumbing and gas supplies and electricians

„ RACQ Service

„ Community Health Clinic

„ Queensland Ambulance Service

„ Rural Fire Service

„ Police Service

„ Education Facilities: Kindergarten/Daycare, state school primary (Prep to Year 6) and secondary (Years 7-12)

„ Australia Post with banking facilities

„ Library Services with internet

„ Bridgeman Park sporting facility: Covered arena with permanent seating (capacity 650) and rodeo chutes, showgrounds, football fields (rugby union), cricket pitch, polocrosse fields. Facility has powered campsites, amenities, stables, stockyards, pavilion halls, catering and bar facilities.

„ Tennis courts

„ Golf course

„ Skate park facilities

„ Aquatic Centre: pools, gymnasium, squash court and café

„ Capella Cultural Centre – 500 Seat auditorium with stage and cinema, 120 seat function room

„ Pioneer Village Heritage Museum

„ Motels, Hotel and Tavern

„ Caravan park and onsite cabins

„ Café, hairdressing salon, newsagent/hardware store, tyre and livestock outlet, industrial supplies and outlets, grain depot, service station, upholstery repairs, St Vincent De Paul and pharmacy

„ Grocery home delivery (Emerald supermarkets)

„ CTM Links (Community Development Office)

„ Churches: Anglican, Life, Catholic and Uniting

„ Mackay Transit Coaches: bus service to Mackay and return daily

Comet

„ Comet School of Arts hall

„ Post office

„ Local store

„ Historical landmark

„ Historical walking track

„ Post Office

„ Hotel with Motel units

„ Tennis courts

„ CWA Hall

„ Dingo Community Hall

„ Racetrack, rodeo and campdraft

„ Sawmill

„ Library with internet

„ Caltex

„ Caravan park

„ Air strip

„ Rural Fire Brigade

„ Prep and primary school

DUARINGA

„ Medical clinic (each Thursday)

„ Queensland Ambulance Service

„ Police Station

„ Post Office with EFTPOS

„ BP service station with RACQ service

„ Motel

„ Duaringa Sports complex: Golf course, racetrack, rodeo and campdraft

„ Football grounds

„ Prep and primary school

„ Hotel/Motel

„ Caravan park

„ Library with internet service

„ Cricket grounds

„ Tennis court

„ Tourist information centre

„ Cemetery

„ Mackenzie Park: 48hr free camping with BBQ facilities

„ Rural Fire Brigade

„ Transfer station

„ Playgroup on Tuesdays

„ Air strip

„ Washdown facility

„ SES service

www.chrc.qld.gov.au

EMERALD

„ Hospital

„ Private medical clinics

„ Queensland Ambulance Service

„ Community health centre

„ Education facilities: Childcare centres, kindergartens, state primary schools, Catholic primary schools, state secondary school, Catholic secondary college, TAFE College, Agricultural College and Central Queensland University Campus

„ Police services and Justice Department

„ Centrelink

„ Centacare

„ Department of Primary Industries

„ Department of Transport

„ Sunwater

„ Australia Post

„ Major banking institutions and Credit Unions

„ Library services

„ All sporting facilities including swimming pool, tennis, indoor basketball, squash, netball (indoor & outdoor), rugby league, rugby union, soccer, touch football and cricket pitches (indoor & outdoor), gymnasiums, PCYC and golf driving range

„ Rodeo arena and showgrounds

„ Golf course

„ Caravan parks

„ Major shopping centres with specialty stores

„ Harvey Norman

„ RACQ Service

„ Store/service station

„ Tavern/Hotel

„ Primary school

„ Sporting facilities

„ Fossicking

„ Caravan parks

„ The Capricornian Bank

„ Hospital

„ Police Services

„ Post office

„ Tavern Motel with bottleshop

„ Hotel Motel

„ Zamia Motel

„ Overlander Motel

„ Rural merchandisers

„ Spar supermarket

„ Supermarket and takeaway shop

„ Australia Post

„ Community Health Clinic

„ Queensland Ambulance Service

„ Rural Fire Services

„ Doctors surgery

„ Physiotherapist

„ Police services

„ Caltex service station

„ DBS Mechanical

„ RACQ services

„ Town Services office (Oaky Creek town services office)

„ CTM Links (Community Development Office)

„ Medical centre

„ Transaction Centre with library facility including internet/ Wi-Fi and commissioner of declarations

„ Transports and Main Roads (TMR) visiting bi-monthly

„ Doctor visiting fortnightly, nurse weekly, child health nurse and specialists visiting regularly

„ State school – kindy to year 6

„ Playgroup

„ Clubs: swimming, cricket, touch football, junior rugby union, tennis, pony, campdraft and cutting

„ Groups: painting and photography

„ Hotel/Motel

„ Caravan park – pet friendly

„ Coffee cart in the park

„ Daily freight services

„ General store, fuel, Australia Post with banking facilities, rural merchandise stores including gas supplies, vet, mechanic, builder, plumber and electrician

„ Police services

„ Gun club

„ Rifle Range

„ Football club

„ Aquatic centre

„ Skate park

„ Churches

„ Builders, plumbing and gas suppliers and electricians

„ Gymnastics and cheerleading club

„ service stations, gift shops and a hairdresser

„ Civic Centre

„ Transaction centre: Library service with internet

„ Tieri Brolga Hotel/Motel

„ Education facilities: Day care centre, kindergarten, primary school (Prep-Year 6)

„ Sport and recreation centre: Tieri gym with kid’s club facilities

„ Swimming pool

„ Skate park facilities

„ Sporting ovals, football fields, touch football club and cricket pitch

„ Peak Down Pirates rugby league

„ Tennis courts

„ Tieri Country Club Golf Course

„ Churches: Baptist

„ Food Works supermarket

„ Shopping mall including electrical shop, hairdresser, beautician, bakery, pharmacy, trade shed

www.chrc.qld.gov.au