Agenda of Ordinary Council Meeting - Tuesday, 23 September 2025

Ordinary Council Meeting Minutes

26 August 2025

MINUTES OF Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council
Ordinary Council Meeting
HELD AT THE Alby Schultz meeting Centre, Cootamundra
ON Tuesday, 26 August 2025 AT 6:00PM

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

IN ATTENDANCE: Roger Bailey (Interim General Manager), Trevor Dando (Acting Deputy General Manager - Operations), Damian Smith (Acting Manager Finance), Linda Wiles (Manager Business), Anne Chamberlain (Governance Officer)

2 Open Forum

Nil

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 July 2025

Resolution 151/2025

Moved: Cr Les Cooper

Seconded: Cr Gil Kelly

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

Carried

6 Mayoral Minutes

6.1 Mayoral Minute - Councillor Engagement

Resolution 152/2025

Moved: Cr David Graham

Seconded: Cr Ethan Ryan

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

Carried

7 Reports from Committees

Nil

8 General Manager’s Report

8.1 General Manager Office

8.1.1 Christmas and New Year Closure

Resolution 153/2025

Moved: Cr Penny Nicholson

Seconded: Cr Ethan Ryan

The Christmas 2025 and New Year 2026 closures for Council facilities be noted.

Carried

8.1.2 Draft Councillor and Staff Interaction Policy

Resolution 154/2025

Moved: Cr Gil Kelly

Seconded: Cr Les Cooper

1. That subject to the authorised staff member names and the ‘Interim’ and ‘Acting’ be removed in the Policy

2. That the draft Councillor and Staff Interaction Policy be adopted.

Carried

8.1.3 Draft Disability and Inclusion Action Plan 2025-29

Resolution 155/2025

Moved: Cr Logan Collins

Seconded: Cr Les Cooper

1. The draft Disability and Inclusion Action Plan, attached to the report, be publicly exhibited for twenty-eight (28) days.

2. If no submissions are received, endorse the Disability and Inclusion Action Plan at the completion of the exhibition period.

Carried

8.2 Business

8.2.1 The Arts Centre Cootamundra s.355 Committee Ordinary Meeting Minutes, AGM Minutes and Membership

Resolution 156/2025

Moved: Cr David Graham

Seconded: Cr Penny Nicholson

1. The Minutes of the Ordinary meeting held 17 July 2025, and the Minutes of the Annual General Meeting (AGM) held 17 July 2025 of The Arts Centre Cootamundra s.355 Committee, attached to the report, be received and noted.

2. The office bearers and membership of The Arts Centre Cootamundra s.355 Committee, be endorsed.

Carried

8.2.2 Cootamundra Heritage Centre Management s.355 Committee Meeting Minutes

Resolution 157/2025

Moved: Cr Les Cooper

Seconded: Cr David Graham

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

Carried

8.2.3 Customer Service Charter

Resolution 158/2025

Moved: Cr Les Cooper

Seconded: Cr Ethan Ryan

That the Customer Service Charter, attached to the report, be endorsed.

Carried

8.2.4 Public Library Funding Strategy 2025-26

Resolution 159/2025

Moved: Cr Ethan Ryan

Seconded: Cr Danyal Syed

That the report on the Public Library Funding Strategy 2025-26 be noted.

Carried

8.2.5 Delivery Program - Operational Plan Quarterly Progress Report

Resolution 160/2025

Moved: Cr Logan Collins

Seconded: Cr Gil Kelly

The Delivery Program incorporating the Operational Plan 2024/2025, quarterly progress report, (4th Quarter, April, May and June), attached to the report, be received and noted.

Carried

8.2.6 Establishment of a Demerger Transition Committee

Resolution 161/2025

Moved: Cr Logan Collins

Seconded: Cr Gil Kelly

That Council:

1. Authorise six Councillors to workshop with the Interim General Manager to develop recommendations for Council regarding the establishment of a Demerger Transition Committee, including:

i) the proposed composition of the Committee;

ii) draft Terms of Reference;

iii) any delegations to be conferred; and

iv) any other matters relevant to the Committee’s establishment and the commencement of the demerger process.

2. Request that a report be presented to the September 2025 Council meeting outlining the outcomes of the workshop and recommendations for the establishment of the Committee.

3. Appoint the following Councillors to participate in the workshop:

o The Mayor;

o The Deputy Mayor;

o Two Councillors representing the Cootamundra area; and

o Two Councillors representing the Gundagai area.

Procedural Motion

Moved: Cr Logan Collins

Seconded: Cr Gil Kelly

That Council break for up to five minutes to allow Councillors to discuss representation for the workshop.

Recess at 6:30pm

The meeting resumed: 6.33

Resolution 162/2025

Moved: Cr Collins

Seconded: Cr Gil Kelly

Council made a further resolution in relation to item 8.2.6, that Council appoint the following Councillors for the workshop.

o Cootamundra: Cr Gil Kelly and Cr Ethan Ryan

o Gundagai: Cr Penny Nicholson and Cr David Graham

Carried

8.2.7 Eastern Riverina Arts (ERA) Membership Renewal

Resolution 163/2025

Moved: Cr Penny Nicholson

Seconded: Cr David Graham

The proposed Membership Fee of $8,720.21, for the Eastern Riverina Arts, as budgeted, be endorsed.

Carried

8.2.8 Access and Inclusion Advisory Committee Meeting Minutes

Resolution 164/2025

Moved: Cr Logan Collins

Seconded: Cr Les Cooper

The Minutes of the Access and Inclusion Advisory Committee Meetings held, 23 July 2025 and 6 August 2025, attached to the report, be received and noted.

Carried

8.2.9 Cootamundra Turf Club Sponsorship Proposal

Resolution 165/2025

Moved: Cr Ethan Ryan

Seconded: Cr Penny Nicholson

That Council decline the sponsorship request from the Cootamundra Turf Club on the basis that it does not align with current Council priorities and that available funding may be required to support the demerger process.

Carried

8.3 Finance

8.3.1 Finance Update - July 2025

Resolution 166/2025

Moved: Cr David Graham

Seconded: Cr Abb McAlister

That the Finance Update report, be received and noted.

Carried

8.3.2 Investment Report - July 2025

Resolution 167/2025

Moved: Cr David Graham

Seconded: Cr Penny Nicholson

The report detailing Council Cash and Investments as at 31st July 2025, be received and noted.

Carried

8.3.3 Restricted Cash Reconciliation - June 2025

Resolution 168/2025

Moved: Cr Les Cooper

Seconded: Cr Ethan Ryan

1. The Restricted Cash Reconciliation report, be received and noted.

2. That Council receive further advice on the transfer of internally restricted resources to unrestricted to compensate for the current shortfall as at 30 June 2025.

Carried

8.3.4 Restricted Cash Reconciliation - July 2025

Resolution 169/2025

Moved: Cr Ethan Ryan

Seconded: Cr Logan Collins

The Restricted Cash Reconciliation report, be received and noted.

Carried

8.4 Sustainable Development

8.4.1 Draft Planning Agreement Policy

Resolution 170/2025

Moved: Cr Ethan Ryan

Seconded: Cr Les Cooper

That Council:

1. Amend clause 43.1 of the draft policy to say “Where Council is the determining authority for a development application involving a planning agreement the Councillors will not be involved in the negotiation of the planning agreement but a decision on whether the Council will enter into a planning agreement will be made by resolution of the governing body of the Council”.

2. Endorse and publicly exhibit the Draft Planning Agreements Policy for a period of not less than 28 days; and

3. Adopt the Policy if no substantive submissions are received during the exhibition period; and

4. If substantive submissions are received, the draft policy be reviewed and further report be presented to the Council for consideration.

Carried

8.4.2 Negotiation of Planning Agreement - Bondo Windfarm

Resolution 171/2025

Moved: Cr Penny Nicholson

Seconded: Cr Logan Collins

That Council:

1. Authorise the Mayor, Deputy Mayor and Interim General Manager to enter into negotiations with NEOEN on behalf of Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council for the purpose of securing Benefit Sharing Funds including a Planning Agreement in relation to the proposed Bondo Wind Farm subject of State Significant Development application (SSD-86276211); and

2. That such negotiations be undertaken in accordance with the Environmental Planning & Assessment Act 1979 and associated regulations and in consideration of Planning agreement Practice Note published by NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Industry May 2025 and Benefit-Sharing Guideline dated November 2024.

Carried

8.4.3 Negotiation of Amended Planning Agreement - Eulonga Quarry

Resolution 172/2025

Moved: Cr Logan Collins

Seconded: Cr Ethan Ryan

That Council resolve to:

1. Authorise the Mayor, Deputy Mayor and Interim General Manager to enter into negotiations with the Developer of the Eulonga Quarry on behalf of Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council for the purpose of an Amended Planning Agreement in relation to current Development Application DA 2025/32 and current approved quarry operations; and

Carried

8.4.4 DA 2025/47 - Proposed Dwelling - 17 Neil McInerney Street, Gundagai

Resolution 173/2025

Moved: Cr Penny Nicholson

Seconded: Cr Les Cooper

That Council resolve to approve DA 2025/47 subject to conditions of consent as outlined in the accompanying Draft Notice of Determination and authorise minor amendments to correct any errors prior to issuing the final notice.

Carried

VOTING RECORD
FOR RESOLUTION	AGAINST RESOLUTION
Cr Abb McAlister (Mayor) Cr Rosalind Wight Cr Logan Collins Cr Les Cooper Cr David Graham Cr Gil Kelly Cr Penny Nicholson Cr Ethan Ryan Cr Danyal Syed	Nil
ABSENT	DECLARED INTEREST
Nil	Nil

8.4.5 DA 2025/85 - Erection of a Garage - 150 Adams Street, Cootamundra

Resolution 174/2025

Moved: Cr David Graham

Seconded: Cr Les Cooper

That Council resolve to approve DA 2025/85 for the erection of a shed/garage, subject to the conditions of consent detailed in the accompanying Draft Notice of Determination and authorise minor amendments to correct any errors prior to issuing the final notice.

VOTING RECORD
FOR RESOLUTION	AGAINST RESOLUTION
Cr Abb McAlister (Mayor) Cr Rosalind Wight Cr Logan Collins Cr Les Cooper Cr David Graham Cr Gil Kelly Cr Penny Nicholson Cr Ethan Ryan Cr Danyal Syed	Nil
ABSENT	DECLARED INTEREST
Nil	Nil

Carried

8.4.6 DA 2025/73 - Proposed Carport - 5 Campbell Street, Cootamundra

Resolution 175/2025

Moved: Cr Logan Collins

Seconded: Cr Ethan Ryan

That Council resolve to approve DA 2025/73 for the erection of a new carport attached to the existing dwelling, subject to the conditions of consent detailed in the accompanying Draft Notice of Determination and authorise minor amendments to correct any errors prior to issuing the final notice.

Carried

VOTING RECORD
FOR RESOLUTION	AGAINST RESOLUTION
Cr Abb McAlister (Mayor) Cr Rosalind Wight Cr Logan Collins Cr Les Cooper Cr David Graham Cr Gil Kelly Cr Penny Nicholson Cr Ethan Ryan Cr Danyal Syed	Nil
ABSENT	DECLARED INTEREST
Nil	Nil

8.5 Engineering Cootamundra

8.5.1 Cootamundra Engineering Report - August 2025

Resolution 176/2025

Moved: Cr David Graham

Seconded: Cr Logan Collins

That the Cootamundra Engineering Report for the month of July 2025 be noted.

Carried

8.5.2 TfNSW 2025 Authorisation-Delegation Instrument

Resolution 177/2025

Moved: Cr Les Cooper

Seconded: Cr Penny Nicholson

1. That Council endorses the use of the new TfNSW 2025 Authorisation-Delegation – Prescribed Traffic Control Devices and Regulation of Traffic (the Instrument).

2. That Council staff proceed with approvals as outlined in the attached documents.

3. That the Local Transport Forum be consulted where required.

Carried

8.5.3 Heavy Vehicle Travel Restriction on Local Roads

Motion

Moved: Cr Logan Collins

Seconded: Cr Penny Nicholson

1. That Council prohibit vehicles exceeding 64.5 tonnes and 26 metres from using Council controlled roads, except for the following situations, which are to be assessed on a case by case basis:

a. Indivisible Loads

b. Vehicles which have been assessed to be suitable through the development approval processes.

c. Where Council engineers have assessed infrastructure to warrant a different restriction on dimensions and/or weight of the vehicle.

2. That Council liaise with industry stakeholders to implement the restriction.

The MOTION was withdrawn.

Resolution 178/2025

Moved: Cr Logan Collins

Seconded: Cr Gil Kelly

That a Council workshop in relation to Heavy vehicle Travel Restriction on local roads be held.

Carried

8.6 Engineering Gundagai

8.6.1 Gundagai Engineering Report - August 2025

Resolution 179/2025

Moved: Cr David Graham

Seconded: Cr Danyal Syed

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

Carried

8.7 Regional Services Gundagai

8.7.1 Gundagai Regional Services Report - June 2025

Resolution 180/2025

Moved: Cr Les Cooper

Seconded: Cr Logan Collins

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

Carried

8.8 Regional Services Cootamundra

8.8.1 Regional Services - Cootamundra Monthly Works Report

Resolution 181/2025

Moved: Cr Ethan Ryan

Seconded: Cr Gil Kelly

The Regional Services – Cootamundra Monthly Works Report for the month of July 2025 be received and noted.

Carried

9 Motion of which Notice has been Given

Nil

10 Questions with Notice

Nil

11 Confidential Items

11.1 Closed Council Report

Resolution 182/2025

Moved: Cr Logan Collins

Seconded: Cr Gil Kelly

1. Council entered Closed Council at 7.06pm.

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

11.2 Human Resources Report

Resolution 183/2025

Moved: Cr Gil Kelly

Seconded: Cr Logan Collins

That the information in the Human Resources Report be noted.

Carried

11.3 Cootamundra and Gundagai pool contract extensions

Resolution 184/2025

Moved: Cr Gil Kelly

Seconded: Cr David Graham

That Council authorises the Interim General Manager (IGM) to enter into negotiations to exercise a one-year contract extension with both the current contractor who manages the Cootamundra pool and stadium, and the current contractor who manages the Gundagai pool and gym.

Carried

11.4 Resumption of Open Council Meeting

Resolution 185/2025

Moved: Cr David Graham

Seconded: Cr Les Cooper

That the Open Council meeting resume at 7.08pm.

Carried

11.5 Announcement of Closed Council Resolutions

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

The Meeting closed at 7.10pm.


CHAIRPERSON	GENERAL MANAGER

Cootamundra-Gundagai Local Traffic Committee Meeting Minutes

14 August 2025

MINUTES OF Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council
Cootamundra-Gundagai Local Traffic Committee Meeting
HELD AT THE Alby Schultz Meeting Centre, Cootamundra
ON Thursday, 14 August 2025 AT 10:00am

PRESENT: Gwen Norman (Local Electorate Representative), Dennis Palmer (Local Electorate Representative), Greg Mineham (Lead Community & Safety Partner), Logan Collins (CGRC Councillor), Les Cooper (CGRC Councillor), Ben Smith (Sergeant Riverina Highway Patrol), Maxine Imrie (Bus Service Operators Representative)

IN ATTENDANCE: David Brodie (Acting Manager Engineering Cootamundra), Thomas Hogg (Acting Manager Engineering Gundagai, Kylie Grybaitis (Road Safety Officer)

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.

2 Apologies and Leave of Absence

Justin Knewstub (Sergeant Riverina Police Department)

2.1 Apologies

Nil

2.2 Leave of Absence

Nil

3 Disclosures of Interest

Gwen Norman notified the Local Transport Forum (LTF) that she will be stepping down from her position due to a potential conflict of interest arising from a newly obtained role. Gwen introduced Dennis Palmer as the new Local Electorate Representative for the Local Transport Forum.

4 Confirmation of Minutes

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

Recommendation

That the Minutes of the Cootamundra-Gundagai Local Traffic Committee Meeting held on Thursday 8 May 2025 be confirmed as a true and correct record of the meeting.

Discussion

Agreed as a true and correct record of the meeting.

5 Reports

5.1 Boundary, Berthong and Temora Road Intersection Safety

Recommendation

That the GIVE WAY signs and Advanced Warning GIVE WAY signs on Boundary Road and Berthong Road at the Temora Street intersection are replaced with STOP signs and Advanced Warning STOP signs.

Discussion

Endorsed by the LTF and referred to Council for adoption.

The LTF discussed the four sign designs presented at the Forum in detail. NSW Police raised the importance of the reduce speed signage for residents unfamiliar with the intersection which was supported by the remaining Forum members.

Line marking was raised as an issue that needs to be rectified and the removal of a speed sign near Racecourse Road is to be investigated by TfNSW.

Council will utilise VMS boards to notify road users of changed traffic conditions and will provide AMG Labour Hire Companies with road safety information to support local workers.

Note: The Forum agreed that lighting or redesign of the intersection would improve the safety of the intersection and may need to be revisited in the future if compliance does not improve.

5.2 Reef Creek Bridge Warning Signage, Muttama

Recommendation

That Reef Creek Bridge signage on Muttama Road be updated to ensure adequate warning of the upcoming narrow bridge.

Discussion

Endorsed by the LTF and referred to Council for adoption.

5.3 Temora Street and Parker Street Intersection Safety, Cootamundra

Recommendation

That the current GIVE WAY signs on Temora Street are replaced with ‘C’ size STOP signs and a continuous control line on both sides of the Parker Street intersection.

Discussion

The LTF revised the recommendation to replace ‘C’size GIVE WAY signs with ‘C’ size STOP signs on Temora Street on both sides of the Parker Street intersection. Advanced STOP warning signs were deemed unnecessary due to the 40km/h speed zone.

Council will provide VMS support alerting road users of the changed traffic conditions. Council will also notify Sacred Heart School of the new conditions.

Note: TfNSW have stated that technical direction fails to meet the warrant for STOP signs at this location. The warrant was not meet due to clear, unobstructed sight distance for more than 30m in both directions with no significant crash history recorded in the past five years.

5.4 Coota Beach Volleyball 2026

Recommendation

That approval be given to Cootamundra Health Care Co-Operative Ltd to hold the 2026 Coota Beach Volleyball Carnival from the 13 - 15 February 2026 subject to the following conditions:

1. The temporary closure of Murray Street (Wallendoon Street to Bourke Street) between Tuesday 10^th February and Monday the 16^th February inclusive;

2. The event organiser complies with any conditions set by Council and the NSW Police;

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

4. A current Certificate of Currency (COC) is submitted to Council noting Council, TfNSW and NSW Police as interested parties (to be submitted closer to the event date);

5. Council provides a Traffic Guidance Scheme and associated traffic control (attached).

Discussion

The Bus Services Representative confirmed that this closure would have no direct repercussions on local transport services.

Approval will be given on submission of the COC. Final approval will be issued by NSW Police.

5.5 All Schools Beach Volleyball 2026

Recommendation

That approval be given to Sacred Heart Central School to hold the 2026 All Schools Beach Volleyball Carnival on the 13 February 2026 subject to the following conditions:

1. The temporary closure of Murray Street (Wallendoon Street to Bourke Street) between Tuesday 10 February and Monday 16 February inclusive (closure included in the Coota Beach Volleyball Carnival proposal).

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

3. The Event Management Plan (EMP) is completed and submitted to Council (attached).

4. A current Certificate of Currency (COC) is submitted to Council.

5. Council provides a Traffic Guidance Scheme and associated traffic control (attached).

Discussion

It is noted that the Department of Education do not need to nominate interested parties on the Public Liability Insurance Certificate (Council, TfNSW and NSW Police).

Final approval will be issued by NSW Police.

5.6 Upcoming Events

Recommendation

For the Committee’s information.

Discussion

A report highlighting approved local events will be included in the LTF agenda moving forward.

5.7 General Business

Discussion

1. Eagle Street Intersection Safety

The LTF noted a low traffic environment with good sight visibility. Council will conduct a community awareness campaign reminding drivers to obey road signs and line marking.

2. Hoskins Stree, Stockinbingal Traffic Data

In response to the traffic data presented to the LTF, and the proximity of Hoskins Street to a State Highway, Council will submit a report for inclusion in the next LTF agenda identifying infrastructure concerns and the safety implications of excessive heavy vehicle usage.

3. Stratton Avenue, Cootamundra Traffic Data

The Forum agreed that there was no further action required.

4. Stockinbingal Cemetery Speed Zone Extension

A temporary speed restriction was intially declined by TfNSW and referred to Council for consideration under section 116 and 138 of the Local Roads Act 2013. Council has approved an 18 month temporary speed reduction under this legisalation.

5. Dirnaseer Road and Olympic Highway Intersection Safety

The Centre for Road Safety have conducted a risk based anaylsis on roads thorughout NSW and this location is not currently considered as a high priority. No further community speed based investigations will be conducted until the identified risk locations have been completed.

6. The Authorisation and Delegation Instrument

Points of discussion:

· The LTF Forum quorum is a TfNSW and NSW Police

· Delegation is given to elected Council members and can be sub-delegtaed to Council staff through the General Manager.

· The LTF is not a committee but rather a Forum.

· The structure can remain similar to the LTC.

· TfNSW are still the authority for speed zones and the State network.

· Objections on behalf of members must be lodged through TfNSW as a ‘Statement of Concern’.

· Council can not commence work until a ‘Statement of Concern’ has been addressed.

· Races and events that exceed 24 hours must be presented to the LTF. A report notifying the LTF of all other approved on-road events must be provided by Council.

· The CGRC Councillor raised the appointment of a Chariperson for the LTF.

· LTF meeting frequency was raised and members agreed to keep meetings on the same schedule as the LTC meetings.

Late Items:

7. Request for reclassification of Taxi rank to include booked vehicles

TfNSW provided advice that Taxi Ranks zones are a separate zone from hire or booked vehicle services zone, and that these zones can not be combined (a location can only be one or the other). Suggestion was made to retain the Taxi rank and encourage hired/booked parking to utilise available parking spaces within the vicinity of the Taxi rank.

The Meeting closed at 12:20pm.

The minutes of the Local Traffic Forum were confirmed at the Cootamundra-Gundagai Ordinary Council Meeting held on 26 August 2025.

................................................... …………………………………………………

CHAIRPERSON GENERAL MANAGER

Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

23 September 2025

8.1 General Manager Office

8.1.1 Establishment of a Demerger Transition Committee

DOCUMENT NUMBER

446004

REPORTING OFFICER

Roger Bailey, Interim General Manager

AUTHORISING OFFICER

Roger Bailey, Interim General Manager

RELEVANCE TO COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN

4. Collaborative and progressive leadership

4.1 A clear strategic direction that is delivered upon

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

There are no Financial implications associated with this report.

LEGISLATIVE IMPLICATIONS

Section 355 and Section 377(1)Local Government Act 1993 (NSW)

POLICY IMPLICATIONS

There are no Policy implications associated with this report.

ATTACHMENTS

1. Draft Demerger Transition Committee Terms of Reference ⇩

Recommendation

That Council:

1. Endorse the establishment of a Demerger Transition Committee pursuant to Section 355(c) of the Local Government Act 1993 (NSW).

2. Approve the draft Terms of Reference for the Committee.

3. Authorise the Demerger Transition Committee to make decisions necessary to achieve the orderly demerger of the Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council and creation of the two new councils. Such decisions must be made via an absolute majority of councillors present at the time of the meeting.

4. Appoint the Mayor and Councillors Wight, Nicholson, Graham, Kelly, and Ryan to the Committee.

5. Note that there will be no alternate representatives.

6. Receive ongoing reports from the Committee at each Ordinary Council Meeting.

Introduction

The purpose of this report is to seek Council’s endorsement to establish a dedicated Demerger Transition Committee to oversee and guide the planning, communication, and implementation of the demerger process in line with statutory obligations and community expectations.

Background

Following recent developments regarding the proposed demerger of Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council (CGRC), a formal structure is required to ensure a coordinated, transparent, and accountable approach to transition planning.

At its August 2025 meeting, Council resolved to authorise six Councillors to workshop with the Interim General Manager on:

· The proposed composition of the Committee;

· Draft Terms of Reference;

· Any delegations to be conferred; and

· Any other matters relevant to the Committee’s establishment and commencement of the demerger process.

The establishment of a Demerger Transition Committee will provide governance oversight, strategic coordination, and stakeholder engagement to address the complex financial, administrative, infrastructure, and workforce implications of the demerger.

Discussion

The demerger process will involve a wide range of issues, including:

· Asset and liability division;

· Workforce planning;

· Financial and budget separation;

· Re-establishment of two independent governance and operational frameworks;

· Community engagement and communication;

· Alignment with NSW Government requirements and timelines.

Given this complexity, it is proposed that the Demerger Transition Committee be established as a formal Advisory Committee of Council under Section 355 of the Local Government Act 1993 (NSW).

Legislative Framework

· Section 355 of the Local Government Act 1993 (NSW) allows a council to exercise its functions by a committee of the council.

· Section 377(1) allows the council to delegate many of its functions to a committee (with certain exceptions). Delegated powers can enable the Transition Committee to provide timely recommendations back to the elected Council.

The Committee will operate under an adopted Terms of Reference covering:

· Membership and structure;

· Meeting frequency;

· Reporting obligations;

· Key responsibilities and scope of authority.

Important Note: while the demerger of the Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council is a unique situation, the Council is still obligated through the process to follow the NSW Local Government Act 1993.

Proposed Committee Composition

It is proposed that the Committee comprise of those councillors that undertook the workshop, including the Mayor and Councillors Wight, Nicholson, Graham, Kelly, and Ryan.

Secretariat support will be provided by Council staff.

Objectives of the Committee

The Transition Committee will:

1. Provide strategic oversight of the demerger process.

2. Facilitate clear and consistent communication with the community, staff, and NSW Government.

3. Develop a Demerger Transition Plan and monitor progress against agreed milestones.

4. Provide recommendations to Council on significant risks, issues, and budget implications.

5. Monitor community feedback and ensure transparency throughout the process.

Additional Information

Following discussions with the NSW Office of Local Government (OLG) on 8 August 2025, the following points are noted:

· The demerger is Council’s responsibility to manage.

· OLG’s preferred completion date is 30 June, requiring Council’s preparatory work to be finalised by mid-December to allow the Proclamation to be drafted.

· A likely commencement date for the two new councils is 1 July 2027. Bringing this forward could create accounting complexities.

· OLG recommended a Transition Committee reporting directly to Council as the appropriate governance model.

· OLG may prepare Section 23A Guidelines once Council’s Transition Plan is submitted.

· Council’s Transition Plan should simplify the existing draft into clear, actionable steps.

· Financial sustainability options (beyond Special Rate Variations) should be considered, including service adjustments or alternative funding sources.

· A shared services approach requires a clear policy decision.

· A dispute resolution process will need to be established.

· OLG will not have a formal place on the Committee but may occasionally attend as observers.

· The Minister has confirmed that no funding will be provided to support the demerger process.

Financial

There are no direct financial implications arising from this report.

OLG 23a Guideline consideration

This report is consistent with the Local Government Act 1993 (NSW) and does not conflict with existing OLG 23A Guidelines.

Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

23 September 2025

8.3 Finance

8.3.1 Finance Update - August 2025

DOCUMENT NUMBER

445778

REPORTING OFFICER

Damian Smith, Acting Manager Finance

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

That the Finance Update report, be received and noted.

Report

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

Operations

Income

The operational income is at 47% 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	$154,414	$445,000	35%	J
Business Department	$11,506	$240,000	5%	J
Engineering Cootamundra	$202,097	$3,143,489	6%	J
Engineering Gundagai	$38,648	$858,488	5%	J
Executive Department	$32,986	$40,000	82%	J
Finance Department	$2,083,642	$8,286,920	25%	J
Rates Cootamundra	$6,930,098	$7,287,312	95%	J
Rates Gundagai	$4,789,534	$4,799,875	100%	J
Services Cootamundra	$2,710,612	$3,733,588	73%	J
Services Gundagai	$1,006,176	$1,741,700	58%	J
Sewer Cootamundra	$733,019	$3,204,437	23%	J
Sewer Gundagai	$194,853	$895,677	22%	J
Water Cootamundra	$974,731	$3,777,200	26%	J
Water Gundagai	$480,091	$1,913,587	25%	J
Plant Hire - Gundagai	$188,473	$1,900,000	10%	J
Plant Hire - Cootamundra	$332,441	$1,900,000	17%	J
Total	$20,863,321	$44,167,272	47%

Expenditure

Operational Expenditure is at 13% when comparing actual to budget.

Department	Expense Actual	Expense Budget	% Spent	Result	Comment
Building Department	$207,067	$1,886,675	11%	J
Business Department	$697,342	$4,201,251	17%	J
Engineering Cootamundra	$1,238,454	$8,054,208	15%	J
Engineering Gundagai	$465,896	$4,856,380	10%	J
Executive Department	$427,690	$2,600,713	16%	J
Finance Department	$2,106,040	$11,033,752	19%	J
Services Cootamundra	$899,417	$6,232,936	14%	J
Services Gundagai	$409,988	$2,926,363	14%	J
Sewer Cootamundra	$75,682	$2,237,237	3%	J
Sewer Gundagai	$97,625	$1,528,624	6%	J
Water Cootamundra	$43,293	$3,431,089	1%	J
Water Gundagai	$144,413	$1,713,593	8%	J
Total	$6,812,908	$50,702,821	13%

Capital

Income

Capital income is at 0% of budget when comparing actual to budget.

Asset Category	Total YTD.	Budget	%Received	Result	Comments
Plant & Equipment - Cootamundra	$32,771	$0	0%	J
Plant & Equipment - Gundagai	$53,779	$0	0%	J
Property Disposal – Cootamundra	$0	$0	0%	J
Property Disposal – Gundagai	$0	$0	0%	J
TOTAL	$86,550	$0	0%

Expenditure

Capital expenditure is at 16% of budget when comparing actual to budget.

Asset Category	Total YTD	Budget	% Spent	Result	Comments
Cootamundra Land	$2,737	$50,000	5%	J
Cootamundra Plant	$654,841	$1,300,000	50%	J
Cootamundra Roads	$154,752	$1,873,589	8%	J
Cootamundra Building	$0	$120,000	0%	J
Cootamundra Recreation	$50,015	$260,000	19%	J
Cootamundra Waste	$0	$0	0%	J
Cootamundra Bridges	$0	$20,000	0%	J
Cootamundra Water	$141,584	$923,943	15%	J
Cootamundra Sewer	$282,042	$1,895,000	15%	J
Cootamundra Demerger	$154,851	$1,500,000	10%	J
Cootamundra Property	$0	$0	0%	J
Gundagai Bridges	$53,433	$150,000	36%	J
Gundagai Building	$85,238	$155,000	55%	J
Gundagai Demerger	$154,851	$1,500,000	10%	J
Gundagai Plant	$419,315	$1,300,000	32%	J
Gundagai Property	$16,600	$0	0%	J
Gundagai Recreation	$0	$460,000	0%	J
Gundagai Roads	$305,420	$2,273,859	13%	J
Gundagai Sewer	$5,000	$1,169,610	1%	J
Gundagai Waste	$0	$0	0%	J
Gundagai Water	$563,882	$3,625,145	16%	J
IT	$0	$50,000	0%	J
Total	$3,044,560	$18,626,146	16%

Financial

There are no financial implications associated with this report.

OLG 23a Guideline consideration

Report purpose does not conflict with guidelines.

Demerger Costs Update

A screenshot of a document

AI-generated content may be incorrect.

Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

23 September 2025

8.3.2 Restricted Cash Reconciliation - August 2025

DOCUMENT NUMBER

445842

REPORTING OFFICER

Damian Smith, Acting Manager Finance

AUTHORISING OFFICER

Roger Bailey, Interim General Manager

RELEVANCE TO COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN

4. Collaborative and progressive leadership

4.1 A clear strategic direction that is delivered upon

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

*Refer to note at Financial below.

LEGISLATIVE IMPLICATIONS

There are no Legislative implications associated with this report.

POLICY IMPLICATIONS

There are no Policy implications associated with this report.

ATTACHMENTS

Nil

Recommendation

The Restricted Cash Reconciliation report, be received and noted.

Report

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

Internally Restricted Reserves	Bal 30 Jun 2025	Transfers To	Transfers From	Bal 31 Aug 2025
Aerodrome Bitumen Resurfacing	$165,588	$0	$0	$165,588
Bradman's Birthplace	$76,337	$0		$76,337
Cootamundra Caravan Park	$191,419	$0	$510	$190,909
Heritage Centre	$28,621	$0	$2,739	$25,882
Development - Land & Buildings	$1,767,204	$0	$0	$1,767,204
Employee Leave Entitlements	$1,536,363	$0	$0	$1,536,363
Quarries & Pit Restoration	$286,225	$0	$0	$286,225
Bangus Landfill	$631,584	$17,360	$0	$648,945
Plant Replacement	$2,749,019	$600,062	$994,588	$2,354,493
Cemetery	$37,962	$98,597	$43,604	$92,955
Southern Phone	$540,143	$0	$0	$540,143
Waste Management	$500,000	$0	$0	$500,000
Advanced Financial Assistance Grant	$3,720,234	$0	$3,720,234	$0
Total Internal	$12,230,699	$716,019	$4,761,675	$8,185,043

Externally Restricted Reserves
Domestic Waste	$2,173,658	$658,080	$310,400	$2,521,338
Water Supply	$9,166,501	$36,711	$749,297	$8,453,915
Sewerage Service	$6,918,079	$2,302	$237,175	$6,683,206
Stormwater Infrastructure Renewal	$517,986	$32,050		$550,036
Developer Contributions	$1,477,961	$13,850		$1,491,811
General Fund Unspent Grants & Contributions*	$1,587,958	$19,627	$248,245	$1,359,341
RERRF, SCF Rd1, OLG Flood Unspent Grants	$3,569,614		$95,710	$3,473,904
Total External	25,411,758	762,619	1,640,827	24,533,550
TOTALS	37,642,456	1,478,638	6,402,502	32,718,593
*Opening Balance indicative and subject to adjustment pending full grant reconciliation for the financial year 2024/25

Restricted Cash Reconciliation

Restricted Cash	32,718,593
Cash at 31 August 2025	32,991,395
Unrestricted Balance	272,802
Grant Debtors and Contract Asset Outstanding	281,165
Balance	553,968

Financial

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

OLG 23a Guideline consideration

Report purpose does not conflict with guidelines.

Unrestricted Funds - 30 June 2025

A close-up of a document

AI-generated content may be incorrect.

Please note above figures are still estimates. Reconciliations are still being completed for the Financial Statements for the year ended 30 June 2025.

At the August 2025 meeting it was resolved that Council receive further advice on the transfer of internally restricted resources to unrestricted to compensate for the current shortfall as at 30 June 2025.

Igor Ivannikov of Vanguard Consulting Group provided the following advice:

· The Local Government Act 1993 only considers Externally Restricted Funds in relation to Unrestricted Funds;

· Based on the current estimates above CGRC has Unrestricted Funds available of $1,160,713 at 30 June 2025, and is therefore still in compliance with LG Act Legislation;

· However, for reporting purposes in the 2025 Financial Statements, council will probably want to pass a resolution to un-restrict Internally Allocated Reserves as this will affect how the Cash after external restrictions and internal allocations needs to be disclosed.

Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

23 September 2025

8.4 Sustainable Development

8.4.1 Local Heritage Grant Funding Allocation

DOCUMENT NUMBER

445515

REPORTING OFFICER

Lauren Dawes, Acting Manager Sustainable Development

AUTHORISING OFFICER

Roger Bailey, Interim General Manager

RELEVANCE TO COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN

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

There are no Policy implications associated with this report.

ATTACHMENTS

1. Report - Local Heritage Fund Applications 2025-202 ⇩

2. Local Heritage Places Grant Application Guidelines ⇩

Recommendation

That Council resolve to allocate the $12,500 of funding received through 2025-2027 NSW Heritage Grants Program received from Heritage NSW, Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water for the purpose of the Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council Heritage Service as follows:-

1. $6,500.00 be allocated to Council expenditure relating local Heritage Advisory Service for costs incurred through the engagement of an external Heritage Consultant for consultation and advice provided to members of the public on local heritage matters and to Council staff for Development Application matters; and

2. The remaining $6,000 be split across the two applications received by Council through the Cootamundra-Gundagai Local Heritage Grant Program 2025/26 as follows:

2.1. $3,500.00 be awarded for the restoration of timber windows in the former vicarage at 37 Thompson Street, Cootamundra (item number 44 under the Cootamundra LEP 2013); and

2.2. $2,500 be awarded for the restoration of steel palisade fence at St Patrick’s Catholic Church at 107 Sheridan Street, Gundagai

3. The above to be allocated providing the terms of the Cootamundra-Gundagai Local Heritage Grant Program are met by the respective applicants.

Introduction

Council is fortunate to have received $25,000 funding under the under the 2025-27 Local Government Heritage program for the purpose of Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council Heritage Service. The funding provides for operation of the Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council Heritage Service for the 2025/26 and 2026/27 financial years.

The Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council Heritage Service includes:-

· Provision of funding to building owners to assist in the in the ongoing maintenance and restoration of existing buildings or sites with heritage significance and value to the area; and

· Provision of a free heritage advisory service to the community from a heritage consultant.

The purpose of this report is to determine how the funding shall be allocated for the 2025/26 financial year.

Discussion

Funding to be Allocated

A total of $25,000 has been awarded to Council for the operation of Council’s Heritage Service for the 2025/26 and 2026/27 financial years. To ensure funding across both years and consistency with Council’s grant application it is intended that $12,500 be allocated this financial year, the remaining $12,500 allocated for continued operation of the service for 2026/27 financial year.

Council is not required to provide any mandatory co-contribution to the grant.

Local Heritage Grants Applications

Applications for Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council Local Heritage Grants Program, being a component of Council’s Heritage Service, were open from Monday 14 July 2025 to Friday 22 August 2025. The program was advertised through local papers and on Council’s website.

Council received a total of two applications:-

1. An application seeking $5,000.00 for the restoration of steel palisade fence at St Patrick’s Catholic Church at 107 Sheridan Street, Gundagai. A project with a total estimated value of $10,200.00. The church is not a local heritage item but is well documented as having heritage value and significance to the area. The application was received on 21 August 2025; and

2. An application seeking $3,500.00 for the restoration of timber windows at the Vicarage at 37 Thompson Street, Cootamundra. A project with a total estimated value of $14,990.00. The vicarage is a heritage item (Item 44) under Cootamundra Local Environmental Plan 2013. The application was received on 29 August 2025, receipt of the application was outside of the advertised closure.

An assessment of both grant application’s has been undertaken by Council’s contracting heritage consultant and has recommended the following distribution of grant funds.

· $2,500.00 be awarded for the restoration of steel palisade fence at St Patrick’s Catholic Church at 107 Sheridan Street, Gundagai; and

A fenced area with grass and a building

AI-generated content may be incorrect.

Figure 1 -Steel palisade fence at St Patrick’s Catholic Church

· $3,500.00 be awarded for the restoration of timber windows in the Vicarage at 37 Thompson Street, Cootamundra.

A window in a room

AI-generated content may be incorrect.

Figure 2 - Timber windows at Vicarage

A copy of the assessment is attached outlining how the assessment was undertaken and recommendation made. Prior to undertaking of the assessment, advice was provided by Council’s Acting Manager of Sustainable Development that the assessment of the applications and recommendations be based on a total of $6,000.00 for the purpose of the Local Heritage Grants, consistent with the funding allocation in previous years and Council’s Grant Application. However, the funding allocation may be varied at Council’s discretion or decision to provide a co-contribution made.

Heritage advisory service to the community

Council’s heritage advisory service includes site visits and advice to members of the community regarding existing buildings, sites or areas with heritage significance or value free of charge. The service is provided by Council’s contracting Heritage Advisor and is coordinated by Council staff. Advice may relate to various matters not limited to heritage colour schemes, development proposals impacting heritage items or within a heritage conservation area, reinstatement or restoration of heritage items or features on a heritage item or sites with heritage value.

Council’s contracting Heritage Advisor is an architect specialising in heritage. The service is run by appointment only and the Heritage Advisor typically attends the area monthly or bi-monthly, depending on demand. Written advice is provided to members of the public and a copy provided to Council staff. Specialist advice is also provided to staff for development application matters. Remote desktop assessments and advice are also undertaken were appropriate to reduce expenditure.

The allocation of this service allows for specialist heritage advice to be provided to the community free of charge. It is recommended that $6,500.00 of the funding be allocated to the continuation of this service, consistent with previous years and Council’s Grant Application.

Financial

A reduction in the funding allocated to Council’s heritage advisory service would likely result in an increase in Council’s out of pocket expenditure for the provision of this service.

OLG 23a Guideline consideration

Does not conflict with the Office of Local Government (OLG) 23a guidelines.

Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

23 September 2025

8.4.2 DA 2025/89 - Proposed Farm Building - 3938 Snowy Mountains Highway, Mount Adrah

DOCUMENT NUMBER

445481

REPORTING OFFICER

Lauren Dawes, Acting Manager Sustainable Development

AUTHORISING OFFICER

Roger Bailey, Interim General Manager

RELEVANCE TO COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN

3. Protected and enhanced environment

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

1. Draft Notice of Determination ⇩

2. DA Assessment Report ⇩

3. Proposed Development ⇩

4. Statement of Environmental Effects ⇩

5. Owners Response to Submission ⇩

Recommendation

That Council approve DA 2025/89 subject to conditions of consent as outlined in the accompanying Draft Notice of Determination and authorise minor amendments to correct any errors prior to issuing the final notice.

Introduction

The proposed development seeks consent for the erection of a farm building on 3938 Snowy Mountains Highway, Mount Adrah.

During notification period for the proposed development a submission was received from the owner/occupier of the adjoining property objecting to the proposed development. Staff delegations do not provide for determination of applications where objections have been received, the application is therefore referred to Council for determination.

Discussion

Description of Development

The proposed development seeks consent for a 28m x 7.5m farm building containing 7 bays, 5 of which are proposed to be open plan and provided with vehicle access doors. The two end bays are proposed to contain separate workshop area, storage area, mudroom and bathroom.

Vehicle access into the building would be from the East, being the elevation on the opposite side of the proposed building to Snowy Mountains Highway.

A map of a mountain range

AI-generated content may be incorrect.

Figure 1 - Proposed location of new farm building (Source: extract submitted plans)

Shed demolished - Site of proposed farm building located behind

Figure 2 - Aerial imagery of subject site (source: Google Earth)

Assessment of Matters Raised by Submission

The development assessment report in Attachment 2, provides a detailed assessment of the matters raised in the submission and concludes that no changes to the location, design or materials proposed by the development be required.

A summary of the matters raised and the assessment of those matters is provided below:-

1. Use of reflective materials (cladding) impacting residence at 4000 Snowy Mountains Highway.

Assessment Overview:

· The applicant has confirmed that the proposed cladding will be zincalume.

· The building is situated to the west of the objector's residence approximately 315 meters away. The orientation of the neighbouring dwelling, along with an existing stand of trees that obstruct visibility between the buildings means any potential reflection from the building is likely to be minimal and won’t have a significant adverse impact on amenity of the neighbouring dwelling.

· Although the site plan did not clearly detail the orientation, the building's roof design slopes back towards the road (the opposite direction to the neighbouring dwelling), which further minimises the likelihood of reflections being directed toward the residence.

· Neither exempt or complying development provisions under the State Environmental Planning Policy (Exempt and Complying Development Codes) 2008 restrict the use of reflective materials on farm buildings in rural areas. The proposed building, while requiring DA consent is only marginally outside of both exempt and complying development allowances. Comparison with other legislative requirements is appropriate to establish broader expectations of the state.

· The use of zincalume for the new building aligns with the existing dwelling's roof material, promoting visual cohesion in the area.

· While not raised by the submission, the potential impact of the reflective cladding on Snowy Mountains Highway was evaluated. Given the proposed building's distance of 48m from the road and its downhill placement, any reflections are unlikely to adversely affect driver visibility or safety.

Assessment Conclusion:

The proposed cladding is not anticipated to result in any adverse impact of the adjoining dwelling. No change to the cladding or design/location of the proposed buildings is considered necessary. A condition could be applied requiring use of factory pre-coloured cladding, however, it is not considered necessary in this instance.

Figure 3 - View to neighbouring dwelling in distance from proposed building site

A green hills with trees and clouds

AI-generated content may be incorrect.

Figure 4 - View to neighbouring dwelling in distance from proposed building site (camera zoomed), top of roof visible above trees.

2. The effluent disposal area is located either on or very near to the flood plain of the Nacki Nacki Creek and possibly in the actual flooding zone. Which could lead to potential contamination of said creek, which residents down-stream are using in their homes.

Assessment Overview:

· A Land Capability Assessment Report was submitted with the application, adhering to the Onsite Wastewater Management Guidelines (April 2025) and Australian Standard AS 1547:2012.

· The proposed sewage management system consists of a septic tank with absorption trenches, deemed appropriate due to the anticipated periodic use of the amenities. Primary treatment is preferred over secondary treatment systems in this context, as the latter can encounter operational issues with irregular use.

· The septic tank and effluent disposal area are planned to be over 100 meters from Nacki Nacki Creek, meeting the recommended buffer distance from permanent water sources.

· The proposed area is situated above the apparent floodplain, reducing the likelihood of flooding impacts.

· A reserve application area has been designated to ensure an alternate site for effluent disposal if the primary trenches fail.

· Soil testing to a depth of 1.5 meters did not reveal a groundwater table, and the trench systems will have a maximum depth of 600mm, ensuring adequate separation from any underlying groundwater.

· While properties adjacent to the creek have rights to draw water for domestic use, it is advised that creek water should not be utilised for potable purposes due to potential contamination risks.

Assessment Conclusion:

It is appropriate for development consent be granted with standard conditions, including the requirement for obtaining an Approval to Operate an On-site Sewage Management System before the use of the building or system. An application for the Approval for Installation of an On-site Sewage Management System has been made and is appropriate to be issued.

Figure 5 - Proposed Land Application Area

Figure 6 - Building and Land Application Area (proposed septic location) (Source: Submitted Geotechnical Report)

3. Potential for the proposed building to be used for residential accommodation, tourist accommodation or storage sheds and subsequent increases in vehicle traffic and disturbance of adjoining property owner.

Assessment Overview:

· The application is specifically for a farm building intended for associated with agricultural use of the property. It is the responsibility of the current and future owners to comply with any consent granted.

· While unlawful use of farm buildings for residential purposes is noted in rural areas, the presence of an existing lawful dwelling on the property reduces the likelihood of this occurring. Any change of use for accommodation or commercial purposes would require separate development consent, which would be assessed for potential impacts on surrounding properties. Notwithstanding this, agritourism provisions under the State Environmental Planning Policy (Exempt and Complying Development Codes) 2008 allow for certain exempt and complying development options related to agritourism, provided they meet specific development standards.

· The owners have provided a written assurance that there is no intent to use the proposed building for residential or commercial purposes.

Assessment Conclusion:

It is appropriate for a condition be included in the consent to reinforce that any proposed use of the building for residential or commercial activities (beyond its intended agricultural use) requires development consent. While this condition is often included in similar development applications, it is not strictly necessary as existing legislation already prohibits such changes without consent.

4. Concern that asthetics of the area will become more like an urban environment rather than a rural setting.

Assessment Overview:

· The proposed outbuilding is intended for agricultural use, specifically for the storage of farm vehicles and tools, and carrying out of activities within the workshop associated with the agricultural use and would replace a pre-existing structure damaged by bushfires. It is not expected to change the area's character to resemble an urban environment or adversely affect the rural landscape.

· The development is strategically located away from ridgelines, in line with principles aimed at minimizing impacts on areas of significant scenic value.

· Clustering buildings in rural areas is generally encouraged for several reasons:

o It reduces the spread of development, preserving open space and maintaining the rural character and natural beauty of the area.

o It minimizes the need for additional roads and utility lines, reducing visual clutter.

o It facilitates more efficient operations by allowing centralized access to vehicles and equipment.

o It enhances safety and security, providing passive surveillance of the shed from the dwelling and improving bushfire protection.

· While aesthetic considerations are subjective, the proposed building's location is designed to minimize its visibility from neighboring dwellings. It will be obstructed by existing vegetation, and the orientation of views from the neighboring dwelling is primarily south, while the proposed building is situated to the southwest.

Assessment Conclusion:

No change to location or design of the proposed building be required. Development is considered suitable in its current proposed form.

5. Earthworks have already commenced for the proposed building.

Assessment Overview:

· Earthworks have commenced for the proposed building, involving cut of the site.

· The cut has exceeded the exempt development limit of 600mm, reaching approximately 1000 to 1200mm.

· 600mm high retaining walls are being constructed, which appear to meet exempt development requirements.

· The area above the retaining walls has been battered to prevent erosion.

· While commencing earthworks prior to obtaining consent is discouraged, this does not justify refusal of the proposed development.

· No issues with the conducted earthworks have been identified.

· The owner has provided a written explanation stating the need to address problems from a demolished fire-damaged shed.

· Implementation of sediment and erosion control measures is essential to prevent sediment-laden water from entering the creek.

· Existing grass coverage will help trap sediment, but additional control measures are necessary for effective protection.

Assessment Conclusion:

A standard condition requiring the implementation of sediment and erosion controls be applied and the owner/applicant to ensure immediate installation of these measures until vegetation cover is reestablished on disturbed areas.

Figure 7 - Earthworks undertaken

Financial

Nil identified.

OLG 23a Guideline consideration

Does not conflict with the Office of Local Government (OLG) 23a guidelines.

Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

23 September 2025

8.4.3 DA 2025/53 - Proposed Garaport - 26 Lawson Drive, Gundagai

DOCUMENT NUMBER

445953

REPORTING OFFICER

Lauren Dawes, Acting Manager Sustainable Development

AUTHORISING OFFICER

Roger Bailey, Interim General Manager

RELEVANCE TO COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN

2. A region for the future

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

There are no Policy implications associated with this report.

ATTACHMENTS

1. Draft Notice of Determination ⇩

2. DA Assessment Report ⇩

3. Proposed Garaport ⇩

Recommendation

That Council approve DA 2025/53 subject to conditions of consent as outlined in the accompanying Draft Notice of Determination and authorise minor amendments to correct any errors prior to issuing the final notice.

Introduction

The proposed development involves the construction of a detached garage with attached carport commonly referred to as a “garaport” and ancillary retaining walls at 26 Lawson Drive, Gundagai. The proposed building 12 meters long and 4 meters wide and is proposed to be clad with colorbond custom orb cladding.

The proposed building does not comply with Restriction on the Use of Land identified as 3(d) in the registered 88B Instrument imposed by Council at the time of subdivision. The Restrictions on the Use of Land were imposed by Council, as the owner and developer of the land at the time of subdivision. Given Council’s implementation of the Restriction the application is referred to Council for determination.

Discussion

Summary of Departure from Instrument

The proposed development does not meet the requirements of the Restriction on the Use of Land identified as 3(d), noting that external wall cladding is proposed to be colorbond cladding and not brick, stone, concrete, glass, timber or any combination of the same nor is it proposed to be clad with texture coated fibrous cement sheeting with a 160mm frame width and 80mm recessed windows.

Terms identified as (3)(d) within the 88B Instrument for Deposited Plan 1173450:

“(d) That no building shall be erected on the land with external walls or walls of materials other than brick, stone, concrete, glass, timber or any combination of the same PROVIDED THAT timber shall not be used in external walls referred except as in-fill in conjunction with all or any of the other materials above referred to and proportion of timber so used shall not exceed fifteen per cent (15%) thereof FURTHER PROPOVIDED THAT nothing in this covenant shall preclude or prohibit a building having an inner framework of its external walls constructed of timber or other materials with an external brick face. Texture coated fibrous cement sheeting may be used as external walls, provided that all sections of such building below any finished floor level re erected using brick, stone, concrete or any combination of the same, PROVIDED THAT the framework of any building constructed of timber or other materials with external walls as texture coated fibrous cement sheeting has frame width of at least 160mm and that any window inserted into such frame is recessed a minimum of 80mm from the external face of the cement sheeting.”

Implications of Clause 1.9A Suspension of covenants, agreements and instruments (Standard Instrument LEP)

In assessing development applications, consent authorities, are ordinarily not bound to enforce covenants and restrictions as to user applied under Section 88B of the Conveyancing Act 1919. The provisions of Clause 1.9A Suspension of covenants, agreements and instruments, contained within all standard instrument Local Environmental Plans (provided below for reference), details that such restrictions do not apply when assessing such applications, except in specific circumstances.

“1.9A Suspension of covenants, agreements and instruments (Standard Instrument LEP)

(1) For the purpose of enabling development on land in any zone to be carried out in accordance with this Plan or with a consent granted under the Act, any agreement, covenant or other similar instrument that restricts the carrying out of that development does not apply to the extent necessary to serve that purpose.

(2) This clause does not apply—

a) to a covenant imposed by the Council or that the Council requires to be imposed, or

b) to any relevant instrument within the meaning of section 13.4 of the Crown Land Management Act 2016, or

c) to any conservation agreement within the meaning of the National Parks and Wildlife Act 1974, or

d) to any Trust agreement within the meaning of the Nature Conservation Trust Act 2001, or

e) to any property vegetation plan within the meaning of the Native Vegetation Act 2003, or

f) to any biobanking agreement within the meaning of Part 7A of the Threatened Species Conservation Act 1995, or

g) to any planning agreement within the meaning of Subdivision 2 of Division 7.1 of the Act.

(3) This clause does not affect the rights or interests of any public authority under any registered instrument.

(4) Under section 3.16 of the Act, the Governor, before the making of this clause, approved of subclauses (1)–(3).”

The clause allows consent authorities to disregard covenants imposed by developers. Such covenants are typically implemented to maintain or enhance property values and the desirability of a subdivision by restricting factors such as dwelling density, building materials, and building sizes. However, these restrictions do not always align with the planning controls applicable to the land. The legislation empowers consent authorities to set aside these covenants in favor of development that complies with LEP and DCP provisions.

Noting that the subject 88B instrument was imposed by Council as the developer of the land, in accordance with subclause (2)(a), clause 1.9A does not apply to the subject development and it’s provisions cannot be used to set aside or suspend the covenant in order to facilitate development.

Legal Advice Obtained

Notwithstanding that Clause 1.9A cannot be used to suspend the covenant, legal advice obtained in February 2025 advises that while the clause does not permit the suspension or setting aside of the covenant, it also does not expressly require compliance with the instrument. Furthermore, no provisions within the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 (the Act) mandate compliance with the instrument or the Conveyancing Act 1919 as part of the development application assessment process.

However, in accordance with Section 4.15 Evaluation of the Act, consideration must still be given to whether approving a development that is inconsistent with the instrument is in the public interest.

Consideration of Public Interest

When assessing the public interest, it is necessary to consider the appropriateness of approving a development that does not comply with a Council-imposed 88B instrument. This instrument forms part of the contract of sale documents for land within the area and is therefore available to all landowners and any mortgagee.

No written record has been found detailing the reasons for imposing these restrictions. However, it is presumed that the intent was to establish a residential area with a high standard of aesthetic appeal, thereby maintaining property values. The restriction in question seeks to preclude certain building materials, which are generally more affordable and perceived as less visually appealing or of lower quality.

In determining whether approval of the proposed structure, contrary to the instrument, aligns with the public interest, it is important to consider any potential impact on the value or visual appeal of surrounding properties. In this case, there are several existing structures, primarily outbuildings, that do not comply with the restriction. Given this context, the proposed development is unlikely to cause any significant adverse impact on the public domain and is not regarded as contrary to the public interest.

Notably, the deviation from the instrument relates solely to building materials and aesthetics. It does not affect any easements traversing the property or the critical infrastructure contained within.

Conclusion

As the provisions of the Environmental Planning & Assessment Act 1979 do not mandate compliance with the instrument or the Conveyancing Act 1919 as part of the development application assessment process and noting assessment that approval of the development, including the departure from the 88B instrument, is not contrary to the public interest it is considered appropriate that the application be approved by council subject to conditions.

Financial

Nil

OLG 23a Guideline consideration

Does not conflict with Guidelines.

Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

23 September 2025

8.5 Engineering Cootamundra

8.5.1 Cootamundra Engineering Report - August 2025

DOCUMENT NUMBER

445608

REPORTING OFFICER

Shelley Liehr, 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

That the Cootamundra Engineering Report for the month of August 2025 be noted.

Introduction

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

Discussion

State Roads

Burley Griffin Way

Heavy Patching Program has been rescoped. Additional areas have been added to MR84 taken from MR78 to target accelerated deterioration.

The Heavy Patching Program is planned to start Monday 29 September and be completed by Friday 31 October. Planning for Resealing Program underway.

Olympic Highway

Heavy Patching areas have been reduced to facilitate additional areas required on MR84. Overall heavy patching areas remain the same. The Heavy Patching Program is planned to start Monday 15 September and be completed by Friday 26 September.

Planning for Resealing Program is underway. Council officers met with Boral during August to confirm heavy patching and resealing program sealing dates. Boral will be contacted to confirm change in heavy patching locations and associated forecast sealing days. Boral are now performing reseal areas sand testing and confirming pre-treatments. Minor Patching nearing completion in reseal areas. Shoulder edge tidy-up will be conducted during heavy patching to minimise costs.

General Works

Footpath Replacement

Crews have completed kerb works in Lawrence Street. Works are continuing in Hurley Street linking the footpath with the bridge works on Sutton Street, works will be completed by the end of September.

Maintenance Grading

The crews are out grading Bauloora Lane and gravel patching in the Yannawah area completing Sterling Road and moving onto West Berthong Road. Crews are moving through the Yannawah area gravel patching and maintenance grading. Internal roads within the Cootamundra Waste Facility have been maintained, along with installation of new pads for spoil stockpiling.

Patching Works

The patching crew have been on the highways and also moving through town streets completing patches on Poole Street and Parker Street.

Crew are busy with RMCC minor patching and moving through areas in town streets

Town Maintenance

Staff have been busy installing signs and undertaking small patching works around town and on regional roads.

Risk Management

Emergency Management plans for all Cootamundra facilities have been updated. Safety Audits have commenced for this year, staff to keep all areas clean and be prepared for an inspection at any time.

Road Safety

Local Traffic Forum

The first LTF meeting was conducted on Thursday 14 August. A report requesting endorsement of the 2025 Authorisation and Delegation Instrument has been prepared and included in the August Council Meeting agenda. Information for five on-road events was shared with TfNSW and NSW Police.

National Heavy Vehicle Regulator

Council have received and reviewed a total of 31 Access Permit Applications during the reporting period.

Approvals	Pre-Approvals	Approved with Conditions	Refusals
12	2	11	6

Refusals were issued for Access Permit Applications where vehicles were at a weight, width or length deemed unsafe for requested roads, and vehicle movements would be incompatible with existing infrastructure (bridges etc).

Traffic Counters

The tubes connected to one traffic counter located on Olympic Highway were damaged and the counter required reprogramming and reinstallation.

Community Awareness Campaigns

Community Awareness Campaigns promoted during August were Promote Rail Safety Week and Community Road Safety grant opportunities were investigated. Active Transport Community of Practice, Access and Inclusion Committee, the Local Transport Forum, Festival of Gundagai Planning. The Plan B flyer for the Snake Gully Cup is under review and contact with stakeholders has commenced.

Council staff completed VMS board training during August. Four VMS boards were deployed displaying local safety messages. Two boards have been strategically placed on Boundary Road and Berthong Road to alert road users of the upcoming intersection, and the remaining two boards have been positioned on Hovell Street, delivering targeted messages designed to reduce speeding through a mix of positive and negative reinforcement.

PAMP Updates

The updated PAMPs have been completed and forwarded to the respective managers for final review. These plans reflect the latest community feedback, current access audits, and align with the Council’s strategic transport objectives.

Water and Sewer

Maintenance crews have completed backfilling carried out at corner of Campbell and Sutton Streets. The area is ready for tar patching. Daily maintenance was carried out to Council’s water reservoirs and offtakes. Water meter re-reads were also undertaken by water and sewer staff to assist with quarterly water billing enquiries.

Trenching from installation of water main to solar farm had sunken due to rain. Crew has attended to and reinstated the area, topping up with topsoil. Three drains within the treatment plant were cleared, with three loads of soil removed during maintenance.

During the reporting period a total of 14 sewer chokes were cleared, six burst services repaired, seven hydrant risers were rebuilt and sewer mains treated after clearing blockages caused by tree roots. Repairs were carried out to 11 burst water mains, 10 leaking water meters and two new water connections were also installed. There were no complaints of dirty water received during the past month.

Workshop

HVIS – all vehicle inspections are completed, and all defects has been rectified and cleared.

Pink Slips – we are working on getting some of the inspections done without impacting the works program.

RFQ’s for various plant replacements have been assessed. The RFQ for replacement mowers has been finalised, staff have attended demonstrations of highest rated mowers to determine most suitable machine.

Financial

Projects funded from various funding sources, as noted above.

Maintenance works funded from the General Fund and aligns with the adopted 2025/2026 budget.

OLG 23a Guideline consideration

The work outlined in this report does not conflict with the guidelines.

Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

23 September 2025

8.7 Regional Services Gundagai

8.7.1 Gundagai Regional Services - August 2025

DOCUMENT NUMBER

445884

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

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

The Gundagai Regional Services August works report be received and noted.

Introduction

This report is a record of the diverse works Gundagai Regional Services have performed over the previous month along with the status of the ongoing works 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:

· The new scrubber has arrived and the doors on the shed have been altered to accommodate the scrubber.

· Cleanout of pool shed.

· Preparation for two new drinking fountains/bubblers with bottle fill outlet and dog drinking bowls to be installed.

· Cleaning & painting at the VIC precinct.

· Cleanup and housekeeping improvements to the Regional Services area at the depot.

· General maintenance of all parks, gardens, reserves, fields and playgrounds.

· Mulch has been installed in between the Toilet block & the VIC.

Carberry Park Amenities Block Lift & Change:

· Installation of the white translucent screening on the door has been completed.

· Lift & Change Facility signage has been installed.

· Handrails and screen frames have been completed with the screen inserts to be added once the painting of handrails and frames is completed.

Visitor Information Centre:

· The final touches are being completed at the VIC and Toilet Block in readiness for opening in September.

· The interior has had a deep clean in anticipation of being filled with all the wonderful stock that has been purchased to sell to our visitors.

· Display cabinets and furniture have been built in ready for stock to be added.

· Signage at the front of the VIC and the internal ‘Welcome to Gundagai’ signage has been completed.

· The Marbel Masterpiece has had the top removed and glass cleaned with a new Perspex top being fitted.

·

Fly screens, glass display cabinet doors, cameras and network bridging to allow for information Technology and communication connection with the Council office have been installed.

Gundagai Memorial Swimming Pool:

· The installation of the new waterline tiles to pools has been completed.

· New pumps have arrived for installation. Further investigation and repairs to filtration plant and building will take place in September.

· The CCTV pipe inspection camera has been used to investigate the pool pipelines from the balance tank to the pump shed to identify any potential damage to pipes.

· Pools emptied and cleaned ready for painting.

· The removal of redundant equipment and general cleanout of pump shed has been completed.

Stan Crowe Oval Cricket Nets:

· Works to replace the old cricket nets at Stan Crowe oval have continued with the new posts installed and the concrete base slab poured.

The work is a partnership between Council and the Gundagai Cricket Club to deliver new practice nets to meet the clubs demands into the future.

Cemeteries – North Gundagai Lawn & Monumental, South Gundagai, Tumblong, Coolac, Mount Adrah, Muttama, Adjungbilly, Nangus, Wagragobilly (Darbalara).

Cemetery work activities this month include:

· The annual Cemeteries and Crematoria NSW Activities Reporting has been completed and submitted.

· Five interments across the Gundagai Cemeteries have taken place.

· Our Regulatory officer has completed refresher training to ensure their knowledge of industry standards and Council obligations remains current and exceeds expectations, while continuing to provide families with the highest quality experience within the cemetery environment.

· Maintenance across all cemeteries is routinely conducted.

Biosecurity:

· Quarter 1 25-26 LLS RWC reports have been submitted.

· HR Pathway, Private Property, Council owned and managed lands, State owned and managed lands progress inspections have been completed as per out WAP targets.

Gundagai Public & Council Facilities income:

Gundagai RV Park Income August 2025

· 01/08/25 – 31/08/25 - Total Income $487.35

Gundagai Landfill/Transfer August 2025

· 01/08/25 – 31/08/25 - General Income $2,644.52

Gundagai Standpipe Income August 2025

2025/2026		Income GST Incl.	Number of Transactions	Previous Year Income

2025	July	$3,013.61	13	$2454.08
2025	August	$1,202.81	11	$1424.58
25/26	Totals	$4,216.42	23

Gundagai Saleyards Truck Wash August 2025

2025/2026		Income GST Incl.	Number of Transactions	Previous Year Income

2025	July	$3,518.05	34	$3945.32
2025	August	$3,254.40	32	$2968.02
25/26	Totals	$6,772	66

Compliance:

Compliance with the Companion Animals Act 1998 and the Local Government (General) Regulation 2021 – Reg 217(1)(f)

Companion Animal:

The Ranger has attended Safe Dog Handling training held at Coolamon Shire Council and conducted by Andrew Clark Canine Services. The feedback from Councils ranger is that it was an extremely well run, informative and enjoyable training program with the content very applicable to his role. This is vital training to keep our Rangers safe and up to date on best practices for dog handling in the field.

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

23 September 2025

8.8 Regional Services Cootamundra

8.8.1 Cootamundra Regional Services - August 2025

DOCUMENT NUMBER

445533

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 August 2025.

Discussion

Parks & Gardens

Parks and Gardens staff planted 40 new street trees in August. These plantings were to replacements due to removals and new plantings. These included several quality deciduous trees in Albert Park as succession planting due to some sizeable trees having deteriorated or fallen in the aftermath of storms and other weather events.

Cootamundra hosted this year’s Junior Rugby League Grand Finals. This event was held at Nicholson Park which was recently upgraded with drainage improvements and general maintenance. Parks staff ensured the venue was well presented for the day including line marking, mowing, additional amenities cleaning and general litter collection. The upgraded facilities are well suited to host large scale events for multiple sporting codes.

Cootamundra’s CBD and town gardens have been tidied with general maintenance being carried out. These gardens will re-mulched and tended to before the temperatures increase as we move further into spring.

Rectifying some lighting issues has been also on the agenda in the lead up to this year’s Wattle Time Festival of Lights held in early September. The works to the fairy lighting in Parker Street trees will be an ongoing project over the next 12 months to adapt the existing feature lighting to the growing trees throughout the CBD.

King George V Park at Stockinbingal has been refreshed with new timber edging being installed to contain the soft fall, as well as topping the soft fall areas up in line with Australian Standards.

Rose pruning was completed during August. Roses within Albert Park’s Gallipoli Rose Garden and cenotaph, Stockinbingal King George V Park, Heritage Centre, town roundabouts and the CBD roses were pruned by parks and gardens staff as well as being fertilised, sprayed and mulched to allow a great display of colour when blooms arrive.

Unfortunately, incidents of graffiti have increased throughout August, with damage caused to numerous Council assets and to private land. Areas most affected by this vandalism include spray painting of Jubilee Park toilet block as well as destruction of toilet seats and hand dryers. Clarke Oval was damaged by a large spray-painted piece on the back of a building, Nicholson Park’s toilet block and timekeepers’ box were also affected. There was also graffiti removed from the taxi rank, CBD urban canopies and drinking station. The vandalism was documented and reported to Police who have apprehended a suspect.

The Cedar and Elm trees that were growing along the airport fence line on Yass Road Lane were identified as Obstacle Limitation Surfaces during a recent inspection have now been removed. The trees were considered problematic due to their proximity to the runway and with consideration of the height of the trees, as they continue to grow, they could interfere with the approach or takeoff paths of an aircraft.

Staff have identified that the banner poles located near Repco and Éclairs are not functioning. The contractors who installed the poles have been contacted to attend the site to repair the poles, and lower the winch to make the process of changing banners safer and more efficient.

Cemeteries

There were 10 burials conducted at Cootamundra Lawn Cemetery for the month of August. One plaque was affixed and 2 interments of ashes taking place at Cootamundra.

Rabbit baiting has begun at Stockinbingal Cemetery as Council attempt to manage the rabbit population which is causing damage to the cemetery and surrounds.

Master Plan progress for Cootamundra cemetery is on the agenda for the coming months with discussions planned in relation to potential changes to the structure and development of the cemetery.

Ranger Services

General patrols have been carried out along with waste stations being refilled. Barking dog complaints have been attended resulting in staff providing homeowners and the pet owners tools to deal with these issues before enforcement action is required. Following this advice and education complaints have eased in high volume areas.

Animal Statistics	Dogs	Cats
Seized	13	2
Released to Owner	3	0
Surrendered	0	0
Rehomed	6	0
Euthanised	0	1
Waiting for Rehoming	4	1

Stray goats in the Poole Street area have been an issue for the past few months causing damage to residential properties and road hazards. This has now been rectified with the goats now being contained. A few reports of straying stock were received on local roads, and one on the Burley Griffen Way.

Facilities

The Cootamundra administration building has had insulation installed to the first-floor ceiling. This will provide a more stable, consistent temperature and will significantly reduce the energy consumption for heating and cooling.

Livvi’s Place repairs and maintenance have all been completed.

Work is continuing with installation of the new lining to either side of the 50m pool. The water level in the pool had significantly dropped over the past couple of months and has recently been drained to inspect the expansion joints. It appears there are some significant leaks along two expansion joints running lengthways inside the pool. A contractor is investigating this issue further with quotes being prepared for repairs.

The Heritage Centre front door was repaired to stop the door from the getting stuck on the door jamb. The camera that was no longer showing on the monitor has been repaired; all eight cameras are now working correctly.

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

A screenshot of a computer

AI-generated content may be incorrect.

Waste

The secondhand tip shop processed 81 transactions for August with a total of $609.22 in income. During this time staff have diverted 600kg of waste from the landfill into the shop to be repurposed.

A total of 114 tonnes of recycled crushed concrete was sold this month and a total of 56 tonnes of compost soil.

A Cootamundra garbage truck delivered a load of recycling to the Cootamundra Material Recovery Facility. Upon tipping the material out the driver noticed a small fire and was able to move the truck to safety and call the fire brigade. Due to the quick thinking of staff, minimal damage was caused. Council is currently investigating what options are on the market to install a smoke/fire detection device in the hoppers of the garbage trucks as garbage truck fires are becoming more and more common, typically due to the increase of lithium batteries in devices such as vapes, laptops and other small electrical devices. Investigations into ways to improve the capabilities of Council staff dealing with any future fires at the landfill. Whilst exploring these options, Council has been working with Elouera Recycling to advertise and educate the community about recycling and promoting that batteries or butane canisters are not acceptable to be placed in the recycling bins due the fire risks.

The internal roads within the Cootamundra landfill required some repairs and maintenance to be undertaken due to the recent rain and traffic movements. The roads have been graded and sealed in some areas which will not only help the roads last longer but will also help with dust suppression coming into the warmer seasons.

The green waste shredding has been completed with a total of 7,250m³ crushed and mulched to help break down into compost. Waste staff have been liaising with a fertilizer manufacturing company to investigate the opportunity to provide and sell large quantities of the compost at the Cootamundra landfill.

Capital Works Projects

The Muttama Creek physical work has been completed with only a few track m arks that need to be levelled out. The draft Master Plan is out for community consultation until the end of September. The consultants are finalising the Review of Environmental Factors report, the flood assessment report and a high-level bill of quantities and cost estimates.

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 Ordinary Meeting of Council held on Tuesday 26 August 2025

REPORTING OFFICER	Kylie Grybaitis, Road Safety Officer
AUTHORISING OFFICER	Trevor Dando, Acting Deputy General Manager Operations
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 Cootamundra-Gundagai Local Traffic Committee Meeting held on Thursday 14 August 2025

DOCUMENT NUMBER	444868
AUTHORISING OFFICER	Abb McAlister, Mayor
REPORTING OFFICER	Abb McAlister, Mayor
ATTACHMENTS	Nil

DOCUMENT NUMBER	445827
AUTHORISING OFFICER	Abb McAlister, Mayor
REPORTING OFFICER	Abb McAlister, Mayor
ATTACHMENTS	Nil