Annual Report

partnerships

2012 / 2013

Dubbo City 2013 3

Mayor’s welcome 4

Your Councillors 5

Dubbo 2036 6-9

General Manager’s review 10

How Council operates 11

Our people, our place 12-15

Transport 16

Sewerage services 17

Waste services 18

Water supply 19

Community protection 20

City development 21

Corporate business 22

Built and natural environment 23

Community services 24

Human environment 25

Parks and landcare services 26

Corporate services 27

Summary of statutory annual report 28 -29

2012/2013 Financial statements 30

Connecting Council and the community 31

BUSINESS SUSTAINABILITY2013 Office of Environment and Heritage Sustainability Advantage Recognition SchemeDubbo City Council recognised as a Sustainability Advantage Bronze Partner for its demonstrated commitment to business sustainability.

DUBBO 2012 YOUTH WEEK2012 Local Government Youth Week AwardsFinalist – Best Overall Youth Week Program.

APEX OVAL STORMWATER HARVESTING PROJECT2012 Institute of Public Works Engineering Australia (IPWEA) – NSW Engineering Excellence AwardsWinner – Environmental Enhancement Project or Initiative.

MACQUARIE STREET REALIGNMENT AND LINE MARKING2012 Institute of Public Works Engineering Australia (IPWEA) – NSW Engineering Excellence AwardsHighly Commended – Excellence in Road Safety Engineering.

MANAGER CITY DEVELOPMENT AND COMMUNICATIONS NATASHA COMBER2012 Local Government Week AwardsWinner – Award for Outstanding Individual Contribution.

Dubbo City Council 2012/2013 awards and citations

COntEntS

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Dubbo Council uses

National Carbon Offset Standard certified printed products

This printed product is certified carbon neutral under the Australian Government’s Carbon Offset Standard.

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Dubbo City 2013Community partnerships to create a vibrant city of lifestyle and opportunityDubbo today is growing strongly with significant new investment in the past four years, an increasing population and increased responsibility as a service hub for more than 120,000 people.

the growth and development of the City is best achieved through partnerships between Dubbo City Council, Local, State and Federal Governments and Departments, businesses, industry and community organisations.

this partnership approach is core to the Dubbo 2036 Community Strategic Plan which envelops all of Council’s decision making. Effective partnerships are key to the many projects and initiatives delivered by Council.

Dubbo City Council has established various formal committees and working parties to ensure there is community involvement and representation in Council’s operations. through open and on-going dialogue, projects are identified and strategies put in place that address community needs.

Partnership with the community has led to improvements in transport, sporting facilities, cultural and recreational pursuits, social services and major infrastructure.

there is positive work continually taking place to ensure Dubbo maintains its position as a vibrant, leading regional City and a desirable place to live and invest in. Dubbo City Council is committed to working as part of a united community to ensure this happens.

DUBBO CItY SnAPSHOtSize of Dubbo LGA: 3425 square kilometres

traditional owners: tubbagah People of the Wiradjuri nation

Villages and Localities:

Ballimore, Brocklehurst, Eumungerie, Mogriguy, Rawsonville, toongi and Wongarbon

Elevation: 264m (Dubbo)

Population: 40, 882

Catchment population: 120,000

Businesses: More than 3500

Value of Gross Regional Product: $2.15B

Averaged Annual overnight visitors 2012/2013: 422,000

Value of approved development 2012/2013: $179.9M

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Mayor’s welcomeDubbo City Council relies on creating a number of partnerships to deliver the services that the community expects and our residents respond by being engaged and involved in our wonderful City.

On a wider scale, Dubbo is an important player in our regional landscape. Dubbo relies on the towns and residents throughout the region to inject money into our economy and the region relies on Dubbo to provide goods and services that they need. this symbiotic relationship is crucial in developing our entire region – and in developing the region Dubbo and the surrounding towns will all benefit.

the theme of community and partnership is evident throughout this report – and indeed throughout the entire City. Our regular volunteering rate is still very high in our community with 19.6% of our residents involved in regular volunteering (compared to a nSW average of 16.9%). this is a real indication of the engagement and strength within our community.

We have strong partnerships with the other two levels of government and that has resulted in significant funds flowing into Dubbo. Our unique Community Leaders Breakfasts give our residents unprecedented access to all three levels of government – in the one location on a quarterly basis. not only do these forums allow residents to speak with their leaders, it cements the ongoing partnerships that have been formed amongst the community leaders. this has been reflected in projects such as the Barden Park Athletics Centre; the Apex Oval Stormwater Harvesting; the Dubbo Regional theatre and Convention Centre and the Dubbo Regional Botanic Garden which have received millions of dollars in funding from the State and Federal Governments.

At a regional level, the Macquarie Regional Library shows how Councils can work together – without the need for amalgamation. Four Councils in our region formed this organisation to provide better access to library resources without increasing costs. On a broader scale, we have recently had an additional Council join OROC (Orana Region of Councils) to take the total number of Councils to 12. the total population of the OROC area is less than 100,000 so it is obvious that Dubbo is a significant component of this group. there are benefits for the region and for our residents by being a strong supporter of this group.

As you read through the pages of this report you will see so many examples of partnerships in our community providing significant results. the business community, and our Chamber of Commerce, work very well in Dubbo to provide the services and facilities we need. You only need to witness the Rhino Awards to see the quality of businesses we have serving Dubbo and the Region.

the examples throughout this report continue. the One night Stand was a wonderful outcome for our community that involved a range of partnerships. Our groups participating in tree-planting and clean-up days involve extensive partnerships. the continued success of our Sister-City relationships involves a range of international partnerships. Even the success of our theatre involves a range of commercial partnerships. the ongoing consultation with our community and the Community Strategic Plan involve partnerships at the most strategic level.

the incredible strength of Dubbo lies in the wonderful people that reside here, and I reserve a special thanks to the team we currently have at Council. In our group of Councillors we have a team who are energetic, enthusiastic and keep coming forward with ideas. I would pit this team against any other group of Councillors in nSW and all 11 fully understand that tEAM is not a word but an acronym – together Everyone Achieves More. In our General Manager, Directors and staff of Council, we have a dedicated team of people who live here, work here and have the best interests of Dubbo at heart. the wonderful ideas of Councillors are only as good as the team we have to implement them.

I ask you to read this report and feel free to continue the open dialogue with Council that Dubbo residents have enjoyed for many years. I look forward to continuing to serve as your Mayor in this wonderful City.

Cr Mathew DickersonMayor of the City of Dubbo

“No man is an island. It is well-documented that humans are social beings that survive – and thrive – in group situations. In the same vein, I would suggest that no city or town should be an island. In Dubbo, we have a perfect example of both of these themes shining through in our day to day lives.”

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Cr Mathew DickersonMayor

Technology and Business ConsultantPhone 0418 639 053mayor@dubbo.nsw.gov.au

Cr Kevin ParkerBank ManagerPhone 02 68 412 600clrkevin.parker@dubbo.nsw.gov.au

Cr Tina ReynoldsCompany DirectorPhone 0439 450 503clrtina.reynolds@dubbo.nsw.gov.au

Cr Rod TowneyManager, Aboriginal Education and Training with Western Institute of TAFEPhone 0418 611 572clrrod.towney@dubbo.nsw.gov.au

Cr John WalkomBusiness OwnerPhone 0419 843 233clrjohn.walkom@dubbo.nsw.gov.au

Cr Ben ShieldsDeputy Mayor

Radio ProducerPhone 0402 136 097clrben.shields@dubbo.nsw.gov.au

Cr Lyn GriffithsChair Planning and Development Committee, Chair Works and Services Committee Business OwnerPhone 0427 459 639clrlyn.griffiths@dubbo.nsw.gov.au

Cr Bill KellyCompany DirectorPhone 0429 159 116clrbill.kelly@dubbo.nsw.gov.au

Cr Greg MatthewsWholesalerPhone 0427 248 410clrgreg.matthews@dubbo.nsw.gov.au

Cr Greg MohrPublic ServantPhone 0429 477 919clrgreg.mohr@dubbo.nsw.gov.au

Cr Allan SmithChair Finance and Policy CommitteePhone 0428 638 210clrallan.smith@dubbo.nsw.gov.au

Your Councillors

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A vibrant city of lifestyle and opportunitythe Dubbo 2036 Community Strategic Plan is the City’s highest level plan. It drives decision making across the Dubbo Local Government Area.

It is a plan that has been developed by the community and records what the community wants for Dubbo by the year 2036. the plan came into effect on July 1, 2012.

the shared vision captured in Dubbo 2036 is to create a progressive City that all residents take pride in; a safe and friendly City; and a united City where residents support each other.

the Plan informs Council’s operations and decision making via a four- year Delivery Program and annual Operational Plan.

Dubbo’s progress towards 2036together, Dubbo City Council, the community and other partners and agencies are taking steps – both big and small – to create a vibrant City of lifestyle and opportunity.

the population of Dubbo stands at 40,882. Current projections will see the population exceed 51,000 by 2036.

the value approvals for residential, commercial and industrial investment in 2012/2013 was $179.9M – up 112% on the previous financial year. this investment creates economic activity but importantly ensures the City has the services and facilities expected by residents.

Some 97% of residents say they are proud to live in Dubbo and 90% say the City has the services to meet their lifestyle and social needs.

Regarding education, 90% of residents feel the City has an appropriate range of education services. tertiary opportunities are growing with enrolments at Charles Sturt University’s Dubbo campus up 7% between 2011 and 2012, with 81% coming from Dubbo and the region.

tAFE Western continues to develop opportunities to meet the needs of industry and Dubbo continues to be a base for heavy road transport, mining and earthmoving training.

Overall crime has decreased by 18% on the previous year. nSW Police and Council continue to identify problem areas and work with community organisations to ensure our residents feel safe and secure.

Dubbo 2036

Dubbo 2036 Community Strategic Plan has established the community’s vision for the development of the City. The plan is owned by the Dubbo community.

The success of Dubbo 2036 is only possible because of the genuine commitment by everyone in Dubbo to work towards making the City the best place it can be.

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As a place to live, Dubbo provides affordable housing with 92.5% of mortgages in the City less than 30% of the household income. Dubbo has a stable workforce with an unemployment rate of 4.7%, which is lower than the nSW average.

the Health and Social Services sector is the City’s largest employer and one of its largest exports regionally. A $79.8M redevelopment of the Dubbo Base Hospital is further evidence of the City’s role as a service provider to the wider region of 120,000 people and is helping ensure there is an appropriate range of health services available including hospital and emergency services, and access to specialists and general practitioners.

the City also has a reputation as a strong place to invest, with a stable economy not solely based on one industry but spread generously across several industry sectors. this has allowed the City to maintain stable economic growth despite droughts and pressure on commodity prices.

As a whole, after its first year in operation the progress made towards the vision of Dubbo 2036 has been encouraging.

Dubbo City Council, as the custodian of Dubbo 2036, will continue to work closely with the community to monitor and report on progress of the plan, outcomes and strategies.

It is easy to stay up to date and involved with Dubbo 2036 through the website at dubbo2036.com.au or join the conversation on Facebook at www.fb.com/dubbo2036

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Major projectsMany projects completed or commenced in 2012/2013 are helping to address issues identified  in the 2036 Community Strategic Plan.

the completion of the Apex Oval Stormwater Harvesting Project with an nRL quality playing surface and the start of construction of the Regional Centre of Excellence for Athletics at Barden Park are helping ensure Dubbo has first-class sporting facilities and can cater for a wide range of local, regional and State sporting events.

the expansion of the Dubbo Regional Botanic Garden to include Oasis Valley, a 1.4 km extension of the tracker Riley Cycleway, the creation of a 20-year vision for Regand Park and the development of the Wiradjuri Park Master Plan to celebrate Aboriginal culture have also been completed. these initiatives meet the community vision for opportunities to participate in a range of sports as well as opportunities for active and passive recreation and engaging with the City’s Aboriginal Cultural Heritage.

to ensure transport, water supply and sewerage services meet the needs of a growing City, Council has continued to lobby for funding to build a second flood-free crossing of the Macquarie River. Construction of the talbragar Street roundabout and Brisbane Street beautification project commenced in 2012/2013 and concept plans for low-level crossings of the Macquarie River at tamworth Street and Purvis Lane were developed. Detailed designs were also completed for a proposed $27.7 million upgrade of the Dubbo Sewage treatment Plant.

Major upgrades to regional infrastructure including the Dubbo City Regional Airport upgrade to a Category 3 security airport and the $4M upgrade to the Dubbo Regional Livestock Markets are helping ensure Dubbo has premier regional facilities that provide financial returns for the community.

People continue to find Dubbo a desirable place to live and invest with 185 confirmed new residents being welcomed to the City through Council’s resident attraction program and $179.9M worth of new development approved by Council.

Other initiatives to enhance City lifestyle and economic development include the commencement of the preparation of a Mining Services Strategy, the introduction of investors’ seminars and Mayoral Developers Forums to collaborate with industry partners, and the start of a Public Art Strategy to help create an attractive City for residents.

Community Performance IndicatorsDubbo 2036 includes a series of Community Performance Indicators. these indicators are measures of the success of adopted strategies and projects. In consultation with the 2036 Champions’ Group the table opposite represents the City’s progress against the highest priority performance indicators.

Future directionsDubbo City Council’s four-year Delivery Program is directly aligned to the outcomes identified in Dubbo 2036 which ensures future projects and Council services will continue to address community issues.

All information relating to the Plan, including Council’s Delivery Program, strategies, actions and outcomes, can be found at www.dubbo2036.com.au

Dubbo 2036 (continued)

Council has identified key community members to form the Dubbo 2036 Champions’ group to assist with the ongoing development and implementation of the plan.

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Resident satisfaction with services and lifestyle

Environmental management

Tourism and development

90.5%Say there is an

appropriate range of educational services

8Ha

native vegetation planted by Dubbo

City Council (up 60%)

422,000Averaged annual overnight

visitors for 2012/2013 (up 12% from 2010/2011)

50.5%Say the City offers first class sporting

facilities

56,244tonnes of waste

landfilled at Whylandra Waste

Depot (up 22%)

419,000Average annual day visits

for 2012/2013 (up 6.31% from 2010/2011)

90.5%Say essential

community and social services are provided

7,676tonnes of recycling

diverted from landfill (up 10%)

$179.9MValue of approved investment

in 2012/2013– residential, commercial, industrial

(up 112.45%)

62.75%Say there is an

appropriate range of medical services

1.32tonnes of total

waste generated per capita (up 21%)

70.81%Are satisfied or very satisfied with overall operations of Council

425Kl

Average household water consumption

(up 71%)

16,252MWh

Council energy use (up 6.6%)

185new residents

in 2012/2013 welcomed through the new Resident

Attraction Program

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I look back on the past financial year with satisfaction and I am pleased to report to the community on Council’s efforts to ensure Dubbo continues to strive towards its vision to be ‘a vibrant city of lifestyle and opportunity.’

the shared vision, strategies and actions contained within the Dubbo 2036 Community Strategic Plan underpinned Council’s 2012-2016 Delivery Program, with many of those initiatives, projects and activities well in-hand or finalised during the past 12 months.

to single out a few of the major outcomes, I note the following achievements:

• Commenced construction of the $6.7M Barden Park Centre of Excellence for Athletics. the Centre will replace existing facilities at the north Dubbo site with a new 500-seat grandstand and the region’s first international-standard synthetic athletics track

• Completed Stage 2 of a three-stage project involving the construction of a roundabout and associated landscaping as a centrepiece in the ongoing beautification of talbragar Street

• Finalised a 20-year Master Plan for Council’s largest area of under-developed recreational land located along the Macquarie River corridor at Regand Park. the Master Plan includes provisions for a velodrome and cycling precinct, a wetlands area and swimming lake, cultural precinct with amphitheatre and sculpture park, and an all-abilities adventure playground

• Further developed the Dubbo Regional Botanic Garden to include Oasis Valley

• Hosted two major events that have continued to build upon Dubbo’s reputation as an events centre – the 2012 Local Government Association Conference and the nationally televised triple j One night Stand concert

• Upgraded Dubbo City Regional Airport to a Category 3 Security Airport as the City welcomed larger aircraft, with further upgrades to include expansion of the terminal’s departure area and car park, and the installation of shade structures in the secure car park

• Completed the detailed design for the upgrade of the Dubbo Sewage treatment Plant to cater for future population growth

• Completed upgrades at Apex Oval which included the installation of a 10 megalitre underground stormwater harvesting reservoir and an nRL-standard playing surface

• Commenced a $4M upgrade of the Dubbo Regional Livestock Markets and maintained its position as the number one selling centre in nSW for cattle and number three for sheep sales

As well as progressing major projects, on a smaller scale Council continued to inject colour and life into the City by supporting initiatives such as the introduction of three rhino sculptures at key locations, refurbishing the Central Business District (CBD) – including centre-row tree plantings in Brisbane Street – and continuing to implement the CBD banner program.

In 2012/2013, Dubbo City Council maintained its strong financial position and commenced a formal corporate response to address the issues of financial sustainability and infrastructure backlogs.

Council performed well in its biennial survey of residents, with 70.8% of respondents stating they were satisfied or very satisfied with the overall operations of Dubbo City Council. this is a pleasing result however there is always room for improvement and I thank those who took the time to provide feedback to Council.

As we look to the coming year, I would like to take this opportunity to thank the elected Councillors for their ongoing support and Council’s executive team for their commitment to delivering high quality services and facilities. I would also like to thank Council staff for their professionalism, dedication and diligence in what has been another year of achievements for Council and the community.

I am pleased to present Dubbo City Council’s 2012/2013 Annual Report.

Mark Riley General Manager

General Manager’s review

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How Council operatesDubbo City Council has six operational Divisions responsible for the implementation of Council’s 12 Principal Activities which direct the everyday operations of the Organisation (below):

Dubbo City Council’s executive team: (back) Director Parks and Landcare Services Murray Wood, General Manager Mark Riley, Director technical Services Stewart McLeod, Director Corporate Development Ken Rogers, Director Organisational Services Craig Giffin. (front) Executive Assistant to General Manager Charlene Bower, Director Community Services David Dwyer, Director Environmental Services Melissa Watkins.

COUNCIL DIVISION PRINCIPAL ACTIVITY FUNCTIONS

TECHNICAL SERVICES TRANSPORT Footpaths and Cycleways, traffic Management, Street Lighting, Road network

SEWERAGE SERVICES Sewerage Services

WASTE SERVICES Domestic Waste Management Services, Other Waste Management Services

WATER SUPPLY Water Supply Services

COMMUNITY PROTECTION Stormwater and Flood Mitigation, Fire Services, Emergency Management

CORPORATE DEVELOPMENT

CITY DEVELOPMENT City Development, City Marketing, Corporate Development Business Support Services, Visitor Information Services

CORPORATE BUSINESS Dubbo Regional Livestock Markets, Dubbo City Regional Airport, Dubbo City Holiday Park, Dubbo Showground, Property Development

ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES

BUILT AND NATURAL ENVIRONMENT

Environment and Health Services, Environmental Sustainability Services, Ranger Services, City Strategy, Building Control, Environmental Support Services

COMMUNITY SERVICES

COMMUNITY SERVICES Cemeteries, Recreation Services, Library Services, Old Dubbo Gaol, Dubbo Aquatic Leisure Centre, Social Services, Rainbow Cottage Childcare Centre, Family Day Care Services, Cultural Services, Community Services Business Support Services, Dubbo Regional theatre and Convention Centre, Western Plains Cultural Centre

HUMAN ENVIRONMENT Human Environment Services

PARKS AND LANDCARE SERVICES

PARKS AND LANDCARE Horticultural Services, Landcare Services, Parks and Landcare Business Support Services, Sporting Facilities, Parks and Landcare Operations

ORGANISATIONAL SERVICESCORPORATE DEVELOPMENTTECHNICAL SERVICES

CORPORATE SERVICES Customer Services, Corporate Communication Services, Corporate Development/Strategic Management, Fleet Management Services, Management Accounting Services, Financial Accounting Services, Human Resource Services, Information Management Services, Administrative Services, Civic Administration Building, technical Support Services, technical Business Support Services, Depot Services, Rates and General Revenue, Employment Overhead Distribution, Corporate Overheads, Works Services, Governance.

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Dubbo City Council takes pride in partnering with local organisations and the community to care for the City and its people and create a vibrant City life and culture.

throughout the year a range of lifestyle, environmental, safety, social and community initiatives were undertaken to enhance Dubbo’s lifestyle.

Water safety campaign

three Dubbo identities joined Dubbo City Council in a summer community education campaign to raise awareness particularly among young people of the dangers of rivers and weirs. Fishing enthusiast Matt Hansen, ‘Riverbank’ Frank Doolan and Dubbo College Senior Campus student captain teleria Milson recorded radio commercials which played locally for six weeks.

In addition to the educational messages, various activities were arranged to engage youth and teach them about the dangers associated with swimming in the river and playing on the riverbank. Council’s Aboriginal Liaison Officer and staff from Council’s Parks and Landcare Division hosted activities such as fishing clinics, stories by Elders and the making of a canoe by traditional methods.

A safer CityIn 2012/2013 there was an 18% reduction in overall crime incidents reported in Dubbo.

Strategies from the 2011-2014 Dubbo Crime Prevention Plan to address theft from motor vehicles and malicious damage have continued to be implemented with six-monthly updates presented to Council detailing the actions undertaken.

Activities, initiatives and events for our City’s youthDubbo City Council, Dubbo City Youth Council and the Dubbo Youth Interagency worked together to present Dubbo’s biggest Youth Week program to date.

the diverse program of events culminating in the triple j One night Stand concert attracted many thousands of young people while also shining a light on key issues affecting the City’s youth.

the Youth Council has continued to support young people in Dubbo who wish to take an active role in their community and be a voice for others. the Youth Council successfully obtained a $20,000 grant which will assist them in hosting the 2013 nSW Youth Council Conference in Dubbo in november 2013.

the event will bring Youth Councils from across the State to Dubbo to discuss issues and learn new skills that they can implement in their own communities.

the Youth Council and Council’s Youth Development Officer have continued to work with the Midnite Cafe to provide a positive environment where young people can express themselves through music and art and make new friends. the Youth Development Officer has also been working with a variety of community service providers to support educational, sporting and cultural activities in the Apollo Estate and in south west Dubbo to engage young people in positive activities.

Our people, our placeDubbo City Council takes pride in partnering with local organisations and the community to care for the City and its people and also create a vibrant City life and culture.

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The environmentDubbo ALIVE is Council’s Environmental Management Plan which includes a range of environmental initiatives.

Since the adoption of Dubbo ALIVE in 2006, Dubbo City Council has continued to improve its environmental performance in the areas of energy, waste, biodiversity, salinity, water and pollution.

Council also continues to partner with various organisations to promote and deliver environmental sustainability in the region.

Renewable energy and energy efficiencyCouncil has been educating the community about energy efficiency and renewable energy through initiatives such as the nSW Home Power Savings Program, resulting in 30% of Dubbo households having solar installations. Power Saving Kits were also on loan from the Dubbo Branch Library.

Further energy improvements were made to Council facilities including the completion of solar pool heating at the Dubbo Aquatic Leisure Centre, an Energy Smart Family Day Care building and various lighting upgrades.

A local government partnership is also developing the Central nSW Distributed Energy Plan. the Plan will assist Dubbo, Bathurst, Orange, Young, Forbes, Wellington and Cowra Councils with the development and definition of energy efficiency, peak demand management and distributed energy generation initiatives.

Biodiversitythe Dubbo Regional Botanic Garden has become a focal point for environmental initiatives. An education program with associated resources which incorporates the Biodiversity Garden has been developed for visiting school groups. the program raises awareness about local plants and animals and their importance to the local environment and our lifestyle. Continual improvement of our waterways and reserves through works that protect, restore and rehabilitate are further protecting our local biodiversity.

Stormwater harvestingthe Apex Oval Stormwater Harvesting Project which included installing a 10 megalitre underground reservoir to capture water from the existing stormwater system that drains a large section of the City was completed in early 2013. the project will supply 49% of the facility’s irrigation requirements, harvesting up to 40 million litres of water per year and reducing demand on Dubbo’s drinking water. the system will reduce carbon dioxide production by 7.67 tonnes per year.

Community awarenessCouncil has continued to educate the community about a range of environmental issues through various programs such as the Waste-to-Art competition, national tree Day, Clean-Up Australia Day, a Wood Smoke Reduction Campaign, school tours and presentations, and attending events such as the Dubbo Show.

the 2012 Dubbo Sustainable City Expo was again very popular with exhibitors and residents. the Dubbo Sustainable City Facebook page continues to raise awareness about local environmental issues and activities.

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NeutralDrive initiativethis is the second year of a carbon sequestration program – branded neutralDrive – with the goal of sequestering all of Council’s small vehicle fleet emissions through native forest establishment on Council owned or managed land. the program complies with Carbon Farming Initiative methodologies. Council is also improving the efficiency of its fleet, using E10 and biodiesel and utilising hybrid and electric vehicles.

Australia Day 201364 people became Australian citizens at Citizenship ceremonies in Dubbo during 2012/2013, 19 of whom were bestowed citizenship on Australia Day. Approximately 550 people attended the 2013 celebrations in Victoria Park where five people received awards including Kathy Furney who was named Dubbo’s 2013 Citizen of the Year.

Dubbo Day Awardsthe City’s ‘unsung heroes’ were again awarded in recognition of their services to the community during 2012. Fifteen people received a Dubbo City Community Service Award, with Catherine Fidock receiving the coveted tony McGrane Public Service Award. the awards were presented on 23 november or ‘Dubbo Day’ – the anniversary of Dubbo officially becoming a village in 1849.

City of Dubbo Hall of FameDubbo’s Hall of Fame was launched on 19 February 2013 coinciding with another milestone in the City’s history, the gazettal of Dubbo as a municipality. the Hall of Fame was established to recognise the achievements and contributions of individuals and families who have a strong association with Dubbo and who have attained significant prominence at a State, national or International level in their field of endeavour. Council remains committed to establishing the Hall of Fame but has delayed the initial induction to put in place a sound and rigorous process for identifying inductees.

2012 Multicultural FestivalA significant community partnership for Dubbo City Council is with the Dubbo Multicultural Festival Committee. Council contributed $15,000 towards the 2012 Multicultural Festival which included a week of activities with a street parade, delicious foods from a number of cultures, performances, and a dinner and concert.

Sister City ProgramIt has been another busy year full of Sister City visits and activities. this included the reciprocal annual student exchange with Minokamo (in Japan) and Dubbo and the 10th anniversary celebration of the opening of Shoyoen; Dubbo hosted nine Minokamo delegates who joined in the festivities.

In addition, the Mayor of Dubbo Councillor Mathew Dickerson self-funded a visit to Minokamo to participate in a symposium discussing the Sister City relationship between Dubbo and Minokamo and ways to strengthen this special bond of friendship.

Financial support for community partners

Dubbo City Council provides financial support to a number of organisations who provide essential community and social services or events that enhance the City’s image and lifestyle.

these community partnerships include:

• $160,000 to Dubbo neighbourhood Centre,• $27,500 to Royal Flying Doctor Service,• $40,000 to DREAM Festival,• $15,000 to Multi Cultural Festival,• $10,000 to Dubbo Jazz Club,• $10,000 to Dubbo Show Society,• $7000 to Dubbo Eisteddfod,• $5000 to Macquarie Philharmonia Orchestra,• $5000 to Red Ochre Festival,• $5272 to Orana Mobile Life Education, and• $2000 to Carols by Candlelight.

Our people, our place (continued)

Lifestyle and opportunity for the Dubbo community are enhanced with premier facilities and Council and community partnerships

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Council also donated $21,000 to community organisations through its annual Community Financial Assistance Program, and contributed $32,455 financial and in-kind support through its Event Development and Support Program.

Dubbo Regional Theatre and Convention Centre (DRTCC)

the DRtCC continues to be well supported by local and regional residents, with 27,707 people attending ticketed theatre performances in 2012/2013. Performing arts-related events occurred on 166 days while business/community related events occurred on 138 days. the commercial kitchen, Oxley Room and bar were upgraded utilising a $1.2M funding grant provided by the Australian Government.

A major priority in the coming year will be the development of a capital upgrade program to modernise the Convention Centre component of the DRtCC. the 100,000th ticket sale since the official opening in April 2010 will also be celebrated in 2013/2014.

Western Plains Cultural Centre (WPCC)the WPCC experienced a 13% increase in visitation in 2012/2013, with 74,016 people visiting the Centre which hosted 32 exhibitions.

Council also refurbished the concrete polished floors of the Art Gallery, foyer and Museum, and the Community Arts Centre roof.

In 2013/2014, Council will invest funding to refurbish the ceilings in the Community Arts Centre. A Sister City room will also be established to commemorate the relationship between Dubbo and its Sister Cities.

Macquarie Regional Library – Dubbo Branchthe Macquarie Regional Library – Dubbo Branch, is used extensively by residents and visitors. 143,502 visits were registered in 2012/2013 and more than 218,000 items were borrowed. Some 1,800 children and parents attended Storytime sessions.

Highlights of the year included the Bush to Beach and Carved trees exhibitions; the 75th anniversary celebration of the Aboriginal Progressive Association; a significant local studies donation of the Montgomery Studio Photographic Archive; author visits by Libby Hathorn, Paul Horner, Sandy Brocking, Margareta Osborn and Rachel treasure; and the highly successful winter reading program.

Children’s literacy programs included Storytime and Rhymetime while school holiday programs for children and young people included the popular Summer Reading Club. In 2013/2014, library facilities will be refurbished and an e-book lending service will be implemented.

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CO-ORDINATORDirector Technical Services Stewart McLeod.

The $2.7M Boothenba Road upgrade is an example of industry collaboration to improve heavy vehicle access to important industrial facilities.

Achievements in 2012/2013• Publicly exhibited and adopted the $121M

Dubbo Road transportation Strategy to 2045• Publicly exhibited and adopted a $65M 25+ year

Roads Infrastructure Strategy• Sought community feedback on future needs

associated with the City’s footpath and cycleway networks

• Completed the $2.7M Boothenba Road and Golden Highway intersection upgrade to B-double and road train standard

• Completed Stages 1 and 2 of the roundabout on the intersection of talbragar and Brisbane streets including footpath widening on intersection corners and associated beautification works

• Commenced the redevelopment of Jannali Road• Refurbished the Central Business District

in Macquarie Street• Constructed footpath in Macquarie Street

(south) and a 1.4 km shared cycle path in Margaret Crescent

• Installed bus shelters in Jack William Drive, Myall Street and Wheelers Lane

• Bitumen-sealed Umangla and tenandra Streets, Wongarbon

• Undertook traffic management in Boundary Road (Wheelers Lane to Margaret Crescent) and rehabilitated road surfaces in Margaret Crescent and St Andrews Drive

• Completed line marking in Darling Street (Erskine Street to River Street), Bunglegumbie Road (thompson Street to

troy Bridge Road) and nulla Road (Bunglegumbie Road to troy Bridge Road)

• Installed median separation islands in Birch Avenue at the Royal Parade and Windsor Parade intersections.

Priorities for 2013/2014• Complete the third and final stage of the

talbragar and Brisbane streets roundabout• Commence Stage 1 of the ‘Park Street’

redevelopment of Darling Street• Commence construction of a roundabout at

the Fitzroy and Bultje Streets’ intersection• Relocate the Boothenba Road railway level

crossing at troy Junction, and realign troy Bridge Road at the newell Highway intersection

• Construct a new bridge over the talbragar River on Old Mendooran Road

• Continue reconstruction work along Obley Road and complete the reconstruction of Jannali Road

• Upgrade the intersection at Bunglegumbie and troy Bridge Roads and bitumen-seal part of Maiala Road

• Construct a rail crossing pedestrian facility in Sheraton Road, Dubbo and Wheaton Street, Eumungerie

• Undertake traffic management in Birch Avenue (Windsor Parade to Edinburgh Avenue)

• Undertake line marking on Boothenba Road (selected locations), Minore Road (Joira Road to west of Rosedale Road) and Bultje Street (Hampden Street to Darling Street).

TransportTo provide a transport infrastructure system that allows safe, convenient and comfortable pedestrian and vehicular movements to, from and within the Local Government Area.

17

CO-ORDINATORDirector

Technical Services Stewart

McLeod.

Council will need to spend $63M on sewerage infrastructure over the next 25 years to service future population growth.

To provide environmentally responsible sewerage services which maintain the health of the Dubbo community, are cost-effective, customer-focused and cater for sustainable growth.

Achievements in 2012/2013• Completed preconstruction works for the

$27.7M upgrade of the Dubbo Sewage treatment Plant (DStP) and commissioned the Plant’s septage receivals station. the Plant’s capacity will be increased to service a future population of 55,000

• Council was successful in applying for a nSW Government interest subsidy which will result in a $1.9M cost-saving on loan interest payments for the DStP upgrade

• Finalised the Wongarbon Sewerage Scheme

• Completed an investigation into the upgrade of the Erskine Street Pump Station

• Commissioned a new Dubbo City Regional Airport Sewage Pump Station

• Publicly exhibited and adopted a $63M 25+ year strategy for the City’s sewerage infrastructure.

Priorities for 2013/2014• Call tenders for the upgrade of the Dubbo

Sewage treatment Plant and Cootha Sewage Pump Station

• Commence preconstruction work for sewage containment works in Keswick Estate

• Review the operational mechanisms which control the flow of sewage, enabling maintenance work to be undertaken at sewage pump stations under controlled conditions

• Undertake electrical/mechanical maintenance of Council’s sewerage infrastructure

• Install an electronic system that monitors the level of sewage at the Camp Road Sewage Pump Station site.

Sewerage services

18

CO-ORDINATORDirector Technical Services Stewart McLeod.

Council hosted the 2012 annual NetWaste Regional Waste-to-Art competition and exhibition to encourage people to look at new and creative ways to reuse resources that would normally be thrown away.

Achievements in 2012/2013• Conducted the annual collection services for

bulky, green, household-hazardous and e-waste with 629 tonnes of waste collected. this included 469 tonnes of mixed waste, 62 tonnes of green waste, two tonnes of tyres, 66 tonnes of white goods and 30 tonnes of e-waste

• Diverted 20% of dry recyclables from domestic waste received at the Whylandra Waste and Recycling Centre (WWRC)

• Completed a Small Vehicle Receival Centre at the WWRC – an all-weather ‘one-stop-shop’ for the disposal of mixed domestic waste and the recycling of whitegoods, metals, e-waste, car batteries and domestic recyclables

• Conducted a pumping trial at the WWRC for the capture and destruction of environmentally harmful landfill gas emissions

• Completed civil works for the development of a new landfill cell in preparation for filling to commence in 2013/2014 and upgraded the weighbridge data-capture systems at the WWRC

• Conducted an audit of waste collected in the City’s weekly-kerbside garbage service

• In 2012/2013, 3,203 tonnes of dry recyclables were diverted from landfill and included 938.5 tonnes of glass, 15.05 tonnes of aluminium, 63.4 tonnes of steel cans, 136 tonnes of plastic containers and 2,050 tonnes of paper and cardboard.

Priorities for 2013/2014

• Ensure a greater focus on resource recovery at the WWRC and implement Stage 1 of Council’s Commercial Resource Recovery Strategy

• Review Council’s existing six-well landfill gas-capture system as a Carbon Farming Initiative project

• Develop a proposal for a regional organics collection and processing operation in collaboration with netWaste councils

• Conduct a biennial customer service survey to ensure Council is meeting customer needs

• Host the annual netWaste Regional Waste-to-Art competition

• Facilitate the establishment of a privately operated e-waste receival service under the national television and Computer Recycling Scheme.

Waste servicesTo provide waste management services that are responsive to the needs of residents and businesses, committed to environmentally sustainable practices and resourced to contribute to the local economy’s competitive edge as a regional service provider.

19

By distributing free water meter covers to residents during winter Council helped home owners protect meters from breakage and damage caused by frosts.

To provide a safe, reliable and cost-effective water supply which is customer-focused, enhances the Dubbo environment and caters for sustainable growth.

Achievements in 2012/2013• Constructed the Rifle Range Reservoir no. 2,

doubling water capacity in West Dubbo• Undertook preconstruction works for

the Eumungerie Water Supply Scheme• treated 8,602ML of water with Dubbo’s average

household water consumption being 425 kilolitres• Installed water-filling stations at the following

locations: Federation Street, Ballimore; Ballimore Road; Rural Fire Service Filling Station in Burraway Street, Brocklehurst; Boothenba Road, Cooreena Road, Macquarie Street, Eulomogo Road and Westella Road; Derribong Street, Wongarbon

• Constructed mains replacement pipelines at Palmer Street, Cooinda Crescent, Darling Street (Ronald Street to tamworth Street), George Street (Gipps Street to Wingewarra Street), Frith Street (from Gipps Street) and torvean Avenue (Baird Drive to Dalbeattie Avenue).

• Promoted and distributed free water meter frost covers to local residents (upon request)

• Publicly exhibited and adopted a $111M 25+ year strategy for the City’s Water Supply infrastructure.

Priorities for 2013/2014• Finalise preconstruction works for the

Eumungerie Water Supply Scheme• Implement the Mains Replacement Program

at Gipps Street along Elston Park, Goode Street (taylor Street to Jubilee Street), Hillside Drive, Buninyong Reservoir and Fitzroy Street (Belmore Street to Cobra Street)

• Construct water-filling stations in Bunglegumbie Road, Whitewood Road and Obley Road

• Convene a multi-stakeholder Value Management Study into the proposed safety improvement works at the South Dubbo weir

• Undertake electrical/mechanical maintenance of the City’s Water Supply infrastructure.

Water supplyCO-ORDINATOR

Director Technical

Services Stewart

McLeod.

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CO-ORDINATORDirector Technical Services Stewart McLeod.

Dubbo City Council has a close partnership with the NSW Rural Fire Service and other fire-management agencies to help reduce fire-hazards.

Achievements in 2012/2013• Invited and awarded a tender for the

construction of the Rural Fire Service State Mitigation Support Service building at the Orana Zone Fire Control Complex

• In consultation with the nSW Rural Fire Service, completed fire-hazard reduction programs in high-risk areas including the western boundary of taronga Western Plains Zoo

• Completed a stormwater drainage channel upgrade in Brocklehurst

• Installed stormwater infrastructure associated with the construction of the Brisbane and talbragar Streets’ roundabout

• Publicly exhibited and adopted a $5M 25+ year strategy for the City’s stormwater drainage infrastructure.

Priorities for 2013/2014• Complete the construction of the Rural Fire

Service State Mitigation Support Service building• In conjunction with the nSW Rural Fire Service,

complete a Fire Hazard Reduction Program targeting roadside vegetation in high-risk areas

• Install stormwater infrastructure associated with the construction of the Fitzroy and Bultje Streets’ roundabout

• Undertake augmentation of the lower Church Street stormwater system at Bligh Street

• Commence Stage 1 of the north Dubbo Stormwater Scheme (Fitzroy Street, from River Street to Muller Street) to provide trunk drainage infrastructure to the area and support other drainage initiatives such as kerb and guttering

• Finalise the Wongarbon and Dubbo flood studies.

Community protectionTo provide for the protection of persons and minimise damage to property under threat from natural forces and/or external hazards.

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CO-ORDINATORDirector

Corporate Development

Ken Rogers.

In 2012/2013 the Dubbo City Event Strategy included the establishment of a Dubbo Events Network; promoting 425 local events; and the establishment of an Event Development Fund providing $32,455 cash and in-kind support to local events.

To facilitate and encourage investment that builds a strong economic base for Dubbo, enhances the standard of living for residents and visitors and reflects the competitive advantages Dubbo has for key emerging and developing industry sectors.

Achievements in 2012/2013• Maintained effective consultation through

the industry-based Economic Development Advisory Committee

• Engaged 64 prospective investors, hosted two major City Investment tours and completed 34 investment projects

• Facilitated industry forums and training for the renewable energy, construction, tourism and property sectors

• Established the ‘Let’s Get Growing’ Alliance including the delivery of a successful Residential Property Investment Seminar

• Established the Orana Region Industry network (ORIn) for the manufacturing sector

• Scoped and commissioned a City Mining Strategy• Facilitated the rollout of the national Broadband

network and commissioned a Dubbo Digital Economy Strategy

• Supported the ongoing delivery of the Evocities Program with major outcomes including:

– 40,923 visits to evocities.com.au, 294,060 visits to evojobs.com.au and 455 inquiries

– 212 media appearances with a reach of 5,688,690 people

– 185 confirmed new residents to Dubbo and 751 prospective new residents

• Supported the development of the draft tourism Destination Management Plan

• Developed the 2012 Dubbo City Guide, CBD Banner Program and three television campaigns and coordinated the Your Dubbo Program which is a $108,000 cooperative industry visitor campaign

• Attracted $231,198 in industry funding to support City Promotions initiatives and expanded Partnership Program to 156 members

• Commenced the rhino sculpture initiative in conjunction with taronga Western Plains Zoo

• Supported 94 local events including the delivery of the nSW Local Government Association Conference and the triple j One night Stand event

• Launched a mobile version of www.dubbo.com.au and increased annual web visitation by 23.5%.

Priorities for 2013/2014• Continue working with industry and

investment stakeholders to strengthen Dubbo’s economic position

• Implement initiatives identified in the Mining Strategy and undertake projects designed to position Dubbo as a regional centre for mining and mining-related business

• Implement Dubbo’s Digital Economy Strategy• Enhance the effectiveness of Evocities by

exploring partnership and funding opportunities• Implement the tourism Destination Management

Plan in partnership with stakeholders• Implement a Business Retention and Expansion

Program, and a Business Investment and Attraction Program

• Continue implementing the City Promotions Plan including the delivery of the second Your Dubbo campaign, City entrance signage and a ‘friends and relatives’ visitation campaign

• Continue to implement the Dubbo City Events Strategy including finalising a ‘tool box’ for event organisers and industry development workshops.

City development

22

CO-ORDINATORDirector Corporate Development Ken Rogers.

The upgrade of the Dubbo Regional Livestock Markets required significant input and collaboration with the licensed stock and station agents. The successful partnership is a major contributor to the Markets continuing to be the number one cattle-selling centre in NSW.

Achievements in 2012/2013• Contributed $901,000 to General Revenue from

Council’s business undertakings• Upgraded the Dubbo City Regional Airport

to a Category 3 Security Airport to meet legislative requirements relating to Qantaslink’s introduction of 74-seat aircraft. Council obtained a $969,000 Australian Government grant to help fund the Airport’s new security screening equipment

• Facilitated 170,195 passengers through the Airport terminal and more than 11,000 aircraft movements

• Commenced a $2.15M upgrade of the Dubbo City Regional Airport including extending the passenger terminal and car park

• Commenced a $4M upgrade and expansion of Dubbo Regional Livestock Markets (DRLM) including facilities for an additional 9000 sheep and improvements to the cattle selling complex

• Secured a $1.1M grant for safety and productivity improvements at the Markets

• the DRLM remained the number one selling-centre in nSW for cattle and number three for sheep sales; total throughput was 192,327 cattle, 1,227,724 sheep and 11,258 goats

• Hosted 68 livestock and 46 non-livestock events at Dubbo Showground including the 2012 Dubbo Show and the triple j One night Stand – a nationally televised event attracting 18,000 people

• Dubbo City Holiday Park revenue increased 8% on the previous year. this is on top of a 30% increase in revenue from 2010/2011 to 2011/2012

• 26 residential lots sold in the Keswick Estate Stage 2 Release 5.

Priorities for 2013/2014• Continue to contribute surpluses generated from

Council-owned businesses to General Revenue• Complete the expansion and upgrade of

the Dubbo Regional Livestock Markets and implement an Environmental Management Plan

• Complete the $2.15M Capital Works Program at the Dubbo City Regional Airport including extending the public car park, construct a shade structure in the secure car park and expand the Airport terminal departure area

• Investigate security options at Dubbo Showground, upgrade the Expo Centre and complete the Dubbo Showground Master Plan

• Complete the Keswick Estate Stage 4 residential land release. this will involve the development of 76 Lots with the first 33 being released by the end of the 2013 calendar year

• Obtain development approval for 200 lots in the Stage 5 Keswick Estate residential land release.

Corporate businessTo operate specific activities on a commercial basis that are customer-focused, best-practice, sustainable, enhance economic strength and provide a financial return to the community.

23

Stay warm

breathe easy

Store wood under cover in

a dry, ventilated area

Use only small logs of

seasoned, untreated wood

Increase the air supply if you

see your chimney smoking

Maintain a bright flame,

never let your heater smoulderIf you use a wood heater:

Make a difference

to the air you

breathe...Wood smoke

affects your

health and

pollutes the air

dubbo.nsw.gov.au/woodsmoke

Phone 6801 4000

For more information contact Dubbo City Council

Visit Council Administration Building, corner

of Church and Darling streets, Dubbo

CO-ORDINATORDirector

Environmental Services Melissa

Watkins.

The annual Sustainable City Expo features approximately 40 community and industry exhibitors. The partnership with industry helps improve awareness of sustainable solutions for businesses, households and individuals.

To ensure a clean, safe and healthy living environment for both present and future residents and visitors, maintain economic growth and development, and protect, preserve and enhance the natural and built environments.

Achievements in 2012/2013• Determined 615 Development and Complying

Development Applications totalling $179.9M. this included 174 residential dwellings with an average value of $278,565

• Issued 439 Construction Certificates• Undertook the first administrative review of the

Dubbo Local Environmental Plan 2011 (Dubbo LEP 2011)

• Developed and promoted e-services to enable online public access to land use and planning information

• Publicly exhibited and adopted the Dubbo Development Control Plan 2013 to replace the 13 existing Development Control Plans

• Approved grants totalling $11,900 to seven owners of heritage items through the Local Heritage Assistance Fund

• Implemented strategies from Council’s Environmental Management Plan – Dubbo ALIVE with achievements reported in the annual State of the Environment Report

• Commenced a major review and redevelopment of Dubbo ALIVE, integrating it with Dubbo 2036

• Implemented initiatives from the Bathurst, Orange, Dubbo (BOD) Sustainability Alliance’s Regional Environmental Sustainability Plan and the Environmental trust-funded Inspiring and Integrating Change project

• Coordinated the 2012 annual Sustainable City Expo, featuring 40 exhibitors and attracting more than 300 attendees

• Promoted and participated in the annual Companion Animals Welfare Scheme (CAWS); undertook pet safety education at schools and promoted Dubbo Pets Month

• Council Rangers responded to 142 animal attack/dangerous dog incidents and 2235 customer requests.

Priorities for 2013/2014

• Offer $15,000 in grants to assist owners of heritage items through the Local Heritage Assistance Fund

• Finalise reviews of the Commercial Areas Development Strategy, the Dubbo Floodplain Management Plan, Contaminated Lands Register, and the Energy Strategy and Salinity Strategy

• Further develop and promote e-services to enable online public access to land use and planning information and online approvals

• Finalise amendments to the Dubbo LEP 2011 resulting from the 2012 administrative review

• Develop an Urban Design Framework for Dubbo City

• Continue to promote and support the annual CAWS and Dubbo Pets Month

• Coordinate the 2013 annual Sustainable City Expo• Finalise a major review and redevelopment of

Dubbo ALIVE, integrating it with the Dubbo 2036 Integrated Plan

• Implement the Swimming Pools Barrier Program.

Built and natural environment

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CO-ORDINATORDirector Community Services David Dwyer.

Among many partnerships with non-government organisations, Council provides $165,000 a year to the Dubbo Neighbourhood Centre which provides a range of services including vacation and after school care, youth counselling, and family health and support programs for disadvantaged families in Dubbo.

Achievements in 2012/2013• Undertook flooring and roofing refurbishments

at the Western Plains Cultural Centre• Completed a $1.2M upgrade of the Dubbo

Regional theatre and Convention Centre kitchen, bar and Oxley Function Room, funded by the Australian Government

• Launched a web-based City of Dubbo Hall of Fame and invited nominations

• Hosted student delegations in Dubbo from Sister Cities Minokamo, Japan and Wujiang, China

• Completed an upgrade of the Wongarbon Hall and constructed a security fence around the South Dubbo Girl Guides Hall

• Completed a Conservation Management Plan for the Old Dubbo Gaol and formed an advisory committee including community representation

• Completed a Price Sensitivity Study of fees and charges at the Dubbo Aquatic Leisure Centre and expended $116,475 on repairs to the grandstand and gutters on the main Olympic Pool

• 64% of Dubbo’s population registered as members and borrowed 218,202 articles from the Dubbo Branch Library.

• 252,235 people visited Council’s cultural and recreational centres including the Old Dubbo Gaol (53,187); Dubbo Aquatic Leisure Centre (95,849); Western Plains Cultural Centre (74,016), and Dubbo Regional theatre and Convention Centre (27,707 attending ticketed performances)

• 599 children were enrolled in the Dubbo Family Day Care Scheme and the Rainbow Cottage Child Care Centre reported a 100% occupancy rate.

Priorities for 2013/2014• Select the first round of inductees for the City

of Dubbo Hall of Fame and hold a formal induction ceremony

• Introduce the ‘Prisoner 2830’ Program at the Old Dubbo Gaol which provides free entry for local residents

• Engage the newly formed Public Art Committee to finalise a Public Art Strategy for Dubbo

• Expend funds at the new Dubbo Cemetery on irrigation extensions, new concrete beams and an extended ashes section

• Complete a Recreation Strategy for Dubbo• Replace carpet at the Dubbo Pipe Band Hall• Commence a student exchange program with

Dubbo’s Sister City Wujiang, China• Host the nSW Annual Youth Council

Conference in november 2013 utilising a grant of $20,000 from Office of Communities

• Develop a Capital Upgrade Program to modernise the Convention Centre component of the Dubbo Regional theatre and Convention Centre.

Community servicesTo ensure the active engagement in a wide range of lifestyle opportunities which meet the social, multicultural, recreational, educational, cultural, entertainment and childcare needs of residents and visitors.

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CO-ORDINATORDirector

Community Services David

Dwyer.

In partnership with Western NSW Local Health Network Council operates a free, monthly immunisation clinic for young families.

To provide a safe and healthy human environment with access to a high standard of facilities and preventative programs to ensure the health and wellbeing of residents and visitors.

Achievements in 2012/2013• Ensured health regulation compliance by:

– Conducting inspections of public pools and spas on 213 occasions

– Conducting inspections of food premises on 303 occasions and registered premises on 58 occasions

• Administered 2,470 immunisations at Council’s free, monthly immunisation clinics in partnership with the Western nSW Local Health network

• Engaged community identities in a Water Safety Campaign targeting young people to raise awareness about the dangers of weirs, rivers, dams and pools

• Coordinated health programs which involved 330 community participants

• Registered and inspected seven premises containing water cooling towers

• Conducted a Wood Smoke Reduction Campaign, raising awareness about dangers associated with smoke from heaters and chimneys

• Continued lobbying for the redevelopment of the Dubbo Base Hospital

• Installed seven additional safety cameras in the Central Business District, with 27 now in operation

• Continued implementing the Dubbo City Crime Prevention Plan 2011-2014 which aims to address community safety and crime issues to help create a safer environment for those who reside in, work in or visit Dubbo.

• Participated in the Orana Crime Prevention Partnership, which focussed on the development of a crime profile and addressing issues such as assaults, malicious damage, and theft from motor vehicles.

Priorities for 2013/2014• Conduct 12 free, monthly immunisation clinics

in partnership with the Western nSW Local Health network

• Inspect every public pool and spa, registered premise, food premise and premise with water cooling towers to ensure compliance with health regulations

• Hold two meetings with Sydney University to discuss future development and operations of the University’s Rural Medical School in the City

• Review the Dubbo City Crime Prevention Plan• Continue participating in the Orana Crime

Prevention Partnership• Continue monitoring complaints relating to

licensed premises in Dubbo• Meet on a quarterly basis with local senior

officials of nSW Police to discuss service provision.

Human environment

26

CO-ORDINATORDirector Parks and Landcare Services Murray Wood.

Council maintains partnerships with local sporting groups and users of Council parks, gardens and sportsgrounds. From the association of Friends of the Regional Botanic Garden to facilitating the construction of a new amenities building, the evidence of these partnerships is throughout the City.

Achievements in 2012/2013• Commenced construction of the Barden Park

Regional Centre of Excellence for Athletics• Completed the Apex Oval Stormwater

Harvesting Project which will supply 49% of the facility’s annual irrigation requirements

• Further developed the Dubbo Regional Botanic Garden: completed Oasis Valley; installed a formal Japanese entrance gate at Shoyoen; engaged an Education Officer; and developed a website to promote the Garden

• Adopted draft master plans for Regand Park, Wiradjuri Park and the rehabilitation of Victoria Park

• Prepared draft master plans for the following Reserves: Mugga Hill, Cumboogle Flora, Wongarbon tank, Jones’ Creek and the  river reserves

• Installed sports field lighting at South Dubbo Oval and upgraded pedestrian lighting at Victoria Park

• Constructed a new playground at Alderman Mona Alice Berruex Park (formally South Dubbo Park)

• Constructed the Middleton and Korean War Memorials at Victoria Park

• Constructed tracker Riley Cycleway amenities at Dundullimal Reserve

• Facilitated the construction of Victoria Park no. 2 and 3 ovals’ clubhouse and amenities by the community

• Commenced the beautification of Brisbane Street with centre-row tree plantings (Wingewarra Street to talbragar Street)

• Constructed the mini Australian Football League (AFL) field and fence at South Dubbo Oval

• Upgraded the Victoria Park no.1 Oval main switchboard and refurbished the referees’ room.

Priorities for 2013/2014• Construct the Barden Park Regional Centre of

Excellence for Athletics grandstand, athletics track and sports lighting

• Construct the Riverbank Park boat ramp and renew the Riverbank Park tables and chairs

• Refurbish the Cenotaph at Victoria Park• Construct the Delroy north playground,

barbecues and shade sail and construct a new playground at Michael Duffy Park

• Construct multi-use courts at Wongarbon and complete the Elston Park Paramount tennis Courts

• Develop beautification plans for the Dubbo Local Government Area villages.

Parks and landcare servicesTo ensure that Dubbo residents and visitors have the opportunity to participate in a diverse range of sporting and passive recreational pursuits in a clean, green setting and to provide landcare services for the rehabilitation and protection of the urban and rural environment and to promote biodiversity in a cost-effective and efficient manner.

27

CO-ORDINATORSDirector

Organisational Services Craig

Giffin, Director Corporate

Development Ken Rogers, Director

Technical Services Stewart McLeod.

Dubbo City Council regularly seeks community opinion and input on Council’s operations through public exhibition of new policies and projects through to consultation on planning. This feedback is critical to ensuring the organisation remains effective and is delivering the services the community expects.

To provide sound management of the resources of Council, representative and responsive government, meet statutory requirements and provides services to the Organisation in a cost-effective and timely manner.

Achievements in 2012/2013• Complete review of the Dubbo 2036 Integrated

Planning documents undertaken, including public exhibition and community engagement

• Maintained Council’s strong financial position with cash, investments and high liquid debtors (excluding external and internal restrictions) within the target range of $1.5M and $2.5M

• Completed all statutory financial and community reporting in accordance with legislative requirements

• Commenced a formal corporate response to begin addressing the issues of financial sustainability and infrastructure backlogs

• Revised Asset Plans developed and adopted for the Corporation as part of the Integrated Planning and Reporting documents

• Managed 96,105 individual requests through Council’s Customer Service Centre

• Conducted the 2013 Biennial Community needs Survey with 70.81% of respondents satisfied with the overall operations of Council

• Completed a diagnostic review of Council’s Risk Management Systems

• Developed and implemented a Flexible Workplace Policy

• Launched Council’s internal intranet facility ‘Councilpedia’ to improve internal communications and information sharing

• Conducted an all-staff climate survey to gauge employee opinions about work, life and growth at Council

• Developed and implemented a Disaster Recovery Plan for Information Management

• Council’s fleet of plant, equipment and motor vehicles met targeted usage rates with operational costs within benchmark rates

• Implemented the 2012/2013 Corporate Communications Strategy and developed the 2013/2014 plan

• Produced and distributed the 2011/2012 Annual Report to Residents and 2011/2012 Statutory Annual Report.

Priorities for 2013/2014• Undertake the 2014 Review of the Dubbo

2036 Integrated Plan• Complete a staged response to address

Council’s backlog of infrastructure works• Continue sound financial management

including quarterly financial reviews• Implement an enhanced staff performance

management system• Develop and implement a revised Enterprise

Risk Management Framework• Further develop the Organisation’s Work Heath

and Safety systems• Implement a Leadership Development Program• Implement and report on the 2013/2014

Corporate Communications Strategy• Produce and distribute the 2012/2013 Statutory

Annual Report.

Corporate services

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Summary of statutory report

State of the Environment ReportEach year Council prepares a State of the Environment Report, which focuses on major environmental issues. this report will be available for viewing at Council’s Civic Administration Building, Church Street and the Dubbo Branch Library from December 2013, as well as Council’s website www.dubbo.nsw.gov.au

Condition of Public WorksCouncil maintains a network of 1265 km of local and regional roads, which is made up of rural and urban roads, including footpaths and cycleways, with the 2012/2013 maintenance program totalling $4.614M ($3,647 per kilometre).

In 2012/2013, Council spent $72,478 on the maintenance of urban drainage infrastructure.

Council’s sewerage system services 14,272 properties with maintenance expenditure of $0.9M. the water supply system services 15,259 properties, costing $1.4M to maintain.

Legal proceedingsCouncil was involved in three legal proceedings during 2012/2013, at a total cost of $28,520.

Major contracts awardedSixteen contracts valued in excess of $10.2M were awarded by Council in 2012/2013.

Senior staffCouncil employs six senior staff as defined under the requirements of the Local Government Act 1993 with these being the General Manager, Director technical Services, Director Corporate Development, Director Environmental Services, Director Organisational Services and Director Parks and Landcare Services.

the total amount spent on employing these senior staff was $1,299,598. this amount includes salaries, fringe benefits tax, private use of a Council vehicle and employer’s superannuation contributions.

General Manager $279,788

Director technical Services $241,954

Director Environmental Services $209,235

Director Organisational Services $201,626

Director Corporate Development $198,620

Director Parks and Landcare Services $168,375

The Bushfire Management Committeethe Bush Fire Management Committee held two meetings to discuss land management and fuel reduction issues. the nSW Rural Fire Service provided funding of $40,000 to Council to assist it with roadside vegetation management and hazard reduction activities during 2012/2013.

Multicultural servicesCouncil has procedures in place for providing interpreter services to the 10.5% of Dubbo residents over the age of five, who were born overseas and the 3% who speak a language other than English at home. Council’s Multicultural Festival Advisory Committee again organised the popular Multicultural Festival, held in September 2012. In 2012/2013, 64 people became Australian citizens at Council Citizenship ceremonies.

ContributionsCouncil contributed a total of $362,519 to 50 organisations under Section 356 of the Local Government Act 1993.

Private worksthere were no private works undertaken by Council in 2012/2013 which were fully or partly subsidised by Council.

Under the Local Government Act 1993, Dubbo City Council must provide certain information on its operations to the Minister for Local Government. This information is summarised below and full details are available in the Statutory Annual Report which will be available for viewing from December 2013 at the following locations:

• Council’s Civic Administration Building

• Macquarie Regional Library Dubbo Branch

• Online at www.dubbo.nsw.gov.au

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External bodies exercising Council functionsthere are no external bodies exercising functions delegated by the Council.

Overseas travelthe Mayor, Councillor Dickerson, visited Minokamo during 2012/2013 to attend the 2013 Minokamo Symposium. the trip was at the full expense of the Mayor and at no cost to Council.

Partnerships, co-operatives and joint venturesCouncil was involved in joint ventures with the Macquarie Regional Library, Bathurst/Orange/Dubbo Alliance of Councils, CEntROC Weight of Loads Groups, Lower Macquarie Water Utilities Alliance, Central West Salinity Water Alliance, Orana Region Organisation of Councils, Evocities and netwaste.

Controlling interests in companiesCouncil held no controlling interest in any companies in 2012/2013.

Public access to informationIn 2012/2013, Council received seven applications for information under the Government Information (Public Access) Act 2009. Access was granted in full to all applications in accordance with the requirements of the Act.

Human Resource activitiesA review of Council’s 2012/2013 Safety Systems Plan and the development of a new plan for 2013/2014 were conducted by the Workplace Safety Advisor. the Plan helps to ensure Council’s compliance with the Work Health and Safety Act 2011 and its associated Regulation through the development, implementation and review of policies, procedures and systems.

the turnover rate for the period 1 July 2012 to 30 June 2013 was 10.35%; down 0.67% on the previous year. Recruitment activity in 2012/2013 totalled 64 new appointments with an average time to fill positions of 6.89 weeks, 0.72 weeks more than the 2011/2012 reporting period.

In managing recruitment, selection and induction processes, Council’s Human Resource Services Branch ensured the application of fair and equitable processes and maintenance of the principles of merit and Equal Employment Opportunity.

Services and programs for childrenthe proportion of children and youth in Dubbo’s population is higher than the State average. Council has factored this knowledge into its planning for new facilities by providing a diverse range of recreation and sporting facilities such as playgrounds, sporting fields, skate park, BMX track, cycleways and the Dubbo Aquatic Leisure Centre.

In addition, Council directly operates the Rainbow Cottage Child Care Centre and the Family Day Care Scheme. It provides a venue for the Yarrandale and north Dubbo play groups, Girl Guides, West Dubbo Pre School, Dubbo and District Pre School and Orana Early Intervention Centre.Council also supports the Dubbo City Youth Council which co-ordinates a comprehensive annual Youth Week program.

Privacy managementthe Privacy and Personal Information Protection Act 1998 was introduced to provide central safeguards to an individual’s privacy in relation to a wide variety of personal information held by public sector agencies such as Council.

In accordance with the Act, Council, on 26 June 2000, adopted a Privacy Management Plan, which outlines policies and practices to ensure compliance with the requirements of the Act. no applications were made for information under the Act and accordingly, no review of Council’s Privacy Management Plan has been required.

Elected memberstotals of $37,308 and $188,055 were paid during the period for Mayoral and Councillor fees respectively, with an additional $20,167 for Councillors’ travel and subsistence. From the September 2012 Council elections up until 30 June 2013, there were 8 Ordinary Council meetings and two Extraordinary Council meetings. Attendance at these meetings was as follows:

Ordinary Meetings

Extraordinary Meetings

Cr Mathew Dickerson 8 2

Cr Lyn Griffiths 6 2

Cr Bill Kelly 8 2

Cr Greg Matthews 7 1

Cr Greg Mohr 8 1

Cr Kevin Parker 8 2

Cr tina Reynolds 4 1

Cr Ben Shields 8 2

Cr Allan Smith 6 1

Cr Rod towney 8 2

Cr John Walkom 8 1

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Incomestatement

Statement of financial position

Actual 2013

Actual 2012

$ ’000

INCOME FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS

REVENUE

Rates and annual charges 38,300 37,084

User charges and fees 32,171 25,827

Interest and investment revenue 3,334 3,280

Other revenues 1,135 889

Grants and contributions provided for operating purposes 11,721 13,837

Grants and contributions provided for capital purposes 13,711 12,397

OTHER INCOME

net gains from the disposal of assets 3,619 –

net Share of interests in joint Ventures and Associated Entities using the equity method

11 –

Total income from continuing operations 104,002 93,314

ExPENSES FROM CONTINUING OPERATIONS

Employee benefits and on-costs 25,907 21,382

Borrowing costs 3,691 3,713

Materials and contracts 20,776 15,859

Depreciation and amortisation 26,736 22,829

Electricity and heating 3,514 2,907

Contributions and donations 1,801 1,739

Insurance 1,487 1,445

Family Day Care (fees) 1,313 1,184

Other expenses 4,607 3,830

net losses on disposal of assets – 1,665

net share of interests in joint ventures and associated entities using the equity method

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Total expenses from continuing operations 89,832 76,572

Net operating result for the year 14,170 16,742

Net operating result attributable to Council 14,170 16,742

Net operating result for the year before grants and contributions provided for capital purposes

459 4,345

Actual 2013

Actual 2012

$’000

ASSETS

CURRENT ASSETS

Cash and cash equivalents 10,062 7,538

Investments 41,930 33,814

Receivables 9,331 9,060

Inventories 968 1,034

Other 906 462

Total current assets 63,197 51,908

NON-CURRENT ASSETS

Investments 26,488 21,080

Receivables 1,026 1,074

Inventories 1,982 2,134

Infrastructure, property, plant and equipment 1,447,932 1,433,545

Investments accounted for using the equity method 890 879

Other 495 463

Total non-current assets 1,478,813 1,459,175

TOTAL ASSETS 1,542,010 1,511,083

LIABILITIES

CURRENT LIABILITIES

Payables 4,704 4,218

Borrowings 1,829 1,629

Provisions 10,981 10,342

Total current liabilities 17,514 16,189

NON-CURRENT LIABILITIES

Payables 1 2

Borrowings 52,026 52,413

Provisions 960 979

Total non-current liabilities 52,987 53,394

TOTAL LIABILITIES 70,501 69,583

Net assets 1,471,509 1,441,500

EqUITY

Retained earnings 756,565 742,395

Revaluations reserves 714,944 699,105

Total equity 1,471,509 1,441,500

For the Financial Year ended 30 June 2013 As at 30 June 2013

Connecting Council and the community

COUnCIL’S COntACt DIRECtORYBuilding and DevelopmentProfessional Building and Planning Duty Officers are available for consultation without appointment within the core hours of 1pm to 5pm, Monday to Friday. Customer service staff and duty officers can be contacted by telephone on 6801 4000 via Council’s Customer Service Centre. Pre-lodgement meetings can be arranged outside these times by appointment. Online planning/building enquiries can be submitted at this link on Council’s website: www.dubbo.nsw.gov.au/PlanningandDevelopment/AskAPlanner

Dubbo Aquatic Leisure Centre (02) 6801 4490

Dubbo City Animal Shelter (02) 6882 1934

Dubbo City Holiday Park 1800 824 820

Dubbo City Regional Airport (02) 6801 4560 (Administration) 0417 717 871 (Grounds Operations)

Dubbo Regional Livestock Markets (02) 6801 4540

Dubbo Regional Theatre and Convention Centre (02) 6801 4371 (General) (02) 6801 4378 (Box Office)

Dubbo Showground (02) 6801 4570

Dubbo Visitors Information Centre (02) 6801 4450

Family Day Care (02) 6801 4470

Fire Control (02) 6881 3900

Immunisation Clinic (02) 6801 4000

Macquarie Regional Library – Dubbo Branch (02) 6801 4510

Old Dubbo Gaol (02) 6801 4460

Rainbow Cottage Child Care Centre (02) 6801 4480

Western Plains Cultural Centre (02) 6801 4444

After Hours Emergencies (02) 6801 4000

CONTACTING COUNCILCustomer Service Centrethe Customer Service Centre is Dubbo City Council’s one-stop-shop of information for the general public. Specially-trained customer service staff manage all face-to-face and telephone enquiries, from 9am to 5pm, Monday to Friday. Phone 6801 4000.

CorrespondenceAll correspondence to Council should be addressed to the General Manager and also marked to the relevant officer’s attention, and sent to:Dubbo City Council, PO Box 81, DUBBO nSW 2830telephone: (02) 6801 4000 Facsimile: (02) 6801 4259 Email: dcc@dubbo.nsw.gov.au

COUNCIL NOTICESCouncil Column: Every thursday a ‘Council Column’ is published in the Daily Liberal newspaper, featuring information about proposed developments, draft policies, positions vacant, tenders, quotations, public notices, and Council and Committee meeting dates and times.

this information is also available on Council’s website: www.dubbo.nsw.gov.au

City Connection: Council publishes a weekly news page in the Dubbo Photo news called City Connection to promote Council’s many activities, upcoming events, notices and initiatives.

Council’s website can be accessed at www. dubbo.nsw.gov.au. the website includes up-to-date information about Council services, as well as media releases, public notices, positions vacant, submitting development applications, education kits for school children, booking information for parks and sporting ovals and

various other documents relating to Council operations. Council’s website also contains email addresses and phone numbers to assist the general public contact the City’s elected representatives.

Village News: Council distributes a quarterly newsletter to all residents living in Wongarbon, Eumungerie, Brocklehurst and Ballimore.

Twitter and FacebookDubbo City Council provides regular updates on social media channels twitter (@DubboCouncil and @ DubboCity), Facebook (fb.com/DubboCity and fb.com/Dubbo2036)

ACCESSING INFORMATIONPublic documentsDubbo City Council provides a number of documents to inform the community about Council operations. these include:

• Dubbo 2036 Integrated Plan• Statutory Annual Report• Business Plans for Council services

and businesses.these documents can be accessed at Council’s Civic Administration Building or at the Dubbo Branch Library, or by contacting the Customer Service Centre on 6801 4000.

Public OfficerCouncil’s Public Officer, Craig Giffin, can provide information on Council’s financial reports, Equal Employment Opportunity Policy and other policy documents, management plans, and information under the Government Information (Public Access) Act. the Public Officer can be contacted on 6801 4000.

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DUBBO CITY COUNCILCivic Administration Building PO Box 81, Dubbo nSW 2830

Phone: (02) 6801 4000 Fax: (02) 6801 4259 Email: dcc@dubbo.nsw.gov.au Web: www.dubbo.nsw.gov.au

CUSTOMER SERVICE CENTRE HOURS:9am-5pm, Monday to Friday, Civic Administration Building, Cnr Church and Darling Streets, Dubbo

All enquiries, including after hours emergencies, phone (02) 6801 4000

partnerships