Agenda of Ordinary Council Meeting - Tuesday, 24 June 2025

Minutes

MINUTES OF Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council
Ordinary Council Meeting
HELD AT THE Council Chambers, Gundagai
ON Tuesday, 27 May 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 (online)

IN ATTENDANCE: Roger Bailey (Interim General Manager), Trevor Dando (Deputy General Manager - Operations), Linda Wiles (Manager Business) (online), Peter Smith (Interim Manager Finance) (online), Teresa Breslin (Executive Assistant)

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

Motion

Moved: Cr Rosalind Wight

Seconded: Cr Penny Nicholson

That Council adjourn for Open Forum at 6.00pm.

2 Open Forum

List of Speakers

1. Christine Scott – Raising money for recognition of female cricket captains at Jubilee Park.

2. Rose Misevic – Farewell from the Dog on the Tucker Box site current lease owners.

Resume Open Meeting

Motion

Moved: Cr Les Cooper

Seconded: Cr Rosalind Wight

That Council resume the Open Meeting at 6.10pm.

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 22 April 2025

Resolution 099/2025

Moved: Cr David Graham

Seconded: Cr Gil Kelly

That the Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting of Council held on Tuesday 22 April 2025 be confirmed as a true and correct record of the meeting.

Carried

6 Mayoral Minutes

6.1 Mayoral Minute - Councillor Engagement

Resolution 100/2025

Moved: Cr David Graham

Seconded: Cr Les Cooper

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

Carried

7 Reports from Committees

7.1 Minutes of the Cootamundra-Gundagai Local Traffic Committee Meeting held on Thursday 8 May 2025

Resolution 101/2025

Moved: Cr David Graham

Seconded: Cr Ethan Ryan

1. That the Minutes of the Cootamundra-Gundagai Local Traffic Committee Meeting held on Thursday 8 May 2025, attached to the report, be received and noted.

2. In consideration of the Cootamundra-Gundagai Local Traffic Committee recommendations detailed in the minutes, Council endorse the following:

2.1. That the two-hour parking restriction in front of the Cootamundra Council Administration Office be extended along Wallendoon Street to Thompson Street and include the Cootamundra Library and Town Hall.

2.2. That TfNSW be requested to determine the appropriate signs and line markings at the intersection of Temora Street and Parker Street, recognising the frequency and history on unreported crashes at the intersection.

2.3. That the GIVE WAY signage on the Boundary Road and Berthong Road approaches to the Stockinbingal Road intersection are replaced with ‘C’ size STOP signs.

That advanced STOP sign warnings be installed.

That unnecessary non-regulatory signs be removed to reduce sign clutter.

That TfNSW investigate the placement of 80km/h speed signs.

That centre barrier lines and hold lines be renewed.

That pavement reflectors be replaced.

That a streetsweeper clean the intersection and approaches.

That the tree branches obscuring visibility along Berthong Rd be trimmed.

2.4. That NO STOPPING signs be installed 10m from the kerb on both sides of Temora Street on the western side of the Sutton Street and Temora Street intersection.

That a letter be sent to Sacred Heart Central School advising of the proposed placement of the No Stopping signs, to reinforce the parking regulation.

2.5. That approval be given to the Muttama Hall 355 Committee to hold the Muttama Hall 100 Years Celebration event on Saturday 17 May and Sunday 18 May 2025 subject to the following conditions:

a) The event organiser complies with any conditions set by Council and the NSW Police;

b) The Event Management Plan (EMP) is completed and submitted to Council (attached);

c) A current Public Liability Certificate of Currency (COC) is provided by Council (attached);

d) Council provides a Traffic Guidance Scheme (TGS attached) and arranges placement and removal of all speed reduction and event management road signs.

e) That Council’s Event Management Plan template be amended to include “tick boxes” to remind event organisers that public liability insurance certificates have included interested parties (Council, TfNSW and NSW Police) when applicable.

2.6. That approval be given for the Cootamundra Community of Schools to hold the 2025 Book Week Parade on Friday the 22 August 2025 subject to the following conditions:

a) The temporary closure of Parker Street between Adams and McKay Street between 10:30am and 12 noon, including Bourke Street at Parker Street and the Woolworths carpark entry exit at Parker Street;

b) That all businesses along the route be advised and road closures be advertised throughout the community;

c) The event organiser complies with any conditions set by Council and the NSW Police;

d) A Police escort is organised for the duration of the parade by the event organiser;

e) The Event Risk Assessment and Hazard Summary forms associated with the Event Management Plan are completed and submitted to Council (attached);

f) A current Public Liability Insurance Certificate of Currency is submitted to Council (attached);

2.7. That the Cootamundra Charity Toy Run Event scheduled for Saturday 13 December 2025 be approved subject to the following conditions:

a) An Event Management Plan (EMP) is completed and submitted to Council (attached);

b) A current Public Liability Insurance Certificate of Currency (COC) is provided to Council, noting CGRC, NSW Police and TfNSW as interested parties (update requested);

c) An Emergency Services Agreement is signed and submitted to Council;

d) The event organiser complies with any conditions set by Council and the NSW Police.

2.8. That the Ton Motorcycle Run No. 3 Cootamundra scheduled for Saturday 15 November 2025 be approved subject to the following conditions:

a) An Event Management Plan (EMP) from the Cootamundra Antique Motor Club is completed and submitted to Council (attached);

b) A current Public Liability Insurance Certificate of Currency (COC) from the Antique Motor Club is provided to Council, noting CGRC, NSW Police and TfNSW as interested parties (update requested);

c) The event organiser complies with any conditions set by Council and the NSW Police.

Carried

8 General Manager’s Report

8.1 General Manager Office

8.1.1 2025-26 Determination of the Local Government Remuneration Tribunal - Councillor Fees and Additional Mayoral Fee

Resolution 102/2025

Moved: Cr Penny Nicholson

Seconded: Cr Logan Collins

1. The Councillors annual fee effective 1^st July, 2025 remain at $13,030 per annum.

2. The Mayors annual fee effective 1^st July, 2025 remain at $28,430 per annum.

3. Consistent with resolution 173/2022 Council continue to support superannuation contribution payments for Councillors, subject to individual Councillors nominating an eligible superannuation account, thus enabling superannuation payments to commence.

Carried

8.1.2 NSW Local Roads Congress 2025

Resolution 103/2025

Moved: Cr Logan Collins

Seconded: Cr Rosalind Wight

The 2025 NSW Local Roads Congress Report be received and noted.

Carried

8.1.3 Country Mayors Association Meeting Minutes 28 March 2025

Resolution 104/2025

Moved: Cr Gil Kelly

Seconded: Cr David Graham

The Minutes of the Country Mayors Association Meetings held on 28 March 2025, attached to the report, be received and noted.

Carried

8.1.4 2025 Rural and Regional Summit Summary

Resolution 105/2025

Moved: Cr Rosalind Wight

Seconded: Cr Penny Nicholson

The 2025 Rural and Regional Summit summary report, be received and noted.

Carried

8.2 Business

8.2.1 Delivery Program - Operational Plan Quarterly Progress Report

Resolution 106/2025

Moved: Cr David Graham

Seconded: Cr Ethan Ryan

The Delivery Program incorporating the Operational Plan 2024/2025, quarterly progress report, (3rd Quarter, January, February & March), attached to the report, be received and noted.

Carried

8.2.2 The Arts Centre Cootamundra s.355 Committee Meeting Minutes

Resolution 107/2025

Moved: Cr Gil Kelly

Seconded: Cr Logan Collins

The Minutes of The Arts Centre Cootamundra s.355 Committee Meeting held 16 January 2025, 20 February 2025 and 17 April 2025, attached to the report, be received and noted.

Carried

8.2.3 Muttama Hall Management s.355 Committee Meeting Minutes

Resolution 108/2025

Moved: Cr Les Cooper

Seconded: Cr Ethan Ryan

The Minutes of the Muttama Hall Management s.355 Committee Ordinary Meetings held, 16 April 2025, attached to the report, be received and noted.

Carried

8.2.4 Muttama Creek Regeneration Group s.355 Committee Meeting Minutes

Resolution 109/2025

Moved: Cr Ethan Ryan

Seconded: Cr Rosalind Wight

The Minutes of the Muttama Creek Regeneration Group s.355 Committee meeting held, 7 April 2025, attached to the report be, received and noted.

Carried

8.2.5 Cootamundra Showground Users s.355 Committee Meeting Minutes

Resolution 110/2025

Moved: Cr Les Cooper

Seconded: Cr Ethan Ryan

The Minutes of the Cootamundra Showground User s.355 Committee Meeting held on 10 February 2025 and 23 April 2025 attached to the report, be received and noted.

Carried

8.2.6 Cootamundra Heritage Centre Management s.355 Committee Meeting Minutes

Resolution 111/2025

Moved: Cr Logan Collins

Seconded: Cr Rosalind Wight

1. The Minutes of the Cootamundra Heritage Centre Management s.355 Committee Meeting held 7 April 2025 and 5 May 2025, attached to the report, be received and noted.

2. In addition, that the Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council write to Mr Geoff Larsen, with the Mayor and Deputy Mayor’s signatures, thanking him and recognising his service to the Committee and history of Cootamundra and the surrounding area.

Carried

8.2.7 Stockinbingal Ellwood's Hall s.355 Committee Meeting Minutes

Resolution 112/2025

Moved: Cr Les Cooper

Seconded: Cr Penny Nicholson

The Minutes of the Stockinbingal Ellwood’s Hall s.355 Committee Meetings held, 24 April 2025 attached to the report, be received and noted.

Carried

8.3 Finance

8.3.1 Draft Corporate Credit Card Policy

Resolution 113/2025

Moved: Cr David Graham

Seconded: Cr Rosalind Wight

The draft Corporate Credit Card Policy, attached to the report, be adopted.

Carried

8.3.2 Finance Update - April 2025

Resolution 114/2025

Moved: Cr Les Cooper

Seconded: Cr David Graham

The Finance Update report, be received and noted.

Carried

8.3.3 Investment Report - April 2025

Resolution 115/2025

Moved: Cr Ethan Ryan

Seconded: Cr David Graham

The report detailing Council Cash and Investments as at 30^th April 2025, be received and noted.

Carried

8.4 Sustainable Development

Nil

8.5 Engineering Cootamundra

8.5.1 Work Health and Safety (WH&S) Policy

Resolution 116/2025

Moved: Cr Les Cooper

Seconded: Cr Penny Nicholson

That the updated Work Health & Safety Policy, attached to the report, be received and noted.

Carried

8.5.2 Cootamundra Engineering Report - May 2025

Resolution 117/2025

Moved: Cr Logan Collins

Seconded: Cr Gil Kelly

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

Carried

8.6 Engineering Gundagai

8.6.1 Gundagai Engineering Report - May 2025

Resolution 118/2025

Moved: Cr Les Cooper

Seconded: Cr Penny Nicholson

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

Carried

8.6.2 Plant Replacement Program 2025/2026

Resolution 119/2025

Moved: Cr Ethan Ryan

Seconded: Cr Rosalind Wight

1. The 2025/2026 Plant Replacement Program be endorsed.

2. Council endorses the 2025/2026 Plant Replacement Budget of $2.6m gross purchase, $650k asset disposals, resulting in net capital purchase of $1.95m.

3. Following endorsement of the 2025/26 budget, Council authorise the advance ordering of plant given the significant lead times expected.

Carried

8.6.3 Update on Plant Replacement Program 2024/25

Resolution 120/2025

Moved: Cr Les Cooper

Seconded: Cr Ethan Ryan

That Council note the update report on the Plant Replacement Program for 2024/25 financial year.

Carried

8.7 Regional Services Gundagai

8.7.1 Gundagai Regional Services Works Report

Resolution 121/2025

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 122/2025

Moved: Cr Rosalind Wight

Seconded: Cr Logan Collins

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

Carried

9 Motion of which Notice has been Given

Nil

10 Questions with Notice

10.1 Questions with Notice

Motion

Moved: Cr Logan Collins

Seconded: Cr Gil Kelly

That the responses to the Questions with Notice on road infrastructure intersections and roundabouts be noted.

11 Confidential Items

11.1 Closed Council Report

Resolution 123/2025

Moved: Cr Logan Collins

Seconded: Cr Ethan Ryan

1. Council entered Closed Council at 6.27pm.

2. Items 11.2 and 11.3 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.

3. In accordance with section 11 (2) and (3) of the Local Government Act, 1993, the reports, correspondence and other documentation relating to Items 11.2 and 11.3 be withheld from the press and public.

Carried

RESUMPTION OF OPEN COUNCIL MEETING

Resolution 124/2025

Moved: Cr Les Cooper

Seconded: Cr Ethan Ryan

That the Open Council meeting resume 6.28pm.

Carried

ANNOUNCEMENT OF CLOSED COUNCIL RESOLUTIONS

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

11.2 RFT 2025/5 - Tender for Water and Sewer Mains Replacement in Gundagai

Resolution 125/2025

Moved: Cr David Graham

Seconded: Cr Logan Collins

1. That Trazlbat Pty Ltd be awarded the tender for RFT 2025/5 for a total price of $563,055.00 (inc GST).

2. Delegate authority to the Interim General Manager to execute all necessary documentation associated with this contract and expend funds as per the contract.

Carried

11.3 Cootamundra Material Recovery Facility Contract

Resolution 126/2025

Moved: Cr Ethan Ryan

Seconded: Cr Gil Kelly

(i) That Council authorises the Interim General Manager (IGM) to enter into negotiations to exercise the five-year extension option of the contract with the current contractor of the Cootamundra Material Recovery Facility (MRF), Elouera Association Incorporated (ABN 20 240 705 660) and, if the outcome is satisfactory, to accept and finalise the contract. In doing so, the IGM is to have regard to the proposed changes outlined in the report.

Carried

The Meeting closed at 6.30pm.

The minutes of this meeting were confirmed at the Ordinary Council Meeting held on 24 June 2025.


CHAIRPERSON	GENERAL MANAGER

Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

24 June 2025

8.2.4 Applications for Community Donations 2025

DOCUMENT NUMBER

439354

REPORTING OFFICER

Linda Wiles, Manager Business

AUTHORISING OFFICER

Roger Bailey, Interim General Manager

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

Total financial implication is $41,200.00 from Annual Community Donation Budget.

LEGISLATIVE IMPLICATIONS

There are no Legislative implications associated with this report.

POLICY IMPLICATIONS

To comply with the Community Donations Policy.

ATTACHMENTS

Nil

Recommendation

1. Council provides $150 to schools in the LGA from the annual community donations budget, incorporating Gundagai High, Gundagai Public, Gundagai South Public, St. Patricks Primary, Nangus Public, Bongonga Public, Cootamundra High, Cootamundra Public, E.A Southee Public, Sacred Heart Central, Elouera Special, and Stockinbingal Public, totalling $1,800.

2. Council review applications received and determine successful donation recipients from the remaining $39,400.

Introduction

Each year Council determines an annual community donations budget, this is then allocated each year in June to successful applications of the community donations program.

Discussion

Council advertised through its usual mediums inviting community groups, schools, and local clubs to apply for a donation in accordance with its Community Donations Policy.

Applications were received until 5pm Friday 30 May 2025 for consideration by Council.

This year, the applications received exceeded $82,000. Council’s 25/26 budget is $41,200.

Council has assessed each application on its individual merits based on how it will benefit the CGRC community. Details of successful applications will be made available on Council’s website for the information of the community.

To ensure as many applicants receive a portion of the donations budget as possible, it has been necessary to reduce the amount requested for many applications.

A summary of each application is included in the table below. Late applications have been included separately at the bottom of the table.

Organisation Name	$ Requested		Purpose/ Project (Summary) *See applications for full details.
Organisation Name	$	In-Kind
Cootamundra Veterans Week of Golf	$ 1,000.00	$ -	Week of Golf for men and women over the age of 55. Sponsorship for the 54 Hole individual winners.
Cootamundra Turf Club	$ 20,000.00		To assist supporting the purchase of the new WIFI Speaker system costing $20,000
E.A Southee Public School	$ 500.00		Funds to purchase book prices for Students for annual presentation days
Cootamundra Public School	$ -	$ 800.00	Request for 2 days hire of town hall to conduct the annual presentation day awards.
Gundagai Neighbourhood Centre Inc	$ -	$ 5,720.00	Rent Waiver - request for in-kind support of waiving annual rent fees for Gundagai Neighbourhood Centre
Lions Club of Cootamundra	$ 750.00	$ 500.00	Annual Christmas fair and fireworks display located at Fisher Park Cootamundra. Fireworks & facility hire etc.
Cootamundra Health Care Co-Operative Ltd (Adina Care)	$ 10,000.00		Cootamundra Beach Volleyball Carnival - Assist with costs of services required at the event including Ambulance, SES. Assist with construction costs to build a permanent stage for the event.
Cootamundra High School	$ 200.00		Presentation Day awards
Cootamundra Riffle Club	$ 2,796.00		Council Rates - to assist with the financial stability of the club.
Cootamundra Sports Foundation	$ 1,000.00		1. Sports person of the Year award. 2. Promotion of sport in the town via website. 3. Annual Donations to local Junior sportspeople and sporting clubs.
NSW Branch Australian Carriage Driving Society	$ 2,000.00		Carriage driving championship event 24-26 October 2025 at Gundagai Showgrounds
Cootamundra Bridge Club	$ 2,000.00		To assist with costs associated with the Cootamundra Bridge Congress 30-31 August 2025
Stockinbingal Public School	$ 150.00		Annual presentation night.
Adina Care Cootamundra	$ 5,000.00		Intergenerational Program with local schools, community members and Adina Care residents.
S.I South West Slopes	$ 4,300.00		Women in Sports Dinner 1 August 2025.
Stockinbingal Community Newsletter	$ 1,000.00		Printing cost of monthly Stockinbingal Newsletter.
Riding for the Disabled	$ 11,444.48		1. Purchase of Commercial Washing Machine $6444.48 2. $5000 towards Hay for 2025.
	$62,140.48	$7,020.00
LATE APPLICATIONS:
The Art Centre Cootamundra	$ 5,145.00		The funds will be spent on equipment that will be used for a variety of ongoing and ad hoc events held at The Arts Centre Cootamundra
Heritage Centre Cootamundra	$ 1,000.00		Display Cabinet for Centre
Battle of the Bidgee Inc	$ 5,000.00		Battle on the Bidgee Stockmans Challenge – a three day event held down at the Gundagai Showgrounds. 2nd weekend of October.
Defenders of Australia Club		$ 2,000.00	Land Rover Gundagai Convoy event, in-kind donation to cover traffic control for event.
	$11,145.00	$2,000.00

TOTAL	$73,285.48	$9,020.00
Grant Total	$82,305.48

The above summary is in order of when the application was received.

Financial

Council has previously resolved to allocate appropriate provision for the annual community donation program budget and that it is increased each year in line with the consumer price index (CPI).

Please note, application received from the Lions Club of Cootamundra included a request for $500 in-kind support. These funds will be absorbed from the Fisher Park budget.

OLG 23a Guideline consideration

Does not conflict with guidelines.

Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

24 June 2025

8.2.5 Final Community Strategic Plan, Delivery Program and Operational Plan

DOCUMENT NUMBER

438879

REPORTING OFFICER

Anne Chamberlain, Governance Officer

AUTHORISING OFFICER

Roger Bailey, Interim General Manager

RELEVANCE TO COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN

4. Good governance: an actively engaged community and strong leadership team

4.3 Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council is a premier local government Council

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

There are no Financial implications associated with this report.

LEGISLATIVE IMPLICATIONS

To comply with s.402, s404 & S.405 of the Local Government Act 1993.

POLICY IMPLICATIONS

To comply with OLG IP&R Guidelines and Handbook

ATTACHMENTS

1. Community Strategic Plan (CSP) ⇩

2. 2025-2029 Delivery Program ⇩

3. 2025/2026 Operational Plan ⇩

4. 2025-2029 Workforce Management Plan ⇩

5. Submission - Murrumbidgee Local Health District ⇩

6. Submission - Brendan Price ⇩

Recommendation

1. Council acknowledges the submissions received in response to the public exhibition of the draft, Community Strategic Plan (CSP) draft 2025/2029 Delivery Program (DP), (incorporating the Long-Term financial Plan) and draft 2025/2026 Operational Plan (OP), (incorporating Revenue Policy, Fees & Charges and budget) and Workforce Management.

2. The draft Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council 2025-2035 Community Strategic Plan (CSP), draft 2025-2029 Delivery Program (DP), (incorporating the 10-year LTFP), draft 2025-2026 Operational Plan (OP) (incorporating Budget, Revenue Policy, and fees & Charges), with the amendments to the fees and charges within the Revenue Policy, be adopted.

a) Caravan Park License – ‘Plus per site fee’ added.

b) Rates Section 603 Certificates – Legislated fee updated $100 per assessment.

c) Council notes the fee of 1% to be charged to all council Point of Service (POS) for payments made by Credit card to recover Merchant Fees charged by financial institutions.

d) The Effluent charge for 2025/2026 has been determined at $1.50kL.

3. The draft Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council 2025/2029 Workforce Management Plan (Part of the Resourcing Strategy) be endorsed by Council.

Introduction

At its Ordinary Meeting held 27 May, 2025, Council resolved to place the draft Community Strategic Plan (CSP) on public exhibition for twenty-eight (28) days. The public exhibition period ended on the 17 June, 2025.

The Draft Community Strategic Plan (CSP), draft 2025/2029 Delivery Program (incorporating the Long-Term financial Plan), Draft 2025/2026 Operational Plan (incorporating the Revenue Policy, Fees and Charges and budget) and Workforce Management Plan was placed on public exhibition in accordance with the Office of Local Government Integrated Planning & Reporting (IP&R) Handbook and the Local Government Act, 1993. Notice of the exhibition and invitations for submissions were advertised in the Council Snippets and Newsletters. It was also published on Council’s website.

Discussion

Council received two (2) submission during the public exhibition period.

A full copy of the submission received has been attached to the report. Submission recipient and date received below:

Alison Nikitas, Director Public Health – Murrumbidgee Local Health District – 11 June 2025.

The following strategies in the Community Strategic Plan currently support the objectives of this submission.

1.1a Quality Health and well-being services that support the changing needs of the community throughout the lifecycle through government and non-government organisations.

1.1b Provide opportunities for the recreational use of parks, sporting facilities, swimming pools by ensuring they are safe, maintained, managed and meet the needs of all community members.

1.1d: Work closely with Murrumbidgee Local Health Rural Operations representatives to provide input into Health Programs to ensure services, programs and reforms are communicated and implemented throughout the LGA.

1.2a: Support initiatives and facilities that encourage social inclusion and community connections.

1.2e Ensure implementation of Disability Inclusion Action Plan elements across the LGA.

The Objectives and Strategies outlined in this submission will be taken into consideration in forward planning of our four-year Delivery plan and Annual Operational Plan.

Brendan Price – dog on the Tuckerbox – 17 June 2025

This submission requests the existing objective of the 2022-2025 Delivery Program be carried over into the 2025-2029 Delivery Program.

2.1F(1):

Seek funding to create visitor servicing hub at Snake Gully/Dog on the Tuckerbox

Measures of success:

• Funding secured to establish visitor servicing hub

• Funding secured for engineering consultant to develop water pipeline plan

• Funding secured to develop water and sewerage solution for the area

• Program of works systems developed for the area

Additionally, there are four (4) amendments received from CGRC staff, which are summarised below:

Updates to Fees and Charges

Caravan Park License

Modification to approval to operate park or manufactured home estate, plus per site fee. (Page 36 of the fees and charges)

Rates and property information

Rates – Section 603 Certificates – Legislated fee updated. $100 per assessment. (Page 10 of the fees and charges)

Merchant Fees

That Council note the fee of 1% to be charged at all council Points of Service (POS) for payments made by Credit Card for the purpose of recovering Merchant Fees charged by financial institutions on all comparable transactions. Wording updated in fees and charges.

Effluent Reuse Charges

The Effluent Reuse charge has been determined at $1.5kL.

The fees and charges will be provided as an additional attachment under separate Cover.

A. minor Budget related items for Noting

A(i). That Council note the reapportionment of interest on investments across Council funds as contained in the Table below and included in the copy placed on public exhibition.

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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

24 June 2025

8.3 Finance

8.3.1 2025/26 Rates and Annual Charges

DOCUMENT NUMBER

439987

REPORTING OFFICER

Peter Smith, Interim Finance Manager

AUTHORISING OFFICER

Roger Bailey, Interim General Manager

RELEVANCE TO COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN

4. Collaborative and progressive leadership

4.2 Proactive, practical Council leaders who are aligned with community needs and values

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

The Financial implications associated with this report are listed in the body of the report.

LEGISLATIVE IMPLICATIONS

In accordance with the provisions of Section 535 of the Local Government Act 1993.

POLICY IMPLICATIONS

There are no Policy implications associated with this report.

ATTACHMENTS

Nil

RECOMMENDATION

1. ORDINARY RATES

In accordance with the provisions of Section 535 of the Local Government Act 1993 Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council hereby resolves to make the following rates for the 2025/26 rating year:

a) Farmland Category Rate of 0.123418 cents in the dollar, with a base amount of $414.55 per assessment, for all rateable land within the Farmland Category in Council’s area, as defined in Section 515 of the Local Government Act 1993, based upon the land value at a base valuation date of 1 July 2024. The base amount for the Farmland Category is estimated to realise 9.80% of the total yield in this category.

b) Residential Category Rate of 0.388625 cents in the dollar, with a base amount of $414.55 per assessment, for all rateable land within the Residential Category in Council’s area, as defined in Section 516 of the Local Government Act 1993, based upon the land value at a base valuation date of 1 July 2024. The base amount for the Residential Category is estimated to realise 39.79% of the total yield of this category.

c) Business Category Rate of 1.221569 cents in the dollar, with a base amount of $414.55 per assessment, for all rateable land within the Business Category in Council’s area, as defined in Section 518 of the Local Government Act 1993, based upon the land value at a base valuation date of 1 July 2024. The base amount for the Business Category is estimated to realise 16.26% of the total yield of this category.

d) Mining Rate of 0.300865 cents in the dollar, with a base amount of $414.55 per assessment, for all rateable land within the Mining Category in Council’s area, as defined in Section 517 of the Local Government Act 1993, based upon the land value at a base valuation date of 1 July 2024.

2. WASTE MANAGEMENT CHARGES

In accordance with the provisions of Sections 535, 496 and 501 of the Local Government Act 1993 Council hereby resolves to make the following domestic waste management and waste management charges for the 2025/26 rating year:

a) Domestic Waste Management Charge of $590.00 per annual service for each parcel of rateable residential land within the Gundagai, Cootamundra, Stockinbingal & Wallendbeen Scavenging Areas for which the service is available, excluding vacant and unoccupied land. The levying of such charge is to entitle the ratepayer to a regular weekly service of one 120 litre bin for domestic rubbish and a fortnightly service of one 240 litre bin for recyclable domestic rubbish.

b) Green Waste/Organics Charge of $77.00 per annual service for each parcel of rateable residential land within the Gundagai, Cootamundra, Stockinbingal & Wallendbeen Scavenging Areas for which the service is available, excluding vacant and unoccupied land. The levying of such charge is to entitle the ratepayer to a regular fortnightly service of one 240 litre bin for green domestic waste.

c) Residential Waste Management – Other Charge of $590.00 per annual service for each assessment of residential land outside of the Gundagai, Cootamundra, Stockinbingal & Wallendbeen Scavenging Areas, for which the service is available and required. The levying of such charge is to entitle the ratepayer to a regular weekly service of one 140 litre bin for domestic rubbish, a fortnightly service of one 240 litre bin for recyclable domestic rubbish. (Ratepayers for whom this service is requested and available, may also elect to be provided with a Green Waste/Organics service subject to the charge as noted in d) below.)

d) Green Waste/Organics Charge – Other Charge of $77.00 per annual service for each assessment of residential land outside of the Gundagai, Cootamundra, Stockinbingal & Wallendbeen Scavenging Areas, for which the service is available and required. The levying of such charge is to entitle the ratepayer to a regular fortnightly service of one 240 litre bin for domestic green waste

e) Rural Waste Charge of $87.00 on each parcel of rateable land outside the Gundagai, Cootamundra, Stockinbingal & Wallendbeen Scavenging areas, and for which there is no service being provided as noted in c) above.

f) Commercial Waste Management Charge of $590.00 per service for the removal of waste (one 240 litre general waste pickup per week and one 240 litre recyclable waste pickup per fortnight) from Non-Residential properties for which the service is requested and available. Multiple services will be charged for multiple bins and/or collections per week.

g) Unoccupied (Vacant Land) Waste Charge of $87.00 on each parcel of rateable land within the Gundagai, Cootamundra, Stockinbingal & Wallendbeen Scavenging areas for which a domestic waste management service is available, but the land is vacant and unoccupied.

3. STORMWATER MANAGEMENT SERVICE CHARGE

In accordance with the provisions of Section 535, 496A and 510A of the Local Government Act 1993, Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council hereby resolves to make the following annual stormwater management service charges, in respect of occupied rateable land within the urban area of Cootamundra, excepting Council owned or controlled parks, land and buildings, or other land exempt as per Section 496A(2) of the Local Government Act 1993, for the 2025/26 rating year:

a) Residential Stormwater Management Charge of $25.00 per annum per residential assessment of occupied rateable land within the townships of Gundagai & Cootamundra, excepting Council owned or controlled parks, lands and buildings, or other land exempt as per Section 496A(2) of the Local Government Act 1993, and excluding land that is part of a residential strata allotment.

b) Residential Strata Stormwater Management Charge of $12.50 per annum per residential Strata assessment within the townships of Gundagai & Cootamundra, excepting Council owned or controlled parks, lands and buildings, or other land exempt as per Section 496A(2) of the Local Government Act 1993.

c) Business (Non-Residential) Stormwater Management Charge of $25.00 for each 350 square meters of area of land or part thereof of land categorised as business, subject to a minimum of $25.00 per annum per assessment and a maximum charge of $250.00 per annum per assessment within the townships of Gundagai & Cootamundra, excepting Council owned or controlled parks, lands and buildings, or other land exempt as per Section 496A(2) of the Local Government Act 1993.

c) Business (Non-Residential) Stormwater Management Charge being the greater of $5.00, or the assessment’s proportion of the charge that would apply if the total land area was not strata’d, per annum per business strata assessment within the townships of Gundagai & Cootamundra, excepting Council owned or controlled parks, lands and buildings, or other land exempt as per Section 496A(2) of the Local Government Act 1993.

4. ON-SITE SEWERAGE MANAGEMENT ADMINISTRATION CHARGE

In accordance with the provisions of Sections 535 and 501 of the Local Government Act 1993 Council hereby resolves to make the following domestic waste management and waste management charges for the 2025/26 rating year:

On-Site Sewerage Management Administration Charge of $54.00 per annum for properties for which on-site sewerage services are available and connected.

5. WATER CONSUMPTION CHARGES

In accordance with the provisions of Section 535 and 502 of the Local Government Act 1993, Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council hereby resolves to make the following water consumption charges for the 2025/26 rating year:

a) Water Usage Charge of $2.49 per kilolitre for usage up to and including 39 kilolitres per quarter, and thereafter $3.74 per kilolitre for water usage exceeding 39 kilolitres per quarter, for all land connected to the water supply, excepting that land as identified as subject to the charges in 5.b) below.

b) Non-Residential Community Water Usage Charge of $1.95 per kilolitre for usage up to and including 39 kilolitres per quarter, and thereafter $2.80 per kilolitre for usage exceeding 39 kilolitres per quarter, for land to which the water supply is available and connected and whereby Council has by resolution identified the assessment as being subject to Non-Residential Community Water Usage charges.

6. NON-RESIDENTIAL SEWER USAGE CHARGES

In accordance with the provisions of Section 535 and 502 of the Local Government Act 1993, Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council hereby resolves to make the following non-residential sewer usage charges for the 2025/26 rating year:

Non-Residential Sewer Usage Charge of $3.32 per kilolitre of the volume of sewerage discharged. The volume of sewerage discharged shall be calculated by multiplying the volume of water measured at the water meter(s) connected to the property, based on actual usage per kilolitre, by the sewerage discharge factors (SDF) for the predominant use of the land as follows:

PROPERTY USE	SDF %
Concrete Plant, Park Watering	2
Pool	10
Bowling Green, Clubhouse	20
Caravan Park	60
Community use (as defined in Community Based Not For Profit Organisations)	50
Hospital, Motel	85
General business, RLPB, Pharmacy, Medical Centre, Bakery, Restaurant/Hotel/Club, Takeaway food, McDonalds, Service Station, Dentist, Butcher, Hairdresser, Supermarket, Carwash	95
Sewer Well	100

7. WATER ACCESS CHARGES

The annual water access charges as identified below are charged quarterly in arrears.

In accordance with the provisions of Section 535 and 501 of the Local Government Act 1993, Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council hereby resolves to make the following annual water access charges for the 2025/26 rating year:

a) Residential Water Access Charge on residential land to which the water supply is available and connected, excluding land that is part of a residential strata allotment, in accordance with the number and size of water service meters connected to the land as follows;

Water Meter Size	Annual Charge
20mm	$517.00
25mm	$810.00
32mm	$1,327.00
40mm	$2,072.00
50mm	$3,238.00
63mm	$5,143.00
75mm	$7,286.00
80mm	$8,291.00
100mm	$12,955.00

b) Residential Strata Water Access Charge of $517.00 per annum per residential Strata assessment for which the water supply is available and connected.

c) Non-Residential Water Access Charge in respect of non-residential land to which the water supply is available and connected, excluding land that is part of a strata allotment and that land that is identified as liable for charges outlined in 7.e) below, in accordance with the number and size of water service meters connected to the parcel as follows (excluding fire service meters);

Water Meter Size	Annual Charge
20mm	$517.00
25mm	$810.00
32mm	$1,327.00
40mm	$2,072.00
50mm	$3,238.00
63mm	$5,143.00
75mm	$7,286.00
80mm	$8,291.00
100mm	$12,955.00

d) Non-Residential Strata Water Access Charge of $517.00 per annum per non-residential Strata assessment for which the water supply is available and connected.

e) Non-Residential Community Water Access Charge in respect of non-residential land to which the water supply is available and connected, and whereby Council has by resolution identified the assessment as being subject to Non-Residential Community Water Access charges, in accordance with the number and size of water service meters connected to the parcel as follows (excluding fire service meters):

Water Meter Size	Annual Charge
20mm	$259.00
25mm	$405.00
32mm	$663.00
40mm	$1,036.00
50mm	$1,619.00
80mm	$4,145.00
100mm	$6,477.00

8. VACANT WATER ACCESS CHARGES

In accordance with the provisions of Section 535 and 501 of the Local Government Act 1993, Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council hereby resolves to make the following annual vacant water access charges for the 2025/26 rating year:

a) Vacant Residential Water Access Charge of $517.00 per annum per residential assessment to which the water supply is available but not connected.

b) Vacant Non-Residential Water Access Charge of $517.00 per annum per non-residential assessment to which the water supply is available but not connected.

c) Vacant Non-Residential Community Water Access Charge of $259.00 per annum per non-residential assessment whereby Council has by resolution identified the assessment as being subject to the Vacant Non-Residential Community Water Access Charge.

9. SEWER ACCESS CHARGES

The annual sewer access charges as identified below are charged quarterly in arrears.

In accordance with the provisions of Section 535 and 501 of the Local Government Act 1993, Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council hereby resolves to make the following annual sewer access charges for the 2025/26 rating year:

a) Residential Sewer Access Charge of $749.00 per annum per residence to which sewerage services are available and connected.

b) Non-Residential Sewer Access Charge in respect of non-residential land to which sewerage services are available and connected, excepting land identified as liable for the charges as outlined in 9.c) below, in accordance with the number and size of the water service meters connected to the land as follows (excluding fire service meters);

Water Meter Size	Annual Charge
20mm	$624.00
25mm	$749.00
32mm	$873.00
40mm	$1,198.00
50mm	$1,498.00
63mm	$1,887.00
75mm	$2,247.00
80mm	$2,396.00
100mm	$2,997.00

c) Non-Residential Community Sewer Access Charge in respect of non-residential land to which sewerage services are available and connected, and whereby Council has by resolution identified the assessment as being subject to Non-Residential Community Sewer Access charges, in accordance with the number and size of water service meters connected to the land as follows (excluding fire service meters):

Water Meter Size	Annual Charge
20mm	$312.00
25mm	$375.00
32mm	$437.00
40mm	$599.00
50mm	$749.00
80mm	$1,198.00
100mm	$1,498.00

10. VACANT SEWER ACCESS CHARGES

a) Vacant Residential Sewer Access Charge of $438.00 per annum per residential assessment to which the water supply is available but not connected.

b) Vacant Non-Residential Sewer Access Charge of $438.00 per annum per non-residential assessment to which the water supply is available but not connected.

c) Vacant Non-Residential Community Sewer Access Charge of $219.00 per annum per non-residential assessment to which sewerage services are available but not connected, and whereby Council has by resolution identified the assessment as being subject to Vacant Non-Residential Community Access Charges.

11. LIQUID TRADE WASTE CHARGES

The annual trade waste charges as identified below are charged bi-annual in arrears. In accordance with the provisions of Section 535 and 502 of the Local Government Act 1993, Council hereby resolves to make the following trade waste charges for the 2025/26 rating year:

a) Trade Waste Annual Fee on non-residential land connected to the sewerage service of $250.00 where liquid trade waste is discharged.

b) Trade Waste Usage Charge on (Category 2) non-residential land connected to the sewerage service of $4.33 per kilolitre of the estimated volume of liquid trade waste discharged to the sewerage system with prescribed pre-treatment. The volume of liquid trade waste discharged shall be calculated by multiplying the volume of water measured at the water meter(s) connected to the property, based on actual usage per kilolitre, by the trade waste discharge factors (TWDF) for the predominant use of the property as follows:

PROPERTY USE	TWDF %
Concrete Plant, Park Watering & Sewer Well	1
Pool, Bowling Green, Clubhouse & General Business	10
RLPB, Pharmacy, Medical Centre	20
Caravan Park, School & Bakery, Community use (as defined in Community Based Not for Profit Organisations)	25
Motel, Restaurant, Hotel, Club	30
Takeaway food	50
McDonalds	62
Service Station	70
Dentist	80
Hospital	85
Butcher, Hairdresser, Supermarket, Carwash	90

12. INTEREST ON OVERDUE RATES & CHARGES

Interest on overdue rates and charges for the 2025/26 rating year has been set by Council at the maximum rate of interest payable as determined by the Minister of Local Government of 10.5% per annum, calculated daily, in accordance with Section 566 of the Local Government Act 1993.

13. COMMUNITY BASED NOT FOR PROFIT ORGANISATIONS

Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council hereby resolves to make the assessments shown below as being those assessments to which Non-Residential Community Water Access Charges, Non-Residential Community Sewer Access Charges, Non-Residential Community Water Usage Charges, and Community Use Sewerage and Trade Waste Discharge Factors shall apply as follows:

Assessment	Name of Owner/Occupier	Use of Land
Religious Organisations
10001451	Sacred Heart Parish	Convent and Place of Worship
10001477	Catholic Church Trustees	Place of Worship
10001485	Catholic Church Trustees	Minister's Residence/Place of Worship
10008142	Presbyterian Church	Place of Worship
10013340	Jehovah's Witnesses Congregations	Place of Worship
10013423	Salvation Army	Minister's Residence/Place of Worship
10015444	Church Of The Foursquare Gospel	Place of Worship
10015832	Baptist Church Of NSW	Place of Worship
10017119	Anglican Church Property Trust Diocese	Minister's Residence/Place of Worship
10017135	Anglican Church Of Australia	Place of Worship
10029445	Uniting Church	Church Hall and Place of Worship
10029478	Uniting Church	Place of Worship
10039766	Australasian Conference Association Ltd	Place of Worship
11011715	Anglican Church Property Trust Dc & G	Place of Worship
11018389	Anglican Church Property Trust Dc & G	Place of Worship
11019627	Roman Catholic Church	Place of Worship
Local Sporting, Charitable & Community Groups
10006328	Society of St Vincent de Paul	Public Charity
10008399	Boy Scouts Association	Community Group
10008431	Cootamundra Ex-Servicemen's and Citizens Club	Community Facility
10008837	Australian Red Cross Society	Public Charity
10008845	Australian Red Cross Society	Public Charity
10009660	Showground Users Committee	Community Facility
10010320	The Cootamundra Country Club Ltd	Community Facility
10010882	CADAS Coota West	Community Group/Facility
10011955	Southern Cross Care - Retirement Village	Community Facility
10012060	Elouera Association Incorporated	Public Charity/Community Organisation
10015725	Cootamundra Wattle Guides	Community Group/Facility
10017556	Cootamundra Squash Assoc	Community Sporting Facility
10018877	Elouera Association Incorporated	Public Charity/Community Organisation
10030450	Town Tennis Club	Community Sporting Facility
10030468	Cootamundra Rugby League Club	Community Sporting Facility
10033223	Cootamundra Preschool Incorporated	Community Facility
10035780	Cootamundra Lions Club	Community Group
10039246	Coota Health Care Co-Op - Nursing Home	Community Facility
10039865	Elouera Cootamundra Assn Pty Ltd	Public Charity/Community Organisation
10045698	Cootamundra Strikers Soccer Club	Community Sporting Facility
10046159	Elouera Association Incorporated	Public Charity/Community Organisation
11011913	Gundagai Pre-School Kindergarten	Community Facility
11015922	Gundagai Common Trust	Community Group/Facility
11016136	Gundagai Racecourse and Showground Land	Community Sporting & Rec Facility
11019452	Gundagai District Services Club Ltd	Community Facility
11019460	Gundagai District Services Club Ltd	Community Facility
11019569	Valmar Support Services Ltd	Community Facility
11019965	Gundagai District Services Club Ltd	Community Facility
11019973	Gundagai District Services Club Ltd	Community Facility
11021318	Gundagai Scout Group	Community Group/Facility
11021730	Gundagai District Services Club Ltd	Community Facility
11032836	Gundagai Historic Bridges Committee Inc.	Community Group/Facility
11037132	South Gundagai Common Trust	Community Group/Facility

Introduction

Section 535 of the Local Government Act, 1993 requires that rates and charges must be made by resolution of Council.

Discussion

The provisions of Section 532 of the Local Government Act, 1993 specify that a council must not make a rate or charge until it has given public notice (in accordance with Section 405(3)) of its Draft Operational Plan for the year for which the rate or charge is to be made and has considered any matters concerning the Draft Operational Plan (in accordance with Section 405(5)).

Council has fulfilled the public notice obligation and the rates and charges for 2025/26
must be made by resolution of Council.

Financial Implications

There are no financial implications associated with this report.

OLG 23a Guideline consideration

Does not conflict with guidelines.

Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

24 June 2025

8.3.2 Finance Update - May 2025

DOCUMENT NUMBER

440150

REPORTING OFFICER

Damian Smith, Accountant

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 May Finance Update has been reviewed and no issues have been detected.

Operations

Income

The operational income is at 85% 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	$659,068	$647,616	102%	J	Fees from new development in Cootamundra received
Business Department	$77,353	$311,600	25%	L	Need to check if Library Grants ($100K) and Starry nights funding ($122K) have been received.
Engineering Cootamundra	$5,942,166	$6,642,489	89%	J
Engineering Gundagai	$142,734	$2,654,988	5%	L	Need to follow up on Plant Hire fees and where they have been charged.
Executive Department	$88,117	$223,600	39%	K
Finance Department	$8,224,413	$10,517,795	78%	J
Rates Cootamundra	$6,801,789	$7,028,139	97%	J
Rates Gundagai	$4,407,916	$4,532,162	97%	J
Services Cootamundra	$3,790,329	$3,633,750	104%	J
Services Gundagai	$1,436,913	$1,610,000	89%	J
Sewer Cootamundra	$2,585,657	$2,910,807	89%	J
Sewer Gundagai	$645,678	$768,442	84%	J
Water Cootamundra	$3,123,818	$3,267,356	96%	J
Water Gundagai	$1,539,616	$1,629,444	94%	J
Total	$39,465,567	$46,378,188	85%	J

Expenditure

Operational Expenditure is at 82% when comparing actual to budget.

Department	Expense Actual	Expense Budget	% Spent	Result	Comment
Building Department	$1,473,707	$1,763,671	84%	J
Business Department	$3,118,559	$3,499,004	89%	J
Engineering Cootamundra	$10,498,312	$9,576,544	110%	L
Engineering Gundagai	$5,967,864	$5,210,819	115%	L
Executive Department	$1,921,968	$2,348,537	82%	J
Finance Department	$13,205,616	$20,447,706	65%	J
Services Cootamundra	$4,898,353	$5,744,946	85%	J
Services Gundagai	$2,197,580	$2,608,305	84%	J
Sewer Cootamundra	$646,528	$1,581,693	41%	K
Sewer Gundagai	$532,718	$784,319	68%	J
Water Cootamundra	$2,413,645	$2,812,625	86%	J
Water Gundagai	$620,932	$1,210,655	51%	K
Total	$47,495,783	$57,588,824	82%	J

Capital

Income

Capital income is at 23% of budget when comparing actual to budget.

Asset Category	Total YTD.	Budget	%Received	Result	Comments
Plant & Equipment - Cootamundra	253,042.40	$473,550	53%	K
Plant & Equipment - Gundagai	207,474.14	$498,950	42%	K
Property Disposal – Cootamundra	$0	$1,000,000	0%	L
Property Disposal – Gundagai	$0	$0	0%	J
TOTAL	$460,517	$1,972,500	23%	J

Expenditure

Capital expenditure is at 55% 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	1,788,563.53	$3,697,854	48%	J	Works schedule to be completed by EOFY
Cootamundra Building	520,245.14	$1,059,556	49%	J
Cootamundra Recreation	617,377.96	$594,117	104%	J
Cootamundra Waste	203,786.87	$242,000	84%	J
Cootamundra Bridges	-	$0	0%	J
Cootamundra Water	748,976.26	$1,036,527	72%	J
Cootamundra Sewer	749,811.84	$3,070,300	24%	J
Gundagai Building	266,868.00	$931,858	29%	K
Gundagai Recreation	365,086.62	$1,071,273	34%	K
Gundagai Waste	-	$720,000	0%	J
Gundagai Bridges	1,480,417.44	$1,480,757	100%	J
Gundagai Plant	1,193,346.96	$1,300,000	92%	J
Gundagai Roads	2,283,367.13	$2,815,746	81%	J
Gundagai Water	1,129,674.93	$3,241,336	35%	K
Gundagai Sewer	183,417.98	$633,000	29%	K
IT	28,250.00	$50,000	57%	J
Total	$13,392,100	$24,388,373	55%	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

24 June 2025

8.4 Sustainable Development

8.4.1 DA2025/013 - Proposed subdivision and dwelling, including a clause 4.6 variation to a development standard - Ingolds Lane, Cootamundra

DOCUMENT NUMBER

438108

REPORTING OFFICER

Laura Schweiger, Town Planner

AUTHORISING OFFICER

Roger Bailey, Interim General Manager

RELEVANCE TO COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN

2. A region for the future

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

3. Protected and enhanced environment

3.1 A natural environment is valued and protected

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 is no Policy implications associated with this report.

ATTACHMENTS

1. DA assessment report ⇩

2. Statement of environmental effects (SEE) ⇩

3. Clasue 4.6 submission ⇩

Recommendation

That Council refuse the following development application, for reasons stated:

§ Application No.: DA2025/013

§ Property: Lot 2 DP 1244151, 1068 Cullinga Road, Wallendbeen, NSW 2588, and Lots 291 and 292 DP 753604 and Lot 2 DP 113978, Ingolds Lane, COOTAMUNDRA NSW 2590

§ Development: Subdivision and dwelling house – boundary adjustment and consolidation to create two (2) lots of 33.4 ha and 293 ha, and to erect a dwelling house on the proposed 33.4 ha lot.

REASONS FOR REFUSAL

1. Pursuant to Section 4.15(1)(a)(i) of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, the application does not demonstrate how the proposed development supports the Aims of the Plan under Section 1.2(2)(a), (b), (c) and (d) of the Cootamundra Local Environmental Plan 2013.

2. Pursuant to Section 4.15(1)(a)(i) of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, the proposed development is inconsistent with, or does not meet, the objectives of the RU1 Primary Production zone, under the Cootamundra Local Environmental Plan 2013.

3. Pursuant to Section 4.15(1)(a)(i) of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, the proposed development does not meet the 200-ha minimum lot size requirement of clause 4.2A of the Cootamundra Local Environmental Plan 2013.

4. Pursuant to Section 4.15(1)(a)(i) of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, the application has failed to demonstrate to the satisfaction of Council, that compliance with the development standard is unreasonable or unnecessary in the circumstance, as required by Clause 4.6(3)(a) of the Cootamundra Local Environmental Plan 2013.

5. Pursuant to Section 4.15(1)(a)(i) of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, the application has failed to demonstrate to the satisfaction of Council, that there are sufficient environmental planning grounds to justify contravening the development standard, as required by Clause 4.6(3)(b) Cootamundra Local Environmental Plan 2013.

6. Pursuant to Section 4.15(1)(b) of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, the likely impacts of the development are unacceptable, as the development would result in the fragmentation and loss of agricultural land, in the RU1 Primary Production zone.

7. Pursuant to Section 4.15(1)(c) of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, the site is not considered suitable for the proposed development, as it would prejudice future agricultural production.

8. Pursuant to Section 4.15(1)(d) of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, the development is not in the public interest given the significant variation proposed to the minimum lots size, the inconsistency with the zone objectives, and sufficient justification for contravening the development standard has not been provided.

Introduction

The proposed development seeks to undertake a subdivision (boundary adjustment and consolidation) to create two (2) lots of 33.4 ha and 293 ha, and erect a dwelling house on the proposed 33.4 ha lot. The proposed development would be carried out in two (2) stages, being:

§ Stage 1 – Subdivision - boundary adjustment between Lot 2 DP 1244151 and Lot 292 DP 754604, and the consolidation of Lot 2 DP 113978 into the new lots, to create a 33.4 ha lot (proposed Lot 2) and a 293-ha lot (proposed Lot 1), and the creation of right of carriageway over Lot 291 DP 753604 to benefit proposed Lot 2.

§ Stage 2 – Erection of a dwelling house on the 33.4 ha lot (proposed Lot 2).

Greater detail on the proposed development, along with plans of the proposed development are included in the attached DA assessment report (pages 7 – 12).

The subject site is located approximately 11 km to the northeast of the Cootamundra township and approximately 7 km to the south of Wallendbeen Village. The land is adjoined by Ingolds Lane to the south, Old Gundagai Road to the west and Harris Lane to the north. The attached DA assessment report provides a more detailed description of the locality and the site itself, including locality maps and aerial imagery (pages 1 – 7).

History of the development proposal

A detailed timeline and history of the proposed development can be found in the attached development application (DA) assessment report (pages 13 – 15). In summary, a development application (DA2023/137) was submitted in 2023 for the subdivision of the land and the establishment of a dwelling building envelope on the resulting 33 ha lot. As the proposal involved a variation to the minimum lot size for a dwelling exceeding 10% (proposing 33 hectares instead of the required 200 hectares, representing an 83% variation), the concurrence of the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure was required at the time. This concurrence was not granted, as the Department advised that the designation of a “building envelope” does not constitute a form of development.

Whilst the lack of concurrence legally prevented Council from granting consent to the development, this was not the sole reason the application was not supported by Staff. Consequently, a report was tabled at the May 2024 Ordinary Meeting of Council recommending that the application be refused on the following ground:

1. The Development Application relates to development for which concurrence is required. Pursuant to Section 4.6(4)(b) of the Cootamundra Local Environmental Plan 2013, concurrence from the Planning Secretary has been denied for the proposed variation to development standards.

2. Pursuant to Section 4.15(1)(a)(i) of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, the application does not demonstrate how the proposed development supports the Aims of Plan under Section 1.2 (2)(a), (b), (c) & (e) of the Cootamundra Local Environmental Plan 2013.

3. 3Pursuant to Section 4.15(1)(a)(i) of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, the proposed development does not meet the objectives specified within the Cootamundra Local Environmental Plan 2013 which support the RU1 Primary Production zone.

4. The Development Application has failed to address how compliance with the development standard is unreasonable or unnecessary, and that there are sufficient environmental planning grounds to justify contravening the development standard in accordance with Section 4.6(3)(a) & (b) of the Cootamundra Local Environmental Plan 2013.

5. The information submitted with the Development Application does not provide satisfactory justification for Council (the consent authority) to support the significant variation to development standard pursuant to Section 4.6(4)(a)(i)(ii) and (b) of the Cootamundra Local Environmental Plan 2013.

6. Pursuant to Section 4.15(1)(b) of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, the application fails to demonstrate appropriate grounds and/or positive impact of the development on the natural and built environment, and social and economic impacts in the locality.

7. Based on the information provided and inconsistencies with certain sections of the Cootamundra Local Environmental Plan 2013, the proposal is not in the public interest, and therefore, inconsistent with Section 4.15(1)(c) and (e) of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979.

Council resolved at that Meeting (Resolution 122/2024) the following:

“Council defers the assessment given; the building envelope is not a development and cannot be granted consent. However, Council remains open to a submission around clause 4.6 of the LEP section (2) and (3), and section 4.6 (3).

Being:

(a) compliance with the development standard is unreasonable or unnecessary in the circumstances, and

(b) there are sufficient environmental planning grounds to justify the contravention of the development standard.”

The development application was subsequently withdrawn, and a new development application was lodged in February 2025 (DA2025/013), which is subject to this application. The current application differs from the previous application, in that the proposal is now for a subdivision and the erection of a dwelling, as opposed to establishing a “dwelling building envelope”.

It should also be noted that changes to the legislation means that the concurrence of the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure is no longer required under Clause 4.6 of the LEP, to vary a development standard.

Discussion

The proposed subdivision meets the required standards under the LEP, as it would not result in a dwelling entitlement for the proposed 33.4 ha lot (it is essentially a rural boundary adjustment of existing agricultural land). However, the component of the development, which seeks to obtain consent to erect a dwelling on this 33.4 ha lot, does not meet the 200-ha minimum lot size under the Cootamundra LEP 2013. Therefore, an application has also been made, to vary the 200-ha minimum lot development standard by 83.3%, utilising clause 4.6 of the LEP.

The provisions of clause 4.6 are quite clear, that development consent must not be granted to development that contravenes a development standard unless the consent authority is satisfied the applicant has demonstrated that—

(a) compliance with the development standard is unreasonable or unnecessary in the circumstances of the case, and

(b) there are sufficient environmental planning grounds to justify the contravention of the development standard.

As demonstrated in the attached DA assessment report, this is very a high bar that has been set and held to by the NSW Land and Environment Court.

The proposed clause 4.6 variation has been thoroughly considered within the attached DA assessment report, along with the other planning matters that must be statutorily considered as part of the assessment. Following is a summary of the clause 4.6 discussion from the DA assessment report (pages 34 – 46), noting the report should be read in its entirety and Council’s decision should not be based solely on this summary.

Applicant’s Justification

The applicant has provided the following key arguments in support of the proposed variation:

§ The new dwelling is required for succession planning and the transfer of land to the next generation of the farming family.

§ The site of the proposed dwelling is on less productive land, and its development will not impact viable agricultural land.

§ The 33.4 ha lot is already undersized, so the proposal does not result in new fragmentation.

§ Locating the dwelling adjacent to areas of native vegetation allows for active management, weed control, and conservation efforts.

§ The lot is a historic parish lot that was originally intended for separate ownership and a dwelling.

§ The 200-ha minimum lot size is argued to be outdated and not reflective of modern agricultural practices, including niche farming and the changing demographics of rural landowners.

§ The proposal is positioned as environmentally responsible and consistent with broader land stewardship principles.

Council’s Position

Council does not support the application and considers that the proposed development does not meet the requirements of Clause 4.6 or the strategic intent of the LEP. The following points outline Council’s reasons for opposition:

1. Non-compliance with minimum lot size standard

§ The proposal seeks to erect a dwelling on a 33.4 ha lot, which is substantially below the 200-ha minimum required under the LEP (83,3% variation).

§ The variation is not supported by sufficient planning grounds and fails to demonstrate that strict compliance is unreasonable or unnecessary in the circumstances.

2. Fragmentation of rural land

§ Allowing a new dwelling on an undersized lot would formalise the fragmentation of the broader rural landholding.

§ The creation of a dwelling entitlement on Lot 2 increases the likelihood that it will:

- be sold or used separately in the future,

- become a lifestyle lot, rather than contribute to agricultural productivity,

- encourage further similar applications, undermining strategic rural planning controls.

§ The proposal is inconsistent with the zone objective “to minimise the fragmentation and alienation of resource lands”.

3. Succession planning is not a valid planning justification

§ Succession planning is an operational and personal matter, not a land use justification under environmental planning principles.

§ Planning controls must be applied consistently, and decisions cannot be based on personal or familial arrangements.

§ Accepting succession as justification would set a precedent for ad hoc rural residential development on other undersized lots.

§ There are more appropriate planning pathways available to accommodate a second dwelling, including:

- rural workers dwellings,

- secondary dwellings,

- dual occupancy,

- lot consolidation to meet the 200-ha minimum.

4. Insufficient environmental planning grounds

§ The applicant has failed to demonstrate that there are sufficient environmental planning grounds to justify the variation.

§ Claims regarding biodiversity protection and weed control do not explain why a dwelling is necessary to achieve these outcomes.

§ Historical aerial imagery indicates that conservation has occurred without on-site residence, and farming has continued around the vegetation.

§ General claims that the land may support future niche agricultural activities (such as horticulture, agritourism, or specialty cropping) are speculative and unsupported by any detail or planning documentation.

§ No business plan, land capability assessment, or operational strategy has been provided to demonstrate how the land will be used productively or sustainably in support of those claims, or and how these uses would rely on the presence of a dwelling on the specific allotment, or why the current dwelling would not support these uses.

§ Strategic planning decisions must be based on evidence of land use outcomes, not on unverified future possibilities.

5. Inconsistency with the RU1 zone objectives

§ The proposal is inconsistent with several key RU1 Primary Production zone objectives:

- does not maintain or enhance the natural resource base – the introduction of a dwelling reduces productive land and increases risk to native vegetation,

- does not support sustainable primary industry production – the loss of consolidated land reduces long-term agricultural viability,

- introduces built form within proximity to native vegetation, contrary to best practice guidelines for biodiversity protection.

6. Dwelling not required to support agricultural activities

§ The existing dwelling on Lot 291, held under the same ownership and located only 250 metres from the vegetation, provides adequate opportunity for on-site management.

§ No compelling operational need has been demonstrated for a second, separate dwelling on the 33.4 ha lot.

7. Strategic planning context remains valid

§ Arguments that the 200-ha minimum is outdated are not relevant to a clause 4.6 variation, which must assess the proposal against the current LEP.

§ Any reconsideration of the lot size standard is a matter for strategic planning review, not a site-specific development application.

§ The application does not demonstrate how a dwelling on a 33.4 ha lot meets the objectives of the development standard, which is to minimise unplanned rural residential development.

8. Risk of cumulative impact

§ While the applicant claims few similar applications have been received, the low uptake may reflect lack of awareness or the complexity of clause 4.6.

§ Approval of this application may invite similar proposals, progressively weakening the planning framework and leading to:

- increased rural fragmentation,

- loss of agricultural land, and

- a shift in rural land function and character.

Assessment Conclusion

In conclusion, Staff are not satisfied that the applicant has demonstrated that strict compliance with the development standard, is unreasonable or unnecessary, or that there are sufficient environmental planning grounds to justify the proposed variation.

Accordingly, this application is inconsistent with the objectives of the LEP, the RU1 zone, and clause 4.6, and poses a risk to the long-term sustainability of the rural landscape, agricultural productivity, and environmental values. The development is therefore not supported, and refusal is recommended.

Should however, Councillors consider that the development application warrants approval having regard to the matters under clause 4.6, the following actions are required:

1. Reasons for approving the variation

Section 90A of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Regulation 2021 requires Council to notify the Planning Secretary of the Council’s reasons for approving a contravention of a development standard. Therefore, reasons for approval would need form part of the Council resolution, and should clearly demonstrate how/why Council is “satisfied” the applicant has demonstrated that—

(a) compliance with the development standard is unreasonable or unnecessary in the circumstances, and

(b) there are sufficient environmental planning grounds to justify the contravention of the development standard.

2. Conditions of consent

Specific conditions of consent are required and must be imposed as part of the Council resolution, and not delegated to the General Manager or Staff to impose, as part of a resolution to approve the proposed development. This is supported by the NSW Land and Environment Court, which states that “No issue is raised about the ability of the Council to delegate the approval function in s 4.16 of the EPA Act provided it is delegated as a whole, not in part, consistent with the principle of indivisibility of function.”

Financial

Nil

OLG 23a Guideline consideration

Nil

Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

24 June 2025

8.4.2 DA2025/022 - Proposed subdivision identification sign - Corner Boundary Road and Oliver Selwyn Drive, Cootamundra

DOCUMENT NUMBER

439949

REPORTING OFFICER

Laura Schweiger, Town Planner

AUTHORISING OFFICER

Roger Bailey, Interim General Manager

RELEVANCE TO COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN

2. A region for the future

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

3. Protected and enhanced environment

3.2 We have attractive towns and villages

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

If Council consents to the proposed sign, accepts ownership and responsibility for the sign, all costs associated with the maintenance of the sign would be borne by Council.

LEGISLATIVE IMPLICATIONS

There are no Legislative implications associated with this report.

POLICY IMPLICATIONS

There are no Policy implications associated with this report.

ATTACHMENTS

1. DA assessment report ⇩

Recommendation

That council formally decline to grant owner’s consent and decline to accept the estate sign structure.

Introduction

The purpose of this report is to seek Council’s direction on whether to permit the installation of a subdivision identification sign on Council’s Road reserve, at the corner of Boundary Road and Oliver Selwyn Drive, Cootamundra, for the residential subdivision Shannonvale Estate.

Discussion

A development application has been submitted for the installation of a large rock feature sign displaying the name of the Boundary Road subdivision, “Shannonvale Estate.” The proposed sign is intended to function as a formal entry statement for the Estate and is proposed to be installed on Council’s Road reserve at the entrance to the estate, being the corner of Boundary Road and Oliver Selwyn Drive.

Following, is an image of the proposed sign, location map, and additional sign details included in the attached development application and assessment report.

Figure 1: Image of proposed sign

Figure 2: Neighbourhood aerial – sign location indciated by red pin (Source: Google Earth – imagery date 2.11.2023)

The DA assessment report (attached) has recommended approval from a planning, engineering, and road safety perspective, subject to conditions, and if Council consents to the use of the land, it would be approved under delegated authority, in accordance with the attached report. If Council does not agree to the use of Council land, the development application would be refused under delegated authority, as the consent of the landowner has not been provided.

The proposal now requires separate consideration by Council regarding the use of Council land for this private subdivision identification sign.

Developer’s position

The Developer (Mr Tony Taylor), has provided the following comments in support of installation of the sign:

§ the natural granite stone colours chosen are in keeping with the surrounding landscape and not dissimilar to the street bollards in Parker Street,

§ the proposed site was viewed by Councillors Gill Kelly and Trevor Glover to address any concerns Council may have regarding safety, sight lines, encroachment within the clear zone and location of existing service easements,

§ the structure is a beautiful robust granite structure which will require minimal maintenance other than a whipper snip around the base during footpath maintenance,

§ with the structure being very robust giving excellent longevity in a somewhat harsh environment, we feel alternative management would not be required with only minimal grass maintenance provided by Council,

§ we acknowledge that acts of vandalism/ graffiti may take place, however we feel that this is a minor issue and should not prevent or deter the application,

§ there are no requirements to maintain lettering, and with the face of the stone being polished it tends to lessen any chance of paint or chemical adhering to it,

§ justification for the location of the entry sign is to position the sign so that it does not get lost in the surrounding infrastructure, being easily visible to passersby or persons looking for the new subdivision,

§ corner blocks are usually the last blocks to be sold, so to cut a section of the land off an already ill shaped block (Council Note: to erect the sign on private land) would inhibit any chance of a future sale and restrict how that land may be built on, which would be detrimental to the designed outcome for the entrance,

§ there is no lighting or power to the sign, and the streetlight situated on the intersection of Oliver Selwyn Drive and Verner Street is casting enough light to be able to see the sign’s presence,

§ our intention is to gift the completed structure to Council and the Cootamundra community to enhance a very popular thoroughfare for people walking, riding and running,

§ we have no desire to enter a lease or purchase arrangement with Council, citing legal obligations and on-going costs being of no benefit to either party

§ we believe the best outcome for the community would be for Council to assume responsibility for the signage, with Shannon Vale Investments to maintain public liability insurance on the structure.

Key considerations for Council

The key considerations for Council in determining whether it is appropriate or not for the proposed sign to be erected on Council land, are as follows:

Public vs Private Benefit

§ the sign primarily serves a private/commercial purpose, to promote and brand the Shannonvale Estate,

§ there is some limited broader public benefit, such as improved wayfinding and a sense of place, but the direct utility to the public may be minimal.

Use of Public Land for Private Infrastructure

§ the sign would occupy Council land, which is public space,

§ Councillors must consider whether such use is appropriate, and whether it aligns with the broader policy on use of public land by private interests.

Precedent

§ approval may establish a precedent for future requests from other developers or estates,

§ Council may wish to consider each request separately on merit or develop a formal policy and guidelines to guide and manage such proposals.

Maintenance and Responsibility

§ Council must consider whether it is prepared to take on the financial responsibility for ongoing maintenance, repair, and eventual removal (if needed), or whether it should be allocated to the developer,

§ an agreement, license or lease with the developer, may be required to formalise these obligations, if Council is not prepared to assume responsibility for the sign once installed.

Liability and Insurance

§ Structures on public land may expose Council to liability in the event of damage, vandalism, or injury,

§ the developer has stated that Shannon Vale Investments would maintain public liability insurance on the structure,

§ if Council accepts the Developer’s offer to maintain public liability insurance on the sign, it should require evidence of the insurance and an indemnity agreement from the sign owner.

Visual and Environmental Impact

§ while the development application assessment has found no major concerns, Council may still consider the visual impact on the streetscape and expectations of residents regarding signage on public land.

Community Perception

§ some residents may perceive such signs on public land as inappropriate commercialisation of community space.

§ transparency and clear rationale for approval will be important to manage perception and avoid reputational risk.

Options for Council

Approve the Use of Council Land

Council may choose to approve the use of Council land for the installation of the sign, under either of the following circumstances:

1. Accept ownership of the sign once installed, and the subsequent financial responsibility, maintenance obligations, and liability for the sign.

2. Require the Developer to enter into a formal agreement with Council, covering some or all the following - maintenance responsibilities, insurance and indemnity provisions, requirement to remove the sign at Council’s discretion or upon expiry, etc.

Refuse the Use of Council Land

The Developer would need to find an alternative location for the sign on privately owned land within the estate.

If Council agrees to the use of the land for the sign, the development application will be approved.

Financial

If Council allows the use of the land or a sign, and accepts ownership and responsibility of the sign, Council would be liable for the following costs:

§ maintenance and repair costs (cleaning, repairing cracks, graffiti removal or damage from vandalism or weather),

§ public liability and risk management (Council may be liable for injury or property damage if the sign fails structurally, falls, or is hit by a vehicle),

§ future relocation or removal costs.

OLG 23a Guideline consideration

Does not conflict with Guideline.

Interim Manager Sustainable Development Comment

The above report has assessed the proposal to gift Council an estate entry structure to direct and welcome people to Shannonvale Estate.

The Interim General Manager, as is the practice, provided owners consent to enable this development application to be made and considered by Council.

The proposal would be installed at the corner of Boundary Road and Selwyn Drive Cootamundra. The above report appropriately details the applicant’s desire and reasons for making a generous gift to council, along with likely concerns council and the community may have if the proposed structure is accepted by council.

Such concerns include:

*The use of public land for private infrastructure,

*Such an acceptance may create an expectation and precedence for future subdivisions or use of public open space,

*The need for the maintenance, repair, removal and disposal cost in the longer term would become the responsibility of council.

*Along with the gifted structure would come the council responsibility to care, not only for the structure but the surrounds and ensure public safety and avoidance of damage and possible acts of graffiti to what would become a public asset. All of which would come at a cost and commitment by council and the community.

The council report correctly advises the decision is for council to make. However, after weighing the benefits, cost, implied and real and the likelihood of creating a precedent for other private monument or structures

I recommend on this occasion Council not grant owner’s consent and decline to accept the proposed gift and thank Mr Taylor for his generous offer of an estate structure to be placed on the public reserve fronting Boundary Road and Oliver Selwyn Drive Cootamundra.

Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

24 June 2025

8.4.3 DA2025/050 - Proposed dwelling house - 13 Oliver Selwyn Drive, Cootamundra

DOCUMENT NUMBER

439954

REPORTING OFFICER

Laura Schweiger, Town Planner

AUTHORISING OFFICER

Roger Bailey, Interim General Manager

RELEVANCE TO COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN

2. A region for the future

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

2.3 A region that can accommodate and support strategic growth

3. Protected and enhanced environment

3.2 We have attractive towns and villages

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

There are no financial implications associated with this report.

LEGISLATIVE IMPLICATIONS

There are no Legislative implications associated with this report.

POLICY IMPLICATIONS

The subject application (DA2025/050) proposes a variation to the primary (front) building line setback established in Council’s Development Control Plan. The variation is considered acceptable and in keeping with the performance outcomes, and would not establish an undesirable precedent, in the area.

ATTACHMENTS

1. Draft Notice of Determination ⇩

2. DA assessment report ⇩

Recommendation

1. That Council approve the proposed variation as detailed in the Council report.

2. That Council approve the following development application, subject to the consent conditions detailed in the draft Notice of Determination (Attachment 1):

§ DA number: DA2025/050

§ Property: Lot 58 DP 1305491

13 Oliver Selwyn Drive

COOTAMUNDRA NSW 2590

§ Development: Dwelling house – to erect a single storey, fibre cement clad, four (4) bedroom dwelling

Introduction

Development consent is being sought for the erection of a single-story dwelling house on Lot 58 DP 1305491, 13 Oliver Selwyn Drive, Cootamundra. Specific details of the proposed development (including site plans and elevations), and the subject land (location plans and aerial imagery), are provided in the attached DA assessment report (Attachment 2).

The proposed development complies with all but one (1) of the development standards in the Cootamundra DCP and seeks a variation to the primary (front) building line setback. As a result of this variation, the application is required to be determined by full Council, as opposed to being determined under delegated authority. This variation is discussed in the attached DA assessment report (Attachment 2), and replicated in the body of this Council report, as follows.

Discussion

A detailed assessment of the development with respect to all the relevant DCP provisions is contained in the attached DA assessment report (Attachment 2), which demonstrates that the majority of the acceptable solutions are met. The following discusses the variation proposed to the DCP:

Acceptable solution	Comment
2.1 Building line setbacks
Front Primary Building Line Setback Requirements
Minimum setback to be the average of the front setback of the nearest two neighbouring houses, with the same primary road frontage, within forty (40) metres If there are no dwellings within forty (40) metres, the minimum setback is 4.5 metres (lot size up to 900 m²).	Does not comply – the two (2) nearest dwellings are those immediately to the southeast of the site (15 and 17 Oliver Selwyn Drive), which are setback 7 metres and 6 metres respectively. This would therefore require a setback 6.5 metres, but a minimum setback of five (5) metres is proposed, which is a variation of 1.5 metres. The Applicant has sought to vary the average setback, providing the following justification: § there is an existing 2.5m easement situated at the back of the property, which has reduced the available usable backyard space, and the building envelope for sheds, § we have designed a dwelling that takes advantage of the natural assets available whilst also being considerate to the neighbouring properties. The L shape of the proposed dwelling allows for ample private backyard space whilst not intruding on the neighbour’s private space, § the current design takes advantage of the north aspect of the lot and enhances the usability liveability of the dwelling, § pushing the dwelling back to the average of the 2 nearest dwellings would negatively impact this property, § the variation will have no negative impact on the existing streetscape, § it is in keeping with the surrounding developments as the homes in this new subdivision range from 4.5 m up to 7 m setback, § the front of the dwelling will be landscaped with well-maintained lawns and gardens and can also include screening landscaping if necessary, § the garage of the proposed dwelling is nearest to the neighbouring property and is set back at 6 m so visually there won’t be a noticeable difference of only 1 m. The part of the building that is setback at 5 m is closest to the corner, § being a corner lot there is a substantial amount of council land surrounding the frontage of the block. This will also lessen the appearance of the dwelling being too close to the primary or secondary road. This will also ensure that pedestrians and other users of the area do not feel that the buildings are overbearing. It is considered that the justification offered by the Applicant in support of the proposed variation is adequate. The development, whilst not meeting the numerical standard in the acceptable solution, does satisfy the related performance criteria (underlined below), detailed as follows: Front setbacks are generally consistent with those of adjoining development It is considered that the front setbacks is generally consistent with those of adjoining development. The proposed dwelling has an articulated façade, where the setback varies between 5 metres and 6.3 metres, which is an average of 5.65 metres. Generally, dwellings in this subdivision, are setback on average 6 metres. The setback of a building is related to its height and also to the width of the street in which it is located, in such a way to ensure pedestrians and other users of the area do not feel buildings are overbearing Oliver Selwyn Drive is wider than most residential streets, with a width of 27 metres. The proposed single-storey dwelling is of a modest height and scale, which significantly reduces its potential to appear overbearing. The lot is located on a corner site, which increases the sense of spatial separation of the dwelling. This increased open space avoids a sense of enclosure or visual dominance. Setbacks provide space for residents to feel an adequate sense of visual and acoustic privacy when using rooms fronting the street The number of habitable rooms at the front of the dwelling have been minimised, with the main living area and the majority of the bedrooms located at the rear of the dwelling. Furthermore, the reduced front setback has maximised and enhanced the available amount of private open space at the rear of the dwelling, and its connectivity between the outdoor area and the internal living areas. The scale and appearance of new development is compatible and sympathetic to existing development in the locality. (particularly where the site has some heritage significance or distinctive character) The proposal reflects the contemporary character of the relatively new subdivision, where setbacks and built forms vary. The proposed scale building materials are consistent with the area, and the dwelling is compatible in both scale and appearance, maintaining consistency with the evolving neighbourhood character. Overall, the variation is considered acceptable, with minimal impact expected on the streetscape character, residential amenity, and built form. The presence of a rear easement, the corner lot context, and the variation in setbacks in the surrounding area further support the acceptability of the proposed front setback.

Council has considered all matters under the relevant legislation, and it considers that the proposed development is appropriate having regard to those matters, and that any impacts can be managed through appropriate conditions. The issues relating to the proposed variations have been discussed at length, above, and are considered acceptable.

Financial

Nil impact.

OLG 23a Guideline consideration

Nil conflict.

Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

24 June 2025

8.4.4 DA2025/052 - Demolition, Tree Removal, Dual Occupancy and Subdivision - 39 Centenary Avenue, Cootamundra

DOCUMENT NUMBER

440121

REPORTING OFFICER

Laura Schweiger, Town Planner

AUTHORISING OFFICER

Roger Bailey, Interim General Manager

RELEVANCE TO COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN

2. A region for the future

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

2.3 A region that can accommodate and support strategic growth

3. Protected and enhanced environment

3.2 We have attractive towns and villages

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

There are no financial implications associated with this report.

LEGISLATIVE IMPLICATIONS

There are no Legislative implications associated with this report.

POLICY IMPLICATIONS

The subject application (DA2025/052) proposes a variation to the primary (front) building line setback established in Council’s Development Control Plan. The variation is considered acceptable and in keeping with the performance outcomes, and would not establish an undesirable precedent, in the area.

ATTACHMENTS

1. Draft Notice of Determination ⇩

2. DA assessment report ⇩

Recommendation

1. That Council approve the proposed variation as detailed in the Council report.

2. That Council approve the following development application, subject to consent conditions detailed in the draft Notice of Determination (Attachment 1):

DA number: DA2025/052

Property: Lot B DP 319714

39 Centenary Avenue

COOTAMUNDRA NSW 2590

Development: Demolition, tree removal, dual occupancy (detached) and subdivision – to demolish the existing metal shed and tree, to erect a single storey, brick veneer, four (4) bedroom dwelling on the western part of the property, and to subdivide the land into two (2) lots of approximately 656 m² and 647 m².

Introduction

Development consent is being sought for the erection of second single-story dwelling house, to create a detached dual occupancy, on Lot B DP 319714, 39 Centenary Avenue, Cootamundra, and for the subdivision of the land into two (2) lots. It would also include ancillary works for demolition and tree removal. Specific details of the proposed development (including site plans and elevations), and the subject land (location plans and aerial imagery), are provided in the attached DA assessment report (Attachment 2).

The proposed development complies with all but one (1) of the development standards in the Cootamundra DCP and seeks a variation to the primary (front) building line setback. As a result of this proposed variation, the application must be determined by full Council, as opposed to being determined under delegated authority. This variation is discussed in the attached DA assessment report (Attachment 2), and replicated in the body of this Council report, as follows.

Discussion

A detailed assessment of the development with respect to all relevant DCP provisions is contained in the attached DA assessment report (Attachment 2), which demonstrates that the majority of the acceptable solutions being met. The following discusses the variation proposed to the DCP.

Acceptable solution	Comment
2.1 Building line setbacks
Front Primary Building Line Setback Requirements
Minimum setback to be the average of the front setback of the nearest two neighbouring houses, with the same primary road frontage, within forty (40) metres If there are no dwellings within forty (40) metres, the minimum setback is 4.5 metres (lot size up to 900 m²).	Does not comply – the two (2) nearest dwellings are the existing dwelling onsite to the southeast, and a dwelling across the laneway to the northwest. These dwellings are setback 5.85 metres and 7 metres respectively. This would therefore require a setback 6.4 metres, but a minimum setback of 4.5 metres is proposed, which would be a variation of 1.9 metres. The Applicant has sought to vary the average setback, providing the following justification: § the setback as proposed maximises the amenity to the rear yard of the proposed dwelling in terms of solar access, acoustic and visual privacy and optimising utility of the private open space area, § the rear setback as proposed is currently 4.4 metres and any increase to the front setback will reduce the rear setback. We consider that a useable rear yard is very desirable in this instance and aligns with the ‘family’ scaled character of the proposed dwelling, § we contend that neighbourhood amenity is optimised to the rear neighbours, by maximising (rear setback) separation distances, § the proposed dwelling is characterised by an articulated front elevation (which is also reflected in the roof form), and the front setback to each front wall include 4.5m, 7m and 5.5m to the garage, § the street elevation was specifically selected to maximise its streetscape appeal and includes a covered and defined entry porch with matching proportioned front windows. We further note that the 4.5m setback applies to approximately a quarter of the entire font elevation (4 metres of 14.6 metres, being 27% of the dwellings entire front elevation), § Cooper Lane provides physical separation between the site of the proposed dwelling and the dwelling on 31 Cowcumbla Street, and we contend that is sufficient to negate any adverse streetscape impact, § in addition, the proposed dwelling is sited 8.255 metres from the side boundary to Cooper Lane, which provides further visual and physical separation, § the dwelling (22 Cowcumbla Street) directly opposite the subject site, has an existing front setback of approximately 4 metres and the adjacent dwellings to this site support front building setbacks of approximately 5 metres, § we contend that this precinct of Cowcumbla Street is characterised by a diverse range of building setbacks, front fencing styles and landscaping, reflecting a varied character of residential forms, styles and dwelling vintages, and contributes to a diverse and interesting ‘country town’ streetscape, § Cowcumbla Street is characterised by a wide road pavement (approx. 19m kerb to kerb) and generous footpath edges which provide the opportunity for street tree planting, § landscaping and supplementary street tree planting will contribute to ‘softer’ street edges, and we are receptive to consent conditions in this regard, § we also consider that the configuration of the proposed dwelling on its proposed future lot provides future occupants opportunities for use of the rear yard including personal recreation and amenity improvements, including a garden shed and the like. It is considered that the justification offered by the Applicant in support of the proposed variation is adequate. The development, whilst not meeting the numerical standard for an acceptable solution, it does satisfy the related performance criteria (underlined below), detailed as follows: Front setbacks are generally consistent with those of adjoining development The Applicant has identified that the proposed dwelling has an articulated façade, with setbacks of 4.5 metres, 5.5 metres and 7 metres, which equates to an average setback of 5.66 metres. It is considered that the front setback is generally consistent with other dwellings in the wider area, including: § the existing dwelling on the site, which has a secondary setback to Cowcumbla Street of 5.85 metres, § the dwellings on the opposite side of Cowcumbla Street, have the following setbacks: - 20 Cowcumbla Street – 5.5 metres to Cowcumbla Street, and a secondary setback to Centenary Avenue of 1 metre, - 22 Cowcumbla Street – 4.5 metres to Cowcumbla Street, - 24 and 26 Cowcumbla Street – both which have a 5.5 metre setback to Cowcumbla Street, and both with a small portico which has a setback 3.5 metres to Cowcumbla Street, § the dwelling on the corner of Cowcumbla Street and Parker Street (30 metres to the northwest), which has a secondary setback to Cowcumbla Street of 3 metres. The setback of a building is related to its height and also to the width of the street in which it is located, in such a way to ensure pedestrians and other users of the area do not feel these buildings are overbearing Cowcumbla Street Road reserve is 30 metres, with a pavement width of the 19 metres, a footpath width of 5 metres adjacent the subject land, and a 6-metre-wide footpath area on the opposite side of the road. The proposed one-storey residence is modest in both height and overall size, which limits its visual impact and prevents it from appearing imposing. Being positioned on a corner block, with a laneway to the west, further enhances the physical separation from neighbouring properties, contributing to a more spacious setting. This openness helps avoid any sense of crowding or overwhelming presence. Setbacks provide space for residents to feel an adequate sense of visual and acoustic privacy when using rooms fronting the street The main living area (kitchen, meal area, and family room) and most of the bedrooms (Bedrooms 2, 3 and 4) have been located at the rear of the dwelling, with only one bedroom and a lounge room located at the front of the dwelling. It is considered that the reduced setback would not have an adverse impact on the use of these rooms, in terms of visual and acoustic privacy, particularly given the width of the road and the adjacent footpath. The scale and appearance of new development is compatible and sympathetic to existing development in the locality (particularly where the site has some heritage significance or distinctive character) The proposed dwelling is compatible in both scale and appearance, with the existing character of the neighbourhood. The existing dwellings in the area are single storey and constructed from a variety of materials, including weatherboard, face brickwork and rendered brick work, with a combination of metal and tiled roofs. The proposed dwelling is face brickwork, with a metal roof. In summary, although the proposed development does not meet the numerical front setback standard, it is considered to appropriately satisfy the relevant performance criteria. The varied and articulated façade aligns with the character of nearby dwellings, while the wide street and corner location mitigate any potential visual impact. The design ensures adequate privacy for street-facing rooms and maintains compatibility with the scale and appearance of surrounding development. Accordingly, the justification provided for the variation is considered reasonable and well-supported.

Council has considered all matters under the relevant legislation, and is of the view that the proposed development is appropriate having regard to those matters, and that any impact can be managed through appropriate conditions. The issues relating to the proposed variations have been discussed at length, above, and are considered acceptable.

Financial

Nil impact.

OLG 23a Guideline consideration

Nil conflict.

Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

24 June 2025

8.4.5 Joint Regional Planning Panel Representatives

DOCUMENT NUMBER

440280

REPORTING OFFICER

Lauren Dawes, Senior Building Surveyor

AUTHORISING OFFICER

Roger Bailey, Interim General Manager

RELEVANCE TO COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN

4. Collaborative and progressive leadership

4.3 Actively engaged and supportive community

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. Note the three (3) candidates who have expressed interest in being nominated as Council’s representatives on the Regional Planning Panel for the Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council area;

2. Give due consideration to the qualifications, experience, and suitability of the candidates for the role of council members on the panel;

3. Resolve to nominate two candidates as permanent members to the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure as Council’s members on the Regional Planning Panel for the maximum term of 3 years and give consideration to the nomination of a third as an alternate member for that period;

4. Resolve to pay the community members for attendance and representation at regional planning panel meetings including site inspections at the rate of $1400 per day for attending meetings and site inspections, plus reasonable travel and out of pocket expenses, noting that he daily rate is intended to compensate for the time required to prepare for, attend and respond to meeting outcomes, upon receipt of invoice from the panel member.

Introduction

Sydney and Regional Planning Panels are independent bodies representing the Crown and are not subject to the direction of the Minister, except on matters relating to Planning Panel procedures or where the Minister issues a formal direction under the EP&A Act.

Planning Panels are constituted for each region of the State, Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council is located in the area of the Southern Regional Planning Panel.

Sydney and Regional Planning Panel’s determine regional development, as outlined in Schedule 6 of the State Environmental Planning Policy (Planning Systems) 2021, being;

· General development with an estimated development cost of over $30 million;

· Council related with an estimated development cost of over $5 million;

· Crown development an estimated development cost of over $5 million;

· Private infrastructure and community facilities over $5 million;

· Eco-tourist facilities over $5 million;

· Particular designated developments including extractive industries, marinas and waste management facilities;

· Certain coastal subdivisions;

· Development with a capital investment value between $10 million and $30 million which is referred to the Planning Panel by the applicant after 120 days;

· Development council areas where development assessment unsatisfactory as designated by the Minister.

While the principal functions of Planning Panels are to determine regionally significant DAs and undertake rezoning reviews of planning proposals other functions of Planning Panels include:

· Determining Crown DAs;

· Determining modification applications for regionally significant development;

· Determining DA reviews;

· Determining Site Capability Certificates (SCCs);

· Undertaking independent reviews for specific Local Aboriginal Land Council lands;

· Advising the Minister or the Secretary upon request; and

· Preparing planning proposals if they are directed to be a planning proposal authority.

Regional Planning Panels consist of three permanent Minister appointed members (state members), each council also has two appointed members (council members) who are called upon for matters relevant to the LGA and alternate members who can be called upon should a permanent member have a conflict or be otherwise unable to serve on the panel for a matter. The purpose of this report is to nominate two council members for appointment and any alternates as well as to establish the rate of remuneration of panel members.

Discussion

Council members should have good local knowledge of the community and the issues that are important in the wider community context. The guidelines for panel members contain qualifications that at least one of the Council appointed members must have, being in the areas of either planning, architecture, heritage, the environment, urban design, land economics, traffic and transport, law, engineering, or tourism.

Appointments to the panel may be councillors, staff or members of the community. However, there is heightened risk that of conflicts of interest arising for councillors or staff, particularly planning staff, due to their prior involvement in development matters or related responsibilities. Situations may involve prior voting on a development or matter or applications which are Council led or owned. As a result alternate members may need to be called upon more frequently.

Local appointments are for a maximum period of 3 years. The period for Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council’s previous appointments has ended and new appointments are required. Previous appointments were Mr Tony Donoghue and Mr Gordon Lindley, Mr Mark Elis was appointed as an alternate.

Section 4.5 of the Sydney District & Regional Planning Panel Operational Procedures (November 2022) states that ‘Councils are not restricted to nominating people from the council’s local area. They can appoint, terminate, and reappoint members at any time, and can determine the duration of each appointment. Generally, so as to ensure the greatest degree of continuity for the Panels, councils should consider appointing members for the maximum term of 3 years. However, councils should reconsider if the nominations to the Panels are appropriate within 12 months following a council election.’

The following candidates have expressed interest in being nominated for the new term: -

· Mr Michael Mason;

· Mr Tony Donoghue; and

· Mr Gary Arthur.

Mr Michael Mason

Mr Michael Mason has worked as Interim Manager of Sustainable Development at Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council on a contract basis from August 2023 and will be finishing in July 2025. Mr Mason holds necessary qualification to be nominated as Council’s expert member. Mr Mason has previously served as a regional planning panel member on behalf of Strathfield Council and local planning panel member for Parramatta City Council, Lane Cove and Strathfield Councils. Experience and qualifications relevant are:

· Executive Manager Environmental Services Department, Lane Cove Council (2003-2021)

· Executive Manager Environmental Standards Department, Fairfield City Council (1998-2003)

· Assistant General Manager Environmental Planning & Development, Concord Council (1994-1998)

· Principal Planning and Building Policy Officer, Local Government & Shires Association of NSW (191-1994)

· Bachelor of Environmental Science (Planning), Charles Sturt University

· Short Law (Planning) Course (NSW)

· Associate Diploma of Town and Country Planning

Mr Tony Donoghue

Mr Tony Donoghue is independent from our Council, and the current General Manager from Coolamon Shire Council. He holds necessary qualification to be nominated as Council’s expert member and has served that capacity since circa. 2014. He is willing to continue in that capacity. Experience and qualifications relevant are:

· Current General Manager, Coolamon Shire Council

· Executive Manager Planning and Environmental Services, Coolamon Shire Council

· Senior Planning Officer, Parkes Shire Council

· Health & Build Surveyor North Sydney Council

· Masters in Planning, University of Technology Sydney

· Bachelor of Applied Science (Environmental Health) University of Western Sydney

Mr Gary Arthur

Mr Gary Arthur has formally worked for Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council on a permanent and contract basis as Manger Engineering (Cootamundra) and Director of Engineering for the former Cootamundra Shire Council. He holds necessary qualification to be nominated as Council’s expert member. Mr Arthur is a resident of the Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council. Experience and qualifications relevant are:

· Director Engineering Services, Cootamundra Shire Council (2006-2016)

· Self employed grazier located in Cootamundra area

· Director of Works Services and Planning, Bland Shire Council (1992-2004)

· Graduate Diploma of Technology Management

· Bachelor of Engineering (Civil Engineering)

· Development of Environmental Impact Assessment Statements and Environmental Management Plans training

Payment of Panel Members

Section 4.6 of the Sydney District & Regional Planning Panel Operational Procedures (November 2022) states that “Payment of council members Councils determine the fees they pay their Panel members. The Minister has provided guidance to all councils on appropriate rates of remuneration for travel and subsistence allowances for their members. Each council is responsible for making any payments to its Panel members when they attend Panel meetings.”

No previous resolution of Council relating to payment of panel members has been identified.

Guidance on rates of remuneration provided to council’s by the Minister in 2009 was as follows:-

On the establishment of the Joint Regional Planning Panels in July 2009, the then Minister for Planning, Kristina Keneally, wrote to all councils in relation to, amongst other things, remuneration for council nominated members to the panels. The advice, which is still current, stated that while the Minister decided not to set the fees for Council nominated members, so that Councils were free to determine the fees paid to their appointed members, the following should be considered when setting fees:

· Council staff members: No fees should be paid, as participation in the Regional Panel would form part of the employee’s regular duties, consistent with the Department of Premier and Cabinet Guidelines for NSW Board and Committee Members: Appointment and Remuneration (‘the DPC Guidelines’) on payment to Public Sector Employees.

· Elected councillors: As councillors already receive an annual fee set by the Local Government Remuneration Tribunal each year for performing their councillor duties, an additional per meeting fee of no more than $600 appears reasonable, recognising that membership of the Regional Panel will bring additional responsibilities.

· Community members: Each council may determine an appropriate level of remuneration for that person, by arrangement with that member, but that a meeting fee not exceeding $1400 should be considered as a guide when determining appropriate remuneration rates. This is commensurate with the fee proposed for State appointed members.

· Alternates: Alternate members, when serving on the Regional Panel, should receive fees commensurate to those paid to comparable council-appointed members.

Councils are also advised to refer to the DPC Guidelines when calculating travel and subsistence allowances for their nominees.

It is recommended that the following payments be adopted at the maximum rates outlined by the Minister:

· $600 per day for councillors attending meetings or site inspections; and

· $1,400 per day for community members attending meetings or site inspections

In addition, travel expenses should be reimbursed in accordance with the Department of Premier and Cabinet Guidelines. The proposed daily rate is intended to compensate for the time required to prepare for, attend, and respond to meeting outcomes.

Adoption of the maximum rate is recommended, noting that the Ministerial advice establishing these rates was issued in 2009 and has not been revised since.

Financial

Payment of panel members is unlikely to have a significant financial impact on Council’s budget and operations. Extent of expenditure will vary depending on the number of regionally significant applications or matters received and the complexity of such matters.

OLG 23a Guideline consideration

Does not conflict with guidelines.

Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

24 June 2025

8.5 Engineering Cootamundra

8.5.1 Cootamundra Engineering Report - June 2025

DOCUMENT NUMBER

439947

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 June 2025 be noted.

Introduction

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

Discussion

Fixing Local Roads Program – Round 4

The placement of an asphalt wearing course along Hovell Street works was completed on 6 June 2025, several weeks earlier than planned. The 600 metre section of work between Campbell and Cowcumbla Streets formed Stage 2 and 3 of the project and involved the excavation of existing subgrade and construction of a 470mm deep granular pavement incorporating a 40mm thick asphalt wearing surface over a distance of 600 metres.

As part of the project, kerb and gutter on both sides of Hovell St was replaced and existing public utilities crossing the road lowered and replaced where necessary. The project involves careful planning and timing to ensure minimal disruption to through traffic as well as access into and out of properties including businesses such as Mitre 10 and Steven Bus Service. Material used on the project included 400 tonnes (8,500m2) of asphalt, 10,000 tonnes (4,250m2) of road based and 1,110m of kerb and gutter.

Before After

Local Roads & Community Infrastructure Grant

Ursula Street/Southee Circle Kerb Replacement – The contractor is continuing the kerb replacement, maintaining residential access with temporary crossings, as required.

Cooper Street Footpath – Council’s Concrete crew are completing the last 30m of footpath renewal and associated 10m kerb between the Police Station and the Post Office.

State Roads RMCC

Council staff and sub-contractors have carried out the following works on State roads under contract with TfNSW. The contract is called a Road Maintenance Council Contract (RMCC).

Burley Griffin Way – Line marking completed on the last heavy patch areas at Lewins Lane west of Stockinbingal. Raised Pavement Markers and ATLM (rumble strips) to be installed by June 30.

Olympic Highway – Wallendbeen asphalt works (adjacent to service station) commenced on 11 June from 7.00pm to 5.00am and be completed by 5.00am Saturday 14th June weather permitting.

Olympic Highway – Table drain cleaning now complete just north of Cootamundra. Approximately 5 km of table drain cleaned and 2700m of shoulder rehabbed and sealed.

RMCC crews have undertaken minor pavement repairs and weed spraying. Slashing of roadsides is being carried out, weather permitting.

General Works

Gravel patching and maintenance grading has been carried out on Brawlin Springs Road, Back Brawlin Road, North Jindalee Road, Morrisons Hill Road and Allbutts Lane.

Jet patching has been carried out on Stockinbingal Road, Muttama Road and various locations throughout the municipality.

Council’s crews have undertaken sign replacements, slashing at the Aerodrome and verge restorations in the Cootamundra township.

Water and Sewer

Tenders for the Betts Street Sewerage Pumping Station (SPS) Rising Main Replacement have closed and a confidential report to Council recommending acceptance of a tender is being presented to the June Council Meeting.

Flood Studies

Floodplain Management Program – project commencement meetings have been held with consultants to commence work on two packages of work as recommended in the Cootamundra Floodplain Risk Management Study & Plan:

o Cootamundra Turf Club Detention Basin and McGowan Street Levee Feasibility Study

o Cootamundra Flood Warning System review.

A community meeting is planned to be held in August 2025 as part of the consultation phase to develop the Flood Warning System for Cootamundra. Further information will be provided.

Inland Rail Project - Illabo to Stockinbingal

Council staff continue to provide design and risk assessment review for various work packages being prepared by John Holland. Meetings (up to 3 hours) have been held to review draft documentation for level crossings, road works, bridges, flood management and geotechnical studies:

o D7 Geotechnical and Hydrogeological Interpretative Report

o L9 Geotechnical Factual Report

o D8 Geotechnical Monitoring

o D9 Flood Assessment

o E3 Level Crossings

o E7 Drainage

o E9 Bridges – Old Cootamundra Road Underpass

o L1 Stock Underpasses and Miscellaneous Structures

o H9 Dudauman Creek Underbridge – Design

o M2 Roads - Public

o CTTAMP Construction Traffic, Transport and Access Management Plan

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

24 June 2025

8.7 Regional Services Gundagai

8.7.1 Gundagai Regional Services Report - June 2025

DOCUMENT NUMBER

440191

REPORTING OFFICER

Donna Britton, Operations Support Officer - Facilities

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 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.

Regional Services - Parks, Reserves, Sporting Fields, Playgrounds & Projects - Achievements for the month include:

· Completion of Fire Mitigation and associated reporting.

· New fencing at Heydon Park.

· Crepe Myrtles in the main street have been trimmed ready for spring.

· Sporting fields have been marked for upcoming games and athletic carnivals.

· Marking for markets.

· Staff completed Playground Inspection & Safety training, Confined Spaces and Sharps training.

· Relocation of trees for the turning of soil for the Richard Norden project.

· Saleyards lighting, irrigation maintenance works in readiness for the annual June weaner sale.

· The Local Land Service and Council joint works under the Refreshing Rivers Program commenced with the extraction and treatment of exotic vegetation from Morley’s Creek Northern Banks by the Brungle/Tumut Local Aboriginal Land Council under staff supervision. The vegetation and material extracted was collected and disposed of by Council staff.

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

· Four interments across the Gundagai Cemeteries.

· Four headstones, and five plaque installations and refurbishments.

· Staff completed Confined Spaces training for use and permit issue in this area.

· Councils Regulatory Officer attended the 60 Years Diamond CCANSW Then, Now and Forever Seminar in Sydney. The benefits gained in attending the conference are enormous. These presentations enable staff to keep up with changes to the Act and the Interment Industry Scheme (IIS), Governance, society and future forward practices in our cemeteries, preservation of our aging cemeteries, community engagement and the use of volunteers in this space. With notable speakers presenting - More than Dead Space: Exploring Recreational Use of Cemeteries and a Keynote address: ‘Project Cultivate’ and SMCT sustainability practices.

· Staff were very fortunate to be treated to a tour of the facilities at Macquarie Park Cemetery and Crematoria Metropolitan Memorial Parks and Invocare Northern Suburbs Crematorium.

Biosecurity

All targets for the current 24-25 Weed Action Plan (WAP) will be finalised by 30 June with only waterway inspections to be completed.

All targets for property inspections, HR Pathways and Targets, Council Owned and Managed Lands, Provide landholders with education, training & technical advice & support on weed management (Extension) have been completed.

Biosecurity – WAP Activity for May 2025

Goal 2 – Eradicate or Contain: 68 Inspections

Goal 3 – Effectively Manage: 7 Inspections or reinspections

Gundagai Public & Council Facilities income:

Gundagai RV Park Income May 2025

· 01/05/25 – 31/05/25 - Total Income $507.65

Gundagai Transfer Station Key May 2025

· 01/05/25 – 31/05/25 - General Income $120.00

Gundagai Landfill/Transfer May 2025

· 01/05/25 – 31/05/25 - General Income $42,971.66 (This includes $39,158.59 income received for metal recycling through the Reroc joint tender process.)

Gundagai Standpipe Income May 2025

· Income from the Water Standpipe for the month of May.

Note* Figures are GST inclusive.

2024/2025		Avdata Payments /Council Income	Usage -Customers /Account Holders
		GST Incl.
2024	July	$ 2,436.40	9
2024	August	$ 1,419.79	9
2024	September	$ 1,250.29	10
2024	October	$ 1,808.12	12
2024	November	$ 2,951.04	16
2024	December	$ 2,010.09	12
2025	January	$ 1,092.14	14
2025	February	$ 1,800.73	16
2025	March	$ 2,072.03	12
2025	April	$ 1,989.69	16
2025	May	$ 16,905.68	16
2025	June

2024/2025	Totals	$ 35,736.00	142

Ø In the month of May there has been a noticeable increase in sales with 73% of total sales with the one customer. The customer is averaging 3 + loads per day and is the main reason for the increased usage and income of the standpipe.

Gundagai Saleyards Truck Wash May 2025

· Income from the Saleyards Truck wash for the month of May.

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	$ 3,073.22	33
2025	February	$ 3,421.08	31
2025	March	$ 2,755.69	32
2025	April	$ 3,773.47	35
2025	May	$ 3,364.90	35
2025	June

2024/2025	Totals	$ 33,113.55	356

Compliance:

Compliance with the Companion Animals Act 1998

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

Companion Animal: 2 Dogs have been taken into the pound. The owner was located with the dogs subsequently being microchipped and registered.

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

24 June 2025

8.8 Regional Services Cootamundra

8.8.1 Cootamundra Regional Services Report - June 2025

DOCUMENT NUMBER

439524

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 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 May 2025.

Discussion

Parks & Gardens

Parks and Gardens staff had a busy month focusing on tree requests in the streets of Cootamundra and villages. These tasks include line of sight pruning, under pruning for motorists and pedestrians, and tree removals. Tree maintenance will continue to be prioritised over the coming weeks prior to new tree plantings being carried out during the winter months.

Winter sports are now well underway, with staff maintaining local sporting fields in preparation for home team games. Works carried out during May include line marking, irrigation repairs and mowing. Local schools have held athletics carnivals at Albert Park which has seen staff line mark the track, tend to the long jump pit and provide event bins and clean amenities.

Cootamundra’s CBD has been refreshed with its winter annuals planting now completed. Garden beds were prepared prior to the arrival of new plant stock to ensure the gardens were restored with minimal down time. The effective planting of colourful annuals see many compliments received by staff from the public during planting and boosts the overall aesthetics in the main street. A rewarding job for all involved.

General maintenance throughout smaller parks has occurred throughout May, with workloads increased due to the clean-up of autumn leaf fall. Local playgrounds have been tended to by staff which has seen rotary hoeing and edging to the soft fall areas, and soft fall being topped up where required to adhere to the Australian Standards.

Saleyards / Truck Wash
Ongoing weed maintenance has been carried out to ensure the saleyards remain at a manageable and safe standard.

The truck wash recorded 130 transactions for the month, generating a total of $8,236.32 in usage.

Cemeteries
There were six burials conducted at the Cootamundra Lawn Cemetery in May. One plaque was affixed, and one removed for refurbishment.

Staff are considering changes to the traffic access point at the Cootamundra Cemetery. Investigations are underway to review the possibility of relocating the entry to the cemetery via Rinkin Street. If the relocation is deemed feasible the existing entry will be closed to improve traffic conditions for motorists travelling on the Olympic Highway. This will be incorporated into the Cemetery Master Plan that will commence in the new financial year.

Regulatory Services
Total Companion Animal registration fees collected for May totalled $2,312.00.

Ranger / Regulatory

No dog incidents were reported during the month of May. Multiple notices to register animals have been provided to owners as the Companion Animal Register audit continues. It is a requirement under the Companion Animals Act 1998 that cats and dogs be microchipped and registered. By registering pets, owners increase the likelihood of their animal being returned home safely in the event they become lost. Straying goats were reported in both Cootamundra and Bethungra, with all animals being returned to their owners.

In addition to responding to animal complaints, general patrols and maintenance of dog waste stations and off-leash areas and public education around designated off-leash areas continues. Assistance was provided to local Police and RSPCA in response to various issues involving animals. Investigations into dog attacks and compliance checks are also being undertaken.

Animal Statistics	Dogs	Cats
Seized	6	2
Released to Owner	1	1
Surrendered	0	0
Rehomed	4	6
Euthanised	1	1
Waiting for Rehoming	0	2

There were no infringement notices were issued in relation to companion animal offences.

One vehicle was impounded under the Public Space (Unattended Property) Act. Illegal dumping continues to be monitored, with patrols and control measures increased in areas where high activity has been recorded.

Facilities

Mirrors were attached to the ceiling at the Heritage Centre to reflect the inner workings of the new Quad Skull Boat exhibit. The visual story board on the television is now operational as part of the exhibit and highlights the career of Olympic medalist, Tim McLaren OAM.

The pigeon culling program for the Cootamundra CBD is continuing with a total of 180 pigeons removed since October last year.

Quotes have been received for external painting of the Bradman Birthplace cottages and outhouses. The work is scheduled to commence in spring when the weather warms up.

Plumbing works were carried out within the Cootamundra Caravan Park amenities buildings to repair leaking taps and toilets.

The Cootamundra EV charging stations’ data for May is shown below:-

The Civic Hall was found leaking in two areas following recent rainfall. A roofing contractor has investigated the issue and undertaken repairs to prevent the leaks from reoccurring. The gutters were cleaned out to assist water runoff from the large roof area.

Waste

The secondhand tip shop processed 104 transactions for May with a total of $706.30 in income. During this time staff have diverted 710kg of waste from landfill into the shop to be repurposed.

A total of 7 tonnes of recycled crushed concrete was sold this month, and a total of 36 tonnes of compost soil.

Capital Works Projects

Council has met with representatives from Cootamundra Senior Rugby League to discuss the Fisher Park changerooms, canteen and bar project. Given that the original scope of works is heavily underfunded, Council is now looking at staging the project. It is proposed that Stage 1 will consist of a new kitchen, bar and toilets. The existing infrastructure urgently requires a major upgrade with these facilities considered the priority. Stage 2 will focus on the new changerooms.

The Muttama Creek Master Plan saw ecologists, engineers and landscape architects meet on site to undertake a review of environmental factors and investigate the stormwater and GPT outlets leading into Muttama Creek. The landscape architects focused on areas for beautification and recreational opportunities. Physical work has commenced with clearing of the creek 10 metres from culverts and bridges and additionally, mowing the cumbungi along the creek.

The community consultation report carried out by Martens and Associates (Martens) as part of the Muttama Creek Master Plan project identified the following areas as priorities to landowners and residents:-

· Focus the Master Plan on flood mitigation – 8 submissions

· Creek management and maintenance – 18 submissions

· Alternative proposals such as levee banks – 2 submissions

· Ecology – 4 submissions

· Public recreation and enjoyment - 6 submissions

· Aboriginal cultural significance – 3 submissions

· Local history – 2 submissions

Martens have completed a draft concept civil engineering design and is proposing to increase the channel capacity (including widening of the creek), include some meanders within the creek and also in-stream pools so the creek can hold some water during no flow conditions.

Biosecurity – General and WAP Activity May 2025

Regulatory Service/Biosecurity-Weeds Management: May 2025

WAP Activity:

Activity	Location	Km/Count	Date
Public Roadside Inspections	Burley Griffin Way	31km	6/5/2025 7/5/2025 8/5/2025 9/5/2025
	Olympic HWY	34km	9/5/2025 13/5/2025 14/5/2025
	Old Gundagai Road	22km	16/4/2025 19/4/2025
	Kilrush Road	6.5km	21/5/2025
		TOTAL: 93.5KM
High-Risk Site Inspections:	Truck Wash	1 Inspection	15/5/2025
Private Property Inspections	8 Young St	1 reactionary inspection Total: 85/60	2/5/2025
Inspect Council owned and Managed Lands (≥ 2 annual):	Stockinbingal Cemetery	1 Inspection	1/5/2025
Activity	Location	KM/Count	Date
Implementing & Upgrading of Red Guide Post (RGP) Initiative (Co-ordination)	Cootamundra	1 Updated Cootamundra program submitted to Regional Coordinator	19/3/2025
Implementing & Upgrading of Red Guide Post (RGP) Initiative (Co-ordination) (Target 1)	Cootamundra	1 Updated Cootamundra program submitted to Regional Coordinator	19/3/2025
LCAs to support Biosecurity Weed Officers to attend State Weed Conference (Coordination event)	Port Macquarie	0	4-7^th August
Provide landholders with education, training & technical advice & support on weed management (Extension)	Cootamundra	1 bridal creeper social media notice/	16/5/2025
Community engagement events to raise public awareness	Cootamundra	N/A	N/A
Participate in Regional Weed Committee meetings. Complete delegate reports for Regional Weed Committee meetings.	Wagga Wagga	N/A	N/A
Participate in Regional Weed Committee meetings. Complete delegate reports for Regional Weed Committee meetings.	Wagga Wagga	4,3	N/A

Generalised Activity:

Activity	Location	Description	Date
Roadside Maintenance (Side-Spray)	Burley griffin Way	Side-spray	6/5/2025 7/5/2025 8/5/2025 9/5/2025
	Olympic HWY	Side-spray	9/5/2025 13/5/2025 14/5/2025
	Old Gundagai Road	Side-spray	16/4/2025 19/4/2025
	Kilrush Road	Side-spray	21/5/2025
General Weed Control	Stockinbingal	Blackberry control village bridges.	1/5/2025
	Cootamundra Tip	General knockdown various weeds on soil piles.	1/5/2025
	Wallendbeen	- Blackberry and sweet briar control. - Broad-leaf privet (regrowth control) Silo Road.	2/5/2025
	Olympic HWY	Blackberry control.	2/5/2025
High Priority Weed Control	Burley Griffin Way	Sticky nightshade control. BIS recorded.	8/5/2025 9/5/2025

General Comments:

- Roadside maintenance side-spraying performed as requested (MR 78; MR 84).

- Local road maintenance side-spraying initiated (avoiding areas under grazing permits).

Items of Note:

- Reactionary private property inspection conducted at Wallendbeen at request of Local Land Services.

- Landholder complaint of blackberry encroachment on property boundaries.

- Control work implemented on Council lands.

- Landholder satisfied with outcome (Local Land Services notified).

- Two sticky nightshade (eradication priority) plants found roadside on Burley Griffin Way (plants destroyed and BIS recorded).

- Weed Risk Assessments (WRAs) undertaken (blackberry, foxtail fern, climbing asparagus) at request of Regional Coordinator.

- WRAs to be submitted to DPI and recommended control measure (prevention, eradication, containment or asset protection) to be included in Riverina Strategic Weed Management Plan.

Upcoming:

- Quarter four WAP delegate report and final (2025) RRWC meeting Wagga Wagga.

- Broad-leaf privet removal and cut-stump control in Wallendbeen cemetery as per Biodiversity Conservation Agreement.

Financial

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

OLG 23a Guideline consideration

No impacts associated with this report.

REPORTING OFFICER	Teresa Breslin, Executive Assistant to Mayor and General Manager
AUTHORISING OFFICER	Roger Bailey, Interim General Manager
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. Minutes of the Extraordinary Meeting of Council held on Tuesday 20 May 2025

DOCUMENT NUMBER	440042
AUTHORISING OFFICER	Abb McAlister, Mayor
REPORTING OFFICER	Abb McAlister, Mayor
ATTACHMENTS	Nil