Ordinary Council Meeting Minutes

23 September 2025

MINUTES OF Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council
Ordinary Council Meeting
HELD AT THE Council Chambers, Gundagai
ON Tuesday, 23 September 2025 AT 6:00PM

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

IN ATTENDANCE: Roger Bailey (Interim General Manager), Damian Smith (Acting Manager Finance), Linda Wiles (Manager Business), Teresa Breslin (Executive Assistant)

2 Open Forum

Nil

3 Apologies and Leave of Absence

3.1 Apologies

Apology

Resolution 151/2025

Moved: Cr Penny Nicholson

Seconded: Cr David Graham

That the apology received from Cr Collins be accepted and leave of absence granted.

Carried

3.2 Leave of Absence

Nil

4 Disclosures of Interest

Disclosures of Interest

Resolution 152/2025

Moved: Cr Les Cooper

Seconded: Cr David Graham

That Council note Cr Graham’s less than significate non-pecuniary interest pertaining to item 8.4.1. Cr Graham is a member of the St Patrick’s Catholic Church Finance Committee.

Carried

5 Confirmation of Minutes

5.1 Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting of Council held on Tuesday 26 August 2025

Resolution 153/2025

Moved: Cr David Graham

Seconded: Cr Penny Nicholson

That the Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting of Council held on Tuesday 26 August 2025 be confirmed as a true and correct record of the meeting.

Carried

5.2 Minutes of the Cootamundra-Gundagai Local Traffic Committee Meeting held on Thursday 14 August 2025

Resolution 154/2025

Moved: Cr Abb McAlister

Seconded: Cr David Graham

1. That the Minutes of the Cootamundra-Gundagai Local Traffic Committee Meeting held on Thursday 14 August 2025, attached to the report, be received and noted.

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

2.1. 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.

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

2.3. 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.

2.4. 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;

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.

2.5. 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

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

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

Carried

6 Mayoral Minutes

6.1 Mayoral Minute - Councillor Engagement

Resolution 155/2025

Moved: Cr Gil Kelly

Seconded: Cr Penny Nicholson

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

Carried

6.2 Mayoral Minute - Joint Advocacy - Community Benefit Sharing Payments - Transgrid Power Lines

Resolution 156/2025

Moved: Cr David Graham

Seconded: Cr Les Cooper

That Council:

1. Formally write to the Australian Energy Regulator (AER), Chair Clare Savage and CEO Anthea Harris requesting a meeting with all five Mayors of Snowy Valleys Council, Upper Lachlan Shire Council, Yass Valley Council, Wagga Wagga City Council, and Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council regarding the AER's immediate consideration and support to require or facilitate Transgrid's agreement to community benefit-sharing payments, with payments commencing in 2027 at the completion of the Humelink Project.

2. Advocate jointly with Upper Lachlan Shire Council, Yass Valley Council, Wagga Wagga City Council, and Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council to Transgrid and the NSW Government for establishment of an annual payment of $10,000 per kilometre indexed for the lifetime of the transmission lines.

3. Thank Minister Sharpe, Energy Commissioner Tony Mahar and Transgrid CEO Brett Redman for past meetings with the host councils and seek their ongoing support in advocating for fair and meaningful benefit-sharing arrangements for host communities. Council and communities are giving the cities power security while the amenity of the regions is being adversely affected for decades.

Carried

7 Reports from Committees

Listed at item 5.2

8 General Manager’s Report

8.1 General Manager Office

8.1.1 Establishment of a Demerger Transition Committee

Resolution 157/2025

Moved: Cr Les Cooper

Seconded: Cr David Graham

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 with the addition of ‘fairly’ under 1. Purpose.

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.

Carried

8.1.2 ALGA 2025 National Local Roads and Transport Congress 11-12 November 2025

Resolution 158/2025

Moved: Cr David Graham

Seconded: Cr Les Cooper

The attendance of Cr Cooper and one (1) appropriate staff member, at the Australian Local Government Association 2025 National Local Roads and Transport Congress from 11-12 November 2025, be endorsed.

Carried

8.1.3 Country Mayors Association Meeting Minutes 8 August 2025

Resolution 159/2025

Moved: Cr David Graham

Seconded: Cr Penny Nicholson

The Minutes of the Country Mayors Association Meetings held on 8 August 2025, attached to the report, be received and noted.

Carried

8.2 Business

8.2.1 Bradman Birthplace s.355 Committee AGM Meeting Minutes, Membership and Chairman's Report

Resolution 160/2025

Moved: Cr David Graham

Seconded: Cr Les Cooper

1. The Minutes, Treasurers Report and Chairman’s report of the Bradman Birthplace s.355 Committee Annual General Meeting (AGM) held on 11 August 2025, attached to the report, be received and noted.

2. The office bearers and membership of the Bradman Birthplace s.355 Committee as detailed in the report, be endorsed.

Carried

8.2.2 Muttama Creek Regeneration Group s.355 Committee Meeting Minutes

Resolution 161/2025

Moved: Cr David Graham

Seconded: Cr Les Cooper

The Minutes of the Muttama Creek Regeneration Group s.355 Committee meeting held, 4 August 2025, attached to the report be, received and noted.

Carried

8.2.3 The Arts Centre Cootamundra s.355 Committee Meeting Minutes

Resolution 162/2025

Moved: Cr David Graham

Seconded: Cr Les Cooper

1. The Minutes of The Arts Centre Cootamundra s.355 Committee Meeting held, 21 August 2025, attached to the report, be received and noted.

2. That Denise Price be endorsed as a Committee Member of The Arts Centre Cootamundra.

Carried

8.2.4 Muttama Hall Management s.355 Committee Meeting Minutes

Resolution 163/2025

Moved: Cr David Graham

Seconded: Cr Les Cooper

1. The Minutes of the Muttama Hall Management s.355 Committee Ordinary Meetings held, 13 August 2025, attached to the report, be received and noted.

2. That Council notes the resignations of Anne Last and Hilary Connors from the Muttama Hall Management s.355 Committee and writes letter of thanks to them recognising their contribution on the Committee.

Carried

8.3 Finance

8.3.1 Finance Update - August 2025

Resolution 164/2025

Moved: Cr David Graham

Seconded: Cr Penny Nicholson

That the Finance Update report, be received and noted.

Carried

8.3.2 Restricted Cash Reconciliation - August 2025

Resolution 165/2025

Moved: Cr David Graham

Seconded: Cr Penny Nicholson

The Restricted Cash Reconciliation report, be received and noted.

Carried

8.3.3 Investment Report - August 2025

Resolution 166/2025

Moved: Cr David Graham

Seconded: Cr Penny Nicholson

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

Carried

8.4 Sustainable Development

8.4.1 Local Heritage Grant Funding Allocation

Resolution 167/2025

Moved: Cr Penny Nicholson

Seconded: Cr Les Cooper

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.

Carried

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

Resolution 168/2025

Moved: Cr Les Cooper

Seconded: Cr Penny Nicholson

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.

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

Carried

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

Resolution 169/2025

Moved: Cr Les Cooper

Seconded: Cr David Graham

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.

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

Carried

8.5 Engineering Cootamundra

8.5.1 Cootamundra Engineering Report - August 2025

Resolution 170/2025

Moved: Cr David Graham

Seconded: Cr Les Cooper

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

Carried

8.6 Engineering Gundagai

8.6.1 Gundagai Engineering Report - August 2025

Resolution 171/2025

Moved: Cr Penny Nicholson

Seconded: Cr Les Cooper

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

Carried

8.7 Regional Services Gundagai

8.7.1 Gundagai Regional Services - August 2025

Resolution 172/2025

Moved: Cr Penny Nicholson

Seconded: Cr Les Cooper

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

Carried

8.8 Regional Services Cootamundra

8.8.1 Cootamundra Regional Services - August 2025

Resolution 173/2025

Moved: Cr David Graham

Seconded: Cr Les Cooper

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

Nil

11 Confidential Items

11.1 Closed Council Report

Resolution 174/2025

Moved: Cr Les Cooper

Seconded: Cr Penny Nicholson

1. Council entered Closed Council at 6:42pm.

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 175/2025

Moved: Cr David Graham

Seconded: Cr Penny Nicholson

That the information in the Human Resources Report be noted.

Carried

11.3 Acquisition of dogonthetuckerbox.com.domain

Resolution 176/2025

Moved: Cr Les Cooper

Seconded: Cr Penny Nicholson

That:

1. Council offers the sale of the domain dogonthetuckerbox.com.au, at a cost outlined in the financial section of the report, to the developer.

2. Council delegate the authority to the Interim General Manager to negotiate the sale of the domain name.

3. Funds from the sale are gifted to the Gundagai Hospital Auxiliary.

Carried

Resumption of Open Council Meeting

Resolution 177/2025

Moved: Cr David Graham

Seconded: Cr Penny Nicholson

That the Open Council meeting resume at 6.55pm.

Carried

Announcement of Closed Council Resolutions

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

The Meeting closed at 6:57pm.


CHAIRPERSON	GENERAL MANAGER

Minutes

MINUTES OF Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council
Extraordinary Council Meeting
HELD AT THE Alby Schultz Meeting Centre, Cootamundra
ON Tuesday, 14 October 2025 AT 6:01pm

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

IN ATTENDANCE: Roger Bailey (Interim General Manager), Linda Wiles (Manager Business) (online),

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 Open Forum

Nil

3 Apologies and Leave of Absence

3.1 Apologies

Apology

Nil

It is noted that Cr Graham attempted to join the meeting remotely but was unable to do so.

3.2 Leave of Absence

Nil

4 Disclosures of Interest

Nil

5 General Manager’s Report

5.1 General Manager Office

5.1.1 Establishment of a Demerger Transition Committee

Motion

Moved: Cr Rosalind Wight

Seconded: Cr Penny Nicholson

That Council:

1. Note that resolution 157/2025, September 2025 ‘Establishment of a Demerger Transition Committee’ is considered unlawful.

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

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

4. 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 Committee members present at the time of the meeting.

5. Appoint the Mayor (Cr McAlister) and Councillors Wight, Nicholson, Graham, Kelly, and Ryan to the Committee.

6. Authorise Councillors McAlister, Nicholson and Graham to select and appoint a resident of the proposed Gundagai local government area to the Committee.

7. Authorise Councillors Wight, Kelly and Ryan to select and appoint a resident of the proposed Cootamundra local government area to the Committee.

8. Note that, unless a vacancy occurs, there will be no alternate representatives appointed for councillors and community representatives.

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

Amendment

Moved: Cr Gil Kelly

Seconded: Cr Ethan Ryan

That the meeting be deferred to allow further consideration of the proposal.

On being PUT the Motion was LOST

The Chairperson then put the ORIGINAL Motion, on being PUT the ORIGINAL Motion was LOST.

Resolution 186/2025

Moved: Cr Les Cooper

Seconded: Cr Logan Collins

That Council:

1. Note that resolution 157/2025, September 2025 ‘Establishment of a Demerger Transition Committee’ is considered unlawful.

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

3. Approve the draft Terms of Reference for the Committee subject to the following points being incorporated into the Terms.

· Clarification of matters listed in Section 377 of the NSW Local Government Act

· The role of the Committee is to make recommendations to the full Council for decision by the full Council

· Remove wording to an absolute majority

4. Appoint the Mayor (Cr McAlister) and Councillors Wight, Nicholson, Graham, Kelly, and Ryan to the Committee.

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

Carried

The Meeting closed at 6.55pm.


CHAIRPERSON	GENERAL MANAGER

Access and Inclusion Committee Meeting Minutes

10 September 2025

MINUTES OF Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council
Access and Inclusion Committee Meeting
HELD ON wEDNESDAY 10^TH SEPTEMBER 2025 commencing 3PM.

1. Welcome to country – Councillor Logan Collins

PRESENT:

Councillor Logan Collins, Destini Hardy - CGRC Youth and Inclusion Officer, Lauren Dawes - CGRC Acting Manager Development Building Compliance, David Brodie - Acting Manager Engineering Cootamundra

Maree Piffero, Lisa Collingridge, Denise Clune, Cate Minogue, Bonita Taylor, Cassie Malone.

2. Apologies

Kylie Grybaitis – CGRC Road Safety Officer, Paula Millar.

meeting open 3:05pm

3. Confirmation of Minutes

3.1 Minutes of the Access and Inclusion Committee Meeting held on WEDNESDAY 6^TH AUGUST 2025 3PM.

Committee Resolution

Moved: Denise Clune

Seconded: Maree Piffero

The Minutes of the Access and Inclusion Committee Meeting held on 6 August 2025, 3pm be confirmed as a true and correct record of the meeting.

Carried

4. AUGUST 2025 SUSTAINABILITY DEVELOPMENT REPORT

Acting Manager Development Building Compliance advised no commercial applications were approved for August 2025.

5. MOBILITY PLAN

Acting Manager Development Building Compliance gave a presentation on considerations for developing a Mobility Map. A Mobility Map is designed to assist people with a range of abilities navigate towns in the easiest way possible.

Options for PDF version (can be printed ); Online mapping tool; and App based (enaccess) online and app version, were discussed.

Further debate including budget options. The committee could pursue as a standalone committee or seek interest for partnership with adjoining councils through REROC.

PDF and App Based were preferred by committee members, PDF would be printable and could be put on CGRC and Visitor Information Centre websites.

Committee members agreed to review three options provided and bring their thoughts to the next meeting.

MOTION -

CARRY ITEM OVER TO NEXT MEETING

6. DISABILITY AND INCLUSION ACTION PLAN

Council resolved at the meeting held on Tuesday 26 August 2025;

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.

The Disability Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP) remains on public exhibition with submissions closing 5pm Friday 29 September 2025.

7. MORE ACCESSIBLE PARKING/ MORE TIMED ZONES THROUGH OUT COOTAMUNDRA CBD

Increased traffic to established business and services in Wallendoon Street, Cootamundra has resulted in a lack of short term parking for community members. Could a number of timed zones or 2 hour parking be implemented?

Acting Manager Engineering Cootamundra voiced concerns for the lack of private car parking which could lead to issues with employee parking in the area. Police would need to monitor the time restrictions. Could a section of timed parking or one block be implemented? Does this cause additional concerns?

MOTION –

COUNCIL INVESTIGATE THE POSSIBILITY OF TIMED PARKING ZONES (15MIN/2 HOURS) ENCORPORATING NECESSARY COMMUNITY, BUSINESS AND LOCAL TRAFFIC FORUM CONSULTATION.

8. LACK OF SECURE FENCING AROUND THE CHILDREN’S PLAY AREA IN CARBERRY PARK, GUNDAGAI

Concern was raised in relation to the lack of secure fencing around the play area in Carberry Park via community submission.

This issue poses significant health and safety risks to the children in our community; visiting families and in particular, for children with disabilities such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

As a community members and parent who is closely connected with families of children living with disabilities, we must urge council to consider how this issue impacts inclusivity, safety, and access to public spaces. While CGRC Disability Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP) outlines goals to improve accessibility and inclusive infrastructure, the absence of secure fencing contradicts these objectives in a critical way.

Key Concerns:

1. Safety Risks for Neurodivergent Children

Children with autism and ADHD often experience difficulties with impulse control, risk awareness, and sensory regulation. Unfenced playgrounds near roads, waterways, or open bushland increase the risk of a child wandering off, which can result in serious injury or trauma. Carberry Park is located in the main street of Gundagai with high volumes of traffic. This is not a hypothetical risk — it is a well-documented safety concern in both disability and health literature.

2. Exclusion from Community Spaces
Without secure fencing, many families with neurodivergent children avoid local parks altogether, missing out on valuable play, exercise, and social connection opportunities. This contributes to social isolation and unequal access to community infrastructure — a direct contradiction of the council's commitment to inclusion.

3. Equity in Design
An inclusive and accessible park must account for invisible disabilities, not just physical access like ramps and pathways. The addition of secure fencing is a low-cost, high-impact modification that would vastly improve usability and safety for a broader segment of the community.

4. Alignment with Disability Standards
The Australian Government’s National Disability Strategy and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities emphasize the right to safe, accessible, and inclusive public spaces. A fenced playground aligns with these rights and with the spirit of the council’s DIAP.

Recommendations:

1. Install secure perimeter fencing with child-safe gates at Carberry Park as a priority action.

2. Treat this upgrade as an urgent health and safety issue, not a long-term infrastructure goal. The lack of fencing presents a clear and immediate risk and should be addressed in the immediate future.

3. Consult with local families and disability advocates during the redesign process.

4. Include fencing as a standard requirement in all future playground or park upgrades, especially those referenced in the DIAP.

5. Provide an updated timeline and accountability process on how this issue will be reviewed and addressed.

MOTION –

1. CONCERNS RAISED AND ESCALATED TO COUNCIL’S ATTENTION

2. DEFER ITEM TO NEXT MEETING WHERE ACTING MANAGER REGIONAL SERVICES GUNDAGAI CAN PROVIDE ADVICE

3. ACTION – YOUTH AND INCLUSION OFFICER TO INVITE MANAGER TO NEXT MEETING TO PROVIDE ADVICE.

9. INADEQUATE GUTTER RAMPS AND FOOTPATH ACCESS ON THE MAIN STREET

Many sections of the main street lack appropriate curb cuts and gutter ramps, making it extremely difficult for wheelchair and scooter users to move safely and independently between footpaths and road crossings. Navigating such environments without proper infrastructure is not only inconvenient, but also hazardous.

For individuals with limited mobility, a lack of smooth, ramped access can result in social isolation, reduced participation in local commerce, and compromised safety. Creating more accessible transitions at street corners and intersections would significantly improve mobility and independence.

MOTION -

1. CONCERNS RAISED AND ESCALATED TO COUNCIL’S ATTENTION

2. DEFER ITEM TO NEXT MEETING WHERE MANAGER RESPONSIBLE CAN PROVIDE ADVICE

10. LIMITED ACCESSIBILITY IN LOCAL BUSINESSES AND LACK OF DISABLED TOILETS

Several local dining establishments are either completely inaccessible to wheelchair users or offer limited access due to narrow doorways, stairs, or tightly spaced seating. In addition, many of these venues do not provide disabled toilet facilities, which further excludes individuals with mobility challenges from dining out and engaging socially.

Access to public spaces, including eateries, should not be a privilege. Encouraging local businesses to become more inclusive through incentives or support programs would benefit both the disabled community and local commerce.

Council does not have capacity to enforce accessibility on businesses.

Are Grants available for business owners to install accessible upgrades? Acting Manager Development Building Compliance will confer with CGRC Grants Officer to highlight if grants become available.

MOTION -

1. RESOLUTION CONCERNS RAISED AND ESCALATED TO COUNCIL’S ATTENTION

2. URGE COUNCIL TO CONTINUE TO EDUCATE SHOP OWNERS AND ENCOURAGE VOLUNTARY UPGRADES

3. GRANTS OFFICER TO KEEP AN EYE OUT FOR POSSIBLE GRANTS.

11. INSUFFICIENT DISABLED PARKING SPACES – GUNDAGAI

The availability of designated disabled parking in the main street of Gundagai is critically low.

Individuals with disabilities often require parking that is close to entrances and wide enough to accommodate mobility aids such as wheelchairs or walkers. Without sufficient accessible parking, many people are left unable to shop, attend appointments, or participate in community life.

Expanding the number of disabled parking bays and ensuring they meet proper accessibility standards is a straightforward yet vital improvement.

Recommendation to Council – Council Investigate the possibility of timed parking zones (15min/2 hours) – Consultation with public, Business owners and Local Traffic Forum.

12. ABSENCE OF PEDESTRIAN CROSSINGS ON THE MAIN STREET – GUNDAGAI

The lack of pedestrian crossings in the main street not only affects the general safety of all pedestrians but is particularly dangerous for those with mobility or visual impairments. Safe, clearly marked crossings — ideally with tactile paving and audio signals — are essential for promoting independence and confidence among disabled individuals. Their absence sends a signal that accessibility and pedestrian safety are not being prioritized.

MOTION –

1. MOTION - CONCERNS RAISED AND ESCALATED TO COUNCIL’S ATTENTION

2. DEFER ITEM TO THE LOCAL TRAFFIC FORUM

13. LIMITED SEATED AREAS IN LOCAL PARKS COOTAMUNDRA AND GUNDAGAI

There is a noticeable shortage of benches and resting places in local parks. For individuals with disabilities or reduced stamina, having access to seating is crucial for enjoying outdoor spaces, socialising, or simply resting during a walk. Accessible, well-placed seating also promotes inclusion for elderly residents, carers, and people recovering from illness or injury. Adding more benches, particularly in shaded and scenic areas, would significantly enhance park usability for all.

MOTION -

1. CONCERNS RAISED AND ESCALATED TO COUNCIL’S ATTENTION

2. DEFER ITEM TO NEXT MEETING WHERE THE MANAGER RESPONSIBLE CAN PROVIDE ADVICE

14. NO WHEELCHAIR OR SCOOTER ACCESS TO THE RACECOURSE AND SHOWGROUNDS

Community facilities such as the racecourse and showgrounds should be welcoming and inclusive to all residents. At present, these venues are largely inaccessible to people using wheelchairs or scooters, effectively excluding a significant portion of the population from attending local events and celebrations. This exclusion is deeply disheartening and limits opportunities for social inclusion and community engagement.

Ensuring major event spaces are accessible is a fundamental step in building an inclusive and respectful community.

Need to confirm who owns Racecourse/Showgrounds.

There is a car ramp and goes to the common. The car ramp is gap too far so doesn’t allow gofers or wheelchairs to get through. Raised – Pedestrian gate access inwards.

MOTION –

1. PROVIDE FEEDBACK TO ACTING MANAGER REGIONAL SERVICES GUNDAGAI.

2. INVITE ACTING MANAGER TO ADVICE TO THE NEXT MEETING.

*It is noted that Cate Minogue will be an apology for next meeting.

Next meeting to be held at 3pm Wednesday 8^th October 2025 at Cootamundra Alby Schultz Room, Gundagai Council Chambers and via Teams.

Meeting Closed 3:57pm.

................................................... ...................................................

CHAIRPERSON GENERAL MANAGER

Access and Inclusion Committee Meeting Minutes 19 August 2021

MINUTES OF COOTAMUNDRA-GUNDAGAI REGIONAL COUNCIL

ACCESS AND INCLUSION COMMITTEE MEETING

HELD ON WEDNESDAY 8 OCTOBER 2025 COMMENCING 3PM.

1. Welcome to country – Councillor Logan Collins

PRESENT:

Councillor Logan Collins, Bianca Berkrey - CGRC Youth and Inclusion Officer, Lauren Dawes - CGRC Acting Manager Development Building Compliance, David Brodie - Acting Manager Engineering Cootamundra, Kylie Grybaitis – CGRC Road Safety Officer.

Lisa Collingridge, , Cate Minogue, Bonita Taylor, Cassie Malone, Paula Miller

2. APOLOGIES

Denise Clune, Marie Piffero

3. CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES

3.1 Minutes of the Access and Inclusion Committee Meeting held on WEDNESDAY 10^th september 2025 3PM.

Committee Resolution

Moved: Elouera School

Seconded: Paula Miller

The Minutes of the Access and Inclusion Committee Meeting held on 10 September 2025, 3pm be confirmed as a true and correct record of the meeting.

Carried

4. SEPTEMBER 2025 SUSTAINABILITY DEVELOPMENT REPORT

Acting Manager Development Building Compliance advise no commercial applications were approved for August 2025.

5. MOBILITY MAP PLAN

Options have been distributed to committee members with no feedback received to date. Item will be discussed at the next meeting.

6. MORE ACCESSIBLE PARKING/ TIMED ZONES THROUGHOUT COOTAMUNDRA CBD .

Three disabled parking spaces are scheduled to be line marked in the Cootamundra CBD adjacent to Sureway, IGA and JMA Legal. A report requesting an additional space adjacent to the Outback Bakery /disabled toilet area will be reported to the Local Traffic Forum.

The Pedestrian Access Management Plan (PAMPS) will be reported to the October Meeting of Council, following extensive community consultation.

Consultation requested additional timed parking around CBD for high traffic, essential services such as Chemists.

7. LACK OF SECURE FENCING AROUND THE CHILDREN’S PLAY AREA IN CARBERRY PARK, GUNDAGAI

Enforcing more fencing in parks can significantly influence its culture, usage patterns, and maintenance in both positive and negative ways. Implementation of new maintenance programs with Parks and Gardens staff would need to be addresses.

Further discussion and research is required. This item is being carried over to the next meeting.

8. INADEQUATE GUTTER RAMPS AND FOOTPATH ACCESS ON THE MAIN STREET

The Pedestrian Access Management Plan (PAMPS) will be reported to the October Meeting of Council, following extensive community consultation. The Plan will be on public exhibition for 28 days. If no submissions are received the Plan will be endorsed at the completion of the exhibition period.

Elouera have requested confirmation on Australian Standards for disability ramps.

Elouera staff have highlighted the need for lifted seating throughout the town. Elouera will provide feedback on potential locations and users.

Potential to place seating next to Earn And Return station near Woolworths. Who owns this land.

Items to be discussed at a future meeting.

9. LACK OF PUBLIC TRANSPORT IN COOTAMUNDRA AND GUNDAGAI

The committee established a survey for distribution to the community, seeking input from residents on their needs and priorities regarding access and inclusion.

Ensure appropriate service information is provided for people with a disability.

CGRC Access and Inclusion Committee seek possible partnerships with adjoining councils ensure accessibility to regional hubs and services.

CGRC Road Safety Officer will investigate and provide feedback on how to obtain support from TFNSW for Accessibility Services

Council provide TFNSW statistics.

10. LIMITED SEATING AREAS IN LOCAL PARKS COOTA/GUNDAGAI .

Youth and inclusion Officer to develop a list of possible seating locations in Gundagai and Cootamundra Parks and distributed to Regional Services Managers for consideration.

Next meeting to be held at 3pm Wednesday 12^th November 2025 at Cootamundra Alby Schultz Room, Gundagai Council Chambers and via Teams.

................................................... ...................................................

CHAIRPERSON GENERAL MANAGER

Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

28 October 2025

8.2 Business

8.2.1 Draft Code of Meeting Practice 2025

DOCUMENT NUMBER

446586

REPORTING OFFICER

Anne Chamberlain, Governance Officer

AUTHORISING OFFICER

Linda Wiles, Manager Business

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 360 and 361 of the Loal Government Act 1993.

POLICY IMPLICATIONS

Code of Meeting Practice to be in accordance with the Model Meeting Code prescribed by the Office of Local Government.

ATTACHMENTS

1. Draft CGRC Code of Meeting Practice 2025 ⇩

2. The Model Code of Meeting Practice prepared by the OLG ⇩

3. The OLG Frequently Asked Questions ⇩

Recommendation

That:

1. Council endorses, for the purpose of public exhibition, the Draft Code of Meeting Practice 2025, which included both mandatory and non-mandatory provisions, consistent with the Office of Local Government’s Model Code of Meeting Practice and ‘supplementary provisions as outlined in this report.

2. The Draft Code of Meeting Practice, attached to the report be placed on Public Exhibition for 28 days and allow a period of 42 days for submissions to be received.

3. Council hold a Councillor Workshop to explore the changes to the Code.

4. Following the public exhibition period, the Draft Code of Meeting Practice, together with a report on any submissions received and any proposed amendments, be considered at the Council meeting to be held 9 December 2025.

Introduction

The NSW Office of Local Government released a new Model Code of Meeting Practice for Local Councils in NSW (2025 Model Meeting Code) on Friday, 29 August 2025, (NSW OLG Circular 25-20). The new 2025 Model Meeting Code has been published in the Government Gazette and is expected to be prescribed under the Local Government (General) Regulations 2021 (the Regulation) shortly.

The new Model Code of Meeting Practice comprises mandatory and non-mandatory provision.

Council must adopt the new Mode Code of Meeting Practice that incorporates the mandatory provisions of the 2025 Model Meeting Code no later than 31 December 2025.

Under section 361 of the Local Government Act 1993 (the Act), before adopting the new code of meeting practice, councils must first exhibit the draft of the Code of Meeting Practice for at least 28 days and provide members of the community at least 42 days in which to comment on the draft code.

This report recommends that the Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council Draft Code of Meeting Practice which has been developed with regards to the new Model Code, be adopted for community consultation and that a further report addressing any submissions received and any proposed amendments to the Draft Code, be received by Council following the consultation period.

The new Draft code of Meeting Practice 2025 contains different coloured text to highlight the distinction between mandatory provision (black text) non-mandatory provisions (red text) and supplementary provisions (green text).

Discussion

The 2025 Model Meeting Code proposed a significant number of changes. A key focus of the changes made is to ensure meetings are conducted in a dignified and orderly way befitting to a chamber of democracy and to promote community confidence in councils and their decisions.

Mandatory Provisions

The following is a summary of the major changes to the 2025 Model Meeting Code noting that they are all ‘mandatory provisions’ that cannot be altered (mandatory provisions are identified as black text in the Draft Code of Meeting Practice).

Prohibition on pre-meeting briefing sessions

· The 2025 Model Meeting Code prohibits briefing sessions being held to brief councillors on business listed on the agenda for meetings of the council or committees of the council.

· The prohibition on briefing sessions does not prevent a councillor from requesting information from the general manager about a matter to be considered at a meeting, provided the information is also available to the public. The information must be provided in a way that does not involve any discussions of the information.

Public forums

· The Public forum provisions are now mandatory but leave it to councils to determine whether to hold public forums before council and committee meetings.

· Councils are also free to determine the rules under which public forums are to be conducted and when they are to be held. OLG will be issuing model best practice public forum rules that councils can us if they choose to.

· Public forums must be livestreamed.

Dealing with disorder

· Councils will be required to determine on the adoption of the new code and at the commencement of each council term, whether to authorise the person presiding at a meeting to exercise a power of expulsion.

· The definition of acts of disorder by councillors have changed. The following constitute acts of disorder under the Regulation and the 2025 Model Meeting Code:

o contravening the Act, the Regulation, or the council’s code of meeting practice,

o assaulting, or threatening to assault, another councillor or person present at the meeting,

o moving or attempting to move a motion or an amendment that has an unlawful purpose, or deals with a matter that is outside the jurisdiction of the council or committee or addressing or attempting to address the council or committee on or such a motion, amendment or matter,

o using offensive or disorderly words,

o making gestures or otherwise behaving in a way that is sexist, racist, homophobic or otherwise discriminatory, or if the behaviour occurred in the Legislative Assembly, would be considered disorderly,

o imputing improper motives, or unfavourably personally reflecting, on another council official or a person present at the meeting, or

o saying or doing anything that would promote disorder at the meeting or is otherwise inconsistent with maintaining order at the meeting.

· Where a councillor fails to remedy an act of disorder at the meeting at which it occurs, they can be required to do so at each subsequent meeting until they remedy the act of disorder. On each occasion the councillor fails to comply with a direction by the chairperson to remedy an act of disorder, they can be expelled from the meeting and each subsequent meeting until they comply.

· Members of the public can be expelled from meetings for engaging in disorderly conduct. Disorderly conduct includes:

o speaking at meetings without being invited to, o bringing flags, signs or protest symbols to meetings,

o disrupting meetings,

o making unauthorised recordings of meetings.

· The 2025 Model Meeting Code notes that failure by a councillor or members of the public to leave a meeting when expelled is an offence under section 660 of the Act. Section 660 provides that a person who wilfully obstructs a council, councillor, employee of a council or a duly authorised person in the exercise of any function under the Act, or Regulation is guilty of an offence. An offence under section 660 carries a maximum fine of $2,100.

Councillors’ attendance at meetings by audio-visual link

· The provisions governing attendance by councillors at meetings by audio-visual link have been made mandatory and the option to attend meetings by audio-visual link has been restricted to where councillors are prevented from attending a meeting in person because of ill-health or other medical reasons or because of unforeseen caring responsibilities.

New rules of etiquette at meetings

· Councils may determine standards of dress for councillors when attending meetings.

· Where physically able to, councillors and staff are encouraged to stand when the mayor enters the chamber and when addressing the meeting.

· The 2025 Model Meeting Code prescribes modes of address.

Making information considered at closed meetings public

· Consistent with ICAC’s recommendation, the general manager must publish business papers for items of business considered during meetings that have been closed to public on the council’s website as soon as practicable after the information contained in the business papers ceases to be confidential.

· Before publishing this information, the general manager must consult with the council and any other affected persons and provide reasons for why the information has ceased to be confidential.

Non-mandatory Provisions

The following is a summary of the major changes, noting they are all ‘non-mandatory provisions’ (non-mandatory provisions are identified as red text in the draft Code of Meeting Practice) that can be altered, however it is recommended they be incorporated into the new Model Code.

Power of Expulsion

· On the adoption of the Code and the commencement of each council term, the council must determine whether to authorise the person presiding at a meeting to exercise a power of expulsion.

· If adopted, clauses 15.16 and 15.17 of the Model Code confer a standing authorisation on all chairpersons of meetings of the council and committees of the council to expel persons from meetings.

· If adopted, clause 15.16 authorises chairpersons to expel any person, including a councillor from a council or committee meeting.

· Alternatively, if adopted, clause 15.17 authorises chairpersons to expel persons other than councillors from a council or committee meeting.

In the previous versions of the CGRC Code of Meeting Practice, clause 15.16 was adopted.

Record of Voting

· All voting at council meetings, (including meetings that are closed to the public), must be recorded in the minutes of meetings with the names of councillors who voted for and against each motion or amendment (including the use of the casting vote) being recorded (11.10).

Dealing with Items of Exception

· The council or a committee of council may, at any time, resolve to adopt multiple items of business on the agenda together by way of a single resolution where it considers it necessary to expedite the consideration of business at a meeting.

· Before the council or committee resolves to adopt multiple items of business on the agenda together under clause 13.1, the chairperson must list the items of business to be adopted and ask councillors to identify any individual items of business listed by the chairperson that they intend to vote against the recommendation made in the business paper or that they wish to speak on.

· The council or committee must not resolve to adopt any item of business under clause 13.1 that a councillor has identified as being one they intend to vote against the recommendation made in the business paper or to speak on.

· Where the consideration of multiple items of business together under clause 13.1 involves a variation to the order of business for the meeting, the council or committee must resolve to alter the order of business in accordance with clause 8.2.

· A motion to adopt multiple items of business together under clause 13.1 must identify each of the items of business to be adopted and state that they are to be adopted as recommended in the business paper.

· Items of business adopted under clause 13.1 are to be taken to have been adopted unanimously.

· Councillors must ensure that they declare and manage any conflicts of interest they may have in relation to items of business considered together under clause 13.1.

Rescinding or Altering Council Decisions

· A notice of motion to alter or rescind a resolution relating to a development application must be submitted to the general manager no later than 1 day after the meeting at which the resolution was adopted.

· Subject to clause 17.7, in cases of urgency, a motion to alter or rescind a resolution of the council may be moved at the same meeting at which the resolution was adopted, where:

(a) a notice of motion signed by three councillors is submitted to the chairperson at the meeting, and

(b) the council resolves to deal with the motion at the meeting on the grounds that it is urgent and requires a decision by the council before the next scheduled ordinary meeting of the council.

· A motion moved under clause 17.12(b) can be moved without notice. Despite any other provision of this code, only the mover of a motion referred to in clause 17.12(b) and the chairperson, if they are not the mover of the motion, can speak to the motion before it is put.

· A resolution adopted under clause 17.12(b) must state the reasons for the urgency.

Recommitting resolutions to correct an error

· Despite the provisions of this Part, a councillor may, with the leave of the chairperson, move to recommit a resolution adopted at the same meeting:

(a) to correct any error, ambiguity or imprecision in the council’s resolution, or

(b) to confirm the voting on the resolution.

· In seeking the leave of the chairperson to move to recommit a resolution for the purposes of clause 17.15(a), the councillor is to propose alternative wording for the resolution.

· The chairperson must not grant leave to recommit a resolution for the purposes of clause 17.15(a), unless they are satisfied that the proposed alternative wording of the resolution would not alter the substance of the resolution previously adopted at the meeting.

· A motion moved under clause 17.15 can be moved without notice. Despite any other provision of this code, only the mover of a motion referred to in clause 17.15 and the chairperson, if they are not the mover of the motion, can speak to the motion before it is put

· A motion of dissent cannot be moved against a ruling by the chairperson under clause 17.15.

· A motion moved under clause 17.15 with the leave of the chairperson cannot be voted on unless or until it has been seconded.

Time Limits on Council Meetings

· Meetings of the council and committees of the council are to conclude no later than 10pm.

· If the business of the meeting is unfinished at 10pm, the council or the committee may, by resolution, extend the time of the meeting.

· If the business of the meeting is unfinished at 11pm, and the council does not resolve to extend the meeting, the chairperson must either:

(a) defer consideration of the remaining items of business on the agenda to the next ordinary meeting of the council, or

(b) adjourn the meeting to a time, date and place fixed by the chairperson.

· Clause 18.3 does not limit the ability of the council or a committee of the council to resolve to adjourn a meeting at any time. The resolution adjourning the meeting must fix the time, date and place that the meeting is to be adjourned to.

· Where a meeting is adjourned under clause 18.3 or 18.4, the general manager must:

(a) individually notify each councillor of the time, date and place at which the meeting will reconvene, and

(b) publish the time, date and place at which the meeting will reconvene on the council’s website and in such other manner that the general manager is satisfied is likely to bring notice of the time, date and place of the reconvened meeting to the attention of as many people as possible.

Supplementary Provisions

The following is a summary of the ‘supplementary provisions’ which are non-mandatory provisions (supplementary provisions are identified as green text in the Draft Code of Meeting Practice).

Meeting Principles

· The inclusions of ‘Respectful’ to the Meeting Principles section if the Code (this is in the current code).

Giving notice of business to be considered at council meetings

· Notice of motions are to be submitted by 12pm on the Monday the week preceding the meeting (this is in the current code).

Statement of Ethical Obligations

· The inclusion of a statement of ethical obligations (this is in the current code).

Public Forums

· The rules under which the public forums are to be conducted (this is in the current code).

Order of business for ordinary council meetings

· The general order of business is included in the Draft Code (this is in the current code).

Chairperson’s duties with respect to motions

· Clause 10.8, any motion, amendment, or other matter that the chairperson has ruled out of order is taken to have been lost (this is in the current code)

Motions requiring the expenditure of funds

· Motions requiring the expenditure of funds, clause 10.9, a motion or an amendment to a motion which if passed would require the expenditure of funds on works and/or services other than those already provided for in the council’s current adopted operational plan must identify the source of funding for the expenditure that is the subject of the motion. If the motion does not identify a funding source, the council must defer consideration of the matter, pending a report from the general manager on the availability of funds for implementing the motion if adopted.

Representations by members of the public

· The inclusion of how to manage speakers who wish to speak before council goes into a Closed Session (this is in the current code).

Points of order

· A point of order cannot be made with respect to adherence to the principles contained in the Meeting Principles (this is in the current code).

Attendance to committee Meetings

· The inclusion of attendance provisions at Committee Meetings (this is in the current Code).

Financial

No financial implications associated with this purpose of this report.

OLG 23a Guideline consideration

Report purpose does not conflict with guidelines.

Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

28 October 2025

8.2.6 Tabling of Pecuniary Interest Returns

DOCUMENT NUMBER

446507

REPORTING OFFICER

Anne Chamberlain, Governance Officer

AUTHORISING OFFICER

Linda Wiles, Manager Business

RELEVANCE TO COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN

4. Collaborative and progressive leadership

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

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

There are no Financial implications associated with this report.

LEGISLATIVE IMPLICATIONS

In accordance with Section 449 Local Government Act, 1993.

POLICY IMPLICATIONS

To comply with the Code of Conduct.

ATTACHMENTS

Nil

Recommendation

The tabling of pecuniary interest returns from Councillors and designated persons be noted.

Introduction

The Code of Conduct specifies that Councillors and designated persons must make and lodge with the general manager a return, disclosing the designated person’s or Councillors interests within 3 months after:

(a) becoming a designated person or Councillor, and

(b) 30 June of each year, and

(c) the designated person or Councillor becoming aware of an interest they are required to disclose under schedule 1 that has not been previously disclosed in a return lodged under paragraphs (a) or (b).

Returns required to be lodged with the general manager under (a) and (b) must be tabled at the first meeting of the council after the last day the return is required to be lodged.

Returns required to be lodged with the general manager under clause (c) must be tabled at the next council meeting after the return is lodged.

Discussion

Annual pecuniary interest returns from Councillors and designated persons for the period 1July 2024 to 30 June 2025 are tabled.

Pecuniary interest returns from new designated staff as of 1 July 2025, is tabled.

Designated person	Position	Latest return on file
Abb McAlister	Mayor	Annual – 2024/2025
Rosalind Wight	Deputy Mayor	Annual – 2024/2025
Les Cooper	Councillor	Annual – 2024/2025
Gil Kelly	Councillor	Annual – 2024/2025
Logan Collins	Councillor	Annual – 2024/2025
Ethan Ryan	Councillor	Annual – 2024/2025
David Graham	Councillor	Annual – 2024/2025
Penny Nicholson	Councillor	Annual – 2024/2025
Danyal Syed	Councillor	Annual – 2024/2025
Roger Bailey	Interim General Manager	Annual – 2024/2025
Trevor Dando	Acting Deputy General Manager - Operations	Annual – 2024/2025
Linda Wiles	Manager Business	Annual – 2024/2025
Thomas Hogg	Acting Manager Engineering - Gundagai	Annual – 2024/2025
David Brodie	Acting Manager Engineering - Cootamundra	Annual – 2024/2025
Steve Lowe	Acting Manager Regional Services - Cootamundra	Annual – 2024/2025
Donna Britton	Acting Manager Regional Services - Gundagai	Annual – 2024/2025
Greg Ewings	Acting Manager Regional Services - Gundagai	Annual – 2024/2025
Lauren Dawes	Acting Manager Sustainable Development	Annual – 2024/2025
Nicole Godber	Ranger/ Regulatory Officer	Annual – 2024/2025
Nathan Campbell	Ranger/Cemetery Attendant	Annual – 2024/2025
Andrew Wiegold	Ranger	Annual – 2024/2025
Jacob Tiernan	Acting Open Space Supervisor – Ranger Duties	Annual – 2024/2025
Gene Kessell	Regional Services Attendant	Annual – 2024/2025
Luke Izzard	Environmental Health and Building Surveyor	Annual – 2024/2025
Kevin Prior	Environmental Health Officer	Annual – 2024/2025
Craig Perrin	Town Planner	Annual – 2024/2025
Alex Marshall	Town Planner (PPT)	Annual – 2024/2025
Damian Smith	Acting Manager Finance	New
Cody Hardy	Acting Manager Business	New

The code of conduct specifies that a person need not make and lodge a return if they made and lodged a return in the preceding 3 months, or if they have ceased to be a designated person in the preceding 3 months.

Financial

There are no financial implications associated with this report.

OLG 23a Guideline consideration

The report purpose does not conflict with guidelines.

Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

28 October 2025

8.3.2 2026 Carry Forward Budget

DOCUMENT NUMBER

445788

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

Net amount of $8.256M will be carried forward from prior years budget.

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

1. The Carry Forward Budget report be received and noted.

2. The budget variations in the report totalling $8,255,495.00 be adopted.

The Carry forward budget is prepared to transfer the unexpended balance from the prior financial year. There is no operational budget being carried forward this year.

Capital Expenditure

Manager	Category	Project Description	Funding Source	$ to carry forward
Hogg	BRIDGE	Hillas Creek Bridge Replacement	Revenue	$46,610
Lowe	BUILDING	Amenities additions to Fisher Park Cootamundra - SCCF5-0562 Project 1	Grant	$401,050
Lowe	BUILDING	Cootamundra Emergency Evacuation Centre	Grant	$130,000
Lowe	POOLS	Cootamundra Pool - Replacement Dosing System	Revenue	$40,000
Lowe	BUILDING	Back-up Generator for evacuation centres	Grant	$100,000
Ewings	BUILDING	Gundagai Visitors Information Centre redevelopment - disabled ramp and toilet	Grant	$474,760
Ewings	BUILDING	Refurb Toilet Block - Gundagai Depot	Revenue	$60,000
Ewings	BUILDING	SCCF3-1159 – Carberry Park Toilet Block Grant	Grant	$129,000
Ewings	BUILDING	Gundagai Emergency Management Centre	Grant	$50,000
Brodie	PROPERTY	Aerodrome Land Development	Reserve	$195,000
Ewings	CEMETARY	Gundagai South & Lawn Cemetery Toilet Block	Reserve	$60,994
Lowe	RECREATION	Redevelopment of Fisher Park Sporting Precinct - Masterplan - Southern Phone	Grant	$24,000
Lowe	RECREATION	Muttama Creek Master Plan	Grant	$63,000
Ewing	RECREATION	Gundagai Swimming Pool Refurb (SCF1 Funded and contribution from GunSwim)	Grant	$28,000
Ewing	RECREATION	Owen Vincent - Cricket Nets (Local Roads and Community Infrastructure (LRCI Rd 4a)	Grant	$25,000
Ewing	RECREATION	Sherwood Forest - Landon St Tree removal along walking track & Create green space and off leash dog park (Local Roads and Community Infrastructure (LRCI Rd 2)	Grant	$73,680
Ewing	RECREATION	Gundagai Effluent Reuse Project	Reserve	$300,000
Ewing	RECREATION	Golf Course Irrigation Pump System	Reserve	$10,000
Brodie	ROADS	Cootamundra Roads - Capital Works Budget	44% Grant 56% Revenue	$526,000
Brodie	ROADS	FMP/0057 - Cootamundra flood warning system review	80% Grant 20% Revenue	$72,920
Brodie	ROADS	FMP/0058 - Cootamundra Turf Club Detention Basin and McGowan Street Levee Feasibility Study	80% Grant 20% Revenue	$120,095
Hogg	ROADS	Drainage Replacements Gundagai Town - Tor Street Drainage Replacement	Revenue	$21,000
Hogg	ROADS	Middleton Drive Advance Warning Signage	Grant	$20,000
Ewing	WASTE	Gundagai New Amenities Building	Reserve	$120,000
Ewing	WASTE	Gundagai New Fence	Reserve	$100,000
Ewing	WASTE	Gundagai Power	Reserve	$150,000
Ewing	WASTE	Gundagai Weighbridge	Reserve	$350,000
Brodie	SEWER	Sewer rising main and Betts Steet sewer pump station Cootamundra	Reserve	$1,741,000
Brodie	SEWER	Sewer Modelling & Investigation Work	Reserve	$47,000
Brodie	SEWER	Cootamundra Sewerage treatment plant refurbishment	Reserve	$410,000
Hogg	SEWER	Sewer Telemetry/Scada Upgrades Gundagai	Reserve	$90,000
Hogg	SEWER	Sewer Mains Rehabilitation	Reserve	$470,000
Brodie	WATER	Res 1 Chlorination, Cootamundra	Reserve	$96,500
Brodie	WATER	Res 2 Chlorination, Matilda Avenue Cootamundra	Reserve	$250,927
Hogg	WATER	Water Mains Replacement	Reserve	$470,000
Hogg	WATER	Gundagai Water Treatment Plant Refurbishment - Sand Filters, Low & High Lift Pumps & Intake System	Revenue	$600,400
Hogg	WATER	Extension of Gundagai Water Supply to the Dog on the Tuckerbox site	Grant	$338,559
Hogg	WATER	Water Telemetry/SCADA Upgrades Gundagai	Reserve	$50,000

Total				$8,255,495

Financial

No financial implications associated with this purpose of this report.

OLG 23a Guideline consideration

Report purpose does not conflict with guidelines.

Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

28 October 2025

8.3.3 Finance Update - September 2025

DOCUMENT NUMBER

447937

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 for the month of September 2025, be received and noted.

Report

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

Operations

Income

The operational income is at 49% 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	$126,531	$445,000	28%	J
Business Department	$18,995	$240,000	8%	K
Engineering Cootamundra	$240,770	$3,143,489	8%	K
Engineering Gundagai	$41,274	$858,488	5%	K
Executive Department	$54,951	$40,000	137%	J
Finance Department	$2,360,455	$8,286,920	28%	J
Rates Cootamundra	$6,930,098	$7,287,312	95%	J
Rates Gundagai	$4,789,534	$4,799,875	100%	J
Services Cootamundra	$2,788,780	$3,733,588	75%	J
Services Gundagai	$1,059,042	$1,741,700	61%	J
Sewer Cootamundra	$933,089	$3,204,437	29%	J
Sewer Gundagai	$2,503	$895,677	0%	K
Water Cootamundra	$1,433,238	$3,777,200	38%	J
Water Gundagai	$27,468	$1,913,587	1%	K
Plant Hire - Gundagai	$291,614	$1,900,000	15%	J
Plant Hire - Cootamundra	$579,353	$1,900,000	30%	J
Total	$21,677,694	$44,167,272	49%

Expenditure

Operational Expenditure is at 23% when comparing actual to budget.

Department	Expense Actual	Expense Budget	% Spent	Result	Comment
Building Department	$356,118	$1,886,675	19%	J
Business Department	$990,481	$4,201,251	24%	J
Engineering Cootamundra	$2,234,888	$8,054,208	28%	J
Engineering Gundagai	$1,184,483	$4,856,380	24%	J
Executive Department	$624,593	$2,600,713	24%	J
Finance Department	$3,455,788	$11,033,752	31%	J
Services Cootamundra	$1,362,675	$6,232,936	22%	J
Services Gundagai	$715,008	$2,926,363	24%	J
Sewer Cootamundra	$99,229	$2,237,237	4%	K
Sewer Gundagai	$133,244	$1,528,624	9%	K
Water Cootamundra	$59,703	$3,431,089	2%	K
Water Gundagai	$194,159	$1,713,593	11%	J
Total	$11,410,371	$50,702,821	23%

Capital

Income

Capital income is at 8% of budget when comparing actual to budget.

Asset Category	Total YTD.	Budget	%Received	Result	Comments
Plant & Equipment - Cootamundra	$111,372	$473,550	24%	J
Plant & Equipment - Gundagai	$53,779	$498,950	11%	J
Property Disposal – Cootamundra	$0	$1,000,000	0%	J
Property Disposal – Gundagai	$0	$0	0%	J
TOTAL	$165,151	$1,972,500	8%

Expenditure

Capital expenditure is at 29% of budget when comparing actual to budget.

Asset Category	Total YTD	Budget	% Spent	Result	Comments
Cootamundra Land	$7,537	$50,000	15%	J
Cootamundra Plant	$654,841	$1,300,000	50%	J
Cootamundra Roads	$154,752	$1,873,589	8%	K
Cootamundra Building	$50,126	$120,000	42%	J
Cootamundra Recreation	$49,899	$260,000	19%	J
Cootamundra Waste	$0	$0	0%	J
Cootamundra Bridges	$0	$20,000	0%	J
Cootamundra Water	$156,508	$923,943	17%	J
Cootamundra Sewer	$1,798,725	$1,895,000	95%	J
Cootamundra Demerger	$24,818	$1,500,000	2%	J
Cootamundra Property	$0	$0	0%	J
Gundagai Bridges	$53,433	$150,000	36%	J
Gundagai Building	$119,953	$155,000	77%	J
Gundagai Demerger	$24,818	$1,500,000	2%	J
Gundagai Plant	$466,053	$1,300,000	36%	J
Gundagai Property	$16,600	$0	0%	J
Gundagai Recreation	$0	$460,000	0%	J
Gundagai Roads	$512,119	$2,273,859	23%	J
Gundagai Sewer	$64,808	$1,169,610	6%	K
Gundagai Waste	$0	$0	0%	J
Gundagai Water	$1,218,760	$3,625,145	34%	J
IT	$0	$50,000	0%	J
Total	$5,373,751	$18,626,146	29%

Financial

There are no financial implications associated with this report.

OLG 23a Guideline consideration

Report purpose does not conflict with guidelines.

Demerger Costs Update

Note at this stage any expenditure prior to 2023 still needs to be located and recorded.

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Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

28 October 2025

8.3.4 Restricted Cash Reconciliation - September 2025

DOCUMENT NUMBER

447919

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

The Restricted Cash Reconciliation report for the period ending 30 September 2025, be received and noted.

Report

The restricted cash figures have been reconciled to 30 September 2025 as shown in the below table.

Internally Restricted Reserves	Bal 30 Jun 2025	Transfers To	Transfers From	Bal 30 Sep 2025
Aerodrome Bitumen Resurfacing	165,588			165,588
Bradman's Birthplace	76,337			76,337
Cootamundra Caravan Park	191,419		(510)	190,909
Heritage Centre	28,621		(2,739)	25,882
Development - Land & Buildings	1,767,204			1,767,204
Employee Leave Entitlements	1,536,363			1,536,363
Quarries & Pit Restoration	286,225			286,225
Bangus Landfill	631,584	69,729		701,314
Plant Replacement	2,749,019	1,027,455	(1,630,556)	2,145,917
Cemetery	37,963	138,596	(73,227)	103,331
Southern Phone	540,143		(12,000)	528,143
Waste Management	500,000			500,000
Advanced Financial Assistance Grant	3,720,234	-	(3,720,234)	-
Total Internal	12,230,700	1,235,780	(5,439,267)	8,027,213

Externally Restricted Reserves
Domestic Waste	1,970,948	658,080	(492,970)	2,136,058
Water Supply	7,807,419	1,462,953	(1,167,817)	8,102,556
Sewerage Service	5,928,360	936,783	(503,602)	6,361,541
Stormwater Infrastructure Renewal	517,986	32,050	(104,807)	445,229
Developer Contributions - General	1,477,961	30,795		1,508,756
Developer Contributions - Sewer	219,000	6,092		225,092
General Fund Unspent Grants & Contributions	1,286,229	43,825	(72,166)	1,257,888
RERRF, SCF Rd1, OLG Flood Unspent Grants	3,564,519		(114,411)	3,450,109
Total External	22,772,423	3,170,578	(2,455,772)	23,487,229
TOTALS	35,003,123	4,789,818	(7,895,039)	31,514,441

Restricted Cash Reconciliation

Restricted Cash	31,514,441
Cash at 30 September 2025	33,419,300
Unrestricted Balance	1,904,858
Grant Debtors and Contract Asset Outstanding	250,043
Balance	2,154,901

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

28 October 2025

8.3.5 Unrestricted and Unallocated Cash Position at 30 June 2025

DOCUMENT NUMBER

447952

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

Will change unrestricted funds balance reported in the 2025 Financial Statements from a negative balance of $3.8m to a net surplus of $691.

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. Notes the unrestricted and unallocated cash position of negative $3.8 million at 30 June 2025.

2. Approve the proposed adjustments to internal restrictions, as shown below, to achieve a positive unrestricted cash balance for 30 June 2025, resulting in an unrestricted and unallocated cash balance of $691.00 for the 2025 financial year.

Purpose

To outline Council’s current unrestricted and unallocated cash position as presented in the 2024/25 annual financial statements and provide recommendation for adjustments to internal restrictions to achieve a positive unrestricted and unallocated balance, in line with Council policy and financial reporting obligations.

Background

As 30 June 2025, Council held $31.2 million in cash and investments. After applying internal and external restrictions in accordance with the Restricted Assets Policy, the total restricted amount was $35 million, resulting in an unrestricted cash deficit of $3.8 million.

The internal restriction for the Financial Assistance Grant (FAG) advance payment has been reinstated. In previous years, this advance was not treated as restricted; however, in accordance with Council’s Restricted Assets Policy, the early payment of the Financial Assistance Grant must be internally restricted to ensure the funding is only used in the financial year for which it was intended.

Advice from Financial Consultant:

Council’s financial consultant, Igor Ivannikov, has advised that:

A negative unrestricted cash balance after internal allocations does not constitute a breach of the Local Government Act 1993. While it is generally preferable to avoid reporting a negative position, other councils have done so in previous years without issue provided that external restrictions are fully covered.

Council could choose to remove the internal restriction for the Financial Assistance Grant (FAG) advance payment of $3.7 million, which would reduce the unrestricted and unallocated cash deficit to negative $120,000.

If the preferred position is for Council to have a positive unrestricted and unallocated cash balance, internal allocations need to be adjusted where possible, particularly if there are reserves that can be reduced without impacting operational priorities.

Having a negative Unrestricted Cash balance highlights that Council's financial position is not as sound as it should be. As things stand currently Council cannot realistically maintain the Internal Cash Restrictions. More importantly Council cannot maintain the expectations that the cash is held for. Should Council choose not to make any adjustment at this point it will have to make a decision about the allocation of cash prior to the demerger.

Options:

Option 1 (Recommended Adjustment)

To improve the unrestricted and unallocated cash position of council at 30 June 2025, it is proposed that the following internal restrictions be transferred to unrestricted funds, allowing for a positive unrestricted and unallocated position to be reported in the financial statements at 30.06.25:

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These adjustments would result in a positive unrestricted and unallocated cash balance, while remaining consistent with Council’s financial policies and reporting standards. This approach is recommended to enable Council to report a positive unrestricted and unallocated cash balance, after internal restrictions are applied to the available cash and investment balance at 30 June 2025.

Option 2

Take no action to bring its Unrestricted Cash into positive as at 30 June 2025. As discussed above, negative unrestricted cash balance after internal allocations does not constitute a breach of the Local Government Act 1993. While it is generally preferable to avoid reporting a negative position, other councils have done so in previous years without issue provided that external restrictions are fully covered.

Option 3

Make an alternative adjustment to bring the Unrestricted Cash into positive as at 30 June 2025. Council may choose to determine a different mix of internal restrictions be transferred to unrestricted funds

Current Restricted cash reconciliation

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Restricted cash reconciliation

Cash at 30 June 2025	$ 31,162,882
Restricted Cash	$ (35,003,122)
Unrestricted Balance	$ (3,840,240)

Proposed Restricted Cash after recommendations

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Restricted cash reconciliation

Cash at 30 June 2025	$ 31,162,882
Restricted Cash	$ 31,162,191
Unrestricted Balance	$ 691

Financial

If the recommendation is adopted then this will change the unrestricted funds balance reported in the 2025 Financial Statements from a negative balance of $3.8m to a net surplus of $691.

OLG 23a Guideline consideration

Report purpose does not conflict with guidelines.

Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

28 October 2025

8.5 Engineering Cootamundra

8.5.1 Pedestrian and Mobility Access Plans Update 2025

DOCUMENT NUMBER

447115

REPORTING OFFICER

Kylie Grybaitis, Road Safety 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

Financial implications associated with this report will vary according to successful grant funding and prioritising works are warranted from council capital works budgets.

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 Cootamundra & Villages PAMP 2025 Update (under separate cover)

2. Draft Gundagai & Villages PAMP 2025 Update (under separate cover)

Recommendation

1. That the updated drafts of the Cootamundra & Villages Pedestrian Access and Mobility Plan 2023-2033 and the Gundagai & Villages Pedestrian Access and Mobility Plan 2022-2033, attached to the report, be placed on public exhibition for a period of twenty-eight (28) days.

2. If no substantive submissions are received during the exhibition period, the plans be adopted.

3. In the event that meaningful submissions are received, those submissions will be reviewed, a further report presented to Council for further consideration.

Introduction

The Draft Cootamundra & Villages and Draft Gundagai & Villages Pedestrian Access and Mobility Plans (PAMPs) 2023–2033 have been developed to strategically guide investment in safe, accessible, and integrated pedestrian infrastructure across the townships and villages of both regions. These plans aim to optimise future funding opportunities by prioritising initiatives identified through comprehensive community engagement and detailed network safety audits. An annual review of these documents will ensure priorities remain current and responsive to evolving community needs and infrastructure conditions.

Discussion

Council received twenty-three (23) submissions from local residents with regard to locations requesting repairs, replacements or new infrastructure over the past year. These submissions have been considered, investigated and added to the PAMP documents where appropriate. All correspondents have received notification and an explanation of the outcome of their submission.

Notable updates include:

Cootamundra & Villages

1. Bourke Street from the existing path to the corner of Murray Street - 4 additional requests -already noted as a high priority in new infrastructure (CN5)

2. Cootamundra Hospital link to Adina Care - 3 new requests - included in the PAMP as a high priority in new infrastructure (CN33)

3. TACC entrance on Wallendoon Street - 3 additional requests – already noted as a high priority in the PAMP (CR37). A work schedule for this location has commenced.

4. Slippery pavers in Parker Street CBD - already noted as a high priority in in the PAMP (CR12)

5. Widen paths on Hurley Street - already noted in the PAMP as a low priority for replacement (CR25 & CR26)

6. Crown Street from Temora Street to Adam Street - already noted in the PAMP as a high priority (CN13).

7. Hovell Street from Bourke Street to Wallendoon Street (western side) – included in the PAMP as low priority as existing shared path exists on the opposite side of the road (CN35)

8. Wallendoon Street gutters between Cooper Lane and Cooper Street – already noted in PAMP as a medium priority (CR36)

9. Murray Street from Adam Street to Bourke Street providing a link around Fisher Park – already noted in PAMP as a high priority (CN8)

10. Centenary Avenue from Cowcumbla to Hurley Street – included in the PAMP as a low priority in new infrastructure (CN35)

11. Boundary Road from Sheahan Street to Warralong Road – already noted in the PAMP as a medium priority (CR30)

12. King Street, Wallendbeen to include a new disability friendly ramp and guttering – already a high priority in new infrastructure (WN1)

13. Mackay Street from the footbridge to Poole Street – included as a high priority in repairs and replacements (CR33)

14. Murray Street from Adam Street to Bourke Street – priority updated from medium to high in 2025 update (CR19)

15. Hovell Street from the Gundagai Road level crossing to the railway station – included as a high priority in new infrastructure (CN33)

Gundagai & Villages

1. Hanley Street from West Street to Gundagai Highschool is already noted as a high priority in new infrastructure (GN6)

2. West Street Primary School pedestrian crossing upgrade has been included as a high priority in existing footpaths, ramps and crossings (GR39)

The final draft of the Cootamundra & Villages PAMP and the Gundagai & Villages PAMP 2025 Update are attached.

Financial

Financial implications associated with this report will vary according to successful grant funding and prioritising works are warranted from council capital works budgets.

OLG 23a Guideline consideration

Report purpose does not conflict with guidelines.

Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

28 October 2025

8.5.2 Cootamundra Engineering Report - September 2025

DOCUMENT NUMBER

447263

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

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

Introduction

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

Discussion

State Roads

Burley Griffin Way

Heavy Patching works began on Monday 29 September, east of Wallendbeen, and are scheduled for completion by Friday 31 October, west of Stockinbingal, weather permitting. The works are being carried out by Council Road Crews in conjunction with contractors.

Olympic Highway

The Olympic Highway rail bridge at Wallendbeen was struck by an unknown vehicle on Friday 5 September, causing damage to the eastern brickwork. Currently there is a reduced road traffic and train speed at the bridge. Traffic lights are in place. The asset owner, UGL, are investigating the incident and will confirm when repairs are to be undertaken. Traffic management is now being managed by UGL until repair works can be carried out.

Heavy Patching works south of Cootamundra have been completed.

The resealing program on both Burley Griffin Way and the Olympic Highway are scheduled to commence mid-November and run for approximately 5 days. Line marking is planned to be completed before Christmas.

General Works

Footpath Replacement

The concrete crew has completed works in Hurley Street and is now undertaking rectification works to address slips, trips and falls hazards identified during workplace inspections.

The concrete crew has also commenced works in Thompson Street and will then start pit and drain rehabilitation works on Gundagai Road.

Maintenance Grading

The Cootamundra maintenance grading crew has been working in and around the areas of Mabereen Lane, Yannawah, Milvale, the Temora boundary and back to Stockinbingal. Gravel patching has been carried out on Old Treatment Works Lane, Racecourse Road, Rosehill Road and Mabereen Lane.

Patching Works

Maintenance crews have been undertaking potholing and sheeting works on Old Gundagai Road using the jet patcher, in preparation for increased vehicles associated with the Bathurst traffic.

Other Works

Crews have been cleaning out drains and culverts on Morrisons Hill Road and are in town working on shaping and cleaning the drains around Bradman Oval, Gundagai Road and White Street.

Crews have commenced this year’s rounds of RFS slashing being part way through Wallendbeen and will then move onto Stockinbingal.

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Risk Management

Cootamundra Aerodrome – Council staff completed a trial maintenance grade to remove a large amount of rubber from the runway in preparation for a friction test, following concerns raised by CASA regarding runway maintenance. Staff continue to investigate self-performed maintenance options to ensure cost-effective service delivery. Weed control at the Cootamundra Aerodrome was conducted on Friday, 12 September. Council’s three tonne excavator and bobcat also completed repairs to a major defect within the sealed taxiway.

A large amount of cleaning and reorganisation has been completed at the Cootamundra Workshop and Depot 1, which addresses a number of minor to moderate safety hazards identified during routine inspections.

The concrete crew have completed works on the Emulsion Bund safety improvements. Rectification works targeting improvements to identified slip, trips and falls hazards were identified during workplace inspections.

Road Safety

Local Transport Forum

The November agenda is currently being prepared for the meeting to be held on 13 November.

National Heavy Vehicle Regulator

Council have received and reviewed a total of 73 Access Permit Applications during the reporting period.

Approvals	Pre-Approvals	Approved with Conditions	Refusals	Awaiting Assessment
53	18	35	7	13

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

Traffic data from four State Road counters has been downloaded and compiled into a report to assist with future works planning.

Community Awareness Campaigns

Motorcycle Awareness Month is underway. The Cootamundra Motorcycle Awareness event was held on 1 October and was a great success. Twenty nine bikes were on display including a highway patrol bike and two local Police Officers were in attendance and Michael McCormick MP enjoyed a photo opportunity. Feedback both in person and on social media was extremely positive.

Banners and promotion are in place for the Gundagai event on 15October. Motorcycle display, free sausage sizzle, coffee, safety information and giveaways. The event is being promoted through Council channels and by the Motorcycle Council of NSW.

TfNSW resources are being utilised to promote Motorcycle Awareness Month via Council’s print and social media channels.

Stop Sign Installation

Stop signs have been installed on Boundary Road & Berthong Road at the Temora Street intersection. Stop signs for Parker and Temora St intersection have been ordered. Approximate 6 week lead time on delivery due to stock of required size and fabrication.

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PAMP Updates

Final updates have been applied to the draft PAMP for both Cootamundra and Gundagai. A report is being presented to this Council Meeting recommending that the drafts be placed on public exhibition for a period of 28 days.

Grant Funding

Three projects have been identified for Black Spot Funding, with applications to be finalised by 31 October. The three projects nominated by staff are as follows:

· Nangus Road - semi rigid barriers on curve and audio tactile edge line placement in response to two serious injury accidents in the past 5 years.

· Muttama Road - semi rigid barriers and audio tactile edge lines to improve curve safety in response to two serious injury crashes in the past 5 years.

· Boundary Road x Temora Street x Berthong Road - notorious rural intersection with a crash cluster - currently assessing different options to improve safety.

Water and Sewer

General maintenance is continuing including clearing sewer chokes and repairs to burst services and water mains.

A new urinal system has been installed at the Wallendbeen Rest Stop.

Cootamundra Sewer Pump Stations – staff have been focusing on pump station upgrades, including cementing pads for renewal of infrastructure, installing posts and fitting new electrical panels to structures for integrating pump stations into the new telemetry network.

Betts St Rising Main – Council’s contractor Trazelbat has commenced service locating, excavation, laying pipe and backfilling at the Strikers Soccer field. Additional works have been carried out to upgrade the switchboard located at the Betts Street pump station.

Workshop

All pink slips, HVIS and conditional registrations have been completed.

The workshop has been servicing and replacing blades across Council’s mower fleet in preparation for the growing season, as well as carrying out general maintenance on the white and yellow fleet.

Request for Quotes have closed for the Civil, Workshop and Water & Sewer utilities and assessments will now be undertaken.

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

28 October 2025

8.6 Engineering Gundagai

8.6.1 Heavy Vehicle Access on Council Controlled Roads

DOCUMENT NUMBER

446151

REPORTING OFFICER

Thomas Hogg, Acting Mangaer Engineering Gundagai

AUTHORISING OFFICER

Trevor Dando, Acting Deputy General Manager Operations

RELEVANCE TO COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN

5. Integrated and accessible region

5.1 Known for our good road network

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

This report will impact the lifespan and upgrade costs of our assets.

LEGISLATIVE IMPLICATIONS

If Council selects recommendations which require a gazette for the permitted use of certain vehicles, The conditions of the gazette will become legally enforceable on heavy vehicle operators.

POLICY IMPLICATIONS

There are no Policy implications associated with this report.

ATTACHMENTS

1. PBS 2A Proposed Routes ⇩

2. PBS 2B Proposed Routes ⇩

3. GML & CML 25/26m B-Double Routes ⇩

4. HML 25/26m B-Double Routes ⇩

5. Farm Gate Access Scheme 19m Semi Trailer Routes ⇩

6. Farm Gate Access Scheme 26m B-Double Routes ⇩

Recommendation

That:

1. For PBS Vehicles:

(a) That Council gazette roads highlighted in “PBS 2A Proposed Routes” of this report to permit PBS 2A Vehicles subject to conditions listed in “General Conditions” of this report

(b) That Council gazette roads highlighted in “PBS 2B Proposed Routes ” of this report to permit PBS 2B Vehicles subject to conditions listed in “General Conditions” of this report

(c) That Council prohibit PBS 3A, PBS 3B, PBS 4A or PBS 4B vehicles form using Council’s road network

2. For 25/26m B-Double vehicles:

(a) That Council gazette roads highlighted in “GML & CML 25/26m B-Double Routes” of this report to permit GML & CML 25/26m B-double vehicles subject to conditions listed in “General Conditions” of this report

(b) That Council gazette roads highlighted in “HML 25/26m B-Double Routes” of this report to permit HML 25/26 B-double vehicles subject to conditions listed in “General Conditions” of this report

3. For Type 1 A-double vehicles:

(a) That Council prohibit GML, CML and HML Type 1 A-double vehicles form using Council road network with the exception of 200m of Lewins Lane, starting from Burley Griffin Way.

4. For B-triple Vehicles:

(a) That Council prohibit GML, CML and HML B-Triple vehicles form using Council road network.

(b) That Council enter into the Farm Gate Access Scheme for roads highlighted in “Farm Gate Access Scheme 26m B-Double Routes” of this report for 19m Semi Trailers and 26m B Double vehicles for both LLS and GHMS schemes with the following conditions:

(i) That vehicles must not travel faster than 60km/h on unsealed roads

(ii) That unsealed roads are dry weather only access

(iii) That the Farm Gate Access Scheme not apply to roads which are weight limited.

5. Over Size and Over Mass (OSOM) vehicles continue to be assessed on a case-by-case basis.

6. Council continues its membership with SEWOLG and that Council requests that SEWOLG not undertake any action on Council roads until 30 days after options listed above are implemented on NHVR’s maps.

7. Council engage a suitably qualified structural bridge engineer to undertake assessments of bridges to assess structural adequacy for restricted access vehicles.

8. Council undertake an audit of weight restricted road signage to ensure appropriate and adequate signage is present.

9. Council provide feedback to letters received regarding NHVR applications within the last 3 months of the outcome of this resolution and utilise communication channels available to Council to advise of the changes made in this Council resolution.

Introduction

Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council has a diverse road network for which we need to balance productivity with safety and usability of all road users. This report seeks strategic direction for how Council wishes to manage the heavy vehicles on the road network in which Council is responsible for.

Vehicles can be split into two categories, General Access Vehicles and Restricted Access Vehicles. Restricted Access Vehicles are any vehicle which exceed any of the following specifications:

1) 19m long

2) 4.3m high

3) 2.5m wide

4) 42.5 tonne

Vehicles which meet all 4 criteria above are considered “General Access Vehicles” under Heavy Vehicle National Law and are able to use all CGRC roads without seeking permits (other than 8 or 15tonne weight limited roads within CGRC).

If a vehicle is to exceed any one (or more) of the specifications above, the vehicle becomes a “Restricted Access Vehicle.” These vehicles require prior approval before operating the vehicle. This approval can be granted either through gazette, which gives a blanket approval for all vehicles of that specification, or by applying for a permit through the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator (NHVR).

Council currently assesses each vehicle which applies for a permit through the National Heavy Vehicle Regulator and either gives consent, consent with conditions or rejects the application. Conditions imposed on consents may include (but is not limited to) a restriction on time which the vehicle can use the road to avoid school bus times, maximum speeds, requiring an escort vehicle, requiring that vehicles report damage caused by the vehicle to Council etc.

In Figure 1 below, it can be seen that vehicle permit applications has a significant and upward trend as the heavy vehicle industry attempt to use larger vehicles to move freight in an attempt to be more economical for their industry. It is anticipated that this trend will continue as more freight companies purchase restricted access vehicles. It is also anticipated that the size of vehicles will continue to increase and Council will see an increase in road train applications (PBS 3+, B Triple vehicles and larger).

Figure 1 - NHVR applications by month from Oct 2017 to August 2025.

PBS vehicles

Performance Based Vehicles (PBS) are vehicles which have been assessed based on their performance to perform equal to or better than the prescriptive vehicle which they are assessed against. Table 1 below sets out each PBS vehicle type (i.e. PBS 2A) and what prescriptive vehicle it has been assessed as equivalent to when assessed against Startability, Gradeability, Acceleration capability, Tracking capability on a straight path, Low speed swept path, frontal swing, tail swing, steer tyre friction demand, static rollover threshold, rearward amplification, high speed transient off tracking, yaw damping coefficient, pavement vertical loading, pavement horizonal loading, tyre contact area and bridge loading.

Table 1 - PBS Vehicles vs Prescriptive vehicles.

PBS vehicles provide Council with a vehicle which has equal to or less impact than prescriptive vehicles, however provide the freight industry with the ability to transport more freight using the one vehicle. By allowing PBS vehicles on Council roads rewards heavy vehicle operators who select vehicles which are safer and have less impact on the road per ton of freight that they transport.

Council currently allows for B-Double vehicles up to 26m length on many of Council roads. The equivalent PBS vehicle is a PBS 2A and 2B vehicle which allows for vehicles up to 30m in length. PBS vehicles larger than 30m are assessed as a Double road train equivalence which has significantly increased impact on Council roads on a per truck basis.

PBS 2A vehicles come in many different configurations however Council’s permits are typically for either truck and dog configurations or 25/26m B-Double configurations.

PBS 2B vehicles come in many different configurations, however Council typically sees PBS 2B vehicles in their A-Double configuration.

Table 2 highlights the different masses for PBS vehicles. General Mass Limit vehicles (GML), Concessional Mass Limit Vehicles (CML), and Higher Mass Limit Vehicles (HML) all related to the maximum mass which an axle or axle group is allowed to carry. It can be seen in Table 2 that there is a significant increase in mass of vehicles greater than PBS 2B.

PBS Vehicle Classification	Length	GML Mass Tonnes	CML Mass Tonnes	HML Mass Tonnes
PBS 1	<20m	50.5	50.5	50.5
PBS 2A	<26m	63	65	68.5
PBS 2B	<30m	68.5	68.5	68.5
PBS 3A	<36.5m	103	105	110
PBS 4A	53.5m	150	150	150+

Table 2 - PBS Masses

The recommendation of this Council report recommends that vehicles up to PBS 2B are allowed on roads which a 26m B-double would typically be allowed. When assessing roads to allow PBS 2B vehicles, Council has undertaken the following into consideration when undertaking a suitability assessment:

1) If road infrastructure (ie bridges, narrow roads etc) are not able to safely support the legal movement of the vehicle, the road was not supported for gazettal

2) If the road is to service a rural area or industrial area, then the road was more likely to be supported for gazettal

3) If the road was a residential area, then the road was more likely to not be supported for gazettal.

25/26m B-Doubles

25/26m B-Doubles are vehicles which include 1 prime mover and 2 trailers. Their length is equal to or less than 26m and have the following masses (for a 9 axle B-double):

	GML	CML	HML
Tare Mass	25.22t	25.22t	25.22t
Payload	37.28t	39.28t	42.78t
Gross Combination Mass	62.5t	64.5t	68.0t

A semi truck with a trailer

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25/26m B-Doubles have frequently used Council roads to move freight across the road network. These vehicles are known to frequently transport livestock, grain and other agricultural freight as well as processed freight.

The recommendation of this Council report recommends that 25/26m B-doubles are allowed on roads as per the attached maps. When assessing roads to allow 25/26m B-double vehicles, Council has undertaken the following into consideration when undertaking a suitability assessment:

1) If road infrastructure (i.e. bridges, narrow roads etc) are not able to safely support the legal movement of the vehicle, the road was not supported for gazettal

2) If the road is to service a rural area or industrial area, then the road was more likely to be supported for gazettal

3) If the road was a residential area, then the road was more likely to not be supported for gazettal.

By allowing 25/26m B-doubles on the same road network as PBS 2A and PBS 2B vehicles ensures consistency between vehicles which have similar road impact (impact according to NHVR).

Type 1 A-Doubles

Type 1 A-Doubles are vehicles which include 1 prime mover and 2 trailers. Each trailer is joined using a dolly. Their length is equal to or less than 36.5m and have the following masses (for a 12 axle A-double):

	GML	CML	HML
Tare Mass	29.93t	29.93t	29.93t
Payload	52.57t	54.57t	60.57t
Gross Combination Mass	82.5t	84.5t	90.5t

A trailer with a trailer attached to it

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Council has received a small number of A-Double applications which are not PBS vehicles. These vehicles have not been assessed to be similar to a B-double in performance. These vehicles have inferior turning performance and have inferior performance at intersections compared to B-doubles. A-doubles are significantly heavier than B-doubles, or PBS 2A and 2B vehicles. In this report Council has recommended not to allow A-Doubles on Council roads which are not approved under the PBS scheme with the exception of access to Manildra Group Stockinbingal on Lewins Lane. This gives an incentive for heavy vehicle operators to select vehicles which have less impact on Council roads and supports their participation in the PBS scheme.

For GML, CML and HML A-Double routes within the Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council area, Transport for NSW have gazetted Burley Griffin Way from Temora Shire Council boundary to Lewins Lane. No other road, including the Hume Highway have been gazetted by Transport for NSW for A-Double access.

Council is proposing to allow traditional A doubles up to 36.5m length along Lewins Lane from Burley Griffin Way for a distance of 200m. This allows the already gazetted A-Double route set by Transport for NSW to continue to its intended route of Manildra Group and is consistent with ensuring that both Transport for NSW’s managed roads and Councils managed roads work together.

B-Triples

B-Triples are vehicles which include 1 prime mover and 3 trailers. Each trailer is joined directly to the trailer immediately before it. Their length is equal to or less than 36.5m and have the following masses (for a 12 axle B-Triple):

	GML	CML	HML
Tare Mass	32.69t	32.69t	32.69t
Payload	49.81	51.81t	57.81t
Gross Combination Mass	82.5t	84.5t	90.5t

A blue semi trailer with black wheels

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Council has received a small number of B-Triple applications which are not PBS vehicles. These vehicles have not been assessed to be similar to a B-double in performance. These vehicles have inferior turning performance and have inferior performance at intersections compared to B-doubles. B-Triples are significantly heavier than B-doubles, or PBS 2A and 2B vehicles. In this report Council has recommended not to allow B-Triples on Council roads.

For GML, CML and HML B-Triples routes within the Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council area, Transport for NSW have gazetted Burley Griffin Way from Temora Shire Council boundary to Lewins Lane. No other road, including the Hume Highway have been gazetted by Transport for NSW for A-Double access.

Farm Gate Access Management Scheme

Farm Gate Access enables conditional area-wide access for Higher Productivity Vehicles transporting grain and livestock on low risk and low volume council roads. Some of the key benefits of participating in the Farm Gate Access Management Scheme are:

· enabling the use of more productive vehicles to safely transport grain and livestock from the farm gate to market, meaning fewer trips to achieve the same freight task

· reducing administration for farmers and transport operators by reducing the need to apply for access permits

· operators opting in to the network will be required to enrol with telematics which will provide de-identified data of vehicle usage of their road network. This data can be used to support infrastructure planning, maintenance and funding applications.

The following bordering Councils to Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council are participating in the Farm Gate Access Management Scheme:

Council	Vehicles approved
Wagga Wagga City Council – All Roads	19m Semi Trailer & 26m B-Double
Junee Shire Council – All Roads	19m Semi Trailer & 26m B-Double
Temora Shire Council – Rural Roads	19m Semi Trailer & 26m B-Double Modular B-Triple Road Train * Type 1 A-Double Road Train* B-Triple Road Train* *Condition: 60km/h speed limit on unsealed roads
Temora Shire Council – Key urban roads	19m Semi Trailer & 26m B-Double Modular B-Triple Road Train Type 1 A-Double Road Train B-Triple Road Train
Hilltops Council	Nil
Yass Valley Council	Nil
Snowy Valleys Council	Nil

Table 3 - Farm Gate Access Scheme - Bordering Councils

Council’s recommendation is consistent with the majority of participating neighbouring councils by allowing 19m Semi Trailers and 26m B-Doubles onto the road network within the rural area, and allowing key routes within the urban areas of Cootamundra and Gundagai. When comparing the topography of neighbouring Councils, Temora Shire Council is significantly flatter than the majority of Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Councils area allowing the roads to have a better geometric alignment. Wagga Wagga City Council and Junee Shire Council have a closer alignment with the road type, build and geometry to the roads within Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council.

OSOM vehicles

Over Sized and Overmass vehicles include loads which are very different from other loads within the OSOM category. A few examples include of loads includes Electricity transformers which can be in excess of 300 tonnes and require multiple prime movers connected together to safely move the load through to wind turbine blades which are light weight compared to their long length, of which some can be in excess of 100m long. Due to the significant variance in OSOM vehicles it is not possible to provide approval thorough gazette without being overly restrictive. Each OSOM vehicle should be assessed on a case by case basis where dimensions, bridge loadings and other mitigation measures such as requirements for traffic control, management of the removal of signage can be assessed and conditions imposed to protect Councils assets and ensure the safety of other road users.

General Conditions

Council recommends that the following conditions be placed on the Gazette for all relevant roads:

(a) On unsealed roads and single lane narrow roads, travel is suspended during periods of prolonged rain and up to 1days for every 50mm of rain within the 24 hours period after the rainfall event.

(b) In the event that the permitted heavy vehicle damages assets or infrastructure, contact must be made with Council on 1300 459 689 immediately, and a written statement advising Council of the damage must be made within 24 hours of the damage being caused. The written statement must be sent to mail@cgrc.nsw.gov.au

(c) Speed is restricted to 40 km/h when crossing Gobarralong Bridge (-34.981239, 148.269653) on Gobarralong Road between Hopewood Road and Kangaroo Mount Road

(d) The heavy vehicle must not travel between 07:30 and 09:00, and 15:00 and 16:30 on official school days.

SEWOLG

South East Weight of Loads Group (SEWOLG) provide education and enforcement for heavy vehicles who are breaching legislation relating to their vehicle. Their presence provides a deterrence from operators loading their vehicles beyond permitted loads or operating on weight or dimension restricted roads beyond the permitted weight.

Council have participated in (SEWOLG) since prior to the amalgamation of Cootamundra Shire Council and Gundagai Shire Council. During this time they have undertaken enforcement throughout the Council area to ensure that Councils assets are protected. Without this deterrence it is likely that Council will see an increase in illegal truck movements which will see an increase in damage to our infrastructure as well as truck movements which are unsafe for other road users.

If Council were to undertake the works utilising internal staff, a dedicated vehicle with portable weighing facilities would need to be procured. Additional training will need to be undertaken. This is estimated to be in the vicinity of $50,000 to $100,000 more expensive per year than what Council currently contributes towards SEWOLG.

NHVR are able to undertake enforcement action on local roads, however they typically focus on State Highways within the Cootamundra-Gundagai LGA. One example of enforcement that they frequently undertake within the LGA is the inspection station on the Hume Highway at Coolac.

Financial

Each truck movement on Councils road network has a financial implication on Council. This is through increased wear and tear, increased risk of damage to road infrastructure and increased costs to upgrade roads to meet higher standards required to accommodate heavier vehicles.

	Per Truck per kilometre.	Per 100t Payload per kilometre
9 Axle B Double (GML)	$1.08	$2.89
12 Axle A Double (GML)	$1.30	$2.47
9 Axle B Double (CML)	$1.17	$2.99
12 Axle A Double (CML)	$1.38	$2.53
9 Axle B Double (HML)	$1.19	$2.78
12 Axle A Double (HML)	$1.48	$2.45

Table 4 - Cost to Council per kilometre of truck movement

It is estimated that all restricted access movements on Council roads are currently costing Council $675,000 per year in damage and wear and tear to our road network. This is expected to continually increase with costs incurred to Council to be at $1.35m per year by 2035 assuming a similar increase in restricted access vehicles is observed over the next 10 years as what Council has seen in the previous 10 years.

Council receives no payments from the application fees which applicants make for NHVR applications. To date Council receives no funding directly linked to the increase in restricted access vehicles on our roads.

OLG 23a Guideline consideration

This report will have implications on the future Councils as it may increase truck movements and reduce asset life of Council road assets. It however doesn’t create a binding agreement on future Councils as each Council are able to amend or remove gazette approval created by this Council resolution at any time.

Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

28 October 2025

8.6.2 Asset Management Strategy and Asset Management Plans for Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council

DOCUMENT NUMBER

447881

REPORTING OFFICER

Thomas Hogg, Acting Mangaer Engineering Gundagai

AUTHORISING OFFICER

Trevor Dando, Acting Deputy General Manager Operations

RELEVANCE TO COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN

3. Protected and enhanced environment

3.4 Greater efficiency in the use of resources

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

There are no Financial implications associated with this report, however will guide effective decision making regarding financial implications related to asset management.

LEGISLATIVE IMPLICATIONS

There are no Legislative implications associated with this report.

POLICY IMPLICATIONS

The documents presented in this report are required under the Integrated Planning and Reporting Framework.

ATTACHMENTS

1. CGRC Asset Management Strategy ⇩

2. CGRC Asset Management Plan - Buildings, Parks and Waste ⇩

3. CGRC Asset Management Plan - Fleet ⇩

4. CGRC Asset Management Plan - Sewer ⇩

5. CGRC Asset Management Plan - Stormwater ⇩

6. CGRC Asset Management Plan - Transport ⇩

7. CGRC Asset Management Plan - Water ⇩

8. CGRC Asset Management Maturity Assessment ⇩

Recommendation

That Council adopt the following documents:

a. CGRC Asset Management Strategy

b. CGRC Asset Management Plan - Buildings, Parks and Waste

c. CGRC Asset Management Plan - Fleet

d. CGRC Asset Management Plan - Sewer

e. CGRC Asset Management Plan - Stormwater

f. CGRC Asset Management Plan - Transport

g. CGRC Asset Management Plan - Water

h. CGRC Asset Management Maturity Assessment

Introduction

Council has assets with a current value in excess of $600,000,000. It is in Councils best interest to have a clear strategy and plan on how best to manage these assets to ensure that best value for money can be achieved. Council intends to achieve this by ensuring that asset management plans align with and compliment other plans which Council is also required to produce.

The Local Government Act 1993 sets a mandated framework which all Councils must follow across NSW to ensure that all plans work together to provide a clear, consistent and objective guide for Council to operate under. The framework is called the Integrated Planning and Reporting Framework.

A diagram of a community strategy

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Discussion

Council have prepared the following documents, which align with the “Asset Management Strategy and Plans” component of the Integrated Planning and Reporting framework:

1) Asset Management Policy. This was adopted by Council on 25 March 2025 and has provided the strategic direction for the development of the documents which are seeking adoption in this report.

2) Asset Management Strategy 2025-2030. This Asset Management Strategy is prepared to assist Council in improving the way it delivers services from infrastructure including roads, bridges, paths, stormwater drainage, parks and recreation, buildings, fleet, water and sewer. Adopting this asset management strategy will assist Council in providing services needed by the community in a financially sustainable manner. This Asset Management Strategy is prepared following a review of the Council’s service delivery practices, asset management maturity and fits with Council’s vision for the future. This strategy outlines an Asset Management Improvement Plan detailing a program of tasks to be completed in order to bring Council to a minimum ‘core’ level of asset maturity and competence.

3) Asset Management Plans (AM Plan) details information about infrastructure assets with actions required to provide an agreed level of service in the most cost-effective manner while outlining associated risks. The plan defines the services to be provided, how the services are provided and what funds are required to provide over the 10-year planning period. The AM Plan will link to a Long-Term Financial Plan which typically considers a 10-year planning period. The following asset management plans have been developed and relate to the asset class in the title of the document:

a. CGRC Asset Management Strategy

b. CGRC Asset Management Plan - Buildings, Parks and Waste

c. CGRC Asset Management Plan - Fleet

d. CGRC Asset Management Plan - Sewer

e. CGRC Asset Management Plan - Stormwater

f. CGRC Asset Management Plan - Transport

g. CGRC Asset Management Plan - Water

h. CGRC Asset Management Maturity Assessment

Financial

Whilst these documents do not have any financial implications directly related to the documents, they will provide relevant information for Council to commence discussions about how to effectively manage assets. Examples of financial impacts may include that Council wishes to increase funding within certain asset classes to maintain the current level of service. It may be that Council wishes to reduce funding and/or reduce the current level of service.

OLG 23a Guideline consideration

The Asset management documentation within this report will provide advice on how best to manage assets. This will have a positive benefit in the long term as Council optimises expenditure on assets to best manage those assets. The documents are in line with Councils obligations under the Integrated Planning and Reporting framework.

Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

28 October 2025

8.7 Regional Services Gundagai

8.7.1 Gundagai Regional Services Report - September 2025

DOCUMENT NUMBER

447846

REPORTING OFFICER

Donna Britton, Operations Support Officer - Facilities

AUTHORISING OFFICER

Trevor Dando, Acting Deputy General Manager Operations

RELEVANCE TO COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN

5. Integrated and accessible region

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 September 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:

· Goal posts have been removed for the start of the cricket season.

· New drinking fountain and water bottle fill stations have been installed for use at Stan Crowe.

· Line marking for touch football has been completed.

· Fire mitigation works to villages has commenced.

· Mulching at the VIC has been completed.

· Garden beds up the main street have been prepared for planting.

Carberry Park Amenities Block Lift & Change:

· The new facility has been opened to the public with the old toilet block due to be demolished in the near future.

Visitor Information Centre:

· The VIC has opened with great support from the local community and tourists.

Gundagai Memorial Swimming Pool:

· With the pool season drawing closer the painting of the pools is scheduled to start 3^rd week in October.

Stan Crowe Oval Cricket Nets:

· The synthetic turf has been laid at the cricket nets.

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

Cemetery work activities this month include:

· There have been five interments in the previous period across the Gundagai Cemeteries.

· Maintenance across all cemeteries is routinely conducted.

Biosecurity:

· Required Weed Action Plan inspections, tasks and BIS records continue to be completed despite the status of the 25-26 WAP funding information/application not yet being released by DPIRD.

· In recent communications it has been advised the that due to the dissolution of the Regional Weed Coordinator Position contact regarding these matters contact will now be directed to the DPIRD Regional State Priority Weeds Coordinator.

Gundagai Public & Council Facilities income:

Gundagai RV Park Income September 2025

· 01/09/25 – 30/09/25 - Total Income $308.15

Gundagai Landfill/Transfer September 2025

· 01/09/25 – 30/09/25 - General Income $3,580.70

Gundagai Standpipe Income August 2025

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

2025	July	$3,013.61	13	$2,454.08
2025	August	$1,202.81	11	$1,424.58
2025	September	$2,543.68	12	$2,245.89
25/26	Totals	$6,760.10	36

Gundagai Saleyards Truck Wash August 2025

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

2025	July	$3,518.05	34	$3,945.32
2025	August	$3,254.40	32	$2,968.02
2025	September	$4,022.16	24	$2,943.21
25/26	Totals	$10,794.61	90

Compliance:

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

Companion Animal:

Council have had numerous roaming dog complaints over the previous month with the Ranger talking to residents involved and educating them on their responsibilities and requirements for pet ownership.

Financial

There are no further financial implications as all work has been carried out as per the approved 24/25 budget allocations.

OLG 23a Guideline consideration

There are no implications to the guidelines.

Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

28 October 2025

8.8 Regional Services Cootamundra

8.8.1 Regional Services Cootamundra Report - September 2025

DOCUMENT NUMBER

447137

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 September 2025.

Discussion

Parks & Gardens

Parks and Gardens staff have been undertaking general seasonal duties as they head into spring with plenty of mowing, whipper snipping/edging, spraying and pruning of all parks and gardens. Getting on the front foot in this area is vital to ensure a smooth transition into spring and summer.

The removal of two large Elm trees has been completed in Cooper Street. Due to the size and location of these trees, a contractor was engaged to carry out these works which took over two days to complete. Council staff were on site to provide traffic control during the first stage of removal to direct traffic whilst a crane was in operation to safely lower the upper branches.

Three trees were also removed from the carpark behind the Cootamundra library. This occurred to allow the extension of the carpark due to limited parking availability with the current layout.

Preparations are underway to change sporting fields to summer sport specifications. Goal posts have been removed from shared grounds, line marking completed, and cricket wickets uncovered and turfed surfaces maintained. Troubleshooting to sports field irrigation systems has been undertaken with repairs carried out as required.

Biosecurity

Cootamundra’s Biosecurity Officer and Regulatory Attendant have undertaken spraying of Cootamundra’s highway network, local roads, laneways and various other sites to manage the spread of weeds, and to keep all areas tidy heading into spring. These works will continue throughout the growing season.

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 87 transactions for the month, invoicing a total of $5,473.77.

Cemeteries

There were four burials conducted and one interment of ashes at the Cootamundra Lawn Cemetery in July. Two plaques were removed for refurbishment.

Slashing of the Wallendbeen Cemetery was completed before the peak growing period for the Conservation area.

Rabbit baiting has been undertaken at the Stockinbingal Cemetery.

Regulatory Services

Total Companion Animal registration fees collected for September amounted to $633.00.

Animal Statistics	Dogs	Cats
Seized	13	2
Released to Owner	4	0
Surrendered	4	0
Rehomed	8	1
Euthanised	0	1
Waiting for Impound Period	1	0
Waiting for Rehoming	2	0

One vehicle was impounded under the Public Spaces (Unattended Property) Act during September. Six impounded vehicles were sold.

Waste

The secondhand tip shop processed 100 transactions for September with a total of $701.57 in income. During this time staff have diverted 700 kilograms of waste from landfill into the shop to be repurposed.

A total of 360 tonnes of recycled crushed concrete was sold this month and a total of 114 tonnes of compost soil produced from green waste processed on site.

The Cootamundra landfill had a small fire combust in some builder’s rubble, which waste staff were able to contain with fire extinguishers and assistance from the RFS. It is believed the fire started from a lithium battery. Council staff will continue to educate the community on the dangers of incorrectly disposing of batteries including the promotion of free drop off for batteries at the Community Recycling Centres located at both Cootamundra and Gundagai Landfills.

Facilities

A new tap has been installed at the front of Ellwood’s Hall toilet block to allow access for watering the front gardens. Staff pressure washed the front of the hall using an elevated work platform to reach the top of the building to remove moss and dirt from the old brick work and paint in preparation for painting the front of the building by the Ellwood’s Hall committee.

The tiles in the female toilet block located at the Cootamundra caravan park had lifted in areas, cracking tiles and damaging the flooring. New tiles have been laid and new grout applied to fix the issues.

The Stephen Ward Room divider wall mechanism was badly damaged and non-operational. Staff pulled the wall apart and refurbished the mechanism so the wall can now open and close with ease.

Change rooms at the Cootamundra Pool have been scheduled for an upgrade to rectify water damage to the flooring. Works will commence within the next few weeks.

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

A screenshot of a computer

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Capital Works Projects

The fire exit doors located in the laneway of the Art Centre Cootamundra have been repositioned to allow the doors to open correctly giving clearance for disabled access The exit ramp from the fire doors has been installed, along with bollards in the laneway surrounding the pedestrian ramp.

The backup generator for the dedicated flood evacuation building at Cootamundra’s Bassingthwaighte Park is currently being installed and will be completed by the end of October.

Financial

All areas of expenditure relating to 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 23 September 2025

DOCUMENT NUMBER	446398
AUTHORISING OFFICER	Abb McAlister, Mayor
REPORTING OFFICER	Abb McAlister, Mayor
ATTACHMENTS	1. Rural Health Action Plan.docx ⇩ 2. Copy of email from REROC with suggested post and newsletter wording ⇩

DOCUMENT NUMBER	447062
AUTHORISING OFFICER	Abb McAlister, Mayor
REPORTING OFFICER	Abb McAlister, Mayor
ATTACHMENTS	Nil

DOCUMENT NUMBER	447541
AUTHORISING OFFICER	Abb McAlister, Mayor
REPORTING OFFICER	Abb McAlister, Mayor
ATTACHMENTS	Nil

REPORTING OFFICER	Bianca Berkrey, Youth and Inclusion Officer (Maternity Relief)
AUTHORISING OFFICER	Linda Wiles, Manager Business
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 Access and Inclusion Committee Meeting held on Wednesday 10 September 2025

DOCUMENT NUMBER	446295
REPORTING OFFICER	Teresa Breslin, Executive Assistant to Mayor and General Manager
AUTHORISING OFFICER	Roger Bailey, Interim General Manager