RURAL CITY OF MURRAY BRIDGE

ANNUAL REPORT

2002 – 2003

CONTENTS Mayoral Comments 1 Elected Members 2 Council Meetings 3 Chief Executive Officer’s Report 4 Department Reports 5 Statutory Reporting & Statistics 31 Rating Policy Audited Financial Statements Attachments MMLGA Annual Report SHLGA Annual Report

CONTACTS

Local Government Centre 2 Seventh Street Murray Bridge 5253 Postal: PO Box 421 Telephone 8539 1100 Facsimile 8532 2766 Email council@rcmb.sa.gov.au Website www.rcmb.sa.gov.au

Depot 21 Hindmarsh Road, Murray Bridge 5253 Telephone 8539 1160 Facsimile 8531 0170

Public Library Level 3 Mobilong House Seventh Street, Murray Bridge 5253 Telephone 8539 1175

Visitor Information Centre South Terrace, Murray Bridge Telephone 8539 1142

Lerwin Nursing Home 67 Joyce Street, Murray Bridge Telephone 8539 1185 Facsimile 8531 1655

Message of Appreciation

To all volunteers who have provided services or support to the

• Tourist Information Centre • Lerwin Nursing Home • Murray Bridge Public Library • Graffiti Removal Unit • Home & Community Care Drivers • Community Committees • Work for the Dole Participants

and for those who assist with events, a special thank you.

Your support and assistance to the Council and community is very much appreciated.

COVER

CONTENTS

MAYORAL COMMENTS

This year is the 10t h anniversary since the Rural City of Murray Bridge received city status and a comprehensive list of our achievements continues to grow. For the outside staff, this year has been extremely busy because as soon as we finished Pallamana Road the staff were given the contract to build the other half of the Monarto Interchange. They did a magnificent job given the time lines involved and they constructed it under budget and within the allocated time. “Well done.” With all this happening we also changed from our old Depot to our new one giving us a lot better se-curity and working conditions.

Many people have praised the upgrade and beau-tification of Adelaide Road, which enhances the entrance to Murray Bridge. During the year we had the opening of the Tele-communication Centre at Edward’s Crossing,

where they did a great job in housing this facil-ity. We have also received funding for a new 20 bed extension for Lerwin Nursing Home which will bring great efficiencies to this establishment as well as fill a great need for the elderly commu-nity. We have been working hard to set up a youth advisory committee where the young ones will be able to have a voice in our community.

Funding has been received from Country Arts SA to enable us to go to the next stage of the Regional Arts Centre. The drought and the River Murray water prob-lems have been difficult for our farmers to han-dle and I hope everyone is very understanding of their situation. We had three new councillors in May and they are working with the other councillors for the benefit of our total community. I appreciate the time and effort given by the three outgoing councillors to our community. Both the inside and outside staff have worked diligently, as usual, to help councillors obtain the best outcomes for ratepayers. The Rural City of Murray Bridge has achieved very good results for the community over the pas t few years. I would like to thank all employees as well as councillors for their support now and in the fu-ture.

ELECTED MEMBERS Pre May 2003

ELECTED MEMBERS Post May 2003

Mayor Mayor Allan Arbon Allan Arbon

Brinkley Ward Brinkley Ward Bob England Bob England Bruce Pearson Bruce Pearson Trevor Whittaker Barry Laubsch Mobilong Ward Mobilong Ward

Kath Leyland Ken Coventry Clem Schubert Clem Schubert Theo Weinmann Theo Weinmann

Monarto Ward Monarto Ward Keith Simmons Phil Nutt Milton Weinert Milton Weinert Lui Fabbian Resigned July 2002 Fred Sanders ** Mike Williams Elected Nov 2002 Keith Simmons * * Keith Simmons contested the outcome of the Monarto Ward election, and as a result Keith Sim-

mons was duly elected in August 2003. ** Fred Sanders served a term from May 2003 until August 2003.

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Elected Members May 2003

Allan Arbon Mayor

Retiring Members during 2002/03

Fred Sanders Monarto Ward

Phil Nutt Monarto Ward

Milton Weinert Monarto Ward

Theo Weinmann Mobilong Ward

Ken Coventry Mobilong Ward

Clem Schubert Mobilong Ward

Bob England Brinkley Ward

Barry Laubsch Brinkley Ward

Bruce Pearson Brinkley Ward

Keith Simmons Monarto Ward

Kath Leyland Mobilong Ward

Mike Williams ** Monarto Ward

Lui Fabbian * Monarto Ward

Trevor Whittaker Brinkley Ward

* Resigned 31 July 2003 ** Elected 18 Nov 2002 to May 2003

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COUNCIL MEETINGS

Council meetings are held on the fourth Mon-day of each month commencing at 7.00 p.m. at the Council Chambers, Local Government Cen-tre, 2 Seventh Street, Murray Bridge. Works and Finance Committee meetings are held on the second Monday of each month. Members of the public are welcome to attend as observers in the gallery and are not permitted to take part in proceedings. How-ever, individuals or representatives may be in-vited to address Council. Agendas of all Council meetings are placed on public display not less than three days prior to the meeting. Minutes are placed on display within five days of that meeting.

ELECTED MEMBERS

Twelve Council meetings were held during the year. Eleven Works & Finance Committee meetings were held, and three Special Meetings were called. The following table details members’ attendance at these meetings.

MEMBER’S ALLOWANCES The following annual allowances were paid to members for the all or part of the year depending upon term served. Up to May 2003

Mayor $18,000 Deputy Mayor $5,625 Councillors $4,500

Following May 2003 Election

Mayor $21,600 Deputy Mayor $6,750 Councillors $5,400

Meetings Attended Meetings Attended pre May 2003 elections Meetings Attended post May 2003 elections

Mayor Council W&F Special Mayor Council W&F Special Allan Arbon 9 8 2 Allan Arbon 2 1 - Brinkley Ward Brinkley Ward Bob England 10 7 2 Bob England 2 1 1 Bruce Pearson 6 7 1 Bruce Pearson 2 - - Trevor Whittaker 4 2 - Barry Laubsch 2 1 1 Mobilong Ward Mobilong Ward Kath Leyland 10 8 2 Ken Coventry 2 1 1 Clem Schubert 10 7 - Clem Schubert 2 1 1 Theo Weinmann 10 8 2 Theo Weinmann 2 1 1 Monarto Ward Monarto Ward Keith Simmons 10 7 2 Phil Nutt 2 1 1 Milton Weinert 8 5 1 Milton Weinert 2 1 1 Lui Fabbian 1 - - Fred Sanders 2 1 1 Mike Williams 4 - -

CITIZENSHIP CEREMONIES

The following people received Australian Citizenship during

2002/2003

John Charles Webb

Shirley Elizabeth Webb

Julie Ann Scott

Laurice Meriel Braithwaite

Julieta Savill

Cecilia Ann Clinton Mills

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CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

The Murray Bridge region continues to prosper. During the last twelve months the continuing growth and development has resulted in an overall improvement in living conditions and employment opportunities for residents. One of the major indicators of growth is the further significant increase in property values over the last twelve months. The average valuation increase was in excess of 8%. In many parts of the district, particularly where property is close to or has views of the River, property values have increased at a greater rate, often dramatically. Such demand is not without consequences – there is a now a shortage of residential property on the market. This is pre-senting problems as employment opportunities in the region are generating a demand for homes.

This dynamic environment has created challenges for the community and, consequently, for the Council. The Council has to keep in mind the longer-term view so that infrastructure and service planning is under-taken to avoid many of the problems that other communities incur by focussing too much on the immediate issues and challenges. This is a serious risk in a growing community. The new Council elected in May 2003 has indicated that it will review the current Forward (Strategic) Plan and the road infrastructure plan with the intention of classifying roads and setting works priorities. There is still much work to be done in relation to better managing other Council facilities and services. For example, the recently announced water restrictions mean that Council has reviewed the levels of maintenance on grassed areas. Further reviews will be needed as these restrictions will mean further reducing the amount of watering that can be undertaken. There will have to be more intensive use of a lesser number of facilities such as parks, gardens and grassed playing surfaces. The community will need to be involved in and informed on this process because of the social and recreational implications. There are many new challenges ahead for the community and the Council. That goes with a growing area. Never-the-less, the current trends point to an exciting time as we strive to improve the quality of life of local people. Rob Foster Chief Executive Officer

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Strategic Planning

Governance

BUSINESS SERVICES

CORPORATE SERVICES

HUMAN SERVICES

REGULATORY SERVICES

Operations Community Services

• Library • Lerwin Nursing Home • Home & Community

Care programs

Financial services Information Management Records Management Asset Management Contracts and Risk Management

Human Resources OH&S Customer Service Community Development Economic Development

• Tourist Information Centre

• Major Events

Land Use Planning Environmental Services Building Services Compliance Services

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GOVERNANCE Periodical Review The Rural City of Murray Bridge conducted a Periodical Review during October 1999. The next review is to be commenced in January 2005. Voter representation as at 28th February 2003 was as follows:

Tolerance is to be within +/- 10% of quota.

• Register of Community Land • Members Code of Conduct • Code of Practise for Access to Meetings

and documents • Employees Code of Conduct • Campaign Donation Returns prepared by

Candidates Confidentiality During the period July 2002 to June 2003, Council dealt with 17 reports under the confidentiality provisions of the Local Government Act 1999. Of these 17 reports, 7 have been released, 2 are to be retained due to the nature of the re-port and 7 relate to matters which have not yet been finalised and will be reviewed in accor-dance with the Local Government Act in Octo-ber 2003. Council Committees The following is a list of the Committees of Council: Works & Finance Development Assessment Pane l Donations/Community Grant Funding Review of Arrangements for use of Ovals Working Party Lerwin Expansion Committee Library Facilities Committee Advisory Committees Crime Prevention Advisory Committee Road Safety Advisory Committee Community Cultural Development Advisory Committee Accessibility Advisory Committee Town Bus Board Management Committees Captain’s Cottage Museum Murray Bridge Showgrounds Swanport Aquatic Centre Johnstone Park Combined Clubs Monarto War Memorial Hall Mypolonga Community Hall Roundhouse Management Committee

Outside Bodies Council is represented on the following outside bodies. Local Government Association of South Australia Local Government Finance Authority Murray & Mallee Local Government Association Southern & Hills Local Government Association Murray Darling Association Murraylands Regional Development Board Murraylands Regional Tourist Association Provincial Cities Association Murray Bridge Animal & Pest Plant Control Board

Actual Electors

Quota Variance to Quota *

Mobilong Ward

4512 4446 -1.46

Brinkley Ward

4494 4446 -1.07

Monarto Ward

4331 4445 2.63

Council Documents The following documents are available for public inspection at the Council offices free of charge:

• Agendas and Minutes of Council meet-ings

• Allowances and Benefits • Annual Financial Statements • Annual Report • Assessment Book • Building Application Register • By Laws • Policy Manual • Register of Elected Members Interests,

Allowances & Benefits • Register of Employees’ salaries • Register of Employees’ interests • Register of Fees and Charges • Register of Public Roads

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Murray Bridge Soldier’s Memorial Hospital Board Murray Mallee Aged Care SA Council on the Ageing Murray Bridge Business & Tourism Inc Murray Bridge State Emergency Service Murray Bridge District Bushfire Prevention Committee Lower Murray Irrigation Action Group Mannum to Wellington Local Action Planning Committee Murray Bridge Basketball Association Murray Watch Adelaide Hills Region Waste Management Authority Lower Murray Local Government Working Group Public Participation

Council invites the public to participate and put forward their views on particular issues be-fore Council. This can be done through the fo l-lowing means: (a) Deputations to Council With the Mayor’s permission members of the public may address the Council personally or on behalf of a group of residents (b) Petitions Written petitions can be addressed to the Council on any issue. (c) Written Requests

A member of the public can write to the Council on any issue.

(d) Elected Members Members of the public can contact the Elected Members of Council to discuss any relevant issue. Community Consultation

The Rural City of Murray Bridge consults with its community in line with its Public Consulta-tion Policy. This policy is available for viewing free of charge at the front counter of the Local Government Centre, copies may be purchased for a prescribed fee. Freedom of Information Act Requests

During 2002/03, Council received no applica-tions under the Freedom of Information Act.

CORPORATE SERVICES This is my first full year as Manager, Corporate Services and I must say it has been a challeng-ing and rewarding year. The new department, created in March 2002 as a result of organisa-tional review, has gone from strength to strength with a focus on continuous improve-ment. The staff continue to assess and im-prove their work practices and have readily ac-cepted the challenges of additional or new roles during absences of leave of other staff. It is also a year where we saw some familiar faces leave and new staff join. To everyone in the de-partment, past and present, I say ‘Thankyou’. It hasn’t been easy at times, but the positive re-sults are definitely showing. Corporate Services includes the broader func-tions of financial management, administration, asset management, community land, informa-tion/records management, information techno l-ogy, geographical information systems, con-tracts, leases and licenses as well as risk man-agement. As outlined in the 2001/2002 Annual Report we have undertaken a Business Plan which ef-fectively links our continuous improvement ac-tivities, to Council’s Strategic, Master and Risk Management Plans. In some areas this also can relate to what the State Government and the Local Government Association are seeking to implement Statewide. Our Business Plan details the outcomes we are seeking to achieve and accompanying this is an action plan linking to staff’s daily and strategic activities. Financial management (internally) and financial performance of the Council have been a major project since taking on this department. Through the collective efforts of the elected members and staff the financial performance of the organisation has improved and now shows that the Council is trading positively. The finan-cial performance of the organisation is repre-sented in the graphs that are included in this Annual Report. This year we have focused on developing and improving ‘internal control’ by changing work practices. This has resulted in a significant re-duction in exposure to risk for financial matters but we still have some way to go. This fine-tuning is currently occurring with the support and commitment from all the Managers and 2003/2004 should result in most of the known gaps being addressed. In order to improve our public accountability, the finance staff respon-sible for payroll, rating, accounts receivable/payable, eServices and general finance are con-tinuously developing new procedures, improv-ing practices and making changes so as to im-

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prove the quality of information provided to them and also to improve how and when things are done. IT and Information Management - there have been many highlights as well as the usual hic-cups when working in this environment. The challenges faced in working through a disaster recovery strategy and implementing more rigid back-up systems have been tested out. It is good to see that in times of need our systems do work. Loss of corporate information through a lack of back-up and disaster recovery systems is always a primary concern and one which has been prominent in our vision during the past year. Most staff are now so reliant on the I.T. systems in place that they can’t adequately function without them. The records management review planned for 2002/2003 was undertaken, but it didn’t result in major changes. In 2003/2004 more work will be done on our current system internally as an alternative position. Our GIS system continues to be a major work-ing tool for the organisation. In setting the budget for 2003/2004 GIS and thematic map-ping was used quite extensively by the Council to visually consider the impact of different rate setting initiatives. The capacity of GIS to change the way people work or the ease with which they work is now more widely under-stood. Along with GIS, Council is grateful to the Murray Mallee LAP for the provision of detailed aerial photography along the Riverine strip. Asset Management has grown from strength to strength. This is a growing area of Council, and is one that seeks to understand the strate-gic direction of Council and filter this through into their work, whether it be by working out the terms and conditions of a license or lease for use of Council property or when reviewing the long-term use of council’s land and build-ings. Successful completion of some long-outstanding capital projects are also highlights with the most prominent being

· Cycle Speedway Club joint partnership to build toilets at Homburg Park

· Roundhouse Toilets – in keeping with the Heritage requireme nts

· Upgrading of jetties at Sturt Reserve and Woodlane

· Clearance of vegetation within the Rail-way Lands

· Beautification of Roundhouse gardens

Some of these projects have only been able to be achieved through the sponsorship by Coun-cil for the Work for the Dole program. The Contracts Officer co -ordinates community pro-jects for completion by this worthwhile pro-gram.

The appointment of a Council representative on the Local Government Association’s Asset Man-agement Advisory Committee is also a key highlight. It demonstrates Murray Bridge’s com-mitment to working towards a better future for our community through effective Asset Man-agement strategies. This committee looks at ways for councils to match their current and future resources - to the service provisions ex-pected. It sounds simple but is very complex as expectations within communities have changed and will continue to change over time. There has been an overall improvement in risk management activities within Council and this is evidenced through the Council receiving a large rebate on premiums paid to the Mutual Liability Scheme (Council’s insurers). This re-bate is a reflection of our prevention activities, management of risk as well as responses to particular incidents. The LGA’s Risk Manage-ment Coordinator continues to provide excel-lent service to our organisation. The Narooma Residential Project has seen an increased intensity towards the end of the fi-nancial year and this project will continue to dominate much of my time during 2003. The community should start to see some actual site works during 2004. As a large urban develop-ment project, it continues to offer challenges on both resources and time but is clearly a stra-tegic initiative of the Council that will, once completed, provide a much needed high quality residential development very close to the CBD. It can only be achieved through the collabora-tive efforts of the partners, Council and the Re-gional Development Board. Planning for the proposed marina and wetlands will occur dur-ing 2004. Financial management, rate modeling and rat-ing options, asset management, recreation and sporting review, land asset review, road reserve permits and sale along with continued develop-ment of our corporate IT systems are just some of the planned activities for next year. Rhona Parker-Benton Manager—Corporate Services

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RCMB Long Term Financial TrendsSummary Trends – Operating & Cash

-2000000

-1000000

0

1000000

2000000

3000000

1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003

OperatingResult

Net CashPosition

Cashprovided peryear

Poly.(OperatingResult)

Poly. (NetCashPosition)

Poly. (Cashprovided peryear)

Operating Statement – Ratio’s

0

50

100

150

200

250

300

350

1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003

Expend as% of RateInc

Expend as a% of GrantInc

Expend/Income

Poly.(Expend as% of RateInc)Poly.(Expend/Income)

Poly.(Expend asa % ofGrant Inc)

8

RCMB Long Term Financial TrendsOperating Statement - Expenditures

0

1000000

2000000

3000000

4000000

5000000

1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003

EmployeeCosts

ContractorCosts

Depn

Materials

OtherExpenses

Poly.(ContractorCosts)

Poly.(EmployeeCosts)

Operating Statement - Income

0

2000000

4000000

6000000

8000000

10000000

12000000

1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003

TotalExpend lessDepnRateIncome

GrantIncome

OtherIncome

Poly. (OtherIncome)

Poly. (GrantIncome)

Poly. (RateIncome)

Poly. (TotalExpend lessDepn)

9

RCMB Long Term Financial TrendsBalance Sheet – Equity & Reserves

0

10000000

20000000

30000000

40000000

50000000

60000000

70000000

1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003

Accum Surplus

Reserves

Total Equity

Equity ExcRevaluation

Poly. (EquityExcRevaluation)

Cash Flow - Detail

-4000000

-3000000

-2000000

-1000000

0

1000000

2000000

3000000

4000000

1997 1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003

Cash fromOperations

Cash fromFinancing

Cash fromAssets

Total cashfor year

Poly. (CashfromOperations)Poly. (CashfromFinancing)Poly. (CashfromAssets)Poly. (Totalcash foryear)

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REGULATORY SERVICES Purpose The Regulatory Services Division administers policies and legislative requirements on behalf of Council and has a significant influence upon the quality of life our community enjoys, and upon the environment in which we live. The de-partment can be split into four broad areas of activity:

· Land use planning; · Building control; · Public and environmental health; and · Local laws

Activity in these areas extends from day to day operation and implementation by staff, through to policy advice and strategic direction setting in liaison with the elected Council. In all there are over 15 separate pieces of fo r-mal legislation which regulatory staff adminis-ter and/or must have regard for. This is in addi-tion to the various policies and regulations which sit under these acts. There are also a number of major projects which broadly come under the heading of Regulatory Services, these include:

· Rubbish collection · Landfill management · Waste water management

Land Use Planning Development Assessment The Development Assessment unit has proc-essed over 730 applications for development in the past year which includes a high percentage of common proposals for such things as car-ports and household extensions, through to

multi-million dollar industrial developments re-quiring in depth technical, environmental and economic assessment. The variety and number of applications received reflects the growing interest in Murray Bridge and nearby townships as a desirable place to live, work and play. A slight increase has been seen in the number of applications received in the past year which was preceded by a 30% increase in applications for the 2001/2002 financial year. The conflicts that can sometimes occur as a re-sult of increased and intensified land use pre-sent an exciting and challenging prospect for Council to manage, but also signify a time of prosperity and growth for the area.

APPLICATIONS FOR NEW DWELLINGS 1 JULY 2002 – 30 JUNE 2003

Suburb No of

Dwellings Murray Bridge 137 Rockleigh 9 Sunnyside 8 White Sands 7 Murray Bridge East 6 Murray Bridge South 5 Long Flat 5 Monarto 4 Callington 3 Burdett 3 Woodlane 3 Riverglades 2 Mypolonga 2 Wellington 2 White Hill 2 Monteith, Swanport, Gifford Hill, Toora, Monarto South, Jervois, Greenbanks, Riverglen

1 each

Total 206

RCMB DEVELOPMENT APPLICATIONS 1 JULY 2002 – 30 JUNE 2003

Nature of Development Applications Received % of total

Class 10 Buildings (Ancillary Sheds, Fences, Pools, etc) 325 44.0%

New Dwellings (Single Dwellings, Multi–Dwelling Arrangements, Retirement Village Units)

186 25.3%

Land Divisions 80 11.0%

Residential Extensions/Alterations, Habitable Outbuildings 41 5.6%

Commercial Uses (Shops, Offices, Consulting Rooms etc) 29 3.9%

Industrial Uses (Workshops, Motor Repair Stations etc) 18 2.4%

Other (Animal Keeping, Community Purposes, Horticulture, Signage, Temporary Accommodation, etc)

57 7.8%

736 100%

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Twelve Community Title Land Division Applica-tions were received out of the 80 total land di-vision applications received. Nine applications were refused by Council Offi-cers under delegated authority, one application was refused by the Development Assessment Commission as the relevant authority and two were refused by Council’s Development Assess-ment Panel. Development/Land Use Policy It is important that a growing community such as The Rural City of Murray Bridge has up to date, relevant planning policies in its Develop-ment Plan in order to encourage the best forms of development for the benefit of the commu-nity. Many parts of the current Plan do not al-low Council to effectively control various forms of development in a manner befitting the goals of the community. Issues of environmental sus-tainability, economic development and invest-ment, social and cultural development and in-frastructure planning are the guiding principles which Council must seek to balance in setting land use policies and planning zones. Unfortu-nately, the process of undertaking a Plan Amendment Report to amend the Development Plan (local land use rule book) is very expensive and time consuming. A continuous program of planning policy review has been initiated to en-sure that the Rural City of Murray Bridge Devel-opment Plan can deliver responsive regulation of development pressures whilst seeking to meet the changing needs of the community in a timely manner. Typically a PAR will take 1-3 years to complete at a cost of $15,000 to $60,000. A total of six PARs are presently un-derway and are at various stages of completion. Plan Amendment Reports Significant progress has been made on Coun-cil’s Rural PAR which aims to address many is-sues affecting the Rural Zone of our Council (which presently covers 75% of the entire Coun-cil district), including future location and infra-structure support for intensive animal keeping, land division, tourism development and resi-dential development. Many of these issues are very complex and researching them has proven to be time consuming. This PAR also involves extensive consultation with many government and non-government agencies. Public consulta-tion for this PAR is scheduled to occur in No-vember – December 2003. Council has also completed a Town Centre Strategy which investigated a number of issues pertaining to current and future retail activity in Murray Bridge, traffic movements, pedestrian linkages, heritage protection, and central busi-ness district growth.

The Key Directions paper resulting from The Town Centre Strategy was the basis for drafting The Town Centre PAR. This PAR proposes to establish a new retail precinct in the currently under utilized parklands located between South Terrace and Mary Terrace to consolidate and strengthen existing retail areas and boundaries of the central business district. Consultation regarding future town centre growth and related issues is to commence in September 2003. A Town Centre and Environs Heritage PAR has also been commenced which aims to provide policy protection for buildings, trees and other items in and around the Murray Bridge CBD considered to be of local heritage significance. This policy will enable Council to retain more control over the built and natural heritage of our community. Consultation for the PAR will occur concurrently with The Town Centre PAR in late 2003. A Minor Townships PAR has recently been initi-ated and will investigate whether the township boundaries of Mypolonga, Woods Point, Mon-teith, Jervois and Wellington need to expand to allow for activities such as rural living, residen-tial, rural and commercial development, and if so, where. It is anticipated that this PAR will un-dergo public consultation during mid to late 2004. A Residential (Narooma) PAR is also underway to investigate suitable residential zoning and design guidelines for a significant urban infill project to occur in Murray Bridge. This is to be a prelude to further residential policy work to influence residential built form in the remain-der of the council area at a later date. Public consultation to occur in late 2003. Development Compliance The development assessment process that Council undertakes is only part of its responsi-bility in managing development in our commu-nity. The issue of compliance with develop-ment approval conditions is one of ever in-creasing importance as our community contin-ues to grow and change. Council has employed additional planning re-sources to provide for more proactive monito r-ing of compliance with development approval conditions. Council has recognised that with intensification of many industries, together with increased demand for residential develop-ment, retail activity and tourism businesses, that the need to manage and protect various land use activities from the impact of neighbouring land uses is critical in managing the growth of community.

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Numerous compliance related issues were in-vestigated and enforcement letters were sent in relation to the following development related matters: unsightly buildings, a lack of land-scaping in accordance with approval condi-tions, illegal tourist related land uses, unap-proved sheds and fencing & illegal animal keep-ing. In many other instances, alleged and iden-tified breaches were able to be rectified via dis-cussion and negotiation with relevant parties without resorting to formal written correspon-dence. Informal public consultation occurred in rela-tion to proposed variations to Land Manage-ment Agreement provisions at Woodlane, Queen Louisa Drive, Riverglen Marina and White Sands. Development Assessment Panel The Development Assessment Panel is a group of staff and external advisors who have been delegated some of the powers of Council as a planning authority. Their purpose is to consider and determine planning applications under the provisions of the Development Act and the Ru-ral City of Murray Bridge Development Plan. Their role is purely one of assessment and does not include policy changes (PAR’s), compliance or any assessment matters which may be dealt with under other delegations which are passed onto planning assessment staff. Nine meetings of the DAP were conducted with 16 separate applications considered. 11 appli-cations were approved with two being refused. Other items were considered and deferred and will be determined subsequently pending fur-ther information. The Development Assessment Panel enjoys support from a variety of external members giving of their time. Mr. Des Warner, local com-munity leader and financial advisor, and Mr. James Miller from the Mid Murray Council were formally acknowledged for service to the com-munity for their unpaid participation on the De-velopment Assessment Panel. Both members were presented an engraved plaque from Mayor Arbon to recognise two years service. Environment, Resources and Development Court – appeals and conferences Four development application determinations were appealed against and proceeded to ERD Court Conference. All appeals were resolved at the conference stage (via negotiation), thus avoiding protracted and expensive full court hearings. Two applications involved applicants appealing against refusal determinations. The other two applications involved third parties (objectors) appealing against approvals or ap-proval conditions.

Building Services Councils’ Building Inspection Officer carries out audit inspections of building work throughout the Council area in accordance with the Build-ing Inspection Policy. Development Applications are assessed by the Building Inspector before final development ap-proval can be issued. The relevant provisions of the Building Code of Australia are applied to all applications which Council is required to as-sess. Councils’ Building Fire Safety Committee in-cludes representatives from MFS/CFS and is re-sponsible for the checking of fire safety provi-sions in new and existing buildings. Special re-gard is given to those types of buildings and occupancies which may constitute a high fire safety risk and if required, follow up compli-ance notices are issued to minimise risk to life and property. Immunisation Clinics During 2002/2003 immunisations clinics for school students have taken place at the Local Government Centre, Murray Bridge High School, Unity College and other locations. Free vaccinations against Hepatitis B and Mea-sles, Mumps and Rubella are offered as part of the annual program to Year 8 students. A booster of Adult Diphtheria and Tetanus and Polio is offered to secondary school students. Meningococcal vaccinations have also been in-troduced during in the past year. Council has also taken the step of internalising immunisation services to enable us to exercise greater control in the provision of this impor-tant community service. Food Safety The new food Act became operational 1 De-cember 2002 with the general objects of ensur-ing food for sale is both safe and suitable for human consumption, that the Food Standards Code is applied and that misleading conduct in connection with the sale of food is prevented. The Act, for the first time, provides the option for Councils to charge fees for food business inspections to assist councils to adequately re-source that health protection activity. The Min-ister for Health, the Department of Human Ser-vices and Local Government administer and en-force the Food Act and a Memorandum of Un-derstanding between the Minister and the Local Government Association outlines arrangements regarding the allocation of responsibilities and the development of policies and guidelines. All Councils have recently provided statistics of the number of inspections of food businesses

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carried out during 2002/03 as part of the Sec-tion 109 requirement for the Minister to pre-pare a report for parliament regarding the op-eration of the Food Act. All up there were 12,279 inspections (3,615 of these were repeat inspections) of 11,464 food businesses carried out in SA last financial year. This means the av-erage number of inspections was 1.06 per food premise, and that at least 75% of premises were inspected at least once during the year. Food poisoning is a very serious illness that re-sults in considerable economic cost and ill health within our communities and in worse case scenarios can lead to long term illness or death of those affected. One of the main ways that Councils participate in minimising ill health from food-borne disease within their communities is by employing Environmental Health Officers to inspect the condition of food premises, the food handling practices applied within those businesses and encouraging (by regulation and education) improved food safety outcomes. The matter of food premises inspection has been referred to the elected members with a view to reviewing service standards and associ-ated resourcing. Public & Environmental Health A high level of public health in the district is a priority to Council’s Public and Environmental Health staff. Authorisation under the Public & Environmental Health Act and Waste Control Regulations encompasses the following activi-ties.

• Provision of sharps containers to public • Communicable Disease interviews/

investigations • Mosquito surveillance, education and control • Swimming Pool and Spa Water Quality • On site waste disposal systems outside of

the sewered area • Pollution prevention and control – odours,

animal waste, stormwater • Health promotion – water quality, Ross River

Virus, vermin etc • Drum Muster – collection and recycling of

chemical drums • Reporting to Department of Human Services • Inspections of commercial premises Chemical Collection Council has held one Drum Muster (used chemical) container collection in June of 2003 and has another one scheduled for the 30t h and 31st of October, 2003 at Council’s new works depot on Maurice Rd. Drum Muster is a pro-gram funded by the Commonwealth Govern-ment for the collection and recycling of (eligible) used farm chemical containers.

A Chemical Collection program was also under-taken from the 8t h to the 11t h of October, in 2002 in conjunction with the Environment Pro-tection Agency. This program was successful in diverting a large amount of disused and un-wanted chemicals and oils from the general waste stream. A total of 9050 kg of waste oil and 7660 kg of unused chemicals were co l-lected at the old council depot site in Thomas Street - a total of over 16 tonnes.

Waste Oil Station Disposal of Waste Oil In 2001 Council applied for and obtained grant funding from Environment Australia’s small grants program to the amount of $21,725 for a “ waste -oil reception facility “ at the Brinkley Road waste depot. This facility is now available to the public free of charge for the disposal of used agricultural and automotive oils. Oil filters and oily rags can also be disposed of at the fa-cility for a small fee which is charged to offset the cost involved in recycling these items. Septic Tanks Council is intending to undertake an audit of septic tank systems within the Council area late in 2003. This has been proposed on the basis that there are a number of old and failing sep-tic tank systems within the Council area which Council has become aware of. The outcome of this audit is to encourage people to repair or upgrade failed septic tank systems in cases where they could create a risk to public health and / or to the environment. It will also assist to address regular circumstances encountered in which home buyers have unknowingly pur-chased non-complying and / or failing waste disposal systems. A snap shot of the status of all systems will allow Council to pro -actively work with home owners to ensure compliance rather than reactively dealing with problems which become apparent at the time of sale. Ranger Services After Hours (Emergency) Service Councils After Hours service answered over 500 calls this year. These calls included general enquiries, burning complaints, compliance is-

14

sues, wandering stock and domestic animals, by-laws infringements and dog attacks. Dog Registration • The total number of dogs registered for the

period was 4694. • Council dealt with 94 noise (barking) com-

plaints. • Responded to 375 wandering dog com-

plaints. • Impounded 252 dogs. • Investigated 56 dog attack or harassment

situations. • Staff also dealt with 180 wandering stock

incidents. Council has also inspected all Greyhound and breeding properties with Development Ap-proval and updated files on these premises. Staff regularly find wandering dogs without proper registration. Unfortunately many of these animals cannot be returned to their owner due to a lack of identification. Over 150 domestic animals needed to be euthanased for the period pertaining to this Annual Report. This is in addition to a further 50 which were successfully placed in new homes by Council staff. This year Council will be conducting a compre-hensive Door Knocking Program in the Rural City of Murray Bridge area. In mid September Council officers will be door knocking premises and obtaining information related to dog own-ership and registration. Unregistered dog own-ers may receive an on the spot fine of $75.00. The reasons for, and benefits of conducting a door knock are as follows: • Increased owner responsibility • Public education to community • To assist in reuniting lost dogs with their

owners • Better identification to assist in the inves-

tigation of dog attacks • To help reduce Council’s public liability Early in 2003 Council conducted a broad adver-tising program to make people aware of when Dog Registrations are due. Council sent out re-newal notices, has had articles in the local pa-per, had broadcasts on the radio and has ad-vertised on road signs around the district. By Laws Councils’ new By Laws are now in place. By Laws are the means by which local government enforce local laws. Currently Council has seven By Laws, these relate to:-

1. Permits and penalties. The means of set-ting penalties for breaches of the By Laws.

2. Council land. For the control of single events and trading on any Council owned o r controlled land.

3. Roads. To control certain activities on roads such as repairing vehicles.

4. Moveable signs. To control the size, de-sign and placement of such signs.

5. Dogs. For restricting the number of dogs kept on a premises.

6. Lodging houses. For controlling, licensing, inspection and regulation of Lodging Houses.

7. Taxis. For the orderly control of the opera-tion of taxi cabs in the district.

8. Building Sites. To control the escape of lit-ter and other material from building sites.

Order Making Policy Council has also adopted its Order Making Po l-icy under The Local Government Act 1999. This replaces many By-Laws which have subse-quently been removed. The Order Making Po l-icy enables Council to take action in respond-ing to nuisance, safety and amenity issues as they apply to individual properties rather than having to establish broad brush By-Laws that apply to all of the community. This is particu-larly useful in allowing Council to not ‘over regulate’ the whole community when address-ing issues that may only be arising in a small percentage of our population. Parking control Regular patrols are undertaken both on the public streets and a number of private car parks including Bridge Plaza. The majority of offences reported are for exceeding the time limits. This role is vital in maintaining regular kerbside parking space turnover to support re-tail activity in the CBD. Regular patrols are also undertaken of all Disabled Permit Parking Zones and when necessary expiation notices are issued. Flammable matter On average some 300 notices are issued within the district requiring owners to reduce the amount of flammable matter on their proper-ties. Development within the Murray Bridge township will reduce this number as vacant blocks have homes placed on them. Rural resi-dents in prone areas are invited to contact Council’s Fire Prevention Officer for an assess-ment of the fire hazard on their properties. No fee applies for this service.

15

New Public Signage Council has erected 16 new public signs around the district to remind the community of important issues such as fire danger season, dog registration, council services and events. These signs are interchangeable to enable them to be used for local information as well as for council wide issues. Illegally Dumped Rubbish Council collects domestic and commercial waste illegally dumped by roadsides and on public land on a weekly basis. Community awareness has resulted in more information be-ing forwarded to Council regarding illegal rub-bish dumping. Council staff will remove the rubbish and where possible search for anything that may identify the person who owns it. Once identified, Council may take legal action against the offender. Penalties can be either in form of an expiation notice ($315), or depend-ing upon the circumstances, a court prosecu-tion in which Council may seek a conviction, the costs involved in cleaning up and disposing of the rubbish, a fine and recovery of legal ex-penses. Members of the public are encouraged to report any instances of illegal dumping so that the environment may be protected from windblown litter affects and so that offenders may be pursued. No Burning Policy Council has endorsed a no domestic burning policy within a defined area that incorporates most of the Murray Bridge residential land. The policy is yet to be gazetted as part of the EPA Schedule 1 No Burning Policy under the Envi-ronment Protection Act. Upon gazettal, no burning will be allowed on domestic premises with the exception of fires used for personal comfort (e.g. braziers and chimneys) or cook-ing (barbeques). Fines may be applicable for any unauthorised burning. Non-domestic prem-ises such as green house market gardeners may still be given permission to burn on site upon application for a burning permit from Council Rangers. Disposal of domestic green waste such as lawn clippings and garden prunings should be un-dertaken by home mulching/composting, via the weekly kerbside wheelie bin rubbish collec-

tion, or by directly depositing it to the Brinkley Landfill facility. Rubbish Collection Wheelie bins were introduced in October 2001 and were well received by our community. On-going adjustment to the collection routes and procedures have seen some extensions to the service in an attempt to maximise the number of residents that can be serviced with only a single collection vehicle. Collections now extend beyond the township of Murray Bridge to include all minor township ar-eas within our Council boundaries as well as those areas that are in proximity to main travel-ling routes between townships. Areas that can-not be provided with a kerb side collection due to inaccessibility or a lack of population density have been serviced with community drop-off collection facilities. In addition, free access per-mits to Councils’ Brinkley landfill facility have also been provided to those not included in the present wheelie bin collection service. Council will continue to expand the collection service in the future and expects that a second collection vehicle to facilitate the inclusion of almost 100% of residents will be achievable in the future. The project has had many positive benefits in-cluding a reduction in the amount of illegal dumping, an improvement in the visual appear-ance of our townships (with the removal of plastic rubbish bags) and a reduction in the in-cidence of feral and stray animals interfering with domestic rubbish. Paper and Cardboard recycling bins have also been made available with the commercial and retail sectors located in the central business district being targeted. The bins are well used and are very successful in seeing these materi-als diverted from landfill and being stored for recycling purposes. Effluent Management Council has begun work on a scheme to assist non-sewered householders and shack owners to install a compliant effluent management sys-tem. Many property owners do not have suffi-cient spare land or funds to allow them to in-stall an appropriate effluent management sys-tem. Whilst Council’s primary role in relation to these matters remains as that of the regula-tor, Council has recognised that little will be gained in fining people who are unable to pro-vide a solution to their effluent management requirements themselves. Various solutions to this problem are being considered by Council and a thorough consul-tation process will be undertaken with all home

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and shack owners affected. Discussions are currently underway with SA Water to ensure that areas of responsibility are clearly defined. Collection of storm water and trade waste from businesses are also being considered to ensure that opportunities for water treatment and re-use are not missed. Strategic Waste Management Council has begun a review of its domestic waste disposal strategy which is primarily fo-cused on the improvement and development of our Brinkley landfill facility. Issues of ongoing operation, infrastructure de-velopment, environmental impact, compliance with EPA requirements, commercial feasibility and landfill capacity are all being investigated to ensure that we are able to meet the future needs of our community and to make the best possible use of our landfill as a commercially valuable asset. Thornton Harfield Manager - Regulatory Services

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HUMAN SERVICES

Community Development Community Cultural Development Advisory Committee The Community Cultural Development Advisory Committee (CCDAC) is a community based ad-visory committee to the Council of the Rural City of Murray Bridge and provides information and advice on policies strategies and projects that will advance cultural development in the Rural City of Murray Bridge. The Committee has up to 13 voting members (including one member of Council, Cr. Ken Cov-entry) broadly representative of the many cul-tural interests in the Rural City of Murray Bridge. Steve Ashley, Arts Officer, Country Arts SA is a non-voting member of the Committee. The Community Development Officer - Faith Box provides support to the Committee. The CCDAC aims to foster and promote a range of projects including advising Council on Com-munity and Cultural issues affecting residents and visitors to the Rural City of Murray Bridge. All projects of the Community Cultural Devel-opment Advisory Committee assist in the im-plementation of the Murray Bridge Cultural Plan which is currently under review. • Artists Register – originally initiated in 2000

to provide a comprehensive listing of artists and craftspeople within the Rural City of Murray Bridge and the skills they can bring to local projects.

• “Hub” Development – A concept design was completed for an Edge Line Art Feature, however after broad public consultation the project is currently on hold. The committee is the driving force behind this project and is keen and enthusiastic to see it through.

• Regional Art Gallery – Concept design has been completed and funding of $189,350 approved from the Regional Art Gallery Capital Development Program for Stage 2 of the gallery development. The tendering process for this project is about to com-mence using local contractors wherever possible.

• Town Hall Grand Piano – Fundraising con-tinues for the purchase of a grand piano for the Murray Bridge Town Hall. The most re-cent fundraising event being the Winter’s Evening of Poetry in Riverglades. Well known singer/song-and-storywriter Bill “Swampy” Marsh attended this successful event.

• Looking Forward – A strategic audit of is-

sues concerning the future development of the Rural City of Murray Bridge was under-taken by Bob Ramsay, Ochre Consultants. The report was prepared as a resource document to assist Council with its delib-erations concerning future development in the Rural City of Murray Bridge.

The CCDAC is undertaking the revision of the Cultural Plan of the Rural City of Murray Bridge to take into account changes and developments that have occurred since its adoption by Coun-cil in 1999. The revised plan will take into con-sideration elements of the ‘Looking Forward’ document as a source of material for the review process. Recommendations resulting for the review will be presented to Council by the CCDAC upon its completion later in 2003. Accessibility Advisory Committee The Accessibility Advisory Committee (AAC) provides information and advice on policies strategies and projects that will assist Council to meet its obligations under the Disability Dis-crimination Act 1992. The Act covers not just those people who have a disability, but those who are perceived to have a disability. The Act makes it unlawful to discriminate against relations or associates of people with disabilities. To do this effectively, access for people with disabilities needs to be the responsibility of the entire organisation. The Committee is made up of community mem-bers who have a disability themselves or who work for a local organisation that has an inter-est in the needs of people with disabilities. The main function of the AAC is the implemen-tation, review and monitoring of the Disability Action Plan, providing a strategic framework for correcting the many difficulties faced by people with disabilities in accessing Council services and facilities. Achievements of the AAC on access improve-ments in 2002/2003 are as follows:- • Improved access/egress from Bridge Clinic. • Catholic Parish – Disabled car parking

allocated. • Petrol Plus, boundary line marking com-

pleted. • Improvements to Albert/Thomas Street by

leveling and dressing pathways. • Phone Survey (Physical Disability of SA) – Sue

Mackenzie • Accessibility Improvements to Visitor Info r-

mation Centre Toilets. • Information in Alternative Formats (audio –

Rural City Review) • Murray Bridge Passenger Service – Improving

accessibility on public transport. 18

• St Josephs School Parking Problems – sign-age and monitoring.

• Letters of support, appreciation and enquiry to many organizations on various accessibil-ity issues in relation not only to wheelchairs and gophers but also prams, and general public access & egress concerns.

• Investigation of leasing of an accessibility bus project, unfortunately the funding was refused.

Current Projects • Mobilong House – Disabled Toilet Signs. • Woolworths Shopping Complex – Bumpy, un-

even, slippery surfaces. • Designated disabled car parking adjacent

Fifth Street • Improvements to footpath (corner Adelaide

& Swanport Road) • Improving accessibility to Police Station

(some complete) • Improving Mannum Road Kerbing to allow

access/egress to Bi-Lo complex. Murray Bridge Regional Gallery This has been a period of progress for The Murray Bridge Regional Gallery. There have been a growing number of visitors to the gallery with a variety of exhibitions rang-ing from touring Country Arts exhibitions to Model Paddle boats and the local Murraylands Collective. The appointment of a part-time Gal-lery Director has provided a support for the vo l-unteers who have kept the gallery operating since its inception. Visiting artists have been invited to speak to school groups and local art-ists providing an educational tool to the local community.

Stage 2 of development of the Gallery is under-way with allocation of funds from the State Government and Council. We will see major im-provements to the ’Pig Pen’ area, which will be-come a multifunctional sculpture court and function area. The foyer area of the gallery will have a major facelift as will the Sixth Street fa-çade of the building. Air conditioning and hu-midity control will upgrade the gallery to Class A Standard, allowing the world’s best artistic exhibitions to be show-cased in Murray Bridge. ED IT Community Communications Centre Located at Edwards Crossing Community House Inc. The new Community Communications Centre, known as ED IT, was developed as a result of a collaboration between the Rural City of Murray Bridge and the management committee of Ed-wards Crossing Community House Inc. Funding was granted by the Commonwealth Govern-ment through the Networking the Nation pro-gram of the Department of Communication. In-formation, Technology and the Arts. The launch of the community communications Centre on 2 June 2003 raised awareness of Internet access and state -of-the-art computer equipment now available through ten computer terminals. The Objectives of ED IT are: • To provide a community gateway for the

provision of online services, education, in-formation, and networking.

Murray Bridge Regional Gallery - Attendance 02/03

160

450

161117

150

90115

800

100

250 260

143

0

100

200

300

400

500

600

700

800

900

04-24.

07.03

The C

leansi

ng

04-30.

05.03

Padd

le Stea

mers

24-30.

04.03

Weaving

The M

urray

07.02-

16.03.

03 Tra

cing T

he Ec

ho

22.01-

03.02.

03 Su

mmer Art E

xhibitio

n

02.01-

19.01.

03 Th

e Secr

et Life

Of Thing

s

16.12-

02.01.

03 Mam

bo/Ja

mbo &

Snaps

hot

15-30.1

1.02 Ro

tary Ar

t Show

27.09-

25.10.

02 Graft

12.08-

15.09.

02 Map

of the

Healin

g Hear

t

24.07-

09.08.

02 Liv

ing Cu

ltures

18.06-

21.07.

02 De

talle Ar

quitec

tonico

Dates & Exhibitions

Nu

mb

er

Total Attendance = 2796Total Days Opened = 201

• To improve community access to the Inter-net, computing and information techno l-ogy, and to promote such technology as a valuable tool for success in individual and community life.

• To equip and promote the Ho use in a way that meets the needs of all potential users, including those from culturally and linguis-tically diverse backgrounds, and people with disabilities.

• To offer affordable services without compromising the longer-term commercial viability of the House.

• To encourage community participation in the House and provide opportunities for work experience and volunteering.

The project thus far has attracted significant attention, supporting the insight of the Rural City of Murray Bridge and Edwards Crossing Community House Inc. We consistently apply best management prac-tices for administering the volunteer work-force, and have managed to establish a profes-sionally managed Community Communications Centre that will be operating as an economi-cally viable community enterprise, that we con-tinue to promote and acknowledge as a pro-vider of IT and ancillary services to the people of Murray Bridge.

Crime Prevention 2002/2003 has been a time of transition for Community Development at the Council with the winding down of the Crime Prevention Pro-gram and the development of a new position, Youth and Reconciliation. These two positions were successfully inte-grated into one, incorporating the Community Grants Program, with an equal focus now on Crime Prevention, Youth and Reconciliation. Following the Government announcement of funding cuts to Crime Prevention in July 2002, the period to December 2002 has been spent completing one -off projects, including the popular Immobiliser Program. We have ensured the continuation of the Crime Prevention Com-mittee with its ongoing key projects including Your Home Your Castle and the Graffiti Trailer. Other initiatives included the production of Neighbourhood Watch maps, a stall at the Murray Bridge Show, a marketing campaign to promote Your Home Your Castle and the estab-lishment of an anti-social behaviour working group following a public meeting to address the issue of speeding in reserves. The Zsolt Telkesi Committee, also under the management of the Crime Prevention Commit-tee provided grants to support young people at

risk of committing crime. We recognise and thank the small group of dedicated volunteers who have made it possi-ble to continue our community-based, crime prevention projects. Youth and Reconciliation January to June 2003 The Youth and Reconciliation program initially focused on building relationships and network-ing with youth and Aboriginal agencies in the Lower Murray. These networks were utilized in April when Council coordinated the successful Workskil and River Murray Training Murraylands Youth Festival during National Youth Week. The event was attended by 250 young people from around the region who came together to participate in a range of activities designed specifically for their enjoyment. The Festival was an excellent example of the benefits of working in partnership with exten-sive support from the business and community sectors. Many young people who were involved with the Festival have joined the recently formed Youth Advisory Committee, now the driving force be-hind Council’s youth agenda. The Youth Advisory Committee will make rec-ommendations to Council on issues affecting young people.

Events During the year the following events received support either in kind, financial or advisory: Classic Adelaide Classic Adelaide was conducted in October 2002 and attracted crowds from all over South Australia and was a spectacle that enthralled all. The 2002 Classic Adelaide was to be the first of five to be held in Murray Bridge but, un-fortunately, we were out bid by the Adelaide Council who has now secured it for 2003. We will attempt to regain this event for 2004. Australian International Pedal Prix The 2002 Australian International Pedal Prix was the largest ever held in Murray Bridge with competitors from all over Australia. The organ-ising committee has stated that it was the best one yet and were very happy with the infra-structure provided by Council. The attendance figures over the weekend were estimated at be-tween 25,000 to 30,000 people.

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The Chamber Of Commerce Pageant & Fire-works Display As in previous years this event was very well run with attendance figures estimated to be around the 15,000 people mark. Council sup-ports this community event via the provision of road closures, infrastructure, staff and a dona-tion for the fireworks show. The Pageant and Fireworks Show succeeds in bonding the people of Murray Bridge together in the lead up to the Christmas period. Mobilong Prison Swim for Kids This event has raised in excess of $50,000 since its inception and continues to provide support for those less fortunate than us by rais-ing funds for equipment that provides intellec-tually disabled people with the opportunity to communicate with others. The 2003 event raised $5,500 that was used to provide a local child with said equipment. Murray Bridge Agricultural and Horticultural Show The 2002 Murray Bridge A&H Show attracted up to 15,000 people over the weekend and contin-ues to survive where other A&H shows have co l-lapsed. Our show is one of the few left in South Australia and is surviving only on the efforts of a very dedicated committee. The 2002 Show provided the usual A&H exhibitions as well as adding some new family orientated sites that ensured all were catered for. Fun Run for Hope This church organised event attracted up to 500 competitors who ran the 25-kilometre course raising funds for Church infrastructure whilst adopting the theme of health for all. Jet Ski Festival Run by the Boating Industry of South Australia this event teaches people on the safety aspect of using a jet sky. Any one is invited to attend, and ride the Jet Ski’s on offer, once they have completed a safety course. The 2003 event at-tracted up to 500 people to Sturt Reserve in-cluding international competitors who donated their time to instruct the visiting public. Carols by Candlelight The 2002 Carols by Candlelight was a very suc-cessful event that attracted up to 300 people to the commencement of the festive season. New Years Eve Fireworks Display We conducted the first New Years Eve Fireworks display with three aims in mind. One was to es-tablish an event to take over from the now de-funct Victor Harbour New Years Eve Fireworks Show; two was to attract the visitors that usu-ally went there to Murray Bridge and the third was to encourage the Bridgeport Hotel to take over the future running of the event. We have

been successful in all aims with last years show proving to be a crowd favorite. Walk Against Want As in past years we have supported this annual fundraiser by providing infrastructure and road closures as required. Organisers report that this year’s event attracted the most participants ever and therefore raised more money than previous years. National Wakeboard Titles This event attracted competitors from all over Australia as well as a large number of specta-tors who booked out nearly all the accommoda-tion venues within Murray Bridge as well as sev-eral local houseboat bookings. We have ten-dered for the 2004 National Titles back as well as the State Titles. We should know more about our applications in the coming months. Prestige Medley Bowling Tournament Murray Bridge has been fortunate enough to host this event for the past two years in a row with it already being booked for 2004. This is the largest teams lawn bowling event in the state and, as in most of our events, contributes significantly to our economic growth via accom-modation bookings, food outlets, tourism op-tions, petrol outlets etc., Australia Day Celebrations This year’s celebrations, as in past years, ca-tered for the family groups via the tireless ef-forts of the service clubs that provide the food, games etc., for the day. We still pick up our eld-erly citizens from all aged care facilities and transport to and from Sturt Reserve for the event. Guest speakers over the last few years have included Dame Roma Mitchell, Patrick Secker, Peter Goers and Jim Hullick with nego-tiations underway to secure the services of Lionel Williams for the 2004 event.

AUSTRALIA DAY AWARDS

The following awards were announced at a function at Sturt Reserve on Australia Day

Citizen of the Year Brian Guy

Sportsperson of the Year Todd Lienert

Young Sportsperson of the Year Luke Morgan

Community Event of the Year T & R Murray Bridge Gold Cup

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Other events to receive assistance during 2003/4 include: • The Callington Miners Fair • Lighthouse Foundation Charity Run • Murraylands Youth Festival • Christmas Symphony on the Serengeti • Murray Mallee Community Health Ser-

vices ‘Walk for a Cure’ • Reconciliation Week ‘Wishing Well’ • NAIDOC ‘Bridge Walk’ • Orchid Club Shows • Community Club Members Day • Regional Art Society Shows Our events for 2003/04 include the Australia Day Celebrations, the SA Ski Titles, The Soccer International, The Christmas Pageant, Swim for Kids, the Murray Bridge Show, Carols by Can-dlelight, the Pedal prix, The Bridge 110, the Sky Gift, the Jet Ski Festival, Walk Against Want and the Fun Run for Hope. We will, of course, be seeking more events as the year goes on.

Tourism/Marketing Advertising / Editorials Over the last financial year we have had editori-als placed in the ‘Out & About’ section of the Advertiser, the Tourism section of the Sunday Mail, the Courier, the Weekender & SA Sightsee-ing as well as editorials and advertisements in the Murraylands Secrets Visitor Guide, House-boat Holidays Magazine, SA Wine & Food maga-zine and the South Australian Accommodation guide. We have also placed all our events into the SA Secrets Events Magazine. We have updated the Murray Bridge tourism WebPages and events WebPages to include all new events and tourism attractions. We have distributed our events and Murray Bridge generic brochures through all South Australian Visitor Information Centres as well as distributing them personally throughout Vic-toria and NSW. Radio/Television Over the past 12 months we have been fortu-nate enough to gain airtime that featured both our events and tourism attractions on 5MU, POWER FM, 5AA, SAFM, 5AD and the tourism channel 88. We have also featured on Postcards, Discover SA, the Fishing and Boating Show and The Great Outdoors as well as gaining exposure on the ‘See Australia’ campaign. This exposure, both intrastate and interstate, is part of an ongoing marketing campaign that commenced in 2001 and is aimed at gaining maximum exposure for minimal cost.

Marketing Committees We currently represent Council on the Murray-lands Regional Tourism Association and the Murraylands Marketing Committee. Representa-tion at this level is vital as it permits us to gain as much editorial as possible for Murray Bridge when features are decided on for the Murray-lands. We have also established and will continue to maintain strong ties with the South Australian Tourism Commission, Australian Major Events, the South Australian Australia Day Council, the Australian Tourism Authority, the Australian Federation of Travel Agents, the Adelaide Con-vention Centre and other regional tourism bod-ies. Tourism/Marketing Plan This was completed in August of 2002 and is available for the public at Council’s reception desk upon request. Increased Retail Spending The results of a survey conducted in December of 2002 indicated that the economic invest-ment in Murray Bridge as a result of accommo-dation to attend events during the previous year was in the vicinity of $11.8 million. Our goal during this financial year is to limit the expenditure on tourism and events whilst maintaining performance standards. We will achieve this by teaching each organising body to be responsible for their own event with Council only supplying the infrastructure and advice as requested. Visitor Numbers The year 2002/03 returned the best ever fig-ures relating to visitors to Murray Bridge. It is interesting to note that the main increase in numbers seems to coincide with our major events. This would indicate that Council’s strategy of using events as a catalyst to attract visitors to the Rural City is working to the point where we are receiving return visitation for those that have been here to witness our events.

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BUSINESS SERVICES Business Services comprises of two key areas: • Operations; and • Community Services

Operations The Operations Unit has continued to operate with a similar budget and a slightly reduced workforce to prior years with further productiv-ity increases. The main areas under the Operations Unit are: • Road and Footpath Construction and Mainte-

nance • Stormwater Construction and Maintenance • Parks and Garden • Swimming Pool Management • Traffic Management • Engineering Design, Maintenance and Sur-

veying • Protection of the Environment, and • Plant and Equipment Road Construction and Maintenance The level of new bitumen sealed road construc-tion continued at increased levels. The key projects in the rural sealing program were Jar-vis Road, Pallamana Road, the Monarto Inter-change, and temporary works on the Flagstaff Road/Wellington Road Intersection. Jarvis Road Jarvis Road was in a poor state of repair with an increasing demand from industry and heavy traffic which led to the upgrade of 7km of road at a cost of $282,800. There is approximately 5km of Jarvis road remaining to be sealed. Pallamana Road Pallamana Road was re -constructed and sealed from Schenscher Road to Palmer Road, a total of 8.5km. While the project commenced in the 2001/02 financial year, the project carried over and was completed this financial year. Funding for this project was sought from the Special Roads Program on a 2/3 basis. The total pro-ject cost was $830,000, with $534,000 being received from Special Roads Grant Funding.

Pallamana Road Sealed Monarto Interchange Southern Ramps The Monarto Interchange Southern Ramps were completed this year by Council at a cost just over $1.2m. The majority of the project was funded by the Department of Business Manu-facturing and Trade, with some additional fund-ing provided by Transport SA. The opening of these ramps will provide both light and heavy road user access to the growing industries within the area. Flagstaff Road Due to ongoing delays with land acquisition, temporary works were undertaken on the Flag-staff / Jervois Road intersection to build up the vertical alignment and seal the existing road. Transport SA has now acquired the necessary land required for the construction of the “T” in-tersection and construction will be completed in the 2003/2004 budget. Other Road Projects Other road projects completed this financial year included: • Jose Street • Marten Street, Mypolonga • Bells Road, Monteith • Reserve Drive • Zerna Avenue • Prosperity Grove • Christian Road Included in this construction was kerbing, seal-ing and drainage works. In addition, reseals were undertaken for the following roads: • Maurice Road • Johnstone Avenue • Hirt Street • Montgomery Avenue • Burdekin Avenue • Eleanor Terrace

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Master Plan Projects A number of projects were continued as part of Council’s Master Plan. Their progress through-out this financial year is described below.

W harf Area Development Stage 2 of the Wharf Area Development was un-dertaken this financial year as part of a three-staged project. Works undertaken as part of stage 2 cost $370,000, of which $200,000 was sourced from special grants. Key outcomes of stage 2 included:

• a new car park designed for boat trailers • a river boat mooring facility constructed

alongside the Murray Bridge Wharf creating a facility for tourists to pull up to and shop in the town centre

• an environmental swale planted with sedge and grass to filter water from the car park before running into the river

• lawn seed planted along the kerb edge to give a green belt as you enter the Wharf area, and

• continued landscaping following some initial weed control.

Wharf Area Mooring Facility Sturt Reserve Development The Sturt Reserve Development continued this financial year, with works being focused along Murray Cods Drive. The existing road resulted in poor traffic management which was not con-ducive to a “shared” recreational passage for both road users and pedestrians. As a result, Murray Cods Drive was changed to a one-way traffic flow with increased car parking. Con-struction included pathways, kerbing and hot-mix seal.

Sturt Reserve, New Car Parking and Line Marking

The near completion of stage 3 has added an-other transformation of Sturt Reserve with more recreational facilities to enhance existing infrastructure. Additional infrastructure pro-vided includes: 1. Extra lighting for security and night time

use; 2. Road transformed into one way road with

curves to slow down traffic speeds; 3. New footpath from Bunyip across reserve to

Jaensch Road; 4. Extra advanced 3m Red Gums to enhance

existing trees; 5. New kerbing to allow water to be directed

into the wetland; 6. Re-establishment of turf and irrigation sys-

tem; and 7. Two new gazeboes with lights, BBQ’s and

table settings. Adelaide Road PLEC and Streetscape Council’s beautification strategy has been adopted as part of the Master Plan. The under-grounding of power along Adelaide Road began this financial year, commencing at Swanport Road and concluding at Charles Street. Stage 2 will see this continued to Thomas Street, and Stage 3, will see this project conclude at Mau-rice Road Intersection. Stage 1 of the project cost in excess of $700,000 with Council’s contribution being $235,00 this financial year. Key tasks of the project included: • undergrounding ETSA wires • planting of lawn along Adelaide Road • planting advanced trees and landscaping,

and • repairing/completion of footpaths In doing so Council installed sub surface irriga-tion to reduce water use and vandalism.

Adelaide Road Streetscape

24

Other Council Projects and Services In addition to the above projects, other note-worthy projects and services provided by the Operations Department in 2002/03 are summa-rised below. Kerb Etching Due to vandalism occurring on street signs, kerb etching was carried out to replace street signs in the urban area. Areas around Verdun Road were completed some years ago. How-ever, this financial year, the eastern side of Swanport Road was completed with street names etched onto each side of the intersec-tion and corners of the intersection, together with house numbers.

Sign bent around post (on display in LGC)

Etching at each corner of intersection Storm Water Construction The construction of storm water drains within the Rural City of Murray Bridge has continued to provide relief from flooding. Areas upgraded are Hill Street/Standen Street, Diamantina Court. It is expected that Adelaide Road Catch-ment Stage 1 and Stage 2 will be completed in the 2003/2004 budget. Road Maintenance Road maintenance has continued to be sus-tained at similar levels to previous years. These include bitumen patching and repairs, repairs to unsealed roads and patrol grading of unsealed roads. The purchase of a semi side tipper truck has greatly aided the repair of un-sealed roads by being able to supply road base material where needed and to be able to spread

the material ready for grading and compacting. The seven-day patrol-grading roster is continu-ing to provide a greater level of service for rural areas. Parks and Gardens The level of activity within the Parks & Gardens Section has continued at high levels. This year saw new parklands being developed, the use of astro turf to conserve on water and mainte-nance, additional street tree plantings, as well as regular maintenance activities and cemetery operations. Key projects within the Parks and Gardens Section are summarised below. Homburg Park The installation of a new toilet block and land-scaping was instigated by the Cycle Speedway as they were using the school toilets on week-ends. This has brightened an otherwise dull corner of the park and given Southern town residents an extra toilet as the only toilet on this side of town was at Long Island Reserve. The landscaping was undertaken by Council staff and Work for the Dole.

Homburg Park Toilets Adelaide Road Cemetery Fence Adelaide Road Cemetery’s old fence was in a poor condition, having been built in 1924 with minimal maintenance since. This financial year, Council’s gardening staff installed a new tubular fence, with many positive remarks since completion in June 2003.

Adelaide Road Cemetery Fence

25

Swimming Pool Management The outdoor swimming pool was operated on the same basis as previous years although some minor improvements were made. The ar-rangements with the Swimming Club have al-tered so that the Club does not have exclusive use of the pool on weekday evenings and pub-lic use continues on a shared basis thus allow-ing the pool to remain open to the public until 7.00 p.m. rather than closing at 5.30 p.m. Council is seeking a review of the swimming pool operations to determine the future direc-tion of the pool. Issues such as the provision of a complete new indoor heated pool complex, the heating and enclosing of the existing pool complex or maintaining the pool in its existing state are to be considered. Until the future direction is known no major maintenance or upgrading of the existing pool will be undertaken. The pool continues to be popular and a valuable community asset, how-ever its shortcomings limit its potential and it continues to be heavily subsidised. Traffic Management New regulatory and advisory signs have been installed as a result of the previous year’s audit. A number of intersections were up-graded with safety bar island treatments and a number of road safety initiatives were intro-duced, including some as the result of the Road Safety Committee’s investigations and re-quests. Engineering Design, Maintenance & Survey-ing Council’s Engineering staff have continued to provide design and management for most ar-eas of the Operations Unit activities. The Engi-neering and design area comprises of one full time engineer, a surveyor and special projects manager. Design work includes all facets asso-ciated with road design (pavement, traffic etc), together with reserve and wetland design. Works Depot In November 2002, Council purchased 21 Hindmarsh Road for $600,000 as a new works depot. The infrastructure at Thomas Street was in need of significant upgrade and requiring work urgently to meet increasing occupational health and safety standards, both in the office and the workshop. Furthermore, security was becoming an issue in recent years, with equip-ment being damaged or stolen. In addition to purchasing 21 Hindmarsh Road, an additional $270,000 additional works is be-ing undertaken which includes carparking, ad-ditional shedding, stormwater management, mechanical pits and wash down bay. This work will continue into the 2003/04 financial year.

New Works Depot Plant and Equipment The Operations Unit Workshop continues to provide management, servicing and repairs to Council’s fleet of plant and equipment. This is a well operated unit that provides a quick response and comprehensive repair service. The purchase of the new depot and work shop facilities have added to staff morale and pro-ductivity improvements. The purchase of some new Items of plant has improved our efficiencies. Overall, the contin-ual upgrade and consolidation of Council’s plant and machinery is resulting in reduced down time, and mechanical maintenance costs. This is resulting in greater utilisation of ma-chinery and equipment within Council. In addition, the purchase of a new truck and trailer (replacing two trucks) means that greater loads can be carried with only one operator (rather than two). This will result in an overall savings of over $40,000 labour plus other run-ning costs such as registration, fuel etc associ-ated with the reduction of one truck. Other small plant purchased were a post hole digger and jackhammer to complement our maintenance truck saving time eg sign installa-tion

Post Hole Digger / Jackhammer

26

Community Care Service Programs The Community Care Service programs co -ordinated by the Rural City of Murray Bridge provide services that broadly target frail and at risk aged persons or younger disabled adults with moderate to severe disabilities who with-out the assistance of these programs would be at risk of entering residential care prematurely. The programs are provided through a partner-ship between Council and Commonwealth and State Governments. Council is one of a number of service providers in our region who each have specified roles and target groups. Council has three distinct program areas, these being Home and Community Care consisting of Homeassist, Dementia Care and Transport, Commonwealth Respite for Carers and Carer’s Group, and Veterans Home Care. The Home and Community Care (HACC) pro-gram is a State funded program (although the HACC program itself is a joint federal / state initiative) which aims to provide a wide range of services to frail aged and disabled people. Council’s HACC funded program operates via a service level agreement that focuses mainly on aged residents (with a small component for the younger disabled adults). The Commonwealth Respite for Carers (CRC) program is a Commonwealth funded program which focuses on providing in-home respite for those who act as carers of the aged or dis-abled, plus a Carer’s Support Group. Veterans Home Care (VHC) program is a Com-monwealth funded program which provides in-home respite and home care assistance specifi-cally to veterans and war widows. In each case, Council contributes significantly to the programs in cash or in kind. There are currently 327 clients registered with Council’s Community Care Service programs, 277 are active at the present time. Some clients use the service more regularly than others. Voluntary contributions for the Transport Pro-gram are being well supported with most cli-ents contributing. HACC Programs Volunteer Transport Program The Transport program covers essential trips within the Council area. Volunteers using their own vehicles support the local program. They are reimbursed for fuel costs. The shopping service is popular, and 53 clients are catered for fortnightly. Clients usually travel 2-3 to a

vehicle making it a social occasion as well as a shopping or medical trip. For the past nine months we have been trialling an Accessible Bus for Adelaide medical appoint-ment in conjunction with the Passenger Trans-port Board (3 month initial trial was extended to 12 months as the first period proved incon-clusive). The bus can cater for 9 clients plus 2 wheelchair clients and can also take a gopher if there are no wheelchairs on that day. Frail cli-ents can be lifted on a ramp if they find it diffi-cult to get into the bus via the step. The bus goes to all major hospitals in Adelaide and vari-ous other medical specialists and clinics on a daily basis. Uptake of the service was very slow initially. During the extended period, the ser-vice has evolved and more people are using this service. Feedback from the survey forms sent out indicates that the service is considered of a high standard and is well received. Ap-proximately twenty five percent of resident that are now transported would fall outside our HACC guidelines (because the service is partly funded by the Passenger Transport Board, all transport disadvantaged people are eligible), and the service to younger disabled residents of Murray Bridge has been very well received. Because the bus has taken over the Adelaide run formally provided with the aid of volunteer drivers, we are able assist clients with appoint-ments in Mount Barker (eye surgery) and Stir-ling ( CT scans and x-rays). This service is gain-ing momentum as clients learn it is available. We also have potential to take clients to Strathalbyn to the rehabilitation centre there. Several recreational bus trips have been organ-ised during the year at a nominal cost to those participating. The trips aid carers and clients who feel isolated in the community to achieve some social interactions. This is viewed as a pro-active primary health initiative as it gets these clients out of their homes and gives them something to look forward to. Home Maintenance and Modifications The maintenance program helps with most as-pects of minor home repairs. It caters for jobs that are one -off or once per year and depends on funding being available. Tasks must fall into a category, which benefit the health, safety or security of the client, eg. minor plumbing and carpentry, installation of grab rails, one -off rub-bish removal, one-off garden cleanups, installa-tion of security devices on windows and doors etc. Modifications fall into this category and may be major jobs. Bathrooms that must be al-tered and made safe for stroke victims to use are just one example where the client pays for the materials and the program assists with the payment for labour to a certain value. The work is undertaken with advice from the Occupa-

27

tional Therapist, from Murray Mallee Health Service and monitored by the Community Ser-vices Administrator. Home and Community Care This program consists of Dementia respite, and home help, which assists clients who find diffi-cultly in doing the day-to-day chores. With our help, clients are able to remain independent in their homes for longer. Emergency situations that arise are dealt with promptly. The good rapport is maintained with our community ser-vice contractors this ensures the smooth run-ning of the program. Commonwealth Respite For Carers This program assists carers to maintain a life outside their home and caring role and primar-ily provides a carer who looks after the client for a period while the spouse or primary carer has a break or does personal business. In con-junction with the Southern Country Carer Res-pite Centre we are able to arrange overnight and weekend respite at times so carers can have an extended break. The Murray Bridge Carers Group meets monthly for peer support and education on the caring role as well as outings at other times. Day long outings are an ongoing feature of the program and a once a year, a carer retreat which is usually over-night was extended this year to two nights. There is good evidence to indicate that it is of great benefit to those who partici-pate. Veteran Home Care As a Service Provider in this area we have pro-vided service to clients mainly in Murray Bridge, five clients being serviced in Mannum*. The services that are provided through Veteran Affairs are Personal Care, Respite, Domestic As-sistance and Gardening. Some clients are using up to three different services. The program seems to be working quite well to date and we have a good working relationship with the Department of Veterans Affairs. *Clients from outside our LGA are serviced on a cost recovery basis. Collaboration with other service providers During the past year program coordinators from across the region have continued to be involved as members of the Murray Mallee Ag-ing Taskforce. This group was formed to de-velop a strategic plan and assist in better coor-dinating service delivery for the Murray Mallee region. Participation in other forums include Dementia Co-ordinators Regional Network, Aged & Community Care Workers Committee

and Veterans Affairs Coordinators Network and Primary Health Workers Forum. These links as-sist us to be part of a seamless package of care for the residents of Murray Bridge and the Murray Mallee region. Murray Mallee Aging Taskforce The Murray Mallee Aging Taskforce is made up of service providers and interested parties from the region. Council has agreed to auspice the grant applied for and to subsequently be the employer for the project officer who will coordi-nate the project. Two years of funding has been secured, with the project officer commencing in April 2003. Statistics HACC Transport—No of return trips Adelaide 244 Local 1779 Clients by Category

NB: Some clients receive services from more than one program.

Category Males Females

HACC Transport—Adelaide 28 73

HACC Transport—Local 26 104

HACC Home Assist—Domestic 4 31

HACC Home Assist—Maintenance 1 5

HACC—Dementia 4 6

Comm. Respite for Carers 8 10

Carers Group 10 15

Veterans Home Care —Domestic 17 14

Veterans Home Care —Personal Care

1 0

Veterans Home Care —Respite 6 0

28

Lerwin Nursing Home Lerwin Nursing Home is a 50 bed facility that provides accommodation for people who have a high level of need for continuous nursing care. Lerwin is located in Joyce Street and is de-signed as a stand-alone facility, however, the home is part of the Business Services Unit and Councils general staff assist in a number of functional areas of governance including ac-counting, payroll, and human resources. This year, being the last of the 3 years of ac-creditation from the first round of Aged Care Accreditation has seen a large amount of work undertaken in preparation for the next audit of standards at Lerwin. In January 2003, two auditors visited Lerwin (over 2 full days) to carry out the second round quality audit at Lerwin. The focus of the audit was on demonstrated quality improvements in service delivery and how these improvements have provided positive resident outcomes. Once again, Lewrin achieved a compliant rating in all 44 aged care standards . All staff must be congratulated on this excellent result as the achievement of continuous quality improve-ment can only happen when all staff participate in the process. The trend of lower levels of work related injury claims established over the last couple of years has continued and this has meant that Lerwin now attracts a bonus rather than a penalty on it’s workers compensation insurance. Having fewer and less severe injuries is also obviously good news for workers also. The “No Lift, No Injury” safe working program promoted by the Australian Nurses Federation is now an integral part of Lerwin’s manual handling framework and lifting equipment has continued to be up-dated. Lerwin’s efforts in this regard were rec-ognized during the year by a Local Government award for “Innovation in Manual Handling”. Demand for beds at Lerwin has remained high although waiting lists were a little smaller at times this year. This was mainly due to a higher rate of admissions compared with last year. Priority continues to be on a basis of highest need with a strong emphasis on the needs of local people. Admissions for the year were as follows: • Permanent residents admissions 18

Of these 8 were diagnosed with dementia. • Respite admissions 17

Of these 9 were diagnosed with dementia and 2 were younger disabled.

Some of these admissions were for the same person, i.e. some people had been in respite

then became permanent and some people on respite had several admissions before they be-came permanent. Four (4) of the permanent residents admitted have passed away within 6 - 7 months of admission and did not have a diag-nosis of dementia. In keeping with the recommendations adopted from the Strategic Plan completed last year, an application for 25 extra bed licenses and a capital grant was submitted in the 2002 Aged Care Approvals Round. The application was successful with 20 bed licenses and a capital grant of $835,000 allocated. Planning for the expansion commenced in March 2003 with a call for tenders for the services of a Project Manager / Architect. Hodgkison Architects were the successful tenderer and have now com-menced design work for the expansion. Resident activities are an important feature of the care provision at Lerwin. This year, the ac-tivities program was wide ranging and included the following events and outings: • Murray Bridge Orchid Show • Men’s day • Weekly bingo • Cooking • Carpet bowls • Games afternoons • Visiting singing groups • Various lunch outings including Community

Club, Dundee’s, Golf Club etc. • Crafts including handicrafts and woodcrafts • Visiting dancers including regular visits by

Old Time Dance Club • Film afternoons • Melbourne Cup luncheon • Flower arranging • Visiting various displays at the Town Hall • Christmas party • Slide afternoons • Various cultural days including an Italian day • Drama concerts • Visits to Monarto Zoo • Weekly church services and communions A number of dedicated volunteers have contin-ued to assist residents at Lerwin this year. Their efforts are very much appreciated by both residents and staff. Volunteers have assisted with resident activities, feeding of residents and general visiting and talking to residents. Several volunteers have also brought pets in for visits with residents. Generous donations from a number of service clubs, individuals and bequests from families and friends of former residents have once again enabled Lerwin to purchase much needed equipment.

29

Murray Bridge Public Library The Public Library continues to provide a range of important services to the people in this com-munity. There is a huge range of books avail-able for loan, as well as a reference collection. In addition, cassettes, CDs, videos, magazines and jigsaw puzzles are available for people to borrow. Particularly well used this year have been books in languages other than English. We have re-sponded to the needs of Afghani refugees with a series of videos – “English, Have a Go” as well as books for them. A staff member also found a news service in Farsi (their language) on the Internet, which several of the men use. The Library purchased and implemented a new computer software package, Spydus this year. Spydus is supplied by Civica who also provide Council with its Authority software. All staff are trained in its use, and offer training to mem-bers of the public. Six new personal computers were also purchased which has assisted staff and public alike. This year library staff have undertaken a pro-ject which has expanded the biography collec-tion by moving titles from the general collec-tion, so that these books are grouped together. As a result, staff have undertaken the massive task of re -labelling books that have been reor-ganized. This task for all fiction collections and much of the non-fiction has now been com-pleted. Staff continue to offer training on use of the Internet to members of the public. The Library is also sponsor organization for Networks for You, a state wide strategy to encourage more people to use the internet, which provides a one-on-one training programme. The Library is once again very grateful for the support of its numerous volunteers this year. Some of these volunteers have been supporting the Library for a number of years. Although one long serving volunteer has needed to give up her voluntary work due to family pressures, others continue to offer their services, and new volunteers offer their services from time to time. Some of the valuable work carried out by volunteers has included processing new mate-rial, sorting donated pamphlets, mending and shelving books. Volunteers have also begun work on indexing the volumes of “Murray Bridge Town Records” this year, making infor-mation put into book form several years ago by a WorkSkil program more useful. Another vo l-unteer is indexing the Birth, Marriage and Death notices in the Murray Valley Standard since 1967. These will be valuable resources for many years to come.

Volunteers, with the sponsorship of Friends of the Library, continue to hold very successful school holiday programmes this year, and these have once again proved very popular. The Library has participated in work experience, both with school students, and with adults re-quiring rehabilitation. Council continues to investigate options for re-locating the Library. This issue has regained some prominence following recent Council elections. The Librarian, with support from all Library staff as required, continued as Cemetery Cura-tor during this year. This included discussion and plans for the development of the Bremer Road Cemetery. Library staff have also com-pleted the data entry of old paper based ceme-tery records. Friends of the Library have continued their valuable support to Library staff. Their major fundraiser was a giant book sale during the first week in November. It was held in the front of the Town Hall building. With proceeds this year, the Friends bought a scanner and printer for use by Library patrons. The Library appreci-ates the assistance and enthusiasm of this dedicated group. This year, the new Christian School on Adelaide Road has negotiated bringing students to the Library on a weekly basis so they can do research for assignments and borrow Library material. This arrangement has been of mutual benefit and has been appreciated by the school. The State Library of South Australia embarked on a state wide promotion for libraries entitled 2003@yourlibrary. during this year in an effort to raise awareness about public libraries. A dif-ferent aspect of library service was chosen for each month. June was designated Treasures in your Library. We contacted local people who had won awards such as the Centenary Medal and invited them to the Library. Each week day in June, a different “Treasure”: was interviewed. This proved worthwhile with a number of peo-ple listening to these fascinating people with wonderful stories to tell! There are the statistics for the Library usage over the 2002/03 financial year, which in addi-tion to key highlights described above, show a very active and vibrant library, with strong de-mand for a range of services within the commu-nity. These statistics are available on request. Chris Collins Manager—Business Services

30

STATUTORY REPORTING COMMUNITY LAND The Local Government Act 1999 places requirements on Local Government to under-take detailed analysis of all land (including buildings) that it owns or has care and control of.

Section 193 states: (1) All local government land (except roads) that is

owned by a council or under a council’s care, control and management at the commence-ment of this section is taken to have been classified as community land unless

(a) the council resolves to exclude the land from classification as community land within three years after the commencement date;

(2) Before the council resolves to exclude land from classification as community land under subsec-tion (1)(a), it must follow the relevant steps set out in its public consultation policy.”

During the past 12 months considerable work has been undertaken to identify, assess and responsibly manage the land that belongs to Council. Seemingly a simple exercise has taken many months of research as much of the land is Crown Land under the care and control of Council. Under the previous Act there was no need to distinguish between the two. The financial year saw Council exclude a raft of land from the classification as “Community Land”. Whilst doing this, Council resolved an undertaking to consult with the community re-garding any significant future dealings of land that had been excluded even though the legis-lation doesn't enforce this upon Council. The Local Government Act 1999 also requires Councils to develop management plans for all Community Land. This will include land under Council’s care and control as well as all land that is not excluded. This will be the main aim of Council’s Community Land officer during 2003/04. Prior to adopting a Management Plan, public consultation is required. Some work has commenced on the format and presentation of management plans but no management plans have been publicly con-sulted upon or adopted. It is one of the key targets over the next 18 months to undertake a review of Council’s assets with a view to maximising community benefit with available resources for both the immediate and longer term. This has begun in 2002/03 with the research and registering of all users of Council property, this includes all parties whether they have a formal agreement or not. There is an increasing need to balance community expectations with ageing infrastructure.

COMPETITIVE TENDERING & PURCHASING Throughout the year Council has established many contracts for the provision of works and services. The larger contracts were for spray sealing and rubble crushing contracts, however the establishment of many smaller formal contracts decreased Council's exposure to risk by ensuring contactors are adequately indemnified and licensed. Improved processes have been put in place and these will be monitored for further improve-ment. EMPLOYMENT STATISTICS

* Full time equivalents FT Full time PT Part time CAS Casual SENIOR EXECUTIVE OFFICERS

There are 5 Senior Officers, four of whom are employees and one who is paid via a consult-ing firm. The structure did not change during 2002/2003.

DEPARTMENT FTE* FT PT CAS

Governance 2 2

Corporate Services 9.5 7 5 1

Regulatory Services 8 6 2 2

Human Services 6.9 1 10 1

Business Services (excl. Lerwin)

50.2

49

1

14

Business Services—Lerwin

43.5

4

38

41

TOTAL 120.1 69 56 59

NO OF STAFF

31

P o s i t i o n H e l d B a n d ( i n c l u d e s a l l

s u p e r a n n u a t i o n , b o n u s e s a n d a l l o w a n c e s )

C h i e f E x e c u t i v e O f f i c e r $ 1 0 0 , 0 0 0 - $ 1 2 0 , 0 0 0

M a n a g e r , C o r p o r a t e S e r v i c e s $ 7 0 , 0 0 0 - $ 9 0 , 0 0 0

M a n a g e r , R e g u l a t o r y S e r v i c e s $ 7 0 , 0 0 0 - $ 9 0 , 0 0 0

M a n a g e r , H u m a n S e r v i c e s $ 7 0 , 0 0 0 - $ 9 0 , 0 0 0

M a n a g e r , B u s i n e s s S e r v i c e s * * ( p a i d v i a a c o n s u l t i n g f i r m – t o t a l c o s t i n c l u d e s G S T )

$ 1 4 0 , 0 0 0 - $ 1 6 0 , 0 0 0

FREEDOM OF INFORMATION

INFORMATION STATEMENT This Information Statement is published by the Rural City of Murray Bridge in accordance with the requirements of the Local Government Act, 1999 (Freedom of Information Provisions). The Rural City of Murray Bridge is pleased to comply with the legislation and welcomes enquiries with regards to access to documents. An updated Information Statement is published every 12 months.

Council Agenda and Minutes Council Boards and Committees Management Committees Delegations

STRUCTURE AND FUNCTIONS OF COUNCIL Council consists of 9 Ward Councillors and the Mayor. Council is the decision making body on all policy matters. Council meetings are held on the 4t h Mon-day of each month and commence at 7.00 pm (except if the Monday is a public holiday then the meeting is held on the following evening. Alternate arrange-ments may occur in December). Members of the public are welcome to attend. Agendas of the Council Meetings are placed on public display no less than three days prior to those meetings. Minutes are placed on display within five days of the meeting. Associated reports are made available free of charge to members of the public who attend the meetings. A number of Boards and Committees comprising elected members, staff and the public have been established to investigate particular issues. Currently these are:

• Works & Finance Committee • Development Assessment Panel • Review of Arrangements for use of Ovals Working Party • Donations/Community Grant Funding Committee • Crime prevention Advisory Committee • Murray Bridge Road Safety Committee • Community Cultural Development Advisory Committee • Accessibility Advisory Committee • Murray Bridge Town Bus Board • Lerwin Expansion Committee • Library Facilities Committee

All of the following management committees have been appointed under Sec-tion 41 of the Local Government Act and management properties on behalf of Council:

• Captain’s Cottage Museum Management Committee • Murray Bridge Showgrounds Management Committee • Swanport Aquatic Centre Management Committee • Johnstone Park Combined Clubs Management Committee • Monarto War Memorial Hall Management Committee • Mypolonga Community Hall Management Committee • Murray Bridge Roundhouse Management Committee

The Chief Executive Officer and other offices have the delegated authority from Council to make decisions on a number of specified administra-tive and policy matters. These delegations are listed in the Policy Manual and are reviewed annually by Council.

Council Meetings

In keeping with the legislative requirements of the Local Government Act, 1999 delegations are made that assist Council to:

• determine policies to be applied by the Council in exercising its discre-tionary powers;

• determine the type, range and scope of projects to be undertaken by the Council; and

• develop comprehensive management plans, budgets, financial controls and performance objectives and indicators for the operations of the Council.

The Council makes decisions which direct and/or determine its activities and functions. Such decisions include the approval of works and services to be undertaken, and the resources which are to be made available to undertake such works and services. Decisions are also made to determine whether or not approvals are to be granted for applications from residents for various forms of development. SERVICES FOR THE COMMUNITY Council makes decisions on policy issues relating to services that are provided for members o f the public. These services currently include:

Aged Care Transport for • medical appointments and • essential shopping

Bus shelters Car parks Clean air controls Community halls and centres Crime prevention Cycle tracks Dementia care Dog control Environmental health matters Garbage collection Home assistance for the elderly Immunisation programs Litter bins Parking bays / street closures Parking controls

Parks and reserves Planning and development controls Playground equipment Public cemeteries Public libraries Public seating Public toilets Recreational / sporting facilities Respite care Roads / footpaths / kerbing School crossings Storm water drainage Street lighting Street sweeping Street tree planting Traffic control devices War memorials

PUBLIC PARTICIPATION Members of the public have a number of opportunities to put forward their views on particular issues before Council. These are:

(i) Deputations/Presentations – with the permission of the Mayor, a member of the public can address council concerning or on behalf of a group of residents, for ten minutes on any issue relevant to Council.

(ii) Petitions – written petitions can be addressed to the Chief

Executive Officer for presentation to Council on any issue within the Council’s jurisdiction.

(iii) Written requests – should be addressed to the Chief Executive Officer

at PO Box 421, Murray Bridge.

(iv) Personal contact – a member of the public can contact their Elected Member of Council to discuss any issue relevant to Council, or members of staff (during office hours).

Community Consultation Documents available for Inspection Other Information Requests

The Rural City of Murray Bridge consults with local residents on particular issues that affect their neighbourhood. (Note – below are examples only)

(1) Reserve Development – local residents may be consulted on the types of facilities and equipment during the design of some reserves.

(2) Residents are notified of some Development Applications requiring the

approval of Council. A number of applications are exempted from public notification by the Development Act. When an application is publicly notified, residents have the opportunity both to write to Council expressing their view on the application and to subse-quently personally address the Council before a decision is made.

ACCESS TO COUNCIL DOCUMENTS The following documents are available for public inspection at the Council Offices free of charge. Members of the public may purchase copies of these documents. Various prices apply and are available on request.

Council Agenda Council Minutes Policy Manual Annual Report Budget Statement Annual Financial Statements Council By-laws Supplementary Development Plans previously on exhibition Development Applications by consent Development Application Register Register of Elected Members – Allowances and Benefits Register of Employees Salaries – Wages and Benefits Assessment Book Register of Public Streets and Roads Register of Fees and Charges levied by Council Register of Community Land

Requests for other information not included above will be considered in accordance with the Freedom of Information provisions of the Local Govern-ment Act. Under this legislation, an application fee must be forwarded with the completed request form unless the applicant is due an exemption. AMENDMENT OF COUNCIL RECORDS A member of the public may gain access to Council documents to make amendments concerning their personal affairs by making a request under the Freedom of Information provision of the Local Government Act. A member of the public may then request a correction to any information about themselves that is incomplete, incorrect, misleading or out of date. To gain access to these Council records, a member of the public must complete a Freedom of Information Request Form and detail the records that he/she wishes to inspect. FREEDOM OF INFORMATION REQUEST Forms are available from the Freedom of Information Officer at the Local Government Centre. A schedule of Freedom of Information (FOI) Fees and Charges is available from the Local Government Centre. Applications will be responded to as soon as possible within the statutory 30 days of Council receiving the properly completed Freedom of Information Request Form, together with the application fees. R.J. Foster CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

THE RURAL CITY OF MURRAY BRIDGE

RATING POLICY STATEMENT

2002/2003

THE RURAL CITY OF MURRAY BRIDGE ADMINISTRATION CENTRE

2 SEVENTH STREET, MURRAY BRIDGE

THE RURAL CITY OF MURAY BRIDGE RATING POLICY July 2002

The Rural City with a Vision

2

THE RURAL CITY OF MURRAY BRIDGE

RATING POLICY STATEMENT - JULY 2002

Based on LGA Model guidelines for developing a Council Rating Policy, May 2000

CONTENTS 1 OBJECTIVES ...........................................................................................................................................3

2 INTRODUCTION........................................................................................................................................3

3 STRATEGIC FOCUS .................................................................................................................................4

4 METHOD USED TO VALUE LAND ............................................................................................................ 5

5 ADOPTION OF VALUATIONS ....................................................................................................................5

6 BUSINESS IMPACT STATEMENT..............................................................................................................5

7 DIFFERENTIAL GENERAL RATES.............................................................................................................6

8 MINIMUM RATE........................................................................................................................................6

9 SEPARATE RATES ..................................................................................................................................7

10 SERVICE RATE AND SERVICE CHARGE..................................................................................................7

11 PAYMENT OF RATES...............................................................................................................................7

12 LATE PAYMENT OF RATES......................................................................................................................8

13 REMISSION AND POSTPONEMENT OF RATES.........................................................................................8

14 REBATE OF RATES .................................................................................................................................8

16 APPLICATION OF POLICY .................................................................................................................. …. 9 17 DISCLAIMER………………………………………………………………………………………............................... 9 15 COUNCIL'S RATING REBATE POLICY…………………………………………………..................... ……………10

18 Appendix 1 - SUMMARY OF LEGAL POSITION RELATING TO THE SETTING AND COLLECTION OF RATES .............................................................................................................................................. 12

22 Appendix 2 - GENERAL VALUATION (February 2002)............................................................................. 14

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OBJECTIVES

The objective of this statement is to act as an informative guide to assist ratepayers to better understand the role of Council in the collection and expenditure of income derived from rates levied within the Council area The objectives of this statement are to:

1. Outline clearly the rates policy position and approach of `` Council

2. Provide information on the rating policies to ratepayers, and

3. Summarise the legal position relating to the setting and collection of rates.

This information is based on the provisions of the Local Government Act 1999, the Local Government Regulations 1999 and the Valuation of Land Act 1971. INTRODUCTION This document sets out the rating policy of the Rural City of Murray Bridge for the setting and collecting of rates from its community. The policy covers:

§ method used to value land § other concessions administered by

Family & Youth Services

§ adoption of valuations § payment of rates

§ business impact statement § late payment of rates

§ Council’s revenue raising powers § sale of land for non-payment of rates

§ differential general rates § remission and postponement of rates

§ minimum rate § rebate of rates

§ separate rates § council’s policy for rate rebates

§ service rates and charges § disclaimer

§ pensioner concessions § legal position regarding rating

§ self funded retiree concessions (State or Commonwealth seniors card)

§ general valuation report

CONTACT DETAILS FOR FURTHER INFORMATION

The Rural City Of Murray Bridge 2 Seventh Street (PO Box 421) Murray Bridge SA 5253 Phone (08) 85391100 Fax (08) 8532 2766 email:rcmb.sa.gov.au

Rates Assessment Officer

Mrs Dot Temby, Phone (08) 85391111 Fax (08) 8532 2766, email: rates@rcmb.sa.gov.au

This Policy is available for inspection at the Council office and persons may obtain a copy of this Policy upon payment of the fee set by the Council.

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STRATEGIC FOCUS (i) In setting its rates for the 2002/2003 financial year the Council has considered the following:

Ø current strategic plan Ø Master Plan Ø 20 year operational plan Ø current economic climate Ø the budget requirements for the 2002/2003 financial year Ø the impact of rates on the community Ø the relationship between Council objectives and rating policy.

In adopting its budget for the 2002/2003 financial year, Council has taken advantage of a number of capital grants knowing that they may not be available in following years. These grants generally require matching funding and are identified in the Master Plan or Strategic Plan. Works include completion of Sturt Reserve, Wharf Stage 3, Sturt Reserve Wetlands, major stormwater programs, further works on the Regional Art gallery and the undergrounding of power for some of Adelaide Rd (PLEC) project. In addition, Council this year will continue to support community and major events projects as well as general tourism related activities. Community events include the Murray Bridge Show, Christmas Parade, and Australia Day Celebrations. Councils current mission statement, being “The Rural City with a Vision” states in broad terms that: The Rural City of Murray Bridge will be a key and vibrant South Australian regional centre that cares for people, both residents and visitors, and offers to them a quality and friendly lifestyle that balances their economic, social and environmental needs. This can be achieved through the creation of a council which is responsive to community needs, actively pursues sustainable economic development, delivers accessible and relevant community services, maintains and enhances the regions natural and built assets, delivers services to the community in a professional, innovative, sustainable and competitive manner, and provision of administrative services to meet industry and statutory requirements. Incentives and support for businesses and community groups continues to be an important feature for Council as it continues to foster growth and development in the community. Council regularly conducts public consultation on a broad range of issues relating to the future direction of the Rural City of Murray Bridge area. These opportunities are always advertised in local papers. Ratepayers and other interested parties are welcome to attend. Council meetings provide the opportunity for members of the public to put forward their views on particular issues before Council. These are: Deputations/Presentations, Petitions, Written requests and personal contact. The strategic management plans and the Council’s budget are available for inspection at the Council office. The Council also encourages feedback at anytime and such comments may be sent to:

Mr Rob Foster Chief Executive Officer The Rural City Of Murray Bridge Box 421 MURRAY BRIDGE SA 5253 email: council@rcmb.sa.gov.au

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ANNUAL ADOPTION OF THE RATING POLICY Section 171 of the Local Government Act 1999 requires a Council to prepare and adopt each year, in conjunction with setting the rates, a rating policy. A copy of this policy must be available at the principal office of the Council and a summary version must be distributed with the rates notice. METHOD USED TO VALUE LAND The Rural City of Murray Bridge has decided to continue to use capital value as provided by the Office of the Valuer General as the basis for valuing land within the council area. The Council considers that this method of valuing land provides the fairest method of distributing the rate burden across all ratepayers on the following basis: Ø property value is a relatively good indicator of wealth and capital value, which closely approximates the

market value of a property and provides the best indicator of overall property value; Ø the distribution of property values throughout the Council area is such that few residential ratepayers will

pay significantly more than the average rate per property; Ø the equity principle of taxation requires that ratepayers of similar wealth pay similar taxes and

ratepayers of greater wealth pay more tax than ratepayers of lesser wealth; Ø the nature of landholdings in the municipality; Ø the mix of land use within the municipality.

1.2 ADOPTION OF VALUATIONS The Council has adopted the total capital valuation of $948,690,060 as gazetted by the Valuer-General May 23rd 2002 and provided to Council as at 30th June, 2002, as is permitted to do under the Local Government Act 1999 . If a ratepayer is dissatisfied with the valuation made by the Valuer-General then the ratepayer may object to the Valuer-General in writing, within 60 days of receiving the notice of the valuation, explaining the basis for the objection, provided they have not:

(a) previously received a notice of this valuation under the Local Government Act 1999, in which case the objection period is 60 days from the receipt of the first notice; or

(b) previously had an objection to the valuation considered by the Valuer-General.

The address of the Office of the Valuer-General is: Office of the Valuer-General GPO Box 1354 ADELAIDE SA 5001 email: objections@saugov.sa.gov.au Telephone 1300 653 345.

Please note that this objection process is in accordance with the Valuation of Land Act 1971 and the Council has no role in this process. It is also important to note that the lodgement of an objection does not change the due date for the payment of rates. NOTIONAL VALUES Certain properties may be eligible for a notional value under the Valuation of Land Act 1971.. A notional value is generally less than the capital value and this will result in reduced rates, unless the minimum rate already applies. Application for a notional value must be made to the Office of the Valuer-General. State heritage properties may also benefit in some circumstances BUSINESS IMPACT STATEMENT The Council has considered the impact of rates on all businesses in the Council area, including primary production. In doing so it considered a range of factors from the level of support it provides to new and emerging business, the level of employment and increasing opportunities within the district, natural and potential growth of business and Councils active planning to create a vibrant centre for the region.

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q Rates for the residential and primary production classifications have a reduced rate in the dollar, whereas, for example, vacant land is rated more highly in an effort to encourage further development within the area.

q Council believes that the current focus, planning and assistance is either directly or indirectly beneficial

to business. Planning for improved transport networks, industrial land and newly approved Town centre strategy are all key outcomes that support business growth and development..

q Council projects and specific maintenance issues for the coming year that will principally or solely

benefit businesses and primary producers eg, reconstruction of Flagstaff Rd intersection. COUNCIL’S REVENUE RAISING POWERS All land within a Council area, except for land specifically exempt (e.g. crown land, Council occupied land and other land prescribed under Section 147 of the Local Government Act 1999), is rateable. The Local Government Act provides for a Council to raise revenue for the broad purposes of the Council through a general rate, which applies to all rateable properties, or through differential general rates, which apply to classes of properties. In addition, Council can raise separate rates, for specific parts of the Council area or raise service rates and/or charges for certain prescribed services. (eg garbage), However, from December 2001 Council will publicly consult with its ratepayers for any proposed separate and service rates and charges. The Council also raises revenue through fees and charges, which are set giving consideration to the cost of the service provided and any equity issues. The list of applicable fees and charges is available at the contact locations listed on Page 1. DIFFERENTIAL GENERAL RATES The Council has decided to impose differential general rates based on the use and locality of the land. Definitions of the use of the land are prescribed by regulation and Council has determined its differential rates based on those regulations. At its meeting on 22nd July 2002, Council decided to raise differential rate revenue of $7,604,000, excluding the separate and service rates and charges, in a total revenue budget of $21,844,400. As a result of this decision the Council has set the following differential general rates to raise the necessary revenue. Listed below are the differentiating factors, as prescribed the Local Government Act and the Rate Levy (cents per $ of Capital Valuation) as well as the expected revenue to be raised by each differential rate.

DIFFERENTIATING FACTOR/ LAND USE

RATE/ $C.V.

EXPECTED REVENUE

$ 1. Residential 0.7850c $4,261.000 2. Commercial (Shop, Office, Other) 1.3590c $1,273,000 3. Industrial (Light & Other) 1.1520c $ 374,000 4. Primary Production 0.6190c $1,382,000 5. Vacant Land 1.0310c $ 237,000 6. Other 0.7850c $ 77,000 Total Expected Revenue $7,604,000

If a ratepayer believes that a particular land use has been wrongly classified to a particular property, then they may object to that land use, to the Council., in writing within 60 days of receipt of the first rates notice which lists the land use allocated to that property to the Rates Assessment Officer as listed in the contact details. Objections to the Council’s decision may be lodged with Mr Rob Foster, Chief Executive Officer, The Rural City of Murray Bridge, PO Box 421, Murray Bridge SA 5253. The objection must be made within 60 days of receiving notice of the land use and set out the basis for the objection and details of the land use that (in the opinion of the ratepayer) should be attributed to that property. The Council may then decide the objection as it sees fit and notify the ratepayer. A ratepayer also has the right to appeal against the Council’s decision to the Land and Valuation Court.

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IT IS IMPORTANT TO NOTE THAT THE LODGEMENT OF AN OBJECTION DOES NOT CHANGE THE DUE DATE FOR PAYMENT OF RATES.

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MINIMUM RATE Where a Council imposes a minimum rate (provided that it has not imposed a fixed charge), it must not apply the minimum rate to more than 35% of properties in the Council area. For the 2002-2003 financial year, The Council has decided to impose a minimum rate of $460.00, which will apply to 2643 assessments and which equates to 29.0% of rateable properties. Where two or more adjoining properties have the same owner and are occupied by the same occupier, only one minimum rate is payable by the ratepayer The reasons for imposing a minimum rate are Ø the Council considers it appropriate that all rateable properties make a base level contribution to the cost of

administering the Council’s activities; and to Ø the cost of creating and maintaining the physical infrastructure that supports each property. SEPARATE RATES – Town Centre including Central Business Area (CBA

Council has undertaken to provide for the development and beautification of the Town Centre which includes Central Business Area. This beautification will continue to provide benefits for all ratepayers within this area.

For the 2002/2003 financial year, Council has decided to raise $80,000 by way of a separate rate to undertake this project. The Council has declared a separate rate of 0.1873 cents in $ of the Capital Value of the commercial land within the defined area. As prescribed by the Local Government Act the revenue raised from this separate rate can only be applied to maintain this project within the Town Centre and CBA.

SERVICE RATE & SERVICE CHARGE The Council provides a “prescribed service” to all properties in the Riverglen Marina and Woodlane areas of the district, and as provided for in Section 155 of the Local Government Act 1999, the cost of providing this service is recoverable from assessments within these defined areas. This service provides for the provision of water supply and septic tank effluent disposal. The full cost of operating and maintaining these services for 2002-2003 financial year is budgeted to be $50000 for the Riverglen Marina area and $17000 for the Woodlane Area. Council will recover these costs through the imposition of a service charge of $450 per rateable property and a service rate of $0.1642 cents in the dollar for each rateable property within the defined Riverglen area, and through a service charge of $150.00 per rateable property and a service rate of $0.3193 cents in the dollar for each rateable property within the defined Woodlane area, to which these services are available. [Where the service is provided on non-rateable property, a service charge of $450.00 is levied against the land within the Riverglen area and $150.00 within the Woodlane area]. As prescribed by the Local Government Act, the revenue raised by these service rates and charges can only be applied to maintaining the services for Riverglen Marina and Woodlane areas.

Council will continue to provide a ”prescribed service” for a single fee of $50.00 as provided for in Section 155 of the Local Government Act 1999, to all new residential properties that would be provided with a garbage collection receptacle PAYMENT OF RATES The Council has decided that the payment of rates will be as follows: 1. By four equal instalments, due on the 16th September 2002, 16th December 2002,

17th March 2003 and 16th June 2003. Notices regarding these instalment payments will be forwarded to the principal ratepayer at least 30 days but not more than 60 days before the instalment falls due. The Rural City of Murray Bridge is offering a discount of 1% for the payment of all rates (in full) by 30th August, 2002. Rates may be paid:

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Ø At any Post Office Ø By telephone, using a debit or credit card, ring 08 8539 1199: Ø In person, at the Council office location listed on Page 1, during the hours of 8.00am to 5.00pm, Monday to

Friday. EFTPOS facilities are available for payments. – Please note: Minimum transaction for EFTPOS is $20.00

Ø Pay your rates online by accessing Council’s website: www.rcmb.sa.gov.au and using the BIZGATE facilities as per the instructions on site

Ø Any ratepayer who may, or is likely to, experience difficulty with meeting the standard payment arrangements is invited to contact Mrs Dot Temby, Rates Assessment Officer, on 08 8391 1111 or e-mail d.temby@rcmb.sa.gov.au to discuss alternative payment arrangements. Such enquiries are treated in confidence by Council. The Council has adopted a policy that where the payment of rates will cause a ratepayer hardship, Council is prepared to make available extended payment arrangements according to the ratepayers financial circumstances.. LATE PAYMENT OF RATES The Local Government Act provides that Councils impose a penalty of a 2% fine is payable on any overdue liability for rates, whether payable by instalment or otherwise. A payment that continues to be late is then charged a prescribed percentage of the amount in arrears on the expiration of each month that it continues to be late. The purpose of this penalty is to act as a genuine deterrent to ratepayers who might otherwise fail to pay their rates on time, to allow Councils to recover the administrative cost of following up unpaid rates and to cover any interest cost the Council may meet because it has not received the rates on time. For the 2002/2003 financial year, interest will be charged at the prescribed percentage of 0.73% of the amount in arrears, per month. The Council is prepared to remit penalties for late payment of rates where ratepayers can demonstrate hardship. Council will issue a final notice for payment of rates when rates are overdue i.e. unpaid by the due date. Should rates remain unpaid and in arrears for more than 21 days after the issue of the fourth final notice then the Council refers the debt to a debt collection agency for collection. The debt collection agency charges collection fees that are recoverable from the ratepayer. When the Council receives a payment in respect of overdue rates the Council applies the money received as follows: Ø first – to satisfy any costs awarded in connection with court proceedings; Ø second – to satisfy any interest costs; Ø third – in payment of any fines imposed; Ø fourth – in payment of rates, in chronological order (starting with the oldest account first).

The Council imposes late payment penalties strictly in accordance with the Local Government Act 1999. Note: A Council has the power to remit penalties in whole or in part. REMISSION AND POSTPONEMENT OF RATES Section 182 of the Local Government Act permits the Council, on the application of a ratepayer, to partially or wholly remit rates or to postpone rates, on the basis of hardship. Where a ratepayer is suffering hardship in paying rates he/she is invited to contact Mrs Dot Temby, Rates Officer, on 08 85391111 or e-mail d.temby@rcmb.sa.gov.au to discuss the matter. Such enquiries are treated in confidence by the Council. If the Council is satisfied that payment will cause hardship, the Council will, in the circumstance, make appropriate arrangements with the ratepayer, REBATE OF RATES The Local Government Act 1999 requires Councils to rebate the rates payable on some land and gives Council discretion to rebate rates in respect of Chapter 10 Division 5 (Sections 159 to 166) for land used for certain purposes and will be available only when the applicant satisfies the requirements of the Local Government Act. Specific provisions are made for land used for health services, community services, religious purposes, public

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cemeteries, the Royal Zoological Society and educational institutions. For further information regarding rebates that may be available to various community groups or organisations please contact the local council office. APPLICATION OF THE POLICY Where a ratepayer believes that the Council has failed to properly apply this policy it should raise the matter with the Council. In the first instance contact Mrs Dot Temby, Rates Assessment Officer on 08 85391111 to discuss the matter. If, after this initial contact, a ratepayer is still dissatisfied they should write to Mr Rob Foster, Chief Executive Officer, The Rural City of Murray Bridge, PO Box 421, Murray Bridge SA 5253. The disclaimer below should be noted.

DISCLAIMER A rate cannot be challenged on the basis of non-compliance with this policy and the rate must be paid in

accordance with the required payment provisions.

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§ SPORTING CLUBS, HALLS AND RELATED GROUPS RATING REBATE POLICY Amended & Carried at Full Council Meeting Held 21/1/2002 Effective from 2002/2003 Financial year

The principles for the development of that Rating Rebate policy are as follows: 1. The policy relates to those properties only where rates are legally levied, regardless of the

tenure of the property (i.e. whether privately or publicly owned). 2. All ratepayers affected shall pay their own:

• electricity charges • water rates • sewerage rates

i.e. such charges that are not subsidised by Council.

3. All organisations that are solely constituted to provide charity or cultural services to the community should not pay council rates.

4. All private schools should receive a 100% rebate of rates. 5. All organisations whose sole purpose is to provide a service to the handicapped or disabled

should not pay council rates. 6. All conservation areas, heritage and national trust building that grant unrestricted access to

the public should receive a 100% rebate of rates. 7. Clubrooms on council land that provide meeting places but do not carry out any business to

raise funds through the sale of liquor etc (e.g. Croquet Club, Netball Clubs, Johnstone Park Combined Clubrooms) should receive a 100% rebate of rates.

8. Clubrooms on council land that have been built for members of recreation clubs etc, that

undertake some form of trading to generate income, and provide some community benefits should receive a 50% rebate of rates.

9. Clubrooms on private land that have been built for members of recreation clubs etc and

provide some community benefits should receive a 25% rebate of rates. 10. Clubrooms that gain revenue from poker machines should not receive any rebate of rates. 11. Retirement villages to receive 10% rebate of rates where they do not claim pensioner

concessions for residents in individual units. 12. Review legislation to ensure rate rebates have been granted under law.

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Appendix 1 - Summary of Legal Position Relating to the Setting and Collection of Rates LOCAL GOVERNMENT ACT 1999 A Council may impose general rates, separate rates, service rates and service charges on land in its area (Section 146). Generally, all land within a Council area is rateable unless specifically exempted by Section 147 of the Act. Such exemptions include crown land, churches, cemeteries, land used for public educational purposes and Council occupied land. A Council must adopt a rating policy each year setting out broad policy framework within which the Council rates its area (Section 171). A summary of the policy must accompany the rates notice. A rate is to be based on the value of the land multiplied by a 'rate in the dollar' set each year by Council. The basis of valuation is to be capital value, site value or annual value (Section 151). Land must be valued by either the Valuer-General or a valuer engaged by or employed by the Council (Section 167). Objections may be lodged against a valuation made by a valuer engaged or employed by the Council (Section 169) or by the Valuer-General (Valuation of Land Act). Differential general rates can be declared for land according to the location or the specific use (e.g. residential) of the land. As part of the general rate a fixed charge may apply which means that the same amount is payable irrespective of the value, use or location of the property. The fixed charge may only be imposed against the whole of an allotment and only one fixed charge may be imposed against two or more pieces of contiguous land owned by the same owner and occupied by the same occupier or a single farm enterprise (Sections 148 and 152). A Council may fix a minimum amount payable by way of rates or it may alter the amount to be paid by properties within a specific range of values, but may not do so if it has imposed a fixed charge. The minimum rate may only be imposed against the whole of an allotment (which can include land under a separate lease or licence) and only one minimum rate is payable by two or more pieces of contiguous land owned by the same owner and occupied by the same occupier. The minimum rate must not be applied to supported accommodation or independent living units within the same group or complex of units. The minimum rate and altered rates must not apply to more than 35% of the properties in a Council area. (Section 158). A Council may declare either a general rate or differential general rates based on the use of the land, the locality of the land, the locality and the use of the land or (where particular circumstances apply) some other basis determined by the Council (Sections 153 & 156). A Council may declare a separate rate (or differential separate rates) on rateable land where a specific project is being undertaken to benefit the land or the occupiers of the land, which can be only a portion of the land in a Council area (Section 154). A Council may impose service rates and charges against land for any prescribed service it provides or makes available to the land. A service charge is also payable in relation to non-rateable land. Prescribed services are water supply and the collection, treatment or disposal of waste (Section 155). Rates are a charge against the land (Section 177). The owner of the land (unless the Council is advised otherwise) is the principal ratepayer and rates may be recovered as a debt against the principal ratepayer. In certain cases the occupier of the land may be classed as the principal ratepayer. From the financial year 2001/2002 a Council must offer all ratepayers the opportunity to pay rates in four quarterly instalments. A Council may also make arrangements with ratepayers for other instalment provisions to apply (Section 181). If an instalment of rates is not paid by the due date then the Act provides for a Council to impose a fine of 2% on the unpaid instalment and, if the instalment continues to be unpaid, to charge a prescribed interest rate (set each year by a formula in the Act) on the unpaid instalment, on a monthly basis. The Council may remit such penalties in whole or in part (Section 181). Where rates become unpaid for a period of more than three years a Council may sell the land to recover the unpaid rates (Section 184). A Council may remit or postpone the payment of rates, on the application of the ratepayer, if the payment of the rates would impose hardship on the ratepayer (Section 182).

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A Council must rebate the payment of rates for land used for various purposes - health services, community services, religious purposes, public cemeteries, the Royal Zoological Society, educational institutions - as provided in Sections 159 to 165 of the Act. A Council may also provide discretionary rebates on the payment of rates (up to 100% of the rate for a period of up to ten years) on land used for a range of purposes, including for the securing the proper development of the land; for the preservation of buildings or places of historic interest; for the provision of facilities or services for children or young persons and for the provision of accommodation for the aged or disabled (Section 166). Note: The Local Government Act 1999 is available for inspection, free of charge at the Rural City of Murray Bridge Administration Office, 2 Seventh Street, Murray Bridge SA 5253, or at the Rural City of Murray Bridge Public Library, Level 3, Mobilong House, Seventh Street, Murray Bridge SA 5253. VALUATION OF LAND ACT Under Section 22A there are various qualifications laid down in relation to the provision of a 'notional value' for various properties. For example, where land is used for primary production and its value is enhanced by its potential for subdivision a valuing authority may value the land at its 'notional value', that is, as if the potential for subdivision did not exist. Where land forms part of the State heritage it may also be valued disregarding any potential for other use (Section 22B). Any owner that believes that they are entitled to a 'notional value' must apply in writing to the Office of the Valuer General. A person may object to a valuation of the Valuer General by notice in writing, setting out the reasons for the objections, and the Valuer General must consider the objection. If the person then remains dissatisfied with the valuation, the person has a right to a review. Applications must be made within 21 days of receipt of the notice of the decision (in relation to the objection) from the Valuer General. A payment of the prescribed fee for the review to be undertaken together with the review application must be lodged in the Office of the Valuer General, who will then refer the matter to an independent Valuer. If the person remains dissatisfied with the valuation then they have a right of appeal to the Land and Valuation Court (Section 24, 25A, 25B & 25C).

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2. APPENDIX 2 - GENERAL VALUATION (FEBRUARY 2002)

2.1 OVERVIEW

The General Valuation of Murray Bridge was completed in February, 2002. The Capital Value of the assessment has increased over the previous year by $42,567,480 (4.85%) to $918,926,660 ($948690060 as at 30th June 2002). The increase has principally applied to the residential market with some increases also applying to rural properties. The number of properties recorded as being transferred in 2001 totalled 636, compared with 627 for 2000, 465 for 1999 and 459 for 1998 . In 2001 a total of 96 vacant land transfers were recorded compared with100 in 2000, 96 in 1999 and 79 in 1998.

2.2 Residential

The market for residential properties has shown an increase overall, with some sectors of the market moving more than others. The main growth areas have been the larger character homes in the inner older areas of Murray Bridge, homes located with views and/or access to the river, and modern conventional style homes. The general increases applied in the 2002 General Valuation to such properties have been 8% to 10%. The market for pre 1980’s homes has in general shown a lower level of growth an other sectors. The general increases applied in the 2002 General Valuation to such properties have been 4% to 5%. The market for homes located within primarily Housing Trust areas has shown no significant increase. There has been no increase applied to such properties in the 2002 General Valuation. An important component of the valuation program has been the riverfront holiday homes which have shown significant market increases. The general increases applied have been in the order of 30$, with variations on this figure dependent on location and individual property characteristics. The valuations on these properties will be principally completed as part of the revisit program by the end of May 2002. There have been minor increases to vacant land values in the south-western area of Murray Bridge and Murray Bridge East as well as other residential locations outside of the city.

2.3 Commercial/Industrial

The commercial and industrial market has continued to be static with no significant sales evidence to warrant across the board changes in value. However, adjustments will be required to the values and tenancies on a number of assessments and these will be completed as part of the revisit program..

2.4 Rural Living and Rural Residential

The market has shown some significant lifts in rural living values. Minor across the board increases have applied to improved properties as part of the General Valuation. However, we are in the process of an inspection program for rural living properties and a number of adjustments will be advised prior to the end of this financial year.

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2.5 Rural

Sales evidence has shown rising values in this sector. With the exception of the Broomrape area, increase of the order of 10% have been applied to arable land values in the General Valuation.

2.6 Revisits

It is important to note that a considerable number of revisits are pending. These revisits relate principally to new houses and other new improvements to properties over the past year. Information provided by Wayne Forbes Regional Valuer On behalf of Neil Bray Valuer General Land Services Group Department for Administrative & Information Services Level 2, Mobilong House Murray Bridge SA 5253