Services & Organisation Committee - 12 August 2025
Date: Tuesday, 12 August 2025 at 1:30PM
Location: Noosa Shire Council Chambers , 9 Pelican Street , Tewantin , QLD 4565 , Australia
Organiser: Noosa Shire Council
Duration: 00:55:25
Synopsis: Go Noosa escalated; transport fixes, APCS travel approved; report, COMSEQ ROI published, Capital works on-track; reporting improved, Holiday Parks resilient; greywater enforced, Remuneration rises.
Meeting Attendees
Committee Members
Karen Finzel Jessica Phillips Nicola Wilson Frank Wilkie Non-Committee Members
Amelia Lorentson Tom Wegener Executive Officers
Chief Executive Officer Larry Sengstock Director Corporate Services Margaret Gatt Director Infrastructure Services Shaun Walsh Director Strategy & Environment Kim Rawlings AI-Generated Meeting Insight
Key Decisions & Discussions Karen Finzel: Go Noosa report elevated to General Committee given significance; unanimous referral (Item 7.1) (07:54). Larry Sengstock: Sought and obtained approval for Mayor’s Council of Mayors (SEQ)–funded international travel to 2025 APCS in Dubai; minor incidental costs possible (Item 7.2) (08:45–10:20). Frank Wilkie: Framed APCS benefits: regional collaboration pre-2032 Olympics; climate resilience, renewables, waste, affordable housing insights; committed to report back (12:00–14:04) (Item 7.2). Jessica Phillips: Requested public-facing cost–benefit of COMSEQ membership; CEO cited recent $400k city deal public art funding and broader returns (14:21–15:44) (Item 7.2). Capital Works: 2024/25 program spend $28.8m (62.5%) of $46m budget; 140 projects; grants $11.7m with $8.4m Council contribution; recruitment improving delivery (Item 8.1) (16:26–20:23, 23:31). Officers: TMR collaboration progressing (e.g., Beckmans Rd options); Councillor briefing requested; clearer multi-year project reporting foreshadowed (20:17–21:12, 21:15–23:31) (Item 8.1). Noosa Holiday Parks: FY24/25 revenue $4.62m; surplus $1.14m; ~60,000 guests; forward bookings >$3m six weeks into FY25/26; resilience despite softening occupancy (Item 8.2) (28:08–30:48). Robyn Mercer: Strategic plan commencing: regenerative tourism, financial sustainability, reinvestment, environmental innovation; pricing to balance affordability and competitive neutrality (33:38–35:15) (Item 8.2). Greywater management: Rules reinforced (EPA basis); signage and booking notices added; central dump points in place; spot checks planned with Environmental Health (42:38–46:33) (Item 8.2). Remuneration: From 1 Jul 2025, increases set by QLD Remuneration Commission for Category B3: Mayor +$3,935; Deputy +$2,291; Councillors +$1,947; 2.5% indicated; s250 LGR expenses policy applies (Item 8.3) (49:08–52:11, 52:24–53:40). Margaret Gatt: Corrected record: B3 categorisation occurred in 2023; methodology complex and considers CPI among other factors (51:18–52:59) (Item 8.3). Contentious / Transparency Matters Karen Finzel: Escalation of Go Noosa reflects whole-of-council significance; defers probing to ensure full debate (01:32–07:54) (Item 7.1). Jessica Phillips: Transparency ask: publish COMSEQ ROI to justify ~$48k fee; aligns with community expectations (10:20–11:47, 14:21–15:21) (Item 7.2). Holiday Parks Comms: Marketing outsourced by business unit; limited in-house comms; Chair queried alignment with Council channels and DMP (39:26–41:32) (Item 8.2). Carryovers framing: Shift to explain multi-year alignment and savings to avoid “blowout” perceptions; improves public understanding (21:15–23:31) (Item 8.1). Greywater complaints: Community concern acknowledged; enforcement practicality limits deposits approach; increased education and monitoring flagged (42:38–46:33) (Item 8.2). Legal / Risk Larry Sengstock: Brought overseas mayoral travel for resolution given elected member travel; mitigates probity risk via council decision and third-party funding (08:45–10:20) (Item 7.2). Go Noosa: Past overspend vs transport levy revenue corrected by scaling back initiatives (ending free weekend buses post QLD 50c fares), renegotiating Lions Park with formal TMP, and new KPIs (01:49–06:53) (Item 7.1). Traffic/Safety: Lions Park overflow parking produced congestion at Noosa Parade roundabout; drop-off zone reinstatement proposed with design improvements, wayfinding, and emergency access benefits (01:49–06:53) (Item 7.1). Environmental Compliance: Greywater disposal grounded in Environmental Protection Act; introduced clearer conditions and signage to reduce non-compliance risk (43:09–46:33) (Item 8.2). Remuneration: Determinations by independent Commission; expenses under s250 Local Government Regulation; error correction on category timing recorded on the record (49:08–53:40) (Item 8.3). Procurement/Contracts: Holiday Park management contracts 5+2 with option periods pre-approved; tenders under probity; mitigates challenge risk (47:06–48:06) (Item 8.2). Transport and Congestion Management (Go Noosa) Staff (Dr Villon referenced): Successful 065 shuttle; discontinued free weekend buses after state 50c fares; park-and-ride underused; comms to improve (01:49–06:53) (Item 7.1). Frank Wilkie: Queried 9.2% weekend patronage jump; clarified this was statewide, not Noosa-specific (07:10–07:25) (Item 7.1). Plan Ahead: Explore shuttle extensions, bus priority, passive safety, smart traffic tools, deployable parklets; Christmas-only Lions Park overflow pending DMP (01:49–06:53) (Item 7.1). Tourism and Holiday Parks Robyn Mercer: Occupancy softened (cost-of-living, March–April weather) but portfolio resilient; pricing tiers from ~$45–50 (Boreen unpowered) to $68–75+ (Noosa River) maintain accessibility (31:25–35:15) (Item 8.2). Cost Drivers: Utilities and wastewater ~$.75m of ~$3.2m OPEX; weather drives road base costs; strategic investments to lower whole-of-life costs (35:15–36:12) (Item 8.2). Feedback: Reviews consistently >4 stars; focus on nature-based experience over built attractions; continuous improvement via operator feedback loops (37:38–39:26) (Item 8.2). Capital Works Delivery Officers/Councillors: Highlighted completed/ongoing works: Sunrise Beach David Low Way retaining wall, Gympie Tce pathways, Goodchap St stormwater, Kin Kin shelters, visitor centre toilets (24:39–25:28) (Item 8.1). Governance: Capital Works Executive oversight praised; delegation to CEO for emergencies noted as enabling responsive delivery (26:02–27:00) (Item 8.1). Environmental Concerns Go Noosa: Trials improved pedestrian safety on Hastings/Noosa Drives; emergency vehicle access benefits from Main Beach drop-off design (01:49–06:53) (Item 7.1). Holiday Parks: Regenerative tourism and circular materials in renewals; guest tree-planting concept under consideration in strategy (41:14–42:32) (Item 8.2). Community Transparency and Engagement Jessica Phillips: Public ROI on COMSEQ; strengthens legitimacy of membership and travel approvals (14:21–15:21) (Item 7.2). Reporting: Commitment to clearer multi-year capital reporting and social promotion of completed works to inform residents (21:15–24:45) (Item 8.1).
Official Meeting Minutes
MINUTES Services & Organisation Committee Meeting Tuesday, 12 August 2025 1:30 PM Council Chambers, 9 Pelican Street, Tewantin Committee: Crs Karen Finzel (Chair), Cr Jessica Phillips, Cr Frank Wilkie, Cr Nicola Wilson “Noosa Shire – different by nature” SERVICES & ORGANISATION COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES 12 AUGUST 2025 1 DECLARATION OF OPENING The meeting was declared open at 1.30pm. 2 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY Noosa Council respectfully acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the lands and waters of the Noosa area, the Kabi Kabi people, and pays respect to their Elders, past, present and emerging. 3 ATTENDANCE & APOLOGIES COMMITTEE MEMBERS Cr Karen Finzel (Chair) Cr Jessica Phillips Cr Nicola Wilson Cr Frank Wilkie NON COMMITTEE MEMBERS Cr Amelia Lorentson Cr Tom Wegener (via Microsoft Teams) EXECUTIVE Chief Executive Officer Larry Sengstock Acting Director Corporate Services Margaret Gatt Director Infrastructure Services Shaun Walsh Director Strategy & Environment Kim Rawlings APOLOGIES Nil. 4 CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES 4.1 CONFIRMATION OF SERVICES & ORGANISATION COMMITTEE MINUTES DATED 8 JULY 2025 Committee Resolution Moved: Cr Jessica Phillips Seconded: Cr Nicola Wilson The Minutes of the Services & Organisation Committee Meeting held on 8 July 2025 be received and confirmed. Carried. For: Cr Karen Finzel, Cr Jessica Phillips, Cr Nicola Wilson, Cr Frank Wilkie Against: None 5. PRESENTATIONS Nil. 6. DEPUTATIONS Nil. SERVICES & ORGANISATION COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES 12 AUGUST 2025 7 REPORTS FOR CONSIDERATION OF THE COMMITTEE 7.1 GO NOOSA REPORT Committee Recommendation Moved: Cr Nicola Wilson Seconded: Cr Jessica Phillips That Services & Organisation Committee Agenda Item 7.1 be referred to the General Committee due to the significance of the issue. Carried. For: Cr Karen Finzel, Cr Jessica Phillips, Cr Nicola Wilson, Cr Frank Wilkie Against: None 7.2 MAYOR'S ATTENDANCE - 2025 ASIA PACIFIC CITIES SUMMIT AND MAYORS’ FORUM VIA COUNCIL OF MAYORS SEQ (INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL) Committee Recommendation Moved: Cr Karen Finzel Seconded: Cr Nicola Wilson That Council A. Note the report by the Chief Executive Officer to the Services & Organisation Committee dated 12 August 2025 regarding the Mayor’s attendance and representation at 2025 Asia Pacific Cities Summit (2025APCS) and Mayors’ Forum, Expo City Dubai) and site visits organised by the Council of Mayors; B. Approve the Mayor’s international travel for this trip (23 to 31 October 2025); and C. Note that the costs for the trip will be generally covered by Council of Mayors (SEQ). Carried. For: Cr Karen Finzel, Cr Jessica Phillips, Cr Nicola Wilson, Cr Frank Wilkie Against: None 8 REPORTS FOR NOTING BY THE COMMITTEE 8.1 CAPITAL PROGRAM 2024/2025 DELIVERY STATUS Committee Recommendation Moved: Cr Karen Finzel Seconded: Cr Jessica Phillips That Council note the report by the Director Infrastructure Services to the Services & Organisation Committee Meeting dated 12 August 2025 providing an update on the delivery of the 2024/25 Capital Works Program as at 30 June 2025. Carried. For: Cr Karen Finzel, Cr Jessica Phillips, Cr Nicola Wilson, Cr Frank Wilkie Against: None SERVICES & ORGANISATION COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES 12 AUGUST 2025 8.2 NOOSA HOLIDAY PARKS UPDATE Committee Recommendation Moved: Cr Karen Finzel Seconded: Cr Jessica Phillips That Council note the report by the Commercial Business Advisor to the Services & Organisation Committee Meeting dated 12 August 2025 providing an update on operations of the Noosa Holiday Park Business Activity to 30 June 2025. Carried. For: Cr Karen Finzel, Cr Jessica Phillips, Cr Nicola Wilson, Cr Frank Wilkie Against: None 8.3 COUNCILLOR REMUNERATION UPDATE Committee Recommendation Moved: Cr Frank Wilkie Seconded: Cr Karen Finzel That Council note the report by the People and Culture Manager to the Services and Organisation Committee dated 12 August 2025 informing Council of the determinations of the Queensland Local Government Remuneration Commission, as detailed in the Local Government Remuneration Commission Annual Report 2024. Carried. For: Cr Karen Finzel, Cr Jessica Phillips, Cr Nicola Wilson, Cr Frank Wilkie Against: None 9 CONFIDENTIAL SESSION Nil. 10 MEETING CLOSURE The meeting closed at 2.25pm.
Meeting Transcript
Karen Finzel 00:00.000
I would like to note that all councillors are in the room, present and accounted for, and I do believe we will have Councillor Wegener coming on line. Maybe he's not there yet. Welcome to the CEO. Noosa Council proudly acknowledges and respects the Australian First Nations people and their deep and abiding connection to the country. We recognise the Kabi Kabi people as traditional owners of the lands and the waters of Noosa area and offer our gratitude for their careful custodianship of this unique environment over There are no attendances and apologies. Do we have a confirmation of the minutes? Happy to move. I second. And second by Councillor Wilson. All in favour? Yes. There are no presentations, no deputations. We're heading into agenda item seven, reports for consideration of the committee, and we will start with the Go Noosa report. So we'll welcome staff to the table. Amelia Lorentson 01:25.860
All right, our Sustainable Transport Coordinator, Dr Stephanie Bellone, will be presenting the summary of the report. Karen Finzel 01:36.220
I will note that this has been requested due... requested, due to the significance of the matter, to be moved to our general meeting, so I just want to note that before we start, but happy to hear your report and your overview. Thank you. Stephanie Bellone 01:49.568
No problem, thank you very much. So in 2024 and 2025... in 2024 and 2025 the Go Noosa project has continued to deliver a package of different initiatives to help us manage traffic flow, improve safety and encourage more sustainable travel. Key actions included the school behaviour change programs, community transport services, free holiday and weekend buses, the main beach drop-off zone, target traffic control, park and ride facilities. traffic control, park and ride facilities, and trial streetscape changes in Hastings and Noosa Drive. The main beach drop-off zone has met the operational objectives, which was improved traffic flow at Hastings Street roundabout, enhancing pedestrian accessibility and movement, and providing better access for emergency vehicles. we have seen a strong results from the Transport first, making it travel affordable, and there is no need for us to continue subsidizing this specific public transport. The cancellation was also part of an effort to bring the Go Noosa program go back to the within the within the sustainable transport budget, transport levy budget. In recent years, the cost of delivering the program exceeded the levy revenue. So for this program of the 2025-2026, we have withdrawn some of those initiatives and we have revisited the whole Go Noosa project, including the free weekend buses, so that the initiatives that are currently funded by the levy are... So for this program of transport first, making Matching the revenue that we get from the transport levy. Challenges still remain with this Go Noosa project. park and ride were highly underused, although we tried to promote as much as possible. the Lions Park has brought revenue, but has added some congestion, especially at the roundabout next to it, the Noosa Parade roundabout. Temporary paid parking... We also have realised that we need to improve our communication plans to resident... so they can clearly understand the changes and the modifications we are planning throughout these periods during Noosa and Easter, so they can make better informed travel decisions. What we are proposing... looking ahead, is to continue the program within the sustainable transport levy, maintain and improve the route for the 065 shuttle bus and investigate new shuttle services services and priority bus lanes we are going to review and refresh the school program we are planning on delivering an active transport access improvement for five schools and to create a traffic and parking education hub we want to continue coming community transport services with a focus on more flexible cost-effective delivery we are going to reinstate or we are proposing to reinstate the main beach drop-off zone with some design improvements from the lessons we learned from the previous year with a stronger way finding and visitor information focus we want to target traffic control to hide impacted areas using more passive safety infrastructure and exploring some smart traffic management control tools we also want to improve awareness and safety incentives for the parking right because we haven't seen an increase An increase in the use of these and we also want to identify new sites in Peregian Tewantin and Noosaville where we can identify locations where we can do the park and ride so we can to some extent manage to have all these trippers that coming to Noosa a little bit away from the key areas. We are going to investigate the design of deployable parklets to enhance pedestrian experience during the peak hours and the peak periods and we are proposing to continue with the Lions Park overflow parking for Christmas only and the further east of the only and the further Easter decision until the destination management plan has finalised consultation. We also propose to renegotiate the Lions Club agreement and require a formal traffic management plan. We are also looking at introducing new KPIs to measure moral shift, congestion safety and community satisfaction, access and cost effectiveness of the Go Noosa program. These key considerations are: to be endorsed as the continuation of this program, in inclusion of the approval and reinstate the main beach drop-off zone, confirm the use of the Lorentson car park only for Christmas, and propose the review of the park and ride, and the strategy and the Thank you. Karen Finzel 06:42.676
There's a lot in that isn't there? It's a quite extensive program. It's very extensive and thank you for the time put into the report, it had a lot of detail and a lot of reading so thank you. Look as the chair and given the significance of the matter and I feel that it's you know going to be going on to the next meeting for all councillors to have a say, do we want to want to ask any burning questions today or collectively say we're happy to just move that forward and deal with that at the next meeting? Frank Wilkie 07:10.988
Just a clarifying question, did I read correctly that after the free weekend bus service was discontinued because 50 cent fares were coming in, that there was a 9.2% jump in the use of the weekend service? Stephanie Bellone 07:25.608
That's across Queensland, there was an increase across Queensland, correct, not Jessica Phillips 07:35.200
Across Queensland. So you're suggesting move it right and ask questions? Well I just feel that like given it's been put forward to move it, like we'll just re-prosecute but if anyone has a burning question more than happy for you to bring it to the table. It's more efficient just to have all the questions on the same page. Good idea. Okay Okay, fantastic, fantastic. okay thank you Okay, thank you for the report and are we happy to move it to the next general meeting? We'll put it to the vote. Who's moving it? Karen Finzel 08:03.619
It was moved by Councillor Wilson, seconded by Councillor. We'll take it to the vote. All in favour, show of hands. Thank you, that's unanimous. you, that's unanimous. Thank you, Cathy. Thank you, Cathy. Thank you to staff. Thank you, Dr Frank Wilkie 08:18.063
Stephanie. Thank you. Karen Finzel 08:28.463
So, we're moving on to agenda item seven, number two. The Mayor's attendance to the 2025 Asia Pacific City Summit and Mayor's Forum. Via Council of Mayors SEQ International Travel. Mr CEO. Yes, so this is my report. So, I'm bringing this because, as we know, we are a member of the Council of Mayors, COMSEQ. As it's colloquially known, the Council of Mayors is funding a member of each member council, the mayors, to travel to Dubai for the 2025 Asia Pacific City Summit and Mayor's Forum. Along with site visits organised by the Council of Mayors. The dates proposed are the 23rd to the 31st of October in 2025 and this report seeks approval because we are having one of our of our elected members and the Mayor travel overseas, so I'm bringing it to Council for resolution or for approval as opposed to just for noting. I would also make the point that the... The trip is covered by the Council of Mayors in terms of finances. There may be some small costs that the Council has to do, but in general, it's covered by the Council of Mayors. And it is in Dubai for the Asia Pacific Cities Summit, which is heavily supported by the Brisbane City Council. So it's one that COMSEC attends with the mayors. And I think it's a really good opportunity for us to continue our association with COMSEC and to be part of that whole mix. So I put it to the group and to the committee for endorsement for this report. Thank you Mr. CEO. Any questions? Jessica Phillips 10:23.515
I have one question. Do we, does the council pay to be part of the council of mayors? Yes we do. Am I, is that a public figure that I've taken on notice? Larry Sengstock 10:36.455
It's a bit more than that. It's in the port. 48,000. Jessica Phillips 10:41.759
And that, that gives us, um, like we get the presentation from the CEO, don't we? And there's a lot of, um. Larry Sengstock 10:48.679
So we've already benefited enormously from it through various grants and, and opportunities and being part of the, of the whole mix. So yeah, so it's, um. City deals. So the city deals. That's right. Providing millions of dollars back to us. And there's only one. Out of the 77 LGAs. Is that right? That isn't part of? No, no, no. It's only for the southeast Queensland. So there's only 11 councils and Gold Coast is not part of that. Yeah. So they've opted to sit out. They were, and they now sit out of, out of concept. Amelia Lorentson 11:18.879
And Gympie? Larry Sengstock 11:20.339
Gympie is, is, is an associate member of sorts. It's a, it's a very loose arrangement, I believe. I don't know for sure, but we were, we were the last ones in as well. So, and now, now Gympie And now Gympie have looked to join because there's some of the opportunities, particularly within the waste management side of things, that would be very useful for Gympie to be part of. So that's why they're looking to be part of this. Karen Finzel 11:47.697
Thank you. Given we've got the Mayor at the table, is there anything you'd like to add? Like what are you hoping to bring back from the trip, given you've got the privilege to head over? Frank Wilkie 12:01.755
Straight from the relationships South East Queensland Councils and understanding their challenges and how we can work collaboratively rather than competitively in terms of tenders for waste projects, how we ourselves ahead of the 2032 Olympics. That understanding is critical to working collaboratively as a region and making sure that the best can be. Also, you've got cities from all around the you've got cities from all around the world and the best leaders from all around the world talking about topics of interest that face all of us, such as climate, building and resilience in the face of increasing frequency and How other cities are handling that. Transition away from coal-fired power to renewable energies. Development of sustainable tourism. Green infrastructure and biodiversity, building green infrastructure and biodiversity into urban planning. How we manage our waste sustainably. How cities around the world... handling affordable housing in innovative ways. And the list goes on. One thing that I have learned through the Council of Mayors is that we do have many challenges in common. And that some cities and communities are doing things really well and a lot are still struggling and even those that are still doing it well like handling traffic congestion and and transport, it's a constant. constant work and the work's never done and it's good to have access to this knowledge base and opportunity to learn and strengthen relationships with other communities around the world but also specifically South East Queensland communities. And how we can support each other with our challenges facing South East Queensland and strengthen those working relationships. Karen Finzel 14:04.902
Thank you, that sounds like a great opportunity and can we also look forward to you giving us a report back to council? Yes Madam Chair, Amelia Lorentson 14:11.642
I'll do that. Fantastic, thank you. And I'd like to acknowledge Councillor Lorentson is in the gallery, thank you for joining us today. Any further questions? Jessica Phillips 14:20.822
I am happy to this to be taken on notice, but what I'd love to see at some stage is, because I've sat in, I understand the benefits to us, so that wasn't my question, but maybe for the public, to see a cost benefit that we That we see for those city deals is there any way that we could maybe see that at some stage through? Larry Sengstock 14:40.195
As a consolidated report? Yeah, because it does come through in various parts so we can bring it together. Absolutely. I think it'd be good for the community to see that a small amount, if it's 40,000, gives us this. it'd be good for the community to see. Frank Wilkie 14:54.700
That's okay. Jessica Phillips 14:57.760
I'd love to see what it gives us in return because they're Because they're not privy to the great meetings that we sit in that we see what's happening, but maybe the general public would just love to see this is what it costs us and this is what we've been given. And you wouldn't be eligible for it if we weren't in the... Larry Sengstock 15:19.916
That's right. I'm happy to do that. I think that's just for the sake of people watching, whatever it is. We've just received $400,000 for public art. As part of this, as part of the city deal. So, I mean, in terms of return on investment, we're willing to... Frank Wilkie 15:39.889
Were there any conditions attached to what we spent the $4 million that we received as part of the city deals? Larry Sengstock 15:46.509
There was, but... We've been able to meet all of those as well. Karen Finzel 15:51.623
Yeah, that's great. Well, I'm happy to move the motion. Second? Thank you. That's moved by Councillor Finzel, second by Councillor Wilson. We'll take it to the vote. That's unanimous. All in favour? Thank you. Mr. CEO. Thank you, Mr. CEO. Now we're up to agenda item 8, reports for noting by the committee. 8.1 the capital program 24/25 delivery status. Thank you and we'll welcome you, we'll welcome the staff to the table. This report provides a status update of the capital works program as at the 30th of June 2025 and excludes disaster recovery projects. The approved capital budget provision for the 24/25 financial year following budget review two was $46 million, inclusive of carry forwards of $22.4 million. Actual expenditure achieved for the 24/25 financial year was $28.8 million, which is 62.5% of the budget..5% of the budget with an expected carry over to address the multi-year projects and commitments. The 24/25 financial year actual spend reflects solid project delivery despite the challenges including resourcing and adverse weather and is consistent with previous years. In the 24/25 financial year the capital works program consisted of 140 projects at various stages projects at various stages of planning, design and delivery. The grant funding revenue for the '24 / '25 financial year was $11.7 million, with Council's contribution to these projects being $8.4 million. The planning and design teams managed 25 capital projects and provided planning and design services to over 60 projects during quarter four of the '24 / '25 financial year. Recruitment is underway to fill key positions in the...and design teams with new initiatives for additional resourcing approved through the '25 / '26 budget approval process. The planning, design and delivery teams are working closely to build on the project management framework and processes. Capital works planning for the '25 / '26 financial year is complete with programming now So the recommendation is that Council note the report by the Director of Infrastructure Services to the Services and Organisation Committee meeting today, 12 August 2025, providing an update on the delivery of the '24 / '25 capital thank you, thank you for that and thank you for the report. It was some good reading. It was, I like to see it was like sort of evenly spread across the show where we're trying to work and I can see everyone's working really hard for that equity and trying to stick to budgets and deliver and meet the expectations of our community. So Thank you. Do we have any questions from the councillors at the table or online? Frank Wilkie 19:17.097
You mentioned some of the challenges with resourcing. How are we going in terms of addressing the resourcing issues? SPEAKER_02 19:25.537
Very well actually, we've seen some some good recruitment at some of our locations. We've got some really good experienced persons coming on board, some new project managers, project officers. I think Catherine here is a testimony to that as well. So we're really excited about about the future of infrastructure planning, design and delivery as a whole. As you're seeing from the transport and traffic team, the planning team, design team and our delivery team as well. We've got some really really good people on board and we're really excited about pushing our capital delivery forwards in all aspects so. Yeah, really looking forward to the projects that are coming up. Working with TMR and other stakeholders externally as well to firm up ideas like Beckmans Road, Active Street, those kind of innovative different ways of looking innovative different ways of looking at transport and things as well. Can you tell us about the progress of Beckmans Road? Yes. So currently it's quite early stages at the moment. We've got three concept designs, if you like, TMR are putting forward. So the team's working closely on those at the moment to work out what best suits Noosa Council's future with our active And looking at the area itself, etc, and what suits best for us. So it's early days at the moment, but it's, yeah, quite exciting to see this quite large piece of infrastructure in the- Chris, through the, I'm watching this, yes. Amelia Lorentson 20:57.831
Just through the chair, I just want to advise a councillor briefing about the status of the veterans, including the three options that the council officers have made a and ideally a joint presentation with officers from TMA and talking about the next steps. Frank Wilkie 21:25.917
The reporting is getting more and more detailed and extensive. I understand you're looking at further improving the reporting by making it clear which projects are intended to be multi-year projects and not necessarily starting on July 1 and finishing on June 30 to help improve understanding of timeframes for delivery. Have I covered it all? I think I answered the question but it's it's definitely part of it is looking at that multi-year projects like you say I'll error the revised estimates for the course of the project so if it's over two three years we're looking at our spend over those over the course of the project so there's a greater understanding of exactly what what you're approving when we look at each of our financial use for example you look at 12 months but then this project will go on I think you've pretty much covered it for SPEAKER_02 22:16.596
12 Months but then this project will go on from design to delivery and it's understanding that to help better support us to resource for that as well and then with the carryover side of things that's quite a bit of a subject so really pulling out that data to understand what it's it's not actually really a carryover necessarily we're just we're better aligning the funds for that particular project and we might see some savings along the along the way and things like this, so trying to make it more of a positive news story as much as possible. Frank Wilkie 22:46.197
So, for example, if it's a three-year project, normally we report on 12 months, so if you spend a third of the funds dedicated to that by the end of the first year, it looks like it's only 33% complete. Yes. Whereas under this new reporting it would actually be 100% on track. 100% on track as far as that financial year is concerned. And I think we've had a conversation around our renewal side of things with capital as well, and just putting that data out so we can see we're achieving the goals along the way. Really help us understand where we're at and how Karen Finzel 23:31.280
Thank you I think it's good it gives us all confidence moving forward that as we do you know adhere to continuous improvement and always looking at better ways to give clearer communication reporting I think it engenders trust between all key stakeholders so yeah thank you for that and you're welcome thank you so do we have any further questions with regards to the report I think it's pretty straightforward it was comprehensive we had a meeting yesterday Did I, um, or was that from the that from the budgeting? BR1 that's right thank you that was really comprehensive as well so I think you know everyone coming together and having these transparent open conversations around how we're moving forward and being reflected in the report is satisfying for everyone. So thank you. I'm happy to move the motion. I'm happy to second by Councillor Phillips. Moved by Councillor Finzel. We'll take it to the vote. Can we speak to the motion? Yes of course. Yes you can speak to the motion. I just want to thank you for the report. Shaun Walsh 24:39.089
I would like to look at the photos and celebrate some good news. So we've got some some great pictures here and as Councillor Finzel said it's all around the Shire so good to see things happening everywhere but we've got some some good success stories here with the Sunrise Beach, David Low Way retaining wall constructs looking great. Noosaville Seagull Park pathways, the Shire-wide pathway renewal, part of that is a Gympie Terrace. We've got a great result in Goodchap Street, Jessica Phillips 25:09.770
Tewantin with the stormwater works there that's been planned for an outstanding issue. Kin Kin shelters, Ed Webb Park which is looking amazing now, and spectacularly the toilets at Noosa Heads Father Visitor Centre. So some great work there to celebrate. Thank you for all of that and we understand the challenges with a lot of the weather and everything. SPEAKER_02 25:34.163
I would just like to say about our support teams as well, because we operate with procurement, for example, and building the facilities and civil operations. There's a lot of stakeholders within council that get involved with our delivery of aspects, so yeah. It's good to see the other players in the finance. Karen Finzel 26:01.452
Yeah, everyone plays a significant role across the board. Thank you. Yes, Councillor Amelia Lorentson 26:10.980
Laurinston from the gallery. I'd just like to take the opportunity, Councillor Wilson, myself and the Mayor, we sit on the Cabinet Works Executive and it's been really insightful. And great knowing that, you know, possibly the most important role in Council is being managed by seriously capable and good people and I really would love to acknowledge you at this live meeting. It's given me an insight on how you deal with blowouts and how, you know, this happens and the importance of having delegations of power where the CEO has the power to legally approve and authorise in a committee setting to make sure that, you know, that if there is an emergency or an emergent issue that we can address it without having to go through bureaucratic obstacles. Thank you, Councillor Karen Finzel 27:15.566
Laurenston. Amelia Lorentson 27:22.193
Again, I encourage all the councillors to get involved as we have done since the beginning. Thank you. Karen Finzel 27:29.893
We'll take that to the vote. That's unanimous. Thank you. Now we move to Agenda 8.2, Noosa Holiday Parks update. And we welcome Robyn Mercer to the table. Thank you, Robin. As always, a very comprehensive and detailed report. If you'd like to give us an overview... Thank you very much and excuse me if I cough. I've got the cold that's going around... Good afternoon all. I'm pleased to report that the Noosa Holiday Parks program has performed strongly over financial year 24-25, both financially and operationally. generated $4.62 million in revenue with an operational surplus of $1.14 million and we welcomed almost 60,000 guests through the portfolio. In total, the program... Forward bookings for the coming year, so for the current financial year, sorry, already exceed $3 million and we're only at six weeks into the year which is a great show of the ongoing demand and market confidence. While camping and caravanning as a whole saw some softening in occupancy during the last financial year, which we put down to economic conditions and some tricky weather in March and April of this year, the portfolio remained resilient, delivering a reliable revenue to councils delivering a reliable revenue to councils, supporting local economic activity and providing affordable nature-based holiday experiences for visitors and for our residents. This year's report also notes the commencement of a long-term strategic plan for the program. Thank you, that's very kind, thanks. The strategic plan The strategic plan will guide future management, renewal, growth and investment. I consider this a timely point to put something more longer term in place following a couple of strong years of growing the program in terms of its operational maturity, its management maturity. It's timely now to define a clear vision and roadmap for the future. roadmap for the future. The plan will also embed regenerative tourism principles in line with Council's emerging destination management plan and focus on financial sustainability, reinvestment, environmental innovation and enhanced visitor experience. The plan will also... Robyn Mercer 30:19.689
Importantly, these Council-owned assets exist really predominantly to give both our community and visitors the opportunity to connect with and enjoy our natural amenity. Across the three parks, visitors rate their experience higher than four stars consistently across platforms such as Google reviews and TripAdvisor, with many visitors highlighting the quality of the facilities and the beauty of the natural settings. Thank you. Karen Finzel 30:47.907
Thank you, Robin. It's a good news story, isn't it? I just love the reports that we're doing with our parks. I think everyone benefits from those experiences, visitors and residents alike. And I think everyone... So I think it's strong reporting in the financials and keep up the good work. And I know that's a whole team, so I'd like to express my thanks to the team and those out of the parks that are actually on the ground providing the maintenance and all the services. Correct. So yeah, a big thank you to them. Shaun Walsh 31:21.587
Yeah. Do we have any questions from the... Yes, Councillor. So there's a slight reduction, weather related. When you benchmark, was that just a Shire thing that we know is weather or... Robyn Mercer 31:37.245
So what we saw, so we get access to data through our membership with the Queensland Caravan Association Industry Group and through that we get access to the Australian Industry Association. So the data that we get is Queensland broken down into regions like Sunshine Coast, Fraser Coast, Bundaberg, Capricorn, Far North Queensland and we get the occupancy per month so over two years over two years of data for the financial year that we just had and the one previously, we saw that there was a drop across all the regions as a whole year average. In March, it went right down and April 2 was a little in some regions as well so the night sold you saw in the report which is what we used to measure our occupancy was down as a whole year which was sent across the industry and that's put down to economic conditions people tightening their purse strings waiting to see what the RBA does and and the like and it was compounded a little by March and April yeah so given that I always think like this is more cost-effective think like this is more cost-effective holidaymakers. Jessica Phillips 32:52.623
What's the long term for council to ensure that costs always I guess remain that when we talk about regenerative tourism and DMP I want to know that how this industry which has always given people an opportunity to come away with their families an affordable holiday that those prices Consideration, how do we as council ensure that in five years it's almost not possible for a family to come away, you know, to Noosa because of costs. Robyn Mercer 33:38.912
Yeah, so what I'd like to scoop into that strategic plan is how we do our pricing. When we look at our pricing increases, which happen every six months for 12 months in advance, we look at our cost of doing business or cost of, you know, our operational cost base. So pricing is really quite a tricky thing. We benchmark against a range of other parks up and down the coast and we also as a council have to consider our competitive neutrality as well. We need to be pricing fairly. contrast to private operators so that we're not you know leveraging the benefits of having a big organisation behind us. So that's pricing I guess in an academic way. Pricing to meet the market. What we try and do is make sure that there is a spread of pricing. So for example at Boreen Point you can access a powered or unpowered site. access a powered or unpowered site there in the range of $45 to $50, which is at the lower end. Noosa River, you're looking at $68, $70, $75 upwards. So that's, I guess, kind of what we try and do is distribute the... opportunities in pricing across the region. I'm very keen to make sure that we protect that. That's, yeah, that there's no... I guess we've always tried to honour that those sites were designated for camping and caravanning recreation. So, we need to make sure that we allow for that to be accessible. Yeah. So, the pricing part of the strategic plan would recognise that we need to do that. Jessica Phillips 35:15.276
What's the biggest contributor to operational costs? Robyn Mercer 35:21.456
So, across the cost base, which is about 3.2 million. For example, electricity, wastewater management, water and gas contributes about three quarters of a million dollars. We have road maintenance. So, in a tricky wet weather year, we might move in 20 to $25,000 worth of road based material to keep the ground. the grounds and the roads operational. What I'd like the strategic plan to do is identify areas where we can do some of those things better and that's looking at that investment piece. Where can we invest into the business in a way that will benefit the cost base and then benefit how we price because it's all linked, it's an ecosystem. Thank you. Karen Finzel 36:12.480
Anything further? Frank Wilkie 36:14.440
No, I think I had my questions answered by listening and it was along the lines of Jess's question about what percentage of the 7.7% drop in visitation tropical could be attributed cyclone Alfred and the depression that followed that as opposed to cost of living pressures. Is there any way of ascertaining that? Robyn Mercer 36:38.649
I think yeah because we can put that down to the months largely so we can look at our year-on-year difference in March and April I need to jump back into the figures and I can report back to you afterwards on that. But numbers are picking up so from my perspective of being involved with the program for five years now I don't expect that trend to delivering continue and the ultimately it's about bottom line as well so you know it we run it as a business unit so every week I'm looking at the figures going okay let's pull back on that that expense for now and let's just hold off and so yes whilst the revenue might dip we a little can from night sold use our pricing increases which have been set in line with inflation to offset some of that and then we can also be smart with how we spend as well yeah it's been several years since I've received a letter of concern about anything to do with the holiday part so we just have have to to assume assume that that everyone's everyone's very happy with the level of service there. What sort of avenues are there for people to leave reviews and what sort of feedback are you getting? So I guess like any hotel or other accommodation provider, Google reviews is where most people will drop in a review. A little bit to TripAdvisor, you know, the most recent. One there was from May, I think, this year. So even though you can't book through TripAdvisor, people still use that to communicate to others. So yeah, that's the main way. Anecdotally, information is passed on and that's always collected by our management operators across the ground. And if we start to see a pattern, then we raise to see a pattern, then we raise it in one of our regular catch-ups because we try and operate under continuous improvement. Frank Wilkie 38:37.598
Are there any trends of areas where we need Robyn Mercer 38:44.855
Not that I've seen, you know, you look at the portfolio that's available to people that want a camp or caravan and you've got everything from your big four which has got a jumping pillow and a playground and a pool, through to Boreen Point which you drive in there and I always immediately feel the solitude of being in a place like that. Most of the comments we get are that people enjoy that so hasn't prompted us to think about what more we can add in built infrastructure it's more around keeping the kayaks all operational and the SUPs operational and and the fire pits there so that people can have that type of experience. of experience? Jessica Phillips 39:26.904
Last question just around our comms with our holiday parks do you just tell me like operationally how does how do you liaise with our comms team to make that there's consistent comms coming out of councils socials and things like that around the parks and continuous I guess advertising and you know the good news stories and yeah so part of and so the Facebook and Instagram and social media side of it is outsourced as part of a revenue generation scope of work in our management contractors so they have specialised people that are running Facebook campaigns and algorithms and things in the background that we're not aware of so that's the marketing side of it I guess usually around this time of year So-- Robyn Mercer 40:14.963
Usually around this time of year when a report comes up to council I liaise with the comms team and we might put something out I think six months ago something went out on LinkedIn you know as a post media release release, I guess, of how the holiday parks are performing and some of the numbers. Is that what you're meaning? Jessica Phillips 40:37.223
It was, yeah. I thought, so you have a budget for this that's outside of have a budget for this that's outside of our comms team? Because that's what I get from that. And we have outsourced comms. Is that...? Robyn Mercer 40:48.704
When you say comms, are you referring to marketing? Yeah. Yeah, so the marketing is run through. is run through the business unit and the budget for doing that. Jessica Phillips 41:01.816
So we don't do a lot of in-house, bring out comms team around the marketing side? Robyn Mercer 41:09.416
No, just because it's quite a specialised. I think maybe that would come through your strategic plan and how you market that. Is that correct? I noticed that council is waiting for the destination management plan to inform the strategic plan moving forward. I think what we've, not necessarily one dependent on the other, just that we've seen, the way that we've looked at the holiday parks over the past couple of years is where can we incorporate circularity. When we do asset renewals, we look at materials that have a better whole of life cost or have come from a recycling. So that kind of ethos we've already been incorporating in. Tree planting is something that we're looking at. We've got data now of five years of what tree species are working, what's not working. So a regenerative example is regenerative example is people can come and stay and plant a tree and it's it's funded within within like the business model in a way so what the strategic plan wants to do is just scoop up some of that and we saw the opportunity to that there is alignment with destination management planning and planning and destination management planning for that portfolio that we have yeah yeah that's great yes Thank You councillor destination management Amelia Lorentson 42:40.996
What I'm going to ask. Probably the only issue that I get about the parks are disposal of rainwater and I first want to acknowledge and thank you for all the work you are doing in this space. In referencing Cooroy the Boreen campground, I note there's now a grey water park grill that's been moulded in a booking confirmation, distributed to the guests, signed, installed, so thank you for all the work you've done. My question is how do we enforce that that actually gets done and can council, does council have any power? to request at a minimum that guests put a deposit at the booking that's refundable once their greywater is disposed at the proper dump point? Robyn Mercer 43:31.555
Yeah so in terms of just going one step back and looking at how we approach greywater at Boreen Point and North Shore so there is a central dump point a central dump point where people are meant to dispose of their grey water into that particular facility and then we dispose of that through our contract with Sutton's over time. Boren Point example I think there has been some feedback about concerns that the grey water is being disposed onto the ground. So a couple of things there. What have we seen on the ground and what are our observations? What have we seen? So the data that we've collected over time has not shown a lot of observations of that happening. So twice a day the operations require a park walk. And similarly we have grounds and maintenance staff through their management contractor that are on the ground. So we do see quite limited instances of that occurring. That's not to say that it's not, but it hasn't been something that it's not, that it hasn't been something that's come up to a level that we've had heightened concerns about it. In response to the community, what we have done is, there's always been a rule, because it comes out of the EPA. The Environmental Protection Act about disposal of grey water. So there's always been a rule that you can't dispose of it on the ground, it's illegal. And this is a requirement of guests that they need to use the disposal point. So that rule has always been there. What we've done is put what we've done is put when sorry it's cold what we've done when people book is when they receive their booking confirmation email it's it's right there bold at the top what the expectation is of their decision-making when they need to do something with their greywater and we've also put more We've also put more signage up within the Caird ground. In terms of monitoring what everyone does, it's a tricky one because at a peak period of 72 guests in-house, monitoring all of them that are going to be distributing or managing their greywater at different times of day is tricky. For that reason, probably a deposit. doesn't work. There's no way unless you're standing watching each and every campsite to validate whether they're doing the right thing. So what I'm comfortable with is that we're not seeing a lot of instances of people doing the wrong thing. If we did we would be addressing it in a much more stringent way. What I have done is reach out and talk with our environmental health team, we'll probably do a few spot checks. At the moment I'm I think we're in a good steady state there. Thank you very much. Thank you. Karen Finzel 46:35.633
And just on that noting that we've got in the report escape parts, they play that integral role in delivering high quality guest experiences and you've listed there they manage booking and guest maintenance, cleaning and hygiene, property services and integrated facility maintenance so I'm pretty confident you know that they'll have their eyes over this and be working. Yeah they're on site and present at all times. Thank you. Jessica Phillips 47:06.847
Last question, how often does the management contract come around for renewal? Robyn Mercer 47:11.547
Sure so they're in different cycles so there's three separate contracts. They're typically They're typically five years plus a two-year option. So the Noosa River contract was awarded in 2022. The Boreen Point contract was awarded early last year. And the Noosa North Shore contract was awarded in 2022. Noosa North Shore contract was awarded in 2021. Noosa North Shore contract was awarded in 2022. And the Noosa North Shore contract was awarded in 2022. And the Noosa North Shore So we're coming up to the option period next year. For them to opt for another two years or for us? I think it's a mutual, yeah. Jessica Phillips 47:46.212
Does that go through? Robyn Mercer 47:49.229
Not the options because the options are approved as part of the contract award, but the tender process, yes, follows the strict tendering process that we go through and then comes to council for for recommendation of award following evaluation and underpropriety. Right, thank you. Karen Finzel 48:07.485
Thank you. That's very comprehensive. Any further questions? Sorry. Is that a no? Was that a yes or a no? Oh, right, okay. No, thank you. Save her voice. Stephanie Bellone 48:18.062
That's all right. Thank you. I have kids, so it's like it's a requirement. Robyn Mercer 48:24.642
It will pick up and it will continue, so it's fine. Karen Finzel 48:27.922
Well done. We appreciate your commitment and dedication today. No problem. Thank you. So I'm happy to move it. have a motion. Thank you. So that was moved by Councillor Finzel, seconded by Councillor. Yep. Would anyone like to have their say before we go to the vote? Frank Wilkie 48:44.011
Thank you for your word of honour. Karen Finzel 48:45.151
No problem. Thank you. Frank Wilkie 48:46.431
Parks and Ham are very professional. Karen Finzel 48:48.891
Yeah. Yeah. Thanks. Thank you. We'll take it to the vote. That's unanimous. Thank you, Cathy. Thank you. all. Have a nice We are now moving to item 8.3, council remuneration update. Welcome to the table, Margaret. Margaret Gatt 49:08.880
Thank you. Good afternoon, councillors. Good afternoon. In December last year, the Local Government Remuneration Commission and independent entities established under the Local Government Act concluded its review of council remuneration categories of Queensland councils. This review included consultation with Queensland councils and other stakeholders and considered the size, geographical and environmental terrain of local government areas, population of the local government area including the area's demographics, the spread of population services... area's demographics, the spread of population serviced by the local government and the extent of the services the local government provides and any other matter relevant to the effectiveness, efficiency and sustainability of local government. As a result, the Commission has determined a new set of council remuneration categories and new maximum remuneration levels for mayors, deputy mayors and councillors, effective 1 July 2025. As a category B3 council, the remuneration to be paid to the mayor, deputy mayor and councillors will increase from 1 July 2025 as follows: the mayor, an increase of $3,935 per annum; the deputy mayor, an increase of $2,291 per annum; and councillors, an increase of $1,947 per annum. In addition to the remuneration determined by the Commission, councillors will also receive payment for any reasonable expenses incurred in discharging their official duties and responsibilities in accordance with our council councillor's expenses reimbursement and provisions of facilities policy reimbursement and provisions of facilities policy established under section 250 of the local government regulation. Ive payment for any reasonable expenses incurred in discharging their official duties and responsibilities in accordance with our council councillor's expenses reimbursement and provisions of facilities policy established under section 250 of the local government regulation. Just draw your attention to councillors within the executive summary of the report. There is a statement that's factually incorrect. Okay. It's not within the recommendation, just to give you some confidence that it's okay. I referred to the fact that we've only just newly been categorised as a category B3 council. That was incorrect. That happened in 2023. Thank you. Frank Wilkie 51:18.460
Director Gatt, just to clarify, these reviews happen once every four year term? Yes. And did I read somewhere that the proposed increase for Noosa councillors is 2.5%? Margaret Gatt 51:33.600
I haven't got the percent in front of me. It probably is contained within the attached report. attached report. I've just got the... I've just got the actual dollar values per annum. Yes. And the increase... I'm sorry, I should have... That's... Yes. Jessica Phillips 51:50.866
Sorry, just to follow up on that question, I think the four-year review is the remuneration category, but the remuneration level is really... That's right. Yes, sorry, that is correct. You're correct. That is correct. Larry Sengstock 52:02.966
It is 2.5.2.5. Karen Finzel 52:11.300
Would you like to continue? No, the report is finished. Sorry, apologies. Margaret Gatt 52:16.480
Thank you very much. Sorry, Karen Finzel 52:17.080
I thought there was a question in between. Yes. Thank you. for the report. Is there any further questions regarding the report? Frank Wilkie 52:24.840
So next year it could be, is the 2.5% based, how many 2.5% have any relation to CPI? Margaret Gatt 52:31.300
Yes, they do consider that, but it's similar to our federal assistance grant, where it's very complex methodology, which is why I read that out in the report, where they consider a whole lot of factors along with CPI, and then they would have a smoothing effect or a moderation effect, if you ask me today. Right here, Mayor Wilkie, for me to be able to explain that methodology to you, I wouldn't be able to do that. I'd have to take that on notice and come back to you with the detail of that. Karen Finzel 52:59.756
Yeah, there are a lot of things. I noticed what I found interesting was also the commission gives opportunity through the LGAQ. For other councillors to put in, you know, submissions around what they think, you know, is valued or important information. And that does get considered by the Commission. All local governments were provided opportunity to engage with the Commission at the annual LGAQ in Brisbane. So I think, you know, that's really important that, you know, all councillors across important that, you know, all councillors across the board have that opportunity to raise anything that's correct within the commission. Margaret Gatt 53:40.012
And that's what's contained within the attachment, the Local Government Remuneration Commission Annual Report 2024. Karen Finzel 53:50.372
So yes, even councils can have So yes, even councils can have their say in the matter. So there's democracy at work, which is good. Would anyone else like to add anything to the conversation? Frank Wilkie 54:03.440
Happy Murr, Madam Chair. Karen Finzel 54:05.320
Happy the 2nd. Would you like to make a comment? Frank Wilkie 54:08.860
Look, thank you for the report. It's always very difficult and awkward for councillors to be voting on matters like this. But it's often said that it's a thankless job, it's a hard job, it's 24/7. And from what I see, the councillors deserve to be able to keep pace with the cost of living and they're worth every cent of Karen Finzel 54:38.120
Thank you, well on that note, someone can disagree with me, I could say more, I could say more, it's for the life, it's for the life, the councillors, the Noosa councillors work very hard and they earn their money for the community, they're very, each and every one of them is incredibly dedicated and again I say they're truly deserving of this increase of 2.5 percent. Thank you Mr Mayor. Thank you for your report. We'll take it to the vote. That's unanimous, all in favour? Thank you. There is no confidential session and I note that the meeting closed Related Noosa Council Meetings
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