General Committee Meeting - 16 February 2026
Date: Monday, 16 February 2026 at 12:30PM
Location: Noosa Shire Council Chambers , 9 Pelican Street , Tewantin , QLD 4565 , Australia
Organiser: Noosa Shire Council
Duration: 02:11:31
Synopsis: Affordable housing MCU approved, Budget review: small surplus, capex cut, transparency queries, Major events funding split, Ops plan mixed, .7m fraud controls, ALGA motions.
Meeting Attendees
Committee Members
Brian Stockwell Karen Finzel Amelia Lorentson Jessica Phillips Frank Wilkie Nicola Wilson Executive Officers
Chief Executive Officer Larry Sengstock Director Community Services Kerri Contini Acting Director Corporate Services Margaret Gatt Director Development & Regulation Richard MacGillivray Acting Director Strategy And Environment Anita Lakeland Director Infrastructure Services Shaun Walsh Apologies (Did Not Attend)
AI-Generated Meeting Insight
Key Decisions & Discussions MCU25/0118 approved: 25 small dwellings as Affordable Rental Premises at 64 Lake Macdonald Dr, Cooroy; conditions per Attachment 1; processed under Planning Act 2016 s63(5) (Item 7.1) (00:58–09:32). Brian Stockwell emphasised Council acted as assessment manager, not landowner/policy-setter; peer review supported approval despite some acceptable outcome shortfalls (00:23, 12:52–14:44) (Item 7.1). Financial Performance to 31 Jan 2026 noted; operating variance mainly timing of January rates; positive revenue variance largely interest from higher cash holdings; rate arrears 5.8% (Item 8.1) (17:54–35:19). Budget Review 2 adopted: operating surplus revised to ~$92k; capital works reprofiled down by $15m to ~$79m, deferring Tewantin–Doonella Bridge ($7.8m) and shifting NAC filtration to winter (Item 8.2) (38:22–55:26, 54:17). Operational Plan Q2 noted: 77 initiatives on track/completed; 16 minor, five major disruptions; surge in customer requests post-November storm affected targets (Item 8.3) (01:07:44–01:12:49). ALGA motions approved (six by Cr Lorentson) and attendance of Crs Lorentson and Wilson endorsed under Councillor Expenses Policy (Item 8.4) (01:28:26–01:40:04). Major Event Sponsorship for 2026–27 transition year approved for $230k (confidential Attachment under LG Reg 2012 s254D(3)); strategy and criteria in development (Item 8.5) (01:41:21–02:11:15). All items carried unanimously except Major Event Funding (Cr Finzel against) (Minutes Items 8.5; 7.1; 8.1–8.4). Contentious / Transparency Matters Nicola Wilson questioned MCU lot size, setbacks, location relative to town centre, and remediation burden; acknowledged community submissions (53 received) (14:44–16:23) (Item 7.1). BR2 scrutiny: unresolved specifics on Lake Macdonald subdivision loan funding and a $1.095m “unapproved emergent” amount were taken on notice; reconciliation with prior confidential approvals pending (49:41–52:10) (Item 8.2). Calls for clearer “big picture” budget linkage and public visibility over Capital Works Executive (CWE) emergent approvals and prioritisation; CEO open to mid-term ToR review (57:16–57:47, 01:01:26–01:04:27) (Items 8.2–8.3). Major Events: concern over allocating 26/27 funds before adopting the Sustainable Events Strategy; risk to early-year events cited if delayed; vote split 5–1 (01:47:13–02:03:55, 02:00:22–02:02:40) (Item 8.5). Jessica Phillips sought community consultation on the events strategy; staff to workshop with councillors first (02:07:03–02:07:29) (Item 8.5). Operational Plan: councillors sought evidence for “on track” zero-emissions roadmap and fire management deliverables; several answers taken on notice (01:10:29–01:12:49) (Item 8.3). Legal / Risk MCU impact assessment: compliant with 8 m height, but accepts a limited 3-storey element, 1-visitor-park shortfall (6 vs 7), minor setback relaxations, and one unit private open space shortfall; performance outcomes met; peer review due to Council landownership mitigates bias risk (01:18–09:32) (Item 7.1). Infrastructure cumulative impacts addressed at subdivision stage; bio-basin sized for site; roads/pedestrian facilities meet standards; each lot to be assessed on merits (10:48–12:14) (Item 7.1). $1.7m fraud loss recognised in 2024–25; QAO unmodified opinion; all QAO recommendations implemented; third-party vendor master data verification to be live by mid-March (27:23–29:05) (Item 8.1). Disaster reserve $3.5m confirmed; financial ratios: negative net liability ratio reflects assets>liabilities; temporary asset sustainability ratio dip is timing-related to capex reprofiling (34:56–35:15, 44:02–53:46) (Items 8.1–8.2). Major Event allocations rely on confidential Attachment per LG Reg 2012 s254D(3); staff factored existing Council grants to avoid “double-dipping,” with gradual reductions flagged (01:55:19–01:56:57) (Item 8.5). Affordable Rental Housing – Planning Scheme Compliance Georgina confirmed “Affordable Rental Premises” is a new Noosa Plan definition: all units Public notification (15 business days) yielded 53 submissions; report tabled responses; external peer review endorsed recommendation (04:40–09:32, 12:52–14:44) (Item 7.1). Design references Cooroy milling heritage via “saw blade” skillion roof; landscaping and setbacks to main road maintained; perceived bulk managed within 8 m height (05:52–08:50, 16:23–16:58) (Item 7.1). Financial Management & Assets Operating revenue/expenditure tracking within ~2% of budget; interest revenue uplift from slower capex delivery; waste utility charges +$400k; employee underspend ~$800k (~2% of $33.4m) (17:54–25:58) (Item 8.1). Capex delivery confidence: ~$50m forecast spend with 50% already spent/committed by Dec 30; reprofile clarifies targets and reduces slippage risk (46:08–47:32) (Item 8.2). ICT software contract increases flagged at ~$600k upper limit; expectation to land nearer ~$450k by year end (47:35–49:39) (Item 8.2). Asset management: community buildings renewal historically under-invested; shift to more mature model; condition assessments blending internal expertise with specialists; de-amalgamation data gaps acknowledged (01:16:21–01:23:20) (Item 8.3). Major Events Transition Event funding portfolio moves from Tourism Noosa to Council from 1 Jul 2026; 12-month transition to honour contracts and build policy/tools; DMP community feedback drives sustainability/accessibility alignment (01:41:21–01:46:36) (Item 8.5). Interim assessment panel used existing TN processes; EOI drew ~15 applications; allocations held to $230k; mindful redistribution to reduce Council “double funding” across grant streams (01:47:13–01:56:57) (Item 8.5). Staffing: current resources sufficient for 26–27; future resourcing to depend on final strategy scope; councillors requested clarity on true internal costs (01:49:54–01:54:19) (Item 8.5). Environmental Concerns and Resilience ALGA motions target microplastics reduction and C&D waste recovery framework; recycled water for firefighting; all align with DMP/community expectations (01:29:42–01:38:15) (Item 8.4). Bushland Reserve Strategic Fire Management Plan experienced disruption due to conditions; follow-up on timelines taken on notice (01:10:29–01:11:18) (Item 8.3). Zero Emissions roadmap “on track” status challenged; need for forward-looking targets/investment plan evidence flagged (01:11:28–01:12:49) (Item 8.3). Cyber Security, Fraud Controls and Governance $1.7m fraud loss fully recognised; QAO unmodified opinion; control enhancements implemented including independent vendor verification by mid-March (27:23–29:05) (Item 8.1). ALGA motion seeks national program for cyber security, fraud controls, and intel-sharing across local government, reflecting recent incidents (01:29:42–01:36:52) (Item 8.4). CWE process and delegations discussed; CEO open to councillor-led review; BR2 used to capture emergent works within affordability constraints (56:25–57:47) (Item 8.2).
Official Meeting Minutes
MINUTES General Committee Meeting Monday, 16 February 2026 12:30 PM Council Chambers, 9 Pelican Street, Tewantin Committee: Crs Brian Stockwell (Chair), Karen Finzel, Amelia Lorentson, Jessica Phillips, Tom Wegener, Frank Wilkie, Nicola Wilson “Noosa Shire – different by nature” GENERAL COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES 16 FEBRUARY 2026 1 DECLARATION OF OPENING The meeting was declared open at 12.30pm. 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 Brian Stockwell (Chair) Cr Karen Finzel Cr Amelia Lorentson Cr Jessica Phillips Cr Frank Wilkie Cr Nicola Wilson EXECUTIVE Chief Executive Officer Larry Sengstock Director Community Services Kerri Contini Acting Director Corporate Services Margaret Gatt Director Development & Regulation Richard MacGillivray Acting Director Strategy and Environment Anita Lakeland Director Infrastructure Services Shaun Walsh APOLOGIES Cr Tom Wegener 4 CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES 4.1 GENERAL COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES 19 JANUARY 2026 Committee Resolution Moved: Cr Frank Wilkie Seconded: Cr Amelia Lorentson That the Minutes of the General Committee Meeting held on 19 January 2026 be received and confirmed. Carried. For: Cr Brian Stockwell, Cr Karen Finzel, Cr Amelia Lorentson, Cr Jessica Phillips, Cr Frank Wilkie, Cr Nicola Wilson Against: None 5. PRESENTATIONS Nil. GENERAL COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES 16 FEBRUARY 2026 6. DEPUTATIONS Nil. 7 ITEMS REFERRED FROM COMMITTEES 7.1 MCU25/0118 - APPLICATION FOR MATERIAL CHANGE OF USE FOR MULITIPLE DWELLING - AFFORDABLE RENTAL PREMISES (25 x SMALL DWELLINGS) AT 64 LAKE MACDONALD DRIVE, COOROY (referred from Planning and Environment Committee dated 10 February 2026 - Item 7.3) Committee Recommendation Moved: Cr Brian Stockwell Seconded: Cr Karen Finzel That Council A. Note the report by the Senior Development Planner to the Planning and Environment Committee Meeting dated 10 February 2026 regarding application MCU25/0118 for a Development Permit for Material Change of Use - Multiple dwelling – Affordable Rental Premises (25 x small dwellings) situated at 64 Lake Macdonald Drive Cooroy; B. Approve the application in accordance with the proposed conditions outlined in Attachment 1; and C. Note the report is provided in accordance with Section 63(5) of the Planning Act 2016. Carried. For: Cr Brian Stockwell, Cr Karen Finzel, Cr Amelia Lorentson, Cr Jessica Phillips, Cr Frank Wilkie, Cr Nicola Wilson Against: None 8 REPORTS DIRECT TO GENERAL COMMITTEE 8.1 FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE REPORT - JANUARY 2026 Committee Recommendation Moved: Cr Jessica Phillips Seconded: Cr Amelia Lorentson That Council note the report by the Revenue Services Manager and Financial Services Manager (Acting) to the General Committee dated 16 February 2026 regarding Council's financial performance to 31 January 2026. Carried. For: Cr Brian Stockwell, Cr Karen Finzel, Cr Amelia Lorentson, Cr Jessica Phillips, Cr Frank Wilkie, Cr Nicola Wilson Against: None GENERAL COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES 16 FEBRUARY 2026 8.2 BUDGET REVIEW 2 - 2026 Committee Recommendation Moved: Cr Nicola Wilson Seconded: Cr Frank Wilkie That Council A. Note the report by the Revenue Services Manager and Financial Services Manager (Acting) to the General Committee dated 16 February 2026 regarding Budget Review 2 for the 2025/26 Financial year; and B. Approve the proposed amendments to the 2025/26 Budget and Long-Term Forecast as outlined in Attachments 1 to 7 to the report. Carried. For: Cr Brian Stockwell, Cr Karen Finzel, Cr Amelia Lorentson, Cr Jessica Phillips, Cr Frank Wilkie, Cr Nicola Wilson Against: None 8.3 OPERATIONAL PLAN 2025-2026 Q2 QUARTERLY REPORTING Committee Recommendation Moved: Cr Karen Finzel Seconded: Cr Frank Wilkie That Council A. Note the report by the Executive Officer to the General Committee dated 16 February 2026 regarding the Operational Plan 2025-2026; B. Note the progress report for Quarter 2 (FY25/26) of the Operational Plan 2025-2026 provided as Attachment 1; and C. Note the status of Council's Operational Key Performance Measures for Quarter 2 (FY25/26) provided as Attachment 2. Carried. For: Cr Brian Stockwell, Cr Karen Finzel, Cr Amelia Lorentson, Cr Jessica Phillips, Cr Frank Wilkie, Cr Nicola Wilson Against: None 8.4 PROPOSED MOTIONS FOR SUBMISSION TO ALGA NATIONAL GENERAL ASSEMBLY 2026 Committee Recommendation Moved: Cr Frank Wilkie Seconded: Cr Karen Finzel That Council note the report by the Chief Executive Officer to the Services & Organisation Committee Meeting dated 10 February 2026 regarding motions to the Australian Local Government Association (ALGA) National General Assembly (NGA) 2026 and A. Approve the following motions to be submitted to the ALGA NGA 2026: 1. Motion #1 titled: "Reducing Microplastics in Waterways" (as provided at Attachment 1), initiated by Cr Lorentson; GENERAL COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES 16 FEBRUARY 2026 2. Motion #2 titled: "Recycled Water for Emergency Firefighting" (as provided at Attachment 2), initiated by Cr Lorentson; 3. Motion #3 titled: "Emergency Medical Workforce Support" (as provided at Attachment 3), initiated by Cr Lorentson; 4. Motion #4 titled: "Internal Cyber Security, Fraud Controls and Information Sharing in Local Government" (as provided at Attachment 4), initiated by Cr Lorentson; 5. Motion #5 titled: "National Youth Employment & Training Pathways in Local Government" (as provided at Attachment 5), initiated by Cr Lorentson; 6. Motion #6 titled: "National Framework to Improve Construction and Demolition Waste Recovery" (as provided at Attachment 6), initiated by Cr Lorentson; B. Approve Cr Lorentson and Cr Wilson to attend under the Councillors' Expenses Reimbursement and Provision of Facilities Policy (Councillors' Mandatory Representation funding - Item 2.1) and present the motions at the National General Assembly, should they wish to attend. Carried. For: Cr Brian Stockwell, Cr Karen Finzel, Cr Amelia Lorentson, Cr Jessica Phillips, Cr Frank Wilkie, Cr Nicola Wilson Against: None 8.5 MAJOR EVENT FUNDING APPROVALS Committee Recommendation Moved: Cr Amelia Lorentson Seconded: Cr Jessica Phillips That Council A. Note the report by the Manager Economic Development and Destination Management to the General Committee dated 16 February 2026; B. Approve the Major Event Sponsorship Funding for a transition year being 2026-27 as outlined in Attachment 1 - Major Event Funding Recommendations (Confidential IAW with S 254D(3) of the LG Reg 2012) subject to sufficient funds totalling $230,000 being allocated in the adopted 2026-27 Council budget; and C. Note that the new Noosa Sustainable Events Strategy, Policy and Assessment criteria are under development and will guide future processes. Carried. For: Cr Brian Stockwell, Cr Amelia Lorentson, Cr Jessica Phillips, Cr Frank Wilkie, Cr Nicola Wilson Against: Cr Karen Finzel 9 CONFIDENTIAL SESSION Nil. 10 MEETING CLOSURE The meeting closed at 2.42pm.
Meeting Transcript
Brian Stockwell 00:00.000
And we acknowledge their elders past, present and emerging. We do have five, six councillors in attendance with Councillor Wegener, an apology for today. The next item we have is the confirmation of minutes. Would someone like to move the General Committee Meeting of the 19th of January? We had a mover of Councillor Wilkie and second of Councillor Lorentson. I presume there's no debate, all those in favour? And that's unanimous. We have no presentations, nor do we have deputations. We have one matter referred from committee and that's regarding MCU 25.0118, application for Material Change of Use for multiple dwellings, affordable rental premises. And that's at 64 Lake Macdonald Drive, Cooroy. We welcome, to Coast2Bay. And just a reminder councillors, today we're assisting this application not as the landowner, nor as the setting of the policy. We're here as the assessment manager. So our role is that's actually one of assessing compliance against the planning scheme. So, Georgina, would you like to give us an executive summary, please? Georgina 01:18.568
Thank you. Good afternoon, councillors. So the application that we have today is for a Material Change of Use consisting of a multiple dwelling development in the form of affordable rental premises. The form of 25 small dwellings and is recommended for approval subject to conditions. Sorry, Cathy, would you be able to pop up that page for me? So I imagine we're all relatively familiar with this site as it is part of a larger council project which included the approval of a subdivision for one into six lots. For clarity we will be located on a future lot one which is at the front of the site here today oh for um so it was one to six lots sorry and that included a drainage reserve as well as a park lot and the recommended condition of approval is that no works are to commence until the title of lot one created. So essentially means that the road will be constructed the park lot will be created the drainage preserve will be created as well as the landscaping will be in ground and planted along the common boundary of note the proposed development does consist of an affordable rental premises so this is a new definition that's been introduced in the latest scheme amendment visit which essentially means that the land use is secured as affordable housing and will be managed by a registered proper housing provider for the life of the development for clarity I suppose we can go down and break into what an affordable rental premises is so that is an affordable housing it consists of affordable housing entirely that means each unit here is less than 100 square metres in size it is owned and leased by a registered provider which in this instance is coaster Costa bay and is meant and is managed by a registered community housing provider as a long-term rental housing for a minimum of 20 years entirely the development has been for clarity the development has been described correctly in a multiple housing development consisting of affordable rental premises while the Noosa Plan does not specifically refer or define social housing for clarity the proposal does meet the social housing requirements under the capital funding agreement the proposed the development in this location and in this zone being community facilities is a consistent land use. The development was required to follow an impact consistent application pathway required public notification which is over the course of 15 business days. Over that period 53 submissions were received and have been summarised within the report so you'll see that in a table format. Of the compatibility of the development with this with the scheme there are some minor variations to the acceptable outcomes which we'll start talking through if we can pop to the next slide please so this is an area of variation which refers to the height so we are compliant with the eight the required eight metres metre building height limit however we do have a three-story component in terms of where this is going to be seen on the site limited to I suppose the construction of the new road so this render is taken in between the adjoining residential property to the east and it's limited to this elevation on the other elevation because the site isn't cut it will not be visible and this takes us to the car parking layout. So the planning scheme where it stipulates the number of car parking spaces that is to be provided per unit which is one per unit we have 25 units as well as one space per four units for visitor spaces so this results in a total demand of 25 spaces and seven visitor spaces the development consists of six visitor spaces so in this instance we are short one car parking space in consideration of the site, the constraints of the site. Been recommended for approval despite this area of variation this is noting the extent of communal open space available on the site our third point of variation is our building setbacks so as we can see on the screen it's quite limited it's the area that's shaded in red the area of variation on the east relates to roof form no impacts at ground level and this is a setback of five point six metres with the remaining of the building set back five metres the area to the south of development that you can see is highlighted so that sort of requires a required setback of six metres as it adjoins another reserve they're seeking a varied setback within this location as well noting it will be joining road reserve which will also be landscaped this has been considered part of the assessment and negligible so be quite well screened yes and then to our next point so we have unit 15 so the reason this one's in front of us today is because it is has a short full of private open space accessible from a little living room so the planning scheme requires a 20 square metres per unit at ground level in this instance with 17 we're short 33 square metres and that's why this is I suppose a relaxation in this instance again noting the extent of communal area available on the site this has been considered appropriate despite this and our next area is relates to the roof form along the Lake Macdonald frontage so while the roof form of the development does not replicate the traditional residential character that's sought by the local planned code design of the development has been considered in regard in respect of the history for Cooroy so the building has been designed to reflect a saw blade which is in reference to the region's history of so again this isn't a flat roof we're not going to be I suppose we're not supporting I suppose a parapet it's like a skillion roof it's a saw blade that's following the Lake Macdonald frontage the roof form style that is I suppose desired by the scheme typically does refer to single dwellings and duplex developments it'd be I would imagine be quite difficult to get a traditional queenslander style roof for a building of this size wild without while I suppose upholding the integrity of the scheme and maintaining compliance with our eight metre height limit. Despite in summary, despite these areas of non-compliance with the acceptable outcomes, the development does uphold the relevant performance outcomes and strategic framework of the scheme and delivers significant community benefit through the providing of much-needed housing within the Shire and has been recommended for approval again of the site is under the ownership of council prior to this application being put in front of us today and the application was reviewed by an external consultant who agrees with the recommendation of the report for approval. Brian Stockwell 09:30.291
Thank you for approval if you have any questions? No? Amelia Lorentson 09:37.206
Yes? I Councillor Wilkie? Threw some questions to Patrick over the weekend and Richard I just reference just one in terms of cumulative impacts. Can you explain, so I think that my questions were sort of dealing whether or not we should be looking. Straight to the question please, Councillor Lorentson. My question was, had council considered the cumulative impacts of shared infrastructure, stormwater and roads, not only on lot one, but of the whole subdivision? And that's when I look at Brian Stockwell 10:23.561
The Planning Act 2016. The questions at this item can only relate to lot one. We're not dealing with the whole subdivision. So if you'd like the question about lot one. Amelia Lorentson 10:33.252
It is about lot one. Through the Chair, my question is, did counsel council consider cumulative impacts of shared infrastructure on the whole subdivision not just solely on lot one? Larry Sengstock 10:49.655
When Patrick Murphy 10:50.495
The reconfiguration was assessed, the provision of suitable infrastructure was considered. At that time. Notably, the bio-basin that has been approved on a separate lot has been determined to be of a suitable size to accommodate development across the entire site. In terms of the roads, the roads meet our engineering standards in terms of suitability of their access and the new internal road provides opportunity for any future development to also achieve suitable access from it. There's also, I mean, additional infrastructure in terms of footpaths within the site for pedestrian movement, additional footpaths on Dianella Court and across the frontage of the site, a new pedestrian crossing in that regard of the channel for pedestrians to move into the then the middle of the road for pedestrians to take refuge or refuge and connect to other areas within proximity of the site. Shaun Walsh 12:14.331
And may I just add in addition to patrick's comments, Councillor, that each project that or lot gets assessed on its individual merits as well. So any future development applications will be subject to the performance requirements of the scheme and if there's additional infrastructure or requirements relating to that type of use and that lot then they'll be required to demonstrate that as part of any application. So therefore in relation to this one it's obviously focused on can this proposal and then the proposal meet the scheme requirements for the development that's being sorted into Brian Stockwell 12:50.540
Thank you. Okay. Well I'm happy to move the staff recommendation Councillor Finzel, yes. Councillors, this is a fairly straightforward application when viewed in the light of the report. The development proposal is a design by one of Noosa long-term leading architects and while. As we've noted, there's a few areas where we don't need acceptable solutions, acceptable solutions are just one way to meet the performance outcome and as is clearly identified in the development as proposed clearly meets the performance outcomes because we are the landowner we have gone to that extra extent of getting a peer review and the peer review clearly said that the assessment inclusions are considered reasonable relevant and supportable and accordingly the report provides an appropriate base for council decision and goes on to say the identified matters of non-compliance and that's with acceptable solutions are limited in nature and do not result in planning, amenity or land use impacts when assessed in accordance with the performance based framework of the Noosa Plan 2020. I do note that there was a large number of submissions, many identifying concerns and I think the report and the peer review recommendation does answer those in an appropriate format. An impact assessable application we consider everything from the strategic framework down gives us a good basis to say that this particular development is not only consistent with the strategic framework within the planning council's higher-order Housing Strategy. I can therefore recommend its approval. Thank you. Who else would like to talk to the motion? Nicola Wilson 14:44.649
I will. Thanks for the report and the overview. I'm gonna make note of some of the submissions that were raised by community members and thank them also for their time in making those submissions. A few of those concerns were that the development is not in keeping with the character of the town. It's not close to the centre of town, it's not walkable to shops and services and particularly on hot or rainy days. Not near a bus stop. The land was planned for cemetery use and having these extra units will put increased pressure on Dianella Court which is currently a quiet cul-de-sac. And already has some challenges I'm going to add as well that it's a shame that this site couldn't have been found closer to the centre. It is a small lot that's being allocated to this development we've seen that there are now issues with the size of that block meaning that some of the setback requirements in the planning scheme can't be met due to that size and the plan that's been given to us. Council determined the size of that lot and yet it's a lot now that doesn't actually quite fit the 25 units all the different requirements. It's also a shame that the site wasn't somewhere that didn't need to be remediated at expense to ratepayers and the time that it's taking for these 25 units to be able to be built. That's all I'm going to say. Thanks Brian Stockwell 16:17.124
Anyone else wish to talk to the motion? Otherwise, the issue of setbacks are ones that have been considered well. The ones to the new internal are just basically the Eaves. It is a site that has got two road frontages and a park area going beside it so it is very common for relaxations in those sort of situations to be granted. The overall result of this development one that maintains as large as the normal setback to the most important frontage which is to the main road going along the front on the drive and the landscaping and the way that the architect has designed the units would mean that there would be no perception of that this particular development wouldn't meet the performance outcomes of the scheme. I put the motion. Those in favour? That's unanimous. The motion's passed. Thank you we move on to section 8 is reports direct to the general committee and the first item is the financial and we welcome the acting manager and Acting Director to the table and I presume Zac you're going to give us a brief overview Zac 17:54.946
Thank you Chair so Through the Chair I'll take the report as read in front of you which is the Financial Performance Report for January 2026 the January report provides us with 58% of the financial year's data for context there has been no significant changes to the previous comments provided in the report other some re-profiling of the capital works program just like to note in regards to the report in front of you that it does use budget review one as the underlying budget for comparison noting that the subsequent report committee will be around budget review two from an operational point of view for context there isn't a significant change to the underlying operating position or movements so there can still be provided reliance of the data included in the performance report in front of you as noted in the report council's current operating position to 31st of January shows a 3.2 million dollar variance against its operating surplus budget I just would like to draw attention to this today because of the nature of how we ultimately prepare our underlying budgets and recognise rates so in the January 2026 report we have revenue recognition or recognise the January rates levy and its totality so six months worth of rates revenue which shows up in our operating surplus and what we will look to actually provide a provide over time is that council receives its rates in January and over the preceding five months expenses will be incurred that's why our operating result shows a slightly different level to what was in the December 2025 report to provide a simplest simplistic view of how this works and relating it to a household if you happen to be on a wage and you receive your wage for two weeks over the preceding two weeks you then spend your expenses or your household expenses and ideally at the end of that period you either break even have some savings left. Simplistically that's what our council does with its rates. We collect in January. It just happens to be over the preceding six months that we actually incur it. So it's a balancing effect of our expenditure. Will look to bring in some graphs and illustrations to outline this because when you look at the finance report it does show quite a significant surplus but it is simply a timing difference to date. I would like to draw your attention to elements of the report. So on the top of page two there is a table that outlines at the highest level both our operating revenue and our operating action expenditure. That reports both aspects actually reporting within two percent of the budgeted level so our budget and our year-to-date expenses and operating revenue are tracking very closely. The table also illustrates the 2.5 million dollar positive variance today in terms of revenue. Now we historically have shadowed questions as to whether the operating surplus is driven primarily by rates. I address that today. So the 2.5 million dollars of additional revenue is primarily actually driven from our interest revenue, which is a result of more cash holdings than we expected at this time of the year, primarily to a slower than anticipated delivery the capital program, noting that the cash review will be done by QTC, which will inform our budget 26/27 procedures around cash holdings. There is also another $500,000 variance, which relates to rates, levies and charges. Notably, the biggest portion, 000 that relates to waste utility charges. Is $400 So as to the question as to whether general rates or rates are too high and is driving the surplus, across our $106 million budget for rates, we are only tracking about $100,000 over the budget. It is not a material aspect as to the operating surplus today, if that makes sense. In terms of our operating expenditure, we currently have a $800,000 underspend as it relates to the major employees benefits or employee benefits. To provide some context to how this works, that $800,000 variance can sell material as an outlier when we don't provide the supporting context. So our employee benefits year to date spend is $33.4 million. So we are currently only at an $800,000 underspend or less than 2% of the $33 million budget. So it doesn't help to it helps to explain the variance that when you look at it at an overall perspective that it is between one and five positions that have possibly been held over the course of the year on a rolling basis. So it doesn't compel a significant material underspend to that expense. One of the questions that was previous monthly finance report was a question as to what made up the other materials and services category. So this ultimately ties to our financial statements and how we draw individual cost categories together. Categories together. So is primarily made up about cost of goods sold, materials which can cover aggregate, landscaping, sand, general, concrete and timber, venue hire, and it also includes our state government waste levy and waste levy subsidy. It's a bit of a catch-all category in some ways, so that gives you the information for how it's built up. If there is a drive to a further analysis, I understand that we can also provide that, but that was one of the questions we did take on those in the previous monthly finance report. Regards to the capital revenue and expenditure, I won't make any significant comments here, noting that the BRT report will follow this report, which has further commentary as to our budget review position, which will probably provide some more salient information to councillors around that. In regards to our cash management and investment performance section, just on what I said earlier building that we have slightly higher cash reserves than we intended at this point of the year, about 18.4% higher than we were tracking in January 2025 today. Primarily driven by slower than expected spend in the capital works program. Council investments is a general comment of performing well against industry benchmarks, but we do anticipate to provide a much more consolidated update to councillors through budget proceedings around our cash position, investment position, and when we see ourselves going into the future. Regards to the rate barriers, on page seven on the report we provide our summary as at the 31st of January 2026, noting that as of January we are in rate arrears of 5.8% having received around $400,000 in payments in the January month. Noting that you always hear give me a paradigm around the idea of it being cyclical in nature and that in any January and July period we have a rates revenue. So our January rate arrears do not include the January arrears that are outstanding because technically they are not in arrears until February. So this is the most valid indication of kind of where our absolute truest form of beta rears sit. Knowing that councillors have made common as to trying to get that under the five cent benchmark. So this is our truest form of where we sit with our rears. Noting that this is why we have our debt and charges policy that we are looking to implement over I time and encourage ratepayers to bring their rates arrears down and actually actively work with my team downstairs to actually look at how we can deal with the rate arrears to bring that down. One final comment, noting that there's no section in this report as to questions taken on notice which had been in previous reports because the AMOM was covered naturally through the contents of the report. Thank you. A lot of detail. I'm happy to take any questions. Brian Stockwell 25:58.333
Thank you. Councillor Frank Wilkie 26:06.379
Thank you, Zac. Forgive me if you've covered it in the report and you may have referred to it under the work in progress section. We just have a question about property, plant and equipment and the statement of financial position under non-current assets and reading it correctly there's been a drop of the value of about three million dollars from the value of our property, plant and equipment from the end of last financial year to date. Why are we selling off any equipment? What's going on there? Zac 26:46.460
Through the Chair, to provide you the exact detail, I'd probably need to take that question on notice. There's probably a couple of different factors that would make that up. Of those can be evaluation, that factors into there, but into the specific difference of that. If you're happy, I'll take that on notice. I can get back to what makes it up. Brian Stockwell 27:03.582
Questions? Councillor Lorentson. Amelia Lorentson 27:05.522
In terms of the $1.7 million fraud loss, has that been fully dealt with and recognised in the 2025 audited financial statements? And are there any remaining financial exposure related to this matter? Margaret Gatt 27:22.627
Through the Chair, I'm happy to take that question. Thank you, Councillor Lorentson. It has been dealt with in the 2024-25 financial year. That's why it's not referred to in our monthly finance report and our BR2 document. A BR2 report further on in the agenda. It has been subject to the Queensland Audit Office review through our financial statements and we received an unqualified and unmodified audit opinion. It does stand out in our materials and services part of statements as a fraud-related loss and it also was mentioned in our annual report. Amelia Lorentson 28:00.483
And, sorry, just the second part of that question, Marg. Are we satisfied that the lessons learned have been embedded into policy or process? Margaret Gatt 28:10.323
Thank you for that question. We were aware of the fraud, a number of processes, procedures, and other operating aspects were put into place, as you would be aware, I've reported through to council and through to the Audit and Risk Committee, every one of the Queensland Audit Office recommendations as a result of the fraud event have been implemented. The last part of those recommendations or was at our own initiative was the independent third party software which verifies our vendor master file or any changes to that. Our timeframe for complete implementation of that is due in the middle of March, but we're on track to achieve that timeframe. Thank you very much. Brian Stockwell 29:05.750
Councillor Phillips. Jessica Phillips 29:07.051
Hi, thanks. Just a couple of questions in relation to the corporate services department. Is there any gaps in resources, or are we at full capacity now? Margaret Gatt 29:23.717
Thank you, Councillor Phillips. So there's four areas in corporate services. I'm assuming, or can I clarify with you that you're referring to financial. Okay. So in finance, financial services, we have full complement of staff, except for one. And we've stock. Got interim gaps in place with contract and labour hire to assist us with our BAU and making sure we're ready for our next set of financial statements. Yeah. Jessica Phillips 29:58.396
A bit of a follow-up question then, if you were to identify three sort of biggest financial risks to the organisation now that would impact our community, would you be able to give me those? Or do you want to take that on notice? I think I'll take that on notice. Margaret Gatt 30:14.126
It's very broad, Amelia Lorentson 30:15.126
But maybe Jessica Phillips 30:15.526
Just. Thank you. It can be specific around. The monthly financial reports and I'm just really interested to see if every month there's just three things that stand out, or one thing that stands out the most would be really handy to know. Margaret Gatt 30:29.116
Thank you, Councillor Phillips. We'll ensure we take you. Tuck that up for our next monthly finance report. Brian Stockwell 30:35.502
Councillor Wilson. Nicola Wilson 30:36.862
Thank you. I'm just looking at the balance sheet. I only just noticed, sorry, so I haven't raised it. Sure. Some of the balances are the same, like January 26 as they were at June 25, so I'm looking at the non-current liabilities. Nothing's moved there? Is that, is that normal? Zac 30:56.649
So Through the Chair, the financial, the statement of financial position is probably one of the outliers in terms of our monthly reporting that it's a periodic statement as opposed to being a monthly statement, so some of the aspects of that will be updated. You will see a full update for the current new position as of BR2 because that's one of the requirements under that, but in regards to I think it's the contingent liabilities will be the balance as at the 30th of June and when we look to compile the financial statements at the end of the year it will be updated so it's a nature of the report not being a live report if that makes sense. It's only kind of done concurrently throughout the year. Amelia Lorentson 31:36.798
Question possibly to the CEO. In terms of the $15 million reduction to the capital works program, how confident is management in delivering the revised program? Brian Stockwell 31:57.690
He's mentioned it in his through the cheese so where it is mentioned in the report, sorry to interrupt just for context, is we allude to the fact that there was an additional commentary provided in this report because the BRT report that comes out immediately after this to General Committee provides more support in detail. And to answer that question. Okay, so if we're happy we can deal with that in BRT. Jessica Phillips 32:25.090
I probably just have one follow-up question if that's right alright around and it might be to the CEO in relation to the contract services for tree works probably given the extensive rain that's still occurring outside. What have what's the in the background where there's is there consideration to you know the more rain the more tree works we're going to have so I'm trying to work out how to question this as like as straight as possible. You know to me there's only going to be more and more ongoing um tree works. Can you tell me if there's ever revision around having internal staff with arborists and is this an expense that's going to continue to grow? Larry Sengstock 33:10.473
So currently yes we are reviewing that and we've got we've got plans to bring more internal stuff to deal with recognise that even the weather we've had over the weekend even though we didn't have huge amounts of rain it still creates more work for our existing workforce as well as our contractors so we're looking at better ways to are reviewing and putting up proposals for additional staff to help us to cater to that but we have to go out all the time and you know the issue we've got with external workforce as well contractors everybody's using them when this happens it's not just us that calls on their services so yeah we're looking at that at the moment. Jessica Phillips 33:50.772
And then one last allotment will be around asset management then because I see the weather is something that will continue to impact that so where are we at with our asset? Brian Stockwell 34:01.522
So I'm not going to allow that because that's not related to Jessica Phillips 34:04.042
The. It's okay, I'm happy with that. Nicola Wilson 34:05.502
Happy to. Yeah, offline. Frank Wilkie 34:10.342
I guess it's a question about the amount held in the disaster management reserve. What is that amount? Can you refresh my memory? Was it $2.6 million? Just through the Chair, I could ask for some context as to where. I don't think that's the word. Risk and opportunities, what are the threats to council's finances of and functions is a natural disaster. And we resolved, I think back in 2014, to put money set aside in the disaster management reserve, which you referred to under risks and opportunities. I'm just wondering, what is that is it a question or notice. Used to be. Margaret Gatt 34:57.597
Through the Chair, Councillor Wilkie, I can answer that. I'm just referring to our audited financial statements in a separate document. Natural disaster rehabilitation, we have, as at the end of 2025, 3.5 million. 3.5? Yes. Increased. Thank you. Brian Stockwell 35:15.266
Okay, would anyone like to move the motion? Move Councillor Phillips, second Councillor Lorentson. You've got the floor, Councillor Phillips. I'm just going to be very brief on the continued improvement of the reporting. Thank you. Jessica Phillips 35:27.666
That makes it very clear for the everyday person, so you to the team for that. And I just want to also make note around the rate arrears reduction and give some credit where it's due in hope that continues to see people paying off on rates and debt. So that's a really positive thing for council and yeah I for me it's going to be more around how community can see the big picture through financial reporting like the month-to-month is great but it feels like if you were someone that missed a month or two it's really gauge a really good understanding of the big picture stuff so it's more around making a comment that I might be focusing more around how it all sort of fits together now because I've got my head around the month-to-month because of how the reporting is being presented so thank you. Brian Stockwell 36:32.771
Others wish to take the motion, Councillor? SPEAKER_08 36:34.171
I'd thank the staff for the report and also the verbal overview today is bringing more clarity to the table and I'd like to note that the financial impacts of the reclassification they're quite significant and how they've been recorded I'm satisfied that you know they're my questions that I've raised for a long time and I'm really satisfied that there's clear reporting on that and we're seeing that progressing so thank you for that, that's great. Amelia Lorentson 37:08.442
Councillor Lorentson? Zach and mark, you're probably tired of us commending you on your reporting but I just I do I do really want to note that in terms of us discharging our obligations terms of good governance your reporting allows us to do that it's clear it's simple it's transparent and there's accountability and it also gives community confidence that we are really you know adhering to our principles. Of sound fiscal management, but thank you, makes our jobs so much easier. Frank Wilkie 37:46.386
Now I'd just like to echo those sentiments. The better the understanding of the scheme, SPEAKER_03 37:54.707
The better the confidence the community can have in the reporting as well. So, thank you. Brian Stockwell 38:04.657
Would you like to close, Councillor Phillips? I think we have an expensive. Okay, I'll put the motion. Those in favour? That's carried unanimously. We then move on to item 8.2, which is Budget Review 2, 2026. And is this, once again, you, Zac. I just have to take a Zac 38:23.817
Thank you Through the Chair. So, again, I'll take the report as read, a reminder that council has underlying requirements under both the Local Government Act and Local Government Regulation to look at its adopted budget, where it believes there is material differences or needs to reflect its position as of the 30th of June, 2026. Budget provides us with the chance to incorporate any new or emerging actions, any additional grants or subsidies, and also any other movements during the year that weren't understood or forecast at budget review 1. Noting that budget review 1 was adopted at council's Ordinary Meeting on the 21st of August 2025. At a conceptual overall level BR2 seeks to modify council's operating result by $140,000 from a $232,000 surplus to $92,000. It also looks to recast and re-profile the capital works program by $15 million in forecasted delivery to the 30th of June 2026. Overall still projects this a modest operating surplus today, broadly in line with both of the previous original budget and budget review one. For contextual, context around the BR2 process itself, staff make submissions for consideration as part of budget review. Finance team then works with budget holders to review submissions for accuracy and to arrive at an initial draft position for consideration. The executive team then reviews that in completeness to understand where we sit at an organisational perspective. Workshops have been held with councillors eventually coming to the purpose of the report that sits in front of you today. Just to reiterate kind of the approach that we take to. Reviews as council, the key criteria that need to be met in amending the budget include our alignment with our own financial sustainability policy, the requirement for eligible operating and capital projects to be delivered, delivery ready, sorry, commitment to complete by the 30th of June. Capital submissions are to be reviewed and authorised by the Capital Works Executive before inclusion in any budget review and all operating capital submissions are then confirmed by the executive team to council itself. I would like to just draw attention to a couple of aspects to the report specifically. Page 2 of the report provides a table summary of this like a review position and proposed amendments for budget a budget too the eventual position of the budget itself. Page 3 outlines additional operating grants. It's important to understand where council has received an operating grant. Likely there is expenditure attached that. So they are provided in the report but eventually come back to a nil position because of a contra item as it relates to an expense. Attachment 6 of the report highlights in its totality the summary of operating adjustments that form the basis of the $140,000 net change to the operating surplus. Page 3 also includes re-profiling of the capital works project today with attachment 7 providing the full breakdown of our capital works program in its totality. And the full BISCAM this conveys re-profiling from a $94 million to $79 million overall program with no adjustment to the QRA program itself. The primary drivers between the change in the re-profiling itself is the Tewantin Doanella Bridge renewal which has carried forward balances of $7.8 million that will be deferred into the next financial year. This is primarily driven to an extensive design review process, the need to Resolve utility impacts and finalise the design. There is also notably a $1.8 million reduction to the Noosa Aquatic Centre, the 50m-25m filtration system upgrade. This has simply just been delayed in its delivery to be in the winter months to have less impact on our revenue line-up and associated with that. One last thing, I'd just like to draw attention to attachment five, which is our financial ratios. In that report itself, the assets sustainability ratio comes back with an orange line on it, saying that it is below the 80% threshold. This is simply difference, as is to re-profiling through BR2, and this will be omitted once we do our budget proceedings for 26/27. So this isn't actually an issue outside of threshold, it simply will be cashed as a result of when we profile next year's capital spend. I also would like to draw attention to the net large liability ratio. It currently sits in a negative ratio which is in contrast to how you would expect it to be. The rationale behind it or the context is that our current assets on hand, which is our cash that we hold primarily, actually greater than our liabilities. Holding as a negative ratio, a negative percentage, that actually in the case means it's positive that we have a greater couple of current assets than our liabilities associated with that. Thank you. We'll be happy to take questions. Brian Stockwell 43:56.552
Thank you. Questions? Amelia Lorentson 44:01.072
Questions? In terms of the, and we've just had the application in front of us before, the Lake Macdonald Drive residential subdivision. In terms of the loan, how will repayments be funded and have the total cost of the loan including interest and fees and the cost of the loan over its life, has that been factored into the amount that's presented on attachment 7 of the revised capital works program budget review? Zac 44:34.550
Cheers, so the theory loan balance there is the sheer and total cost as it relates to the project itself. There are pluses and minuses as it relates to it, some other aspects. It wasn't a confidential report so I won't talk to that. So just in terms of what's in front of you today itself, we do a whole of life costing so interest and everything else that is associated would be built into the any costings around it. There so they should be the 6.2, 6.3 million dollar figure will be the total cost of the project and the loan will be the true cost of everything related to that's built in. Knowing that we always procure our loan assets through the same providers that we do and it will be built in over time and eventually build into the total cost of the project. Sorry, a bit wordy there, my apologies. Does that make sense, my apologies? Yeah, thanks. Brian Stockwell 45:26.578
Cancel that at the end, I'll go to the next. Amelia Lorentson 45:29.458
She's here a lot, sorry. Thank you, Councillor Phillips. No, it's okay, you can move forward. Jessica Phillips 45:36.140
Can you expand or define what you mean by re-profiling? I don't know if it's just not clear to me. What do amendments to the delivery of the capital works. So Through the Chair I can defer to the Director Infrastructure Services. It's not a Facebook profile so I'm just trying to work it out. Brian Stockwell 46:04.942
Thank Shaun Walsh 46:09.222
For the question Councillor. So basically what we is we look at the ability to deliver the do program within a year and sometimes projects are delayed so we then park that expenditure into the subsequent financial year. So as a result of working with the team to really realistically profile the projects and when the expenditure future amounts will actually hit our budget. Become quite clear that we won't get through the 63 million dollars it's actually our 50 million dollars that we're confident we're spending this year. Now I just note taking on board Councillor Lorentson's question earlier in the early part of the agenda about confidence in that expenditure amount in the service organisational committee report that was presented earlier this late last week we indicated that of the 50 million there's 24 million dollars that actually profile both in existing expenditure and committed amounts that we've actually got under contract the actual 50 million as of December the 30th and that's actually the best result we've had in the last number of years because normally our expenditure actually accelerates from this point forward leading up to the end of financial year and that's as a result of the increasing resources that council have deployed. Also I want to appreciate that we're profiling work undertaken by the finance team so we actually have a much clearer goal of what we're trying to achieve. Brian Stockwell 47:26.254
So it's the profile of expenditure that changes over different financial years. Thank you. Councillor Lorentson, do you have another question? I do and Amelia Lorentson 47:36.554
Thank mark, for meeting with me beforehand. In terms of the ICT software maintenance, there was a $600,000 increase. Just an interesting conversation that we had prior to this meeting. If I can ask you, can you give all the councillors of what's driving the $600,000 increase in ICT software maintenance? And the question I really want to ask is, are you anticipating this level of increase to continue in future years? Margaret Gatt 48:10.582
Thank you, Councillor Lorentson, Through the Chair. As reported to councillors at the BR2 workshop, was it last week or the week before? I've forgotten, I'm sorry. Yes, I did make comment on that $600,000 increase. That's at the upper we do expect. Those, just to clarify, it's not software maintenance, it's actual increases in software contracts. So that, yeah, so it's increases that not foresee. On reflection, given the, one would call the, I don't know, volatility is the right word, of the world economic market. So also at a national level and international level, we deal with those headwinds, for want of a better word, and we could have anticipated those increases at an earlier stage. Potentially, at BR1. We didn't, but at least we've caught them now at BR2. We do believe that will be the upper limit, and I'm hoping to report through um through the end of the financial year that the costs will be less than that not a huge amount less, but I'm hoping to around 450 Max is what the extra will be. Thank you. Brian Stockwell 49:39.486
Councillor Wilson. Nicola Wilson 49:40.726
Thank you. Just back to the capital works and the Lake Macdonald Drive subdivision, could you please explain what unapproved emergent amount of 1.095 million is that's coming into BR2? Zac 50:00.553
The Chair, and just can I briefly go back, my apologies to Councillor Lorentson, I didn't distinctly answer that question, I was a little bit worried on that, so my apologies. Regarding the I had two minutes to complete it myself, so apologies that. I'm happy to take that question on notice and provide you a much better response if you have time to consider it, and I will take that on notice and come back to that's all right. Thank you very much. In regards to the 1.9, I would have to take that on notice myself, noting that the Director and Christian isn't within the room, so if comfortable I could take that on notice and then provide it as part of the overall summary. Back to that position. Nicola Wilson 50:40.530
I'm not very comfortable with that. Is it something that we're voting on? Shaun Walsh 50:44.916
If I could provide some context. I understand it's a reconciliation and I encourage reconciliation between the amounts that we've provided and then the actual budget that's actually established. And the interrelationship between the two. And the amounts reported to CWE don't quite reconciliate with and the actual project team process in the council and I think that's what we're going to do in the interim budget so, that that's not understandable. Zac 51:20.212
Yes, so through this year, having reflected on the original confidential report that was provided, which we can't talk about in detail. Is approved with MPI, so it was within the constraints of the overall funding packet that was approved, so there was no change to the overall funding that was included in the original approval by council itself. I believe that this is, again, the very of infrastructure's point of reconciliation to make sure the actuals reflect the underlying funding and as it's attributed with the amount that's noted with loan there are some pluses and minuses that need to be worked through in terms of ultimate funding. So sorry I'm being cautious just as I know the report that was taken was in a confidential system and I can actually pick and base and my apologies on that. Does that answer or read to answer some of your questions? Nicola Wilson 52:11.357
Another couple sure. In the statement of financial position, so attachment two, just between the original budget and revised budget there's a lot of movement in contract liabilities and provisions. Could you give us a bit more detail on what's happening there? And it's both current liabilities so for the share, again to take it on point of specificity, I have to take it on notice that there's a number of factors that make that up. So I can speak to each of those at some point. It could be back to the previous question about where the market's at the moment. And one more is the ratios. Is attachment five. The asset sustainability ratio is 223% of the hiring community. And then is it likely to drop significantly in the following years? Zac 53:11.844
Yes, Through the Chair, if I didn't convey that early enough in my opening statement. So as a result of BRT, we've found the current year ratio is up. What we expect to do once we capture the re-profiling as we've alluded to, we'll carry forward balances and go through budget 26-27 proceedings. That's $69.7 will come back materially above the threshold. As a result of BRT, we don't actually re-profile the subsequent years. So it's a timing difference of anything and once you, budget proceedings will actually come, they will correct itself. It's a timing issue. Brian Stockwell 53:47.844
Cancelled. Jessica Phillips 53:48.773
Around the NAC filtration. Correct me if I'm wrong, I thought it was signed last year as already for winter, but now it's put off for another winter. So can you just say that to me? Margaret Gatt 54:01.813
Councillor Phillips, is that okay if I just defer to the Director of communities to respond to that? Thank you. Kerri Contini 54:17.420
Thank you, Councillor Phillips. So in terms of the deferral, it's really a matter of just a month and a half, but because it's the same winter, it's this winter, but instead of it falling, the expenditure falling primarily in this financial year, shifts to next intention is still to go ahead this financial year, and this winter, it's just, it's a timing issue that pushes the expense into another financial year, so work is undergoing at the moment, it's just around when the expense occurs. Yeah. Brian Stockwell 54:54.999
Okay, Councillor Wilkie has a hand up. Amelia Lorentson 54:58.639
In terms of our sealed roads network, we've had quite a few deputations in terms of sealing of gravel roads, and I note that the program does list gravel road networks. Um are there plans for sealed gravel road upgrades in the near term, or is that something that we just park for now and discuss as part of our budget deliberations. Margaret Gatt 55:22.944
Maybe a question to the Director Infrastructure Services? Shaun Walsh 55:27.984
Thank you for that question Councillor. That cover, that budget cover is the renewal of existing gravel roads and the re-sheeting of gravel to keep that into a reasonable setting. Standard. Reasonable statement. We have knowledgeable councillors, some requests to expand the seal road network and we'll be considering that further as part of the budget process between the 6th and the 7th another question now, Jessica Phillips 55:51.181
Thank you, around CWA, Capital Works Executive. I'm probably just interested, especially now I'm hoping to get on that committee as well, how decisions are made by council's CWB CWA committee. Compact with those for made through budget reviews. I'm just interested in understanding the decision making process and how they each connect. Margaret Gatt 56:18.570
Through the Chair, Sean and I can both respond to that. Of the capital works, in terms of reference, specifically, has the CEO able to make under delegated authority those decisions for emergent works to ensure more efficient delivery of capital works as they are emergent and needed. And then the report that Director Infrastructure Services referred to that came to last week, Services & Organisation Committee reports on what decisions have been made at the time. Capital works committee. Jessica Phillips 56:52.889
We have a follow-up question there to Shaun Walsh 56:55.069
The CEO, if I could respond to it, there's a full terms of reference prepared for this Capital Works Executive about what's in scope and what's not in scope, and very happy to take any answers through those terms of reference. They're reviewed every time there's a new term, and we've always received good feedback to ensure that those delegations are really clear. Jessica Phillips 57:16.180
A follow-up question then to the CEO around. The terms of reference. Reviewed in the new term, is there any possibility we could bring it mid-term, or is that just something that. Larry Sengstock 57:31.864
That's the cycle we run. To change that I'm happy to say we can bring that to council. You can look at it if you think that there's a need as a group to review in more formal circumstances, I'm happy to look at that, but at the moment, to me personally, it works, the process works, I think, to have the councillors on the CWE. Again, the CWE, as Shaun said, is really about emergent works, so we've got a process to keep the wheels rolling, and it's emergent works that sit within my authority to approve. If it's over my authority, then it obviously has to come to council for further deliberation and approval. Brian Stockwell 58:14.742
The nexus between the items we've currently got. So it's emergent works approved by capital works executives that will be reflected in the budget? Larry Sengstock 58:22.042
Yes, and that's the reason for BR2 is to capture those so we can make sure we can afford them. But they're captured within our financial statements. Because we're also very cognisant of, you know, not just really approving them. Again, any councillors that have been on that committee would back it's just something where things come along and, you know, a roof blows off or something breaks and something needs to be fixed immediately, we need to have that capacity to bring it to somewhere that gets that authority and it doesn't just come to me, it comes to a group, we agree it, and then it's up to me to basically sign it off. So, again, it's another check. And I believe that it works very well at the moment. Brian Stockwell 59:15.220
Thank you. Would someone like to move? Thanks for this, you know, we have been well briefed. Sorry, who's seconded it? You have two other seconders. I reckon Councillor Wilson was first, but I'm looking for. Who's the Chair? Oh, did you? If Councillor. Moves Councillor Wilson, second Councillor Wilkie. It's all good. I'll let you talk to it. You'll be much more convincing than me Nicola Wilson 59:45.441
Thank you for the report and all the questions that you've been able to answer today. I just want to actually highlight something in the reporting that I think is new and worked really well for me. It's in attachment 7, the revised capital works program budget. The right hand side of the page where we've got how each project or program is being funded. I find that really useful. So we've got whether it's grant funding, loan, levy reserves, other reserves, depreciation, general rates. I find that really good to look through and see how much is funded by depreciation. So, yeah, just a no- word there that I enjoyed that part. I'm happy to support the recommendation. Thanks for all your work on this. Brian Stockwell 01:00:31.855
Cancel Amelia Lorentson 01:00:32.380
Just a suggestion. Zach and Mag. Risk and opportunities, the reports are often just referred to the council's risk register, that it identifies the number of risks that could impact ongoing financial sustainability. Would be really great it to have the top five risks, and I know I'm sitting, doing the course at the moment, and across all local governments, those risks are from top of mind, cyber security, climate change, human resourcing etc but it would be really great to have just a small chart. What have we identified as high risk? Thank you. And thank you again for excellent reporting and making our job so much easier. Jessica Phillips 01:01:23.143
I'd you're welcome. Thank you. Like to speak to it. I was a bit nerdy as well. Attachment 7 was even printed out and highlighted for me, so that was one step even more than I. It was really. It's actually really great for the community to see a document like that. And because of the lens of, you know, just the household budget or the everyday resident, I think that was a really great attachment, so thank you for that. I guess, sort of, to similar what I was saying before, my concerns are more around not individual line items, but just how it all comes together as one. I think unless you're watching every monthly meeting, reading every report, it really is hard to capture where money is spent. And in the first know, one of the things I wrote on the board was build trust with the community and gain confidence from them to see what was being. Decisions in the room. And so that's why. Know, I'm probably going to continue on about the CWE, even though it's. I have confidence in the process. I think it would be really important that community probably get more insight into how that connects. With our budget review, because for me that's something that I've been learning. So it's really not about, yeah, each line item for me, it's been more around how you put it all together. I really reiterate to reiterate that community. Expects public money to be managed really well, and this council has done it for years. I've lived here my whole life and watched it from a distance, but now I'm in the room. I really want to see more understanding on understand the level of putting it all together for them. So yeah, I think we're nearly there. I can see already that there's changes in the reporting, but if you can just take more of my points around, I'll probably get disappointed in just the lack of visibility over the big picture stuff and how it all comes together and how things are prioritised. I think that can get really misunderstood and shake public confidence. So I will probably be raising more and more in the budget reviews and coming into good timing into the budget for this year that I'd really like to see it all connect a little bit more for me but I'm already appreciative that we're closer to that so yeah again I don't need to say any more about the reporting is already so much more clearer for people but if we can continue that I think that will really really help build that confidence back in community communities. As to where it's all going, where their money's being spent and how it's being prioritised, thanks. Brian Stockwell 01:04:27.276
Councillor Wilkie? Frank Wilkie 01:04:28.196
Yeah thank you, just building on what Councillor Phillips has said, every term councillors make requests of the corporate finance staff about their reporting, what they would like to see in it. What we've seen here with the budget review and the monthly financial reporting is the accumulative effect of that over many, years. So thank you for being open to taking on board our suggestions and making it as clear as possible. I'm finding more and more that the reporting answers more questions and raises them, but you're always open to taking questions, so that's a really good Thank you. Brian Stockwell 01:05:18.675
I think one thing that we probably don't do enough just reiterating how fortunate we are as a council to be in such a strong financial position. To have to explain why the net liabilities ratio is a negative is not something very many councils have to do. At a low level of debt, even though we're spending 79 million dollars worth of capital works you I always refer back to when I first got into council. It was well below 20 million dollars a year in capital works. So, that has increased. The fact that we're in surplus, the fact that, you know, we try and manage it so it is not, you know, the cash reserves aren't greatly increased by having excessive great prices. So, we're now, you know, basically break even in terms of our surplus, you know, less than a hundred thousand dollars from memory. That's very tight for a huge budget of ours, you know. So, the fact that we do manage it, and yes, we have got some good cash reserves, and the one thing that I suppose another sort of message to the community, if we spend all that cash reserves on capital works this year, then the pressure on the operating budget next year to have raised rates because we'll have a increased depreciation, so that link between how much new stuff we build to increase and depreciation is a real balancing act in terms of local government budgets, but overall this review is a worthy one. It one where we've looked at new initiatives but there may be one of those reviews before the end of the financial year if we're sailing well. Can't so listen to your thoughts. Nicola Wilson 01:07:17.009
Thank you. I'll put the motion. Those in favour? Brian Stockwell 01:07:20.469
That's unanimous. SPEAKER_04_b 01:07:22.109
Thank you. Brian Stockwell 01:07:31.230
So the next item is the operational plan 25/26 quarter 2 for the repulse two quarterly report and we have a executive up here yanchi Wolff here to give us an argument. SPEAKER_04_b 01:07:44.434
Good afternoon councillors so this notice report provides a quarter two progress update on the delivery of the 2526 operational plan. Overall performance remains positive with 77 of the initiatives on track or completed. 16 initiatives experienced a minor disruption and five a major disruption. For the major disruptions it's the Kabi Kabi engagement commitment plan however as you would be aware it's currently being addressed through the budget review process. Then we have the progression of stage four for the regional art gallery but the report is now scheduled for April 26 to come to council. Then we have a scoping of a workforce planning model. It has experienced a major delay as well. However draft plan and scope are anticipated for March 26. Then we have the finalisation of the Boreen Point Campground master plan. This is a bit unclear because there is a bushfire risk. This has not been resolved yet. Some of the key achievements: Destination Management Plan, as anyone would remember. It's a great achievement for Noosa. The Tourism Noosa Roadmap as well. The associated Tourism Noosa DEET is now scheduled for delivery in March. It's requested by Tourism Noosa. We also saw the successful trial of a community engagement panel, which is fantastic. Initiate. And initiation of the engagement phase two for the draft Noosa Botanic Gardens Master Plan. We also saw the implementation of a sports development grant program to support local athletes and coaches competing nationally and internationally, quite timely with all the exciting things happening at the Olympics at the moment. And in addition to that, in attachment two, this report provides an overview of council's current key performance measures. Overall, the majority of these measures performed in line with targets previous, in line with previous reporting periods. You will notice, though, that there was a 10% increase in% requests received, which caused a decrease in the number of requests completed within the target date, and this was likely caused by the storm event late in November, which saw a huge increase of requests coming in, obviously for tree removal, vegetation clearing, and so forth. You would be aware, the council crews are still working through the backlog of that work. That is the high-level summary. Any questions, happy to take them. Councillor Phillips has turned off. Brian Stockwell 01:10:28.898
Mr Chair, two minutes. You may. Jessica Phillips 01:10:29.760
Just a quick question around the line disruption of the bushland reserve, strategic fire management plan, that one, I just want to know, given all the rain we've got, it means we'll come into a hotter summer, so can we just see if, can I about when that will be finished uh the initiative number yeah the pro uh well the strategic five management plan 2021. Yeah um delivered planned burns, some mechanical fuel reduction where conditions allow. I would imagine the disruption is because of the rain, but I'm going to assume that, but I'm guessing I just want to know what happens after this as to how it gets back into on track. SPEAKER_04_b 01:11:19.170
Going to take that question on north and we'll provide the after meeting, considering that the directors can undercut. Nicola Wilson 01:11:28.845
On 4.7.1, which is develop the road map and investment plan towards syria. Emissions for council services. I just want to know on what basis has that been determined to be on track, given we haven't had any draft road map, we haven't talked about any future targets and we haven't talk about the investment plan yet. So while it says it's a report coming to council in April, the January workshop was cancelled and so far all those seven workshops have been backward looking and we haven't talked about anything future oriented yet. So I just want to know how that was. What's being measured there because we've just only done track. SPEAKER_04_b 01:12:09.159
Yes again I apologise I would have to take that on notice and reach out to the team to get some advice in that matter. I do understand that we obviously go through regular workshops in that matter and there's progress there on an ongoing basis. And it would be interesting to see if there are any other questions. Would obviously then relate to the key milestones of the project. Some of these projects are obviously not just annual, like one-year projects, they are multi-year projects and I have to trust that the Director against those milestones provides an appropriate assessment of the initiatives where there's a minor or major delay. But I'll confirm it. Brian Stockwell 01:12:49.253
Any further questions? Amelia Lorentson 01:12:50.633
Councillor Lorentson, can you. And maybe, I'm not sure whether you can answer this, John C, maybe this is a question to people and culture when we get more deep dive, but in terms of staff turnover rate, do we have any data in terms of how our 19% compares to other local. Of similar size? And I've just got a few questions around that. Is the staff turnover, the vacancies, voluntary, involuntary? There emerging themes when people leave the particular departments? Is that information separate. Yeah, that's what I. Brian Stockwell 01:13:33.475
Can I. So, Director Gatt, is this something that a future briefing on workforce plan and things like that might address? Margaret Gatt 01:13:44.904
Thank you. Through the. Councillor Lorentson, as previously reported, we are with our new manager of people and culture. We are working on having. We're actually working on a project management plan for the development of the workforce capability plan, which will talk about employee lifecycle, talk about how we compare with other councils, also what's contextually relevant just for our council, and where the other outliers are. So we're hoping to have the draft PMP through to the executive for consideration and endorsement by the end of March, and we're hoping to have a draft by the end of this calendar year, because it's quite a large body of work that obviously requires consultation in quite a detailed way with all levels of management and other levels across the organisation. Amelia Lorentson 01:14:34.910
I mean, they're very important document. In terms of the key performance measures, when was the last time that was reviewed? SPEAKER_04_b 01:14:47.712
The key performance measures were as implemented as they are right now, but we obviously are looking into reviewing those key performance measures. We have used them for maybe one and a half years to my understanding, and we are receiving our feedback from some of the operational teams in terms of what else they would like to report and what they do not like or what they like about the current key performance measures. Obviously, we also want to look across the organisation what they report, so that is basic work that's coming up, and this is part of our ongoing improvement of the corporate reporting system that we actually are reaching out to the teams and see how can we improve what else do we want to see here. You and but once we do a proper review this will obviously also draw two councillors, in terms of seeing what would like to see here as well. Thank you very much, Johnston. Johnson. Brian Stockwell 01:15:42.270
Councillor Phillips. Jessica Phillips 01:15:43.103
This one might be for Director Contini, community services, if these are all taken on notice in relation to another minor disruption around progress of asset management planning for council's community service buildings, to ensure that all guys to meet the function needs of current and future users. It says building condition assessment reports to be 70% completed, but I guess my biggest one is just understanding the risk to council with any community with 28% of comprehensive asset management plans near completion. Kerri Contini 01:16:21.636
Thank you, Councillor Phillips. I'm happy to take that question now. It's one of the big pieces of work that we all acknowledge needs to occur, and that's having asset management plans for all classes of our assets. Community facilities, both those under council owned and managed operations, and those under community organisations. So this is a piece of work that there wasn't funding or resources available, through infrastructure services, so we have taken that on board in community services, and have a staff member working patiently through this, and with the support of infrastructure services helping to do the condition assessments, which are critical. So we've started on the risk, high value assets, things like the big, you know, Noosa the library with all its complexities, the aquatic centre, and then that will gradually work its way down through to simple ones like halls. So it's a long piece of work. Our goal is to get a model so that the first couple take a very long time and then that should simplify things. Going forward. Jessica Phillips 01:17:41.146
A follow-up question then, because it did sit with infrastructure didn't it, so can I maybe understand how the determination that it went to community services, only because in my mind it's infrastructure, but I probably Kerri Contini 01:17:54.567
Well, I think, yeah, I mean, we have a lot of assets that need asset management plans and I was conscious that we were bringing up emergent requests for funding that should have been identified through an asset management plan and given the workloads on loads on the asset management team. We took it on board to start to address this ourselves but it's in partnership with infrastructure services. One of the issues that we've had is the model around condition assessments so some of the condition assessments that we had that were contracted out gave us very high highly-level information that might have said for example this component is poor but no information or for example this component such as a roof is in fair yet we're having to we're finding emergent issues so we decided to take a different approach and actually use the incredible skills within our building facilities team who know those buildings really thoroughly to get their perspective on condition assessments and that's given us much greater detail and confidence in what the conditions are. Still using external technical experts where we need them but really grounding those condition assessments to understand you know what parts of our facilities are actually in fair and good condition and where we need to spend the money to address significant issues Jessica Phillips 01:19:32.691
Is the technical assessment done through infrastructure or external. Kerri Contini 01:19:39.560
Some of it is done externally. Um some things where we're for example looking at the State of something that an internal team member can make comment on some it has to be external if it's for example assessing the condition of a technical thing at the knack you need the expert to do that or if it is an air conditioning system you want air conditioning experts to do that so it depends on what it is but if it was for example the external condition of a wall and its paint you know you might be able to use internal stuff that. Jessica Phillips 01:20:15.714
And just one final follow-up so then how through that will it come into the ARC or budget review because I would suggest that it would come through as a submission from staff to executive so how do I then feel confident that I can make it? Kerri Contini 01:20:36.783
So I can comment first and then I'm sure Director Walsh will fill in any gaps, but we use asset management plans in two ways. The first is to guide our annual renewal program, so our general maintenance program around when the walls might need to be repainted, etc. So that gets built in and you can then develop a planned renewal schedule over the next 10 years the advantage of that is that we could for example say so at the moment if we need lighting done in a building we're handling them one by one in an ideal scenario we should know when the lighting needs to be major across a 10-year period and have a contract rolling each year so we get efficiencies and we get certainty in programming that so annual renewals will make a big difference the next is understand understanding what the significant issues are whether it's roofing that needs replacing whether it's air conditioning that needs replacing and you would see that come through in a the capital works program at budget time. Shaun Walsh 01:21:55.247
Yeah, I think I can totally concur with everything Kerri said. Probably what you'll see in the evidence in the 26-27 is a reintroduction reinvigorated asset renewal program for community services buildings so that figure will increase to reflect real data so because the renewal program is under invested at the moment so and historically it's from de-amalgamation we were provided a very poor asset base and the priority to date until very recently has been on the high cost assets such as roads and pathways at the expense of the less but community sensitive assets of community buildings we need to profile so in the last six months I've put a briefing note to the executive about the more mature model for asset management in the organisation and we're currently working through those steps and I would be pleased to advise of a new approach in the near future. I would also note that infrastructure services have also been impacted by that previous prioritisation in the ground of playgrounds because playgrounds were relatively low cost. We had playgrounds that were up to 40 years old that were actually profiled and the system was only 10 years old. The asset hangover from Sunshine Coast Council and that's led us into disrepute with the community. So I just want to note that it's not just community services, it's almost these public sensitive assets that require additional focus to ensure that we're looking after a very Kerri Contini 01:23:20.028
One of the issues Councillor Phillips is that when we de-amalgamated we did not get a full complete list of what our assets were. So obvious assets, the ones that we operate were very clear. But it's taken a long time and that still isn't clear on exactly the assets that we have in our portfolio. Jessica Phillips 01:23:50.714
When we talk about disrepute with the community, working closely with our community groups, this has affected a lot of them very closely. Do you guys work, how do you work with properties and managing the arrangements of the lease in terms SPEAKER_08_b 01:24:13.293
Our community groups that have to apply through that grants process to have buildings fixed so they can progress like even putting solar on their roof. So can you talk to me a little bit about how property is engaged in this process? I can talk generally about the process. It is very marginal to whether it's part of the operational report. I can certainly take that question on us and step you through practically the process after this, Councillor. Because it is very significant to our community groups. Shaun Walsh 01:24:47.366
I'm also happy to volunteer. A briefing to the councillors in the near future about a revised, more mature approach to asset management and where we're heading towards. Brian Stockwell 01:25:01.088
So we are dealing with operational performance report, or the report, have we got any other specific questions, or would someone like to move? Councillor Lorentson? Amelia Lorentson 01:25:12.321
Just a thought. I would love, as part of the reporting, to understand when these projects begin. Um began because a lot of these have been going on and on and on. And to me, it's, you know, when we look at, and the report states ambitious priorities within 2023 to 2028, I refer to like the work in progress. Is there a point when we decide, well, this has been, you know, this hasn't been addressed for the last five years, maybe there's a point when we just sort of park it, or it's no longer, the data or the reporting is no longer relevant in 2026. So just an idea, johnsy, if we can just get an idea of when the project started, and just to give us a little bit more information. SPEAKER_04_b 01:26:07.232
Yeah for the Chair so obviously this um the reporting system is under constant development and improvement, so that it's definitely something which is on our radar that we. Because we obviously know that there's quite a few initiatives contained within the report, which are multi-year, and for us to better represent these multi-year projects and how they're tracking over those years. There's also in this report that are ongoing. We don't necessarily expect that they will ever disappear unless we decide so, pretty much. Obviously we are providing some more visibility in terms of the timeline of those initiatives or the categories, I can work on that, of course. Amelia Lorentson 01:26:49.219
Thank you very much, Councillor. Brian Stockwell 01:26:53.419
Do want look- I'll second. Councillor Finzel moved and seconded by Councillor Wilkie. Councillor Finzel, you have the floor. Karen Finzel 01:27:03.436
Well, I think it's really excellent to get this reporting and this update. It's a great, you know, bird's eye view, an overview of where we're going. It's really good for the community to see how we're tracking and hold us to account. Yeah, I'm looking forward to seeing how we progress the matters raised through the report and around the table today. Looking forward to Director Shaun bringing back that report to us and thank you Director Contini for answering questions at the table today. You know, it's a collaborative approach how we work together to get the best outcomes for our community. So thank you for the report John C. It's a good overview and it's encouraging to see how we're incrementally progressing forward beneficiaries. Thank you. Brian Stockwell 01:27:53.555
Okay, anyone else wish to talk? No? You want to close and argue with yourself, Councillor Finzel? I'll put the motion. Those in favour? That's unanimous. Thank you, John, to you both. We now move on to item 4, which is proposed motions for submission to ALGA National General Assembly. Thank you very much. Are you going to give the overview? SPEAKER_04_b 01:28:26.740
Well, I guess I'll give the overview. Every year, there's the opportunity to provide motions to the Australian Local Government Association, similar to the LGAQ, where we also provide motions. To highlight aspects that we believe, as a council, need to be highlighted and need to be provided, or the attention provided to it, so that some action may be taken. ALGA is a body that takes all those thoughts out, except emotions. Accept the motions, once they go to the conference, they get accepted and then they go forward to whatever level in terms of. Trying to get some activity or action associated with those. Councillor Lorentson has provided these six motions. And I think it's probably best to. I think your paper was read rather than go through them, but if you want to go through them one by one just in highlighting, Councillor, so that we can make sure that we've. You've provided a little bit of background on each one. Amelia Lorentson 01:29:41.882
Sure. I'll just give you a quick summary. Again, I'm going to assume this is as read. Also reiterating what the CEO has just said, that once this actually goes to the local southern local Australian government association. Some may actually not get accepted and some may. So I have six motions and I'll just read the titles, reducing no surprises with what I'm bringing forward, reducing microplastics in waterways. Motion number two, recycled wastewater for emergency firefighting. Motion number three, emergency medical workforce support. Motion number four, internal cyber security, fraud controls and information sharing in local government. Motion number five, national youth employment and training pathways in to local government, and number six, a national framework to improve construction and demolition waste recovery. So this year, I'm bringing forward a series of motion that I believe align with our Corporate Plan and community priorities. They centre around community and environment. Centre our and youth. These issues are not new and they won't fix themselves. And that's why I keep going year after year. I think I've gone six years in a row to Canberra advocating them. Because without continued pressure we won't get the national support and most importantly we won't get the funding that we urgently need as small local governments. I've got a couple of environmental motions that one focuses on reducing pollution before it reaches our oceans and waterways and one motion calls for Federal investment as in funding in advanced wastewater treatment so we can stop microplastics and emerging contaminants at the source. Clean oceans and clean waterways matter deeply to this council and also our community. Places like Burgess Creek remind us how fragile these systems are and why best practice treatment essential. This motion pushes for stronger product stewardship so producers not councils carry the cost of managing problematic waste like micro plastics and textiles again local shouldn't be the ones that are absorbing these costs. Two of my other motions relate to emergency management. One seeks support to use recycled wastewater for firefighting, just so that it just reduces the strain on potable supplies. And the other motion calls for the creation of an Australian medical reserve. So senior and semi-retired doctors. Can volunteer during disasters. That motion has actually been brought to me by the AMA and by our retired doctors that are here in Noosa. Both the motions there aim to build stronger safer and more resilient communities that can respond effectively when emergencies hit. The cyber security motion, that's another area where I believe needs national support and in light of recent incidences here in Noosa and the Gold Coast, my motion for a local government cyber security and forward resilience program would help us upgrade our systems, strengthen staff training and most importantly, share real-time threats. Intelligence. Again councils especially the small ones can't face cyber threats alone but another motion in environment that's to improve construction demolition waste recovery that one excites me a little bit construction waste is a major contributor to our landfill volumes and resource loss a national focus or requirement for source separation you know separating construction and demolition waste at the source would help us reduce our landfill pressures and improve recycling rates and cut back illegal dumping and finally I've got a motion on our the most important people in our not the most important but one of the most important sectors in our community and the age group I think 18 to 24 that we see are leaving Noosa so that motion focuses on youth employment and it asks the commonwealth to establish a youth employment and training pathway program with each council so the idea we are as a council one of the largest employees especially here in Noosa but we are a key employer so council youth apprenticeships and internships and it should be proportionate to its population and that just means that we ensure that our young people across Australia have access to careers in local government with major shortages in planning engineering surveying and digital roles I think it's really important that I would the funding but also we get support in terms of our regional training pathways and national recognition that local government is a key employer in summary the motions and that I've put forward reflect the issues that I personally care deeply about and some again issues that matter to this community and to this council our environment our community and our youth deserve strong advocacy and that's why I keep going to Canberra and bringing these motions forward each year local governments can't do this work alone we need meaningful support and funding from every level of government if we want cleaner waterways more resilient emergency systems stronger cyber protections and a pathway for young people which is secure local government careers we must keep pushing advocacy is how we make noise we stay on the national agenda and how we secure the change our Noosa community needs. Frank Wilkie 01:36:49.247
Do you move it Mr Chair? Because the recommendation has a insert names. I'm going to move that and it can be amended. I wouldn't accept a motion. You can't have approved councillors insert name as a motion. No as written by approved councillors. Councillor Lorentson. Yep. To attend. Yep. Amelia Lorentson 01:37:15.336
Blah and that's it Councillor Lorentson will accept and will attend I'm happy to accept and attend um on the provision that there is no other Councillor that wants to go because I have attended over the last few years I think under mandatory so I think in terms of equity um I really would love to throw it at the table if anyone wants to take my spot the Brian Stockwell 01:37:46.263
Is it Councillor it's not true, it's actually true. Be approved okay and it says should they wish to attend so it's just if they decide so what Councillor wilkie's suggesting is that he puts Councillor Lorentson in there we can proceed with that or if there's another council wants to be considered um Through the Chair there was um two last year and in previous years so is there another council or Councillor Wilson put a name up is there any other councils who wish to be considered so Councillor Wilkie you happy for that yes to include Councillor Wilson yes and any other council which if this was to proceed any other council wishing to attend would then do it under their discretionary budget are we clear on that one yep okay do we have a second for the motion Councillor Finzel Wilkie we should talk to the motion Frank Wilkie 01:38:48.791
Look I um this is um this represents a considerable body of work by Councillor Lorentson I have to admire the work that's going into it and the passion for which she's pursued over many years now several years now some of these issues as Councillor Lorentson said it ALGA that decides which ones make it to the floor for debate but I've also nominated Councillor Lorentson because to attend she's put in the work and it would be the best advocate on the floor to deliver those motions should have the best knowledge of those motions and the background to those motions I also think it's a very good idea for other councils attend I don't believe Councillor Wilson has attended before very good experience and um but should there be any change to the number of councillors or the councillors that wish to attend between now and Thursday we can have that discussion say but um. Well done Councillor Lorentson and I wish you all the best in canada SPEAKER_04_b 01:40:03.381
Thank you anyone Brian Stockwell 01:40:04.761
Else we should talk to the motion you're cancer you're happy not to close council will be I'll put the motion those in favour that's unanimous and we move then to item 5 which is a major event funding proposals and while the relevant staff come to the table just remind the council that the attachment to this report is confidential we wish to discuss matters relating to that we will need to go into closed session. Frank Wilkie 01:40:39.644
Can we just clarify why those amounts are confidential Mr Chair, because they could be amended? Brian Stockwell 01:40:47.264
Yes. Reason they're put in confidential is that it's because at this stage they're commercial in confidence and we've made prejudice putting that information out before the motion is agreed to. My understanding is once the decision is made at the Ordinary Meeting then those amounts then become public. Is that correct? That's correct. Have we got the manager of economic development who's going to give the overview or we must have an Acting Director that we can ask SPEAKER_07 01:41:21.243
Thank you, councillors, Through the Chair. This report presents the recommended Major Event Sponsorship Funding allocations for events to be delivered during the 2026-27 financial year as the event portfolio transitions from tourism. Noosa to Noosa Council. From the 1st of July this year, 2026, Noosa Council will assume responsibility for funding major tourism events following extensive community consultation through the Destination Management Plan process and subsequent engagement. With event rights holders. This transition represents a significant shift towards a community-led, values-aligned approach to events in Noosa. The DMP feedback highlighted a strong for council to provide clearer oversight of events, ensure better alignment with community outcomes, sorry, community expectations, reduce negative impacts and strengthen sustainability and accessibility outcomes. Transitioning event funding to council supports this direction by enabling improved governance, strategic alignment and consistent decision making across the organisation. It is also a direction supported by the events industry. A 12-month transition period is required to allow existing contractual obligations by Tourism Noosa to conclude. This period also provides council with the necessary time to establish the internal processes, assessment tools, relationship structures and policies. Framework to effectively manage major event investment as a component of the Noosa Council Sustainable Events Strategy which is currently under development and will direct future funding decisions. July 2026 onwards it is anticipated that funding decisions will prioritise events that deliver tangible community benefits, demonstrate strong environmental responsibility, enhance accessibility and minimise impacts on residents and contribute to a more balanced distribution of activity across the Shire. While still recognising the importance of economic and visitation outcomes. The events have long played an important role in Noosa culture, economy and community. In response to community feedback received during the development of the DMP, council is creating a new Sustainable Events Strategy and accompanying guidelines. These documents will shape NUSA's future events portfolio including tourism, community and arts and culture events, ensuring alignment with the principles and objectives of the DMP. The strategy will also guide future event funding and sponsorship, provide clarity certainty for event organisers and be directly informed by community feedback gathered throughout council notes the following recommendations. And also an amendment to recommendation A. As the report was delayed, we didn't take it to the S &E, Services & Organisation Committee, it came straight to general. So we ask that council approve the Major Event Sponsorship Funding for a transition year being 2026 to 2027 as outlined in confidential attachment one. Major event funding recommendations. Confidential IAW with S254D3 of the LG Reg 2012. Subject to sufficient funds totalling 230,000 being allocated in the adopted 2026-27 council budget and note that the new Sustainable Events Strategy policy and assessment criteria under development and will guide future processes Brian Stockwell 01:45:46.540
Thank you do we have any questions Jessica Phillips 01:45:50.440
Thank you um just in relation to the resources that are sort of holding now it says responsibilities it's with us use features and there's a bit that, but a way you know someone with this portfolio or is it still with tourism Noosa SPEAKER_07 01:46:05.986
It's actually in a transition so it's sitting within the Dev team but we're working on it together so the reason we've the taken funding over first is so that the contract contracts will be seamless for the event organisers but we're using internally the same processes that Tourism Noosa have used as an interim measure for this transition period only until our new event guidelines are all ready to go. Jessica Phillips 01:46:37.440
We subcontracting some work back to Tourism Noosa throughout that partnership? SPEAKER_07_b 01:46:42.960
No, it's a part of the Roadmap, the Tourism Noosa Roadmap. We've been working together, a they've known that this was coming, our primary objective is to make it as seamless as possible for the event directors so that they know that they've still got their 18 months lead time for future planning. SPEAKER_08_b 01:47:05.348
We're using existing resources in the team to actually do the assessment and do the work and develop the strategy. Jessica Phillips 01:47:13.448
One last question. So we're adopting allocated funds before the 2026/2027 budget. Is that a normal process or just this is different because of SPEAKER_07_b 01:47:27.487
It is timing, Councillor. The events need an 18-month lead time to be able to plan and execute their events. So we've brought the funding over, but it's almost coming in to go back out to fund the existing events that we assessed. So we went through a process of assessment. Where we got a panel of experts in events across the organisation and we did do the assessment to make sure that there was no other events sitting there outside of the ones that had previously been assessed. And we did that assessment and came up with events totalling the 230,000. Brian Stockwell 01:48:19.224
Was there Nicola Wilson 01:48:24.944
Consideration given to when selecting which events to fund in trying to make sure that there were event free months in or will that be part of the future strategy? SPEAKER_07_b 01:48:39.605
So Through the Chair, that will be part of the future strategy. This year was all about trying to maintain consistency for the events. As you know, DMP took longer than we had envisaged. That had a bit of a knock-on effect just at the timing when Tourism Noosa, had they still been running events, would have gone out with an expression of interest. To make sure that again the event organisers and directors weren't impacted, we agreed to have almost status quo with the exception that we had an assessment period in case there was any that we weren't aware of. So it's almost been we've kept everything pretty much as it was to allow us to do our event criteria and guidelines. Amelia Lorentson 01:49:33.046
Cllr lomson: and for once the sustainable. Event strategy is adopted. Do we expect the number of events and the level of funding required for the major events to increase, decrease or SPEAKER_07_b 01:49:54.975
Be brought back to councillors as part of a workshop because we could potentially write it in a way that any one of those scenarios could be the outcome. You know if you wanted us to go and pitch for events for example then it would be higher. If you're happy with the status quo then it will be status quo budget. Amelia Lorentson 01:50:21.096
And just my last question in terms of staffing levels. So you mentioned staffing levels at the moment are sufficient to manage this transition period. Looking down the track, do we have an estimate of the internal costs to run and events portfolio once it transitions to council on the 1st of July 2026? SPEAKER_07_b 01:50:53.593
We don't as yet Councillor, sorry Through the Chair. What we can do is come back to you with those broken down. Dead. It depends on the level that we want to take the events portfolio moving forward. And same answer as previously, depending on that we could require an extra resource. Or if we don't we may be able to manage it internally on the existing resource that we have given that the DMP now is across the line we have more capacity because some of those actions will be delivered by other parts of the organisation and we become the keeper of the strategy and making sure we stick to timelines so there may be that additional capacity. Amelia Lorentson 01:51:43.966
So in terms of a 230,000 that was transferred from Tourism Noosa and my understanding that was the cost that was calculated or council taken on its major event funding how is that amount ascertained how did you guys work out that cost SPEAKER_07_b 01:52:07.627
So we worked with Tourism Noosa to look at what their existing portfolio was and how much it would cost we also looked at an additional resource but that didn't come across we just worked on what it would take to fund this portfolio and it was a similar portfolio for a number of years so again we've kept it very status quo for this financial year and we have had many discussions with the event directors that just because this financial year it's a certain level that they may expect change when we have our new criteria. So it was a like-for-like does that make sense Councillor Amelia Lorentson 01:52:52.094
Yeah it does I'm just concerned that if Brian Stockwell 01:52:55.374
We are commenting now I think the CEO had something to add SPEAKER_04_b 01:52:59.134
I just wanted to probably that for the 26-27 budget which is what this money is used to be used for the major events remember it's just major events we have hundreds of minor events that we manage and deal with in a separate department within our organisation sitting with property um so across the whole gamut. So my decision understanding is that we've got we've got resource to deal with the 26 27 so there's 230 to manage that portfolio of major events we can we can cater for that internally with what with the resources that we have going forward depending on what the what the um the stable of events are how they're you know how big small or however we want to manage it then we would have to then look at what resources are required to do that and whether we consolidate our resources within the organisation that's a that's the discussion that's is being had currently because we have a number of resources in the smaller event grants and in the larger ones is how we manage that so it's a transition period but I think currently over this next 12 months or 26 27 we've got the resources to manage this Nicola Wilson 01:54:16.969
Um just want to clarify please the use of state SPEAKER_07_b 01:55:05.139
But what those that we eventually did fund the funding was status quo so we didn't go over the two hundred and thirty thousand, it may have been apportioned. Slightly differently. Frank Wilkie 01:55:21.239
Part of the streamline process can you, did you have regard for which recipients were already receiving grants from council in terms of like a signature event or a three year alliance grant? Yes. Did that play into the final allocation? SPEAKER_07_b 01:55:38.939
Andrew, do you want to come up and just. Talk as having sat on the assessment panel? Andrew 01:55:46.280
Thank you. Through the Chair, absolutely it did, yes. What we will be doing going forward until we get an endorsed and adopted strategy to which we really set the plan for that, which will negate the what we call double dipping. What we have is we're taking into consideration that some events within the existing portfolio got major event funding and some of them got signature community funding. And so what we did is we tried to take out a portion of the major event funding and slowly what we might call a drip feed or slowly reduce the reliance on the double funding pool. And so some of that funding we were able to allocate into other events that we thought were meeting all the DMP criteria. So they could get a little bit more of their funding. And we tried to slightly reduce some of the allocation of those events that are getting funded from two sources within council. Noting that once we get an adopted strategy and with more communication and as well as collaboration with those events, we reduce will that completely. The double funding. Thank you. Brian Stockwell 01:56:57.727
And I wish to move the motion. Councillor Lorentson. Lorgenton? Senator? Councillor Phillips, Councillor Lorentson, Councillor Phillips. Amelia Lorentson 01:57:06.647
Just thank you to the EC development team for the work that's gone into this. I think it's clear and I think is the aim is that we are going to be moving. Well, to a more community-led and values-aligned approach to events, which is exactly what came through our Destination Management Plan. I'm supportive of supportive the direction and appreciate the transparency in this transition process. Again, my only concern, and that sort of centres around the questions that I ask, is that we just make sure true internal of bringing this portfolio in-house, given the 230,000 shift from Tourism Noosa, which I understand actually doesn't cover staffing. I mean, that's just the allocation of funds. So as we build the new strategy and systems, again, it's important that we're properly resourced and that our governance processes stay strong. Overall, really positive step and appreciate the work that's behind this. So thank you. Frank Wilkie 01:58:16.150
Just a clarifying question Councillor Lorentson and Rose is a good point. If you reduce the tourism loose funding from 2.5 to 2,230 is the amount given to the events. Is it is the rest of the 500,000 given up to a resource to assist? SPEAKER_07_b 01:58:41.895
No it hasn't come across to us it may well be sitting I know we've got in our budget they do not touch scenario so yeah it's sitting there but the rest the 230 was the one that came across to us I'm sorry I'll need to take that when you're saying us you're talking about your particular team economic development sorry you didn't receive Brian Stockwell 01:59:08.999
Any additional stuff. Funds we're just working you harder which is good to see SPEAKER_04_b 01:59:14.836
The other the other the other allocation has come back into our budget so it's not allocated for this 2027 year so the total amount allocated to tourism and events is less than it was last year. So that 270 though is not the 230 from the 500 that came across. Is that being used to fund a resource? Doesn't sorry, Amelia Lorentson 01:59:43.065
Through the Chair, can you just clarify the amount of funding that we, that council has allocated to Tourism Noosa. My understanding it's about 2.1, not 2 million as the Mayor has indicated. Can you. 2 million. 2? Brian Stockwell 02:00:03.710
Okay. So, we're debating a motion. We've had Councillor Lorentson talk to us. Anyone wish to talk to the motion? Karen Finzel 02:00:14.795
No? Yep, I want to talk to it. Yep. Thank you to the staff for the report. We need? I'm satisfied that we're taking steps to become more efficient in this process, and wish everybody all the best in those outcomes. But personally, I won't be supporting it because I do not feel comfortable with the strategy coming after we've allocated funding. I think we had enough time. This has been raised for such a long period, and I know the report addresses that, but for me personally, I have concerns around this process that I don't feel comfortable with. I'd rather have policies and strategies in place to inform allocation and decision making prior to that, but this is where we find ourselves, and I'm glad that. There's process and movement to try and address the issues moving forward around destination management to ensure our community and our environment are looked after, but yeah, I'm not comfortable with that. Process as a question. Amelia Lorentson 02:01:36.996
To start Through the Chair? Sure. In terms of delaying the process for the Sustainable Events Strategy policy to be developed, what risk does that pose to await. Are waiting for a response in terms of funding? SPEAKER_07_b 02:01:57.231
I am going to defer. Andrew has been quite heavily involved in those discussions. Already there's a little bit of stress, but I will. SPEAKER_04_b 02:02:06.271
Absolutely, it would pose, for some of the smaller events, a very big risk. They need sort their own budget and work for their own budget, particularly because, you know, the expressions of interest came out in November, and they were notified early this year for that, and these are for events that will start from July the 1st. So if we can delay that funny announcement much longer, Amelia Lorentson 02:02:32.537
Those earlier in the financial year events would not have an idea or they would have certainty around their events. Thank you, and would there be a risk that some of the events may not. I suppose, no, I'll withdraw that question. That's asking opinion. Brian Stockwell 02:02:48.278
Thank okay. Can I ask you to speak, Councillor Wilkie? Frank Wilkie 02:02:53.938
Yeah, look, I support the change to the major event funding. As said, this is a significant change from having Tourism Noosa assess funding for these events, the intention bringing these events in back into council is to streamline the assessment process. As mentioned, some are already also receiving signature event grants, alliance grants, and there will be more work done after this year, which is a holding pattern for these events. With all councillors and stakeholders to come up with policy, sustainable events. Strategy, policy and assessment criteria, which will be a new way forward. But I commend the staff for the work they've done in managing this change. I support the recommendations. Jessica Phillips 02:03:54.109
I'll just speak to it. I think my understanding, to get to this point, has been prior to this, the organiser had the organiser to go through some parts of council for, say, a permit for the road or different. It was a bit clunky because they'd go through council for some things and then through Tourism Noosa for others. So I was always supportive of this step. I probably. Just want to make sure that Councillor finzel's concerns are raised as well, because I certainly am one to feel that strategy and policy should come first. So I don't want to get in the habit of this, but I also appreciate why it's come this way this time. I don't want to see delays, but I'm really interested to see in like the community consultation for what they want to see with events leading into the future before we make any sort of further decisions around resources or funding, but I understand that this is a year to keep things moving along. So yeah, I'll support it, but with the proviso that we start getting in the habit of making sure that strategy and policy is always what guides us and this would sit under it. Comfortably, so that's all Nicola Wilson 02:05:19.928
I have to say. Thank you. Amelia Lorentson 02:05:21.408
Close to the end of this financial so we should be starting to workshop very, very direction from your councillors on what ways you want to go. Oh, just my, just a quick question. In terms of the Destination Management Plan, was ratification of that plan critical to progressing the strategy or could the strategy have done, been done before ratified through council? SPEAKER_07_b 02:06:01.957
From a resource point of view, the DMP took up a lot of internal resource to be able to do this. We tried our best to pull the policies together, but really the DMP, to your point Councillor, the DMP was the big one that impacts on everything else, so yes. Ideally be the way that we do it. So, yes, we put all our resource into getting the DMP across the line so that we could pick up and run, which caused the time lag for the EOIs. SPEAKER_04_b 02:06:43.899
Can I just click through the chat? And also with that extra round of community engagement really is helping us to shape the event strategy. So, you know, the community engagement with the data that came out of the DMP community engagement is really, really important for us to use for this. Brian Stockwell 02:07:02.700
Councillor Phillips? Jessica Phillips 02:07:03.800
Question, there will be, will there be community consultation on the Sustainable Events Strategy there? SPEAKER_07_b 02:07:13.840
At this stage, we hadn't planned for we have consulted with event directors, um, but that will be something that we can bring to you in the future for workshop sessions. Brian Stockwell 02:07:29.016
That's something for councils to decide, if we've got enough information through the DMP process or whether we think we need more. Have this? Did I? Did. Okay. I apparently landed. I was going to add something, but I've spoken. Oh, you have. Lucky the chairman's on the board. You shouldn't have asked me to speak. I think I'm the only one who might not have spoken. It is a small step towards the DMP this year. There is maybe not coming out of the motion and report in front of us. There is the work behind the scenes in terms of tweaking conditions to start reflecting some of the aspirations within the DMP. It is just basically a transition step and we have to really appreciate that while it goes through economic development and the events are one mechanism to support our local economy, a lot of these events are greatly appreciated and high participation rates of locals as well. So having a, while I understand finzel's position, having a gap year would likely have a significant social impact for those people who do really appreciate the events we have in our community and it would ruin my preparation for the hundred year, kilometer run next which I'm yet to start. That's all I've got to say. Councillor Lorentson, would you like to close? Amelia Lorentson 02:09:14.121
Going to just mention, I think it was about four years ago that we did a round table with all the event organisers. And this was something that was actually brought forward by our community. And I'm talking small community events from the Noosa tri to, you know, Noosa alive, and we all sat around a table and it was possibly one of the most proactive exchange of an open and honest. Of feedback. So I'm really excited with the direction that this is taking and I also want to acknowledge that the Destination Management Plan took its toll on staff and resourcing. So I respect this transition period. It's critical getting things right in terms of the Sustainable Events Strategy, but also acknowledges that, you know, we have staff that are working overtime in this space. So, you know, the Roadmap is looking really great. And I know those people that sat around the table four or five years ago are really quite excited. I think this I council needs to be very clear and articulate the importance of events to this community. And the Destination Management Plan, you know, allows, gives us those guiding principles that those events have got to align with. Communities. Demonstrated community benefit and streamlining and cost saving and, you know, when we refer to continuous improvement, that's exactly what, mean. So again, excited that this is actually happening. And I think, you know, if a year means we're going to get it right, then let's do it right. Brian Stockwell 02:11:15.690
Okay. I put the motion. Those in favour? That would be Councillor Wilkie, Phillips, Lorentson, Wilson, Stockwell. And those against? Councillor Finzel. The motion is passed. And that brings us to the end of the meeting. Related Noosa Council Meetings
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