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Berri Barmera Council
Annual Report
2007 – 2008
CONTENTS
MAYOR’S REPORT:
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CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER’S REPORT:
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EXECUTIVE SERVICES:
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5 - 49
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50 - 73
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74 - 84
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85 - 92
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR 2006 – 2007:
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93 - 136
REGIONAL SUBSIDIARY REPORTS: …
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136 - 190
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Governance
Compliance
Economic Development
Financial Management
CORPORATE AND COMMUNITY:
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Corporate Services
Community Services
ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES:
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Operations
General
INFRASTRUCTURE SERVICES:
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Operations
General
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Murray and Mallee Local Government Association
Provincial Cities Association
MAYOR’S REPORT
It is with great pleasure that I present my Annual Report of the Berri Barmera Council for 2007/08.
Unfortunately however, this past year has not seen the change that we would have liked for our communities
and we still find ourselves in the worse drought on record. My thoughts and prayers are with those individuals
and families who are still finding things difficult. However, I would just like to point out that there is help out there
and if you need it, don't be afraid to ask.
On a brighter note, during July we celebrated the 10th Anniversary of the opening of the Berri Bridge. It was a
pleasure to have had the two previous Mayors, Margaret Evans from the Berri Barmera Council and Jan Cass
from the District Council of Loxton Waikerie join us on the day as they were both very active and instrumental in
making sure the bridge came to fruition.
In August I had the privilege of opening the Barmera Bowling Club's new synthetic greens and Bowling Season
to the elation of their members. Council donated $50,000.00 towards the project.
Also in August the Barmera community had a presentation from QED P/L on the future foreshore area of Lake
Bonney. QED P/L are consultants that Council engaged to undertake the design project. Coincidentally a few
months later on a trip to Barmera, Premier Mike Rann announced that his Government would allocate
$100,000.00 to the Lake foreshore project. As part of that offer Council will be matching that figure with funds
and in-kind work. The project should be nearing completion by the end of 08.
After several months of deliberating by the State Government and unfortunately very little rainfall in the
catchment area, during September we seen the closing off of Lake Bonney from the Murray River. A temporary
embankment was erected across the inlet to the Lake at Nappers Bridge. To this stage it is still unknown when a
partial refill could take place or when it would again be reopened.
At the start of the year Council put forward a Berri Town Centre Vision proposal to the community for
consultation and comment on what it would like to see happen within the township over the next 5-15 years.
Although there was some initial reaction to the proposal from some community members, overall there has been
a positive response. Part of that vision included a new Recreation Centre which would include a new swimming
pool.
Naturally while the drought continues and the economy is not as vibrant, Council will be acting responsibly and
not pursuing areas of the project as intense in the interim.
Unfortunately in February due to health problems our CEO Stephen Rufus resigned from Council after serving
only 3 ¼ years with us. On behalf of Council I would therefore like to acknowledge what Stephen has done for
the Berri Barmera Council during his short stay and wish him, his wife Donna and their children all the very best
for the future.
In May David Beaton started his employment as our new CEO and I feel very confident that with the knowledge
that David has of Local Government and also in knowing that he has lived in the area in the past, will stand us in
good stead for the years ahead. I along with the Elected Members and Staff welcome David and his wife Cathy
back to the Riverland. They also have three adult children.
Other notable events and projects to take place over the year included the Riverland Wine and Food Festival,
the opening of the new Boat Ramp and Pontoon Landing at Bruno Bay, the Seniors Christmas Parties, the
Australia Day Celebrations and Naturalization of several New Australians and the ongoing construction of new
footpaths within all towns, just to name a few.
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To find out more on the operations of your Council, I would urge you all to please read through the Annual
Report in its entirety.
In conclusion, I would like to pass on my sincere appreciation to my fellow Elected Members, CEO David
Beaton, Executive Officers, Staff and all Volunteers for their continued dedication that they have shown in
serving the Berri Barmera Council area during 2007/08.
PETER R. HUNT
MAYOR
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CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER’S REPORT
The 2007/08 financial year will go down as one of Australia‟s and the Riverland‟s most tumultuous with locally
the instigation of water restrictions for irrigators, which has followed on to the rest of the community. The
disconnection of Lake Bonney from the River Murray is a sign of the seriousness of the water restrictions and a
highly visible and emotive example we live with each day. This coupled with the collapse of the world financial
sector and the flow onto Australia and a new federal government emphasizes the need to pull together to
protect our communities.
The people of the area are welcoming and friendly but your ability to be resilient and adapt to changing global
and Australian trends has underlined your success in the past and it will be what makes you successful in the
future. The future for the area will always be strongly linked to the fate of the Murray River and irrigated
horticulture and the Council is committed to working with the state and federal governments to attract support for
our residents.
Council has ambitious plans for the areas that will require massive support from government to come to fruition
as Council understands although we are a low debt Council our rates are high and we can not expect the
ratepayers to continue to pay more.
The Berri Barmera Council together with other Councils face the challenges of sustaining what we have and
planning for the future. During the 2008/09 year Council will finalise long term financial management plans and
asset management and will consult with you the information. Council will need to refocus on its core
responsibilities to ensure the long term financial future.
The Council is a lean organisation which must rely on contractors and consultants from time to time to
supplement the skill of our employees to cope with the spasmodic nature of some requirements. The standard
of workmanship and detail of work undertaken by the Council is high quality that will reduce the need for
maintenance in the future. The office staff are productive in offices that have outgrown their use by date.
I would like to personally thank the Mayor Peter Hunt and the councillors for their support. I believe that the
ability, skill and knowledge they have will stand this community in good stead for the short and long term
challenges that are ahead. My wife Cathy and I are enjoying being back in the region and look forward to
making a contribution towards a bright and sustainable future.
The former Chief Executive Officer Stephen Rufus remains active in the community and I wish he and his family
all the best for the future.
DAVID BEATON
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
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EXECUTIVE SERVICES
GOVERNANCE:
Council Profile
General Information
Corporate Structure
Organisational Structure
Regional Involvement - MMLGA / Provincial Cities / Riverland Local Government Forum
Senior Executive Officers – Register of Salaries
Human Resource Management – Occupational Health, Safety and Welfare
Decision Making Structure of Council
Council / Committee Meetings
Strategic Plan
Annual Business Plan Implementation
Strategic Plan Framework
Community Consultation
Page … 5
COMPLIANCE:
Registers, Codes, Policies and Procedures
Members Allowances
Elector Representation Review
Competitive Tendering / Cost Effective Delivery of Service
Delegations of Power
Grievance Procedures
Council and Committee Meetings / Matters Considered in Confidence
Freedom of Information Statement
National Competition Policy
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT:
The Berri Town Centre Renewal Project
FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT:
Financial Management Statement
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GOVERNANCE:
The Executive Services Department is headed by the Chief Executive Officer.
The Executive Services Department is responsible for the following functions of
Council:
Chief Executive Officer
Mr David Beaton
Elected Members
Strategic Plan
Political Relations
Public Relations
Policies and Procedures
Accountability
Legislative Compliance
Council / Committee Meetings
By Law Administration
Human Resource Management
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To effectively implement the management and operations of the Department the following Staffing Structure
applies:
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Chief Finance Officer
Executive Assistant
Human Resource / Risk Manager
Asset / Technical Officer
Deputy Chief Executive Officer
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COUNCIL PROFILE:
COUNCIL MEMBERS – NOVEMBER 2006 - 2010
Mayor Peter Hunt
PO Box 367
BERRI SA 5343
Phone: 8582 2212
Standing Committees of Council:
Cr Rhonda Centofanti
(Deputy Mayor)
PO Box 182
WINKIE SA 5343
Phone: 8583 7216
Executive Services
Corporate & Community Services
Infrastructure Services
Environmental Services
Standing Committees of Council:
Specific Purposes Committees of Council:
Specific Purposes Committees of Council:
Berri Riverfront Redevelopment Advisory Committee
Lake Bonney Redevelopment Advisory Committee
Waste Water Re-Use Project
Berri Riverfront Redevelopment Advisory Committee
Cemetery Advisory Committee
Other:
Berri Barmera Development Assessment Panel (Chair)
Murray Mallee Local Government Association
TriState Local Government Assoc.
Provincial Cities Association
LGA of SA
Riverland Development Corporation
Riverland Local Government Forum
Presiding Member - Executive Services
Corporate and Community Services
Environmental Services
Other:
Murray Mallee Local Government Association
TriState Local Government Association
Provincial Cities Association
LGA of SA
Berri Barmera Development Assessment Panel
Upper Murray Garden Of Memory (Cemetery) Committee
(Observer)
Riverland Local Government Forum
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Cr. Bill Kanakaris
Cr Bruce Richardson
74 Nookamka Terrace
BARMERA SA 5345
Phone: 8588 1558
Box 509
BERRI SA 5343
Phone: 8583 2187
Standing Committees of
Council:
Presiding Member - Corporate and
Community Services
Executive Services
Standing Committees of Council:
Corporate and Community Services
Executive Services
Specific Purposes Committees of
Council:
Specific Purposes Committees Audit Committee
of Council:
Lake Bonney Redevelopment
Other:
Advisory Committee
Cemetery Advisory Committee
Regional Steering Committee Riverland Recreation & Sports Project
2007-2010 Partnership Proposal
Other:
Cr Barry Fletcher
PO Box 546
BARMERA SA 5345
Phone: 8588 2861
Standing Committees of
Council:
Presiding Member - Infrastructure
Services
Specific Purposes
Committees of Council:
Lake Bonney Redevelopment
Advisory Committee
Cemetery Advisory Committee
Other:
Barmera District War Memorial
Community Centre (Observer)
Riverland Community Road Safety
Group Inc. (Observer)
Berri Barmera Development
Assessment Panel
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Cr Jim Rolfe
Cr Geoff Higgs
PO Box 31
BERRI SA 5343
Phone: 8582 2608
Standing Committees of
Council:
Infrastructure Services
PO Box 170
BARMERA SA 5345
Phone: 8588 1204
Standing Committees of Council:
Infrastructure Services
Environmental Services
Specific Purposes Committees Specific Purposes Committees of
of Council:
Council:
Waste Water Re-Use Project
Committee
Other:
Lone Gum & Monash Community
Association Inc. (Observer)
Cr Les Hill
Unit 26 Cottage Homes
McGilton Road
BERRI SA 5343
Phone: 8582 1531
Lake Bonney Redevelopment Advisory
Committee
Waste Water Re-Use Project Committee
Other:
Cobdogla Soldiers Memorial Hall
Committee (Observer)
Standing Committees of
Council:
Presiding Member - Environmental
Services
Specific Purposes
Committees of Council:
Berri Riverfront Redevelopment
Advisory Committee
Waste Water Re-Use Project
Committee
Audit Committee
Other:
MMLGA Regional Community
Water Management Scheme
(CWMS)
Murray Darling Association
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Cr Trevor Chapple
Cr Vicki Beech
Cr Bruce Casey
PO Box 567
BERRI SA 5343
Phone: 8583 2057
11 Rosenthal Drive
BERRI SA 5343
Phone: 8582 1293
PO Box 3
BERRI SA 5343
Phone: 8582 1543
Standing Committees of
Council:
Executive Services
Standing Committees of Council:
Corporate and Community Services
Environmental Services
Standing Committees of
Council:
Infrastructure Services
Specific Purposes Committees Specific Purposes Committees of
Council:
of Council:
Specific Purposes
Committees of Council:
Berri Traders Association
(Observer)
Murray Darling Association
Other:
Berri Riverfront Redevelopment
Advisory Committee
Waste Water Re-Use Project Committee
Other:
Berri Barmera Development
Assessment Panel
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Riverland Youth Theatre (Observer)
Berri Barmera Development
Assessment Panel
COUNCIL GENERAL INFORMATION:
COUNCIL AREA
The Berri Barmera Council area incorporates the Berri, Barmera, Cobdogla, Loveday, Monash, Glossop, Winkie
and Overland Corner districts. There are no Wards, with all ten elected members (and the Mayor) representing
the interests of the entire community and district.
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CORPORATE STRUCTURE:
The following Corporate and Functional Structure reflects areas of responsibility within Council‟s various
Departments/Functions.
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To compliment the Corporate and Functional Structure further, four main Committees have been appointed to
enhance decision making and accountability of the Department/Functional areas. The Committees are:
Executive Services
Corporate and Community Services
Infrastructure Services
Environmental Services
Additional information on the roles and functions of the Council is included in the “Decision Making Structure of
the Council” section of the report.
The Council also has a number of Standing and Specific Purpose Committees.
They include:
Standing Committees of Council:
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Executive Services Committee
Corporate and Community Services Committee
Environmental Services Committee
Infrastructure Services Committee
Specific Purposes Committees:
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Cemetery Advisory Committee
Audit Committee
Berri Riverfront Redevelopment Advisory Committee
Lake Bonney Redevelopment Advisory Committee
Waste Water Re Use Project Committee
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Berri Barmera Council Building Fire Safety Committee
Berri Barmera Bushfire Prevention Committee
Riverland Community Transport Scheme
Berri Barmera Development Assessment Panel
Other:
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ORGANISATIONAL STRUCTURE:
The following Organisational Structure was adopted by Council to integrate with Council‟s Corporate Structure.
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Chief Finance Officer
Executive Assistant
Human Resources/Risk Manager
Asset / Technical Officer
Deputy Chief Executive Officer
Property Officer
Manager Environ. Services
Administration / Customer Services
- 4 F/T employees
- 3 P/T employees
- 1 Trainee
Dev. Officer/Building
Dev. Off./Planning
Env. Health Officer
General Inspector
Effluent / Waste Contractors
Community Development Officer
Youth Development Officer
Manager Infrastructure Services
Visitor Information Centre Manager
3 Part Time
Personal Assistant
Infrastructure Contractors
Parks & Gardens Team Leader
- 7 employees
Library/Customer Service Centre Manager
Berri:
- 2 Part time
- 4 Part Time
Barmera:
Infrastructure/Maint. Team Leader
- 8 employees
Infrastructure/Const. Team Leader
- 8 employees
Workshop Depot Team Leader
- 2 employees
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Team Leader
- 3 P/T
- 1 Casual
- 1 P/T Casual
REGIONAL INVOLVEMENT:
Murray and Mallee Local Government Association
Council is a member of the Murray and Mallee Local Government Association which is a Regional Subsidiary
established pursuant to the Schedule 2, Schedule 28 of the Local Government Act, 1999. The membership of
the Association includes the following Councils:
Berri Barmera Council
Coorong District Council
District Council of Karoonda East Murray
District Council of Loxton Waikerie
Mid Murray Council
The Rural City of Murray Bridge
Renmark Paringa Council, and
Southern Mallee District Council
A requirement of Schedule 2 (Section 28) is that the Annual Report of the Regional Subsidiary should form part
of this Council's Annual Report.
The Annual Report of the Murray and Mallee Local Government Association is included in this report at pages
136 - 177.
Provincial Cities Association
The Berri Barmera Council is a member of the Provincial Cities Association, with membership shared on a onethird basis with the Loxton Waikerie and Renmark Paringa Councils to form the Riverland Membership. The
Association is constituted as a Regional Subsidiary pursuant to Sch. 2 Section 28 the Local Government Act
1999. It is to be noted that the Riverland Councils ceased membership of the Provincial Cities Association as at
30th June 2008.
The Membership of the Association as at 30th June 2008 includes:
City of Port Augusta
City of Mount Gambier
City of Port Lincoln
City of Whyalla
City of Victor Harbor
Port Pirie Regional Council
Rural City of Murray Bridge
The Riverland
The Annual Report and Financial Statement prepared by the Provincial Cities Association is included in this
report at Pages 178 - 190.
Riverland Local Government Association
The Berri Barmera Council, along with the Loxton Waikerie and Renmark Paringa Councils form the Riverland
Local Government Forum. Though the Forum is not constituted under the Local Government Act, the Forum
does provide an opportunity for the Riverland Councils to meet and discuss issues affecting the Region.
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SENIOR EXECUTIVE OFFICERS:
Register Of Salaries:
TITLE OF POSITION
CLASSIFICATION
NO. OF
EMP.
Chief Executive Officer
Contract Agreement
1
OTHER BENEFITS OR PACKAGES
PROVIDED ETC.
3/2 yr. package Agreement.
Novated Lease Available
TOIL for out of hours work
Annual salary increase CPI – as per contract
Mobile Phone / Work Related calls
Deputy Chief
Executive Officer
ASU Award Senior
Officer Level 4 Inc. 1
1
Includes E.B.
Novated Lease Allowance $17,306
Civic Allowance $3,135
Telephone Allowance $2,090
No payment of overtime etc.
Manager
Infrastructure
Services
ASU Award Senior
Officer Level 2 Inc. 3
Includes E.B.
1
Novated Lease Allowance $17,306
Telephone Rental
Manager
Environmental
Services
ASU Award Senior
Officer Level 2 Inc. 3
Includes E.B. 6
Continued
1
Novated Lease Allowance $17,306
All telephone rental & calls incl. Mobile (excl.
o/seas calls)
Municipal allowance $2,000 pa
5 yr Contract to 1/1/2010
Chief Finance Officer
ASU Award Level
Senior 1 Officer Level
2 Inc. 3
Includes EB
1
Telephone Allowance $2,000
Civic Allowance $2,000
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HUMAN RESOURCES
Within the Berri Barmera Council Human Resources contributes to Council‟s mission through the development
and integration of human resources principles and practices to enhance individual and organisational
effectiveness.
Staffing Profile For the period 1 July 2007 to 30 June 2008 council employed 87 staff. Council develops and
supports a flexible workforce and management structure committed to the continued improvement and success
of the Berri Barmera Council. With a variety of worksites with varying needs, a flexible workforce enables
Council to provide and deliver a high level of service to our community and visitors to our region.
Training
Council currently undertakes a training and skills improvement programme which is aimed to increase individual
expertise of employees with a view to improve excellence within the Council through the provision of defined
career paths for employees. Training needs analysis primarily occurs through a staff development review
process, through the evolution and expansion of positions, and as part of legislative compliance. Funds are
allocated to training in the annual budget and are managed by departments.
HR Initiatives
Employee Assistance Programme
Council engages within its management the need to focus on a holistic work life balance, assisting in creating
greater vitality and enthusiasm in the pursuit of both personal and working endeavors. Increasing life demands
have, for many created difficulties in remaining focused on work requirements, contributing to higher levels of
reported stress and workplace issues such as absenteeism. Council is currently in the process of implementing
the Employee Assistance Programme (EAP). Available through the EAP will be a variety of services for
employees and Council is in current negotiations for the implementation of the provision for counseling services.
Employment Opportunities
Council has commenced its Career Development Programme (CDP), which sees a number of positions
allocated to a rotational appointment of trainees within the various departments in Council. This is an
opportunity for Council to further actively participate in the growth of the community by providing training
opportunities to begin or further enhance career paths within the region.
INJURY AND REHABILIATION MANAGEMENT
The Local Government Association (LGA), which operates for and on behalf of Council is part of a registered
Group of Exempt Employers to conduct and manage a Local Government Workers Compensation Selfinsurance Scheme. The LGA established the Local Government Association Workers Compensation Scheme
(LGAWCS) to provide a scheme for self insurance and provides Council with competitive rates and delivers
unique programmes to assist Council, being the; Healthy Lifestyle Programme which provides a detailed health
assessment to participating staff members; and the access to the services of a Regional Risk Coordinator
(RRC) to assist Council in the management and delivery of safety and risk to meet Performance Standards.
Effective and efficient injury management is crucial to the rehabilitation of an injured employee. Council assists
the employee to return to work and achieve the best practicable level of physical and mental recovery through
our Injury and Rehabilitation Management (IRM) Procedure. Further to Councils IRM Procedures, the LGAWCS
provides Injury and Rehabilitation Management by;
- Pro Active Claims Management
- In House Rehabilitation
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- Training and Education
- Professional advice and Business Planning in OHSW and IRM
RISK MANAGEMENT
Council endeavors through planning, implementation and completion stages to minimize risk of the potential
losses against employees, assets, liabilities and the community. Council‟s civil liabilities are protected by the
Local Government Association Mutual Liability Scheme (LGAMLS), a self managed fund in agreement between
LGA and CPA. The LGAMLS conducts an annual review of all Local Governments into the areas of;
- Risk / Emergency Management / Professional Indemnity
- Committee and Non Employment Management
- Contract Management
- Legislative Requirements – Land
- Asset management Programs and Systems – Land
- Land Use (Lease / License / Permit Activities)
- Road Management Programs and Systems
OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH, SAFETY AND WELFARE (OHSW)
Council aims to minimise the risk of injury and ill health to its employees by adopting a planned and systematic
approach to the management of occupational health, safety and welfare and developing strategies for its
successful implementation. Council will achieve its occupational health, safety and welfare aim by developing
and implementing appropriate policies and procedures which document standards and guide managers and
employees in performing their responsibilities.
OHSW Management Plan
The objectives of the OHSW Management Plan is to ensure that the Performance Standards for Self Insurers
are met and for facilitating continuous improvement of the OHSW System. When appropriate, responsibilities,
key performance indicators and time frames have been included to assess against the targets as determined by
the OHSW Committee. The OHSW Management Plan and OHSW System addresses strategies on issues such
as;
- Training
- Safety culture
- Performance Measurement
- Equating safety to sustainability
OHSW Committee
The current structure of the OHSW Committee consists of three employers and three employees, with at least
one member representing each worksite. The OHSW Committee is governed by the constitution and rules as
developed and endorsed by the committee, and by various legislation. The prime objective of the OHSW
committee is to continually monitor and review the OHSW Management Plan and OHSW System by addressing
areas of non compliance, to either rectify the issue or improve performance.
Health and Safety Representatives
Two designated workgroups being Infrastructure Services and Corporate and Community Services have been
identified and a Health and Safety Representative (HSR) has been appointed for each workgroup by their
relevant peers. The HSR‟s have been appointed in accordance with the provisions under the OHSW Act.
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DECISION MAKING STRUCTURE OF COUNCIL:
To facilitate sound governance and to ensure that decision making processes are carried out in the most
efficient manner the Council has adopted the following decision making structure. The structure of Council and
its major committees which integrate with Council‟s Corporate Structure are as follows.
COUNCIL
Development
Assessment
Panel
Corporate and
Community
Services Committee
Infrastructure
Services
Committee
Executive Services
Committee
Environmental
Services
Committee
DEVELOPMENT ASSESSMENT PANEL
The Development Act 1993 and the Development Regulations 1993 provide for the Council to be
responsible for the management of most development within its area.
The Council, pursuant to Section 56A of the Development Act 1993, has established a Development
Assessment Panel to assist it to exercise or perform its functions in relation to development assessment
matters in accordance with the delegations that the Council has conferred upon it.
Membership
Mr P. Hunt (Chairperson)
Mrs R. Centofanti
Mrs V Beech
Mr V. (Bill) Kanakaris
Mr B Casey
Mr D. Beaton - Non Voting / Advisory Capacity
Mr S. Kubasiewicz - Non Voting / Advisory Capacity
The following Committees have been formed pursuant to Section 41 of the Local Government Act 1999.
Information is provided on the purpose of the Committee, with information on the Committee‟s roles etc.
contained in the Terms of Reference.
CORPORATE SERVICES COMMITTEE
The purpose of the Committee is to oversee the Management of the Corporate and Community
Services Department of the Council in conjunction with the Manager, via the development, monitoring,
review and implementation of Department Management Plans, Strategic Direction, Budgets, Annual
Business Plans, Service Standards, Policies and Procedures, to ensure integration with Council‟s
overall strategic direction.
The areas of responsibility of the Committee are in accordance with the Department functions as per
the Functional Structure of the Council and detailed as follows:- Policies and Procedures, Legislative
Compliance, Council / Committee Meetings, By-law Administration, Rates & Property, Insurance,
Tourism, Cemeteries Administration, Open Space Administration, Debtors / Creditors, Payroll,
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Information Technology, Records Management, Library, Community Transport, Youth, Emergency
Services, Culture & Heritage, Community / Social Development, Sport & Recreation Administration,
Aged Persons, Medical & Health Services, Council Properties Administration, Customer Service,
Council Support / Administration, Contracts, Leases, Licences and Permits.
Membership
Voting Members:
Presiding Member
Mayor (ex-Officio)
Three (3) Elected Members
Non-Voting Members
Deputy Chief Executive Officer
Chief Executive Officer
INFRASTRUCTURE SERVICES COMMITTEE
The purpose of the Committee is to oversee the Management of the Infrastructure Services Department
of the Council in conjunction with the Manager, via the development, monitoring, review and
implementation of Department Management Plans, Strategic Direction, Budgets, Annual Business
Plans, Service Standards, Policies and Procedures, to ensure integration with Councils overall strategic
direction.
The areas of responsibility of the Committee are in accordance with the Department functions as per
the Functional Structure of the Council and detailed as follows:- Road Construction / Maintenance,
Parks & Gardens Development / Maintenance, Depot Maintenance, Plant & Machinery, Street Cleaning,
Street Lighting, Cemeteries Development / Maintenance, Public Conveniences, Property Maintenance,
Vandalism, Quarries, Boat Ramps, Sport & Recreation Maintenance, Private Works, Waste
Management.
Membership
Voting Members
Presiding Member
Mayor (ex-Officio)
Three (3) Elected Members
Non-Voting Members
Manager Infrastructure Services
Chief Executive Officer
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EXECUTIVE SERVICES COMMITTEE
The purpose of the Committee is to manage and provide direction to Council on matters of Governance
and the Executive Services Function of the Council in conjunction with the Chief Executive Officer.
The roles and functions of the Committee shall be undertaken via the development, monitoring,
implementing and review of Management Plans, Strategic Plans, Budgets, Annual Business Plans,
Service Standards, Policies and Procedures, while ensuring continual integration with Council‟s overall
strategic direction.
The areas of responsibility of the Committee are in accordance with the Functional Structure of the
Council and detailed as follows:- Governance, Human Resources, Policy Development, Accountability,
Community Participation and Consultation, Economic Development, Financial Management, Strategic
Planning, Political and Public Relations, Elected Members, Grants Commission, Business
Development, Risk Management and OHS&W.
Membership
Voting Members
Presiding Member
Mayor (ex-Officio)
Three (3) Elected Members
Non-Voting Members
Chief Executive Officer
Executive Assistant
Chief Finance Officer
Human Resource Manager
ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES COMMITTEE
The purpose of the Committee is to oversee the Management of the Environmental Services
Department of the Council in conjunction with the Manager, via the development, monitoring, review
and implementation of Department Management Plans, Strategic Direction, Budgets, Annual Business
Plans, Service Standards and Policies and Procedures, to ensure integration with Councils overall
strategic direction.
The areas of responsibility of the Committee are in accordance with the Department functions as per
the Functional Structure of the Council and detailed as follows:- Planning & Building Assessment,
Development Planning/Policy, Environmental Health, Dog and Cat Management, Parking Control,
Bushfire Prevention, Livestock Control, Riverfront/Foreshore, Waste Management (Planning), Animal &
Plant Control, General Inspections, Effluent Drainage - Management, Planning & Maintenance, By-Law
Enforcement, Property Management/Maintenance, Open Space Planning, Plan Amendment Report
Review/Process, Natural Resources and Environmental Management, Waste Water Re-use.
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Membership
Voting Members
Presiding Member
Mayor (ex-Officio)
Three (3) Elected Members
Non-Voting Members
Manager of Environmental Services
Chief Executive Officer
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COUNCIL / COMMITTEE MEETINGS:
Council meetings are held on the fourth Tuesday of every month commencing at 6.00 p.m. These meetings are
maintained in a public forum with the exception of items that Council considers for reasons pursuant to Section
90 of the Local Government Act need to be discussed in confidence. Although meetings are held in a public
forum, members of the public attending are not permitted to speak, however individuals are provided with an
opportunity to make representation and address Council on specific issues that are raised.
In addition, the Council maintains a wide distribution of its Council and Committee Agendas to the local
community through different outlets e.g. the Berri Library and Information Centre, the Barmera Library and
Customer Service Centre and also the Council website. The local media are also provided with a copy of the
Agenda to ensure that coverage of Council issues are disseminated to the wider community.
In addition, the Council and committee agendas are also placed on public display within the Council office at
least three days prior to the Council and committee meetings in accordance with the provisions of the Local
Government Act 1999.
In addition to the above mentioned Committees, the Council also has formed a number of other committees that
incorporate either full Council representation or a mixture of Council and community representation and perform
various tasks or manage Council facilities. These committees include the following:
Cemetery Advisory Committee
Berri Riverfront Redevelopment Advisory Committee
Lake Bonney Redevelopment Advisory Committee
Waste Water Re Use Committee
Audit Committee
Following Meetings of Council and Committees, the Minutes of such are available on the Council‟s Website.
Minutes can also be viewed at the Council Office or purchased if desired.
Page … 24
STRATEGIC PLAN
Council continued to enforce the Strategic Plan 2006-2016 that was adopted in July of 2006. The Strategic Plan
is based on the principles of the Balanced Scorecard Approach.
The Balanced Scorecard Approach to Strategic Planning integrates with key drivers or perspectives and the
quadruple bottom line. This approach provides the basis for measuring the implementation of Corporate
Objectives developed for the Council via all projects and business activities. The Corporate Objectives
developed integrate with 8 principles, being Governance and Finance, Social and Community, Environment and
Heritage, Economic Development, Customer Satisfaction, Internal Processes, Infrastructure and Learning and
Growth.
The development of the Strategic Plan incorporates greater integration of Council‟s Corporate Objectives and
the achievement of the vision and mission of the Council with all Council reporting, annual reports and
assessment of future projects. The purpose of the Strategic Plan is to provide greater accountability on
Council‟s Vision for the future and is supported by a Strategic Planning framework that will see the development
of a vision and management plan along with operational plans and implementation strategies.
The Strategic Plan 2006-2016 established the following Vision and Mission for the Council:
VISION:
Building a better community
The Vision of the council is underpinned by the basic principle that everything the council does affects the
quality of life of the community and therefore everything that is done in the future must enhance the quality of
life, thus “Building a Better Community”.
MISSION:
Enhance the quality of life, the natural character and economic potential of our district through
sustainable management, service delivery and development opportunities.
The mission underpins the vision and also addresses the quadruple bottom line as follows:
Social:quality of life
Environment:- natural character
Economic:economic potential and sustainable development opportunities, which also leads into our
planning framework
Governance:- sustainable management and service delivery
The Plan also recognises and adopts a number of definitions as to the approach to financial sustainability,
business activities and community service obligations.
Page … 25
FINANCIAL SUSTAINABILITY:
A council’s long-term financial management performance and position is sustainable where planned
long-term service and infrastructure levels and standards are met without unplanned increases in rates
or disruptive cuts to services.
BUSINESS ACTIVITIES:
To be efficient, effective and sustainable in our approach to all responsibilities, services and activities,
while continuing to measure, question, review and develop methodologies and partnerships to ensure
our approach utilises best practice methods and up to date technologies and equipment.
COMMUNITY SERVICE OBLIGATION:
Community Service Obligations (CSO’s) are those services provided by council at a subsidised cost by
legislative requirement or agreement in order to meet social, equity, governance or environmental goals
associated with the council’s delivery of services.
Further, the Plan establishes the Governance and Management framework to be sustained by the Council along
with the Functional and Organisational Structure that integrates with Council‟s key department areas.
The Plan also refers to the Organisational Culture of the Council that has been developed around the primary
principle of Employer of First Choice and creates an environment that forms a basis for sustainability and
encourages innovation. The culture is based on the following set of guiding principles:
(1)
(2)
(3)
(4)
Worthwhile work
Taking control of achieving goals
Encouraging each other
Be involved and innovative
The Strategic Plan integrates a number of Council‟s Objectives with those of both the State Strategic Plan and
the State Infrastructure Plan. This is an important component of the Strategic Plan to ensure that Council‟s
direction is aligned with that of the State and maximises future opportunities for the obtaining of Grant Funding
for specific projects to implement Council‟s vision and direction.
In conclusion, the Strategic Plan is a critical document in ensuring that Council‟s and the Communities vision for
the future is both shared and implemented. The Strategic Plan is designed to keep the whole organisation
focussed on the big issues and the wider vision, which enables the day to day issues to be managed in an
environment based on the principles of accountability and freedom while maintaining the focus.
The Council, through a strategic approach, encourages everyone within its community and all stakeholders to
be involved and “come along for the ride” in achieving our ling-term sustainability and above all, our vision
Building a Better Community.
Page … 26
ANNUAL BUSINESS PLAN IMPLEMENTATION
The Annual Business Plan, which is prepared in accordance with the requirements of Section 123 of the Local
Government Act 1999, provides details as to the projects and activities of the Council for the year and how
these projects and activities integrate with the Measures and Corporate Objectives contained in the Strategic
Plan. The projects that were contained specifically within the Annual Business Plan are listed below, which also
advises as to the status of the projects as at 30th June 2008.
The status refers to whether the project was completed, deferred for future completion or carried forward for
inclusion within the 2008 / 2009 year.
It is noted from the table below that there are a number of projects that have been carried forward to the 2008 /
2009 year, primarily due to the fact that either the projects are very large and planning stages are still
proceeding or in fact, the project was being undertaken but had not been finalised by the reporting date.
Overall, the assessment of the performance of the Council for the year is satisfactory as a majority of the
projects committed to by Council were completed during the year and within their financial constraints.
CORPORATE AND COMMUNITY SERVICES
Major Buildings Upgrade
Berri Indoor Recreation and Community Centre
Information Technology – Continued Upgrade/replacement of computer
hardware
Records Management
Communications Investigations
Information Technology – Upgrade computer software, licensing agreements
Asset Management – Council & Community Land Review
Barmera Sporting & Community Facilities Planning
Asset Management – Berri Swimming Pool
INFRASTRUCTURE SERVICES
Regional Waste Management Strategy and Future Planning
Stormwater Drainage Study
Cemetery Upgrade Works - Furniture
Public Conveniences – Monash Park Toilet for Disabled
Public Conveniences – Vaughan Terrace Toilets Upgrade
Berri Riverfront Upgrade Work
Parks and Gardens – Glossop Pony Club, Irrigation Line
Glassey Park Additional Works – BBQ Shelters
Infrastructure Upgrades – Road Resealing
Infrastructure Upgrades – Road Resheeting/Rerubbling
Infrastructure Upgrades – Road Construction
Infrastructure Upgrades – Footpath / Gopher Routes Construction
Plant Operations – Plant and Machinery and Small Plant Purchases
Cemetery Upgrade Works – Plaques & Memorial Crosses
Lake Bonney Foreshore Future Planning
Berri Riverfront upgrade work - Fencing
Parks and Gardens – Monash Adventure Park additional works
Glassey Park – Additional Works – Top dressing playing field / tree planting
Page … 27
STATUS
In progress
First Stage Consultations
In progress
In progress
In progress
In progress
In progress
Deferred
In progress
On going / Completed
On going / Completed
On going / Completed
Completed
Ongoing
Deferred
Completed
Carried Forward
Completed
Completed
Completed
Completed
Completed
On going
Completed
Completed
Completed
Deferred
Quarries – Stoney Ridge Sand Quarry Fencing
Road Maintenance – Pascoe Terrace Design
Road Maintenance – Jury Road Design
Relocation Bitumen Tank
Completed
Deferred
Deferred
Completed
ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES
Waste Water Reuse Project – Construction Phase
Dog Pound – Future Planning and Design
Waste Water Management – ReUse Scheme Irrigation Trial
Berri Eastern Approach Urban Design and Infrastructure Study
Planning Strategy – Regional Tourism Plan Amendment Report
Berri West Residential Infrastructure Study - Implementation
Asbestos Hazard Removal – Council Buildings
Demolition – House Coneybeer Street
Asbestos Audit and Register
Completed
Completed
On going
Completed
Withdrawn
On going
On going
Completed
Completed
EXECUTIVE SERVICES
Future Direction Planning – Town Centre Renewal Project
Governance – Policy Development and Reviews
Strategic Planning – Future Direction Plan, Management Plans and Service
Standards
Long Term Financial Management Plan and Infrastructure and Asset
Management Plan
Lake Bonney Youth Camp Land Development
Page … 28
On going / Carried forward
In progress / Carried forward
On going
In progress / Carried forward
In progress / Carried forward
STRATEGIC PLANNING FRAMEWORK
IMPLEMENTATION
MEASURING, REVIEW
OPERATIONAL PLANS
STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT
PLANS
The following Strategic Planning framework ensures integration of Council‟s Strategic Direction with the day to
day operations of the Council.
STRATEGIC PLAN
FUTURE DIRECTION
PLAN
MANAGEMENT
PLANS
COMMUNITY SERVICE OBLIGATIONS STANDARDS
OPERATIONAL/DEPARTMENT
PLANS
ANNUAL BUSINESS PLANS –
ANNUAL BUDGET
IMPLEMENTATION, REPORTING, MEASURING AND
REVIEW PLAN
Page … 29
SCORECARDS / MEASURES:
To implement the balance scorecard approach in strategic planning, the following scorecard areas provide the
basis to council‟s corporate objectives and which also provide the basis for performance measurement. The
scorecards and corporate objectives also reach across the department boundaries of the council, with the
departments being:
Executive Services
Corporate and Community Services
Environmental Services
Infrastructure Services
The eight scorecards areas are listed below with an explanatory statement.
Social and Community:
How our decisions contribute to and affect the community‟s quality of life through
effective management of community facilities and how we manage social and
community consultation, participation and inclusion.
Environment and Heritage: How we manage and preserve the natural character, environment and heritage.
Economic Development:
How we manage and encourage development opportunities while ensuring
sustainable development principles are implemented.
Governance and Finance:
How we manage the governance and financial affairs of the council to ensure
accountability, sustainability, compliance and transparency.
Infrastructure:
How we manage our infrastructure to ensure safe and reliable access to
services, facilities and property to meet community needs.
Learning and Growth:
How we manage training, learning, personal development and innovation to
encourage organisational growth.
Customer Satisfaction:
How we manage customer satisfaction in relation to service delivery,
communication and public relations.
Internal Processes:
How we manage and review internal processes to ensure efficient, effective and
sustainable service delivery methods through the use of up to date technology
and procedures.
The above scorecards are integrated with the corporate objectives that further reach across all department
areas and which provide a basis for all Management Plans, Policies, Procedures, Operational Plans, Annual
Business Plans, Annual Budgets, and importantly how we measure and report our performance.
Page … 30
CORPORATE OBJECTIVES:
To build on the eight scorecards, the following are corporate objectives that integrate with the scorecards and
drive the vision and mission of the council. The objectives will form the basis of everything the council does
from management to day-to-day operations.
SOCIAL AND COMMUNITY:
SC1
SC2
SC3
SC4
Encourage community participation and active inclusion in council decisions and activities
Enhance lifestyle, quality of life and social development
Ensure effective management of community facilities to meet community needs that includes
rationalisation, accessibility and fit for purpose
Encourage youth to be involved in council decision making processes and future planning for youth
facilities and activities via the YACU Committee
ENVIRONMENT AND HERITAGE:
EH1
EH2
EH3
EH4
Encourage the efficient and effective management and use of energy, water and other natural
resources in the community and council operations through district wide strategies and council policies
Implement strategies and establish facilities and services that ensure effective waste management,
recycling and minimisation practices that align with Regional and State Strategies and principles
Ensure development principles are established and implemented to enhance the preservation of our
environment and heritage to achieve ecologically sustainable development
Implement strategies and practices for the reuse of waste including water, green waste and other
reusable waste streams
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT:
ED1
ED2
ED3
Encourage, facilitate and secure private and public funding and investment in the establishment of
infrastructure to support development opportunities
Encourage and facilitate economic and sustainable development by promoting opportunities and
securing alliances or partnerships with the private and public sector and Regional Development
Corporation
To be involved and assist with the promotion and development of tourism activities within the district
and region, via the Visitor Information Centre and sponsorship of major events and icons, and which
involves integration with local businesses and tourism operators
GOVERNANCE AND FINANCIAL:
GF1
GF2
GF3
GF4
GF5
Ensure transparent, accountable, compliant and sustainable governance through open measurement
and performance reporting against established criteria
Ensure long term financial management through the development of key management goals, principles,
measures, ratios and performance indicators that integrate with long term asset management planning,
community service obligations, service delivery and core business activities
Implement training and development programs for Elected Members, Executive and Management
employees to ensure best practice governance and financial principles are implemented and adhered to
Ensure the continued development and implementation of OHS&W policies, programs, actions and
training to provide for a safe working environment
Ensure the continued development and implementation of Risk Management Plans, programs and
actions to mitigate against risks in the community
Page … 31
INFRASTRUCTURE:
IN1
IN2
IN3
IN4
Establish and implement long term infrastructure maintenance, replacement, rehabilitation and
development principles, priority criteria and programs to meet community needs and expansion
Develop strategies that integrate with economic development objectives that assist with supporting the
development of new and existing opportunities
Explore and secure funding opportunities that assist with the development and replacement of
infrastructure and implementation of developed programs and forward plans
Ensure that infrastructure programs and forward plans integrate with and adhere to developed Financial
Management principles
LEARNING AND GROWTH:
LG1
LG2
LG3
Maintain and enhance a positive culture that is based on the “Employer of First Choice” principle that
contributes to achieving organisational growth
Maintain and enhance employees‟ skills, knowledge, personal development and work satisfaction
Maintain and enhanced information management and flow, while encouraging innovation
CUSTOMER SATISFACTION:
CS1
CS2
Maintain and enhance presence, open communication, civic leadership, advocacy and involve
stakeholders to achieve sound public relations
Ensure efficient and effective service delivery and customer service to meet community needs that
integrates with the community service obligations
INTERNAL PROCESSES:
IP1
IP2
IP3
Develop and implement community service obligations and service standards for council services to
ensure effective, efficient and sustainable delivery methods
Develop and implement a services review program to ensure that up to date technology and procedures
are utilised, and that integrates with employee training and development programs
Improve productivity, processes and increase infrastructure and resource capacity
Page … 32
COMMUNITY CONSULTATION:
Council continues to review and implement innovative approaches to consulting with its‟ Community and in
particular, engaging the community to assist in decisions that are made for the future as part of its‟ Strategic
Management Planning framework.
The consultation method utilised by Council include both in written form, i.e. documentation that is forwarded to
the Community, and in a more personal face-to-face form at either arranged Forums or Council‟s initiative of
“Council on the Couch”.
The various forms of Community Consultation are continually used to consult with the community on the
preparation of its‟ Budget and Annual Business Plan, review of Strategic Plan, development of Key Management
Plans under the Strategic Planning framework, and various Policies that either require consultation under the
Local Government Act 1999 or are consulted on due to their impact on the community.
An example of a consultation format is “Council on the Couch” which is operated within the Riverland Plaza, and
provides an opportunity for key Senior Staff and Elected Members to speak freely with the community on any
particular issues of concern or strategic matters of consultation that is being undertaken at that point in time.
The “Council on the Couch” concept is also operated once a year at the Riverland Field Days which is an
extremely successful method communication between Council and the community.
In addition to the above, Council produces a Newsletter that informs the community of some of the more
intricate operations and details of Council and to continue to provide general information on matters of
importance particularly at certain times of the year regarding matters such as dog control, bushfire prevention
etc. A “Council column” was also placed in local newspapers circulating the district that briefly advised of
Council‟s current activities and matters of interest to the Community.
In summary, the Council makes a concerted effort to continue to consult and engage its‟ community and is
continuing to broaden the consultation processes. This also includes involvement of more community people on
Committees of Council that are dealing with specific issues where persons in the community have particular
interests. This assists in ensuring that the community is also involved in making decisions particularly on key
projects or the management / maintenance of key infrastructure such as cemeteries.
“Council on the Couch” Public Consultation conducted at the Riverland Plaza
Page … 33
COMPLIANCE:
REGISTERS, CODES, POLICIES AND PROCEDURES:
(REQUIRED TO BE KEPT UNDER THE LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT AND/OR LOCAL GOVERNMENT
ELECTIONS ACT 1999)
REGISTERS:
The Common Seal Register (Sec. 38)
Register of Interests - Members (Section 64)
Register of Allowances and Benefits (Section 79)
Delegations Register (Section 103)
Register of Remuneration, Salaries and Benefits (Employees) (Section 105)
Register of Interest (Staff) (Section 111-119)
Register of Community Land (Section 207)
Register of Public Roads (Section 231)
Register of Approvals for Use of Community Land (Section 242)
Register of By-laws
Register of Gifts
Register of Fees and Charges
Freedom of Information
Declarations by Elected Members
LIST OF THE CODES OF CONDUCT / PRACTICE:
(Note: These Codes etc. are available on Council’s Website)
Access to Meetings - Code of Practice (Policy A10)
Code of Conduct for Council Employees (Policy C17)
Code of Conduct for Council Members (Policy C18)
Confidentiality Provisions - Code of Practice (Policy C19.5)
Consultation Policy (Policy C20)
Contracting and Tendering Policy (Policy C22)
Council Decisions Procedure - Review of (Policy C62)
Order Making Policy (Policy O20)
Rating Policy (Policy R22)
Page … 34
COUNCIL POLICIES AND BYLAWS
The Berri Barmera Council has developed a Policy Manual which is continually updated to reflect changes in
circumstances or if a new issue arises.
Council's Policies and Bylaws are listed hereunder:
General Policies and Bylaws
ABANDONED VEHICLES (Refer L.G. Act Sec. 748)
ACCESS TO MEETINGS - Code of Practice
ACCOUNTING POLICIES
ADVERTISING ON FOOTPATHS
AGENDAS - COUNCIL AND COMMITTEE MEETING
BADGE DAYS, & DOOR KNOCK APPEALS
BY-LAWS: No. 1 - PERMITS & PENALTIES
No. 2 - DOGS
No. 6 - COUNCIL LAND
BY-LAWS - PENALTIES
CEMETERIES
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
CITIZENSHIP CEREMONIES
CODE OF CONDUCT FOR COUNCIL EMPLOYEES
CODE OF CONDUCT FOR COUNCIL MEMBERS
COMMUNITY FACILITIES LEASING POLICY
COMMUNITY GRANTS POLICY
COMPETITION PRINCIPLES - Complaints Process
CONFIDENTIALITY PROVISIONS - Code of Practice
CONSULTATION POLICY
CONTRACTING, TENDERING & PURCHASING POLICY
CONTRACTORS
CONTRACTS - CURRENT
COUNCIL COMMITTEES
COUNCIL DECISIONS PROCEDURE, REVIEW OF
COUNCIL REPRESENTATIVES & DELEGATES
COUNCIL WORKS‟ VEHICLES - Identification
COUNTRY FIRES ACT - BBQ Areas
COUNTRY FIRE SERVICE - Council Employees
COUNTRY FIRE SERVICE - Use of Council Plant
CROSSING PLACES
DELEGATION OF AUTHORITY - Council Officers
DEPUTY MAYOR
DOG CONTROL
DWELLINGS - Secondhand Transportable
ELECTED MEMBERS - Allowances & Support Policy
ELECTION SIGNS
ELECTIONS - CASUAL VACANCIES
FLAMMABLE UNDERGROWTH
FOOTPATH - Construction
GOVERNMENT WORK PROGRAMS
HOUSE NUMBERING
IMMUNISATIONS - Service Policy
Page … 35
A10
A15
A20
A25
B10
B30
B35
B55
B65
C10
C11
C15
C17
C18
C18.5
C18.75
C19
C19.5
C20
C22
C25
C30
C60
C62
C65
C75
C80
C90
C95
C100
D15
D20
D25
D50
E10
E20
E30
F20
F25
G10
H15
I12
General Polices and ByLaws Cont’d.
IMMUNISATIONS - Standing Drug Orders
LIBRARY COLLECTION DEVELOPMENT POLICY
MEDIA STATEMENTS
NAMING OF ROADS
NOVATED LEASING OF MOTOR VEHICLES
OHS & W - Health & Safety Policy
OHS & W - Consultation Policy
ORDER MAKING POLICY
PERMIT PARKING POLICY
PLANT & MACHINERY - Emergency Use Of
PLANT & MACHINERY - Community Use Of
PURCHASING, HIRING & LEASE OF EQUIPMENT
PURCHASING - Local Preference
PURCHASING - Orders
RATE REBATE POLICY
RATING POLICY STATEMENT
REFUSE COLLECTION - Domestic 240 Litre Bins
RISK MANAGEMENT POLICY
ROADS - Installation of Pipes, etc.
ROADS - Sealing Properties
ROADSIDE TRADING POLICY
SPORT & RECREATION GRANTS
SPORTING GROUNDS - USE OF
STATE EMERGENCY SERVICE - Council Employees
STREET TREES
TRAINING - Council Members Training & Development
TREES - Rural Areas - Road Intersections
VALUATION OF LAND UNDER ROADS
VOLUNTEER POLICY
WORKS CONTRACT
Page … 36
I15
L10
M10
N10
N20
O10
O15
O20
P10
P20
P25
P35
P40
P45
R21
R22
R31
R43
R45
R51
R55
S12
S15
S25
S30
T10
T30
V05
V10
W10
MEMBERS ALLOWANCES:
The following allowances are paid to Elected Members:
Mayor
Deputy Mayor
Councillors
$25,000
$ 8,000
$ 6,000
Presiding Members of Standing Committees
Presiding Members of Standing Committees
$ 7,000 (From 1 July to 31 October 2007)
$ 6,000 (From 1 November 2007 to 30 June 2008)
Page … 37
ELECTOR REPRESENTATION REVIEW:
Under the requirements of the Local Government Act 1999, Councils representation must comply with a
specified quota tolerance. The Berri Barmera Council is represented by a Mayor and 10 Councillors. The total
number of electors in the district of The Berri Barmera Council is as follows:
House of Assembly as provided by the State Electoral Commission
Council‟s Supplementary Roll
Total:
Councils‟ representation quota is therefore 749 electors per elected member.
7469
773
8242
Pursuant to section 12(13)(a) of the Act, the Electoral Commissioner has certified that the most recent review
undertaken by Council satisfies the requirements of Section 12. The representation arrangements are as
follows:
Retain the status quo of a Mayor and 10 Councillors; and
The Council area will not be divided into wards, thereby requiring all members to represent
the council area as a whole.
Also, in accordance with the Local Government Act 1999, it is necessary for The Berri Barmera Council to
undertake a periodical review of its composition and elector representation arrangements.
During the process for conducting the review, all electors will have the opportunity to make submissions on the
representation and ward boundary structure of the Council. The first phase of consultation will be conducted
with the preparation of a public consultation report that outlines the current status of Councils ward boundary
structure and representation. This report will also provide details on options under the Local Government Act
that can be considered during the process. For example these include the option of the review of numbers of
elected members. Any person making a written submission can make a verbal presentation to a committee of
Council appointed for the purposes of overseeing the review process.
The second phase of consultation involves the preparation of options based on consideration of submissions
received during the first phase of consultation and Council discussion. The report prepared as part of the
second phase of consultation will be specific to the options provided for consideration and provide relevant
details. Again, any person forwarding a written submission will be afforded the opportunity to present that
submission to the appointed committee.
The elector representation with respect to the Council area is detailed in the following table.
LOCAL GOVERNMENT REPRESENTATION: RATIOS SA 2007-08
(Information supplied by the Local Government Association)
COUNCIL
Alexandrina
Barossa Council
Berri Barmera
Copper Coast
Light Regional
Loxton Waikerie
Murray Bridge
Port Pirie
Victor Harbor
Wattle Range
Yorke Peninsula
ELECTED MEMBERS
Including Mayor
ELECTORS
RATIO
12
14
11
11
11
13
10
11
11
12
12
22,404
17,211
8,242
12,410
10,364
9,187
14,591
13,307
14,738
10,455
14,601
1867
1229
749
1128
942
706
1459
1209
1339
871
1216
Page … 38
COMPETITIVE TENDERING / COST EFFECTIVE DELIVERY OF SERVICE:
The Council utilises Contractors to provide specific services. During the year Council's Waste Management
operations continued with a private contractor carrying out the solid waste pick-up and waste depot operations.
Bitumen laying on roads was tendered and contractors were used for kerb laying, carting of materials, channel
digging and tree pruning and removal.
Council will continue to look at improving service delivery options into the future to ascertain the best options
available and the standards of services provided.
In relation to local purchase, Council has decided on a weighting of 10% for local purchases (i.e. throughout the
Riverland).
Contracts are awarded on a tender / quotation basis as Councils commitment towards providing cost effective
services to its community and providing the opportunity for competitive tendering. Resulting from this approach
by Council, significant amounts of Council‟s operations are contracted out to minimise Council‟s requirement to
provide expensive plant and equipment and to maintain a relatively small workforce to reduce overheads.
The table below outlines the contract work awarded through tendering / quotation processes for specific projects
and functions of the Council.
CONTRACTORS 2007/2008
Audit Contract (External)
Barmera Recreation Building Maintenance
Barmera Recreation Centre Management
Berri Library Maintenance
Building Service Contract
Council Office Building Maintenance
Debt Collection Costs
Effluent Drainage Maintenance
Footpath Construction
Garbage Collection
Garbage Disposal
Halls Building Maintenance
Immunization Maintenance
Information Technology
Riverland Animal and Plant Control Board
Public Convenience Management
Riverland Wine Festival Co-ordinator Contract
Sealed Road Construction
Sport Recreation Maintenance
Swimming Pool Management
Town Planning Consultants Fees
Town Planning Legal Fees
TOTAL
10,340.00
4,252.00
48,300.00
5,026.00
34,872.00
27,471.00
23,065.00
233,720.00
110,720.00
394,158.00
84,283.00
80,683.00
3,549.00
48,169.00
121,881.00
95,382.00
19,000.00
204,599.00
52,562.00
80,201.00
7,536.00
10,019.00
1,699,788.00
Page … 39
DELEGATIONS OF POWER:
To assist in the decision making process of Council, the Council has delegated responsibilities and powers to
the Chief Executive Officer and/or specific committees of Council. These delegations are reviewed on an
annual basis and are available for public inspection free of charge at the Council Office.
GRIEVANCE PROCEDURES:
In relation to grievance procedures and review of Council‟s decisions, the Council has formally adopted a
procedure for internal review of Council decisions as per the requirements of Section 270 of the Local
Government Act. The procedure provides a mechanism for persons grieved by a Council decision or a decision
made by an officer and sets out the procedures for application for the review of the decision. Further, the
procedure states the following as its primary principles:
When a complaint is received it shall be referred to the Chief Executive Officer for internal investigation in the
first instance.
In the event that the Chief Executive Officer is of the opinion that the complaint requires an independent
investigation then the Chief Executive Officer shall refer the complaint to the independent panel established by
the Local Government Association.
Action: Within five working days from receipt of the complaint:
*
*
*
*
*
record the complaint in the complaints register
acknowledge the complaint
advise the complainant who will be dealing with the complaint
provide the complainant with a copy of the policy
provide the complainant with a copy of the complaints process
Within twenty working days from receipt of the complaint:
*
*
*
investigate the complaint
advise the complainant of the result of the investigation and any corrective action taken
record the outcome in the complaints register
In the event that the complaint does or is likely to take longer than twenty days to resolve, a deadline for
resolution of the complaint will be set with the complainant.
If the complainant is not satisfied with the advice given and requests a review of the outcome and the complaint
was originally handled internally the complaint will be referred to a person from the panel established by the
Local Government Association.
Where a complaint has been addressed through the Local Government process the complainant may refer the
complaint to the Competition Commissioner.
Page … 40
COUNCIL AND COMMITTEE MEETINGS / MATTERS CONSIDERED IN CONFIDENCE:
Further to Councils decision making structure, there were a number of occasions during the financial year that
Council considered matters in confidence pursuant to Section 90 of the Local Government Act 1999. During
the year there were 12 Ordinary and 2 Special Meetings of Council and 33 Committee Meetings.
The following table contains details of the Council / Committee Meetings.
Particulars
No. of
Meetings
Council Meetings
14
Total
Resolutions
Passed
363
Executive Services
Committee
Corporate & Community
Services Committee
Infrastructure Services
Committee
Environmental Services
Committee
Development Assessment
Panel
Waste Water Re-Use
Project Committee
Lake Bonney
Redevelopment Advisory
Committee
Berri Riverfront
Development Advisory
Committee
5
29
3
5
22
Nil
Pursuant to Sections:
90(3)(k) - Tenders
90(3)(b)(i) / 90(3)(d)(i) Commercial in Confidence
90(3)(a) and (e) – Personal
Affairs
90(3)(h) - Unreasonable
disclosure of info contrary to
public interest / legal advice
90(3)(b)(i) / 90(3)(d)(i) Commercial in Confidence
N/A
4
30
Nil
N/A
4
20
Nil
N/A
9
43
Nil
N/A
3
11
Nil
N/A
2
8
Nil
N/A
1
4
Nil
N/A
Confidential
Reason for Confidentiality
Resolutions
18
At the time Council resolves to consider a matter in confidence, Council complies with its access to Council
Meetings, Council Committees and Council Documents Code. Also, Council specifies a time for the item to
remain confidential with delegated power provided to the Chief Executive Officer to remove the confidentiality
provision provided the item has satisfactorily been completed or the need for the item to remain confidential has
been reviewed.
FREEDOM OF INFORMATION STATEMENT / INFORMATION STATEMENT:
During the 2007/2008 financial year the Berri Barmera Council received one application under the provisions of
the Freedom of Information Act. As at the 30th June the matter was still being processed.
Page … 41
INFORMATION STATEMENT (GENERAL)
The following information statement is published by the Berri Barmera Council in accordance with the
requirements of Schedule 4 of the Local Government Act 1999.
Council’s Role
The Council‟s role is to provide for the government and management of its area at the local level. Section 6 of
the Local Government Act 1999, defines the role of Council as follows:
To act as a representative, informed and responsible decision-maker in the interests of its community;
and
To provide and co-ordinate various public services and facilities and to develop its community and
resources in a socially just and ecologically sustainable manner; and
To encourage and develop initiatives within its community for improving the quality of life of the
community; and
To represent the interests of its community to the wider community; and
To exercise, perform and discharge the powers, functions and duties of local government under the
Local Government Act and other Acts in relation to the area for which it is constituted.
The role of the Principal Member and Members of Council
The role of the principal member (Mayor) and members of Council is defined in Sections 58 and 59 of the Local
Government Act 1999.
(1) The role of the principal member is:
(a) to preside at meetings of the Council;
(b) if requested, to provide advice to the Chief Executive Officer between Council meetings on the
implementation of a decision of the Council;
(c) to act as the principal spokesperson of the Council
(d) to exercise other functions of the Council as the Council determines
(e) to carry out the civic and ceremonial duties of the office of principal member
(2) The role of members of Council is
(a) as a member of the governing body of the council (i) to participate in the deliberations and civic activities of the Council;
(ii) to keep the Council‟s objectives and policies under review to ensure that they are
appropriate and effective;
(iii) to keep Council‟s resource allocation, expenditure and activities, and the efficiency
and effectiveness of its service delivery under review;
(b) as a person elected to the Council - to represent the interests of residents and
ratepayers, to provide community leadership and guidance, and to facilitate
communication between the community and the Council.
Activities that Council provides or is associated with (financial or otherwise)
The activities that Council provides or is associated with are:- public functions, donations to local organisations,
dog control, fire prevention, animal and plant control, health inspections, immunisation program, cemetery,
public toilets, garbage collection and disposal, District Halls, Community Library and Information Centre, parks
and gardens, play equipment, boat ramps, ovals, building and development control, road maintenance and
construction, footpaths, kerbs and guttering, storm water control, bike tracks, street lighting, tourism, private
Page … 42
works, industrial estate, support re loans to sporting clubs, leasing of Council owned property to community
organisations, etc.
Agendas and Minutes
Agendas for all Council and Committee meetings are placed on public display not less than three days prior to
meetings, minutes being made available for perusal within five days of a meeting. Agendas and Minutes for
Council and DAP Meetings are also available on Council‟s website. The timeframes for the availability of
Council agendas and minutes is in accordance with the Local Government Act and Regulations.
Delegations
To assist in the decision making process of Council, the Council has delegated responsibilities and powers to
the Chief Executive Officer and or specific committees of Council. These delegations are reviewed on an
annual basis. The delegations are available for public inspection free of charge at the Council Office.
Public Participation
Members of the public have a number of opportunities to put forward their views on particular issues before
Council. These include:Deputations - with the permission of the Mayor, a member of the public can address the Council or a
Committee, personally or on behalf of a group of residents.
Presentations to Council - with prior notification and arrangement with the Mayor, a member of the public can
address the Council for a period of time determined by the Mayor on any issue relevant to Council.
Petitions - written petitions can be addressed to the Council on any issue within the Council‟s jurisdiction.
Written Requests - a member of the public can write to the Council on any Council Policy, activity or service.
Elected Members - members of the public can contact their Elected Members of Council to discuss any issue
relevant to Council.
Community Consultation
The Council has adopted a Public Consultation Policy in accordance with Section 50 of the Local Government
Act 1999. Though the Act specifics that Councils must have public consultation polices in place for mandatory
consultation with the public on specific issues, the policy is also used for general consultation with the public on
other issues at the Councils discretion.
In addition there are also opportunities for the public to attend public meetings or information forums on certain
issues or to complete a survey on specific issues.
The Council is also required to consult with the public on other matters as a requirement of relevant legislation.
For example there are requirements within the Development Act, which require Council to advertise certain
development applications comment.
Page … 43
Access to Council Documents
A list of documents available for inspection or copy are listed below, with the relevant fee per page or entry
listed, should a copy be required.
FEES AND CHARGES
PARTICULARS
CURRENT AS AT 01/7/06
GST INCLUSIVE
COUNCIL DOCUMENTS ETC.
Sale of Minutes / Agendas
Annual Financial Statements
Annual Report
Budget Report
Search Fees - Standard (8 days)
Search Fees – Urgent
Search Fees - Rates Only
Extract from Assessment Book
Council Development Plan
3.00
11.00
11.00
20.00
30.00
40.00
10.00
10.00
10.00
(Where applicable) $
A comprehensive listing of Council‟s Fees and Charges is available on the website.
Documents are available for public inspection at the Principal Office of Council between 8.30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Monday to Friday (excluding Public Holidays). Members of the public may also purchase copies of these
documents at Council‟s Principal Office.
The Council also readily provides information to the public, with Council Agendas and Minutes being circulated
widely to the local media, and also available at the Berri Library and Information Centre, Barmera
Library/Customer Service Centre and at the Council‟s Principal Office. These documents are also available on
Council‟s website.
Amendment of Council Records
A member of the public may request a correction to any information relating to them that is incomplete,
incorrect, misleading or out of date.
To gain access to Council records a member of the public must indicate in writing the documents required to be
inspected and complete a Freedom of Information Request Form.
Other information requests
Council readily provides information requested by the public. Requests for any other information will be
considered in accordance with the Freedom of Information provisions of the Local Government Act. Under this
legislation an application fee and a search fee must be forwarded with a completed request for access form as
provided by Council that satisfies the requirements of Section 13 of the Freedom of Information Act, 1991,
unless the applicant is granted an exemption.
Page … 44
Should the applicant require copies of any documents inspected pursuant to a Freedom of Information request,
legislative charges will apply.
Freedom of Information Request Forms and other requests regarding the access to Council documents must be
addressed to:
Freedom of Information Officer
Berri Barmera Council
19 Wilson Street (or PO Box 229)
BERRI SA 5343.
Response to applications will be within the statutory thirty (30) days from the date of receipt of the properly
completed Freedom of Information Request Form, together with the application and appropriate fees.
Page … 45
NATIONAL COMPETITION POLICY:
Pursuant to the Government Business Enterprises (Competition) Act 1996 and the revised Clause 7 Statement
published in September 2002, the following information is provided:
1:
Significant Business Activities
Category One
Category Two
-
2:
Complaints Mechanism
Council has adopted a entitled “Competition Principles - complaints Process”
which reads as follows:
Nil
Nil
(Policy C19),
When a complaint is received it shall be referred to the Chief Executive Officer for internal investigation
in the first instance.
In the event that the Chief Executive Officer is of the opinion that the complaint requires an independent
investigation then the Chief Executive Officer shall refer the complaint to the independent panel
established by the Local Government Association.
Action : Within five working days from receipt of the complaint:
*
*
*
*
*
record the complaint in the complaints register
acknowledge the complaint
advise the complainant who will be dealing with the complaint
provide the complainant with a copy of the policy
provide the complainant with a copy of the complaints process
Within twenty working days from receipt of the complaint:
*
*
*
investigate the complaint
advise the complainant of the result of the investigation and any corrective action taken
record the outcome in the complaints register
In the event that the complaint does or is likely to take longer than twenty days to resolve a deadline for
resolution of the complaint will be set with the complainant.
If the complainant is not satisfied with the advice given and requests a review of the outcome and the
complaint was originally handled internally the complaint will be referred to a person from the panel
established by the Local Government Association.
Where a complaint has been addressed through the Local Government process the complainant may
refer the complaint to the Competition Commissioner.
Page … 46
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT:
THE BERRI TOWN CENTRE RENEWAL PROJECT
Although it remains some way from fruition, the Berri Town Centre Renewal Project achieved several important
milestones this year, including:the purchase of land that will be required to relocate No 1 and No 2 ovals;
the agreement of the Minister for Crown Lands to consider the sale of the existing ovals to Council;
the commissioning of a report into the feasibility of jointly developing a new recreation centre with
DECS; and
the first release of the overall concept to the community for feedback.
The community‟s response to the concept was generally positive, although there were naturally concerns about
a range of issues – most of which will be addressed as planning progresses. The key issues however were the
cost – and who‟s going to pay – and the future of the Wade Street War Memorial.
Both of these matters are now under review and Council expects to shortly receive a report addressing each.
Subject to that report, and to both further discussions with the Minister for Crown Lands and further community
feedback, Council hopes to be in a position to decide whether to proceed with the project by the end of this
financial year.
Page … 47
FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT:
The amendments to the Local Government Act 1999 that came into force on 25 th January 2007 require Council
to “state the measures (financial and non financial) that are to be used to monitor and assess the performance
of council over the relevant period.”
The following set of financial indicators are effectively a roadmap to assist in the steering of Council‟s financial
performance and sustainability.
Indicator 1 – Operating Surplus
(the difference between the day to day income and expenses for the period)
An operating surplus (or deficit) arises when operating revenue exceeds (or is less than) operating expenses for
a period. A Council‟s long term financial sustainability is dependent upon ensuring that, on average, its
expenses are less than its revenues. If a Council is not generating an operating surplus in most periods then it
is effectively living beyond its means and is unsustainable. It will be inevitable the Council will be faced with a
financial shock at some stage and be forced to either substantially raise its rates or not replace its assets and
thus provide the community with a lower standard of service.
Indicator 2 – Operating Surplus Ratio
(by what percentage does the major controllable income source vary from day to day expenses)
The operating surplus ratio is the operating surplus (or deficit) expressed as a percentage of general and other
rates net of rate rebates and revenues from the NRM levy.
A positive ratio indicates the percentage of rates available to fund capital expenditure. A negative ratio indicates
the percentage increase required in rates to achieve a break-even operating result. If in the event of a positive
ratio and that amount is not being required for that particular year, it can be held over for the future capital works
or can be used to reduce existing debt.
Indicator 3 – Net Financial Liabilities
(what is owed to others less money you already have or is owed to you)
Net financial liabilities is total liabilities less financial assets.
Net financial liabilities is a broader and more appropriate measure of indebtedness than the level of borrowings
as it includes all of Council‟s financial assets and obligations including employee entitlements and creditors.
Often too much focus is placed on the level of a Council‟s borrowings without also considering the available
financial assets (ie. money in the bank). However before considering an increase in its net debt a Council must
recognise that interest associated with the debt will impact negatively on its operating result. A council‟s
indebtedness should be managed to ensure its liabilities and associated costs can be met comfortably from
operating revenues.
Indicator 4 – Net Financial Liabilities Ratio
(how significant is the net amount owed compared with income)
This ratio indicates the extent to which net financial liabilities of a council could be met by its operating revenue.
Where the ratio is falling over time indicates that the council‟s capacity to meet its financial obligations from
operating revenue is strengthening. However a council with a healthy operating surplus may decide to allow its
net liabilities ratio to increase in order to provide additional services to its community through the acquisition of
additional assets without detracting from its financial sustainability.
Page … 48
Indicator 5 – Interest Cover Ratio
(how much income is used in paying interest on loans)
This ratio indicates how much of Council‟s operating revenues are committed to interest expense. There is no
right or wrong ratio but a council must be aware to manage this ratio within a range it is comfortable with.
Indicator 6 – Asset Sustainability Ratio
(are assets being replaced at the rate they are wearing out?)
This ratio indicates whether Council is renewing or replacing existing non-financial assets at the same rate the
assets are wearing out. It is calculated by measuring capital expenditure on renewal or replacement of assets
relative to the recorded rate of depreciation of assets for the same period.
If capital expenditure on renewing or replacing existing assets is at least equal to depreciation on average over
time then a Council is ensuring the value of its assets is maintained. If capital expenditure on existing assets is
less than depreciation it is likely it is under spending on renewal and replacement of assets and will eventually
be confronted with failed assets and significant renewal and replacement costs that cannot be accommodated
for within a short period.
Indicator 7 – Asset Consumption Ratio
(the average proportion of „as new condition‟ left in assets)
This ratio shows the written down current value of Council‟s depreciable assets relative to their „as new‟ value in
up to date prices. This ratio highlights the aged condition of Council‟s assets. If a council is responsibly
maintaining and renewing and replacing its assets then the ratio would be relatively high. However, it makes no
sense financially to replace perfectly serviceable assets just because they are old. Providing a council is
operating sustainably it will be in a strong financial position to be able to fund the future renewal or replacement
of assets when necessary.
FINANCIAL INDICATORS – THE BERRI BARMERA COUNCIL
Indicator 1
Operating Surplus(Deficit)
Indicator 2
Operating Surplus Ratio
Indicator 3
Net Financial Liabilities
Indicator 4
Net Financial Liabilities Ratio
Indicator 5
Interest Cover Ratio
Indicator 6
Asset Sustainability Ratio
Indicator 7
Asset Consumption Ratio
2006/2007 Financial
Statements (audited)
2007/2008 Financial
Statements (audited)
(1,828,201)
(1,687,635)
(28%)
(23%)
(1,740,977)
2,550,082
17%
23%
0.1%
0.1%
6%
21%
59%
64%
Page … 49
CORPORATE AND COMMUNITY SERVICES
CORPORATE:
Community Land Management Plans
Rating and Valuations - Rating Policy for the Year 2007 / 2008
COMMUNITY:
Youth
Library
Transport
Council Events
Berri Visitor Information Centre
Riverland Sport and Recreation
Council Properties
Page … 50
CORPORATE:
The Corporate and Community Services Department is responsible for the
management and operations of the following functions of Council:
Ms Mary Deakin
Deputy Chief Executive
Officer
Policies and Procedures
Legislative Compliance
Council / Committee Meetings
By Law Administration
Rates and property
Grants Commission
Insurance
Tourism
Business Development
Cemeteries Administration
Open Space Administration
Debtors / Creditors
Payroll
Information Technology
Records Management
Library
Community Transport
Youth
Emergency Services
Culture and Heritage
Community / Social Development
Sport & Recreation Administration
Aged Persons
Medical and Health Services
Council Properties Administration
Customer Service
Council Support / Administration
Risk Management
Contracts, Leases, Licenses and Permits
To effectively implement the management and operations of the Department, the following Staffing Structure
applies:
Deputy Chief Executive Officer
Property Manager
(1)
Library / CSC
Manager (1)
Community
Development
Officer (1)
Page … 51
Visitor Information
Centre Manager
(1)
CORPORATE:
COMMUNITY LAND MANAGEMENT PLANS:
Pursuant to Section 196 of the Local Government Act 1999, the Council is required to prepare, adopt and
maintain management plans for all of the land classified as community land. The preparation of these plans
requires extensive community consultation and establishes the framework for which land and community
facilities controlled by Council are managed in the future.
The Council has satisfied the provisions of the Act with the preparation and adoption of key Community Land
Management Plans and is now in the process of reviewing the relevance of the Management Plans to ensure
that the Plans reflect the activities for which the Community Land facilities are utilised.
This process will be conducted over a two year period which is being linked to a total review of Council‟s land
and community assets to ensure that these assets are being utilised and do not duplicate services being
provided to the community.
Page … 52
RATING POLICY FOR THE YEAR 2007 / 2008
INTRODUCTION
The Rating Policy is prepared in accordance with Section 171 of the Local Government Act 1999, referred to as
the “Act”. The Policy is prepared and adopted each financial year in conjunction with the adoption of Council‟s
Annual Business Plan.
A copy of the Policy is made available to the community at the Council‟s principal office and at the customer
service outlets as listed below.
This document sets out the policy of the Berri Barmera Council for setting and collecting rates from its
community. The policy covers:
Valuation used for rating
Method used to value land
Adoption of valuations
Councils revenue raising powers
Deferential general rates
Minimum rate
Service Charges
Natural resource management levy
Rate concessions
Payment of rates
Late payment of rates
Remission and postponement of rates
Deferment of Rates – Primary Producers
Rebate of rates
Sale of land for non-payment of rates
Rate Impact Statement
Application of the policy
Disclaimer
Adoption and review
CONTACT DETAILS FOR FURTHER INFORMATION
Berri Barmera Council (Main Office)
19 Wilson Street
BERRI SA 5343
Telephone: (08) 8582 1922
Fax: (08) 8582 3029
Email: bbc@berribarmera.sa.gov.au
Postal Address: PO Box 229, Berri SA 5343
Barmera Library
Customer Service Centre
Barwell Avenue
BARMERA SA 5345
Page … 53
VALUATIONS USED FOR RATING:
The following table and information provides a breakdown of valuation movements within the Council area,
separated in the respective Land Use Codes provided by the Valuer Generals Office.
Land Use Code
Residential
Commercial (Shops)
Commercial (Offices)
Commercial (Other)
Industrial (Light)
Industrial (Other)
Primary Production
Vacant Land
Others
Total
Valuation 06/07
623,211,500
43,431,500
9,001,000
60,899,900
5,432,000
30,439,100
296,807,500
17,223,500
66,557,920
1,153,003,920
Valuation 07/08
724,799,866
44,225,000
9,634,000
66,577,140
5,805,500
32,566,500
249,642,710
21,183,740
73,814,944
1,228,249,400
Increase ($)
101,588,366
793,500
633,000
5,677,240
373,500
2,127,400
-47,164,790
3,960,240
7,257,024
75,245,480
Increase (%)
16.3
1.8
7.0
9.0
6.8
7.0
-15.9
23.0
10.9
6.5
The figures contained within the above table are provided by the Valuer Generals Office and demonstrate an
overall increase of 6.5% of valuations over the Council area. The significant increases in valuations have
occurred in the residential and vacant land, however there has been a decrease in valuations for the Primary
Production land use category.
The following information relates to the valuation increase in each of the Land use Codes used by Council for
rating purposes that is a direct result of development occurring within the area, and which is calculated as a
percentage of the valuation increase. The valuations displayed are valuations used for rating purposes, that is
non-rateable valuations are not included.
Land Use Code
Residential Towns
Residential Rural
Primary Production
Rural Dry/Vacant
Other
Commercial Towns
Commercial Rural
Industrial Towns
Industrial Rural
Total
Valuation 06/07
404,525,187
236,000,213
282,693,450
10,157,580
20,218,975
93,766,257
14,918,137
5,557,100
25,714,300
1,093,551,199
Valuation 07/08
461,814,841
261,793,725
250,818,050
12,200,800
22,695,625
101,692,994
16,365,350
6,350,500
27,298,375
1,161,030,260
Increase ($)
57,289,654
25,793,512
-31,875,400
2,043,220
2,476,650
7,926,737
1,447,213
793,400
1,584,075
67,479,061
Increase (%)
14.16
10.92
-11.28
20.11
12.25
8.45
9.70
14.28
6.16
6.17
METHOD USED TO VALUE LAND
The Council may adopt one of three valuation methodologies to value the properties in its area. They are:
Capital Value - the value of the land and all of the improvements on the land.
Site Value - the value of the land and any improvements which permanently affect the amenity or use of the
land, such as drainage works, but excluding the value of buildings and other improvements.
Annual Value - a valuation of the rental potential of the property.
Page … 54
The Council has decided to continue to use Capital Value as the basis for valuing land within the Council area.
The Council considers that this method of valuing land provides the fairest method of distributing the rate burden
across all ratepayers on the following basis:
The equity principle of taxation requires that taxpayers of greater wealth pay more tax than those of lesser
wealth.
Property value is a relatively good indicator of wealth and capital value, which closely approximates the market
value of a property and provides the best indicator of overall property value.
ADOPTION OF VALUATIONS
The Council has proposes to adopt the valuations made by the Valuer-General as provided to the Council for
the financial year 2007/2008. If a ratepayer is dissatisfied with the valuation made by the Valuer-General then
the ratepayer may object to the Valuer-General in writing, within 60 days of receiving the notice of the valuation,
explaining the basis for the objection, provided they have not:
(a)
(b)
Previously received a notice of this valuation under the Local Government Act, 1999, in which case the
objection period is sixty (60) days from the receipt of the first notice; or
Previously had an objection to the valuation considered by the Valuer-General.
Objections are to be forwarded to:
State Valuation Office
GPO Box 1354
ADELAIDE SA 5001
Email: lsg.objections@saugovsa.gov.au
Telephone number is 1300 653 345.
Please note that the Council has no role in this process. It is also important to note that the lodgement of an
objection does not change the due date for the payment of rates.
NOTIONAL VALUES
Certain properties may be eligible for a notional value under the Valuation of Land Act 1971 where the property
is the principal place of residence of a ratepayer. This can relate to certain primary production land or where
there is State heritage recognition. A notional value is generally less than the capital value and this will result in
reduced rates, unless the minimum rate already applies. Application for a notional value must be made to the
Office of the Valuer-General.
COUNCIL’S REVENUE RAISING POWERS
All land within a Council area, except for land specifically exempt (e.g. Crown Land, Council occupied land and
other land prescribed in the Local Government Act 1999 – refer Section 147 of the Act), is rateable. The Local
Government Act provides for a Council to raise revenue for the broad purposes of the Council through a general
rate, which applies to all rateable properties, or through differential general rates, which apply to classes of
properties. In addition, Council can raise separate rates for specific areas of the Council, or service rates or
charges for specific services.
The Council also raises revenue through fees and charges, which are set giving consideration to the cost of the
service provided and any equity issues. Refer to Section 9 - Funding the Business Plan.
Page … 55
DIFFERENTIAL GENERAL RATES
The Council has decided to impose differential general rates according to the locality of the land and its use,
pursuant to Section 156 (1)(c) of the Local Government Act 1999.
In applying Differential General Rates Council has considered and is satisfied that the rating system addresses
the issue of consistency and comparability across all Council areas, particularly as it relates to the various
sectors of the business and wider community. This satisfies the requirements of Section 153(2) of the Local
Government Act 1999.
The localities and uses are as follows:
Township of Barmera, Berri, Cobdogla, Glossop, Loveday and Monash as defined, with land use categories
including residential, commercial, industrial and other.
Outside of aforesaid Townships as defined, with land use categories including residential, primary production,
vacant rural dry, other, commercial and industrial.
The Council is proposing to raise rate revenue of $5,747,800 in a total revenue budget of $11,020,693 and will
continue to use the differential rating method as follows:
(1)
Townships of Barmera, Berri, Cobdogla, Glossop, Loveday and Monash as defined:
(a)
Residential
0.4855 cents in the dollar on the capital
value of such rateable property
(b)
Commercial
0.5834
“
“
(c)
Industrial
0.6022
“
“
(d)
Other
0.4376
“
“
(2)
Outside the aforesaid Townships as defined:
(a)
Residential
0.4780 cents in the dollar on the capital
value of such rateable property
(b)
Primary Production
0.4350
“
“
(c)
Vacant
0.4376
“
“
(d)
Other
0.4376
“
“
(e)
Commercial
0.5645
“
“
(f)
Industrial
0.5834
“
“
Land use is used as the factor to apply differential rates. If a ratepayer believes that a particular property has
been wrongly classified as to its land use, then they may object to that land use within 60 days of receiving
notice. A ratepayer may discuss the matter with the Council‟s Rates Officer in the first instance and Council will
provide a copy of Section 156 of the Local Government Act 1999 which sets out the rights and obligations of
ratepayers in respect of objections to a land use.
MINIMUM RATE
A Council may impose a minimum amount payable by way of rates, provided that it has not imposed a fixed
charge. Where two or more adjoining properties have the same owner and are occupied by the same occupier,
only one minimum rate is payable by the ratepayer. Where a Council imposes a minimum rate it must not apply
to more than 35% of properties in the Council area.
Page … 56
The Council proposes to set a minimum rate of $500, which shall be applied to all rateable properties within the
Council District. This will affect 17.98% of rateable properties and will raise $528,500 of rate revenue for the
2007/2008 financial year. The reasons for imposing a minimum rate are:
The Council considers it appropriate that all rateable properties make a base level contribution to the
cost of administering the Council‟s activities;
The cost of creating and maintaining the physical infrastructure that supports each property
SERVICE CHARGE
The Council provides a community wastewater management system to properties in the townships of Barmera,
Berri, Cobdogla, Glossop, Monash and Loveday. The full cost of operating and maintaining the service for the
financial year 2007/2008 is budgeted to be $2,305,992. This includes capital expenditure of $50,000 put aside
for construction and $1,775,695 for future asset replacement employed in providing the service.
As per the declaration of the service charge relating to Effluent Drainage Schemes, the Council will recover the
operating cost through the imposition of a service charge of $200 for each unoccupied property unit and $400
for each occupied property unit. The occupied property unit includes an amount of $30 per unit for septic tank
desludging.
NATURAL RESOURCES MANAGEMENT LEVY
The Natural Resources Management Act 2004 requires that the Berri Barmera Council collect on behalf of the
SA Murray-Darling Basin Natural Resources Management Board a levy on all rateable properties within its
Council area.
The levy funds ongoing NRM projects which are vital to the region to protect and manage precious natural
resources such as water and soil and control pest plants and animals. For the financial year 2007/2008 the Berri
Barmera Council are required to make payable to the SA Murray-Darling Basin Natural Resources Management
Board an amount of $63,696.
In order to recover this amount a separate rate of .000055 cents in the dollar has been declared, based on the
capital value of all rateable land within the Council area. A minimum separate rate of $6.00 has also been
declared for such rateable land.
RATE CONCESSIONS
The State Government, in providing equity across SA in this area, funds a range of concessions on Council
rates. The concessions are administered by various State Agencies who determine eligibility and pay the
concession directly to Council on behalf of the ratepayer. Concessions are available only on the principal place
of residence.
Ratepayers who believe they are entitled to a concession should not withhold payment of rates pending
assessment of an application by the State Government as penalties apply to overdue rates. A refund will be
paid to an eligible person if Council is advised that a concession applies and the rates have already been paid.
State Seniors Card Ratepayer (Self Funded Retirees)
Revenue SA administers this concession. If you are a self-funded retiree and currently hold a State Seniors
Card you may be eligible for a concession toward Council rates. In the case of couples, both must qualify, or if
only one holds a State Senior‟s Card, the other must not be in paid employment for more than 20 hours per
Page … 57
week. If you have not received a concession on your rate notice or would like further information please contact
the Revenue SA Call Centre on 1300 366 150.
Pension Concession
If you are an eligible pensioner you may be entitled to a remission on your rates. Application forms (including
information on the concessions) are available from the Council office or by phoning the DFC Concessions
Hotline on 1800 307 758 or Council on 8582 1922.
An eligible pensioner must hold a Pension Card, State Concession Card or be a T.P.I. Pensioner. They must
also be responsible for the payment of rates on the property for which they are claiming a concession. The
State Government administers the applications.
It is important to note that seeking a remission does not change the due date for payment of rates.
Unemployed Persons Concessions
The Department for Families and Communities (DFC) Department of Human Services (DHS) may assist with
the payment of Council rates for your principal place of residence (remissions are not available on vacant land
or rental premises). Please contact the Concessions Hotline on 1800 307 758 or your nearest DHS office for
details.
PAYMENT OF RATES
The Local Government Act 1999 requires that Council must provide an opportunity for all ratepayers to pay
rates by quarterly instalments. These instalments are to be payable in the months of September, December,
March and June.
It is not mandatory for ratepayers to pay by quarterly instalments, however it is an option that Council must
make available to all ratepayers.
The due dates for the quarterly instalments of Council rates for 2007/2008 are:
14th September 2007
14th December 2007
14th March 2008
13th June 2008
Council rates may be paid by:
Mail (cheque or money order)
Telephone, using a debit or credit card, phone (08) 8582 1922
Bpay facility as detailed on the rate notice
Internet as detailed on the rate notice
In person at the Council Office locations - EFTPOS facilities are available for payments.
BillExpress facility as detailed on the rate notice
Australia Post billpay facility as detailed on the rate notice
Any ratepayer who may, or is likely to, experience difficulties with meeting the standard payment arrangements
should contact the Rates Officer on (08) 8582 1922 to discuss alternative payment arrangements. Such
enquiries are treated confidentially.
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LATE PAYMENT OF RATES
The Local Government Act provides that Councils impose a penalty of a 2% fine on any payment for rates,
whether instalment or otherwise, that is not paid on or before the due date as from 1 July 2007. A payment that
continues to be late is then charged a prescribed interest rate, set each year according to a formula in the Act,
for each month it continues to be late. The purpose of this penalty is to act as a deterrent to ratepayers who
might otherwise fail to pay their rates on time, to allow Councils to recover the administrative cost of following up
unpaid rates and to cover any interest cost the Council may meet because it has not received the rates on time.
For the 2007/2008 financial year this rate is 0.8542% (TBA) per month.
When the Council receives a payment in respect of overdue rates the Council applies the money received as
follows:
First – to satisfy any costs awarded in connection with court proceedings;
Second – to satisfy any interest costs;
Third – in payment of any fines imposed;
Fourth – in payment of rates, in chronological order (starting with the oldest account first)
REMISSION AND POSTPONEMENT OF RATES
Section 182 of the Local Government Act permits the Council, on the application of the ratepayer, to partially or
wholly remit rates or to postpone rates, on the basis of hardship. Where a ratepayer is suffering hardship in
paying rates, it is recommended to contact the Rates Officer on (08) 85821922 to discuss the matter.
A ratepayer may be required to submit evidence of the hardship being suffered to benefit from the application of
Section 182. The Council treats such enquiries confidentially.
DEFERMENT OF RATES – PRIMARY PRODUCERS
Section 182 of the Local Government Act, allows the Council to partially or wholly remit or postpone rates on the
basis of hardship.
It has been the decision of Council that due to the economic downturn and hardship being faced by the
horticulture industry, ratepayers, upon application to the Council, may request to defer payment of Council rates.
Council has an arrangement with the Rural Counselling Service for assessment of rate deferment or
postponement of rates for the 2007/2008 year for the horticultural and primary industry sectors. The
applications that are made to the Rural Counselling Service are based on hardship grounds and are therefore
assessed and forwarded to Council.
The Annual Business Plan reflects a policy position for Council that is where postponement of rate applications
are received through the Rural Counselling Service for horticulture and primary industry based ratepayers, the
rates will be postponed without the addition of fines and interest. This will be the basis for the assessment of
these types of applications.
In addition to other applications to be received on hardship grounds for non-horticulture or industry based
ratepayers, organisations such as Families SA with the Financial Counsellors will be utilised to assess these
applications and a determination will be made on each application as and when received.
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REBATE OF RATES
The Local Government Act requires Councils to rebate the rates payable on some land. Specific provisions are
made for land used for health services, community services, religious purposes, public cemeteries and
educational institutions.
Discretionary rebates may be applied by the Council under Section 166 of the Act, upon receipt of applications
in accordance with Council‟s Rate Rebate Policy that deem to satisfy the criteria specified within this section.
The Council under the discretionary rebate of rates, may grant a rebate in any of the following purposes and
cases:
Where the rebate is desirable for the purpose of securing the proper development of the area (or a part
of the area).
Where the rebate is desirable for the purpose of assisting or supporting a business in its area.
Where the rebate will conduce to the preservation of buildings or places of historic significance.
Where the land is being used for educational purposes.
Where the land is being used for agricultural, horticultural or floricultural exhibitions.
Where the land is being used for hospital or health centre.
Where the land is being used to provide facilities or services for children or young persons.
Where the land is being used to provide accommodation for the aged or disabled.
Where the land is being used for a residential aged care facility that is approved for Commonwealth
funding under the Aged Care Act 1997 (Cwlth) or a day therapy centre.
Where the land is being used by an organisation, which, in the opinion of the council, provides a benefit
or service to the local community.
Where the rebate relates to common property or land vested in a community corporation under the
Community Titles Act 1996 over which the public has a free and unrestricted right of access and
enjoyment.
Where the rebate is considered by the council to be appropriate to provide relief against what would
otherwise amount to a substantial change in rates payable by a ratepayer due to –
a. A redistribution of the rates burden within the community arising from a change to the basis or
structure of the council‟s rates, or
b. A change to the basis on which land is valued for the purpose of rating, rapid changes in
valuation, or anomalies in valuations.
c. Any rebate over and above the legislated percentage provided by the Act, for mandatory
rebates or discretionary rebates, will need to be considered by Council upon written application
and in conjunction with the Rate Rebate Policy adopted by Council on 26th July 2005.
Applications for such additional rebates are required on an annual basis.
SALE OF LAND FOR NON-PAYMENT OF RATES
The Local Government Act provides that a Council may sell any property where the rates have been in arrears
for three years or more. The Council is required to notify the owner of the land of its intention to sell the land,
provide the owner with details of the outstanding amounts, and advise the owner of its intention to sell the land if
payment of the outstanding amount is not received within one month.
RATE IMPACT STATEMENT
The Council has considered the impact of rates on all classes of properties in its area, in particular primary
producers. In considering the impact, the following observations were made:
It is the view of Council that benefits received by ratepayers are not uniform, particularly in regard to
rural ratepayers versus urban ratepayers. Examples of services not provided to some ratepayers are
Page … 60
street lighting, kerbing and guttering, and footpaths to name a few. With this in mind Council has
continued to use the differential rating system when calculating the current year‟s rates.
Primary producers, in particular the viticulture industry, have in recent years suffered poor returns and
lower incomes which has then resulted in Council‟s consideration in setting a somewhat lower rate in
the dollar in comparison to other properties within the district. Overall, there has been a reduction in
property valuations for primary production properties, which is reflective of the lower income returns for
horticulture properties. This fact has also been reflected in the decrease in the rates in the dollar
applied to such properties.
From primary production properties Council is proposing to raise rate revenue of $1,102,891 for the
2007/2008 year.
The majority of Council‟s ratepayers are classified as “town residential”. The total rate revenue to be
raised from town residential properties for 2007/2008 is $2,316,069 and represents 40% of its total rate
revenue raised;
Commercial and industrial properties of the Council area generally have the same services available to
them and their employees as other ratepayers, however it is accepted that commercial and industrial
users have a greater impact on the main services such as road maintenance and may derive a greater
benefit from such services as improved public lighting, parking controls etc. This is the basis for Council
setting a higher rate in the dollar for such properties.
Council proposes to raise rate revenue of $697,257 from commercial properties for the 2007/2008
financial year and $201,382 from industrial properties.
Council recognises its responsibility to stimulate and encourage economic growth in a diverse range of activities
and to do so must provide adequate infrastructure.
APPLICATION OF THE POLICY
Where a ratepayer believes that the Council has failed to properly apply this policy it should raise the matter with
the Council. In the first instance contact should be made with the Deputy Chief Executive Officer on (08) 8582
1922 to discuss the matter.
If after the initial contact a ratepayer is still dissatisfied they should write to the Chief Executive Officer, Berri
Barmera Council, PO Box 229, Berri SA 5343.
DISCLAIMER
A rate cannot be challenged on the basis of non-compliance with the rating policy and must be paid in
accordance with the required payment provisions.
ADOPTION AND REVIEW
This policy was adopted at the Council meeting held on the 24th July 2007, being resolution number 1238/07 of
the Council meeting.
The policy will be reviewed annually in May or June to coincide with Council adopting its annual budget and
declaring the annual rates.
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COMMUNITY:
YOUTH:
The 2007/08 financial year has been a whirlpool of activity in the
youth department. Councils‟ objective to engage young people in
the community and encourage youth participation through the Youth
Advisory Committee (YACU) has flourished. With a strong YAC
consisting of 20 young people it is evident that the committee and
the Council have built a strong reputation within the community. Through the numerous projects and events the
Council have proven that they are serious about empowering youth and supporting them to be the leaders of
tomorrow. The young people now recognise and associate particular activities and events as a Council and/or
YACU driven initiative.
Activities ranged from art workshops, social events, major dance event, Skate & BMX competitions, community
displays, school holiday activities and youth advocacy at forums. This year has also seen an increase in YACU
advising service providers/organisations through consultation processes.
Throughout the year of activities 918 young people outside of the YACU committee have participated in events
and programs that the Council have offered. We have also partnered or utilised approximately 52 businesses
and/or organisations.
The highlights of the year most certainly include „N Hanced 2008‟, National Youth Weeks „Sex, Drugs & Rock „n‟
Roll‟, „SWAS BMX & Skate Competition‟, „Healthy Relationships‟ and „Know Your Limits‟. Even the
events/programs that were not as successful, offered opportunity for YACU members to evaluate and redevelop strategies to better address certain issues.
The running of events and programs has given the YACU members opportunity to develop a range of skills,
build confidence, community pride, build relationships, network and advocate and consult on a level rarely
available for rural youth.
The year from the perspective of one of the YACU members Jordy Enright (16):
“I have been a member YACU since 2005. I became a member because I thought it would be a good
opportunity for me to be involved in youth activities in the Riverland and it would be good to have it on my
resume.
I’m still in YACU because I love doing our projects and events and I have made some great friendships. My
highlight for 2007/08 would have been Enhanced 2008 it was an awesome night and a great event. My
Favourite highlights throughout my entire membership would have been Enhanced 2007 (Ultraworld) the "Are
we There Yet" Youth seminar in Melbourne, and our YACU Christmas break up.
”YACU is a great experience. You learn a lot and you can also gain different perspectives on things and is a lot
of fun. It is a great way to make a difference!!”
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LIBRARY SERVICES:
YOUR LIBRARY @ BERRI BARMERA
We are pleased to report that Berri Barmera Council Libraries have had another active and busy 12 months.
There have been a number of new initiatives at both Berri and Barmera libraries, which we hope, have added to
the library experience and enhanced our service to customers.
As always, there were challenges to meet, which have allowed us to review what we do and how we approach
our core business. Staff members have eagerly taken part in training opportunities to further develop their skills
and have been enthusiastic and actively involved in library and Council programmes and events. Some
highlights include:
Both the Berri and Barmera communities were given the opportunity to complete customer surveys about
their library services and we are pleased to say they responded very positively with the majority being
“Very Satisfied” or “Satisfied” with the service provided.
Beginning in 2008 Berri Barmera Council libraries have started to decrease their video collection as
interest in the community for this collection is dropping, but substantially increase their DVD collections
which are more popular with customers.
In 2008 Berri Library began sending SMS reservations available notices to customers and the success of
this has meant that we will soon extend this service to Barmera library and utilise SMS messaging for
overdue reminders. SMS messaging is substantially more cost effective than generating and posting print
notices.
Weekly children‟s story time and activities at both Berri and Barmera libraries continued to be successful.
The Barmera Kindergarten visited the Barmera Library for their weekly story telling and activities, and a
staff member visited the Kindergarten on Wednesdays to read a story and promote literacy and the
Library. St Josephs School also visited us on several occasions for stories and fun activities.
The Berri Library hosted a very successful Big Book Club Literary Event in the Riverview Room of the Berri
Resort Hotel in October 2007. More than 75 people came from around the Riverland to enjoy supper and
listen to popular author, Monica McInerney speak about her latest book, Those Faraday Girls.
Author Monica McInerney signs a copy of her latest book, for Lisanne Jarvis, member of the Berri Library
Big Book Club Reading Group.
We celebrated Library and Information Week this year by running a successful Riverland libraries book
sale, offering morning tea and a free raffles for our customers.
More than 85 students from Loveday Primary School, Barmera Primary School and Barmera Kindergarten
visited the Barmera Library at various times during Children‟s Book Week in August. Loveday Primary
again came in beautiful fancy dress. One talented staff member who wishes to remain anonymous
enhanced a special reading of one of the Book Week books by dressing up as a baby to re-enact the
story.
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Berri Library consolidated its‟ fortnightly new outreach loan services to St Catherines and Cottage Homes
through which we deliver books, talking books and DVDs to the elderly, who cannot otherwise visit the
library.
Berri Library has been successful in obtaining a grant from the ANZAC Day Commemorative Fund – SA
Department of Premier and Cabinet, to purchase a multimedia station. The new cutting edge technology
will enable library users to hear wartime recollections in the form of books on disc, view video and DVD
footage and also local oral histories from returned veterans. It will be available for use in the latter part of
2008.
A new initiative for the Barmera Library in 2008 is the implementation of a “Baby Rhyme Time” program,
starting in October last year. Co-ordinated by volunteer, Melanie Allder, these Rhyme time sessions have
grown in popularity and are another great example of how our Library and the community can work
together to achieve great results.
From left to right: Dylan Gilgen, Izaac Vanderwoude, Natasha Dawe and Lucas Allder have fun at Barmera‟s Baby Rhyme Time.
In May 2008 the Berri Barmera Council, represented by the Berri Library hosted a very successful evening
with the Miles Franklin Literary Award 2008 short listed authors. The event was held at the Berri Resort
Hotel with more than 85 people attending from all over the region. This year, five authors were chosen for
the shortlist:- David Brooks for “The Fern Tattoo”, Steven Carroll for “The Time We Have Taken” (the
ultimate winner), Rodney Hall for “Love Without Hope”, Gail Jones for “Sorry” and Alex Miller for
“Landscape of Farewell”. The evening was a great success with Bruce Mellett from the ABC acting as MC,
great food and lots of stimulating questions from the audience. We look forward to more author visits in
the future and in case you were wondering, Steven Carroll was later announced the winner of the 2008
Miles Franklin Literary Award.
From left to right: Gail Jones, Steven Carroll, Rodney Hall and David Brooks (author Alex Miller not in the photo)
At the Barmera Library school holiday activities attendances continue to increase every holiday. Some
highlights for the past year were the Looney Balloons, Harry Potter party, Greek masks and music, and
New Zealand Poi. Face painting and balloon animals with the youth from YACU was a great success, and
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we appreciate the enthusiasm the YACU group displayed - a great example of Youth and the Council
uniting to achieve the best results for the community.
Berri Barmera Council library staff members attended the National Public Libraries – Building a Balance
conference in Adelaide in August last year, and all agreed it was truly a worthwhile experience and
enhanced our knowledge not only of Libraries but also the very important role of local government in the
Community.
Free introductory eBay sessions were held at both Berri and Barmera libraries during the year to teach
people how to this successful web phenomena to their best advantage.
Summer reading promotion attracted the attention of many of our young readers during December and
January, and a party with prizes and sweets was held to celebrate their achievements.
Chelsea Hamond, Bianca Gropler and Tessa Webber attend Summer Reading Fun at the
Barmera Library in January 2008.
On October 31st the Barmera Library celebrated its 46th birthday, and to
celebrate we held the Riverland‟s first ever “Living Library”. The Living Library worked exactly like a
normal library with one difference: the books in the Living Library were human beings, and the books and
readers talked to each other. The evening was an outstanding success with over sixty people attending to
“read” the stories of the twelve brave volunteer “books” and learn about a wide variety of cultures, lifestyles
and background. We felt we had achieved our aims of building bridges to bring together members of our
community, and promoting harmony and happiness while celebrating our birthday and having fun.
Barmera Library celebrated History week and Library week in May. The National Trust‟s photographic
display of local historical icons was provided by Corrie Spronk and Garth Gow, and attracted much
interest. We invited the community and members of our Council to join us for “Coffee, tea and history” on
the 30th May and over forty took up our offer, including Deputy CEO Mary Deakin. Guest speakers Garth
Gow and Rosemary Gower talked about the early history of our region, and the afternoon concluded with
tea, coffee and some great scones from our famous Barmera Bakery.
Council CEO David Beaton began to work one day a week from the Barmera Library and Customer
Service Centre in May this year, and joined with members of the community to hear Anne Rogers and the
Bush Poets session of free poetry reading at the Library. Staff members were involved with the promotion
of the Riverland Country Music Festival Awards ceremony, and we were proud to learn we won two
awards of our own for best window display over the Country music week.
We are again grateful to our many volunteers for their help over the past financial year, and thank Councillors,
all council staff and our local communities for their continued support. We look forward to meeting the
challenges of the next financial year and to again playing our part in “building a better community”.
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STATISTICS FROM YOUR LIBRARY SERVICE
BERRI BARMERA COUNCIL LIBRARY STATISTICS 2007/2008
LOANS
BERRI
BARMERA
2006-2007
2007-2008 2006-2007 2007-2008
Adult Fiction
11,303
11,252
6,592
6,117
Adult Non-Fiction
6,705
5,931
3,871
3,110
Large Print
5,868
5,361
6,412
6,103
Sub Total Adult
23,876
22,544
16,875
15,330
Children
13,227
13,737
5,499
4,969
Paperbacks – Adult
6,544
5,915
8,730
7,679
Paperbacks – Children
1,956
1,717
1,975
1,447
Periodicals
5,245
4,806
4,503
3,791
CDs
2,561
2,482
1,511
1,512
CD-ROMs
1,791
1,806
585
579
Videos
4,985
2,781
2,578
1,639
DVDs
10,770
12,065
9,373
8,873
Hear-A- Books
828
1,005
534
484
LOTE
103
97
189
185
School Resources
6,465
5,380
NA
63
TAFE Resources
3,427
3,264
NA
29
ILLs & Other
1,049
1,424
821
1,033
AV Equipment
896
661
NA
NA
TOTALS
83,723
79,684
53,173
47,613
USAGE
BERRI
BARMERA
2006-2007
2007-2008 2006-2007 2006-2007
Door Count
119,903
116,242
64,700
54,977
Internet Bookings
6,886
6,555
5,366
5,056
Holiday Activities
219
201
264
253
Weekly children‟s
608
464
690
729*
Activities*
SA Network Inter Library 6,118
6,591
3,554
4,095
Loans
Visits per capita (Berri
17.0
16.5
15.4
13.1
7,025, Barmera 4,188)
Loans per capita
11.9
11.3
12.6
11.3
Open hours per annum
2,750
2,750
1,950
1,950
Web Catalogue
28,715
26,950
combined statistics
Searches
Includes Baby Rhyme Time from October 2007
Page … 66
2007-2008 TOTALS
17,369
9,041
11,464
37,874
18,706
13,594
3,164
8,597
3,994
2,385
4,420
20,938
1,489
282
5,443
3,293
2,457
661
127,297
2007-2008
171,219
11,611
454
1,193
10,686
15.2
11.3
4,700
26,950
RIVERLAND COMMUNITY TRANSPORT SCHEME:
Early this year the Riverland Community Transport Scheme (RCTS) celebrated its 10-year anniversary and it is
interesting to note some of the statistics compiled during this time; over 80 volunteers have covered in excess of
1,700,000km and provided more than 58,000 client trips to the Riverland Community. Berri Barmera Council has
proudly coordinated the scheme since its inception and this service forms just one part of the Riverland
Integrated Transport System that is subsidised by the State Government‟s Passenger Transport Board.
The key goal of the Scheme is to link Riverland residents with the
commercial operators, including the Taxi Services and Bus operators
such as Coorong Coaches, Mid Murray Coaches, Premier Stateliner
and Townsend‟s. Achieving this priority will ensure increased use of
these public transport options, so they may continue to be
sustainable well into the future. Berri Barmera Council staff members
have developed a Riverland Bus Timetable, which will be available
from Council offices and other key venues from mid-August.
Obviously the commercial transport options cannot always meet the needs of all members of the community and
in these situations the Riverland Community Transport Scheme is able to provide volunteer driven vehicles to
ensure that the frail, isolated and other disadvantaged residents get to medical appointments and other priority
activities.
This year some 29 volunteers have provided over 10,000 hours towards transporting clients between Riverland
towns and even to Adelaide. The scheme consists of three cars operating locally and the Medical Bus for trips to
Adelaide and has operated nearly every weekday and an occasional weekend trip. In total over 750 Riverland
residents have utilised the scheme, with drivers covering over 275,000km with the 6000 client trips for the year.
The Medical Bus alone has clocked up in excess of 140,000km since
commencing the service in early 2007 providing over 1000 client trips for
Riverlander‟s to access medical treatment in Adelaide. This service has been
coordinated almost entirely by a team of volunteers who have ensured that
this essential service successfully links the Riverland community with
specialist medical services unavailable in the region.
Each of these transport trips would not be viable with out the donations made by clients and the broader
community, and most importantly the dedicated volunteers giving their time to ensure those in need get to their
destinations.
The staff and elected members would like to convey our sincere gratitude to each and every volunteer driver,
and in fact all 85 Council volunteers who assist in building a better community by undertaking vital duties at the
Libraries, Visitor Information Centre and Rocky‟s Hall of Fame and Pioneer Museum.
For more information about the Transport Scheme or volunteering in the community contact the Community
Development Officer.
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COMMUNITY ORGANISATION SUPPORT AND SPECIAL EVENTS:
Community Organisation Support
Each year the Council organises or supports events for the benefit of the local community. The Council supports
community groups either by financial means through the community grants scheme or with in kind support as
requested by various groups. This year grants were given to the Berri Rowing Club, Berri Scout Group,
Riverland Youth Ministries, Riverland Gem and Mineral Club, Barmera Lake Bonney Quilters, Lions Club of
Berri, Barmera RSL, Berri Basketball Association, Barmera Primary School students, Glossop High School
students, Berri Guide members and Our Lady of the River students.
Other organisation/events supported include, but not limited to, the Community buses in Barmera and Berri,
Tennis Australia, Active Riverland, Country Music Festival, Sheep Dog Trials, Riverland Cycling event, Barmera
Pageant, Barmera Markets Riverland Youth Theatre, and various others. Council has taken a proactive
approach in supporting those groups with limited capacity to pay that aim to contribute to the community‟s
quality of life.
Seniors Christmas Parties Nov/Dec 2007
The Berri Barmera Council staff and elected members work together to
give our senior citizens a Christmas party to remember. November and
December saw these annual events cater for over 500 people attending
at either the Bonney Theatre in Barmera or the Berri town hall to enjoy a
hot dinner and some excellent entertainment put on with the support of
the Riverland entertainers.
Enjoying the Barmera Seniors party with
Mayor Peter Hunt were Val and Snow Tschirpig
The senior citizens thoroughly enjoy the evening and look forward to the next
one as do, the staff and elected members. Plans get underway early to
choose entertainment and organise the venues, food and drinks. Mayor Hunt
says, „It is one way that we can give just a little back to those who have
contributed so much to our local community in the past‟.
Deputy Mayor Rhonda Centofanti enjoyed a chat
with Joyce Wilson and Marjorie Ludlow at the Berri Seniors party
Australia Day 2008
The Berri Barmera Council held it's annual Australia Day Ceremony on the riverfront adjacent to the Visitor
Information Centre, Riverview Drive Berri on 26th January 2008. A BBQ breakfast with tea, coffee and juice was
well attended and Australia Day Awards were presented to: 2008 Citizen of the Year - Mr Kevin Muller
2008 Young Citizen of the Year - Daniel Barnett
2008 Award - St. Catherine's Musical Entertainers
Pictured from Left to right Daniel Barnett, Mayor Peter Hunt,
Kevin Muller, John Shepherd and Pat Jury.
2008's celebrations also included the inaugural " Australia Day Walk ". The walk followed the river towards
Martin's Bend with over 30 people including our Australia Day Ambassador Mr John Shepherd, enjoying the
sunrise over the mighty Murray, finishing at the Visitor Information Centre, just in time for breakfast. The Berri
Barmera Council wishes to thank all those who participated in the morning‟s festivities and we look forward to a
successful Australia Day 2009, in Barmera.
Page … 68
BERRI VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE:
The Berri Visitor Information Centre has continued to expand and thrive throughout the 2007/08 financial year,
as we endeavoured to work more closely with the local community and expand our services to cater to the
travelling public that visit our region.
Our range of local, intrastate and interstate information continues to grow, with a wide variety of brochures for
the general public to take with them free of charge to assist in the planning of their holidays. An assortment of
UBD and Gregory‟s maps, atlases, camping and 4WD books are a great accompaniment for those wanting
additional information at reasonable prices.
During the past few months we have also installed a new souvenir area to overcome the lack of space we have
had in the past to display our souvenirs. With this development we have also been able to increase the range of
souvenirs and local products we offer for sale. The introduction of Bella Lavender products, plush animals,
embroidered Berri t-towels, a wide range of bird gift cards, and Italo Vardaro prints of the Riverland are proving
popular with visitors to the centre.
Another feature we have introduced is the monthly display to highlight a local businesses or individual. A
completely free service, we would like to encourage those who would like to promote their product to get in
contact with us. Our most popular display to date was that of the Salvation Army Family Store, which was held
in conjunction with the Country Music Festival. At the moment, we have artwork on display by Jamahl Pollard, a
new resident to the Riverland who also paints out the front of the Berri Visitor Information Centre on Sundays
(weather permitting).
Finally, we are now selling tickets
for BMS boat tours, which operate
out of Berri on a daily basis offering
a 2-hour boat trip through Lock 4
and return. Personal functions and
charters are also available. This
adds to the booking service that we
offer for the Renmark River Cruises.
We are also sales outlet for many
local events including the Riverland
Field Days, Riverland Musical Society performances and the Riverland Renaissance Festival.
VISITOR NUMBERS
The Berri Visitor Information Centre showed an overall decrease of 7.9% in visitor numbers throughout the
2007-08 financial year, although this was felt throughout the entire Riverland region. Although our overall
number of visitors was down, it was great to see that the number of local visitors to the centre continue to
increase. Statistics kept also show requests for information on maps, accommodation options, food outlets,
library services and fruit fly information rose which is also another positive sign.
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SOUTH AUSTRALIAN TOURISM AWARDS 2007
Held on the 3rd of November, at the Convention Centre in Adelaide, the South Australian Tourism Awards
showcase the talent that South Australia has to offer. The Berri Visitor Information Centre entered the “Visitor
Information and Service” category of the awards and was thrilled to win a Silver Medal - presented to entries of
a high standard with a score of 80% or higher.
The submission process included a site visit and a very detailed written submission on a variety of different
areas including marketing, customer service, staff development and business plans.
Winning this award along with the 2007 Renmark Club „General Tourism Services & Media‟ Award were major
highlights of the past financial year, and it was incredible to be publicly recognised at such a high level for the
tireless work and devotion of all who work at the Berri Visitor Information Centre not only staff, but volunteers as
well.
5th BIRTHDAY CELEBRATIONS
A 5th Birthday Party was held on the 20th November 2007 to celebrate the success
of the past five years of the Berri Visitor Information Centre and also as thank you
to our volunteers for the support and time that they give. It was well attended by
elected members and the Mayor of Berri Barmera Council and our volunteers.
Volunteers were also presented with certificates on the night with the number of
hours they worked throughout the year mentioned.
Our volunteers are essential to the success of the Berri Visitor Information Centre and are a valuable part of our
team environment.
PLANS FOR 2008 - 2009
The Berri Visitor Information Centre is currently working on the
new Berri Visitor Guide and Voucher System, which will be given
to visitors to our district to encourage them to stay a little longer
and spend in our community. The support that we have received
from the local operators has been very encouraging and we look forward to their feedback on the project.
Another task we will be working in conjunction with the Berri Barmera Council is to update our website. We are
hoping to make it a very user friendly; with access to all the relevant information visitors need to know before
they leave home. This will be kept up to date with local happenings and events also.
Finally, we are looking forward our display at the Riverland Field Days and promoting Berri and the Riverland
district. We plan on having some great giveaways, and welcome and suggestions that you may have and
encourage any local operators to call into the stand and say hello.
Page … 70
Berri Visitor Information Centre – Statistics
Statistics
Description
2006 - 2007
Local Visitors
2397
Intrastate Visitors
4834
Interstate Visitors
3068
Overseas Visitors
1237
Unknown Visitors
5931
Bus Enquiries
6765
TOTAL VISITORS
24,232
2007 - 2008
2424
4523
2883
1497
4637
6485
22,449
Information Requested
Directions/Maps
Attractions
Cruises/Tours
Food Outlets
Restaurants/Café‟s
Shops
Hotels/Motels
Caravan Parks
Self Contained Accommodation
Bed & Breakfasts
Houseboats
Backpackers
Camping
Events
Walks
National Parks
Internet
Employment Agencies
Centrelink
Motor Registration
Quarantine
Churches
Library
Souvenirs
Toilets
Just Looking
Other
TOTAL
2006 - 2007
4773
3320
1150
914
426
747
415
534
256
122
208
205
311
1081
479
446
206
278
186
45
40
32
137
1363
2903
6400
511
27,488
2007 - 2008
5368
3307
1011
1060
438
621
419
618
269
144
279
205
266
804
579
473
177
158
124
66
132
62
183
1056
2941
4982
405
26,147
Phone Enquiries
All phone enquiries
Mail outs
2006 - 2007
2,704
166
2007 - 2008
3,507
275
Page … 71
RIVERLAND SPORT AND RECREATION:
Berri Barmera Council has been a partner in this community development project since 2004, working in
conjunction with the other two Riverland Councils, Regional Health Service and the State Government through
the Office for Recreation and Sport.
The key aims of the project are to work with a network of local government authorities, local sport and recreation
providers, community members and other key stakeholders to promote and coordinate the implementation of
programs/initiatives that aim to:
Maintain & coordinate the structures that support the development of active recreation and sport;
Assist providers to further develop their organisations and the programs and services they provide their
community; and
Increase community participation in those programs.
Through seminars and consultations numerous organisations in our district have benefited from changes to their
club management and/or with successful grant applications, including Barmera‟s Basketball, Golf, Tennis, Clubs
and YMCA Recreation Centre; and Berri‟s District Youth Club, Basketball, T-Ball, Bowls, Hockey, Cricket,
Swimming and Baseball Clubs and the Riverland Gem and Mineral Club to name a few.
Berri and Barmera residents have also benefited through their involvement in the indigenous „Team Effort‟
project, the school based physical activity of „Bluearth‟ and being involved in the „Community Walk‟ and
„Backyard Cricket‟ concepts as part of this year‟s Australia Day celebrations.
Other major highlights through Riverland activities included the student coordinated Riverland Sports Fest
conducted by Renmark High school (attended by students from across the region), the speed and colour of the
Nation Road Cycling event „Tour of the Murray‟ and determination of the Riverland Netball Association and
Riverland Football League in working together to create a more family friendly environment by aligning their
season draws.
In 2008/2009 will see a new Riverland be active Officer take over from Andrew Haigh, who has been in the role
for 6 years. Wayne Bambrick will commence in the role on July 1st 2008 and will continue to develop sport and
recreation opportunities for the Riverland, with the following key priorities over the next two years:
Key Targets for 08/09 include:
● Facilitating Club education training i.e. Safe Environments (child protection), Governance/other Seminars
● Support organisations in volunteer development practices, increasing recruitment and retention
● Maintain an up to date data base of all sporting and recreational organisation‟s
● Identify targeted population programs relating to participation in sport and physical activity
To find out how you can „be active‟ in our community, contact the Riverland be active Officer, by visiting or
phoning one of the Council offices.
Page … 72
COUNCIL PROPERTIES:
Community land is important in providing opportunities for recreation and leisure. Community Land
Management Plans provide the framework within which Council can manage and maintain properties, enabling
all of the community to benefit.
Council has recently undertaken an asset valuation of Councils buildings,
improvements and structures. This will be used to assist in the review of
Council‟s community land and assets, the review will be undertaken in the
next financial year using the data and research of the past 12 months. This
review is relevant in today‟s economic climate to ensure that Councils
buildings are managed and maintained efficiently, and effectively and to an
appropriate standard within Councils resources.
Council‟s goal this year has been to undertake research of user groups that are utilising community land, and to
ensure with integrity and fairness, that the specific clubs and organisations enter into formal arrangements with
Council. Council is in the process of meeting with individual clubs and groups and negotiating formal
agreements. An information night was held in October 2007, to inform relevant organisations that are currently
occupying Community land without any formal agreement of the proposed implementation of leases and
licences over community land.
The past financial year has seen an increase in the utilisation of Council
properties. The Berri Town Hall and Bonney Theatre are popular venues
for meetings, AGMS, displays and for recreational purposes. Most weeks
(excluding school holidays), they can be used up to 7 days a week. The
beautiful riverfront reserves and Lake Bonney foreshore were the setting
for a number of wedding ceremonies, BBQ‟s and get togethers.
The challenge for council is in maintaining our buildings and structures in a safe and useable condition, as some
of our buildings are ageing. A number of properties were inspected throughout the year and minor maintenance
was conducted. Key points in some of our properties have been identified as needing to be upgraded, and
these will be addressed in the year ahead.
Whilst Hall hire fees and charges were increased, as this had not been done in the last 2 years, Council kept in
mind the economic climate of the area, and increases were kept to a bare minimum.
CEMETERIES
The past 12 months has seen our Technical Officer Heinz Burlik create cemetery mapping on the GIS system,
allowing us to have up to date cemetery maps. These can be updated on a day-to-day basis, linking into our
records system keeping an accurate record of burial sites. Council is working to have all information uploaded
to our Internet site in the near future.
Council‟s goal is that all unmarked graves will have some form of recognition;
this is nearly completed in the Barmera Cemetery. The Berri Barmera
Cemetery Operating Procedures were finalised and adopted by the Cemetery
Committee. The year ahead will see the introduction and enforcement of a range
of regulations that were of concern to the cemetery groundsmen, mainly
addressing safety concerns in regards to glass containers and vases, memorials
and headstones, and the identification of graves.
Page … 73
ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES
Planning and Building Assessment
Environmental Health
Dog and Cat Management
Parking Control
Bushfire Prevention
Riverfront /Foreshore & Open Space Planning
Animal and Plant Control
Community Waste Water /Management/Planning/Maintenance
Property Management & Maintenance
Page … 74
INTRODUCTION:
Department Membership:
Standing Committees:
Environmental Services Committee
Specific Purposes Committees:
Non-Voting Member:
Berri Riverfront Redevelopment Advisory Committee
Lake Bonney Redevelopment Advisory Committee
Development Assessment Panel
Steven Kubasiewicz
Manager Environmental
Services
The Environment Services Department is responsible for the management
and operations of the following functions of Council, as summarised in the
Functional and Corporate structure.













Planning and Building Assessment
Development Planning
Environmental Health
Dog and Cat Management
Parking Control
Bushfire Prevention
Riverfront / Foreshore
Animal and Plant Control
General Inspections
Effluent Drainage Management / Planning / Maintenance
By Law Enforcement
Property Management / Maintenance
Open Space Planning
To effectively implement the management and operations of the Department the following Staffing Structure
applies:
Manager Environmental Services
Personal Admin. Assistant (1)
Environmental
Health Officer
(1)
Development –
Town Planning
Officer (1)
Development –
Building Officer
(1)
Page … 75
General
Inspector (1)
Effluent / Waste
Water
Contractors
PLANNING AND BUILDING ASSESSMENT:
There are statutory timeframes in place within which the Council must assess such development applications.
The Council has delegated its authority under the Development Act to both staff and the Development
Assessment Panel (DAP). Of the 278 applications assessed over this time period 22 were considered by the
DAP. Two appeals were lodged. The applicant has withdrawn one of these appeals and the other is pending a
resolution following the compulsory conference stage.
During the past 12 months, Council has assessed the following number of applications by category.
Dwellings & dwelling extensions/renovations
Land Divisions – Rural
- Township
Commercial /Industrial
Minor domestic/rural structures
Other
46
9
8
48
149
3
Two significant applications for land division were received for the town of Berri. One of these has been
approved and provides for a staged development creating a total of 141 allotments. A separate application has
been received and is yet to be finalised that seeks to establish an additional 60 residential allotments. Council
continues to receive applications from landholders seeking to divide off houses from horticultural blocks.
With the approval of the Minister Council is still operating a Development Assessment Panel of which the
membership consists of five Councillors. The three Riverland Councils, being Renmark Paringa Council, the
District Council of Loxton Waikerie and ourselves are seeking the Ministers approval to establish a Regional
Development Assessment Panel. The Council sees this as being an important means of promoting a common
approach to both assessment and policy development in the region.
Council has continued to provide from time to time an update sheet for local builders and developers.
Page … 76
Building Fire Safety Committee
The role of the committee is to undertake inspections of public use buildings (those other than for domestic
purposes) to determine its adequacy in terms of fire safety. During the past twelve months the Committee have
inspected many premises where the public either work or assemble for pleasure. In the course of these
inspections deficiencies have been noted and action taken to rectify the situation. In accordance with the
Development Act 1993 the Committee served one section 71 notice on a land owner in relationship to the
building fire safety issues. In consultation with the owner the committee has been able to achieve a workable
solution to the matter.
Over the 2007/08 year the following inspections (both primary and follow up inspections) were undertaken.
Hotels and Gaming venues – 6
Motels – 9
Caravan Parks – 10
Bed and breakfast places – 4
Packing sheds – 3
Storage facilities – 7
Commercial/industrial complexes – 6
Council buildings - 2
In addition to the committees role Councils Building Officer carries out follow up inspections to determine
compliance with the fire safety issues relating to development applications.
The three Riverland Councils are still seeking to establish a Regional Building Fire Safety Committee.
DEVELOPMENT PLANNING:
The impacts of the drought and the resulting accessibility to water are continuing to impact significantly on the
regions economy. Council continues to receive queries and applications from land owners seeking to divide their
horticulture zoned land. In most cases the request comes as a result of the horticultural crop being removed and
the water sold or to remove a dwelling and associated land parcel from the horticulture block.
Council has been actively involved in the Riverland Futures project and the review of the South Australian
Planning Strategy. Both these projects have the potential to significantly affect the long-term development of the
region and its economic base. Council has sought an extension from the Minister to undertake its Section 30
review until such time as these two projects have been finalised. The adjoining Riverland Councils have also
sought such an extension so that as a region we can develop similar policy approaches to development.
Council has recognised the need to promote diversity in its economic base and continues to promote research
into the trial plantation of a giant reed using treated wastewater. Initial tests show that these reeds have the
potential to produce sufficient biomass utilising poor quality soils and water for a range of industrial purposes.
Page … 77
“Arundo donax” at Barmera.
Council completed its Berri Eastern Approach Urban Design and Infrastructure study. This sought to identify
what services were required to facilitate the development of adjoining industrially and commercially zoned land
that abuts the main approach road from Berri to Remark. One of the outcomes of this study identified the need
for service roads. In conjunction with an adjoining private landowner Council have established its component of
this service road in the 2007/08 year.
Service Road adjacent to the Old Sturt Highway in Berri.
In 2006/07 Council commissioned an infrastructure study to facilitate the development of greenfield sites to the
western end of Berri. This has promoted the lodgement of at least two land division applications proposing to
provide an additional 200 allotments for residential development. One of these applications seeking to establish
141 allotments has been approved in a manner that is consistent with the master plan and promotes an
integrated development. Over the 2007/08 year the Council has further promoted the development of this
master plan by inviting affected land owners to be involved in the plans development and implementation.
The Council released for public comment the Berri town centre renewal project. This project seeks to promote
the development of the town of Berri as the regional centre for the Riverland. In summary it involves relocating
Page … 78
existing sporting ovals and facilities to allow for the redevelopment of existing sites for commercial /retail type
activities. It also provides the opportunity for the redevelopment of the river foreshore in Berri. The resulting
public consultation generated significant community discussion and number of responses and the council is
currently considering these.
Copy of the Town Centre concept plan.
ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH:
Food Premises
There are a total of 189 food premises in the Berri Barmera area. Eight of the businesses were classified as
high risk, which includes such activities as hospitals, aged and child care facilities. Council undertakes to inspect
these premises at least once per year.
Business
Type
High risk
Medium Risk
Low risk
Community /
Charity
Totals
Number of
Businesses
8
97
46
38
Routine
Inspections
10
46
14
0
Follow Up
Inspections
1
9
0
0
Complaint
Inspections
0
6
0
0
189
70
10
6
Warnings were sent to two business premises and two improvement notices and an expiation notice were
served on one business.
There were ten complaints received in relation to food premises These complaints related to food being unsafe
due to foreign materials, food being unsuitable /unsafe due to microbial contamination /growth, food being
unsuitable/unsafe due to the presence of unapproved or excessive chemical residues, refuse storage, food
cooked in a shed, food sold past a use by date and an alleged operation of an abattoir.
Councils Environmental Health Officer has recently undertaken training to qualify as a Department of Health
approved auditor.
SA Food Handler updates are mailed to high and medium risk businesses and community/charity groups four
times a year.
Public and Environmental Health
The Council continued to fulfil its responsibilities pursuant to this Act. A total of six premises were inspected to
ensure their compliance with the relevant standards. The three warm water systems in the district were
inspected There are a total of 14 public pools and spas in the district. All pool operators were advised of training
opportunities to develop their operational skills.
A total of eight complaints were received from the public in relation to public health matters and as a result some
14 inspections were undertaken. Accumulated rubbish and pest infestations were the chief causes of
Page … 79
complaints, followed by persons undertaking offensive activities. In response one notice was served on an
individual who was undertaking such an activity.
Over the last year the one tattoo parlour in the district was inspected. There are 16 hairdressing and beauty
salons in the district which were not inspected this year.
Waste Control systems
Development continues to occur with new housing both within the towns and in the rural areas. The following
activities were undertaken in response to waste control systems:
Type of System
Septic Tank – CWMS
Aerobic System
Soakage
Defective/Illegal Installation
Total
Number of applications
40
18
12
70
Number of routine inspections
66
14
17
8
97
Seven complaints were received regarding waste control systems. The complaints related to either defective
systems or illegal installations. All the complaints were found to be justified and have either been rectified are
the required works are being undertaken. One maintenance order was issued for a defective waste control
system.
Council engages a contactor to undertake a desludging program of all the septic tanks connected to the
Community Wastewater Management System (CWMS). On a rotational basis each septic tank is pumped about
every four years. In reporting on his operations the contactor includes details on the location of septic tanks and
the condition of such tanks. This has allowed Council to continue to develop its database on the location and
condition of septic tanks in the district. Council notifies the respective owners of any defects and action required
to bring the tank to the relevant standards.
Immunisation
A school base immunisation program is provided for the Riverland Special School and both the Glossop middle
and senior school campuses. In 2007 a clinic was established at the Glossop senior campus to implement the
HPV (cervical cancer vaccine) catch up program. Follow up clinics are also provided one week after each school
clinic to ensure that all students are provided with adequate opportunities to attend.
Type of vaccination
Hepatises B
DTPa ( Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis)
Varicella (Chicken Pox)
HPV ( cervical cancer)
Total
Total number of vaccinations
236
132
51
503
922
Mosquito Control
The Mosquito and Plant Research Laboratory at the University of South Australia provides mosquito
surveillance ands spot control between the months of September to April. This was the ninth consecutive year of
this surveillance.
Page … 80
The current drought conditions affecting the Riverland and the lack of irrigation has significantly reduced the
amount of surface water in the district. A total of 599 adult mosquitoes were trapped in the Council area during
the season. This was only 13% of the previous seasons catch and less than half of the average adult catch
since the monitoring program began. All previously identified Laval habitats encountered over the previous
seven years were regularly monitored by dipping when ever these habitats held water and appropriate
treatments were applied.
DOG AND CAT MANAGEMENT:
Council has responsibility for dog and cat management in accordance with the Cat and Dog Management Act
1995. Over the 2007/08 period there were 2272 dogs registered within the council area.
Following a process of public consultation Council adopted an Animal Management Plan in accordance with the
requirements of the Act. This plan provides Council with a sound basis and direction from which it can plan, coordinate and make future decisions to meet the needs of the community over the next five years. It aims to
establish management guidelines where people and their pets can integrate harmoniously within the Berri
Barmera community.
Money was allocated in the 2007/08 budget to design a new dog pound. Following consultation with the Dog
and Cat Management Board a facility has been designed that satisfies the relevant standards as well as
addressing occupational health and safety matters.
Expenditure on dog and cat management exceeded the income derived from dog registrations. In total 171 dogs
were impounded of which 101 were either returned to their owners or alternative accommodation was found.
Wandering dogs complaints (235), dog attacks (58) and barking dogs (40) were the most significant issues
associated with the officers activities. A total of 58 expiation notices were issued in relation to dog and cat
management.
PARKING CONTROL:
Council maintained a process of enforcement of its parking controls. Parking restrictions continue to apply in the
towns of Berri and Barmera and are enforced by Councils General Inspector. In total some 175 parking
expiation notices were issued.
Council reviewed the policy adopted in 2006/07 that established two permit only carparking areas to allow for
the business community within the town of Berri to have access to all day car-parking spaces in close proximity
to the places of business. Minor changes were made to the policy inline with comments received for the current
permit holders, which allowed for greater flexibility in the issuing of the permits. In broad terms the policy has
been successful in achieving what it sought to do and the uptake of parking spaces continues to be supported.
BUSHFIRE PREVENTION:
As required Council have an established Bushfire Prevention Committee that includes members of the various
fire authorities. This meets three times a year.
Council experienced one significant bushfire for our region at Cobdogla in November 2007. Council played a
role in monitoring and managing the impacts of this fire. Council continues to maintain firebreaks and where
appropriate undertake the required measures on land under its care and control.
Page … 81
Bruno Bay bushfire, November 2007
The drought has had a significant impact on the horticultural blocks due to the supply of water being restricted
and in some cases switched off. This has meant that existing plantings have been left to die posing a significant
fire hazard for the coming 2008/09 summer season. The committee will continue to monitor these land holdings
and as required issue the required clean up notices.
Over the year 57 clean up notices were issued. In total the Council issued 63 permits under the Fire and
Emergency Services Act to burn during the fire danger season. The type of activities that these permits cover
include burning off stubble, old plantings and rubbish, BBQs, training purposes, burning general garden waste
and disposing of drug crops. An additional 7 permits were issued to burn on a total fire ban day.
The Committee also reviewed the District Bushfire Prevention Plan and this is to be forwarded to the Council for
adoption.
RIVERFRONT/FORESHORE AND OPEN SPACE PLANNING:
Council has two foreshore committees, being the Lake Bonney Redevelopment Advisory Committee (LBRAC)
and the Berri Riverfront Redevelopment Committee (BRRC). The first of these committees has a role in
developing the Barmera /Lake Bonney foreshore and the second the Berri riverfront area.
Following an extensive period of public consultation Council adopted a master plan for the foreshore areas of
Barmera. A number of public forums were held to canvass the community‟s views through the various stages of
the project and some 34 written responses were received. As a result the Lake Bonney foreshore master plan
was produced. This plan not only seeks to visually enhance the foreshore area through urban design and
landscaping but to also improve on the connectivity of the main street in Barmera with the foreshore area and to
stimulate the untapped economic opportunities that the location provides, particularly in terms of tourism.
The Riverfront Committee only met on one occasion this financial year. This was to discuss the current status of
the riverfront and the erection of a number of shelters. The role of this committee will increase as the town
centre redevelopment project proceeds.
Page … 82
Berri Riverfont
The Council continues to be involved with both developers and the landowners in the area known as Berri west
to encourage the development of a co-ordinated approach to the provision of both infrastructure and open
space. Where possible Council seeks to combine the development of stormwater storage/management facilities
with the development of open space.
Martin Bend is a recreational/camping area to the east of Berri that is utilised by both visitors to the region and
the local population. The Lions Club of Berri have undertaken a range of works to this area that have included
erecting walkways, barriers to vehicle access and general maintenance that have significantly improved the
appearance and attraction of this area.
ANIMAL AND PLANT CONTROL:
In response to general community concerns the Council undertook a program of pigeon control. Ongoing
maintenance of this is required to ensure that pigeon numbers continue to be controlled.
The Berri Barmera Council is a member of the Riverland Local Government NRM Advisory Group established
by the SA Murray Darling Basin Natural Resources management board. The role of this group is to help shape
relevant Natural Resource management policy, processes and projects within the region.
COMMUNITY WASTEWATER /MANAGEMENT/PLANNING/MAINTENANCE:
Council entered into a into a 25 year agreement with United Utilities to build, own, operate and transfer the
wastewater treatment facilities. In effect United Utilities will talk over the management of three effluent ponds
and three large pump stations. This scheme treats all the waste water generated by the common wastewater
system and additional waste waters produced by private industrial developments in the area. This will produce
about 500-600 megalitres per year of water that will be available for use on public spaces in the towns of Berri
and Barmera.
The western part of the town of Berri has approximately 70 hectares of land zoned for residential purposes that
is currently in horticultural production. The Berri west infrastructure study produced a plan for the expansion of
Page … 83
the wastewater treatment facilities to this area and the required upgrade of adjoining facilities in the locality.
Upgrades to the existing infrastructure in the locality to accommodate the expansion have been included in the
works associated with the wastewater scheme. A central pump station is to be provided to service the Berri west
area. This will be incorporated into the larger waste water reuse scheme and be under the management of
United Utilities for the 25 year period.
Contractors on Councils behalf maintain maintenance of the system, which includes approximately 30 pump
stations of various sizes and the related pipe network. A database on the condition of the assets is being
developed.
PROPERTY MANAGEMENT AND MAINTENANCE
There are approximately 80 buildings located on land that is either owned by the Council or under its care and
control. These buildings are used for a variety of purposes and by a number of community and sporting groups.
In 2006/07 Council undertook a review of five of its major building assets, being the Bonney Theatre and
Hawdon Chambers, the Berri Council offices and Town Hall, Rockys Hall of Fame and the Barmera Recreation
Centre. This project was due for completion in the 2007/08 year but has been deferred until the 2008/09 year.
An assessment on the condition of the Berri swimming pool has been commissioned however the results of this
are yet to be completed. This purpose of this report is to guide Council in relation to the structural integrity of the
pool, its long-term future and maintenance and the implications of this to the proposed Berri recreation centre.
A new air-conditioning system was in stalled for the Senior Citizens building in Berri. Likewise a new storage
shed has been constructed on the Berri oval to provide storage facilities for a range of sporting groups. This
building has been designed to be demountable to allow for its relocation.
Design work of the new amenities building to replace the existing facility on Vaughan Terrace, Berri, has been
completed. Tenders for the works are to be called. The current facilities are in urgent need of upgrading.
Page … 84
INFRASTRUCTURE SERVICES
Kerbing Nookamka Terrace
Lake Bonney Foreshore – Yacht Club Boat Ramp Facility
Construction Works
Road Maintenance Works
Footpaths / Gopher Routes Construction
Waste Management
Stormwater Drainage Study
Cemeteries
Monash Adventure Park - Upgrade
Page … 85
INFRASTRUCTURE
Department Committees:
Standing Committees:
Infrastructure Services Committee
Specific Purposes Committees:
Berri Riverfront Redevelopment Advisory Committee
Lake Bonney Redevelopment Advisory Committee
Waste Water Re-Use Project Committee
Cemetery Advisory Committee
Mr Tom King
Manager Infrastructure
Services
The Infrastructure Services Department is responsible for the management and
operations of the following functions of Council:
●
Cemeteries
●
Public Conveniences
●
Waste Management
●
Street Cleaning
●
Public Lighting
●
Foreshore Protection
●
Parks & Gardens
●
Sport & Recreation
●
Quarries
●
Road Maintenance
●
Stormwater Drainage
●
Parking Off Street
●
Plant Operations
●
Depot & Overhead
●
Vandalism
●
Private Works
To effectively implement the management and operations of the Department the following Staffing Structure
applies:
Manager Infrastructure Services
Asset Management Officer (1)
Personal Admin. Assistant (1)
Infrastructure Contractors
Parks & Gardens
Team - Barmera
Parks & Gardens
Team - Berri
Infrastructure
Maintenance Team
Page … 86
Infrastructure
Construction Team
Workshop /
Depot Team
Lake Bonney Foreshore – Yacht Club Boat Ramp Facility
Council applied for and received Recreational Boating Facilities Levy Funding for the upgrading of the boat
ramp adjacent to the Barmera Yacht Club, to provide a temporary safe workable ramp for users of the Lake.
Provision has been made in the 08/09 budget for the design of a two lane boat ramp to be constructed in this
area
Construction Works
As with previous years, Council has completed several road construction / upgrade projects in 2007/08
McKay Road Realignment
Council successfully lodged a funding application in 2006/07 through the Murray Mallee Local Government
Association, seeking funds under the Special Local Roads Programme for the realignment of McKay Road.
This project will incorporate realignment of the road away from its present frontage with National Foods and Visy
Board. The road will be constructed on a new alignment using the old railway corridor together with the upgrade
of the Jury Road / Tooravale Road intersection for increased safety. Once upgraded, it will become apart of a
regional freight route, providing access to local industries.
During the year, tenders were to be called to commence construction once land acquisition issues were settled.
Unfortunately, this project has stalled with major issues dealing with relocation of service authorities‟
infrastructure within the old rail corridor as well as the need for ongoing negotiations with adjoining landowners
for land acquisitions.
In consultation with Council‟s consultants, it has been proposed to construct this project in two stages with stage
one being the construction of the deviation route through the old rail corridor and reconstruction of a section of
the old road between National Foods and Visy Board. Stage two will be the realignment of the Jury Road /
Tooravale Road intersection as well as the reconstruction of Jury Road either side of this intersection. By having
this two stage construction process allows Council the flexibility to continue with land acquisition negotiations
whilst stage one is being completed thus giving a seamless transition into stage two once these negotiations are
completed.
It is anticipated that tenders for stage one will be called early in 2008/09.
Page … 87
Mills Road Design / Sealing
Mills road has been a „bone‟ of contention for some time now, with residents continually complaining about the
road surface. Petitions have been presented to Council requesting the consideration for bitumising of the road
as a matter of urgency. At the time, Council considered that the road was not a high enough priority to justify
construction. Consequently the road missed out on funding in successive budgets from 2005/06 until finally
being included in the 2007/08 budget as one of the projects to be completed under the roads o recovery funding
Tonkin Consulting were asked to provide a design of the road in accordance with the following parameters:
 6m road width
 minimal tree clearance
 ongoing solutions to stop the road becoming a speed track once sealed
Two options were tabled at the February 2008 meeting of Council being:
1. A 5m sealed road with 0.5m unsealed shoulders providing two way through access between the Old
Sturt Highway and Riverview Drive. „Slow points‟ to be installed at relevant locations to prevent the
road becoming a speed way.
2. A 5m sealed road with 0.5m unsealed shoulders created as two cul-de-sacs with entry / exit points
from the Old Sturt Highway and Riverview Drive.
After initial consultation with several residents who live in the strip, option 2 was modified to a 6m sealed width
with no shoulders as it was thought that there would be maintenance problems generated by the unsealed
shoulders. Option 2 becoming Council‟s preferred option and was put to an on site meeting of residents with the
majority rejecting this proposal
Further consultation with the residents will be carried out with this work being carried over into the 2008/09
budget for construction.
Old Sturt Highway – Service Road
Works carried out in this area by Council‟s construction team has been the installation of roll over kerbing, small
stormwater drainage detention basin, pine log barriers and sealing of the road and car park area. Linemarking to
delineate car parking areas and road edges will see this project completed
Queen Elizabeth Drive – Kerb and Verge Sealing
Following the Lake Vista STEDS upgrade, kerb replacement and verge sealing works has been carried out by
Council
Page … 88
Dean Drive – Kerb Construction
Council also undertook the widening of Dean Drive in Barmera to tidy up the area adjacent to the Skate Park
and Basketball/Netball Courts.
Powell Street – Kerb Construction
Kerbing and verge sealing in this area has helped to rectify a storm water run off problem
Road Maintenance Works
Roads are the most expensive (and most used) asset of the Council and the Community, with expenditure on
road maintenance increased during the 2007/08 year.
Council‟s road maintenance (which includes pot hole repairs, patching, signs etc.) was in the vicinity of
$585,000.
$100,000 was allocated for resealing Council‟s roads (both Town and District). This work is allocated based on
asset condition but generally roads will be resealed every 10 – 14 years.
An amount of $100,000 was allocated for the resheeting / rerubbling of unsealed roads. This work being
allocated based on a priority list identified by engineering staff using a detailed set of criteria as approved by
Council.
A further $170,000 was expended during the year on the general maintenance of Council‟s unsealed road
network
A significant amount of private works associated with the reinstatement of road surfaces due to the installation
of the new pipe lines for the waste water reuse scheme was carried also out by Council‟s maintenance team
Page … 89
Footpaths / Gopher Routes Construction
Vaughan Terrace Berri
McGilton Road Berri
Council has in the past, predominantly constructed concrete paved footpaths within the Central Business District
of the major towns.
In response to popular Community demand, Council has decided to speed up the upgrade of Council footpaths.
All works will be carried out in accordance to a long term footpath upgrade program as developed by
engineering staff in 2005/06 and will integrate with Council‟s long term gopher route program.
Where a footpath also acts as a gopher route, Council has decided to construct these paths in „hot mix‟. This
type of surface is neater and does not leave a lot of loose stones that are a pedestrian hazard. The footpaths
are smoother which are therefore far easier for people with some form of disability or restricted mobility to
negotiate.
Gopher Routes
In accordance with the gopher route program, developed and endorsed by Council, the following sections of
footpaths have been upgraded to gopher friendly standards (2 metre wide hot mix)
Berri
 McGilton Road– Kay Ave. to Gilbert St.
 Vaughan Terrace – Fiedler Street to Merritt Ave.
Barmera
 Nookamka Terrace – Sturt Street to entrance of new Bonneyview Cottages
 Hawdon Street - Nookamka Terrace to Scott Ave.
 Scott Avenue - Hawdon Street to Hawdon House
Cobdogla
 Shueard Road – Park Terrace to Caravan Park
Page … 90
Footpaths
The following 1.5metre paved footpaths were constructed in 2007/08
Berri
 Crawford Terrace– Wilson St. to Coneybeer St.
Cobdogla
 Rowe Street – Payne Street to Park Terrace
Loveday
 Morris Street – eastern side 1.5m spray seal
Nookamka Terrace Barmera
Hawdon Street Barmera
Waste Management
Regional Waste Management Strategy and Future Planning
In line with the State Government drive towards waste minimization Council is working with the Murray Mallee
Local Government Association Waste Management Committee and the Riverland Councils as a sub region of
assisting with further investigation, coordination and public educational works relating to various waste
management aspects and recycling activities.
This project will also include the preparation of management and closure plans for Council‟s landfill sites along
with planning of a waste transfer station, enhanced recycling facilities and regional landfill site. Council‟s future
planning will be integrated with the Riverland Council‟s regional approach. To this end, Council has been
successful in securing funding of $150,000 from Zero Waste for the establishment of a waste transfer station at
the Monash landfill site.
There is still a lot of work, discussion and negotiation to be undertaken before this facility is constructed.
However, it is envisaged that construction will be undertaken in the coming 2008/09 financial year.
Page … 91
Stormwater Drainage Study
Study to identify the deficiencies in the existing stormwater infrastructure and propose changes and
recommendations in order to improve the stormwater flow and alleviate / minimize any future flooding.
Council was successful in obtaining a grant of $50,000 from the SA MDB NRM Board to offset the costs of
undertaking this study in the major townships.
Engineering firm, Wallbridge and Gilbert were engaged to undertake the study with work commencing in mid
January to determine the location and flowpath of existing infrastructure before making recommendations for
future requirements of current and future development in the townships. This work is envisaged to be ongoing in
the early part of the next financial year.
Cemeteries
In order to fulfill Community expectations towards maintaining the local cemeteries in pristine condition, Council
allocated $10,000 to provide for suitable and appropriate furniture and memorial plaques. Extra bench seating
has been installed in both the Berri and Barmera cemeteries for the convenience of visitors.
Monash Adventure Park – Upgrade Works
Through Council‟s program of monthly inspections, several concerns dealing with risk management needed to
be addressed by Council. Of main concern was the removal of tyres from under some play equipment and the
replacement of perma-pine borders with concrete kerb edging. In order to undertake the work safely, the park
was closed to the public for a two-week period prior to the October school holidays. Work undertaken during this
period was:
 The removal of tyres from under the flying fox and giant swing with replacement with suitable soft fall
material.
 Installation of approximately 145m of concrete kerb edging
 The painting of the two towers and kiosk
 Repairs and replacement of some items of play equipment
The ongoing replacement of playground equipment is aimed at ensuring Council provides the latest, safest and
most innovative play equipment. As such, a further risk assessment was undertaken of the safety of the flying
fox. Council management in conjunction with Council‟s insurers deemed that this item of play equipment should
be removed.
The other major works carried out in the park was the necessary upgrade/ alteration to the existing toilet in order
to make it disabled friendly.
Page … 92
THE BERRI BARMERA COUNCIL
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS FOR THE YEAR 2007 / 2008
Page … 93
Berri Barmera Council
General Purpose Financial Report
for the year ended 30 June 2008
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
Principal Financial Statements
Income Statement
Balance Sheet
Statement of Changes in Equity
Cash Flow Statement
1
2
3
4
Notes to, and forming part of, the Principal Financial Statements
Note 1
Note 2
Note 3
Note 4
Note 5
Note 6
Note 7
-
Note 8 Note 9 Note 10 Note 11 Note 12 Note 13 Note 14 Note 15 Note 16 Note 17 Note 18 Note 19 -
Significant Accounting Policies
Income
Expenses
Gain or Loss on Disposal of Assets
Current Assets
Non-Current Assets
Infrastructure, Property, Plant & Equipment
& Investment Property
Liabilities
Reserves
Reconciliation of Cash Flow Statement
Functions
Financial Instruments
Expenditure Commitments
Financial Indicators
Uniform Presentation of Finances
Operating Leases
Superannuation
Joint Ventures & Associated Entities
Assets & Liabilities not Recognised
CEO Statement
Audit Report
Council Certificates of Audit Independence
Audit Certificate of Audit Independence
Page … 94
N1
N8
N11
N13
N14
N15
N16
N19
N20
N21
N22
N24
N27
N28
N19
N30
N31
N32
N33
Berri Barmera Council
INCOME STATEMENT
for the year ended 30 June 2008
Notes
INCOME
Rates
Statutory charges
User charges
Grants, subsidies and contributions
Investment income
Reimbursements
Other income
Total Income
2
2
2
2
2
2
2
EXPENSES
Employee costs
Materials, contracts & other expenses
Finance costs
Depreciation, amortisation & impairment
Total Expenses
3
3
3
3
OPERATING SURPLUS / (DEFICIT)
2008
$
2007
$
7,300,659
192,473
281,367
2,413,719
205,926
680,158
317,457
11,391,759
6,616,086
162,384
261,375
2,884,849
159,935
265,356
258,541
10,608,526
3,868,580
5,405,875
218,594
3,586,345
13,079,394
4,267,742
4,763,249
168,570
3,237,166
12,436,727
(1,687,635)
(1,828,201)
Net gain (loss) on disposal or revaluation of assets
4
(639,207)
272,155
Amounts received specifically for new or upgraded assets
2
345,000
-
SIGNIFICANT ITEM - Expenditure incurred for design
and construction of Wastewater Re-use Scheme
3
(4,661,582)
3,936,166
(6,643,424)
2,380,120
NET SURPLUS / (DEFICIT)
This Statement is to be read in conjunction with the attached Notes.
Page … 95
Berri Barmera Council
BALANCE SHEET
as at 30 June 2008
ASSETS
Current Assets
Cash and cash equivalents
Trade & other receivables
Inventories
Notes
5
5
5
Total Current Assets
Non-current Assets
Financial Assets
Infrastructure, Property, Plant & Equipment
Total Non-current Assets
Total Assets
LIABILITIES
Current Liabilities
Trade & Other Payables
Borrowings
Provisions
6
7
8
8
8
Total Current Liabilities
Non-current Liabilities
Borrowings
Provisions
8
8
Total Non-current Liabilities
Total Liabilities
NET ASSETS
EQUITY
Accumulated Surplus
Asset Revaluation Reserve
Other Reserves
TOTAL EQUITY
9
9
This Statement is to be read in conjunction with the attached Notes.
Page … 96
2008
$
2007
$
1,745,789
1,475,477
529,344
3,750,610
3,750,610
2,558,681
4,010,504
403,967
6,973,152
6,973,152
405,348
121,229,896
121,635,244
125,385,854
203,434
55,386,904
55,590,338
62,563,490
2,609,467
473,743
317,552
3,400,762
3,400,762
1,172,900
734,897
33,162
1,940,959
1,940,959
2,674,382
101,552
2,775,934
6,176,696
119,209,158
2,790,071
300,612
3,090,683
5,031,642
57,531,848
16,849,550
99,253,142
3,106,466
119,209,158
20,171,492
30,932,408
6,427,948
57,531,848
Berri Barmera Council
STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN EQUITY
for the year ended 30 June 2008
2008
$
2007
$
Notes
ACCUMULATED SURPLUS
Balance at end of previous reporting period
Net Surplus / (Deficit) for Year
Transfers to Other Reserves
Transfers from Other Reserves
20,171,492
(6,643,424)
(946,635)
4,268,117
21,612,020
2,380,120
(6,572,360)
2,751,712
Balance at end of period
16,849,550
20,171,492
Balance at end of previous reporting period
Gain on revaluation of infrastructure, property, plant &
equipment
30,932,408
29,780,091
68,320,734
1,152,317
Balance at end of period
99,253,142
30,932,408
6,427,948
946,635
(4,268,117)
2,607,300
6,572,360
(2,751,712)
3,106,466
6,427,948
119,209,158
57,531,848
68,320,734
68,320,734
1,152,317
1,152,317
ASSET REVALUATION RESERVE
9
OTHER RESERVES
9
Balance at end of previous reporting period
Transfers from Accumulated Surplus
Transfers to Accumulated Surplus
Balance at end of period
TOTAL EQUITY AT END OF REPORTING
PERIOD
Total of all revenues recognised directly in Equity
Total of all expenses recognised directly in Equity
NET CHANGE IN EQUITY
This Statement is to be read in conjunction with the attached Notes
Page … 97
Berri Barmera Council
CASH FLOW STATEMENT
for the year ended 30 June 2008
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES
Receipts
Operating receipts
Investment receipts
Payments
Operating payments to suppliers & employees
Finance payments
Net Cash provided by (or used in) Operating Activities
Notes
11(b)
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES
Receipts
Amounts specifically for new or upgraded assets
Sale of replaced assets
Sale of real estate developments
Repayments of loans by community groups
Payments
Expenditure on renewal/replacement of assets
Expenditure on new/upgraded assets
Development of real estate for sale
Loans made to community groups
Net Cash provided by (or used in) Investing Activities
2008
$
2007
$
14,862,352
205,926
6,852,928
159,935
(14,116,520)
(214,296)
(9,741,912)
(106,669)
737,462
(2,835,718)
345,000
63,955
153,637
27,822
3,936,166
465,232
(802,641)
(447,732)
(262,952)
(250,600)
(643,772)
(2,481,788)
(95,678)
(10,000)
(1,173,511)
40,222
1,210,382
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES
Receipts
Proceeds from Borrowings
Payments
Repayments of Borrowings
(878,575)
(660,244)
Net Cash provided by (or used in) Financing Activities
(133,575)
828,756
Net Increase (Decrease) in cash held
(569,624)
(796,580)
Cash & cash equivalents at beginning of period
Cash & cash equivalents at end of period
745,000
5
This Statement is to be read in conjunction with the attached Notes
Page … 98
2,315,413
1,745,789
1,489,000
3,111,993
2,315,413
Berri Barmera Council
NOTES TO AND FORMING PART OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
for the year ended 30 June 2008
Note 1 - SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
The principal accounting policies adopted in the preparation of the financial report are set out below.
These policies have been consistently applied to all the years presented, unless otherwise stated.
1
Basis of Preparation
1.1
Compliance with Australian equivalents to International Financial Reporting Standards
This general purpose financial report has been prepared in accordance with Australian equivalents to
International Financial Reporting Standards (AIFRS) as they apply to not-for-profit entities, other
authoritative pronouncements of the Australian Accounting Standards Board, Urgent Issues Group
Interpretations (UIGs) and relevant South Australian legislation.
The financial report was authorised for issue by certificate under clause 11 of the Local Government
(Financial Management) Regulations 1999. The General Purpose Financial Report for the year ended 30
June 2008 was adopted by Council at its meeting of 25 November 2008.
1.2
Historical Cost Convention
Except where stated below, these financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the
historical cost convention.
1.3
Critical Accounting Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with AIFRS requires the use of certain critical
accounting estimates, and requires management to exercise its judgement in applying Council’s
accounting policies. The areas involving a higher degree of judgement or complexity, or areas where
assumptions and estimates are significant to the financial statements are specifically referred to in the
relevant sections of this Note.
2
The Local Government Reporting Entity
Berri Barmera Council is incorporated under the SA Local Government Act 1999 and has its principal place
of business at 19 Wilson Street, Berri. These financial statements include the consolidated fund and all
entities through which Council controls resources to carry on its functions. In the process of reporting on
the Council as a single unit, all transactions and balances between activity areas and controlled entities
have been eliminated.
Trust monies and property held by Council but subject to the control of other persons have been excluded
from these reports. A separate statement of moneys held in the Trust Fund is available for inspection at
the Council Office by any person free of charge.
3
Income recognition
Income is measured at the fair value of the consideration received or receivable. Income is recognised
when the Council obtains control over the assets comprising the income, or when the amount due
constitutes an enforceable debt, whichever first occurs.
Where grants, contributions and donations recognised as incomes during the reporting period were
obtained on the condition that they be expended in a particular manner or used over a particular period,
and those conditions were undischarged as at the reporting date, the amounts subject to those
undischarged conditions are disclosed in these notes. Also disclosed is the amount of grants, contributions
and receivables recognised as incomes in a previous reporting period which were obtained in respect of
the Council's operations for the current reporting period.
Berri Barmera Council
NOTES TO AND FORMING PART OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
for the year ended 30 June 2008
Note 1 - Significant Accounting Policies (cont)
4
Cash, Cash Equivalents and other Financial Instruments
Cash Assets include all amounts readily convertible to cash on hand at Council’s option with an
insignificant risk of changes in value with a maturity of three months or less from the date of acquisition.
Receivables for rates and annual charges are secured over the subject land, and bear interest at rates
determined in accordance with the Local Government Act 1999. Other receivables are generally
unsecured and do not bear interest.
All receivables are reviewed as at the reporting date and adequate allowance made for amounts the
receipt of which is considered doubtful.
All financial instruments are recognised at fair value at the date of recognition. A detailed statement of the
accounting policies applied to financial instruments forms part of Note 13.
5
Inventories
Inventories held in respect of stores have been valued by using the weighted average cost on a continual
basis, after adjustment for loss of service potential. Inventories held in respect of business undertakings
have been valued at the lower of cost and net realisable value.
5.1
Real Estate Assets Developments
Real Estate Assets developments have been classified as Inventory in accordance with AASB 102 and are
valued at the lower of cost or net realisable value. Cost includes the costs of acquisition, development,
borrowing and other costs incurred on financing of that acquisition and up to the time of sale. Any amount
by which cost exceeds the net realisable value has been recognised as an expense.
Revenues arising from the sale of property are recognised in the operating statement when settlement is
completed.
5.1
Other Real Estate held for resale
Properties not acquired for development, but which Council has decided to sell as surplus to requirements,
are recognised at the carrying value at the time of that decision.
Certain properties, auctioned for non-payment of rates in accordance with the Local Government Act but
which failed to meet the reserve set by Council and are available for sale by private treaty, are recorded at
the lower of the unpaid rates and charges at the time of auction or the reserve set by Council. Holding
costs in relation to these properties are recognised as an expense when incurred.
6
Infrastructure, Property, Plant & Equipment
6.1
Transitional Provisions
Council has elected not to recognise land under roads in accordance with the deferral arrangements
available under AASB 1045 which expire 30 June 2008. As at 1 July 2008, Council has elected not to
recognise any values for land under roads acquired before the commencement of AASB 1051 Land Under
Roads.
All non-current assets purchased or constructed are capitalised as the expenditure is incurred and
depreciated as soon as the asset is held “ready for use”.
Page … 100
Berri Barmera Council
NOTES TO AND FORMING PART OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
for the year ended 30 June 2008
Note 1 - Significant Accounting Policies (cont)
6.2
Initial Recognition
All assets are initially recognised at cost. Cost is determined as the fair value of the assets given as
consideration plus costs incidental to the acquisition, including architects' fees and engineering design fees
and all other costs incurred. For assets acquired at no cost or for nominal consideration, cost is
determined as fair value at the date of acquisition. The cost of non-current assets constructed by the
Council includes the cost of all materials used in construction, direct labour on the project and an
appropriate proportion of variable and fixed overhead.
Capital works still in progress at balance date are recognised as other non-current assets and transferred
to infrastructure, property, plant & equipment when completed ready for use.
6.3
Materiality
Assets with an economic life in excess of one year are only capitalised where the cost of acquisition
exceeds materiality thresholds established by Council for each type of asset. In determining (and in
annually reviewing) such thresholds, regard is had to the nature of the asset and its estimated service life.
Examples of capitalisation thresholds applied during the year are as follows. No capitalisation threshold is
applied to the acquisition of land or interests in land.
Office Furniture & Equipment
Other Plant & Equipment
Buildings - new construction/extensions
Park & Playground Furniture & Equipment
Road construction & reconstruction
Paving & footpaths, Kerb & Gutter
Drains & Culverts
Reticulation extensions
Sidelines & household connections
Artworks
$1,000
$1,000
$10,000
$2,000
$10,000
$2,000
$5,000
$5,000
$5,000
$5,000
6.4
Subsequent Recognition
Certain asset classes are revalued on a regular basis such that the carrying values are not materially
different from fair value. For infrastructure and other asset classes where no active market exists, fair
value is determined to be the current replacement cost of an asset less, where applicable, accumulated
depreciation calculated on the basis of such cost to reflect the already consumed or expired future
economic benefits of the asset. Further detail of existing valuations, methods and valuers are provided at
Note 7.
6.5
Depreciation of Non-Current Assets
Other than land, all infrastructure, property, plant and equipment assets recognised are systematically
depreciated over their useful lives in a manner which reflects the consumption of the service potential
embodied in those assets.
Depreciation is recognised on a straight-line basis. Major depreciation periods for each class of asset are
shown below. Depreciation periods for infrastructure assets have been estimated based on the best
information available to Council, but appropriate records covering the entire life cycle of these assets are
not available, and extreme care should be used in interpreting financial information based on these
estimates.
Plant, Furniture & Equipment
Office Equipment
Office Furniture
Vehicles and Road-making Equip
Other Plant & Equipment
Building & Other Structures
Buildings – masonry
Buildings – other construction
Park Structures – masonry
Park Structures – other construction
Playground equipment
Benches, seats, etc
Page … 101
4 to 10 years
10 to 20 years
5 to 8 years
5 to 15 years
50 to 100 years
20 to 40 years
50 to 100 years
20 to 40 years
5 to 20 years
5 to 25 years
Berri Barmera Council
NOTES TO AND FORMING PART OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
for the year ended 30 June 2008
Note 1 - Significant Accounting Policies (cont)
Infrastructure
Road Surfaces – Sealed and Sheeted
Road Pavements – pavements under
sealed surfaces
Kerb and Gutter
Footpaths
Drains
Culverts
Flood Control Structures
Reticulation Pipes – PVC
Reticulation Pipes – other
Pumps & Telemetry
Other Assets
Library Books
Artworks
15 to 30 years
60 to 90 years
60 to 70 years
15 to 50 years
80 to 100 years
50 to 75 years
80 to 100 years
70 to 80 years
20 to 75 years
15 to 25 years
10 to 15 years
indefinite
6.6
Impairment
Assets that have an indefinite useful life are not subject to depreciation and are reviewed annually for
impairment. Assets that are subject to depreciation are reviewed for impairment whenever events or
changes in circumstances indicate that the carrying amount may not be recoverable. An impairment loss is
recognised for the amount by which the asset’s carrying amount exceeds its recoverable amount (which is
the higher of the present value of future cash outflows or value in use).
For assets whose future economic benefits are not dependent on the ability to generate cash flows, and
where the future economic benefits would be replaced if Council were deprived thereof, the value in use is
the depreciated replacement cost. In assessing impairment for these assets, a rebuttable assumption is
made that the current replacement cost exceeds the original cost of acquisition.
6.7
Borrowing Costs
Borrowing costs in relation to qualifying assets (net of offsetting investment revenue) have been capitalised
in accordance with the allowed alternative treatment in AASB 1023 “Borrowing Costs”. The amounts of
borrowing costs recognised as an expense or as part of the carrying amount of qualifying assets are
disclosed in Note 3, and the amount (if any) of interest revenue offset against borrowing costs in Note 2.
7
Payables
7.1
Goods & Services
Creditors are amounts due to external parties for the supply of goods and services and are recognised as
liabilities when the goods and services are received. Creditors are normally paid 30 days after the month
of invoice. No interest is payable on these amounts.
7.2
Payments Received in Advance & Deposits
Amounts received from external parties in advance of service delivery, and security deposits held against
possible damage to Council assets, are recognised as liabilities until the service is delivered or damage
reinstated, or the amount is refunded as the case may be.
8
Borrowings
Loans are carried at their principal amounts which represent the present value of future cash flows
associated with servicing the debt. Interest is accrued over the period to which it relates, and is recorded
as part of “Payables”. Interest free loans are carried at their nominal amounts; interest revenues foregone
by the lender effectively being a reduction of interest expense in the period to which it relates.
Page … 102
Berri Barmera Council
NOTES TO AND FORMING PART OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
for the year ended 30 June 2008
Note 1 - Significant Accounting Policies (cont)
9
Employee Benefits
9.1
Salaries, Wages & Compensated Absences
Liabilities for employees’ entitlements to salaries, wages and compensated absences expected to be paid
or settled within 12 months of reporting date are accrued at nominal amounts (including payroll based
oncosts) measured in accordance with AASB 119.
The methodology used to measure the current employee entitlements provision has been altered from that
utilised in the previous financial year. Entitlements calculated as payable to employees with 7 years or
more of service are treated as a current liability.
Liabilities for employee benefits not expected to be paid or settled within 12 months are measured as the
present value of the estimated future cash outflows (including payroll based oncosts) to be made in respect
of services provided by employees up to the reporting date. Present values are calculated using
government guaranteed securities rates with similar maturity terms.
No accrual is made for sick leave as Council experience indicates that, on average, sick leave taken in
each reporting period is less than the entitlement accruing in that period, and this experience is expected to
recur in future reporting periods. Council does not make payment for untaken sick leave.
9.2
Superannuation
The Council makes employer superannuation contributions in respect of its employees to the Local
Government Superannuation Scheme. The Scheme has two types of membership, each of which is
funded differently.
Accumulation Fund Members
The accumulation fund receives both employer and employee contributions on a progressive basis.
Employer contributions are normally based on a fixed percentage of employee earnings in accordance with
Superannuation Guarantee Legislation (9% in 2007/08; 9% in 2006/07). No further liability accrues to the
employer as the superannuation benefits accruing to employees are represented by their share of the net
assets of the Fund.
Defined Benefit Members
Council makes employer contributions to the defined benefits categories of the Scheme at rates
determined by the Scheme's Trustee. The rate is currently 9% (9% in 2006/2007) of superannuation salary.
Employees also make member contributions to the Fund. As such, assets accumulate in the Fund to meet
the member's benefits, as defined in the Trust Deed, as they accrue.
The Fund's Defined Benefit Plan is a multi-employer sponsored plan. As the Fund's assets and liabilities
are pooled and are not allocated by employer, the Actuary is unable allocate benefit liabilities, assets and
costs between employers. As provided by AASB 119.32(b), Council does not use defined benefit
accounting for these contributions.
10
Construction Contracts
Construction works undertaken by Council for third parties are generally on an agency basis where the
third party reimburses Council for actual costs incurred, and usually do not extend beyond the reporting
period. As there is no profit component, such works are treated as 100% completed. Reimbursements not
received are recognised as receivables and reimbursements received in advance are recognised as
“payments received in advance”.
11
Joint Ventures and Associated Entities
Council participates in cooperative arrangements with other Councils for the provision of services and
facilities.
Page … 103
Berri Barmera Council
NOTES TO AND FORMING PART OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
for the year ended 30 June 2008
Note 1 - Significant Accounting Policies (cont)
12
Leases
Lease arrangements have been accounted for in accordance with Australian Accounting Standard AASB
117.
In respect of finance leases, where Council substantially carries all of the risks incident to ownership, the
leased items are initially recognised as assets and liabilities equal in amount to the present value of the
minimum lease payments. The assets are disclosed as assets under lease, and are amortised to expense
over the period during which the Council is expected to benefit from the use of the leased assets. Lease
payments are allocated between interest expense and reduction of the lease liability, according to the
interest rate implicit in the lease.
In respect of operating leases, where the lessor substantially retains all of the risks and benefits incident to
ownership of the leased items, lease payments are charged to expense over the lease term.
13
GST Implications
In accordance with UIG Abstract 1031 “Accounting for the Goods & Services Tax”
 Receivables and Creditors include GST receivable and payable.
 Except in relation to input taxed activities, revenues and operating expenditures exclude
GST receivable and payable.
 Non-current assets and capital expenditures include GST net of any recoupment.
 Amounts included in the Statement of Cash Flows are disclosed on a gross basis.
14
Comparative Information
Comparative information has been reclassified to be consistent with the current year disclosure of
equivalent information in accordance with AIFRS.
15
New Accounting Standards
Certain new accounting standards and UIG interpretations have been published that are not mandatory for
the 30 June 2008 reporting period.

AASB 8
Operating Segments

AASB 101
Presentation of Financial Statements

AASB 123
Borrowing Costs

AASB 1004
Contributions

AASB 1050
Administered Items

AASB 1051
Land Under Roads

AASB 1052
Disaggregated Disclosures

AASB 2007-3
Amendments to Australian Accounting Standards arising from
AASB 8 [AASB 5, AASB 6, AASB 102, AASB 107, AASB 119, AASB 127,
AASB 134, AASB 136, AASB 1023 & AASB 1038]

AASB 2007-6
Amendments to Australian Accounting Standards arising from
AASB 123 [AASB 1, AASB 101, AASB 107, AASB 111, AASB 116 &
AASB 138 and Interpretations 1 & 12]

AASB 2007-8
Amendments to Australian Accounting Standards [AASB 1, AASB
2, AASB 4, AASB 5, AASB 107 & AASB 128]

AASB 2007-9
Amendments to Australian Accounting Standards arising from the
Review of AASs 27, 29 and 31 [AASB 3, AASB 5, AASB 8, AASB 101,
AASB 114, AASB 116, AASB 127 & AASB 137]

Interpretation 4
Determination whether an Arrangement contains a Lease

Interpretation 13
Customer Loyalty Programmes

Interpretation 14
AASB 119 – The Limit on a Defined Benefit Asset, Minimum
Funding Requirements and their Interaction
Page … 104
Berri Barmera Council
NOTES TO AND FORMING PART OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
for the year ended 30 June 2008
Note 1 - Significant Accounting Policies (cont)


Interpretation 129 Disclosure – Service Concession Arrangements
Interpretation 1038 Contributions by Owners Made to Wholly-Owned Public Sector
Entities
Council is of the view that none of the above new standards or interpretations will affect any of the amounts
recognised in the financial statements, but that they may impact certain information otherwise disclosed.
Page … 105
Berri Barmera Council
NOTES TO AND FORMING PART OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
for the year ended 30 June 2008
Note 2 - INCOME
Notes
RATES REVENUES
General Rates
Less: Mandatory and Discretionary rebates,
remissions & write offs
Other Rates (including service charges)
Natural Resource Management levy
Community wastewater management systems
Other Charges
Penalties for late payment
Legal & other costs recovered
2008
$
2007
$
5,739,945
5,400,140
(113,140)
(103,691)
5,626,805
5,296,449
65,511
1,549,935
1,615,446
75,656
1,193,823
1,269,479
58,408
50,158
58,408
50,158
7,300,659
6,616,086
27,121
95,518
61,943
7,151
740
192,473
35,405
55,599
62,228
8,198
954
162,384
28,100
132,805
14,246
106,216
281,367
42,418
25,003
17,592
176,362
261,375
184,540
13,194
8,192
205,926
134,056
16,384
9,495
159,935
Less: Discretionary rebates, remissions & write
offs
STATUTORY CHARGES
Development Act fees
Town planning fees
Animal registration fees & fines
Parking fines / expiation fees
Sundry
USER CHARGES
Cemetery/crematoria fees
Tourist Centre
Septic Tank Fees
Sundry
INVESTMENT INCOME
Interest on investments
Local Government Finance Authority
Banks & other
Loans to community groups
Page … 106
Berri Barmera Council
NOTES TO AND FORMING PART OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
for the year ended 30 June 2008
NOTE 2 - INCOME (continued)
2008
$
2007
$
145,834
202,340
264,600
67,384
680,158
28,829
201,648
317,457
317,457
258,541
258,541
345,000
2,413,719
2,758,719
The functions to which these grants relate are shown in Note 2.
3,936,166
2,884,849
6,821,015
Notes
REIMBURSEMENTS
- for private works
- by joint undertakings
- sporting clubs improvements
- other
OTHER INCOME
Sundry
GRANTS, SUBSIDIES, CONTRIBUTIONS
Amounts received specifically for new or
upgraded assets
Other grants, subsidies and contributions
Sources of grants
Commonwealth government
State government
Other
2,498,464
260,255
0
2,758,719
Page … 107
34,879
265,356
2,293,631
1,556,445
2,970,939
6,821,015
Berri Barmera Council
NOTES TO AND FORMING PART OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
for the year ended 30 June 2008
NOTE 2 - INCOME (continued)
Notes
2008
$
2007
$
Conditions over grants & contributions
Grants and contributions which were obtained on the condition that they be expended for
specified purposes or in a future period, but which are not yet expended in accordance with those
conditions, are as follows:
Unexpended at the close of the previous reporting period
Less: expended during the current period from
revenues recognised in previous reporting periods
Roads Infrastructure
Heritage & Cultural Services
Subtotal
Plus: amounts recognised as revenues in this reporting
period but not yet expended in accordance with the
conditions
Roads Infrastructure
Heritage & Cultural Services
Subtotal
Unexpended at the close of this reporting period and
Net increase (decrease) in assets subject to conditions
in the current reporting period
Page … 108
4,035,157
(98,991 )
(3,936,166 )
(4,035,157 )
98,991
3,936,166
4,035,157
4,035,157
(4,035,157 )
4,035,157
Berri Barmera Council
NOTES TO AND FORMING PART OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
for the year ended 30 June 2008
Note 3 - EXPENSES
Notes
EMPLOYEE COSTS
Salaries and Wages
Employee leave expense
Superannuation - defined contribution plan contributions
Superannuation - defined benefit plan contributions
Workers' Compensation Insurance
Voluntary Separation Payments
Less: Capitalised and distributed costs
Total Operating Employee Costs
20
20
Total Number of Employees
2007
$
2008
$
3,498,409
85,302
131,247
163,843
105,577
70,688
(186,486)
3,868,580
3,057,145
474,504
164,502
137,678
89,935
610,686
(266,708)
4,267,742
75
71
10,340
127,039
2,426
9,936
137,496
32,577
10,906
10,906
150,711
190,915
1,710,383
1,400,936
1,197,276
36,679
63,696
846,194
5,255,164
5,405,875
1,519,213
1,471,644
530,076
21,123
74,380
955,898
4,572,334
4,763,249
120,472
530,076
1,076,804
1,197,276
-
(Full time equivalent at end of reporting period)
MATERIALS, CONTRACTS & OTHER EXPENSES
Prescribed Expenses
Auditor's Remuneration
- Auditing the financial reports
Elected members' expenses
Election expenses
Operating Lease Rentals - cancellable leases
Operating Lease Rentals - non-cancellable leases
18
- minimum lease payments
- contingent rentals
Subtotal - Prescribed Expenses
Other Materials, Contracts & Expenses
Contractors
Materials
Individually Significant Items - see below
Legal Expenses
Levies paid to government - NRM levy
Sundry
Subtotal - Other Materials, Contracts & Expenses
INDIVIDUALLY SIGNIFICANT ITEMS (as above)
Sporting Clubs Improvements to facilities to be reimbursed.
United Utilities, Wastewater Re-Use Scheme Initial availability and volumetric
charges
SIGNIFICANT ITEM (per Income Statement)
United Utilities, Wastewater Re-Use Scheme Design and Construction Costs Contractual arrangement is "Build, Own, Operate, Transfer" (BOOT) . This
expenditure has not been capitalised in the accounts of Council as the asset is
not owned by Council.
Page … 109
4,661,582
Berri Barmera Council
NOTES TO AND FORMING PART OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
for the year ended 30 June 2008
Note 3 - EXPENSES (cont)
Notes
FINANCE COSTS
Interest on Loans
2008
$
218,594
218,594
DEPRECIATION, AMORTISATION & IMPAIRMENT
Depreciation
Land
Land Improvements
Buildings
Infrastructure
Plant & Machinery
Office Equipment
Other Assets
Less: Capitalised and distributed costs
Page … 110
834,236
2,237,025
438,729
120,650
(44,295)
3,586,345
2007
$
168,570
168,570
1,018,982
1,471,428
586,312
160,444
3,237,166
Berri Barmera Council
NOTES TO AND FORMING PART OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
for the year ended 30 June 2008
Note 4 - ASSET DISPOSAL & FAIR VALUE ADJUSTMENTS
Notes
INFRASTRUCTURE, PROPERTY, PLANT & EQUIPMENT
Assets renewed or directly replaced
Proceeds from disposal
Less: Carrying amount of assets sold
Gain (Loss) on disposal
Assets surplus to requirements
Proceeds from disposal
Less: Carrying amount of assets sold
Gain (Loss) on disposal
REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT ASSETS
Proceeds from disposal
Less: Carrying amount of assets sold
Gain (Loss) on disposal
2007
$
2008
$
63,955
52,225
11,730
1,459,776
1,187,621
272,155
664,079
(664,079)
-
153,637
140,495
13,142
-
0
0
(639,207)
272,155
FAIR VALUE ADJUSTMENTS
Investment property - fair value increase
Revaluation decrements previously expensed, now recouped
Revaluation decrements expensed
NET GAIN (LOSS) ON DISPOSAL OR REVALUATION
OF ASSETS
Page … 111
Berri Barmera Council
NOTES TO AND FORMING PART OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
for the year ended 30 June 2008
Note 5 - CURRENT ASSETS
CASH & EQUIVALENT ASSETS
Notes
Cash on Hand and at Bank
Deposits at Call
TRADE & OTHER RECEIVABLES
Rates - General & Other
Debtors - general
GST Recoupment
Prepayments
Loans to community organisations
Total
2008
$
412,292
1,333,497
1,745,789
2007
$
2,200
2,556,481
2,558,681
545,363
586,027
176,247
129,154
38,686
1,475,477
541,346
3,109,780
75,598
23,628
17,822
4,010,504
1,475,477
4,010,504
37,612
491,732
529,344
34,692
369,275
403,967
491,732
369,275
491,732
369,275
491,732
491,732
369,275
369,275
Less: Allowance for Doubtful Debts
INVENTORIES
Stores & Materials
Real Estate Developments
Real Estate Developments
(Valued at the lower of cost and net realisable value)
Residential
Industrial & Commercial
Total Real Estate for Resale
Represented by:
Development Costs
Total Real Estate for Resale
Page … 112
Berri Barmera Council
NOTES TO AND FORMING PART OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
for the year ended 30 June 2008
Note 6 - NON-CURRENT ASSETS
FINANCIAL ASSETS
Notes
2008
$
2007
$
405,348
405,348
203,434
203,434
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
Receivables
Loans to community organisations
OTHER NON-CURRENT ASSETS
Inventories
Stores & Materials
Trading Stock
Real Estate Developments
Other
Capital Works-in-Progress
Other
Real Estate Developments
(Valued at the lower of cost and net realisable value)
Residential
Industrial & Commercial
Other Properties surplus to
requirements
Total Real Estate for Resale
Page … 113
Berri Barmera Council
NOTES TO AND FORMING PART OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
for the year ended 30 June 2008
2007
$
AT FAIR
VALUE
AT COST
2008
$
ACCUM
DEP'N
CARRYING
AMOUNT
AT FAIR
VALUE
AT COST
ACCUM
DEP'N
CARRYING
AMOUNT
Note 7 - INFRASTRUCTURE, PROPERTY, PLANT & EQUIPMENT
Land
Land Improvements
Buildings & Structures
Infrastructure
Plant & Machinery
Office Equipment
Other assets
TOTAL PROPERTY, PLANT &
EQUIPMENT
2007 Totals
11,646,704
41,603,055
17,679,368
-
9,184,548
4,458,109
887,798
-
(19,643,387)
(8,111,805)
(1,809,537)
(507,949)
-
11,646,704
21,959,668
18,752,111
2,648,572
379,849
-
21,052,522
55,273,965
94,605,977
-
50,131
4,623,053
957,699
-
(25,169,122)
(27,347,222)
(2,188,508)
(628,599)
-
21,052,522
30,104,843
67,308,886
2,434,545
329,100
-
70,929,127
14,530,455
(30,072,678)
55,386,904
170,932,464
5,630,883
(55,333,451)
121,229,896
70,929,127
14,530,455
(30,072,678)
55,386,904
This Note continues on the following pages.
Page … 114
Berri Barmera Council
NOTES TO AND FORMING PART OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
for the year ended 30 June 2008
2007
$
CARRYING
AMOUNT
CARRYING AMOUNT MOVEMENTS DURING YEAR
$
Additions
New/Upgrade Renewals
Disposals
Depreciation
Impairment
2008
$
Blank
Net
Revaluation
CARRYING AMOUNT
Note 7 - INFRASTRUCTURE, PROPERTY, PLANT & EQUIPMENT
Land
Land Improvements
Buildings & Structures
Infrastructure
Plant & Machinery
Office Equipment
Other assets
TOTAL INFRASTRUCTURE,
PROPERTY, PLANT &
EQUIPMENT
2007 Totals
11,646,704
21,959,668
18,752,111
2,648,572
379,849
-
447,732
-
312,784
761,856
276,927
69,901
-
(664,078)
(52,225)
-
(1,354,238)
(1,717,023)
(438,729)
(120,650)
-
-
-
8,958,086
9,850,707
49,511,942
-
21,052,522
30,104,843
67,308,886
2,434,545
329,100
-
55,386,904
447,732
1,421,468
(716,303)
(3,630,640)
-
-
68,320,735
121,229,896
55,386,904
This Note continues on the following pages.
Page … 115
Berri Barmera Council
NOTES TO AND FORMING PART OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
for the year ended 30 June 2008
Note 7 (cont) – INFRASTRUCTURE, PROPERTY, PLANT & EQUIPMENT
Valuation of Assets
At 1 July 2004 upon the transition to AIFRS, Council elected pursuant to AASB 1.19 to retain a previously established
deemed cost under GAAP as its deemed cost for the purposes of AIFRS.
Plant, Furniture & Equipment
Pursuant to Council’s election, these assets are recognised on the cost basis.
Land & Land Improvements
Pursuant to Council’s election, freehold land and land over which Council has control, but does not have title,
is recognised on the cost basis. No capitalisation threshold is applied to the acquisition of land or interests in
land.
Land improvements, including bulk earthworks with an assessed unlimited useful life, and are derived from a
valuation at 30 June 2008 at written down current replacement cost. Additions are recognised at cost. The
revaluation was undertaken by Maloney Field Services (Australia) Pty. Ltd.
Estimated future costs of reinstatement of land, capitalised in accordance with AASB 116.16(c), are reviewed
annually (see Note 1) and depreciated over the estimated remaining life of the relevant asset.
Buildings & Other Structures
Building and other structures are recognised from a valuation at 30 June 2008 at written down current
replacement cost. Additions are recognised at cost. The revaluation was undertaken by Maloney Field
Services (Australia) Pty. Ltd.
Infrastructure
Roads infrastructure are recognised from a valuation at 30 June 2008 at written down current replacement
cost. Additions are recognised at cost. The revaluation was undertaken by Tonkin Consulting.
Stormwater drainage infrastructure was valued by Council officers as at 30 June 2006 at written down current
replacement cost, based on actual costs incurred during the reporting period ended 30 June 2006
All acquisitions made after the respective dates of valuation are recorded at cost.
Community wastewater management scheme infrastructure was valued by Council officers as at 30 June
2006 at written down current replacement cost, based on actual costs incurred during the reporting period
ended 30 June 2006. All acquisitions made after the respective dates of valuation are recorded at cost.
Page … 116
Berri Barmera Council
NOTES TO AND FORMING PART OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
for the year ended 30 June 2008
Note 8 - LIABILITIES
2008
$
TRADE & OTHER PAYABLES
Notes
Goods & Services
Payments received in advance
Accrued expenses - employee entitlements
Accrued expenses - other
BORROWINGS
Bank Overdraft
Loans
Current
2,097,858
26,783
367,891
116,935
2,609,467
473,743
473,743
2007
$
Non-current
Current
Non-current
-
646,561
21,856
414,445
90,038
1,172,900
-
2,674,382
2,674,382
243,268
491,629
734,897
2,790,071
2,790,071
33,162
33,162
300,612
300,612
All interest bearing liabilities are secured over the future revenues of the Council.
PROVISIONS
Employee entitlements (including oncosts)
317,552
317,552
Page … 117
101,552
101,552
Berri Barmera Council
NOTES TO AND FORMING PART OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
for the year ended 30 June 2008
Note 9 - RESERVES
ASSET REVALUATION RESERVE
1/07/2007
Notes
Land
Land Improvements
Buildings
Structures
Infrastructure
Total Infrastructure, Property, Plant
& Equipment
TOTAL
2007 Totals
$
Local Govt. Disabled Housing
Library
Cemetery
Local Govt. Housing
Land Development
District CWMS
Work In Progress
Open Space - Jarvis Street
CWMS Wastewater
TOTAL OTHER RESERVES
$
$
30/06/2008
$
8,958,086
30,932,408
6,397,953
3,452,754
49,511,941
6,397,953
3,452,754
80,444,349
30,932,408
68,320,734
99,253,142
30,932,408
68,320,734
99,253,142
29,780,091
1,152,317
30,932,408
8,286
7,441
9,001
11,287
647,446
5,464,487
280,000
2007 Totals
Transfers on
Sale
8,958,086
1/07/2007
OTHER RESERVES
Net Increments
(Decrements)
Transfers to
Reserve
Transfers from
Reserve
30/06/2008
(8,286 )
6,427,948
518,575
53,060
375,000
946,635
(365,882 )
(4,268,117 )
7,441
9,001
11,287
435,018
1,782,966
798,575
53,060
9,118
3,106,466
2,607,300
6,572,360
(2,751,712 )
6,427,948
(212,428 )
(3,681,521 )
PURPOSES OF RESERVES
Asset Revaluation Reserve
The asset revaluation reserve is used to record increments and decrements arising from changes in fair value of noncurrent assets and available-for-sale financial assets.
Library Reserve
Funding received and set aside in reserve for the purpose of upgrading library facilities.
Cemetery Reserve
Funds set aside for the upgrading of Council cemeteries.
Local Government Community Housing Reserve
Similar reserve set aside for the purpose of maintaining Council community housing facilities.
Land Development Reserve
Reserve created for the specific use of funding certain economic development projects throughout the district.
District CWMS Reserve
Reserve set up for the express purpose of funding Council's Community Wastewater Management Scheme which
includes the maintenance of the scheme and upgrades as required.
Work in Progress Reserve
Reserve used to carry funds over from one year to the next for projects that are unfinished at year end and to be
completed in the following year.
Open Space - Jarvis Street Reserve
Reserve used to set aside developer contributions and to be used in the development of open space areas for use of
community.
CWMS Wastewater Reserve
Funds received and set aside for the purpose of upgrade of community wastewater management scheme.
Page … 118
Berri Barmera Council
NOTES TO AND FORMING PART OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
for the year ended 30 June 2008
Note 10 - RECONCILIATION TO CASH FLOW STATEMENT
(a)
Reconciliation of Cash
Cash Assets comprise highly liquid investments with short periods to maturity subject to insignificant
risk of changes of value. Cash at the end of the reporting period as shown in the Cash Flow
Statement is reconciled to the related items in the Statement of Financial Position as follows:
Notes
Total cash & equivalent assets
Less: Short-term borrowings
Balances per Cash Flow Statement
5
8
(b) Reconciliation of Change in Net Assets to Cash
from Operating Activities
Net Surplus (Deficit)
Non-cash items in Income Statement
Depreciation, amortisation & impairment
Fair value adjustments
Equity movements in equity accounted investments
(increase) decrease
Net increase (decrease) in unpaid employee benefits
Premiums & discounts recognised & unwound
Change in allowances for under-recovery
Non-cash asset acquisitions
Grants for capital acquisitions treated as Investing Activity
Net (Gain) Loss on Disposals
2008
$
1,745,789
1,745,789
2007
$
2,558,681
(243,268)
2,315,413
(6,643,424)
2,380,120
3,586,345
-
3,237,166
38,776
(345,000)
639,207
(2,724,096)
52,052
(3,936,166)
(272,155)
1,461,017
Add (Less): Changes in Net Current Assets
Net (increase) decrease in receivables
Net (increase) decrease in inventories
Net (increase) decrease in other current assets
Net increase (decrease) in trade & other payables
Net increase (decrease) in other provisions
Net increase (decrease) in other liabilities
Net Cash provided by (or used in) operations
(c)
2,555,891
(2,920)
908,587
737,462
(3,095,929)
60,045
(1,260,851)
(2,835,718)
Financing Arrangements
Unrestricted access was available at balance date to the following lines of credit:
Bank Overdrafts
45,000
Corporate Credit Cards
26,000
45,000
35,000
The bank overdraft facilities may be drawn at any time and may be terminated by the bank without
notice.
Page … 119
Berri Barmera Council
NOTES TO AND FORMING PART OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
for the year ended 30 June 2008
Note 11 - FUNCTIONS
INCOMES, EXPENSES AND ASSETS HAVE BEEN DIRECTLY ATTRIBUTED TO THE FOLLOWING FUNCTIONS & ACTIVITIES
INCOME
Public Order & Safety
Health
Social Security
Housing & Community Amenities
Protection of the Environment
Sport & Recreation
Mining, Manufacturing &
Construction
Transport & Communication
Economic Affairs NEC
Other Purposes
Administration
TOTALS
OPERATING SURPLUS
(DEFICIT)
BEFORE CAPITAL
EXPENSES
TOTAL
ASSETS HELD
GRANTS
INCLUDED
IN INCOME
(CURRENT &
ACTUAL
ACTUAL
ACTUAL
ACTUAL
ACTUAL
ACTUAL
NON-CURRENT)
2008
2007
2008
2007
2008
2007
2008
2007
2008
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
$
63,099
35,099
16,814
68,599
48,451
22,825
162,326
145,354
139,559
156,177
161,797
121,129
(99,227)
(110,255)
(122,745)
(87,578)
(113,346)
(98,304)
9,900
4,287
909
19,084
179,783
352,393
583,470
568,352
2,270,101
1,392,810
3,379,257
2,063,772
(1,109,156)
(670,962)
408,921
1,081,218
6,950,294
4,519,125
49,952
636,030
98,345
431,447
43,804
3,331,688
17,934
3,665,181
6,148
(2,695,658)
80,411
(3,233,734)
44,000
118,861
96,000
153,173
678,647
18,848,580
49,507
43,737
261,483
285,921
(211,976)
(242,184)
618,800
272,697
249,244
7,130,416
831,931
180,374
462,886
7,027,121
2,713,559
650,438
1,555,340
696,586
2,473,981
506,739
2,240,264
743,832
(2,094,759)
(377,741)
(1,306,096)
6,433,830
-
(1,642,050)
(326,365)
(1,777,378)
6,283,289
-
11,391,759
10,608,526
13,079,394
12,436,727
(1,687,635) (1,828,201)
2007
$
24,408
16,155,737
1,651,120
974,386
11,282
21,000
1,488,737
69,088,026
17,796,168
3,995,140
7,241,338
15,359,594
13,092,953
3,181,396
9,333,940
2,758,719
3,850,076
125,385,854
62,563,490
509,917
16,000
Excludes net gain (loss) on disposal or revaluation of assets, net gain (loss) from joint ventures & associated entities, amounts received specifically for new or upgraded assets and physical resources received free of charge.
Page … 120
BERRI BARMERA COUNCIL
NOTES TO AND FORMING PART OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
for the year ended 30 June 2008
Note 11 (cont) - COMPONENTS OF FUNCTIONS
The activities relating to Council functions are as follows:
Public Order and Safety
CFS Fire Protection, Dog Control, General Inspection, Other Public Order and Safety Services.
Health
Health Inspections, Immunisations, Septic Tank Inspections, Noxious Insect Control, Community Bus Service,
Other Health Services.
Social Security and Welfare
Aged and Disabled Services, Families and Children Services, Youth Programs and Services, Other Social
Security and Welfare Services.
Housing and Community Amenities
Council Housing, Town Planning, Land Development, Cemeteries, Sanitation and Garbage, Community
Wastewater Management Systems, Public Conveniences, Urban Stormwater Drainage, Pollution Control,
Protection Works, Street Cleaning, Public Lighting, Other Community Development and Amenity Services.
Protection of the Environment
Foreshore Protection, Jetty Maintenance, Flood Prevention, Natural Resource Management.
Sport and Recreation
Libraries, Community Information, Community Centres, Halls, Ovals, Parks and Gardens, Reserves, Sporting
Facilities, Contribution to Regional Sporting Bodies, Swimming Centre, Recreation Centre, Other Sport and
Recreation, Cultural Services, Museums.
Mining, Manufacturing and Construction
Building Act, Development Control, Quarries, Other Mining Manufacturing and Construction.
Transport and Communication
Road Construction and Maintenance, Bridges, Footpaths, Parking, Other Transport, Kerbing and Watertable,
Stormwater Drainage, Passenger Transport and Cancer Patient Bus, Traffic Control.
Economic Affairs
Offstreet Parking, Land Development, Employment, Tourism, Communtiy Festivals, Youth Camp, Regional
Development Corporation.
Other Purposes NEC
Public Debt Transactions, Debenture Loans, Interest, Plant and Equipment, Council Depot and overheads,
Vandalism, Other Property and Services
Administration
Governance, Elected Members, Office administration, Council Chambers, Organisational, Support Services,
Accounting/Finance, Payroll, Human Resources, Information Technology, Communication, Rates Administration,
Records, Occupancy, Contract Management, Customer Service, Other Support Services, Revenues, LGGC –
General Purpose
Page … 121
Berri Barmera Council
NOTES TO AND FORMING PART OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
for the year ended 30 June 2008
Note 12 - FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
Recognised Financial Instruments
Bank, Deposits at Call, Short Term Accounting Policy: Carried at lower of cost and net realiseable value; Interest is recognised
when earned.
Deposits
Terms & conditions: Deposits are returning fixed interest rates between 6% and 7% (2007:
5% and 7%). Short term deposits have an average maturity of 365 days and an average interest
rates of 8% (2007: 365 days, 6%).
Carrying amount: approximates fair value due to the short term to maturity.
Receivables - Rates & Associated Accounting Policy: Carried at nominal values less any allowance for doubtful debts. An
Charges (including legals & penalties allowance for doubtful debts is recognised (and re-assessed annually) when collection in full is
for late payment)
no longer probable.
Terms & conditions: Secured over the subject land, arrears attract interest of 2% (2007: 2%)
Although Council is not materially exposed to any individual debtor, credit risk exposure is
concentrated within the Council's boundaries in the State.
Receivables - Fees & other charges
Carrying amount: approximates fair value (after deduction of any allowance).
Accounting Policy: Carried at nominal values less any allowance for doubtful debts. An
allowance for doubtful debts is recognised (and re-assessed annually) when collection in full is
no longer probable.
Terms & conditions: Unsecured, and do not bear interest. Although Council is not materially
exposed to any individual debtor, credit risk exposure is concentrated within the Council's
boundaries.
Receivables
government
-
Receivables
Contributions
-
other
levels
Retirement
Carrying amount: approximates fair value (after deduction of any allowance).
of Accounting Policy: Carried at nominal value.
Terms & conditions: Amounts due have been calculated in accordance with the terms and
conditions of the respective programs following advice of approvals, and do not bear interest. All
amounts are due by Departments and Agencies of the Governments of the Commonwealth &
State.
Carrying amount: approximates fair value.
Home Accounting Policy: Carried at nominal values less any allowance for doubtful debts. An
allowance for doubtful debts is recognised (and re-assessed annually) when collection in full is
no longer probable.
Terms & conditions: Amounts due have been calculated in accordance with the terms and
conditions of the respective legislation.
Liabilities - Creditors and Accruals
Liabilities
Contributions
Retirement
Carrying amount: approximates fair value (after deduction of any allowance).
Accounting Policy: Liabilities are recognised for amounts to be paid in the future for goods and
services received, whether or not billed to the Council.
Terms & conditions: Liabilities are normally settled on 30 day terms.
Carrying amount: approximates fair value.
Home Accounting Policy: To avoid inconvenience when complying with the separate audit
requirements imposed by the relevant legislation, amounts are carried at nominal values.
Terms & conditions: Pursuant to Commonwealth legislation certain intending residents are
required to contribute amounts on an interest free basis. The amounts are subject to certain
deductions as prescribed by the legislation, the balance being repaid on termination of tenancy.
Carrying amount: approximates fair value for short tenancies; may be non-materially overstated for longer tenancies.
Liabilities - Interest Bearing Loans
Accounting Policy: Carried at the principal amounts. Interest is charged as an expense as it
accrues.
Terms & conditions: secured over future revenues, loans are repayable by equal 6 monthly
instalments of principal and interest; interest is charged at fixed rates between 6.35% and 8.1%
(2007: 5% and 10.15%) or at variable rates for cash advance as negotiated.
Liabilities - Finance Leases
Carrying amount: approximates fair value.
Accounting Policy: accounted for in accordance with AASB 117.
Page … 122
Berri Barmera Council
NOTES TO AND FORMING PART OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
for the year ended 30 June 2008
Note 12 (cont) - FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
Liquidity Analysis
Floating
Interest
Rate
2008
Financial Assets
Fair Value through P&L
< 1 year
$
Fixed interest maturing in
> 1 year
> 5 years
< 5 years
$
$
$
Noninterest
bearing
Total
$
$
1,745,789
Cash Assets
-
1,745,789
1,307,637
1,307,637
1,751,671
3,497,460
2,124,641
2,124,641
3,148,125
5,272,766
Loans & Receivables
Receivables
Total
Weighted Average Interest Rate
1,745,789
7.00%
18,980
18,980
7.00%
299,721
299,721
7.00%
125,333
125,333
Financial Liabilities
Payables
Current Borrowings
Non-Current Borrowings
Total
Weighted Average Interest Rate
7.00%
EXCESS OF FINANCIAL
ASSETS OVER LIABILITIES
1,745,789
2007
Floating
Interest
Rate
Financial Assets
Fair Value through P&L
$
Cash Assets
490,430
490,430
7.00%
2,657,695
2,657,695
7.00%
(471,450)
(2,357,974)
< 1 year
-
125,333
Fixed interest maturing in
> 1 year
> 5 years
< 5 years
$
$
$
2,558,681
2,124,641
(817,004)
(1,775,306)
Noninterest
bearing
Total
$
$
-
2,558,681
3,948,832
3,948,832
4,190,310
6,748,991
668,417
668,417
243,268
3,281,700
4,193,385
Loans & Receivables
Receivables
Total
Weighted Average Interest Rate
2,558,681
6.00%
17,822
17,822
7.00%
223,656
223,656
-
7.00%
Financial Liabilities
Payables
Current Borrowings
Non-Current Borrowings
243,268
Total
Weighted Average Interest Rate
EXCESS OF FINANCIAL
ASSETS OVER LIABILITIES
243,268
7.00%
2,315,413
491,629
491,629
7.00%
(473,807)
2,810,293
2,810,293
-
(20,222)
648,195
7.00%
(2,586,637)
Page … 123
-
3,300,637
2,555,606
Berri Barmera Council
NOTES TO AND FORMING PART OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
for the year ended 30 June 2008
Note 12 (cont) - FINANCIAL INSTRUMENTS
Net Fair Value
All carrying values approximate fair value for all recognised financial instruments. There is no recognised market for the
financial assets of the Council.
Risk Exposures
Credit Risk represents the loss that would be recognised if counterparties fail to perform as contracted. The maximum
credit risk on financial assets of the Council is the carrying amount, net of any provision for doubtful debts. All Council
investments are made with the SA Local Government Finance Authority and are guaranteed by the SA Government.
Except as detailed in Notes 5 & 6 in relation to individual classes of receivables, exposure is concentrated within the
Council's boundaries, and there is no material exposure to any individual debtor.
Market Risk is the risk that fair values of financial assets will fluctuate as a result of changes in market prices. All of
Council's fianncial assets are denominated in Australian dollars and are not traded on any market, and hence neither
market risk nor currency risk apply.
Liquidity Risk is the risk that Council will encounter difficulty in meeting obligations with financial liabilities. In
accordance with the model Treasury Policy (LGA Information Paper 15), liabilities have a range of maturity dates based
on cash inflows. Council also has available a range of bank overdraft and short-term draw down facilities that it can
access.
Interest Rate Risk is the risk that future cash flows will fluctuate because of changes in market interest rates. Most of
Council's financial instruments - both assets and liabilities - are at fixed rates. Any such variations in future cash flows
will not be material in effect on either Council incomes or expenditures.
Page … 124
Berri Barmera Council
NOTES TO AND FORMING PART OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
for the year ended 30 June 2008
Note 13 - COMMITMENTS FOR EXPENDITURE
Notes
2008
$
2007
$
Capital Commitments
Capital expenditure committed for at the reporting date but not recognised in the financial
statements as liabilities:
Land
Buildings
Plant & Equipment
These expenditures are payable:
Not later than one year
Later than one year and not later than 5 years
Later than 5 years
Other Expenditure Commitments
Other expenditure committed for (excluding inventories) at the reporting date but not recognised in
the financial statements as liabilities:
Audit Services
Waste Management Services Domestic Collection
Street Collection
Parks and Foreshore Collection
Dump Maintenance
Wate Depot Retainer
Weed Spray Contract
Household Desludging Contract
Wastewater Re-Use Scheme - Capital
Design and Construction
Wastewater Re-Use Scheme - Operating
Availability Charge
Volumetric Charge (based on average use)
Cleaning Service Contract
IT Support Contract
These expenditures are payable:
Not later than one year
Later than one year and not later than 5 years
Later than 5 years
Page … 125
24,000
10,000
428,000
27,600
49,900
196,000
100,000
390,000
20,745
13,390
24,205
79,310
16,000
95,000
120,000
-
4,592,677
1,728,625
108,631
324,000
30,000
3,406,756
1,728,625
108,631
2,568,006
838,750
6,808,583
3,406,756
6,808,583
6,808,583
Berri Barmera Council
NOTES TO AND FORMING PART OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
for the year ended 30 June 2008
Note 14 - FINANCIAL INDICATORS
2008
2007
2006
These Financial Indicators have been calculated in accordance with Information Paper 9 - Local
Government Financial Indicators prepared as part of the LGA Financial Sustainability Program for the
Local Government Association of South Australia. Detailed methods of calculation are set out in the
SA Model Statements.
Operating Surplus
(1,687,635)
(1,828,201)
(834,126)
(23%)
(28%)
(14%)
Being the operating surplus (deficit) before capital amounts .
Operating Surplus Ratio
Operating Surplus
Rates - general & other less NRM levy
This ratio expresses the operating surplus as a percentage of general and other rates, net of NRM levy.
Net Financial Liabilities
2,550,082
(1,740,977)
908,193
Net Financial Liabilities are defined as total liabilities less financial assets (excluding equity accounted
investments in Council businesses.
Net Financial Liabilities Ratio
Net Financial Liabilities
Total Operating Revenue less NRM levy
Interest Cover Ratio
Net Interest Expense
Total Operating Revenue less NRM levy less
Investment Income
Asset Sustainability Ratio
Net Asset Renewals
Depreciation Expense
23%
-17%
10%
0.1%
0.1%
(0.0%)
21%
6%
120%
Net asset renewals expenditure is defined as net capital expenditure on the renewal and replacement of
existing assets, and excludes new capital expenditure on the acquisition of additional assets.
Asset Consumption Ratio
Carrying value of depreciable assets
Gross value of depreciable assets
64%
59%
60%
Total carrying value of depreciable assets divided by total reported value of depreciable assets before
accumulated depreciation.
Page … 126
Berri Barmera Council
NOTES TO AND FORMING PART OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
for the year ended 30 June 2008
Note 15 - UNIFORM PRESENTATION OF FINANCES
The following is a high level summary of both operating and capital investment activities of the
Council prepared on a uniform and consistent basis. The uniform presentation represents a
simplified version of reporting under the Government Finance Statistics (GFS) framework of the
Australian Bureau of Statistics.
All Councils in South Australia voluntarily have agreed to summarise annual budgets and longterm financial plans on the same basis.
The arrangements ensure that all Councils provide a common 'core' of financial information,
which enables meaningful comparisons of each Council's finances
Operating Revenues
less Operating Expenses
Operating Surplus / (Deficit)
less Net Outlays on Existing Assets
Capital Expenditure on renewal and replacement of Existing
Assets
less Depreciation, Amortisation and Impairment
less Proceeds from Sale of Replaced Assets
less Net Outlays on New and Upgraded Assets
Capital Expenditure on New and Upgraded Assets
(including investment property & real estate developments)
less Amounts received specifically for New and Upgraded
Assets
less Proceeds from Sale of Surplus Assets
(including investment property and real estate developments)
Net Lending / (Borrowing) for Financial Year
Page … 127
2008
$
2007
$
11,391,759
(17,740,976)
(6,349,217)
10,608,526
(12,436,727)
(1,828,201)
802,641
643,772
(3,586,345)
(63,955)
(2,847,659)
(3,237,166)
(465,232)
(3,058,626)
710,684
2,577,466
(345,000)
(3,936,166)
(153,637)
-
212,047
(1,358,700)
(3,713,605)
2,589,125
Berri Barmera Council
NOTES TO AND FORMING PART OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
for the year ended 30 June 2008
Note 16 - OPERATING LEASES
Leases providing revenue to the Council
Council owns various buildings, plant and other facilities that are available for hire or
lease (on a non-cancellable basis whereever practicable) in accordance with the
published revenue policy. Rentals received from such leases are disclosed as rent and
hire of non-investment property in Note 2.
Investment Property
Rentals received, and outgoings reimbursed, in relation to Investment Property are also
disclosed in Note 2. These lease agreements, all of which are classified as operating
leases, are made on a non-cancellable basis wherever practicable.
Lessees commitments under all non-cancellable lease agreements, including those
relating to Investment Property, are as follows:
2008
$
2007
$
Not later than one year
Later than one year and not later than 5 years
Later than 5 years
-
-
Lease payment commitments of Council
Council has entered into non-cancellable operating leases for various items of computer
and other plant and equipment.
Contingent rental payments exist in relation to the lease of one grader if utilisation
exceeds 250 hours during any month. No contingent rentals were paid during the
current or previous reporting periods.
No lease imposes any additional restrictions on Council in relation to additional debt or
further leasing.
Leases in relation to computer and office equipment permit Council, at expiry of the
lease, to elect to re-lease, return or acquire the equipment leased.
No lease contains any escalation clause.
Commitments under non-cancellable operating leases that have not been recognised in
the financial statements are as follows:
Not later than one year
Later than one year and not later than 5 years
Later than 5 years
Page … 128
2008
$
10,906
21,812
2007
$
10,906
32,718
32,718
43,624
Berri Barmera Council
NOTES TO AND FORMING PART OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
for the year ended 30 June 2008
Note 17 – SUPERANNUATION
Council makes employer superannuation contributions in respect of its employees to the
Local Government Superannuation Scheme (the Scheme). The Scheme has two
categories of membership, each of which is funded differently.
The Scheme's accumulation category, Local Super, receives both employer and
employee contributions on a progressive basis. Employer contributions are normally
based on a fixed percentage of employee earnings (9% required under Superannuation
Guarantee Legislation).
No further liability accrues to the employer as the
superannuation benefits accruing to employees are represented by their share of the net
assets of the Scheme.
The Scheme's Defined Benefit Plan is a multi-employer sponsored plan. As the
Scheme's assets and liabilities are pooled and are not allocated by employer, the Actuary
is unable allocate benefit liabilities, assets and costs between employers. As provided
under AASB 119.32(b), Council does not use defined benefit accounting for these
contributions.
Council makes employer contributions to the defined benefit category of the Scheme at
rates determined by the Trustee on the advice of the Scheme's Actuary. On the basis of
the results of the most recent full actuarial investigation conducted by the Scheme's
actuary, L C Brett, BSc., FIA, FIAA, of Brett and Watson Pty Ltd as at 30 June 2005, the
Trustee has determined that the current funding arrangements are adequate for the
expected Defined Benefit Plan liabilities.
Page … 129
Berri Barmera Council
NOTES TO AND FORMING PART OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
for the year ended 30 June 2008
Note 18 - JOINT VENTURES & ASSOCIATED ENTITIES
Regional Subsidiary
Council is a member of the Murray Mallee Local Government Association (MMLGA) which was established pursuant to
Section 43 of the Local Government Act, 1999.
Contributions paid to the Association were (ex GST)
2008 - $ 11,642
2007 - $ 11,642
Joint Use Library
Council is party to an agreement between the Murray Institute of TAFE, the Minister for Education and Children's Services
and Council to provide "a dynamic library and information service responsive to Library clients in meeting their
educational, cultural and lifelong learning needs."
Primary Client Groups are:
Staff and students of the Glossop High School Senior Campus
Staff and students of the Murray Institute of TAFE Berri Campus
Community of the Berri Barmera Council
Each party is responsible for its own costs however shared facilities are split between the parties
on percentage basis being:
Minister for Education and Children's Services - 5/19
Murray Institute of TAFE - 5/19
Berri Barmera Council - 9/19
Wastewater Re-Use Scheme
A joint venture has been entered into between Council and United Utilities Australia Pty Ltd to build, operate and maintain
a Wastewater Re-use Scheme as a solution to the treatment and reuse of septic tank effluent from the townships of Berri,
Barmera, Glossop, Monash, Cobdogla and Loveday and winery wastewater from the Hardy Wine Company at Glossop.
Operating Expenditures payable in 2008/2009 are:
Availability Charge - Annual Charge $1,728,625
Volumetric Charge - Average annual charge $108,631 (Subject to volume use)
Page … 130
Berri Barmera Council
NOTES TO AND FORMING PART OF THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
for the year ended 30 June 2008
Note 19 - CONTINGENCIES & ASSETS & LIABILITIES NOT RECOGNISED
IN THE STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION
The following assets and liabilities do not qualify for recognition in the Statement of Financial Position but
knowledge of those items is considered relevant to user of the financial report in making and evaluating
decisions about the allocation of scarce resources.
BANK GUARANTEES
Council has guaranteed certain loans and other banking facilities advanced to community organisations and
sporting bodies, amounting to $ (2007: $469,452) at reporting date.
Details being :Berri War Memorial Community Centre
Total Borrowed $500,000
Broken into 2 loans - $300,000 Fixed Term Loan, $200,000 Variable Rate Loan.
PROVISION FOR FUTURE WASTE MANAGEMENT
Council is part of both the Murray Mallee Local Government Association Regional Waste Management Strategy
and the Sub Regional Plan for the Riverland Councils to establish a blueprint for waste management within the
region and at a Council level for the future.
Although not yet quantified in dollar terms, the implementation of the aforesaid strategy will in necessitate
Council incurring significant financial liabilities associated with introducing the following:
- Waste transfer station and development of waste transfer and recycle separation centre.
- Introduction of kerbside recycling.
- Closure of Monash landfill.
- Waste disposal schemes for green waste and other recyclable materials that can be utilised for other
purposes.
Page … 131
Page … 132
Page … 133
Page … 134
Page … 135
THE MURRAY AND MALLEE
LOCAL GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION’S
ANNUAL REPORT
2007 – 2008
Comprising:
Berri Barmera Council: (BBC)
Coorong District Council: (CDC)
District Council of Karoonda East Murray: (DCKEM)
District Council of Loxton Waikerie: (DCLW)
Mid Murray Council: (MMC)
The Rural City of Murray Bridge: (RCMB)
Renmark Paringa Council: (RPC), and the
Southern Mallee District Council: (SMDC)
Page … 136
PRESIDENT’S ANNUAL REPORT.
President, Cr. Leon Stasinowsky.
During the past year, the Association has been diligent pursuing the required outcomes of the Association‟s Strategic
Plan 2005-2008 and Annual Business Plan 2007-2008, and has addressed many new issues, a number of which have
arisen since the prolongation of the Drought.
I wish to take this opportunity to sincerely thank Vice President, Mayor Ian Mann, OAM, Member Council Mayors,
Delegates, Member Council CEO‟s and many of whom have provided local government representation on internal and
external committees and working parties.
A specific highlight during the year was a visit to the region by the LGA SAROC and State Executive Committees,
members of which experienced firsthand the devastating affects of the Drought. They also assisted the Association in
developing strategic directions and actions under local government control for post Drought conditions.
I personally thank Wendy Campana, Executive Director of the LGA SA and LGA personnel in making that visit a reality.
I will summarise the main matters and issues addressed over the past year, some of which have been completed, others
ongoing and new:
Projects completed:
Completion of Special Local Roads Program (SLRP) funding applications for road construction and improvements,
resulting in $1.124m funding assistance for the region.
Regional Zero Waste SA priority funding application completion resulting in $167,000 funding assistance for the region to
forward the aims and outcomes tabulated in the Association‟s Regional Waste Strategy Management Report and subregional plans.
Final arrangements completed for the review of the Impounding Act, now underway.
Expansion of the Association‟s policies, including a new purchasing policy, publically available on the Association‟s
website.
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Completion and adoption of the Association‟s new Strategic Plan 2008-2011.
In conjunction with the LGA, completion and adoption of a joint action Regional Sustainability Plan, available on the
Association‟s website under the “Strategic Plan” tab.
Projects forwarded:
Support for the formation of the Riverland and Murraylands Waste Management sub-groups, including ensuring
recognition by funding and regulatory bodies of the separate nature of funding and assistance provision.
Further expansion of the Association‟s website providing immediate and public access to volumetric reports.
Working with the Murraylands Regional Development Board and the Riverland Development Corporation for Federal
Government provision for a Regional Broadband Project Officer for a 2 year period, including funding assistance of
$200,000. Further Broadband project work has been undertaken, frustrated by the constant changes to Federal
Government Broadband policies and programs.
Continued Association representation on Regional Drought Committees, including the forwarding of local government
responses to Drought conditions, resulting in a State Government commitment to provide administrative support for the
Murraylands Drought Office.
Rural Property Addressing Standard and implementation program.
Continued provision of Local Government representation on the SA MDB NRM Board and the Murray and Mallee
Strategic Task Force.
Ongoing assistance provided to the region‟s community transport schemes, including, forwarding with the LGA, the
Government Reform Commission and Regional Coordination Networks for the provision of integrated service availability.
Provision of input into the State‟s Regional Infrastructure Plan.
The receiving of ongoing Native Title advice and further negotiations towards ILUA‟s.
Further consideration and input provided for the Heavy Vehicle Access Framework (HVAF) project.
Addressing the funding maintenance for the Broomrape Eradication program.
Association representation on the LGA Native Vegetation Working Party and input into legislative review.
New Projects:
Provision of local government representation on committees addressing the regionalisation of the State Strategic Plan.
Foundation membership provision on the Riverland and Murraylands State Government Regional Coordination Networks.
Association consideration on the issue of the licensing of country taxis.
Representation made to State Government to defer the imposition of increased waste levies.
Worked with the LGA to request the State Government to provide rate relief for eligible farmers and businesses, the
greater presence of State Government Agencies and the availability of training for Council staff to deal with persons
presenting in an agitated state.
The receival of a presentation from DTEI and subsequent consideration on the reclassification of Local Roads.
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Addressing the issue of Community Insurance availability associated with the public‟s use of Council owned assets for
special events.
Regional and sub-regional input provided into Planning SA‟s Regional Landuse Planning Framework project.
Research and provision of information to affected Councils regarding Little Corella control.
Provision of support for the Common Purpose Group to forward rail freight integration and the formation of an intermodal
transport hub at Monarto.
Worked with the Murraylands Regional Development Board and the Riverland Development Corporation on the “Jobs
without Water” project.
The addressing of issues surrounding the regional Tourism Signage Audit and Council‟s responsibilities.
Representation to the State Government to defer the regional implementation of the Shared Services Reform project.
In association with the LGA and ALGA, addressing administrative issues in respect to Citizenship Ceremonies.
In conjunction with SAROC and the LGA, addressing the matter of agreements with SAFECOM for the utilisation and hire
of Council resources during emergency incidents, including the formulation of a model agreement.
With the LGA, State Government and the SA CFS Region 3, addressing the matter of Dead Plantings and associated
bushfire hazards resulting from the drought and abandoned land.
I would like to thank our CEO, Peter Campbell for his efforts, commitment and support over the past year. The
Association has agreed to provide Peter with a new contract for Executive Services for a further 3 years commencing
from the 18th October, 2008. I look forward to working with him in the future.
I would like to recognise the service and timely information provided by the Local Government Association, especially
from Barry Parsons, and also from the Office of State/Local Government Relations. I thank you once again.
Over the past year, I have enjoyed being your President and thank the Association for the opportunity provided to me.
Cr. Leon Stasinowsky.
President, 2007 – 2008.
Murray and Mallee Local Government Association.
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OVERVIEW OF THE REGION.
The Region is located in the Murraylands Statistical Region in eastern South Australia and is dissected by the River
Murray. It covers a large area in excess of 50,000 km2 taking in the areas from the Riverland in the north, agriculture
areas in the central, west, south and east along the Victorian border, and south westerly to the coast and lakes. Rural
based communities throughout the area share a common interest in agriculture/horticulture, with towns primarily servicing
the farming and horticultural communities and supporting a growing tourism sector. The Region has a population base of
approximately 68,000 (approx. 4.6% of the State population).
The Murray River, and its associated wetlands and wildlife, Lake Bonney and a number of National/Conservation Parks,
support a range of rare and endangered plant and animal species, and are major tourist attractions throughout parts of
the Riverland and Mallee. Towards the coast, the Coorong National Park, Lake Alexandrina and the shores of Lake Albert
are all well known tourist attractions, particularly for recreational boating and fishing.
Murray Bridge provides regional services to the lower parts of the Region and supports both an industrial and commercial
base.
The Murray River travels from the north, and passing through seven of the member Councils, flows into Lake Alexandrina
in the south. It supports a number of tourist and recreation activities, with a number of tourism vessels operating from
centres along the river.
The Region is serviced by the South Eastern Freeway, Princes, Dukes, Sturt and Mallee Highways, with the Berri
(Loxton) to Murray Bridge Road providing a direct link diagonally across the Region.
The Association works closely with its major regional partners - the Murraylands and Riverland Regional Coordination
Networks, the Murraylands Regional Development Board and the Riverland Development Corporation.
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ASSOCIATION PRESIDENCY.
Cr. Leon Stasinowsky, District Council of Loxton Waikerie was re-elected President at the Annual General Meeting held at
Karoonda on the 6th June, 2008 and Mayor Ian Mann OAM, Mid Murray Council was re-elected Vice President. The term of these
positions, as per the provisions of the Association‟s Charter, is for the ensuing 12 months.
REPRESENTATION: LOCAL GOVERNMENT ASSOCIATION OF SOUTH
AUSTRALIA (LGA SA).
Cr. Leon Stasinowsky and Mayor Ian Mann OAM continued to serve on the State Executive of the Local Government Association
of South Australia, with Mayor Allan Arbon, Rural City of Murray Bridge, as proxy.
ASSOCIATION: CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER SERVICES.
The Chief Executive Officer services for the Association for the year were again provided by Peter Campbell.
In accordance with a resolution of Member Council Delegates, the Chief Executive Officer underwent performance review process
in March, 2008, coinciding with the production of the Association‟s draft 2008-2009 Annual Business Plan and draft 2008-2009
Budget. This process is undertaken annually.
The Review Panel consists of the President and Vice-President of the Association and Dean Gollan, CEO Mid Murray Council and
Peter Ackland, CEO of the District Council of Loxton Waikerie.
The Association has noted that satisfactory Chief Executive Officer services have been provided and subsequently the Association
endorsed the provision of a further 3 year contract to Peter Campbell for the provision of executive services to the Association.
CONSTITUTIONAL STRUCTURE OF THE ASSOCIATION:
The Association operated as a Regional Subsidiary under the transitional provisions of the Local Government Act 1999 until
December, 2001 with a formal Charter, agreed to by Member Councils, becoming effective on the 13th December, 2001.
To ensure legal compliance with the Local Government Act 1999, further statutory reviews of the Charter took place in 2006/7 with
a new Charter gazetted on the 8th February, 2007.
This Charter can be viewed on the Association‟s website at www.mmlga.sa.gov.au
THE PURPOSE OF THE ASSOCIATION:
As a Regional Subsidiary of the Member Councils, the Association has as its governing document, the Charter gazetted on the 8 th
February, 2007 as provided for under the Local Government Act 1999. The purpose for which the Association has been
established is to:
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 Undertake coordinating, advocacy and representational roles for its constituent Councils at a regional
level.
 Facilitate and coordinate activities of local government at a regional level related to environment,
economic and social development with the object of achieving continual improvement for the benefit of
the communities of its constituent Councils.
 Develop, encourage, promote, foster and maintain consultation and cooperation and to strengthen the
representation and status of local government when dealing with other levels of government, private
enterprise and the community.
 Develop further cooperation between its constituent Councils for the benefit of the communities in the
region.
 Develop and manage policies which guide the conduct of programs and projects in the region with the
objective of securing the best outcomes for the communities in the region.
 Undertake projects that benefit the region and its communities.
ASSOCIATION MEETINGS:
During 2007 – 2008, the Association has met bi-monthly for General Meetings.
Meetings of the Association were convened on:
1st June, 2007 - Annual General Meeting - at the Mid Murray Council Offices, Cambrai - The Mid Murray Council as host.
10th August, 2007 - General Meeting - at the Renmark Paringa Community and Civic Centre - The Renmark Paringa Council as
host.
5th October, 2007 - General Meeting -at the Rural City of Murray Bridge Council Chamber - the Rural City of Murray Bridge as
host.
7th December, 2007 - General Meeting - at the Pinnaroo Institute Building, Day Street, Pinnaroo - the Southern Mallee District
Council as host.
1st February, 2008 - General Meeting - at the Berri Resort Hotel, Riverview Drive, Berri - the Berri Barmera Council as host.
4th April, 2008 - General Meeting - at the Meningie Bowling Club, Princes Highway, Meningie - the Coorong District Council as
host.
6th June, 2008 - Annual General Meeting - at the Disrtict Council of Karoonda East Murray Council Chamber, Railway Terrace,
Karoonda - The District Council of Karoonda East Murray as host.
All Association Meetings, including Committee Meetings‟ Agendas and Minutes are available for viewing and or downloading from
the Association‟s website at www.mmlga.sa.gov.au
A number of guest speakers have made presentations to the Association meetings throughout the year. They include:
Greg Cock, PIRSA.
Jim Caddy, Regional Drought Coordinator.
Hon. Karlene Maywald MP,Minister for the River Murray.
Hon. Adrian Pederick MP.
Hon. John Dawkins MLC
Hon. Ivan Venning MP.
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Hon. Michael Pengilly MP.
Hon. Patrick Secker, MP.
Brenton Lewis – Murraylands Regional Development Board.
Ray Najar – Murray Darling Association.
Ian Trestrail, Local Government Corporate Services.
Paul Muskett, Regional Broadband Project Officer.
Tom Avery, District Council of Loxton Waikerie.
Ray Jackson, Regional Prevention Officer, CFS SA Region 3.
John Coombe, President, Local Government Managers Association.
Ben Baghurst and Michy Kris, Rural Solutions SA.
Paul Perry, LGA SA.
Terry Banks, SA MDB NRM Board.
David Hitchcock, LGA SA.
Rob Wallis, LGA HR Consultant.
Lynley Jones, Country Health SA.
Margaret Wagstaff, Independent Reviewer of the Local Government Elections.
Christine Thompson, Dept. of Families and Communities.
Representatives of both the LGA and the Office of Local Government attended each meeting and took the opportunity to brief the
Association of the relevant matters being addressed by their respective bodies.
We acknowledge the support of Wendy Campana, Executive Director, LGA SA who has been ready to assist the Region and
ensure that the LGA SA has had a presence at our meetings. The Association has also enjoyed a close working relationship with
its State and Federal Members of Parliament, a number of whom have been regular attendees at our meetings.
The President has continued the practice of giving each of our guests the opportunity to address our meetings briefly about
matters and issues before them that may be of interest to the Association and Member Councils. The contribution from all of the
speakers, presenters and guests has kept the Association and the Delegates abreast of a wide ranging number of issues that
impact on Local Government and the communities in the Region.
MEMBER COUNCIL DELEGATES TO THE ASSOCIATION:
The following are the current Delegates representing Member Councils as at the AGM of the 6th June, 2008.
Berri Barmera Council (BBC): Mayor Peter Hunt, Deputy Mayor Rhonda Centofanti and Mary Deakin, Deputy CEO (proxy).
Coorong District Council (CDC): Mayor Roger Strother, Deputy Mayor Peter Wright and Tim Drew, CEO (proxy).
District Council of Karoonda East Murray (DCKEM): Mayor Kevin Burdett, Peter Smithson, CEO and Deputy Mayor Margaret
Size (proxy).
District Council of Loxton Waikerie (DCLW): Mayor Dean Maywald, Deputy Mayor Leon Stasinowsky and Peter Ackland, CEO
(proxy).
Mid Murray Council (MMC): Mayor Ian Mann, Deputy Mayor David Burgess, Cr. Kevin Myers (proxy) and Cr. Inez Bormann
(proxy).
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The Rural City of Murray Bridge (RCMB): Mayor Allan Arbon, Cr. Barry Laubsch, Cr. Milton Weinert, (proxy) and David Altmann,
CEO (proxy).
District Council of Renmark Paringa (RPC): Mayor Neil Martinson, Barry Hurst, CEO and Deputy Mayor Louis Dimou (proxy)
and Robert Wood, Director Corporate and Community Services (proxy).
Southern Mallee District Council (SMDC): Mayor John Ramke, Deputy Mayor George Gum, Cr. Robert Sexton (proxy) and
Rodney Ralph, CEO (proxy).
ASSOCIATION COMMITTEE AND WORKING PARTY MEMBERSHIPS:
The following are the current Association Committee Members as at the AGM of the 6th June, 2008.
Association Committees:
Murray and Mallee Local Government Association Regional Waste Management Strategy Committee:
President M&MLGA as Chair, Cr. Leon Stasinowsky, DC Loxton Waikerie.
Cr. Barry Laubsch, Rural City of Murray Bridge.
Barry Hurst, CEO Renmark Paringa Council. (by virtue of position held)
Bill Henderson, Coorong DC (by virtue of position held)
Brenton Lewis, CEO Murraylands Regional Development Board.
Mayor Roger Strother, Coorong DC.
Murray Bartsch, Renmark Paringa Council. (by virtue of position held)
Mayor Ian Mann, Mid Murray Council.
Jon Fry, Works Manager, Mid Murray Council. (by virtue of position held)
Peter Ackland, CEO DC Loxton Waikerie. (by virtue of position held)
Peter Broughill, Works Manager, Southern Mallee DC. (by virtue of position held)
Peter Smithson, CEO DC Karoonda East Murray - proxy John Claydon. (by virtue of positions held)
Tom King, Manager Infrastructure Services, Berri Barmera Council. (by virtue of position held)
Mary Deakin, Acting CEO Berri Barmera Council. (by virtue of position held)
Martin Waddington, Environmental Services Manager, Rural City of Murray Bridge. (by virtue of position held)
Tom Avery, Infrastructure Director, DC Loxton Waikerie. (by virtue of position held)
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Cr. George Gum, Southern Mallee DC.
Cr. Trevor Kerley, DC Karoonda East Murray.
Zero Waste SA. (external appointment)
Ken Coventry, Murraylands Regional Development Board. (external appointment)
Marina Wagner, EPA. (external appointment)
Ken Smith, CEO, Riverland Development Corporation or nominee. (external appointment)
Murray and Mallee Local Government Association Regional Community Water Management Scheme (CWMS)
Committee: (previously termed STEDS Committee)
Cr. Bob England, Rural City of Murray Bridge.
Cr. Mark Ward, DC Loxton Waikerie.
Cr. Ted Freak, Coorong DC.
Cr. Trevor Kerley, DC Karoonda East Murray.
Cr. Gordon Hancock, Southern Mallee DC.
Bill Henderson, Coorong DC (by virtue of position held)
Kelvin Goldstone, Mid Murray Council (by virtue of position held)
Martin Waddington, Rural City of Murray Bridge (by virtue of position held)
Mayor Allan Arbon, Rural City of Murray Bridge.
Mike Stephenson, Berri Barmera Council (by virtue of position held)
Neil Martinson, DC Loxton Waikerie (by virtue of position held)
Peter Broughill, Southern Mallee DC (by virtue of position held)
Peter Smithson, DC Karoonda East Murray (by virtue of position held)
Robert Wood, Renmark Paringa Council (by virtue of position held)
Richard Crabb and Richard Gayler, LGA SA (external appointments)
Murray and Mallee Local Government Association Regional Transport Strategy Committee:
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Mayor Ian Mann, OAM, Mid Murray Council, Chair.
Cr. Leon Stasinowsky, DC Loxton Waikerie, President (ex officio).
Peter Campbell, CEO, M&MLGA.
Chair, Murraylands Regional Development Board (external appointment)
Brenton Lewis, Murraylands Regional Development Board (external appointment)
Chair, Riverland Development Corporation (external appointment)
Ken Smith, CEO, Riverland Development Corporation (external appointment)
DTEI (Transport SA) - 2 nominees (external appointment)
Murray and Mallee Local Government Association Broadband Steering Committee:
Anthony McCabe, Southern Mallee DC (by virtue of position held)
Craig Chadwick, Mid Murray Council (by virtue of position held)
Cr. Leon Stasinowsky, , DC Loxton Waikerie, President (ex officio).
Peter Smithson, DC Karoonda East Murray (by virtue of position held)
Peter Ackland, DC Loxton Waikerie (by virtue of position held)
Mayor Roger Strother, Coorong DC.
Brenton Lewis, Murraylands Regional Development Board (external appointment)
Ken Coventry, Murraylands Regional Development Board (external appointment)
Ken Smith, CEO, Riverland Development Corporation (external appointment)
Don Basso, DFEEST (external appointment)
Paul Muskett, Murray and Mallee Regional Broadband Project Officer.
Working Parties:
M&MLGA Transport Reference Group. – Community Transport:
Peter Smithson, CEO, DC Karoonda East Murray. (by virtue of position held)
Tom Avery, DC Loxton Waikerie. (by virtue of position held)
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ASSOCIATION REPRESENTATION – OTHER BODIES.
During the year the Association has made and or continued the following appointments to other bodies, as at the AGM of the 6th
June, 2008.
SA MDB NRM Board:
Rodney Ralph, Southern Mallee DC.
Regional Fire Prevention Committee:
Mayor Ian Mann, OAM, Mid Murray Council and Cr. Jodi Flavell, DC Loxton Waikerie.
SAMRIC Management Committee:
Neil Martinson, DC Loxton Waikerie.
South Australian Fruit Fly Standing Committee:
Cr. Les Hill, Berri Barmera Council.
South Australian Regional Organisation of Councils (SAROC):
President, Cr. Leon Stasinowsky, DC Loxton Waikerie. (by virtue of position held).
Vice President Mayor Ian Mann, OAM, Mid Murray Council (by virtue of position held).
Proxy for President and or Vice President, Mayor Allan Arbon.
CEO – Peter Campbell (by virtue of position held).
Murray and Mallee Strategic Task Force:
Mayor Allan Arbon, Rural City of Murray Bridge.
LGA Native Vegetation Working Group:
Cr. Inez Bormann, Mid Murray Council with Cr. Les Hill, Berri Barmera Council as proxy.
Murraylands Regional Coordination Network:
Peter Campbell, CEO, M&MLGA.
Riverland Regional Coordination Network:
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Peter Ackland, CEO, DC Loxton Waikerie.
Riverland Drought Taskforce:
President, Cr. Leon Stasinowsky and Peter Ackland, CEO, DC Loxton Waikerie.
State Strategic Plan Regionalisation Working Groups:
Murraylands sub-group:
Cr. Barry Laubsch and Mayor Allan Arbon (proxy), Rural City of Murray Bridge.
Riverland sub-group:
Mayor Peter Hunt, Berri Barmera Council.
River Murray and Lower Lakes Water Quality Risk Assessment Committee:
Mayor Roger Strother, Coorong DC.
LGA Bushfire Management Reference Group:
Mayor Ian Mann, OAM, Mid Murray Council.
Country Arts Board:
Mrs. Poppy Papageorgio.
EXECUTIVE MEETINGS:
The Executive Committee comprises of one Delegate from each Member Council. No Executive Committee meetings were held
during the year.
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GENERAL ACTIVITIES:
The Association undertakes a coordinating role, in conjunction with Member Councils, on their issues and those raised by the
Local Government Association of South Australia, the community, and other relevant parties‟ concerns and interests.
State and Federal Members of Parliament representing our Region have been briefed and support has been sought for issues
raised.
Submissions and briefings undertaken include:
 Provision of Local Government perspective input into the SA MDB NRM Board Strategic Plan.
 Submission for Special Local Roads applications for 2008-2009 funding round.
 Submission and deputation to the Minister for Finance to suspend or delay the regional implementation of
the State Government‟s Shared Services Reform Project.
 Submission to the LGA regarding the re-revised Heavy Vehicle Access Framework.
 Submission to the LGA for support for Ministerial action to address regional bushfire hazards.
 Submission to the SAROC Committee with reference to the control of Little Corellas and other abundant
species.
 Further submissions to the SAROC Committee with reference to integrated Community Passenger
Transport Services.
 Submission to the Minister for the Environment to continue funding arrangements for the Broomrape
Eradication Program beyond 2009.
 Provision of input into the Murraylands and Riverland Regional Drought Committees.
 Submission to Zero Waste SA for Regional Waste Strategy Implementation funding assistance.
 Submission to the SAROC Committee for the preparation of a SAFECOM MOU for Councils requiring cost
recovery and indemnification for plant hire during emergency incidents.
 With partners, provided a submission to the Federal Government for funding for the provision of a Regional
Broadband Project Officer.
 The partners, provided support and input to the Lower Murray Collaborative Group for the provision of a one
stop shop to house drought counselling personnel.
 Submission to the Minister for Agriculture, Food and Fisheries for staffing availability for the Murraylands
Drought Office.
 Submission to the SAROC Committee regarding the review of the Impounding Act.
 Submission to the SAROC Committee regarding formulation of a Tourism Signage Policy.
 Submission to the Federal Government to provide greater geographical broadband coverage for the region.
 Submission and input provided for the Murray and Mallee Regional Land Use Planning Framework.
The CEO has also attended several Forums, Workshops and Briefings throughout the year regarding evolving issues and to
make contribution on behalf of the Association. These have included:
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 Murray and Mallee Strategic Task Force Workshop.
 Regional Local Government Association Chief Executive Officers Forums.
 Murraylands Economic Outlook Conference.
 LGA Drought and Water Forum.
 Planning SA Regional Land Use Planning Framework Workshops.
 South Australian Strategic Plan Review Update Forum.
 Murraylands Investment Prospectus Launch and Conference.
 Regional Sustainability Planning Workshop.
 Murray and Mallee Local Government Association Strategic Planning Workshop.
 LGA President‟s Forum.
 SA MDB NRM/LG Mayoral and CEO‟s Forum.
 LGA Climate Change Summit.
SOUTH AUSTRALIAN REGIONAL ORGANISATION OF COUNCILS (SAROC).
The President, Cr. Leon Stasinowsky, Vice President Mayor Ian Mann, OAM, (Mayor Allan Arbon as proxy on occasions)
and the Chief Executive Officer have attended SAROC meetings during the year.
The meetings are usually held bi-monthly on the day preceding the meeting of the LGA State Executive.
SAROC has a Memorandum of Understanding between Regional Local Government Associations and the Local Government
Association of South Australia, which was completed in August, 2003.
The Association has provided our regional input into many topics that are relevant to all communities across the State, some
of which include:
 Licensing of Country Taxis.
 Rating issues associated with the Drought.
 Regional Impact Assessment Statements.
 Destruction and Control Practices for Little Corellas.
 NRM Levy collection system.
 Regional Development Boards Resource Agreements.
 SAFECOM MOU‟s.
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 State Government Shared Services Reform Project.
 Special Local Roads Program Review.
 Rural Property Addressing Standard.
 Regional and Rural Water security.
 Native Vegetation.
 Regional Development Australia.
 Australian Citizenship Certificates and processes.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS TO 30TH JUNE, 2008.
The audited Financial Statements are included at the rear of this report. Surplus cash flow funds have been deposited with
the Local Government Finance Authority and drawn on when and as required.
REGIONAL ENHANCEMENT AND CAPACITY BUILDING.
The Association acknowledges and thanks the Local Government Research and Development Fund Scheme for their annual
2007-2008 grant of $31,487 to the Association.
This grant has ensured that the Association has been able to undertake regional enhancement and capacity building projects
throughout the year.
INFORMING COUNCILS AND OTHER PARTIES.
The Association recognises the importance of providing both topical and detailed information on its activities to Member
Councils, the LGA SA, the Office of State/Local Government Relations, Politicians, other key stakeholders and the general
public within and outside the Region.
The Newsletter, the “Murray Mallee Briefs” has been prepared after each general meeting and is electronically widely
distributed. Numerous media interviews have been undertaken as a result of the Newsletter‟s circulation.
The Association‟s website www.mmlga.sa.gov.au contains a wealth of information on the Association‟s activities, including all
Agendas, Appendices and Minutes for General and Committee Meetings.
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NATIVE TITLE AND INDIGENOUS LAND USE AGREEMENTS.
The Association has continued to engage Rosemary Craddock LLB, to assist Member Councils in Native Title negotiations in
and adjacent to the Region.
The CEO provides executive support and a coordinating role, supporting Rosemary Craddock for the Member Councils and
other adjacent Council(s) that are involved in the claims impacting on this Region.
A number of meetings were held during 2007/08. However owing to a shortfall of State funding, negotiations were
held in abeyance. It is anticipated that negotiations will recommence late 2008/09.
PARTNERSHIP/STRATEGIC ACTIVITIES 2007 – 2008.
The Association has continued to pursue a number of strategic issues with the support of partners and other key
stakeholders in the Region. Without these partners and stakeholders, the Association would not have been able to singularly
progress these initiatives.
Strategic Focus – Telecommunications.
The project partners are:
The Riverland Development Corporation,
The Murraylands Regional Development Board, and
DFEEST.
During the year, a successful Regional Broadband Project Officer funding submission provided for the appointment of Mr.
Paul Muskett to this position on the 14th January, 2008 for a two year period.
However, during the same period, consistent Federal Government changes to programs to assist the introduction of regional
broadband, have allowed little progress to date.
Recently, the Federal Government has announced the Fibre to the Node (FTN) program as well as potential interim
provisions for programs to assist interim availability in the more regional and remote areas. Preference is for “whole of region”
solutions.
In anticipation, the Regional Broadband Project Officer has reinvigorated and revised the previous Regional Broadband
Project submission, with the intent of identifying a preferred regional broadband supplier and obtaining both Federal and
State Government funding assistance, potentially complimented with funding assistance from identified private enterprises.
Strategic Focus – Transport Infrastructure.
Our Project Partners are:
The Riverland Development Corporation,
The Murraylands Regional Development Board, and
Transport SA.
For the period 2007-2008, Member Councils resolved not to review the Murray and Mallee Regional Transport Strategy Plan
to support this year‟s road funding submissions.
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The Plan provides the basis to enable the Association and its Member Councils, to determine and support applications for
Special Local Roads and Auslink funding applications.
Applications for funding in the 2007-2008 round were lodged with the Local Government Transport Advisory Panel at the end
of April, 2007 resulting in $1.124m funding availability for identified road construction in the region.
Applications for funding in 2008-2009 were lodged with the Local Government Transport Advisory Panel on the 28 th April,
2008, and the Association awaits the results of the Panel‟s recommendation for the Special Local Roads component to the
Local Government Grants Commission.
Strategic Focus – Community Transport. – Riverland Community Passenger Network and the Murray
Mallee Community Passenger Network Schemes.
Our partners are:
The South Australian Regional Organisation of Councils (SAROC),
The Local Government Association of SA, and
The Riverland and Murray Mallee Community Passenger Transport Networks and Advisory Committees.
As was actioned during 2006 – 2007, the Association, through the SAROC Committee, continued to pursue the issue of the
integration of Community Passenger Network (CPN) Schemes throughout the region.
Integration allows for the use of agency managed governmental vehicles for the purpose of providing further transport
solutions for the disadvantaged.
During 2006 - 2007 the SAROC Committee resolved to raise the matter with the Government Reform Commission (GRC)
who proceeded to ensure that State Government provided an overarching policy, applicable to all governmental departments,
to provide the availability of under-utilised assets to be made available to improve CPN services.
Currently, the Association, through the recently formed Regional Coordination Networks, continues to forward integration
matters at a local level as well as at a State level with the LGA through the SAROC Committee.
Strategic Focus – Environment - Drought.
Our partners are:
The Riverland Development Corporation,
The Murraylands Regional Development Board,
Primary Industries and Resources SA,
Murray and Mallee Strategic Task Force,
Regional Coordination Networks,
Riverland Drought Taskforce,
Lower Murray Drought Collaboration Group, and
Irrigation Authorities and Associations.
The Drought has severely affected environmental and economic stability and planned growth throughout the region including
the potential to affect Local Government services to the community.
With the partners, representation has ensured the establishment of One Stop Drought Shops to house drought counselling
and assistance personnel, for both the Riverland and Murraylands.
On behalf of Member Councils, through the SAROC Committee, the Association is currently pursuing funding to undertake a
study to provide a Report and Recommendations to address the following:
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the economic impact of the drought on the provision of Local Government services to affected communities,
rates and income modeling on all Councils in the region,
options for a submission to the Grants Commission for additional support for affected Councils.
On other environmental matters, the Association and Member Councils have:
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Completed a 2007/2008 Regional Waste Strategy Implementation funding application to Zero Waste SA.
Provided an Association representative on the River Murray Water Quality Risk Assessment Committee.
Provided representation on the NRM Capacity Building Reference Group.
Provided a Local Government non-voting Member to the SA MDB NRM Board.
Provided input into the Zero Waste SA Regional Implementation Program.
Provided information to Member Councils regarding Adaptation Actions for Local Government on Climate
Change issues.
Continued to provide Local Government representation on the Murray and Mallee Strategic Task Force.
Addressed funding maintenance for the Broomrape Eradication program.
Provided Association representation on the LGA Native Vegetation Working Party and input into
legislative review, and
With the LGA, State Government and the SA CFS Region 3, addressed the matter of Dead Plantings
and associated bushfire hazards resulting from the drought and abandoned land.
BEYOND 2008.
General Meetings of the Association will continue to be held during 2008-2009 on the first Friday in the months of August,
December, February, April with the Annual General Meeting to be held in June. They will be held throughout the Region,
hosted alphabetically by the Member Councils.
At the General Meeting held on the 4th April, 2008, the Association endorsed their new and revised Strategic Plan, 20082011. The Annual Business Plan 2008-2009, extracted from the Strategic Plan 2008-2011 and associated Annual Budget
was adopted at the Association‟s Annual General Meeting held on the 6th June, 2008. These documents are available to be
viewed and downloaded from the Association‟s website at www.mmlga.sa.gov.au
The status of the objectives and actions in the Association‟s Annual Business Plan 2008-2009 will be reviewed half yearly at
the December General Meeting and the June Annual General Meeting as per the provisions of the Association‟s Charter.
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Contact details:
President:
Chief Executive Officer:
Cr. Leon Stasinowsky
Peter Campbell
PO Box 409,
Loxton. SA 5333
55 Excelsior Pde,
Hindmarsh Island.
SA 5214.
Tel: 8589 7028
PO Box 1014,
Goolwa. SA 5214.
Tel: 8555 3929
Fax: 8555 0451
Email: mandmlga@bigpond.com
Website: www.mmlga.sa.gov.au
Murray & Mallee Local Government
Association Incorporated
Financial Statements
For the Year Ended 30 June 2008
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Membership
City of Port Augusta
City of Mount Gambier
City of Port Lincoln
City of Whyalla
City of Victor Harbor
Port Pirie Regional Council
Rural City of Murray Bridge
Executive Officer
Mr. Ian McSporran
PO Box 3106
PORT AUGUSTA WEST SA 5700
Mobile: 0419 810 644
Phone: (08) 8642 2092
IDMc:LCG:2407
LEAA18418
26 August 2008
TO:
Provincial Cities Association Members
FROM:
Mayor Joy Baluch AM
SUBJECT:
Annual Report 2007/2008
As Chairman of the Provincial Cities Association, I have pleasure in submitting my Annual Report for
2007/2008, on activities of the Provincial Cities Association.
In submitting this Report, it would be remiss of me not to note that it will be the last Report which involves the
Riverland, (through the Councils of Berri-Barmera, Loxton-Waikerie and Renmark-Paringa), which ceased to
become an Association member at the 30th June 2008.
Since becoming a member of the Association, the Riverland has contributed significantly to debate on a
number of issues canvassed by the Association. Whilst that input to the Provincial Cities Association has
waned in recent years, it is noted that an active and vibrant involvement in Local Government activities has
continued through the Murray & Mallee Local Government Association, where Cr Leon Stazanowski has not
been backward in coming forward on issues affecting the Riverland.
In my Report for 2006/2007 I spoke of the problems which were facing rural and regional economies.
Unfortunately these problems, particularly in the Riverland and in the areas which rely on the Murray Darling
River system for water supplies for their residents and business activities, have continued to grow and cause
hardship and grief, across an ever widening area of our State.
Voluminous Reports and associated recommendations have been prepared on how to deal with the problems
caused by the lack of inflow into the Murray-Darling River System, and more particularly into the Murray River
in South Australia. In reality I believe that there are a number of long term solutions to the problems of water
supply, and they are:
as a Nation we need to acknowledge that the Murray-Darling River system is a national issue and as
such deal with it on a national, bipartisan political basis now;
the use of recycled water needs to be acknowledged as a method of meeting water supply demands in
the same way as it is acknowledged and accepted in other developed countries in the world.
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Without adequate and guaranteed water supplies, continued residential development and/or the undertaking of
major mining activities in Southern Australia cannot continue or proceed. As an Association we need to
continue to stress this view to all concerned, or our lasting legacy will be a dry, barren and dusty landscape.
During the 2007/2008 financial year the Association held meetings on the 26th & 27th July, 2007, 7th December,
2007, 28th March, 2008 and 19th & 20th June, 2008. The July 2007 meeting was held in Mount Gambier and the
June 2008 meeting in Murray Bridge, with the other meetings held in Adelaide.
The holding of these meetings in the communities of constituent members enabled delegates to view the
developments which were taking place and to compare these developments with those occurring within their
own communities. These meetings clearly showed the enthusiasm being generated within the respective
communities and I am very pleased to note that the Association has resolved to continue this practise in 2009,
with Port Lincoln to be the venue for the June meeting.
In addition to the meetings outlined above, deputations representing the Association met with Minister Michael
Wright (two occasions) and Minister Gail Gago to address matters associated with the Government‟s Shared
Services Proposal and the Marine Parks Legislation, respectively.
The Association‟s view, (supported by other Regional Local Government Associations), that the savings
expected from the Shared Services Proposal, were illusionary was subsequently acknowledged by Minister
Wright, who advised Parliament that “the projected savings will not be achieved in the short term.” Subsequent
media comments seem to indicate that “the benefits” may take even longer to accrue than the Minister‟s stated
aims.
The projected impact statements relating to the Marine Parks legislation are awaited with interest and hopefully
will be detailed enough for affected communities, Local Government Authorities and the Government to have
meaningful and beneficial discussions on the implementation of the nineteen (19) Marine Parks. The
Association has indicated to Minister Gago (when Minister for Environment & Conservation) and Minister
McEwen as the new Regional Development Minister, of its hopes and expectations in relation to these
statements.
The Association also adopted a strong stand in relation to the South Australian Country Health Care Plan, and
as Chairman I await with interest the release of the new document covering this vital area of interest to us all.
The Association‟s pursuit of advice on how to attract and retain Health professionals in rural and regional areas,
was over run by the release of the Government‟s 10 year Plan. We need to ensure that the rethink which is
taking place on the Country Health Care Plan, addresses the staffing issues which the Association has
canvassed with successive Governments over the past decade, and also ties with the Commonwealth‟s Health
Care Plans. 2008/2009 promises to be an interesting period in relation to this vital regional/rural issue.
During the year, the Association‟s Executive Officer, Ian McSporran, and the Chief Executive Officer of the City
of Mount Gambier, Greg Muller, were participants in an assessment of the Productivity Commission Draft
Research Report, “Assessing Local Government Revenue Raising Capacity.” The involvement of both Ian and
Greg in the review process can be seen in my mind as not only a personal “pat on the back for them” but also a
recognition of the Association as a Corporate entity of value in Local Government in South Australia.
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Numerous issues have been raised and discussed at the various meetings held during the year.
I concur with the comments made at the Association‟s last meeting that progress on these issues has not
necessarily been achieved, often because of the lack of responses and/or information sought from the
Government.
In this regard, the much debated decision at the last meeting of the Association, that an internal review should
be undertaken in relation to the Association‟s activities is considered to be opportune. As a participant of the
Committee appointed to conduct the review, it is my strongly held view that the Association needs to continue
to ensure its relevance to its member and their communities. Failure to do so will only place a further, burden
on these communities, and in today‟s times, this cannot be expected to be acceptable in any form.
I am looking forward to the initial review process being undertaken by the Association‟s next meeting so that a
report may be considered by Association members.
I would also like to acknowledge the support provided to me during the past year. The members who have
supported me in the times of my ill health have been very important to me and shows that Local Government
can and will assist its own in times of need.
This personal support needs to continue to be transferred into a unanimity of purpose to ensure that we as
Local Government meet our aims and ambitions in both the short and long term. Whilst the support may vary in
the way it occurs, it will be very important for our communities and the State that we are united in one way or
another, in facing the ever changing focus for Local Government and our communities.
I would also like to thank the Executive Officer, Ian McSporran for his continued diligences in dealing with
Association issues. I am well aware of the loss of games of golf he has endured, (particularly in the last six
months), in dealing with Association issues and views on matters such as Shared Services, Marine Parks and
Country Health.
The 2008/2009 year will be an exciting and busy year for Local Government, and I trust that the Provincial
Cities Association and its members will be seen as a significant player in the development of Policies &
Strategies for the future growth of our State. I look forward to being involved in these processes and commend
my report to the Association and Constituent Members.
Yours sincerely
MRS N.J. (JOY) BALUCH AM
CHAIRPERSON
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PROVINCIAL CITIES ASSOCIATION OF SOUTH AUSTRALIA
2007/2008 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
INCOME & EXPENDITURE STATEMENT
CASH FLOW STATEMENT
OPERATING STATEMENT
STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION
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