Bridge to Opportunity’ - murraybridge.sa.gov.au Report... · Management team, Volunteers and the...

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‘Bridge to Opportunity’

ANNUAL REPORT 2007/2008 ISSN 1835-4521 (print); ISSN 1835-453X (online)

http://www.murraybridge.sa.gov.au/


INTRODUCTION FROM

HIS WORSHIP THE MAYOR – ALLAN ARBON &

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER – DAVID ALTMANN

Council has had an extremely exciting 2007/2008. The snap shot of achievements outlined on page 4 shows the wide ranging scope of services, projects and facilities that we actively provide for our Community. The Rural City of Murray Bridge continues to progress at a rapid rate and is well positioned to become the largest and most vibrant regional centre in South Australia. The Murray Bridge Urban Growth Plan was adopted in 2007 setting in place recommendations on how the infrastructure and land allocation should be based to cater for growth over a 20 year period – that Plan was awarded a Planning Institute of Australia award for Excellence in Town Planning 2007.

Events continue to feature prominently within the Rural City of Murray Bridge and we acknowledge and thank event co-ordinators, volunteers and the community for the host of events – such as assisting in the Pedal Prix, Australia Day, Murray Bridge Auto Fest, Christmas Pageant and Fireworks, Gemboree and Multicultural Event. Building on this tradition, Council on behalf of the Community applied for and has won the right to hold the 2010 Regional Centre of Culture in Murray Bridge. An upgrade to the Town Hall is a possible inclusion to this event.

Infrastructure Management is also at the forefront of our day to day work, with the successful completion of our 2007/2008 works budget with strong headway on key programs including road reconstruction, rural road maintenance, stormwater, footpaths, parks and gardens. Strong progress has been made on Council’s Asset & Infrastructure Plan for the long term maintenance of all its assets – a major task. To assist in keeping rates at a reasonable level, Council has been extremely successful in sourcing major grants, namely: Ferries McDonald Road, Youth Centre; Skate Park; HACC programs, CCTV; Stormwater; Boat Ramps and various others. Other notable achievements include the launching of new services and/or facilities, namely the headspace Youth Centre and Skate Park. The most significant challenge for 2007/2008 centred around the River Murray and the ongoing drought. Council has launched an initiative to assist ‘where it can’ under key headings, including:

Water restrictions Wellington Weir Water Saving Initiatives EC Proposals Assistance to Support Organisations Rating

Council has also completed an Integrated Water Management Plan to identify and recommend various water initiatives revolving around preserving, conserving and reusing water.

Mayor Allan Arbon

David Altmann

Chief Executive Officer



It is important that we also place a focus on our district wide issues, and not only focus on Murray Bridge, the City. With this in mind Council has activated its Outer Towns Program with various meetings held in our rural areas and projects identified. During the year Council resolved to introduce a kerbside and green waste recycling service to assist on our environmental goals and to reduce waste to landfill via recycling. Other major challenges included the Brinkley Waste Landfill site fire in September 2007 and the recent closure of the landfill. We thank Council and the Adelaide Hills Regional Waste Management Authority, EPA, Emergency Service providers for its assistance. Council also commenced a process to review its 2005/2010 Strategic Management Plan and set in place clear business direction for future years ahead. Council has also embarked on a most demanding program with regard to the new South Terrace Retail Precinct (via sale of land to Woolworths Property Group) including the development of a new Community Library, and also the Business Case for major upgrades to the Town Hall. Council also continues to discuss with Minister Conlon the sale of the Railway Precinct for Tourism and Conference development. Finally we are thrilled to have entered into an agreement with the Ngarrindjeri People and the launch of this agreement (including development protocols) at the 2008 Reconciliation Day on 25 May. We personally thank everyone for their support – Elected Members, Staff and dedicated Management team, Volunteers and the Community. Well done to you all for winning the 2008 LGMA Council of the Year Award for Excellence in Regional Local Government.

.

Mayor Arbon, Ros Kruger, Cr Bob England with Certificate and Torch from World Harmony Run visit

16 June 2008

Mayor Arbon & Council Staff attending LGMA Dinner 2008



2007/2008

HIGHLIGHTS & ACHIEVEMENTS ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT & MAJOR PROJECTS

Population increases to 18,194 people

Primary Industries PAR authorised

Murray Bridge Urban Growth Plan and Riverfront Management Strategy – completed and receipient of 2007 Planning Institute of Australia Award

Town Hall Redevelopment Plan

completed and at consultation stage

Major development and planning initiatives

o South Terrace Retail Precinct (contract of sale)

o Prison (at tender stage) o Railway land (at Expression of

Interest stage) o Race course PAR (at lodgement

stage) o New Library (at final design phase

pending South Terrace sale)

SA Water recommended new sewerage treatment plant (pending SA Government Budget)

NEW INITIATIVES

‘Water We Care’ initiative

Integrated Water Plan – project commenced

Vibrant Outer Towns project – excellent community engagement

Community liaison and public information session on water restrictions – to keep sports groups informed

No parking on reserves initiative

RAA after hours service

New Swimming Pool fee and licence structure

Entrant in 2008 LGMA team Challenge for first time – great for office morale and training.

GRANTS

$2.92m Commonwealth Financial Assistance program

$2.1m Ferries McDonald Road – largest road grant – innovative funding cocktail actively promoted by RCMB

$1.42m Murraylands headspace grant including $945,000 to Council as lead agency & $475,000 to the Murray Mallee General Practice Network as a primary partner for youth mental health project

$1.0m Arts SA Regional Centre of Culture

$150k ‘Identif Eyes’ Closed Circuit TV project

$18k for gallery lighting (Country Arts SA)

$20k – Boating Industry for boat ramps



$55k infill HACC grant

$40k grant for Murray Mallee Aged Care

Further $538k stormwater funding from SA Government

$20k NRM funding

$4k Margaret Lawrence Bequest from Australian Business Arts Foundation

$44k Creative Communities Grants for Crime prevention

$30K Grant for Community Care

$20k Nunga Youth Cultural Connection project

MARKETING & MAJOR EVENTS

Development of Marketing Plan and appointment of Marketing Manager

Full page features in the Murray Valley Standard including ‘Water…we care’, Mayors Christmas Message, Budget Consultation and Strategic Management Plan Review

Murray Bridge (via Out of Ordinary initiative with Council) on the National Big Screen at ALGA Congress Darwin.)

Highly successful Autofest and Australia Day 2008.

Pedal Prix – 10 year contract now signed

Bid for 2010 Masters Games and 2010 Regional Centre of Culture

Gemborree success

Excellent media coverage and marketing. GOVERNANCE

Complete and comprehensive Governance review.

Complete and comprehensive Delegations review.

Ongoing success of Elected Member & Staff governance training.

LAUNCHES

Youth Centre

Skate park

Muslim burial site

Gallery lighting

Gallery exhibitions

Sypdus systems at Community Library

Local Government Centre office renovations

AWARDS/RECOGNITION

2008 SA/NT Local Government Managers Association, Regional Council of the Year Award for Leadership and Management.

2007 Customer Service Award for Excellence – Annual Service Quality Network SA

2007 Risk Manager of the Year

Various Kesab awards for Water Conservation, 2007

2007, Planning Institute of Australia, Murray Bridge Urban Growth Management Plan – Commendation

Finalist, 2008 LGA of SA Environment Award

2007, Local Government Work Cover Scheme finalist

‘Excellence in Family Services’ Bunyip Award for the Sturt Reserve Playground

David Allen for a Rotary Club ‘Pride of Workmanship’ award



GENERAL

Promotion of multiculturalism

Mystery Shopping internal surveys of performance – 9/10 as general score card

Swanport Reserve Toilets

Painting of Town Hall

New street lighting and event lighting in Sturt Reserve precinct

Johnstone Park Combined Clubrooms kitchen

Resolution of Monarto Hall management systems

Fibre Optic Cable completed between LGC, Lerwin and Depot

Mypolonga Hall upgrade

Appointment of Proactive Maintenance Officers in the depot and asset departments via internal restructures

Excellent work of outside workforce on infrastructure and road projects

Strong focus on resolving EPA issues at Brinkley landfill and rebuilding relationship with EPA – and resolution of Fire incident

Pilot Council for Asset Management Planning with LGA

Focus on indigenous heritage issues and Land Use Agreement signed

Success of Youth Centre, and YAC initiatives

Lerwin Nursing Home Accreditation

HACC accreditation

FUTURE DIRECTIONS, PROJECTIONS & PREDICTIONS 2008/2009

Council aims to maintain efficient services for the Community and continue to progress towards the longer term objectives for the Rural City of Murray Bridge set out in the Rural City of Murray Bridge Strategic Management Plan 2005/2010. This Plan was adopted by Council at its Council meeting on 26 September, 2005 following extensive community consultation. Specific objectives for the year are proposed which are consistent with Council’s draft Long Term Financial Plan and draft Asset & Infrastructure Management Plan to ensure the long term sustainability of Council’s financial performance and position. Council’s 10 year draft financial plan will be completed by August 2008, upon subsequent completion of its 10 year Asset & Infrastructure Maintenance Plan. The Rural City of Murray Bridge’s Strategic Management Plan 2005/2010 provides the context for Council in delivering outcomes to the community over the coming years. Achieving the Community Vision is an exciting challenge and with the Council and community working together, we have the power to create our future and continue to build a vibrant, healthy, sustainable and enterprising community. In February 2005, following consultation with the public and State Government, feedback received saw the Local Government Association commission an Independent Inquiry into the Financial Sustainability of Local Government. The Inquiry’s independent advisers, using Grants Commission data, rated the Rural City of Murray Bridge in Category 3 – sustainable with a very moderate margin of comfort. Council’s annual business planning process is an opportunity for Council to reassess its position relative to the needs of present and future communities within the Council area. These needs include: maintaining and improving the management of major infrastructure assets; providing community support programs; maintaining and improving open space; improving the community’s access to information; building a strong economy and maintaining our natural resources.



ELECTED MEMBERSHIP – 2006/2010 The Rural City of Murray Bridge elected membership comprises:

1 Mayor

9 Councillors comprising o 3 Councillors each for Brinkley Ward; Mobilong Ward and Monarto Ward

Cr Clem Schubert Cr Theo Weinmann

Cr Jerry Wilson

Cr Bob England

Cr Barry Laubsch

Cr Milton Weinert

Cr Phil Nutt

Cr Keith Simmons

Cr June Phillips

Mayor Allan Arbon

MONARTO

WARD

BRINKLEY

WARD

MOBILONG

WARD



CORE SERVICES

The Rural City of Murray Bridge has remained committed towards implementing its Strategic Management Plan, linking in with its Financial Plan and budget decisions and makes decisions on policy issues relating to the following core services.

SENIOR MANAGEMENT TEAM

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER – David Altmann

Governance Elected Members Human Resources Strategic Planning Economic Development Marketing OHSW & Risk

Corporate & Community Services – Manager - Kym Miller Finance/Rates & Property Information Technology Customer service Asset Management Community & Cultural Development Youth & Indigenous Accessibility Projects Crime Prevention Town Hall & other halls Regional Art Gallery Library Visitor Information Centre Swimming Facilities

Development & Environment Services Manager – Gloria Booker Dog control By law management Public & Environment Health Immunization Planning Building Services Parking Management

Infrastructure & Technical Services Manager – Martin Waddington

Cemeteries Public Conveniences Street cleaning Street lighting Murray Darling Officer Environmental projects Parks & Gardens Sport & Recreation Road construction Road maintenance Stormwater drainage Plant operations Depot operations Engineering Vandalism control STEDs/CWMS Garbage Collection Landfill GIS

Lerwin Manager – Reg Budarick

Lerwin Nursing Home Aged Care/HACC Commonwealth respite care Murray Mallee Aging Taskforce

Information relating to remuneration is contained in Council’s Salary Register



RECOGNISING VALUABLE VOLUNTEER SUPPORT

The Rural City of Murray Bridge acknowledges the immeasurable generosity and selflessness of volunteers who share their time and talent to improve our Community and thank the following

volunteers who have assisted us.

Accessibility Advisory Committee

Captain’s Cottage Museum

CCTV Project Management Group

Community Cultural Development Committee

Crime Prevention & Graffiti Removal

Fraser Park Project Group

Friends of the Library

Home & Community Care

Johnstone Park Combined Clubs Management Committee

Lerwin Nursing Home

Lower Murray Toy Library Committee

Monarto South Memorial Hall Committee

Murray Bridge & District Historical Society

Murray Bridge Round House

Murray Bridge Visitor Information Centre

Mypolonga War Memorial Hall Committee

Neighbourhood Watch – Combined

New Library Interior Design & Fit Out Working Party

Public Library Volunteers

Regional Art Gallery Management Committee

Rocky Gully Wetlands Group

Showgrounds Management Committee

Town Hall Project Management Committee

Work for the Dole

Youth Action Committee

The many volunteers who assist Council in Special Projects and Events



The Rural City of Murray Bridge office is located in the Local Government Centre, 2 Seventh Street,

Murray Bridge, South Australia, 5253.

Telephone number: 85 391100 Fax no: 85 322766 Postal address PO Box 421, Murray Bridge, 5253 Email address: [email protected] Website address: www.murraybridge.sa.gov.au After Hours Emergency Number: 85 391100

COUNCIL BUSINESS LOCATIONS: Works Depot 21 Hindmarsh Road, Murray Bridge, 5253 Telephone: 85 391160 Facsimile: 85 310170 Public Library Level 3 Mobilong House Seventh Street, Murray Bridge, 5253 Telephone: 85 391175 Facsimile: 85 321622 Visitor Information Centre South Terrace, Murray Bridge, 5253 Telephone: 85 391142 Facsimile: 85 325288 Regional Gallery 27 Sixth Street, Murray Bridge, 5253 Telephone: 85 312606 Facsimile: 85 312606 Lerwin Nursing Home 67 Joyce Street, Murray Bridge, 5253 Telephone: 85 391185 Facsimile: 85 311655

Swimming Pool (open between Oct & April) Flavel Terrace, Murray Bridge, 5253 Telephone: 85 322924

Brinkley Recycling & Waste Transfer Station (open Wed & Sun 10am – 4pm) Telephone: 85 326385

Public are able to hire the following facilities from Council by contacting the

Local Government Centre Meeting Rooms Public Library; Town Hall Ovals Homburg; LeMessurier; Johnstone Park; Monarto; Showgrounds Reserves Avoca Dell Reserve: Diamond Park; Edwards Square; Johnstone Park; Pine Park; Riverglen Marina Reserve; Sturt Reserve; Swanport Reserve; Wharf Hill; Woodlane Reserve.

COUNCIL LOCATIONS


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www.murraybridge.sa.gov.au

KEY FACTS

Resident Population 18,194 people Urban 13,184 people Outlying 2,500 people Projected Population Growth Area 1828 sq km (inc part of River Murray & Lake Alexandrina) Trafficable Road Network 975 km (excluding DTEI roads) Height above Sea Level at post office – 22m Townships with Council area Callington; Jervois; Monarto; Monteith; Mypolonga; Wellington; Woods Point General Statistics Number of Elected Members 10 Number of Wards 3 Number of Electors 14,203 Number of Rateable Properties 9,500 Expenditure $23,552,000 Income $22,693,000 Grants Received $555,100 Development Application est value $98,750,948 Employees 236 Volunteer Numbers 177

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COUNCIL ELECTIONS The next ordinary Council election is proposed for November 2010.

COUNCIL MEETINGS Ordinary meetings of Council were held at 7 pm in the Council Chamber, Local Government Centre on the 4th Monday of January, 2nd and 4th Mondays of month from February – November and the 2nd Monday of December. Council also held 2 Council meetings in outlying townships – Jervois & Wellington. All meetings were open to the Public, except on occasions where Council decided to consider a matter in confidence under Section 90(3) of the Local Government Act. Public notices of Council meetings were displayed in the foyer of the Local Government Centre and on Council’s website with an invitation to Members of the Public to attend. Agendas were on display 3 clear days before the meeting and minutes were on display 5 days following the Council meeting. STATEMENT OF COUNCIL REPRESENTATION The number of electors for the Rural City of Murray Bridge for 2007/2008 was 14591, the number of Elected Members was 10, and therefore the quota for the Rural City of Murray Bridge is 1:1459 Similar sized Council quotas for comparison are:

Alexandrina 1:1867

Barossa Council 1:1229

Victor Harbor 1:1339

Yorke Peninsula 1:1216

Statewide Rep 1:1636

Council undertook a periodic review in 2005 and has scheduled to undertake its next review in 2013 as per Division 2 of Section 12 of the Local Government Act. POPULATION

Rural City of Murray Bridge population will nearly double by year 2025 to 30,000.

Murray Bridge will lead the area in job growth over next 2 years.

Increase in tourism is predicted to grow through the strong marketing of the Murraylands Tourism Marketing Plan.

Murraylands has approximately 4.5% of the State’s total population.

Murray Bridge is a regional centre and often a base for travel to other areas. SOCIAL INCLUSION Council is supportive of all members of its community and actively encourages input from all sectors including but not limited to – aged, disadvantaged; female; indigenous; non English speaking background; youth; and residents through various programs.

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MULTI CULTURALISM

The Rural City of Murray Bridge is home to a diverse number of nationalities from all continents. In 2003 Council declared the Rural City of Murray Bridge as a Refugee Welcome Zone and continues to play an integral role with the region’s Multicultural Migration & Settlement Committee. Council continues to provide in-kind support, the use of Council venues for functions and continues to work on current programs and projects relating to Multiculturalism and Migration in the Rural City of Murray Bridge this includes the ‘Pathways to Acceptance’ Shi’a Cemetery’ opened on the 11.11.07 and the ‘Bridge to Opportunity’ Housing Project. The Rural City of Murray Bridge is a major partner in the Murraylands Multicultural Project.

Citizenship Ceremonies 2008/09 42 new citizens 2006/07 29 new citizens 2005/06 24 new citizens 2004/05 14 new citizens 2003/04 6 new citizens

Indigenous Partnerships Council has been proud to work in partnership with a number of organisations to support our valued indigenous community. 2008 marks an important year for reconciliation with the historic signing of the agreement, Kungun Ngarrindjeri Yunnan between the Rural City of Murray Bridge and the Ngarrindjeri traditional owners to acknowledge the past and provide a pathway for the future. The celebrations took place on Sunday 25th May at Edwards Square with food and entertainment organised by local reconciliation group, Ngoppon Together, Indigenous Community Development Officer and the Arts and Cultural Community Development Officer. Other involvement includes:

Lead agency for the “Journey of Sevens” Camps involving 14 Indigenous Youth at risk, facilitated by Baptist Community Services, this was aimed at re-engaging the identified youth into school and community life through mentoring and networking.

Involvement in various other indigenous focussed networks including Aboriginal Youth Workers Network, Police Aboriginal Liaison meeting, Aboriginal Employment Network and other informal meetings.

Sponsored the Ngarrindjeri football and netball teams to attend the State Indigenous Championships and other individual requests as needed.

Together with Murraylands headspace have supported the opening of the new Nunga Wise Youth Shed at the Lower Murray Nungas Club

The 2007 July NAIDOC Week celebrations included the annual Bridge Walk, Flag Raising Ceremony, Morning Tea and in-kind support of the range of other events.

Sponsored local students to attend the annual ‘Croc Fest’ in Pt Augusta where the young people performed well in front of large crowds.

Supported the Aboriginal Health Fair Day to promote healthy lifestyles and access to services for the Aboriginal community.

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ACCESS TO COUNCIL DOCUMENTS

Recognising the importance of clear and transparent decision making and compliance requirements of the Local Government Act 1999, the following documents are available for public inspection at the Local Government Centre, 2 Seventh Street, Murray Bridge without charge. Several documents are also included on our website for access by the public – www.murraybridge.sa.gov.au Annual Business Plan Annual Report Annual Statement Assessment Record Audited Financial Statement Budget Statement Bylaws Code of Conduct – Elected Members &

Employees Contracts & Purchasing Policy Council Agendas and minutes Delegations Manual Development Application Register Development Assessment Panel agenda and

minutes Election Campaign Donation Returns Freedom of Information Statement Internal Control Policy Internal Review Procedure

Order Making Policy Council’s Policy Manual Procedure for Internal Review of Council Decisions Policy Public Consultation Policy Rating Policy Register of Community Land Register of Elected Member Allowances and

Benefits Register of Employees Salaries, Wages &

Benefits Register of Interest Elected Members Register of Interest Senior Management

Team Register of Public Streets and Roads Schedule of Fees and Charges Section 41 Committee agendas and minutes Strategic Management Plan Voters Roll

PUBLIC PARTICIPATING IN COUNCIL’S DECISION MAKING PROCESS

There are a number of ways in which members of the Public can put forward their views on particular issues to Council. They are:

Deputations/Presentations – with the permission of the Mayor, a member of the public is able to address Council on their own behalf or on behalf of a group of residents, refer Policy G15.

Petitions – written petitions can be addressed to the Council on any issue within the Council’s jurisdiction.

Written requests – a member of the public can write to Council on any Council policy, activity or service.

Elected Members – members of the public can contact Elected Members of the Council to discuss any issue relevant to the Council.

Rural City Forums – Council holds 2 Rural City Forums annually as a forum to listen to the Community.

Convening Outer Township Forums in the townships of Burdett, Jervois, Monarto and Mypolonga.

Council convenes two Council meetings annually at an outer township.

Council’s website – www.murraybridge.sa.gov.au also allows for members of the public to provide Council with feedback on any issue.

Via any of Council’s offices – Local Government Centre, Works Depot, Public Library, Regional Gallery, Lerwin Nursing Home and Murraylands headspace Youth Centre.



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COMMUNITY CONSULTATION & ENGAGEMENT Council was awarded the 2008 SA/NT Local Government Managers Association, Regional Council of the Year Award for Leadership and Management for our approach to Community Engagement. Council’s Public Consultation Policy (G:6) clearly identifies Council’s commitment to this valuable process. The objectives of this policy are to ensure Council effectively

Engages and Consults with the Community on Community issues;

Promotes and encourages Community involvement in Council business;

Makes decisions which are open, transparent and responsive to the needs and aspirations of the Community.

Fulfils the legislative requirements as set out in the Public Consultation requirements of the Local Government Act 1999, Development Act and as required in other Acts and Regulations applicable.

The Rural City of Murray Bridge values effective consultation and engagement processes in developing a positive and open relationship with its Community. We strongly believes this process provides the Community with the opportunity to be informed and influence decisions which affect their lives. Council undertook extensive public consultation and engagement in the following areas:

Urban Growth Management Plan & Riverfront Reserves Management Plans o Plans setting out the future growth areas for the township and riverfront areas. o Mail outs, media coverage, and open community consultation days were held. o Final adoption of the plan August 2007.

Justice Precinct o A plan depicting the requirements for the proposal of two new prisons to be located

at Mobilong by the State Government. o Mail outs, media coverage and open community consultation days were held. o Final adoption of plan September 2007.

Dairy Flat o A plan for the future development of dairy flats from Toora to Swanport. o Mail outs, media coverage and open community consultation days were held. o Final adoption of plan August 2007.

Dry Areas o Request for dry area legislation for central business district and Sturt Reserve

areas. o Mail outs, media coverage and open community consultation days were held. o Approval for the dry area was received in March 2007 for 12 months.

Kerbside Recycling o Proposal to implement kerbside recycling in line with EPA requirements and Zero

waste funding. o Mail outs, media coverage and public meetings were held. o Adopted by Council as part of Budget discussions June 2008.

Playgrounds o 10 year plan for development of playgrounds in Council areas. o Mail outs, media coverage and open community consultation days were held. o Council adopted the plan in 2007.

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Outer Townships o Consultation with the outer townships to develop Community Plans o Mypolonga (Mypolonga & Wall Flat Communities); Burdett (Burdett, Ettrick &

Monteith Communities): Jervois (Jervois, Wellington & Brinkley Communities) and Monarto (Monarto & Callington Communities.

o An Outer townships report was adopted in June 2008.

2008-2013 Strategic Management Plan Review o Consultation with Community through mail out and drop in sessions

Town Hall Redevelopment Project o Consultation with Community through mail out and drop in sessions

Outer township meeting Mypolonga

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Confidential Items Considered by Council

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

80

2003/04 2004/05 2005/06 2006/07 2007/08

Confidential

Remaining

CONFIDENTIAL ITEMS - UPDATE The Rural City of Murray Bridge is committed to the principle of open and accountable government. Council also recognizes that on occasions it may be necessary in the broader community interest to restrict public access to discussion and/or documents as provided for under Section 90 of the Local Government Act 1999. A listing of the provisions under Section 90 is attached as appendix 1. Breakdown of Section 90(3) of the Local Government Act categories used during 2007/08

(a) x 14 times

(b) x 6 times

(d) x 15 times

(h) x 4 times

(i) x 8 times

(k) x 1 time

(l) x 1 time

(m) x 5 times Council considered 499 reports during 2007/2008, with 49 reports (10%) being considered in confidence under Section 90 of the Local Government. 7 of those 49 report decisions have since been made public by the Council and those remaining in confidence will continue to be reviewed annually. The Rural City of Murray Bridge promotes the conducting of Council business in a transparent and open environment. At times Council is required to determine information in a confidential environment as allowed for in the Local Government but is mindful of the need to consult and debate openly in a public forum. DELEGATIONS In accordance with Section 44 of the Local Government Act, certain powers, functions and duties have been delegated to the Chief Executive Officer from the Council by resolution. The CEO, as allowed, has in turn delegated some of these powers, functions and duties to Council officers. Such delegations enable the effective and efficient operation of the Council administration. No delegations have been given to Section 41 Committees by the Council. DECISION MAKING, STRUCTURE & FUNCTIONS Council comprises an elected Mayor and 9 Ward Councillors who are the decision making body on all policy issues as described in Chapter 2 of the Local Government Act. As part of its role Council strives to ensure open, responsive and accountable Government. In recognition of this Council has adopted policies relating to Community Consultation and Participation and access of information.

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The Rural City of Murray Bridge recognises the need and participates in discussions outside of its Community through Local Government and State Government bodies to ensure its Community is aware of what is happening on the Local, State and Federal platforms. Council’s Strategic Management Plan emphasizes the importance of providing service to the Community, facilities and programs that are able to be used by all through equitable access and Council resources are used fairly, effectively and efficiently. REVIEW OF COUNCIL DECISIONS As required by the Local Government Act, 1999, Council has developed a procedure for the review of Council decisions policy (G:5), outlining how decisions of Council or other people acting on behalf of the Council are reviewed. The Rural City of Murray Bridge is committed to transparent decision making processes and to providing access to a fair and objective procedure the hearing of review of decisions. No review of Council decisions were formally sought. INFORMATION REQUESTS - FREEDOM OF INFORMATION Forms and a schedule of FOI fees are available from the Local Government Centre Applications will be responded to as soon as possible within the statutory 30 days of Council receiving the properly completed FOI Request Form, together with the application fees. The Freedom of Information Statement is published annually by Council in accordance with the requirements of the Freedom of Information Act 1991. The Statement is included as appendix 2.

Requests received 2007/08 2 2006/07 1 2005/06 1 2004/05 0 2003/04 1 2002/03 0

REPRESENTATION ON EXTERNAL BODIES In recognition of the need to participate in discussions outside of its Community, Council supports and has membership on the following Local Government bodies:

Local Government Association of South Australia (www.lga.sa.gov.au)

Australian Local Government Association (www.alga.asn.au)

Murray & Mallee Local Government Association (www.mmlga.sa.gov.au) – a copy of their annual report is attached as appendix 3 .

Southern & Hills Local Government Association – a copy of their annual report is attached as appendix 4.

Murraylands Regional Development Board (www.murraylands.org.au)

Adelaide Hills Waste Management Authority – a copy of their annual report is attached as appendix 5.

Provincial Cities Association – a copy of their audited financial statements are attached as appendix 6.

http://www.lga.sa.gov.au/

http://www.alga.asn.au/

http://www.murraylands.org.au/

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OTHER REPRESENTATION ON EXTERNAL BODIES INCLUDE

Community Safety Committee

Local Government Finance Authority

Local Government Association – Stormwater Management

Lower Murray Irrigation Action Group

Lower Murray Local Government Working Group

Mannum to Wellington Local Action Plan Committee

Multicultural SA

Murray Bridge & District State Emergency Service

Murray Bridge Basketball Association

Murray Bridge Business & Tourism Inc

Murray Bridge High School Governing Council

Murray Bridge Show Society

Murray Bridge Soldier’s Memorial Hospital

Murray Darling Association

Murray Mallee Aged Care

Murraylands Regional Tourist Association

Murray Watch

SA Recreation Trails

A copy of Council’s Delegate Register is attached as appendix 7.

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SECTION 41 COMMITTEES Council has appointed eight Section 41 Committees to encourage broader representation and involvement to Council affairs and to provide Elected Members recommendations on Community affairs to Council. However the Section 41 Committees have received no delegated power from the Council and perform their duties as an advisory committee to Council.

Accessibility Advisory Committee

Audit Committee

Community Cultural Development Advisory Committee (now known as Community Cultural Development Committee)

Community Grants & Donations Funding Advisory Committee

District Bushfire Prevention Committee

Murray Bridge Regional Gallery Management Committee

Youth Action Committee

Murraylands headspace Community of Youth Services

Zsolt Telkesi Youth Grants Advisory Committee

Murraylands Headspace Community of Youth Services

Accessibility Advisory Committee Provides valuable advice and direction to Council on accessibility and mobility issues and opportunities across the district that affect our disabled residents and visitors. Meets on the 4th Thursday of each month in the Local Government Centre and was open to the public The International Day of People with a disABILITY was held in December 2007 in collaboration with the ‘Mighty River Run’. 2007 Local Disability Awards were won by Rosie Scott for a ‘successful disability friendly program’, Ian Rick for recognition of ‘personal achievement’ and a commendation Award to Roger Nance for ‘excellence in customer service delivery’. The review of the Accessibility Action Plan was also commenced.

Audit Committee A requirement of Local Government Act is to provide valuable advice and direction to Council of financial matters. The Committee is meeting quarterly and providing valuable to advice to Members and Staff on financial matters. Community Cultural Development Committee Has continued to provide advice and direction to Council on cultural affairs and Community development issues and opportunities. It has also assisted Council in a range of Community and cultural events and awareness programs. Meets on the 1st Tuesday of each month in the Local Government Centre and was open to the public. The Advisory Committee was instrumental in:

a review of the Cultural Plan was undertaken including an analysis of the existing culture, cultural assets and cultural aspirations of the community in order to establish a strategic

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framework for an updated cultural plan and cultural policy for the city. The Cultural Plan was adopted by Council on 29th June 2007.

Council being awarded a $10,000 grant from Arts SA to assist with the Town Hall feasibility study (design/concept plans) which is has been out to public consultation.

Community Grants & Donations Funding Advisory Committee For this financial year (2007/08) a total amount of $64,025 in grants were disbursed to community groups. A total of 41 applications were received from various community groups seeking a total of $103,871. District Bushfire Prevention Committee Pursuant to Section 75 of the Fire & Emergency Services Act, Council is required to establish a District Bushfire Prevention Committee. This committee has representatives from the CFS, Elected Members (2) and the Fire Protection Officers of Council. Currently Cr. C Schubert is the Presiding Member. The committee met three times during the year, assessing Fire Prevention Plans for organisations in the district such as the Monarto Zoo, Army Range, Ferris McDonald Conservation Park and various business’ in the town.

Murray Bridge Regional Gallery Management Committee This Committee has assisted Council and the Gallery Director in the day to day running and direction of strategic issues affecting the Regional Gallery. Meets on the 2nd Wednesday of each month at the Regional Gallery and is open to the public.

Youth Action Committee This Advisory Committee comprises of local youth who act as Council’s Youth Advisory Committee. The Committee has been an active partner with Council in addressing youth affairs. Meets on the 2nd Tuesday of each month at the Murraylands headspace Youth Centre and was open to the Public. The Youth Action Committee ran a successful National Youth Week in April with events including the Official Launch of the Murraylands headspace Youth Centre and Skate Park at Sturt Reserve. Both facilities were opened by His Worship Mayor Allan Arbon and attended by dignitaries, elected members and many youth. Other National Youth Week events included a Youth Summit facilitated by United Nations Youth Association, Council vs YAC Sporting Challenge and the major drawcard, Battle of the Bands. This event attracted hundreds of youth from the Murraylands Region and was capably organised by the YAC with the assistance of Youth and Indigenous Officer, Di Gordon and volunteers Paul Ankerson and Mark Bettcher. Through a process of natural attrition, some YAC members have moved on or out of the community. The recent YAC recruitment drive was very successful with 15 young people attending the June meeting – many of whom are interested in burgeoning music / bands programme evolving at the Youth Centre under the leadership of Youth Worker Paul Ankerson.

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With the YAC now firmly based at the Youth Centre many plans are underway for regular Youth Events including discos, games nights, movie nights and monthly bands. The YAC are eager to utilise the facilities and opportunities of the Youth Centre and are most grateful for the ongoing support from Council, particularly Cr Phil Nutt. Zsolt Telkesi Youth Grants Committee This Fund was established in March 1997 with a residual $40,000 in trust to assist youth who are ‘at risk’. Funds are used for educational and employment purposes and/or to provide much needed financial assistance for young people to achieve their full potential in life and in their future. Two young people were assisted in the 2007/08 financial year. Murraylands Headspace Community of Youth Services Murraylands headspace is a collaborative Community response to establish a “Community of Youth Services” in the Murraylands region of South Australia. Located in the Railway Station Refreshment Rooms it provides the ideal central location, proximity to existing services, distance from residential areas, and access to public transport. The “One-Stop-Shop” delivers services in the mental health, social wellbeing and economic participation of young people aged 12-25. A consortium of 20 local providers under the leadership of The Rural City of Murray Bridge have formally committed to the project through the signing of a “Memorandum of Agreement” on 27th August 2007. Murraylands headspace is managed by the Executive Committee, comprising seven of the consortium partners, and meets monthly to make recommendations to the Rural City of Murray Bridge, who as lead agency have ultimate responsibility for the funding and the project. Specialist sub committees sit below the Executive Committee to assist with delivery of and include:

Clinical Network which is facilitated by the Murray Mallee General Practice Network and whose membership includes the clinical partners and stakeholders

Youth Reference Committee which includes Members of Youth Action Committee (YAC) and is presently recruiting others from community cohorts.

Social Recovery Network which is made up of community based partners that specialise in various components that will assist youth in social recovery.

The Operational headspace Team (HOT) meets weekly to implement strategies for continual collaboration and strengthening of the partnership between the Youth and Indigenous Program and headspace, and to address day-to-day running of the Centre. The Murray Mallee General Practice Network has funded a Senior Youth Worker through the Department of Health & Aging under the ‘Youth Mental Health Initiative Funding for Allied Health Workers’ and advertised a Youth Worker position to engage and support youth through the various pathways. Murraylands headspace was launched on 6th April 2008 and a Business Plan ratified by Council was implemented by end of June 2008. By early June headspace was providing on site clinical, recreational, social and vocational services for young people. The Community Awareness program was extended and included information sessions and workshops at Murraylands’ schools, Youth Provider networks, and a presence at regional youth events. In excess of 3,500 young people have been contacted through this program. The following services are presently being offered on site: General Practitioners, Child Psychologist, Psychiatrist (individual and group sessions) and Drug and Alcohol counselling;

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ALLOWANCES Elected Members The allowances set by Council in accordance with Section 76 of the Local Government Act 1999 are as follows:

From 1/6/06 Reconfirmed Nov 06 Nov 07

Mayor $26,960 $26,960 $48,000

Deputy Mayor $8,425 $8,425 $15,000

Other Elected Members

$6,740 $6,740 $12,000

Further information is contained in Council’s Policy – Elected Member Allowances & Support Policy (G:4). Interstate Travel 5 Elected Members traveled interstate on 4 occasions to attend the ALGA Conference; Murray Darling Association Conference; National Local Roads Conference and Shepparton AutoFest. Development Assessment Panel Members Independent Chairman - $500 per meeting. Other Members – no sitting fee Training of DAP members has continued throughout the year. TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITIES Council’s Elected Members’ Training & Development Policy (G:3) outlines Council’s commitment to provide training and development activities for its Elected Members, it also recognizes its responsibility to develop and adopt a policy for this purpose under Section 80A of the Local Government Act. Elected Members have continued to receive regular informal updates on changes to Legislation as it applies through regular briefings and are encouraged and do attend various Local Government structured training sessions, seminars and conferences. A copy of the ‘living’ plan is attached as appendix 8.

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COMPETITIVE TENDERING STATEMENT Council has a Procurement Policy with established criteria for competitive tendering and levels of financial delegation to staff. No policies or bylaws exist that restrict competition. This financial year saw Council successfully establish a Youth Centre for the local Community. It does not compete with any existing businesses within the region but complements the existing services. During 2007/2008 Council formally advertised and accepted the following competitive tenders for the provision of goods and services.

ITEM VALUE $

Supply, installation of two electronic gates - Depot 44,362.00

Combined Mt Baker and Murray Bridge collection and cartage of recycled waste

Passed In

Water Resource Management Plan 43,582.00

Refurbishment of Row Road Bridge Passed In

Security Services – Monitoring and maintenance** 13,648.80

Security Services – Patrols** 12,045.00

CCTV Supply, Installation and commission Passed In

Construction of toilet facilities for persons with a disability – Baker Reserve, Wellington

50,654.80

Purchase of new Auto Truck 113,872.00

- Less Trade In -27,500.00

Purchase of Forklift 32,854.80

Disposal of Council Assets – Surplus plant & equipment -9,455.00

Purchase of IT equipment 159,837.45

Construction of Fence Panels Passed In

Panel Deed for Consultants As required

Panel Deed for Electricians As required

Panel Deed for Line-Marking As required

TOTAL VALUE OF TENDERS ACCEPTED AND/OR PAID IN 2006/2007*

$433,901.85

* Inclusive of GST **Approximate – Schedule of Rates

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RISK MITIGATION

Risk Management The year saw a focus on risk management with a view to determining a snapshot of remediation that was required for Council’s civic assets. During this process, the identification of significant risk upon the Southern Farmers Wharf was found. This has been determined by Council as requiring removal as remediation costs are uneconomical. It is hoped that the Riverfront Management Plan will deliver an implementation plan for marine assets for the long term, which meet the requirements of the users of the adjacent waterways.

During the year, the Council won a state award from the Local Government Managers Association, for best practise in Risk Management. The Council undertook its annual risk review in accordance with the Local Government Mutual Liability Scheme rules for Council’s insurers. The Council performed exceptionally well, outperforming many other Council’s in its class for 7 of the 8 elements. Occupational Health and Safety: The Chief Executive as the OHS&W Responsible Officer accepts the ultimate responsibility to provide a healthy and safe workplace and working conditions for all employees. The Chief Executive provides for the establishment, provision and evaluation of OHS&W and Injury Management policies, procedures and systems to meet the requirements of the Occupational Health Safety & Welfare and Workers Rehabilitation & Compensation legislation and WorkCover Performance Standards. In meeting these obligations Council has approved the establishment of a senior position that will manage and coordinate Council’s OHS&W and Risk Management systems. The Local Government Workers Compensation Scheme penalises Councils with poor safety records and pays a percentage rebate (of Council contributions) to Councils with good safety records. The Rural City ended the financial year with a rebate of 41.3% of costs from the Scheme. There is an excellent result and all staff are to be commended for their safe working practices. In particular, the OHS&W Committee played a major role in identifying potential safety hazards, initiating actions to rectify them and implementing OHS&W training programs for all staff. Council thanks all Committee members (Peggy Bennett as Chair, Brenton Guenther, Dot Temby, Dave Allen, Pauline Hoare and David Wade for a job well done. Legal Council is involved in some legal proceedings, ie Planning Appeals pursuant to the Development Act, various civil claims in relation to reported/alleged tripping incidents and stormwater/flooding incidents which are all managed by our Risk Management Department in association with the Local Government Mutual Liability Scheme. Community Lands Council has adopted a Community Lands Register outlining all of Council’s Community Lands as described under the Local Government Act, 1999.

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STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT PLAN OVERVIEW Council adopted its Strategic Management Plan in September 2005 – appendix 9. Vision for 2025 A great place to live, work and enjoy, featuring:

a strong community pride and a welcoming community;

enhanced natural environments, conserved heritage and cultural diversity;

thriving and quality rural, industry, business and tourism sectors;

well planned opportunities for growth, employment and quality of life; and

strong levels of interdependence and interaction with the broader Murraylands Community. Strategic Priorities

1. Growth management 2. Infrastructure Provision 3. Community Planning & Facilities 4. Environment Improvements 5. Income Generation

Council’s review of progress against the Strategic Management Plan is detailed in appendix 10, January 2007, and notes excellent and ahead of time compliance with key goals and targets. Summary of Outcomes 1. Growth Management

Urban Growth , Riverfront Reserve, Mobilong Prison and Dairy land use studies – long term strategic planning.

Promotion of economic growth, such as Murray Bridge Race Course redevelopment project.

Railway land project – Council and Minister have agreed to the take the land to the market place to seek private investor for tourism accommodation, conference facilities and cultural and community development.

Stormwater Management 2. Infrastructure Provision

Adelaide Road Beautification

Sturt Reserve infrastructure

10 year stormwater management program

Increase of funding to rural roads, general road maintenance and reconstructions

Increase of funding for building maintenance

Investigation of new kerbside recycling program

CCTV security camera project, Sturt Reserve, following success of grant 3. Community Planning & Facilities

Skate Park development

Youth Centre

Increase of funding for building maintenance

Major events

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Smaller townships community consultation & community plan project

Ongoing delivery of Nursing Home and Home & Community programs.

Ongoing delivery of Crime Prevention programs, pending success of grant

CCTV security camera project, Sturt Reserve, following success of grant

Town Hall and Sixth Street upgrading feasibility study

Library Project – development of a new library complex, pending redevelopment of South Terrace precinct and private sector investment – estimate cost $5 million.

Town Hall Project – refurbishment of the Town Hall to provide community and civic functions and allowing for integration with the Regional Art Gallery to provide a civic and tourist hub. This project is likely to cost in excess of $4 million and is pending outcome of Town Hall feasibility and business plan being undertaken in 2007.

Recreational & Sporting Hub – development of a regional recreation and sporting complex providing shared facilities across a wide range of Community sports and activities and seeking private sector interest.

Dry area implementation

Pedal Prix

New arrivals Mayoral reception and refugee friendly city

New township entry signs

Focus on indigenous heritage plans

Lerwin accreditation

HACC accreditation

Promotion of multiculturalism 4. Environment Improvements

Adelaide Road Beautification

Sturt Reserve infrastructure

Investigation of new kerbside recycling program

5. Income Generation

Grants – external sourced including o $1.9 million for Ferries McDonald Road. o $165,000 for Schwerdt Road Stormwater o $20,000 for Integrated Water Resource Management Plan o $945,000 for headspace Youth Project. o $150,000 for CCTV Project o $84,000 for Narooma Wetland Project. o $42,000 for Youth Centre Renovations

Recurrent Federal assistance/grants – Roads to Recovery

Use borrowings to assist in emergency funding of stormwater management and longer term asset management projects.

Establishment of Strategic Development Fund via asset rationalisation and in house efficiency gains. Council has a fund which holds $700,000 to assist in funding of key strategic projects.

Strong process on 10 year financial plan commencing with workshop sessions

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CORPORATE & COMMUNITY SERVICES MANAGER KYM MILLER ASSET SERVICES Management of approximately 400 land parcels, which includes approximately 250 leaseholds

with community, service and sporting groups. Management of 86 buildings, each having an individual “asset renewal program” for the next 5

years to maintain and restore buildings to an acceptable standard. 20 licences and leases (excluding permits, outdoor dining and mooring) were negotiated and

finalised. A database has been established for landholders utilising Council's unmade road reserves for

grazing purposes, which is a requirement of the Local Government Act of 1999. Event permits were issued for major events held on Council land.

Australian International Pedal Prix, Murray Bridge Auto Fest, Christmas Pageant, Adelaide Vales Triatholon, 12th National Vintage Rally 2008 Country Swimming Championships.

Council undertook a review of its vacant land parcels with a view to dispose of particular sites no longer required. This year has seen Council negotiate the sale of parcels of land as follows

CT 2525/166 Lot 34 Priscilla Street

Lot 50 Hd Mobilong DP 50600 – Mypolonga CFS

CT 2680/102 Lot 100 Dorset Street Council has agreed to revocate the classification of land as community land to the following land parcels and seek public opinion with a view of their sale in the near future on the following:

CT 2226/153 Lot 70 McQuarrie Street

Road Plan 3037/A Parcel 17227 Murray Lane Asset Services have undertaken several road closures including:

Two road reserves in Rockleigh adjacent to Range Road

Carawatha Drive - Mypolonga

Portion of Rocky Gully Road / Mannum Road Implementation of a Rapid Response Officer to service all of its buildings on an as needs basis was introduced.

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COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT Community Cultural Development A successful collaborative partnership between Country Arts SA and the Rural City of Murray Bridge was the employment of a fulltime Arts & Culture Officer. The position provides back-up support for the Murray Bridge Regional Gallery & a resource to fill gaps within Community Services portfolio and further progress the cultural aspects in our community.

2010 Regional Centre of Culture & Town Hall Development. On 10th May 2008 Minister Hill announced that Murray Bridge would be the host of the 2010 Regional Centre of Culture. The program will see approximately $250,000 being committed to cultural infrastructure in Murray Bridge – this has been earmarked for the Town Hall project

and at least $750,000 worth of programming of arts and cultural activities in the community. 2010 will also mark the 100 year anniversary of theTown Hall which was built in 1910 and is one of the most prized historical buildings of its era in the Murray Bridge community. The Regional Centre of Culture’s aim is to leave a lasting legacy of creativity and sustainability that will build bridges within our culturally diverse community and promote local artists and Murray Bridge’s Culture and Heritage. Regional Gallery The Gallery continues to build on its strengths and is developing stronger audience participation through its diverse exhibition program. Exhibitions for the year were:- Alan Lukey - Retrospective; Landscapes of the Mind - Murray Lands Art and Craft Collective; Burning Issues - Country Arts SA; Snapshot – Country Arts SA; From Big Things Small things grow – Karen Varga; Ebb and Flow - MB Regional Art Society; A tribute to Iris Frame / Collectanea - Country Arts SA The year saw the installation of a new lighting system in Gallery 1 with additional lights installed in the Sculpture Court with funding sourced through Arts SA and Combined Rotary Clubs of Mobilong and Murray Bridge. The Gallery has opened a small retail space in the foyer area with handmade art and craft works for sale which will be further developed throughout the coming year. The shop will entice non gallery visitors, and will provide commission on the sale of consignment items. The Gallery is focused on increasing visitor numbers and developing a marketing plan and website in the year ahead. The Gallery would like to acknowledge the generous sponsorship of Sue Antel and the combined Rotary Clubs of Murray Bridge.

Impression of future town hall

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Gallery Statistics 2003-2004 3438, 12 month period, monthly average = 286 2004-2005 2101, 7 month period, monthly average (due to stage 2 closure) = 300 2005-2006 (approx) 5000, 12 month period, monthly average = 416 2006-2007 6730, 12 month period, monthly average = 561 (Pro Hart 1209) 2007-2008 4718 12 month period Monthly average = 393

Crime Prevention The installation of the IDENTIF-EYES CCTV surveillance camera project is nearing conclusion with the installation of seven cameras in ‘hot spots’ within the town’s CBD and river front reserves. The project is expected to be completed in July/August 2008 with the assistance of $150,000 from the National Community Crime Prevention Program. Throughout the past year the ‘Your Home Your Castle’ program has utilised the services of a number of trained volunteers to conduct audits and security installations for residents who have either had a break in or required advice on strategies to improve the safety in their homes. The very successful graffiti removal program continues by very dedicated community volunteers. Car Immobilisers continue to be made available to local residents free of charge with the recipient covering the cost of installation. A very popular program! INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY The IT focus for the past 18 months has been on improving the system availability levels and the business continuity position of all IT systems across council. To this end, a second computer facility has been built and linked back to the main facility by high speed fibre optic cable. Most of the servers have been virtualised and in the process have reduced the number of physical servers by more than half which has reduced our power consumption and improved overall manageability. In recent months a highly redundant storage area network across our two computer facilities has been installed to assist with an ever increasing need for disk storage and to improve recovery times in the event of a disaster. During this period an extra business unit to the support portfolio has been added, expanded and upgraded the telephone system across all sites, expanded the number of computers available for public use in the library, built and support a dedicated computer training facility using virtualised hardware and upgraded the data cabling at the Works Depot, Local Government Centre and Swimming Pool. PUBLIC LIBRARY The Public Library acts as the regional library for both the Murraylands and Murray Mallee regions. Services offered:

An extensive collection of print and non print materials including adult and children’s fiction and non fiction, cds, dvds and videos, magazines and newspapers.

Access to computers with 13 terminals available for free internet use, a play station, and 4 games machines in the Youth area. There is an additional pc dedicated to use by those researching local and family history.

Online access to library catalogue via www.murraybridge.sa.gov.au and http://library.rcmb.sa.gov.au

Friends of the Library deliver books to house bound residents and nursing home clients.

Book depots in Retirement villages, Hospital Day Care

Library service to Mobilong Prison

Weekly storytelling at 2 early learning centres

Interaction with students from Murray Bridge Special School

School holiday activities


http://library.rcmb.sa.gov.au/

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Monthly spot on local radio

Involvement with work experience students, work for the dole programmes, etc. Friends of the Library Friends of the Library is an enthusiastic group of volunteers working tirelessly to further the cause of the Library. It disposes of used library materials through book sales, delivers books to house bound residents and nursing home clients. It raises funds specifically for the benefit of the Public Library. University of the Third Age U3A uses the Library meeting rooms extensively for classes and recreational activities. It has installed cupboards and a refrigerator. Annual statistics 2007/08 Total number of borrowers – 14,820 Total number of loans – 172,257 Inter library loans – 4,745 Internet bookings – 14,411 Games Machine bookings – 1,672 New registrations – 1,071 CUSTOMER SERVICE Front Counter Enquiries 20,854 Counter enquiries – an increase of 5,872 Telephone Call Enquiries 30,047 calls were answered by Customer Service – a decrease of 835 calls VISITOR INFORMATION CENTRE The Visitor Information Centre continues to provide good service with approximately 30,000 enquiries handled during 2007/2008.

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DEVELOPMENT & ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES MANAGER GLORIA BOOKER The Development & Environmental Services team administers policies and legislative requirements on behalf of Council and has a significant influence upon the quality of life our community enjoys and upon the environment in which we live. Business Activities:

Land Use Planning

Building Control

Public & Environmental Health

Local Laws / Animal Management There are over 15 separate pieces of formal legislation which the staff administer and/or must have regard for. This is in addition to the various policies and regulations which sit under these Acts.

BUILDING SERVICES

Audit inspections of approved building work and foundation preparation throughout the Council area were carried out in accordance with the Building Inspection Policy. Council’s Building Fire Safety Committee, established pursuant to Section 71 of Development Act 1993, includes representatives from the MFS/CFS and is responsible for the checking of fire safety provisions in new and existing buildings. Of particular interest to the Committee are those types of buildings that may constitute a high fire safety risk, such as boarding houses, motels etc. These meetings are held 4 times a year, during which inspections of buildings are undertaken and notices sent to owners where there is non-compliance with the Building Code of Australia.

INSPECTORIAL SERVICES

Council’s After Hours service answered over 403 calls during the year. These calls were predominately dog related enquiries. Other calls were general enquiries, depot related matters, burning complaints, compliance issues, wandering stock, alarm call outs and By-Law infringements. Since December 2007 Council has been utilising an after hours calling service which has worked extremely well, reducing the number of non urgent after hours callouts.

FLAMMABLE MATTER & DOMESTIC BURNING

Council has agreed to the EPA’s Domestic Burning Policy, and only issues permits within the township boundary in special circumstances. Restricted burning of flammable matter permits were issued in relation to 397 requests, for both rural and urban properties across the council area.

PARKING

Following extensive notification through schools, flyers and newspaper articles, illegal parking in and around schools has been addressed and appears to be improving. Education programmes included notices to all schools reminding parents of their parking obligations while in the school areas.

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Development Applications

740

760

780

800

820

840

860

2004/05 2005/06 2006/07 2007/08

DEVELOPMENT ASSESSMENT The Development Assessment unit has processed 848 applications in 2007/2008, as follows:

Nature of Development Applications received 2004/05

Applications received 2005/06

Applications received 2006/07

Applications Received 2007/08

Class 10 buildings (sheds, verandahs, carports etc)

324 388 385 308

New dwellings (single dwellings, multi-dwelling arrangements, retirement village units)

178 180 185 268

Land Divisions (including Community Title & S49)

118 107 97 111

Residential extensions/alterations, habitable outbuildings

63 54 29 38

Commercial uses (shops, office, consulting rooms)

48 33 26 35

Industrial uses (workshops, motor repairs)

20 7 6 6

Other (animal keeping, swimming pools, temporary accommodation signage)

81 44 52 82

TOTALS 832 813 780 848

PLAN AMENDMENT REPORTS (PAR)/ DEVELOPMENT AMENDMENT PLAN (DPA)

During the reporting period two PAR’s were authorised and consolidated into the current Development Plan, these being the Primary Industry Zone and Residential (Narooma) Zone. Council has begun a process to change the Development Plan into the preferred Better Development Plan format. This will provide more uniformity to policies within zones and make it simpler and quicker to change zones in the future. During the year the reference to PAR’s was changed to DPA’s.

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DEVELOPMENT ASSESSMENT PANEL

The Panel consists of 3 Elected Members, 3 community representatives and the independent Presiding Member, Iris Iwanicki. The Panel held 10 meetings over the year and considered 40 reports. 23 approvals were granted, 7 applications were refused and 10 were deferred seeking further information.

Pathways Estate March 2008 Pathways Estate January 2005

ENVIRONMENT RESOURCES & DEVELOPMENT COURT

There were four (4) appeals lodged with the Environment Resources & Development Court during the 2007/2008 financial year. These appeals were for applications which had been refused by the Development Assessment Panel.

DOG REGISTRATIONS

The total number of dogs registered for the period was 5000. Council’s Rangers responded to 366 wandering dog complaints of which 44 dogs were returned straight back to the owners. 324 dogs were impounded with 197 being claimed by their owners, 29 were successfully placed in new homes with the remaining 125 being euthanised. Rangers investigated 25 dog attack/harassment situations and 100 noise (barking) complaints. Staff also dealt with a number of wandering stock issues. Council has conducted a broad advertising program to make people aware of when dog registrations are due.

LITTER

Illegal dumping of waste/litter continues despite Council’s efforts to control it. This situation was exacerbated during the year with the closure of the Brinkley Waste Depot due to fire. Since the waste transfer station has become operational at Brinkley the incidents of illegal dumping of rubbish has decreased. Every effort is made to identify the owner to allow action to be taken against the offender. The community is quite diligent in advising Council when and where road side rubbish is located. BY-LAWS Council has a number of By-Laws. These relate to:

Permits and Penalties

Council Land – use of, or control of, Council owned or controlled land other than streets or roads.

Roads – control of roads vested in Council.

Moveable Signs – control of sandwich boards on footpaths.

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Dogs – for the management of dog numbers in private homes.

Lodging houses – for the control of licencing and regulation lodging houses.

Taxis – repealed January 2007.

Building sites – to control building waste. ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH

Immunisation

Council continues to provide a comprehensive immunisation service. Clinics are held on the first Wednesday of each month with an average of 25 people attending. Vaccination programmes were carried out in the high schools in accordance with the NHMRC immunisation schedule. The HPV (cervical cancer) vaccine programme for females at high schools has continued during the year as per the NHMRC immunisation schedule. Food Safety Inspections of food businesses using the (AFSA) Australian Food Safety Assessment system continued throughout the year. Ninety one premises inspections were completed with approximately twenty follow-up inspections. Six inspections were instigated resulting from food related complaints. Eight Improvement Notices were issued against food businesses under Part 5 of the Food Act, 2001. Six of these have been complied with and two still have outstanding matters to be met. One Prohibition Order was placed on a food business and two expiation fines against the owner of the same business for non-complied with matters from an Improvement Notice. A Food Safety Training Session was held on the 10th of April, 2008 with 53 attendees completing the course and receiving a Certificate. This was a 3 hour TAFE accredited food handling and hygiene course. In April of this year one of Council’s Environmental Health Officers successfully completed training to become an accredited Food Safety Auditor. All high risk food businesses in the State are required to have had an audit completed by an accredited Auditor by the 5tht of October this year. Council Environmental Health Officers continue to provide food hygiene information when carrying out routine inspections and at request from the public. Public and Environmental Health To maintain adequate levels of public and environmental health in the community, Council’s Environmental Health Officers have been engaged in the following activities in the past twelve months: Provision of sharps containers to the public. (provided free to diabetics). Communicable disease interviews and investigations as requested by the Dept. of Health. Mosquito surveillance, education and control work including on site inspections with Uni. SA

mosquito control laboratory personnel. Inspections and testing of all of the public swimming pools. Approval and inspection of new/upgraded Wastewater Systems and plumbing work. In the past

twelve months council has approved 88 new wastewater systems. This comprised 4 STEDS/sewer connections, 29 new aerobic waste control systems, 44 conventional septic tank systems and 3 holding tanks. There were 6 upgrades to existing waste control systems.

In this reporting period 5 maintenance orders were served under Regulation 19 of the Waste Control Regulations, 1 notice under Section 17 of the Public and Environmental Health Act and 3 notices under Section 15 of the Public and Environmental Health Act.

Pollution prevention and control incorporating odour, insects, animal wastes and stormwater. Reporting to the Department of Health. Inspections of commercial premises (i.e. Recycling Depots)

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Development application referrals - assessment of issues of public health and environmental significance.

Investigation of possible locations for installation of motor home effluent disposal points and costs involved with the implementation of the effluent disposal scheme.

Chemical Container Collection ('drumMUSTER') Collection of drums under the 'drumMUSTER' programme was undertaken twice during the 2007/2008 financial year at the Brinkley landfill. Approximately 4500 drums were processed. DEVELOPERS DAY INFORMATION/BRIEFING SESSION

In February 2008 invitations were sent to a range of developers and business within the Murray Bridge district to attend an information and discussion session. The theme of the session was to provide information on what Council is considering for the future development of Murray Bridge and seek feedback from the community. Approximately 50 people attended.

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INFRASTRUCTURE AND TECHNICAL SERVICES MANAGER MARTIN WADDINGTON The Infrastructure and Technical Services department embraces the following key functional areas of Council’s overall business – Technical Services (Engineering), Operations (Depot), Horticulture. Stormwater Council has installed more stormwater drainage with works completed in accordance with it’s Stormwater Management Plan (May 2007) on Prosperity Grove and Hannaford Street. At the corner of Thomas and Wyreema Street the stormwater was upgraded in conjunction with the first stage upgrade of Thomas Street (Adelaide Road to Eleanor Terrace).

Thomas Street works Work also commenced on “Adelaide Road Stage 2A” stormwater drainage detention basin on Thomas Street. This last stage will complete the Adelaide Road stormwater drainage scheme Road Construction The following roads are gravel surfaced roads in the rural area that were re-sheeted;

Orlands Road, Flagstaff Road, Murrawong Road, Monarto Road The following roads are existing town roads that were reconstructed and sealed or sealed from a previously gravel surfaced state;

Adelaide Road Service Road, Bywaters Road, Commerce Road, Donald Avenue, Edmund Terrace, Hill Street, Maurice Road, Mulgundawah Road, North Terrace, Prosser Street, Raymond Road, Roper Road, Ronald Road, Second Street, Short Street, Swamp Road, Thomas Street – Adelaide Road to Eleanor Terrace, Trevor Street, West Terrace, Frahn Road

Several streets were resealed without the requirement to reconstruct;

Amanda Street, Brinkley Road, Cypress Terrace, Caroline Street, Carsten Drive, Edmund Terrace, Eleanor Terrace, Fourth Street, Galway Avenue, Gray Street, Murray Drive, Murray Street, Plymouth Street, Roper Road, Second Street, Sturt Street, Schottelius Avenue, Sylvia Street, Thomas Street, Third Street, Weigall Avenue, Wool Shed Road.

Mulgundawah Road

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Footpath construction Footpaths were constructed or reconstructed in the following areas;

East Terrace, Fifth Street, Fourth Street, Long Island Road, Mannum Road, Mary Terrace, McHenry Street, North Terrace, Railway Terrace, Seventh Street, West Terrace, Mannum Road, Swanport Road

Mannum Road footpath Long Island Road footpath

Parks and Gardens The introduction of a Central Control Irrigation system, to cater for 12 major parks and ovals was sourced through a Community Water Grants. This will have the benefit of controlling and initiating better water saving measures with less labour. An automated irrigation system was installed at Woodlane Reserve at Mypolonga and connected to the central control system. Previously the practice was to manually water between 7am and 10 am 4 days per week. Evaporation losses and even watering will be achieved with less wind during night time irrigation. Council installed artificial grass on Adelaide Road from Bridge Street to Maurice Road. Over 700m of this was previously irrigated turf thus reducing irrigation whilst still having an appealing ‘green’ entrance to the town. Council has also converted most public toilets to include waterless urinals. Two 45,000 litre rain water tanks were installed at Council’s works depot which has allowed stormwater to be harvested and used for a variety of non potable uses. This initiative was partly funded by a Community Water Grant/ Environmental Projects Council commenced the development of its Integrated Water Resource Management Plan. This plan will inform Council on strategies to reduce its reliance on the river for irrigation water. Investigations and field trials continue into the feasibility of storing stormwater in the aquifers below ground and then harvesting the water for irrigation purposes. This is commonly known as Aquifer Storage and Recovery (ASR) which has been quite successful in City of Salisbury.

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Brinkley Recycling and Waste Transfer Station

On the 19 March 2008 Council opened the Brinkley Recycling and Waste Transfer Station after fire closed the site in September 2007. Operating hours are Wednesday and Sunday between 10am and 4pm for the general public and Monday to Friday 1 to 4pm for account holders.

This will ultimately mean that there will be much more recycling. Educating the Community on how to reduce waste with items in the paper and mail outs. Separating recyclables will be better for the environment and cheaper on their pockets. There has been a lot of education and information to residents along the way. Other projects and activities

Construction of a walkway between the PS Murray Princess landing and Bridge Street neared completion.

Monitoring of water levels and safety of boat ramps continued. Funding application submitted.

Playgrounds installed at Sturt, Thiele and Baker Reserves.

Preparations for the construction of Ferries McDonald Road involving important environmental assessments and design. Funding has been sought from Federal Government sources.

Brinkley Recycling & Waste Transfer Station

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AGED CARE SERVICES

MANAGER REG BUDARICK

Lerwin Nursing Home – 2007-2008

Lerwin Nursing Home is a 75 bed facility that provides accommodation for people who have a high level of need for continuous nursing care. Lerwin is located in Joyce Street and is designed as a stand-alone facility, however, the home is a business unit of Council and Local Government Centre staff assist in a number of functional areas of administration and governance including accounting, payroll, and human resources.

Operational

Funding A new funding model (for Australian Government subsidy payments) commenced on 20th March 2008. Due to this change, a number of systems and processes needed to be changed. Staff participated in extensive training leading up to the changes. A new Resident Care and Operations computer package was introduced, with all basic resident data transferred to the new system before the March commencement date. Accreditation This years reporting period has again fallen between the major Accreditation rounds (3 yearly) however quality activities have continued to allow continuous improvement outcomes to be met. An unannounced check visit by the Standards Accreditation Agency occurred during the reporting period. On this occasion the assessors concluded that Lerwin was compliant with the standards. Lerwin also underwent a Workcover audit as a Council site covered by Local Government Workers Compensation Scheme. The Scheme is audited by Workcover each 3 years, with a different set of Council sites audited on each occasion. The results will be reported in 2008-2009.

Staffing Lerwin has maintained low level of work injuries and associated workers compensation claims which has again resulted in a good level of insurance bonus (and which reduces the premiums paid). Hosting of groups of personal care and nursing students for part of their practical placements has continued. This has resulted in the employment of several carers following completion of their training. Although the supply of Registered Nurses and Enrolled Nurses remains an industry issue, the number of shifts that have needed to be covered by agency staff this year has again remained low. A new 3 year collective agreement was negotiated with the nursing staff and commenced on 10th August 08.

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Resident Lifestyle Activities Resident lifestyle activities are an important feature of the care provision at Lerwin and a wide range of events and outings have been enjoyed by residents. A brief summary of ‘Resident Lifestyle’ at Lerwin Nursing Home for the year included:

Launched ‘Living@Lerwin’ Newsletter, refer to Rural City of Murray Bridge website: <www.murraybridge.sa.gov.au/site/page.cfm>.

Conducted a ‘Leisure, Interests and Activities Survey’. Residents had the opportunity to participate and influence continuous improvement – ‘their home their lifestyle’. This report describes the current and proposed future status and needs of residents at Lerwin Nursing Home (Lerwin) Murray Bridge. Over all, the findings suggest that leisure and lifestyle programs do enhance the independence and quality of life for residents of Lerwin.

Resident Lifestyle - special occasions and connecting with the Community: Dundees Wildlife Park visited Lerwin; trip to Monarto Zoo; celebrated National Volunteer Week in May; Old Time Dancers; Birthday Party Lunches (monthly); Clown Doctors (Jingo & Wobbles); lunch and cruise MV Barrangul; Senior Citizens choir; Melbourne Cup lunch; Residents Christmas Party (entertainment by Antonio Villano and Kate Lara); Christmas festival at Murray Bridge Town Hall; miniature train and boat display; afternoon tea at Waterford Estate; Concordia Kindy Christmas Nativity Play; Christmas carols by Twin Bridges Lions Club; visit to The Captains Cottage Museum; Australia Day celebrations with Wades Country Music;

Popular ongoing group and individual activities included: Bingo, knitting, cards, piano sing-along, craft, old films, cooking, Timber N Tools (for men only); BBQ’s, carpet bowls, Prayer Care, ecumenical Church Services (weekly). Pet visits remain very popular with residents.

(Photos: Residents enjoying a visit from canine “volunteers”)

Volunteers have once again provided important assistance to residents at Lerwin this year. The types of activities which volunteers are involved in included resident activities, feeding of residents, piano playing, running a knitting club and general visiting and talking to residents and the “Timber and Tools” program focusing on interests for men. Several volunteers have also brought pets in for visits with residents. Volunteers also assisted with fundraising for the development of a new “kitchen garden” outdoor area. Without the work of these dedicated volunteers it would be much harder to provide the broad range of activities currently on offer.

http://www.murraybridge.sa.gov.au/site/page.cfm

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Lerwin Admissions

2007/2008 Financial year Permanent resident admissions – 24 Respite admissions – 24 Permanent residents diagnoses

Dementia Neurological Other

25 14 9

Average occupancy was 99.2% for the year. Generous financial donations from a number of service clubs, individuals and bequests from families and friends of former residents were received and have been allocated for purchasing new equipment and for some landscaping projects. Donations of goods were also received for a fundraising event. COMMUNITY CARE PROGRAMS 2007 - 2008 The Community Care programs administered from the Rural City of Murray Bridge provide services that broadly target frail and at risk aged persons or younger disabled adults with moderate to severe disabilities who without the assistance of these programs would be at risk of entering residential care prematurely. The programs are provided through a partnership between Council and Commonwealth and State Governments. Council is one of a number of service providers in our region who each have specified roles and target groups. Council has two distinct program areas these being

Home and Community Care consisting of Domestic Assistance, Social Support (including a Men’s Group for older men who live alone), Home Maintenance and Modifications and Transport

National Respite for Carers and Carer’s Group which includes Respite for Carers and Social Support

The Home and Community Care (HACC) program is a State funded program (although the HACC program itself is a joint Federal / State initiative) which aims to provide a wide range of services to frail aged and disabled people. Council’s HACC funded program operates via a service level agreement that focuses mainly on aged residents (with a smaller component for younger disabled adults). The National Respite for Carers (NRCP) program is a Commonwealth funded program which focuses on providing in-home respite for those who act as carers of the aged or disabled, plus a Carer’s Support Group. In each case, Council contributes significantly to the programs in cash or in kind. Council employs one full time and one part time co-ordinator and a part time administration assistant who manage the program on a day to day basis.

There were 586 active clients registered with Council’s Community Care programs at the end of the reporting period with some clients using the service more regularly than others.

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24 self employed contractors provide in-home services and meet with the Coordinators regularly as a group to discus general client and service delivery related issues.

HACC PROGRAMS

Volunteer Transport Program

The Transport program covers essential trips within the Council area.

16 volunteers support the program transporting clients locally, to the Adelaide Hills. Volunteers are reimbursed for out of pocket expenses.

The program supports older people with essential shopping. This service is extensively utilised, with client’s often travelling 2-3 per vehicle making it a social occasion. Volunteers assist with the shopping.

Some of our volunteer drivers

Accessible Bus The Accessible Bus used for Adelaide medical appointments is run in conjunction with the Office of Public Transport.

A ramp is provided for those people with access issues.

The bus is fitted to transport up to 9 people plus 1 wheelchair client.

Clients are transported to all major hospitals in Adelaide and various other medical specialists and clinics.

A Home and Community Care Car driven by a Volunteer is available to take Clients to appointments in Mt Barker, Stirling and Strathalbyn hospitals. Transportation of younger disabled residents of Murray Bridge continues with the support of the Accessible Bus service.

Home maintenance and Modifications. The maintenance program helps with most aspects of minor home repairs such as:

once off gardening assistance

gutter & window clean

changing smoke detector batteries & light bulbs

minor plumbing such as replacing tap washers Assistance with home modifications such as grab rails and ramps is also available under this section of the program. The work is undertaken with advice from the Occupational Therapist, from Murray Mallee Health Service and monitored by the Care Coordinators.

Ramp & Grab-rail

Dementia Respite

Dementia Respite is a component of Home and Community Care. It is designed to support the carer, caring for a person with cognitive and/or physical impairments. Respite can be conducted in or out of the home.

Domestic Assistance

Domestic Assistance and Social Support are a significant part of the overall program and assists clients who have difficultly attending daily tasks or who are socially isolated. The HACC program works closely with other local service providers. Much of this work is also assisted by volunteers.

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National Standards A set of uniform service standards apply across HACC programs nationally. Each HACC funded agency is audited by an external agency every three years to measure compliance against these standards and to encourage agencies to engage in continuous quality improvement. Several minor areas of improvement which were identified in the last National Service Standard Audit held in July 2008 are being worked on.

NATIONAL RESPITE FOR CARERS (NRCP)

This program assists carers to maintain a life beyond the home and caring role. It primarily provides the carer with a break for several hours or, on occasions, overnight. Funding provides respite using a trained support worker thus allowing the carer to take a break.

The Murray Bridge Carers Group facilitated by Care Coordinators provides support in a number of ways including short bus trips and meetings throughout the year. 5 outings and 7 support group meetings were held during previous twelve months. A one night retreat in Glenelg was facilitated in May for 8 participants. Feedback indicates that these breaks are of great benefit to carers who participate. Friendships are forged, experiences shared and issues discussed. Carers group enjoys an outing The retreat this year was also supported with a grant from the Carers Association. This program is covered by a set of service delivery standards similar to those of HACC. A service standard audit was conducted for this program in February 08 with the service receiving a “high quality service” rating. Several ideas for improvement that were identified are currently being worked on.

COLLABORATION WITH OTHER SERVICE PROVIDERS

During the past year, program coordinators have been involved in a number of networking and project working groups including the Murray Mallee Aging Taskforce, Dementia Coordinators Regional Network, Buddy Program, Local Government Aged & Community Care Workers Committee, Veterans Affairs Coordinators Network and Volunteer Coordinators Network Meetings. The links provided by these forums are important for the delivery of seamless packages of care for residents of Murray Bridge and the Murray Mallee region. The coordinators also provided information sessions for a number of service and special interest clubs.

MURRAY MALLEE AGEING TASKFORCE (MMAT)

The MMAT is made up of 30 organisations across the Murray Mallee and meets bi monthly. An Executive Committee elected by members of the full MMAT meets monthly and supervises the work of the project officer Gary Sawyer. The Rural City of Murray Bridge provides administrative support (office space, phones etc), meeting room space and manages the project finances and provides day-to-day guidance and direction to the project officer.

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The project has continued this year thanks to a one year grant. A grant application has been lodged for a further 3 years of funding.

STATISTICS

HACC Volunteer Transport

Destination Kilometres Hours

Local (own vehicle) 33,922 2,581

Mt Barker 250 10

Other 3092 111

Total 37264 2702

Clients by Care Category Consumers

HACC Home Assist – Domestic 134

HACC Home Assist - Maintenance 102

HACC Home Assist -Modifications 18

Commonwealth Respite for Carers (CRC) 42

Carers Group 15

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STAFFING Organisational Reporting An organization chart is attached as appendix 11. The Manager Infrastructure & Technical Services is located at Council’s Depot. The Manager Lerwin is located at the Lerwin Nursing Home. Staffing 1st July 2007 employed 228 staff. June 30 2008 Council employed 238 staff. Broken down as follows:

Lerwin Nursing Home 101 employees. Administrative/professional/technical staff 81 employees Outside personnel 56 employees

During the year 2007/2008, 27 staff left Lerwin and 24 staff commenced (25.9% turnover rate) During the year 2007/2008, 17 staff left the Rural City and 29 commenced employment (13.4% turnover rate). Staff Training

40 training workshops were held in 2007/2008 with attendance by 430 employees and volunteers.

These workshops emphasised Customer Service, OHS&W, Governance and Technical Skills. Depot based employees have completed the required modules to achieve competency in Certificate IV – Civil Construction.

Seminars were conducted on Skin Cancer Screening, Health Checks, Dietary Analysis and Health Lifestyles.

Employee Relations The Rural City negotiated two Australian Workplace Agreements during the 2007/2008 financial year.

A Collective Agreement was successfully negotiated with ‘Field’ staff covered by the Local Government Employees’ Award.

No lost time was incurred during these negotiation processes. EEO Statement The Rural City of Murray Bridge is an Equal Employment Opportunities employer. Code of Conduct The Rural City of Murray Bridge has adopted Code of Conduct principles for staff and Elected Members. Staff Travel Staff participated in intrastate travel with 4 staff members participating in national travel. No staff members traveled internationally.

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FINANCIAL Appendix 12 – Rating Policy 2007/2008 Appendix 13 – Audited Financial Statement for 30 June 2008.

Appendix 14 – Snapshot financial direction 2008/2009

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

OVERVIEW & HIGHLIGHTS

Message from Mayor, Allan Arbon & Chief Executive Officer, David Altmann 2-3

Snapshot of Achievements 4-6

Future Directions, Projections, Predictions 2007/2008 6

Elected Membership 7

Core Services – Senior Management Team 8

Recognising Volunteer Support 9 PROFILE

Council Locations 10

Key Facts 11 COUNCIL

Council Elections 12

Council Meetings 12

Statement of Council Representation 12

Population 12

Social Inclusion 12

Multiculturalism 13

Citizenship Ceremonies 13

Indigenous Support 13

Access to Council Documents 14

Public Participation in Council’s Decision Making Process 14

Community Consultation 15-16

Confidential Items 17

Delegations 17

Decision Making, Structure, Functions 17-18

Review of Decisions 18

Information - FOI requests 18

Representation on External Bodies 19

Section 41 Committees 20-22 o Accessibility Advisory Committee o Audit Committee o Community Cultural Development Committee o District Bushfire Prevention Committee o Community Grants & Donations Funding Advisory Committee o Murray Bridge Regional Gallery Management Committee o Youth Action Committee o Zsolt Telkesi Youth Grants Advisory Committee

Elected Member Allowances & Training & Development Activities 23

Competitive Tendering Statement 24

Risk Mitigation Occupational Health & Safety 25

Legal 25

Community Lands 25 STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT PLAN

Overview 26-27

Corporate & Community Services 28-31

Development & Environmental Services 32-36

Infrastructure & Technical Services 37-39

Aged Care Services incorporating the Lerwin Nursing Home 40-45

Staffing 46

Financial 47

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Appendices –

1. Section 90, Local Government Act 1999 2. Freedom of Information Statement 3. Murray & Mallee Local Government Association Annual Report 4. Southern & Hills Local Government Association Annual Report 5. Adelaide Hills Regional Waste Management Authority Annual Report 6. Provincial Cities Audited Financial Statement 7. Council Delegate Membership Listing 8. Elected Member Training Plan 9. Strategic Management Plan 10. Strategic Management Plan update December 2006/January 2007 11. Organisational Chart 12. Rating Policy 2007/2008. 13. Audited Financial Statement for 30 June 2008 14. Financial Snapshot for 2008/2009 (extract from Annual Business Plan) 15. Audit Committee Report for 2007/2008.

This Annual Report was adopted by Council on 13 October 2008 noting the Audited Financial Statements will be provided to Council for adoption at a later date when prepared. The Audited Financial Statements were adopted by Council at a Special meeting held on the 27 November 2008 along with the Audit Committee’s report for 2007/2008.

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