annual report 2009/2010 - lithgow city...

Annual Report 2009/2010

Table of Contents Chairman's Report .................................................................................................... 3 Organisation and Structure ..................................................................................... 5

Vision Mission Objectives Membership

Executive Committee 2009-2010 ............................................................................. 6 About Centroc ........................................................................................................... 7

Area Centroc Board ....................................................................................................... 8 Executive General Managers Advisory Committee (GMAC) Staff Project Teams Centroc Organisational Structure as of 30 June 2010 ....................................... 9 Lobbying Priorities ............................................................................................. 10 Project Teams Supported Regional Initiatives Supporting Centroc’s Two Objectives Advocacy Support .............................................................................................. 11 Operational Support ........................................................................................... 12 Centroc Delegates to June 30 2010 ................................................................... 13 Centroc – Good value in 2009/2010 at a glance ............................................... 14

General Managers’ Advisory Committee Report ................................................. 15 Infrastructure Group Report .................................................................................. 17 Health Workforce Committee Report .................................................................... 19 Telecommunications Project Report .................................................................... 20 Environmental Sustainability Report .................................................................... 22 Netwaste Annual Report 2009/2010 ...................................................................... 26 Central NSW Tourism Year to Date Summary ...................................................... 48 Weight of Loads Report ......................................................................................... 50 Centroc OHS/Risk Management Group ................................................................ 52 Regional Training Service and Human Resources Group Report ...................... 54 Supply Management Team Report ........................................................................ 58 Auditors Report ...................................................................................................... 60

Chairman's Report Local Government working regionally has continued to build on our growing reputation as we meet the challenges of delivering more with less for our communities. The Executive Secretary’s report will describe ways in which Centroc has been and continues to provide support to Councils, most particularly member budgets while explaining our financial result for the year. It also provides clear advice regarding the benefits and good value of being a member from a Council operations’ perspective. The remainder of this Annual Report explains how Centroc works and provides advice regarding the totality of our efforts for the year. If you are interested in up to date advice on our activities, please go to our website at centroc.com.au. I would like to concentrate my report to you on our advocacy successes for the year. Highlights for 2009/2010 were-

• The palpable co-operation of the Executive Mayors in their meeting with the Prime

Minister at the Federal Community Cabinet in Bathurst in November

• The support from both the State and Federal Governments for the Long Term Strategic Corridor Plan for the Bells Line along with Centroc being included on the steering committee

• Federal Government Jobs Fund announced $1.3m for the Cancer Care West Lodge

in September

• The unanimous support of members in November 2009 for the Centroc Water Security Study which went on to win the Institute of Public Works Engineer’s Award in May 2010

• Minister Albanese describing Centroc as one of the two top ROCs in the nation – given that he is the past Chair of WSROC I can imagine no higher praise from him

Support for regionalism continues to build and the co-operative, hard working approach taken by members, our General Managers and our staff is taking full advantage of this growth. In 2009/2010 our members have not shied away from the real challenges confronting our region. Be it the Bells Line of Expressway, transport and water infrastructure, health workforce, telecommunications or regional development, Centroc has stepped up to the plate and taken our concerns to both the state and federal levels by identifying the solutions for our area working with our communities. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all members for their commitment to the region’s programming where we continue to provide cost savings through our operations and outcomes from our advocacy. In particular I would like to thank the General Managers’ Advisory Committee for their support for the operational projects of Centroc and the sound support and advice provided to the Board for the year. The year had its low points too. It was a terrible blow to us all to lose Robert Wilson OAM who died in a tragic car accident while serving the region. In recognition of his service to regionalism, the Local Government and Shires Association subsequently developed an award in his name the celebration of which was in our region at our recent Summit.

Finally, it would be remiss of me to not say a fond farewell to Bob Debus whose remarkable service to Centroc has been integral to our successes in the past 4 years. I commend this Annual Report to you all.

Cr Neville Castle Chairman

Centroc wins the Engineers Australia Award for Regional Infrastructure

for the Centroc Water Security Study in May 2010

Executive Mayors meet with former Prime Minister Kevin Rudd

Organisation and Structure Vision Central NSW is recognised as vital to the sustainable future of New South Wales and Australia. Mission Centroc is recognised as the lead organisation advocating on agreed regional positions and priorities for Central NSW whilst providing a forum for facilitating regional cooperation and sharing of knowledge, expertise and resources; effectively nurturing sustainable investment and infrastructure development. Objectives Regional Sustainability - Encourage and nurture suitable investment and

infrastructure development throughout the region and support members in their action to seek from Governments: financial assistance, legislative and/or policy changes and additional resources required by the Region. This objective will be principally actioned by the Board with the support of General Managers Advisory Committee (GMAC) member Councils.

Regional Cooperation and Resource Sharing – Contribute to measurable

improvement in the operational efficiency and effectiveness of Member Councils through facilitation of the sharing of knowledge, expertise and resources and, where appropriate, the aggregation of demand and buying power. This objective will be principally facilitated by GMAC with the guidance of the Board.

Membership Bathurst Blayney Boorowa Cabonne Cowra Forbes Harden Lachlan Lithgow Oberon Orange Parkes Upper Lachlan Weddin Wellington Young Central Tablelands Water

Executive Committee 2009-2010 Centroc Chairman Cr Neville Castle Mayor Lithgow City Council Centroc Executive Secretary/Treasurer Roger Bailey General Manager Lithgow City Council Centroc Deputy Chair Cr Phyllis Miller Mayor Forbes Shire Council GMAC Executive Members Carissa Bywater General Manager Forbes Shire Council Paul Devery General Manager Cowra Shire Council Garry Styles General Manager Orange City Council David Sherley General Manager Bathurst Regional Council Centroc Executive Members Cr Bill West Mayor Cowra Shire Council Cr John Davis Mayor Orange City Council Cr Paul Toole Mayor Bathurst Regional Council

About Centroc Area

Centroc Board Two delegates (usually the Mayor and General Manager) represent Councils on the Centroc Board. Executive The Executive consists of ten office bearers, eight of whom are elected at the Annual General Meeting. It comprises of a Chairperson, Immediate Past Chairperson, Deputy Chairperson, Secretary/Treasurer and two elected members of constituent Councils. The General Manager or his/her nominee of the Council that the Chair represents is automatically appointed as Secretary/Treasurer. The General Managers of all Executive Councils are elected automatically from the remainder of the Executive. General Managers Advisory Committee (GMAC) To assist the organisation in the conduct of its activities a General Managers’ Advisory Committee was established in April 2002. GMAC meets four times per year and at the direction of the Board advises on administrative, planning, policy and resourcing matters of Centroc. The Chair of GMAC is the Secretary/Treasurer of Centroc. Staff Centroc has evolved as a small de-centralised organisation. In 2009/10, nine employees were spread throughout the region at various Councils including two days a week of administrative support at the Chair Council. This structure allows all Councils the opportunity to employ Centroc staff and be involved in the various projects, effectively spreading the benefit across the region. Centroc staff include: Executive Officer, Learning and Development Manager, Sustainability Program Manager, Finance Officer, That’s A Good Idea! Project Officer, Compliance & Cost Savings Manager, Climate eXchange Project Officer, Training and Program Support Officer and Chair Council Support Officer. Project Teams Project Teams are an important component of Centroc’s operation and vital to its success. Project Teams are formed to allow cross collaboration and the sharing of knowledge, expertise and resources. Teams are established on the recommendation of the Centroc Board with a predetermined objective, participation is voluntary and reports are submitted quarterly to the Board and GMAC. Team Leaders are often appointed to Project Teams to assist the EO in the management of the Team, to set agendas and to advise GMAC on the activities of the Team.

Centroc Organisational Structure as of 30 June 2010

17 Central NSW Councils 1 County Council

CentrocBoard Chair Cr N Castle Two delegates from each member Council

General Managers Advisory Committee Chairperson (Mr Roger Bailey)

Executive Officer

Jennifer Bennett

Compliance & Cost Savings

Lee Chapman

Regional Training Coordinator

Sonia Rudd

Training and Program Support

Kate Barker

Finance Officer Part Time

Ann Thomas

Sustainability Programs Manager

Rachael Young

That’s A Good Idea Project Officer

Catriona McKenzie

Climate eXchangeProject Officer

Lis Bastian

CentrocSupport Part Time

Samantha Champion

Lobbying Priorities Bells Line of Expressway Transport and Water Infrastructure Environmental Sustainability Telecommunications Health Regional Development Education

Project Teams Occupational Health and Safety Human Resources Managers Group Supply Management Environmental Sustainability Enterprise Risk Management Film and Television Infrastructure Group Compliance and Cost Savings

Supported Regional Initiatives Bells Line Expressway Group Netwaste Weight of Loads Central NSW Tourism Central West Regional Development Australia

Supporting Centroc’s Two Objectives Where Centroc objectives are advocacy on behalf of the region and offering support to member Council operations to increase efficiency and effectiveness, Centroc renews its Management Plan annually through stakeholder consultation and planning sessions. Each of Centroc’s advocacy and operational initiatives is sponsored by a General Manager. General Managers determine the level of resourcing and structure required. This is reported back to GMAC and the Board on a quarterly basis against the management plan for the year. The following two pages show the way in which advocacy and operational objectives are supported.

Executive Mayors meet with former Prime Minister Kevin

Rudd

Advocacy Support

Operational Support

Centroc Delegates to June 30 2010 Bathurst Regional Council Cr Paul Toole Mayor Mr David Sherley General Manager

Lithgow City Council Cr Neville Castle Mayor Mr Roger Bailey General Manager

Blayney Shire Council Cr Bruce Kingham Mayor Mr Aaron Jones General Manager

Oberon Council Cr Keith Sullivan Mayor Mr Bruce Fitzpatrick General Manager

Boorowa Shire Council Cr Wendy Tuckerman Mayor Mr David Philpott General Manager

Orange City Council Cr John Davis Mayor Cr Reg Kidd

Cabonne Council Cr Kevin Duffy Mayor Mr Graeme Fleming General Manager

Parkes Shire Council Cr Ken Keith Mayor Mr Alan McCormack General Manager

Cowra Shire Council Cr Bill West Mayor Mr Paul Devery General Manager

Upper Lachlan Shire Council Cr John Shaw Mayor Mr John Bell General Manager

Forbes Shire Council Cr Phyllis Miller Mayor Ms Carissa Bywater General Manager

Weddin Shire Council Cr Maurice Simpson Mayor Mr Trevor Lobb General Manager

Harden Shire Council Cr Chris Manchester Mayor Mr Max Kershaw General Manager

Wellington Council Cr Anne Jones Mayor Mr Allan Dive General Manager

Lachlan Shire Council Cr Des Manwaring Mayor Cr Kim Jones

Young Shire Council Cr Stuart Freudenstein Mayor Mr Peter Vlatko General Manager

Central Tablelands Water Cr John Farr

Chair Mr Tony Perry

General Manager

Current projects at no on-top costs to members: • Regional Economic

Development Strategy • Health Workforce Strategy • Telecommunications Regional

Environment Plan • Water Security Study Contact Details Jennifer Bennett Executive Officer Mobile: 0428 690 935 Email: [email protected]

Operational Cost Savings The compliance and Cost Savings Program Saved members nearly $880K in billable dollars in its first six months of operation – at no extra cost to members. Making your fees work for you For every dollar that your council spends in the 2009/2010 financial year, Centroc multiplies by seven to deliver our significant programming.

Centroc – Good value in 2009/2010 at a glance

Centroc lobbying gets results • $550K fully funded award

winning Centroc Water Security Study completed and recognised by State and Federal agencies

• $1m for the Bells Line Long Term Strategic Corridor Plan – Centroc on the Steering Committee

• A further $3.5m to be spent on the region in planning transport priorities

• Federal Govt announces $1.3m for Cancer Care West Lodge

Check out the Centroc website at centroc.com.au for more information

Centroc gets grant funding As a regional entity Centroc is well positioned for federal and state funding. Some of the bigger projects over three years are as follows: • $486K fully funded

environmental program • $778K fully funded

environmental program • $790 fully funded Carbon+

program The 2009/2010 budget includes over $700,000 worth of grant funding.

Savings through the training service Regional HR and Training Between July 09 and June 10 the Centroc training service has: • Conducted 53 types of courses

training 1474 people • Obtained savings of $83,211 on

course costs, $87,919 on travel and accommodation and $19,575 on coordination time. A total saving of $190,711

The average cost of training per person provided by Centroc is $395 (17% cheaper than alternative providers) the average cost of training per person provided by alternative provider $474 Training Statistics For the 2009-2010 financial years the following has occurred:

• All 19 member councils have accessed courses run by the Training Service

• 9 non member council have attended training run by Centroc

• 2 state departments have attended Centroc training

• 1 government service has attended Centroc training

• 10 private organisations have accessed training

• 53 different types of courses have been delivered

• 1474 people have been trained via the service

• Total spend with the service is $379,353

• Cost of training using alternative providers would have been $461,904

• Savings on course costs is $83,211

• Savings on travel and accommodation costs is $87,919

• Savings on coordination and research time is $19,575

Sharing resources and co-operating to save money and time OHS/Risk Management The OHS / Risk Management Groups works to collectively improve the safety of council staff and reduce councils exposure to risk. By sharing knowledge and resources the group has maintained currency with legislation and implementation of best practice in the workplace. 2009-2010 focused on management of the ageing workforce, workers compensation and regular information sessions from WorkCover. Centroc and Orana Risk Management Groups implemented an annual combined meeting to increase opportunities for resource sharing and delivery of projects. filmcentral nsw encouraging film to the region while giving members compliance with the Department of Local Government. Supply Team

Developing regional contracts to reduce costs and trialling products and processes across the region.

mailto:[email protected]�

General Managers’ Advisory Committee Report Chair: Roger Bailey Secretary Treasurer Centroc has had a successful year delivering on both of its aims- advocacy for the region and operational support for its members. It is clear that Centroc is making a difference at the operational level in Councils and I commend members take the time to consider all reports from our project teams that describe ways in which the region supports every member. There are three areas I would to highlight in this report where I also provide advice on the audited financial position. These are the new Compliance and Cost Savings Program, Centroc’s growing capacity in grant acquisition and the benefit of our growing network. In terms of providing operational support to members, the highlight has been the Compliance and Cost Savings Program to be rolled out over three financial years. It incorporates a revolving cost savings fund and so looks to self funding like most Centroc programming. In the mean time it is primarily debt funded from the Centroc surplus. The program started 6 months late as we spent some time finding the right person for the job. Lee Chapman has delivered nearly $800,000 worth of savings to June 30 to members through the telephony audit and the diesel tax rebate. Along with these savings most members are now part of the regional approach to internal audit Lee has delivered. The focus is now on savings in electricity. I wanted to highlight grant acquisition because it is an area where operating regionally can deliver good results. Notable achievements for Centroc have been the fully funded water security study, the over $1m of funding for environmental programming and the recent Sustaining Basin Communities Program funding of close to $800K. Centroc staff have both growing capacity in grant writing as well as growing networks both in member Councils and into the community. I would like to especially thank the Centroc Infrastructure Group for their efforts in securing nearly $1.5m of funding for the region for water security. Looking at other regions, such as the Hunter, RAMROC, REROC and the Illawarra, putting the strategic effort into grant ready programming and ensuring the stakeholders are in place is critical to success. I commend to members that they continue to support this regional approach as it pays off. This leads into the growing number of formal and informal networks Centroc has grown in the past twelve months. Having three General Managers and four member elected representatives on the Central West Regional Development Australia Board brings our two organisations closer together. We have signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Lachlan Catchment Management Authority (CMA) and are working on draft with the Central West CMA and the Central West Regional Development Australia Board. As part of our activities in the health, environment and regional development sectors, Centroc trades on relationships including with:

• Western Research Institute • Central Western Farmers • Central West Regional Development Australia • Central West and Lachlan Catchment Management Authorities

• Central West Division of General Practitioners and The Rural Doctors Network

• Central NSW Tourism, Brand Orange and Arts Out West Please find enclosed the audited accounts for the year which show excellent results in grant acquisition and reflect our growing program. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all sponsoring General Managers in the ROC for their efforts in their respective projects. The success of our projects is assured when they are embedded in our Councils. This is a slow process but one where staff in member Councils across the region are becoming increasingly engaged in regional activities with the corollary benefits. The success of our projects relies heavily on our Centroc staff. There has been some turnover in 2009/2010 and we welcome to staff Ms Kate Barker, Ms Lis Bastian, Ms Lee Chapman, Ms Catriona McKenzie and as support for the Executive Council, Ms Sam Champion. On behalf of the Board and General Managers I would like to take this opportunity to pay a special thanks to the Centroc team headed up by Jenny Bennett and also including Ann Thomas, Sonia Rudd and Rachael Young. These staff are employed through some of our member Councils and generously hosted around the region. Thanks on behalf of Centroc staff to our members Forbes, Bathurst, Orange, Cowra, Wellington, Young and Lithgow.

Roger Bailey Chairman, GMAC Centroc Executive General Manager, Lithgow City Council

Centroc wins the Engineers Australia Award for Regional Infrastructure for the Centroc Water Security Study in May

2010

Infrastructure Group Report Jennifer Bennett This has been a busy and successful year for the Centroc Infrastructure Group. Considerable efforts have been directed to support the development and outcomes of the Centroc Water Security Study. The year has also included support for grain rail in the region and the weather station near Dubbo. The year began by packing away our disappointment with the Central West NSW Transport Needs Study. The engineers of the region reviewed the document and noted that while it made a few good points, it was not the blueprint for transport infrastructure upgrades that the region needs. Moving on, the Infrastructure Group successfully completed the Centroc Water Security Study (the Study) which received unanimous support from the Centroc Board. This Study identifies what needs to happen to water supply infrastructure and management in the region to deliver sustainable water supplies for our urban communities to 2059. This unique regional approach has gone on to receive state and federal recognition as well as a series of engineering excellence awards. The Study identified activities in three areas

• collaborative work among Councils in the area of best practice with a particular focus on reducing demand for water

• emergency works such as the pipeline for Lake Cargelligo and Orange • infrastructure such as Lake Rowlands, a network of pipes and smaller water

storages in the region Centroc has assisted both Lachlan and Orange in pursuing funding for their respective pipelines. Lachlan has been successful in this regard and the outlook for Orange is positive. Work has begun on best practice in water supply management in the region where members have contributed over $50,000 to instigate a best practice program which also has over $50,000 of State and Federal funding to progress. The objective of the program is to ensure all water utilities achieve best practice by collaboratively engaging experts and capitalising on the expertise within the Centroc Group. An application has been made to the Federal Government under the Strengthening Basin Communities Program Grant for $800,000 to progress this program. Centroc has also commenced seeking funding from both the State and Federal Governments for the infrastructure components.

The water security study has progressed significantly with the procurement of $790,000 under the Federal Strengthening Basin Communities Program for the Carbon+ Study, which identifies the carbon cost of the water security infrastructure and ways in which this can be reduced or offset. This project is underway and will considerably strengthen the environmental aspects of this unique regional project.

Lachlan CMA Awards

Web page under development

Health Workforce Committee Report Jennifer Bennett

Chairperson Cr John Farr Cabonne Council Sponsoring General Manager Ms Carissa Bywater Forbes Shire Council Health is considered to be one of the main issue areas of the Centroc Group of Councils and their members. The Centroc Health Workforce Committee has continued to lobby for the retention and improvement of health services in the region. There has been an increase in activity by the Group over the past 12 months. Recognising that health workforce is the responsibility of State and Federal governments, the focus for the year has been the development of an advocacy tool to develop programming to attract and retain health workforce. Key agencies in the region were invited to become part of a steering committee to drive the project where elected representatives from member Councils formed the balance of the group. These agencies were:

• The Greater Western Area Health Service (GWAHS) • The NSW Central West Division of General Practice (NSW CWDGP) • The Rural Doctors Network (RDN) • GP Logic • The Department of Education and Training • The Orange Aboriginal Medical Service • Charles Sturt University

This group developed a health workforce matrix which identified what was being achieved in the region to attract and retain health workforce and the gaps. A web based portal with associated marketing advice was identified as the first priority for the region. Funding was sought at the Centroc Summit in 2009 and subsequently the Department of Industry and Investment agreed to provide 50% for this project. A presentation to the Board in May provided advice on the look feel and next steps required for the website and its marketing. The Board resolved to progress to implementation.

Telecommunications Project Report Michael Milston and Jenny Bennett The Telecommunications Project’s objective is to secure funding and government commitment to the provision of long-term regional telecommunications infrastructure, products and services that will ensure the continued viability of Central NSW as a dynamic region capable of competing on the world stage. Sponsoring General Manager Garry Styles Orange City Council Team Leader Michael Milston Orange City Council Principles of the Telecommunications Project Strategic Plan Centroc recognises that without a full suite of broadband and associated internet access products across the region there will be significant drawbacks to the region’s ability to progress. These drawbacks can be summarised as: Educational opportunities will be limited by unavailability of access to online courses; external students (distance education) will be disadvantaged; access to information for research requires broadband access/speed; video conferencing over the web Business development (new and existing) will be influenced such as business development decision-making; ability to run business at international standards; ability to conduct online business (eg finance and purchasing, up-to-date commodity prices, video conferencing); lose competitive advantage (businesses will relocate to centres with current internet access standards); health and medical services now rely heavily on internet access Psychological impact of the perception that the rest of the world is using technology we cannot access; feeling of being left behind; increases inequities across the region where some have and some don't have broadband access; Government not listening The inability of communicating effectively will slow the development of good governance, regional development, shared experiences covering geographic distance and access to the country/world market; eg community activities can benefit from broader participation in special interest group (LandCare), community initiative planning and access for retired and mobility impaired communities. Lifestyle expectations for population relocation - poor access to internet deters tree-changers from coming to Central NSW. It is further recognised that having internet access does bring with it challenges for social capital development and community cohesion. While there are many positives such as broader participation by special interest groups, access for mobility impaired groups, etc, there are challenges: for example, children can 'type' better but social skills suffer; more time wasted on the internet (especially at work); local practical skills (eg trades) suffer as young people aim for IT skills; the accuracy and authenticity of information is questionable.

Strategies 1. Develop an up-to-date understanding of the regional market for

telecommunications both current and future; identifying the various market segments and their product and service requirements

2. Develop a plan to a. Get the community behind the strategy b. Enlist the support of key government agencies and c. Seek corporate strategic partners

3. Research the available and emerging technology and concomitant Infrastructure needed to provide a service to the various market segments and provide a fast link to outside world (eg capital cities etc)

4. Develop a lobbying process which a. Exposes the inequities in the current system b. Determines the level of commitment from the community and regional

government agencies c. gains commitment from Federal Government

5. Identify and where appropriate allocate the funding necessary to a. Research metro-compatible infrastructure b. Pay for human resources to implement the plan and/or apply to

Government for funding to undertake a above c. Undertake a study of market capacity d. Develop new technologies

Actions to 2009/2010 Lobbying to position the region as early as possible in the National Broadband Network. Centroc has met with Federal representatives as well as representatives of the new NBNCo. Based on advice from these meetings, Centroc updated its linkage paper between its 2006 audit of broad band needs and the Fibre to the Premises platform of the ALP. This has been co-funded by the Central NSW Area Consultative Committee and the Central West Regional Development Board, now Central West Regional Development Australia.

This paper will provide help inform carriers, the State and Federal Governments regarding broadband needs in Central NSW. $20,000 has been set aside for the development for a Local Environment Plan to provide support to the NBN roll out in this region. Centroc has also been requested to present to State House of Representatives Committees on the issue.

Environmental Sustainability Report Rachael Young That’s a Good Idea! and Climate eXchange working to reduce the ecological footprint of Centroc councils. Sponsoring GM Sustainability Programs Manager Peter Vlatko Rachael Young Young Council Hosted by Bathurst Regional Council

Climate Adaptation Officer That's a Good Idea! Project Officer Elisabeth Bastian Catriona McKenzie Hosted by Lithgow Council Hosted by Bathurst Regional Council Position now concluded.

This is Centroc’s fourth year reporting on environmental sustainability with the flagship program That’s a Good Idea! operating for just over 3 years and due to finish in December. Centroc has expanded our programming to include climate adaptation in a new program called “That's a Good Idea! Climate Adaptation”. Over the past 12 months there have been a number of excellent activities rolled out through That's a Good Idea! and Climate Adaptation focusing on sustainability, resilience and organisational change as detailed below.

NSW Environmental Trust That's A Good Idea! That's a Good Idea! is a program that contains a number of smaller initiatives within it focused on three key areas - Composting; mentoring and capacity building for council staff; and improving the environmental performance of councils. The NSW Environmental Trust through their Urban Sustainability Program has funded this program until March 2011 with a total budget of $486,260. This last year has seen the program submit its fourth progress report to the Trust with the final report due early in 2011. Feedback from the Trust is positive and they are happy with the program and the outcomes being achieved.

The previous 12 months have seen some changes for the environment staff. In November 2009 Catriona McKenzie joined the That's a Good Idea! program to fill in the project officer role vacated by Rachael Young who became the Sustainability Programs Manager. Catriona left Centroc in June 2010 and this position has not been filled, instead the work was parcelled up and contracted out to experienced consultants allowing the project to continue working to schedule and budget.

Some of the excellent initiatives that have been run through this program include:

The Weather Report – is now up to its tenth edition and it is distributed in both hard and soft copy to local and state government staff as well as a number of private and community organisations. The Weather Report has received excellent feedback the most recent from Professor David Karoly

from the University of Melbourne and a member of the IPCC. Recently, all editions were republished in a bound format for the Summit at the Mount.

Sustainability Calendar – This year the Energy Olympics were released and the That's a Good Idea! KeepCups (plastic reusable coffee cups) that are designed to replace our usage of disposable coffee cups at cafes. Extra cups have been ordered and utilised by Wellington, Parkes, Orange, Bathurst and Dubbo. Several cafes around the region have also ordered these cups for regular patrons. The icon produced earlier in the program has been used for this activity.

TasteWaste for the second year is linked with Waste to Art (through NetWaste) and That's a Good Idea! is a local sponsor of local community and school prizes and workshops. That's a Good Idea! TasteWaste funding allowed Cabonne, Forbes, Lachlan, Oberon, Orange, Parkes, Weddin councils to participate more fully in this program. This year we awarded prizes to local entrants as well and the Centroc Awards were presented to:

o Manisha Perry for "Wedding Dress" - Lachlan Category Primary Functional;

o Peter Chapman for "The Chase" - Cabonne Overall Winner Category Building/Sculpture;

o Animals On Bikes Winner Category Building/Sculpture 3 Dimensional;

o Middleton Public School for "Blossom" Winner Category Building/Sculpture 2 Dimensional;

o Animals On Bikes Overall Winner Category Building/Sculpture;

Compost Cook-Off – this project has been very active this year with a large number of activities happening as the project is now in its final phase of ‘Grow your own Compost’ Kits where community events and sustainability expos are used to highlight the benefits of composting to backyard gardeners using a combination of information and a small package of biologically active compost. To date approximately 1450 kits have been given away at over 15 different events. Two composting workshops for the community were also held and over 40 people have learnt about building and managing a backyard compost heap.

For the final stage of the program we have partnered with NetWaste and the Backyard Compost Cook Off is now well underway. Councils were given the opportunity to work with Centroc and NetWaste for a supported home composting program in their Shire. Six councils are participating; Cabonne, Dubbo, Lithgow, Lachlan, Parkes and Weddin Councils. Staff and keen community members were provided with training on how to run home composting workshops; provided with all the promotional materials they would need to run these workshops. All councils have scheduled workshops for the near future and several have been already been run with success.

The next and final stage of this project is to hold the Cook-Off where community members who have participated in the program will be invited to submit their compost for judging and the opportunity to win excellent prizes.

Mentoring and Capacity building – This program has been carried out in its entirety over the past 12 months. Careful budgeting meant that this activity could be expanded to include a tailored individual mentoring program for five staff across the region. This mentoring program has five mentees matched to five mentors. The partners are listed below:

Mentees Mentors Francois Van Der Berg, Manager Environmental & Development Services Lachlan Shire Council

Chris Gray GEMS Pty Ltd

John Nyman, Natural Resources Officer Parkes Shire Council

Les Robinson Enabling Change

Deborah McGrath, Corporate Planning & Communications Officer Lithgow City Council

Hazel Storey The Storey Agency

Paul O’Brien, Director Environmental Services Blayney Shire Council

Peter Davies UTS Centre for Local Gov.

Kira-Lee Foster, Trainee Health & Building Inspector Young Shire Council

Grahame Collier T Issues Consultancy

This project is nearing completion and has been an excellent experience for all involved. Much has been learned and any future mentoring programs will benefit from the Centroc experiences. The coordination and delivery of this program is being managed by a highly skilled consultant. Our final workshop is to be held on October 13th and a final report with case studies will be completed from there.

Monitoring and Evaluation – work has commenced on the compilation of the monitoring and evaluation report for the final report for this program. This work is being completed by a highly experienced consultant and will be completed by January 2011.

CLIMATE Adaptation This priority is a challenging one to meet under the current fluid policy environment at the state, federal and global level. In order to cut through the media hype and the jargon of climate science a number of initiatives have been commenced. Centroc was successful in gaining $735,000 funding from the NSW Environmental Trust’s Urban Sustainability Program. In order to aid project completion in February 2010, Elisabeth Bastian joined the team as the Climate Adaptation Officer for this Project. There are initiatives from the That's a Good Idea! program that will flow through to this new program as well as several sizable new activity areas.

The Weather Report – is now up to its tenth edition and focuses on providing Central NSW with regionally specific information about climate change; providing a simple and concise discussion of climate science as well as providing commentary on other topical climate issues. From Edition 12 onwards this activity will be funded by the Climate Adaptation Project.

Climate Risk Assessment – this activity is being undertaken in partnership with the LGSA, StateWide Mutual and the Centroc Enterprise

Risk Management (ERM) and Sustainability Teams. The aim of this program is to produce a module that will fit into Centroc’s ERM program and provide specific climate risk advice to this region that will build on the work being completed by the LGSA and StateWide in this regard. Centroc was successful in gaining extra funding of $10,500 to engage Echelon to complete the work in partnership with the combined Centroc teams. Work has commenced with the first workshop to scope the nature of the activity and brief Echelon on the project has occurred and council specific work with StateWide has commenced in some instances.

Regional Resilience Strategy– this activity was completed with great success in the first half of 2010. The Regional Resilience strategy is providing Centroc members with an excellent framework for building sustainability and resilience into their communities and council operations. Work towards the Summit to be reported against next year was also substantial.

Shiny Halo Blog – The Shiny Halo Blog underpins all the activities in this climate adaptation program and forms a critical element of the communication strategy as it allows Centroc to communicate directly with Central NSW’s online community. This blog will drive activity in the Tree Exchange program and also enhance local knowledge of activities being undertaken by a range of groups within the community. To date the blog has received over 5000 individual visitors and over 200 comments and actions. Actions posted on the blog will result in trees being planted across the region,

Carbon Expos – this project has been undertaken in partnership with Lachlan Catchment Management Authority and involves taking the key elements of a sustainability expo (information on climate change and natural resource management, sustainable living and gardening, renewable energy and critically local suppliers of these products and services) to urban centres across the Lachlan Catchment Area. These expos are targeted on towns that do not usually have access to this type of information or expertise – or may not be aware of what is available in their district. To date, the Expos have participated in the Young Sustainable Living Expo; Condobolin Show, Parkes Show, Grenfell Show, Hillston Show and West Wyalong Sustainable Living Expo. Over 800 people have visited the expo and the feedback has been positive to date with some changes being incorporated as this program progresses. Future activity will involve major expos in Cowra and Forbes and 3 smaller expos likely to be linked to shows in the upper catchment in locations such as Blayney, Boorowa and Crookwell/Gunning.

Monitoring and Evaluation – a significant component of this project involves the development of an integrated Monitoring and Evaluation framework in partnership with the Western Research Institute. Major activities are reported directly by WRI and these will be combined to build a comprehensive picture of the project’s success against pre-determined targets.

Upcoming Activities – work is due to commence on a business sustainability and resilience program as well as the tree exchange program that links closely with the Shiny Halo Blog. Further regionally specific climate change information will be developed and released as it becomes available.

Netwaste Annual Report 2009/2010

Annual Report 2009/2010

NetWaste Member Councils Bathurst Regional Council Forbes Shire Council Bland Shire Council Gilgandra Shire Council Blayney Shire Council Lithgow City Council Blue Mountains City Council Lachlan Shire Council Bogan Shire Council Mid-Western Regional Council Bourke Shire Council Narromine Shire Council Brewarrina Shire Council Oberon Council Broken Hill City Council Orange City Council Cabonne Council Parkes Shire Council Central Darling Shire Council Walgett Shire Council Cobar Shire Council Warren Shire Council Coonamble Shire Council Warrumbungle Shire Council Cowra Shire Council Weddin Shire Council Dubbo City Council Wellington Council

Location and coverage of NetWaste Member Councils

Executive Officer’s Report 2009-10 has once again been a busy year for NetWaste and member Councils, with the accomplishment of many worthwhile projects. Some of the highlights for the group during this time have been: • A successful 2010 Waste To Art Competition, with the regional exhibition held at

Menindee in May, showcasing over 160 artworks from 20 NetWaste Councils; and • Economies of scale benefits for Councils through involvement in regional contracts

including the Collection of Scrap Metal, Processing of Garden Organics and the Regional Domestic Waste and Recycling Contract, the establishment of a joint contract in partnership with NIRW for the Collection of Used Oil; and

• Ongoing Business Waste Audit project which involves working with local businesses in the region to help them improve their waste management activities, and;

• Collection and recycling of e-waste in partnership with Sims Metal Management, which saw 14 Councils divert significant volumes of computers, printers etc from landfill; and

• Development of the Small Landfill Management Guide. This much needed resource is an excellent guide for the operators of small unlicensed landfills and transfer stations; and

• The establishment of permanent facilities for the collection and storage of Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) moved a step closer and the annual HHW campaign was held involving 14 Councils; and

• The NetWaste Councils again benefited from quarterly forum meetings throughout the year, including visits of inspection in November 2009, by a small group of NetWaste Councils to a range of waste facilities including the Bathurst & Blaxland WMF, Sims E-Recycling Plant in Sydney, the Wingecarribee Resource Recovery Centre and the Groundswell City to Soil project in Goulburn; Landfill Operator Training was held in Narromine over 2 days, with 18 NetWaste Council staff benefiting from the opportunity to attend such a practical and informative session locally and

• Regional Domestic Waste Audits project which resulted in among other things, the development of a valuable modelling tool for Councils to determine waste streams and disposal behaviour.

Partnerships have continued to remain strong throughout the year, not only with member Councils and Centroc but also with organisations such as drumMUSTER, ChemClear and other regional waste groups through RENEW NSW Forums. Our relationship with the DECCW has also remained strong, and we are very appreciative of the sponsorship and support provided. The Environmental Learning Adviser, Susann Clarke held over 106 environmental education workshops in the NetWaste region for 2009-2010, and has worked with a wide range of our Councils. Susann has continued the rollout of the Education Program for the Joint Waste and Recycling Contract and conducted waste audits for businesses in the aim to reduce waste in this sector. The weaving workshops held in conjunction with the 2010 Waste to Art Exhibition, ELF Community Garden and indigenous programs have all been initiatives of our Environmental Learning Advisor. The NetWaste Projects Coordinator, Kristy Cosier has been working on a variety of projects over the last 12 months, with a particular focus on regional tenders and

contracts including the new Scrap Metal Contract the Collection and Processing of kerbside recyclables for some of our western Councils including Narromine, Dubbo, Wellington and Gilgandra and the Organics Processing Contract. NetWaste and NIRW have also together trialled the approach of establishing a joint contract for the Collection of Used Oil. This was a lengthy process but one which has beneficial outcomes for the parties involved. The NetWaste Support Officer, Gabrielle Ryan provided significant support to the Projects Coordinator and the Learning Advisor, who both acknowledge the important role she provides. Gabrielle played an invaluable part in the early organisation of the 2010 Waste 2 Art exhibition, with the regional exhibition held in Menindee being the most challenging yet. Gabrielle provides the administrative support to NetWaste and its staff, including processing financials and organising meetings, agendas and minutes. Gabrielle finishing up in June 2010 to pursue her own business interests and has been replaced by Gillian Kearney, who is capably filling the new Project/ Administrations Officers role. Gillian comes to the group with an excellent background in managing community and other projects. The commitment and support shown by our member Councils has again been outstanding, and significantly contributed to our 2009-2010 achievements. I’m very appreciative of the time, knowledge and resources that our members have shared not only with NetWaste, but with other Councils. The continued success of the group supports the confidence of our sponsor in maintaining support for this collaborative model of waste/resource management. Our Steering Committee and Forum members have again provided a valued contribution towards development of the many waste and resource management initiatives undertaken by the group. The year ahead looks very exciting, and can only enhance the delivery of important waste and resource management projects that benefit our wide and diverse communities. There has been an increasing emphasis on the need for Councils to divert organics from landfill and the groups organics projects will aim to insure that such material is better utilised as a resource, NetWaste has dedicated significant resources toward this focus over the next three (3) years. I look forward to working with the group on the many projects which lay ahead. Orange City Council has continued to be an excellent sponsor and I wish to acknowledge their continued hosting of NetWaste and invaluable support provided to the group.

Steven Campbell NetWaste Executive Officer

Vision: To establish a waste management model to ensure cost effective environmental best practice for participating NetWaste Councils Aims: The aims of NetWaste are to:

• Promote a collaborative, cooperative and cost effective environmental best practice for participating NetWaste councils

• Develop effective educational strategies • Identify projects as identified, as part of environmental management planning

processes. The NetWaste Model:

NetWaste is a collaborative environmental management project sponsored by the NSW Department of Environment, Climate Change and Water (DECCW) and the Central West (CENTROC) and Orana Regional Organisation of Councils (OROC), located in the central and western regions of New South Wales, Australia. The region comprises 28 councils, covering a total area of 317,942 square kilometres and supports a population of more than 300,000 people. The total NetWaste area represents over one third of the State of New South Wales.

This collaborative approach provides NetWaste with the opportunity to share resources and knowledge, and coordinate planning at regional and sub-regional levels. At the same time the NetWaste model acknowledges the benefits of individual councils retaining control over management issues. In addition, consultation and involvement of community and industry in the planning process have been key factors in the implementation of an increasing number of successful programs and projects.

NetWaste Staff: Steven Campbell, Executive Officer Kristy Cosier, Projects Co-ordinator (On Maternity leave May 2010-January 2011) Sue Clarke, Environmental Learning Adviser Gabrielle Ryan, Support Officer (Resigned May 2010) Gillian Kearney, Administrative/Project Officer (June 2010-June 2011)

NetWaste Steering Committee Representatives on the 2009/10 NetWaste Steering Committee included: Steven Campbell (Chair), Parkes Shire Council Chris Brook, Narromine Shire Council Steve Clayton, Dubbo City Council Antony Cullen-Ward, Bathurst Regional Council Wayne Davis, Orange City Council Mike McCulloch, Dubbo City Council Paul Bennett, Forbes Shire Council Stephen Sykes, Orange City Council Julian Geddes, MidWestern Regional Council Shane Wilson, Weddin Shire Council David Neeves, Gilgandra Shire Council NetWaste Steering Committee meetings are generally held on a quarterly basis, with the following meetings held in 2009/10: 11 September 2009 Orange City Council 11 December 2009 Dubbo City Council 19 March 2010 Orange City Council 11 June 2010 Dubbo City Council NetWaste Forum The NetWaste Forum consists of representatives from each of the member Councils. Representatives assist with the strategic direction of NetWaste, through the sharing of knowledge and information in the area of waste and resource management. NetWaste Executive Forum meetings are held on a quarterly basis, at various locations throughout the region. During 2009/2010 meetings were held as detailed below: 28 August 2009 Parkes Shire Council 27 November 2009 Cowra Shire Council 26 February 2010 Bathurst Regional Council 28 May 2010 Lachlan Shire Council RENEW NSW Forums: NetWaste is an active member of the RENEW NSW group, with the Projects Coordinator, Environmental Learning Advisor and Executive Officer attending the quarterly meetings and other events as appropriate. The forums provide a great opportunity for the regional waste groups to meet with each other and DECCW, learn from each other’s experiences and share ideas and keep updated on the waste management industry. Meetings of the regional waste groups were held as follows: NetWaste Host Council: During 2009/2010, Orange City Council continued to host the management of NetWaste, including administration, staffing, finances and contractual obligations.

NetWaste wishes to thank Orange City Council once again for their continued support and assistance. Regional Projects: Milestone 1 (2009/10) Processing of Garden Organics, Wood and Timber Contract Lovick Contracting held the contract for the Processing of Garden Organics and Wood and Timber, which expires in early July 2010. Seventeen (17) NetWaste Councils participate in this contract, with approximately 63,923 m³ of garden organics, wood and timber processed in 2009/10. The chipped product is used for a variety of purposes including landfill cover and mulch by both Councils and residents. An open tender process was coordinated on behalf of 16 NetWaste in mid 2010, with the preferred tenderer being awarded to Haulaway Recycling, who commenced the new contract in July 2010. Regional Domestic Waste and Recycling Contract

The regional domestic waste and recycling contract between Blayney Shire, Cabonne, Forbes Shire, Orange City and Parkes Shire Councils is serviced by JR Richards and Sons. This regional approach has already seen significant benefits, with Bathurst Regional Council also introducing a kerbside recycling service in December 2007, with the material delivered to the MRF in Orange. Detailed reports, customer service call centre, infrastructure consolidation and an educational strategy are other on-going benefits for the Councils. During 2009/10, 9339 tonnes of recyclable materials was diverted from landfill by the six Councils identified above.

This recycling effort of the six (6) Councils identified previously, has saved the approximate equivalent of 25,215 m3 of landfill space, 1125 cars permanently removed from the road, the equivalent energy savings from households, 62 Olympic swimming pools of water and 4658 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions.

The fourth year of the supporting Education Program continued to build upon and reinforce the previous educational initiatives which included focusing on the importance of waste minimisation and compliance with the recycling collection service. This was provided through schools and community engagement covering the following topics: Environmental, economic and social benefits of waste minimisation and recycling; how to use the collection services correctly, what can and can’t be recycled, what happens to recycled materials, tips on recycling more effectively, how to be a ‘Smart Shopper, how to compost successfully and the benefits to the environment and how to worm farm successfully and the benefits to the environment. EnviroCom Australia on behalf of JR Richards continue to work in close collaboration with the NetWaste Environmental Learning Adviser to develop and deliver the education program. A total of 2448 students and community group members attended 106 workshops and presentations. We continue to ask participants to complete evaluation forms so that we are able to assess progress and value of the education program.

‘Caught On Composting” has been a popular workshop with schools.

In addition to the School and Community Education Program, the NetWaste Business Waste Reduction Program continues. Outcomes to date include trial of a commercial Bokashi Bin at Molong Hospital; Education Program for Jemalong Retirement Village in Forbes; Education Program for SPARS Supermarket staff in Molong; trial of recycle bins in motel rooms at Parkes International Motel in Parkes and improved process for managing butt littering problem at the motel; Orange TAFE Education Program. Scrap Metal Contract Sims Metal Management again secured the NetWaste contract in August last year, with 22 Councils participating again this time. During 2009/10, a total of 5,154 tonnes of scrap metal was collected across the region. The scrap metal contract offers significant benefits to the participating Councils, particularly for those in the western regions where it is often difficult to secure services due to location.

Agsafe Programs NetWaste member Councils participate in the drumMUSTER program to recover non-returnable farm chemical containers throughout the region. Inspection of drums is undertaken either by trained Council staff or community groups, with drums collected for processing. In 2009/2010 130,880 drums were collected in the NetWaste region and returned under the drumMUSTER program. Provision of services continues to improve across the region, with a number of new compounds established and staff training taking place to maximise recovery of these materials. Agricultural and veterinary chemicals were also collected throughout the region under the ChemClear program. Over 110 litres/kg was collected during the reporting period, with a regional collection undertaken in the NetWaste region

Collection of Used Oil Joint Contract NetWaste and NIRW undertook a joint tendering process for the collection of used oil (with optional collection of used oil filters and used oil containers) in November 2008. Following a lengthy process, a joint contract is now in place with Transpacific Industries involving thirty (30) Councils in total across the two groups. The joint arrangement has resulted in a more reliable and regular services for the participating Councils and accurate collation of data regarding diversion of material from landfill. During the reporting period, a total of 124,700 litres of used oil was removed from the environment and recycled. C&D Crushing Tender NetWaste Councils undertook a regional tender process in 2007, for the processing of Concrete and Demolition (C and D) materials, however no contract was awarded due to the cost involved and requirement to guarantee a certain volume for processing. It was however decided to revisit the possibility of a regional arrangement at a later date when Councils could address the issues that were identified, with NetWaste about to undertake a regional tender process on behalf of seven (7) Councils. It is intended that a one-off processing will take place in 2010/11.

Milestone 2 (2009/10) : Organics Reuse Project Models In recognition of the role organic material has in the production of greenhouse gas emissions when disposed to landfill, NetWaste identified this project as a priority over the 2009-2012 period, with reporting period focus on identifying existing organics reuse options that could be applied to a range of Council scenarios. To achieve this, NetWaste hosted an Organics Reuse Workshop in August 2009 which showcased a range of existing projects on a variety of scales – the simple concept was that each Council and scenario is different and the group wanted to hear about as many ideas as possible. Guest speakers presented on a range of topics including home composting, large scale composting on commercial scale, simple compost trials at landfills and tips on tendering and contracts when considering introduction of an organics collection service. A Discussion Paper was produced following the workshop, which also provided recommendations on the way forward for NetWaste, with the focus on 2 primary areas – home composting and undertaking trials at landfills to produce a beneficial product from chipped green waste (Tarp-up and Bake). These 2 focus areas are about to be rolled out, with 3 Councils involved in the Tarp-Up and Bake approach, with Bathurst Regional Council acting in a mentoring role, and six Councils involved in the home composting program. Landfill Closure Procedures (Model Landfill EMP) This project will be undertaken in 2010/11 as focus has been on finalisation of the Small Landfill Management Guide and development of the template LEMP for small, unlicensed landfills by Impact Environmental Consulting. The final report for this is expected in late August 2010. Milestone 4: Tyre Reuse Project Narromine Shire Council has agreed to become involved in this project. The Tyre Reuse project will involve building a retaining wall at the Waste Management Centre in Narromine, as a model that other councils can view, in the hope that other councils may consider using a similar approach where possible. This project should be completed early in the New Year.

Milestone 5: Council Sustainability Action Plans NetWaste secured funding from the Environmental Trust on behalf of eight (8) Councils in the NetWaste Central subregion to assist with development of a regional Sustainability Action Plan (eSAP), with NetWaste also contributing financially. NetWaste is acting a coordinative role for this in recognition of the increasing links between waste management and all areas of sustainability as Council management of issues is not focused on just one consideration (e.g. financial). Ecolens were engaged to undertake development of the regional plan to ensure it meets the requirements of the participating Councils and the funding body, with the intention being the plan highlights the regional cooperation and issues common to all, but also provide the flexibility to include local priority actions. As part of the project, a template is also being developed which can be applied to the remaining three (3) NetWaste subregions. Milestone 6: Environmental Education Programs Environmental Education Programs with schools and community groups are ongoing. Examples of projects for the 2009- 10 period include:

• The monthly radio segment on ABC continues. Topics discussed include SWAP Parties, Permaculture, and “Love Food Hate Waste” Program, E Waste collection, Litter and Recycling updates.

• Ongoing Waste Workshops and presentations offered in support of Council services.

• Development of Compost Kits in partnership with CENTROC for promotion of home composting.

• Ongoing involvement in the CSU Teacher Trainee and TAFE Children’s Services Teacher Education Program

• Growing requests for NetWaste involvement in an ever increasing number of ‘Sustainability” Events across the region.

• Continued Involvement and promotion of the Orange Community Garden. This year represented the 5th year of operation for the Community Garden Group.

• Permaculture Design Course – organised and conducted through the Environmental Learning Facility (ELF) in Orange.

• Orange Waste Weavers Group – This group has been organised in partnership with the Department of Community Services and the Indigenous West Weaving Group.

Produce from the Permaculture Community Garden at the ELF Orange

Milestone 7: Event Waste Management NetWaste maintains a major focus on the Australian National Field Days Event that is held annually at Orange in October. We have worked with the organisers over the last four years and up until this year have been actively involved during the Field Days in the monitoring of bin usage and placement of bins. NetWaste was not able to be involved this year but the Field Day organising committee were committed to continuing with the waste management approach that we have implemented in past years as there has been a gradual increase in the amount of recycling that has been collected and a subsequent cost saving. Table 1: Volume of material collected at ANFD in Orange Year General Waste Recycling 2006 5460 kgs 3110kgs 2007 5500kgs 2140kgs 2008 6420kgs 5480kgs 2009 9060kg 2620kg The result for the last field day was disappointing but reinforced the need for regular monitoring of bin use and placement during the event. NetWaste staff have previously taken on this role and even though it has been discussed with Field Day staff, the importance of this crucial element in the management of this was not acknowledged until after the event. Milestone 8: Waste to Art Exhibition Twenty councils from the NetWaste Region (71 %) participated in the 2009/2010 Sims Metal Waste To Art competition and exhibition. This year represented the sixth year of Waste To Art in the NetWaste region. The 160 artworks displayed at the Regional exhibition this year represents only a small number of the total entries into local Waste To Art exhibitions across the region. There were approximately 900 artworks entered this year. Central Darling Council hosted the Regional Exhibition and the exhibition in Menindee was an outstanding success with over 400 people visiting the exhibition. The number of positive Evaluation sheets and completed People’s Choice Award Forms is testament to the popularity of this program. A supporting Education program, which was conducted throughout the exhibition was also well supported and ensures that the waste message intended was not missed by the visiting school and community groups. Significant support from the indigenous community in Menindee also highlighted the ability of the NetWaste to engage the community in discussion about waste issues. As always, a selection of artworks from the Regional Exhibition were photographed and enlarged for a travelling photographic display that is presently moving around the NetWaste region.

‘Poochasaurus” winner of The Community “Fragility” By Tom Buckland, Orange 3D Category created by Mudgee Life Skills Community Group.

Milestone 9: Sustainable Farms Project Funding is not allocated to this program any longer but NetWaste continues to work with Catchment Management Authorities within the NetWaste region on School Farm Planning Days and Eco School Days when ever possible. The NetWaste Environmental Learning Adviser supports these activities within the Educational Program budget allocation Milestone 10: Illegal Dumping Program Bourke Shire Adam Street Project - NetWaste has provided funding for this illegal dumping project. The area was a noted “hotspot” for illegal dumping and funding was used to have this area cleaned up, signposted and the area regenerated with the planting of native trees and grasses. The final stage to this project will involve Bourke High School Students, who have expressed an interest in undertaking several sculptures and should commence early in the New Year.

Before

After

Other Projects: Small Landfill Management Guide The participating Councils identified a need to provide support and advice to staff entering into waste management roles across the region that are responsible for unlicensed landfills and often come with little hands on experience. Impact Environmental Consulting were engaged to develop a resource in response to this need, with the project undertaken in direct consultation with a small working group to ensure the resource was beneficial and practical. The resource was finalised in December 2009 and covered topics such as planning for a new landfill, operating an existing landfill, converting a small landfill to a transfer station and alternatives to small landfills in rural communities. The Guide has been extremely well received by not only the NetWaste Councils but also other regional waste groups in both NSW and QLD – a presentation was delivered at the 2010 Waste Conference with strong feedback received on the benefits and practicality of such a document. Due to the benefits, the group is now finalising Stage 2, which is development of a template LEMP for small, unlicensed landfills and applying this template to actual scenarios at Council landfills to ensure its suitability. E-Waste Recycling program NetWaste and Sims Metal Management have again partnered for the fourth year in a row to offer an e-waste recycling service throughout the region, with the campaign extended to include collection of both computers and peripherals and televisions in recognition of the increasing number of units being disposed to landfill. This trend is due to not only the changeover in television signal from analogue to digital, but also the rapid rate of change in available technology.

In 2010, an e-waste collection campaign was coordinated from April-June 2010, with sixteen (16) NetWaste Councils participating. NetWaste developed and funded TV commercials to promote the service to residents in the participating Council areas, with SIMS Metal Management providing financial assistance for the dismantling of e-waste. This 3 month campaign resulted in 21.414 tonnes of E-waste material being collected, diverted from landfill and recycled: Discussions are currently underway, regarding the roll-out of the ‘National Television and Computer Product Stewardship scheme’, which is a Federal Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) Scheme, currently under development. NetWaste and the other regional waste groups will be participating in discussions regarding establishment and implementation of the scheme in regional areas, with there being significant interest

from local Councils, who are currently bearing the costs for disposal and/or recycling of these items. Research – Alternative Waste Bin sizes NetWaste Councils identified the need to research other Council experiences in offering smaller waste bin sizes to their residents, such as 140 litre as opposed to the standard 240 litre. This project is still being completed, with input being sought from other regional waste groups, NetWaste Councils and also Contractors on the benefits and disadvantages with offering the alternative size, including community response to such alternatives. A discussion paper will be produced on these matters which will be available to interested Councils and other regional waste groups. Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) project NetWaste has been undertaking a lengthy investigation into the feasibility and implications of establishing permanent facilities at landfills to accept household hazardous chemicals on an ongoing basis. Following development of a Study into the matter, an Implementation report was finalised in November 2008 which outlined a strategic way forward for the group. The process revealed a number of implications with permanent facilities such as licensing thresholds and staff training, with the decision made to proceed with addressing priority, low risk items such as batteries, fluorescent tubes and gas bottles and holding an annual collection campaign throughout the region to collect the remaining items. The annual campaign was coordinated in November/December 2009, with Chemsal engaged to undertake the required works on behalf of fourteen (14) NetWaste Councils. Collections were held over 2 weeks in total at 15 collection centres across the region. In total, 278 customers used the service, with 8.7 tonnes of material diverted from landfill. Paint was by far the most commonly delivered material, followed by General Liquid Pesticides, General Household Chemicals and Hydrocarbons and Fuels. Sixteen Councils have registered interest in participating in the next HHW annual campaign, intended to be coordinated in April/May 2011 Regional Domestic Waste Audits The five (5) Councils participating in the existing Regional Domestic Waste and Recycling Contract (Orange, Blayney, Parkes, Forbes and Cabonne) and Bathurst Regional Council have been involved in this project which is focused on linking community demographics to waste generation and disposal behaviour. The project has now been completed and included a range of different elements, namely Community

Attitude Surveys, visual Bin Audits and development of a predictive modelling tool. The modelling tool has been drafted and is intended to be a resource for Councils to gain an insight into the waste streams and disposal behaviour of their communities based on their demographics. It is recognised the predictive model has been developed based on a limited sample size, thus would benefit from additional work completed using the same methodology in other regions. Regional Tender – Collection and processing of kerbside recyclables A regional tender process was coordinated on behalf of Dubbo City, Wellington and Narromine Shire Councils in mid-late 2009 for the collection and processing of kerbside recyclables. Following a lengthy evaluation process, Dubbo and Narromine resolved to proceed with the introduction of a service, with the contract awarded to JR Richards and Sons. The contract provides for the delivery of collected material to a Transfer Station at the Contractors site in Dubbo, with the material to be compacted and transported to Sydney for processing at a regional MRF. Roll-out of the service is being complemented by a comprehensive education program which commenced in June 2010. Collection of the recyclables will commence in early July 2010, with the contract in place for 10 years. NetWaste website The NetWaste staff have been actively updating the NetWaste website to ensure users have access to accurate and up to date information. New sections recently added include: • Contracts and Tenders regarding existing contracts and advertised tenders; • ‘Getting rid of….’ for information on disposing of typically hazardous items such as

chemical drums, used oil and paint, and; • A resource section for users to access previous studies and helpful information on

waste management. The website will be updated on an ongoing basis. to reflect the group’s activities and assist the community with waste management issues.

Attachments:

1. Member Council Participation in Projects 2009-2010 2. Diversion Data (Graphical) 2009-2010 (showing previous performance

Attachment 1: Member Councils Participation The table below provides an overview of the participation of Councils in NetWaste projects for 2009/2010.

Council Garden Organics Contract

Domestic Waste &

Recycling

Scrap Metal Contract

Used Oil Collection Contract

Programmed HHW

collection

2009 E-waste Recycling

Emissions from

landfill

2009 Waste2Art

True Cost of Landfill

Regional Domestic Waste

Audits

Community Sharps Mgmt Project &/or

training Bathurst Bland Blayney Blue Mountains

Bogan Bourke Brewarrina Broken Hill Cabonne Central Darling

Cobar Coonamble Cowra Dubbo Forbes Gilgandra Lachlan Lithgow Mid-Western Narromine Oberon Orange Parkes Walgett Warren Warrumbungle

Weddin Wellington

TOTAL 17 5 21 20 17 14 17 19 14 6 23

KEY Participation

Attachment 2

6160

89969339

833

0

1000

2000

3000

4000

5000

6000

7000

8000

9000

10000

Tonnes Diverted

2007

-08

2008

-09

2009

-10

2010

-11

2010

-11

2011

-12

2012

-13

FY

Tonnes Recyclables Diverted

34839

41799

70887

63923

0

10000

20000

30000

40000

50000

60000

70000

80000

Cubic Metres

2006

-2007

2007

-2008

2008

-2009

2009

-2010

2010

-2011

FY

Cubic Metres of Organics Recovered/Diverted

Cubic m

138,092146,630

176,440

130,880

0

20,000

40,000

60,000

80,000

100,000

120,000

140,000

160,000

180,000

Drums Collected

2006

-07

2007

-08

2008

-09

2009

-10

FY

Number of Drums DrumMuster

Number of Drums

8149

7584

95939189

8952

54715154

0

1000

2000

3000

4000

5000

6000

7000

8000

9000

10000

Tonnes

2003-04

2004-05

2005-06

2006-07

2007-08

2008-09

2009-10

FY

Scrap Metal Recovered

10.6

15.616.9

21.4

0

5

10

15

20

25

Tonnes Diverted

2006

-07

2007

-08

2008

-09

2009

-10

FY

Tonnes E Waste

Tonnes

Central NSW Tourism Year to Date Summary Submitted to Central NSW Councils Jana Pickles, Chair Central NSW Tourism Central NSW Tourism’s focus this year has been on optimising resources available through Tourism NSW’s Regional Partnership Program to influence visitation in the region, and on improving our position to achieve significant positive outcomes in the immediate and long term for our area’s regional tourism industry. This year started off poorly, particularly in regard to some of our local council stakeholder relationships, based primarily on a lack of real collaboration between our executive and those stakeholders. Early in the year, the board addressed these concerns in a number of ways, one of which was to reengage tourism managers, CENTROC executive and other stakeholders in the process of developing a strategic plan that more accurately reflects the common goal of efficiently using available resources to increase tourism to our region. The measures we have taken are showing results that give us great confidence as we head into 2011 about what can be achieved by bringing industry together with local and state government to address the long standing decline in overall regional tourism.

Central NSW Strategic Plan We took a deliberate decision to go back to basics with our strategic plan. Firstly we engaged our tourism managers into the process and allowed them to contribute and comment. We also held discussions with Tourism NSW, Deloitte [who developed the template] and key operators. Everyone agreed with the new focus which is that the primary role of the RTO is to increase visitation to the region. Through the consultative process, we identified a number of activities that would drive visitation which created the basis on which our marketing resources would be allocated. We worked with Tourism Managers and industry to leverage $112,000 of local resources into $224,000 of marketing for the region. While this is a good start and reflects an increased contribution from state government, we share with local councils the goal that we become a Tier One RTO as soon as possible to access a higher level of state government support to increase regional visitation. Here is a brief summary of this year’s marketing initiatives which align with our strategic plan for Central NSW Tourism funding support.

Marketing Initiatives

1. Golf Orange – a new program promoting local courses and accommodation packages to the high spending golf tourist.

2. Education tourism – Dubbo council, in conjunction with industry operators, is targeting schools in NSW based on local historical curriculum based activities aimed at years 9 through to 12.

3. Gateway to Central – Cowra is promoting the Central region’s product and experiences to the Canberra market to encourage weekend and long stay visitation.

4. Condobolin Rodeo – this event continues to grow and we’ve helped the local committee to advertise the event outside the region to attract new visitors.

5. Amazing Country Escapes – we continue to support these boutique properties across Bathurst, Orange and Mudgee as they look to build upon an impressive first year and

to add more experience partners to their offering that targets the luxury weekend market.

6. Warrumbungles cluster - reaching new audiences through the use of technology driven marketing, we are supporting the development of e-brochures and podcasts and usb drives as we look to attract a new younger audience to the region.

7. Orana Arts – a campaign centred on arts and culture, promoted through the use of online media, social media and television. This features over 740 arts practitioners, venues, galleries and exhibition spaces in the Orana Arts region.

Regional Flagship Events Program

This year, our region has six finalists, the highest number of finalists for any single RTO. This achievement represents the diversity of tourism experiences in central NSW and highlights the skills we already have within the region that can be leveraged to effect positive change for the whole area. We look forward to seeing which of the events receive funding from Tourism NSW. Irrespective of the results, to get so many to this stage is exciting and we will now look to integrate these activities into our overall strategic plan. The six finalists from the Central NSW region are Canowindra Balloon Festival - Canowindra Zoo Grooves Festival - Dubbo Huntington Music Festival - Mudgee Sakuri Matsuri Festival - Cowra Narromine Gliding - Narromine Henry Lawson Festival - Grenfell As we approach calendar year end, we also have an encouraging number of finalists at the NSW Tourism Awards, some fantastic product development initiatives underway such as RiverSmart, more cross-regional collaboration, and stronger relationships with Tourism NSW. There is no doubt that we are now in a stronger position to facilitate growth in tourism and, subsequently economic growth for the area we serve. We appreciate the show of faith in the direction our board has taken demonstrated by GMAC commending to its Board that it recommend to members they reinstate funding. We’d like to thank our stakeholders for their input and support throughout the year. Your faith in us has been well placed as evidenced by our year to date activities. We have come a long way in a relatively short period of time, but we are determined to deliver even greater value to all tourism industry stakeholders in our region in the coming years. By creating a sustainable, cost efficient operation and working with all of the vibrant councils, businesses, community groups, and skilled service providers in the region to leverage existing resources and gain higher level of state government support through Tourism NSW, Central NSW Tourism is focussed on attracting more visitors to our region for longer stays from existing, and most importantly, new markets. Jana Pickles Chair Central NSW Tourism October 2010

Weight of Loads Report Owen Johns 1 November 2010 Sponsoring General Manager Allan Dive Wellington Council Team Leader Cr Maurice Simpson, Group Chairman Blayney Shire Council Owen Johns, Group Secretary Wellington Council The past year has been a particularly challenging year for the CENTROC Weight of Loads Group. The CENTROC Weight of Loads Group was formed June 1995 with eleven member Councils. Currently, the Group now has eight members with only five member Councils from the CENTROC participating. A declining Council membership base combined with the falling annual breach income, the financial position of the group could soon be in a precarious situation.

Year 2005/06 2006/07 2007/08 2008/09 2009/10

Breach Income 176431 185586 161628 119436 88617

However based on the 150 breaches recorded over the last 12 months indicates there is still a good reason to belong to a group in order to keep the number of overloads to a minimum. The purpose of the Weight of Loads Groups is to extend the life of Council road assets by monitoring the weight of heavy vehicles using the road network to ensure their compliance with statutory mass limits. The Group also monitors light traffic thoroughfares, bridge load limits and over dimension vehicles (eg B-Doubles). The Group continues to operate with four inspectors in two patrol vehicles distributing their time in each Council area according to the amount contributed by the Council and also performs an educative role with the transport industry. A coloured brochure is available from [email protected] with more detailed information. A Council can request inspectors to patrol specific roads at any given time; otherwise the patrol time is spread in a random manner throughout the Council area. The attached table gives some statistical data for the Group. With the resignation of Cabonne, Coonamble and now Cowra the financial viability of the Group is at risk. As responsible asset managers, all Councils should support a Weight of Loads Group. As a measure of the support for CENTROC Weight of Loads the Roads and Traffic Authority has contributed $24,500 to assist the group balance its budget over the 2009/10 financial year.

Discussions have been held with the Ministers office with regard to a possible solution to the future viability of the Centroc WOL group however a response has not been received to date. The Australian Road Train Association has declared its support for Weight of Loads in the interest of an even playing field for responsible heavy vehicle operators and in the interest of road safety. Statistical Data: Date of formation 1 June 1995 Breach reports issued since 1 September 1995 4780 Reduction in overloading observed after patrols commence 15%

Benefit / Cost ratio 9.4 Annual saving per Member Council (average) $250,000 per Council Intercepts recorded – (previous 12 months) 688 Breaches recorded – (previous 12 months) 150 Current Member Councils • Bathurst

• Blayney • Dubbo • Gilgandra • Mid-Western • Orange • Weddin • Wellington

Centroc OHS/Risk Management Group by Harvey Nicholson/ Charmaine Richey / Sonia Rudd Chair Person Harvey Nicholson Cowra Shire Council Secretary Charmaine Richey Orange City Council Deputy Secretary Maisie Richardson Oberon Council The Centroc OHS/Risk Management Group AGM was held in Bathurst in December 2009 and a new executive was appointed. Change of focus for 2010 The new executive determined that there was a need for the group to change direction and to bring to the agenda more Council focused speakers and items rather than commercially based speakers. Topics for 2010 have covered;

• Formulation of the OHS / Risk Group Constitution • How to manage an ageing workforce • Managing Workers Compensation • Mining activity subsidence and implications for local councils • Regular WorkCover updates

Combined Centroc and Orana Risk Management Group Meetings There was agreement by members that an annual joint meeting would be conducted with the Orana group to facilitate networking and increase the opportunity to share resources and expand on the delivery of projects. The first joint meeting was held in Forbes in June. State Cover’s Manager for Injury Services, Peter Callaghan, was the guest speaker and provided a compelling case for being proactive in the management of workers compensation claims. The meeting was well attended with approximately 30 participants attending from across the Orana and Centroc councils. The remaining Centroc meetings were decentralised with Lithgow, Forbes and Bland Shire Council hosting. While Bland Shire Council is at the extremity of the Centroc group it was rewarded with the highest attendance figures for some time. These decentralised meeting will continue into the future as they provide a vehicle for each host council to showcase their facilities and present initiatives implemented by their council. It is also an opportunity for councils to present issues where they are experiencing difficulty and with the help of the network develop solutions for their council.

Enterprise Risk Management & Climate Change The Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) Program developed by the Centroc ERM alliance is now examining the process of including climate change into ERM framework. With a number of councils in the Centroc region undertaking climate change action planning there is an excellent opportunity to share their common findings through a desk top audit identifying common climate risks across the Centroc councils. Centroc has gained funding of $10,500 from State Wide which will be used to engage Echelon to incorporate climate change into the ERM Program. The details of this program are reported within the Environment Report. “The year ahead” The Centroc OHS / Risk Management Group have started to plan for 2011, and the theme will be ‘The year ahead’. 2011 is going to be a year of preparation for councils to ensure their readiness for the introduction of the National OHS Legislation. The group is formulating training sessions for each of the meetings for 2011 to assist councils ensure they remain compliant. The Centroc OHS / Risk Management Group continue to advance with a high level of professionalism and integrity, through education, networking and a commitment to fellowship.

Regional Training Service and Human Resources Group Report by Sonia Rudd Chairperson Michael Ridge Bland Shire Council Secretary Kathryn Currey Bland Shire Council Learning & Organisational Development Manager Sonia Rudd The Centroc Training Service is in its 7th year of operation and continues to address the needs of Centroc councils and other local councils surrounding the Centroc region. The Training Service works to:

• Research and source relevant and quality training for members • Coordinate training for members to improve access to courses • Achieve cost savings for members through group purchasing and negotiating

discounts with training providers.

The service also allows other government agencies and private organisations the opportunity to access training being held in the region. Training Statistics For the 2009-2010 financial years the following has occurred:

• All 19 member councils have accessed courses run by the Training Service

• 9 non member councils have attended training run by Centroc

• 2 state departments have attended Centroc training

• 1 government service has attended Centroc training

• 10 private organisations have accessed training

• 53 different types of courses have been delivered

• 1474 people have been trained via the service

• Total spend with the service is $379,353

• Cost of training using alternative providers would have been $461,904

• Savings on course costs is $83,211

• Savings on travel and accommodation costs is $87,919

• Savings on coordination and research time is $19,575

• Total savings $190,711

Training Service Survey In June 2010, the Centroc Regional Training Service asked members to complete an anonymous online survey to determine whether the needs of each individual council were being met. Of the 20 Centroc member councils, 19 participants took part in the online survey. From the 12 questions asked, there is an overall favourable outcome and full results of the survey are available on request. The survey covered areas of;

• Value for money

• Communication with clients

• Customer service

• Access to and variety of training

• Quality of training providers

The survey provided the respondents with the opportunity to recommend improvements to the service to ensure it addresses members’ needs. These recommendations have been reviewed and the training service is in the process of implementing the changes. Take your daughter to work day

In recognition of the Year of Women in Local Government 2010, Centroc has launched the inaugural Take Your Daughter to Work Day which was held across the region by participating Councils on 9 November 2010. Centroc committed to supporting this program in an effort to;

• increase the awareness in young women of the major opportunities for employment and career paths in local government

• foster the progress of women into managerial roles • expand the scope of employment for women into non-traditional roles • retain the youth of the Centroc region within our communities • address the skill shortages in local government by “growing our own” qualified

professionals

Centroc developed a handbook, designed as a step by step guide to implementing the program to make planning and delivery of the day easier for Councils. The handbook included:

• Question and Answer Fact Sheet • A suggested Day Plan • Activities for kids and adults

• Sample forms and templates for communication with parents and schools • Draft report for Councils and draft media releases

Diploma of Horticulture On-Line Centroc is supporting TAFE Western for its application to Australian Flexible Learning Framework (AFLF) for the Diploma of Horticulture On-Line project. The application was submitted on the 28 September 2010 and if successful will begin enrolments in November 2010. The Diploma of Horticulture On-Line Project will be a valuable educational tool for many of Centroc’s councils. There are geographical limitations when it comes to training and education for our employees. This project will equip local government staff with improved technical and managerial skills for their position allowing career progression and succession planning, and will also bring personnel up to date with new and emerging technologies in the area of communication and education. The project is valued at just over $50,000. This partnership adds to a list of projects Centroc has undertaken with TAFE Western in the past, including;

• In 2008 Centroc was a partner with the Business Arts and IT (BAIT) Faculty for another AFLF e-learning innovations project. This pilot project focused on e-platforms for recognition of prior learning (RPL) for students in the Graduate Certificate of Management Communication.

• Centroc’s Learning & Organisational Development Manager, Sonia Rudd, is on the steering committee for TAFE Western’s Alternative Pathways Project for the Diploma of Civil Construction and Design funded by the Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations (DEEWR). This project engages a number of local government employees across three of Centroc’s member councils

• Centroc has provided support to TAFE Western’s Manufacturing, Engineering, Construction and Transport (MECAT) Faculty for their Green Skills on the Road Project, which creates linkages between communities, local government and TAFE on best sustainability practices.

• Recently Sonia Rudd was nominated for a position on the TAFE Western Advisory Council for 2010-2011.

Central West Human Resources Management Group (CWHRMG) This year the Central West Human Resources Group have focused on examining the impact and providing feedback on the award negotiations for the Local Government (State) Award which is due to commence 1 November 2010. The group has also had significant discussion on the impact of the Federal Fair Work Act on our Councils. Regular industrial updates have been provided by the Industrial Relations team from the LGSA who attend the CWHRMG meeting in person or by WebEx technology. This has been especially beneficial for those Councils who are unable to attend the Sydney Human Resource Group Meetings. The group also secured a number of high calibre speakers to present and discuss a wide range of contemporary Human Resource topics including School Based Traineeships, Wellbeing Programs, Indigenous Employment Strategy and Management of Staff who present with Suicidal Ideologies.

The CWHRMG continues to see one of its major roles as bringing together Human Resource professionals across Central West Councils to network, share information and find solutions on wide ranging Human Resource matters that impact on our Councils

Supply Management Team Report by Lee Chapman Aim of the Centroc Supply Team To implement strategies to improve supply management in Councils and achieve savings through joint procurement of goods and services. Sponsoring General Manger Aaron Jones Blayney Shire Council Chair Peter Heffernan Cabonne Council Central NSW Councils, through their participation in the Supply Management Team initiatives, continue to deliver both significant cost savings across the region as well as an income stream. The seventeen Councils of Centroc have taken advantage of the significant savings made available through the joint tender approach. The Supply Management Team was established in June 2003. The objectives of this team are:

1. Networking of professional purchasing staff 2. Achieve savings through joint procurement of goods and services 3. Generate income through rebates to Central NSW Councils 4. Facilitate professional development and training of Council purchasing staff 5. Encourage use of the latest technology for communication and purchasing functions

The Team An employee from each member Council is represented on the Centroc Supply Management Team with meetings held every six weeks. When the Team make a decision to investigate a particular product or service a small working group is established. This working group ideally includes two members of the Supply Management Team and an expert in the field. Generally surveys are conducted on the product or service and this information is discussed at our regular meetings. If required, an expert in the field will be invited to address the Team regarding this product which may include Councils staff, NSW Department of Commerce, other government agencies or private enterprise. The Supply Team has four options when exploring a product or service.

1. No action 2. Utilise the regional comparative data to negotiate lower prices with their own

suppliers 3. Negotiate a Regional Supply Agreement for that product/service 4. Proceed to a Regional Tender for that product/service

The philosophy of this Team in relation to regional contracts is that participation is voluntary, as not all regional tenders will suit all Councils.

Existing Contracts Include

• Road Signs • Bitumen Emulsion • Electricity • Office Products

Information Sharing The supply team are also interested in new and innovative ideas and sharing trials of procurement projects around the region. Current trials being undertaken around the region with reports to the group on their progress include vehicle tracking software (Cowra) and an online council’s rate payment system (Lithgow). A process to get regional contracts through each council more efficiently has been developed and approved by the Supply Management Team, GMAC and the Centroc Board. This will ensure regional contracts will be most effective for those councils. Tender Evaluation Software Centroc has trialled and since purchased a tender evaluation tool called Apet. The program provides a streamlined process to evaluate tenders and provides governance for the entire process. This program has been used on four regional tenders this year each reinforcing the benefits. Cowra council has been shown the program and has purchased the program. Opportunities The team will continue to research regional contract opportunities including

• Fuel • Small plant hire • Guard rails • Ready mix concrete • Fire extinguisher servicing

Council Attendance at Supply Management Team Meetings

5/08/2009 16/09/2009 28/10/2009 9/12/2009 17/02/2010 31/03/2010 21/05/2010 23/06/2010Blayney Bathurst Molong Orange Blayney Orange Bathurst Wellington

Bathurst 1Blayney 5BoorowaCabonne 6Cowra 8Forbes 6HardenLachlanLithgow 6Oberon 2Orange 3Parkes 5Upper Lachlan 1WeddinWellington 7YoungCentroc 8

Total

Auditors Report

Attendance List GMAC/BOARD General Managers Advisory Committee Attendance for the financial year 2009 - 2010

GMAC

30.07.2009 GMAC

29.10.2009 GMAC

04.02.2010 GMAC

29.04.2010 Total

Bathurst X 3 Blayney 4 Boorowa 4 Cabonne 4 Central Tablelands Water

X 3

Cowra X 3 Forbes X 3 Harden X 3 Lachlan 4 Lithgow 4 Oberon X X X 1 Orange 4 Parkes X 3 Upper Lachlan X 3 Weddin 4 Wellington 4 Young X 3

Board Meeting Attendance for the financial year 2009 - 2010 (At least one elected delegate) Board

27.08.2009 Board

26.11.2009 Board

25.02.2010 Board

27.05.2010 Total

Bathurst 4 Blayney 4 Boorowa X 3 Cabonne 4 Central Tablelands Water

4

Cowra 4 Forbes 4 Harden X 3 Lachlan 4 Lithgow X 3 Oberon X 3 Orange 4 Parkes 4 Upper Lachlan X 3 Weddin 4 Wellington X 3 Young X 3

Bathurst Regional Council

Lithgow City Council

Blayney Shire Council

Oberon Council

Boorowa Shire Council

Orange City Council

Cabonne Council

Parkes Shire Council

Central Tablelands Water

Upper Lachlan Shire Council

Cowra Shire Council

Weddin Shire Council

Forbes Shire Council

Wellington Council

Harden Shire Council

Young Shire Council

Lachlan Shire Council

annual report 2009/2010 - lithgow city...

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