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BATHURST REGIONAL COUNCIL ANNUAL REPORT 2003 –

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ANNUAL REPORT 2003–2004 | BATHURST REGIONAL COUNCIL 3

ABOUT THIS REPORT

This report provides information relevant to the operations ofthe former Bathurst City and Evans Shire Councils for the financial year ending June 30, 2004.

All financial and reporting data for the Bathurst Regional Council (formed on 26 May 2004) is effective from 1 July 2004.

There are two parts to this report.

PART 1

Introduction & background 4

Bathurst City Council Annual Report 2003–2004 9

Evans Shire Council Annual Report 2003–2004 29

PART 2

General Purpose Financial Statements

Special Purpose Financial Statements

BATHURST REGIONAL COUNCIL

Civic Centre

158 Russell Street

BATHURST NSW 2795

Postal Address

Private Mail Bag 17

BATHURST NSW 2795

Telephone (02) 6333 6111

Fax (02) 6331 7211

Email [email protected]

Web www.bathurst.nsw.gov.au

Bathurst Regional Council holds its general meetings

on the third Wednesday of every month at 7.00 pm.

A MESSAGE FROM THE ADMINISTRATOR

Welcome to the first Annual Report for Bathurst Regional Council.

With the Proclamation as of 26 May 2004 this Annual Report provides the closing chapter on the proud and long histories of two very important Local Government authorities.

There is no doubt the State Government’s Structural Reform process over the last 12 months has been a difficult one for Councils across the State. It has been a challenging and interesting role overseeing the merger of the two separate organisations of Bathurst City and Evans Shire and planning a new structure in readiness for an elected Council.

I acknowledge the dedication and commitment of the members of each of the previous Councils and Council staff and thank them for their commitment to the community. This report in the main reflects those efforts. The work Councillors did, particularly in setting the 2004/05 Management Plans, provides a stable and clear direction for maintenance of existing levels of services and facilities to residents across the Region, over the next 12 months.

Change does not come without some anxiety, however, I am confident that due to the strong financial position and sound management of both former Councils, together we will be able to continue to improve and develop services and facilities for residents of the Bathurst Region.

As a larger organisation the Council can be a leader on broader issues that affect Regional NSW and seize opportunities to promote and develop new business and growth for the Region.

Initially residents of the former Evans Shire and Bathurst City Council areas have seen little change to the levels of services and facilities they are used to. However during the next few months Council, together with input from residents and former elected representatives, are coming together to develop a plan that best suits the needs of this new Council into the future.

Bathurst Regional Council has a new image. It has been created to send a clear message to people of the Bathurst Region and beyond, that this Council has a new direction and vision for the future.

There are significant challenges ahead – the creation of a new rating structure, developing a region-wide waste management plan and creating a new Local Environment Plan that will govern planning and development into the future – but progress does not happen without change and with that in mind the future is very bright for the Bathurst Region.

KATH KNOWLES

4 BATHURST REGIONAL COUNCIL | ANNUAL REPORT 2003–2004

FROM THE ACTINGGENERAL MANAGER

It has been both a challenge and a privilege to be appointed as the Acting General Manager of Bathurst Regional Council.

Overseeing the merger of the former Bathurst City and Evans Shire Councils has brought with it two levels of responsibility – to provide a seamless transition for residents and provide continuing levels of service to the community, while ensuring a smooth integration for staff from two different organisations into one new structure.

This Council is very fortunate to have the wisdom and experience of over 400 staff who bring with them the skills and knowledge to develop that new organisation.

This first Bathurst Regional Council Annual Report will show how the final results of the former Bathurst City and Evans Shire Councils have laid a solid foundation for the future of the Bathurst Region.

The End of Year Financial Statements present a Council with a secure financial future and the ability to build on the works of the former Councils to provide high quality services and facilities for all residents of the Region.

Under Administration we have had to put in place an interim management structure that is utilising the experience of the senior management teams of both former Councils and overseeing the creation of a new organisational structure to be approved by a new Council.

This process enables a review of existing levels of service delivery provided by the Council on a broad range of operations such as roads, waste, water supply, community, recreation and cultural facilities, to ensure we are meeting community needs. There will be change and with this some anxiety but also many new opportunities for the community.

I would like to thank the community for their continued patience during this time and all employees of the Bathurst Regional Council for their support, dedication and professionalism. I look forward to continuing to work together to develop a long and prosperous future for the Bathurst Region.

DAVID SHERLEY


A NEW BATHURST REGIONAL COUNCIL

Under the State Government’s Structural Reform Process, a new Council was formed in the Central West of NSW, to serve the residents of the Bathurst Region.

On 26 May 2004 the Councils of Bathurst City and Evans Shire were dissolved and residents of both areas brought together to create the new Bathurst Regional Council under a Proclamation by the NSW Minister for Local Government, Tony Kelly.

Bathurst Regional Council includes all the area formerly included in the Bathurst City Council, the Evans Shire (less 17.2%), and a small amount of land formerly included in Oberon Shire.

The new Council is continuing to restructure and reorganise as it prepares for a Local Government Election in 2005.

Under the Proclamation, the Minister for Local Government appointed former Bathurst City Council Mayor, Kath Knowles as the Administrator to act in the role of the Council and oversee policy direction until an election is held.

The Minister for Local Government appointed former Bathurst City Council Director of Corporate Services, David Sherley as Acting General Manager to oversee the day to day running of the new organisation. When a new Council is elected it will have the authority to appoint the General Manager as is the current practice under the Local Government Act.

The new Council has 400 staff who are responsible for a $100 million budget and who provide services and facilities for nearly 35,000 residents.

A NEW COUNCIL. . .A NEW LOOK

The creation of a new organisation called for a new image to capture the look and feel of the Bathurst Region.

The new symbol is a butterfly – a stylised motif of the Purple Copper Butterfly, a rare endangered species found only in the Central Tablelands.

The teal blue colour is a modern interpretation of the traditional royal blue of the City of Bathurst; while the lime green is inspired by the coloured sunlight that shimmers on the wings of the Copper Butterfly and represents the living energy of the natural environment of the region.

The slogan Full of Life represents the freedom of lifestyle and the diversity of experiences the Bathurst Region has to offer.

COUNCIL STRUCTURE

ADMINISTRATORKath Knowles

ACTING GENERAL MANAGERDavid Sherley

DIRECTOR CORPORATE SERVICESGraeme Taylor

DIRECTOR ENGINEERING SERVICESNeil Allen

DIRECTOR PLANNING & DEVELOPMENTDavid Shaw

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICERRobert Roach


A SNAPSHOT OF THE BATHURST REGION

Bathurst Regional Council serves village and rural communities from Hill End in the north to Trunkey Creek in the south, Sunny Corner in the east, Fitzgerald’s Mount in the west and everywhere in between with the services and facilities of the major regional city of Bathurst as the hub. The residents of the Bathurst Region enjoy a combination of lifestyle choices including quiet country life, quaint and historic village communities and the vibrant lifestyle of the City of Bathurst.

POPULATION

Approximate population (2001 Census)

Former Bathurst City Council population 29,858

Former Evans Shire Council population 5,148

Population of former Evans Shire Council transferred to Oberon Council 286

Total approximate population of Bathurst Regional Council 34,720

AREA

Area of former Bathurst City Council 239.97 sq km

Area of former Evans Shire Council 4309.74 sq km

Area of former Evans Shire Council transferred to Oberon Council 717.99 sq km

Area of former Evans Shire Council transferred to Lithgow Council 11.96 sq km

Area of former Oberon Council transferred to Bathurst Regional Council 2.14 sq km

Total area of Bathurst Regional Council 3821.90 sq km

ROADS

Length of roads maintained in the Region

Roads of former Evans Shire area 1,175 km

Roads of former Bathurst City area 310 km

Total length of roads for the Region 1,485 km

BUDGET

Total Council budget $100 million



BATHURST REGIONAL COUNCIL AREA

DubboMudgee

Orange

Cowra

Goulburn

BathurstSydney

Hill End

Sofala

Wattle Flat

Bathurst

Peel

Perthville

Wimbledon

Rockley

Triangle Flat

Trunkey Creek

AbercrombieCaves

Locksley

Glanmire

Limekilns

Sunny Corner

Meadow Flat

New LGA boundary

Main Roads

River

Railway

Reserves

Localities

LEGEND

Georges Plains

Freemantle

Duramana

BATHURST CITY COUNCIL ANNUAL REPORT 2003

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BATHURST CITY COUNCIL ANNUAL REPORT 2003

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10 BATHURST CITY COUNCIL | ANNUAL REPORT 2003–2004

COUNCIL STRUCTURE

1 JULY 2003 – 27 MARCH 2004

MAYORCr Ian Macintosh

COUNCILLORSDeputy Mayor: Cr Kath Knowles

Cr Gordon Crisp

Cr Paul Haysom

Cr Brad Hosemans

Cr Norm Nightingale

Cr Lisa Schofield

Cr Geoff Spring

Cr Kaye Stapleton

Cr Mary Tudor

Cr Les Wardman

Cr Paul Welsh

(Cr Mary Tudor resigned 31 August 2003)

27 MARCH 2004 – 26 MAY 2004

MAYORCr Kath Knowles

COUNCILLORSDeputy Mayor: Cr Norm Mann

Cr Bobby Bourke

Cr Gordon Crisp

Cr Paul Haysom

Cr Matt Irvine

Cr Janice McGilchrist

Cr Norm Nightingale

Cr Ian North

Cr Kaye Stapleton

Cr Les Wardman

Cr Paul Welsh

GENERAL MANAGERPhillip Perram (to 24 February 2004)

ACTING GENERAL MANAGERDavid Sherley (from 25 February 2004)

DIRECTOR CORPORATE SERVICESDavid Sherley (to 24 February 2004)

Robert Roach (from 25 February 2004)

DIRECTOR PLANNING & DEVELOPMENTDavid Shaw

CITY ENGINEERNeil Allen

CITY TREASURERRobert Roach

ANNUAL REPORT 2003–2004 | BATHURST CITY COUNCIL 11

CONTENTSProvisions of Local Government Act 1993 Section 428(2)

SUBJECT PAGE

Financial Accounts [s. 428(2)(a) & (b)] 12

State of the Environment Report [s. 428(2)(c)] 13

Condition of Public Works [s. 428(2)(d)] 14

Legal Expenses [s. 428(2)(e)] 15

Councillors’ Fees & Expenses [s. 428(2)(f)] 15

Senior Staff Remuneration [s: 428(2)(g) & cl. 31(1)(b)] 17

Contracts for Goods & Services [s. 428(2)(h)] 18

Bush Fire Control [s. 428(2)(i1)] 18

Cultural & Linguistic Programs [s. 428(2)(j)] 19

Private Works [s. 428(2)(k)] 19

Donations under Section 356 [s. 428(2)(l)] 20

Human Resources [s. 428(2)(m)] 20

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) [s. 428(2)(n)] 20

External Bodies Exercising Functions Delegated by Council [s. 428(2)(o)] 20

Controlling Interest in Companies [s. 428(2)(p)] 20

Partnerships, Cooperatives & Joint Ventures [s. 428(2)(q)] 21

Overseas Visits [s. 428(r) – cI.31(1)(a)] 21

Access & Equity [s. 428(r) – cI.31(1)(d)(i)] 21

National Competition Policy [s. 428(r) – cI.31(1)(d)(ii) to (ix)] 24

Rates & Charges Written Off [s. 428(r) – cI.15 Local Government (Rates & Charges) Regulation] 24

FOI Statistical Report [s. 428(r) – s. 68(6) Freedom of Information Act 1989] 25

Privacy Act [s. 33(3) NSW Privacy and Personal Information Protection Act] 27


Financial Accounts [s:428(2)(a) & (b)]

The Financial Accounts required pursuant to Section 413(1) of the Local Government Act, 1993, were prepared by Council and audited by Alan Morse & Co. The Statement of Financial Performance, Statement of Financial Position and Statement of Cash Flows, summarise Council’s financial outcomes for the year. Appended to the Annual Report is a copy of the audited Financial Statements.

Council’s Statement of Financial Performance disclosed a net surplus of $25.55 million from Ordinary Activities. This compared to $8.62 million in 2002/03.

The major factors that resulted in the achievements of this financial result were:

Annual rates and charges increased by $1,067,000 to $20,715,000 (2003 – $19,648,000) which reflects continuing strong property developments in the City whilst still complying with the State Government’s rate pegging policy

User Charges and Fees increased by $111,000 to $10,416,000 with the following observations noted:

■ Water supply charges decreased by $216,000 to $3,178,000 (2003 – $3,394,000) as a result of decreased consumption, acknowledging that water is a precious resource whilst drought conditions continue to apply

■ Child care fees increased by $57,000 to $427,000 principally through increased administration fees paid by parents

■ Planning and building fees increased to $1,247,000 (2003 – $979,000) reflecting the development boom that continues to be experienced in the City and the region in general

■ RTA – State Road contributions decreased to nil (2003 – $155,000)

■ Saleyards operating fees increased to $792,000 (2003 – $756,000) due to the continuing drought conditions and availability of feed resulting in the higher level of stock sales in the period

■ Fees from the Entertainment Centre $424,000 (2003 – $352,000) due to an increase in the number of entertainment events conducted during the year.

Interest received on investments increased by $426,000 to $2,637,000 due to higher levels of invested funds. Average rate of return for the year on investment funds was 5.3% (2003 – 5.4%)

Operating grants remained consistent with prior years with the Federal Government financial assistance grant increasing by $104,000 to $2,530,000

Capital works grants increased to $1,623,000 (2003 – $1,464,000). An increased Roads to Recovery grant of

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$581,000 (2003 – $222,184) was received and applied principally to the replacement of the Lagoon Road bridge and associated roadworks

Floodplain management grants increased to $770,000 (2003 – $600,000) which continue to be spent in the area of long term flood damage minimisation

Operating contributions and donations decreased by $209,000 to $686,000 as a result of a reduced contribution of $114,000 (2003 – $393,000) received from Charles Sturt University towards the Somerville Museum. Tourist Office fees of $221,000 (2003 – $203,000) reflected the continuing patronage of the home hire program associated with Council’s principal motor racing events

Capital contributions and donations increased to $7,863,000 (2003 – $4,595,000). Water supply contribution increased by $928,000 to $2,346,000 and sewer supply contributions increased by $1,275,000 to $3,267,000 due primarily to developer constructed water and sewer mains from subdivision projects completed in the year ended 30 June 2004, further emphasising the positive effect of strong property development activity in the City. Developer contributions for roadworks, drainage, community facilities and other activities increased by $1,409,000 to $2,114,000 reflecting the strong development work being carried out by developers in the City

Expenses from ordinary activities decreased by $1,995,000 to $40,457,000 including employee costs which increased by 6.5% (2003 – 7.0%). Factors contributing to increased employee costs include general award increases and an increase of $348,000 to $1,122,000 in workers’ compensation insurance premiums reflecting Council’s recent claims experience to which remedial strategies in occupational health and safety are being addressed for the future

Depreciation and amortisation has decreased to $8,957,000 (2003 – $9,045,000). Infrastructure assets depreciation totalled $5,921,000 (2003 – $5,720,000), which is a significant component of the annual depreciation charge

The profits realised on the sale of real estate held for resale increased to $4,262,000 (2003 – $2,202,000) based on sales of $4,664,000 (2003 – $2,617,000). Despite the fluctuation in the local real estate market that can occur from year to year which is influenced by factors generally outside Council’s control, the contribution to Council this year from this activity emphasises the continuing effective role Council is playing in contributing to the strategic development of the city and consequently, Council’s overall revenue base

The profit of $309,000 (2003 – $1,016,000 loss) occurring on the disposal of property, plant and equipment is due principally to the sale of the former Visitors Information Centre site.

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State of the Environment Report [s. 428(2)(c)]

Section 428(2)(a) of the Local Government Act, 1993, requires council to prepare a State of the Environment Report for inclusion in the Annual Report.

Evans Shire Council has participated in the preparation of a Regional State of the Environment Report to satisfy the reporting requirements. Seventeen local councils participated in the regional report that identifies environmental conditions of the Upper Macquarie Catchment. The Department of Local Government has advised that the report satisfies the statutory reporting requirements.

Bathurst City Council was granted an exemption from supplying the Annual State of the Environment Supplementary Report to the Department of Local Government for 2003/04 due to the impact of the May 2004 Amalgamation of Bathurst City and Evans Shire Councils.


Condition of Public Works [s: 428(2)(d)]

The following table summarises the estimated costs to bring Council’s public works assets to a satisfactory standard. It also provides a summary of estimated annual maintenance expenses and programmed maintenance works.

Asset class Asset category Est. cost Est. annual Program to satisfactory maintenance maintenance standard expense works $’000 $’000 $’000

Public Buildings Clubhouses – 52 51 Cottages 50 30 29 Grandstands 70 54 53 Halls 20 44 43 Kiosks – 7 7 Sheds – 45 44 Toilets & Ablutions – 55 54 Other Buildings 175 729 711 Subtotal 315 1,017 992

Public Roads Sealed Roads 1,270 1,225 1,195 Unsealed Roads – – – Bridges 21 19 19 Footpaths 227 198 193 Kerb & Gutter 30 29 28 Road Furniture 160 156 152 Subtotal 1,708 1,627 1,587

Water Treatment Plants – 177 173 Reservoirs – 75 73 Dams 10,000 42 41 Hydrants/Valves/Pipelines – 496 484 Pump Stations – 19 19 Subtotal 10,000 810 790

Sewerage Pump Stations – 119 116 Treatment Works – 195 190 Sewer Pipes/Mains etc – 97 95 Subtotal – 411 401

Drainage Works All Drainage Structures including culverts – 189 184 Subtotal – 189 184

Other Assets Land – – – Aerodrome – 138 135 Amenities & Sundries – 553 568 Works Plant – 955 980 Sundry Plant – 110 107 Subtotal – 1756 1790

Total 12,023 5,809 5,744


Legal Expenses [s: 428(2)(e)]

Matter Other Party Cost Status

Planning Matters $11,000 Advice received and acted upon

Administrative Matters Chifley Engine Recovery – Ongoing Discussions

Visitors Information Centre – Matter Complete

ATM Fee Introduction – Ongoing Discussion

Rate Recovery – Ongoing discussion

Total Admin Legal Costs $139,000

Total Legal Costs $150,000

Councillors’ Fees & Expenses [s: 428(2)(f)]

Money expended during the 2003/04 financial year on:

Mayoral Fees $ 32,000Councillors’ Fees $137,000Councillors’ Expenses $ 54,000

Council has in place the following policy to provide guidelines for the payment of expenses and provision of facilities for Councillors.

ANNUAL ALLOWANCEPursuant to Section 248 of the Local Government Act, 1993, an annual allowance will be paid to each Councillor in twelve instalments (monthly in arrears). In addition to this, the Mayor will be paid an annual fee in accordance with Section 249 of the Act, to be paid in twelve instalments (monthly arrears). The amount to be paid will be as adopted in Council’s Management Plan for that year.

ACCESS AND USE OF FACILITIES/EQUIPMENTCouncillors are to be provided with access and use of the following:

(i) A room suitably furnished for use by all Councillors

(ii) Access to a motor vehicle if available, or alternative arrangement (e.g. hire car), for the purposes of attending official functions or meetings outside the City (see also Clause 8)

(iii) Use of council photocopiers, telephones, computers (and associated equipment) and fax machine in the course of the Councillor undertaking official business.

In addition to those facilities/equipment listed above, the Mayor will be provided with the use of:

(i) An office suitably furnished

(ii) Mayoral robes and chains

(iii) A corporate credit card to meet expenses connected with the entertainment of guests of the city


PROVISION OF EQUIPMENTEach Councillor will be provided with the following:

(i) Business cards(ii) Councillor letterhead(iii) Name badge.

Each Councillor has use of:

(i) A laptop computer and associated equipment and fax machine with installation (at the principal place of residence), rental, call and stationery costs to be met by Council

(ii) A document shredder.

In addition to the equipment listed above the Mayor will be provided with the following:

(i) A mobile phone with rental and all charges to be met by Council

(ii) A motor vehicle (including private use) on the basis that all costs are met by the Council. NOTE–that during periods of ‘leave of absence’ of the Mayor, the vehicle will be made available to the Deputy Mayor under the same terms and conditions.

The equipment mentioned above remains the property of Council and is to be returned to Council upon the Mayor or the Councillor ceasing to hold office.

ADMINISTRATIVE SUPPORTCouncillors will be provided with secretarial support in relation to official correspondence.

INSURANCECouncil will provide appropriate insurance for Councillors including insurance against personal injury whether fatal or not, arising out of, or in the course of carrying out duties, or the performance by such Councillor at functions, in his/her capacity as a member of Council.

SUSTENANCE/MEALSCouncillors are entitled to the provision of meal and/or refreshment in conjunction with the Committee/Council meeting or at any official ceremony authorised by Council or the Mayor, or in carrying out their Councillors’ responsibilities including meetings with residents, ratepayers or guests of the City.

LEGALIn the event that indemnity is not granted under the existing Councillors and Officers liability policy in relation to:

(a) any enquiry, investigation or hearing into the conduct of a Councillor :

(i) by the Independent Commission Against Corruption

(ii) by the Office of the Ombudsman

(iii) by the Administrative Decisions Tribunal

(iv) by the Department of Local Government and Cooperatives

(v) by the Police

(vi) by the Director of Public Prosecutions

(vii) by the Local Government Pecuniary Interest Tribunal or

(viii) pursuant to FOI Legislation or

(b) legal proceedings against a Councillor :

Council shall reimburse such Councillor on a solicitor/client basis for all legal and associated expenses properly and reasonably incurred having regard to the nature of the enquiry, investigation, hearing or proceedings, provided that:

(i) the enquiry, investigation, hearing or proceedings relate to conduct arising out of or in connection with a Councillor’s performance of his or her civic duty or the exercise of his or her functions as a Councillor.

(ii) the enquiry, investigation, hearing or proceedings have been finalised and have resulted in a finding, in the opinion of the Council, substantially favourable to the Councillor

(iii) the amount of any such reimbursement shall be limited to the amount of moneys that are not otherwise recoverable by a Councillor on any other basis

(iv) the Council authorises the reimbursement by resolution.

EXPENSES ALLOWANCECouncillors are paid their daily allowance and are responsible for all costs incurred. Council does not become involved and pays the allowance direct to the Councillor. Any deposit on accommodation is to be paid direct by the Councillor or if paid by Council a sundry debtor account is raised and must be paid by the Councillor.

Council will:

(a) reimburse claims for expenses incurred by Councillors in relation to discharging the functions of civic office for actual costs or a daily allowance as follows:

Where an overnight stay is not involved $53.00

Where an overnight stay is involved in Sydneyand capital cities $200.00

Where an overnight stay is involved in other centres $145.00


In addition, Council will pay the travelling expenses of Councillors to and from the conference/meeting etc.

(b) where a Councillor provides his/her own motor vehicle for transport in relation to discharging the functions of civic office, reimbursement of costs will be made on a per kilometre basis at the rates specified under Clause 4 of the Local Government (State) Award

(c) in relation to discharging the functions of civic office, the following facilities will be provided:

– Mayoral Office

– Councillors’ meeting room

– Provision of a meal/refreshments in conjunction with the Committee/Council meeting.

CHILDCARECouncil will reimburse Councillors for the cost of child care services incurred while on authorised Council business. The amount of reimbursement will be the actual cost incurred, with a maximum of $5.00 per hour per child applying. The maximum amount to be reimbursed is to be indexed to the official CPI (effective from 17 February 1994).

CORPORATE CREDIT CARDUpon request, Councillors are provided with a corporate credit card with a credit limit of $1,000. Use must be for Council business only and in accordance with the policy for Councillor’s expenses.

Senior Staff Remuneration [s: 428(2)(g) & cl. 31(1)(b)]

Five senior staff are employed by Council: the General Manager, Director of Corporate Services, City Engineer, City Treasurer and Director of Planning and Development.

The total expenditure for 2003/04 in respect of employment of these senior staff, including salary, motor vehicle expenses, package benefits, fringe benefits tax, superannuation and provision for leave entitlements was $757,446.

The annual remuneration paid to each senior staff member for year ended 30 June 2004 was as follows (this varies to the gross figure shown above, due to timing of the draw down of entitlement in some cases).

General Manager $185,000

Director of Corporate Services $152,968

City Engineer $144,486

Director, Planning and Development $137,680

City Treasurer $137,314


Contracts for Goods & Services [s: 428(2)(h)]

During the year Council awarded the following contracts and tenders which require disclosure pursuant to Section 428 (2)(h).

Name of Contractor Nature of Goods or Services Supplied Amount of Contract $

Case Equipment Sales Skidsteer loader 122,030

Austin Australia Pty Ltd Redevelopment of Mt Panorama Pits and Paddock 10,000,000

Hines Constructions Pty Ltd Recycling building at Waste Management Centre 106,771

Graham Constructions Pty Ltd Construction of Industrial Park Stage 8 1,469,643

Interflow Pty Ltd Relining of sewer mains 237,194

Hines Construction Pty Ltd Kelso Community Centre construction 371,576

Glenray Industries Pty Ltd Mowing maintenance 145,615

K & V Riley Pty Ltd Management of Bathurst Olympic Pool 152,812

Donnelly Mining and CivilContracting Pty Ltd Waste Management Centre water main construction 217,657

Casbee Pty Ltd Residential subdivision Avonlea Stage 1 780,605

Donnelly Mining and Civil Contracting Pty Ltd Water supply, Ben Chifley Dam 478,844

Tech-Treat Pty Ltd Wastewater treatment system – Ben Chifley Dam 413,821

Komatsu Australia Pty Ltd Backhoe loader 133,980

Carter Bros Engineering Pty Ltd Carillon maintenance works 167,882

Beckhaus Civil Engineering Pty Ltd Jordan Creek drainage works 120,560

Rosconi Bros Tractors 183,792

Graham Constructions Residential subdivision Avonlea 3 318,575

West Orange Motors Garbage compactor truck 194,245

Hines Constructions Extensions to National Motor Racing Museum 684,405

Emoleum Sprayed bituminous surfacing 866,910

West Orange Motors Crewcab truck 114,721

Kellogg Brown and Root Pty Ltd Project Management, Mt Panorama Redevelopment 358,000

Bush Fire Control [s: 428(2)(i1)]

Bush fire services within Bathurst City are controlled and operated by Evans Shire Council. Financial assistance is provided to Evans Shire Council for this service and indirect financial contributions are made to brigades within Council’s area through rent and service payments on premises.

Council regularly slashes reserves, parks and other vacant Council land as resources permit. Notices were issued to occupiers and land owners where appropriate to reduce fire hazards. Council is represented on the local Bush fire Management Committee.


Cultural & Linguistic Programs [s: 428(2)(j)]

Council is presently developing a community and recreation centre and recreation facilities in East Kelso, a multicultural residential area within Bathurst, as part of an extensive community development process. Kelso residents have been invited to participate in planning the facilities and advising on the services and activities to be made available at the Centre. Residents will be invited to participate in a variety of community, cultural, sporting and arts programs to be offered from the Centre in response to their needs

Council’s Sister City Relationship with Ohkuma in Japan continues. An annual scholarship is awarded to two young people to live with host families in Ohkuma for one month. During 2003, this scholarship was awarded to two Bathurst secondary school students

Council hosted a meeting of the Community Relations Commission’s Central West Regional Advisory Council and community consultations by the Commissioner

Council employed a cultural worker in partnership with the Western Sydney Casual Ethnic Workers Pool and conducted regular multicultural activities at its long day care and family day care services

Council declared Bathurst a City of Welcome for Refugees in February 2004

Council hosted regular citizenship ceremonies for approximately 100 new Australian citizens in 2003/04

Council is implementing the DIMIA Telephone Translating and Interpreting Service and will promote the availability of this service in 2005

Booklink, a literacy program developed by Bathurst Library and sponsored by the local Angus and Robertson book shop and the CWA is a reading program for children and youth that encourages them to read

Pre school and holiday programs provide storytelling and reading challenges at the Library

Children’s Writing program encouraging children to write and publicise their work in a book

Promotion of the State Library of NSW service providing Community Language material for individual readers

Bathurst Library after school and holiday arts programs for children; including increased outreach programs involving local high schools

Conduct of workshop programs by both the Art Gallery and Library service areas targeting specific community groups e.g. NAIDOC Week workshops targeted local schools and indigenous students

Facilitated art exhibitions promoting local artists including Chris McGirr : In a Dark Wood and Time Exposures: the photography of Fred Smith

Facilitated major community art exhibition: 2003 Bathurst Pet Portrait Prize. The exhibition included female, indigenous and non-English speaking artists presenting their works

Organised and sponsored Artist in Residency programs at Hill End to assist local, national and international artists

Coordinated via Youth Council a Youth Week Extravaganza at the Library/Art Gallery complex

Bathurst Family Day Care Scheme incorporate a vast array of multicultural experiences for children in care and have registered carers from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds

Scallywags Long Day Care Centre programs multicultural experiences for children in accordance with quality consumer principles. This year the children were involved in a special NAIDOC Week activity to complete an artwork with a Wiradjuri artist

Bathurst City Youth Council has representatives from the Bathurst International Friendship Group providing input from local young people from diverse cultural and linguistic backgrounds.

Private Works [s: 428(2)(k)]

There were no works carried out during the year in accordance with Section 67. Section 67 concerns work carried out on private land which has been fully or partly subsidised by the Council.

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Donations Under Section 356 [s: 428(2)(l)]

During the year 2003/04 Council donated a total of $101,466 under Section 356 to a range of community groups.

General $16,013

Bathurst Memorial Entertainment Centre $50,515

Committed $34,938

Human Resources [s: 428(2)(m)]

Council undertook the following human resource activities during 2003/04.

Continuation of extensive organisation-wide training

Training offered included manual handling, occupational health and safety awareness, induction training, computer/IT courses, traffic training, risk management, ethical behaviour, writing position descriptions

Staff attendance at all training courses totalled 1066 sessions

Occupational Health and Safety Policies reviewed

Extensive review of safe working methods and workplace risk assessments

Implementation of new salary and performance appraisal system from 1 January 2004

40 students placed in work experience

Annual update of staff information included information on ethnic background of staff.

OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH & SAFETYMajor OH&S achievements include:

A new incident reporting form was developed and rolled out. The new form is for use by staff, volunteers and contractors so all incidents can be reported

A draft volunteer policy was completed. Council has approximately 400 volunteers at any given time, the majority of whom work in the cultural areas of Council such as the Art Gallery, the Entertainment Centre and the Australian Fossil and Mineral Museum

Hat and UV policy program has been undertaken to ensure compliance with state and national standards

A total of 80 incidents were reported during the year. Of these 27 resulted in workers compensation claims being lodged and 17 resulted in lost time to the Council. The most frequently reported injury was sprains and strains which accounted for 29% of all injuries reported.

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Equal Employment Opportunity [s: 428(2)(n)]

EMPLOYEE ASSISTANCE PROGRAMCouncil continued to provide access to free, confidential, professional counselling services to staff and their family members during the year through provision of the Employee Assistance Program (EAP).

During the period to 31 May 2004, the Employee Assistance Program was accessed 32 times.

EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITYBathurst City Council remained committed to the principles of Equal Employment Opportunity during 2003/04. The Human Resources Section provided information on Council’s harassment and grievance procedures to new staff who attended the induction program through the year.

The EEO Management Plan identifies objectives Council wishes to achieve in 10 key areas to ensure that it is acting under EEO principles – Policies and Procedures, Communication and Awareness Raising, Data Collection, Recruitment and Selection, Training and Development, Promotion/Transfer and Higher Duties, Conditions of Service, Harassment, EEO Target Groups and Implementation/Evaluation. The revised plan outlines strategies to facilitate achievement of each objective, assigns responsibility to Council officer/s for each strategy, and identifies Key Performance Indicators to allow assessment of whether the objectives are being achieved.

External Bodies Exercising Functions Delegated by Council [s: 428(2)(o)]

During the 2003/04 financial year, the following external bodies exercised functions delegated by Council:

Eglinton Hall and Park Committee – Management of the Eglinton Hall and Park

County Councils operating with delegates from Bathurst City Council including Upper Macquarie County Council.

Raglan Hall & Park Committee – Management of Raglan Hall and Park

CENTROC Weight of Loads Group.

Controlling Interest in Companies [s: 428(2)(p)]

Council had no controlling interest in any companies during the year.

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Partnerships, Cooperatives & Joint Ventures [s: 428(2)(q)]

International Management Group of America Pty Ltd – organisation, management and conduct of a motor racing event at Mount Panorama, (V8 Supercars)

Central Region Organisation of Councils (CENTROC) – reviewing joint purchasing arrangements, joint training procurement and film and television office proposal

Country Mayors Association

Sydney Road Links – Secretariat

Tri-Government Blue Mountains Access Lobby Group – Secretariat and technical support

Cobb and Co NSW – Secretariat

The Somerville Collection – Council is a member of this company limited by guarantee with the Australian Museum, Charles Sturt University, Mr Warren Somerville and the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy. The Australian Fossil and Mineral Museum housing the Somerville Collection opened to the public to widespread acclaim in July 2004.

Tablelands Area Road Safety Program

NETWASTE

drumMUSTER.

Overseas Visits [s. 428(2)(r) – cl. 31(1)(a)]

Council maintains a sister city relationship with the town of Ohkuma in Japan. Councillor Kaye Stapleton represented Council on a visit to our Sister City of Ohkuma in Japan in November 2003. The visit helps to maintain the relationship between the two communities, which has significant cultural/community and economic benefits.

Council was also represented during the year by two school students who were awardees of a scholarship for a study tour to Ohkuma in September 2003.

Access & Equity [s. 428(2)(r) – cl. 31(1)(d)(i)]

From the year ending 30 June 1999, Council was required to report on its performance in relation to access and equity activities to meet residents’ needs outlined in the Council’s Management Plan. During the year 2003/04 Council continued to implement the recommendations of Council’s adopted community/social plan.

To promote access/equity to Council’s services, the following specific actions were implemented amongst other things:

Subsidised usage of Council facilities: Council provides subsidised fees for the usage of Council facilities by various community groups on a merit basis

Children’s Services: Council continued to make available positions within Vacation Care program for children with disabilities. This was done generally in conjunction with the Disability Advocacy Service (DIAS). Council provides the Vacation Care service in Bathurst to ensure access to people to Childcare which is not provided by the private sector. Council also auspices a Family Day Care service for Bathurst and surrounding regions

Financial Support to Community Groups: Council provides direct financial/infrastructure support to many groups to ensure their continued viability. Many of these community/voluntary groups are integral service suppliers to the community. These groups include women’s health groups, pre-schools, community transport groups, senior citizens, youth centres and marginalised groups. Without Council support, in many

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cases, the service(s) would be ceased or drastically scaled down. Council calls annually for submissions from community groups who wish to seek assistance from Council

Council supported the work of the Local Access Committee.

With assistance from the NSW Premiers Department, Bathurst City Council is constructing a multi-purpose community and recreational centre for residents in the Kelso area, east of the city, which has a significant indigenous population. The project has been characterised by a uniquely collaborate approach with local community groups.

COUNCIL MEETINGS/DISCUSSION FORUMSCouncil meets on the third Wednesday of the month at 7.00 pm in the Council Chamber. There is a 15 minute question time for the public from 7.00 pm to 7.15 pm.

On the first Wednesday of each month, Council holds a discussion forum on matters of interest to the community. This provides a platform where the community can readily access the decision-makers of the Council. The topics included

Bathurst Cemetery – Proposal to fence perimeter

User pays sewer pricing.

Council held its Council Meetings with the Public sessions twice a month. The following community groups and organisations met with Council to discuss issues of relevance:

Mercy and Justice CentreRefugee Support GroupCentral Economic ZoneCombined Bicycle Users GroupNSW Fire BrigadeWest Bathurst PreschoolHamilton Street Early Learning CentreCSU – School of Information TechnologyCentral West Area Consultative CommitteeSuperintendent Wookey, Chifley Local Area Commander – Police Local Government Week Public Speaking Competition WinnersMr Steve Todd, Principal, MacKillop CollegeYouth Council – Entertainment Working PartyCSU – School of Teacher EducationNational Trust of Australia – Bathurst BranchBathurst After School CareBathurst Economic Development StrategyExplorer Country TourismMercy AssociatesCountry WeekIRIS Research

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Gerard Martin MPAustralian Bicycle Promotion FundMacquarie Philharmonia OrchestraBathurst Golf Club

COUNCIL BUSINESS PAPERSCouncil business papers can be read before the meeting at the Council foyer and the Library. Copies may be obtained from the General Manager’s office. Council continued the electronic format for its Business Paper and it is now available on Council’s web page www.bathurst.nsw.gov.au

MANAGEMENT PLANCouncil has a five year financial plan which establishes the framework for expenditure and services for the future. The plan is reviewed and updated every financial year. Before the plan is adopted each June, it is placed on public exhibition for a period of 28 days, comments are encouraged and welcomed.

LIBRARY FACILITIESCouncil provides a library van which visits housebound members and outlying villages which surround Bathurst in the Shire of Evans. The library also holds large print books in its collection. Facilities, including the internet, are available and this allows access to new technologies by all members of the community.

COMMITTEE MEMBERSHIP

Council operates a number of committees in which community members actively participate and are often voting members. This assists groups to access resources provided by Council and promotes close involvement in the decision-making processes of local government.

Council, during the year, reviewed its governance process. As part of this review, Council continued to nominate delegates to community organisations to assist in meeting community needs.

The following groups have delegates/duty delegates appointed:

Arts OutWestAustralian Airport Owners AssociationAustralian Local Government Women’s AssociationBathurst Access Committee Bathurst Airport Users’ GroupBathurst and Evans Bush Fire Management CommitteeBathurst Arts CouncilBathurst Chamber of CommerceBathurst City RSL BandBathurst City Youth Council


Bathurst Correctional Complex Community Consultative CommitteeBathurst District Sport and Recreation CouncilBathurst District Historical SocietyBathurst Education Advancement GroupBathurst Information and Neighbourhood CentreBathurst Interagency CommitteeBathurst Senior CitizensBathurst Regional Art Gallery Society (BRAGS)Ben Chifley Dam Catchment Steering CommitteeBoundary Road Nature Reserve Landcare GroupCarillon Working PartyCentral Ranges Food and WineCentral NSW TourismCentral West Group Apprentices SchemeCentral West Women’s Health CentreCENTROCCobb & Co NSWCommunity Drug Action Team (CDAT)Community Support & Development Expenditure Scheme (CDSE)Country Mayors AssociationCountry Public Libraries AssociationCrago Mill CommitteeCrime Prevention CommitteeDubbo Clinical School’s Community Advisory BoardEglinton Hall & Park CommitteeFloodplain Management AuthoritiesGreening BathurstHealth Watch CommitteeInternational Friendship GroupKelso Parish & Community CentreLocal Emergency Management CommitteeMacquarie Rivercare Group National Trust of Australia – Bathurst BranchSaleyards Working PartySydney Road Links CommitteeTri-Government blue Mountains Access Lobby GroupUpper Macquarie County CouncilWater & Sewerage Augmentation Steering CommitteeWest Bathurst Community House Management CommitteeWestern Regional Access Committee

PRESS ANNOUNCEMENTSCouncil actively promotes its services and activities to residents and other users of all the various facilities and amenities in the City. It does this by way of an announcement schedule on two radio stations in Bathurst, Radio 2BS, B-Rock and Radio 2MCE-FM. The announcements take the form of notices of events, rate payments, Council activities and services.

A column penned by the Mayor appears every week in the local daily newspaper, the Western Advocate. Council also runs a weekly Public Notices section in the local paper containing matters of relevance to the community. A Council newsletter is sent out quarterly with the rate notices.


Council also has a delegate on the Local Access Committee to assist in the provision of adequate access to services for residents and other users.

Council supports Arts OutWest which promotes and develops art and community cultural development in the region.

National Competition Policy[s. 428(2)(r) – cl. 31(1)(d)(ii) to (ix)]

Council has identified its water, sewer and waste activities as Category 1 business activities. Council has not identified any Category 2 businesses. A summary has been prepared in accordance with the NSW Government Policy Statement ‘Application of National Competition Policy to Local Government’ and the Department of Local Government guidelines ‘Pricing & Costing for Council Businesses: A Guide to Competitive Neutrality’.

The summary is provided in the Statement of Financial Policy and Statement of Financial Performance given in the attached Special Purpose Financial Statement.

The following progress has been made on the implementation of competitive neutrality principles:

Category 1 businesses have:

been identified

had strategic Business Plans prepared

been separated within Council’s reporting system

had competitive neutrality pricing requirements applied, including calculation of tax equivalents, debt guarantee fees and appropriate rates of return on capital.

The complaints handling system caters for recording competitive neutrality complaints. Council’s system caters for the publication of complaints via the annual report. The complaints system is publicised through Council documents such as the annual report. During the 2003/04 year, no such complaints were received.

Council has adopted a policy of actual cost when calculating Trade Waste Charges.

Rates & Charges Written Off [s. 428(r) – cI.15 Local Government (Rates & Charges) Regulation]

During the year Council abandoned $156,847.53 in rates and charges (including postponed rates).

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FOI Statistical Report [s. 428(r) – s. 68(6) Freedom of Information Act 1989]

SECTION ANumbers of new FOI requests – Information relating to numbers of new FOI requests received, those processed and those incomplete from the previous period.

FOI Requests Personal Other Total

A1 New (inc. transferred in) 3 3 6A2 Brought forward – 1 1A3 Total to be processed 3 4 7A4 Completed – 3 3A5 Transferred out – – –A6 Withdrawn – – –A7 Total processed – 3 3A8 Unfinished (carried forward) 3 1 4

SECTION BWhat happened to completed requests? (Completed requests are those on Line A4)

Result of FOI Request Personal Other

B1 Granted in Full – – B2 Granted in Part – 3 B3 Refused – – B4 Deferred – – B5 Completed* – 3

*Note: The figures on line B5 should be the same as the corresponding ones on A4

SECTION CMinisterial Certificates – number issued during the period.

C1 Ministerial certificates issued Nil

SECTION DFormal consultations – number of requests requiring consultations (issued) and total number of formal consultation(s) for the period.

D1 No. of requests requiring Formal consultation(s) Nil

SECTION EAmendment of personal records – number of requests for amendment processed during the period.

Result of Amendment Request Total

E1 Result of amendment – agreed NilE2 Result of amendment – refused NilE3 Total Nil


SECTION FNotation of personal records – number of requests for notation processed during the period.

F3 Number of requests for notation Nil

SECTION GFOI requests granted in part or refused.

Basis of disallowing access – number of times each reason cited in relation to completed requests which were granted in part or refused.

Basis of disallowing or restricting access Personal Other

G1 Section 19 (applic. incomplete, wrongly directed) – –G2 Section 22 (deposit not paid) – –G3 Section 25(1)(a) (diversion of resources) – –G4 Section 25(1)(a) (exempt) – 3G5 Section 25(1)(b),(c),(d) (otherwise available) – –G6 Section 28(10(b), (documents not held) – –G7 Section 24(2) – deemed refused, over 21 days – –G8 Section 31(4) (released to Medical Practitioner) – –G9 Totals Nil 3

SECTION HCosts and fees of requests processed during the period (i.e. those included in lines A4, A5 and A6). Please DO NOT include costs and fees for unfinished requests (i.e. those requests included in Line A8).

Assessed FOI Fees Costs Received

H1 All completed requests 190 150

SECTION I

Discounts allowed – number of FOI requests processed during the period* where discounts were allowed.

Type of Discount Allowed Personal Other

11 Public interest – –12 Financial hardship – Pensioner/Child – –13 Financial hardship – Non profit organisation – –14 Totals Nil Nil 15 Significant correction of personal records – –

*Note: Except for item 15. Items 11, 12, 13 and 14 refer to requests

processed as recorded in A7.

For 15, however, show the actual number of requests for correction of

records processed during the period.

SECTION JDays to process – number of completed requests (A4) by calendar days (elapsed time) taken to process.

Elapsed Time Personal Other

J1 0 – 21 days – –J2 22 – 35 days – 3J3 Over 35 days – –J4 Totals N/A 3

SECTION KProcessing time – number of completed requests (A4) by hours taken to process.

Processing Hours Personal Other

K1 0 – 10 hours – 3K2 11 – 20 hours – –K3 21 – 40 hours – –K4 Over 40 hours – –K5 Totals N/A 3


SECTION LReviews and Appeals – number finalised during the period.

L1 No. of internal reviews finalised NilL2 No. of Ombudsman reviews finalised NilL3 No. of Administrative Tribunal appeals finalised Nil

*Note: Relates to whether or not the original agency decision was upheld or varied by the internal review.

Details of Internal Review Results – in relation to internal reviews finalised during the period.

Basis of Internal Review Personal Other

Grounds on which internal review requested Upheld Varied Upheld Varied

L4 Access refused – – – –L5 Deferred – – – –L6 Exempt matter – – – –L7 Unreasonable charges – – – –L8 Charge unreasonably incurred – – – –L9 Amendment refused – – – –L10 Totals – – – –

Privacy Act [s. 33(3) NSW Privacy and Personal Information Protection Act]

(a) Statement of the action taken by the Council in complying with the requirements of the PPIPA Act.

Council has adopted the Model Privacy Management Plan developed by the Department of Local Government. Additionally, Council is subject to the Privacy Code of Practice for Local Government. Council’s investigative functions are subject to a further privacy code of practice entitled How enforcement and investigative agencies access personal information contained in public registers, gazetted on 28 December 2001.

b) Statistical details of any review conducted on behalf of the Council under Part 5.

No review was requested during the 2003/04 year.

EVANS SHIRE COUNCIL ANNUAL REPORT 2003

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EVANS SHIRE COUNCIL ANNUAL REPORT 2003

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30 EVANS SHIRE COUNCIL | ANNUAL REPORT 2003–2004

COUNCIL STRUCTURE

1 JULY 2003 – 27 MARCH 2004

MAYORCr John Byrne

COUNCILLORSDeputy Mayor: Cr Bill McKenzie

Cr Chris Clark

Cr Pam Graham

Cr John Howarth

Cr Dennis Lane

Cr Elaine McArthur

Cr Norm Mann

Cr Hugh Pearce

Cr Peter Stark

Cr Paul Toole

Cr Jill Williams

27 MARCH 2004 – 26 MAY 2004

MAYORCr John Byrne

COUNCILLORSDeputy Mayor: Cr Bill McKenzie

Cr Chris Clark

Cr Bill Gates

Cr Pam Graham

Cr Ken Hamer

Cr John Howarth

Cr Elaine McArthur

Cr Hugh Pearce

Cr Peter Stark

Cr Paul Toole

Cr Jill Williams

FORMER EVANS SHIRE COUNCIL INFORMATION

Council Headquarters

7 Lee Street

Kelso NSW 2795

Postal Address:

PO Box 703

Bathurst NSW 2795

Telephone (02) 6331 4200

Fax (02) 6331 2121

Email [email protected]

SHIRE STATISTICSPopulation 5,200

Area 428,399 ha

Land Value (30.6.02) $348,917,620

Total Number of Assessments 3,743

Total Length of Roads 1,175 km

Sealed Roads 366 km

Gravel Roads 617 km

State Roads 112 km

Regional Roads 80 km

State Electorate Bathurst

Federal Electorates Calare & Macquarie

GENERAL MANAGERMr Graeme Taylor

DIRECTOR OF CORPORATE SERVICESMr Brian Dwyer

DIRECTOR OF ENGINEERINGMr David Swan

DIRECTOR OF ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICESMr Brian Jones

ANNUAL REPORT 2003–2004 | EVANS SHIRE COUNCIL 31

CONTENTSProvisions of Local Government Act 1993 Section 428(2)

SUBJECT PAGE

Assets Acquired by Council during 2003/04 [s. 428(2)(a)] 32

Performance in Terms of Principal Activities [s. 428(2)(b)] 32

State of the Environment Report [s. 428(2)(c)] 35

Condition of Public Works [s. 428(2)(d)] 36

Legal Proceedings [s. 428(2)(e)] 40

Councillors’ Fees and Expenses [s. 428(2)(f)] 40

Senior Staff Remuneration [s. 428(2)(g)] 40

Contracts for Goods & Services [s. 428(2)(h)] 40

Environmental Programs [s. 428(2)(i1)] 41

Multicultural Services [s. 428(2)(j)] 41

Private Works [s. 428(2)(k)] 41

Contributions/Donations [s. 428(2)(l)] 42

Human Resource Activities [s. 428(2)(m)] 42

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) [s. 428(2)(n)] 43

External Bodies Exercising Council Functions [s. 428(2)(o)] 43

Controlling Interest in Companies [s. 428(2)(p)] 43

Partnerships, Cooperatives & Joint Ventures [s. 428(2)(q)] 44

Rates and Charges Written Off [s. 428(r) – cI. 2] 44

Overseas Visits [s. 428(r) – cI. 7A(a)] 44

Total Remuneration for Senior Staff [s. 428(r) – cI. 7A(b)] 44

Activities for Children [s. 428(r) – cI. 7A(c)] 44

Access and Equity of Services to All [s. 428(r) – cI. 7A(d)] 45

Category 1 & 2 Business Activities [s. 428(r) – cI. 20] 45

Principals of Competitive Neutrality [s. 428(r) – cI. 7A(2)] 46

FOI Statistical Report [s. 428(r) – s. 68(6) Freedom of Information Act 1989] 46

Privacy Act [s. 33(3) NSW Privacy & Personal Information Protection Act] 46


Assets Acquired by Council during 2003/04 [s. 428(2)(a)]

ASSET MOVEMENTS

Functions/Activities Purchases during Held as at 2003/04 30/6/04 $,000 $,000

Administration 810 3,329Public Order & Safety 187 1,236Health 0 0Community Services & Education 0 0Housing & Community Amenities 60 256Water Supplies 0 34Sewerage Supplies 0 0Recreation & Culture 0 552Mining, Manufacture & Construction 0 0Transport & Communication 2,098 74,048Economic Affairs 0 56

Total 3,155 79,511

ADMINISTRATIONAdministration

Human Resources

Financial Services

Information Technology

Provision of information to the public.

Some of the main tasks required under the Administration function of Council are as follows:

Ensure all statutory and other financial returns are completed and lodged by the due date

Ensure Council’s statutory responsibilities in relation to the levying and collection of rates are met

Continue current financial management direction and strategic long term planning

Provide financial information and advice to Council

Ensure that Council’s 2003/04 Annual Management Plan is considered in order to allow adoption of the Management Plan by the due date

Promote the shire interests through participation in Council bodies

Actively pursue regional resource sharing with neighbouring councils to provide cost benefits to Council in provision of services

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Performance in Terms of Principal Activities[s. 428(2)(b)]

GOVERNANCEThe Governance function of Council aims to provide open accountable local government and this is achieved through the following activities:

Provision of information to Council to allow decisions at Council Meetings

Provision of administrative support to Council committee meetings

Responding to Councillor enquiries related to the administration function

Updating Council policy register in a timely manner

Allow community participation through community meetings

Provide information to public in a timely and effective manner.

The performance measures set in the Management Plan were all achieved.

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Minimise the risks associated with the Administration function of Council

Implement system of information technology capable of providing information that is relevant and timely

Ensure all staff are aware of their rights and responsibilities in relation to Occupational Health & Safety (OH&S) and risk management.


PUBLIC ORDER & SAFETYThis activity includes:

Fire Protection – the provision and maintenance of fire fighting equipment, training of personnel and budgetary control

Animal Control – the control of straying animals, cats and dogs involving impounding, recording of microchip details and disposal

Emergency Services – provision of assistance to State Emergency Service Units to assist them to provide services during emergencies such as flood, road closures and motor vehicle accidents.

Some of the main tasks required under the Public Order and Safety function of Council are as follows:

Protection of the community and environment through the provision of a well equipped fire-fighting organisation

Protection of community order, safety and health

Ensure companion animals legislation is complied with by Council and members of the public

Assist the community to respond to emergencies other than fire.


HEALTHHealth Services include:

Protection and enhancement of Environmental Health

Protection of food prepared for sale to the public

Private swimming pool safety

Control of Noxious Plants – provision of funding and information to Upper Macquarie County Council to control noxious weeds on Council’s behalf.

Some of the main tasks required under the Health function of Council are as follows:

To ensure that community health is protected

To promote the safe use of swimming pools

To assist the Upper Macquarie County Council to control weeds in the Council area for the protection and enhancement of the environment

To protect and enhance the natural environment

The performance measures set in the Management Plan were all achieved with the exception that the Planning Strategy undertaken by Council was deferred due to the impending amalgamation.

HOUSING & COMMUNITY AMENITIESHousing and Community Amenities includes:

Management of environmental development in accordance with the statutory framework

Management of waste services

Provision and management of cemeteries

The provision and maintenance of public conveniences

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Management of environmental monitoring and reporting.

Some of the main tasks required under the Housing and Community Amenities function of Council are as follows:

Review and coordinate the implementation of strategic planning in accordance with the provisions of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act, 1979

Ensure building applications comply with legislative requirements

Ensure development occurs within the provisions of the Evans Interim Development Order

Provision of waste management services

Ensure community and cultural facilities are available to members of the public and are maintained at acceptable levels

Provide environmental monitoring and protection to ensure the health and safety of the public is not detrimentally affected

Provision of community cemeteries

Management of onsite sewage effluent disposal

Preparation of Council’s Social and Community Plan

To manage and coordinate community heritage preservation and protection.


WATER SUPPLYThis activity relates to the reticulated raw water supply at Hillview Estate, Walang, provided by Council in an ancillary capacity to the potable domestic supplies provided by property owners on an individual basis. It also relates to the raw water supply at Sunny Corner, which has recently come under Council’s control.

Some of the main tasks required under the Water Supply function of Council are as follows:

Provide water supply to the appropriate standards

Preparation of detailed financial and engineering analysis of Wattle Flat Dam and Stand-pipe

Preparation of detailed financial and engineering analysis of Sofala Village water reticulation system.

The performance measures set in the Management Plan were all achieved with the exception of the financial analysis of the Wattle Flat Dam and the Sofala Water Supply due to the impending amalgamation.

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RECREATION & CULTUREThis activity involves:

Provision of a library service for the Council area via contribution to Bathurst Library

Provision and maintenance of parks and reserves

Encouraging participation in the Arts.

Some of the main tasks required under the Recreation and Culture function of Council are as follows:

To maintain parks, reserves and sporting facilities to acceptable levels that encourage regular community use

To assist community groups to provide access to the Arts for Shire residents

To provide residents with access to some form of library services through the Bathurst Library

To minimise risks associated with the Environmental Services functions of Council.


MINING, MANUFACTURE & CONSTRUCTIONThis activity involves:

The issue of construction certificates in accordance with relevant development consents together with a construction monitoring program

Gravel pits for roadworks – provision of gravel pits and restoration of pits when no longer in use.

Some of the main tasks required under the Mining Manufacture and Construction function of Council are as follows:

Provide efficient cost effective building inspection service

Provide gravel pits for use on roadworks.


TRANSPORT & COMMUNICATIONThis activity involves:

The construction and maintenance of state and national roads, main roads, village streets and rural roads

Construction and maintenance of bridges

Tree planting and maintenance

Street lighting which is provided by energy authorities while the location and quantity of street lights is decided by and paid for by Council

Provision of plant and vehicles to carry out council road and other works

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Engineering advice and design – provision of construction design for roadworks.

Some of the main tasks required under the Transport and Communication function of Council are as follows:

Construction of roads to prescribed standards on time and within budget

Constantly pursue all avenues of road funding to improve the quality of road infrastructure

Plan roadworks and resources to ensure efficiency and also that programs reflect changes in community priorities

Maintenance of roads to required standards within budget and on time

Implement risk management principles to road and bridge construction and maintenance

Improve road safety for entire community through continued commitment to the Tablelands Road Safety Project

Adopt a strategic approach to village improvements

Adopt a strategic approach to flood management to minimise the risk of flooding in villages.


ECONOMIC AFFAIRSThis activity involves:

Tourism and industrial promotion

Private Works – utilisation of Council’s plant to achieve maximum utilisation of plant and provision of access to plant for ratepayers.

Some of the main tasks required under the Economic Affairs function of Council are as follows:

Encourage tourism in Shire by provision of tourist information for public dissemination

Encourage use of Council fleet for private works.


State of the Environment Report [s. 428(2)(c)]

Section 428(2)(c) of the Local Government Act, 1993, requires council to prepare a State of the Environment Report for inclusion in the Annual Report.

Evans Shire Council has participated in the preparation of a Regional State of the Environment Report to satisfy the reporting requirements. Seventeen local councils participated in the regional report that identifies environmental conditions of the Upper Macquarie Catchment. The Department of Local Government has advised that the report satisfies the statutory reporting requirements.

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Condition of Public Works [s. 428(2)(d)]

PUBLIC BUILDINGS

Building Type Condition Estimate of Estimate of Maintenance 30/6/04 cost to restore cost to maintain program to satisfactory standard standard $ $

Rockley Park Hall Poor 30,000 Currently being

renovated

Rockley Park Amenities Fair 25,000 1,500 Council’s budget

Burraga War Memorial Monuments Poor 5,000 500 of $1,600 is

Trunkey War Memorial Brick Memorial Fair 6,000 500 intended to

Trunkey Creek Park Change Room Good 1,500 400 provide

Trunkey Creek Shed Fair 6,000 600 maintenance

Trunkey Creek Amenities Block Good 2,500 400 to all parks

Rockley Reserve Amenities Block Good 8,000 600

Wattle Flat Racecourse Amenities Block Fair 8,000 800

Wattle Flat Reserve Amenities Block Fair 4,000 450

Rockley Recycling Centre Good 1,000 100

Council Chambers Building Good 26,000 13,000 11,000

SES Headquarters (Burraga) Building Fair 6,000 3,000 2,000

Works Depot Building etc Fair 119,000 19,000 28,000

Rockley Museum Good 3,000 200 200

Freemantle Bush Fire Shed Good Council’s budget

Georges Plains Bush Fire Shed Good of $6,000 is

Glanmire/Walang Bush Fire Shed Good intended to

Headquarters Bush Fire Shed Good provide

Peel Bush Fire Shed Good maintenance

The Lagoon Bush Fire Shed Good to all bush fire

Turondale Bush Fire Shed Good 3,000 sheds

Wattle Flat Bush Fire Shed Good

Burraga Bush Fire Shed Good

Rockley Bush Fire Shed Good

Yetholme Bush Fire Shed Good

Sally’s Flat Bush Fire Shed Good

Sofala Bush Fire Shed Good

Sunny Corner Bush Fire Shed Fair 5,000

Trunkey Creek Bush Fire Shed Good

Radio Building Bush Fire Bldg Good 100

Equipment Building Bush Fire Bldg Good 100

Radio Building–Yetholme Bush Fire Bldg Good 100

Sofala Showground Buildings Good 6,000 400


Estimate of costs to bring assets to satisfactory standard as at 30 June 2004For reasons of accuracy, the difference between the estimated Replacement Cost and the Written Down Value of the assets has been stated. Estimated costs to bring assets to satisfactory standard were not easily obtained.

$

Rockley Park 261,000

Burraga War Memorial 14,000

Trunkey War Memorial 9,000

Trunkey Creek Park 60,000

Rockley Reserve 31,000

Wattle Flat Racecourse 61,000

Wattle Flat Reserve 51,000

Rockley Recycling Centre 2,000

Council Chambers 748,000

SES Headquarters 24,000

Works Depot 160,000

Rockley Mill Museum 182,000

Bush Fire Buildings 355,000

Sofala Showground 189,000

Total 2,147,000


CONDITION OF COUNCIL ROADSAn assessment of Council Roads to bring them to a satisfactory condition is based on the following criteria:

Sealed RoadsThose roads with a Pavement Condition Index of less than 50 for Local Roads (70 for Regional Roads) are considered as unsatisfactory.

Unsealed RoadsThose roads with a Rated Pavement Condition Index of less than 50 are considered unsatisfactory.

The following cost estimate figures are based on an assessment carried out prior to 30 June 2000.

A SHIRE ROADS

1 Sealed

(i) Length 359 km (ii) Estimate to bring to satisfactory condition $633,000 (iii) Cost to maintain per kilometre $1,334 (iv) 2003/04 Maintenance Program $326,000

2 Unsealed (i) Length 638 km (ii) Estimate to bring to satisfactory condition $11,786,000 (iii) Cost to maintain per kilometre $514 (iv) 2003/04 Maintenance Program $332,000

B REGIONAL ROADS

1 Sealed (i) Length 46 km (ii) Estimate to bring to satisfactory condition $15,000 (iii) Cost to maintain per kilometre $2,174 (iv) 2003/04 Maintenance Program $625,927

C VILLAGE ROADS

1 Sealed (i) Estimate to bring to satisfactory condition $52,000 (ii) Cost to maintain per kilometre $919 (iii) 2003/04 Maintenance Program included in A1(iv)

2 Unsealed (i) Estimate to bring to satisfactory condition $103,000 (ii) Cost to maintain per kilometre $745 (iii) 2003/04 Maintenance Program included in A2(iv)


CONDITION OF BRIDGES

Item Average Average Estimate of Estimate of Total total life remaining cost to bring cost to maintenance years life to satisfactory maintain program years standard standard 2003/04 Current $ $ $

Concrete 72.9 39.4 423,000

Total – 121(Satisfactory – 104)(Fair – 17)

Timber 51.0 20.1 668,000 42,000 44,000

Total – 34(Satisfactory – 23)(Fair – 11)

* To upgrade all ‘Fair’ Bridges

Council is currently controlling and maintaining 155 bridges within the Shire. Of these, 34 are timber and in excess of six metres deck length.

WATER SUPPLY

Item Average Average Estimate of Estimate of Total total life remaining cost to bring cost to maintenance years life to satisfactory maintain program years standard standard 2003/04 Current $ $ $

Hillview 50 38 25,000 2,500 3,600

Sunny Corner 100 0 0 0 0

SEWERAGENo sewerage services are supplied to Evans Shire residents.


Legal Proceedings [s. 428(2)(e)]

RATE RECOVERYCouncil, during the reporting year again engaged the services of a debt recovery company. During the financial year action taken included the issuing of demand letters followed by the service of summonses.

SALE OF LAND FOR UNPAID RATESCouncil did not resolve to sell any properties for unpaid rates during 2003/04.

OTHER LEGAL EXPENSESCouncil was involved in one instance of litigation during the 2003/04 financial year. It related to an appeal to the Land & Environment Court over Council’s decision on a development application.

Council also sought advice on some occasions from its solicitor regarding roads, administration and planning matters.

Case Cost Current to date position 30/06/03

Townsend v Evans Shire Council $31,063 Finalised

Councillors’ Fees & Expenses [s. 428(2)(f)]

AMOUNTS EXPENDED FOR PERIOD 2003/04

Subtotal

Fees Mayor $8,385

Councillors $73,980 $82,365

Expenses Conferences $313

Travelling $29,264

Insurance $5,535 $35,112

Election Expenses $29,415

Facilities Subsistence $5,254

Subtotal $ 152,146

Civic Activities Australia Day $3,820

ANZAC Day $662

Local Govt. Week $23

General $2,964 $7,469

Total $159,615

Senior Staff Remuneration [s. 428(2)(g)]

The number of designated ‘Senior Staff ’ employed by Council is one (1) being the General Manager. The total cost of Senior Staff for the period in accordance with Section 428 (2) (g) was $103,721.

Contracts for Goods & Services [s. 428(2)(h)]

Evans Shire Council has had no major contracts awarded during this year.


Environmental Programs [s. 428(2)(i1)]

BUSH FIRE CONTROL 2003/04Council’s total funding allocation approved against the Bush Fire Fighting Fund for 2003/04 was $789,139, Council will continue with the tanker fleet upgrade, the tanker maintenance program and firefighter safety items.

Brigade ActivityBrigades were once again very active within the District having to attend 242 incidents during the 2003/04 reporting period. The incidents consisted of:

150 fire related incidents

34 motor vehicle accidents (provide fire protection)

55 other situations (hazard reduction work, assist other agencies and assist other districts to control major fires across the State)

3 false alarm calls.

Bush Fire Management Committees (BFMC)The Bush Fire Management Committee continued to carry out its statutory responsibilities during the year. It resulted in the enhancement of the hazard reduction program and the execution of several hazard reduction activities.

Multicultural Services [s. 428(2)(j)]

During the reporting year 2003/04 Council received no requests for assistance from non-English speaking, overseas born residents or ethnic groups and this has been the case for many years.

Council has developed relationships with other qualified authorities and bodies that would be able to assist with any problem that may arise.

At this point in time no demonstrated need for cross-cultural awareness training for staff has been identified.

The Evans Shire Council supports groups with funding applications as required.

Private Works [s. 428(2)(k)]

Council is required to provide details of any resolutions concerning works carried out on private land. No such resolutions were made by Council in 2003/04.

Council annually reviews the fixed rate for carrying out such works, the rates are set generally in line with current private sector rates. All work done on private land during 2003/04 was done and charged at Council’s adopted fee structure.

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Contributions/Donations [s. 428(2)(l)] Section 356 – Financial Assistance

$

Burraga Public School 60

Hill End Public School 60

Rockley Public School 60

Kirkconnell Public School 60

Meadow Flat Public School 60

O’Connell Public School 60

Sofala Public School 60

The Lagoon Public School 60

Trunkey Creek Public School 60

Wattle Flat Public School 60

Arts OutWest 1,500

Bathurst Eisteddfod Society 70

Evans Arts Council 570

Sofala District Show 320

Keep Australia Beautiful Council 310

Western Region Academy of Sport 200

Rockley Rodeo Committee 300

Environmental Learning Facility 1,000

Rockley P & C 50

The Hill End Festival 300

Cobb & Co Heritage Trail 350

Wattle Flat Bronze Thong Committee 200

Bathurst Show 418

Yetholme & District Progress Assoc. 1,000

Total 7,188

Human Resource Activities [s. 428(2)(m)]

AWARD RESTRUCTURINGCouncil established a Consultative Committee to provide a forum for consultation between Council and its employees, to drive the implementation of the award restructuring process and ensure workplace reform. The Evans Shire Council Consultative Committee comprises representatives from Council, management and staff representing various Unions.

OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH AND SAFETYCouncil’s Occupational Health and Safety Committee established in accordance with relevant legislation, meets on a quarterly basis or as required. The committee undertakes several roles:

Reviews measures taken to make the workplace healthy and safe

Brings to the attention of the Council and investigates any situation which a committee member or employee may think is unsafe

If possible resolves any health and safety issue. If the committee is unable to resolve the problem the WorkCover Authority of New South Wales may be contacted

Development of health and safety policy, safe working environment systems and systems for recording accidents and hazardous situations within the workplace

Continual monitoring of procedures for ensuring the proper use and maintenance or replacement of protective equipment when necessary

Recommendations to Council to ensure/improve the health and safety of people in the workplace.

ORGANISATION STRUCTUREIn accordance with the provisions of the Local Government Act, 1993, Council has determined its Organisation Structure.

The structure consists of three Departments under the control of the appointed General Manager. Those Departments are:

Corporate ServicesEnvironmental Services

Engineering Services

TRAININGThis year’s training program centred mainly around the completion of a WELL (Workplace English Language and Literacy) project. This project included the following activities:

Rewriting of numerous council forms into plain English

Specific training in risk management areas

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Training on ‘Train Small Groups’

Training on Lead Work Teams

Training on Workplace OH&S Risk Management Systems.

Staff have also attended numerous information seminars and conferences including the Western District Rangers Seminar, Timber Development Seminar, Annual General Ranger and Ordinance Inspector Seminar, the Australian Institute of Environmental Health Conference, the National Rural Roads Congress and the Institute of Municipal Engineers Australia Annual Conference.

The total direct expenditure on training and seminars etc for the year was $53,811.

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) [s. 428(2)(n)]

Council’s Equal Employment Opportunity Policy and Procedures demonstrates the commitment of Council and staff to provide a work environment that accepts the principles of equal employment and avoids discrimination.

Council continues to update and revise its Staff Induction Program, which is given to all new employees. It outlines the rights and responsibilities of employees in all areas of employment but particularly in relation to Equal Employment Opportunity, Sexual Harassment, Staff Training, Occupational Health and Safety and Grievance Procedures.

Council is continually developing a detailed strategy that will involve the development of a schedule of training aimed at maintaining/increasing awareness of Equal Employment Opportunity for all employees. It will also involve giving all employees equal access to training in their respective areas of expertise.

External Bodies Exercising Council Functions [s. 428(2)(o)]

LIBRARY SERVICES

Evans Council contributes annually to the costs of operating the Bathurst Library. In 2003/04 Evans Council contributed $63,844.

The Library resources include books, periodicals, newspapers, large print books, spoken-word cassettes, posters and language courses. Depots for book borrowing operate at Hill End and Trunkey Creek. A travelling Library visits Burraga, Rockley, Wattle Flat, Sofala, Trunkey Creek and schools in the Shire area.

CONTROL OF NOXIOUS WEEDSUpper Macquarie County Council carries out the control of noxious weeds within the Evans Shire Council area.

Upper Macquarie County Council consists of ten Councillors, two delegates from Evans Shire Council, Bathurst City Council, Oberon Shire Council, Greater Lithgow City Council and Blayney Shire Council.

Council contributed $54,728 to the Upper Macquarie County Council during 2003/04 financial year.

Controlling Interest in Companies [s. 428(2)(p)]

Evans Shire Council has no controlling interest in any companies.

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Partnerships, Cooperatives & Joint Ventures [s. 428(2)(q)]

CENTROCCouncil was a member of the Central West Regional Organisation of Councils (CENTROC).

LIBRARY SERVICESBathurst City Council and Evans Shire Council had an agreement, which provided a Regional Travelling Library to various locations around the Shire area.

NETWASTEEvans Shire Council participated with other CENTROC members to approach major waste and recycling issues on a regional basis. Impressive results in particular have been achieved to date with the processing of green waste.

drumMUSTEREvans Shire Council joined the drumMUSTER campaign along with other Central West Councils to assist with the recycling of used farm chemical containers.

RURAL FIRE SERVICEEvans Shire Council and Bathurst City Councils had an agreement whereby Evans Shire Council received a contribution from Bathurst City Council to administer Rural Fire Service activities in both Council areas.

TABLELANDS AREA ROAD SAFETY PROGRAMIn November 1999, Bathurst City Council, Blayney Shire Council, Evans Shire Council, Oberon Council and Rylstone Shire Council joined together with the Roads & Traffic Authority to implement road safety initiatives in the Tablelands Area. This was done via the appointment of a Road Safety Officer.

Rates & Charges Written Off [s. 428(2)(r) – cl.2]Rates written off during the 2003/04 year are itemised as follows:

Ordinary $5,296

Pensioner (Council) $24,993

Pensioner (Department) $24,993

Total $55,282

Rates written off during the year amounted mainly to changes

in land valuation, land categorisation or hardship requests by ratepayers.

Overseas Visits [s. 428(2)(r) – cl.7A(a)]

Evans Shire Council did not fund any overseas visits during 2003/04.

Total Remuneration for Senior Staff[s. 428(2)(r) – cl.7A(b)]

The number of designated Senior Staff employed by Council is one (1). The cost of Senior Staff for the period in accordance with Section 428(2)(g) was as follows:

General Manager

Wages $85,725

Superannuation $13,800

Motor Vehicle $2,050

Fringe Benefits Tax $2,146

Total Cost $103,721

Activities for Children[s. 428(2)(r) – cl.7A(c)]

During the reporting year Evans Shire Council has undertaken various children’s programs. They include:

LIBRARY SERVICESEvans Shire Council contributed to the Bathurst Travelling Library, which regularly visits various schools within the Shire area and also to other activities at the Bathurst Library.

FIREGUARD FOR KIDS‘Fireguard for Kids’ is an awareness of fire and fire prevention program for children. The program was continued and presented to Shire schools by Council’s Fire Control Officer and volunteers. Presentations, including static displays and hand out material relating to the prevention of and protection against bush fires, were held at several venues.

LOCAL GOVERNMENT WEEKLocal Government Week in our Shire is a time that the children within the Shire participate in activities relating to learning more about Local Government. Approximately 60 children attended


the Council’s office and were shown bush fire equipment, the depot and administration areas of the Council Chamber and joined with the Evans Shire Council staff members for a BBQ lunch. Upon departure each child was handed a sample bag of useful information about bush fire, recycling, stickers, balloons and badges.

EVANS ARTS COUNCILEvans Arts Council have special sections within their Photographic Competition and Art Exhibition in which children are invited to participate.

Access & Equity of Services to All [s. 428(2)(r) – cl.7A(d)]

There are no barriers between Evans Shire Council and the community. We are always open to community involvement and promote easy access to our services. With the Rate Notice (sent out in June) we include a Community Report, which informs the community of the activities and issues that are of interest. The community is encouraged to discuss matters of concern to them with Council.

Council buildings are easily accessed by the Community with no steps or steep ramps, with parking always available close to the building, which is not limited by time.

The Shire covers over 428,000 ha surrounding the City of Bathurst, with some isolated areas and there are several services that Council does not directly provide but does contribute to. They are:

Community Bus Service which covers the outlying districts of the Shire at least once a week, this service is regularly advertised to ensure community awareness

Bathurst Regional Travelling Library which visits various venues within the Shire area and is regularly advertised in the media.

Evans Arts Council provides the community with cultural influence holding an Art Exhibition, a Craft Exhibition and a Photographic Competition during each year.

Council also encourages community input into all development applications that have a demonstrable impact on the amenity of local areas within the Shire. Planning Forums are hosted by Council to ensure all issues of concern are taken into account prior to a final decision being taken.

Council undertook a series of Community Consultation meetings in 2003/04 throughout all the major centres of the Shire to brief the residents on the events in the Shire (particularly the impending amalgamation) and also to allow residents to provide some input into what services they would like to see provided in their districts.

Category 1 & 2 Business Activities [s. 428(2)(r) – cl. 20]

CATEGORY 1Council has no Category 1 Business undertakings and therefore incurred no expenses or gained any revenues in relation to this type of activity.

Council provides a raw water supply to one subdivision of thirty assessments with a total income of $5,343.00. This activity does not classify it as Category 1, and therefore Council has not developed any policy of implementation, as it does not undertake any business activities.

CATEGORY 2Council has no Category 2 Business undertakings and therefore incurred no expenses or gained any revenue in relation to this type of activity.

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Principals of Competitive Neutrality[s. 428(2)(r) – cl. 7A(2)]

Council does allow use of its plant fleet for some minor works on private property, but this is generally only in outlying areas where the cost of transporting private machinery would make the job uneconomical for the landholder. Council does not actively seek or tender for this work but does it when requested to do so. Council adjusts its charges to market rates in the area to comply with Competitive Neutrality Guidelines but Council does not consider that this particular activity is classified as a significant business activity. It is basically a service provided to landholders and had a total turnover of $174,000.00 for the year.

Council has received no complaints on Competitive Neutrality issues.

FOI Statistical Report[s. 428(2)(r) – s. 68(6) Freedom of Information Act 1989]

Evans Shire Council is committed to the provision of an open system of Government where every attempt is made to provide access by members of the public to the decision making process of the Council.

One request for information under the Freedom of Information Act was made during the year.

Reporting Year FOI Requests Status Resolution

1993/94 1 Referred to Ombudsman Resolved

1994/95 Nil

1995/96 Nil

1996/97 Nil

1997/98 Nil

1998/99 Nil

1999/2000 Nil

2000/2001 Nil

2001/2003 Nil

2002/2003 Nil

2003/2004 1 Information provided to satisfy request

Privacy Act[s. 33(3) NSW Privacy & Personal Information Act]

The Privacy and Personal Information Protection Act came into effect for Councils on 1 July 2000. Council has adopted the Model Privacy Management Plan developed by the Department of Local Government. This Act restricts the provision of personal information to individuals or bodies. Council as part of the compliance with this Act has reviewed its information registers and forms and now only collects that information that is required for Council to carry out its statutory obligations. The provision of this information to third parties has ceased except in circumstances prescribed by the Act.

Council has not had to undertake any reviews under Part 5 of the Act in relation to the conduct of Council under the Privacy and Personal Information Protection Act.

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