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Business

Paper

 

Ordinary Council Meeting

 

Council Chambers, Gundagai

 

6:00PM, Tuesday 22nd September, 2026

 

Administration Centres:  1300 459 689

 

 

 

 


Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

22 September 2026

 

 

The Mayor & Councillors

Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council

PO Box 420

Cootamundra NSW 2590

NOTICE OF MEETING

An Ordinary Meeting of Council will be held in the Council Chambers, Gundagai on:

Tuesday, 22nd September, 2026 at 6:00PM

The agenda for the meeting is enclosed.

Roger Bailey

Interim General Manager

 

Live Streaming of Meetings Statement

 

This meeting is streamed live via the internet and an audio-visual recording of the meeting will be publicly available on Council's website.

 

By attending this meeting, you consent to your image and, or, voice being live streamed and publicly available. Please refrain from making any defamatory statements.

 

Statement of Ethical Obligations

 

The Mayor and Councillors are bound by the Oath/Affirmation of Office made at the start of the Council term to undertake their civic duties in the best interests of the people of Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council and to faithfully and impartially carry out the functions, powers, authorities and discretions vested in them under the Local Government Act or any other Act, to the best of their skill and judgement.

 

It is also a requirement that the Mayor and Councillors disclose conflicts of interest in relation to items listed for consideration on the Agenda or which are considered at this meeting in accordance with Council’s Code of Conduct and Code of Meeting Practice.

 

 


Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

22 September 2026

 

AGENDA

Order Of Business

 

1       Acknowledgement of Country. 5

2       Apologies, Leave of Absence and Audio-Visual Attendance Requests. 5

3       Disclosures of Interest 5

4       Confirmation of Minutes. 6

4.1         Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting of Council held on Tuesday 25 August 2026. 6

5       Mayoral Minutes. 19

5.1         Mayoral Minute - Councillor Engagements - 18 July 2026 - 14 September 2026. 19

6       Reports from Committees. 21

6.1         Minutes of the Demerger Transition Committee Meeting held on Tuesday 15 September 2026. 21

7       General Manager’s Report 27

7.1         General Manager Office. 28

7.1.1      Election of the Mayor 28

7.1.2      Election of the Deputy Mayor 35

7.2         Business. 38

7.2.1      Section 355 Committee Meeting Minutes. 38

7.2.2      Draft Business Continuity Management Policy. 54

7.3         Finance. 67

7.3.1      Finance Update - August 2026. 67

7.3.2      Restricted Cash Reconciliation - August 2026. 72

7.3.3      Investment Report - August 2026. 75

7.3.4      Lodgement of Financial Statements for year ended 30 June 2026. 81

7.3.5      2027 Carry Forward Capital Budget 174

7.4         Sustainable Development 178

7.4.1      DA2026/085 - proposed detached shed/garage - 23 Neil McInerney Street, Gundagai 178

7.4.2      Local Heritage Grant Funding Allocation. 226

7.4.3      NSW Statewide Community Participation Plan. 242

7.5         Engineering Cootamundra. 277

7.5.1      Cootamundra Engineering Report - August 2026. 277

7.6         Engineering Gundagai 281

7.6.1      Gundagai Engineering Report - August 2026. 281

7.7         Regional Services Gundagai 284

7.7.1      Gundagai Regional Services Report - August 2026. 284

7.8         Regional Services Cootamundra. 290

7.8.1      Cootamundra Regional Services Report - August 2026. 290

8       Motion of which Notice has been Given. 294

9       Questions with Notice. 294

10     Confidential Items. 295

10.1       Closed Council Report 295

10.2       Human Resources Report 295

10.3       Hardship Application - Assessment 10038313. 295

10.4       Hardship Application - Assessment 11019510. 296

10.5       Hardship Application - Assessment 10036010. 296

10.6       Hardship Application - Assessment 11015286. 296

10.7       Hardship Application - Assessment 10003481. 296

10.8       Tender – Management and Operation of Council’s Cootamundra Swimming Pool and Sports Stadium Facility. 296

10.9       Resumption of Open Council Meeting. 296

10.10     Announcement of Closed Council Resolutions. 296

 


1            Acknowledgement of Country

Council acknowledges the Wiradjuri people, the Traditional Custodians of the Land at which the meeting is held and pays its respects to Elders, both past and present, of the Wiradjuri Nation and extends that respect to other Aboriginal people who are present.

2            Apologies, Leave of Absence and Audio-Visual Attendance Requests

3            Disclosures of Interest

 


Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

22 September 2026

 

4            Confirmation of Minutes

4.1         Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting of Council held on Tuesday 25 August 2026

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 25 August 2026      

 

0BRecommendation

That the Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting of Council held on Tuesday 25 August 2026 be confirmed as a true and correct record of the meeting.

 

 


 

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Minutes

Ordinary Council Meeting

 

Alby Schultz meeting Centre, Cootamundra

 

6:02PM, Tuesday 25th August, 2026

 

Administration Centres:  1300 459 689

 

 


MINUTES OF Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council
Ordinary Council Meeting
HELD AT THE
Alby Schultz meeting Centre, Cootamundra
ON
Tuesday, 25 August 2026 AT 6:02PM

 

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

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

1            Acknowledgement of Country

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

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

2.1         Apologies

Nil

2.2         Leave of Absence

Nil

2.3         Audio-visual attendance requests

Nil

3            Disclosures of Interest

Disclosures of Interest

1BResolution  194/2026  

Moved:      Cr David Graham

Seconded:  Cr Danyal Syed

That Council note the non-pecuniary significant interest declared by Cr Collins pertaining to item 10.4.

Carried

 

4            Confirmation of Minutes

39B4.1         Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting of Council held on Tuesday 28 July 2026

2BResolution  195/2026  

Moved:      Cr Rosalind Wight

Seconded:  Cr Ethan Ryan

That the Minutes of the Ordinary Meeting of Council held on Tuesday 28 July 2026 be confirmed as a true and correct record of the meeting.

Carried

 

5            Mayoral Minutes

Nil

6            Reports from Committees

40B6.1         Minutes of the Demerger Transition Committee Meeting held on Tuesday 11 August 2026

3BResolution  196/2026  

Moved:      Cr Les Cooper

Seconded:  Cr Gil Kelly

1.       That the Minutes of the Demerger Transition Committee Meeting held on Tuesday 11 August 2026, attached to the report, be received and noted.

2.       In consideration of the Demerger Transition Committees recommendations detailed in the minutes, Council endorse the following:

That Council:

2.1.       Rename the GM Recruitment Committees to GM Recruitment ‘Panels’.

2.2.       Confirm the following preferences for the governance arrangements for the successor councils:

(a)  That the boundaries of the proposed Cootamundra and Gundagai Shire Councils be the same as existed immediately prior to the 2016 merger.

(b) That both Cootamundra and Gundagai Shire Councils be undivided - that is, neither council will have wards.

(c)  That Cootamundra Shire Council have seven councillors.

(d) That Gundagai Shire Council have five councillors.

(e)  That for both successor councils the Mayor be elected in accordance with the Local Government Act 1993 section 227(a), namely elected by the councillors from among their number.

2.3.       Request that the first election of councillors be conducted at the same time as the next local government general elections, currently scheduled for September 2028.

2.4.       Request that, for the period from commencement on 1 July 2027 until the first councillor election, the Proclamation specify:

(a)  That the governing bodies be:

i.    For Cootamundra Shire Council, those Councillors holding office at 30 June 2027, and not suspended from office, whose primary residence is within the proclaimed boundary for the Cootamundra Shire local government area.

ii.   For Gundagai Shire Council, those Councillors holding office at 30 June 2027, and not suspended from office, whose primary residence is within the proclaimed boundary for the Gundagai Shire local government area.

(b) That each governing body established under part (a) above is authorised to:

i.    Elect a Chief Administrator to chair meetings and perform the roles of the Mayor as described in the Local Government Act 1993 section 226.

ii.   Determine the remuneration of Chief Administrator and Administrators in the same manner as councils determine the remuneration for the Mayor and other councillors.

CARRIED

 

41B6.2         Minutes of the Cootamundra-Gundagai Local Transport Forum Meeting held on Thursday 13 August 2026

Resolution  197/2026  

Moved:      Cr David Graham

Seconded:  Cr Penny Nicholson

1.   That the Minutes of the Cootamundra-Gundagai Local Transport Forum Meeting held on Thursday 13 August 2026, attached to the report, be received and noted.

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

2.1. That the Minutes of the Cootamundra-Gundagai Local Transport Forum Meeting held on Thursday 21 May 2026 be confirmed as a true and correct record of the meeting.

2.2. That Council does not provide an accessible parking space on the eastern side of Parker Street, between Bourke Street and Wallendoon Street, Cootamundra, at the northern end of the block, as the existing accessible parking provisions in the vicinity are considered adequate to meet current demand and accessibility requirements.

2.3. That Council does not relocate the 15-tonne load limit signage on Hoskins Street to the northern side of the Ellwood Street intersection to avoid unnecessary restrictions on local traffic movements while continuing to protect the causeway from heavy vehicle impacts.

2.4. That the list of upcoming events be noted by the Forum.

2.5. That the Local Transport Forum scheduled for 12 November 2026 be rescheduled to 19 November 2026.

Carried

 

7            General Manager’s Report

7.1         General Manager Office

42B7.1.1      Christmas and New Year Closure

4BResolution  198/2026  

Moved:      Cr David Graham

Seconded:  Cr Logan Collins

The Christmas 2026 and New Year 2027 closures for Council facilities be noted.

Carried

 

7.2         Business

43B7.2.1      Draft Banner and Flag Booking Policy

5BResolution  199/2026  

Moved:      Cr Logan Collins

Seconded:  Cr Ethan Ryan

That the Draft Banner and Flag Booking Policy, attached to the report, be adopted.

Carried

 

44B7.2.2      Draft Access to Information Policy

6BResolution  200/2026  

Moved:      Cr David Graham

Seconded:  Cr Ethan Ryan

That the Draft Access to Information Policy attached to the report, be adopted.

Carried

 

45B7.2.3      Section 355 Committee Meeting Minutes

7BResolution  201/2026  

Moved:      Cr Danyal Syed

Seconded:  Cr Les Cooper

That the:

1.      Following s.355 Committee Meeting minutes, attached to the report, be received and noted:

(a)     The Minutes of the Arts Centre Cootamundra s.355 committee meetings dated, 21 May and 18 June 2026.

(b)     The Minutes of the Cootamundra Showground Users Group s.355 committee meeting dated, 17 June 2026.

(c)      The Annual General Meeting Minutes (inclusive of the Financial Statement 2025-2026 and the Financial Report for the Heritage Room 2025-2026) of the Stockinbingal Ellwood’s Hall s.355 Committee meeting dated, 27 July 2026

(d)     The Office bearers and membership of the Stockinbingal Ellwood’s Hall s.355 Committee as detailed in the report be endorsed.

2.      Draft Cootamundra Showground Users s.355 Committee Constitution attached to the report, be endorsed.

Carried

 

7.3         Finance

46B7.3.1      Restricted Cash Reconciliation - July 2026

8BResolution  202/2026  

Moved:      Cr Rosalind Wight

Seconded:  Cr Les Cooper

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

Carried

 

47B7.3.2      Finance Update - July 2026

9BResolution  203/2026  

Moved:      Cr Danyal Syed

Seconded:  Cr Ethan Ryan

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

Carried

 

48B7.3.3      Investment Report - July 2026

10BResolution  204/2026  

Moved:      Cr David Graham

Seconded:  Cr Penny Nicholson

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

Carried

 

7.4         Sustainable Development

Nil

7.5         Engineering Cootamundra

49B7.5.1      Cootamundra Engineering Report - July 2026

11BResolution  205/2026  

Moved:      Cr Gil Kelly

Seconded:  Cr Rosalind Wight

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

Carried

 

7.6         Engineering Gundagai

50B7.6.1      Gundagai Engineering Report - July 2026

12BResolution  206/2026  

Moved:      Cr Les Cooper

Seconded:  Cr Danyal Syed

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

Carried

 

7.7         Regional Services Gundagai

51B7.7.1      Gundagai Regional Services Report - July 2026

Resolution  207/2026  

Moved:      Cr David Graham

Seconded:  Cr Ethan Ryan

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

Carried

 

7.8         Regional Services Cootamundra

52B7.8.1      Cootamundra Regional Services Report - July 2026

13BResolution  208/2026  

Moved:      Cr Gil Kelly

Seconded:  Cr Rosalind Wight

The Cootamundra Regional Services Report for the month of July 2026 be noted.

Carried

 

8            Motion of which Notice has been Given

53B8.1         Notice of Motion - Cr Ryan - Bradman Museum Precinct - Asset Condition Assessment, Maintenance and Lifecycle Renewal Plan

14BResolution  209/2026  

Moved:      Cr Ethan Ryan

Seconded:  Cr Rosalind Wight

That Council:

1.      Acknowledges the cultural, historical, tourism and community significance of the Bradman Museum precinct, including its importance to Cootamundra’s identity and association with Sir Donald Bradman, and recognises the contribution of the volunteers who operate the museum through its Section 355 Committee.

2.      Arranges an immediate inspection of the precinct to identify any urgent Work Health and Safety, public safety or asset-failure risks, and undertakes any necessary interim make-safe works.

3.      Undertakes a comprehensive condition assessment of all Council-owned buildings, services and associated infrastructure within the precinct, in consultation with the Section 355 Committee and, where required, appropriately qualified building, structural, heritage or other technical specialists. The assessment is to include the condition of buildings and structural elements, roofs and drainage, external timberwork and weatherproofing, accessways and grounds, building services, accessibility, fire and emergency arrangements, and any risks arising from moisture, pests, deterioration or ground conditions.

(a)     Receives a report within three months, or as soon as practicable thereafter (by agreement with Councillors), that: identifies all defects, outstanding maintenance matters, safety risks and compliance issues, including previously reported concerns where records are available;

(b)     provides condition and risk ratings for significant asset components and identifies the underlying causes of deterioration;

(c)      identifies any risks to volunteers, visitors, museum operations, heritage fabric, artefacts, exhibits and records;

(d)     recommends required maintenance, repair, renewal, replacement and improvement works;

(e)     prioritises works as immediate, short, medium and longer-term actions, having regard to safety, asset condition, operational impact, heritage significance and the consequences of deferral;

(f)      provides indicative delivery timeframes, dependencies and high-level cost estimates, including appropriate contingencies; and

(g)     identifies potential funding sources through existing budgets, future Integrated Planning and Reporting processes, asset renewal allocations and relevant external grant programs.

4.      Includes within the report a planned asset-management approach for the precinct, including:

(a)     review and updating of Council’s asset register, including condition, criticality, remaining useful life, replacement value and maintenance history for significant components;

(b)     a planned preventative maintenance and inspection program, including appropriate inspection frequencies, intervention triggers, assigned responsibilities and record-keeping requirements;

(c)      lifecycle renewal planning over a minimum ten-year period; and

(d)     consideration of an appropriate annual maintenance allocation.

5.      Reviews the process for reporting and managing maintenance and safety concerns raised by the Section 355 Committee, with recommendations for acknowledgement, risk assessment, response timeframes, escalation, progress updates and confirmation of completed works.

6.      Ensures the Section 355 Committee is consulted throughout the assessment and planning process, is provided with the final report and adopted implementation program, and receives appropriate updates on progress.

7.        Receives quarterly progress reports on the delivery of all critical and high-priority actions until those works are completed, with ongoing maintenance and renewal requirements thereafter reported through Council’s asset-management and Integrated Planning and Reporting processes.

Carried

 

54B8.2         Notice of Motion - Cr Kelly - Unauthorised Disposal of Leachate at Cootamundra Sewage Treatment Plant

15BResolution  210/2026  

Moved:      Cr Gil Kelly

Seconded:  Cr Les Cooper

That Council requests the Interim General Manager to prepare a report for consideration by Council regarding the current implications of the August 2021 unauthorised receipt and disposal of leachate at the Cootamundra Sewage Treatment Plant, including the current status and management requirements for any residual material remaining in the treatment ponds. The report should address:

1.    the current status and condition of any residual sludge, sediment or other material remaining in the treatment ponds;

2.    the options available to Council for managing, treating, removing or disposing of the residual material, including any approvals or regulatory requirements that may apply;

3.    whether any matters arising from the residual material remain outstanding with the Environment Protection Authority or any other relevant regulatory authority; and

4.    any other matters staff consider relevant to appropriately and lawfully managing or resolving the current situation.

Carried

Cr McAlister (Mayor) and Cr Nicholson requested that their names be recorded against the motion.

 

55B8.3         Notice of Motion - Cr Wight - Disposal of Feral Animals

16BResolution  211/2026  

Moved:      Cr Rosalind Wight

Seconded:  Cr Danyal Syed

That Council notes:

1.     That the Cootamundra and Gundagai veterinary clinics are reimbursed for euthanising feral cats on Council’s behalf.

2.     That the veterinary clinics are also reimbursed for disposing of feral animals.

Carried

 

56B8.5         Notice of Motion - Cr Wight - Solar Sites in Cootamundra

Resolution  212/2026  

Moved:      Cr Rosalind Wight

Seconded:  Cr Ethan Ryan

That the Notice of Motion ‘Solar Sites in Cootamundra’ be withdrawn.

Carried

 

9            Questions with Notice

57B9.1         Question with Notice - Cr Wight - The Aerodrome

17BResolution  213/2026  

Moved:      Cr Rosalind Wight

Seconded:  Cr Danyal Syed

18BThat the responses to the Question with Notice on the Aerodrome, be noted.

Carried

 

58B9.2         Question with Notice - Cr Wight - Sir Bradman’s Cottage

19BResolution  214/2026  

Moved:      Cr Rosalind Wight

Seconded:  Cr Ethan Ryan

20BThat the responses to the Question with Notice on Sir Bradman’s Cottage be noted.

Carried

 

59B9.3         Question with Notice - Cr Wight - Solar Panel Disposal Policy

21BResolution  215/2026  

Moved:      Cr Rosalind Wight

Seconded:  Cr Les Cooper

22BThat the responses to the Question with Notice on a Solar Panel disposal Policy, be noted.

Carried

 

60B9.4         Question with Notice - Cr Wight - Dog on the Tuckerbox Development

23BResolution  216/2026  

Moved:      Cr Rosalind Wight

Seconded:  Cr David Graham

24BThat the responses to the Question with Notice on the Dog on the Tuckerbox development be noted.

Carried

 

10          Confidential Items

61B10.1       Closed Council Report

25BResolution  217/2026  

Moved:      Cr Gil Kelly

Seconded:  Cr Ethan Ryan

1.      Items 10.2, 10.3, 10.4 and 10.5 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.

2.      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, 10.4 and 10.5 be withheld from the press and public.

Council entered Closed Council at 7:23pm.

Carried

 

62B10.2       Human Resources Report

26BResolution  218/2026  

Moved:      Cr Ethan Ryan

Seconded:  Cr Rosalind Wight

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

Carried

 

63B10.3       Hardship Application - Assessment 11017340 - Requested Review

27BResolution  219/2026  

Moved:      Cr Penny Nicholson

Seconded:  Cr Les Cooper

That Council:

1.    Approve hardship assistance for the owner of the property identified as assessment number 11017340, subject to the ratepayer entering 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 September 2026 to 28 February 2026, provided the ratepayer complies with that payment arrangement for the duration of that period.

Carried

At 7:26 pm, Cr Logan Collins left the meeting.

64B10.4       Notice of Motion - Cr Wight - AMG Dongas

28BResolution  220/2026  

Moved:      Cr Rosalind Wight

Seconded:  Cr Ethan Ryan

That Council note the information provided in relation to Australian Meat Group (AMG).

Carried

At 7:36 pm, Cr Logan Collins returned to the meeting.

65B10.5       Question with Notice - Cr Wight - New Soil

29BResolution  221/2026  

Moved:      Cr Rosalind Wight

Seconded:  Cr Danyal Syed

30BThat the responses to the Question with Notice on New Soil, be noted.

Carried

Resumption of Open Council Meeting

31BResolution  222/2026  

Moved:      Cr David Graham

Seconded:  Cr Les Cooper

That the Open Council meeting resume at 7:39pm.

Carried

Announcement of Closed Council Resolutions

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

 

The Meeting closed at 7:41pm.

 

 

 

CHAIRPERSON

INTERIM GENERAL MANAGER

 

 

 


Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

22 September 2026

 

5            Mayoral Minutes

5.1         Mayoral Minute - Councillor Engagements - 18 July 2026 - 14 September 2026

DOCUMENT NUMBER

479556

AUTHORISING OFFICER

Abb McAlister, Mayor  

REPORTING OFFICER

Abb McAlister, Mayor

ATTACHMENTS

Nil

 

On behalf of Council, I intend to provide regular updates through my Mayoral Minutes to keep the community aware of Councillor engagements.

32BRecommendation

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

 

27 July 2026

Cr Cooper and the Interim General Manager attended the Stockinbingal Ellwood’s Hall AGM.

28 July 2026

Crs Wight (Deputy Mayor), Collins, Cooper, Graham, Kelly, Nicholson, Ryan and Syed attended an Ordinary Council Meeting in Gundagai.

7 August 2026

Cr McAlister (Mayor) attended an online Riverina Eastern Regional Organisation of Council (REROC) Executive Meeting. 

Cr Graham attended a quarterly Softwoods Working Group (SWG) meeting in Tumut.

11 August 2026

Crs McAlister (Mayor) (online), Wight (Deputy Mayor), Graham, Kelly, Nicholson, Ryan and Collins attended a Demerger Transition Committee Meeting in Cootamundra.

Crs McAlister (Mayor) (online), Wight (Deputy Mayor), Collins, Graham, Kelly, Nicholson, Ryan and Syed (online) attended a Council Workshop in Cootamundra.

18 August 2026

Cr Wight (Deputy Mayor) attended the Heritage Centre Museum Birthday Morning Tea.

20 August 2026

Crs McAlister (Mayor) (online), Wight (Deputy Mayor), Graham, Kelly, and Syed (online) attended an Ordinary Council Workshop in Cootamundra.

21 August 2026

Crs Wight (Deputy Mayor) and Ryan attended the Library Council of NSW Visit to the Cootamundra Library.

Cr McAlister (Mayor) attended a Riverina Eastern Regional Organisation of Council (REROC) Board Meeting in Wagga Wagga.

25 August 2026

Cr Collins attended the National Local Roads and Transport Congress in Cairns.

Crs McAlister (Mayor), Graham, Kelly and Syed attended an Inland Rail Update Workshop in Cootamundra.

Crs McAlister (Mayor), Wight (Deputy Mayor), Collins (online), Cooper, Graham, Kelly, Ryan and Syed attended an Ordinary Council Meeting in Cootamundra.

26 August 2026

Cr Collins attended the National Local Roads and Transport Congress in Cairns.

27 August 2026

Cr McAlister (Mayor) and the Interim General Manager attended a Demerge meeting with the Office of Local Government (OLG) in Sydney.

Cr McAlister (Mayor) and the Interim General Manager attended the Country Mayors Association (CMA) Dinner with the Prime Minister in Sydney.

28 August 2026

Cr McAlister (Mayor) and the Interim General Manager attended a Country Mayors Association (CMA) Meeting in Sydney.

1 September 2026

Crs McAlister (Mayor), Wight (Deputy Mayor), Collins, Graham, Kelly, Nicholson, Ryan and Syed attended a Council Demerge Workshop in Gundagai.

8 September 2026

Cr McAlister (Mayor) attended the Police Awards in Gundagai.

Crs McAlister (Mayor), Wight (Deputy Mayor), Collins (online), Graham, Kelly, Nicholson, and Ryan attended a Council Demerge Workshop in Gundagai.

Crs McAlister (Mayor), Wight (Deputy Mayor), Collins (online), Graham, Kelly, Nicholson, and Ryan attended GM Recruitment Panel meetings in Gundagai.

9 September 2026

Cr McAlister (Mayor) attended the Coolac Catch Up at the Coolac Memorial Hall.

10 September 2026

Crs McAlister (Mayor) and Wight (Deputy Mayor) attended a DOTT update meeting in Gundagai.

 

 

 


Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

22 September 2026

 

6            Reports from Committees

6.1         Minutes of the Demerger Transition Committee Meeting held on Tuesday 15 September 2026

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 15 September 2026      

 

33BRecommendation

1.   That the Minutes of the Demerger Transition Committee Meeting held on Tuesday 15 September 2026, attached to the report, be received and noted.

2.   In consideration of the Demerger Transition Committees recommendations detailed in the minutes, Council endorse the following:

2.1. That Council allocate its 2026-2027 financial year cash reserves opening balances based on the audited FY26 closing balances and distributed between the proposed successor Councils using the percentages from the Morrison Low Advisory Cash Analysis Allocation report, namely while noting that:

·    The Employee Leave Entitlement and Plant reserves will need to be recalculated as at 30 June 2027.

·    Any pre-paid Financial Assistance Grants will need to be allocated based on appropriate pro-rata basis for both the General and Roads Component.

 

 

 


 

../Letterhead/cgrc_lhead_plain_art.jpg

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Minutes

Demerger Transition Committee Meeting

 

Council Chambers, Gundagai

 

6:03pm, Tuesday 15th September, 2026

 

Administration Centres:  1300 459 689

 

 


MINUTES OF Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council
Demerger Transition Committee Meeting
HELD AT THE
Council Chambers, Gundagai
ON
Tuesday, 15 September 2026 AT 6:03pm

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

IN ATTENDANCE:     Cr Les Cooper, Peter Bascomb (Demerger Transition Manager), Roger Bailey (Interim General Manager)

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

Nil

3            Disclosures of Interest

Nil

4            Confirmation of Minutes

66B4.1         Minutes of the Demerger Transition Committee Meeting held on Tuesday 11 August 2026

34BCommittee Resolution  

Moved:      Cr Penny Nicholson

Seconded:  Cr Rosalind Wight

That the Minutes of the Demerger Transition Committee Meeting held on Tuesday 11 August 2026 be confirmed as a true and correct record of the meeting.

Carried

 

5            Reports

5.1         General Manager Office

67B5.1.1      Report from GM-Designate Recruitment Panels

35BCommittee Resolution  

Moved:      Cr David Graham

Seconded:  Cr Gil Kelly

That the Committee note the report and endorse the appointment of LG Services Group Pty Ltd (ABN 606 6178 8389) by both Recruitment Panels.

Carried

 

68B5.1.2      Allocation of Council Cash Reserves between the Successor Councils

Committee Resolution  

Moved:      Cr Ethan Ryan

Seconded:  Cr David Graham

The Committee recommends that Council allocate its 2026-2027 financial year cash reserves opening balances based on the audited FY26 closing balances and distributed between the proposed successor Councils using the percentages from the Morrison Low Advisory Cash Analysis Allocation report, namely while noting that :

·       The Employee Leave Entitlement and Plant reserves will need to be recalculated as at 30 June 2027.

·       Any pre-paid Financial Assistance Grants will need to be allocated based on appropriate pro-rata basis for both the General and Roads Component.

Cootamundra

Gundagai

%

%

%

$

Developer Contributions - General

48.0%

$702,826

52.0%

$762,826

Developer Contributions - Sewer

100.0%

$421,276

0.0%

$0

Unexpended Grants

49.3%

$892,240

50.7%

$918,999

Water Supply

14.5%

$1,220,648

85.5%

$7,206,966

Sewerage Service

98.5%

$4,961,255

1.5%

$74,381

Domestic Waste

77.0%

$2,104,848

23.0%

$629,513

Stormwater Infrastructure Renewal

93.7%

$453,106

6.3%

$30,354

 

$10,756,200

 

$9,623,038

 

 

 

 

Employees Leave Entitlement

51.2%

$861,371

48.8%

$821,332

Plant Replacement

52.8%

$1,221,996

47.2%

$1,090,721

Waste Management

70.0%

$350,000

30.0%

$150,000

Bradman's Birthplace

100.0%

$76,337

0.0%

$0

Cootamundra Heritage Centre

100.0%

$25,882

0.0%

$0

Cemetery

50.0%

$12,886

50.0%

$12,886

Development - Land & Buildings

69.1%

$1,220,510

30.9%

$545,561

Cootamundra Caravan Park

100.0%

$215,737

0.0%

$0

Aerodrome Bitumen Resurfacing

100.0%

$160,788

0.0%

$0

Quarries & Pit Restoration

92.9%

$230,672

7.1%

$17,653

Southern Phone

100.0%

$505,598

0.0%

$0

Dog on the Tuckerbox Land

0.0%

$0

100.0%

$367,500

 

$4,881,777

 

$3,005,653

 

Carried

 

The Meeting closed at 6:28pm.

 

 

 

CHAIRPERSON

INTERIM GENERAL MANAGER

 

 

 


Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

22 September 2026

 

7            General Manager’s Report


7.1        General Manager Office

7.1.1      Election of the Mayor

DOCUMENT NUMBER

478575

REPORTING OFFICER

Roger Bailey, Interim General Manager

AUTHORISING OFFICER

Roger Bailey, Interim General Manager  

RELEVANCE TO COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN

4. Collaborative and progressive leadership

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

 

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

There are no Financial implications associated with this report.

LEGISLATIVE IMPLICATIONS

In accordance with s.290 of the Local Government Act 1993 and Schedule 7 of the Local Government (General) Regulation 2021.

POLICY IMPLICATIONS

There are no Policy implications associated with this report.

ATTACHMENTS

1.      Mayor Nomination form for Councillors ⇩    

 

36BRecommendation

That Council:

1.   Notes the report on the nominations for and election for the position of Mayor for the period to September 2028 or the demerger of the Council, whichever occurs first;

2.   Determine the method of voting for the position of Mayor; and

3.   Proceed to hold the election for the position of Mayor for the term.

 

Introduction

Council is required to elect a Mayor. This report provides the procedure for the election of Mayor for the period September 2026 to the next Council election in September 2028 or the demerger of the Council, whichever occurs first.

The returning officer is to be the General Manager.

Discussion

Where the Mayor is elected by the councillors the Council is required to elect a Mayor to preside over the Council. The final term for the Mayoral term will be for the period from September 2026 to September 2028 or the demerger of the Council, whichever occurs first.

The Local Government Act requires the election of the mayor to be conducted:

290 When is an election of a mayor by the councillors to be held?

(1) The election of the mayor by the councillors is to be held--

(a) if it is the first election after an ordinary election of councillors--within 3 weeks after the ordinary election, or

(b) if it is not that first election or an election to fill a casual vacancy--during the month of September, or

(c) if it is the first election after the constitution of an area--within 14 days after the appointment of a provisional council or the first election of the council if a provisional council is not appointed, or

(d) if the relevant council is a non-functioning council, or a council of which all civic offices have been declared vacant, and the election is the first to be held after the appointment or election of the councillors--within 14 days after the appointment or election of the councillors.

(2) If the councillors fail to elect a mayor as required by this section, the Governor may appoint one of the councillors as the mayor.

(3) For the purposes of this section, an election of councillors does not conclude until the declaration of election of all the councillors of the council concerned.

The election is to be conducted by the General Manager or in their absence, a Council employee designated by the General Manager, or in the event that all of these people are absent, by the person who called the meeting.

The role of the Mayor is outlined by section 226:

(a) to be the leader of the council and a leader in the local community,

(b) to advance community cohesion and promote civic awareness,

(c) to be the principal member and spokesperson of the governing body, including representing the views of the council as to its local priorities,

(d) to exercise, in cases of necessity, the policy-making functions of the governing body of the council between meetings of the council,

(e) to preside at meetings of the council,

(f) to ensure that meetings of the council are conducted efficiently, effectively and in accordance with this Act,

(g) to ensure the timely development and adoption of the strategic plans, programs and policies of the council,

(h) to promote the effective and consistent implementation of the strategic plans, programs and policies of the council,

(i) to promote partnerships between the council and key stakeholders,

(j) to advise, consult with and provide strategic direction to the general manager in relation to the implementation of the strategic plans and policies of the council,

(k) in conjunction with the general manager, to ensure adequate opportunities and mechanisms for engagement between the council and the local community,

(l) to carry out the civic and ceremonial functions of the mayoral office,

(m) to represent the council on regional organisations and at inter-governmental forums at regional, State and Commonwealth level,

(n) in consultation with the councillors, to lead performance appraisals of the general manager,

(o) to exercise any other functions of the council that the council determines.

The Mayoral Fee presently paid by Council is $42,030 pa, plus $19,590 pa Councillor Fee totalling $61,620.

Nominations

Nominations are now invited for the Office of Mayor for the 2026 to 2028 term (until September 2028). The elections of Mayor Council must be held in accordance with Schedule 7 of the Local Government (General) Regulation 2021 and Council’s Code of Meeting Practice.

In accordance with section 227(a) of the Local Government Act 1993 the Mayor of Council is elected by the councillors from among their number.

Schedule 7 of the Local Government (General) Regulation 2021 sets out the procedures for the election of Mayor:

1. Returning Officer

The General Manager (or a person nominated by the General Manager) is the Returning Officer.

2. Nomination

(1) A councillor may be nominated without notice for election as mayor or deputy mayor.

(2) The nomination is to be made in writing by 2 or more councillors (one of whom may be the nominee). The nomination is not valid unless the nominee has indicated consent to the nomination in writing.

(3) The nomination is to be delivered or sent to the returning officer.

(4) The returning officer is to announce the names of the nominees at the council meeting at which the election is to be held.

 

3. Election

(1) If only one councillor is nominated, that councillor is elected.

(2) If more than one councillor is nominated, the council is to resolve whether the election is to proceed by preferential ballot, by ordinary ballot or by open voting.

(3) The election is to be held at the council meeting at which the council resolves on the method of voting.

(4) In this clause: “ballot” has its normal meaning of secret ballot “open voting” means voting by a show of hands or similar means.

4. Application of Part This Part applies if the election proceeds by ordinary ballot or by open voting.

5. Marking of Ballot-Papers

(1) If the election proceeds by ordinary ballot, the Returning Officer is to decide the manner in which votes are to be marked on the ballot-papers.

(2) The formality of a ballot-paper under this Part must be determined in accordance with clauses 345(1)(b)-(c) and 345(6) of the Local Government (General) Regulation 2021 as if it were a ballot-paper referred to in that clause.

(3) An informal ballot-paper must be rejected at the count.

6. Count – 2 Candidates

(1) If there are only 2 candidates, the candidate with the higher number of votes is elected.

(2) If there are only 2 candidates and they are tied, the one elected is to be chosen by lot.

7. Count – 3 or more Candidates

(1) If there are 3 or more candidates, the one with the lowest number of votes is to be excluded.

(2) If 3 or more candidates then remain, a further vote is to be taken of those candidates and the one with the lowest number of votes from that further vote is to be excluded.

(3) If, after that, 3 or more candidates still remain, the procedure set out in subclause (2) is to be repeated until only 2 candidates remain.

(4) A further vote is to be taken of the 2 remaining candidates.

(5) Clause 6 of this Schedule then applies to the determination of the election as if the 2 remaining candidates had been the only candidates.

(6) If at any stage during a count under subclause (1) or (2), 2 or more candidates are tied on the lowest number of votes, the one excluded is to be chosen by lot.

8. Application of Part This Part applies if the election proceeds by preferential ballot.

9. Ballot-Papers and Voting

(1) The ballot-papers are to contain the names of all the candidates. The councillors are to mark their votes by placing the numbers “1”, “2” and so on against the various names so as to indicate the order of their preference for all the candidates.

(2) The formality of a ballot-paper under this Part is to be determined in accordance with clauses 345(1)(b)-(c) and 345(5) of the Local Government (General) Regulation 2021 as if it were a ballot-paper referred to in that clause. (3) An informal ballot-paper must be rejected at the count.

10. Count

(1) If a candidate has an absolute majority of first preference votes, that candidate is elected.

(2) If not, the candidate with the lowest number of first preference votes is excluded and the votes on the unexhausted ballot papers counted to him or her are transferred to the candidates with second preferences on those ballot-papers.

(3) A candidate who then has an absolute majority of votes is elected, but, if no candidate then has an absolute majority of votes, the process of excluding the candidate who has the lowest number of votes and counting each of his or her unexhausted ballot-papers to the candidates remaining in the election next in order of the voters’ preference is repeated until one candidate has received an absolute majority of votes. The latter is elected.

(4) In this clause “absolute majority”, in relation to votes, means a number that is more that one-half of the number of unexhausted ballot-papers.

11. Tied Candidates

(1) If, on any count of votes, there are 2 candidates in, or remaining in, the election and the numbers of votes cast for the 2 candidates are equal – the candidate whose name is first chosen by lot is taken to have received an absolute majority of votes and is therefore taken to be elected.

(2) If, on any count of votes, there are 3 or more candidates in, or remaining in, the election and the numbers of votes cast for 2 or more candidates are equal and those candidates are the ones with the lowest number of votes on the count of the votes – the candidate whose name is first chosen by lot is taken to have the lowest number of votes and is therefore excluded.

12. Choosing by Lot To choose a candidate by lot, the names of the candidates who have equal numbers of votes are written on similar slips of paper by the returning officer, the slips are folded by the returning officer so as to prevent the names being seen, the slips are mixed and one is drawn at random by the returning officer and the candidate whose name is on the drawn slip is chosen.

13. Result The result of the election (including the name of the candidate elected as mayor or deputy mayor is:

(a) to be declared to the councillors at the council meeting at which the election is held by the returning officer, and

(b) to be delivered or sent to the Director-General and to the Secretary of the Local Government and Shires Association of NSW.

Notes:

(i)         Nomination forms for the position of Mayor and Deputy Mayor are enclosed with this meeting agenda. These may be completed and returned to the Returning Officer at any time before the Council Meeting scheduled for 22 September 2026 OR at this Meeting up to the time that the Returning Officer announces that nominations are closed;

(ii)        Elections at Council have varied in the past, having been conducted either by ordinary ballot or open voting.

Nomination forms for the position of Mayor are coloured Blue and are enclosed with the business paper and will also be available at the Ordinary Meeting of Council.

The Returning Officer will call for the final lodgement of nominations at the meeting. After the final call for nominations the Returning Officer will announce the names of the nominee(s). If necessary, an election will then be conducted as per the decision made on the previous report.

Financial

No financial implications arise as a result of this report.

OLG 23a Guideline consideration

Does not conflict with guidelines.

 

 


Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

22 September 2026

 

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Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

22 September 2026

 

7.1.2      Election of the Deputy Mayor

DOCUMENT NUMBER

478577

REPORTING OFFICER

Roger Bailey, Interim General Manager

AUTHORISING OFFICER

Roger Bailey, Interim General Manager  

RELEVANCE TO COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN

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

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

 

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

There are no financial implications associated with this report.

LEGISLATIVE IMPLICATIONS

The election of a Deputy Mayor may be conducted pursuant to Section 231 of the Local Government Act, 1993. Such election is conducted in accordance with Schedule 7 of the Local Government (General) Regulation, 2021.

POLICY IMPLICATIONS

There are no Policy implications associated with this report.

ATTACHMENTS

1.      Deputy Mayor Nomination form for Councillors ⇩    

 

Recommendation

That Council:

1.      Note the report on the appointment of and procedure for the election of a Deputy Mayor;

2.      Resolve that a Deputy Mayor is to be elected for the Mayoral term;

3.      Determine what fees, if any, are paid to the Deputy Mayor; and

4.      Hold an election for the position of Deputy Mayor on the same basis as for the Mayoral position.

 

Introduction

Council may elect a Deputy Mayor. This report provides the procedure for the election of the Deputy Mayor, if so decided.

Discussion

Councillors may elect one from their number to be the Deputy Mayor. The person may be elected for the Mayoral term or a shorter one (Local Government Act 1993 s 231).

(1) The councillors may elect a person from among their number to be the deputy mayor.

(2) The person may be elected for the mayoral term or a shorter term.

(3) The deputy mayor may exercise any function of the mayor at the request of the mayor or if the mayor is prevented by illness, absence or otherwise from exercising the function or if there is a casual vacancy in the office of mayor.

(4) The councillors may elect a person from among their number to act as deputy mayor if the deputy mayor is prevented by illness, absence or otherwise from exercising a function under this section, or if no deputy mayor has been elected.

 

The Deputy Mayor’s role is to exercise any function and delegation of the Mayor:

i)     At the request of the Mayor; or

ii)    If the Mayor is prevented by illness, absence or otherwise from exercising the function; or

iii)   If there is a casual vacancy in the Office of Mayor.

Council in the past has elected a Deputy Mayor for the same term as the Mayor.

The procedure for the election of Deputy Mayor is the same as the procedure for the election of Mayor.

Additional fees, if any, for holding the position of Deputy Mayor are to be deducted from payments to the Mayor. No fees are presently paid by Council for the holder of the position of Deputy Mayor.

Nomination forms for the position of Deputy Mayor are coloured Yellow and are enclosed with the business paper and will also be available at the Ordinary Meeting of Council.

The Returning Officer will call for final lodgement of nominations at this meeting. After the final call for nominations, the Returning Officer will announce the names of nominee(s). If necessary an election will then be conducted.

Financial

There are no financial implications arising from this report. Any fee payable to the Deputy Mayor while acting in the office of the Mayor is deducted from the Mayor's annual fee in accordance with section 249(5) of the Local Government Act 1993 and does not increase Council's overall remuneration expenditure.

249(5) A council may pay the deputy mayor (if there is one) a fee determined by the council for such time as the deputy mayor acts in the office of the mayor. The amount of the fee so paid must be deducted from the mayor's annual fee.

OLG 23a Guideline consideration

Does not conflict with guidelines.

 

 


Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

22 September 2026

 

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7.2        Business

7.2.1      Section 355 Committee Meeting Minutes

DOCUMENT NUMBER

480289

REPORTING OFFICER

Anne Chamberlain, Governance Officer

AUTHORISING OFFICER

Linda Wiles, Manager Business  

RELEVANCE TO COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN

4. Collaborative and progressive leadership

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

 

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

There are no Financial implications associated with this report.

LEGISLATIVE IMPLICATIONS

There are no Legislative implications associated with this report.

POLICY IMPLICATIONS

To Comply with the s.355 Committee Management Manual.

ATTACHMENTS

1.      Muttama Creek Regeneration s.355 Committee Meeting Minutes - 12 August 2026 ⇩

2.      Bradman Birthplace s.355 Committee Annual General Meeting  - 19 August 2026 ⇩

3.      Stockinbingal Ellwoods Hall s.355 Committee Meeting Minutes - 24 August 2026 ⇩    

 

Recommendation

That the following s.355 Committee Meeting minutes, attached to the report, be received and noted:

1.   The Ordinary Minutes of The Muttama Creek Regeneration s.355 Committee dated 12 August 2026.

2.   The Annual General Meeting Minutes (inclusive of the Chairmans Report and Financial Statement 2025-2026) of the Bradman Birthplace s.355 Committee dated 19 August 2026.

3.   The Office bearers and membership of the Bradman Birthplace s.355 Committee as detailed in the report be endorsed.

4.   The Ordinary Minutes of the Stockinbingal Ellwood’s Hall s.355 Committee dated 24 August 2026.

 

Discussion

The Meeting Minutes of the following s.355 Committees, attached to the report are submitted for the information of Council and the community.

·    The Muttama Creek Regeneration s.355 Committee

·    Bradman Birthplace s.355 Committee

·    The Stockinbingal Ellwood’s Hall s.355 Committee

Bradman Birthplace – Office bearers and members

Chairman:                    Eric Thorburn               Deputy Chairman:       To be filled

Secretary/Treasurer:   Charles Donoghue       

Committee: Ray Hyland, Jenny Hockey, Ray McDonnell, Graeme Worboys

Financial

There are no financial implications associated with this report.

OLG 23a Guideline consideration

The report purpose does not conflict with guidelines.

 

 


Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

22 September 2026

 

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Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

22 September 2026

 

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Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

22 September 2026

 

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7.2.2      Draft Business Continuity Management Policy

DOCUMENT NUMBER

481651

REPORTING OFFICER

Linda Wiles, Manager Business

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

Australian Standard AS/NZS ISO 31000:2009 – Risk Management principles and guidelines. SA/SNZ HB 436:2013 – Risk Management Guidelines – Companion to AS/NZA ISO 31000:2009. ISO/IEC 22301:2012 societal security – Business Continuity Management Systems – Requirements.

POLICY IMPLICATIONS

There are no Policy implications associated with this report.

ATTACHMENTS

1.      Draft Business Continuity Management Policy ⇩    

 

Recommendation

That the Business Continuity Management Policy attached to the report be adopted.

 

Introduction

The purpose of this report is to seek Council's endorsement and adoption of the Business Continuity Management Policy, which establishes Council's commitment to maintaining critical services during and following disruptive incidents and forms the foundation of Council's Business Continuity Management System (BCMS).

Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council delivers a wide range of essential services to the community. The disruption of these services through events such as natural disasters, utility failures, information technology outages, workforce shortages, pandemics, cyber incidents or other emergencies may significantly impact Council's operations and the community it serves.

Business Continuity Management is a proactive approach that identifies critical services, assesses risks to service delivery, establishes strategies for responding to disruptive incidents and supports the timely restoration of services. The proposed policy provides the overarching framework for Council's Business Continuity Management System and supports organisational resilience.

The policy has been developed to formalise Council's approach to business continuity planning and to establish clear governance arrangements, responsibilities, testing requirements and continual improvement processes.

 

Discussion

The Business Continuity Management Policy establishes Council's commitment to:

·      Identifying critical services and functions.

·      Developing and maintaining Business Continuity Plans and supporting sub-plans.

·      Establishing a Continuity Management Team to coordinate response and recovery activities.

·      Protecting employees, contractors, volunteers and the community during disruptive incidents.

·      Minimising service interruptions and recovery timeframes.

·      Ensuring ongoing training, awareness and testing of business continuity arrangements.

·      Supporting continuous improvement through regular review and reporting processes.

The policy applies to Councillors, employees, contractors, service providers and volunteers engaged by Council. It also outlines governance responsibilities for the Audit, Risk and Improvement Committee (ARIC), Executive Leadership Team, managers and staff in maintaining and supporting Council's business continuity capability.

The policy forms part of a broader Business Continuity Management System, which includes business continuity procedures, critical function sub-plans, contact lists and disaster recovery arrangements. Adoption of the policy will provide a clear governance framework for the ongoing development and maintenance of these supporting documents.

The Business Continuity Management Policy provides Council with a formal framework for ensuring that critical services can continue, or be restored within acceptable timeframes, following a disruptive incident. Adoption of the policy will strengthen organisational resilience, support effective risk management and establish governance arrangements for the ongoing management and improvement of Council's Business Continuity Management System.

Financial

There are no financial implications arising from the adoption of this policy.

OLG 23a Guideline consideration

Does not conflict with 23a guidelines.

 

 

 


Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

22 September 2026

 

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7.3        Finance

7.3.1      Finance Update - August 2026

DOCUMENT NUMBER

481340

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 August 2026, be noted.

 

Report

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

Operations

Income

The operational income is at 52% 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

$175,166

$481,254

36%

J

 

Business Department

$45,394

$279,322

16%

J

 

Engineering Cootamundra

$580,883

$4,612,631

13%

J

Budget Includes RMCC Income

Engineering Gundagai

$89,689

$768,805

12%

J

 

Executive Department

$175,597

$40,000

439%

J

Includes income from Fresh Start of $145.5K

Finance Department

$73,602

$31,500

234%

J

Includes legal costs recovered from debt collection of $65k

Grants

$6,607,390

$11,005,305

60%

J

Includes F.A.G. prepayment of 80% and 1st instalment.

Rates Cootamundra

$7,157,939

$7,151,598

100%

J

 

Rates Gundagai

$4,946,810

$4,942,428

100%

J

 

Services Cootamundra

$3,119,221

$3,903,177

80%

J

 

Services Gundagai

$1,102,938

$1,956,505

56%

J

 

Sewer Cootamundra

$800,292

$2,504,127

32%

J

Water and Sewer Annual Charges to be sent this month

Sewer Gundagai

$214,288

$671,316

32%

J

“

Water Cootamundra

$970,134

$4,336,291

22%

J

“

Water Gundagai

$566,946

$2,130,517

27%

J

“

Plant Hire - Cootamundra

$293,278

$2,600,000

11%

J

 

Plant Hire - Gundagai

$219,039

$1,600,000

14%

J

 

Interest on Investments and OD General Rates

$12,013

$1,301,319

1%

K

Interest earnt on TD’s for 2026 accrued to previous year

Overheads Recovery

$653,514

$3,609,000

18%

J

 

Total

$27,804,132

$53,925,094

52%

 

 

Expenditure

Operational Expenditure is at 14% when comparing actual to budget.

Department

Expense Actual

Expense Budget

% Spent

Result

Comment

Building Department

$228,573

$2,055,162

11%

J

Business Department

$634,540

$3,749,569

17%

J

 

Engineering Cootamundra

$952,056

$10,383,783

9%

K

 

Engineering Gundagai

$771,943

$5,904,490

13%

J

 

Executive Department

$455,703

$2,431,191

19%

J

 

Finance Department

$446,700

$2,510,940

18%

J

 

Services Cootamundra

$1,039,983

$6,153,267

17%

J

 

Services Gundagai

$398,747

$4,044,351

10%

J

 

Sewer Cootamundra

$141,136

$1,136,132

12%

J

 

Sewer Gundagai

$96,953

$1,009,034

10%

J

 

Water Cootamundra

$495,105

$3,460,840

14%

J

 

Water Gundagai

$106,163

$1,355,908

8%

K

Significant expenditure is likely to be incurred as part of the Hydrant inspection and repair program currently underway across CGRC.

Plant Expenses - Cootamundra

$152,823

$1,508,000

10%

J

 

Plant Expenses - Gundagai

$106,903

$1,092,000

10%

J

 

Depreciation

$2,291,932

$14,319,289

16%

J

 

Overhead Expenses

$680,130

$3,902,707

17%

J

 

Total

$8,999,390

$65,016,663

14%

 

Capital

Income

Capital income is at 21% of budget when comparing actual to budget.

Asset Category

Total YTD.

Budget

% Rec’d

Result

Comments

Plant & Equipment - Cootamundra

$72,706

$272,000

27%

J

Plant & Equipment - Gundagai

$14,524

$272,000

5%

J

Section 7.12 Developer Contributions

$60,851

$160,000

38%

J

 

TOTAL

$148,081

$704,000

21%

 

Expenditure

Capital expenditure is at 44% of budget when comparing actual to budget.

Asset Category

 

 

Actual Expenses

Actual Expenses + Committed Costs

Budget

% Spent

Result

Comments

Cootamundra Land

$0

$0

$0

0%

J

Aerodrome Land development on hold due to demerger and planned cost saving opportunities.

Cootamundra Plant

$0

$20,018

$1,000,000

2%

J

Cootamundra Roads

$152,746

$424,623

$2,115,614

20%

J

Olney St drainage project near completed. FMP/0086 – Wallendbeen and Muttama Village Flood study costs committed.

Cootamundra Building

$795

$5,566

$65,000

9%

J

 

Cootamundra Recreation

$0

$46

$0

0%

J

 

Cootamundra Waste

$0

$0

$25,000

0%

J

 

Cootamundra Bridges

$0

$7,350

$300,000

2%

J

 

Cootamundra Water

$400

$550,254

$520,000

106%

J

Carry forward of unspent 2026 Budget included in separate report.

FY25-26 Water replacement costs committed.

Cootamundra Sewer

$11,995

$732,217

$1,110,000

66%

J

Carry forward of unspent 2026 included in separate report

FY25-26 Sewer replacement costs committed

Cootamundra Demerger

$0

$0

$0

0%

J

 

Cootamundra Property

$0

$0

$0

0%

J

 

 

$1,700

$71,128

$0

0%

J

 

Gundagai Bridges

$0

$273

$20,000

1%

J

 

Gundagai Building

$7,062

$39,534

$195,000

20%

J

 

Gundagai Demerger

$0

$0

$0

0%

J

Gundagai Plant

$0

$138,923

$1,000,000

14%

J

Gundagai Property

$0

$0

$0

0%

J

Gundagai Recreation

$0

$0

$0

0%

J

 

Gundagai Roads

$15,223

$19,371

$2,165,490

1%

J

 

Gundagai Sewer

$6,323

$590,317

$645,000

92%

J

Carry forward of unspent 2026 included in separate report.

Gundagai Waste

$0

$0

$0

0%

J

Council Resolution 147/2026 to proceed and complete works, Procurement processes commenced. Carry forward of unspent 2026 Budget included in separate report.

Gundagai Water

$43,954

$3,012,012

$3,503,500

86%

J

Carry forward of unspent 2026 Budget included in separate report

IT

$0

$0

$50,000

0%

J

 

Total

$240,197

$5,611,631

$12,714,604

44%

 

 

 

Financial

There are no financial implications associated with this report.

Please note total costs generally include committed expenditure for budgeting purposes. Capital Expenditure now shows both actual expenses and total committed costs due to the material nature of commitments compared to actual expenditure for 2027.

OLG 23a Guideline consideration

Report purpose does not conflict with guidelines.

Demerger Costs Report August 2026

 


7.3.2      Restricted Cash Reconciliation - August 2026

DOCUMENT NUMBER

481457

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

CGRC is compliant with OLG legislation.

LEGISLATIVE IMPLICATIONS

There are no Legislative implications associated with this report.

POLICY IMPLICATIONS

There are no Policy implications associated with this report.

ATTACHMENTS

Nil

 

Recommendation

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

 

Report

The restricted cash figures have been reconciled to 31 August 2026 as shown in the below table.

 

 

Restricted Cash Reconciliation

Cash at Bank on 31 August 2026

           37,534,642

Less:

 

Externally Restricted Reserves

          (19,952,406)

Add:

 

Grant Debtors and Contract Asset Outstanding

798,718

Unrestricted Cash

18,380,955

Less:

Internally Restricted Allocations

            (8,228,550)

Net Balance

            10,152,405

Financial

CGRC is compliant with OLG legislation having Unrestrictive Cash of $18.3M on 31 Aug 2026. In addition, council currently has enough funds to also cover internally allocated restrictions, leaving a projected net balance of $10.1m.

Please note the Restricted Cash Reconciliation does not currently include any proposed adjustment to balances identified from the Reserve Balance Workshops conducted as part of the ongoing demerger process.

OLG 23a Guideline consideration

Report purpose does not conflict with guidelines.

 

 


Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

22 September 2026

 

7.3.3      Investment Report - August 2026

DOCUMENT NUMBER

481342

REPORTING OFFICER

Damian Smith, Accountant

AUTHORISING OFFICER

Roger Bailey, Interim General Manager  

RELEVANCE TO COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN

4. Collaborative and progressive leadership

4.1 A clear strategic direction that is delivered upon

 

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

Council’s cash and investment portfolio Increased $3,315,474.64 from $34,219,167.56 as at 31st July 2026 to $37,534,642.20 as at 31st August 2026

LEGISLATIVE IMPLICATIONS

Council investments comply fully with Section 625 of the Local Government Act 1993, Clause 212 of the Local Government (General) Regulation 2021.

POLICY IMPLICATIONS

Investments comply fully with the Council’s Investment Policy.

ATTACHMENTS

Nil

 

Recommendation

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

 

Introduction

A report on Council’s Investments is required to be presented for Council’s consideration in accordance with Clause 212 of the Local Government (General) Regulation 2021.

Financial

Council’s cash and investment portfolio Increased $3,315,474.64 from $34,219,167.56 as at 31st July 2026 to $37,534,642.20 as at 31st August 2026.

OLG 23a Guideline consideration

Report purpose does not conflict with guidelines.

 


Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

22 September 2026

 

Cash and Investment Portfolio

 

 

 

 

 


Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

22 September 2026

 

Performance

Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council’s investment portfolio outperformed the relevant BBSW Index benchmark by 4.76%. The average weighted yield for August was 4.83%, over an average weighted term of 65.4 days, with a benchmark of 4.61%.

Please note that Council have tried to invest in longer term investments, but the rate is far below the required benchmark and it is not a financially viable alternative.

 

Total Cost

$37,534,642

Monthly Interest Received

$145,184

Weighted Average Term

65.4 Days

Total Value

$37,534,642

Yearly Interest Received

$286,153

Weighted Average Yield

4.83%

 

Credit Quality Compliance

Council’s investment portfolio was compliant with policy in terms of S&P long term rating credit quality limits, as displayed below.

 

 

 

Counter Party Compliance

As at the end of September, Council was compliant with policy. It is worth noting that capacity limits are affected by changes in the on-call account balance compared to the total portfolio balance. 

Term to Maturity

Council’s investment portfolio maturities shown graphically below were also compliant with policy requirements. All of the investments are short term to deal with liquidity and to be prepared for the demerger split.


Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

22 September 2026

 

 

Total Cash Balance

The below graph shows the month end total cash balance, highlighting the normal fluctuations that occur throughout the year. This visual helps demonstrate Council’s liquidity position over time and supports monitoring of financial capacity and cash flow trends.

 


Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

22 September 2026

 

Declaration

I hereby certify that investments listed in the report have been made in accordance with Section 625 of the Local Government Act 1993, Clause 212 of the Local Government (General) Regulation 2021 and Council’s Investment Policy.

        

Damian Smith

Responsible Accounting Officer

 

 


7.3.4      Lodgement of Financial Statements for year ended 30 June 2026

DOCUMENT NUMBER

481633

REPORTING OFFICER

Damian Smith, Acting Manager Finance

AUTHORISING OFFICER

Roger Bailey, Interim General Manager  

RELEVANCE TO COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN

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

4.1 Decision-making is based on collaborative, transparent and accountable leadership

 

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

There are no Financial implications associated with this report.

LEGISLATIVE IMPLICATIONS

To comply with section 413 of the Local Government Act, 1993.

POLICY IMPLICATIONS

Accounting Policies are detailed within the Financial Statements.

ATTACHMENTS

1.      Draft Financial Statements 2026 ⇩    

 

Recommendation

That:

1.    The Mayor, Deputy Mayor, General Manager and Responsible Accounting Officer be delegated to sign the Statements by Council and Management for the 2026 General Purpose Financial Statements and 2026 Special Purpose Financial Statements for Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council.

2.    The 2026 Financial Statements be referred for audit.

3.    The General Manager be authorised to issue the 2026 Financial Statements upon receipt of the auditor’s report, subject to there being no material changes as result of the audit.

 

Introduction

Section 413(2)(c) requires a resolution of Council that the annual financial statements have been prepared in accordance with;

·    The Local Government Act, 1993 (as amended) and the Regulations made there under.

·    The Australian Accounting Standard and professional pronouncements.

·    The Local Government Code of Accounting Practice and Financial Reporting.

Further, that to the best of its knowledge and belief, the financial statements present fairly the operating result and financial position and accord with Council’s accounting and other records.

Section 418 of the Act requires that as soon as practicable after Council receives a copy of the auditor’s report, it must fix a date for a meeting to present the audited financial statements to the public, and it must make the financial statements available for public inspection for at least seven days prior to the meeting date.

Discussion

The draft 2026 Financial Statements were submitted to the NSW Audit Office for final audit on 21 September 2026.

Adoption of this resolution will enable the Financial Statements to be lodged with the Office of Local Government immediately following completion of the audit process and prior to the statutory lodgement deadline of 31 October 2026.

The statements and auditors report will be presented to Council by a representative from the NSW audit office as per section 418 of the Act.

An Extraordinary General Meeting with ARIC was set for 18 September 2026 for review of the draft 2026 Financial Statements.

Financial

Council recorded a net operating deficit of $2.9m, compared with a $2.2m deficit in 2024/25. However, the result before capital grants improved materially from an $8.5m deficit to a $6.0m deficit. Total income increased slightly by $1.0m to $54.1m, while total expenses increased by $1.7m to $57.0m.

The most significant revenue movement was in operating grants and contributions, which increased by $5.1m to $14.3m. This was driven mainly by Financial Assistance Grant income increasing from $4.8m to $9.7m, including a $6.1m advance payment for the subsequent year, and $2.8m of storm/flood damage funding compared with $0.9m last year. This increase was partly offset by capital grants falling by $3.2m to $3.1m, particularly lower recreation and transport infrastructure funding. User charges and fees also declined by $1.5m to $12.7m, mainly because Transport for NSW works income reduced from $7.2m to $4.9m, although this remained well above budget due to additional RMCC ordered works. Rates and annual charges increased by $1.2m to $21.0m.

Expenses

Employee costs were broadly unchanged at $14.8m, despite a higher original budget. Council notes that vacancies in senior management positions reduced employee expenditure during the year, although one senior role was outsourced, contributing to contractor costs. Materials and services reduced by $1.2m to $22.1m, with lower raw materials and contractor costs partly offset by higher software, audit and other operating costs.

The most significant adverse movement was the net loss on disposal/write-off of assets, which increased from $2.2m to $4.2m. This included $3.8m of infrastructure assets written off, largely representing undepreciated components replaced through renewal programs, and a further loss on property disposals. Depreciation also increased by $0.7m to $14.0m, mainly across buildings, roads, water and sewer assets. These non-cash items were the main reason the overall accounting deficit worsened despite stronger grant income.

Financial position and cash

Council’s liquidity improved. Cash and investments increased by $4.9m to $36.1m, supported by net operating cash flows of $15.7m, up from $12.1m. Receivables reduced significantly from $5.7m to $3.7m, mainly because outstanding user charges and grant receivables declined. Borrowings also reduced from $4.4m to $3.6m because of repayments made during the year. 

However, most cash remains restricted or allocated. $20.0m is externally restricted and $14.0m internally allocated, leaving only $1.7m unrestricted and unallocated, compared with $0.5m last year.

Internally restricted cash increased by $6.1m from $7.9m in 2025 as the financial assistance grant payment received in advance for the 2026-2027 year has been internally restricted this year and was not included last year.

Assets and sustainability indicators

IPPE increased by $25.9m to $671.5m, mainly due to $33.8m of revaluation increments across land, buildings, roads and other infrastructure. Land, buildings and other structures were comprehensively revalued by external valuer Australis. Transport assets (roads, bridges, footpaths and bulk earthworks) were indexed at 4.23% and water, sewer and stormwater assets were indexed at 2.2% in 2026. This increase was partly offset by depreciation and asset disposals. Capital additions and renewals totalled approximately $11.4m, including significant road, water and sewer renewals. A significant portion of this is attributable to the completion of Stage 2 of the Sheridan Street upgrade, the Hillas Creek Bridge Replacement Project, Gundagai Water Treatment Plant refurbishment and upgrades to sewer rising mains and the Betts Street Sewer Pump Station in Cootamundra.

Infrastructure indicators are a key area of concern. The buildings and infrastructure renewals ratio was only 55.7%, well below the 100% benchmark, while the infrastructure backlog ratio increased sharply to 7.20% from 1.17%. The water fund backlog ratio is particularly high at 29.59%, and the sewer fund at 8.26%. The asset maintenance ratio is exactly 100%, indicating maintenance expenditure broadly matched the level identified as required, but not exceeded it.

Overall

Council’s underlying operating position improved before capital grants, supported by higher FAG recognition and flood funding, but the reported deficit worsened due mainly to higher asset write-offs and depreciation. Liquidity has improved but remains constrained by restrictions and allocations. The principal longer-term financial issues are the low infrastructure renewal rate, sharply higher infrastructure backlog—especially in water and sewer—and the need to maintain financial viability through the forthcoming demerger process noted in the subsequent events disclosure.

OLG 23a Guideline consideration

Report purpose does not conflict with guidelines.

 

 


Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

22 September 2026

 

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Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

22 September 2026

 

7.3.5      2027 Carry Forward Capital Budget

DOCUMENT NUMBER

476583

REPORTING OFFICER

Damian Smith, Acting Manager Finance

AUTHORISING OFFICER

Roger Bailey, Interim General Manager  

RELEVANCE TO COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN

4. Collaborative and progressive leadership

4.1 A clear strategic direction that is delivered upon

 

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

Net amount of $6.127M will be carried forward from prior year budget.

LEGISLATIVE IMPLICATIONS

There are no Legislative implications associated with this report.

POLICY IMPLICATIONS

There are no Policy implications associated with this report.

ATTACHMENTS

Nil

 

Recommendation

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

2.   The budget variations in the report totalling $6,126,823.44 be adopted.

 

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

Capital Expenditure

Manager

Category

Project Description

Funding Source

$ to carry forward

Engineering Cootamundra

Roads

Cootamundra Roads - Capital Works Budget - For Gasworks OMO

General

150,000.00

Engineering Cootamundra

Roads

FMP/0058 - Cootamundra Turf Club Detention Basin and McGowan Street Levee Feasibility Study – In progress

80% Grant 20% General

107,271.76

Engineering Cootamundra

Roads

FMP/0057 - Cootamundra flood warning system review – Complete – Final Invoice

80% Grant 20% General

3,284.64

Engineering Cootamundra

Roads

Villages Water Filling Stations (Investigation) – Previously Postponed

General

20,000.00

Engineering Cootamundra

Roads

Olney St Drainage - In progress

General

222,737.63

Engineering Cootamundra

Sewer

Cootamundra Sewerage treatment plant refurbishment - In progress

Reserve

 

   358,302.73

Engineering Cootamundra

Sewer

Sewer Telemetry/Scada Upgrades Cootamundra - In progress

Reserve

 

32,929.25

Engineering Cootamundra

Sewer

Vent Pipe Replacement - In progress

Reserve

63,531.14

Engineering Cootamundra

Sewer

Sewer Mains Replacement Cootamundra - In progress

Reserve

457,480.00

Engineering Cootamundra

Sewer

Betts St minor sewer pump station works

Reserve

50,000.00

Engineering Cootamundra

Water

Res 1 Chlorination, Cootamundra - Pending GFW

Reserve

 

95,137.28

Engineering Cootamundra

Water

Res 2 Chlorination, Matilda Avenue Cootamundra - Pending GFW

Reserve

 

248,489.78

Engineering Cootamundra

Water

Water Main Replacement Cootamundra – Ongoing - Pending GFW

Reserve

 

471,503.13

Engineering Cootamundra

Water

Water Telemetry/SCADA Upgrades Cootamundra - In progress

Reserve

 

57,200.00

 

 

 

 

 

Regional Services Cootamundra

Recreation

Cootamundra Pool Change Room Flooring Replacement

General

20,000.00

Regional Services Cootamundra

Recreation

Fisher Park Renovations – Previously going to Mitchell Park canteen and changerooms

General

 

64,077.82

 

 

 

 

 

Regional Services Gundagai

Building

Carberry Park Toilet Block Grant - Complete

Grant

20,430.26

Regional Services Gundagai

Building

Access upgrades to Gundagai Visitor Information Centre - Complete

Grant

12,042.02

Regional Services Gundagai

Building

Refurb Toilet Block - Gundagai Depot - Not Started

General

60,000.00

Regional Services Gundagai

Building

River Caravan Park - Building roofing and Gutter Cost – Not Started

Reserve

40,000.00

Regional Services Gundagai

Pools

Gundagai Swimming Pool Refurb

Grant/

Contribution from GunSwim

106,847.50

Regional Services Gundagai

Cemetery

Gundagai South & Lawn Cemetery Toilet Block - In progress

Reserve

44,394.00

Regional Services Gundagai

Cemetery

Lawn Cemetery - New Beam and irrigation – Complete but awaiting invoices  

Reserve

46,838.60

Regional Services Gundagai

Recreation

Gundagai District Services Club - Stage 1 Gundagai Effluent Reuse Project Storage Tanks & Pipework – Not Started

General

300,000.00

Regional Services Gundagai

Recreation

Gundagai District Services Club - Golf Course Irrigation Pump System – In progress

General

8,000.00

Regional Services Gundagai

Recreation

Street Tree Management Plan Implementation

General

42,620.00

Regional Services Gundagai

Recreation

Gundagai Pool Masterplan and Treatment/Filtration system renewal

14% General 86% Reserve

249,344.01

Regional Services Gundagai

Waste

Site Fencing Gundagai - 850mtrs at $50.00 per metre per resolution 147/2026 2.6.1

Reserve

42,500.00

Regional Services Gundagai

Waste

Site Groundwater Bores Gundagai - Res 147/2026 2.6.2

Reserve

20,000.00

Regional Services Gundagai

Waste

Site Security Improvements Gundagai – Installation of Solar and Battery system and additional CCTV Cameras Res 147/2026 2.6.3

Reserve

22,000.00

Regional Services Gundagai

Waste

Provision of a new site Amenities and weighbridge – Res 147/2026 2.6.4

Reserve

340,000.00

Regional Services Gundagai

Waste

Purchase of High Reach Loader unit for the site – Res 147/2026 2.6.4

Reserve

160,000.00

 

 

 

 

 

Engineering Gundagai

Roads

Gocup Rd Traffic Island (D&C) – Design completed - construction to occur

General

50,000.00

Engineering Gundagai

Roads

Cross and Eagle Sts Gundagai Intersection Design completed - roll into Gocup Rd Traffic Island (D&C)

General

1,142.49

Engineering Gundagai

Sewer

Gundagai Sewer Mains Upgrade

Reserve

179,380.63

Engineering Gundagai

Sewer

William St Pump Station Investigation and Design Upgrade – Not Started

Reserve

96,129.62

Engineering Gundagai

Water

Extension of Gundagai Water Supply to the Dog on the Tuckerbox site – In progress

Reserve

120,264.13

Engineering Gundagai

Water

Gundagai Water Treatment Plant Refurbishment - Sand Filters, Low & High Lift Pumps & Intake System

Reserve

134,222.48

Engineering Gundagai

Water

Gundagai WTP Refurbishment - Raw Water Intake (Construction) Not Started

Reserve

175,000.00

Engineering Gundagai

Water

Gundagai Water Mains Replacement Project – In progress

Reserve

427,668.49

Engineering Gundagai

Water

Gundagai WTP - Outlet works Cost – Not Started

Reserve

75,000.00

Engineering Gundagai

Water

Gundagai WTP - Alum Storage (Upgrade) – Not Started

Reserve

250,000.00

Engineering Gundagai

Water

Upgrade of the fluoridation system at the Gundagai WTP - NSW Health Fluoride Capital Work Subsidy

Reserve

651,329.05

 

 

 

 

 

Demerger Transition

Demerger

Demerger Costs pre-2027

General

29,725.00

Total

 

 

 

$6,126,823.44

Financial

No financial implications associated with this purpose of this report.

OLG 23a Guideline consideration

Report purpose does not conflict with guidelines.

 

 

 


7.4        Sustainable Development

7.4.1      DA2026/085 - proposed detached shed/garage - 23 Neil McInerney Street, Gundagai

DOCUMENT NUMBER

481424

REPORTING OFFICER

Craig Perrin, Town Planner

AUTHORISING OFFICER

Luke Izzard, Acting Manager Sustainable Development  

RELEVANCE TO COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN

3. Protected and enhanced environment

3.2 We have attractive towns and villages

 

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

There are no Financial implications associated with this report.

LEGISLATIVE IMPLICATIONS

There are no Legislative implications associated with this report.

POLICY IMPLICATIONS

There are no Policy implications associated with this report.

ATTACHMENTS

1.      Draft Notice of Determination DA2026-85 ⇩

2.      DA Assessment Report - DA2026-85 ⇩

3.      Submitted Plans and Documents for Approval ⇩    

 

Recommendation

That Council approve DA2026/85 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 of Determination.

 

Introduction

The proposed development involves the construction of a detached shed/garage at 23 Neil McInerney Street, Gundagai. The proposed building measures 6 metres x 6 metres and is proposed to be clad in colorbond custom orb cladding. The building is proposed with a front setback of 5.32 metres and would be located approximately 1 metre forward of the existing dwelling.

The proposed development does not comply with the Restrictions on the Use of Land identified as items 3(c) and 3(d) in the section 88B Instrument registered with Deposited Plan DP1173450.

The restrictions were imposed by Council in its capacity as the owner and developer at the time the subdivision was created. As the proposed development is inconsistent with the restrictions imposed by Council, the subject Development Application has been referred to Council for determination.

Discussion

Summary of Departure from Instrument

The proposed development does not meet the requirements of the Restriction on the Use of Land identified as 3(c) and 3(d) in the registered 88B Instrument registered on DP1173450, noting that the front setback is proposed to be 5.32 metres and does not comply with a setback minimum of 7 metres from the front street boundary. In addition, the external wall cladding is proposed to be colorbond cladding and not brick, stone, concrete, glass, timber or any combination of the same nor is it proposed to be clad with texture coated fibrous cement sheeting with a 160mm frame width and 80mm recessed windows.

Relevant terms of Restriction No. 3

The relevant terms of the Restriction on the Use of Land registered on DP1173450 pursuant to section 88B of the Conveyancing Act 1919 are described below:

Clause (c)

That no main building and any building ancillary to such main building shall be built or erected on any part of the Lot a distance of less than 7.0 metres from the street frontage boundary of the Lot PROVIDED THAT nothing in this covenant shall preclude or prohibit the erection of such main building or ancillary building on any part of the Lot a distance of 3.0 metres from the street frontage boundary where such Lot has more than one street frontage.

Clause (d)

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

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

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

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

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

(2) This clause does not apply—

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Legal Advice Obtained

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

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

Consideration of Public Interest

In considering the public interest, regard has been given to the appropriateness of granting development consent where aspects of the proposed development are inconsistent with restrictions imposed by an instrument under section 88B of the Conveyancing Act 1919. The section 88B instrument forms part of the title and contract of sale documentation affecting land within the subdivision and is therefore a matter capable of being identified by current and prospective landowners and other parties with an interest in the land.

Council records have not identified any written documentation explaining the specific planning rationale for the restrictions. However, it is reasonable to infer that the restrictions were intended, at least in part, to establish and maintain a consistent standard of residential development and streetscape presentation within the subdivision. The relevant restrictions regulate matters including front setbacks and the use of particular building materials.

In determining whether the proposed departure from these restrictions would be contrary to the public interest, consideration has been given to the likely impacts on the streetscape, surrounding properties and the established character of the locality.

There are a number of existing structures within the surrounding area, predominantly outbuildings, that do not appear to conform with the requirements of the restrictions. Having regard to the existing pattern and character of development, the nature and scale of the proposed structure, and its likely visual impact, the proposed departures relating to the front setback, building materials and associated appearance are not considered likely to result in any significant adverse impact on the streetscape, public domain or amenity of surrounding properties.

Importantly, the proposed departure relates to matters concerning setback, building materials and built form. It does not involve or compromise any easement, infrastructure corridor or other restriction necessary for the protection, maintenance or operation of essential infrastructure.

Accordingly, having regard to the circumstances of the site and surrounding development, approval of the proposed development notwithstanding its inconsistency with the relevant section 88B restrictions is not considered contrary to the public interest.

Conclusion

As the provisions of the Environmental Planning & Assessment Act 1979 do not mandate compliance with the instrument or the Conveyancing Act 1919 as part of the development application assessment process, compliance with the 88B instrument is not considered solely determinative of the application.

Having regard to the assessment undertaken, it is considered that approval of the development, including the proposed departure from the requirements of the 88B instrument, would not be contrary to the public interest. Accordingly, it is considered appropriate that the application be approved by Council, subject to conditions.

Financial

Nil

OLG 23a Guideline consideration

Does not conflict with guidelines.

 

 

 


Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

22 September 2026

 

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Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

22 September 2026

 

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Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

22 September 2026

 

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Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

22 September 2026

 

7.4.2      Local Heritage Grant Funding Allocation

DOCUMENT NUMBER

481580

REPORTING OFFICER

Craig Perrin, Town Planner

AUTHORISING OFFICER

Luke Izzard, Acting Manager Sustainable Development  

RELEVANCE TO COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN

3. Protected and enhanced environment

3.2 We have attractive towns and villages

 

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

$12,000 co-contributions towards the local heritage program.

LEGISLATIVE IMPLICATIONS

There are no Legislative implications associated with this report.

POLICY IMPLICATIONS

There are no Policy implications associated with this report.

ATTACHMENTS

1.      LHG Application Summary 2026-27 ⇩

2.      Local Heritage Grant 2026-27 - Application Assessments ⇩

3.      Heritage Report - Local Heritage Fund Applications 2026-27 ⇩    

 

Recommendation

That Council resolve to allocate $12,000 along with $12,500 of grant funding received through 2025-2027 NSW Heritage Grants Program received from Heritage NSW, Department of Climate Change, Energy, the Environment and Water for the purpose of the Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council Heritage Service as follows:-

1.      $12,500 be allocated to Council expenditure relating to Local a Heritage Advisory Service for costs incurred through the engagement of an external Heritage Consultation for heritage consultation and advice provided to members of the public on local heritage matters and to Council staff for Development Application matters; and

2.      The remaining $12,000 be split across four applications received by Council through the Cootamundra-Gundagai Local Heritage Grant Program 2026/27 as follows:

(a)     $3,250 be awarded to the terracotta roof restoration 46 Cooper St Cootamundra (JMA Office Building).

(b)     $3,500 be awarded to the replacement of asbestos sheeting to garage/shed 12 George St, Wallendbeen.

(c)      $3,250 be awarded to replace roofing canopy over fuel driveway 30 Wallendoon St Cootamundra.

(d)     $2,000 be awarded to front façade painting to Ellwood’s Hall 30 Martin St, Stockinbingal.

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

 

Introduction

Council has been successful in securing $25,000 in funding under the 2025-27 Local Government Heritage program to support the delivery of the Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council Heritage Service.

The funding is provided over two financial years, with Council receiving $12,500 in grant funding for each of the 2025/26 and 2026/27 financial years. This funding supports the continued operation of Council’s Heritage Service and assists Council in promoting the conservation and ongoing management of places of heritage significance across the local government area.

The Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council Heritage Service comprises two key components:

·    Local Heritage Grants – financial assistance to property owners to support the conservation, maintenance and restoration of buildings and places that have recognised heritage significance or contribute to the heritage character of the local area; and

·    Heritage Advisory Service – access to professional heritage advice from Council’s heritage consultant, provided to property owners and members of the community at no cost.

The Heritage Advisory Service also provides an important resource to Council by assisting with heritage-related development matters and supporting the appropriate conservation and management of heritage items and places.

The purpose of this report is to determine the allocation of the available heritage funding for the 2026/27 financial year.

Discussion

Local Heritage Grant Applications

Applications for Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council Local Heritage Grants Program, being a component of Council’s Heritage Service, were open from Monday 27 July 2026 to Monday 31 August 2026. The program was advertised through local papers and on Council’s website.

Council received a total of five applications:-

1.      An application seeking $5,000 for financial assistance with the restoration of the terracotta tiled roof at 46 Cooper St, Cootamundra (JMA Legal Building). A project with a total estimated value of $22,530. The building is not listed as a local heritage item but is located within the Cootamundra Heritage Conservation area.

2.      An application seeking $5,000 for financial assistance with the replacement of asbestos exterior sheeting of an attached shed and enhance appearance of the dwelling at 12 George St, Wallenbeen. The subject dwelling is identified as a Local Heritage Item I85 in Schedule 5 of the Cootamundra Local Environmental Plan (LEP) 2013.

3.      An application seeking $5,000 for financial assistance for cemetery conservation works in the North Gundagai Cemetery and other significant burial areas. This area is not identified as local heritage significance in the Gundagai LEP, but does include the State Heritage Item – Captain Moonlite and James Nesbitt’s Graves. Noting any works to a state heritage item will require separate approvals from the NSW Environment and Heritage Office before works commence.

Unfortunately this project was not recommended to receive grant funding under this program as there were a total of $22,000 funding requested with only a budget of $12,000. The heritage advisor recommended that the project/works first obtain engage a heritage specialist to identify the areas at North Gundagai Cemetery that will require conservations works.

4.      An application seeking $5,000 for financial assistance to replace the roofing over the fuel driveway area at 30 Wallendoon St, Cootamundra. The subject site is both a Local Heritage Item I52 in Schedule 5 of the Cootamundra LEP 2013 and located within the Heritage Conservation Area.

5.      An application seeking $2,000 for painting of the front façade to Ellwood’s Hall 30 Martin St Stockinbingal. The subject site is both a Local Heritage Item I82 in Schedule 5 of the Cootamundra LEP 2013 and located within the Heritage Conservation Area.

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

-  $3,250 to assist the restoration of the terracotta tiled roof at 46 Cooper St, Cootamundra (JMA Legal Building).

-  $3,500 to assist with the replacement of asbestos exterior sheeting of an attached shed and enhance appearance of the dwelling at 12 George St, Wallenbeen.

-  Nil contribution towards the cemetery conservation works in the North Gundagai Cemetery.

-  $3,250 to assist to replace the roofing over the fuel driveway area at 30 Wallendoon St, Cootamundra.

-  $2,000 to assist with the front façade painting to Ellwood’s Hall 30 Martin St Stockinbingal.

Financial

Council has been awarded $12,500 in grant funding under the 2025-27 Local Government Heritage Program for the 2026/27 financial year.

Whilst the grant funding does not require a mandatory co-contribution from Council, it is recommended that Council provide an appropriate financial contribution to supplement the grant funding. This will assist in delivering an effective and adequately resourced heritage service, including the provision of the Heritage Advisory Service and Local Heritage Grants.

OLG 23a Guideline consideration

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

 

 

 

 


Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

22 September 2026

 

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Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

22 September 2026

 

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Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

22 September 2026

 

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7.4.3      NSW Statewide Community Participation Plan

DOCUMENT NUMBER

481613

REPORTING OFFICER

Luke Izzard, Acting Manager Sustainable Development

AUTHORISING OFFICER

Roger Bailey, Interim General Manager  

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

This document changes the legislative requirements in relation to notifying Development Applications.

POLICY IMPLICATIONS

The repeal of Council's Community Participation Plan - CGRC - 2019 will remove a superseded planning document from Council's policy framework.

Community participation requirements for planning matters will continue to be governed by the NSW Statewide Community Participation Plan and the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979.

ATTACHMENTS

1.      Community Participation Plan ⇩    

 

37BRecommendation

That Council:

1.   Note the commencement of the NSW Statewide Community Participation Plan on 1 September 2026.

2.   Note that the Statewide Community Participation Plan applies to all planning authorities in New South Wales, including Councils.

3.   Repeal the Community Participation Plan - CGRC - 2019, adopted by Council on 29 October 2019.

4.   Authorise the General Manager to undertake all administrative actions necessary to remove the repealed document from Council's policy register and website and replace references with the NSW Statewide Community Participation Plan.

5.   Undertakes a media campaign to provide more detailed information to the community regarding the proposed changes and its key impacts locally.

 

Introduction

The NSW Government has introduced a single statewide Community Participation Plan (CPP) that commenced on 1 September 2026. The new CPP was prepared by the Planning Secretary and applies to all planning authorities across New South Wales, including local councils.

One of the key reforms arising from the Planning System Reforms Act 2025 is the establishment of a single statewide CPP to provide consistency in consultation requirements and exhibition timeframes across NSW. The Statewide CPP expressly applies to councils and other planning authorities and standardises public exhibition requirements for planning functions.

As the Statewide CPP now governs community participation requirements under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, Council's existing Community Participation Plan - CGRC - 2019 is redundant and should be formally repealed.

Discussion

Background

The Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979 previously required planning authorities, including councils, to prepare and adopt their own Community Participation Plans.

In response to these requirements, Council adopted the Community Participation Plan - CGRC - 2019 on 29 October 2019. The document outlined local notification, exhibition and engagement requirements for planning proposals, development applications, development control plans, contribution plans and other planning matters within the Cootamundra-Gundagai Local Government Area.

The NSW Government has subsequently implemented planning reforms intended to improve consistency across the State. The new Community participation plan - State 2026 commenced on 1 September 2026 and applies to all planning authorities, including local councils, State agencies and the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure.

Statewide Community Participation Plan

The Statewide CPP establishes mandatory community participation requirements and public exhibition timeframes for planning functions undertaken throughout New South Wales. The document specifically states that it applies to all planning authorities including local councils and has been prepared by the Planning Secretary under Division 2.6 of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979.

Importantly, the Statewide CPP introduces consistent exhibition periods across NSW and removes the need for individual councils to prescribe their own exhibition timeframes. The document notes that councils may still develop engagement strategies outlining consultation methods tailored to their communities; however, these strategies cannot specify alternative public exhibition timeframes.

Implications for Council

Council's 2019 CPP contains local notification provisions and exhibition requirements for planning instruments and development applications. These provisions have effectively been superseded by the Statewide CPP, which now establishes the mandatory exhibition periods and consultation requirements that Council must apply when exercising planning functions under the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979.

Retaining Council's 2019 CPP may create confusion for applicants, owners and staff regarding applicable notification requirements. Repealing the document will ensure that Council's planning framework aligns with current State legislation and policy.

Should Council wish to provide additional guidance on consultation methods and community engagement practices in the future, this may be achieved through a separate community engagement or engagement strategy document, consistent with the framework contemplated by the Statewide CPP.

Financial

No financial implications.

OLG 23a Guideline consideration

Does not conflict with guidelines.

 

 

 


Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

22 September 2026

 

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Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

22 September 2026

 

7.5        Engineering Cootamundra

7.5.1      Cootamundra Engineering Report - August 2026

DOCUMENT NUMBER

481199

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 August 2026 be noted.

 

Introduction

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

Discussion

Local Roads

Civil works crews have been moving through the local road network cleaning drains and replacing guideposts during periods of wet weather during August. Grading crews moved through the Stockinbingal, Wallendbeen, Milvale and Yannawah areas undertaking gravel patching and maintenance grading have been carried out when conditions are suitable. Works have been completed in:-


-     Lewins Lane

-     Greens Lane

-     Hines Lane

-     Haines Lane

-     Back Nubba Road

-     McLaughlin’s Lane

-     Boyds Lane

-     Racecourse Lane

-     Freemans Lane

-     Wallendoon Lane



The concrete crew and mini excavators worked on preparation for the kerb to be laid following completion of pipes being laid on the Olney Street drainage project. The team assisted with kerb renewal as well as drain and stormwater maintenance before moving on to footpath maintenance in various locations throughout Cootamundra.

Mowing of the airport was completed in preparation for a car event in August. Council staff were in attendance for the event monitoring vehicle and pedestrian movements in accordance with risk assessments undertaken as part of the event management plan. Town drainage has been cleared during periods of wet weather, as well as moving through the footpath network correcting trip hazards and uneven walkways and carrying out sign replacements. This includes installation of a new stop sign and lines at the intersection of Crown and Adams Streets as per previous Council resolution.

Stockpile maintenance has been carried out in various local heavy patching locations in between carting materials to gravel patching sites in between heavy vehicle inspections required for registration renewals. Potholes and minor patching works are continuing to keep the network intact. The excavator has been operating at the waste facility turning over compost and cleaning up tip sites. The mini crew are minor patching for RMCC on MR78 and working through the villages clearing pipes and culverts.

 

Civil Projects

Backfilling of trench on the Olney Street Storm Water was completed ready for kerb install which was completed during the last week of August, with a contractor onsite installing the final two pits prior to Council staff reconnecting the water main.

Adams Street culvert replacement Geotechnical report has been received and concept design completed. Request for Quotation (RFQ) documents were completed for structural design of base slab, top slab and heawalls.

Preparation of costings for road maintenance on Dirnaseer Road, Old Cootamundra Road, and Dudauman Road was completed following discussions with Council staff and relevant stakeholders.

Work has commenced on preparation of a project list for potential inclusion in Council’s updated 7.12 contributions plans.

An ecologist has been arranged to undertake inspections prior to commencement of Berthong Road works, involving vegetation maintenance prior to commencement of capital works.

Council’s heavy patching and reseal program has been finalised.

 

RMCC

Routine Services continue on Olympic Highway and Burley Griffin Way.

Olympic Highway – TfNSW continue design of segment rehabilitation which will include tree removal and culvert replacement pre-works. As TfNSW are still designing works to allow costing and material ordering, it is expected tree removals and culvert replacements will be undertaken early in the New Year. Roadside weed spraying will commence on 1 September in preparation for slashing later in the month.

Heavy Patching Program – Costing has been approved by TfNSW. Work expected to start Monday 14 September and go for approximately 4-weeks. Reseal Program has been confirmed by TfNSW. The contractor has been advised of scope and requested to pencil in these works from mid-September to early December to allow line marking prior to Christmas. Sand patch testing has been completed and preliminary seal designs received.

Reseal Program has been confirmed by TfNSW. The contractor has been advised of scope and requested to pencil in these works from mid-September to early December to allow line marking prior to Christmas. Contractor was on site 19 August to survey segments and perform sand patch testing.

 

WHS

At the end of August Council achieved 29 days without an injury claim and 17 days without a plant claim. The Aerodrome manual has been reviewed and will be in place by mid-September, and aerodrome OLS has been completed for this year. Safety Data Sheet Emergency Boxes have been placed at the entry of all Cootamundra Council locations, SDS sheets are being updated.

 

Road Safety

Local Transport Forum – The group met in Gundagai for a meeting scheduled on 13 August. Several reports have been prepared for consideration at the Local Transport Forum meeting in November.

Community Consultation – Local Government Week events held in both Cootamundra and Gundagai showcasing Council services. Cootamundra-Gundagai Regional Council conducted two rounds of community consultation to assist Transport for NSW in gathering feedback from the local government area on the Draft Riverina Murray Strategic Regional Integrated Transport Plan. Community engagement was positive, with 12 residents formally contributing feedback during the consultation period. In addition, a number of community members have continued to contact Council to share their views and experiences, demonstrating strong local interest in the future planning and development of transport services and infrastructure across the region.

Traffic Counters – Traffic counter training was provided to staff including the deployment, retrieval and download of traffic count data. One traffic counter on Cootamundra local roads was replaced following the identification of corrupted data. In Gundagai, five traffic counters were installed and are scheduled for data download, analysis and resetting as part of Council's ongoing traffic monitoring program. Three counters were removed from State Roads in Cootamundra following the completion of data collection. The resulting traffic data will be used to prepare reports for heavy patching works.

Event Management – Stakeholders and event organisers met to confirm final arrangements for the Festival of Gundagai.  Wattle time Fair event management plan and traffic guidance scheme submitted to Council’s insurance company for review.

The Vintage Sports Car Sprints event has been cancelled by the organisers due to issues obtaining adequate insurance coverage.  Relevant stakeholders have been notified. Council has also received two additional bookings for motorsport events at the Cootamundra Aerodrome in 2028.

The Book Week Parade in Cootamundra was successfully delivered, with traffic management and event coordination proceeding smoothly. Event Management Plans (EMP) and Traffic Guidance Schemes (TGS) for the Festival of Gundagai were submitted to Transport for NSW and NSW Police for their information and review. Regulatory Services were also consulted regarding requests associated with the Show and Shine event scheduled for the weekend, ensuring all necessary approvals and operational requirements are being addressed.

Youth Road Safety Programs – Discussions were held with the Youth and Inclusion Officer regarding the coordination of upcoming youth road safety programs in Temora and Wagga Wagga. The officer has agreed to assume responsibility for the delivery of these programs and has been introduced to the event organisers. All relevant information and available documentation have been provided to support a smooth transition and ongoing program coordination.

Water & Sewer

The team has completed installation of a 100mm fire service to a commercial property in Cootamundra. Water and sewer infrastructure is being repaired as required, including clearing sewer chokes and repairing leaking services.

Increased water main flushing has been completed throughout August in response to dirty water complaints resulting from the hydrant assessments currently being undertaken. Between maintenance responses, staff have been catching up on backfilling of previous burst main repairs and taking water meter reads.

Cootamundra Standpipe Income – August 2026

2026/2027

No. of Transactions

Income ($6/KL)

KL

Previous Year Income

2026

July

30

$378.75

63.146

$254.19

2026

August

10

$451.00

75.182

$1,066.02

2026

September

-

-

-

$1,538.89

2026

October

-

-

-

$3,733.97

2026

November

-

-

-

$2,945.37

2026

December

-

-

-

$3,257.99

2027

January

-

-

-

$1,457.59

2027

February

-

-

-

$0

2027

March

-

-

-

$0

2027

April

-

-

-

$0

2027

May

-

-

-

$5.20

2027

June

-

-

-

$88.41

2026/2027

Totals

40

$829.75

138.328

$14,347.63

 

Workshop

Staff have been busy carrying out pink-slip inspections for the annual fleet registration renewal. General services continue to be completed including a lot of windscreen replacements and finishing up pre-pit inspections for the Heavy white fleet for this year.

Financial

Projects funded from various funding sources as noted above.

Maintenance works funded from General Fund and align with the 2026/2027 budget.

OLG 23a Guideline consideration

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

 

 

 

 


Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

22 September 2026

 

7.6        Engineering Gundagai

7.6.1      Gundagai Engineering Report - August 2026

DOCUMENT NUMBER

481272

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 August 2026 be noted.

 

Introduction

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

Discussion

Road Maintenance

Programmed road maintenance has been hampered by wet weather throughout August.  The change in schedule has provided an opportunity for staff to inspect culverts and undertake guidepost inspection and replacement work across the LGA. Council staff are undertaking preparations for the upcoming heavy patching works and re-sealing season by gathering the required data to finalise designs.

Maintenance grading crews have been grading Armors Lane, Nanagroe Road, Jerusalem Road and Mahers Road. Table drain maintenance was carried out around Adjungbilly while crews were in the area. The concreting crew have undertaken footpath repairs on Tor Street.

Roadside slashing has commenced along Nangus Road and Muttama Road as growth increases with the warmer weather.

 

Projects

Annie Pyers Drive Watermain Project - physical construction works commenced on site on 24 August. Initial works will include establishment of a site compound, followed by plastic welding pipes together into longer lengths ready for installation. Multiple long lengths of pipe are now ready to be installed into the ground. Council will be reaching out to landowners along the route over the coming weeks advising them that they can now submit an application to connect to the water line.

Replacement of the northbound Sheahan Bridge on the Hume Highway, over the Murrumbidgee River - Transport for NSW (TfNSW) has been progressing with planning for their asset. As part of these works, TfNSW is also investigating alternative routes which vehicles may utilise to ensure that these routes are suitable for an increased traffic load. Prince Alfred Bridge has been identified as not being suitable for in its current form for the increased traffic. TfNSW are in early stages of completing concept assessments and investigations to determine what works will need to be undertaken to strengthen this bridge to withstand increased loads and traffic volumes.

Mundarlo Bridge works are progressing well with all piles being driven and casings poured. Fifty percent of pile caps in the river have been poured along with six columns and the abutment on the southern side. The project has been injury and incident free to date. The relationship with the contractor is open and collaborative. The next stage of the works include the pouring of the headstocks. The 40 beams which each weigh 20 tonnes are being precast in Young and Newcastle. Council are liaising with the contractor and Hilltops Council to implement a road closure for a week at the end of September to lift the 40 beams into place. Notifications with locally affected businesses are continuing and 11 VMS boards are being strategically placed from Wagga to G7undadagi to ensure heavy vehicles are fully aware of the Tenandra road closure.

 

National Heavy Vehicle Register

Council has reached out to Transport for NSW again regarding the mapping of the Farm Gate Access Scheme. It is understood that this has been escalated within TfNSW to director level who are advocating on behalf of Council to NHVR to get their mapping updated. Council has received notification that NHVR have accepted Councils mapping submission and it is now in the “Review” phase. Once review has been completed by NHVR, they will finalise the application and then publish the application.

TfNSW have advised that NHVR have been struggling to undertake mapping updates since moving to a new mapping system a few years ago. Currently Council doesn’t have a timeline for the review, finalise or publish stages for the supplied mapping submission, however it is expected to take some months.

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.

Council has received 46 applications and reviewed a total of 46 Access Permit Applications for the LGA during August 2026.

Applications Received

Approved with Conditions

Refusals

46

41

1

Currently the average time where an application is with Council for assessment is 0.9 days.

 

Water and Sewer

Contractors are actively working through pipe laying of the watermain replacement in Gundagai with works progressing along Virgil Street towards Sheridan Street during the reporting period.

Sewer replacement has been substantially completed by contractors in Gundagai under the current contract. A small 30m section of pipe in South Gundagai is the only section remaining.  

The failed effluent pump in the pump set located at the Golf Club has been removed and replaced with a second-hand operational pump. The replacement will enable the system to operate more effectively, reducing pump run times and allowing the Golf Club and sporting ovals to be watered within the timeframes required under Council's EPA licence for irrigation using recycled effluent from the Gundagai Treatment Plant.

Water meter reading has been undertaken in Gundagai in readiness for water utility billing.

 

Hydrant Inspections

Councils contractors have undertaken inspection and testing of hydrants within Cootamundra township. The latest data available is as follows:

Description

Number

Working Hydrants

218

Non-working hydrant – capped

19

Non-working hydrant – too deep

33

Non-working hydrants - other

71

Total inspected

341

Most non-working hydrants are a result of insect nests filling the hydrant void with silt. Council are cleaning out and applying insect bait to hydrants to prevent re-occurrences in the short term.

Inspections will continue throughout Cootamundra and once completed will occur in Gundagai. Throughout the inspection process Council has received a small number of dirty water complaints. Council has been working with customers to assist them with discoloured water where required.

Financial

Projects funded from various sources as noted above and align with the adopted 2026/2027 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

22 September 2026

 

7.7        Regional Services Gundagai

7.7.1      Gundagai Regional Services Report - August 2026

DOCUMENT NUMBER

481224

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 August 2026 be noted.

 

Overview

This report highlights the key achievements, project milestones, operational activities and service delivery outcomes undertaken by the Gundagai Regional Services Division during August 2026. Throughout the month, Council continued to deliver a broad range of services across public infrastructure, recreational facilities, community assets, cemetery operations, biosecurity management and regulatory compliance functions.

August was characterised by the continued progression of capital works projects, implementation of routine maintenance programs, advancement of strategic initiatives and ongoing delivery of essential community services. Council staff remained focused on maintaining service standards, improving public assets, supporting community wellbeing and ensuring compliance with legislative requirements.

 

The following report provides a summary of the major activities, achievements and outcomes delivered by the Gundagai Regional Services team during August 2026.

 

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

Key Achievements for the Month:

 

Council staff continued to deliver maintenance, and enhancement works across parks, reserves and recreational facilities, resulting in improved community amenity, safety and asset conditions.

 

 

 

 

Key achievements during the reporting period included:

 

·    Completion of extensive cleaning and maintenance works along the Morley's Creek walking tracks and pathway network following the departure of the flying-fox colony, significantly improving accessibility and presentation.

·    Assessment of vegetation impacts within the affected areas, with planning commenced for the removal of damaged and hazardous trees resulting from the colony's occupation.

·    Ongoing preparation of sporting fields for the upcoming spring season, including turf management activities, irrigation inspections and surface condition assessments.

·    Routine playground inspections and maintenance undertaken across Council facilities to ensure assets remain safe, functional and compliant with relevant standards.

·    Continued mowing, pruning, weed management, rubbish collection and asset inspections across parks, reserves and public open spaces, maintaining a high standard of presentation throughout the region.

·    Planning and implementation of seasonal beautification and maintenance programs to support increased community use of open spaces during the warmer months.

Council Facilities

·    Successfully implemented contracted cleaning services across the Council Administration Building, Visitor Information Centre and Gundagai Library, resulting in improved presentation standards, consistency of service delivery and enhanced amenity for staff, residents and visitors.

·    Ongoing maintenance and inspection programs across Council buildings, including minor repairs, safety checks and preventative maintenance works.

·    Continued monitoring and operation of the upgraded Emergency Operations Centre (EOC), ensuring readiness to support emergency management and business continuity requirements.

·    Coordination of contractor access and facility maintenance works across multiple Council-owned sites.

·    Preparation of facilities and public amenities for increased visitation throughout the spring season.

·    Regular inspections of public amenities and community facilities to identify maintenance requirements and ensure a high standard of cleanliness and functionality.

·    Energy, lighting and air-conditioning systems monitored and maintained to support efficient building operations.

·    Customer service facilities, including the Visitor Information Centre and Library, continued to operate effectively, providing important services to residents and visitors.

·    Asset condition assessments undertaken to assist with future maintenance planning and capital works prioritisation.

·    Investigations commenced into future building improvement opportunities aimed at enhancing accessibility, functionality and user experience across Council facilities.

 

Gundagai Memorial Swimming Pool

·    Preparation works for the upcoming 2026/27 swimming season continued throughout August, with painting of the pool structure commencing to ensure the facility is presented to a high standard ahead of opening.

·    Concourse upgrade works continued to progress, with contractors advancing key project milestones in accordance with the project program.

·    Council continued to monitor project delivery and maintenance activities to ensure quality outcomes, safety standards and operational readiness for the forthcoming pool season.

·    Ongoing liaison continued regarding the proposed Green Bean Carbon electrical easement adjacent to the pool site, with Council awaiting updated documentation from the applicant for assessment and consideration.

Cemeteries

Council continued to actively manage and maintain cemetery facilities throughout the Gundagai region, with a focus on customer service, asset management, preservation of heritage assets and long-term planning.

Activities undertaken during August included:

·    Five interments were coordinated and conducted in accordance with legislative requirements and established operational procedures.

·    Continued administration of burial reservations within Council's monumental cemeteries to support future interment planning and customer service outcomes.

·    Irrigation works within the North Gundagai Lawn Cemetery were successfully completed, enhancing the long-term presentation and sustainability of the cemetery grounds.

·    An application was submitted for heritage grant funding to assist with preservation and improvement projects within the North Gundagai Monumental Cemetery, supporting the protection of significant heritage assets.

·    Routine monumental risk assessments continued across cemetery sites to identify and manage public safety risks associated with aging monuments and infrastructure.

·    Cemetery data verification has been completed for the South Gundagai and North Gundagai Lawn Cemeteries in preparation for the demerger process, with verification works continuing across the remaining cemetery locations.

·    Ongoing maintenance activities including mowing, weed control, grounds maintenance and infrastructure inspections were undertaken across all cemetery sites to maintain a high standard of presentation and safety.

·    Asset management planning continued to identify future infrastructure renewal priorities and support the long-term sustainability of cemetery operations.

Biosecurity

Biosecurity activities throughout August remained focused on compliance, education, monitoring, weed control and risk reduction across the Local Government Area. Operational works targeted priority weed species, supported landholder engagement, and ensured ongoing compliance with biosecurity obligations.

Key achievements included:

·    Ongoing administration activities including WAP record keeping, Rapid Logix updates, timesheet processing and biosecurity reporting.

·    Completion of five private property inspections to assess weed management compliance and identify emerging biosecurity risks.

·    Roadside inspections undertaken on Cooinee Road and Burra Road, with plant samples collected for identification and assessment.

·    Inspection of Crown Land to investigate and assess identified Horehound infestations.

·    Targeted weed control works undertaken across multiple locations, including:

o  Muttama Road (Environmental Weeds, Variegated Thistle and Blackberry)

o  Anzac Park (Capeweed)

o  Gundagai Skate Park (Capeweed)

o  Bridge Street, Muttama

·    Removal of African Boxthorn at Petit using chainsaw control methods.

·    Depot maintenance works are completed, including line trimming along the eastern boundary and entrance areas to improve site presentation and reduce vegetation-related risks.

·    Following a Safety Scrum inspection, all Safety Data Sheet (SDS) labels within the chemical storage area were reviewed and updated, and acid buffers were appropriately isolated from incompatible chemicals.

·    Staff participated in professional development activities, including the User Awareness Course: Internet of Things, supporting continued compliance and operational capability.

·    Continued monitoring and assessment of emerging weed incursions and potential pest threats, enabling early intervention where required.

·    Participation in regional information sharing and collaboration with partner agencies to support coordinated biosecurity outcomes.

Council remains committed to protecting agricultural productivity, environmental values and community assets through proactive biosecurity management, education, compliance activities and targeted weed control programs.

Gundagai Public & Council Facilities income

Gundagai RV Park Income August 2026

·    01/08/26 – 31/08/26 - Total Income $556.40

Gundagai Landfill Income August 2026

·    01/08/26 – 31/08/26 - General Income $4181.79

 

 

 


 

Gundagai Standpipe Income August 2026

2026/2027

Income

Number of Transactions

2025/26 Income

2026

July

$7204.41

15

$3,013.61

2026

August

$5813.62

17

$1,202.81

2026

September

$

 

$2,543.68

2026

October

$

 

$1,827.94

2026

November

$

 

$5,232.65

2026

December

$

 

$6,384.75

2027

January

$

 

$11,743.19

2027

February

$

 

$26,650.59

2027

March

$

 

$25,746.73

2027

April

$

 

$17,136.31

2027

May

$

 

$21,059.48

2027

June

$

 

$12,538.85

26/27

Totals

$13,018.03

32

$135,080.59

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Gundagai Saleyards Truck Wash August 2026

2026/2027

Income GST Incl.

Number of Transactions

2025/26 Income

2026

July

$4164.37

30

$3,518.05

2026

August

$3608.78

34

$3,254.40

2026

September

$

 

$4,022.16

2026

October

$

 

$5,094.67

2026

November

$

 

$3,976.71

2026

December

$

 

$3,170.29

2027

January

$

 

$3,908.68

2027

February

$

 

$2,455.41

2027

March

$

 

$3,442.91

2027

April

    $

 

  $3,641.40

2027

May

$

 

$3,179.79

2027

June

$

 

$5,562.64

26/27

Totals

$7773.15

64

$45,227.11

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 activities, responsible animal management and community education initiatives.


 

Key outcomes during August included:

·      One dog and two cats were successfully rehomed, resulting in positive animal welfare outcomes and reducing the number of animals held within the pound.

·      Two dogs remain in Council's care and continue to be managed in accordance with legislative and welfare requirements while suitable outcomes are pursued.

·      Two additional vehicles were impounded during the reporting period in accordance with Council's regulatory responsibilities.

·      Ongoing monitoring and management of impounded animals to ensure compliance with statutory obligations.

·      Continued promotion of responsible pet ownership, including education relating to registration, identification and animal welfare requirements.

·      Maintenance of accurate companion animal and impounding records to support regulatory compliance and reporting requirements.

Council remains committed to delivering fair and effective compliance activities that support community safety, animal welfare and adherence to relevant legislation.

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

22 September 2026

 

7.8        Regional Services Cootamundra

7.8.1      Cootamundra Regional Services Report - August 2026

DOCUMENT NUMBER

481242

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 August 2026 be noted.

 

Introduction

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

Discussion

Parks & Gardens

Staff are working through customer requests for trees, with the wet weather allowing staff to prioritise this area. As there is a backlog of tree requests, requests are being prioritised with works dangerous trees being completed before general maintenance pruning. Contractors have been engaged to assess some larger jobs outside the scope of Council and on defects where an Arborist opinion is required.

Parks staff are continuing to prune and shape trees and undertake repairs to any damaged fairy lights within the trees in the CBD in preparation for the Wattle Time Fair. Plants have been ordered and replacements have been planted to fill the gaps within several gardens in the CBD that occurred due to a combination of vandalism and pedestrians walking in gardens. General seasonal maintenance will continue within the CBD as spring growth increases.

Staff are continuing to carry out weekly playground inspections and repair any necessary components. Staff have turned the water back on to the water play element at Livvi’s Place park. Garden beds have been reshaped and granite footpath areas extended to allow with ease of mowing and more efficient maintenance.

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

Truck Wash

The truck wash recorded 149 transactions, generating $7916.66 in invoicing. A contractor is looking to connect a secondary tank so that water is available when a high number of trucks use the facility.

 

Cemeteries

There were three funerals in August, with one being at Stockinbingal and two at Cootamundra with one of those being in the monumental section.

 

Regulatory Services

Council’s new ShelterManager program is proving to be a valuable tool for managing the shelter and capturing statistics in an easy and accessible format. The program allows staff to record animal health, monitor daily eating and bodily functions, document treatments provided, and record kennel and condo cleaning. These records form part of Council’s mandatory record-keeping requirements.

 

Previously, this information was recorded manually on paper and then scanned and filed at the end of each month. ShelterManager has significantly streamlined this process, allowing information to be recorded and accessed electronically as it occurs.

 

The program also allows staff to search an animal’s history, including previous occasions when it has been collected by Council. This information can assist officers in identifying recurring issues and considering appropriate action where animals are repeatedly found in the community.

 

During the reporting period, three dogs were collected in the field and returned directly to their owners without entering the shelter.

 

A further two cats and 19 dogs entered the shelter. This included a litter of 8 pups.

 

Of the animals entering the shelter:

·      3 dogs were adopted;

·      1 dog was reclaimed by its owner;

·      4 dogs and 3 cats were transferred to rescue organisations; and

·      4 animals were humanely euthanised.

 

Of the four animals euthanised, two were dogs subject to menacing declarations and therefore could not legally be rehomed. The remaining two were cats that had been caught in traps. Both cats were assessed by a local veterinarian and, in accordance with section 64B(8) of the Companion Animals Act 1998, were humanely euthanised.

 

The Companion Animal Register recorded 19 lifetime registrations totalling $625.

 

The team participated in Local Government Week, providing educational material to kids, handing out merchandise and having conversations about responsible pet ownership with the community.

 

 

 

Biosecurity

Eighteen locations were inspected in August including council owned land, private property, red guidepost area’s and drone inspections. Spraying continued throughout the LGA and mechanical removal in Cootamundry Creek.

 

General Overview:

-     Rabbit baiting at the Ampol Old Fuel Depot and Aerodrome.

-     Local Government Week – Biosecurity section at the library

-     Red Guidepost yearly inspection and co-ordinate updates for the Red Guidepost Program

-     Drone inspections on the Muttama Creek (footage to be completed/finished processing soon)

-     Private property Inspections have been started also

-     This month RMCC have booked the main spray vehicle out for a few weeks this month so a number of other biosecurity objectives have been worked on such as Rabbit Baiting, Red guidepost inspections, drone inspections, roadway/waterway inspections and private property inspections.

 

Planned:

-     Private property inspections to continue

-     Red Guidepost program to be completed

-     Henty field days visit/bio talk

-     Rabbit baiting to be completed early September

-     Continued WAP funding targets

-     RMCC to have main spray vehicle booked for a few weeks, continued WAP targets to be prioritized.

-     Spraying of the Ampol Old Fuel Depot, spraying to begin on Pioneer Park.

 

Waste Services

The secondhand tip shop processed 74 transactions for August with a total of $549.28 in income. During this time staff have diverted 900kg of waste from the landfill into the shop to be repurposed.

A total of 1014 tonnes of recycled crushed concrete was sold this month and a total of 42 tonnes of compost soil. We are currently selling large volumes of both compost and crushed concrete with regular outgoing loads scheduled over the coming weeks.

 

Facilities

Small maintenance jobs are still being done within several council buildings by Parks & Gardens staff. Small maintenance jobs on public toilets have been carried out to maintain a suitable standard. Replacement of needle boxes and other rusted out fixtures have also been undertaken.

The front entrance door to the women’s bathroom at the Wallendoon Street toilets had to be repaired due to vandalism. The hinges and door frame were damaged, restricting the door to open correctly. 

A contractor has been engaged to undertake preventative maintenance works on the roofs, gutters and downpipes of Council buildings throughout Cootamundra, including the removal of accumulated debris.

Routine fire safety inspections have been completed at all Council buildings across Cootamundra, Stockinbingal and Wallendbeen. A small number of minor defects were identified and are currently being addressed.

The Cootamundra Swimming Pool complex has undergone pest treatment to control spiders and other insects.

The Request for Tender for the management and operation of the Cootamundra Swimming Pool Complex and Cootamundra Sports Stadium has been released via VendorPanel. The tender closes on 16 September, with the evaluation process and contract award anticipated to be completed in early October. This will allow sufficient time for preparations ahead of the proposed contract commencement on 1 November.

A contractor has commenced repair and replacement works to deteriorated timber at Bradman Cottage. Painting works to the memorabilia building have also been completed.

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

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Capital Works Projects

The renovation project at the designated flood evacuation centre within the Cootamundra Showground luncheon pavilion is currently undergoing its final fit-out. The facility has undergone a significant transformation and will provide a valuable community asset during future flood events. The upgraded facility will also be available for hire for private functions and events.

The Fisher Park changerooms project has been completed, with only the installation of the grease trap remaining. The grease trap is currently on backorder. An official opening is anticipated to be held following the completion of the football season.

Financial

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

OLG 23a Guideline consideration

No impacts associated with this report.

 

 

 


Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

22 September 2026

 

8            Motion of which Notice has been Given

Nil

9            Questions with Notice

Nil

 


Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

22 September 2026

 

10         Confidential Items

10.1       Closed Council Report

DOCUMENT NUMBER

479833

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

4.1 A clear strategic direction that is delivered upon

 

FINANCIAL IMPLICATIONS

There are no Financial implications associated with this report.

LEGISLATIVE IMPLICATIONS

To facilitate compliance with sections 10 and 11 of the Local Government Act 1993.

POLICY IMPLICATIONS

There are no Policy implications associated with this report.

ATTACHMENTS

Nil 

 

Note

Council’s Code of Meeting Practice allows members of the public present to indicate whether they wish to make representations to the meeting, before it is closed to the public, as to whether that part of the meeting dealing with any or all of the matters listed should be closed.

 

38BRECOMMENDATION

1.      Items 10.2, 10.3, 10.4, 10.5, 10.6, 10.7 and 10.8 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.

2.      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, 10.4, 10.5, 10.6, 10.7 and 10.8 be withheld from the press and public.

10.2       Human Resources Report

Provisions for Confidentiality

Section 10A (2) (a)  – The Confidential Report contains personnel matters concerning particular individuals (other than councillors).

Public Interest

N/A.

10.3       Hardship Application - Assessment 10038313

Provisions for Confidentiality

Section 10A (2) (b)  – The Confidential Report contains discussion in relation to the personal hardship of a resident or ratepayer.

Public Interest

N/A.

10.4       Hardship Application - Assessment 11019510

Provisions for Confidentiality

Section 10A (2) (b)  – The Confidential Report contains discussion in relation to the personal hardship of a resident or ratepayer.

Public Interest

N/A.

10.5       Hardship Application - Assessment 10036010

Provisions for Confidentiality

Section 10A (2) (b)  – The Confidential Report contains discussion in relation to the personal hardship of a resident or ratepayer.

Public Interest

N/A.

10.6       Hardship Application - Assessment 11015286

Provisions for Confidentiality

Section 10A (2) (b)  – The Confidential Report contains discussion in relation to the personal hardship of a resident or ratepayer.

Public Interest

N/A.

10.7       Hardship Application - Assessment 10003481

Provisions for Confidentiality

Section 10A (2) (b)  – The Confidential Report contains discussion in relation to the personal hardship of a resident or ratepayer.

Public Interest

N/A.

10.8       TENDER - MANAGEMENT AND OPERATION OF COUNCIL'S COOTAMUNDRA SWIMMING POOL AND SPORTS STADIUM FACILITY

Provisions for Confidentiality

Section 10A (2) (c) - information that would, if disclosed, confer a commercial advantage on a person with whom the Council is conducting (or proposes to conduct) business.

Public Interest

Contract arrangements.