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2014-10-14 Planning & Organisation Committee Agenda - Pages 51 - 117
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PLANNING & ORGANISATION COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA 14 OCTOBER 2014
EXECUTIVE OFFICE REPORTS
9 EUMUNDI DOONAN VERRIERDALE - REQUEST FROM THE EDV RESIDENTS GROUP
INC IN RELATION TO A PROPOSED BOUNDARY CHANGE
DOCUMENT INFORM AT ION
Author Chief Executive Officer, Brett de Chastel
Executive Office
Index ECM/ Project/ EDV Boundary Change
Attachments 1 Letter of request from EDV Group dated 8 September 2014
2 Submission by EDV Group to Noosa Council dated 8 September
2014
3 Demographic Information from EDV prepared by Mr Ted Fitzgerald
4 Population Gravity Model Assessment from EDV prepared by Mr Ted
Fitzgerald
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Noosa Council has received a submission from the EDV Residents Group Inc (EDV Group)
seeking support for a change to the boundary between the Sunshine Coast Regional Council
(SCRC) and Noosa Council.
Ultimately, the decision as to whether to refer the boundary issue for review to the Local
Government Change Commission lies with the Minister. If a referral is made, the question of
community of interest is the most critical element for the Change Commission in accordance with
the criteria set out in the Local Government Regulation. An assessment shows that there is an
overall common community of interest between the EDV area and the Noosa Council area with
some parts of the EDV area having a significant community of interest with Noosa. Naturally,
those parts of EDV that directly adjoin the existing boundary have a higher level of community of
interest than those areas further to the south.
However, it should also be noted that the question of boundary change is one for local
communities to campaign on and not a matter for Councils to direct what should or should not
happen. As such, our Council should advise the EDV Group of our assessment of the
community of interest and support should the boundary change occur.
RECOMMENDATION
That Council note the report by the Chief Executive Officer to the Planning & Organisation
Committee Meeting dated 14 October 2014 in relation to the request and submission by the EDV
Residents Group Inc and:
A. Recognise that proposed boundary change issues should be initiated by the local
community that is affected by the proposed change;
B. Note that there appears to be a significant overall community of interest between the EDV
area and the Noosa Council community based on economic and social interactions;
C. Advise the EDV Residents Group Inc that Noosa Council would participate in any review
process undertaken by the Change Commissioner if the Minister for Local Government
makes a referral to the Local Government Change Commission pursuant to section 18 of
the Local Government Act; and
D. Note that if the outcome of a review by the Local Government Change Commission was to
result in a change to the boundary as proposed by the EDV Residents Group Inc, the
Noosa Council would welcome the EDV community to Noosa.
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Section 2
PLANNING & ORGANISATION COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA 14 OCTOBER 2014
REPORT
History
As Council would be aware, the EDV Residents Group Inc (EDV Group) have been campaigning
for a number of years for a boundary change. Prior to 2008, this campaign was focused on
changing the boundary between the former Maroochy Shire Council and the former Noosa Shire
Council. Obviously, the 2008 amalgamation process superseded that campaign.
During the 2007/08 anti-amalgamation campaign, the EDV Group was very active in
campaigning against the amalgamation process. The former Noosa Council made a submission
to the Local Government Boundary Commission in 2007 which included the EDV area in a
proposed “Greater Noosa” area.
During the de-amalgamation campaign, the EDV Group took an active part in the Noosa
Independence Alliance and campaigned actively in support of the re-establishment of a new
Noosa Council. The de-amalgamation that took effect on 1 January 2014 was undertaken in
accordance with the former Noosa Council boundaries i.e. excluding the EDV area.
EDV Group Request
Following the de-amalgamation, the EDV Group has recommenced their campaign to achieve a
boundary change between the Sunshine Coast Regional Council (SCRC) and Noosa Council for
the EDV area to be excluded from the SCRC area and included in the Noosa Council area.
On 8 September 2014, the EDV Group wrote to Noosa Council requesting Noosa Council to
advise on its position in relation to a potential boundary change. The request from the EDV
Group is attached to this report. It consists of a number of parts:
Attachment 1 – Letter of request from EDV Group dated 8 September 2014
Attachment 2 – Submission by EDV Group to Noosa Shire dated 8 September 2014
Attachment 3 – Demographic Information from Mr Ted Fitzgerald
Attachment 4 – Population Gravity Model Assessment by Mr Ted Fitzgerald
Relevant Legislation
The Local Government Act and Regulation sets out a process by which local government
boundary change requests are dealt with. Following amendments to the Act and Regulation in
2013, any referrals to the Local Government Change Commission (the Change Commission) can
only be made by the Minister for Local Government (see section 18 of the Local Government
Act).
If a referral is made to the Change Commission, the Change Commission seeks submissions
and undertakes an assessment of the proposal.
In undertaking an assessment, the Change Commission must have regard to a number of
matters set out in section 9 of the Local Government Regulation. That section provides as
follows:
“(1) The external boundaries of a local government area should be drawn in a way that has
regard to communities of interest, including that the local government area should generally
—
(a) reflect local communities, for example, the geographical pattern of human activities
(where people live, work and engage in leisure activities), and the linkages between
local communities; and
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PLANNING & ORGANISATION COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA 14 OCTOBER 2014
(b) have a centre, or centres, of administration and service easily accessible to its
population; and
(c) ensure effective elected representation for residents and ratepayers; and
(d) have external boundaries that —
(i) do not divide local neighbourhoods or adjacent rural and urban areas with
common interests or interdependencies, including, for example, economic,
cultural and ethnic interests or interdependencies; and
(ii) subject to the water catchment principle — follow the natural geographical
features and non-natural features separating different communities; and
(iii) do not dissect properties.
(2) The water catchment principle is the principle that water catchment areas should
generally be included in the local government area they service.”
Further, section 11 of the regulation provides as follows:
The external boundaries of a local government area should be drawn in a way that —
(a) helps in —
(i) the planning and development for the benefit of the local government area; and
(ii) the efficient and effective operation of its facilities, services and activities; and
(b) has regard to existing and expected population growth.
About the EDV area
What area is being proposed by the EDV Group as part of the proposed boundary change? The
details of the area sought to be included in the boundary change by the EDV Group can be found
in their submission (see attachment 2). It should be noted that any final boundaries would be
determined by the Local Government Change Commissioner and those boundaries do not need
to the same as what has been proposed by any proponent.
What are the characteristic of those areas? The assessment set out below highlights some of
the demographic and planning characteristics of the area. Attachment 3 to the submission by the
EDV Group also contains demographic information while attachment 4 highlights the “population
gravity model” which is an indicator of the inter-relationships between different communities.
For the purpose of this report, the area of our assessment is shown in yellow on Map 1 below. It
is important to note that for the purposes of this assessment of community of interest and related
issues, we have used census districts. This allows for easier statistical analysis but the ABS
statistical boundaries do not exactly align with the proposed boundary sought by the EDV Group.
This does not mean that the areas set out in the maps below reflect what Noosa Council believes
should be the proposed boundaries. That level of detail can be addressed if the matter is
referred to the Change Commission by the Minister.
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Section 4
PLANNING & ORGANISATION COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA 14 OCTOBER 2014
Map 1 EDV Area
The overall area can be broken down into five sub-areas with their 2011 resident populations
represented proportionally in Figure 1 below. The total population of the EDV area is 5,921
(based on census data).
In broad terms, the closer to the Noosa Shire boundary the higher the reliance on and more
interaction with Noosa Shire for work, recreation, shopping, education and other social
infrastructure. For instance, most residents of Eumundi Range, Doonan and Weyba Downs are
more likely to have a closer community of interest with Noosa Shire. Conversely, more residents
of Eumundi are employed outside of Noosa Shire and take advantage of shops, childcare, fitness
and leisure facilities closer to work or between work and home.
Noosa libraries at Cooroy and Noosaville are well patronised by residents of the EDV area. In a
twelve month period, Cooroy and Noosaville Libraries issue over 33,000 items to residents of
Doonan, close to 25,000 items to residents of Eumundi, over 4,300 items to residents of
Verrierdale and close to 4,000 items to residents of Weyba Downs. In total, over 65,300 items
are issued by Noosa libraries to residents of the EDV area showing that many residents of those
areas come to Noosa to access community facilities.
Noosa Leisure Centre has 33 regular members from the EDV area while Noosa Aquatic Centre
has 140. Approximately 20% of the membership of Wallace House Arts and Craft Association
are residents outside of Noosa Shire with a large proportion coming from this area. Ticket sales
at The J and Noosa Arts Theatre suggest a high degree of patronage from residents to the south
west of Noosa Shire and various sports clubs in Noosa have members from throughout the EDV
area. Noosa Regional Gallery statistics show that 30% of the “Friends of the Gallery” mailing
group are from the Sunshine Coast local government area – predominately the EDV area.
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Section 5
PLANNING & ORGANISATION COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA 14 OCTOBER 2014
Figure 1 Proportional Distribution of Resident Population
Weyba Downs
Doonan
Verrierdale
Eumundi Range
Eumundi
Each of the 5 sub-areas of the EDV area are identified and assessed below.
Weyba Downs
Weyba Downs and West Peregian Beach are situated to the west, south west and south of Lake
Weyba to the east and north of the Emu Mountain Arterial Road. The area is made up of two
SA1 census districts and is shown with a yellow border on the following map.
Map 2 Weyba Downs
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Section 6
PLANNING & ORGANISATION COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA 14 OCTOBER 2014
The area consists of relatively flat land within the catchment of Lake Weyba. Part of the Noosa
National Park falls into this area. To the west of Lake Weyba is an estate of small acreage lots
generally between 5,000m2 and 8,000m2 and a collection of lakeside visitor cottages. To the
south of the Lake are further acreage lots but also larger rural residential lots of 10 hectares or
more. Most of the properties in this area are well vegetated.
With the exception of public land in the Environmental Management and Conservation Zone, the
Sunshine Coast Planning Scheme includes the rest of this land in the Rural Zone with no
potential for further subdivision. Much of this sub-area is mapped as containing significant native
vegetation and there are substantial wetlands within the National Park.
At the 2011 census there was a combined population of 780 persons, a third of whom were
under the age of 20 years and 12.43% of whom were 65 years or over. There was a total of 266
private dwellings with an average occupancy of over 3 persons per dwelling. The area includes
many working families with median weekly household income over $1,300. Housing in this area
is exclusively detached houses, over 85% of which are owner occupied.
Residents of this area have very strong ties with Noosa Shire as well as Coolum Beach. Major
shopping centres in the Noosa area are close to this locality but the southern area is also close to
the Peregian Springs Shopping Centre area. The area is also critical to the catchment area of
Lake Weyba and catchment areas are a significant issue that would be considered by the
Change Commission (see section 9 (d) (ii) of the Local Government Regulation).
Doonan
Doonan includes quite a large area adjoining the current border. There are eight different SA1
census districts making up the Sunshine Coast portion of Doonan (2424 hectares) and these
combined are shown with the yellow boundary on the following map. Parts of Doonan are also
known as Noosa Valley which was an original development name but is still used colloquially.
Map 3 Doonan
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PLANNING & ORGANISATION COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA 14 OCTOBER 2014
Doonan includes vegetated hill slopes to the west and some lower lands north of Verrierdale. In
the valley some parts are occasionally subject to flood inundation.
Properties are generally large lifestyle blocks some of which are quite physically constrained.
There are approximately 1,000 dwellings in this area.
There are also various businesses located in Doonan including semi-industrial functions,
predominantly adjoining Eumundi-Noosa Road. The Noosa Pengari Steiner School is a relatively
small school but enrolments are from a wide catchment including the Noosa area.
The Sunshine Coast Planning Scheme includes most of Doonan in the Rural Residential Zone
although some properties towards the east are in the Rural Zone and others are in the Limited
Development Zone. Larger unconstrained blocks still have some scope for further subdivision.
Many properties are significantly affected by biodiversity values of native vegetation, steep slope
(including quite a lot of 25% or more), landslide potential and bushfire risk. The water catchment
also flows into the Noosa area.
At the 2011 census there was a population of some 2,517 people in Doonan, 27.61% of whom
were under the age of 20 and 15.05% of whom were 65 years or older. The age and income of
the community is somewhat diverse commensurate with the range of properties from modest
acre lots on lower lands to large elevated lots. There are generally high levels of amenity
throughout although accessibility to local services is limited.
Residents have strong ties to Noosa Shire and most frequently go north or east for shopping and
recreation as well as social interaction. This part of the EDV area appears to have the highest
level of community of interest with Noosa which is logical as this area is closest to the boundary.
Verrierdale
Verrierdale consists of just one SA1 census district as shown by the yellow boundary on the
following map.
Map 4 Verrierdale
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PLANNING & ORGANISATION COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA 14 OCTOBER 2014
Verrierdale typically consists of larger lots than adjoining Doonan. There are many vegetated
lifestyle lots but also larger lots with rural enterprises. Land is predominantly included in the
Rural Zone without potential for further subdivision. Properties around Doonan Bridge Road
were once under cane and the farming community had links with Valdora and Yandina Creek.
Parts of Verrierdale are subject to flood inundation and there is a large wetland to the south west
of Peregian Springs. There is a sizable conservation park forming the boundary with Eumundi.
Verrierdale had a 2011 population of 698 people, 27.9% of whom were under 20 years of age
and 12.4% were 65 years or over. There was an average of 2.7 persons per household and
median weekly household income was $1,241. Nearly 80% of occupied private dwellings are
owner occupied.
Apart from the hall and tennis courts there is little community infrastructure in Verrierdale and
limited businesses take advantage of exposure from Eumundi Noosa Road. The community has
strong ties with Noosa Shire but also with Eumundi, Coolum and Peregian Springs.
In terms of State electorates Verrierdale is split with the northern portion in Noosa and the
southern (roughly two thirds) being in Nicklin.
Eumundi Range
Situated to the north of Eumundi, and south of Mt Cooroy, Eumundi Range rises sharply to the
north of the railway line and joins with Doonan as well as linking to Tinbeerwah. There is just one
SA1 census district to Eumundi Range (920 hectares in area) and it is shown by the yellow
border on the following map.
Map 5 Eumundi Range
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PLANNING & ORGANISATION COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA 14 OCTOBER 2014
Eumundi Range had a 2011 resident population of 538 persons and a total of 208 private
dwellings. 25.7% of residents were under the age of 20 and 19% were 65 years old or over. The
average occupancy was 2.7 persons per household and median household income was $1,375
per week. Over 85% of homes are owner occupied.
The Sunshine Coast Planning Scheme includes most of this area in the Rural Zone with no
potential for further subdivision. The portion to the north of Sunrise Road is within the catchment
of the Lake Macdonald water supply. The issue of catchment areas are a significant issue that
would be considered by the Change Commission (see section 9 (d) (ii) of the Local Government
Regulation).
The portion generally to the south east of Sunrise Road is zoned either Rural Residential or
Limited Development.
While it contains some steep slope and landslide potential the area does not generally have as
much protected native vegetation as Doonan and rural lifestyle lots are mixed with some smaller
rural enterprises.
Residents of this area are closely aligned with both Eumundi and Cooroy for access to goods
and services including schools; however they also take access a range of recreation, shopping
and infrastructure in Noosa.
Eumundi
Eumundi is comprised of three SA1 census districts and shown in a yellow border on the
following map. The area contains 1,423 hectares.
Map 6 Eumundi
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Section 10
PLANNING & ORGANISATION COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA 14 OCTOBER 2014
Eumundi is a small rural town with strong links to its heritage. It has good access to the Bruce
Highway and the Northcoast Railway line. Most of the commercial and retail businesses are
focussed on the main street of Memorial Avenue and the twice weekly markets have become
synonymous with the town.
Eumundi has a primary school but high school is usually accessed at Cooroy although students
also attend private schools at Nambour, Peregian Springs and Noosaville.
At the 2011 Census greater Eumundi had a population of 1,388 persons, 28.67% of whom were
under the age of 20 and 12.31% were 65 years or older. The median weekly income is lower in
Eumundi than in the rest of this study area. There were 553 private dwellings and just over 74%
of housing is owner occupied. Most housing consists of separate houses.
Eumundi is a strong community in its own right. Residents have ties with Noosaville and Cooroy
but also with Nambour and other centres. Accessibility to the highway and railway allows
residents to easily access employment and infrastructure in various areas.
Most of Eumundi is within the State electorate of Noosa but the outer extents fall within Nicklin.
Community of Interest
The Regulation makes it clear that one of the critical aspects taken into account when the
Change Commission considers an issue such as this is the question of community of interest.
An assessment has been undertaken by Council staff to determine to what extent a community of
interest exists between the EDV area and the Noosa Council area. Essentially, the question of
community of interest looks at where people engage – their living patterns, shopping patterns,
use of community facilities etc.
The key indicators of an overall community of interest are as follows:-
Access to shopping facilities – From Eumundi, it is 8km to the nearest supermarket (IGA) at
Cooroy while it is 12 km to the supermarket at Yandina. For the area of Eumundi Range, the
convenience of the Cooroy shopping centre is even more pronounced. For the Doonan and
Weyba Downs area, the Noosa Civic and Noosaville shopping precincts are the most convenient
with strong patterns of access to those shopping precincts from residents in those areas.
Access to other business services – The commercial nodes at Noosaville and the Shire Business
Centre are the primary service centres for the northern end of the Sunshine Coast. Professional
services such as accountants, lawyers, architects etc are available in this area and these firms
have service areas which include the EDV area. While there are some local firms providing
these types of services (particularly in Eumundi) the major or specialist types of business
services are situated in the commercial nodes at Noosaville and the Shire Business Centre.
Access to community facilities – Many of Noosa Council’s community facilities are accessed by
residents of the EDV area. This is a strong indicator of where residents of this area go to access
community facilities. For example, each year, the Noosa Council libraries at Cooroy and
Noosaville issue over 65,300 items to residents of the EDV area. There is a higher level of use
for residents in the Doonan area than other areas of EDV. Noosa Council records also indicate
that 140 residents of the EDV area are regular members of the Noosa Aquatic Centre which is
surprising given that Eumundi has its own pool however, that probably reflects the fact that the
NAC is a 50 metre pool and has a number of swimming clubs / groups. There is lower
membership of the Noosa Leisure Centre (only 33 regular members) but there would be a
significant number of other residents who would participate in sports such as basketball, futsal
etc as members of clubs and teams.
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PLANNING & ORGANISATION COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA 14 OCTOBER 2014
Access to Landfill Site – The Noosa Council landfill site at Eumundi Road provides the nearest
landfill service for residents of the EDV area wishing to dispose of material.
Access to Medical services – The nearest hospital to the EDV area is the Noosa District Hospital
in Goodchap Street, Noosaville. However, major medical issues are transferred to the Nambour
Hospital. While there are some local medical services in Eumundi, the nearest medical services
for many residents in the EDV area are located in Cooroy, Noosaville and Noosa Junction.
Community Groups – It is not possible to source definitive data from different community groups.
However, anecdotally, many Noosa sporting and community groups have members from the
EDV area. If the boundary issue is ultimately referred to the Change Commission, surveys could
be undertaken of local sporting and community groups to ascertain the level of membership from
residents in the EDV area.
Educational Facilities – The high school at Cooroy provides the nearest State high school for
residents in the Eumundi, Eumundi Range and Doonan areas. However, there are also a range
of private schools in the Noosa area which attract a significant number of attendees from the
EDV area. These include Good Shepard Lutheran College, St Teresa’s Catholic College, St
Thomas Moore Catholic Primary School and Noosa Christian College. However, it also must be
noted that private schools in the SCRC area attract residents from Noosa and EDV e.g. St
Andrews Anglican College.
Tourism – Tourism Noosa has over 30 members who are located in the EDV area. This includes
the Eumundi Markets which has over 320 members in its own right. The Tourism Board has
board members from the EDV area including the current Deputy Chairperson. During the SCRC
period of governance, Tourism Noosa was requested to be the Northern Tourism Desk for the
Sunshine Coast with the EDV area being part of their Service Area. The Eumundi Markets and
the township of Eumundi form an integral part of the Noosa experience with the Noosa Visitor
Information Centres assisting with tourists visiting the area who wish to go to the markets.
Catchment Management issues – For some parts of the EDV area, there is a direct link to Noosa
catchments. This is particularly the case for Weyba Downs, Doonan and Eumundi Range.
These areas form a significant part of the catchment for the Noosa region. In some cases, this is
particularly important (for example Weyba Downs is a key catchment for Lake Weyba and much
of Eumundi Range is in the Lake McDonald catchment area.)
Previous Council Consideration
This matter has not been previously considered by the current Noosa Council. The former
Noosa Council considered this issue as part of its submission to the 2007 Local Government
Boundary Commission and included the EDV area in its submission to the Commission as part of
a proposed expanded Noosa Council area.
Finance & Risk
It is not possible to undertake a formal financial assessment without access to EDV site specific
data from Sunshine Coast Regional Council. That is unlikely to be forthcoming.
Based on the experience of the CEO when assessing other local government boundary changes
over the last 15 years, rural/residential areas such as the EDV area are generally slightly “rates
negative” i.e. the cost of servicing an area is more than the rates received from that area.
Although the submission from the EDV Group identifies that the area is likely to be slightly “rates
positive”, my experience is that once depreciation and other costs are taken into account, a rural
residential area such as this would not be rates positive.
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PLANNING & ORGANISATION COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA 14 OCTOBER 2014
As such, if (or when) a detailed financial assessment can be undertaken, it is likely that there will
be no financial advantage to Noosa Council and indeed, there would likely be a slight financial
disadvantage. However, in the context of the area that might transfer to the Noosa Council, it is
noted that EDV would only constitute approximately 9.8% of the Noosa Council rateable
properties. The EDV area has 2,749 rateable properties compared to approximately 28,000
rateable properties in the current Noosa area.
This does not mean that there would be a 9.8% financial impact. It means that any formal impact
would likely to be negligible in the context of Noosa Council’s $90M budget and strong financial
position.
Consultation
External Consultation - Community & Stakeholder
Although our Council has received a submission from the EDV group who have undertaken a
range of consultation within the EDV community, our Council has not done any consultation on
this issue. Naturally, it would not be appropriate to do so in the EDV area as that is a matter for
that community.
Internal Consultation
The Executive Manager and Strategic Planning have assisted in sourcing information about the
community of interest between EDV and Noosa.
Departments/Sections Consulted:
Community Services X Planning & Infrastructure
Disaster Management & Public Order Building & Plumbing Services
Waste & Environmental Health DA Planning
Community Facilities x Strategic Land Use Planning
Cultural Facilities Asset Design & Investigations
Asset Planning
Civil Operations
Environment
X Executive Office X Corporate Services
Community Engagement Finance
Customer Service ICT
Executive Support Procurement & Fleet
Governance Property & Facilities
Human Resources Revenue Services
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PLANNING & ORGANISATION COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA 14 OCTOBER 2014
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PLANNING & ORGANISATION COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA 14 OCTOBER 2014
ATTACHMENT 1
8 Panavista Court, Doonan 4562
0415 873 552
[email protected]
www.edv.org.au
http://www.facebook.com/EDV.residents#
http://www.twitter.com/edvresidents
8" September 2014
Mr Noel Playford
Mayor
Noosa Council
PO Box 141
Tewantin, QLD 4565
Sent by email to [email protected]
Dear Mayor Playford
Re: Submission to Noosa Council on a Boundary Change
This submission to the Noosa Council is prepared by the EDV Residents Group,
whose members are residents of Eumundi, Doonan, Verrierdale, Weyba Downs
and that part of Peregian Beach that is currently part of the Sunshine Coast
Council Area and locally referred to by residents as Peregian Beach (West).
The EDV group was formed in 2004 and today has over 230 registered members
and reaches a further 890 residents of the EDV Area by regular email. The EDV
area has about 3500 people on the electoral roll. This Submission presents
arguments for the EDV area to join Noosa Shire by way of boundary
realignment.
A Doorknock Campaign carried out in 2005 reached over 2,500 homes in the
EDV area which covered an estimated 85% of all residents and 70% of local
business. EDV found that over 80% of residents supported a boundary change,
together with the majority of local business.
Council will be aware of the forced amalgamation of Noosa with Maroochydore
and Caloundra in 2006, which meant that the efforts of EDV to affect a boundary
change became redundant.
After de-amalgamation occurred, the EDV Group renewed its efforts towards a
proposed realignment of the Shire boundaries, and has conducted several public
meetings. EDV has held meetings with local Councils and Councillors. To ensure
that Boundary Change is still a live issue with residents, EDV commissioned an
1
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PLANNING & ORGANISATION COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA 14 OCTOBER 2014
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PLANNING & ORGANISATION COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA 14 OCTOBER 2014
indicative survey in 2014 which was carried out independently by d-sipher, a
professional and award winning Market Research organisation. EDV believes that
this survey showed a commonality of interest with the Noosa Shire, and
confirmed the very high support for boundary realignment.
EDV also commissioned Ted Fitzgerald to undertake statistical analysis based on
the 2011 census which confirmed the survey results about a community of
interest.
Council will also be aware that the Sunshine Coast council has flatly refused to
consider the EDV proposal. Minister Crisafulli has indicated that his decision to
refer a recommendation on the EDV proposed boundary change would be made
much simpler if both Councils agreed. He went on to say that in the case of one
Council disagreeing, the community case must be very strong and compelling.
EDV believes the case is compelling, and this is addressed in the body of the
submission.
Clearly for EDV to go forward, we need support from the Noosa Council. Inter
alia, it would be of benefit to have a commitment to the principles of Community
of Interest and a willingness to support EDV should the Minister see fit to make a
recommendation. In particular, we are seeking a public statement of support,
which would form an essential part of the submission to the Minister.
Thank you for receiving this Submission.
Yours Sincerely
Gohan Mele
UY
Johanne Wright
EDV President
2
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PLANNING & ORGANISATION COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA 14 OCTOBER 2014
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PLANNING & ORGANISATION COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA 14 OCTOBER 2014
ATTACHMENT 2
Noosa Hinterland
belongs in
Noosa Shire
Eumundi, Doonan, Verrierdale & Weyba Downs
residents for boundary change
Submission to Noosa Council
regarding a Boundary Change
Submitted by EDV Residents Group Inc.
September 8"" 2014
Contact person:
Bob Mirams Secretary
8 Panavista Court, Doonan 4562
0415 873 552
[email protected]]
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CONTENTS
Executive SUMMATSY ........ ccc cece ccc cece eee enn e eee ececceeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeceeeeeteeeneeeseseeeeel
Introduction. ........... cece cece e cece eee ee eee eee ence ceases eee eeeeeeeeteeeeseetetteteeeeeeeeene L
BacCkQround 2.2.0... cece cece cece cence eee ee ec eeeceeeceeceeeneeeenseenseeeeceeeesseeceseteseeseeeeee L
REQUEST 2... eee ccc ccc cece ence eee e cece ee eee eee eeeeeceeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeseeueeeeeeeesee D
Boundary Change — What is involved .............. 0... cece cece cece cece eeeeeeeeeseeesseeene
History of Local Government Boundaries in the Sunshine Coast and Cooloola
REGIONS. 2.0... ccc ccc cece cece eee e eee e cece eee e ee eeeeeeee cee eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeseseeeeseeeeeeeeeeenen D
Specific Boundary ISSUES ..............cc cece ccc eee ee eee cee cee eeececeeeeceeeeeeeseesseteseesses®
The EDV Area 2.2.2.0... eee cece nce e eee cece eee ee eect nena ceeeeeeeeeteeeeteetetesttseteteeteeees LL
Doonan (SCC component only) .......... cc cece cece cece cece eceeeeeeeeeceeeeeseeeesseeesrers 12
Verrierdale 2.0.00... ccc ccc cece cece cece cece eee e eee eeeeeeeeeeeeseeseeseessetssetseesseeseessees LD
Weyba DOWN ........... cece cccce eee cecee cece ceeecceeeeeeseccseecceecesseeeseettstettseeees 14
Our Local Community —- History of Action for Change...................2c000ee20022 15
The Present Situation ............. 0... eee eee eee eee eee eee ee eens eee ceeeeeeeeeteteeteeess L5
Stage One Results 2.2.0.2... cc cece cece eee e cece eee eeeeceeceeeeecseeeectsseeeeetsesseeseees 16
Community of Interest 2.2.0.0... 0... c cece cece cece ence cece eeeeeeeeeeecceseeeesecssseesseeeeees L7
Geography and [email protected] cece cece eee eeeeeeeceeeeceecceseeesecesseesseeeees 17
Information ..............e cece cece cence ee ee ee eee eee eee eee esse eeeeeeeeseeeteteeeeseaseeeetsees 20
Service APCAS 2... cece cee cece eee eee e eee e eens eeeeeeeeeeeeteeetteeetesseeeseeeeees 2O
Effective representation ............. ccc cece cece cece cece eeeeeceeceeeseecseseeseeetsseeessees 2O
Culture, Character and Identity ................ 0c. ccc cece cece ee cec cece eeeececeneceeeeeeeses QL
Water Catchments ............ 0... c cece eee ee cece cece ee eee ee eee ences eeeeeeeeetetteteeeeeeeees 21
Benefits for Change from a Community Perspective...................ccceeeeeeeeeees 22
Perceived Benefits for the Noosa Council ........... 0.0... e ce ceee eee eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeees 24
Perceived Benefits for the Sunshine Coast Council.....................ccceceeeeeeeees 24
Evidence of Community Support ........ 2.00.2... c eee c cece ence eeeeeeeeeeceeeceeseeeseees 2D
Submission from the EDV Group
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EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
“Noosa Hinterland belongs in Noosa Shire” is the fundamental premise of our
submission. We are not regarded as the Sunshine Coast Hinterland by either
ourselves or others.
The purpose of this submission is to seek public support from the Noosa Council
for a Change Commissioner to investigate a proposal for the area commonly
referred to as EDV to be included in the Noosa Shire.
The community has been given a window of opportunity by the Minister to bring
forward a proposal for a change for his consideration and he would be seeking a
formal response from both Councils as well as evidence that there is community
support.
The change proposed is to remove the suburbs of Doonan, Eumundi, Peregian
Beach (West), Verrierdale and Weyba Downs (hereafter referred to as EDV) from
the Sunshine Coast Council (SCC) area and include them in the Noosa Shire.
The current boundary between Noosa and the SCC is no longer relevant today. It
does not reflect the close links and strong community of interest between Noosa
and the EDV that has been established over more recent decades.
In particular, Local Government boundaries should not divide communities.
Boundary changes between Councils are relatively simple administrative
processes. They are governed by the Local Government Act 2009 and
investigated by a Change Commission within the Queensland Electoral
Commission.
The Change Commission must consider three factors:
e whether the proposed change is consistent with the Local Government
Act;
e the views of the Minister regarding the proposed change; and
e any matters prescribed by legislation.
Under the matters prescribed by legislation, community of interest is a
significant criterion and this submission outlines the very strong community of
interest between the EDV area and Noosa Shire.
There is strong community support for the proposal. The EDV Residents group
has twice assessed the level of community support within the EDV area. On both
i
Submission from the EDV Group
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occasions (in 2006 and again this year) the level of local support exceeded 80%
of residents. We will further test this following our current round of
consultations and advise Council of the outcome.
Of particular concern to many residents is future planning pressure. Under the
existing boundaries, the EDV is a prime location for developers to be able to
build large-scale developments that can capture the Noosa brand without the
associated controls that Noosa Council would require. A realignment of the
boundary to the south would overcome this potential problem.
Financial impacts of the proposal would be positive for Noosa. Current rate and
service revenue from the EDV area is approximately $4.48 million per annum.
Sunshine Coast Council has assessed its average, fully allocated, service and
infrastructure costs for the area at around $4.0 million. Noosa Council overheads
are likely to be less than Sunshine Coast so Noosa Council fully allocated cost is
likely to be less than the additional revenue.
Noosa Council presently incurs significant cost in the use of its infrastructure and
facilities by the EDV community. At present these costs are covered by a cross
subsidy from other Noosa ratepayers. A boundary realignment would ensure that
Noosa Council would have the benefit of EDV rates revenue to cover the cross
subsidises currently incurred in Noosa.
Noosa would also obtain better control on planning decisions close to the Shire
border in an area that is effectively Noosa’s “front door”. The level of density of
development that occurred with Peregian Springs is an example that is likely to
occur if EDV remains in the SC area in the longer term.
This Submission seeks the following action from Noosa Council:
"a commitment to the principle that community wishes are a key
component of government decision making and that if a majority of
residents in any or all of the suburbs in the EDV area want to belong to
Noosa Shire, then the Council would be supportive for a Change
Commissioner to investigate a boundary change;
* Confirmation that should the Boundary Commissioner support the
proposed boundary realignment, Noosa Council would welcome the
inclusion of the EDV area into the Noosa Shire; and
« A public statement of the Council’s position to be sent to the media and to
the Minister
ii
Submission from the EDV Group
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INTRODUCTION
The purpose of this submission is to seek the support of Noosa Council for a
boundary change between the Noosa local government area and the Sunshine
Coast local government area to enable the suburbs of Doonan, Eumundi,
Peregian Beach (West), Verrierdale and Weyba Downs (hereafter referred to as
EDV) to become part of Noosa Shire.
The submission provides some background to the current situation and the need
for support from the Noosa Council. It also:
*» Sets out the parameters and steps that are required for such a boundary
change to be approved by Government;
* Outlines in brief the history of local government boundaries in the
Sunshine Coast and Cooloola regions and the boundary anomalies;
« Describes the actions taken by our local community to lobby for change
over the last decade;
= Describes the physical areas of interest;
« Provides evidence for the strong shared community of interest between
the EDV and Noosa areas;
«= Addresses the issue of water catchments;
» Sets out the benefits for change from our community perspective and the
anticipated benefits to both Noosa and Sunshine Coast Councils; and
* Outlines the evidence for community support for such a change.
Under separate cover to this submission, supporting documentation is provided
including the results of commissioned independent work undertaken by Mr Ted
Fitzgerald and a survey by d-sipher.
Background
Following the de-amalgamation of the Sunshine Coast Council (hereafter called
SCC) and the establishment of the new Noosa Council on the 2nd January, 2014
the President of EDV Residents Group contacted the local State member, the
Hon Glen Elmes MLA, Member for Noosa to discuss the implications of a possible
boundary realignment to have the localities of Eumundi, Doonan, Verrierdale,
Weyba Downs and Peregian Beach (West) become part of Noosa Shire.
Mr Elmes wrote to the Minister for Local Government, Community Recovery and
Resilience, the Hon David Crisafulli MLA (hereafter called the Minister) on the
14" January and received a reply from the Minister on the 24'" January, in which
he stated that inter alia “U/timately, if the community supports the suggested
boundary change and the respective local governments can agree on a
proposal to alter the boundaries which satisfies the criteria specified in the
1
Submission from the EDV Group
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legislation, I would be prepared to consider supporting a referral to the Local
Government Change Commission for assessment” The Minister also advised
that he would need a submission by early 2015 to meet the 2016 local
government elections.
In a press release of the 18 February, 2014 Mr Crisafulli listed possible
boundary changes, as one of the pressing issues that the newly de-amalgamated
councils would have to prioritise, further reinforcing the fact that it was possible
to have a boundary change considered for those newly amalgamated Councils.
Following the advice from the Minister in January, the EDV Residents Group
Committee determined that it was important to re-start a conversation with the
local community (encompassing the suburbs of Eumundi, Doonan, Verrierdale,
Weyba Downs (and South Weyba Downs now listed as Peregian Beach (West)).
The rationale for re-starting this conversation was that although there was clear
evidence in 2006 that over 80.5% of residents and 87% of businesses supported
a boundary change, this needed to be tested with the current 2014 community.
In February 2014, The EDV Group advised both Mayors that they would be
proceeding to investigate the level of community support for a boundary change
and would make a formal approach following community consultation. These
letters were followed by informal meetings with the Mayors and CEOs of both
Councils (as well as the local Councillors representing the EDV area).
Informally, the Mayor and CEO of Noosa Council indicated they would want some
formal request in due course in order that they could do some research from
their Council’s perspective. Informally, on the 7™ July the Mayor and CEO of the
SCC agreed that they would not consider the matter formally until they had
received a formal submission from the EDV Group but requested this to be
brought forward to early September. Despite that time frame severely
compromising the community consultation process, the EDV representatives
undertook to do this. However, without warning and in total disregard of this
meeting agreement, the Mayor pre-emptively put forward a minute to the SCC
on the 24'" july which resulted in the Council refusing to support a boundary
change.
Since that time the Minister has further reiterated his statements about the
process for a boundary change in the media and in correspondence to the EDV
Group as recently as the 21% August 2014. Our reading of this material
indicates that the SCC refusal has not shut the door on the potential for a
favourable Ministerial decision, providing there is community support and one
Council in agreement.
2
Submission from the EDV Group
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Although community consultations are continuing and a definitive assessment of
the level of community support has still to be finalised, members of the local
community are now asking the question -“what is the view of the Noosa
Council”?
Accordingly, this submission has been prepared to allow the Noosa Council time
to consider the arguments ahead of our finalising our community consultation
process. Despite a small contingent of very vocal detractors in our community,
all the anecdotal and current survey data suggests that there is still strong
community support and we will know definitely by late October the extent of this
support across the different suburbs. It is our contention that together with our
demonstrating community support for a boundary change, we need strong
support from Noosa Council for the Minister to be prepared to refer the matter to
the Change Commission.
Request
We are seeking the following support from the Noosa Council:
1. A commitment to the principles of community of interest (i.e. communities
that share a common interest through geographic proximity, regular cross
border use, significant linkages and interaction and shared values should
be part of one local government area);
2. Recognition that if the community of interest between the EDV area and
Noosa is strong, that the Council would be happy to have that community
as part of the Shire;
3. Recognition that there is good evidence of the level of community interest
across the EDV area and the Noosa Shire;
4. A commitment to the principle that the community wishes are a key
component of government decision making and that if a majority of
residents in any or all of the suburbs in the EDV area want to belong to
Noosa Shire, then the Council would be supportive for a Change
Commissioner to investigate a boundary change
We are also seeking a public statement of the Council’s position to be sent to the
media and to the Minister.
3
Submission from the EDV Group
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BOUNDARY CHANGE — WHAT IS INVOLVED
Boundary changes are governed by the Local Government Act 2009 (updated
2014) and investigated by a Change Commission within the Queensland
Electoral Commission.! Only the Minister may propose a local government
change to the Change Commission (usually the Electoral Commissioner), who in
turn must assess if the change is in the public interest. The Change Commission
must consider three factors: whether the proposed change is consistent with the
Local Government Act; the views of the Minister regarding the proposed change;
and any matters prescribed by legislation. These matters include:
= Community of interest matter including the water catchment principle;
" Joint arrangements - could the issue be better addressed by joint
arrangements rather than a boundary change;
«Planning matters, in particular planning and development for the benefits
of an area, efficiency considerations and projected population growth; and
= Resource base sufficiency
The methodology for investigation is determined by the Change Commissioner
unless directed to undertake specific assessments by the Minister.
If a Change is recommended, this is implemented by the Governor-in-Council
under regulation.
The Minister has indicated that in the case of one Council disagreeing, the
community case must be very strong and compelling. The case must address
the matters prescribed in the legislation as set out above.
The Minister would want to know from the affected Councils any potential
negative impacts, whether the Councils have the resource capacity to
accommodate the change in boundary and any water catchment and planning
issues.
The community have to demonstrate as far as possible the benefits and the
extent of community of interest.
It is our understanding that we should keep open dialogue with both Councils (if
possible) and present our arguments to the affected local Councils as a prelude
to putting our community submission to the Minister.
1 Local Government Act Qid 2009
4
Submission from the EDV Group
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HISTORY OF LOCAL GOVERNMENT BOUNDARIES IN THE SUNSHINE
COAST AND COOLOOLA REGIONS
In the 19" Century all Queensland local government boundaries were drawn up
based on water catchments and rivers as these often formed useful natural
boundaries to define communities at a time of few roads and bridges.
a " . In the last 125 years there have
- = 4 been a number of significant
55 boundary changes in the Sunshine
LL — 5 Coast Region, mainly in response to
4) increased population and changed
4 ' & settlement patterns. In all there
2 =" pa oa : _ have been nine major changes
" a) I usually encompassing splitting new
= , Ih , local government areas into smaller
5 = Ps units, but also _ incorporating
te boundary realignments such as the
, incorporation of Buderim and
a i ' ~ Kenilworth into Maroochy Shire?
“ . ; _ and the southern end of Peregian
~* Beach into Noosa Shire in 2003.?
When the Local Government Reform Commission was established to investigate
Council amalgamations in 2007 our community argued strongly for Noosa Shire
not to be amalgamated with Maroochy and Caloundra Shires but instead to make
a boundary change to incorporate the EDV areas into Noosa. This was
supported by the Coolum and Peregian Springs communities who argued that
2 In 1879, part of the area north of Brisbane was called the Caboolture Division and encompassed some of the
current Moreton and all of the Sunshine Coast local authority areas. North of Caboolture Division, Widgee
Division included the area north of Caboolture as far as Gympie. Maroochy shire (then Division) split away
from Caboolture in 1890 and much later on Buderim in the south and Kenilworth in the north east became part
of that Shire. The Noosa Shire was formed by being excised from Widgee Shire together with a small strip
along the northern border of Maroochy in 1909 and was formally established in 1910. The Shire of
Landsborough was split away from Caboolture in 1912 and in 1987 was renamed the City of Caloundra.
3 In the early 1990s, the State Government undertook a major review of local government boundaries across
Queensland inviting submissions from local government. At the time, the Noosa Council made a submission
based on the following areas being included in Noosa Shire in order of priority:
= First, the whole of the Lake Macdonald catchment (at the time Noosa’s only source of raw water) with
some of the catchment outside of the Shire);
= Second, the whole of the Lake Weyba catchment;
. Third, the whole of the urban area of Peregian Beach.
No changes were made to the Noosa boundaries at that time; however pressure for change continued with
momentum gathering for the southern area of Peregian Beach to be shifted into Noosa Shire which occurred in
2003.
5
Submission from the EDV Group
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Eye PROPOSAL FOR A BOUNDARY CHANGE
not only EDV but their communities should become part of Noosa Shire.
Unfortunately, the Commission’s terms of reference did not include the capacity
to look at boundary change outside of the existing council boundaries.
In 2008 the Sunshine Coast Regional Council was created incorporating Noosa,
Maroochy and Caloundra. In 2014 the Noosa Shire separated from that Council
area and was re-established as a separate entity.
In 2014, the boundary that separates Noosa Shire and the Sunshine Coast
Council area is substantially unchanged to that created over 104 years ago’
when river crossings defined the ease of access, when roads and bridges were
few and far between, when the Noosa Shire offices were located in Pomona and
Nambour was the primary centre for the Maroochy Shire. Then the population in
the EDV Noosa hinterland area numbered in the hundreds.
In 1910 the traditional land use in the EDV area was farming, with a particular
focus on dairying — delivering milk and butter, first to local factories, then to
more distant factories at Nambour. Population and its density were low. At that
time it was arguable and even sensible that the EDV area should comprise part
of the then Maroochy Shire.
But times have changed. While small amounts of agriculture still occur in the
EDV area, the most dominant land use across the landscape is rural settlement —
essentially residential living on large lots. These lots have been generated out of
the former farms. This has seen a manyfold increase in population. Whereas the
farming focus on Nambour was once normal and natural, it is no more. The
closer centres (both rural and coastal) in the Noosa Shire are now more
attractive to the majority of population in the EDV area. (See Figure One)
This boundary is no longer relevant today
and does not reflect the links and close ties
of different communities
4 The one change of significance was the inclusion of South Peregian Beach in 2003
6
Submission from the EDV Group
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Figure One: Map of distances between EDV, Noosa and SC
Sa
NO? 5 | Res
EDV
yy Sky ply i
: Coolum
5 Beach
7
Submission from the EDV Group
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Specific Boundary Issues
As stated above, the current boundary is still largely based on boundaries
established a century ago at a time when the area comprised a small number of
private land holdings (operating as farms)°. Since that time settlement patterns
have changed significantly and many new roads and subdivisions have been
created.
The current boundary cuts suburbs and streets and isolates Weyba Downs. It is
no longer a relevant boundary for today’s environment.
There are different implications for each of the suburbs with respect to the
current boundaries.
Doonan: One third of Doonan is in Noosa Shire and two thirds is in SCC. This
is a source of much angst among residents, particularly those close to the border
of the two local government areas. Within Doonan, a number of streets are
bisected by the electoral boundary as follows:
= Sunrise Road, half way between the intersection with Wust Road and
Brushtail Lane
= Beddington Road, near Pheasant Lane
= Pheasant Lane
*» Eumundi Noosa Road at the roundabout with Emu Mountain Road
Other roads such as Fellowship Drive and parts of Eumarella Road have one side
of the road in Noosa Shire and the other in SCC.
Local Government boundaries should not divide
communities. Doonan is a suburb divided —
another argument for a boundary change
Weyba Downs: Weyba Downs (together with the renamed Peregian Beach
(West)) is in an isolated pocket surrounded by Noosa Shire. Critically it borders
the north western and southern part of Lake Weyba and as a catchment area
situated directly on the shores of the lake, it is integral to the ecological health
of the lake. There are two distinct residential areas, one accessed from
Eumarella Road and the other by Murdering Creek Road. They are separated by
a segment of Noosa National Park. In the southern section, three of the roads
> The oldest map which outlines the current boundary between the two Shires that the Group have been able
to identify was drawn in 1910. This showed the northern boundary between the two shires was based on farm
boundaries. Perusal of later maps in 1924, and 1967 did not appear to show changes but a map in 1984
showed that there were some minor variations made to the boundary. The boundary therefore was slightly
altered between 1967 and 1984 and apparently no further changes have been made since that time.
8
Submission from the EDV Group
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By PROPOSAL FOR A BOUNDARY CHANGE
have the Shire boundary passing down the center of the road (Mary Anne Drive,
Win Road and part of Clarendon Road). See Figure Two.
Figure Two: Weyba Downs
0 1 2
_ a
Noosa Shire
Doonan
Noosa Shire
Verrierdale |
Local Government boundaries should not
divide communities. Weyba Downs is isolated
and is surrounded by Noosa Shire to the north
and east- another argument for a boundary
change
9
Submission from the EDV Group
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Eumundi: There are two streets that are bisected by the electoral boundary:
* Solar Road (a small dogleg at the end of Solar Road is in Noosa Shire)
* Mount Cooroy Road at the point where it becomes Kings Road
The boundary crosses Eumundi Range Road at the intersection with Martins
Road, so that part of Eumundi Range Road is in Noosa Shire and the remainder
in SCC.
Minor boundary anomalies should be
corrected so as not to divide neighbors
Verrierdale: This suburb is the most southern section of the area of interest
and all streets are in SCC. It has no adjoining boundaries with Noosa Shire.
Related Boundaries: The State Electorate boundary for Noosa encompasses
the suburbs of Doonan, Eumundi, Verrierdale and Weyba Downs, providing yet
another argument to consider adjustment to the current boundary.
New Boundaries are required for the New
Millennium. Boundaries are arbitrary lines on a
map and are not sacrosanct.
A detailed description of the suburbs in question and the proposed boundary
change are Set out in the next section.
10
Submission from the EDV Group
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THE EDV AREA
The area that is the subject of a request for a boundary change has been
referred to as the Noosa Hinterland by local residents and is identical to the area
that has been the subject of submissions to the State Government and to
Councils from 2006 onwards. Figure Three shows the area in question (yellow)
tucked in the southern end of Noosa Shire (green) and being part of the
northern most part of the Sunshine Coast area (Purple).
Figure Three: Map of EDV Area
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The area in question is 89 sq kilometres (compared to 2,290.6 sq ks in the
Sunshine Coast and 872.1 sq ks in Noosa). The land mass represents 3.89% of
a
Submission from the EDV Group
Page 79 of 117Section 30
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Ey PROPOSAL FOR A BOUNDARY CHANGE
the SCC area and if it became part of Noosa it would represent 9.26% of the
Noosa Shire land mass).
The total number of rateable properties in the EDV area are 2,749 compared to
141,954 in the SCC overall (1.9%) and the general rates income from these EDV
dwellings to the SCC represents 1.86% of their overall general rates revenue.
The EDV area is a very small and relatively
insignificant part of the SCC, the loss of which
would not impact on the SCC.
A breakdown of each suburb follows.
Doonan (SCC component only)
No of people on electoral
roll: 1,285 he ae
Land area: 2,319.17 9 on
hectares a a
Rateable properties: 8 | N
1,138 Bia ,
Average rates pa f
2013/14: $1,232 js
Median house price hy
2013: $585,500 er |
Zoning: Primarily rural 7 a
residential
Description: a 2
Doonan was first settled Lo
in the late 1800s and its
name’s origin is unclear but thought to mean “leaf of a tree”. Early settlers were
timber fellers or farmers. Today it is described as “a suburb nestled in the leafy
Noosa Valley” and the majority of farms have been replaced with residences on
acreage. There are a Surprising number of businesses tucked away in various
locations and a number easily visible on the Eumundi Noosa Road. One third of
Doonan is in the Noosa Shire and two thirds in the SCC.
Eumundi
No of people on Electoral roll: 1,410
Land area: 2,287.53 hectares
Rateable properties: 968
Average rates pa 2013/14: $1,201
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Median house price 2013: $487,000
Zoning: Mixed with commercial, residential, rural residential and some rural
Description:
Eumundi was settled in the early
a $ —~__-: 1850s with three cattle leases and the
oe name is thought to be derived from
"Ngumundi" or "Huomundy", the name
of a local Aboriginal warrior. The town
was established in the 1900s to
support the settlers who established
the timber industry. The railway was
built in 1891. Today, Eumundi has
i been referred to as the “Gateway to
Noosa” and is best known for its
famous twice weekly markets, its
lovely heritage buildings and the
sree beautiful heritage-listed fig trees that
line the main street.
Verrierdale
~~~ No of people on Electoral roll: 239
Land area: 2,988.67 hectares
Rateable properties: 330
Average rates pa 2013/14: $1,364
Median house price 2013: $544,000
Zoning: Primarily rural
with some rural |
residential
Description: — Wii
Verrierdale was_ also Mees
settled in the late 1800s ie
and has retained to this
day many large rural
landholdings as well as uma
larger rural residential |
blocks. Verrierdale’s i Fag
history is not as well ;
documented as is_ its 6 ase
neighbours. Today, roe
Verrierdale is noted for
its tranquillity and
pleasant rural lifestyle and the centre of activity is at the Verrierdale Hall which
hosts many community events including the now quite famous Moon Dance.
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Weyba Downs
(Including the renamed Peregian Beach West area)
No of people on Electoral roll: 530
Land area: 1,304.007 hectares
Rateable properties: 313
Average rates pa 2013/14: $1,201
Median house price 2013: $629,000
Zoning: Rural residential and rural
Description:
Weyba Downs until the mid
State —— Sion 1980’s was part of Doonan and
kilometres $ was settled in the late 1800
following exploration of the area
in 1862. Its name is considered
to be derived from an abbreviated
form of the Yugumbir word
"waiam" which can mean either
‘flying squirrel’ or 'stingray' (there
were and are many stingrays in
Lake Weyba). Today this area is
best known ffor its strong
connection to Lake Weyba and for
its habitat protection — it includes
part of Noosa National Park and is
time close to wetlands. Circa 2009, the
area off Murdering Creek Rd
is previously known as _ Weyba
ir Downs was renamed Peregian
Beach (West) after a campaign by
local residents who _ justifiably
— consider their area as part of the
adjoining Peregian Beach.
described as EDV as it was thought to be too
confusing to add WD & PB to the moniker.
These areas comprise the same area for a
boundary change as argued for in 2006 by
the local community.
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OuR LOCAL COMMUNITY — HISTORY OF ACTION FOR CHANGE
There is evidence going back to 1918 that the residents of EDV have had major
concerns about the boundary.°®
In January 2004, these concerns were rekindled when the EDV Residents Group
(previously the EDV Action Group) was formed following two community
meetings when residents expressed a strong preference to be part of Noosa
Shire. At that time there were three Councils in the region (Noosa, Maroochy
and Caloundra).
The EDV Action Group undertook consultations and then a major door knock of
all residents to assess the level of community support for a boundary change
during 2005.’
What did we find - Over 80.5% of residents supported a boundary change
as did 87% of local businesses.
We prepared a major submission for the Size, Shape and Sustainability Program
in January 2006 outlining these findings and all of the methodology, and
including the letters of support. However, the forced amalgamations effectively
ended the campaign.
The Present Situation
In 2014, we have been given a unique opportunity by the Minister for Local
Government to revisit the issue, following the de-amalgamation of the Noosa
Shire and as part of his commitment to allow this issue to be considered only
after de-amalgamation. Since 2006, many people have moved away and others
have come with no knowledge of the history. Anecdotal information indicated
that in this period (2006 to 2014) potentially up to 30% of residents could have
changed. We knew that a new housing estate had been developed north of
Eumundi with new residents moving in, many of whom were young families
®° The EDV community lobbied both the Maroochy Shire and the State Government for a boundary change as
documented in the Chronicle and North Coast Advertiser in November 1918 and in The Cooroy Rag in 1929.
7 To ascertain if the feeling from initial meetings translated into wider community support, the Group firstly
established what was needed to change a boundary by reviewing legislation and determined that a key
component was the need to demonstrate community of interest.. The Group undertook a survey to find out
where our “community of interest” lay - was it Noosa or Maroochy? - The results demonstrated major links
with Noosa that was further validated by hard data from other studies. The Group consulted widely on the
suggested boundary change which included all of Eumundi, Doonan, Verrierdale and Weyba Downs (part of
which is now called Peregian Beach West). Group representatives approached our then local Councillor to
discuss what we would need to do to demonstrate to Maroochy Council the level of community support - he
demanded a letter affirming that support from the majority of residents as proof. Accordingly, we doorknocked
every household in the area in late 2005 (over 2,500 homes) to establish if there was support for a boundary
change to bring us into Noosa Shire. We obtained signed letters of support from more than 85% of all
residents and at least 70% of businesses.
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(according to advice from the local child care centre). We also knew that during
this time, some 10% of our members as at 2006 had moved out of the district.
We realised we needed to repeat the research and establish if our 2006 findings
were applicable today.
Accordingly, we developed and are currently implementing a two stage process
to ascertain if the residents still support a boundary change.
1. Stage One (May to July): Revisit the concept of community of interest and
ascertain where the primary community of interest is for our area:
a. Gather data on our current community’s demographic profile, its
links with Surrounding areas and relevant economic and planning
information (undertaken by Ted Fitzgerald and documented in
Attachment Two);
b. Undertake a survey of residents to establish their personal linkages
(undertaken by d-sipher, an award winning market research
company and their report is in Attachment Three) and
c. Share the survey and demographic data with the local community
and seek input on the information presented.
2. Stage Two (August to October): Dependent on the results of the survey,
take active measures to document the level of community support for a
boundary change:
a. Identify key reasons for support for or against a boundary changes
from residents so as to provide information for both Councils on
resident views;
b. Present findings to the community;
c. Research and document potential benefits for both Councils
following informal discussions with each Council; and
d. Determine the best methodology to provide valid evidence of the
level of community support and implement this.
Stage One Results
Both survey and factual analysis showed very similar findings to that obtained in
2006 (i.e. strong community of interest links with Noosa Shire, far less
so with the Sunshine Coast and 80% indicating support for a boundary
change versus 13% against). This provided a base from which to undertake
further community consultation.
These results were reported back to three community meetings and at those
meetings a number of questions were asked. The questions in the main related
to benefits for a change, rates, the opportunity for people to have a say and the
survey results. These meetings achieved a key objective - to restart the
conversation in our community.
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COMMUNITY OF INTEREST
Under regulation there are a number of key elements that constitute a
community of interest:
«= Reflect local communities such as the geographical pattern of human
activity and linkages between local communities
" Have a centre/s of administration and service easily accessible to its
population
" Ensure effective elected representation for residents and ratepayers
= Have external boundaries that do not divide local neighbourhoods, follow
water catchment principles and do no dissect properties
Geography and Linkages
In 2006, residents in the EDV area were heavily using the facilities of the Noosa
Shire as illustrated by survey data, a McNair Anderson study of use of Noosa
Council facilities such as libraries, sporting faculties, shopping centres and clubs
and a study of commuting along the Eumundi Noosa road. They also relied
heavily on the local Noosa newspapers for information, as no free papers from
further south were ever distributed in the EDV area.
In 2014, nothing has changed. The commissioned 2014 Survey® which
canvassed a sample of 10% of households across the EDV area showed the
following:
= 81% of residents shopped in Noosa for their groceries and food often or
very often (once a fortnight or one or more times a week) compared with
49% of residents often or very often shopping in Eumundi or Doonan;
43% in Cooroy, and 18% in areas further South such as Peregian Springs,
Nambour and with only 8% in Maroochydore;
* When shopping for clothing, electrical goods and household items, the
Noosa areas stands out above all other shopping areas (46% of
respondents shopping in Noosa often or very often) followed next by 14%
who shopped on line and 7% who went to Nambour or Maroochydore;
» EDV respondents also indicated that their regular doctor in mainly located
in Noosa area (57%) followed by 16% in Cooroy 13% in Eumundi. Only
5% went to Nambour or Yandina;
*" Of the EDV residents who said that they or their children were attending
an educational institution (there were 28 different educational institutions
accessed across a wide geographical spread), 28% go to one or other of
the local state schools in the EDV area, 31% go to an institution in the
Sunshine Coast and 41% go to an institution in Noosa
8 A copy of this survey is provided under separate cover
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= Of those EDV respondents who are working, 52% reported that they work
locally in the EDV area, 25% work in the Noosa Shire and 18% work
somewhere else in the Sunshine Coast Council area
= Membership of clubs and groups is a key indicator of community linkages
and 67% of EDV respondents belonged to at least one club or group, with
the majority being involved in more than one and up to six groups. In
five of the six group categories, the groups are based in the Noosa Coastal
area (27% for sporting clubs, 19% for arts and culture; 10% for other
community groups, 8% for community service organisations, 4% for
business groups/networks and 1% for family child groups). The one
exception to this is other community groups where 16% of respondents
are involved in local EDV groups. Involvement in groups in other parts of
the Sunshine Coast is very low, the highest percentage being 8% for
sporting clubs
«= When asked the areas that people would see as “their community”, the
contrast was stark, the highest responses were for the EDV area, followed
by areas in the Noosa Shire, a very small percentage of respondents
identified with Nambour/Yandina (5%) or Maroochy (3%)
This survey data is similar to a focus group community mapping exercise
undertaken by Town Planning Students at the University of the Sunshine Coast
where participants from the EDV area almost without exception demonstrated
very strong links with Noosa (for shopping, recreation, use of services,
community groups etc.) with only a small number of linkages with Nambour or
Maroochydore.
Another anecdotal source of the links between Noosa and the EDV area was a
survey of visitors to Eumundi on two non-market days together with a survey of
individuals in a local Doonan café’.
Data from a recent Festival held at Eumundi, showed that visitors outside the
local area predominately came from the Noosa Shire, with lesser numbers from
elsewhere on the Sunshine Coast.
These demonstrate that the linkages go both ways with many Noosa residents
having an affinity with the EDV area.
9 It must be stressed that this is non-scientific and based on approaching individuals to give out an invitation
to a public meeting and prefacing the invitation with a question as to whether the person was local or not. The
results: Of just over 50 individuals who were approached, 40% lived locally, 45% were visiting from Noosa
Shire (particularly Cooroy and Noosaville), 15% were tourists day tripping from Noosa, and 10% were visiting
from somewhere on the Sunshine Coast (Kenilworth, Coolum, Belli Park, Yandina).
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Demographic analysis undertaken by Ted Fitzgerald based on the 2011 census
data provided collaborative evidence from hard data to support these findings?®
He showed that there are far more similarities with the EDV population
characteristics and Noosa Shire population than with the SC population such as:
" More residents in the EDV area live closer to Noosa based services than to
SC based services;
" EDV residents are older than Sunshine Coast but slightly younger than
Noosa;
"More work from home (EDV 13.3%, Noosa 10.7%, Sunshine Coast 7.2%;
» EDV and Noosa have similar patterns of part time employment, more so
than the Sunshine Coast;
» Both EDV and Noosa have relatively lower density communities than the
Sunshine Coast (97.5%, 96.2% and 76.5% respectively);
Ted undertook a population gravity modelling of census data which revealed
that:
* Doonan’s strongest link is with Noosa, Noosaville, Tewantin followed by
Coolum and Peregian Springs;
» Eumundi linkages are almost equally divided between Greater Noosa and
Nambour; and
" Verrierdale and Weyba Downs have Greater Noosa as the strongest link
followed by Coolum and Peregian Springs.
Other data based evidence includes:
« Eumundi State School data on the destination of 2012 and 2013
graduates shows that more students entered a high school in Noosa Shire
than in the Sunshine Coast area (2012 of the 70% of known destinations—
60% to Noosa Shire, 5% to SC; 2013 - over 90% to Noosa Shire )
"Parish records for a number of denominations showing that the EDV area
is included in Noosa, not in the Sunshine Coast (e.g. Noosa District
Catholic Parish);
«Licences offered for radio stations to operate are based on serving the
interests of the community within its region - Noosa Community Radio’s
licence includes the EDV area as part of its community; and
«Practical examples of collaboration between Eumundi organisations and
organisations in the Noosa Shire (e.g. The Eumundi Chamber of
Commerce is affiliated with the Noosa Chamber of Industry and
Commerce; the Cooroy Rotary Club has established a Eumundi Chapter;
the Cooroora Uniting Football Club and the Cooroy Eumundi Cricket Club
have a shared catchment of Cooroy and district and Eumundi and district;
The Eumundi District and Community Organisation includes Cooroy in
1° A copy of this is presented under separate cover
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their district) There are no obvious similar arrangements’ with
organisations in the EDV local area and SC organisations
Noosa Council have been requested to provide statistics as to the extent of use
of Noosa services such as the Library by residents of EDV and these are being
compiled at present.
Information
In 2006, the data showed that EDV residents obtained most of their information
about what is happening locally from Noosa based media. Very little has
changed in the interim other than a newly formed local magazine, Eumundi
Green (now called the Green) has captured the largest share of the market.
The three main sources of information about local events and activities are the
Eumundi Green (89%), Noosa News (73%) and Noosa Today (61%). The
Nambour Chronicle and the Sunshine Valley Gazette (“connecting Hinterland
communities”) are not circulated in the EDV area and attract very little online
interest.
Service Areas
The close alignment with Noosa Shire means that the majority of EDV residents
regularly use Noosa based services as the distances to access these services are
very short compared to accessing services that are much further away in the
SCC.
Effective representation
There are a total of 3,464 electors on the electoral roll for the EDV area
(compared to 189,294 in SSC and 36,121 in Noosa), which represents 1.8% of
the number of electors in the SCC
area. If the area becomes part of % of all votes 2012 - Div 10 - Cr Rogerson
Noosa Shire then the electors would Kenilworth [I
represent 8.75% of that shire. cummundl a
Kureelpa |
The results of the last Council elections let a
show that the residents of the EDV Nambour West
ambour Wes
area had little impact on the outcome. —
For Division 10, just over 5% of votes \ evans
from the EDV area went to the co as
successful candidate whose main
power base is in Nambour. 0.0% 5.0% 10.0% 15.0% 20.0% 25.0% 30.0%
Similarly, for Division 9, the EDV area of the division is on the northern edge and
will struggle to get significant support. Just under 10% of votes from the EDV
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went to the successful candidate whose power base is Bli Bli. In effect both
Councillors could well have been elected without one person in our area voting.
This situation is only going to deteriorate when more and more people populate
the SC as the push is to build the southern part of the Shire with population
growth projections measuring in the tens of thousands over the next decade.
We cannot and will not be able to be effectively represented, given our minnow
size compared to the rest of the Sunshine Coast and we will struggle to be able
to obtain any priority in infrastructure spending, such as demonstrated in Ted
Fitzgerald’s report.
Culture, Character and Identity
The residents of the EDV area share many common values with the Noosa Shire
such as a respect for the environment (i.e. the Noosa Biosphere Ltd approached
the residents of the EDV area to jointly prepare a submission to UNESCO to have
this area included in the Noosa Biosphere); a respect for the heritage value and
character of small towns; a preference for balanced development which respects
the desires of local residents as well as the future residents; and a commitment
to quality over quantity when it comes to development projects.
Any casual observer coming into the EDV area is struck by the obvious branding
of Noosa that has been used by developers to market our area as part of Noosa
(Noosa Valley Drive, Botanica Noosa, Noosa Panorama to name but a few).
Likewise, many local businesses have included the word Noosa in their branding
(e.g. Noosa Hinterland Realty, Fruits of Noosa, Noosa Reds) and have signs
advertising this in the EDV area. Indeed Eumundi describes itself as “the
gateway to Noosa”. There are no equivalent visual signs that suggest we are
part of the Sunshine Coast.
Water Catchments
Lake Weyba is a very important water catchment area for Noosa. If Weyba
Downs and Peregian Beach (West) were part of Noosa Shire this would enable
better management of Lake Weyba. The Lake itself is in Noosa Shire and the
land in the north and east is in Noosa Shire. The western and southern areas of
the lake are in the Sunshine Coast Council area. If all of the surrounding lands
were within one shire, decisions on land usage that could affect water
management could be more effectively managed. No better illustration of this
could be made than the current complexity of managing the decision making
around the Noosa on Weyba development project.
Keyser Creek which is within the proposed development area of the Noosa on
Weyba project, would have been tragically affected by the run off of this
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development as it traverses the highest density section of the proposal which is
located in the Sunshine Coast local government area and then drains directly
into Lake Weyba.
Doonan Creek runs into Peregian Springs and then into the Lake Weyba
catchment.
Six Mile Creek in Doonan runs into Lake MacDonald, Noosa’s other significant
water catchment area and the main source of water for the Shire.
The catchment area for the North Maroochy River includes the Eumundi
township area, one argument against this area being included in a boundary
change.
However, under planning principles and hierarchies, we argue that community of
interest overrides this water catchment argument.
BENEFITS FOR CHANGE FROM A COMMUNITY PERSPECTIVE
The proposed benefits for a boundary change for the residents of the Noosa
Hinterland to become part of Noosa Shire are:
1. First and foremost the community of interest argument in its various
forms as articulated in this submission.
2. Our strong links - there are so many examples of linkages with
organisations that are in our area and in Noosa and so many Noosa
based organisations who have many members from our area - far more
so than similar linkages with organisations in the Sunshine Coast.
3. Our geography - For many of us the obvious fact that we are so
geographically aligned and closer to the key centres in Noosa Shire than
the Sunshine Coast Shire is a “no brainer” benefit - if for all intents and
purposes we have so much day to day contact AND use Noosa Shire
facilities, it makes sense to be part of that Shire.
4. The inescapable facts of geography and demography mean that the
primary focus for the SCC will be the Maroochy and Caloundra area. This
will be increasingly the case as Caloundra South and other large
developments are completed. The “centre of gravity” for the SCC is
shifting inexorably to the south. Nambour is no longer the Principal
Activity Centre —- this is now the Maroochy CBD.
5. The big march South - There are thousands of extra people who are
coming to live in the South of the Sunshine Coast over the coming
decade into already approved developments - we might be 2% of the
population now, but over time this percentage will become even smaller
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- so how do we compete for attention when we are a small fish in a very,
very large sea? The answer is that you can’t!
6. Future planning pressure. As the closest area to Noosa, the EDV under
the SCC is a prime area for future developers to be able to build large
scale developments that can capture the Noosa brand without the
associated controls that Noosa Council would require. Think “Noosa on
Weyba”. If the boundary moves south then such developments will be
either under Noosa Council control or outside the Noosa ‘catchment’.
Noosa will then have the planning ‘green belt’ both it and EDV need.
7. Planning philosophies - SCC is a large, growing and development focused
Council with a vision to develop the “City of the Sunshine Coast”. There
is nothing at all wrong with such a vision — but most people who have
come to live in the EDV area want a rural residential lifestyle and
protection of the unique characteristics of our many lovely small towns —-
something that is deeply embedded in Noosa’s planning philosophies and
endorsed by its residents. Both Noosa and EDV would have better
protection of amenity over the long term if the EDV area was part of the
Noosa Council area.
8. Representation and voting power - our area as previously noted has
some 3,840 electors on the role (597 or 15% are in Div 10 and the
remainder (85%) are in Div 9). In the last local government elections,
votes from our area had virtually no impact on the outcome and both
local Councillors would have been elected without our vote. In terms of
the whole of the Sunshine Coast we represent just over 2% of the total
population.
9. Efficiencies - The simple facts of locality for servicing EDV from Noosa
rather than from Maroochydore, means that a southward move of the
boundary is likely to involve financial efficiencies and benefits for both
Councils.
10.More bang for our rates buck! Bigger is not necessarily better when it
comes to spending our rate money. Noosa Council is committed to
maintaining a lean and efficient organisation with more resources
directed to service provision and less to bureaucracy - that is a great
benefit to ratepayers who are facing a potential rates time bomb with the
mounting debt occurring in the SCC relating to unresolved infrastructure
charges for Caloundra South, the cost of purchasing the Horton Golf Club
for the Maroochy CBD among other matters.
11.Supporting our economy - Eumundi is working hard to become more
than a market town and to boost its visitor potential with all the flow on
economic benefits that brings. Experience Eumundi is visible proof of that
commitment. During amalgamation, Tourism Noosa was supporting
Eumundi and is strongly committed to rebuild that relationship,
something that can only occur if the EDV area moves to Noosa Shire.
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Perceived Benefits for the Noosa Council
1. Rates revenue - at present the EDV area contributes $4.48m in revenue
pa to the SCC and costs the SC $4m on an average, fully allocated basis
to service and provide infrastructure. Given the small difference in
revenue and expenditure, this is effectively a rates neutral situation.
However, with the major extent of cross border traffic and use of Noosa
facilities by the EDV community, NC would at least have the benefit of
this revenue without having to cross subsidise EDV
2. Building more of an integrated hinterland Tourism experience would
broaden the experiences currently offered under the Noosa brand, similar
to the successful “Sunshine Coast Hinterland” branded destinations of the
Montville/Maleny area. The inclusion of the Eumundi Markets within the
Shire would value add further to the cache of the Noosa Brand.
3. Coordinated management of Lake Weyba, its catchment area and creeks
would facilitate unified management of the greater Noosa River and lake
system.
4. Better control on planning decisions close to the Shire border (e.g. the
level of density of development that occurred with Peregian Springs is an
example that is likely to occur if EDV remains in the SC area in the longer
term.
5. Provide improved capacity to effectively manage appropriate usage and
demand on existing and planned future services and infrastructure within
the Noosa area as the boundary re-alignment would provide a buffer
from the development pressures currently being experienced by
proposals such as Noosa on Weyba.
Perceived Benefits for the Sunshine Coast Council
1. The SCC geographic area is significant and over twice the size of Brisbane
City and Gold Coast City and excising some 89 square kms from northern
part of the Shire would reduce the coverage and workload of the
Councillors
2. Given the significant focus to the South with the number of major projects
occurring south of the Maroochy river, excising the EDV area would enable
more attention to be paid to these areas
3. The loss of the EDV area is essentially rates neutral and would not impact
in any negative way on the Council budget
4. Having the catchment for Lake Weyba totally under the control of the
Noosa Council would alleviate the SCC of the complexities of responding
to current or future development applications
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PLANNING & ORGANISATION COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA 14 OCTOBER 2014
EDV PROPOSAL FOR A BOUNDARY CHANGE
EVIDENCE OF COMMUNITY SUPPORT
In 2006, the level of community support for a boundary change was 80.5% of all
residents. At that time 14% of residents were opposed and 12.5% were
undecided or indifferent’?. This finding was replicated in the recent community
survey when residents were asked "What are your views about Eumundi,
Doonan, Verrierdale and Weyba Downs areas joining up with the Noosa Shire
Council? Figure Four shows the percentage answering each option.
Figure Four: Support for Boundary Change
10 80%
20 “i favour" or ‘strongly in feveut™
80
*0 69
60
30
”1 40 7 11
10 3
=. me |
Strongly Against Undecided Infavour Strongly in
against favour
The results show that 80% of respondents are in favour of a change and 13%
are against. Seven percent were undecided. That this survey results are so
similar to that from nine years previously was encouraging and provided the
impetus to further engage with the community.”
The survey data also shows that residents hold quite strong views on this
subject with the extreme ends of the spectrum (i.e. strongly in favour or
strongly against) having higher percentages than the more moderate statements
(i.e. in favour or against).
Following the survey data being published and ongoing consultations with the
community, it appears that there remains a significant level of support for
change, as well as a number who remain strongly opposed.
EDV are currently finalising their consultation process with the community and
will then undertake a definitive process to confirm (or otherwise) the initial
survey results and will present this to the Council in October for comment prior
to finalising their submission to the Minister.
11 A suburb by suburb breakdown of the 2005 door knock results showed that the highest level of support
came from Doonan (82.5%), followed by Eumundi (81%), Weyba Downs (78%) and Verrierdale (75%)
12 Tt should be noted that 78% of respondents were not EDV members, indicating a that the survey had been
completed by a broad cross section of our community
25
Submission from the EDV Group
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ATTACHMENT 3
Eumundi, Doonan, Verrierdale
and Weyba Downs (EDV)
Research to inform a potential
boundary re-alignment.........
presented by Ted FitzGerald
Considering the EDV concept from 3 viewpoints
* Demographics
* Geography, services & resident interaction
¢ Political representation
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PLANNING & ORGANISATION COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA 14 OCTOBER 2014
rd
4
The realities of |
geography "
The realities of scale
Area comparisons - (Km2)
The limited scale of 89
the EDV area makes
it difficult to oe
command attention
and attract public
sector resources ee
and infrastructure —_
es EDV «= Noosa (ex EDV) m# Sunshine Coast (ex EDV)
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More realities of scale.........
Area differences in EDV (Ha.)
At the local Weyba Downs, 620
level the same
in fluences are Eumundi, 2,288 Verrierdale, 2,989
at work.
Doonan &
Verrierdale are
larger in area
than Eumundi.
Doonan, 2,319
The realities of demography
Demography is the Population differences 2011
other defining SI imme 51.032
element. It is at the
heart of the
political process
that shapes delivery —_—
of public services
and infrastructure
= EDV = Noosa = Sunshine Coast
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More realities of demography...
The la rgest number Population comparisons in EDV 2011
of EDV residents Weyba Downs, 313
live in Doonan. ——
More residents live
closer to Noosa
based services than so
SC based services.
Eumundi, 1,924
Resident’s characteristics - Similarities
Median Age - 2011
EDV — older than
Sunshine Coast but
slightly younger §
than Noosa
Noosa EDV Sunshine Brisbane
Coast
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Resident’s characteristics - Differences
Tertiary educated
EDV — above
average number
of residents with
tertiary education PE
Brisbane EDV median Noosa Sunshine Coast
Resident’s characteristics.... more differences
Median H'hold income pa - 2011
EDV residents have a
higher income
profile than both _——
Noosa and the Se |
. ee} -
Sunshine Coast $52,868
Brisbane EDV Noosa Sunshine
Coast
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PLANNING & ORGANISATION COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA 14 OCTOBER 2014
Resident’s characteristics... and more differences
Worked from home -2011
Census figures
(2011) indicate a
high level of
residents worked 13.3%
from home, as is
the case in Noosa
EDV Noosa Sunshine Brisbane
Coast
Resident’s characteristics — more similarities
Separate House - 2011
Both EDV and Noosa
have relatively lower
density communities
. 97.5%
than the Sunshine _
Coast
EDV Noosa Sunshine Brisbane
Coast
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Resident’s characteristics — again, more similarities
In rented accommodation- 2011
EDV and Noosa have
significantly fewer
residents in rented
dwellings than the CWE
Sunshine Coast
20.0% SE)
Brisbane Sunshine Noosa EDV
Coast
Resident’s characteristics — some differences
4+ vehicles at home -2011
EDV residents have a
higher number of
dwellings with —
multiple vehicles oe
_ 4.1%
EDV median Noosa Sunshine Brisbane
Coast
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Resident’s characteristics.... employment
In Fulltime Employment- 2011
Again, EDV
employment
patterns tend to be
similar to Noosa, eer
rather than the saat 48.6%
Sunshine Coast
Brisbane Sunshine Coast Noosa EDV median
Resident’s characteristics... part-time employment
In PartTime Employment- 2011
EDV and Noosa
have similar
patterns of part
time
employment, ae
27.8%
more so than
the Sunshine
Coast
EDV median Noosa Sunshine Coast Brisbane
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PLANNING & ORGANISATION COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA 14 OCTOBER 2014
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PLANNING & ORGANISATION COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA 14 OCTOBER 2014
Linkages, movement, interaction - Doonan
Chart 4 - Strength of population gravity model linkage to Doonan
Using a ‘population —
gravity modelling’ ws
process Doonan’s cn
strongest linkis with |
Noosa, Noosaville, .
Tewantin followed by _
Spring —
Coolum, Peregian
Linkages, movement, interaction - Eumundi
Using the same -
methodology ~
Eumundi linkages |~
and almost -
equally divided -
between Greater -
Noosa and "
Nambour NE ae
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Linkages, movement, interaction — Verrierdale
Chart 5 - Strength of eee gravity model linkage to
For Verrierdale . Verrierdale/Weyba Downs
and Weyba .
Downsthesame _
process pointsto _
Greater Noosa
as the strongest ~—
link followed by ™
Coolum, rm
Peregian Springs i
Political representation — Div. 10 (Cr Rogerson)
The reality of % of all votes 2012 - Div 10 - Cr Rogerson
politics points to ee
most infrastructure ——-
. Kureelpa =
and services Mepleton [a
emphasis in Div.10 = | nembourwest
will be in and Yencins
0.0% 5.0% 10.0% 15.0% 20.0% 25.0% 30.0%
Page 103 of 117Section 54
PLANNING & ORGANISATION COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA 14 OCTOBER 2014
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Political representation — Div. 9 (Cr Robinson)
% of all votes 2012 - Div. 9 - Cr Robinson
Again, with Div.9 ~§
the EDV area of :
the division is on -
the northern edge rece soins
and will struggle to vonins
get significant coun i aT
support. Lr
My impressions
* Demographics suggest EDV residents collectively have more in
common with Noosa Shire than with the Sunshine Coast. There is
also higher proportion of younger well educated EDV residents.
* The small scale (both in geography & demography) and extended
linkages of EDV suggests it is more likely to receive a sympathetic
hearing from a smaller authority that has a power base with
closer proximity and many shared interests.
* Politically , EDV residents do not represent a significant voting
block for current SC Councillors. They would.............. if folded into
a smaller Noosa Shire.
Page 104 of 117Section 55
PLANNING & ORGANISATION COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA 14 OCTOBER 2014
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ATTACHMENT 4
A discussion paper examining the use of a ‘population gravity model’ to assess the strength of
community and commercial linkages between the Eumundi/Doonan/Verrierdale/Weyba Downs (EDV)
areas and other Sunshine Coast Centres seen as relevant to their possible amalgamation with Noosa
Shire.
Background: For some 50 years social scientists have used a modified version of Isaac Newton's Law of
Gravitation known as a ‘population gravity model’ to predict movement of people, information, and
commodities between cities and even continents. The concept considers the population size of two places
and their distance apart. Generally, larger places attract people, ideas, and commodities more than smaller
places. Further, as a consequence of sheer convenience, the closer together places are, the greater the
attraction/interaction. The ‘population gravity model‘ incorporates these two features.
The relative strength of a bond between two places is determined by - -
multiplying the population of city (1) by the population of city (2) and then
dividing the product by the distance between the two cities squared. So the distance?
equation a standard Population Gravity Model is...... population (1)
multiplied by population (2)] divided by distance squared (see Fig. 1).
Gravity models can be used to anticipate the
traffic between two places, journey to work, Chart 1 - Strength of population gravity model linkage to Brisbane (as LGA's)
number of telephone calls, transportation of
goods and other types of movement 450000000
between places. In each case I have used the 400000000
functional distance (driving distance) 350000000
between communities instead of the actual
point to point distance. As an example in Son000000
South East Queensland, if we compare the 250000000
bond between the Local Government areas 200000000
of Brisbane, Ipswich, Logan, Moreton Bay, -
Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast, we first * 9200000
multiply their 2011 (ABS Census figures) 100000000
populations and then we divide that number 50000000 a 7
by the distance squared. Chart 1 illustrates 0 |
how the equation allocated the various Logan Moreton Bay Ipswich Gold Coast Sunshine Coast
degrees of strength in the movement of
people, information and goods/services
between each community. Experience and
anecdotal evidence suggests the way the Chart 2 - Commuting to Brisbane to work
equation allocates relationships is (2011)
reasonably accurate. 20000
Journey to work (JTW) figures (see Chart 2) 15000
were examined to test the conclusions of the
population gravity model data. As the JTW 10000
figures do not include trips (i.e. linkages) for 5000
socialising, recreation and entertainment, WS
they will not be a precise match. However, 0 ewewer
the Gold & Sunshine Coast figures do clearly Ipswich Logan- Moreton GoldCoast Sunshine
illustrate how scale, distance and quality of Beaudesert = Bay Coast
transport infrastructure affects linkage
between locations.
Page 105 of 117Section 56
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Regional Planning influences: 2 “oi
Fig. 2 is an extract from the Draft Sunshine Coast 5 Cee anee
Planning Scheme map (SCC1). The EDV area is = iad, ;
approximately enclosed in the yellow circle. The : % SO 7
arrows point out the major road connections. *s
Following the de-amalgamation of Noosa from the | ‘Z
Sunshine Coast Region, the map and regional plan are | |
under review. However, as the map shows, the bulk f Le conus
land seen as suitable for intensive urban development fy. \ hore :
is directly adjacent to the beaches, on the rail line, or we cen or
in the area bounded by the Maroochy River to the 4} \ .
north, Bruce Highway to the west and the area ‘ F
between Caloundra Downs and Pelican Waters. aia) tercoas
roche.
The following statement is Item 1 in the Draft Plan. . ‘ bonnes
“Consolidate development within the Urban Footprint, c gow Ont
predominantly in the existing or planned centres of a we, :
eabast sagan
Maroochydore, Caloundra, Kawana, Sippy Downs, ma ae Sm muon Ss
Nambour and Beerwah”. M7 ( | - 4%
” ie ‘i ad
A r en ravens
Mi we Fo .
se" ’ Ms = CLFe HahoT
Pa wooo a,
Peea-raTr: un F. ee
he i |"
Page 106 of 117Section 57
PLANNING & ORGANISATION COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA 14 OCTOBER 2014
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PLANNING & ORGANISATION COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA 14 OCTOBER 2014
Results of gravity model calculations (see equation in Fig. 1 above)
Chart 3 - Strength of population gravity model linkage to Eumundi
Eumundi: As illustrated in Chart 2, the 00
strongest linkages for Eumundi are ‘Greater .
Noosa’ (i.e. Noosa, Noosaville & Tewantin)
closely followed by Nambour, then Greater scoot
Maroochydore. For Eumundi, the least strong soon
link is with Coolum/Peregian Springs. a
_
. Distance Location
Table 1 gives the assumes Table 1 - Eumundi assumed population Calculated strength of
distance and popu ation lgures (population 1,924) (km) assumed linkage to Eumundi
used to run the equation for Noosa/Noosaville/Tewantin 26 21,776 61978
Eumundi. Greater Nambour 21 14,012 61132
Greater Maroochydore 34 27,751 46188
Coolum/Peregian Springs 24 11,854 39596
Chart 4 - Strength of population gravity model linkage to Doonan
Doonan: Chart 4 shows the dominance of | *”™
the linkage between Doonan and Greater —
Noosa. Other locations have significantly
weaker links. OK
The realities of proximity and road access
constraints appear to confirm the gravity model 20000¢
calculations. soon
10000
- a a —_
. Noosa/Noosaville/Tewantin Coolum/Peregian Springs Greater Maroochydore Greater Nambou
Distance Location
Table 2 gives the assumed Table 2 - Doonan assumed population Calculated strength of
distance and population figures (population 3,142) (km) assumed linkage to Doonan
dto run th tion for Noosa/Noosaville/Tewantin 14 21,776 349083
used to ru € equation To Coolum/Peregian Springs 19 11,854 103172
Doonan. Greater Maroochydore 35 27,751 71178
Greater Nambour 28 14,012 60981
Verrierdale/Weyba Downs: Chart 4 also shows the strength of the linkage between Verrierdale/Weyba
Downs and Greater Noosa. Of the three other locations Nambour has the least linkage strength.
Page 107 of 117Section 58
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PLANNING & ORGANISATION COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA 14 OCTOBER 2014
As noted with the Doonan figures above, the Chart 5 - Strength of population gravity model linkage to Verrierdale/Weyba Downs
chart quite accurately echoes the realities of soon
scale and access. 70008
l i
. 7
- L |
Table 3 gives the assumed Distance Location Calculated strength of
distance and population figures Table 3 -Verrierdale/Weyba Downs assumed population linkage to Verrierdale,
. (population 1,011) (km) assumed Weyba Downs
used torun the equation for Noosa/Noosaville/Tewantin 18 21,776 67949
Verrierdale/Weyba Downs. Coolum/Peregian Springs 17 11,854 41468
Greater Maroochydore 31 27751. 29295
Greater Nambour 27 14,012 19432
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PLANNING & ORGANISATION COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA 14 OCTOBER 2014
The population gravity model was expanded by William J. Reilly in 1931 to create a ‘law of retail
gravitation’. This aimed to devise a method which might calculate the trading area of a particular
location/shopping centre. It aims to identify the trade ‘breaking point’ between two places. This is seen as
the point of ‘indifference’ between the two locations, where customers will be drawn to one or another of
two competing commercial centres, depending on factors such as proximity, scale and convenience. The
law presumes the geography is such it does not create significant barriers that would alter a consumer's
decision of where to travel to buy goods. It also assumes consumers in each city are have similar cultural
and economic circumstances.
For instance, as shown in the theoretical example of figure My
3, two locations are 75 km apart. Rather than the ‘break 45.9 km | 28.1 km
point’, or the point of ‘indifference’ being halfway in —a (6)
between (35 km) the two centres, since location A has a 7km \
larger population (more weight), it is assumed that it will 250,000 tog,000
draw more customers. Using gravity modelling principles, D 75
Reilly’s Law places the point of indifference 45.9 km away Map = —— Ma = 1+ 9*9°0/50.000
from location A. 1+ o/p 250,000
@ Map = 45.9
Distance between Trade break
Table 4 — Eumundi confirms the information Table 4 -Eumundi each location point
illustrated in Chart 3 above. creater Nambour : 21 6
Coolum/Peregian Springs 24 17
Noosa-Noosaville 26 20
Greater Maroochydore 34 26
Table 5 — Doonan also confirms the data Distance between Trade break
illustrated in Chart 4 above Table 5 - Doonan each location point
Noosa-Noosaville 14 10
Coolum/Peregian Springs 19 13
Greater Nambour 28 19
Greater Maroochydore 35 25
Table 6 - Verrierdale - Distance between Trade break
Table 6 — Verrierdale/Weyba Downs confirms Weyba powns. each location point
; . Greater Nambour 27 9
he data illustrated in Chart 5 ab
the data Nlustrate art > above Coolum/Peregian Springs 17 12
Noosa-Noosaville 18 15
Greater Maroochydore 31 25
As a caution, it should be noted the concept of the gravity model has opponents who claim it is only based
on observation and cannot be confirmed scientifically. It is also claimed the model is an unfair method of
predicting movement because it is biased toward historic ties and toward the largest population centres.
However, experience suggests the conclusions reported above are supported by other evidence such as
shopping patterns and involvement in sport/social clubs and appear to be realistic and relevant, if not
precisely accurate.
Ted FitzGerald, June 2014
Page 109 of 117Section 60
PLANNING & ORGANISATION COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA 14 OCTOBER 2014
10 EXECUTIVE OFFICE UPDATE
DOCUMENT INFORM AT ION
Author Executive Manager, Debra Iezzi
Executive Office
Index ECM/ Subject/ Branch Management/ Executive
Attachments Nil.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Not applicable.
RECOMMENDATION
That Council note the report by the Executive Manager to the Planning and Organisation
Committee Meeting dated 14 October 2014 providing an update on operations of the Executive
Office.
REPORT
The purpose of this report is to inform Council of the progress of various initiatives and programs
of the Executive Office which includes the following functions:
Human Resources
Community Engagement
Customer Service
Governance
Executive Office Management and Support
Economic Development Officer
Sustainability Project Officer
Biosphere Project Officer
It is worth noting that since the appointment of two new managers in Human Resources and
Community Engagement, a considerable amount of progress has been made in progressing
initiatives and establishing new work processes.
Notable achievements within the Executive office include:
Adoption of the Community Engagement Policy, Framework and Toolkit;
Commencement of the Community Jury project;
Near completion of the review of position descriptions associated with the permanent
structure;
The recruitment of the new Communications Officer (media);
Adoption of the Media Relations Policy and Guideline;
The development of the governance framework including: the adoption of the Internal Audit
Committee Charter and appointment of Audit Committee members with the first Audit
Committee held on 21 August 2014;
Adoption of the Risk Management Policy;
Improved customer service reporting; and
HR Involvement in the Award Modernisation process.
The following table outlines the achievements of the Executive Office as well as priorities and
emerging issues.
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Section 61
PLANNING & ORGANISATION COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA 14 OCTOBER 2014
EXECUTIVE OFFICE
SECTION RECENT ACHIEVEMENTS CURRENT PRIORITIES LOOKING AHEAD
Human Resources WH&S interim Audit New Local Government Award Implementation of new HR information
Workforce Forum held Industrial Relations Strategy system
Engagement of new Employee development for Certified Agreement Implementation of the L&D Program
Assistance Scheme provider/contractor negotiations Development of mentoring strategy &
Finalisation of reviews of managers Performance Reviews & Recruitment program
contracts processes to be reviewed New employee orientation & inductions
Finalisation of PDs (incl. evaluations) Implications from the WH&S interim
for all council staff Audit
WH&S plan
Implementation of new HR system
Development of Branch Plan
Employee Code of Conduct
Negotiation of new CA and
implications/application of new LG
Award
Community Adoption of CE Policy, development of Commencement of Community Jury Development of project plans for major
Engagement (CE) CE Framework and Toolkit project projects
Community Jury Project approval and Issues identification for Web Site Development of Branch Plan
commencement development project and redefinition of Community Jury project implementation
Launch of Have Your Say website project scope and plan
CE awareness and training for the
organisation
Service review
Customer Service Operational issues associated with the Monitoring CS statistics with a view to Development/up skilling of CS officers
Implementation of new phone system improving call response and wait times Further refinement of CS statistics and
resolved CS Working Group performance objectives
Improved reporting capability on CS Development of Customer Service Continued focus on E-business
statistics Charter solutions
Monitoring staffing resources and costs Customer Service Charter
relative to required resourcing levels Development of Branch Plan
and customer service expectations.
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Section 62
PLANNING & ORGANISATION COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA 14 OCTOBER 2014
SECTION RECENT ACHIEVEMENTS CURRENT PRIORITIES LOOKING AHEAD
Governance Adoption of Risk Management Policy Co-ordination of Annual Report Enterprise Risk Management
Adoption of Audit Committee Charter, information Framework
appointment of Audit Committee Policy review Self-audit of governance practices
members, first Audit Committee Recruitment to the vacant Governance Amendments to delegations
meeting held 21 August 2014 Advisor role Implement Enterprise Risk
Review of Noosa Council Delegations Management Framework/Guideline
Adoption of Administrative Action Local Laws making process
Complaint Policy Co-ordination of Business Continuity
Plans review
Finalisation of Policy Review
Lobbyists Register and administrative
process
Development of Branch Plan
Preparation of Annual Report
Executive Office Mgt Secretarial support to the Audit Ongoing development of systems and Development of Branch Plans
and Support Committee processes Performance reviews for EO Staff
Review of support and executive Co-ordination of new management Resolution of issues associated with the
assistant roles arrangements NBS implementation of the reporting system
Internal Audit Policy and Terms of Next Audit Committee Meeting
reference Co-ordination of new management
Engagement of internal audit function arrangements NBS
Economic Development Noosa Junction Special Area Levy 12 Engagement – State & Fed Govt Digital Infrastructure
Officer month implementation plan signed off, Agencies for a range of projects and Regional Food Trail
funding agreement developed and funding opportunities Regional Agri-business Plan
signed off, levy instalment paid. Rural Network Development Development incl. Public Wi-Fi Report
Regional Agri-business Plan Community Grants –Econ.Dev.
Development Category Assessment
Council’s involvement in the Regional Contribute to Economic development
Digital Action Plan Initiatives Strategy development
Business Enquiry Liaison
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Section 63
PLANNING & ORGANISATION COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA 14 OCTOBER 2014
SECTION RECENT ACHIEVEMENTS CURRENT PRIORITIES LOOKING AHEAD
Sustainability Project Report to Council regarding Council’s Development of Sustainability Plan Continued development of
Officer involvement in the Living Smart Program Investigating how Council may take Sustainability Plan
and in relation to sustainability advantage of the Energex Positive Continued work on the Living Smart
Operational sustainability projects–fridge Payment Business initiative and the programme
analysis and paper towel analysis promotion of this program to the local
Electric vehicle report (July) business community.
Sustainability/energy tips-web resource
Continued work on the Living Smart
programme
Biosphere Project Provision of project support to sector Ensuring all relevant documentation Continuing to support the NBL structure
Officer boards incl. meetings and records are appropriately saved incl. sector board through to 24
November 2014 when the NBL
structure will be wound up ahead of the
new management arrangement
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Section 64
PLANNING & ORGANISATION COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA 14 OCTOBER 2014
Previous Council Consideration
Nil.
Finance & Risk
Nil.
Consultation
External Consultation - Community & Stakeholder
Nil
Internal Consultation
Branch Managers of the Executive Office were consulted on the content of this report.
Departments/Sections Consulted:
Community Services Planning & Infrastructure
Disaster Management & Public Order Building & Plumbing Services
Waste & Environmental Health DA Planning
Community Facilities Strategic Land Use Planning
Cultural Facilities Asset Design & Investigations
Asset Planning
Civil Operations
Environment
x Executive Office Corporate Services
Community Engagement Finance
Customer Service ICT
Executive Support Procurement & Fleet
Governance Property & Facilities
Human Resources Revenue Services
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Section 65
PLANNING & ORGANISATION COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA 14 OCTOBER 2014
11 COUNCIL MEETING SCHEDULE 2015
DOCUMENT INFORM AT ION
Author Personal Assistant to the CEO, Kylie Harris
Executive Office
Index ECM/ Subject/ Council Meetings General
Attachments 1. Council Meeting Schedule 2015
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Not applicable.
RECOMMENDATION
That Council note the report by the Personal Assistant to the CEO to the Planning & Organisation
Committee Meeting dated 14 October 2014 and endorse the Council meeting dates for 2015 as
shown at Attachment 1 to the report.
REPORT
At the Post Election Meeting on 2 January 2014, Council adopted its Council meeting structure
and meeting cycle for 2014. The meeting structure incorporates three Standing Committees and
an Ordinary Meeting and meetings are held on a 4 weekly cycle.
In consultation with the Mayor and CEO, a draft Council Meeting Schedule for 2015 has been
prepared for Council’s consideration (refer to Attachment 1). It is proposed to continue meeting
on a 4 weekly cycle.
Previous Council Consideration
The Council meeting structure and cycle for 2014 was adopted at the Post Election meeting on 2
January 2014.
Finance & Risk
Nil.
Consultation
External Consultation - Community & Stakeholder
Nil.
Internal Consultation
The draft schedule was discussed with the Mayor and CEO.
Page 115 of 117
Section 66
PLANNING & ORGANISATION COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA 14 OCTOBER 2014
Departments/Sections Consulted:
Community Services Planning & Infrastructure
Disaster Management & Public Order Building & Plumbing Services
Waste & Environmental Health DA Planning
Community Facilities Strategic Land Use Planning
Cultural Facilities Asset Design & Investigations
Asset Planning
Civil Operations
Environment
X Executive Office Corporate Services
Community Engagement Finance
Customer Service ICT
Executive Support Procurement & Fleet
Governance Property & Facilities
Human Resources Revenue Services
Page 116 of 117
Section 67
PLANNING & ORGANISATION COMMITTEE MEETING AGENDA 14 OCTOBER 2014 ATTACHMENT 1
Page 117 of 117
ATTACHMENT 1
Council Meeting Schedule 2015 Spm Ordinary Meeting
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Infrastructure & Services Committee: Cr Sandy Bolton (Chair), Cr Bob Abbot, Cr Frank Pardon, Mayor Noel Playford
Planning & Organisation Committee: Cr Frank Wilkie (Chair), Cr Joe Jurisevic, Mayor Noel Playford, Cr Tony Wellington
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