Second Quarter Corporate Report 2019 - gympie.qld.gov.au€¦ · completed in Q2: Barter Street – street renewal River to Rail Stage 3 been promoting beneficial soil microbes and

Second Quarter Corporate Report

2019

BQUARTERLY CORPORATE REPORT OCTOBER 2019

ContentsMessage from the Chief Executive Officer ...............................1

Infrastructure Services ......................................................................2

Corporate and Community Services ...........................................7

Planning and Development ........................................................ 14

People and Organisational Development ............................. 19

Operational Plan Report ............................................................... 20

Activities Update ............................................................................. 30

Top Capital Projects........................................................................ 88

Top Operational Projects .............................................................. 92

December 2019 Financial Report ............................................ 95

Works for Queensland – Round 2 ..........................................103

Works for Queensland – Round 3 ..........................................104

Waste Services Business Unit Quarterly Update ...............107

Water Business Unit Quarterly Update .................................111

1QUARTERLY CORPORATE REPORT OCTOBER 2019

Message from the Chief Executive OfficerThe second quarter of the financial year involved significant activity around identifying operational efficiencies and improving the future sustainability of Council. The less than desirable 2018/2019 financial result had a number of contributing factors relating to both expenditure and non-cash items.

Depreciation was a key component and much work is being undertaken around improving the way assets are recorded, valued and depreciated and ensuring changes flow through to the financial statements in a timely manner. Importantly, the second quarter review reveals a much stronger financial position going forward and further work in coming months will be aimed at strengthening our finances.

The end of the year saw a number of important staff activities including the final senior leader’s forum, my annual all-staff talks, and most importantly the staff service awards where staff were recognised for the years of service to the community.

It was pleasing to see the conclusion of the Pathways to Better Planning project. This project was a structured engagement project with the community and key stakeholders in order to identify how to interface better with the community regarding planning matters and how that can be improved. The process was underpinned by the principle that a solid well-structured process will always yield the right outcome, and the principle that there is always room for improvement.

With the looming election, a small group of staff have convened to begin planning the six month period after 28 March. This period involves the induction process, many briefings and workshops, and a compressed budget process for the elected members. It is vital that a program is mapped out well before election day.

Bernard Smith, CEO


Infrastructure ServicesInitiativesReview and rationalisation of stored materials and equipment

The Infrastructure Services Business Support function has a key objective to review and improve the efficiency of our operations.

A recent project was to look at stock, materials, plant and equipment stored at Council sites across the region.

While it was an excellent exercise to identify what we had at the various locations to support our operations, the review also identified hundreds of items which were not fit for Council use. This included items that didn’t meet current specifications, were damaged beyond repair, had reached the end of their useful life and the typical miscellaneous rubbish that someone thought was too good to throw away and “we’ll use that one day”.

These redundant items were transported to the Monkland quarry as a central location for auction to ensure there was a transparent process for the disposal of these Council assets.

Tidy Towns Awards

Gympie won four awards in the 2019 Queensland Sustainable Communities – Tidy Towns Awards.

These awards included the overall winner, the Dame Phyllis Frost Litter Prevention award which recognises innovation and achievements in litter prevention and litter management, the Resource Recovery and Waste Management Award which recognises innovation and achievements in reducing and managing materials, and received a highly commended for Environmental Communication and Engagement which recognises outstanding achievements in raising awareness in environmental sustainability.

Gympie Regional Council submitted the application on behalf of the region and were in attendance to receive the awards.

Gympie will now represent Queensland in the National Awards to be held in Alice Springs in April 2020.


Emerging Risks and ChallengesBushfires

Bushfires were our most significant challenge in the second quarter, as many fires were burning across our region, with some requiring external fire fighting resources and aerial water bombing support. The major of these included Teewah National Park on the coast, Upper Kandanga in the Mary Valley and Blacksnake/Upper Thornside in our west.

Over this period, Council was called on to provide physical support which was predominantly in the form of water tankers to supply water to the fire crews at the fire ground as well as filling firefighting aircraft at Kybong Airport.

The Local Disaster Management Group raised its status to Alert twice in the quarter to respond to the multiple fires and the extended severe fire conditions. Council staff were also deployed to QFES Incident Control Centres to ensure a coordinated and rapid response.

The Upper Thornside event required the evacuation of 10 properties and Council’s recovery staff managed the communication and care for these people.

The rapid and professional response from the Rural Fire Volunteers, Urban brigades and the QPS has been outstanding, and the learnings from the Woolooga fires of 2018 were evident in the excellent communications between agencies.

Get Ready Day

Council held its annual Get Ready Day in October to help communities prepare for various disaster events and the upcoming storm and fire season

The event at Bunnings Gympie included displays of vehicles and equipment by Fire and Rescue, Rural Fire, SES, Police and Ambulance with information displays and Emergency Services staff available to talk.

Community engagement

The best disaster management tool for the community is preparedness, which builds resilience and reduces reliance on others.

This quarter saw the communities of Kandanga and Rainbow Beach arranging their own disaster management awareness evenings and requesting presentations from Council and QFES officers.

These evenings were well attended with presenters providing information and community members asking questions, and we were all able to gain a better understanding of issues where gaps existed.

Disaster relief and recovery funding arrangements workshop

Each year, disaster funding arrangements change and become more onerous. Much more detailed pre-disaster asset condition information is required, the claim process is more complex and recovery actions can be ineligible if not presented correctly or tight timeframes missed, with potentially hundreds of thousands of dollars at risk.

To ensure Council is well placed to maximise the recovery of costs, several Infrastructure Services staff attended a Disaster Relief and Recovery Funding Arrangements Workshop hosted by the Queensland Reconstruction Authority. The workshop provided stakeholders with an opportunity to understand the latest changes to Commonwealth Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements (DRFA) and the State funded State Disaster Relief Arrangements (SDRA).


Staff safety

Keeping our staff safe is our primary responsibility as an employer. Council staff carry out what is classified as ‘high risk construction work’, this includes all activities on or near roadways, which essentially is most of the tasks carried out by our outdoor staff.

Safe work method statement information session

150 Infrastructure Services staff gathered at the Civic Centre for an information session on Safe Work Method Statements (SWMS). SWMS must be completed for any high risk construction work that is conducted within Council workplaces.

As the number and type of hazards that our staff face change over time, it is important for staff to remain informed about these risks and how they are identified in SWMS.

Quarterly highlights


The following Construction projects were completed in Q2:

■ Barter Street – street renewal

■ River to Rail Stage 3

■ Scottish Mine No.1

■ Vanguard Court – drainage extension

■ Tin Can Bay Esplanade – pathway

■ Power Road – pathway

■ Bishop Building

■ Eucalyptus Avenue – stormwater

■ Laurel Road – gravel upgrade

■ Noosa Road – bitumen seal

■ Feros Road – bitumen seal

Power Road – Pathway

Noosa Road Feros Road

Memorial Park gardens have gone GREEN

Parks staff have been taking a natural and holistic approach to horticultural management of the flowering gardens at Memorial Park. They have been promoting beneficial soil microbes and microfauna to encourage biodiversity and encourage biological management techniques in the gardens. The results speak for themselves.

One Mile Sports Ground

On 15 December, the Hon Sterling Hinchliffe, Minister for Local Government, officially opened the facility and also tossed the coin for the first cricket match to be played on the new field.

This new facility will allow year round cricket and facilitate Gympie Cricket’s relocation from Albert Park. It includes two grass wickets, two playing fields increased to 60m radius, new lighting and also included change rooms/amenity building.


Loggerhead Turtles visit Rainbow Beach

On 12 December, a Loggerhead Turtle nested and laid more than 150 eggs in the middle of one of the beach access areas. Staff and Coastcare are monitoring the eggs which are due to hatch between 14 and 22 February.

Scottish Mine

Works included weed tree removal, access track upgrading and fencing of the grounds. A new path was constructed into the relics area with improved access to the Retort House and perimeter fencing of the relics area. A new concrete driveway has also been constructed from the road edge to the property boundary as part of improved access to relics area.


Corporate and Community ServicesFinance and Risk and Technology and Business Systems

Council’s Finance and Risk team, in collaboration with the Technology and Business Systems team, has delivered a new general ledger structure, together with the introduction of job costing and a new financial reporting system, resulting in more timely and accurate financial statements and job cost reporting.

Council’s Strategic Risk Register has now been finalised and reviewed by the Executive Team and the Audit and Risk Management Committee. Work to finalise individual Directorate’s Operational Risk Registers continues. Branch Managers have been interviewed to identify and assess the risks associated with their respective business area. Data has been consolidated and conveyed to each Director for review and feedback. During November/December, online risk management training was rolled out for senior staff across the organisation. The insurance claim management function for Council has been resourced and preparations are underway for Council’s 2020/2021 insurance renewal requirements.

Council’s technology infrastructure has progressively been upgraded over the past months, resulting in a faster and more secure network, improving Council’s security posture, and includes redundant links ensuring business continuity in the event of an outage at any of Council’s key administrative sites.

All public computers in libraries across the region have been replaced with new computers, and all computers throughout Council upgraded with the latest Windows 10 patch, mitigating cyber security threats.

Gympie Regional Libraries

The Mayor opened Gympie Library’s new Makerspace on Wednesday 20 October with the space already popular with library clients. The dedicated Makerspace room at the Mellor Street library provides the community with access to virtual reality hardware and software, 3D printers, state of the art sewing machines and other technological developments which are driving employment opportunities and enhancing leisure time around the globe.

The Makerspace is currently open to the public on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturday mornings. Library staff are scheduled to the space to help clients with any of the technologies available in the room. During other times the Makerspace is booked for specific library events and programs such as ‘Green Screen’ and ‘3D printing’ lessons. These sessions are advertised in the library brochure and can be booked on line through the library website. Craft groups, coding and robotics and tech savvy seniors classes are also being held in the Makerspace room, which provides a larger, more comfortable space.

Building of the Makerspace was via Works for Queensland funding with all the equipment in the space provided through a Queensland Gambling and Community Benefit Fund grant secured by the Friends of Gympie Regional Libraries.


Gympie Regional Libraries has been active in supporting the region’s writers and poets throughout the past quarter. The Gympie Region Literary Awards were held on the weekend of 25-26 October, with well-attended workshops by acclaimed authors Pat Flynn, Eileen Herbert-Goodall, and Kylie Chan. Local authors Laurie Pointing and Elizabeth Rimmington also spoke to enthusiastic audiences about their new publications, while Gympie Library’s regular Writing Friday workshop sessions, held on the second and fourth Fridays of the month, are proving increasingly popular with the local writing community.

Gympie Regional Libraries has separated the adult fiction collection into ‘genres’ as part of its aim to improve access to the library’s physical collection. Similar to a book shop layout, the collection is now displayed in six areas including Romance, SciFi and Fantasy, Mystery and Thriller, Western, Christian and General Fiction. Each book has been labelled so borrowers can easily browse their favourite genre and items are efficiently returned to the shelves by staff. This ‘book shop’ style layout has been successful at other libraries and proven to be a hit with library borrowers here.

The Early Years Learning and Engagement team has been exploring new ways of reaching new library members and boosting use of their collections. In the last quarter, the team has trialled “soft partnering” with three kindergartens in the community to encourage the families to register their children at the library. So far the library has achieved a spike in memberships not only from 0-5 year olds but also their older siblings and parents.

Through this venture the library has been able to increase the use of the library print collection by joining community First Five Forever Storytime sessions with borrowing opportunities at the kindergartens. The aim for the remainder of the fiscal year is to encourage additional kindergartens to participate in this venture. These partnerships have also assisted in the promotion and registration of many new members to the 1,000 Books Before School program.

Early Years Forum

The fourth annual Gympie Region Early Years Forum was held in October with the theme of “Into the Wild”. The event saw 60 participants from 38 local organisations and service providers come together to focus on the development of children between the ages of 0-5. The purpose of the forum was to inform and inspire service providers to encourage active play in the natural environment. Participants were also encouraged to connect with colleagues in the early years sector in order to improve practice.

Ageing Consultations

“Plan for our ageing community” was identified as a strategy in council’s 2017 – 2022 Corporate Plan, with the related action being “prepare an ageing strategy”. Council delivered five preliminary consultation sessions with seniors’ groups across the region, from Cooloola Coast to Goomeri. Approximately 125 seniors participated in the consultations, providing valuable information on what is positive and challenging for older residents in the region, as well as their hopes for the future of the Gympie region. A report was presented to Councillors in November with the findings from the consultations. These initial consultation sessions will form the direction taken by council to plan for our ageing community.


Community Halls Forum

Two Community Halls Forums were held in October and November; one in Wolvi and the other in Kilkivan. The Forums were attended by representatives of 13 community halls. The committees were invited to discuss the upcoming allocation of funding through the Works for Queensland program, environmental health issues and the sharing of ideas and networking to support each other to activate these iconic community spaces.

Butchulla Land & Sea Native Title Claim Determination

On Friday 13 December, a temporary court house was set up at Urangan to finalise and formally endorse the Consent Determination for the Butchulla Land & Sea Native Title Claim.

The proceedings commenced at 10am with a Smoking Ceremony and Welcome to Country and included a Corroboree and formal speeches from a number of representatives.

Council officers will now commence working with the newly established Prescribed Body Corporate (BPC) to provide a collaborative approach to Native Title and Cultural Heritage requirements.

242 Mary Street new Technology and Business Systems (TBS) office accommodation

The basement area of 242 Mary Street was successfully converted to a light, open and creative environment to house TBS. The remodelling of this space provides more functional desk space and collaborative areas in the form of meeting rooms and break out spaces. The scope of the project included the demolition of the existing walls, installation of larger windows to provide additional light, new carpet, kitchenette, installation of air conditioners, replacing the external awning to the walkway and internal painting with accent walls.

Kilkivan Equestrian Centre

The Hon Stirling Hinchcliffe, Minister for Local Government, Racing and Multicultural Affairs together with Mayor Curran, Crs Smerdon, Hartwig and Dodt attended the official opening of the indoor equestrian arena on 14 December 2019.

The opening was celebrated with an officially sanctioned barrel race enjoyed by a strong crowd of spectators. The arena was designed to provide a premier experience for both competitors and spectators and it lived up to that expectation. The surface provided a premium running experience for horses and the ability to watch the activities out of the harsh sun was welcomed by all.

The project was jointly funded by Local Government Grants and Subsidies Program (LGGSP) and Gympie Regional Council. The official naming of the indoor arena building as the “Vern Berry Building” followed with the sign being unveiled by Mr Berry’s widow. There has been strong interest and enquiry regarding use of the arena by individual users and horsing groups.


Visitor Information Centre (VIC) Planning

Construction of the Bruce Highway’s new service centre, Traveston Roadhouse, commenced in December. Council officers met with developers to consider space within the roadhouse for a southern Gympie Region Visitor Information Centre (VIC).

While the space is smaller than Gympie Central VIC, it is in a prime location with anticipated foot traffic into the roadhouse in excess of 1,000 per week.

A draft fit out plan is being developed for presentation to developers early in the third quarter.

A Visitor Centre Strategy for the Gympie region is also under development.

Timeline:

■ Building Construction: Commences February 2020

■ Fit Out: August/September 2020

■ Roadhouse Open: October 2020

Gympie Region Economic Development and Investment Strategy

In December, Gympie Region’s Economic Development and Investment Strategy (EDIS) was endorsed by Council to go out for public consultation. The document was sent to all Chambers of Commerce throughout the Gympie region for comment and distribution to members as well as to many of the region’s most prominent businesses including – Laminex, Corbet’s Group, Nolan Meats, HQ Plantation, Nestle, Cavalier Engineering, Polleys Coaches and Agsolutions. The document was also shared with and received feedback from, state and federal economic agencies.

Council Officers engaged the wider community through an online survey (Your Say) backed up by social media and held community forums in the following parts of the region:

■ Gympie City and Surrounds x 2 sessions

■ Mary Valley

■ Rainbow Beach

■ Tin Can Bay

■ Goomeri

■ Kilkivan.

A final draft EDIS (incorporating relevant feedback) will be presented to Council for adoption in the third quarter.


Brand and marketing

The region’s Brand Style Guide was officially delivered in December. The new regional brand was softly launched to the community in Council’s December edition of The Round Up and officers have subsequently taken opportunities to overlay the new brand across a variety of existing collateral, including the region’s online Travel Planner.

Advertising opportunities

Council launched its brand advertising with a half page feature in the Gympie Times’ “Food Bowl” supplement and hopes to undertake again as part of GourMay 2020.

A series of Christmas advertisements were featured in the Gympie Times and Sunshine Coast Daily Weekend editions and the Noosa News in three consecutive weeks; total cumulative readership figures for these publications equates to around 350,000 readers.

In support of the Campervan and Motorhome Club of Australia (CMCA) Convention coming to Gympie Region in August 2020, new look advertising consistent with the new brand now features in the CMCA Directory and in an online banner. The CMCA has 66,000 members.

Local independent publication “Gympie Living” (monthly circulation 8,500) will feature the new brand with a half page advertisement aligned to tourism editorial.

In collaboration with the Gympie Times, officers took an opportunity to influence the look and feel of the front cover of 2020 edition of Welcome to Gympie Handout which now incorporates elements of the regional brand.

This publication is circulated to around 12,000 and is commonly used by local realtors to provide generic information on the region to interested consumers, including new and potential new residents. In the third quarter, further work on a new website for Gympie Futures (Destination Marketing and Economic Development) will continue together with the production of a suite of marketing assets that can be used by the community to promote the region. As the toolkit becomes available a regional roadshow will be planned with the objective of encouraging the wider region to work with council to bring the “Your Welcome” message to life.


Gold Rush Festival 2019

The new format Gold Rush Festival took place from Friday 18 October to Sunday 20 October. The event featured a twilight lantern parade held in Mary street, a community carnival day at Lake Alford and a picnic day across the region.

Under the tutelage of a professional lantern maker, five large-scale 19th century machinery style lanterns were created by local high school students for the twilight parade, intended to pay homage to some of the machinery used in gold mining since 1867. These were complemented by hundreds of small, LED-lit machinery props, such as cogs and wheels, made and paraded by local primary school students.

The community carnival day at Lake Alford was delivered in partnership with the Gold Mining and Historical Museum and included a program of entertainment, activities, food and free entry to the museum. The outdoor component of was abandoned late afternoon due to inclement weather, but feedback was still very positive. The museum reported a strong attendance and have agreed to begin discussions about 2020.

Sunday’s event encouraged participation and picnics in the regions parks. A themed resource “Picnic Pack”, a how to guide to host the perfect picnic in Gympie region was created and made available for download on Councils website. The guide covered everything from the history of picnics to picnic locations, styles, and essentials.

Gympie Regional Gallery Shop Reopening

Gympie Regional Gallery’s refurbished shop was reopened to the public on Saturday 23 November, coinciding with the launch of two spectacular exhibitions.

Funded through the Queensland Government’s Works for Queensland program, the shop is a high quality commercial space supporting exhibitions in the gallery and a range of local and regional artists from across Queensland.

Through a curated selection of exceptional work, the Gallery shop will support up to 50 professional artists and artisans, providing income and extending their profiles.

The opening event was well attended and included the team at local tradespeople involved in construction, artists with products stocked in the shop, Councillors, the Mayor, Gallery volunteers and visitors to the Gallery.


Arts and Cultural Development

The second Arts and Culture Forum was hosted at the Gympie Civic Centre in partnership with South East Queensland Regional Arts Services Network provider, Creative Arts Alliance. Approximately 45 arts practitioners, cultural workers and arts collective representatives attended the forum which offered participants a practical and insightful approach to developing and growing an arts based business.

Creative Arts Alliance facilitated a session on knowing your market and invited Brisbane arts collective Artisan to share ideas and knowledge on visual merchandising. A special presentation from the Fraser Coast Art Gallery and Academy highlighted the power of a community working together to unite and drive change for a greater outcome.

Local artist, Amica Whincop, shared her story of building a successful business and how she became a featured artist on “The Block” television series; and local digital marketing experts Tenacious Digital presented a Toolbox Takeaway session with tips and tricks on how to engage with audiences through social media.

The Arts and Culture Forum is also an opportunity for participants to network with other artists and groups from the region’s creative sector to share knowledge and form future collaborations.

CMCA Rally 2020

The Campervan and Motorhome Club of Australia (CMCA) have officially announced their annual National Rally will be hosted in Gympie in 2020. Council representatives attended the rally in Elmore Victoria in October 2019 to formally welcome CMCA members to Gympie Showgrounds from 27 September to 4 October 2020.

CMCA is Australia’s largest RV club with more than 40,000 members and their annual rally attracts more than 850 RVs with approximately 1800 people. The rally includes eight days of workshops, events, excursions and entertainment providing a fantastic opportunity for local businesses, community groups and more to get involved and show off our region.


Planning and DevelopmentQuarterly highlightsThe second quarter was a rewarding and successful period for the directorate with a number of significant projects coming to fruition and being opened for community use and enjoyment.

Planning Strategy and Major Projects

Two major projects were successfully completed and opened to the community:

■ Gympie Youth Precinct. The official opening ceremony was held on Sunday 17 November with skateboarding, scooter and BMX demonstrations and live music being part of the event. The popularity of the facility was such that the official opening was preceded by public use of the facility as soon as the construction fencing was removed. It was clear on the opening day that the facility caters to all ages and abilities and provides a valuable addition to the range of facilities that make the Gympie region so attractive.

Disappointingly, more recently the facility has been the target of vandalism by a small number of individuals. Discussions are presently underway to consider options to address this unfortunate anti-social behaviour.

The skate facility met both budget and timeline objectives and the decision to ensure the facility met the highest skate standards has already been validated on the basis that in late January the facility hosted both the 2020 Australian Skateboarding League Queensland National Street Qualifier and the Skate Australia National Park Championship. The latter was an internationally sanctioned event endorsed as one of only a handful of competitions internationally for athletes to attract Olympic World Skateboarding Rankings (qualifying points) in the lead up for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.

■ Albert Park Storage Facility. With the completion of this necessary storage facility to replace existing degraded buildings, tenants including Gympie Athletics Club, Albert Bowls Club, Gympie Rugby League and Gympie Rugby Union have now either moved in, or begun their relocation process.

The facility was also visited by the Minister for Local Government, Stirling Hinchcliffe who undertook a walk-through of the newly completed multi-tenant storage facility as part of a trip to the region associated with the State’s Works for Queensland funded projects.


Council also received state level external recognition for two projects planned and managed by the Planning Strategy and Major Projects branch:

■ Mary Valley Rail Trail. In October, Council was formally recognised for its contribution to outdoor spaces with the Mary Valley Rail Trail winning the QORF Government Achievement Award. The trail, which officially opened in July, was the result of significant consultation in the area and ensured that the disused rail corridor connecting the townships of Imbil and Brooloo was repurposed into a valuable recreational facility for locals and visitors alike.

The Queensland Outdoor Recreation Federation (QORF) is the peak body for the outdoors and outdoor activities in Queensland. The Outdoor Queensland Awards celebrate individuals, organisations, programs, events and activities that have been successful in significantly improving outcomes for participants, clients and communities.

The award was one of nine categories of awards offered by QORF with this category recognising “the achievements of local or state government departments and/or agencies that have produced positive outcomes for the outdoor sector”.

■ Memorial Park Conservation Management Plan. Council received a High Commendation for the Conservation Management Plan (CMP) for Memorial Park at the National Trust of Australia (Queensland) Heritage Awards.

The awards seek to showcase the entrants and promote best practice, encourage innovation and collaboration, and celebrate the diversity of heritage places in Queensland.

The award also reinforces the important role a Conservation Management Plan plays in actively guiding work in the park now and into the future, so that Memorial Park continues to be a fantastic space for the community to use.


Environmental Health and Regulatory Services

■ Food Business licensing and approval renewals 2019-2020. Council’s Environmental Health branch finalised the annual renewal process for the region’s food businesses during the second quarter. Applications for renewal are required to be lodged prior to 30 September each year. Council always endeavours to work proactively with businesses to ensure they are operating in accordance with their responsibilities. A new approach was trialled as part of the 2019 process to follow up outstanding renewals. As an intervention prior to any formal follow-up visit to those businesses, reminder emails and SMS were sent at set times during the renewal period. This resulted in a much smoother process and more timely response rate. A total of 321 food business licenses were issued with only 30 follow-up phone calls being required.

■ Rangers on bicycles initiative. The Regulatory Services team commenced a new initiative following the purchase of two mountain bikes for use by Council Rangers. Having the Rangers undertake patrols on bicycles is aimed at making the Ranger team accessible and improving their connection with the community to encourage responsible pet management. Rangers will be on the lookout for and be ready to provide advice in relation to unregistered dogs, people not cleaning up after their dogs, and dogs that are off leash in areas where they are required to be on a lead.

Environmental Planning

■ Environmental Round Table 2019. Council’s adopted 2019-2020 Operational Plan includes an action that requires Environmental Planning to engage and meet with community Natural Resource Management (NRM) groups during the year.

In response to this action, the Environment Round Table 2019 was organised by the Environmental Planning Team to celebrate the range of environmental achievements funded by Council’s Environment Levy. Held on 19 November at Gympie Civic Centre, Council officers and members of local NRM groups joined together for three hours to share achievements, stories, challenges and afternoon tea.

It was an extremely successful event, providing the opportunity to celebrate the great work undertaken by environmental groups across the region as well as officers from across the organisation in support of Council’s adopted Environment Strategy.

Participants delivered presentations highlighting what is being achieved with funding from Council’s Environment Levy (many of the projects being actions identified in Council’s Environment Strategy).

The Environmental Round Table highlights the significance of Council’s Environment Levy in providing funds that assisting in conserving and enhancing the region’s natural environment, while also providing some of the building blocks to support Council’s tourism and economic development objectives.


■ Land for Wildlife Launch and open day. The Land for Wildlife program in the Gympie Regional Council area was officially re-launched on Saturday 7 December. Over 50 people attended the relaunch which included a river walk and practical advice for participants from MRCCC and Council officers. As part of the day, potential new members indicated their interest in the program when signing the attendance record and a total of 23 expressions of interest were received by Environmental Planning in the first two weeks following Council’s public announcement.

Emerging Risks and ChallengesResources

Pleasingly during the quarter, a number of outstanding vacancies with the Lands Protection Branch were successfully recruited with new team members commencing in both strategic and operational positions. These successful appointments will enable the branch to continue to meet Council’s core and project work, Council’s legal obligations and the community’s expectations, in terms of invasive species management in the region.

Better Pathways to Planning

Commencing and continuing the implementation of short term actions included in Council’s response to the recommendations of the Better Pathways to Planning consultant’s report will be a focus of the next quarter. The team is committed to delivering an enhanced service to customers and stakeholders. In particular, the branch is looking forward to being able to implement the outcomes of proposed technology and process improvements. These enhancements will enable less manual processes and therefore easier public access to information as well as more efficient outcomes for customers.


2019-2020 1 2

Reconfiguring A Lot 15 15

Material Change of Use 14 12

Operational Work 7 11

BWAAPS 1 0

Plumbing - Residential 89 102

Plumbing - Commercial 15 16

Concurrence 40 51

Building - GRC 94 117

Building - PC 888 428

Total 1163 752

2019-2020 Minus Re-roof 1 2

Reconfiguring A Lot 15 15

Material Change of Use 14 12

Operational Work 7 11

BWAAPS 1 0

Plumbing - Residential 89 102

Plumbing - Commercial 15 16

Concurrence 40 51

Building - GRC 94 117

Building - PC 194 163

Total 469 487

Second Quarter Stats 2019/2020 Second Quarter Stats 2019/2020 (minus re-roofs)


People and Organisational DevelopmentWellbeing and safety

Monthly Actions

The wellbeing and safety team track actions within a register. These action can arise from incidents and/or near misses and assist the organisation to continually improve the way we do business.

Organisational Development

The Organisational Development team provides support for all staff across the organisation and have recently been working on increasing awareness and confidence in the development of Performance Development Conversations.

These conversations are important for all staff to participate with their manager in developing the key goals for the next 12 months and identify any learning and development opportunities that support successful outcomes.

This is a key area that will be worked on continually to ensure that staff are able to have the conversation, plan for their future and receive the appropriate support to achieve and positively contribute to the organisational goals.

HR Operations

Business partnering with the Directorates is the fundamental approach the HR Operations team undertake. Understanding the people statistics assist with the partnering, and a key statistic that is monitored is overtime. Not only can this be costly to an organisation, it is also a lead indicator for understanding the team/directorate health and resource requirements.

Overtime is necessary in some areas of the organisation given the types of services we deliver to our community.

However if it becomes excessive it can have multiple implications; such as, wellbeing, safety, health, fatigue, relationship breakdowns (both personally and professionally),costly and increased staff turnover all of which need to be balanced in a healthy manner.

This is just one metric that the HR Operations staff work with to assist in balancing and managing our very important workforce.

HR Operations team (from left): Pip Moir, Rowena Chapman, Kymbeline Russel, Karney Olsen and Ros McVicar


Operational Plan ReportIntroductionIn accordance with the requirements of section 174(3) the Local Government Regulation 2012, this report outlines Council’s progress towards the implementation of the 2018-2019 Operational Plan.

The operational plan is built around a framework of five core strategic themes as identified in the Corporate Plan 2017-2022. Those strategic themes are:

■ Our Infrastructure

■ Our Community

■ Our Economy

■ Our Environment

■ Our Organisation.

The Corporate Plan 2017-2022 identifies a range of strategies, actions and performance measures that Council has committed to across the five-year period to help achieve its vision. The Operational Plan 2019-2020 lists 151 specific operational activities which Council plans to complete during the financial year. All of these activities are tied directly back to the strategic actions from the corporate plan.

This performance report provides a progress update on the delivery of the operational activities as at the end of the second quarter (October - December 2019).

The report incorporates an analysis of information obtained through the collection of activity status indicator data for each of the activities identified in the Operational Plan 2019-2020.

Each activity has been assessed and given a status indicator. These ‘traffic light’ status indicators are explained in the table below.

Completed Activity completed.

On Track Activity progressing well with all indications that completion will be achieved by the nominated target quarter.

Delayed/Revised

Activity is significantly behind schedule or it has been identified that the activity will need to be revised. This may be the result of a change in council policy or priorities, revised budget allocation (or loss of planned funding) resulting in a necessary shift in targets for the activity.

To be Commenced

Activity has been scheduled to commence at a later date.

A graphical summary of the current status of operational plan activities, grouped as per the strategic themes and objectives from the Corporate Plan 2017-2022, is presented below.

An Activities Update Report containing more comprehensive details of the progression of each of the 151 individual activities identified in the Operational Plan 2019-2020 is also provided as an additional attachment in the quarterly update report to Council.

Commentary in support of the identified activity status has been included for every activity listed in the Activities Update Report.


SummaryThe graphs below display the progress of operational plan activities by strategic theme. The vertical axis indicates the number of activities/ projects.

As at 31 December 2019, 15 per cent of operational plan activities were categorised as being ‘completed’. Fifty one per cent of activities were categorised as being ‘on track’ for completion by the nominated target quarter. Twelve percent of activities were categorised as being ‘delayed/revised’ due to the various factors recorded in the commentary associated with each activity listed in the Activities Update Report. The remaining 22 per cent of activities are yet ‘to be commenced’ due to the activities having been scheduled for commencement in a later quarter, or as otherwise noted within the commentary for the identified activities.

No significant impacts have been identified by activities with a ‘delayed/revised’ or yet ‘to be commenced’ status as at the end of the first quarter.

The data demonstrates that Council is largely on track to meet its various performance targets as identified within the Operational Plan 2019-2020.

Our Infrastructure accounts for approximately 12 per cent of activities/projects.

Our Community accounts for approximately 28 per cent of activities/projects.

Our Economy accounts for approximately 23 per cent of activities/projects.

Our Environment accounts for approximately 13 per cent of activities/projects.

Our Organisation accounts for approximately 24 per cent of activities/projects.


Our InfrastructureThe progression of the Our Infrastructure theme is based on the following actions and activity status updates.

Subject to available resources, maintain existing infrastructure services at current service levels.

Strongly advocate the State and Federal Governments, as appropriate, for: Coondoo Creek Bridge, Wide Bay Highway/Bruce Highway intersection, upgrading Gympie Connection Road to cater for current growth and the future bypass, Normanby Bridge pedestrian/bicycle access.

Subject to available resources, increase support for maintenance of rural gravel roads.

Investigate potential rationalisation of Council property.

Progress implementation of the Gympie Town Centre Transit Facility.

Strongly advocate for a coastal road.


Our CommunityThe progression of the Our Community theme is based on the following actions and activity status updates.

Subject to available resources, maintain existing community services at current service levels.

Ongoing development and implementation of a Community Recreational and Sporting Facility Strategy, and the implementation of the Arts and Cultural Plan and the Open Space and Recreation Plan.

Continue to plan for a new library.

Review heritage provisions in the planning scheme.

Prepare an ageing strategy, and work with key stakeholders to enable the implementation of the National Disability Insurance Scheme.

Progress investigations into an Equestrian Centre at Kilkivan.


Collaborate with community and government stakeholders to deliver improved outcomes for children and young people.


Our EconomyThe progression of the Our Economy theme is based on the following actions and activity status updates.

Subject to available resources, maintain existing economic development services at current service levels.

Work with community, government and private sector stakeholders to optimise the economic and social benefits of the National Disability Insurance Scheme roll out.

Deliver and implement the Gympie Regional Economic Development Strategy 2019-2024.

Further develop the Kilkivan to Kingaroy Rail Trail.

Develop and implement an RV Strategy and Management Plan for the region.

Implement the Airport Masterplan.


Our EnvironmentThe progression of the Our Environment theme is based on the following actions and activity status updates.

Subject to available resources, maintain existing environment services at current service levels.

Commence implementation of revised environment strategy.

Finalise development and commence implementation of the Energy Management Plan for Council facilities.

Investigate waste management options.

Complete review of environmental provisions including buffer zones in the planning scheme.

Develop and adopt a Biosecurity Plan.


Continue implementation of Stages 2-4 of the River to Rail Masterplan.


Our OrganisationThe progression of the Our Organisation theme is based on the following actions and activity status updates.

Subject to available resources, maintain existing organisation services at current service levels.

Deliver a Gympie Regional Council Community Satisfaction Survey rating against both comparable provincial councils and the state average, as measured in the biennial market facts survey. This survey is run in conjunction with the LGAQ state-wide survey.

Investigate an increased focus on user pays for Council services and facilities.

Undertake organisational wide improvement projects (Activ8) which provide excellence in service to our community.

Undertake regular staff satisfaction surveys.

Encourage skills development through traineeships, cadetships and apprenticeships and other training initiatives.


Strategy – Pursue funding opportunities and deliver the strategic plan for Tin Can Bay Jetty.

Strategy – Deliver infrastructure to facilitate economic development and enhanced liveability.


Activities UpdateKey Strategic Theme: Our Infrastructure

Strategy Activity Purpose Performance Measures Planned Completion

Responsibility Second Quarter Update

Comments


Replace the existing tanker fill station at Madill Park with a credit card operated facility to allow wider access and easier administration.

To provide a credit card operated tanker fill station at Madill Park that is available to all residents and reduces water loss.

Installation of a new tanker fill facility at Madill Park.

Q2 Office of the CEO - Water Business Unit

Delayed/ Revised

This will not be undertaken until Q4 due to extremely high demand for water at present. The present facility can't be taken off line.


Replace the existing reservoir roof at Imbil.

To install a new reservoir roof to maintain the integrity of the drinking water and prevent recontamination.

Installation of a new roof on the Imbil reservoir.


On Track Tenders have closed. Recommendation to be provided to January Council meeting regarding awarding of contract.


Replace the existing reservoir roof at Kandanga.

To install a new reservoir roof to maintain the integrity of the drinking water and prevent recontamination.

Installation of a new roof on the Kandanga reservoir.


On Track Tenders have closed. Recommendation to be provided to January Council meeting regarding awarding of contract.


Install a new standby generator at Gympie Sewage Treatment Plant.

To replace existing unserviceable equipment.

Installation of a new generator at the Gympie Sewage Treatment Plant.


Delayed/ Revised

The installation of the generator has been deleted from the approved capital projects list.


Key Strategic Theme: Our Infrastructure



Comments


Install process instrumentation at sewage treatment plants.

To provide better process monitoring and process control, allowing automated and remote operation, as well as early warning signs of process issues.

Installation of instrumentation at sewage treatment plants and integration with existing control systems.


On Track Installation and commissioning of instrumentation is nearing completion.


Install process instrumentation at water treatment plants.

To provide better process monitoring and process control, allowing automated and remote operation, as well as early warning signs of process issues.

Installation of instrumentation at water treatment plants and integration with existing control systems.


On Track Installation and commissioning of instrumentation is nearing completion.


Develop a Strategic Asset Management Plan (SAMP).

The SAMP is the framework required to achieve the asset management objectives, align delivered services with organisations objectives and is used to develop detailed asset management plans.

SAMP endorsed by Council’s Executive Team.

Q2 Infrastructure Services

On Track SAMP development is significantly advanced and intended to be completed in Q3.





Comments


Conduct a comprehensive review of the transport and stormwater asset management plan.

The transport and stormwater asset management plan details the asset level operational activities, resources and timescales required to achieve the organisation’s asset management objectives in terms of delivery of transport and stormwater services.

Transport and stormwater asset management plan endorsed by Council’s Executive Team.


On Track Transport and stormwater Asset Management Plan development is progressing as planned.


Develop a parks five year capital program

A five year parks capital program based on the open space plan, the Local Government Infrastructure Program and asset management, will assist in the development of a design program and with budget preparation.

Draft completed in preparation for the 2020/2021 budget.


On Track Review of Open Space Plan capital projects completed. Review of renewal projects underway.


Develop a parks asset management plan.

To define the service levels and asset management objectives for the range of park’s assets.

Park’s asset management plan endorsed by Council’s Executive Team.


On Track Park Asset Management Plan development has commenced.





Comments

Strongly advocate the State and Federal Governments, as appropriate, for:

• Coondoo Creek Bridge;

• Wide Bay Highway/Bruce Highway intersection;

• Upgrading Gympie Connection Road to cater for current growth and the future bypass;

• Normanby Bridge Pedestrian/Bicycle access.

Conduct regular meetings with the Department of Transport and Main Roads to advocate for:

• Coondoo Creek Bridge;

• Wide Bay Highway/Bruce Highway intersection;

• Upgrading Gympie Connection Road to cater for current growth and the future bypass;

• Normanby Bridge Pedestrian/Bicycle access;

• Upgrade of the Mary Valley Road.

To effectively communicate the importance of these projects for the region and understand the status of these projects in State programs.

Minimum of two meetings held annually with senior Department of Transport and Main Roads officers.


On Track Meeting with Department of Transport and Main Roads representatives held on 29 November.


Complete the rural roads review.

The review will engage with Councillors and the community on the condition and maintenance service levels for rural roads to establish an agreed outcome to enable the development of a Rural Road Maintenance Plan.

Rural roads review completed and report presented to Council.


On Track Rural Road Maintenance Review complete with final report to be presented to Council in January 2020.





Comments


Complete the rural roads review.

The review will engage with Councillors and the community on the condition and maintenance service levels for rural roads to establish an agreed outcome to enable the development of a Rural Road Maintenance Plan.

Rural Road Maintenance Plan adopted by Council.


On Track Rural Road Maintenance Review complete with final report to be presented to Council in January 2020.

Investigate potential rationalisation of Council property.

Implementation of Strategic Land use Audit.

Properties identified for disposal.

Identify and recommend to Council properties for disposal.

Q2 Corporate and Community Services

On Track Organisation wide management input to be received by end of January 2020 to allow report to Executive and presentation to new Council.





Comments


Progress pre-detailed design for the Gympie Town Centre Transit Facility (part of the endorsed Nelson Reserve/ Memorial Park Master Plan) for the site bounded by Jaycee Way, River Road and Monkland Streets and develop detailed design.

To continue to deliver the Gympie Town Centre Revitalisation Strategy to enhance economic development, visitor attraction, accessibility and opportunities to increase the welcoming character of the Town Centre.

Draft pre-detailed design developed for engagement with key stakeholders.

Q2 Planning and Development

Delayed/ Revised

Not yet commenced due to funding application being unsuccessful. Future funding opportunities will be explored.




Pre-detailed design finalised following engagement with key stakeholders.


To be commenced






Comments




Detailed design developed in readiness for construction of stage 1 of the facility (subject to successful funding bid as opportunities arise).


To be commenced


Strongly advocate for a coastal road.

Advocate for the Kin Kin Road Noonan Range Construction.

Construction of the unsealed section of Kin Kin Road across the Noonan Range will improve safety and complete a sealed route between Tewantin Road and Tin Can Bay Roads.

Include as agenda item in meetings with Department of Transport and Main Roads.


On Track Meeting with Department of Transport and Main Roads representatives held on 29 November.


Key Strategic Theme: Our Community



Comments

Subject to available resources, maintain existing Community Services at current service levels.

Manage water supplies according to Drinking Water Quality Management Plan.

To ensure safe drinking water for the community.

>98 per cent compliance with microbiological targets.


On Track 100 per cent compliance achieved to date.


Develop Festivals and Events Strategy.

Research and understand the impact of events and plan for future growth in Gympie region and become recognised as a leading regional events destination.

Draft Festivals and Events Plan presented to Council for endorsement.


On Track Review to commence early 2020.


Upgrade of Gympie Civic Centre (Stage one).

Improve audience and hirer experiences by upgrading the functionality and technical capacity of the centre.

Upgrade project scope of works developed.


Completed Project Manager now recruited in the Facilities Team. Project scope for works finalised.




Contractors engaged and upgrade plans finalised.


Delayed/ Revised

Tender process for contractors will commence early 2020 beginning with Venue Improvement Plan and Design. Expected to be complete by Q4.





Comments




Civic Centre technical upgrade commenced.


To be commenced

Technical upgrade will commence after design is complete. Project to be delivered within Works for Queensland Program guidelines and timeframes. Expected completion Q3 2021.




Civic Centre technical upgrade completed.


To be commenced

Technical upgrade will be completed within the Works for Queensland guidelines and timeframes. Expected completion Q4 2021.


Plan and deliver annual program of performances at Gympie Civic Centre.

Develop audiences and increase visitation to the centre.

Minimum 10 productions staged on as an annual program.


Completed An additional 300 people attended four (4) events that were presented at the Civic Centre by Council in Q2.


Construction of new shop at Gympie Regional Gallery.

Extend visitor experience at the Gallery and generate new revenue for artists.

Gallery shop construction is completed and trading recommences.


Completed The refurbished Gallery Shop was completed and officially opened on 23 November.





Comments


Public art policy and guidelines developed.

Develop a framework to guide Council’s role in and support for public art in the region.

Public Art Policy and Guidelines drafted and presented to Council for endorsement.


Delayed/ Revised

Development of the Public Art Policy has been delayed. Expected to be drafted and presented to Council in Q4.


Engage and develop a strong local creative network through the Arts and Culture Forum and associated sector gatherings.

Develop the capacity of local artists and groups and improve communication between Council and the creative sector.

Two forums delivered annually accompanied by further four gatherings or networking events.


On Track The second Arts and Cultural Forum is planned for 29 February 2020 at Gympie Civic Centre.


Partner with community groups to deliver Movies in the Park.

Foster cohesive and engaged communities, while activating parks and community halls.

Expressions of Interest sought from not for profit groups in various communities to hosting film evenings.


Completed Completed in Q1.


Partner with community groups to deliver Movies in the Park.

Foster cohesive and engaged communities, while activating parks and community halls.

Twelve movies screened across the region in collaboration with not for profit community groups.


On Track Four movies screened across the region with over 200 people in attendance.





Comments


Review the Gympie Region Walk and Cycle Strategy 2012 to identify a strategic vision for walking and cycling and associated on-road/street infrastructure requirements.

Provide clear direction on the future walk and cycle needs to develop more sustainable and liveable communities, which are supportive of, and encourage active transport choices and inform future infrastructure and capital works plans.

Provide clear direction on the future walk and cycle needs to develop more sustainable and liveable communities, which are supportive of, and encourage active transport choices.

Commence review of Walk and Cycle Strategy and prepare draft strategy for community engagement.


Delayed/ Revised

Project planning underway and brief being developed. Community engagement strategy to be finalised for implementation in Q4.





Comments


Review the Gympie Region Walk and Cycle Strategy to identify a strategic vision for walking and cycling and associated on-road/street infrastructure requirements.



Undertake community engagement on the draft Walk and Cycle Strategy.


Delayed/ Revised

Community engagement phase to be undertaken in Q4.





Comments


Review the Gympie Region Walk and Cycle Strategy to identify a strategic vision for walking and cycling and associated on-road/street infrastructure requirements.



Finalise Walk and Cycle Strategy review having regard to the outputs of community engagement and seek Council endorsement.


To be commenced

Schedule to commence during Q4.


Finalise procurement process for the appointment of a suitable local medical provider to oversee and administer Council’s childhood immunisation program.

To ensure that a formal arrangement is in place with a suitable local medical provider to provide childhood immunisations in accordance with the National Immunisation Program.

Service level agreement finalised with a suitable local medical provider for the provision of childhood immunisation services.


On Track Meeting with Senior Contracts Officer arranged to ensure correct procurement process is adopted and compliance with the Local Government Act is achieved.





Comments


Review and revise Arts and Cultural Plan 2015-2025.

Ensure the current Arts and Cultural Plan continues to deliver quality outcomes for the creative sector and the community.

Consultation with stakeholders and the public delivered and report presented to Council.


Delayed/ Revised

First consultation planned to coincide with Arts and Cultural Forum on 29 February 2020.




Revised Arts and Cultural Plan drafted and public invited to comment.


On Track Consultant will be engaged in Q3 to draft the revised Arts and Cultural Plan and invite public comment.




Final draft of Arts and Cultural Plan presented to Council for endorsement.


On Track Final draft still expected to be presented to Council in Q4.





Comments


Deliver Family Fun Days. Activate Council Parks and Open Spaces to encourage social connection and community pride.

Three Family Fun Days delivered in different locations with 80 per cent satisfaction rate of participants.


On Track The next Family Fun Day is scheduled for 2020 Easter school holidays.


Continue to develop Council’s first Reconciliation Action Plan.

Build effective relationships with traditional owner groups and members of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community.

Reconciliation Action Plan presented to Reconciliation Australia and Council for adoption.


On Track Meeting is being planned for February 2020 with the three traditional owner groups in the Gympie Local Government Area (LGA). The agenda will include discussion on First Nations priorities and whether the groups wish to prioritise Indigenous Land Use Agreements (ILUAs) being executed and implemented instead of/or before a Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) is developed.





Comments


Deliver community training for volunteer based community organisations.

Increase the community capacity of sporting, recreation and community groups so they are better placed to serve their members and communities.

Three free training sessions provided with 80 per cent satisfaction rate of participants.


On Track Planning for the next community training session is underway.


Upgrade Memorial Park Playground.

The existing playground has reached the end of its useful life and a new playground will address the needs of users into the future.

Memorial Park Playground constructed.


On Track Project has been scoped, and quotes sought. Delivery is planned for May 2020.


Engage with users of Council parks and open spaces.

To gain an understanding of user’s needs and expectations to assist in the planning, maintenance and levels of service for Council’s parks and open spaces.

Undertake an on-site park user survey at three locations in the region.


To be commenced

Planned to commence in Q3.





Comments


Finalise overall pre-detailed design for Albert Park and One Mile Sports Precincts to progress strategic level master plans in readiness for future priority implementation activities.

To undertake progressive improvements to both regional level sports facilities to enhance use, active lifestyles and support liveability in accordance with the strategic direction set out in the endorsed Open Space and Recreation Plan 2016.

Pre-detailed design commenced and input sought from key stakeholders at each facility.


Delayed/ Revised

Finalisation of current improvements to Albert Park and One Mile Sports Precinct under Works for Queensland Program has taken precedence. Once complete, project planning and project brief will be prepared in Q3.




Overall draft pre-detailed design finalised for final key stakeholder review.


To be commenced

Scheduled to commence in Q3.





Comments




Finalise pre-detailed design having regard to the outputs of the key stakeholder review in readiness for construction of the next round of implementation priorities (subject to successful funding bid as opportunities arise).


To be commenced

Scheduled to commence in Q4 subject to a successful funding application.


Develop a Dog Off-leash Strategy to meet community and visitor needs across the region and establish design and citing principles.

To develop the strategic guidance for sports and recreation facilities to enhance use, active lifestyles and support liveability in accordance with the strategic direction set out in the endorsed Open Space and Recreation Plan 2016.

Commence development of draft Dog Off-leash Strategy seeking preliminary community input.


On Track Project planning underway and brief being developed. Commenced in Q2 (as per Q1 update). Preliminary community input to occur during Q3.





Comments




Finalise draft Dog Off-leash Strategy with design guidance incorporated for community engagement.


To be commenced

To commence in Q3 (as per Q1 update)




Develop final Dog Off-lease Strategy having regard to the outputs of community engagement for Council endorsement.


Delayed/ Revised

To commence in Q4.





Comments




Prepare relevant amendments to Council’s Local Laws to reflect changes and additions to off-leash location, for later formal engagement and adoption in 2020-2021.


To be commenced



Construction of a Makerspace at Gympie Library.

Create a space for collaboration, idea creation and problem solving.

Makerspace constructed. Q2 Corporate and Community Services

Completed Makerspace officially opened on Wednesday 20 November.


Plan and Implement programming for the Makerspace.

Provide the community with access to emerging technologies.

Weekly program of Makerspace events offered to the community.


Completed Makerspace programming started in November with ongoing reviews to ensure community needs are met.


Expand the Libraries early years literacy initiatives.

Increase reach to under fives throughout the community.

Partner with Playgroups Queensland to offer Early Years Programming at Curra.


Completed Completed Q1.





Comments


Reconfigure physical library collection.

Improve access to library collections.

Increase library collection usage.


On Track Collection recategorisation on track - completed at Gympie Library. All branches to be completed Q3.


Promote life-long learning through workshops, programs and events.

Collaborate with the community to offer recreational, informational, educational opportunities to meet their needs.

Maintain quarterly library program for workshops, programs and events.


On Track Library workshops, programs and events brochure for Q2 finalised and distributed.


Upgrade Library Management System to enhance access for library users.

Facilitate easier access to library catalogue and services for the community.

Library moves to Spydus 10.2.


Completed Completed Q1.

Review heritage provisions in the planning scheme.

Review heritage provisions in the Planning Scheme.

To ensure the Planning Scheme delivers on the Council’s strategic vision for the region, responds to community needs and supports good development outcomes.

Commence preparation of a heritage conservation background study to inform a review of the Planning Scheme policy framework and development provisions for character areas/ streetscapes, and local and state heritage listed sites.


To be commenced

Scheduled to commence in Q4 in accordance with findings of Local Heritage Register review.





Comments

Prepare an ageing strategy, and work with key stakeholders to enable the implementation of the National Disability Insurance Scheme.

Scope the ageing strategy.

Outline the key strengths, challenges, needs and issues to be addressed in Council’s proposed Ageing Strategy.

Scoping paper presented to Council.


Completed A Consultation Report (summary of findings) was provided to Councillors on 13 November.

Progress investigations into an Equestrian Centre at Kilkivan

Official opening of Equestrian Centre at Kilkivan.

Raise awareness that the equestrian centre is open for business.

Establish regular use of the facility.


On Track Equestrian centre officially opened. Fees and charges have been set with waiver of same until 1 July 2020.

Collaborate with community and government stakeholders to deliver improved outcomes for children and young people

Deliver an Early Years Forum.

Connect and inspire organisations, schools, parents, practitioners and funding bodies to take collaborative action to improve outcomes for children in the region.

Forum delivered with 80 per cent satisfaction rate and 35 local organisations or representatives participating.


Completed The forum was successfully hosted with attendance of 60 people representing 38 organisations. Feedback was excellent achieving an 85 per cent satisfaction rate.

Collaborate with community and government stakeholders to deliver improved outcomes for children and young people

Partner with the University of Sunshine Coast to deliver the Discover Youth and Careers Symposium.

Inspire young people to pursue higher education, training and employment within the region.

Participation by 75 per cent of local high schools.


On Track Council is working closely with the University of the Sunshine Coast (USC) to plan for the event on 27 May 2020. The event format and industry areas are currently being developed.


Key Strategic Theme: Our EconomyStrategy Activity Purpose Performance Measures Planned

CompletionResponsibility Second

Quarter Update

Comments


Following extensive Community Engagement finalise and present the Gympie Region Economic Development and Investment Strategy for endorsement by Council.

To seek Council’s endorsement of the Gympie Region Economic Development and Investment Strategy.

Undertake community engagement with key business and industry stakeholders and all Chambers of Commerce.

Strategy endorsed by Council.


Delayed/ Revised

Council endorsed the Economic Development and Investment Strategy (EDIS) to go out for Public Consultation during December. Consultation Forums undertaken in Gympie City (x 2), Rainbow Beach, Tin Can Bay, Mary Valley, Kilkivan and Goomeri.


Implement the Gympie Region Economic Development and Investment Strategy.

To contribute to the region’s future economic prosperity and relevance through implementing the Gympie Region Economic Development Plan.

Two adopted recommendations, including the Regional Investment Prospectus and Toolkit implemented.


On Track Investment Prospectus currently being scoped. Industrial land surveys and pitching for new business (both regional priorities) are under way.


Develop a Regional Investment Prospectus and Toolkit.

To be proactive in securing new ‘job creating’ investment in to the region.

Provide instruction on how to utilise the Regional Investment Toolkit to key stakeholders outlined in the strategy (e.g. Chambers of Commerce, Real Estate Agencies and Small to Medium Enterprises).


On Track New brand softly launched to the region's Chambers of Commerce and leading business people (alongside Community). Further engagements on how to use brand toolkit to be undertaken in Q3 and Q4. Initial feedback has been positive.




Quarter Update

Comments


Implementation of Gympie Region Tourism Strategy.

To encourage more domestic and international visitors to stay overnight in the Gympie region and turn day trippers into overnight visitors and increase overnight stays.

To optimise visitor spend while in the region and encourage repeat visitation and dispersal.

Memorandum of Understanding with Regional Tourism Office developed.


Completed Tourism Strategy endorsed by Council in Q2. Key actions are being progressed. Memorandum of Understanding with Regional Tourism Office on hold until new financial year.





One meeting per quarter with tourism operators to track progress.


On Track Next quarterly meeting with Tourism Industry planned for end Q3 to enable industry to concentrate on peak season business commitments. Current financial commitment to Visit Sunshine Coast under review subject to implementation of key priorities outlined in Tourism Strategy.




Quarter Update

Comments







On Track Procurement of quarterly tourism research/researcher to be undertaken in Q3. Quotes to be invited.







On Track Procurement of quarterly tourism research to be undertaken in Q3.




Quarter Update

Comments





Two adopted priorities are implemented, including the Mary Valley Rattler Education Program.


On Track Initial meetings with Mary Valley Rattler and Gympie Gold Mine Museum commenced and early concepts discussed along with recruitment of a teacher (with knowledge of school curriculum) to rewrite education component. Further meetings with Tourism and Events Qld Education team and Education Queensland planned. Targeted pitching to bus companies in Brisbane to be undertaken once product more refined.


Creation of the visual marketing components to support implementation of the Gympie Brand Story.

Promote and market the Gympie region as the natural choice to live, work and play.

Creation of tool kits, videography and photography, prospectus and digital delivery.

Q4 Office of the CEO - Marketing and Communications

On Track Soft launch via Round Up and press advertisements. Tool kit data collected for design and release in Q3.




Quarter Update

Comments


Implementation of the Gympie Brand Story.

To provide a ‘one voice’ approach to marketing the region as the natural choice to live, work and play.

Embed regional narrative within Council.

Commence embedding with business community and in schools.


On Track Style Guide completed. Toolkit templates under construction. Awaiting confirmation on agreed website platform. Initial embedding ideas (aligned with ACTIV8) initiated with People and Organisational Development (POD).


Build and maintain strong, effective stakeholder networks.

To promote inclusive business partnerships through joint forums and workshops.

Positive stakeholder feedback (360 degree review).


On Track Ongoing forums and workshops underway - including Chamber of Commerce Meetings, Development Meetings, Workshops and trade missions.


Implement the high priority action items from the Developer Contributions Audit.

To improve the efficiency and accuracy with which infrastructure charges are levied, collected and expended.

All high priority action items implemented.


On Track Outstanding developer contributions progressively being followed up. Consultant to be engaged to assist with establishing the state required contributions register. Populating the register will necessitate action by all network owners.




Quarter Update

Comments


Implement enhanced process/procedure recommendations from the Planning/Economic Development Learning and Development Project.

To creative a supportive team approach to development and improve the customer’s experience associated with the development process.

All process/procedure recommendations implemented.


On Track Action Plan finalised and available on Council's website. Short term actions either underway or to commence in Q3 for completion in Q4 dependent upon necessary resources.


Undertake progressive amendments to improve the operation of the planning scheme.

To ensure the planning scheme delivers on the Council’s strategic vision for the region, responds to community needs and supports good development outcomes.

Draft Amendment Package 3 is finalised and statutory State Government interest check process complete.


To be commenced

To be commenced in Q3 (as per Q1 update).




Public notification of draft Amendment Package 3 is completed and final State interest check commenced.


To be commenced

Public notification to occur in Q3 subject to receiving State Government responses.




Amendment Package 3 endorsed by Minister and adopted by Council as part of the planning scheme.


To be commenced





Quarter Update

Comments




Complete the Gympie Gateway Employment Hub planning study (including Kybong Industry Investigation Zone) in line with State funding to inform a future strategic direction and background for necessary planning scheme amendments and further investigations (where required).


Delayed/ Revised

Further investigation into flood data required as part of sieve analysis of developable areas. Key stakeholder and community engagement to commence in Q4.


Progress implementation of the Tracks and Trails Plan guided by identified priority projects to deliver a network of quality land-based trails across the region.

Deliver a network of walking, cycling, horse riding trails to enhance recreational opportunities and associated economic development outcomes from increased visitation.

River to Rail Stage 3 complete (subject to successful grant funding opportunities) to finalise the connection through One Mile Sports Precinct to the Aquatic Recreation Centre and on to the Mary Valley Rattler Station.


On Track River to Rail Trail Stage 3 is 95 per cent complete and already operational. Mary Valley Rail Trail Stage 1 complete and successfully in operation, scoping for a Stage 2 also complete.




Quarter Update

Comments


Progress implementation of the Canoe and Kayak Strategy guided by identified priority projects to deliver a network of quality water-based trails across the region.

Deliver a network of canoe and kayak trails and launch points and associated infrastructure to enhance recreational opportunities and associated economic development from increased visitation.

Detailed concepts developed for the next round of launch points in liaison with key stakeholders.


To be commenced



Progress implementation of the Canoe and Kayak Strategy guided by identified priority projects to deliver a network of quality water-based trails across the region.

Deliver a network of canoe and kayak trails and launch points and associated infrastructure to enhance recreational opportunities and associated economic development from increased visitation.

Pre-detailed designs developed for the next round of launch points (subject to successful grant funding opportunities).


To be commenced

Scheduled to commence in Q4 subject to external funding.


Continue implementation of concept master plan priorities under the Our Towns Sustainable Centres Program.

To deliver the enhanced and ongoing economic sustainability of regional townships by reinforcing retail centres, increasing amenity and enhancing sense of place and township identity with public realm improvements.

Develop pre-detailed design for the first round implementation activity in Imbil (subject to successful grant funding opportunities).


On Track Pre-detailed design commenced in liaison with Department of Transport and Main Roads given focus area is a State controlled road. Crossing options currently being investigated.




Quarter Update

Comments




Commence development of detailed design for the first round implementation activity in Imbil (subject to successful grant funding opportunities).


To be commenced


Subject to available resources, maintain existing economic development services at current service levels



Finalise detailed concept design for the first round implementation activity in Rainbow Beach to complement underground power and new street lights (subject to successful grant funding opportunities).


Completed Detailed concept design developed. Design themes to undergo community engagement in Q3. Underground power and new street lights to be finalised prior to Easter School Holidays.




Quarter Update

Comments




Develop pre-detailed design for the first round implementation activity in Rainbow Beach to complement underground power and new street lights (subject to successful grant funding opportunities).


To be commenced



Develop a policy and guideline for roadside and footpath trading.

To provide guidance to businesses on the use of public roads and footpaths, recognising mutual benefits to retailers and the community.

Prepare draft policy and guideline for Council and stakeholder input.


Completed Draft Policy reviewed and revised for Councillor consideration.


Develop a policy and guideline for roadside and footpath trading.

To provide guidance to businesses on the use of public roads and footpaths, recognising mutual benefits to retailers and the community.

Complete final draft policy and guidelines for public exhibition and Council adoption.


On Track Draft Policy reviewed and revised for Councillor consideration prior to public exhibition in Q3-Q4.




Quarter Update

Comments

Work with community, government and private sector stakeholders to optimise the economic and social benefits of the National Disability Insurance Scheme roll-out.

Deliver a NDIS Business Forum.

To increase awareness of the business opportunities available under the NDIS.

Fifty businesses attend NDIS Business Forum.


To be commenced

Considered more appropriate for a National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) organisation to deliver this activity. Workshop scheduled for early Q3 (late January).


Implement the Gympie Region Economic Development and Investment Strategy.

Contribute to economic and social prosperity.

Council endorsement of the strategy.


Delayed/ Revised

Community engagement period completed. Draft strategy to be presented to Council at its meeting in February 2020 for in principle endorsement.


Develop a regional investment prospectus and toolkit.

Contribute to economic and social prosperity.

Investment prospectus and toolkit developed.


On Track Initial scoping of investment prospectus under way with a view to finalising the document and toolkit over Q3 and Q4.




Quarter Update

Comments


Implement improvements to trail surface, rest spots and Wide Bay Creek crossing.


Implementation of improvements to trail surface and rest spots (subject to successful grant funding opportunities).


On Track Wide Bay Creek Crossing analysis complete. W4Q funding granted for 2019-2021 to deliver on priority implementation activities. Q4 implementation subject to necessary State Government approvals.




Development approval granted by the State Government to meet purple-coded waterway requirements for Wide Bay Creek upgrades.


Delayed/ Revised

Wide Bay Creek Crossing analysis complete. W4Q funding granted for 2019-2021 to deliver on priority implementation activities. Q4 implementation subject to necessary State Government approvals. Awaiting these approvals.




Implementation of Wide Bay Creek crossing upgrades.


On Track On track for implementation in Q4 subject to required State Government approvals.




Quarter Update

Comments

Develop and implement an RV Strategy and Management Plan for the region.

Progressively implement priority actions from the RV Strategy and Action Plan for the region.

To develop a network of supporting infrastructure and stop-over locations to attract and capture (multi-day stays) RV travellers and support economic development opportunities resulting from increased visitation.

Implementation of high priority actions in accordance with identified priority (subject to successful grant funding opportunities).


To be commenced

Scheduled to commence implementation in Q4. Investigations to determine regional priorities for implementation underway.

Implement the Airport Masterplan.

Finalise the development of an aerodrome strategy and management model.

Provide clear direction for the future management and operations of the Gympie Regional Aerodrome.

Management and operational model endorsed by Council.


On Track Proposal to go before Council in Q3 for appointment of Aerodrome Supervisor to assist in delivering the objectives.


Key Strategic Theme: Our EnvironmentStrategy Activity Purpose Performance Measures Planned


Quarter Update

Comments

Subject to available resources, maintain existing environment services at current service levels.

Manage sewage treatment plants within requirements of Environmental Authority (EA).

Ensure sustainable operation of sewage treatment plants.

>80 per cent compliance with EA parameters.


On Track Compliance presently running at <80 per cent. Licence parameters are being reviewed and an application to amend the environmental authority is being prepared.


Continue to implement the Environment Grants Program.

To provide 20 per cent of the total environment levy for Environment Grants Program for projects with an environmental benefit.

Funds provided to local natural resource management community groups.


Completed First milestone payment provided to natural resource management groups. Progress reporting due in February 2020 along with second payment.


Prepare and implement an environmental offsets policy and procedure for Council operations.

To offset unavoidable vegetation clearing during Council works.

Draft policy and procedure developed.


On Track Draft policy and procedure currently being prepared. Internal consultation will commence in during Q3.




Draft policy and procedure adopted.


To be commenced

Scheduled to be commenced in Q3.




Policy and procedure implementation commenced.


To be commenced

Scheduled to be commenced in Q4.




Quarter Update

Comments


Land for wildlife program reinvigorated in the Gympie region.

To provide support to current Land for Wildlife members to encourage environmental conservation across the region.

Land for Wildlife data base created. A minimum of 10 new members signed up to the Land for Wildlife program.


On Track Land for Wildlife program reinstated in the Gympie region. Working on the data base with the Land for Wildlife Regional Coordinator. Twenty-five enquiries from interested landholders to date to join the program.


Continue preparing property management plans for environmentally significant land parcels within Council’s ownership.

Property management plans created for environmentally significant land parcels (owned or managed by Council) to enable sustainable management and maintenance of Council’s significant natural assets.

Property management and maintenance commenced for properties that had property management plans created in the 2018-2019 financial year.

Ten new property management plans prepared. Management and maintenance commenced for a minimum of five properties as identified via the Environmental Land Management Plan.


On Track Site inspections commenced and edits currently being made to the property management plan template. Environmental Land Management Plan framework almost complete.




Quarter Update

Comments


Finalise a Corporate Sustainability Strategy.

The Corporate Sustainability Strategy will:

• Identify opportunities for greater energy, water and waste efficiencies;

• Embrace innovation and invention in day to day operations;

• Work towards best practice sustainability outcomes; and

• Demonstrate corporate environmental leadership.

Draft plan prepared for stakeholder and Councillor review.


Completed Strategy replaced by Sustainability Policy. Draft policy presented and workshopped with Councillors. Final policy recommended for adoption at Council's February meeting.


Finalise a Corporate Sustainability Strategy.

Prepare and commence implementation of a Corporate Sustainability Strategy to guide organisational policy and projects to enable Council to become more environmentally, financially and socially sustainable

Corporate Sustainability Strategy adopted and initial priority actions commenced.


To be commenced





Quarter Update

Comments


Prepare an organisational wide Energy Management Plan.

Deliver environmental and financial benefits based on enhanced energy management of Council infrastructure.

Draft plan prepared for stakeholder and Councillor review.


On Track Draft plan revised for Councillor consideration in early Q3.


Prepare an organisational wide Energy Management Plan.

Deliver environmental and financial benefits based on enhanced energy management of Council infrastructure.

Energy Management Plan adopted.


To be commenced



Reduce energy consumption at Gympie STP and major sewerage pump stations.

Reduce energy costs through implementation of suitable technology and introduction of better operating practices.

Ten per cent reduction in energy costs at top five sites — 5 per cent within first year, 10 per cent within three years.


On Track Business analyst currently working with Coordinator Sustainability to verify power costs and identify opportunities.


Develop the regional transfer station.

To enable the management of the region’s waste once the Bonnick Road landfill has closed.

Construction contract awarded.


On Track Road construction programmed to start March 2020.




Quarter Update

Comments


Collaborate with the Wide Bay Burnett Regional Organisation of Councils (WBBROC) to develop long term waste disposal options including alternative waste technologies.

To identify the options available for the future disposal of the region’s waste.

Waste to energy feasibility study commissioned by WBBROC.


Completed Draft report presented to officers and final report will be delivered in February.


Procure a short term waste disposal arrangement with a facility external to the region.

To secure a waste disposal location to for the region’s waste once the Bonnick Road landfill has closed.

Outcomes of waste disposal expression of interest reported to Council.


Delayed/ Revised

Estimated operating life of Bonnick Road landfill has been extended as a result of operational efficiencies. Procurement of short term waste disposal is not required immediately and procurement of alternative disposal has been deferred to next financial year. Expression of Interest information is no longer valid and will need to be readvertised next financial year.




Quarter Update

Comments


To adopt and commence amendments to environmental provisions in the planning scheme to deliver Council’s strategic vision for the region, respond to community needs and support good development and environmental outcomes.

To establish a planning scheme framework that delivers development outcomes which protect priority species, maintain ecological connectivity and conserve significant habitat areas.

Public notification of draft Amendment Package 3 is completed and final state interest check commenced.


To be commenced

To be commenced in Q4 (as per Q1 update).


To adopt and commence amendments to environmental provisions in the planning scheme to deliver Council’s strategic vision for the region, respond to community needs and support good development outcomes.

To establish a planning scheme framework that delivers development outcomes which protect priority species, maintain ecological connectivity and conserve significant habitat areas.

Amendment Package 3 endorsed by Minister and adopted by Council as part of the Planning Scheme.


To be commenced





Quarter Update

Comments


Implement Lands Protection Action Plan which establishes annual priorities regarding invasive species management and related budget expenditure, in accordance with the adopted Biosecurity Plan.

To ensure that the objectives of the Biosecurity Plan are fulfilled and that annual priorities and expenditure are transparent and reflect the priorities of the Plan.

Action plan activities completed in accordance with set completion dates.

Q1 and ongoing

Planning and Development

On Track Some objectives from the Action plan have been commenced and are on schedule - 1. Regular internal stakeholder meetings are underway (Land Protection & Environmental Planning), 2. A register recording compliance training for Lands Protection staff has been created.

Some Biosecurity Plan actions have been delayed - 1. An appropriate tool for scheduling Customer Requests Management tasks is being sought - SmartSheets may fit this need and is currently being trialled. 2. The reviewed Giant Rats Tail policy has been taken to the Weed and Pest Advisory Committee (4 Dec 2019) and is ready to be taken to Council for resolution. 3. The Gympie Region Biosecurity Plan 2018-2022 is in place. A review of the Plan is still underway. The completion date has been deferred to mid 2020.




Quarter Update

Comments


Establish and promote access points for the community to obtain pest information. Information sources include Gympie Regional Council webpage, Gympie Regional Council Biosecurity Plan, and links to pest fact sheets, and information on best practice pest management and weed hygiene.

To ensure the broader community has access to information relating to invasive species that impact the Gympie region, and to guide land users in sustainable land management.

Invasive species information available from all access points.


On Track The Gympie Regional Council webpage containing Lands Protection information continues to be updated as new projects are implemented. Lands Protection has undertaken 10 community extension events for the 2019 calendar year, well above the proposed attendance at five events. Land protection invasive species data has been shared with the Wide Bay Burnett Regional Organisation of Councils to aid in invasive strategic planning across the seven Councils. Four media releases have been undertaken to increase community awareness of key issues around invasive species management. Targeted mail outs have been completed for two high priority species.




Quarter Update

Comments

Continue implementation of Stages 2-4 of the River to Rail Masterplan.

Progress implementation of the Tracks and Trails Plan guided by identified priority projects to deliver a network of quality land-based trails across the region.


River to Rail Stage 3 complete (subject to successful grant funding opportunities) to finalise the connection through One Mile Sports Precinct to the Aquatic Recreation Centre and on to the Mary Valley Rattler Station.


On Track River to Rail Trail Stage 3 is 95 per cent complete and already operational. A 150m long off-street connection through "The Willows Park" and pedestrian refuge at Cogan Street is not yet completed.


Key Strategic Theme: Our OrganisationStrategy Activity Purpose Performance Measures Planned


Quarter Update

Comments


Using performance development conversations procedure to positively shape corporate culture.

Promote performance development conversations through education sessions.

Number of education sessions by September 2019 (10 sessions).

Q2 Office of the CEO - People and Organisational Development

Completed Sixteen sessions completed. Anticipated there will be more before the end of the financial year. Item completed.


Position description (PD)review project across the whole organisation.

Develop and implement a project plan for addressing revising the PD template and information required.

Project plan developed and implemented.


On Track Initial discussions commenced and project assigned to Senior Human Resource Advisor.


Maintain a secure and supported technology environment.

Undertake vulnerability assessment to assess vulnerabilities in Council’s technology infrastructure.

Vulnerability assessment completed.


On Track Request for quote to be issued Q3.



Upgrade of Council’s server and SAN infrastructure.

Council’s servers and SANs upgraded.


On Track Deferred, and replaced with prioritised information security and business continuity projects. These are on track, to be completed Q4.



Upgrade of Authority to latest supported version.

Council’s enterprise business system upgraded to the latest version.


To be commenced

Scheduled for commencement Q3.




Quarter Update

Comments


Implement technology that enables officers to work from anywhere.

Enable a flexible workforce.

Selection of an anywhere worker solution.


To be commenced

To be commenced in Q3 as per Q1 update – deferred due to prioritisation of information and security and business continuity projects.


Implement technology that enables officers to work from anywhere.

Enable a flexible workforce.

Implementation of an anywhere worker solution.


To be commenced

To be commenced upon completion of the selection of an anywhere worker solution.


Develop Records Management Program of Work.

Increase compliance with the Public Records Act 2002, ensuring documents and records (digital and hard copy) are captured, accessible and retailed in accordance with legislative requirements.

Records Management Program of Work endorsed.


On Track Program of Work commenced. Revised completion Q3 as per Q1 update.




Quarter Update

Comments


Develop Records Management Program of Work.

Increase compliance with the Public Records Act 2002, ensuring documents and records (digital and hard copy) are captured, accessible and retailed in accordance with legislative requirements.

Implementation of initiatives commenced in accordance with endorsed Program of Work.


To be commenced

To be commenced upon completion of the endorsement of the Program of Work.


Implementation of a software solution to assist with managing Council events.

Improved efficiencies in relation to venue management and client services, resulting in new revenue streams through ticketing and operational efficiencies with venue hire.

Completed implementation of venue and ticketing management software.


Completed Implementation of venue management and ticking software completed. Venue Management to be continued to be rolled out across Council.


Establish panel of providers for arboricultural services.

Ensure the availability of specialist arboricultural contractors which can consistently meet the quality and safety performance measures required to manage Council’s tree resources.

Panel of providers contract for arboricultural services awarded.


On Track Contract specification prepared, tender advertised, submissions evaluated. Report to be presented to Council in January.




Quarter Update

Comments


Undertake a review of statutory processes currently utilised for compliance with environmental health matters when legislative breaches are detected.

Modernise enforcement processes when environmental health related offences are detected.

Implementation of mobile enforcement solution for environmental health activities relating to statutory compliance.


On Track Contact has been made with other Councils to obtain offence codes for infringement notice offences. Once these codes have been finalised, the offence codes will be forwarded to the State Penalties Enforcement Registry for registration.


Undertake a review of the use of contractors for the provision of various regulatory service functions including regulated parking duties, coastal camping patrols and after-hours animal collections and formalise arrangements with contractors through a procurement process.

Define service levels required to be performed by contractors for current operations and determine whether efficiencies or service level improvements can be achieved by having certain functions performed in-house.

Finalise procurement process for appointment of contractor to perform regulatory service functions where it is not economically viable for such services to be provided in-house.


On Track Meetings with key stakeholders have commenced. Review of service levels currently provided by contractors has also been undertaken. Business case containing a cost - benefit analysis in respect of service and mode of delivery to be developed for endorsement prior to advertising a new contract.




Quarter Update

Comments


Redevelopment of the website to the new Juda platform via LGAQ.

To provide a user friendly website with current, relevant, easily accessible information supporting the communities and Council’s needs and requirements.

Full content upload. Q4 Office of the CEO

On Track Platform confirmed. Work now commencing on site mapping and priority pages.


Review and update corporate procurement documents.

To ensure the organisation has a consistent and compliant suite of procurement documentation.

Updated suite of procurement documents published on Council's internal intranet database and document management system.


Delayed/ Revised

Suite of documents is expected to be presented to Executive in January 2020.


Review Council's Procurement Policy.

An annual review is required to comply with the Act to ensure a contemporary and efficient procurement system.

Procurement Policy adopted by Council.


Completed Revised Procurement policy presented to October Council meeting.

Deliver a Gympie Regional Council community satisfaction survey rating against both comparable provincial councils and the state average, as measured in the biennial market facts survey. This survey is run in conjunction with the LGAQ state-wide survey.

Undertake a region wide community satisfaction survey based on the LGAQ biennial state-wide survey model.

Provide reliable benchmarking of Council's current performance within the Queensland local government sector.

Conduct the region wide survey.

Q4 Office of the CEO

To be commenced

Action to be commenced Q4.




Quarter Update

Comments


Investigate potential for sewerage pricing based on volume.

Recommendation to Council regarding implementation of volume-based pricing for non-residential customers in 2020/2021.

Report to Council on proposed water/sewerage charges for 2020/2021.


On Track Consultant engaged to carry out work. Report due in January/February.


Review current water/sewerage charges.

To ensure the financial sustainability of water/sewerage services and reduce any cross subsidisation between water/sewerage charges and general rates.

Report to Council on proposed water/sewerage charges for 2020/2021.




Review Water Business Unit operation under Local Government Regulation.

To determine if the Water Business Unit is required to be commercialised to meet the requirements of the Local Government Regulation and identify any institutional changes that will need to be made as a result.

Report to Council on operating model for Water Business Unit in 2020/2021.






Quarter Update

Comments


Enhance Council’s financial ledger and reporting functionality.

Improve efficiency and quality of financial data reported.

General ledger and reporting functionality implemented.


Completed Successful Go-Live over the weekend of 16-17 November. Project team continue to provide post go-live support across Council.


Automate Council’s use of corporate credit cards.

Improve efficiency and effectiveness of this procurement option.

Increase in use of corporate card >100.


Delayed/ Revised

Testing completed. Deferred until completion of the general ledger and reporting project. Revised completion date Q3.


Review Council’s Insurance process and policies.

Ensure the best value for Council.

Revised processes and policies adopted by Council and implemented.


On Track Continued focus of "best value for Council” in relation to insurance annual renewals and claims management practices in place. Regular interaction with Council Directorates in place for the investigations of claims with a view to improving internal processes.




Quarter Update

Comments


Enhance operational risk management practices.

Align risk management strategies to Council activities.

Council businesses adopting a risk management approach to their activities.


On Track The dedicated risk management training program commenced roll out to the Executive Team and Senior Leaders during November. The completion rate of the training by the end of Q2 been excellent. The roll out of the training to other staff will continue in Q3.


Identify available grants and funding opportunities for and on behalf of Council, and provide support to research, prepare and submit high quality applications while ensuring best practice outcomes for reporting and grant management.

Maximise the quality and success of grant applications for Council while streamlining grant reporting.

> 90 per cent success rate in funding applications lodged.

Grant application, reporting and management procedures formalised.


On Track Work is progressing for the development of the council-wide grant application, reporting and management processes and is on track to be delivered by Q4.




Quarter Update

Comments


Review Council’s Rates Concessions Policy.

Transparent and consistent application of policy.

Revised policy adopted by Council.


On Track The Rates Concession Policy development was commenced during Q2 and a draft is on track to be delivered to Council during Q3.


Increased utilisation of Learning Management System (LMS) catalogue.

Twelve month communication plan to:

• Promote LMS self-enrolment

• Monthly Activ8 themes - identify learning opportunities and request nominations.

Implement a training calendar to include monthly safety themes.

Number of LMS self-enrolments per month.

Number of enrolment per month.


On Track The LMS has been upgraded and all staff are now enrolled. All staff with computer access complete Take 5 Papers through this system.

Activ8 work to be commenced.

Training calendar will be consolidated with the corporate calendar which is now complete.


Implement Council’s project management framework.

Competency in the use of the project management framework will ensure consistent project scoping and delivery to provide value for money project outcomes.

Fifteen staff trained in Council’s project management framework.


Completed Twenty-five staff received project management training in December.




Quarter Update

Comments

Undertake regular staff satisfaction surveys.

Investigate a snapshot engagement survey.

Receive data on progress of bi-annual survey action plans.

Positive trending data demonstrating improvements.


Completed Investigation and quotes were completed. Executive decision made to not implement a snapshot survey. Full survey to be completed in 2020. Item completed.


To develop a skilled professional Internal construction delivery team and facilitate career progression, by enhancing the skills and competencies of staff.

To ensure the delivery of quality, value for money and timely construction projects.

Review of current Internal construction delivery team competencies conducted.


Completed Completed in Q1.




Promote skills improvement and career orientation and identify staff seeking career progression at team meetings.


On Track Expression of interest (EOI) being developed to Infrastructure Services (IS) Construction Staff with respect to career progression from Local Government Employee (LGE) positions to Leading Hand roles and more recently a review of operational strategy for EOI Leading Hand to Supervisor roles.




Quarter Update

Comments




Promote skills improvement and career orientation and identify staff seeking career progression at team meetings.


On Track Current LGE Leading Hand staff competent to Certificate IV have demonstrated positive interest in career progression and readily adapting to the changes within the Gympie Regional Council Construction Branch.

Expected action underway by mid-third quarter. There has been a significant increase in the interest of staff wanting to progress through the various career paths within Infrastructure Services Construction Branch. This provides a positive level of enthusiasm and motivation towards staff retainment through career succession planning.




Quarter Update

Comments




A workforce training plan developed for:

• Non-supervisory staff to achieve minimum of Level 2 Civil Construction competency; and

• Leading Hands and aspiring leaders to achieve a minimum Level 4 Civil Construction competency.


On Track Working closely with Council’s People and Organisational Development team to collate a training and skills matrix.

Expected action underway and ready for review by mid-fourth quarter.


Encourage skills and development through traineeships, cadetships and apprenticeships and other training initiatives.

Continuation of the established traineeship program.

Target of 11 per annum. Q4 Office of the CEO - People and Organisational Development

On Track Currently advertised and have received 150+ applications. Shortlisting to be completed by end of January 2020.

Strategy - Pursue funding opportunities and deliver the strategic plan for Tin Can Bay Jetty.

Pursue funding opportunities for the construction of the Tin Can Bay Jetty.

Construction of a recreational jetty at Norman Point will attract tourism visitation and enhance recreational opportunity.

Actively pursue grants funding for the construction of the Jetty.


On Track Council continually assesses potential funding opportunities to pursue. None were available in Q2.




Quarter Update

Comments

Strategy - Deliver infrastructure to facilitate economic development and enhanced liveability.

Develop a Bruce Highway Upgrade Strategy to proactively plan for the connection of Section D, including a policy and investment framework, an Urban Design and Streetscape Master Plan and an implementation program to capitalise on associated opportunities.

Proactively and positively address the impacts of the Bruce Highway upgrade and realise opportunities to create more liveable and connected communities with enhanced economic prosperity.

Commence development of the draft Bruce Highway Upgrade Strategy and undertake preliminary community and key stakeholder engagement.


To be commenced





Commence preparation of a draft Urban Design and Streetscape Masterplan for the existing highway alignment through Gympie.


On Track Project planning commenced and brief being developed. Masterplan preparation to commence during Q3.




Quarter Update

Comments




Undertake stakeholder and community engagement on the draft Urban Design and Streetscape Masterplan.


To be commenced



2019/2020 Bridge Replacement Program

Updates/Comments

Works progressing as planned.

■ one bridge completed

■ five bridges awarded, commencing shortly to be completed this financial year

■ two underway which will continue into next financial year (as per funding arrangement)

■ one commences design at end of FY to align with funding arrangement.

Issues/Risks

No issues to date.Risks:

■ latent conditions

■ weather/events.

Changes

None.

Top Capital Projects

Project Description

Delivery of Council’s bridge renewal program.

Corporate Plan Link

Our Infrastructure - Efficiently and effectively implement the Capital Works Road Plan.

Financial Data

Original Budget $2,954,916

Revised Budget $2,954,916

Actual Costs $349,937

Committed Value $241,137

Funding Source:

Internal Reserves: 0%

External Grants & Subsidies: 100%

Stakeholders

None.


Albert Park - One Mile Ovals

Project Description

Delivery of improvements in line with endorsed master plans and as per funding agreement with State Government under the Works for Queensland Program.

Includes new storage and change/amenities buildings at Albert Park and change/amenities building and premier cricket oval at One Mile.

Corporate Plan Link

Our Infrastructure – Deliver Infrastructure to facilitate economic development and enhance liveability.

Financial Data

Original Budget $0

Revised Budget $0



Funding Source:



Stakeholders

Council staff, Councillors, community and sport tenants (and Gympie Recreation Association).

Updates/Comments

Funding agreement for Albert Park is for a 30 November completion.

Storage facility and change/amenities building progress on track to meet this.

Demolition of redundant storage to be undertaken following completion of storage facility.

Issues/Risks

Minor weather delays have resulted in increase to delivery time. Service and electrical connections outstanding.

Changes

Minor changes to storage facility layout and stormwater treatment in response to stakeholder feedback. No budget implications.


Upper Mary Street Revitalisation

Project Description

This project is for major streetscape improvements to the section of Mary Street between Monkland and Channon Streets, including:

■ Renewed street furniture

■ An upgraded pedestrian crossing point.

Corporate Plan Link


Financial Data



Actual Costs $1,287,980

Committed Value $1,695,979

Funding Source:



Stakeholders

Predominantly traders and building owners.

Updates/Comments

Awarded construction contract to The Landscape Construction Company on 3 July 2019. Construction almost completed on two stages of four stage program. TLCC has had two crews working on the site for the past six weeks. Commencing 6 January, a third crew will be on site to help accelerate the works. Contractor’s current program shows completion in early March. This timeframe has been included in recent stakeholder updates.

Issues/Risks

Delays are possible due to weather, service relocations, ground conditions, etc.

Changes

Timeframe slipped due to increased scope of infrastructure renewal work and asbestos pit replacement. Minor scope changes to meet budget including reduced number of bins and seats, tree root pits changed. Negotiating price for asphalt surfacing as a potential contract variation to be funded from the road (resurfacing) program.


Youth Precinct

Project Description

Detailed design and construction of an all ages, all skill level wheeled sports facility in the form of a street/plaza skate area, flow area, bowl and surrounding flow area, bouldering wall and basic refurbishment of the existing Gympie Memorial Pool building.

Corporate Plan Link


Financial Data



Actual Costs $2,929,637


Funding Source:


External Not Applicable: 50%

Stakeholders

Community and surrounding neighbours.

Updates/Comments

Officially opened on 17 November 2019. Have been ongoing delays with fabrication of the climbing wall by sub-contractor to Ri-Con. Delays have been due to a number of issues including design documentation and sub-contractor workload. Sub-contractor is working through the Christmas/New Year period to have fabrication complete by 17 January.

Issues/Risks

Climbing wall manufacture last component to be delivered, plus section of balustrading. Needs to be completed before major competition scheduled for 25-26 January. As construction documentation and final certifications from builder and designer are also required.

Changes

Some changes to skate park elements in detailed design in response to community feedback. Climbing wall and shade shelters were re-designed and re-priced by contractor to keep project within available budget.


Finance Systems Improvements

Project Description

Implementation of system improvements further to a recent system health check.

Corporate Plan Link

Our Organisation - Prudent financial planning and control.

Financial Data

Original Budget $0

Revised Budget $238,000


Funding Source:

Internal Council Funds: 100%


Stakeholders

Council staff, Councillors and customers.

Updates/Comments

The general ledger rewrite, implementation of job costing (work orders) and BIS GL/WO Views went live in mid-November 2019.

Change management work is ongoing in relation to the development of financial reporting and staff engagement.

Issues/Risks

Resource capacity to deliver as per schedule.

Changes

Not applicable.

Top Operational Projects


Project Management

Project Description

Implementation of a Project Management Framework within Council to provide improvement in expenditure management, efficiency and project delivery reputation.

Corporate Plan Link

Our Organisation - Prudent financial planning and control.

Stakeholders

Council staff and councillors.

Updates/Comments

The Project and Procurement Branch commenced operation in Q3 2018. The Project Management Framework suite of documents has been reviewed and introductory training sessions for staff commenced. The projects funded by the Works for Queensland 2019 - 2021 have been identified as the first round of project managers to be trained. 48 per cent of the Works for Queensland projects have commenced use of the framework.

Introductory sessions have been held with various project managers for the 2019/20 Capital Program.

Issues/Risks

None.

Changes

Forty-eight per cent of W4Q projects commenced using framework.Parks, Waste, and ICT capital projects using the framework. Water, Sewerage, Community Projects, and Planning commenced implementation of the framework.Twenty five staff have undertaken Project Management training.


Planning Scheme

Project Description

A rolling program of planning scheme amendments to improve the clarity of planning policy and operation of the planning scheme in guiding good development outcomes.

Corporate Plan Link

Our Economy – Actively promote the region to encourage new business and employment.

Financial Data

Original Budget $250,000

Revised Budget $250,000



Funding Source:

Internal Council Funds: 100%


Stakeholders

Community, development industry, Council staff.

Updates/Comments

Public consultation on Amendment Package 2 commenced 8 July and closed 2 August. Seventy-seven submissions were received. Submission review has been finalised and a submission response table with recommendations on how to proceed with the submissions will be presented to Council at the 5 February Council Workshop.

Issues/Risks

Resource capacity to deliver as per schedule and potential to renotify amendment package if required changes in response to submissions are signficant.

Changes

Not applicable.


December 2019 Financial Report Links to Corporate/Operational Plan

Strategic Themes

1. Our Infrastructure: well planned, integrated and safe.

2. Our Community: active, diverse, creative and engaged.

3. Our Economy: dynamic, productive and resilient.

4. Our Environment: sustainable, well-managed and accessible.

5. Our Organisation: accountable, responsive, efficient and innovative.

Background and Previous Council Consideration

The financial report as at 31 December 2019 is provided for Council’s information to meet the monthly reporting obligations under the Local Government Regulation 2012.

Report

The financial statements provide a comparison of the actual results to 31 December 2019 to the revised budget adopted by Council on 23 October 2019.

Overall the year to date financial position to 31 October 2019 is tracking favourably compared to budget.

Operating Revenue

Council operational revenue year to date is slightly unfavourable with actual revenue received of $46.8M compared to the Year to Date (YTD) budget of $47.7M as at the 31 December 2019.

The unfavourable operational income variance compared to budget is primarily a result of lower than forecast revenue from fees and charges and the federal assistance grant due to the early close of the financial system for the Christmas/New Year period and is offset by the receipt of high than forecast rates revenue and lower than forecast discount on payment of rates.

The outstanding rates percentage at 31 December 2019 is 7.31 per cent compared to the percentage of rates issued outstanding of 7.83 per cent for the same period last financial year.

The lower percentage of outstanding rates at the end of December 2019 continues to reflect the downward trend in the balance of outstanding rates and the efforts of council officers monitoring this balance and providing assistance with setting up individual payment plans.


Operating Expenditure

Council’s actual operating expenditure to 31 December 2019 is currently $48.4M compared to the YTD budget of $50.3M. The resulting $1.9M favourable variance against the year to date budget is due to a number of factors including:

■ seasonal impacts on council services due to weather conditions;

■ staff vacancies and leave management;

■ timing of the distribution of the expenditure relating to the Environmental Levy; and

■ a number of operational projects being in the initial planning or design phases with the majority of the expenditure expected to be incurred in the latter half of the financial year.

The current favourable operational expenditure variance is being treated with caution and management will continue monitoring performance against budget with the view to identifying opportunities to reduce the projected operational deficit. The efficiencies identified are to be presented at the second quarter budget review.

Capital Revenue

Year to date (YTD) capital income of $4M received comprises:

■ capital grants ($1.2M);

■ cash contributions from developers ($1.2M);

■ recognition of donated assets ($1.6M).

Actual YTD Capital Revenue received is lower than the forecast amount due to delays in the financial completion of several capital projects and lower than forecast receipt of infrastructure charges to date. These revenue streams will be monitored and any adjustments included in future quarterly budget reviews.

Capital Project Expenditure

Actual expenditure on capital projects including commitments to 31 December 2019 is $22.6M against the total annual capital program budget of $44.5M.

A comprehensive review of the capital program was undertaken by both Council and senior management during January 2020 as part of the second quarter budget review which will be presented to Council in the February 2020 Council meeting. The forecasts for capital projects within the long term capital program will continue to be monitored and be updated where required.

Statement of Financial Position

A Statement of Financial Position as at 31 December 2019 compares the Council’s assets, liabilities and community equity position to the previous financial year. Community equity totals $1,132,383,185 compared to the total reported as at 31 December 2018 of $1,150,385,775.

A number of issues contribute to this adjustment, including a reduction of the Works in Progress (WIP) balance as a result of capitalisation of assets. Council apply a standard unit rate, relevant to the components of assets constructed. As a result of this process, assets may be capitalised at a value less than the cost to construct the asset, therefore reducing the community equity of Council. The current unit rates will be reviewed as part of the work around asset management and asset valuation processes, and the write-off of operational costs included in WIP.

There has also been an increase in the provisions for landfill and quarry restorations, which Infrastructure and finance staff are in the process of reviewing as part of the preparation of the financial statements for the year ended 30 June 2020.

Cash and Cash Equivalents Report

The total cash on hand at the end of December 2019 was $28.9M, excluding funds held in trust.

Council funds invested with Queensland Treasury Corporation at the 31 December 2019 totaled $26.4M with a further $1M of term deposits invested Bendigo Community Bank.

Council also holds trust funds of $1.16M for developers, ratepayers and other parties.


The graph below presents the comparisons of the funds invested and held in trust for 31 December 2018 and 31 December 2019.

The indicative interest rate on investments as at 31 December 2019 is 1.58 per cent compared to 2.51 per cent as at 31 December 2018. As part of the ongoing monitoring and review of Council’s financial performance in the 2019/2020 year, it is anticipated that the cash position is currently stabilising with improvements in the cash balance forecast over the medium to long term as a result of the adjustments to the operational and 10 year capital program identified in the second quarter budget review.

Borrowings Report

As at the 31 December 2019, the balance of Council loans is $17.5M. The balance of Council’s borrowings is continuing to trend downwards since the loan drawdowns on the 16 June 2010 for the Gympie Sewerage Treatment Plant and the Waste Management Facility. In accordance with Local Government Financial Regulations, all of Council’s borrowings are with Qld Treasury Corporation.

Budget Implications

The financial transactions year to date to 31 December have identified some minor variations from the budget adopted on 23 October 2019. Any material variations from the adopted budget identified prior to the end of the calendar year and will be included in the budget review to be presented at the February 2020 Council meeting.

Policy Implications

Monthly management reporting and quarterly forecasts are in line with Council policy, the Local Government Act 2009 and the Local Government Regulations 2012.

Consultation

Consultation to provide commentary regarding the financial performance to the 31 December 2019 has been undertaken with Managers, Directors and the Chief Executive Officer.

Conclusion

Council’s financial statements for the period ended 31 December provides a comparison of actual results against the revised budget adopted at the 23 October 2019 Council Meeting. Overall actual results align with the current budget forecast.


2020 2019Assets

Current AssetsCash Assets and Cash Equivalents 28,951,592 39,029,512 Inventories 2,917,091 2,618,080 Trade and Other Receivables 10,362,621 9,477,474 Total Current Assets 42,231,304 51,125,066

Non-Current AssetsWorks in Progress 57,319,825 74,309,707 Property, Plant and Equipment 1,079,847,604 1,069,246,910 Trade and Other Receivables 1,000,000 1,100,000 Total Non-Current Assets 1,138,167,429 1,144,656,617

Total Assets 1,180,398,733 1,195,781,683

LiabilitiesCurrent Liabilities

Borrowings 1,163,691 1,204,438 Other Liabilities 387,128 2,323,891 Provisions 11,391,476 4,498,422 Trade and Other Payables 4,339,368 5,921,396 Total Current Liabilities 17,281,663 13,948,147

Non-Current LiabilitiesBorrowings 16,331,878 17,689,769 Provisions 14,402,008 13,757,992 Trade and Other Payables - - Total Non-Current Liabilities 30,733,886 31,447,761

Total Liabilities 48,015,548 45,395,908

Net Assets 1,132,383,185 1,150,385,775

Community EquityAsset Revaluation Reserves 389,603,369 410,930,419 Retained Surplus - - Council Capital 739,831,281 735,031,365 Operating result current year 2,948,535 4,423,991

Total Community Equity 1,132,383,185 1,150,385,775

Statement of Financial Position

As at 31 Dec 2019


Resource Group YTD ActualsYTD Current

Budget YTD VarianceAnnual Current

Budget

% of full Year

BudgetIncome

OperatingRates Levies & Charges 39,521 38,735 787 77,469 51.01%Discounts & Remissions (1,660) (2,329) 669 (4,658) 35.63%

37,861 36,406 1,456Fees & Charges 3,401 5,341 -1,940 10,681 31.84%Grants, Subs, Contributions & Donations 3,037 3,418 -381 6,836 44.43%Interest & Investment Revenue 498 421 77 842 59.19%Other Income 432 35 398 69 626.24%Rental Income 214 213 1 426 50.23%Sales Revenue 1,351 1,863 -512 3,726 36.26%Sales Revenue 35 0 35 0 0.00%

Operating Total 46,829 47,696 (867) 95,391 49.09%

CapitalCapital Grants, Subs, Contributions & Donations 4,000 5,804 -1,804 11,607 34.46%Internal Transfers 392 0 392 0.00%Profit/Loss on Disposal of PPE & Intangibles 10 0 10 0 0.00%

Capital Total 4,402 5,804 -1,402 11,607 37.92%Income Total 51,231 53,499 -2,268 106,998 47.88%

ExpenditureOperating

Depreciation Amortisation & Impairment 10,138 10,140 2 20,280 49.99%Employee Costs 18,750 20,067 1,317 40,133 46.72%Finance Costs 466 683 217 1,366 34.09%Materials & Services 19,024 19,435 411 38,870 48.94%

Operating Total 48,378 50,325 1,947 100,649 48.07%

CapitalProfit/Loss on Disposal of PPE & Intangibles 379 597 218 1,193 31.75%

Capital Total 379 597 218 1,193 31.75%Expenditure Total 48,757 50,921 2,164 101,842 47.87%

Internal TransactionsInternal Revenue 3,485 0 3,485 0 0.00%Internal Transfers 3,011 0 -3,011 0 0.00%

Internal Transactions Total 474 0 474

NET RESULT 2,948 2,578 371 5,156 57.19%

YTD for November 2019-20 GL WorkOrder Data Capital & Operating & Other Types Expenditure \ Income for jumped for 01 - General Fund

Operating StatementDec-19

(This report refers to the budget adopted by Council on 23 October 2019)


P:\Finance\EOM\2019_20\P6_December\Councillor Reports\Cash Equivalents Report EOM

Cash and Cash Equivalents Operating Account $1,572,656Investments (excluding Trust portion) $27,378,936

$28,951,592

50%

Investment Breakup Invested Balance 2019/20

Invested Balance 2018/19 YTD Int. Yield Annual Budget % of Annual

Budget

$469,419 $750,000 62.59%QTC Investments $26,378,936 $36,698,936Term Deposits - Auswide Bank - $1,000,000Term Deposits - Bendigo Bank $1,000,000 $1,000,000Term Deposits - National Australia Bank $0 $1,000,000QTC Investments - Trust Portion $1,161,634 $1,161,634Indicative Interest Rate 1.58% 2.51%

Comment: Investments placed in accordance with Council's Investment Policy PR-FS-023 Council's investment policy is reviewed annually.

Trust Trust Account $948,260Investment (Trust Portion) - QTC $1,161,634

$2,109,894

BIS Report

Dec-19Constrained/Unconstrained Cash

Unspent Environment Levy Unspent Unspent Govt Unspent Govt Net Future Capital Works Total Restricted Unrestricted Total$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $

420,757 6,075,463 3,500,978 577,581 7,982,253 18,557,031 9,858,776 28,415,807

$420,757 $6,075,463 $3,500,978 $577,581 $7,982,253 $18,557,031 $9,858,776 $28,415,807

as at 31 December 2019

CASH & CASH EQUIVALENTS as at 31 December 2019

(IN ACCORDANCE WITH COUNCIL'S INVESTMENT POLICY)

% Year Completed

Trust Register

05000

1000015000200002500030000350004000045000

Invested Balance2018/19

Invested Balance2019/20

GRC Investments

GRC Investments

Operating Account

Trust Account

QTC Investments

Indicative Interest Rate

Term Deposits - NationalAustralia Bank


50%Rate Collection 31/12/2019 Rate Collection 31/12/2018

$4,000,903 $4,037,296Levy Raised to date 19/20 $41,392,016 Levy Raised to date 18/19 $38,819,224Interest Raised $231,122 Interest Raised $277,322Receipts $39,381,941 Receipts $36,649,200Discount Applied $1,904,322 Discount Applied $1,739,868Pensioner Rebate (Govt) $696,957 Pensioner Rebate (Govt) $683,901Pensioner Rebate (Council) $333,167 Pensioner Rebate (Council) $329,022Balance Outstanding on 19/20 Half Yearly Levy $3,307,655 Balance Outstanding on 18/19 Half Yearly Levy $3,731,851

Credit Balance $2,356,169 Credit Balance $2,348,609

Balance Outstanding $5,663,824 Balance Outstanding $6,080,460

% of 19/20 levy Outstanding 7.31% % of 18/19 levy Outstanding 7.83%

as at 31 December 2019

% Year Completed

Arrears as at 1 July 2019 Arrears as at 1 July 2018

RATE COLLECTION


DirectorateActuals - YTD

31/12/19Committed

ValueTotal Costs YTD

31/12/191st Budget

ReviewCap % of full Year Budget

DCCSCommunity Learning & Engagement $80,722 21,729 $102,451 213,496 48%Community Projects $1,061,701 86,469 $1,148,170 2,330,978 49%Gympie Futures $0 0 $0 100,000 0%Gympie Venues & Events $166,536 33,593 $200,129 1,750,000 11%Property & Facilities $358,744 35,348 $394,091 1,195,012 33%Technology & Business Systems $437,020 47,225 $484,245 1,929,398 24%

DCCS Total $2,104,722 224,365 $2,329,087 7,518,884 30%

DISInfrastructure Assets $4,537,403 1,893,062 $6,430,464 14,173,951 45%IS Business Support ($1,628) 411,487 $409,860 3,529,775 12%Parks $720,819 214 $721,033 1,230,966 52%Waste Services $79,042 3,000 $82,042 3,101,759 3%

DIS Total $5,335,636 2,307,763 $7,643,399 22,036,451 34%

OCEOCEO $491,841 39,764 $531,605 734,294 72%Water Business Unit $3,011,122 939,311 $3,950,433 6,019,155 66%

OCEO Total $3,502,963 979,075 $4,482,037 6,753,449 66%

P&D

Environmental Health & Regulatory Services $23,457 0 $23,457 34,147 69%Place Management $0 0 $0 24,103 0%Planning Strategy & Major Projects $5,264,290 1,769,874 $7,034,164 8,101,739 87%

P&D Total $5,287,747 1,769,874 $7,057,621 8,159,989 86%

Total $16,231,069 5,281,075 $21,512,144 44,468,773 48%

Capital Program Review Actuals YTD


Works for Queensland – Round 2Project Description Budget

AllocationStatus Completion Date

Albert Park/One Mile Revitalisation

In line with the Albert Park/One Mile Masterplan, One Mile Ovals project will undertake major upgrades and redevelopment of two existing oval and facilities. Through the additional fund-ing, Albert Park will receive improved facilities, seating and amenities. The project will effective-ly use both grounds and make available additional sporting facilities for targeted events and sports.

$2,190,000 Completed 30 October 2019

No. 1 Scottish Mine Precinct

This project will be constructed on state heritage listed land and will involve the construction of pedestrian paths, interpretative signage and associated infrastructure to incorporate existing buildings.

$200,000 Completed 10 December2019

River to Rail Stage 2 and Sands Riverside Parkland

The project will involve minor infrastructure works to construct walking trails to connect the existing River to Rail Trail from Stage 1, through Deep Creek in Gympie to the well utilised One Mile Sports Precinct then to the Historic Rail Station Precinct. This will improve safety and visual amenity through the provision of upgraded, safe and accessible infrastructure.

$1,000,000 Completed 31 October 2019


Works for Queensland – Round 3Project Description Budget

AllocationStatus Completion Date

River to Rail Stage 3 Extend the River to Rail trail from The Sands precinct to the historic Gympie Railway station, linking recreational infrastructure of One Mile Sports Oval and Gympie Aquatic Recreation Centre. This will involve construction of a concrete footpath and carpark crossover at One Mile Sports Complex and concrete footpath linking access directly to Aquatic Recreation Centre and Gympie Railway Station precinct.

$350,000 In progress 30 June 2020

Rainbow Beach Our Towns

The project will boost the tourism and economic potential of world renowned tourism destination of Rainbow Beach by enhancing the visual amenity and revitalising the streetscape of the township through installing smart street lighting including decorative tree lighting, street tree and streetscape plantings, undergrounding Council infrastructure, installing street furniture and improving the pedestrian environment and access.

$1,000,000 In progress 18 December 2020

Kilkivan to Kingaroy Rail Trail Enhancements

This project will deliver additional stages of the Kilkivan to Kingaroy Rail Trail, in line with Council’s Corporate Plan 2017-2022, to progressively improve the trail to attract more visitors and enhance user experience. Improvements to the trail and associated trail embellishments (Kilkivan to LGA border with South Burnett Regional Council section) will be undertaken. This will respond to user and community feedback on priorities for enhancement, including elements such as sections of the trail surface and rest opportunities.


RV Strategy Stage 1 Delivery

This project will provide improvements to short term accommodation options RV travellers in locations that maximise the ability for RV visitors to access retail, commercial, recreational and tourist facilities and natural attractions. The project will implement infrastructure enhancements in priority RV locations including signage, surface improvements, garbage bins, park furniture and dump points. Targeted sites include Kilkivan and Kandanga.

$135,000 In progress 30 November 2020


Project Description Budget Allocation

Status Completion Date

Gympie Civic Centre Upgrade

This project includes building works and upgrades to the electrical and technical facilities of the Gympie Civic Centre to allow it to provide services as would be expected of a professional performing arts venue. The developments include upgrades of the audio visual equipment in all event spaces, refurbishment of the box office, dressing rooms and asbestos removal on building exterior.

$1,500,000 In progress 30 June 2020

Art Gallery Shop Upgrade

Redesign and construction of new contemporary shop at the Gallery to showcase high quality local and visiting visual artists and artisans. Shop will be a revenue stream for local professional artists, increase visitation to Gallery, and generate revenue for gallery. Detailed drawings completed by Bark Designs waiting for a funding opportunity to complete.


Lower Wonga Hall Upgrade

Installation of commercial kitchen and appliances to meet requirements of a recovery and evacuation centre in west of Gympie region, with new shed, showers and additional power connection across site.

$200,000 In progress 1 May 2021

‘Cultural Network’ Signage Project

Installation of site-appropriate signage that visually links cultural destinations and events sites around Gympie region including, Civic Centre, Showgrounds, Goomeri Hall, Kilkivan Hall, and Art Gallery. Information signs will promote identification and visitation to cultural destinations and event sites across the region and may support the various Indigenous Land Use Agreements being developed.

$135,000 In progress 31 December 2020

Makerspace Library Construction and installation of a Makerspace at Gympie Library to expose the community to new skills and technology, providing opportunities for the community to foster inquisitiveness, imagination, and motivation as well as engaging learners in high-order problem solving through hands-on design, creation and iteration, providing access to technologies that foster life-long learning. Construction of a suitable room within the Gympie Library. Included in the project; installation of appropriate power and data cabling and outlets, construction and installation of fixed cabinets and work benches.

$60,000 In progress 30 April 2020


Project Description Budget Allocation

Status Completion Date

Tin Can Bay Bird Hide In response to public feedback and enquiries, this project will design and construct a purpose built Bird Hide to promote eco-tourism to Tin Can Bay.


Rammutt Road Rammutt Road is a rural sub-arterial road servicing industrial and residential traffic. It also acts as a detour route for Bruce Highway traffic when the highway is blocked by flooding or crashes. The project will upgrade this section to two lanes to improve safety, reduce ongoing shoulder maintenance costs, and improve amenity for adjacent residents.



Waste Services Business Unit Quarterly UpdateCouncil’s Waste Services Business Unit comprises of the following activities:

■ kerbside collection service for solid waste and recyclables

■ waste disposal services at waste management facilities that include transfer stations bin sites and one landfill

■ drop off recycling service at waste management facilities

■ recovered materials shop

■ green waste management

■ waste minimisation education.

The Waste Services business supports the following strategic direction from the Corporate Plan:

Proactively implement Council’s Waste Management Strategy and Rural Landfills Strategy with key performance measure being “Implementation of actions in the Waste Management Strategy”.

Second quarter dataDomestic and commercial kerbside waste and recyclables collection

Council provides:

■ weekly waste collections in 240 litre mobile garbage bins

- in Quarter 2 there are 22,802 domestic services and 2,401 commercial services

■ fortnightly recyclables collections in 240 litre mobile garbage bins

■ public litter bin collections at various frequencies.

First Quarter

Second Quarter

Oct-19 Nov-19 Dec-19 Total

Domestic Waste Bin Empties 298,318 116,153 91,544 92,628 300,325

Commercial Waste Bin Empties 31,773 12,146 9,650 9,880 31,676

Total Waste Bin Empties 330,091 128,299 101,194 102,508 332,001

Domestic Recycling Bin Empties 145,458 56,368 44,772 45,310 146,450

Commercial Recycling Bin Empties 9,379 3,617 2,858 2,933 9,408

Total Recycling Bin Empties 154,837 59,985 47,630 48,243 155,858

56,368 44,772 45,310 146,450

Public Place Bin Empties 12,349 4,820 3,317 4,192 12,329

Recyclables (tonnes) 809 317 254 302 873

Kerbside Waste Disposal (tonnes) 3,351 1,223 1,091 1,148 3,462


Waste Management Facilities

Council provides waste management facilities for the disposal of solid waste and recyclables:

■ nine transfer station/bin sites

■ one operational landfill.

Open Hours

per Week

First Quarter Second Quarter

Number of visits

Average customers

per hour

Number of visits Oct-19

Number of visits Nov-19

Number of visits Dec-19

Number of visits

Average customers

per hour

Amamoor WMF 12 100 0.65 39 41 43 123 0.79

Bonnick Road WMF 50 11580 17.82 4287 4307 4438 13032 19.99

Tin Can Bay WMF 40 1679 3.23 628 689 783 2100 4.04

Goomeri WMF 31 282 0.7 107 87 93 287 0.72

Gunalda WMF 20 586 2.26 197 194 303 694 2.67

Mary Valley WMF 24 1101 3.53 353 458 496 1307 4.19

Kilkivan WMF 31 404 1.01 161 175 162 498 1.24

Rainbow Beach WMF 32 613 1.48 249 231 292 772 1.86

Sexton WMF 20 123 0.48 40 52 57 149 0.58

Widgee WMF 40 418 0.81 135 157 221 513 0.99

Waste and recyclables

Council’s Waste Management Services collects, receives and manages three waste streams:

■ Solid waste – disposed to Bonnick Road Landfill

■ Recyclable materials – predominantly paper cardboard and beverage containers is sorted by the contractor and distributed to recyclers. Council also manages scrap metal, waste oil, ewaste, tyre and empty chemical containers.

■ Green waste – processed (mulched) and stockpiled and used on site where possible.

Waste Type Tonnes/volume received in First Quarter

Tonnes/volume received in Second Quarter

Solid Waste Disposed at Bonnick Road(tonnes) 7,936 8,235

Green Waste (m3 as mulch) received at all waste management facilities

2,002 3,486


New Initiative - Tarpomatic Daily Cover for Active Landfill

The licence conditions at the Bonnick Road Landifll require the landfill face to be covered at the end of the working day. This is provided by using a soil/mulch mixture, which is currently costing $150,000 per year, as well as consuming valuable airspace.

The daily requirement for soil/mulch mixture is approximately 60-70m3 or 20,000m3 per annum. This volume of cover occupies valuable landfill airspace that could be used to dispose 12,000 tonnes of refuse (potential revenue of $2,628,000 that includes waste levy and GST) as well as extending the life by 5-6 months.

In view of this, officers investigated alternative cover systems and, as a result, Council has implemented the use of the “Tarpomatic” system. The system uses a self-contained unit that attaches to the blade of a dozer or compactor to unroll and retrieve heavy-duty tarpaulins.

Tarpomatic tarpaulins are manufactured from woven polyethylene fabric treated with an antibacterial coating and weighted with chains to withstand winds of up to 100km/hour. They are also flame retardant and are impermeable, keeping odours in and water out.

Council is hiring the machine rather than undertaking a capital purchase, given that the landfill will close in 2-3 years.

Tarpomatics are used at many landfills in Victoria and New South Wales but only in Toowoomba in Queensland.

Hazardous Chemical Collections

Council provides a twice yearly hazardous household chemical collection day. Specialist chemists with appropriate storage containers are available at a nominated location to accept unwanted chemicals that residents have accumulated in sheds and garages.

The hazardous household collection day was on 16 November 2019, and 2471kg of various chemicals were collected, sorted and transported safely for treatment and disposal.

Regional Transfer Station

A new Regional Transfer Station is proposed to efficiently manage the sorting and transport of the region’s waste to an appropriately licenced landfill outside of our region once the existing landfill has reached its capacity. The design for access road (Laurenceson Road) upgrade design has been finalised and construction will commence in February 2020.

Expression of Interest – Waste Acceptance

Council sought and received expressions of interest from companies offering to accept the regions waste once the current landfill has closed. The full cost model that incorporates costing information received via EOI was developed to assess the impact of transfer and disposal outside of the region on entire waste services budget. Due to improved landfill airspace utilisation at Bonnick Road, the procurement of the disposal post Bonnick Road closure can be postponed until next financial year.

Toolara Proposed Landfill Site

The finalisation of the purchase of this site is continuing with the State Government commencing the process of extinguishing Native Title to meet the land purchase conditions. Ownership of this site is a significant strategic project to allow the community to control and manage its own waste if, and when, it may be required.


Waste to Energy

Following the tender process, a consultant was engaged to prepare the feasibility study for WtE for the Wide Bay Burnett region and the first draft report will be presented to WBBROC waste officers in December 2019, with the final report expected to be issued in February 2020.

Financial Position

The budget allocation for the waste services function operational expenditure within the financial year 2019/2020 is $10,321,252 and the operational revenue is $12,124,532 creating an operational surplus of $1,802,892.

Waste Services Business Unit

2019/2020 Budget YTD Budget YTD Actual

Revenue (12,124,532) (6,300,013) (5,983,625)

Expense 10,321,127 4,900,033 3,962,821


Water Business Unit Quarterly UpdateIntroductionThe Water Business Unit (WBU) manages the operation and maintenance of council’s water and sewerage system and forms part of the Office of the CEO.

Since November 2016, the WBU has been operating as a separate business unit, rather than operating within a directorate. While it has not been formally constituted as a commercial business unit under the provisions of the Local Government Regulation 2012, it is operating under commercial principles.

The following information provides a summary of the performance of the water and sewerage services during the current financial year.

The WBU performs all of the functions listed below, with the exception of storage management of Borumba Dam, in the urban water cycle. Borumba Dam is managed by Seqwater.

Water Business UnitThe Water Business Unit Has an FTE staff complement of 57, split into four sections:

■ Operations and Maintenance

■ Strategic Planning

■ Program Delivery

■ Customer and Commercial Services.

The WBU operates and maintains eight water and seven sewage treatment plants across the region. The WBU services over 12,800 water connections in nine towns and supplies sewerage services to over 11,500 properties across seven towns.

The WBU compiles and distributes a Business Performance Report, summarising each month’s activities and performance against KPIs.

The majority of the information following is extracted from previous monthly reports.

Figure 1 - Urban water cycle

Recla

im

ed Water

Deliver

y

Delivery

Wastewater

Delivery

Drinking W

ater

Raw Water

Delivery

Water Cycle

Customer

Environment

Reclaimed Water Monitoring

Effluent Discharge Monitoring

Environmental Licence Monitoring

Storage Management

Pipeline Operation and Maintenance

Pump Station Operation and Maintenance

Critical Control Points

Water Treatment

Process ControlSewage

Treatment

Reticulation Operation and Maintenance

DWQMP Compliance Monitoring

Reservoir Operation and Maintenance

WWTP Operation and Maintenance

Sewer Pump Station Operation and Maintenance

Sewer Operation and Maintenance


Key Performance Indicators

NPR Code ParameterAnnual Target

Second Quarter 31 Dec 2019

OUR INFRASTRUCTURE – Efficient and reliable services

IA8 Number of water main breaks 40 24 ●A8 Water main breaks per 100km of water main 9 5.4 ●H3 Microbiological compliance1 98% 100% ●- Number of sewer mains breaks and chokes 30 31 ●A14 Sewer main breaks and chokes per 100km of sewer main 7 7.2 ●OUR COMMUNITY – Valued service for our customers

IC9 Number of water quality complaints 10 4 ●C9 Number of water quality complaints per 1,000 properties 0.7 0.3 ●IC10 Number of water service complaints 10 1 ●C10 Water service complaints per 1,000 properties 0.7 0.1 ●IC11 Number of sewerage service complaints 5 0 ●C11 Sewerage service complaints per 1,000 properties 0.4 0 ●OUR ENVIRONMENT – Environmental performance and compliance

CS59 Sewage overflows2 15 2 ●Sewage treatment plant compliance3 >80% 54 ●

Our Infrastructure

Water Network ReliabilityUnplanned interruptions

Table 1 – Unplanned interruptions

Parameter Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec YTD

Number of unplanned interruptions 6 4 3 3 6 6 28

Number due to breaks/leaks 5 2 3 3 6 5 24

Number restored within 5 hours 3 4 3 3 2 3 18

Average number of properties affected 12 36 35 23 36 36 29

Average response time (h:mm) 0:36 1:10 1:09 0.:25 1:12 1:01 0:57

Average hours to rectify (h:mm) 4:26 2:38 1:04 2:45 7:13 4:08 4:02

1 The %-age of the total population served where compliance with the microbiological requirements are met.2 Sewage overflows reported to environmental regulator.3 Based on overall plant compliance


Planned interruptions

Table 2 - Planned interruptions

Parameter Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec YTD

Number of planned interruptions 4 5 2 3 0 1 15

No. restored within 5 hours 4 5 2 3 - 1 15

Average time to rectify (h:mm) 0:46 1:21 1:05 0:33 - 0:46 1:01

Average number of properties affected 15 11 19 41 - 25 20

Our Community

Water quality compliance

Gympie Regional Council is a registered water service provider under the Water Supply (Safety & Reliability) Act 2008, and is therefore required to operate under an approved Drinking Water Quality Management Plan.

Gympie Regional Council provides drinking water services to eight communities within its region, as shown in the table below.

Table 3 - Drinking water supply schemes (data from SWMS 2017/18)

SchemeApprox.

Population servedWater

ConnectionsMaximum

Demand (ML/d)Annual

Demand (ML/d)

Amamoor 232 95 0.09 14.4

Goomeri 602 266 0.50 50.2

Gympie 20,887 8,426 11.89 2,546.6

Imbil 564 253 0.58 73.8

Kandanga 232 103 0.23 26.7

Kilkivan 556 246 0.22 44.3

Rainbow Beach 2,117 842 2.63 401.8

Tin Can Bay/Cooloola Cove 6,728 2,586 2.60 539.7

Total 31,918 12,817 18.74 3,697.5

All water supply systems were compliant with microbiological parameters during the second quarter. All water supply systems remained within turbidity limits.


In December two non-compliances were recorded for trihalomethanes, as per table below.

Table 4 - Trihalomethane (THM) non-compliances

Date of incident Water supply THM (µg/L) Cause of problem

9/12/2019 Amamoor 3104 As the water level drops the quality deteriorates. High iron and manganese levels are being dealt with via pre-chlorination. While this is effective in reducing the iron and manganese, it also oxidises organic matter leading to the formation of THMs.

THMs are not an acute health issue.

9/12/2019 Kandanga 330

Water SecurityUrban restrictions

The current levels of water restrictions are as indicated below. Water restriction levels are reviewed each month. Level 1 restrictions are permanent water restrictions and are the default if there are no higher level restrictions in place.

Table 5 - Water restrictions

Restriction Level

Level 1 Level 2 Level 3 Level 4 Level 5 Level 6

GympieImbilTin Can BayCooloola Cove

NIL AmamoorKandangaKilkivanGoomeri

NIL NIL NIL

The situation in each water supply, as at 31 December 2019 is summarised below.

Kandanga The water level in the weir is dropping slowly. The level is being monitored and no changes to the current restriction level is required at present. Level 3 restrictions remain in place.

Imbil Imbil receives water from Borumba Dam. It is presently on permanent water saving measures (Level 1 restrictions). The trigger for increased restrictions in Imbil is a drop in dam level to 50 per cent. Borumba Dam is still over 60 per cent full. There is no need for a review of restrictions at Imbil.

Goomeri Goomeri is currently on Level 3 restrictions. The town reverted to bore water supply in mid-October and the bores are performing well. There have been no changes in the situation at Goomeri and therefore Level 3 restrictions remain in place.

Kilkivan Kilkivan is on Level 3 restrictions. There are presently no supply problems being experienced in Kilkivan and no change is foreseen. Additional bores are available if a production bore has an issue. Therefore, Level 3 restrictions remain in place.

4 Australian Drinking Water Guidelines recommendation is that THMs should not exceed 250 µg/L.


Cooloola Cove/Tin Can Bay/Rainbow Beach

The coastal towns are presently all on permanent water saving measures (Level 1 restrictions). The supply to all three towns is from the Cooloola Sandmass groundwater. The Cooloola Sandmass can theoretically supply the coastal towns for many years without issue.

Gympie Gympie receives its water from Borumba Dam. Gympie is presently on permanent water saving measures (Level 1 restrictions).

The next applicable trigger for increased restrictions in Gympie is a water level of 50 per cent in Borumba Dam. The dam is presently over 60 per cent full.

There is no need for a review of restrictions in Gympie at present and Level 1 water saving measures remain in place.

Amamoor Amamoor is supplied from the Amamoor Creek and is presently on Level 3 restrictions (target 180 L/person/day).

DNRME continues to liaise with the Amamoor Creek irrigators regarding the low levels in the creek. Irrigators implemented self-imposed restrictions to aid recovery of water levels in the creek.

A review of restriction levels may be required by the end of January 2020.

Dam levels

Borumba Dam is the main source of water for Gympie. It was at of 63.7 per cent of Full Supply Level (FSL) as at 16 January 2020.

Complaints

Table 6 - Complaints5 by category for 2019/20, based on CRMs received

Category Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec Total

Water

Quality/reliability 0 1 0 2 0 1 4

Pressure 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Taste/odour 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Service 0 0 0 0 1 0 1

Other 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Sewerage

Sewage odours 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Other 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Other

Billing & accounts 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Customer service 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Other 0 0 0 0 0 0 0

Total 0 0 0 2 1 1 5

5 ‘Complaint’ means a written or verbal expression of dissatisfaction about an action, proposed action or failure to act by the water business unit, including a failure of the water business unit to observe its published policies, practices or procedures. Definition provided by Victorian Essential Services Commission.


Our Environment

Sewerage Network ReliabilityBlockages and overflows

Table 7 - Sewer blockages and breaks

Parameter Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec Total

Number of sewer blockages/breaks 4 4 8 7 4 4 31

Number restored within 5 hours 4 4 8 7 4 4 31

Average outage duration (h:mm) 1:13 2:02 2:13 2:00 2:37 2:09 2:04

Table 8 - Sewer overflows

Parameter Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec Total

Number of sewer overflows 3 5 7 6 5 4 30

Number contained within 5 hours 3 5 7 6 5 4 30

Spills impacting properties 3 4 4 5 4 3 23

Reportable overflows6 0 0 0 1 1 0 2

Sewage treatment plant compliance

Gympie Regional Council provides sewerage collection and treatment services to seven communities within its region, as shown in the table below.

Table 9 – Sewerage collection schemes (as at 30 June 2018)

SchemeApprox. Population

servedSewage

Connections Load (ML/d)

Goomeri 602 249 43.5

Gympie 20,887 7,542 1,852.0

Imbil 564 234 39.2

Kilkivan 556 190 39.9

Rainbow Beach 2,117 840 179.2

Cooloola Cove 3,586 1,349 328.0

Tin Can Bay 3,142 1,182 353.3

Total 31,454 11,586 2,835.1

6 Overflows are reportable if the spill reaches a waterway, or exceeds 10 kL in volume.


Council operates under an Environmental Authority for its seven sewage treatment plants. The following table summarises compliance with all licence parameters.

Non-compliant parameters for the most recent month are detailed in the footnotes. The non-compliances are all related to the salinity (measured as electrical conductivity – EC) of the treated effluent. In all cases the influent salinity exceeds the licence parameter and the sewage treatment plants cannot treat for salinity.

The coastal treatment plants receive highly saline water by virtue of infiltration into the sewer network, owing to high water tables. Goomeri’s failure can be traced to the highly saline groundwater used to supply the town with water.

Council received a pre-enforcement notice from DES on 9 December, relating to a phosphorous exceedance at the Gympie STP in November 2019. The alleged non-compliance was related to release of effluent to the Mary River with a total phosphorous level of 1.04 mg/L during a period of low flow (< 50ml/day) in early November. The limit, during times of low flow, is 0.5mg/L. The limit at other times is 3mg/L.

Table 9 - Sewage treatment plant compliance

Parameter Jul Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec YTD Compliance (%)

Gympie 83

Imbil 100

Rainbow Beach 7 0

Tin Can Bay 8 17

Cooloola Cove 100

Kilkivan 100

Goomeri 9 0

Overall compliance 54

Legend Compliant with licence limit Exceeded licence limit


Other initiatives

New water bottle refill stations

Council has taken delivery of four new water refill stations. These are being made available for community groups and Council to use at events around the region to promote sustainability, supported by the ‘refill not landfill’ message.

The purchase of the units was a joint initiative of Planning and Development, Infrastructure Services and the Water Business Unit. The graphics were custom designed and Council branded to help promote Council’s role in encouraging and leading sustainability.

As can be seen from the photo below, the units are compact and portable, coming in a wheeled bag for convenient transport. Set up is quick and easy, taking only a few minutes for a single person. The units can be used singly or joined together to form a water wall or hydration station.

University of Sunshine Coast

Sayed Khan, WBU Manager Strategic Planning, represented Gympie Regional Council at the University of the Sunshine Coast’s 2019 School of Science and Engineering Awards Evening on 15 October.

Sayed presented a $5,000 scholarship to Shaun Hayward, a third year Civil Engineering student, to enable Shaun to complete his final year project. The scholarship forms part of the research agreement with USC to provide support to the demand management trial being undertaken in Amamoor.

Shaun is analysing data from the trial to determine what impact the change from water restrictions to a water allocation is having on consumer behaviour. As part of this work Shaun has designed an in-house console which shows water use in real time from the customer’s meter.

The work also involves installing piezometers in Amamoor Creek to better understand stream flows during periods of very low flow.


National Water Week colouring competition

National Water Week is conducted in October each year and provides an opportunity to remind ourselves and teach others that water must be used wisely if there is to be enough to meet the needs of our future generations.

As part of National Water Week the Water Business Unit coordinated a colouring-in competition.

To encourage participation colouring-in sheets and pencils were provided to local schools, all of Council’s libraries and Council’s pools.

Winners were judged in two groups:

■ 2-7 years

■ 8-14 years.

Winners were awarded a voucher from one of a number of local businesses including: Sportspower; Toyworld, Gympie Tenpin Bowling and Gympie Jungle.

Gympie Regional Council1300 307 800 2 Caledonian Hill (PO Box 155) Gympie QLD 4570gympie.qld.gov.au

Documents

Second Quarter Corporate Report 2019 - gympie.qld.gov.au€¦ · completed in Q2: Barter Street – street renewal River to Rail Stage 3 been promoting beneficial soil microbes and