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, $1.7m 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 Director Corporate Services Margaret Gatt Director Development & Regulation Richard MacGillivray 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 and Apology Board. 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 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 for use for multiple dwellings, affordable rental premises, and that's at 64 Lake Macdonald Drive, Cooroy. We welcome, welcome to Coast2Bay. And just a reminder councillors, today we're... assessing this application not as the landowner, nor as the setting of the policy. We're here as the assessment manager. So our role is statistically one of assessing compliance against the planning scheme. So, Georgina, would you like to give us an executive summary please? Georgina 01:18.466
Yeah, 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 an affordable rental premises in 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 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. So as 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 future lot one has been created. So essentially means that the road will be constructed, the park lot will be created, the drainage reserve 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, 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 small dwellings, so that means each unit here is less than 100 square It is owned and leased by a registered provider, which in this instance is Coast2Bay, and is managed by a registered community housing provider as a long-term rental housing for a minimum of 20 years. The development has been, for clarity, the development has been described correctly being 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. agreement. The proposed 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. Which required public notification which was 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. In terms 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. Please? So this is an area of variation which refers to the height so we are compliant with the required eight metre building height limit however we do have a three-story component. In terms of in terms of where this is going to be seen on the site this is going to be 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 is in cut it will not be visible um and this takes us to the car parking layout so the planning scheme um 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 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 this has been recommended for approval despite this area 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 so the area of variation on the east relates to roof form no impacts at ground level and this is a setback of 5.6 metres with the remaining of the building setback 5 metres The area to the south of development that you can see is highlighted so that requires a required setback of 6 metres as it adjoins another reserve. is. 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 it will 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 shortfall of private open space accessible from a little living room so 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 this is I suppose a relaxation in this instance again noting 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 The design of the development has been considered in regard to 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 milling industry. 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 it'd be quite difficult to get a traditional Queenslander style roof for a building of this size without while I suppose upholding the integrity of the scheme and maintaining compliance with our eight metre height limit. 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. Thank you very much, first of all. Again, of note, as the site is under the ownership of Council, prior to this application being put in front of us today, the application was reviewed by an external consultant, who agrees with the recommendation of the report for approval. Thank you. Thank you. Brian Stockwell 09:32.986
Do we have any questions? Amelia Lorentson 09:37.535
No? Yes, Councillor Lorentson. Just, I threw some questions to Patrick over the weekend, and Richard, and I just want to just reference just one. terms of cumulative impacts, can you explain, so I think that my questions were sort of dealing with 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 questions sub at this item can only relate to lot one, we're not dealing with the whole sub-division. So if you'd like the question about lot one. It is about lot one. Through the Chair, my question is, did Council consider cumulative impacts of shared infrastructure on the whole sub-division, not just solely on lot one? Patrick Murphy 10:48.872
When the reconfiguration was assessed, the provision of suitable infrastructure was considered at that time, notably the biobasin 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 road new internal road provides the opportunity for any future lots or future development to also achieve suitable access from it. There's also 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. The channel for pedestrians to move into the road and then a safety aisle within the middle of the road for pedestrians to take refuge and connect to other areas within proximity of the site. And may I just add in addition to Patrick's comments, Councillor, that each site 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 additional if infrastructural there's requirements additional relating infrastructural 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 meet the scheme requirements for the development that's being sorted out of the planning scheme. Brian Stockwell 12:52.603
Okay well I'm happy to move the staff recommendation. Yes Councillor is a fairly straightforward application when viewed in the light of the report. The development proposal is a design by one of Noosa 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 report 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 that the assessment and conclusions are considered reasonable, relevant and supportable and accordingly the report provides an appropriate base for council decision and goes on to say the identified identified matters of non-compliance and that's with acceptable solutions are limited in nature and do not result in unacceptable 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 the report and the peer review recommendation does answer those in an appropriate format. Being an impact accessible application, we consider everything from the strategic framework down and I think the report gives us a good basis. say that this particular development is not only consistent with the strategic framework within the planning scheme but Council's higher order housing strategy. I can therefore recommend its approval. Thank you. Nicola Wilson 14:44.660
I will. Thanks for the report and the overview. I'm just going to 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's 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 parts and challenges. 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 and we've seen that there are issues with the size of that block, meaning that some of the setback requirements in the planning scheme can't be met due to 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 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. Brian Stockwell 16:23.180
I will close. The issue of setbacks are ones that have been considered well. The ones to the new internal road are just basically the eaves. It is a site that has got two road 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 is one that maintains as large as the normal setback to the most important frontage which is to the main road. 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 this particular development wouldn't meet the performance outcomes of the scheme. put the motion. Those in favour? That's unanimous. The motion's passed. Thank you. We then move on to section 8 is reports direct to the General Committee and the first item is the financial performance report 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. Zach 17:54.329
So through the Chair I'll take the report as written in front of you which is the financial performance report for January 2026. Brian Stockwell 17:54.925
Thank you Chair. Zach 18:04.886
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 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 in today's general committee will be around budget review two from an operational 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 the 31st of January shows a $3.2 million 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 how we recognise rents. So in the January 2026 report, we have revenue recognition or recognise the January rates levy in its totality. So six months' worth of rates revenue which shows up in our operating surplus. What we will look to actually provide over time is that Council 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 simplistic view...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... either break even or you 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. We will look to We 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 elements of the report. So on the top of page 2 there is a table that outlines at the highest level both the operating revenue and operation expenditure. That reports both aspects actually reporting within 2% of the So our budget and our year today expenses and operating revenue are tracking very closely. budgeted level. The table also illustrates a $2.5 million positive variance today in terms of revenue. Now we historically have had questions as to whether the operating surplus is driven primarily by rates. I would like to address that today. So the $2.5 million of additional 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 related to a slower than anticipated delivery of 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 Notably, the biggest portion of that is $400,000 that relates to waste utility charges, so as to the question as to whether general rates or rates are too high and is driving the surplus, across a $106 million budget for for rates: we are only tracking about a hundred thousand dollars over the budget so it is not a material aspect as to the operating surplus today if that makes sense. In terms of our operating expenditure we currently 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 sound material 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 budget. So 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 of the questions that was taken in the 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. So the other materials and services category is primarily made up of our cost of goods sold, materials which can cover aggregate, landscaping, sand, general, concrete and timber, venue hire and it also includes and it also includes our state government waste levy and waste levy subsidy so it's a bit of a catch-all category in some ways so that that gives you the information for how it's built up. If there is a drive to a further analysis to 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. In regards to capital revenue and expenditure I won't make these significant make any significant comments here, knowing 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 our cash management and investment performance section, just building on what I said earlier, that we have slightly higher cash reserves than we intended at this point in the year, about 18.4% higher than we were tracking in January 2025 today. by slower than expected spend in the capital works program. Primarily... 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. In regards to the In regards to the rate arrears, on page 7 of 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%. received around $400,000 in payments in the January month. Noting that you always hear me paragon around the idea of it being cyclical in nature and that in any January and July period we have a rates revenue. Our January rate arrears do not include the January arrears that are outstanding because technically they are not in arrears until February. So our January... So this is the most valid indication of kind of where our absolute first form of rate policy that we are looking to implement over time and encourage rate payers to bring the rates arrears down and actually actively work with my team downstairs to actually look at how we can deal with the arrears to bring them down. One final comment, noting that there is 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, happy to take any questions. Brian Stockwell 25:58.334
Thank you. we have any questions? Councillor Wilkie. Thank you, Zach. Frank Wilkie 26:07.047
Forgive me if you've covered it in the report and you may have referred to it under the work in progress section. I just have a question about... Thank 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? Zach 26:46.495
Through the Chair, to provide you the exact detail, I probably need to take that question on notice. There's probably a couple of different factors that would make that up. One of those can be valuation that factors into that, but into the specific difference you're happy, I'll take that on notice. I can get back to what makes that up. Brian Stockwell 27:03.210
The question is to Councillor Lorentson. Amelia Lorentson 27:05.390
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 27:23.117
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 to in our monthly finance report and our BR2 document, our BR2 report further on in the agenda. It has been subject to the Queensland Audit Office review through our financial statements and we received statements and we received an unqualified and unmodified audit opinion. It does stand out in our materials and services part of our financial statements as a fraud related loss and it also is mentioned in our annual report. Amelia Lorentson 28:00.637
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 28:10.297
Thank you for that question. Immediately, that we were aware of the fraud, a number of processes, procedures and other operating aspects were put into place. As you would would be aware and as 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 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 time frame for complete implementation of that is due in the middle of March but we're on track to achieve that time frame. you very much. Thank Councillor. Brian Stockwell 29:06.120
Hi, thanks. Jessica Phillips 29:07.140
Just a couple of questions in relation to the corporate services department. Is there any gaps in resources or are we at full capacity? Margaret Gatt 29:24.040
Thank you, Councillor. So there's four areas in corporate services. I'm assuming, or can I clarify with you that you're referring to financial, finance? Okay. So in finance, financial services, we have full complement of staff except for one. And we've got got interim stopgaps 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. Jessica Phillips 29:56.043
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? Would be handy to know. Margaret Gatt 30:28.760
Thank you, Councillor. We'll ensure we take that up for our next monthly finance report. Thank you. Councillor Wilson. Thank you. Nicola Wilson 30:37.431
I'm just looking at the balance sheet. I just noticed, sorry, so I haven't raised it. Some of the balances are the same. January 26th as they were at June 25th. So looking at the non-current liabilities, nothing's moved there. Is that, is that normal? Zach 30:53.979
So through the chair, the financial, the statement of financial position is probably one of the allies in terms of our monthly reporting. That it's a periodic statement as opposed to being a monthly statement. So some 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 that will be the balance as at the 30th of June and when we look to compile the financial statements at the end of year it will be updated. So it's a nature of the report not being a live report if that makes It's only kind of done concurrently throughout the year. Amelia Lorentson 31:34.663
Councillor Lorentson. A 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? Zach 32:01.360
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 to answer that question. Larry Sengstock 32:20.902
Okay so if we're happy we can deal with that in BRT. Jessica Phillips 32:25.026
I probably just have one follow-up question if that's right 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 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 straight as possible. You know, to me, there's only going to be more and more ongoing tree works. Can you tell me if there's ever revision? 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 33:10.601
So, currently, yes, we are reviewing that and we've got plans to bring more internal staff to deal with that because we recognise that even the weather we've had over the weekend, even though we didn't have a huge amount of rain, it still creates more work for our existing workforce as well. So we're looking at better ways to deal with that and we are reviewing and putting up proposals for additional staff to help us to cope with that. The issue we've got with external workforce as well, contractors, is that everybody's using them. When this happens it's not just us that calls on their services. Jessica Phillips 33:50.365
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 34:02.178
Not going to allow that because that's not related to the performance report. It's okay, I'm happy with that. Happy to. Frank Wilkie 34:10.498
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? Zach 34:25.229
Just through the chip, I could ask for some context as to where... One of the threats to Council's finances and functions is a natural disaster and we resolved... think back in 2014, to put money set aside in the disaster management reserve, which you refer to under risks and opportunities. I'm just wondering, what is that amount? It could be a be a question or notice. It used to be... Margaret Gatt 34:57.623
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..5 million. 3.5. Yes. It hasn't increased. Thank you. Okay. Would anyone like to move the motion? Brian Stockwell 35:15.836
I have to move. Jessica Phillips 35:17.351
Moved, Councillor Phillips. Second, Councillor Lorentson. Brian Stockwell 35:19.625
You've got the floor, Councillor Phillips. I'm just going to... Jessica Phillips 35:23.367
Be very brief on the continued improvement of the reporting. Thank you. That makes it very clear for the everyday person. So thank you to the team for that. And I just want to also make note around note around the rate arrears reduction and give that some credit where it's due and hope that that continues to see people paying off fund rates and debt so that's a really positive thing for council and yeah I probably moving for me it's 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 someone that missed a month or two, it's really hard to sort of 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 Brian Stockwell 36:34.132
I'd like to 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 impact of the reclassification of the works in progress projects are then 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 37:07.840
Others? Councillor Lorentson. Hey Zach and Mark, 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 in 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, it makes our jobs so much easier. Frank Wilkie 37:48.272
I'd just like to echo those sentiments. The better the understanding of the scheme, the better the confidence the community can have in the reporting as well. thank you. Brian Stockwell 38:05.000
Would you like to close Councillor? 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, Zach? Zach 38:21.768
I just have to take your thinking through the chair. So I'll take the report as read. I'm reminded 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 there is material differences or needs to reflect its position as at the 30th of June 2026. Budget review 2 provides us with a chance to incorporate any new or emerging actions any additional grants or subsidies and also any and also any other movements during the year that weren't under sort of forecast at Budget Review 1. Noting that Budget Review 1 was adopted at Council's ordinary meeting and on the 24th, 21st sorry of August 2020. At a conceptual overall level BR2 seeks to modify Council's operating result from a 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 this still projects 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. The 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 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 project reviews as council, the key criteria that need to be met in amending the budget include our liminal our alignment with our own financial sustainability policy. The requirement for eligible operating and capital projects to be delivery ready, sorry, with a commitment to complete by the 30th of June. Capital submissions 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 within Board to Council itself. I would like to just attention to a couple of aspects to the report specifically. Page two of the report provides a table summary of this like a review position and proposed amendments for budget review two and the initial position of the budget itself. Page three outlines additional operating grants it's important to understand where council has received an operating grant likely there is expenditure attached to that so they are to 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 six 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 three also includes re-profiling of the capital works project today with attachment seven providing the full breakdown of our capital works program in its totality. This conveys re-profiling from a $94 million to $79 million overall program with no adjustment to the QRA program itself. primary drivers between the change in the re-profiling itself is the Tewantin Doonella Bridge renewal which has carried four 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 design. There is also notably a $1.8 million reduction to the Noosa Aquatic Centre, the 50-metre, 25-metre 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-item 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 sustainability ratio comes back with an orange line on it, saying that it is below the% threshold. This is simply a timing difference, as is to reprofiling 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 the 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 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 assets on hand, which is our cash that we hold primarily, is actually greater than our liability. So there's a negative ratio, a negative percentage, that actually in the case means it's positive that we have greater current assets than our liabilities associated with that. Thank you. We'll be happy to take questions. Amelia Lorentson 44:02.200
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 the loan 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? Zach 44:34.619
So the loan balance there is the share in total cost as it relates to the program, project itself. There are some pluses and minuses as it relates to some other 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 costings around it. So there should be the $6.3 million figure will be the total cost of the project and the loan will be the true cost of everything related to it 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 built into the total cost of the project. Sorry, a bit wordy there, my apologies. Does that make sense? Yeah. Brian Stockwell 45:26.304
Councillor had a hand, I'll go to her next. Did you have a follow up? Jessica Phillips 45:30.644
Sorry. Amelia Lorentson 45:32.144
Thank you, Councillor Jess. No, it's okay, you can can move forward. Jessica Phillips 45:36.347
Can you expand or define what you mean by reprofiling? I don't know if it's just not clear to me. What do you mean by reprofiling amendments? mean as to the delivery of the capital works. Frank Wilkie 45:53.634
So through the chair I can defer to the director of infrastructure services. Jessica Phillips 45:57.554
It's not a Facebook profile so I'm just trying to work it out. Not reprofiling the road either. Thank you for the question councillor. Shaun Walsh 46:08.008
So basically what we do is we look at the ability to deliver. at the ability to deliver the 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 amounts will actually hit our budget, it's become quite clear that we won't get through the $63 million, it's actually our $50 million that we're confident we're spending this year. taking on board Councillor Lorentson's question earlier in 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 You know, I just know million there's 24 million dollars they've actually profiled both in existing expenditure and committed amounts that we've actually got under contract so that represents 50% of the actual 50 million as of December the 30th and that's actually the best result we've had in the last number 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 but also I want to appreciate the 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 47:26.696
So it's the profile of expenditure that changes over different financial years. Thank you. Okay, Councillor Lorentson, do you have another question? I do and thank you, Mark, for meeting with me beforehand. Amelia Lorentson 47:41.197
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 a brief overview of what's driving the $600,000 increase in ICT software maintenance? And the question and the question I really want to ask is are you anticipating this level of increase to continue in future years? Margaret Gatt 48:09.964
Thank You Councillor Lorentson through the chair. As reported to councillors at the BR2 workshop 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 limit of what we do expect. Those, just to clarify, it's not software maintenance, it's actual increases in software contracts. So it's increases that we did not foresee. On reflection, given the, one would call the, I don't know, volatility is the right word, of the world economic markets, so also at a national level and international level, we deal with those headwinds, for want of a better word, and we could We do believe that that will be the upper limit and I'm hoping to report through the end of the financial year that the costs will be less than that. Not a huge amount but I'm hoping to around 450 max is what the extra will be. Thank you. Councillor Wilson. Brian Stockwell 49:39.474
Thank you. Nicola Wilson 49:40.583
Just back to the Capital Works and the Lake Macdonald Drive subdivision. Could you please explain what the unapproved emergent amount of 1.095 million is that's coming into BRT. Zach 49:57.387
So through 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 on that regarding the loan. I had two matters conflated myself. So apologies on that. I'm happy to take that question on notice and provide you a much better response. I've had time to consider it and I will take that on notice and come back to you if that's all right. Thank you very much. My apologies there. In regards to the 1.9, I would have to take that on notice myself, noting that the director and question 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 50:42.079
I'm not really comfortable with that, is it something that we're voting on? Shaun Walsh 50:55.850
Actually established. The interrelationship between the two and the amounts reported to the CWE don't quite reconciliate with the grants amount and the actual project costs. And I think that's reflected in the budget. But I would like further detailed advice, if that's what I understand. Zach 51:20.182
Yes, so through this year, having reflected on the original confidential report that was provided, which we can't talk about in detail, what is approved within PISO is within the constraints of the overall funding packet that was approved, so there was no change to the overall the overall funding that was included in the original approval by Council itself. I believe that this is again to the Director of Infrastructure's point of reconciliation to make sure the actuals reflect the underlying funding as it's attributed, but the amount that's noted with loan, there are some pluses and minuses that need to be worked through in terms of the ultimate funding of that. It's the same material. Yeah, it's the same material. sorry, I'm being cautious just as I know that report that was taken wasn't a confidential system and I can actually begin by asking my apologies on that. Does that answer or lead to answer some of your questions? I think so. I think it does. Nicola Wilson 52:10.783
Right, another couple, please. Sure. In the statement of 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 and non-current. We'll be right Zach 52:39.200
So for the share, again to take it on point of specificity, I have to take it on there's a number of factors that make that up. So I can speak to each of those out of time there. Nicola Wilson 52:47.420
It could be back to the previous question about where the balance sheets are at the moment. And one more is the ratios, which is attachment five. The asset sustainability ratio is 2.23% at the moment. Can we, and then is likely to drop significantly in the following years? Zach 53:12.079
Yes, through the chair, if I didn't convey that early enough in my opening statement. So as a result of BRT, we found the current year ratio is up. What we expect to do once we capture the re-profiling, as we've alluded to, will carry forward balances. go through budget 26-27 proceedings, that 69.7 will come back materially above the threshold. As a result of BRT, we don't actually re-profile the subsequent year. So it's a timing difference of anything. And once your budget proceedings for next year come, that will correct itself. It's a timing issue. Brian Stockwell 53:46.612
A couple of questions around the NAC filtration. Correct me if I'm wrong, I thought it was signed last year as Corrie for winter, but now it's put off for another winter. So can you just say that to me? Margaret Gatt 54:01.772
Councillor, is that okay if I just defer to the Director of Communities to respond to that? Kerri Contini 54:17.420
Thank you, Councillor. 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, it shifts to year, it shifts to next financial year. So the intention is 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. Amelia Lorentson 54:54.078
Just in terms of our sealed roads network, we've had quite a few deputations had quite a few deputations in terms of sealing of gravel roads and I note that the program does list gravel road networks. 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? Maybe a question to the Director. Margaret Gatt 55:24.716
Thank you for that question Councillor. Shaun Walsh 55:26.962
That cover, that part of the cover is the renewal of existing gravel roads and the re-sheeting with gravel to keep them into a reasonable standard. We have now asked councillors, some councillors and community requests to expand the sealed Jessica Phillips 56:01.991
By Council's CW. Margaret Gatt 56:25.058
Of reference, specifically has the CEO able to make on the 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 the Director of Infrastructure referred to that came to last week, Services and Organisation Committee report. Noosa, Shaun Walsh 57:07.527
They're reviewed every time there's a new term and we've always accepted the feedback to ensure that those allegations are made clear. Jessica Phillips 57:16.307
Follow-up question then to the CEO around the terms of reference. So reviewed in the new term, is there any possibility we could bring it mid-term or is that just something that... Larry Sengstock 57:32.100
That's the cycle that we run. To change that cycle I'm having to, as you say, we can bring that to council. You can look at it if you think 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 I think having councillors on the CWE. Again, the CWE, as Sean said, is really about emergent works, so we've got a process to keep the wheels rolling. 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. Clarifying the nexus between the items we've currently got. It's those emergency... approved by Capital Works executives that will be reflected in the budget. And that's the reason for BR2, is to capture those so we can make sure we can afford them, or we can afford them, but they're captured within our financial statements. Because we're also very cognisant of, you know, not just willy-nilly. Approving them, again, any councillors that have been on that committee would back down that as well. I think it's just something where things come along, 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. Thank you. Brian Stockwell 59:16.140
Would someone like to move? I'll move it. I'll second. Thanks for this. We have been well briefed. Larry Sengstock 59:25.760
So who's seconded? I reckon Councillor Wilson was first but I'm looking for... Who's the Chair? Brian Stockwell 59:37.520
Move Councillor Wilson, second Councillor Wilkie, it's all good. I'll let you You'd be much more convincing than me. Nicola Wilson 59:44.269
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. 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 found that really useful. So we've got whether it's grant funding, loan, levy reserves. Other reserves, depreciation, general rates. Okay, so I found that really good to look through and see how much is funded by depreciation. So yeah, just a little note there that I enjoyed that part. I'm happy to support the recommendation. Thanks for your work on this. Brian Stockwell 01:00:32.651
Longton. Amelia Lorentson 01:00:33.105
Just a suggestion, Zach and Marg. Under 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. It would be really great to have the top five risks, and I risks and I know I'm sitting doing a course at the moment and across you know all local governments those risks are from top of mind cyber security, climate change, human resourcing etc but it'd be really great to have just a small chart what is what have we identified as high risk. Thank you. and thank you again for excellent reporting and making our jobs so much easier. Jessica Phillips 01:01:26.042
I'd 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 in the right direction. It's actually really great for the community to see a document like that and because I put the lens of you know just a household budget or the everyday resident I think that was a really great attachment so thank you for that. I guess sort of back 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 month of the term you know one of the things I wrote on the board was build trust with community and gain confidence from them to see what was being decisions in the room and so that's why you know we're going to continue on about the CWE even though I have confidence in the process I think it would be really important that community probably get more insight into So... connects with our budget review because for me that's something that I've been learning so it's really not about each line item for me it's been more around how you put it all together I really want to reiterate that community expects public money to be managed really well and this council has done it for years I've you know lived here my whole life and watched it from a distance but now I'm in the room I really want to see more understand on 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 and 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 getting closer to 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 as to where it's all going, where their money is being spent and how it's being prioritised. Thanks. Brian Stockwell 01:04:27.300
Councillor Wilkie. Yeah, thank you. Just building on what Councillor Jess has said, every term councillors make requests of the corporate finance staff about their reporting, what they would like to see in it, and what we've seen here with the budget review and the monthly financial reporting is the accumulative effect of that over many, 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. That's a really good sign, so thank you. That we probably don't do enough of is 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. Our low level of debt, even though we're spending $79 million million dollars worth of capital works in the revised the you know 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 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 rate prices, so we're now, you know, basically break even in terms of our surplus, you know, less than $100,000 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 spend all our cash reserves on capital works this year, then the pressure on the operating budget next year to have raised rates, because we'll have the increased depreciation, so that link between how much new stuff we build to the increased depreciation is a real balancing act in terms of local government budgets. But overall this review is a worthy one. It isn't one where we've looked at new initiatives, but there may be one of those reviews. reviews before the end of the financial year if we're sailing well. Anyone wish to speak? Councillor Wilson? Do you want to close? I'll put the motion. Those in favour? That's unanimous. Larry Sengstock 01:07:22.281
Thank you. Brian Stockwell 01:07:30.520
So the next item is the operational plan 25/26 quarter 2 quarter report and we have a executive up here, Yanchi Wolf, here to give us an overview. Yanchi Wolf 01:07:44.380
Good afternoon councillors, so this loading report provides a quarter 2 progress update on the delivery of update on the delivery of the 25/26 operational plan. Overall performance remains positive with 77 of the initiatives on track or completed. 16 initiatives experienced a minor disruption and five... 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... 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, has experienced a major delay as well. However, draft plan and scope are anticipated for March 26. Then 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 everyone would remember. It's a great achievement for Noosa. The tourism Noosa roadmap as well. The associated tourism Noosa deed is now scheduled for delivery in March. It's requested by tourism Noosa. We also saw the trial of the community engagement panel, which is fantastic, and initiation of the engagement phase two for the draft Noosa Botanic Garden Master Plan. We also 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. 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 previous 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 target date. And this was likely caused the storm event in late November, which saw a huge increase of requests coming in, obviously for tree removal, vegetation clearing and so forth. As you would be aware, the council crews are still working through the backlog of that work. That is the high-level summary. Any questions? Brian Stockwell 01:10:26.020
Councillor, Mr Chair, you may. Jessica Phillips 01:10:29.980
Just a quick question around the minor 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 know a little bit more about when that will be finished? The initiative number? Yeah. Well, the Strategic Fire Management Plan 2021. Yeah. It delivered planned burns and mechanical fuel reduction when air conditions allow. 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. I would imagine... Yanchi Wolf 01:11:18.877
I'm going to take that question on Noosa and reply it after the meeting, considering that the director has come on the dot. Nicola Wilson 01:11:28.917
On 4.7.1. which is develop the roadmap and investment plan towards zero 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 roadmap, we haven't talked about any future targets and we haven't had any talk about the investment had any talk about the investment plan yet. Jessica Phillips 01:11:51.259
So while it says there'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. I just want to know what's being measured there? Yanchi Wolf 01:12:06.691
Yes, again, 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 obviously go through regular workshops in the matter, and there's progress there on an ongoing basis. And it would obviously then relate to the key milestones of the project. Some of these projects are obviously not just annual, like year projects, there are multi-year projects, and I have to trust that the director against those milestones provides an appropriate assessment of the initiatives, whether it's a minor or major delay, but I'll confirm it. Brian Stockwell 01:12:49.260
Any further questions? Amelia Lorentson 01:12:50.408
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 councils of similar size? And I've just got a few questions around that. Is the staff turnover, the vacancies voluntary, involuntary? Are there emerging themes when people leave the particular departments? Is that information yeah that's that's what I can I so the director get is this something that a future briefing on the workforce plan and things like that might address? Yes, thank you through the chair. Councillor Lorentson, as previously reported we are with our new manager of people and culture. 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, what's also contextually what's relevant contextually 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 and we're hoping to have by the end of this calendar year because it's a it's quite a large body of work that obviously requires consultation in a quite a detailed way with all levels of management and other levels across the organisation. And a very important document. In terms of the key performance measures, when was the last time that was reviewed? Yanchi Wolf 01:14:46.204
The key performance measures were as they are right now, but we are obviously 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 current key performance measures, obviously we also want to look across other organizations 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 to see how can What else do we want you to see here. But once we do a proper review this will obviously also draw two councillors in terms of to see what councillors would like to see here as well. Thank you very much Johnson. Phillips. This one might be for Director Pantini, community services. It is a little taken on notice in relation to another minor disruption around progress of asset management planning for council's community the council's community service buildings, community infrastructure to ensure their ongoing sustainability to meet the functional needs of current and future users. It says building condition assessment reports. But I guess my biggest one is just understanding the risk to council with any community with 28% of comprehensive asset management plans. Kerri Contini 01:16:21.772
Thank Thank you, Councillor. I'm happy to take that question now. So we, 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 including our community facilities, both those under council owned and managed operations and those under community organisations. So this is a piece of work that the work that there wasn't funding available 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 So we've started on the high risk, high value assets, things like the big Noosa library with all its complexities, the aquatic centre, and then that will gradually work its way down through to the 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 01:17:40.965
Probably a follow-up question then, because it did sit with infrastructure, didn't it? So can I maybe understand how the determination that went to community services only because in my mind it's infrastructure, but... 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 the asset management team, took it on board to start to address this ourselves. But, you know, 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-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 condition, and yet we're having..." "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 some of it is done externally the we've had some things We've had 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... thing at the NAC, 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 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 a general maintenance program around to Council Kerri Contini 01:20:57.521
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 be changed so major lighting 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 understanding 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 funding submission through the capital works program. Program. Shaun Walsh 01:21:56.372
Yeah and I think I totally concur with everything Kerry said. Probably what you'll see in the evidence in the 26-27 is a re invigorated asset renewal program for community services buildings, so that figure will increase to reflect real data, because the renewal program is under-invested at the moment, and historically it's from de-amalgamation. 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 community sensitive assets of community buildings. need to change that profile. So in the last six months I've put a briefing note to the executive about a more mature model for asset management in the organisation and we're currently working through those steps and I would be pleased to advise 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 from 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 assets that require additional focus to ensure that we're looking after the betterment of the community. Kerri Contini 01:23:20.420
One of the issues, Councillor, is that when we de-amalgamated we did not get a full and complete list of what our assets were. So, you know, obvious assets, the ones that we operate, were very clear. it's taken a long time and that still isn't clear on exactly the assets that we have in our portfolio. Nicola Wilson 01:23:45.903
Councillor Finzel: Yeah, thank you. That's given us some good eyes on that. When we talk about disrepute with the community, working close with, you know, our community groups, this has affected a lot of them very closely. do guys work, how do you work with properties and managing, like, the arrangements of the lease in terms of those buildings? Because that seems to be where that money and that cost goes back to our community groups that have to apply through that. Can you talk to me a little bit about how property is engaged in this process? Brian Stockwell 01:24:30.965
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. I'm also happy to volunteer a briefing to the councillors in the near future about a revised, revised, more more mature mature approach to asset management and where we're heading towards, so it's the executive in the process, so I'm happy to volunteer. So we are dealing with the operational performance report. we got any other specific questions, or would someone like to move? Councillor Lorentson? Amelia Lorentson 01:25:12.306
Just a thought. I would love, as part of the reporting, to understand when these projects 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... Yeah...and just to give us a little bit more information. Yanchi Wolf 01:26:07.015
For the chair so obviously this um the and report the the reporting system is under constant um development and improvement um so that it's definitely something which is on our radar that we because we we obviously know that there's quite a few initiatives contained within the sport which are multi-year and for us to better represent these uh multi-year projects and how they're tracking over those years and there's also quite a few initiatives contained in this report that are ongoing we don't necessarily will expect ever that disappear unless we decide so pretty much so obviously providing some more visibility in terms of the timeline of those initiatives or the categories i can work on that of course Thank you very much Councillor I'd like to move Councillor Finzel moved and seconded by Councillor Wilkie Councillor Finzel you have the floor Uh, look, I it's really excellent to get this reporting and this update. It's a great bird's eye view and overview of where we're going. It's really good for the community to see how we're tracking and hold us to account. Nicola Wilson 01:27:16.993
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 Sean bringing back that report to 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 Johnsy, it's a good overview and it's encouraging to see how we're incrementally progressing forward to get the best outcomes for our beneficiaries, Thank you. Brian Stockwell 01:27:53.300
Okay, anyone else wish to talk? No? You want to close and argue with yourself Councillor Finzel? No, thanks for the offer. Nicola Wilson 01:28:02.460
I'll put the motion. Those in favour? That's unanimous. Thank you John. We now move on to the item 4 which is proposed motions for submission to ALGA National General Assembly. Are you going to give the overview? Larry Sengstock 01:28:27.355
Well I'm not going to 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. 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. The LGAQ is a body that then takes all those, once they 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 action. associated with those. Councillor Lorentson has provided these six motions, and I think it's probably best to take them as read rather than go through them, but if you want to go through highlighting, them Councillor, one so by that one we can make sure that you've provided a little bit of background on each one. Sure. Amelia Lorentson 01:29:42.227
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 Australian Local 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 supply surprises with what I'm bringing forward. Reducing microplastics in water waste. Motion number two: recycled wastewater for emergency firefighting. Motion Motion number three, emergency medical workforce support. Motion number four, internal cyber security, port controls and information sharing in local government. Motion number five, national youth employment and training pathways in local government. And number six, a national framework 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, our environment 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 for them. 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 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 ocean 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 treatment is essential. This motion pushes for stronger product stewardship so producers, not councils, carry the cost of managing problematic waste like microplastics and textiles. Again, local governments 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 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 fraud resilience program would help us upgrade our systems, strengthen staff training and most importantly share real-time threat intelligence. Again councils especially the small ones can't face cyber threats alone. But another motion in environment that's to improve construction and demolition waste recovery. That one excites me a little bit. Construction waste is a contributor to our landfill boggings and resource loss. A national focus or requirement for source separation, you know, separating construction and demolition waste at 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 youth, the most important people in our, not the most 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 is that we are, as a council, one of the largest employees, especially here in Noosa, but we are a key employer, so councils should almost mandate mandatory youth apprenticeships and internships and it should be proportionate to its population and that just 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 we get 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 In summary, the motions that are put forward reflect the issues that I personally care deeply about and again, issues that matter to this community and to this council. Our environment, our community, 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 to secure local government careers. must keep pushing. Advocacy is how we make noise, how we stay on the national agenda and how we secure the change our Noosa community needs. Brian Stockwell 01:36:52.793
Because the recommendation has a insert names. Frank Wilkie 01:36:55.684
I'm going to move that and it can be amended. Brian Stockwell 01:37:01.313
I wouldn't accept a motion. You can't have approved councillors insert name as a motion. Frank Wilkie 01:37:06.153
No, I'm going to move that, that as written by approved councillors, Councillor Lorentson. Yep. To attend blah blah. Yep. and that's that's it Councillor Lorentson will accept and will attend. Amelia Lorentson 01:37:21.920
I'm happy to accept and attend on the provision that there is no other councillor that wants to go because I have over the last few years I think under mandatory so I think in terms of equity I really would love to throw it at the table if anyone wants to take my spot. Brian Stockwell 01:37:44.050
Question, is it one councillor allowed under mandatory or more? It's normally two. It's actually two. It can just be approved. Just be approved, okay. Amelia Lorentson 01:37:52.830
And it says should they wish to attend so it's just if they decide to attend. Brian Stockwell 01:37:56.010
So what Councillor Wilkie is suggesting is that he puts Councillor Lorentson in there. We can proceed with that or if there's another councillor who wants to be considered. Amelia Lorentson 01:38:08.746
Through the Chair, there was two last year and in previous years. Brian Stockwell 01:38:15.626
So is there another council or Councillor Wilson would put a name up? Is there any other councillors who wish to So Councillor Wilkie, are you happy for that amendment to include Councillor Wilson? Yes. And if any other councillor, if this was to proceed, any other councillor wishing to attend would then do it under their discretionary budget. we clear on that one? Yep. Okay, do we have a second for the motion? Councillor Finzel, Councillor Wilkie, who should talk to the motion? Frank Wilkie 01:38:50.412
Look, this represents a considerable body of work by Councillor Lorentson and I have to admire the work that's gone into the work that's gone into it and the passion with which she's pursued over many years now, several years now, some of these issues. As Councillor Lorentson said, it will be ALGA that decides which ones make it to the floor for debate. But I've also nominated Councillor Lorentson because... to attend because she's put in the work and would be the best advocate on the floor to deliver those motions. She'll have the best knowledge of those motions and the background to those motions. I also think it's a very good idea for other councillors to attend. I don't believe Councillor Wilson has attended before. Very good experience and... 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. But I say well done to Councillor Lorentson and I wish you all the best in Canberra. Thank you. Brian Stockwell 01:40:05.923
Anyone else wish to talk to the motion? You're happy not to close Councillor Wilkie. 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 to remind the council that the attachment to this report is confidential. If we wish to discuss matters relating to that we will need to go into closed session. The Press: Thank you. Is that correct? That's correct. Yeah. Have we got the manager of economic development who's going to give the overview, or we must have an acting director that we could ask hard questions to? Kim Rawlings 01:41:24.309
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 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 desire 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 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 policy 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. From 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. From July 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 Thank you for watching, and I'll see the development of the DMP, Council is creating a new sustainable event strategy and accompanying guidelines. These documents will shape Noosa future events portfolio including tourism, community and arts and Ensuring alignment with the principles and objectives of the DMP the strategy will also guide future event funding and sponsorship, provide clarity and certainty for event organisers and be directly informed by community feedback gathered throughout the DMP process. That's it, that's it, that's it, that's And I would ask that 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 &E services and organisation committee, it came straight to general. So we ask that Council A approve the major event sponsorship funding for a transition year being 2026 to 2027 as outlined...confidential attachment 1, major event funding recommendations. Confidential IAW with S254D3 of the LG regulation 2012. Subject to sufficient funds totalling $230,000 being allocated in the adopted 2026-27 council budget and note that the new sustainable event strategy policy and assessment criteria are under development and will guide future processes. 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 taken the funding over first is so that the contracts will be seamless for the event organisers but we're using internally the same processes that Tourism Noosa have used as an interim for this transition period only until our new event guidelines are all ready to go. Jessica Phillips 01:46:36.617
So are we subcontracting some work back to Tourism Noosa throughout that partnership? Kim Rawlings 01:46:44.511
A part of the roadmap, the Noosa, the Tourism Noosa roadmap. We've been working together. 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 know that they've still got their 18-month lead time for future planning. Nicola Wilson 01:47:05.346
We're using existing resources in the team to actually do the assessment and do the work and develop the strategy. Jessica Phillips 01:47:13.446
One last question. So we're adopting allocated funds before the 2026/2027 budget. Is that a normal process? just this is different because of timing? 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 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. Nicola Wilson 01:48:23.920
Was there any consideration given to when selecting which events to fund in trying to make sure that there were event free months in the original community? Kim Rawlings 01:48:39.197
So through the Chair, that will be part of the future strategy. This year was all about trying to maintain the consistency for the events. As you know, the 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. So to make sure that, again, the event organisers and directors weren't impacted, we agreed to have almost status 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 allow us to do our event criteria and guidelines. Amelia Lorentson 01:49:34.172
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 remain stable? Kim Rawlings 01:49:51.604
That will 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 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 01:50:21.142
And just my last question in terms of staffing levels. So you mentioned that our 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 administer the events portfolio once it transitions to Council on the 1st of July 2026? Kim Rawlings 01:50:53.541
We don't as yet, Councillor. Sorry, through the Chair. What we can do is come back to you with those broken down. Again, 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... 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 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 01:51:43.980
So in terms of the $230,000 that was transferred from tourism Noosa, in my understanding that that was the cost. Calculated or council taken on its major event funding. How was that amount ascertained? How did you guys work out that cost? Kim Rawlings 01:52:07.494
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 a new criteria so it was a like-for-like. So... Does that make sense councillor? Amelia Lorentson 01:52:52.109
Yes, it does. I'm just concerned that if we aren't I think the CEO has something to add. I just wanted to probably clarify that for the 26-27 budget which is what this money is used for for the major events remember it's just major events we have hundreds of minor events that we and manage deal and deal with in a separate department within our organisation sitting with property. So across the whole gamut. So my understanding is that we've got resource to resource to deal with the 26, 27. So this 230 to manage that portfolio of major events, we can cater for that internally with the resources that we have going forward depending on what the stable of events. the stable of The stable of events are how big, small or however we want to manage it and 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 discussion. a discussion that 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... the next 12 months or 26, 27 months we've got the resources to manage this work-life. Nicola Wilson 01:54:19.447
Status quo. Was that in terms of the amount that's being funded or which... Kim Rawlings 01:54:26.264
Yes, so status quo, we originally thought we should just go status quo but because because there is a higher level of scrutiny, because it's moving across the council, and we were concerned about public funding, we went out and did an assessment period to look for an expression of interest, sorry. look for any other events that may be sitting there that justifiably may want to put in an application. So we did have, I think it was 15, Andrew? 15 events that put in. And it was almost double what was asked for. But those that we eventually did fund, the funding was status quo. So we didn't go over the 230,000. It may have been apportioned slightly differently. Frank Wilkie 01:55:19.889
It will be as part of the streamline. the streamlining process, 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 allocations? Kim Rawlings 01:55:38.414
Yes, it did. Andrew, do you want to come up and just talk as having sat on the assessment panel? Andrew 01:55:46.440
Thank you. Through the Chair, absolutely it did, yes. And what we will be doing going forward and until we get an endorsement adopted strategy to 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. Some of them got signature community funding and so what we did is we tried to move, 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 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 funding 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 will reduce that completely, the double funding. Brian Stockwell 01:56:57.300
And I wish to move the motion. Councillor Lorentson, Senator, Councillor, Councillor Lorentson. Just thank you to the EC development team for the work this. Amelia Lorentson 01:57:12.145
I think it's clear and I think the aim is that we are going to be moving 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 the direction and appreciate the transparency in this transition process. Again my only concern and that's sort of centres around the questions that I ask is that we just make sure that we understand the true internal cost of bringing this portfolio in-house given that 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 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 01:58:20.740
Just a clarifying question, Councillor Noosa and Rose is a good point. Would you reduce the Tourism Loose funding from 2.5 to 230 is the amount given to the events. Is the rest of the 500,000 given over to a resource to assist? Kim Rawlings 01:58:41.897
No, it hasn't come across to us. It may well be sitting, I know we've got in our budget, a 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 off. When you're saying us, you're talking about your particular... talking about your particular team, economic development, as you didn't receive any additional staff funds, we're just working you harder, which is good to see. Frank Wilkie 01:59:16.073
The other allocation that has come back into our budget is the time allocated for this 2017 year. So the total amount allocated to tourism and events. So that $270,000 is not the $230,000 from the $500,000 that came across. Is that being used to fund a research? It's not that you started the project, sorry, it's not that you started it. Sorry, through the Chair, can you just clarify the amount of funding that we, that Council has As allocated allocated to Tourism Noosa, my understanding it's about 2.1, not 2 million as the Mayor has indicated, can you? Amelia Lorentson 02:00:02.591
2? Okay. Brian Stockwell 02:00:06.771
So, we're debating a motion. We've had Councillor Lorentson talk to us. Anyone wish to talk to the motion? Nicola Wilson 02:00:22.079
I'm satisfied that we're taking steps to become more efficient in this And wish everybody all the best for those outcomes. But personally I won't be supporting it because I do not feel comfortable with 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. 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 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. yeah, I'm not comfortable with the process. Question to start Amelia Lorentson 02:01:37.949
Through the Chair. In terms of delaying the process for the sustainable events strategy policy to Kim Rawlings 02:01:59.578
Has been quite heavily involved in those discussions. Already there's a little bit of stress, but I will... Absolutely, it would impose for some of the smaller events, a very big risk. They need some certainty of funding, they need to understand their 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 could So if we could delay that funding and the funding announcement much longer, those earlier in the financial year events would not have an idea or they would have certainty around their events. Amelia Lorentson 02:02:40.506
Thank you, and would there be a risk that some of the events may not, I suppose, I'll withdraw that question, that's asking opinion. Brian Stockwell 02:02:52.483
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 in bringing these events in bringing these events 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. There will be more work done with all councillors and stakeholders to come up with policy, sustainable strategy, policy and assessment criteria, which will be a new way forward. But I commend the staff for the work we've done in managing this change. I support the recommendations. I'll just speak to it quickly. I think my understanding, to get to this point, has been prior to this, like Like the the organiser had 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 what... 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 start getting in a habit of making sure that strategy and policy is always what guides us and this would sit under it comfortably, so that's all I have to say, thank you. Amelia Lorentson 02:05:21.443
Question as well actually, when can we expect to see structures in question? Kim Rawlings 02:05:28.903
Before the end of this financial year, so we should be starting to workshop very, very And seeking direction from your councillors on what ways you want to go. Brian Stockwell 02:05:43.911
Just a quick question, in terms of of the destination management plan, was ratification of that plan critical to progressing the strategy, or could the strategy have been done before the destination management plan was ratified through council? Kim Rawlings 02:06:01.984
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, that 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 ELIs. Andrew 02:06:48.301
That extra round of community engagement really is helping us to shape the event strategy. So 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 02:07:02.681
Councillor. Jessica Phillips 02:07:03.773
Question, there will be, will there be community consultation on the sustainable event strategy there? Kim Rawlings 02:07:13.330
At this stage, we hadn't planned for that. We have consulted with event directors, but that will be something that we can bring to you in the future for workshop sessions. Brian Stockwell 02:07:29.164
That's something for councils to decide, is if we think, if we've got enough information through the DMP process or whether we think we need more. Shaun Walsh 02:07:37.584
Have I spoken to this? No. Did I? I did, okay. Apparently I did. Brian Stockwell 02:07:44.850
It was really good, obviously. Jessica Phillips 02:07:46.836
I was going to add something but I've spoken. Oh, you have. Brian Stockwell 02:07:51.602
Lucky the chairman's on the walk. You shouldn't have asked, you should have spoken. I think I'm the only one who might not have spoken. Nicola Wilson 02:08:01.532
I haven't, but I'm Brian Stockwell 02:08:03.518
Okay. it is a 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 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 Council Finzel's position, having a gap year would likely have a significant social impact for those people who do really appreciate events we have in our community and it would ruin my preparation for the 100-kilometre run next year, which I'm yet to start. That's all I've got to Councillor Lorentson, would you like to close? I will. Amelia Lorentson 02:09:13.457
I'm 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 and this was something that was actually brought forward by our community and I'm talking small community things from the Noosa Tri to, you know, Noosa Alive and we all said around the table and it was possibly one of the most proactive exchange of an open and honest exchange of feedback. So I'm really excited. 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 a sustainable event strategy but also acknowledges 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 council needs to be very clear and articulate the importance of this community and the destination management plan you know allows gives us those guiding principles that those events have got to align with demonstrated community benefit and streamlining and cost-saving and you know when we refer to continuous improvement that's exactly what what we 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 02:11:15.850
Okay, I put the motion. Those in favour? That would be Councillor Wilkie, Phillips, Lorentson, Wilson. Stop on. Those against? Councillor Finzel. The motion is passed. Related Noosa Council Meetings
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