Agenda of Ordinary Council Meeting

MURRAY RIVER COUNCIL Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

27 April 2021

9.2 Director Shared Services Report and Supplementary Matters

9.2.1 FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND INVESTMENTS AS AT 31 MARCH 2021

File Number: -

Author: Abbas Mehr, Financial Accountant

Authoriser: Terry Dodds, Chief Executive Officer

Recommendation

That the Officer’s report on FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND INVESTMENTS AS AT 31 MARCH 2021 be received and the information noted by the Council.

1. The report detailing the Council’s Position of $ 49,773,531.17 as at 31^st March 2021 is received.

2. The report detailing Council’s Investment balance of $ 48,037,859.69 as at 31^st March, 2021 received.

background

Discussion

REPORT – BANK RECONCILIATION

Shown below are the Financial Statements, Bank Reconciliations and Investments for the period ending 31^st March 2021.

STATEMENT OF BANK BALANCES AS AT 31^st MARCH 2021 OF COUNCIL’S COMBINED ACCOUNTS

INTERNAL CASH BOOK BALANCES

OVERDRAFT LIMITS: Bank Overdraft - $ 650,000.00

I hereby certify that the Cashbook of the various funds of Council has been reconciled, with the appropriate Pass Sheets as 31^st March 2021.

Terry Dodds

Chief Executive Officer / Acting Director Shared Services

REPORT INVESTMENTS AS AT 31^st MARCH 2021

As required by Section 212 of the Local Government (General) Regulation 2005 and Section 625 of the Local Government Act 1993, the details of Council’s surplus funds invested, totalling $48,037,859.69 are listed below.

STRATEGIC IMPLICATIONS

5 – Strategic Theme 5: Leadership and Governance

5.1 – An effective, efficient and progressive Council that provides leadership to the community.

5.1.2 – Council acts in a financially responsible manner to ensure deliver of safe and sustainable services to the community.

BUDGETARY IMPLICATIONS

Continual low interest rates may have a negative impact on the expected interest value.

POLICY IMPLICATIONS

Investments are made in accordance with the Council’s Investment Policy which was adopted on

the 27 October 2020

LEGISLATIVE IMPLICATIONS

Section 625 of the Local Government Act 1993

Regulation 212 of the Local Government (General) Regulations 2005

Trustees Act 1925 Section 14

RISK ANALYSIS

· What can happen?

Imprudent use of council’s financial resources

· How can it happen?

Not following investment rules, policies or mandates

· What are the consequences of the event happening?

Potential loss of financial resources

· What is the likelihood of the event happening?

Low

· Adequacy of existing controls?

Good

· Treatment options to mitigate the risk?

Responsible management of financial resources invested in accordance with Council’s investment policies and mandate.

CONCLUSION

Murray River Council’s liquidity is in a satisfactory position at 31^st March 2021.

Attachments

Nil

MURRAY RIVER COUNCIL Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

27 April 2021

9.3 Director Operations and Major Projects Report and Supplementary Matters

9.3.1 Major Projects Progress Update

File Number: -

Author: Matthew Sherman, Project Coordinator

Authoriser: Scott Barber, Director Operations & Major Projects

Recommendation

That the Officer’s report on Major Projects Progress Update as at 12 April 2021 be received and the information noted by the Council.

Purpose

To inform elected officials and the community about the progress of externally and internally funded major infrastructure projects.

Discussion

Major Projects currently manage the delivery of 44 projects across Murray River Council including community infrastructure, strategic assets, water services and transport network projects. All projects continue to be delivered on time and within budget, with several projects approaching final stages of completion across Council.

Major Projects also commenced 2021/22 budget planning and preparation, project prioritisation and alignment with the Community Strategic Plan - Improved Built and Physical Environment (Theme 1). Major Projects maintains its partnership with Community and Economic Development Team to secure available external funding opportunities, and to meet our reporting obligations to further strengthen our positive relationship with funding providers.

Major Road Projects Victoria - Echuca / moama BridGe update

· Precast concrete “Super-Tee” beams were installed on all remaining Victorian bridge approach spans to the Murray River and were installed for the NSW flood relief structure.

· Concrete bridge deck pours have been completed for the Campaspe River Bridge, with barriers to be installed in coming months. Concrete bridge deck pours have also commenced on the bridge approach spans to the Murray River.

· Assembly of the large travelling form machines for construction of the main span of the Murray River is underway, with installation to occur in April. Segmental construction of the main span will commence at this time.

· Construction of pavement, drainage and shared user paths continue. Topsoiling of earthworks batters has commenced along with construction of noise wall foundations on the Victorian side.

PRoject Highlight Report – Bridges

Murray River Council continues to maintain its long-term commitment to our improved built and physical environment being well planned, connected, safe and designed to support our communities, industries, and businesses. As part of this commitment, Council has progressively replaced old timber bridges that are no longer safe or functional for today’s requirements. Council gratefully secured funding through the NSW Fixing Country Bridges Program to replace all remaining 5 timber bridge projects in the next two years.

One active timber bridge replacement project is the construction of the Nacurrie Road North / Middle Creek Bridge, shown in the photos below.

Funded under the Australian Government's Local Roads and Community Infrastructure Program, once complete this bridge will provide surrounding communities and businesses year-round access.

Photos in the ‘before’ section show the previous state of the bridge, with ‘construction’ photos showing works progress. The Nacurrie Road North / Middle Creek Bridge has now completed the pouring of the concrete deck and is anticipated to finish 2 months ahead of schedule.

Before Construction: During Construction:

Major Projects also has an additional 8 Bridge Projects currently in progress listed below with a summary of project progress.

Nearest Town	Location	Status
Gonn	Drysdale Lane/Merran Creek Bridge	Site Surveying and Geotechnical Investigation complete. Drafting of tender documentation in progress. Construction to be completed by 30/06/2023 for all Bridges.
Barham	Sandys Road/Barber Creek Bridge
Neimur	Frasers Road/Murrain Yarrein Creek Bridge
Mallan	Tooranie Road/Yarrein Creek Bridge
Mellool	Nacurrie Road South/Merran Creek Bridge	Precast beams, piles, headstocks, and abutments are awaiting site delivery and installation. Project expected to be completed by 30/06/2021.
Moulamein	Moulamein-Swan Hill Road (MR386)/Yarrein Creek Bridge	On the Market for Tender. Contracted will be awarded for construction to commence 1/07/2021.
Burraboi	Rangemore Road/Jimaringle Creek Bridge	Precast beams, piles, headstocks, and abutments complete. Site works yet to commence. On track for delivery 31/07/2021.
Moulamein	Moulamein-Barham Road (MR319)/Edward River Bridge	Bridge repairs expected to commence 30/04/2021 and are anticipated to be completed by the 30/06/2021.

MURRAY RIVER COUNCIL Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

27 April 2021

SCF, SCCF, Showgrounds & RGF

Please refer to the image below highlighting project updates:

Location	Project Title	Project Manager	Project Phase	% Works Complete	Status	Total Cost	% Spent	Comments
Barham	Recreation Reserve Multi-Sports Pavilion - Stage 1 & 2	LK	Construction	98%	On Track	$2,538,241	99%	SCCF3 funds approaching completion. Outstanding works: Car Park completion & Landscaping.
Barham	Barham Recreation Reserve	LK	Delivered	95%	On Track	$197,727	94%	Entry box and Parkman Avenue entrance completed. Lighting installed. Internal road upgrades in progress. Community BBQ procured. Expected delivery 4 weeks.
Barham	Riverside Park Development Riverside Park - Stabilisation of riverbank	OM	Preliminary Design	16%	On Track	$171,000	0%	Designs complete. Agency consultation in progress. Next steps: Request for quotation for construction.
Moama	Business Park (Industrial Estate) Expansion	BG	Approval	40%	On Track	$1,195,000	51%	Land Acquired from RRGC. Gas main extension completed. Currently creating scope for subdivision design works. Request for quotation for design to be released once complete.
Moama	Recreation Reserve Zone 2 - installation of sports field lighting, car park upgrade, field extension (Eddy Oval)	LK	Delivered	98%	On Track	$764,963	93%	New entry design completed. Works expected to commence within 2 weeks. Lighting defects continue to be rectified by contractor.
Multiple	Facilitate Active Participation in Recreation - Bunnaloo Courts, - Wakool Court, - Mathoura Court, - Barham Court, - Murray Downs Cycling Track - Koraleigh Court	LK	Original Scope Complete - additional work Progress.	100%	On Track	$370,765	102%	Initial scope of work completed for Project. Variation to include additional works approved. Barham Recreation Reserve footpath complete. All works now completed except Moulamein netball courts due to base layer failure. Final Reports to be completed and submitted to GMO Office.
Moama	Foreshores Development - Horseshoe Lagoon	OM	Preliminary Design	15%	On Track	902,542	3%	Foot bridge design consultants appointed and foot bridge design in progress. Request for quotation for review of environmental factors delivered to market.
Moama	Foreshores Development - Beach Amenities Block	OM	Procurement	15%	On Track	$200,000	11%	Designs to be completed week ending 17/04/2021. Tender documentation ready for review upon receiving design documentation. Review of environmental factors has progressed. Responses from Aboriginal Land Council and Heritage NSW have been slow.
Moama	Foreshores Development - Riverside Retaining Walls	OM	Preliminary Design	10%	On Track	$400,000	0%	Design Consultants appointed. Design now in progress. Request for quotation for review of environment delivered to the market.
Multiple	Wakool Recreation Reserve Playground, Moulamein South Recreation Reserve Playground, Tooleybuc Mensforth Park - Play space, Moama Adventure Playpark Upgrade, Wakool Township Exercise Equipment	LK	Original Work Complete - Variation Approved	100%	On Track	$212,308	98%	Approval for variation to scope to add for Moulamein South Rec Reserve for pedestrian crossing and lighting approved by Grants Management Office - Department of Regional NSW. Funding Deeds signed and returned.
Murray Downs	Exercise track/footpath and equipment	LK	Delivered	95%	On Track	$174,023	67%	Pathway construction from Kidman Reid Drive to Swan Hill Rd to commence. Procurement completed and contractor appointed.
Tooleybuc	Mensforth Park Upgrade	LK	Construction	95%	On Track	$860,000	81%	Procurement complete. Contractor appointment commenced. Reviewing available budget and scope of works prior to commencement of works. Construction expected to begin within two weeks.
Wakool	Wakool Recreation Reserve	LK	Delivered	97%	On Track	$220,909	0%	All works complete. Awaiting final invoices to complete final reporting to funding bodies.

Roads, bRidges, Assets & Water

Please refer to the image below highlighting project updates:

Location	Project Title	Project Manager	Project Phase	% Works Complete	Status	Total Cost	% Spent	Comments
Wakool	Rehabilitation and widening MR94 (Wakool Road) 52.2 - 54.2km	FG	Construction	100%	On Track	$840,000	51%	Sealed 2.0km. Line marking outstanding
Hollins	Hollins Lane - 8km to 9km	FG	Construction	15%	On Track	$1,260,000	5%	Construction commenced.
Barham	Barham-Deniliquin/Barham Road - 14.0km to 21.75km	FG	Construction	90%	On Track	$6,223,367	77%	Construction in progress. On track to be completed mid-June 2021.
Moama	Seal - 24 Lane	FG	Construction	30%	On Track	$882,000	10%	Construction of the first 1.0km will be completed by mid-April 2021.
Barham	Seal - Cincotta Lane	FG	Construction	75%	On Track	$240,000	75%	In progress - Work will be completed by mid-April 2021.
Moama	Seal - Gilmour Road	FG	Construction	36%	On Track	$1,152,000	23%	First 1.5km of road seal completed. The rest will be completed during 21/22 financial year.
Noorong	Noorong Road Widen Shoulders	FG	Construction	100%	On Track	$345,000	85%	Construction completed. Line marking outstanding.
Bunnaloo	Bunnaloo Road Widen Shoulders	FG	Construction	35%	On Track	$223,050	22%	Construction underway. Work to be completed by 23 April 2021.
Moulamein	Moulamein-Barham Road (MR319)/Edward River Bridge	OM	Approval	15%	On Track	$295,000	0%	Due to complete repairs by 30th June 2021. Scheduled for commencement of repairs by 30/04/2021.
Mellool	Nacurrie Road North / Middle Creek Bridge	OM	Construction	75%	On Track	$500,000	8%	Concrete Deck Poured on 12/04/2021. Project on track to be completed by 30/04/2021 ahead of scheduled completed date 30/06/2021.
Mellool	Nacurrie Road South / Merran Creek Bridge	OM	Construction	15%	On Track	$500,000	0%	Construction work on site commences on 19/04/2021. Beams, piles, precast headstocks, and precast abutments have been cast and ready to deliver to site. On schedule for delivery by 30/06/2021.
Moama	Construct Lignum Road	FG	Construction	50%	On Track	$680,000	37%	Construction will be completed by mid-April 2021.
Water	Smart Water Meter Replacement Program - Stage 1 & 2	JB	Construction	75%	On Track	$4,124,305	69%	Raw meter installed for previously unmetered communities currently underway. Barham approaching completion, once completed Moulamein install will commence.
Multiple	Crown land - Develop Plans of Management	LK	Construction	10%	On Track	$92,888	0%	Works with CT Management on-going.
LGA	Aerial Imagery Capture	BG	Delivered	100%	On Track	$167,000	100%	Works completed.
LGA	Transport Asset Condition Assessment & Valuation	BG	Construction	90%	On Track	$529,910	86%	Works continuing - all raw data now received, currently finalising revaluation
LGA	Building, Land, Facility & Plant Assessment	BG	Procurement	50%	On Track	$442,888	36%	Works continuing - Building and plant data collection now complete, currently finalising data set and moving on to valuation and reporting component
Mathoura	Picnic Point Beach upgrade	OM	Preliminary Design	10%	On Track	$360,000	6%	Detailed design in progress following conclusion of the review of the design by Council and community. Next: Tenders for construction
Murray Downs	Murray Downs Foreshore Boat ramp and associated works	OM	Planning & Permits	10%	On Track	$920,000	1%	Procurement of consultancy services in progress. Next step: Detailed design
Burraboi	Rangemore Road/Jimaringle Creek Bridge	OM	Construction	10%	On Track	$735,000	6%	Beams, piles, precast headstocks, precast abutments complete. Site works yet to commence. On schedule for delivery 31/07/2021.
Gonn	Drysdale Lane/Merran Creek Bridge CR	OM	Preliminary Design	10%	On Track	$70,000	5%	Site Surveying Complete. Geotechnical investigation complete. Drafting of Tender Documentation in progress. Tenders to be issued by end of June 2021. Construction to be completed by 30/06/2023
Barham	Sandys Road/Barber Creek Bridge CR	OM	Preliminary Design	10%	On Track	$70,000	5%
Neimur	Frasers Road/Murrain Yarrein Creek Bridge CR	OM	Preliminary Design	10%	On Track	$70,000	5%
Mallan	Tooranie Road/Yarrein Creek Bridge CR	OM	Preliminary Design	10%	On Track	$70,000	4%

Major Projects completed in the last 24 months

Location	Project Title	Construction Complete
Barham	Community Hub – Stage 1	July 2020
Barham	Recreation Reserve Skate Park	March 2019
Barham	Bridge Road Access	December 2019
Barham	Riverside Park Development – Pontoon	October 2020
Barham	Lawson Pavilion Refurbishment 1-2	February 2021
Mathoura	Recreation Reserve Pavilion Ext, Kitchen & Bar	May 2019
Mathoura	Picnic Point Development (footbridges)	June 2020
Mathoura	Picnic Point Boat Ramp	July 2020
Moama	Recreation Reserve Zone 4 Lights / Criterion Track/ Landscape	March 2019
Moama	New Office Car Park Upgrade	December 2019
Moama	Recreation Reserve Road Sealing and Drainage	December 2019
Moama	HQ refurbishment Stage 1	January 2020
Moama	Rec Reserve Zone 2 – Installation of sports field lighting, car park upgrade, field extension (Eddy Oval)	August 2020
Moama	Rec Reserve Zone 3 – Off Leash Area	August 2020
Moama	Moama Recreation Reserve – Showground Stimulus Funding	October 2020
Moama	Business Park (Industrial Estate) – Water Pump Upgrade	January 2021
Moulamein	Merran Creek Bridge - Moulamein-Swan Hill Road	June 2020
Moulamein	Pre-School	October 2020
Moulamein	South Rec Reserve renewal surface and lights and shelter shed / Tennis courts	June 2020
Tooleybuc	Recreation Reserve Irrigation System Upgrade	January 2020
Tooleybuc	Foreshores Development - Pontoon	November 2019
Tooleybuc	Mensforth Park Footpath and Lighting	November 2019
Tooleybuc	Mensforth Park Upgrade Stage 1	March 2020
Tooleybuc	Recreation Reserve Amenities Building	October 2020
Wakool	New Toilet Block	July 2020
Wakool	Ezy Dump installation – Wakool Recreation Reserve	February 2021
Various	Playgrounds – Wakool Rec Reserve, Moulamein South Rec Reserve, Tooleybuc Mensforth Park, Moama Adventure Playpark, Wakool Township Exercise Equipment	July 2019

CONCLUSION

All projects in progress remain on track for delivery within set timeframes and approved budgets. Council continues to maintain its pace in securing available funding in addition to undertaking planning and approvals for future projects in alignment with Council and Government strategic priorities.

Attachments

Nil

MURRAY RIVER COUNCIL Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

27 April 2021

9.3.2 Essential Energy Street Light Replacement Program

File Number: -

Author: Scott Barber, Director Operations & Major Projects

Authoriser: Terry Dodds, Chief Executive Officer

Recommendation

That Council;

1. Note that Essential Energy will be replacing 1,311 halogen luminaires with Light Emitting Diodes (LEDs) within Murray River Council

2. Agree to retain decorative lights where already installed; and

3. Pay Essential Energy costs upfront and start collecting savings upon program completion.

Background

Essential Energy (EE) owns 165,000 streetlights, across 85 regional councils, of which 20% are already Light Emitting Diode (LED). EE is working with Councils to replace 90% of the non-LEDs under their Bulk Lamp Replacement (BLR) program by 2024.

In late 2018, a LED tender was undertaken by EE to provide a range of LED luminaries to replace an estimated 98% of the existing non-LED technology streetlights within the 2019-2024 regulatory period. A significant benefit from the EE tender process was the improvement in quality of product and reduction in energy consumption that has further improved the value of LED compared to older technology.

The Southern Lights Group of 42 Councils, included in the procurement process an option for ‘Smart ready’ LED’s including an extra zhaga port, enabling the addition of small sensors to support ‘Smart Cities’ applications.

The Southern Lights Street Lighting project is a collaborative initiative across the Canberra Region Joint Organisation, Central NSW Joint Organisation, RAMJO, REROC including Broken Hill, Balranald and Wentworth Councils. Its goal was the deployment of 75,000 smart-ready LED streetlights commencing in late 2019 and expected to be completed by late 2022.

Figure 1: Southern Lights NSW

https://southernlightsnsw.org.au/

LED is the latest technology in energy efficient lighting. A Light Emitting Diode is a semiconductor device that converts electricity into light.

A LED light uses almost 5 times less energy than a standard Halogen globes and lasts over 7 times longer. The total life cycle operating cost of LED luminaries is significantly lower than retaining the existing technology when considering both maintenance and energy savings.

Further, LED’s provide more uniform and reliable lighting creating safer public spaces for the community, and reduced greenhouse emissions into the environment.

This saves energy and money plus reduces the number of globes ending up in landfill.

Discussion

This Essential Energy LED Upgrade Program has accelerated Council conversions to LED technology. Essential Energy has scheduled the 6-week upgrade of 1,311 LED luminaires at Murray River Council around September-October 2021.

A LED luminaire is the complete lighting unit consisting of light emitting elements with parts for light distribution, position and protection, and to connect the unit to a branch circuit.

Light Replacement Options:

1. Basic replacement after rebates is in the rage of $542,000-$600,000 and projected annual power savings of $91,000.

2. Replacement retaining decorative lights in various parts of the towns, costing within the range of $664,000-$720,000 (MRC revised figure) and savings are $84,000/yr.

Figure 2: Decorative Lights

Table 1: Essential Energy LED upgrade estimates - costs, savings and environmental benefits

Residential Lift Costs	Number of lights	Total Payable to EE*	Net CAPEX to Council	Annual Saving	Greenhouse Gas Saved (tCO₂-e/MWh)	Carbon Saving Equivalent cars on the road
Retain Decorative Lights	1311	$800,000	$744,000	$83,820	256	112
Basic Lights	1311	$665,000	$601,000	$91,210	293	128

*Added 10% contingency to Essential Energy’s cost estimates

Strategic Implications

1 - Strategic Theme 1: Built/Physical Environment

1.2 - Improve and maintain our road and transport network

1.2.1 - Develop long-term plans for maintenance and construction of town streets and the rural road network - with priorities established in conjunction with the community

Budgetary Implications

After discussion with Finance, Council should budget $800,000, as the estimated costs from Essential Energy have varied from $689,000 to $720,000 so far.

Council will receive a rebate in the order of $56,000 from Essential Energy once the upgrade is complete and ongoing savings of at least $84,000 per year. The return on investment is approximately 11.3% per annum.

Costs will be refined closer to the installation by Essential Energy.

Council Payment Options;

1. Council can pay upfront; or

2. Council do not pay upfront and track Essential Energy using savings to pay the difference for 10 years.

Albury City Council has paid upfront, to avoid a decade of administration and checking that the power distributer (Essential Energy) is recouping the right savings, and so they could realise savings immediately.

Policy Implications

Murray River Council Asset Management Policy (POL305).

Legislative Implications

Risk Analysis

· What can happen?

Council and Essential Energy continue to use halogen street lighting technology.

· How can it happen?

Lights are not updated to LED.

· What are the consequences of the event happening?

Council will continue to pay higher operating costs.

Halogen lighting technology will become more expensive and difficult to acquire as it progresses towards obsolescence.

Council may fall behind with Smart cities technologies as these replacements will include ports to install smart devices.

· What is the likelihood of the event happening?

Unlikely, as Essential Energy will progress with the upgrade.

· Adequacy of existing controls?

This report offers adequate controls for the foreseeable future.

· Treatment options to mitigate the risk?

Support the LED Program rollout.

Conclusion

Essential Energy will roll out the LED light upgrade in the 2021-22 financial year. Council can choose to pay upfront, collect the savings immediately or wait for 10 years to receive the savings, and may retain the existing decorative light styles.

Attachments

Nil

MURRAY RIVER COUNCIL Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

27 April 2021

9.5 Director Community and Economic Development Report and Supplementary Matters

9.5.1 Code of Conduct Policy - Vulnerable Persons and Children

File Number: -

Author: John Harvie, Director Community and Economic Development

Authoriser: Terry Dodds, Chief Executive Officer

Recommendation

That Council

1. Adopt the Code of Conduct – Vulnerable People and Children Policy and place on public exhibition for a period of 28 days to enable public comment.

2. Request that the Chief Executive Officer write to Riverina and Murray Joint Organisation seeking its support to:

a) Appoint a consultant to undertake Childsafe Audits of member councils (external)

b) Appoint a Childsafe Officer on a fixed term contract to engage with individual member councils to rectify deficiencies identified in their Childsafe Audit, including:

· Identify the risks/gaps observed as non-compliant to the Childsafe Standards.

· Make immediate adjustments to high risk of high liability operational activities.

· Formulate an implement a Childsafe Action Plan (continuous improvement plan) mapped to the Standards.

· Oversee the implementation of the Childsafe Action Plan.

· Monitor the Childsafe Action Plan implementation.

· Induct Staff/Vol/Subcontractor/MRC Associates.

· Develop the administrative documents for the Reportable Conduct Scheme obligations of RAMJO councils.

· Conduct an evaluation, review and reporting of the implementation of the Childsafe Action Plan across RAMJO councils

Background

The NSW Children’s Guardian Act 2019 was enacted and came into effect in NSW on 1 March 2020 and resulted from the Federal Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse conducted between 2013 – 2017.

The Royal commissions finding lead to the creation of National Childsafe Principles and Standards which underpin the NSW Children’s Guardian Act 2019. The Standards provide a framework for enabling organisations to deliver childsafe services to children and have been accepted by the NSW Government.

Discussion

Implementation of the act in NSW is the responsibility of The Office of the Children’s Guardian who will monitor and hold accountable individuals and organisations, including council’s, in relation to ensuring children’s safety through implementation and adherence to the ten standards.

There are 10 Child Safe Standards

1. Leadership within the organisation is committed to children’s safety. Young people are asked and listened to

2. Children are encouraged to feel included and participate in decision-making

3. Families and communities are valued as active participants in keeping young people safe

4. Equal opportunities enable children to participate to their full potential

5. Recruitment of appropriate staff and volunteers to keep young people safe is a high priority and is taken seriously

6. Complaints are taken seriously and children are the priority when responding to complaints of abuse.

7. Organisations have a culture of educating and training to build staff skills, abilities and confidence

8. Physical and online environments are screened and adapted to identify and minimise risks to young people

9. Continuous review and improvement is a core component of the implementation of the Child Safe Standards within the organisation

10. Policies and procedures are developed and shared within the organisation in a way that is clearly understood by all workers

To identify gaps and develop sound policy council officers have engaged with The NSW Office of the Children’s Guardian and The Local Government Childsafe Network

The NSW Office of the Children’s Guardian

- Provides initial and ongoing training and induction to the NSW Reportable Conduct Scheme

- Clarifies individual organisations responsibilities.

- Provides Resources including templates of Policies/Procedures

The LG Childsafe Network

- Provides active email networking of NSW metro/regional Councils to navigate through their individual Childsafe Review activities, providing peer support

- Offers network sharing of Policies, Procedures and challenges/scenarios

In addition, Murray River Council will prepare a report to RAMJO seeking to:

1. Appoint a consultant to undertake Childsafe Audits of member councils (external)

2. Appoint a Childsafe Officer on a fixed term contract to engage with individual member councils to rectify deficiencies identified in their Childsafe Audit, including:

· Identify the risks/gaps observed as non-compliant to the Childsafe Standards

· Make immediate adjustments to high risk of high liability operational activities

· Formulate an implement a Childsafe Action Plan (continuous improvement plan) mapped to the Standards

· Oversee the implementation of the Childsafe Action Plan

· Monitor the Childsafe Action Plan implementation

· Induct Staff/Vol/Subcontractor/MRC Associates

· Develop the administrative documents for the Reportable Conduct Scheme obligations of RAMJO councils

· Evaluation, Review and Reporting of the implementation of the Childsafe Action Plan across RAMJO councils

This legislation is applicable to everyone. In our case, it applies to all employees who come in contact with children either directly or indirectly in the course of their employment with MRC.

Strategic Implications

3 - Strategic Theme 3: Social Wellbeing

3.1 - Enable community access to services, programs and facilities to support and enhance health, wellbeing, and community safety

3.1.8 - Work across all services for the prevention of domestic violence

Budgetary Implications

Council should budget an amount of $50,000 in the 2021/22 budget to cover the costs associated with compliance with the legislation.

Policy Implications

Nil.

Legislative Implications

Risk Analysis

· What can happen?

· Council does not adopt the Code of Conduct – Vulnerable People and Children and does not comply with the requirements of the NSW Children’s Guardian Act 2019.

· How can it happen?

· Poor governance and lack of leadership by the executive and others.

· What are the consequences of the event happening?

· Council may be at significant risk of being sued if it was found guilty of negligently or wilfully being non-compliant with the NSW Children’s Guardian Act 2019.

· What is the likelihood of the event happening?

· Unlikely

· Adequacy of existing controls?

· Not adequate to comply.

· Treatment options to mitigate the risk?

· Do all things necessary to be compliant with the NSW Children’s Guardian Act 2019.

Conclusion

MRC should adopt the recommendations of this report.

Attachments

1. Code of Conduct Policy - Vulnerable People and Children ⇩

MURRAY RIVER COUNCIL Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda

27 April 2021

9.7 Sundry Delegates Report

9.7.1 Sundry Delegates Report

File Number: -

Author: Lindy Leyonhjelm, Executive Assistant

Authoriser: Terry Dodds, Chief Executive Officer

Recommendation

That the Sundry Delegates Report of the Mayor and Councillors for the period 23 March 2021 to 26 April 2021 be received and the information noted by the Council; and reasonable out of pocket expenses be met by Council.

Discussion

The Mayor, Councillor Chris Bilkey reported on his attendance at the following meetings and functions:

· Mar 23: Council Pre-Briefing & Ordinary Council Meeting - Moama

· Mar 23: Business Case presentation – volunteering resource center

· Mar 24: MRE Audit interview & Interview with 2QN

· Mar 25: Clubsgrant committee meeting

· Mar 25: Murray Socio Economic Activation Taskforce meeting via Zoom

· Mar 26: Travel to Albury and meet with The Hon Sussan Ley MP

· Mar 31: Interview with 2QN & Fortnightly Councillor Update via Teams

· Mar 31: RAMJO Murray and Murrumbidgee Regional Water Strategies via Zoom

· Apr 7: Interview with 2QN

· Apr 9: Interview with EMFM & meet at Winbi Resort

· Apr 14: Fortnightly Councillor Update via Teams

· Apr 16: Teams meeting with Hon Paul Toole MP RE: Swan Hill Bridge

· Apr 20: Griffith visit – meetings with Ministers regarding water

· Apr 21: Griffith visit– meetings with Ministers regarding water

· Apr 22: Community Grants Assessment Panel – Shortlist meeting

· Apr 23: Moama Public School Anzac Day service

· Apr 25: Moama Wreath Laying Ceremony

The Deputy Mayor, Councillor Nikki Cohen reported on hierattendance at the following meetings and functions:

· Mar 23: Councillor visit to Four Post Recreation & Campground Deniliquin

· Mar 23: Council Pre-Briefing & Ordinary Council Meeting - Moama

· Mar 31: Fortnightly Councillor Update via Teams

· Apr 9: Audit and Risk Committee Work Plan Discussion - Moama

· Apr 12: Audit and Risk Committee Meeting - Moama

· Mar 14: Fortnightly Councillor Update via Teams

· Apr 19: Lawry Park Community Consultation – Rich River Golf Club

· Apr 25: Anzac Day Ceremonies Echuca/Moama

Councillor Tony Aquino reported on his attendance at the following meetings and functions:

· Mar 23: Councillor visit to Four Post Recreation & Campground Deniliquin

· Mar 23: Council Pre-Briefing & Ordinary Council Meeting - Moama

· Mar 23: Planning stakeholders meeting

· Mar 29: Meeting with P Hill & T Dodds

· Mar 31: Fortnightly Councillor update – CEO office

· Apr 14: Fortnightly Councillor update – via Teams

Cr Tony Aquino reported on his attendance at the following meetings and functions for dates prior to 23 March:

· Mar 18: Integrated Service Management Workshop - Moama

· Mar 21: Barham Site inspection re: deputation

· Mar 22: Site inspection re: truck traffic

Councillor Gen Campbell reported on her attendance at the following meetings and functions:

· Mar 23: Councillor visit to Four Post Recreation & Campground Deniliquin

· Mar 23: Council Pre-Briefing & Ordinary Council Meeting - Moama

Cr Gen Campbell reported on her attendance at the following meetings and functions for dates prior to 23 March:

· Mar 15: Lions meeting

· Mar 16: Liquor Accord

· Mar 22: National Timber Councils AGM meeting

Councillor Alan Mathers reported on her attendance at the following meetings and functions:

· Mar 23: Council Pre-Briefing & Ordinary Council Meeting - Moama

· Mar 31: Fortnightly Councillor update – CEO office

· Apr 25: MRC Anzac Day ceremony’s at Barham and Wakool.

Cr Alan Mathers reported on her attendance at the following meetings and functions for dates prior to 23 March:

· Mar 1: Wakool Hall Committee

· Mar 22: MRC Workshop interview with Centium RE: Murray River Energy

Councillor Ann Crowe reported on her attendance at the following meetings and functions:

· Apr 2: Murray Downs Riverside Park Committee of Management General meeting -Federal Hotel

· Apr 9: Meeting with Toby Gilmour & John Harvie – via phone

· Apr 14: Fortnightly Councillor Update via Teams

· Apr 25: Anzac Day Ceremonies Piangil

Councillor Neil Gorey reported on his attendance at the following meetings and functions:

Cr Neil Gorey reported on his attendance at the following meetings and functions for dates prior to 23 March:

· Mar 8: Barham Recreation reserve meeting

· Mar 10: Councillor update – via Teams

· Mar 15: NCTA meeting

· Mar 17: Councillor update – via Teams

Councillor Thomas Weyrich reported on his attendance at the following meetings and functions:

No report provided.

Councillor Geoff Wise reported on his attendance at the following meetings and functions:

· Mar 23: Pre-briefing meeting, Ordinary Council Meeting

· Mar 23: Planning stakeholders meeting

Attachments

Nil


AGENDA Ordinary Council Meeting Tuesday, 27 April 2021
I hereby give notice that an Ordinary Meeting of Murray River Council will be held on:
Date:	Tuesday, 27 April 2021
Time:	2:00pm
Location:	Council Chambers Moama Administration Office 52 Perricoota Road, Moama
Terry Dodds Chief Executive Officer