Agenda of Ordinary Council Meeting - Tuesday, 24 February 2026

Ordinary Council Meeting Minutes

27 January 2026

MINUTES OF Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council
Ordinary Council Meeting
HELD AT THE Council Chambers, Gundagai
ON Tuesday, 27 January 2026 AT 6:04PM

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

IN ATTENDANCE: Roger Bailey (Interim General Manager), Trevor Dando (Acting Deputy General Manager - Operations), Damian Smith (Acting Manager Finance), Linda Wiles (Manager Business), Lauren Dawes (Acting Manager Sustainable Development), Teresa Breslin (Executive Assistant)

1 Acknowledgement of Country

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

2 The Mayor welcomed Councillors and the Community

3 Apologies, Leave of Absence, and AUDIO-VISUAL attendance requests

3.1 Apologies

Resolution 001/2026

Moved: Cr Logan Collins

Seconded: Cr Rosalind Wight

That Council does not accept the apology of Cr Syed.

Carried

3.2 Leave of Absence

Nil

3.3 Audio-visual attendance request

Nil

4 Disclosures of Interest

Nil

5 Confirmation of Minutes

5.1 Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting of Council held on Tuesday 9 December 2025

Resolution 002/2026

Moved: Cr Les Cooper

Seconded: Cr David Graham

That the Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting of Council held on Tuesday 9 December 2025 be confirmed as a true and correct record of the meeting.

Carried

5.2 Minutes of the Extraordinary Meeting of Council held on Tuesday 16 December 2025

Resolution 003/2026

Moved: Cr Penny Nicholson

Seconded: Cr Gil Kelly

That the Minutes of the Extraordinary Meeting of Council held on Tuesday 16 December 2025 be confirmed as a true and correct record of the meeting.

Carried

PROCEDURAL MOTION

Moved: Cr Logan Collins

That Council consider agenda items 6.1, 8.1.1, 8.2.1, 8.2.2 8.2.3, 8.3.4, 8.3.5, 8.6.2 and 8.6.3 together on the Agenda.

Carried

Resolution 004/2026

Moved: Cr Logan Collins

Seconded: Cr Ethan Ryan

That Council adopt the recommendations for items 6.1, 8.1.1, 8.2.1, 8.2.2 8.2.3, 8.3.4, 8.3.5, 8.6.2 and 8.6.3 as outlined in the business paper.

Carried

6 Mayoral Minutes

6.1 Mayoral Minute - Councillor Engagements - 2 December 2025 - 16 January 2026

See RES 004/2026

Resolution 005/2026

Moved: Cr Logan Collins

Seconded: Cr Ethan Ryan

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

Carried

7 Reports from Committees

Nil

8 General Manager’s Report

8.1 General Manager Office

8.1.1 Country Mayors Association Meeting Minutes 14 November 2025

See RES 004/2026

Resolution 006/2026

Moved: Cr Logan Collins

Seconded: Cr Ethan Ryan

The Minutes of the Country Mayors Association Meetings held on 14 November 2025, attached to the report, be received and noted.

Carried

8.2 Business

8.2.1 Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee Annual Report 2024-25

See RES 004/2026

Resolution 007/2026

Moved: Cr Logan Collins

Seconded: Cr Ethan Ryan

That Council receives and notes the Annual Assessment and report of the Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee.

Carried

8.2.2 Muttama Hall Management s.355 Committee Ordinary Meeting Minutes, AGM Meeting Minutes and Membership

See RES 004/2026

Resolution 008/2026

Moved: Cr Logan Collins

Seconded: Cr Ethan Ryan

1. The Minutes of the Muttama Hall Management s.355 Committee Annual General Meeting (inclusive of the Chairperson’s Annual Report and the Treasurers Report), held on 12 November 2025, attached to the report, be received and noted.

2. The Minutes of the Muttama Hall Management s.355 Committee Ordinary Meeting held on 12 November 2025, attached to the report, be received and noted.

3. The office bearers and membership of the Muttama Hall Management s.355 Committee as detailed in the report, be endorsed.

Carried

8.2.3 Cootamundra Showground Users Group s.355 Committee Ordinary Meeting Minutes, AGM Meeting Minutes and Membership

See RES 004/2026

Resolution 009/2026

Moved: Cr Logan Collins

Seconded: Cr Ethan Ryan

1. The Minutes of the Showground Users Group s.355 Committee Annual General Meeting (inclusive of the Chairperson’s Annual Report and the Treasurers Report), held on 19 November 2025, attached to the report, be received and noted.

2. The Minutes of the Showground Users Group s.355 Committee Ordinary Meeting held on 19 November 2025, attached to the report, be received and noted.

3. The office bearers and membership of the Showground Users Group s.355 Committee as detailed in the report, be endorsed.

Carried

8.2.4 Section 355 Committee Meeting Minutes

Resolution 010/2026

Moved: Cr Rosalind Wight

Seconded: Cr Gil Kelly

The Minutes of the s.355 Committee Meetings, attached to the report, be received and noted.

Carried

8.3 Finance

8.3.1 Finance Update - December 2025

Resolution 011/2026

Moved: Cr David Graham

Seconded: Cr Penny Nicholson

That the Finance Update report for the month of December 2025, be noted.

Carried

8.3.2 Restricted Cash Reconciliation - December 2025

Resolution 012/2026

Moved: Cr David Graham

Seconded: Cr Les Cooper

The Restricted Cash Reconciliation report for the period ending 31 December 2025, be received and noted.

Carried

8.3.3 Instance of Excessive Water Usuage - Assessment 11016870

Resolution 013/2026

Moved: Cr David Graham

Seconded: Cr Gil Kelly

That:

1. The Property Owner identified as assessment number 11016870 be charged the property's normal quarterly average consumption for the billing period 5 November 2024 to 6 February 2025 and the balance of water charges, sewer usage charges, liquid trade waste and interest resulting from the abnormal meter reading, be written off.

2. Council write to the External Auditors expressing concern that a large outstanding water debtor was not identified during the audit process.

Carried

8.3.4 Procurement Policy

See RES 004/2026

Resolution 014/2026

Moved: Cr Logan Collins

Seconded: Cr Ethan Ryan

The Procurement Policy, attached to the report, be adopted.

Carried

8.3.5 Investment Report - December 2025

See RES 004/2026

Resolution 015/2026

Moved: Cr Logan Collins

Seconded: Cr Ethan Ryan

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

Carried

8.4 Sustainable Development

8.4.1 DA 2025/123 - 3 Lot Subdivision with upgraded driveway and water connections - 186 Jugiong Road, Cootamundra

Resolution 016/2026

Moved: Cr Ethan Ryan

Seconded: Cr Logan Collins

That Council approves DA 2025/123 subject to conditions of consent as outlined in the accompanying Draft Notice of Determination and authorise minor amendments to correct any errors as required prior to issuing the final determination.

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

Carried

8.4.2 DA 2025/130 - Proposed change of use - 22 Adams Street, Cootamundra

Resolution 017/2026

Moved: Cr Logan Collins

Seconded: Cr Rosalind Wight

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, and subject to an additional consent condition:

- The doors on the side of the building are to be closed when classes are being conducted. Condition Reason: To protect the amenity of the surrounding properties and occupants.

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

Carried

8.5 Engineering Cootamundra

8.5.1 Cootamundra Engineering Report - December 2025

Resolution 018/2026

Moved: Cr Les Cooper

Seconded: Cr Ethan Ryan

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

Carried

8.6 Engineering Gundagai

8.6.1 Gundagai Engineering Report - December 2025

Resolution 019/2026

Moved: Cr David Graham

Seconded: Cr Penny Nicholson

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

Carried

8.6.2 Draft Recycled Water Management Policy

See RES 004/2026

Resolution 020/2026

Moved: Cr Logan Collins

Seconded: Cr Ethan Ryan

The Draft Recycled Water Management Policy attached to the report be adopted.

Carried

8.6.3 Draft Drinking Water Quality Policy

See RES 004/2026

Resolution 021/2026

Moved: Cr Logan Collins

Seconded: Cr Ethan Ryan

The Draft Drinking Water Quality Policy attached to the report be adopted.

Carried

8.6.4 Draft Gundagai Water Restrictions Policy

Resolution 022/2026

Moved: Cr David Graham

Seconded: Cr Penny Nicholson

The Draft Gundagai Water Restrictions Policy attached to the report be adopted.

Carried

8.6.5 Draft Gundagai Water Restrictions Procedure

Resolution 023/2026

Moved: Cr Penny Nicholson

Seconded: Cr Ethan Ryan

The Draft Gundagai Water Restrictions Procedure attached to the report be adopted.

Carried

8.7 Regional Services Gundagai

8.7.1 Gundagai Regional Services Report - December 2025

Resolution 024/2026

Moved: Cr David Graham

Seconded: Cr Rosalind Wight

The Gundagai Regional Services report for December 2025 be noted.

Carried

8.8 Regional Services Cootamundra

8.8.1 Cootamundra Regional Services Report - December 2025

Resolution 025/2026

Moved: Cr Les Cooper

Seconded: Cr Ethan Ryan

That:

1. The Cootamundra Regional Services report for December 2025 be received and noted.

2. Council’s Regional Services staff be congratulated for the exceptional work that they undertook in preparing for the Australia Day events.

3. Council’s Regional Services staff be congratulated for the presentation of the Cootamundra Cemetery over the Christmas period.

Carried

9 Motion of which Notice has been Given

Nil

10 Questions with Notice

10.1 Question with Notice - Cr Wight - Feed Lot on Jugiong Road Cootamundra

Resolution 026/2026

Moved: Cr Rosalind Wight

Seconded: Cr Ethan Ryan

The response to the Question with Notice on Feed Lot on Jugiong Road Cootamundra be noted.

Carried

10.2 Question with Notice - Cr Wight - The use of external Town Planner

Resolution 027/2026

Moved: Cr David Graham

Seconded: Cr Rosalind Wight

The response to the Question with Notice on the use of external Town Planner be noted.

Carried

10.3 Question with Notice - Cr Wight - Visitor Information Centre (VIC) at the Art Centre Cootamundra

Resolution 028/2026

Moved: Cr David Graham

Seconded: Cr Les Cooper

The response to the Question with Notice on the Visitor Information Centre (VIC) at the Art Centre be noted.

Carried

10.4 Question with Notice - Cr Cooper - 59-61 Hay Street

Resolution 029/2026

Moved: Cr Logan Collins

Seconded: Cr Les Cooper

That:

1. The response to the Question with Notice on 59-61 Hay Street Cootamundra, be noted.

2. The Property Owner of 59-61 Hay Street be charged the property's normal quarterly average consumption for the billing period 01 December 2020 – 28 February 2021 and the balance of water charges and interest resulting from the abnormal meter reading, be written off.

Carried

11 Confidential Items

11.1 Closed Council Report

Resolution 030/2026

Moved: Cr Les Cooper

Seconded: Cr Penny Nicholson

1. Council entered Closed Council at 7.28pm.

2. Items 11.2, 11.3, 11.4 and 11.5 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, 11.3, 11.4 and 11.5 be withheld from the press and public.

Carried

11.2 Question with Notice - Cr Wight - 113 Thompson Street Cootamundra Occupation Certificate

Resolution 031/2026

Moved: Cr Rosalind Wight

Seconded: Cr Ethan Ryan

The response to the Question with Notice on 113 Thompon Street Cootamundra Occupation Certificate be noted.

Carried

11.3 Question with Notice - Cr McAlister - Slate Wall at Flash Jack Gundagai

Resolution 032/2026

Moved: Cr David Graham

Seconded: Cr Penny Nicholson

Council note that compliance action is being pursued by Council in relation to the Slate Wall at Flash Jacks Gundagai.

Carried

11.4 Potential Sale of Bald Hill Quarry Landfill - South West Regional Waste Management Group

Resolution 033/2026

Moved: Cr Gil Kelly

Seconded: Cr David Graham

That Council note the report on the Bald Hill Quarry.

Carried

11.5 Human Resources Report

Resolution 034/2026

Moved: Cr David Graham

Seconded: Cr Les Cooper

That the confidential information in the Human Resources report be noted.

Carried

Resumption of Open Council Meeting

Resolution 035/2026

Moved: Cr Ethan Ryan

Seconded: Cr Les Cooper

That the Open Council meeting resume at 7:51pm.

Carried

Announcement of Closed Council Resolutions

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

The Meeting closed at 7:52pm


CHAIRPERSON	GENERAL MANAGER

Cootamundra-Gundagai Local Transport Forum Minutes

12 February 2026

MINUTES OF Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council
Cootamundra-Gundagai Local Transport Forum
HELD AT THE Alby Schultz Meeting Centre, Cootamundra
ON Thursday, 12 February 2026 AT 10:00am

PRESENT: Dennis Palmer (Local Electorate Representative), Greg Mineham (Lead Community & Safety Partner), Justin Knewstub (Sergeant Crime Coordinator Riverina Police), Wade Sheales (Community and Safety Support Officer)

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

1 Acknowledgement of Country

2 Apologies and Leave of Absenc

2.1 Apologies

Ben Smith (Sergeant Riverina Highway Patrol)

Maxine Imrie (Bus Service Operators Representative)

Logan Collins (CGRC Councillor)

Les Cooper (CGRC Councillor)

2.2 Leave of Absence

Nil

3 Disclosures of Interest

Nil

4 Confirmation of Minutes

4.1 Minutes of the Cootamundra-Gundagai Local Transport Forum Meeting held on Thursday 13 November 2025

Recommendation

That the Minutes of the Cootamundra-Gundagai Local Transport Forum Meeting held on Thursday 13 November 2025 be confirmed as a true and correct record of the meeting.

Discussion:

TfNSW provided an update on several outstanding traffic management matters:

1. Old Gundagai Road / Olympic Highway Intersection

TfNSW reaffirmed its previous position regarding the request to replace the existing GIVE WAY controls with STOP signs at the intersection of Old Gundagai Road and the Olympic Highway. Following review, TfNSW advised that its decision remains unchanged and no amendments to the current signage will be undertaken.

2. Grogan Road – Temporary Speed Restriction Request

TfNSW advised that the proposal to implement a temporary speed restriction on Grogan Road has been referred back to Council. Council is required to formally seek approval from TfNSW under Sections 115 and 116 of the Roads Act to authorise the installation of a temporary speed limit for a defined period and purpose. Implementation cannot proceed without TfNSW consent.

? 3. Adjungbilly and Gobarralong Road – Temporary Speed Restriction Request

Similarly, the request for a temporary speed restriction in Adjungbilly has been referred back to Council. TfNSW reiterated that Council must obtain approval under Sections 115 and 116 prior to establishing any temporary speed limit changes

Confirmation of the minutes was agreed to by Dennis and Justin.

5 Reports

5.1 West Street and Sheridan Street Intersection Safety

Recommendation

That Council install 40 km/h speed pavement decals at the entry point of the Sheridan Street High Pedestrian Activity Area when exiting the Hume Highway.

Discussion:

TfNSW confirmed its agreement to the installation of 40 km/h road‑surface decals, ensuring consistency with the existing C‑size speed limit signage currently in place.

It was further noted that all existing 40 km/h speed limit signs associated with the Heavy Pedestrian Activity Area (HPAA) require the addition of supplementary signage (R9‑213N), depicting pedestrians, to be installed directly beneath each speed sign to meet compliance requirements.

A suggestion was raised for consideration regarding the installation of traffic‑calming blisters on both sides of the roadway on the approaches to the HPAA. This measure would assist road users in recognising the change in road environment and reinforce the reduced speed environment.

5.2 Prioritised Raised Pedestrian Crossing on West Street, Gundagai

Recommendation

That Transport for NSW (TfNSW) undertake further investigations into the feasibility and appropriateness of appointing a crossing guard at the existing Gundagai Public School pedestrian crossing on West Street.

Discussion:

The Forum agreed that the proposal to seek funding for the construction of a raised pedestrian crossing on West Street, to support pedestrian movements associated with Gundagai Public School, be laid on the table pending further investigation by TfNSW into the viability of appointing a crossing supervisor at the existing crossing point.

During the discussion, concerns were raised regarding the 250‑metre sensitive receiver distance and the potential impacts on neighbouring properties. It was noted that consultation with affected property owners will be required prior to progressing any further with the raised crossing proposal.

5.3 Prioritised Raised Pedestrian Crossings on Sheridan Street, Gundagai

Recommendation

That Council does not endorse the construction of two raised pedestrian crossings on Sheridan Street to replace the previously removed pedestrian crossings associated with the beautification and rejuvenation project of main street.

Discussion:

The Forum endorsed the recommendation not to proceed with the installation of raised pedestrian crossings within the Heavy Pedestrian Activity Area (HPAA) on Sheridan Street.

It was noted that consultation with affected business owners will be required to ensure the community fully understands the implications of installing a pedestrian crossing, particularly the associated loss of parking—20 metres of No Stopping on the approach and 10 metres on the departure side. Additional considerations include drainage requirements and the associated construction costs.

NSW Police advised that they will undertake further investigation into reported pedestrian near‑miss incidents on Sheridan Street.

5.4 Muttama Village Safety Concerns

Recommendation

That Council pursue external funding to upgrade the narrow Reef Creek Bridge and to construct a dedicated bus bay at the existing bus stop on Muttama Road, in order to enhance road‑user safety within the Muttama township.

Discussion:

The Forum agreed with the recommendation to seek funding for the upgrade of Reef Creek Bridge and the bus stop within the Muttama township.

Suggestions were raised regarding the deployment of traffic counters to collect speed data, as well as increasing the size of the existing 80 km/h speed limit signs to C‑size to support improved driver compliance.

TfNSW advised Council that a more appropriate sign type is available for the narrow bridge, and further details will be provided.

Concerns were also raised regarding the presence of unnecessary repeater speed signs on the southern side of Reef Creek Bridge. TfNSW confirmed that Council may remove these signs as they are not providing any benefit.

5.5 Temora x Berthong x Boundary Road Intersection Safety

Recommendation

That Council seek funding to upgrade the Temora Street, Boundary Road and Berthong Road intersection in Cootamundra to improve compliance and road user safety.

Discussion:

The Forum agreed that Council seek funding for intersection improvements at this intersection to enhance safety. TfNSW advised that a staggered‑intersection treatment may offer a more effective solution by reducing the likelihood of vehicles running through the intersection and addressing issues associated with the existing poor alignment. Concerns were raised about traffic cueing on Temora Road with regard to the staggered intersection.

Given the location’s frequent use by heavy vehicles, the Forum noted that any proposed design must carefully consider turning movements and associated operational requirements. It was agreed that detailed design development will need to be undertaken with these factors in mind prior to seeking funding.

5.6 Cootamundra Police Station Restricted Parking

Recommendation

That Council extend the existing Police Cars Only restricted‑parking signage further north along Cooper Street, toward the next driveway exit, to improve visibility and ensure unobstructed access for Police vehicles.

Discussion:

The Forum considered the visibility concerns raised by NSW Police and agreed that the existing Police Cars Only parking restriction should be extended northwards to the driveway immediately adjacent to the police station. This adjustment is intended to improve sight distance and enhance operational safety for police vehicles entering and exiting the site.

5.7 Accessible Parking Space on Wallendoon Street, Cootamundra

Recommendation

That Council install a single accessible car park, incorporating a shared zone, directly in front of the disability-friendly public toilets located on Wallendoon Street.

Discussion:

The Forum agreed with the recommendation to install a single accessible parking space in front of the dedicated toilet facilities on Wallendoon Street. It was further suggested that the introduction of time‑restricted parking be considered to ensure ongoing availability of the accessible space for community members who require it.

5.8 Accessible Parking Space for the Bush Chemist on Parker Street

Recommendation

That Council install a single accessible parking space, including an adjacent shared zone, to enhance access for patrons of the Bush Chemist on Parker Street, Cootamundra.

Discussion:

The Forum did not support the installation of an accessible parking space on Parker Street in front of the Bush Chemist, noting the close proximity of existing accessible‑friendly parking spaces in the area. It was confirmed that the Cootamundra township already meets legislative requirements for accessible parking provision.

The Forum also acknowledged that accessible parking spaces require additional clearance and manoeuvring space, which would further reduce general parking availability in an area where parking demand is already high.

5.9 Upcoming Events

Recommendation

That the list of upcoming reports be noted by the Forum.

Discussion:

The Forum noted the schedule of upcoming events, including the addition of the Gundagai Show, which is set to take place on 14 February 2026.

5.10 General Business

Discussions:

1. Request for allocated customer parking out the front of 53 Mackay Street, Cootamundra.

The forum did not support the request to establish customer parking within a residential area, noting that substantial parking is already available in the surrounding vicinity. The forum agreed that the introduction of dedicated customer parking in this location is not warranted.

2. Adjungbilly village temporary speed reduction.

As noted in the confirmation of the previous forum, council will formally request written consent from TfNSW to implement a temporary speed restriction throughout the township of Adjungbilly under sections 115 and 116 of the roads act. This request is being made in response to increased vehicle movements associated with a major infrastructure project.

3. Dangerous Driving Concerns on Rinkin Street, Cootamundra

NSW Police advised that they are aware of the concerns regarding dangerous driving on Rinkin Street and are actively monitoring the situation.

4. School Bus Zone Compliance

NSW Police advised that they are monitoring the situation closely and will undertake further education and enforcement blitzes at local schools to address the concerns raised.

5. E-Device Enforcement on Parker Street

NSW Police advised that they are aware of concerns regarding unlawful e‑device activity on Parker Street and are actively monitoring the situation.

Late Items:

6. Review of Line Marking at the Berthong Road and Temora Street Intersection

A comment was raised that the BB line marking at the intersection of Berthong Road and Temora Street is causing confusion for motorists and requires a review by Council engineers.

7. Relocation of 100km/h Speed Sign on Berthong Road.

Council has requested that TfNSW review the placement of the 100 km/h speed limit sign on the southern side of the railway crossing on Berthong Road and consider relocating it to the northern side. This adjustment is intended to improve safety and ensure the speed transition is appropriately positioned in relation to the crossing.

The Forum closed at 11:22am.

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

CHAIRPERSON GENERAL MANAGER

Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

24 February 2026

7.2 Business

7.2.1 Relocation of the Cootamundra Visitor Information Centre

DOCUMENT NUMBER

458445

REPORTING OFFICER

Linda Wiles, Manager Business

AUTHORISING OFFICER

Roger Bailey, Interim General Manager

RELEVANCE TO COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN

2. A region for the future

2.1 Recognised as a must-visit tourist destination

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

$20,000 available within Tourism Economic Development Budget.

LEGISLATIVE IMPLICATIONS

There are no Legislative implications associated with this report.

POLICY IMPLICATIONS

There are no Policy implications associated with this report.

ATTACHMENTS

1. Cootamundra VIC Relocation Business Case ⇩

Recommendation

That Council approves the relocation of the Cootamundra Visitors Information Centre from its current location to the Cootamundra Arts Centre, as detailed in the business case attached to the report.

Introduction

In response to the 2024 review of the Cootamundra Visitor Information Centre by the Australian Visitor Information Centres Association (AVIC), feedback from the Heritage Centre 355 Committee, interest from the Arts Centre Cootamundra in hosting the VIC, and the continued growth of the visitor economy, Council has undertaken a review of the current operation and location of the Cootamundra Visitor Information Centre. This review was undertaken to ensure visitor services remain fit for purpose, sustainable, and aligned with the changing needs of visitors, the community, and the local economy.

Discussion

Cootamundra Visitor Economy

In 2025, tourism and the visitor economy contributed $37.21 million in value added to the Cootamundra local economy. During this period, more than 8,000 people were recorded visiting the Heritage Centre, the Visitor Information Centre, or the Bradman Birthplace.

In addition to these recorded visitors, between 24 and 27 bus services arrive and depart Cootamundra each week, bringing a steady flow of passengers into the town. These passenger movements are not currently captured in official visitor economy data; however, they represent hundreds of people each week who are physically present in Cootamundra, often with time to spare and money to spend, yet remain uncounted in existing visitor statistics. A significant number of people who pass through regional towns are not captured in official visitor statistics, despite physically spending time in the community.

The role of Visitor Information Centres

Visitor Information Centres (VIC) play a critical role in supporting the visitor economy, strengthening local business outcomes, and promoting regional identity. However, the current model, based within the Heritage Centre, presents operational, spatial, and sustainability challenges.

Why Change Is Required

The current VIC arrangement faces several limitations:

? Limited space restricts retail, digital tools, and interpretive displays

? Heavy reliance on ageing volunteers with declining capacity

? Inconsistent service quality and training capacity

? Inability to expand merchandise and revenue streams

? No capacity to introduce entry or experience-based income models

? Volunteers have expressed a desire for the Visitor Information Centre to be relocated

Proposed Plan

This plan proposes relocating the VIC to The Arts Centre Cootamundra to create a modern, visible, and sustainable visitor servicing hub.

The relocation will:

? Improve visitor experience and accessibility

? Strengthen tourism and arts integration

? Reduce operational pressure on Heritage Centre volunteers

? Protect NSW AVIC accreditation

? Support long-term growth of the visitor economy

This model aligns with contemporary best practice in visitor servicing, where VICs function as destination hubs rather than brochure outlets.

In addition, alternative models such embedding the VIC in a private business, including decentralised visitor hubs, digital-only services, and retaining the current model without change, were considered. However, none fully meet the needs of Cootamundra’s visitor economy. Each option either results in the loss of personal service and NSW AVIC accreditation, creates accessibility and wayfinding challenges, or limits the ability to modernise and grow visitor servicing. A physical, accredited Visitor Information Centre, supported by strong digital services and strategic improvements, remains essential to protect service quality, visitor experience, and economic impact for the town.

Proposed Business Model

The Visitor Information Centre will be relocated to The Arts Centre Cootamundra and will operate as:

? A co-located tourism and cultural hub

? A council-managed service supported by CGRC staff and volunteers

? A space for regional storytelling, merchandise sales, and visitor bookings

The centre will be staffed by a roster of trained volunteers, supported by Tourism and Economic Development staff to ensure service quality, continuity, and compliance. Expressions of interest have been received from both existing and new volunteers who are keen to support the ongoing operation of the VIC. To maintain accreditation and consistent visitor service levels, the centre will be required to be staffed for a minimum of 38 hours per week. Currently, a group of volunteers is committed to providing at least 24 hours of volunteer support, with additional volunteers having expressed interest in participating. A firm timetable and confirmed rostered hours will be finalised once the relocation has been formally approved.

Relocation Logistics

In preparation for the relocation, The Arts Centre Cootamundra has cleared the former meeting room to create a dedicated space for the Visitor Information Centre. The room is light, open, and welcoming, featuring wide arched entry doors that provide strong street presence and easy, accessible entry for visitors. The open floor area allows flexibility for information displays, merchandise, digital touchpoints, and visitor seating, while the clean lines and neutral finishes create a calm and inviting environment.

The space connects naturally with the broader Arts Centre, reinforcing the concept of a shared cultural and tourism hub. With good visibility, generous ceiling height, and an uncluttered layout, the room is well suited to being transformed into a modern, friendly visitor welcome point that can comfortably accommodate both visitors and volunteers while showcasing local stories, products, and experiences.

This model ensures compliance with NSW AVIC standards while positioning the VIC where visitors naturally congregate, increasing incidental visitation and dwell time.

Value Proposition

Benefits to the Heritage Centre

? Reduced frontline pressure on volunteers

? Return of space for collection storage and exhibitions

? Restoration of kitchen for community use

? Opportunity to refocus on heritage interpretation

? Enhanced visitor focus for guest who are specifically interested in heritage and the museum

? Improved volunteer wellbeing and succession planning

? Improved resource allocation

Benefits to the Visitor Information Centre

? Improved Visibility & Accessibility

? The Arts Centre enjoys a central location, street presence, and regular community traffic through exhibitions, workshops, and events

? Better physical accessibility and signage opportunities

? Increased Engagement

? Visitors can interact with live culture, performances, and exhibitions — making their introduction to Cootamundra more immersive

? Opportunities to offer guided tours or packages that link arts, heritage, nature, and local food

? Operational Efficiency

? Shared staff model reduces overheads and improves coverage across weekdays and weekends

? Ability to cross-promote visitor experiences

Benefits to The Arts Centre Cootamundra

? Increased foot traffic from visitors accessing the Visitor Information Centre, creating greater exposure for exhibitions, performances, and events

? Stronger connection between arts, culture, and tourism, positioning the Arts Centre as a central hub for community and visitor activity

? Enhanced visibility and profile of the Arts Centre as a key destination within the town for both locals and visitors

? Opportunities for cross-promotion of exhibitions, workshops, movies, and events through visitor servicing and tourism marketing

? Additional support through VIC volunteers and staff assisting with exhibition openings, movie bookings, and general enquiries

? More vibrant and activated front-of-house space, contributing to a welcoming and lively atmosphere

? Stronger partnerships with Council tourism staff, supporting joint programming, storytelling, and promotion of local creative talent

Economic Benefits

A modern VIC influences:

? Length of stay

? Visitor dispersal across the region

? Spend in local businesses

? Event attendance

? Regional brand perception

These outcomes directly support Council economic development and tourism strategies.

Strategic Alignment

This business plan aligns with:

? Community Strategic Plan objectives for future-focused services

? Tourism and Economic Development Strategy priorities

? Visitor Servicing Guidelines

? Regional destination growth goals

? Volunteer sustainability and wellbeing outcomes

Conclusion

Relocating the Cootamundra Visitor Information Centre to The Arts Centre Cootamundra represents a commercially sound, strategically aligned, and community-centred investment in the future of visitor servicing.

This business plan demonstrates that the proposed model:

? Protects accreditation and reputation

? Improves financial sustainability

? Strengthens community and cultural outcomes

? Enhances the visitor experience

? Supports long-term tourism and economic growth

The relocation positions the VIC not simply as an information point, but as a destination hub that reflects the evolving expectations of visitors and the aspirations of the Cootamundra community.

Financial

Budget allocation from Tourism Economic Development of $20,000 is available for relocation, set up and support expenses. Once relocation is complete merchandise and revenue streams can be realised to assist in cost recovery of the centre.

OLG 23a Guideline consideration

The report does not conflict with guidelines.

Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

24 February 2026

7.2.2 Commissioning of a Bronze Statue Honouring Bob Holder

DOCUMENT NUMBER

458454

REPORTING OFFICER

Linda Wiles, Manager Business

AUTHORISING OFFICER

Roger Bailey, Interim General Manager

RELEVANCE TO COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN

2. A region for the future

2.1 Recognised as a must-visit tourist destination

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

Grant Funding Required.

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. Receive and note the outcomes of the Bob Holder Statue Community Feedback Survey.

2. Defer the project pending identification of external funding or inclusion in a future Delivery Program and Operational Plan; and

3. Invite the Cootamundra Rodeo Committee to consider leading the project independently, with Council officers to provide in-kind or administrative assistance where appropriate and subject to available resources.

Introduction

At its Ordinary Meeting of 22 April 2025, Council resolved as follows: (RES 089/2025)

That Council:

1. Receive a report outlining, scope, preliminary costs, funding strategies and results following community consultation.

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

3. Undertake community consultation with:

? Mr. Bob Holder and his family;

? The Cootamundra Rodeo Committee;

? Parker and Wallendoon Street business owners.

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

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

? Council’s own heritage and community enhancement budgets;

? Community fundraising and sponsorship opportunities.

Discussion

The Bob Holder Statue Community Feedback Survey was conducted between 18 and 27 September 2025 to gather community views on the proposal to commission a life-sized statue honouring Bob Holder for his outstanding contribution to rodeo and his significance as a local and national icon. The survey was widely promoted through Council media, social media, newspapers, CGRC newsletters and Snippets, and paper copies were available at the CGRC Front Office and Cootamundra Library, ensuring broad community participation.

A total of 213 responses were received. Although the response number was modest, overall community support for the proposal was strong.

Key concerns identified through the consultation included:

? The cost to ratepayers

? Ongoing maintenance requirements

? The risk of vandalism

Councillors were briefed on the consultation outcomes at a workshop held on 10 February 2026.

Discussion included:

? Current staff priorities and capacity

? Financial implications for Council

? The likelihood and availability of external grant funding

? Long-term maintenance responsibilities

During the workshop, suggestions were put forward to consider transferring responsibility for progressing the project to the Cootamundra Rodeo Committee, with Council providing assistance where appropriate.

Financial

Council does not have a current budget allocation for the project. Preliminary cost estimates indicate a minimum project cost of approximately $200,000, excluding ongoing maintenance and potential contingency expenses.

At present, available grant funding opportunities are minimal, reducing the likelihood of external financial support in the short term.

OLG 23a Guideline consideration

The report does not conflict with guidelines.

Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

24 February 2026

7.3 Finance

7.3.1 Finance Update - January 2026

DOCUMENT NUMBER

458169

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 January 2026, be noted.

Report

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

Operations

Income

The operational income is at 64% 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	$343,677	$445,000	77%	J
Business Department	$80,979	$240,000	34%	K	Budget includes Library Grants, VIC and other Community Services Grants to be received.
Engineering Cootamundra	$1,712,959	$3,114,989	55%	J	Estimated $1.6m expected from State Roads in coming weeks. Regional Roads Block Grant of $235,750 received 16/02/2026
Engineering Gundagai	$304,636	$829,988	37%	K	Regional Roads Block Grant of $235,750 received 16/02/2026
Executive Department	$129,670	$40,000	324%	J	High due to Workers Comp Insurance bonus received.
Finance Department	$3,257,489	$9,390,295	35%	J	Dec 25 QBR to move interest income budget of $1.3m to accounts where interest is received.
Rates Cootamundra	$6,930,098	$7,287,312	95%	J	This includes budget for Pension Rebate Subsidy for 2026. To be corrected in Dec 25 QBR.
Rates Gundagai	$4,789,534	$4,799,875	100%	J	This includes budget for Pension Rebate Subsidy for 2026. To be corrected in Dec 25 QBR
Services Cootamundra	$3,107,128	$3,733,588	83%	J	Includes Waste Charges Received
Services Gundagai	$1,311,850	$1,741,700	75%	J	Includes Waste Charges Received
Sewer Cootamundra	$1,489,958	$3,204,437	46%	J
Sewer Gundagai	$395,855	$895,677	44%	J
Water Cootamundra	$1,968,567	$3,777,200	52%	J
Water Gundagai	$996,847	$1,913,587	52%	J
Plant Hire - Gundagai	$770,542	$1,596,000	48%	K
Plant Hire - Cootamundra	$1,278,178	$2,204,000	58%	K
Total	$28,867,968	$45,213,647	64%

Expenditure

Operational Expenditure is at 52% when comparing actual to budget.

Department	Expense Actual	Expense Budget	% Spent	Result	Comment
Building Department	$825,360	$1,886,675	44%	J
Business Department	$2,156,489	$4,577,884	47%	J
Engineering Cootamundra	$5,166,791	$10,764,708	48%	J
Engineering Gundagai	$2,285,808	$4,454,380	51%	J
Executive Department	$1,088,542	$2,600,713	42%	J
Finance Department	$8,698,199	$11,033,752	79%	J	Dec 25 QBR to move depreciation budget to correct accounts.
Services Cootamundra	$2,709,262	$6,232,936	43%	J
Services Gundagai	$1,535,580	$2,926,363	52%	J
Sewer Cootamundra	$502,230	$2,237,237	22%	K	Capital projects prioritised over water & sewer for first half of 2026FY.
Sewer Gundagai	$539,802	$1,528,624	35%	K	Capital projects prioritised over water & sewer for first half of 2026FY.
Water Cootamundra	$1,770,239	$3,431,089	52%	J
Water Gundagai	$438,537	$1,713,593	26%	K	Grant Funded Capital projects prioritised over water & sewer for first half of 2026FY.
Total	$27,716,840	$53,387,954	52%

Capital

Income

Capital income is at 58% of budget when comparing actual to budget.

Asset Category	Total YTD.	Budget	% Received	Result	Comments
Plant & Equipment - Cootamundra	$147,976	$325,000	46%	J
Plant & Equipment - Gundagai	$117,415	$325,000	36%	J
Property Disposal – Cootamundra	$0		0%	J
Property Disposal – Gundagai	$0	$0	0%	J
Dog on the Tuckerbox larger parcel of land	$400,000	$497,500	0%	J	Need to adjust budget for GST. Annie Pyers Drive still being subdivided.
TOTAL	$665,391	$1,147,500	58%

Expenditure

Capital expenditure is at 33% of budget when comparing actual to budget.

Asset Category	Total YTD	Budget	% Spent	Result	Comments
Cootamundra Land	$7,537	$245,000	3%	K	Aerodrome Project Planning
Cootamundra Plant	$1,179,492	$1,490,000	79%	J
Cootamundra Roads	$886,091	$2,592,605	34%	K	Capital Works program started November 2025 expected completion April 26. Program on schedule.
Cootamundra Building	$50,552	$805,805	6%	K	Fisher Park Amenities and Showground Evac Centre Commencing. Mitchell Park Canteen has received quotes.
Cootamundra Recreation	$51,252	$107,000	48%	J
Cootamundra Waste	$0	$0	0%	J	Nil Budget
Cootamundra Bridges	$0	$20,000	0%	K	Bridge investigation TBC
Cootamundra Water	$177,028	$867,427	20%	J
Cootamundra Sewer	$2,053,760	$4,093,000	50%	J
Cootamundra Demerger	$115,619	$1,500,000	8%	K	Actual shows current year exp
Cootamundra PROPERTY	$1,500	$50,000	0%	K	Cemetery Masterplan TBC
Gundagai Bridges	$53,433	$203,433	26%	J
Gundagai Building	$155,679	$868,760	18%	J
Gundagai Demerger	$115,619	$1,500,000	8%	J	Actual shows current year exp
Gundagai Plant	$724,548	$1,300,000	56%	J
Gundagai PROPERTY	$16,600	$120,994	0%	K	Exp on Cemetery Toilet Block
Gundagai Recreation	$81,166	$836,680	10%	K	Gundagai Pool –checking operating expenditure for capital.
Gundagai Roads	$1,447,592	$2,367,569	61%	J
Gundagai Sewer	$253,400	$1,330,000	19%	K	Sewer Main Rehab, Caravan Park Pump, William St Pump S
Gundagai Waste	$0	$720,000	0%	K	Gundagai waste exp on hold until report completed (Cr Res)
Gundagai Water	$1,770,074	$6,338,959	28%	J
IT	$0	$75,000	0%	K	No IT purchases to date
Total	$9,140,940	$27,432,232	33%

Financial

There are no financial implications associated with this report.

OLG 23a Guideline consideration

Report purpose does not conflict with guidelines.

Demerger Costs Update

Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

24 February 2026

7.3.4 Stronger Communities Fund (SCF1) - Update

DOCUMENT NUMBER

458367

REPORTING OFFICER

Damian Smith, Acting Manager Finance

AUTHORISING OFFICER

Roger Bailey, Interim General Manager

RELEVANCE TO COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN

2. A region for the future

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

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. SCF1 Major Project Summary ⇩

2. SCF1 Community Grants Breakdown ⇩

Recommendation

The Stronger Communities Fund (SCF1) update report, be noted.

Introduction

The Stronger Communities Fund (SCF1) was established by the NSW Government following the 2016 council amalgamations. The purpose of the fund was to support newly merged councils in delivering community infrastructure, asset renewal, and local priority projects that would benefit residents and strengthen community cohesion.

SCF1 provided funding for a range of capital and community projects identified as priorities for the former council areas. The overarching aim was to deliver visible, community‑focused improvements during the transition period.

Grant funding sought and received - $10,000,000.00

Timeline

? Funding agreement executed 10^th June 2016

? Initial project list endorsed by Council in 2017

? First projects commenced 2017

? Final project completed 5^th December 2025

? Final reports submitted to OLG 3^rd February 2026

? Acquittal Certificate submitted to OLG - Pending

Project Delivery

A total of 66 projects were funded under SCF1 (including community grants). Of these 63 projects were completed with 3 being discontinued, having funds reallocated to other projects.

Delivered outcomes included:

? A broad program of community infrastructure upgrades, asset renewals and public domain improvements across the former council areas, supporting community wellbeing and local amenity.

? Completed most funded projects, with outcomes including facility refurbishments, park and recreation enhancements, equipment replacements, and improvements to community services.

? Strengthened local community assets by addressing long standing maintenance backlogs and delivering visible improvements that aligned with community priorities identified during the merger transition period.

? Supported local economic activity through engagement of local contractors, suppliers and service providers across multiple project categories.

? Enhanced safety, accessibility and usability of public spaces through targeted upgrades to buildings, open spaces, pathways, and community facilities.

? Delivered a diverse mix of small scale and larger capital works projects that collectively improved the quality, functionality and resilience of Council owned assets.

Projects not completed with funds reallocated

? Investment into Department of Education – The project did not proceed, and no works were undertaken. Following a review of priorities within the SCF1 program, a portion of the original allocation was redirected to support upgrades to Gundagai Pool Buildings. The remaining funds were reallocated in accordance with program requirements.

? Extension of Gundagai Water Supply to the Dog on the Tuckerbox - The project did not proceed as feasibility investigations confirmed that all viable options for extending treated water supply to the site exceeded the available SCF1 budget and could not be delivered within the program timeframe.

? Nangus Water Supply Works - The project did not proceed as investigations confirmed that delivering treated water to Nangus would significantly exceed the available SCF1 budget and could not be achieved within program constraints. A variation request was declined by OLG, and the funds were subsequently reallocated with OLG’s approval.

Projects with Major Scope Changes

Several projects required changes in scope due to cost increases, design changes, or feasibility issues, included:

? Stephen Ward Rooms Outdoor Area Construction – The scope was revised after further assessment showed the proposed outdoor area was not practical. The project was redirected to refurbish the indoor space instead, ensuring the facility remained functional and aligned with community needs while still meeting the intended objectives.

? Gundagai Visitors Information Centre – The scope was expanded to include a concrete pathway connecting the ramp access, demolition of the former toilet block, and installation of two security cameras to improve safety and visibility around the path and amenities.

? Some scope changes occurred earlier in the program under previous project/grant officers. These have been reviewed during final reconciliation to ensure compliance with SCF1 requirements.

Council Contributions

Some projects required additional Council funding to complete delivery due to:

? cost escalations

? market conditions

? expanded scope

? unforeseen site conditions

Council contributions were applied to ensure projects could be finalised within the SCF1 timeframe and to avoid returning unspent funds.

Interest Calculations

Interest accrued on unspent SCF1 funds held in Council’s account over the life of the program. In accordance with OLG requirements:

? Total Interest of $710,087 on SCF1 funds was calculated based on actual balances held over the duration of the program

? interest earned was added to the total available SCF1 budget for reconciliation purposes

? interest has been applied to eligible projects costs and to offset Council’s internal fund contributions, consistent with program guidelines

? The final distribution of interest between Council’s General Fund and Water Fund will be confirmed as part of the SCF1 acquittal process, following clarification from OLG.

Acquittal Process

With the final project reports now submitted, the remaining steps for acquittal are:

1. OLG completes review of final reports and SCF Round 1 Project Funding Summary.

2. OLG may request further clarification or supporting documentation. This however should be minimal.

3. Once accepted, OLG will issue formal confirmation that SCF1 is fully acquitted.

4. Council signs off on the acquittal certificate and closes the program.

Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

24 February 2026

7.4 Sustainable Development

7.4.1 DA 2025/119 - 18 Bourke Street, Cootamundra - Proposed demolition of existing dwelling and erection of a new dwelling

DOCUMENT NUMBER

458070

REPORTING OFFICER

Donna Clarke, Contract Town Planner

AUTHORISING OFFICER

Lauren Dawes, Acting Manager Sustainable Development

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

1. Assessment Report ⇩

2. Amended Plans (No Floor Plans).pdf ⇩

3. Amended Landscape Plan.pdf ⇩

4. Statement of Environmental Effects(Redacted).pdf ⇩

5. Proposed Floor Plans.pdf - Confidential (under separate cover)

Recommendation

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

? Application No.: DA2025/119

? Property: Lot C DP 382924, 18 Bourke Street COOTAMUNDRA NSW 2590

? Development: Demolition of the existing Dwelling and construction of a new two-storey Dwelling

REASONS FOR REFUSAL

1. Pursuant to Section 4.15(1)(a)(i) of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, the application does not demonstrate how the proposed development supports the Aims of the Plan under Section 1.2 (2)(f) of the Cootamundra Local Environmental Plan 2013 by satisfactorily managing the heritage resources of Cootamundra.

2. Pursuant to Section 4.15(1)(a)(i) of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, the proposed development does satisfy the requirements in relation to heritage conservation of the Cootamundra Heritage Conservation Area of Clause 5.10 of the Cootamundra Local Environmental Plan 2013.

3. Pursuant to Section 4.15(1)(a)(iii) of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, the proposed development does satisfy the requirements in relation to Chapter 2 – Residential Development and Chapter 7 – Heritage requirements of Cootamundra Development Control Plan 2013.

4. Pursuant to Section 4.15(1)(b) of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, the likely impacts of the proposed development are unacceptable, as the development would result in adverse heritage impacts, visual impacts and amenity impacts for the neighbouring properties.

5. Pursuant to Section 4.15(1)(c) of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, the site is not considered suitable for the proposed development, as it would impact the public domain in a negative way in terms of the impact on the heritage conservation area, visual impacts and amenity impacts for the neighbouring properties.

6. Pursuant to Section 4.15(1)(d) and (e) of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, the development is not in the public interest given the inconsistency of the overall size, bulk and scale of the proposed development with the aims of the LEP, heritage provisions and controls relating to residential development and sufficient justification for contravening the requirement has not been demonstrated.

Introduction

The proposed development involves the Demolition of the existing Dwelling and Construction of a new two-storey Dwelling at 18 Bourke Street, Cootamundra. Greater detail on the proposed development, along with plans of the proposed development are included in the attached DA assessment report (pages 1-4).

The subject site is a corner allotment on the southern side of Bourke Street and on the western side of the laneway and contains an existing single storey dwelling and freestanding outbuildings at the rear of the site. The site is located within the Cootamundra Heritage Conservation Area (HCA), listed under Schedule 5 of the Cootamundra Local Environmental Plan 2013. The attached DA assessment report provides a more detailed description of the locality and the site itself, including locality maps and aerial imagery (pages 4-8).

This application was neighbour notified in accordance with the Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council Community Participation Plan. During the notification period for the proposed development, five (5) unique submissions were received raising concerns with the proposed development, primarily related to the size of the new dwelling and its associated impacts and potential use beyond a single dwelling. Staff delegations do not provide for determination of applications where objections have been received, the application is therefore referred to Council for determination. Consideration of the submissions are detailed in the discussion below; with the full detailed assessment of the application is Attachment 1 – Assessment Report.

History of the development proposal

A detailed timeline and history of the proposed development can be found in the attached development application (DA) assessment report (pages 8-10). In summary, a development application was submitted in 2024 for demolition of the existing dwelling on the site, without any details of a new dwelling which is required for demolition of a dwelling within a HCA in order to determine the heritage impact.

Discussions began with Council’s Heritage Advisor in November 2024 regarding a single storey dwelling which was supported.

A pre-lodgement meeting was held in June 2025 and a larger dwelling with a bulky two storey component at the rear was presented and issues were identified regarding the definition of the use to be clearly identified, heritage concerns raised regarding the bulk and scale of the second storey and enclosing walls, issues regarding compliance with Cootamundra DCP 2011 identified including secondary frontage setback, building over sewer and concerns regarding the extent of hardstand proposed.

The subject application (DA 2025/119) was lodged on 22 October 2025 for a dwelling similar to that presented at the Pre-lodgement Meeting, with the key issues relating to the large size of the dwelling, in particular the two-storey component at the rear, heritage impact, non-compliance with DCP controls and extent of hardstand remaining unresolved.

On 15 December 2025, a Request for Information (RFI) letter was sent to the applicant, with issues raised relating to:

? The overall size of the dwelling results in a large footprint and excessively large two storey component. It was suggested that the proposed first floor to be deleted, scaled back considerably or moved towards the central portion of the site (or a combination or all) to minimise visual impact from Bourke Street, minimise heritage impacts and reduce amenity impacts for the neighbouring dwellings to the east, south and west.

? The location of a large two storey building with small setbacks close to the southern boundary results in overshadowing and overlooking which is not appropriate and setbacks must be increased.

? The position put forward in the Statement of Environmental Effects regarding DCP non compliances is not supported regarding ‘Secondary Building Line for Corner Lots’ and ‘Setbacks for garages, sheds carports’ and must be rectified through a re-design.

? Council’s Heritage Advisor has undertaken an assessment of the proposal and concluded that:

o It is necessary to reduce the bulk, height and impact of the rear 2 storey ‘wing’ by utilising a traditional ‘attic’ style roof with dormer windows, which will reduce the overall height.

o Solar panels are indicated on the proposed roof, however there is no mention of the solar panels and their impact on the Heritage Conservation Area is referenced in the lodged Statement of Heritage Impact. No solar panels are to be installed to the front section of the ‘north’ facing roof so that they are not seen from Bourke Street.

? The application makes no mention of tree removal, with trees/shrubs on the site, along the laneway in particular, which should be considered for retention and the design altered to enable their retention within the minimum DCP setbacks to integrate new built form into its setting and reduce its visibility.

? Insufficient setbacks are proposed to provide meaningful new landscaping and the setbacks to the east, south and western boundaries should be increased to accommodate proposed soft landscaping.

? Five (5) unique submissions were received, and it is recommended that the issues raised in the submission be considered in the redesign.

On 19 December 2025, a meeting was held with the applicant and their planning consultant to discuss the RFI letter where the applicant was encouraged to consider changes that can be made to achieve a balanced planning outcome of all issues including heritage, visual impact and amenity.

Additional information was submitted on 23 January 2026 and 3 February 2026 which comprised minor plan changes to the proposal only with no discernible change, minor changes to the landscape plan, additional perspectives and response letters from the applicant and their planning consultant.

Discussion

The proposed 1-2 storey dwelling is considered to be too large for the site resulting in an overdevelopment with adverse heritage, visual and amenity impacts, which has consistently been conveyed to the applicant since the revised design including a two-storey component was presented to Council at the Pre-lodgement Meeting.

In summary, the proposed development fails to meet the following requirements:

? Aims of the Plan under Section 1.2 (2)(f) of Cootamundra LEP 2013 - not satisfactorily managing the heritage resources of Cootamundra.

? Clause 5.10 of Cootamundra LEP 2013 - Clause 5.10(4) of the LEP requires Council to “consider the effect of the proposed development on the heritage significance of the item or area concerned” before granting consent. The proposed dwelling in its current form is expected to adversely impact upon heritage values of the site or area.

? 2.1 Building Line Setbacks of Cootamundra DCP 2013 – Secondary Building Line for Corner Lots - The proposed dwelling is setback 1m from the laneway boundary, which is the secondary frontage, however the DCP control requires a 3m setback. The proposal has a shortfall of 2m. The DCP does not distinguish between a lane or street with regard to corner blocks and the lane is a public road.

? 2.1 Building Line Setbacks of Cootamundra DCP 2013 - Setbacks for garages, sheds carports - 1m setback proposed for attached garage from the laneway boundary, which is the secondary frontage, however the DCP control requires a 1m setback from the building line, i.e. 3m secondary building setback plus an additional 1m, being a total of 4m. The proposal has a shortfall of 3m. The DCP does not distinguish between a lane or street with regard to corner blocks and the lane is a public road.

? Chapter 7 – Heritage of Cootamundra DCP 2013 – The proposal does not meet the objectives of this chapter which require new development to be in keeping with the desired visual, built and landscape character of the area, nor the performance criteria including replacement dwellings to be within a garden setting.

As a result of the non-compliance with Council’s controls, the proposed development has a large footprint with little regard to the visual impact or appearance from the laneway or adjoining properties, nor heritage impacts or amenity impacts.

Applicant’s Justification

The applicant has provided the following key arguments in support of the proposed development, most recently within letters from the applicant and their planning consultant accompanying the amended plans, summarised below:

? The upper floor of the new dwelling being setback from the street demonstrates compliance with heritage objectives of not crowding or overbearing the street appearance.

? The stepped nature of design away from streetscape is deliberate so street presence is maintained with similar style and scale at street behind a very large and dominant street tree, whilst larger building to rear to overcome street crowding.

? The distant setback of the upper floor, dominant presence of the street tree masking the frontage and the sympathetic design fa?ade and features mean the front portion of the dwellings roof mask the majority of the upper floor from car or pedestrian visage.

? Council’s Heritage Advisor now appears to be taking a very different stance from initial advice.

? Attic style roof with dormers is not the design the applicant seeks and efforts at minimising heights was exercised at rear. Dormer style roofs constrict ceiling heights for furniture choices, is very hot in nature for liveability reasons, and is highly anti passive solar design.

? Moving the rear two storey component towards the centre of the site would be more prominent and additional renders show bulk is not an issue, with examples of two storey development in the area.

? Solar panels on the front portion of the roof was an error, now updated on amended plans.

? Shadow diagrams demonstrate that only 1 – 2 hours impact at winter solstice occur to the solar panels on the rear shed and not over any private open space or residential areas.

? Highlight style windows used for upper storey for privacy and ventilation and considered neighbours in window placement.

? Disagree with considering the laneway as secondary frontage in DCP assessment when it is a former sanitary lane, not consistent with previous advice or approach by Council and request a variation to be considered as requiring increased setbacks for landscaping to three sides is unreasonable.

? The applicant does not want to retain trees on site, which were of little or no value.

? Landscape design for the site provided by Landscape Architect, including vine covered fencing and some pencil pines to offer laneway-based shielding of some effect on the 1m setback along the laneway. Builder advised against trees near foundations and the applicant wants a low maintenance garden with a hard surface for mobility in aging years.

? In response to Council’s concerns, two pines are proposed either side of the utility courtyard to reduce the visual impact of the second storey and a vegetated fence along the laneway to reduce the overall visual impact of the house.

? A redesign including a reduction in size, height or size of rooms is not on the table. The applicant has deliberately chosen the design based on passive solar design, desire for larger rooms and need to age in place, and to have a separate area for a carer in the future and for family to visit in their own area. The applicant’s letter indicated the small block necessitates the second storey.

? In response to Council’s concerns, the design has been altered to decrease the height and overshadowing in amended plans.

? Extensive changes have been made to the plans over the past 5 years at significant expense, including in response to the pre-lodgement meeting.

The applicant provided additional renders of the proposed dwelling to support this position which are included in the attached DA assessment report (pages 4-5).

The applicant and their planning consultant have also raised concerns regarding comments made within the submissions and viewing of unredacted floor plans. Council’s planning staff reject this claim, a request to view the floor plans was made by a resident but was refused by staff. Information detailed on elevations and section drawing including, window schedules, combined with information within a redacted copy of the Statement of Environmental Effects which included a description of the development, have likely provided for those who made submissions to draw their own conclusions regarding the internal layout or likely layout.

Council’s Position

Council’s position following assessment of the proposal was clearly outlined in the RFI letter, as detailed under the history of the development above. In this regard, the proposed development is unacceptable due to the size and scale and its corresponding impacts on:

? Heritage conservation of the Cootamundra Heritage Conservation Area.

? Streetscape and public domain.

? Visual outlook, separation and amenity for the neighbouring properties.

The overall size and scale of the development could be reduced as follows:

? Deletion of the two-storey component or scaled back to be attic style or smaller recessed first floor component.

? Increased setbacks to the laneway, side and rear boundaries to provide greater separation to the dwelling and garage, reduce overshadowing, improve the visual impact and provide opportunity for landscaping rather than hardstand as proposed.

? Provide an overall smaller footprint for both levels, which could be achieved through consolidation of the various living areas (e.g. lounge, study, snug, family guest, retreat) and reduction in the size of oversized rooms.

A meeting was held with the applicant to discuss issues raised and encouraged to consider changes that can be made to achieve a balanced outcome of all issues including heritage, visual impact and amenity. These suggested changes were discussed at a meeting with the applicant and their planning consultant and could likely be accommodated without loss of bedroom numbers or main living areas but in a varied form and still achieve the general intent expressed by the applicant for visitors and a caregiver to be accommodated on site.

Additional information and plans were submitted; however, no distinct changes were made to the proposal. As such, the amended plans have not altered this position. Should a dwelling of this size be necessary, then the subject site is not appropriate and an alternate, larger, site should be utilised.

The proposed dwelling is excessive in size for the site, and the design does not respond to the heritage values of the conservation area, nor the adjoining properties in terms of amenity, outlook or separation. The dwellings in the immediate vicinity have larger areas of landscaping on the site, similar to the arrangement of the existing dwelling on the site.

Consistent with advice provided prior to lodgement and throughout the assessment of the application, the footprint of the dwelling and the design of the second storey require amendment to provide a smaller dwelling than currently proposed.

There is an opportunity to provide a smaller upper floor with an attic style roof and rationalise the proposed rooms, in particular the numerous living areas of varying forms and names and the oversized rooms to still achieve the desired outcome for the applicant to accommodate family and a caregiver, whilst proposing a dwelling which is more appropriate in size and scale, with additional landscaping and increased setbacks to minimise amenity and visual impacts, and be appropriate for the heritage conservation area.

The applicant has indicated that Council’s Heritage Advisor is taking a different position during the assessment of the current application. This is not the case, with the November 2024 report for the proposed demolition and new single storey residence. The pre-lodgement meeting in June 2025 was for a two-storey dwelling and concerns were raised at that time regarding the second storey and its considerable bulk and scale. The current application has pursued the two-storey form, contrary to pre-lodgement advice.

The applicant expressed at the meeting that largely that the view of the proposed dwelling is important from Bourke Street, with the laneway being a service lane and not contributing to heritage value and in response placed the two-storey component at the rear portion of the site with little consideration of the impact of its size. Views from both Bourke Street and the laneway (being a secondary frontage) are both important and reflected in the DCP heritage controls. The large two storey component is highly visible from both Bourke Street and the laneway and a reduction in its size and form could achieve an outcome where a second storey is achieved.

Further, the applicant considers that Council’s previous advice and approach is to not consider a laneway a secondary frontage, however the formal pre-lodgement advice provided in June 2025 indicated it would be and the DCP control does not indicate that a laneway is excluded. A variation could be considered to the DCP control for setbacks to the laneway should the remainder of the development be considered acceptable, however substantial changes are still required to resolve other concerns. The insufficient setbacks to the laneway adversely impact upon the streetscape and heritage.

The footprint of the proposed dwelling provides small non-compliant setbacks with limited opportunity for meaningful landscaping across the site to establish a garden setting, including trees. During the assessment, concerns were raised regarding the removal of all vegetation from the site and new landscaping occurring in limited areas in the front setback and main courtyard only, with the setbacks not providing opportunity for landscaping to integrate new solid built form into its setting. The amended plans added two trees within the eastern utility courtyard, and it was explained by the applicant that the fence will have a climbing plant as an attempt to soften the development when viewed from the laneway. However, a mass of solid wall including the dwelling and fencing remains prominent along the laneway without articulation or relief through compliant setbacks or stepping of the building or recessing of the upper floor.

The letters provided as part of the submitted information for the application include accusations regarding Council’s officer/consultant/advisor and provision of unredacted floor plans. These comments do not form part of the matters for consideration in the assessment of an application. A request was made for the floor plans during the notification period which was denied by Council Officers. The Statement of Environmental Effects, site plan and elevations available for viewing clearly indicates a large development which covers a considerable portion of the site, combined with the design in two components could lead to an assumption by the public viewing the plans that the development is large and for more than a single dwelling.

The proposed development has a number of issues which require resolution through a reduction in its size and cumulatively result in an unacceptable development. It is acknowledged that the applicant is adamant about the design remaining at the size proposed and with hardstand rather than a garden setting. However, as acknowledged by the applicant, the site is small and therefore the site is not suitable for the proposed development.

The development is therefore not supported, and refusal is recommended.

Alternate Position

Should however, Councillors consider that the development application warrants approval, the following actions are required:

1. Reasons for the Decision

In accordance with the requirements of clause 11.12 of Council’s Code of Meeting Practice, where the council makes a planning decision that is inconsistent with the recommendation made in a staff report, it must provide reasons for its decision and why it did not adopt the staff recommendation.

2. Legislative Controls

Council must address how the proposed development complies with proposed development applicable legislative controls, including Section 5.10 Heritage of the Local Environmental Plan and consideration given to the Development Control Plan.

Further, council must give consideration to the submissions received in accordance with section 4.15(1)(d). Matters raised by the submissions are summarised as follows:-

? Concerns regarding the two-storey component of the development which is too large and imposing and not an appropriate scale with respect to the character of the area being a heritage conservation area or with respect to adjoining dwellings.

? Heritage Impact Assessment provides little examination as to why the proposed development is a good fit into the heritage conservation area.

? Exterior too modern in appearance in compared to the heritage character of Albert Park.

? Loss of privacy from windows, in particular to the dwellings and backyards on the opposite side of the laneway to the east and adjoining to the south at Nos. 48 and 50.

? Overshadowing of No. 48 adjoining to the south, including to the solar panels and backyard.

? Negative visual impact from the laneway and no visual impact analysis was prepared. Rudimentary analysis in one objection indicates visibility of second storey from many properties and suggests significant interruption to the flow and rhythm of development.

? Overcrowding of the lot provides little open space and a larger footprint than the existing dwelling. This size development suited to a larger block.

? The proposed footprint of 354m? and two storeys with a gross floor area of 450m? is an overdevelopment and significantly larger than majority of dwellings in the area being single storey and a maximum 200m? footprint.

? The proposal exceeds the maximum permitted site coverage with no justification.

? Impact on property values of adjoining dwellings.

? Questions if commercial use of the property proposed with three bedrooms, guest room and retreat all on upper level, or a dual occupancy.

? Parking issues if all bedrooms in use.

? Garage should be setback to allow for parking in front.

? Unable to view floor plan.

? The Statement of Environmental Effects claims that the laneway is not a road which is incorrect and the laneway meets the definition of ‘public road’ under CLEP 2013 and therefore must provide a secondary frontage setback.

? Errors or outdated information contained in the Statement of Environmental Effects.

Objectors do not have a statutory right of appeal in this instance. However, members of the public may seek judicial review of administrative conduct or decisions through the Land and Environment Court, calling into question the validity of a consent. Accordingly, any council resolution should explain how these considerations were taken into account when making the determination and detail the reasons for approval. Reasons for a decision cannot be detailed at a later point.

3. Conditions of consent

Specific conditions of consent are required and must be imposed as part of the Council resolution and not delegated to the General Manager or Staff to impose, as part of a resolution to approve the proposed development. This is supported by the NSW Land and Environment Court, which states that “No issue is raised about the ability of the Council to delegate the approval function in s 4.16 of the EPA Act provided it is delegated as a whole, not in part, consistent with the principle of indivisibility of function.” Conditions of consent to be included in the Notice of Determination, including but not limited to prescribed conditions, conditions requiring payment of contribution fees payable in accordance with council’s adopted 7.12 Fixed Development Consent Levy Contributions Plan 2018, conditions to ensure matters such as proposed demolition works and construction are undertaken in a manner that that protect the environment and amenity of surrounding properties and conditions that ensure the protection of council’s sewer assets noting the proposed location of the dwelling over the sewer main.

Financial

No financial implications.

OLG 23a Guideline consideration

Report does not conflict with guidelines.

Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

24 February 2026

7.5.2 Cootamundra Engineering Report - January 2026

DOCUMENT NUMBER

457932

REPORTING OFFICER

David Brodie, Acting Manager Engineering Cootamundra

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 January 2026 be noted.

Introduction

The Cootamundra Engineering Report for the month of January 2026 is submitted for the information of Council and the community.

Discussion

State Roads

Burley Griffin Way & Olympic Highway

Minor patching works have been carried out on the Burley Griffin Way as part of the RMAP Routine maintenance works.

Cootamundra RMCC have received Quarter 4 (Oct-Dec25) Performance Report achieving an overall score of 74%, resulting in an overall score of “Good”. RMCC performance reports over the past 12 months have shown an overall improvement from 71% to 74%.

Local Roads

Patching Works

The Jetpatcher has carried out works on West Jindalee, Old Wallendbeen, Rosehill Roads and Muttama Road.

Maintenance Grading

Crews have undertaken maintenance grading on Rawilla Road, Sheep Station Creek Road, Fontenoy Lane, Colorado Road, Back Nubba Road, Haines Lane and Glenroy Lane.

Footpath Maintenance

Cootamundra concrete crew have been working through Yass Road and Parker Street completing minor works repairs.

Event Management

Cootamundra Work Health and Safety Officer and Road Safety Officer have been working with organisers of the Anzac Day Parades, Beach Volleyball Events and a number of future Aerodrome Car events being scheduled for 2026.

Open Drain Maintenance

Excavator and associated plant have been cleaning out drains on Stockinbingal Road, Morrisons Hill Road, Old Gundagai Road, North Jindalee Road.

Traffic Counters

- 2x installed in conjunction with VMS boards speed campaigns located at Temora Street and Gundagai Road.

- 3x installed in response to speed concerns and the intersection of Olympic Highway and Old Gundagai Road.

- 1x installed at Rinkin Street in response to resident complaints regarding excessive speeding.

Road Safety

National Heavy Vehicle Regulator

Council have received and reviewed a total of 38 Access Permit Applications during January 2026.

Applications	Pre-Approvals	Approved with Conditions	Refusals	Closed
36	2	30	2	2

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).

Cootamundra Water

Maintenance

Quarterly meter replacements = 40

Leaking service repairs = 5

Main bursts = 1

Capital

Completed Tender Review for FY25-26 Water Mains Replacement.

Cootamundra Standpipe Income January 2026

2025/2026		Income	Number of Transactions
2025	August	$1,066.02	62
2025	September	$1,538.89	102
2025	October	$3,733.97	154
2025	November	$2,945.37	93
2025	December	$3,257.99	120
2026	January	$1,457.59	77
2025/2026	Totals	$13,999.83	608

The Cootamundra Standpipe is currently out of order following mechanical and electrical circuit board failures due to the age of the infrastructure. The facility will be unavailable for use until the end of February / early March 2026. Council has sourced quotes from relevant suppliers for a system replacement.

Alternate water sources are located at Gundagai, Stockinbingal and Harden and have been communicated to relevant stakeholders.

Cootamundra Sewer

Maintenance

Sewer chokes = 7

Capital

Betts Street Rising Main – Cutover and commission of new line successfully completed with new asset performance being monitored and asset is performing to design criteria.

Completed Tender Review for FY25-26 Sewer Mains Replacement.

Floodplain Management (FMP)

FMP 0058 – Cootamundra Turf Club detention basin and McGowan Street Levee Feasibility Study

The project completed its community consultation phase and is still in the process of completing its draft options assessment. Options Assessment is expected to be completed and reported on in the next two months.

FMP 0057 – Flood Warning System Review

Final Flood Warning System Review Report has been completed, with a report and recommendations to be provided at the March 2026 Council meeting.

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

24 February 2026

7.7 Regional Services Gundagai

7.7.1 Gundagai Regional Services Report - January 2026

DOCUMENT NUMBER

458695

REPORTING OFFICER

Greg Ewings, Acting Manager Regional Services Gundagai

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

That the Gundagai Regional Services report for the month of January 2026 be noted.

Introduction

This report is a record of the diverse works Gundagai Regional Services have performed over the month of January 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:

? General maintenance of all recreational areas

? Marking of sporting fields.

? Fire Mitigation works

? Cleaning of transfer stations

? Maintenance at Saleyards

Gundagai Memorial Swimming Pool:

? Installation of the new dosing equipment was completed in the reporting period.

? Patronage for Nov – Dec was 1354 with numbers. January figures have not been received by the operator at the time of writing this report, however there were three days when the pool was closed in January which will potentially reduce patron numbers during the January period.

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

Cemetery work activities this month include:

? Cemetery maintenance checks.

? There have been four interments in the previous period across the Gundagai Cemeteries.

? General maintenance and lawn care across all cemeteries is routinely conducted.

Biosecurity:

? The NSW Weed Action Program 2025 – 2029 funding deed has been executed.

? All private inspections for the Gundagai area have been completed in accordance with the WAP. With all other targets on track for completion in the allotted timeframe.

Gundagai Public & Council Facilities income

Gundagai RV Park Income January 2026

? 01/01/26 – 31/01/26 - Total Income $213.00

Gundagai Landfill Income January 2026

? 01/01/26 – 31/01/26 - General Income $5019.12

Gundagai Standpipe Income January 2026

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
2025	October	$1,827.94	11	$3,235.13
2025	November	$5,232.65	16	$2,352.76
2025	December	$6,384.75	17	$3,083.95
2026	January	$11,743.19	17	$1,914.33
25/26	Totals	$31,948.63	97

Gundagai Saleyards Truck Wash January 2026

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
2025	October	$5,094.67	32	$2,731.61
2025	November	$3,976.71	32	$3,710.83
2025	December	$3,170.29	26	$3,645.21
2026	January	$3,908.68	28	$3,260.07
25/26	Totals	$26,944.96	208

Compliance:

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

Companion Animal:

Council currently has one dog being held in Gundagai and looking to rehome this animal.

Abandoned Vehicles:

Several abandoned vehicle matters have been dealt with resulting in vehicle ownership being resolved or the vehicles being impounded.

Financial

There are no further financial implications as all work has been carried out as per the approved 25/26 budget allocations.

OLG 23a Guideline consideration

There are no implications to the guidelines.

Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

24 February 2026

7.8 Regional Services Cootamundra

7.8.1 Cootamundra Regional Services Report - January 2026

DOCUMENT NUMBER

458003

REPORTING OFFICER

Steven Lowe, Acting Manager Regional Services Cootamundra

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

That the Cootamundra Regional Services report for the month of January be noted.

Introduction

This report has been prepared to inform Council of the activities undertaken by the Regional Services – Cootamundra department over the month of January 2026.

Discussion

Parks & Gardens

Parks and Gardens staff have been undertaking general seasonal duties throughout the summer months with plenty of mowing, whipper snipping/edging, spraying and pruning of all parks and gardens areas keeping plants and turf alive through irrigation. With no real rainfall within the last two months the effluent re-use watering system is struggling to keep turf in parks and sporting fields alive due to excessive heat, wind and licencing restrictions on when use of the system is permitted.

General customer requests have been attended to throughout January. Small tree requests are being completed as workflow allows. A large gum tree had fallen in the middle of the Captains’ Walk at Jubilee Park, fortunately missing all assets within the area. Half of the tree was still standing and with a limited root plate and signs of fungus at the base of the tree, removal was prioritised to ensure safety of the public. Council’s elevated work platform was not tall enough to reach the upper limbs, requiring a contractor to be engaged to remove the remainder of the tree.

The Community Christmas Tree was severely vandalised before it was taken down in early January. Damage caused will require either staff or contractors to repair the issues or potentially replace with a more secure tree design.

Australia Day in Albert Park was a huge success with a great turnout for the event. Parks staff ensured grass was cut and watered, edges trimmed, bins provided and a staff member available on the day to assist with operational requirements.

The annual Cootamundra Touch Football Carnival was held over 10 and 11 January. Staff provided bins, clean amenities, line marking and carried out extra maintenance to the fields in the lead up to the event to ensure a suitable playing surface.

Parks staff are continuing to line mark and maintain playing surfaces for summer sports along with general turf care, irrigation troubleshooting and repairs as required.

Additional duties undertaken by staff throughout January include assisting with the replacement of a diving board at the town pool, playground inspections and removal of Pioneer Park barbeques for the summer season.

Parks staff have also assisted with the extension of the paved footpath to connect with the layback at the Rotary Peace Pavilion at Albert Park. This project is being undertaken by a local contractor.

Saleyards / Truck Wash

The truck wash has continued to see a high usage rate leading to extra maintenance to keep up with the demand on the system.

The truck wash recorded 136 transactions for January, generating a total of $9,126.86 in income.

Cemeteries

There were four burials and two ashes interments conducted at the Cootamundra Lawn Cemetery in January.

Biosecurity

Thirty private inspections have been carried out over the past few weeks, along with designated High Risk Sites, Council owned and managed lands and one waterway inspection. These inspections directly contribute to the Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council Weed Inspection Program and WAP funding.

Upon all inspections no prohibited matter was located. Widespread weeds like Fleabane, Bathurst Burr, Scotch Thistle and Saffron Thistle were found sporadically and biosecurity advice was given to the private land holders to control such weeds. All private property owners of inspected lands have been pro-active with controlling weeds and received advice on future management and weed prevention positively.

The Council owned assets inspected are in fair condition. The spraying program has been updated to reflect priorities identified during the most recent inspections.

Activity	Location	Km/Count	Date
Regional Inspection Program - Inspection of High-Risk Pathways (roadsides) (Inspection) (Inspection) 1000km	Stockinbingal Road	23	4/2/26
	Olympic Highway	19	6/2/26
	TOTAL:	42km
(HRS) Inspection of named HRS.	Stock Up Nursery	1 inspection	4/2/26
Inspect Council owned and Managed Lands (≥ 2 annual): - Works Depots (3) - Tip transfer stations (3) - Caravan Park (1) - Showground (1) - Aerodrome (1) - Cemetery (3)	Stockinbingal Rec Ground	1 inspection	4/2/26
	Wallendbeen Rec Ground	1 inspection	5/2/26
	Water Sewer Area 1	1 inspection	6/2/26
	Water Sewer Area 2	1 inspection	6/2/26
	Cootamundra tip	1 inspection	6/2/26
	Cootamundra works depot 1	1 inspection	12/2/26
	Cootamundra works depot 2	1 inspection	12/2/26
	Cootamundra works depot 3	1 inspection	12/2/26
Support Officers to attend and complete relevant training. Target 4 events.	2 x Courses (Water Weeds, and Prohibited Matter) Planned - March
Waterways Inspections (Wap target)	Cunninghams Creek (Wallendbeen)	1 inspection	5/2/26
Private Inspections (60 target)	Stockinbingal	13 inspections	2 & 3/2/26
	Wallendbeen	9 inspections	5/2/26
	Cootamundra	8 inspections	6/2/26

General Activity:

- Private Inspections, Council managed land inspections, waterway and high-risk areas were conducted (listed above) as per the WAP funding and Weed Inspection Program

Planned:

- Spraying Council managed assets especially the Sewer Treatment areas, especially being high risk areas.

- Spot spraying local roads/lane ways for summer weeds and spraying of key areas with known incursions of State and local priority species. Customer requests about fleabane have been coming through.

Waste Services

The secondhand tip shop processed 60 transactions for January with a total of $434.21 in income. During this time staff have diverted 400kg of waste from the landfill into the shop to be repurposed.

A total of 3 tonnes of recycled crushed concrete was sold this month and a total of 114 tonnes of compost soil. The crushed concrete pile has now been depleted, staff are currently obtaining updated quotes to commence the crushing process for the current 6460 tonnes of stockpiled concrete, bricks and pavers.

The scrap metal collections commenced in January. Approximately 250 tonnes of scrap metal will be removed under a group contract awarded through REROC.

Facilities

The diving board at the Cootamundra pool had to be replaced due to a severe crack in the existing board. The replacement board was installed before Australia Day to ensure the patrons had access to the diving board on the day. Plumbing repairs were carried out at the Cootamundra pool.

CCTV cameras have been installed around the terminal building at Cootamundra aerodrome. The cameras are hoped to reduce the volume of vandalism incidents which causing costly damage to the building.

The annual pest control spraying was carried out on all Cootamundra buildings including public toilets.

Roofing repairs were carried out at Depot 2 after several sheets were lifted during a storm. The sheets of iron were put back in place and new screws have been used to secure all sheets on the shed roof.

The Cootamundra EV charging station’s data for January is shown below:-

A screenshot of a computer

AI-generated content may be incorrect.

Capital Works Projects

Council has been successful in obtaining 22 CDS “Bin Baskets” to be located throughout Cootamundra and Gundagai. The bin baskets are designed to divert a significant number of eligible containers to be recycled that would otherwise end up in landfill. These baskets will be installed once received from the funding body.

Council staff have been liaising with a local builder and rugby league club representatives to undertake the task of starting the Fisher Park Changerooms project. Although this project is underfunded, with Council, the rugby league club and the builder working together the project will be delivered this year. Work has commenced with the water, gas and power being disconnected from the existing infrastructure in preparation for these to be removed off site. The funding body has approved the extension date for this project to the 31 July 2026.

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.

Cash at 31 January 2026	28,027,496
Less:
Externally Restricted Reserves	(21,902,380)
Add:
Grant Debtors and Contract Asset Outstanding	373,428
Unrestricted Cash	6,498,545

Less:
Internally Restricted Allocations	(7,751,961)
Net Balance	(1,243,416)

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 27 January 2026

DOCUMENT NUMBER	457387
AUTHORISING OFFICER	Abb McAlister, Mayor
REPORTING OFFICER	Abb McAlister, Mayor
ATTACHMENTS	Nil

REPORTING OFFICER	Peter Bascomb, Demerger Transition 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 Demerger Transition Committee Meeting held on Tuesday 27 January 2026

REPORTING OFFICER	Kylie Grybaitis, Road Safety Officer
AUTHORISING OFFICER	Trevor Dando, Acting Deputy General Manager Operations
FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS	There are no Financial implications associated with this report.
LEGISLATIVE IMPLICATIONS	There are no Legislative implications associated with this report.
POLICY IMPLICATIONS	There are no Policy implications associated with this report.
ATTACHMENTS	1. Minutes of the Cootamundra-Gundagai Local Transport Forum Meeting held on Thursday 12 February 2026