Agenda of Ordinary Council Meeting - Tuesday, 22 April 2025

Extraordinary Council Meeting Minutes

20 March 2025

MINUTES OF Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council
Extraordinary Council Meeting
HELD AT THE Council Chambers, Gundagai
ON Thursday, 20 March 2025 AT 6:00PM

PRESENT: Cr Abb McAlister (Mayor), Cr Rosalind Wight (Deputy Mayor), Cr Logan Collins, Cr Les Cooper, Cr David Graham, Cr Penny Nicholson, Cr Ethan Ryan, and Cr Danyal Syed (online).

IN ATTENDANCE: Roger Bailey (Interim General Manager), Linda Wiles (Manager Business), Trevor Dando (Acting Manager Engineering Gundagai)

1 Acknowledgement of Country

The Chairperson acknowledged the Wiradjuri people who are the Traditional Custodians of the Land at which the meeting was held and paid his respects to Elders, both past and present, of the Wiradjuri Nation and extended that respect to other Aboriginal people who were present.

Adjourn Meeting For Open Forum

Resolution 060/2025

Moved: Cr Ethan Ryan

Seconded: Cr Logan Collins

That Council adjourn for Open Forum at 6.01pm.

Carried

2 Open Forum

List of Speakers

1. Brendan Price – Dog on the Tuckerbox Water Supply Deed item 5.2

Resume Open Meeting

Resolution 061/2025

Moved: Cr Les Cooper

Seconded: Cr Penny Nicholson

That Council resume the Open Meeting at 6.16pm.

Carried

3 Apologies and Leave of Absence

3.1 Apologies

Resolution 062/2025

Moved: Cr David Graham

Seconded: Cr Ethan Ryan

Apologies from Cr Gil Kelly be received and leave of absence granted.

Carried

3.2 Leave of Absence

Nil

4 Disclosures of Interest

Nil

5 Confidential Items

5.1 Closed Council Report

Resolution 063/2025

Moved: Cr Les Cooper

Seconded: Cr Ethan Ryan

1. Item 5.2 be considered in closed Council at which the press and public are excluded in accordance with the applicable provisions of the Local Government Act, 1993 and related public interest reasons detailed.

2. In accordance with section 11 (2) and (3) of the Local Government Act, 1993, the reports, correspondence and other documentation relating to Item 11.2 be withheld from the press and public.

Carried

Council entered closed council at 6.16pm

Resumption of Open Council Meeting

Resolution 064/2025

Moved: Cr Rosalind Wight

Seconded: Cr Les Cooper

That the Open Council meeting resume at 7.30pm.

Carried

Announcement of Closed Council Resolutions

Note: The Interim General Manager announced the resolutions made in Closed Council.

5.2 Dog on the Tuckerbox Water Supply Deed

Resolution 065/2025

Moved: Cr David Graham

Seconded: Cr Ethan Ryan

That Council:

1. Notes the legal advice dated 2 June 2022 in relation to the funding for a water supply to the Dog on the Tuckerbox precinct;

2. Acknowledges that any existing Water Fund cash reserves may not be able to be used to extend the water supply to the Dog on the Tuckerbox precinct, unless further action is taken in accordance with s409(5) and (7) of Local Government Act 1993 (LG Act);

3. Commits to providing reticulated potable water, at Council’s expense, to the Dog on the Tuckerbox precinct within three years of the developer completing works under DA2023/116 (demolition of existing buildings and construction of three new buildings). Such a water supply to be at a minimum rate of 0.9mgl per day;

4. Seeks approval from the NSW Office of Local Government for an extension of time to carryout the work under the Stronger Community Fund (SCF);

5. Subject to approval from the Office of Local Government, Council uses any of the unspent grant funds outlined in 4. above to carry out any planning and preparatory works to provide reticulated potable water to the Dog on the Tuckerbox precinct:

6. Funds any construction costs of the extension of reticulated potable water supply to the Dog on the Tuckerbox precinct via the use of grants, and if that is insufficient, through loan funding through the Cootamundra Gundagai Water Fund;

7. Prepares the Cootamundra Gundagai Water Fund for the provision of the payment of dividends and increases water charges accordingly;

8. Notes that a separate resolution will be required at some point in the future, in open Council, to deduct dividends;

9. Funds the repayment of any loan funds from the Cootamundra Gundagai Water Fund borrowed to provide potable water to the Dog on the Tuckerbox precinct;

10. Advises the developer that it has no plans of providing sewerage connection to the Dog on the Tuckerbox precinct and that the sewerage solutions are to be its (the developer’s) expense to meet the requirements of the development consent;

11. Confirms that it will not be extending water supply to the village of Coolac at this point in time;

12. Informs the community of the proposal to fund the water extension to the Dog on the Tuckerbox precinct;

13. Authorises the Interim General Manager to negotiate, and if necessary vary (including point 3 above), the Water Supply Deed further if required and if there any material changes consult with the Mayor and Cr Ryan.

Carried

The Meeting closed at 7:34pm.

The minutes of this meeting were confirmed at the Extraordinary Council Meeting held on 22 April 2025.


CHAIRPERSON	GENERAL MANAGER

Ordinary Council Meeting Minutes

25 March 2025

MINUTES OF Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council
Ordinary Council Meeting
HELD AT THE Council Chambers, Gundagai
ON Tuesday, 25 March 2025 AT 6:00PM

PRESENT: Cr Abb McAlister (Mayor), Cr Rosalind Wight (Deputy Mayor), Cr Logan Collins, Cr Les Cooper, Cr David Graham, Cr Gil Kelly, Cr Penny Nicholson, Cr Ethan Ryan, Cr Danyal Syed

IN ATTENDANCE: Roger Bailey (Interim General Manager), Linda Wiles (Manager Business), Michael Mason (Interim Manager Sustainable Development), Greg Ewings (Acting Manager Regional Services Gundagai), Trevor Dando (Acting Manager Engineering Gundagai), Teresa Breslin (Executive Assistant)

1 Acknowledgement of Country

Adjourn Meeting For Open Forum

Resolution 066/2025

Moved: Cr Les Cooper

Seconded: Cr Ethan Ryan

That Council adjourn for Open Forum.

Carried

2 Open Forum

List of Speakers

1. Clinton McKenzie – Gliding Club Aerodrome Fees – NOM item 9.2

Resume Open Meeting

Resolution 067/2025

Moved: Cr Danyal Syed

Seconded: Cr Gil Kelly

That Council resume the Open Meeting.

Carried

3 Apologies and Leave of Absence

3.1 Apologies

Nil

3.2 Leave of Absence

Nil

4 Disclosures of Interest

Nil

5 Confirmation of Minutes

5.1 Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting of Council held on Tuesday 25 February 2025

Resolution 068/2025

Moved: Cr Les Cooper

Seconded: Cr Logan Collins

That the Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting of Council held on Tuesday 25 February 2025 be confirmed as a true and correct record of the meeting.

Carried

6 Mayoral Minutes

6.1 Mayoral Minute - Councillor Engagement

Resolution 069/2025

Moved: Cr Penny Nicholson

Seconded: Cr Ethan Ryan

The information in the Councillor Engagements Mayoral Minute be received and noted.

Carried

7 Reports from Committees

Nil

8 General Manager’s Report

8.1 General Manager Office

Procedural Motion

Resolution 070/2025

Moved: Cr Ethan Ryan

Seconded: Cr Gil Kelly

That Council bring forward item 9.2 on the agenda for consideration.

Carried

9.2 Notice of Motion - Glider Club Use of Aerodrome

Resolution 071/2025

Moved: Cr Ethan Ryan

Seconded: Cr Gil Kelly

That Council waive all Aerodrome Usage Fees for the Southern Cross Glider Club for their annual summer camp events held in Cootamundra for a period of four years, covering the financial years from October 2024 to October 2028.

Carried

8.1.1 Rural and Regional Summit 2025

Resolution 072/2025

Moved: Cr Danyal Syed

Seconded: Cr David Graham

The attendance of the Mayor and Interim General Manager at the Rural and Regional Summit in May 2025, be endorsed.

Carried

8.2 Business

8.2.1 ARIC Independent Chair and Members Fee Reduction for Extraordinary Meetings

Resolution 073/2025

Moved: Cr Penny Nicholson

Seconded: Cr Logan Collins

That Council adopts a 50% reduction in the daily rate for ARIC members attending extraordinary ARIC meetings to only review financial statements where it is not possible to align meetings with other Internal Audit Alliance councils.

Carried

8.2.2 Cootamundra Heritage Centre Management s.355 Committee Meeting Minutes

Resolution 074/2025

Moved: Cr Gil Kelly

Seconded: Cr Rosalind Wight

The Minutes of the Cootamundra Heritage Centre Management s.355 Committee Meeting held 4 February 2025 and 4 March 2025, attached to the report, be received and noted.

Carried

8.3 Finance

8.3.1 Finance Update - February 2025

Resolution 075/2025

Moved: Cr David Graham

Seconded: Cr Ethan Ryan

The Finance Update report, be received and noted.

Carried

8.3.2 Restricted Cash Reconciliation - February 2025

Resolution 076/2025

Moved: Cr David Graham

Seconded: Cr Les Cooper

The Restricted Cash Reconciliation report, be received and noted.

Carried

8.3.3 Investment Report - February 2025

Resolution 077/2025

Moved: Cr David Graham

Seconded: Cr Ethan Ryan

The report detailing Council Cash and Investments as at 28^thFebruary 2025, be received and noted.

Carried

8.4 Sustainable Development

8.4.1 Adoption of Bushfire Prone Land Mapping Policy and Endorsement of Bushfire Prone Land Map

Resolution 078/2025

Moved: Cr Rosalind Wight

Seconded: Cr Penny Nicholson

That council resolve to:

1. Adopt the attached Draft Bushfire Mapping Policy.

2. Endorse the attached Draft Bushfire Prone Land Map and request that the Commissioner of the NSW Rural Fire Service certify the map as the Bushfire Prone Land Map for the area of Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council.

Carried

8.5 Engineering Cootamundra

8.5.1 Cootamundra Engineering Report - March 2025

Resolution 079/2025

Moved: Cr Les Cooper

Seconded: Cr Logan Collins

The Cootamundra Engineering Report for the month of March 2025 be noted.

Carried

8.6 Engineering Gundagai

8.6.1 Gundagai Engineering Report - March 2025

Resolution 080/2025

Moved: Cr Les Cooper

Seconded: Cr Danyal Syed

The Gundagai Engineering Report for the month of March 2025 be noted.

Carried

8.6.2 Asset Management Policy

Resolution 081/2025

Moved: Cr David Graham

Seconded: Cr Penny Nicholson

That Council resolve to adopt the Draft Asset Management Policy to meet its commitment under the Local Government Act 1993 ((NSW) Section 88 c) ii.

Carried

8.7 Regional Services Gundagai

8.7.1 Gundagai Regional Services Works Report

Resolution 082/2025

Moved: Cr David Graham

Seconded: Cr Les Cooper

The Gundagai Regional Services Department, Monthly works report be received and noted.

Carried

8.8 Regional Services Cootamundra

8.8.1 Regional Services - Cootamundra Monthly Report to Council

Resolution 083/2025

Moved: Cr Danyal Syed

Seconded: Cr Les Cooper

The Regional Services – Cootamundra department monthly works report be received and noted.

Carried

9 Motion of which Notice has been Given

9.1 Notice of Motion of Rescission - Review of Gundagai Waste Management Operations

Motion

Moved: Cr Penny Nicholson

Seconded: Cr David Graham

That the resolution carried at the Council Meeting held on 25 February 2025 in relation to Item No. 056/2025 be rescinded:

RESOLUTION 056/2025

That Council:

1. Acknowledges receipt of the report on the current Waste Services Operations across the Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council area.

2. Defers a decision on the capital improvements until:

2.1. The Minister for Local Government makes a determination in relation to the demerger of the Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council.

2.2. A Business Plan, including income and expenditure, of the proposed waste facility improvements is provided.

On being PUT the Motion was LOST

10 Questions with Notice

Nil

11 Confidential Items

Nil

The Meeting closed at 7.24pm.

The minutes of this meeting were confirmed at the Ordinary Council Meeting held on 22 April 2025.


CHAIRPERSON	GENERAL MANAGER

Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

22 April 2025

6.2 Mayoral Minute - Gundagai Richard Norden Memorial Project

DOCUMENT NUMBER	435767
AUTHORISING OFFICER	Roger Bailey, Interim General Manager
REPORTING OFFICER	Teresa Breslin, Executive Assistant to Mayor and General Manager
ATTACHMENTS	1. Project Brief ⇩ 2. Panel Layout ⇩ 3. Memorial Site Design ⇩

Recommendation

That Council consider providing support to the Gundagai RSL for the Richard Norden Memorial project.

Introduction

The Gundagai RSL Sub-Branch is seeking Council’s support for the development of the Richard Norden Memorial, a commemorative project of local and national significance.

Background

Earlier this year, Council resolved the following:

Resolution 007/2025

1. Council provide a letter of support for the Gundagai RSL Sub Branch regarding their grant application for the commemoration project recognising the Battle of Fire Support Base Coral and the actions of Private Richard Norden, VC, DCM.

2. Should funding be obtained, Council provide a suitable location for construction of the memorial and commit to the ongoing maintenance of the structure.

Project Overview

Since that resolution, the Gundagai RSL has been working closely with Council staff on the design and proposed construction of the memorial. The RSL intends to erect and dedicate a memorial in Gundagai commemorating both the Battle of Coral/Balmoral and the heroic actions of Private Richard Norden VC — the only Victoria Cross recipient from this engagement.

The memorial will honour one of the most significant battles fought by Australians during the Vietnam War. For 26 days in May–June 1968, approximately 3,000 Australian soldiers held their position against a larger, well-prepared enemy force. The battle resulted in the loss of 26 Australian lives, with 99 wounded.

Private Norden, born and raised in Gundagai, enlisted in the Australian Army at 18, serving from 1966 to 1969. After leaving the Army, he joined the ACT Police and tragically died in the line of duty in October 1972. Members of the Norden family still live in Gundagai and surrounding areas, and it is both fitting and meaningful that his bravery be recognised in his hometown.

Memorial Details

The memorial is proposed to be located in Council Park at the intersection of West and Sheridan Streets, Gundagai — a prominent and highly visible location. It will include:

· A bronze statue depicting Private Norden saving the life of his wounded Section Commander, Lance Corporal Daniel (Joe) Kelly, during intense combat.

· Static information plaques telling the story of the Battle of Coral/Balmoral and Norden’s actions.

· QR-coded audio/visual components allowing visitors to access expanded historical content and personal accounts.

Design work is progressing well. The RSL has received quotes from four accredited sculpting studios and expects to select a preferred supplier by June 2025. The cost of the statue, featuring two figures, is estimated at $200,000 (see attached files for concept images).

Funding and Timeline

The RSL has secured support from regional businesses and RSL Sub-Branches and is awaiting the outcome of a significant grant application to the Department of Veterans’ Affairs, expected by the end of June 2025.

If the application is unsuccessful or only partially funded, the RSL plans to seek additional support from RSL NSW, major branches, and corporate donors.

The project timeline includes an 8-month production schedule for the statue, targeting an unveiling on 14 May 2026 — the anniversary of both the Battle of Coral/Balmoral and the action for which Private Norden was awarded the Victoria Cross for Australia.

While strategies are in place to meet the funding goal, a shortfall remains, and continued fundraising will be essential in the coming months.

Request for Support

The Gundagai RSL is formally requesting that Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council consider a financial contribution toward this important project. Such support would not only honour the legacy of one of Gundagai’s most heroic sons but would also further enhance the town’s national profile as a place of heritage, remembrance, and community pride.

Attached is an updated progress brief and concept design for the Memorial project.

Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

22 April 2025

8.3 Finance

8.3.1 Finance Update - March 2025

DOCUMENT NUMBER

435229

REPORTING OFFICER

Peter Smith, Interim Finance Manager

AUTHORISING OFFICER

Roger Bailey, Interim General Manager

RELEVANCE TO COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN

4. Collaborative and progressive leadership

4.1 A clear strategic direction that is delivered upon

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

There are no Financial implications associated with this report.

LEGISLATIVE IMPLICATIONS

There are no Legislative implications associated with this report.

POLICY IMPLICATIONS

There are no Policy implications associated with this report.

ATTACHMENTS

Nil

Recommendation

The Finance Update report, be received and noted.

Report

The March Finance Update has been reviewed and no issues have been detected.

Operations

Income

The operational income is at 79% when comparing actual to budget, with the annual rates already being recognised as income but becoming due and payable quarterly throughout the year.

Department	Income Actual	Income Budget	Variance	Result	Comment
Building Department	$557,591	$647,616	86%	J	Fees from new development in Cootamundra received
Business Department	$65,025	$311,600	21%	J
Engineering Cootamundra	$4,094,100	$6,642,489	62%	J
Engineering Gundagai	$116,936	$2,654,988	4%	J
Executive Department	$62,720	$223,600	28%	J
Finance Department	$7,782,199	$10,517,795	74%	J
Rates Cootamundra	$6,801,789	$7,028,139	97%	J
Rates Gundagai	$4,407,916	$4,532,162	97%	J
Services Cootamundra	$3,447,216	$3,633,750	95%	J
Services Gundagai	$1,255,522	$1,610,000	78%	J
Sewer Cootamundra	$2,574,551	$2,910,807	88%	J
Sewer Gundagai	$629,601	$768,442	82%	J
Water Cootamundra	$3,104,950	$3,267,356	95%	J
Water Gundagai	$1,542,593	$1,629,444	95%	J
Total	$36,442,709	$46,378,188	79%	J

Expenditure

Operational Expenditure is at 68% when comparing actual to budget.

Department	Expense Actual	Expense Budget	% Spent	Result	Comment
Building Department	$1,211,301	$1,763,671	69%	J
Business Department	$2,684,032	$3,499,004	77%	J
Engineering Cootamundra	$8,510,972	$9,576,544	89%	J
Engineering Gundagai	$4,681,287	$5,210,819	90%	J
Executive Department	$1,540,690	$2,348,537	66%	J
Finance Department	$10,833,101	$20,447,706	53%	J
Services Cootamundra	$4,164,767	$5,744,946	72%	J
Services Gundagai	$1,829,810	$2,608,305	70%	J
Sewer Cootamundra	$551,941	$1,581,693	35%	J
Sewer Gundagai	$463,086	$784,319	59%	J
Water Cootamundra	$1,906,887	$2,812,625	68%	J
Water Gundagai	$497,174	$1,210,655	41%	J
Total	$38,875,049	$57,588,824	68%	J

Capital

Income

Capital income is at 20% of budget when comparing actual to budget.

Asset Category	Total YTD.	Budget	%Received	Result	Comments
Plant & Equipment - Cootamundra	$222,535	$473,550	47%	J
Plant & Equipment - Gundagai	$164,974	$498,950	33%	J
Property Disposal – Cootamundra	$0	$1,000,000	0%	J
Property Disposal – Gundagai	$0	$0	0%	J
TOTAL	$387,509	$1,972,500	20%	J

Expenditure

Capital expenditure is at 45% of budget when comparing actual to budget.

Asset Category	Total YTD	Budget	% Spent	Result	Comments
Cootamundra Land	(83,497.29)	$301,785	-28%	J	Reimbursement received from insurance for the Oliver Selwyn purchase. Part of the original expenditure was incurred in the prior financial year.
Cootamundra Plant	1,916,407.01	$2,142,264	89%	J
Cootamundra Roads	946,431.41	$3,697,854	26%	J	Works schedule to be completed by EOFY
Cootamundra Building	430,589.21	$1,059,556	41%	J
Cootamundra Recreation	422,810.47	$594,117	71%	J
Cootamundra Waste	196,426.58	$242,000	81%
Cootamundra Bridges	-	$0	0%	J
Cootamundra Water	739,355.99	$1,036,527	71%	J
Cootamundra Sewer	699,411.08	$3,070,300	23%	J
Gundagai Building	334,054.31	$931,858	36%	J
Gundagai Recreation	504,032.55	$1,071,273	47%	J
Gundagai Waste	-	$720,000	0%	J
Gundagai Bridges	1,381,599.01	$1,480,757	93%	J
Gundagai Plant	968,689.67	$1,300,000	75%	J
Gundagai Roads	2,091,740.03	$2,815,746	74%	J
Gundagai Water	341,361.57	$3,241,336	11%	J
Gundagai Sewer	174,265.77	$633,000	28%	J
IT	-	$50,000	0%	J
Total	$11,063,677	$24,388,373	45%	J

Financial

There are no financial implications associated with this report.

OLG 23a Guideline consideration

Report purpose does not conflict with guidelines.

Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

22 April 2025

8.3.2 Restricted Cash Reconciliation - March 2025

DOCUMENT NUMBER

435277

REPORTING OFFICER

Peter Smith, Interim Finance Manager

AUTHORISING OFFICER

Roger Bailey, Interim General Manager

RELEVANCE TO COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN

4. Collaborative and progressive leadership

4.1 A clear strategic direction that is delivered upon

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

*Refer to note at Financial below.

LEGISLATIVE IMPLICATIONS

There are no Legislative implications associated with this report.

POLICY IMPLICATIONS

There are no Policy implications associated with this report.

ATTACHMENTS

Nil

Recommendation

The Restricted Cash Reconciliation report, be received and noted.

Report

The restricted cash figures have been reconciled to 31 March 2025 as shown in the below table.

Internally Restricted Reserves	Bal 30 June 2024	Transfers To	Transfers From	Bal 31 March 2025
Aerodrome Bitumen Resurfacing	$165,588			$165,588
Bradman's Birthplace	$94,337		$18,000	$76,337
Cootamundra Caravan Park	$213,037	$0	$8,399	$204,638
Heritage Centre	$27,490	$1,215	$84	$28,621
Development - Land & Buildings	$1,767,204			$1,767,204
Employee Leave Entitlements	$1,798,460			$1,798,460
Quarries & Pit Restoration	$476,387		$157,526	$318,861
Bangus Landfill	$329,938	$181,311		$511,249
Plant Replacement	$3,720,480	$3,251,815	$3,924,482	$3,047,813
Cemetery	$133,710	$223,983	$239,065	$118,628
Southern Phone	$586,464		$29,905	$556,559
Waste Management	$500,000			$500,000
Total Internal	$9,813,095	$3,658,324	$4,377,461	$9,093,958

Externally Restricted Reserves
Domestic Waste	1,334,928	1,822,582	1,335,452	1,822,058
Water Supply	7,826,732	4,603,085	3,505,603	8,924,214
Sewerage Service	5,172,930	2,977,959	1,567,715	6,583,174
Stormwater Infrastructure Renewal	389,985	96,001		485,986
Developer Contributions	1,310,465	128,910		1,439,375
General Fund Unspent Grants & Contributions	5,633,377		2,181,826	3,451,551
Total External	21,668,417	9,628,536	8,590,596	22,706,356
TOTALS	31,481,512	13,286,860	12,968,057	31,800,314

Restricted Cash Reconciliation

Restricted Cash	31,800,314
Cash at 31 Mar 2025	31,360,874
Unrestricted Balance	-439,440
Grant Debtors Outstanding	258,142
Balance	-181,299

Financial

There are financial implications associated with this report as a further review of General Fund Unspent Grants & Contributions is pending.

OLG 23a Guideline consideration

Report purpose does not conflict with guidelines.

Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

22 April 2025

8.4 Sustainable Development

8.4.1 Draft Gundagai Housing and Employment Land Strategy to go on Public Exhibition

DOCUMENT NUMBER

435488

REPORTING OFFICER

Craig Perrin, Town Planner

AUTHORISING OFFICER

Roger Bailey, Interim General Manager

RELEVANCE TO COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN

2. A region for the future

2.3 A region that can accommodate and support strategic growth

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

There are no Financial implications associated with this report.

LEGISLATIVE IMPLICATIONS

There are no Legislative implications associated with this report.

POLICY IMPLICATIONS

There are no Policy implications associated with this report.

ATTACHMENTS

1. Background Report - Gundagai Housing and Employment Strategy ⇩

2. Draft Strategy - Gundagai Housing and employmeny Strategy ⇩

Recommendation

That:

1. Council endorse the draft Gundagai Housing and Employment Strategy for the purpose of public exhibition.

2. A further report be presented to Council following the conclusion of the public consultation period, detailing the outcomes of community consultation and presenting the final Gundagai Housing and Employment Strategy for formal adoption.

Introduction

Council has engaged Habit Planning Pty Ltd to assist in the preparation of the Gundagai Housing and Employment Strategy - a strategic document designed to guide land use planning and future amendments to the Gundagai Local Environmental Plan (LEP). These amendments may include updates to land zonings, land use tables and minimum lot size provisions.

The draft Strategy is presented to Council prior to being placed on public exhibition. Public consultation is expected to be conducted on Thursday 1 May 2025, providing residents and stakeholders with an opportunity to review the document and offer feedback. As part of this process, the consultant will also facilitate dedicated workshops with both community members and Councillors to review and further refine the document, ensuring broad engagement before finalising the strategy for Council adoption.

Once adopted, this Strategy will supersede the Local Environmental Profile and Planning Strategy 2008, originally commissioned by the former Gundagai Shire Council. That earlier document informed the development of the Gundagai Local Environmental Plan (LEP) 2011, which was the first LEP for Gundagai to meet the requirements of the Standard Instrument-Principal Local Environmental Plan (2006 EPI 155a).

Council has already adopted the Cootamundra 2050 Strategy, and a Cootamundra Land Use Strategy will be developed following the completion of the Gundagai Strategy. The Final Gundagai Housing and Employment Strategy is anticipated to be finalised in June 2025.

Discussion

The accompanying Gundagai Housing and Employment Land Strategy Background Report provides a comprehensive analysis of the demographic, environmental, and policy context shaping land use planning in Gundagai, NSW.

Prepared for the Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council, the report identifies key challenges and opportunities for future development. It highlights the need for adaptive and progressive planning responses to issues such as shifting population dynamics, housing supply and diversity, and resilience to climate change.

The background report serves as the research-driven foundation for consultation with the community and government agencies. It will inform the development of the final Gundagai Housing and Employment Land Strategy, which will guide long-term land use planning in the area.

Key themes and findings from the report include:

· Demographic Shifts: Gundagai population is stable but ageing, with younger residents leaving for education and work opportunities. Current housing is dominated by detached dwellings, which do not align with the needs of smaller households, older residents, and more vulnerable community members. This mismatch points to a need for greater housing diversity.

· Affordability Pressures: Like many regional areas, Gundagai has experienced post-pandemic housing price increases, creating affordability issues for both homebuyers and renters. There is a need for more diverse and affordable housing options that can meet the changing needs of the community.

· Employment and Land Use: The report notes the importance of ensuring access to adequately serviced industrial land to support local businesses and employment opportunities. Gundagai’s location along major transport routes present strong potential for growth in freight and tourism sectors. Balancing residential and industrial land uses is essential to avoid land use conflicts and ensure opportunities for economic development.

· Environmental Constraints and climate Resilience: Key environmental challenges include flood risk from the Murrumbidgee River and Jones Creek, as well as increasing bushfire risks due to climate change. The report emphasises the need for careful planning to avoid high-risk areas to incorporate sustainable, climate-resilient design into future developments.

The Gundagai Housing and Employment Strategy document will be a critical planning tool for guiding Gundagai’s future growth. The Background Report positions Gundagai as a town in transition, requiring strategic planning to respond to demographic, economic and environmental changes. The upcoming community and stakeholder consultation will play a critical role in shaping a final strategy that reflects the needs and aspirations of Gundagai’s residents and businesses.

Land strategies for both Gundagai and Cootamundra townships are required, regardless of the outcome of the Minister’s pending demerger decision.

Financial

Funding for the Gundagai Housing and Employment Land Strategy has been sourced from unspent Council merger funds, originally allocated for projects aiming at improving Council’s LEP. A subsequent land strategy for Cootamundra will also be financed from theses remaining merger money.

OLG 23a Guideline consideration

Does not conflict with guidelines.

Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

22 April 2025

8.5 Engineering Cootamundra

8.5.1 Cootamundra Engineering Report - April 2025

DOCUMENT NUMBER

434466

REPORTING OFFICER

Julie Buckley, Operations Support Officer

AUTHORISING OFFICER

Trevor Dando, Acting Deputy General Manager Operations

RELEVANCE TO COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN

5. Integrated and accessible region

5.2 Easily accessible from major cities and other regional towns

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

There are no Financial implications associated with this report.

LEGISLATIVE IMPLICATIONS

There are no Legislative implications associated with this report.

POLICY IMPLICATIONS

There are no Policy implications associated with this report.

ATTACHMENTS

Nil

Recommendation

The Cootamundra Engineering Report for the month of April 2025 be noted.

Introduction

The Cootamundra Engineering Report for the month of April 2025 is submitted for the information of Council and the community.

Discussion

Fixing Local Roads

The Hovell Street works have been delayed by one week due to inclement weather and material supplier issues. Stage 2 is on hold pending Jemena service relocations. (Jamena were engaged to carryout the relocation of gas services over 3 months now. We cannot engage the contractor directly as Jamena engages approved contractors to work on their assets).

Current project completion is 30 June 2025. Meeting 02nd April 2025 with TfNSW to discuss the Extension of Time. TfNSW have been made aware of the delays relating to the services relocation several times.

State Roads

Shoulder widening and barrier installation south of Cootamundra at Yarrowee has been completed.

Box culvert replacement at Yarrowee will commence early-mid April.

RMCC crews have undertaken minor pavement repairs.

Tenders have been invited for the asphalt works on the Olympic Highway and Burley Griffin Way intersection at Wallendbeen closing on 16^th April 2025.

Local Roads & Community Infrastructure R4 Footpaths

The concrete crew have commenced works on the spoon drain in Poole Street.

The preliminary works, design and service location for the kerb project in Ursula Street to Southee Circle are underway with works expected to commence at the end of March.

Water and Sewer

Betts Street Sewerage Pumping Station (SPS) Rising Main Replacement tender have been invited on Vendor Panel and closing on 08^th May 2025.

Res 1 & 2 Chlorination works to be advertised later in the month.

General Works

Gravel patching and maintenance grading has been carried out on Turner’s Lane, Yannawah Lane, McCaffrey’s Lane, Joe’s Road and Yeo Yeo Lane.

Jet patching has been carried out at various locations throughout the shire.

Slashing has been completed on the Olympic Highway, Mabereen Lane and in the Cootamundra township.

Open drain works have been carried out on Florance Street, Betts Street, Poole Street and Parker Street.

Financial

Projects funded from various funding sources, as noted above.

Maintenance works funded from the General Fund.

OLG 23a Guideline consideration

Report purpose does not conflict with guidelines.

Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

22 April 2025

8.6.2 Crown Road Reserve Transfer to Council Road Reserve

DOCUMENT NUMBER

430418

REPORTING OFFICER

Thomas Hogg, Design Coordinator

AUTHORISING OFFICER

Trevor Dando, Acting Deputy General Manager Operations

RELEVANCE TO COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN

5. Integrated and accessible region

5.1 Known for our good road network

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

There are no Financial implications associated with this report.

LEGISLATIVE IMPLICATIONS

There are no Legislative implications associated with this report.

POLICY IMPLICATIONS

There are no Policy implications associated with this report.

ATTACHMENTS

Nil

Recommendation

That Council:

1. Endorse the commencement of Crown Road Reserve Transfers to Council ownership for roads which are currently maintained by Council.

2. Delegate authority to the Interim General Manager to sign any documentation necessary to give effect to this resolution.

Introduction

The Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council area has a significant number of roads which are identified as Crown Roads. Crown or ‘paper’ roads were established during the settlement of NSW and are part of the state’s public road network. Generally, Crown public roads provide access to freehold and leasehold land where little, or no subdivision has occurred since the original Crown subdivision of NSW in the early nineteenth century. It is the position of the Department of Planning and Environment – Crown Lands that they do not construct or maintain Crown roads.

The Department of Planning and Environment – Crown Lands will consider transferring road reserves to Council to administer the construction and maintenance of roads.

Transfer pursuant to Section 151 of the Roads Act 1993 legitimately places Council in a position to fulfil its obligations under the Environmental Planning & Assessment Act 1979 and the Roads Act 1993 to administer the road in the interest of local residents and public generally.

Crown road transfer to council is consistent with local government having the traditional responsibility for managing public roads for local needs. This complements Council’s role in environmental planning, road engineering and development consent.

Discussion

The Department of Planning and Environment – Crown Lands considers roads suitable for transfer if it meets one of the following criteria:

a) Council or TfNSW requests transfer of the Crown road, including for the purpose of s.44 of the Roads Act.

b) The formed Crown road provides road access to urban or rural areas or provides access within country towns, villages, local communities and public areas.

c) Road works on the Crown road are proposed by someone other than the department, and those works require development consent under the Environmental Planning & Assessment Act 1979.

d) Development consent has been granted by a council that requires use of the Crown road to service a traffic generating development.

e) The Crown road is required to be maintained to a standard specified as a condition of development consent. (Notably, if standards were not specified, transfer may still be relevant on the basis that road works were not required as the Crown road already conformed to council’s access standards to service the development.)

f) The Crown road was constructed, has or is being maintained by a council to facilitate access, as part of its local road network, which may include drainage structures such as a bridge or culverts.

g) Construction or upgrade of the Crown road is required to meet standards required by a council.

h) A council objects to the closure of the Crown road on the grounds the road is required for public access.

On preliminary investigation, the following roads have been identified to meet condition b) and f) above as they are already formed roads which Council currently maintains. This list is subject to change after further assessment by The Department of Planning and Environment – Crown Lands:

Road Name	From (distance is approximate)	To (distance is approximate)
Hanley Ln	Midblock between Virgil St & Hemans St	Hemans St
Hanley St	Virgil St	Hemans St
Punch St	Virgil St	Railway Pde
Hemans St	Hanley St	Railway Pde
Sheridan St	Sheridan Ln	Ovid St
Ovid St	Sheridan St	Punch St
Punch St	Ovid St	Pope St
Pope St	Punch St	Moon St
Moon St	Pope St	Ovid Ln
Ovid St	Moon St	Dodd St
Pope St	Moon St	Dodd St
Dodd St	Pope St	Crown Reserve
Hanley St	Bourke St	End
Tor St	Hanley St	William St
Attwood Ave	Tor St	End
Nicholls Ave	Tor St	End
O'Hagan St	Tor St	Hume Hwy
O'Hagan St	Hume Hwy	End
William St	Tor St	Charlotte St
Short St	Ann St	William St
Phillip St	Charlotte St	O'Briens Rd
O'Briens Rd	Phillip St	510m from Phillip St
Camp St	Phillip St	Dodd St
Dodd St	Camp St	Charlotte St
West St	William St	Hanley St
O'Hagan St	Tor St	West St
Nurse Murray St	West St	Neil McInerney St
Neil McInerney St* (Council resolved to transfer this road on 22 October 2024, however, has been included for consistency)	Nurse Murray St	William St
Ann St	Neil McInerney St	Charlotte St
Charlotte St	William St	End of Road
Judy St	West St	End of Road
West St Side Rd	Jack Moses St	End of Road
Jack Moses St	Tor St	End of Rd
Otway St	Hanley St	Otway Ln
Otway Ln	Otway St	Hanley St
Punch St	Bourke St	Hume Highway
Punch St	Hume Highway	1000m west of Hume Highway
Mackellar St	Punch St	Francis Ave
Francis Ave	Mackellar St	End of Rd
Nangus Rd	Sheridan Ln	Hume Highway
Nangus Rd	Hume Highway	Kimo Rd
Kimo Rd	Nangus Rd	End
Tumut St	Rail Corridor	End
Ferry St	Tumut St	Middle St
Sandhills Rd	Brungle Rd	End
Luke St	117m SW Stuckey Cl	End near Power Substation
Camphor Ln	Luke St	Tom St
Camphor Ln	Tom St	End
Readfords Rd	Edwardstown Rd	1450m South of Edwardstown Rd
Kinora Ln	Edwardstown Rd	350m South of Edwardstown Rd
Luandra Rd	Adelong Rd	End
Benool Rd	Bethungra Rd	End
Snowball Rd	300m from End	End
Rosedale Rd	2.2km from Hume Hwy	4.3km from Hume Hwy
Old Hume Hwy	Deltroit Rd	4.6km North from Deltroit Rd
Yabtree Rd	2.5km from Old Hume Hwy	End
Soldier Settlers Rd	Nangus Rd	Soldier Settlers Rd Ext
Nangus Tip Rd	Half way along Nangus Tip Rd	Soldier Settlers Rd Ext
Wantillo St	Wantillo St	Oakhills Rd
Billabung St	Vicinity of Nangus Public School	Vicinity of Nangus Public School
Hulong St	Nangus Rd	Tenandra St
Tenandra St	Bangus St	Hulong St
Bangus St	Nangus Rd	Tenandra St
Rays Rd	Bethungra Rd	End
Oura Rd	Woodstock Rd	450m east Woodstock Rd
Ginendoe Rd	Yammatree Rd	end
Yammatree Rd	Junee Council Boundary	400m East Junee Council Boundary
Brawlin Rd	Yammatree Rd	Lockhart Rd
Brawlin Rd	Brawlin Springs Rd	675m South West Brawlin Springs Rd
Willis Rd	Brawlin Springs Rd	700m east Brawlin Springs Rd
Willis Rd	700m west Burra Rd	270m north of Start of Crown Road Reserve
Willis Rd	2900m west Burra Rd	4600m west Burra Rd
Yammatree Rd	Burra Rd	600m west Burra Rd
Burra Rd	Yammatree Rd	700m North Yammatree Rd
Crowleys Rd	Yammatree Rd	700m North Yammatree Rd
Wambidgee Rd	Burra Rd	1200m East Burra Rd
Wambidgee Rd	1700m East Burra Rd	2960m East Burra Rd
School Rd (Coolac)	Coolac Rd	End
Isaac Street	South St	Gocup Rd
Happy Valley Rd	Near Springfield Ln	Near Springfield Ln
Tard Rd	130m north Brungle Rd	End of Road
Coggans Rd	Hume Highway	1000m north of Hume Highway
Crowes Rd	940m North Riverview Rd	660m South Riverview Rd
Hopewood Rd	Adjungbilly Rd	680m North East Adjungbilly Rd
Fernhill Rd	Redhill Rd	End
U/N Off Kangaroo Mt Rd at Chainage 5400	Kangaroo Mt Rd	End
Kangaroo Mt Rd	4500m South Gobarralong Rd	U/N Off Kangaroo Mt Rd at Chainage 5400
Sommerset Rd	Black Springs Creek	600m west of Black Springs Creek
Adjungbilly Rd	100m east Redhill Rd	525m west Redhill Rd
Adjungbilly Village Rd	1700m South of Redhill Rd	End of Road
Mingay Street	Gobarralong Rd	End
Cooininee Rd	5300m from Hume Highway	6300m from Hume Highway
Tenandra Rd	190m from Old Hume Highway	End
Corkhills Rd	Stuckeys Rd	End
Bannisters Ln	1420m West Burra Rd	1460m West Burra Rd
Hopewood Rd	1590m West Bundarbo Rd	2180m West Bundarbo Rd
Maryvale Rd	Nanangroe Rd	1500m North West Nanangroe Rd
Maryvale Rd	2500m North West Nanagroe Rd	End
Nanangroe Rd	250m South Parsons Creek Rd	975m South Maryvale Rd
Black Andrew Rd	Nanangroe Rd	270m East Nanangroe Rd
Bundarbo Rd	7000m South East Hopewood Rd	7050m South East Hopewood Rd
Nanangroe Rd	2600m East of Maryvale Rd	3100m East of Maryvale Rd
Brungle Rd	1250m South East Sandy Creek Rd	1250m South East Sandy Creek Rd
Stuckeys Rd	1000m South Corkhills Rd	1100m South Corkhills Rd
Stuckeys Rd	80m South Brungle Rd	100m South Brungle Rd
Adjungbilly Rd	2000m North Parsons Creek Rd	1250m North Parsons Creek Rd
Adjungbilly Rd	950m South Parsons Creek Rd	3500m South Parsons Creek Rd
Parsons Creek Rd	700m South West Stockdale Rd	2000m South West Stockdale Rd
Parsons Creek Rd	1350m South East Stockdale Rd	4350m East Stockdale Rd
Redhill Rd	200m North East Adjungbilly Village Rd	400m South West Adjungbilly Village Rd

The blue Crown Roads in the maps below are proposed to be transferred to Council as they have been identified as already being within Councils asset register and are roads which Council currently maintain.

Financial

By transferring ownership council will now have the obligation to maintain these assets and the associated costs. Given council is maintaining these assets currently, no additional negative financial impact is anticipated.

OLG 23a Guideline consideration

There are no implications to the guidelines.

Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

22 April 2025

8.7 Regional Services Gundagai

8.7.1 Prince Alfred Bridge Timbers

DOCUMENT NUMBER

435518

REPORTING OFFICER

Greg Ewings, Acting Manager Regional Services Gundagai

AUTHORISING OFFICER

Trevor Dando, Acting Deputy General Manager Operations

RELEVANCE TO COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN

4. Collaborative and progressive leadership

4.4 Recognised as a premier local government Council that represents and advocates for community needs

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

There are no Financial implications associated with this report.

LEGISLATIVE IMPLICATIONS

There are no Legislative implications associated with this report.

POLICY IMPLICATIONS

There are no Policy implications associated with this report.

ATTACHMENTS

Nil

Recommendation

That:

1. All salvaged timber from the dismantling of the historic Gundagai Prince Alfred Bridge currently being stored and quarantined at the Gundagai Landfill facility be repositioned to take up less space at the waste site and during this process be assessed and graded to establish the amount of timber retained that is good, fair and poor condition.

2. Timber assessed to be in good and fair condition be retained for suitable uses in public spaces within the Gundagai Township or for as gifts for special occasions to other LGA’s which have the Hume Highway within their Boundary with the timber gifted being stamped or engrained with text description of its use in the Prince Alfred Bridge and the bridges importance to the Hume Highway and the North South Connection for 88 years.

3. Timber assessed to be in poor condition due to contaminates, splitting, broken or rotting could be sold as is, at market rates.

Introduction

The Prince Alfred Bridge is a significant piece of the history of Gundagai and NSW as it was the first major bridge crossing the Murrumbidgee River providing an integral transport link on the Hume Highway from 1896 to 1984, as well, giving a tourism attachment to the area.

The bridge was demolished in late 2021 due to its dilapidated condition presenting a public safety risk.

Discussion

Demolition of the structure was strongly opposed by the local community given its value though through a combination of lack of funding and available resources, demolition was the only viable alternative to protect public safety in the event of collapse.

Approximately 460 cubic metres of the bridge timber was salvaged in the demolition process and was transported and stored at the Burra Road Waste Site in Gundagai.

The issue of the future purpose and use of the timber was raised at the Council meeting held 26^th April 2022 after a notice of motion resulting in the below resolution;

Resolution 156/2022

The salvaged timber from the dismantling of the historic Gundagai Prince Alfred Bridge currently quarantined at the Gundagai Landfill facility until such time that a fitting project or projects are nominated to memorialise the bridge and it is known how the precious timber will be used and how much of the timber is required.

At that time the NSW Government commissioned a heritage expert to memorialise the Prince Alfred Bridge a firm had undertaken community consultation with nearly 140 memorial ideas being received from members of the community. These submissions were to be assessed to ensure that the most appropriate tribute(s) were chosen.

Some ideas put forward through a community survey in 2022 included:

· Picnic wharf over the Murrumbidgee River, a small replica of the former bridge, pedestrian bridges in local parks or a boardwalk.

· Viewing platform over the floodplain and bridge route, or at local lookouts.

· Planting an avenue of trees and a walking track along the bridge route.

· Artistic sculpture for a tourism attraction, like the dog on the Tuckerbox.

· Street or park furniture including seats ad tables.

· Stylish industrial timber arbour leading to a memorial.

· Construction of a town Christmas tree for annual display.

It appears that the submission assessment and any recommendations from the assessment have not been received or implemented, and the timber remains stored at the Gundagai waste site siting on approximately 1220 square metres of the site. This is not ideal for the site as the timbers are taking up usable space nor for the timbers being stacked on each other from the ground up in groups has led to further deterioration.

Since the demolition, Council has and continues to receive enquiries about the timber and request for access to and or purchase of timber. Those enquiries are responded to with the details of Resolution 156/2022.

Acknowledging there has not been formal details of any potential for the use of the timbers for approved tributes or purposes, it would be good to get clarity of what the Council’s intentions for the timbers are.

It is proposed that the timbers be repositioned to take up less space at the waste site and during this process be assessed and graded to establish the amount of timber retained that is good, fair and poor condition.

Once this is established it is suggested that the timbers that are in good and fair condition (which is estimated to be around 50%) be retained for suitable uses in public spaces within the Gundagai Township (for example Timber Slab Seating for installation in the recently upgraded Sherwood Forest)

In addition, the timber in good to fair condition could potentially be utilised as a gift for special occasions to other LGA’s which have the Hume Highway within their Boundary with the timber being stamped or engrained with text description of its use in the Prince Alfred Bridge and the bridges importance to the Hume Highway and the North South Connection for 88 years.

The timber that is assessed to be in poor condition due to contaminates, splitting, broken or rotting could be sold as is at current market rates currently estimated at between $40 to $125 per lineal meter pending the length, thickness and width of the section of timber.

This course of action if implemented would free up space at the waste site, retain a considerable quantity of timber for Gundagai Project use and provide income additional income to Council in the short term.

Financial

The repositioning and assessment process would be undertaken by internal staff and would come out of existing operational budgets.

OLG 23a Guideline consideration

There are no implications to the guidelines.

Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

22 April 2025

8.7.2 Gundagai Regional Services Works Report

DOCUMENT NUMBER

435315

REPORTING OFFICER

Donna Britton, Operations Support Officer - Facilities

AUTHORISING OFFICER

Trevor Dando, Acting Deputy General Manager Operations

RELEVANCE TO COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN

1. A vibrant, safe, and inclusive community

1.2 A welcoming community that cares for and looks after each other

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

There are no financial implications associated with this report.

LEGISLATIVE IMPLICATIONS

There are no Legislative implications associated with this report.

POLICY IMPLICATIONS

There are no Policy implications associated with this report.

ATTACHMENTS

Nil

Recommendation

The Gundagai Regional Services Department, Monthly works report be received and noted.

Introduction

This report is an overview of the works Gundagai Regional Services performed over the previous month and intends to give an update on the ongoing works and projects being conducted.

Discussion

This report covers the Regional Services projects and works over the month, detailing the operational activities, information on the progress of projects and the routine duties of this division.

Gundagai Parks & Gardens Section – Parks, Reserves, Sporting Fields, and Playgrounds - Achievements for the month include:

· Installed sporting equipment at fields for start of season.

· Line marking has been completed at sporting fields.

· Preparation of the new garden beds at top end of Sheridan Street.

· Town maintenance.

· Painting of toilets at Yarri Park and furniture at Carberry Park.

· Removal of tree at Anzac Grove and tidy up for Anzac Day.

· Repairing of irrigation in Sheridan Street.

· Mowing and edging of footpaths.

· Fencing installed for off season usage at the pool.

Cemeteries – North Gundagai Lawn & Monumental, South Gundagai, Tumblong, Coolac, Mount Adrah, Muttama, Adjungbilly, Nangus, Wagragobilly (Darbalara). Cemetery happenings this month include:

· There were 5 interments across the Gundagai Cemeteries.

· General maintenance and upkeep across all cemeteries.

· Preparation of beam for installation of granite desktops on new beam.

· Hedging at Nth Lawn

· Quotes have been received for the supply of new toilet blocks at Nth Gundagai Lawn and Sth Gundagai Monumental.

Biosecurity –

· CGRC have been successful in receiving their WAP funding allocation for 24/25, all documentation relating to this program submission has been submitted.

· Goal 1 - 1.1.3a & b,d,h&i. Goal 2 - 2.1.2e, Goal 3 – LCA’s 3.1.2, Goal 4 – 4.2.1, 4.2.4b, 4.2.5, LCA’s 4.3.1a, 4.3.2b of WAP targets completed. We are on track to complete all targets prior financial years end.

· Staff have completed the Biosecurity Officer Induction Course.

· Private inspections are being completed.

Spray Records for the month of March 2025

Gundagai Public & Council Facilities:

Gundagai Pool –

Gundagai Pool closed for the season on the 23/3/2025.

Gundagai RV Park Income March 2025

· 01/03/25 – 31/03/25 - Total Income $245.90

Gundagai Transfer Station Key March 2025

· 01/03/25 – 31/03/25 - General Income $120.00

Gundagai Landfill/Transfer March 2025

· 01/03/25 – 31/03/25 - General Income $3704.58

Gundagai Saleyards Truck Wash March 2025

· Income from the Saleyards Truck wash for the month of November amount yet to be received. Note* Figures are GST inclusive.

2024/2025		Avdata Payments /Council Income	Usage -Customers /Account Holders
		GST Incl.
2024	July	$ 3,157.14	35
2024	August	$ 2,123.91	35
2024	September	$ 3,313.23	30
2024	October	$ 2,418.47	28
2024	November	$ 2,277.33	30
2024	December	$ 3,435.11	32
2025	January	$ 3,250.47	33
2025	February	$ 3,486.04	31
2025	March	$ 3,245.63	32
2025	April
2025	May
2025	June

2024/2025	Totals	$ 26,707.33	286

Compliance:

Compliance with the Companion Animals Act 1998

Local Government (General) Regulation 2021 – Reg 217(1)(f)

· 3 dogs impounded and released to owners.

· Roaming cattle and sheep on Hume Highway.

· Illegal dumping on the Old Hume Highway.

· Roaming sheep Sth Gundagai.

· Lost horse.

Financial

There are no further financial implications as all work has been carried out as per the approved 23/24 budget allocations.

OLG 23a Guideline consideration

There are no implications to the guidelines.

Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

22 April 2025

8.8 Regional Services Cootamundra

8.8.1 Regional Services - Cootamundra Monthly Works Report

DOCUMENT NUMBER

434481

REPORTING OFFICER

Shelley Liehr, Operations Support Officer

AUTHORISING OFFICER

Trevor Dando, Acting Deputy General Manager Operations

RELEVANCE TO COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN

2. A region for the future

2.2 A thriving region that attracts people to live, work and visit

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

There are no Financial implications associated with this report.

LEGISLATIVE IMPLICATIONS

There are no Legislative implications associated with this report.

POLICY IMPLICATIONS

There are no Policy implications associated with this report.

ATTACHMENTS

Nil

Recommendation

The Regional Services Cootamundra Department Monthly Works Report be received and noted.

Introduction

This report has been prepared to inform Council of the activities undertaken by the Regional Services – Cootamundra Department over the month of March 2025.

Discussion

Parks & Gardens

Mowing this month remained a high priority even with lack of rainfall. Irrigation throughout most parks contributed to maintaining quality playing surfaces. The three main sporting fields held host to Senior Cricket grand finals in Cootamundra. Stockinbingal also was maintained on a fortnightly basis.

Cootamundra’s main street continues with routine maintenance in the way of hedging, fertilising and weeding, and will continue to be maintained with additional mulching, pruning and the replacement of winter annuals in the coming month.

The dangerous tree that fell in Livvi’s Place was removed by contractors with the use of heavy machinery and a crane for safety. Livvi’s Place has been re-opened and is accessible to the community, with the exception of ‘Peter Pan’s Fort, which was severely damaged by the fallen tree. The damage is scheduled to be assessed by contractors to determine the level of damage and works required to reinstate the structure. Livvi’s Place continues to be maintained and landscaped over the next few months.

The transition from summer to winter sports configuration has commenced across sporting fields in Cootamundra. The installation of new goal posts has been completed at Les Boyd Oval within Fisher Park as the old post were deemed a safety hazard. The new posts will aid in the safety of workers when erecting and dismantling during season changeovers. The installation was completed in conjunction with the Civil Works who poured concrete footings as a base for these posts. Line marking has also commenced at Fisher Park, Clarke Oval and Bassingthwaighte Park.

Street tree maintenance requests continue to be carried out in line with work schedules, and as the weather cools and the demand for mowing decreases, the focus on tree maintenance will increase.

Saleyards / Truckwash

Ongoing weed maintenance has been conducted to keep the yards at a manageable level. No sheep sales have occurred.

In March, the truck wash recorded 138 transactions, invoicing a total of $8,169.01.

Cemeteries

March has seen one burial in the Cootamundra Lawn Cemetery, and three Interments of Ashes in the Cootamundra Lawn Cemetery. Three plaques were affixed at the Cootamundra Lawn Cemetery.

Conservation grants for Stockinbingal and Wallendbeen Cemeteries were submitted in October and Council are still waiting to receive notification from the Biosecurity Conservation Trust on whether the applications were successful. If awarded, these grants will support the preservation of small areas of natural Grassy Box woodlands, two of the few remaining habitats of this kind in NSW.

Staff had a meeting with a Contractor to discuss Cootamundra Cemetery masterplan.

Regulatory Services

In February, Council Rangers 10 dogs were seized during the month. Of these, seven dogs were released to their owner, three were surrendered, three were rehomed, three were euthanised due to dog attacks and two are awaiting rehoming.

Council Rangers seized four cats. One of these was released to their owner, five were rehomed and two feral cats were euthanised.

Council’s Ranger attended multiple dog incidents during the month with two dogs being declared Nuisance dogs, and one dog being declared as Menacing, resulting in four Penalty Infringement Notices (PINs) being issued in relation to a dog attack. A further three PINs were issued in relation to failure to register companion animals. The total of all PINs issued during March amounted to $6,685.00.

Council Rangers continue to monitor and refill waste stations.

Additionally, Rangers issued warnings to owners of illegally parked vehicles. These vehicles are being monitored in line with timeframes legislated under the NSW Public Spaces Act.

In addition to routine patrols and compliance checks, Council’s Ranger has been working with local schools to promote animal awareness. Local primary students were provided with fact sheets on responsible pet ownership, animal safety and the importance of learning how to identify potential dangers when approaching animals.

Preparations are underway to commence and audit of the NSW Companion Animals Register. The audit will identify animals that have been microchipped and not yet registered, which is a requirement under the Companion Animals Act 1998. Owners of unregistered animals will be contacted and provided with information on what steps are required to register their animals to comply with the regulations.

Waste

The secondhand tip shop processed 103 transactions for March with a total of $956.33 in income. During this time staff have diverted 900kg of waste from the landfill into the shop to be repurposed. Staff are still ascertaining which products turn over quickly and what prices people are willing to pay.

A total of 188 tonnes of recycled crushed concrete was sold this month and a total of 202 tonnes of compost soil.

Facilities

The Cootamundra Caravan Park had a major gas leak repaired at the amenities building, along with some electrical fixes and repairs to the hot water system.

The Cootamundra Town Hall roof, gutters and ceiling were repaired following a water leak through the kitchen ceiling in the last storm event.

The six-monthly services and inspections for the fire safety equipment and emergency lighting was carried out for all Council owned facilities in Cootamundra.

Capital Works Projects

The opening of the new Ellwood’s Hall toilet block was held during March which was well attended. This project was funded through the Stronger Country Communities Fund (SCCF) Round 5 and is a great new asset for the community.

The Fisher Park Changerooms project that was heavily underfunded through the SCCF Round 5 was identified and sent through to Michael McCormack’s office as a project that they could potentially contribute funding to so the project could be delivered. Staff and members from the Cootamundra Rugby League Club met with Mr McCormack onsite to discuss the project in more detail. Michael McCormack’s office has pledged to provide the additional funding required if reelected in the upcoming elections.

The Fisher Park redevelopment upgrades funded through the Southern Phone reserves has continued with new goal posts, a new announcer’s box, a new PA system and painting in the changerooms.

The Muttama Creek Master Plan RFQ received nine submissions. The project has been awarded to Martens & Associates Pty Ltd. Their submission identified a Concept Flood Mitigation Scheme to improve the creek’s capability to convey flood water, using flood modelling software which will provide a robust means of assessing potential engineering solutions required to mitigate flood impacts. They identified their Ecology Assessment and REF strategies, including consultation with community and all relevant government agencies. Martens demonstrated industry experience in undertaking similar projects with the ability to incorporate flood investigations and flood risk assessments with ecologically sustainable engineering practices. The flood funded projects have since been given a 12-month extension with the date of completion now being 30^th June 2026. Regardless of the extension, it is anticipated that Council will continue to aim to have the below flood projects, including the master plan, completed as early as possible: -

· Masterplan and physical works to clean either side of Council bridges and culverts: $210K (Status – about to commence)

· Nicholson Park canteen and building flood damage repairs: $50K (Status – completed)

· Clarke Oval building and fence damage repairs: $75,000 (Status – commenced and should be completed in around 4 weeks)

· Cootamundra Caravan Park fence, BBQ’s and camp kitchen repairs: $51,601.64 (Status – completed)

· Cootamundra dog park fence repairs: $10,779.00 (Status – completed)

· Cootamundra playgrounds softfall replacement: $25,000 (Status – completed)

· Cootamundra showground evacuation building improvements: $130,000 (status – commenced and should be completed by June 30th)

· Barry Grace Oval fence replacement: $120K (Status – completed)

· CGRC Waste Recovery: $40K (Status – completed)

· Evacuation centres back-up generators: $95K (status – quotes received, waiting on electrician to quote for installation to then proceed)

General and WAP Activity March 2025

Activity	Location	Km/Count	Date
Regional Inspection Program - Inspection of High Risk Pathways (roadsides) (Inspection) (Inspection) 1650km	Burley Griffin Way	10km	26/3/25
	Berthong Road	13km	26/3/25
	Corby’s Lane	2.4km	24/3/25
	Old Cootamundra Road	18.6km	20/3/25
	Dudauman Road	8.5km	13/3/25
	Grogan Road	3.4km	23/3/25
	Olympic Highway	15km	20/3/25
	Kilrush Road	6km	11/3/25
	Olympic Highway	15km	25/3/25
	Cullinga Road	16.3km	12/3/25
	Cullinga Mines Road	2.8km	12/3/25
	North Jindalee Road	8.2km	27/3/25
		TOTAL: 119.2km
(HRS) Inspection of named HRS.	Truck Wash	1 inspection	11/3/25
Inspection of HRS – Water ways and foreshore inspections.	Muttama Creek	4km	14/3/25
Private Property Inspections. Target 120	349 Back Brawlin Rd	1 Inspection	7/3/25
	8 Young St	1 Inspection	25/3/25
	30 Hoskins St	1 Inspection	25/3/25
	32 Hoskins St	1 Inspection	25/3/25
	20 Hoskins St	1 Inspection	26/3/25
	1 Victoria St	1 Inspection	26/3/25
	26 Hoskins St	1 Inspection	26/3/25
	1559 MUTTAMA ROAD MUTTAMA	1 Inspection	14/3/25
	1557 MUTTAMA ROAD MUTTAMA	1 Inspection	14/3/25
	1533 MUTTAMA ROAD MUTTAMA	1 Inspection	14/3/25
		TOTAL: 10 Grand Total: 71/60
Inspect Council owned and Managed Lands	Muttama Waste Transfer Station	1 inspection	14/3/25
Implementing & Upgrading of Red Guide Post (RGP) Initiative (Co-ordination)	Cootamundra	1 Program	Updated RGP records supplied to Regional Coordinator prior to Q3 RRWC Meeting.
LCAs to eradicate or contain incursions of state and regional priority weeds (Control). Target 40km.	Sticky nightshade	Control	20/3/25
	Coolatai grass	Control	20/3/25
	Coolatai grass	Control	25/3/25
Provide landholders with education, training & technical advice & support on weed management (Extension)	Water poppy	4 Packages	14/3/25
	Cootamundra Connections Expo	Weeds sector participation.	26/3/25
	Parthenium Weed	15 Packages	26/3/25
	Water poppy	15 Packages	26/3/25
	Sticky nightshade	15 Packages	26/3/25
	Post Inspection Reports	11 Reports	March
	Water poppy Social Media Notice	1 Package	7/3/25
	Sticky nightshade Social Media Notice	1 Package	20/3/25
Coordination Event	Q3 RRWC Meeting	Wagga Wagga	19/3/25
Other
Spot Spray Local Roads – Local priority weeds	Corby’s Lane	African boxthorn control	24/3/25
	North Jindalee Road	Blackberry control	27/3/25
	Old Cootamundra Road	Coolatai grass control	20/3/25
	Olympic HWY	Coolatai grass control	25/3/25

General Comments:

- New incursion of Sticky Nightshade detected and treated. Single plant located 2km from Cootamundra (Olympic Highway). Reports of isolated plants in neighboring Council areas.

- Sticky Nightshade will officially be prioritised as an eradication species in the Regional Management Plan (1 July 2025). Assists future WAP applications.

- This plant has been a local priority whilst inspecting for the last 18 months in Cootamundra region (two plants found and treated to date).

- Incursion sites integrated into RGP for long term monitoring.

- Sticky Nightshade information packages submitted to website and Council social media in an effort to increase public awareness and reporting of possible sightings.

- Priority weed information packages were made available to the public at Cootamundra Connections Expo.

- Summer side spray of local roads continued.

- Dry weather conditions are limiting ability to treat as vegetation is no longer in active growth.

- Older Fleabane and Feather-Top Rhodes grass proving difficult to control roadside.

- Moderate to dense incursions of African boxthorn treated on Corby’s Lane.

- Juvenile Blackberry and partial regrowth treated North Jindalee Road.

- Red guidepost areas inspected and control of Coolatai Grass caried out where required. Incursion density significantly reduced. Majority of plants treated were juveniles that had not seeded at time of treatment.

Property Inspections:

- Additional property inspections undertaken in Cootamundra to assist Gundagai biosecurity officer reach annual targets.

- Water Poppy surveillance in Muttama village due to historical reports of species (scheduled prevention in Riverina) – nothing observed. Muttama Creek inspections were conducted where properties had access to waterways.

- No high-risk species detected on any inspected properties with majority of landholders compliant in managing localised species (Schedule 3). Post inspection reports submitted.

Riverina Weeds Committee Meeting (19/3/25):

- WAP applications reviewed by DPI 21/3/25.

- Councils to be notified of application outcomes 28/3/25.

- CGRC did not exceed its historical regional allocation.

- All council applications are likely to be audited as the regional allocation budget has been exceeded.

- Multiple councils applied for more funding than the “agreed” allocations.

- Lower priority ISP goal funding will likely be cut from applications as a result.

Financial

All areas of expenditure relating to operations within the Regional Services – Cootamundra department are in the most part within the allocated budget allocations.

OLG 23a Guideline consideration

No impacts associated with this report.

Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

22 April 2025

9 Motion of which Notice has been Given

9.1 Notice of Motion - Commissioning of a Bronze Statue Honouring Bob Holder

DOCUMENT NUMBER	435286
REPORTING OFFICER	Teresa Breslin, Executive Assistant to Mayor and General Manager
AUTHORISING OFFICER	Roger Bailey, Interim General Manager

The following Notice of Motion signed by Councillor Crs Collins, Kelly and Ryan was submitted on 8 April, 2025.

I hereby give notice of my intention to move the following motion at the Council meeting of Tuesday, 22 April, 2025:

Motion

1. Investigate the commissioning and installation of a life-sized bronze statue of Bob Holder, a celebrated saddle bronc rider, to be installed in the garden bed outside the Cootamundra Post Office on Wallendoon Street as per the artistic concept attached.

2. Undertake community consultation with:

Mr. Bob Holder and his family;

The Cootamundra Rodeo Committee;

Parker and Wallendoon Street business owners.

3. Explore relevant funding avenues to support the project, including but not limited to:

NSW Government funding programs, e.g. Create NSW’s Arts and Cultural Funding Program, Regional Arts NSW - Regional Arts Fund, and NSW Community Building Partnership Program;

Council’s own heritage and community enhancement budgets;

Community fundraising and sponsorship opportunities.

4. Receive a report outlining scope, preliminary costs, funding strategies, and community feedback for further consideration by Council.

RATIONALE

Bob Holder, known affectionately as the “Cootamundra Cat,” is not only a local legend but also a figure of national and international acclaim. His legacy in the rodeo world spans over seventy years, during which he has competed at the highest levels, including a historic performance at Madison Square Garden in New York. As the world’s oldest active rodeo competitor, Mr. Holder embodies the spirit, resilience, and courage of rural Australia. Commissioning a statue in Mr. Holder’s honour is a unique opportunity for CGRC to pay tribute to a living legend who has represented Cootamundra with distinction. This tribute would act as a permanent recognition of his lifetime of achievement and character, cementing his legacy in the heart of the community that shaped him. It also aligns with how CGRC has recognised other icons, such as Sir Donald Bradman, highlighting the region’s proud tradition of producing world-2

class talent. From a community and economic perspective, the benefits of such a project are significant. Public artworks have been shown to drive local tourism and stimulate economic activity. By situating the statue prominently outside the Cootamundra Post Office on Wallendoon Street—an iconic and central location—the installation will become an immediate point of interest for tourists, rodeo enthusiasts, and media alike. It will draw visitors into the town centre, encouraging foot traffic and patronage to surrounding businesses in the Cootamundra CBD. Moreover, the statue will enhance the cultural fabric of the town, adding another compelling feature to local walking tours, school excursions, and community storytelling. It will serve as a source of pride for residents, a point of education for younger generations, and a powerful attraction for regional promotion and branding. Local businesses, including nearby bakeries, cafés, retail shops, and accommodation providers, stand to benefit from increased visitor numbers, particularly during rodeo season and major events. This initiative also has the potential to inspire further investment and development in the Cootamundra town centre. A well-executed public statue with appropriate landscaping and interpretive signage will signal that Council values its history, honours its people, and is willing to invest in meaningful, long-term cultural assets. In summary, this proposal represents not only an act of recognition but a strategic investment in our town’s identity, vibrancy, and economic sustainability. Honouring Bob Holder not only celebrates one man’s extraordinary achievements, but also recognises what makes Cootamundra truly special and ensures that legacy continues to inspire future generations.

Note: Preliminary consultation has been conducted with members of Mr. Holder’s family and the President of the Cootamundra Rodeo Committee, all of whom have expressed strong support for this initiative.

Attachments:

Artist’s Impression – Proposed Statue of Bob Holder in Saddle Bronc Event

DOCUMENT NUMBER	434746
AUTHORISING OFFICER	Abb McAlister, Mayor
REPORTING OFFICER	Abb McAlister, Mayor
ATTACHMENTS	Nil

DOCUMENT NUMBER	435686
REPORTING OFFICER	Teresa Breslin, Executive Assistant to Mayor and General Manager
AUTHORISING OFFICER	Roger Bailey, Interim General Manager