Annual Report2016–17

03

Introductory Information 04

Chair’s Message 05

Chief Executive Officer’s Message 06

Board 08

Board Sub-Committees 09

Members 10

Creating our Agenda 12

Highlights 14

Our Work

Jobs & Connectivity 16

Sustainability & Innovation 24

Community & Health 28

Our Influence 39

Member Events 41

Financial Statements 44

contents

our role as thought leadersCommittee for Ballarat is a visionary membership

body that provides progressive and innovative

leadership with a strategic, long-term focus. Being

a member gives an organisation a voice in helping

shape the future of Ballarat and the region, and so

leave a proud legacy for future generations.

ballarat and the regionOur work covers Ballarat and the region, which

extends north to include the Hepburn Shire, south to

include the Golden Plains Shire and west to include

the Pyrenees Shire and the Rural City of Ararat.

The key industries in Ballarat are health, manufacturing,

tourism and community services, education and

retailing. Along with the banking and finance sector and

government services, these industries are strengthening

Ballarat’s role as a major regional city.

Ballarat and the region’s population is currently around

170,000. This is projected to increase by 96,200 to

266,200 by 2051*. (*Source: Victoria in Future 2015).

thinking aheadWe employ intellectual rigour and strategic thinking

to solve the problems Ballarat and the region faces

now and into the future.

• We use vision, strategy, engagement and influence

to help create a better future for Ballarat and

the region

• We tackle the social, economic and environmental

issues of our time and envision innovative ways to

address them.

• We employ intellectual rigour and strategic

thinking to solve the problems Ballarat and the

region faces now and into the future.

• We connect and engage with stakeholders, involve

and inform the community, and seek expert advice.

• We use our influence and connections to guide

and progress key projects and programs that are

of benefit to the region.

Our strategic, long-term focus transcends short-term

political cycles. Our non-partisan position enables us

to effectively advocate for sustainable, responsible and

dynamic development in the region.

We work collaboratively with key stakeholders from

across the region and the Committees for Cities & Regions

alliance to achieve our vision with the three tiers of

government.

introductory information

04

Over the past year, we have continued our momentum

of advocacy, influence and collaboration on strategic

priorities. Our members have continued to work within

our committees and project teams to guide our work

and to reinforce the strength of our organisation.

Activity under each of our three strategic pillars is

underway to establish a solid foundation for our

advocacy work.

Good relationships have been maintained with the

federal and state governments, the federal and state

oppositions and the business sector, and we know that

the next elections will be crucial for our infrastructure

needs and future employment opportunities. We are

still playing catch-up with connectivity on rail, road

and telecommunications despite significant investment

commitments. Consequently, our voice will continue to

be loud on behalf of our members.

Nowhere is this more evident than in the alternative

energy sector, where we see it as an imperative to

capitalise on the state government’s energy auction

process for renewable supply sources. Our intention is to

attract energy company headquarters, develop training

facilities and ensure our region is promoted as the go-to

place for this industry.

Underpinning this momentum is the potential for

embracing diversity through supporting immigration,

boosting available skills, continuing our smart

manufacturing innovation, supporting artistic endeavours,

providing sporting activities, and ensuring awareness of

the excellence in education and health within our region.

The Moment is Now video still resonates with so many

of us and captures the spirit of optimism we believe the

majority of people embrace. Our goal is to enhance

our region’s reputation for co-operation and encourage

entrepreneurial activity, creativity and change within the

goldfields legacy.

Nothing is possible without the great team of staff in our

office, and I acknowledge them all for their capacity to

adapt, focus and play as a united team.

There is indeed a great future in the making.

Janet Dore

Chair

chair’s message

05

Ballarat and the region is a wonderful area of Victoria,

and we all recognise its potential as an incredible place

to work, live and conduct business.

One of the reasons we are in the enviable position of

having significant investment in our region is because

of the dedication of Committee for Ballarat members to

shape a better future for our region and our city. Ballarat

is transforming, and this is evident everywhere we look,

with a palpable vibe now giving the city a hum.

Committee has worked strategically to advocate on behalf

of its members and Ballarat more broadly. This year we

welcomed a number of game-changing announcements

and events – GovHub, BWEZ Stage 2, AFL football and White

Night, as well as investment in rail connectivity and the station

precinct. The pipeline of large-scale investment continues to

come our way and is bringing prosperity to our region.

As a key advocate, Committee for Ballarat capitalises on

every opportunity to leverage the economic potential

of the region. We know our voice is being heard by a

broad range of local, state, and federal politicians, as well

as industry experts and key influencers. And whilst the

outcomes are not always immediate or even tangible, the

involvement of Committee lends weight to the collective

efforts of regional advocacy.

As a result of long-term advocacy, many projects are

now coming to fruition. It is now time to revisit our

strategic plan.

Utilising our members’ knowledge, insight and expertise,

we will develop policy that will underpin Committee’s

agenda for the next three years, and which will be used

to develop our list of priorities for the upcoming state and

federal elections.

The Leadership Ballarat and Western Region program

has continued to produce highly skilled and passionate

graduates to drive the future of our region.

Throughout the program, participants learn leadership

skills; gain access to key local, state and national leaders;

and develop deep insights into the region’s history, present

situation and future potential. The alumni groups are

critical to positive change and to increasing the level of

community involvement of our leaders.

ceo’s message

06

It sometimes feels a logistical challenge to remain closely

associated with all member organisations as well as being

focused on our strategic plan, advocacy and leadership for the

region. To do this requires dedicated and hardworking people

– and I could have no better team than Gayle, Adele, Jennie,

Brenton and Chloe. Without their passion and commitment,

Committee would not be able to perform in the manner it

does.

Melanie Robertson

Chief Executive Officer

07

Committee for Ballarat is a not-for-profit advocacy

organisation that uses vision, strategy, engagement

and influence to create a better future for Ballarat and

the region.

The role of the Committee for Ballarat Board is to ensure

the delivery of the organisation’s objectives, to set its

strategic direction, and to promote and uphold its values.

It is collectively responsible and accountable for ensuring

and monitoring that the organisation is performing well, is

solvent, and is complying with all its legal, financial, and

ethical obligations.

The Board has four sub-committees – Governance;

Finance, Audit and Risk Management; Membership

and Communications; and Leadership Ballarat and

Western Region.

Under its rules of association, the Board can consist of

up to 21 members, 18 of whom are elected directly by

Committee for Ballarat members. Terms of appointment

are normally for three years.

The following Board members retired during the year and we thank

them for their valued contribution to Committee’s work: Lynne McLennan

(Board Deputy Chair until February 2017), Jeremy Cowan, Michael Krieg

and Cr Des Hudson.

Nick BealeODP Associates

Terry LloydSovereign Hill

Luke RienietsBendigo Bank

Stephen ByrneBJT Legal

Cr Samantha McIntoshMayor, City of Ballarat

Don RobinsonHarwood Andrews

Torben Fink-JensenAlstom limited

Bill MundyCommunity

Ron SelkirkSelkirk Pty Ltd

Dale FraserBallarat Health Services

Paul O’DonohueCentral Highlands Water

Todd WalkerFederation University

Australia

Phillip LeeRay White Ballarat

Robyn ReevesBallarat Community Health

Scott WilliamsLBWR Chair

Janet Dore, Chair

Rodney Walton, Deputy Chair

boardas at 30 june 2017

08

as at 30 june 2017

farm committee(Finance, Audit and Risk Management)

This committee provides advice to the Board on all matters

related to finance, statutory reporting, audits and risk

management to ensure Committee for Ballarat meets its

responsibilities in these areas.

Chair: Luke Rieniets (Bendigo Bank)

Members: Stephen Byrne (BJT Legal),

Graeme Dixon (FMP Group), Janet

Dore (Chair, Committee for Ballarat),

Robert Hook (Community member),

Jodie Perry (McCains) Observers:

Melanie Robertson (CEO, Committee

for Ballarat), Sandra Campbell (RSM

Australia), Paula Vagg (RSM Australia,

Secretariat Support)

governance committeeThis committee ensures that the Board is performing at

optimal levels, engaging and involving its members and

planning for leadership succession.

Chair: Janet Dore (Chair, Committee

for Ballarat) Members: Paul O’Donohue

(Central Highlands Water), Don

Robinson (Harwood Andrews

Lawyers), Committee for Ballarat

Secretariat Support

mac committee(Membership and Communications)

This committee provides advice to the Board on attracting

and retaining a broad membership base and communicating

effectively about Committee for Ballarat’s work.

Chair: Bill Mundy (Community

member) Members: Phillip Lee

(Ray White Ballarat), Robyn Reeves

(Ballarat Community Health),

John Fitzgibbon (Radio Ballarat),

Tony Stone (volunteer/friend of

Committee), Janet Dore (Chair,

Committee for Ballarat), Melanie

Robertson (CEO, Committee for

Ballarat), Committee for Ballarat

Secretariat Support

lbwr committee(Leadership Ballarat + Western Region)

This committee oversees the strategic development of LBWR.

Chair: Scott Williams (Scott Williams

Consulting) Members: Tony Chew

(Learning Partner), Bobby Mehta

(LBWR 2012, UFS Dispensaries),

Norman Prueter (LBWR 2012,

Pyrenees Shire), Nicole Roberts

(LBWR 2011, Sovereign Hill),

Melanie Robertson (CEO, Committee

for Ballarat) and Jennie Courtney

(Executive Officer, LBWR)

board sub-committees

09

as at 30 june 2017

members

Executive

Alstom City of Ballarat Selkirk Pty Ltd

Ballarat Health Services Federation University Australia Sovereign Hill

Central Highlands Water Mars Chocolate St John of God Hospital

Corporate Gold

Ballarat Community Health Harwood Andrews LawyersMercure Ballarat Hotel and Convention Centre

BGT Employment J G King Pty Ltd Skills Plus & BRACE

H Troon Pty Ltd McDonald’s Family Restaurants Western Bulldogs

Corporate

Adroit Insurance Group Eclipse Ford Nicholson Construction

Ararat Rural City Council Eureka Concrete People @ Work & Gforce

Australian Catholic University Findlay Engineering Pipecon Pty Ltd

Avis Ballarat FMP Group Powercor Australia

Ballarat Basketball Association Inc G Gay & Co Home Hardware PRD Jens Gaunt

Ballarat Clarendon College Gekko Systems Pty Ltd Pyrenees Shire Council

Ballarat Grammar Goldacres Trading Pty Ltd RACV Goldfields Resort

Ballarat Holden Golden Plains Shire Council Radio Ballarat

Ballarat Oncology & Haematology Services

Haymes Paint Ray White Ballarat

Ballarat Regional Tourism Heinz & Partners Red Lion Hotel

Ballarat Turf Club Hepburn Shire Council RSM Australia Pty Ltd

Bank Australia Limited IBM Australia† Sargeant Transport Pty Ltd

Bank of Melbourne Inspire HQ SED Consulting

Bendigo Bank Integra Land Telstra Country Wide

BJT Legal J B Cameron (Vic) Pty Ltd† TGM Group

Bolton’s Office National JK Personnel The Courier

Castlemaine Goldfields Ltd Lake Imaging The Forge Pizzeria

CDC Ballarat Pty Ltd McCain Foods (Aust) Pty Ltd UFS Dispensaries

C E Bartlett Pty Ltd M.A.D.E UGL Rail

Colliers International MaxiTRANS Australia Pty Ltd WDEA Employment

Commonwealth Bank† Mulcahy & Co Accounting Services Western Vic Primary Health Network

Craig’s Royal Hotel National Australia Bank YMCA Ballarat Inc

10

Small Business

AICD‡ Elmstone Property Group Leader Property Practice†

Australian Industry Group‡ Fenix Performance Solutions† Mass Motion

Bayside Bistros Pty Ltd† W M Flynn Pty Ltd Mees Partners†

Bold Communication Her Majesty’s Ballarat† ODP Associates

Commerce Ballarat‡ Hstudios† The Victorian Chamber of Commerce and Industry‡

Cultivate Agribusiness‡ Kaufmann Property Consultants Vicwest Community Telco

Community

Lisa Anderson† Daryl Clifton† Brett MacDonald†

Tony Chew† Sheree Collins† Bill Mundy

Peta Clark† Janet Dore Scott Williams

Honorary

Prof David Battersby Prof David James Judy Verlin AM

†New members 2016–17‡Associate members

11

David Battersby was made an honorary member at the Round Table Dinner on 11 August 2016

Newly appointed Community members – January 2017

strategic action plan 2016–20The Committee for Ballarat’s agenda is 100 per cent driven

by its members. The information acquired from a series

of member workshops and surveys held during 2015–16

was analysed and a number of key issues were identified

by members for Ballarat and the region. These issues then

informed the development of the Strategic Action Plan

2016–20, which was released in May 2016, and forms

the basis of Committee’s strategic focus.

our strategic focusCommittee for Ballarat will influence economic and social

agendas to stimulate investment, future-proof jobs and

build dynamic, vibrant communities across our region.

Over the remaining years of the strategic plan, we will seize

opportunities that will:

Create Jobs

We will continue to support regional developments such

as the Ballarat West Employment Zone and relocation of a

state government department to Ballarat.

Align Skills with Industry Needs

We will use our influence to facilitate the development

of an innovative approach to learning and create new

pathways to employment that address existing gaps.

Create Better Linkages across the Region

We will support major transport infrastructure developments

that will drive prosperity for our regional communities by

improving productivity and business opportunities.

Attract Investment in Innovation

We will work with key partners to transition Ballarat and

the region into a new economy based on the most recent

technologies, innovation clusters and creativity, and to

position our region with a competitive advantage in the bio-

resources sector.

creating our agenda

Strategic Action Plan 2016-20For Ballarat and the Region

12

Build More Liveable Communities

We will be relentless in our support of initiatives that

improve the physical and social health and wellbeing

of residents that foster vibrant, diverse, connected and

inclusive communities.

Revitalise the Ballarat CBD

We will advocate developments that will generate social

and economic vibrancy in the heart of the city through

major projects such as the redevelopment of the Civic Hall

site and the Ballarat Station precinct.

Brave, Visionary Leadership

We will continue to push for strong and visionary leadership

from the three levels of government, with a focus on long-

term strategic development across our region.

our strategic driversThe seven key issues identified by our members that will

be providing the focus areas for our work, as described in

the previous section, have been divided into the following

realigned Strategic Drivers:

1. Jobs & Connectivity

2. Sustainability & Innovation

3. Community & Health

13

600 jobs to move to ballaratIn May 2017, the Victorian Government announced that it will relocate 600

government jobs to Ballarat at a cost of $47.8 million over the next four years.

In 2016–17, $4 million was spent on developing the city’s Civic Hall site, which

will be the location for the proposed GovHub housing multiple departments.

Committee for Ballarat CEO, Melanie Robertson, said bringing hundreds of jobs

to the area was “hugely significant”. “But it is also the support that comes

along with 600 new government employees,” she said.

regional rail connectivity project gets the green lightCommuters on the Ballarat train line are set to experience unprecedented phone signal

improvement after the state government gave the green light to the $18 million mobile

service upgrade along the state’s five busiest V/Line train routes.

Committee for Ballarat Chair Janet Dore said the issue

was one of vital importance for Ballarat commuters

and said the investment would play a crucial role in

helping attract professionals to regional Victoria.

highlights

14

leaders lobby canberra for major regional projectsA delegation consisting of Janet Dore, Chair, and Melanie

Robertson, CEO, of Committee for Ballarat and Mayor Cr

Samantha McIntosh and Justine Linley, CEO, from the City of

Ballarat travelled to Canberra in the last week of March to

lobby the federal government regarding a number of key

projects in the lead-up to the Budget .

These projects were for the duplication of the Ballarat rail

line, the establishment of Ballarat as a key transport hub

for western Victoria, and the development of a centre for

renewable energy excellence for the Asia–Pacific region in

partnership with Federation University Australia.

15

Better connectivity will improve

productivity, create sustainable jobs,

drive prosperity and build better

communities across our region.

our focus1. Promoting regional developments that will stimulate investment and

business opportunities.

2. Advocating better physical and virtual connectivity that will stimulate

investment and business opportunities, particularly for our regional and

rural communities.

3. Working with key partners to transition to an innovative approach to

pathways to employment.

our work: jobs & connectivity

The Issue Our Vision

15,000 new jobs are needed in our region by 2030 to support our region’s projected population increase.

We need to lock in sustainable employment in the Ballarat West Employment Zone (BWEZ) and the relocation of a major state government department to Ballarat’s CBD.

Our current transport infrastructure does not support high-performance freight vehicles (HPVs) for increased productivity.

We need an integrated approach to transport planning that will deliver better transport infrastructure and connectivity.

Freight costs are already a major barrier for business attraction and retention and they are projected to double by 2030.

The BWEZ is strategically located to host major commercial hubs that service the entire state of Victoria.

There are gaps in our current education offerings due to the changing nature of industry and jobs.

We need to think differently and create new pathways to employment with skills aligned to business needs.

There is a lack of meaningful high-level career pathways for our youth.

We need to adopt an innovative approach with partnerships established between schools and industry.

More and more people are commuting by rail to Melbourne for business, social and recreational connections. However, there are significant barriers to growth and development.

We need to future proof our rail services to match projected population growth through early planning and staged investments by successive state governments.

Mobile black spots in our regional and rural communities are significant barriers to growth and development.

We need to fund mobile towers to improve mobile coverage and deliver a more reliable service across our region.

16

thought leaders

opinion piecesThe following article forms part of a series of opinion

pieces by Committee for Ballarat Chair Janet Dore.

Big rail spend brings us closer to what we really need

Published 30 July 2016, The Courier, Ballarat.

In the biggest dedicated investment on the Ballarat to

Melbourne train line since it was built in the 1880s, the

state government has committed over half a billion dollars

in this year’s budget for a range of upgrade works.

The allocation of $518 million is a good start, and we

acknowledge that this has been achieved thanks to the

efforts of key players working together. The funding will

provide for a number of upgrades that will create much-

needed additional passing opportunities, including new

track duplications at Warrenheip and between Deer Park

and Melton, three new passing loops, double platforms

at Bacchus Marsh and Ballan, a platform extension at

Rockbank, extra car parking at a number of stations, and

additional V/Locity trains…

To read this opinion piece in full, go to

http://www.committeeforballarat.com/big-rail-spend-

brings-us-closer-to-what-we-really-need.php.

news articlesJobs, train connectivity key in 2017

An influx of jobs and the completion of the Regional Rail

Connectivity project are key requirements for Ballarat in 2017,

according to Committee for Ballarat CEO Melanie Robertson.

In an article in The Courier on 10 January 2017, Melanie

said it’s time that the state government delivered more

jobs to revitalise Ballarat’s CBD and that the development

of the Ballarat West Employment Zone (BWEZ) was also

a key priority. A number of other projects high on the list

are the relocation of a state government department to

Ballarat, improvements to mobile reception on the Ballarat

rail line, the construction of the Buninyong fire station, the

rebuilding of the ambulance station in Wendouree and the

upgrading of seven local schools and kindergartens…

What does $518 million buy us?

The state government’s $518 million boon investment in

the Ballarat rail line will certainly buy a lot of things, but a

one-hour trip to Melbourne won’t be one of them.

However, there’s still plenty for the Ballarat commuter to

celebrate as the state government-created Melbourne Metro

Rail Authority (MMRA) takes its first steps in delivering the

biggest upgrade to the corridor in its 137-year history.

In The Courier on 4 March 2017, MMRA chief executive

Evan Tattersall said while a shortened trip may not be

among the outcomes from the two-year project, an

improved commuter experience can be expected…

17

Federal funding for Ballarat rail line

Committee for Ballarat, together with a number of other

advocacy groups, councils and politicians, has been

lobbying the federal government to contribute funding to

improve Victoria’s regional rail service.

In The Courier on 8 April 2017, Committee Chair Janet

Dore said that governments of all persuasions needed

to acknowledge the benefits that strong regional centres

would provide for the growth of cities and central to that

was fast, efficient rail services. The commute between

Ballarat and Southern Cross Station should be 45 minutes

and that can only happen as a result of cooperation

between the Victorian and federal governments…

Ballarat gets carriages but stays on feet

While the Ballarat line has been the main recipient of

the first of 48 train carriages rolled out by the state

government, commuters on the service can expect to

keep standing for some time yet.

In The Courier on 25 April 2017, Committee for Ballarat

Chair Janet Dore listed additional funding for additional

carriages as a priority project ahead of the state

government’s budget on 2 May…

Jobs key to our future

Transforming our city into the heart of western Victoria

relies on the ability to attract jobs, students and higher-

density housing into central Ballarat.

The success of the bold CBD vision relies on the creation

of up to 1000 government jobs in central Ballarat and

development of first-class office facilities.

In The Courier on 11 March 2017 City of Ballarat chief

executive officer Justine Linley said the lack of major jobs

investment was not for lack of council pressure. “This is a

council that wants to progress and wants to have activity

and job creation and job generation within the central part

of Ballarat,” Ms Linley said.

Committee for Ballarat chairwoman Janet Dore led the

bold move of the Transport Accident Commission to a

western part of Geelong’s CBD that was underutilised…

City’s white-collar future

After years of speculation, Ballarat’s public sector jobs

push has finally been answered, with the state

government announcing in the State Budget for 2017–18

that it would be relocating 600 roles to the Civic Hall site.

In The Courier on 3 May 2017, the Committee for Ballarat

Chair Janet Dore said the government’s commitment to

shift jobs to Civic Hall was “the best opportunity we could

have had” to revitalise the city’s CBD. Ms Dore has long

campaigned for an infusion of government jobs to Ballarat

to boost the CBD. She said she was “completely open to

whatever solution emerges” for repurposing the site…

18

Freight hub is vital for the future of BWEZ

Expressions of interest for the development of the Ballarat

Freight Hub in BWEZ concluded in February 2016, yet

there’s still been no action. Committee for Ballarat chair

Janet Dore said “it would appear” as though works on

the hub had stalled, which posed major issues given its

importance as a selling point to prospective tenants.

“It’s sounding very much like it has stalled which is very

concerning,” Ms Dore said. “The Freight Hub is absolutely

vital for the future of BWEZ and will be pivotal for creating

new jobs and encouraging entrepreneurs to invest here.”…

Regional rail revival back in play

Victoria’s regional rail revival is back on track after the

Turnbull government announced it would fund the

majority of the $1.45 billion project.

The federal government announced on Monday it would

hand over $1.42 billion including just over half a billion

dollars for upgrades to the Ballarat line…

To read these news articles in full, go to

http://www.committeeforballarat.com/latest-news.php

briefings and forumsDuring 2016–17, briefings and forums were held

for members to inform them of issues that were

important to this region. In relation to Jobs and

Connectivity, these were presentations on the

Western Distributor project, the Ballarat Line

Upgrade project, the current state of Australia’s

energy market, and the West Gate Tunnel project.

For more details on these events, turn to page 43.

19

cbd activation and revitalisationFollowing a strategic review of its projects, Committee for

Ballarat Board revised its project structure to more closely

align with its strategic plan.

In late 2016, the CBD Activation and Revitalisation project

team was established to build on the work undertaken by

the former Brand Ballarat project team and, in particular,

focus on CBD revitalisation issues, including attracting

quality jobs to the CBD.

Its objectives are to

• identify the factors impacting the attractiveness and

prosperity of the CBD to development

• advocate for developments and projects that will

generate social and economic vibrancy in the heart

of the city through major projects such as the

redevelopment of the Civic Hall site and the Ballarat

Station Precinct

• attract a major employer (private sector, government

authority or statutory body) to the CBD

• explore the impact of planning on CBD activation and

revitalisation.

Progress

The initial work of the project group has focused on

information gathering and developing a goal achievement

plan to deliver on its objectives.

However, two developments, which will be game-changers

for the activation and revitalisation of the CBD, were

announced by the state government during the 2016–17

financial year. They are as follows:

• Railway Station Precinct

Over many years, Committee has advocated for the

redevelopment of the Civic Hall site and integrating any

plans with the redevelopment of the station precinct.

While a funding commitment of $25 million was

announced in the May 2015 State Budget, it was in

November 2016 that the state government unveiled the

consortium which will take control of the project. This

consortium will also be in charge of building a hotel on

the site and the redevelopment of the goods shed.

In total, over $49 million has been committed for the

precinct.

• Civic Hall Site and GovHub

In the May 2017 budget, the state government

announced that $47.8 million had been allocated for

the relocation of a number of government departments,

including 600 staff, to the Civic Hall site.

The site will be redeveloped to accommodate 1000

new workers in 2020.

projects

20

what’s nextThe future focus of the CBD Activation and Revitalisation

team will be in the following areas:

• Actively advocating to ensure GovHub is delivered and

rail precinct development is commenced

• Working with City of Ballarat to attract a major private

employer into the CBD

• Developing an election strategy for the state election

in 2018

The Board extends its thanks to the following project

team members for their contribution to the CBD

Activation and Revitalisation project.

Project team at 30 June 2017

Chair: Ron Selkirk (Selkirk Pty Ltd)

Members: Lisa Anderson (CfB Community member),

Stephen Byrne (BJT Legal), Noel Dempsey (Visit Ballarat),

Adrian Doyle (Leader Property Practice), Peter Dunn

(Morton Dunn), Justine Linley (City of Ballarat), David Wright

(Colliers Ballarat), Rodney Walton (Haymes Paint),

Janet Dore (Chair, Committee for Ballarat), Melanie Robertson

(CEO, Committee for Ballarat), Committee for Ballarat

Secretariat Support

Another member who contributed to the project during

2016–17 was Lynne McLennan (UFS Dispensaries), who

was the inaugural chair of the project team.

21

connectivityFollowing a strategic review of its projects, the Committee

for Ballarat Board revised its project structure to more

closely align with its strategic plan.

In late 2016, the Connectivity project team was established

to build on the work undertaken by the former FastTrack

Ballarat project. Its project brief is broader, with a

focus on three areas of connectivity – rail, road and

telecommunications.

Its objectives are to

• advocate for an integrated approach to transport

planning that will deliver better transport infrastructure

and connectivity

• futureproof our road and rail services through early

planning and staged investment by successive state and

federal governments

• secure a commitment for funding for mobile towers to

improve mobile coverage and deliver a more reliable

service across our region

• ensure that NBN is available to businesses and

individuals in the region to support productivity and

efficiency gains.

Progress

The initial work of the project group has focused on

information gathering, with a range of briefings from/

meetings with government and opposition members,

Department of Planning, Transport and Local Infrastructure,

the Melbourne Metro Rail Authority, the Westgate Tunnel

Project and the Rail Futures Institute. A goal achievement

plan has also been produced.

Preparation also commenced on the 59-minute rail service

campaign, which is expected to be launched in September

2017. Materials are also being prepared for advocacy in the

lead-up to the state and federal elections.

Other important developments which Committee

for Ballarat has advocated for over a long period of

time include:

• Mobile Connectivity

In April 2017, the state government announced funding

to provide better mobile connectivity along Victoria’s

regional rail corridors. It is expected that trials will

commence in August 2017.

• Black Spot program

Once the federal government’s Black Spot program is

fully delivered, Ballarat and most of the region will be

well covered from a mobile connectivity perspective.

• National Broadband Network (NBN)

With the NBN having been rolled out for some time now

in Ballarat, the city is now a well-connected community,

with high-speed broadband available across most areas.

This is an important selling point for Ballarat and provides

a competitive advantage.

22

what’s nextThe future focus of the Connectivity team will be

in the following areas:

• Launching the #59minuteballarat campaign

• Receiving commitment from government to

undertake a feasibility study into the full duplication

of the Ballarat–Melbourne rail corridor

• Developing an election strategy for the state election

in 2018

• Including the Committees for Cities’ advocacy for regional

linkages as part of the feasibility study for an airport link

The Board extends its thanks to the following

project team members for their contribution to

the Connectivity project.

Project team at 30 June 2017

Chair: Nick Beale (ODP Associates)

Members: Tony Chew (community Member),

Terry Demeo (City of Ballarat), Eugene Duffy (The Courier),

Torben Fink-Jensen (Alstom), Nick Grylewicz (Integra Group),

Glenn McKenzie (CDC Ballarat), Bill Mundy (CfB Community

member), Ewen Nevett (VicRoads), Ron Selkirk (Selkirk

Pty Ltd), Janet Dore (Chair, Committee for Ballarat),

Melanie Robertson (CEO, Committee for Ballarat),

Committee for Ballarat Secretariat Support

23

Innovative solutions

to environmental

challenges will

encourage sustainable

growth to support

economic and social

wellbeing across our

region.

our focus1. Promoting sustainable development that meets the needs of the present generation

without compromising the liveability of future generations.

2. Working with key partners to promote innovation across all sectors and transition Ballarat

into a new economy based on new technologies, innovation and creativity.

3. Positioning Ballarat with a competitive advantage in the bio-resources sector.

4. Supporting and encouraging business diversity for existing and new investment opportunities.

5. Inspiring our community to live sustainably.

our work: sustainability & innovation

The Issue Our Vision

Water resources in our region are limited and will be further stretched as our population grows.

We need a secure and sustainable water strategy for our region to support growth and investment.

Our energy needs are growing and, with significant environmental challenges related to carbon emissions, continued use of fossil fuels is not a sustainable option.

We want to position Ballarat as a leader in sustainable energy and achieve funding to evaluate alternative renewable energy sources such as bioenergy, wind and solar.

Our region is facing significant environmental challenges in the areas of waste management, with our landfill facilities at capacity and not a sustainable option.

We need a sustainable solution to regional waste management by driving research and development and innovation through technology that will result in new industries, new jobs and new ways of living.

Regional economic drivers are changing; we need to capitalise on this opportunity.

We want to diversify the economy and support the transition to advanced new-age manufacturing so we are ready for the future.

Our region is facing significant environmental challenges as a result of climate change.

We will communicate and strongly advocate on climate change initiatives that support sustainable environmental, social and economic growth in our region.

There is a lack of long-term planning for our significant projected population growth.

We need to ensure our civic leaders adopt long-term strategic planning processes that transcend political cycles.

24

thought leaders

opinion piecesThe following articles form part of a series of opinion

pieces by Committee for Ballarat Chair, Janet Dore, and

Committee for Ballarat CEO, Melanie Robertson.

Wake up, Australia

Published 15 June 2017, The Courier, Ballarat

Is our energy transformation about to happen? Committee

for Ballarat believes we are at a positive tipping point,

especially in our region. We are witnessing the harnessing

of wind, solar and waste for alternative energy across

Victoria and the investment will continue with the state

government’s reverse auction process, which will be

underway by the end of 2017. Householders know only

too well how costs for electricity and gas have been rising

but now businesses are being hit with huge hikes as they

approach energy contract renewals…

The Finkel review and power: Big changes needed

Published 24 June 2017, The Courier, Ballarat

Can the Finkel review finally break the deadlock on energy

policy in Australia after a decade of bickering and inaction?

There is no more pressing issue currently in Australian

politics than energy. Our Prime Minister has even

described our current energy predicament as a crisis. It is a

crisis that impacts us all…

To read all of these opinion pieces in full, go to

http://www.committeeforballarat.com/opinion-pieces.php

news articlesRegion set for wind boom

It was stated in an article in The Courier on 18 February

2017 that the Central Highlands region stands to be the

big winner from the Victorian government’s ambitious new

emissions target, which aims to slash the state’s emissions

by 15–20 per cent on 2005 levels by 2020.

The target, which stipulates 25 per cent of energy

production comes from renewable sources by 2020, puts

the region in the box seat as the potential home of wind

energy for the state…

Taking lead in wind energy

Ballarat is seeking to lead the way in renewable energy

with plans to develop a wind turbine technician TAFE

course, the first of its kind in Australia.

Federation University Australia, in discussion with

Committee for Ballarat, has applied for funding under the

state government’s Energy Jobs Fund to develop the new

training facility.

In The Courier on 17 April 2017, Committee’s CEO,

Melanie Robertson, said the training centre would provide

opportunities for Victoria, Australia and the wider Asia–

Pacific region...

To read more these news articles in full, go to

http://www.committeeforballarat.com/latest-news.php

25

briefings and forumsDuring 2016–17, briefings and forums were held

for members to inform them of issues that were

important to this region. In relation to Sustainability

and Innovation, a Pioneering Communities workshop

with Søren Hermansen was held and there was

a presentation on the state of Australia’s energy

market.

For more details on these events, turn to page 43.

innovation and sustainability Following a strategic review of its projects, the Committee

for Ballarat Board revised its project structure to more

closely align with its strategic plan.

In late 2016, the Innovation and Sustainability project team

was established to build on the work undertaken by the

former Sustainable Living task team as well as to focus on

and encourage innovation.

Its objectives are to

• promote sustainable development that meets the needs

of the present generation without compromising the

liveability of future generations

• work with key partners to promote innovation across

all sectors and to position Ballarat as a leader in

technologies, innovation and creativity

• position Ballarat as a centre of excellence in the

sustainable energy/renewable energy sector

• support and encourage business diversity in existing

and new investment opportunities

• lead Committee members’ application of sustainable

business practice.

projects

26

Progress

The initial work of the project group has focused on

information gathering with briefings from the Department

of Environment, Land, Water and Planning on sustainability

and from Regional Development Victoria on government

policy and support for innovation.

A detailed goal achievement plan to deliver on its

objectives has also been produced.

Progress to date is follows:

• Committee for Ballarat has signed up as a foundation

member of the state government’s TAKE 2 pledge

program, which is an initiative to reach net zero

emissions by 2050. Committee for Ballarat has also

encouraged its members to sign up.

• A local stakeholder group has been formed comprising

Committee for Ballarat, Regional Development Victoria,

Federation University Australia, City of Ballarat and the

Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning

to discuss how we best position our region to attract

renewable energy projects and jobs.

• Funding is actively being sought for a feasibility study for

establishing a course at Federation University Australia to

train technicians for the renewable energy sector.

• Discussions were held with members regarding the

current high costs of energy due to the volatility of

the energy market and the procurement mechanisms

available through Sustainability Victoria for businesses

to reduce their energy costs.

• Opinion pieces have been published in The Courier on

waste to energy (“City Can Be a Centre of Excellence

for Waste”) and the Finkel review (“Power Policy: Big

Changes Needed”).

what’s nextThe future focus of the Innovation and Sustainability

team will be in the following areas:

• Attracting significant investment from the renewable

energy sector into the region

• Preparing material to showcase Ballarat’s innovative

manufacturing sector

• Developing an election strategy for the state election

in 2018

• Advocating for the development of a renewable energy

training centre – linking skills development to jobs

The Board extends its thanks to the following project

team members for their contribution to the Innovation

and Sustainability project.

Project team at 30 June 2017

Chair: Todd Walker (Federation University Australia)

Members: Tony Chew (CfB Community member), Stephen

Griffin (J B Cameron Pty Ltd), Jeff Haydon (Central Highlands

Water), Craig Hurley (Federation University Australia),

David Matthey (McCain Foods), Don Robinson (Harwood

Andrews Lawyers), David Sanders (Smart Options), Peter

Tadgell (TGM Group), Janet Dore (Chair, Committee for

Ballarat), Melanie Robertson (CEO, Committee for Ballarat),

Committee for Ballarat Secretariat Support.

27

Better health and wellbeing for all

residents will build healthier and

more liveable communities across

our region.

our focus1. Promoting and celebrating active and responsible citizenship.

2. Strengthening regional leadership

3. Working with key partners to improve the physical and social health

of all residents.

4. Promoting Ballarat as a vibrant and progressive regional city and region

and a great place to live, work and invest.

our work: community & health

The Issue Our Vision

Our community is facing increasing gaps in social health with growing levels of joblessness, youth disengagement, homelessness and a lack of affordable housing

We need to contribute to initiatives that foster vibrant, diverse, connected and inclusive communities.

Our CBD does not meet the needs of today’s generation – it is lacking in vibrancy. Our buildings and spaces are underdeveloped and there is a lack of A-grade office space.

We need redevelopments that capture the uniqueness and heritage of our existing buildings but present a city that is progressive and vibrant.

There is a lack of coordination between key players in master planning processes

We need an integrated approach to master planning that involves key players and delivers the best possible overall outcomes for the wider community.

The demand in our existing health infrastructure and services is growing and will only get worse as our regional population increases

We need to find innovative ways to deliver quality health services to our growing regional community with a focus on technology that will enable greater levels of in-home care and reducing dependency on existing infrastructure and services.

28

thought leaders

opinion piecesThe following articles form part of a series of opinion

pieces by Committee for Ballarat Chair, Janet Dore,

and Committee for Ballarat CEO, Melanie Robertson.

Homelessness

Published 7 October 2016, The Courier, Ballarat

Are we expecting too much from local government?

Ratepayers are restive. There is a limit to the number of

projects the City of Ballarat ratepayers can be expected to

fund. Increasing costs have been driven by four main trends.

First, other levels of government have foisted more onto

local councils because “these matters are best dealt with

at the local level”…

Why we must be future focused

Published 6 April 2016, The Courier (online), Ballarat

Our past is important but the future is of critical concern to

younger people who are increasingly choosing to live here,

despite reports that population estimates are apparently not

being realised.

Our society has much healing to undertake following

Royal Commission revelations about unspeakable abuse

and cruelty within religious institutions and in people’s

own homes.

Part of that healing surely requires us to promote Ballarat’s

ongoing advantages for our children, families and those who

are attracted to this fantastic region...

It’s time we realised we’re all on the same team

Published 4 February 2017, The Courier, Ballarat

Once again we are witnessing division and animosity

within our community about football and demonstrating to

governments and investors that we cannot see the benefits

for the long term. Committee for Ballarat is proud of its

member company, Troons, for stepping up – along with

other stalwarts of the city – to ensure ongoing commitment

and viability of the Roosters.

The willingness of Peter Wilson and his team to offer

professional and proven business skills is indicative of a

commitment above and beyond what should be expected

and it is tragic for our community to see that lost…

To read all of these opinion pieces in full, go to

http://www.committeeforballarat.com/opinion-pieces.php

29

news articlesForum to shape our future

Ballarat female leaders are calling for more women and a

diversity of cultures to step up to the helm.

“We punch above our weight in Ballarat with the number

of women we have in leadership positions,” high-profile

Ballarat leader Judy Verlin said in The Courier on 11

February 2017. “But we have to continue to nurture the

next wave that is coming through.”…

Connecting city’s leaders of tomorrow

A stellar line-up of Ballarat leaders will join together to

answer the question “What’s the secret to a successful

business?” at the Connecting Conference for office

professionals in March.

The conference is open to every regional business in

western Victoria, with a particular focus on empowering

support staff.

“I’m hoping this conference will kickstart a bit of discussion

and debate and stir things up a bit because that’s what

Ballarat does really well,” Lynne McLennan, CEO of UFS

Dispensaries, said in The Courier on 15 February 2017…

Equality roadshow rolls in

Inclusiveness for all community members will be at the

heart of the LGBTI Equality Roadshow rolling into Ballarat

next week.

On Wednesday 15 March 2017, the Victorian Gender and

Sexuality Commissioner Ro Allen will be in the city to give

a presentation on the state’s LGBTI Equality agenda as part

of the roadshow being delivered across regional and rural

Victoria and has requested a meeting with community and

business members from Ballarat…

To read the articles in full, go to

http://www.committeeforballarat.com/cms/news-edit.

php?newsID=129

briefings and forumsDuring 2016–17, under the pillar of Community and

Health, briefings and forums were held for members

to inform them of issues that were important to

this region. A presentation was given by Victoria’s

Gender and Sexuality Commissioner on the state’s

LGBTI agenda and the Connecting Conference for

office professionals was held in March 2017.

For more details on these events, turn to pages

37 & 43.

30

revitalising the acu-hospital precinct (rahp) The RAHP project is focused on the development of

an iconic health and education precinct that will attract

high-quality professionals to meet our future health and

education needs.

The health and education precinct covers the area that

includes the Australian Catholic University’s Ballarat

Campus, Ballarat Health Services, St John of God Ballarat

Hospital, Ballarat Clarendon College’s Mair Street campus

and the south-east area of Lake Wendouree.

An enlivened health and education precinct has the

capacity to reposition Ballarat and the region in the minds

of prospective residents, businesses, investors, students

and workers.

Progress

• Following RAHP project team requests for

improvements to pedestrian safety and amenity in

the area, Council and VicRoads have submitted a range

of business cases for state government funding of

infrastructure works in the precinct.

• Council will release the Ballarat Health and Education

Precinct – Background and Issues Paper in early July.

This is the next important step towards a new long-

term plan for development of the precinct. All residents

and stakeholders will be invited to provide feedback.

In recent times, the key focus of the RAHP project team

has been on the delivery of a precinct structure plan

for the health and education precinct. Once the current

discussion paper is finalised and its recommendations

incorporated into the City of Ballarat Planning Scheme,

the RAHP project team will review its role/focus.

The Committee for Ballarat Board extends its thanks

to the members of the RAHP project team for their

important ongoing work in developing an iconic

medical, health and education precinct for our region.

Project team at 30 June 2017

Acting Chair: Dale Fraser (Ballarat Health Services)

Members: Terry Demeo (City of Ballarat), Adam Ryan

(Ballarat Clarendon College), Joe Fleming (Australian

Catholic University Ballarat Campus), James Guy (City

of Ballarat), Melanie Robertson (CEO Committee for

Ballarat), Committee for Ballarat Secretariat Support.

Others who contributed to the project during 2016–17

included Michael Krieg (St John of God Ballarat Hospital)

and Samantha Magill (Regional Development Victoria).

projects

31

maximising ehealth technology (met)This project was established by Committee for Ballarat

in conjunction with the then-Grampians Medicare Local.

Its focus was on improving health outcomes, supporting

patients and reducing demand on existing health

infrastructure and services by looking at world’s best

practice in eHealth technology to deliver innovative and

sustainable solutions for our region.

Since its establishment in December 2012, the Maximising

eHealth Technology (MeT) project has supported a range

of important outcomes and achievements. These have

included the bringing together of the various health and

related agencies across the Grampians and Wimmera

regions, which has resulted in a greater sharing of

information, collaboration and alignment of objectives in

eHealth. Significant inroads have also been made in areas

such as secure messaging.

Following a project review in late 2016, and meetings/

discussions with various stakeholders, it was agreed that

the most effective way of delivering the best outcomes for

Ballarat and the region was to take a more strategic rather

than project-based approach. Following a recommendation

to the Board, the MeT project team was wound up in

June 2017.

Regional leadership and collaboration spanning health,

technology, research, big data and innovation will continue

to be pursued across various stakeholder organisations.

Opportunities to bring regional eHealth professionals

together on a periodic basis to share information in a

forum or symposium-style event are also likely to be

advanced.

The Board extends its thanks to the following project

team members for their work in looking at ways of

using new technology to improve health outcomes.

MeT project team at May 2017

Chair: Dr Helen Thompson (Federation University Australia)

Members: Michele Breed (Western Vic PHN), Christopher

Crawley (Grampians Rural Health Alliance), Ross Davey,

Terry Dunn (St John of God Hospital), Donna Fahie

(Western Vic PHN), George Fong (Lateral Plains P/L), Kate

Nolan (Ballarat Health Services), Robyn Reeves (Ballarat

Community Health), Mike McDonald (Grampians Rural

Health Alliance), Melanie Robertson (Committee for

Ballarat), Chris Scott (Wimmera Health Care), Pat Standen

(Department of Health and Human Services), Jason

Trethowan (Western Vic PHN), Committee for Ballarat

Secretariat Support)

32

community and healthCommunity and Health is the third pillar in Committee’s

strategic plan. While Committee traditionally – and

importantly – has had a strong focus on community

leadership through its Leadership Ballarat and Western

Region program, it was felt that community health and

wellbeing needed a sharper focus.

A new project team, formed in June 2017, will focus on

vibrant and healthy communities with the objectives of:

• working with key partners to improve the physical

and social health of all residents

• promoting Ballarat as a vibrant and progressive

regional city and region and a great place to live,

work and invest.

The project team will build on the momentum of The

Moment is Now, a video as part of Committee’s Brand

Ballarat campaign to promote and celebrate what makes

our city and region special and unique. The video was

designed to instil a sense of pride in Ballarat and send a

message of positivity and confidence, reminding people

of all the great aspects Ballarat has to offer while showing

the city in a new light.

The Board extends its thanks to the following project

team members for their work in fostering vibrant and

healthy communities.

Project Team Members at 30 June 2017

Chair: Robyn Reeves (Ballarat Community Health)

Members: Peta Clark (Community Member), Daryl

Clifton (Community Member), Sheree Collins (Community

Member), Brett Macdonald (Community Member), Melanie

Robertson (Committee for Ballarat), Janet Dore (Committee

for Ballarat), Committee for Ballarat Secretariat Support

33

To grow and develop as a region, we need strong leaders who are

able to unpack the complex issues we face and work together to

create community action.

Every year, up to 30 emerging leaders from across Ballarat and the

Western Region participate in the Leaders Forum. It is a journey of self-

discovery, skills development and enlightenment. Through experiential

learning, they grapple with the big issues, topics and themes at a local,

state, national and international level.

LBWR, under the auspice of Committee for Ballarat, has been running

the Leaders Forum for 12 years. In that time, more than 300 people

have put in over 175 hours each a year to learn about themselves and

the impact they can have on their region.

More than anything else, the Leaders Forum is about developing

networks across our region. Graduates are encouraged to maintain

positive, lifelong relationships with the program and their communities

through the Leaders in Action (LIA) alumni network, which now

numbers nearly 300. The opportunities to tap in to, collaborate and

cross-pollinate across this network are endless, and we are enjoying

seeing the work our LIA undertake across

the community.

our focus1. Providing a high-quality leadership program

that strengthens regional leadership.

2. Catalysing active citizenship.

3. Providing ongoing professional and personal

development of our Leaders in Action.

4. Contributing to the implementation

of initiatives that foster the social and

economic development of vibrant

communities.

leadership ballarat + western region (lbwr)

34

our performance2016–17 Leaders Forum

• 23 participants graduated from the 2016 Leaders

Forum program.

• 27 participants are currently completing the 2017

Leaders Forum program.

• Contributed to the 2016 Victorian Regional Community

Leadership Program (VRCLP) combined program day in

Melbourne, which brought together our leaders with

the other 10 programs across the state.

• Hosted the 2016 Leaders Forum graduation dinner,

which featured prominent community leader Craig

Lapsley as the guest speaker.

• Commenced accreditation discussions with Federation

University Business School and the Social Sciences unit.

• Developed a virtual learning environment to support

the program with a secure online platform for course

resources and discussion.

• Increased the focus on self-awareness with the

inclusion of the Life Styles Inventory (LSI) approach,

with multiple workshops facilitated by Garry Trotter

of SED Advisory.

Leaders in Action (LIA) – supporting our alumni through

professional development and networking

• Maintained monthly communication with alumni

via the LIA e-News, which promoted volunteering

opportunities and community projects.

• Created Activate Ballarat – an online network and series

of events that brings together newcomers to the region

and LIA to connect, share information about living

in Ballarat and explore opportunities to contribute to

the ongoing development of our community and the

region. During 2016–17, four sessions were held and

an estimated 150 people attended over the year.

• Provided opportunities for alumni to feed into the

development of strategic reviews at Central Highlands

Water and Visit Ballarat.

• 10 LIA are members of The Courier’s community

advisory group.

• 3 LIA are members of the Central Highlands

Regional Partnership.

• Created the Leaders in Action scholarship for an

emerging leader who would not otherwise be able

to cover the cost of participation in the program.

35

Community – supporting initiatives that help build

vibrant communities

• Held the Think Tank: Halving Homelessness community

consultation events and managed the Halving

Homelessness Network. More than 250 community

members engaged with the process and we have

continued to work with community members, the

homelessness sector and government departments to

develop new projects to tackle homelessness in Ballarat.

• Participated in the food security project coordinated by

Ballarat Community Health.

• Hosted the Rug Up Ballarat Winter Festival, a two-day

event in July 2016, which attracted more than 2000

people to the Ballarat Mining Exchange. The festival

also raised over $3000 for UnitingCare Ballarat’s

Breezeway meals for the homeless program. After

three successful years, we decided to bid farewell to

Rug Up. When we launched the festival in 2014, it filled

a void in the city’s winter events calendar; however,

that void has now been filled by Visit Ballarat’s Ballarat

Winter Festival (formerly Winterlude).

• Leaders Forum graduates and their families and friends

donated a record number of 220 gifts and 50 fruit cakes

(courtesy LIA Samantha Mackley of Daylesford Bakery) to

the Child and Family Services (CAFS) Christmas Appeal.

what’s ahead 1. We will continue to focus on building professional

development opportunities for our Leaders in Action

alumni group, developing an online platform for sharing

volunteer and community engagement opportunities.

2. We will act as a community catalyst through the

Activate Ballarat network and related professional

development opportunities for LIA and community

members.

staffingJennie Courtney was appointed as Executive Officer in

September 2016, with Chloe Biggin continuing to work

as the Program and Communications Officer.

lbwr committeeThe LBWR Committee, a sub-committee of the Committee

for Ballarat Board, oversees the strategic development

of LBWR. We thank everyone who contributed their time

and expertise to our committee this year. (For a list of

members, see page 9.)

lbwr sponsorsWe would not be able to run this program without the

support of our sponsors – the Victorian Government,

the City of Ballarat, The Courier, Moorabool Shire Council,

Pyrenees Shire Council and St John of God Ballarat Hospital.

36

our focus Our focus is to increase the knowledge and skills of office

professionals so that they are better equipped to provide

increased levels of support to business executives and their

organisations. Benefits of membership include personal

and professional development opportunities, information

sharing, increasing knowledge/awareness (particularly of

organisations, projects and activities in Ballarat and the

region) and networking.

Funding has been allocated in the 2017–18 Budget for

continued support of the group.

membershipMember organisations participating in Connect Networking

include Adroit Insurance Group, Ballarat Health Services,

Central Highlands Water, City of Ballarat, Federation

University Australia, Mars Chocolate Australia, Sovereign Hill,

St John of God Ballarat Hospital, Ballarat Community Health,

BGT Employment, Mercure Ballarat, Ballarat Grammar,

Ballarat Oncology and Haemotology Services, Bendigo Bank,

BJT Legal, CE Bartlett Pty Ltd, Nicholson Construction, Ray

White Ballarat, SED Consulting, UFS Dispensaries, Inspire HQ,

Elmstone Property Group, Kaufmann Property Consultants.

We welcome interest from other Committee member

organisations.

activities in 2016–17In keeping with its objectives, Connect Networking’s

program during the past financial year focused on personal

and professional development, information sharing and

networking.

A highlight of the year was the Connecting Conference,

Shaping Your Future: It Starts with You, which was held

in March 2017 and was attended by over 100 office

professionals from the region.

Feedback from the conference was very positive.

A snapshot of the results of the post-conference survey

is as follows:

• Overall value of the program to you professionally –

98% rated this as excellent or very good

• Overall rating of speakers/presenters – 100% rated this

as excellent or very good

• Relevance of topics covered – 98% rated this as

excellent or very good

• In relation to how well the conference met its

objectives of

- increasing knowledge and skills

- providing inspiring speakers/presenters

- providing an insight into what makes a successful

business partnership

- offering opportunities for networking

100% of respondents rated each of these as

very well or well

In planning the conference, the Connect Networking

planning committee not only wanted to provide a high-

quality program but also wanted to make it accessible

and affordable for office professionals in our region. We

achieved that.

connect networking

37

The support from sponsors was also an important factor

in the success of the conference. Thanks are extended to

Bolton’s, City of Ballarat, Federation University Australia,

Telstra Countrywide, Central Highlands Water, and

United Way.

Other activities during the year included:

Check the Pulse of Your Health, with UFS Dispensaries’

chief pharmacist, Bobby Mehta, sharing some tips about

maintaining good health, the importance of preventative

medicine and regular testing of key health indicators.

The use of smartphone apps for health checks was also

demonstrated.

Joshua Morris MP: Why Politics? Joshua Morris shared his

leadership journey and why he embarked on a political

career. He also spoke about his passion for Ballarat and the

region and his hopes for its future.

Using Images to Enhance Your Message. Noelene Gration,

from Ascend Public Relations and Communications,

facilitated the session, which provided an overview of

image creation software as well as some very practical and

useful tips for using images in business communication.

planning committeeWe wish to thank the planning committee for its

contribution to Connect Networking and for its

extraordinary work in staging a very successful

Connecting Conference.

Convenor: Gayle Adams (Committee for Ballarat)

Members: Anne McConnell (St John of God Ballarat

Hospital), Glenys Foy (City of Ballarat), Mariska Pelchen

(UFS), Tracey Rayner (Nicholson Construction), Susan Scott

(Federation University Australia), Rana Stollery (Federation

University Australia)

To read more about Connect Networking,

go to www.connectnetworking.com.au

Ballarat

Wednesday, 8 March 2017

Shaping Your Future – It Starts With You

38

our influence

key conversationsFederal and State Government

(and departments and agencies)

• Regular meetings with

- Federal Member for Ballarat, the Hon Catherine King

MP, Shadow Minister for Health

- State Member for Buninyong, Geoff Howard MP

- State Member for Wendouree, Sharon Knight MP

- State Member for Ripon, Louise Staley MP

- Member for Western Victoria in the Victorian

Legislative Council, Joshua Morris MLC

- Senator Jane Hume

• The Hon Jaala Pulford, Minister for Regional

Development

• The Hon Jacinta Allan MP, Minister for Public Transport

• The Hon Lily D’Ambrosio, Minister for Energy,

Environment and Climate Change

• The Hon Richard Wynne, Minister for Planning

• State Shadow Cabinet

• The Hon Gordon Rich-Phillips, Shadow Special Minister

of State

• The Hon David Hodgett, Shadow Minister for Transport

• Tim Smith, Shadow Parliamentary Secretary to the

Leader, Population Policy and Housing Affordability

• David Southwick, Shadow Minister for Innovation,

Shadow Minister for Energy Resources and Shadow

Minister for Renewables

• Representatives from RDV including James Flintoft,

Anthony Schinck, Mark Hogan and Mark Amos

• Mark Wild, CEO PTV

• Theo Taifalos, CEO V/Line

• Simon Corbell, Victoria’s Renewable Energy Advocate

• Craig Lapsley, Victorian Emergency Management

Commissioner

• Infrastructure Victoria

• Department of Environment, Water, Land and Planning

• Department of Transport

• Sustainability Victoria

• Clean Energy Council

• Melbourne Metro Rail Authority

• Regional Institute Australia

Local Government

• Regular meetings with the CEO, City of Ballarat

• Meetings with CEOs and mayors of regional councils

39

Stakeholders

• Meetings with members – individually, at project team

meetings, and at events

• Central Highlands Mayors and CEOs Forum

• Future Business Council

• Committee for Cities members

• Federation Business School Advisory Board

• Rail Futures Institute

• Local media

media interviews

ABC Radio

Interview with Melanie

Robertson regarding

Infrastructure Victoria’s draft

report – October 2016

ABC Radio

Interview with Melanie

Robertson regarding Wind

energy and training centre

– April 2017

ABC Radio

Interview with Melanie

Robertson regarding State

Budget – May 2017

WIN TV

Interview with Janet

Dore regarding Federal

Budget – May 2017

40

A selection of key interviews conducted

during 2016–17 were as follows:

member events

round table dinnersRound Table Dinners are a benefit of membership and have become a must-attend event on the Ballarat calendar. Our

high-calibre speakers, experts in their field, deliver engaging and thought-provoking addresses. These dinners also provide

a great opportunity for members and their guests to network with peers, gain and exchange ideas, challenge their thinking

and generate business interactions.

Diversity and Harmony in Our Communities

The Hon Linda Dessau AM, Governor of Victoria

Mercure Hotel and Convention Centre, 11 August 2016

At our Round Table Dinner on Thursday 11 August 2016 at the Mercure

Ballarat Hotel and Convention Centre, 140 members and guests heard

a most interesting keynote address from the guest speaker for the

evening, The Hon Linda Dessau AM, Governor of Victoria, where she

reflected on a number of topics relevant to Ballarat and Victoria.

The room looked stunning decorated in orange and black, and the

atmosphere was abuzz with the animated conversations of members as

they caught up with each other.

The Governor’s engaging speech covered the importance of both

sport and the arts to regional communities, the changing face of the

Victorian economy, Ballarat’s leadership in the health sector, the need

for diversity and social harmony in our communities, and the vital role

volunteering has in providing services.

It was also our great pleasure to announce and welcome new

Corporate member J B Cameron (Vic) Pty Ltd, represented by

Steve Griffin, and new Small Business members: Her Majesty’s

Theatre Ballarat, represented by Graeme Russell; Hstudios,

represented by Heath Worsley; and Leader Property Practice,

represented by Adrian Doyle.

41

The Important Attributes of Community Leadership

Craig Lapsley, Victorian Emergency Management

Commissioner

Mercure Ballarat Hotel and Convention Centre,

24 November 2016

The Round Table Dinner held on Thursday 24 November

2016 at the Mercure Ballarat Hotel and Convention

Centre incorporated the graduation of the participants of

the 2016 Leaders Forum. The 175 members and guests

were entertained by a most interesting session where

Commissioner Craig Lapsley was interviewed by LBWR Chair

Scott Williams and graduate Keren Day. He emphasised that

leaders needed to be calm in stressful situations as well as

possess personal qualities that kept people engaged and

willing to participate in community life.

The room looked amazing with its decorations of orange,

blue, green and black, and the atmosphere was electric

with the excitement of the LBWR participants graduating

from their course, the anticipation of the interview with

Craig Lapsley, and the liveliness of members’ conversations

as they caught up with each other.

As well as enjoying the presentation of the certificates to

the graduates, members also welcomed new Corporate

members the Commonwealth Bank, represented by

Brett Chappell, and IBM Australia, represented by Sofia

Fiusco; and new Small Business member Mees Partners,

represented by Peter Mees.

The Australian Economy in the Trump Era

Craig James, Chief Economist, CommSec

RACV Goldfields Resort, 23 March 2017

The first Round Table Dinner for 2017 was held on Thursday

23 March at the RACV Goldfields Resort in Creswick. The

Commonwealth Bank sponsored the evening and 120

members and guests heard an engaging keynote address

from the guest speaker for the dinner, the chief economist

of CommSec, Craig James, whose topic was “The Australian

Economy in the Trump Era”.

The grand ballroom was lit up with orange uplights and

the tables were decorated in dramatic orange, yellow

and black. As guests entered the ballroom, it was soon

humming with laughter and the lively conversations of

members as they caught up with each other.

Craig’s speech covered the state of the global economy

and its predicted future and he concluded that Australia

is faring reasonably well in these times and that should

continue. He also believes that Ballarat’s economic future is

reasonably secure as well.

It was also our great pleasure to announce our new and

reappointed Community members for 2017–18. They

are Lisa Anderson, Daryl Clifton, Sheree Collins, Brett

Macdonald, Tony Chew and Peta Clark. Fittingly, we also

welcomed new Corporate member RACV Goldfields Resort,

who was an excellent host for the night.

The culmination of the presentations was to award Selkirk

Pty Ltd with its Executive membership certificate.

42

briefings and forums

Western Distributor Project Breakfast Briefing 10 November 2016

Jim Carden, Director, Communications and Engagement at the Western Distributor Authority

gave a presentation on the Western Distributor project, which will provide a much-needed

second river crossing as an alternative to the West Gate Bridge. This project will boost jobs

and economic development in Ballarat as a result of quicker and more reliable travel times.

Ballarat Line Upgrade Project Breakfast Briefing 15 February 2017

Evan Tattersall, CEO of the Melbourne Metro Rail Authority – the authority appointed by the state

government in November last year to oversee the $518 million Ballarat Line Upgrade project – gave

a breakfast presentation to brief members on the progress of the upgrade works and timings.

Pioneering Communities Workshop with Søren Hermansen 23 February 2017

Committee for Ballarat was fortunate to have Søren Hermansen, renowned Danish renewable

energy pioneer, facilitate the Samsø Energy Academy’s workshop that he developed as head of

the academy that works with communities to become renewable energy self-sufficient.

LGBTI Equality Roadshow Breakfast 15 March 2017

The Victorian Gender and Sexuality Commissioner, Ro Allen, gave a breakfast presentation on

the state’s LGBTI Equality agenda and outlined the purpose of the roadshow, which was to

reduce discrimination and promote inclusion of LGBTI people in everyday rural and regional life.

Energy Market Breakfast Briefing 6 April 2017

Carl Daley from SavvyPlus Consulting briefed members on the energy industry in Australia

and provided suggestions for how Committee for Ballarat can influence and advocate for a

more efficient energy market, and how businesses can reduce their energy costs in a

volatile market.

West Gate Tunnel Project Breakfast Briefing 23 June 2017

Paul Smith, Manager Traffic and Network Planning at the Western Distributor Authority,

provided a further update on the West Gate Tunnel Project, which included an overview

of key features and milestones and the benefits of the tunnel for Ballarat and the region.

43

financial reportas at 30 june 2017

44

Statement by Members of the Committee 45

Income Statement 46

Balance Sheet 47

Statement of Changes in Equity 48

Statement of Cashflows 49

Notes to the Financial Statements 50

Detailed Income Statement 55

In the opinion of Committee, the financial report as set out on pages 45 to 59:

1. Presents a true and fair view of the financial position of the Committee for Ballarat Incorporated as at 30 June 2017 and

its performance for the year ended on that date in accordance with the Australian Accounting Standards, mandatory

professional reporting requirements, and other pronouncements of the Australian Accounting Standards Board.

2. At the date of this statement, there are reasonable grounds to believe that the Committee for Ballarat Incorporated will

be able to pay its debts as and when they fall due.

3. The Committee for Ballarat Incorporated has operated in accordance with its rules and the Associations Incorporation

Reform Act 2012.

This statement is made in accordance with a resolution of Committee and is signed

for and on behalf of the Committee by:

Janet Dore Melanie Robertson

Chair Secretary

Signed: 20 September 2017

At Ballarat

statement by members of the committee

45

Note2017

$2016

$

Revenues from Ordinary Activities 2 928,709 960,537

Expenses from Ordinary Activities 3 (837,288) (913,715)

Net Profit from Ordinary Activities 91,421 46,822

Other Comprehensive Income

Transfer to VRCLP 4 - 75,749

Net Comprehensive Income (Loss) Attributable to the Entity 91,421 (28,927)

The accompanying notes form part of this financial report.

income statementfor the year ended 30 june 2017

46

Note2017

$2016

$

Current Assets

Cash and Cash Equivalents 5 1,075,679 883,955

Receivables 6 332,450 286,983

Other Current Assets 7 2,084 2,084

Total Current Assets 1,410,213 1,173,022

Non-Current Assets

Property, Plant and Equipment 8 12,603 23,479

Total Non-Current Assets 12,603 23,479

Total Assets 1,422,816 1,196,501

Current Liabilities

Payables 9 66,334 21,967

Tax Liabilities 10 80,414 47,105

Employee Entitlements 32,759 8,147

Income in Advance 531,843 500,549

Scholarship Funds 42,021 38,680

Total Current Liabilities 753,371 616,448

Non-Current Liabilities

Employee Entitlements – 2,029

Total Non-Current Liabilities – 2,029

Total Liabilities 753,371 618,477

Net Assets 669,445 578,024

Members’ Funds

Retained Profits 669,445 578,024

Total Members’ Funds 669,445 578,024

The accompanying notes form part of this financial report.

balance sheetas at 30 june 2017

47

Note2017

$2016

$

Total Equity at the Beginning of the Year 578,024 606,951

Profit (Loss) for the Year 91,421 46,822

Transfer to VRCLP 4 – (75,749)

Total Equity at the End of the Year 669,445 578,024

The accompanying notes form part of this financial report.

statement in changes in equityfor the year ended 30 june 2017

48

Note2017

$2016

$

Cashflows from Operating Activities

Receipts from Customers 892,062 1,016,497

Payments to Suppliers (710,360) (936,534)

Interest Received 22,472 29,841

Interest Paid (2,002) (1,845)

Cash Flows Provided by Operating Activities 11 202,172 107,959

Cashflows from Investing Activities

Payments for Property, Plant and Equipment (10,448) (5,327)

(10,448) (5,327)

Cashflows from Financing Activities

Transfer to VRCLP – (75,749)

– (75,749)

Net Increase in Cash Held 191,724 26,883

Cash Held at the Beginning of the Year 883,955 857,072

Cash Held at the End of the Year 5 1,075,679 883,955

The accompanying notes form part of this financial report.

statement of cashflowsfor the year ended 30 june 2017

49

notes to the financial statementsfor the year ended 30 june 2017

note 1: summary of significant accounting policies

a) Basis of Presentation

This financial report is a special purpose financial report

prepared in order to satisfy the financial reporting

requirements of the Associations Incorporation Reform

Act 2012 (Victoria). Committee has determined that the

Association is not a reporting entity.

The financial report has been prepared on an accruals

basis and is based on historic costs and does not take

into account changing money values or, except where

stated specifically, current valuations of non-current

assets.

The following significant accounting policies, which

are consistent with the previous period, unless stated

otherwise, have been adopted in the preparation of this

financial report.

Comparative figures have been adjusted to conform with

changes in presentation for the current financial year.

b) Income Tax

The Association has prepared its income tax returns by

reference to the application of the principle of mutuality

to the revenue and expenses of Committee.

The principle of mutuality is a common-law principle

arising from the premise that individuals cannot profit

from themselves.

Accordingly, receipts from members are deemed to

be mutual income and not subject to income tax, and

expenses in connection with mutual activities are

therefore not deductible for taxation purposes.

All other receipts and payments are classified in

accordance with taxation legislation.

c) Property, plant and equipment

Office equipment is carried at cost less, where

applicable, any accumulated depreciation.

The carrying amount of fixed assets is reviewed annually

by members of Committee to ensure it is not in excess of

the recoverable amount of these assets.

The recoverable amount is assessed on the basis of

expected net cash flows, which will be received from

the asset’s employment and subsequent disposal. The

expected net cash flows have not been discounted to their

present values in determining the recoverable amounts.

The depreciation amount of all fixed assets above $1,000

in value are depreciated over the useful lives of the

assets to the Association commencing from the time the

asset is held ready for use. Any assets less than $1,000

are expensed in the year that they are purchased.

The average depreciation rate is 30% for office

equipment.

50

d) Revenue

Revenue is accounted for on an accrual basis when

it is earned.

e) For the purposes of the balance sheet, and statement

of cash flows, cash includes cash on hand and in banks

and term deposit investments.

f) Leadership Ballarat and Western Region received some

in-kind payments during the year from sponsors, which

are not reflected in the accounts. This was with respect

to catering, guest speakers, learning partners and room

hire on those program days, and it is estimated that

there was $58,025 of in-kind payments made to the

organisation for the financial year.

g) Funding in Advance includes memberships for the

2017–18 financial year and also grants that relate to the

2017–18 financial year for the LBWR program.

h) During the financial year, Committee received donations

to the Peter Davies Scholarship Fund amounting to the

value of $6,390.

i) Liabilities for employee entitlements, including annual

leave and long service leave, are expected to be settled

wholly within 12 months of the reporting date, and long

service leave accrued with a service period of seven

years will be classified as a current liability.

note 2: revenue Note

2017 $

2016 $

Operating Activities

Memberships/Course Fees 620,375 599,117

Grant Funding 174,064 163,396

Sponsorships 46,500 47,050

Other Income 65,287 121,133

906,226 930,696

Non-Operating Revenue

Interest Received 22,483 29,841

22,483 29,841

Total Revenue 928,709 960,537

note 3: profit from ordinary activities Expenses Include:

Depreciation 19,936 10,576

Loss on Disposal of Assets 1,388 2,280

Salary and Wage Expenditure 345,798 395,348

51

note 4: transfer to vrclp Note

2017 $

2016 $

Transfer to VRCLP as a Result of the Entity Being Incorporated as a Separate Legal Entity

– 75,749

note 5: cash assets Cash at Bank – Committee for Ballarat 371,385 137,949

Investment Accounts 681,954 724,037

Online Bank Accounts 22,340 21,969

1,075,679 883,955

note 6: receivables Trade Debtors 327,342 281,886

Interest Receivable 5,108 5,097

332,450 286,983

note 7: other current assets Prepaid Expenditure – Rental Bond 2,084 2,084

2,084 2,084

52

note 9: payables Credit Card 3,876 533

Sundry Creditors 62,458 21,434

66,334 21,967

note 10: tax liabilities GST Payable and Other Tax Payables 80,414 47,105

note 8: property plant and equipment Note

2017 $

2016 $

Leasehold Improvements 19,967 19,967

Less Accumulated Depreciation (12,479) (7,488)

7,488 12,479

Office Equipment 66,028 71,882

Less Accumulated Depreciation (60,913) (60,882)

5,115 11,000

12,603 23,479

Movements in Carrying Value

Balance at Beginning of Year 23,479 31,008

Additions 10,448 5,327

Depreciation and Amortisation Expenses (19,936) (10,576)

Written-Down Value of Assets Disposed of (1,388) (2,280)

Closing Balance at End of Year 12,603 23,479

53

note 11: cash flow information Note

2017 $

2016 $

Reconciliation of Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities to Operating Surplus

91,421 46,822

Non cash flows in profit from ordinary activities

Depreciation 19,936 10,576

Loss on Sale of Assets 1,388 2,280

Changes in Assets and Liabilities

(Increase)/Decrease in Receivables (45,456) 8,117

(Increase)/Decrease in Prepayments – –

(Increase)/Decrease in Interest Receivable (11) (5,097)

(Decrease)/Increase in Income in Advance 31,294 82,781

(Decrease)/Increase in Creditors 44,367 (49,974)

(Decrease)/Increase in Tax Payable 33,309 27,580

(Decrease)/Increase in Employee Entitlements 22,583 (20,218)

(Decrease)/Increase in Scholarship Funds 3,341 5,092

Net Cash Provided by Operating Activities 202,172 107,959

54

Note2017

$2016

$

Income

Members' subscriptions

Executive 169,335 157,500

Corporate Gold 57,970 75,829

Corporate 241,292 237,108

Small Business 25,528 18,375

Sponsorships 46,500 47,050

Funding Grants 174,064 163,396

Round Table Dinners 15,524 10,730

Course Fees 126,250 110,305

Interest – Bank 22,483 29,841

Brand Ballarat – 70,010

Sundry Income 49,763 40,393

928,709 960,537

Expenditure

Accounting 23,000 22,400

Advertising 14,494 26,032

Annual Report 6,002 11,378

Audit Report 4,050 5,700

Bank Charges 775 630

Catering 7,796 6,896

Chair's Luncheon and Other Expenses 12,380 20,896

Consulting Fees 56,634 55,129

Conferences and Seminars 9,493 7,013

Depreciation 19,936 10,576

detailed income statementfor the year ended 30 june 2017

55

Note2017

$2016

$

Expenditure

Employee Entitlements 22,583 (19,499)

Graduation 9,981 –

Insurance 6,279 8,733

Legal Costs 400 2,920

LIA Expenses 6,211 10,018

Advocacy 3,887 –

Loss on Sale of Fixed Assets 1,388 2,280

Meeting and Conference Costs 9,881 8,836

Member Informal Meetings 1,191 3,385

Office Supplies and Stationery 3,646 4,018

LBWR Opening and Closing Retreats 27,540 20,409

Postage 1,709 2,120

Professional Development 5,111 –

Program Dinner/10-Year Celebration – 7,277

Program Costs 44,152 39,707

Project Development

Community Events 2,000 10,205

Process Fitness Review – 8,300

Maximising e-Health Technology 102 230

Brand Ballarat – 72,167

Connectivity 143 –

Key Issues Workshop – 1,140

Connect Networking 32,296 4,095

CBD Revitalisation 179 –

Peter Doherty Award – 648

Peter Davies Scholarship 5,050 5,050

56

Note2017

$2016

$

Recruitment Costs 12,677 22,285

Repairs and Maintenance 14,906 17,655

Room Hire 2,087 200

Round Table Dinners 61,005 48,668

Salaries and Wages inc Superannuation 345,798 395,348

Serviced Office 24,354 28,381

Speaker Fees and Expenses 5,283 493

Subscriptions 7,521 3,626

Sundry Expenses 5,711 14,443

Telephone 10,006 10,963

Travelling Expenses 6,351 10,482

Website Expenses 3,300 2,482

837,288 913,715

Net Profit for Year 91,421 46,822

57

58

59

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