2008-09 Annual Report · WATER AND DROUGHT The drought conditions in the Murray Darling Basin continue to directly impact upon the Council itself, as a water supply authority, and

www.berriganshire.nsw.gov.au

Annual Report 2008/09

Berrigan Shire Council

Annual Report 2008~2009

Berrigan Shire Vision The vision of Berrigan Shire Council is to create a sustainable, healthy and vibrant community that takes advantage of economic opportunities, promotes innovation and diversification, realises the potential of existing businesses and welcomes compatible strategic investment into the Shire. The Council will do this through observing the following principles, values and ethics.

CONTACTING COUNCIL Postal: PO Box 137, Berrigan NSW 2712 Phone: (03) 5888 5100 Facsimile: (03) 5885 2092 Email: [email protected] Website: www.berriganshire.nsw.gov.au Administrative Office: 56 Chanter St, Berrigan NSW 2712 Office Hours: 8.00am to 5.00pm, Monday to Friday.

Integrity Leadership

Selflessness Objectivity

Accountability Openness Honesty Respect

Trust and Teamwork Advocacy

Partnership

Page 1 Berrigan Shire Council Annual Report 2008/09

Table of Contents BERRIGAN SHIRE VISION ............................................................................................................................... 0

ABOUT THIS ANNUAL REPORT .................................................................................................................... 3

MAYOR’S REPORT ............................................................................................................................................ 4

GENERAL MANAGER’S REPORT .................................................................................................................. 6

THE YEAR IN REVIEW ................................................................................................................................... 10

YOUR COUNCILLORS .................................................................................................................................... 14

BERRIGAN SHIRE COUNCIL PROFILE ..................................................................................................... 15

ORGANISATIONAL PROFILE ............................................................................................................................... 16 ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURE ......................................................................................................................... 17 DEPARTMENTAL RESPONSIBILITY ..................................................................................................................... 18 REPRESENTATIVES ON STATE/REGIONAL ORGANISATIONS AND COUNCIL COMMITTEES ................................. 19 COMMITTEES OF MANAGEMENT ....................................................................................................................... 20 COMMUNITY FINANCIAL REPORT ..................................................................................................................... 21 INCOME STATEMENT ......................................................................................................................................... 21 REVENUE .......................................................................................................................................................... 23 BALANCE SHEET ............................................................................................................................................... 23 HOW HEALTHY IS COUNCIL’S LIQUIDITY? ........................................................................................................ 26 WHAT IS COUNCIL’S DEBT STRATEGY? ............................................................................................................ 28 STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS ............................................................................................................................ 29 STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY ................................................................................................................ 30 SUMMARY ......................................................................................................................................................... 31

CORPORATE SERVICES ................................................................................................................................ 32

FINANCE ........................................................................................................................................................... 32 Finance Report ............................................................................................................................................ 32 Contracts in Excess of $150,000 ................................................................................................................. 34 Rates and amounts written off during 2008/09 ............................................................................................ 34 Councillor Fees, Expenses and Facilities ................................................................................................... 35 Senior Staff .................................................................................................................................................. 36 Donations and Grants ................................................................................................................................. 36 Land Sales ................................................................................................................................................... 37 Condition of Public Works and Buildings ................................................................................................... 37

ADMINISTRATION.............................................................................................................................................. 39 External bodies exercising functions delegated by the Council .................................................................. 39 Interest in Companies .................................................................................................................................. 39 Partnerships, Co-operatives or Other Joint Ventures ................................................................................. 39 Business Activities ....................................................................................................................................... 40 Overseas Visits ............................................................................................................................................ 40 Work Carried Out on Private Land ............................................................................................................. 40 Privacy and Personal Information .............................................................................................................. 41

HUMAN RESOURCES ......................................................................................................................................... 41 Human Resource Activities undertaken by the Council ............................................................................... 41 Equal Opportunity Management ................................................................................................................. 42

COMMUNITY AND CULTURAL ACTIVITIES ........................................................................................................ 42 Access and Equity ........................................................................................................................................ 43 Cultural and Linguistic Diversity ................................................................................................................ 45 Cultural Services ......................................................................................................................................... 45 Library Services........................................................................................................................................... 47

TOURISM ........................................................................................................................................................... 53 BUSH FIRE CONTROL ........................................................................................................................................ 54

TECHNICAL SERVICES.................................................................................................................................. 57

ROADS .............................................................................................................................................................. 57 SEWER SERVICES .............................................................................................................................................. 58 WATER SERVICES ............................................................................................................................................. 58 STORMWATER & DRAINAGE ............................................................................................................................. 59

Stormwater Management Service Charge ................................................................................................... 60


WASTE MANAGEMENT...................................................................................................................................... 60 KERB & GUTTER ............................................................................................................................................... 61 FOOTPATHS ....................................................................................................................................................... 62 STREET LIGHTING ............................................................................................................................................. 62 PARKS & GARDENS ........................................................................................................................................... 62 ASSET MANAGEMENT ....................................................................................................................................... 62

DEVELOPMENT AND BUILDING CONTROL ............................................................................................ 63

ANIMAL CONTROL ............................................................................................................................................ 66 STATE OF THE ENVIRONMENT REPORT ............................................................................................................. 68 PLANNING AGREEMENTS .................................................................................................................................. 68

COUNCIL FACILITIES .................................................................................................................................... 69

FINLEY LIVESTOCK EXCHANGE ........................................................................................................................ 69 TOCUMWAL AERODROME ................................................................................................................................. 69 SWIMMING POOLS ............................................................................................................................................. 69 CARAVAN PARKS .............................................................................................................................................. 70 CEMETERIES...................................................................................................................................................... 70

ORGANISATIONAL DEVELOPMENT ......................................................................................................... 71

ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ........................................................................................................................ 72

FREEDOM OF INFORMATION ..................................................................................................................... 78

ANNUAL STATISTICAL REPORT ......................................................................................................................... 78 STATEMENT OF AFFAIRS ................................................................................................................................... 79

Organisation Structure ................................................................................................................................ 79 Functions ..................................................................................................................................................... 79 Decision Making Functions ......................................................................................................................... 80 Community Participation ............................................................................................................................ 80 Public Documents ........................................................................................................................................ 80 Operational Information.............................................................................................................................. 84

APPENDICES ..................................................................................................................................................... 85

Appendix 1 – Payment of Expenses and Provision of Facilities Policy 2008/09 ......................................... 85

(ADOPTED 15/10/08) ......................................................................................................................................... 98

Appendix 2 – Annual Financial Statements ................................................................................................. 99 Appendix 3 – State of the Environment Report 2007/08


About this Annual Report Each year the Council produces an Annual Report to review its performance and achievements for the past financial year. The document is designed to provide an insight into the Council’s operations and financial position, and indicate how the Council has performed in achieving the activities it set for itself. While the production of an Annual Report is a statutory requirement under the Local Government Act 1993, the Council also sees this document as a key indicator of the Council’s commitment to open, transparent, and accountable governance. The Council’s Annual Report aims to provide its customers with a clear understanding of the Council’s responsibilities and activities. The following Annual Report includes information on: • The achievements and challenges faced by the Council during the financial year; • Information about Council operations during the 2008/09 financial year; • An outline of Council services; • Performance against the objectives set out in the Council’s Corporate Plan; • The Financial Statements for the 2008/09 financial year; • 2008/2009 Comprehensive State of Environment Report and • Other information required by the Local Government Act 1993.


Mayor’s Report The Local Government election in September, 2008 brought to the Council a renewed enthusiasm and the election of Crs. Matthew Hannan, Brian Hill and Colin Jones to serve their first turn as Councillors. They joined with reelected Councillors, Fred Cuthbert, Elizabeth McLaurin, Bernard Curtin and Viv McGee and myself to form the Council that will serve the Berrigan Shire for the next four years. The new Council has quickly developed into a very cohesive and cooperative unit providing good governance and policy direction for the residents and ratepayers of the Berrigan Shire.

In making this report it is again disappointing that I have to write about the climatic conditions that continue to plaque our Shire. The past year again saw rainfall way below average, resulting in again, very low water allocation for our farming community. Over the years our economy has been built on the back of irrigated agriculture and the flow on effect it has had to our business communities. We are now being confronted with our fourth year of drought and one can only wonder at the resilience of our communities in meeting this challenge. Council fully understands the need to support our communities in meeting these climatic challenges and also the effects of ever changing Government policy on water. We have strongly supported the Riverina and Murray Regional Organisation of Councils “Water4Food” program and have been a leader in joining with our neighboring Councils, again through RamRoc as part of the Federal Government “Sustainable Communities” program in applying for funding to carry out a socio-economic study of our region and in particular the Berrigan Shire as a response to the Government Buy-Back of water allocations. Whilst again recognizing the need to provide the level of services which our residents and ratepayers are entitled, we have also been able to deliver in partnership with the community a number of new projects which included: • The opening of the Berrigan Library • Opening of the Community Function Centre at Tocumwal • Purchase of the Murray Irrigation Limited building at Finley for a new library. • Construction of a community function centre at Berrigan Sportsground supported by

funding from the Federal Government’s Local Government Strategic projects stimulus package.

Special mention must also be made of our engineering and outdoor staff in delivering their capital works program. Through our strategic roads program we continue to witness a steady upgrade in our roads network. Congratulations must go to all staff on this outcome and the quality of the completed works, whether it be roads, footpaths or kerb and gutter.


The past year has again seen the Council continue to support our communities and especially the volunteers within those communities who give so generously of their time, through our OH&S training program. The Council continued to support the youth of our Shire through a range of activities, and this was clearly evident with the formation of the Finley Youth Committee. The fact that the program developed by this Committee for the youth of our Shire was recognised by the NSW Government with financial support and a visit from Minister Graham West, Minister for Youth Affairs, was of great encouragement to both the adults and students who are involved. Thankyou to all staff, both indoor and outdoor, for the contribution you make to the wellbeing of the residents of our Shire. Finally, thankyou to my fellow Councillors and senior management staff for the support and the advice I have received during the year. I congratulate you all on the manner in which we have been able to work together to make decisions which we believe are in the best interest of our Shire. JOHN BRUCE MAYOR


General Manager’s Report The 2008/2009 year has seen the election of a new Council that commenced during September 2008. Such elections provide an opportunity for change and in this Council’s case the elections saw three new and five sitting Councillors elected. This balance of existing and new Councillors allows for new ideas and also a degree of stability. The new Council has quickly melded into a cohesive unit that is focused on taking the community forward. The new Council has also had to confront issues not previously experienced and related to the Global Financial Crisis that created an environment of rapidly declining investment returns and increased superannuation

contributions for those staff within defined benefit superannuation funds. These two issues have significantly impacted upon the Council’s capacity to deliver its services and to plan future services levels. Additionally, the Global Financial Crisis has impacted heavily upon development in the Shire that has seen a steep reduction in approvals for new dwellings and the loss of significant commercial and residential developments. WATER AND DROUGHT The drought conditions in the Murray Darling Basin continue to directly impact upon the Council itself, as a water supply authority, and the community at large. The drought has seen a huge reduction in the economic value of the area’s largest economic driver, the primary sector. The drought has seen the elimination of the local rice production industry, a 25% reduction in the number of participants in the diary industry and much reduced productions of grains, cattle and sheep. These reductions most dramatically effect farming operations but also flow through the whole community with resultant effects on local business activity and employment levels. The drought effects are being unnecessarily compounded by the Federal Governments un-coordinated water buy back program that threatens to permanently reduce the value of irrigated production in this Shire and the greater region. Much of this long term impact could be eliminated through a properly structured and targeted program. The Council and others in the region have combined with businesses and service clubs in an attempt to address the effects of the buy back program through the development of the Water4Food Program that aims to both promote the value of irrigation and food security and also influence federal thinking to achieve a better more targeted impact for the regions. The outcomes of this Program are yet to be seen. The ongoing drought conditions have a created a situation of continual urban water restrictions. These restrictions have been generally well supported by the community however the quantity of water saved is relatively small. While the community continues to restrict water usage this reduced consumption has only a minor effect


on the cost of water supply provision and reflects in significantly increased consumption charges per kilolitre supplied. While most consumers are not seeing great increase in consumption bills they are certainly not seeing reduced bills despite reduced water usage. This paradox is not unique to the Council but does raise the question of the long term suitability of largely consumption based tariffs. The Council had previously increased water storage at Berrigan to cater for reduced flows through the Mulwala Canal. This year the Council completed similar works at Finley that has seen significantly increased storage capacity. Both of these works were jointly funded by the Council and the State Government. RISK MANAGEMENT The Council’s range of risk exposures and responsibilities saw it appoint an Enterprise Risk Manager to take an organization wide approach to manage these. This is in contrast to the Council’s previous practice of dealing with these issues on a departmental or individual staff member basis. This co-ordinated approach has seen a consistent approach to assessing and managing risk across the organization. Importantly, the Council now has the ability to prioritize risk management across competing responsibilities such as public liability, occupational health and safety etc to ensure its resources are directed to the highest area of need. IMPROVEMENT TO RECREATION FACILITIES The past twelve months has seen significant progress made with upgrading of Recreation Reserve facilities at Tocumwal and Berrigan. Tocumwal Recreation Reserve has seen the establishment of new function rooms, change rooms, netball courts and cricket nets. These facilities were funded through contributions by the Federal Government, through its Regional Partnerships Program, the State Government, through Regional Sporting Facilities Program, the Council and the community under the guidance of the Tocumwal Football Netball Club. Berrigan Sportsground social and function rooms are being replaced following the Council’s decision to allocate the Federal Government’s Regional Community Local Infrastructure Program funding to this project. Funding has also been provided by the Council and the community for this replacement. Both of the above projects emanate from the Council’s long term plan to upgrade all of its major recreational facilities leaving Finley and Barooga Recreation Reserves yet to be addressed. FINLEY LIBRARY AND EARLY INTERVENTION SERVICE The Council’s Library Strategic Plan has seen new libraries developed at Tocumwal, Barooga and Berrigan. During this year the Council committed itself to develop alternatives to improve library facilities at Finley. Following this investigation the Council has purchased the former Murray Irrigation Ltd building at Finley to redevelop as a new library facility and to also accommodate its Early Intervention Service and to provide much needed facilities for the Berriquin Toy Library Service.


The new facility will be progressively renovated and redeveloped to relocate these services. FINLEY SALEYARDS The Council previously considered future options for the future of Finley Saleyards and as a result of this entered into a 12 month lease of the facility to a private operator. While both the operator and the Council would have preferred a longer term arrangement this was not possible due to the 2008 Council election and restrictions on the Council’s ability to enter into long term binding commitments in the run to the election. Given the election of a new Council, staff are now preparing a longer term lease for consideration by the parties. STAFF ATTRACTION AND RETENTION The Council has been offering two types of scholarships to both help retain local youth in the area and to provide future professional skills for the Council. This year has seen the first outcome from this process with a local resident achieving qualifications as an Environmental Health Officer and commencing employment with the Council. Under this specific program assistance with vacation employment and school materials was provided and future HECS fees will be met by the Council, provided employment with the Council continues. Despite this good result the Council continues to experience difficulty in attracting staff to key professional positions. While the Council can implement programs to enhance its ability to attract such staff it is unable to address the underlying issue of skills shortages. TOWNSCAPE IMPROVEMENT WORKS The Council has returned to the Finley Townscape Improvement Plan to complete a final stage in this project. With the development of residential land at Maloney Mews and Lewis Crescent and the creation of Railway Park the Council sees the creation of an effective link from the CBD through Warmatta Street as critical to the success of the area. The works will see previous one way traffic restrictions at Warmatta Street removed and the street widened and beautified to create an appealing link to the Pioneer Rail precinct including Railway Park. As stated earlier, this report reflects upon the first year of the current Council’s term. I would like to thank the Council for its cooperation and assistance in achieving many of its goals over the term. There have been many great achievements over the term and while there has been some disappointments these have been progressed professionally and impartially by the Council which is something they can be proud of.


I would also like to express my appreciation to all of the Council staff without whom goals could not be delivered. Lastly, I believe that the Council has shown it can work constructively with the community for its long term betterment. Whilst there is obviously not always agreement on all issues there does appear to be an environment of trust and respect that allows issues to be worked through and resolved constructively. This environment will give the community and the Council the best chance of success into the future.

ROWAN PERKINS GENERAL MANAGER


The Year in Review JULY • Berrigan Library was officially opened. The opening realized the completion of

the Council’s Library Strategic Plan that was adopted in 1995 and proposed the replacement of Tocumwal, Barooga and Berrigan Libraries as well as ongoing service improvements and expansions.

• The Council joined the Country Mayors Association of NSW following an invitation

from it. The Council initially took out membership for a twelve month period to assess its value and to improve its lobbying capacity at a State level.

• The Strategic Economic Development Plan was reviewed and refined by the

Council to ensure its continued relevance.

AUGUST • Riverina and Murray Regional Organization of Councils was formed when

Berrigan Shire Council joined with 17 other Councils in the region. The Councils were formerly represented by two smaller organizations being RIVROC and MUROC. It is anticipated that the larger single organization will improve organization effectiveness through improved lobbying and representative power.

• Finley Stock Selling Centre was leased to a private operator to reduce Council

costs and enhance its survival in the longer term. Only a single year lease was initially entered into as the Council was in caretaker mode pending the September 2008 elections. The new Council will determine the longer term position in relation to the yards.

• The Council adopted new, three year, Social and Cultural Plans. • Water meters were replaced with new electronic meters that allow remote reading

and reduce reading costs. These meters also have the capability to provide live readings so that water consumption can be monitored constantly and possibly be available to consumers via the Council’s website.

SEPTEMBER • Elections were held that saw the new Council elected comprising;

Cr John Bruce Cr Bernard Curtin Cr Fred Cuthbert Cr Matthew Hannan Cr Brian Hill Cr Colin Jones Cr Vivian McGee Cr Elizabeth McLaurin Cr’s Debra Wright and Jennifer Hawkins were not re elected. Cr Bruce was subsequently elected as the Mayor for 2008/2009 with Cr Curtin elected as Deputy Mayor.


• The Mayor participated in the Sir Roden Cutler Wheelchair roll along with the Mayors of Jerilderie and Conargo Shire Councils. The aim of the roll is to increase awareness of what people with disabilities achieve and the support that is provided by their carers.

OCTOBER • “Seniors on the Web” returns with support of the Lions Club of Berrigan to deliver

computer training sessions to local seniors. • The Council agrees to provide financial assistance to Tocumwal Football Club Inc

to ensure completion of new clubrooms at Tocumwal Recreation Reserve.

NOVEMBER • An Occupational Health and Safety Action Plan is adopted by the Council to

improve safety of Council staff and the public and to provide improved OH&S co-ordination across all of the Council’s operations.

• The onset of the Global Financial Crisis leads to a review of the Council’s

investment policy. The adopted policy is more conservative than the one it replaces and lends more weight to capital protection than earnings.

• The legal status of the Council (and all others in NSW) is changed by the State

Government from a “body corporate” to “body politic of the state” in a move designed to see the Council subject to the State industrial system and not the Federal “Workchoices” system.

• The Council announces the winners in its annual Alexander Garden Competition

after the annual judging. The winners from each town of the best garden as viewed from the roadway/best environmentally friendly garden were:

Mr & Mrs JA Boldiston Overall Winner 62 Townsend Street FINLEY 2713 Mr & Mrs CJ Way 144-146 Jerilderie Street BERRIGAN 2712 Mr & Mrs I Yeaman 2/4 Wiruna Street BAROOGA 3644 Ms AE Young & Mr JRN Sadlier 1/12 Ingo Renner Drive TOCUMWAL 2712

DECEMBER • After community consultation the Council adopts a Library Service – Children and

Young Persons Policy. The aim of the policy is to clarify the Council’s roles and responsibilities for children and young people using the library service.


• Responding to the Global Financial Crisis the Federal Government announce the Regional Community Local Infrastructure Program as a part of its stimulus package. The Council receives $457,000 under the program which is allocated towards the construction of new social and function rooms at Berrigan Sportsground.

• Andrew Martin completes a placement with the Shire as the 2008 Bush Bursary

Student. The Bush Bursary Program aims to introduce NSW medical students to rural life and rural medical systems and support services.

JANUARY • Tocumwal Aerodrome hosts the Victorian Aerobatics Championships. • The Council accepts a tender for the construction and commissioning of fluoride

dosing plants at Tocumwal and Barooga. Finalization of these works will see all town water supplies fluoridated.

• The Shire’s annual Australia Day celebrations were held at Barooga.

FEBRUARY • The Council adopts a draft “Outdoor Dining and Footpath Trading” policy for

public consultation. The aim of the policy is to encourage outdoor dining and trading on footpaths in commercial areas while protecting pedestrian access.

• The Council conducts its Corporate Workshop to develop plans for future Council

activities. • A writing workshop is held at Tocumwal library to assist residents wishing to

develop their skills.

MARCH • The Council and other RAMROC Councils develop the “Water4Food” strategy to

develop and roll out an integrated strategy to protect irrigated food producers, processors and communities from the impacts of:

o political and regulatory responses to drought and climate change o market reforms which unfairly restrict water availability to food

producers o environmental activism ideologically opposed to irrigation o ongoing political and cultural change

• Tender for the construction of the new Berrigan Sportsground social and function

rooms is accepted by the Council. • The Council purchases the Murray Irrigation premises at Finley to provide new

facilities for the Finley branch library, the Early Intervention Service and Berriquin Toy Library.

APRIL • The Council is advised of significant increase in superannuation contributions for

those staff in a defined benefits superannuation scheme. The increased


contributions flows from the Global Financial Crisis and compounds the Council’s diminishing investment returns.

• The first meeting of the Berrigan and Jerilderie Shire Police precinct Committee is

held. These meetings replace the former Police Advisory Community Team meetings which covered the entire Deniliquin Local Area Command.

• Another successful business and Environment awards night was held.

MAY • The Council continues to lobby for the demolition of the old Cobram Barooga

bridge after being made aware that the RTA and VicRoads are proposing to spend approximately $700,000 renovating it. The Council believes that those funds would be better spent maintaining operational parts of the road network.

• The Council elected in September adopts its first draft Management Plan. • The Council is required by CASA to adopt a drug and Alcohol Management Plan

for Tocumwal Aerodrome.

JUNE • The Council agrees to provide office space to Murray Catchment Management

Authority after it is forced to scale back operations due to cuts in funding from other levels of government.

• Financial assistance is agreed to be provided to developers of a new supermarket

at Berrigan. • Another successful jobs expo is conducted with and at Finley High School. • The Council agrees to join the River Red Gum Environmental Alliance to help

fight against the arbitrary decision to stop logging in local red gum forests.


Your Councillors

CR JOHN BRUCE Mayor Elected: 14 February 1998

CR BERNARD CURTIN Deputy Mayor Elected: 27 March 2004

CR FRED CUTHBERT Elected: 27 September 1983

CR BRIAN HILL Elected: 13 September 2008

CR VIV MCGEE Elected: 27 March 2004

CR ELIZABETH MCLAURIN Elected: 11 September 1999

CR COLIN JONES Elected: 13 September 2008

CR MATTHEW HANNAN Elected: 13 September 2009


Berrigan Shire Council Profile Berrigan Shire is strategically located on the Murray River, in the heart of the agriculturally rich Southern Riverina region of NSW. Covering 2067 square kilometres, the Shire has a population of around 8446 people and includes the towns of Barooga, Berrigan, Finley and Tocumwal. Finley is the Shire's largest town with a population of around 2170. Tocumwal has a population of about 1980, Barooga around 1560, and Berrigan 950. The remaining population live in rural areas. Each town has a strong retail and service sector that meets the needs of its local and visiting population. The Shire also has health and education infrastructure that is the envy of other areas. Agriculture in the area is diverse with livestock, pasture crops, grains, oilseeds, vegetables, fruit, wine grapes and dairy production among a range of agricultural pursuits. Unlike many other rural areas across Australia, all of the towns within the Shire are experiencing positive residential growth with the most rapid changes being seen in Tocumwal and Barooga. Growth in Barooga is largely being driven by industrial and commercial development across the river in Victoria, whilst growth in Tocumwal is being fuelled by the "inland sea-change" phenomenon that is bringing large numbers of retirees to the area. Whilst primary production and tourism are the two largest industries in the Shire these have both been impacted over the preceding twelve months through the effects of continuing drought and the global financial crisis. While the effect of the drought upon primary production is well known the effect upon tourism is not so well known. The low river flows experienced during the drought also impact upon visitors to the area through reduced camping, fishing, boating etc.. The drought also reduces the capacity to maintain the quality recreational facilities, such as golf courses and bowling greens, which are key tourist attractions. Berrigan Shire offers its population vibrant healthy communities where life is a pleasure. With the low cost of living, residents enjoy a laid-back lifestyle, recreational pursuits, good health services and the benefits of being close to major regional cities like Albury Wodonga and Shepparton, while Melbourne is just under three hours drive away. It’s the type of location many can only dream of! These attributes have led to a situation where all towns within the Shire are experiencing positive residential growth, with the highest growth rates being experienced in Barooga and Tocumwal. While this speaks well for the sustainability of the area, it does provide a number of challenges in terms of servicing the social and infrastructure needs of changing communities.

POPULATION BY TOWN

0

500

1000

1500

2000

2500

Barooga Berrigan Finley Tocumwal Non-townAreas


Organisational Profile

HISTORY Berrigan Shire Council was constituted on 7 March 1906 with the initial meeting of the temporary Council held in the local Court House on 13 June 1906. The first meeting of the Council was held on Friday 30 November 1906.

TOWNSHIPS The Shire includes the four townships of Barooga, Berrigan, Finley and Tocumwal.

AREA 2067 square kilometres.

POPULATION The estimated residential population of Berrigan Shire as at 30 June 2007 was 8,446 people. The Council estimates that the urban population is increasing, while the rural population is in decline. Overall population is fairly stable with a slight increase in the last 12 months. Estimated town populations are as follows:

Barooga 1,560 Berrigan 942 Finley 2,168 Tocumwal 1,976

The remaining population of approximately 1,800 persons live in rural areas of the Shire.

COUNCIL STAFF The Council is one of the Shire’s major employers and employs the full-time equivalent of 83 staff members.

VALUATION BASE For the purposes of rating, “land value” may be defined as the value a parcel of land might be expected to realise if offered for sale, assuming that no improvement had been made (other than land improvements). In 2007/08 the value of rateable property in Berrigan Shire was $426,102, 821.

ASSESSMENTS No. of Assessments %

June 2009 June 2008 Change

Water 3557 3,534 0.6%

Sewer 3324 3,297 0.8%

General (Rateable) 4853 4,797 1.2%

ROAD LENGTHS Urban Roads 123 km Rural Roads 1,137 km Regional Roads 108 km Total Roads 1,368 km (The above total excludes the Riverina & Newell Highways (88km within Berrigan Shire), of which the Council has full financial responsibility for the outside trafficable improved pavement lanes of around 6km of road.)


Organisational Structure

GENERAL MANAGER Rowan Perkins

DIR CORPORATE SERVICES

Matthew Hansen

DIR TECHNICAL SERVICES

Fred Exton

ENTERPRISE RISK MANAGER

Michelle Koopman

GENERAL MANAGER’S PERSONAL ASSISTANT

Alva Spence

TRAINEE

LIBRARY MANAGER Anne Nevins

2.0 EFT

FINANCE MANAGER Angela Slater

EARLY INTERVENTION Margaret Graham

COMMUNITY SERV. COORDINATOR

Libby Quick .5 EFT

DEVELOPMENT MANAGER

Wayne Chisholm

EXECUTIVE ENGINEER Graham Henderson

WORKS ENGINEER Phil McDonald

38 EFT

ENVIRONMENTAL ENGINEER Muneeb Sunna

10 EFT

Senior Admin Officer Kellie White

Building Surveyor Paul Riley

Town Planner Laurie Stevens

Enviro Liaison Officer Scott Ansell

Technical Officer Assets Management Tony Davis

Design Officer Shannon Galea

Storeperson David Hughes

Payroll Officer Karen Hanna

Accounts Clerk Laura Clements

Information Technology Peter Murphy

Finance Officer Arlena Pyle

Revenue Officer Shane Jukes

Water & Safety Officer

Paul Kelly

Assistant Revenue Officer Jillien van Bommel

SUPPORT OFFICER Melissa Arnold

Trainee Surveillance Officer

Administration Officer Brittany Dunn

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT OFFICER

Andrew Richardson (.6 EFT)

Asset Maintenance Officer

Andrew Polkinghorne

Technical Officer DesignLen Soule

ECON. DEV. OFFICER vacant


Departmental Responsibility

TECHNICAL SERVICES Director: Mr Fred Exton

Areas of Responsibility:

• Roads • Bridges • Depot • Animal Control • Footpaths • Drainage • Parks & Gardens

• Water & Sewerage • Health Services • Building Control • Waste Control • Town Planning • Council Buildings • Development

CORPORATE SERVICES Director: Mr Matthew Hansen

Areas of Responsibility:

• Administration • Finance • Rates & Charges • Land Sales • Saleyards • Early Intervention • Public Officer (FOI) • Community Assistance • Libraries • Swimming Pools

• Bush Fire Control • HACC Services • Tourism • Human Resources • Cemeteries • Aerodrome • Caravan Parks • Social & Cultural Planning


Representatives on State/Regional Organisations and Council Committees

COUNCIL COMMITTEES Committee Representative

Technical Services All Councillors with a quorum of 2

Corporate Services All Councillors with a quorum of 2

Business and Economic Development Crs. J Bruce, F Cuthbert, C Jones and B Curtin with a quorum of 2

Consultative Committee Crs. J Bruce and V McGee

Barooga Advancement Group Crs. J Bruce and C Jones

Finley Community Planning Committee Crs. F Cuthbert and B Hill

Tocumwal Swimming Pool Committee of Management Cr. E McLaurin and C Jones

Finley Recreation Reserve Committee of Management Cr. B Hill

Finley Showground and Sporting Complex Committee of Management

Cr. M Hannan

Risk Management Committee Mayor

Youth Development Committee Mayor, General Manager and Crs B Hill and M Hannan

REGIONAL ORGANISATIONS Committee Delegate/Representative

Central Murray County Council (Noxious Plants) Crs. E McLaurin and V McGee

Central Murray Flood Plain Management Committee Cr. E McLaurin and the Town Planner

Murray Darling Association Crs. B Curtin and V McGee

Rural Fire Service District Liaison Committee Crs. J Bruce, Director of Corporate Services and Cr V McGee as alternate delegate

Rural Fire Service Bush Fire Management Committee Cr J Bruce and Director Technical Services

South West Arts Crs. E McLaurin and B Hill

RAMROC The Mayor and the General Manager

Murray Valley Community Action Group Crs V McGee and F Cuthbert

Inland Rail Alliance Mayor, General Manager with the Deputy Mayor to attend meetings


Committees of Management The following Committees of Management operate under Section 355 of the Local Government Act, 1993: • Australia Day Committee

• Barooga Advancement Group

• Barooga Community Botanical Gardens Committee

• Barooga Recreation Reserve

• Berrigan Conservation & Tidy Towns

• Berrigan Shire Heritage Committee

• Berrigan Sportsground Committee

• Berrigan War Memorial Hall

• Berrigan War Memorial Swimming Pool

• Berriquin Community Toy Library

• Boomanoomana Landcare Committee

• Finley Log Cabin Museum & Mary Lawson Wayside Rest Committee

• Finley Community Help Group

• Finley Pioneer Rail Committee

• Finley Railway Park

• Finley Recreation Reserve Committee of Management

• Finley Showground Sporting Complex Committee

• Finley Tidy Towns

• Finley War Memorial Hall & School of Arts

• Finley War Memorial Swimming Pool

• Fullers Road Landcare

• Native Dog Landcare Group

• Retreat Public Hall

• Tocumwal Foreshore

• Tocumwal Friends of the Library Group

• Tocumwal Historical Aerodrome Museum

• Tocumwal Rail Preservation Committee

• Tocumwal Recreation Reserve Committee

• Tocumwal Swimming Pool Committee

• Tocumwal War Memorial Hall


Community Financial Report The Community Financial Report is designed to interpret and explain the Council’s financial position to interested parties, including the general community, in an easy to understand format. It is a summary only, more detailed information can be found in the Council’s Audited Financial Statements which are at the rear of this report.

Income Statement These figures demonstrate that while Berrigan Shire Council has been able to provide increased services to the community while maintaining a surplus of funds from our yearly operations, the Council is actually running at a loss before capital grants and contributions received by the Council are taken into account. This means that the Council did not generate sufficient funds to meet its expenses from its own activities and relied on grants and developer contributions for items such as the replacement and restoration of its assets into the future.

2008/09 Result

Total revenue (funds received) $19.2 m

Less total expenses (funds spent) $15.9 m

Surplus (funds remaining for future projects) $3.3 m

COMPARATIVE TREND ANALYSIS 2004/05 2005/061 2006/072 2007/08 2008/093

Revenue $13.6 m $19.9 m $15.6 m $16.2 m $19.2m

Expenditure $11.6 m $17.5 m $13.9 m $15.2 m $15.9m

Surplus Surplus before Capital grants & contribution

$2.0 m $1.3m

$2.3 m $0.9m

$1.7m $0.8m

$1.0 m ($0.8)m

$3.3m

($0.4)m

1 Includes revenue and expenditure relating to the Ballerini Court Case ($5.205m). 2 Includes revenue and expenditure relating to the Ballerini Court Case ($0.85m). 3.Includes $0.9m of 2009/10 Financial Assistance Grant received in advance


Financial Situation The financial situation is not unreasonable but is not desirable and will need to be closely monitored. Returning to a position of making surpluses without capital grants and contributions will be difficult due to a combination of:

• Rising costs of inputs such as labour and oil-based products such as fuel and bitumen

• An inflexible revenue raising capacity due largely to the State Government’s “rate-capping” policy

• Commitments to maintain its existing level of expenditure of roads as a result of accepting grant funding under the Federal Government’s “Roads to Recovery” scheme

• Increasing depreciation costs as a result of the upwards revaluation of the Council’s assets through its continuing asset revaluation program. While an increase in the value of the Council’s assets improves its Balance Sheet position, it also directly increases the amount of depreciation on those assets the Council is required to take to the Income Statement each year.

TOTAL REVENUE - WHERE DID THE MONEY COME FROM?


TOTAL EXPENSES – HOW WAS THE MONEY SPENT?

Revenue Ordinary rates provide 19% of the Council’s revenue, with the total of all rates and charges contributing 40% of total consolidated revenues. The balance is made up of user charges, government grants, profit from disposal of assets, interest and developer contributions – the largest item being operating grants and contributions (31%); the single most important source of revenue. Revenue in 2008-09 also includes two large non-cash items:

• $2.86m of infrastructure assets related to subdivisions and facilities at Recreation Reserves that were handed over to the Council by the developers. While this has improved the Council’s operating surplus in 2008-09, it will require the Council to depreciate and maintain these assets over time.

• $124k Fair Value adjustment. This relates to the difference between the actual cost of constructing an asset and the value that the Council is required to show for these assets in its Balance Sheet.

Balance Sheet The Balance Sheet measures what the Council owns and owes to relevant stakeholders at the end of the financial year. The result of these two components determines the net wealth of the Council, which is the net wealth of the community. Most of the increase in the Council’s net asset (equity) position is a result of the revaluation of the Council’s Land, Building and Plant and Equipment assets. This revaluation did not generate any new assets for the Council but brought to account the full value of these assets. On the other side, it will increase the Council’s depreciation expense in future years


The Council repaid a $6m advance required to fund legal expenses in the Ballerini decision in 2007/08. The funds to pay this advance came from the Council being paid the amounts owing to them through the HIH Rescue Package.

2008/09 Result

Assets (what the community owns) $182.0 m

Less liabilities (what the community owes) $4.0 m

Equity (community wealth) $178.0 m

COMPARATIVE TREND ANALYSIS 2004/05 2005/061 2006/072 2007/083 2008/09

Assets $84.8 m $146.3 m $168.5 m $176.8 m $182.0

Less Liability $4.3 m $8.8 m $10.2 m $3.9 m $4.0

Equity $80.5 m $137.5 m $158.3 m $172.9 m $178.0

1. includes assets and liabilities associated with the Ballerini court case. The large increase in assets is as

a result of the revaluation of the Council’s road network. 2. includes assets and liabilities associated with the Ballerini court case. The increase in assets is as a

result of the revaluation of the Council’s water and sewer network. 3. the increase in assets is as a result of the revaluation of the council’s land, buildings and plant and

equipment.


WHAT DO OUR ASSETS CONSIST OF?

Property plant and equipment includes the Council’s infrastructure such as roads, water supply, sewerage mains and treatment, and stormwater and drainage infrastructure. It also includes buildings owned by the Council, trucks and heavy machinery, and office equipment.

Property Plant & Equipment:

Total Value – $168.3 m

Roads 53.3% Water Supply 15.9% Sewerage 8.8% Buildings, Land & Improvements 16.3% Other Assets 1.1% Stormwater 3.0% Plant & Equipment 1.6%

Cash assets include the Council’s bank deposits, term deposits, managed funds and other cash holdings held for future use. Receivables are the funds owed to the Council by other parties, including ratepayers, government departments and other organisations. Inventories include the goods held by the Council for use in its operations such as fuel, gravel, pipes and the like.


WHAT DO OUR LIABILITIES CONSIST OF?

Provisions cover the amounts put aside by the Council for future commitments such as employee entitlements (annual leave, etc) and remediation of the Council’s tips and quarries. Borrowings include those amounts borrowed by the Council to fund investments in community assets. Payables are amounts that the Council owes other parties and including government departments and suppliers. It also accounts for rates and charges paid in advance.

How Healthy is Council’s Liquidity? Another important indication in determining the financial health of an organisation is to measure its ability to meet commitments when they fall due. This indicator is commonly known as the working capital or liquidity ratio and examines the value between short-term assets and liabilities. A result better than a one-to-one ratio reflects a strong ability by an organisation to have sufficient funds to continue to maintain its cash flows and hence meet its commitments. The liquidity ratio indicates that the Council has the ability to pay its debts as and when they fall due. The stability of the ratio indicates the strength of the Council's position and is consistent with the strong liquidity position of prior years. The decline in the ratios during 2005/06 and 2006/07 years relates mainly to an increase in current liabilities as a result of the NSW Treasury advance taken to pay out damages and legal costs awarded in the Ballerini case.


LIQUIDITY RATIO

CASH & INVESTMENT BALANCES FOR THE LAST 5 YEARS ($000’S)


What is Council’s Debt Strategy? Berrigan Shire Council is required to effectively manage its level of debt while allowing for efficient use of loan funds where appropriate. To do this the Council has developed a debt strategy. In broad terms, the strategy allows borrowing in areas that create a financial return on the assets Council invests in – such as water supply, sewerage and property development. The strategy discourages borrowing for those activities where a financial return is not possible or desired, including road construction, offices, libraries and sporting facilities. The strategy allows the Council sufficient flexibility to borrow funds in these areas if necessary. The following reflects the Council’s total outstanding debt over the past five years, and the commitment to manage debt matched against a capital works expenditure program. The Council has been able to maintain its capital expenditure while continuing to repay loans. Two long term loans were paid out in full over the 2008/09 financial year. These loans were used to fund works at Finley Saleyard and the Tocumwal Swimming Pool. In 2005 and 2006, the effects of the Ballerini decision on Council’s debt levels can be seen.

DEBT V’S CAPITAL EXPENDITURE

* The above graph includes the debts or expenditure relating the Ballerini court case.


DEBT PER CAPITA The debt per capita ratio shows how much debt is shared by the Shire’s residents on a per capita basis. Council’s debt per capita ratio has declined from $206 to $100 over the five year period. The effect of the loan to fund costs incurred in the Ballerini decision can be seen in the 2005/06 and 2006/07 years.

PERCENTAGE OF ASSETS FUNDED BY DEBT This percentage demonstrates the percentage of Council assets funded by debt. This ratio has shown a steady decline over the five year period and indicates that 0.5% of Council's assets are funded by debt. Again, the large increases in 2005/06 and 2006/07 are as a result of the loans required to fund the Ballerini costs. The ratio indicates that the Council maintains a minimal level of borrowings. The improvement in this ratio over the five year period has two main causes; the continuing debt repayment program and the increasing value of the Council’s assets.

Statement of Cash Flows The Council began the year with cash and investments valued at $10.8m. Despite some large capital expenditure on projects such as the water meter replacement program, this position remained stable in 2008/09, with the Council finishing the year with cash and investments worth $12.0m 1. Looking forward, the Council’s short and long term cash focus indicate that sufficient cash is available to meet recurring activities and planned future capital expenditure.


2008/09 Results

Opening balance $7.6m

Plus cash received $20.3m

Less cash spent $22.9m

Cash available at year end $5.0m

Investments (term deposits, managed funds etc.) $7.0m

Total cash and investments $12.0m

2007/08 2008/09

Net cash received from day to day trading operations $12.5m $9.4

New loans Nil Nil

Purchase of assets (net) $5.9 m $8.1m

Repayment of debts $6.5 m $0.2

1 This however includes $0.9m of Financial Assistance Grant for 2009/10 paid in advance.

Statement of Changes in Equity This statement measures the change in the Council’s net wealth and considers such items as retained earnings, re-valuations of the asset base and reserves held for future capital works.

ANALYSIS OF COMMUNITY WEALTH

The community ownership in the infrastructure and services the Council provides is growing steadily. A portion of the community wealth is cash-backed by an appropriate level of reserves held to plan for future projects, which, with financial planning, can place less reliance on loan borrowing in meeting the needs of the community.


The increase in community wealth in 2008/09 relates to the revaluation of the Council’s land, building, plant and equipment assets. The value of these assets was previously underestimated.

Summary The Council will need to monitor its operating position closely in the next few years to ensure that it continues to maintain its very strong balance sheet and cash position. Increases in the Council’s costs combined with community pressure to provide a larger range of services at a higher quality on a fixed revenue base will test the Council’s ability to maintain this position. The growing operating deficits before capital grants and contributions, while at present no unreasonable, could become a cause for concern should programs like Roads to Recovery disappear in the future. The Council has been able to maintain its strong operating position following the settlement of the Ballerini case and the resulting HIH insurance and this has been the result of conservative and prudent financial management. The continuing drought and the impact of the Global financial Crisis will provide new challenges for the Council going forward.


Corporate Services Finance

Finance Report 2008/09 was a year of consolidation for the Finance team. The Finance team, despite the loss of some key staff throughout the year, was able to meet the many challenges placed before it over the course of the year.

ACHIEVEMENTS • Water meter reading – The Revenue team was asked to implement a new water

meter reading system in 2008/09. The new electronic reading system is markedly more efficient than the previous manual system and by allowing meters to be read remotely, removes some of the occupational health and safety issues related to entering private property. However, the process involved recording the details of over 4,500 replacement meters including meter readings while simultaneously issuing quarterly water bills. The new system also required integration with the Council’s existing financial software and training for Revenue team members. While the project did meet the occasional hurdle, the hard work and dedication of the revenue team was able to produce in the end a more efficient and modern water metering system.

• Water & Safety Officer – The 2008/09 Financial Year saw the Council create a new staff position of Water & Safety Officer. This new role came with a diverse set of duties:

o Responsibility for the Water Revenue function o Overseeing the safety and amenity of the Council’s swimming pools o Assisting the Enterprise Risk Manager with conducting risk assessments

The role has been a success to date with major improvements made in the operations of the swimming pools and with the improvements to the water billing function as shown above. The diverse roles brought together in the one positions requires some flexibility from the Council and the workforce.

• Berrigan Library – The Berrigan Library was officially opened in July 2008. The new library has been extremely popular with over half the residents of Berrigan now members of the library service. The library is the third new library constructed in Berrigan Shire over the past ten years as part of its long term plan to upgrade the library facilities throughout the Shire. The remaining library, in Finley, is proposed to be upgraded in 2009/10 with the Council committing to the purchase of a new building this year.


CHALLENGES

• Civica’s purchase of Practical Computer Systems – Since 2003, Berrigan Shire Council has used the “Practical” financial management software developed by Practical Computer Systems, a Australian company based in Toowoomba. In 2008/09, Practical Computer Systems was purchased by Civica Solutions, part of a multinational group and developer of the competing “Authority” financial management system. While Civica have assured the Council that the “Practical” system will be maintained in the short to medium term (i.e. 5 -10 years) in the long term the Council will be forced to look at a replacement system. This will be complicated as Civica’s purchase of several of their competitors will lead to increased market concentration and potentially lessened competition in the industry. The Finance team have begun the process of seeking out alternatives to the Practical system, including an “upgrade’ to Civica’s Authority system or a rival package.

• Infrastructure Asset Accounting – The Council has developed some sophisticated tools to track and record its infrastructure assets, including its roads, stormwater, water supply and sewerage systems. These have been useful in assisting the Council to develop plans for the ongoing management of those assets. However, there is room to improve the manner in which the Council records and measures the ongoing changes to its assets, including purchasing, constructing and decommissioning. An improved system would streamline the Council’s reporting process and provide timely and accurate financial information to the Council’s technical staff to use when managing these assets. Improvements to this system will require financial and technical staff to continue to work together on continually improving the asset accounting process.


Contracts in Excess of $150,000 During the year the Council entered into a number of contracts which had a value in excess of $150,0003:

Contractor Name Nature of Goods or Services Contract Type Estimate Actual

2008/09 D&M Bowden Construction Pty Ltd

Construction of Berrigan Sports Complex Pavillion

Staged/Project Payments

637,600

347,861

Transpacific Industries Group Ltd

Repainting of the Interior and Exterior of Finley and Berrigan Water Reserves


588,530

388,034

Actaris Pty Ltd

Replacement of Water Meters in the townships of Finley, Tocumwal, Berrigan and Barooga.


779,681

788,392

Prominent Fluid Controls Pty Ltd

Construction of Tocumwal and Barooga Fluoridation Plants


141,594

29,589

Kendell Waste Services Pty Ltd

Domestic Kerbside Waste and Recyclables Collection and Disposal


2,254,560

48,431

Recivil Pty Ltd Pavement Stabilisation for 2008/09


187,899

216,081

Rates and amounts written off during 2008/09 Section 607 of the Local Government Act 1993, and Section 131 of the Local Government (General) Regulation 2005, list the various circumstances under which either the General Manager or the Council can endorse the writing off of rates and charges, either by a written order of the General Manager, and/or the resolution of the Council. These write offs can include rates, charges and interest raised in error, and small balances that are deemed to be economically unviable to recover. In accordance with Schedule 8 Part 26(84) of the Local Government Act 1993, an amount of $187,380.75 was written off against the ordinary farmland rate. This is part of the transition arrangements relating to the separation of land and water values for rating purposes. The amount to be written off was anticipated by the Council and the deficit shared across the other classes of ratepayers. Rates and amounts written off during 2008/09 are as follows:

Charge ValueOrdinary Rates $1,608.26 Annual Water Charges $972.57 Water Consumption / Restriction Relief Charges $1,018.71 Annual Sewer/Pedestal Charges $82.05 Garbage/Domestic Waste Charges $560.32 Stormwater/Drainage Charges $173.04 Interest/Legal/Other Charges $765.80 $5,180.75

Ordinary Rates – Farmland Capping Write Off $182,200.00 $187,380.75

3 All contracts are GST inclusive.


Councillor Fees, Expenses and Facilities The Council, pursuant to Sections 248 and 249 of the Local Government Act 1993, is required to pay annual fees to the Mayor and Councillors. The level of the fee is determined by the Council in accordance with the determination of the Local Government Remuneration Tribunal. In 2008/09 the total amount of money expended during the year on mayoral and councillor fees was as follows:

MAYORAL AND COUNCILLOR FEES Fee Value Mayoral Fee 19,664.18Provision of Mayoral Vehicle 18,392.00Councillor Fees 70,567.50Total 108,623.68

* The Mayor contributed $3,030 towards the cost of the Mayor's Vehicle Under Section 252 of the Local Government Act 1993, the Council is required to have a policy concerning the payment of expenses incurred or to be incurred by, and the provision of facilities to, the Mayor, Deputy Mayor, and other Councillors in relation to discharging the functions of civic office. During 2008/09 the total amount expended was as follows:

COUNCILLOR FEES AND EXPENSES Fee/Expense Value Facilities Office Equipment 325.46Telephone - Line Rental 1,794.52Meals & Refreshments at meetings convened by Council 4,860.97Council Vehicles 18,392.00Expenses Telephone - Calls 573.60Conferences & Seminars 12,383.54Training 0.00Interstate Travel 0.00Overseas Travel 0.00Spouse/partner/accompanying person expenses 605.19Carer or other related expenses 0.00Legal 0.00Subscriptions 2,739.09Insurance 1,785.00Local Travel 15,197.40Travel outside of the LGA 6,128.74Miscellaneous 1,729.11Total 66,514.62

A copy of the Council’s policy for the payment of expenses and the provision of facilities for 2008/09 has been attached as Appendix 1.


Senior Staff The Council employs one Senior Staff member on a performance based contract, being its General Manager. The total amount payable under this contract in 2008/09 was $155,499, including fringe benefits, employment on-costs and business and private vehicle use. Package Component Value Total value of salary component of the package 115,265Total amount of any bonus payments, performance or other payments that do not form part of the salary component 0Total payable superannuation (salary sacrifice and employers contribution) 30,592Total value of non-cash benefits 4,218Total payable fringe benefits tax for non-cash benefits 5,424TOTAL VALUE OF CONTRACT 155,499

Donations and Grants Under Section 356 of the Local Government Act 1993, a Council may, in accordance with a resolution of the Council, contribute money or otherwise grant financial assistance to persons/organisations for the purpose of exercising its functions. In 2008/09 Berrigan Shire Council made the following contributions under Section 356 of the Act.

Beneficiary Grant Paid

Tocumwal Football Club – Pavilion $48,903*

Tocumwal on the Murray Regional Tourism Board $88,000

Barooga Accommodation Group $38,000

Club Barooga $7,199

South West Arts $6,596

Lions Club Berrigan – Hayes Park $3,000

Lions Club Finley – Cemetery Honorarium $4,705

Lions Club Tocumwal – Cemetery Honorarium $2,780

NSW Rural Doctors Network $3,000

Lions Club Berrigan – Cemetery Honorarium $2,680

Finley High School $2,230

TOTAL * In addition, Council made a loan of $66,667 to Tocumwal Football Club’ details of which, are shown below.

$207,093

The Council was approached by the Tocumwal Football Club for assistance with financing the finalisation the construction of the Tocumwal Recreation Reserve Community Rooms. In response, the Council agreed to the following financial assistance package

• A loan of $66,667 in line with the general terms of the Councils Capital Grants and Contributions Policy. The terms of the loan are as follows


o Compounding interest at a subsidised rate of 3.69% per annum. o Loan term of 5 years, with the last payment due on 30 December 2013 o Six monthly payments of principal and interest

• A direct grant of up to $66,667 (of which $48,903 was paid by 30 June 2009). • Payment of the grant to be contingent on Tocumwal Football Club raising an

additional and matching $66,667 from the community. The Council released matching funds when the Tocumwal Football Club provided evidence of the amount raised.

In line with s 356 of the Local Government Act, the Council gave notice to the community of its intention to provide such assistance to the Tocumwal Football Club and invited submissions. No submissions were received. In addition to the above contributions, the council also provided assistance to the following Council Committees of Management as defined under Section 355 of the Local Government Act, 1993: Committee Contribution Berrigan War Memorial Hall $6,860 Tocumwal War Memorial Hall $3,280 Berrigan War Memorial Swimming Pool $28,000 Finley War Memorial Swimming Pool $31,000 Barooga Recreation Reserve $10,390 Tocumwal Swimming Pool $28,000 Berrigan Sportsground Committee $9,540 Finley Recreation Reserve $10,220 Finley Showgrounds & Sporting Complex $10,480 Tocumwal Recreation Reserve $10,140 Finley Tidy Towns $570 Berrigan Conservation & Tidy Towns Group $3,400 Total $151,880

Land Sales In the interests of promoting continued economic growth and development, the Council periodically develops and sells freehold land for both industrial and residential purposes. The Council carefully manages and releases developed land in a manner that encourages and promotes private development of a suitable standard. In general, the Council places proceeds from developed real estate sales into a reserve to fund future land development, making the Council’s land development activities self-funding. During 2008/09 no land was sold in the Council’s current residential development “Malone Mews” at Finley. The remaining lots in the subdivision have been listed with local agents. Financial information on the sale of developed real estate is provided in Note 5 of the 2008/09 General Purpose Financial Statements.

Condition of Public Works and Buildings Under Section 428(2) (d) of the Local Government Act 1993, the Council is required to provide a report on the condition of public works (including public buildings, public roads, and water, sewerage and drainage works) under the control of the Council as


at the end of the financial year. The following statement outlines the estimated cost (at current values) of bringing assets to a satisfactory standard, the estimated annual expense of maintaining the works at that standard, and the programmed maintenance works undertaken in 2008/09. Additional information is available in Special Schedule 7 of the Annual Financial Statements.

Asset Category Estimated cost to bring to a satisfactory standard

Estimated annual maintenance expense

Program maintenance works for current year

Buildings 1,895 101 101Public Roads 3,775 1603 1,573Water 687 355 355Sewerage 373 367 367Drainage Works 355 90 90TOTAL 7,085 2,516 2,486


Administration

LEGAL PROCEEDINGS The following is a summary of the amounts incurred by the Council during 2008/09 by way of legal proceedings taken by or against the Council. The council has been involved with the prosecution of two charges relating to the tampering of a water meter. The Council was successful in seeing a penalty award by the Court and subsequent appeals by the offenders were dismissed. The State Debt Recovery Office is pursuing the outstanding penalties. Total disbursements for these matters was $11,970.45.

OTHER LEGAL PROCEEDINGS During the year the Council commenced proceedings against 91 assessments for unpaid rates and charges at a total cost of $41,191.62. Collection procedures are in place for the recovery of all monies, with both outstanding debts and the legal costs being recoverable under the Local Government Act 1993. It is the Council’s policy that recovery proceedings for unpaid rates may be deferred until the outstanding debt reaches $300.00.

External bodies exercising functions delegated by the Council The Council does not delegate any functions to external bodies.

Interest in Companies The Council did not have a controlling interest in any companies during the reporting period.

Partnerships, Co-operatives or Other Joint Ventures The Council is a shareholder in the Strategic Purchasing Scheme which is a co-operative purchasing organisation that aims to provide high quality goods and services at the most competitive price to the Council. The National Saleyards Quality Assurance Ltd. is a company of which the Council is a shareholder. The company aims to provide assistance to the owners of saleyards in implementing quality assurance principles in the operation of saleyards. The Council is also a shareholder of Murray Irrigation Limited which is the irrigation water supply authority for the area in southern NSW bounded by Mulwala to the east and Moulamein to the west. The Council is a member of Statecover Mutual and Statewide Mutual. These organisations provide Workcover and other general insurance respectively to member councils. The Council is a member of RAMROC (Riverina and Murray Regional Organisation of Councils) which is a regional organisation of Councils that provides lobbying on regional issues and aims to eliminate duplication amongst the member Councils.


The Council is a member of the Shires Association of NSW which represents the views of councils by presenting councils views to governments, promoting local government to the community, and providing specialist advice and services. As part of the Council’s membership to the Shires Association the Council is also a member of Local Government Procurement (LGP), which provides integrated procurement services to Councils.

Business Activities The Council has not identified any Category 1 businesses as defined by the Department of Local Government’s Pricing and Costing for Council Businesses – A Guide to Competitive Neutrality (1997). The Council has however identified the following operations as Category 2 business activities: • Water Service • Sewerage Service Despite being identified as Category 2 businesses, the Council’s water and sewer services meet all reporting and competitive neutrality requirements for Category 1 business activities. Neither service has adopted the “corporatisation model” as they have been recognised as Category 2 businesses by the Council. In 2008/09 the turnover from water services was $2.7m, including 0.3m of contributed assets, slightly above the threshold for a Category 2 business activity. Turnover from the sewerage service remains below the threshold at $1.6m, including 0.2m of contributed assets. Until 30 September 2009, the Council operated the Finley Livestock Exchange as a Category 2 business. This business has since been discontinued and a private operator now leases the saleyard facility. The Council’s pricing policy for all services was reviewed in 2001/02 and a user pays pricing system for water consumption was introduced in 2006/07. The Council does not believe that there will be a significant level of complaints relating to competitive neutrality and has therefore resolved to include any complaints received within its adopted complaints mechanisms. At 30 June 2009 no complaints had been received for 2008/09. The Council provides regular advice to the public, including fax back forms and a complaints mechanism through the Council’s website to encourage participation in relation to all customer service requests or complaints, including competitive neutrality issues.

Overseas Visits No overseas visits were taken by Councillors, council staff or other persons while representing the Council during 2008/09 (including visits sponsored by other organisations).

Work Carried Out on Private Land The Council did not make any resolutions regarding work carried out on private land in accordance with Section 67(3) of the Local Government Act 1993. The implication of the lack of any such resolution is that the Council did not provide any subsidised services on private land.


Privacy and Personal Information The Council adopted a Privacy Management Plan under Section 33 of the Privacy and Personal Information Protection Act 1998 in June 2000. The Council makes all staff aware of the requirements under the Act and the Council plan. All office staff and the managers of external services such as the Saleyards, HACC and Library Services received training on the provisions of the Act in November 2004 by an outside contractor, Timmins Consulting. All new staff members address privacy issues as part of their induction process. No complaints or enquiries were received during the financial year.

Human Resources

Human Resource Activities undertaken by the Council The Council’s primary human resources activities over the previous 12 month period relate to the training of staff to comply with WorkCover and other statutory regulations. The move towards online training has continued with 6 online training courses being delivered during the year. This mode of delivery reduces overall training costs and makes training accessible to greater numbers of staff members. During 2008/09 thirteen new staff inductions were undertaken, providing new staff members with a thorough understanding of their Occupational Health & Safety (OH&S), Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) and corporate responsibilities.

TRAINING UNDERTAKEN IN 2008/09

Course Description Number of

Participants Chainsaw Level 1 4 OHS Committee Chairperson Training 1 Safety Checking Electrical Appliances (test & tag) 2 Design & Inspect Traffic Control Plans (orange card) 1 Stop/Slow (blue card) 11 Practical - Web Training 5 Unacceptible Behaviour 2 Cert III Business 2 Cert III Library Information 1 Arboriculture 2 Emotional Intelligence 2 OHS Induction to Construction Site 5 Confined Space Training 20 Underground Asset Location 11 OHS Consultation for Committee Members 9 RTW & OHS Responsibilities for Managers & Supervisors 9 Level 1 Bridge & Inspections & Assessments on Local Roads 1 Key Components of NSW Housing Code & Stats 1 Manage OHS in the Building/Construction Workplace 1 Writing Workplace Docs 1 LS Licence 1 Bronze Medallion, Pool Lifeguard, First Aid 1 Forklift Licence 1


Course Description Number of

Participants NSW LGCSA - New Workers Day Course 1 IPEWA - NAMS Plus Asset Management Training 1 Conargo Shrie - Mock Trial 7 Albury Wodonga Volunteer - Ideas Workshop 1 Wentworth Shire - Library Zone Meeting 1 HACC Conference 1 Design Engineering Course 1 NATSPEC Seminar 2 Kasa Redberg P/L - Pump Fundamentals 1 Internal Audit in Local Government 1 Supplier: The Institute of Internal Auditors Australia 1 Murray Regional Food Group - Cleaning and Sanitizing 2 Records Management Association of Australia - The 3 C's of Records Management (Create, Capture and Comply) 1 Secrets to Being a Front Desk Superstar 2 Chemical Safety Course 2 Landfill Management Course 1 First Aid 4 GEMS Workshop 1 Australian Tax College - FBT Seminar 1 South Western Division of Rangers 1 NSW Food Authority - Allergens & Consistency 2 Aerodrome Reporting & Works Safety Officer Course 1 NSW State EMC - Emergency Management Arrangements 1 Work in an emergency operations centre 1 Work in an emergency operations centre 1 Sharps Training Session - Conducted by NSW Health 24 TAFE Accredited Playground Safety Course 2 Playground Safety & Design Workshop 2 Apply Traffic Control Plans (yellow card) 34 Total 195

Equal Opportunity Management The Council adopted the Berrigan Shire Council Equal Employment and Opportunity (EEO) Policy in July 2002. The Council supports this policy and ensures that it is understood and complied with by all employees. All employees have the opportunity to participate in the Council induction program that includes awareness of EEO. In 2008/09 13 new staff members, approximately 13% of the total workforce, took part in this program. Each individual within the council is treated on their ability to perform the duties of their job with no bias towards gender, race, ethnic background, religion, age, marital status or sexual preference. Access and facilities for the aged and disabled are taken into account in the design of new facilities, and the Council has the capability of offering a modified workplace for persons with a disability.

Community and Cultural Activities A major new initiative for the Council in 2008/09 was the appointment of a Community Development Officer (CDO). The CDO is responsible for providing the


community with direction on how to access resources including external funding, provide assistance to Section 355 Committees and offer assistance relating to community projects. The CDO also oversees the implementation of the Council’s Social/Community Plan and Cultural Plan.

Access and Equity Access and equity strategies are defined by the NSW Department of Local Government as those activities that benefit the broad community and/or particular target groups. In 2008, the Council adopted its fourth Social/Community Plan. This plan covers the period from 1 July 2008 to 30 June 2011 with the recommendations to be implemented by the Council through the Management Planning process. Copies of the plan are available on request from the Berrigan Shire Administration Centre or through the Council website. The strategies in the Social/Community Plan aim to benefit eight specific target groups within the Shire. These are: • Children; • Young People; • The Aged; • People with Disabilities; • Aboriginal People; • Women; • People from Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Backgrounds; and • Residents not part of the mandatory groups (i.e. the rural community and men). In addition to the items identified in the Council’s Social/Community Plan, a number of activities based on access and equity principles have been pursued. These include: • Youth Week at Finley High School; • The Local Employment Expo at Finley High School; • Support for the Tocumwal 150 year celebrations; • Developing and administering a Crime Prevention Committee in Finley; • Assistance towards the development of the Berrigan Multi-purpose health service; • Representation to the Victorian Government regarding adequate public transport;

and • Continuing drought support efforts including supporting the local Centacare

Drought Support Officer in Finley and support of the Cobram Foodbank.


PRINCIPAL ACTIVITIES – SOCIAL/COMMUNITY PLAN Social and Community

Objective Performance Indicator Outcome/Status

The Council is seeking to work with the community to provide an overall reduction in the number of public halls so that a smaller number can be better serviced and more appropriate to the community’s needs.

Less better utilized and maintained halls more suited to users needs.

Ongoing The Council is collating information to develop a database of halls and is working with community organizations to consolidate facility usage.

To attempt to identify sources of assistance that could be applied to requests for support that are outside the Council’s core activities or areas of responsibility

Alternatives sources and types of assistance identified.

Completed & Ongoing The Council has sourced key directories of available grant funds and material assistance that can be provided to those seeking assistance. The Council assists community organizations etc in preparation of applications for assistance

Given the Council’s limited resources there would be benefit in prioritizing its activities to ensure resources are focused on the highest needs.

Resources focused on highest needs. Some activities not resourced by the Council.

Completed The Council determined not to complete this activity.

To minimize the economic and social effect of ongoing drought conditions on farms and other businesses by lobbying for the continuation of Federal and State Drought Relief Programs.

State and Federal Governments lobbied. Drought Relief continued.

Ongoing The Council has taken opportunities through RAMROC, irrigation organizations and other interest groups to lobby other levels of government for continued drought relief. The Council has invited State and Federal Ministers and Members to the area to see the effects of the drought. The Council has supported the Water4Food campaign.

Youth retention is a key issue for sustaining the social and economic well being of the community.

Expansion of local educational opportunities.

Completed & Ongoing The Council provided scholarships and accommodation assistance to encourage young people to attend local regional tertiary institutions and to encourage them to maintain contact with the area through supported employment opportunities. Support was provided to local arts programs to create opportunities to young people to develop their skills locally.

Ongoing operation of community managed swimming pools is important to meet the social and recreational needs of the community.

Establish support mechanisms to allow community management to sustain the operation of swimming pools

Completed The Council appointed a pools supervisor to provide assistance to management committees with the safe and efficient operation of pools. Council Water and Sewer staff have assumed responsibility for management of pool water quality.

The Finley branch library serves the Council’s largest population centre and requires improvement to meet the ongoing needs of the community.

Evaluation of available improvement opportunities for the Finley Branch Library. Selection of an option for improvement. Delivery of the preferred service

Completed The Council determined that the existing Finley Branch Library premises could not be economically redeveloped to improve service delivery.


Objective Performance Indicator Outcome/Status improvement option. New premises were purchased for

redevelopment and to house complimentary Council services.

To provide additional human resources to the Council’s library service to accommodate expanded operational hours.

Additional human resources provided. Dedicated management provided.

Completed Additional staff hours have been provided. A dedicated management position has been provided.

Cultural and Linguistic Diversity Berrigan Shire residents continue to be almost entirely from English speaking backgrounds. Of the 6.4% of the Shire population born overseas, 3.9% were born in English speaking countries. The remaining 2.5% (200 people) come from a diverse range of ethnic and linguistic backgrounds. In addition, only 1.3% of the population identify as being from an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander background. As a result of the low levels of demand, the Council did not undertake any specific programs to promote services, or access to services, for people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. The Council does however endeavour to provide services consistent with the principles of multiculturalism as they are required.

Cultural Services Berrigan Shire Council, in conjunction with South West Arts and after consultation with the community, adopted a new Cultural Plan in 2008 in accordance with the Cultural Planning Guidelines released by the Department of Local Government and the NSW Ministry for the Arts. The Cultural Plan covers the period from July 2008 to June 2011 and explores what matters to Berrigan Shire residents and the community as a whole. The plan aims to: • Promote the cultural wellbeing of the Shire; • Enable the Council to devise and implement cultural processes consistent with

broader objectives; • Enable the Council to identify and implement cultural processes consistent with

broader objectives; • Enable the Council to identify the interrelationships between its activities and

policies and recognise the cultural implications for a genuine “whole of council” approach to cultural planning;

• Emphasise community engagement and creative expression of values and aspirations;

• Allow this expression of values and aspirations to inform council policies and decision, thereby bringing the culture of government to that of the communities within the Shire; and,

• Improve links with other spheres of government in order to increase opportunities for partnerships and funding.

Items in the Cultural Plan are incorporated into the Council’s Management Planning process and copies of the Plan are available in hard copy from the office or through the website.


PRINCIPAL ACTIVITIES – CULTURAL PLAN Cultural


The irrigation industry is a key economic driver in the local economy and the “Wheels of Prosperity” are a permanent reminder of its value.

“Wheels of Prosperity” to operational condition and enhance the surrounding area to

Incomplete This project has been unable to be progressed due to the prevailing drought and resultant water restrictions.

The Council’s cemetery records are a significant part of the area’s local heritage and are regularly researched. The amount of staff time consumed in assisting this research can be used by making the records electronically available to the wider community.

Cemetery records made available via the Council’s website and through branch libraries. Staff resources committed to research activities reduced.

Carried Forward Suitable software to provide a viable electronic solution has been identified.

As the Council has limited resources and skills to develop and implement arts and cultural programs it could deliver better outcomes by partnering with another community based organization to develop and deliver relevant programs or projects.

Funds provided to buy in projects and programs. Agreement put in place with community organization(s) to develop and deliver projects and programs.

Incomplete Funds have been provide to facilitate the buy in of projects and programs but no formal agreement has been put in place.

Cultural events can also deliver economic as well as cultural benefits through attraction of visitors to the area.

New events developed through the co-operation of Tocumwal on the Murray Tourism Board and South West Arts

Ongoing An Art Festival was developed and held.

The Council supports the recognition of the important role that the indigenous community plays in the Shire through the provision of an indigenous achievement award targeted at young people through an educational institution.

Awards provided and supported. Completed The Awards has been provided and supported through assistance to Finley High School.

The opportunity to develop vibrant street trading activities while protecting or enhancing pedestrian movement could be realized with benefits to both traders and pedestrians.

Development of a Council policy and supporting regulatory processes encourage street trading and improving pedestrian access within commercial areas

Incomplete A draft policy has been adopted by the Council and a community consultation process has been completed. A final policy will be considered by the Council during 2009/2010.

The Council needs to develop a strategy to engage new volunteers for community facilities and services to assist an aging volunteer base and to reduce the impacts of increasing regulatory requirements.

Development of new strategies. Volunteer base expanded.

Ongoing The Council has developed a new volunteer resource kit with assistance from Albury Wodonga Volunteer Resource Bureau The kit is being rolled out to local committees. Strategy implementation needs to continue through, at least, 2009/2010.

To improve opportunities for local museums and galleries to access grant funding volunteers require specific training in areas such as collection development, storage procedures and marketing etc.

Delivery of training through Museums and Galleries NSW to volunteers.

Incomplete This project has not commenced and will be carried over to 2009/2010 for completion.

To increase utilization of community cultural facilities through the development of a complete list of available facilities and their capabilities.

Audit of available facilities completed. List of facilities developed and made available.

Ongoing Compilation of a facilities list has commenced but is not complete. An audit process has not commenced


To improve access to arts activities which is sometimes difficult for particular groups within the community such as older people, people with disabilities, members of the indigenous community or young people through the use of alternative delivery methods.

Arts projects delivered alternative methods. Access improved

Ongoing Hothouse Theatre was delivered at Barooga through the branch library. “In The Bin” film production and exhibitions held at Finley high School to encourage young people’s involvement in film production. Arts Festival held at Tocumwal through a variety of venues and with a variety of genres.

To preserve local heritage through the collection of oral histories.

Oral histories professionally recorded. Oral histories stored and made available through branch libraries.

Incomplete This project has not been commenced and has been carried forward tom 2009/2010 for completion.

Library Services Library Quick Statistics 2008/09 2007/08 Change Membership 3,403 2,991 ↑13.8% Patronage (visits) 32,404 25,304 ↑28.1% Loans 41,913 39,754 ↑5.4% Library Services After the excitement of the new Berrigan library last year, this year the Berrigan Shire Library Service was able to have a bit of a breather! However, there were still lots of exciting activities that took place at the libraries over the past twelve months; not only new and improved facilities and programs for the public but also a lot of work behind the scenes as well. The 2008/09 year saw the Library Service restructure its staffing arrangements, with each staff member now responsible for the operation of a specific branch. The library team, including two new team members, has responded well to the challenge of making this new structure work. During the last twelve months the library team has steadily increased the range of available services and clientele. New and improved services offered include:

• A weekly “Storytime” for young children at each branch;

• a “lapsit for babies” programme; • Scrabble competitions; • “Knit-in” social circles;

These diverse community activities have endeared Finley, Tocumwal and Berrigan Branches to all age groups as these activities allow social interaction between individuals who have a common interest but otherwise may never have met.

1. Jean Genies visit Berrigan in June


Out-of-hours use of the Community Room at Barooga continues to be very popular with Tai Chi, embroidery and a Probus group among others. An exciting development for the library service has been the establishment of four book groups (three in Berrigan and one in Barooga) The creation of these groups was stimulated by an agreement with Upper Murray Regional Library Service to swap sets of ten titles. Wireless internet “Hotspots” have now been established at each branch. These hotspots allow residents and visitors to the Shire to access the internet using their own laptop while in the library. Library patronage has increased 28% for the 2008/09 year, reflecting the larger

range of value-added services offered by the library service. There has been a smaller increase (5%) in library loans over the same period last year and this reflects a general move away from libraries being seen as just a book borrowing service. Membership has increased by 14% across all four branches. The current statistics for each branch reflect the new and equitable operating hours across all branches. Next year will see the exciting challenge of creating a new library for the Finley community on a new “main street” site. This will complete the Council’s long term plans to redevelop the library services in every town

in the Shire. Lobbying and Advocacy The NSW Government has committed $9 million over the next three years to country public libraries following a campaign by the Country Public Library Association as well as support from the Parry Report regarding the current funding structure. The additional funding will be only distributed through successful competitive grant applications. Further assistance in funding the day-to-day operations of the library service from the State government is still desperately needed. Berrigan Shire Library Service works with all libraries in the South-West Zone to ensure better service and equity of access to information and resources, such as the Upper Murray Regional Library with book clubs and the YourTutor co-operative with Bland and Leeton Shires.

2 Simultaneous storytime at Berrigan


The Berrigan Shire Library Service is an integrated part of the wider community, with close ties and partnerships with a range of other community organizations. A successful grant application by Berrigan Lions Club for computer lessons for seniors reflects a close and mutually beneficial working relationship between a service club, educational institution and the library service. A successful grant application to the Children’s Book Council gave the library service an opportunity to host award-winning illustrator, Mr. Craig Smith. The event was extremely successful with all students in the Shire from Years 5 to 8 – as well as from Savernake Public School in neighbouring Corowa Shire – participating. The students took away an understanding of the finer points of drawing ‘action’ as Craig talked about life as an illustrator and how he goes about creating action drawings. Member Services The Berrigan Shire Library Service maintains an ever-increasing range of services for members that reflect its diverse membership base. In 2009 these services included:

• Scrabble Groups at Berrigan and Finley • Weekly Storytimes at Berrigan, Finley &

Tocumwal • Knit-In groups supporting ABC ‘Wrap-with-

Love’ campaign • Weekly Class groups at Berrigan St

Columba’s and Berrigan Public Schools [K-G2]

• Computer Group at Berrigan • Four book clubs • A weblog (or blog) published on the Council’s website. • Online subscriptions to a range of study aides or other information sources. These

links are available through the Council website: o Ancestry.com

o Encyclopedia Britannica o YourTutor.com

• Art and cultural activities in conjuction with South West Arts. In 2009 this included the ‘Art in a Suitcase’ exhibition at Berrigan & Tocumwal

• Bag Making at Finley Library with Janet MacGregor

Professional Development

• First Aid training for all staff • Legal Information Access Centre Training –

3 team members attended • ‘Reader Advisory’ training (one attendee) • Reader Advisory trainer (all staff attended

as an ongoing program) • The New South Wales Public Libraries –

Country Conference at Tamworth July 2008 and a symposium in Parkes in 2009. (attended by the Library Manager)

4 Sparkle masks at Barooga

3 Bag making at Finley


• S-W Zone meetings, (four per year attended by the Library Manager) Patronage Branch 2007/08 2008/09 Barooga 4831 4855 Berrigan 4636 8637 Finley 6933 9245 Tocumwal 8904 9667

Loans

Branch 2007/08 2008/09 Barooga 4988 5235 Berrigan 7753 9527 Finley 11603 12335 Tocumwal 15410 14816

Members Branch 2007/08 2008/09 Barooga 599 668 Berrigan 566 730 Finley 866 975 Tocumwal 960 1030

PRINCIPAL ACTIVITIES – CHILDREN’S SERVICES Throughout the year the Council has undertaken a number of activities aimed at developing and promoting services and programs that provide for the needs of children. These include the following:


EARLY INTERVENTION SERVICES The Council provides an early intervention service to the residents of Berrigan Shire. This program is aimed at children from 0-5 years of age who have a developmental delay/disability which may or may not be the result of a disability or diagnosed condition. The Early Intervention Centre is located in Finley and provides a range of centre, home-based and integration programs to children throughout Berrigan and Jerilderie Shires. The service operates 4 days a week with enrolments remaining stable. In 2008/09, despite 9 clients exiting the service over the 12 month period, the number of clients accessing the service remained at 20, the maximum capacity. The Early Intervention Service is funded through the NSW Department of Ageing, Disability and Home Care.

LIBRARY SERVICES The Berrigan Shire Library Service provides a range of programs that provide for the needs of children. These include school visits, story-time and school holiday activities.

ARTS AND CULTURAL ACTIVITIES Berrigan Shire Council funds South West Arts to provide cultural activities, including drama workshops, to children within the Shire. During 2008/09 the Council organised a series of cultural activities for youth in the Shire. These included music and drama workshops and performances for children ranging from toddlers to teenagers.

COUNCIL FACILITIES The Council maintains a range of facilities used by children, local schools, and community groups providing programs aimed at children. These include: • Libraries at Barooga, Berrigan, Finley and Tocumwal • Public halls at Berrigan, Finley and Tocumwal • Public swimming pools at Berrigan, Finley and Tocumwal • Recreation Reserves at Barooga, Berrigan, Finley and Tocumwal, and the

Showgrounds Facility at Finley • Skate Parks at Berrigan, Finley and Tocumwal • Thirteen playgrounds including

o Barooga Botanical Gardens o Barooga Library o Barooga Foreshore Park (Lawson Drive) o Barooga Recreation Reserve o Apex Park, Berrigan o Hayes Park, Berrigan o Mary Lawson Wayside Rest, Finley o Memorial Park, Finley o Rotary Park, Finley o Apex Park, Tocumwal,


o Tocumwal Library o Tocumwal Foreshore (x2)

The Council provides learn to swim classes through the AUSTSWIM program at its public swimming pools. The Council also provides funding assistance to school children selected to compete in national or international sporting events.

AGED SERVICES Berrigan Shire Council coordinates a Home and Community Care (HACC) Service which is designed to assist the frail aged and disabled, and their carers, to remain in the comfort of their homes and retain their independence for as long as possible. The service is funded by the NSW Department of Ageing and Disability and Home Care (DADHC) and provides services to clients in Finley, Berrigan, Barooga and Tocumwal, as well as Jerilderie Shire. The HACC service is based in Finley at the Community Health Centre adjacent to Finley Hospital, and is co-located with other community health services. Once again 2008/09 was a busy year for the HACC service, with the delivery of a number of services including the following: • Meals on Wheels – a prepared meal service delivered to client’s homes. • Home Maintenance – a handyman service for minor repairs and garden

maintenance. • Home Modification – a handyman service that provides certain home

modifications. • Community Transport – provides assistance with individual transport for specialist

and medical appointments. • Social Support – offers a range of practical support services such as visiting and

assistance with shopping. Overall servicing levels during the past 12 months over the range of assistance areas were as follows:

Servicing Area Services Provided

Meals on Wheels 3,524 meals delivered An average of 17 clients per month

Home Maintenance 23 clients 27 jobs completed 4 clients at full cost recovery

Home Modifications 37 HACC clients 49 jobs completed 12 clients at full cost recovery

Community Transport 1823 Total passenger trips 226 Individuals provided with transport Approximately 120,530 km travelled 1330 Trips for Service vehicles 409 Trips for Volunteer vehicles 84 Trips for Podiatry Bus 2169 Hours delivered to approx 16 Clients for Social Support


A key challenge for the service over the past 12 months was maintaining numbers in the meals on wheels and home maintenance and modification areas. With rising costs combined with a greater number of clients opting for aged care packages and accommodated living, these services have struggled to maintain numbers. Funding for Non Emergency Health Related Transport has been approved by Greater Southern Area Health Service for a 12 month period. This service has been in high demand. This funding is specifically for use by people who do not fit the HACC criteria. Many areas of the service are dependent on volunteers and staff. The service ensures that volunteers have adequate knowledge of workplace health and safety issues through face-to-face training and regular correspondence. We are happy to report that our volunteer base has stayed steady over the past twelve months. The Council would like to acknowledge the important role that these people play in providing support to the community’s aged and disabled people.

Tourism The Council continues to fund Tocumwal on the Murray Regional Tourism Group and the Cobram Barooga Accommodation Group to carry out tourism activities within Berrigan Shire. In 2008/09 the Council provided $88,000 to Tocumwal on the Murray and $38,000 to the Cobram Barooga Accommodation Group. Both groups are run by and for the industry. Tourism activities are subject to ongoing assessment against agree plans, and the groups are required to provide regular formal reports to the Council.

TOCUMWAL ON THE MURRAY REGIONAL TOURISM BOARD Tocumwal on the Murray provides tourism promotional activities for the area covered by Tocumwal, Finley, Berrigan and Jerilderie (funded by Jerilderie Shire Council), and operates the Visitor Information Centre in Tocumwal. The Regional Tourism Board’s activities focus on the following key areas: • Information and Technology Centre; • Website; • TV, radio and print promotion campaign; • Events; • Tours; and • Visitor Information Centre. Tocumwal on the Murray, despite taking steps to broaden its revenue base, is in a tight financial position and this has had an impact on the operations of the Board. The Board is currently investigating its options regarding alternate sites for the Visitor Information Centre at a location closer to the Newell Highway.


BAROOGA ACCOMMODATION GROUP The Cobram-Barooga Accommodation Group provides a range of promotional activities and events to support the local tourism industry. Support is provided through the organisation of events in their own right and by supporting groups by way of “seed funding”. The group furnishes the Council with an annual budget outlining promotions and events to be carried out during the financial year. Progress against the budget is reported to the Council on a regular basis. The group also runs a television campaign and a promotional website.

Bush Fire Control The Southern Border Team manages the Rural Fire Districts of Albury City, Berrigan, Corowa and Greater Hume Shire Councils by a Rural Fire Service Agreement. The Southern Border Team occupies an area of 10,449 square kilometres covering the City of Albury and the Shires of Berrigan, Corowa and Greater Hume. Its southern boundary is marked by the foreshore of Lake Hume and the Murray River and extends 70km north of the Murray River. The eastern boundary is the village of Jingellic and the western boundary is 10km west of the town of Tocumwal. The terrain ranges from hilly in the east, through gently undulating plains to irrigation areas in the west. Approximately 85% of the district’s population lives in one city and 13 main towns and villages. The largest is the City of Albury. The 13 main towns have over 1000 people. There are numerous smaller villages and hamlets scattered over the Team area ranging in size from 1000 people to just a few. The remaining 15% of the population live in rural areas, with many occupying smaller allotments close to Albury, Corowa and along the Murray River and main roads. In the eastern part of the Team there are large areas of State Forests and National Parks. The Carabost State Forest located on the eastern side of the Team covers 20,000 hectares. The Benambra and Woomargama National Parks are located in the central and southern areas and cover 32,500 hectares. There are several smaller State Forest reserves scattered mainly along the Murray River. The main Melbourne to Sydney railway line traverses the Southern Border Team area. The team has a National Highway and four State Highways that also cross it. The Hume Highway traverses the area heading from Albury into the north-eastern part of the team area. The Riverina Highway, Olympic Highway and Newell Highway are the other State highways. There are several other major roads in the Team area. There are currently 56 Brigades, 2359 registered volunteers and 7 full time staff. MANAGEMENT The Senior Management Team comprises the Group Captains within the Team and has met 4 times during the year. Brigade members are encouraged to discuss any issue they have with there Group Officers who will bring it to the attention of the Senior Management Team for consideration.


The Senior Management Team develops the 4 year Business Plan for the Team. The plan includes the proposed budgets for the next four years, Brigade Station construction for the next 10 years, Tanker replacement for the next 10 years and the proposed Program and Action for the next 12 months. The Annual Volunteer Forums were held on the 20 and 21 October 2008 with representative from RFS Head Office and Region in attendance. 92 volunteers representing 41 brigades attended these forums. Group Officers conducted their annual group meetings in March 2009 all of which were well attended by volunteers, along with a staff member. The staff attended 55 Brigade Annual General meeting during July/August 2008. Replacement tankers were ordered for Berrigan (Cat 1), Barooga (Cat 3), Bowna Wymah (Cat 7), Bucki (Cat 2), Cookardinia (Cat 7) Hopefield (Cat 1), Howlong (Cat 1), Jindera (Cat 1) Lavington (Cat 1), Savernake (Cat 1) and Thurgoona (Cat 1) Brigades. It is anticipated that all of these tankers will be in service prior to the 2009/10 fire season. A replacement Captains vehicle was purchased for the Finley Brigade. Brigades Stations were constructed for Bucki, Billabong East/West, Bowna Wymah and Savernake Brigades. OPERATIONS The prolong drought conditions within the area has resulted below average number of incidents being attend by Brigades. A total of 342 incidents were attended by Brigades of which 174 were grass/scrub/bush fires, 14 structural fires, 58 Motor Vehicle accident and/or fires, 78 False Alarm and 18 other emergency responses. During the Victorian Bushfire Disaster eleven (11) strike teams were deployed between 7 February 2009 and 5 March 2009 to assist the CFA and DSE. The Team also provided CISS support to RFS crews deployed to Victoria. A staging area was set up at North Albury for all New South Wales Emergency Services crew’s entry and departing from Victoria during that period. The Staging Area was manned by volunteers from the Team. In all 4945 person hours were involved in the deployment to the Victorian Fires. LEARNING & DEVELOPMENT Training courses provided during the year included: • Bush Fire Fighter • Advanced Fire Fighter • Crew Leader Grassland • Crew Leader Wildfire • Crew Leader Supervision • Group Leader • Senior First Aid • Rural Fire Driving • Village Fire Fighter


A total of 796 volunteers attended these course involving 4047 hours COMMUNITY SAFETY Brigades and staff were involved in community education activities across the Team including School visits (local High, Primary and Pre-Schools), local shows and events and talks to community groups on Fire Safety. The revised Bushfire Prone map for Albury City has now been signed by the Commissioner. It is anticipated that the Greater Hume Bushfire Prone map will be reviewed during 2009/10. The new Bushfire Risk Management Plan for Corowa/Berrigan Zone was completed during 2008/09 and will be signed by the Commissioner in the near future. The drought condition has seen a major drop in the number of permits to burn being issued during 2008/09. A total of 16 permits were issued. Also the amount of hazard reduction working including grazing, slashing, burning and spraying has also reduced. The Bushfire Danger Period will commence on 1 November each year unless the Senior Management Team after consulting with Captains consider the conditions appropriate to bring the season in earlier.


Technical Services Council’s Technical Services team experienced some changes in personnel throughout the year but have still managed to continue with a very extensive capital works program. Major projects have been completed for drainage and water re-use, water storages and roadworks. The severe drought conditions have again impacted on the Council’s ability to supply water within the towns as well as making road, parks and gardens maintenance very difficult. Planning and building staff have again had a quiet year in relation to development. However, there has been increased commitment to strategic planning associated with the proposed new Local Environmental Plan.

Roads Road maintenance and repairs are undertaken in accordance with the Council’s Strategic Business Plan – Road Assets, which identifies and prioritises the work to be undertaken. In 2008/09 the following projects were pursued:

URBAN STREETS The following urban street was stabilised and sealed: • Momalong Street, Berrigan – between Denison Street and the Cemetery In addition to the above, numerous urban streets, totalling 4.4km, were resealed to varying widths.

REGIONAL ROADS • Main Road 550 – Mulwala-Tocumwal Road. A length of 3km, starting

approximately 4km west of Barinya Estate Road was completely rebuilt, stabilised and sealed.

• Main Road 550 – a length of 1.1km starting 500m East of Hughes Street was completely rebuilt, stabilised and sealed.

In addition, 7.9km of roads were resealed (covering works on Main Roads 550, 564 and 363).

COLLECTOR ROADS (LOCAL ROADS) • Yarrawonga Road. 2.5km of roadworks from Draytons Road toward the Mulwala

Canal were undertaken with one major bend being reconstructed, works are to carry on through the 2009/10 works program.

• Racecourse Road, Tocumwal, 2.8km from The Rocks Road toward McCoullogh’s Road, widening, stabilisation and sealing.

RURAL ROADS • Back Barooga Road, 2.3 km from Carramar Road toward Main Road 550 has

been fully reconstructed, widened, stabilised and sealed. In addition rural road improvement works have been completed, including 42.5km of bitumen resealing works.


Sewer Services The Council continued some of the projects that had started/planned in the previous year. Projects including installation of screen extractors at Berrigan and Tocumwal sewerage treatment plants for a total cost of $139,000, replacement of the central distribution column of the trickling filter at Finley sewerage treatment plant at a cost of $17,700, and replacement of the digesters’ lids at Berrigan and Finley sewerage treatment plants for $103,000. These works were focused on improving the safety and functionality of the sewage treatment plants.

The Council has purchased sewer mains inspection equipment for $50,000 to facilitate a sewer reticulation inspection project across the Council’s four service areas.

The Council is required to obtain approval from the Department of Water and Energy to enable recycling of the treated effluent from the Berrigan sewerage treatment plant to water the racecourse. In order to comply with the guidelines for the recycled water reuse, the Council constructed a disinfection system at the sewerage treatment plant for a total cost of $18,200.

Frequent blockages and malfunction of the pump were being experienced in the town beach sewer pump station at Tocumwal which was being caused by and inadequate pump and electrical supply. The Council upgraded the power supply cable and replaced the pump with a three phase unit at a total cost of $45,000.

Other works included fencing of the Tocumwal stormwater/treated effluent ponds at and the installation of a discharge meter at the Finley effluent recycling system.

PRINCIPAL ACTIVITIES – SEWERAGE SERVICES


To ensure that the Council’s ongoing investment in sewerage service assets is effective for existing and future assets.

Review of the Council’s existing Sewer Strategic Business Plan

Incomplete The Plan has reached a draft stage and will be ready for adoption in October 2009.

Water Services The Council is committed to providing better services to the community, and therefore continued its efforts to improve the efficiency and reliability of its water supply system during the 2008/2009 financial year. Streamlining the water treatment plants is an important step to achieve product of highest standards. The chemical dosing systems have been retrofitted with “Streaming Current Monitors” to improve the treatment efficiency and the quality of the treated water for a total cost of $30,000. The powdered activated carbon dosing systems were also upgraded. As part of the Finley drought works, the council increased the capacity of the town water dam at Finley by 20Ml, and installed an aeration system to reduce the risks associated with the Blue Green Algae growth. The drought works were 50% subsidized by the State Government and the total cost of the works was $544,663.00.


A meter replacement campaign throughout the shire including the supply and installation of a new remote water meter reading system has been completed during this financial year. The new meter reading system incorporates the most advanced technology and provides for remote reading of the water meters. The total cost of the project was $900,000. Asset maintenance and renewal is an important milestone in securing a safe and reliable water supply system for the present and the future. The water reservoirs at Berrigan and Finley, which are a critical part of the towns’ water supply network, were repainted and renovated at a total cost of $600,000.

PRINCIPAL ACTIVITIES – WATER SERVICES


To ensure developers are charged a fair amount for the provision of water supply assets.

Review and adopt new S64 developer Contribution Plans

Completed The Council is now no longer available to review such plans earlier than every five years. This plan will now be reviewed at the end of 2009 for adoption in 2010.

To ensure that the Council’s ongoing investment in water supply assets is effective for existing and future assets.

Review of the Council’s existing Water Strategic Business Plan

Incomplete The Plan has reached a draft stage and will be ready for adoption late in 2009.

Stormwater & Drainage The 2008/09 financial year has seen the commencement and implementation of the Council’s Stormwater Management Plan adopted in December, 2008. Although there were no major capital works carried out for drainage during the year, there were a number of smaller improvement works carried out as follows: Wollamai Street, Finley – Finley to McAllister Street Drummond and Corcoran Streets, Berrigan – improve drainage from Drummond/Chanter Street intersection. Davis Street, Berrigan – improve drainage from Momalong Street intersection. Kamarooka Street, Barooga – improve drainage to properties on northern side of street and at intersection with Nangunia Street. There were also a number of drainage works completed with new sections of kerb and gutter in the following locations: • Deniliquin Street, Tocumwal – between Charlotte Street and Hannah Street • Jerilderie Street, Tocumwal – between Hennessy Street and Kelly Street • Kelly Street, Tocumwal – between Charlotte Street and Emily Street • Nangunia Street, Barooga – West side Wiruna Street to Botanic Gardens • Finley Street, Tocumwal – North side Hoyle Street to culdesac


Stormwater Management Service Charge Under clause 217(1) (e) of the Local Government (General) Regulation 2005, the Council is required as part of its Annual Report to provide a comparison of the actual stormwater management services made available by the Council during the year with the projected stormwater management services that were proposed to be made available, together with a statement of the reasons for any difference between them. Commencing in 2006/07 the Council implemented a Stormwater Management Service Charge of $25 per residential property to assist in financing the implementation of works identified as necessary for the management of stormwater as set out in the Council’s Stormwater Management Plan (Nov 2004) and as revised in December, 2008. The Council’s Management Plan established that proceeds raised through the charge would be used to fund payment of the internal loan from the Council’s sewerage fund to carry out significant capital works specified in the Stormwater Management Plan. It was anticipated that these funds will be complemented by developer charges. During 2008/09 kerb and gutter and drainage capital works projects to the value of $586,052 were carried out in accordance with priorities identified in the Stormwater Management Plan. This compared to a budget amount of $391,000 for capital works identified in the plan. There were also 3 projects carried forward including their budget amounts totally $66,000 and these will be completed in the 2009/10 financial year.

Waste Management Continuing a focus on recycling, the Council continues to operate the DrumMUSTER program for the collection of clean empty farm chemical containers. The Council has also decided to waive the disposal fees for all recyclable materials as part of a waste minimisation strategy implemented by the Council and to encourage residents to dispose of any recyclables they may have stockpiled. Park’s Victoria’s decision to implement a “Carry In – Carry Out” rubbish policy along the Victorian side of the border continues to pose a significant challenge for waste management in Berrigan Shire. The Department’s policy led to the complete removal of bulk rubbish bins for campers on the southern side of the River, resulting in a significant increase in the quantity of rubbish being brought to, and disposed of in Berrigan Shire during peak tourism times. The Council has made provision for facilities to be made available to campers at Tocumwal tip, and is also providing, at significant cost to the Council, bulk rubbish bins in Tocumwal. This is expected to be an ongoing problem. The 2008/2009 financial year saw the commencement of the new contract for the kerbside waste and recyclable collection services. The Council participated in a joint tender for new contractors, with Moira Shire Council and following assessment of the tenders received, the tender was awarded to DS Kendall Waste Services Pty Ltd.


Due to the existing hole reaching its full capacity, and in order to facilitate the operation of the Berrigan tip, a new cell for a total cost of $30,000 was dug and a netting mesh fence was installed for $4,300.

A new wheelie bin emptying facility for $5,000 was provided to assist in reducing the risks associated with the manual handling of the bins brought to the tip for emptying.

Under the Occupational Health & Safety Regulation 2001, an employer must ensure that appropriate amenities are available for all of the employer’s employees while they are at work, therefore, the Council purchased an amenity building for the Tocumwal tip for a total cost of $5,000.

PRINCIPAL ACTIVITIES – ENVIRONMENT


To reduce the Council’s consumption of resources and to extend the life of existing infrastructure.

Investigation of opportunities to improve the Council’s environmental sustainability through reduced demand for natural resource for either new works or operations and through extending the life of existing infrastructure.

Incomplete This project has not commenced.

To reduce the Council’s future costs, reduce consumption of natural resources and minimize the environmental impacts of its operations.

Conduct of energy audits to identify areas of the Council’s operations where waste can be reduced or eliminated.

Incomplete This project has not commenced.

To work with the community to highlight areas can save water and energy.

Services provided to the community to identify areas of energy and water savings

Ongoing Murray Regional Development Board has conducted Shire wide audits to individual household to identify areas of energy savings.

To prepare a strategic management plan for waste facilities within the Shire.

Strategic Waste Management Plan adopted.

Carried Forward This objective is a low priority for the Council and will be completed as resources permit.

Kerb & Gutter New Kerb and Gutter projects completed in 2008/09 as half cost schemes with adjoining property owners include: • Deniliquin Street, Tocumwal – between Charlotte Street and Hannah Street • Jerilderie Street, Tocumwal – between Hennessy Street and Kelly Street • Kelly Street, Tocumwal – between Charlotte Street and Emily Street New and replacement Kerb and Gutter projects at full cost to Council completed in 2008/09 include: • Nangunia Street, Barooga – West side Wiruna Street to Botanic Gardens • Finley Street, Tocumwal – North side Hoyle Street to culdesac In addition to the above, the Warmatta Street Mall in Finley has benefited from streetscape works including kerb and gutter, footpath and sealing.


Footpaths Footpath works during 2008/09 include: Coree Street, Finley – replace a number of sections of footpath Deniliquin Street, Tocumwal – footpath construction from Newell Highway to Anzac Avenue Murray Street, Tocumwal – footpath construction from ‘Murray Haven’ to Bruton Street Golfcourse Road, Barooga – 1.75km of Bike/Footpath re-sealed

Street Lighting The installation of street lighting is carried out in accordance with priorities established through a survey of the Council’s existing street lighting infrastructure. In order to maximise the available budget, new street lights are added to the network on a town per year basis. In 2008/09 the street lighting budget of $22,600 was allocated to works in Finley with 21 new lights installed.

Parks & Gardens Berrigan Shire Council’s routine maintenance on all parks and streets within the towns is a continuing program. Once again as a result of the drought, few new projects were commenced in 2008/09. The Council’s major contribution to new works remains the development and beautification of Railway Park in Finley. In association with the Finley Railway Committee, the Council has made an ongoing commitment to minor tree planting and replacement, and the installation of a dripper system, although the continuing drought has caused a delay with this work. Another major project was tree management under power lines within the Shire’s towns. This project was undertaken by Country Energy contractors. No table

Asset Management Council’s asset management system has now been developed to the stage that reliable inventories and mapping locations of assets are in place for all major asset categories. In the 2008/09 year the foundations were laid for the development of Asset Management Plans from existing strategic business plans to ensure Council is aware of the resources required for the preservation of assets over the long term.


PRINCIPAL ACTIVITIES – INFRASTRUCTURE


To review to Council’s Business Plan for Road Assets

Business Plan for Road Assets reviewed and adopted.

Incomplete Review that commenced with external consultant collapsed with the Council now preparing the Plan with internal resources. Plan will be completed during 2009/2010.

Development and Building Control Development activity throughout the Shire slowed further during 2008/09 consistent with trends elsewhere. This reduction in building activity may be due to a number of factors including higher interest rates, rising fuel costs, lower share market returns, the effect of drought conditions and ongoing negative publicity in the national press about the condition of the Murray River and water. Typically it is a natural cycle and indicative of the state and national economy. Subdivision consents consisted mostly of villa unit construction and boundary adjustments and did not result in additional vacant land for future development. The following table and graphs show the spread and type of development activity across the Shire. The development consent statistics however, are not always a true reflection of building activity, as some developments may have been approved in previous years and are only now being constructed. Similarly, the consents granted in 2008/09 may be staged over a number of years, or may never commence at all.

NUMBER OF APPLICATIONS DETERMINED BY LOCATION Type of Development 2007/08 2008/09

Barooga Berrigan Finley Tocumwal Total

New Dwellings 64 13 10 3 21 47

Dwelling Additions incl. sheds, garages, private pools, gazebos & carports.

77 19 9 7 25 60

Industrial Development 4 0 0 0 2 2

Commercial Development

43 10 2 5 8 25

Rural 12 1 0 0 0 1

Miscellaneous 9 0 1 2 2 5

Subdivisions (no. of lots)

23 (80 lots)

4 (9 lots)

1 (4 lots)

1 (2 lots)

5 (11 lots)

11 (26 LOTS)

TOTAL 232 47 23 18 63 151


VALUE OF DEVELOPMENT Type of Development 2007/08 2008/09

New Dwellings $12,588,879 $8,848,457

Dwelling Additions incl. sheds, garages, private pools, gazebos & carports.

$1,225,962 $1,278,283

Industrial Development $282,630 $180,000

Commercial Development $5,559,070 $3,678,700

Rural $51,800 $0

Miscellaneous $120,000 $6,000

Subdivisions $11,000 $5,000

TOTAL $19,839,341 $13,996,440


DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITY – TOTAL VALUE

DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITY BY TYPE


NEW DWELLINGS – DETERMINATIONS BY TOWN

Animal Control The continuation of the drought conditions, reduced livestock numbers, and good prices have resulted in another year of few problems requiring the Ranger to respond to wandering animals on roads. Livestock owners are more aware of the implications and liabilities arising from inadequate fencing and supervision, and producers have a better understanding of the Council’s environmental aims to revegetate and conserve lineal roadside reserves. A small number of enquiries were received seeking permission to graze shire roadsides and 5 penalty infringement notices were issued for animals left unattended on public roads. The care and responsible ownership of dogs continues to be an area of concern in all townships. The Environmental Liaison & Enforcement Officer is endeavouring to increase public awareness of responsible pet ownership. Clause 217(1)(f) of the NSW Local Government (General) Regulation 2005, requires the Council to provide a statement in the Annual Report on activities during the year in relation to the enforcement and compliance with the Companion Animals Act 1998 and Regulations. The Council is required to complete and submit to the Department of Local Government a survey of seizures of cats and dogs annually before 30 September. This pound collection data was submitted as required.


The following statistics relate to companion animal control for 2008/09:

Number

Total Dogs Seized 72

Dogs Returned to Owner 4

Dogs Impounded 68

Dogs Released 11

Dogs Euthanized 51

Cats Impounded 9

Cats Euthanized 9

Penalty Infringement Notices Issued – Dogs 23

Penalty Infringement Notices Issued – Livestock 6

Value of Penalty Notices $3,355

It was not necessary to report any dog attacks to the Department or to declare any dogs as ‘dangerous’ during the year. Funding statistics in relation to animal management activities are set out in the table below:

Expenses 2008/09 Value

Companion Animal and Livestock Impounding – Staff Salaries $46,927

Companion Animal and Livestock Impounding – Vehicle Operating costs $11,623

Companion Animal and Livestock Impounding – Telephone Expenses $1,090

Dog Food Expenses $973

Daily Dog and Cat Pound Maintenance – Cleaning etc. $17,164

Capital Works Improvements to Pound Facility 0

TOTAL EXPENSES $77,777

Revenue 2008/09 Value

Companion Animal Registration Fee Reimbursement $2,584

Penalty Notices – Fines received $1,349

TOTAL REVENUE $3,933

The tables above clearly show that compliance and enforcement of the Companion Animals legislation is a significant burden upon Council resources. Section 85(1a) of the Act requires a Council to use any money paid from the fund to be applied only for purposes that relate to the management and control of companion animals in its area. Obviously, all money reimbursed to the Council from payment of registration fees into the Companion Animals Fund is quickly used. Community education programs and strategies used to promote responsible pet ownership are limited to letterbox drop pamphlets and notices in the Council Bulletin page of local newspapers when considered necessary. The Council does not have any strategies in place to promote and assist with desexing of dogs and cats and relies upon established, differential registration fees as a deterrent.


Companion animals are kept in the pound for the prescribed periods and where young, well bred animals are not claimed, attempts are made to seek alternatives to euthanasia. Occasionally an RSPCA or Council shelter in a larger regional area such as Wodonga, Shepparton, Echuca or Albury will agree to accept an unclaimed animal from the Council. Developed off leash exercise areas are not provided in any of the Shire’s towns. An off leash area was originally declared available at the old recreation reserve in Berrigan but has not been widely used. Investigation of alternative locations in each town has not been considered a high priority. Upon introduction of the Companion Animals Act 1989, the Council adopted a Local Animal Management Plan (LAMP) and has since set about implementing the identified actions. Unsuccessful attempts have been made to establish a community consultation group to advise the Council on companion animal issues. A review of the LAMP is due to be undertaken.

State of the Environment Report Preparation of a Comprehensive State of the Environment Report for 2008/09 as prescribed in Section 428 of the Local Government Act 1993, has been undertaken by Habitat Planning consultants from Albury on behalf of most of the Councils in the Riverina and Murray Regional Organisation of Councils (RAMROC) region. The Councils of the Central Murray Region have used his approach over the last ten years in an attempt to produce a more useful document with clear pressure – state – response models. That is, to identify the pressure that human activities have placed on their immediate environment and natural surroundings; to identify the current and projected state of the environment; and to identify and describe the response of councils, government agencies, industry and communities to the pressure on the environment. A copy of the Comprehensive State of the Environment Report is attached as Appendix 3

Planning Agreements In accordance with Section 93G(5) of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, Berrigan Shire Council did not have any planning agreements in force during 2008/09.


Council Facilities Finley Livestock Exchange The Finley Livestock Exchange is a modern ring selling saleyard that provides local producers the opportunity to sell cattle and sheep in an open market. In 2008/09 the Council made the decision to withdraw from the direct operations of the saleyard and lease the facility to a private operator. This decision was made after many years of drought and subsequent low throughput combined with ever increasing statutory and regulatory requirements. The Council is still committed to the future operation of the yards and remains responsible for the facility in its capacity as owner and as the regulatory body regarding health and amenity. The Council is currently renegotiating a longer term lease agreement with the current operator of the facility.

PRINCIPAL ACTIVITIES – SALEYARDS


To review the operation of Finley saleyards to reduce financial losses and to provide continuing service availability.

Financial losses reduced or eliminated. Services continued

Completed Operation of Finley Saleyards leased to a private operator. Council losses reduced.

Tocumwal Aerodrome Now in its second year under direct Council management, the benefits of regular capital and maintenance expenditure are obvious through the general, incremental improvement in facilities. Little private investment abutting the aerodrome occurred during 2008/09. Capital works completed by the Council during 2008/09 included: - Re-sheeting of the perimeter road - Minor drainage improvements - Installation of a “beep back” frequency response unit for pilots.

Swimming Pools The Council operates outdoor public swimming pools in Berrigan, Finley and Tocumwal during the summer months, usually between November and March. The pools are supervised by temporary employees and are maintained on a daily basis by Section 355 Community Committees of Management who set opening hours and ticket prices. The Council provides an annual operating budget and funding for repairs and maintenance of the pools. The committee undertake additional fundraising for equipment and improvements to the facilities. Over recent years, significant funds have been expended on the repair, sealing and resurfacing of both Berrigan and Finley swimming pools. Considerable effort has


been directed to identifying and rectifying leakage through pool joints, pipe penetrations and faults. This work will result in the extended useable life of the pool facilities and provide for continued water education activities and recreation use of the pools by the community. In 2007 the Council commissioned the Royal Life Saving Society of Australia to undertake audits of its pools to identify hazards and prioritise future required works. From this audit, a range of necessary improvements, including improved signage, equipment and training was identified and a plan developed to address them. Implementation of the plan has continued in 2008/09. A change to the operation of the public pools took place in the 2008/09 season with the employment of a permanent Pool Supervisor, responsible for pool operations . In addition, the Council’s trained water and sewerage operators were made responsible for operating the public swimming pools water treatment systems. This system, while at an additional cost to the Council, has improved the safety and amenity of the facilities for patrons and volunteer assistants. The Council also provides a financial contribution to the Barooga Sports Club who operates an indoor heated swimming pool and gymnasium in Barooga that operates year round and provides disabled access.

Caravan Parks Berrigan Shire Council controls caravan parks at Tocumwal and Berrigan. The Berrigan Caravan Park is managed by the Berrigan Lions Club with financial assistance from the Council to assist with the basic upkeep of the area. The Tocumwal Caravan Park has been leased to a private operator and this situation is continuing to reap benefits for the community and the Council. The Tocumwal Caravan Park now operates at a small profit to the Council. No capital works were required by the Council during 2008/09. The Council also operates a camping area at Town Beach in Tocumwal. This area works on a permit system, with permits available through the Tocumwal Visitor Information Centre. This system is working well and is helping the Council to meet its public liability responsibilities for the management of this area and to provide low cost, traditional family camping opportunities.

Cemeteries Berrigan Shire Council manages public cemeteries in Barooga, Berrigan, Finley and Tocumwal. The cemeteries are maintained by local community groups who are paid a small honorarium in return. The Council has proposed a mapping program in 2008/09 to spatially locate all burials and to publish information about burials on the Council website. Information on burials is available at present by contacting the Council administration office.


Organisational Development In December 2004 the Department of Local Government undertook a Focussed Review of the Council’s operations as part of the Local Government Reform Program – Promoting Better Practice Program. The objectives for the focussed review strategy were to: • Generate greater compliance to legislation across local government; • Provide an ‘early intervention’ option for councils experiencing operating

problems; • Promote good governance and the principles of ethical conduct; and • Enable the Department to use review information to provide feedback into its work

identifying necessary legislative and policy work for the local government sector. Senior Investigations Officer John Canadi and Senior Finance Officer Scott Wallace made up the team who conducted an on-site review of the Council in December 2004. This review consisted of briefings with the Mayor and General Manager, interviews with other staff and the review of a number of the council’s policies and other documents. In a report provided to the Council in March 2005 the review team divided their recommendations into three sections: • Governance; • Asset and Financial Management; and • Community and Consultation. The Promoting Better Practice Review of Council made 19 recommendations on improvements to the Council’s systems and practices. Active implementation of the actions commenced in November 2005 and while most of the recommendations have been implemented a small number have not been finalised. Recommendations not yet completed include the preparation of a business continuity plan, the establishment of an internal audit function, development of a long-term financial plan, and the review of procurement, disposal and use of external contractor policies. The Council has commissioned a contractor to prepare a Business Continuity Plan and this is expected to be complete in 2009/10. In March 2008, as part of the formal annual review of the program, the Council wrote to the Department Government advising them that with the exception of one item (the preparation of a business continuity plan), the final recommendations will not be completed until after the Department of Local Government releases guidelines or finalises reviews relating to the outstanding items (in the case of procurement, the Council has been awaiting the release of the new guidelines since 2005). This will allow the Council to continue to pursue other higher priority activities and minimise the duplication of resources on carrying out tasks that will need to be repeated when the guidelines are finally released.

PRINCIPAL ACTIVITIES – GOVERNANCE Governance


Following Council elections in 2008 develop and implement a Councillor induction and training Program.

Induction and training Program developed and implemented.

Completed


Economic Development The Strategic Economic Development plan (SEDP) largely defines the activities undertaken by the Council’s Economic Development Unit. The SEDP is reviewed on an annual basis and covers the four key areas of:

• Strategic Land Use; • Building Business; • Labour Attraction & Retention; and • Promoting Investment.

In addition to the prioritised activities various projects and activities are undertaken by the Unit either under delegation from the Council or opportunistically to help achieve the Council’s strategic economic development goals. The economic situation experience through 2008/09 has seen a significant decline in economic activity throughout the Shire. The effect of the national economic environment has been compounded by the continuing local drought conditions and the Federal Government’s water buy back program.

STRATEGIC LAND USE

• Local Environmental Plan – As part of the NSW Government’s Planning Reform Program all Council’s in NSW are required to review their Local Environmental Plan in line with the approved template within a maximum 5 year period. While this project had been progressing well, the Council has now been advised by the Department of Planning that it is reducing its priority for completion of the new LEP and progress has slowed significantly. This slower than anticipated progress towards adoption of a new LEP is of great concern as the Department of Planning previously stopped the Council’s last attempt to adopt a new LEP due to imminent legislative changes.

BUILDING BUSINESS • Business Promotion – The need for a Berrigan Shire Business Awards night

was identified some 10 years ago and has been held on an annual basis ever since. The founding objectives were to showcase local businesses and people, to learn about locally available products and services and use the Awards night to bring together the community. Berrigan Shire Council again has successfully organised and held the awards night, which has received significant support and positive feedback from the local community.

LABOUR ATTRACTION AND RETENTION • Local Employment Expo – The sixth annual Local Employment Expo was held

at Finley High School during June 2009. The Expo aims to promote the career options available locally and link “local kids to local jobs”. As a part of the Expo students chose what specific type of business or organisation they wished to visit and then where possible, a suitable match was arranged. Universities, colleges, TAFE, and local employment agencies were also on-hand at the school to assist students with information about the various services and courses they offer. The Employment Expo is organised in partnership with Finley High School, the Riverina Institute of TAFE, Youth Career Services and the local business


community. Some funding was obtained through the NSW Department of Education and Training.

• Workplacement Student of the Year Award – Established in 2005, the Workplacement Student of the Year Award recognises the importance of vocational education and training in helping to fill local skills shortages. Sponsored by Youth Career Services, the Award is presented at the Berrigan Shire Business and Environment Awards in April each year. The 2009 recipient of the Award was Bianca Nolan, who undertook a Workplacement at Amaroo Aged Care Hostel in Berrigan.

• Berrigan Shire Accommodation Scholarship – The Berrigan Shire Accommodation Scholarship aims to assist a local student to obtain university qualifications while strengthening their link with the local community. The scholarship is offered in partnership with Charles Sturt University Wagga Wagga, with scholarship recipients able to live in the “Berrigan Shire Room” of a self-contained on-campus cottage rent free for two semesters.

• Berrigan Shire Local Government Scholarship – The Berrigan Shire Local Government Scholarship aims to provide a local student with the opportunity to acquire the skills, qualifications and experience to pursue a career with the Council in a field of identified skills shortages. Offered on a biennial basis to students from the local government area, the scholarship includes 12 weeks paid vacation employment each year with the Council, reimbursement of textbook costs, and full-time employment with the Council following graduation. In addition, for each year the student continues employment with the Council following graduation, the Council will repay one year of the deferred course tuition fees. The inaugural recipient of this scholarship was Shayla Razga of Barooga who has now completed her Bachelor of Public Health degree at La Trobe University Bendigo. Shayla has commenced full time employment with the Council. Funding towards this scholarship has been received from the Department of Local Government.

PROMOTING INVESTMENT • Business Enquiries – The Unit routinely provides assistance to businesses

looking to invest in Berrigan Shire. To assist with these enquiries the Unit provides a range of information and statistics on the local area, helps businesses identify suitable development sites, acts as an advocate for developers, and provides referrals to relevant agencies and assistance services. In 2008/09 there were multiple enquiries to the Unit, covering a range of business opportunities including retail, manufacturing, residential development, and carbon minimisation technologies.


PRINCIPAL ACTIVITIES – ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Strategic and Economic Development


To develop a strategic plan to improve the opportunity to see the Tocumwal Intermodal Facility develop into a major regional facility.

Development of strategic plan Development of promotional material. Appropriate land rezoned to accommodate facility expansion.

Ongoing A draft strategic plan has been prepared. Appropriate rezoning proposals are included in the Council’s proposed new Local Environmental Plan.

The develop and implement a new Local Environmental Plan in accordance with the State standard template

Local Environmental Plan developed and implemented.

Ongoing The project extends over a number of years and the Council is actively working through development of the required components. The Dept of Planning has lower the Council’s priority for completion of the Plan which effectively means that the expected completion date will not be met as the State will focus its resources on other higher priority Plans.

To review the Councils Strategic Economic Development Plan.

Strategic Economic Development Plan reviewed

Completed Plan adopted by the Council.

Commence implementation of strategic projects in the Council’s Strategic Economic Development Plan.

Conduct of Employment Expo. Provision of tertiary scholarships. Award of “workplace Student” award Development of business newsletter. Development of promotional materials

Completed Employment Expo held at Finley High School. CSU accommodation scholarship offered but not taken up Local Government scholarship offered but not taken up. “Workplace Student of the Year” Award made at annual Business Awards night. Business Newsletter developed and circulated. Promotional materials reviewed and reformatted.

To foster investment within the Shire through promotional and opportunistic activities

Investment generated. Opportunities addressed

Ongoing Significant effort taken to pursue retail opportunities. Aged residential opportunities pursued Global Financial Crisis has temporarily depleted investment opportunities.

To provide future development land at Tocumwal Aerodrome.

Land subdivided and available for purchase and development.

Incomplete Draft subdivisional plan prepared. To be completed during 2009/2010.


Risk Management Berrigan Shire Council’s Risk management system operates under a defining policy which outlines how risk management functions are included into Council’s daily activities, a risk management framework which describes how risks will be managed, and the Risk Management Committee which provides the consultation mechanism to determine the future targets of the Council’s risk management activities. Throughout 2008/09 Berrigan Shire Council has maintained a consistent focus on risk management. By adopting a more systematic approach to risk management, the Council has been able to utilise the Special Rate Variation to address those areas of public risk that have been identified as a priority. These areas have been deemed as:

• Swimming Pools • Water Hazards • Playgrounds • Recreation Reserves • Parklands

The issues that have been identified at these facilities have involved mitigation works, signage and significant volunteer involvement. The following table outlines the projects and outcomes achieved through funding from the Special Rate Variation during 2008/09. Any remaining funds will be carried forward to 2009/10.

Project/Program Outcomes Achieved Expenditure

Pool Mitigation Works Mitigation works included concrete works at the Finley Pool, signage and first aid equipment for all pools.

$5,121.00

Park Mitigation Works Works for parks included minor works to the Barooga Parks and Barooga Foreshore and Mary Lawson Wayside Rest, Finley.

$645.50

Playground Safety Further risk mitigation works at playgrounds included Finley Memorial Park and Tocumwal Foreshore Park

$1,302.00

Recreation Reserve Mitigation Works

Underground power – Finley Recreation Reserve and Main Entrance – Tocumwal Recreation Reserve

$12,460.50

TOTAL EXPENDITURE $19,529.00

Carried forward from 2007/08

$(65,259.00)

Special Rate Variation 2008/09

$(72,270.00)

CARRIED FORWARD TO 2009/10

$(118,000.00)

In addition to the activities addressing public risk issues, substantial emphasis has been placed on:

• Occupational Health and Safety • Volunteer Management • Business Continuity


Principal Activities – Risk Management


There is a need to ensure that the Council’s emergency management systems consider the changing risks that may emerge from climate change.

Potential risks recognized and planned for.

Completed Local Emergency Management Committee is active. Review has been completed.

To implement the already adopted Swimming Pools Risk Assessment to improve public safety at the Council’s swimming pools.

Risks for users of public swimming pools reduced.

Completed Pool Supervisor appointed. Implementation audits completed. External audit completed. Signage completed.

To reduce the public risk associated with water bodies that may be accessible to the public.

Prepare a risk assessment for “Loco Dam”. Implement prioritized actions from the risk assessment.

Incomplete Risk assessment has been completed.

Public risk at recreational reserves needs to be systematically assessed and mitigated to improve safety.

Comprehensive risk assessments completed. Implement prioritized actions from the risk assessments.

Ongoing All risk assessments completed. Committees of Management advised of assessments and provided with treatment plans for implementation.

To reduce the Council’s exposure to potential fraud.

Policy developed. Conduct fraud risk assessments.

Incomplete Policy completed. Assessments not completed.

To improve public safety and risk management the Council needs to continue to implement the actions outlined in its Risk Management Plan.

Development and adoption of a “Gathering Information” policy to integrate the Council’s complaint handling and works program systems.

Ongoing The Council is working with its insurer to develop the required policy.


The Council will review its public liability claims procedures.

Completed The Council has received a new claims management manual from its insurer.


The Council will review its Liability Management policy.

Incomplete Not yet commenced and will be completed during 2009/2010.


The Council will review its Occupation Health and Safety Policy and other associated policies.

Completed Policy has been reviewed and adopted by the Council.

To improve public safety and risk management the Council needs to continue to implement the actions outlined in its Risk Management Plan

Development and implementation of a Signage Policy for Council controlled sites and venues.

Completed Policy developed and implemented.


The Council will review its Constructed Footpath Risk Management Policy. The Council will develop processes for footpath openings.

Incomplete Footpath openings processes complete. Policy to be reviewed as staff resources permit.


The Council will review its policy for volunteering to incorporate risk management principles. The Council will develop volunteer management procedures. A policy will be developed to assist with recruitment snd management of volunteers.

Ongoing A draft policy has been developed in conjunction with Albury Wodonga Volunteer Resource Bureau and is being presented committees etc for feedback.


Objective Performance Indicator Outcome/Status A volunteer sign on/ sign off process will be developed. A volunteer training program will be developed. Volunteers will be involved in completing documented risk assessments. Situations where staff supervise volunteers will be identified. There will be ongoing review of volunteer activities.


Development of emergency and evacuation plans for all Council work sites Required staff training completed. Evacuation plans displayed. Emergency procedures communicated to contractors and visitors. Evacuation drills completed. Review process developed for evacuation plans, safety equipment and emergency procedures.

Carried Forward Not yet commenced.

The Council needs to ensure that its operations continue in the events of prolonged business interruption.

Development of a Business Continuity Plan. Responsibilities and task identified and allocated. Appropriate staff training completed. Plan tested and reviewed annually.

Ongoing Development of the Business continuity plan has commenced but is not completed.

The Council needs to ensure that its operations continue in the events of prolonged business interruption.

Participate in Statecover audit Develop action plan to implement audit results.

Completed Participated in the audit. Developed action plan from audit. Action plan prepared and implementation commenced.


Development and implementation of an asbestos management plan including an asbestos register.

Incomplete The Council and RAMROC have not been able to successfully complete this initiative principally due to lack of local expertise and the prohibitiving high cost of attracting a suitable consultant or contractor to the area. To be carried forward to 2009/2010.


Production of a “preferred Species” list of trees to be used when interaction with other assets such as water mains, buildings etc is likely.

Incomplete This project has not progressed due to a lack of staff resources.


Development, adoption and implementation of a tree management policy.

Ongoing Project has commenced with the existing records being combined with GPS coordinates. The project has not commenced beyond this point due to a lack of staff resources.


Freedom of Information Annual Statistical Report The Freedom of Information Act 1989 requires the Council to publish in its Annual Report statistical details of Freedom of Information requests for the period 1 July 2008 to 30 June 2009. Comparative data is provided with 2007/08.

2007/08 FOI Requests Personal Other Total

New (including transferred in) Nil 1 1

Brought forward Nil Nil Nil

Total to be processed Nil Nil Nil

Completed Nil 1 1

Transferred out Nil Nil Nil

Withdrawn Nil Nil Nil

Total processed Nil 1 1

Unfinished (carried forward) Nil Nil Nil

2008/09 FOI Requests Personal Other Total

New (including transferred in) Nil Nil Nil

Brought forward Nil Nil Nil

Total to be processed Nil Nil Nil

Completed Nil Nil Nil

Transferred out Nil Nil Nil

Withdrawn Nil Nil Nil

Total processed Nil Nil Nil

Unfinished (carried forward) Nil Nil Nil

No enquiries under the FOI Act were received from the Ombudsman during the financial year ending 30 June 2009, nor were there any appeals under the FOI Act to the District or Supreme Court. The Council operates a very open policy and generally makes non-confidential information available to the community. The impact relating to the implementation of this requirement is therefore very limited.


Statement of Affairs

Organisation Structure The following diagram outlines the organisation structure of Berrigan Shire Council:

Functions The Council’s major functions are specified by the Local Government Act 1993. Set out below are details of the Council’s Charter as set out in Section 8 of the Act. • To provide directly or on behalf of other levels of government, after due

consultation, adequate, equitable and appropriate services and facilities for the community and to ensure that those services and facilities are managed effectively.

• To exercise community leadership. • To exercise its functions in a manner that is consistent with and actively promotes

the principles of multiculturalism. • To promote and to provide and plan for the needs of children. • To properly manage, develop, protect, restore, enhance and conserve the

environment of the area for which it is responsible, in a manner that is consistent with and promotes the principles of ecologically sustainable development.

• To have regard to the long term and cumulative effects of its decisions. • To bear in mind that it is the custodian and trustee of public assets and to

effectively account for and manage the assets for which it is responsible. • To facilitate the involvement of councillors, members of the public, users of

facilities and services and council staff in the development, improvement and co-ordination of local government.

• To raise funds for local purposes by the fair imposition of rates, charges and fees, by income earned from investments and, when appropriate, by borrowings and grants.

• To keep the local community and the State government (and through it, the wider community) informed about its activities.

• To ensure that, in the exercise of its regulatory functions, it acts consistently and without bias, particularly where an activity of the council is affected.

• To be a responsible employer.

The Council

General Manager

Director of Corporate Services Director of Technical Services


Decision Making Functions The decision making body of the organisation is predominantly the Council. The General Manager also has specific delegated powers as contained in the Local Government Act 1993. The General Manager also has the power to delegate specific decision making functions to other officers. The details of the delegations to the General Manager and to other staff are contained in the Council’s Register of Delegations.

Community Participation The involvement of the community in making submissions to the Council when policies and plans of the Council are on public display is clearly contained in the Local Government Act, 1993. The Council also has an extensive range of community Committees which administer facilities directly on behalf of the community; and the Council has established Community Development Committees to advise the Council on matters relating to specific towns.

Public Documents The following documents are available at the Council's Offices for inspection: • Agendas and business papers for Council and committee meetings (but not

including business papers for matters considered when a meeting is closed to the public)

• Annual financial reports • Annual Report • Annual reports of bodies exercising delegated council functions • Any codes referred to in the Local Government Act, 1993 • Applications under Part 1 of Chapter 7 for approval to erect a building, and

associated documents • Auditor’s report • Departmental representatives’ reports presented at a meeting of the council in

accordance with section 433 • Development applications (within the meaning of the Environmental Planning and

Assessment Act 1979) and associated documents • EEO Management Plan • Environmental planning instruments, development control plans and plans made

under Section 94AB of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 applying to land within the Council’s area.

• Gift Register • Leases and licences for use of public land classified as community land • Local Emergency Management Plan (Displan) • Local policies adopted by the council concerning approvals and orders • Management Plan • Minutes of Council and Committee meetings, but restricted (in the case of any

meeting or part of a meeting that is closed to the public) to the resolutions and recommendations of the meeting

• Plans of land proposed to be compulsorily acquired by the Council • Plans of management for community land


• Records of approvals granted, any variation from local policies with reasons for the variation, and decisions made on appeals concerning approvals

• Records of building certificates under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979

• Register of delegations • Register of investments • Returns as to candidates’ campaign donations • Returns of the interests of Councillors, designated persons and delegates • The Council’s Land Register • The Council’s Policy concerning the payment of expenses incurred by, and the

provision of facilities to Councillors • The model code prescribed under section 440(1) and the code of conduct

adopted by the Council under section 440(3) • The register of graffiti removal work kept in accordance with section 67C • The Statement of Affairs, the Summary of Affairs and the register of policy

documents required under the Freedom of Information Act 1989 • Policy Manual, including the following policies:

1 COUNCIL NAME BADGES 2 UNAUTHORISED ADVERTISING STRUCTURE - REMOVAL OF 4 STREET STALLS 6 HIRE OF PLANT FOR COUNCIL WORKS 7 BERRIGAN AIRSTRIP 8 TOCUMWAL AERODROME 9 MURRAY RIVER WATER POLICY STATEMENT ON WATER QUALITY 11 STAFF SERVICE WITH THE AUSTRALIAN ARMY RESERVE 12 ATTENDANCE AT LOCAL GOVERNMENT CONFERENCES 13 HOUSING FOR STAFF MEMBERS 14 MAYOR'S SEDAN 16 USE OF THE COUNCIL CHAMBERS - FORMAL AREA 17 MONUMENTAL AND LAWN CEMETERIES 19 FEES - APPROVED FIRST AID COURSE 20 AUTHORITY TO SEND BUSH FIRE CONTROL UNITS OUTSIDE THE COUNCIL'S AREA

21 AUTHORITY TO SEND COUNCIL PLANT OUTSIDE THE COUNCIL'S AREA IN

EMERGENCY SITUATIONS 23 HIRE OF COUNCIL PLANT FOR PRIVATE WORKS 24 SELECTION OF STAFF MEMBERS 26 INSURANCE - RISK MANAGEMENT 28 ACCESS TO COUNCIL’S REFUSE DEPOT - SPECIAL EVENTS 29 COUNCIL CLOTHING POLICY 33 SALARY POLICY 34 DOG AND DOG IMPOUNDING POLICY 35 PUBLIC LIABILITY CLAIMS PROCEDURE 36 OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETY AND OBJECTIVES POLICY 37 POLICY FOR THE PAYMENT OF EXPENSES AND THE PROVISION OF FACILITIES FOR

MAYORS AND COUNCILLORS 38 STREET AND PUBLIC PLACE NAMING POLICY 39 STAFF REMUNERATION PACKAGE 40 PURCHASING POLICY 41 SERVICE RECOGNITION 42 PRESENTATION ON RETIREMENT FROM THE COUNCIL 44 SMOKE FREE ENVIRONMENT POLICY 45 PRE EMPLOYMENT MEDICAL POLICY 46 REHABILITATION POLICY 47 STREET BANNERS POLICY 48 ANNUAL CHRISTMAS DINNER 49 DEFERRED DEBTORS 50 ASSISTANCE WITH LEGAL EXPENSES 52 LEAVE POLICY (see also Policy No. 72 Annual and Other Leave Policy) 54 INTERNAL REPORTING POLICY 57 DRIVEWAYCONSTRUCTION 58 EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY POLICY STATEMENT 59 TRAINING POLICY STATEMENT


61 LONG SERVICE PAYMENTS 62 LOCAL APPROVALS POLICY 63 REFUND OF APPLICATION FEES 64 WASTE MANAGEMENT 65 CUSTOMER REQUEST / SUGGESTION POLICY 66 LIABILITY MANAGEMENT POLICY 67 STOCK IMPOUNDING POLICY 68 ASSISTANCE FOR ATTENDANCE OF INDIVIDUALS AT SPORTING AND OTHER EVENT

69 NEW KERBSIDE GARBAGE COLLECTION SERVICES 71 HEAT STRESS POLICY 72 ANNUAL AND OTHER LEAVE POLICY 73 REIMBURSEMENT OF RELOCATION EXPENSES POLICY 75 CHILD PROTECTION POLICY 76 CAPITAL GRANTS AND CONTRIBUTIONS POLICY 77 DRAINAGE CORRIDORS FIRE REDUCTION POLICY 79 CONSTRUCTED FOOTPATH RISK MANAGEMENT POLICY 80 ADMINISTRATION OF CONTRIBUTORY FOOTPATH AND KERB AND GUTTER SCHEMES

PURSUANT TO CLAUSES 217, 218 & 219 OF THE ROADS ACT 1993 81 PUBLIC INFORMATION POLICY 84 DRUG AND ALCOHOL FREE WORKPLACE POLICY 86 PUBLIC INTERNET USAGE 87 ATTENDANCE OF COUNCILLORS AT COMMUNITY MEETINGS AND EVENTS 88 WATER TRADING POLICY 89 POLICY FOR VOLUNTEERING IN BERRIGAN SHIRE 90 PRIVATE USE OF COUNCIL VEHICLES 91 COUNCIL INVOLVEMENT IN NEW ENTERPRISES 92 TENDER EVALUATION POLICY 93 TOCUMWAL AERODROME RUNWAY 04/22 94 RISK MANAGEMENT 95 ROAD OPENING POLICY 98 COMMUNICATION DEVICES POLICY 101 LIBRARY COLLECTION POLICY 102 FRAUD CONTROL POLICY 103 LOCAL POLICY FOR RELOCATION OF PREVIOUSLY USED RESIDENCES 104 REQUESTS FOR DONATIONS AND FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE 105 DEVELOPMENT ASSESSMENT AND CONTROL COMMUNITY CONSULTATION POLICY 106 PRIVATE USE OF COUNCIL VEHICLES – FUEL CHARGE 107 EARLY ISSUE OF SUBDIVISION CERTIFICATES 108 PERMANENT WATER SAVINGS POLICY 109 SIGNS AS REMOTE SUPERVISION 110 PLAYGROUND MANAGEMENT 111 LEGISLATIVE COMPLIANCE POLICY 112 INVESTMENT POLICY 113 LIBRARY SERVICE CHILDREN AND YOUNG PERSONS POLICY

The following Codes and Plans are also available for viewing: • Apex Park Plan of Management • Berrigan Local Environmental Plan 1992 • Code of Conduct • Code for Erection of Swimming Pools and Safety Fences • Cultural Plan 2005-2008 • Detached Dwellings Code • Development Control Plan No. 1 – “Village” • Development Control Plan No. 2 – “Exempt and Complying Development” • Development Control Plan No. 3 – “Parking” • Development Control Plan No. 4 for the Tocumwal Aerodrome • Development Control Plan for Residential Building Lines • Development Servicing Plan – Water • Development Servicing Plan - Sewer • Drought Management Plan • Ecologically Sustainable Development Statement


• Guarantee of Service • Library Management Plan 2006-2010 • Local and Neighbourhood Parks Plan of Management • Local Companion Animal Management Plan • Local Government Code of Accounting Practice and Financial Reporting • Murray Regional Environmental Plan No. 2 – Riverine Land • On Site Sewerage Management Plan • Operational Environmental Management Plan (OEMP) For Effluent Reuse On

Finley Golf Course • Pedestrian Access and Mobility Plan • Pesticide Use Notification Plan • Plan for the Management of the Corella Population at Tocumwal • Privacy Management Plan • Residential Flat Code • Risk Management Strategic Plan • Roadside Vegetation Management Plan • Section 94 Development Contributions Plan • Social/Community Plan July 2005 to June 2008 • State of the Environment Report • Statement of Business Ethics • Stormwater Management Plan & SBP • Strategic Business Plan – Road Assets • Strategic Business Plan - Sewer • Strategic Business Plan – Water • Strategic Economic Development Plan • Subdivision Code • Tocumwal Foreshore & Recreation Reserve Plan of Management • Water Demand Management Plan Any person may come to the Council’s office at 56 Chanter Street, Berrigan, and view the above information. Any enquiries should be directed to Matthew Hansen, the Council’s Public Officer on (03) 5888 5100. Any person can request to view his/her own personal record and can request the alteration of certain information that is held by the Council in connection with its administrative functions and if the information is, in the person’s opinion, incomplete, incorrect, out of date or misleading. Any records of a legal or accounting nature cannot be altered without proper approval or advice. ROWAN PERKINS GENERAL MANAGER


Operational Information Administrative Offices: 56 Chanter Street, Berrigan NSW 2712 Postal Address: PO Box 137, Berrigan NSW 2712 Telephone: (03) 5888 5100 Facsimile: (03) 5885 2092 E-mail: [email protected] Website: www.berriganshire.nsw.gov.au

OFFICE HOURS 8.00am to 5.00pm Monday to Friday

AFTER HOURS EMERGENCY CONTACTS: In the case of an emergency please contact the Council on (03) 5888 5100. A 24-hour emergency contact service is available through this number and the call can be diverted to the appropriate staff member on duty.

LIBRARY HOURS Library Hours Berrigan Finley Tocumwal Barooga

Monday Closed Closed Closed 2.30-6.00

Tuesday 9.30-5.30 Closed 9.30-5.30 Closed

Wednesday Closed 9.30-5.30 Closed 9.30-6.00

Thursday 9.30-5.30 Closed 9.30-5.30 Closed

Friday Closed 9.30-5.30 9.30-12.30 2.30-6.00

Saturday 9.30-12.00 9.30-12.00 9.30-12.00 9.30-12.00

Berrigan, Barooga, Finley and Tocumwal Libraries are closed from 12.30pm to 1.00pm for Lunch.


Appendices Appendix 1 – Payment of Expenses and Provision of Facilities Policy 2008/09

POLICY FOR THE PAYMENT OF EXPENSES AND THE PROVISION OF FACILITIES FOR MAYORS AND COUNCILLORS

1. INTRODUCTION This policy is made under Sections 252-254 of the Local Government Act 1993 (the Act) and in accordance with the Guidelines issued by the Department of Local Government (May 2007). The Act requires that the Council must annually adopt a policy concerning the payment of expenses incurred or to be incurred by, and the provision of facilities to, the Mayor, Deputy Mayor and the other Councillors in relation to discharging the functions of civic office. 1.1.1. Purpose of the Policy The purpose of the policy is to ensure that there is accountability and transparency in the reimbursement of expenses incurred or to be incurred by Councillors. The policy also ensures that the facilities provided to assist Councillors to carry out their civic duties are reasonable. 1.1.2. Policy Objectives • To outline the details and range of benefits provided to Councillors by the Council in a transparent manner. • To ensure that Councillors are reimbursed for expenses reasonably incurred in their performance of their role as a Councillor in a manner that is acceptable to the community. • To encourage members of the community to seek election to the Council by ensuring that they would not be financially or otherwise disadvantaged in undertaking the civic duties of a Councillor. 1.1.3. Making and adoption of the Policy Berrigan Shire Council is required on an annual basis to review and submit its policy to the Director-General of the Department of Local Government within 28 days of adoption by the Council, even if it is proposed to adopt an unchanged policy. Current policies must be submitted by 30 November each year. Before adopting or amending this policy, the Council must give public notice of its intention, and allow at least 28 days for public submissions. Any public submissions received will be considered and appropriate changes made prior to the adoption of the policy. If the proposed amendment is not substantial the Council is not required to provide public notice. The term “not substantial” should be taken to mean minor changes to the wording of the policy, or changes to monetary provisions or rates that are less than 5%. It also means minor changes to the standard of the provision of equipment and facilities. Any new category of expenses, facilities and equipment included in the policy will require public notice.


1.1.4. Reporting requirements Section 428 of the Local Government Act 1993 requires councils to include in their annual report: • The Council’s policy on the provision of facilities for, and the payment of expenses to, Mayors and Councillors. • The total amount of money expended during the year on providing those facilities and paying those expenses. • Additional information as required by the Local Government (General) Regulation 2005. 1.1.5. Legislative provisions • Sections 252-254 of the Local Government Act 1993 – Payment of expenses and provisions of facilities. • Section 428 of the Local Government Act 1993 – Annual reports • Clause 217 of the Local Government (General) Regulation 2005 – Additional information for inclusion in annual reports. • Clause 403 of the Local Government (General) Regulation 2005 – Payment of expenses and provision of facilities. • Notional Agreement Preserving the Local Government (State) Award 2004. 1.1.6. Other Government policy provisions • Department of Local Government Guidelines (May 2007) issued under section 23A of the Local Government Act 1993. • Department of Local Government Circulars to Councils

o Circular 05/08 Legal assistance for Councillors and council employees

o Circular 02/34 Unauthorised use of council resources • Model Code of Conduct for Local Councils in NSW, particularly Use of council resources. • ICAC Publication – No Excuse for Misuse, preventing the misuse of council resources. 1.1.7. Other relevant council documents and policies • Policy 1 – Council Name Badges • Policy 12 – Attendance at Local Government Conferences • Policy 14 – Mayor’s Sedan • Policy 90 – Private Use of Council Vehicles • Annual Schedule of Fees and Charges • Berrigan Shire Council Code of Conduct 2. PAYMENT OF EXPENSES 2.1 GENERAL PROVISIONS 2.1.1. Payment of expenses generally Berrigan Shire Council is committed to ensuring that Councillors are reimbursed for expenses reasonably incurred in their role of Councillor so


that they are not financially or otherwise disadvantaged in undertaking their civic duties. To ensure consistency and transparency all expenses and costs claimed must be done so in accordance with the requirements of this policy. Reimbursement of costs and expenses to Councillors will be processed following the submission of appropriate receipts and tax invoices, and the completion of the required claim forms. A claim form must include an itemized account of expenditure and should not be general in nature. Incidental expenses may not require specific receipts provided it can be demonstrated that expenditure was incurred, it was not general in nature, and that the Councillor certifies that the expense was for the purpose intended. Generally, this will only be acceptable when it was not possible to obtain a tax invoice or receipt, or proof or purchase was lost during the payment process (i.e. ticket taken and not returned by an automatic machine). Where possible, expenses should be claimed as part of the Councillor monthly return. If waiting until the time of the monthly return would cause undue hardship, arrangements can be made to submit an earlier claim. All expenses must be claimed within 12 weeks of being incurred. Berrigan Shire Council operates an internal requisition process that will enable most expenses associated with attendance at conferences, seminars and training courses to be directly invoiced to the council. This system can be used to cover expenses relating to registration fees, travel and accommodation. Where possible, provision will also be made for the cost of meals and incidentals not covered by registration fees to be charged back to the Council. This system will help minimize out-of-pocket expenditures to Councillors. In certain circumstances Councillors attending conferences, seminars and training away from home may request payment in advance, in anticipation of any additional expenses that may be incurred (ie meals not covered by registration fees, taxi fares etc.). In most cases the advance will be in the form of petty cash and will need to be pre-arranged with the Council’s Finance Department. On their return, Councillors must fully reconcile all expenses against the cost of the advance within 14 days. A general expense allowance will not be available under any circumstance. 2.1.2. Spouse and partner expenses On occasions, it will be appropriate, and in some cases a requirement, that Councillors will be accompanied by their spouse, partner or accompanying person4 to official functions and activities. In these instances, certain costs incurred by the Councillor on behalf of their partner (meaning spouse, partner or accompanying person), are properly

4 An accompanying person is a person who has a close personal relationship with the Councillor and/or provides carer support to the Councillor.


those of the Councillor in the performance of his or her functions and are thus reimbursable. Berrigan Shire Council will meet the reasonable costs of a partner attending official council functions within the local government area where it could be reasonably expected that the partner would attend. The Council will also meet the expenses for the partner of the Mayor (or a Councillor when they are representing the Mayor), when they are called on to attend an official function of council or carry out an official ceremonial duty outside of the council area. Where partners accompany Councillors to seminars and conferences and the like, the Councillor will be personally responsible for all additional costs associated with their partner’s attendance, including travel, accommodation, meals, partner’s programs etc. The payment of partner expenses for attending appropriate functions as permitted above will be confined specifically to the ticket, meal and/or the direct cost of attending the function. Peripheral expenses incurred by partners are not considered reimbursable expenses. 2.2. SPECIFIC EXPENSES FOR MAYORS AND COUNCILLORS 2.2.1. Travel All travel by Councillors should utilize the most direct route and the most practicable and economical mode of transport subject to any personal medical considerations. The mode and method of transportation to be used shall be agreed between the Council and the Councillor prior to the travel taking place, and where possible Councillors should attempt to travel with other representatives from the Council in order to minimize costs. Where possible, a Council fleet vehicle will be made available to Councillors traveling outside of the local government area. These vehicles will need to be booked with the General Manager. On occasions, it may be appropriate for Councillors using council vehicles to leave from home or another pre-arranged location due to the departure time. In these circumstances it may be reasonable for the Councillor borrowing the council vehicle to obtain the vehicle the night before. Likewise Councillors returning to Berrigan after 5pm may arrange to return the vehicle the following morning. 2.2.1.1. Local travel arrangements and expenses As a rural council it should be recognized that Councillors will need to travel in order to carry out their civic duties. In addition to travel within the local government area, it may be necessary for Councillors to travel outside of the local government area in order to represent the Council at meetings or events, or to take part in conferences and training activities. In most cases transportation options are limited,


and with little or no public transportation the majority of travel will be by private or council provided motor vehicle. While the Council is committed to meeting the special needs of Councillors in order to maximize participation in civic duties, the inherent nature of local government in a rural setting makes it necessary for Councillors to provide their own transport for activities within the LGA. Where Councillors use their private vehicle for attendance at local events as part of their official duties they will be reimbursed at a rate determined by the relevant State Industrial Agreement for vehicle expenses, and should claim reimbursement as part of the their usual monthly return. 2.2.1.2. Travel outside the LGA including interstate travel It is acknowledged that Berrigan Shire Council is a border community and that interstate travel to Victoria will be essential in the carrying out of the council’s official duties. As such, travel to official events and activities in Victoria will be regarded in the same way as travel to locations in NSW. As a rural LGA it is often necessary for Councillors to travel outside of the Shire in the conduct of their official duties. Councillors traveling to meetings and events within 200km of Berrigan Shire do not require the specific approval of the Council or General Manager. Where possible, a council vehicle will be made available to Councillors traveling to events within 200km of the Shire. Where this is not possible Councillors will be reimbursed for the private use of their vehicle at the rate determined by the relevant Industrial Agreement for vehicle expenses and claimed as part of their monthly return. Travel to meetings and events that are more than 200km from Berrigan Shire should be undertaken with the General Manager’s consent. In these circumstances travel arrangements should be organized in consultation with the General Manager. If travel by motor vehicle is the most suitable method of transportation, the Council will endeavour to provide a council vehicle. If it is not possible to utilize a council vehicle, the Council may agree to the Councillor supplying their own vehicle. Where the Council agrees for a Councillor to supply their own vehicle, the Councillor may claim a reimbursement for the use of their vehicle for the distance traveled at the rate specified in the relevant Industrial Agreement. If the Councillor chooses to use their own vehicle despite a council vehicle being made available, or without the prior agreement of the Council, they will be ineligible to claim a reimbursement for travel more than 200km from the Shire. Approval to travel to destinations in states other than NSW, the ACT or Victoria for the conduct of council business requires the prior approval of the Council. The application for approval should include full details of the trip, including itinerary, costs and reasons for travel. Travel arrangements for interstate travel will be coordinated by the Council on behalf of the Councillor.


2.2.1.3. Overseas travel Berrigan Shire Council will not undertake any overseas travel unless a direct and tangible benefit for the council and the local community can be established. All overseas travel will be approved by a meeting of the full council prior to a Councillor undertaking a trip. Travel will be approved on an individual trip basis and retrospective re-imbursement of overseas travel expenses that have not previously been authorized will not be permitted. Before a proposal for overseas travel is approved, a detailed proposal, including nomination of the Councillors undertaking the trip, purpose of the trip, expected benefits, duration, itinerary and approximate costs, will be furnished to the Council as part of a council business paper. After returning from overseas, Councillors will provide a detailed report to a meeting of the Council on the aspects of the trip relevant to council business and/or the local community. 2.2.1.4. Reimbursement of Motor Vehicle Expenses Fuel costs associated with travel in a private motor vehicle will be reimbursed based on distance traveled at the rate specified in the relevant State Industrial Agreement, and not the cost of fuel. Where travel is undertaken in a council fleet vehicle, where practicable, council vehicles should be refueled at the Council Depot in Berrigan, or alternatively the fuel card supplied with the vehicle may be used. If neither of these options is feasible, Councillors may use an alternative fuel distributor and claim reimbursement for the actual cost of fuel. Fuel cards may be used for fuel and oil only and Councillors will need the password to use the fuel card. Receipts for all transactions are required. 2.2.1.5. Infringement Notices Councillors are personally responsible for all traffic or parking fines incurred while traveling in private or council vehicles on council business. 2.2.1.6. Vehicle Security Where travel overnight is required, and it is necessary to leave either a council or private vehicle being used with council approval in a public place such as an airport, the staff member should, where possible, utilize a secure parking area and claim a reimbursement for the relevant parking fee on their return. 2.2.1.7. Travel Using Other Forms of Travel Where a Councillor is traveling by transport other than a private motor vehicle, the Council will meet the full actual cost of travel to and from events, including any associated costs such as parking and road tolls. These arrangements cover travel by air, public transport, taxis, hire cars etc. and should be arranged in consultation with the General Manager.


2.2.1.8. Extending travel arrangements Councillors wishing to extend their stay in a destination they have visited for council purposes, or to travel to an alternative location, will require the prior approval of the General Manager. In such instances Councillors should recognize that the Council’s responsibility for their travel ends when the business activity ends and not when they return home. Any additional costs incurred following the completion of the business activity, including meal costs and accommodation, are not considered to be reimbursable expenses. 2.2.2. Accommodation costs In carrying out their civic duties, Councillors will sometimes need to stay away from home. In these circumstances the Council will meet all reasonable accommodation expenses including breakfast and incidentals associated with attendance at events, save that partners shall be responsible for any additional accommodation, meals and incidental expenses incurred on their behalf. The wide range of events and conferences that Councillors attend often means that there is a diverse range of prices and standards for accommodation. For example the costs of staying in accommodation of a similar standard can be considerably different from regional to urban areas. Similarly, it may sometimes be necessary for a Councillor to stay in cabin accommodation at a conference in a regional area, or at a 4½ or 5 star venue in the city if this is the venue for a conference or event. Reasonableness will be determined by the General Manager and will depend on the location of the event and the standards of accommodation available. In considering which events it may be appropriate for Councillors to attend, the potential cost of accommodation will be taken into consideration before a decision to participate is made. Where a Councillor attends events that require travel outside of Berrigan Shire that would necessitate leaving home before 6am, returning home after 10.00pm, or an overall working day exceeding 10 hours, then the Councillor may include accommodation after the event in travel arrangements. This should be done in consultation with the General Manager. Where the Council conducts Corporate Planning events at a location more than 200km from Berrigan Shire, it shall provide accommodation on the evening before and each day of attendance, or as appropriate within these guidelines. 2.2.3. Incidental expenses Reasonable out of pocket or incidental expenses associated with attending official functions, conferences, seminars or training courses that Councillors incur may be reimbursed upon the presentation of official receipts and the completion of the necessary claim forms. The Council will reimburse the actual cost of transport related expenses such as taxi fares, parking fees and road tolls. Other incidental expenses such as telephone


or facsimile calls will be limited to $20 per day, or such amount as may be negotiated with the General Manager. Where Councillors are required to carry out official duties outside of the LGA or sleep away from home, each Councillor may claim reimbursement for the actual cost of sustenance (food and beverages) to a maximum of $200 per day or such amount as may be negotiated with the General Manager. The cost of meals not included in registration fees for conferences or similar functions may be reimbursed after reconciliation. Councillors who choose not to eat a meal provided as part of a conference registration or accommodation package or the like will not be reimbursed for any additional food costs incurred. Councillors may also claim reimbursement for meal or refreshments expenses incurred while attending business functions or meetings. In some circumstances it may be appropriate to offer an appropriate level of hospitality to non-council employees attending the meeting/function at the Council’s request. Meals or refreshments of this nature should be modest and the costs of meals limited to those outlined above, unless prior approval has been received from the General Manager. In order for these expenses to be reimbursed, it is important that the Councillor involved organizes pre-approval of these expenses with the General Manager. 2.2.4. Attendance at seminars and conferences Policy 12 – Attendance at Local Government Conferences outlines the conferences that the council routinely attends and specifies who may take part. Attendance of Councillors at these events will be authorized by the Council in accordance with the policy. Requests to attend seminars and conferences not specified in the aforementioned policy should generally be made in writing to the Council or the General Manager, outlining the benefits to the Council of attending the event. Approval for discretionary trips and attendance at conferences and the like should, where possible be approved by a full meeting of the Council. If this is not possible then the approval should be given jointly by the Mayor and the General Manager. If the Mayor requires approval to attend seminars or conferences outside of council meetings it should be given jointly by the Deputy Mayor and the General Manager. After returning from the conference, Councillors should provide a written report to the Council on the aspects of the conference relevant to council business and/or the local community. This can be done as part of the general business section of a meeting of the Council. Where attendance at a conference or seminar has been approved, the Council will cover the actual cost of registration fees including costs of related official lunches and dinners, and associated tours where they are relevant to the business and interests of the Council. The reasonable cost of transportation and accommodation associated with attendance at the


seminar or conference, and meals when they are not included in the registration fee, will also be met. 2.2.5. Training and educational expenses Berrigan Shire Council encourages its Councillors to undertake relevant training and skills development to ensure they carry out their functions as effectively as possible. Where possible, the General Manager will make Councillors aware of training and educational opportunities. Attendance at training activities will be by request to the Council or the General Manager who will determine the appropriateness of the request relative to the overall training requirements of all Councillors and budgetary constraints. Where the Council is paying these expenses it is essential that the training or educational course is directly related to the Councillor’s civic functions and responsibilities. 2.2.6. Attendance at dinners and other non-council functions Councillors attending dinners and other non-council functions are entitled to the reimbursement of their ticket or meal costs in accordance with this policy under the following circumstances: • The function is relevant to the council’s interests; or • The Councillor receives an official invitation to attend a function organized by a community or business group operating within Berrigan Shire; or • The event will provide Councillors with a briefing on issues facing the local community. The direct cost of attending such functions can be reimbursed as part of the Councillors normal monthly return. No payment will be reimbursed for any component of a ticket that is additional to the service cost of the function, such as a donation to a political party or candidate’s electoral fund, or some other private benefit. 2.2.7. Communication costs 2.2.7.1. Communication devices installed in Councillor’s homes The Council will provide each Councillor with a dedicated telephone/facsimile machine to use for official council business. The Council will meet all costs associated with the use of these machines to a maximum value of $100 per Councillor per month. This amount includes line rental, other service charges, the receipt and transmission of facsimiles where these are related to official council business, and making of telephone calls related to official council business. Where Councillors choose not to have a dedicated line provided, the Council will meet direct expenses associated with the use of telephone/facsimile services for official duties to a maximum of $85 per Councillor per month. 2.2.7.2. Communication expenses while travelling The Council will reimburse Councillors for all reasonable council business related communication costs incurred while traveling on council business.


Where possible, Councillors traveling outside of the Shire will be provided with a Council mobile telephone for use in an emergency or for council business. These phones should be pre-booked with the Council’s Finance Manager. If for some reason, the Finance Manager is unable to supply a Councillor with a council mobile phone for travel outside of the Shire, the Councillor may be authorized by the Finance Manager to use a personal mobile telephone for the duration of the trip. Only when a Councillor has received pre-authorisation to use a personal mobile phone, will the Councillor be eligible to claim a reimbursement for their business related call costs. In certain circumstances it may be appropriate for Councillors to use communication devices provided by accommodation providers. Councillors are however reminded that communication charges charged by accommodation providers are often inflated and should therefore be used only when absolutely necessary. The total of communication related expenses whilst traveling will be included in the Councillors $20 daily limit for incidentals. Should the Councillor anticipate that this limit will be exceeded, they should contact the General Manager to make alternative arrangements. The Council acknowledges that family responsibilities may sometimes impact on the Councillor’s ability to undertake their civic duties and therefore accepts that Councillors traveling away from home may need to maintain contact with family members while they are away. Where a Councillor incurs private call costs (including calls made on council provided mobile telephones) these should be limited to a maximum of 5 minutes and will be included in the maximum total for daily allowable incidental expenses. 2.2.7.3. Billing Anomalies Where anomalies in billing amounts become apparent, call costs may be audited and the Councillor asked to reconcile calls made with the account statement. 2.2.8. Care and other related expenses To allow Councillors to undertake their council business obligations, Councillors are able to claim for the reasonable cost of carer arrangements, including childcare expenses and the care of elderly, disabled and/or sick immediate family members. These provisions only apply to council endorsed meetings (including working parties and committee meetings) and cover the period commencing 45 minutes prior to the meeting start and ending one hour after the completion of the meeting to an upper limit of $15 an hour. All reimbursements are subject to the provision of an invoice and are on a per Councillor, not per care recipient, basis. Councillors with a disability or special access needs will be provided with additional support to allow them to perform their normal civic duties and


responsibilities. The level of support will be to a level comparable to that offered to staff members and reasonableness will be based on practicality and cost. 2.2.9. Insurance expenses and obligations Councillors will receive the benefit of insurance cover to the limit specified in the Council’s insurance policies for the following matters arising out of the performance of their civic duties and/or exercise of their council functions: 2.2.9.1. Public Liability – Professional Indemnity Public Liability and professional indemnity insurances apply in relation to claims arising out of the Councillor’s (alleged) negligent performance of civic duties or exercise of their functions as Councillors. 2.2.9.2. Councillors’ and Officers’ Liability This policy covers Councillors against claims made against them for any alleged wrongful acts in the course of their duties. Wrongful Act is taken to mean any act, error, mis-statement, misleading statement, misleading conduct, omission, neglect or breach of duty made, committed, attempted or allegedly made, committed or attempted by the insured person. 2.2.9.3. Personal Accident Councillors are covered, within specified limits, for any personal injury obtained while engaged in or on any activity related to their official council duties including travel to and from these activities. Full details of the insurance cover are available from the Council’s Insurance Officer. 2.2.9.4 Motor Vehicle Insurance Berrigan Shire Council has an insurance policy to cover loss or damage to council fleet vehicles. Councillors using these vehicles are covered by the policy. All insurances are to be subject to any limitations or conditions set out in the Council’s policy of insurance. 2.2.10. Legal expenses and obligations The Council will reimburse the reasonable legal expenses of: • A Councillor defending an action arising from the performance in good faith of a function under Section 731 of the Local Government Act 1993; or • A Councillor defending an action in defamation provided the statements complained of were made in good faith in the course of exercising a function under the Act; or • A Councillor for proceedings before the Local Government Pecuniary Interest and Disciplinary Tribunal or an investigative body provided the subject of the proceedings arises from the performance in good faith of a function under the Act and the Tribunal or investigative body makes a finding substantially favourable to the Councillor. The Council will not, under any circumstances, reimburse expenses in respect of legal proceedings initiated by the Mayor and/or Councillors.


2.3. ADDITIONAL MAYORAL EXPENSES 2.3.1. Communication costs – Mobile telephone The Council will provide the Mayor with a mobile telephone, of a type specified by the General Manager, and will meet all council business related costs associated with the use of such telephone to a maximum value of $200 per month. 3. PROVISION OF FACILITIES 3.1. GENERAL PROVISIONS 3.1.1. Provision of facilities generally Berrigan Shire Council will provide Councillors with facilities equipment and services so that they can undertake their role as elected members of the Council. Council facilities, equipment and services are not to be used to produce election material or for any other political purposes. Councillors should not generally obtain private benefit from the provision of equipment or facilities, nor from any travel bonus or other such loyalty scheme. 3.1.2. Private use of equipment and facilities It is acknowledged that incidental use of council equipment and facilities may occur from time to time. Such incidental private use is not subject to compensatory payment. Where more substantial private use occurs, Councillors will be expected to make a payment to cover the level of private use. This payment will be made on a full cost recovery basis and where appropriate charged in accordance with the Council’s adopted Annual Schedule of Fees and Charges (i.e. for photocopying, facsimile transmission etc.). 3.2. SPECIFIC FACILITIES FOR MAYORS AND COUNCILLORS 3.2.1. Office equipment & supplies The Council will provide each Councillor with a dedicated telephone/facsimile machine to use for official council business. The Council will also provide all connection costs to initially establish such machines at a Councillor’s residence or place of business. Costs associated with general maintenance of the equipment and consumables such as paper and ink will also be provided by the Council as required. Councillors will be provided with access to the photocopiers, facsimile machines, telephones and other relevant office equipment located at the council office in Berrigan for the purposes of official council business. Each Councillor will be provided with a diary of a type and standard prescribed by the General Manager. The standard will be equivalent to diaries supplied to council staff members.


3.2.2. Office space Councillors wishing to conduct formal meetings have access to meeting rooms at the Council office in Berrigan. These rooms must be booked through reception. 3.2.3. Secretarial support All Councillors will be provided with adequate secretarial support so that the Council’s official duties may be pursued in a professional manner. 3.2.4. Councillor name badges In accordance with the general policy of the Council (Policy 1 – Council Name Badges), all Councillors will be issued with a council name badge. Retiring Councillors will be permitted to retain their badges as a token of service to the Council. 3.2.5. Business cards All Councillors will be issued with business cards to use during the performance of their official duties. 3.2.6. Meals and refreshments Where Councillors attend meetings convened by the Council, minor refreshments may be provided in addition to any appropriate meals as determined by the General Manager. 3.2.7. Council vehicles Access to a suitable vehicle (if available) will be provided for use on official duties. Vehicles will be sourced from the council’s general fleet and bookings must be made in advance. 3.3. ADDITIONAL MAYORAL FACILITIES 3.3.1. Mayoral vehicle This section is to be read in conjunction with council’s general policy and in particular: • Policy 14 – Mayor’s Sedan • Policy 90 – Private Use of Council Vehicles The Mayor will be provided with a fully serviced and maintained executive standard council vehicle, including fuel card, for official duties and commuter use associated with such duties. The Mayor shall be provided with full private use of the vehicle upon payment of a weekly amount as determined from time to time by the council as part of its Annual Schedule of Fees and Charges. 3.3.2. Mobile telephone The Mayor will be provided with a mobile telephone of a type specified by the General Manager.


4. OTHER MATTERS 4.1. CESSATION OF DUTIES 4.1.1. Acquisition or return of facilities and equipment On the completion of their term of office, extended leave of absence or at the cessation of their civic duties, Councillors are required to return all equipment and facilities issued by the Council within 28 days. This includes facsimile machines provided to Councillors, unused consumables such as ink, paper etc., and the mayoral vehicle and mobile telephone. Dedicated phone lines provided by the Council for official purposes will be disconnected within 28 days of the cessation of duties. Under certain circumstances the Councillor may be given the option to purchase the equipment previously allocated to them at an agreed fair market price or written down value. 4.2. SUPERANNUATION 4.2.1. Councillor Contributions to Superannuation In accordance with the Australian Tax Office Interpretative Decision 2007/205, the Council may enter into an arrangement with a Councillor under which the Councillor agrees to forego all or part of their annual fee in exchange for the Council making contributions to a complying superannuation fund on their behalf. To establish this facility, a Councillor must submit a written request to the General Manager, using similar wording to that of a normal employee deduction request. The request can not be retrospective.

(Adopted 15/10/08)


Appendix 2 – Annual Financial Statements Under Section 428(2)(a) of the Local Government Act, 1993 the Council must include a copy of the Council’s Audited Financial Statements as part of its Annual Report. Berrigan Shire Council Financial Statements For the financial year ended 30 June 2009 General Purpose Financial Report Statement by Councillors and Management Primary Financial Statements Notes to the Financial Statements Independent Auditor’s Reports Special Purpose Financial Report Special Purpose Financial Reports Notes to the Special Purpose Reports Independent Auditor’s Reports Special Schedules