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General Committee Meeting
Monday, 13 April 2026 @ 12:30PM - #950
Meeting Duration: 2 hours and 19 minutes
This Noosa Council meeting contains very poor audio quality. This may have affected the transcription below and is beyond our control.
Tourism Noosa deed not adopted, Funding uncertainty, KPIs and governance debated, Amendment allowing funding review passed, Force majeure clause flagged, Pool and gym contracts awarded.
Key Decisions & Discussions • Brian Stockwell oversaw adoption of a rotating chair schedule for General Committee meetings, confirming Standing Orders section 36.2 covers absences (Item 8.1; 02:12–03:42). • Kim Rawlings presented the Tourism Noosa Funding & Performance Deed 2026–2029: $2m p.a., CPI capped at 3.5% from year 2, three instalments with a performance-based adjustment up to $350k; deed aligns with the Destination Management Plan (DMP) and introduces ranked KPIs and a points system (Item 8.2; 04:53–08:43). • Frank Wilkie confirmed external legal review and procurement input supported structure/compliance; feedback focused on drafting/KPI measurability rather than content (07:33–08:43; Item 8.2). • Nicola Wilson successfully moved Amendment No.1 to clause 4.3 so funding may be reviewed/adjusted if Tourism Noosa (TN) gains a substantial, sustainable alternative source (e.g., a user-pays visitor/bed tax), with proportionality and written agreement (Carried; Item 8.2). • Amelia Lorentson proposed adding a clause for review on “material external shock” to visitor economy; after legal input indicating a force majeure-style clause would be more appropriate, she withdrew to
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Key Decisions & Discussions • Brian Stockwell oversaw adoption of a rotating chair schedule for General Committee meetings, confirming Standing Orders section 36.2 covers absences (Item 8.1; 02:12–03:42). • Kim Rawlings presented the Tourism Noosa Funding & Performance Deed 2026–2029: $2m p.a., CPI capped at 3.5% from year 2, three instalments with a performance-based adjustment up to $350k; deed aligns with the Destination Management Plan (DMP) and introduces ranked KPIs and a points system (Item 8.2; 04:53–08:43). • Frank Wilkie confirmed external legal review and procurement input supported structure/compliance; feedback focused on drafting/KPI measurability rather than content (07:33–08:43; Item 8.2). • Nicola Wilson successfully moved Amendment No.1 to clause 4.3 so funding may be reviewed/adjusted if Tourism Noosa (TN) gains a substantial, sustainable alternative source (e.g., a user-pays visitor/bed tax), with proportionality and written agreement (Carried; Item 8.2). • Amelia Lorentson proposed adding a clause for review on “material external shock” to visitor economy; after legal input indicating a force majeure-style clause would be more appropriate, she withdrew to redraft for Ordinary Meeting (25:59–27:50; Item 8.2). • Brian Stockwell ’s substantive motion to approve the Deed (as amended by clause 4.3) was lost 3–4 (Item 8.2; 54:47–59:31). • Brian Stockwell then moved to defer Item 8.2 to the 16 April Ordinary Meeting; the deferral motion was lost (Item 8.2; 59:31–01:24:32). • Amelia Lorentson moved an interim funding/continuity motion paired with a full review of governance/funding/consultation; it was lost 2–5 (Item 8.2; 01:24:49–01:33:07). • Nicola Wilson secured the Committee Recommendation: Council notes the report and does not adopt the proposed Deed in its current form (Carried 6–1; Item 8.2; 01:34:09–01:42:24). • Council awarded CN26032 Noosa Aquatic Centre 50m pool filtration upgrade to CMP Corp Pty Ltd for $1,210,780.40 (GST excl), with CEO delegated to administer/variations (Item 9.1; 01:57:41–01:59:59). • Council awarded CN25048 Cooroy Gymnasium Upgrade & Extension to Murphy Builders QLD Pty Ltd, Design & Construct, total $3,692,575.40 (GST excl), incl. lump sum, removal of value-management options, and provisional sum; CEO delegated to administer/variations (Item 9.2; 02:15:21–02:18:51). Contentious / Transparency Matters • Amelia Lorentson and Jessica Phillips questioned whether a May 2025 resolution requiring consultation with industry stakeholders and residents before future funding decisions had been met; CEO took on notice (10:57–11:39; Item 8.2). • Jessica Phillips argued KPIs lack SMART outcomes and risk paying $1.65m even if core outcomes underperform; critiqued governance loop measuring “alignment” not “outcomes” (31:37–33:27; Item 8.2). • Brian Stockwell directed withdrawal of an accusation of “stealth,” ruling it an allegation of impropriety; maintained relevance constraints on debate (29:36–29:47; Item 8.2). • Standing Orders s31 dispute: whether a procedural deferral motion could be moved post-vote; Chair ruled no decision existed on the books and allowed it; motion ultimately lost (01:18:07–01:24:32; Item 8.2). • Karen Finzel floated shortening the deed term to one year for certainty in a volatile environment; CEO cautioned it would undermine the three-year certainty resolved in Dec 2025 and be impractical (49:43–54:07; Item 8.2). • Public sentiment from the DMP Community Insights was cited by Jessica Phillips as favouring review/reduction of public tourism marketing spend; others countered the DMP and deed process had robust legal/procurement oversight (30:02–31:18; 45:51–49:40; Item 8.2). Legal / Risk • External/Internal Legal Review confirmed deed structure/compliance and KPI measurability; procurement confirmed alignment with Local Government framework/principles (07:33–08:43; Item 8.2). • Jessica Phillips asserted a bed tax is not currently lawful for QLD local governments under the Local Government Act 2009; Amendment No.1 retained a generic adjustment clause but example remained in minutes wording (18:26–20:36; Item 8.2). • Force majeure concept raised by legal counsel as a better mechanism than bespoke “external shock” wording; to be drafted for potential inclusion at Ordinary (25:59–27:50; Item 8.2). • Confidentiality : Council lawfully closed meetings under Local Government Regulation 2012 s254J(3)(g) to discuss contract negotiations for Items 9.1 and 9.2, reopening to decide and disclose awards (9.1, 9.2 minutes; 01:43:23–01:59:59; 02:00:15–02:15:21). • Procurement Delegations : Both contract awards delegated administration/variations to CEO, preserving commercial agility while decisions were made in open session (Items 9.1, 9.2). • Funding Certainty Risk : Loss of the deed in current form creates interim uncertainty for TN services; attempts to defer or adopt interim funding failed at Committee, leaving resolution for the Ordinary Meeting (59:31–01:35:52; Item 8.2). Conflicts of Interest • Jessica Phillips declared a prescribed conflict for CN25048 (Cooroy Gymnasium) due to her paid role with Cooroy Gymnastics Club; she left for debate/vote, consistent with Local Government Act 2009, Ch 5B (02:00:17–02:00:53; Item 9.2). Tourism Noosa Funding Framework & KPIs • Funding mechanics : $2m p.a., CPI cap 3.5% from year 2, three instalments with a mid-year performance adjustment up to $350k per points-ranked KPIs (Item 8.2; 04:53–08:43). • Governance intent : Deed to embed DMP priorities (destination stewardship, sustainability, behaviour change) with clarified roles between Council and TN (Item 8.2; 04:53–07:29). • Critiques : Councillors raised that many “KPIs” were activity deliverables lacking numeric outcome targets, risking weak accountability; staff emphasized annual KPI review and legal vetting for measurability (31:37–33:27; 07:33–08:43; Item 8.2). • Revenue adjustment : Clause 4.3 now permits proportionate funding adjustment if TN secures substantial sustainable alternative funding, with written agreement (Amendment No.1 Carried; Item 8.2). • Term/certainty tension : Push to shorten to one year for flexibility rejected at this stage due to prior three-year intent and operational certainty requirements (49:43–54:07; Item 8.2).
Official Meeting MinutesRead minutes ↗
MINUTES
General Committee Meeting
Monday, 13 April 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 13 APRIL 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 Tom Wegener Cr Frank Wilkie Cr Nicola Wilson
EXECUTIVE Chief Executive Officer Larry Sengstock Director Community Services Kerri Contini Acting Director Corporate Services Margaret Gatt Director Strategy and Environment Kim Rawlings Director Infrastructure Services Shaun Walsh Acting Director Development & Regulation Patrick Murphy
APOLOGIES Nil.
4 CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES
4.1 GENERAL COMMITTEE MEETING DATED 16 MARCH 2026 Committee Resolution Moved: Cr Frank Wilkie Seconded: Cr Karen Finzel That the Minutes of the General Committee Meeting held on 16 March 2026 be received and confirmed. Carried. For: Cr Brian Stockwell, Cr Karen Finzel, Cr Amelia Lorentson, Cr Jessica Phillips, Cr Tom Wegener, Cr Frank Wilkie, Cr Nicola Wilson Against: None
5. PRESENTATIONS Nil.
6. DEPUTATIONS Nil. GENERAL COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES 13 APRIL 2026
7 ITEMS REFERRED FROM COMMITTEES Nil.
8 REPORTS DIRECT TO GENERAL COMMITTEE
8.1 GENERAL COMMITTEE MEETING - SCHEDULE OF CHAIRPERSON Committee Recommendation Moved: Cr Frank Wilkie Seconded: Cr Karen Finzel That Council A. Note the report by the Executive Officer to the General Committee dated 13 April 2026 regarding the General Committee Meeting - Schedule of Chairperson; and B. Adopt the Schedule of Chairperson for the General Committee Meeting as provided in the Report, for the period of 1 May 2026 to 28 February 2028.
Carried. For: Cr Brian Stockwell, Cr Karen Finzel, Cr Amelia Lorentson, Cr Jessica Phillips, Cr Tom Wegener, Cr Frank Wilkie, Cr Nicola Wilson Against: None
8.2 TOURISM NOOSA FUNDING AND PERFORMANCE DEED 2026–2029
Motion Moved: Cr Brian Stockwell Seconded: Cr Tom Wegener That Council: A. Approve the Tourism Noosa Funding and Performance Deed 2026–2029 with Tourism Noosa Ltd for a term of three (3) years, commencing 1 July 2026 and ending 30 June 2029, for funding of $2,000,000 per annum (ex GST), with CPI indexation applied from the second year of the Term, capped at a maximum of 3.5% per annum, subject to the terms and conditions of the Funding Deed as per Attachment 1. B. Note that the funding will be paid in three instalments, with the second instalment subject to a performance-based adjustment of up to $350,000, based on Council’s assessment of KPIs and Target Metrics achievement under the Annual Outcome Report and having regard to the KPI priority rankings and points-based calculation methodology set out in Schedule 2 to the Deed. C. Authorise the Chief Executive Officer to: 1. Finalise and execute the Tourism Noosa Funding and Performance Deed 2026–2029, including any minor or administrative amendments if required following Council decision; and 2. Administer the Funding Deed in accordance with its terms.
Amendment No.1 Moved: Cr Nicola Wilson Seconded: Cr Jessica Phillips That Item A. 1. be added to read: 1. Clause 4.3 be amended as follows:
4.3 The Parties may review and adjust the Funding (whether an increase or decrease) if an external event occurs that results in TN receiving a substantial sustainable alternative source GENERAL COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES 13 APRIL 2026
of funding., regardless of whether such event was anticipated at the commencement of the Term. An example of such an external event includes, without limitation: (a) A User Pays Visitor Tax or equivalent (i.e. a bed tax) is implemented. Any adjustment to the Funding under this clause must be reasonably proportionate to the financial impact of the alternative funding source and must be agreed in writing by the Parties. Carried. For: Cr Brian Stockwell, Cr Karen Finzel, Cr Amelia Lorentson, Cr Jessica Phillips, Cr Tom Wegener, Cr Frank Wilkie, Cr Nicola Wilson Against: None
Amendment No. 2 Moved: Cr Amelia Lorentson Seconded Cr Nicola Wilson That Item A. 2. be added to read: 2. That Clause 4 be amended to include a new provision requiring that the Funding Deed and associated deliverables may be reviewed and adjusted where a material external shock occurs that significantly impacts the visitor economy, including but not limited to sustained increases in fuel costs, significant changes to aviation capacity or routes, natural disasters, or a sustained downturn in tourism demand. Any such review must allow Council and the parties to jointly consider whether funding levels, priorities, KPIs, or delivery expectations require adjustment to ensure the agreement remains realistic, fair, and aligned with prevailing economic, aviation, and market conditions, and continues to deliver value for money and effective outcomes under changed circumstances. Amendment No. 2 was withdrawn by Cr Lorentson with agreeance of the Seconder and full Council.
Motion Moved: Cr Brian Stockwell Seconded: Cr Tom Wegener That Council: A. Approve the Tourism Noosa Funding and Performance Deed 2026–2029 with Tourism Noosa Ltd for a term of three (3) years, commencing 1 July 2026 and ending 30 June 2029, for funding of $2,000,000 per annum (ex GST), with CPI indexation applied from the second year of the Term, capped at a maximum of 3.5% per annum, subject to the terms and conditions of the Funding Deed as per Attachment 1 with the following amendment: 1. Clause 4.3 be amended as follows: 4.3 The Parties may review and adjust the Funding (whether an increase or decrease) if an external event occurs that results in TN receiving a substantial sustainable alternative source of funding., regardless of whether such event was anticipated at the commencement of the Term. An example of such an external event includes, without limitation: (a) A User Pays Visitor Tax or equivalent (i.e. a bed tax) is implemented. Any adjustment to the Funding under this clause must be reasonably proportionate to the financial impact of the alternative funding source and must be agreed in writing by the Parties. B. Note that the funding will be paid in three instalments, with the second instalment subject to a performance-based adjustment of up to $350,000, based on Council’s assessment of KPIs and Target Metrics achievement under the Annual Outcome Report and having GENERAL COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES 13 APRIL 2026
regard to the KPI priority rankings and points-based calculation methodology set out in Schedule 2 to the Deed. C. Authorise the Chief Executive Officer to: 1. Finalise and execute the Tourism Noosa Funding and Performance Deed 2026– 2029, including any minor or administrative amendments if required following Council decision; and 2. Administer the Funding Deed in accordance with its terms.
Lost. For: Cr Brian Stockwell, Cr Tom Wegener, Cr Frank Wilkie Against: Cr Karen Finzel, Cr Amelia Lorentson, Cr Jessica Phillips, Cr Nicola Wilson
The meeting adjourned at 1.32pm The meeting resumed at 1.47pm
Procedural Motion Moved: Cr Brian Stockwell Seconded: Cr Frank Wilkie That General Committee Agenda Item 8.2 be deferred to the Ordinary Meeting dated 16 April 2026 for further consideration. Lost. For: Cr Brian Stockwell, Cr Tom Wegener, Cr Frank Wilkie Cr Karen Finzel, Cr Amelia Lorentson, Cr Jessica Phillips, Cr Nicola Against: Wilson
Motion Moved: Cr Amelia Lorentson Seconded: Cr Jessica Phillips That Council A. Note the report regarding the proposed funding arrangement with Tourism Noosa; B. Does not adopt the proposed Deed in its current form; C. Request that the Chief Executive Officer prepare an interim funding arrangement for Tourism Noosa to ensure continuity of core destination marketing services; and D. Note that the intent of this Resolution is to ensure continuity of tourism promotion services while Council undertakes a full review of governance, funding arrangements and community consultation.
Lost. For: Cr Amelia Lorentson, Cr Jessica Phillips Against: Cr Brian Stockwell, Cr Karen Finzel, Cr Tom Wegener, Cr Frank Wilkie, Cr Nicola Wilson GENERAL COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES 13 APRIL 2026
Committee Recommendation Moved: Cr Nicola Wilson Seconded: Cr Amelia Lorentson That Council: A. Note the report regarding the proposed funding arrangement with Tourism Noosa; B. Does not adopt the proposed Deed in its current form.
Carried. For: Cr Karen Finzel, Cr Amelia Lorentson, Cr Jessica Phillips, Cr Tom Wegener, Cr Frank Wilkie, Cr Nicola Wilson Against: Cr Brian Stockwell
9 CLOSED SESSION
9.1 CONTRACT AWARD - CONTRACT NO. CN26032 - NOOSA AQUATIC CENTRE 50M POOL WATER TREATMENT PLANT FILTRATION UPGRADE WORKS
CLOSURE OF THE MEETING TO THE PUBLIC Committee Resolution Moved: Cr Amelia Lorentson Seconded: Cr Frank Wilkie That the meeting be closed to the public pursuant to section 254J(3)(g) of the Local Government Regulation 2012 for the purpose of discussing a contract proposed to be made by Council and in particular, the potential commercial negotiations in relation to the contracts for Item 9.1. CONTRACT AWARD - CONTRACT NO. CN26032 - NOOSA AQUATIC CENTRE 50M POOL WATER TREATMENT PLANT FILTRATION UPGRADE WORKS. Carried. For: Cr Brian Stockwell, Cr Karen Finzel, Cr Amelia Lorentson, Cr Jessica Phillips, Cr Tom Wegener, Cr Frank Wilkie, Cr Nicola Wilson Against: None
REOPENING OF THE MEETING TO THE PUBLIC Committee Resolution Moved: Cr Nicola Wilson Seconded: Cr Karen Finzel That the meeting be re-opened to the public. Carried. For: Cr Brian Stockwell, Cr Karen Finzel, Cr Amelia Lorentson, Cr Jessica Phillips, Cr Tom Wegener, Cr Frank Wilkie, Cr Nicola Wilson Against: None GENERAL COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES 13 APRIL 2026
Committee Recommendation Moved: Cr Jessica Phillips Seconded: Cr Karen Finzel That Council A. Note the report by the Sport and Active Lifestyles Manager to the General Committee dated 13 April 2026 regarding the outcome of the tender process for Noosa Aquatic Centre 50M Pool Water Treatment Plant Filtration Upgrade Works; B. Award Contract No. CN26032 for Noosa Aquatic Centre 50M Pool Water Treatment Plant Filtration Upgrade Works to CMP Corp Pty Ltd under a lump sum contract for a total contract value of $1,210,780.40 (GST Excl); and C. Delegate to the Chief Executive Officer to negotiate, finalise, execute and do all things necessary to administer and vary the contract on behalf of Council.
Carried. For: Cr Brian Stockwell, Cr Karen Finzel, Cr Amelia Lorentson, Cr Jessica Phillips, Cr Tom Wegener, Cr Frank Wilkie, Cr Nicola Wilson Against: None
9.2 CONTRACT AWARD REPORT – CONTRACT NO. CN25048 – COOROY GYMNASIUM UPGRADE AND EXTENSION
Cr Jessica Phillips "In accordance with Chapter 5B of the Local Government Act 2009 - I inform the meeting that I have a prescribed conflict of interest in relation to Item 9.2 - CONTRACT AWARD REPORT – CONTRACT NO. CN25048 – COOROY GYMNASIUM UPGRADE AND EXTENSION on this agenda because I am working 10 hours per week as the General Manager and Coach of the Cooroy Gymnastics Club. As a result of my conflict of interest, I will now leave the meeting room while the matter is considered and voted on.".
Cr Phillips left the meeting.
CLOSURE OF THE MEETING TO THE PUBLIC Committee Resolution Moved: Cr Karen Finzel Seconded: Cr Tom Wegener That the meeting be closed to the public pursuant to section 254J(3)(g) of the Local Government Regulation 2012 for the purpose of discussing a contract proposed to be made by Council and in particular, the potential commercial negotiations in relation to that contract for Item 9.2. CONTRACT AWARD REPORT – CONTRACT NO. CN25048 – COOROY GYMNASIUM UPGRADE AND EXTENSION. Carried. For: Cr Brian Stockwell, Cr Karen Finzel, Cr Amelia Lorentson, Cr Tom Wegener, Cr Frank Wilkie, Cr Nicola Wilson Against: None Cr Phillips was not present for the vote due to her conflict of interest declaration. GENERAL COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES 13 APRIL 2026
REOPENING OF THE MEETING TO THE PUBLIC Committee Resolution Moved: Cr Nicola Wilson Seconded: Cr Tom Wegener That the meeting be re-opened to the public. Carried. For: Cr Brian Stockwell, Cr Karen Finzel, Cr Amelia Lorentson, Cr Tom Wegener, Cr Frank Wilkie, Cr Nicola Wilson Against: None Cr Phillips was not present for the vote due to her conflict of interest declaration.
Committee Recommendation Moved: Cr Amelia Lorentson Seconded: Cr Karen Finzel That Council A. Note the report by the Project Manager and Graduate Engineer to the General Committee Meeting dated 13 April 2026; B. Award Contract No. CN25048 for Cooroy Gymnasium Upgrade and Extension to Murphy Builders QLD Pty Ltd under a lump sum Design & Construct contract for an estimated total contract value of $3,692,575.40 (GST Excl) as follows: 1. The Lump Sum amount of $3,218,467.73 2. The Provision of additional scope for the removal of Value Management options for an amount of $251,607.67; 3. A Provisional Item sum amount of $222,500.00; and C. Delegate authority to the Chief Executive Officer to negotiate, finalise, execute and do all the things necessary to administer and vary the contract on behalf of Council.
Carried. For: Cr Brian Stockwell, Cr Karen Finzel, Cr Amelia Lorentson, Cr Tom Wegener, Cr Frank Wilkie, Cr Nicola Wilson Against: None Cr Phillips was not present for the vote due to her conflict of interest declaration.
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