Ordinary Meeting of Council - City of Greater Bendigo · RECOMMENDATION That the Greater Bendigo...

MINUTES

Ordinary Meeting of Council

6.00pm Wednesday 19 April 2017

*** Broadcast live on Phoenix FM 106.7 ***

VENUE:

Reception Room,

Bendigo Town Hall,

Hargreaves Street, Bendigo

NEXT MEETING:

Wednesday 17 May 2017

Bendigo Town Hall

Copies of the City of Greater Bendigo Council’s Agendas & Minutes

can be obtained online at www.bendigo.vic.gov.au

http://www.bendigo.vic.gov.au/

This Council Meeting is conducted in accordance with Local Law No. 8. It is an offence for any person to engage in improper or disorderly conduct at the meeting.

Council Vision

Greater Bendigo - Working together to be Australia's most liveable regional city.

Council Values Council wants the community to continue to have reason to be proud of the city and will do this through:

Transparency - Information about Council decisions is readily available and easily understood;

Efficiency and effectiveness - Council provides services based on evidence of need and demonstrates continuous improvement in the delivery of services;

Inclusion and consultation - Council uses a range of engagement strategies to ensure community members can understand and take part in discussion that informs the development of new strategies and actions;

Clear decisive and consistent planning - In a rapidly growing municipality, Council undertakes to plan effectively for our long-term future;

Respect for community priorities and needs - Council will advocate for improved services for community members and will consider community impact and feedback the decisions it makes.

Themes 1. Planning for Growth

2. Presentation and Vibrancy

3. Productivity

4. Sustainability

5. Leadership and Good Governance

ORDINARY MEETING WEDNESDAY 19 APRIL 2017

ORDER OF BUSINESS:

ITEM PRECIS PAGE

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY 5

PRAYER 5

PRESENT 5

APOLOGIES 5

SUSPENSION OF STANDING ORDERS 5

PUBLIC QUESTION TIME 6

RESUMPTION OF STANDING ORDERS 6

CR WILLIAMS' REPORT 6

DECLARATIONS OF CONFLICT OF INTEREST 7

CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES 8

1. COMMUNITY PLAN 2017-2021 9

1.1 Draft Community Plan 2017-2021 for Exhibition 9

2. BUDGET FOR THE FINANCIAL YEAR ENDING 30 JUNE

2018

12

2.1 Proposed Budget for fhe Financial Year Ending 30 June

2018

12

3. PETITIONS AND JOINT LETTERS 23

4. PLANNING FOR GROWTH 24

4.1 Change To Advertising Sign Planning Controls at the

Kangaroo Flat Aquatic Leisure Centre, Bendigo Stadium

and Bendigo Tennis Centre - Planning Scheme

Amendment C233

24

4.2 347 Warrowitue-Forest Road, Heathcote - Use of Land for

Agriculture and Assoc Buildings and Works

34

4.3 CT000313 - Bendigo Soldiers Memorial Institute

Revitalisation Project

44

5. PRESENTATION AND VIBRANCY 51

5.1 Community Grants Round 2 2017 51

5.2 Farming Advisory Committee – Member Appointments 63

5.3 Bendigo Maubisse Friendship Committee - Review of

Instrument of Delegation

67

5.4 Junortoun Community Plan 2017-2021 79

5.5 Greater Bendigo Public Space Plan - Stage 2 Vision and

Conceptual Vision

83

6. PRODUCTIVITY 92

7. SUSTAINABILITY 93

7.1 Potential Sale of 85 Lomas Road Goornong - Post

Community Engagement February 2017

93

8. LEADERSHIP AND GOOD GOVERNANCE 101

8.1 Delegation to the Chief Executive Officer 101

8.2 Loan Borrowings 106

8.3 Record of Assemblies 109

8.4 Contracts Awarded Under Delegation 118

9. URGENT BUSINESS 120

10. NOTICES OF MOTION 120

11. COUNCILLORS' REPORTS 121

12. MAYOR'S REPORT 124

13. CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER'S REPORT 126

14. CONFIDENTIAL (SECTION 89) REPORTS 127

____________________________

CRAIG NIEMANN CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

Ordinary Meeting - 19 April 2017

PAGE 5

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY

PRAYER

PRESENT

Cr Margaret O'Rourke Cr Jennifer Alden Cr Matt Emond Cr George Flack Cr Rod Fyffe Cr Julie Hoskin Cr Andrea Metcalf Cr James Williams Cr Yvonne Wrigglesworth Mr Craig Niemann (Chief Executive Officer) Mr Michael Smyth (Acting Director, Corporate Performance) Mr Craig Lloyd (Director, Presentation and Assets) Mr Bernie O'Sullivan (Director, Strategy and Growth) Ms Vicky Mason (Director, Health and Wellbeing) Mr Peter Davies (Manager, Executive Services)

APOLOGIES

Ms Kerryn Ellis (Director, Corporate Performance)

SUSPENSION OF STANDING ORDERS

That Standing Orders be suspended to allow a presentation from Shaina Brook who has recently returned from a Rotary Exchange from Bendigo District 9800 to Brazil and has letter from the Mayor of Sete Lagoas, Minas Gerias, Brazil, Marcio Reinaldo Dias Moreira (which is presented in Portuguese and Shaina will translate into English) to our Mayor and the conduct of Public Question Time. RESOLUTION Moved Cr Fyffe, seconded Cr Williams. That Standing Orders be suspended to allow a presentation from Shaina Brook who has recently returned from a Rotary Exchange from Bendigo District 9800 to Brazil and has letter from the Mayor of Sete Lagoas, Minas Gerias, Brazil, Marcio Reinaldo Dias Moreira (which is presented in Portuguese and Shaina will translate into English) to our Mayor and the conduct of Public Question Time.

CARRIED


PAGE 6

PUBLIC QUESTION TIME

RESUMPTION OF STANDING ORDERS

That Standing Orders be resumed. RESOLUTION Moved Cr Fyffe, seconded Cr Flack. That Standing Orders be resumed.

CARRIED

CR WILLIAMS' REPORT

Cr Williams reported on his attendance at the following meetings and events:

Farming enterprise proposal at Diggora by Australian breeders

Balgownie Estate proposal for expansion

Met with Bendigo Stadium Board

Blessing and Awakening of the Dragon

Easter Festival and acknowledgement of the contribution of the Chinese community

Attendance at various exhibits throughout the Easter Carnival

Conveyed appreciation to the staff and volunteers involved in the Easter Festival

Met with the Bendigo Airport Committee


PAGE 7

DECLARATIONS OF CONFLICT OF INTEREST

Pursuant to Sections 77, 78 and 79 of the Local Government Act 1989 (as amended) direct and indirect conflict of interest must be declared prior to debate on specific items within the minutes; or in writing to the Chief Executive Officer before the meeting. Declaration of indirect interests must also include the classification of the interest (in circumstances where a Councillor has made a Declaration in writing, the classification of the interest must still be declared at the meeting), i.e. (a) direct financial interest (b) indirect interest by close association (c) indirect interest that is an indirect financial interest (d) indirect interest because of conflicting duties (e) indirect interest because of receipt of an applicable gift (f) indirect interest as a consequence of becoming an interested party (g) indirect interest as a result of impact on residential amenity (h) conflicting personal interest A Councillor who has declared a conflict of interest, must leave the meeting and remain outside the room while the matter is being considered, or any vote is taken. Councillors are also encouraged to declare circumstances where there may be a perceived conflict of interest. Cr Williams has a conflict of interest (conflicting duties) in the Proposed Budget for the Financial Year Ending 30 June 2018 Report recommendation 1(a) the Bendigo Stadium Limited as he is a member of the Board which is a company limited by guarantee. Cr Flack has a conflict of interest (indirect financial interest) in the Proposed Budget for the Financial Year Ending 30 June 2018 Report recommendation 1(b) La Trobe University Athletics Centre as he is a major sponsor of the centre. Cr Hoskin has a conflict of interest (conflicting duties) in the Proposed Budget for the Financial Year Ending 30 June 2018 Report recommendation 1(c)as she is a member of the Board which is a company limited by guarantee. The Chief Executive Officer, Craig Niemann, is also a member of the Board and acknowledges his conflict of interest. Cr Emond has a conflict of interest (conflicting duties) in the Proposed Budget for the Financial Year Ending 30 June 2018 Report recommendation 1(d) as he is a member of the WorkSpace Australia Board which is a company limited by guarantee.


PAGE 8

CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES

Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting of Wednesday 15 March 2017. The following items were considered at the Ordinary Council meeting held on Wednesday 15 March 2017 at 6:00pm.

Response to Petition: Request to Reopen Closed Section of Campaspe Street, Elmore

Petition: Request to Extend Construction of Railway Street, Kangaroo Flat

1A The Terrace, Kennington - Use and Development of Land for a Childcare Centre, Display of Signage and Reduction in Car Parking Requirements

466 Napier Street, White Hills - Construction of 3 Dwellings

Plan Greater Bendigo

Heathcote Township Plan

Marong Township Structure Plan

Progress Update and Proposed Governance Structure for the Implementation of Integrated Transport and Land Use Strategy (ITLUS)

Planning Scheme Amendment C231 - Wellsford Estate - Request the Minister for Planning to Undertake an Amendment

National Disability Insurance Scheme

Review and Amendment of Road Management Plan

Citizens' Jury - Response to Recommendations

Council Plan 2016-2017: Second Quarter Report, December 2016

Authority to Undertake a General Valuation of Rateable Land 2018

Record of Assemblies

Contracts Awarded Under Delegation

Appointment to Bendigo Agricultural Show Society Inc Committee of Management

Finance Report as at 31 December 2016 and Mid-Year Budget Review

Confidential Section 89 Report (any other matter which the Council or special committee considers would prejudice the Council or any person)

Confidential Section 89 Attachment (proposed development) The unconfirmed minutes have also been posted on the City of Greater Bendigo website pending confirmation at this meeting. RECOMMENDATION That the Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting of Council held on Wednesday 15 March 2017, as circulated, be taken as read and confirmed. RESOLUTION Moved Cr Fyffe, seconded Cr Wrigglesworth. That the recommendation be adopted.

CARRIED

Community Plan 2017-2021 Ordinary Meeting - 19 April 2017

PAGE 9

1. COMMUNITY PLAN 2017-2021

1.1 DRAFT COMMUNITY PLAN 2017-2021 FOR EXHIBITION

Document Information

Author Lyn Talbot, Corporate and Community Planner Responsible Bernie O’Sullivan, Strategy and Growth Director

Purpose

The purpose of this report is to provide an overview of the draft 2017-2021 Community Plan, previously called the Council Plan, and to advise community members of its availability for public feedback for a period of one month.

Summary

The newly elected Council for the 2017-2021 term agreed that their strategic plan for the term would be called the Community Plan as a reflection of their commitment to respond to community needs and priorities. This draft 2017-2021 Community Plan enables Councillors to review whether their intentions with regards to the Vision and Strategic Directions have been encompassed, and whether the draft actions and tasks for the 2017-2018 year are the short term priorities warranted over and above all of the competing demands and needs.

RECOMMENDATION

That the Greater Bendigo City Council consider the draft Community Plan 2017-2021 and resolve to advertise it for formal exhibition and submissions from 22 April until 19 May 2017. RESOLUTION Moved Cr O'Rourke, Seconded Cr Alden. That the recommendation be adopted.

CARRIED

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~


PAGE 10

Policy Context

In accordance with Section 125 of the Local Government Act 1989 a new Community Plan (Council Plan) for the 2017-2021 period is being prepared. It is a requirement under the Act that the draft plan is made available for public feedback by submission for a period of 28 days, followed by the opportunity for submitters to make a verbal presentation in support of their submission.

Background Information

Previous Council Decision Dates:

Following the Council election on 22 October 2016 a new Code of Conduct was developed by the new Council and agreed to.

Councillors set a revised, more aspirational Vision: Greater Bendigo – creating the world’s most liveable community. This vision encompasses Council’s undertaking to make Greater Bendigo a place that enhances people’s wellbeing and provides all of the conditions and services that enable people to live healthy and fulfilled lives.

Councillors took part in a number of workshops to form their collective goals and priorities on 21 December 2016, 17 January, 6 February, 22 February and 27 March 2017.

A range of community engagement activities were conducted in parallel with the Councillors’ workshops. These have included an online survey, completed by 540 respondents; Facebook responses from around 300 respondents; postcards completed by more than 400 people, mostly at public events and two public discussion sessions at Ulumbarra theatre, attended by around 70 people. In addition, face-to-face discussions were held with a number of community groups.

Councillors have drawn heavily on the feedback from community members as well as demographic information and projections about the future growth and service requirements of the municipality in forming their priorities.

These draft priorities or Strategic Objectives were ‘tested’ with community members at the 2 public discussion sessions and were endorsed by those present as being appropriate. The recommendations from the report of the Citizen’s Jury in 2016 are very strongly aligned with the Objectives and Actions in this draft Plan and this is another valuable endorsement of the Community Plan priorities.

City staff members prepared budget submissions in accordance with the actions and priorities in previously endorsed Strategies and Plans and from agreed projects and Councillor priorities.

Using all this information as a basis for further discussion, Councillors have prepared the draft Strategies and Actions and prepared their draft budget allocations in accordance with their stated directions.


PAGE 11

Report

Priority/Importance:

The new Community Plan must be completed and adopted by Council before 30 June 2017.

Timelines: The exhibition period will run from 22 April to 19 May 2017. People who make a written submission on this draft and who wish to make a verbal presentation in support of their submission will be invited to do so at a Councillor Briefing to be held on Wednesday 24 May.

Council will meet on Monday, 5 June to consider and make recommendations for any changes to the draft Community Plan.

Council is expected to meet to adopt the Community Plan on 21 June 2017. Risk Analysis:

The development of this Community Plan, including the exhibition process, meets legislated requirements.

Consultation/Communication

External Consultation: Opportunities to provide written submissions on the draft 2017-2021 Community Plan will be advertised in accordance with obligations. Copies of the draft will be made available electronically and in hard copy.

Internal Consultation: The successive drafts of the Community Plan have been discussed with members of the Executive Team at every stage and their feedback has been considered by Council and changes made where agreed by Council.

Resource Implications

Preparation of the Community Plan is in accordance with the allocated budget to prepare the Plan and conduct extensive community engagement to inform its development.

All actions included in the Plan are separately considered and budgeted within individual business units.

Attachments

1. Draft Community Plan 2017-2021

Council Budget 2017-2018 Ordinary Meeting - 19 April 2017

PAGE 12

2. BUDGET FOR THE FINANCIAL YEAR ENDING 30 JUNE 2018

2.1 PROPOSED BUDGET FOR THE FINANCIAL YEAR ENDING 30 JUNE 2018


Author Travis Harling, Manager Finance Responsible Michael Smyth, Acting Director, Corporate Performance

Purpose

The report recommends that Council give public notice of its intention to adopt a budget for the financial year ending 30 June 2018.

Summary

As formal documentation has now been prepared, the Council is in a position to proceed with the adoption of the proposed Budget for the purpose of public advertisement and the consideration of public submissions.

RECOMMENDATION

Cr Williams has a conflict of interest (conflicting duties) in the Proposed Budget for the Financial Year Ending 30 June 2018 Report recommendation 1(a) the Bendigo Stadium Limited as he is a member of the Board which is a company limited by guarantee. Cr Williams left the meeting. 1. That the Greater Bendigo City Council:

a. Acknowledge the allocation of $2,500,000 for the completion of the Bendigo Stadium expansion and installation of fire sprinklers.

MOTION Moved Cr Metcalf, seconded Cr Fyffe. That the recommendation be adopted.

CARRIED


PAGE 13

Cr Williams returned to the meeting. Cr Flack has a conflict of interest (indirect financial interest) in the Proposed Budget for the Financial Year Ending 30 June 2018 Report recommendation 1(b) La Trobe University Athletics Centre as he is a major sponsor of the centre. Cr Flack left the meeting.

b. Acknowledge the allocation of $900,000 to the La Trobe University Athletics Centre for the renewal of the track.

MOTION Moved Cr Emond, seconded Cr Wrigglesworth. That the recommendation be adopted.

CARRIED Cr Flack returned to the meeting. Cr Hoskin has a conflict of interest (conflicting duties) in the Proposed Budget for the Financial Year Ending 30 June 2018 Report recommendation 1(c)as she is a member of the Board which is a company limited by guarantee. The Chief Executive Officer, Craig Niemann, is also a member of the Board and acknowledges his conflict of interest. Cr Hoskin left the meeting.

c. Acknowledge the allocation of $1,068,800 to the Bendigo Heritage Attraction for operations and renewal of assets.

RESOLUTION Moved Cr Fyffe, seconded Cr Flack. That the recommendation be adopted.

CARRIED Cr Hoskin returned to the meeting.


PAGE 14

Cr Emond has a conflict of interest (conflicting duties) in the Proposed Budget for the Financial Year Ending 30 June 2018 Report recommendation 1(d) as he is a member of the WorkSpace Australia Board which is a company limited by guarantee. Cr Emond left the meeting.

d. Acknowledge the allocation of $147,000 to WorkSpace Australia for rental payments; and

RESOLUTION Moved Cr Flack, seconded Cr Williams. That the recommendation be adopted.

CARRIED Cr Emond returned to the meeting.

2. That the Greater Bendigo City Council, adopt the proposed budget in-principle, for the

purposes of public exhibition and submissions for a period of 28 days.

a. That the Budget, annexed to this resolution and initialled by the Mayor for identification, be the Budget prepared for the 2017/18 financial year for the purposes of Section 127 of the Local Government Act 1989 to be presented to the Council for adoption prior to 30 June, 2017.

b. To give public notice of the proposed Budget in accordance with Section 129 of the Local Government Act, and make available for public inspection the information required by the Local Government Act 1989 (as amended) and the Local Government (Planning and Reporting) Regulations 2014.

c. To display the proposed Budget at City of Greater Bendigo offices and on the City of Greater Bendigo website.

d. To receive submissions on the Budget until close of business on 21 May 2017.

e. To appoint a Committee of the Whole Council to hear and consider any submissions received on the proposed Budget at a meeting open to the public, at 5.30pm on Wednesday 24 May 2017, in the Reception Room of the Council Offices.

f. To implement a General Rate and nine (9) differential rates to be struck as follows:

General 0.412320% of CIV

Commercial/Industrial A (Urban/non-CBD) (185% of General)

0.762796% of CIV


PAGE 15

Commercial/Industrial B (Rural areas) (180% of General)

0.742150% of CIV

Commercial/Industrial C (CBD) (190% of General)

0.783349% of CIV

Farm Land (85% of General)

0.350470% of CIV

Vacant Residential Land (125% of General)

0.515380% of CIV

Other Land (185% of General)

0.762796% of CIV

Commercial/Industrial - Forest Edge Estate Maiden Gully properties. (185% of General)

0.762796% of CIV

Vacant Land - Forest Edge Estate Maiden Gully properties. (125% of General)

0.515380% of CIV

Residential - Forest Edge Estate Maiden Gully properties. (100% of General)

0.412320% of CIV

g. In accordance with the Cultural and Recreation Lands Act 1963 the following be declared:

Class 1 0.20616% of Capital Improved Value Class 2 0.10306% of Capital Improved Value Class 3 0.041232% of Capital Improved Value Class 4 $395.00 Class 5 $519.00

h. That Services Charges to be declared as follows:

Garbage Charge 120/140 Litre Bin (Within Organic collection area)

$ 125.45

Garbage Charge 240 Litre Bin (Within Organic collection area) $ 230.50

Garbage Charge 120/140 Litre Bin (Outside Organic collection area)

$ 144.80

Garbage Charge 240 Litre Bin (Outside Organic collection area) $ 249.90

Garbage Charge 120/140 Litre Bin (other Commercial) $ 159.30*

Garbage Charge 240 Litre Bin (other Commercial) $ 274.90*

Recycling Charge $ 67.80

Organics Charge ** $ 87.70

Garbage Charge (Business Areas) One Day per Week $ 274.90*

Garbage Charge (Business Areas) Two Days per Week $ 549.80*

Garbage Charge (Business Areas) Three Days per Week $ 824.70*

Garbage Charge (Business Areas) Five Days per Week $1,374.50*

Garbage Charge (Business Areas) Seven Days per Week $1,924.30*

* Includes GST ** Organic Waste Collection – Specified area


PAGE 16

i. That a discount of 1.5% on current year rates and charges be granted, if full

payment (including any arrears and interest) is received on or before 30 September 2017.

j. That the Strategic Resource Plan annexed to this resolution and initialled by the Mayor for identification, be the Strategic Resource Plan prepared for the 2017/18 financial year for the purposes of Section 126 of the Local Government Act 1989 to be presented to the Council for adoption prior to 30 June, 2017.

k. To display the proposed Strategic Resource Plan at City of Greater Bendigo

offices and on the City of Greater Bendigo website. RESOLUTION Moved Cr Williams, seconded Cr Metcalf. That the recommendation be adopted.

CARRIED ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Policy Context

City of Greater Bendigo Council Plan 2013-2017 (2016/17 Update):

Theme: 1 Leadership and good governance

Strategic Objective: 1 Council demonstrates leadership in its decisions to meet future needs and challenges

Strategy 1.1 Good governance principles are used to guide strategic decision-making

Legislative Requirements

In accordance with the Local Government Act 1989, Council must:

Prepare a budget for each financial year commencing 1 July (Section 127).

Declare the amount it intends to raise by general rates (Section 158).

Comply with guidelines established under Sec 161; Ministerial Guidelines for Differential Rating.

Adopt a Strategic Resource Plan not later than 30 June (Section 126). As soon as practicable after Council has prepared its budget, the Council must advertise that the budget has been prepared. The notice must:

1. State that a person has a right to make a submission under Section 223 of the Local Government Act 1989 on any proposal contained in the budget.


PAGE 17

2. Advise that copies of the budget are available for inspection at the Council's main office and any District office during normal business hours for at least 28 days after the publication of the public notice.


The draft Community Plan 2017-2021 includes a Strategic Resource Plan (SRP) that provides a financial framework for meeting the objectives established in the Council Plan. The key objective of the SRP is to achieve the Council's strategic objectives, while ensuring financial sustainability in the medium to long term. The 2017/18 Budget has been developed based on the SRP, to facilitate the achievement of the Annual Actions listed in the Council Plan. Prior to the preparation of the Budget, a review of the Council Plan was undertaken which informed the Budget content. The following Principles have guided the Budget development:

Theme Principle

1 Best Value Take account of Best Value Principles from the Local Government Act:

All services must meet quality and cost standards.

All services must be responsive to the needs of the community.

Each service must be accessible by those members of the community for whom the service is intended.

Council must achieve continuous improvement in the provision of services to the community.

Council must develop a program of consultation with the community in relation to the services it provides and report regularly to the community.

2 Capital Works Alignment with Council Plan

Council’s budget will take account of the Council Plan and other strategic plans for new Capital Works using the agreed criteria of the Capital Evaluation Framework.

3 Rating Aim to balance the demand for services and infrastructure with the community's ability to pay.

4 Renewal of Assets

Comply with existing financial policy by investing in renewing existing assets to the level required by the Asset Management Plans.

5 Loan Borrowings

The level of indebtedness will remain within the low risk category of the VAGO indicator. Council’s ability to pay our debt using our own revenue sources will remain in the low risk category.

6 User Fees and Charges

Determining User Fees in accordance with the City Pricing Policy.

7 Revenue Sources

Identify new revenue sources where possible.

Government grants will only be included in the Budget if they are either confirmed or there is a high likelihood of confirmation and, if no confirmation is received, refer the matter to mid-year budget for decision on proceeding. Projects will not commence


PAGE 18

until government funding is committed.

Contributions from clubs and organisations are to be confirmed by the execution of a formal Agreement before Council considers funding the project.

8 Operating budget Alignment with Council Plan

Council’s budget will take account of the Community Plan and other strategic plans for new and expanded services funded through the Operating budget, using the Business Case submission process which justifies increased service demand or the development of a new service/initiative. This includes requests for new staffing positions.

9 Working Capital Ratio

Aim to achieve a Working Capital ratio of no less than 150%; this means that there will be $1.50 of current assets to every $1 of current liabilities, to maintain a low risk rating with VAGO.

10 Managing Service Growth

Ensure existing levels of service can be maintained, as a minimum.

11 Efficiency in Operations

To achieve increased efficiency and affordability, the operations of Council will be systematically reviewed. Progress is to be reported annually. This work has already commenced as part of the budget development process.

12 Capacity Building Continue to build the community’s capacity to contribute to the economic growth and wellbeing of the City.

Report

Key Impacts on 2017/18 Budget

When preparing the 2017/18 Budget, consideration has been given to the matters which will impact on Council during the budget period. Economic influences include:

The Victorian State Government has introduced a cap on rate increases from 2016/17. The cap for 2016/17 has been set at 2.0%.

Constrained Federal and State Government fiscal environment, including Federal Assistance Grants indexation freeze for 3 years.

The increasing regulatory environment which requires City of Greater Bendigo to meet legislative standards including the introduction of the Local Government Performance Reporting Framework.

Managing the impact of being a growing city with associated community needs.

Increase of 3.3% ($2.02 per tonne) in the levy payable to the State Government upon disposal of waste to landfill.

The Fire Service Property Levy will continue to be collected by Council on behalf of the State Government with the introduction of the Fire Services Property Levy Act 2012.

Potential future liability related to the Defined Benefit Superannuation Fund.

Potential future liability related to Landfill sites. There are a number of internal influences which have had a significant impact on the preparation of the 2017/18 Budget being:


PAGE 19

Community Plan 2017-21

Budget principles established by Council to guide the development of the Budget.

The finalisation of several large capital works projects from the 2016-17 financial year.

Additional pressures to maintain service levels while service demand increases.

Investment in developing City of Greater Bendigo’s workforce capability.

The need to replace and upgrade ageing infrastructure.

Commitment to maintain service standards in a growing municipality.

Ongoing focus on greater efficiency.

COGB's Enterprise Agreement.

2017/18 Budget

The proposed Budget has been prepared in accordance with relevant statutory requirements, including the Local Government Act 1989 (the Act) and Local Government (Planning and Reporting) Regulations 2014 (the Regulations). The key features of the proposed Budget are:

1. Capital and Major Works of $58.38M.

During 2017/18, Council will continue to deliver on commitments to undertake significant capital projects which improve the liveability of the City. These include the completion of Garden for the Future at the Bendigo Botanic Gardens; Albert Roy Pavilion contribution; Bendigo Indoor Aquatic and Wellbeing Centre development; Bendigo Stadium major expansion Bendigo Tennis Pavilion construction; the construction of the Eaglehawk Play Place; Strathfieldsaye Community Hub; and works at the RSL Soldiers Memorial Institute. Other infrastructure categories continue to be renewed and expanded. $14.1M will be allocated to the Sealed and Unsealed Road Network, $1.9M on Pathways $3.35M on Drainage and $2.6M on Public Furniture and Fittings.

2. Repayment of debt of approximately $3.429M resulting in a balance of a total debt of $49.95M as at 30 June 2018.

3. An increase in income from Rates and Charges of $4.295M made up of a rate

increase of 2.0%, supplementary rates, garbage, recycling and organics waste collection charges.

4. An amount of $110.55M to be raised by general rates and service charges as follows:

General Rates $92.769M Service Charges $16.181M Supplementary Rates* $ 1.600M (estimated to be raised during the year)

* Supplementary rates are a result of Supplementary Valuations. A Supplementary Valuation occurs when there is a change to a property that will affect the Valuation such as construction of a dwelling or shed, installation of a swimming pool or a demolition.


PAGE 20

5. The Budget includes a General Rate and nine (9) differential rates to be declared as follows:

General 0.41232% of CIV

Commercial/Industrial A (Urban/non-CBD) (185% of General)

0.762796% of CIV

Commercial/Industrial B (Rural areas) (180% of General)

0.742150 of CIV

Commercial/Industrial C (CBD) (190% of General)

0.783349% of CIV

Farm Land (85% of General)

0.350470% of CIV

Vacant Land (residential and rural residential) (125% of General)

0.515380% of CIV

Other Land (185% of General)

0.762796% of CIV

Commercial/Industrial - Forest Edge Estate Maiden Gully properties. (185% of General)

0.762796% of CIV

Vacant Land - Forest Edge Estate Maiden Gully properties. (125% of General)

0.515380% of CIV

Residential - Forest Edge Estate Maiden Gully properties. (100% of General)

0.412320% of CIV

6. In accordance with the Cultural and Recreation Lands Act 1963, the following be

declared:

Class 1 0.20616% of Capital Improved Value Class 2 0.10306% of Capital Improved Value Class 3 0.041232% of Capital Improved Value Class 4 $395.00 Class 5 $519.00

7. A decrease in the residential Garbage Charge within the organics collection area of

10.87% for 120/140 litre bins and 5.04% for 240 litre bins. An increase in the residential Garbage Charge outside the organics collection area of 2.90% for 120/140 litre bins and 2.90% for 240 litre bins, the Recycling Charge increased by 3.1%.

8. Services Charges to be declared as follows:

Garbage Charge 120/140 Litre Bin (Within Organic collection area) $ 125.45

Garbage Charge 240 Litre Bin (Within Organic collection area) $ 230.50

Garbage Charge 120/140 Litre Bin (Outside Organic collection area) $ 144.80

Garbage Charge 240 Litre Bin (Outside Organic collection area) $ 249.90

Garbage Charge 120/140 Litre Bin (other Commercial) $ 159.30*

Garbage Charge 240 Litre Bin (other Commercial) $ 274.90*

Recycling Charge $ 67.80

Organics Charge** $ 87.70


PAGE 21

Garbage Charge (Business Areas) One Day per Week $ 274.90*

Garbage Charge (Business Areas) Two Days per Week $ 549.80*

Garbage Charge (Business Areas) Three Days per Week $ 824.70*

Garbage Charge (Business Areas) Five Days per Week $1,374.50*

Garbage Charge (Business Areas) Seven Days per Week $1,924.30*

* Includes GST ** Organic Waste Collection – Specified area

9. An early full rate payment discount of 1.5% on current year rates and charges will be

granted if full payment (including any arrears and interest) is received on or before 30 September 2016.

Priority/Importance:

The Council must adopt its Budget by 30 June 2017 and forward a copy to the Minster for Local Government within 28 days of adoption. Councillor Conflicts of Interest in the Budget for 2017/18

Section 79C (2) of the Local Government Act indicates that if a budget or revised budget to be approved by Council includes funding for a matter of which a Councillor has a Conflict of Interest, the Councillor is taken not to have a Conflict of Interest for the purposes of approving the budget or revised budget if:

a. The Council approved the matter and proposed funding previously; and

b. The Councillor disclosed the nature of the Conflict of Interest when the decision in respect of the funding was originally considered and made.

This Section of the Act means that if a Councillor has not previously declared a Conflict of Interest in the allocation in which they have a conflict, prior to considering the budget, the Councillor will have a Conflict of Interest in the budget and will therefore need to leave the Council Chamber and not vote on the budget. The first two parts of the report recommendation enables Councillors to declare their Conflicts of Interest prior to considering the other recommendations relating to the proposed Budget. This will then allow Councillors to vote on the other proposed Budget recommendations. Bendigo Stadium Limited Cr Williams has a conflict of interest in the Bendigo Stadium Limited (conflicting duties) as he is a member of the Board which is a company limited by guarantee. LaTrobe University Athletics Centre Cr Flack has a conflict of interest in the La Trobe University Athletics Centre (indirect financial interest) as he is a major sponsor of the centre.


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Bendigo Heritage Attractions Cr Hoskin has a conflict of interest in the Bendigo Heritage Attractions Limited (conflicting duties) as she is a member of the Board which is a company limited by guarantee. The Chief Executive Officer, Craig Niemann, is also a member of the Board and acknowledges his conflict of interest. Workspace Australia Cr Emond has a conflict of interest in Workspace Australia Limited (conflicting duties) as he is a member of the Board which is a company limited by guarantee. Note: In relation to companies incorporated under the Commonwealth Corporations Act 2001 (Commonwealth Act) it is clear that a Board Member is to exercise powers and duties in good faith in the best interests of the company. This leads to a conflict of interest relating to 'conflicting duties'.


Internal Consultation:

The Budget has been prepared by the Manager Finance and Management Accounting Team, with extensive input from Councillors, the Executive Management Team and Managers. External Consultation:

The Council is required to give public notice of its intention to declare the rate and adopt the Budget. Section 223 of the Local Government Act provides that any person can make a submission to Council for consideration in respect to the Budget within a 28 day period of formal notification. Council must hear any person requesting to be heard in respect to their submission. Formal notification of the Budget will be given in the Bendigo Advertiser on 19 April 2017. Submissions will close on 21 May 2017. During the public exhibition process, the Budget will be available for inspection at the City of Greater Bendigo offices and on the City of Greater Bendigo’s website at www.bendigo.vic.gov.au. The hearing of any submission to the Budget will be held from 5.30pm on Wednesday 24 May 2017, in the Reception Room of the Council Offices, prior to the adoption of the Budget on 21 June 2016. The meeting to hear submissions will be open to the public.

Attachments

1. Proposed Budget document, including the Strategic Resource Plan (included under separate cover)

http://www.bendigo.vic.gov.au/

Petitions and Joint Letters Ordinary Meeting - 19 April 2017

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3. PETITIONS AND JOINT LETTERS

Nil.

Planning for Growth - Reports Ordinary Meeting - 19 April 2017

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4. PLANNING FOR GROWTH

4.1 CHANGE TO ADVERTISING SIGN PLANNING CONTROLS AT THE KANGAROO FLAT AQUATIC LEISURE CENTRE, BENDIGO STADIUM AND BENDIGO TENNIS CENTRE - PLANNING SCHEME AMENDMENT C233


Author Frank Casimir – Statutory Planner Responsible Bernie O’Sullivan, Director Strategy and Growth Director

Summary/Purpose

Amendment details: This amendment changes the advertising signage controls for three sports and recreation facilities: Kangaroo Flat Aquatic Leisure Centre, Bendigo Stadium and Bendigo Tennis Centre so that appropriate signage can be considered.

Proponent: City of Greater Bendigo

Key issues: The impact of business advertising signage on open space areas.

The need to balance the needs of local sporting groups who rely on advertising signage for financial support.

The need to effectively manage advertising signage in public open spaces and recreation areas.


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RECOMMENDATION

That the Greater Bendigo City Council resolves to: 1. Request the Minister for Planning to authorise Council to prepare Amendment C233

to the Greater Bendigo Planning Scheme.

2. When Authorised by the Minister, exhibit Amendment C233 to the Greater Bendigo Planning Scheme.

3. Enter into an agreement with each of the facilities, that any proposed signage both

inside or outside the centres must have prior approval of the Superintendent’s Representative.

RESOLUTION Moved Cr Williams, Seconded Cr Fyffe. That the recommendation be adopted.

CARRIED

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Policy Context

City of Greater Bendigo Council Plan 2013 – 2017 (2016-2017 Update)

Planning for Growth

To maintain the unique character of Greater Bendigo, Council delivers major projects that accommodate the growing population and diversifies the economy.

Presentation & Vibrancy

Greater Bendigo is a community that values its heritage, arts facilities and major events and supports arts and cultural experiences.

Productivity

Greater Bendigo has a vibrant and diverse economy that grows jobs and enables good living standards.

Sustainability

The built and natural qualities that make Greater Bendigo an attractive and appealing place are valued and conserved.


The key steps in the Amendment process are summarised below:


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The Aquatic Leisure Centre, the Bendigo Stadium and the Bendigo Tennis Centre facilities are all located on public land which is zoned Public Park and Recreation Zone with the City being either the owner or Committee of Management. All three facilities have received recent planning permits for their development/redevelopment with all three currently being constructed (Permit reference Nos. DP/168/2014, DP/249/2015 and DP/370/2016). However, none of the planning permits allow for advertising signage and under the zone no more than 3 square metres of signage is permitted on each site. The City Major Projects unit has requested that the Planning Scheme be changed to allow more than 3 square metres of advertising signage to be able to be displayed at these facilities. The Planning Scheme Amendment places these facilities in a different category that allows unlimited signage under a permit. Currently the following signage is proposed:


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Kangaroo Flat Aquatic Leisure Centre

One 3.5 metres by 0.4 metre sign at the main entrance.

One 2 metres by 0.8 metre free-standing sign toward the entrance.

Five freestanding ‘way-finding’ signs scattered throughout the site measuring approximately 2 metres by 0.8 metres each.

Bendigo Stadium

One 2.5 metres by 1.8 metre collective signage board on the corner of Inglis Street and Marong Road.

Two mounted signs measuring each 5 meters by 0.5 metre at the entrances of the stadium.

Three freestanding ‘way-finding’ signs scattered throughout the site measuring each 2 metres by 0.8 metre.

The exact design and location of the signs are yet to be finalised. There is no proposed signage for the Bendigo Tennis Centre yet but it is expected the signage would be similar in size and number as for the two other facilities.

Report

The Planning and Environment Act 1987 allows for a Planning Scheme Amendment to be initiated by a municipal Council, or a Council can respond to a request for an Amendment by any person or body. When requesting authorisation from the Minister for Planning, an Explanatory Report must be submitted that discusses the purpose, effects and strategic justification for the Amendment. Key issues identified in the Explanatory Report are summarised below. (Full copy attached). Land affected by the Amendment The amendment affects land at the following three sports and recreation facilities located at:

9 Browning Street, Kangaroo Flat,

134-186 Marong Road, West Bendigo and;

21A Nolan Street, Bendigo. 9 Browning Street, Kangaroo Flat The land at 9 Browning Street, Kangaroo Flat is zoned Public Park and Recreation Zone and is partly affected by the Environmental Significance Overlay Schedule 1 along its east boundary. It is an odd shape site and is bounded to the east by the Bendigo Creek, along which runs the Bendigo Creek linear trail. Adjoining the site to the south-west and to the north-west are two small pockets of dwellings with frontages to Luxton Street, Neil Street and Mackenzie Street West. The main access to the site is from Browning Street to the north-east but it can also be accessed from Neil Street to the west. The land is


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currently being redeveloped for use as an aquatic leisure centre and measures approximately 6.5 hectares. The proposed redevelopment will be visible from High Street (located at about 150 metres to the east of the site) which is the main entrance to the City from the south. The broader area beyond the immediate vicinity of the subject site consists predominantly of dwellings.

Figure 1: 9 Browning Street, Kangaroo Flat 134-186 Marong Road, West Bendigo The land at 134-186 Marong Road, West Bendigo is zoned Public Park and Recreation Zone and is not affected by any overlay. The site is commonly known as the Bendigo Stadium (formerly the Schweppes Centre). It is generally triangular in shape and is located between Marong Road and Inglis Street. To the west of the site, the land is predominantly zoned General Residential Zone and developed with dwellings. The main access to the site is from Inglis Street. The site has a total area of approximately 7.9 hectares. Given the site location, the existing facility and its expansion are very prominent when viewed from Inglis Street and Marong Road, which is the principal entrance to the City from the west. The broader area beyond the site to the south and to the east is predominantly residential and to the north crown land.


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Figure 2: 134-186 Marong Road, West Bendigo 21A Nolan Street, Bendigo The land at 21A Nolan Street, Bendigo is located on the south-western side of Nolan Street at approximately 70 metres north-east of the intersection of Nolan and Napier Streets. It is zoned Public Park and Recreation Zone and partly affected by the Environment Significant Overlay Schedule 1. The site has a frontage of 55 metres with Nolan Street to the northeast. Bendigo Creek trail and Joseph Street run along the north-west lot boundary and Bayne Street runs along the south-west lot boundary. Along the south-east lot boundary is a row of dwellings which all present to and are accessed from Napier Street. The site has a total area of 3 hectares and is developed as a tennis centre which is currently being re-developed to upgrade its existing facilities. Access to the site is via Nolan Street. The broader area beyond the site is predominantly used and developed for residential purposes except for the land located across Nolan Street to the north-east which is occupied by Lake Weeroona.


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Figure 3: 21A Nolan Street, Bendigo What the Amendment does The Amendment proposes to amend the schedule to Clause 36.02 (Public Park and Recreation Zone) to include the land known as the Kangaroo Flat Aquatic Leisure Centre, the Bendigo Stadium and the Bendigo Tennis Centre in Category 2 (Office and Industrial - Low Limitation), at Clause 52.05 (Advertising Signs), rather than Category 4 (Sensitive Areas – Maximum Limitation). Social, Economic and Environmental Impacts Social Impacts The Amendment will have an overall positive social impact by allowing promotion, way-finding and business signs to be displayed at these facilities following assessment via a planning permit application process. At this stage, the quantity and locations of the proposed signs are considered to be acceptable. As a planning permit application to display such signs is not exempt from public notice and review, community input would be sought and obtained before it is approved. Economic Impacts The Amendment recognises the need for sports clubs to seek financial support especially from local businesses who in return, expect promotional advertising signage at sports venues to attract potential customers. The Amendment seeks to balance these needs and the visual amenity of the affected land by guiding the display of advertising signage through the permit application process. The Amendment will therefore have positive economic impact for business and sports clubs. The amendment will also allow the City to display larger signage for the venues to attract patrons.


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Environmental Impacts It is not expected that the Amendment would have any adverse environmental impacts. The Environmental Significance Overlay Schedule 1 (Watercourse Protection) affecting part of two of the sites does not trigger the need for a planning permit for the display of advertising signs. Also, as all three sites are located within urban areas, it is not considered that the Amendment would have an unacceptable impact on the natural environment.

Strategic justification – Planning context The Amendment is supported by the following clauses in the Greater Bendigo Planning Scheme: State Planning Policy Framework

Clause 11.03‐2 (Open Space Management) has as objective to assist the creation of a diverse and integrated network of public open space commensurate with the needs of the community. Among the strategies to achieve this objective is “ensure that community sports facilities be accommodated in a way that is not detrimental to other park activities”. The Amendment is consistent with this clause because it would allow for the display advertising signage at these recreation facilities to support sporting clubs financially whilst providing for their control through the planning permit application process. Clause 11.12-1 (Loddon Mallee South Regional Growth, Planning for growth) objective is to manage population growth and settlements. One of the strategies of this objective is to support Bendigo as the regional city and the major population and economic growth hub for the region, offering a range of employment and services. The Amendment is consistent with this clause as it would provide for additional promotion opportunities for the facilities and local businesses which may benefit the City at large through economic growth. Clause 11.12-3 (Loddon Mallee South Regional Growth, A diversified economy) has as objective to strengthen and diversify the economy of the Loddon Mallee South Region. One of its strategies is to support the development and expansion of tourism infrastructure in Bendigo. The Amendment supports this clause because it would help further promote these facilities which are capable of hosting international events resulting in attracting more tourists to the region.

Clause 17.01‐1 (Business) encourages development which meets the community’s needs for retail, entertainment, office and other commercial services and provides net community benefit in relation to accessibility, efficient infrastructure use and the aggregation and sustainability of commercial facilities. The Amendment is consistent with this clause because advertising signage is an integral part of the operation of sporting clubs as it provides a significant means of identification and financial support.


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Local Planning Policy Framework Clause 21.07 (Economic Development) acknowledges that business centres also fulfil a community role and are an outward expression of the amenity and success of the municipality. This amendment is consistent with this clause as it provides for additional opportunities for the promotion of the facilities and local businesses through the display advertising signage in appropriate locations. Clause 22.29 (Advertising and signage policy) sets out policy basis which seeks to protect the public amenity of the municipality from distracting and dominating signage and advertising, particularly in areas of high sensitivity including areas of heritage significance, neighbourhood character, and along City and township entrances. The Amendment is consistent with this policy as it would allow for additional advertising signs to be displayed at these sports and recreation facilities whilst providing the City with the discretion to allow the quality and quantity of signage.


The relevant departments of the City, including the Major Projects and the Active and Healthy Community Departments, have been consulted on this Amendment. Preliminary discussion has also occurred with the Department of Environment, Land Water and Planning which has agreed in principle with the intent of the Amendment. It must also be noted that what the Amendment does, is relatively minor given the scale of the development already permitted on these three sites. All three facilities went through an extensive consultation and public notice process in the context of the recent planning permit applications.

Conclusion

Amendment C233 to the Greater Bendigo Planning Scheme proposes to facilitate the controlled display of advertising signage at the Kangaroo Flat Aquatic Leisure Centre, the Bendigo Stadium and at the Bendigo Tennis Centre which are all sports and recreation facilities of regional significance. It is expected that on balance, this amendment would benefit local sports clubs and businesses as well as the wider community. It is recommended that Council seek authorisation from the Minister for Planning to prepare and exhibit the Amendment.

Options

Council has the option of:

Supporting the Amendment proposal and making a request to the Minister for Planning to authorise preparation and exhibition of the Amendment.

Refusing the request to prepare an Amendment. Under the Planning and Environment Act 1987 there is no right of review of a Council's decision not to support preparation of an Amendment.


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Requesting further information. The Amendment application documentation is not sufficiently comprehensive for a request to the Minster at this time and would require considerable financial investment to address all issues. It is considered that further investigation would not resolve the critical issues of the proposal.


Officer time will be required to prepare the Amendment documentation for authorisation, exhibition, manage the exhibition process and liaise with the Minister for Planning. The City is also responsible for payment of statutory fees and costs incurred in the processing of the Amendment of approximately $1,500.00. This may include a panel hearing process if the Amendment has unresolved submissions following exhibition. In terms of permit activity, it is not expected that there will be any significant change and as a result, this Amendment will have minimal impact on the future operational resources of the responsible authority.

Attachments

1. Explanatory Report 2. Public Park and Recreation Zone Schedule


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4.2 347 WARROWITUE-FOREST ROAD, HEATHCOTE - USE OF LAND FOR AGRICULTURE AND ASSOC BUILDINGS AND WORKS


Author Kahlia Reid, Town Planner Responsible Bernie O’Sullivan, Director Strategy and Growth Director

Summary/Purpose

Application details: Use of land for agriculture and associated buildings and works

Application No: DU/719/2016

Applicant: M Stuart-Watt

Land: 347 Warrowitue-Forest Road, HEATHCOTE 3523

Zoning: Rural Living Zone

Overlays: No overlays

No. of objections: 2

Consultation meeting:

A formal consultation meeting was not undertaken.

Key considerations: Is the site capable of supporting the proposal?

Will the proposal have an adverse impact on the amenity of the area?

Conclusion: The site is not suitable for the proposed agricultural use due to its size, soil profile and insufficient capacity to store water. In addition, due to the pattern of development surrounding the site it is considered the proposal would have an adverse amenity impact on neighbours. For the above reasons the proposal is recommended for refusal.


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RECOMMENDATION

Pursuant to section 61 of the Planning and Environment Act (1987), Greater Bendigo City Council resolve to Refuse to Grant a Planning Permit at 347 Warrowitue-Forest Road, HEATHCOTE 3523 for the following reasons:

1. The site does not have the capacity to sustain the proposed agricultural pursuits.

2. The proposal will increase the risk of land degradation.

3. The proposal will have an unreasonable impact on the amenity of the area. RESOLUTION Moved Cr Wrigglesworth, Seconded Cr Fyffe. That the recommendation be adopted.

CARRIED

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Policy Context

City of Greater Bendigo Council Plan 2013 – 2017 (2016-2017 Update)

Productivity

Greater Bendigo has a vibrant and diverse economy that grows jobs and enables good living standards.

Sustainability

The built and natural qualities that make Greater Bendigo an attractive and appealing place are valued and conserved.

Background Information A Planning Permit was issued in 2015 for the use and development of a dwelling (including temporary use of a moveable dwelling). The dwelling is nearing completion.

Report

Subject Site and Surrounds

The site is a generally rectangular shaped allotment located on the northern side of Warrowitue-Forest Road, opposite Brennan Road. Orientated north west to south east along its longest axis, the site has a frontage to the road of 120 metres, a maximum depth of 264.51 metres and a total area of 2.4 hectares.


PAGE 36

A large single storey house is under construction on the site, setback from the south eastern boundary approximately 70 metres and approximately 20 metres from the eastern boundary. Scattered native vegetation is evident across the site, while the balance of the land consists of limited grasses, an eroded gully in the north western corner and a small dam (refer to Figures 2 and 3). The site is located within an area which is broadly used for rural residential pursuits. Lot sizes immediately surrounding the site typically range in size from 2 to 4.2 hectares and contain detached dwellings and associated outbuildings. Scattered native vegetation is a feature of the area, with some lots containing significant cover.

Figure 1: Location map showing subject site. Objectors' properties marked with a star.


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Figure 2: View north west across the rear of the site

Figure 3: Eroded gully at the rear of the site


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Proposal

The application seeks planning approval for the use of land for agriculture and associated buildings and works. The applicant has indicated it is the intention to earn a living from their land. Land Use The applicant proposes to utilise the land for agriculture which will consist of ten cows, ten chickens, one rooster, six ducks and four turkeys. Buildings and Works The applicant seeks to pump water from an existing dam into tanks to reduce evaporation. Initially a 20,000 litre tank is proposed which will be increased to 100,000 litres over time. Fencing is intended to be improved, dividing the property into two. Two shipping containers currently on the site are proposed to be used for storage of stock feed.


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Figure 4: Site plan submitted in support of application

Planning Controls - Greater Bendigo Planning Scheme

The following clauses are relevant in the consideration of this proposal: State Planning Policy Framework

Erosion and Landslip (Clause 13.03-2) Municipal Strategic Statement

Environment (Clause 21.08) Local Planning Policies

Salinity and Erosion Risk Policy (Clause 22.04) Other Provisions

Rural Living Zone (Clause 35.03)

Decision Guidelines (Clause 65)


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Referrals The following authority has been consulted on the proposal:

Referral Comment

Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning

A formal referral to the Department was not required however comments were requested. No objection was received to the proposal.

Public Notification The application was advertised by way of notice on the site and letters to adjoining and nearby owners and occupiers. As a result of advertising, two objections were received, with the grounds of objection being:

Soil condition (prone to compaction, erosion and salinity)

Land use unsuitable given soil type, low rainfall, small holding of land and existing development

Amenity impacts (odour, noise and vermin)

Lack of feed with previous seeding not surviving

Already obtained a Property Identification Code (PIC) before a decision on the application has been made (a PIC is a registration as a livestock producing property)

No experience with cattle

Cattle numbers proposed are over the top

Upgrade of fencing would be required

Adjoining land is ‘land for wildlife’ with noxious species having been removed and native species planted to support wildlife

The objections are discussed below in the planning assessment.

Planning Assessment

Is the site capable of sustaining the proposed land use? The site is located within the Rural Living Zone and has an area of 2.4 hectares. The area that could actually be utilised for agriculture is reduced by approximately 0.5 hectare due to the large dwelling under construction, associated wastewater field, native vegetation, eroded gully and dam.


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There was concern from the initial review of the application about the capability of the site to sustain a proposal of this nature given the identified constraints. Due to the concerns, especially in relation to the number of cattle, the City of Greater Bendigo engaged an independent consultant to provide expert advice regarding the agricultural potential of the land. The assessment prepared provides the following key findings:

The site has the capacity to carry two head of cattle with supplementary feeding over the summer period in an average season.

The site would need to be a four paddock rotation in order to have a spelling of sufficient time to allow pasture leaf areas to be sufficient to get effective growth.

The site is not large enough to allow for effective grazing management and soil limitations to pasture growth.

The stocking rate on average should not exceed two head of weaner/yearling class cattle, any greater than this would require the majority of their feed from supplementary sources.

The site does not have sufficient water storage capacity to run an effective irrigation programme.

The soils at the site have shallow top soils, poor structure and are not the soil types that irrigation can be easily effective upon.

The site has been assessed as having a poor capability in regards to the suitability for agricultural production.

The independent advice concludes that the site is not suitable to support the proposed agriculture use. In addition, it should be noted that if the applicant was to begin importing most feed from the outside the site then the proposal could be considered Intensive Animal Husbandry which is a prohibited use under the Rural Living Zone. Would there be any environmental impacts as a result of the proposed use? The City of Greater Bendigo’s Salinity and Erosion Risk Policy identifies the following objectives in relation to erosion risk:

To ensure that the use and development of land does not cause significant land disturbance.

To protect area prone to soil erosion by minimising soil erosion and vegetation loss. At the rear of the site there is a gully in which significant erosion has already occurred (refer to Figure 3 above). No consideration has been given to limiting the extent of land disturbance or degradation of this area as part of the proposal. In addition, the independent advice sought by the City of Greater Bendigo identifies that the risk of erosion across the site could increase as a result of the proposal if ground cover levels drop below a certain level.


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This is linked to the proposed land use, as it is likely that any stock on the land would decrease the ground cover levels at a significantly greater rate, therefore land disturbance and erosion may pose an unreasonable risk. Will the proposal have an adverse impact on the amenity of the area? A purpose of the Rural Living Zone is to provide for agricultural land uses which do not adversely affect the amenity of the surrounding land uses. The primary land use in the area is residential development with immediately surrounding lots ranging in size from approximately 2 to 4.2 hectares. The nearest dwelling (not in the same ownership) is located approximately 30 metres from the eastern boundary. It is considered that there is likely to be adverse amenity impacts as a result of the proposed agricultural use (most notable in relation to cattle numbers) relating to dust and noise. Vegetation ground cover across the site is already limited. The addition of cattle on the land would significantly reduce the ability for ground cover to establish, therefore increasing the likelihood of dust nuisance in the area. The number and range of animals proposed to be kept on the land are also likely to create noise nuisance due to the close proximity of neighbours. This could be intensified during periods where feed availability is reduced. Given that it has already been identified that the animal numbers proposed could not be supported this would be considered to be a common occurrence. The application submitted provides no justification on how amenity impacts would be mitigated to an acceptable level and therefore, for the above reasons it is considered the purpose of the zone could not be satisfied.

Conclusion

The main concern regarding this proposal is the capability of the land to sustain the agricultural use. Independent advice provided in regards to the agricultural potential confirms the City of Greater Bendigo officer’s concerns that the site is in fact unsuitable due to the number of constraints discussed in this report. The purposes of the Rural Living Zone are not being satisfied due to the likely amenity impacts on nearby properties as a result of the proposal and the increased risk of land degradation and other environmental impacts. The applicant has provided no substantial justification to support the proposal or demonstrate the agricultural land use could be sustained and would not have an adverse impact on the amenity of the surrounding area. It is therefore recommended that the application be refused.


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Options

Council, acting as the responsible authority for administering the Planning Scheme, may resolve to: grant a permit, grant a permit with conditions, or refuse to grant a permit.

Attachments

1. Copy of objections

2. Agricultural Potential (Grazing) Assessment prepared by Gavin Beever, Cumbre Consultants (independent advice prepared for the City of Greater Bendigo)


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4.3 CT000313 - BENDIGO SOLDIERS MEMORIAL INSTITUTE REVITALISATION PROJECT


Author Daniella McClure, Project Coordinator Building Infrastructure Responsible Vicky Mason, Director Health & Wellbeing Director

Summary/Purpose

To summarise the outcome of tender CT000313 – Bendigo Soldiers Memorial Institute Revitalisation Project and seek Council endorsement to award the contract to Nicholson Construction.

RECOMMENDATION

1. Award contract CT000313 – Bendigo Soldiers Memorial Revitalisation Project to Nicholson Construction for a lump sum price, including Provisional items and not exceeding $4,242,282

2. That the Project Director be given delegated authority to approve contract Variations up to $150,000

3. Authorise the Chief Executive Officer to award contract variations up to 10% of the contract value.

4. Authorise the Chief Executive Officer to undertake the necessary administrative steps

to endorse the $1,700,000 Federal Government Community Development Grant Programme Deed of Agreement.

5. Authorise the Chief Executive Officer to undertake the necessary administrative steps

to endorse the contract documentation. RESOLUTION Moved Cr Hoskin, Seconded Cr Emond. That the recommendation be adopted.

CARRIED

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~


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Policy Context

This project is consistent with the Council Plan 2013 -17. The project is consistent with the themes of planning for growth which supports population growth through good design and careful planning of infrastructure and facilities and the Sustainability theme which supports the renewal, maintenance and construction of essential infrastructure to meet the needs of current and future residents. Council Plan Reference: Council Plan 2013 – 2017 (2015-2016 Update) 2.1: To maintain the unique character of Greater Bendigo, Council delivers major projects that accommodate the growing population and diversifies the economy. 2.1.4 Soldiers Memorial Hall Revitalisation Project, Pall Mall. Advocate for State and Federal funding support so construction can commence. 5.3: Essential infrastructure is constructed, maintained and renewed to meet the needs of current and future residents. 5.3.1 Deliver building project approved by Council Strategy Reference (include weblink as applicable): NA Council Policy Reference (include weblink as applicable): In exercise of the power conferred by section 98(1) of the Local Government Act 1989, the Greater Bendigo City Council delegated the Chief Executive Officer with, amongst other things, the authority to award contracts up to the value of $1,500,000 and approve variations to contracts up to $150,000. As a major project, $150,000 represents less than 10% of the contract sum and may represent an unnecessary administrative burden in the event that the full contingency for the project is required due to unforeseen variations. A recommendation of this report is to authorise the CEO to approve variations of up to 10% of the contract sum.


The City of Greater Bendigo and Bendigo Soldiers Memorial have been working together for approximately five years seeking to redevelop and expand the Bendigo Soldiers Memorial Institute facilities. The project will result in full restoration and conservation works to the original Memorial and construction of a new exhibition space. The new wing replaces the rear asbestos-clad addition. The design won strong support from the Victorian Government Architect’s Design Review Panel.


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The new Corten (rusty steel) clad wing will house preparation and storage space in a second floor hidden within the roof, as well as ground floor space for temporary exhibitions, a compact catering kitchen for functions, and accessible toilet facilities. The new wing will meet AA International Museum standards to enable loans from other institutions, and is designed to minimise energy use. It is funded through a Federal Government grant of $1.7 million, a State Government Living Heritage Grant of $1.5 million, an $800,000 commitment from Council over 2 financial years and $500,000 from the RSL ($250,000 through fundraising). Following an Expression of Interest process and subsequent shortlist tender process, in which prospective contractors were required to demonstrate their experience and abilities, (particularly with regard to specialist heritage aspects) to undertake the project, 2 tenders have been received. The construction is expected to commence in late May and take 18 months, with a proposed completion date of September 2018. Previous Council Decision(s) Date(s): At the Ordinary Council meeting held in November 2015 Council resolved to:

Endorse the proposed Soldiers Memorial Institute Revitalisation project as described in the design by Lovell Chen, and to proceed to advertising of the permit applications.

Confirm that Council supports a contribution to the project of $800,000 over 2 financial years out of the Renewal and Upgrade budget and project expertise from existing staff resources, and supports seeking external funding from State and Federal government sources.

Continue to work with the RSL in the project development and in confirming their contribution.

The recommendations of the report were carried unanimously and moved by Cr Campbell and Seconded by Cr Cox

Report

Prior to tender the process commencing, a full design review process was undertaken to consider design efficiencies. This process was undertaken in consultation with Bendigo District RSL. An Expression of Interest process was undertaken to ensure prospective contractors demonstrated their experience and abilities, in particular with regard to specialist heritage aspects, to undertake this unique and significant project. Expression of Interest closed on Tuesday 31st January 2017. Four conforming bids were received from:

1. Nicholson Construction

2. Gerard K House Pty Ltd

3. BLR Provincial Construction

4. Walsh & Omeara Builders


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Tender submissions were evaluated on the following criteria:

Criteria Weighting

Capability 60%

Capacity 30%

Local Content 10%

Risk Management Pass - Fail

The opportunity to Tender was extended to all four Construction Contractors and closed on Tuesday 4th April 2017. Two conforming bids were received from:

1. Nicholson Construction

2. BLR Provincial Construction

Tender submissions were evaluated on the following criteria:

Criteria Weighting

Value 40%

Capability 30%

Capacity 20%

Local Content 10%

Risk Management Pass - Fail

The Tender Evaluation Committee met and a preferred contractor was chosen on merit and scoring based on the above criterion. Referees were contacted and provided positive recommendations for the preferred contractor. Invitation to observe the Tender process was also extended to the President of the Bendigo RSL, and both State and Federal Government funding representatives. State Government Living Heritage Grant representatives were present at the meeting. Two members of the evaluation committee were unable to attend the scheduled evaluation meeting, and submitted scoring to the Chair for inclusion. Signatures were obtained on the Tender Evaluation Worksheet from panel members in attendance; one of the absent panel members signature has been executed, with the remaining signature currently being obtained. A Probity Advisor was also present during the Tender Evaluation process. There were no concerns raised on the process undertaken and/or the outcome achieved. Probity Advisor will issue formal documentation confirming this advice upon receipt of completed Tender Evaluation Worksheet. Priority/Importance: This project has been adopted as part of the 2016/17 Council budget.


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Options/Alternatives: Council has the opportunity to award tender CT000313 – Bendigo Soldiers Memorial Institute. Alternatively, Council may choose not to award the contract and forgo funding secured through the Federal Government of $1.7 million and State Government Living Heritage Grant of $1.5 million, or work with stakeholders to reduce the scope and cost of the project further, resulting on a focus towards minor conservation works to the existing building only. Timelines: The preferred contractor has indicated an 18 month works period commencing early May and concluding September 2018. The Soldiers Memorial has been fully decanted and is ready for handover to the preferred Contractor. This program enables the City’s 2017 Easter program and the RSL’s Anzac Day celebrations to be undertaken without disruption. The duration of the works will however extend over 2018 Easter and Anzac Day celebrations. Discussions have already commenced with internal stakeholders to ensure flexibilities around a shared space strategy are identified during this time with the preferred contractor. Progress: Detailed design was completed in June 2015. A capital expense budget of $800,000 has been approved through the Building Infrastructure Renewal an Upgrade budget over the 15/16 and 16/17 years, and supports additional funding secured from the RSL of $500,000, Federal Government of $1.7m and State Government Living Heritage Fund of $1.5m, resulting in a total project budget of $4,500,000. $1,000,000 of this revenue has been claimed from Heritage Victoria Living Heritage Fund. Federal Government Community Development Grants Programme Deed of Agreement for $1,700,000 is now ready for execution. A recommendation of this report is to authorise the CEO to undertake necessary administrative steps to endorse the $1,700,000 Federal Government Community Development Grant Programme Deed of Agreement. A planning permit was granted 29th March 2016 and Heritage Permit 26th May 2016 for the project. A formal expression of interest and shortlist tender process was undertaken in January 2017, and was followed by a tender process in March 2017. A preferred builder was selected following an evaluation process.


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Risk Analysis: Extensive time has been taken to review the consultant’s tender documents, in order to minimise risk in the construction phase as much as possible and avoid costly Variations. There is however financial risk associated with the capping of the mine and the unforeseen number of mines and conditions currently located under the building.


Internal Consultation: As part of the design process, an internal review was undertaken throughout and included the following internal stakeholders;

Property – Building materials and maintenance

Engineering – mine shaft capping

Environmental Health – kitchen layout and compliance

Building – Building compliance and DDA

Parks & Natural Reserves – Tree protection

Strategy – CBD Structure Plan

Art Gallery – gallery design and requirements External Consultation: Bendigo RSL is contributing $500,000 toward this project ($250,000 through fundraising). The Community Development Grants Program and Heritage Victoria Living Heritage Program Group are supporting delivery with $2.9M funding. These entities were given the opportunity to take part in the evaluation panel as observers to ensure they were satisfied with the transparency and thoroughness of the process.


The tendered sum was $4,242,282 which includes provisional sums of:

Existing Building: $302,472.00

New Construction: $177,316.00

Provisional items are required to deliver this project in the most efficient and effective way. Total project cost including provision sums and contingency reflects the following:

Tender price $3,762,494

Provisional items $479,788

Total: $4,242,282

Contingency 6% $254,537

Total project cost $4,496,819

Including a contingency sum of 6% the total project cost is $4,496,819.


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Budget Allocation in the Current Financial Year: $800,000 City of Greater Bendigo External Funding Sources: $500,000 Bendigo RSL $1,500,000 State Government Living Heritage Fund $1,700,000 Federal Government Community Development Grants Programme Current Estimate: Tendered price: $3,762,494 Provisional sum $479,788 Total contract sum: $4,242,282 Contingency $254,537 Total project cost allowance: $4,496,819 Any known or anticipated variance to budget: Nil identified Previous Council Support: Council previously allocated $250,000 for detailed design as part of the 2014/15 budget which $180,000 was funded through the Community Development Grants Programme. Projected costs for future financial years: Council will own this asset once constructed. Depreciation and renewal will need to be considered over the life of these assets. Any ongoing recurrent expenditure required: Bendigo RSL will operate this site under a Lease arrangement and as such they are responsible for all operational outgoings.

Conclusion

Since 2014 the City in conjunction with the Bendigo RSL have completed design and tendered the Bendigo Soldiers Memorial Institute Revitalisation Project works. Tenders were called through an Expression of Interest and shortlist tender process, with two responses received and Nicholson Constructions considered the preferred tender.

Attachments

1. Confidential Tender Evaluation Scoring

Presentation and Vibrancy - Reports Ordinary Meeting - 19 April 2017

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5. PRESENTATION AND VIBRANCY

5.1 COMMUNITY GRANTS ROUND 2 2017


Author Bryce Kilian, Acting Coordinator Connecting Communities Responsible Vicky Mason, Director Health and Wellbeing Director

Purpose

This report presents the recommended funding allocations for Round 2 of the 2016/2017 Community Grants and seeks Council endorsement of those.

Summary

Round 2 of the 2016/2017 Community Grants opened 1 February and closed 28 February and 91 eligible applications were received The Community Assessment Panels have recommended funding for 68 applications that were assessed as meeting the criteria. The total recommended funding allocations of $195,851.20 is within the available Round 2 budget of $263,681.20.

RECOMMENDATION

That Council: 1. Endorse the Community Assessment Panels’ recommendations to allocate

$195,851.20 funding in 2016/2017 Community Grants Round 2 across 68 applicants. 2. Thank all Community Assessment Panel members for volunteering their time to

assess the applications and to develop the funding recommendations for Council consideration.

RESOLUTION Moved Cr Fyffe, Seconded Cr Metcalf. That the recommendation be adopted.

CARRIED

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~


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Policy Context

Council Plan Reference: The Community Grants are consistent with Council Plan 2013 – 2017 (2016/2017 update) strategic objective 3.7: Structured community engagement, community planning and community development programs support our residents and communities, particularly those who may experience isolation. Council Policy Reference : Community Grants Policy (Policy) and Program Guidelines (Guidelines)


This report relates to Round 2 of the 2016/2017 Community Grants (Round 2). There are seven categories of grants offered under the Community Grants:

• Active and Healthy Communities;

• Arts;

• Community Development;

• Community Events;

• Driver Education for Youth (a temporary category);

• Environmental Sustainability;

• Print and Digital Publications.

In accordance with the Guidelines, Community Assessment Panels were convened to consider the applications received for each of the seven categories. The Guidelines require Council to consult with the respective Panel prior to the resolution of funding allocations if any variations to Panel funding recommendations are proposed.

As per the Policy, 10% of the budget for each category is set aside as a ‘reserve’ to provide capacity for Quick Response Grants for community needs that may arise outside of Grant funding rounds. The exception to this is the Driver Education for Youth category as the funds for this category is externally sourced.

The Quick Response Grants reserves for 2016/2017 are:

Active and Healthy Communities $10,712

Arts $8,561

Community Development $13,390

Community Events $7,496

Driver Education for Youth $0

Environmental Sustainability $4,280

Print and Digital Publications $3,205

TOTAL $47,644


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Previous Council Decision(s) Date(s):

11 February 2015: Council adopted the revised Policy and Guidelines. 5 August 2015: Council endorsed minor amendments to the Policy and Guidelines. 16 December 2015: Council appointed the Community Assessment Panel members. 21 September 2016: Council resolved upon the 2016/2017 Community Grant Round one funding allocations.

Report

Round 2 applications opened on 1 February 2017 and closed on 28 February 2017.

There have been 91 eligible applications received for Round 2. This represents 26 more than the 65 received for Round 1 of the 2016/2017 Community Grants (Round 1).

Total of Round 2 funding available

Total of applications

received

Total of funding

requested

Total of applications

recommended by Panel for

funding

Total of Panel recommended

funding allocations

Active and Healthy Communities

$55,680

21 $77,450 17 $55,670

Arts $43,747

5 $15,836 4 $10,836

Community Development

$60,257

28 $118,185 21 $60,150

Community Events

$51,530

13 $36,881 10 $17,248

Driver Education for Youth

$10,040.20 4 $24,399 2 $10,040.20

Environmental Sustainability

$23,078

9 $26,970 8 $23,070

Print and Digital Publications

$18,850 11 $39,765 6 $18,837

TOTAL

$263,182.20 91 $339,486 68 $195,851.20


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Quick Response Grants

Quick Response Grant funding of $28,950 has been distributed to 17 applicants since the last report to Council on 21 September 2016. This leaves a balance of $13,689 for the remainder of 2016/2017.

Quick Response Grants

Organisation Project Details Category Amount

Bendigo Soldiers’ Memorial Military Museum

Purchase hooks and lines for Australia Will Be There exhibition

Arts $1,210

Goldfields Library Corporation - Bendigo

Alice in Eaglehawk community performance

Arts $1,000

Heathcote Show Society

Traffic management costs for 2016 agricultural show

Community Events

$2,000

Redesdale Recreation Reserve Committee of Management

Redesdale outdoor cinema (part of the Summer in the Parks program. This event was impacted by the withdrawal of a previous sponsor)


$2,000

Salvation Army Chill Out Space support


$2,000

Epsom Community Church

Community Christmas Festival 2016.

Community Events

$1,496

Marong Cricket Club

Replace essential flood damaged equipment


$1,799

Bendigo Hawks Aquatic Club

Centenary swimming carnival support


$1,800

Bushfire Foundation

Community fire prevention equipment / trailer


$2,000

Elmore and District Field Days

Elmore outdoor cinema (part of the Summer in the Parks program. This event was impacted by the withdrawal of a previous sponsor)


$1,100

Life FM Radio Bendigo community Christmas Carols broadcast


$1,190


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Bendigo Chinese Association

Chinese New Year 2017

Arts $2,000

Afghani Community

Afghan New Year 2017


$2,000

Bob Brown Foundation

Art exhibition Arts $1,605

Friends of Crusoe and Number 7 Reservoir

Fauna and habitat survey


$2,000

Bendigo Women’s Football

Purchase a trailer for storage and travel

Active and Healthy

$1750

Marong and District Men’s Shed

Upgrade power board and install 6 power points


$2000

TOTAL

$28,950

The tables below outline the funding allocations recommended by the Panels for each Grant category. The maximum funding available in any category or to any organisation (with the exception of applications made under the Driver Education for Youth category) is $5,000. Some applications were not recommended by the Panels for funding as: • They were incomplete. • They were assessed as not meeting the Guidelines. • The category was oversubscribed. • The requested funding was for an ongoing resource. In some cases the Panels have recommended partial funding due to applications not demonstrating sufficient merit to justify the maximum amount requested. Active and Healthy Communities

Organisation Project Description Amount Sought

Amount Recommended

by Panel

White Hills Community Pool

Aquatic play equipment $5000 $5000

Maiden Gully Primary School

Energy Breakthrough $5000 $2870

Bendigo Rowing Club

Purchase a Lake Mower and mounting bracket

$4000 $4000

Bendigo Pre-School Vegetable Garden $800 $800

U3A Bendigo Ensuring the safety of our members. Purchase of Defibrillator

$2000 $2000

Quarry Hill Primary School

Bike Education – purchase of new bikes to increase

$2500 $2500


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Amount Recommended

by Panel

participation

Bendigo District Cricket Umpires Association

Purchase books for umpire resources

$1400 $350

Hurricanes Netball Club

Purchase of new uniforms and medical supplies.

$3500 $3500

Bendigo Squash Club

Replace end wall of courts to be height adjustable.

$5000 $5000

Elmore Progress Association

Pilates Program for Elmore Community

$5000 $4000

Active Travel, Healthy Kids Community Network

Active travel workshops (encouraging kids to walk, ride, scoot to school)

$3350 $1850

Bendigo Senior Secondary College

EAL VCAL Introduction to swimming and water safety

$1800 $1800

Strathdale Soccer Club

Purchase of Water bottles and fridges for food storage.

$5000 $5000

Lockwood Tennis Club

Replacement of shade structures

$2000

$2000

Sandhurst Snooker and Billiard Club Inc.

Purchase of competition grade pool tables

$5000 $5000

Golden Square Primary School

Purchase of new HPV (human powered vehicle) and spare parts

$5000

$5000

St Liborius Primary School

Fitness Circuit – purchase of fitness equipment

$5000 $5000

TOTAL

$61,350 $55,670

Arts


Amount Recommended

by Panel

Heathcote Artists Affordable and accessible Life Drawing classes

$3650 $3650

Bendigo Young Writers Association

Inkslingers – Author Workshops

$1000 $1000

Bendigo Art Society 2017 Dudley House Exhibition $1886 $1886

Star Cinema A moving experiment in still life – participation in exhibitions, drawing and installation of art.

$4300 $4300

TOTAL

$10,836 $10,836


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Amount Recommended

by Panel

Strathdale Senior Citizens

Kitchen upgrade and install a dishwasher

$4750 $2000

Foundation 97 Commence running a spinal cord injury support network monthly meeting with some planned activities

$5000 $4000

Discovery Science and Technology Centre

The project aims to share a piece of Dja Dja Wurrung culture and link it to a simple experiment.

$3800 $3800

Spring Gully Hall Committee

Install 3 phase solar system on hall to reduce continually increasing electricity costs

$5000 $5000

Bendigo Gliding Club

Carry out remedial works on the runway

$2000 $2000

Lifeline Central Vic and Mallee

Semester 2 2017 - Telephone Crisis Supporter Training

$5000 $5000

Bendigo Philatelic Society

Trial of daytime meetings to meet member circumstances

$300 $300

Rotary Club of Kangaroo Flat

Community First Aid Defibrillator

$5000 $3000

St Therese’s Primary School

Portable Staging for Community Space

$5000 $2000

Bendigo Regional YMCA

Seating upgrade at Strathdale Community Centre

$5000 $2500

Rotary Club of Bendigo Sandhurst

Enhancing development and sustainability of a large knitting group by building a new shed

$5000 $2500

Bendigo District Aboriginal Co-op

Purchase of equipment for Bendigo Aboriginal Men’s Shed

$4925 $3500

Goornong Memorial Hall Committee Inc.

Sanding and Refurbishment of the Goornong Memorial Hall floor

$5000 $5000

Bendigo Primary School (Violet St)

LEGO club – purchase of LEGO, storage containers, mate and instruction sheets

$1400 $750

Bendigo Amateur Radio & Electronics Club Inc.

Installation of Air-Conditioner at Longlea School.

$4000 $4000

Saltbush Community Initiatives Inc.

Purchase of supplies for creative and tactile play

$400 $400

LCMS The Welcome Dinner project – Connecting refugee families

$5000 $1000


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Amount Recommended

by Panel

with established Australian families.

Golden Square Bowling and Croquet Club Inc.

Upgrade tea room and office into full kitchen and servery.

$5000 $2500

105.1 Life FM ( Central Victorian Gospel Radio)

Purchase of outside broadcasting equipment and training for volunteers

$5000 $5000

Woodvale Hall Committee of Management

Extension of Power to the gates of the Woodvale Hall

$2905 $2000

Bendigo Steam and Oil Engine Preservation Group

Concrete works in area used for public access

$4805 $3900

TOTAL

$84,285 $60,150

Community Events


Amount Recommended

by Panel

Kangaroo Flat Community Group

Family Fun Day 2017 $4530 $4530

Special Olympics Australia

Hire 2 venues for the Special Olympics Bendigo in 2017

$1350 $1350

Junortoun Community Action Group

Funding assistance for three community events in Junortoun in 2017/18

$1945 $1945

Bendigo Orchid Club Annual Spring Show 2017 $1000 $1000

Jemima’s Gift - Pet Carers

Equipment and permits for Pet-carers Expo 2017

$2183 $2000

Karen Organisation of Bendigo

Karen New Year 2018 to assist with cultural performances and catering

$2500 $2500

Weeroona Social Club

Euchre Tournament – assistance for venue, stationary and catering

$700 $700

Friends of the Bendigo Botanic Gardens

Plant Sale - signage and advertising

$523 $523

Karen Culture and Social Support Foundation

Karen Wrist Tying Ceremony 2017 – venue, costumes, food and decorations

$4150 $1000

Bendigo All Breeds Bendigo Goat Fest – $4000 $1700


PAGE 59


Amount Recommended

by Panel

Goat Show advertising and venue setup

TOTAL

$22,881 $17,248

Driver Education for Youth


Amount Recommended

by Panel

Fit to Drive Foundation

F2D Year 11 workshops which include half-day road-safety education programs

$4695 $5020.10

Interchange Loddon Mallee

A program to educate six young people(16-21) with disability as safe and legal drivers

$5000 $5020.10

TOTAL

$9695

$10,040.20



Amount Recommended

by Panel

Mid-Loddon Sub Catchment Management Group

An environmental education program including planting of indigenous species at Big Hill

$1100 $1100

Bendigo Violet Street Primary School

Purchase new tools for the school garden

$3175 $3175

Salvation Army Bendigo

Purchase and install 2 water tanks and convert 2 existing garden beds into more water efficient wicking beds

$5000 $5000

St Peters Primary School

Expand kitchen garden and learn hospitality skills

$5000 $1650

Loddon Mallee Pre-School Association

Expansion of existing frog ponds beside Spring Gully Kindergarten

$4950 $4950

Junortoun Community Action Group

Document the local species, using common name, scientific name and a brief description of species at the Manning Reserve

$3000 $3000

Mid-Loddon Sub The addition of two Bush $3315 $3315


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Amount Recommended

by Panel

Catchment Management Group

Stone-curlew captive breeding enclosures extensions

Bendigo Sustainability Group

Sustainable Gardening Workshop Series

$880 $880

TOTAL

$26,420 $23,070



Amount Recommended

by Panel

Mid-Loddon Sub Catchment Management Group

Re-print Fungi ID Guide of the Box Ironbark Forests and Woodlands of Central Victoria

$1180 $1180

Australian Institute of Genealogical Studies, Bendigo

Print the history of Friendly Societies in Bendigo 1856-1916

$2257 $2257

Northern Bendigo Landcare Group

Use funds to print hard copies of Living next to nature booklet and postcards to direct people to finding the resource online

$4623 $2100

Marong Community Action Group

Engagement of Digital Webpage Designer to design and build responsive template and other associated matters related to Website plus hosting for 1 year Domain name registration for 2 years

$5000 $5000

Bendigo Soldiers Memorial Institute

Design and development of website for the Roll of Honour Project

$3300 $3300

Bendigo Agricultural Show Society

Update and upgrade the Society’s webpage with photos and relevant information

$5000 $5000

TOTAL

$21,360 $18,837

Successful and unsuccessful applicants are advised via email of their application outcome following Council’s resolution. Successful applicants are required to enter into a Funding Agreement (FA) with the City of Greater Bendigo (City). The FA outlines the scope of the funded project as well as the City’s and the grant recipient’s responsibilities. Funds are only released to grant recipients upon receipt of the signed FA and an invoice.


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Funding offers may be revoked if a signed FA and an invoice are not received within 30 days of the funding offer being made. Unsuccessful applicants are encouraged to contact the Community Grant Officer for clarification and assistance with future applications. Timelines: Projects funded under Round 2 are required to: • Commence on or after 1 June 2017; • Be completed within one year; and, • Submit Project Evaluation Forms / Acquittals within 60 days of project

completion. Recipients who do not fulfil this requirement may be ineligible to receive further City funding. Risk Analysis: All Round 2 applications were assessed in line with the Policy and Guidelines. All Panel members were required to declare conflicts of interest in any applications. Where conflicts of interest were declared, Panel members were required to leave the room when the respective applications were being assessed. The Panels are required to recommend funding allocations that are within the set budget for the category.


Round 2 applications were encouraged through media releases, public notices, the City’s social media pages and website, plus City staff email networks. The City’s Community Partnerships Unit facilitated two free workshops about grant seeking, grant application writing and project management in the lead up to Round 2. These were attended by 30 representatives from various community groups. Both City of Greater Bendigo staff and recurring Panel members have observed a marked improvement in the quality of applications being received since the City has been offering these workshops.


Budget Allocation in the Current Financial Year: The total Round 2 budget allocation is $263,182.20. This includes the funds currently held in a reserve for the Driver Education for Youth category. The Panels have recommended that 68 of the 91 applicants (or 75%) be allocated some funding. The total amount of Round 2 funding recommended by the Panels is $195,851.20.


PAGE 62

Attachments

1. Confidential attachment: Not recommended applications. 2. Confidential attachment: Rationale for any partial funding recommendations.


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5.2 FARMING ADVISORY COMMITTEE – MEMBER APPOINTMENTS


Author Jenny Pendlebury, Rural Development Coordinator Bryce Kilian, Acting Coordinator Connecting Communities Responsible Vicky Mason, Director Health and Wellbeing Director

Purpose

To provide Council with details of the Expressions of Interest received for membership of the Greater Bendigo Farming Advisory Committee (Committee), and for Council to consider the interview panel’s recommendations regarding member appointments.

Summary

The Committee acts as a resource for Council with regards to general advice and strategic representation on farming sector issues and opportunities. It also functions to support the development and implementation of relevant Council strategies, policies and advocacy positions. In accordance with the Committee’s Terms of Reference, Expressions of Interest for Committee membership were publically sought throughout January and February 2017. There were 13 applications received. Following an interview process, 10 out of the 13 applicants are being recommended for Committee membership based on their significant sector knowledge / experience (refer Confidential Attachment 2) and other factors such as community connections and networks.


PAGE 64

RECOMMENDATION

That Council:

1. In accordance with the Greater Bendigo Farming Advisory Committee Terms of Reference, appoint to the Committee the following applicants: Darren Heritage Fiona Cannon Geoff Kroker Jim Long Ken Laing Martin Szakal Michael Crapper Rodney Luke Ross McKinstry Warren Smith

2. Write to all applicants to thank them for their interest in the Greater Bendigo Farming Advisory Committee and formally advise them of the outcome of their Expression of Interest for Committee membership.

RESOLUTION Moved Cr Metcalf, Seconded Cr Fyffe. That the recommendation be adopted.

CARRIED

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Policy Context

This report is consistent with the following: Council Plan Reference: 1.4 Continue to improve Council’s communications and engagement practices to support open and inclusive decision making and reach diverse audiences. 3.7.3 Implement agreed actions from the adopted Rural Communities Strategy. Strategy Reference: Greater Bendigo Rural Communities Strategy (2016)


PAGE 65


The inaugural Committee was formed in 2013 and its term expired in 2016. The outgoing Committee undertook a review of the Committee’s Terms of Reference in August 2016. The purpose of the review was to ensure that any new Committee would be best placed to provide representative and strategic advice to Council. The outgoing Committee recommended some minor amendments to the Committee’s Terms of Reference and these were considered and endorsed by Council on December 14, 2016. Previous Council Decision(s) Date(s): April 17, 2013: Council resolved to establish the Committee. September 11, 2013: Council appointed nine Committee members following a public Expression of Interest process. August 31, 2016: Council adopted the Greater Bendigo Rural Communities Strategy. December 14, 2016: Council adopted revised Committee Terms of Reference. At the same meeting Councillors Emond, Metcalf and O’Rourke were appointed as Council representatives on the Committee.

Report

The Committee’s Terms of Reference describe its broad purpose as “to provide general advice and strategic representation to Council with respect to farming and rural issues and opportunities, as well as to support Council in the development and implementation of strategies, policies and advocacy positions relative to the farming and rural sectors”. Following Council’s adoption of the revised Committee Terms of Reference in December 2016, Expressions of Interest for membership of the Committee were publically sought throughout January and February 2017. Applicants were encouraged to respond to Key Selection Criteria as part of their Expression of Interest. In total, 13 Expressions of Interest for Committee membership were received (Details of all 13 applicants are included within Confidential Attachment 1). The 13 applicants were interviewed by a panel comprised of Cr Emond or Cr Metcalf plus the City’s Coordinator Connecting Communities Deb Simpson and Rural Development Coordinator Jenny Pendlebury. The interviews were conducted between February 27 and March 1, 2017. The interview panel were unanimous in their recommendation of the 10 applicants for membership of the Committee. It is the interview panel’s opinion that these 10 applicants all individually satisfied the key selection criteria and collectively offer an excellent mix of enthusiasm, agricultural experience, advocacy and leadership skills, diversity of enterprise, connections with the broader rural community and a good geographical spread across the municipality.


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While the Committee’s Terms of Reference allows for a maximum of 12 members it is the interview panel’s opinion that the remaining three applicants, whilst having demonstrated some relevant knowledge / experience, did not adequately satisfy one or more of the key selection criteria. (A summary of notes from the interviews for the 10 recommended is provided within Confidential Attachment 2). Priority/Importance: The inaugural Committee (2013–2016) helped to demonstrate how the farming sector and rural communities are integral to regional sustainability and Council’s vision of ‘Greater Bendigo – working together to be Australia’s most liveable regional city’. It was also instrumental in the development of the Greater Bendigo Rural Communities Strategy which Council adopted in August 2016.


Expressions of Interest for membership of the Committee were promoted through local newspapers, local television, community newsletters, relevant email networks plus the City’s website and social media accounts. The City’s Rural Development Coordinator responded to enquiries from interested community members during the Expression of Interest period.


The City’s Rural Development Coordinator will provide administrative support to the Committee. This responsibility is incorporated within the Rural Development Coordinator Position Description. The City’s commitment to this administrative support is also outlined within the Committee’s Terms of Reference.

Attachments

Confidential Attachment 1 - List of applicants for Greater Bendigo Farming Advisory Committee membership. Confidential Attachment 2 - Applicants recommended for Greater Bendigo Farming Advisory Committee membership.


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5.3 BENDIGO MAUBISSE FRIENDSHIP COMMITTEE - REVIEW OF INSTRUMENT OF DELEGATION


Author Steven Abbott, Manager Community Partnerships Responsible Vicky Mason, Director Health and Wellbeing Director

Purpose

Seek Council support for a reviewed Instrument of Delegation under Section 86 of the Local Government Act 1989, for the Bendigo Maubisse Friendship Committee.

Summary

Within twelve months following a Council election, a review of the Instrument of Delegation (Instrument) for the Bendigo Maubisse Friendship Committee (Committee) must be undertaken. The revised instrument (Attachment 1) reflects Council’s commitment to their role and relationship with Maubisse in the District of Ainaro, in Timor Leste. The report also provides background information to this review and the long term relationship with Timor Leste and support through its friendship Committee.

RECOMMENDATION

That Council supports the Instrument of Delegation to authorise the continuance of the Bendigo Maubisse Friendship Committee under Section 86 of the Local Government Act 1989, until June 2019. RESOLUTION Moved Cr Alden, Seconded Cr Fyffe. That the recommendation be adopted.

CARRIED ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~


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Policy Context

International Relations Policy This policy, which was adopted by Council in 2014, provides an overarching framework for the City’s engagement in the international arena. This policy relates to different types of international relationships the City may engage in which may serve a variety of interests of the Greater Bendigo community. The Policy aims to increase accountability and confidence of the community in the social, cultural and economic value of the City’s involvement with international partners.


Friendship relations between Australia and Timor Leste were first set up to assist East Timorese local communities during a very difficult period following the violent withdrawal of Indonesia from East Timor in 1999—a period during which East Timor, moved towards independence in May 2002. By November 2005 there were 50 friendship city relationships, most of these being with cities and communities in the state of Victoria, the others being in New South Wales, Queensland and the Australian Capital Territory. The increasing number of friendship city arrangements supported an enthusiasm of Australians to involve their local governments and communities in the future of the people of Timor Leste. The arrangements have proved to be a valuable form of development assistance for the new nation as it continues to emerge from the destruction of occupation and civil conflict. The Greater Bendigo Council relationship with Timor Leste commenced in late 2006 when it established the Committee to work with the community of Maubisse. The Committee works on a community to community basis to undertake a range of projects to assist the people of Maubisse in the District of Ainaro in Timor Leste. Like most parts of Timor Leste, the Maubisse community experiences challenges, including lack of employment, government structures, health services, education and transport. Many Maubisse residents come from farming families with a number earning less than $350 per year. Some families live without power, running water or transport. Timor Leste has one of the highest infant mortality rates in the world with only 10 per cent of mothers having medical support during childbirth. The high rate of childhood malnutrition also poses a significant challenge. The Committee contributes to improving standards of living, access to essential services, training, capacity building, arts and social programs in the Maubisse community.


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The Committee functions formally as a Special Committee of Council under Section 86 of the Local Government Act 1989 (the Act). The Act provides for a Council to delegate some of its functions, duties or powers to Special Committees that then operate under an Instrument of Delegation. Section 86 Committees are, in essence, an extension of Council. They are subject to the same stringent governance and administrative requirements as Council and therefore compliance is important. Current and former Mayors and Councillors have had a strong involvement with these committees, and have been a part of visiting delegations (the most recent being Mayor Councillor Margaret O’Rourke in January 2017). Some of the past achievements include:

English teaching and training;

Secondary education scholarship program;

Community kitchen program; and

Development and delivery of materials (such as furniture). For more detailed information please see 2015/16 Annual Report (Attachment 2). Council has funded the Committee since its inception in the 2006/07 financial year with an initial establishment grant of $65,000 and $50,000 for each subsequent year. Council has also supported the Committee by making a bus available to transport members and other volunteers to and from the airport when participating in a delegation to Maubisse. Administrative support is also provided to work with the Committee and upload minutes of meetings, provide general administrative advice and oversee the arrangements such as insurance for each delegation travelling to Timor Leste. In February 2017 a presentation briefing was made to Council by the Committee to provide background, recent achievements and current priorities, as well as presenting the 2015/16 Annual Report. Previous Council Decision(s) Date(s): 30 September 2015 In September 2015 the Council reviewed its ongoing role and relationship with Maubisse and resolved to proceed with a number of actions, some of which included: That Council:

Authorise the continuance of the Bendigo Maubisse Friendship Committee under Section 86 of the Local Government Act 1989 until June 2019;

Agree to fund the current 2015/16 financial year contribution of $50,000 to Committee;

Agree to an annual financial contribution to the Committee of $50,000 per year for the next three years until June 2019;

Undertake a review of the Committee and its operations in the 2018-2019 financial year allowing sufficient time for Council to consider its positon post June 2019; and


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Acknowledge and express appreciation to the many organisations and individual volunteers, who have willingly given time and energy in support of the Maubisse community development, through the Committee.

Other actions determined by Council related to forming a joint partnership with the City of Ballarat which is undertaking similar work in the District Capital, Ainaro. The formation of this partnership is currently underway between the respective Committees.

Report

Since the previous Council consideration in 2015, the Committee has continued to operate under Section 86 of the Local Government Act. The Committee has supported the review of the Instrument of Delegation and considers that they are capable of continuing to meet the requirements of the Local Government Act. The Instrument of Delegation attached (Attachment 1) effectively provides a clear checklist of statutory requirements of the Committee. The revised Instrument aims to ensure the Committee is clear of their responsibilities and can operate effectively. A further review of the Committee and its operations will be undertaken in the 2018-2019 financial year allowing sufficient time for Council to consider its positon post June 2019.

Attachments

1. Revised Instrument of Delegation 2. Annual Report 2015/16


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Section 86 Special Committee

Instrument of Delegation

Bendigo Maubisse Friendship Committee


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INSTRUMENT OF DELEGATION

In accordance with section 86(3) of the Local Government Act 1989, Greater Bendigo City Council HEREBY DELEGATE the functions, duties and powers specified in Item 1 to the Special Committee known as the Bendigo Maubisse Friendship Committee subject to any conditions and limitations as set out in Item 2 of the attached Schedule to this Instrument of Delegation. This Instrument of Delegation is authorised by a resolution of Council passed on XX March 2017. This delegation comes into effect immediately the Common Seal of the Council is affixed to this Instrument. This delegation must be exercised in accordance with statutory requirements and any guidelines, policies and other governance arrangements which Council may from time to time adopt.

DATED this day of 2017 APPROVED under the COMMON SEAL ) of GREATER BENDIGO CITY COUNCIL ) in the presence of: ) ………………………………………………… Chief Executive Officer


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SCHEDULE

1. To develop a mutual relationship with the City of Ballarat for the district of Ainaro (of which Maubisse is a part) to provide a co-ordinated approach for the Bendigo Maubisse Friendship Committee to provide and facilitate relevant volunteer support for the Maubisse community in line with the needs of the Ainaro district and community of Maubisse as identified by the Timor Leste Development Program and governing authority of the Ainaro district and with the approval of the co-ordinating authority. Promote opportunities for all people of the City of Greater Bendigo to participate in a range of activities that support the friendship relationship with a work plan developed in collaboration with the City of Ballarat.

2. The Special Committee cannot exercise – (1) the power of delegation;

(2) the power to borrow money, including an overdraft or credit facility from a

credit institution; (3) the power to declare a rate or charge; (4) the power to enter into contracts; (5) the power to enter into memoranda of understanding, agreements or other

arrangements with local, state or national authorities without prior approval of the Council;

(6) the power to incur any expenditure exceeding the amount in an adopted

budget for the financial year as approved by the Council; and (7) any prescribed power. The Special Committee must- (1) apply funding only for the purpose of improving the development outcomes of

people living in Maubisse.


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SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION Statutory requirements Establishment The Council establishes special committees of the Council.

The Council appoints members to a special committee and may, at any time, remove a member from a special committee. The Council appoints a Chairperson for a special committee. If the Council has not appointed a Chairperson, the members of the special committee must appoint a Chairperson. The appointment of a treasurer, secretary or any other office bearers is a matter for the special committee.

If the Chairperson is not present at a meeting of a special committee the members must appoint a Chairperson for that meeting. Meetings

A meeting of a special committee must be held at a time and place determined by the special committee and public notice by way of advertisement must be given of such a meeting.

Until approved by the Council a decision of a special committee which does not relate to a matter delegated to the special committee cannot be given effect to.

Meetings of a special committee must be open to members of the public unless the special committee resolves to close the meetings to discuss a matter specified in section 89 of the Act.

If a meeting of a special committee is to be closed to members of the public the reason must be recorded in the minutes of the meeting. Committee meetings must be conducted in accordance with Council’s meeting procedure local law. Voting

Each member of a special committee present at a meeting of the special committee who is entitled to vote is entitled to one vote.

Unless the procedures of the special committee provide otherwise, voting must be by a show of hands.

Voting at a meeting that is open to members of the public must not be in secret.


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A question before a special committee is determined in the affirmative by a majority of the members of the special committee present at a meeting at the time the vote is taken voting in favour of the question. If the number of votes in favour of the question is half the number of members of the special committee present at the meeting at the time the vote is taken, the Chairperson has a second vote. Conduct of meetings Except as provided in the Act, the conduct of meetings of a special committee is in the special committee’s discretion. A quorum at a meeting of a special committee must be at least a majority of the members of the special committee. Resolutions made at a meeting of a special committee must clearly state the intention and effect of the resolution. The Chairperson shall call a special meeting forthwith upon receiving from any of three (3) members of the Committee of which he or she may be one, a written request that such a meeting be called. The request shall contain a statement of the purpose of the meeting. The meeting will be held on such date and at a time fixed by the Chairperson, being not sooner than seven (7) days nor later than twenty-one (21) days after the date on which the Chairperson receives the request. The Chairperson shall arrange for notice of the meeting to be given to all Committee members and to members of the public. Minutes of meetings The Chairperson of a special committee must arrange for minutes of each meeting of the committee to be kept. The Chairperson must submit the minutes of a committee meeting to the next meeting of the committee for confirmation. If the minutes are confirmed the Chairperson at the meeting must sign the minutes and certify that they have been confirmed. The minutes of a meeting of a special committee must contain details of the proceedings and resolutions made, be clearly expressed, be self-explanatory and, in relation to resolutions recorded in the minutes, incorporate relevant reports or a summary of the relevant reports considered in the decision making process. Disclosure of confidential information A member of a special committee must comply with the provisions of section 77 of the Act in regard to the disclosure of confidential information. This means a member of a special committee must not release information that a person knows, or should reasonably know, is confidential information.


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Conflicts of interest A member of a special committee must comply with the provisions of Part 4 of the Act in regard to the disclosure of conflicts of interest and submitting primary and ordinary returns unless Council has made an exemption. Reporting A special committee must report to Council at intervals determined by the Council. A special committee must provide, in respect of each financial year, an annual report to the Chief Executive Officer containing a report of its operation during the financial year and audited financial statements for the financial year. Financial A special committee is expected to comply with sound financial management practices, including –

Preparation and adoption of an annual budget before the start of the relevant financial year;

Quarterly financial reporting to the committee showing a comparison of actual to budget for expenditure and income items; Annual financial statements prepared within one month after the end of the financial year; Annual financial statements must be adopted by the committee and sent to Council; All cheques must be signed by at least two committee members; All receipts to be banked within three working days or, if the total amount of receipts exceeds $1,000, within one day; Accurate records for all income and expenditure items capable of being audited at any time; All GST charged and paid must be recorded; Withholding Tax must be recorded in the Expenditure report; and An income and expenditure report is to be submitted monthly to the Finance Unit so that returns may be sent to the Australian Taxation Office. Procurement A special committee must comply with the Council’s Procurement Policy.


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Review The Council must review any delegations to a special committee within the period of 12 months after a general election. Council policies A special committee must observe any guidelines or policies of the City of Greater Bendigo or those that Council may adopt from time to time. Governance arrangements In appointing the special committee Council may also determine some specific governance arrangements for the way in which Council wishes the special committee to operate in addition to the requirements of the Act. These may include- Committee membership The Special Committee shall comprise a minimum of 16 representatives and be appointed by Council resolution following an expression of interest process. Composition of the Special Committee shall be at least:

14 community members;

1 City of Greater Bendigo councillor;

1 officer of the City of Greater Bendigo Committee members will be appointed for a 1, 2 or 3 year term and may renominate through expression of interest for a further term. Current members and their respective term are outlined in Schedule 1. On resignation of a Committee member, the Chief Executive Officer may fill any vacancy on the Committee through an expression of interest process.


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Schedule 1

Bendigo Maubisse Friendship Committee Membership List

Name Membership Type Term - Yrs. Term Expiry – 30 June

Cr. Jen Alden Councillor / Chair 3 2019

Barry Secombe Committee 1 2017

Heather Ridge Committee 1 2017

Deborah Blake Committee 1 2017

Ken Hubbard Committee 1 2017

George Waters Committee 2 2018

Ian Blake Committee 2 2018

John Jones Committee 2 2018

Naidene Parry Committee 2 2018

Mark Feiss Treasurer 2 2018

Jenny Feiss Committee 2 2018

Rod Flavell Committee 3 2019

Heather McNeil Secretary 3 2019

Elizabeth Durr Committee 3 2019

Mark McLoughlan Committee 3 2019

Steven Abbott Officer - City of Greater Bendigo NA NA


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5.4 JUNORTOUN COMMUNITY PLAN 2017-2021


Author Lyn Talbot, Corporate and Community Planner Responsible Bernie O’Sullivan, Strategy and Growth Director

Purpose

To advise Council of the revision of the Junortoun Community Plan and to report on the recent launch of the Community Plan as part of Australia Day celebrations at Junortoun.

Summary

The City of Greater Bendigo has supported the small towns and rural communities of the municipality to develop and implement their local community plans since development of the Greater Bendigo +25 Community Plan in 2005. There are currently 11 active small town and rural community plans in place and a further 5 community plans for urban neighbourhoods (suburbs). The plans are generally reviewed each 3 or 4 years. Communities are expected to take the lead in reviewing and updating their community plans. They are supported in this process with the provision of assistance for community engagement and community consultation, advertising, graphic design and printing. Similarly communities are expected to take the lead in implementing their community plans and they are supported to do this through access to competitive grants, capacity building and other assistance specific to the localities. In the past, each new or revised community plan has been endorsed by Council to be used as a primary document of advice regarding identified community priorities and with regards to potential funding opportunities. In 2017 Council initiated a process where members of the relevant community will present their new Community Plan at a Councillor Briefing, as a means of achieving a better exchange of information between communities and Council The first Junortoun Community Plan was completed and launched in 2015. This new plan was developed with the aim of reviewing community priorities and setting new objectives for community action, and in the process attracting new people to join in local activities.


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RECOMMENDATION

Greater Bendigo City Council resolve to:

1. Acknowledge the review, finalisation and launch of the Junortoun Community Plan 2017-2021; and

2. Endorse the principle that City of Greater Bendigo involvement in Junortoun and district be guided by the relevant priorities set out in this plan.

RESOLUTION Moved Cr Wrigglesworth, Seconded Cr Flack. That the recommendation be adopted.

CARRIED

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Policy Context

Review and renewal of the Small Town Community Plans relates to Strategy 3.7 from the Council Plan 2013-2017 (Updated 2016) which states: ‘Structured community engagement, community planning and community development programs support our residents and communities, particularly those who may experience isolation.’ This strategy is met through provision of City support for small town and neighbourhood communities to prepare, implement, evaluate and review their local Community Plans. Fostering the sustainability of rural communities is encompassed within the vision of Greater Bendigo – the world’s most liveable community is expressly stated in the aspiration for liveability in relation to: ‘A fairer and more inclusive City. A welcoming multi-cultural community where the benefits and opportunities from growth are better shared across all of urban Bendigo and its rural communities.’


Community planning provides an important form of engagement and local participation in the various communities and also a focus for potential collaboration between the communities. The plans enable a strong connection between the City of Greater Bendigo and those communities. Communities undertake a revision of their community plan when they have completed the majority of actions in their previous plan, or when the priority direction or actions are no longer relevant to the community. Plan revision also provides a range of community engagement activities that bring opportunities to revitalise interest in the community planning process and to get new community members involved.


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Report

Results from the Junortoun community survey identified 6 main themes; 1. Sense of community- the desire for a welcoming and safe community where people

are connected socially with each other 2. Community facilities – strong support for facilities for younger people, community

and commercial businesses 3. Planning and infrastructure- especially with regards to an updated fire station and

access to digital technologies 4. Forest and walking/cycling trails – the needs for facilities that connect schools and

commercial centres 5. Public transport – services providing more options are needed 6. Roads- especially road safety and speed limitations in residential and school zones Copies of the plan have been made available to interested community members. The plan is available from the Junortoun community website and all community plans are available from the City of Greater Bendigo website. The plan was launched at a community event at the Junortoun CFA shed as part of Australia Day celebrations on January 26, 2017. The event was well attended.


External Consultation: The process to develop a new Junortoun Community Plan was commenced with a meeting of the Junortoun Community Action Group and a working group developed a survey. The survey was sent to each household in Junortoun and was made available online. Results were analysed by the working group and a draft plan was circulated in hard copy and via the website. Final changes were made that incorporated community feedback. The Junortoun Community Plan 2017-2021 contains an Action Plan which details activities that will be taken in the short term (1-2 years). The action plan will be updated periodically after annual review. Internal Consultation: Staff members from relevant departments have been made aware of the goals and actions in the plan to ensure they are congruent with Council strategic directions.


The City of Greater Bendigo has continued support for the development of new community plans in the small towns and neighbourhoods and the review of these plans when appropriate. During the process of development and review the communities are provided with a range of in-kind assistance, such as document development, printing and mailing. These costs are covered in the annual Community Planning budget in the Strategy Unit.


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Resources for the implementation phase of community plans are supported by staff from the Community Partnerships team who assist with grants, funding applications and support and a range of other community development activities and celebrations. Community members undertake advocacy to Councillors, relevant staff and other agencies such as VicRoads for major initiatives in their community plans, which are supported in the usual planning and budget decision-making processes.

Attachments

1. Junortoun Community Plan 2017-2021


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5.5 GREATER BENDIGO PUBLIC SPACE PLAN - STAGE 2 VISION AND CONCEPTUAL VISION


Author Mark Stubbs, Senior Strategic Planner Responsible Bernie O’Sullivan, Director Strategy & Growth Director

Purpose

To provide an overview of the community and agency response to the draft Conceptual Vision for the Greater Bendigo Public Space Plan, to seek Council endorsement of a revised document, and authorisation to proceed to Stage 3 – the development of the draft Public Space Plan.

Summary

The draft Conceptual Vision for the Greater Bendigo Public Space Plan was released on public display for a month between mid-January and mid-February 2017. A broad range of public engagement initiatives were taken to ensure a high level of public awareness of the Conceptual Vision and to provide the opportunity for comment. The public display process evoked a significant public response, including written submissions from residents, community-based groups and agencies, interactions between project team and residents at listening posts held across the municipality, resident respondents to the online survey, and substantial activity on social media. This response is detailed in this report and in Attachment A. In parallel with the public display, presentations and discussion sessions took place with many teams within the City of Greater and with various agencies, committees and groups. All public comment received was considered as part of a review of the Conceptual Vision. The project’s Reference Group and Steering Group, as well as the Council, have provided high level input to this review. Peer review of the Conceptual Vision was also provided by the Victorian Design Review Panel of the Office of the Victorian Government Architect (see Attachment B). As a result, a number of areas for change have been identified. The details of this change are explained in this report and shown in Attachment C and agreed for change. The changes address several important and contentious issues including strategic concepts originally shown for Charing Cross and for the Bendigo Creek.


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RECOMMENDATION

Greater Bendigo City Council resolve to: 1. Endorse the Conceptual Vision for the Greater Bendigo Public Space Plan and

begin preparation of the draft Public Space Plan. 2. Provide public information to advise of this decision and to communicate the nature

of, and reason for, changes to the Conceptual Vision document. RESOLUTION Moved Cr Metcalf, Seconded Cr Alden. That the recommendation be adopted.

CARRIED

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Policy Context

Council Plan Reference: Theme 3: Presentation and vibrancy Strategy 3.1: Greater Bendigo has attractive and accessible parks, public places and streetscapes that are widely used and enable people to be healthy and active. Action 3.1.1: Complete the Greater Bendigo Public Space Plan in partnership with the Health and Wellbeing and Presentation and Assets Directorates and commence implementation. Strategy Reference: www.bendigo.vic.gov.au/publicspaceplan Priority/Importance: High priority – the 2005 Open Space Strategy is overdue to be replaced by a contemporary strategy.


Replacing the Open Space Strategy of 2005, the Greater Bendigo Public Space Plan (Public Space Plan) is being developed as a long-term strategy to guide the coordinated planning, design, use and management of the city’s public spaces in the interest of supporting the broader objective of our city’s liveability.


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The Public Space Plan has progressed to its mid-way point. Stage one, completed in August 2016, sought to provide a comprehensive understanding of the major strategic public space issues of our city. It did so through a process of wide-ranging consultation, research, analysis and documentation. The second and current stage of the project has had a very different goal – the creation of a conceptual vision for public space in Greater Bendigo, looking ahead 50 years. In October, the community and agencies were invited to contribute to the development of a conceptual vision for the city’s public space, via a 2.5-day workshop and online survey; the draft conceptual vision which emerged and was subsequently developed further and released for public comment. Previous Council Decision(s) Date(s): 14 December 2016 Update on project progress, including the development of a

Conceptual Vision and associated community engagement.

31 August 2016 Council endorsed the draft Strategic Context and Issues Report and Summary Report and resolved to release both reports for informal public comment for six weeks.

28 September 2015 Council workshop briefing to discuss and agree on the scope of the Public Space Plan.

Report

Community engagement activity A one-month public display place from mid-January and mid-February 2017 to promote and communicate the draft Conceptual Vision, and to provide the opportunity for comment. Feedback received would then be considered as part of a review of the Conceptual Vision (as discussed later in this report). The range engagement approaches used was diverse, and included both tried-and-tested, as well as new, techniques, as described in Table 1 below. The broad aim was to maximise public awareness, interaction and response. Table 1 - Summary of community engagement activity related to the public display of the draft Conceptual Vision Type of Engagement Activity

Project webpage 1,300+ page views

130 draft report downloads

Public display venues (copies of draft)

35 locations across the municipality

Listening posts 13 venues across the municipality

Over 230 participants

Online survey 56 respondents

Facebook advertising 40,000+ people reached


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457 clicks through (1%)

Community bulletins (no. 3)

1,000 printed copies distributed

150 online views

Email promotions 900+ recipients

Interactive Webpage (ThingLink)

1,400+ page views

8,100 hovers

1,300+ click throughs

Media coverage 1 media release, 2 print media articles, 2 local radio

segments

Internal presentations and discussions

12 sessions covering 12 teams (over 120 staff)

External presentations and discussions

14 sessions covering various agencies, committees and groups: -Bendigo Health -Bendigo Sustainability Group -Bike Bendigo -Coliban Water -Country Fire Authority -Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning -Department of Health and Human Services -Disability Inclusion Reference Committee -Municipal Fire Management Planning Committee -Parks Victoria -Public Transport Victoria -Remembrance Parks Central Victoria -Sports and Recreation Victoria -Sustainable Environment Advisory Committee -VicRoads

Submissions / written comments (by letter or email)

22 received

Response to the Conceptual Vision As indicated by the numbers in the preceding table, significant numbers of people, representing a range of backgrounds and interests, engaged with the public communications and information related to the Conceptual Vision. Some of this engagement led to a response which could be taken into consideration. The details of this response are in Attachment A and a summary is given in Table 2 below. Providing a gauge of overall community sentiment about the Conceptual Vision is challenging. Several broad observations are made to help provide some sense of this, as follows:

Most aspects, as broad, long term conceptual ambitions, were received positively by community- and agency-based respondents alike.

There was notably strong support for certain aspects such as the ‘Network of Corridors’.


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Concepts which relate to a specific place or location (i.e. Charing Cross and Bendigo Creek) tended to attract the most criticism, particularly the former. Though it should be noted that there was considerable positive commentary in range of forums; the listening posts especially.

Some respondents (e.g. via the survey) noted that certain aspects are unclear. This should add some element of qualification to the positive overall sentiment described.

Table 2 - Summary of response to the draft Conceptual Vision Engagement Response Summary

Internal presentations and discussions

Generally positive discussion and feedback. No obvious indications of disagreement with particular aspects.

Some questioning of the origin of the Charing Cross concept, and view this did not flow logically from stage 1.

No written comments received.

Acknowledgement of the aspirations of the plan (both in terms of strategic ambition and challenge in delivery).

External presentations and discussions

Generally positive discussion and feedback. No obvious indications of disagreement with particular aspects.

Some questioning about the origin of the Charing Cross concept, and comment that it did not follow logically from stage 1.

Written comments received in some cases (see below).

Online survey

The number of respondents was markedly lower than previous surveys for this project (430 and 1,324 respectively), possibly reflecting the additional complexity of a format which asked for a 2-step process – review information then respond.

The quality of responses in many cases is however notable.

The overall reaction was positive, with 34.7% giving strong support and a further 22.4% supportive subject to some changes.

30.6% of respondents were unsupportive. This position correlated most often with concerns about the Charing Cross concept.

Listening posts

The face-to-face characteristic of this format enabled discussion, explanation and clarification, and often led to extended conversations.

These were primarily positive, with 28% of participants indicating support.

A smaller number of participants (5.6%) took a neutral position and a further 5.6% were opposed.

Remaining participants (60.8%) sought/received a brief explanation and took information away (community bulletin).

Social media activity (Facebook)

The City’s social media promotions were far-reaching in terms of awareness, however attracted minimal written response.

A Bendigo Advertiser article attracted a large amount of


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social media activity on its’ Facebook page (around 150 comments). The response focussed almost entirely on the Charing Cross concept and was predominantly (i.e. 99%) negative.

Written submissions (letter and email)

Of the 22 submissions received, 13 were supportive overall, and a further 4 indicated support for specific aspects (i.e. Cycling-related initiatives and the Charing Cross proposal).

1 submission was unsupportive overall, and a further 4 indicated criticism of/objection to specific aspects (i.e. the Charing Cross and Bendigo Creek concepts).

Governance and Peer Advisory Steering Group Oversight of the development of the Public Space Plan is being provided by a Steering Group made up of representatives of the City of Greater Bendigo (three Councillors and four Directors), as well as of several key government and other organisations. The summary recommendations of the group are:

Observations about communications factors (i.e. language, messaging, online vs face-to-face).

Charing Cross concept should be retained, but less prominent and conveyed with more context.

Interest in potential focus for immediate action.

Invite participation of VicRoads on the Steering Group. Reference Group To support and complement both the Plan’s development, and the role of the Steering Group, a community-based Reference Group is also in place. This group brings together twelve residents from various parts of Greater Bendigo with wide-ranging interests in public space. The summary recommendations of the group are:

Clarify the vegetation character topic.

Highlight water as a strategic issue for public space.

Keep the positive approach in the document, which reflects the positivity of the Reference Group itself.

Be innovative and don’t hold back because of restrictions. Every concept is a valid concept - ask for “a leap of faith”.

Office of the Victorian Government Architect - Design Review Specialist peer advice to the project is being provided by the Victorian Design Review Panel (VRDP) of the Office of the Victorian Government Architect (OVGA). Following a presentation, discussion and review in early March, the VDRP has provided its recommendations, which are summarised below and given in full as Attachment B.


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Regarding the Conceptual Vision:

o Develop a single, clear, overall framework plan which captures the main concepts

together.

o There are too many principles – this should be more concise.

o We question whether the plan for the forest edge is manageable.

o The ‘reward’ diagram does not reflect the depth and aspiration of the work.

Regarding the Public Space Plan (to be developed) should:

o Be both specific and flexible/opportunistic.

o Carefully link the stage 1 analysis/issues to its recommendations.

o Protect and build on valued features (e.g. the forest).

o Differentiate between tangible projects (such as Bendigo Creek) and more

complex, less definable ‘single’ projects (such as the forest interface).

o Include a prioritised action plan that is achievable within available resources.

o Include a clear hierarchy of public space types.

o Identify desirable qualities for different spaces.

o Establish targets (e.g. a percentage of the population should be within a 5-minute

walk if a neighbourhood park).

o Consider revising the project timeline to avoid losing momentum.

How the draft Conceptual Vision has changed in response to community comment Community and agency feedback in all of its forms was considered as part of a process to review the Conceptual Vision. A number of aspects were consequently identified as warranting change, and collectively, are considered to demonstrate a high level of responsiveness to the bulk of feedback received. Recommended changes are described in summary in Table 3 below. A revised version of Conceptual Vision Report which incorporates the changes is included as Attachment C. Table 3 - Summary of response to the draft Conceptual Vision Identified aspect for change Response Summary Water: acknowledge the importance of this issue in the context of public space.

Additional text included under ‘Environment and Sustainability’ principle to highlight the need for focus on “efficient water resource management” (refer p.7).

European / native character mix of public realm plantings: clarify how this will be applied on the ground.

Additional text included under ‘Preserve and strengthen the European-style public realm’ concept to explain that a ‘one size fits all approach’ is not appropriate and that application of the native/introduced species mix will vary at the local level (refer p.16).

Charing Cross: retain, but reduce prominence and note qualifications. Note: discussion at Council Briefing canvassed further alternatives for approaching this.

The Charing Cross concept is now presented as one of several local, site-specific examples of how the broader concept of “Make the public realm more people-friendly” could potentially occur. Others examples shown – Bridge Street in Bendigo and Brassey Square in Eaglehawk –are concepts in existing adopted strategies.


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Supporting text in all cases highlights the potential benefits and challenges (refer p.17).

Bendigo Creek: acknowledge the significance and complexity of factors such as heritage values, access and personal safety.

Additional text included to recognise the significance of heritage and personal access and safety in progressing this concept (refer p.21).

‘The Reward’: recognition of benefits related to tourism and economic development.

Additional text included to acknowledge the “Increased potential for tourism to the City and for economic benefits due to public spaces which encourage people, activity and investment” (refer p.25).

Next steps Following Council endorsement of the Conceptual Vision, public information will be circulated to announce this decision and to communicate the nature of, and reason for, changes to the Conceptual Vision document. In particular, focus will be placed upon explaining the City’s response to the strong interest and concern which arose in relation to the Charing Cross concept. The process of creating the Public Space Plan – stage 3 – will also get underway. The strategic direction and ambitions of the Conceptual Vision will provide the foundation upon which the Plan is to be formulated. With nearly 18 months having passed since the project brief was developed, and a more in-depth understanding of public space issues and strategic opportunities, a key starting point for the third stage will be to revisit, and if necessary adjust, the intended scope of the Plan. Further engagement will also be essential to inform, shape and test the Plan. A series of parallel processes, where the right people and organisations are involved in relevant aspects of the evolving Plan, will be needed. The Plan will be generated initially as a draft for community information, review and comment, and then further reviewed and revised. Formal submissions will be invited as part of this process.

Timelines

Completion of the Greater Bendigo Public Space Plan is on target for the end of 2017; within an overall two-year timeframe. The remaining major stages of work and associated target dates are given in Table 4 below. Table 4 - Remaining work stages and milestones for the Public Space Plan

Stage Description Target completion

3 Draft Public Space Plan September 2017

4 Final Public Space Plan November 2017


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The Greater Bendigo Public Space Plan is being resourced internally and with an operational project budget of $18,000 for the 2017/18 financial year.

Attachments

A. Summary of Summary of Community Consultation Activity and Feedback, Greater Bendigo Public Space Plan, March 2017

B. Office of Victorian Government Architect, Design Review Report, Greater Bendigo Public Space Plan, March 2017.

C. Greater Bendigo Public Space Plan: A Conceptual 50 Year Vision (revised in response to community comment), March 2017.

Productivity - Reports Ordinary Meeting - 19 April 2017

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6. PRODUCTIVITY

Sustainability - Reports Ordinary Meeting - 19 April 2017

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7. SUSTAINABILITY

7.1 POTENTIAL SALE OF 85 LOMAS ROAD GOORNONG - POST COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT FEBRUARY 2017


Author Barry Maskell, Strategic Property Analyst Responsible Vicky Mason, Director, Health & Wellbeing

Summary/Purpose

85 Lomas Road, Goornong has been identified as potentially surplus.

This report documents the feedback provided by community members during public engagement and makes recommendations as to the future of the property.

RECOMMENDATION

1. That Greater Bendigo City Council resolve to sell 85 Lomas Road, Goornong subject to Section 223 of the Local Government Act 1989; and

(a) authorise public notice of its intention to sell the above property in accordance with Section 189 of the Act, and advise engaged residents;

(b) nominate three Councillors' to hear any submissions in relation to the sale of the above property;

2. If no submissions are received in relation to the proposed sale of 85 Lomas Road, Goornong that Council resolve to:

(a) Remove the Reserve status from the Title;

(b) Connect / Make Power available to the site for connection; and;

(c) The above property be sold and that the Council authorise the Chief Executive Officer to sign and seal all relevant sale documents.

RESOLUTION Moved Cr Metcalf, Seconded Cr Williams. That the recommendation be adopted.

CARRIED


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FURTHER MOTION Moved Cr Fyffe, seconded Cr Flack. That the Whipstick Ward Councillors hear any submissions in relation to the sale of the land.

CARRIED

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Policy Context

Council Plan 2013-2017 (2016-2017 Update) – Adopted 29/6/2016

Theme 5: Sustainability 5.3 Essential infrastructure is constructed, maintained and renewed to meet the needs of

current and future residents 5.3.6 Implement the Surplus Land Disposal Plan.

Community Engagement Policy (April 2016)

10 Year Financial Plan

Asset Management Plan - Buildings & Structure (June 2016)

Statutory and Discretionary Reserve Policy (November 2013)

Local Government Act 1989 (VIC)


Local Context The City of Greater Bendigo’s Building and Property Services Unit manages a portfolio of about 1,000 buildings and structures. The land and buildings are valued in excess of $400M. As part of the City’s Building Asset Management Plan, properties that may not meet the current or future needs of the City are being investigated as potentially surplus. Not all land identified as surplus needs to be sold. “The options for disposal include alternative use, rental, sale, or sale and lease-back…”1. Ongoing consultation and communication will inform which method of disposal is recommended (on a case by case basis) informed by community feedback.

1 The Asset Management Principles Part 1 1995, Victorian Department of Treasury and Finance


PAGE 95

Previous Council Decision Date: 16 December 2015: The Greater Bendigo City Council resolved to commence public

engagement to seek the view of the community in relation to the potential disposal of 85 Lomas Road, Goornong.

Report

85 Lomas Road, Goornong was identified as potentially suitable for disposal in the short term because it does not meet the City’s current or future needs. It is not subject to the Council Plan, any Strategies, Township Structure Plans, Place Based Plan or Reports. Further particulars of the subject property:

Size: 3.847Ha

Zone: Rural Living Zone and subject to a Vegetation Protection Overlay (VP02).

Use: Not used as a public space. Having initially been planted out by the local community with aspirations of creating a tree library, it is currently fenced off and maintained by way of the City’s slashing program.

Council resolved to seek the community’s views both on the property and its potential future use and possible disposal.


PAGE 96

85 Lomas Road, Goornong The following public engagement has been undertaken in relation to this property:

February 2016 - 55 owners and occupiers of the adjoining and surrounding properties along Lomas Road, Martins Road, Pethericks Road and Epsom – Barnadown Road, Goornong were written to individually and notified of Council’s wish to seek their views on the future use of the property.


PAGE 97

February 2016 - A listening post was undertaken. Naomi Fountain (Strategic Property Analyst) met with residents to seek and record their views. Other conversations were also held with residents and their views recorded.

March 2015 – A letter was sent to each respondent listing the views that were documented and providing an opportunity to amend any information that was missed or misinterpreted. No responses were received in relation to this letter.

In total, face to face and/or telephone conversations were conducted with 16 local residents. The views presented by the community are documented in the table below:

85 Lomas Road, Goornong - Community views regarding possible future use

Community Feedback Officer Response

Committee hasn't met for 15-20 years.

Had a successful planting day and

demonstration back in 1993. People

have yet to show any interest in firing

back up the committee.

Feedback noted.

Would like the reserve to maintained

or kept. It's one of the only understorey

patches left in the district and

particularly attracts birds. It is on the

edge of the aquifer / ground water

where two bodies of water meet. The

underground water system that drains

into the Campaspe. All properties to

the north of this block are bare. The

Campaspe Land Care Group have

received a grant to fence and plant out

a property at the intersection of Lomas

Road and Pethricks Road. On nearby

properties a rare blind snake and a sand

goanna have been seen. Understands

that the plants on 85 Lomas are no

good for seed harvesting (as originally

intended).

Feedback noted.

Leave it as a Reserve. There is a lot of

wildlife going up there. If the wildlife

was disturbed in may impact on grazing

on privately owned land.

Feedback noted.

Concerned that the Campaspe-Loddon

area is such a fragile environment /

ecosystem for the plants and birds. Has

fenced off part of their own property for

Land Care and it is very difficult to get

the little bushes to grow. You have to

have a lot of them/a thicket to attract

the birds and small animals. It is very

poor country. It would be a pity if it

goes.

Feedback noted.


PAGE 98



No one has done anything on the

property in the last 10 years.

Feedback noted.

The property could be used as a fire

escape route for adjoining owners on

Martins Road. Lots of kangaroos rest

there and it’s a good spot for them to

camp. Have never used it personally,

but would like it left as a reserve.

Advised resident that the property has never

been specified as a fire escape. Also advised

that in the case of fire it would be advisable

to find the safest and most expedient route of

escape, whether over roads, private or public

land.

There is not a lot of undergrowth in the

forest across Martins Road, this has

undergrowth where a lot of small birds

take refuge. It is like a refuge from the

forest. Everything else around it is

cleared.

Feedback noted.

It has the only Yellow Box left in the

district.

No records have been able to be found, so

the provenance of the trees planted on this

property are unknown.

The property has no access to water

and does not have a dam. The other 19

properties in the subdivision are part of

a water syndicate that are connected to

a Turkey’s nest dam and an annual

water entitlement. The dam has never

run dry – but is very low this year. Each

property has a water metre to measure

the water usage against their

entitlements. The water system was set

up during the initial subdivision,

including a water sheriff to ensure

adherence to entitlements.

Feedback noted. City Engineers suggest that

there is no ideal position to create a dam on

the subject property and that a bore may be

an option to provide for stock watering.

The trees and shrubs have not been

used for seed cultivation or educational

purposes.

Feedback noted.

The property provides a haven for

vermin such as foxes, rabbits and hares.

Even kangaroos take refuge here when

people are shooting them for dog meat.

Feedback noted.

The property is becoming a fire hazard

and should be sold. The money could go

to another cause, perhaps to a local

school. Lots of people are working and

don’t have time to be part of a

committee to look after the reserve.

Many of the people on the original

committees have moved away from the

area.

Feedback noted.


PAGE 99



It’s up to the Council to decide what

they want to do with it.

Feedback noted.

The trees along the south fence were

planted first and then the direct seed

planting was done on an angle to the

southern boundary.

Feedback noted.

Would it be possible to lease the land if

the Council doesn’t sell it?

If the Council decides that the property is

surplus to requirements the property likely

should not be kept.

The aerial below shows where the subject property sits in relation to surrounding forested land.

85 Lomas Road, Goornong This property is zoned appropriately and could be sold immediately as a rural living site. The following process would be required:

Proceed to formal Public Notice, consultation period and feedback opportunities in relation to the sale of the land.

If no submissions are received:

o Remove the Reserve status from the Title


Cost to remove the Reserve status would be minimal due to proposed use of in house conveyancing service.

The site will require power being made available (to facilitate a sale) and discussions with Powercor indicate that the cost of making power available is minimal.


PAGE 100

Balance of funds from any sale will go to the Public Open Space Reserve.

Conclusion

Public engagement revealed a range of opinions. There is limited support to keep the Reserve noting that the site has not been used as Public Open Space, nor as the previous community intended use (as a place of learning/tree library as the cultivating of tree seeds proved to be too difficult). A number of respondents suggested that the Council has no reason to keep the property. This property is no more than 400 metres from State owned forest that borders the western edge of Martins Road, Goornong.

Options 1. The Council could retain the property; or

2. The Council could sell the property.

Valuation

The current market value of the property has been assessed at $130,000 Incl. GST.

Leadership and Good Governance - Reports Ordinary Meeting - 19 April 2017

PAGE 101

8. LEADERSHIP AND GOOD GOVERNANCE

8.1 DELEGATION TO THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER


Author Peter Davies, Manager Executive Services Responsible Michael Smyth, Acting Director Corporate Performance Director

Purpose

The purpose of this report is to acknowledge the continuation of the current status of the Delegation to the Chief Executive Officer.

Summary

The purpose of a review after an election is to enable the new Council to have an understanding of the delegation and to provide the opportunity for Council to make any amendments for efficient and effective operation of the organisation with an appropriate level of reporting.

RECOMMENDATION

That having reviewed the Chief Executive Officer's Instrument of Delegation and having made no changes, the Council acknowledge that it will continue to have effect in its current form. RESOLUTION Moved Cr Fyffe, Seconded Cr Williams. That the recommendation be adopted.

CARRIED

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Policy Context

Council demonstrates leadership in its decisions to meet future needs and challenges.


PAGE 102


According to the Local Government Act 1989, Council must review delegations to the Chief Executive Officer within twelve (12) months of an election. This Council, like many others, has one relatively straightforward delegation to the CEO. The CEO then delegates to Directors and other staff as appropriate. Previous Council Decision(s) Date(s): 13 February 2013

Report

The previous Council last reviewed the delegation on 13 February 2013 and no changes were made to the current delegations to the Chief Executive Officer.


The delegation was provided for information and awareness as part of a briefing Councillors' held on Monday 27 February 2017 and further at a briefing on Monday 27 March, 2017. No changes have been made to the current Delegation to the CEO. It is now appropriate for Council to confirm the Instrument of Delegation.


Nil.

Attachments

Nil.


PAGE 103

INSTRUMENT OF DELEGATION TO THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

In exercise of the power conferred by section 98(1) of the Local Government Act 1989 (“Act”) the Greater Bendigo City Council (“Council”) hereby delegates the powers, duties and functions of the Council set out in the Schedule to this Instrument of Delegation to the member of the Council staff occupying, holding or acting in the position of Chief Executive Officer of the Council AND declare that 1. the Instrument of Delegated dated 22 August 2013 is revoked;

2. this Instrument of Delegation is authorised by a resolution of Council passed on 19

April 2017;

3. this delegation:

3.1 comes into force immediately the Common Seal of the Council is affixed to this Instrument of Delegation;

3.2 remains in force until Council resolves to vary or revoke it; 3.3 is subject to any conditions and limitations set out in the Schedule; and 3.4 must be exercised in accordance with any guidelines or policies

which Council from time to time adopts; and 4. the member of the Council staff occupying the position or title of or acting in the

position of Chief Executive Officer may delegate to a member of the Council staff any of the powers (other than the power of delegation conferred by section 98(3) of the Act) which this Instrument of Delegation delegates to him or her.

DATED this day of 2017 APPROVED under the COMMON SEAL of GREATER BENDIGO CITY COUNCIL in the presence of:

) ) )

Chief Executive Officer


PAGE 104

SCHEDULE The power to do anything arising out of or connected with any duty imposed, or function or power conferred, on Council by or under any Act.

Conditions and Limitations

The delegate must act in accordance with the conditions and limitations set out below. 1. The Chief Executive Officer must not appoint a person to be acting Chief Executive

Officer in her/his absence for a period of more than four weeks. 2. If it appears to the Chief Executive Officer that legal proceedings in accordance with

section 232 of the Act may -

(a) raise substantial issues of controversy in the community; (b) affect the City’s relationship with other bodies; or (c) require substantial financial commitment -

the Chief Executive Officer must not commence those proceedings unless:

(a) it appears to the Chief Executive Officer that, due to the urgency of the case, the decision cannot be referred to a meeting of Council for decision; and

(b) the Chief Executive Officer has first formally consulted with the Mayor; and (c) arrangements are put in place to report the matter to Council at the first

opportunity. 3. Awarding of contracts up to $1.5m (exclusive of GST) for one supplier, lump sum,

single engagement contracts and variations up to 30% of the original contract amount or $150,000, whichever is the lesser and $1.5m per annum (exclusive of GST) for multi-year, schedule of rates based contracts in accordance with Council Policy and any contracts awarded following a public tender process be reported to Council within two (2) meetings.

4. Acquiring of an option to purchase property for strategic municipal purposes subject

to any one option not exceeding $100,000, is subject to the Council being advised of the acquisition of any option within two (2) meetings of finalising the option acquisition.

The delegate must not determine any issue, take any action or do any act or thing: 5. if the issue, action, act or thing is an issue, action, act or thing which involves:


PAGE 105

5.1 making a local law under section 119 of the Act; 5.2 approving of, or making an adjustment to, the Council Plan under section 125

of the Act; 5.3 adopting of a budget, or revised budget, under section 130 of the Act; 5.4 adopting an annual report prepared under section 131 of the Act; 5.5 noting a declaration by a valuer pursuant to section 13DH(2) of the Valuation

of Land Act 1960; 5.6 determining, pursuant to section 37 of the Act, that an extraordinary vacancy

on Council be filled; 5.7 appointing a councillor or community delegate or representative to an external

organisation; or

6. if the issue, action, act or thing is an issue, action, act or thing which Council has previously designated as an issue, action, act or thing which must be the subject of a resolution of Council;

7. if the determining of the issue, taking of the action or doing of the act or thing would

or would be likely to involve a decision which is inconsistent with a -

7.1 policy; or 7.2 strategy -

adopted by resolution of Council (which has been expressly designated as a

"policy" or "strategy", as the case may be); 8. if the determining of the issue, the taking of the action or the doing of the act or

thing cannot be the subject of a lawful delegation, whether on account of section 98(1)(a)-(f) (inclusive) of the Act or otherwise;

9. If the determining of the issue, the taking of the action or the doing of the act or

thing is expressly required to be performed by Council; or 10. the determining of the issue, the taking of the action or the doing of the act or thing

is already the subject of an exclusive delegation to another member of the Council's staff.

The Council may by resolution instruct the delegate to determine any issue, take any action or do any act or thing that is otherwise prohibited by the limitations if it is lawful to do so.


PAGE 106

8.2 LOAN BORROWINGS


Author Travis Harling, Manager Finance Responsible Michael Smyth, Acting Director Corporate Performance Director

Purpose

The purpose of this report is to seek authorisation from Council for the Chief Executive Officer to negotiate a tender for loan borrowings, in line with Council’s adopted 2016/2017 Budget.

RECOMMENDATION

That the Greater Bendigo City Council endorse the tender for $17,000,000 loan borrowings for the 2016/17 financial year and authorise the Chief Executive Officer to:

1. negotiate the loan, 2. approve the successful tender and 3. sign the loan documentation.

RESOLUTION Moved Cr Metcalf, Seconded Cr Fyffe. That the recommendation be adopted.

CARRIED

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Policy Context

Council Plan Reference:

City of Greater Bendigo Council Plan 2013-2017 (2016/17 Update):

Theme: 1 Leadership and good governance

Strategic Objective: 1 Council demonstrates leadership in its decisions to meet future needs and challenges

Strategy 1.1 Good governance principles are used to guide strategic decision-making


PAGE 107

Council Policy Reference:

Council’s Borrowing Policy provides clear direction to management, staff and Council in relation to the treasury function, and establishes a decision framework that directs CoGB to:

Ensure that the appropriate level of funds are available at the appropriate time to support its strategic objectives.

Consider the optimum time to borrow, taking into account interest rates, construction cost inflation rates, and economic stimulus issues.

Be financially responsible and prudent in borrowing matters ensuring that all risks are managed appropriately.

Minimise its costs of borrowings.

Ensure, where possible, that the structure of the borrowing is appropriate for the nature of the assets being funded.

Consider inter-generational ‘user pays’ principles as part of determining the most appropriate way to fund activities.

Ensure Council’s funding activities are in accordance with its legislative and common law responsibilities.


The Local Government Act gives Council the power to borrow funds. The Council has previously borrowed money to meet its annual Capital Works budget, with the last borrowed funds in the 2015/16 financial year totalling $5,000,000. Council’s budgeted debt balance at 30 June 2017 is $50,377,000. As in previous years the MAV has sought expressions of interest for a 2016/17 Local Government Funding Vehicle with a number of Councils signing up to this. The Funding Vehicle is yet to reach the required $100,000,000 to enable the Funding Vehicle to go to market. At the time of the last MAV Funding Vehicle, the interest rate obtained for the Funding Vehicle was comparable to rates being offered for individual Council principal and interest loans. With this in mind, and current interest rates being at record low rates, entering the market and obtaining an individual loan is the preferred option. One favourable aspect of an individual loan is that principal and interest terms are offered and historically this has been Council’s preferred option when borrowing funds. The current MAV Funding Vehicle is interest only, with principal due at the termination of the loan in 2021. It would appear that the MAV Funding Vehicle that is currently being organised would also be interest only with principal due at termination of the loan. Previous Council Decision(s) Date(s):

Council Meeting 29/06/2016 – Adoption of 2016/17 Budget which included new borrowings totalling $17,000,000.

Report

The 2016/17 annual budget includes new loan borrowings of $17,000,000, which were approved by Council to fund the 2016/17 Capital Works program.


PAGE 108

The end of year result forecast at 31 December 2016, indicates that the original budgeted loan amount of $17,000,000 will be required for Council to meet its future commitments. The loan borrowing is within the notified amount of borrowing of $17,000,000 with the Australian Loans Council. The loan amount is also within the parameters set by Council's Loan Borrowing Policy. The Policy requires that the Debt Commitment Ratio (total loan principal and interest payments as a percentage of rate revenue) not be more than 10%. The revised loan borrowing forecasts the Debt Commitment Ratio as 4.35 % (based on a 10 year term at 3.6%). Debt repayments for this loan are included in the Council’s Strategic Resources Plan. Tenders will be called for from lending institutions for the loan borrowing. Priority/Importance:

The drawdown of the budgeted loan is a high priority, as these loan funds are included in calculating the 30 June 2017 forecast.


The tender will be publicly advertised on Saturday 22 April 2017.


Budget Allocation in the Current Financial Year: $17,000,000 Loan drawdown

Current Estimate or Tender Price: 3.6% - 4.0% Interest Rate

Any known or anticipated variance to budget: Interest rate will fluctuate from tender to tender based on each bank’s pricing model.

Projected costs for future financial years: On the basis of an interest rate of 3.6% and a 10 year term, monthly repayments of $168,903 would be required.

Any ongoing recurrent expenditure required: Annually $2,026,842 would be required for principal and interest repayments.

Conclusion

Council approve the Chief Executive Officer to negotiate a tender for loan borrowings for the 2016/17 financial year.


PAGE 109

8.3 RECORD OF ASSEMBLIES


Author Peter Davies, Manager Executive Services Responsible Craig Niemann, Chief Executive Officer Officer

Purpose

The purpose of this report is to provide the record of any assembly of Councillors, which has been held since the last Council Meeting, so that it can be recorded in the Minutes of the formal Council Meeting.

RECOMMENDATION

That Council endorse the record of assemblies of Councillors as outlined in this report. RESOLUTION Moved Cr Fyffe, Seconded Cr Williams. That the recommendations contained in the Leadership and Good Governance Report Nos. 8.3 (Record of Assemblies) and 8.4 (Contracts Awarded Under Delegation be adopted.

CARRIED

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Policy Context

Council demonstrates leadership in its decisions to meet future needs and challenges.


The Local Government Act provides a definition of an assembly of Councillors where conflicts of interest must be disclosed.


PAGE 110

A meeting will be an assembly of Councillors if it considers matters that are likely to be the subject of a Council decision, or, the exercise of a Council delegation and the meeting is: 1. A planned or scheduled meeting that includes at least half the Councillors (5) and a

member of Council staff; or 2. an advisory committee of the Council where one or more Councillors are present. The requirement for reporting provides increased transparency and the opportunity for Councillors to check the record, particularly the declarations of conflict of interest.

Report

Meeting Information

Meeting Name/Type

Councillors' Briefing

Meeting Date 27 February 2017

Matters discussed 1. Legislative Framework and Delegations 2. Briefing on Housing Strategy Implementation 3. ITLUS Implementation 4. NBN Rollout 5. NDIS 6. Marong Structure Plan 7. International visit 8. Organisation structure

Attendees/Apologies

Councillors Cr Margaret O'Rourke Cr Jennifer Alden Cr Matt Emond Cr Rod Fyffe Cr Julie Hoskin Cr James Williams Cr Yvonne Wrigglesworth Apologies: Cr George Flack Cr Andrea Metcalf

Staff/ Community Representatives

Mr Craig Niemann Mr Bernie O'Sullivan Mr Craig Lloyd Ms Kerryn Ellis Ms Vicky Mason Mr Peter Davies

Conflict of Interest disclosures

Matter No.

Councillor/officer making disclosure Councillor/officer left meeting

Nil


PAGE 111

Meeting Information

Meeting Name/Type


Meeting Date 1 March 2017

Matters discussed 1. Unpaid rates 2. Planning matters and draft Ordinary Agenda review 3. St Andrews' Housing Project 4. Instrument of Delegation for the Maubisse Friendship Committee 5. Greater Bendigo Municipal Early Years Plan 6. Restructure 7. Overview of Traffic Management 8. Road Management Plan Review 9. Time of Councillor Briefings 10. Wolstencroft Reserve 11. Overview of Waste Services Review 12. Forward Agenda 13. Presentations 14. Victoria Remembers Grant 15. National Tourism Awards

Attendees/Apologies

Councillors Cr Margaret O'Rourke Cr Jennifer Alden Cr Matt Emond Cr Rod Fyffe Cr Julie Hoskin Cr Andrea Metcalf Cr James Williams Cr Yvonne Wrigglesworth Apology: Cr George Flack




Matter No.


Nil


PAGE 112

Meeting Information

Meeting Name/Type

Community Plan and Engagement Session


Matters discussed 1. Follow-up on community engagement sessions on Community Plan

Attendees/Apologies

Councillors Cr Margaret O'Rourke Cr Jennifer Alden Cr Matt Emond Cr Rod Fyffe Cr Julie Hoskin Cr Andrea Metcalf Cr James Williams Cr Yvonne Wrigglesworth Apology: Cr George Flack


Mr Craig Niemann Mr Bernie O'Sullivan Ms Vicky Mason Mr Peter Davies Mr Trevor Budge Ms Lyn Talbot Apologies: Ms Kerryn Ellis Mr Craig Lloyd


Matter No.


Nil


PAGE 113

Meeting Information

Meeting Name/Type

Finance Committee Meeting


Matters discussed 1. Financial Management Report as at 30 December 2016 2. 2016/2017 Local Government Performance and Reporting Framework

Attendees/Apologies

Councillors Cr Margaret O'Rourke Cr Rod Fyffe Cr George Flack Cr Andrea Metcalf Cr James Williams Cr Jennifer Alden Cr Julie Hoskin Cr Matt Emond Cr Yvonne Wrigglesworth


Mr Craig Niemann Mr Bernie O'Sullivan Mr Craig Lloyd Ms Kerryn Ellis Ms Vicky Mason Mr Peter Davies Mr Travis Harling


Matter No.


Nil


PAGE 114

Meeting Information

Meeting Name/Type



Matters discussed 1. Public Space Plan 2. Organisation Health Check 3. CEO Performance Plan 4. Final Ordinary Meeting Agenda review 5. Bendigo Agricultural Show Society 6. Global Smart Cities 7. Types of plans (structure, township etc) 8. Whipstick Ward Tour

Attendees/Apologies

Councillors Cr Margaret O'Rourke Cr Jennifer Alden Cr Matt Emond Cr George Flack Cr Rod Fyffe Cr Julie Hoskin Cr Andrea Metcalf Cr James Williams Cr Yvonne Wrigglesworth




Matter No.


Nil


PAGE 115

Meeting Information

Meeting Name/Type

Heritage Advisory Committee


Matters discussed 1. Heritage Advisory Committee Terms of Reference review 2. Heritage Advisory Committee presentation to Council 2017 3. 'Heritage through the lens' photo competition 4. Planning update 5. Strategy update

Attendees/Apologies

Councillors Cr Matt Emond


Ms Emma Bryant Dr Dannielle Orr/ Ms Helen Ashby Mr Laurie Brown Dr Gary Hill Ms Kay MacGregor Dr Di Smith Mr Calum Walker Mr Darren Wright Apologies: Mr Trevor Budge Ms Megan McDougall Ms Trudy Rickard/ Mr David Bannear Ms Elaine Doling Mr Jordan Grenfell Mr Rod Spitty


Matter No.


Nil


PAGE 116

Meeting Information

Meeting Name/Type

Consultation meeting


Matters discussed Planning application DS/945/2016 8 Halter Court, JUNORTOUN 3551 2 Lot subdivision and removal of native vegetation

Attendees/Apologies

Councillors Cr George Flack


Liz Commadeur Applicant Objectors


Matter No.


Nil

Meeting Information

Meeting Name/Type



Matters discussed Planning application DS/23/2016 120-150 Sullivans Road, STRATHFIELDSAYE 3551 Staged subdivision of land (173 lots); construction of dwellings, fences and roads within the Land Subject to Inundation Overlay; removal of native vegetation (remnant patches and 3 scattered trees); removal of easement (E-1 on PS 419383 V); and creation of easements

Attendees/Apologies

Councillors Cr George Flack Cr Yvonne Wrigglesworth


Peter O'Brien Applicant Objectors


Matter No.


Nil


PAGE 117

Meeting Information

Meeting Name/Type



Matters discussed Planning application DSD/267/2016 3 O'Brien Street, QUARRY HILL 3550 5 lot subdivision with common property and construction of 5 dwellings (two storey)

Attendees/Apologies

Councillors Cr Matt Emond Cr Jennifer Alden




Matter No.


Nil

Meeting Information

Meeting Name/Type



Matters discussed Planning application DSD/722/2016 (Lot 1 LP66913) 186 Barnard Street, BENDIGO 3550 3 lot subdivision, demolition of garage & fencing, and construction of garage and 2 dwellings (2 storey)

Attendees/Apologies

Councillors Cr Andrea Metcalf




Matter No.


Nil


PAGE 118

8.4 CONTRACTS AWARDED UNDER DELEGATION


Author Lee Taig, Contract Support Administrator, Contract and Project Coordination Unit

Responsible Michael Smyth, Acting Director Corporate Performance Director

Purpose/Summary

The purpose of this report is to provide information on contracts recently awarded under delegation.

RECOMMENDATION

That the contracts awarded under delegation, as outlined in this report, be acknowledged by Council.

(refer to page 109 - recommendation adopted)

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Policy Context

Delivery of programs, projects and services that respond to community needs. Council Plan Reference: City of Greater Bendigo Council Plan 2013-2017 (2016/2017 Update): Theme: 1 Leadership and good governance Strategic Objective: 1 Council demonstrates leadership in its decisions to meet

future needs and challenges Strategy 1.1 Good governance principles are used to guide strategic

decision-making


PAGE 119

Report

Contract No Project Successful Contractor Value

(GST Excl) Delegated

Officer Date Signed

Capital Contracts

CT000303 Supply & Delivery of one (1) Low Entry Side Loading compactor

Poyser Trucks 391,154.87 Craig Lloyd 8 February 2017

CT000291 Supply & Delivery of one (1) Side Loading Compactor

Bendigo Truck Centre 387,064.85 Craig Lloyd 17 February 2017

CT000308 Strathfieldsaye Junior Football Oval Lighting

Eascom Electrical Bendigo Pty Ltd

219,700.00 Vicky Mason 17 February 2017

CT000312 Nolan & Thunder Street Roundabout Construction

Avard Civil Pty Ltd 332,360.77 Craig Lloyd 20 February 2017

CT000316 Bendigo Tennis Centre Redevelopment Stage 2

Nicholson Construction 809,388.50 Craig Niemann 21 February 2017


PAGE 120

9. URGENT BUSINESS

Nil.

10. NOTICES OF MOTION

Nil.


PAGE 121

11. COUNCILLORS' REPORTS

Cr Alden reported on her attendance at the following meetings and events:

Harmony Day

Citizenship ceremony

Opening of Kids Space at Kangaroo Flat

Meetings with Rural Community Advisory Groups

Landcare Group work

MAV Smart Urban futures

Easter in Bendigo Cr Emond reported on his attendance at the following meetings and events:

Easter Festival

Thanked staff, volunteers, community groups and Easter Festival Chair, Cr Rod Fyffe for the work over Easter

Blessing of the Dragon

Committee meetings

House of Mirrors

Visit to Gasworks

Marist Bros Facilities opening

Heritage through the Lens

Opening of Kids Space at Kangaroo Flat

Presentation night at the Mandurang Cricket Club

Bendigo Competitions Cr Flack reported on his attendance at the following meetings and events:

Opening of Dahlia and Arts Festival

Dahlia and Arts Festival procession

Eppalock Ward Tour

Easter Festival

Torchlight Procession

Committee meetings Cr Fyffe reported on his attendance at the following meetings and events:

Easter Festival

Motion of appreciation to staff

Dahlia and Arts Festival

Bendigo Senior Secondary College Anzac Service

Under-12 Basketball Championships

Queen’s Prize Shoot

Early Years Forum

Cricket Association Awards

Welcomed Hot Rods to Bendigo


PAGE 122

MOTION Moved Cr Fyffe, seconded Cr Flack. That Council acknowledge the outstanding work of staff during the 2017 Easter Festival

CARRIED Cr Wrigglesworth reported on her attendance at the following meetings and events:

Eppalock Ward Tour

Lake Eppalock Committee meeting

‘Coffee with a Councillor’ engagement session

Dudley House exhibition

Easter Festival (and issue raised of smoking in public places)

Increased number of bats Cr Hoskin reported on her attendance at the following meetings and events:

SPAN Walk

Citizenship ceremony

Kamarooka fundraiser

Bendigo Competitions

UDIA event

Bendigo Tramways Award

Goornong CFA meeting

Smart Urban Futures 2-day event

Easter Festival Advisory Board meeting

Meeting Procedures session

Bendigo Historical Society

Napier Street Upgrade meeting

Retail Doctor session

Opening of the House of Mirrors

Dragon Boats rowing team

Positive Ageing Advisory Committee

Heritage through the Lens

Anzac event at Bendigo Senior Secondary College


PAGE 123

Cr Metcalf reported on her attendance at the following meetings and events:

Waste Management

Environment Sustainability

Rural Communities Advisory Committee

SPAN Walk

Smart Urban Futures Conference

Community Plan and Budget meetings

Phoenix-FM

Retail Doctor

Blessing of the Dragon

Easter Festival


PAGE 124

12. MAYOR'S REPORT

The Mayor, Cr Margaret O'Rourke, tabled a report on her attendance at the following meetings and events: Spoke at the Intelligent Communities Bendigo Forum

Met with Victoria Police Superintendent and Inspector (Local Area Commander for

Bendigo)

Met with Traders of the Bendigo Bank Shop precinct

Attended a Roundtable discussion with Visit Victoria CEO Peter Bingeman

Spoke at the Bendigo Bold Thinking event 50th Anniversary Year

Attended the Be Bold Thinking Dinner

Participated in the Eaglehawk Dahlia & Arts Festival Gala Street Parade

Spoke at the SPAN Walk – Suicide Prevention Awareness Network

Met with Cr Chris Meadows-Taylor from Goldfields Shire Council to discuss Goldfields

Heritage

Operated out of the City of Greater Bendigo Heathcote office (afternoon)

Officiated at the Australia Citizenship Ceremony welcoming 26 new citizens to Bendigo

Spoke at the Official Blessing and Opening of the Marist College Community Centre

Attended the Disability Inclusion Reference Committee meeting

Attended the Interfaith Dinner and Forum

Welcomed attendees to the Heathcote Community Games Opening Ceremony

Welcomed attendees to the UDIA Northern Chapter Industry lunch with Keynote speaker

Jude Munro, Chair of Victoria Planning Authority

Met with resident Ted Coleman

Spoke at the Relay for Life Opening Ceremony

Attended the Bendigo Anglican Diocese Mothers Union Lady Day celebration service

Spoke at the Church of Latter Day Saints Dinner to celebrate 50th anniversary of the

construction and dedication of the current building

Spoke at the Afghan Persian New Year (Nowruz)

Spoke to St Therese’s Primary School students about Local Government and the role of

the Mayor

Spoke at the Official Opening of the Axedale Playspace also attended by the Hon. Jacinta

Allan, MP

Spoke at the Australian Geospatial-Intelligence Organisation (AGO) Women’s Day

Luncheon

Met with resident Michael McKenzie


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Attended Lunch with Consul-General in Chengdu & Delegates to discuss 'Outlook for

growth in export markets: Europe, North East Asia & South East Asia'

Attended Bendigo’s Longest Lunch at Rosalind Park

Attended the launch of Emerge Group Exhibition by Arnold Street Gallery Students

Attended the 2017 Golden Mile Race Day

Spoke at the Victorian Open Kyokushin Karate Championships held in Bendigo

Spoke at the Wayfinding Maps Launch for Run Cycle Walk & Roll the O'Keefe

Operated out of the City of Greater Bendigo Heathcote office (afternoon)

Met with representatives from the Bendigo Stadium Board

Met with VicRoads representatives for a Napier Street update

Attended Presentation by the Retail Doctor

Chaired a Retail Thought Leaders Roundtable Discussion

Spoke at the Official Opening of House of Mirrors Exhibition

Guest speaker at the Bendigo South Rotary Club

Attended the Sod Turning for commencement of works at Strathfieldsaye Early Learning

Hub with Hon. Jacinta Allan MP

Met with representatives from Greater Shepparton City Council and State Government to

discuss business/trade opportunities with China for the region

Chaired the Loddon Campaspe Council meeting

Met with resident Colin Burns

Attended the Airport Advisory Committee meeting

Attended the Eppalock Ward Tour to Redesdale, Mia Mia, Heathcote and Knowsley

Attended the Awakening of the Dragon

Participated in the Bendigo Easter Gala Parade

Met with representatives from the Bendigo Historical Society

Attended the ‘Heritage Through the Lens’ photo exhibition and competition launch at the

Bendigo Library

Participated in numerous workshops and forums

Participated in numerous radio, newspaper, television media interviews and photo

opportunities

Met with many residents, businesses and community groups regarding a wide range of

issues.

Thank you to the Deputy Mayor and those Councillors who represented me at events I was

unable to attend.


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13. CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER'S REPORT

The Chief Executive Officer, Mr Craig Niemann, tabled a report on his attendance at the following meetings and events: Attended the La Trobe University Bold Thinking Lecture Series

Attended a round table discussion with Visit Victoria CEO - Pete Bingeman

Met with Mr Adam Fennessy - Secretary - Department of Environment, Land, Water and

Planning

Attended the Loddon Mallee Waste and Resource Group networking lunch at which Ian

McBurney was guest speaker

Participated as MC at a Citizenship Ceremony at which 26 residents became Australian

Citizens

Attended the official opening and blessing of Marist College Community Centre

Introductory meeting with Mr Ernie Metcalf, recently appointed as Chief Executive Officer of

Distinctive Options who provide adult disability support services

Attended the UDIA luncheon held in Bendigo

Attended a meeting of the Southern Loddon Mallee Region CEOs

Attended a meeting of The Bendigo Trust Board

Attended the opening of the Axedale Playspace which was officially opened by Hon Jacinta

Allan

Attended the Senior Secondary College Students' Kitchen Challenge Dinner

Met with residents regarding a variety of issues

Attended a Trade Development Lunch with the Consul-General of Chengdu and delegates to

discuss outlook for growth in export markets: Europe, North East Asia and South East Asia

Attended Bendigo's Longest Lunch

Participated in regular media interviews

Attended an onsite presentation to members of Department, Environment, Land, Water and

Planning regarding the Bendigo Airport Redevelopment Project

Attended the quarterly meeting between VicRoads and City of Greater Bendigo

representatives

Met with Professor John Dewar of La Trobe University

Attended a Loddon Campaspe Regional Partnership meeting

Attended a meeting of Loddon Campaspe Councils hosted by Gannawarra Shire Council

Attended the launch of the Bendigo Football Netball League

Participated in the Eppalock Councillor Ward tour of Heathcote, Redesdale and Mia Mia

Attended a Loddon Mallee Regional Development Australia meeting

Participated in the media briefing regarding the City of Greater Bendigo 2017/18 Budget


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14. CONFIDENTIAL (SECTION 89) REPORTS

Nil.

There being no further business, the meeting closed at 8:25 pm.

Confirmed: 17 May 2017 Chair

Ordinary Meeting of Council - City of Greater Bendigo · RECOMMENDATION That the Greater Bendigo...

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