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2018-04-10 Planning & Environment Committee Agenda
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AGENDA
Planning & Environment
Committee Meeting
Tuesday, 10 April 2018
commencing at 9.30am
Committee Room, 9 Pelican Street, Tewantin
Committee: Crs Brian Stockwell (Chair), Jess Glasgow, Ingrid Jackson, Tony Wellington
“Noosa Shire – different by nature”
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Full text of the other 37 sections
Section 2
PLANNING & ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA 10 APRIL 2018
TABLE OF CONTENTS
ITEM PAGE
ATTENDANCE & APOLOGIES -
PRESENTATIONS -
REPORTS FOR CONSIDERATION OF THE COMMITTEE 3
1 PLANNING & ENVIRONMENT COURT APPEAL NO. 456/2018 - REFUSAL OF
DEVELOPMENT APPLICATION FOR RECONFIGURING A LOT AT 2 DAVID LOW
WAY, CASTAWAYS BEACH 3
2 PLANNING & ENVIRONMENT COURT APPEAL NO. D30 OF 2018 -
NEGOTIATED DECISION NOTICE FOR RECONFIGURING A LOT AT 29 & 35A
TAIT ST & 30 EAGLE DVE, TEWANTIN 6
3 RAL17/0504 DEVELOPMENT APPLICATION FOR RECONFIGURING A LOT (1
LOT INTO 4 LOTS) AT 135 LAKE WEYBA DRIVE, NOOSAVILLE 9
4 COMMUNITY BUSHLAND CARE OPERATIONAL GUIDELINES 22
CLOSED SESSION -
Page 2 of 38
Section 3
PLANNING & ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA 10 APRIL 2018
REPORTS FOR CONSIDERATION OF THE COMMITTEE
1 PLANNING & ENVIRONMENT COURT APPEAL NO. 456/2018 - REFUSAL OF
DEVELOPMENT APPLICATION FOR RECONFIGURING A LOT AT 2 DAVID LOW WAY,
CASTAWAYS BEACH
DOCUMENT INFORM AT ION
Author Manager Development Assessment, Kerri Coyle
Environment & Sustainable Development Department
Index ECM/ Application / RAL17/0501 / Case/ Kenlynn Pty Ltd
Attachments Nil
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Not applicable.
RECOMMENDATION
That Council note the report by the Manager Development Assessment to the Planning &
Environment Committee Meeting dated 10 April 2018 regarding Planning & Environment Court
Appeal No. 456/2018 and agree to defend the appeal.
REPORT
A report on this application to subdivide 1 lot into 6 residential lots and create an access
easement at 2 David Low Way, Castaways Beach was considered by Council at its Ordinary
Meeting on 18 January 2018.
Council at its Ordinary Meeting on 18 January 2018 resolved to refuse the application for the
following reasons:
1. The proposed development is contrary to the Overall and Specific Outcomes of the Eastern
Beaches Locality Code of the Noosa Plan. The development proposes significant clearing
that is contrary to the Locality Code which requires protection of the vegetated character
and views from the David Low Way and protection of native vegetation.
2. The proposed development is contrary to the Biodiversity code as it involves clearing of
vegetation that is mapped as Environmental Protection and Riparian vegetation under the
Noosa Plan.
3. The proposed development will result in unacceptable impacts on the visual amenity and
character of the area.
4. The applicant has not demonstrated that a compliant, safe access is able to be provided to
the site in accordance with required standards. To achieve a safe access significant
clearing of vegetation and earthworks in the road reserve is also likely to be required.
5. The proposal is an overdevelopment of the site with the resultant development form
detrimentally affecting the environmental and amenity values of the site.
6. The proposed development represents a poor planning outcome for the site, with the
subdivision layout failing to provide street frontage for the lots and an excessive number of
lots with access via an easement. The proposed access arrangements are likely to result
in ongoing management and maintenance issues for future residents of these lots.
Page 3 of 38
Section 4
PLANNING & ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA 10 APRIL 2018
The applicant has subsequently appealed the decision seeking that the application be approved
subject to reasonable and relevant conditions.
It is in order for Council to defend the appeal and the recommendation is worded accordingly.
Previous Council Consideration
Ordinary Meeting, 18 January 2018, Item 3, Page 4
That Council note the report by the Development Planner to the General Committee Meeting
dated 15 January 2018 regarding Application RAL17/0501 for a Development Permit for
Reconfiguring a Lot – (1 into 6 residential lots), situated at 2 David Low Way, Castaways Beach
and:
A. Refuse the application for the following reasons:
1. The proposed development is contrary to the Overall and Specific Outcomes of the
Eastern Beaches Locality Code of the Noosa Plan. The development proposes
significant clearing that is contrary to the Locality Code which requires protection of
the vegetated character and views from the David Low Way and protection of native
vegetation.
2. The proposed development is contrary to the Biodiversity code as it involves clearing
of vegetation that is mapped as Environmental Protection and Riparian vegetation
under the Noosa Plan.
3. The proposed development will result in unacceptable impacts on the visual amenity
and character of the area.
4. The applicant has not demonstrated that a compliant, safe access is able to be
provided to the site in accordance with required standards. To achieve a safe access
significant clearing of vegetation and earthworks in the road reserve is also likely to
be required.
5. The proposal is an overdevelopment of the site with the resultant development form
detrimentally affecting the environmental and amenity values of the site.
6. The proposed development represents a poor planning outcome for the site, with the
subdivision layout failing to provide street frontage for the lots and an excessive
number of lots with access via an easement. The proposed access arrangements
are likely to result in ongoing management and maintenance issues for future
residents of these lots.
B. Advise the utility service providers that there is significant vegetation within the road
reserve adjacent 2 David Low Way, Castaways Beach that requires detailed assessment
prior to installation of any services to minimise potential impacts on this vegetation.
C. Note the report is provided in accordance with Section 63(5) of the Planning Act 2016.
Finance & Risk
It is premature to advise on the likely prospects for the appeal at this stage. There will be
significant costs in defending the appeal, with experts required in planning, ecology, bushfire and
traffic.
Page 4 of 38
Section 5
PLANNING & ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA 10 APRIL 2018
Consultation
External Consultation - Community & Stakeholder
Wakefield Sykes - Solicitor
Internal Consultation
Nil
Departments/Sections Consulted:
Chief Executive Officer Community Services Corporate Services
Executive Officer Community Development Financial Services
Executive Support Community Facilities ICT
Libraries & Galleries Procurement & Fleet
Local Laws Property
Waste & Environmental Health Revenue Services
Executive Services x Environment & Sustainable Development Infrastructure Services
Community Engagement Building & Plumbing Services Asset Management
Customer Service x Development Assessment Buildings and Facilities
Governance Economic Development Civil Operations
People and Culture Environmental Services Disaster Management
Strategic Land Use Planning Infrastructure Planning,
Design and Delivery
Page 5 of 38
Section 6
PLANNING & ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA 10 APRIL 2018
2 PLANNING & ENVIRONMENT COURT APPEAL NO. D30 OF 2018 - NEGOTIATED
DECISION NOTICE FOR RECONFIGURING A LOT AT 29 & 35A TAIT ST & 30 EAGLE
DVE, TEWANTIN
DOCUMENT INFORM AT ION
Author Manager Development Assessment, Kerri Coyle
Environment & Sustainable Development Department
Index ECM/ Application / REC17/0011 / Case/ Eaglerise Developments Pty Ltd
Attachments Nil
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Not applicable.
RECOMMENDATION
That Council note the report by the Manager Development Assessment to the Planning &
Environment Committee Meeting dated 10 April 2018 regarding Planning & Environment Court
Appeal No. D30 of 2018 and agree to defend the appeal.
REPORT
An application for a Development Permit to Reconfigure a Lot for 2 lots into 21 lots in Tewantin
was approved by Council at its Ordinary Meeting on 16 November 2017. The applicant proposed
to undertake the subdivision in 2 stages, with the first stage creating 10 lots and the second
stage an additional 11 lots. Part of the development included the creation of a stormwater
easement over 29 Tait Street and the construction of a detention basin in 14 Eagle Drive to
manage stormwater from the development. The application was required to follow a code
assessment process and so was not required to be publicly notified.
The applicant suspended the appeal period on 4 December 2017 and made representations on
20 December 2017 to the development approval conditions. The representations primarily
included a revised staging plan, sought to delete a condition requiring an alternative access for
lots 7 & 8 and a reduction to the infrastructure charges payable for the development.
The representations to the development approval were considered by Council at its Ordinary
Meeting on 15 February 2018 wherein Council agreed to amend conditions 2 and 15d and delete
condition 23b. Council refused to delete or amend conditions 3, 7, 13, 20, 21 and 22 and to offset
the infrastructure charges payable for the development. Conditions 3, 7, 13, 20, 21 and 22 state:
3. The north-eastern corner of proposed Lot 15 and the south-eastern corner of proposed Lot
12 must be truncated to provide a minimum 3.5m wide verge from the new kerb line. The
truncations must be created with 3 chords.
7. Access to proposed Lots 7 and 8 must be from the Road 86419 frontage only (northern
boundary) and the approved plans amended accordingly. The works must be undertaken in
accordance with an Operational Works approval and must be constructed prior to the
sealing of the survey plan. The works must include in particular:
a. a half road construction consisting of 3m wide seal, kerbing and channelling and
extending from the Tait Street formation for a distance of 40 metres from Tait Street
(western boundary of Lot 6) terminating in a temporary turnaround;
b. the intersection with Tait Street;
Page 6 of 38
Section 7
PLANNING & ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA 10 APRIL 2018
c. the northern half of the new road constructed with a gravel formation;
d. the realignment of the existing vehicle track to join to the end of the southern half of
the new road;
e. the removal of the redundant sections of the existing vehicle track and the areas
turfed or grass seeded;
f. the construction of the vehicle access to proposed Lots 7 and 8.
13. Existing native trees on the site and in the road verge must be retained in accordance with
an Arborist Report for the development and referenced in a Development Permit for
Operational Works. The existing native trees to be retained must be located clear of
proposed services, not present a nuisance to neighbouring properties and generally
suitable for the proposed location.
20. A residential driveway must be constructed to each lot. The works must be undertaken in
accordance with an Operational Works approval.
21. The access driveways to service Lots 20 and 21 must extend for the full length of the
access handle. The works must be undertaken in accordance with an Operational Works
approval.
22. Vehicle access to Lots 7 & 8 are limited to the Road 86419 frontage only (northern
boundary). A clause must be included in the contract of sale for Lots 7 & 8 which prohibits
vehicle access being taken from Eagle Drive.
The applicant has subsequently appealed the decision seeking that conditions 3, 7, 13, 20, 21
and 22 conditions either be amended or deleted. The applicant has also appealed the
Infrastructure Charges and Council’s refusal to offset/refund these charges against the required
stormwater management devices for the development.
It is in order for Council to defend the appeal and the recommendation is worded accordingly.
Previous Council Consideration
Ordinary Meeting, 15 February 2018, Item 2, Page 5
That Council note the report by the Manager Development Assessment to the Planning &
Environment Committee Meeting dated 6 February 2018 regarding representations to
development approval REC17/0011 for Reconfiguring a Lot situated at 29 Tait Street, Tewantin
and:
A. Agree to amend conditions 2 and 15d as follows:
2. Development undertaken in accordance with this approval must generally comply
with the approved plans of development. The approved plans are listed in the
following table unless otherwise amended by these conditions.
Plan No. Rev. Plan/Document Name Date
1702 B Eagle Drive – Tewantin 12.12.2017
Detailed Lot Layout prepared by Haynes
Consulting Engineers
15. The development site must be landscaped. The works must be undertaken in
accordance with an Operational Works approval and the Noosa Plan for that specific
area and must include in particular:
a. Provision of 1 native street tree within the road reserve for every 8 metres of
new road.
b. 100mm deep mulching and landscaping to any batter within road reserves that
exceed 1 in 4 slope (25%).
Page 7 of 38
Section 8
PLANNING & ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA 10 APRIL 2018
c. Turf and garden beds to road reserve, including retained trees.
d. Retaining walls within the bio-basin must be constructed or permanently faced
with grouted rock or materials which provide for a natural appearance such as
sandstone, bluestone, granite or the like.
e. Removal of all weeds species listed in the following standards and legislation.
i. 3.4.1. declared plants under the Land Protection (Pest and Stock Route
Management) Act 2002 and sub-ordinate Regulation 2003.
ii. 3.4.2. The Noosa Local Government Area Pest Management Plan 2015-
2019.
B. Agree to delete condition 23b.
C. Refuse to delete or amend conditions 3, 7, 13, 20, 21 and 22 and offset the infrastructure
charges payable for the development.
Finance & Risk
It is premature to advise on the likely prospects for the appeal at this stage. There will be costs
in defending the appeal should this matter proceed to trial.
Consultation
External Consultation - Community & Stakeholder
Wakefield Sykes - Solicitor
Internal Consultation
Nil
Departments/Sections Consulted:
Chief Executive Officer Community Services Corporate Services
Executive Officer Community Development Financial Services
Executive Support Community Facilities ICT
Libraries & Galleries Procurement & Fleet
Local Laws Property
Waste & Environmental Health Revenue Services
Executive Services x Environment & Sustainable Development Infrastructure Services
Community Engagement Building & Plumbing Services Asset Management
Customer Service x Development Assessment Buildings and Facilities
Governance Economic Development Civil Operations
People and Culture Environmental Services Disaster Management
Strategic Land Use Planning Infrastructure Planning,
Design and Delivery
Page 8 of 38
Section 9
PLANNING & ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA 10 APRIL 2018
3 RAL17/0504 DEVELOPMENT APPLICATION FOR RECONFIGURING A LOT (1 LOT
INTO 4 LOTS) AT 135 LAKE WEYBA DRIVE, NOOSAVILLE
DOCUMENT INFORM AT ION
Author Development Planner, Wilhelm Koschade
Environment and Sustainable Development Department
Index ECM / Application / RAL17/0504
Attachments 1. Proposal Plans
2. Flood Hazard Map
APPLICATION DETAILS
Applicant Washington Andres Gabarrin & Tamara Olivia Gabarrin
Proposal Reconfiguring of a Lot (1 Lot into 4 Lots)
Properly Made Date 4 September 2017
Information Request Date 3 October 2017
Information Response Date 13 December 2017
Decision Due Date 20 April 2018
Number of Submissions Not Applicable
PROPERTY DETAILS
Property Address 135 Lake Weyba Dr NOOSAVILLE QLD 4566
RP Description Lot 1 RP 36729
Land Area 20,230 Square Metres
Existing Use of Land Detached Dwelling
STATUTORY DETAILS
SEQRP Designation Urban Footprint
Locality Noosaville Locality
Zone Detached Housing Zone & Open Space Conservation
Overlays Biodiversity Overlay (Environment Protection)
Natural Hazards (Bushfire, Acid Sulfate Soils & Flood Hazard)
Assessment Type Code
Page 9 of 38
Section 10
PLANNING & ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA 10 APRIL 2018
RECOMMENDATION
That Council note the report by the Development Planner to the Planning & Environment
Committee Meeting dated 10 April 2018 regarding Application No. RAL17/0504 for a
Development Permit for Reconfiguring of a Lot (1 Lot into 4 Lots) situated at 135 Lake Weyba Dr
Noosaville and:
A. Refuse the application for the following reasons:
1. The proposed development does not demonstrate compliance with the Natural
Hazards Overlay Code as it comprises the safety of people and property from the
site’s residual flood and bushfire risks.
2. The proposed development is contrary to the Natural Hazards Overlay Code and
Reconfiguring a Lot Code as the proposed lots are located within a flood hazard area
and the proposal seeks to fill the site to in an attempt to make it suitable for the
development.
3. There is no effective evacuation route that remains passible, with sufficient flood
warning time, to enable people to progressively evacuate from the site or an area that
allows for safe congregation and refuge during a probable maximum flood.
4. The proposed development is likely to further burden disaster management response
and capacity during flood events.
5. The proposed lots are located on land that is subject to bushfire hazard and the
proposed development relies on inappropriate bushfire mitigation measures to
maintain the safety of people and property.
6. The proposed development is contrary to the Biodiversity Overlay Code as the
proposal has the potential to impact on the koala habitat values of the site including
the habitat values of the wetland and the species assemblages it supports.
B. Note the report is provided in accordance with Section 63(5) of the Planning Act 2016.
REPORT
1. PROPOSAL
This application seeks approval to Reconfigure a Lot to create 1 in to 4 residential lots at 135
Lake Weyba Drive, Noosaville. A proposal plan is provided in Attachment 1. The reconfiguration
proposes lot sizes and dimensions in accordance with Table 1 with Lots 1 – 3 to have a defined
building envelope. The existing dwelling will be contained wholly within proposed Lot 4 with no
building envelope proposed for this lot.
Table 1 – Proposed Lot Size & Dimensions
Lot Number Total Area Frontage Building Envelope
Lot 1 1.321 ha 10.06m (Sail Street) 459m2
Lot 2 2,324m2 10.06m (Sail Street) 342m2
Lot 3 1,211m2 20m (Lake Weyba Drive) 502m2
Lot 4 3,483m2 57.5m (Lake Weyba Drive) -
Page 10 of 38
Section 11
PLANNING & ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA 10 APRIL 2018
The site is subject to flood hazard and earthworks is proposed within Lots 1, 2 and 3 in order to
create individual pads above the defined flood level of 2.6m Australian Height Datum (AHD). The
existing ground level in the location of the proposed building envelopes ranges from 1.10m –
1.50m AHD so filling of approximately 1.1m - 1.5m is proposed to achieve building pads above
the defined flood level. Earthwork volumes comprise a total of 2,420m 3 fill, 1,920m3 of which will
be imported and 500m3 reused from a proposed cut onsite.
A split driveway is proposed off Sail Street to service Lots 1 and 2. Lots 3 and 4 will have direct
access off Lake Weyba Drive.
As depicted in Figure 1 below, the site has a split zoning comprising Detached Housing to the
east and Open Space Conservation to the west. No development including new boundaries are
proposed to intersect land within the Open Space Conservation Zone.
Figure 1 – Zoning designation
2. SITE DETAILS
2.1. Background
On 10 February 2017, Council attended a pre-lodgement meeting regarding the subject site
(PLM17/0004) and provided advice concerning a proposal to Reconfigure a Lot (1 Lot into 7
Lots). Council officers advised that the subject site is significantly constrained being located
within a Bushfire and Flood Hazard Area. The proposed development would result in an increase
of people and property on land prone to natural hazards.
Officers advised that given the flooding and bushfire constraints over the site, Council would be
unlikely to support any subdivision of the lot.
It was further advised that the proposal to import fill to create residential pads above the defined
flood level is not an appropriate solution to overcome the flood constraints given the likely off site
impacts.
2.2. Site Description
The site has an area of 2.021ha with 81m frontage to Lake Weyba Drive and 20.5m frontage to
Sail Street. The land is low lying and ranges in elevation from RL .5m – 1.75m. Fill has previously
been imported to the site where a raised pad was created in the north-eastern portion of
proposed Lot 1 and around the existing dwelling on proposed Lot 4.
The site is heavily vegetated with a portion of the lot mapped for Environmental Protection under
the Biodiversity Overlay. Vegetation predominately comprises melaleuca with scattered
eucalyptus trees.
Page 11 of 38
Section 12
PLANNING & ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA 10 APRIL 2018
Existing development consists of a single residential detached dwelling and ancillary structures.
A locality plan is provided below in Figure 2.
Figure 2 – Locality plan
2.3. Surrounding Land Uses
Residential land with established detached dwellings abut the site to the north and south.
National Park is located directly to the west. Land uses further north and south along Lake
Weyba Drive comprise detached dwellings on residential lots.
3. ASSESSMENT
3.1. Instruments for Statutory Assessment
Under the Planning Act 2016 the application must be assessed against each of the following
statutory planning instruments to the extent they are relevant to the development:
State Planning Policy;
South East Queensland Regional Plan;
Planning Regulation 2017; and
The Noosa Plan.
3.2. State and Other Statutory Instruments
State Planning Policy
The Noosa Plan is generally consistent with the State Planning Policy July 2017 (SPP) and the
SPP raises no further issues relevant to the proposed development.
South East Queensland (SEQ) Regional Plan
The site is located within the Urban Footprint area of the SEQ Regional Plan. The proposal is
consistent with the regional policies of the SEQ Regional Plan.
Page 12 of 38
Section 13
PLANNING & ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA 10 APRIL 2018
Planning Regulation 2017
The following assessment benchmarks from the Planning Regulation 2017 apply to the
application:
Koala Habitat Area
SEQ Development Area
The proposal is for urban activity within the Urban Footprint and is consistent with the
assessment benchmarks contained in the Planning Regulation 2017 for the SEQ Development
Area.
Koala Habitat
As shown in Figure 3 below, a large portion of the site is identified as Koala Assessable
Development Area under the South East Queensland State Planning Regulatory Provisions. A
portion of the lot is mapped as Koala Habitat Area which includes Remanent Habitat and Habitat
Regrowth.
The Planning Regulation 2017 provides assessment benchmarks for development in Koala
habitat areas including requirements to minimise the impact on Koala habitat. Depending on the
development type and Koala habitat type, requirements may include:
site design that provides safe koala movement opportunities appropriate to the
development type and habitat connectivity values of the site;
avoiding, minimising or providing an offset for the clearing of non-juvenile koala habitat
trees;
construction phases that do not increase the risk of death or injury to koalas;
clearing of native vegetation, undertaken as sequential clearing; and
clearing of Koala habitat trees, undertaken in the presence of a Koala spotter.
Figure 3 – Koala Habitat Area
Page 13 of 38
Section 14
PLANNING & ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA 10 APRIL 2018
The application proposes clearing of vegetation wholly within the Habitat Regrowth Area to
accommodate the proposed earthworks and house pad areas. No further clearing is proposed to
provide bushfire buffers or setbacks to the proposed building envelopes.
The applicant has provided a Flora & Fauna survey and assessment of the habitat values on site.
An assessment regarding the clearing of koala habitat trees on each proposed lot is summarised
in Table 2 below.
Table 2 – Koala Habitat Trees to be cleared
Lot Koala Habitat Trees (to be Summary:
cleared)
1 2 x Forest red gum The house pad will occur on partly cleared and partly
3 x paperbarked tea tree vegetated land with a combination of cultivated plants, weeds
and native species including Melaleuca quinquenervia and
Casuarina glauca. Five koala habitat trees will be cleared.
2 3 x paperbarked tea tree The house pad will occur in a grassy clearing with planted fruit
trees, weed trees and native trees (Bunya pine and Silky oak),
with introduced grass and vines. Three koala habitat trees
(Melaleuca quinquernervia) will be cleared for the house pad
works on this lot.
3 1 x Forest red gum The proposed house pad is mostly cleared land that contains
4 x paperbarked tea tree one large remnant Eucalyptus tereticornis with a dbh of
1,100mm – a koala food tree of significant size and age but
adjacent to Lake Weyba Drive. There are four Melaleuca trees
and fruits trees with ornamental plants in this area.
The report provides a summary of the likely impact of the proposed development and ecological
significance of the site:
“The site assessment determined that the vegetation within the proposed extent of works is
highly modified consisting of cleared areas and cultivated garden areas, with scattered
native remnant trees occurring in association with clusters of native regrowth.
By locating the proposed lots in the north-eastern corner of the site, clearing requirements
are minimised and the impacts to the Medium Value Bushland on site is minimised. The
non-juvenile koala habitat trees requiring removal are located on the building envelope
areas and are outside the mapped koala habitat (MSES) areas. Although mapped as Koala
Habitat, the site is considered suboptimal habitat for koalas due to the majority of
vegetation being paperbarked tea tree (Melaleuca quinquenervia) and the site being low
lying.
Generally the development footprint to create the building envelopes for each new lot is
located in existing cleared areas with scattered trees or clumps of trees requiring clearing.
Overall the development works i.e. earthworks, will impact 3,500m2 of area over the new
proposed lots. This will require clearing of weeds, fruit trees, weed trees and regrowth
Melaleuca woodland. The native vegetation within the impact areas is in clumps
surrounded by slashed areas, with an infestation of Singapore Daisy as understorey.”
In order to minimise the impact on koala habitat, the applicant proposes to provide landscaping
and rehabilitation plans as part of a subsequent Operational Works application to undertake the
earthworks. The rehabilitation plan will provide details of the planting of replacement koala
habitat trees (three for each tree removed) on each lot outside the proposed building envelope
areas.
Page 14 of 38
Section 15
PLANNING & ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA 10 APRIL 2018
3.3. Statutory Instruments – Planning Scheme
Locality Provisions
The subject site is located in the Noosaville Locality and is zoned Detached Housing & Open
Space Conservation. The proposed development is identified as code assessable development
and is required to follow a code assessable application process, assessable against the following
codes:
Noosaville Locality Code;
Reconfiguring a Lot Code;
Engineering Works Code;
Landscaping Code;
Biodiversity Overlay Code (Environmental Protection Ares); and
Natural Hazards Overlay Code (Bushfire Hazard & Flood Hazard).
Natural Hazards Overlay Code
The application has been assessed against applicable Overlay Codes including the Natural
Hazards Overlay Code (Bushfire and Flood Hazard) and the Biodiversity Overlay Code
(Environmental Protection). The pertinent issues arising out of the assessment against the codes
are discussed below:
Flood Hazard
Where development is located within areas at risk from natural hazards, the Overall Outcomes of
the Natural Hazard Overlay Code seek for “…development to be compatible with the hazard so
as not to place people and property at risk”. In addition, development is required to “…support
and not unduly burden disaster management response or recovery capacity and capabilities”.
As shown in Attachment 2, the site is mapped as being affected by flood hazard under The
Noosa Plan’s natural hazard overlay mapping. The application seeks approval to increase the
number of lots thereby increasing the number of people and property in a flood hazard area. The
proposed development intends to achieve flood immunity by modifying the landform through the
introduction of fill on land below the 1% Annual Exceedance Probability (AEP) level. The fill is
proposed to create house pads above the defined flood level of 2.6m AHD with the applicant
suggesting that the extent of fill provides a sufficient area above the defined flood level to
accommodate the intended future residential use.
The applicant has provided a flood report which suggests that there is sufficient time available for
residents to self-evacuate as flood levels can take from 1-2 days to peak. The report suggests
that “the influence of the four large lakes and relative effects of rainfall and storm surge flooding,
flooding behaviour along the Noosa River, especially in its lower reaches is characterised
by….the Noosa River floodplain being flooded to relatively low depths by generally slow moving
floodwaters”.
An external review of the flood report was provided by Hydrology and Water Management
Consulting for Council. The review provided the following information regarding emergency
access:
“Timing of flood inundating in the lower Noosa River area is difficult to predict with any
certainty because it is dependent upon both catchment runoff and tidal conditions. Natural
floods are highly variable, dynamic and difficult to predict.
It is quite possible that residents will chose to stay in their homes based on the belief that
they will be safe. If the flooding situation then escalates (e.g. a moderate flood forecast
escalates to a large flood forecast), it is quite possible that floodwaters will overtop Lake
Weyba Road before there is time to evacuate.
Page 15 of 38
Section 16
PLANNING & ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA 10 APRIL 2018
The minimum road level for Lake Weyba Drive access is approximately 1.6 m AHD. Based
on Council’s DFE flood modelling, it is predicted to take flood waters less than 2.5 hours to
rise from 1.3 m AHD up to 1.6 m AHD.”
Based on the above, HWMC believe that there is potential for residents to unwittingly
become isolated during floods. This presents isolation risks to residents plus the potential
for an increase demand on emergency services. This risk may be somewhat mitigated by
conditioning the proposed lots to provide an emergency refuge shelter above the Probably
Maximum Flood.”
The Natural Hazards Overlay Code requires development to “…have an effective evacuation
route that remains passable, with sufficient warning time, to enable people to progressively
evacuate to safe areas above the probable maximum flood”. The development remains contrary
to the code as it does not provide an evacuation route that is passable in a flood event. The site
is only accessible via Lake Weyba Drive which is subject to inundation and is not driveable
during a flood event. Council’s external hydrologist has indicated that in a peak event, Lake
Weyba Drive can be inundated to a depth of .7m.
The proposal to introduce fill and modify the landform in order to subdivide land is also contrary
to The Noosa Plan’s Natural Hazards Overlay Code where “…flood immunity for development
areas is not achieved by filling land below the 1% AEP (1:100 year ARI) flood level”.
Furthermore, the Reconfiguring a Lot Code requires development to “…respond to the distinctive
landscape character of the site by using the natural features of the site”. The code specifically
requires that development integrate with the natural landform rather than modify the land to suit
the development. Therefore the proposal to achieve flood immunity by filling is contrary to both
these codes.
Although a large area is created above the defined flood level, concern is raised regarding a
flood event which may exceed a 1% AEP, compromising the safety of people and property. The
development may burden disaster management response and recovery capacity by increasing
the number of people at risk to the natural hazard.
The proposed development does not demonstrate compliance with the Specific and Overall
Outcomes of the Natural Hazards Overlay Code as it increases the number of people at risk from
flooding by filling land in a flood hazard area. The proposed development is not resilient to the
natural hazard and unduly burdens disaster management response and capacity.
Bushfire Hazard
The subject site is located within a Bushfire Hazard Area with the south-western portion included
in a ‘High Potential Bushfire Intensity’ and a majority of the lot to the east mapped as ‘Potential
Impact Buffer’. An Impact Buffer typically includes all land within a 100m radius of any hazardous
vegetation. Figure 4 below shows the extent of the hazard mapping over the site.
Page 16 of 38
Section 17
PLANNING & ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA 10 APRIL 2018
Figure 4 – Bushfire hazard over subject site
The Natural Hazard Overlay Code does not support the creation of additional lots on land which
is subject to fire hazard and where the safety of people and property cannot be suitably
maintained.
The applicant has submitted a Bushfire Hazard Assessment in order to determine the bushfire
risk to each proposed lot. With regards to aspect, the report determines land north and east of
the site has a low potential bushfire hazard while land to the south and west generally comprising
fragmented Melaleuca forest as a high potential bushfire hazard.
The report concludes by providing a bushfire attack level assessment which determines the
“…construction standard of buildings in bushfire prone areas. The construction standards are
intended to improve the performance of buildings subject to burning debris, radiant heat and
flame contact.”
The bushfire assessment recommends a Bushfire Attack Level (BAL) rating for any future
development on the 3 additional lots which include: Lot 1 - BAL 19, Lot 2 – BAL 29 and Lot 3 –
BAL 12.5.
It is considered that the bushfire assessment has not addressed the Specific and Overall
Outcomes of the Natural Hazards Overlay Code. The report fails to identify suitable locations on
the site least affected by the bushfire hazard and does not provide acceptable fire mitigation
methods which are adequate for the bushfire threat of each individual site.
The proposed development is considered incompatible with the bushfire hazard and places
people and property at risk. The proposed development relies solely on BAL ratings for any
future buildings and does not provide an appropriate response or solution to the threat such as
appropriate bushfire buffers or setbacks to hazardous vegetation. It is considered that the
development is not resilient to the bushfire hazard and increases the potential risks of the natural
hazard to people and property.
Page 17 of 38
Section 18
PLANNING & ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA 10 APRIL 2018
Biodiversity
The Biodiversity Overlay Code of the Noosa Plan seeks to protect Koala habitat areas. The site
contains primary and secondary koala habitat trees (Blue gums and Paperbark respectively) and
proposal will involve clearing primary and secondary koala habitat trees to facilitate the
development. The use of the site for residential development is highly likely to diminish the koala
habitat values of the site and does not improve the habitat values. Where habitat values are
retained on the site, the increase intensity of the use of the site has the potential to impact on the
koala habitat values of the site and the adjacent National Park.
The provision of offset plantings to compensate for the loss of koala habitat has the potential to
increase the bushfire hazard risk to the proposed house site areas and does not provide a
suitable gain in overall area for koala habitat.
Wetlands
Wetlands have been identified as occurring in the south west corner of the site and contained
habitat for threatened frog species and crayfish. The remnant paperbark wetland in this area is
sensitive to changes in hydrology, surface run off, nutrient inputs, light penetration and changes
to water chemistry. Increasing the uses in the buffer adjacent to the wetland is highly likely to
negatively impact on the habitat values of the wetland and the species assemblages it supports
due to “edge effects such as nutrient inputs, light penetration, domestic animals, disturbance and
weed incursion.
Land Use & Works Provisions
The application has been assessed against the applicable codes. The pertinent issues arising out
of the assessment against the codes are discussed below:
Earthworks Code
In order to overcome the flood hazard over the site, the application proposes to introduce fill to
create house pads above the defined flood level.
Specific Outcome SO2 of the Earthworks Code seeks to ensure any change to the level of land
does not have an adverse flooding impact on the flooding and drainage characteristics off-site.
The matter was raised to the applicant during the Information Request period. The applicant
provided an assessment of the potential impact relating to imported fill and submits the following:
“Approximately 1749m3 of fill is required between the existing levels and the defined flood
level to establish the house pad areas. The impacts on the surrounding flood levels as a
result of this fill is partially offset by the cut within the site below the defined flood level of
approx. 500m3, leaving a total of 1249m3 of fill within the floodplain that has not been offset.
This volume displaces flood waters in this area which has the potential to raise flood levels
however as this volume is applied over the local flood plain area the impacts are virtually
insignificant. Conservatively the area of the surrounding floodplain could be defined as the
area upstream of the Eenie Creek Road bridge over Weyba Creek. Arguably this could
include the whole of Lake Weyba, however for this exercise this has been excluded.
The attached plan shows that the floodplain in this area is over 390 Hectares. Once the
displaced volume is applied over this area the increase in flood level that results is less
than 0.32mm.”
Page 18 of 38
Section 19
PLANNING & ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA 10 APRIL 2018
4. CONSULTATION
4.1. Referral Agencies
The application was referred to the following Referral Agencies:
Department of Infrastructure, Local Government and Planning (SARA)
The Department is a referral agency for the purpose of Reconfiguring a Lot in a Coastal
Management District.
The Department responded on 29 January 2018 advising that there is no objection to the
proposed Reconfiguring of a Lot.
4.2. Other Referrals
The application was forwarded to the following internal Council officers:
Engineering Officer, Development Assessment; and
Environment Officer, Development Assessment.
5. CONCLUSION & REASONS FOR DECISION
Approval is sought to Reconfigure a Lot to create 3 additional (1 Lot into 4 Lots) residential lots at
135 Lake Weyba Drive, Noosaville. The reconfiguration proposes large detached house lots with
a defined building envelope for Lots 1 – 3 while Lot 4 intends to accommodate the existing
dwelling onsite.
The site is subject to The Noosa Plan’s flood hazard overlay. In order to overcome the flood
hazard over the site the application proposes earthworks within Lots 1, 2 and 3 to create
individual pads above the defined flood level of 2.6m AHD. The applicant suggests the pads
provide flood immunity and an area large enough to accommodate the future residential use. The
applicant suggests that future residents have sufficient warning time to self-evacuate given the
flood characteristics of the area.
The proposed development does not demonstrate compliance with the Specific and Overall
Outcomes of the Natural Hazards Overlay Code as it increases the number of people at risk from
flooding by filling land in a flood hazard area. The proposed development is not resilient to the
natural hazard and no reasonable evacuation route has been provided during a flood event.
Locating additional residents in an area prone to flooding burdens disaster management
response and capacity.
In addition to flooding, the subject site is located within a bushfire hazard area. It is considered
that the bushfire assessment does not address the Specific and Overall Outcomes of the Natural
Hazards Overlay Code. The application does not identify suitable locations on the site least
affected by the bushfire hazard or acceptable fire mitigation methods.
Overall the development is contrary to the Natural Hazards Overlay Code and the Reconfiguring
a Lot Code and is not an appropriate development for the site given the site’s flood and bushfire
risks.
Departments/Sections Consulted:
Chief Executive Officer Community Services Corporate Services
Executive Officer Community Development Financial Services
Executive Support Community Facilities ICT
Libraries & Galleries Procurement & Fleet
Local Laws Property
Waste & Environmental Health Revenue Services
Executive Services X Environment & Sustainable Development Infrastructure Services
Community Engagement Building & Plumbing Services Asset Management
Customer Service X Development Assessment Buildings and Facilities
Governance Economic Development Civil Operations
People and Culture Environmental Services Disaster Management
Strategic Land Use Planning Infrastructure Planning,
Design and Delivery
Page 19 of 38
Section 20
Page 20 of 38
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Page 21 of 38
Attachment 2
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Page 21 of 38Section 22
PLANNING & ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA 10 APRIL 2018
4 COMMUNITY BUSHLAND CARE OPERATIONAL GUIDELINES
DOCUMENT INFORM AT ION
Author Environmental Services Manager, Craig Doolan
Environment & Sustainable Development Department
Index ECM/ Subject/ Conservation Covenants/ Land Conservation/Regeneration
Attachment 1. Council and Community Bushland Care Partnership Operational
Guidelines (Draft)
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Not applicable.
RECOMMENDATION
That Council note the report by the Manager Environmental Services to the Planning &
Environment Committee Meeting dated 10 April 2018 and approve the implementation of the
Council and Community Bushland Care Partnership Operational Guidelines (provided at
Attachment 1 to the report).
REPORT
1. Background
The Community Bushland Care program brings together the first two themes of the Noosa
Corporate Plan, ‘The Noosa Environment’ and the ‘The Noosa Community’, and has been a key
Council-community partnership since 2002.
Over this time there has been a range of levels of service and approaches in how this program
was managed and serviced. Prior to de-amalgamation, the Community Bushland Care program
was serviced by an external contractor at an annual cost of approximately $100,000 per year,
plus a Council staff member overseeing this contract (as well as other private landholder
conservation programs). This provided for a high level of service for this program and to
community bushcare volunteers. This contract was not renewed after de-amalgamation,
significantly changing the levels of service and support of this program and bushcare groups.
The position of Community Partnerships Officer was created to support the strategic transition
from this period, to a properly-resourced, sustainable, Community Bushland Care program, that
met the needs of Council and the community. The Council and Community Bushland Care
Partnership Operational Guidelines have now been developed to clearly identify the new
processes and service levels of the program.
2. Proposed service levels for Community Bushland Care program
Key elements of the proposed Council and Community Bushland Care Partnership Operational
Guidelines include:
All Community Bushland Care groups will produce an annual work plan, the preparation of
which is supported by Council staff, that will detail their work program and the resources
required. Council officers will review resourcing requirements across the program and
approve the plan.
Page 22 of 38
Section 23
PLANNING & ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA 10 APRIL 2018
All Community Bushland Care groups will have a minimum of 2 and a maximum of 4
working bee visits per year from the Community Bushland Care Council staff. This will
ensure oversight of the program, guidance as required for volunteers, and is considered a
sustainable level of attendance for the program. A couple of groups have shared concerns
over Council not attending all working bees, Council staff will work with these groups to
transition to a sustainable model.
Any volunteers undertaking spraying of herbicide must hold an ACDC licence, be approved
by Council to undertake spraying work, and be working to an approved annual work plan.
Volunteers will work with Council prior to applying for external grants to ensure work can be
properly resourced and maintained.
Applications for new groups and/or sites will depend on available resources and level of
support required. There is very little scope for expansion of the program without resourcing
above what is already being sought in the 2018/19 budget.
The guidelines reflect and formalise many practises already occurring within the program. As
outlined above, they do embed some shifts that have been occurring across the program over
the past 18 months, particularly the proposed reduction in attendance at all working bees. It is
considered that the guidelines and associated levels of service provide a sustainable model with
more of a focus on the Council-community partnership, rather than dependence. By moving
gradually towards this model, the Community Partnerships Officer has been able to bring groups
along, with all current volunteer team leaders engaging in the development of the guidelines.
Previous Council Consideration
The Council and Community Bushland Care Partnership Operational Guidelines were presented
and discussed at a Councillor Workshop on 15 February 2018. Councillors were invited to
provide any further feedback on the guidelines in the week following. No further feedback was
received.
Finance
The full implementation of the Council and Community Bushland Care Partnership Operational
Guidelines requires the temporary extra resource allocated this financial year to continue, in
order for the level of service and working bee attendance, as per this guideline, to be met.
This has been presented as a new initiative for Council’s consideration in the 2018/19 budget
process.
The proposed budget initiative is in the amount of $35,000, and provides for an extra 0.5 full-time
equivalent position to deliver services to the volunteers of the Bushland Care Program. This is at
the same level of what has been occurring for the past 6-9 months. If the funds are not allocated
in the 2018/19 budget, a further review of service levels, and the guidelines, will need to be
undertaken.
Risks & Opportunities
The changes to service levels over the last few years has not been without challenges. The
Community Partnerships Officer has been able to work closely with our Community Bushland
Care Groups and arrive at a ‘middle point’ where Council can meet the needs of the groups in a
more sustainable way.
The Community Bushland Care program brings together the first two themes of the Noosa
Corporate Plan, ‘The Noosa Environment’ and the ‘The Noosa Community’, and has been a key
Council-community partnership since 2002. These guidelines have been developed to maintain
this relationship and keep this program delivering on the Noosa Council’s Corporate Plan
themes.
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Consultation
External Consultation - Community & Stakeholder
All team leaders of Community Bushland Care groups have been consulted and the feedback
has been included into the draft that was provided to the Councillor workshop. There is broad
support for the guideline within the groups, except where otherwise noted in the report.
Queensland State Government have also been consulted to ensure compliance with State
guidelines with regard to ACDC licencing and Blue Card requirements.
Internal Consultation
Chief Executive Officer
Governance Advisor
Civil Operations staff, including Manager and Coordinators
Departments/Sections Consulted:
X Chief Executive Officer X Community Services Corporate Services
Executive Officer Community Development Financial Services
Executive Support Community Facilities ICT
Libraries & Galleries Procurement & Fleet
Local Laws Property
Waste & Environmental Health Revenue Services
Executive Services X Environment & Sustainable Development Infrastructure Services
Community Engagement Building & Plumbing Services Asset Management
Customer Service Development Assessment Buildings and Facilities
X Governance Economic Development X Civil Operations
People and Culture X Environmental Services Disaster Management
Strategic Land Use Planning Infrastructure Planning,
Design and Delivery
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Section 25
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Page 25 of 38
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PLANNING & ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA 10 APRIL 2018
Table of Contents
Council and Community Bushland Care — Operational Guidelines Page 1
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PLANNING & ENVIRONMENT COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA 10 APRIL 2018
1. Introduction
Noosa Shire Council is pleased to support the Community Bushland Care Program and our dedicated
network of community volunteers.
The Community Bushland Care program has been operating in Noosa Shire since 2002 and through
this program volunteers and local community organisations have made significant contributions to the
natural environment.
The program is a partnership arrangement between Council and community volunteers who find
reward contributing to positive change in their local bushland areas and aligns with the Corporate
goal: ‘Our environment is protected, enhanced and valued by the community’ and ‘Our community is
connected, safe and happy and able to meet their potential’.
The ‘Council and Community Bushland Care Partnership - Operational Guidelines’ provides a
framework for a program that has been established for many years in partnership with staff, volunteers
and community organisations.
Community Bushland Care volunteers continue to demonstrate commitment and enthusiasm in
achieving environmental outcomes and provide additional support and management of ecologically
significant bushland. This guideline outlines Council’s support, recognition and ongoing commitment
to this valued partnership.
2. Aims and Objectives
The principal aims of the volunteer Community Bushland Care Program are to involve local community
members in ecological restoration projects, instil community pride, foster community awareness and
improve environmental outcomes in Noosa’s locally ecologically significant bushland areas.
In doing this, Council aims to provide a fair and equitable standard of service to all Community
Bushland Care groups based on needs and available resources.
The volunteer Community Bushland Care Program’s objectives are to:
e Involve the wider community in ecological restoration, creation of resilient native flora and fauna
communities, habitats, linkages and corridors.
e Create a sense of place between local residents and their natural environment.
e Provide training to increase the skills and knowledge of volunteers to ensure best-practice
ecological restoration principles are utilised in all activities.
e Ensure volunteers undertake activities safely and in accordance with Council's objectives, policies
and procedures and legislative responsibilities.
e Provide volunteers with a program that provides appropriate levels of support and recognition of
volunteer’s efforts.
e Encourage community participation and action through education of conservation values and
management issues relating to the Noosa Shire.
Council and Community Bushland Care — Operational Guidelines Page 2
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3. Operations and Responsibilities
3.1. Communications
Communication between Council and volunteers is essential to understanding and achieving mutual
goals and fostering positive relationships. As a Community Bushland Care volunteer, your first point
of contact for bushcare matters in the 12-month Activity Plan is through the Volunteer Group
Coordinator who will liaise directly with their nominated Council Officer for advice where needed. For
matters outside of bushcare, a customer request should be raised through Customer Service to
ensure it is appropriately recorded and handled by the correct department.
Council will facilitate an annual workshop for Volunteer Group Coordinators for which an agenda will
be released prior and volunteers will be encouraged to contribute to the development and growth of
the program.
The Volunteer Group Coordinator is responsible to ensure all volunteer registrations and contact
details are up to date and advise their nominated Council Officer as any changes occur. Volunteer
Group Coordinators may request an updated list of their members at any time and are responsible to
disseminate information to their group members.
For more information on roles and responsibilities, please refer to Appendix 1.
3.2 Workplace Health and Safety
Council strives to be a ‘Zero Harm’ organisation, where people’s safety is the first priority and where
it is not acceptable to cause harm to anyone or the environment. Under Queensland Workplace Health
and Safety legislation, a volunteer is considered a worker and Council must ensure, so far as is
reasonably practicable, the health and safety of its workers. Every person working on Council land is
responsible for their safety and should also be aware of the safety of others.
Council will provide training to ensure the safety of all volunteers in the program:
e Annual WHS Induction specifically designed for all Community Bushland Care Program
volunteers (with Council staff or the Volunteer Group Coordinator)
e Annual First Aid training to two registered volunteers of each group
Volunteers should wear long trousers, sturdy boots and a hat for their own protection. Council will
provide volunteer groups with access to:
e first aid and snake bite kits
e gloves
e sunscreen
e insect repellent
e high visibility long-sleeved shirt or vest
e face masks
e eye protection.
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Volunteers are required to complete an Attendance and Risk Assessment form when on-site. The risk
assessment is required under the WHS Act and provides an opportunity to pause and prepare for the
tasks at the start of an activity. Risk assessments help identify hazards, the associated level of risk
and action that can be taken to manage the risk. All incidents or near-misses should be recorded on
the Incident Report form and the Volunteer Group Coordinator should notify Council by the next
working day.
A WHS folder is provided to each Volunteer Group Coordinator which consists of the following:
e Attendance and Risk Assessment form
e Workplace Injury and Incident Recording form
e Community Bushland Care Volunteer Registration form
e Emergency First Aid Tips
e Emergency Contacts List
e Record of Herbicide Application
e Code of Conduct.
3.3. Code of Conduct
There are a number of legislated principles, together with Council's corporate values, policies and
guidelines that form the basis of Noosa Council’s Code of Conduct. All Council employees,
contractors and volunteers must be familiar with and follow both the spirit and content of the Code of
Conduct.
A copy of the Code of Conduct is available in your group folder and may also be requested through
Council.
3.4 Blue Card (working with children check)
If you wish to organise activities with children under 18 years, either on-site, at a school or otherwise,
you may need to apply for a blue card. Please consult with Council before planning any additional
activities that include children under 18. Children under 18 attending working bees are required to be
supervised by a parent/guardian or if through a school, a suitable number of teachers.
A blue card is issued by the Queensland Government. A criminal history check is conducted to
determine whether a person is considered eligible for a blue card. If a person is considered eligible
they are issued a positive notice letter and a blue card.
The blue card is free for volunteers and applications and relevant identification need to be completed
through Council.
For more information, go to the Queensland Government website|www.bluecard.gld.gov.au
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3.5 | ACDC (Agricultural Chemical Distribution Control) Licence
For volunteers that choose to use herbicide for their on-ground projects it should be included in their
approved 12-month Activity Plan with Glyphosate (360g/L) being the only herbicide approved for use.
All volunteer ACDC licences are linked to a Ground Distribution Contractor (in this case Noosa Shire
Council) who hold the authority. Council also holds a ‘no spray’ list of areas where spraying is not
permitted.
To spray, volunteers must:
e hold a current ACDC licence and provide a copy to Council
e have written landholder (Council) approval for its use
e follow Council’s Safe Work Procedure for Chemical Storage, Handling and Application
e complete the Herbicide Application Record and submit to Council.
To cut and paint, volunteers must:
e follow Council’s Safe Work Procedure for Chemical Storage, Handling and Application
Under legislation, the supervising licensed operator is responsible to:
e Check the calibration of equipment and correct nozzle is being used (where applicable).
e Supervise the mixing and safe handling of the herbicide (ensuring adequate Personal Protective
Equipment is used) and appropriate labelling.
e Complete the herbicide application record and submitting to Council within one month of
completion.
For further information, please refer to[(www.business qid.gov.aul
3.6 Insurances
Council maintains several insurances designed to protect volunteers. To ensure you are covered,
volunteers must be registered with Council and be working to a Council approved plan on Council
managed land.
There is no age restriction for the insurance, however the Volunteer Group Coordinator should ensure
the activities are appropriate when assigning tasks and children should be accompanied by a
parent/guardian.
Public liability
Council maintains a public liability protection policy which includes legal liability indemnity for
registered Community Bushland Care volunteers regarding claims from the public due to alleged
negligence.
Public liability is the insurance you need when somebody sues you for injuring them or damaging their
property. The insurance is designed to cover the costs of defending the claim and paying any awards
or compensation.
All claims received will be fully investigated by Council’s insurer prior to an indemnity decision being
made. To ensure coverage under Council’s policy, registered volunteers must be acting in accordance
with their work plan and/or any instructions provided by Council.
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Personal accident
Council maintains a personal accident policy of insurance for registered Community Bushland Care
volunteers. The insurance is to cover some of the expenses incurred by people who injure themselves
while undertaking approved duties as authorised and registered volunteers.
For more details, please contact your nominated Council Officer.
3.7 External Funding for a Project
Council recognises the substantial efforts of volunteer groups and sponsoring organisations who have
secured a significant amount of funding to enhance bushland areas since the program was
established. Volunteer groups take on the responsibility of seeking a sponsoring organisation,
expending the funds, reporting and acquitting the expenditure with the funding body.
Where groups intend to apply for external funding to undertake works on Council land, the works
should align with Council’s plans and policies to ensure best support can be provided by Council.
Relevant sections of Council and other stakeholders will need to be consulted and provide approval
for the project prior to funding applications being submitted. Ongoing maintenance requirements,
WHS and insurance requirements will also need to be discussed and agreed by both Council and
volunteers, and will be outlined in the letter of support. A final copy of the grant application should be
submitted to Council along with any supporting material such as site plan, maps and insurances.
Please provide Council with a minimum of two weeks’ notice of your intention to apply to ensure there
is sufficient time to coordinate the appropriate support. The groups nominated Council Officer will
guide volunteers in this process.
3.8 Cessation of Volunteer Activities
Where a group or volunteer wish to cease activities on a temporary or permanent basis, they should
notify their Volunteer Group Coordinator and/or nominated Council Officer. Upon request, Council will
remove personal details from the database and any loaned tools or equipment should be returned to
Council.
Volunteers are encouraged to resolve any concerns in the first instance with their Volunteer Group
Coordinator and/or nominated Council Officer. Where necessary, it may be referred to the
Environmental Services Manager to ensure a satisfactory resolution is achieved.
Volunteers and groups agree to work within Council plans, policies and guidelines will receive
appropriate resources, training and support to assist them to achieve their goals. Where required,
additional guidance can be provided on correct processes and methods. Where volunteers actively
undertake works contrary to advice, plans or Council's Code of Conduct, they may be requested to
cease operations.
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4. Operational Support
4.1. Project Planning
It is essential for the benefit of both Council and volunteers that simple and accurate records of
activities are kept. These records are beneficial for both Council and groups as they demonstrate the
commitment and achievements of volunteers, assist with ongoing funding and meet insurance
requirements.
12-month Activity Plan
Developing a 12-month Activity Plan in partnership with Council is an important tool for communicating
group site goals on Council managed land. It assists with planning your working bees for the year and
enables the best possible support from Council according to available resources. Through the
development of this plan, other departments and stakeholders can be informed of volunteer activities,
ensuring the best possible outcomes are achieved.
The 12-month Activity Plan should include the following:
e group name
e site location details
e working bee dates
e activities being undertaken
e resources requested from Council
The 12-month Activity Plan should identify any other specific needs of the project which may include
brush cutting, chain-sawing and broad chemical spraying. As the use of power tools, such as brush
cutters, chainsaws and large scale sprayers are not permitted to be used by volunteers or outside
organisations, Council may be able to assist. Please ensure the request is in the 12-month Activity
Plan and for non-reactive work, please allow a minimum of 2weeks’ notice for works to occur.
Once plans have been developed in consultation with Council, Council will provide acknowledgement
in writing of support requests.
Attendance and Risk Assessment Form
It is important Volunteers Group Coordinators ensure that each volunteer signs on and off each day
and that they have acknowledged the relevant risks present on site that day. It also provides an
account of activities and achievements for each group, such as number of volunteer hours, trees
planted etc.
Once completed, please return to your nominated Council Officer on a quarterly basis for upkeep of
records.
Working Bees
Where there is an approved 12-month Activity Plan, Council Officers will consider the needs of each
group and attend a minimum of 2 and up to 4 working bees annually. Council’s attendance at working
bees is to provide support, planning, training and Workplace Health and Safety. Working bee
attendance is scheduled from February to November on a roster basis and dependant on available
resources.
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4.2 Tools and Equipment
Group allocation
All groups are provided with an initial loan allocation of bush regeneration hand tools, equipment and
reference material for use by the group. When new members join, additional hand tools may be
requested through your nominated Council Officer. All tools and equipment are considered on long-
term loan and must be signed for and returned on completion of the project or group finishing.
Borrowing of tools and equipment
Additional hand tools and small equipment may be available on loan for special projects. Contact
Council at least two weeks before your working bee if you require any of the following:
e wheelbarrow
e mulch forks
e shovels
e planting spades
e large mattocks
e rakes
e rake hoes
e loppers
e tree popper
e garden hoses and connections
4.3 Reactive Work
Occasionally reactive work is needed that cannot be planned for, such as chain sawing fallen or
hazardous branches on access paths after a storm. If you become aware of a reactive issue, please
raise a customer request by contacting Councils Customer Service on 5329 6500 or
This ensures the job is recorded, you receive a reference number and also
that it is actioned appropriately. Where the issue affects the planned volunteering activity or site,
isolate the hazard and undertake suitable alternative activities.
4.4 Ordering Materials
Where it is identified in the approved 12-month Activity Plan, Council will provide trees, stakes, mulch
and other similar resources. Please order any of these supplies through Council at least two weeks
prior to your working bee. Council can provide advice on suitable species selection based on the
Regional Ecosystem, plant numbers and mulch as needed. When ordering, please be specific about
delivery location and quantity.
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4.5 Rubbish Removal
Council assists groups to remove any rubbish that volunteers may have collected during working
bees. Hard waste (such as household items) should be piled safely away from public access (paths
etc.) and in a way that is accessible by Council. To have this removed, please contact Council's
Customer Service on 5329 6500 or to raise a customer request. This will
ensure it is handled and actioned by the appropriate team.
Green waste should be left to decompose on-site when it is seed free and non-vegetative to reduce
landfill. Council supports new initiatives in waste management and can assist you with support and
advice on the best methodology for your site such as on-site composting and the management of
fallen branches. Where on-site composting is not possible, green waste should be bagged (weed
bags or pink skips) and removed from site. Your 12-month Activity Plan should include an estimate of
pink skips’ and white weed bags for budgeting purposes. Contact your nominated Council Officer to
arrange the collection and disposal of green waste.
It is possible that you may find hazardous waste on site, such as asbestos. Leave any potentially
hazardous waste undisturbed as volunteer safety is Council’s priority. Contact your nominated Council
Officer for advice.
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5. Volunteer Engagement
5.1. Training and Events
There are a number of local community organisations and groups that provide workshops relating to
the environment on a broad and interesting range of topics. Volunteers are encouraged to support
local organisations through attendance at these workshops.
Volunteers can also develop a broad range of skills and knowledge of ecological restoration principles
and techniques through attendance at working bees, working alongside other highly-experienced
volunteers.
Council will provide a range of events and training:
e annual first aid training for two registered volunteers per group
e annual Community Bushland Care WHS Induction/Refresher
e one coordinated National Tree Day event
e annual Christmas celebration/recognition event
e other ecological and cultural awareness days as available.
5.2 | Promotion and Publicity
Council is supportive in promoting the efforts of volunteers and gaining new volunteers for their
projects. Council may carry out the following promotional activities on behalf of volunteers where
resources are available:
e Displaying the Community Bushland Care brochure at libraries, Council Customer Service areas
and Tourist Information Centres.
e Providing information on Council’s website such as the working bee calendar and contact details
for each group.
e Assistance with media releases for local newspapers and Council’s Facebook page promoting the
program.
e One Community Bushland Care sign dependant on groups’ needs and available resources.
Groups may also choose to promote their activities in the following way:
e Display the Community Bushland Care banner at events.
e Distribute the Community Bushland Care brochure with working bee details to project neighbours
and local community groups.
e Arrange media and photos for environmental educational opportunities.
e Organise a display for local festivals, events, libraries, local shops or other suitable locations.
e Give talks and presentations at local schools or clubs.
e Invite other community groups to attend working bees or special events on-site.
Please note: Noosa Council has a Signage Guideline and a Brand Standards Manual that helps
ensure brand consistency. Any draft artwork for signage (temporary or permanent), flyers or
brochures should be sent to your nominated Council Officer who can discuss and review with
Council’s Community Engagement Branch before going to print/production.
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5.3. Corporate and School Volunteering
Where organisations or volunteers wish to initiate school or corporate groups on Council managed
land, the Volunteer Group Coordinator must first refer the organisation to Council to ensure it has
appropriate insurances and supervision in place prior to the commencement of any volunteer work by
the organisation. As Council’s insurances do not cover external organisations, such as schools or
corporate groups, a free Council event permit is required by the organisation to ensure the appropriate
insurances and safety measures are in place for all participants.
At the event, all volunteers and participants should complete the Community Bushland Care
Attendance and Risk Assessment form and follow Council’s Workplace Health and Safety guidelines.
Organisations and volunteers should ensure there is adequate supervision by teachers/staff at the
event. Volunteers may also be required to hold a blue card.
For more information, please contact the property department at Council via email
who can provide guidance and assistance.
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6. Expansion of the Program
6.1 New Volunteers
New volunteers are encouraged to join existing groups and are required to complete a Community
Bushland Care Volunteer Registration form, relevant on-site training and undertake a WHS induction
by the Volunteer Group Coordinator and/or Council.
Being a bushland carer is satisfying work and it makes a real difference to the quality of bushland
habitat in local areas. As a participant, volunteers have the opportunity to:
e learn more about plant identification, natural ecosystems and environmental processes
e participate in social events, workshops and get to know your local community
e join in activities that enhance well-being and fitness
e contribute to protecting and enhancing biodiversity values of the shire
e gain asense of pride and satisfaction in seeing your patch restored
e bea part of the greater network of Community Bushland Care volunteers
6.2 Activities of Volunteers
Volunteers may undertake the following activities on Council land where there is an agreed 12-month
Activity plan and have undertaken the Community Bushland Care WHS Induction:
e hand weeding — primary, secondary and follow-up weeding and maintenance of sites
e weed matting and mulching
e small scale erosion control
e seed collection and propagation of common species
e revegetation — planting endemic species, mulching, stakes/guards, watering and follow-up
maintenance
e promotion of their own projects
e monitoring of flora and fauna
e other activities as approved through the 12-month Activity Plan.
6.3. New Groups and/or Sites
To establish a new group or new site, an application to Council is required to be made. Groups and/or
sites must meet the following criteria:
e The project must be on land managed by Noosa Shire Council and have the support of the land
manager and aligned with Council’s policies and plans.
e Conservation of biodiversity and the environment is the primary intent of the project.
e A 12-month Activity Plan is required to be developed by the group in partnership with Council
which outlines group goals, site locations, working bee dates, activities and resource requests.
e The role of Volunteer Group Coordinator must be filled at all times and there should be enough
volunteers to ensure the project is sustainable and able to meet the group’s aims and objectives.
e Volunteers must be committed to undertake relevant on-site training and WHS induction.
Applications can be received at any time of the year and new groups and/or sites will depend on
available resources and level of support required. If you would like to start a new group or new site
and have an interested group of participants, contact your nominated Council Officer who will guide
you through the process.
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Appendix 1
Roles and Responsibilities Summary
Volunteer Group Coordinator
e Send working bee reminder email and other relevant information to the group.
e Ensure the Attendance and Risk Assessment form is completed and submitted to Council.
e Ensure group members have completed a Community Bushland Care Volunteer. Registration
form and their details are up to date with Council.
e Work collaboratively with Council to develop a 12-month Activity Plan.
e Raise requests on behalf of the group with Council.
Volunteer Group Member
e Submit a completed Community Bushland Care Volunteer Registration form to your Volunteer
Group Coordinator or Council.
e Sign on and off the Attendance and Risk Assessment form at each working bee.
e Follow Council’s WHS guidelines, undertake annual WHS training and notify your Volunteer
Group Coordinator of any incidents or near misses as soon as they occur.
e Raise bushcare requests with the Volunteer Group Coordinator in the first instance.
Council will provide:
e logistical and operational support as per the approved 12-month Activity Plan;
e operational advice and stakeholder engagement where appropriate;
e annual first aid training to two registered volunteers of each group;
e first aid and snake bite kits to all group, restocking annually;
e PPE as outlined in these guidelines;
e annual WHS induction;
e waste removal;
e tools and equipment to undertake approved works;
e training, events and promotion as outlined in these guidelines;
e forms as required.
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