Agenda of Ordinary Council Meeting - Tuesday, 26 May 2026

Ordinary Council Meeting Minutes

28 April 2026

MINUTES OF Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council
Ordinary Council Meeting
HELD AT THE Alby Schultz meeting Centre, Cootamundra
ON Tuesday, 28 April 2026 AT 6:00PM

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

IN ATTENDANCE: Roger Bailey (Interim General Manager), Trevor Dando (Acting Deputy General Manager - Operations), Damian Smith (Acting Manager Finance), Linda Wiles (Manager Business), Luke Izzard (Acting Manager Sustainable Development), Craig Perrin, (Town Planner), 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 Apologies, Leave of Absence, and AUDIO-VISUAL attendance requests

2.1 Apologies

Resolution 096/2026

Moved: Cr Logan Collins

Seconded: Cr Danyal Syed

Apologies from Cr David Graham be received and leave of absence granted.

Carried

2.2 Leave of Absence

Nil

2.3 Audio-visual attendance requests

Nil

3 Disclosures of Interest

Nil

4 Confirmation of Minutes

4.1 Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting of Council held on Tuesday 24 March 2026

Resolution 097/2026

Moved: Cr Penny Nicholson

Seconded: Cr Les Cooper

That the Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting of Council held on Tuesday 24 March 2026 be confirmed as a true and correct record of the meeting.

Carried

5 Mayoral Minutes

5.1 Mayoral Minute - Councillor Engagements - 18 March 2026 - 18 April 2026

Resolution 098/2026

Moved: Cr Les Cooper

Seconded: Cr Gil Kelly

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

Carried

6 Reports from Committees

6.1 Minutes of the Demerger Transition Committee Meeting held on Tuesday 10 March 2026

Resolution 099/2026

Moved: Cr Ethan Ryan

Seconded: Cr Rosalind Wight

1. That the Minutes of the Demerger Transition Committee Meeting held on Tuesday 10 March 2026, attached to the report, be received and noted.

2. That the Draft Minutes of the Demerger Transition Committee Meeting held on Wednesday 15 April 2026, attached to the report, be noted and the following recommendations be adopted:

2.1. That Council endorses Candidate A as Chair of the Demerger Transition Dispute resolution Panel.

2.2. That Council endorses Candidate B and Candidate F as members of the Demerger Transition Dispute Resolution Panel.

2.3. That Council endorses Candidate C as an alternative member of the Demerger Transition Dispute Resolution Panel should one of the other members not be available for any reason.

2.4. That Council:

2.4.1. Establishes the positions of:

2.4.1.1. General Manager Designate Cootamundra

2.4.1.2. General Manager Designate Gundagai

2.4.2. Seeks to employ both GMs-Designate by 30 April 2027 at the latest, initially as an award-based employee with remuneration package equivalent to that of the relevant GM position.

2.4.3. Seeks to have the Proclamation refer to the appointment of the GMs-Designate as the Interim General Manager of the Council for which they were recruited.

2.4.4. Determines that the GMs-Designate’s role will include:

2.4.4.1. Review the draft structure of the organisation for which they are recruited.

2.4.4.2. Recruit as many vacant positions as possible by 1 July 2027.

2.4.4.3. Working with the other GM-Designate and the Interim General Manager, ensure that all new staff a properly inducted and trained.

2.4.4.4. Progress the Demerger Transition Project to ensure that both successor Councils are fully operational on 1 July 2027.

2.4.4.5. Working with the other GM-Designate and the Interim General Manager, finalise the draft IP&R and other plans and policies for the Council for which they are recruited.

2.4.4.6. Assist the CGRC Interim GM as required to ensure the continued operation of CGRC and the smooth transition to the new organisations.

2.5. That Council, to facilitate the recruitment of the two GMs-Designate:

2.5.1. Establishes two Committees of Council, being:

2.5.1.1. GM Cootamundra Recruitment Committee, comprising Councillors Wight, Kelly, Ryan, Collins, Cooper and Syed.

2.5.1.2. GM Gundagai Recruitment Committee, comprising Councillors McAllister, Graham and Nicholson.

2.5.2. Requires the Committees to follow the Guidelines for the Appointment and Oversight of General Managers issued under Section 23a of the Local Government Act 1993.

2.5.3. Authorises each Committee to:

2.5.3.1. Elect the Committee Chair.

2.5.3.2. Appoint a recruitment agency to assist with the recruitment process for each successor Council.

2.5.3.3. Select the preferred candidate for each successor Council for referral to Council for formal appointment.

2.6. That Council:

2.6.1. Approves the methodology for allocating Council’s reserves detailed in the report for item 5.1.3 in the Demerger Transition Committee Business Paper for its 15 April 2026 meeting.

2.6.2. Authorises the engagement of a contractor, selected by the Interim General Manager and the Demerger Transition Manager, to undertake the work of splitting the reserves according to the approved methodology so that the successor council reserves can be provided to the consultant engaged to prepare the updated Financial Sustainability Plan.

2.6.3. Consistent with Council’s adopted Restricted Assets Policy, establishes a reserve to retain the Financial Assistance Grants (FAGs) paid in advance with the reserve plus interest to carry forward to the actual year for which the FAGs were paid.

2.6.4. Acknowledges that the reserve established in part 2.6.3 above will further reduce the cash available for Council’s internally restricted reserves.

2.6.5. Acknowledges that it is possible that the division of an Externally Restricted Reserves may result in one of the proposed successor Councils having a negative balance requiring that Council to borrow to repay the other successor Council.

2.6.6. Acknowledges that Council’s Internally Restricted Reserves are not fully cash backed and require the balances of all such reserves to be reduced on a pro rata basis to the reserves are fully cash backed.

2.6.7. Requires that the organisation record all future reserve transactions so that the successor council reserve balances are accurately known on 30 June 2027.

Carried

7 General Manager’s Report

7.1 General Manager Office

Nil

7.2 Business

7.2.1 Draft 2026-30 Delivery Program and Draft 2026/27 Operational Plan and Associated Documents

Resolution 100/2026

Moved: Cr Danyal Syed

Seconded: Cr Logan Collins

1. Council resolve that the 2026-2030 Draft Delivery Program, inclusive of the Draft 2026/27 - 2029/30 Operating budget and the Draft 2026/27 Long Term Financial Plan, be placed on public exhibition for a period of 28 days.

2. Council resolve that the Draft 2026/27 Operational Plan, inclusive of the Draft 2027 Revenue Policy, Draft 2027 Operating Budget and Draft 2027 Capital Works Budget, be placed on public exhibition for a period of 28 days.

3. A further report be submitted to the ordinary meeting of Council scheduled to be held 23 June 2026, to consider submissions received, if any, during the Public Exhibition period, and to formally adopt the 2026-2030 Delivery Program and 2026/27 Operational Plan.

Carried

7.2.2 Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee (ARIC) Meeting 5 March 2026

Resolution 101/2026

Moved: Cr Penny Nicholson

Seconded: Cr Les Cooper

That Council notes the minutes of the Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee (ARIC) Meeting Minutes held on 5 March 2026.

Carried

7.2.3 Section 355 Committee Meeting Minutes

Resolution 102/2026

Moved: Cr Rosalind Wight

Seconded: Cr Logan Collins

That Council:

1. Receive and note the following s.355 Committee Minutes:

1.1. Muttama Creek Regeneration Group s.355 Committee Meeting – 9 February 2026

1.2. Stockinbingal Ellwood’s Hall s.355 Committee Meeting – 26 February 2026 and 23 March 2026

1.3. Cootamundra Heritage Centre Management Committee s.355 Committee Meeting – 4 March 2026

1.4. Muttama Hall Management Committee s.355 Committee Meeting – 15 March 2026

2. Sends a letter of thanks and appreciation to Yvonne Forsyth for her contribution to the Cootamundra Heritage Centre s.355 Committee and the Cootamundra Community.

Carried

7.2.4 Wallendbeen Memorial Hall s.355 Committee Meeting Minutes, Membership and Fees

Resolution 103/2026

Moved: Cr Ethan Ryan

Seconded: Cr Gil Kelly

1. The Minutes and supporting documentation of the Wallendbeen Memorial Hall s.355 Committee Annual General Meeting (AGM) and Ordinary Meeting Minutes, held on 19 March 2026, attached to the report, be received and noted.

2. The office bearers and membership of the Wallendbeen Memorial Hall s.355 Committee as listed below, be endorsed:

President: Alex Baldry

Vice President: Phillip McGeoch

Secretary/Treasurer: Marcia Thorburn

Other Members: Margaret McGeoch, Helen Worland, Toby Bassingthwaighte, Ken Thorburn, Michael Baldry, Ken Clark, Wayne Trenning, Darrell Ceeney.

Carried

7.2.5 Draft Records Management Policy

Resolution 104/2026

Moved: Cr Gil Kelly

Seconded: Cr Ethan Ryan

The Draft Records Management Policy, attached to the report, be adopted.

Carried

7.2.6 Draft Civic Events and Ceremonial Functions Policy

Resolution 105/2026

Moved: Cr Les Cooper

Seconded: Cr Danyal Syed

That the Draft Civic Events and Ceremonial Functions Policy attached to the report be adopted.

Carried

7.3 Finance

7.3.1 Loan for Extension of Water Supply to Dog on the Tucker Box Site

Resolution 106/2026

Moved: Cr Penny Nicholson

Seconded: Cr Rosalind Wight

That authority be granted to the Interim General Manager to execute the loan agreement on behalf of Council for up to $2,533,500 to be repaid over a 10-year term limit.

Carried

7.3.2 Finance Update - March 2026

Resolution 107/2026

Moved: Cr Danyal Syed

Seconded: Cr Les Cooper

That the Finance Update report for the month of March 2026, be noted.

Carried

7.3.3 Restricted Cash Reconciliation - March 2026

Resolution 108/2026

Moved: Cr Ethan Ryan

Seconded: Cr Logan Collins

The Restricted Cash Reconciliation report for the period ending 31 March 2026, be received and noted.

Carried

7.3.4 Investment Report - March 2026

Resolution 109/2026

Moved: Cr Rosalind Wight

Seconded: Cr Logan Collins

The report detailing Council Cash and Investments as at 31^st March 2026, be noted.

Carried

7.4 Sustainable Development

7.4.1 Gundagai Housing & Employment Land Strategy

Resolution 110/2026

Moved: Cr Ethan Ryan

Seconded: Cr Penny Nicholson

1. Note that the final draft Gundagai Housing and Employment Land Strategy was publicly exhibited for a period of 28 days.

2. Note that four (4) submissions during the exhibition period, and that these submissions have been considered, investigated and incorporated where appropriate into the document presented for adoption.

3. Adopt the final Gundagai Housing and Employment Land Strategy.

4. In the event that minor errors or amendments are identified, staff are authorised to make necessary alterations, provided that the core content and recommendations of the strategy remain unchanged, allowing for its adoption.

5. Notify the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure of the adoption.

6. Notify submitters of the outcome.

Carried

7.5 Engineering Cootamundra

7.5.1 Road Safety Action Plan 2026-2030

Resolution 111/2026

Moved: Cr Logan Collins

Seconded: Cr Les Cooper

That the draft Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council Road Safety Action Plan 2026-2030, as attached to this report, be endorsed.

Carried

7.5.2 Cootamundra Engineering Report - March 2026

Resolution 112/2026

Moved: Cr Les Cooper

Seconded: Cr Ethan Ryan

That the Cootamundra Engineering Report for the month of March 2026 be noted.

Carried

7.6 Engineering Gundagai

7.6.1 Gundagai Engineering Report - March 2026

Resolution 113/2026

Moved: Cr Logan Collins

Seconded: Cr Penny Nicholson

That the Gundagai Engineering Report for the month of March 2026 be noted.

Carried

7.7 Regional Services Gundagai

7.7.1 Gundagai Regional Services Report - March 2026

Resolution 114/2026

Moved: Cr Penny Nicholson

Seconded: Cr Gil Kelly

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

Carried

7.8 Regional Services Cootamundra

7.8.1 Cootamundra Regional Services Report - March 2026

Resolution 115/2026

Moved: Cr Ethan Ryan

Seconded: Cr Les Cooper

That the Cootamundra Regional Services Report for the month of February 2026, be noted.

Carried

8 Motion of which Notice has been Given

Nil

9 Questions with Notice

9.1 Question with Notice - Cr Wight - Cootamundra Saleyards

Resolution 116/2026

Moved: Cr Danyal Syed

Seconded: Cr Les Cooper

That:

1. The response to the Question with Notice on the Cootamundra Saleyards report be noted.

2. Council seeks a Workshop with Crown Lands to discuss options for the use of the Cootamundra Saleyards.

Carried

9.2 Question with Notice - Cr Wight - Standpipe in Cowcumbla Street Cootamundra

Resolution 117/2026

Moved: Cr Logan Collins

Seconded: Cr Ethan Ryan

That the response to the Question with Notice on the standpipe in Cowcumbla Street Cootamundra be noted.

Carried

9.3 Question with Notice - Cr Wight - Cootamundra Cemetery

Resolution 118/2026

Moved: Cr Rosalind Wight

Seconded: Cr Gil Kelly

That the response to the Question with Notice regarding maintenance on old section of the Cootamundra Cemetery, be noted.

Carried

9.4 Question with Notice - Cr Wight - Cootamundra Staffing, Vehicle Entitlements and Fuel Costs from 1 July 2027

Resolution 119/2026

Moved: Cr Rosalind Wight

Seconded: Cr Les Cooper

That the response to the Question with Notice regarding Cootamundra Staffing, Vehicle Entitlements and Fuel Costs from 1 July 2027, be noted.

Carried

9.5 Question with Notice - Cr Wight - Gundagai Waste Facility

Resolution 120/2026

Moved: Cr Rosalind Wight

Seconded: Cr Penny Nicholson

That:

1. The response to the Question with Notice regarding the Gundagai Waste Facility, be noted.

2. Council schedules a site visit to the Gundagai Waste Facility and a presentation on points during the next Council Workshop.

Carried

9.6 Question with Notice - Cr Wight - Councillor expenditure on Fuel

Resolution 121/2026

Moved: Cr Rosalind Wight

Seconded: Cr Logan Collins

That the response to the Question with Notice regarding Councillor Expenditure on Fuel, be noted.

Carried

Motion

Resolution 122/2026

Moved: Cr Logan Collins

Seconded: Cr Gil Kelly

That Councillor Wight be given provision to attend further Council Meetings and Workshops by way of audio visual link until the car issue at hand has been resolved.

Carried

10 Confidential Items

10.1 Closed Council Report

Resolution 123/2026

Moved: Cr Ethan Ryan

Seconded: Cr Gil Kelly

1. Council entered Closed Council at 7.25pm.

2. Items 10.2, 10.3 and 10.4 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 10.2, 10.3 and 10.4 be withheld from the press and public.

Carried

Note: Due to technical difficulties, the livestreaming and recording of the meeting was not able to continue after the confidential session.

10.2 Human Resources Report

Resolution 124/2026

Moved: Cr Les Cooper

Seconded: Cr Logan Collins

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

Carried

10.3 Hardship Application - Assessment 11017340

Resolution 125/2026

Moved: Cr Gil Kelly

Seconded: Cr Les Cooper

That Council not approve hardship assistance for the owner of the property identified as assessment number 11017340.

Carried

10.4 Hardship Application - Assessment 11027471

Resolution 126/2026

Moved: Cr Logan Collins

Seconded: Cr Penny Nicholson

That Council:

1. Approves the hardship application for Assessment No. 11027471, subject to the ratepayer entering into and maintaining a payment arrangement approved by the Interim General Manager.

2. Authorises the Interim General Manager to:

(a) determine and enter into the payment arrangement with the ratepayer; and

(b) write off any interest accrued for the period 1 May 2026 to 31 October 2026, provided the ratepayer complies with that payment arrangement for the duration of that period.

Carried

Resumption of Open Council Meeting

Resolution 127/2026

Moved: Cr Danyal Syed

Seconded: Cr Penny Nicholson

That the Open Council meeting resume at 7.28pm.

Carried

Announcement of Closed Council Resolutions

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

The Meeting closed at 7.35pm.


CHAIRPERSON	GENERAL MANAGER

Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

26 May 2026

5.2 Mayoral Minute - Support for the Community Service Obligation on banks to fund face-to-face banking in regional Australia – Regional Banking Investment Alliance

DOCUMENT NUMBER	471677
AUTHORISING OFFICER	Abb McAlister, Mayor
REPORTING OFFICER	Abb McAlister, Mayor
ATTACHMENTS	Nil

Recommendation

That Council:

1. Formally endorse the obligation on banks to fund face-to-face banking in regional Australia campaign led by the Regional Banking Investment Alliance and include council logo on RBIA materials.

2. Advocate to the Commonwealth Government to legislate a cost sharing model for banks to fund regional face-to-face banking services.

3. Continue to leverage Council’s existing advocacy platforms to amplify the campaign.

Purpose

To formally endorse the Community Service Obligation on banks to fund face-to-face banking in regional Australia campaign led by the Regional Banking Investment Alliance and advocate for a cost-sharing model to keep face-to-face branch services open in regional, rural and remote communities.

Background

Since 2017, over 870 bank branches have closed in regional and remote Australia. Despite numerous inquiries and recommendations, including the appointment of a Regional Banking Taskforce, there is currently no support to help regional banks provide essential services to people in regional, rural and remote communities.

Small regional banks are increasingly being used as de facto branches for the majors in a process known as “pass-through banking”, where small banks carry the costs of providing face-to-face banking services but receive none of the commercial benefits with home loans and deposits being held by larger or digital banks. Regional banks are also subject to higher costs for cash-in-transit services due to their location.

A moratorium on regional bank closures was announced in 2025 by the Treasurer and the Big 4 banks, which is set to expire in 2027. The moratorium does not affect any other banks, nor does it apply to opening hours. Bank@Post offers very limited services compared to a bank branch with properly trained staff.

In 2024, Treasury began proposing the concept of a community service obligation on banks.

The Regional Banking Investment is made up of 24 regional banks and a number of supporter organisations. They have taken Treasury’s proposal and developed it into a community service obligation cost sharing model for banks.

The model would be used to provide a direct contribution to any bank which maintains or expands regional bank branches. It would ensure ongoing support to preserve the financial viability of existing branches and incentivise banks to invest in new ones.

The model is 100% funded by banks with no taxpayer funds required.

Mechanics of the model

The model would be used to helped fund trained staff in work in face-to-face banking roles in regional and remote Australia.

It would apply only to banks that provide trained face-to-face core retail banking services, including cash management.

The CSO would cover about 32% of the average cost of running a regional bank branch, equivalent to three FTE staff. Across the industry this would amount to around $153 million, or 0.17% of the total operating income of the major banks.

The advantage of an FTE base for a subsidy is that it scales according to the level of service provided. If a bank branch is open for five days of the week, then it is providing a better service than one opening just three days – all else being equal. FTE numbers will reflect this longer opening time.

It is also proposed that the base FTE costs is adjusted annually by a suitable wage price index.

Similar schemes

Other essential services in Australia are legislated in a similar way to the Community Service Obligation proposed by the Regional Banking Investment Alliance.

· A Universal Service Obligation already exists in telecommunications to ensure that Standard Telephone Services and public payphones are made reasonably accessible to all Australians on an equitable basis, requiring the primary universal service provider.

· A Community Service Obligation funding pool was established by the Federal Government in 2006 to ensure that arrangements are in place to provide all Australians with ongoing and timely access to all PBS medicines, through community pharmacies.

· The Risk Equalisation (RE) Scheme is a financial transfer mechanism administered by the Australian Prudential Regulation Authority (APRA) under the Private Health Insurance Act 2007. It operates as a zero-sum pool, redistributing money among private health insurers (PHIs) to support the sustainability and fairness of Australia's private health insurance system.

Importance to regional/remote communities

Keeping business local - When a local bank branch closes, customers are compelled to travel elsewhere for their banking needs, reducing foot traffic and transactions at other local shops and businesses. While this shift may benefit larger regional centres, it negatively impacts smaller ones.

Security - Another significant issue arising from increased travel distances and reduced access to banking services is the heightened financial and physical risk associated with individuals and businesses needing to retain larger cash holdings for extended periods. Given there is a cash mandate on grocery and fuel retailers, security risks become even greater for these business types when local branches are closed.

Community support – Many community groups rely on their local banks for sponsorships and support for local events, sporting groups and community projects. Local banks are part of their local communities and want to contribute to the prosperity of the community in which they live.

Employment – Local bank branches provide flexible, skilled jobs in regional and remote communities encouraging young people to stay in their local community and attracting new families to regional towns.

Local context – Local bank branches understand their community, its economics and the people in it. This understanding is added to metrics to help inform and work with members of their community. This can also aid in detecting financial abuse, scams and fraud.

Digital disadvantage, outages and natural disasters – Rates of digital exclusion are higher in regional areas, as are outages and spotty network coverage. Regional areas also suffer from more natural disasters. Face-to-face cash services are a necessity for these communities.

Conclusion

The banking system provides essential services that underpin a market-based economy, and these services must be universally accessible.

Regional communities contribute to Australia’s prosperity, and the highly profitable banks who owe their success to regional communities should be obligated to service them.

Supporting the Obligation on banks to fund face-to-face banking in regional Australia acknowledges the importance of face-to-face banking services as part of the main street businesses in towns throughout the country.

If regional Australia is expected to grow, produce and sustain, then face-to-face banking services need to be maintained and supporting this campaign puts that expectation where it belongs, on the banks themselves.

Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

26 May 2026

7.1.3 2026-27 Determination of the Local Government Remuneration Tribunal - Councillor Fees and Additional Mayoral Fee

DOCUMENT NUMBER

472482

REPORTING OFFICER

Teresa Breslin, Executive Assistant to Mayor and General Manager

AUTHORISING OFFICER

Roger Bailey, Interim General Manager

RELEVANCE TO COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN

4. Collaborative and progressive leadership

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

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

Potential increase of between $15,860 - $72,640 from Mayor and Councillors expenses budget.

LEGISLATIVE IMPLICATIONS

In accordance with s.248 and 249 of the Local Government Act 1993.

POLICY IMPLICATIONS

There are no Policy implications associated with this report.

ATTACHMENTS

1. LGRT 2026 Annual Determination ⇩

Recommendation

1. Council determine the Councillors annual fee effective 1^st July, 2026 to be $14,450.

2. Council determine the Mayors annual fee effective 1^st July, 2026 to be $31,150.

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

Introduction

Division 5 of the Local Government Act, 1993 (the Act), describes what fees, expenses and facilities may be paid or provided to Councillors.

Every year Council must adopt fees as described by the Local Government Remuneration Tribunal (the Tribunal) for the coming financial year. Each Council is categorised by the Tribunal and fees are set for each category for their consideration.

Additionally, under Section 254B of the Local Government Act, 1993 Councils may resolve to make superannuation contributions to Councillors.

Discussion

The Tribunal annually determines a range of fees for the remuneration of Councillors and Mayors. Each year, councils must consider the reviewed fees and make a resolution prior to the 1^st July. The full Annual Determination report is attached to this report.

3 years ago, Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council (CGRC) was placed into a new category called ‘Rural Large’. Prior to this Cootamundra and Gundagai was in the ‘Rural’ Category.

The fees for ‘Rural Large’ and ‘Rural’ councils are detailed in the tables below:

Councillor Annual Fee ($) effective 1 July 2026

Category	Minimum	Maximum
Rural Large	10,920	19,590
Rural	10,920	14,450

Mayor Additional Fee* ($) effective 1 July 2026

Category	Minimum	Maximum
Rural Large	17,440	42,030
Rural	11,620	31,510

Financial

In 2025, Council once again adopted to remain at the 23/24 maximum ‘Rural’ amount payable of $13,030 (Councillor annual fee) and $28,430 (Mayors additional annual fee) for 2025/26.

Council is required to consider the annual fee between the minimum and maximum amounts determined by the Local Government Remuneration Tribunal, applicable to the category that council is allocated into.

Hence the fee to be paid for 2026-27 must be in the range:

	Minimum	Maximum
Councillor	10,920	19,590
Mayor (additional)	17,440	42,030

OLG 23a Guideline consideration

Does not conflict with guidelines.

Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

26 May 2026

7.3 Finance

7.3.1 Finance Update - April 2026

DOCUMENT NUMBER

472254

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 April 2026, be noted.

Report

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

Operations

Income

The operational income is at 77% 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	$449,353	$445,000	101%	J
Business Department	$238,507	$240,000	99%	J
Engineering Cootamundra	$4,195,723	$3,554,671	118%	J
Engineering Gundagai	$760,866	$863,416	88%	J
Executive Department	$229,466	$190,000	121%	J	High due to Workers Comp Insurance bonus received.
Finance Department	$46,957	$30,000	157%	J
Grants	$5,391,003	$10,557,242	51%	L	To review grants received and those outstanding.
Rates Cootamundra	$6,930,098	$6,930,098	100%	J
Rates Gundagai	$4,789,534	$4,789,534	100%	J
Services Cootamundra	$3,388,864	$3,984,838	85%	J
Services Gundagai	$1,522,548	$1,865,450	82%	J
Sewer Cootamundra	$2,257,760	$3,324,497	68%	J
Sewer Gundagai	$600,164	$883,727	68%	J
Water Cootamundra	$3,388,727	$3,891,266	87%	J
Water Gundagai	$1,669,075	$1,916,594	87%	J
Plant Hire - Gundagai	$1,164,305	$1,596,000	73%	J
Plant Hire - Cootamundra	$1,856,071	$2,204,000	84%	J
Interest on Investments	$1,033,427	$1,333,835	77%	J
Overheads Recovery	$3,031,140	$7,305,000	41%	K	Wages adjustment in Mar 26 QBR will have an adjustment to oncost recovery budget.
Total	$42,943,585	$55,905,168	77%

Expenditure

Operational Expenditure is at 76% when comparing actual to budget.

Department	Expense Actual	Expense Budget	% Spent	Result	Comment
Building Department	$1,237,457	$2,099,040	59%	J
Business Department	$2,965,015	$4,374,391	68%	J
Engineering Cootamundra	$9,193,861	$9,818,708	94%	J
Engineering Gundagai	$4,902,752	$5,516,380	89%	J
Executive Department	$1,596,985	$2,600,713	61%	J
Finance Department	$2,260,108	$2,480,558	91%	J
Services Cootamundra	$4,309,865	$6,232,936	69%	J
Services Gundagai	$2,281,321	$2,974,363	77%	J
Sewer Cootamundra	$675,517	$2,157,942	31%	L	Staff resourcing issues have led to a lack of capacity. Existing staff focusing on critical faults only.
Sewer Gundagai	$715,229	$1,607,103	45%	L	Staff resourcing issues to vacant positions. Work on pump stations underway.
Water Cootamundra	$2,585,033	$3,837,264	67%	K
Water Gundagai	$614,174	$1,652,603	37%	L	Staff resourcing issues – Cleaning of reservoirs commencing in last quarter.
Plant Expenses - Cootamundra	$1,217,390	$1,450,000	84%	K
Plant Expenses - Gundagai	$735,730	$1,050,000	70%	K
Depreciation	$10,841,732	$13,010,078	83%	J
Overhead Expenses	$3,803,663	$4,940,000	77%	J
Total	$31,887,213	$42,006,950	76%

Capital

Income

Capital income is at 81% of budget when comparing actual to budget.

Asset Category	Total YTD.	Budget	% Received	Result	Comments
Plant & Equipment - Cootamundra	$273,376	$ 325,000	84%	J
Plant & Equipment - Gundagai	$ 238,357	$ 325,000	73%	J
Property Disposal – Cootamundra	-	-	0%
Property Disposal – Gundagai	-	-	0%
Dog on the Tuckerbox	$400,000	$457,500	87%	J	Annie Pyers Drive Road Reserve still being subdivided.
Section 7.12 Developer Contributions	$118,267	$160,000	74%	J
TOTAL	$1,030,000	$1,267,500	81%

Expenditure

Capital expenditure is at 35% of budget when comparing actual to budget.

Asset Category	Total	Budget	% Spent	Result	Comments
Cootamundra Land	$4,800	$245,000	2%	K	Aerodrome Project Planning – On hold due to Demerger.
Cootamundra Plant	$1,012,712	$1,300,000	78%	J
Cootamundra Roads	$1,249,014	$2,759,414	45%	K	Ongoing work for reseals still to be billed.
Cootamundra Building	$62,263	$819,757	8%	K	Fisher Park Amenities and Showground Evac Centre Commencing. Mitchell Park Canteen has received quotes.
Cootamundra Recreation	$195,624	$285,165	69%	J
Cootamundra Waste	$0	$0	0%	J	Nil Budget
Cootamundra Bridges	$0	$20,000	0%	K	Budget to be carried forward to 2027.
Cootamundra Water	$35,820	$932,427	4%	K	Water Mains replacement starting now. Res 1 & 2 projects have $350k budget on hold pending Goldenfield’s service agreement.
Cootamundra Sewer	$1,794,130	$3,403,000	53%	J	RFQ for Vent pipe replacement closed. Sewer Mains Replacement commencing.
Cootamundra Demerger	$144,754	$1,500,000	9%	K	Actual shows current year exp
Cootamundra PROPERTY	$1,500	$50,000	0%	K	Cemetery Masterplan TBC
Gundagai Bridges	$101,490	$203,433	50%	J
Gundagai Building	$127,820	$499,660	26%	K
Gundagai Demerger	$144,754	$1,500,000	9%	J	Actual shows current year exp
Gundagai Plant	$869,682	$1,300,000	67%	J
Gundagai PROPERTY	$16,600	$120,994	0%	K	Exp on Cemetery Toilet Block
Gundagai Recreation	$102,670	$816,862	13%	K	Gundagai Pool –checking operating expenditure for capital.
Gundagai Roads	$1,848,720	$2,627,777	70%	J
Gundagai Sewer	$217,023	$1,330,000	16%	K	Sewer Main Rehab in preliminary stage. Caravan Park Pump in survey stage. William St Pump Station – design only.
Gundagai Waste	$0	$720,000	0%	K	Gundagai waste exp on hold until report completed (Cr Res)
Gundagai Water	$1,142,897	$5,703,959	20%	J
IT	$0	$50,000	0%	K	No IT purchases to date
Total	$9,048,716	$26,187,448	35%

Demerger Costs Update

Financial

There are no financial implications associated with this report.

OLG 23a Guideline consideration

Report purpose does not conflict with guidelines.

Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

26 May 2026

7.5 Engineering Cootamundra

7.5.1 Cootamundra Engineering Report - April 2026

DOCUMENT NUMBER

471151

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 April 2026 be noted.

Introduction

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

Discussion

State Roads

Heavy Patching along the Olympic Highway & Burley Griffin Way have continued throughout April. Line marking commenced on both highways on 14 April.

Stage 2 of heavy patching on Burley Griffin Way is now complete. A damaged safety barrier was identified during routine inspections and was repaired.

Olympic Highway MR78270 heavy patching (3-lanes) and Burley Griffin Way Segment 84030 (Wallendbeen Hill) reseal line marking completed. Lines at Cootamundra Cemetery (Rail Overpass) have also been refreshed. Dirnaseer Road intersection asphalt works was planned for the end of April with completion in early May.

Olympic Highway vegetation works started on Tuesday, 7 April progressing from Wallendbeen towards Cootamundra. Following completion of this section of highway, vegetation works will be resumed at the Junee boundary.

Wallendbeen Rest Area toilet block refurbishment commenced Tuesday 7 April and is now complete. A white ant infested tree near the toilet block was removed as part of vegetation works.

Local Roads

Grading Crews are busy with Millvale Road shoulders and minor patching in the same area. Crews have completed 18,000 squares of shoulders and open drains on Yeo Yeo Hampstead Road.

The construction crew have completed 21,000 squares of heavy patching on Old Gundagai Road.

The concrete crew carried out minor works around town between larger projects prior to commencing on the stormwater replacement at the Wallendbeen viaduct. Small kerb jobs have been completed throughout the Cootamundra township in between larger projects including Parker Street kerb and removing and replacing pits lintels and pipes at Wallendbeen’s Rail under pass.

The patching crew are undertaking minor patching of flood damaged roads, and have completed 2,000 squares of minor patching on Ryans Lane, Brawlin Road and Brawlin Springs Road.

Work is continuing on signs, pothole repairs and slashing throughout the area.

Line marking has been completed in the following locations:-

- Jugiong Road

- Rosehill Road

- Beggan Beggan Road

- Muttama Road

- Stockinbingal Road

Line marking programs are being developed for renewal works on regional roads and rail crossings. Refreshed line marking to stop lines and railway crossing decals has been carried out at Cowcumbla Street, Gundagai Road and Pinkerton Road level crossings.

The stormwater replacement project at Silo Road, Wallendbeen has seen pipes delivered onsite and services located in readiness for construction.

The design for Olney Street drainage improvements has been finalised and materials ordered. Programming is underway in preparation for commencement of physical works.

Road Safety

CGRC Documentation – The CGRC Road Safety Action Plan has now completed the 28‑day public exhibition period and received nil submissions from the community. A report has been included in the April Council meeting agenda for final endorsement. Work is continuing on the Cycleway Plan for Cootamundra.

Event Management – The Cootamundra RSL conducted the Cootamundra ANZAC Day Parade. A supporting Traffic Guidance Scheme was completed for the parade with traffic control being carried out by Civil Works staff on the day, notification sent to NSW Police and Transport for NSW (TfNSW), and an approval letter was issued for the Cootamundra ANZAC Day Parade.

The COOTA400 took place at the Cootamundra Aerodrome from Thursday 30 April to Saturday 2 May 2026, with all relevant documentation reviewed and approved by Council. Council has received additional aerodrome bookings from Pro Street Challenge for 1–2 August 2026 and 5–6 March 2027.

The National Walk for Truth 2026 is scheduled to travel through the Gundagai area between 15 and 18 May 2026 on their way from State Parliament Victoria towards Parliament House in Canberra. Organisers have been coordinating closely with Council and TfNSW to ensure the safe and smooth passage of participants.

Grant Funding Applications – The 2026–2027 TfNSW project applications have been completed and submitted for approval, with seven projects lodged totalling $21,740 in grant funding, including $14,040 allocated for VMS board hire payable to Council.

Community Awareness – Strategically placed VMS boards and Council’s social and print media channels have been utilised to remind the community of the Double Demerit Anzac Day weekend and to promote safe driving. After the conclusion of the long weekend, the VMS boards were reprogrammed to target speeding drivers.

The two‑day Coota Connections Expo—Seniors Day was held on 14 April and Youth Day on 15 April highlighting mobility scooter road rules, e‑device legislation, pedestrian safety, and helmet star ratings. Catering is funded by Transport for NSW.

Attendance at the Bike Safety Bootcamp on Thursday 9 April, facilitated by the Temora Shire Road Safety Officer in partnership with the Youth Inclusion Officer.

TfNSW Road Safety Action Plan Forum – Staff attended the Wagga Wagga Road Safety Action Forum on Monday 30 March.

TfNSW Reporting Obligations – Quarterly salary reimbursement has been reported, and resource requirements for funded projects in 2026–2027 have been submitted in accordance with the RSO contract.

TfNSW Projects – Final evaluations for Council’s 2025–2026 Transport for NSW–funded projects are currently being completed. Council has submitted seven new projects for the 2026–2027 funding program, which are now under review, and is awaiting final approval from Transport for NSW.

Traffic Counters – Two traffic counters have been programmed for deployment. One will be installed on Sutton Street to monitor vehicle speeds as they enter the 50 km/h zone, and the other will be positioned on Stockinbingal Road near the Burley Griffin intersection and railway crossing to collect data on heavy‑vehicle movements.

Traffic data reports have been compiled for West Street, Annie Pyers Drive, Gobarralong Road, Red Hill Road, Nanangroe Road, and Muttama Road at the Cullinga Creek causeway. The West Street data has been shared with TfNSW, NSW Police, and Gundagai Public School to support their investigations into school crossing safety.

Water & Sewer

Water and sewer staff have been attending to water leaks and routine maintenance throughout April, and sewer chokes cleared as required. Daily water quality tests were carried out at reservoirs and off takes along with meter reads.

The Water and Sewer Mains Replacement Program has commenced with contractors starting investigations of Sewer Mains. Significant root infiltration and damage has been identified, to the extent that some of the mains vertical grades have been displaced. Further investigation is underway to ensure planned replacement methodology is still suitable.

Cootamundra Standpipe Income – April 2026

2025/2026		Income	No. 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
2026	February	$0.00	0
2026	March	$0.00	0
2026	April	$0.00	0
2025/2026	Totals	$13,999.83	608

Workshop

Workshop staff have been busy carrying out general services, fitting out the new weed spraying vehicle and doing some major work to the Garbage truck which required replacement of the bin grab system, shackle pins and bushes in the front axle.

Mower repairs including blades, belts and spindle replacements have been completed following the spring growing period.

A new oil separator has been installed at Depot 1 wash bay. Improvements were made to the existing system to improve functionality and recommission the wash bay with minimal disruption to operations.

Financial

Projects funded from various funding sources, as noted above.

Maintenance works funding from 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

26 May 2026

7.6 Engineering Gundagai

7.6.1 Plant Replacement Program 2026/2027

DOCUMENT NUMBER

471833

REPORTING OFFICER

Thomas Hogg, Acting Manager Engineering Gundagai

AUTHORISING OFFICER

Trevor Dando, Acting Deputy General Manager Operations

RELEVANCE TO COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN

4. Collaborative and progressive leadership

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

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

There are no Financial implications associated with this report.

LEGISLATIVE IMPLICATIONS

There are no Legislative implications associated with this report.

POLICY IMPLICATIONS

There are no Policy implications associated with this report.

ATTACHMENTS

Nil

Recommendation

That Council:

1. Endorse the 2026/2027 Plant Replacement Program.

2. Endorse the 2026/2027 Plant Replacement Budget of $2,000,000 gross purchase, $696,000 asset disposals, resulting in net capital purchase of $1,304,000.

3. Authorise the advance ordering of plant given the significant lead times expected, subject to endorsement of the 2026/27 budget.

Introduction

The plant replacement program has been reviewed by relevant managers and finalised in preparation for 26-27 financial year. This typically would be adopted with the financial budget, however, early consideration of plant is warranted due to the extended wait times for plant purchasing.

Discussion

The plant replacement program has been developed based on the plant items that have met their scheduled replacement date, plant items that have high utilisation resulting in the need for replacement and management of cash flows across financial years and budget areas. Plant items are split into three key areas, light vehicles – leaseback, light vehicles – operational and heavy vehicles. Managers have contacted relevant vehicle suppliers, who have provided estimated timeframes for plant delivery.

Heavy Plant Table 1 outlines the Heavy Plant items scheduled for replacement in the 26-27 financial year, the approximate value of the plant, the suppliers estimated delivery timeframe and those intended to be procured before the 26-27 financial year.

Table 1 –Heavy Plant Replacement FY 2026 – 2027 – Gundagai

Plant Number	Description	Estimated Sale of existing Plant Item	Estimated Purchase Price	Net Purchase Cost	Comments
2305	HAMM Padfoot Roller	$55,000	$150,000	$95,000	Replace due to Age
1105	Kubota Mini Excavator	$30,000	$105,000	$75,000	Replace due to Age
2203	Kubota Skid Steer Loader	$45,000	$135,000	$90,000	Replace due to Age
3402	Hino Dual Cab Truck	$30,000	$80,000	$50,000	Replace due to Age
3403	Hino Dual Cab Truck	$30,000	$80,000	$50,000	Replace due to Age
3603	Kenworth Prime Mover	$60,000	$175,000	$115,000	Replace due to Age
NEW	VMS Signs	$0	$50,000	$50,000	NEW PLANT
	TOTAL	$250,000	$775,000	$525,000

Table 2 – Light Plant Replacement FY 2026 – 2027 – Gundagai

Plant Number	Description	Estimated Sale of existing Plant Item	Estimated Purchase Price	Net Purchase Cost	Comments
7502	2012 Toyota Hilux 4x2 Single Cab Utility	$15,000	$40,000	$25,000	Replace due to Age
7531	2018 Holden Colorado LS	$20,000	$50,000	$30,000	101818km
7544	2020 Mazda BT-50 XT 2.2L C/Chassis 4x2	$17,000	$40,000	$23,000	80363km
7539	2019 Mazda BT-50 3.2L Single C/Chassis	$15,000	$55,000	$40,000	135823km
7065	2022 Subaru Forester MY23 2.5i AWD Wagon	$25,000	$40,000	$15,000	105572km
	TOTAL	$92,000	$225,000	$133,000

Table 3 – Heavy Plant Replacement FY 2026 – 2027 – Cootamundra

Plant Number	Description	Estimated Sale of existing Plant Item	Estimated Purchase Price	Net Purchase Cost	Comments
4004	Compact Utility Tractor	$5,000	$34,000	$29,000	Replace due to Age
3219	Fuso Truck	$20,000	$70,000	$50,000	Replace due to Age
3220	Fuso Truck	$25,000	$120,000	$95,000	Replace due to Age
3221	Fuso Truck	$25,000	$120,000	$95,000	Replace due to Age
3610	Hino Tipper Truck	$70,000	$230,000	$160,000	Replace due to Age
	TOTAL	$145,000	$574,000	$429,000

Table 4 – Light Plant Replacement FY 2026 – 2027 – Cootamundra

Plant Number	Description	Estimated Sale of existing Plant Item	Estimated Purchase Price	Net Purchase Cost	Comments
7072	Toyota Corolla Hybrid Ascent	$25,000	$40,000	$15,000	115367km
7033	2018 Holden Equinox LS FWD	$10,500	$50,000	$39,500	147822km
7046	2018 Ford Escape ZG ST-Line AWD	$10,500	$45,000	$34,500	113423km
7536	2018 Holden Colorado LS 4x4 C/Chassis (Workshop)	$18,000	$50,000	$32,000	105544km
7537	2019 Toyota Landcruiser LC Military GX - Nox. Weed	$60,000	$80,000	$20,000	164753.9km
7543	2019 Ford Ranger 4x2 Hi-Rider Single C/C Utility	$20,000	$46,000	$26,000	89809km
7066	2023 FORD RANGER 2023 RANGER XLT EYZ97M	$35,000	$60,000	$25,000	115110km
7069	2023 Ford Ranger XL FBR11M	$30,000	$55,000	$25,000	131880km
	TOTAL	$209,000	$426,000	$217,000

Financial

The plant replacement program will result in a total capital expenditure allocation of $2,000,000 being assigned from the 26-27 financial year budget. Of this, an allocation to be determined may be committed prior to the financial year.

The proposed budget is detailed in Table 5. A significant portion of replacement program will be funded through plant hire income when plant is utilised on projects, along with income from sale of the plant items being replaced.

Table 5 – Operating and Capital Budget 2026-2027 compared to 2025-2026

Plant Budget 26/27		Plant Budget 25/26
Operating income
Leaseback fees	$ (78,750)	$ (75,000)
Diesel fuel rebate	$ (120,000)	$ (114,000)
Insurance reimbursements	-	$ (10,000)
Plant hire income	$ (4,200,000)	$ (3,800,000)
Total operating income	$ (4,398,750)	$ (3,999,000)
Operating expenditure
Salaries and wages	$ 442,822	$ 466,922
Materials purchased	$ 929,874	$ 980,480
Fuel	$ 887,318	$ 1,085,774
Insurance	$ 239,381	$ 226,359
Registration	$ 213,350	$ 220,094
Depot expenditure	$ 87,784	$ 52,363
Total operating expenditure	$ 2,800,529	$ 3,031,992
Net operating surplus	$ (1,598,221)	$ (967,008)
Capital income
Sale of plant – (Heavy & Light)	($ 696,000)	($ 650,000)
Interest on reserve	($ 15,000)	($ 15,000)
Total capital income	($ 711,000)	($ 665,000)
Capital expense
Purchase of Heavy & Light Plant	$2,000,000	$2,600,000
Equipment purchase	$ 0	$ 0
Total capital expense	$ 2,000,000	$ 2,600,000
Net capital expenditure	$ 1,289,000	$ 1,935,000
Plant Surplus 26/27	$ 309,220	Deficit 25/26 $ 967,992

Plant Reserves
Opening plant reserve*	$ 2,567,537
Transfer to/(from) reserve	$ 309,220
Closing plant Reserves	$ 2,876,757

*Actual as of April 2026. This is expected to improve slightly by 1 July 2026.

OLG 23a Guideline consideration

Procuring plant promptly, is aimed at ensuring that the Plant Replacement Program 2026-2027 does not roll into the 27-28 financial year, where it will have additional implications due to the demerger.

Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

26 May 2026

7.6.2 Gundagai Engineering Report - April 2026

DOCUMENT NUMBER

472049

REPORTING OFFICER

Thomas Hogg, Acting Manager Engineering Gundagai

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 Gundagai Engineering Report for the month of April 2026 be noted.

Introduction

The Gundagai Engineering Report for the month of April 2026 is submitted for the information of Council and the community.

Discussion

Gundagai Rail Viaduct

During March Council raised some concern regarding the long time frames for the structural options for the Gundagai Rail Viaduct timber trestle bridge over Middleton Road on O I Bell Drive. Council received correspondence from Transport for NSW (TfNSW) in late April acknowledging the time taken to progress this important piece of work and understands Council’s concerns. TfNSW advised that they had received a draft report in late November 2025 and have been conducting a thorough review of the report and requested that additional work be completed. It is anticipated that options and a delivery plan for the project will be presented in the coming months. Subject to internal approvals, a meeting with Council will be scheduled for June 2026.

Road Maintenance

A bollard at the intersection of Sheridan Street and Otway Street has been replaced due to the previous bollard being damaged by a motor vehicle collision. Sections of the street which are not accessible for the street sweeping units have been cleaned and material moved manually by staff prior to the street sweeping unit from Cootamundra attending to undertake street gutter cleaning in Gundagai streets.

Maintenance grading has been completed in the Tumblong area on Laudra Road, Lucindale Road and Tumblong Reserve Road. Grading works were also completed on Parsons Creek Road, Redhill Road, Fairview Road and Wee Jasper Road at Adjungbilly. Grading works then moved on to Tumblong Reserve Road and Wee Jasper Road. Grading in the Yammatree/Brawlin Road area is expected to be completed by the end of May.

Patching has occurred in the Adjungbilly area. Natural Disaster repairs to Parsons Creek Road bridge were well underway in the month of April and will be completed in May.

Speed restriction signs for the Humelink project have been installed, making the area safer for local residents, school bus operators and all traffic passing through the area.

Water and Sewer

Gundagai water treatment plant operators have been closely monitoring water levels in the Murrumbidgee River. It has been identified that the inlet pipe is too close to the surface of the water which risks a vortex forming sucking in air. Staff have worked quickly to rectify the issue by installing an extension onto the inlet. The water level has dropped below the original intake level and we are now relying on the extension which was installed to resolve the vortex issue. A major watermain break occurred on Mount Street during April, the area was secured before repairs were undertaken by staff.

Council has identified an additional contractor stealing water from fire hydrants. This has been referred onto the Natural Resources Access Regulator. Stealing water from fire hydrants not only crates a financial burden on Council from loss of income but it also increases the risk of dirty water to residents’ homes and water contamination if the filling truck/s accidently backflow back into the mains. Unauthorised access to hydrants also increases maintenance costs in addition to increased time spent on inspections of the water assets and subsequent repairs when hydrants are not closed off correctly.

Capital Works

Council received correspondence from NSW Aboriginal Land Council advising that they have no objection to Council undertaking the works in accordance with our Crown Licence conditions on the water main extension to Annie Pyers Precinct. As a result, a letter of award was provided to the successful tenderer.

The next stage of the project is to have an inception meeting with the successful contractor and develop a program for the works. With the current crisis in the Middle East the cost of construction materials has increased. In addition to increased diesel prices, this will have an effect of the final price of the project.

National Heavy Vehicle Regulator

Heavy vehicle applications continue to be received for vehicle movements related to major projects currently underway throughout the LGA. Council staff are assessing these in accordance with the approved Vehicle Movement Plans in addition to Council’s direction from the report to Council in October. Of note, Council is continuing to receive Over Size Over Mass (OSOM) applications which are inconsistent with previously approved routes leading to the applications are being rejected.

Council has received 40 applications and reviewed a total of 43 Access Permit Applications for the LGA during April 2026.

Applications Received

Granted - Notice

Approved

(no conditions)

Approved with Conditions

Refusals

Closed

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). Applications are assessed in accordance with Council resolution.

Applications are currently taking 1.58 days for Council to assess on average from the time Council receives them to when Council approves (with or without conditions) Applications are taking 9.57 days on average from the time they are lodged until the time that National Heavy Vehicle Regulator issue the permit.

Road Safety

An update has been requested on the investigation into a crossing guard for Gundagai Public School on West Street, with all items now listed under General Business for the May Local Transport Forum meeting.

Financial

Projects funded from various funding sources and are as noted above and align with the adopted 2025/2026 budget.

OLG 23a Guideline consideration

OLG 23a Guidelines have been reviewed and the work outlined in this report does not conflict with the guidelines.

Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

26 May 2026

7.7 Regional Services Gundagai

7.7.1 Gundagai Regional Services Report - April 2026

DOCUMENT NUMBER

472256

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 April 2026 be noted.

Introduction

This report provides an overview of the key projects, operational activities, and service delivery outcomes undertaken by the Regional Services Division during April 2026. Throughout the reporting period, Council continued to deliver a broad range of maintenance, infrastructure, and community support services across the Gundagai region. Works remained focused on maintaining public infrastructure, improving community facilities, enhancing public safety, and ensuring the effective delivery of essential operational services. The following sections outline completed works, ongoing projects, and routine operational activities undertaken during the month.

1. Regional Services – Parks, Reserves, Sporting Fields, Playgrounds and Projects

Key Achievements for the Month:

Council staff continued to deliver a high standard of maintenance and improvement works across parks, reserves, and recreational facilities. Key activities included:

· Proactive fire mitigation works completed in designated areas to improve community safety and reduce fuel loads.

· Completion of routine maintenance works at the Gundagai Saleyards to maintain operational functionality.

· Watering, turf management, and routine upkeep of sporting fields to maintain surface quality and usability.

· Irrigation system inspections, maintenance, and repairs undertaken to support sustainable water management practices.

· Ongoing maintenance of parks, reserves, sporting fields, and playgrounds to support safe and welcoming community environments.

2. Gundagai Memorial Swimming Pool

Contractors continue to undertake repairs and maintenance works on the pool superstructure.

Works undertaken during the reporting period included:

· Removal and replacement of damaged sections of expansion joints.

· Removal and replacement of deteriorated surface tiling from the pool hob and face.

· Installation of shade sail structure with continued works to take place on the shade sail tops.

These works form part of Council’s ongoing commitment to maintaining safe and functional aquatic facilities for community use.

3. Cemeteries

Council continues to maintain cemetery facilities across the region to a high standard, ensuring each site remains respectful, accessible, and well presented for community members and visitors. Routine maintenance, grounds upkeep, infrastructure inspections, and site monitoring are regularly undertaken to preserve the amenity, safety, and dignity of these important community assets. Ongoing general maintenance, including pathway upkeep, infrastructure inspections, and site monitoring.

Activities undertaken during the reporting period included:

· Ongoing general maintenance works, including pathway upkeep, infrastructure inspections, and site monitoring.

· Seven interments conducted in accordance with Council procedures, ensuring respectful and professional service delivery.

· Continued engagement with the community, with Pre-Need contracts accepted to support future burial planning arrangements, monumental permit applications submitted and approved.

Routine mowing, lawn maintenance, weeding, and grounds maintenance completed to uphold presentation standards across all cemetery sites.

4. Biosecurity

Biosecurity activities focused on strengthening compliance, improving community awareness, and supporting responsible weed management practices throughout the region.

Key activities included:

· Continued education and awareness initiatives regarding the transfer and spread of prohibited matter by vehicles and machinery.

· Ongoing inspection and compliance practices.

· Community engagement activities aimed at encouraging compliance with biosecurity obligations and best-practice land management.

Council remains committed to supporting regional biosecurity outcomes through education, monitoring, and collaborative engagement with landholders and stakeholders.

“Strong Biosecurity Starts with Weed Awareness”

5. Gundagai Public & Council Facilities income

Gundagai RV Park Income April 2026

· 01/04/26 – 3/04/26 - Total Income $422.65

Gundagai Landfill Income April 2026

· 01/04/26 – 30/04/26 - General Income $4,481.85

Gundagai Standpipe Income April 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
2026	February	$26,650.59	17	$2794.07
2026	March	$25,746.73	20	$6768.10
2026	April	$17,136.31	19	$14,104.02
25/26	Totals	$101,482.26	153

Gundagai Saleyards Truck Wash April 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
2026	February	$2,455.41	28	$3486.04
2026	March	$3,442.91	26	$3571.64
2026	April	$3641.40	28	$3633.62
25/26	Totals	$36,484.68	290

6. Compliance

Council continues to ensure compliance with the Companion Animals Act 1998 and the Local Government (General) Regulation 2021 (Regulation 217(1)(f)) through ongoing monitoring, enforcement, and community education initiatives.

Feral Cat Management Plan

Capture, Assessment, Rehoming and Humane Disposal.

This plan outlines Council’s approach to the humane management of feral and stray cats within the local government area, including procedures for capture, assessment, rehabilitation, rehoming where appropriate, and humane euthanasia where animals are diseased, unmanageable, or pose a biosecurity or public health risk.

The objectives of the program are to:

· Protect public health and safety.

· Reduce impacts on native wildlife and the environment.

· Promote responsible animal management practices.

· Ensure humane treatment of all animals in accordance with legislative requirements.

· Support rehoming outcomes wherever feasible and appropriate.

Council will continue to promote responsible pet ownership through:

· Public education campaigns

· Desexing awareness initiatives

· Microchipping and registration promotion

· Information regarding abandonment offences

· Encouraging early reporting of feral cat colonies

“Protect Wildlife. Prevent Feral Cats. Desex, Register, Report.”

Abandoned vehicles

An Expression of Interest (EOI) process was conducted for the sale of abandoned vehicles and equipment. A total of 7 items were listed, with 5 items successfully sold through the process. The disposal process was carried out in line with the requirements of the NSW legislative framework governing unattended and abandoned vehicles.

Prior to disposal, Council undertook the required compliance and notification processes, including investigations into ownership, issuance of notices where applicable, and statutory holding periods. Items not sold in the initial EOI process will remain subject to Council’s disposal procedures.

A further EOI process is scheduled for the end of the month and will include the remaining unsold items together with additional vehicles and eligible impounded property that have satisfied the legislative requirements for disposal.

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 for the guidelines.

Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

26 May 2026

7.7.2 Prince Alfred Bridge Timbers

DOCUMENT NUMBER

472354

REPORTING OFFICER

Greg Ewings, Acting Manager Regional Services Gundagai

AUTHORISING OFFICER

Trevor Dando, Acting Deputy General Manager Operations

RELEVANCE TO COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN

4. Collaborative and progressive leadership

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

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

There are no Financial implications associated with this report.

LEGISLATIVE IMPLICATIONS

There are no Legislative implications associated with this report.

POLICY IMPLICATIONS

There are no Policy implications associated with this report.

ATTACHMENTS

Nil

Recommendation

That Council:

1. Notes the report on the Prince Alfred Bridge Timbers stored at the Gundagai Waste Site.

2. Offers for sale the timbers located in the Group One Pile as one lot on a as is where is basis through an Expression of Interest process.

Introduction

This report provides information on the condition of the salvaged Prince Alfred Bridge Timbers following the assessment undertaken in response to Council Resolution 086/2025 from the February 2025 Council meeting.

RESOLUTION 086/2025

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

2. The results of the assessment be reported to Council for consideration.

Discussion

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

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

The issue of the future purpose and use of the timber has been reported on and discussed on numerous occasions since the decision to demolish the Bridge was made. The NSW Government commenced the process in determining the future purpose by commissioning a heritage expert to memorialise the Prince Alfred Bridge in 2021. In preparation for the provision of a suitable memorial or memorials of the Bridge, community consultation undertaken in 2022. The consultation included a survey to residents asking for suggestions for the use of the salvaged timbers with approximately 140 memorial ideas received. These ideas received were to go through an assessment to ensure appropriate tribute(s) were prioritised.

Details of the process or results of the assessment of the 140 ideas and any subsequent recommendations for suitable memorial(s) were not received.

Due to there not being a clear plan or use for the estimated 460 m3 of salvaged timbers it has remained stored at the Gundagai waste facility siting on approximately 1200m2 of usable space the waste site as in the (site plan 1) below which shows the position of the timbers combined into three separate groups.

Site Plan 1

Aerial view of a construction site

AI-generated content may be incorrect.

In addition to taking up space at the site the current storage, is not good for the timber with it stacked in piles and exposed to the ground and elements for over six years which has led to further deterioration.

This continued deterioration is reducing the amount of the timber that is viable for recycling and reuse. The assessment of the timbers found that an estimated 60% of the timbers were of fair condition, 10% in poor condition and 30% in good condition. Most of the fair and poor condition timbers were in Group One and Group Three piles of the timbers.

The timber does have a commercial value with similar recycled hardwood bridge timbers having current market rate estimated at between $10 to $80 per lineal meter pending the length, thickness and width of the section and its condition due to contaminates, splitting, broken or rotting.

The Prince Alfred Bridge was approximately 650 metres long by 7metres wide and had average deck timbers of 200 mm wide. This equates to approximately 22,750 lineal metres of potentially salvaged timber from the bridge.

If all the timber is sold at an average of $20.00 per lineal metre, then potentially Council could receive $455,000 thousand dollars of income for the salvaged timber.

Acknowledging there has not been any formal details for the potential use of the timbers nor has funding from NSW Government been granted to contribute to cost of the utilising the timbers, it is proposed that Council offer for sale the timbers located in Group One Pile as one lot on a as is where is basis through an Expression of Interest process to establish the value of the timbers in today’s market.

This course of action if implemented would free up space at the waste site, provide additional income while giving Council additional time to determine the amount of timber that would need to be retained for the use in any future potential Gundagai projects.

Financial

The sale of the Group One Timber by an Expression of Interest process would be potentially provided additional income.

OLG 23a Guideline consideration

There are no implications to the guidelines.

Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

26 May 2026

7.7.3 2026 Waste Services Review

DOCUMENT NUMBER

472635

REPORTING OFFICER

Greg Ewings, Acting Manager Regional Services Gundagai

AUTHORISING OFFICER

Trevor Dando, Acting Deputy General Manager Operations

RELEVANCE TO COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN

3. Protected and enhanced environment

3.1 A natural environment is valued and protected

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

The costs associated with the proposed Actions from the Waste Review be funded from the Waste Reserves.

LEGISLATIVE IMPLICATIONS

There are no Legislative implications associated with this report.

POLICY IMPLICATIONS

There are no Policy implications associated with this report.

ATTACHMENTS

1. Waste Services Review ⇩

2. Business Case for the Installation of Weighbridge & Site Hut at the Gundagai Waste Site ⇩

3. Business Case for Waste Loader Acquisition ⇩

Recommendation

1. That the 2026 Waste Service Review be received and noted.

2. That the following Waste Services Initiatives identified in the 2026 Waste Review be adopted:

2.1. Retain external contracting arrangements for transfer station servicing in the short term and prepare separate request for Tender for the Transfer Station service and the Burra Road servicing.

2.2. Continue investigation into alternative waste transfer improvements including on-site compaction methods, transport and processing models including joining the SWRWMG Haulage by walking floor trailer model to improve cost efficiency.

2.3. Undertake a comprehensive financial review of Council’s waste services, including long-term sustainability and reserve funding requirements.

2.4. Investigate the proposal to introduce an appropriate Waste awareness campaign.

2.5. Undertake investigation the potential for providing an appropriate annual bulky waste service model for pensioners and disadvantaged residents within the kerbside collection areas.

2.6. Continue with capital needs as detailed in the 2026 Waste Review and the 2020-2030 Waste Strategy action plan as detailed below:

2.6.1. Site Fencing Gundagai - 850mtrs at $50.00 per metre $42,500.

2.6.2. Site Groundwater Bores Gundagai- Installation of Groundwater bores $20,000.

2.6.3. Site Security Improvements Gundagai – Installation of Solar and Battery system and additional CCTV Cameras - $22,000.

2.6.4. Provision of a new site Amenities and weighbridge – Estimated $340,000.

2.6.5. Purchase of High Reach Loader unit for the site – Estimated $160,000.

2.6.6. Allocate $20,000 from Capex to run a 6-month investigation into the need of a waste service for the Adjungbilly area by undertaking a trial to determine the waste volumes of the area so that an appropriate service and associated cost of providing the service can be determined and a feasibility assessment can be undertaken and decided upon.

Introduction

This report provides the details of the measures undertaken by staff in response to Council Resolution 056/2025 from the February 2025 Council meeting.

Resolution 056/2025

That Council:

Acknowledges receipt of the report on the current Waste Services Operations across the Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council area.
Defers a decision on the capital improvements until:
2.1. The Minister for Local Government makes a determination in relation to the demerger of the Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council.
2.2. A Business Plan, including income and expenditure, for the proposed waste facility improvements is provided.

Discussion

To prepare for the formulation of a business plan as per Resolution 056/2025 staff undertook a comprehensive investigation and service review of Council’s current waste service. During the review, the 2020–2030 Waste Strategy adopted by Council in 2020 was also examined to assess Council’s current position against the Strategy’s recommendations, business plan, action plan, and projected long-term financial plan expenditure.

The Waste Strategy Action plan clearly identified the operation site improvements for both the Cootamundra and the Gundagai sites and also included the capital improvements listed for both sites.

Since 2020 the many of the recommended site improvements both Capital and operational for the Cootamundra site have been implemented while there has been only minor implementation of any of the recommended site improvements both Capital and operational for the Gundagai site.

Waste management is inherently complex, requiring consideration of operational, financial, environmental and community impacts. Accordingly, any proposed changes to waste service delivery—particularly the introduction of new infrastructure or services—must be evaluated in the context of their broader implications for existing waste operations and overall Council service delivery.

The 2026 Waste Review Document (Attachment 1) evaluates the rationale, costs and operational impacts of the proposed waste strategy improvements on Council’s current waste services in a structured and methodical manner.

In addition to the improvements recommended to the Gundagai site including the fencing, site security, CCTV improvements, ground water monitoring, weighbridge and site amenities and on site loader being identified in the Strategy business plan and Action Plan, updated business cases for the purchase and installation of a weighbridge and site amenities (Attachment 2) and the purchase of a Loader for the site (Attachment 3) have been provided.

Financial

Funding of $604,500 from Council’s Waste reserve in 2026/2027 budget for the Gundagai Landfill upgrades as detailed in the recommendation including entrance upgrade with weighbridge and new site office /amenities building.

OLG 23a Guideline consideration

Does not conflict with Guidelines.

Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

26 May 2026

7.8 Regional Services Cootamundra

7.8.1 Cootamundra Regional Services Report - April 2026

DOCUMENT NUMBER

471149

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

The Cootamundra Regional Services Report for the month of April 2026 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 April 2026.

Discussion

Parks & Gardens

General customer requests continue to be attended to throughout April. In addition to routine maintenance, small tree requests and line of sight pruning are being completed as work flow allows. Due to a backlog of tree requests, contractors have been engaged to carry out some major works on trees that are deemed dangerous or have been on the list for extended period. Staff have undertaken pruning works along Olney Street from Hurley to Mackay Streets in preparation for the Civil Works team to complete replacement of curb and guttering.

Preparations for ANZAC Day ceremonies was a focus during early April. In addition to routine mowing and landscaping tasks, staff carried out rose pruning and hedge maintenance as well as a thorough cleaning of the Cenotaphs, clearing debris from roadways and weeding gardens in the vicinity of both Cootamundra and Stockinbingal Cenotaphs.

Staff provided event bins and assisted with events in various locations throughout April. Grounds maintenance was carried in preparation for the tractor pull at the Cootamundra Showground during the month. Staff also supplied bins for the annual Cootamundra Picnic Races at the racecourse.

Staff have carried out small maintenance jobs on public toilets to keep them at a standard that will prolong these buildings. Most repairs are due to the age of the buildings, as well as acts of vandalism which is on the increase again.

Line marking and maintenance of sports surfaces is continuing for winter sports, along with general turf care, troubleshooting and irrigation repairs as required.

A new footpath from Thompson Street to the Rotary Peace Pavillion in Albert Park has been completed following receival of the memorial pavers. The footpath improves accessibility to the area and is tied in with a ramp newly installed into the kerb. A number of pavers were purchased by members of the community to help fund the project.

Truck Wash

The truck wash recorded 140 transactions for the month, generating a total of $11,073.50 in income.

Cemeteries

There were 4 burials and 2 ashes internments at Cootamundra Cemetery in April.

Major works have been underway at the Cootamundra cemetery after inspections of large pine trees near the older monumental sections of the cemetery. In addition, seven trees were identified as requiring canopy reduction, with one of these needing a crane to complete the work. Arborists have been engaged to carry out remedial works on damaged limbs and the removal of deadwood. This tree maintenance has been carried out in conjunction with a clean-up in the monumental section with parks and gardens cleaning up of debris through the older sections of the cemetery.

Regulatory Services

One vehicle was impounded from Berthong Road and is being held as required under the Public Spaces Unattended Property Act.

The total Companion Animal fees collected for March was $265.

There was one cat and three dogs at the shelter at the beginning of the month. Four dogs and two cats were impounded.

One cat was euthanised as it was assessed as unsuitable for rehoming due to behaviour. Two cats are available for adoption.

Three dogs went to rescue, one adopted and one euthanised after being assessed as unsuitable for rehoming due to behaviour. Two dogs remain impounded, with one leaving for rescue early May.

Biosecurity

Inspections for April:

- 11 high risk roadsides were inspected

Spraying for April:

- 6 local roads

- Olympic Highway & Burley Griffen Way

- 14 Cooper Street – Elm Tree

Planned:

- Continued main road spraying of Olympic Highway, Burley Griffing Way, Jugiong Road, Old Gundagai Road.

- Cootamundra Cemetery, Cowcumbla Tank Reserve.

- 30 Private Property Inspections booked in first week of May to be undertaken by a contractor.

Overview:

- Main focus of the month has been to complete the Olympic Highway and Burley Griffin Way roadside spraying, and completing inspections of the Red Guide Post areas around the shire and updating the Red Guide Post Program which is nearing completion (three Red Guide Post zones to inspect).

- Contractor has been helping across Gundagai and Cootamundra completing a number of waterway inspections, as well as High Risk Site inspections to assist in reaching the WAP targets and weed inspection program.

Waste Services

The secondhand tip shop processed 68 transactions for April with a total of $1,257.30 in income. During this time staff have diverted 1200kg of waste from the landfill into the shop to be repurposed.

A total of 4.66 tonnes of recycled crushed concrete was sold this month and a total of 203 tonnes of compost soil. The concrete crushing has been completed producing two products for sale (a 20mm/70mm drainage aggregate and a 20mm road base). This process has diverted 6,500 tonnes of concrete, brick and tiles from landfill.

The EPA carried out an inspection at the Cootamundra landfill in April. Although we are still waiting on the final report, we did receive positive feedback from the EPA on the day of inspection.

Facilities

The refurbishment of Mackay Park toilet block at Wallendbeen has been complete. This included the removal and replacement of tiling, pressure washing, painting of walls, doors and roof trusses, new sinks, the installation of bird spikes to prevent bird nesting and new epoxy coating to the floors for improved durability and protection. Although there was signage onsite explaining the closure of the toilets and the reopening dates, unfortunately the lock and chain to secure the site was cut and removed, the signs were taken down, building fence panels removed and the toilet block was opened by a member of the public. This happened before the epoxy floor had time to cure properly and has left dirty shoe imprints in the epoxy flooring that can’t be removed. The timing of this upgrade wasn’t ideal, but due to the availability of the trades, the funding needing to be spent before 30 June 2026 and with the colder weather approaching we had to accept the date chosen or the upgrades would not have gone ahead. This upgrade was funded through the RMS.The library front sliding doors needed to be repaired as they would not open correctly to allow patrons into the building.

Refurbishment of the old Cootamundra Wattle sign that was previously erected in Parker Street has been completed and installed out the front of the Heritage Centre.

The Cootamundra indoor pool was emptied to undergo some much-needed repairs and maintenance. The floor and walls were acid washed, damaged tiles were removed and replaced with new grouting and silicone. The stainless-steel handrail was welded in a few areas where it had become displaced in sections. New UV lamps and filtration system were installed in the indoor pool plantroom along with new foot valves in the balance tank.

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

A screenshot of a computer

AI-generated content may be incorrect.

Capital Works Projects

Work has continued for the Fisher Park Changerooms project. The frames, trusses, windows, roof and gutters have all been installed. This is the last of the SCCF round 5 projects and will provide 2 female changerooms, a kitchen, bar and public amenities.

The Cemetery Masterplan project community consultation has closed. There were 39 surveys completed with community members contributing with ideas, priorities and functional improvements. Local funeral directors were also invited to provide their insight into the operational requirements for future planning of the Cootamundra cemetery. The feedback from the consultant is the level of response received is consistent with other councils with of a similar population.

Financial

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

OLG 23a Guideline consideration

No impacts associated with this report.

Cash at 30 April 2026	$ 27,526,160
Less:
Externally Restricted Reserves	(22,175,115)
Add:
Grant Debtors and Contract Asset Outstanding	289,348
Unrestricted Cash	5,640,393

Less:
Internally Restricted Allocations	(8,111,209)
Net Balance	(2,470,816)

Financial Year	Actual/Estimate	Amount
2023-24	Actual	$934,208
2024-25	Actual	$920,362
2025-26	Original Estimate	$867,330
2025-26	Actual YTD	$772.092
2025-26	Revised Estimate	$988,244

DOCUMENT NUMBER	471673
AUTHORISING OFFICER	Abb McAlister, Mayor
REPORTING OFFICER	Abb McAlister, Mayor
ATTACHMENTS	Nil

DOCUMENT NUMBER	472480
REPORTING OFFICER	Teresa Breslin, Executive Assistant to Mayor and General Manager
AUTHORISING OFFICER	Roger Bailey, Interim General Manager

DOCUMENT NUMBER	472473
REPORTING OFFICER	Roger Bailey, Interim General Manager
AUTHORISING OFFICER	Roger Bailey, Interim General Manager

DOCUMENT NUMBER	472472
REPORTING OFFICER	Roger Bailey, Interim General Manager
AUTHORISING OFFICER	Roger Bailey, Interim General Manager

DOCUMENT NUMBER	472471
REPORTING OFFICER	Roger Bailey, Interim General Manager
AUTHORISING OFFICER	Roger Bailey, Interim General Manager