Annual Report 08 - Kentish Council

Kentish CouncilAnnual Report2008/2009

IndexMission Statement 2Profile of the Kentish Region 3Elected Representatives 4Mayor’s Message 5General Manager’s Message 8Organisational Chart 9Council Staff Structure 10Governance Program 11Corporate Services Program 16Community Development Program 29Youth Development 34Tourism Development 38Regulatory Services Program 42Planning and Building 43Health 45Food Safety/Handling 46Animal Control 48Waste and Environment Program 49Water and Sewerage Program 51Recreation and Reserves Program 56Roads and Streets Program 58Financial Report 61

Profile of the Kentish RegionPopulation (ABS-Estimated resident population at 30 June 2008) 6130Number of Electors 4413Area1187 sq kmsNumber of Valued Properties (at 1 st July 2008) 3,492Assessed Annual Value ofRateable Properties (at 1 st July 2008) $24,258,232Road Distances:- Sealed 279km- Unsealed 171km- Total 450kmNumber of Bridges 1063

Our CouncilBack Row (L – R): Cr Andrew Keddie, Cr Peter Campbell, Cr Tim Wilson, Mayor Don Thwaites, Deputy MayorJohn Deverell.Front Row (L – R): Cr Coralanne Walker, Cr Jan Rootes, Cr Annie Willock, Cr Penny Lane.Council Meeting Attendance July 15 2008 - 16 June 2009(19 meetings held during this period)CouncillorDon Thwaites(Mayor)John Deverell(Deputy Mayor)OrdinaryMeeting (OM)AttendedSpecialMeetings (SM)and AGMTotalMeetingsAttendedMeetings not Attended11 7 18 18 th November - OM Apology11 5 16Andrew Keddie 10 6 16Peter Campbell 12 7 19Penny Lane 12 7 1922 nd September – SM25 th November - SM19 th May - OM15 th July – OM18 th August – OM4 th February - SMApologyApologyApologyLeave of AbsenceLeave of AbsenceApologyAnnie Willock 12 7 19Jan Rootes 11 6 17Tim Wilson 10 6 16Coralanne Walker 11 3 1415 th July – OM17 th February - OM20 th January – OM4 th February - SM17 th February – OM4 th November – SM25 th November – SM25 th November – AGM17 th March – OM19 th May – OMLeave of AbsenceApologyLeave of AbsenceLeave of AbsenceLeave of AbsenceApologyApologyApologyApologyLeave of AbsenceCouncil meetings were generally held on the third Tuesday of each month,commencing at 7pm.Council continued its practice of holding a number of meetings at various venuesthroughout the municipality including Wilmot, Barrington, Railton and Beulah.4

Mayor’s MessageThis year got off to a great start in the community with the opening of Eagles Nest 2,the first meeting in the community to gauge the interest and support for a Men’sShed, the commencement of the Kentish Probus Club, the Wilmot Playgroup sandpitofficial opening and the graduation of the Greencorps group.The biggest change for Kentish and all Local Governments for 2008-09 was in thewater and sewerage area. Councils all over Tasmania were forced by the StateGovernment to change the way water and sewerage services were delivered. Duringthis final year of managing its own water and sewerage assets, Kentish, along withmany other Councils in Tasmania, borrowed money to complete capital works thatwould ensure the facilities being handed over were in good order, in the knowledgethat the new water corporation would take over the loan. This resulted in a very busyyear with a great deal of upgrade work for our contractors, especially regardingstormwater ingress into sewerage lines. Council made many decisions for treatmentplant water re-use, met with consultants, the Environment Protection Authority andthe affected landowner. The handover of assets and liabilities on July 1 st 2009 waswith some relief, with some of the projects planned still not completed, landacquisition for the re-use stalled, and some minor disputes regarding ownership ofunallocated stores and spares. Water and Sewerage customers will be faced with10% increases per year over the next three years. I believe this will be difficult tojustify considering the high charges already paid in Kentish for these services. OurCouncil was already covering proper service charges without subsidy from generalrates. At a meeting in Ulverstone in December we were advised that as part of thenew water body “Small Councils would be cross subsidised. Towns with populationsbelow 3000 cannot make a profit on Sewer Treatment Plants as they are too small.”This selling point seems now to be forgotten.Membership of the Cradle Coast Authority brings some unexpected benefits, onebeing the opportunity to participate in a Risk Assessment for Climate Change.Council also participated in a simplified study of energy consumption andgreenhouse gas emissions through LGAT with SED Consulting. Through the StateGovernment, we are participating in a program with Planet Footprint to calculate andmonitor our carbon footprint. This study is not just a snapshot but is ongoing whichwill allow us to review and make changes to the way we do business.Dulverton Waste Management was contracted by Cradle Coast Authority to reviewrecycling collections along the North-West Coast. As part of this, a MaterialsRecycling Facility (MRF) will be constructed at Spreyton. I am proud that Kentishwas a strong supporter of a combined recycling service from the beginning.Council’s Tourism Development Officer, Vicki Saunders, was successful in attractingthe Melbourne Cup pre-race publicity to come to Sheffield. Local horse and carriageenthusiasts arranged a parade of their beautiful finery. It was an opportunity to meetsome of the famous figures of races past and see the actual Melbourne Cup. Localresident, Angela Gardam, used the opportunity to raise funds for Tandara, withraffles and a quiz night.Kentish continues to be generous to worthy causes with ‘The Biggest Morning Tea’organised by Ann Ridgway in Sheffield and Daphne McCarthy in Railton, Lions Cluband Mountaineers Relay For Life teams, and the Victorian bushfire appeal to name afew.5

Significant staff changes at a senior level occurred during the year with GeneralManager, Risden Knightley, replacing Mark Crouch who resigned and James Rendellreplacing Corporate Services Manager, Tony Bickford, who retired. These changeshave brought about an easier communication and understanding of Council’s workand financial situation. Thanks to Devonport City Council’s Eric Groth who acted asGeneral Manager during the period between Mark’s departure and Risden’scommencement.As with water and sewerage reform the State Government has initiated a RegionalPlanning Scheme (RPS) which will partially replace our own Planning Scheme.There could be real benefits for Kentish and the whole North-West Coast if this isdone well, so we await further progress on this issue. We need to retain importantplanning decision-making that is best for our area. For example Council has beenconsulting with the Cradle Mountain community to create a Local Area Plan to guidefuture developments in this beautiful part of the world.In November, the Federal Government initiated the Australian Council of LocalGovernment (ACLG) which forms a direct link between Councils and the FederalGovernment. With some initial funding for community infrastructure, the ACLG haslong term plans to improve asset management and systems in Local Governmentacross the country and provide for direct communication between the two levels ofGovernment. Kentish welcomes this initiative wholeheartedly.In December, Council engaged Ian Plowman to create a new Strategic Plan for thenext five years. Written contributions and suggestions from the community, followedby community participation over one evening and a full weekend, gave us lots ofdirection. This was moderated and shaped by Staff and Councillors into a draft. Thecommunity had some concerns with the draft so changes were made. The finaldocument has been accepted by Council and will guide our policies and decisionmakingover the next five years.No summary of Council’s activity over the year would be complete without mention ofthe Lorinna access issue. At the September 2008 meeting Council voted to acceptthe motion that reads in part “That Council permanently close Lorinna Road.... tovehicular access once a suitable alternate access is constructed”. In the Novembermeeting, Council voted “That the Botts Road option be declared as the preferredalternative route for access into Lorinna”. The final closure of Lorinna Road tookplace on February 2nd as an emergency measure following an inspection byCouncil’s engineer. Works were mostly completed on River Road at the time ofclosure with some further works taking place since to improve the road surface andallow for passing bays. It is acknowledged that this access is a stopgap measure,with consultant engineer, Chris Martin, confident that he could deliver a new safe,short and cost effective access via Botts Road. The issue has divided the Lorinnacommunity with representations to Council both for and against a new road. Councilhad meetings with the community, affected landowners and residents, and gavemuch time and care responding to letters and phone calls about the road. The issuehas been difficult for everyone concerned, but I believe that Council is on the righttrack, that the process has been fair and will continue to be fair. Some may not like itbut Council is duty bound to make decisions for the benefit of the whole community,not small minorities.6

The future is bright for Kentish with many long standing issues being addressed aspart of our operations for 2009-10. Financially we are heeding advice from thecommunity and the Auditor-General that we should no longer run a budget operatingdeficit. We are being successful because we are:• constantly improving asset care and management systems;• taking economic development initiatives;• continuing streetscape work in Sheffield and Railton to improve safety,disabled access and amenity;• maintaining, upgrading and rebuilding infrastructure;• planning to increase resource sharing with other Councils;• fostering community partnerships with Council;• working with community organisations such as Tandara, TRAK, RADDAI,WTPA, WAAG, RWCSHS, Kentish Garden Club, KEENER, CORES, Hall andRecreation Ground Controlling Authorities, Lions, Sheffield and WilmotMuseums, and the Men’s shed, to name a few; and• backing community events such as Muralfest, Taste of North-West Tasmania,Weindorfer Memorial Service, Steamfest, Triple Top Mountain Run, andChristmas celebrations to name a few.There are still projects to be furthered in Kentish such as community gardens, bettercar and bus parking facilities, better land use both in towns and in rural areas, andthe acquisition of the Infant School land and buildings for public benefit rather thanprivate development. There is certainly no room for complacency. Council electionswill inject some new thinking and ensure that the Council is always representative ofour community.Being Mayor has been an honour and I would like to thank the community for theopportunity of being their representative. Thanks to Councillors for their support andencouragement and to Council staff for their hard work, especially Risden. Specialthanks to Bronie for her help and patience.Many thanks to my wife, Carol, for her support; for putting up with my time away fromhome; the many interruptions and stresses the position brings; and for receiving andpassing on many messages and opinions from callers. I could not be Mayor withouther full support.Don ThwaitesMAYOR7

General Manager’s MessageWhilst I only commenced as General Manager in May, the year has advanced veryquickly with much progress being made. Council farewelled its previous GeneralManager, Mark Crouch, along with its Corporate Services and Finance Manager,Tony Bickford, and welcomed James Rendell to the position.Council has had a busy year actioning key issues identified in the 2008/09 AnnualPlan. In addition to this, Local Government is continually required to change with thelandslide of legislative requirements imposed on Council by both State and FederalGovernment which has seen Kentish Council respond positively. Council has workedextremely hard implementing the new Strategic Plan and finalising the transfer ofwater and sewerage assets to the Cradle Mountain Water Authority from 1 st July2009, which included lobbying the State Government to continue to meet itscommunity service obligation regarding pensioner remissions.We have continued to develop our Asset Management Systems and CapitalInvestment Plan. A number of significant gaps have been identified in our majorinfrastructure which will require a number of studies in the coming years to determinecosts associated with rectifying the problems.On a brighter note, Council’s improvement in its risk management has seen ourOutdoor Staff work 1336 hours without loss of time. It is great to see sound riskmanagement practices becoming part of the culture of this organisation which in turnhas resulted in an increase in our risk assessment score.Continuing on infrastructure, Councillors have made tremendous progress inproviding a positive direction in solving the long outstanding issue of access into theLorinna community. With the construction of an alternative route, a major boost toaccess the Lorinna region will be enjoyed by all Kentish residents through a saferroad.The achievements of the Council could have not been done without its excellentemployees. Staff members work diligently in implementing and delivering services toour residents and implementing works programs on community assets. I thank themfor their efforts and express my appreciation for their enthusiasm and dedication in afrequently challenging environment.Risden KnightleyGENERAL MANAGER8

Organisational ChartKENTISH COMMUNITY AND STAKEHOLDERSKENTISH COUNCILMayor Cr P Campbell Cr C WalkerDon ThwaitesCr A KeddieCr A WillockDeputy MayorJohn Deverell Cr P Lane Cr T WilsonCr J RootesGENERAL MANAGERCorporate Services andGovernanceFinance and AdministrationRatingDebtors and CreditorsPayrollPurchasingInsuranceProperty ManagementInformation TechnologyOffice and ChamberStrategic & Corporate PlanningPolicy and Management ReviewElected MembersExecutive SupportCouncil ElectionsCommunity Developmentand ServicesCommunity ActivitiesCommunity DevelopmentTourism & Economic DevelopmentYouth DevelopmentSES OperationsChild Care ServicesCultural Events & FestivalsRegulatory and TechnicalServicesBuilding ControlEnvironmental/Public HealthPlaning ServicesAnimal ControlRoadsWorksWorks DepotPrivate WorksWaste Management- Household Collections- Waste Transfer StationsWater and Sewerage- Kentish Water- Railton Sewerage- Sheffield Sewerage- Cradle Valley SewerageParks & ReservesCouncil BuildingsSports FieldsTownship Maintenance9

Staff StructureGeneral ManagerRisden KnightleyGovernanceBronie FurleyEconomic Development OfficerCatherine StarkCorporate Services &Finance ManagerJames RendellWorks ManagerRon AitkenAsset and InfrastructureManagerRobert TaylorCommunityDevelopment ManagerDarrin CunninghamFinance Payroll Officer(0.8)Jill JordanFinance Officer ExpenditureMichele DiproseFinance Officer RevenueJodi FreemanIT&T OfficerBrian StarkRoads, Streets, & Bridges,Horticulture & TownshipMaintenanceRobin HicksRod MarshallKen MitchellAdrian SaundersMax SaundersHelmut KursaweNigel SpillanePatrick FosterPhillip GerkeJyi MartinBrian CookeWater & SewerageT & J Coates Water Management(Contractor)Technical OfficerCarolyn RimmerRegulatory ServicesCoordinatorRobyn BarwickRegulatory ServicesAdministration OfficerIsabelle Zink-RyallLand Use PlannerTCG Planning(Contractor)Technical OfficerIan HydeAnimal ControlNorth West Animal Pest Control(Contractor)Environmental & Health Officer(0.4)Georgina CrantockRural OfficerCommunity DevelopmentSupport OfficerAleasha GossTourism Development OfficerVicki SaundersSenior Officer Youth andCommunity DevelopmentAndrew JewellYouth and Community ProjectOfficerChris ClarkVisitor Information CentreCoordinatorSharon JewellVisitor Information CentreSupport Officer(0.3)Geneen DuffMargaret Nicholson(0.2)Isabelle Zink-RyallJason Schultz10

Governance ProgramAIM:To provide the ratepayers and residents of the Kentish municipality witheffective representation at local, regional and state level.To determine policy and all issues affecting the operation of Council andthe impact it has on the wider Kentish community.KEY OBJECTIVES:• To be consistent, fair and transparent in Council decision making.• Maintain and monitor Council’s Partnership Agreement with the StateGovernment.• Look to enter into partnership agreements with other organisations whereappropriate for the delivery of relevant and cost effective services.• Strive to ensure that the ratepayers’ strong desire for a clean local identityfor Kentish continues to be realised.• Provide clean and effective community leadership and to be strongadvocates for the community’s needs and aspirations.• Systematically measure and monitor progress against goals set andagreed within the Strategic Plan 2005-2010 and the Five-Year FinancialModel 2005-2010.• Value our staff.• Ensure Kentish remains a vibrant, diverse financially sustainablemunicipality.Strategies the Council will use during the year to achieve the objectivesabove are:• Act with probity and diligence and to exercise Councillor and managerroles.• Seek to improve the image of Council and its communication with itsratepayers and stakeholders.• Promote the municipality at every opportunity.• Adopt and foster practices that recognise Council’s role in the pursuit ofsafe working practices and the minimisation of risk to staff and to thecommunity at large.• Seek to strengthen Council’s overall sustainability.11

ActivitiesMaintain and foster continuedprofessional development by electedmembersAttendance rate of elected members atCouncil meetingsPerformanceCouncil Forums were conducted on amonthly basis.Presentations relating to specific topicswere delivered throughout the year.The Local Government Association ofTasmania offered several opportunitiesfor Councillor development which weretaken up by a number of electedmembers.There was a 90% overall attendance atmonthly Council Meetings and SpecialMeetings of Council.Councillor attendance at CouncilMeetingsCouncillor attendance at widerrepresentative forums and meetings ofother bodiesAlong with other key corporatedocuments, produce a readable andinformative Council Annual Report3 monthly Council Meetings wereattended by all Councillors, 4 meetingswere attended by 8 of the 9 Councillorsand a further 2 meetings were attendedby 7 of the 9 Councillors.Each elected member serves on at leastone Council committee, attendsmeetings and participates in businessdecisions.Annual Report 2008-2009 and other keycorporate documents including theStrategic Plan 2009-2014, Annual Planand Estimates 2009-2010 wereproduced and published.Coordinate and facilitate electedmember programs and distribution ofmaterial in a timely manner and withinestablished timeframes forconsideration by elected membersPrograms were facilitated and materialdistributed to Councillors withinestablished timeframes.12

SPECIAL COMMITTEES ANDCONTROLLING AUTHORITIESMEMBERSHIPSection 29 Controlling Authorities of CouncilSheffield Recreation Ground Controlling Authority(Established March 1999)Cr Keddie, Cr Wilson (proxy)Sheffield Football Club–2, Sheffield Cricket Club–2,Independent-2Wilmot Recreation Ground Controlling Authority(Established June 2005)Cr Rootes, Cr Thwaites (proxy)2 members each: Wilmot Football Club, Cricket Cluband Wilmot Youth GroupRailton Recreation Ground Controlling Authority(Established November 2006)Cr Campbell, Cr Lane (proxy)8 Railton/Latrobe Football Club members, 2 communitymembersKentish Museum Controlling Authority(Established November 2006)Cr Keddie, Cr Wilson (proxy)6 members of the publicTas Regional Arts – Kentish Branch – ControllingAuthority(Established November 2006)Cr Willock, Cr Walker (proxy)8 members of the publicBeulah Hall Controlling Authority(Established November 2006)Cr Thwaites, Cr Willock (proxy)9 members of the publicClaude Road Hall Controlling Authority(Established November 2006)Cr Rootes, Cr Willock (proxy)7 members of the publicKings Hall Controlling Authority(Established November 2006)Cr Campbell, Cr Lane (proxy)2 members of the publicBarrington Hall Controlling Authority(Established November 2006)Cr Lane15 members of the publicWilmot Hall Controlling Authority(Established November 2006)Cr Keddie, Cr Wilson (proxy)13 members of the publicGreen Hall Controlling Authority(Established August 2007)Cr Thwaites, Cr Deverell2 members of each: Volleyball Group, Railton PrimarySchool, Kentish Youth Council, Kentish Health Serviceand community13

SPECIAL COMMITTEES ANDCONTROLLING AUTHORITIESMEMBERSHIPSection 24 Special Committees of CouncilKentish Council Economic Development and TourismCommitteeSuspended (28/04/2009) for a six month periodKentish OH&S and Risk Management CommitteeCr Thwaites, Cr Campbell (proxy)Corporate Services and Finance Manager (Chair), Assets andInfrastructure Manager, Risk Management Coordinator, WorksSupervisor, Other personnel, seconded as requiredLorinna Cemetery Special CommitteeCr Willock16 members of the Lorinna communityKentish Youth Council – KYC StartKing George V Park Special CommitteeCr WillockAppointed members of the publicCr LaneCommunity Development Manager, Tourism DevelopmentOfficerMembers from 8 community groupsSection 30 JOINT AUTHORITIES OF COUNCILDulverton Regional Waste Management AuthorityOther Members: Councils of Devonport, Latrobe, CentralCoastCr Thwaites and Cr Deverell, Cr Wilson (proxy)Cradle Coast AuthorityOther Members: Councils of King Island, Burnie, Latrobe,Devonport, Waratah Wynyard, Central Coast, CircularHead, West CoastCr Thwaites, General Manager, Cr Deverell (proxy)Cradle Coast WaterOther Members: Councils of Devonport, Central Coast,Circular Head, Latrobe and Waratah WynyardCr Deverell, Cr Thwaites (proxy)14

OTHER BODIES (non Council) ON WHICH COUNCIL IS REPRESENTEDState Emergency Service – Mersey EMGCr ThwaitesManager of Technical ServicesTandara Lodge Board of ManagementCrs Wilson and DeverellCement Australia Community Liaison GroupCr LaneCommunity Development ManagerBarrington and Roland Fire Management GroupCr ThwaitesKentish Road Safety GroupCr Thwaites and DeverellMt Roland Rivercare Catchment IncCr Wilson, Cr Deverell (proxy)Mersey Natural Resource ManagementCr Willock, Cr Wilson (proxy)North West Action for YouthYouth Development OfficerSheffield Inc (Murals, Tourism and Commerce)Cr KeddieSheffield Mural Fest (TRAK)Cr RootesLocal Government Association of Tasmania (LGAT)Cr Thwaites, General Manager, Cr Deverell(proxy)Wilmot Tourist and Progress AssociationCr Lane15

Corporate Service ProgramAIM: To provide a range of cost effective financial and administrative services toratepayers, residents and the public in general.To develop and implement policies and procedures within a corporatestructure that deliver effective and efficient management and control.To contribute to the Strategic Plan vision for “a financially healthy municipalitywhich will enable Council to use its financial resources to the greatest benefitof all members of the Kentish community”.KEY OBJECTIVES:• The generation of a Budget-based Operational Plan which reflects the visionof the Strategic Plan covering the current financial year and projects forwardfor five years.• The ongoing review, maintenance and upgrade of financial and managementsystems to ensure the level of service outlined in the Budget and Annual Planis delivered to ratepayers and other stakeholders.• The continued monitoring and refinement of the financial accounting andreporting system.• Implementation of enhanced financial and management reportingarrangements that ensure Councillors and managers are taking decisionsbased on accurate and timely accounting information.• The investigation of financial modeling and other techniques to confirm thatstrategies adopted are contributing to the long term financial sustainability ofthe Council.• The continuing development and maintenance of the electronic recordsmanagement system, ensuring the benefits continue to be realised.• The provision of polite and friendly service to ratepayers and the public,ensuring that queries are dealt with promptly and sensitively and that Councilpolicy and associated decisions are communicated to ratepayers and thepublic clearly and courteously.• Compliance with all legislative and regulatory requirements concerning theday to day operations of Council.16

PERFORMANCE TARGETS and ACHIEVEMENTS:ActivitiesCompletion of the Annual FinancialStatements by September 30 th 2009PerformanceFinancial Statements completed bySeptember 30 th 2009.Preparation for smooth transition ofwater and sewerage operations tothe new authority on 1 st July 2009Due diligence completed by externalparty and agreement of transitionorders including completion balancesheet.Ongoing upgrading of informationtechnology assets and processesin accordance with the IT StrategyPlanDesktop equipment upgraded andreplaced in line with the long termreplacement program. Server upgraderequirements under review for deliveryin 2009/10.Ongoing training and skills updateon electronic records managementsystem and other computerisedsystemsUpgrade work and associated trainingcompleted during the year.Provision of timely monthlyfinancial reports for Councilconsideration and weekly reportsfor review by managementFinancial reports produced andcirculated with Council MeetingAgenda on a monthly basis and tomanagers fortnightly. Both reportsuites are being continually enhanced.Reduction in outstanding rates atJune 30 th 2009 by 10% over thebalance at June 30 th 2008Outstanding rates have decreased by24% compared to the balanceoutstanding at June 30 th 2008.Completion of the Annual Report byOctober 31 st 2009Report completed by mid November2009 due to delays associated with theaudit process.Adoption of the Annual Budget byJune 15 th 2009Annual Budget adopted July 1 st 2009.Setting of rates for 2009-2010 yearby June 15 th 2009Rates set July 1 st 2009.17

PERSONNEL INFORMATION:Number of full time equivalent positions (EFT) 32REMUNERATION LEVELS – SENIOR STAFFRangeNo.$60,000 - $80,000 1$80,000 – $100,000 2$100,000 - $120,000 1COUNCILLOR ALLOWANCE AND EXPENSES STATEMENTCouncillor Allowances $90,406Councillor Expenses $22,875OPERATING STATEMENT 2008/09Revenue for the year was $10.6m being 15% higher when compared to the budget of$9.2m, mainly due to the following:-• Prepayment of 2009/10 Financial Assistance & Untied Roads Grants of$520k, which was received in late June 2009 but had to be reflected asOperating revenue in the 2008/09 year.• Interest earned on invested funds being higher than budgeted by some $30k.• Reimbursement of costs and compensation in respect of the SheffieldSewerage treatment plant $300k.• Contribution of road asset from Central Coast of $473k which was fundedfrom Federal Government grant for joint purposes.Expenditure for the year was $8.1m being 7% lower when compared to the budget of$8.9m, mainly due to the following:-• Employee costs exceeding budget by $70k or 0.3% mainly due to theincrease in employee provisions for Long Service leave and annual leave.• Materials and contracts being favourable to budget by $590k or 16%predominantly due to:-o Repairs & Maintenance to Roads, Parks & Gardens was favourable tobudget by $219k, due to additional works being undertaken in Capitalprojects.o Consultancies being $40k favourable to budget, mainly due torevaluation exercise in rate properties valuations.• Depreciation expense being $150k or 6% due to lower depreciation costs inrespect of water and sewerage assets.18

• Borrowing costs being $64k or 35% favourable to budget based on the needto borrow later than expected due to the delay of some capital projects.• Utilities costs (Electricity, Telephone and communication and land and waterrates) being $46k or 12% higher than budget.• Loss on retirement and disposal of assets being $115k favourable to budget.This resulted in an operating surplus of $2.55m compared to budget of $0.4m,summaries are provided below. When capital and abnormal items are excluded itshows that the Council has come from an operating deficit in 2007/08 of some $1mto a modest operating surplus of almost $220k in 2008/09.This represents a significant turnaround in financial management and is indicative ofa concerted effort to operate in a surplus position in line with the objective of financialsustainability.2008/09 Operating Statement (Summary)Actual2008/09($000's)Budget2008/09($000's)Actual2007/08($000's)Operating Income 10,602 9,234 8,806Expenses (Excl. Depreciation) 5,695 6,346 5,934Operating Result excluding Depreciation 4,907 2,888 2,872Depreciation expense 2,360 2,515 2,565Operating Surplus/(Deficit) 2,547 373 307Operating Income 10,602 9,234 8,806Prepaid FAGS & Untied Roads Grants & abnormals 936 - 100Operating Income excl. prepaid Operating Grants 9,666 9,234 8,706Contribution of Assets 473 - 632Capital Grants associated with Capital Projects 919 928 663Operating Income excl. 8,274 8,306 7,411Operating expenses excl. Depreciation 5,695 6,346 5,934Operating Result excl. Depreciation expense 2,579 1,960 1,477Depreciation expense 2,360 2,515 2,565Operating Surplus/(Deficit) 219 (555) (1,088)19

SOURCES OF REVENUE 2008/09INCOME - $10,602,000Operating Revenue by Type 2008/09Share ofAssociate'sProfit/Loss1%Contribution ofAssets5%Other Income9%Profit on Disposal ofAssets1%Interest2%Rates & Charges44%User Charges3%Reimbursements2%Government Grants& Contributions33%Operating Revenue by Program 2008/09Water & Sewerage17%External Agencies2%CommunityDevelopment &Services3%Waste Management3%Corporate43%Roads, Streets,Bridges &AssociatedInfrastructure28%Regulatory2%Recreation &Reserves2%20

SOURCES OF EXPENDITURE 2008/09EXPENDITURE - $8,055,000Operating Expenses by Type 2008/09Utilities5%Loss onRetirement/Disposalof Assets0%Other Expenses2%GovernmentContributions2%Borrowing Costs2% Employee Costs24%Depreciation29%Materials &Contracts36%Operating Expenses by Program 2008/09Water & Sewerage11%Waste Management4%External Agencies2%Governance4%CommunityDevelopment &Services12%Corporate13%Roads, Streets,Bridges &AssociatedInfrastructure40%Regulatory4%Recreation &Reserves10%21

CAPITAL EXPENDITURE: 2008/09Capital expenditure for the year was $3.95m compared to budget of $4.03mrepresenting a 98% achievement to budget. A breakdown of the main items by Assettype is provided below:-• Buildings were $48k compared to budget of $208k being favourable by$160k, bearing in mind that almost $180k was due to RLCIP (Regional &Local Infrastructure Program) from the Federal Government. This has beencarried over into the 20009/10 budget and these funds are due for acquittal atthe completion of the program sometime in the latter quarter of the calendaryear.• Computers and office equipment: $29k compared to budget of $31k.• Furniture and fittings: $5k compared to budget of $15k.• Infrastructure other: $730k compared to budget of $883k resulting in afavourable variance of $150k or 18%, most of this is in respect of theSheffield and Railton streetscapes where the savings have been included ascarryover into the 2009/10 year.• Infrastructure roads: $1.640m compared to budget of $1.228m, resulting in anunfavourable result to budget of $412k mainly due to a contribution fromCentral Coast Council in respect of a joint federal funded project in respect ofSpellmans road to the value of $473k.• Bridges: $189k compared to budget of $200k resulting in a favourablevariance of $11k or 5%.• Infrastructure water and sewerage: $735k compared to budget of $1.04mresulting in a favourable variance of $300k or 24%. The majority of theunspent funds ($265k) relates to a $1m loan which will be transferred to thenewly formed water authority whereby it will take over all water and sewerageassets and liabilities (including the outstanding loans of approximately $1.3m)on 1 st July 2009.• Plant and vehicles: $425k compared to budget of $411k resulting in anunfavourable variance of $14k or 3%, mainly due to the purchase of a roadsafety speed alert trailer for $19k (budgeted in operating expenses).This is represented in the graph depicted below:22

CAPITAL EXPENDITURE by ASSET TYPE 2008/09CAPITAL EXPENDITURE - $3,951,000Capital Expenditure by Asset Type 2008/09Stormwater0%Land0%Furniture & Fittings1%Buildings1%Land Improvements24%Plant13%Bridges4%Water8%Roads & Streets39% Sewerage10%23

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION 2008/09Cash and Cash Equivalents $4.9mCash at bank $ 247,000Investments in term deposits at call $4,508,000Amounts held in trust $ 83,000Special Committee Bank Accounts $ 63,500Cash holdings since 2003/04 are as follows:-Cash holdings$5,000,000$4,500,000$4,000,000$3,500,000$3,000,000$2,500,000$2,000,000$1,500,0002003/04 2004/05 2005/06 2006/07 2007/08 2008/09Cash and investments of $4.9m in 2008/09 have increased by almost $1.75m fromthe previous year.This is mainly due to the following:-Prepaid FAG & untied roads grants from Federal Government $520kUnexpended loan proceeds – Roads, Water & Sewerage $550kUnexpended RLCIP grant $200kWater & sewerage court compensation $640k24

The Statement of financial position (balance sheet) is summarized below:-Debt HoldingsCouncil’s debt stands at $3.2million compared to 2.3 million the previous year, mainlydue to the borrowing of $1 million for water and sewerage capital expenditure, whichthe assets and debt liability will transfer to Cradle Mountain Water on 1 st July 2009.AssetsCurrent Assets(000’s)Cash and investments $ 4,903Trade debtors $ 47Other $ 193 $ 5,143Non Current AssetsProperty, Plant & Equipment $67,076Investment in Associates $ 2,353 $69,429TOTAL ASSETS $74,572Current LiabilitiesTrade creditors $ 447Financial liabilities (loans) $ 1,044Provisions for staffing entitlements $ 157Other including accrued expenses $ 239 $ 1,887Non Current LiabilitiesFinancial liabilities (loans) $ 2,175Provisions for staffing entitlements $ 95 $ 2,270TOTAL LIABILITIES $ 4,157EquityRetained Earnings $27,534Non cash Reserves – Asset Revaluations $42,606Other specific Reserves $ 275 $70,41525

COMPARISON TO FINANCIAL PLANThe financial strategy model developed for Council was undertaken in 2000/01 andrevised in 2005/-06. Comparisons to the strategy models are as follows:-Financial Strategy Progress - Cash$6,000,000$5,000,000$4,000,000$3,000,000ActualPlan$2,000,000$1,000,000$02001/02 2002/03 2003/04 2004/05 2005/06 2006/07 2007/08 2008/09The cash and investments holding at the end of the financial year was $4.9m,significantly higher than the strategy projection of $3m.Financial Strategy Progress - Equity$80,000,000$70,000,000$60,000,000$50,000,000$40,000,000ActualPlan$30,000,000$20,000,000$10,000,000$02001/02 2002/03 2003/04 2004/05 2005/06 2006/07 2007/08 2008/09The equity (net assets) of Council equated to $70m, higher than the financial plan of$60m.26

Financial Strategy Progress - Income120000001000000080000006000000ActualPlan4000000200000002001/02 2002/03 2003/04 2004/05 2005/06 2006/07 2007/08 2008/09Income totalled $10.6m for the financial year 2008/09, considerably higher than thefinancial plan estimate of $8m by some $2.6m.Financial Strategy Progress - Expenditure$9,000,000$8,000,000$7,000,000$6,000,000$5,000,000$4,000,000ActualPlan$3,000,000$2,000,000$1,000,000$02001/02 2002/03 2003/04 2004/05 2005/06 2006/07 2007/08 2008/09Expenditure for the financial year was $8.05m, slightly less than the financial planestimate of $8.1m.27

Financial Strategy Progress - Surplus/(Deficit)30000002500000200000015000001000000ActualPlan50000002001/02 2002/03 2003/04 2004/05 2005/06 2006/07 2007/08 2008/09-500000The surplus for the year 2008/09 was $2.55m compared to a projected deficit of $41kin the financial plan estimates.The graphs depicted above indicate that Kentish Council is performing, in financialterms, better than previously expected.28

Community Development ProgramAIM:To focus on activities and services relating to the development ofcommunities within Kentish and support key programs within thecommunity.Community Development and Services describe and detail how KentishCouncil fosters and grows the areas of tourism and businessdevelopment, youth wellbeing, community social sustainability, and agedcare development.KEY OBJECTIVES:• Enhance public perception and recognition of the Kentish municipality asa premier, exciting and enticing destination.• Offer a wide range of unique experiences and events.• Encourage economic and tourism growth.• Promote a healthy and active community.• Give a voice to the youth of Kentish.Strategies the Council will use during the year to achieve the objectivesabove are:• Provide a well-informed and comprehensive visitor information servicewhich facilitates positive outcomes for visitors and prospective residents.• Establish and support harmonious and productive relationships withexisting business, with increasing opportunities for business expansion.• Support the provision of a range of health practitioners and services withinthe municipality, catering for infants through to the aged.• Recognise and encourage young people to positively engage in thecommunity as valued contributors to the Kentish experience.29

COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENTPERFORMANCE TARGETS and ACHIEVEMENTS:ActivitiesPerformanceChild Care ActivitiesProvide ongoing maintenanceCouncil extended grassed playing areafor the Railton Rainbow Playcentre.Community ActivitiesProvide grant funding to variouscommunity groupsCommunity grants were allocated (referto Grants and Benefits).Provide funding to run variouscommunity activitiesCommunity grants were allocated (referto Grants and Benefits).Support the Kentish SES operationsGrant of $10,500 provided.Implement the Lake BarringtonManagement PlanThe State Government’s Sport andRecreation and Economic DevelopmentDepartments took over the program.The Lake Barrington Sport andRecreation Management Frameworkwas completed and communityconsultation was undertaken howeverthe final report is yet to be released bythe State Government.30

COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES:Council conducted, contributed or participated in several community eventsthroughout the year:• Anzac Day Services (books presented at Wilmot, Railton and Sheffieldcenotaphs)• Clean Up Australia Day 2008• Various Australian Citizenship Ceremonies• Christmas Parade in Sheffield• Australia Day Breakfast and Volunteer Awards• National Tree DayAll functions were well supported by the community.Australia Day ActivitiesKentish Australia Day Citizen of the Year was awarded to Len Broekman.Kentish Australia Day Young Citizen of the Year was awarded to Trent Douce.Kentish Event of the Year was awarded to the Global Mural Fest and Conference2008.GRANTS AND BENEFITS:Under Section 77 of the Local Government Act 1993, details of grants and benefitsmade by the Council during the year are as follows:Community GrantsOrganisationGrant Amount($)PurposeTasmanian Regional Arts - Kentish 434 Purchase easelsWilmot Online Access Centre 236 Purchase chairsKentish Childcare Centre 1,690 Purchase and erect sunshadeKentish Rodeo Association 2,272 Lighting for the groundsKentish Probus 396 Purchase portable sound systemSheffield Bowls Club 1,136 Installation of shade clothWilmot Area Action Group 1,500 Public Liability for Wilmot MarketWilmot Area Action Group 400 Wilmot Market signRailton and Districts DevelopmentAssociation1,114 Hand Held Spot Welder31

Council received and granted specific funding requests to the followingorganisations:Organisation Grant Amount PurposeRailton Rainbow Playcentre 1,000Shelving, vacuum cleaner andmicrowaveKentish Rodeo Association 2,500 New arena surfaceKentish Childcare Centre $4,250 Exterior paintingRailton Bowls Club 5,000Renew concrete path aroundbowling greenKentish Polocrosse Association 1,000 FencingClaude Road Hall ControllingAuthority1,700 External paintingLorinna Residents and Ratepayers1,500Replace community hall waterAssociationMt Roland Rivercare CatchmentInc.5,000Tasmanian Regional Arts -Kentish 2,250Wilmot Tourist and ProgressAssociationWilmot Tourist and ProgressAssociationtankBuild recreation area at BryantBridgeConnect water and ventilaterear room500 Line picnic shelter2,000 Repair and paint museum roofCommunity EventsLions Club - Triple Top Mountain Race 1,000Junior Cattle Handlers Show of Tasmania 1,000Kentish Axeman’s Club - Gowrie Park Wood Chopping Carnival 250Kentish Rodeo Association - Gowrie Park Rodeo 454Kentish Endurance Riders Inc - Kentish Endurance Ride 227Redwater Creek Steam and Heritage Society - Steamfest 1,363Mural Fest Inc - Annual Mural Fest Event 10,000Kentish Garden Club Inc - Sheffield Daffodil and Spring FlowerShowMersey Valley Devonport Cycling Club - Senior 3 Day Tourand Under 19 National Road Series Race$5001,500Ten days on the Island - 10 days on the Island Event 50032

DonationsInstitute of Regional Development - Cradle Coast YoungProfessionals NetworkKentish Garden Club - Leukemia Foundation fundraising event 90Mersey Hospital Chaplaincy Services - Assistance with operatingserviceKentish Community Men's Shed - BBQ to run an awareness day 45Sheffield School - Mayors Prize Sheffield School Awards 2008 90Tandara Lodge - Get Walking Day event 2008 90Sheffield Junior Cattle Handlers - 2008 Donation Presentation Night 100Gateway Church - Bonanza Night post Christmas Parade 136Wilmot Primary School - School Presentations 90Railton Primary School - School Presentations 90Men’s Group the Movie screening 90State Representation Tasmanian Polocrosse Team 90State Representation Tasmanian Polocrosse Team 90State Representation at Tasmanian National Dressage Team 100$18190Rotary Club of Devonport North Inc. - Schools Driver AwarenessProgram 2009272State Representation to National Pony Club Championships 100Kentish Senior Citizens - Bus trip 200Community Organisations, Halls and Recreation FacilitiesCouncil provided an annual financial grant to the following Committees:$Sheffield Recreation Ground Controlling Authority 10,000Kentish SES Unit 10,500Kentish Museum Trust Controlling Authority 6,750Beulah Hall Controlling Authority 1,500Wilmot Hall Controlling Authority 1,500Railton Kings Hall Controlling Authority 1,500Claude Road Hall Controlling Authority 1,500Barrington Hall Controlling Authority 1,500Tasmanian Regional Arts – Kentish Controlling Authority 1,50033

YOUTH DEVELOPMENTPERFORMANCE TARGETS and ACHIEVEMENTS:ActivitiesImplement leadership development andmentor training for young peoplePerformanceThree leadership programs wereinitiated and 2 additional trainingmechanisms implemented.Several young volunteers and upcomingyoung leaders participated ina range of activities geared towardyouth leadership including;Assisted designing and deliveryof personal development andmentoring programs ‘Way of theEagle’ and ‘Dreamcasters‘.‘Rock and Water’ Trainingprovided through the GadakuInstitute; – This training teachesyoung leaders how tocommunicate positive lifeprinciples to adolescents andteenagers through an interactiveand physical program. Primarilythe program empowers youngpeople with action and responsetechniques to combat bullyingand intimidation at school andhow to make positive choices.Inclusion and participation withregional peak bodies includingNorth-West Action for Youth(NWAY) and Mersey PoliceCommunity Youth Clubs (PCYC).Training in CORES suicideintervention techniques.Extended participation on avariety of committees.The opportunity to lead andassist the design andimplementation of a variety ofyouth programs.34

ActivitiesExpand Youth Volunteer NetworkPerformanceGrowth in the volunteer network has ledto 6 new volunteers joining Council tosupport youth activities and initiatives.This includes involvement with regularprograms and also selected events suchas National Youth Week.Implement Driver Mentor ProgramPerformance Target: First young personto have started the program by June2009.Performance Against Target:Funding obtained and measures tocommence program in place.The driver mentor program hasprogressed with Council obtaining$38,983 in external funding from theMotor Accidents Insurance Board (MAIB)to purchase a vehicle and engage acoordinator for the program. Over thecoming year the program will commencewith participants and mentors recruitedfrom within the community. The startdate for the project has been delayeddue to extensive planning anddevelopment required to ensure theproject comes to fruition. Significant preplanningand funding identification willassist the sustainability of the project inthe long term.35

ActivitiesTo give youth a voice in thecommunityPerformanceAn online youth health page wasdeveloped to address a variety ofdevelopmental and health areas including;bullying, healthy relationships, sexualhealth, safety etc.A Kentish Youth Council (KYC) presenceon MySpace and Facebook assisted toexpand the development, impact andcommunicability of the group. Identificationof international partner youth councils andhow they may work with and assist theKYC also formed part of this process.Young people actively engaged inadditional opportunities to consultregarding ongoing strategic initiatives,advise on representative bodies andcommittees.A range of activities and supportmechanisms were utilised and engagedregularly including;- Regular meetings and communicationwith the KYC.- Relationship and support fromTandara Lodge Community HealthCentre.- Continual engagement with MerseyPCYC and the Lighthouse Project to runactivities and engage at risk youth inspecific programs.Continue to support youth initiatives$4,000 for the Kentish Youth Council.$2,500 for youth health initiatives, $4,000 foryouth week activities and $11,500 for youthactivities across the municipality.National Youth Week 2009Additional funding of $2,000 was receivedfrom the Department of Premier andCabinet, Office of Children and YouthAffairs to assist in this year’s NationalYouth Week celebrations. Activitiesincluded robot building workshops, muralpainting and domino activities. Over 150young people were involved in this year’scelebrations.36

ActivitiesPerformanceKentish Youth CouncilThe Sheffield Skate Park received afacelift.Equipment replacements werepurchased for the Sheffield and Wilmotyouth centres.Website maintenance was ongoing.Youth HealthA youth health library was introduced ateach of the three youth centres. Thelibraries include print, audio, DVD andCD-ROM resources which are free andcan be borrowed upon request.Youth ActivitiesFunds were expended on:- Training and support resources forvolunteers and leadership training- Support and materials for the‘Dreamcasters’ and’ Way of the Eagle’personal development programs- Advertising and licensing costs- Youth Centre resources- Storage shed for Wilmot Youth Group- Development of the Volunteerengagement package; and- Activity delivery through Mersey PCYC.Youth Scholarship Award Council’s annual $1,000 YouthScholarship Award was awarded toAngus Galloway.Angus will be continuing his studies as athird year student studying a Bachelor ofAgricultural Science.37

TOURISM DEVELOPMENTPERFORMANCE TARGETS and ACHIEVEMENTS:ActivitiesRevise Kentish Tourism DevelopmentPlanCommunicationBrandingPerformanceConsultation with operators is ongoingand the plan is yet to be adopted byCouncil.Kentish Council has kept local industryinformed about tourism-related eventsand issues via Kentish Council EconomicDevelopment and Tourism Committee(KCED & TC), operator meetings andelectronic newsletters.Market reinforcement of `Tasmania’sOutdoor Art Gallery’ continued at a locallevel with the Devonport and CradleCountry brand utilised to increase visitornumbers, tourism yield, identifymarketing opportunities and developtourism industry initiatives for the CradleCountry region.Product Development Kentish Council has partnered withDevils@Cradle and The WildernessGallery to produce the ‘Cradle TriplePass’. The pass offers discounted entryto three unique attractions for visitors toKentish. The pass includes aprofessional mural audio tour tocomplement the mural walk in Sheffield,a Tasmanian Devil day tour and entryinto Australia’s largest photographicgallery. The Cradle Triple Pass isdesigned to enhance the visitorexperience and encourage visitors tostay longer and spend more.38

ActivitiesMarketingThe cover of the latest Devonport & CradleCountry Visitor Guide and Touring MapPerformanceCouncil committed $6,420 for advertisingin the North-West Zone Holiday Planner,North West Coast Visitor Guide,Travelways and Explore magazine.Kentish Council provided $14,720 to theDevonport and Cradle CountryMarketing Group (Kentish, Devonport,Latrobe and Central Coast Councils) tore-design and update the ‘Devonport &Cradle Country Visitor Guide andTouring Map’. 100,000 copies wereprinted and distributed to all TasmanianVisitor Information Centres, the Spirit ofTasmania I and II as well as being usedto maximize other promotionalopportunities. DVDs were sent to localoperators as well as bus tour operatorsAustralia-wide.Other Marketing and PromotionKentish Council committed $7,745funding to reprint and update the KentishTouring Guide for businesses,organisations and TVIN centres statewide.The cover of the latest Kentish Touring Guide.Upgrade Mt Roland Walking TrackThe Mt Roland Walking Track upgradewas completed. It provides a board walkthe entire family can enjoy.39

ActivitiesKing George V Park Concept PlansPerformanceThe concept plans for the upgrade ofKing George V Park were completed.Wide community support was received inthe consultation process.International Mural FestKentish Council provided the annualMural Fest event with $10,000 financialsupport.The success and popularity of the eventis evident with Mural Fest attractinginternational interest and increasedvisitor numbers at the Kentish VisitorInformation Centre.2009 Mural Fest winner by Marc Spijkerbosch40

KENTISH VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE (KVIC)KVIC’s overall net income increased from $7,757 to $25,602, a 330% increasecompared to 2007/08. Revenues across all departments increased by 54% from$143,785 in 07/08 to $221,838 in 08/09 including a 60% increase in bookingsincome; retail sales improved by 92% and cost of goods sold increased in line withincreased turnover. Brochure display income fell by 14%, some of which can beattributed to receipts for 2008/09 being banked in 2007/08. Audio tours attracted anet rate of $1,869. This is the first full year the Audio Tours have been operating andas such no full year comparison can be made.The above figures reflect KVIC moving towards a more sustainable business model.Performance measures of an increase by 50% operating income were key toachieving annual plan expectations.Bookings expense was 39% higher than 2007/08 reflecting increased sales, whilemaintenance costs were down by 61%.Visitor numbers were up 31% with 63,828 visitors over the financial year compared to51,075 during 2007/08. The busiest visitor month was April, (in line with Mural Fest)and the busiest day was Saturday 18 April with1,464 visitors, coinciding with the finalday of Mural Fest and the inaugural Taste of the North West event.KVIC received a $5,000 grant from Tourism Tasmania’s Tasmanian VisitorInformation Network VEAP program to assist in purchasing a new retail scanningsystem and MYOB software. The grant also assisted to fund a KVIC visioningworkshop held during April.Kentish Visitor Information Centre Visitor Numbers by monthVisitor numbers140001200010000800060004000200002005-06 2006-07 2007-08 2008-09YearJulAugSepOctNovDecJanFebMarAprMayJun41

Regulatory Services ProgramAIM:To provide services in accordance with legislated responsibilities and toadminister regulations to improve and control amenity in the municipality inthe areas of Land Use Planning, Building Control, Animal Control,Environmental Health and Public Health.KEY OBJECTIVES:• Plan and administer land and building development according to the PlanningScheme, having regard to future impact, the best interests of the communityas a whole, and the ability of Council, proponents and the Kentish communityto finance the required infrastructure expansion.• Maintain a balance between the demands of rural, rural residential, urban andcommercial land users and developers, and in so doing ensure that theKentish Municipality retains its essential characteristics as a progressivecommunity with a sound appreciation of its natural beauty and features thatmust be retained.• Compliance with the Building Act 2000 and associated regulations ensuringthat all building works are within statutory requirements and relevant codes.• Provide an environmental health service ensuring that appropriate standards,practices and precautions are in place to safeguard public health and safety.• Assist in the provision of education on health standards and issues.• Enforce appropriate health standards in public places and all premisesinvolved in the preparation, storage and sale of foodstuffs.42

PLANNING AND BUILDINGPERFORMANCE TARGETS and ACHIEVEMENTS:ActivitiesAssess all applications withinstatutory time framesPerformanceThe Land Use Planning Approvals Act1993 gives Council 42 days to make adecision on a planning application. Theaverage time for assessments was 39days.Carry out Planning Schemeamendments as directed by CouncilThere was one planning schemeamendment approved by the ResourcePlanning and development Commission(RPDC) for the year. This amendmentmodified the Exemptions clause toinclude some minor domestic buildingand structures, some additions todwellings and some agricultural sheds.RPDC is still considering an applicationfor an amendment to the planningscheme in conjunction with asubdivision proposal.Implement the Local Area Plan (LAP)for Cradle ValleyA final draft of the proposed Local AreaPlan (LAP) for the Cradle Valley wasreceived. Consultation was thenundertaken with local stakeholdersresulting in further amendments beingmade to the draft. Work is continuing onthis project.43

ActivitiesPlanning Applications processedPerformanceA total of 108 decisions were madeduring year, a reduction of 30 on theprevious. A part of this decline innumbers can be attributed to theincrease in number and type ofdevelopments now included in theExemptions Schedule which wasapproved during the year.Of the 108 decisions made 4 wererefused although one was amendedand re-lodged and subsequentlyapproved.Building Applications processedThe number of building permits issuedwas also lower this year with 43 fewerapplications received.The value of approvals was also downby $1.95m. The approvals included$3m for the new Cradle MountainWastewater Treatment Plant.Performance against Budgetallocations:- Building Income was below budget by 9%.Expenditure exceeded budget by 22%.- Planning Income was in line with budget.Expenditure exceeded budget by 31%.44

HEALTHPERFORMANCE TARGETS and ACHIEVEMENTS:ActivitiesPerformanceImmunisation records An electronic immunisation recordsystem is currently used to keep trackof and report on immunisations.Human Papilloma Virus (HPV)immunisation data has been sentelectronically to the Department ofHealth and Human Services (DHHS) forinclusion in the National ImmunisationRegister.Reduction in incidences of unsafesharps disposalImmunisations undertaken andrecordedKentish Council Immunisationsconducted 2008-2009.Grade6+7HepatitisB 105Grade10Grade7-12CouncilStaff7Sharps containers are replaced free ofcharge to Kentish residents who requirethis service and are readily available tothose who need them. Some publictoilets located at Railton, Sheffield,Wilmot and Cradle Mountain havelockable wall mounted sharps bins.The public sharps disposal unit installedat Sheffield in partnership with DHHS iswell utilised.Council purchased a vaccine fridge andvaccines are now stored at the KentishCouncil Offices. All vaccinations andstorage of vaccine complied with theNational Health and Medical ResearchCouncil (NH and MRC) Guidelines. Adata logger was borrowed from DHHSto monitor the vaccine fridge followingtemperatures recorded above 8ºC forshort periods. Sunlight on the fridgedoor seemed to be the cause.Varicella 42DiphtheriaTetanusandPertussis.(Boostrix)HumanPapillomaVirus(Gardasil)Influenza267620Council continues to liaise with localGeneral Practitioners to implementschool immunisation programs withapproval granted for a vaccinationprogram employing the services of anurse immuniser.Council provided immunisations asshown in the adjacent table. Localdoctors conduct infant immunisation.45

ActivitiesPublic Health Risk ActivitiesPerformanceCurrently there are no Public HealthRisk Activities licensed/registered tooperate within the municipality.Performance against budgetallocationTotal costs were 40% below budget.Food Safety/HandlingActivitiesLiaise with Food Business operatorsincluding impromptu visitsPerformanceOperators were encouraged to providefood safety training for all staff. High riskfood businesses were encouraged toimplement Food Safety Plans appropriateto their operation.A Food Safety Plan and independentFood Safety Audit have been completedat high risk food businesses.Council continues to participate withcommunity groups to encourage healthydiet and lifestyle.Record, monitor and register existingand new premisesSixty-nine (69) food premises wereregistered within the Kentish area duringthe 2008/2009 financial year inaccordance with the Food Act 2003 andother relevant regulations. Additionaltemporary food premises are registeredthroughout the year when required.Registered food premises are routinelysurveyed, with the frequency of surveysdetermined on a risk assessment basis.Compliance with State food samplingprogramRecord complaints investigationFood sampling is conducted inaccordance with the DHHS samplingprogram. No samples taken this financialyear.All complaints were registered, prioritisedand investigated in a timely manner viaCouncil’s electronic complaints system.46

OTHER ACHIEVEMENTS:Disease (Notifiable)Where required, notifiable diseases were followed up promptly and results forwardedto the DHHS in a timely manner.Places of AssemblyActivitiesPlaces of Assembly registered inaccordance with Health Act 1997PerformancePlaces of Assembly within Kentishcorrectly licensed pursuant to the HealthAct 1997.Processing applications and resourcinginspections in a timely manner wasdifficult this year due to; insufficientapplication information, re-structuringwithin the Council Office and the transferof water and sewerage assets. Councilwill implement a new electronic system inthe near future to assist with the efficientmanagement of applications.47

ANIMAL CONTROLAIM:To assist where possible to find lost pets and remove and relocate strayanimals.To administer and advise the public, when required, on laws andprovisions under the Dog Control Act 2000.PERFORMANCE TARGETS and ACHIEVEMENTS:ActivitiesAll dogs within the municipality that areover the age of six months to beregistered and micro-chippedRespond to all complaints and callouts ina timely and sensitive mannerPerformance1728 dogs were registered in2008/09.471 dogs are micro-chipped.174 calls/complaints were receivedincluding:27 relating to barking dogs.9 dog attacks/threats to people.13 dog attacks/threats to livestock.15 relating to straying livestock thatincluded ponies, goats, cattle andsheep.17 Lost dogs, 3 lost cats and 3 losthorses.Of the 89 calls received regardingstray dogs, 46 dogs were collectedand impounded at the Spreyton DogsHome.Performance against “Isla” Budget allocation:Revenue Budget $28,000Actual $27,400Expenses Budget $25,000Actual $23,30048

Waste & Environment ProgramAIM:The provision of cost effective waste management services that meetcurrent environmental management standards and that address the needsof the community.KEY OBJECTIVES:• Promotion of an environment that contributes to the health and well beingof the community and which reflects community expectations, governmentpolicy and global trends.• Provision of support in the areas of:~ waste collection~ recycling~ land care~ weed control~ river and stream care~ flora and fauna managementPERFORMANCE TARGETS and ACHIEVEMENTS:ActivitiesDomestic waste reviewrecommendations implementedPerformanceThe mobile garbage bin kerbsidecollection service continues to servicethe urban areas including some ruralproperties along the collection route.The number of ratepayers receiving thisservice continues to increase.Households undertaking recyclingKerbside recycling includes Railton,Sheffield, Acacia Hills, Barrington,Lower Barrington and South Spreyton.Any household on route is able to usethis service.Natural Resource Managementprojects commenced under the CradleCoast Natural Resource Management(NRM) Strategy initiativeWeeds Management Strategy is beingutilised with local community groupsand Council to target priority weeds.49

ActivitiesRecorded complaints andinvestigationPerformanceConcerns are registered, prioritised andinvestigated in a timely manner.Performance against budgetallocations:- Household collections Revenue in line with Budget.Expenses 96% of Budget.- Waste Transfer Stations Revenue 13% below Budget.Expenses 20% under Budget.Expenditure at the Waste Transfer Stations increased due to increases in disposalfees at the Dulverton Regional Waste Management Landfill.OTHER ACHIEVEMENTS:General maintenance at Waste Transfer Stations at Sheffield and Wilmot andimprovements to Wilmot Recycling facilities.Ongoing equity participation and facility utilisation in the Dulverton Regional WasteManagement Authority.Ongoing participation with the local Sheffield-based recycling facility, ‘The Hub,’ inrelation to kerbside collection of recyclables.Provision of waste collection services to residents in the Sheffield, Railton and SouthSpreyton areas.50

Water and Sewerage ProgramAIM:The provision, maintenance and sustainability of adequate water andsewerage infrastructure and services.KEY OBJECTIVES:• Operate upgraded Sheffield Waste Water Treatment plant to achievelicence limits.• Operate upgraded Railton Re-use Scheme to achieve licence limits.• Continue to identify, verify and map all water and sewer infrastructure.• Continue to implement the asset management program.• Provide environmentally acceptable services to consumers andratepayers.• Ensure compliance with relevant legislation and guidelines.• To ensure all water and sewerage data is up to date and accurate for thehand over to water authority.PERFORMANCE TARGETS and ACHIEVEMENTSActivitiesSheffield Sewerage Treatment PlantUpgradePerformancePlant upgrade completed. Developing areuse scheme study and new EPN tobe completed as soon as practical.Continue identification of all sewerand water assetsThe data obtained will ensure a higheraction performance in emergencybreakdowns, and assist in the smoothtransition to the Cradle Coast WaterAuthority.51

ActivitiesContinue to reduce storm water andgroundwater ingress and infiltrationinto sewer mainsPerformanceUsing data from smoke and dye testingand CCTV footage of properties inRailton and Sheffield. Continue ingresscontrol measures, reline worst sectionsof reticulation, renew failed benching inman-holes.Sewer Pump Stations - Sheffield andRailtonContinue to manage and maintain allpump wells by progressively upgradingelectrical and mechanical components.Source engineering reports to confirmthe suitability of the three main pumpwells.Maintain detailed pump hours/raingraphs to aid in quick identification ofingress or illegal connections in thegravity sewer mains.Railton Re-use Scheme Implement the consultant’s report –installing new aerators to control bluegreenalgae, and investigate installing arock filter to improve effluent quality.Reduce incidence of faulty watermetersIdentify and replace water meters notoperating adequately.Sewerage Overflows/BreaksOne significant sewerage main breakoccurred this year. The break occurredin a 100mm main inside the property at52 Native Rock Road, Railton. Thecause was a major blockage in themains running though the property at40 Native Rock Road.Water Main BreaksOne water main break at CrockerStreet, Railton above 100mm diameter.Regular maintenance was carried outas necessary. Call outs to sub-mains inboth Railton and Sheffield has shownan increase over the last few years asthe galvanised pipelines reach the endof their economic life.52

ActivitiesAvailability of current records ofeffluent and water quality sampleresultsPerformanceA database of results from all routineand investigative sampling is current forpotable water, recreational water,sewage influent, effluent, and nearbywatercourses.Continue to identify, verify andmap all waste water and sewerageinfrastructure and establish andimplement an asset managementprogramClosed Circuit Television inspectionand survey of the majority of sewermains in the municipality has resulted inthe provision of up to date mapinformation.Survey of known water infrastructurehas also increased the quality of maps.OTHER ACHIEVEMENTS:POTABLE WATERCradle Coast Water supplies bulk water to Kentish Council. Water is routinelysampled at source and at the water storage facilities.Kentish Council, together with Cradle Coast Water, utilises the Lake BarringtonSystem “Drinking Water Quality Management Plan” as required by the DrinkingWater Guidelines November 2005.Council utilises a risk assessment approach in monitoring water from the reticulatedsupply at both Sheffield and Railton. Routine water sample results continue to becompliant with the NH&MRC “Australian Drinking Water Guidelines” requirements forthe parameters checked. Water samples from Railton and Sheffield are taken on amonthly basis and results for Faecal Coliforms were consistently within prescribedlevels. Additional water samples may be taken following a specific complaint, or ifany concerns are raised.The asset management program to install new water mains is progressing well.No “Boil Water Alerts” were issued during the year.Operators of registered private water supplies forward analyst’s reports routinely toCouncil or notify consumers of the need to boil water. Where water analysis hasindicated non-compliance, action has been taken to provide an alternative suitablewater source.53

RECREATIONAL WATEROver the warmer months Council routinely monitors Lake Barrington at Kentish Park,which is popular with water skiers, and at the International Rowing Course. Watertest results were within parameters for primary contact recreation with the exceptionof one sample taken during the National Rowing Regatta. Further investigation couldnot confirm the source of the high result, however rain prior to sampling and stormwater runoff may have resulted in a short term poor water quality. The tables andgraphs below show enterococcus results for Kentish Park and Lake BarringtonRowing Course.Lake Barrington Kentish Park results:Sample PointK01 - Lake BarringtonKentish ParkK01 - Lake BarringtonKentish ParkK01 - Lake BarringtonKentish ParkK01 - Lake BarringtonKentish ParkK01 - Lake BarringtonKentish ParkTestEnterococcus MF 100ml[WB304.6]Enterococcus MF 100ml[WB304.6]Enterococcus MF 100ml[WB304.6]Enterococcus MF 100ml[WB304.6]Enterococcus MF 100ml[WB304.6]CollectedOn3/12/200814/01/20094/02/20094/03/20091/04/2009Tested On11/12/200815:4222/01/20098:2012/02/20098:2512/03/200910:219/04/200912:03Result Text< 1 CFU/100mL30 CFU/100mL32 CFU/100mL60 CFU/100mL1 CFU/100mL54

Lake Barrington International Rowing Course results:Sample PointK02 - Lake BarringtonRowingK02 - Lake BarringtonRowingK02 - Lake BarringtonRowingK02 - Lake BarringtonRowingK02 - Lake BarringtonRowingK02 - Lake BarringtonRowingTestEnterococcus MF 100ml[WB304.6]Enterococcus MF 100ml[WB304.6]Enterococcus MF 100ml[WB304.6]Enterococcus MF 100ml[WB304.6]Enterococcus MF 100ml[WB304.6]Enterococcus MF 100ml[WB304.6]CollectedOn3/12/200814/01/20094/02/200918/02/20094/03/20091/04/2009Tested On11/12/200815:4222/01/20098:2112/02/20098:2626/02/200910:2012/03/200910:219/04/200912:03Result Text17 CFU/100mL2 CFU/100mL23 CFU/100mL2 CFU/100mL300 CFU/100mL4 CFU/100mLCouncil continues to liaise with community groups and other relevant departments toaddress areas of concern. Should the need arise Council will investigate recreationalwater quality concerns in relation to sites which are occasionally used by smallgroups of people.Operators of pools and spas located within the Kentish municipal area, that are openfor public use, forward regular analyst reports to Council.55

Recreation & Reserves ProgramAIM:To provide a range of appropriate and well managed facilities for passiveand active recreation.KEY OBJECTIVES:• Identify areas that require upgrading of access to public facilities fordisabled persons.• Maintaining parks, streets and recreational reserves to a level thatencourages local communities to engage in both passive and activerecreational activities.• Identify areas of risk and safety in our parks and other public facilities.• Continuous review of community needs and requirements and thenecessity to retain facilities.PERFORMANCE TARGETS AND ACHIEVEMENTSActivitiesRisk Management and Safety in ourparks and reservesPerformanceA concerted effort was directed to treemanagement including maintenance oftrees located in parks and streets thatmay present problems due to droppedlimbs. This is an on-going project.Upgrade of public amenitiesPublic toilets at parks and reserveshave been upgraded to an improvedstandard.Upgrade to Public Halls and Buildings Upgrade works including toiletrestoration and electrical switchboardshave been carried out on Barrington,Beulah, Claude Road and SheffieldTown Halls.Staged works on Sheffield, RailtonStreetscape ProjectsOngoing.Performance against budgetallocationExpenses 1% under Budget.56

Other AchievementsOther Projects Completed:Replace floor coverings in the following facility kitchens:Beulah Hall $2,200Senior Citizens Hall $2,500New Kitchen installed Claude Road Hall $2,500New kitchen cupboards in Claude Road HallNew Floor in Senior Citizens Hall57

Roads and Streets ProgramAIM:To carry out all construction and maintenance activities in compliancewith quality standards and accepted engineering guidelines.To develop and implement infrastructure asset management plans forroads and bridges.KEY OBJECTIVES:• Provide and maintain the infrastructure for which Council is responsible,including roads, bridges, footpaths, drains and associated assets.• Ensure that works are carried out by adequately trained works staff, usingmodern machinery and resources. Use of external contractors has beenutilised, as required, to ensure that all road, bridge and other works areundertaken and completed in a timely manner.• Ensure that a disciplined asset management process is put in place andthat appropriate management and staff effort is directed to the task ofensuring that assets are managed in a sustainable manner.• Pay high regard to the environmental impact of works and maintain thehighest standards of safety, amenity, health and sanitation.• Ensure that occupational health and safety, risk management, publicliability and professional conduct standards are disseminated to all staff,and that these standards are adhered to not only by staff but contractorsto Council as well.Back Road, Wilmot58

PERFORMANCE TARGETS and ACHIEVEMENTS:TargetAchievement of reseal works as perworks programOutcome113,500m 2 of resealing undertaken inline with 20 year resealing program.Completion of Roads to Recoveryprojects including: SheffieldStreetscape, Lower BeulahBridge and Back Road, WilmotProjects completed in June 2009.Development of a Road AssetManagement PlanKentish Road Asset Management Plancompleted and adopted by Council inAugust 2008.Bridge Replacement ScheduleCarry out replacements as per BridgeManagement SystemThe Lower Beulah Bridge over MinnowRiver was replaced at a cost of$189,000.Completion of Bridge Inspection andMaintenance programSix-monthly maintenance inspectionswere conducted by Tas Span.Approximately $59,000 was spent onmaintenance during the year.Reduction in complaints. Allcomplaints promptly investigatedComplaints were registered andprioritised.Conduct an open tendering processfor purchasing activities as requiredby Council Policy and in accordancewith the Kentish Council Code ofPublic TenderingTendering Policy adopted by Council.All contracts awarded in accordancewith the Kentish Council Code of PublicTendering including:- Resealing- Works Supervisor vehicle- 6 tonne truck- Tractor- Works vehicle- Town vehiclePerformance against BudgetallocationRevenue 41% above Budget.Expenses 16% below Budget.59

OTHER ACTIVITIES:Roads and StreetsOver $1,000,000 was spent maintaining Council’s roads and streets during the year.An extensive program of sealed road shoulder rehabilitation was undertaken toimprove drainage and to increase vehicle safety.Appropriate street cleaning was undertaken in accordance with health standards andcommunity expectations.Bituminous resealing was carried out throughout the municipality in line with thetwenty-year resealing program.Roads resheeting work undertaken $300,000Plant replaced includes works plant, vehiclesand other minor equipment $408,000FootpathsInspections and the necessary follow-up maintenance and reconstruction, totallingsome $34,190, have been undertaken pursuant to Council’s Risk ManagementPolicy.Major ContractsLocal Government (General) Regulations 2005, Reg 23 (5)The following contracts in excess of $100,000 excluding GST were entered into byCouncil during the financial year.Bugg Goninon Pty Ltd $135,620.00Cradle Coast Water $269,762.00Dulverton Regional Waste Management $143,532.77Gaffney Machinery Pty Ltd $132,083.66Hardings Hotmix Pty Ltd $984,198.85Motor Group Tas Pty Ltd $101,044.10Simmonds & Bristow $341,216.68T & J Coates Water Management $549,896.36TCG Planning $107,843.84Treloar Transport $713,639.23Valueit Pty Ltd $147,135.00VEC Civil Engineering Pty Ltd $208,369.98Veolia Environmental Service $155,419.2760

Financial ReportYear Ending 30 June 200961