1. art and entertainment
2. shows and events
3. festival

Wangaratta Rural City Council – Ordinary Meeting
21 February 2012
ATTACHMENT
COUNCILLORS PORTFOLIOS AND ASSOCIATED
COMMITTEES
Refer Item 11.2.1.2
Councillor Portfolios - February 2012
Portfolio
Focus
Mayoral
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Governance
Municipal Association of Victoria
(MAV)
Regional Cities Victoria
Major Projects
Communication
Community Leadership
Friendship Relations with other
Districts/Cities
Climate change
Water security and supply
River Health
Waste Management
Environment Protection
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Jobs
Growth
Economic Activity/production
Industry Support
Tourism Events & Festivals
Visitation (VIC’s)
Agribusiness & Agritourism
Libraries
Art Centres/Galleries
Performing Arts
Community Events & Festivals
Multiculturalism
History & Museums
Heritage & Cemeteries
•
•
•
•
•
Environmental
Sustainability
Economic
Development
and Tourism
Arts, Culture
and Heritage
Advisory and Section 86
Committees
• Audit Advisory Committee
• Wangaratta Unlimited Board
(Advisory Committee)
Associated Committees
•
•
•
North East Local Government Network
Regional Cities Victoria
Municipal Association of Victoria
•
North East Victoria Regional Waste
Management Authority (NevRwaste)
North East Greenhouse Alliance
MAV Strategic Environment Advisory
Group
Wangaratta Community Pride Committee
Victoria Livestock Saleyards Association
Wangaratta Festival of Jazz
•
•
•
•
•
•
Agriculture and Agribusiness
Advisory Committee
Wangaratta Unlimited Board
Arts, Culture and Heritage
Advisory Committee
Friends of Lacluta Special
Committee
•
•
•
•
•
•
North East Multicultural Association
(NEMA)
The Standing Committee on Local
Government and Cultural Diversity
High Country Library Corporation
Portfolio
Focus
Sport and
Recreation
•
•
•
Community
Wellbeing
Infrastructure
and Planning
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Recreational Cycling
Passive Recreation (Parks &
Gardens, Walking paths
Active Recreation (grounds &
reserves)
Playgrounds
Aquatics
Equestrian
Clubs & leisure pursuits
Health
Education
Youth
Volunteerism
Aged Care
Child Care
Social Inclusion
Law, Order & Public Safety
Drought
Transport and logistics
Infrastructure renewal
Telecommunications
Land Use Planning
Affordable housing
Population
Planning
Community Facilities
Advisory and Section 86
Associated Committees
Committees
• Sport and Recreation Advisory
Committee
• Murray to the Mountains Rail
Trail Committee of Management
•
Youth Council Advisory
Committee
•
•
•
•
•
•
Place Naming Committee
Audit Advisory Committee
(immediate past Mayor)
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Municipal Emergency Management
Planning Committee
Municipal Fire Prevention Committee
Region 23 Fire Prevention Committee
Liquor Accord Forum
Traffic Liaison Group
Timber Towns Victoria
North East Community Road Safety
Council
Drought Response Sub-Committee
Victorian Murray Darling Basin Plan
Community Advisory committee
MAV Planning Advisory committee a
MAV Planning Forum
DSE Ovens Catchment Public Roundtable
Wangaratta Rural City Council – Ordinary Meeting
21 February 2012
ATTACHMENT
FULL SUBMISSION – PROPOSED MURRAY DARLING
BASIN PLAN
Refer Item 11.2.1.3
PROPOSED MURRAY DARLING BASIN PLAN
SUBMISSION BY THE RURAL CITY OF WANGARATTA
Overview
1.
The Rural City of Wangaratta is one of seven councils that comprise the North East
Victorian catchment of the Murray Darling Basin. It includes the Ovens system and is
vitally interested in its future.
2.
We support the proposed Basin Plan outcomes as far as they are known. The unknown
is the proposed review of the Basin Plan in 2015.
3.
The current proposals support the Rural City of Wangaratta’s attempt to:
• provide security of water supply for agriculture;
• expand the Alpine Valleys Agri-Food concept;
• provide for efficient use of water closest to its source; and
• protect the natural flow and heritage status of the Ovens River.
4.
Importantly, the proposed Basin Plan corrects the perverse outcomes for the Oven
system as identified and acknowledged with the original Basin Plan.
5.
We acknowledge and support the adaptive management approach rather than a strict
water volume target being taken in the proposed Plan for meeting the Murray’s
sustainable needs. We believe this fits with the Windsor Enquiry recommendations and
the Rural City of Wangaratta’s view previously expressed that there may be alternative
ways to achieve environmental flows for the Murray from the Ovens catchment based
on water management rather water volume.
6.
While we support the 2015 review in order to give meaning to the adaptive
management approach, it does leave an unknown which conditions our support to what
is known or intended now.
Page 1 of 10
Introduction
The proposed Murray Darling Basin Plan recently released reveals that the Ovens system
will not be adversely affected by measures to improve sustainable water flows in the
Murray River. With submissions now being called, the Rural City of Wangaratta is taking this
opportunity to reinforce the arguments that have led to this positive outcome.
About Us
Located in North East Victoria, the Rural City of Wangaratta encompasses the valleys of the
lower Ovens and the King River. In 2010, the municipality had an estimated population of
28,900 residents, and with continuing growth in industrial, retail and tourism sectors, is one
of Victoria’s most progressive provincial centres.
Wangaratta is the principal urban centre at the confluence of the Ovens and King rivers. It is
a leading regional city providing a range of education, health, recreation and welfare
services for all ages. It is the regional headquarters for several government agencies and its
diverse industry provides a range of employment. Other townships and villages in the
municipality include Everton, Glenrowan, Oxley, Milawa, Moyhu, Peechelba, Springhurst,
Whitfield, Whorouly and Eldorado.
The Rural City of Wangaratta’s scenic location, its gourmet food and wine and heritage
areas make it a popular tourism destination.
By virtue of its location, the Rural City of Wangaratta contains some of the richest
agricultural land in the country, a highly secure source of water supply and population
growth of 1.5% - 2.0% per annum.
The Rural City of Wangaratta is one of seven councils that comprise the North East Victorian
catchment to the Murray Darling Basin. The table below shows their catchment connection.
Council
Catchment
• City of Wodonga
• Shire of Indigo
• Shire of Towong
Upper Murray, Mitta, Kiewa
• Rural City of Wangaratta
• Alpine Shire
Ovens, Kiewa
• Benalla Rural City
• Mansfield Shire
Broken, Upper Goulburn
Page 2 of 10
Background
The original Murray Darling Basin Guide released in October 2010 determined that current
diversions would have to be reduced by 3000 to 4000 gigalitres per year to provide for
sustainable diversion limits (SDLs) and meet the health needs of the Murray River. For the
Ovens system this was identified as a reduction in diversions of 40 to 45% to achieve the
required SDLs.
The formula for imposing reductions meant that the cut to the Ovens system would come
from the modest amount of water used for irrigation, resulting in an effective reduction of
70% to irrigation. The table below gives a snapshot of how the guide would have affected
the Ovens system.
GL
%
Total Inflows
1,804
100
Total Outflows
1,708
95
Retained
96
5
Interceptors
58
3
Environmental Flows
13
0.7
Diversions
25
1.3
Township Supplies, etc
11
0.6
Irrigation
14
0.7
Proposed MDBG Take (off irrigation)
10
Retained for Irrigation
4
0.2
The Rural City of Wangaratta formed an alliance with six other Upper North East Victorian
Councils to argue that the proposals as they affected the upper north east catchments
provided perverse outcomes and would destroy irrigation closest to the water source. The
Ovens system was used as the case study.
The Rural City of Wangaratta challenged the science associated with the perverse outcomes
for the Ovens catchment contained in the guide. In doing so we argued that the relatively
minute amount of water gained for the Murray River by these moves was completely
outweighed by the adverse impacts it would have on this catchment. These included socio
economic impacts on jobs, flow on effects on the wider economy, community health and
wellbeing, value of land use and protection of agriculture.
Page 3 of 10
We suggested that there may be alternative ways to achieve environmental outcomes for
the Murray River from North East Victoria catchments based on improving water
management rather than increasing water volume.
The proposed Basin Plan establishes baseline diversion limits (BDLs) which are the
benchmark based on current levels of take against which reductions are made to achieve
the sustainable diversion limits (SDLs). The proposed Basin Plan looks at available water in
the Murray Darling Basin in two parts; surface water and ground water.
The proposed Basin Plan provides for the following:
• A reduction of 2,750 gigalitres per year from the BDLs to achieve environmentally
sustainable levels of water use;
•
No reduction to the BDLs relating to the Ovens system for surface water to achieve the
required SDLs;
•
An increase in SDLs for ground water in respect to the Ovens system by 2 gigalitres per
year; and
•
No change for surface extractions for both the Kiewa and Broken systems.
Based on these proposals, the arguments put forward by the Rural City of Wangaratta in
respect to the Ovens system have been positively responded to by the Murray Darling Basin
Authority (MDBA). Indeed in its explanatory notes it reports that:
“The communities of the Ovens and Kiewa Rivers have healthy and diverse economies,
supported by tourism, retail and agriculture. The 2008 Sustainable Rivers Audit found both
the Ovens and Kiewa had near natural flows… given the low levels the authority is proposing
that no water needs to be recovered to meet local environmental needs”.
The proposed Basin Plan therefore corrects the perverse outcomes for the Ovens system as
identified and acknowledged with the original Basin Guide.
Rural City of Wangaratta Position
The Rural City of Wangaratta supports the proposed Basin Plan outcomes as far as they are
known. The unknown is the proposed review of the Basin Plan in 2015 “at which point the
SDLs can be re-examined in the light of works and measures, changes to river management
and advances in scientific knowledge”.
Page 4 of 10
The current proposals support the Rural City of Wangaratta’s attempts to:
•
Provide security of water supply for agriculture;
•
Expand the Alpine Valleys Agri-Food concept;
•
Provide for the efficient use of water closest to its source; and
•
Protect the natural flow and heritage status of the Ovens River.
The final outcome of the MDBA Plan has serious implications for the Ovens system and for
those who depend on it and use it. The case for no change as now proposed is worth
reiterating.
North East Victorian Catchment Perspective
The North East Victorian catchments bring a different perspective to that of broader
irrigation districts. While not questioning the value of these other areas, the North East
Victorian catchments are about maximising the use of fertile river valleys and flood plains
where water can be used closest to its source.
A diverse range of agricultural products are currently supported including viticulture,
horticulture, dairying, beef, lamb and crop production. It is a nationally renowned food and
wine centre for these reasons.
The value of agriculture in North East Victoria in 2008/2009 was estimated at $360–
380 million.
Our circumstances are unique and our needs are different. The case common to all North
East Victorian catchments can be summarised as follows:
1.
Regional planning for the Hume Region, adopted by the Victorian State Government,
provide for:
• water being used at its most efficient;
• a move toward more intensive and varied agriculture, underpinned by a secure
water supply; and
• a sustainable environment built around healthy rivers
2.
Efficiency of using water closest to the source
3.
Benefits of sustainable water use in a drying climate
4.
Importance of agriculture to the regional economy and for food production
Page 5 of 10
The Regional Plan for the Hume Region, known as the Hume Strategy, contains specific
measures in support of the above:
Continue to support the protected status of the Ovens River System, having regard to
the unregulated nature of the system; its heritage status; and sustainable use of water
closest to the source.
Develop key opportunities for sustainable use of water at the source through Alpine
Agribusiness projects.
Develop the Alpine Valleys Agrifood Project as a means of supporting sustainable
agriculture.
Working in partnership to support agribusiness development, transition, diversification
and change including value adding of primary products, food processing, niche markets,
uptake of farm technology, business skill development and alternative crops.
In terms of the Ovens Catchment, it has natural environmental advantages that ensure
irrigation will be more effective than most catchments:
•
High elevation with cooler temperatures reduces evaporation
•
Higher natural rainfall
A background paper prepared for The Basin Plan demonstrates this advantage. Marsden
Jacob Associates in “Ovens community profile” drew on ABS data (2005-06) to compare the
agricultural performance of the Ovens region with the Murray Darling Basin overall. Figure 5
from the MJA profile shows an outstanding performance for grape production in the Ovens
region. The Ovens grow value of agricultural production (GVAP) for grapes is approximately
three times more per ML of applied irrigation water. Irrigation for dairy in the Ovens region
also is clearly more effective than the MDB generally. The Ovens region can deliver
sustainable use of irrigation water.
Page 6 of 10
The sustainability advantages for water use in the Ovens Catchment will offer an
opportunity for adaptation as the climate becomes drier. Agricultural businesses are already
seeking to relocate to the region to take advantage of this, particularly in the dairy and
horticulture industries. This geographic movement is an adaptation option that will buffer
the Victorian agricultural economy as the climate dries. If water supply in the Ovens
catchment is decreased, effective and efficient adaptation options will be compromised.
The importance of agriculture to the economy of the Rural City of Wangaratta Catchment
Councils cannot be overstated. Based on current ABS data, 1,034 people or 9.09% of the
population are employed in agriculture. It is also noted that manufacturing is a major
employer and economic driver of the region and the majority of manufacturers are
strategically located so as to add value to primary production. Drawing again on ABS data,
manufacturing within the Rural City of Wangaratta employs 1,644 people or 14.45% of the
workforce.
Irrigated agriculture in the Ovens region has developed in the areas that take advantage of
sustainable irrigated water use – dairy, fruit and nuts and grapes as shown in figure 4 from
the Ovens community profile.
The strength of the agricultural industry in the Ovens region is shown by the comment by
Marsden Jacob “the Agriculture, Forestry and Fishing industry was the fourth largest
employer, but, unusually for the Basin, grew between 2001 and 2006 (by 2.9% to 2091
persons employed).”
Page 7 of 10
These irrigated agriculture sectors in the Ovens region make a key contribution to the local
economy. The following figures from the Marsden Jacob’s economic and social analysis
(“Economic and social profiles and impacts for MDB Plan”, 2010) show that the perennial
horticulture – fruit and nuts and grapes – and dairy have intensive expenditure in the local
area. A local study shows that the dairy industry in the region generates $2.5 in the local
economy for every $1 at the farm gate. Perennial horticulture is an intensive employer.
Page 8 of 10
The intensive contribution means the local economy will be severely impacted by reduced
diversion volumes. As these sectors are already highly efficient water users, efficiency
measures to adapt to reduced water are not an option.
In its narrative, the Hume Strategy states that:
“Agriculture is one of the main economic contributors in the Hume Region. Agricultural land
is a limited resource that should be protected against inappropriate development.”
Already, there is a significant demand for rural lifestyle land in the rich valleys of the Ovens
Catchment. If irrigation is lost the pressure to turn high yield, agricultural land over to this
type of development will be overwhelming and completely at odds with the Strategy.
Management Over Volume
The Rural City of Wangaratta acknowledges and supports the adaptive management
approach rather than a strict water volume target being taken in the proposed Plan for
meeting the Murray’s sustainable needs. In our previous submission to the Guide, the Rural
City of Wangaratta suggested that there may be alternative ways to achieve environmental
flows for the Murray from the Ovens catchment based on water management rather than
water volume. In other words, timing and delivery methods provide more environmental
impact for the Murray than just sheer volume.
The adaptive management approach, through learning by doing, fits with this view. It
acknowledges the Windsor Inquiry recommendations on improving out-dated system
operating rules and embraces the notion of utilising innovative ways of recovering water for
the environment.
2015 Review
Council notes that the Murray Darling Basin Plan will be reviewed in 2015 in order to give
meaning and life to the adaptive management approach being taken. While this approach is
supported, it does leave an unknown.
Council’s support of the proposed basin plan can therefore only be given to what is known
or intended now. It is however buoyed by the treatment of the Ovens system in the
proposed plan and the accompanying acknowledgement of the health of the system.
We appreciate your consideration of our position.
Page 9 of 10
Prepared by:
Mr Doug Sharp
Chief Executive Officer
Rural City of Wangaratta
(03) 5722 0812
[email protected]
Wangaratta Government Centre
62-68 Ovens Street Wangaratta VIC 3677
PO Box 238 Wangaratta VIC 3676
Phone: 03 5722 0888
Fax: 03 5721 9526
Email: [email protected]
Web: www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au
30 January 2012
Page 10 of 10
Wangaratta Rural City Council – Ordinary Meeting
21 February 2011
ATTACHMENT
COUNCIL PLAN – PROGRESS REPORT
Refer Item 11.2.1.4
Quarterlyy Reportt to Cou
uncil - October to Dece
ember 2011
v3.2.1
1 Rural City
ty of Wangaratta
QUARTERLY REPORT
T TO COUNCIL (O
October to Decem
mber 2011)
Coun
ncil Plan Ac
ctions
Strategy
y:
ACT
TION
PROGR
RESS COMMENTS
S
DEPART
TMENT
CO
OMP DATE
1.1.1 To eng
gage the commun
nity in a strategic a
approach to decis
sion-making and the developmentt of the Rural City
y of Wangaratta.
1.1.1.1 C
CP - Implement th
he Community Engagement
Strategy focusing on greate
er involvement by the
t
o the
communiity in decision-makking and planning of
Rural Cityy of Wangaratta.
Community We
ellbeing
The Community Planning program continues a focus on
implementing the Commu
unity Engagement Strategy
S
across
Councill Units.
Commu
unity Engagement S
Strategy continues
s to be implemented
as part of the process for the draft Rural Lan
nd Strategy.
ouncil website has been launched. Functionality
F
New Co
includess a feedback form on each webpage.
Consulttation undertaken o
on Gallery Logo de
evelopment and
Gallery Upgrade Conceptt Plan with Arts, Cu
ulture and Heritage
e
Committtee and Friends off the Gallery.
Commu
unity engagement p
plans utilised in the
e development of
the King
g Valley Masterplan. The project cha
ampions have been
engage
ed with and assisted in the developme
ent of the plan.
Public ccomment sought fo
or 2011/2012 draft Budget and revised
2011/12
2 draft budget
Strategyy is employed on a
all business plannin
ng projects.
Youth ssurvey conducted tto determine prime
e issues, needs and
d
activitie
es of young people.
Urban & Rural Communityy Planning program
m continues to link
directly to the community on emerging issue
es and determine
local priorities.
Ongoing
2 January 24, 2012
Rural City
ty of Wangaratta
Strategy
y:
QUARTERLY REPORT
T TO COUNCIL (O
October to Decem
mber 2011)
ACT
TION
PROGR
RESS COMMENTS
S
DEPART
TMENT
CO
OMP DATE
1.1.1 To eng
gage the commun
nity in a strategic a
approach to decis
sion-making and the developmentt of the Rural City
y of Wangaratta.
1.1.1.1 C
CP - Integrate the outcomes of the
Commun
nity Planning Progrram within Council’’s
planning process and otherr agencies and leve
els of
government.
Community We
ellbeing
Contactt being maintained
d with external agen
ncies and
opportu
unities being pursued to integrate use
e of community
planning. Stronger links are being developed between internall
ves. Greater
businesss units and community representativ
involvem
ment in the Community Planning Pro
ocess in being
encoura
aged which is resu
ulting in the inclusio
on of community
priorities in council projectt planning.
elopment of the Co
ommunity Grants Program has
Redeve
provided an opportunity to
o strengthen the lin
nk of community
anning process. Th
his has increased
planning with Council's pla
olvement and awarreness of the whole
e of the organisation
the invo
with com
mmunity planning.
Discusssions undertaken w
with the CFA to incorporate the
develop
pment of all future T
Town Protection Plans
P
with
Commu
unity Planning.
1.1.1.1 C
CP - Implement Sttage 1 of the action
n plan for Stage 1 of the 2030 Comm
munity Vision has been incorporated
the 2030 Community Vision
n.
into the 2009-2013 Counccil Plan (Adjusted 2011)
2
and is being
actioned where appropriate.
1.1.1.1 C
CP - Continue the p
practice of holding Council
meetingss across the Rural City of Wangaratta
a on a
rotational basis.
Sustainability
Meeting
g timetable establisshed for 2010/11 in
ncluding four rural
meeting
gs.
Meeting
g program including
g four rural meetings set at Novembe
er
2011 Council meeting
Strategy
y:
0/06/2013
30
Ongoing
Community We
ellbeing
30
0/12/2011
Community We
ellbeing
A review
w of the Communitty Grants process has been
underta
aken and implemen
nted. The revised program
p
has
required
d a stronger link to
o Community Plans
s. This reviewed
processs will also provide g
greater opportunity
y for each
community to progress the
eir plans by achieving priority projects
s.
A numb
ber of applications received for the minor and major
categorry of Community grrants were directly linked to actions
from Co
ommunity Plans. T
The assessment pa
anel considered this
s
link as p
part of the criteria ffor funding.
30
0/12/2012
Oxley h
CP - Complete the C
Community Planning
has completed their plan and is still to
o be presented to
1.1.1.2 C
Program while encouraging
g groups and indiviiduals
Councill. Springhurst, Wh
hitfield, Everton an
nd Milawa are
e not as yet becom
me involved in the process
p
to planning their reviews.
who have
be engag
ged.
1.1.1.2 C
CP - Review the community grants process to
link to the
e outcomes of Com
mmunity Planning and
a / or
take into account recovery needs.
Executive Serv
vices
0/12/2014
30
1.1.2 To take
e a whole-of-gove
ernment approach
h to the developm
ment and wellbein
ng of the Rural Citty of Wangaratta.
3 January 24, 2012
Rural City
ty of Wangaratta
Strategy
y:
QUARTERLY REPORT
T TO COUNCIL (O
October to Decem
mber 2011)
ACT
TION
PROGR
RESS COMMENTS
S
DEPART
TMENT
1.1.2 To take
e a whole-of-gove
ernment approach
h to the developm
ment and wellbein
ng of the Rural Citty of Wangaratta.
CO
OMP DATE
1.1.2.1 C
CP - Advocate for ccontinued investme
ent into
hospitals, government servvices, education, arrts and
culture, recreation facilities..
ellbeing
Community We
Ongoing involvement as a Board member with
w the Borinya
Educatiion Centre.
Partnerrships maintained w
with health provide
ers through the
Primaryy Care Partnership and Medicare Loc
cals platform,
Educatiion, Sport and Recreation providers and
a others to ensure
Councill is aware of the ind
dustry needs and how
h
to effectively
advocatte for services.
Work co
ontinuing with the Y
Yarrunga Primary School and other
primaryy health providers o
on new infrastructu
ure development
and Yarrrunga Hub projectt.
Local ca
atchment primary h
health forum estab
blished. This has
strength
hened the relationsship and link with other
o
agencies and
d
sectors.
pation as a Steering
g Committee member to develop the
Particip
Ovens a
and King Commun
nity Health Service Plan.
Further engagement will b
be provided as Med
dicare Locals mode
el
is imple
emented for the Hu
ume region.
1.1.2.1 C
CP - Participate acctively in Regional Cities
Victoria.
Particip
pated in developme
ent of submission on
o guidelines and
criteria for the new Region
nal Growth Fund. Developing
D
an
Essential Economics Report on the
update to the successful E
benefitss of Regional Citiess.
vices
Executive Serv
Ongoing
CP - Ensure the Wa
angaratta Governm
ment
1.1.2.1 C
Centre co
ontinues to provide
e access to a range
e of
informatio
on and services for our community.
Provisio
on of information fo
or a range of servic
ces continues.
Sustainability
Ongoing
Sustainability
30
0/12/2012
1.1.2.1 C
CP - Investigate the
e feasibility of incre
easing the Architecctural and financial assessment of bu
uilding expansion
range of services available from the Wangara
atta
has dettermined that furthe
er investment the project
p
would not
Governm
ment Centre.
achieve
e current financial rreturns.
No furth
her investigation is proposed
Ongoing
1.1.2.2 C
CP - Maintain strong external links witth all
spheres o
of Government and
d respective Departments
and authorities.
vices
Continu
ual meetings with G
Government at all le
evels on issues and Executive Serv
projectss of interest. Rece
ent deputations witth Government
include:
an
* Murray Darling Basin Pla
utcome
* Ovenss Aquifer Study Ou
* Rural Land Study
* Ovenss Riverside
* Regional Growth Plan
Ongoing
CP - Facilitate invesstigations into a lon
ng term
1.1.2.3 C
secure w
water supply for Wa
angaratta and district.
vices
Study in
nto understanding the scale and sustainable yield for the Executive Serv
Ovens A
Aquifer finalised. Involvement in esttablishing
manage
ement rules now a priority.
0/12/2012
30
4 January 24, 2012
Rural City
ty of Wangaratta
Strategy
y:
QUARTERLY REPORT
T TO COUNCIL (O
October to Decem
mber 2011)
ACT
TION
PROGR
RESS COMMENTS
S
DEPART
TMENT
1.1.2 To take
e a whole-of-gove
ernment approach
h to the developm
ment and wellbein
ng of the Rural Citty of Wangaratta.
1.1.2.4 C
CP - Actively particiipate in the implem
mentation Mayor a
and Chief Executivve Officer represen
nting region on
of the Hume Strategy for Su
ustainable Commun
nities and Co-ordinating Committee.. Priorities now established for
pursue th
implementing Strategy an
he opportunities arising from it.
nd being pursued.
1.1.2.5 C
CP - Promote the re
egional partnership
ps model
as a wayy of engaging Wholle-of-Government
participattion in issues and p
projects affecting the Rural
City of W
Wangaratta.
vices
Executive Serv
vices
Regiona
al Planning Model forms basis of poliicy development fo
or Executive Serv
Whole o
of Government in V
Victoria and is know
wn as Hume
Strategyy for Sustainable C
Communities. Coordinating
Committtee consists of Ch
hair of North East Local
L
Government
Networkk, Chair and Execu
utive Officer of Reg
gional Developmen
nt
Australiia and Executive O
Officer of Regional Management
Forum.
CO
OMP DATE
30
0/12/2013
Ongoing
5 January 24, 2012
Rural City
ty of Wangaratta
Strategy
y:
QUARTERLY REPORT
T TO COUNCIL (O
October to Decem
mber 2011)
ACT
TION
PROGR
RESS COMMENTS
S
1.2.1 a) To fo
ocus on core-bus
siness and non-co
ore business as d
defined in Append
dix 2.
b) To act as an advocate and
d facilitator in othe
er functions.
DEPART
TMENT
CO
OMP DATE
vices
1.2.1.1 C
CP - Apply organisa
ational resources directly
d
to Councill has adopted the 2
2011-2012 Annual Budget as required Executive Serv
Local Government Act.
service delivery in areas of core business and non-core by the L
business.
Ongoing
Executive Serv
vices
Ongoing
1.2.1.3 C
CP - Continue facilittatory role in waterr security Active rrole in all areas.
and re-usse projects, provisiion of community health,
h
youth, eth
hnic and education
n services, river
managem
ment and the like .
Executive Serv
vices
Ongoing
1.2.1.4 C
CP - Lobby for regio
onalisation of gove
ernment
services.
Through
h Regional Cities V
Victoria a plan is be
eing pursued in
supportt of positioning regional centres as the liveable
alternattive to metropolitan
n Melbourne. Reg
gionalisation of
servicess through the deve
elopment and expa
ansion of
governm
ment centres such as the Wangaratta
a Government
Centre is being promoted as vehicle for achieving this.
Executive Serv
vices
30
0/06/2013
1.2.1.5 C
CP - Give priority to
o post flood recovery works
in the allo
ocation of resource
es and advocate fo
or
improved
d funding outcomess.
Executive Serv
vices
Through
h North East Locall Government Netw
work improved
funding outcomes achieve
ed and now endors
sed at Council of
Australiian Governments (COAG) level. Capital works program
m
revised to give priority to fflood recovery. Contract works
continuing.
30
0/12/2012
1.2.1.2 C
CP - Deliver service
es according to Bes
st Value
(value forr money) principless and legislated sta
andards.
Strategy
y:
alue principles conttinue to be applied
d to the provision off
Best Va
servicess and projects.
1.2.2 To min
nimise risk as a way
w of providing a safer public and work place envirronment.
Sustainability
Ongoing
1.2.2.1 C
CP - Implement whe
ere appropriate or review
where ne
eeded Council’s Intternal Audit Work Program
P
and Risk Management Stra
ategy.
Internall Audit Work progra
am reviewed by Au
udit Advisory
Committtee quarterly. Intternal audit recomm
mendations now
assigne
ed accountabilities and require regula
ar updates from
responssible officers.
CP - Implement whe
ere appropriate or review
1.2.2.1 C
where ne
eeded Council’s Mu
unicipal Emergenc
cy
Managem
ment Plan.
ellbeing
Municip
pal Emergency Man
nagement Plan (MEMP) reviewed and Community We
adopted
d by Council and th
hree yearly audit process completed..
Further review to be unde
ertaken in next 12 months
m
once advice
of addittional legislative an
nd regulative chang
ges are received.
1.2.2.1 C
CP - Develop a riskk management app
proach to
identify th
he impacts of clima
ate change on core
e and
non-core Council business..
Councill operations being assessed against risks identified in
Climate
e Change Adaption
n Actions for Local Government
develop
ped by Departmentt of Climate Chang
ge and Energy
Efficiency.
Sustainability
0/12/2011
30
CP - Implement whe
ere appropriate or review
1.2.2.2 C
where ne
eeded Council’s Ro
oad Management Plan.
P
C
2009 Road Management Plan adopted by Council.
Sustainability
30
0/06/2013
31/12/2014
6 January 24, 2012
Rural City
ty of Wangaratta
Strategy
y:
QUARTERLY REPORT
T TO COUNCIL (O
October to Decem
mber 2011)
ACT
TION
PROGR
RESS COMMENTS
S
1.2.2 To min
nimise risk as a way
w of providing a safer public and work place envirronment.
DEPART
TMENT
Community We
ellbeing
1.2.2.2 C
CP - Review Counccil’s Local Law Num
mber 1
“Commun
nity Amenity.”
Local Law being reworked
d with updated draft due at the end of
o
ber 2011. This wiill require public co
onsultation due to a
Decemb
numberr of proposed chan
nges.
1.2.2.3 C
CP - Implement whe
ere appropriate or review
where ne
eeded Council’s Orrganisational Occu
upational
Health an
nd Safety Plan.
Sustainability
OHS manual review comm
menced.
OHS management system
m compliance auditt by 3rd party
completted.
OHS po
olicies are being up
pdated to bring the
em in line with the
new Mo
odel OHS Act whicch will be in force frrom January 2012.
Evacua
ation plans completted for all work are
eas.
Physiottherapy providers h
have been engaged to assist return to
o
work prrocesses, manual h
handling training and ergonomic
assessm
ments.
1.2.2.3 C
CP - Implement whe
ere appropriate or review
where ne
eeded Council’s Firre Prevention Plan
n
ellbeing
pal Fire Prevention Strategy reviewed
d and signed off by
y Community We
Municip
CEO. A
Audit process to be undertaken as part of CFA bi-yearly
y
review. The updated plan
sed by the Municipa
al
n has been endors
Fire Pre
evention Committe
ee.
Strategy
y:
CO
OMP DATE
30
0/12/2012
Ongoing
30
0/12/2014
1.2.3 To inve
est in and deploy proven Informatiion Management Systems to ensurre effective acces
ss to information and services.
1.2.3.1 C
CP - Continue the d
deployment of Tech
hnology
One Systtem.
Plannin
ng system impleme
ented
Human Resources 90% ccomplete.
g complete.
Building
Base syystem upgraded.
Cemete
ery service module
e configured.
Configu
uration of request m
management has commenced.
c
Sustainability
0/12/2011
30
1.2.3.1 C
CP - Investigate opportunities to prov
vide
improved
d telecommunicatio
ons into the Rural City
C of
Wangara
atta, comparable w
with metropolitan ac
ccess.
al Development Au
ustralia Committee
e are currently
Regiona
preparin
ng a consultants brief for the develop
pment of the Hume
e
Region ICT strategy.
vices
Executive Serv
30
0/12/2012
1.2.3.1 C
CP - Develop an e-B
Business Strategy.
ed at SMT, with intterested parties forr
Initial diiscussion conducte
cross-fu
unctional engagem
ment identified. Drraft strategy to be
completted by April 2012
IT strate
egy in process of b
being refreshed. Th
hese two strategies
s
will be a
aligned and support the Council Plan
n
Sustainability
0/12/2012
30
Strategy
y:
1.2.4 To ope
erate specific und
dertakings on a bu
usiness basis with
h sufficient funding to meet agreed
d community ben
nefit.
1.2.4.1 C
CP - Establish and maintain the follow
wing
specific b
business undertakings as self-contain
ned units
and clearrly identify Council’s required contribu
utions for
the next 5 years: Wangarattta Livestock Excha
ange
blished.
Strategic objectives estab
g development prio
orities & business case.
c
Refining
Prelimin
nary design and bu
udget costings dev
veloped for major
capital p
priorities.
Rubberr soft stand productt under trial.
Sustainability
Ongoing
7 January 24, 2012
Rural City
ty of Wangaratta
Strategy
y:
QUARTERLY REPORT
T TO COUNCIL (O
October to Decem
mber 2011)
ACT
TION
PROGR
RESS COMMENTS
S
DEPART
TMENT
1.2.4 To ope
erate specific und
dertakings on a bu
usiness basis with
h sufficient funding to meet agreed
d community ben
nefit.
CO
OMP DATE
Community We
ellbeing
0/12/2013
30
1.2.4.1 C
CP - Establish the fo
following specific business
undertakings as self-contained units and clea
arly
Council’s required ccontributions for the next 5
identify C
years: W
Wangaratta Child Ca
are Service.
Community We
ellbeing
Wangarratta Childcare ope
erating within resou
urce revenue.
Further work to be underta
aken to ensure all amenities
a
are being
usiness plan in drafft to provide 5 yearr
approprriately charged. Bu
planning tool.
0/12/2012
30
1.2.4.1 C
CP - Establish and maintain the follow
wing
specific b
business undertakings as self-contain
ned units
and clearrly identify Council’s required contribu
utions for
the next 5 years: Wangarattta Performing Arts
s Centre.
Y 11/12 budget wass approved and the
e Wangaratta
The FY
Perform
ming Arts Centre is on track to meet key
k performance
indicato
ors specified for this financial year. Fu
urther work to be
underta
aken to ensure all a
amenities are being
g appropriately
charged
d.
ellbeing
Community We
30
0/12/2014
Work ha
1.2.4.1 C
CP - Establish and maintain the follow
wing
as commenced on
n the development of a Waste
ement strategy for the Rural City of Wangaratta.
W
specific b
business undertakings as self-contain
ned units Manage
and clearrly identify Council’s required contribu
utions for
the next 5 years: Waste ma
anagement.
Infrastructure Services
S
0/12/2014
30
Plant & fleet managementt policy & replacem
1.2.4.2 C
CP - Establish and maintain the follow
wing
ment plan
specific b
business undertakings as self-contain
ned units implemented.
and clearrly identify Council’s required contribu
utions for
the next 5 years: Plant and Fleet
Sustainability
0/12/2014
30
1.2.4.1 C
CP - Establish and maintain the follow
wing
e delivery contract rreviewed in May 2011 and extended
Service
specific b
business undertakings as self-contain
ned units for a furrther two years within existing agreem
ment. Budget and
perations functionin
ng within allocation
n of resources.
and clearrly identify Council’s required contribu
utions for daily op
the next 5 years: Wangarattta Aquatic Facilitie
es
1.2.4.2 C
CP - Establish and
d maintain the following
specific b
business undertakings as self-contain
ned units
and clearrly identify Council’s required contribu
utions for
the next 5 years: Wangarattta Public Cemeterry
Community We
ellbeing
angaratta Public Ce
emetery continues
s to operate under
The Wa
the Wan
ngaratta Cemeteryy Trust as a self-su
ustaining,
self-con
ntained business unit. Further work to be undertaken to
ensure all amenities are b
being appropriately
y charged. Business
Plan to be developed.
30
0/12/2011
1.2.4.2 C
CP - Establish and maintain the follow
wing
specific b
business undertakings as self-contain
ned units
and clearrly identify Council’s required contribu
utions for
the next 5 years: Community Support North East.
E
unity Support North
h East is a viable business
b
venture. A
Commu
Businesss Plan has been ccompleted. A 5 yea
ar financial plan is
being developed to identiffy Council's future contribution to
HACC sservices.
ellbeing
Community We
0/12/2014
30
1.2.4.3 C
CP - Investigate the
e establishment of a
crematorrium at the Wangarratta Public Cemettery.
gation will be underrtaken during 2011
1/2012 financial
Investig
year. P
Policy direction being monitored. Da
ata on need for
cremato
orium being collectted.
ellbeing
Community We
0/06/2013
30
8 January 24, 2012
Rural City
ty of Wangaratta
Strategy
y:
ACT
TION
PROGR
RESS COMMENTS
S
1.3.1 To prov
es ensuring Coun
ncil’s ongoing fina
ancial viability.
vide responsible financial practice
1.3.1.1 C
CP - Maintain a 10 Y
Year Financial Pla
an
predicate
ed on the following:
·
Ma
aintaining service d
delivery at current
standardss;
·
Ra
ate income at rate growth plus a costt index
factor;
ent and renewal of assets as
·
Acchieving replaceme
programm
med;
·
Prrovision of new asssets as identified;
·
Ma
aintaining the healtth and functional
requirements of the organissation.
Strategy
y:
QUARTERLY REPORT
T TO COUNCIL (O
October to Decem
mber 2011)
DEPART
TMENT
Sustainability
Councill's 10 Year Financial Plan updated fo
or the 2011/12
revised budget in accord
dance with required
d conditions. The
was subjected to an independent aud
dit review in Feb
model w
2011.
Asset re
enewal modelling a
assumptions have been workshopped
with sta
akeholders prior to updating 10 year financial
f
plan with
renewal demand.
CO
OMP DATE
Ongoing
1.3.2 To app
ply a triple bottom
m line approach to
o the assessment of new initiatives
s.
1.3.2.1 C
CP - Undertake a ra
ating review to ens
sure that
the rating
g strategy is consisstent with Council Plan
P
objectives.
Not com
mmenced. To be co
ompleted early in 2012/2013
2
budget
processs.
1.3.2.1 C
CP - Develop a triplle bottom line meth
hodology Draft model, appropriate tto Council's circum
mstances, has been
n
that conssiders social, enviro
onmental and finan
ncial
incorporated into project a
assessment proces
ss for 2012/13
sustainab
bility.
budget..
Further consideration bein
ng given to incorpo
oration of TBL into
ement policy
procure
Sustainability
30
0/12/2012
Sustainability
30
0/12/2011
9 January 24, 2012
Rural City
ty of Wangaratta
Strategy
y:
QUARTERLY REPORT
T TO COUNCIL (O
October to Decem
mber 2011)
ACT
TION
PROGR
RESS COMMENTS
S
DEPART
TMENT
CO
OMP DATE
2.1.1 To prov
vide a diverse vis
sual arts experien
nce and opportunities for local and
d regional commu
unities and visitorrs by the Wangara
atta exhibitions Gallery.
G
2.1.1.1 C
CP - Operate within Arts Industry Stan
ndards for Work on
n Wangaratta Art G
Gallery collection storage
s
for specific
Regional Art Galleries.
items has been implemen
nted. This involves the making of and
construction of acid free sstorage boxes and designing and
e works in the
constructing correct storage items for textile
collectio
on.
2.1.1.2 C
CP - Provide a diverse program of cha
anging
exhibition
ns for the benefit of the public.
ons installed in the
Exhibitio
e Gallery, Worksho
op Space and
Wangarratta Performing A
Arts Centre foyers during
d
October,
Novemb
ber and Decemberr included:
Community We
ellbeing
Ongoing
ellbeing
Community We
Ongoing
ng Our Tomorrow' b
by GANEAA - Gou
ulburn and North
'Creatin
East Arrts Alliance, JazzAR
RT and JazzART Next
N
Awards and
exhibitio
on, EXIT '11 GOTA
AFE (Goulburn Ovens Institute of
TAFE)g
graduating studentss annual exhibition, 'One Step Further'
Victoria
an Quilters Award e
exhibition coincidin
ng with 'Collections
s',
Works ffrom the Gallery co
ollection. 'My Coun
ntry indigenous
works o
of art on loan from tthe Ron and Ross Aldridge collection
n,
Paul Te
emple + Ian Hood p
photographic images 'On Stage: Roc
ck
in Oz', A
Anita Laurence 'Prrints and Paintings'', Susan Mathews:
Textile a
art quilts.
2.1.1.3 C
CP - Deliver visual a
arts programs acro
oss the
Rural Cityy of Wangaratta th
hrough the Local
Partnersh
hips Program funding and provide inc
creased
opportunities to create linkss with the Rural Citty of
Benalla a
and Indigo and Alpine Shires.
Strategy
y:
ellbeing
Gallery staff are continuing
g to plan for and de
evelop a local artistts Community We
touring exhibition scheduled for 2012. This exhibition
e
will tour
across tthe region.
0/12/2012
30
2.1.2 To prom
mote the benefits
s of a culturally, liinguistically and rreligiously diverse society and the
e social, cultural and
a economic opp
portunities this prrovides.
ellbeing
2.1.2.1 C
CP - Work in partne
ership with key stak
keholders Research continuing to identify appropriate method to develop
p Community We
to develo
op a Multicultural S
Strategic Plan.
ernal working group
a Multiccultural Strategic Plan. Meeting of inte
scheduled to commence p
planning.
Strategy
y:
2.1.3 To faciilitate arts and cultural events and festivals.
30
0/12/2012
ellbeing
2.1.3.1 C
CP - Continue the ob
bjectives of the Generations Develop
pment of Arts activvities for the Christm
mas Program in the Community We
Project by seeking opportun
nities to maintain the
Central Business District.
engagem
ment of older people.
ation's resources be
eing well utilised. Ongoing
O
Genera
involvem
ment of key stakeh
holders including U3A
U and schools in
joint acttivities.
Opportu
unities identified an
nd pursued to enga
age older people in
n
perform
mances, for examplle morning melodie
es. WPAC is made
e
to be acccessible and enco
ourage attendance
e from all age
groups..
30
0/12/2013
January 24, 2012
10 Rural City
ty of Wangaratta
Strategy
y:
QUARTERLY REPORT
T TO COUNCIL (O
October to Decem
mber 2011)
ACT
TION
PROGR
RESS COMMENTS
S
2.1.3 To faciilitate arts and cultural events and festivals.
2.1.3.1 C
CP - Develop a plan
n to enhance Wang
garatta’s
status ass the Jazz Capital o
of Australia.
DEPART
TMENT
Executive Serv
vices
With the
e assistance of the
e Economic Develo
opment Unit, the
Wangarratta Jazz Festival Board was succes
ssful in obtaining
funding to undertake a Bu
usiness Plan for the
e festival moving
d. This Business Plan will develop strategies to ensure
forward
the susttainability, viability and feasibility of th
he festival. Through
this process, and with the assistance of the Economic
pment and Tourism
m Department, the Wangaratta Jazz
Develop
Festival will be able to furtther enhance Wan
ngaratta's status as
s
alia.
the Jazzz Capital of Austra
CO
OMP DATE
30
0/12/2011
sm Department sits
s
In addittion, a representative from the Touris
on the O
Operational Comm
mittee to provide rec
commendation and
d
advice. This also looks to further leverage on opportunities to
atus moving forwarrd.
enhancce Wangaratta's sta
2.1.3.1 C
CP - Increase com
mmunity arts and cu
ulture
delivery in townships across the Rural City off
Wangara
atta.
Melbourne Writers Festiva
al workshops held in Wangaratta.
ural locations,
Heritage Festival conductted in urban and ru
g participants from
Heritage Idol competition finalised engaging
eveloped for
across tthe municipality. Working Group de
Indigenous story telling Prroject. Art and Craft activities offered
through
hout the Christmas Program. Ongoing
g discussions and
networkking with relevant ccouncil units and community
stakeho
olders.
ellbeing
Community We
Ongoing
2.1.3.2 C
CP - Capture the hisstory of migration through
t
time within the Rural City off Wangaratta.
ellbeing
Community We
Project captured through short film in the Cu
ulture Victoria
on, ongoing work being
b
undertaken
Project,, Stories of Migratio
through
h education and pub
blicity, film shown at
a Bonegilla Migran
nt
Camp.
Ongoing
CP - Explore opporttunities for a speciffic
2.1.3.3 C
Indigenou
us art or cultural evvent.
ellbeing
Partnerrship with Dirrawarra Network for the delivery of Nationa
al Community We
Aborigin
nes and Islanders Day Observance Committee
C
event at
a
Avian P
Park achieved in 20
011. Ongoing work
k with Dirrawarra fo
or
the reco
ording of Indigenou
us elders stories.
30
0/12/2012
2.1.3.4 C
CP - Participate in C
Cultural Diversity Week.
W
akeholders broughtt together to look at
a funding
Key sta
opportu
unities and partnersships for 2012. Pla
anning commenced
d
for a Ha
armony Day Event in 2012.
ellbeing
Community We
0/06/2013
30
11 January 24, 2012
Rural City
ty of Wangaratta
Strategy
y:
QUARTERLY REPORT
T TO COUNCIL (O
October to Decem
mber 2011)
ACT
TION
PROGR
RESS COMMENTS
S
2.2.1 To esta
ablish the Wangaratta Performing Arts Centre as a high quality, and accessible facilitty.
DEPART
TMENT
CO
OMP DATE
ellbeing
Community We
In the first quarter of this ffinancial year many
y events were run
ery low cost in orde
er to ensure that the
that were either free or ve
venue iss accessible to all community members.
The September school ho
oliday program was
s well received and
d
milies to activities within the Performing
introducced many new fam
Arts Ce
entre.
Collabo
oration amongst co
ommunity groups to
o value-add to
perform
mances and events was well received
d . Both the
Wangarratta Ukulele Band
d and the North East Health Auxiliary
both be
enefited from joining with the venue to
o showcase their
talents as well as the prog
gramming at the ve
enue.
ng for the Small Tow
wns Tour progress
sed during the first
Plannin
quarter of FY 11/12 and m
much interest and excitement has been
munities involved.
generatted within the comm
Local scchools took advanttage of the events at the Performing
Arts Ce
entre resulting in tw
wo sold out perform
mances of The
Gruffalo
o's Child and My G
Grandma Lived in Gooligulch
G
(iconic
children
n's books) and the Melbourne Writers
s Festival - a free
literary event for schools.
Ongoing
ellbeing
Community We
2.2.1.2 C
CP - Establish the W
Wangaratta Perform
ming Arts Commu
unity usage of the W
Wangaratta Perforrming Arts Centre
Centre ass a community bassed venue for meetings and remainss strong and manyy high profile comm
munity focussed
local events.
events are held at the ven
nue.
d to the venue and
New ussers are constantly being introduced
whilst th
he costs to use the venue are higher than
t
in the previous
Town H
Hall the hirer satisfa
action is much grea
ater. Events of note
e
that havve taken place in th
he first quarter of FY
Y 11/12 are Seniorrs
Week e
events, Victorian M
Multicultural Commission information
seminar held on 25 Augusst 2011 and 2010 Youth
Y
Council
farewell event held on 6 JJuly 2011.
Ongoing
2.2.1.1 C
CP - Deliver a high quality and diverse
e
performin
ng arts program.
12 January 24, 2012
Rural City
ty of Wangaratta
Strategy
y:
ACT
TION
PROGR
RESS COMMENTS
S
2.2.1 To esta
ablish the Wangaratta Performing Arts Centre as a high quality, and accessible facilitty.
2.2.1.3 C
CP - Maximise the o
opportunities of the
e
Wangara
atta Performing Artss Centre to attract
conferences and events.
y:
Strategy
QUARTERLY REPORT
T TO COUNCIL (O
October to Decem
mber 2011)
DEPART
TMENT
ellbeing
The Ma
arketing Coordinato
or attended a confe
erence in Melbourne Community We
conductted by Business Evvents Victoria . The main topic
discusssed was developing
g conferencing in regional
r
Victoria.
The Ma
arketing Coordinato
or has been workin
ng with the Tourism
m
Manage
er to develop a Bussiness Events strategy for the Rural
City of W
Wangaratta. Plann
ning is underway fo
or a seminar to be
held at tthe Performing Artss Centre to meet with
w business eventts
related organisations to develop a strategy and
a marketing
mber 2011.
collateral. This event is sccheduled for Novem
CO
OMP DATE
Ongoing
2.2.2 To inte
egrate public art, design
d
and culturral features into th
he planning of ca
apital works proje
ects and public sp
pace developments throughout the
e Rural
City of Wang
garatta.
ellbeing
2.2.2.1 C
CP - Continue to present the biennial sculpture Review
w of this event has b
been undertaken, th
he Arts, Culture and Community We
event and
d place sculpture a
acquisitions in sele
ected
Heritage Advisory Commiittee has been consulted. Artists
Forum/C
sites.
Consultation condu
ucted 3/11/11
Ongoing
2.2.2.1 C
CP - Plan for the in
nclusion of public art,
a design Develop
ping a Public Art priorities list for Pub
blic Art
and cultu
ural features throug
ghout the Rural Citty of
Commisssions. Approval re
eceived from Coun
ncil to proceed with
h
Wangara
atta.
utilising
g the Sculpture Eve
ent to increase spe
ecific public art.
Community We
ellbeing
Ongoing
2.2.2.2 C
CP - Develop a prog
gram to bring the co
ommunity The Rivverside Civic Square is one site being
g considered for a
together to enjoy public spa
aces, commencing
g with the central and significant Christmas tree this will include other
Ovens Riverside Precinct.
Additional opportun
nities are being
related festive activities. A
explored.
ellbeing
Community We
Ongoing
2.2.2.2 C
Projectss identified in ten yyear financial plan and those
CP - Identify and pla
an for priority publiic art
ered appropriate identified. Funding to be pursued.
commissions for capital worrks projects and inc
corporate conside
into capittal works funding a
allocations.
Community We
ellbeing
Ongoing
2.2.2.3 C
CP - Review Counccil’s Public Art Strattegic
Plan.
y:
Strategy
Community We
ellbeing
A Draft Public Art Strategyy has been developed to reflect
e Sculpture Event review process and
changes required after the
subsequent report. To be presented to Coun
ncil in early 2012.
30
0/12/2011
2.2.3 To esta
ablish a preservattion program for cultural and builtt heritage.
13 January 24, 2012
Rural City
ty of Wangaratta
Strategy
y:
QUARTERLY REPORT
T TO COUNCIL (O
October to Decem
mber 2011)
ACT
TION
PROGR
RESS COMMENTS
S
2.2.3 To esta
ablish a preservattion program for cultural and builtt heritage.
2.2.3.1 C
CP - Work with the ccommunities in tow
wnships to Every ccommunity plan hass an element of the
e community
identify a
and preserve local character.
identifyiing its local characcter. King Valley Masterplan
M
underw
way and awaiting re
eport from consulta
ants.
Working
g with the Eldorado
o Tourism Busines
ss Group on
updating the Gunbower P
Park and Main Street area of the
townshiip by erecting visito
or information / inte
erpretive signage.
Working
g with communitiess to preserve local character
infrastru
ucture like heritage
e type 'pedestrian 'swing bridges'.
DEPART
TMENT
Community We
ellbeing
2.2.3.1 C
CP - Explore the co
oncept of a new heritage
facility / m
museum.
Community We
ellbeing
Discusssions progressing w
with stakeholders and
a potential
funding bodies. Some ve
ery preliminary ske
etches developed,
work on concept and space capacity undertaken.
further w
Forum rreport to be provide
ed on the progress
s to January Counc
cil
Forum ffor discussion
2.2.3.1 C
CP - Review and up
pdate Council’s exiisting
Heritage Overlay.
Funding
g obtained from He
eritage Victoria; project
p
brief is
written a
and posted on "He
eritage Chat" for ex
xpressions of
interestt.
CO
OMP DATE
Ongoing
0/06/2012
30
Sustainability
30
0/12/2010
2.2.3.2 C
CP - Complete Heriitage Overlay in rural areas. The 200
04 Heritage Study identified 204 item
ms in the rural areas Sustainability
of the m
municipality.
30
0/12/2011
nly had the ability to
o review 26 of these
The currrent project has on
items.
A reporrt to Council on the
e remaining items, their
t
level of
significa
ance and how the remainder of the project
p
can be
underta
aken was discussed at the Novemberr forum, 2011.
ot be possible to m
meet the project by December, 2011
It will no
and dep
pending on budgett commitments and
d the review of the
list, the project may take a
another 2-3 years to
t complete.
g with Council's He
eritage Advisor to look at options for
Working
ways to
o continue to meet this action having regard to current
thresho
olds for inclusion in planning scheme,, heritage inventory
y
list and work required to ccomplete the items. Discussing
options for completion witth Heritage Victoria
a
e ongoing.
2.2.3.3 C
CP - Provide advice
e and assistance in regard to Heritage Advisory service
heritage buildings and places.
January 24, 2012
Sustainability
Ongoing
14 Rural City
ty of Wangaratta
Strategy
y:
QUARTERLY REPORT
T TO COUNCIL (O
October to Decem
mber 2011)
ACT
TION
PROGR
RESS COMMENTS
S
DEPART
TMENT
CO
OMP DATE
2.2.4 To prom
mote the library service
s
as a comm
munity informatio
on resource that is
s accessible and responsive to co
ommunity need.
Community We
ellbeing
2.2.4.1 C
CP - Provide facilityy based and outrea
ach library Particip
pation in library programs:
services that can be accesssed by all residents
s through Adult prrograms – Oct-Decc 2011 - 17 programs with 489 in
n
the High Country Library Co
orporation.
attenda
ance.
Junior p
programs – Oct-De
ec 2011 – 77 progrrams with 912 in
n
attenda
ance.
There w
were 13 external programs conduc
cted with a total of
241 in a
attendance.
Outreacch service to rural a
areas and specific venues
v
maintained
d.
Ongoing
Community We
ellbeing
Extemp
pore launch
Wangarratta Library in con
njunction with Miria
am Zolin from
Extemp
pore hosted the launch of A sudden se
entence in the air: a
collectio
on of jazz poems b
by Geoff Page. Ap
pproximately 60
people enjoyed the evenin
ng, which was one
e of the first events
for the W
Wangaratta Jazz F
Festival. This is th
he second year tha
at
an even
nt of this nature has been held at the library.
Ongoing
2.2.4.2 C
CP - Advocate for library programs to engage
disadvan
ntaged in the comm
munity.
h the community th
hrough attendance
e
The librrary connected with
at the a
annual Children’s D
Day in the Park and
d the first
anniverrsary celebration fo
or the new owners of KidzRus.
Stories were read to captiive audiences.
15 January 24, 2012
Rural City
ty of Wangaratta
Strategy
y:
QUARTERLY REPORT
T TO COUNCIL (O
October to Decem
mber 2011)
ACT
TION
3.1.1 To sup
pport our commun
nity to be resilient.
PROGR
RESS COMMENTS
S
DEPART
TMENT
CO
OMP DATE
3.1.1.1 C
CP - Expand the ran
nge of festive community
events to
o enhance the livea
ability of the Rural City of
Wangara
atta and create opportunities for the co
ommunity
to come ttogether.
Australiia Day awards ope
en, and event prepa
arations underway
y.
A very ssuccessful Seniorss Festival, was held
d in October 2011
with ove
er 50 events being
g held over 2 weeks
s, and over 1000
people attending the Coun
ncil run events.
11/2012 Summer in the Parks progra
am commenced in
The 201
Decemb
ber with an expand
ded program of eve
ents.
Executive Serv
vices
Ongoing
3.1.1.1 C
CP - Support a Com
mmunity Raffle or similar
s
concept tto provide the oppo
ortunity for commu
unity
groups to
o raise funds.
2011 Community Raffle co
omplete, with $795
5000 raised by 88
local co
ommunity groups.
Community We
ellbeing
Ongoing
ellbeing
The devvelopment of a five
3.1.1.1 C
CP - Continue to up
pgrade facilities to ensure
e year plan of work
ks to address the up Community We
communiities have access tto a place to meet for
f social, keep an
nd maintenance off community halls has
h commenced, in
n
recreational and learning op
pportunities.
conjuncction with the Infrasstructure departme
ent. Funding has
been identified for the refu
urbishment of the AC
A Swinburne
Pavilion
n in Whitfield to devvelop as a community centre.
Ongoing
3.1.1.2 C
CP - Work with othe
er agencies to deve
elop and
implemen
nt approaches to e
enhance and streng
gthen
communiity resilience.
Community We
ellbeing
A comm
munity champions d
data base has bee
en established,
agencie
es such as SES an
nd CFA have made
e use of this data
base. T
Training identified b
by communities to increase resilience
e,
for exam
mple Mental Health
h First Aid and Firs
st Aid.
Ongoing
3.1.1.3 C
CP - Celebrate with
h the community by
y
supportin
ng and enhancing e
existing events inc
cluding
Australia Day, Community P
Pride and specific youth
events.
ellbeing
Australiia Day Survey com
mplete, event planniing underway for 14
4 Community We
Australiia Day Celebration
ns throughout the Rural
R
City.
Creative
e Youth Festival he
eld during Wangarratta Jazz Festival
was a h
huge success. Plan
nning for Rock Poo
ol and Jamuary
underw
way, as well as scho
ool holiday program
m for January.
Ongoing
ellbeing
3.1.1.4 C
CP - Consider Com
mmunity Planning outcomes 2011 - 2
2012 Community G
Grants align with Community
C
Planning Community We
when dellivering the Commu
unity Grants Progrram.
outcomes as per the criteria in the guideline
es.
Ongoing
Strategy
y:
3.1.2 To fostter and encourage
e:
• community
y spirit;
• volunteeris
sm; and
• community
y leadership.
3.1.2.1 C
CP - Support cultura
al groups to celebrrate their
heritage.
Community We
ellbeing
Liaison with a range of gro
oups in relation to heritage / cultural
ebrations including.. Ongoing work with
events, activities and cele
the Dirrrawarra Network on
n collaborative projjects.
Ongoing
16 January 24, 2012
Rural City
ty of Wangaratta
Strategy
y:
ACT
TION
3.1.2 To fostter and encourage
e:
• community
y spirit;
• volunteeris
sm; and
• community
y leadership.
QUARTERLY REPORT
T TO COUNCIL (O
October to Decem
mber 2011)
PROGR
RESS COMMENTS
S
DEPART
TMENT
CO
OMP DATE
3.1.2.1 C
CP - Resolve positio
on on the Wangara
atta and
District C
Community Founda
ation.
Community We
ellbeing
Due diliigence report comp
pleted and provide
ed to Council with
responsses to issues. Deputation to Council in July 2010
provided by representative of Philanthropy Australia.
A
Councill
nistrative support fo
or the establishmen
nt
resolved to provide admin
Wangaratta & District Community Fou
undation.
of the W
Discusssions held with representative of the Foundation and
awaiting
g response.
3.1.2.2 C
CP - Facilitate comm
munity think tanks on
significan
nt community issue
es.
Develop
pment of an urban community planning process
underw
way.
ellbeing
Community We
Ongoing
3.1.2.3 C
CP - Identify and su
upport potential com
mmunity
leaders a
and encourage their development.
ellbeing
A Comm
munity Planning co
ommunity champion was sponsored to Community We
go to the Communities in Control Conferenc
ce and to participate
in the A
Alpine Valleys Lead
dership program.
Ongoing
Community We
ellbeing
Ongoing
Community We
ellbeing
Urban C
Community Plannin
ng has identified new community
groups representing youn
ng families and you
uth.
nclusion Group has been supported
Wangarratta Access and In
with the
e accessibility expo
o and disability cha
allenge.
Commu
unity champions prrovided with suppo
ort to progress
projectss through the Community Planning Program.
Commu
unity Pride Committtee recognised forr achievements in
Keep A
Australia Beautiful T
Tidy Towns Awards
s.
Continu
ue to provide strong
g support and advo
ocacy for the Alpine
Valleys Community Leade
ership Program.
ommunity projects
Techniccal Services contiinues to support co
which in
nvolve volunteerism
m and community leadership.
Ongoing support provided
d to Youth Council events and
es.
activitie
Financial services provide
ed in relation to transactional
z Festival,
processsing, reporting and acquittals for Jazz
community programs, library and rail trail.
Ongoing
3.1.2.4 C
CP - Celebrate community champions including Australiia Day Award nomination process is complete. Judging
g
Citizens o
of the Year.
panel currently presiding o
over them. Planning for Australia
Day Ce
elebrations currently underway.
3.1.2.5 C
CP - Support existin
ng forums and lead
dership
developm
ment.
30
0/12/2011
17 January 24, 2012
Rural City
ty of Wangaratta
Strategy
y:
ACT
TION
3.1.2 To fostter and encourage
e:
• community
y spirit;
• volunteeris
sm; and
• community
y leadership.
QUARTERLY REPORT
T TO COUNCIL (O
October to Decem
mber 2011)
PROGR
RESS COMMENTS
S
DEPART
TMENT
CO
OMP DATE
ellbeing
The We
3.1.2.6 C
CP - Promote beneffits of volunteering
g and
est End Communityy Meeting Place ha
as provided a space Community We
alternativve ways to voluntee
er which are consis
stent with for the W
West End Community Group to creatte new volunteer
contempo
orary lifestyles.
roles in the neighbourhoo
od. These new roles include,
ping and maintainin
ng garden beds; ho
osting a Xmas
develop
decorattion craft workshop
p; and hosting a co
ommunity Xmas
celebration to launch theirr community plan.
volved with the aim
m
The South Wangaratta Acction Group has ev
activities for youth. The group are
of supporting recreation a
ders in the
currentlly building relationsship with stakehold
Yarrung
ga/South Wangara
atta locality. They plan to meet
regularlly at the Yarrunga Hub in 2012.
Ongoing
ellbeing
Community We
3.1.2.7 C
CP - Continue to su
upport volunteer recognition Australiia Day awards ope
ened and promoted
d.
activities..
The Artt Gallery has been allocated tickets by
b the Wangaratta
Perform
ming Arts Centre fo
or one performing arts
a program per
month tto go into a draw fo
or volunteer Gallery
y 'sitters'.
Certifica
ates of Recognition
n organised for Volunteers when
retiring, at other significan
nt anniversaries, an
nd for
wledgement of speccial events/activity..
acknow
The Ma
ayor and/or anotherr Councillor have represented Counc
cil
at a num
mber of functions a
acknowledging volu
unteer activities
includin
ng Tidy Towns Susstainable Communiities presentations,
Access & Inclusion Disability Expo.
Ongoing
3.1.2.8 C
CP - Advocate to m
minimise barriers to
volunteerring.
The We
est End Communityy Group have been
n supported by
Councill to develop leaderrship within the gro
oup so they can
become
e more resilient and sustainable throu
ugh establishing a
community plan.
Community We
ellbeing
Ongoing
3.1.2.9 C
CP - Communicate volunteer opportun
nities in
partnersh
hip with agencies ssuch as the Community
Skills Ban
nk and Communityy Learning Centre.
The We
est End Communityy Group (WECG) with
w support from
Councill have developed a partnership with Pangerang
P
Commu
unity House. Theyy have jointly hoste
ed a Xmas
Decorattion Workshop that was attended by 35 young people
and adu
ults.
The WE
ECG have also devveloped a relations
ship with the
Wangarratta Police to help
p inform their comm
munity safety
objectivves and actions.
The South Wangaratta Acction Group have established
e
a
unga Primary Scho
ool's Parents'
relationship with the Yarru
Councill to support their yo
outh recreation pla
an.
Community We
ellbeing
Ongoing
January 24, 2012
18 Rural City
ty of Wangaratta
Strategy
y:
QUARTERLY REPORT
T TO COUNCIL (O
October to Decem
mber 2011)
ACT
TION
3.1.3 To prom
mote a high levell of community sa
afety.
3.1.3.1 C
CP - Participate in a
and promote comm
munity
safety forrums such as Neig
ghbourhood Watch and the
Commun
nity Safety Committtee.
PROGR
RESS COMMENTS
S
DEPART
TMENT
Community We
ellbeing
Vic Poliice member attend
ds Community Wellbeing committee
where ssafety issues are d
discussed and actio
ons identified.
Currenttly selected Techniical Services staff are
a members of the
Traffic L
Liaison Group.
Councill has also introduce
ed Road Safety Prrograms such as
'Making
g Motorcycling Safe
er'.
Comple
eted online survey - Inquiry into locally based
approacches to communityy safety and crime prevention.
CO
OMP DATE
Ongoing
.
Community We
ellbeing
Ongoing
Community We
ellbeing
Supportt for Ovens & King
3.1.3.3 C
CP - Identify and en
nhance the core ele
ements
g Community Health Service in
which contribute to community safety and live
eability in applying
g for program fund
ding to reduce harm
mful effects of binge
the Rurall City of Wangarattta.
drinking
g by young people..
Regularr inspections of the
e road and path ne
etworks
Techno
ologyOne works & a
assets module imp
plementation
includin
ng asset registers & recurring risk inspection processes
proceed
ding
Young d
driver education - L
L2P Program has achieved good
numberr of young learner d
drivers being menttored by volunteers
s.
Ongoing
3.1.3.2 C
CP - Partner with th
he police and otherr allied
agenciess in preventing anti-social behaviour.
Strategy
y:
Consulttation with Police in
n relation to graffiti issues and other
acts of vvandalism.
Local P
Police involvement with specific areas
s of Urban
Commu
unity Planning whe
ere police/community relationships
need to
o be bridged.
Liaison and involvement o
of the police is occurring with youth
es - L2P Learner D
Driver Program, Blue Light Discos.
activitie
3.1.4 To sup
pport communities
s in times of crisiis.
19 January 24, 2012
Rural City
ty of Wangaratta
Strategy
y:
QUARTERLY REPORT
T TO COUNCIL (O
October to Decem
mber 2011)
ACT
TION
3.1.4 To sup
pport communities
s in times of crisiis.
PROGR
RESS COMMENTS
S
DEPART
TMENT
CO
OMP DATE
3.1.4.1 C
CP - Support comm
munities in identifyin
ng their
needs to achieve recovery from crisis situations.
Community We
ellbeing
Supportt for community du
uring the Nuplex incident - Relief
Centre, representation on Emergency Mana
agement Team, ICC
C
ECC.
and ME
Municip
pal Association of V
Victoria Flood Reco
overy Fund being
utilised to build communityy resilience in time
es of crisis.
Merriwa
a Park project in initial stages (flood recovery
r
funding).
Councill continues its role in supporting peop
ple affected by crisis
situation
ns by liaising with a
appropriate agencies and authorities
s
to provide support to assisst the community in their recovery.
orating with NE Vicctoria Tourism to im
mplement flood
Collabo
recoverry marketing strategy.
Ongoing
CP - Review Counccil’s Drought Respo
onse
3.1.4.1 C
Strategy in conjunction with
h a review of Council’s
response
e to previous emerg
gency events.
ellbeing
Action o
on drought activitie
es in recess due to weather conditions
s. Community We
0/06/2012
30
3.1.4.2 C
CP - Work with eme
ergency services and
a other
agenciess to develop a proa
active approach to planning
for crisis situations.
Community We
ellbeing
The Mu
unicipal Emergencyy Planning Committtee, meeting
resolved to form a sub-ccommittee, with rep
presentation of each
of the emergency service organisations, to look at risks across
nicipality. This sub-committee held an
a initial meeting
the mun
with em
mergency services a
and community de
evelopment
represe
entatives of Counciil to consider how best
b
to involve the
community in emergency planning. Further discussions
aken with the CFA a
and SES on the de
evelopment of Town
underta
Protectiion Plans for prioritty areas of the municipality.
Ongoing
20 January 24, 2012
Rural City
ty of Wangaratta
Strategy
y:
QUARTERLY REPORT
T TO COUNCIL (O
October to Decem
mber 2011)
ACT
TION
PROGR
RESS COMMENTS
S
3.2.1 To ens
sure the provision
n of affordable, ac
ccessible and high
h quality children
n’s services.
DEPART
TMENT
ellbeing
3.2.1.1 C
CP - Pursue the esta
ablishment of Stag
ge 2 of the Application for funding to the State Governm
ment Department of
o Community We
new Child
dren’s Services Ce
entre.
dhood Developmen
nt has been
Educatiion and Early Child
successsful, an allocation o
of $200,000 has be
een provided with a
matchin
ng $200,000 in Cou
uncil's 2010/2011 budget.
b
Works ttendered and targe
eted for completion in December 2011
1.
Work prrogressing to estab
blish kindergarten for 2012 to be
auspice
ed by Council for th
he first 12 months. Twenty enrolmentts
alreadyy received.
Further application for fun
nding being explore
ed to complete this
s
pment. Initial design and costing deve
eloped. This will
develop
provide office and therapyy space for specialist services and toy
librariess.
3.2.1.1 C
CP - Work in partne
ership with other ch
hildren’s
service p
providers to better iintegrate service delivery.
ellbeing
Maintained involvement in
n state, regional an
nd local interagenc
cy Community We
groups..
ga Community Hub
b project provided further
f
opportunity
y
Yarrung
to work closely with this se
ector. A project gro
oup has been
ated to manage the
e operations of the Community Hub
formula
building
gs and to progress Community Renew
wal Project.
Work be
eing undertaken to
o progress complettion of integration at
a
the Wan
ngaratta Children'ss Services Centre.
3.2.1.2 C
CP - Implement a planned approach to
t the
identified
d pre-school service
e needs (Universal Access
Strategy.)
Further planning project b
being undertaken with
w the pre-school
as part of the Unive
ersal Access Imple
ementation.
sector a
Commu
unity consultation ssessions undertake
en to develop a
community steering group
p for the new kinde
ergarten.
y:
Strategy
ellbeing
Community We
CO
OMP DATE
30
0/12/2012
Ongoing
0/12/2012
30
3.2.2 To sup
pport the developm
ment of integrated health provision to maximise the
e health and wellb
being outcomes for
f the community
y.
3.2.2.1 C
CP - Actively particiipate in the Central Hume
Primary C
Care Partnership.
ellbeing
Staff invvolved with the Hume Region review of Municipal Public Community We
Health & Wellbeing Plans.
Staff are active in many groups within the Primary Care
Partnerrship framework, in
ncluding the Healtth Promotions,
Leadersship and Executive
e Group.
An Early Years Education
n Sector Network has developed with
entation from Coun
ncil.
represe
Local H
Health & Wellbeing Partnership - Wan
ngaratta meets
regularlly with broad repre
esentation of servic
ce provision and
agencie
es.
Ongoing
21 January 24, 2012
Rural City
ty of Wangaratta
Strategy
y:
QUARTERLY REPORT
T TO COUNCIL (O
October to Decem
mber 2011)
ACT
TION
PROGR
RESS COMMENTS
S
DEPART
TMENT
CO
OMP DATE
3.2.2 To sup
pport the developm
ment of integrated health provision to maximise the
e health and wellb
being outcomes for
f the community
y.
3.2.2.1 C
CP - Work with the health service sec
ctor in
developin
ng an integrated ap
pproach to service delivery
and healtth planning.
ellbeing
Ongoing planning with the
e Kindergarten secttor continuing which Community We
es for stronger integ
gration across the
has identified opportunitie
hildren's services ssector. These will be addressed
early ch
through
h the development of a new sector ne
etwork by the
education sector of which Council Officers are
a involved.
The local catchment Prima
ary Health Care Co
ommittee is working
togethe
er to identify common issues and tren
nds to be acted
upon.
Youth providers me
eet regularly with Council
C
staff to
Local Y
conside
er issues for action.
A Steerring Committee witth representatives from
f
a number of
Primaryy health and Local Government secto
ors has been
establisshed to oversee the
e development of a service plan for the
Ovens a
and King Commun
nity Health Service.
Work iss being undertaken
n with the Victoria Police
P
to develop a
Commu
unity Safety group, this will provide an
nother avenue for
an integ
grated approach.
Ongoing
3.2.2.2 C
CP - Develop and m
maintain demograp
phic data
to inform the current and fu
uture service needs
s of the
communiity.
ellbeing
Community We
Local H
Health & Wellbeing Committee works collaboratively to
identify current and future
e service needs.
e of profile ID has been
b
provided, nex
xt
Further training in the use
ext census. New version of Remplan
update will be following ne
installed
d along with the tourism module.
Ongoing
ellbeing
Community We
3.2.2.3 C
CP - Maintain involvvement in local and
d regional Continu
ued involvement wiith the Wangaratta
a Youth Service
youth nettworks, in health, e
education and othe
er
Provide
ers Network, North East Regional You
uth Affairs Network
k,
interventiional service areass.
Wangarratta Blue Light Yo
outh Group and Big
g Brothers Big
Sisters.
Ongoing
3.2.2.4 C
CP - In partnership with other agencie
es
develop, implement and evvaluate a Communiity
g Plan (Municipal P
Public Health Plan) and
Wellbeing
review M
Municipal Early Yea
ars Plan.
ellbeing
The Loccal Health & Wellbeing Partnership is
s meeting regularly
y Community We
and is g
guided by the Municcipal Public Health Plan. The Plan has
underta
aken a minor review
w to ensure it is up
p to date.
The Hume Region Departtment of Health is undergoing
u
a review
w
of the status of Municipal Public Health Plan
ns.
30
0/12/2014
22 January 24, 2012
Rural City
ty of Wangaratta
Strategy
y:
ACT
TION
PROGR
RESS COMMENTS
S
DEPART
TMENT
CO
OMP DATE
3.2.2 To sup
pport the developm
ment of integrated health provision to maximise the
e health and wellb
being outcomes for
f the community
y.
3.2.2.5 C
CP - Partner with ne
eighbouring munic
cipalities
and other agencies to advo
ocate for flexible tra
ansport
options to
o support identified
d need.
Strategy
y:
QUARTERLY REPORT
T TO COUNCIL (O
October to Decem
mber 2011)
Councill is a partner in the
e North East Transp
port Connections
project phase three. Continuing with the NE Transport
ort Action Plan.
Connecctions to implement the local Transpo
A pilot o
of a Wangaratta Trravellers Aid projec
ct has been
submitted for funding.
Councill is investigating ho
ow to enhance bus
s utilisation and
effective
eness, initial meetiing has occurred.
Local bus operators appro
oached to extend existing
e
services to
o
wns.
rural tow
Community We
ellbeing
Ongoing
3.2.3 To sup
pport families, old
der people and pe
eople with disabiliities to actively en
ngage and particiipate in their com
mmunity.
Community We
ellbeing
Ongoing
Community We
ellbeing
3.2.3.1 C
CP - Implement Cou
uncil’s Access and Inclusion The Acccess and Inclusion
n Plan was adopted
d at April 2010
Plan.
Councill meeting and implementation has co
ommenced.
Respon
nsibility for actions being monitored across
a
Council. An
n
Access and Inclusion Poliicy has been develloped and public
feedbacck sought prior to cconsideration by Council. Advice
received that the MAV is b
being funded to pro
ovide additional
prove access and inclusion
supportt to Councils to imp
opportu
unities.
Ongoing
ellbeing
Community We
Ongoing
3.2.3.1 C
CP - Actively particiipate in the interag
gency
working g
group reviewing ho
ousing issues in the
e Rural
City of W
Wangaratta.
Housing
g network involvem
ment in Local Healtth and Wellbeing
Committtee where updatess on current needs
s and issues is
discusssed.
CP - Ensure the pro
ovision of services reflects
3.2.3.1 C
the follow
wing principles:
·
ba
ased on individual sstrengths and abilitties;
·
en
ncourages self-mottivation; and
·
en
ncourages indepen
ndence.
All stafff have undertaken strength based tra
aining and are
implementing as part of th
heir daily practise.
and Community Ca
are staff are operatting a self-support
Home a
program
m with clients to ma
aintain their indepe
endence. Funding
g
has bee
en provided throug
gh Sustainability Victoria to implemen
nt
an enerrgy and water savin
ng program with Home and
Commu
unity Care (HACC) clients.
3.2.3.2 C
CP - Explore the cre
eation of more com
mmunity
gardens in the Rural City off Wangaratta.
ellbeing
The Community Pride Committee, Urban Co
ommunity Planning
g Community We
est End residents group are exploring the development of
o
and We
a comm
munity garden in co
onjunction with the West End
Commu
unity rotunda.
30
0/12/2012
23 January 24, 2012
Rural City
ty of Wangaratta
Strategy
y:
QUARTERLY REPORT
T TO COUNCIL (O
October to Decem
mber 2011)
ACT
TION
PROGR
RESS COMMENTS
S
DEPART
TMENT
CO
OMP DATE
3.3.1 To prom
mote and supporrt youth leadershiip by engaging yo
oung people and strengthening
s
the
eir involvement in
n the community.
Community We
ellbeing
Ongoing
3.3.1.2 C
CP - Support the Crreative Youth Com
mmittee to Creative
e Youth ran a succcessful Youth Festival as part of the
design, p
promote and delive
er a program of eve
ents,
2011 Ja
azz Festival. The fe
estival was free forr young people and
d
funded th
hrough the FReeZA
A program.
the wide
er community and feedback of the ev
vent has been very
y
positive
e.
Community We
ellbeing
Ongoing
Youth C
Council have imple
emented a Youth Survey
S
which saw
135 you
ung people take pa
art. The Youth Surv
vey will be used by
y
Youth C
Council to raise issues with Council and
a address issues
s
that were raised.
Community We
ellbeing
Ongoing
3.3.1.1 C
CP - Support the Yo
outh Council to dev
velop
skills in a
areas of leadership
p, civic service, com
mmunity
service a
and advocacy for yo
outh issues.
3.3.1.3 C
CP - Create opportu
unities and encourage
young pe
eople to have inputt into decision mak
king on
issues afffecting them.
Youth C
Councillors have be
een involved in varrious civic service
activitie
es including Blue Liight Discos, Creative Youth Events,
Seniorss Week celebration
ns, Christmas Carn
nival celebrations,
Children
n's Week as well a
as undertaking the 2011 Wangaratta
Youth S
Survey.
24 January 24, 2012
Rural City
ty of Wangaratta
Strategy
y:
QUARTERLY REPORT
T TO COUNCIL (O
October to Decem
mber 2011)
ACT
TION
PROGR
RESS COMMENTS
S
3.4.1 To worrk with education providers to enh
hance opportunitie
es for life-long lea
arning.
DEPART
TMENT
CO
OMP DATE
ellbeing
3.4.1.1 C
CP - Review and up
pdate Council’s Ed
ducation The Education Strategy iss incorporated into the implementation Community We
Strategy to ensure future re
egional education needs
n
are of the C
Community Wellbeiing Plan. Further re
eview will be
met.
underta
aken over the next 2 years.
Ongoing
Community We
ellbeing
3.4.1.1 C
CP - Facilitate invesstigations into niche models Ongoing discussions with the Borinya Board
d (inclusive of
for the prrovision of tertiary e
education.
D representation) in
n response to chan
nging needs of
DEECD
school sstudents.
Meeting
gs continuing with local Steering Com
mmittee, Federal
and Sta
ate Government representation regarrding the
establisshment of the Wangaratta Medical Ce
entre of Excellence
e.
Ongoing
ellbeing
Community We
Ongoing
3.4.1.2 C
CP - Promote the co
oncept of life-long learning
in partnership with educatio
on providers.
Initial diiscussions underta
aken with The Centtre to consider join
nt
training and education opportunities.
U3A and opportunities identified for
Contactt maintained with U
inclusio
on in the development of a positive ag
geing strategy.
25 January 24, 2012
Rural City
ty of Wangaratta
Strategy
y:
QUARTERLY REPORT
T TO COUNCIL (O
October to Decem
mber 2011)
ACT
TION
PROGR
RESS COMMENTS
S
DEPART
TMENT
4.1.1 To imp
plement asset man
nagement system
ms that ensure the
e sustainability off our community assets.
a
CO
OMP DATE
4.1.1.1 C
CP - Refine the man
nagement of Coun
ncil’s
pating in the new assset management best practice
Particip
infrastruccture assets throug
gh participation in the
t
program
m - Regional Assett Management Program.
Management Impro
ovement Strategy developed.
d
Municipa
al Association of Victoria’s STEP prog
gram and Asset M
through improved modelling
g and supporting data.
d
Sustainability
4.1.1.1 C
CP - Develop and im
mplement manage
ement
plans; inccorporating rolling capital works and cyclic
maintena
ance programs for Council’s infrastructure.
Councill is participating in the North East Regional Asset
manage
ement group. Assset management plans are being
develop
ped in conjunction with this group. The
T region is
expectin
ng to have these p
plans ready for imp
plementation in
Decemb
ber 2012.
S
Infrastructure Services
30
0/12/2011
4.1.1.2 C
CP - Review Counccil’s Asset Management
Plan.
Asset M
Management Plan p
priorities, resource
es and timelines
establisshed. Asset Manag
gement Plan template in place.
Sustainability
0/12/2012
30
Infrastructure Services
S
30
0/12/2012
4.1.1.2 C
CP - Develop and im
mplement landscap
pe
The pla
an for the Yarrawon
nga entry is comple
ete and works
d for last quarter off 2011-12 financial year.
strategiess for main roads, kkey township entrances and planned
Council b
buildings.
Ongoing
26 January 24, 2012
Rural City
ty of Wangaratta
Strategy
y:
QUARTERLY REPORT
T TO COUNCIL (O
October to Decem
mber 2011)
ACT
TION
PROGR
RESS COMMENTS
S
4.2.1 To inve
estigate and imple
ement infrastructture opportunities
s that support com
mmunity aspiratio
ons.
DEPART
TMENT
CO
OMP DATE
4.2.1.1 C
CP - Continue to wo
ork with the Transp
port
Connections Project to devvelop a Transport Action
A
d public and community
Plan and address identified
transportt gaps.
ellbeing
Transpo
ort Action Plan com
mmenced impleme
entation of phase 3 Community We
of North
h East Transport C
Connections Group.
Finalisa
ation of project plan
nning for a 'Travel Station'.
Councill Officers currently working through an
a implementation
strategyy developed from tthe recommendatio
ons of the
Wangarratta Transport Stu
udy.
Councill is developing conccepts and strategie
es to improve freigh
ht
movement within and arou
und Wangaratta.
A pilot o
of a Wangaratta Trravellers Aid projec
ct has been
submitted for funding.
ow to enhance bus
s utilisation and
Councill is investigating ho
effective
eness, initial meetiing has occurred.
Local bus operators appro
oached to extend existing
e
services to
o
wns.
rural tow
4.2.1.1 C
CP - Advocate for a
an ultra-fast train se
ervice
between Melbourne and Syydney with a stop in
Wangara
atta.
Incorpo
orated as a regiona
al priority in the Hum
me Strategy for
Sustain
nable Communitiess. An interim step of business transitt
carriage
es is being promoted for immediate action.
a
vices
Executive Serv
4.2.1.1 C
CP - Investigate opportunities to hav
ve
co-ordina
ated and co-located
d depot facilities with
w other
agenciess.
Draft Masterplan presente
ed for comment, wa
aiting for final
presenttation of plan.
Infrastructure Services
S
30
0/12/2011
4.2.1.1 C
CP - Implement the Ovens Riverside Project.
P
A grant application has be
een lodged with the
e Federal
Government and Council should be informed of the outcome
sometim
me in March.
Infrastructure Services
S
30
0/12/2012
Works h
4.2.1.1 C
CP - Plan a networkk of shared paths designed
d
have commenced on the Ovens Rive
erside to
Showgrrounds shared path
h.
to provide
e walking and cycling access betwee
en
townships and community ffacilities.
Infrastructure Services
S
30
0/12/2011
4.2.1.2 C
CP - Implement the Wangaratta Centrral
Activities Area Car Parking Strategy.
Infrastructure Services
S
Ongoing
A reporrt on the progress o
on the implementation of the car
parking strategy was pressented to the Janua
ary 2012 Council
meeting
g.
Ongoing
Ongoing
27 January 24, 2012
Rural City
ty of Wangaratta
Strategy
y:
QUARTERLY REPORT
T TO COUNCIL (O
October to Decem
mber 2011)
ACT
TION
PROGR
RESS COMMENTS
S
DEPART
TMENT
CO
OMP DATE
4.3.1 To und
dertake a strategic
c approach to lan
nd use planning to
o provide balance
ed outcomes for growth,
g
existing la
and use, environm
ment, heritage an
nd
community a
aspirations.
This ma
4.3.1.1 C
CP - Explore / invesstigate a strategic approach
a
atter referred to Wa
angaratta Unlimited Board for input
bruary 2012.
to develo
oping a precinct ma
aximising the bene
efits of the and dettermination by Feb
new Rura
al Industries campu
us including: Equin
ne,
Agrifood, Livestock, Racing
g, Accommodation
Executive Serv
vices
S
4.3.1.1 C
CP - Develop option
ns for overcoming drainage Under tthe North East Gre
eenhouse Alliance project ‘Adapting to
o Infrastructure Services
deficienccies within the urba
an areas.
a low w
water future’ funding
g has been made available
a
for a case
e
study tittled Water Sensitivve Urban Design (W
WSUD) Options for
South W
Wangaratta area w
which aims to develop concepts for
drainag
ge of this area that will achieve WSUD
D best practice
objectivves and targets.
30
0/12/2011
0/12/2011
30
4.3.1.1 C
CP - Implement the Rural Land Strate
egy.
Public cconsultation processs in progress.
Councill has appointed Ag
gricultural Agribusin
ness Advisory
Committtee to assist in pro
oviding advice for refinement
r
of draft
strategyy.
Propose
ed timetable is to h
have 2nd draft of strategy considered
d
at January, 2012 meeting of Council.
Sustainability
30
0/12/2012
4.3.1.2 C
CP - Develop an ovverall housing/popu
ulation
strategy tto include appropriiate zoning, density
y and
service p
provision to accomm
modate population
n growth
within Wa
angaratta and surrrounding townships
s.
Sustainability
ment of Planning a
and Community De
evelopment have
Departm
commenced its Urban Gro
owth Planning project for Wangaratta
a.
A current situation deman
nd and supply analy
ysis and provide
figures for land supply forecast.
quire report from DP
PCD before further work can continue
Still req
on this project.
30
0/12/2012
4.3.1.3 C
CP - Implement the outcomes of the Planning
Scheme Review to update the Municipal Strategic
nt to reflect the Rural City of Wangaratta 2030
Statemen
Commun
nity Vision.
Councill Plan will be review
wed in first half of 2013
2
which may
result in
n other amendmen
nts to MSS. As a result
r
time
conside
eration is being given to other means of updating MSS
with the
e recommendationss of the review suc
ch as part of other
strategic planning projectss.
Sustainability
30
0/06/2013
4.3.1.4 C
CP - As part of the ccommunity plannin
ng
process, develop structure plans for individua
al
townships.
Sustainability
Priority townships for structure planning will be Milawa, Oxley
and Gle
enrowan due to the
e towns being serviced with sewerage
e
and the
e resultant demand
d for land and subdivision that may
occur.
30
0/12/2011
u
this work
k
Project plans currently being developed to undertake
with an aim to complete p
project by 31 Augus
st, 2012
28 January 24, 2012
Rural City
ty of Wangaratta
Strategy
y:
QUARTERLY REPORT
T TO COUNCIL (O
October to Decem
mber 2011)
ACT
TION
PROGR
RESS COMMENTS
S
DEPART
TMENT
CO
OMP DATE
4.3.1 To und
dertake a strategic
c approach to lan
nd use planning to
o provide balance
ed outcomes for growth,
g
existing la
and use, environm
ment, heritage an
nd
community a
aspirations.
ed.
4.3.1.5 C
CP - Undertake a place-based approa
ach to the Project not yet commence
developm
ment of the Wangaratta Central Activities Area
incorpora
ating:
· Review of existing plannin
ng arrangements
· Review the Wangaratta Urban Design Framework,
ns River / Faithfull S
Street Masterplan and the
the Oven
Ovens River / Faithfull Street Precinct Structu
ure Plan,
a Central Activities Area
to enhance the Wangaratta
including landscaping, treesscaping, street furn
niture and
public artt.
Sustainability
30
0/06/2013
Sustainability
30
0/12/2011
4.3.1.7 C
CP - Investigate the
e impacts of climate
e change This isssue will be addresssed in each strategic planning projectt Sustainability
on land u
use and how the ou
utcomes may be
underta
aken. This may be
e a more pragmatic
c approach rather
incorpora
ated into the Planning Scheme.
than a sstandalone project which due to envisaged State and
Federall policy changes may be out of date before such a projec
ct
is imple
emented.
30
0/12/2011
Sustainability
30
0/12/2011
4.3.1.6 C
CP - Examine the flexibility of the Plan
nning
Scheme to accommodate n
neighbourhood serrvicing
facilities iin an as of right ca
apacity.
4.3.1.8 C
CP - Evaluate the in
ntroduction of Deve
eloper
Contributtion Plans for infrasstructure across th
he Rural
City of W
Wangaratta.
Report presented to Coun
ncil forum in Novem
mber, 2012.
Residen
ntial 1 zone provides flexibility for a range of
neighbo
ourhood business u
uses subject to a permit
p
which is
conside
ered appropriate, ra
ather than as of rig
ght.
In Houssing and Population
n Strategy can con
nsider at what
growth level such servicess are required and have discussions
ers about this but not
n necessary to
with devvelopers/subdivide
provide a specific businesss zoning.
This pro
oject has not comm
menced. State rev
view occurring into
o
role and
d effectiveness of D
Developer Contribu
ution Plans and
options available. Once this review is finalised it then that
Councill can consider its o
options.
29 January 24, 2012
Rural City
ty of Wangaratta
Strategy
y:
QUARTERLY REPORT
T TO COUNCIL (O
October to Decem
mber 2011)
ACT
TION
PROGR
RESS COMMENTS
S
DEPART
TMENT
CO
OMP DATE
5.1.1 To defiine and market th
he liveability and llifestyle attributes
s of the Rural City
y of Wangaratta as
a a preferred loca
ation to live, work
k and invest.
5.1.1.1 C
CP - Facilitate the p
provision of settlem
ment
support ffor new residents.
"New R
Resident's Guide" d
developed, printed and published on
Councill's website. Printe
ed copies available
e from Customer
Service
e and Visitor Inform
mation Centre.
Community We
ellbeing
30
0/06/2013
5.1.1.1 C
CP - Utilise the findings of the 2009 Regional
R
Cities Livveability and Lifestyyle report to inform
m
marketing
g activities.
Findings inform all marketting activities.
Executive Serv
vices
30
0/12/2014
5.1.1.1 C
CP - Advocate with relevant authoritie
es for:
·
wa
ater security and quality for Wangara
atta; and
·
retticulation of water a
and sewerage prov
vision in
rural town
nships.
North E
East Water has agrreed to enter into th
he funding
arrange
ement with DSE forr the Moyhu Waste
e Water project in
Councill’s place and are in
n negotiation with DSE
D
over the terms
s
and con
nditions of the agre
eement.
Infrastructure Services
S
5.1.1.2 C
CP - Maintain an acctive involvement in
n the
“Make It Happen in Provinccial Victoria” marke
eting
initiativess.
Plannin
ng underway for the
e Regional Living Expo
E
in Melbourne
May 2012
vices
Executive Serv
0/06/2013
30
5.1.1.3 C
CP - Leverage med
dia marketing opportunities
from land
dmark developmen
nts i.e. Wangaratta
Performin
ng Arts Centre, Ovvens Riverside Precinct,
Technica
al Education Centre
e and National Cen
ntre for
Equine E
Education.
Ongoing media opportunitties being progress
sed. MICE
marketing strategy underw
way to continue ma
arketing
opportu
unities with Wangaratta Performing Arts
A Centre.
Executive Serv
vices
30
0/06/2013
Strategy
y:
Ongoing
5.1.2 To rein
nvigorate the inne
er urban areas of Wangaratta to ma
aximize their pote
ential.
5.1.2.1 C
CP - Develop and re
efine the concept of
o
neighbou
urhood renewal for the “East End” pre
ecinct
focusing on: Aquatic; Educa
ation; Recreation;
Employm
ment; Infrastructurre; Community serv
vices;
and Public Amenity
ellbeing
d. Community We
Project proposal for discussion with State Government drafted
nuing with State Government
Further discussions contin
ments. Local Comm
munity group being
g established which
h
departm
will provvide input into this development.
Feasibility study commenced for South Wan
ngaratta including
e and Avian Park.
the old Ovens College site
30
0/06/2013
CP - Develop a Massterplan for the an East-end Consulttants engaged and
d conceptual plan has
h been produced
d
5.1.2.1 C
as a ressult of stakeholder consultation
urban ren
newal program to rrevitalise of the Ne
ewman
Street an
nd Vincent Road prrecinct incorporatin
ng:
· The fo
ormer Ovens Colleg
ge site;
· Newm
man Street, includin
ng Avian Park; and
nt Road, including the former landfill site.
s
· Vincen
Executive Serv
vices
0/12/2012
30
5.1.2.2 C
CP - Investigate devvelopmental opporttunities of Ongoing
larger site
es in the Central A
Activities Area.
Executive Serv
vices
30
0/12/2012
30 January 24, 2012
Rural City
ty of Wangaratta
Strategy
y:
QUARTERLY REPORT
T TO COUNCIL (O
October to Decem
mber 2011)
ACT
TION
PROGR
RESS COMMENTS
S
DEPART
TMENT
CO
OMP DATE
5.2.1 To prom
mote a strong and vibrant busines
ss community con
nsisting of a diverse range of small, medium and la
arge enterprises capitalizing
c
on the
e key
competitive strengths of our region.
vices
30
0/12/2011
Strategic workshops to review the Economic
5.2.1.1 C
CP - Review the 2008-2011 Wangaratta
c Development and
d Executive Serv
Tourism
m Strategies being held in January 20
012
Unlimited
d Economic Develo
opment Strategy an
nd
develop a new strategy.
5.2.2 In conjjunction with relevant stakeholders
s, to realise the sustainable agricu
ultural production
n potential of the Ovens
O
and King Valleys
V
region as a future
Strategy
y:
food bowl.
5.2.2.1 C
CP - Advocate to prreserve the currentt
protection
n of the Ovens and
d King River system
ms with
respect to
o the trading of wa
ater.
Revised
d MDBP preservess the current protec
ction of the Ovens
and Kin
ng River systems trrading practices
Executive Serv
vices
Ongoing
5.2.2.2 C
CP - Utilise the findings of the Ovens Aquifer
evelop and promotte a
Water Se
ecurity Project to de
business case for the estab
blishment of a susttainable
agriculturre industry in the O
Ovens and King Va
alleys.
Ongoing
Executive Serv
vices
30
0/12/2012
5.2.2.3 C
CP - Facilitate the e
establishment of a market
driven, su
upply chain model to support an inno
ovative
and susta
ainable agricultural sector within the Ovens
and King Valley’s region.
vices
Growerrs have visited with the Yarra Valley Growers
G
Association Executive Serv
and had
d an industry visit tto Caboolture to inv
vestigate other
models for supply chain in
ntegration.
0/12/2011
30
vices
Executive Serv
30
0/06/2013
Berry growers study tour tto Caboolture and Bundaberg to
further iinvestigate the pottential for the Alpine Valleys region
was succcessful.
5.2.3 To sup
pport and encoura
age a sustainable
e, innovative and rresilient tourism sector.
s
CP - Pursue the opp
portunities identifie
ed in the
5.2.2.4 C
Alpine Va
alleys Agrifood pro
oject.
Strategy
y:
31 January 24, 2012
Rural City
ty of Wangaratta
Strategy
y:
QUARTERLY REPORT
T TO COUNCIL (O
October to Decem
mber 2011)
ACT
TION
PROGR
RESS COMMENTS
S
5.2.3 To sup
pport and encoura
age a sustainable
e, innovative and rresilient tourism sector.
s
5.2.3.1 C
CP - Build on the ke
ey brand strengths of Food
and Wine
e, Cycling, Ned Kelly and Jazz by
implemen
nting the Yarra Vallley – High Country
y Touring
Route Strategic Plan which
h links through to th
he King
Valley.
DEPART
TMENT
Executive Serv
vices
North E
East Valleys Food a
and Wine 3 year sttrategic plan and
regiona
al plan now comple
ete. New North Eas
st Victoria Tourism
Board Inc. CEO has been
n appointed. North East Valley's Food
d
ne will dissolve and
d the portfolio of Food and Wine shall
and Win
be incorporated into the n
new RTB.
CO
OMP DATE
30
0/06/2013
The ma
anagement of the Y
Yarra Valley to High Country touring
route ha
as been incorporatted into the scope of works of the new
w
RTB. To
ourism Officer rem
mains on this comm
mittee.
A re-sco
oping study for a w
world class Interpre
etive Centre in
Glenrow
wan to feature the Ned Kelly Gang ha
as secured funding
g.
Consulttants have been ap
ppointed to begin th
he re-scoping study
y.
Further development of th
he Ned Kelly Tourin
ng Route has also
begun.
with journalists is co
ontinuing following the launch of King
g
Work w
Valley P
Prosecco Road in M
Melbourne during early November
2011.
5.2.3.1 C
CP - Participate in tthe North East Reg
gional
Tourism Board.
vices
Board h
has adopted a strattegic plan and has secured funding fo
or Executive Serv
a gap a
analysis of the regio
on.
30
0/12/2011
5.2.3.2 C
CP - Build on the ke
ey brand strengths of Food
and Wine
e, Cycling, Ned Kelly and Jazz by re--scoping
the Ned K
Kelly Interpretive C
Centre proposal;
vices
Executive Serv
A brief tto undertake the re
escoping of the orig
ginal Interpretive
Centre Proposal has been
n prepared. Funding has been secured
h Tourism Victoria a
and RDA Hume. Consultants
C
have
through
been ap
ppointed to begin w
works on the re-sco
ope.
0/12/2012
30
5.2.3.3 C
CP - Build on the ke
ey brand strengths of Food Draft Cyycle Tourism Strategy is complete. A committee is
being fo
ormed to finalise th
he new strategy.
and Wine
e, Cycling, Ned Kelly and Jazz by
implemen
nting the key action
ns of the Cycle Tourism
Strategy in collaboration witth Alpine and Indig
go Shires.
vices
Executive Serv
0/06/2013
30
5.2.3.4 C
CP - Build on the ke
ey brand strengths of Food Develop
pment Officer and VIC Coordinator attend
a
fortnightly
and Wine
e, Cycling, Ned Kelly and Jazz by collaborating Jazz Su
ub Committee Mee
etings to provide input, direction and
with the interim Jazz Festiva
al Board to ensure longevity supportt.
and contiinued success of th
he Event.
Executive Serv
vices
0/12/2012
30
32 January 24, 2012
Rural City
ty of Wangaratta
Strategy
y:
QUARTERLY REPORT
T TO COUNCIL (O
October to Decem
mber 2011)
ACT
TION
PROGR
RESS COMMENTS
S
5.2.3 To sup
pport and encoura
age a sustainable
e, innovative and rresilient tourism sector.
s
DEPART
TMENT
CO
OMP DATE
Executive Serv
vices
30
0/06/2013
vices
5.2.3.6 C
CP - Develop enviro
onmental tourism
Looking
g to work with all LT
TAs including Warrby Range Network
k Executive Serv
opportunities including the W
Warby Range / Ovens River for Succcess to develop Sttrategic Plans with measurable
National Park.
outcomes for each LTA which will be aligned
d with the Rural Citty
garatta Tourism Sttrategic Plan and th
he new RTB
of Wang
Strategic Plan. This will occcur during 2012/2
2013.
0/06/2013
30
5.2.3.7 C
CP - Renew the Kin
ng Valley Masterpla
an.
vices
uitted. Further work of Cheshunt to be Executive Serv
Project funding grant acqu
aken
underta
0/12/2011
30
5.2.3.8 C
CP - Implement the 2010-2013 Rural City of
Wangara
atta Tourism Industtry Strategic Plan.
Implementation is ongoing
g.
vices
Executive Serv
0/06/2013
30
5.2.3.5 C
CP - Facilitate indusstry standard e-com
mmerce
uptake byy tourism operatorss
Ongoing through encoura
aging uptake of Boo
okeasy online
ations system opera
ated from the Wan
ngaratta Visitor
reserva
Informa
ation Centre. Severral new customisattions have been
completted to the site with the aim of making
g the site more
user-frie
endly for operatorss. Further system upgrades
u
will be
underta
aken to Bookeasy in 2011/2012. VIC Staff are hosting a
Regiona
al Bookeasy Worksshop with other reg
gional VICs to look
k
at furthe
er ways to increase
e e-commerce uptake.
A review
w of the strategic p
plan will be undertaken during Feb/Ma
ar
2012.
Strategy
y:
5.2.4 To prep
pare for a carbon
n constrained economy through de
eveloping greenho
ouse friendly eco
onomic initiatives and capitalising on related opporttunities.
5.2.4.1 C
CP - Identify and e
evaluate options fo
or
renewablle energy generatio
on within the Rural City of
Wangara
atta.
No activvity this quarter
vices
Executive Serv
0/12/2012
30
5.2.4.2 C
CP - Advocate for a
and identify financia
al
incentives to allow businessses to develop ren
newable
energy ca
apacity.
North E
East Solar Project launched.
Executive Serv
vices
Ongoing
Executive Serv
vices
30
0/06/2013
Executive Serv
vices
Ongoing
Executive Serv
vices
Ongoing
Project on hold due to em
5.2.4.3 C
CP - Investigate, in
n collaboration with
h other
mphasis on Alpine Valleys
V
Agrifood
initiative
e.
agenciess, impacts and alterrnative options for achieving
a
carbon neutral agriculture.
Strategy
y:
5.2.5 To enh
hance the sustaina
ability of the Wan
ngaratta workforc
ce.
5.2.5.1 C
CP - Deliver the Glo
obal Skills for Prov
vincial
Victoria P
Project.
Global S
Skills for Provincia
al Victoria complete
ed and acquitted.
Strategyy implemented.
5.2.5.2 C
CP - Participate in tthe North East Indu
ustry
Workforcce Development Stteering Group to prroduce a
strategy d
document addresssing attraction and retention
33 January 24, 2012
Rural City
ty of Wangaratta
Strategy
y:
QUARTERLY REPORT
T TO COUNCIL (O
October to Decem
mber 2011)
ACT
TION
PROGR
RESS COMMENTS
S
5.2.5 To enh
hance the sustaina
ability of the Wan
ngaratta workforc
ce.
DEPART
TMENT
5.2.5.3 C
CP - Ensure all loccal initiatives suppo
orting
workforce
e sustainability are
e consistent with th
he Hume
Strategy for Sustainable Co
ommunities.
Executive Serv
vices
Funding
g for Hume Region
n Workforce Develo
opment Network
has bee
en gained. An envvironmental scan across
a
Hume region
to explo
ore workforce deve
elopment weaknesses.
5.2.5.4 C
CP - Capitalise on
n the findings of the
e
feasibilityy study to develop a Centre for Medic
cal
Excellencce.
In progrress
Executive Serv
vices
CO
OMP DATE
Ongoing
30
0/12/2012
34 January 24, 2012
Rural City
ty of Wangaratta
Strategy
y:
QUARTERLY REPORT
T TO COUNCIL (O
October to Decem
mber 2011)
ACT
TION
PROGR
RESS COMMENTS
S
5.3.1 To furtther progress Wan
ngaratta as the le
eading retail and s
service centre in North
N
East Victorria.
DEPART
TMENT
CO
OMP DATE
mmenced
5.3.1.1 C
CP - Implement keyy actions of the 200
08 Retail Co-storre development com
Audit and
d Development Pla
an including realisin
ng the
potential of a regional bulkyy goods/home mak
ker centre
to clusterr around Tone Roa
ad or Parfitt Road precincts.
p
vices
Executive Serv
30
0/06/2013
Final logo and templates n
now developed
5.3.1.2 C
CP - In conjunction
n with key stakeho
olders
continue to consider a colle
ective marketing strategy
ess of Wangaratta within
w
the
that creattes brand awarene
retail catcchment.
Executive Serv
vices
0/12/2011
30
35 January 24, 2012
Rural City
ty of Wangaratta
Strategy
y:
QUARTERLY REPORT
T TO COUNCIL (O
October to Decem
mber 2011)
ACT
TION
6.1.1 To resp
ponsibly manage the local environ
nment.
PROGR
RESS COMMENTS
S
DEPART
TMENT
CO
OMP DATE
6.1.1.1 C
CP - Encourage the
e development of th
he
Regional Catchment Strate
egy and link to Cou
uncil
programss.
State g
guidelines for the R
Regional Catchmen
nt Strategy were
develop
ped in May 2011. T
The North East Cattchment
Manage
ement Authority is developing a detailed framework for
the nexxt Regional Catchm
ment Strategy.
Sustainability
30
0/06/2013
6.1.1.1 C
CP - Develop local w
wastewater solutio
ons that
control po
ollution in small tow
wns.
North E
East Water has agrreed to enter into th
he funding
arrange
ement with DSE forr the Moyhu Waste
e Water project in
Councill’s place and are in
n negotiation with DSE
D
over the terms
s
and con
nditions of the agre
eement.
Infrastructure Services
S
30
0/06/2013
6.1.1.2 C
CP - Reduce stormw
water and waste water
w
pollution impact from urban
n areas on waterwa
ays.
ubdivisions include Water Sensitive Urban
U
Design to
New su
control stormwater pollutio
on within limits.
Sustainability
30
0/12/2012
6.1.1.2 C
CP - Continue to ma
aintain, develop an
nd link
treescape
es in streets, parkss and waterways in
n urban
areas.
S
Infrastructure Services
Tree ma
aintenance and po
owerline clearance programmes are
continuing according to pllan. Plans and worrks to address
a progressing in
replacement needs on strreets and in parks are
h the budget.
line with
Facilitie
es arboricultural tea
am and bush regen
neration team
activelyy engaged in tree p
planting and weed control.
Tree ma
aintenance on pow
wer lines are contin
nuing with the auditt
on both
h east and west secctor completed. Pruning works for the
e
east secctor are also complete with works und
der way for the wes
st
sector.
Replace
ement planting with
hin residential streets section 3a now
w
complette Follow up mainttenance will now co
ontinue throughoutt
summer
CP - Implement guid
delines and actions
s from the
6.1.1.3 C
Roadside
e Conservation Ma
anagement Strateg
gy in
Council o
operations and asssist community to work
w
to
these guiidelines.
Draft Ro
oadside Conservattion Management Plan on hold
pending
g greater certainty around future arra
angement for Fire
protection and roadside pest plant and anim
mal control.
ed by Agriculture and Agribusiness
Draft plan to be considere
Advisorry Committee when
n available.
Sustainability
6.1.1.3 C
CP - Develop and im
mplement actions that
t
identify a
and protect trees th
hat have environme
ental,
heritage and aesthetic values.
An asse
essment of street ttrees within the Wa
angaratta Urban
area is being undertaken.
Infrastructure Services
S
0/12/2011
30
6.1.1.4 C
CP - Review Counccil’s Stormwater
Managem
ment Plan and implement the
recomme
endations.
Not yet commenced.
Sustainability
30
0/12/2011
6.1.1.4 C
CP - Continue and e
enhance programs
s in litter
control an
nd dumping preven
ntion.
This acttion is now part of the environment portfolio
p
S
Infrastructure Services
Ongoing
Ongoing
Ongoing
36 January 24, 2012
Rural City
ty of Wangaratta
Strategy
y:
ACT
TION
6.1.1 To resp
ponsibly manage the local environ
nment.
QUARTERLY REPORT
T TO COUNCIL (O
October to Decem
mber 2011)
PROGR
RESS COMMENTS
S
DEPART
TMENT
New fire
6.1.1.5 C
CP - Implement worrks and strategies resourced
r
ewood permit syste
em has been imple
emented for RCOW
W Sustainability
by Counccil in the North Easst Victorian Firewoo
od
to issue
e permits, for both roadside collection
n and firewood
Strategy.
depots. Currently working on a process for rural agents to issue
firewood
d permits on behalf of RCOW*
CO
OMP DATE
Ongoing
37 January 24, 2012
Rural City
ty of Wangaratta
Strategy
y:
QUARTERLY REPORT
T TO COUNCIL (O
October to Decem
mber 2011)
ACT
TION
PROGR
RESS COMMENTS
S
DEPART
TMENT
CO
OMP DATE
6.2.1 To enh
hance community
y understanding o
of conservation va
alues and provide
e opportunities to
o experience and contribute
c
to the environment.
6.2.1.1 C
CP - Work with Parkks Victoria to enha
ance
access to
o facilities and expe
eriences in the Wa
arby
Ranges/L
Lower Ovens Natio
onal Park.
Community We
ellbeing
Discusssions continue with
h Parks Victoria and other land
manage
ement agencies ass part of the develo
opment of the Open
n
Space S
Strategy and imple
ementing the National Park.
6.2.1.1 C
CP - Improve accesss to and enjoymen
nt of
Council’ss bushland and watterway reserves th
hrough
informatio
on, education and improved infrastru
ucture.
Sustainability
ast quarter of 2011, the Environment unit staff
In the la
- joined with Landcare at T
The Wangaratta Show to provide a
ent
display on Council's workss in the environme
ed with a stormwatter demonstration during Waterweek
k
- assiste
- conducted 'My Backyard
d Rules' sustainability expo with TAFE
E,
attractin
ng more than 500 p
people to engage with
w sustainability
displayss by local agenciess and businesses
- held a waste/recycling education session and
a landfill tour
during R
Recycling Week
- held a nature walk for 2 local cub groups
Ongoing
6.2.1.2 C
CP - Promote susta
ainability and conse
ervation
through C
Council education a
and public events such as
Clean Up
p Australia Day and
d the like.
Sustainability
My Bacckyard Rules - Susttainable Living Exp
po was held on
Saturda
ay 15 October, attracting over 500 pe
eople. The expo
provided local residents w
with the opportunity
y to engage with
gencies and supplie
ers on sustainable living practises. On
local ag
the 8th of November a "Trravelling Waste Se
eminar" was held as
part of N
National Recycling
g Week. The sessio
on commenced with
a bus to
our of Bowser Land
dfill, allowing comm
munity members to
o
see the importance of red
ducing waste first hand.
Ongoing
Sustainability
Ongoing
6.2.1.3 C
CP - Support comm
munity based climatte change The Wa
angaratta Sustaina
ability Network (WS
SN), Restore our
and susta
ainability initiativess.
Waterw
ways (ROW) and L
Landcare have bee
en assisted. Staff
assisted
d ROW with a com
mmunity event in Waterweek
W
and
respond
ded to dumping isssues raised by ROW
W on the One Mile
e
Creek..
0/12/2012
30
38 January 24, 2012
Rural City
ty of Wangaratta
Strategy
y:
QUARTERLY REPORT
T TO COUNCIL (O
October to Decem
mber 2011)
ACT
TION
PROGR
RESS COMMENTS
S
DEPART
TMENT
6.3.1 To redu
uce impact of Cou
uncil’s activities a
and provide leade
ership in sustaina
ability by demons
strating best prac
ctice.
CO
OMP DATE
6.3.1.1 C
CP - Develop a bussiness case for the
conversio
on of street lights to energy efficient lights
l
d pending outcome
e of Municipal Asso
ociation of Victoria
On hold
project.
Sustainability
0/12/2011
30
6.3.1.1 C
CP - Develop an inttegrated Natural
Environm
ment Strategy which includes:
•
curre
ent Council Plans a
and Planning provisions;
•
prote
ection for threatene
ed remnant native
vegetatio
on; and
•
resto
oration of habitat va
alues for wildlife on
n
bushland
d reserves and watterway reserves ma
anaged
by Counccil through control of pest plants and animals
A frame
ework for this suite of Strategies has been developed.
Sustainability
30
0/06/2013
6.3.1.1 C
CP - Explore opporttunities for the intro
oduction
of alterna
ative fuels to Council’s fleet.
S
Work ha
as been undertake
en by Council’s dep
pot workshop staff in Infrastructure Services
reducing the amount of fu
uel used by Council’s Garbage truck
c
will save
fleet. It is estimated that the impact of the changes
quivalent to 43.2
16,000 litres of diesel per annum which is eq
tonnes of CO2.
6.3.1.1 C
CP - Develop a Corrporate Sustainabillity
Strategy to achieve Council targets in greenhouse gas
er use reduction an
nd thereby promote
e
and wate
environm
mental sustainabilityy in all operational areas of
Council.
Definitio
on, principles and iindicators all adoptted by Council.
Sustain
nability section of A
Annual Report repo
orted on
sustaina
ability indicators
Financial payments system being modified to
t collect details off
energy purchases at pointt of purchase
Actions for work unit imple
ementation being developed
d
Sustainability
0/06/2012
30
6.3.1.2 C
CP - Assist the com
mmunity to adapt to
o
challenge
es such as, climate
e change and resource
constrain
nts, including peak oil, through the
developm
ment of a strategy tto achieve a sustaiinable
living cultture.
The Eco
oliving Centre at th
he Barr Reserve wa
as opened for fourr
drop-in sessions for the public. The EcoLivin
ng education trailerr
was dessigned and fabrica
ation commenced.
Sustainability
30
0/06/2013
30
0/12/2011
39 January 24, 2012
Rural City
ty of Wangaratta
Strategy
y:
QUARTERLY REPORT
T TO COUNCIL (O
October to Decem
mber 2011)
ACT
TION
PROGR
RESS COMMENTS
S
DEPART
TMENT
6.4.1 To dev
velop initiatives fo
or the community
y to reduce resourrce use and waste
e to achieve susta
ainable living.
CO
OMP DATE
6.4.1.1 C
CP - Provide inform
mation and active education
on sustaiinable building devvelopment, waste disposal,
d
energy and water use within the community.
Ecolivin
ng Centre Sustaina
able Communities project
p
has
commenced :
es have been installed within the
-Educattional display boxe
Wangarratta Sports and Aquatic Centre. Disp
plays are rotated
monthlyy to demonstrate household sustaina
ability.
Sustainability
6.4.1.1 C
CP - Identify opporttunities to reduce waste
w
to
landfill including: Organic W
Waste; Electronic Waste
W
aste management sstrategy under pre
eparation should
The Wa
identify further opportunities for the reduction of waste going to
o
landfill.
S
Infrastructure Services
30
0/12/2011
6.4.1.2 C
Work ha
CP - Develop a wasste management sttrategy
as commenced on
n the development of a Waste
ement strategy for the Rural City of Wangaratta.
W
that provides for short term waste manageme
ent issues Manage
owser landfill and cclear direction for waste
w
at the Bo
managem
ment for the next 30 years.
Infrastructure Services
S
30
0/06/2013
6.4.1.3 C
CP - Engage with re
egional authorities and
place North East Victoria Regional
Discusssions have taken p
neighbou
uring Councils to de
evelop a regional approach
a
Waste rrepresentatives du
uring work on the development of
to waste management to co
omplement Counciil’s Waste Councill’s waste managem
ment strategy.
Infrastructure Services
S
30
0/06/2013
Waste
e Management Stra
ategy is currently under
u
developmentt
CP - Work with the Environment Prote
ection
6.4.1.4 C
Authorityy in the implementa
ation of Council’s Waste
W
Managem
ment Strategy.
Strategy
y:
6.4.2 Assis
st the community to proactively res
spond to climate change
Infrastructure Services
S
Ongoing
Community We
ellbeing
6.4.2.1 C
CP - Advocate for a
appropriate supportt and
A numb
ber of community a
activities have been
n held which
response
e to the social need
ds related to climate
e change. encoura
aged people to talkk about their needs
s. Council has
been pa
arty to a communitty consultative project on climate
change called Deliberative
e Democracy. This
s process involved a
munity to provide in
nput to Council's
broad ssection of the comm
Environ
nment Strategy and
d Framework.
Impactss of floods and othe
er emergencies su
upported through
recoverry activities.
Work be
eing undertaken w
with the Early Years
s Education
providers to consider issu
ues of impact on ch
hildren.
6.4.2.1 C
CP - Investigate opttions to maximise
environm
mentally sustainable
e design for new and retro
fitted resiidential, industrial a
and commercial
developm
ments.
Environ
nment and Planning
g Units are liaising with Moreland
Energy Foundation (MEFL
L) to provide local case studies of a
ability assessmentt tool during the de
esign of commercia
al
sustaina
and ressidential developme
ents. MEFL finishe
ed these case
studies and ran a worksho
op for planning, bu
uilding environmentt
gineering staff on ssustainable design principles for
and eng
building
gs.
Sustainability
Ongoing
0/12/2012
30
30
0/06/2013
40 January 24, 2012
Rural City
ty of Wangaratta
Strategy
y:
QUARTERLY REPORT
T TO COUNCIL (O
October to Decem
mber 2011)
ACT
TION
PROGR
RESS COMMENTS
S
6.4.2 Assis
st the community to proactively res
spond to climate change
DEPART
TMENT
6.4.2.1 C
CP - Advocate to increase sustainable
e
standardss in state planning and building proviisions.
Sustainability
g in a range of forums in which the
Discusssions are occurring
organisation is represente
ed and such views can be put forward
d.
6.4.2.2 C
CP - Review the pro
ogress towards ach
hieving
the outco
omes of the Deliberative Democracy Process
with resu
ults reported to the Citizens’ Jury.
No furth
her work this quarter
Sustainability
CO
OMP DATE
Ongoing
30
0/12/2012
41 January 24, 2012
Rural City
ty of Wangaratta
Strategy
y:
QUARTERLY REPORT
T TO COUNCIL (O
October to Decem
mber 2011)
ACT
TION
PROGR
RESS COMMENTS
S
DEPART
TMENT
CO
OMP DATE
7.1.1 To und
dertake a planned
d approach to maiintaining and imp
proving quality and accessible recrreation and sportiing facilities and programs.
p
7.1.1.1 C
CP - Implement the Wangaratta Recre
eation and Traffic m
management workks commenced including plans to
Parklands Precinct Masterp
plan and strategies
s to
reconsttruct Golf Links Lan
ne and Evans Street intersection.
achieve tthe priority recomm
owgrounds redeve
mendations.
Works p
progressing on Sho
elopment.
Community We
ellbeing
30
0/12/2012
7.1.1.2 C
CP - Review Counccil’s Cycling to the
Future - B
Bicycle Path Strate
egy.
The Op
pen Space Strategyy and Recreation Strategy
S
are
currentlly being developed
d. The review of Co
ouncil's cycling
strategyy will be undertake
en in consideration of these two
strategies once they are ccompleted.
Community We
ellbeing
30
0/12/2012
7.1.1.3 C
CP - Complete the rredevelopment of the
t
Wangara
atta Showgrounds ffor broad community use
and as an
n elite facility for fo
ootball.
Working
g with Showground
ds Management Committee to
determiine best means of managing the upgraded facilities.
Works ccommenced on Sh
howgrounds Comm
munity & Football
Facility .
upgrade and lightt towers complete.
Power u
Civil Wo
orks with the sealin
ng of the access ro
oads and
embankkment improvemen
nt finalised.
Constru
uction of new paviliion progressing.
Surroun
nds being maintain
ned as works progrress.
Facilitie
es & open spaces tteams providing su
upport to
redevelopment.
Community We
ellbeing
30
0/12/2011
7.1.1.4 C
CP - Develop an Op
pen Space Strateg
gy and
review th
he Recreation Strattegy.
Sykes C
Consulting underta
aking the developm
ment of Council's
Recreattion and Open Spa
ace Strategies. Draft Strategies
progresssing.
Community We
ellbeing
0/12/2011
30
42 January 24, 2012
Rural City
ty of Wangaratta
Strategy
y:
QUARTERLY REPORT
T TO COUNCIL (O
October to Decem
mber 2011)
ACT
TION
PROGR
RESS COMMENTS
S
DEPART
TMENT
CO
OMP DATE
7.2.1 To enc
courage the greate
er use of recreatio
on facilities inclu
uding formal sportts facilities, open spaces, shared paths
p
and aquatic
c centres.
7.2.1.1 C
CP - Encourage colllaborative use of co
ommunity Conside
ered in the develop
pment of the Open Space/Recreation
n
and educcation facilities.
Strategyy.
Working
g with Showground
ds Committee of Management
M
to
determiine best means of managing the upgraded facilities.
Yarrung
ga Community Hub
b Project provides a newly built
Departm
ment of Education and Early Childhood Development
building
g for broad community service use.
The Department of Educa
ation and Early Childhood
pment is working o
on a suitable protoc
col for the shared
Develop
use of e
education facilities.
Community We
ellbeing
Ongoing
7.2.1.1 C
CP - Resolve the fu
uture of a regional
playgroun
nd.
Concep
pt of a Regional Pla
ayground being considered as part of
the drafft Aquatic Strategyy. The development of a concept
design is being worked on
n to discuss with Council.
C
Community We
ellbeing
30
0/12/2011
7.2.1.1 C
CP - Complete a co
ontinuous shared path
p
from
the Wang
garatta central bussiness district to the
e
Wangara
atta Recreations Pa
arklands along the Ovens
River.
Works h
have commenced on the Ovens Rive
erside to
Showgrrounds shared path
h.
Infrastructure Services
S
30
0/12/2012
CP - Assist with the
e development of sttrategic
7.2.1.2 C
plans for recreation reserve
e Committees of
Managem
ment.
Ongoing support being prrovided to review th
he status of plans,
h issues as they
seek funding opportunitiess and work through
arise.
Community We
ellbeing
Ongoing
Community We
ellbeing
7.2.1.2 C
CP - Pursue funding
g to undertake
An Aquatic Strategy has b
been developed an
nd accepted by
recomme
ended works and re
edevelopment related to the Councill. Works are to progress in 2011/2012 to undertake a
Aquatic S
Strategy.
technica
al assessment of the outdoor pools and
a a design of a
hydroth
herapy pool at WISA
AC. Discussions co
ommenced with the
State G
Government to purssue funding for futu
ure developments.
An appllication for a planning grant has been
n submitted in
October 2011 to undertakke the technical ass
sessment and
entified in the
conceptt planning for the rredevelopments ide
Aquaticc Strategy.
30
0/06/2013
Community We
ellbeing
Develop
pment of the Open
n Space Strategy and
a Recreation
Strategyy underway.
Funding
g application succe
essful and planning
g works progressed
d
for the O
Ovens Riverside to
o HP Barr Reserve
e shared path.
Ovens R
Riverside Precinct - linked places application for funding
has bee
en submitted to RD
DV.
0/06/2013
30
7.2.1.3 C
CP - Develop a long
g term strategy for
enhancin
ng the passive recrreational use of wa
aterways,
including the Ovens and King Rivers, as a ma
ajor
attraction
n and focus.
43 January 24, 2012
Rural City
ty of Wangaratta
Strategy
y:
QUARTERLY REPORT
T TO COUNCIL (O
October to Decem
mber 2011)
ACT
TION
PROGR
RESS COMMENTS
S
DEPART
TMENT
CO
OMP DATE
7.2.1 To enc
courage the greate
er use of recreatio
on facilities inclu
uding formal sportts facilities, open spaces, shared paths
p
and aquatic
c centres.
Community We
ellbeing
30
0/12/2011
Community We
ellbeing
Ongoing
7.2.1.6 C
CP - Strengthen the
e capacity of sportin
ng groups Sporting
g groups involved with providing information about
through a
advice, advocacy a
and targeted fundin
ng.
capacityy to host major spo
orting events.
Sporting
g groups consulted
d in the developme
ent of the Open
Space a
and Recreation Strrategies.
Two spo
orting groups are a
applicants to the 20
012/13 Country
Footballl Netball Program and Community Facilities Programs..
Community We
ellbeing
Ongoing
7.2.1.7 C
CP - Promote opportunities for nature based
recreational activities.
Propose
ed projects were in
nvestigated for the State Government
Fishing Initiatives Grants.
eration given wherre possible regardin
ng opportunities
Conside
around nature based recreational activities in the development
of the O
Open Space and R
Recreation Strategie
es.
Community We
ellbeing
Ongoing
7.2.1.8 C
CP - Review and im
mplement Council’s
s Public
Playground Facilities Conso
olidation Strategy
Develop
pment of a Playgro
ound Strategy to be
e considered upon
complettion of the Recreattion and Open Spa
ace Strategies.
Playgro
ounds renewed in K
King George V Garrdens & Bachelors
s
Green.
unity Plans identifyy a number of playg
grounds requested
Commu
for rural areas.
ellbeing
Community We
0/12/2012
30
7.2.1.4 C
CP - Develop an acction plan to promote cycling Councill has lodged submissions for funding a 'Travel Hub'.
and walkking as an alternativve to vehicle use, including:
i
Collatin
ng existing and plan
nned walking/cyclin
ng paths to provide
e
input in to the Hume Region Tracks & Trails
s Project.
·
bikke stations;
·
bikke racks; and
·
sig
gnage.
7.2.1.5 C
CP - Explore creativve initiatives and programs
to maxim
mise the use of aquatic facilities.
no actio
ons this quarter
44 January 24, 2012
45 Wangaratta Rural City Council – Ordinary Meeting
21 February 2012
ATTACHMENT
DIRECTORATE ACTIVITY REPORTS
Refer Item 11.2.1.5
Directorate Activity Reports
October – December 2011
EXECUTIVE SERVICES REPORT ............................................................................ 2
Executive Services Management ............................................................................ 2
Communications, Marketing and Events ................................................................. 3
Economic Development and Tourism ..................................................................... 4
COMMUNITY WELLBEING REPORT ....................................................................... 7
Community Wellbeing Management ....................................................................... 7
Community and Recreation..................................................................................... 7
Visual Arts ............................................................................................................... 8
Performing Arts Centre ........................................................................................... 9
Human Services .................................................................................................... 10
Community Health and Amenity............................................................................ 11
INFRASTRUCTURE SERVICES REPORT.............................................................. 12
Works and Operations .......................................................................................... 12
Facilities and Open Spaces .................................................................................. 12
Technical Services ................................................................................................ 13
Projects and Contracts .......................................................................................... 13
SUSTAINABILITY REPORT .................................................................................... 15
Business Planning and Systems ........................................................................... 15
Environment .......................................................................................................... 15
Finance ................................................................................................................. 17
Human Resources Report..................................................................................... 17
Planning & Customer Service ............................................................................... 18
1
EXECUTIVE SERVICES REPORT
Wangaratta Rural City Council’s Executive Services comprises the business units of
Executive Services Management, Communications and Marketing and Economic
Development and Tourism. Following is a summary of the activities of the
Department during the last financial quarter.
Executive Services Management
Regional Growth Plan
Regional Growth Plans will assess the growth potential, land supply, employment
precincts and housing needs in identified regional growth areas. Council
commenced working together with the State Government and other North East
Councils in the development of the Hume Regional Growth Plan. Chief Executive
Officer is Chairing the Regional Steering Committee.
Ovens Riverside
Council has submitted the Ovens Riverside Project for funding under the
Commonwealth’s Regional Development Australia Fund.
North East Local Government Network (NELGN)
NELGN continues to meet on a regular basis to consider matters relevant to the
region and to advocate to the State and Federal governments as necessary. Rural
City of Wangaratta is the current Chair.
Issues under attention include implementation of the Hume Strategy and improving
regional outcome from Regional Development Australia Fund funding.
Hume Strategy for Sustainable Communities
In late 2011 a formal Partnership for Hume Strategy implementation was established
by the North East Local Government Network (NELGN), the Hume Region
Management Forum (HRMF) and Hume Regional Development Australia (RDA)
Committee, with funding contributions from local, state and commonwealth
governments. This resulted in creation of a formal Hume Strategy governance
structure which will enable the Partnership to engage a small team for two years
from early 2012 to provide high level advice and support for Hume Strategy
implementation. The Rural City of Wangaratta is the fund holder and will provide day
to day management on behalf of the Partnership.
Murray Darling Basin Plan
The release of the revised Murray Darling Basin Plan was well received by Council,
who had advocated strongly to preserve entitlements and preserve the health of the
north east catchments. The revised Plan looks at the Ovens River system in two
parts: surface water and ground water. In regard to surface water, there was no
change to current entitlements. In regard to groundwater, which previously was not
included in the Murray Darling Basin Plan, it increases by 2 gigalitres per annum.
Council has since made a submission reinforcing its position and is seeking local
consultation.
2
Multi-Deck Car park
Council continues to investigate opportunities to realise the aims of the Wangaratta
Central Activities Area (CAA) Car Parking Strategy including the provision of a multideck car park for Wangaratta.
Civic Recognition
In October the Rural City of Wangaratta played host to the Lions District 201V6
Convention and 55 delegates were welcomed with a Civic Reception in the Council
Chamber at the Wangaratta Government Centre.
The winners of the 2011 National Jazz Awards were congratulated at a reception
following the finals on Sunday 30 October in a fitting finale to the successful 2011
Wangaratta Festival of Jazz weekend.
The Mayor and Councillors hosted a morning tea to honour the 2011 Keep Australia
Beautiful Awards for the Pam Keating Environmental Sustainability Award and the
Young Leader Award. Father and son duo Mal and Travis Robinson prove that
respect for our environment begins at home.
“Wangaratta’s Own” 2/24 AIF Battalion Association returned to Wangaratta in
November for their 2011 Reunion weekend. One hundred and fifty guests attended
a reception in the Foyer of the Wangaratta Government Centre prior to their annual
dinner in the Memorial Hall at the Wangaratta Performing Arts Centre.
Timor Leste Program
For two weeks the Rural City of Wangaratta hosted two representatives from Timor
Leste, Deolinda da Costa and Clara de Carvalho Ximenes, who were participating in
a Ministry of State Administration and Territorial Management Training Program. At
the end of their stay Clara and Deolinda presented their main areas of learning to a
morning tea held to farewell them, which was attended by members of the Friends of
Lacluta, their English tutor, and Rural City of Wangaratta staff.
Communications, Marketing and Events
Wangaratta Showgrounds Redevelopment
The public information campaign on the progress of the Wangaratta Showgrounds
Redevelopment continued throughout the second quarter of 2011/12. Project
updates were distributed via the local media and through the Wangaratta
Showground Redevelopment Newsletter that is being distributed to all Showground
user groups.
Wangaratta Matters Community Newsletter
The summer edition of the Wangaratta Matters community newsletter was distributed
during the second week of December 2011.
Municipal Boundary Signage
Installation of newly designed Municipal Boundary signage commenced in June
2011 and continued through this quarter. The Town Entry signage phase is currently
being planned and the Municipal Boundary signage rollout reviewed.
3
Senior’s Festival
Seniors Festival 2011 ran during early October and incorporated 53 free and low
cost events. Council created and ran eight major events, which were attended by
more than 1000 guests. A post-Festival briefing was held with service providers,
attendees and a representative from the Access & Inclusion Group. The feedback
has been wonderful and those who attended are looking forward to 2012.
Christmas Program
The Christmas Program has delivered with three well attended events run in the
weeks leading up to Christmas.
Sunday 11 December
Saturday 17 December
Friday 23 December
Lions Club Carols by Candlelight
CBD Christmas Festivities
Moonlight Christmas Movie
1000 people
500 people
300 people
Summer in the Parks
A raft of events for all ages and interests is being prepared for the 2011-2012
Summer in the Parks season.
The brochure was distributed late November and was developed with the input of
Youth Development and Cultural Development.
Economic Development and Tourism
Economic Development
South Wangaratta Urban Renewal Strategy
The project is on schedule with a background paper issued, strategic options
workshops completed and initial stakeholder consultation complete. The draft
concept plan will be presented to the project steering committee in late January 2012
for feedback.
King Valley Master Plan
Following the presentation of the draft Master Plan to Councillors, it was determined
to expand the study area to include the township of Cheshunt. Consulting team,
Urban Enterprise and Planisphere will undertake this additional element of the study
and incorporate into the draft Master Plan which will then to go on public exhibition in
February/March 2012.
Skilled Migration
The Regional Skilled Migration Program will not be funded beyond June 2012.
Currently the first milestone and second milestones have been achieved, this will
trigger a further $11,700 in addition to the $18,000 already secured. 18 Migrants and
their families are currently being assisted through the program. There is continuing
strong demand from employers in the engineering and hospitality sectors for support
from the program.
Industry Health
Most companies are still experiencing a flat outlook, Bruck Textiles are waiting
results on several defence material tenders along with the police shirting tender for
Victorian Police, Australian Country Spinners declared 49 redundancies in
December 2011, 20 of which were effected in December, support was given via the
4
North East Employment Response Network by facilitating meetings between affected
workers and all support agencies. Nuplex were affected by a chemical incident,
Alpine Truss and Alpine MDF both continue at reduced volumes. By contrast Burder
Industries are busy as are North East Glass and the smaller engineering companies.
Workforce Development
The Hume Workforce Development Network has gained funding from Regional
Development Australia to conduct an audit across the region to identify the current
and future demands of the requirements of are for the future workforce of the region
so this can be linked to the establish strategy which was a result of the North East
Victoria Industry Workforce Development strategy.
Previous work with the aged care sector has resulted in our concerns being reflected
in the productivity commission report around the question of adequate training.
Sports Tourism
A series of one-on-one capability assessments was conducted by Complete Sports
Marketing to identify those sports which have the capacity and capabilities host state
or national events. The report is due mid-January 2012.
Work has progressed on Baseball Victoria’s Under 16 Winter Championships in
August 2012. A press release has been issued; an information flyer developed in
conjunction with the Visitor Information Centre directing all accommodation bookings
to the centre’s accommodation service and meetings with the host organisation have
been undertaken.
The Cost Mitigation Program briefing sessions are planned for February 2012.
Economic Development and Tourism Strategy Review
Consultancy group, Emotional Intelligence Worldwide have been appointed to
undertake the review of the Tourism Development and Economic Development
Strategies. The Board of Wangaratta Unlimited will participate in the two workshop
sessions facilitated by the consultants to undertake the strategic review in
February/March 2012.
2012 Regional Living Victoria Expo
This State Government sponsored consumer expo focuses on “Live, Work and
Invest in Regional Victoria”. Preliminary work with the 5 councils in the Hume region
has been undertaken. The event takes place 27 – 29 April 2012 and it is anticipated
that 10,000 people will attend.
Agriculture and Agribusiness Advisory Committee
Following the inception meeting on 29 August 2011, the focus of the Agriculture and
Agribusiness Advisory Committee has largely been on providing input into the
development of the Draft 2 Rural Land Strategy to go on exhibition in the first quarter
of 2012.
This input has been provided following the evaluation of consultation activities – draft
Rural Land Strategy, a tour of the farming regions with the Rural City of Wangaratta
and consideration of the Draft Rural Land Strategy Action Plan.
5
The advice and recommendations from the committee will assist Council in
determining the Draft 2 Strategy.
Tourism
Ned Kelly Interpretive Centre Re-scoping Study
A project steering committee including Cr. Anthony Griffiths, Nick Byrne from
Tourism Victoria and representatives of Wangaratta Unlimited has been appointed to
work with the appointed consultancy Terroir, Thylacine and Hurst. Two steering
committee workshops have been undertaken and extensive one-on-one consultation
is being progressed with relevant stakeholders.
Conferences / Business Events - Seminar
A seminar was held on 17 November 2011 aimed to educate local businesses on the
value of conference / business events and ways they can benefit from them being
held in the region. A prospectus for businesses to participate in the Conference and
Events Planners Guide was distributed at the seminar.
Conferences / Business Events – Planner’s Guide
Sales commenced on 17 November 2011 and closed in December. The prospectus
and booking form was distributed via email, in person and at the seminar held on 17
November. This sales process was a great success considering the lead-time, busy
Christmas period and with buy-in for the guide exceeding Councils contribution
Conferences / Business Events – Visitors Pass (Z-Card)
Quotes were obtained to produce a Visitor’s Pass to compliment the suite of
collateral and services surrounding the Conference and Events project moving
forward. The Visitor Pass will provide offers to delegates attending conferences and
events within the region. It will be developed in-house and printed externally in
Feb/Mar 2012.
Festival of Jazz and Blues
This year’s event was highly successful. The interim Wangaratta Festival of Jazz
Board working together with the operational committee ensured that all elements of
the festival were .
Cycle Tourism Website
The Member for Murray Valley, Tim McCurdy, launched the Murray to the Mountains
Rail Trail website 15 December 2011 at Lindenwarrah Country House Hotel, Milawa.
Cycle Tourism Social Media
Murray to Mountains has increased it’s online presence with the introduction of a
Facebook Page, You Tube Chanel, Twitter Page and registration of the Murray to
Mountains Rail Trial as an attraction with Trip Advisor.
Cycle Tourism Business Development
High Country Bike Adventures, a bike tour operator based in Milawa, is continuing to
grow at a rapid rate. Now with a second mini bus purchased, a fleet of 30 bikes for
hire and international product listings.
The Pedal to Produce Ride around the Milawa Gourmet Region is proving to be very
popular with visitors and with the media.
6
COMMUNITY WELLBEING REPORT
Wangaratta Rural City Council’s Community Wellbeing Directorate comprises the
business units of Community and Recreation, Human Services, Visual Arts,
Performing Arts and Community Health and Amenity. The following is a summary of
the activities of the Directorate during the last financial quarter.
Community Wellbeing Management
Ovens Riverside Project
An Expression of Interest submission to the Regional Development Australia Fund
has been selected to be part of an application submission process. The application
must be completed by 15 February 2012.
Children’s Services Centre Final Stage
An Expression of Interest submission to the Department of Education and Early
Childhood Development Integrated Children’s Services Centre Program has been
selected to be part of an application submission process. The application must be
completed by 27 February 2012.
Regional Tracks and Trails Project
The Rural City of Wangaratta has agreed to be the auspice agency of funding to
undertake a study to determine tracks and trails across the Central Hume region and
develop a plan for future development. This project will involve a partnership
approach with other neighbouring Councils and the Department of Planning and
Community Development.
Community and Recreation
Recreation Planning
A Council working group has been established to collate walking/cycle path mapping
information to inform the Regional Tracks and Trails Project.
The Open Space and Recreation Strategies are in draft form and will be presented to
Council in April 2012.
Community
The Seniors Week Festival was a great success and included 53 events held over 2
weeks from 1 October to 13 October 2011. It is estimated that up to 1000 seniors
participated in the eight Council organised events.
Australia Day Awards nominations closed on 9 December 2011 for the Rural City of
Wangaratta’s 2012 Australia Day Awards. Eight Citizen of the Year, nine Young
Citizen of the Year and three Community Event of the Year nominations were
received.
The New Residents Guide has been developed, printed and distributed to relevant
locations as well as being available on Council’s website.
7
Youth
The Youth Council Survey received 135 responses from young people. The
responses from the survey questions will be formulated into a report which will go to
Council in March 2012.
Cultural Development
An Indigenous story telling project is being developed in partnership with the
Dirrawarra Network. A working group has now been developed to work with elder Mr
Freddie Dowling’s Creation stories. This project has received funding via a Willam
Naling small grant from the Public Record Office of Victoria.
A presentation of the Culture Victoria Project was undertaken at the North East
Multicultural Association Annual General Meeting. The presentation gave a summary
of the project and focussed on ‘Wangaratta a Textile Town- Bruck Post War
Migration’ including a screening of the film. The Culture Victoria Project was
nominated for a Victorian Community History Award.
Community Planning
Graffiti removal
The Department of Justice's Correctional Services have been working with Council
to undertake graffiti removal and clean up in Wangaratta's urban area.
Community Support Training
Beyond Blue, King Valley Learning Exchange and the Rural City of Wangaratta
worked together to deliver Community Support Training (CST) as a flood recovery
initiative for the King Valley community champions on Wednesday 7 December
2011. The CST training provided seven local leaders with a free mental health
session to develop skills and confidence in how to start a conversation with someone
they’re concerned about and how to assist them to seek the help they need.
Visual Arts
Gallery
The Wangaratta Art Gallery exhibitions attracted 10,024 visitors over the past three
months – October to December 2011.
Exhibitions installed for the period included: ‘JazzArt’ and ‘JazzArt Next’ Awards,
‘EXIT ’11’ the Goulburn Ovens Institute of TAFE graduating visual arts and graphic
design/multimedia student exhibition, and ‘One Step Further’ a Victorian Quilters
textile award exhibition.
Paul Temple and Ian Hood’s photographic images of iconic rock stars, Anita
Laurence’s lino-cut prints and paintings of NE Victoria and other locations, and
Susan Mathews’ quilts were installed in the Wangaratta Performing Arts Centre over
past three months.
‘Flights of Fancy’ an exhibition of works by six North East Victorian artists was
installed in the Workshop Space from 8 – 23 October 2011. Collector’s Ron and
Ross Aldridge loaned indigenous artworks from their extensive art collection for their
‘My Country’ contemporary indigenous art exhibition which opened in November and
continues into February 2012, also in the Workshop Space.
8
An exciting new acquisition created by Australian and international artist Dani Marti
was purchased with grant funds received through the Robert Salzer Foundation and
the Gallery acquisitions budget. The textile based work titled ‘Book of Miracles (Take
3)’ is made from highly industrialised steel and broken weave.
Library
Participation in library programs:
Adult programs – Oct-Dec 2011 - 17 programs with 489 in attendance.
Junior programs – Oct-Dec 2011 – 77 programs with 912 in attendance.
There were 13 external programs conducted with a total of 241 in attendance.
Wangaratta Library in conjunction with Miriam Zolin from Extempore hosted the
launch of A sudden sentence in the air: a collection of jazz poems by Geoff Page.
Approximately 60 people enjoyed the evening, which was one of the first events for
the Wangaratta Jazz Festival. This is the second year that an event of this nature
has been held at the library.
Performing Arts Centre
The Wangaratta Performing Arts Centre hosted over 28 performances and more
than 8,400 patrons to the 22nd Wangaratta Festival of Jazz and Blues events. This
year’s event was very successful and many compliments were received from
patrons.
Successful events held in the last quarter of 2011 included:
•
•
•
The Lions Convention (230 delegates over 3 days)
Worksafe Week 2011 (a state wide event) which attracted 150 delegates to
the centre.
The 2nd / 24th Infantry Battalion Dinner took place in November and despite
the increasing age of members of this organisation was exceptionally well
attended.
Many community events also took place in the centre utilising both the Memorial Hall
including the Wangaratta Access and Inclusion Group Expo, Community Support
North East Client Forum, and the Alpine MDF Theatre the Wangaratta High School,
GOTAFE student awards, Northern Rivers Academy of Music , all Wangaratta’s
dance schools (3 schools , 6 performances) and Wangaratta Drama Studio to name
a few.
Feedback from the communities who hosted ‘The Weather and Your Health’ in
October 2011 was very positive. The performance was toured to Edi Upper, Greta,
Whorouly and Myrrhee. A total of 248 patrons attended the four venues. Moyhu
cancelled due to lack of numbers but the performance was able to be adapted to fit
into the community space at St John’s Aged Care Facility. Residents of other aged
care facilities were invited to St John’s and the performance was well received with
over 60 people attending at St John’s. Regional Arts Victoria will be developing a
case study from the tour and the model has been presented at the Victorian
Association of Performing Arts Centres (VAPAC) Managers’ meeting and a touring
forum hosted by Arts Victoria.
9
Human Services
Home and Community Care
HACC is currently sitting at 93.3% of its overall total funded target.
Service provision has again been successful in tendering for the Veteran Home Care
contract and are now contracted to provide services until 2014.
The Sustainability Project has assisted 170 households with audits and
retrofits of equipment and practises to increase the sustainable use of energy and
water.
The Yarrunga Meals program which has involved HACC clients attending meal
preparation sessions with Yarrunga Primary School students continues to be a major
success with all stakeholders providing positive feedback about this active service
initiative and it’s benefits
HACC has implemented a text messaging system for staff communication which has
been well received by staff. Over 200 messages have been sent in just over 4
weeks. The SMS messaging benefits include, reliable, low-cost communication for
distribution of concise information (i.e. written not verbal), guaranteed message
delivery, improved productivity, delivery of messages to multiple users
simultaneously, and delivery of weather warnings and emergency alerts.
Child Care Centre
Over the past 3 months the centres occupancy level has fluctuated between 73.28%
to 97.42% with the average being 92.31% which is similar to the previous quarter.
Weekly fluctuations are due to casual bookings needed by families and community
agencies such Coorinya House, Child First and the Department of Human Services.
In the past 18 months staff have received training on brain development and the
Trauma affected child. This training has assisted in the development and
implementation of the Behaviour Guidance Document which focuses on Time-in as
opposed to Time-out. This training has allowed staff to have a greater understanding
of the children’s needs and further meet the needs of the Early Years frameworks.
The training along with the guidance document has help to give staff a greater
insight and ease stress when a traumatised child comes to the service.
Enrolments for 2012 have been received with expected occupancies at 85.75% for
the start of the year. This is reflective of previous years that commence with a lower
rate and then increase as the year proceeds.
Family Day Care
FDC continues to have a long waiting list of families to access this service but
unfortunately there is still a shortage of educators (carers) to be able to respond to
this demand.
Utilisation has been 87 EFT for the quarter which is well below last years equivalent
this is reflective of the difficulty in maintaining and recruiting educators.
10
Community Health and Amenity
Environmental Health
Ongoing maintenance of high immunisation rate; with 95% of residents immunised in
target age groups
Emergency Management
Neighbourhood Safer Places – Whitfield still awaiting CFA reassessment, work is
continuing with the Department of Sustainability and Environment to develop a
process for Cheshunt and Glenrowan.
Council Officers were involved in a response and recovery process for a chemical
spill that occurred on 19 December 2011. A process of evacuation was undertaken
for an area immediately impacted by the spill which resulted in the opening of a relief
centre at the old Ovens College Hall. This matter has been the subject of an
investigation by the Environmental Protection Authority and Worksafe Victoria.
Halls and Reserves
Showgrounds – work underway to establish formal agreement with user/s of the new
Showgrounds facility
.
11
INFRASTRUCTURE SERVICES REPORT
Wangaratta Rural City Council’s Infrastructure Department comprises the business
units of Technical Services, Facilities and Open Spaces, Works and Operations and
Projects and Contracts. Following is a summary of the activities of the Department
during the last financial quarter.
Works and Operations
The Works and Operations Unit progressed well with both routine and periodic
maintenance activities for the reporting period. Limited maintenance grading was
completed due to the dry climatic conditions.
A table drain cleaning programme was commenced which will target sealed link and
collector roads for 2011/2012.
The internal Construction Crew commenced road sealing works along Thomas
Street, Wangaratta and Shadforth Street, Oxley, with these projects anticipated to be
completed by the end of January 2012.
Another project underway is the road reconstruction works on sections of the Moyhu
- Hansonville Road. Ground conditions encountered saw the project stalled for the
month of January to allow further "dry back" and the Crew will return in mid to late
February to place the final layers of road pavement and arrange sealing.
Facilities and Open Spaces
Facilities
Renovations at Aerodrome Terminal were commenced; toilets have been tiled and
painted.
Swimming pools were prepared for opening and Christmas decorations were
installed.
Depot renovations at Newman Street Depot commenced and the majority of the
work in the lunchroom was completed. Works include air-conditioning, painting and
kitchen refurbishment. Workshop office renovations commenced.
Plant replacement
The 11/12 plant replacement program continued with the delivery of an Iseki Outfront
mower and two Calais, an order for a replacement water truck has been issued.
Trials on improving fuel consumption with the waste compaction units were
conducted, by turning off the throttle advances on the units. It is anticipated that
$24,000 in fuel costs will be saved annually.
Parks and Gardens
Slashing programs for fire prevention were completed and road shoulder spraying for
Works and Operations unit.
Playground and shade sail were installed at Whorouly and shade sails were installed
over playgrounds at King George V Memorial Gardens and Batchelors Green.
12
Transfer Station
The Wangaratta Transfer Station is operating well. Data from November and
December shows increased income of $12,000.00 and 30 tonne less material being
taken to the landfill for the same period compared to 2010. It should be noted that
$3,300.00 of the income is from E-Waste previously taken to the landfill and charged
as general waste. The reduction in material being taken to the landfill is an
indication of improved monitoring by the attendant and compliance with recycling by
customers. There has been approximately 15 Tonne of E-Waste removed from the
waste stream for November December.
Technical Services
Flood Restoration
The Flood Restoration works are now almost complete with works around the
reinstatement of landslips still outstanding.
Capital Works
All of Councils Capital Works projects have now commenced with some projects
already completed.
Development Update
Updates on current Residential Developments within the municipality are as follows:
•
•
•
•
•
King Fisher Estate – Final Stage – Nearing Completion
Wonga Park Drive – 14 Lots – Nearing Completion
Waldara Estate – Stage 4 – Completed
White Post Road, Everton – Stage 2 – Commenced
Laceby Grange Estate – Stage 2 – Completed
Projects and Contracts
Showgrounds Project
Construction of the community building progressing with completion scheduled by
mid February 2012.
Orkney Street, Kerb and Channel renewal
Works by Gordon Gibson have been completed to a ‘Practical Completion’ stage.
Road Reseal Project
Sprayline have been appointed as the contractor for the resealing contract. Contact
consists of resealing of 24km of rural roads, 12km of urban street, 4km of rural bike
paths and 3km of Rail Trail.
Roads to Recovery
Quarterly report completed and submitted to Department of Infrastructure and
Transport.
Kerb Ramps and missing Sections
Works progressed including Norton Street, Phillipson Street and Swan Street.
Wangaratta Children Centre –stage 2
Construction completed.
13
Ovens River Bike Path
• Cultural Heritage Management Plan has been approved by Yorta Yorta on 14
October.
• The contract for design and construction of the pedestrian bridges was
awarded on 18 October 2011.
• Site work for foundation investigation was carried out on 27-28 October in the
presence of Yorta Yorta.
• Meeting and site visit with representative of the Department of Sustainability
and Environment (DSE). Planning permit application for native vegetation
removal (8 trees) submitted.
• Due to the change of one bridge tower location, Council has applied for
another cultural heritage management plan to cover the area. Field survey
with Yorta Yorta and cultural heritage advisor took place on 8 December.
• Submitted all the required documents and plans to DSE to be appointed as
the Committee of Management in order to build the path on Crown Land.
Glenrowan Bike Path
Requested for quote to carry out title search for all properties along the proposed
path and locate their eastern title boundary on site.
Bowser Cell 8
Earthworks commenced on 13 October 2011. Preparation of subgrade and
compacted clay liner complete. The Contractor has covered over 90% of the cell
surface with geomembrane under full time supervision of the independent QA officer.
Waste Management Strategy
Commenced the revision of the waste management strategy.
Public Safety infrastructure Fund
Application to the Public Safety infrastructure Fund to provide grants for the lighting
of car parks and shared paths in public areas. Results of application anticipated to
be announced late February 2012.
Tenders
The following tenders have been advertised/ awarded during the December Quarter:
Tender No
C1112-009
C1112-010
C1112-012
C1112-014
C1112/015
Description
Supply of Waste Transfer Truck
Dual axle truck
Kerr St industrial upgrade
Executive & Admin functions of Hume Region
Wangandary Rd – patching & sealing
14
SUSTAINABILITY REPORT
Wangaratta Rural City Council’s Sustainability Directorate comprises the business
units of Business Planning and Systems, Environment, Finance, Human Resources
and Planning and Customer Services. Following is a summary of the activities of the
Directorate during the last financial quarter.
Business Planning and Systems
Asset Management
The Municipal Association of Victoria and Department of Planning and community
Development asset management data returns were submitted.
Asset renewal assumption were workshops held and assumptions agreed and
updated in modelling software.
Asset Renewal Long Term Financial Plan wasupdated.
Asset Capitalisation Policy workshop was held and policy finalised.
Purchasing
2011 purchasing spend analysis data was reviewed with Projects and Contracts
team and improvement actions agreed.
Health, Safety and Risk
52 Local Government Inspectorate audit items were completed internally in
Assembly of Councillors (Sections 76AA and 80A), Budget (Sections 127 & 130),
Council Plan (Sections 125 & 126), Councillor and Mayoral Allowances (Section 74),
Election of Mayor (Section 71), Oath of Office (Sections 63 and 64) and Local Laws
(Sections 111 & 119).
Information Technology
Planning module completed and in use.
Contracts module introductory workshop held with Projects and Contracts team.
Saleyards
Operations review meeting held with Wangaratta Associated Stock Agents.
Quarterly saleyards newsletter published.
11,800 cattle sold through the yards.
Environment
Current Programs and Grants
Assist the community to live sustainably within the environment
1. Strengthening Basin Communities - North East Greenhouse Alliance (NEGHA)
projects
15
NEGHA is conducting two linked projects funded by this Commonwealth program.
These projects examine the impacts of climate change and water variability on the
local environment, economy and community. The studies will propose measures to
better prepare for these impacts.
Project One, ‘Adapting to a Low Water Future’, concentrates on Council and agency
services, and has produced several studies :
•
•
•
•
•
•
Background studies on the impact of climate change in the north east
A regional climate change risk assessment and adaptation actions, focussing
on water issues
Practical policy and planning actions for local Councils
Water efficiency assessments and case studies of small to medium
enterprises (including Council’s Livestock Exchange)
A regional Training Skills Analysis
A case study climate change action plan (based on Alpine Shire)
Currently, Bonacci Water is conducting studies examining water use and security
options and also examining sewer and sullage options for small towns.
This project is expected to finish by March, for finalisation by the NEGHA Executive
Committee.
Project Two - ‘Socioeconomic Adaptation Planning’, examines the socioeconomic
impacts of climate change, community vulnerability and possible adaptation actions.
A discussion paper about the social impacts of climate change was used in public
discussion across the region.
2. Eco Living Sustainable Communities Project
Four ‘open’ events were held at the EcoLiving Centre, including a Council staff tour.
The EcoLiving trailer was designed and fabricated, ready for fitout with
demonstration energy and water saving devices.
3. Solar North East Project
The solar contractor, ZEN Home Energy Systems, was selected. ZEN displayed at
the ‘My Backyard Rules’ local event and conducted a local public information
session. The Wangaratta Solar Ambassador commenced in December.
4. Development of Sustainable Households (DOSH) Low Income Household
Sustainability Project
Interest in this program to assist Home and Community Care clients with household
sustainability has been slowing. Through their personal contact, Home and
Community Care (HACC) staff have raised awareness of the program. To December
2011, 200 households have received audits and fitting of weatherproofing items, low
energy light bulbs, and water saving devices, as needed.
Support our community to experience and appreciate a healthy, divers and
exciting natural environment
1. Cooperation with Landcare, environment groups and the community
The Environment unit conducted a number of public events this quarter.
16
The key sustainability event for the year was the ‘My Backyard Rules’ sustainability
expo held in conjunction with GOTAFE at the Wangaratta Equine Centre in Tone
Road, on 15 October.. More than 500 people viewed 20 exhibits on all aspect of
home and garden sustainability. Council exhibitions in native gardens, waterwise
gardens, Council’s street tree program and home sustainability received a lot of
interest.
Council worked with the Wangaratta Sustainability Network in a public exhibition for
National Water Week in October. In November, during National Recycling Week,
Council conducted a recycling information session with a bus visit to the new works
at the Bowser landfill, to help about 20 residents understand how to improve
recycling, and its importance.
Finance
Revised Budget
For the December quarter the Finance units focus has been the Revised Budget.
This has been finalised and the report went to the January Council meeting.
Monthly reports
Works is being done to streamline monthly reports.
External Auditors
The external auditors conducted their interim visit on the 17th & 18th November.
Human Resources Report
Timor- Leste Program
Rural City of Wangaratta hosted two Timor-Leste Local Government Officers for 3 ½
weeks as a part of a training program with Department Planning and Community
Development (DPCD) and Local Government Professionals (LG Pro). The aim of the
program was to strengthen and build the capacity of the Timor-Leste Local
Government Officers. The training focussed on leadership development in a
community context and provided the officers with exposure to knowledge and
expertise focusing on leadership principles, governance, ethics and project
management.
As a part of this program, the Mentor from Rural City of Wangaratta will travel to
Timor-Leste for two weeks to assist the officers in implementing the action plans
which were developed during their placement at Rural City of Wangaratta.
17
TechnologyOne HR Module
All staff Position Descriptions (PDs) have been loaded onto TechOne (approximately
196 in total).
One PD now exists for each role regardless of the role being fulltime, part time or
casual. All qualifications and experience and Key Selection Criteria’s have been
loaded onto TechOne against each individual PD. Loading of each employee’s
qualifications and completed training has also commenced. With this information
loaded for the position and the employee this will enable a gap analysis of any
outstanding qualification or training needs required.
Currently all PDs are now generated and retained on TechOne. Preparation is now
underway for the implementation of the Annual Review document to also be
generated in TechOne, utilising all the information loaded for the position and the
employee.
Planning & Customer Service
Customer Service have fielded many calls over the last few months relating to
garbage and recycling queries, with a large portion of calls relating to cost and
disposal of analogue televisions and what arrangements are in place for the
Christmas and New Year period.
The building department experienced a pre-Christmas rush for building permits for
sheds, pergolas and swimming pools. Council continues to secure building permit
work occurring in neighbouring municipalities as a substantial component of permits
issued, particularly in Yarrawonga, Myrtleford and Beechworth.
Statutory planning saw a decline in applications in October, but this did not last for
long. A range of subdivision, unit, heritage and commercial applications have been
received and are generally being processed within the 60 day statutory time limit
Building Permits Issued by Private & Municipal Building Surveyor
Construction
Type
Residential
Shops
Commercial
Industrial
Community
Alt. & Additions
3 Month Total
3 Month Value
No. Issued
$ Value
No. Issued
$ Value
No. Issued
$ Value
No. Issued
$ Value
No. Issued
$ Value
No. Issued
$ Value
No. Issued
$ Value
October December 2010
42
9,893,119
0
0
20
4,764,232 *1
0
0
10
846,362
111
2,937,482
183
18,441,195
October - December
2011
38
14,020,777
0
0
6
2,406,650
2
155,000
5
125,600
108
3,293,795
159
20,001,822
18
Breakdown of Building Permits Issued
(October - December 2011)
Building Permits Issued by Council
(Rural City of Wangaratta)
Building Permits Issued by Private Building Surveyor
Permits issued Out of
Municipality
by
RCOW
Building Surveyor
No. Of Permits
Total Cost of Works $
No.
64
63
October - December October - December
2010
2011
35
3,524,237
32
2,219,099
MAJOR PROJECTS:
*1
Includes $391,402 for Alterations to Building (Council office’s), 62-68
Ovens Street, Wangaratta.
19
Wangaratta Rural City Council – Ordinary Meeting
21 February 2012
ATTACHMENT
SHOWGROUNDS REDEVELOPMENT: AFL NAB CUP GAME
Refer Item 11.2.1.6
Wangaratta Showgrounds
Essendon v St Kilda
Gates open 4pm
Tickets available from
03 5722 8105 or
wangarattapac.com.au
Pre purchasing encouraged - gate sales will
only be available if not sold out prior.
LIVE radio broadcast from the Wangaratta
Performing Arts Centre – be there to win great
prizes and be part of the program!
$45 per person lunch experience:
 two course lunch
 glass of Prosecco
 Prosecco Road glass
Participating Venues:
Brown Brothers 5720 5500
Dal Zotto Winery 5729
8321(Sunday)
Mountain View Hotel 5729 8270
Sam Miranda 5727 3888
Book direct with venues
Take in Wangaratta’s premier race day,
highlighted by the $60,000 Wangaratta
Cup and celebrity comedian Russell
Gilbert. Enjoy the live entertainment,
free kids’ activities and fashions on the
field (with over $5000 worth of prizes).
Free regional bus service to and from
the track. For more details or bookings
visit wangaratta.countryracing.com.au
The total weekend package is up for grabs!

Prosecco Road lunch experience for two at Sam
Miranda Wines on Saturday 3rd

Two VIP passes to NAB Cup Rooftop Function

Two Wangaratta Cup Sam Miranda Ultimate
Dining Packages
NAME:
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
POSTCODE:
__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Prize will be drawn on Friday 2 March at 3.45pm during
the live broadcast from the Wangaratta Performing Arts
Centre. Winner must be present to claim the prize and be
over the age of 18. NOT REDEEMABLE FOR CASH. Entry
must be placed in the entry box at the Wangaratta
Performing Arts Centre prior to 3.30pm on Friday 2 March.
Wangaratta Rural City Council – Ordinary Meeting
21 February 2012
ATTACHMENT
DRAFT 2 RURAL LAND STRATEGY
Refer Item 11.2.2.1
Rural City of Wangaratta
Revised draft Rural Land Strategy
Background and Issues Paper
Draft 2.2
As at 23 January 2012
Rural City of Wangaratta
PO Box 238
Wangaratta VIC 3677
www.wangaratta.vic.gov.au
Phone: (03) 5722 0888
Facsimile: (03) 5722 9526
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page No.
CHAPTER 1 .................................................................................................................................................... 5
INTRODUCTION ............................................................................................................................................. 5
CHAPTER 2 .................................................................................................................................................... 7
THE PLANNING FRAMEWORK ..................................................................................................................... 7
2.1
PLANNING & ENVIRONMENT ACT 1987 ............................................................................ 7
2.2
HISTORY OF PLANNING SCHEMES IN THE RURAL CITY OF WANGARATTA .............. 7
2.3
WANGARATTA PLANNING SCHEME ............................................................................... 14
2.4
STATE PLANNING POLICY FRAMEWORK (SPPF) .......................................................... 14
2.5
GUIDELINES FOR PERMIT APPLICATIONS IN CATCHMENT AREAS ........................... 17
2.6
LOCAL PLANNING POLICY FRAMEWORK (LPPF) .......................................................... 18
2.7
DEFINITIONS ...................................................................................................................... 23
2.8
CONCLUSIONS .................................................................................................................. 27
CHAPTER 3 .................................................................................................................................................. 28
OTHER RELEVANT PLANS, PLANNING PROJECTS AND GOVERNMENT POLICY .............................. 28
3.1
WANGARATTA 2030 COMMUNITY VISION ...................................................................... 28
3.2
KING VALLEY MASTERPLAN ............................................................................................ 29
3.3
WANGARATTA ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY, 2008 – 2011 ....................... 29
3.4
WANGARATTA TOURISM INDUSTRY STRATEGIC PLAN, 2010 – 2013 ........................ 29
3.5
COMMUNITY PLANS .......................................................................................................... 30
3.6
LANDSCAPE CHARACTER ASSESSMENT ...................................................................... 31
3.7
REVIEW OF RURAL LANDSCAPE ASSESSMENT STUDY RECOMMENDATIONS ....... 32
3.8
REGIONAL CATCHMENT STRATEGY .............................................................................. 32
3.9
SECURING OUR NATURAL FUTURE: LAND AND BIODIVERSITY WHITE PAPER...... 33
3.10
BUSHFIRE ROYAL COMMISSION ..................................................................................... 34
3.11
THE HUME STRATEGY FOR SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITIES ........................................ 34
3.12
FUTURE FARMS STRATEGY ............................................................................................ 36
3.13
NORTHERN REGION SUSTAINABLE WATER STRATEGY............................................. 37
3.14
MURRAY DARLING BASIN PLAN ...................................................................................... 38
3.15
LOWER OVENS GROUNDWATER RESOURCE .............................................................. 38
3.16
NEIGHBOURING MUNICIPAL CONTEXT.......................................................................... 39
3.17
COMMUNITY CONSULTATIONS - RURAL LAND STRATEGY ........................................ 42
3.18
DRAFT RURAL LAND STRATEGY – CONSULTATION ACTIVITIES ............................... 43
3.19
CONCLUSIONS .................................................................................................................. 45
CHAPTER 4 .................................................................................................................................................. 46
CHANGING RURAL LANDSCAPES ............................................................................................................. 46
CHAPTER 5 .................................................................................................................................................. 55
LOCAL LAND AND PROPERTY TRANSACTION DATA ............................................................................. 55
5.1
AGRICULTURAL STATISTICS OVERVIEW AND BACKGROUND INFORMATION......... 55
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 3
5.2
SUBDIVISION APPROVALS ............................................................................................... 69
5.3
EXCISIONS ........................................................................................................................ 69
5.4
VALUATIONS ...................................................................................................................... 70
5.5
DEMOGRAPHICS ............................................................................................................... 71
5.6
COMPLAINTS AND CONFLICT .......................................................................................... 73
5.7
PROPERTY TRANSACTION DATA ................................................................................... 74
5.8
PROPERTY TRANSACTIONS BY LOCALITY ................................................................... 75
5.9
ADDRESS OF PURCHASER .............................................................................................. 76
5.10
EXPANSION OF FARMING PROPERTIES ........................................................................ 77
5.11
BUILDING APPROVALS ..................................................................................................... 77
5.12
PLANNING APPROVALS.................................................................................................... 79
CHAPTER 6 .................................................................................................................................................. 81
MAPPING: THE PHYSICAL ATTRIBUTES AND AGRICULTURAL POTENTIAL OF RURAL LAND .......... 81
CHAPTER 7 .................................................................................................................................................. 83
ANALYSIS AND AGRICULTURAL LAND AND LAND USE DATA .............................................................. 83
7.1
USES OF AGRICULTURAL LAND ..................................................................................... 83
7.2
ANALYSIS OF AGRICULTURAL LAND AND LAND USES ............................................... 83
CHAPTER 8 .................................................................................................................................................. 89
CONCLUSIONS AND ISSUES FOR FURTHER CONSIDERATION ........................................................... 89
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 4
Chapter 1
Introduction
The Council of the Rural City of Wangaratta (RCoW) is reviewing the land use
planning arrangements of the rural areas of the municipality.
The review is necessary because:
1.
demographics and agricultural practices are changing;
2.
the 2006 Planning Scheme Amendment C26 replaced the Rural zone with the
Farming zone but other potential changes were not adequately considered;
and
3.
the Municipal Strategic Statement commits Council to “Undertake a rural
lands study to assess the agricultural, mixed farming, lifestyle farming and
environmental conditions of rural land, making recommendations on the
application of the Rural Activity and Rural Conservation zones”.
This review will consider whether:
1.
the objectives and key elements of the Wangaratta Planning Scheme (WPS)
are consistent with more recent Council and State planning initiatives; and
2.
amendments to the WPS are necessary and, if so, what options are available.
In 2007 the Department of Sustainability and Environment produced a Practice Note
to assist with the application of the then new zones for rural Victoria. The Note
suggested that strategy development should consider an assessment of:
• the State, regional and local strategic planning policies and objectives for the
area;
• the housing needs of the municipality and likely future trends. This is
particularly relevant if one of the aims of the strategy is to provide for rural living
development;
• the physical attributes of the land and its capacity to support productive
agricultural uses. These attributes include soil type, climate, vegetation cover,
access to water, slope and drainage;
• agricultural trends in the area, including agricultural productivity, changes in
farming practices and processes, and farm investment patterns;
• the natural resources and environmental features in the area and their
importance. (These features include flora and fauna, significant habitats,
wetlands, scenic landscapes and sites of archaeological or cultural
significance);
• environmental hazards that could affect how the land is used and developed,
such as erosion, salinity, flooding and wildfire risk;
• the existing lot size and land use patterns;
• infrastructure available for agriculture and other relevant land uses; and
• settlement patterns in the area.
As a first step in this process, Council produced a Draft Rural Land Strategy (DRLS).
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 5
At its meeting on 15 March 2011 Council resolved:
“That Council adopt the Draft Rural Land Strategy and place it on exhibition
for a period of 2 months and undertake a program of community consultation
seeking feedback on the strategy.”
That decision commenced a significant communication process involving mail-out of
information, one-one-one consultations, small group briefings and four community
meetings.
During the consultation process, Council’s Mayor and Chief Executive Officer met
with the Minister for Planning, to clarify his position regarding aspects of the DRLS.
The Minister advised that he:
• did not support a 250 hectare minimum for the “as of right” construction of a
dwelling in the Farming zone;
• did not offer an alternative and encouraged Council to work through other
options, in consultation with the community;
• did not support discontinuing the DRLS and had no opinions on other elements
of it; and
• preferred that Council continue with the process and respond to the issues as
part of the review.
This review of the draft Rural Land Strategy has taken into account the Minister’s
advice, feedback received from the consultation and further information that is now
to hand.
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 6
Chapter 2
The Planning Framework
2.1
Planning & Environment Act 1987
The Planning and Environment Act 1987 (the Act) is the overarching legislation for
land use planning in Victoria. It sets the framework for both strategic and statutory
planning and requires Council as the Planning Authority to prepare and have a
Planning Scheme covering the municipal district. Council is also authorised as a
Responsible Authority to consider and determine applications for planning permits
and to enforce the provisions of the Planning Scheme.
The Planning and Environment Act sets out the purpose of land use planning.
“The purpose of this Act is to establish a framework for planning the use,
development and protection of land in Victoria in the present and long-term
interests of all Victorians”.
The Act also sets out objectives for planning in Victoria as:
“(a) to provide for the fair, orderly, economic and sustainable use, and
development of land;
(b) to provide for the protection of natural and manmade resources and the
maintenance of ecological processes and genetic diversity;
(c) to secure a pleasant, efficient and safe working, living and recreational
environment for all Victorians and visitors to Victoria;
(d) to conserve and enhance those buildings, areas or other places which are of
scientific, aesthetic, architectural or historical interest, or otherwise of special
cultural value;
(e) to protect public utilities and other assets and enable the orderly provision and
co-ordination of public utilities and other facilities for the benefit of the
community;
(f) to facilitate development in accordance with the objectives set out in
paragraphs (a), (b), (c), (d) and (e); and
(g) to balance the present and future interests of all Victorians”.
The Act further builds on these objectives by establishing specific objectives for the
planning framework. These include sound strategic planning and coordinated action
at State, regional and municipal levels, enabling land use planning and policy to be
easily integrated with social, economic and environmental policies including
conservation and resource management.
Any strategy prepared to support or amend a Planning Scheme must have regard to
these objectives.
2.2
History of Planning Schemes in the Rural City of Wangaratta
The history of rural land use planning in and around Wangaratta can be seen as four
periods:
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 7
•
Prior to 1994. The City of Wangaratta and the five adjoining Shire Councils
(Benalla, Yarrawonga, Oxley, Wangaratta and United Shire of Beechworth)
each had their separate Planning Schemes.
•
In 1994, the amalgamation of local governments saw parts of each of these
schemes brought together.
•
In 1999, the Rural City of Wangaratta Planning Scheme was revised and more
consistent provisions were introduced.
•
In 2006, the introduction of the new zones for rural areas, including the Farming
zone, resulted in significant change.
Further detail of the particular arrangements is set out below.
Prior to 1999 the WPS comprised a series of Chapters of the former municipalities.
There was variation in relation to the permit triggers for both new houses and
subdivision within the rural areas.
Shire of Oxley
Two rural zones applied and were explained as:
“These zones provide a basis for the long term use of land for agricultural
activities, but on the basis of protecting the rural environment from degradation
resulting from excessive tree removal, soil erosion, water quality and inappropriate
landuse.
The zones also recognise the potential for tourist activities that are appropriate in a
rural area on existing small rural lots and farm based light industrial activities
serving the rural community.
Any commercial forestry activities occurring in these zones should be compatible
with the existing agricultural land use and not result in the environmental
degradation of existing forest areas, farming land and natural waterways.
The distinction between the two zones is primarily based on the type of terrain,
with the Rural 1 zone covering the predominant low lying parts of the Shire with
the Rural 2 zone being located on higher terrain in the southern and eastern parts
of the shire, where grazing is the main agricultural activity.”
The Local Planning Policy in the Scheme had a strong emphasis on protection of the
rural landscape and the continued occupation of land for rural living and focussed
urban growth within or adjacent to urban centres. It acknowledged that the role of
land use planning was to further the interests of the community for both the present
and future. Stated objectives of the local policy were to prevent the indiscriminate or
premature subdivision of rural land, to have regard to water and flooding impacts and
to prevent inappropriate development in areas of fire hazard.
Subdivision and housing triggers in the Scheme for small lot options relied on a
tenement system where ownership at a certain date had to be demonstrated. The
small lot options were clearly flagged as one-off opportunities.
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 8
Zone
Subdivision – Minimum Lot
Size
Rural 1 (General
Farming)
40 hectares
Small lot options – excision of
dwelling 0.8-2 ha subject to
tenement provision with lot
existing on 29 July, 1992 being
greater than 40 ha, to increase
the size of a lot or to
realignment for land transfer as
part of farm restructure.
100 hectares
Small lot options – excision of
dwelling 0.8-2 ha subject to
tenement provision with lot
existing on 29 July, 1992 being
greater than 100 ha, to
increase the size of a lot or to
realignment for land transfer as
part of farm restructure.
Rural 2 (General
Farming)
Dwelling – Minimum
Lot Size Not Requiring
A Permit
40 hectares
Tenement provision
allowed 1 dwelling on lot
less than 40 ha that
existed on 29 July, 1992
100 hectares
Tenement provision
allowed 1 dwelling on lot
less than 100 ha that
existed on 29 July, 1992
Shire of Wangaratta
This scheme had a “Rural Land Local Policy” with an objective of maintaining the
Shire as a rural municipality with agriculture being the predominant role of the local
economy. It stated that the role of the rural zones and subdivision controls was:
“the enabling of agricultural land to be managed for long term environmental and
economic sustainability.”
It recognised that rural living and rural residential demand existed and had zones to
cater for this provision.
Zone
Rural 1 (Future
Urban)
Rural 2 (Rural
Residential)
Rural 3 (Rural Living)
Rural 4 (Small
Subdivision – Minimum
Lot Size
Dwelling – Minimum Lot
Size Not Requiring A
Permit
40 hectares, only exceptions All dwellings required a
related to public purposes
permit.
and increasing the size of
an existing lot.
0.4 to 2 hectares with
No permit required if lot
average lot size of 0.5 ha
created pursuant to
subdivision, or otherwise
permit required.
1 to 3 hectares with average No permit required if lot
lot size of 2 ha.
created pursuant to
subdivision, otherwise
permit required.
12 to 20 hectare range with No permit required if lot
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 9
Zone
Subdivision – Minimum
Lot Size
Farming)
average lot size of 16 ha
Rural 5 (Agricultural
Protection)
Excision 40 hectares,
provisions with balance
lot/tenement needing to be
greater than 40 ha, small lot
0.8-2 ha and once only
opportunity.
Prohibited other than for
public purposes including
roadworks.
80 hectares
Escarpment (Warby
Range)
Conservation ( Warby
Range)
Dwelling – Minimum Lot
Size Not Requiring A
Permit
created pursuant to
subdivision, otherwise
permit required.
One 40 hectare dwelling
may be allowed on a
smaller lot provided lot
existed on 25 May, 1977 or
a permit had been
previously granted.
Permit required
Permit required
City of Wangaratta
There was no specific rural policy in this Scheme which is not surprising considering
the urban nature of the majority of the municipality. However, one zone was tailored
to ensuring development on the floodplains on the Ovens and King Rivers had
adequate regard to flooding and risk to life, buildings and property.
The Rural zone was set aside for rural uses but importantly sought to ensure the
future urban use of the land was not compromised by inappropriate use,
development or subdivision.
Zone
Subdivision – Minimum
Lot Size
Rural Floodway
Small 40 hectare lot option
for lot for intensive
agriculture or for increasing
size of adjoining lot provided
it does not allow an
additional house to be
constructed.
Small 40 hectares, lot option
for lot for intensive
agriculture or for increasing
size of adjoining lot provided
it does not allow an
additional house to be
constructed.
Rural
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
Dwelling – Minimum Lot
Size Not Requiring A
Permit
40 hectares or on a lot
permitted by a planning
permit.
40 hectares or on a lot
permitted by a planning.
page 10
United Shire of Beechworth
This Scheme had no specific local policy but had detailed guidance through the use
of tenement controls to guide subdivision and housing with the tenement date being
the November, 1973.
Subdivision was allowed subject to a permit and tenement provisions at the following
ratio:
Less than 25 ha
no subdivision
25ha to 40ha
2 lots
40 ha to 100ha
3 lots
100 ha to 200 ha
4 lots
200 ha or greater
5 lots
Housing was also allowed subject to meeting the following tenement provisions:
Less than 25 ha
1 house
25ha to 40ha
2 houses
40 ha to 100ha
3 houses
100 ha to 200 ha
4 houses
200 ha or greater
5 houses.
Specific provisions were also included for the Rural A zone in the phasing out of
tobacco farming. This allowed, subject to permit, a subdivision of land on which the
principal house of the owner existed to create one new lot subject to:
1. the owner having no other interest in any other rural land in the municipality on
which houses exist;
2. the owner held an interest in Tobacco Growers Basic quota or temporary quota
for the 1992/93 season;
3. vacant lot to be created to be between 0.4 to 2 ha, land is not liable to flooding;
and
4. the application is lodged prior to 1 September, 1996.
Zone
Rural A
Forest
Subdivision – Minimum Lot Dwelling – Minimum Lot
Size
Size Not Requiring A
Permit
As per table but also allowed All houses require a permit
excision of dwelling if house
subject to conditions.
existed at November 1973
subject to conditions.
As per table above.
All houses require a planning
permit.
Shire of Yarrawonga
The Scheme recognised that the previous Shire of Yarrawonga as a predominantly
farming district other than the township of Yarrawonga. It recognised the importance
of the rural landscape and aimed to prevent the indiscriminate or premature
subdivision of rural land which may contribute to expectations of use or development
not in sympathy with the objectives of the local policy. The Scheme provided for
future urban and rural residential zones in addition to the rural zones as detailed
below.
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 11
Zone
Rural Farming
Rural Highway
Future Urban
Subdivision – Minimum Lot Dwelling – Minimum Lot
Size
Size Not Requiring A
Permit
Small 40 hectares, lot option All houses require a permit.
for excision where balance is Small lot options and
greater than 40 ha or provide tenement controls for 3
November, 1992.
a site for 1 additional house
Total number of houses must
on small lot if remainder of
not exceed 1 per 40 hectares
land is not less than 40 ha
of the tenement other than
and to provide a site for a
in specific cases.
house and/ for a family
member subject to tenement
existing on 3/11/1982 (one
off opportunity)
40 hectares, small lot option All houses require a permit.
for excision where balance is Total number of houses must
greater than 40 ha or provide not exceed 1 per 40 hectares
of the tenement other than in
a site for 1 additional house
specific cases.
on small lot if remainder of
land is not less than 40 ha
and/or to provide a site for a
house for a family member
subject to tenement existing
on 3/11/1982 (one off
opportunity)
40 hectares
Shire of Benalla
The part of the municipality now within the Rural City of Wangaratta is in the vicinity
of the Warby Ranges.
The Scheme had a definition of Rural House defined as:
“A house constructed on and occupied in conjunction with land with the Rural B or
Rural C zones, such land having an area of not less than 16 ha in the Rural B
zone or 40 hectares in the Rural C zone, on which there are no other buildings or
on which the only other buildings are buildings ordinarily incidental to the use and
enjoyment of a rural house or the use of land for rural purposes.”
The Scheme had a policy for this area titled Area of Natural Beauty Interest and
Importance which required consideration of native vegetation removal, preservation
of natural environment, environmental management to ensure no degradation to
areas and managing hazards.
Zone
Rural B
Subdivision – Minimum Lot Dwelling – Minimum Lot
Size
Size Not Requiring A
Permit
16 hectares, frontage of not
Rural House no permit
less than 300 metres.
required if on lot greater than
Excision provision exists for
16 ha and only house.
existing house or new house House, Section 2 use subject
site but lot must meet
to lot permitted by excision of
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 12
Zone
Rural C
Subdivision – Minimum Lot Dwelling – Minimum Lot
Size
Size Not Requiring A
Permit
minimum lot area.
a lot for existing or new
dwelling where all of land
has area of 16 ha or greater.
Rural House no permit
40 hectares,
required if on lot greater than
Excision provision exists for
existing house or new house 40 ha and only house.
House, Section 2 use subject
site but lot must meet
to lot permitted by excision of
minimum lot area.
a lot for existing or new
dwelling where all of land
has area of 40 ha or greater.
From 1999 to 2006 the zones that covered the rural areas of the municipality were:
Rural zone
Environmental Rural zone
Rural Living zone
An agricultural zone that had a wide range of uses
subject to a permit and a specific list of prohibited
uses. Agriculture was a use that did not require a
permit. The permit triggers for a dwelling and
subdivision were set at 40 hectares. Small lot
options for subdivision existed for excision of an
existing dwelling and realignment of boundaries.
There was no reference to one off opportunities, or
need for mandatory legal agreements.
The zone applied where the environmental values
were specified and such values took precedence
over agricultural activities. All dwellings required a
permit. Subdivision in this zone was set at 100
hectares; there was no excision provision but small
lot option for realignment of boundaries.
The zone provided for rural residential
development and had a minimum lot size, unless
varied by a local provision, of 8 hectares.
In 2006 the VPP zones applying to the rural areas were amended by the Minister
and the Wangaratta Planning Scheme through amendment C26 as follows:
Rural zone was amended
to Farming zone
This zone, through its objectives, clearly gave
agriculture prominence and as one of its purposes
distinctly discouraged uses including dwellings
which may impact on the use of land for
agriculture. The use table in the zone was
significantly changed with only specified uses
requiring a permit and all other uses then became
prohibited. Subdivision triggers remained the
same but the small lot options were enhanced
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 13
Environmental Rural zone
was amended to Rural
Conservation zone
including the need to enter into a mandatory
Section 173 agreement that provided for a
restriction on titles of land subdivided for excisions
to ensure no other existing dwelling could be
subdivided onto a small lot. For realignment of
boundaries the Section 173 agreement was to
provide that the land subject to the permit could
not be further subdivided to create any additional
lots.
There was very little change to the provisions
of the zone.
Rural Living zone was maintained.
2.3
Wangaratta Planning Scheme
Like all planning schemes in Victoria the Wangaratta Planning Scheme comprises a
State Planning Policy Framework (SPPF) and a Local Planning Policy Framework
(LPPF).
The SPPF comprises general principles for land use and development and specific
policies dealing with settlement, environment, housing, economic development,
infrastructure, and particular uses and development. To ensure integrated decisionmaking, planning authorities and responsible authorities must take account of and
give effect to the general principles and specific policies contained in the SPPF.
The LPPF sets a local and regional strategic policy context for a municipality. It
comprises and Municipal Strategic Statement and specific local policies.
The LPPF must not operate inconsistently with the SPPF and should where possible
demonstrate how broader state planning policies will be achieved or implement in a
local context.
If there is an inconsistency between the SPPPF and LPPF, the SPPF prevails.
2.4
State Planning Policy Framework (SPPF)
The SPPF outlines planning policy and land use themes that Council as both
planning and responsible authority, must take into account and give effect to in
planning and decision making.
The SPPF states that:
“Planning Authorities and responsible authorities should endeavour to integrate the
range of policies relevant to the issues to be determined and balance conflicting
objectives in favour of net community benefit and sustainable development for the
benefit of present and future generations.”
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 14
The SPPF follows themes and has a consistent format with each policy having
objectives, strategies for achieving the policy and policy guidance.
There are five policies with particular relevance to the DRLS:
Policy & objective
11.05-3
Rural Productivity
Strategy
Prevent inappropriately dispersed urban activities in
rural areas.
Objective
Limit new housing development in rural areas,
including:
• Directing housing growth into existing
settlements.
• Discouraging development of isolated small lots
in the rural zones from use for single dwellings,
rural living or other incompatible uses.
• Encouraging consolidation of existing isolated
small lots in rural zones.
To manage land use
change and
development in rural
areas to promote
agriculture and rural
production.
Protection of
agricultural land
Objective
To protect productive
farmland this is of
strategic significance in
the local or regional
context.
Sustainable
agricultural land use
Objective
To encourage
sustainable agricultural
land use.
Restructure old and inappropriate subdivisions.
• Ensure that the State’s agricultural base is
protected from the unplanned loss of productive
agricultural land due to permanent changes of
land use.
• Consult with the Department of Primary
Industries and utilise available information to
identify areas of productive agricultural land.
• Take into consideration regional, state and local
issues and characteristics in the assessment of
agricultural quality and productivity.
• Permanent removal of productive agricultural
land from the State's agricultural base must not
be undertaken without consideration of its
economic importance for the agricultural
production and processing sectors.
• Subdivision of productive agricultural land
should not detract from the long-term productive
capacity of the land.
•
Ensure agricultural and productive rural land
use activities are managed to maintain the longterm sustainable use and management of
existing natural resources.
•
Encourage sustainable agricultural and
associated rural land use and support and
assist the development of innovative
approaches to sustainable practices.
•
Support effective agricultural production and
processing infrastructure, rural industry and
farm-related retailing and assist genuine
farming enterprises to adjust flexibly to market
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 15
Policy & objective
Strategy
changes.
•
Facilitate the establishment and expansion of
cattle feedlots, piggeries, poultry farms and
other intensive animal industries in a manner
consistent with orderly and proper planning and
protection of the environment.
Forestry and timber
•
Promote the establishment of softwood and
production
hardwood plantations on predominantly cleared
land as well as other areas subject to or
Objective
contributing to land and water degradation.
•
Identify areas which may be suitably used and
To facilitate the
developed for plantation timber production.
establishment,
•
Ensure protection of water quality and soil.
management and
•
Ensure timber production in native forests is
harvesting of
conducted in a sustainable manner.
plantations, and
•
Timber production (except agro forestry,
harvesting of timber from
windbreaks and commercial plantations of 5
native forests.
hectares or less) is to be conducted in
accordance with the Code of Practice for
Timber Production (Department of Sustainability
and Environment 2007).
•
Ensuring Victoria’s greenhouse sinks are
protected and enhanced by controlling land
clearing, containing the growth of urban areas
and supporting re-vegetation programs.
Rural residential
•
Manage development in rural areas to protect
development
agriculture and avoid inappropriate rural
residential development.
Objective
•
Reduce the proportion of new housing
To identify land suitable
development provided in rural areas and
for rural living and rural
encourage the consolidation in existing
residential development.
settlements where investment in physical and
community infrastructure and services has
already been made.
•
Demonstrate need and identify locations for
rural residential development through a housing
and settlement strategy.
•
Ensure planning for rural living avoids or
significantly reduces adverse economic, social
and environmental impacts by:
•
Maintaining the long-term sustainable use
and management of existing natural
resource attributes in activities including
agricultural production, water, mineral and
energy resources.
•
Protecting existing landscape values and
environmental qualities such as water
quality, native vegetation, biodiversity and
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 16
Policy & objective
Strategy
•
•
•
•
2.5
habitat.
•
Minimising or avoiding property servicing
costs carried by local and State
governments.
Discouraging development of isolated small lots
in rural zones from use for rural living or other
incompatible uses.
Encouraging consolidation of existing isolated
small lots in rural zones.
Maintaining an adequate buffer distance
between rural residential development and
intensive animal husbandry. Ensure land is not
zoned for rural living or rural residential
development if it will encroach on high quality
productive agricultural land or adversely impact
on waterways or other natural resources.
Ensure land is only zoned for rural living or rural
residential development where it:
•
Is located close to existing towns and
urban centres, but not in areas that will be
required for fully serviced urban
development.
•
Can be supplied with electricity and water
and good quality road access.
Guidelines for Permit Applications in Catchment Areas
In May 2009 guidelines were adopted by the Minister. The guidelines apply to open
water supply catchments declared to be special water supply catchment areas. The
catchments of the Fifteen Mile Creek and the Ovens River have been declared. The
guidelines state that "...residential development and agriculture particularly have the
potential to impact adversely on water quality through the discharge of contaminated
run-off and wastes, nutrient contributions or sediment to water ways. Three key
sources of these pollutants - septic tank systems, agricultural practices and buildings
and works - are the focus of the guidelines."
There are five guidelines dealing with:
• Density of dwellings;
• Effluent disposal and septic tank system maintenance;
• Vegetated corridors and buffer zones along waterways;
• Buildings and works; and
• Agricultural activities.
Guideline 1 relating to Density of Dwellings is relevant to this review.
Where a planning permit is required to use land for a dwelling or to subdivide land:
►► the density of dwellings should be no greater than one dwelling per 40 hectares
(1:40 ha); and
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 17
►► each lot created in the subdivision should be at least 40 hectares in area.
2.6
Local Planning Policy Framework (LPPF)
The LPPF is divided into 2 distinct sections being the Municipal Strategic Statement
and Local Planning Policies.
The Municipal Strategic Statement (MSS) builds on the SPPF and adds key
directions and strategies for land use and development. It links to and builds on the
Council Plan and sets out objectives and constraints for consideration for future
strategic planning and for making decisions on applications on a day to day basis.
Local policies further define the strategies and provide explicit expectations or
outcomes sought by applying the policy. Policies can be use or area specific and
are intended to be of assistance in understanding Council’s direction and how a
proposal will be considered.
Municipal Strategic Statement (MSS)
The vision for the municipality is a long term community-created approach for land
use planning until the year 2030. This vision is an integrated approach that includes
social, economic and environmental considerations. Core components of this vision
are that the municipality and community will:
•
Be a vibrant, diverse and secure place to live;
•
Facilitate a growing and sustainable economy and employment base; and
•
Preserve and enhance our heritage and the environment.
Of relevance to this strategy are the following strategic directions:
Rural Land Use and
Agriculture
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Encourage the growth and development of
environmentally and economically sustainable
agricultural enterprises.
Recognise and protect agriculture and other rural uses
as significant economic strengths, social capital and
productive resources.
Maintain the productivity and versatility of agricultural
land, particularly in higher agricultural productivity and
versatility areas.
Establish the municipality as the primary centre for the
wine industry in north eastern Victoria.
Minimise potential amenity impacts between rural
agricultural uses and rural lifestyle uses, particularly in
higher agricultural productivity and versatility areas.
Maintain and enhance the potential for viticultural use
and development particularly in the Milawa, Oxley and
King Valley areas.
Ensure that any subdivision and rural housing
proposals in higher agricultural productivity and
versatility areas are directly linked to an agricultural
use, retain productive agricultural use of the land and
area, protect the economic potential of the land and
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 18
•
•
Subdivision and
housing
•
•
Rural townships and
settlements
•
•
•
Economic
development and
tourism
Environmental
Management and
area for agriculture, and are not used for rural lifestyle
purposes.
Encourage and protect the potential for intensive
animal industries, such as broiler farms, in appropriate
locations.
Support timber production and processing as locational
and economic strengths of the area and region.
Ensure that rural subdivision and housing is provided
with a level of infrastructure that is required for that use
or development.
Ensure that any subdivision of land for ‘house lot
excision’ maintains the agricultural land resource by
minimising the parcel size of an existing house that is
to be excised and maintaining a large vacant balance
of land for agricultural purposes.
Promote effective reticulated water and sewerage in
rural townships that protects public health and
enhances the environment.
Maintain and enhance rural townships for lifestyle,
economic performance and a range of residential use
and development.
Protect and enhance the appearance, character,
tourism potential and economic performance of
gateway approaches into rural towns.
Specific recommendations are then made for Glenrowan,
Milawa and Oxley, and rural residential development.
• Encourage and provide a diverse range of tourist
opportunities and facilities.
• Promote tourism through strategic marketing of the key
product strengths of food and wine, jazz, cycling,
textiles and Ned Kelly.
• Maintain and enhance the municipality as a significant
hub for the Legends, Wine and High Country Region
and for its eco-tourism experiences.
• Maintain the area as an outstanding destination for
wineries and gourmet food experience, particularly in
the Milawa/Oxley and the King Valley gourmet region.
• Promote a wide range of accommodation facilities
catering for large numbers of visitors.
• Promote and develop tourism attractions and
opportunities, particularly those opportunities based on
local economic, geographic and community strengths.
• Enhance touring route options.
• Protect the landscape values and economic potential of
tourist routes from land use and development that will
compromise these values.
Native vegetation and biodiversity:
• Implement ‘net gain’ goals for native vegetation and the
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 19
Heritage
recovery of threatened species and communities
through the application of the Victorian Native
Vegetation Framework.
• Recognise, protect and enhance biodiversity values,
ecosystem health and remnant vegetation, including
scattered trees, roadsides and native grasslands.
• Increase biodiversity values through the reestablishment and regeneration of native vegetation,
provision of bio-corridors between areas of remnant
native vegetation and protection of remnant paddock
trees.
• Recognise, protect and enhance biodiversity values
and remnant vegetation on roadsides, including
specific planning protection of roadsides designated as
‘high’ conservation significance under the Rural City of
Wangaratta Roadside Management Strategy, July
2000.
• Ensure all land use and development proposals
affecting native vegetation fully document the presence
and significance of native vegetation and avoid any
adverse impacts on biodiversity values, particularly the
clearance of native vegetation.
• Design and construct subdivision and development
proposals on a land capability basis to identify, protect
and enhance existing native vegetation through
selecting building and works sites to avoid the
clearance of native vegetation.
Catchment, waterways and water supply:
• Ensure the protection of water quality through the
implementation of the Water Quality Guidelines for
Northeastern Victoria, including protection of riparian
environments and the provision of adequate setbacks
for buildings and development from waterways, water
storages and Heritage Rivers.
• Protect and enhance water quality through the
provision of riparian buffers to retain and re-establish
riparian vegetation.
• Protect and enhance high priority waterways identified
in the North East River Health
Strategy 2004.
• Ensure sustainable, high quality water supply to
promote healthy ecosystems in conjunction with land
use and development.
• Protect groundwater quality from effluent disposal
systems and other urban and agricultural uses,
particularly in the rural townships of Milawa and Oxley.
• Recognise and protect the natural functions of
floodplains and the need to restrict subdivision,
buildings and works in floodplains in accordance with
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 20
flood hazard.
• Protect heritage rivers and adjacent land from use and
development that would compromise the cultural and
historic significance of the rivers.
• Provide healthy working waterways that support
healthy ecosystems and sustainable community use.
Other environmental issues:
• Recognise and protect natural resource and natural
hazard areas, including wetlands on private land.
• Recognise and protect significant landscapes,
ridgelines, escarpments and hilltops through the
sensitive siting and design of buildings and use of
muted tone building materials and colours.
• Protect the landscape and biodiversity values of steep,
vegetated private land in the Warby Ranges from
inappropriate development siting, design and building
materials.
• Enhance the municipality’s image as a liveable and
environmentally sustainable area through the reduction
of potential greenhouse gas emissions in planning for
future land use and development.
• Support activities that deal with degradation of the
environmental and agricultural value of land.
• Enhance the natural environment, improve visual
amenity, provide habitat corridors and provide strategic
tree planting.
• Avoid degradation of environmental or agricultural
values caused by detrimental effects of land
development, such as erosion, salinity and acidity.
• Promote the responsible use of resources, particularly
water and energy.
Heritage
•
Protect and enhance the heritage and cultural
significance of the Glenrowan township, in accordance
with the Glenrowan Masterplan 2002, including
undertaking a detailed design for the sensitive and
appropriate re-establishment of the Kelly Gang Siege
Site.
Local Policies
The Local Planning Policies of relevance to the DRLS include:
Policy
Objectives
Housing and sheds in rural areas
• Ensure that new dwellings do not
The agricultural sector is a significant
undermine the productive agricultural
economic industry and social
base of the municipality, particularly in
resource in the municipality. Rural
‘very high’ and ‘high’ agricultural
housing that is not associated with
versatility areas.
dedicated rural and agricultural
• Ensure that dwellings do not adversely
activities can potentially undermine
impact on the rural and agricultural
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 21
Policy
Objectives
activities carried out on the land and
the viability of the rural sector.
the general area.
Housing for lifestyle purposes in rural
areas has the potential to create
• Avoid potential amenity impacts
demand for community and physical
between rural activities/agricultural
infrastructure that may be more
production and dwellings in rural areas,
appropriately located in dedicated
protecting primary producers from
rural living areas. The appearance of
complaints based on perceived
rural buildings is also important given
residential amenity rights.
the high visual quality of landscapes
• Ensure that housing in rural areas
in the municipality.
support rural activities and production
and is not undertaken to meet rural
lifestyle objectives that may conflict
with the rural use of the land.
• Provide an adequate standard of
infrastructure for dwellings.
Subdivision in rural areas
• Ensure that land subdivision does not
The agricultural sector is a significant
diminish the productive agricultural
economic industry and social
capacity of the land or general area,
resource in the municipality. Rural
particularly in ‘high’ or ‘very high’
subdivision that is not associated
agricultural versatility areas.
with dedicated rural and agricultural
• Ensure that any subdivision of land is
activities can potentially undermine
for the rural or agricultural use and
the viability of the rural sector
development of land, rather than for
through amenity impacts, loss of
rural lifestyle lots or development.
productive agricultural land, use of
• Ensure an adequate standard of
infrastructure and water that could be
infrastructure for rural land subdivision.
used for agricultural production, and
land values exceeding agricultural
value. Rural subdivision has the
potential to create demand for
community and physical
infrastructure that may be more
appropriately located in dedicated
rural living areas.
Ridgelines, Escarpments and
• Protect the landscape and scenic
Hilltops
quality of highly visible elevated areas.
The rural landscape of the
• Limit development on or near
municipality is an important natural
prominent ridgelines, escarpments and
asset that requires protection from
hilltops, or on or near other visually
inappropriate land use and
prominent land features.
development. In particular, many
ridgelines, escarpments and hilltops
can be seen in the distance from
almost anywhere in the municipality,
including many public places,
thoroughfares and tourist routes. The
visual and environmental
implications of development on or in
the vicinity of these valued
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 22
Policy
Objectives
landscape features can degrade the
attractiveness and visual quality of
the area.
Wineries and cellar door sales
• Ensure that wineries and their cellar
The development of the wine
door sales facilities are compatible with
industry is an integral part of the
the rural character of the area, and
Council’s tourism and agriculture
compatible with the environmental and
strategy, with wineries providing a
aesthetic character of surrounding rural
significant tourism destination. This
land.
policy aims to provide guidance to
• Ensure that cellar door sales
Council in assessing applications for
operations do not adversely affect
wineries and cellar door sales
surrounding land uses and residents.
facilities to achieve high quality
• Ensure that wineries can be provided
design and the provision of suitable
with adequate infrastructure.
tourist amenities.
• Ensure that adequate car and bus
For the purposes of definition (refer
parking is provided on-site.
to Clause 74 of the Victoria Planning
Provisions), ‘winery’ means:
Land used to display, and sell by
retail, vineyard products, in
association with the growing of grape
vines and the manufacture of the
vineyard products. It may include the
preparation and sale of food and
drink for consumption on the
premises.
2.7
Definitions
There are a number of land use terms and categories relevant to consideration of the
current and future use of rural land. Some of these have readily acceptable
definitions or are defined in the Planning Scheme, the framework to which this
strategy will apply; others will be referenced from other source material or common
understanding.
The following list, compiled during the course of the DRLS may be further refined or
supplemented with additional terms.
Definitions in Wangaratta Planning Scheme
General Terms
Agricultural Production: Any form of primary production of renewable
commodities, excluding extractive industries, mining, or timber production from
native forest.
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 23
Earthworks: Land forming, laser grading, levee banks, raised access roads and
tracks, building pads, storage embankments, channel banks and drain banks and
associated structures.
High Quality Productive Agricultural Land: Land which is used for animal
husbandry or crop raising, and is capable of continuing to sustain agricultural
production, and:
a) is of prime, or very good, agricultural quality, having regard to soil type, growing
season, and availability of infrastructure, and is of sufficient extent to support
agricultural activities on an economically viable scale; or
b) has been identified through a regional, sub-regional, or local study as being of
particularly good quality and strategic significance for agriculture in the regional
or local context.
Land Capability Assessment: The assessment of the physical ability of the land to
sustain specific uses having regard to its management and without long term on-site
detriment to the environment.
Lot: A part (consisting of one or more pieces) of any land (except a road, a reserve,
or common property) shown on a plan, which can be disposed of separately and
includes a unit or accessory unit on a registered plan of strata subdivision and a lot
or accessory lot on a registered cluster plan.
Mineral: Any substance which occurs naturally as part of the earth's crust, including:
a) oil shale and coal; and
b) hydrocarbons and mineral oils contained in oil shale or coal, or extracted from
oil shale or coal by chemical or industrial processes.
It does not include water, stone, or petroleum.
Native Vegetation: Plants that are indigenous to Victoria, including trees, shrubs,
herbs, and grasses.
Property Vegetation Plan: A plan which relates to the management of native
vegetation within a property, and which is contained within an agreement made
pursuant to section 69 of the Conservation, Forests and Lands Act 1987.
Stone: Basalt, freestone, granite, limestone, sandstone, or other building stone, or
rock, ordinarily used for building, manufacturing, road making, or construction; or
clay (not fine clay, bentonite, or kaolin), earth, gravel, quartz (not quartz crystals),
sand, soil, slate or other similar material.
Sustainable Agriculture: The use of farming practices and systems which maintain
or enhance:
a) the economic viability of agricultural production;
b) the natural resource base; and
c) other ecosystems which are influenced by agricultural activities.
Tenement: Land comprised in:
a) a lot which does not adjoin another lot in the same ownership;
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 24
or
b) lots in the same ownership and which adjoin each other.
Lots are considered to adjoin each other if they are separated only by a stream,
stream reserve, or unmade or unused government road or rail reserve.
Land Use Terms
Agriculture: Land used to:
a) propagate, cultivate or harvest plants, including cereals, flowers, fruit, seeds,
trees, turf, and vegetables;
b) keep, breed, board, or train animals, including livestock, and birds; or
c) propagate, cultivate, rear, or harvest living resources of the sea or inland waters.
Animal Boarding: Land used to board domestic pets, such as boarding kennels and
a cattery.
Animal Husbandry: Land used to keep, breed, board, or train animals, including
birds.
Animal Keeping: Land used to:
a) breed or board domestic pets; or
b) keep, breed, or board racing dogs.
Animal Training: Land used to train animals.
Apiculture: Land used to keep honeybee hives and to extract honey or other bee
hive products.
Aquaculture: Land used to keep or breed aquatic animals, or cultivate or propagate
aquatic plants.
Bed And Breakfast: A dwelling used, by a resident of the dwelling, to provide
accommodation for persons away from their normal place of residence.
Broiler Farm: Land used to keep broiler chickens which are housed permanently in
sheds and reared for meat production.
Cattle Feedlot: Land used to keep and fatten cattle which are restrained by pens or
enclosures and intensively fed.
Crop Raising: Land used to propagate, cultivate or harvest plants, including cereals,
flowers, fruit, seeds, trees, turf, and vegetables.
Extensive Animal Husbandry: Land used to keep or breed farm animals, including
birds, at an intensity where the animals' main food source is obtained by grazing,
browsing, or foraging on plants grown on the land. It includes:
a) emergency and supplementary feeding; and
b) the incidental penning and housing of animals, including birds, for brooding,
weaning, dipping, or other husbandry purposes.
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 25
Extractive Industry: Land used for the extraction or removal of stone from land for
commercial use, or to use the stone for building, construction, road or manufacturing
works. It includes the treatment of stone or the manufacture of bricks, tiles, pottery,
or cement products on, or adjacent to, the land from which the stone is extracted.
Horticulture: Land used to propagate, cultivate, or harvest flowers, fruit, vegetables,
vines, or the like.
Host Farm: A farm used to provide accommodation for persons, away from their
normal place of residence, to experience farm living.
Intensive Animal Husbandry: Land used to keep or breed farm animals, including
birds, by importing most food from outside the enclosures. It does not include:
a) an abattoir or sale yard;
b) emergency and supplementary feeding if incidental to the use of land for
extensive animal husbandry; or
c) the penning and housing of animals, including birds, for brooding, weaning,
dipping or other husbandry purposes if incidental to the use of land for extensive
animal husbandry.
Natural Systems: Land in substantially its natural state which is used to maintain
ecological systems, or to preserve an area of historic, scientific, aesthetic, or cultural
significance.
Primary Produce Sales: Land used to sell unprocessed primary produce, grown on
the land or adjacent land.
Rural Industry: Land used to:
a) handle, treat, process, or pack agricultural produce; or
b) service or repair plant, or equipment, used in agriculture.
Rural Store: Land used to store unprocessed agricultural produce, or products used
in agriculture.
Saleyard: Land used to hold, sell, and buy farm animals.
Sawmill: Land used to handle, cut, and process timber from logs.
Timber Production: Land used to propagate, cultivate, manage and harvest timber.
Winery: Land used to display and sell by retail, vineyard products, in association
with the growing of grape vines and the manufacture of the vineyard products. It may
include the preparation and sale of food and drink for consumption on the premises.
Other Definitions of words generally used in the Strategy:
(From Treechange: The Impacts of Lifestyle Living on Rural Lands in the Mudgee
Region, Caitlin Elliott pg. 17).
Lifestyle Living: The concept that refers to movement of people from large urban
areas to rural and regional areas for the purpose of lifestyle changes. People
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 26
participating in lifestyle living choose to live in both urban and rural areas, however a
large proportion move to rural areas.
Rural Residential Development: The residential use of rural land. This includes
people living on rural lots primarily for residential purposes rather than agricultural
purposes. Hobby farming is undertaken by some rural residential development but
most of the income comes from pursuits not carried out on the land. The main
difference between urban housing and rural residential housing is the larger lot sizes
and larger distances between dwellings. Rural residential development can be
divided into two categories, rural fringe and rural living (Sinclair and Bunker, 2007
pg4.)
Treechangers: The group of people moving from large urban settlements to less
urban areas in rural and regional Australia, generally for lifestyle reasons.
2.8
Conclusions
Protecting agricultural land from inappropriate land uses and providing for
consideration of subdivision and new dwellings in farming zones has been a long
established objective of rural planning in the municipality.
Prior to 1999 the Schemes provided for:
• a range of lot sizes but a 40 hectare minimum was part of this package.
• subdivision and housing for family purposes and generally allowed small lot
excisions;
• tenement provisions were actively used as a tool for considering development
which considered land holdings at a specific date; and
• one or two off opportunities, not for multiple subdivisions of the one parcel.
Since the introduction of the VPP Planning Schemes:
• 40 hectare rule became the norm;
• planning policy to protect agricultural land from inappropriate land use was both
recognised in the local and state provisions;
• 2006 zone changes from Rural to Farming and resultant policy and provision
changes tightened the objectives of the zones and introduced mandatory
agreements for subdivision; and
• Rural productivity policy is intended to prevent urban activities, limit new
housing and discourage development of isolated small lots in rural areas.
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 27
Chapter 3
Other Relevant Plans, Planning Projects and
Government Policy
A number of projects, auspiced by the Commonwealth and State governments and
Council, are relevant to this Strategy.
3.1
Wangaratta 2030 Community Vision
The Rural City of Wangaratta 2030 Community Vision, completed in 2008, involved
an extensive process to capture and reflect the community’s views, ideas, hopes,
aspirations and priorities for the long-term future of the region.
While the Wangaratta Rural City Council auspiced the project and facilitated its
development, the Community Vision belongs to the community of the Rural City of
Wangaratta.
A community engagement program that involved public forums, stakeholder
workshops, public polling, a community survey and submissions, was undertaken.
More than 600 community members participated.
The Vision emphasises the need for a sustainable balance between developments in
urban and rural environments.
“In 2030, the Rural City of Wangaratta maintains a sustainable balance between
urban and rural environments; each benefiting from the other. It is characterised
by a regional centre in Wangaratta, surrounded by many unique and distinct
townships and rural areas. The different attributes and roles of each of the
townships is understood and respected. It is the diversity of localities that make
the Rural City of Wangaratta such an interesting, vibrant and enjoyable place to
live and visit.”
The Vision also sees rural townships growing in size to meet service needs. Rural
townships are also the point to concentrate rural residential properties so as to
enable access to services and infrastructure. The protection of high value
agricultural land and its preservation for agriculture is also seen as a priority.
The Vision identifies the following key steps that have significance for rural land
planning.
• Undertake detailed reviews and updates of land zonings around rural townships
to accommodate planned growth.
• Plan for and progressively facilitate the extension of essential services into rural
areas.
• Further promote the unique attractions of rural townships and areas to existing
and potential tourists.
• Review and update land-use zoning to strengthen protection of agricultural land
for agricultural activities; set aside suitable areas for future industry growth;
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 28
provide for future residential growth in both Wangaratta and around rural
townships.”
All of these key steps are being actively pursued by Council or other agencies. The
review and update of rural land zoning is perhaps one of the most important of these
steps.
3.2
King Valley Masterplan
A Masterplan for the King Valley is currently being prepared by Council in recognition
of the significant level of private sector investment undertaken in the King Valley and
Milawa/Oxley region together with substantially increased consumer awareness of
the King Valley/Milawa food and wine tourism.
The key objectives of the study are to:
• Ascertain the limit, extent and priorities of future economic development in the
King Valley and Milawa Gourmet Region;
• Acknowledge and further develop the existing character attributes for the region
and townships; and
• Determine what services and infrastructure are needed to support the above
objectives.
At the time of preparing this background paper the King Valley Master Plan process
had not been concluded.
3.3
Wangaratta Economic Development Strategy, 2008 – 2011
The Wangaratta Economic Development Strategy sets out the following strategic
directions:
• Reinforce Wangaratta’s position as a regional hub;
• Encourage balanced population growth;
• Build on our competitive advantages; and
• Further strengthen our education and employment base.
Actions of particular relevance to this strategy include:
• Collaborate with the Alpine Valleys Agribusiness Forum to develop a
“Marketing Prospectus” for the Food Bowl concept;
• Develop a strategy for agribusiness; and
• Leverage existing industries, clusters and supply chains.
3.4
Wangaratta Tourism Industry Strategic Plan, 2010 – 2013
The Tourism Industry Strategic Plan documents Council’s vision for tourism:
Wangaratta will be recognised as Australia’s home of jazz, offering a great country
experience of premium food and wine, iconic Kelly history and cycling opportunities
amidst the backdrop of breath-taking Alpine valley scenery.
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
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Strategic actions relevant to this rural land strategy include:
• Capitalise on the Wangaratta – Oxley/Milawa cycle paths as providing a loop
experience to the gourmet region;
• Continue to develop a network of shared pathways that facilitate access
between townships; and
• Develop a masterplan for the King Valley.
3.5
Community Plans
Several local communities have produced development or improvement plans for
their localities. Rural land use planning has been identified as an issue or priority
need in several of these Community Plans.
The following table summarises these matters.
Community
Priority Need
Aim
Plan
Boorhaman and
Agriculture
To improve
North
-maintain
farming practice
Boorhaman
productive land for
through
food & commodity
strengthening
production.
relationships with
Landcare and
increase
participation in
Landcare
activities.
Maintain farming
Carboor
Agribusines
as a business into
• Maintaining
farming lifestyle the future.
• Animal & soil
health
• viability
• DPI
Murmungee
Zoning & Water
To review existing
Sub-division
rural/township
Hard rubbish
zonings.
Agri-business
Profitable
Preservation
El Dorado
Retaining small
town image –
village life
• Aesthetics
• Streetscape
To encourage
sustainable agribusiness and
preserve
agricultural lands.
To ensure a
planned approach
is taken when
considering future
development.
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
Goal
Improved farm
productivity and
increase
participation rates
in Landacare
activities.
Land size viable
for agribusiness
with limitation on
lifestyle blocks.
Zoning reflects
existing
development and
allows for future
town
development.
Future
development to
reflect the village
appearance of the
town which is
page 30
Community
Plan
Priority Need
Everton
Zoning
Milawa and
Markwood
Zoning – lifestyle
rural
Moyhu
Zoning/Planning
Whorouly
3.6
Zoning
• flood overlay
• block sizes
• maintain
community
• growth
• population
(school)
Aim
To grow the
township by
increasing
residential blocks.
An informed
community to
manage rezoning
to protect the
village lifestyle.
Allow for
development in
the Moyhu
township.
Work towards
development
options that
enable flexibility in
planning.
Goal
valued by the
residents.
Subdivision
approval.
Existing &
potential zoning
arrangements
researched.
Amend zoning to
create residential
housing for
population density
in township.
Flexible options
within the
proposed
Planning Scheme
that fits Whorouly.
Landscape Character Assessment
In 2009 a landscape study was carried out to:
• Identify, map and assess the existing distinctive landscape elements and
features within the Rural City of Wangaratta;
• Undertake a detailed rural landscape assessment; place a value on each
distinctive feature and provide commentary as to the appropriate level of
protection required, if any, in each case;
• Provide recommendations as to the form of planning controls appropriate for
inclusion in a Planning Scheme Amendment to implement the findings and
conclusions; and
• Build on the community aspirations as articulated in the Rural City of
Wangaratta 2030 Community Vision.
The study made a number of recommendations to address gaps in the State and
Local Planning Policy Framework, including the following:
• Include a clause in the Municipal Strategic Statement that relates specifically to
landscape character and significance. This should refer to the range of
landscape types and areas across the municipality, common patterns of
viewing landscapes and possible threats to their integrity;
• Introduce a new Local Policy - Landscape Management; and
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 31
•
Reference the Landscape Assessment Study as a source of further information
about landscape character.
The study also recommended the inclusion of the following changes to the
Wangaratta Planning Scheme:
• Apply the Significant Landscape Overlay to the King Valley area generally
south of Moyhu to south of Whitfield including all land below a general contour
level of 200m. This is a visually significant area sensitive to unsympathetic
development. The landscape study recommends that the Significant Landscape
Overlay below the 200m AHD contour forming an area of protection between
the adjoining areas in the Public Conservation and Resource Zone.
• Apply the Significant Landscape Overlay to a 500m wide ribbon of land
alongside the Hume Freeway, from the Glenrowan Gap which forms the
foreground of the vista from the Freeway across the Ovens and King River flats
towards the Great Dividing Range including Mt Buffalo. The view corridor from
the Hume Freeway is a significant gateway into Wangaratta for motorists
travelling north with wide vistas and long range views across farmland to the
distant ranges. It is important to maintain this landscape free of buildings,
structure and signage as these built elements can dominate and conceal the
natural landscape.
• A revised schedule for the existing Significant Landscape Overlay applying to
the Warby Ranges west of Wangaratta. The existing overlay boundary
accurately reflects the area of significance, however more information regarding
the significance of the area and circumstances when vegetation removal is
warranted, should be considered.
3.7
Review of Rural Landscape Assessment Study
Recommendations
In January 2012, a review of the 2009 report was completed.
King Valley: The review recommended an alternative approach to the proposed
Significant Landscape Overlay. What is now proposed is the introduction of a new
Local Policy, dealing with general siting and design guidelines. In addition, a
schedule to the Farming zone be amended so that a building within 200 metres of
the Wangaratta Whitfield Road and the King Valley Road requires a planning permit.
Glenrowan: The review recommended that the Significant Landscape Overlay be
applied along the eastern side of the Hume Freeway (500 metres in width) from the
Laceby Glenrowan Road to the Glenrowan Myrtleford Road.
3.8
Regional Catchment Strategy
The North East Regional Catchment Strategy sets out the following vision: “to
achieve diverse, healthy landscapes and vibrant communities not only for those
involved now but for generations to come”.
The strategy does not nominate any specific actions for local government but noted
that local government is “an important influence on natural resource management
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 32
through its responsibilities for land-use planning, development approvals, programs
that aim to conserve and improve the environment (e.g. Roadside Management
Plans, Stormwater Quality Plans), rates and a variety of services such as road
construction and maintenance. Local government also owns and manages large
areas of land.”
3.9
Securing our Natural Future: Land and Biodiversity White
paper
The White Paper identified climate change, population growth and land use change
as drivers of change for Victoria’s landscapes and environments.
“Victoria’s agricultural and forestry sectors will be significantly impacted by climate
change. Land managers will face greater uncertainty and risk. Invasive species may
increase and extend their range and new or dormant pest plants and animals may
emerge. On the positive side, it is possible that climate change may reduce the
distribution of other pests. Water stress may drive a shift in agriculture towards less
intensive production, or new activities that suit changed local conditions. Primary
industries will inevitably adapt to changed conditions. New crop varieties that are
drought-tolerant, or less water intensive, will be developed.
Demographic changes result in changes to land use. As the population grows and
consumption increases agricultural land will be under increased pressure for
example, from demand for new housing and other infrastructure. Shifting
populations can bring new rural landowners who may lack experience in natural
resource management.”
The White Paper outlines three inter-related elements in a new framework for action.
• Build resilience of Victoria’s ecosystems.
• Manage flagship areas to maintain vital ecosystem services.
• Improve connectivity within important landscapes identified as biolinks.
RCoW is entirely made up of either flagship areas (mainly the Ovens River system)
or biolinks.
The White Paper proposed the establishment of Natural Resource and Catchment
Authorities. The Northern Rivers NRCA was to replace the North East CMA as well
as the Goulburn Broken and North Central CMA’s.
The NRCAs were to expand their role and become referral authorities for planning
matters beyond floodway management. The White Paper also proposed that
NRCAs were to develop capacity to support Local Government decision making.
This was to be to do with the natural resource implications of strategic planning
decisions and providing up-to-date data, guidance and assistance to planning
authorities in the application of planning instruments, such as overlays and
associated schedules.
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 33
The relevance of the strategy and actions set out in the White Paper are uncertain
given the change in government nevertheless the forecast changes to rural land use
are still of relevance.
3.10
Bushfire Royal Commission
The Bushfire Royal Commission made a number of recommendations that will effect
development of rural areas. At the time of preparing this Strategy, responses to a
number of recommendations were still being developed or implemented.
The actions taken and proposed, that are relevant to rural land use planning, are
summarised below.
• Detailed hazard mapping is expected to be completed by July 2012 for selected
high risk, high priority areas that will assist the development of improved local
land use and bushfire plans and policies.
• The new State Planning Policy now specifically discourages the development of
small isolated rural lots and addresses the impacts of climate change and
natural hazards, including bushfire, on new development.
• The statutory tools for regulating development on small lots in high bushfire risk
areas with other planning provisions for bushfire will be reviewed by the
Department of Planning and Community Development. A minimum lot size will
be a part of this package if it is determined to be the most effective tool.
• The Country Fire Authority will amend its guidelines for assessing permit
applications for dwellings, non-dwellings and subdivisions in the Bushfire-prone
Overlay. The revised guidelines should substantially restrict new developments
and subdivisions in those areas of highest risk in the Bushfire-prone Overlay.
3.11
The Hume Strategy for Sustainable Communities
The Hume Strategy for Sustainable Communities is an integrated strategic plan for
the State Government’s Hume region. The Hume region consists of four subregions. The local government areas of the Rural Cities of Wangaratta and Benalla
and the Alpine and Mansfield Shires make up the Central Hume sub-region. The
Hume Strategy for Sustainable Communities and the Central Hume Sub Regional
Plan are set out under five themes of environment, community, economy, transport
and land use.
The land use theme aims to create “An efficient and sustainable pattern for urban
and rural land use and development”.
There are four key directions under this theme. Two of the key directions are
relevant to this strategy. These are:
• Directing future population growth to settlements with the greatest capacity to
accommodate it; and
• Retaining productive rural land for agriculture and other compatible rural uses.
Actions proposed that are relevant to this Strategy are:
• Identify areas of biodiversity value within the Farming Zone and utilise Planning
Scheme tools as appropriate to ensure protection of biodiversity assets;
• Utilise the Ovens Aquifer to support new economic opportunities.
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 34
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Develop Hume Region specific responses to the ‘Future Farms’ planning
project;
Plan for future agricultural opportunities such as relocation of operations from
other regions and Melbourne into Hume Region;
Encourage state and local governments to collaborate on and consolidate
existing local rural land use strategies and encourage other local studies where
gaps are evident;
Investigate the impact of changes in the agricultural sector on the viability of
small towns;
Investigate the demand and options for a diversity of housing choice in small
settlements providing housing options that may not be available in larger urban
areas;
Investigate the role and function of smaller settlements such as Oxley, Milawa
and Glenrowan within the overall network of settlements in the Central Hume
sub region;
Develop a model strategy framework for rural land use planning and undertake
a Regional Rural Land Use Study, building on work already undertaken by
individual councils, and incorporating policy directions arising from the Future
Farming Rural Planning Group. Such a study would be aligned with relevant
state policy such as the Land and Biodiversity White Paper and would attempt
to overlay agricultural capability, environmental constraints and opportunities,
infrastructure, and economic and social issues;
Continue with the implementation of a new suite of rural zones by developing
and implementing rural land use strategies at a local/sub regional level;
Compile, and make available to landholders and investors, information on
alternative agricultural enterprises and land uses potentially suitable to sub
regions across the Hume Region. Information would include identification of
opportunities and constraints for different enterprises, impacts of climate
change scenarios on potential enterprises, and gross margin analyses;
Further investigate and, where appropriate, facilitate the establishment of
suitable areas zoned specifically for the development of mutually compatible
intensive agricultural industries, similar to the Strathbogie Intensive Agricultural
Area (SIAA) proposal; and
Continue to develop and implement rural land use strategies at a local/subregional level, which for the Central Hume sub-region should specifically
consider the following factors:
o The future use of land formerly used for tobacco production;
o The protection of rural land from expanding inappropriate housing
development to support quality agricultural production;
o Conflict between more intensive agriculture and the need to preserve the
rural landscape;
o Security of water supply for agriculture;
o Conflict between the demand for rural lifestyle opportunities and the
protection of agricultural land; and
o The sustainable accommodation of the full range of rural land uses
(including environmental uses).
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 35
3.12
Future Farms Strategy
In 2008, the Victorian State Government announced the Future Farming Strategy
outlining investment in the State’s agricultural sector. As part of the Strategy, the
Minister for Planning appointed a Rural Planning Group to make recommendations
on how the planning system could better support the agricultural industry.
The Rural Planning Group made 59 recommendations.
Many of these recommendations require changes to State policy. However, there
are other recommendations that can be implemented at the local level and should be
considered as part of this review.
Actions requiring amendments to State policy are listed below.
• Identify those parts of the state’s rural areas that will be primarily set aside for
agricultural and primary production.
• Explicitly recognise the ‘right to farm’ principle.
• Separate the right to subdivide rural land from the right or expectation to
develop the land for a dwelling.
• In conjunction with the above, abandon the requirement for minimum lot sizes
applicable to the subdivision of rural land.
• Make provision for the concept of a rural house being a dwelling that is
occupied and used by those who use the land upon which the dwelling is
located for primary production purposes, or in conjunction with rural industry or
natural systems. There would be no minimum lot size for the requirement of a
permit. However, a permit for a ‘Rural house’ might be required for the house
only for the above-mentioned purposes. Alternatively, differential rating
provisions could provide a worthwhile rate rebate if the house is genuinely
being used by persons working on the land.
• Reintroduce tenement provisions
• Make ‘Dwelling’ in rural zones a prohibited use.
• In areas identified as ‘farmland of strategic significance’, excisions may be
permitted where they are part of a package of structural adjustment measures
in a defined agricultural district.
• Address the establishment of more sustainable communities in rural areas. This
is to be achieved through identification of hierarchies of settlements, with clear
direction about the intended service role and growth potential of the settlement,
the range of services and infrastructure to be supported and the diversity of
housing and employment opportunities to be offered.
• Require settlement strategies to demonstrate how they have responded to the
threat of wildfire and the recommendations of the Victorian Bushfire Royal
Commission, before they can be approved.
• Secure the preparation of biodiversity enhancement and protection strategies
as part of regional land use and development planning initiatives.
• Create and apply an additional overlay to declared water catchments and other
identified recharge areas, strengthening and clarifying the protection from
discharges to be provided.
• Integrate into the planning system recommendations of the Land and
Biodiversity at a time of Climate Change White Paper once it is released.
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 36
Actions that could be introduced into local policies include the following:
• Identify preferred areas for the establishment of those agricultural and primary
production activities that have known off-site amenity impacts (for example
intensive animal industries, quarries and forestation);
• Identify land intended for residential use and growth over at least ten years
(including rural living areas) and place settlement boundaries around the
defined settlements;
• Apply the Rural Activity Zone more widely throughout rural areas;
• Introduce Particular Provisions relating to the use of rural land for tourism,
visitor, restaurant and outdoor recreation uses. These provisions should require
applicants to demonstrate how the:
o use justifies being in a rural area rather than a settlement site and the use
is consistent with both the relevant local tourism and agricultural policies,
o land holding to be used is of marginal agricultural value and used in a
broad strategic and site-specific context,
o use will integrate with the use of adjoining and proximate land,
o use will not be in conflict with agriculture conducted on adjoining land, and
o use will encourage sustainable community outcomes.
3.13
Northern Region Sustainable Water Strategy
The Northern Region Sustainable Water Strategy (NRSWS) was produced in 2009.
It covers Victoria’s share of the Murray River and all of its tributaries including the
Ovens River system.
The NRSWS forecasts that there will generally be less water available in the next 50
years due to climate change and variability.
The response to these risks includes:
• Recognising and protecting existing entitlements;
• Enhance markets, carryover arrangements and reserve policies;
• Use available water more efficiently; and
• Guide public investment in irrigation modernisation, on-farm programs, river
and wetland health programs and environment water purchase programs.
The NRSWS provides a summary of available surface water in the Ovens system.
Average annual stream flow
Urban use
Rural and domestic and stock
Unregulated rivers
Unlicensed dams
Average flows at basin outlet
gI/year
1,758 gl/year
11
26
20
20
1,695
The NRSWS also estimates that the Murmungee Groundwater management area
has a licensed entitlement of 16.7gl with licensed use being 7.1 gl/year.
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 37
The Ovens system is largely an unregulated system with no large dam and
individuals are licensed to take and use water from:
• Waterways;
• On-stream and off-stream dams;
• Springs and soaks; and
• Groundwater.
The NRSWS observes that currently, trade in water licences in unregulated river
systems and of groundwater is not widespread. However, it is expected that as
water availability decreases, it is likely that licence holders will want additional
flexibility to trade allocations and licences.
It is important to note that this data refers to the entire Ovens system and is not
specifically referring to the system within the RCOW.
Goulburn-Murray Water have foreshadowed their intention to complete the
“unbundling” program i.e. separation of water and property rights before the end of
2012.
3.14
Murray Darling Basin Plan
The draft Murray Darling Basin Plan had not been published at the time of preparing
this Background Paper.
The guide to the Murray Darling Basin Plan, revealed in 2010, would have resulted in
significant reduction to water used for irrigation, in the catchment.
Whatever, the final outcome, it is likely that efficient use of increasingly scarce and
expensive water in assisting agriculture, will continue to be a priority.
3.15
Lower Ovens Groundwater Resource
The Rural City of Wangaratta has supported a Federal and State Government
feasibility study into the potential for Ovens Deep Lead Aquifer as a water supply
source for Wangaratta and district.
The premise of the feasibility study was to ascertain whether the Ovens Deep Land
Aquifer, which sits about 110 metres below the Ovens river at Wangaratta, could be
utilised to both meet Wangaratta’s medium to long term water supply needs, and
also provide a reticulated water supply for agricultural production at the source, I a
most efficient manner.
To this end the State Government, through the Department of Sustainability and
Environment and Regional Development Victoria, allocated $200,000 for the study
aimed at investigating this ground water resource, consider how it can be used
conjunctively with the river system as a possible means of supplying agriculture and
to inform about how it could be managed into the future. The study was
supplemented by an additional allocation of $150,000 from the Federal Government
on the basis that it was unique and innovative for Australia.
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 38
The study contained four components:
1.
2.
3.
4.
Conceptual Modelling
Numerical Modelling
Scenarios and Analysis
Findings and Future Management
Findings
•
•
•
•
The Ovens Deep Lead Aquifer is large and is served by a massive and efficient
catchment.
There is high interaction between the river and the Ovens Deep Lead Aquifer at
its commencement at the top of the Ovens Valley meaning that recharge
response is also high (following a rainfall event and run off).
Water quality is excellent.
There are four segments of the aquifer as it relates to the Ovens:
1. High interaction at the top of the Ovens Valley through to Myrtleford,
meaning that they are virtually the same water source.
2. Considerable interaction in the area between Myrtleford and Tea
Garden Creek, (near Tarrawingee and Milawa) meaning no change to
current use in this area.
3. Complete separation north of Tea Garden Creek to Peechelba,
meaning two distinct bodies of water.
4. Merges into the Murray system beyond Peechelba.
The existence of the Ovens Deep Lead Aquifer at Wangaratta as a separate and
distinct water supply provides for the immediate and future water security needs for
the Wangaratta area.
Its existence also opens up new opportunities for agriculture north of Tea Garden
Creek. The area south of Tea Garden Creek to Myrtleford is effectively “business as
usual”, which traditionally has high water security anyway.
Conclusion
1. The Ovens Deep Lead Aquifer provides excellent supply augmentation north of
Tea Garden Creek provided that it is managed within the overall system’s limits.
2. There is plenty of capacity and almost no restriction on licensed use within the
Ovens system in all but the rarest of circumstances.
3. Underpinning the existence and availability of the Ovens Deep Lead Aquifer is
the fact that there is major under-utilisation of the existing resource allocation
which is capable of being transferred and applied to the Oven Aquifer use subject
to management rules.
3.16
Neighbouring Municipal context
The Rural City of Wangaratta adjoins 6 neighbouring local government areas, these
being:
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 39
•
•
•
•
•
•
Alpine Shire Council;
Wellington Shire Council;
Mansfield Shire Council;
Benalla Rural City Council;
Moira Shire Council; and
Indigo Shire Council.
Alpine Shire
The Alpine Shire Council is located on the eastern flank and shares the longest
boundary with Rural City of Wangaratta. There is close alignment of zones across
the municipal boundary including the Public Conservation and Resource Zone and
Farming Zone. The scheduled minimum lot size in the Farming Zone is 40 hectares
for a dwelling and subdivision. There is significant forest plantation planting within
the Alpine Shire and along the border, south of the Great Alpine Road. These
plantations are located on crown land, however the type of use is deemed to be rural
(timber production) and zoned Farming Zone rather than Public Conservation and
Resource Zone.
A Wildfire Management Overlay (WMO) joins the full length of the municipal
boundary where the Public Conservation and Resource Zone is located as well as
some areas joining the Farming Zone area at the north eastern section of the
municipal boundary.
The Alpine Shire is currently preparing a Rural Land Strategy.
Wellington Shire
To the south, a short boundary is shared with the Wellington Shire Council. This
boundary is within the Alpine National Park and is zoned Public Conservation and
Resource Zone.
There are no overlays within the Wellington Planning Scheme that adjoin the
municipal boundary.
Wellington Council adopted a Rural Land Use Strategy in 2009 and amendment to
its Planning Scheme is currently underway.
Mansfield Shire
To the south west, the municipal boundary abuts the Mansfield Shire Council. The
boundary is generally Public Conservation and Resource Zone with a portion along
the south western flank within the Tolmie area zoned (within the Mansfield Shire)
Rural Living Zone with a schedule provision for subdivision of 2 hectares with an
average lot size of 4 hectares. This is a large area which is in direct contrast to the
Farming Zone within the Wangaratta Planning Scheme that has a minimum lot size
of 40 hectares.
A Wildfire Management Overlay captures all land within Mansfield Shire joining the
municipal boundary.
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 40
An Environmental Significance Overlay joins the boundary at the King River north
east of Tolmie. This overlay recognises the area as being the edge of the declared
catchment area for Lake Nillahcootie.
Benalla Rural City
To the west abuts the Benalla Rural City. The zone controls across the municipal
boundary is generally Farming Zone. The controls are consistent, with each having
a scheduled minimum lot size of 40 hectares.
A small portion of this shared boundary with Benalla bisects the Warby Ranges with
a mix of Rural Conservation Zone and Public Conservation and Resource Zone on
either side of the boundary. The township of Glenrowan also shares a portion of the
boundary, which is reflected in the Rural Living Zone within Wangaratta which abuts
a Public Conservation and Resource Zone within Benalla.
A Significant Landscape Overlay (SLO) adjoins the boundary at the Warby Range
area and has a mirror image type fit with the SLO as mapped in the Wangaratta
Planning Scheme.
A large area is within a Vegetation Protection Overlay to the south and west of
Glenrowan and serves to protect the habitat of the Regent Honeyeater and the
Ironbark area of Lurg.
A Wildfire Management Overlay is located over all land joining the Warby Range
area to the western boundary as well as the northern outer edge of Glenrowan with a
further large area joining the south western area of the shared boundary.
Benalla has not undertaken a Rural Land Study.
Moira Shire
To the North West, the Rural City shares a boundary with the Moira Shire Council.
Whilst the boundary is within the Farming Zone, there is a marked difference with the
scheduled minimum lot size. Moira Shire Council has set 100 hectares as the
minimum lot size whilst the Rural City is at 40 hectares. (Note that this an interim
arrangement with the minimum lot size to be finalised as part of the Regional Rural
Land Use Strategy- Shepparton/Campaspe/Moira). There is a small section along
the Ovens River shared boundary that is zoned Public Conservation and Resource
Zone.
There are no overlays within the Moira Planning Scheme that adjoin the municipal
boundary.
The Shire of Moira has exhibited a Planning Scheme amendment to incorporate the
recommendations of the Regional Rural Land Use Strategy. For the Farming zone
this recommends a minimum lot size for subdivision of 100 ha and for minimum size
for which a permit is not required for a dwelling is set at 250 ha.
Indigo Shire
The north and north east boundary abuts the Indigo Shire Council with the major
portion of the boundary within the Farming Zone. Both Councils have a minimum lot
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 41
size scheduled at 40 hectares. Other than a small portion of Rural Living Zone on
the outskirts of Beechworth near Murmungee, the remaining boundary is Public
Conservation and Resource Zone within the Barambogie State Forest and the Mount
Stanley State Forest.
An area of Rural Living Zone is located at Fighting Gully east of the Wangaratta
boundary and within the Indigo Shire. It is situated on the north side of a natural
escarpment above the Ovens River valley which provides a natural border between
the two municipalities.
A large area of land located within this municipality has an Environmental
Significance Overlay applied for catchment protection. This area abuts the boundary
with the municipality and it would be appropriate to apply this overlay within the
Wangaratta Planning Scheme area to recognise the full extent of the catchment.
Indigo Shire Council has prepared a Rural Land Strategy that has been recently
adopted. It updates policy framework for decision making but generally retains the
40 ha minimum lot size.
3.17
Community Consultations - Rural Land Strategy
During late 2009 and early 2010 a number of information sessions were held to
outline the process of what was called “rural Zones Review” and to invite feedback.
Feedback from sessions held in Boorhaman, Everton, Moyhu and Wangaratta
consisted of key issues raised including:
• Planning needs local input to gain an understanding of the region;
• There is a need to protect the farmers ‘right to farm’;
• Lifestyle living – travelling to work in town puts extra pressure on services and
roads;
• People living on rural land don’t know about farming and what is required.
There are concerns about stray dogs etc;
• Absentee landowners particularly on smaller lots do not control weeds and
vermin, use trail bikes, have stray dogs and often live in sheds;
• Most farmers need off-farm income to survive;
• 10% of farm income is spent in paying Council rates, which reduces profits.
• Input costs are increasing each year but income from production is not
increasing at the same rate - profit is being eroded;
• Genuine farms are deteriorating;
• Can we separate land and subdivision rights?
• Council can’t penalise those that have not subdivided by changing the rules;
• Most farmers are ageing and the young people don’t want to take over the
family enterprise however, there is a need to provide the ability for succession
to occur;
• Need to encourage young people back to the farm and allow them to have a
house;
• There needs to be a balance between residential land and farming land.
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 42
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Farmers see land as their superannuation as there is often no provision made
for retirement savings. Subdivision of the land is needed in order for farmers to
retire;
The ground water level in the water table has been reduced with increased
subdivision of land. E.g. Pressure on the use of ground water has increased in
Milawa;
Several questions were asked about the Murmungee aquifer in particular the
volume of water that is stored and the likely environmental impacts that would
occur if the water was used;
There is a need to plan for the towns to develop with defined boundaries to plan
up to;
There are a number of areas where there are small lots and other areas where
land is lost to agriculture and should be appropriately rezoned. Example
provided was Warby Range Road;
Council should consider consolidating smaller lots to make large lots;
Areas other than Milawa / Oxley & King Valley should be considered for Rural
Activity Zone;
Subdivision of farmland areas places restrictions on genuine farmers, as
increased values puts land out of reach for ordinary farmers;
Blocks of land selling for in excess of $100k is enticing farmers to subdivide
land to boost profits;
Future generations must be considered if we want to subdivide land to sell, just
to make money; and
We are only temporary, future generations need to have land as a resource.
3.18
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Consultation Activities
The introduction to this Review referred to the Draft Rural Land Strategy (DRLS) and
the consultation activities undertaken during April to May 2011.
The consultation activities consisted of:
• A series of one-on-one consultations and involved more than 280 residents and
ratepayers;
• Community meetings at four locations with a combined attendance of almost
1,000 people; and
• Almost 400 written submissions.
A small number of submissions and attendees at meetings supported the proposed
actions particularly the need to prevent further conversion of agricultural land to
residential use. A number of submissions supported the proposed Rural Activity
Zones.
However, common messages of concern were:
• 250 hectare minimum for the ‘as of right’ construction of a dwelling in the
farming zone is too large, one size fits all approach won’t work, will impact
negatively on the value of farming land and may result in loss of equity in the
farm;
• The DRLS will impact property valuations, superannuation plans, succession
planning and intergenerational hand over of farms;
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 43
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Rural Conservation Zone is not required considering the native vegetation
removal framework within the Planning Scheme, will not provide any further
environmental protection but will impact on the continued use of land for
farming;
Increasing the triggers for subdivision and dwellings will de-populate rural areas
and the impact on rural communities requires a social impact assessment to be
undertaken.
Towns have not been catered for or reviewed and some not even mentioned in
the DRLS;
The DRLS does not recognise recent subdivision approvals;
restrictions on proposed dwellings in conjunction with grazing is too severe;
The DRLS undervalues the contribution of part-time farmers with off-farm
income; and
There was inadequate data or rationale to support the proposed changes.
There were also a number of recurring themes or views regarding broader rural
issues including:
Right to Farm - comments ranged from “hasn’t existed for 20 years”, “can be used as
an excuse for poor farming practices”, “EPA should be less diligent” to “all land
buyers should sign acknowledging that they are buying into a farming area.”
Right to Build - a significant number of submissions either asserted or demanded the
right for a dwelling to be built on every lot irrespective of size or location.
One size fits all/ broad-brush approach - more than 20 submissions referred to the
diversity of communities, land uses or topography and suggested that the “one size
fits all”, “broad-brush” or “blanket” approach wasn’t suited.
40ha as of right – a number of submissions favoured continuing with the 40ha
minimum for dwellings and subdivision. Reasons were that it had provided some
certainty or was too large not to farm in some way. However, there were also views
that 40ha was too large for some seeking rural lifestyle where the land became a
source of problems and was lost to agriculture.
Flexibility – a number of submissions proposed a flexible system where applications
were decided on a case-by-case basis. Others expressed reservations about
Council’s ability to determine these matters.
Corporate Farming/ Foreign Ownership – a number of submissions expressed
concern about the opportunity for corporate or foreign ownership of farms.
Rezonings suggested – more than 20 submissions identified particular properties or
small areas where either the current or proposed zoning is considered to be
inappropriate.
Suggestions
More than 50 of the submissions offered suggestions for further improving the DRLS.
A number of these suggested leaving current arrangements in place but other
suggestions related to arrangements for single dwellings for succession purposes,
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 44
the “grandfathering” of existing rights, a phase-in for any new arrangements, the idea
of transferrable development rights to direct dwelling development to particular areas
and alterations to the rating systems to provide more incentive or support to larger
farms.
3.19
Conclusions
The 2030 Community Vision and Community Plans indicate community support for
protection of agricultural land and rural landscapes. At the State level, the Bushfire
Royal Commission, the Land and Biodiversity White paper, the Hume Strategy for
Sustainable Communities and the Future Farming Strategy also take a strong
position on the need to protect high quality agricultural land from the impact of
inappropriate residential development. However, the outcome of the consultation
process around the DRLS indicates that in order to obtain widespread community
support, changes to planning arrangements will need to acknowledge local diversity
and respect current valuations and farm financial planning arrangements.
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 45
Chapter 4
Changing Rural Landscapes
The Future Farming Strategy, referred to elsewhere in this document, provides a
summary of the background issues to the DRLS. It says, in part:
“Historically, rural land-use planning has focused on the notion of a landscape
where agriculture is the presumed use. This is based on planning goals that
include preventing a decline in productive agricultural land, containing urban
sprawl and protecting biodiversity and rural landscapes.
The Victorian Government has recently reformed rural zones and created a new
Farming Zone where non-farming uses are significantly restricted. A key goal of
these reforms is to ensure that farm businesses can maintain, expand and
intensify their current operations without being affected by non-farming uses in
rural areas.
Urban migration to regional Victoria or new land uses, such as intensive animal
industries or plantation forestry, can create conflict between productive and
amenity land use. Land-use planning must provide greater certainty and
productivity for farm businesses by setting a clear policy direction that balances
complex and competing community demands”.
This summary makes three key points. It supports the notion that agriculture is the
predominant activity in the rural landscape, acknowledges the ongoing restructuring
of that industry and proposes that urban migration must not result in conflict with
productive land uses. Current land use planning arrangements aim to support these
notions.
The declining terms of trade of the agricultural sector has been identified as perhaps
the most significant force for change. The Productivity Commission1, suggests that
“... adjustment pressures such as globalisation of markets, declining terms of trade,
changing consumer tastes and attitudes and emerging environmental concerns”, are
all contributors to change. The Commission sees the key trends in response to
those pressures as being:
• Fewer and larger farms;
• Increased concentration of output on larger farms;
• The adoption of more intensive farming techniques; and
• The closer integration of production and of related activities in the agri-food
chain.
Dr Neil Barr,2 a social researcher with the Department of Primary Industries,
suggests two possible outcomes to the terms of trade pressures. One is what he
describes as the “inevitability of fewer farms”. Farms will grow larger and inevitably
there are fewer. The second outcome, where land prices are inflated due to amenity
1
2
Productivity Commission 2005 Trends in Australian Agriculture, Research Paper, Canberra
Barr Dr Neil, Future Agricultural Landscapes, paper published in Australian Planner, Vol 40, No 2, 2003, pp 123-127
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 46
value, results in farmers being unable to expand. In these situations, farmers take
off-farm work and or absorb the declining terms of trade in their business equity.
The Productivity Commission statistics on the decreasing number of farms suggests
that many are taking the former course of action. “While the number of farms,
across Australia, has decreased by about 25% from 178,000 in 1982/83 to 132,000
in 2002/03 the reduction has been variable across industries. The biggest reduction
in farm numbers was in the pig farming, eggs, sheep and dairy industries. Industries
where farm numbers have been increasing include cotton, grapes, nurseries, poultry
and beef cattle. Generally, where farms numbers have declined, it has been the
smaller farms translated into an increase in the proportion of farms in the medium
size category.”
The Future of Small Farms: Synthesis paper,3 published in 2006, examines the
changing role of small farms in the context of an under-developed or developing
world. However, some of the observations are relevant to our current
circumstances.
The paper makes observations about how the role of agriculture changes with the
economic development of a country. These changes include:
• As countries grow richer and diversify, agriculture’s share of income and
employment fall and growth is driven by manufacturing and services;
• As per capita incomes rise, labour becomes more expensive relative to land
and capital and small farms begin to get squeezed out by larger and more
capitalised farms that can capture growing economies of scale. There is an
exodus of agricultural workers; and
• As per capita incomes rise, consumer food preferences change and demand
for higher value and quality products.
It is also suggested that “...As a result of these changes, farms become larger, more
commercial and more specialised in higher value products. Many small farms
disappear, while others adapt either by specialising in high value niches in which
they can compete, or by becoming part-time farmers.”
These broad outcomes can be seen across the Australian economy over the last 50
years, are evident in the Productivity Commission’s research and are still occurring
today.
However, while suggesting that the search for economies of scale will drive the
establishment of larger farms, the Future of Small Farms Paper contends that smallscale agriculture is more efficient.
“The efficiency argument for small-scale agriculture is based upon an extensive and
long standing empirical literature that has investigated the ‘inverse relationship’
between farm size and production per unit of land. This shows a common tendency
for larger farms to yield lower gross and net returns per ha of land per year than
smaller farms”.
3
Hazell, P and ors, The Future of Small Farms: Synthesis paper,2006 Rimispin-Latin American Centre for Rural Development.
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 47
It seems that economies of scale do not apply uniformly across agriculture but vary
with the type of agricultural activity. The paper cites earlier work by Lipton (2005b):
“Economies of scale in agriculture may apply in input supply, processing of harvests
and in transport: but for most farm operations, economies of scale are weak, and
there may well be diseconomies that apply once production exceeds the scope and
capacity of the family farm”
This view has particular relevance to the many small to medium beef enterprises
operating in this region. Economies of scale may be small and may become nonexistent when the enterprise expands beyond what can be managed by the family
unit.
In a report for Regional Development Victoria, McKinna4 cites concern in the
professional farming community that sub-commercial farms (less than 50ha) have
the potential to have a negative impact on wider agricultural sector because:
• They drive up land prices around major centres to the point that they become
uneconomic for commercial production;
• They exacerbate economic inefficiencies in production within the region
• They pose significant biosecurity risk as these farms are generally not as tightly
managed as commercial farms;
• They pose a food safety threat because produce is sold at local farmers
markets or at farm gate stalls without product safety or quality control
• They have little knowledge of Natural Resource Management or environment
and land management; and
• They tend to have a diverse mix or are involved in new, specialised or niche
industries, which can further exacerbate biosecurity, food safety or
environmental management issues.
A significantly different view of the broader value of small farms is offered in “Small
Farms: Valued contributors to healthy rural communities”. 5 It examined the
contribution that small farms make to rural communities.
The report commented that “...these contributions include regional economic
development, cultural and social diversity that can energise and strengthen
communities. Small lifestyle farm ownership also brings new knowledge and skills
into rural communities, are part of Australia’s food and fibre supply chain and may
contribute to overall agricultural productivity, product integrity and market protection.”
However, the change in rural living associated with more diverse social landscape is
also said to bring risk of conflict between landholders with different values and
expectations of country life. New industries and new landholders also bring a risk of
inappropriate environmental, animal welfare and food safety management that could
damage primary industries’ reputations, increase biosecurity risk or erode the natural
resource base.
4
Regional Development Victoria 2010, Performance Issues impacting on the development of the Victorian agrifood sector,
McKinna et al
5
Rural Industries Research and Development Corporation, Small farms – valued contributors to healthy communities, 2007
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 48
The following table, from the Small Farms Report sets out the perceived impacts of
growing numbers of small farms.
Indicator
Social
Economic
Positive impact
• Breakdown in divide
between urban and
country dwellers
• More people in some
rural areas maintaining
communities.
• Greater cultural diversity.
• New people, new skills,
ideas and financial
capital.
• Improved lifestyle for
individuals within the
community (in response
to diversity, new
business ventures).
• Improved infrastructure
to cater for population
increase.
• Provide scenic attributes.
Negative impact
• Loss of cultural heritage
associated with traditional
farming and farm life.
• Diminished cultural integrity
(continuation of local culture
and traditions).
• Conflicts between values,
attitudes, aspirations and
practices of small and large
• Farmers.
• Rapid turnover of properties,
eroding social capital in rural
communities.
• Increased social tension.
• Increased pressure on
services.
•
•
•
•
More diversified and
resilient rural economies.
Increased land values in
certain areas.
Flow-on wealth to
landowners, real estate.
•
•
Environment
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
More people to
undertake conservation
work.
Land planning.
Attraction to nature and
land stewardship ethic.
Increased biodiversity
due to more diverse land
management practices.
Act as buffers against
urban encroachment
Lower intensity of land
use.
Greater reliance on
•
•
•
•
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
Fewer farmers leading to
loss of agricultural.
production and agricultural
income.
Rising land value of
agricultural land limiting
expansion of fully
commercial enterprises.
Inefficiency (It is generally
recognised that economies
of size accrue in farming).
Smaller property sizes and
higher population densities
leading to increased
environmental impacts (e.g.
Farm dams).
Difficulties in coordination of
land management activities.
Loss of amenity, urban
sprawl.
Lack of experience,
knowledge, interest leading
to poor land management of
weeds, less awareness of
pest and disease risk, less
page 49
Indicator
Positive impact
conservation practices.
Negative impact
work on environmental
problems like soil health.
The report concludes that while there is considerable commentary on the small
lifestyle farms to rural communities, but there is little quantitative evidence to support
these claims.
The changes occurring in rural land use have also been documented in a 2010
paper entitled “Meeting the policy challenges of rural and peri-urban land use in
Australia”,6 published by the Department of Primary Industries. Five drivers of
change were identified and the point made that these changes are particularly acute
in Victoria because of the state’s compact area and population density.
The DPI paper could well be referring to this region when is argues “that projected
increases in population growth in Victoria, which is a small and densely populated
state, shifting consumer preferences for land with amenity and environmental value,
coupled with large investment in transport infrastructure that improves connectivity
between urban, peri-urban and rural areas has increased contestability for access to
land”.
The six broad influences on rural land use change are:
1. Environmental factors
Changing rainfall and temperature affect agricultural activities, settlement patterns
and government policy. The hotter dryer period of the past 10 years has resulted in
government activities such as the Northern Regional Sustainable Water Strategy, the
Murray Darling Basin Plan and the Bushfire Royal Commission. Each of these
responses to climate change and variability will result in changed policy that attempts
to influence development activities.
2. Infrastructure development
Changes in road, rail, air and port infrastructure can influence land-use in complex
ways. Government support for water infrastructure and irrigation schemes have also
influenced land-use patterns in rural Victoria. Public investment in irrigation
infrastructure, although more in other areas than in the Ovens and King valleys,
continues to shape land-use with large tracts of land dedicated to irrigated
production.
3. Shifts in consumer preferences
There is growing interest in links between food and personal health, and in
environmental and animal welfare practices associated with food production. In the
recent past the issue of mulesing of sheep, the emergence of farmers markets and
the recent shut-down of cattle export to Indonesia are all examples.
6
Department of Primary Industries, Meeting the policy challenges of rural and peri-urban land use in Australia,
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 50
4. Population
Victoria is projected to have strong population growth in areas of high amenity value,
in rural centres and in peri-urban regions over the next 15 years. At the same time,
youth migration to cities, resulting in low rates of young entry to farming, an ageing
farmer population and growth in “sea change’ farmers will accelerate the ageing of
rural populations.
5. Communities
The McKinna research is relevant here because it shows that the children of ageing
farmers are not generally interested in taking over the farm because of lifestyle
conditions and poor/unstable salaries. Often parents no longer encourage their
children to follow in their footsteps. McKinna cites a 2000 study that found just 29%
of current farmers expected their farm to be run by their children; whereas 57% of
respondents were managing a farm passed down by their parents. Also, where
children do wish to take over the farm they often don’t or can’t obtain the capital to
buy out their parents. Retiring parents cannot afford to hand over the farm because
they need the value tied up in the asset for their retirement. As most profits are
reinvested in the farm, the land value is essentially their superannuation asset.
6. Economic factors
The need for protection of agricultural land is generally seen in the context of the
inflation of agricultural land values, from proximity to urban areas where planning
conditions allow subdivision for hobby farming or real estate developments. High
land values are also said to restrict options for structural adjustment as it increases
the cost of entering the industry or of seeking productivity improvements through
economies of scale. However, where planning conditions allow smaller subdivisions
this can be an important source of income for those seeking to permanently exit the
industry.
Another important economic factor is the growth of supermarkets to a position of
dominance in the food supply chain. McKinna argues that corporate and large scale
intensive farming operations are producing greater volumes of output. This is
particularly important to supermarkets that have a threshold quantity requirement,
seek to deal with fewer suppliers and demand quality and food safety systems. Most
of these requirements are beyond the capacity of the family or small farm.
The competing forces around agricultural adjustment provide a complex situation for
policy determination.
• On the one hand, the establishment of larger but fewer farms is observed to be
the expected response to economic pressures.
• If farms don’t expand in scale, the result is eroded equity and the departure of
young people.
• But when farms get bigger, capital replaces labour, agriculture provides less
jobs and rural communities are undermined.
• In order to get bigger, land prices need to reflect economic value. But inflated
land values are often farmer’s superannuation and provide the financial means
for some to leave the industry.
Neil Barr argues that there is an alternative to this dilemma and that part of the
solution is to accept dormitory landscapes.
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 51
He says “...we should not even pretend that we are protecting agriculture or prime
agricultural land. The main industry in these districts is not agriculture. It is salary
transfers from larger centres. The salary comes with the worker and the worker
comes for the landscape. The survival of these communities depends upon
protecting landscape amenity. Minimum lot size may have a role in this, but in
years to come we may talk just as much of the maximum lot size that is
compatible with the capability of a family unit to manage the land and avoid
problems with weeds, feral pests.”
However, the idea of dormitory landscapes comes with another set of issues that
have been identified in a research project Change and Continuity in Peri-urban
Australia. 7 The project researched changing land uses in the areas around major
cities. Two case studies focused on areas west of Brisbane and the Bendigo
corridor north west of Melbourne. While this research has focused on areas on the
fringe of capital cities, the findings are highly relevant to areas around provincial
cities such as Wangaratta.
The Brisbane study area has experienced strong population growth (3.7% between
1980 and 1991) that has declined to 1.2% for the period 1991 to 2001. Despite this
growth there has been a loss of young people and the growth in the number of
people aged over 60.
At the time of the research, rural residential land use took up 19% of the land
compared to 38% used for primary production. Agricultural establishments have
declined in size and number and intensification has seen crops such as mushrooms,
turf farms, cut flowers and nurseries becoming fastest growing industries.
The research identified the following challenges:
• Loss of biodiversity – particularly as a result of subdivisions and fragmentation
and loss of wildlife corridors.
• Pest Animals and Weed infestation – mainly as a result of a growing number of
domestic animals going wild.
• Loss of scenic amenity – resulting from increased fragmentation of landscape
due to subdivision.
• Water quality decline – likely impact of rural residential developments that rely
on on-site sewerage.
• Changes to hydrological regime – groundwater system have been stressed,
permanent loss of stream flow and lowering of alluvial water able has caused
losses in riparian and alluvial vegetation. Farm dams on rural residential
properties capture significant quantities of surface water.
• Impacts on groundwater – over extraction has increased salinity and lowered
water tables.
• Bushfire prevalence – where settlement has extended into densely vegetated
areas, bushfire risk is increased.
7
Low Choy, D., Sutherland, C., Gleeson, B., Sipe, N., and Dodson, J. (2008) Change and Continuity in Peri-Urban Australia:
Peri-Urban Futures & Sustainable Development. Monograph 4, Griffith University, Brisbane.
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 52
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Landscape management capacity – urban newcomers may have time but
probably not knowledge, skills, educational background or surplus resources to
devote to landscape management.
Social conflicts – anecdotal evidence of conflict between urban life-stylers and
traditional farming community.
Social disadvantage – the level of social disadvantage has improved but not in
all areas.
Increasing economic and social divide – movement of investors and wealthy
urbanites has potential to increase social divided.
Loss of “sense of community” – sense of community can be disturbed by new
residents particularly if process is rapid.
Skewed population – Decline in young adults, increase in those aged 55 or
more and greater numbers of those less than 14.
Emergence of new local and regional economies – transformation of traditional
agriculture to vineyards, intensive animal husbandry such as kennels and
catteries, horse agistment, turf farms and nurseries.
Intensification of agriculture – emergence of industries such as lettuce and
mushrooms, nurseries and poultry.
The Bendigo corridor research found that extensive fragmentation had occurred.
Rural areas had been subdivided into smaller lots, often owned as part of larger
properties, but with each lot able to be developed separately. This will result in
incremental development of dwellings and with implications for servicing costs,
provision of social services, landscape quality, water use, agriculture and
biodiversity.
The research notes that “...the current planning system has reduced the influence of
planning over rural land use and development compared to that exercised in the
planning schemes of many peri-urban municipalities prior to the late 1990’s”
Population in the area increased from 21,035 in 1981 to 29,365 in 2001. Non-urban
areas had higher growth rates than urban areas. Despite this, because of growing
numbers of single and dual person households, housing growth outpaced population
growth.
The land management and socio-economic challenges are:
Loss of biodiversity – Increasing fragmentation of landscape, loss of habitat due to
subdivisions together with excisions and closer settlement patterns will impact
biodiversity.
Demand for water – decline in water quality and demand for potable water resulting
from more intensive development at the same time as supply reductions due to
construction of farm dams for stock and domestic use.
Land degradation – dry land salinity and stream conditions are worsening.
Landscape Management Capacity – doubt about available time to devote to property
due to employment status and may not have knowledge, skills or education.
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 53
Social conflict- anecdotal suggestion that conflicts may occur between new and
existing residents.
The two principal findings of the research are: “Firstly, the past spatial fragmentation
of these landscapes will continue in the near future and be dominated by activities
associated with ongoing peri-urbanisation processes. This study has shown that
existing statutory planning attempts to prevent this continued fragmentation will not
be sufficient to address future peri-urbanisation resulting from the sale and split up of
multi-titled farms comprised of a number of small lots.
Secondly, it has been noted.… that both case study regions have experienced the
increasing investment in intensive high capital forms of agricultural production along
with the increasing dominance of non-urban industries including the equine industry
and related activities of a growing “horse community”.
These emergent trends of spatial fragmentation and land use intensification within
the peri-urbanisation process present a quandary for current planning and landscape
management efforts which must strive to maintain flexibility to support future regional
needs whilst responding to community aspirations within a context of ensuring a
sustainable landscape.”
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 54
Chapter 5
Local Land and Property Transaction Data
5.1
Agricultural Statistics Overview and Background Information
This section provides information about agricultural activity in the Rural City of
Wangaratta. It was prepared by data analysts, Neil Clark and Associates.
Scope of Agricultural Census
The Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) conducts a complete Agricultural Census
of all farms every five years. A minimum size cut-off of $5,000, based on either
Estimated Value of Agricultural Operations (EVAO) or derived from BAS turnover
determines whether a farm business is considered in-scope for the Census.
Change in scope and coverage of Agricultural Census 2006
There have been changes to the collection methodology which effects comparability
with prior years.
Shift to a new register of agricultural businesses
In 2006 the ABS changed direction and adopted the Australian Tax Office Australian
Business Register as the basis of the Census collection.
Caution has been exercised when comparing farm numbers beyond (and including)
2006 with prior years and data omitted where necessary.
Move to a new industrial classification
In 2006, ABS introduced a new industrial classification - the Australian and New
Zealand Standard Industrial Classification (ANZSIC) 2006 edition.
Types of Statistical Information
Commodity
Each year, ABS collects agricultural commodity and industry data by sending out
questionnaires to farm businesses. Agricultural commodity statistics include an
estimate of the gross value of production, along with corresponding statistics that
vary depending on the sector:
• Cropping – area sown, production;
• Livestock - population, production: milk litres, wool kilograms, slaughter
numbers; and
• Horticulture - tree crop numbers, hectares sown, production.
Industry
Agricultural industry statistics use the Australian & New Zealand Standard Industry
Classification (ANZSIC) to categorise each farm business into a particular industry
category based on the activity(s) that generate the majority of farm income. These
statistics are useful to show the structure of the agricultural industry at a local level in
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 55
terms of farm holding size and business size. There are two primary industry-based
datasets:
• Area of farm holding (AOH) - hectares, farm numbers, average farm size; and
• Estimated value of agricultural operations (EVAO) - value, farm numbers, and
average business size.
Both datasets are segmented by industry type and size characteristics (hectares for
AOH data and value for EVAO data).
Excluded data for industry statistics
There are several factors which affect the number of farm businesses and total area
of holding in specific Census years.
Area of farm holding
The first factor that affects total area of holding statistics in 1997 in the municipality is
two large beef operations which are present in “above 10,000 ha” category in 1997,
but not in 2006. It is highly likely that these two businesses were leasing a large
expanse of land in the high country prior to 2006. This has a significant impact on the
total area of holding (hectares), and to a lesser extent, the number of businesses
when used as part of a trend dataset. These businesses may still operate in 2006,
but would most probably operate smaller farms. With lease arrangements of high
country ceasing pre-2006, they would operate smaller areas. Industry trend analysis
has omitted these two businesses where appropriate to create a dataset that is
representative of the majority of agricultural businesses over time.
Total area of farm holding in 1997 actually exceeded the physical area of the
Wangaratta (RC) due to some farmers owning agricultural land in neighbouring
shires, including the two large beef operations. This is one of the limitations of ABS
area of holding statistics. Each farm business that fills out the Agricultural Census
questionnaire is allocated to the SLA where the majority of land area is situated. A
farm with close to fifty per cent of land area in multiple shires, like Wangaratta (RC)
and Alpine (S), may result in the land area being counted in one shire in Census
1997, and depending on the location of subsequent land purchases, in Alpine (S) or
other neighbouring shires in Census 2006. This can result in farm businesses
dropping in and out of a shire, with large size farms having a greater effect on area
of holding hectare estimates.
Farm Businesses
The change in scope and coverage of the Agricultural Census in 2006, caused by
the shift from the ABS maintained register to the ATO business register, resulted in a
higher number of businesses from the All Other Industries sector and some
agricultural industries. These businesses were captured in Census 2006 but not in
previous Census collections due to the business register used. When analysing
industry trends data for All Other Industries has been omitted, with the focus on
agricultural industries only. These data have been excluded so as to study changes
in farm size and business size within industries using a more reliable and consistent
dataset relevant to a majority of businesses.
Farms classified into “All Other Industries” segment represented 10% of total farms,
7% of total area of holding and 8% of EVAO in Wangaratta (RC) in 2006.
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 56
Gross Value of Agricultural Production (GVAP)
In assessing the value of agriculture to a municipality or community, typically
reference is made to ‘value at farm gate’ and ‘value beyond farm gate’. The Gross
Value of Agricultural Production (GVAP) is the best estimate of the farm gate value
and is defined as the value placed on recorded production at the wholesale prices
realised in the market place. Gross value includes a freight component – in the case
of broadacre cropping, this would factor in the costs associated with transporting
grain to a storage facility (silo) or delivered to port (for export).
Commodities of State significance
Commodities produced in Wangaratta (RC) that represent the highest percentage of
State GVAP for individual commodities are shown in Table 5.1
Table 5.1: Commodities produced in Wangaratta (RC) with a high percentage
of State GVAP
Source: ABS Census 2006
Commodity
Tobacco
Hops
Capsicum, Chillies and Peppers
Cherries
Kiwi fruit
Blueberries
Peaches
Pumpkins, Triamble, Trombone, etc
Beef cattle and calves slaughtered
Goats slaughtered
Lemons and Limes
Dominant SLA
Wangaratta (RC) South
Wangaratta (RC) South
Wangaratta (RC) South
Wangaratta (RC) North
Wangaratta (RC) South
Wangaratta (RC) South
Wangaratta (RC) South
Wangaratta (RC) South
Wangaratta (RC) South
Wangaratta (RC) South
Wangaratta (RC) North
Gross value
(RCoW)
6,612,722
317,905
1,439,863
3,826,449
1,187,684
278,597
3,673,117
90,442
41,670,224
453,458
208,283
% of State
GVAP
26.1%
23.7%
17.4%
14.9%
13.2%
5.6%
4.9%
4.5%
3.3%
3.2%
3.0%
Five commodities produced in the Rural City of Wangaratta represented above 10%
of corresponding GVAP in Victoria.
Tobacco production in Australia ceased on October 26th, 2006 when the majority of
the region's 143 licensed tobacco growers voted to accept a Federal Government
and industry buy out.
The majority are fruit and vegetable commodities, with the exception of beef cattle
slaughtered, hops and goats. Of these, there are four with GVAP (2006) in excess of
$1 million: Capsicum & Chillies ($1.44 mil), Cherries ($3.83 mil), Kiwi fruit ($1.19 mil)
and Peaches ($3.68 mil). The remainder recorded less than $0.5 million in GVAP in
2006 – Blueberries, Pumpkins, Lemons and Limes.
Trends in Gross Value of Agricultural Production
It is common for the value of production of most agricultural commodities in a
municipality to gradually increase over time. This can be driven by changes in farm
size, greater numbers of producers, fluctuation in commodity prices, domestic and
international market activity, and increased productivity in farming operations.
Studying the relative contribution of commodity groups to gross value of production
highlights changes in the makeup of the local agricultural economy.
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 57
Whole of Wangaratta (RC)
Main commodity groups that increased the percentage of total GVAP in 2006 relative
to 1997 included beef, fruit excluding, vegetables, and grapes as shown in Table 5.2.
Of these, beef experienced the most significant growth in terms of relative
contribution, representing close to 40% of GVAP in 2006. Broadacre cropping
(including tobacco), dairy (milk), sheep and amenity horticulture (nurseries, cut
flowers and cultivated turf) were commodity groups that had a lesser percentage of
total GVAP in 2006 than in 1997. Of these, the most significant decrease, in relative
percentage terms, were commodities associated with sheep (meat and wool) and
broadacre cropping (crops for grain, tobacco).
Table 5.2: Contribution to Total GVAP in Wangaratta (RC): 1997 and 2006
Source: ABS Census collections
1997
Commodity Group
Beef
Cropping
Dairy
Fruit excl. Grapes
Sheep
Grapes
Vegetables
Amenity horticulture
Goats
Poultry (Meat)
Nuts
Totals
2006
GVAP
(nominal
% of GVAP
value)
18,026,621
32.1%
13,902,747
24.7%
11,155,798
19.9%
2,998,569
5.3%
5,506,861
9.8%
3,079,801
5.5%
506,052
0.9%
815,990
1.5%
39,807
0.1%
143,477
0.3%
0.0%
56,175,723
100.0%
GVAP
(nominal
% of GVAP
value)
41,670,224
39.2%
17,770,135
16.7%
16,744,219
15.7%
9,412,583
8.8%
9,128,955
8.6%
7,488,703
7.0%
1,621,075
1.5%
1,410,577
1.3%
453,458
0.4%
383,637
0.4%
273,900
0.3%
106,357,466
100.0%
Table 5.3: Number of farms undertaking specific farming activities
2001
RCoW
No. of
Producers
Citrus Fruit
(Oranges,
grapefruit,
lemons, limes &
mandarins)
Stone Fruit
(Apricots,
cherries,
nectarines,
peaches, &
prunes)
North East
Region
No. of
Producers
2006
% of
Producers
in NE
Region
located in
RCoW
RCoW
No. of
Producers
North East
Region
No. of
Producers
% of
Producers
in NE
Region
located in
RCoW
9
102
9
11
98
12
30
722
5
36
706
5
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 58
2001
RCoW
No. of
Producers
Other Fruit &
Vegetables
Other
Horticulture
(Cut flowers &
turf)
North East
Region
No. of
Producers
2006
% of
Producers
in NE
Region
located in
RCoW
RCoW
No. of
Producers
% of
Producers
in NE
Region
located in
RCoW
North East
Region
No. of
Producers
29
739
4
38
510
8
4
51
8
3
46
8
94
318
30
94
327
29
Beef
647
4,808
13
718
5,458
13
Dairy
78
2,505
3
58
1,903
3
Sheep
198
2,303
9
192
2,309
8
Pigs
5
112
4
1
116
1
Total
1,094
11,660
85
1,151
11,473
87
Grapes
Livestock
Source: ABS Agricultural Commodities: Small Area Data, Australia, 2000-01 and
2006
Number of farms classified by industry
Total Number of Farm Businesses
In 2006, there were 935 farm businesses in Wangaratta (RC), and of these, 841
businesses were classified into an agricultural industry (see Chart 5.1). The balance
of businesses (n=94) were classified into non-agricultural industries (also called “All
Other Industries”); this industry sector consists of farm businesses whose owner’s
primary income source is from non-agricultural activities.
Chart 5.1: Farm Businesses (2006) in Wangaratta (RC)
Source: ABS Census 2006
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 59
Other Livestock;
35
All Other
Industries; 94
Horticulture; 107
Dairy Farming; 49
Broadacre
Farming; 650
Total Farm Businesses = 935
Trends in Farm Business Counts
For the purposes of studying changes in farm numbers over time, the “All Other
Industries” sector should be omitted. The change in the scope and coverage of the
2006 Agricultural Census arising from the shift to a new business register (see
Agriculture Statistics Overview) resulted in a sharp increase in farm business
numbers (see Table 5.3), which were not captured in previous Census years (1997
or 2001) using the ABS-maintained business register. Counts of farm businesses
throughout the rest of this report will concentrate on agricultural industries only.
Table 5.4: Trends in Business Counts by Industry Group
Source: ABS Census collections
Industry Group
Agricultural Industries
Broadacre Farming
Dairy Farming
Horticulture
Other Livestock
Sub-total
Units
1997
2001
2006
Farms
Farms
Farms
Farms
643
76
73
29
821
619
70
124
18
831
650
49
107
35
841
Other Industries
All Other Industries
Farms
Total Businesses
Farms
18
839
11
842
94
935
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 60
Farms by Industry Group
Business counts have increased by ten between each Agricultural Census to a total
of 841 in 2006. The change in farm business counts from 1997 to 2006 was positive
for enterprises in broadacre farming (7), horticulture (34) and other livestock (6), but
negative in the dairy farming sector (-27).
Broadacre farming enterprises have historically been the greatest in number over the
ten year period. Dairy farming and horticulture enterprises were similar in number in
1997, but have gone separate ways since, falling sharply in the dairy sector and
rising in horticultural sector.
Farms by Industry
The most significant growth in farm numbers occurred in the grape, beef farming and
horse industries. At the other end of the spectrum, the industries to experience the
greatest decrease in enterprise numbers included dairy farming, grain-sheep-beef
(or mixed farming) and crop-plant n.e.c. (see Table 5.4). Change in farm numbers for
the remainder of agricultural industries was less than 10 businesses (+/-) between
1997 and 2006.
Table 5.4: Change in Farm Numbers by Industry -Source: ABS Census
collections
Industry
Grape
Beef Cattle
Horse
Sheep
Stone Fruit
Deer
Sheep-Beef Cattle
Grain
Poultry (Meat)
Cut Flower and Flower Seed
Kiwi Fruit
Poultry (Eggs)
Fruit n.e.c.
Plant Nurseries
Apple and Pear
Livestock n.e.c.
Vegetable
Crop and Plant n.e.c.
Grain-Sheep and Grain-Beef Cattle
Dairy Cattle
Totals
Farms 1997 Farms 2006
32
444
11
33
8
1
54
7
1
2
2
1
12
5
4
15
8
59
46
76
821
77
483
18
38
12
4
57
10
2
2
2
10
2
1
10
38
24
49
841
Change
45
39
7
5
4
3
3
3
1
0
0
-1
-2
-3
-3
-5
-8
-21
-22
-27
20
Note: excludes data for “All Other Industries” ANZSIC category.
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 61
The seven agricultural industries with the greatest number of farms in 2006 are
shown in Chart 5.2, which shows the change in farm numbers over a ten year period.
Chart 5.2: Change in Farm Numbers by Industry: 1997 to 2006
Source: ABS Census collections
600
500
Number
400
300
200
100
2006
Remainder
Grain-Sheep
and GrainBeef Cattle
Crop and
Plant n.e.c.
Sheep
Dairy Cattle
Grape
Sheep-Beef
Cattle
1997
Beef Cattle
0
Industry
Note: excludes data for “All Other Industries” ANZSIC category.
Size of Farming Enterprises
Data for “All Other Industries” ANZSIC category has been excluded from trend data
in this section due to the change in scope and coverage of the Agricultural Census in
2006 (please see notes in “Agricultural Overview”).
Farm Businesses
Most agricultural businesses in 2006 were between 80 and 200 hectares in size, and
accounted for 241 (or 29% of agricultural businesses). These businesses were
mainly engaged in beef cattle grazing, dairying or grape growing. Farms operating
an area between 200 and 500 hectares were the second main size group and
accounted for 210 businesses (or 25%).
Area of holding 2006:
Farms holdings between 200 and 500 hectares in size operated the greatest area of
agricultural land in 2006, and utilised 66,465 hectares (or 43% of agricultural area).
The second major size group was businesses operating 500 to 1,000 hectares,
managing 25,883 hectares (or 23%), followed by businesses operating 80 to 200
hectare operations (31,124 ha or 20%). Combined, these three size categories
represent over 85% of agricultural area and are owned by 53% of farms businesses.
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 62
70,000
300
60,000
250
50,000
Farm Numbers
Area of Holding (ha)
Chart 5.3: Area of Holding and Farms by Hectare range (2006)
Source: ABS Census 2006
200
40,000
150
30,000
100
20,000
50
10,000
0
0
0 to 8
Ha
Farms
8 to 40
40 to 80
80 to 200
200 to 500 500 to 1,000
1,000 to
10,000
Hectare Range
Note: excludes data for “All Other Industries” ANZSIC category, as well as beef
operations with more than 10,000 hectares.
The majority of businesses in the three main size groups are engaged in broadacre
farming, particularly beef grazing, as well as grape growing and dairying.
Trends in area of farm holding
Summary
Area of holding decreased from 195,892 hectares in 1997 to 155,765 hectares in
2006. Over the same period, the number of farm businesses increased by 20 to a
total of 841 in 2006.
In 1997, there were two large beef operations in the “above 10,000 ha” category, not
present in 2006, operating an area of 28,651 hectares. These businesses may still
have existed in 2006. However, with lease arrangements in the high country ceasing
pre-2006, these businesses would have operated smaller sized farms at the time the
2006 Agricultural Census was conducted.
Excluding these two large operations provides a trend dataset that shows changes in
farm holding area that is representative of the majority of agricultural businesses.
The change in area of holding is substantially less between 1997 and 2006 when the
two large beef enterprises in 1997 are omitted, as shown in Table 5.6.
Business Numbers by Size Category
The greatest change in business numbers over the ten year period occurred in the
40 to 80 hectare size category, where the count increased by 25 businesses. The
second greatest change in business counts occurred in two size categories: an
increase of 22 businesses in the 8 to 40 hectare category, and a decrease of 22
businesses in the 200 to 500 hectare range.
The increase in farm businesses between 8 and 80 hectares in size may be due, in
part, to the number of subdivisions and building permits approved on small lots in the
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 63
Farming Zone (former Rural Zone) during this period. The decrease in the number of
businesses with 200 to 500 hectares of agricultural area may be a result of
amalgamation, indicating these businesses are increasing in scale, but are fewer in
number.
This trend is evident in the broadacre farming sector as displayed in Chart 5.4. The
increase in the number of broadacre farms less than 80 hectares in size was
confined to Wangaratta (RC) North. The decrease in farms between 80 and 500
hectares, coupled with a slight increase in farms between 500 and 1,000 hectares,
most probably indicates broadacre farms are expanding their area of operations by
purchasing and leasing agricultural land.
Chart 5.5: Change in number of broadacre farms - 1997 and 2006
Source: ABS Census collections
30
25
Change (number of farms)
20
15
10
5
0
-5
-10
-15
-20
ta l
To
,0 0
0
10
ov
e
Ab
o1
0 ,0
00
t
1 ,0
50
0t
o1
, 00
00
0
o5
00
20
0t
00
to
2
80
40
to
8
0
0
8t
o4
0t
o8
-25
Hectare Range
Note: excludes data for “All Other Industries” ANZSIC category, as well as beef
operations with more than 10,000 hectares.
Area of Holding by Industry
The change in total agricultural area between 1997 and 2006 along industry lines is
shown in Table 5.6, with industries ranked according to the difference in farm holding
area between the two Census years. The rank of industries in this table is similar to
Table 5.4, which highlights changes in numbers of businesses by industry.
Analysing the change in area of holding at industry level is better suited to those with
higher counts of businesses (> 25 businesses). In Wangaratta (RC), these include
the broadacre related, dairying and grape industries. Area of holding statistics for
industries with small business counts are more sensitive to change, and less reliable,
due to the effects of business entries and exits, or businesses reclassified into
another ANZSIC category between Census collections. Such industries in
Wangaratta (RC) are from the horticultural sector (excluding the grape industry) and
other livestock sector.
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 64
The largest growth in farm holding area took place in the beef grazing, sheep
farming and grape growing industries. Total operating area contracted the most in
the grain/sheep-beef (mixed farming), sheep-beef mixed livestock), crop and plant
growing n.e.c., and dairying industries.
Table 5.6: Change in area of holding (ha) by industry: 1997 to 2006
Source: ABS Census collections
Industry
Beef Cattle Farming
Grape Growing
Sheep Farming
Poultry Farming (Meat)
Stone Fruit Growing
Grain Growing
Horse Farming
Deer Farming
Kiwi Fruit Growing
Plant Nurseries
Poultry Farming (Eggs)
Cut Flower and Flower Seed Growing
Livestock Farming n.e.c.
Fruit Growing n.e.c.
Apple and Pear Growing
Vegetable Growing
Dairy Cattle Farming
Crop and Plant Growing n.e.c.
Sheep-Beef Cattle Farming
Grain-Sheep and Grain-Beef Cattle Farming
Totals
Area of
Area of
Holding 1997 Holding 2006
76,952
85,675
2,887
7,714
8,602
9,633
310
995
426
1,054
1,655
2,182
1,237
1,694
350
455
62
40
92
59
84
306
27
539
122
1,184
760
487
30
610
15,684
13,474
8,007
4,258
26,676
17,850
21,091
9,742
167,241
155,765
Difference
8,723
4,827
1,031
685
628
527
457
105
-22
-33
-84
-279
-417
-424
-457
-610
-2,210
-3,749
-8,826
-11,349
-11,476
Note: excludes data for “All Other Industries” ANZSIC category, as well as beef
operations with more than 10,000 hectares.
Area of Holding by Industry Sectors
Total area of holding has been fallen in the broadacre sector (see Table 5.7), due to
declines in the grain/sheep-beef and sheep-beef industries exceeding the increase in
the beef industry between 1997 and 2006. Dairy farming area has declined by over
2,000 hectares between 1997 and 2006, reflecting the broader trend across in this
sector in northern Victoria.
Table 5.7: Change in area of holding by industry group: 1997 & 2006
Source: ABS Census collections
Unit
Sector
Broadacre Farming
Dairy Farming
Area (ha) Horticulture
Other Livestock
Total
1997
2006
142,983
15,684
6,054
2,520
167,241
129,340
13,474
9,684
3,266
155,765
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
Difference
-13,643
-2,210
3,630
746
-11,476
page 65
Note: excludes data for “All Other Industries” ANZSIC category, as well as beef
operations with more than 10,000 hectares.
The horticultural sector has increased over the same period by 3,630 hectares,
driven by the growth in agricultural area of the grape industry (Table 5.7). Specialist
grape growers will also have established new businesses in Wangaratta (RC) as part
of broader industry expansion occurred across the State. However, it is probable that
some businesses classified in the vegetable and fruit related industries in 1997 have
been reclassified into the grape industry in 2006, and contributed to its growth in
businesses and area.
This is apparent from the decline in business counts (Table 5.4) and area of holding
(Table 5.5) in the vegetable industry. In 2006, there were no businesses classified in
this industry, yet vegetable commodities contribute a higher percentage of GVAP
than in 1997 (Table 5.2). Further, vegetable production and area sown have
increased since 1997.
Business Size (2006)
Summary
Estimated value of agricultural operations (EVAO) averaged across all agricultural
businesses was approximately $110,000 in 2006. This is a measure of business size
in dollar terms, and is not a measure of farm income or business profit. In order for
ABS to calculate the EVAO of a business, they take into account its area of holding,
livestock numbers / crop area / tree numbers, and changes in commodity unit prices
(three-year rolling average).
As a general rule, EVAO is an indicator of the productive capacity of a business.
Chart 5.5 shows the majority of businesses had an EVAO of less than $100,000 in
2006, with business numbers progressively decreasing as the EVAO range
increases. Businesses with EVAO between $200,000 and $500,000 (medium size
businesses) had the largest percentage of total EVAO, followed by businesses with
EVAO below $100,000. There are a handful of large businesses with EVAO above
$500,000 with a significant share of total EVAO.
An important finding is the percentage of total EVAO represented by the small sized
businesses (EVAO below $200,000) is relatively high compared to the entire State.
In 2006, approximately 69% of agricultural businesses in this size category had 21%
of EVAO in Victoria, compared with 86% of businesses with 46% of EVAO in
Wangaratta (RC). This highlights the important contribution that small sized
businesses make to the local agricultural economy in Wangaratta (RC).
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 66
30%
700
25%
600
500
20%
400
15%
300
10%
200
5%
100
0%
0
a. Less than
$100k
% EVAO
b. $100k - $200k c. $200k - $500k d. $500k - $1m
Farm Businesses
% of Total EVAO
Chart 5.5: Business counts and EVAO (%) by EVAO size (2006)
Source: ABS Census 2006
e. Above $1m
EVAO range
Farms
Businesses Numbers by Size Category
In 2006, there were 577 agricultural businesses that had EVAO below $100,000 (or
69% of agricultural businesses), and another 150 businesses (18%) that had EVAO
between $100,000 and $200,000. Approximately 87% of businesses in Wangaratta
(RC) were represented in these two EVAO size categories.
The majority of businesses with EVAO below $200,000 were involved in beef
farming (457), grape growing (67), sheep-beef (51) and specialist sheep farming
(36), while the majority of businesses with EVAO in excess of $500,000 were
involved in beef grazing and feedlot operations (6), dairying (6), stone fruit growing
(2), and grape growing (2). Other industries represented included kiwi fruit growing,
horse farming, poultry (meat) farming, and other crop growing industries.
The beef industry, with the greatest number of farms of any industry in Wangaratta
(RC), has an extremely high concentration of small businesses. About 81% of beef
farms were categorised as having EVAO less than $100k (n=391), and a further 14%
have EVAO between $100k and $200k; around 95% of total beef farming operations.
Table 5.8 shows the percentage of small beef farms in Wangaratta (RC) is on par
with that of the entire State, at above 94%.
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 67
5.7: Percentage of small beef farms in Victorian municipalities with greater
than 200 beef enterprises.
Source: ABS Census 2006
Rank
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
LGA Name
Greater Shepparton
Baw Baw
Macedon Ranges
Cardinia
Latrobe
Campaspe
Indigo
Bass Coast
Wellington
Wangaratta
Colac-Otway
Benalla
East Gippsland
Murrindindi
South Gippsland
Corangamite
Towong
Glenelg
Moyne
Whole of State
State
Vic
Vic
Vic
Vic
Vic
Vic
Vic
Vic
Vic
Vic
Vic
Vic
Vic
Vic
Vic
Vic
Vic
Vic
Vic
Vic
Small Beef
Farms 2006
(EVAO < $200k
204
485
215
338
209
233
243
242
513
457
251
196
481
319
641
219
280
338
308
8,655
Total Beef
Farms 2006
% Small Beef
Farms 2006
207
493
219
345
217
242
254
254
540
483
266
209
515
345
702
245
315
393
364
9,200
98.5
98.3
98.1
97.9
96.6
96.5
95.8
95.1
95.0
94.5
94.2
93.9
93.4
92.3
91.4
89.4
89.0
86.1
84.5
94.1
Employment
Employment can be used as a measure of the value of agriculture by knowing the
number of people dependant on agriculture for a salary or wage.
Data from the 2006 census shows that there are 1,117 people employed in rural
enterprises (including forestry). Agriculture is the fourth most important employer in
the municipality after health and community services (2,001 jobs); retail trade (1,965
jobs) and manufacturing (1,882 jobs).
There are a further 288 jobs that relate specifically to value adding manufacture in
the areas of timber / timber products and meat and dairy products.
Other large employment generating industries in the municipality are in the areas of
textiles (554 jobs) and construction (635 jobs).
The percentage of people employed in agriculture that lived outside Wangaratta in
1991 was 33% (ABS). This figure decreased to 19% in the 2006 census.
In 2006 there were 14% of employed people living in Wangaratta that worked in the
agriculture and forestry sector.
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 68
The total number of employed people in the municipality that worked in agriculture in
2006 was 9.1%. The percentage of people in regional Victoria employed in this
sector was 9.2%.
According to the statistical profile for the municipality produced by the Australian
Bureau of Statistics (July 2008), the total number of businesses in the agriculture,
forestry and fishing industry has been increasing at the rate of 11 per year for the
past 4 years.
This is a result of more “farms” being created by subdivision of the agricultural land
and a strong indication that fewer people that live on the rural holdings do not rely on
agriculture as the principal source of income.
5.2
Subdivision Approvals
In the period from January 1999 to December 2010 there were 229 applications for
subdivisions or excisions, in the rural areas.
Of these only 12 were refused. Three refusals were taken to VCAT with two
decisions supporting Council and one yet to be determined.
The 217 applications granted related to 392 parcels and resulted in 498 titles being
issued which is an indication of further fragmentation of the underlying land base.
Of the 498 titles issued 95 were for lots of between 40 and 45 hectares and 119
were for lots less than 5 hectares. There were some concentrations of the 40 to 45
hectare lots with 14 being around Moyhu, 8 at Springhurst and 6 at Wangandary.
Given the very different land uses found in these localities it raises the question of
whether agricultural outcomes or some other factor was the motivation for these
subdivisions.
Of the 120 small lots created, most were for excisions of existing dwellings. There
were 94 excisions (including re-subdivisions) of dwellings and these were most
common around Whorouly where there were 15 in the period.
5.3
Excisions
The Farming zone provides for the creation of a small lot for an existing dwelling.
The owner is required to enter into an agreement that the lot will not be further
subdivided.
The following tables Excisions resulting from the creation of new lots and excludes
excisions (approximately 25 in number) created by the re-subdivision of existing lots.
The following tables show a significant level of excision activity.
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 69
EXCISIONS PER YEAR
14
12
10
8
EXCISIONS PER YEAR
6
4
2
0
1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010
7
6
6
5
4
4
3
3
3
4
3
3
2
2
1 1
1
4
1 1
2
1 1 1
2
2 2
1 1
2
1 1 1
1 1
Wangaratta
Wangandary
Waldara
Springhurst
Tarrawingee
South Wangaratta
Myrrhee
North Wangaratta
Oxley
Murmungee
Moyhu
Milawa
Meadow Creek
Markwood
Greta West
Hansonville
Killawarra
Greta
Glenrowan
Everton
Everton Upper
Docker Plains
Eldorado
Docker
Carboor
Byawatha
Boralma
Boorhaman
0
Excisions by Locality
5.4
Valuations
The following commentary was provided by Valpac, Council’s contract valuers, in
regard to the valuation of rural properties in Wangaratta.
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 70
In general terms, the market value of a rural property can be broadly classified into
the following elements:
1. Economic/productive capacity
2. Physical characteristics
3. Legal entitlements
The economic considerations of any rural enterprise are paramount as a component
of market value for a specific property. Gross margin analysis reflects the viability of
an enterprise in terms of commodity prices together with costs of production and
participants in the rural property market rely upon tools such as this, however crude
the analysis may be, to determine the economic capacity of a property.
Physical elements are many and varied with one of the key components being
location. The location of a rural property is one of the primary drivers of value and is
particularly the case in situations similar to Wangaratta where “liveability” component
has such an influents on the market value.
Legal entitlements (including subdivision and dwelling permit rights) are closely
aligned with the concept of highest and best use, which is the most profitable likely
use to which a property can be used for. The market assesses the value of property
having regard to existing and foreseeable rights attached to the property.
In essence, any change to the legal entitlements of a rural property will have a
significant impact on tis value, the extent of such impact being dependent upon the
amount of “non-productive” value which is currently “embedded” within the existing
market value”.
The extent to which each of these components contributes to the value of a property
will vary from property to property. However, if needs to be noted that it is only the
portion of value determined by legal entitlements, such as the right to subdivide or
construct a dwelling, that can be influenced by land use planning.
5.5
Demographics
Two sets of Australia Bureau of Statistics (ABS) data have been examined.
One set, the Estimated Residential Population shows that the Rural City
Wangaratta’s population growth averaged 1.4% per year, for the period from 2005 to
2010.
2010
28,938
2009
28,681
2008
28,186
2007
27,679
2006
27,333
2005
27,017
This data set is considered to be the most accurate estimate of population as it takes
account of those overseas and allows for those who don’t participate.
The other set of data, enumerated population, uses the actual census count and
takes account of visitors. The actual census data is more useful for analysis.
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 71
The data below was obtained from Australian Bureau of Statistics Census date using
the Profile Id analysis tool.
The following table shows that:
• While the population of the Rural City of Wangaratta has grown from 25,200 to
26,000, the rural areas, including rural villages and rural living areas, has also
grown from 8,829 to 9,156. In 2006 the proportion of the population living in the
rural areas was 35%, exactly the same proportion as in 1991.
• However, within that overall population growth, there has been a faster ageing
of population in rural areas. Young people, those less than 17 years, declined
from 32% to 25% of the rural population and from 11% to 9% of the total
population. Over the same period, people aged 65 or more increased from
10% to 14% of the rural population and from 10% to 12% of the total
population.
Year
Total
2006
26,008
2001
25,599
1996
24,887
1991
25,218
Urban
Rural
16,852
9,156
16,619
8,980
15,990
8,897
16,389
8,829
Rural as % of total
35%
35%
36%
35%
%change
Urban
Rural
2.8%
3.7%
1.4%
1.2%
-2.4%
0.8%
0 to 4
5 to 17
18 to 64
65 to 84
85+
Rural
Rural
Rural
Rural
Rural
521
1,806
5,585
1,167
77
9,156
468
1,977
5,385
1,018
132
8,980
594
2,012
5,213
957
121
8,897
787
2,063
5,132
781
66
8,829
0 to 4
5 to 17
18 to 64
65 to 84
85+
Urban
Urban
Urban
Urban
Urban
1,090
3,021
9,625
2,648
468
16,852
1,106
3,155
9,436
2,514
408
16,619
1,169
3,124
9,112
2,294
291
15,990
1,269
3,347
9,295
2,237
241
16,389
0 to 4
5 to 17
18 to 64
65 to 84
85+
Total
Total
Total
Total
Total
1,611
4,827
15,210
3,815
545
1,574
5,132
14,821
3,532
540
1,763
5,136
14,325
3,251
412
2,056
5,410
14,427
3,018
307
26,008
25,599
24,887
25,218
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 72
Population and households
Department of Planning and Community Developments’ Spatial Analysis and Research unit has
advised that they are currently working towards publishing a new set of projections (Victoria in Future
2011) in September this year and that this work will include LGA projections of populations, age
structures, households and household types out to 2031. *This data is not yet to hand.
5.6
Complaints and Conflict
Attempts were made to collect data regarding complaints and conflict from several
agencies.
The Department of Primary Industries, although operating a Complaints Registry and
a Compliance Registry were unable to provide data about either complaints received
or compliance activities.
An analysis of requests and complaints logged on Rural City of Wangaratta’s
Customer Request Management System, in the period from 2000 to 2010, showed
identified almost 400 records emanating from rural areas of the municipality.
These are summarised below.
Animals, Domestic - At Large
Animals, Domestic - Barking dogs
Animals, Domestic - Dangerous/Menacing dog
Animals, Domestic - Dog Attack
Animals, Domestic - Other (e.g. roosters crowing)
Animals, Livestock – Other
Animals, Livestock – Stray
Dogs chasing livestock
Long grass
Environmental Health – Noise
Environmental Health – Odour
Environmental Health - Pest Control - Bees
Planning compliance
95
56
40
2
23
7
78
15
13
9
13
3
6
Given the limited information available from the system, it is reasonable to conclude
that most of these complaints can be considered to be the normal issues that arise
regularly in rural or urban situations. However, there are certain complaints, for
example dogs chasing livestock, some to do with noise and odour, long grass in rural
locations and planning enforcement that are indicative of differing values and a
degree of community conflict.
The Environment Protection Authority has provided high level data on pollution
complaints for the local government areas of Wangaratta, Alpine, Benalla and Indigo
for the last five years.
Out of a total of 1615 reports from the community in those municipalities in the five
year period, 779 were related to agricultural practices.
The following tables summarise the EPA data.
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 73
This data only relates to activities located in farming areas. However, the data may
also include multiple reports relating to single events or occurrences.
These community reports resulted in EPA issuing 13 Enforcement Notices to 11
entities.
5.7
Property Transaction Data
In the period from 1999 to 2010 there were 852 property dealings in the Farming and
former Rural Zones. These transactions involved approximately 46,500 ha of land.
The following table shows the volume and sizes of transactions.
Property size
Number Area of land
0-<10
107
681
10-<20
133
1,963
20-<30
86
1,994
30-<40
67
2,359
40-<50
136
5,892
50-<60
80
4,374
60-<70
45
2,972
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 74
70-<80
80-<90
90-<100
100-<150
150-<200
200+
41
27
26
67
18
19
852
3,119
2,386
2,558
8,230
3,310
6,671
46,509
The average size of each transaction was 54.6ha. There were more parcels of 40
ha sold than any other size and there were 25 properties sold that were 40 ha or
more but less than 42 ha.
5.8
Property Transactions by Locality
The following table shows the various localities within the Rural City of Wangaratta
and the number of property transactions
Location
No of sales
Area
Area/sale
Sales<40ha
Rose River
Peechelba East
Cheshunt South
Edi
Boorhaman
Boralma
Boorhaman North
Springhurst
Greta South
Carboor
Waldara
Boorhaman East
Oxley Flats
Murmungee
Bowmans Forest
Hansonville
Moyhu
Myrrhee
Laceby
Everton
Edi Upper
Tarrawingee
Whorouly South
Tolmie
Peechelba
Bobinawarrah
Docker
Greta
King Valley
15
7
3
8
25
11
8
40
16
12
3
3
3
8
5
17
41
29
29
23
10
25
6
7
7
26
11
15
11
2623
991
317
698
2157
946
679
3018
1179
823
204
203
193
505
312
1027
2463
1737
1697
1336
556
1381
329
378
364
1347
563
750
535
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
174.85
141.52
105.76
87.25
86.29
86.04
84.82
75.44
73.70
68.59
68.04
67.63
64.43
63.13
62.44
60.43
60.06
59.90
58.51
58.09
55.63
55.26
54.89
54.07
52.02
51.81
51.14
50.02
48.67
2
1
1
2
3
0
1
6
7
4
1
1
1
2
3
7
14
14
13
11
4
13
2
3
2
9
6
10
5
page 75
Location
Whorouly
Meadow Creek
East Wangaratta
Oxley
Byawatha
Whitfield
Whitlands
Cheshunt
Bowser
Killawarra
Archerton
Whorouly East
Dockers Plains
Greta West
Glenrowan
Londrigan
Eldorado
Markwood
Milawa
Wangaratta South
Everton Upper
North Wangaratta
Wangaratta
Wangandary
Boweya
No of sales
30
12
10
23
16
13
6
36
3
32
2
6
4
18
17
32
26
24
28
21
17
11
27
22
1
Area
1453
578
475
1086
742
583
256
1510
124
1289
80
238
155
696
649
1197
963
861
964
719
552
334
752
604
6
Area/sale
48.43
48.14
47.48
47.23
46.38
44.82
42.60
41.95
41.24
40.28
40.24
39.71
38.82
38.68
38.18
37.39
37.05
35.88
34.44
34.25
32.46
30.33
27.84
27.46
5.7
Sales<40ha
14
5
4
9
5
7
3
18
1
11
0
3
2
12
10
15
17
18
19
17
11
8
25
19
1
This table identifies several important characteristics:
• The comparatively large property sizes for sales in the northern localities of
Peechelba East, Boorhaman, Boorhaman North, Boralma and Springhurst;
• The large property sizes in southern parts of the municipality such as Rose
River, Cheshunt South, Edi, Greta South and Carboor; and
• The large number of small lots, less than 40ha, changing hands around
Londrigan, Milawa, Markwood, and Everton Upper.
This data is also represented in Map 2.
5.9
Address of Purchaser
The following summarises the origin of the purchaser.
WANGARATTA
ADDRESS
ELSEWHERE
LESS THAN
40HA
253 OR 29%
143 OR 16%
396
GREATER THAN
293 OR 34%
177 OR 20%
470
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 76
40HA
546 OR 63%
320 OR 36%
866
This table shows that almost 40% of investment in rural properties is coming from
outside the municipality and there is no clear preference by the purchasers for either
small or larger properties. Similarly for buyers from within Wangaratta, there is no
preference for either small or larger properties.
5.10
Expansion of Farming Properties
The “amenity landscape” scenario, described in Chapter 4, proposes that land
values are inflated, above their productive value, by lifestyle investors and prevent
the expansion of farming enterprises.
Two approaches were taken to determine whether or not this was the case in RCoW.
Firstly, a simple match of the name of the purchaser was made against owners of
Farming zoned properties already recorded on Council records. In other words, the
purchaser’s name, as shown on the Notice of Acquisition, was matched with the
owner of another rural property in the municipality.
However, this matching did not account for properties in corporate ownership or for
jointly owned properties where names were reversed on subsequent purchases.
This identified 139 sales, with a total area of 12,180 ha, where the purchaser was
already the owner of at least one other rural property. The 12,180 ha represents
approximately 16% of land sold in the period.
A second approach adopted involved grouping Farming zoned properties by postal
address for rate notice on the basis that these properties are likely to be farmed as
single farming enterprises. The individual properties making up the farming
enterprises were then checked against property transactions. This approach
identified 563 possible single farming enterprises involving 1,682 individual
properties. 202 of these enterprises purchased 272 properties involving 20,900ha
during the period from 1999 to 2010. In other words, almost 40% of farming
businesses expanded their area of operations in the period. The average size of
these purchases was 154ha. Only 9 of these properties were less than 10ha in size
which suggests that consolidation of small lots into larger farming enterprises is not
widely practiced.
While these two approaches give significantly different numerical outcomes, it is
clear, from either method, that owners of farming zoned land in the Rural City of
Wangaratta are significantly expanding the scale of their operations, in line with
national trends and despite the supposed inflated values of the amenity landscapes.
5.11
Building Approvals
In the period from 1999 to 2010 there were 671 new dwellings constructed in the
rural areas. Of these, 274 were constructed in Township or Rural Living zones and
397 in Rural or Farming zones. Of 397 new dwellings in the Rural or farming zones,
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 77
235 were on lots less than 40 hectares and only 162 were on lots greater than 40
hectares.
The following graph shows dwellings erected:
• In Rural/Farming Zone on lots less than 40ha;
• In Rural/Farming zone on lots greater than 40ha; and
• In other zones such as Township, Rural Living, in rural areas
50
45
40
35
30
>40ha
25
<40ha
20
Not FZ
15
10
5
0
1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011
The graph shows that for the period from 2000 to 2007, the number of dwellings
erected on small lots in the Rural/Farming areas was far greater than the number of
dwellings erected on lots of 40ha or more.
Also, for the period from 2004 to 2007 there were almost as many dwellings
constructed on small lots in the Rural/Farming zones than there were in Township
and Rural Living zones.
The following graph shows the lot sizes of dwellings constructed in the Farming
zone. The extremely large number of lots constructed on small lots is apparent as is
the number of lots constructed on lots of 40ha or slightly larger.
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 78
Dwellings
140
120
100
80
60
Dwellings
40
20
0
The large number of dwellings constructed on small lots in Rural or Farming zones is
reflected in the Planning Approvals data contained in the next section.
5.12
Planning Approvals
In the period from January 1999 to December 2010 there were 365 planning
applications received for properties in the Rural or Farming zones.
Applications were refused in 19 cases and 17 of these were for dwellings on lots less
than 40 hectares although 11 of these applications also involved overlays such as
Wildfire Management or Land Subject to Inundation. Since the introduction of the
Farming zone there have been 14 refusals.
Of the 344 applications approved:
289 were for a dwelling on lot less than 40 hectares;
13 were for more than one dwelling on a lot;
45 were affected by Rural Flood Overlay;
30 were affected by Wildfire management Overlay; and
9 by Land Subject to Inundation overlay.
Applications often involved more than one consideration.
The following graph shows the number of Planning Approvals issued for
developments in the rural areas and also the number of permits issued for dwellings
on lots less than 40ha.
The number of permits issued in the period of the Rural Zone was far greater than
has been the case since the introduction of the Farming zone. The number of
applications received was due almost entirely to applications for dwellings on small
lots in the Rural Zone which were almost invariably approved.
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 79
60
50
40
30
20
New dwellings
Lot<40ha
Issued
10
0
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 80
Chapter 6
Mapping: The Physical Attributes and Agricultural
Potential of Rural Land
The map package accompanying this report contains
Map 1
Map 2
Map 3
Map 4
Map 5
Map 6
Land versatility mapping and the extent of the aquifer ground water
system
Land sales by localities
Parcels of land <40 ha where there is no dwelling
Land parcels with dwellings
Dwellings constructed since 1999
Subdivisions since 1999
Map 1 Land Capability and Agricultural Versatility
The high quality (versatile) agricultural land has been mapped by the Department of
Agriculture and provides a guide to the range of agricultural enterprises that may be
pursued. In general, as the versatility of the land increases so do the opportunities
for agricultural diversification (Agriculture Victoria).
The definitions for the versatility classes are as follows:
Versatility Class
Description
High to very high productivity
mostly on the alluvial floodplain.
Suited to a wide variety of
Very high
horticultural and cropping
1
(Dark green)
applications.
2
High
(Light green)
3
Moderate
(Yellow)
4
Low
(Pink)
Note: Flooding risk needs to be
considered in floodplain areas.
Moderate to high productivity on
the wider alluvial plain.
Generally suited to grazing
viticulture and opportunistic
cropping.
Note: Waterlogging is an issue on
the wider alluvial plain.
Moderate to low productivity on
moderate to gentle slopes.
Commonly suited to grazing and
viticulture.
Low to moderate productivity on
steep to moderate slopes.
Typically utilised for forestry and
marginal grazing.
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
Enterprise Groups
Irrigated horticulture,
Irrigated Broadacre
cropping, Dairying,
Broadacre cropping,
Broadacre grazing,
Viticulture.
Broadacre cropping,
Broadacre grazing,
Viticulture, Forestry.
Broadacre grazing,
Viticulture, Forestry.
Forestry.
page 81
Versatility Class
5
Nil
(Red)
Description
Very low productivity or severe
landform constraints exist (e.g.
very steep slopes, rock outcrop).
Considered unsuitable for
agriculture and forestry.
Enterprise Groups
Not suitable for
agriculture.
Source: An Assessment of the Versatility of Agricultural Land in the Rural City of
Wangaratta, April 2000, Agriculture Victoria.
Map 2 Land sales by Locality
This map shows, for each Locality
The average area of land to change hands in each property transaction. The darker
colours show larger areas.
The number of sales, blue bar
The number of sales of parcels less than 40ha.
Map 3 Parcels of Land less than 40ha without a dwelling.
This map gives an indication of the extent of fragmentation and the potential demand
for rural living development in the Farming zone.
Map 4 Land parcels with dwellings
This map shows land parcels with existing dwellings. It indicates that in many areas,
every lot currently has a dwelling and further subdivision will be necessary to
accommodate further dwelling development.
Map 5 Dwelling constructed since 1999 in Farming zone.
This map shows the location of dwellings constructed in the Farming zone. The
entire area of the lot is shaded, not just the portion occupied by the dwelling.
Map 6 Subdivisions since 1999
This map shows the locations of subdivisions since 1999.
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 82
Chapter 7
Analysis and Agricultural Land and Land Use
Data
7.1
Uses of Agricultural Land
A high level survey of uses of agricultural land was carried out with the assistance of
members of Councils Agriculture and Agribusiness Advisory Committee.
Each of the committee members compile an inventory of the major land uses that
occurred in each locality of the municipality.
The inventories completed by each member were collated and are attached as
Appendix 1.
7.2
Analysis of Agricultural Land and Land Uses
The draft Rural Land Strategy identified five agricultural areas of the municipality.
Those areas were identified as having sufficiently similar characteristics and land
uses so as to provide a reasonable basis for analysis and future planning.
A more comprehensive data set has been established as part of this review. From
that data it has been possible to determine, for each Locality:
•
The area of Farming zone land, number of lots and average lot size;
•
The number of dwellings and average hectares per dwelling; and
•
The number of land sales, total area sold and average area sold.
The averages of lot size, dwelling density and areas sold, together with subdivisional
and building activity, provide an indication of the extent of development and potential
for future development.
The outcome is to largely confirm the areas identified in the earlier version of the
Strategy. However, it is important to acknowledge that there is a poor relationship
between land form and locality boundaries. Many localities cover areas of vastly
different landform and consequently the land uses are also vastly different.
Each of these areas is considered below.
Planning Area 1 – Northern Plains
This area includes the northern portion of the municipality, north of the Ovens River
and Reedy Creek.
It includes the localities of Boorhaman North, Peechelba, Peechelba East,
Boorhaman East, Boorhaman, Dockers Plains, Booralma, Springhurst and
Byawatha.
The land use is generally broadacre cropping and grazing.
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 83
Natural features include scattered remnant paddock trees and the Lower Ovens
Floodplain characterised by wetlands and stands of redgums.
The environment is valued for its wetlands, river access, native grasses, orchids and
massive red gums.
The area includes the villages of Springhurst, Peechelba and Boorhaman.
Land versatility mapping shows most of the area to be High versatility. An area to
the south and east of Springhurst is Moderate versatility.
Irrigation water is available from the Ovens River and also from the Ovens aquifer
which extends easterly from the Ovens River and potentially provides access to
significant groundwater resource at a depth of approximately 120 meters.
The area is approximately 50,000 hectares with 46,600 hectares in the Farming
zone. There are 1,250 lots in the Farming zone with an average size of 37 hectares.
There are 287 dwellings and an average of 163 hectares per dwelling. There are
almost 700 undeveloped lots less than 40 hectares and only 290 undeveloped lots
greater than 40 hectares. The average size of lots sold in the past 11 years was
76.5 hectares.
Since 1999 there have been 61 new houses built, 28 on lots greater than 40
hectares, 20 on lots less than 40 hectares and 13 in Township or other zones. There
have been 10 house lot excisions.
There has been some development activity with 25 subdivision applications creating
35 parcels from an original 25. Thirteen lots with areas of between 40 and 45
hectares were created.
Planning Area 2: - Warby Ranges
This area includes most of the western boundary of the municipality extending from
Killawarra in the north, along the eastern face of the Warby Ranges to Glenrowan
and Greta West in the south.
It includes the localities of Killawarra, Wangandary, Wangaratta South, Glenrowan,
Greta West and parts of Boweya.
The land use is generally grazing with smaller establishments closer to Wangaratta
and also includes several equine establishments, fruit and nut orchards and grape
growing and wineries.
Large sections of Warby Range have recently been incorporated into the WarbyOvens National Park, characterised by the granitic hills and woodlands of the Range
and the Killawarra Forest (Box-Ironbark).
The lower foothills of the Warby Ranges are characterised by undulating landform
which is generally cleared farmland that abuts the heavily vegetated steeper slopes.
Such land currently has planning controls to protect the landscape and intrusion of
buildings via a Significant Landscape Overlay and a Wildfire Management Overlay
abutting heavily forested land whether it be on crown or freehold parcels.
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 84
This area also includes the historic village of Glenrowan, famous for its federally
protected siege site where Ned Kelly and his gang were captured in 1880.
Rural Living zoned land extends from the Coulson Drive development in the north,
bounded by Warby Range Road to the west and its eastern boundary being Reiths
Road and the Hume Highway to its southern end at Glenrowan. It includes Hamilton
Park and Coulson Drive as significant rural residential estates.
Land versatility mapping shows the slopes and peaks of the Warby Ranges to be
Moderate to Low versatility with some areas considered Poor. However, the lower
slopes and undulating country to the east of the ranges is shown to be of High
versatility.
The area is approximately 31,400 hectares with 19,000 hectares in the Farming
zone.
There are 900 lots in the Farming zone with an average size of 21 hectares.
There are 396 dwellings and an average of 48 hectares per dwelling. There are
almost 430 undeveloped lots less than 40 hectares and only 83 undeveloped lots
greater than 40hectares. The average size of lots sold in the past 11 years was 36
hectares.
Since 1999 there have been 176 new houses built, 17 on lots greater than 40
hectares, 49 on lots less than 40 hectares and 110 in Township or other zones.
There have been 14 house lot excisions.
There has been some development activity with 28 subdivision applications creating
63 parcels from an original 38. Fifteen lots with areas of between 40 and 45
hectares were created.
Planning Area 3: - Ovens
This area includes stretches along the Ovens River from just north east of the City of
Wangaratta to Whorouly in the east. It includes the townships of Tarrawingee and
Eldorado in the north and Oxley and Milawa to the south.
It includes the localities of North Wangaratta, Bowser, Wangaratta, East Wangaratta,
Londrigan, Eldorado, Tarrawingee, Oxley Flats, Everton and Everton Upper,
Murmungee, Whorouly East, Whorouly, Markwood, Milawa and Oxley.
The Ovens river area is a Heritage Listed River. Much of the low lying land is
suitable for agriculture but not for development due to flooding constraints.
Landscape features of the area are characterised by the Ovens and King Rivers and
tributaries. In the north east part of this area there are volcanic rocky outcrops
between Springhurst and Eldorado with large granite outcrops and boulders. In the
east the Murmungee Basin is dominated by a steep granite escarpment forming a
distinct ridgeline with low lying, undulating agricultural land at its base.
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 85
The land use is generally grazing of cattle and sheep. To the north there is some
cropping and dairying along the Ovens River. Tourism is a developing industry
particularly around Milawa. Several villages including Eldorado, Tarrawingee,
Everton, Whorouly, Milawa and Oxley provide residential options for commuting to
Wangaratta and other locations. The former dairying and tobacco industries and
subdivisional activity have provided the basis for a large number of lifestyle farmers
with off-farm employment.
Land versatility mapping shows river flats along the Ovens River, from Wangaratta to
the municipal boundary at Whorouly East to be of Very High versatility. In fact this
area makes up at least half of the Very High versatility land in the municipality. The
remainder of Planning Area 3 is of High versatility, except for rising areas in the north
east from Eldorado to Murmungee in the east and south of Whorouly where the
versatility ranges from Moderate to Low.
The area is approximately 65,000 hectares with 54,000 hectares in the Farming
zone. There are areas zoned Rural Living south and north of Wangaratta and at
Tarrawingee and an area of Industrial zone at North Wangaratta. There is an area of
Crown Land around Eldorado.
There are 3077 lots in the Farming zone with an average size of 17.5 hectares.
There are 993 dwellings and an average of 54 hectares per dwelling. There are
almost 1,800 undeveloped lots less than 40 hectares and only 284 undeveloped lots
greater than 40hectares. The average size of lots sold in the past 11 years was 42
hectares.
Since 1999 there have been 304 new houses built, 47 on lots greater than 40
hectares, 110 on lots less than 40 hectares and 147 in Township or other zones.
There have been 45 house lot excisions.
There has been significant development activity with 91 subdivision applications
creating 208 parcels from an original 181. Twenty nine lots with areas of between 40
and 45 hectares were created.
Planning Area 4: - King
This area includes the lower sections of the Fifteen Mile Creek through Laceby and
the agricultural areas of Greta, Docker and Moyhu and stretches along the King
River to Cheshunt. It includes the villages of Moyhu, Whitfield and Cheshunt and the
localities of Laceby, Greta, Greta South Docker, Moyhu, Meadow Creek, Edi, King
Valley, Whitfield and Cheshunt.
The land use is generally grazing of cattle with a number of vineyards south of
Moyhu.
The sealing of the Mansfield Whitfield Road has provided a link to Mansfield and the
Yarra Valley and is a growing tourism route.
The landscape of the area varies from open agricultural plains to a more defined
valley with the King River running along the eastern edge of the Wangaratta
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 86
Whitfield Road where the valley floor is relatively narrow and is largely cleared land
used for grazing and viticulture. The hills on the rises and the top of the slopes are
well vegetated and form a distinct visual characteristic to the valley landscape.
Land versatility mapping shows most of the area to be of high versatility. However,
the King Valley and sections of Hurdle Creek and Fifteen Mile Creek are Very High
versatility. The rising areas through Greta South, Hansonville, Edi, Meadow Creek
are generally Moderate with small areas of Low versatility.
The area is approximately 76,000 hectares with 58,000 hectares in the Farming
zone. There are areas of Crown Land on the more elevated areas.
There are 2,005 lots in the Farming zone with an average size of 29 hectares.
There are 655 dwellings and an average of 89 hectares per dwelling. There are
almost 1020 undeveloped lots less than 40 hectares and only 332 undeveloped lots
greater than 40 hectares. The average size of lots sold in the past 11 years was 55
hectares.
Since 1999, there have been 109 new houses built, 45 on lots greater than 40
hectares, 49 on lots less than 40 hectares and 15 in Township or other zones. There
have been 17 house lot excisions.
There has been significant development activity with 43 subdivision applications
creating 101 parcels from an original 76. Twenty eight lots with areas of between 40
and 45 hectares were created.
Planning Area 5: - High Country
This area includes the southern and eastern extremities of the municipality and is the
more elevated and vegetated landscape. However, due the locality boundaries this
Area also includes areas of significant agricultural activity through Bobinawarrah and
Bowmans Forest.
It includes the localities of Myrrhee, Whitlands, Cheshunt South, and Rose River,
parts of Tolmie, Edi Upper, Carboor, Bobinawarrah, Whorouly South and Bowmans
Forest.
The land use is generally grazing of cattle with a number of vineyards in the higher
elevations producing cool climate wines. There are significant areas of pine
plantations around Carboor.
The upper reaches provide an important water catchment for the Fifteen Mile Creek,
King River and Rose River which eventually finds its way to Lake Buffalo and the
Ovens River.
Lake William Hovel provides recreation opportunities for locals and visitors and also
a source of irrigation water supply.
Land versatility mapping shows most of the area to be of Moderate to Low Versatility
except for areas of High versatility around Bobinawarrah and Bowmans Forest.
The landscape is dominated by heavily vegetated crown land, cleared narrow valleys
in and around the upper Rose River and Carboor and then more open rolling
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 87
pastures with road access along ridge lines affording views over rolling hills in and
around Myrrhee to Hansonville. The Alpine National Park forms a dominant
landscape feature.
The area is approximately 112,000 hectares with 42,000 hectares in the Farming
zone. There are extensive areas of Crown Land. There are 1,266 lots in the
Farming zone with an average size of 33 hectares.
There are 318 dwellings and an average of 132 hectares per dwelling. There are
668 undeveloped lots less than 40 hectares and only 280 undeveloped lots greater
than 40hectares. The average size of lots sold in the past 11 years was 72 hectares.
Since 1999 there have been 43 new houses built, 20 on lots greater than 40
hectares, 23 on lots less than 40 hectares. There have been 7 house lot excisions.
There has been little development activity with 25 subdivision applications creating
48 parcels from an original 47. Ten lots with areas of between 40 and 45 hectares
were created.
The following table summarises the data presented above for each Planning Area:
Planning
Area
FZ Area
(ha)
Lots With
Dwelling
in FZ
Average
Lot size
Average
ha per
dwelling
Vacant
Lots in
FZ <
40ha
Northern
Plains
1
46680
37.28
287
162.65
Warbys
2
18985
20.93
396
47.94
430
Ovens
3
53784
17.48
993
54.16
1801
King
High
Country
4
58374
29.11
655
89.12
1018
5
41975
33.16
318
132.00
668
677
Building Approvals
FZ
>40ha
Vacant
Lots in
FZ >=
40ha
Average
Sale
Area Sold
289
9255.03
76.49
83
4167.34
36.56
284
12414.09
41.94
332
11582.54
55.42
280
8759.57
72.39
Subdivisions
FZ<40ha
Other Zone
Number
40<45ha
<5ha
Excisions
Northern Plains
1
28
20
13
25
13
11
10
Warbys
2
17
49
110
28
15
13
14
Ovens
3
47
110
147
91
29
59
45
King
4
45
49
15
43
28
28
17
High Country
5
20
23
25
10
8
7
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 88
Chapter 8
Conclusions and Issues for Further Consideration
Historical Planning Arrangements: 40 ha was a common trigger for subdivision
and right to a dwelling in the former Shires. However, the former Shire of Oxley also
had a 100ha minimum for subdivisions and dwelling in its Rural 2 zone. The former
Shire of Wangaratta generally required a permit for a dwelling and the former Shire
of Yarrawonga required a permit for all houses.
Rural Productivity Policy: this policy was introduced into the SPPF in late 2010. It
aims at limiting new housing development in rural areas including development of
isolated small lots, seeks to direct development into existing settlements and
encourages consolidation of isolated small lots.
Rural Land Use and Agriculture: this local policy has a number of aims including
to minimize potential amenity impacts, ensure subdivisions and rural housing are
directly linked to agricultural use, particularly in higher productivity and versatility
areas.
Wangaratta 2030 Community Vision: sees the growth of rural townships and the
protection of high value agricultural land and its preservation for agriculture.
Community Planning: several Community Plans call for zoning or planning support
for growth of rural villages. One plan specifically calls for limitations on lifestyle
blocks.
Landscape Character Assessment: recommendation that Significant Landscape
Overlays should be applied to King Valley generally south of Moyhu to south of
Whitfield, a 500m ribbon alongside the Hume Freeway at Glenrowan Gap and to a
revised schedule for the Warby Ranges.
Bushfire Royal Commission outcomes have significance for small lots in high
bushfire risk areas.
Hume Strategy: proposes directing population growth to settlements with greatest
capacity to accommodate and retaining productive rural land for agriculture and
other compatible rural uses.
Future Farms Strategy: proposed large number of actions including to identify and
set aside areas for agriculture and primary production, recognise the ‘right to farm”
separate the right to subdivide rural land from expectation to develop a dwelling and
reintroduce tenement provisions. Also proposed expanding the use of rural land for
tourism, visitor, recreation and outdoor uses.
Lower Ovens Groundwater Resource Assessment: has identified a significant
groundwater resource, with water quantity and quality, with potential to support major
agricultural redevelopment, particularly for north of Wangaratta but also through the
Ovens and King districts south and east of Wangaratta.
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 89
Community consultation: two rounds of consultation produced some similar and a
number of different messages. In both rounds there was concern about the
economic sustainability of agriculture, the ageing of farmers and the loss of vitality of
rural communities. In both rounds there was concern about the undermining of “right
to farm’ but, at the same time, many argued for relaxation, rather than tightening, of
controls. In both rounds many argued that changing rules would affect
superannuation and succession plans while many argued that young people aren’t
interested in agriculture so there is no succession. Some argued that subdivision
was a necessary response to low farming profits and others considered this added to
problems.
The Rural Conservation Zone, proposed prior to the second round, was seen as a
handicap and the 250ha minimum lot size for a dwelling was subsequently ruled
out by the Minister.
Agricultural trends: general view is that farms will get bigger (and the inevitability of
less farms) or get very small. A third option is get off-farm work. Small farms are
seen by some to be a problems (drive up land prices, biosecurity risk, food safety
threat or poor resource managers) while others argue the contrary position (small
and efficient, look after the land, have access to capital). There is also a strong view
that small farms add to social capital.
Small farms and rural living: there is a point where the intensity of residential use
tips the balance of the use from agriculture to residential.
Property transactions: 40ha is the most common size for a rural sale whereas the
average sale was 54.6ha. This suggests that the subdivision lot size set out in the
Planning Scheme is becoming a default size that overrides agricultural decisions.
The Ovens Planning Area: is an area for particular attention. It includes a high
proportion of the Very High versatility soils as well as having access to irrigation
water, both surface and groundwater. However, it also shows the highest degree of
lot fragmentation with an average lot size of only 17.48 ha and already the most
number of dwellings and the second highest dwelling density. Over 40% of the
undeveloped lots in the municipality are in this area. In addition, there is already a
high level of property turnover and the most development activity in the form of
subdivisions.
Farm expansion: Around 550 farming enterprises owned 1682 individual properties
in 1999. In the period from 1999 to 2010, 202 of these enterprises purchased a
further 272 properties (20,900ha). The average size of the purchases was 154ha.
This suggests farm expansion activity is continuing despite suggestions that rural
land has been priced out of the reach of farmers.
Dwellings in Rural areas: There has been significant residential development in
rural areas since 1999. Of 671 dwellings, 397 were in Farming or Rural zones and
235 were on lots less than 40 hectares. Planning approvals show that there were
289 permits approved for dwellings, on lots less than 40 hectares in the period. In
the period there were just 17 refusals of applications for dwellings on small lots and
11 of these related to overlays. This record begs the question as to the point of a
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 90
policy requiring permits for dwellings on small lots when almost all are subsequently
approved.
Dwellings and Farming zone: The introduction of the Farming zone in 2006
resulted in a dramatic reduction in both applications and dwellings. Since 2009 there
have been more dwellings constructed on lots greater than 40ha than on smaller lots
and in 2011 only one house was constructed on a small lot. The number of
applications for dwelling on small lots has reduced from almost 50 in 2001 to less
than 10 per year since 2007.
Excisions: in the 1999 to 2010 period there have been around 70 excisions of
dwellings in the Rural and Farming zones. The separation of these dwellings from
the farming property can have the same effect as allowing dwellings on small lots.
While the Rural Productivity policy seeks to prevent urban activities in rural areas,
the current arrangements for excisions actually allow those activities to occur.
Complaints and Conflict: the available data is inconclusive as to the extent of
conflict that occurs around differing landuses. Environment Protection Authority data
suggests that there may be instances of disputation. However, the avoidance of
conflict is a recurring theme in most rural land use strategies and in the writings of
planning researchers. There are also anecdotal reports of disagreements about
farming practices in certain locations. However, it would seem that if conflict was not
an issue, then there would be much less interest in farmers pursuing the “right to
farm” principle.
Demographics: feedback during the consultation stages was that restricting the
development of dwellings had contributed to the loss of vitality in rural communities.
Further, if more dwellings were constructed, rural communities would prosper and
grow. In fact, there has been already been a substantial increase in the number of
dwellings in recent years; almost 700 since 1999. Of these almost 400 were in
Farming or Rural zones and only 274 in Township or Rural Living zones. In the
period from 1991 to 2006, the number of residents of rural areas has grown from
8,829 to 9,156. At the same time, the proportion of older people increased and the
numbers of young people decreased. In short, 700 new houses in 11 years, 327
new residents in 15 years and everyone older. On these figures there is little
connection between housing growth, the number of residents or of the age
distribution.
Rural Living Development Pressure: The planning for future demand for rural
living is priority for Council. The following summary shows that there is a significant
supply of land that, if converted to rural living, could result in a “broadacre” rural
living outcome.
Significant areas of land, along the Ovens River, have restricted development
potential due to potential for flooding. However, the existing sealed road network
provides good access to urban Wangaratta and therefore this area is a highly
desirable location for rural living. In addition, no large scale successor to the former
tobacco industry has emerged as yet. The many dwellings, previously used by that
industry, could be excised using current provisions.
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 91
The situation with the Warby planning area is similar. However, there is no land of
very high versatility. Much of the area is of high versatility. There is very little
access to irrigation water.
The area of south of Wangaratta, in the King planning area, has the least
development activity but a large number of small vacant lots.
In aggregate, there are 2,660 lots in the Farming zone that are less than 40 ha, do
not have a dwelling and are not affected by overlays.
There are around 1,940 lots affected by overlays (overlays don’t mean building is
banned; just a permit trigger) providing a supply of 4,600 small lots in total that could
be suitable rural residential lots.
Consideration will also need to be given to pricing of lots. Rural living lots are
probably more expensive than vacant lot in Farming zone and as a result there is an
incentive for prospective rural dwellers to buy cheaper lot and try to win approval for
a dwelling.
Careful consideration needs to be given to areas for rezoning to Rural Living. The
Planning scheme local policy discourages residential development on land of High or
Very High versatility. This approach restricts residential development to the areas of
lower versatility which are also, generally, the steeper vegetated areas that are less
suited for development.
Protecting Agricultural Land: State Planning Policy objective is “To protect
productive farmland which is of strategic significance in the local or regional context.”
The State policy specifically refers to protecting against the unplanned loss of
productive agricultural land due to permanent changes of land-use and subdivision is
not to detract from the long-term productive capacity of the land.
The policy allows for the conversion of agricultural land, including land of Very High
and High agricultural versatility, however that conversion must be planned. Rather
than allow the opportunistic conversion of small lots in the Farming zone to
residential use State policy also requires the “Encouraging (of) consolidation of
existing isolated small lots in rural zones.”
Planning Approach: The State Planning Policy objective is to “Prevent
inappropriately dispersed urban activities in rural areas.” Strategies to achieve that
objective are to limit new housing development in rural areas, by directing housing
growth into existing settlements, discouraging development of isolated small lots in
the rural zones from use for single dwellings, rural living or other incompatible uses,
encouraging consolidation of existing isolated small lots in rural zones and
restructure old and inappropriate subdivisions.
Council’s local policy elaborates slightly on the State requirements by requiring that
housing in rural areas support rural activities and production and is not undertaken to
meet rural lifestyle objectives that may conflict with the rural use of the land.
While the current arrangements of the WPS are broadly similar to those that have
applied for more than 20 years, the introduction of the Farming zone has resulted in
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 92
a reduction in the number of dwellings approvals for small lots in the farming zone.
For the period from 1999 to 2010 there were 94 excisions and 235 dwellings
constructed on small lots (total 329) compared to 274 dwellings in Townships or
Villages and 162 on larger lots in FZ. The graphs in section show the reduction in
dwelling approvals over the past four years.
Social Outcomes: As has been documented in other parts of this report, the
changing circumstances facing farmers make it almost inevitable that increasing size
of farms and reduced labour requirements are the inevitable outcomes of the
evolutionary development of our economy and society.
Locally, the number of houses has continued to grow as has population although at a
slower rate. As has been indicated above, the majority of this housing has been
constructed in farming zone and the minority in Township and Rural Living zones.
Despite this, there is a strong sense of rural decline. A large amount of feedback to
the first round of consultation argued for an increase in rural housing to restore the
vitality of rural area. Despite increase in housing numbers and population, there has
been an ageing in Wangaratta or elsewhere.
Draft Rural Land Strategy – Background and Issues Paper
page 93
RURAL LAND STRATEGY
2/15/2012
Draft 2
PURPOSE
This document summarises the key issues relating to rural
land use in the Rural City of Wangaratta and also
summarises proposed actions to respond to those issues.
The document forms part of a project involving:
• The first draft Rural Land Strategy produced in March
2011;
• The Rural Land Strategy Background and Issues paper;
and
• A 2009 Landscape Assessment and 2012 Review.
Table of Contents
PROCESS .................................................................................................................................................... 2
LAND USE POLICY CONTEXT .................................................................................................................... 3
STATE POLICY....................................................................................................................................... 4
LOCAL PLANNING POLICY ........................................................................................................................ 6
REGIONAL SETTLEMENT STRATEGY .......................................................................................................... 7
HUME STRATEGY ....................................................................................................................................... 7
ISSUES FROM BACKGROUND AND ISSUES PAPER ................................................................................... 8
VISION ..................................................................................................................................................... 10
PROPOSALS .............................................................................................................................................. 11
1.
Minimum lot sizes for dwellings in the Farming zone........................................................... 11
2.
Dwellings on small lots in Farming zone ................................................................................. 12
3.
Minimum lot sizes for subdivisions in the Farming zone....................................................... 15
4.
Excisions........................................................................................................................................ 16
5.
Second and subsequent dwellings on a lot ........................................................................... 16
6.
Tourism to build on and diversify agricultural activity ........................................................ 17
7.
Grow the villages ....................................................................................................................... 18
8.
Landscape protection of key areas ........................................................................................ 20
9.
Glenrowan Myrtleford Road – Oxley to Markwood ......................................................... 22
10.
West Wangaratta/Warby Ranges precinct ..................................................................... 23
11.
Rural Conservation Zone and Wildfire Management Overlay ..................................... 25
12.
Rating......................................................................................................................................... 25
13.
Decision making and Delegation .......................................................................................... 26
CONCLUSION ........................................................................................................................................... 27
Page 1
RURAL LAND STRATEGY
DRAFT 2
PROCESS
As a first step in this process, Council produced a first draft Rural Land Strategy (DRLS). At its
meeting on 15 March 2011 Council resolved:
“That Council adopt the draft Rural Land Strategy and place it on exhibition for a period
of 2 months and undertake a program of community consultation seeking feedback on
the strategy.”
That decision commenced a significant communication process involving mail-out of
information, one-on-one consultations, small group briefings and four community meetings.
During the consultation process, Council’s Mayor and Chief Executive Officer met with the
Minister for Planning, to clarify his position regarding aspects of the DRLS.
The Minister advised that he:
• did not support a 250 hectare minimum for the “as of right” construction of a dwelling in
the Farming zone;
• did not offer an alternative and encouraged Council to work through other options, in
consultation with the community;
• did not support discontinuing the DRLS and had no opinions on other elements of it; and
• preferred that Council continue with the process and respond to the issues as part of the
review.
Feedback from the community in the form of 400 written submissions was also received.
The Council also resolved to establish and Agriculture and Agribusiness Advisory Committee
(AAAC) to provide input into planning and policy relating to agriculture and agribusiness and
advise on agricultural land and water resource issues, among other things.
This Draft 2 Rural Land Strategy has taken into account the Minister’s advice, feedback
received from the consultation, further information that is now to hand and the input of the
AAAC.
Page 2
LAND USE POLICY CONTEXT
Like all planning schemes in Victoria, the Rural City of Wangaratta Planning Scheme
comprises a State Planning Policy Framework (SPPF) and a Local Planning Policy Framework
(LPPF).
The SPPF comprises general principles for land use and development and specific policies
dealing with settlement, environment, housing, economic development, infrastructure, and
particular uses and development. To ensure integrated decision-making, planning authorities
and responsible authorities must take account of and give effect to the general principles and
specific policies contained in the SPPF.
The LPPF sets a local and regional strategic policy context for a municipality. It comprises the
Municipal Strategic Statement and specific local policies.
The LPPF must not operate inconsistently with the SPPF and should where possible
demonstrate how broader state planning policies will be achieved or implemented in a local
context.
If there is an inconsistency between the SPPF and LPPF, the SPPF prevails.
The rural provisions of the Rural City of Wangaratta Planning Scheme are largely a carryover
from those of the former municipalities rather than an outcome of strategic intent. The
implementation of the Farming zone resulted in a direct translation of every Rural zone parcel
into the Farming zone and continued many of the provisions of the formers municipalities.
A selection of zones and overlays can be used to implement the policy framework. Each zone
has a purpose and provides for uses that either do not require a permit, or require a permit or
are prohibited. Zones have permit triggers for subdivision and certain buildings and works.
Decision Guidelines assist in assessing and determining applications. Schedules to the zones
allow certain variables to be included. However, Council is only able to vary a small number of
matters so that the zone remains uniform across Victoria.
A Farming zone schedule can specify such matters as the minimum lot size for subdivision, set
a permit trigger above which a permit is not required for a dwelling, set distances for buildings
to be setback from boundaries and to prescribe if a permit is required for earthworks.
An Overlay is used to recognise a certain feature or characteristic such as a bushfire or
flooding risk or landscape significance. An overlay has permit triggers for buildings and works
and does not generally control land use.
Page 3
STATE POLICY
There are five State policies that have particular relevance to this project.
Policy & Objective
11.05-3
Rural Productivity
Strategy
Prevent inappropriately dispersed urban activities in
rural areas.
Objective
Limit new housing development in rural areas, including:
• Directing housing growth into existing settlements.
• Discouraging development of isolated small lots in
the rural zones from use for single dwellings, rural
living or other incompatible uses.
To manage land use change and
development in rural areas to
promote agriculture and rural
production.
Encouraging consolidation of existing isolated small lots
in rural zones.
Objective
Restructure old and inappropriate subdivisions.
Ensure that the State’s agricultural base is protected
from the unplanned loss of productive agricultural land
due to permanent changes of land use.
To protect productive farmland
this is of strategic significance in
the local or regional context.
Consult with the Department of Primary Industries and
utilise available information to identify areas of
productive agricultural land.
Protection of agricultural land
Take into consideration regional, state and local issues
and characteristics in the assessment of agricultural
quality and productivity.
Permanent removal of productive agricultural land from
the State's agricultural base must not be undertaken
without consideration of its economic importance for the
agricultural production and processing sectors.
Sustainable agricultural land use
Objective
To encourage sustainable
agricultural land use.
Page 4
Subdivision of productive agricultural land should not
detract from the long-term productive capacity of the
land.
Ensure agricultural and productive rural land use
activities are managed to maintain the long-term
sustainable use and management of existing natural
resources.
Encourage sustainable agricultural and associated rural
land use and support and assist the development of
innovative approaches to sustainable practices.
Support effective agricultural production and processing
Policy & Objective
14.02-1
Catchment planning and
management
Objective
Strategy
infrastructure, rural industry and farm-related retailing
and assist genuine farming enterprises to adjust flexibly
to market changes.
Facilitate the establishment and expansion of cattle
feedlots, piggeries, poultry farms and other intensive
animal industries in a manner consistent with orderly
and proper planning and protection of the environment.
Planning must consider as relevant:
Any regional catchment strategies approved under the
Catchment and Land Protection Act 1994 and any
associated implementation plan or strategy including
any regional river health and wetland strategies.
To assist the protection and,
where possible, restoration of
catchments, waterways, water
bodies, groundwater, and the
marine environment.
Any special area plans approved under the Catchment
and Land Protection Act 1994.
14.02-2
Protect reservoirs, water mains and local storage
facilities from potential contamination.
Water quality
Objective
To protect water quality.
Ensure that land use activities potentially discharging
contaminated runoff or wastes to waterways are sited
and managed to minimise such discharges and to
protect the quality of surface water and groundwater
resources, rivers, streams, wetlands, estuaries and
marine environments.
Discourage incompatible land use activities in areas
subject to flooding, severe soil degradation, groundwater
salinity or geotechnical hazards where the land cannot
be sustainably managed to ensure minimum impact on
downstream water quality or flow volumes.
Prevent the establishment of incompatible land uses in
aquifer recharge or saline discharge areas and in
potable water catchments.
Page 5
LOCAL PLANNING POLICY
The strategic directions from the Local Planning Policy Framework of the Planning Scheme are
also relevant.
Rural Land Use and Agriculture
Encourage the growth and development of
environmentally and economically sustainable
agricultural enterprises.
Recognise and protect agriculture and other rural uses
as significant economic strengths, social capital and
productive resources.
Maintain the productivity and versatility of agricultural
land, particularly in higher agricultural productivity and
versatility areas.
Establish the municipality as the primary centre for the
wine industry in north eastern Victoria.
Minimise potential amenity impacts between rural
agricultural uses and rural lifestyle uses, particularly in
higher agricultural productivity and versatility areas.
Maintain and enhance the potential for viticultural use
and development particularly in the Milawa, Oxley and
King Valley areas.
Ensure that any subdivision and rural housing proposals
in higher agricultural productivity and versatility areas
are directly linked to an agricultural use, retain
productive agricultural use of the land and area, protect
the economic potential of the land and area for
agriculture, and are not used for rural lifestyle purposes.
Encourage and protect the potential for intensive animal
industries, such as broiler farms, in appropriate
locations.
Subdivision and housing
Support timber production and processing as locational
and economic strengths of the area and region.
Ensure that rural subdivision and housing is provided
with a level of infrastructure that is required for that use
or development.
Ensure that any subdivision of land for ‘house lot
excision’ maintains the agricultural land resource by
minimising the parcel size of an existing house that is to
be excised and maintaining a large vacant balance of
land for agricultural purposes.
Page 6
REGIONAL SETTLEMENT STRATEGY
In addition, the Regional Settlement Strategy proposes:
• Balancing strategic objectives to achieve improved land-use and development outcomes
at a regional, catchment and local level; and
• Preserving and protecting features of rural land and natural resources and features to
enhance their contribution to settlements and landscapes.
HUME STRATEGY
The Hume Strategy for Sustainable Communities, a regional response to the State policy,
proposes directing population growth to settlements with greatest capacity to accommodate
and retaining productive rural land for agriculture and other compatible rural uses.
Page 7
ISSUES FROM BACKGROUND AND ISSUES PAPER
Community consultation – Two rounds of consultation produced some similar and a number
of different messages. In both rounds there was concern about the economic sustainability of
agriculture, the ageing of farmers and the loss of vitality of rural communities. In both rounds
there was concern about the undermining of “right to farm’ but, at the same time, many
supported relaxation, rather than tightening, of planning controls. In both rounds many
contended that changing rules would affect superannuation and succession plans, while a
number suggested that young people aren’t interested in agriculture so there is no succession.
Some argued that subdivision was a necessary response to low farming profits and others
considered this added to problems.
Agricultural trends – The general view is that farms will get bigger (with the inevitability of
less farms) or get very small. A third option is for farmers to get off-farm work. Small farms are
seen by some to be a source of problems (drive up land prices, increase biosecurity risk, food
safety threat or poor resource managers) while others argue the contrary position (small and
efficient, look after the land, have access to capital). There is also a strong view that small
farms add to social capital.
Farm expansion – The Wangaratta region has been described as an Amenity Landscape
where the amenity attribute inflates property valuations beyond their productive value. This is
supposed to prevent farmers from expanding their operations and holdings or increase the risk
of farm business failure. However, review of property transactions has shown that this appears
not to be the case in the Rural City of Wangaratta. Around 550 farming enterprises owned
1682 individual properties in 1999. In the period from 1999 to 2010, 202 of these enterprises
purchased a further 272 properties (20,900ha). The average size of the purchases was
154ha. This suggests farm expansion activity is continuing despite suggestions that rural land
has been priced out of the reach of farmers.
Dwellings in Rural areas – There have been significant residential developments in rural
areas. Since 1999, of 671 dwellings constructed in rural areas, 397 were in Farming or Rural
zones and 235 of these were on lots less than 40 hectares. In the same period, 289 planning
permits were approved for dwellings, on lots less than 40 hectares. In the period there were
just 17 refusals of applications for dwellings on small lots and 11 of these related to overlays.
Dwellings and Farming zone – The introduction of the Farming zone in 2006 has resulted in
a dramatic reduction in both applications and dwellings on small lots. Since 2009 there have
been more dwellings constructed on lots greater than 40ha than on smaller lots and in 2011
only one house was constructed on a small lot. The number of applications for dwellings on
small lots has reduced from almost 50 in 2001 to less than 10 per year since 2007.
Demographics – Feedback during the consultation stages suggested that restricting the
development of dwellings had contributed to the loss of vitality in rural communities. Further, if
more dwellings were constructed, rural communities would prosper and grow. In fact, there
has been already been a substantial increase in the number of dwellings in recent years;
almost 700 since 1999. Of these almost 400 were in Farming or Rural zones and only 274 in
Township or Rural Living zones. In this same time period, the number of residents of rural
areas has grown from 8,829 to 9,156. At the same time, the proportion of older people
Page 8
increased and the numbers of young people decreased. In summary, there have been 700
new houses constructed, rural population has increased by 327 new residents and but there
has been a continual ageing. There appears to be almost no connection between dwelling
construction and the number of residents or of the age distribution.
Social Outcomes – As has been documented in accompanying Background and Issues
Paper, the changing circumstances facing farmers make it almost inevitable that increasing
size of farms and reduced labour requirements are the outcomes of the evolutionary
development of our economy and society.
Economics – Agriculture is a significant sector of the local economy. In 2006 agriculture was
the fourth most important employer, with 1,117 people employed, in the Rural City of
Wangaratta. There are also another 288 jobs that relate to value adding manufacture in the
areas of timber, meat and dairy products.
The Gross Value of Agricultural Production statistics show that beef, fruit and grape production
increased from 1997 to 2006 whereas sheep and broadacre cropping both decreased. It must
be noted that 2006 was also the last year of tobacco production and the extremely dry seasons
between 2003 to 2006 also impacted production.
Development in Water Supply Catchments - Ministerial Guidelines regarding Planning
Permit applications in open, potable water supply catchment areas were released in May 2009.
The Guidelines require that the density of dwellings in declared catchments should be no more
than one dwelling per 40 hectares and each lot created in a subdivision should be at least 40
hectares. The declared Ovens catchment area includes almost all of the Rural City of
Wangaratta, extending south and east from the Hume freeway and Reedy Creek. The
interpretation and application of the guidelines are currently subject to a Victorian Civil and
Administrative Tribunal test case. The outcomes of that case and of the State Government’s
response could be significant matter for future development.
Page 9
VISION
The Rural City of Wangaratta 2030 Community Vision sets out the community view of the rural
landscape in 2030.
The Vision is:
“In 2030 the Rural City of Wangaratta maintains a sustainable balance between urban and
rural environments; each benefiting from the other…The rural townships have grown in size to
meet service and infrastructure needs. The growth in population across rural townships has
been instrumental in reviving these communities…The high-value and productive rural
agricultural land in the Rural City of Wangaratta has been strongly preserved for agricultural
activities. This has maintained the rural feel of the area and ensured that agriculture continues
to form a key element of the local economy.”
Page 10
PROPOSALS
1.
Minimum lot sizes for dwellings in the Farming zone
Background:
The Background and Issues paper showed that there has been significant residential
development in rural areas, often in the Farming or Rural zones and more often than not,
on lots less than 40 hectares. (670 dwelling in rural areas, almost 400 in Farming or
Rural zone and 235 of these on lots less than 40 hectares)
The introduction of the Farming zone has reduced the number of dwellings being
constructed on small lots from an average of almost 30 per year to only one in 2011.
There are approximately 8,500 lots or parcels in the Farming zone. Of these, 2,650 have
dwellings. There are 2,820 dwellings in total with some parcels having multiple dwellings.
Approximately 1,980 or 75% of the lots with dwellings are less than 40ha.
There are approximately 5,850 lots in the Farming zone that do not have a dwelling.
Almost 1,270 of these are greater than 40ha and of these 920 are not subject to any
Overlay. Of the 4,580 lots that are less than 40 hectares, 2,660 are not subject to any
Overlay.
There are more than 500 properties of 80ha or more that have the potential to be further
subdivided into possibly more than 1,500 lots of 40ha.
In summary, there is the potential for a further 920 as of right dwellings, another 2,660 on
lots of less than 40 hectares without Overlay restriction and a further 1,920 where
Overlays have been applied. Up to 1,500 lots could be created subject to meeting the
subdivision requirements.
There is, therefore considerable potential for further dwelling development in the Farming
zone.
As a result, the first Draft Rural Land Strategy proposed increasing the minimum lot size
for as of right construction for a dwelling to 250ha. The rationale for this proposal was
that the risk of encroachment of rural residential development onto agricultural land was
such that all dwellings should be required to seek a planning permit. In order for all
dwellings to be required to seek a permit it was initially proposed that there be no as-ofright. However, further advice suggested that a minimum size was mandatory. As a
result the 250ha minimum was included on the basis that almost all new dwelling
developments in the Farming zone would require a permit. This proposal was
subsequently vetoed by the Minister.
Much of the feedback received on the draft Rural Land Strategy expressed concern that a
“One size fits all” or “broadbrush approach” did not adequately reflect the differing
characteristics and land uses across the municipality.
Page 11
As a result, consideration was given to including in this Draft 2 Rural Land Strategy,
potential planning areas, zones or localities where particular development controls could
apply. Characteristics such as soil versatility, access to irrigation water, existing dwelling
densities, existing land uses etc were considered as bases for defining zones. For
example, the very high versatility soils and irrigation water along the Ovens River, the
possible future intensification of agriculture along the aquifer north of Wangaratta, and the
fragmented holdings west of Wangaratta to the Warby Ranges were all considered as
zones for specific planning arrangements.
However, the difficulties associated with defining boundaries of the potential zones
together with the perceived inequities created where neighbouring properties would have
differing as-of-right entitlements led to a view that those options should not be included in
this Draft 2 Rural Land Strategy.
Further, a significant number of submissions argued that the 40ha minimum lot size for a
dwelling did not cause land to be lost to agriculture because properties of 40ha or more
are too large not to farm in some way. A number of submissions cited personal
experience that a 40ha property with a grazing operation was an ideal complement to offfarm employment.
Conclusion:
Given the lack of compelling evidence to support one size over another or of any
conclusive methodology for determining minimum lot sizes, a case for change to the
minimum lot size, for an as of right dwelling, cannot be substantiated.
Proposal:
Retain 40ha as the minimum lot size for an as of right dwelling in the Farming zone for
lots that currently exist.
2.
Dwellings on small lots in Farming zone
Background:
As indicated above there are a large number of lots in the Farming zone without
dwellings. There has been and continues to be pressure for residential development on
many of these rural areas.
Proposal 1 above has confirmed that an as of right to a dwelling, in the Farming zone, will
continue to apply where the lot is 40ha or more.
However, there are two situations where a dwelling may be permitted on a lot of less than
40ha. The first is where it can be demonstrated that the dwelling is necessary for the
agricultural activity. The second is where an isolated lot has no agricultural value and the
alternative, long term use could be residential. These exceptions are discussed below.
Page 12
1. Dwelling necessary for the agricultural activity:
The State Planning Policy Framework aims to “Limit new housing development in rural
areas, including:
• Directing housing growth into existing settlements;
• Discouraging development of isolated small lots in the rural zones from use for
single dwellings, rural living or other incompatible uses; and
• Encouraging consolidation of existing isolated small lots in rural zones.”
The Decision Guidelines for deciding on the construction of a dwelling include an
important test as to “whether the dwelling is reasonably required for the operation of the
agricultural activity carried out on the land.”
Council’s Local Policy attempts to further clarify this Guideline by making it necessary to
“ensure that any dwelling proposal has a relationship with and is required to directly
support the continuing operation of an existing rural land use conducted on the land.”
The previous Draft Rural Land Strategy proposed that: “It must be clearly demonstrated
that the dwelling is essential to carry out an agricultural activity on the land. New
dwellings in the Farming zone will only be approved in order to support rural activities and
production and will not be supported where the underlying intention of the dwelling is to
meet rural lifestyle objectives”.
Other Councils have also attempted to clarify these requirements. One requires that the
“…primary use of land will continue to be agriculture”. (Geelong) Another specifies that
“The dwelling should be necessary to support the ongoing or planned farming activity on
the land and any adjacent land.” (Ballarat)
Feedback on the DRLS suggested that the density of dwellings was also a consideration.
In addition, the Guidelines for Development in Open, Potable Water Supply Catchment
Areas also require that dwelling density should not be greater than one dwelling per 40
hectares.
Conclusion:
State Planning Policy aims to limit new houses in rural areas and Council’s existing Local
Policy requires any new dwelling to directly support an existing rural land use.
Proposal:
Council policy will continue to discourage dwellings in the Farming zone unless the
dwelling is reasonably required for the operation of the agricultural activity and the
dwelling density of not more than one dwelling per 40ha can be maintained.
Page 13
2. Isolated lots with no agricultural value
The first Draft Rural Land Strategy identified a number of areas, within the Farming zone,
where the construction of dwellings made it unlikely that agriculture would ever again
become the predominant land use.
These locations included Greta West, Henley Ridge and the Wilson Road area of
Wangandary. The first Draft Rural Land Strategy proposed defining boundaries for these
localities and allowing residential development within those boundaries subject to certain
conditions. However, the consultation feedback has brought forward a number of other
locations and smaller, isolated lots that often have no agricultural value.
Further, the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal recently overturned a Council
decision and allowed a dwelling on a small parcel of land in the Farming zone. The
decision was on the basis that the land had minimal agricultural value, the dwelling would
not result in loss of agricultural land and the land would not be fragmented from
agricultural production. The decision also noted that Council’s policies did not provide for
land that was not usable for agricultural activities.
Conclusion:
Considering that State policy aims to discourage development of isolated small lots from
use for dwellings there may be still situations where residential development is an
acceptable long term use. In addition, rather than attempting to identify all locations
where future residential development could be approved, it is preferable to develop
criteria to be applied to all applications for dwellings on small lots.
Proposal:
Council policy will continue to discourage dwellings in the Farming zone unless it can be
demonstrated that the dwelling satisfies the following criteria:
•
Small lot less than 4ha;
•
Be of minimal agricultural value e.g. low agricultural versatility;
•
Not be able to be physically consolidated with other agricultural land;
•
Access via a road in Council’s Register of Public Roads;
•
Complies with Ministerial Guideline regarding development in Water Supply
Catchment;
•
Not the result of a new subdivision(after 1 July 2012);
•
No access to irrigation water;
•
Surrounded by roads, rail, public land or residential development;
•
Not totally covered by an overlay;
•
Waste water disposal adequacy; and
•
Adequate water supply.
Page 14
3.
Minimum lot sizes for subdivisions in the Farming zone
Background:
The Farming zone intends, among other things, to provide land for agriculture, encourage
retention of productive agricultural land and ensure that other uses, particularly dwellings,
do not adversely affect the use of land for agriculture.
Of the 8,500 parcels or lots in the Farming zone there are 6,580 lots that are less than
40ha and these make up 35% of the land area of the zone. Of these 4,590 do not have
dwellings.
There are a further 1,430 lots that are between 40 and 80ha and these make up 44% of
the area of the Farming zone. There are more than 930 lots with sizes of between 40ha
and 80ha that do not have a dwelling
In aggregate, 8,003 lots or 94% of lots are less than 80ha. In area terms, 79% of the
area of the Farming zone is made up of lots of less than 80ha.
In regard to subdivisional activity, in the period from 1999 to 2010, there were 95 lots
created with sizes of between 40ha and 45 ha. Land sales data shows that the most
common size for a property sale is between 40ha and 50ha with 25 sales of properties
between 40ha and 42 ha.
Conclusion:
With 79% of the rural area in lots of 80ha or less and 35% in lots of 40ha or less, the
Farming zone is already highly fragmented. Subdivision activity continues to create more
lots of 40ha than any other size because these are highly marketable.
Feedback on the DRLS suggested that the creation of 40ha lots did not result in the loss
of productive agricultural land. However, there is also a contrary view that the continued
subdivision of broadacre agricultural areas is undesirable. There are economic
arguments, supported by evidence, that economies of scale are particularly important in
broadacre farming areas. This would suggest that further fragmentation is undesirable in
many localities across the municipality.
In addition, there is potential for a large number of dwellings to be developed on existing
lots of 40ha and there is no need to create further lots for dwellings.
Proposal:
Lots created by subdivision after 1 July 2012, must be 40ha or more and will not have an
automatic right to a dwelling but may apply for a permit for a dwelling.
Page 15
4.
Excisions
Background:
In the period from 1999 to 2010, there were approximately 100 dwelling excisions in the
Rural and Farming zones. The separation of these dwellings from the farming property
can have the same effect as allowing dwellings on small lots in that it results in the
establishment of uses that are Rural Living rather than Farming.
There are also 165 properties that have more than one dwelling and 180 additional
dwellings on total on those properties. Many of these additional dwellings are in areas
that were previously tobacco growing areas.
While the State provisions enable only one dwelling to be excised, and also require an
agreement to prevent the further subdivision of any new lots created, the Farming zone
provisions don’t require the balance lot to be at least the minimum lot size of the zone.
There are also many excisions made before the Farming zone was introduced and as a
result there are no agreements to prevent further subdivision. There are locations where
excisions have already established rural living enclaves in areas that are most suited to
agriculture.
Conclusion:
While the Rural Productivity policy seeks to prevent urban activities in rural areas, the
current arrangements enabling the excision of existing dwellings allow those activities to
occur. There is also likely to be ongoing demand for excisions, particularly as the former
tobacco growing areas are redeveloped, as landowners seek to separate non-agricultural
assets from agricultural land.
Proposal:
Council seeks Ministerial support for a removal of the clause enabling the excision of an
existing dwelling, from the Farming zone.
In the event that the Minister will not support that proposal, then Council policy will:
•
Strongly discourage excisions; and
•
Where excisions are approved, that it be on the proviso that the balance lot must be
greater than 40HA and further subdivision or construction of a new dwelling, on the
balance lot will be removed by an agreement registered on title for each lot created.
5.
Second and subsequent dwellings on a lot
Background:
A number of submissions on the DRLS proposed that a second or subsequent dwelling
on a lot should be encouraged as a solution to family succession or farm labour needs.
Page 16
The Farming zone allows for more than one dwelling on a lot but a permit is required and
the Decision Guidelines are the same as those for a dwelling on a lot of less than 40ha.
Allowing more than one dwelling on a lot could create similar issues to those that arise
from allowing dwellings on small lots. In the event that the dwelling is no longer required
for agricultural purposes its use will be for residential purposes and could result in an
excision. However, where second or subsequent dwellings will form part of and remain
part of the ownership of the agricultural activity, it is much more likely that the dwelling will
contribute to productivity and not result in conflict.
Conclusion:
Second or subsequent dwellings can be a necessary part of agricultural expansion or
farm transition. Future conflict is much less likely if dwelling remains as part of the
ownership of the agricultural activity.
Proposal:
Council policy will support second and subsequent dwellings on the same title as existing
farm dwellings and/or infrastructure. Approval for the dwelling would be conditional on
entering an agreement that would carry over with any change of ownership, that the
dwellings could not be subdivided or excised from the original title.
6.
Tourism to build on and diversify agricultural activity
Background:
There is considerable interest in, and development already occurring, in agriculture
related tourism activities. Consistent with the objective of ensuring that agriculture
remains the predominant use in the Farming zone, tourism developments must be based
on existing agriculture.
The first Draft Rural Land Strategy proposed applying the Rural Activity zone to areas of
the King Valley and Milawa-Oxley.
The Farming zone already enables a number of uses such as Bed and Breakfast; Group
Accommodation, Host Farm, Primary Produce Sales and Restaurant provided that these
uses are in conjunction with Agriculture, Outdoor recreation, winery etc. The Farming
zone also limits Bed and Breakfast accommodation to 6 people and Group
accommodation to no more than 6 dwellings. These limits are possibly too restrictive.
The Rural Activity Zone enables a small number of additional uses, such as Backpackers
Lodge, Hotel, Tavern and Convenience shop. While these uses are potential tourism
developments, most would be more appropriately located in villages. Further, the Rural
Activity zone does not allow for as-of-right dwellings. Therefore, every new dwelling
would need a permit which is inconsistent with other proposals in this Strategy of allowing
Page 17
dwellings on lots greater than 40ha. Further, feedback received from consultation was
that it may be counterproductive to encourage agriculture based tourism and, at the same
time, restrict dwellings because many of the likely tourism uses could be either in
conjunction with, or require the construction of additional dwellings.
Conclusion:
The additional uses and development options offered by the Rural Activity zone are more
than offset by the additional controls. The Farming zone, with relaxation of existing limits
is the preferred means of supporting ongoing agricultural activity as well as the emerging
agriculture based tourism developments.
Proposal:
Continue to apply the Farming zone to areas with tourism potential (except as further
specified below) but to seek approval from the Minister to relax the limits on Bed and
Breakfast and Group Accommodation.
7.
Grow the villages
Background:
The small towns and villages play important social and economic roles in the rural
districts. Expansion of villages will enhance these roles and also has the potential to
ease the pressure for residential development in agricultural areas. However, further
development of most of the villages is constrained by lack of infrastructure; particularly
water supply and waste water treatment as well as inappropriate zoning in some
instances. The consultation process also raised the issue of potential conflict on the
boundaries of villages and the interaction with neighbouring agricultural uses.
The following summary outlines the current planning and development activities in the
major villages:
Glenrowan, Milawa and Oxley are to be provided with reticulated sewer. This will
improve the development potential of each of these villages by enabling the provision of
smaller lots than is currently the case. Council has approved funding to prepare structure
plans for these 3 towns, to review the existing planning arrangements and to examine
development and zoning options to make best use of this infrastructure.
Boorhaman, Peechelba, Springhurst and Tarrawingee all appear to have adequate areas
of land zoned Township to accommodate future growth.
Rural residential development is facilitated in Peechelba, Springhurst and Tarrawingee by
the use of the Low Density Residential zone with a 1 hectare minimum lot size and there
may be some opportunity to encourage this development type in Boorhaman by varying
some of the Township zoning to facilitate this.
Page 18
Moyhu and Whitfield will require further investigation to allow growth including expansion
of land not currently zoned Township. Wastewater effluent management will dictate lot
sizes as much as village character and settlement pattern. The upgrading of water supply
to Whitfield will facilitate some additional growth.
Everton has a mixed zoning pattern with zoning changes required to recognise village
uses that are currently within the Farming zone. A recent subdivision will provide for its
immediate residential growth.
Eldorado has capacity within the Township zone for further residential development but
there are options available to provide additional rural residential opportunities at the
south-west entrance to town.
Cheshunt has some constraints with an area of Rural Living zoned land limited by the
Wildfire Management overlay. The appropriateness of this zone needs to be considered
having regard to the review of the bushfire provisions in the Scheme. There is
opportunity for further township growth within the current zoning. Some minor
adjustments to the boundaries of the zones should occur.
Whorouly has extensive areas zoned for Township and a small strip for Rural Residential
development. Flooding issues are significant and Council, in the future will work with the
community and North East Catchment Management Authority to address development
opportunities and constraints.
Other scattered rural settlements exist without a core zoning or township area such as
Myrrhee, Everton Upper, Greta West and Peechelba East. The need to look at these
areas and their zoning requirements will be directed by the Housing and Population
Strategy.
Conclusion:
Limitations on further residential development in several villages are being resolved.
While the expansion of residential development in these towns may offer an alternative to
residential development in agricultural areas, the future residential growth of all these
villages is more appropriately determined as part of the Housing and Population Strategy.
Proposal:
Zoning anomalies around the northern township boundary of Milawa, on the western
boundary of Oxley, and in Everton will be corrected as part of this Draft 2 Rural Land
Strategy. However, the expansion and finalisation of the boundaries of all villages will
form part of the Housing and Population Strategy that is currently being completed.
Mapping of boundary adjustments for Milawa (attachment 1), Oxley (attachment 2) and
Everton (attachment 3) accompany this draft.
Page 19
8.
Landscape protection of key areas
Background:
The Wangaratta 2030 Community Vision places a high value on protection of rural
landscapes.
“High value rural agricultural land and open rural landscapes have been protected from
development and fragmentation.”
As part of developing the first Draft Rural Land Strategy, a Landscape Assessment was
carried out to guide the protection and management of rural landscapes.
The Assessment identified several areas of high significance. Three of these were
recommended for additional planning control.
Warby Ranges
The existing Significant Landscape Overlay (SLO) boundary is considered to accurately
reflect the area of landscape significance.
The schedule to the SLO requires additional information about the significance of the
area, and control over vegetation removal.
King Valley
Given the significance of the King Valley and its sensitivity to unsympathetic
development, it is recommended that an SLO is applied to the King Valley, generally
along the 200m contour line, effectively forming an area of protection between the
adjoining areas of PCRZ.
A permit should be required for all buildings and works within the SLO area, as well as
fencing other than post and wire fencing, and removal of vegetation.
The SLO objectives should include:
• Retain the scenic quality of the area which is characterized by open
agricultural/horticultural land and long range views to the alps.
• Contain development at the edges of townships from intruding into adjoining
agricultural areas.
• Outside of townships, restrict development along the edges of roadways.
• Maintain existing character of townships.
• Avoid visual clutter and proliferation of signage.
• Retain significant vegetation that contributes to the landscape character of the area.
Decision guidelines should relate to the siting and design of buildings, structures and
fences and to the contribution of vegetation to the character of the area.
The King Valley Masterplan, that is nearing completion, is also likely to recommend
strengthening of protection of landscape features in the King Valley south of Moyhu.
Page 20
Glenrowan Gap
For the Glenrowan Gap, an additional Significant Landscape Overlay is recommended for
a 500 metre stretch of land east of the Highway from Glenrowan to Wangaratta. It is
important to retain this view corridor as a significant ‘gateway’ into Wangaratta.
The SLO objectives should include:
• Retain the scenic quality of area which is characterized by open
agricultural/horticultural land and long range views to the alps.
• Contain development or signage at the edges of Hume Freeway that might inhibit
these long range views.
Review Report 2012
A review has not been completed of the recommendations contained within the 2009
assessment report.
The outcomes of this review were:
King Valley
A new local policy to provide basis for consideration of the siting and design of buildings
within the King Valley.
In addition, a schedule to the Farming Zone be amended so that any building within 200
metres of the Wangaratta Whitfield Road of the King Valley Road requires a permit.
Glenrowan
The Significant Landscape Overlay be applied along the eastern side of the Hume
Freeway (500m in width) from the Laceby Glenrowan Road to the Glenrowan Myrtleford
Road.
Proposal:
1. A schedule to the Farming zone be amended so that any proposed building within 200
metres of the Wangaratta Whitfield Road and the King Valley Road requires a
planning permit. A new local policy be developed to provide for consideration of the
siting and design of buildings.
2. A Significant Landscape Overlay be applied a 500 metre stretch of land east of the
Hume Freeway from Laceby Glenrowan Road to Glenrowan Myrtleford Road.
3. That additional information about the significance of the area, and control over
vegetation removal, be added to the Schedule to the Significant Landscape Overlay
already applying to the Warby Ranges area.
Mapping of proposed King Valley schedule (attachment 4) and Glenrowan significant
Landscape Overlay (attachment 5) accompany this report.
Page 21
9.
Glenrowan Myrtleford Road – Oxley to Markwood
Background:
Tourism is an important element of the employment and economic base of the
municipality.
The Milawa Gourmet Region, bounded by Oxley and Markwood is an area where the
gourmet food and wine experience is well established and additional opportunities exist
for on-farming processing and marketing of local produce. This is acknowledged in
Wangaratta Tourism Industry Strategic Plan, 2010 – 2013.
The Landscape Assessment Study characterised this area as the Open Agricultural
Plains (Character Type 2.2). The study highlighted:
“Another popular route to the Alps, the Glenrowan- Myrtleford Road is also referred to as
‘Snow Road’. This route is becoming more attractive to tourists because it passes
through the Milawa Gourmet Region offering food and wine experiences. Conceived in
1994, it now boasts a proliferation of excellent wineries, restaurants and farm gate
enterprises”.
The landscape recommendations for this area include:
• to protecting rural views and vistas, including views to Mount Buffalo and the Warby
Ranges;
• to maintain the agricultural landscape views;
• to protect and enhance roadside and streamside vegetation; and
• to manage new buildings and structures having regard to the siting, spacing and
design of buildings and ensuring roads and driveways do not dominate the
landscape.
The Farming Zone, which currently applies to most rural land, restricts new tourism
development to small scale accommodation and a limited range of tourism uses. An
opportunity to provide for further tourism development in this locality can be facilitated via
the application of the Rural Activity Zone.
The townships of Oxley and Milawa are the hubs of the region but it is considered that
there is a strategic opportunity to foster further growth of accommodation, food and wine
product and associated leisure and recreation activities within the wider landscape.
Page 22
There is potential to capitalise on the significant tourist traffic using the road to access the
ski fields, build on the cycle tourism initiatives and continuing to facilitate the expansion of
the gourmet food and wine experience.
The first Draft Rural Land Strategy proposed applying the Rural Activity zone to an area
extending along the Glenrowan Myrtleford Road, from Oxley to Milawa, to the south to
Colemans Lane and to the north generally to the Tea Garden Creek and Oxley Flats road.
North East Catchment Management Authority expressed some concern at including large
areas that have flooding constraints in a zone fostering tourism and accommodation
growth. Having regard to this feedback and further assessing this issue it is proposed to
vary the area proposed.
Conclusion:
Strategic support exists to foster tourism associated growth to complement the townships
of Milawa and Oxley and to strengthen the Milawa Gourmet Region. The Rural Activity
zone provides a tool that provides for a wider range of uses, particularly tourism
accommodation without the need for them to be in conjunction with agriculture.
Proposal:
Apply the Rural Activity zone to a narrow strip extending north and south of the
Glenrowan Myrtleford Road from the Wangaratta Whitfield Road at Oxley to Carbour
Road at Markwood, generally bounded to the south by Colemans Lane and to the north
by Oxley Flats Road and partly by the Markwood-Tarrawingee Road.
The minimum lot size for subdivision should be retained at 40 hectares so that
predominant rural landscape is not further fragmented and separation between buildings,
tourism uses and existing farming uses can be maintained.
To have a local policy to support and encourage uses in association with food and wine
tourism including a range of accommodation and recreational opportunities and to ensure
adequate consideration to landscape and heritage characteristics, including the views
and vistas to and from Oxley and Milawa townships.
Mapping of the proposed Glenrowan, Myrtleford Road Rural Activity Zone (attachment 6)
accompanies this report.
10. West Wangaratta/Warby Ranges precinct
Background:
On the western boundary of the municipality an area bounded by the Warby Ranges from
Glenrowan to Chick Road, Wangandary in the north extending east to the Yarrawonga
Road, urban Wangaratta and the Hume Highway near Glenrowan, is an area under
Page 23
pressure from a range of possible uses. The area borders the Ovens Warby National
Park and the scenic vistas provided in the landscape. It also has significant ties with
Kelly history and heritage, pressure for rural living development, urban encroachment, the
need to provide for urban growth of Wangaratta and, in its upper reaches, is also
exposed to bushfire risk. Agriculture is still the predominant landuse. Agricultural pursuits
vary from grazing, horticulture and equine activities
The foothills of the Warby Ranges abutting the National Park already have planning
recognition via Wildfire Management Overlay and Significant Landscape Overlay.
Many of the submissions to the DRLS generated from this locality suggested that the
area was largely lost to agriculture and was more suited for rural residential purposes.
The Landscape Character Assessment recommends extension of the Significant
Landscape Overlay. The planning framework relating to bushfire management will also
pose additional measures in relation to the appropriateness of and siting of new buildings
in this landscape.
This area has a fragmented subdivision pattern and has seen a number of subdivisions in
the past 11 years utilising the 40 hectare minimum provision. With the locality playing a
key role in the urban expansion of Wangaratta, the subdivision provision of 40 hectares
keeps land in parcels that can be progressively rezoned to facilitate conventional
residential or a range of rural living opportunities.
The mixed nature of existing uses, the landscape characteristics and the varying
agricultural versatility in this locality lead to a need to assess whether retention of this
area in the Farming zone will deliver the most appropriate outcomes.
This locality over the next 30 years will be subject to substantial change and warrants the
use of the Rural Activity zone which eases the restriction on linking dwellings to
agriculture and provides flexibility to balance the competing pressures.
Conclusion:
The declining significance of agriculture, potential tourism and recreation development
around the Ovens Warby National Park, and the urban expansion of Wangaratta, means
that the Rural Activity zone is preferred to the Farming zone for this area.
Proposal:
To rezone the locality to Rural Activity zone, maintain the 40 hectare minimum lot size
and use local policy to guide the transition of this locality for urban growth, rural living
demand and agricultural uses, particularly encouraging equine related land use close to
the existing TAFE and Racecourse. As a result, applications for dwellings necessary for
the conduct of equine activities will be favorably considered in this area.
Issues surrounding rural residential uses in this precinct will be considered in detail in
Council’s Housing and Population Strategy where recommendations may contribute to
the policy for this area.
Page 24
Mapping of the proposed West Wangaratta / Warby Ranges Rural Activity Zone
(attachment 7) accompanies this report.
11. Rural Conservation Zone and Wildfire Management Overlay
The Draft Rural Land Strategy proposed rezoning significant areas of privately owned
land from Farming zone to Rural Conservation zone. However, feedback from the
consultation process established that many `of the areas identified for rezoning were
used for agricultural production and that the restrictions imposed by the Rural
Conservation zone would seriously impede these agricultural activities. Submissions
suggested that many of the areas proposed for rezoning were farmed sustainably and
that rezoning would not result in better management or better environmental outcomes.
As a result it is not proposed to continue with the expansion of the Rural Conservation
zone.
The consultation activities also raised a number of concerns about construction of
dwellings in bushfire prone areas. The Bushfire Royal Commission has made a number
of recommendations that are being implemented on a state wide basis.
As a result it is not proposed to make any amendments to Wildfire Management Overlay
as part of this strategy.
Conclusion:
There are no compelling reasons for Council to either expand the application of the Rural
Conservation zone or reconsider the use of the Wildfire management Overlay.
Proposal:
Not proceed with expansion of either Rural Conservation zone or Wildfire Management
Overlay.
12. Rating
Council has utilised a Differential rating approach for several years. This approach
applies different levels of rate to different classes of properties based on the Planning
Scheme zoning of those properties. As a result Farming zone properties are levied the
lowest rate, residential zoned properties a higher rate and commercial and industrial
properties an even higher rate.
In the event that there are changes made to zoning, particularly where areas are rezoned
from Farming zone to Rural Activity zone, all else being equal, rating levels would be
expected to increase.
Consideration needs to be given to the effect on rates of those properties where zoning
changes are made.
Page 25
Conclusion:
One of the aims of the Rural Land Use Strategy is to ensure that agriculture continues to
form a key element of the local economy. Rapidly increasing or excessive rates may
undermine agricultural viability.
Proposal:
Council review its rating strategy to ensure that landowners are not disadvantaged by
rate increases that occur because the zoning has changed but the agricultural land use
has not.
13. Decision making and Delegation
There are matters relating to Council decision making that could be improved to provide
better outcomes.
A number of submissions drew attention to the large number of approvals issued for
dwellings on small lots in the Rural/Farming zone, particularly in the period prior to 2009.
These approvals were issued despite a policy position that discouraged these
developments.
Submissions also questioned whether Council planners had the expertise, experience
and knowledge of rural matters to be able to make decisions on rural or agricultural
development proposals.
Council’s current decision making arrangements enable officers to determine applications
in situations where there are no objections and the application is to be approved.
Applications that either have attracted one or more submissions or where the application
is to be refused, must be decided by Council. The effect of this arrangement is that
Councillors can be unaware of applications that have been approved and so, don’t gain a
full picture of development occurring in these areas.
In regard to enabling access to knowledge and information for decision making, the
preferred approach is to ensure that planning staff have access to independent experts.
The Agriculture and Agribusiness Advisory Committee will not be involved in decision
making on particular applications as their role is to provide advice to Council on broader
agricultural matters.
Proposal:
That
• all applications relating to the Farming zone or Rural Activity zone be decided by the
Council; and
• Council continues the practice of seeking expert input into consideration of
applications as required.
Page 26
CONCLUSION
The proposals number 1 to 13 set out in this draft strategy are the outcomes of extended
process that has sought to balance:
• Councils 2030 Vision;
• requirements of Planning and Environmental Act;
• Changing agricultural practices;
• Feedback received from consultation and Agriculture and Agribusiness Advisory
Committee; and
• Research and opinion from experts in the field.
Page 27
BRIMIN
BRIMIN
ESMOND
ESMOND
NORONG
NORONG
BOORHAMAN
BOORHAMAN NORTH
NORTH
BUNDALONG
BUNDALONG SOUTH
SOUTH
LILLIPUT
LILLIPUT
CHILTERN
CHILTERN VALLEY
VALLEY
PEECHELBA
PEECHELBA
PEECHELBA
PEECHELBA EAST
EAST
BOORHAMAN
BOORHAMAN EAST
EAST
CHILTERN
CHILTERN
SPRINGHURST
SPRINGHURST
BOWEYA
BOWEYA NORTH
NORTH
MONDS
MONDS
LMONDS
Legend
BOORHAMAN
BOORHAMAN
BORALMA
BORALMA
KILLAWARRA
KILLAWARRA
BOWEYA
BOWEYA
DOCKERS
DOCKERS PLAINS
PLAINS
MOUNT
MOUNT BRUNO
BRUNO
BYAWATHA
BYAWATHA
BOWSER
BOWSER
WALDARA
WALDARA
NORTH WANGARATTA
WANGARATTA
NORTH
WANGANDARY
WANGANDARY
ELDORADO
ELDORADO
BEECHWORTH
BEECHWORTH
LONDRIGAN
LONDRIGAN
HOONA
HOONA
EAST
EAST WANGARATTA
WANGARATTA
WANGARATTA
WANGARATTA
EVERTON
EVERTON UPPER
UPPER
TARRAWINGEE
TARRAWINGEE
TAMINICK
TAMINICK
OXLEY
OXLEY FLATS
FLATS
WANGARATTA
WANGARATTA SOUTH
SOUTH
LACEBY
LACEBY
WINTON
WINTON NORTH
NORTH
STANLEY
STANLEY
EVERTON
EVERTON
OXLEY
OXLEY
MURMUNGEE
MURMUNGEE
MILAWA
MILAWA
GLENROWAN
GLENROWAN
BOWMANS
BOWMANS FOREST
FOREST
MARKWOOD
MARKWOOD
GAPSTED
GAPSTED
DOCKER
DOCKER
GLENROWAN WEST
WEST
GLENROWAN
WHOROULY
WHOROULY
BOBINAWARRAH
BOBINAWARRAH
GRETA
GRETA
GRETA WEST
WEST GRETA
Map 2
Land Sales by Locality
WHOROULY EAST
EAST
WHOROULY
MERRIANG
MERRIANG
LURG
LURG
MYRTLEFORD
MYRTLEFORD
UPPER LURG
LURG
UPPER
MOYHU
MOYHU
MEADOW CREEK
CREEK
MEADOW
Average area of land Sales
HANSONVILLE
HANSONVILLE
62 to 175 ha (15)
EDI
EDI
GRETA SOUTH
SOUTH
GRETA
Municipal Boundary
WHOROULY SOUTH
SOUTH
WHOROULY
MERRIANG SOUTH
SOUTH
MERRIANG
50 to 62 ha
(13)
41 to 50 ha
(10)
5 to 41 ha
(16)
CARBOOR
CARBOOR
BUFFALO RIVER
RIVER
BUFFALO
UPPER RYANS
RYANS CREEK
CREEK
UPPER
KING
KING VALLEY
VALLEY
Bar Chart of Sales By Locality
41
EDI
EDI UPPER
UPPER
MYRRHEE
MYRRHEE
WHITFIELD
WHITFIELD
TATONG
TATONG
No of sales
Sales<40ha
WHITLANDS
WHITLANDS
Map Produced by: GIS Coordinator
Date: 8 August 2011
CHESHUNT
CHESHUNT
DANDONGADALE
DANDONGADALE
ARCHERTON
ARCHERTON
ROSE
ROSE RIVER
RIVER
TOLMIE
TOLMIE
CHESHUNT
CHESHUNT SOUTH
SOUTH
This map contains Vicmap information
© The State of Victoria,
Department of Sustainability and Environment, 2011.
Reproduced by permission of the Department of
Sustainability and Environment.
Disclaimer:
This material may be of assistance to you but the
state of Victoria and its employees do not guarantee
that the publication is without flaw of any kind or is
wholly appropriate for your particular purposes and
therefore disclaims all liability for any error, loss or
consequences which may arise from your relying
on any information contained in this material.
Using or copying parts of this document is
prohibited without Councils written Authority.
Springhurst
Peechelba
Boorhaman
Eldorado
Wangaratta
Tarrawingee
Everton
Oxley
Milawa
Glenrowan
Whorouly
Moyhu
Map 4
Land Parcels with dwelling
Parcels in Farming Zone
with Residence
Parcels in Farming Zone
without Residence
Whitfield
Cheshunt
Crown Land
Municipal Boundary
Watercourse
Map Produced by: GIS Coordinator
Date: 8 August 2011
This map contains Vicmap information © The State of Victoria,
Department of Sustainability and Environment, 2011.
Reproduced by permission of the
Department of Sustainability and Environment.
Disclaimer:
This material may be of assistance to you but the state of
Victoria and its employees do not guarantee that the
publication is without flaw of any kind or is wholly
appropriate for your particular purposes and therefore
disclaims all liability for any error, loss or consequences
which may arise from your relying on any information
contained in this material.
Using or copying parts of this document is prohibited
without Councils written Authority.
Map 5
Dwellings constructed since 1999
in Farming Zone
Legend
Dwellings constructed since 1999
VM Transport Road class
Freeway
Highway
Arterial
Sub Arterial
Collector
Local
2WD
4WD
Proposed
Walking Track
Bicycle Track
Municipal Boundary
Crown Land
Map Produced by: Rural City of Wangaratta, GIS Coordinator
Date: 29 August 2011
This map contains Vicmap information © The State of Victoria,
Department of Sustainability and Environment, 2011.
Reproduced by permission of the
Department of Sustainability and Environment.
Disclaimer:
This material may be of assistance to you but the state of Victoria and
its employees do not guarantee that the publication is without flaw of
any kind or is wholly appropriate for your particular purposes and
therefore disclaims all liability for any error, loss or consequences
which may arise from your relying on any information contained in
this material.
Using or copying parts of this document is prohibited without
Councils written Authority.
Map 6
Subdivision since 1999
in Farming Zone
Legend
Subdivision since 1999
VM Transport Road class
Freeway
Highway
Arterial
Sub Arterial
Collector
Local
2WD
4WD
Proposed
Walking Track
Bicycle Track
Municipal Boundary
Crown Land
Map Produced by: Rural City of Wangaratta, GIS Coordinator
Date: 29 August 2011
This map contains Vicmap information © The State of Victoria,
Department of Sustainability and Environment, 2011.
Reproduced by permission of the
Department of Sustainability and Environment.
Disclaimer:
This material may be of assistance to you but the state of Victoria and
its employees do not guarantee that the publication is without flaw of
any kind or is wholly appropriate for your particular purposes and
therefore disclaims all liability for any error, loss or consequences
which may arise from your relying on any information contained in
this material.
Using or copying parts of this document is prohibited without
Councils written Authority.
Wangaratta Rural City Council – Ordinary Meeting
21 February 2011
ATTACHMENT
PLANNING PERMIT APPLICATION PLN11-059 –
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LOLLY
3550
NET FLOOR 11LE AREA:
(NOT MIMING MING IVIES)
STANDARD ti"
ADDITIONAL
(BY VARIATION)
3645
2425
BED 1
ENSUITE
-
FINAL PLANS
1550 I . 1 .2
950
2580
BATH
W.C.
r.8
• Total Area:
House:
17,
ELEVATION D
View:
SIMONDS HOMES MELBOURNE P/1. ACM 0,50
HEAD OFFICE
S P4 0 14 D S
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30
NM
18-32
0 0 Imo
Spill/LNG
HOMES 2010 SPEC.
GROUND FLOOR PLAN
3130.7 RDA 5308 00593680wc 335
Customer.
TELEPHONE 813) 9682 0700
GRATTON & GOULET—GRATTON
ENQUIRIES 1300 733 133
EMAIL anquiriesesimonds.59m.08
INTERNET 6866.59,orldS.con1.88
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63901131
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Address.
LOT 186A GRETA ROAD, WANGARATTA.
12_28 sqrs
12.26 SqrS
0.52 sqrs
2.741ssqrs
'Grow d Floor:
bt tal:
!oral.
Gara e:
TED 2/ STUDY
14590
OVERALL
0
11,
Facade:
Drawn:
M.J.W
Checked:
144.27 sq.m
15.53 qrs
JADE 1615
MOSSMAN
T7gt5—ACC
Fheet No:
2.1
ELEVATION B
NOTE:
15690
OVERALL
8600
PROVIDE INSULATION TO:
EXTERNAL DWELLING WALLS,
WALL BETWEEN GARAGE AND HOUSE
AND CEILING DIRECTLY UNDER ROOF SPACE
EXCLUDES INSULATION TO GARAGE COMIC SPACE.
GARAGE EXTERNAL WALLS
AND GROUND FLOOR CEIUNG UNDER
1ST FLOOR OF DOUBLE STOREY HOMES.
7090
PROVIDE CEILING BATTENS
THROUGHOUT DWELLING
2850
3520
2640
GARAGE
z
0
O
S
o
°n
0 .5
2, 5
B
nx
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BEAM OVER TO
ENG'S DESIGN.
0
dp
1550
2560
I b56
6101
11
SECTION
Pwrr
DENOTES OVERFLOW
PROVISIONS TO GUTTERING.
3530
(NOT iNO_LIOING SKIRTING TILES)
STANDARD AREA:
ADDITIONAL AREA:
(BY VARIATION)
900
9.70 m2
XX.XX m2
2190
PORCH
MEALS
FLOOR TILE ARM
V2
R/A
4290
6240
100 k5,
FAMILY
IEP
6720
1630 t
TRADITIONAL FACADE
3610
ELEVATION D
— REF, FRE, Mt CO OW INDICATES POSTTION ONLY
2
MH — MANHOLE
0 —
SMOKE DETECTOR TO AS. 3766
2006 ALTIMA SPECIFICATION
Simonds Homes
Melbourne Pty.Ltd.
2'. FLOOR, 28-32 ALBERT ROAD,
SOUTH MELBOURNE VIC 3205
Tel. 9682 0700 Fax 9682 0800
ACTT 050 L97 510
OEMENSIONS,I,TEMEAricANTA.
—
..69,aanamina125mm SPACING
MS
To SIRUCTURAL TIMBERS AND FACE OF BRICKS
OCCLUDING BATTENS, PUOIERBOARD, ETC.
ANSION
— ALL wolooyis TO REF AT 2110rAnti.)LA LAILFAS
NOMINATED °THERMS F ORCKwOOK
ADJUST HEAD
I
HERM-IT TO WITHIN D — 0 ,D D OF uNTeL
ENGINEERS Mums FOR STRUCTURAL MITAIRESS
COPYRIGHT 2002 — SIMONDS CORPORATION PTY. LID.
NOT TO 30 REPRODUCED IN PART OR WHOLE WITHOUT
— REFER TO ALL
C)
EXPRESS PERMISSION.
VIEW
5
Gr. cf Fl.
1013.71m2 11.70Sqs
1st Fl.
Total
108.71m2 11.70Sqs
-0C Porch
Garage
Total Area
House
3.40m2 0.37Sqs
24.32m2 2.62Sqs
135.43m2 14.695as
BROADWATER 1600 V2
GROUND FLOOR
Scale
CUSTOMER
GRATTON & GOULLET—GRATTON
1:100
Date
A3
21/07/11
Drawn
M.J.W 1:17586—CON
ADDRESS
LOT 1868 GRETA ROAD, WANGARATTA.
Checked
Sheet No.
2
ALL GLASS TO CONFORM WITH AS1288-2006 : GLASS IN BUILDINGS
SEE GUTTER OVER BRICKWORK
DETAIL No. 2-0120
.......
,
:111
LJ
SEE GUTTER OVER BRICKWORK
DETAIL No. 2-0120
_ C.L
1
..2
Li
SELECTED
FACE BRICKWORK
15-2
051418
ELEVATION C
ELEVATION A
PROVIDE CAVITY FLASHING AND
WEEPHOLES AT 1000 MAX. CRS.
ROOF VENTILATOR
CONTROL JOINTS TO
ENGINEERS RECOMMENDATIONS
ROOF SHEETING
0 22.5 ROOF PITCH
(HILLY SARKED)
COLLIRBOND
600x600
SKYLIGHT o J
01 J
r.- -.¢
cu
w
0
>4
o
a
EL
..c
SELECTED
FACE BRICKWORK
DS1218SP
<
El
1.I
-
051006
051412
ou
N.—„_
DS1418
0
SLIDING ALUMINIUM
WINDOWS
ELEVATION B
HOT WATER SERVICE LOW PROFILE
1/211WIrn SOLAR COLLECTOR PANES
ROOF LOCATION 'S IMMOATINE ONLY
LOCATION B DEPENDED' ON RHO. OTT ORIENTATION
A TO MANUFACTURER'S RECOMMENDATION.
LJ
DSD2 18-2
.
r-r—
cs.1
L
I
I
a
0
SOLAR
.4.74
TArIK
NOTE: WINDOWS TO BE SET AT 2100mm
EVA HEAD ABOVE FLOOR UNLESS NOTED ON DRAWING.
Simonds Homes
Melbourne Pty.Ltd.
FLOOR, 28-32 ALBERT ROAD,
SOUTH MELBOURNE VIC 3205
Tel. 9682 0700
Fax 9682 0800
ACE
CUB 1ST MOO
I
:11:1
70x19mm T.P. STRAPPING
ON E.C. SHEET INFILL
OVER GARAGE DOOR OPENING
(REFER TO DETAIL)
,
'2400Wx2 00H
LORBOND PAN
UGARAGE 0 R
(REMOTE CONTROL
A
9/010‘SirS?1'
M-
kr
-..—
SLIDING ALUMINIUM
DOOR
ELEVATION D
2!
EVAPORATIVE AIRCONDITIONING
UNIT POSITION AS PER
GAS'N'COOL'S RECOMMENDATION!.
g
g I
V2
2006 ALTIMA SPECIFICATION
WRITTEN DIMENSIONS TAKE PRECEDENCE OVER SCALE
ALL GLASS TO CONFORM WITH SCA VOL 2 PART 3.6.
- DIMENSIONS TO STRUCTURAL TIMBERS AND FACE OF BRICKS
EXCLUDING BATTENS. PLASTERBOARD, ETC.
PROVIDE SUBFLOOR VENTILATION TO TIMBER FLOORS TO
ACHIEVE 73001112/METRE RUN OF WALL
NOTES:
°BRICK CONTROL JOINTS TO CONFORM WM-I CRS FROM -114E
CEMENT & CONCRETE ASSOCATION
0
COPYRIGHT 2003 - SIMONDS CORPORATION PM LTD.
NOT TO BE REPRODUCED IN PART OR WHOLE WITHOUT
EXPRESS PERMISSION.
VIEW
TRADITIONAL FACADE
House
ELEVATIONS
CUSTOMER
GRATTON & GOULLET—GRAITON
BROADWATER 1600 V2
Scale
1100 1:1) A3
Drawn
Date
21/07/11
Dr .No.
M.J.W 27586—CON
ADDRESS
LOT 186B GRETA ROAD, WANGARATtA.
Checked
Sheet No.
3
Clause 55 Assessment – 97 Greta Road, Wangaratta
Std No.
B1
Description
Neighbourhood
character
The design response
must be appropriate to
the neighbourhood and
the site.
The proposed design
must respect the
existing or preferred
neighbourhood
character and respond
to the features of the
site.
B2
Residential policy
Written statement of
State policy and local
planning policy
framework
Assessment Comments
The location of the proposed
development is in an established
residential area.
Complies?
Partial
Compliance
The dwelling is slightly set forward of
the adjoining properties. The dwellings
are to be single storey and of a scale
and design which is reflective of the
neighbourhood character.
A large portion of the front building
setback has been sealed with
concrete, to provide the ability to park
vehicles, this section of the
development does not respond to the
established neighbourhood character.
A written report was prepared with the
application.
Compliance
SPPF – 16.02 –
Medium Density
Housing
MSS – 21.06 – Urban
Development
B3
B4
B5
B6
B7
LPPF – Not relevant
Dwelling diversity
Range of dwelling
sizes and types for
developments of 10 or
more dwellings
Infrastructure
Able to be connected
to reticulated services.
Capacity of the existing
infrastructure.
Integration with the
street
Development oriented
to the street frontage.
Street setback
Minimum Setback
from front street (m).
Building Height
N/A
N/A
There is existing infrastructure
available and the dwellings can be
connected to reticulated services.
Complies
Dwelling 1 is existing within the
streetscape. A recent addition of the
concrete pad has been constructed
within the front building setback, which
is not consistent with the existing
character of the street, which generally
contains open style landscaped front
yards.
N/A - existing dwelling.
Complies
The development is only one storey
Complies
N/A
Std No.
Description
9 metres maximum
B8
Site Coverage
60% maximum
coverage
Permeability
Pervious surfaces 20%
min
Energy Efficiency
Orientation
B9
B10
Living areas located on
the north side of
development.
B11
B12
Maximise north facing
windows
Open Space
If any public or
communal open space
is provided on site it
should: be fronted by
dwellings, provide
outlook for dwellings,
be designed to protect
any natural features,
be accessible and
useable.
Safety
Entrances to dwellings
should not be
obscured or isolated
from the street and
internal access ways.
Planning which creates
unsafe spaces along
streets and access
ways should be
avoided.
Developments should
be designed to provide
good lighting, visibility
and surveillance of car
parking and internal
access ways.
Private spaces within
developments should
be protected from
inappropriate use as
public thoroughfares.
Assessment Comments
thus has a maximum height of less
than 9m.
The proposal has a site coverage of
48%.
Complies?
The proposal has 28% permeability
across the site.
Complies
Dwelling 1, main living room of the
dwelling are south facing and adjoin a
southern area of open space. Energy
efficiency low (existing)
Compliance
for Dwelling
2
Complies
Dwelling 2 main living areas are on the
northern side of the dwelling.
Non
Compliance
for Dwelling
1 (existing)
Not Applicable
N/A
Both dwelling entrances are clearly
defined with non-obscure planting
proposed.
Complies
Std No.
B13
Description
Landscaping
Protect any
predominate
landscape character of
the neighbourhood.
To provide appropriate
landscaping
To encourage the
retention of mature
vegetation on the site.
B14
Access
Allow convenient, safe
and efficient vehicle
movements and
connections within the
development and the
street network
Assessment Comments
Significant street tree within the nature
strip is to be retained, use of existing
crossover will not impact on this tree.
Complies?
Refer to
discussion
within report
No significant landscaping exist on site
for retention.
No opportunity is provided for the
establishment of landscaping along the
common driveway areas.
Limited areas available for
establishment of canopy trees for
dwelling 1.
Landscape plan has not been
submitted with the application. A
requirement could be included as a
condition of any approval to require the
submission of a landscape plan.
The existing vehicular crossover is to
used.
Greta Road is an RDZ1,
therefore all vehicles must exit in a
forwards direction.
Refer to
discussion
within
report.
Concern is held over the workability of
the proposal.
Forward direction exit
Be at least 3 metres
wide
B15
B16
Have an internal radius
of at least 4 metres at
changes of direction
Parking location
Reasonably close and
convenient to dwellings
and residential
buildings
Be secure
Allow safe and efficient
movements within the
development
Parking provision
At least one
undercover car parking
space and Two spaces
for each three or more
bedroom dwelling with
one space under cover
Refer to comments above
Refer to
discussion
within
report.
The proposal has
Non
Compliance
The proposal has one car parking for
each of the 2 bedroom dwelling
meeting the standard.
Std No.
B17
B18
B19
B20
B21
B22
Description
Side and rear yard
setbacks
Side or rear setbacks 1 m plus 0.3m for
every metre of height
over 3.6 m up to 6.9m,
plus 1m for every
metre over 6.9m
Walls on boundary
A new wall constructed
on or within 150mm of
a side or rear boundary
of a lot or carport
constructed on or
within 1m of a side or
rear boundary should
not abut a boundary for
a length of no more
than – 10m plus 25%
of the remaining length
of the boundary of an
adjoining lot
Daylight to existing
windows
Impact on existing
dwellings
North facing
windows
North facing habitable
rooms
Overshadowing Open
Space
The impact of the
proposal on the
amenity of existing
dwellings and their
private open space
areas
Overlooking
Habitable room
windows balcony,
terrace, deck or patio
should be located and
designed to avoid
direct views into a
secluded private open
space of an existing
dwelling. Views should
be measured from a
height of 1.7metres
above floor level with a
horizontal distance of
9m and a 45-degree
Assessment Comments
Dwelling setbacks vary between 0 and
4.3 metres.
Complies?
Complies
Approx. 9.5 metres of wall is to be
located on the southern property
boundary. This wall is associated with
the garage areas of both dwellings
Complies
There is no impact on the existing
windows due to sufficient setbacks of
the proposal.
Complies
Adj property to south/west has
habitable room windows within 3
metres of boundary, under pergola..
Complies
No shadow drawings submitted with
application.
Complies
The dwellings are single storey and
boundary fences are provided to the
site. The proposal is considered to
comply with this standard.
Complies
Std No.
B23
B24
B25
B26
B27
Description
angle for the setback.
Internal views
Windows and
balconies should be
designed to prevent
overlooking of more
than 50% of the
secluded private open
space of a lower-level
dwelling or residential
building directly below
of within the same
development.
Noise impacts
Noise sources, such as
mechanical plant,
should not be located
near bedrooms of
immediately adjacent
existing dwellings.
Noise sensitive rooms
and secluded private
open spaces of new
dwellings and
residential buildings
should take into
account noise sources
on immediately
adjacent properties
Accessibility
The dwelling entries of
the ground floor of
dwellings and
residential buildings
should be made
accessible to people
with limited mobility.
Dwelling entry
Entries to dwellings
and residential
buildings should:
Be visible and easily
identifiable from streets
and other public areas.
Provide shelter, a
sense of personal
address and
transitional space
around the entry.
Daylight to new
windows
A window in a
Assessment Comments
Complies?
N/A
The proposal does not include
mechanical plants near proposed
bedrooms nor is there a plant on
existing properties that will result in
noise impacts to proposed bedrooms.
Compliance,
subject to
conditions
Condition of permit in relation to
location of air / con units can be
applied.
The entry point to the dwellings is at
ground level, providing easy and
efficient pedestrian accessibility to the
dwellings.
Complies
The dwelling entrances are visible and
well defined. An overhanging pitched
roof protects the area.
Complies
Habitable room windows are well
located to receive adequate daylight.
Complies
Std No.
B28
B29
B30
B31
Description
habitable room should
be located to face:
- An outdoor space
clear to the sky or a
light court with a
minimum area of 3
square metres and
minimum dimension of
1 metre clear to the
sky, not including land
on an abutting lot
Private open space
An area of 40 square
metres, with one part
of the private open
space to consist of
secluded private open
space at the side or
rear of the dwelling or
residential building with
a minimum area of 25
square metres, a
minimum dimension of
3 metres and
convenient access
from a living room.
Solar access to open
space
The private open
space should be
located on the north
side of the dwelling or
residential building, if
appropriate.
The southern boundary
of secluded open
space should be
setback from any wall
on the north side of the
space at least (2+0.9h
metres, where ‘h’ is the
height of the wall.
Storage
Each dwelling should
have convenient
access to at least 6
cubic metres of
externally accessible,
secure storage space.
Design Detail
To encourage design
detail that respects the
Assessment Comments
Complies?
Private open space of Dwelling 1
meets the minimum numerical
requirements, however concern is held
over providing adequate area of open
space for the recreational
requirements of the future occupiers.
Complies,
however
concerns
are raised.
Dwelling 2’s open space has good
northern orientation and is considered
sufficient in space for the recreational
requirements of the occupiers.
Dwelling 1
Dwelling 1 marginally meets the
requirements of this standard, given
the orientation of the site. Concern is
still held over the usability of this area
and the amenity value that it will
provide to future occupants.
Compliance
Dwelling 2
Private open space is located on the
northern side of the dwelling is setback
between 4.3 and 5.8 metres from.
No storage areas have been
nominated on the plans.
Non
Compliance.
The design of the proposed dwelling
respond to the existing character of the
area.
Complies
Std No.
B32
B33
B34
Description
existing or preferred
neighbourhood
character.
Maximum front fence
height
Should not exceed 1.5
metres in height when
adjoining a road that is
not located in a road
zone.
Common property
Clearly delineate
public, communal and
private areas.
Common property
should be functional
and capable of efficient
management.
Site services
Ensure site services
can be installed,
maintained and look
attractive.
Assessment Comments
Complies?
1.8 metre high colorbond fence is
provided for dwelling 1 (existing)
setback further than 3 metres from the
front property boundary.
Complies
Common Property include the
proposed driveway and vehicle turning
area.
Complies
Concern is held over the functionality
as a car parking area, however it is
clearly delineated
No designated facilities on the plans or
within the application.
Compliance
imposed by
condition of
permit.
Wangaratta Rural City Council – Ordinary Meeting
21 February 2012
ATTACHMENT
PLANNING SCHEME AMEMDMENT C 36 – OVENS
RIVERSIDE, FAITHFULL STREET, WANGARATTA
Refer Item 11.2.2.3
WANGARATTA PLANNING SCHEME
AMENDMENT C36
RIVERSIDE PROMENADE PUBLIC
ACQUISITION OVERLAY
PANEL REPORT
13 FEBRUARY 2012
WANGARATTA PLANNING SCHEME
AMENDMENT C36
RIVERSIDE PROMENADE PUBLIC
ACQUISITION OVERLAY
Nick Wimbush 13 FEBRUARY 2012
Contents
1. 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 BACKGROUND ....................................................................................................... 1 The Amendment ........................................................................................................ 1 What is proposed? ..................................................................................................... 3 The Panel .................................................................................................................... 3 Issues dealt with in this report ................................................................................ 4 1.4.1 The rezoning proposal ..................................................................................... 4 1.4.2 The Public Acquisition Overlay ...................................................................... 5 2. KEY ISSUES AND SUBMISSIONS ..................................................................... 6 2.1 Strategic justification of the Amendment .............................................................. 6 2.1.1 Issues and submissions .................................................................................... 6 2.1.2 Panel discussion .............................................................................................. 7 2.1.3 Conclusion....................................................................................................... 8 2.2 Issues raised in submissions .................................................................................... 8 2.2.1 Loss of car parking .......................................................................................... 8 2.2.2 40 Faithfull Street .......................................................................................... 10 2.2.3 Other issues – 42 Faithfull Street .................................................................. 11 2.2.4 Other issues – 60, 62 and 64 Faithfull Street ................................................ 12 2.3 Panel recommendation ........................................................................................... 12
Appendices
APPENDIX A COUNCIL RESPONSE TO SPPF AND LPPF ............................. 13 List of Figures
Figure 1: Application of the PAO ................................................................................... 1 Figure 2: Rezoning to PPRZ ............................................................................................ 2 List of Tables
Table 1:
Table 2:
Table 3:
Land to be covered by the PAO ..................................................................... 2 List of submitters.............................................................................................. 4 Impact on onsite car parking .......................................................................... 8 WANGARATTA PLANNING SCHEME AMENDMENT C36
PANEL REPORT: 13 FEBRUARY 2012
Page 1
1.
Background
1.1
The Amendment
Amendment C36 to the Wangaratta Planning Scheme applies to land on the south bank of the Ovens River between Ovens Street and Wangaratta Road (Parfitt Road). The amendment proposes to: 
Apply the Public Acquisition Overlay (PAO) to a portion of the land at the rear of the properties fronting Faithfull Street, adjacent to the Ovens River; 
Remove the existing PAO from the land at 50 to 58 Faithfull Street; and 
Rezone the land at 50 to 54 Faithfull Street from Business 1 Zone (B1Z) to Public Park and Recreation Zone (PPRZ). The proposed application of the PAO and rezoning are shown in Figure 1 and 2 respectively. The amount of land to be acquired from each property is shown in Table 1. The Rural City of Wangaratta (‘Council’) is the planning authority and proponent for the Amendment. Figure 1: Application of the PAO WANGARATTA PLANNING SCHEME AMENDMENT C36
PANEL REPORT: 13 FEBRUARY 2012
Page 2
Figure 2: Rezoning to PPRZ Table 1: Land to be covered by the PAO Address 34‐38 Faithfull Street 40 Faithfull Street 42 Faithfull Street 44 Faithfull Street 48 Faithfull Street 54‐58Faithfull Street Lot Size
666 square metres 192 square metres 528 square metres 434 square metres 477 square metres 60‐62 Faithfull Street 749 square metres 64 Faithfull Street 792 square metres 66‐68Faithfull Street 1459 square metres Overlay Area 103 square metres 27 square metres 73 square metres 62 square metres 66 square metres * 100 square metres from top of bank south 142 square metres * 51 square metres on top of bank 304 square metres * 71 square metres on top of bank 523 square metres * 96 square metres on top of bank *the measurement from the top of the bank south to Faithfull Street. WANGARATTA PLANNING SCHEME AMENDMENT C36
PANEL REPORT: 13 FEBRUARY 2012
Page 3
1.2
What is proposed?
Wangaratta is a vibrant regional centre of nearly 17,000 people in north eastern Victoria, approximately 250 kilometres from Melbourne. It is located near the foothills of the Great Dividing Range on the Hume Highway and the Melbourne to Sydney rail line passes through town. The Wangaratta city centre provides a range of retail, office, civic, entertainment and residential uses. The Ovens River is an attractive but underused natural asset that forms the north eastern boundary of the city centre. A cycling and walking path has been developed along the lower level river terrace on the south side of the river. The Amendment will facilitate the acquisition of land to allow construction of an upper level four to five metre wide promenade at the rear of the properties that run between Faithfull Street and the river. In the long term it is hoped to establish a cafe culture along the riverbank with properties along Faithfull Street having a dual frontage to the street and river. As part of the project, the riverbank will be stabilised and rehabilitated. Council has already acquired 50‐54 Faithfull Street and is transforming it into the Town Square which runs through to the top of the river bank where the promenade will be built. 1.3
The Panel
Mr Nick Wimbush was appointed under delegation on the 23 December 2010 under section 153 of the Planning and Environment Act 1987 to hear and consider submissions on the Amendment. Due to Council resourcing issues the Amendment did not come forward for Hearing until late in 2011. Hearing and inspection A Directions Hearing was held on 19 December 2011 at the Wangaratta Government Centre in Wangaratta. On the day of the Directions Hearing the Panel inspected the Amendment site and surrounding areas on an unaccompanied basis. Procedural issues A Hearing was scheduled for 16 January 2012. The Panel received only one Request to be Heard; from Ms Lyn Roberts. After further consultation WANGARATTA PLANNING SCHEME AMENDMENT C36
PANEL REPORT: 13 FEBRUARY 2012
Page 4
between Council and Ms Roberts after the Directions Hearing, she advised that she wished her submission to stand but no longer wished to attend the hearing. Consequently the Panel determined that a Hearing was not necessary and this report has been completed on the papers. The Panel had requested a response to submissions and this was received from Council on 16 January 2012. Submissions The Amendment was exhibited from 18 June 2010 to 19 July 2010. Council referred eight submissions to the Panel. Of these, four were from Government agencies offering no objection and four were objections from owners or lessees of the properties on Faithfull Street. The Panel has considered all written submissions and all material presented to it in connection with this matter. A list of all written submissions to the Amendment is included in Table 2. Table 2: List of submitters Submitter
Organisation (if any)
Mr Paul Green
CVGT
Mr Domenic LoBianco
Representing Mrs Giovanna De Grazia
Mr Carmine De Grazia
Ms Lyn Roberts
Mr Chris Dack
VicRoads
Mr Neil Repacholi
Goulburn-Murray Water
Mr Andrew Morphett
Dept. Sustainability and Environment
Mr Peter Sacco
North East Catchment Management
Authority
1.4
Issues dealt with in this report
1.4.1
The rezoning proposal
The Panel notes the proposed rezoning of 50‐54 Faithfull Street from Business 1 to Public Park and Recreation. No submissions addressed this particular issue. As a building has been removed and a park developed, the Panel considers that this component of the Amendment simply changes the zoning to accord with the use of the land WANGARATTA PLANNING SCHEME AMENDMENT C36
PANEL REPORT: 13 FEBRUARY 2012
Page 5
As such the Panel supports this component of the Amendment and makes no further comment on it. 1.4.2
The Public Acquisition Overlay
A number of submissions raised issues with the PAO. This Report deals with the issues under the following headings: 
Strategic justification; 
Loss of car parking; and 
Issues raised in individual submissions. WANGARATTA PLANNING SCHEME AMENDMENT C36
PANEL REPORT: 13 FEBRUARY 2012
Page 6
2.
Key issues and submissions
2.1
Strategic justification of the Amendment
2.1.1
Issues and submissions
The Public Acquisition Overlay (PAO) is a powerful planning tool that can lead to the compulsorily acquisition of an individual’s interest in all or part of their land. Its use must be clearly justified in terms of community need and be consistent with the objectives of planning in Victoria as set out in Section 4 of the Planning and Environment Act 1987. None of the individual submissions sought to argue against the strategic justification for the Amendment, but rather focused on particular matters related to car parking and the impact on businesses. These are discussed later in this report. Council as planning authority and proponent for the Amendment argued through the explanatory report and their written submission that the strategic planning process leading to the Amendment has been comprehensive and thorough and that the promenade when developed will be a valuable community asset. They provided a comprehensive assessment against State and local planning policy (provided in Appendix A). In addition they identified the following strategic plans and projects as supporting the development of the Amendment and promenade. Ovens River/Faithfull Street Masterplan 2001 The Masterplan was guided by social and economic research and recommended 11 projects on the northern and southern side of the river to improve pedestrian linkages, reorient the city centre to the river and provide a number of development opportunities. The promenade is clearly shown on the Masterplan on page 26 of the document. The Wangaratta Planning Scheme was amended via Amendment C9 to incorporate these recommendations. WANGARATTA PLANNING SCHEME AMENDMENT C36
PANEL REPORT: 13 FEBRUARY 2012
Page 7
Wangaratta Urban Design Framework 2002 The Urban Design Framework (UDF) identified the Ovens River as a feature and within the recommendations for Precinct 5 continued the theme of the re‐orienting this part of the city centre to the river and Apex Park. Coffey Report – Ovens River Bank Stability and Options Assessment Coffey Geosciences assessed the stability of the southern river bank and recommended building setbacks and design parameters for bank stability for works on the top of the bank. Wangaratta Retail Audit and Development Plan Review/Ovens Riverside Precinct Study 2008 The study prepared a planning and development framework for the city centre. It provided a detailed assessment and recommendations for the Ovens Riverside Precinct including the need to visually link from the city through the Town Square to the foreshore promenade. The study provides an evocative description of how the new promenade should function when developed. Central Activities Area – Car Parking Strategy A feasibility study by Council identified that 300 additional car spaces will be needed in the city centre by 2030. The Wangaratta Parking Strategy outlines the approach to meeting this demand both within the central city area and on the fringes. 2.1.2
Panel discussion
The Panel considers that the strategic planning for the precinct has occurred in a consistent fashion over a considerable period of time. All of the strategic planning emphasises the need to establish a better relationship between the city centre, the river and Apex Park to provide a valuable and attractive experience in Wangaratta that is different to those currently offered. The Panel has reviewed in detail the assessment of the Amendment by Council against relevant State and local policy and is satisfied that the Amendment is needed to achieve the broader community objectives of the precinct along the river. The achievement of the broader community objectives must be balanced against the loss of property by individuals. In this case the Panel is satisfied the net community benefit of the Amendment and promenade project for the broader Wangaratta community WANGARATTA PLANNING SCHEME AMENDMENT C36
PANEL REPORT: 13 FEBRUARY 2012
Page 8
is such that, coupled with the compensation mechanisms in the Land Acquisition and Compensation Act 1986, the Amendment should proceed. It is also worth noting, although it is not determinative of the Panel’s conclusions, that the promenade and precinct development could be expected to have a positive effect on property values for the remaining property. 2.1.3
Conclusion
The Panel considers that Council has undertaken significant background strategic planning work for the promenade and Amendment and is satisfied that the Amendment will lead to the provision of an important new community facility for Wangaratta. 2.2
Issues raised in submissions
2.2.1
Loss of car parking
Issue and submissions The potential loss of car parking at the rear of Faithfull Street properties was an issue of concern to most of the submitters. A summary of potential loss of parking on submitter’s properties and Council’s response is shown in Table 3. Table 3: Impact on onsite car parking Property
Spaces lost and impact
Council response
42 Faithfull Street
Between 6 and 8 car parks
(submissions from tenant and currently on the property.
owner)
Their loss will impact on the
business and clients
(jobseekers).
Car parking spaces could be
reduced from 5 to 2.
Alternative places to be
developed in Apex Park;
approximately 150m away via
the promenade and
pedestrian bridge.
60, 62 and 64 Faithfull Street
Property currently
accommodates 7 car spaces
and with some redesign this
should be able to be
maintained. Side access way
can be formalised through a
covenant or other
mechanism.
Concerned that access could
be lost and parking restricted
at rear of property.
WANGARATTA PLANNING SCHEME AMENDMENT C36
PANEL REPORT: 13 FEBRUARY 2012
Page 9
Panel discussion The Panel is satisfied that the parking at 60, 62 and 64 Faithfull Street can be generally maintained as is with some modifications. The impact on 42 Faithfull Street is the most problematic. The tenants argue that the loss of land for car spaces will have significant impact on their business and the owner submits that it may affect current and future tenants and therefore the value of the property and lease. The tenants requested that Council carry out a business impact study prior to Council proceeding with the proposal. To the Panel’s knowledge such a study has not been undertaken. That there will be some impact on rental return is not disputed by Council. Their response is to suggest that alternative parking perhaps 150m away in Apex Park will provide other options and thus reduce the impact of the loss of onsite spaces. The tenants provided a list of other all day parking and suggested that the closer car parks (300‐600m from the office) are full early in the day and thus would not suit the frequent car movements during the day required in their business. They suggest that Bickerton Street parking is in the order of 800m away and thus ‘quite a hike’ to get there. The Panel’s own approximation of distance from the rear of 42 Faithfull Street along the proposed promenade and across the pedestrian bridge to the corner of Bickerton and Clements Street (for example) is in the order of 400m, so new parking on Bickerton Street should be considerably closer. The other element is the essential nature of the PAO along the rear of the properties on Faithfull Street to achieve Council’s objective for the promenade. A possible solution not involving the acquisition of the land has not been put forward by any submitter. To the Panel this means that the acquisition of 73m2 of 42 Faithfull Street is essential to the development of the promenade. The Panel has already concluded that the promenade is strategically justified in an earlier section of this report. Thus on balance, it considers that the broader net community benefit of the promenade and other future developments in this area outweigh the specific parking concerns of the submitters with an interest in 42 Faithfull Street. It is satisfied that whilst there is likely to be some, unquantified, impact on the operation and leasing of 42 Faithfull Street, given the amount of land to be acquired; the compensation provisions of the Land Acquisition and WANGARATTA PLANNING SCHEME AMENDMENT C36
PANEL REPORT: 13 FEBRUARY 2012
Page 10
Compensation Act 1986; and the provision of alternative parking in the vicinity, the balance should be weighted in favour of the PAO and promenade. In passing, the Panel notes that it would be in Council’s interest to proactively work with the property owners in this area to alleviate some of their concerns relating to parking (and other issues), and ensure that the effects of the PAO are mitigated as much as possible. This could be by early development of additional parking in the area (this will also be needed to service the increasing commercial and recreational activity in the area) or some form of permit system. Conclusion The Panel concludes that whilst there will be an impact on the onsite parking at 42 Faithfull Street, the overall benefit to the community of the promenade project is such that in this case the PAO should be applied. 2.2.2
40 Faithfull Street
Issues and submissions The submission by the owner of 40 Faithfull Street raised a number of issues including: 
Impact on a beer garden at the rear of the restaurant on site; and 
Impact on commercial arrangements for current and future tenants. Council responded by noting that the area proposed for the PAO is critical for the Amendment; that the beer garden is currently not being used; and that the promenade may increase the desirability of outdoor dining fronting the river. Panel discussion The Panel considers and has concluded on some of the general arguments about the need for acquisitions along the length of the promenade in Section 2.2.1. These arguments are equally valid here, in that a ‘break’ cannot be left in the promenade by not applying the PAO to individual properties. The Panel considers that whilst there will be some impact on the individual property, the potential for ‘opening up’ this area of the river bank for increased dining and recreational opportunities in the medium to longer term should benefit the community more broadly and property owners in this area. WANGARATTA PLANNING SCHEME AMENDMENT C36
PANEL REPORT: 13 FEBRUARY 2012
Page 11
Conclusion The Panel concludes that the application of the PAO to this property is appropriate. 2.2.3
Other issues – 42 Faithfull Street
Issues and submissions The owner of 42 Faithfull Street raised a number of other issues including: 
The promenade will create a hidden public space that will encourage graffiti; 
The Council planned and approved a public walkway on the river embankment (public land) which is supported; and 
It will affect future development of the site and rights of trade. In response Council submitted to the points respectively: 
The opening up of the promenade will create a more active area with better lighting and that graffiti is not currently a problem in Wangaratta; 
The promenade is being planned as investigations have shown that the embankment is not suitable for the construction of the promenade and thus acquisition and construction on top of the bank is necessary to achieve the master plan objectives in the area; and 
The PAO will not change the allowable use and development of the balance of the property but may restrict options under the PAO pre‐
acquisition. Panel discussion The Panel notes the reasons put forward in the various pieces of strategic planning investigation as to why the promenade is being pursued on the top of the embankment and is satisfied it is an effective response to achieve the objectives for the precinct. Whether the promenade will increase graffiti or not is not an issue directly related to the Amendment but the Panel notes that the area is generally accessible already and the development should not increase this risk. The Panel also notes that the underlying zoning of the properties is not changing and thus use and development will continue to be managed within the existing framework. Pre‐acquisition the PAO may place limitations on the area under the overlay, but this is precisely its purpose; to prevent use and development that may prejudice the reason for its acquisition. WANGARATTA PLANNING SCHEME AMENDMENT C36
PANEL REPORT: 13 FEBRUARY 2012
Page 12
Conclusion The submission does not detract from the overall net community benefit of applying the PAO and it should be applied as exhibited to this property. 2.2.4
Other issues – 60, 62 and 64 Faithfull Street
Issues and submissions In addition to rear car parking, the owner of the above property raised a number of issues with Council including: 
Confirmation of titles; 
Process for acquisition and compensation; and 
Public liability and maintenance. Council provided a detailed written response direct to the property owner as part of the consultation following the Directions Hearing. Panel discussion Many of the issues raised go to the detailed implementation of the acquisition and post‐acquisition land management rather than direct comments on the Amendment itself. The Panel notes Council’s response to the issues in correspondence direct to the landowner and provided these Commitments are met it should result in the issues being addressed satisfactorily. Conclusion The Panel concludes that the issues raised in the submissions should be able to be addressed satisfactorily between the landowner and Council and the application of the PAO to this property is appropriate. 2.3
Panel recommendation
Having considered the strategic justification for the Amendment and the submissions, the Panel recommends: Adopt Amendment C36 to the Wangaratta Planning Scheme as exhibited. WANGARATTA PLANNING SCHEME AMENDMENT C36
PANEL REPORT: 13 FEBRUARY 2012
Page 13
Appendix A Council response to SPPF and
LPPF
State Planning Policy Framework The State Planning Policy Framework (SPPF) seeks to foster the objectives of planning in Victoria (as set out in the Planning and Environment Act 1987) through appropriate planning policies and practices, which encompass relevant environmental, social and economic factors. There are a number of policies specifically relevant to this matter. These are put forward below. The objective of Clause 11.03‐1 Open space planning is “to assist creation of a diverse and integrated network of public open space commensurate with the needs of the community”. Strategies to meet this objective are to: 
Plan for regional and local open space networks for both recreation and conservation of natural and cultural environments. 
Ensure that open space networks: 
Are linked through the provision of walking and cycling trails and rights of way. 
Are integrated with open space from abutting subdivisions. 
Incorporate, where possible, links between major parks and activity areas, along waterways and natural drainage corridors, connecting places of natural and cultural interest, as well as maintaining public accessibility on public land immediately adjoining waterways and coasts. 
Ensure land identified as critical to the completion of open space links is transferred for open space purposes. 
Ensure open space is designed to accommodate people of all abilities, ages and cultures. Clause 11‐05 details policies for regional development and references “Ready for Tomorrow – a Blueprint for Regional and Rural Victoria”. Wangaratta is a one of the regional cities and centres highlighted for supporting sustainable development providing for growth of population and service delivery. The policy seeks to recognise the character of settlements and provide for prosperous and sustainable communities. It recognises that regional Victoria has competitive strengths that should be protected and enhanced. WANGARATTA PLANNING SCHEME AMENDMENT C36
PANEL REPORT: 13 FEBRUARY 2012
Page 14
Of particular relevance to this amendment are the directions relating to: 
Distinct and diverse regional settlements by supporting high quality urban and architectural design, ensuring development respects and enhances scenic amenity, landscape features and view corridors of each settlement, limiting urban sprawl and capitalising on urban renewal opportunities and enhancing open space networks within and between settlements. 
Liveable settlements and healthy communities are to be promoted by responding to changing community needs, encouraging the development of compact urban areas based around activity centres and to maximise accessibility to facilities and services. Clause 12 Environmental and Landscape Values is of limited relevance but seeks to protect and enhance landscapes. In particular 12.04‐2 refers to Landscapes and has as its objective “to protect landscapes and significant open spaces that contribute to character, identify and sustainable environments”. Clause 13 Environmental Risks stipulates that “planning should adopt best practice environmental management and risk management approach which aims to avoid or minimise environmental degradation and hazards. Planning should identify and manage the potential for the environment, and environmental changes, to impact upon the economic, environmental or social well‐being of society”. The objective of Clause 13.02‐1 Floodplain Management is to assist the protection of: Life property and community infrastructure from flood hazard; the natural flood carrying capacity of rivers, streams and floodways; the flood storage function of floodplains and waterways; and floodplain areas of environmental significance or of importance to river health. Ensure that land use activities potentially discharging contaminated runoff or wastes to waterways are sited and managed to minimise such discharges and to protect the quality of surface water and groundwater resources. 
Discourage incompatible land use activities in areas subject to flooding, severe soil degradation, ground water salinity or geotechnical hazards where the land cannot be sustainably managed to ensure minimum impact on downstream water quality or flow volumes. Clause 15 Built Environment and Heritage stipulates that: “planning should ensure all new land use and development appropriately responds to its landscape, valued built form and cultural context, and protect places and sites with significant heritage, architectural, aesthetic, scientific and cultural values. Creating quality WANGARATTA PLANNING SCHEME AMENDMENT C36
PANEL REPORT: 13 FEBRUARY 2012
Page 15
built environments supports the social, cultural, economic and environmental wellbeing of our communities cities and towns”. In particular Clause 15.01‐2 – Urban Design Principles has as its objective “to achieve architectural and urban design outcomes that contribute positively to local urban character and enhance the public realm while minimising detrimental impact on neighbouring properties”. The strategies to support this objective include: 
Development must take into account the natural, cultural and strategic context of its location. 
Planning authorities should emphasise urban design policies and frameworks for key locations or precincts. 
The public realm, which includes main pedestrian spaces, streets, squares, parks and walkways should be protected and enhanced. 
Landmarks, views and vistas should be protected and enhanced or where appropriate, created by new additions to the public realm. 
Design of interfaces between buildings and public spaces, including the arrangement of adjoining activities, entrances, windows, and architectural detailing, should enhance the visual and social experience of the user. Clause 15.01‐4 Design for Safety seeks to “improve community safety and encourage neighbourhood design that makes people feel safe”. The strategy supports initiatives to improve safety, provide walking and cycling options. Local Planning Policy Framework The Municipal Strategic Statement (MSS) includes specific objectives, strategies and policies in relation to land use objectives for the municipality until the year 2030 and identifies strategic opportunities, and establishes land use priorities based on opportunities and constraints. Clause 21.01 Municipal Profile makes reference to the situation in north east Victoria of the municipality and provides a brief profile outlining the features, services and landscape elements that contribute to the lifestyle opportunities provided. Clause 21.03 Vision highlights the 2030 Community Vision having an integrated approach considering social, environmental and economic factors. It states that the core components of the vision are: 
Be a vibrant, diverse and secure place to live. 
Facilitate a growing and sustainable economy and employment base. 
Preserve and enhance our heritage and the environment. WANGARATTA PLANNING SCHEME AMENDMENT C36
PANEL REPORT: 13 FEBRUARY 2012
Page 16
Clause 21.06 Urban Development and Central Activities Area highlights that there is opportunity to further develop commercial, residential, tourism, civic, recreational and educational development with a high standard of urban design. Car parking is an important issue for Wangaratta and the central activities area in both provision and location. It particularly states: “The Wangaratta Urban Design Framework sets directions for commercial, mixed use, residential, tourism, education, urban design, building materials, street works, gateway approaches, recreation, landscaping and other land use and development in the Central Activities Area. The Masterplan and Structure Plan for the Ovens River/Faithfull Street Precinct 2001 also establishes key opportunities and priorities for the area”. Strategic directions for the Central Activities Area (CAA) are: 
To provide a highly attractive and unique riverfront precinct to complement the Wangaratta CAA and its environs, including the planning and construction of the Faithfull Street precinct. 
Encourage high quality urban design in the Wangaratta CAA and surrounds, including community art. 
Enhance and implement commercial, mixed use, residential, tourism, educational, urban design, building materials, street works, gateway approaches, recreation, landscaping and other land use and development opportunities in the Wangaratta CAA as outlined in the Wangaratta Urban Design Framework 2002. 
Provide a quality urban built environment and the integration of the Wangaratta CAA and the Ovens River as outlined in the Master Plan and Structure Plan for the Ovens River / Faithfull Street Precinct 2001. 
Improve the appearance, convenience and comfort of the Wangaratta CAA as a business, community, residential, tourism and entertainment area. 
Reinforce the role of the Wangaratta CAA as the major multi‐functional activity focus area to serve the needs of the local community and regional population. 
Ensure that well defined and attractive pedestrian linkages exist between precincts to help strengthen retail trading within the Wangaratta CAA. 
Provide adequate car parking in the Wangaratta CAA. Clause 21.08 Economic Development and Tourism again highlights the regional role of Wangaratta as an economic, employment and service centre. WANGARATTA PLANNING SCHEME AMENDMENT C36
PANEL REPORT: 13 FEBRUARY 2012
Page 17
Strategic directions include supporting and encouraging sustainable business growth and economic development and support the further development of a thriving retail sector to meet consumer needs. From a tourism perspective the strategic directions include providing a diverse range of opportunities and facilities and promote the lifestyle and geographic attributes of the municipality. Clause 21.11 Infrastructure and Community notes that the provision of integrated pedestrian and bicycle trails and public transport is important for within Wangaratta and in between Wangaratta and rural towns and that completion of the bicycle network along College Street and the Ovens River will provide continuous pedestrian and cycle linkages to assist connectivity and liveability. Local planning policies further build on the strategic directions. Of direct relevance to the amendment are: Clause 22.02 is a policy that addresses the Wangaratta CAA, Apex Park and Faithfull Street Precinct. It incorporates recommendations from the Wangaratta Urban Design Framework 2002 and the Ovens River Faithfull Street Masterplan 2001 and Structure Plan 2001. It provides a strategic framework for these areas, identifies opportunities, uses a triple bottom line approach and provides design outcomes. It has facilitated the selection of zones and overlays. Objectives include (as relevant): 
Encourage a broad range of residential, retail, office, accommodation, entertainment and recreation uses, where relevant. 
Encourage the redevelopment of land with alternative land uses by specifying preferred uses for particular sites and locations. 
Provide tourism experiences through increase access to parkland and the Ovens River and King River reserve areas and foreshores. 
Integrate development with planned improvements in the public domain including enhanced pedestrian/bicycle routes, streetscapes and an active river frontage. 
Capitalise on views across the Ovens River, King River, parklands and public spaces. 
Encourage activated edges to buildings that are situated along open space areas, public squares and pedestrian linkages. 
Ensure development contributes to activity, vitality and a relaxed and comfortable year round atmosphere. WANGARATTA PLANNING SCHEME AMENDMENT C36
PANEL REPORT: 13 FEBRUARY 2012
Wangaratta Rural City Council – Ordinary Meeting
21 February 2012
ATTACHMENT
FINANCE REPORTS
Refer Item 11.2.2.4
Operating Budget Comparison Report 2011/2012 as at December
Program
YTD Actuals
Revised
Budget
Reforecast
Budget
Variance Comments for variances > $20,000
37,931,252
(26,223,012)
58,578,897
(51,444,447)
58,637,831
(51,475,663)
58,934
(31,216)
11,708,240
7,134,450
7,162,168
27,718
525,344
(5,246,965)
5,111,323
(21,117,947)
5,108,903
(21,144,482)
(2,420)
(26,535)
(4,721,621)
(16,006,624)
(16,035,579)
(28,955)
1,552,147
1,552,147
0
1,070,862
(1,605,068)
1,070,862
(1,605,068)
0
0
(534,206)
(534,206)
0
(3,928,265)
5,901,908
(3,928,265)
5,901,908
0
0
1,973,643
6,040,590
1,973,643
6,040,590
0
0
Operating
Income
Expenditure
Net Operating Result
Capital
Grants & Contributions
Expenditure
Proceeds from Sale of Assets
Loans & Borrowings
Borrowings
Loan Redemption
0
Reserves
Transfers to Reserves
Transfers from Reserves
0
Rate Surplus (Deficit) B/Fwd
Projects carried forward to 10/11
Other Non-Cash Adjustments
0
6,986,618
160,000
158,763
0
(1,237)
Net
42,265
(1,067,100)
(1,024,835)
88,921
(2,133,435)
(2,044,514)
88,921
(2,133,435)
(2,044,514)
0
0
0
Net
6,681,587
(6,794,623)
(113,036)
14,278,400
(13,061,043)
1,217,357
14,298,398
(13,061,043)
1,237,355
19,998
0
19,998
Net
5,914,438
(7,294,706)
(1,380,267)
10,653,853
(13,612,386)
(2,958,533)
10,653,853
(13,612,386)
(2,958,533)
0
0
0
Net
1,928,267
(1,364,174)
564,093
3,849,954
(2,680,350)
1,169,604
3,849,954
(2,680,350)
1,169,604
0
0
0
Net
21,856,024
0
21,856,024
21,858,348
0
21,858,348
21,858,348
0
21,858,348
0
0
0
Net
1,508,670
(9,702,409)
(8,193,739)
7,849,421
(19,957,233)
(12,107,812)
7,888,357
(19,988,449)
(12,100,092)
38,936
(31,216)
7,720
Total Net
37,931,252
(26,223,012)
11,708,240
58,578,897
(51,444,447)
7,134,450
58,637,831
(51,475,663)
7,162,168
58,934
(31,216)
27,718
Net Rate Budget Surplus (Deficit)
Operating Summary by Department
Executive Services
Income
Expenditure
Sustainability
Income
Expenditure
Community Wellbeing
Income
Expenditure
Infrastructure Services
Income
Expenditure
Rates Income
Income
Expenditure
Non Capital Projects
Income
Expenditure
Total Operating Income
Total Operating Expenditure
Opertaing 1
Program
YTD Actuals
Revised
Budget
Reforecast
Budget
0
0
(91)
(9,921)
(5,098)
0
0
(27,154)
(42,265)
(7,500)
0
(800)
(19,621)
(6,000)
0
0
(55,000)
(88,921)
(7,500)
0
(800)
(19,621)
(6,000)
0
0
(55,000)
(88,921)
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Sustainability
012 Sustainability Management
014 Business Planning
016 Livestock Exchange
017 Plant Operations & Replacement
018 Finance
020 Centralised overheads
021 Governance & Property
022 Customer Services
023 Human resources
024 Oncost - General
025 Information Services
064 Planning and Customer Services
065 Building Services
068 Town Planning
069 Environment Mgt
070 Environmental Enhancement
071 Environmental Operations
Total Sustainability
(1,533,919)
(9,463)
(199,887)
(2,418,520)
(356,647)
(74,189)
(32,792)
(15,393)
(40,368)
(1,644,099)
(103,480)
(1,278)
(95,600)
(139,187)
(749)
0
(16,015)
(6,681,587)
(3,068,839)
(18,121)
(440,000)
(5,329,565)
(1,145,477)
(146,882)
(80,548)
(39,832)
(85,110)
(3,380,000)
(206,286)
(2,000)
(177,350)
(158,390)
0
0
0
(14,278,400)
(3,068,839)
(18,121)
(440,000)
(5,329,565)
(1,165,475)
(146,882)
(80,548)
(39,832)
(85,110)
(3,380,000)
(206,286)
(2,000)
(177,350)
(158,390)
0
0
0
(14,298,398)
0
0
0
0
19,998
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
19,998
Community Wellbeing
013 Aerodrome
015 Emergency & Fire
027 Library
028 Childrens Services
029 Family Day Care
030 Maternal & Child Health
032 Wangaratta Child Care
033 Community and Recreation
034 Community Meals
035 Do Care
036 Senior Citizens
037 Youth Services
038 Community Health & Amenity
039 Community Support North East Mgt
040 Full Cost Recovery
041 Home and Community Care
042 Intake and Assessment
043 Meals On Wheels
044 PAG - Planned Activity Group
045 Veterans Home Care
046 Packaged Care
047 ABI/PS/DISA Disability
048 CACP DEM Dementia
049 CACP FSD Financially disadvantaged
050 CACP General
051 CACP RRA Rural and Remote
052 CALD Culturally and linguistically disad
053 COC/Fee for service
(2,000)
10,766
(35,282)
(8,245)
(444,112)
(119,280)
(640,517)
0
0
(11,030)
0
(100)
0
(62,777)
(136,271)
(541,547)
(122,613)
(71,299)
(22)
(38,258)
(1,067,753)
(108,646)
(78,948)
(26,494)
(325,759)
(78,978)
(79,253)
(4,620)
(6,700)
(12,234)
(91,450)
(22,350)
(902,739)
(236,000)
(1,200,576)
0
0
(22,000)
0
(800)
0
(141,527)
(258,730)
(1,071,526)
(241,835)
(171,529)
(390)
(92,935)
(710,829)
(216,606)
(196,661)
(65,299)
(794,365)
(194,066)
(189,713)
(19,109)
(6,700)
(12,234)
(91,450)
(22,350)
(902,739)
(236,000)
(1,200,576)
0
0
(22,000)
0
(800)
0
(141,527)
(258,730)
(1,071,526)
(241,835)
(171,529)
(390)
(92,935)
(710,829)
(216,606)
(196,661)
(65,299)
(794,365)
(194,066)
(189,713)
(19,109)
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
INCOME
Executive Services
001 Executive Services
002 Council
004 Events
005 Economic Development & Tourism Mgt
006 Economic Development
007 Global Skills
010 Rural Skills Connect
011 Tourism
Total Executive Services
Variance Comments for variances > $20,000
Opertaing 2
Program
YTD Actuals
Revised
Reforecast
Budget
Budget
(500,803)
(500,803)
(127,907)
(127,907)
(167,925)
(167,925)
(1,334,882)
(1,334,882)
(800)
(800)
(58,500)
(58,500)
(623,444)
(623,444)
0
0
0
0
(559,668)
(559,668)
(100,697)
(100,697)
0
0
(307,600)
(307,600)
(11,658)
(11,658)
(10,653,853) (10,653,853)
Variance Comments for variances > $20,000
054 FSP Flexible Support Packages
055 HLINK1 Housing link 1
056 HLINK2 Housing link 2
057 Linkages
058 Cultural Development
059 Exhibitions Gallery
060 Performing Arts
061 Recreation Planning
062 Swimming Pools
066 Enforcement Services
067 Environmental Health
072 Flood & Drought Protection & Recovery
086 Wangaratta Cemetery Trust
101 Individual Support Packages
Total Community Wellbeing
(251,469)
(52,078)
(67,899)
(667,512)
0
(45,545)
(338,968)
0
0
(248,339)
(87,822)
0
(158,587)
(3,180)
(5,914,438)
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Infrastructure Services
063 Infrastructure Services Mgt
073 Public Facilities
074 Transfer Stations and Garbage
075 Facilities & Open Space Mgt
076 Depot and Essential Services
077 Facilities
078 Parks & Gardens
079 Technical Services Mgt
080 Design/Asset planning
082 Engineering
083 Projects and Contracts
084 Traffic Management
085 Works & Operations Mgt
Total Infrastructure Services
(2,706)
0
0
0
(29,897)
(1,364)
(8)
(61,123)
(4,944)
(1,814,705)
0
0
(13,520)
(1,928,267)
(2,000)
0
0
0
(29,516)
(1,000)
0
(47,000)
(12,000)
(3,744,918)
0
0
(13,520)
(3,849,954)
(2,000)
0
0
0
(29,516)
(1,000)
0
(47,000)
(12,000)
(3,744,918)
0
0
(13,520)
(3,849,954)
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Rates Income
019 Rates
Total Rates Income
(21,856,024)
(21,856,024)
(21,858,348)
(21,858,348)
(21,858,348)
(21,858,348)
0
0
Grand Total Income
(36,422,582)
(50,729,476)
(50,749,474)
19,998
EXPENDITURE
Executive Services
001 Executive Services
002 Council
003 Communications & Marketing
004 Events
005 Economic Development & Tourism Mgt
006 Economic Development
007 Global Skills
008 North East Valleys Food & Wine
009 Regional Migration
010 Rural Skills Connect
011 Tourism
Total Executive Services
224,828
262,827
69,654
47,363
96,359
104,634
4
0
0
0
261,431
1,067,100
433,716
460,864
165,910
93,203
185,080
278,682
0
0
0
0
515,980
2,133,435
433,716
460,864
165,910
93,203
185,080
278,682
0
0
0
0
515,980
2,133,435
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Sustainability
012 Sustainability Management
014 Business Planning
016 Livestock Exchange
017 Plant Operations & Replacement
018 Finance
020 Centralised overheads
021 Governance & Property
147,460
98,229
173,576
1,758,576
531,809
334,105
91,876
318,178
187,451
301,934
3,556,180
1,292,249
581,529
168,748
318,178
187,451
301,934
3,556,180
1,292,249
581,529
168,748
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Opertaing 3
Program
YTD Actuals
022 Customer Services
023 Human resources
024 Oncost - General
025 Information Services
064 Planning and Customer Services
065 Building Services
068 Town Planning
069 Environment Mgt
070 Environmental Enhancement
071 Environmental Operations
113 Oncost - Facilities
114 Oncost - Works and operations
Total Sustainability
239,811
198,672
1,741,783
716,177
61,828
131,664
237,444
136,698
207
800
80,332
113,575
6,794,623
Revised
Budget
489,220
443,570
3,070,514
1,247,350
134,080
277,140
485,980
291,620
6,000
0
35,000
174,300
13,061,043
Community Wellbeing
013 Aerodrome
015 Emergency & Fire
026 Community Wellbeing Mgt
027 Library
028 Childrens Services
029 Family Day Care
030 Maternal & Child Health
031 Pre-Schools
032 Wangaratta Child Care
033 Community and Recreation
034 Community Meals
035 Do Care
036 Senior Citizens
037 Youth Services
038 Community Health & Amenity
039 Community Support North East Mgt
040 Full Cost Recovery
041 Home and Community Care
042 Intake and Assessment
043 Meals On Wheels
044 PAG - Planned Activity Group
045 Veterans Home Care
046 Packaged Care
047 ABI/PS/DISA Disability
048 CACP DEM Dementia
049 CACP FSD Financially disadvantaged
050 CACP General
051 CACP RRA Rural and Remote
052 CALD Culturally and linguistically disad
053 COC/Fee for service
054 FSP Flexible Support Packages
055 HLINK1 Housing link 1
056 HLINK2 Housing link 2
057 Linkages
058 Cultural Development
059 Exhibitions Gallery
060 Performing Arts
061 Recreation Planning
062 Swimming Pools
066 Enforcement Services
067 Environmental Health
072 Flood & Drought Protection & Recovery
086 Wangaratta Cemetery Trust
101 Individual Support Packages
112 Community Planning
Total Community Wellbeing
21,721
24,982
125,228
405,737
8,856
438,942
217,804
761
545,331
103,547
392
2,588
(126)
40,374
91,835
63,828
98,813
697,531
136,789
59,053
33,546
30,950
1,077,574
89,639
71,210
42,636
356,309
88,162
91,559
7,928
266,221
53,027
73,710
613,076
28,000
143,824
650,279
72,816
0
153,846
115,903
124
103,549
3,716
43,113
7,294,706
40,685
79,195
273,034
582,012
27,950
916,737
433,418
10,000
1,196,275
232,342
1,637
32,216
0
93,751
179,380
141,527
254,956
1,364,073
325,464
167,260
69,762
75,029
665,829
217,947
187,802
69,608
763,853
194,708
189,493
14,182
514,904
125,282
154,394
1,229,032
80,315
333,789
1,296,364
143,076
0
299,290
255,116
0
244,553
7,588
128,558
13,612,386
Reforecast
Budget
489,220
443,570
3,070,514
1,247,350
134,080
277,140
485,980
291,620
6,000
0
35,000
174,300
13,061,043
40,685
79,195
273,034
582,012
27,950
916,737
433,418
10,000
1,196,275
232,342
1,637
32,216
0
93,751
179,380
141,527
254,956
1,364,073
325,464
167,260
69,762
75,029
665,829
217,947
187,802
69,608
763,853
194,708
189,493
14,182
514,904
125,282
154,394
1,229,032
80,315
333,789
1,296,364
143,076
0
299,290
255,116
0
244,553
7,588
128,558
13,612,386
Variance Comments for variances > $20,000
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Opertaing 4
Program
Infrastructure Services
063 Infrastructure Services Mgt
073 Public Facilities
074 Transfer Stations and Garbage
075 Facilities & Open Space Mgt
076 Depot and Essential Services
077 Facilities
078 Parks & Gardens
079 Technical Services Mgt
080 Design/Asset planning
081 Drainage
082 Engineering
083 Projects and Contracts
084 Traffic Management
085 Works & Operations Mgt
104 Road maintenance
Total Infrastructure Services
Rates Income
019 Rates
Total Rates Income
Grand Total Expenditure
YTD Actuals
Revised
Budget
Reforecast
Budget
Variance Comments for variances > $20,000
156,363
(2,011)
14,416
62,939
141,483
170,984
47,161
73,327
117,137
7,743
293,808
188,675
618
91,529
0
1,364,174
323,882
0
0
133,864
273,100
360,465
10,400
146,750
230,900
0
606,404
424,900
3,000
166,685
0
2,680,350
323,882
0
0
133,864
273,100
360,465
10,400
146,750
230,900
0
606,404
424,900
3,000
166,685
0
2,680,350
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
16,520,603
31,487,214
31,487,214
0
Opertaing 5
Capital Budget Comparison Report 2011/2012 as at December
Project
Asset Planning
Expenditure
00407 Phillipson St tree renewal stage 2
Buildings - Budget
Expenditure
01013 Buildings Renewal
Buildings - Hall & sporting pavilions
Expenditure
00512 Oxley Reserve kitchen upgrade
00514 Whitfield Rec Reserve kitchen upgrade
01021 Whorouly South Scout Hall demolition
Buildings - Major
Income
00856 HP Barr Sustain'ty & Ecoliving Precinct
YTD Actuals
Revised
Budget
Reforecast
Budget
Variance Comments for variances > $20,000
35
35
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
72,610
72,610
72,610
72,610
0
0
77
28,791
0
28,868
0
28,413
35,000
63,413
0
28,791
35,000
63,791
0
(378)
0
(378)
(10,000)
(10,000)
(30,000)
(30,000)
(30,000)
(30,000)
0
0
0
0
0
0
61,235
0
22,527
6,000
1,809
88,484
87,200
147,350
25,000
0
439,605
0
0
0
0
61,235
0
22,527
6,000
1,809
88,484
87,200
147,350
25,000
0
439,605
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
15,000
23,472
15,000
23,472
0
0
Expenditure
00460 WGC - Install wall to Level 1 Toilets
33
00464 Storage facility - F&OS and Environment
663
00465 WGC - reception area public display system
0
00704 Wangaratta Govt Centre Stage 2
0
00821 Aerodrome - Major Maintenance Restaurant
11,273
00822 Exhibition Gallery renail roof
66
00823 Saleyards kiosk refurbishment
8,383
00837 Signage - Exhibitions Gallery and W'shop
2,000
00838 Meeting room and MECC Upgrade
1,809
00856 HP Barr Sustain'ty & Ecoliving Precinct
73,077
00903 WGC - Restructure
0
01018 Depot - workshop, store, office, lunchroom amenities
100,241
01019 Livestock eschange optic fibre
0
01037 WGC stage 3 - design and tender
1,516
199,061
Buildings - Miscellaneous
Expenditure
00467 OH&S roof top safety audit implementation
5,043
00719 Storage shed demolition - Grand Central Hotel
(2,461)
Capital Projects 1
Project
01038 Depot - Moyhu amenities upgrade
Buildings - Pools
Expenditure
01014 Swimming pools Renewal
01017 WISAC - Balustrade to stadium area
01055 WISAC - storage shed
Buildings - Preschools
Expenditure
01016 Kindergarten compliance
Buildings - Toilets
Expenditure
00462 Showgrounds Toilet upgrade
Cemetery
Expenditure
00765 Cemetery Relocate storm water
00766 Columbarium wall - stage 1
00877 Cemetery machinery shed
01009 Cemetery Sewerage Treatment Plant
Communications and marketing
Expenditure
00006 Municipal boundary and town entry signage
Community & Recreation
Income
00635 Tarrawingee Hall Upgrade
00708 Glenrowan Rec Reserve hall accoustic ceiling
00797 Carboor Hall Upgrade - Stage 2
00842 Whitfield Swinburne Pavilion Redev'ment
Expenditure
00058 Cheshunt Hall & Kitchen upgrade
00635 Tarrawingee Hall Upgrade
00698 Bowmans Murmungee Stage 1
00708 Glenrowan Rec Reserve hall accoustic ceiling
00797 Carboor Hall Upgrade - Stage 2
00842 Whitfield Swinburne Pavilion Redev'ment
YTD Actuals
11,515
14,096
Revised
Budget
25,000
63,472
Reforecast
Budget
25,000
63,472
Variance Comments for variances > $20,000
0
578
2,820
3,398
56,000
29,750
2,820
88,570
56,000
29,750
2,820
88,570
0
0
0
0
312
312
25,000
25,000
25,000
25,000
0
0
468
468
0
0
0
0
0
0
16,631
(0)
13,529
13,079
43,239
16,631
6,000
13,529
12,370
48,530
16,631
6,000
13,529
12,370
48,530
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
49,040
49,040
49,040
49,040
0
0
(43,000)
(8,000)
(50,000)
0
(101,000)
(79,000)
(8,000)
(55,000)
(30,000)
(172,000)
(76,580)
(8,000)
(55,000)
(30,000)
(169,580)
(2,420)
0
0
0
(2,420)
75
163,645
1,771
20,586
80,298
0
0
147,893
0
19,836
72,494
30,000
0
163,645
1,771
20,586
80,298
30,000
0
(15,752)
(1,771)
(750)
(7,804)
0
0
0
Capital Projects 2
Project
YTD Actuals
266,375
Community and social planning
Income
00748 Rural Towns - Westend Tenancy Advisory Group (20,700)
(20,700)
Expenditure
00748 Rural Towns - Westend Tenancy Advisory Group 13,894
13,894
Community Facilities Minor Category
Income
00714 Sth Wang equine centre - cross country course
0
00820 Community Facilities Minor Category
0
0
Expenditure
00714 Sth Wang equine centre - cross country course
21,226
00820 Community Facilities Minor Category
0
21,226
Country Football & Netball
Income
00134 Country football and netball program
0
00885 Moyhu Netball Court
(581)
(581)
Expenditure
00134 Country football and netball program
0
00690 Greta sprinkler system
0
00885 Moyhu Netball Court
88
88
Country Roads & Bridges Initiative
Expenditure
01064 Diffey Rd Bridge
0
01065 Top Plain Rd Bridge
(0)
01066 Cropper Creek Bridge
0
01067 McMahons Rd 1600m
15,500
01068 McMahons Rd 1700m
16,500
01069 Lewis Lane
8,000
01070 Moyhu-Hansonville Rd 1500m
462
01071 Moyhu-Hansonville Rd 3000m
200,995
01072 Kilfeera Road
189
01073 Boorhaman Rd
(0)
241,646
Cultural development
Revised
Budget
270,223
Reforecast
Budget
296,300
Variance Comments for variances > $20,000
(27,000)
(27,000)
(27,000)
(27,000)
0
0
19,440
19,440
19,440
19,440
0
0
(10,000)
(101,400)
(111,400)
(10,000)
(101,400)
(111,400)
0
0
0
62,000
120,000
182,000
62,000
120,000
182,000
0
0
0
(130,000)
(14,075)
(144,075)
(130,000)
(14,075)
(144,075)
0
0
0
150,000
0
88
150,088
150,000
0
88
150,088
0
0
0
0
95,000
50,000
25,000
15,500
16,500
8,000
137,500
187,500
175,000
290,000
1,000,000
95,000
50,000
25,000
15,500
16,500
8,000
137,500
187,500
175,000
290,000
1,000,000
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
(26,077)
Capital Projects 3
Project
Expenditure
00861 Cultural Dev't History Project Equipment
Design
Expenditure
00515 Bus operations and improvement works
Drainage
Expenditure
00828 Benton Road major culvert alterations
00858 Drainage Imp'ts Cnr Ford & Murphy Sts
01041 Renewal - Drainage
YTD Actuals
Revised
Budget
Reforecast
Budget
Variance Comments for variances > $20,000
0
0
4,500
4,500
4,500
4,500
0
0
2,820
2,820
0
0
0
0
0
0
11,180
33,732
7,126
52,038
25,476
32,831
177,000
235,307
25,476
32,831
177,000
235,307
0
0
0
0
0
(130,000)
0
(427,000)
0
(81,000)
(120,000)
0
0
(758,000)
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
326,000
352,000
0
186,040
0
5,712
110,000
24,981
12,600
0
20,000
0
13,000
115,000
100,000
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Engineering
Income
00312 Local road resheets
0
0
00317 Shared pathway - Warby Range Rd extension
0
(130,000)
00725 Road Street reconstruction
0
0
00909 Showgrounds to CBD cycle connection
(127,000)
(427,000)
01010 Bridge upgrades
0
0
01060 Flood Recovery Community Infrastructure - Merriwa
(100,000)
Park
(81,000)
01061 Flood Recovery Community Infrastructure - Merriwa Park 0WTLC (120,000)
01095 Izard's Bridge replacement
(68,172)
0
01105 Comfort Station Redevelopment
0
0
(295,172)
(758,000)
Expenditure
00311 Local road reseals
0
326,000
00312 Local road resheets
195,415
352,000
00316 Bikepath - Ovens River at Showgrounds
41
0
00317 Shared pathway - Warby Range Rd extension
3,443
186,040
00318 Wenhams Lane Reserve - pathway and bushfire restoration
273
0
00329 Rail Trail Construction - Wangaratta to Oxley
8,443
5,712
00330 Kerb and channel replacement
667
110,000
00335 Ford Street - Engineering Works
(0)
24,981
00337 Dedicated Right Turn Lane into Bowser Landfill North Wangara
0
12,600
00343 Intersection Improvement Rowan & Phillipson
3
0
00346 Seal approaches to railway crossings
(0)
20,000
00351 Carboor-Everton intersection Lake Buffalo Rd
78
0
00523 Disability/all access upgrade works
123
13,000
00530 Shoulder renewal
3,500
115,000
00531 Major patching
77,042
100,000
Capital Projects 4
Project
YTD Actuals
Revised
Budget
00555 Maintenance for reseals
124,141
205,000
00620 CAA Car Parking Strategy - Phase 1
20,474
20,474
00651 Bridge rehab - asphalt 2 bridge decks on King Valley Rd13
at C
0
00686 Rail trail - sealing
17,350
79,500
00705 Roy St 'Road over rail' overpass
0
15,000
00710 Kerb ramp program
755
20,000
00711 Footpaths - construct incomplete segments
13,129
25,000
00712 Footpath renewal program
8,960
62,000
00725 Road Street reconstruction
10,030
258,200
00726 Galen College community school roadworks
0
0
00810 Templeton Street
473
0
00848 Improvement Newman Street (Bunnings)
0
79,501
00849 Kerr Street - Road stormwater imp'ments
7,890
198,500
00859 Shared Paths (High Prio'ty Links) Prog
10,653
110,000
00860 Footpath High Priority Program
19,911
65,000
00862 Township Gravel Road Sealing Program
58,046
150,000
00863 Recreation Parklands M'plan Traffic Mgt
0
150,000
00864 Wangaratta Transport Study Implemt'n
5,463
65,000
00875 Road/Rail Closure Bourke Road
0
10,000
00909 Showgrounds to CBD cycle connection
221,202
857,677
01010 Bridge upgrades
0
0
01011 Bicycle path renewal
0
25,000
01026 Wirrinya Ave final seal
0
12,500
01042 Upgrade access into and around the Cenotaph
16,670
17,000
01043 Doyle Street kerb and channel extension
0
87,300
01046 Renewal Application - Culvert Renewal program
0
25,000
01049 Bradbury Drive - extension
13,760
98,000
01060 Flood Recovery Community Infrastructure - Merriwa47,133
Park
81,000
01061 Flood Recovery Community Infrastructure - Merriwa10,978
Park WTLC 120,000
01095 Izard's Bridge replacement
0
0
01103 Whorouly Hotel car park
0
10,000
896,059
4,111,985
Environmental enhancement
Expenditure
00914 Ecoliving - trailer and signs
11,110
58,785
01015 Solar North East - regional community energy program 0
60,000
01045 Wenhams Lane playground and reserve improvement 0
10,000
01048 Public place recycling at City oval
0
12,800
11,110
141,585
Executive Services
Income
Reforecast
Budget
205,000
20,474
0
79,500
15,000
20,000
25,000
62,000
258,200
0
0
79,501
198,500
110,000
65,000
150,000
150,000
65,000
10,000
857,677
0
25,000
12,500
17,000
87,300
25,000
98,000
81,000
120,000
0
10,000
4,111,985
58,785
60,000
10,000
12,800
141,585
Variance Comments for variances > $20,000
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Capital Projects 5
Project
00003 Ovens River/Faithful St precinct
Expenditure
00003 Ovens River/Faithful St precinct
Exhibitions Gallery
Income
00103 Artworks - Robert Salzer
Expenditure
00102 Gallery acquisitions
00103 Artworks - Robert Salzer
Flood and drought protection
Expenditure
00421 Water - Preschool water saving devices
Information services
Income
00310 Corporate systems upgrade
Expenditure
00310 Corporate systems upgrade
Intake & assessment
Expenditure
00081 Minor capital - Active Service Model
Parks and gardens
Income
00508 Whitfield Rec Reserve water reuse project
Expenditure
00406 Merriwa Park infrastructure renewals
00506 Wangaratta Main Rd landscape renovation
00507 Wangaratta Main Rd landscape strategy
00509 Playground equipment renewal
00511 Park furniture renewal
00723 Irrigation systems - renewals
01047 Shade sails for playgrounds
YTD Actuals
Revised
Budget
(2,716,500)
(2,716,500)
Reforecast
Budget
(2,716,500)
(2,716,500)
550
550
2,716,500
2,716,500
2,716,500
2,716,500
0
0
0
0
(2,500)
(2,500)
(2,500)
(2,500)
0
0
5,502
0
5,502
3,100
5,000
8,100
3,100
5,000
8,100
0
0
0
153
153
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
(28,500)
(28,500)
(28,500)
(28,500)
0
0
33,175
33,175
65,361
65,361
65,361
65,361
0
0
992
992
17,889
17,889
17,889
17,889
0
0
(50,000)
(50,000)
(50,000)
(50,000)
(50,000)
(50,000)
0
0
8,661
153
0
39,606
14,915
5,316
31,201
99,853
136,250
57,919
10,000
60,000
15,000
29,000
50,000
358,169
136,250
57,919
10,000
60,000
15,000
29,000
50,000
358,169
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Variance Comments for variances > $20,000
0
0
Capital Projects 6
Project
Recreation planning
Income
00844 Tarrawingee Recreation Reserve Bore
00905 Wangaratta Clay Target Club-4 perm traps
Expenditure
00715 Skate park redevelopment
00844 Tarrawingee Recreation Reserve Bore
00905 Wangaratta Clay Target Club-4 perm traps
Roads to Recovery
Expenditure
00324 R2R12 Bridges/Major Culverts
00353 R2R reseals
00553 R2R reseals - Glenrowan Rd
00682 R2R Reseal Shanley Street
00809 R2R10 Lake Buffalo-Carboor Road
00824 R2R Byrne Gully Xing over Reedy Creek
00825 (R2R) Steer's Bridge replace timber deck
00826 R2R Road/Kerb reconstruct
00929 R2R11 Parnall Court, Wangaratta
00936 R2R11 Sisley Avenue, Wangaratta
00989 R2R12 Road Reconstruction Renewal
Showgrounds Redevelopment Project
Income
00895 Showgrounds - Buildings
00896 Showgrounds - Lighting
Expenditure
00707 Showgrounds - Civil RLCIP
00895 Showgrounds - Buildings
00896 Showgrounds - Lighting
00897 Showgrounds - Power Upgrade
Street Lighting
Expenditure
00546 Street lighting improvements
YTD Actuals
Revised
Budget
Reforecast
Budget
Variance Comments for variances > $20,000
(16,249)
(33,239)
(49,488)
(16,250)
(54,195)
(70,445)
(16,250)
(54,195)
(70,445)
0
0
0
0
80
16,199
16,279
0
0
32,126
32,126
0
80
32,126
32,206
0
(80)
0
(80)
1,440
0
16
378
0
0
3,336
180,509
0
0
0
185,679
100,000
700,000
0
0
0
65,000
15,328
234,265
0
0
444,360
1,558,953
100,000
700,000
0
0
0
65,000
15,328
234,265
0
0
444,360
1,558,953
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
(725,903)
(275,000)
(1,000,903)
(725,903)
(275,000)
(1,000,903)
0
0
0
0
858,532
429,142
7,933
1,295,608
8,074
2,371,521
395,932
25,019
2,800,546
8,074
2,371,521
395,932
25,019
2,800,546
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
35,000
35,000
35,000
35,000
0
0
Streetscapes
Expenditure
Capital Projects 7
Project
01012 Streetscapes Renewal
Technical Servs Management
Expenditure
00306 RIDF North Wangaratta
00307 Sinclair Drive development
00898 Murrell Street Development
YTD Actuals
0
0
251
18,847
2,665
21,763
Town planning
Expenditure
01044 Compulsory acquisition - Ovens riverside promenade4,296
4,296
Traffic management
Income
00749 Bus Shelter Construction
1,119
1,119
Wangaratta & District Childcare Centre
Expenditure
00637 WCSC - Miscellaneous Works
50,916
00814 Children's Services Centre - Stage 2
618
00840 Wang Children's Services centre Stage 2
377,413
01098 Wang Children's Services centre Stage 3
0
01104 Batchelors Green Kindergarden furniture and equipment 0
428,946
Wangaratta Performing Arts Centre
Expenditure
00640 WPAC - Marquee
7,901
00839 WPAC Master Plan 5 year
34,208
42,109
Waste minimisation and landfill
Income
00873 Bowser Landfill Cell 8 - Design & Construction
478
478
Expenditure
00429 Bowser East landfill rehabilitation
601
00430 Bowser West landfill rehabilitation
285
00431 Bowser landfill development
0
00873 Bowser Landfill Cell 8 - Design & Construction
534,889
01022 Bowser East leachate management
0
01023 Bowser West leachate management
0
01024 Bowser ground water bore network extension
0
Revised
Budget
45,000
45,000
Reforecast
Budget
45,000
45,000
Variance Comments for variances > $20,000
0
0
0
19,968
755,850
775,818
0
19,968
755,850
775,818
0
0
0
0
200,000
200,000
200,000
200,000
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
50,916
0
424,858
0
34,300
510,074
50,916
0
424,858
0
34,300
510,074
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
130,974
130,974
0
130,974
130,974
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
49,092
0
42,117
1,079,957
90,000
110,000
100,000
49,092
0
42,117
1,079,957
90,000
110,000
100,000
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Capital Projects 8
Project
YTD Actuals
535,775
Revised
Budget
1,471,166
80,991
21,613
7,869
0
110,473
124,800
48,000
26,000
21,500
220,300
124,800
48,000
26,000
21,500
220,300
0
0
0
0
0
Grand Total - Income
(525,344)
(5,111,323)
(5,108,903)
(2,420)
Grand Total - Expenditure
4,575,888
17,911,344
17,937,879
(26,535)
Works and operations Periodic Maintenance
Expenditure
00315 Periodic bridge maintenance
00529 Signage on roads replacement
00532 Fire hydrants
00709 Rural drainage upgrades
Reforecast
Budget
1,471,166
Variance Comments for variances > $20,000
0
Capital Projects 9
Capital Budget Comparison Report 2011/2012 as at December
Program
EXPENDITURE
Executive Services
Total Executive Services
Sustainability
016 Livestock Exchange
017 Plant Operations & Replacement
021 Governance & Property
025 Information Services
Total Sustainability
Community Wellbeing
027 Library
046 Packaged Care
066 Enforcement Services
086 Wangaratta Cemetery Trust
Total Community Wellbeing
Infrastructure Services
074 Transfer Stations and Garbage
076 Depot and Essential Services
077 Facilities
084 Traffic Management
Total Infrastructure Services
Rates Income
019 Rates
Total Rates Income
Grand Total
YTD Actuals
Revised
Budget
Reforecast
Budget
Variance Comments for variances > $20,000
0
0
0
0
0
602,523
0
24,041
626,574
0
2,929,483
25,000
180,300
3,134,783
0
2,929,483
25,000
180,300
3,134,783
0
0
0
0
0
365
26,775
0
10,714
37,853
3,820
0
10,000
0
13,820
3,820
0
10,000
0
13,820
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
6,650
6,650
0
23,500
27,500
7,000
58,000
0
23,500
27,500
7,000
58,000
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
671,077
3,206,603
3,206,603
0
Capital not in a project 1
Wangaratta Rural City Council – Ordinary Meeting
21 February 2012
ATTACHMENT
RECORDS OF ASSEMBLIES OF COUNCILLORS
Refer Item 12
File No: 10.020.020
ASSEMBLY OF COUNCILLORS
14 February 2012
Draft Council Agenda and Deputations Meeting
Commenced 5.35pm
Present:
Councillors:
Councillor R Paino, Mayor; Councillor A Griffiths, Councillor D McPhie,
Councillor L McCully, Councillor R Webb.
Officers:
Doug Sharp, Chief Executive Officer
Adrian Gasperoni, Acting Director – Infrastructure
Graham Nickless, Executive Manager – Economic Development
Ray Park, Director – Sustainability
Ruth Tai, Director – Community Wellbeing
Michelle Grainger, Manager Planning and Customer Service
Apologies:
Councillor L McInerney and Councillor R Parisotto.
Conflict of Interest Disclosures:
• Councillor A Griffiths declared a conflict of interest in item 1.1.3.3 (roadside
spraying) as the report concerns roadside spraying of roads adjoining to his land
and he is treasurer of a participating Landcare Group.
• Councillor L McCully declared a conflict of interest in item 1.1.3.2 (Parfitt Rd –
Wilson Road reticulated sewerage scheme update) as she has a direct interest in
a property in Partiff Road.
Matters Considered:
The following items were discussed:
11.2.1.1
Council Plan – Progress Report
11.2.1.2
Directorate Activity Reports
11.2.1.3
Councillor Portfolios and Associated Committees
11.2.2.1
Planning Permit Application PLN11-059 - Two (2) Lot Subdivision and
Development of Two (2) Dwellings at 97 Greta Road Wangaratta
Vic 3677
11.2.2.2
Finance Reports
11.2.2.3
Rural Land Strategy Draft 2
11.2.2.4
Various Land Acquisitions
11.2.3.1
Wangaratta Children’s Service Centre Final Stage
11.2.3.2
Wangaratta Community Pride Committee – Keep Australia Beautiful Victoria
Membership
11.2.3.3
Drought Bores
11.4.1.1
Arts Culture and Heritage Advisory Committee Report
11.4.1.2
Wangaratta Unlimited Advisory Board (Committee) Meeting Report
11.4.1.3
Agriculture and Agribusiness Advisory Committee
Councillor L McCully left the room during discussion of item 1.1.3.2 having declared a
conflict of interest.
Councillor A Griffiths left the room during discussion of item 1.1.3.3 having declared a
conflict of interest.
Other items
1.
2.
3.
4.
Planning Scheme Amendment C36 – Ovens Riverside
Acting Mayor
Presentation by Dean McDonald and John Miles on behalf of Wangaratta Cycling
Club
Forum Agenda items 1.1.1.1 to 1.1.5.2
Meeting Closed:
The meeting closed at 9.30am.
File No: 10.020.020
ASSEMBLY OF COUNCILLORS
Conciliation Meeting
8 February 2012
Use and Development of a Materials recycling Plant
Commenced 1.00pm
Present:
Applicants: S. Louw- Oxleys, R. Pianegonda, C. Pianegonda
Objectors: P. Rennick, D. Williams, J. Paul, J. Kyne, E. Meyer Crosher, M. Crosher
Observer: P Anderson
Councillors:
Councillor R Paino, Mayor
Officers: Michelle Grainger, Manager Planning and Customer Services
Apologies:
Nil.
Conflict of Interest Disclosures:
Nil.
Matters Discussed/ Considered:
The following item was discussed:
Planning application P 11-156 and objections to it.
Meeting Closed:
The meeting closed at 2.15pm.
File No: 10.020.020
ASSEMBLY OF COUNCILLORS
Sunday 5 February 2012
Councillors Retreat
Commenced 10.00am
Present:
Councillors:
Councillor R Paino, Mayor; Councillor A Griffiths, Councillor D McPhie
(arrived at 2.00pm), Councillor L McCully, Councillor L McInerney,
Councillor R Parisotto, Councillor R Webb.
Officers:
Doug Sharp, Chief Executive Officer
Adrian Gasperoni, Acting Director – Infrastructure
Graham Nickless, Executive Manager – Economic Development
Ray Park, Director – Sustainability
Ruth Tai, Director – Community Wellbeing
Apologies:
Conflict of Interest Disclosures:
•
•
Councillor A Griffiths declared a conflict of interest in item 1.11 weed and pest
control update report, and the Heritage Study referred to in the Council Plan and
Works and Activities progress report.
Councillor R Parisotto declared a conflict of interest in item 1.11 (planning and
subdivision report) as she is a tenant of the Lloyd building.
Matters Considered:
The following items were discussed:
1.1
Setting the Scene
1.2
3 year reflection
1.3
Council Policies Review - Status Report
1.4
Strategies Review - Status Report
1.5
South Wangaratta Urban Renewal Masterplan
1.6
Multi Deck Carpark
1.7
Council election – preparations and impacts (caretaker provisions)
1.8
Freight Strategy
1.9
Open Space Strategy and Recreation Strategy
1.10 Carbon Tax – implications for LG
1.11 Regular Forum Reports Part 1 - CMT (refer 2.7)
There was no discussion of the Planning and Subdivision report and therefore
Councillor R Parisotto was not required to leave the room.
There was no discussion of the Weed and Pest Control update and Heritage Study and
therefore Councillor A Griffiths was not required to leave the room.
Other items:
Nil.
Meeting Closed:
The meeting closed at 5.30pm.
File No: 10.020.020
ASSEMBLY OF COUNCILLORS
Monday 6 February 2012
Councillors Retreat
Commenced 8.30am
Present:
Councillors:
Councillor R Paino, Mayor; Councillor A Griffiths, Councillor D McPhie,
Councillor L McCully (left at 12.30pm and returned at 1.30pm),
Councillor L McInerney, Councillor R Parisotto (arrived 11.00am),
Councillor R Webb.
Officers:
Doug Sharp, Chief Executive Officer
Adrian Gasperoni, Acting Director – Infrastructure
Graham Nickless, Executive Manager – Economic Development
Michelle Grainger, Manager – Planning & Customer Service (arrived at
9.00am and left at 12.30pm)
Ray Park, Director – Sustainability
Ruth Tai, Director – Community Wellbeing
Paul Sommerville, Manager – Project and Contracts (8.30am – 9.30am)
Conflict of Interest Disclosures:
•
•
Councillor A Griffiths declared a conflict of interest in item 2.3 (Heritage Study).
Ray Park declared a conflict of interest in item 2.2 (Rural Land Strategy).
Matters Considered:
The following items were discussed:
2.1
Waste Management Strategy
2.2
Rural Land Strategy
2.3
Heritage Study
2.4
Council Plan Review
2.5
Councillor Portfolio Review
2.6
iPad Discussion Paper
2.7
Regular Forum Reports (continued)
2.8
AFL Game preparations
The discussion of the Heritage Study was confirmed to process and timing and did not
involve consideration of particular sites and therefore Councillor A Griffiths was not
required to leave the room.
Other items:
Nil.
Meeting Closed:
The meeting closed at 4.35pm.
File No: 10.020.020
ASSEMBLY OF COUNCILLORS
24 January 2012
Prior to Ordinary Council Meeting
Commenced 5.30pm
Present:
Councillors:
Councillor R Paino, Mayor; Councillor A Griffiths; Councillor D McPhie
(arrived at 5.35pm), Councillor L McCully, Councillor R Parisotto,
Councillor R Webb.
Officers:
Doug Sharp, Chief Executive Officer
Adrian Gasperoni, Acting Director – Infrastructure
Ray Park, Director – Sustainability
Ruth Tai, Director – Community Wellbeing
Apologies:
Councillor L McInerney.
Conflict of Interest Disclosures:
Nil.
Matters Considered:
Council Meeting Agenda for 24 January 2012:
11.2.1.1
Regional Wine Industry Restructure Support Strategy
11.2.1.2
Financial Support – Wangaratta Sports Carnival
11.2.2.1
Review Of Water Trading Rules For The Ovens And King System
11.2.2.2
Moyhu Bowls Club Community Loan
11.2.2.3
Draft 2 Rural Land Strategy
11.2.2.4
Finance Reports
11.2.2.5
2011/2012 Budget Review
11.2.2.6
Operation of Drought Bores
11.2.3.1
Wangaratta Children’s Services Centre – New Kindergarten
11.2.3.2
Travellers Aid In Rural Victoria Program
11.2.4.1
Progress On The Implementation Of The Wangaratta Parking Strategy
11.2.4.2
Merriwa Park / Kaluna Park Masterplan Variation
11.2.4.3
Committee Of Management For The Ovens River Shared Path
11.2.4.4
Petition: Pedestrian Crossing – Docker Street, Wangaratta
11.3.1.1
Friends Of Lacluta Special Committee
11.4.1.1
Agriculture And Agribusiness Advisory Committee
Other items
1.
Arrangements for Australia Day.
Meeting Closed:
The meeting closed at 6.10pm.