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Moorabool Shire Council

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Adopted the 2025/26 Annual Budget, including fees, charges, and differential rates

  • Set 2025/26 service charges and implemented a municipal charge of $360 per tenement
  • Adopted the 2025–2035 Long Term Financial Plan
  • Adopted the 2025–2029 Council Plan
  • and 2 more

6 decisions · 10 min read
Official minutes of the Moorabool Shire Council meeting on 25 June 2025

AI-generated summary. Written by a language model from the official minutes. Check the source before you quote or rely on it.

Key Decisions & Outcomes

  • Adopted the 2025/26 Annual Budget, including fees, charges, and differential rates.
  • Set 2025/26 service charges and implemented a municipal charge of $360 per tenement.
  • Adopted the 2025–2035 Long Term Financial Plan.
  • Adopted the 2025–2029 Council Plan.
  • Adopted the 2025–2035 Asset Plan and directed publication on Council’s website.
  • Adopted the Revenue and Rating Plan; to review revenue strategy and investigate a municipal charge for 2026/27.

Detailed Descriptions

Adopted the 2025/26 Annual Budget, including fees, charges, and differential rates

  • Context: Council was required under the Local Government Act 2020 to formally adopt the 2025/26 Annual Budget by 30 June 2025, following public exhibition and consideration of submissions.
  • Details:
    • Meeting: Unscheduled/Special Council Meeting, Wednesday 25 June 2025 (Council Chambers, 15 Stead Street, Ballan & Online).
    • Statutory process: Proposed Budget exhibited from Thursday 22 May 2025 to Thursday 5 June 2025; nine (9) written submissions received by 5 June 2025 and considered at the 11 June 2025 Special Meeting.
    • Adoption resolution (Item 7.1): Council adopted the 2025/26 Annual Budget (Attachment 1) for Section 94 purposes.
    • Differential rates (12-month period from 1 July 2025 to 30 June 2026), cents/$CIV:
      • Commercial & Industrial: 0.388052
      • Commercial & Industrial Vacant Land: 0.517402
      • Extractive Industry: 0.807147
      • Farm: 0.201787
      • General Rate: 0.258701
      • Vacant Land General: 0.517402
      • Vacant Land FZ and RCZ: 0.258701
      • Vacant Land GRZ: 0.517402
      • Residential Retirement Villages: 0.232831
    • Service charges adopted (Section 162):
      • Waste Management: $113.00 per rateable property
      • Domestic Waste Collection: $253.00 per rateable property
      • Kerbside Green waste: $99.00 per rateable property
      • State Landfill Levy Charge: $79.00 per rateable property
    • Fees and charges: Council adopted “fees and charges as attached” (Attachment referenced within the resolution).
    • Rate increase: The budget included a 3.0% average rate increase (aligned with the Fair Go Rates System cap).
    • Public availability: Council resolved to make the 2025/26 Budget publicly available on its website.
    • Voting outcome: Motion carried 5/4 (Mayor declared the motion carried).
  • Impact: Ratepayers receive clarity on how Council will fund services and infrastructure for 2025/26, including how rates differ by land category and the level of waste-related service charges.
  • Next steps:
    • Public notice of adoption scheduled for 26 June 2025.
    • Budget will be published on Council’s website following adoption.
    • Following adoption, responses to submitters are to be provided (as required by the adopted process).

Set 2025/26 service charges and implemented a municipal charge of $360 per tenement

  • Context: Alongside adopting the Annual Budget, Council needed to set statutory service charges (waste-related) and determine whether to include a municipal charge as part of the 2025/26 rating framework.
  • Details:
    • Service charges adopted under Section 162 (2025/26):
      • Waste Management: $113.00
      • Domestic Waste Collection: $253.00
      • Kerbside Green waste: $99.00
      • State Landfill Levy Charge: $79.00
    • Municipal charge:
      • Implemented a municipal charge of $360 per tenement as part of the 2025/26 Budget.
    • Decision timing: Resolved within Item 7.1 “Draft Budget 2025/26 – Adoption” at the 25 June 2025 meeting.
  • Impact: Residents and other ratepayers will experience defined, consistent waste service pricing and will also be subject to the municipal charge per tenement, affecting overall rates notices for 2025/26.
  • Next steps:
    • Charges will be applied through the 2025/26 rating notices for the period 1 July 2025 to 30 June 2026.
    • Further review of the revenue strategy for future municipal charge settings was directed separately under Item 7.3 (Revenue and Rating Plan).

Adopted the 2025–2035 Long Term Financial Plan

  • Context: The Local Government Act 2020 requires Council to develop and adopt a 10-year (long-term) financial plan by 31 October 2025, with a public exhibition and submissions process.
  • Details:
    • Meeting: 25 June 2025 (Item 7.2).
    • Statutory timing: Plan required to be adopted by 31 October 2025.
    • Public exhibition: Proposed Long Term Financial Plan exhibited from Thursday 22 May 2025 to Thursday 5 June 2025.
    • Submissions: One (1) written submission received by 5 June 2025; considered at the 11 June 2025 Special Meeting.
    • Adoption resolution: Council adopted the Long Term Financial Plan (Attachment 1) for Section 94 purposes.
    • Submission considered: Oliver – Asphalt berms for BMX Track (noted as already reflected in the 2025/26 Draft Budget; estimated cost $180K).
    • Public notice: Adoption public notice scheduled for 26 June 2025 (per timetable in the report).
  • Impact: Establishes a 10-year fiscal framework to guide Council’s budgeting, help avoid unsustainable funding spikes, and support sustainable delivery of services and assets.
  • Next steps:
    • Provide a response to the submitter following adoption.
    • Use the LTFP to inform ongoing annual budgets and future iterations (noted as a rolling update expectation).

Adopted the 2025–2029 Council Plan

  • Context: Council needed a new four-year strategic plan (Council Plan 2025–2029) to guide priorities and service delivery, following public exhibition and consideration of community submissions.
  • Details:
    • Meeting: 25 June 2025 (Item 7.4).
    • Public exhibition: Draft Council Plan 2025–2029 exhibited from 8 May 2025 to 5 June 2025.
    • Submissions: Four (4) submissions received by the end of the exhibition period; considered at the 11 June 2025 Special Meeting.
    • Adoption resolution: Council adopted the Council Plan 2025–2029 (Attachment 1).
    • Submissions and outcomes: No changes were made to the draft plan content following consideration of submissions (typographical/formatting updates only noted as part of the finalisation process).
    • Communication: Following adoption, the document is to be placed on Council’s website.
  • Impact: Provides a clear strategic direction for 2025–2029, aligning service delivery priorities with community needs and linking to the budget and financial planning documents.
  • Next steps:
    • Publish the adopted Council Plan on Council’s website after adoption.
    • Progress delivery through further plans and actions set out under the Council Plan.

Adopted the 2025–2035 Asset Plan and directed publication on Council’s website

  • Context: The Local Government Act 2020 requires Council to have an adopted 10-year Asset Plan to guide lifecycle management of infrastructure assets.
  • Details:
    • Meeting: 25 June 2025 (Item 8.1).
    • Adoption resolution:
      • Council adopted the Asset Plan (2025–2035) attached to the report.
      • Council requested a copy of the Asset Plan be placed on Council’s website.
    • Asset base scale: Council manages over $1.03B in physical infrastructure assets.
    • Asset categories and current register values (as stated in the report):
      • Transport: $489 million
      • Buildings: $132.8 million
      • Stormwater drainage: $171.9 million
      • Parks and open spaces: $23.8 million
    • Exhibition/submissions: Draft Asset Plan was publicly exhibited (noted as 9 May to 6 June 2025); no submissions were received relating to the Draft Asset Plan 2025–2035.
  • Impact: Strengthens long-term planning for maintenance, renewal, upgrade/expansion, and disposal decisions, supporting reliable service delivery and better asset lifecycle outcomes for the community.
  • Next steps:
    • Publish the adopted Asset Plan on Council’s website in June 2025 (as directed).
    • Continue asset lifecycle management using the adopted plan as the guiding framework.

Adopted the Revenue and Rating Plan; to review revenue strategy and investigate a municipal charge for 2026/27

  • Context: The Local Government Act 2020 requires Council to adopt a Revenue and Rating Plan by 30 June 2025 for at least the next four financial years, including a public exhibition and submissions process.
  • Details:
    • Meeting: 25 June 2025 (Item 7.3).
    • Statutory requirement: Adopt Revenue and Rating Plan by 30 June 2025 (Section 93 referenced in the report).
    • Public exhibition: Proposed Revenue and Rating Plan exhibited from Thursday 22 May 2025 to Thursday 5 June 2025.
    • Submissions: One (1) written submission received by 5 June 2025; considered at the 11 June 2025 Special Meeting.
    • Adoption resolution:
      • Council adopted the Revenue and Rating Plan (Attachment 1) for Section 94 purposes.
      • Directed a review of the Revenue and Rating Strategy “as soon as possible” to consider all models/options/alternatives, including possible introduction of a municipal charge for the 2026/27 financial year.
      • Directed community consultation on the Revenue and Rating Strategy.
    • Submission considered: Craig Woods – “Repetition in Documents” (noted as a governance/compliance matter; no direct changes indicated in the plan adoption section).
    • Public notice: Adoption public notice scheduled for 26 June 2025 (per timetable).
  • Impact: Locks in the formal framework for how Council raises revenue and distributes the rating burden, while also committing Council to reassess future revenue mechanisms (including municipal charge options) with community input.
  • Next steps:
    • Conduct the Revenue and Rating Strategy review “as soon as possible.”
    • Undertake community consultation on the Revenue and Rating Strategy.
    • Consider municipal charge options for 2026/27 as part of the 2026/27 budget process (reinforced by the separate “investigation of a municipal charge” item at the same meeting).

Community Impact

  • Ratepayers (all properties): 2025/26 annual budget adopted with a 3.0% average rate increase effective 1 July 2025–30 June 2026
  • Waste service users (rateable properties): Waste Management service charge set at $113, Domestic Waste Collection at $253, Kerbside Green waste at $99, and State Landfill Levy charge at $79 for 2025/26
  • Tenants/tenement owners: Municipal charge of $360 per tenement to be implemented as part of the 2025/26 budget
  • Commercial/industrial and extractive landowners: Differential rate cents/$CIV adopted for 2025/26 (including Commercial & Industrial and Extractive Industry rates), affecting annual rates payable for these land classes
  • Residents across the Shire: Council Plan 2025–2029 adopted, setting the priorities and service direction for 2025–2029 (including transport, environment/wildlife, and community services via subsequent action plans)
  • Community members (future budgets): Council will investigate a municipal charge of up to 20% during the 2026/27 budget process and undertake related community consultation on the revenue/rating strategy

Other Notable Items

  • Community requested an in-house “Bush Crew” for biodiversity management and weed/feral control.
  • Submissions sought EV charging stations; council noted no current budget funding but will assess demand/role.
  • Darley Neighbourhood House asked for increased funding; officers to review fees/charges and operational funding.
  • Council Plan submissions raised cat containment, road/truck bypass concerns, and wildlife-related environmental priorities.
  • Future agenda: investigate a municipal charge of up to 20% during the 2026/27 budget process.

Tech & Innovation Notes

  • Online/digital public consultation & online presence

    • Budget, Long-Term Financial Plan, Council Plan, and Asset Plan documents to be made publicly available on Council’s website.
    • Council Plan consultation via “Have Your Say” webpage, with submissions via webpage, email or post.

  • Digital services / platforms (limited mention)

    • Use of Council’s Have Your Say online submission webpage for community consultation.

  • Smart/tech-adjacent infrastructure

    • Community submissions requesting electric vehicle (EV) charging stations (potential installation not included in the draft budget; estimated cost noted per site).

Receive and consider one submission for the Long Term Financial Plan at 25 June 2025

  • Receive nine submissions and consider them for adoption of the 2025/26 Annual Budget
  • Receive one submission and consider it for adoption of the Draft Revenue & Rating Plan
  • Receive four submissions and consider them for adoption of the Council Plan 2025–2029
  • and 2 more

6 decisions · 9 min read
Official minutes of the Moorabool Shire Council meeting on 11 June 2025

AI-generated summary. Written by a language model from the official minutes. Check the source before you quote or rely on it.

Key Decisions & Outcomes

  • Receive and consider one submission for the Long Term Financial Plan at 25 June 2025.
  • Receive nine submissions and consider them for adoption of the 2025/26 Annual Budget.
  • Receive one submission and consider it for adoption of the Draft Revenue & Rating Plan.
  • Receive four submissions and consider them for adoption of the Council Plan 2025–2029.
  • Endorse proceeding to adoption of the Draft Asset Plan 2025–2035 at 25 June 2025.
  • Refer unrelated Asset Plan submission to 2025/26 Annual Budget consultation for response.

Detailed Descriptions

Receive and consider one submission for the Long Term Financial Plan at 25 June 2025

  • Context: Council’s Long Term Financial Plan (LTFP) was publicly exhibited to meet statutory requirements under the Local Government Act 2020, allowing community submissions to be heard before adoption.
  • Details:
    • Exhibition period: 22 May 2025 to 5 June 2025 (submissions closed 5 June 2025 at 5.00pm).
    • Submissions received: 1.
    • Submitter: Oliver.
    • Main points: “Concrete Berms for BMX Track”.
    • Council action (11 June 2025 resolution): Council receives the submission and will consider it at the Special Meeting on Wednesday 25 June 2025 for LTFP adoption.
    • Post-adoption requirement: Council will provide a response to the submitter following adoption.
  • Impact: Ensures the BMX track berm proposal is formally considered in Council’s long-term financial planning, potentially influencing future maintenance/capital priorities and community recreation outcomes.
  • Next steps:
    • 25 June 2025: Council considers the submission as part of the LTFP adoption process.
    • After adoption: Council publishes a response to Oliver and continues statutory publication (notice in local newspapers and posting on Council’s website).

Receive nine submissions and consider them for adoption of the 2025/26 Annual Budget

  • Context: Council followed the required public exhibition process for the Draft 2025/26 Annual Budget, with submissions to be heard prior to adoption.
  • Details:
    • Exhibition period: 22 May 2025 to 5 June 2025 (submissions closed 5 June 2025 at 5.00pm).
    • Submissions received: 9 written submissions.
    • Submitters and key themes:
      1. Tanner Hill – request for an in-house “Bush Crew” for asset/biodiversity management and community engagement.
      2. Daniel Emmerson – install Electric Vehicle (EV) charging stations in Bacchus Marsh and surrounding areas.
      3. Darley Neighbourhood House & Learning – request review/increase of annual funding (noted funding has remained at $10,557.06 since 2018).
      4. Craig Woods – “Various Expenses” including reducing costs/wages, evaluating library/art collection value, and questions about staff superannuation/backlog and aged care support.
      5. Bacchus Marsh BMX Club Inc – support for “Concreting the Berms”; notes $5,000+ spent in 2025 on sand and 500+ volunteer hours.
      6. Chris Sharkey – question about a 3% rate increase and how it aligns with support for primary production under drought/ESVF/cost-of-living pressures.
      7. Oliver – request for “Asphalt berms for BMX Track.”
      8. Jacob White – Wallace Recreation Reserve Oval Redevelopment; Council requested a business case for a contribution of $709,060 ex-GST; aims for readiness for the 2025 season and links to the club’s 100th Year Anniversary.
      9. Gordon Emmerson – request EV chargers.
    • Council action (11 June 2025 resolution): Council receives all nine submissions and will consider them at the Special Meeting on Wednesday 25 June 2025 for adoption of the Annual Budget.
    • Post-adoption requirement: Council will provide a response to each submitter.
  • Impact: Directly informs how Council allocates funding across environment/biodiversity, EV infrastructure, community services (neighbourhood house funding), recreation facilities (BMX and oval redevelopment), and rate impacts.
  • Next steps:
    • 25 June 2025: Council considers the nine submissions as part of the Annual Budget adoption.
    • After adoption: Council issues responses to all nine submitters and proceeds with statutory publication (local newspaper notice and website posting).

Receive one submission and consider it for adoption of the Draft Revenue & Rating Plan

  • Context: Council exhibited the Draft Revenue & Rating Plan to allow public submissions and required Council consideration prior to adoption.
  • Details:
    • Exhibition period: 22 May 2025 to 5 June 2025 (submissions closed 5 June 2025 at 5.00pm).
    • Submissions received: 1.
    • Submitter: Craig Woods.
    • Main points:
      • “Repetition with Budget Document” (request to review duplication).
      • Request to reduce red tape/wasting of resources.
    • Council action (11 June 2025 resolution): Council receives the submission and will consider it at the Special Meeting on Wednesday 25 June 2025 for adoption of the Revenue & Rating Plan.
    • Post-adoption requirement: Council will provide a response to the submitter.
  • Impact: Improves transparency and clarity of the rating/revenue documentation and may reduce perceived administrative duplication for ratepayers.
  • Next steps:
    • 25 June 2025: Council considers the submission during the adoption of the Draft Revenue & Rating Plan.
    • After adoption: Council responds to Craig Woods and proceeds with publication requirements (local newspaper notice and website posting).

Receive four submissions and consider them for adoption of the Council Plan 2025–2029

  • Context: Following the election period, Council developed a new four-year Council Plan and ran a public exhibition period to collect community submissions before adoption.
  • Details:
    • Draft Council Plan consultation/exhibition: 8 May 2025 to 5 June 2025 (submissions closed 5 June 2025 at 5.00pm).
    • Submissions received: 4.
    • Submitters and main points:
      1. Terry Delahunty – request that mining be listed among potentially emerging industries; highlights potential for remediation of tailings and employment/community benefits.
      2. Anonymous – road safety concerns, urgent review of Road Development Strategy 2027, truck routing away from main roads in Bacchus Marsh, and Ballan footpath safety issues (e.g., Simpson Street section without footpath).
      3. Geraldine Bagwell – wildlife concerns, impact of cats; references statewide cat containment strategy and feels the plan is vague.
      4. Ruth Baas – transport concerns, need for truck bypass information/action (e.g., Gisborne Rd), and calls for Darley upgrading and a shopping precinct.
    • Council action (11 June 2025 resolution): Council receives all four submissions and will consider them at the Special Meeting on Wednesday 25 June 2025 for adoption of the Council Plan 2025–2029.
    • Post-adoption requirement: Council will provide a response to each submitter.
  • Impact: Helps shape Council’s priorities and performance direction over 2025–2029, particularly around transport safety, wildlife/cat management, and economic/community development framing (including mining).
  • Next steps:
    • 25 June 2025: Council finalises and adopts the Council Plan 2025–2029 considering the four submissions.
    • After adoption: Council responds to each submitter and proceeds with publication.

Endorse proceeding to adoption of the Draft Asset Plan 2025–2035 at 25 June 2025

  • Context: The Draft Asset Plan 2025–2035 was publicly exhibited as required by the Local Government Act 2020, and Council now seeks endorsement to proceed to formal adoption.
  • Details:
    • Draft Asset Plan exhibited: 9 May 2025 to 6 June 2025.
    • Submissions related to the Draft Asset Plan: None received.
    • However, one submission was received during the process but was not related to the Draft Asset Plan; it is to be referred to the 2025/26 Annual Budget consultation for response.
    • Asset register scale (context in report): Council manages over $1.03B in physical infrastructure assets.
    • Asset categories and current register values (as listed in the report):
      • Transport: $489 million
      • Buildings: $132.8 million
      • Stormwater drainage: $171.9 million
      • Parks & open spaces: $23.8 million
    • Council action (11 June 2025 resolution): Council recommends the final Asset Plan report be presented for adoption at the Special Meeting on Wednesday 25 June 2025.
  • Impact: Confirms asset management planning can proceed without amendments from Asset Plan-specific submissions, supporting continuity of long-term infrastructure lifecycle management.
  • Next steps:
    • 25 June 2025: Council considers and adopts the Draft Asset Plan 2025–2035.
    • If a non-related submission is received (not Asset Plan-related): it is handled via the referral process (see next item).

Refer unrelated Asset Plan submission to 2025/26 Annual Budget consultation for response

  • Context: During the Asset Plan exhibition, Council received a submission, but it was determined to be unrelated to the Draft Asset Plan 2025–2035 content.
  • Details:
    • Asset Plan exhibition period: 9 May 2025 to 6 June 2025.
    • Asset Plan-related submissions: 0.
    • Unrelated submission: 1 submission not related to the Draft Asset Plan 2025–2035.
    • Referral instruction: This unrelated submission is to be referred to the 2025/26 Annual Budget consultation for response.
  • Impact: Ensures community feedback is directed to the correct planning process (budget priorities rather than asset plan documentation), improving the likelihood of an actionable response.
  • Next steps:
    • During/for the 2025/26 Annual Budget consideration process (leading to adoption on 25 June 2025): Council’s budget consultation responses will address the referred submission.

Community Impact

  • Ratepayers (all residents): Adoption of the 2025/26 Annual Budget and Revenue & Rating Plan, including a proposed 3% rate increase that may raise household and business costs
  • Darley residents: Potential review of Council funding for Darley Neighbourhood House following a request to increase its annual allocation to meet growing demand
  • BMX users and families (Bacchus Marsh): Consideration of capital works to concrete/asphalt berms for the Bacchus Marsh BMX track, which could improve safety and reduce volunteer maintenance burden
  • Local sports community (Wallace Recreation Reserve): Possible funding contribution toward oval redevelopment at Wallace Recreation Reserve to reduce wet-weather deterioration and support training/match continuity (including senior women’s recruitment)
  • Environment and park users (shire-wide, including river reserves): Consideration of an in-house “Bush Crew” approach to improve reserve maintenance, weed/feral control, track/path upkeep, and community engagement/planting activities
  • Road users and pedestrians (Bacchus Marsh, Ballan, Darley, Gisborne Rd areas): Council Plan 2025–2029 may incorporate responses to submissions about road safety, truck movements/bypasses, and footpath gaps (potentially affecting future transport and infrastructure priorities)

Other Notable Items

  • Community submission to fund concrete/asphalt berms for BMX track improvements.
  • Request for an in-house “Bush Crew” for biodiversity, weeds, paths, and reserve maintenance.
  • Concerns raised about EV charging stations availability in Bacchus Marsh/surrounds.
  • Council Plan submissions: road safety urgency, truck bypass needs, and wildlife/cat containment issues.
  • Wallace Recreation Reserve oval redevelopment business case prioritised for 2025 season and 100th anniversary.

Tech & Innovation Notes

  • Council consultation and publication processes conducted via digital channels (e.g., “have your say page,” email, and Council website) for the Draft Long Term Financial Plan, Annual Budget, Revenue & Rating Plan, and Draft Council Plan.
  • Mention of “Council’s social media” used to promote the Draft Council Plan consultation.
  • Proposal/feedback regarding EV charging stations (electric vehicle charging infrastructure).

Approve March 2025 community grants allocation totalling $44,036

  • Approve Community Asset Committee nominees and transition to new term memberships
  • Approve appointment of eight members to the Moorabool Environment and Sustainability Advisory Committee
  • Receive and note the March 2025 Quarterly Financial Report and Audit/Risk minutes
  • and 2 more

6 decisions · 11 min read
Official minutes of the Moorabool Shire Council meeting on 4 June 2025

AI-generated summary. Written by a language model from the official minutes. Check the source before you quote or rely on it.

Key Decisions & Outcomes

  • Approve March 2025 community grants allocation totalling $44,036.
  • Approve Community Asset Committee nominees and transition to new term memberships.
  • Approve appointment of eight members to the Moorabool Environment and Sustainability Advisory Committee.
  • Receive and note the March 2025 Quarterly Financial Report and Audit/Risk minutes.
  • Receive and note the Capital Improvement Program quarterly report to 31 March 2025.
  • Write to State/Federal Ministers on level crossing safety, Western Freeway litter cleanup, and peri-urban funding support.

Detailed Descriptions

Approve March 2025 community grants allocation totalling $44,036

  • Context: Council received 17 community grant applications for the March 2025 round across five categories and assessed them via a community grants assessment panel. Thirteen applications met the recommended criteria for funding.
  • Details:
    • Council meeting: Wednesday, 4 June 2025
    • Grant round: March 2025 (opened 1 March; closed 31 March 2025)
    • Applications received: 17 (Community Arts & Culture: 4; Community Strengthening: 8; Community Events: 2; Community Development: 0; Sustainability & Environmental Engagement: 3)
    • Funding requested vs available:
      • Requested: $58,036
      • Available: $115,954
    • Recommended allocation approved: $44,036 total to 13 applicants
    • Approved funding breakdown:
      • Community Strengthening Grants: $27,200
        • Ballan Racecourse and Recreation Reserve Committee – Completion of All Abilities Toilet
        • Wombat Regional Arts Network – Celebrating Wombat Arts 25th Year
        • Moonlite Theatre – Stage Backdrop Curtain System for Enhanced Performances
        • Ballan and District Probus Club – Multimedia Projector for Club Meetings
        • Springbank Football Netball Club Inc. – New Furniture and Trolley
        • Great Dividing Trail Association Inc. – Lerderderg Track Walk or Ride Guide
        • Lions Club of Ballan – Ballan Lions BBQ Trailer
      • Sustainability and Environmental Engagement Grants: $7,836
        • Pentland Hills Landcare Group Inc. – Control Serrated Tussock Fund Raising Show
        • Ballan Arboretum Group – Ballan Historic Tree Walk – Voiceover
        • Bacchus Marsh Platypus Alliance Inc. – Connecting Diverse Communities with Local Platypus and River Health
      • Community Arts and Culture Grants: $6,000
        • Mr Jason (Broni) Lisle – Introduction to Improv Acting and Comedy
        • Ms Cat Moser – Your Stage Open Mic
      • Community Events Grants: $3,000
        • Unite Foundation – Diwali 2025
  • Impact: Directs funding to local not-for-profit projects that build healthy, inclusive and connected neighbourhoods, while supporting arts, events, strengthening initiatives, and sustainability outcomes across Moorabool.
  • Next steps:
    • Successful applicants to be notified by letter/email following Council’s decision (June 2025).
    • Grant agreements/terms to be issued and projects monitored through to completion and acquittal.

Approve Community Asset Committee nominees and transition to new term memberships

  • Context: Community Asset Committees (formerly Section 86 Committees of Management) must be reviewed and reappointed to align with each Council Term (four years). Council undertook an Expression of Interest process and community meetings to confirm support for nominees.
  • Details:
    • Council meeting: Wednesday, 4 June 2025
    • Committees covered (delegated CACs):
      • Blacksmith’s Cottage and Forge
      • Dunnstown Recreation Reserve
      • Elaine Recreation Reserve
      • Gordon Public Hall
      • Greendale Reserves
      • Lal Lal Soldiers Memorial Hall
      • Millbrook Community Centre
      • Navigators Community Centre
      • Wallace Public Hall
      • Wallace Recreation Reserve
    • Resolutions approved:
      1. Approve nominees in Attachment 1 to create new term membership for each CAC.
      2. Approve cessation of current CACs appointed in 2020 and commence transition to newly formed CACs.
      3. CEO to write to serving CAC members to thank them for their services over the previous term.
      4. CEO authorised to issue an Instrument of Delegation to each CAC.
      5. Council officers to notify newly confirmed CAC members of their appointments.
  • Impact: Ensures community-managed facilities continue with appropriate governance, delegated authority, and continuity of local stewardship aligned to the new Council term.
  • Next steps:
    • CEO issues Instruments of Delegation to each CAC.
    • Serving members receive thank-you correspondence.
    • Newly appointed members are formally notified and supported through induction/role requirements.

Approve appointment of eight members to the Moorabool Environment and Sustainability Advisory Committee

  • Context: The Moorabool Environment and Sustainability Advisory Committee (MESAC) provides guidance on conservation, biodiversity, environment, pest/weed programs, waste and circular economy, water quality, and sustainability. Council ran an Expression of Interest process and phone screening.
  • Details:
    • Council meeting: Wednesday, 4 June 2025
    • MESAC nominations:
      • Nominations received: 9
      • Recommended for appointment: 8 (one withdrew during phone screening due to inability to uphold ToR commitment)
    • Approved appointees (as per Terms of Reference):
      1. David Marnie
      2. Dominique Wisniewski
      3. Jodie Valpied
      4. Julie Keating
      5. Judith Bailey
      6. Louise Salt
      7. Rose De la Cruz
      8. Rhonda Priest
  • Impact: Strengthens Council’s advisory capacity with local expertise to guide environment and sustainability actions, helping ensure community knowledge informs policy and program delivery.
  • Next steps:
    • Appointments finalised following Council approval.
    • Committee members to participate in onboarding/induction processes consistent with confidentiality and ToR expectations.

Receive and note the March 2025 Quarterly Financial Report and Audit/Risk minutes

  • Context: Quarterly reporting to Council is required under the Local Government Act 2020 to inform Councillors of financial performance for the relevant period. Council also receives Audit and Risk Advisory Committee minutes for transparency and governance oversight.
  • Details:
    • Council meeting: Wednesday, 4 June 2025
    • 12.1 Quarterly Financial Report – March 2025:
      • Reporting period: 1 July 2024 to 31 March 2025
      • Year-to-date adjusted underlying result: surplus of $14.112 million
        • $0.554 million unfavourable vs budget
      • Capital works expenditure (year-to-date): $24.066 million
        • $4.143 million less than budget (timing/deferrals)
      • Cash balance at 31 March 2025: $19.877 million
      • Resolution: Council receive and note the report (Attachment 1)
    • 12.2 Audit and Risk Advisory Committee minutes:
      • Committee meeting date: Wednesday, 19 February 2025
      • Council representatives: Cr Moira Berry, Cr Paul Tatchell, Cr Rod Ward (Sub)
      • Resolution: Council receive and note the summary of minutes
  • Impact: Provides Councillors and the community with accountable financial performance information and reinforces governance through documented audit/risk advisory oversight.
  • Next steps:
    • Quarterly financial information is retained for ongoing monitoring and budget forecasting.
    • Audit/Risk minutes are used to inform Council’s governance considerations and any follow-up actions.

Receive and note the Capital Improvement Program quarterly report to 31 March 2025

  • Context: Council reports quarterly on progress of the 2024–2025 Capital Improvement Program (CIP) to track delivery against schedule and budget. This supports performance monitoring of major infrastructure and capital works.
  • Details:
    • Council meeting: Wednesday, 4 June 2025
    • Report coverage date: to 31 March 2025
    • CIP delivery overview:
      • Total projects reported: 63
      • Delivery units: Engineering Services (35), Major Projects (22), other units (6)
      • Completion status at 31 March 2025:
        • Complete: 52.4% (20/63)
        • In progress/under construction: 20.6% (13/63)
        • Awarded/waiting commencement: 9.5% (6/63)
        • Design/tender/quote stages: remaining proportion (including documentation/design prep and tender/quote)
        • Not commenced/on hold: 6.3% (4/63) plus additional “Not Commenced” (1/63)
      • Expenditure at 31 March 2025: $21.51M
      • Current budget: $42.54M
      • Anticipated carry forward/on hold: $9.54M
    • Projects noted as “On Hold”:
      • Werribee Vale Road Pump Station Upgrade (on hold—advice from Southern Rural Water)
      • Connor Court Drainage (activation subject to Melbourne Water direction)
      • Woolpack Road Bridge (Parwan Ck) (subject to successful grant funding)
      • Lyndhurst Street Footpath (procurement suspended pending grant outcome for shared path in Gordon)
    • Resolution: Council receive and note the CIP Quarterly Report (to 31 March 2025)
  • Impact: Improves transparency on infrastructure delivery progress and helps manage community expectations regarding timing, carry-forwards, and project scheduling.
  • Next steps:
    • Continued project monitoring through the remainder of the financial year, with updates reported quarterly to Council.
    • Delivery updates to be communicated through Council’s regular channels (e.g., Moorabool Matters / Moorabool News / infrastructure updates).

Write to State/Federal Ministers on level crossing safety, Western Freeway litter cleanup, and peri-urban funding support

  • Context: Council adopted three Notices of Motion directing correspondence to relevant Ministers to address safety, environmental amenity, and funding pressures affecting Moorabool and peri-urban councils.
  • Details:
    • Council meeting: Wednesday, 4 June 2025
    • 15.1 Level crossing safety and congestion – Bacchus Marsh Train Station
      • Moved by: Cr Steven Venditti-Taylor; Seconded by: Cr Jarrod Bingham
      • Ministerial correspondence to ask for plans for level crossing removal at:
        • Parwan Road and Grant Street, Bacchus Marsh
      • Ministers:
        • The Hon Gabrielle Williams MP (Victorian Minister for Transport Infrastructure and Public & Active Transport)
        • The Hon Catherine King MP (Federal Minister for Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development and Local Government)
    • 15.2 Urgent clean up – Western Freeway litter and illegal dumping
      • Moved by: Cr Rod Ward; Seconded by: Cr Steven Venditti-Taylor
      • Ministerial correspondence to The Hon Melissa Horne MP (Minister for Roads & Road Safety)
      • Requests:
        • Urgent clean up and repair of road barriers along the Western Freeway between Ballarat and Melton
        • Implement more regular clean ups going forward
    • 15.3 Increased support for Moorabool and fast-growing peri-urban councils
      • Moved by: Cr Rod Ward; Seconded by: Cr Moira Berry
      • Ministerial correspondence to The Hon Jacinta Allen MP (Premier of Victoria)
      • Requests include:
        1. Create growth funds for rapid-growth councils (including peri-urban councils) to support timely infrastructure delivery via works-in-kind and additional financial contributions
        2. Reinstate the Council Planning Flying Squad to address planning backlogs
        3. Partner with universities/TAFEs for traineeships/apprenticeships in high-demand roles (e.g., urban planning, civil engineering)
        4. Update disaster recovery funding to include betterment funding
        5. Simplify grant application processes for fair competition
        6. Provide additional grant writing support for smaller/less-resourced (including peri-urban) councils
  • Impact: Elevates Moorabool’s priorities to the State and Federal level, seeking action on transport safety, community amenity, and sustainable funding for growth-related infrastructure and planning capacity.
  • Next steps:
    • Council correspondence prepared and issued to the named Ministers following the 4 June 2025 resolutions.
    • Officers to track responses and report back to Council as required.

Community Impact

  • Moorabool residents (community facilities users): Funding for upgrades and equipment at local venues (e.g., all-abilities toilet at Ballan Racecourse & Recreation Reserve; stage backdrop system; projector and furniture support for community groups) improving accessibility and event/community use
  • Ballan, Bacchus Marsh, and wider shire residents (arts, events, wellbeing): New and expanded community arts, cultural and event activities funded through the March 2025 grants round (e.g., Wombat Arts celebrations; improv/comedy training; Diwali 2025) increasing local programming and participation
  • Environment & landcare participants and volunteers: Sustainability and environmental engagement projects funded across the shire (e.g., control of serrated tussock; historic tree walk voiceover; local platypus and river health engagement) supporting on-ground conservation and awareness activities
  • Local community groups and volunteers (facility governance): New Community Asset Committee memberships and transition to newly formed committees for multiple community-managed sites, affecting how local halls/reserves/centres are managed and decisions are made
  • Residents near worksites (roads, bridges, libraries, recreation facilities): Capital Improvement Program projects continue with some carry-forwards into next financial year (e.g., Bacchus Marsh Racecourse pavilion, Ballan Library/Plaza, Woolpack Road Bridge), influencing timelines for upgrades and access
  • Bacchus Marsh and Western Freeway users (safety, congestion, cleanliness): Council will write to state/federal ministers regarding level crossing removal and congestion at Bacchus Marsh Station and will request urgent cleanup/repairs for litter and damaged barriers on the Western Freeway, impacting perceived safety, traffic conditions, and roadside amenity

Other Notable Items

  • Community grants March round: 17 applications; 13 recommended for $44,036 funding.
  • Community Asset Committee membership nominations sought via EOI; transition to new term underway.
  • Moorabool Environment and Sustainability Advisory Committee: 8 community nominees recommended after one withdrew.
  • Quarterly financial report noted $14.112m adjusted underlying surplus; cash balance $19.877m.
  • Urgent business: concerns over Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund replacing Fire Services Property Levy.

Tech & Innovation Notes

  • Meeting livestreaming (online recording/stream of Council proceedings)
  • Council website and social media channels used to promote programs and collect expressions of interest (e.g., MESAC nominations; Community Grants promotion)
  • Online participation/support mentioned for grant writing workshops / drop-in support sessions (“Online and in person”)
  • Use of email/online communications for community engagement (e.g., direct email, promotional flyers, electronic roadside sign; notification of successful grant applicants via email)
  • Community grants include technology-related items (e.g., “Multimedia Projector for Club Meetings”; “Multimedia Projector” and “Voiceover” for a community tree walk)

Rescinded the 14 May 2025 resolution on the proposed 2025/26 Annual Budget

  • Reinstated officer recommendation to place the Draft 2025/26 Budget on public exhibition
  • Approved public notice, public inspection access, and submission period until 5pm 5 June
  • Approved public submissions on proposed rates and charges until 5pm 5 June
  • and 2 more

6 decisions · 6 min read
Official minutes of the Moorabool Shire Council meeting on 21 May 2025

AI-generated summary. Written by a language model from the official minutes. Check the source before you quote or rely on it.

Key Decisions & Outcomes

  • Rescinded the 14 May 2025 resolution on the proposed 2025/26 Annual Budget.
  • Reinstated officer recommendation to place the Draft 2025/26 Budget on public exhibition.
  • Approved public notice, public inspection access, and submission period until 5pm 5 June.
  • Approved public submissions on proposed rates and charges until 5pm 5 June.
  • Scheduled a special council submissions meeting for 11 June 2025 at 6pm.
  • Endorsed intent to adopt the 2025/26 Annual Budget on 25 June 2025 (venue to be determined).

Detailed Descriptions

Rescinded the 14 May 2025 resolution on the proposed 2025/26 Annual Budget

  • Context: At the Special Council Meeting held on 14 May 2025, Council considered Item 7.3 relating to the Proposed 2025/26 Annual Budget. On 21 May 2025, Councillor Jarrod Bingham moved a rescission motion to reverse that earlier decision.
  • Details:
    • Moved by: Cr Jarrod Bingham
    • Seconded by: Cr Rod Ward
    • Motion: The resolution for Item 7.3 (Consideration of the Proposed 2025/26 Annual Budget) from the 14 May 2025 Special Meeting was to be rescinded.
    • Result: Motion CARRIED at the 21 May 2025 Special Council Meeting (held at 3.00pm at Council Chambers, 15 Stead Street, Ballan & Online).
  • Impact: This removed the effect of the 14 May 2025 budget decision, allowing Council to return to the officer-recommended process for public exhibition and community consultation.
  • Next steps: Council proceeded to reinstate the officer recommendation (public exhibition, notices, inspection access, and submission timeframes) as set out in the rescission motion.

Reinstated officer recommendation to place the Draft 2025/26 Budget on public exhibition

  • Context: The rescission motion not only reversed the 14 May 2025 decision, but also directed Council to reinstate the original officer recommendation for the Draft 2025/26 Annual Budget process.
  • Details:
    • The rescission motion required that the original officer recommendation be put back to Council for consideration, specifically:
      • Place the Draft 2025/26 Annual Budget on public exhibition (in accordance with section 94 of the Local Government Act 2020).
      • Authorise the Chief Executive Officer to give public notice and make the Draft Budget available for public inspection.
  • Impact: Residents and stakeholders regained the opportunity to review the draft budget and provide feedback before Council finalises the Annual Budget.
  • Next steps: Council approved the public notice/inspection and set the submission period and dates for consideration of community feedback at a later special meeting.

Approved public notice, public inspection access, and submission period until 5pm 5 June

  • Context: After rescinding the prior decision, Council adopted the consultation pathway required under the Local Government Act, including public notification, access to the draft documents, and a defined submission window.
  • Details:
    • Public notice and inspection:
      • CEO authorised to give public notice and make the Draft 2025/26 Budget available for public inspection.
    • Submission period:
      • Submissions and feedback on the 2025/26 Proposed Budget were invited until 5pm on Thursday 5 June.
  • Impact: Establishes a clear, time-bound consultation period so community members can meaningfully engage with the proposed budget before it is considered for adoption.
  • Next steps: The submissions period closes at 5pm on 5 June, after which Council schedules a dedicated submissions meeting to consider input.

Approved public submissions on proposed rates and charges until 5pm 5 June

  • Context: Community consultation on the Annual Budget also includes feedback on the composition of proposed rates and charges, which is a key component of the budget decision-making process.
  • Details:
    • Submissions invited on:
      • The composition of proposed rates and charges included in the Draft 2025/26 Annual Budget
    • Deadline:
      • Until 5pm on Thursday 5 June
  • Impact: Residents are able to directly influence how Council structures rates and charges, improving transparency and accountability in budget development.
  • Next steps: Submissions on rates and charges are to be considered alongside other budget submissions at the scheduled special submissions meeting on 11 June 2025.

Scheduled a special council submissions meeting for 11 June 2025 at 6pm

  • Context: Council needed a formal forum to consider community feedback received during the public submission period.
  • Details:
    • Meeting type: Special Meeting of Council (submissions consideration)
    • Date/time: Wednesday 11 June 2025 at 6pm
    • Location: Council Chambers, 15 Stead Street, Ballan
  • Impact: Provides an organised opportunity for Council to hear and consider community submissions before making final budget decisions.
  • Next steps: Council will review all submissions at this 11 June 2025 meeting and determine any changes required to the proposed 2025/26 Annual Budget.

Endorsed intent to adopt the 2025/26 Annual Budget on 25 June 2025 (venue to be determined)

  • Context: After consultation and consideration of submissions, Council planned a final decision meeting to adopt the Annual Budget.
  • Details:
    • Endorsed intent (subject to changes after submissions):
      • Council will notify and place on public notice its intention to adopt the 2025/26 Annual Budget
    • Adoption date:
      • Wednesday 25 June 2025
    • Venue:
      • To be determined
  • Impact: Sets a clear timetable for when the community can expect the final budget outcome, supporting planning certainty for residents and service delivery.
  • Next steps: Council will issue public notice for the 25 June 2025 adoption meeting and confirm the venue closer to the date.

Community Impact

  • Residents (Ballan & surrounding areas): Draft 2025/26 Annual Budget to be placed on public exhibition for public inspection
  • Residents: Public submissions and feedback on the 2025/26 Proposed Budget open until 5pm Thursday 5 June
  • Ratepayers: Public submissions and feedback on the composition of proposed rates and charges open until 5pm Thursday 5 June
  • Residents: Community consultation meeting scheduled for Wednesday 11 June 2025 at 6pm to consider submissions
  • Residents (rate impacts): Council intends to adopt the 2025/26 Annual Budget at a Special Meeting on Wednesday 25 June 2025 (venue to be determined), potentially changing rates/charges after submissions are considered

Other Notable Items

  • Councillor raised concern about adequacy of notice for the special meeting under local laws.
  • Manager clarified shorter notice is permissible under exceptional circumstances.
  • Point of order raised about validity of rescission notice; clarified decisions can be affirmative/negative.
  • Rescission motion carried: prior 2025/26 budget resolution to be rescinded.
  • Draft 2025/26 budget to go on public exhibition; submissions invited until 5pm 5 June.

Tech & Innovation Notes

  • Mentions of meeting held “Ballan & Online” (online participation/platform implied).

Approve draft 2025–2029 Revenue and Rating Plan for public inspection

  • Authorise public notice, submissions, and hearing for Revenue and Rating Plan
  • Endorse 2025–2035 Long-Term Financial Plan for public consultation
  • Place Draft 2025/26 Annual Budget on public exhibition and invite submissions
  • and 2 more

6 decisions · 9 min read
Official minutes of the Moorabool Shire Council meeting on 14 May 2025

AI-generated summary. Written by a language model from the official minutes. Check the source before you quote or rely on it.

Key Decisions & Outcomes

  • Approve draft 2025–2029 Revenue and Rating Plan for public inspection.
  • Authorise public notice, submissions, and hearing for Revenue and Rating Plan.
  • Endorse 2025–2035 Long-Term Financial Plan for public consultation.
  • Place Draft 2025/26 Annual Budget on public exhibition and invite submissions.
  • Schedule budget submissions hearing (11 June 2025) and intended adoption (25 June 2025).
  • Prepare report on drought funding relief eligibility and Council’s role.

Detailed Descriptions

Approve draft 2025–2029 Revenue and Rating Plan for public inspection

  • Context: Council is required under the Local Government Act 2020 to prepare a Revenue and Rating Plan covering at least four financial years after each Council election. The draft plan sets the framework for how Moorabool Shire Council raises revenue to fund Council’s objectives.
  • Details:
    • Report author: James Hogan, Chief Financial Officer; authorised by David Jackson, General Manager Customer & Corporate Services.
    • Council resolution (Item 7.1, 14 May 2025 Special Council Meeting) directs Council to:
      • Approve the draft 2025–2029 Revenue and Rating Plan for public inspection.
    • Attachment: “Draft Revenue and Rating Plan” (under separate cover).
  • Impact: Enables community members to review and understand how rates and other revenue sources are proposed to be calculated and applied across 2025–2029, supporting transparency and legislative compliance.
  • Next steps:
    • CEO to give public notice, make the plan available for inspection, and invite submissions (see next decision item).

Authorise public notice, submissions, and hearing for Revenue and Rating Plan

  • Context: After approving the draft Revenue and Rating Plan, Council must formally notify the public, allow submissions, and provide an opportunity for submitters to be heard in accordance with the Local Government Act.
  • Details:
    • Council resolution (Item 7.1, 14 May 2025) authorises the CEO to:
      • Give public notice and make the draft 2025–2029 Revenue and Rating Plan available for inspection.
      • Invite submissions under the relevant legislative process (noted in minutes as “section 223 of the Local Government Act 1989”) until 5.00pm, 5 June 2025.
    • Hearing arrangements:
      • Any person who makes a written submission and requests to be heard is to be heard at a Special Meeting of Council:
        • Wednesday 11 June 2025
        • 6.00pm
        • Council Chambers, 15 Stead Street, Ballan
    • Adoption intention also set out in the same resolution (public notice to adopt on 25 June 2025).
  • Impact: Provides residents and ratepayers a structured opportunity to influence the final Revenue and Rating Plan before adoption.
  • Next steps:
    • Publish the notice and consultation materials; receive submissions by 5 June 2025; hold the hearing on 11 June 2025; then proceed to adoption on 25 June 2025.

Endorse 2025–2035 Long-Term Financial Plan for public consultation

  • Context: The Local Government Act 2020 requires Council to develop and adopt a Long-Term Financial Plan (including a 10-year plan) and to engage the community using Council’s deliberative engagement practices.
  • Details:
    • Report author: Robyn Head, Coordinator Financial Services; authorised by David Jackson, General Manager Customer & Corporate Services.
    • Council resolution (Item 7.2, 14 May 2025) states Council:
      • Endorses the Long-Term Financial Plan (2025–2035) (attachment 1) for public consultation until 5pm, 5 June 2025.
    • Legislative timing noted in report:
      • Council must develop/adopt/keep in force the 10-Year Financial Plan by 31 October 2025.
    • Consultation approach described:
      • “Consult” model (document on Have Your Say page; advertised on website and social media; available in libraries and customer offices/leaflet drops).
      • Dates referenced in the report: 15 May – 5 June.
  • Impact: Helps ensure the community can review Council’s medium-to-long-term financial sustainability assumptions and priorities before Council finalises the plan.
  • Next steps:
    • Publish the plan for consultation through Council’s channels up to 5 June 2025; then incorporate feedback into the final version for later adoption by 31 October 2025.

Place Draft 2025/26 Annual Budget on public exhibition and invite submissions

  • Context: Council must commence the statutory budget adoption process under the Local Government Act 2020, including public exhibition and invitation of submissions.
  • Details:
    • Report author: James Hogan, Chief Financial Officer; authorised by David Jackson, General Manager Customer & Corporate Services.
    • Council action (Item 7.3, 14 May 2025) concerns placing the Draft 2025/26 Annual Budget on public exhibition and inviting submissions.
    • Key figures and budget content referenced in the minutes:
      • Proposed rate increase: 3.00% (aligned with the Minister for Local Government’s Fair Go Rates System order).
      • Total recurrent income: $67.013 million
      • Total recurrent expenses: $68.511 million
      • Capital works/new capital works: $26.989 million
      • Example capital projects listed include:
        • Bacchus Marsh Racecourse & Rec Reserve – New Community & Multi Sports Hub: $3.500m
        • Local Area Traffic Management Implementation: $2.000m
        • Griffith Street, Maddingley – Shared path on South Side: $1.815m
        • Reseal Program: $1.789m
        • Young Street Kindergarten Upgrades: $1.500m
    • Waste service charges (as stated):
      • Waste Management Service Charge: $118.00 → $113.00
      • Overall Waste Collection Charge: $256.00 → $253.00
      • State Landfill Levy: $65.00 → $79.00
      • Optional Kerbside Green Waste service: $95.00 → $99.00
    • Consultation/submission process described in the report:
      • Draft budget available on Council website: www.moorabool.vic.gov.au
      • Physical copies mailed out on request.
      • Submissions invited (in writing) until 5.00pm, Thursday 5 June.
      • Submissions addressed to:
        • Chief Executive Officer, Moorabool Shire Council, PO Box 18, Ballan VIC 3342
      • Email: [email protected]
      • Online: https://moorabool.engagementhub.com.au/
  • Impact: Gives residents and stakeholders the chance to review the proposed operating and capital spending, rate impacts, and waste charges, and to provide input before Council adoption.
  • Next steps:
    • Receive submissions until 5.00pm, 5 June 2025; hear submissions at the scheduled meeting on 11 June 2025; then consider adoption on 25 June 2025 (subject to Council decisions after submissions).

Schedule budget submissions hearing (11 June 2025) and intended adoption (25 June 2025)

  • Context: The budget consultation process requires a hearing for submitters and a subsequent Council meeting to adopt the Annual Budget.
  • Details:
    • Hearing (budget submissions):
      • Scheduled Special Meeting of Council:
        • Wednesday 11 June 2025
        • 6.00pm
        • Council Chambers, 15 Stead Street, Ballan
      • Applies to submissions on the Draft 2025/26 Annual Budget and the composition of proposed rates and charges.
    • Intended adoption:
      • Proposed notice to adopt the 2025/26 Annual Budget:
        • Wednesday 25 June 2025
        • Special Meeting of Council
        • Venue to be determined (as stated in the minutes).
  • Impact: Establishes clear dates for community engagement (hearing) and for the final decision-making (adoption), improving predictability and accountability.
  • Next steps:
    • Conduct the hearing on 11 June 2025, consider submissions, then proceed to adoption at the 25 June 2025 Special Council Meeting.

Prepare report on drought funding relief eligibility and Council’s role

  • Context: A Notice of Motion was raised due to extended dry conditions impacting farming properties in Moorabool and the broader south-west Victoria region, with potential opportunities under federal and Victorian drought assistance programs.
  • Details:
    • Notice of Motion (Item 8.1, 14 May 2025):
      • Moved by: Cr Tom Sullivan
      • Seconded by: Cr Jarrod Bingham
    • Motion outcome:
      • Carried.
    • Required report content:
      • Prepare and bring back to Council a report outlining:
        • Eligibility criteria and opportunities for Moorabool Shire farmers under:
          • Australian Government On Farm Drought Infrastructure Grants program
          • Victorian Government Dry Seasons and Drought Support program
        • Council’s role and what Council would be required to do.
    • Rationale provided in minutes:
      • Extended dry conditions may continue without substantial winter rainfall, and Council should determine what is required to better assist drought-affected farmers.
  • Impact: Positions Council to better guide farmers toward relevant drought relief programs and clarifies what support/coordination Council can provide.
  • Next steps:
    • Officers to prepare the requested report and return it to Council for consideration (report timing not specified in the provided minutes).

Community Impact

  • Ratepayers (Moorabool Shire): Proposed 3.00% rate increase for 2025/26 to fund the Capital Improvement Program, new initiatives, service growth and Council operations (subject to submissions and final adoption)
  • Households and waste customers: Waste service charges change in 2025/26—waste management charge decreases from $118 to $113 and overall waste collection charge decreases from $256 to $253, while state landfill levy increases from $65 to $79 and optional kerbside green waste increases from $95 to $99
  • Residents needing local infrastructure upgrades: $26.989 million capital works program for 2025/26 including road reseals/widening and reconstructions (e.g., Ballan–Meredith Road, Windle Street, Steiglitz Street, Glenmore Road) which may affect access and local traffic during works
  • Active transport and recreation users: New/renewed community facilities and paths funded in 2025/26 (e.g., Bacchus Marsh Community & Multi Sports Hub, shared path at Griffith Street Maddingley, Main Street Bacchus Marsh path renewal, dog park at Bacchus Marsh Racecourse & Rec Reserve)
  • Local road users and commuters: Local Area Traffic Management Implementation ($2.0m) and shared-path works (e.g., Griffith Street) likely to change traffic conditions and require temporary detours or altered road layouts
  • Farmers and rural residents: Council will prepare a report on eligibility criteria and opportunities for Australian Government On-Farm Drought Infrastructure Grants and Victorian drought support programs, and what Council’s role would be in supporting drought-affected farmers

Other Notable Items

  • Council motion on 2025/26 draft budget failed 4/5; division split between councillors.
  • Proposed 3% rate increase; waste service charges decrease overall.
  • Draft Revenue and Rating Plan opened for public inspection; submissions invited until 5 June.
  • Long-Term Financial Plan endorsed for public consultation until 5 June.
  • Notice of Motion: report on drought funding eligibility for Moorabool farmers.

Tech & Innovation Notes

  • Council meeting held “Ballan & Online” (online participation/location noted).
  • Public consultation and submissions facilitated via digital channels:
    • Council website: www.moorabool.vic.gov.au
    • Email submissions: [email protected]
    • Online submission portal: https://moorabool.engagementhub.com.au/

Receive and note 2021–2025 Council Plan Q3 progress report (Jan–Mar 2025)

  • Seek ministerial authorisation and exhibit Planning Scheme Amendment C115moor (Retail Strategy)
  • Refer Planning Scheme Amendment C108 (Ballan Precinct 5) submissions to an independent panel
  • Appoint five members to the Public Art and Collections Advisory Committee
  • and 2 more

6 decisions · 10 min read
Official minutes of the Moorabool Shire Council meeting on 7 May 2025

AI-generated summary. Written by a language model from the official minutes. Check the source before you quote or rely on it.

Key Decisions & Outcomes

  • Receive and note 2021–2025 Council Plan Q3 progress report (Jan–Mar 2025)
  • Seek ministerial authorisation and exhibit Planning Scheme Amendment C115moor (Retail Strategy)
  • Refer Planning Scheme Amendment C108 (Ballan Precinct 5) submissions to an independent panel
  • Appoint five members to the Public Art and Collections Advisory Committee
  • Approve draft Council Plan 2025–2029 for public consultation and hearings
  • Proceed to public exhibition of Draft Road Management Plan 2025–2029

Detailed Descriptions

Receive and note 2021–2025 Council Plan Q3 progress report (Jan–Mar 2025)

  • Context: Council is required to monitor and report progress against its 2021–2025 Council Plan actions on a quarterly basis for transparency and performance management.
  • Details:
    • Meeting: Ordinary Council Meeting, Wednesday 7 May 2025.
    • Report: “2021–2025 Moorabool Shire Council Plan – Progress Report – Q3 (January–March 2025)”.
    • Time period covered: 1 January 2025 to 31 March 2025 (Quarter 3).
    • Scope: 37 Council Plan actions for Year 4 (including 21 carried forward from Year 3).
    • Outcomes as at 31 March 2025:
      • 11 actions completed (including one no longer proceeding).
      • 26 actions (70.3%) on track (90%+ of target) — 11 of these are complete.
      • 8 actions (21.6%) require monitoring (60%–90% of target).
      • 3 actions (8.1%) off track (<60% of target).
    • Resolution: Council received and noted the report and Attachment 1.
  • Impact: Provides the community and Council with an accountable snapshot of delivery performance, highlighting areas progressing well and those needing attention before year-end.
  • Next steps:
    • Upload action progress to Council’s online Council Performance Dashboard (noted as occurring in March 2025).
    • Report final end-of-year progress through Council’s Annual Report.

Seek ministerial authorisation and exhibit Planning Scheme Amendment C115moor (Retail Strategy)

  • Context: Council must implement the Moorabool Retail Strategy 2024 into the Moorabool Planning Scheme through a statutory planning scheme amendment.
  • Details:
    • Meeting: Ordinary Council Meeting, Wednesday 7 May 2025.
    • Amendment: Planning Scheme Amendment C115moor (Retail Strategy).
    • Purpose: Implement statutory recommendations of the Moorabool Retail Strategy 2024 (adopted 4 September 2024).
    • Resolution (Council actions):
      1. Seek authorisation from the Minister for Planning to prepare Amendment C115moor (in accordance with Attachment 1).
      2. Upon authorisation, prepare and exhibit the amendment under the Planning and Environment Act 1987.
      3. Authorise the Executive Manager Community Planning and Development to make minor documentation changes prior to exhibition (where intent is not altered).
      4. Authorise the Executive Manager to negotiate and resolve issues raised by submitters during exhibition prior to the amendment returning to Council for referral to a Planning Panel or adoption.
    • Key planning scheme changes proposed (high level): updates to strategic directions, activity centre hierarchy, business/tourism clauses, transport support clause, Commercial 1 Zone schedule (max leasable floor area), background documents, and updates to further strategic work (including an Inglis Street urban design/structure plan action).
  • Impact: Progresses planning certainty for future retail and activity centre development across Moorabool, supporting retail access for residents—particularly in growth areas—while providing clear guidance for developers and the community.
  • Next steps:
    • Await Minister for Planning authorisation.
    • Then publicly exhibit Amendment C115moor for approximately 40 business days from receipt of authorisation (as stated in the communications/exhibition section).
    • Receive submissions and report back to Council for consideration and potential referral to an independent Planning Panel.

Refer Planning Scheme Amendment C108 (Ballan Precinct 5) submissions to an independent panel

  • Context: Amendment C108 was publicly exhibited in early 2025; Council received a significant number of submissions raising multiple competing issues that cannot all be resolved through minor amendment changes.
  • Details:
    • Meeting: Ordinary Council Meeting, Wednesday 7 May 2025.
    • Amendment: Planning Scheme Amendment C108 (Ballan Precinct 5).
    • Subject land:
      • Approximately 98.5 hectares.
      • Rezone: Rural Living Zone → Neighbourhood Residential Zone.
      • Potential yield: approximately 930 lots.
      • Masterplanned community: up to 2,800 residents.
    • Exhibition timeline:
      • Ministerial authorisation granted: 5 August 2024.
      • Public exhibition: 24 January 2025 to 3 March 2025.
    • Community engagement during exhibition:
      • Three drop-in sessions held 4pm–7pm on 4, 14, and 18 February 2025.
      • Approximately 50 residents attended.
    • Submissions:
      • Total submissions received: 65.
      • Breakdown: 53 residents; 5 community groups; 5 government agencies; 2 landowner representatives.
      • Four submissions were received after the formal exhibition period but were still considered.
    • Resolution (Council actions):
      1. Consider submissions and request the Minister for Planning establish an independent planning panel to consider all submissions received for Amendment C108moor.
      2. Authorise the Executive Manager Community Planning and Development to negotiate/resolve issues raised in submissions and/or during panel process prior to the amendment returning to Council.
      3. Authorise consideration of further late submissions and referral to the independent planning panel.
  • Impact: Ensures unresolved concerns are assessed through an independent, public hearing process—improving procedural fairness and enabling specialist consideration of complex planning, infrastructure, amenity, and environmental matters.
  • Next steps:
    • Minister appoints an independent Planning Panel.
    • Panel holds a public hearing and provides an advisory report to Council.
    • Council then decides whether to adopt (with/without changes) or abandon the amendment after receiving the panel report.

Appoint five members to the Public Art and Collections Advisory Committee

  • Context: The Public Art and Collections Advisory Committee (PACAC) advises Council on commissioning, acquisition, and deaccession of public art under the Public Art and Collections Policy adopted 1 June 2022.
  • Details:
    • Meeting: Ordinary Council Meeting, Wednesday 7 May 2025.
    • Process: Open Expression of Interest; five nominations received and five recommended for appointment.
    • Resolution: Council approved appointment of five PACAC members (as per Terms of Reference):
      1. Lou Callow
      2. Kathy Holowko
      3. Lauren Matthews
      4. Vanaj Vidhya Renuha
      5. Liz Thompson
  • Impact: Strengthens governance and expert/community input into Council’s public art and collections decisions, supporting culturally meaningful outcomes across Moorabool.
  • Next steps:
    • Members commence committee role under the PACAC Terms of Reference.
    • Induction processes (including confidentiality agreement/sign-off) to manage confidentiality risk.

Approve draft Council Plan 2025–2029 for public consultation and hearings

  • Context: Following an election, Council must prepare and adopt a new Council Plan; the draft must be publicly exhibited with submissions invited under the relevant Local Government Act requirements.
  • Details:
    • Meeting: Ordinary Council Meeting, Wednesday 7 May 2025.
    • Resolution outcomes:
      1. Approve the draft Council Plan 2025–2029 for public inspection.
      2. Authorise CEO to give public notice and invite submissions from 8 May 2025 to 5 June 2025 (under section 223 of the Local Government Act 1989).
      3. Hear submissions (if required) at a Special Meeting on Wednesday 11 June 2025 at 6:00pm, Council Chambers, 15 Stead Street, Ballan.
      4. Notify intention to adopt the Council Plan at a Special Meeting on Wednesday 25 June 2025 at 6:00pm, Council Chambers, 15 Stead Street, Ballan.
    • Draft plan structure:
      • Four objectives; 54 actions in total.
    • Submission methods noted:
      • Written submissions to CEO (PO Box 18, Ballan VIC 3342), email [email protected], or online via moorabool.engagementhub.com.au.
  • Impact: Gives residents and stakeholders a structured opportunity to influence Council priorities and service/infrastructure direction for 2025–2029 before final adoption.
  • Next steps:
    • Public exhibition and submissions period (8 May–5 June 2025).
    • Submission hearing (11 June 2025, if required).
    • Adoption decision (25 June 2025).

Proceed to public exhibition of Draft Road Management Plan 2025–2029

  • Context: Under the Road Management (General) Regulations 2005, Council must review its Road Management Plan every four years; the updated plan must be publicly available for comment before adoption.
  • Details:
    • Meeting: Ordinary Council Meeting, Wednesday 7 May 2025.
    • Report: “Draft Road Management Plan 2025–2029”.
    • Resolution:
      1. Receive the report on the review of the current Road Management Plan 2021–2025.
      2. Authorise the CEO to give public notice that the Draft Road Management Plan 2025–2029 has been prepared and is available for public inspection.
      3. Allow a 28-day public exhibition period for submissions.
      4. Request a further report to Council at the conclusion of the exhibition period to consider all submissions prior to formal adoption.
    • Authoriser: Phil Jeffrey (General Manager Community Assets & Infrastructure).
    • Author: Jacquie Younger (Coordinator Asset Management).
  • Impact: Improves community visibility of road maintenance service levels, inspection and intervention timeframes, and risk management approach—supporting informed expectations and feedback.
  • Next steps:
    • CEO issues public notice and commences exhibition (28 days).
    • Officers prepare a submissions report for Council after exhibition closes.
    • Council considers submissions and then formally adopts the Road Management Plan (timing tied to the post-exhibition report).

Community Impact

  • Ballan residents: Independent Planning Panel will consider submissions for Planning Scheme Amendment C108 (Precinct 5), which may lead to rezoning of ~98.5ha and up to ~930 new lots (up to ~2,800 residents), changing local housing supply and neighbourhood character
  • Ballan residents (existing communities): Potential impacts from new development including traffic/transport changes, parking needs, and construction-related disruption will be assessed through the panel process (submissions included transport and car parking concerns)
  • Ballan residents (environment & safety): Stormwater drainage, flood risk, water quality, and utilities (water supply/sewerage/electricity) will be further scrutinised as part of Amendment C108’s panel consideration
  • Moorabool residents (growth areas): Planning Scheme Amendment C115moor will be prepared for exhibition to implement the Moorabool Retail Strategy 2024, shaping where future retail/activity centres can be developed over the next 10 years
  • Shire-wide residents: Draft Road Management Plan 2025–2029 will go to public exhibition (28 days), which may change Council road/path service levels (inspection frequencies, response times, and maintenance priorities) affecting road users
  • Residents and community groups (Council services): Draft Council Plan 2025–2029 will be publicly exhibited (8 May–5 June 2025) and may redirect Council priorities and funding for the next four years based on community submissions
  • Ballan and Bacchus Marsh communities: Public Art and Collections Advisory Committee (PACAC) members have been appointed, influencing future advice on commissioning/acquiring public art and managing Council’s public art collection

Other Notable Items

  • Community submissions for Ballan Precinct 5 raised concerns on transport, stormwater, utilities, education, and town character.
  • Draft Council Plan 2025–2029 opened for public consultation (8 May–5 June 2025), with hearings 11 June.
  • Council Plan Q3 progress: 70.3% actions on track; 8.1% off track; one “complete” project cancelled due budget.
  • Road Management Plan 2025–2029 to go to 28-day public exhibition before final adoption.
  • Public Art and Collections Advisory Committee nominations: five new members recommended after EOI and interviews.

Tech & Innovation Notes

  • Meeting livestreamed (online recording/streaming of council proceedings).
  • Online Council Performance Dashboard for publishing council plan action performance.
  • Public consultation and submissions via online platforms:
    • Council’s “Have Your Say” website for planning scheme amendment exhibition.
    • Moorabool website and an online engagement hub (https://moorabool.engagementhub.com.au/) for draft Council Plan submissions.
  • Use of Council online channels for community engagement (website and social media mentioned for expression of interest promotion).
  • IT/digital service references in governance/communications:
    • Submissions can be emailed and/or submitted online (draft Council Plan consultation).
  • Online participation for committee/reporting:
    • Audit and Risk Advisory Committee report presentation includes “Online” attendance.

Receive Yankee Flat Road speed petition and request officer report with police camera collaboration

  • Endorse community engagement for draft Customer Experience Strategy 2025–2027 for four weeks
  • Replace Blackwood Martin Street bus stop guardrail with timber-and-wire fence; notify petition convener
  • Endorse draft Moorabool Open Space Strategy for four-week public exhibition; report back after engagement
  • and 2 more

6 decisions · 9 min read
Official minutes of the Moorabool Shire Council meeting on 2 April 2025

AI-generated summary. Written by a language model from the official minutes. Check the source before you quote or rely on it.

Key Decisions & Outcomes

  • Receive Yankee Flat Road speed petition and request officer report with police camera collaboration.
  • Endorse community engagement for draft Customer Experience Strategy 2025–2027 for four weeks.
  • Replace Blackwood Martin Street bus stop guardrail with timber-and-wire fence; notify petition convener.
  • Endorse draft Moorabool Open Space Strategy for four-week public exhibition; report back after engagement.
  • Invite FFMVic Storm Recovery Team to present Wombat State Forest clean-up and fire mitigation updates.
  • Approve ongoing annual waste trial program for hard waste, free green waste, and half-price mattresses.

Detailed Descriptions

Receive Yankee Flat Road speed petition and request officer report with police camera collaboration

  • Context: Council received a petition seeking permanent speed limit reductions and enforcement via permanent speed cameras on Yankee Flat Road.
  • Details:
    • Petition received: 37 signatures from the President, Koala Alliance Inc.
    • Requested changes:
      • Reduce speed limit from 100km/h to 80km/h on Yankee Flat Road between Navigators Road and Ramage Road
      • Reduce speed limit from 80km/h to 60km/h on Yankee Flat Road between Ramage Road and Mount Buninyong Road
      • Install permanent speed cameras along Yankee Flat Road between Ramage Road and Mount Buninyong Road
    • Council resolution date: Wednesday, 2 April 2025
    • Officer action requested: prepare an officer report for Council consideration, including collaboration with Victoria Police on the permanent speed camera proposal.
  • Impact: Provides a formal pathway for Council to assess community safety concerns and consider enforcement options to reduce speeding in a targeted road corridor.
  • Next steps:
    • Officers to prepare a report for a future Council meeting.
    • Report to include feasibility and recommendations regarding Victoria Police collaboration for permanent speed camera installation.

Endorse community engagement for draft Customer Experience Strategy 2025–2027 for four weeks

  • Context: Council has developed a draft Customer Experience Strategy 2025–2027 following initial engagement and now requires community feedback before finalisation and adoption.
  • Details:
    • Council meeting date: Wednesday, 2 April 2025
    • Resolution endorsement:
      • Endorses community engagement of the draft Customer Experience Strategy 2025–2027 for four weeks
      • Consultation to occur April–May 2025 (as outlined in the communications plan)
    • Strategy focus areas include:
      • Additional online self-service forms
      • Consideration of AI-enabled customer support enhancements
      • Review and refresh of the Customer Charter and service commitments
      • Continued improvement of MyMoorabool customer portal
      • Promotion of a smartphone app for reports/communications
      • Updates to Complaints Management Policy and Procedure
      • Improved public customer experience reporting
  • Impact: Ensures residents and customers can influence service commitments and digital/customer support improvements before Council adoption.
  • Next steps:
    • Run four-week consultation (April–May 2025).
    • After consultation, officers to revise the strategy and present it to Council for final consideration and adoption at a later date.

Replace Blackwood Martin Street bus stop guardrail with timber-and-wire fence; notify petition convener

  • Context: A petition raised concerns about the safety and visibility impacts of a guardrail installed at the Blackwood bus stop on Martin Street.
  • Details:
    • Petition background:
      • Petition received: 43 signatures
      • Submitted at the December 2024 Ordinary Meeting
      • Petition concerns: obstruction of visibility; children climbing on the rail; potential fall risk onto concrete
    • Location: Bus stop on Martin Street, Blackwood, specifically in front of 15 Martin Street
    • Council resolution date: Wednesday, 2 April 2025
    • Decision:
      • Replace the existing fence/guardrail at the site with a timber-and-wire fence similar to the fence installed along Martin Street
      • Estimated cost: ~$5,000 (excluding GST) (noted as an overspend on the CIP project)
      • Notify the petition convener of Council’s decision
  • Impact: Balances community concerns about the bus stop environment with safety requirements under relevant standards, while addressing the petitioners’ preferred alternative style.
  • Next steps:
    • Officers to arrange the fence replacement.
    • Officers to notify the petition convener in April 2025 with the outcomes of the report.

Endorse draft Moorabool Open Space Strategy for four-week public exhibition; report back after engagement

  • Context: Council is progressing the Moorabool Open Space Strategy to guide planning, management, and enhancement of open spaces across the Shire.
  • Details:
    • Council resolution date: Wednesday, 2 April 2025
    • Decision:
      • Endorses the draft Moorabool Open Space Strategy for four-week community engagement/public exhibition
      • Requests a further report to Council after the engagement period
    • Strategy timeframe intent:
      • Draft aims to meet community needs today and into 2030
      • Final adoption targeted for June 2025 (per report background)
    • Development context:
      • Initial community consultation involved 142 community members
      • Strategy includes a classification system/hierarchy and a 5-year action plan
  • Impact: Gives residents the opportunity to shape open space priorities and actions, improving alignment with community expectations and future demand.
  • Next steps:
    • Conduct four-week public exhibition (exact dates to follow exhibition arrangements).
    • Officers to compile engagement feedback and present a post-consultation report to Council.
    • Final content/design edits and Council adoption in June 2025.

Invite FFMVic Storm Recovery Team to present Wombat State Forest clean-up and fire mitigation updates

  • Context: Following the June 2021 storm, Moorabool Shire communities and the Wombat State Forest required multi-year recovery and bushfire risk mitigation.
  • Details:
    • Council resolution date: Wednesday, 2 April 2025
    • Invitees:
      • FFMVic (Forest Fire Management Victoria) Central Highlands Storm Recovery Team
      • The team is funded to be in place until June 2026
    • Requested presentation topics:
      • Status of clean-up and fire mitigation works
      • Removal of trees in close proximity to Moorabool towns and hamlets within/around the forest
    • Related background (from the report):
      • Storm impacted ~45,000 hectares; ~1,600 hectares severely impacted
      • Program expected to complete by June 2026 (weather permitting)
  • Impact: Strengthens Council advocacy and keeps residents informed about ongoing safety works and progress in the Wombat State Forest.
  • Next steps:
    • Issue the invitation for the FFMVic team to present to Council (timing to be arranged).
    • Council also to write to DEECA requesting regular updates on clean-up and recovery works for community and Council (as included in the resolution).

Approve ongoing annual waste trial program for hard waste, free green waste, and half-price mattresses

  • Context: Council reviewed a three-year trial (2022–2025) of waste initiatives aimed at improving affordable disposal options and supporting fire season preparedness.
  • Details:
    • Original trial approval:
      • Considered at 6 April 2022 Ordinary Meeting
      • Trial period: 2022–2025
    • Components and timing:
      • Hard waste: 1m³ hard waste drop-off (annual; entitlement via rates notice)
      • Free green waste: November (free drop-off at transfer stations)
      • Half-price mattresses: March (50% reduction from standard annual rate)
    • Council decision attempt:
      • Motion moved: Cr Rod Ward, seconded by Cr Steven Venditti-Taylor
      • Motion outcome: LOST 4/5 (Mayor declared motion lost)
      • Division results:
        • In favour: Crs Jarrod Bingham, Moira Berry, Rod Ward, Steven Venditti-Taylor (4)
        • Against: Crs Tom Sullivan, John Keogh, Ally Munari, Paul Tatchell, Sheila Freeman (5)
  • Impact: The trial is not transitioned to an ongoing annual program on 2 April 2025; Council will need an alternative decision path (e.g., revised motion or further consideration) to continue or modify these initiatives.
  • Next steps:
    • Officers to proceed based on the Council’s outcome (motion lost).
    • If Council wishes to continue the services, a new decision will be required at a subsequent meeting (potentially with revised terms or enhanced promotion measures, as recommended in the report).

Community Impact

  • Yankee Flat Road residents: Speed limits proposed to be permanently reduced (100→80 km/h and 80→60 km/h) and permanent speed cameras planned between Ramage Road and Mount Buninyong Road
  • Blackwood bus stop users and nearby residents: Existing bus stop guardrail replaced with a timber-and-wire fence to address safety/visibility concerns while maintaining required barriers
  • Moorabool Shire residents (open space users): Draft Open Space Strategy 2025–2030 released for 4-week public exhibition, shaping future planning and upgrades to parks and recreational facilities through to 2030
  • Residents near/within Wombat State Forest: Ongoing storm recovery and bushfire mitigation works continue through June 2026, including removal of hazardous trees near towns/hamlets and updates via information sessions/webpage
  • Transfer station users/ratepayers: Trial waste services are set to continue annually at transfer stations—1m³ hard waste drop-off, free green waste month (November), and half-price mattress month (March)
  • Darley residents (Swans Road): After Stage 3 of the Bald Hill Activation Project, Council will request Transport Victoria conduct a safety audit for possible speed limit reduction and wildlife roadside signage improvements

Other Notable Items

  • Petition received: Koala Alliance request for Yankee Flat Road speed reductions and permanent speed cameras.
  • Blackwood bus stop petition response: replace guardrail with timber and wire fence for safety/visibility.
  • Draft Open Space Strategy endorsed for four-week public exhibition; final adoption planned for June 2025.
  • Wombat State Forest storm recovery update: FFMVic to present status by June 2026, including hazard tree removal.
  • Hard Waste/Green Waste/Mattress trial review: motion to continue ongoing annual program was defeated (4/5).

Tech & Innovation Notes

  • Meeting livestreaming (online recording/stream of Council proceedings).
  • Customer Experience Strategy 2025–2027 includes digital transformation actions:
    • Additional online forms for customer self-service via the website.
    • Leverage of artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance customer experience.
    • Improving the online portal “MyMoorabool” for more self-service options.
    • Smartphone app implementation for reporting issues and receiving Council communications.
  • Storm recovery update includes an extensive webpage with an interactive map showing clean-up status.
  • Mention of “Antenno Mobile App Demonstration” (mobile app technology demonstration referenced in Mayor’s report).
  • Use of online channels for service promotion/communications (e.g., Council website/Facebook/social media mentioned for waste programs).

Receive 2021–2025 Council Plan Q2 progress report (Oct–Dec 2024)

  • Receive 2017–2021 outstanding Council Plan actions Q2 progress report
  • Approve CEO annual leave and appoint Acting CEO (David Jackson)
  • Appoint new Moorabool Heritage Advisory Committee members for current term
  • and 2 more

6 decisions · 10 min read
Official minutes of the Moorabool Shire Council meeting on 5 March 2025

AI-generated summary. Written by a language model from the official minutes. Check the source before you quote or rely on it.

Key Decisions & Outcomes

  • Receive 2021–2025 Council Plan Q2 progress report (Oct–Dec 2024)
  • Receive 2017–2021 outstanding Council Plan actions Q2 progress report
  • Approve CEO annual leave and appoint Acting CEO (David Jackson)
  • Appoint new Moorabool Heritage Advisory Committee members for current term
  • Approve submission of two RCSIF grant applications (Masons Lane, Maddingley Park)
  • Adopt revised 2025 Community Asset Committee Guidelines and commence EOI recruitment

Detailed Descriptions

Receive 2021–2025 Council Plan Q2 progress report (Oct–Dec 2024)

  • Context: Council’s 2021–2025 Moorabool Shire Council Plan runs for four years and is reported quarterly to track delivery against agreed targets. This item presents Q2 performance covering October–December 2024.
  • Details:
    • Report: 2021–2025 Moorabool Shire Council Plan – Progress Report – Q2 (October–December 2024)
    • Author: Karen Blobel (Organisational Development Business Partner); Authoriser: Derek Madden (CEO)
    • Quarter coverage: 1 October 2024 to 31 December 2024 (Attachment 1)
    • Delivery status as at 6 February 2025 for Year 4 actions:
      • Total actions for 2024/25 Year 4: 37
      • Completed for this period: 6 actions
      • On track (≥90%): 29 actions (78.4%) (including 4 completed)
      • Monitor (60%–90%): 6 actions (16.2%)
      • Off track (<60%): 2 actions (5.4%)
    • Completed actions listed include:
      • Seek funding for Stage 3 BMRRR
      • Implement the Visitor Economy Strategy Action Plan
      • Consult and complete Rural Land Use Strategy
      • Consult and complete Bacchus Marsh Town Centre Structure Plan
      • Implement the waste and resource recovery strategy
      • Completed construction of the regional bowls facility
    • Resolution: Council received the report (carried).
  • Impact: Strengthens governance and transparency by confirming most Council Plan actions are progressing “on track,” while clearly identifying the 2 off-track and 6 monitoring actions for closer attention.
  • Next steps:
    • Progress comments and performance status will be uploaded to the online Council Performance Dashboard in March 2025.
    • End-of-year progress will be reported in Council’s Annual Report.

Receive 2017–2021 outstanding Council Plan actions Q2 progress report (Oct–Dec 2024)

  • Context: Ten strategic actions from the 2017–2021 Council Plan were not completed by 30 June 2021 and were carried forward. Council continues quarterly reporting until completion.
  • Details:
    • Report: 2017–2021 Moorabool Shire Council Plan – Outstanding Actions Progress Report – Q2 (October–December 2024)
    • Author: Karen Blobel; Authoriser: Derek Madden (CEO)
    • Quarter coverage: October–December 2024 (Attachment 1)
    • Executive summary:
      • 10 strategic actions originally carried over
      • 8 actions completed
      • 2 actions remain “In Progress”
    • As at 6 February 2025:
      • The 2 remaining actions have reached 75%–80% of their target
    • Resolution: Council received the report (carried).
  • Impact: Provides assurance that legacy commitments from 2017–2021 are being actively progressed and transparently monitored until completion.
  • Next steps:
    • Continue quarterly reporting for the two remaining in-progress actions until they reach completion.

Approve CEO annual leave and appoint Acting CEO (David Jackson)

  • Context: The CEO, Derek Madden, requires scheduled annual leave, and Council must appoint an Acting CEO to ensure continuity of leadership and decision-making.
  • Details:
    • CEO leave period approved:
      • 5.00pm Friday 4 April 2025 to 8.30am Tuesday 22 April 2025 (inclusive)
    • Acting CEO appointment:
      • David Jackson appointed as Acting CEO for the same period (5.00pm 4 April 2025 to 8.30am 22 April 2025)
    • Resolution: Council approved both leave and Acting CEO appointment (carried).
  • Impact: Ensures uninterrupted executive management during the CEO’s leave period and maintains continuity for Council operations and service delivery.
  • Next steps:
    • Acting CEO arrangements take effect for the approved dates.
    • Internal handover and delegation/operational continuity processes to be applied during the leave period.

Appoint new Moorabool Heritage Advisory Committee members for current term

  • Context: The Moorabool Heritage Advisory Committee was established in 2007 and meets bi-monthly. New community membership is appointed via an Expression of Interest (EOI) process under the committee’s Terms of Reference (updated April 2023).
  • Details:
    • Committee established: 5 September 2007
    • EOI dates for community members:
      • Monday 9 December 2024 to Monday 20 January 2025
    • EOI for community groups:
      • Invitation sent Monday 9 December 2024, nominations due Monday 20 January 2025
    • Council resolution appoints new members for the current Council term (carried).
    • Appointments recommended for community members:
      • Two community members: Jonathan Halls and Catherina Carr
    • Community group representatives and deputies appointed (as nominated by groups that returned nominations):
      • National Trust (Geelong & Region Branch)
        • Rep: Jennifer Bantow; Deputy: Elizabeth Fairlie
      • Bacchus Marsh & District Historical Society
        • Rep: Tim Hogan; Deputy: Bruce Carboon
      • Ballan Historical Society
        • Rep: Richard Biden; Deputy: Margaret Green
      • Australian Gliding Museum
        • Rep: Allan Bradshaw; Deputy: David Goldsmith
      • Bacchus Marsh RSL Sub-Branch
        • Rep: Terry Rosewarne; Deputy: Marilyn Fernandez
      • Bungaree & District Historical Society
        • Rep: Tom Reynolds; Deputy: Heather Trigg
    • Resolution: Council resolved to appoint new members comprising:
      • Two community members
      • One representative and one deputy from each appropriate community group that returned nominations.
  • Impact: Improves heritage governance by refreshing committee membership and ensuring broad community representation across Moorabool.
  • Next steps:
    • Officers will notify successful applicants by email following Council’s resolution.
    • New members will serve for the duration of the current Council term in accordance with the Terms of Reference.

Approve submission of two RCSIF grant applications (Masons Lane, Maddingley Park)

  • Context: Sport and Recreation Victoria’s Regional Community Sports Infrastructure Fund (RCSIF) Round 2 opened recently and requires Council resolution to support applications. Two projects were identified as best aligned to the grant guidelines.
  • Details:
    • Grant program: Regional Community Sports Infrastructure Fund (RCSIF) (Sport and Recreation Victoria)
    • Application window:
      • Opened 28 October 2024
      • Closes 17 March 2025
    • Council approved submission of two grant applications (carried):
      1. Masons Lane Athletics Track Upgrade
    • Requested funding: $1,000,000 (SRV)
    • Council contribution: $1,400,000
    • Total project cost: $2,400,000 (exact costings to be confirmed after QS)
    • Project scope: upgrade existing turf track to a synthetic surface
      2. Maddingley Park Tennis Pavilion Planning Upgrades (DDA compliant)
    • Requested funding: $40,000 (SRV)
    • Council contribution: $10,000
    • Total cost: $50,000 (quotes for audits/design to be confirmed early 2025)
    • Purpose: schematic plans for accessibility upgrades (incl. addressing unsafe inequitable access and lack of accessible toilets)
    • Co-contribution ratio requirement: Council provides $1 for every $4 provided by SRV (4:1).
    • Funding source proposals:
      • Masons Lane: from 2025/26 and 2026/27 budgets
      • Maddingley Park planning: from 2025/26 budget
  • Impact: Supports improved community sport infrastructure and accessibility, while leveraging state grant funding to reduce the net cost to Council.
  • Next steps:
    • Officers submit both applications before 17 March 2025.
    • Clubs/tenant committees to be engaged and consulted during preparation.
    • Expected grant outcomes notification: July 2025.
    • If successful, Council will have 24 months to execute the projects after signing the funding agreement.

Adopt revised 2025 Community Asset Committee Guidelines and commence EOI recruitment

  • Context: Community Asset Committees (CACs) operate under the Local Government Act 2020 and manage and maintain community assets delegated by Council. Updated Guidelines were developed following community engagement and are due to be adopted for the new term.
  • Details:
    • Purpose of item:
      • Adopt updated 2025 Community Asset Committee Guidelines
      • Commence Expression of Interest (EOI) recruitment for committee membership across Council delegated CACs
    • Community engagement for draft Guidelines:
      • 19 December 2024 to 30 January 2025 (6-week process)
    • Resolution (carried):
      1. Council adopts the updated 2025 Community Asset Committee Guidelines
      2. Council approves officers to undertake an EOI process to recruit committee members for all Council delegated CACs (noted as per 4 December 2024 Ordinary Council Meeting item 11.4)
      3. Officers will report annually to Council on CACs and guideline operational issues, including recommendations for improvements/review if required
    • EOI recruitment timeline:
      • Proposed EOI process over a 4-week period through March 2025
    • Communication/engagement approach:
      • Officers will provide selection process details as part of the EOI.
      • Each local community will recommend committee members.
      • Officers will present recommendations to Council after recruitment.
  • Impact: Strengthens volunteer governance, clarity of roles and compliance expectations, and helps ensure CACs remain representative and functional for community facilities.
  • Next steps:
    • Begin EOI recruitment during March 2025.
    • Officers present a report with recommended committee membership to Council after the EOI process.
    • New CAC memberships finalised by May 2025 (as outlined in the communications plan).

Community Impact

  • Bacchus Marsh residents (education): Council will write to the Victorian Government and request a feasibility study/business case for a second public secondary school in the greater Bacchus Marsh area during 2025/26
  • Bacchus Marsh residents (community sport): Council-supported grant applications may lead to a Masons Lane athletics track upgrade to a synthetic surface (subject to funding outcomes)
  • Maddingley residents (accessibility): Planning for Maddingley Park tennis pavilion accessibility/DDA-compliant upgrades (schematic plans) to improve access for people with disability
  • Bacchus Marsh Men’s Shed members and users: Ongoing Council support to grow the Men’s Shed beyond its current ~40-person site capacity by continuing to search for suitable sites through future master planning
  • Community facility users (community groups/events): Hall hire and POPE permit fee processes may be reviewed/clarified with relevant committees following questions about commercial rates and permit administration costs for the Strawberry & Cherry Festival
  • Community volunteers and users of Council-delegated facilities: Updated 2025 Community Asset Committee Guidelines and a March 2025 EOI recruitment process will affect how community asset committees operate and how volunteers are supported/inducted
  • Residents across Moorabool Shire: Ongoing delivery and reporting on Council Plan and Capital Improvement Program actions, including project carryovers (e.g., Ballan Library, Bacchus Marsh Racecourse & Recreation Reserve pavilion, Woolpack Road Bridge) which may shift timelines for local works

Other Notable Items

  • Public question raised about waiving POPE fees for Strawberry & Cherry Festival permit administration costs.
  • Public question raised about Bacchus Marsh Public Hall commercial hire fees despite non-profit event status.
  • Men’s Shed update: site constraints limit membership; officers continuing to seek future site options via masterplanning.
  • Community Asset Committee Guidelines 2025 feedback process and March 2025 EOI recruitment for new committee members.
  • Notice of Motion: request for feasibility study for additional state secondary school(s) in greater Bacchus Marsh area.

Tech & Innovation Notes

  • Council meeting livestreaming (online recording of proceedings)
  • Online Council Performance Dashboard planned for March 2025 to publish Council Plan action performance
  • Online Expression of Interest (EOI) processes using digital platforms/forms (e.g., Heritage Advisory Committee EOI; Community Asset Committee recruitment via “Have Your Say” platform and website)
  • Use of social media and council website as digital channels for public engagement (Facebook, Instagram, Council website, eNews)
  • “Have Your Say” community engagement platform referenced for feedback on Community Asset Committee Guidelines 2025
  • Online form submission required for Heritage Advisory Committee EOI applicants
  • Digital communications/administration via email and online submissions for committee nominations and recruitment

Confirmed minutes of the 18 December 2024 Ordinary Council Meeting

  • Approved consultation and engagement for the 2025–2029 Health and Wellbeing Plan
  • Adopted the Councillor Social Media Policy
  • Adopted the Final Gateways Strategy and noted its action plan for future budgets
  • and 2 more

6 decisions · 8 min read
Official minutes of the Moorabool Shire Council meeting on 5 February 2025

AI-generated summary. Written by a language model from the official minutes. Check the source before you quote or rely on it.

Key Decisions & Outcomes

  • Confirmed minutes of the 18 December 2024 Ordinary Council Meeting.
  • Approved consultation and engagement for the 2025–2029 Health and Wellbeing Plan.
  • Adopted the Councillor Social Media Policy.
  • Adopted the Final Gateways Strategy and noted its action plan for future budgets.
  • Received and noted Community Asset Committee minutes for multiple community assets.
  • Prepared recommendations report for fire risk mitigation in towns within/near Wombat State Forest.

Detailed Descriptions

Confirmed minutes of the 18 December 2024 Ordinary Council Meeting

  • Context: Council considered the formal confirmation of the minutes from the previous Ordinary Council Meeting held on Wednesday 18 December 2024.
  • Details:
    • Resolution moved by Cr Tom Sullivan and seconded by Cr Moira Berry.
    • Motion: “That the minutes of the Ordinary Council Meeting held on Wednesday 18 December 2024 be confirmed.”
    • Meeting date where confirmed: Wednesday, 5 February 2025.
  • Impact: Ensures the official record of Council deliberations and decisions from 18 December 2024 is formally adopted and can be relied upon for governance, reporting, and follow-up actions.
  • Next steps: Minutes remain part of Council’s official governance records and can be used to support subsequent resolutions, reporting, and implementation.

Approved consultation and engagement for the 2025–2029 Health and Wellbeing Plan

  • Context: Under the Public Health and Wellbeing Act 2008 (s26), Council is required to develop a Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan within 12 months of a Council election, with community consultation as part of the process.
  • Details:
    • Resolution moved by Cr Tom Sullivan, seconded by Cr Moira Berry.
    • Council approved consultation and engagement to inform the Moorabool Health and Wellbeing Plan 2025–2029.
    • Key consultation activities and timing included:
      • Have Your Say survey (Online): February 2025
      • Face-to-face outreach meetings: February 2025
      • Online/face-to-face workshops with community agencies: March 2025
      • Action planning workshops with internal/external stakeholders and the HWB Advisory Committee: April/May 2025
      • Draft plan briefings/OMC (TBC): July/August 2025
      • Draft plan feedback (Online): August 2025
      • Final plan presented for adoption (TBC): September/1 October OMC 2025
      • Submit plan to Department of Health: 31 October 2025
  • Impact: Builds a community-informed plan that aligns with Council’s strategic framework and ensures residents and stakeholders shape health and wellbeing priorities for 2025–2029.
  • Next steps: Consultation activities will be delivered according to the Communications & Consultation Strategy, with outcomes used to develop the draft plan for further briefings and community feedback prior to adoption.

Adopted the Councillor Social Media Policy

  • Context: Local Government Victoria advised councils to adopt a Councillor Social Media Policy to help ensure councillors act consistently with the Model Councillor Code of Conduct and manage related legislative and governance risks.
  • Details:
    • Resolution moved by Cr Rod Ward, seconded by Cr Moira Berry.
    • Council adopted the Councillor Social Media Policy at the 5 February 2025 Ordinary Council Meeting.
    • The policy was based on a VLGA model policy developed with sector input and informed by relevant laws and governance instruments.
  • Impact: Provides clear guidance for councillors’ online engagement, supporting responsible communication and reducing the risk of conduct breaches and governance issues.
  • Next steps: The policy is to be finalised and placed on Council’s website following adoption.

Adopted the Final Gateways Strategy and noted its action plan for future budgets

  • Context: Council engaged Tract to develop the Moorabool Gateways Strategy, incorporating community feedback and councillor check-ins before presenting the final version for adoption.
  • Details:
    • Resolution moved by Cr Jarrod Bingham, seconded by Cr Rod Ward.
    • Council:
      1) Adopted the Gateways Strategy; and
      2) Noted the Action Plan within the strategy for inclusion in future budget considerations.
    • Consultation and development included:
      • Public consultation with analysis of 200+ responses
      • Councillor briefing/check-in leading to amendments
    • Strategy signage and treatment framework included:
      • Type A Town & Village Picture Frame signs (retain/maintain; additional localities proposed)
      • Type B Main Gateway sign 1200mm (L) x 600mm (H) (typically for towns above 300 population)
      • Type C Secondary Gateway sign 600mm (L) x 900mm (H) (typically for settlements below 300 population)
  • Impact: Enables a consistent, community-informed approach to town entrance identity across Moorabool, supporting beautification and clearer planning for signage and landscape works.
  • Next steps: Implementation will proceed through the five-year Action Plan, with specific works considered through the annual budget process.

Received and noted Community Asset Committee minutes for multiple community assets

  • Context: Community Asset Committees are established under s65 of the Local Government Act 2020 to manage and maintain community assets, with committee minutes reported to Council for consideration.
  • Details:
    • Resolution moved by Cr Rod Ward, seconded by Cr Tom Sullivan.
    • Council received the following Community Asset Committee minutes:
      1) Navigators CAC – meeting held 28 February 2024
      2) Millbrook Community Centre CAC – meeting held 24 April 2024
      3) Elaine Recreation Reserve CAC – meeting held 8 May 2024 (redacted)
      4) Greendale Recreation Reserve CAC – meeting held 9 May 2024 (redacted)
      5) Lal Lal Soldiers Memorial Hall CAC – meeting held 18 June 2024
      6) Elaine Recreation Reserve CAC – meeting held 16 July 2024
      7) Bacchus Marsh Public Hall CAC – meeting held 5 August 2024
  • Impact: Strengthens governance oversight of community assets and ensures Council is informed of committee decisions, priorities, and maintenance/management matters.
  • Next steps: Committees continue their asset management activities, with Council receipt supporting ongoing accountability and future reporting.

Prepared recommendations report for fire risk mitigation in towns within/near Wombat State Forest

  • Context: Council raised urgent concerns following the June 2021 storm and ongoing fire risk from fallen timber in and around Wombat State Forest, affecting towns and communities in Moorabool.
  • Details:
    • Urgent business raised by Cr Tom Sullivan (as recorded under Item 18.1).
    • Resolution (prepared report): moved by Cr Tom Sullivan, seconded by Cr Moira Berry:
      • “That a report be prepared and brought back to Council that provides recommendations, directions and strategies to ensure the safety of the residents of the small towns that are located within and nearby the Wombat State Forest.”
    • Resolution to admit urgent business: moved by Cr Tom Sullivan, seconded by Cr Moira Berry.
    • Towns within the forest listed in the report: Blackwood, Barrys Reef, Dales Creek, Blakeville, Korweinguboora, Spargo Creek, Barkstead (and communities/towns immediately south of the forest).
  • Impact: Drives a structured response to reduce fire risk and improve safety planning for affected communities within and near the forest.
  • Next steps: A recommendations report will be prepared and returned to Council for further consideration, directions, and potential action planning.

Community Impact

  • Residents (Moorabool Shire): Community consultation activities (online survey and face-to-face meetings/workshops) to shape the Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan 2025–2029
  • Residents (all townships): Adoption of the Final Gateways Strategy will guide future upgrades to town entrances, including consistent signage and landscape/planting treatments over the next five years
  • Residents (towns within/near Wombat State Forest): Council will prepare a report with recommendations and strategies to reduce fire risk and improve safety for small towns located within and nearby the forest
  • Residents (MSC community): If a two-year snake catching removal service trial is implemented in 2025/26, eligible residents would gain access to a free, outsourced, licensed snake removal service during warmer months (1 Nov–31 Mar)
  • Residents (all areas): Councillor social media policy adoption will affect how councillors communicate publicly online, aiming to reduce risks and improve responsible engagement with the community
  • Residents (local community users of community assets): Receipt of Community Asset Committee minutes supports ongoing community asset management/maintenance decisions for facilities such as community centres, recreation reserves, and public halls

Other Notable Items

  • Community Asset Committee minutes received, including multiple recreation reserves and halls.
  • Health and Wellbeing Plan 2025–2029 consultation approved (survey and face-to-face engagements).
  • Draft Councillor Social Media Policy adopted following Local Government Victoria guidance.
  • Gateways Strategy finalised after 200+ consultation responses; adoption includes future budget action plan.
  • Urgent business: report requested on fire risk in Wombat State Forest towns.

Tech & Innovation Notes

  • Digital services / online platforms

    • Council meeting livestreamed (“meeting is livestreamed”).
    • Health and Wellbeing Plan consultation includes an online community survey (“Have Your Say survey – Online”).
    • Gateways Strategy consultation referenced a “Have your Say” digital platform.

  • IT / cybersecurity / digital policy

    • Adoption of a Councillor Social Media Policy (digital communications governance; policy to guide responsible use of social media).

  • Digital transformation / community engagement platforms

    • Use of online engagement tools for community consultation (Health and Wellbeing Plan survey; Gateways Strategy “Have your Say” digital platform).

Approve August 2024 Community Grants allocation totalling $97,305.20

  • Release updated Community Asset Committee Guidelines for six-week community consultation
  • Endorse community engagement plan for Council Plan 2025–2029 and strategic document reviews
  • Admit urgent business item regarding Fire Services Property Levy
  • and 2 more

6 decisions · 10 min read
Official minutes of the Moorabool Shire Council meeting on 18 December 2024

AI-generated summary. Written by a language model from the official minutes. Check the source before you quote or rely on it.

Key Decisions & Outcomes

  • Approve August 2024 Community Grants allocation totalling $97,305.20.
  • Release updated Community Asset Committee Guidelines for six-week community consultation.
  • Endorse community engagement plan for Council Plan 2025–2029 and strategic document reviews.
  • Admit urgent business item regarding Fire Services Property Levy.
  • Request state collection and accountability changes for Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund.
  • Resolve Sustainable Events Trailer waste rules for event organisers via deposits and transfer-station disposal.

Detailed Descriptions

Approve August 2024 Community Grants allocation totalling $97,305.20

  • Context: Council considered recommendations from the Community Grants Assessment Panel for the August 2024 Community Grants Program round. The round closed 31 August 2024 and was assessed against Council’s published criteria and eligibility requirements.
  • Details:
    • Meeting: Ordinary Council Meeting, Wednesday 18 December 2024
    • Grant round dates: Open 1 August 2024; closed 31 August 2024
    • Applications received: 16 applications (from 15 community groups); 15 deemed eligible
    • Total requested: $205,030.20
    • Total available for allocation in the round: $190,400
    • Council approval amount: $97,305.20 to be allocated across 11 recommended applications
    • Category recommendations (as presented):
      • Community Strengthening Grants: $22,859.20 (6 applications)
      • Community Development Fund Grants: $73,346.00 (4 applications)
      • Sustainability and Environmental Engagement Grants: $1,100.00 (1 application)
      • Community Arts and Culture Grants: $0
      • Community Events Grants: $0
    • Funding notes:
      • One application was withdrawn following assessment
      • One application will proceed outside of the Community Grants Program
      • One applicant has an acquittal due 31 December 2024 for a previously funded project (eligibility depends on acquittal being received/approved by due date)
  • Impact: Enables delivery of priority community projects across Moorabool by providing funding to 11 eligible projects, strengthening community capacity, development outcomes, and sustainability initiatives.
  • Next steps:
    • Grants recipients are to be notified following Council endorsement (letters by December 2024 / January 2025 as per the communications plan).
    • Grant agreements/terms and conditions will be progressed, including required acquittals and monitoring.

Release updated Community Asset Committee Guidelines for six-week community consultation

  • Context: Community Asset Committees (CACs) have operated under the Local Government Act 2020 framework, with Guidelines last produced in 2022. Council officers have reviewed feedback and updated the Guidelines, and a Council resolution is required before community consultation can occur.
  • Details:
    • Meeting: Ordinary Council Meeting, Wednesday 18 December 2024
    • Resolution: Approved release of updated Community Asset Guidelines for community consultation
    • Consultation period:
      • Commences: 19 December 2024
      • Closes: 30 January 2025 (closing at 5.00pm)
      • Duration: six (6) weeks
    • Purpose of consultation:
      • Provide broader community input because the Guidelines support delegation of powers to volunteer groups
      • Capture additional concerns before adoption
    • Key themes addressed in the updated Guidelines (from CAC feedback):
      • End of committee terms (including AGM processes, member exit/entry, office bearer positions)
      • Responsibilities and delegation (including maintenance worker engagement, OH&S responsibilities, day-to-day decision-making)
      • Appointment of committee members during the term (adding new members without Council approval)
  • Impact: Strengthens governance clarity and volunteer operational support for future CACs, improving consistency, safety, and decision-making across committee activities.
  • Next steps:
    • Community consultation runs 19 Dec 2024–30 Jan 2025 via the “Have your say” platform and targeted engagement with existing CAC members.
    • Feedback will be considered and brought back to Council for adoption of the updated Guidelines following the consultation period.

Endorse community engagement plan for Council Plan 2025–2029 and strategic document reviews

  • Context: The Local Government Act 2020 requires Council to prepare and adopt a Council Plan for at least the next four financial years after a general election, using deliberative engagement practices. Council must also review key 10-year strategic documents (Community Vision, Long Term Financial Plan, and Asset Management Strategy) using the same deliberative engagement approach.
  • Details:
    • Meeting: Ordinary Council Meeting, Wednesday 18 December 2024
    • Resolution: Council endorsed the community engagement plan and noted a results report will return to Council
    • Scope of engagement plan:
      • Development of Council Plan 2025–2029
      • Review of:
        • Community Vision 2030
        • Long Term Financial Plan 2021–2031
        • Asset Management Strategy 2022–2032
    • Statutory/engagement basis:
      • Designed in accordance with Council’s Community Engagement Policy
      • Incorporates deliberative engagement requirements prescribed by the Act
    • Timing described in the report:
      • After engagement: draft documents presented to Council for endorsement to commence public consultation in early 2025
      • Public consultation period then returns to Council for adoption by mid-2025
  • Impact: Ensures Moorabool residents and stakeholders meaningfully influence long-term strategic priorities, resourcing, and infrastructure directions for 2025–2029 and beyond.
  • Next steps:
    • Officers will run the engagement activities under the endorsed plan.
    • A report summarising engagement outcomes will be brought back to Council “in due course”.
    • Draft documents will be presented to Council for endorsement to proceed to public consultation in early 2025, with adoption targeted for mid-2025.

Admit urgent business item regarding Fire Services Property Levy

  • Context: Councillor Bingham raised a matter as urgent business regarding the Fire Services Property Levy, requiring Council consideration outside the standard agenda flow. Council voted to admit the item as urgent business.
  • Details:
    • Meeting: Ordinary Council Meeting, Wednesday 18 December 2024
    • Urgent business item admitted: 16.1 Fire Services Property Levy
    • Motion to admit urgent business:
      • Moved: Cr Jarrod Bingham
      • Seconded: Cr Tom Sullivan
    • Result: Carried
  • Impact: Allows Council to promptly respond to the impending transition from the Fire Services Property Levy to the Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund in 2025, and to advocate for changes to collection and accountability arrangements.
  • Next steps:
    • The related substantive resolution (CEO correspondence requesting changes/explanations) was considered immediately following admission of the urgent item.

Request state collection and accountability changes for Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund

  • Context: Council considered the replacement of the Fire Services Property Levy with the Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund (ESVF) in 2025. Council’s position is that state taxation should not be collected by local government via rating notices, and that allocation/accountability should be clarified.
  • Details:
    • Meeting: Ordinary Council Meeting, Wednesday 18 December 2024
    • Resolution (CEO to write to state representatives and MAV):
      • Moved: Cr Jarrod Bingham
      • Seconded: Cr Tom Sullivan
    • CEO correspondence requested to:
      • Premier
      • Minister for Local Government
      • Local members
      • Plus a separate letter to all Local Government CEOs and the MAV requesting similar action
    • Specific requests:
      1. Change collection of the new Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund
    • Moorabool Shire view: Local Government is not the correct agency to collect over $40m in state taxation via property rating system rate notices.
      2. Explain allocation of the Fire Services Levy
    • Fire Services Levy collected through Moorabool rates, totalling $40M+ since inception.
      3. Provide current and future return percentages
    • What percentage of levy raised will be returned to CFA infrastructure and other agencies within Moorabool Shire.
      4. Clarify the future Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund
    • What the future fund will be and what it includes.
      5. Request state collection by state government
    • CEO to write to all Local Government CEOs and MAV to also request the Minister for Local Government that ESFV be collected by the state government.
  • Impact: Strengthens Council advocacy for transparent allocation and appropriate collection responsibility for statewide emergency services funding, reducing resident confusion and improving accountability.
  • Next steps:
    • CEO to prepare and send the requested letters following the Council resolution on 18 December 2024.
    • Future correspondence outcomes and any state responses can be reported back to Council as they become available.

Resolve Sustainable Events Trailer waste rules for event organisers via deposits and transfer-station disposal

  • Context: A public question was raised about Council’s event waste management rules and whether larger events should be allowed to use Council’s Sustainable Events Trailer (instead of hiring their own bins). Council confirmed the matter was resolved with event organisers.
  • Details:
    • Public question raised by: Dotty Hazell for Bacchus Marsh EasterFest
    • Meeting: Ordinary Council Meeting, Wednesday 18 December 2024
    • Key issue raised:
      • Trailer previously held up to 10 x 240L bins historically used by groups
      • This year’s rule change (as understood by the questioner) required larger events to hire their own bins, increasing event costs
    • Council response (Phil Jeffrey, General Manager Community Assets & Infrastructure):
      • Event planners may borrow the Sustainable Events Trailer to manage waste and recycling
      • Trailer capacity: 4 recycling bins + 4 garbage bins
      • After the event: organisers can empty bins at any Council transfer station for no charge
      • Deposit requirement: $200 deposit (returned after the event)
      • Booking access: available on a first-in, first-served basis via an application system
  • Impact: Provides a practical, cost-managed pathway for event organisers to manage waste and recycling using Council infrastructure, while ensuring proper handling at transfer stations.
  • Next steps:
    • Event organisers continue to apply to borrow the Sustainable Events Trailer through the application system.
    • Council officers/teams will administer deposits and confirm post-event bin return and transfer-station disposal arrangements.

Community Impact

  • Community groups and residents: $97,305.20 in August 2024 Community Grants approved for 11 projects, supporting community programs/events/infrastructure and related local services
  • Volunteers and Community Asset Committee (CAC) members: Updated CAC Guidelines will be released for community consultation (19 Dec 2024–30 Jan 2025), potentially changing volunteer roles, responsibilities, and committee operations
  • Volunteer applicants across Moorabool: New/updated CAC Guidelines may affect how volunteers are appointed during a term and how committees add members and office-bearers
  • All Moorabool residents: Council will run deliberative and broader community engagement to develop the Council Plan 2025–2029 and review long-term strategies (Community Vision 2030, Long Term Financial Plan, Asset Management Strategy), influencing future priorities and service/infrastructure decisions
  • Residents affected by fire/emergency services levies: Council will seek changes to how the new Emergency Services and Volunteers Fund is collected (requesting state government collection rather than local rating), which could affect future levy administration and resident billing
  • Event organisers and attendees (e.g., Bacchus Marsh EasterFest): Sustainable Events Trailer rules clarified—event planners can borrow the trailer (with a $200 deposit) and empty bins at transfer stations for no charge, reducing event waste-handling costs and improving recycling/garbage management options

Other Notable Items

  • Community concern resolved: Sustainable Events Trailer borrowing rules clarified for event waste/recycling.
  • Public question on catering costs: average council meeting catering reported as $159.
  • Community Asset Committee Guidelines review: seeking community consultation for volunteer delegation changes.
  • Community engagement plan endorsed for Council Plan 2025–2029 and supporting strategies; results to return to Council.
  • Urgent advocacy: CEO to write to Premier/Minister/MAV about Fire Services Property Levy collection and allocation.

Tech & Innovation Notes

  • Council meeting livestreaming (recording of meeting via livestream)
  • Digital/online engagement platforms and channels for community consultation and communications, including:
    • “Have your say” community engagement platform (Community Asset Committee Guidelines consultation)
    • Council website, Facebook, E-News, and online/drop-in sessions for grant writing workshops
  • Online application system for borrowing the Sustainable Events Trailer (first-in, first-served via application system)
  • Community engagement plan for development of the Council Plan 2025–2029 and review of supporting documents (deliberative engagement and broader community engagement activities)

Receive petition and request an officer report on Blackwood bus stop guardrail removal

  • Receive 2017–2021 Council Plan outstanding actions progress report; continue quarterly reporting
  • Receive 2021–2025 Council Plan Q1 progress report; note overall action status
  • Appoint councillor representatives to 2025 Advisory Committees; note committee closures/transitions
  • and 2 more

6 decisions · 10 min read
Official minutes of the Moorabool Shire Council meeting on 4 December 2024

AI-generated summary. Written by a language model from the official minutes. Check the source before you quote or rely on it.

Key Decisions & Outcomes

  • Receive petition and request an officer report on Blackwood bus stop guardrail removal
  • Receive 2017–2021 Council Plan outstanding actions progress report; continue quarterly reporting
  • Receive 2021–2025 Council Plan Q1 progress report; note overall action status
  • Appoint councillor representatives to 2025 Advisory Committees; note committee closures/transitions
  • Extend Community Asset Committee terms and appoint councillor/community members pending EOI
  • Adopt Moorabool Health and Wellbeing Plan Year 3 progress report; carry forward two actions to Year 4

Detailed Descriptions

Receive petition and request an officer report on Blackwood bus stop guardrail removal

  • Context: Council received a community petition about the safety and visual impact of a guardrail installed at a bus stop in Blackwood.
  • Details:
    • Petition author: Heidi Hamilton (Governance Support Officer); authorised by Derek Madden (Chief Executive Officer).
    • Petition received: 43 signatures from the Blackwood Progress Association.
    • Location: Blackwood bus stop (guardrail installation referenced in the petition).
    • Council resolution (4 December 2024):
      • Council receives the petition.
      • Council requests officers prepare a report for Council’s consideration regarding the petitioner’s request (removal of the guardrail and exploration of alternatives in consultation with the community).
  • Impact: Enables formal consideration of community concerns about perceived safety risks (children playing on the rail) and the desire to preserve an “iconic view” while ensuring any decision is evidence-based.
  • Next steps:
    • Officers prepare and submit a report to a future Council meeting for deliberation (including safety/engineering assessment and consultation options).

Receive 2017–2021 Council Plan outstanding actions progress report; continue quarterly reporting

  • Context: The 2017–2021 Moorabool Shire Council Plan had incomplete strategic actions at 30 June 2021, which were not carried into the 2021–2025 Council Plan.
  • Details:
    • Report: “2017–2021 Moorabool Shire Council Plan – Outstanding Actions Progress Report – Q1 (July–September 2024)”.
    • Author: Lauren Shea (Organisational Change and Capability Lead); authorised by Derek Madden (CEO).
    • Status summary:
      • 10 strategic actions were outstanding as at 30 June 2021.
      • By 8 October 2024: 8 actions completed; 2 actions remain “In Progress”.
      • The two remaining actions have reached between 60% and 90% of their target.
    • Council resolution (4 December 2024): Council receives the Q1 outstanding actions progress report (Attachment 1).
    • Quarterly reporting: to continue for the two remaining actions until completion.
  • Impact: Improves governance transparency and accountability by tracking legacy commitments until they are fully delivered.
  • Next steps:
    • Continue quarterly progress reporting for the remaining two actions until completion (next Q2 report to be scheduled).

Receive 2021–2025 Council Plan Q1 progress report; note overall action status

  • Context: Council’s 2021–2025 Council Plan requires periodic performance reporting against Year 4 (2024/25) action targets.
  • Details:
    • Report: “2021–2025 Moorabool Shire Council Plan – Progress Report – Q1 (July–September 2024)”.
    • Author: Lauren Shea; authorised by Derek Madden.
    • Key figures as at 8 October 2024:
      • Total Year 4 actions: 37 (including 21 actions carried forward from Year 3).
      • Completed for this period: 4 actions.
      • Overall status for 2024/25 actions (as at 8 October 2024):
        • 27 actions (73%) on track (≥90% of target; green), including 4 completed actions.
        • 5 actions (13.5%) requiring monitoring (yellow; 60%–90%).
        • 5 actions (13.5%) off track (red; <60%).
    • Council resolution (4 December 2024): Council receives the Q1 progress report (Attachment 1).
    • Year 3 carry-forward: 21 actions not completed by 30 June 2024 were extended to be due by 30 June 2025.
  • Impact: Provides the community and Councillors with a clear performance snapshot, highlighting where additional attention or corrective action may be needed.
  • Next steps:
    • Maintain quarterly performance reporting through the year (next quarter’s update to be provided at the next reporting cycle).

Appoint councillor representatives to 2025 Advisory Committees; note committee closures/transitions

  • Context: Council needed to formally appoint Councillor representatives to Advisory Committees for the 2025 year.
  • Details:
    • Council resolution (4 December 2024) appoints representatives and notes governance changes for certain committees.
    • Appointments for 2025 (Advisory Committees of Council):
      • Audit and Risk Advisory Committee: Cr Berry, Cr Tatchell, Cr Ward (sub)
      • Australia Day Award Selection Panel: Mayor, Cr Berry, Cr Munari
      • Disability Access & Inclusion Advisory Committee: Cr Tatchell, Cr Berry (sub)
      • Economic Development Taskforce Advisory Committee: All Councillors, CEO, GMs
      • Heritage Advisory Committee: Cr Ward, Cr Keogh (sub)
      • Local Business Advisory Committee: Cr Tatchell, Cr Ward (sub)
      • Maddingley Park Advisory Committee: Cr Venditti-Taylor, Cr Berry (sub)
      • Moorabool Environment & Sustainability Advisory Committee: Cr Keogh, Cr Berry (sub)
      • Moorabool Health and Wellbeing Advisory Committee: Cr Freeman, Cr Berry (sub)
      • Positive Ageing Advisory Committee: Cr Freeman, Cr Tatchell (sub)
      • Public Art and Collections Advisory Committee: Cr Munari, Cr Berry (sub)
    • Closures/transitions noted:
      • Closure: Bacchus Marsh Racecourse & Recreation Reserve Advisory Committee.
      • Transition to Working Groups:
        • Bacchus Marsh & District Trails Advisory Committee
        • Lal Lal Falls Reserve Advisory Committee
    • Council also requests meeting schedules for 2025 and notifies committees of appointment arrangements.
  • Impact: Ensures continued strategic community input through advisory structures while streamlining governance where committees are closed or transitioned.
  • Next steps:
    • Committees are notified of appointment arrangements and requested to provide 2025 meeting schedules.
    • Transitioned groups operate as Working Groups under the new governance arrangements.

Extend Community Asset Committee terms and appoint councillor/community members pending EOI

  • Context: Community Asset Committees align to the Council term; the current appointments were due to conclude with the current Council term, so an extension was needed while a new EOI process is undertaken.
  • Details:
    • Council resolution (4 December 2024) under section 65 of the Local Government Act 2020:
      • Retains Community Asset Committees and appoints Councillor representatives and community members for a period sufficient to complete an Expression of Interest (EOI) process for the new four-year Council term.
    • Councillor representatives appointed (examples explicitly listed in the resolution):
      • Blacksmiths’ Cottage & Forge: Cr Keogh, Cr Berry (sub)
      • Bacchus Marsh Public Hall: Cr Bingham
    • Community members appointed (as listed in the resolution) across the retained CACs:
      • Blacksmiths’ Cottage & Forge: Allan Comrie, Simon Fisher, Chrissy Stancliffe, Geoff Stancliffe, Lynette Egan, Heather Robson, Jenny Arrowsmith, Sharon Dickman
      • Bacchus Marsh Public Hall: Keith Currie, Eric Daws, John Faulkner, Gary John Treloar, Carol Young, Anita Jennison
      • Dunnstown Recreation Reserve: Jaye Cahir, Sam Leneghan, Chris Leonard, Kellie Leonard, Greg Murphy, Joel Murphy, Shane Murphy, Fran Peterkin, Barry Sheehan, Trish White
      • Elaine Recreation Reserve: Dianne Cook, Joanna Adcock, Stephen Ford, Karen Hinkley, Tom Hinkley, Chris Guidotti
      • Gordon Public Hall: Beryl Forster, Frank Higgins, Kate Galloway, Lin Lawson, Sandra Baker, Sandra Jarrett, Stephen Derrick, Yvonne Blair Thompson
      • Greendale Recreation Reserve: Sarah Duncanson, Nick Myrianthis, Eddie Salwe, John Speed, Paul Higgins
      • Lal Lal Soldiers Memorial Hall: Ann Crick, John Crick, Graeme Diamond-Keith, Engels Leoncini, Peter Witherspoon, Susanne Witherspoon
      • Millbrook Community Centre: Amanda Labbett, Mark Labbett, Georgina Reynolds, Luke Reynolds, Andrea Weigall, Mark Weigall, Patrick Ryan
      • Navigators Community Centre: Wayne Austin, Ole Kelderman, Rick Stephens
      • Wallace Public Hall: Josie Donegan, Leanne O’Neil, Darren Quinlan, Alan Tiley, Karen Tiley
      • Wallace Recreation Reserve: Jason Carey, Maurice Mahar, Paul Mahar, Leanne O’Neill, Jacob White, Kenneth Williams, Shaun Kennedy, Tegan Button
    • Additional resolution actions:
      • Notifies each CAC of appointments and requests meeting schedules for 2025.
      • Authorises the CEO to approve new members where extraordinary vacancies/new nominations occur during the year.
  • Impact: Maintains continuity of community facility management and advisory input while the next term’s EOI recruitment is completed.
  • Next steps:
    • Run the EOI process to appoint new CACs for the next four-year Council term.
    • CACs schedule meetings for 2025 with the extended membership in place.

Adopt Moorabool Health and Wellbeing Plan Year 3 progress report; carry forward two actions to Year 4

  • Context: Council must annually review and report on the Moorabool Health and Wellbeing Plan (2021–2025), including progress for Year 3 and any rollovers.
  • Details:
    • Report: “Moorabool Health and Wellbeing Plan 2021–2025 Year 3 Progress Report”.
    • Author: Nichole Knight (Health Promotion and Gender Equality Officer); authorised by Leigh McCallum (GM Community Strengthening).
    • Plan adoption history: adopted by Council on 27 October 2021.
    • Year 3 action results:
      • Total Year 3 actions: 67.
      • Completed Year 3 actions: 65.
      • Completed Year 2 roll-over actions: 2.
      • Actions not started from Year 3 to carry over to Year 4: 2.
    • Actions recommended to carry forward to Year 4:
      • Provide quick response Youth Grant rounds to community groups and organisations to increase community driven social connections for young people.
      • Develop a planning policy related to applications for gaming venues.
    • Council resolution (4 December 2024): Council adopts the Year Three Progress Report (including attached Year Three action summary).
  • Impact: Confirms progress on health and wellbeing initiatives and ensures the remaining priorities are formally rolled into Year 4 for completion.
  • Next steps:
    • Continue delivery of the two carried-forward actions during Year 4.
    • Submit/prepare the next annual review reporting cycle as required under the Victorian Public Health and Wellbeing Act 2008.

Community Impact

  • Blackwood residents: Council will prepare a report on removing the bus stop guardrail after a 43-signature petition, potentially changing safety barriers and local streetscape/view impacts
  • Moorabool community (all areas): Council’s quarterly reporting will continue for outstanding Council Plan actions, with performance updates published on the online Council Performance Dashboard
  • Community facility users (Ballan & Bacchus Marsh): Community Asset Committees’ terms are extended while new members are recruited, affecting how local halls/asset operations and maintenance decisions are coordinated in 2025
  • Residents using community halls and reserves: Community Asset Committees will continue managing Council assets (including availability for hire, rentals/charges, and maintenance/improvements), influencing service levels and booking arrangements
  • Bacchus Marsh and Ballan outdoor pool users: A report will be prepared on changing opening times to 10:00am on Thursdays and Fridays when temperatures reach 23°C by 10:00am, affecting swim access schedules
  • Residents in areas without reticulated water (fire season readiness): Council will inspect Council-owned/managed bores, tanks and non-potable water supplies and ensure signage is in place, affecting access to emergency water sources and clarity of water safety status

Other Notable Items

  • Community petition (43 signatures) requested removal of Blackwood bus stop guardrail, citing safety and view impacts.
  • Council Plan reporting: 73% of Year 4 actions on track; 13.5% off track requiring monitoring.
  • Health & Wellbeing Plan Year 3: 65 of 67 actions completed; two Year 3 actions carried into Year 4.
  • Governance changes: Bacchus Marsh Racecourse CAC closure; trails and Lal Lal Falls CAC transitioned to working groups.
  • Urgent business: Outdoor pools opening hours proposed for warmer Thursdays/Fridays under Temperature Policy.

Tech & Innovation Notes

  • Council meeting livestreaming (online recording/streaming of the Ordinary Council Meeting)
  • Online Council Performance Dashboard (performance status of Council Plan actions to be uploaded for community access)
  • Council website publication/downloads (Annual Report downloadable from the Council website)
  • “Voice of the Customer” program update (customer engagement/digital service initiative mentioned in councillor briefings)
  • Online communications/engagement for reporting (e.g., Health and Wellbeing Plan report submission “Online”)

Receive the Mayor’s report for November 2023–October 2024 term

  • Set Mayor’s term of office for the 2024/25 election at one (1) year
  • Elect Paul Tatchell as Mayor for the 2024/25 Council year
  • Establish Deputy Mayor office and set Deputy Mayor term at one (1) year
  • and 2 more

6 decisions · 7 min read
Official minutes of the Moorabool Shire Council meeting on 18 November 2024

AI-generated summary. Written by a language model from the official minutes. Check the source before you quote or rely on it.

Key Decisions & Outcomes

  • Receive the Mayor’s report for November 2023–October 2024 term.
  • Set Mayor’s term of office for the 2024/25 election at one (1) year.
  • Elect Paul Tatchell as Mayor for the 2024/25 Council year.
  • Establish Deputy Mayor office and set Deputy Mayor term at one (1) year.
  • Elect Rod Ward as Deputy Mayor for the 2024/25 Council year.
  • Adopt 2025 Council meeting framework and schedule, including delegated committee dates.

Detailed Descriptions

Receive the Mayor’s report for November 2023–October 2024 term

  • Context: Council held its Statutory and Annual Appointments Meeting on Monday, 18 November 2024, including receipt of the outgoing Mayor’s annual report. The report covers the Mayor’s term from November 2023 to October 2024.
  • Details:
    • Outgoing Mayor: Cr Ally Munari
    • Reporting period: November 2023 to October 2024
    • Report author: Dianne Elshaug (Co-ordinator CEO’s Office), authorised by Derek Madden (Chief Executive Officer)
    • Council resolution: Moved Cr Moira Berry, seconded Cr Jarrod Bingham
    • Resolution: That the Mayor’s Report for the Mayoral term of November 2023 to October 2024 be received
    • Date of meeting: Monday, 18 November 2024
  • Impact: Formally records the outgoing Mayor’s activities, priorities, and reflections for the community and Council’s governance record, supporting transparency and continuity into the new Council leadership.
  • Next steps: The report is received and the meeting proceeds to formal appointment/election matters (including thanks to the outgoing Mayor and determining the Mayor’s term of office).

Set Mayor’s term of office for the 2024/25 election at one (1) year

  • Context: Prior to electing the Mayor, Council must determine whether the Mayor will serve a 1-year or 2-year term under the Local Government Act 2020 and Council Governance Rules.
  • Details:
    • Legislative basis: Local Government Act 2020, section 26(3); Council Governance Rules clause 4.1.2
    • Resolution: Moved Cr Tom Sullivan, seconded Cr Moira Berry
    • Decision: Mayor’s term of office = one (1) year
    • Meeting date: Monday, 18 November 2024
  • Impact: Establishes the leadership timeframe for the newly elected Mayor for the 2024/25 Council year, enabling Council and the community to plan around a defined annual mayoral term.
  • Next steps: Council proceeds to the election of the Mayor for the 2024/25 Council year.

Elect Paul Tatchell as Mayor for the 2024/25 Council year

  • Context: After determining the Mayor’s term length, Council conducted nominations and voting for the position of Mayor for the 2024/25 Council year.
  • Details:
    • Nominations received:
      • Cr Rod Ward nominated Cr Moira Berry
      • Cr Jarrod Bingham nominated Cr Paul Tatchell
    • Voting method: vote by Councillors; absolute majority required
    • Result: Cr Paul Tatchell declared duly elected Mayor (absolute majority vote)
    • Mayor assumes the Chair following declaration
    • Meeting date: Monday, 18 November 2024
  • Impact: Confirms the community leadership for the 2024/25 Council year and sets the Chairperson for Council proceedings, influencing priorities and representation of Moorabool Shire.
  • Next steps: The newly elected Mayor takes the Chair and the meeting proceeds to the determination and election of the Deputy Mayor.

Establish Deputy Mayor office and set Deputy Mayor term at one (1) year

  • Context: Council considered whether to establish the statutory office of Deputy Mayor and, if established, what term length it should run for.
  • Details:
    • Legislative basis: Local Government Act 2020 section 21 (Deputy Mayor role if established); section 20A (Council may establish office); sections 27(2) and 26(3) (Council determines 1-year or 2-year term prior to election)
    • Resolution: Moved Cr Jarrod Bingham, seconded Cr Rod Ward
    • Decision:
      • Establish an office of Deputy Mayor
      • Deputy Mayor to be elected for a one (1) year term
    • Meeting date: Monday, 18 November 2024
  • Impact: Ensures continuity of leadership and provides a formal substitute/acting Mayor capability if the Mayor is absent, incapable, or the office becomes vacant.
  • Next steps: Council proceeds to the election of the Deputy Mayor for the 2024/25 Council year.

Elect Rod Ward as Deputy Mayor for the 2024/25 Council year

  • Context: Following Council’s decision to establish the Deputy Mayor office for a one-year term, nominations and voting were conducted.
  • Details:
    • Nominations received:
      • Cr Jarrod Bingham nominated Cr John Keogh
      • Cr Sheila Freeman nominated Cr Steve Venditti-Taylor
      • Cr Tom Sullivan nominated Cr Jarrod Bingham
      • Cr Moira Berry nominated Cr Rod Ward
    • Voting method: vote by Councillors; absolute majority required
    • Result: After three rounds of voting, Cr Rod Ward declared duly elected Deputy Mayor for the 2024/25 Council year
    • Meeting date: Monday, 18 November 2024
  • Impact: Provides an identified Deputy Mayor to support governance continuity and to act in the Mayor’s stead when required, strengthening leadership stability for the community.
  • Next steps: The meeting continues to CEO reports, including adoption of the 2025 Council meeting framework and schedule.

Adopt 2025 Council meeting framework and schedule, including delegated committee dates

  • Context: Council considered its meeting schedule for the 2025 year to provide certainty and advance notice to residents, and to align with the Local Government Act 2020 and Council Governance Rules.
  • Details:
    • Resolution: Moved Cr Tom Sullivan, seconded Cr Ally Munari
    • Decision: Adopt the 2025 meeting framework and schedule, including delegated committee dates, with the following key timings and locations (Council Chambers, 15 Stead Street, Ballan):
      • Ordinary Council Meetings (first Wednesday each month, 6.00pm, from February 2025):
        • 5 February, 5 March, 2 April, 7 May, 4 June, 2 July, 6 August, 3 September, 1 October, 5 November, 3 December, 17 December 2025
      • Development Assessment Committee (third Wednesday each month, 6.00pm, delegated committee):
        • 19 February, 19 March, 16 April, 21 May, 18 June, 16 July, 20 August, 17 September, 15 October, 19 November, 10 December 2025
      • Moorabool Growth Management Committee (first Wednesday of every third calendar month, 3.30pm, delegated committee):
        • 5 March, 4 June, 3 September, 3 December 2025
      • Statutory Meeting of Council: 12 November 2025
    • Additional actions:
      • Provide public notice of time/date/venue as required
      • Authorise CEO to amend the 2025 schedule and notify the public in accordance with Governance Rules
    • Meeting date: Monday, 18 November 2024
  • Impact: Improves transparency and community planning by publishing a predictable annual meeting cycle, while ensuring delegated committees (planning and growth) meet on scheduled dates.
  • Next steps:
    • CEO issues/arranges public notice of the adopted schedule.
    • CEO may make minor amendments if required and must provide public notice of any changes.

Community Impact

  • Residents (governance/leadership): Paul Tatchell elected Mayor for the 2024/25 council year, setting the new leadership direction for council decisions affecting the shire
  • Residents (governance/continuity): Rod Ward elected Deputy Mayor for a one-year term, providing acting leadership if the Mayor is unavailable or the office becomes vacant
  • Residents (council transparency): Council meetings are livestreamed, increasing public access to council deliberations and decision-making
  • Residents (service access/administration): 2025 Council meeting schedule set (ordinary meetings first Wednesday from Feb 2025 at 6:00pm; Development Assessment Committee third Wednesday at 6:00pm; Growth Management Committee first Wednesday of every third month at 3:30pm), improving predictability of when community matters are considered
  • Residents (planning & growth oversight): Moorabool Growth Management Committee will meet from March 2025 to guide urban and rural growth planning across settlements and infrastructure under Moorabool 2041
  • Residents (cost of representation): Mayoral, Deputy Mayor (if elected), and Councillor allowances adopted at Category 2 maximums effective 1 July 2024, affecting council budget allocations that ultimately come from ratepayer funding

Other Notable Items

  • Councillors expressed appreciation for outgoing Mayor Cr Ally Munari; gift presented by CEO.
  • Mayor’s report highlighted growth challenges and commitment to “stay in our lane” and avoid politics.
  • Community engagement noted: residents reached out with thoughts and active discussions.
  • Adopted 2025 meeting schedule framework, including Growth Management Committee times and dates.
  • Oaths of office received for nine councillors after 8 November administration by CEO.

Tech & Innovation Notes

  • Council meeting livestreaming (recording of meeting)
  • Public communications via “Update website” and “Social media” to inform the community of newly elected councillors

Adopted 2023/24 Governance & Management Checklist for Annual Report and publication

  • Adopted “in principle” 2023/24 Performance Statement for Auditor-General certification submission
  • Authorized Audit & Risk Committee councillors to certify final Performance Statement post-audit changes
  • Adopted “in principle” 2023/24 Financial Statements for Auditor-General certification submission
  • and 2 more

6 decisions · 8 min read
Official minutes of the Moorabool Shire Council meeting on 18 September 2024

AI-generated summary. Written by a language model from the official minutes. Check the source before you quote or rely on it.

Key Decisions & Outcomes

  • Adopted 2023/24 Governance & Management Checklist for Annual Report and publication.
  • Adopted “in principle” 2023/24 Performance Statement for Auditor-General certification submission.
  • Authorized Audit & Risk Committee councillors to certify final Performance Statement post-audit changes.
  • Adopted “in principle” 2023/24 Financial Statements for Auditor-General certification submission.
  • Authorized Audit & Risk Committee councillors to certify final Financial Statements post-audit changes.
  • Approved extension of Audit and Risk Advisory Committee independent member Peter Smith.

Detailed Descriptions

Adopted 2023/24 Governance & Management Checklist for Annual Report and publication

  • Context: Council was required to adopt the 2023/24 Governance & Management Checklist as part of the Local Government Performance Reporting Framework (LGPRF) and to include it in the Annual Report and related publication requirements.
  • Details:
    • Meeting: Special Council Meeting, Wednesday 18 September 2024
    • Item: 7.1 2023/24 Governance & Management Checklist
    • Moved: Cr Rod Ward; Seconded: Cr Moira Berry
    • Resolution: Council adopted the 2023/24 Governance & Management Checklist and approved its inclusion in the 2023/24 Annual Report and submission to Local Government Victoria for publication on the “Know Your Council” website.
    • Checklist content: 26 items; reported as 26/26 established and in operation
    • Legal basis cited: Section 98(3)(c) of the Local Government Act 2020 and Regulation 9 of the Local Government (Planning and Reporting) Regulations 2020
    • Officers: Author Celeste Gregory (Executive Manager – Democratic Support & Corporate Governance); Authoriser Derek Madden (CEO)
  • Impact: Ensures the community-facing Annual Report includes the required governance and management assessment results, supporting transparency and compliance with state reporting obligations.
  • Next steps: The adopted Checklist is used for the 2023/24 Annual Report and submitted to Local Government Victoria for publication on “Know Your Council”.

Adopted “in principle” 2023/24 Performance Statement for Auditor-General certification submission

  • Context: Council needed to progress the 2023/24 Performance Statement to the Victorian Auditor-General for certification, while allowing for finalisation after any auditor-recommended changes.
  • Details:
    • Meeting: Special Council Meeting, Wednesday 18 September 2024
    • Item: 7.2 Adoption “In Principle” of the 2023/24 Performance Statement for Submission to the Victorian Auditor-General for Certification
    • Moved: Cr Tonia Dudzik; Seconded: Cr David Edwards
    • Resolution (CARRIED):
      • Council adopted “in principle” the 2023/24 Performance Statement
      • Council submitted it to the Victorian Auditor-General for certification, subject to no material change
      • Council authorised Audit & Risk Committee representatives:
        • Councillor Dudzik and Councillor Berry to certify the final Performance Statement after auditor-recommended/agreeable changes
    • Audit preparation timing noted: Performance Statement presented to the Audit and Risk Committee on Wednesday 11 September 2024
    • Performance indicator scope: 28 mandated indicators (7 sustainable capacity, 10 service performance, 11 financial performance)
    • Officers: Author Celeste Gregory; Authoriser Derek Madden (CEO)
  • Impact: Maintains momentum toward audited performance reporting, helping ensure residents receive timely, certified information about Council’s service, financial, and sustainable capacity performance.
  • Next steps: Submit the “in principle” Performance Statement to the Victorian Auditor-General; after audit changes, Cr Tonia Dudzik and Cr Moira Berry certify the final version for inclusion in the Annual Report.

Authorized Audit & Risk Committee councillors to certify final Performance Statement post-audit changes

  • Context: The Auditor-General’s certification process may require adjustments; Council needed an authorised pathway for councillors to certify the final audited Performance Statement after those changes.
  • Details:
    • Meeting: Special Council Meeting, Wednesday 18 September 2024
    • Item: 7.2
    • Resolution authority granted:
      • Councillor Tonia Dudzik and Councillor Moira Berry authorised to certify the 2023/24 Performance Statement in its final form
      • Trigger: after any changes recommended, or agreed to by the Auditor, have been made
    • Resolution wording basis: Under section 99 of the Local Government Act 2020, Council authorised the Audit & Risk Committee councillor representatives for final certification
  • Impact: Reduces delays between audit completion and formal certification, supporting timely release of audited performance information to the community.
  • Next steps: Following Auditor-General review and any required amendments, Dudzik and Berry sign/certify the final Performance Statement.

Adopted “in principle” 2023/24 Financial Statements for Auditor-General certification submission

  • Context: Council had to approve the 2023/24 Financial Statements “in principle” so they could be submitted for Auditor-General certification, with finalisation after audit adjustments.
  • Details:
    • Meeting: Special Council Meeting, Wednesday 18 September 2024
    • Item: 8.1 Adoption “In Principle” of the 2023/24 Financial Statements for Submission to the Victorian Auditor-General for Certification
    • Moved: Cr Tom Sullivan; Seconded: Cr David Edwards
    • Resolution (CARRIED):
      • Council adopted “in principle” and submitted the 2023/24 Financial Statements to the Auditor-General for certification
      • Council authorised Audit & Risk Advisory Committee representatives (Cr Dudzik and Cr Berry) to certify the final audited statements after auditor-recommended/agreeable changes
    • Financial highlights included in the report (2023/24):
      • Total comprehensive gain: $60.960 million
      • Cash decrease: $11.061 million
      • Net cash from operating activities: $9.033 million (noted as decreased by $34.478 million vs last year)
      • Capital expenditure (Statement of Capital Works): $17.038 million less than the previous year (with itemised variances)
    • Officers: Author James Hogan (Coordinator Financial Services); Authoriser David Jackson (GM Customer & Corporate Services)
  • Impact: Enables the community to receive audited, certified financial reporting, reinforcing accountability and financial transparency.
  • Next steps: Submit the “in principle” Financial Statements to the Victorian Auditor-General; after audit changes, the authorised councillors certify the final version.

Authorized Audit & Risk Committee councillors to certify final Financial Statements post-audit changes

  • Context: The Auditor-General’s audit may result in amendments; Council needed authorised councillors to certify the final financial statements once those changes were made.
  • Details:
    • Meeting: Special Council Meeting, Wednesday 18 September 2024
    • Item: 8.1
    • Resolution authority granted:
      • Cr Tonia Dudzik and Cr Moira Berry authorised to certify the 2023/24 Financial Statements in their final form
      • Trigger: after any changes recommended, or agreed to by the Auditor, have been made
    • Committee representatives referenced: “Audit and Risk Advisory Committee Representatives”
  • Impact: Ensures the audited financial statements can be finalised and certified without administrative delay, supporting timely Annual Report completion.
  • Next steps: After Auditor-General review and any amendments, Dudzik and Berry certify the final Financial Statements.

Approved extension of Audit and Risk Advisory Committee independent member Peter Smith

  • Context: Council considered a confidential matter relating to the Audit and Risk Advisory Committee’s independent membership, requiring an extension decision.
  • Details:
    • Meeting: Special Council Meeting, Wednesday 18 September 2024
    • Item: 9.1 Extension of Audit and Risk Advisory Committee Independent Member – Peter Smith
    • Process: Considered in Closed Session under Section 66(2)(a) of the Local Government Act 2020
    • Resolution (CARRIED):
      • Moved: Cr David Edwards; Seconded: Cr Tom Sullivan
      • Closed-session basis cited: Section 3(1)(h) (confidential meeting information, including records of meetings closed to the public under s66(2)(a))
    • Specific extension term/dates: Not stated in the provided minutes extract
  • Impact: Supports continuity and independent oversight within the Audit and Risk Advisory Committee, strengthening governance and risk management assurance for the community.
  • Next steps: Staff/committee administration will implement the extension following the closed-session decision; the committee’s membership arrangements continue accordingly (exact end date/term would be confirmed in the confidential item documentation).

Community Impact

  • Residents (Shire of Moorabool): Council’s 2023/24 annual reporting and performance accountability will be progressed through Auditor-General certification, improving transparency of council performance results
  • Residents: Published “Know Your Council” governance checklist (26 items) will be included in the Annual Report, reinforcing that council governance systems are in place and assessed
  • Ratepayers: Adoption “in principle” of the 2023/24 financial statements enables audited reporting of rates/charges and overall financial position, informing how council finances are managed
  • Community services users: The 2023/24 performance statement will report service performance indicators and material variations, which may influence future service planning and improvements
  • Residents: Annual Report and related audited documents will be made publicly available in early October 2024, increasing access to council results and financial information
  • Residents (public interest): Extension of the Audit and Risk Advisory Committee independent member will strengthen oversight of council audit and risk processes, indirectly supporting better decision-making and accountability

Other Notable Items

  • Community-facing performance and financial reporting prepared for Auditor-General certification.
  • Performance Statement “in principle” adopted; two councillors authorised to certify final audited version.
  • Financial Statements “in principle” adopted; Audit and Risk Advisory Committee councillors authorised to certify.
  • Governance & Management Checklist: 26/26 items established and in operation for 2023/24.
  • Closed session: extension of Audit and Risk Advisory Committee independent member Peter Smith.

Tech & Innovation Notes

  • Adoption of governance/performance reporting documents for publication on the Local Government Victoria “Know Your Council” website (digital public reporting platform)
  • Submission of Council’s Governance & Management Checklist, Performance Statement, and Financial Statements to the Victorian Auditor-General for certification (audited reporting workflow)
  • Council website publication of Annual Report materials (public-facing digital dissemination)

Adopt Rural Land Use Strategy, including background review and issues paper

  • Adopt Bacchus Marsh Town Centre Structure Plan, incorporating consultation changes
  • Note Civic Precinct engagement findings for future Civic Precinct masterplan
  • Proceed with planning scheme amendments to implement both adopted strategies
  • and 2 more

6 decisions · 11 min read
Official minutes of the Moorabool Shire Council meeting on 11 September 2024

AI-generated summary. Written by a language model from the official minutes. Check the source before you quote or rely on it.

Key Decisions & Outcomes

  • Adopt Rural Land Use Strategy, including background review and issues paper.
  • Adopt Bacchus Marsh Town Centre Structure Plan, incorporating consultation changes.
  • Note Civic Precinct engagement findings for future Civic Precinct masterplan.
  • Proceed with planning scheme amendments to implement both adopted strategies.
  • Approve confidential consideration of Traffic Control Services contract (C138-2024/25).
  • Approve confidential consideration of Darley Park playground project (C0146-2024/2025).

Detailed Descriptions

Adopt Rural Land Use Strategy, including background review and issues paper

  • Context: Council prepared a Rural Land Use Strategy (RLUS) to provide strategic planning direction for Moorabool’s rural land, including protection of high-value agricultural land and consistent decision-making. The draft was publicly consulted and updated before adoption.
  • Details:
    • Draft consultation period: 19 July to 18 August 2024
    • Community/stakeholder engagement outcomes during consultation:
      • 51 surveys
      • 45 written submissions
      • 672 webpage views
      • 366 social media link clicks
    • Late submission received after consultation closed:
      • Department of Transport and Planning (DTP) (officers reviewed and concluded no fundamental changes were required)
    • Key issues raised in submissions included:
      • Protection of high value agricultural land
      • Protection of water catchments (to be strengthened in the final RLUS)
      • Protection of natural assets and water resources
      • Support for additional rural living opportunities in appropriate areas
      • Impacts of increased dwellings in catchment areas (including potential effects of minimum lot size and rural living dwelling requirements)
    • Background/strategy preparation history:
      • RLUS prepared by Hansen in partnership with Ag-Challenge Consulting (work commenced following an initial consultation survey; Council engagement referenced September 2022)
      • Councillors briefed on the draft: 19 June 2024
      • Council resolved to consult community: 17 July 2024 (Special Meeting)
    • Adoption resolution (Special Council Meeting 11 September 2024):
      • Moved: Cr Paul Tatchell
      • Seconded: Cr Rod Ward
      • Council resolved to consider submissions and adopt:
        • Rural Land Use Strategy (Attachment 2)
        • Background Review and Issues and Opportunities Paper (Attachment 3)
  • Impact:
    • Provides a clear strategic framework to guide rural land use and development decisions, supporting agricultural productivity and environmental/catchment protection.
    • Improves consistency in how Council assesses rural development proposals over time.
  • Next steps:
    • Implement via an Implementation Plan that will recommend Moorabool Planning Scheme amendments.
    • A future Council report will be brought forward with proposed planning scheme amendments and further consultation as part of the amendment process.
    • Officers will continue working with DTP on implementation matters arising from the late submission.

Adopt Bacchus Marsh Town Centre Structure Plan, incorporating consultation changes

  • Context: Council reviewed and refreshed the Bacchus Marsh town centre planning framework to reflect growth, changing needs, and the long-term vision for housing, retail, employment, transport, community services, and public realm. A new Structure Plan was developed following community visioning and a July–August 2024 consultation process.
  • Details:
    • Consultation period for the draft Structure Plan: 12 July to 11 August 2024
    • Engagement methods and reach:
      • Webpage views: 1,882
      • Link opens: 581
      • Social media reach: 17,644 (two paid posts)
      • Surveys completed: 44 (stakeholders/community)
      • Written submissions: 14
      • Letters sent: over 2,000 to landowners/tenants within the study area and other stakeholders
      • Direct community engagement: phone and in-person discussions with residents, businesses, and community organisations
    • Late submission received after consultation closed:
      • Department of Transport and Planning (DTP) (officers concluded no fundamental changes required; issues noted for implementation)
    • Key community-supported directions (as described in the report):
      • Green link connecting Werribee River and Main Street
      • Protection of heritage features
      • Improved walking and cycling connections
    • Key concerns raised (notably Werribee River):
      • Concerns about removal of native vegetation and construction of non-permeable concrete paths
      • Revisions made to allow future consideration of these matters
    • Specific Structure Plan updates after consultation included:
      • Added emphasis on safety in design of public spaces
      • Text added indicating a four-storey height limit is preferred in commercial zoned areas
      • Increased emphasis on ecological value of the Werribee River and surrounds (to be considered in future changes)
      • Site 92–98 Main Street identified as potential future commercial land (short to medium term)
      • “Missing link” trail on the north side of the Werribee River:
        • Retained as a long-term consideration
        • Noted as unlikely to be feasible within the 15-year timeframe due to private land ownership
      • Green Link representation through Key Development Site #2 updated acknowledging landowner submission
    • Adoption resolution (Special Council Meeting 11 September 2024):
      • Moved: Cr Rod Ward
      • Seconded: Cr Moira Berry
      • Council resolved to:
        • Consider submissions/changes (Attachment 1)
        • Adopt the Bacchus Marsh Town Centre Structure Plan (Attachment 2)
        • Note Civic Precinct Engagement Summary for future masterplan (Attachment 3)
  • Impact:
    • Establishes a refreshed 15-year framework to guide land use and development in Bacchus Marsh town centre, supporting growth while strengthening access, public realm, heritage considerations, and ecological outcomes.
    • Provides a basis for future planning scheme changes and implementation actions.
  • Next steps:
    • Proceed to implement through an Implementation Plan, including recommended Moorabool Planning Scheme amendments.
    • A future Council report will be brought forward with proposed planning scheme amendments and further consultation as part of the amendment process.
    • Non-strategic projects will follow Council prioritisation, budgeting, consultation, and delivery processes.

Note Civic Precinct engagement findings for future Civic Precinct masterplan

  • Context: During the Structure Plan consultation, Council also gathered community input about what should be included in a future Civic Precinct. Council formally noted these findings for incorporation into a later Civic Precinct masterplanning process.
  • Details:
    • Civic Precinct input was captured through the Structure Plan consultation survey (respondents were asked what they would like included in a future Civic Precinct and to select from suggested uses).
    • The findings are documented as Civic Precinct Engagement Summary (Attachment 3).
    • Adoption resolution (Special Council Meeting 11 September 2024) explicitly included:
      • “Notes the Civic Precinct Engagement Summary for consideration in a future Civic Precinct masterplan (Attachment 3).”
  • Impact:
    • Ensures future Civic Precinct planning is informed by community priorities identified during the Structure Plan consultation, improving alignment with local expectations.
  • Next steps:
    • Use the engagement summary as an input to a future Civic Precinct masterplan process (timing to be determined through Council prioritisation and project planning).

Proceed with planning scheme amendments to implement both adopted strategies

  • Context: Both adopted strategies (RLUS and Bacchus Marsh Town Centre Structure Plan) include implementation actions that require updates to the Moorabool Planning Scheme to translate strategic directions into enforceable planning controls.
  • Details:
    • For the Rural Land Use Strategy:
      • The report states the Implementation Plan will contain recommended changes to the Moorabool Planning Scheme.
      • A future report will be brought to Council with proposed planning scheme amendments and further consultation.
    • For the Bacchus Marsh Town Centre Structure Plan:
      • The report states an Implementation Plan will recommend changes to the Moorabool Planning Scheme to deliver the shared vision.
      • A future report will be brought to Council with proposed planning scheme amendments and a further stage of consultation.
    • Financial context (as stated in the reports):
      • Planning scheme amendment costs (mail outs, advertising, staff/consultant time) are accommodated in the Growth and Development budget.
  • Impact:
    • Converts strategic planning directions into statutory planning tools, enabling consistent assessment of rural land use and town centre development outcomes.
    • Supports delivery of community-identified priorities (e.g., agricultural protection, catchment/environmental safeguards, town centre access/public realm, and civic precinct direction).
  • Next steps:
    • Prepare separate (or coordinated) planning scheme amendment packages for:
      • RLUS implementation
      • Bacchus Marsh Town Centre Structure Plan implementation
    • Bring forward a future Council report(s) with:
      • Proposed amendment wording
      • Consultation plan and timelines
      • Supporting documentation and impact assessment

Approve confidential consideration of Traffic Control Services contract (C138-2024/25)

  • Context: Council considered a confidential contract matter in closed session due to the nature of commercial information. This followed the public agenda items and occurred under the Local Government Act confidentiality provisions.
  • Details:
    • Meeting: Special Council Meeting, Wednesday 11 September 2024
    • Closed session item: 9.1 C138-2024/25 Traffic Control Services
    • Confidentiality basis:
      • Section 3(1)(g) of the Local Government Act 2020 (information provided by a business, commercial or financial undertaking; trade secrets and/or would unreasonably expose the business to disadvantage)
    • Closed session resolution:
      • Moved: Cr Tom Sullivan
      • Seconded: Cr Moira Berry
      • Council resolved to consider the matter in a meeting closed to the public
  • Impact:
    • Allows Council to properly evaluate contract-related commercial information without prejudicing supplier interests or compromising sensitive commercial terms.
  • Next steps:
    • The contract matter would be progressed following the closed-session deliberations in accordance with Council’s procurement/contracting processes (final decision and execution steps to follow the closed-session outcomes).

Approve confidential consideration of Darley Park playground project (C0146-2024/2025)

  • Context: Council considered a playground project matter in closed session due to confidential commercial information. This occurred alongside the Traffic Control Services contract item.
  • Details:
    • Meeting: Special Council Meeting, Wednesday 11 September 2024
    • Closed session item: 9.2 C0146-2024/2025 Darley Park Recreation Reserve Playground
    • Confidentiality basis:
      • Section 3(1)(g) of the Local Government Act 2020 (commercial information that could expose a business to disadvantage)
    • Closed session resolution:
      • Moved: Cr Tom Sullivan
      • Seconded: Cr Moira Berry
      • Council resolved to consider the matter in a meeting closed to the public
  • Impact:
    • Supports procurement/project planning for the Darley Park playground while protecting sensitive commercial information.
  • Next steps:
    • Progress the project through the relevant internal approvals and procurement/implementation processes following closed-session consideration (final scope, contractor engagement, and delivery timelines to follow).

Community Impact

  • Rural residents (Moorabool Shire): Adoption of the Rural Land Use Strategy will guide future planning decisions to protect high-value agricultural land and rural environmental values
  • Rural landowners and prospective developers: Implementation actions may lead to future Planning Scheme amendments affecting how rural land is used and developed (including precinct-based approaches)
  • Rural residents in/near water catchments: Increased emphasis in the Strategy on protecting water catchments and water quality may constrain or shape development and subdivision outcomes
  • Bacchus Marsh town centre residents: Adoption of the Town Centre Structure Plan will provide a 15-year framework for housing, retail, employment, transport, community services, leisure, and open space in the activity centre
  • Businesses and property owners in Bacchus Marsh town centre: Planning framework changes may unlock key development sites and support updated land-use direction, including potential future commercial land at 92–98 Main Street
  • Pedestrians, cyclists, and river-adjacent residents (Werribee River area): Structure Plan implementation will prioritise safer walking/cycling connections and improved public realm, with future consideration of Werribee River ecological values and concerns about vegetation removal and non-permeable paths

Other Notable Items

  • Community consultation feedback for Rural Land Use Strategy: 51 surveys, 45 written submissions, 672 webpage views.
  • Concerns raised on Bacchus Marsh Structure Plan: Werribee River native vegetation removal and non-permeable path impacts.
  • Late submissions from Department of Transport and Planning; no fundamental changes required, issues noted for implementation.
  • Future agenda item flagged: Civic Precinct masterplan informed by survey preferences and engagement summary.
  • Recognition/achievement: Structure Plan funded via Victorian Planning Authority Streamlining for Growth grants program.

Tech & Innovation Notes

  • Online platforms / digital engagement: Use of Council webpages (“Moorabool Have Your Say” webpage; project web page for the Structure Plan) for community consultation, including online surveys and tracking metrics (webpage views, link clicks, survey completions).
  • Digital communications: Promotion and feedback collection via social media and online surveys as part of consultation for both the Rural Land Use Strategy and the Bacchus Marsh Town Centre Structure Plan.
  • IT/digital infrastructure (limited mention): “Online” is referenced as the meeting location (Council Chambers & Online), but no specific IT systems or cybersecurity items are detailed.

Reject Elaine Recreation Reserve renaming to Ron Read Recreation Reserve due to consultation results

  • Adopt Heritage Strategy 2024–2028 following public consultation
  • Approve reduced swimming pool/spa safety barrier inspection fees and program review before next budget
  • Adopt Moorabool Retail Strategy 2024 and Background Report
  • and 2 more

6 decisions · 10 min read
Official minutes of the Moorabool Shire Council meeting on 4 September 2024

AI-generated summary. Written by a language model from the official minutes. Check the source before you quote or rely on it.

Key Decisions & Outcomes

  • Reject Elaine Recreation Reserve renaming to Ron Read Recreation Reserve due to consultation results.
  • Adopt Heritage Strategy 2024–2028 following public consultation.
  • Approve reduced swimming pool/spa safety barrier inspection fees and program review before next budget.
  • Adopt Moorabool Retail Strategy 2024 and Background Report.
  • Temporarily amend CEO delegation to award $500k–$1M contracts (18 Sep–31 Dec 2024).
  • Refer Maddingley O’Leary Way pedestrian safety treatments to future funding/CIP and seek DTP speed reduction.

Detailed Descriptions

Reject Elaine Recreation Reserve renaming to Ron Read Recreation Reserve due to consultation results

  • Context: Council considered a proposal to rename Elaine Recreation Reserve to Ron Read Recreation Reserve following a petition received from residents of Elaine and surrounding townships. The proposal required public consultation and assessment against Council’s Place Naming Policy and Geographic Names Victoria (GNV) rules.
  • Details:
    • Petition received from 106 residents (Elaine and surrounding townships) to rename the reserve (reported in the item background).
    • Proposal published for community consultation for 30 days in April 2024.
    • 312 submissions received during consultation:
      • 56 supporters
      • 255 objectors
      • 1 objecting petition containing 113 signatures (received at the Ordinary Meeting of Council on 5 June 2024)
    • Consultation result: 82% of submissions objected.
    • Council resolution outcome (4 September 2024 Ordinary Council Meeting):
      • Council not supported by the community and no longer complies with the Place Naming Policy and GNV Place Naming Rules.
  • Impact: Maintains the existing reserve name (Elaine Recreation Reserve), avoiding reputational risk and community dissent that would arise from proceeding without community support and compliance with statutory naming requirements.
  • Next steps:
    • Council will inform petitioners and submitters of Council’s decision (engagement plan notes letters to inform the community of the decision).
    • No further action toward GNV lodgement for this proposal, given the stated non-compliance and lack of community support.

Adopt Heritage Strategy 2024–2028 following public consultation

  • Context: Council reviewed and finalised its Heritage Strategy to guide how Moorabool Shire manages and shares local heritage over the next four years. The draft was publicly exhibited and submissions were considered before final adoption.
  • Details:
    • Draft Heritage Strategy publicly exhibited 10 May 2024 to 9 June 2024.
    • Consultation findings concluded the strategy was generally supported, with minor changes made in response to submissions.
    • Adoption resolution (4 September 2024 Ordinary Council Meeting):
      • Adopts: Heritage Strategy 2024–2028 (Attachment 1)
      • Notes: Consultation Summary (Attachment 2) and Submission Summary (Attachment 3)
    • Strategy lifespan: 2024–2028 (next update recommended every four years; preparation for next strategy would commence in 2028).
  • Impact: Provides a clear, community-informed framework for heritage planning and decision-making (including heritage overlays, conservation guidance, storytelling, and First Nations engagement), supporting Moorabool’s growth while protecting heritage values.
  • Next steps:
    • Implement the Strategy through the action plan across Council directorates.
    • Continue delivery of actions such as heritage gaps analysis, Heritage Overlay citation accuracy audits, heritage trails, and an interactive map portal (as specified in the Strategy).

Approve reduced swimming pool/spa safety barrier inspection fees and program review before next budget

  • Context: Council identified that approximately 25% of registered swimming pools/spas in the Shire have outstanding compliance certificates and that some owners struggle to find inspectors, particularly in rural areas. Council proposed a reduced-fee service to improve compliance.
  • Details:
    • Current issue:
      • ~25% of registered pools/spas have outstanding compliance certificates.
    • Proposed service (approved 4 September 2024):
      • $250 for an initial inspection
      • $100 for a reinspection where required
    • This was proposed as an alternative to the previous Council fee mentioned in the report:
      • Current Council fee referenced as $450.10 (proposed to reduce to $250 initial; $100 reinspection in lieu of $450.10).
    • Program governance:
      • Council to undertake a review of the program before next year’s budget process.
  • Impact: Improves pool/spa barrier compliance rates by lowering cost barriers and increasing access to inspection services—supporting drowning prevention and community safety, while promoting equitable access to compliance.
  • Next steps:
    • Implement the service and advertise it through Council channels (noted as late September 2024 communications in the report).
    • Conduct the required program review ahead of the next budget process.

Adopt Moorabool Retail Strategy 2024 and Background Report

  • Context: Council updated its retail planning guidance to reflect changes in strategic planning for key growth areas (including Bacchus Marsh and Ballan). The draft was consulted publicly and refined based on feedback.
  • Details:
    • Draft consultation period: 2 February to 3 March 2024.
    • Consultation included Have Your Say materials, an online survey, advertising, letters to traders/stakeholders, and discussions with the Moorabool Local Business Advisory Committee (LBAC).
    • Adoption resolution (4 September 2024 Ordinary Council Meeting):
      • Adopts: Moorabool Retail Strategy 2024 (Attachment 1)
      • Adopts: Background Report (Attachment 2)
      • Notes: Consultation Summary (Attachment 3) and Submission Summary (Attachment 4)
    • Strategy scope:
      • Provides a retail hierarchy and guidance for retail activity centres over the next 10 years.
      • Includes a five-year review (2029) and a 10-year lifespan to 2034.
  • Impact: Gives developers, investors, and the community clearer expectations for retail centre development—supporting appropriate retail provision in growth areas and enhancing liveability through better planning of daily shopping access.
  • Next steps:
    • Progress implementation through the Action Plan and a Planning Scheme Amendment to establish the retail hierarchy.
    • Continue related planning actions (e.g., Bacchus Marsh Town Centre Structure Plan and future Ballan Town Centre planning), and conduct the 2029 review.

Temporarily amend CEO delegation to award $500k–$1M contracts (18 Sep–31 Dec 2024)

  • Context: Council elections in October 2024 trigger an Election (Caretaker) period from 17 September 2024, which can limit Council’s ability to approve certain contract awards in time to maintain delivery of the Capital Improvement Program (CIP).
  • Details:
    • Council resolution (4 September 2024):
      • Implement a temporary amendment to the Chief Executive Officer’s delegation to allow awarding contracts valued between $500,000 and $1,000,000 (excluding GST).
      • Effective period: 18 September to 31 December 2024.
      • Limitations:
        • Only for projects listed in the report that form part of the adopted CIP
        • Must not exceed the allocated budget for each project.
    • Eligible projects listed (all within the adopted CIP and contract budgets ≤ $1,000,000):
      • Lal Lal Township Upgrade Project — $925,000 (planned start Dec 2024, completion Mar 2025)
      • McLeans Reserve Upgrade, Ballan — $890,000 (start Dec 2024, completion Apr 2025)
      • Old Melbourne Rd & Ballan Meredith Road Shoulder Sealing — $711,000 (start Dec 2024, completion Apr 2025)
      • Ballan Office Stage 2 — $575,000 (start Nov 2024, completion Mar 2025)
      • Hine Court Upgrade, Darley — $502,000 (start Jan 2025, completion May 2025)
      • Masons Lane Dog Park — $610,000 (start Dec 2024, completion Apr 2025)
      • Federation Park Upgrade — $937,000 (start Feb 2025, completion Jul 2025)
  • Impact: Reduces the risk of CIP delivery delays during the caretaker period by ensuring key contracts can still be awarded within the 2024–2025 financial year timeframe.
  • Next steps:
    • CEO delegation amendment is applied for 18 Sep–31 Dec 2024.
    • Contracts are awarded only for eligible CIP projects and within allocated budgets, with the delegation recorded in Council’s delegation register (noted as a statutory requirement in the report).

Refer Maddingley O’Leary Way pedestrian safety treatments to future funding/CIP and seek DTP speed reduction

  • Context: Council responded to a Notice of Motion regarding pedestrian safety at O’Leary Way, Maddingley adjacent to the Maddingley Village shopping precinct. A traffic engineering investigation (Onemilegrid) assessed risks and recommended treatments.
  • Details:
    • Investigation:
      • Consultant engaged; site inspection undertaken in May 2024.
      • Report title: “Maddingley Village Pedestrian Safety Investigation” (attached as 1 August 2024 report).
      • Findings: issues classified as low risk, but risks will increase with growth and a planned future primary school.
    • Council resolution (4 September 2024):
      • Notes the traffic engineering report.
      • Refers treatments to future funding opportunities included in Council’s long-term Capital Improvement Program (CIP):
        • Wombat crossing and kerb outstand on Gladman Road
        • Wombat crossings on all four legs of the roundabout at the intersection of:
          • O’Leary Way
          • McCormacks Road
          • Griffith Street
          • Bacchus Marsh–Balliang Road
        • No standing signage and sight distance improvements north of the shopping centre access to O’Leary Way
      • Seeks Department of Transport and Planning (DTP) approval for a speed reduction on O’Leary Way (between Griffith Street and Calderwood Road) to 50km/h (from the existing 60km/h limit).
      • Writes to owners of Maddingley Village Shopping Centre recommending in-precinct improvements:
        • Lights along internal pathway between carpark and Gladman Road
        • Connecting pedestrian path along northern boundary to carpark area
        • Correct alignment of tactiles for better guidance in carpark area
        • Rotate convex mirror at south side of carpark access to O’Leary Way
  • Impact: Advances pedestrian safety planning by locking in Council’s preferred safety upgrades for future funding/CIP and pursuing a speed environment change through DTP—improving safety for pedestrians as the area grows.
  • Next steps:
    • Submit the speed reduction request to DTP for approval to implement 50km/h.
    • Include the specified treatments in future funding/CIP planning processes.
    • Send the recommended safety improvement correspondence to the Maddingley Village Shopping Centre owners.

Community Impact

  • Elaine residents & reserve users: Council will not proceed with renaming Elaine Recreation Reserve to Ron Read Recreation Reserve after community consultation showed strong opposition (82% objecting)
  • Moorabool pool/spa owners (especially rural): Council will offer reduced-fee swimming pool/spa safety barrier inspections ($250 initial, $100 reinspection), making compliance more accessible and encouraging more certificates to be lodged
  • All Moorabool residents: Adoption of the Heritage Strategy 2024–2028 will guide how heritage is identified, protected (including Heritage Overlays), and promoted over 2024–2028, affecting planning and development expectations
  • Ballan & Bacchus Marsh residents: Adoption of the Moorabool Retail Strategy 2024 will shape future retail centre planning over the next 10 years (including guidance for growth areas and planning scheme controls)
  • Maddingley residents & shoppers: Pedestrian safety improvements are progressed via future funding/CIP pathways—wombat crossings at the roundabout, signage/sight-distance upgrades, and requests for a 50km/h speed reduction (subject to State approval)
  • Residents in areas with 2024–2025 capital works: Temporary delegation allows Council to award larger contracts during the caretaker period (18 Sep–31 Dec 2024), supporting continued delivery of projects like township upgrades, road works, and reserve upgrades (e.g., Ballan Office Stage 2, Lal Lal Township Upgrade, shoulder sealing works)

Other Notable Items

  • Community objected to proposed Elaine Reserve renaming; 82% of 312 submissions opposed.
  • Heritage Strategy 2024–2028 adopted after generally supported consultation; minor changes made.
  • Retail Strategy 2024 adopted; updates included Darley Plaza retail floor space cap increase.
  • Swimming pool/spa barrier inspections: reduced-fee service proposed to improve compliance.
  • Maddingley O’Leary Way pedestrian safety: wombat crossings, signage, and 50km/h speed reduction sought.

Tech & Innovation Notes

  • Meeting livestreaming (online recording of Council meeting)
  • Public consultation using online platforms: “Have Your Say” website/page, short online surveys, and online voting/survey for the reserve renaming proposal
  • “Heritage Strategy 2024–2028” includes development of an interactive map portal (digital information access for property owners/visitors/researchers)
  • “Heritage Strategy 2024–2028” consultation and promotion via Council social media channels and online advertising
  • “Moorabool Retail Strategy 2024” consultation includes online survey and documents viewable on Council’s “Have Your Say” page
  • “Audit and Risk Advisory Committee” reporting includes sessions “Darley Civic Hub and Online” and councillor briefing “Ballan and Online” (online participation)

Receive 2017–2021 Council Plan outstanding actions progress report (June 2024)

  • Receive 2021–2025 Council Plan Year 3 Q4 progress report (to 30 June 2024)
  • Defer adoption of the Moorabool Retail Strategy to a future meeting
  • Retain 80km/h speed limit on Ballan–Egerton Road (Mount Egerton) and request enforcement
  • and 2 more

6 decisions · 10 min read
Official minutes of the Moorabool Shire Council meeting on 7 August 2024

AI-generated summary. Written by a language model from the official minutes. Check the source before you quote or rely on it.

Key Decisions & Outcomes

  • Receive 2017–2021 Council Plan outstanding actions progress report (June 2024)
  • Receive 2021–2025 Council Plan Year 3 Q4 progress report (to 30 June 2024)
  • Defer adoption of the Moorabool Retail Strategy to a future meeting
  • Retain 80km/h speed limit on Ballan–Egerton Road (Mount Egerton) and request enforcement
  • Note Customer Experience Strategy review engagement results to inform a renewed strategy
  • Write to State Government to reverse Youth Engagement Support (YES) program funding cuts

Detailed Descriptions

Receive 2017–2021 Council Plan outstanding actions progress report (June 2024)

  • Context: The 2017–2021 Moorabool Shire Council Plan had actions that were not completed by 30 June 2021 and were therefore carried forward for ongoing quarterly reporting. This report updates Council on progress as at June 2024.
  • Details:
    • Ten (10) outstanding actions were carried over from the 2017–2021 Council Plan.
    • Eight (8) actions have been completed, including one completed in the 2023–2024 financial year.
    • Two (2) actions remain in progress and continue to be reported until completion, with the following completion levels shown:
      • Develop and implement a policy on allocation, use and trading of water for Council water assets — 80%
      • Incorporate strategic documents into the Planning Scheme – West Moorabool Heritage Study (2017–2021) — 70%
    • The report was received by Council at the Ordinary Council Meeting on 7 August 2024.
  • Impact: Ensures accountability and transparency for legacy Council Plan commitments, while confirming that most outstanding actions are already delivered and only two remain to be finished.
  • Next steps:
    • Continue quarterly reporting on the two in-progress actions (water policy; West Moorabool Heritage Study incorporation) until they reach completion.
    • Include progress reporting through Council’s established reporting channels (e.g., website display and end-of-year reporting in the Annual Report).

Receive 2021–2025 Council Plan Year 3 Q4 progress report (to 30 June 2024)

  • Context: The 2021–2025 Council Plan requires periodic performance updates to track delivery against strategic objectives and actions across the four-year period. This item provides the Year 3, Quarter Four status as at 30 June 2024.
  • Details:
    • Year three includes 48 strategic actions to be achieved:
      • 19 actions carried forward from Year 1
      • 15 actions carried forward from Year 2
    • As at 30 June 2024:
      • 27 actions completed (completion percentage met target)
      • 22 actions not fully completed, including 2 actions not started
    • Summary of action status by strategic objective (as reported):
      • Healthy, inclusive and connected neighbourhoods: 16 completed / 7 in progress / 0 not started (23 total)
      • Liveable and thriving environments: 8 completed / 9 in progress / 2 not started (19 total)
      • A Council that listens and adapts to the needs of our evolving communities: 3 completed / 3 in progress / 0 not started (6 total)
    • Council received the report at the 7 August 2024 Ordinary Council Meeting.
  • Impact: Provides the community and Councillors with a clear delivery snapshot, highlighting where progress is strong and where work is still required—supporting informed decisions and resourcing for 2024/25.
  • Next steps:
    • Continue delivery of the 21 uncompleted actions into 2024/25 (as described in the report conclusion).
    • Update performance information on Council’s online performance dashboard and continue end-of-year reporting.

Defer adoption of the Moorabool Retail Strategy to a future meeting

  • Context: Council considered submissions and the final draft of the Moorabool Retail Strategy (2024) but resolved to defer adoption rather than proceed immediately. This followed consultation conducted in early 2024.
  • Details:
    • Consultation period for the draft Retail Strategy: 2 February to 3 March 2024.
    • Engagement outcomes noted:
      • Social media interactions: 1,884 views/interactions
      • Surveys completed: 47
      • Written submissions received: 11
    • Strategy development support: prepared by economist Tim Nott with Hansen Partnership, funded via the VPA Streamlining for Growth grant program.
    • Council resolved to defer adoption at the Ordinary Council Meeting on 7 August 2024.
  • Impact: Delays formal implementation steps (including planning scheme amendment pathways) while Council considers the strategy further, potentially affecting timing for retail hierarchy guidance and related planning decisions.
  • Next steps:
    • Bring the Moorabool Retail Strategy back to a future Ordinary Meeting of Council for further consideration and potential adoption.

Retain 80km/h speed limit on Ballan–Egerton Road (Mount Egerton) and request enforcement

  • Context: Residents petitioned Council to reduce the speed limit on Ballan–Egerton Road near Devlins Road in Mount Egerton, citing safety concerns due to a crest/bend and speeding vehicles entering/exiting properties.
  • Details:
    • Petition details:
      • Received at the May Ordinary Meeting.
      • Contained 14 signatures from Mount Egerton residents.
      • Requested a 60–70 km/h speed limit to improve safety.
    • Location reviewed: Ballan–Egerton Road near Devlins Road, approximately 1.8 km east of Mount Egerton Township.
    • Current speed limit: 80 km/h.
    • Traffic/safety data used in the review:
      • AADT volume: 671
      • 85th percentile speed: 87 km/h
      • No crashes reported around this location in the past 5 years
    • Technical guidance: VicRoads Speed Zoning Technical Guidelines indicated 80 km/h is consistent and appropriate.
    • Road authority position: Department of Transport and Planning (DTP) did not support a speed reduction (citing guideline consistency, no crash history, minimal access points, and limited pedestrian activity).
    • Council resolution at 7 August 2024 meeting:
      • Retain 80 km/h on Ballan–Egerton Road near Devlins Road.
      • Request officers notify the petition convener of the resolution.
      • Notify Victoria Police to conduct enforcement activities.
  • Impact: Maintains the current speed setting based on technical and safety evidence, while still addressing speeding concerns through targeted police enforcement and prior installation of warning signage.
  • Next steps:
    • Officers to inform the petition convener via letter after the Council resolution.
    • Victoria Police to conduct enforcement activities in Mount Egerton (ongoing, per the communications plan).
    • Continue monitoring outcomes of enforcement and community feedback.

Note Customer Experience Strategy review engagement results to inform a renewed strategy

  • Context: Council’s 2021–2025 Council Plan includes an action to review the Customer Experience Strategy. Initial community engagement was completed in May 2024 to inform a renewed strategy.
  • Details:
    • Consultation timeframe: May 2024 (four-week initial public consultation approved at the 1 May 2024 Council meeting).
    • Survey responses:
      • 135 responses received from customers across the shire.
      • Age range: 18 to 65+
      • 70% of respondents aged over 45
      • 68% were residents
    • Channel preferences:
      • 60% preferred online interaction for simple enquiries (e.g., bin collection day, reporting potholes/maintenance, account balance, application forms).
      • For complex enquiries (e.g., rates notices, building/planning-related items), phone and in-person were preferred.
    • Satisfaction indicators:
      • 59% satisfied or extremely satisfied (noted as +4% compared with the 2019 engagement survey).
      • 62% would speak positively about Council.
    • Key themes identified:
      • Frontline staff are friendly and helpful
      • Opportunity to enhance customer handover
      • Online offerings have improved and forms are easy to use
      • Some delays in responses to requests
      • Desire for online access to view rate notices and payment/balance information
      • Variation in customer service skills across departments
    • Council resolved to note the engagement results at the 7 August 2024 meeting.
  • Impact: Ensures the renewed Customer Experience Strategy is grounded in direct community feedback, improving service design and customer satisfaction across Council interactions.
  • Next steps:
    • Use engagement results (plus Voice of the Customer and other inputs referenced in the report) to draft a renewed Customer Experience Strategy and associated Customer Service Charter.
    • Present the draft strategy to Council at a later date for endorsement for public consultation prior to finalisation and adoption.

Write to State Government to reverse Youth Engagement Support (YES) program funding cuts

  • Context: Council raised urgent concerns about State Government funding cuts to the Youth Engagement Support (YES) program, which supports essential youth services in the community. This was treated as urgent business at the meeting.
  • Details:
    • Council considered the matter as Urgent Business at the 7 August 2024 Ordinary Council Meeting.
    • Council resolution (carried) directed Council to write to State Government to reverse the funding cuts so Moorabool Shire Council can continue essential YES program work.
    • Letters to be sent to:
      • The Hon Jacinta Allan MP, Premier of Victoria
      • The Hon Minister Natalie Suleyman, Minister for Youth
      • The Hon Lizzie Blandthorn, Minister for Children
      • Ms Michaela Settle MP, Member for Eureka (Parliamentary Secretary for Regional Development; Parliamentary Secretary for Agriculture)
    • The resolution specifically asks the State Government to reverse the decision to cut funding for the Youth Engagement Support (YES) program.
  • Impact: If successful, helps protect youth support services and continuity of engagement work for local young people; if not, increases risk to service availability and outcomes for youth in Moorabool.
  • Next steps:
    • Prepare and send the letters to the named State Government representatives following the 7 August 2024 resolution.
    • Await State Government response and consider further advocacy actions if funding is not reinstated.

Community Impact

  • Mount Egerton residents: Ballan–Egerton Road speed limit will remain at 80km/h near Devlins Road (no 60–70km/h reduction), with Victoria Police notified to increase enforcement and advanced warning signage installed
  • Moorabool residents (all wards): Council will continue reporting progress on outstanding 2017–2021 Council Plan actions, with two remaining actions in progress and due to be completed over time
  • Moorabool residents (all wards): Delivery of Council Plan priorities will continue, with 21 actions carried forward into 2024/25 (including planning and infrastructure works such as Ballan Library & Community Hub design/construction and parts of the Aqualink Cycle Corridor and MARC/Aquatic projects)
  • Ballan and Bacchus Marsh residents: Retail planning guidance for the next 10 years will be deferred to a future meeting, delaying any planning scheme changes that would shape retail hierarchy, centre expansion, and related development decisions
  • Moorabool residents (all wards): Customer Experience Strategy will be updated using community engagement results (135 survey responses), influencing future service delivery—especially online access for simple enquiries and support for complex enquiries via phone/in-person
  • Bacchus Marsh residents (and hospital catchment): Council will write to state government and Western Health to seek honouring of 2021 commitments for Bacchus Marsh & Melton Regional Hospital (including commitments to keep the hospital open, protect jobs/staffing, and maintain/increase community programs)

Other Notable Items

  • Community petition requested 60–70km/h on Ballan–Egerton Road; Council retained 80km/h citing VicRoads/DTP guidance.
  • Community engagement results: 135 survey responses; 60% prefer online for simple enquiries, phone/in-person for complex matters.
  • Moorabool Retail Strategy deferred to a future meeting despite consultation and proposed updates.
  • Council Plan progress: 27 actions completed; 21 carried forward, including two not started.
  • Urgent business: Council to write to State Government to reverse Youth Engagement Support program funding cuts.

Tech & Innovation Notes

  • Meeting livestreamed (online recording/streaming of council proceedings).
  • Council “online Council Performance Dashboard” for uploading progress/performance information.
  • “Have Your Say” page used to host strategy documents and community consultation materials.
  • Online community consultation methods: online survey and online engagement (social media advertising; online survey for Retail Strategy).
  • Customer Experience Strategy review includes digital service delivery: preference for interacting with Council online for simple enquiries; council investing in “digital access” and online forms.
  • Action to “Develop the ICT Strategy” (listed under Council Plan actions).
  • Customer engagement and surveys conducted online (Customer Experience Strategy review).

Adopt amended 2024/25 rate-in-the-dollar values for all land classes

  • Adopt corrected estimated total land values for 2024/25 rating purposes
  • Make 2024/25 budget amendments publicly available on Council’s website
  • Commence four-week community consultation on the draft Rural Land Use Strategy
  • and 2 more

6 decisions · 9 min read
Official minutes of the Moorabool Shire Council meeting on 17 July 2024

AI-generated summary. Written by a language model from the official minutes. Check the source before you quote or rely on it.

Key Decisions & Outcomes

  • Adopt amended 2024/25 rate-in-the-dollar values for all land classes
  • Adopt corrected estimated total land values for 2024/25 rating purposes
  • Make 2024/25 budget amendments publicly available on Council’s website
  • Commence four-week community consultation on the draft Rural Land Use Strategy
  • Bring consultation feedback and proposed Rural Land Use Strategy changes back to Council
  • Update Rural Land Use Strategy policy positions (zones, overlays, agricultural protection) for consultation

Detailed Descriptions

Adopt amended 2024/25 rate-in-the-dollar values for all land classes

  • Context: Council identified minor but necessary changes to valuation figures and corresponding “rate in the dollar” amounts after the 2024/25 Budget was adopted on 26 June 2024, to ensure ongoing compliance with the rate cap and Fair Go Rates system.
  • Details:
    • Date of Council decision: 17 July 2024 (Special Council Meeting)
    • Legislative basis: Section 94 of the Local Government Act 2020 (budget adoption requirements)
    • Council resolved to adopt the following 2024/25 rates (cents per $CIV) for each land class for the period 1 July 2024 to 30 June 2025:
      • Commercial & Industrial Rate: 0.360902
      • Commercial & Industrial Vacant Land: 0.481202
      • Extractive Industry Rate: 0.750675
      • Farm Rate: 0.187669
      • General Rate: 0.240601
      • Vacant Land General: 0.481202
      • Vacant Land FZ and RCZ: 0.240601
      • Vacant Land GRZ: 0.481202
      • Residential Retirement Villages: 0.216541
  • Impact: Ensures Moorabool Shire’s general rates are calculated using updated, compliant rate-in-the-dollar values across all differential land classes, maintaining alignment with the Fair Go Rates System and the rate cap.
  • Next steps:
    • These amended rates are applied as part of the finalised 2024/25 rating framework following the Council resolution on 17 July 2024.
    • The budget amendment package is also made publicly available (see separate decision item below).

Adopt corrected estimated total land values for 2024/25 rating purposes

  • Context: After the budget was adopted on 26 June 2024, Council officers identified corrected total land valuation figures (reducing the overall total land value), requiring consequential amendments to keep the rating calculations compliant.
  • Details:
    • Date of Council decision: 17 July 2024 (Special Council Meeting)
    • Correction relates to the total estimated value of land by differential land class (referenced in the report as amendments to valuation table content, including Table 4.1.1 (f)).
    • Council resolved to adopt the following estimated total land values for 2024/25:
      • Commercial & Industrial Rate: $644,246,000
      • Commercial & Industrial Vacant Land: $31,625,000
      • Extractive Industry Rate: $94,807,000
      • Farm Rate: $2,251,513,000
      • General Rate: $10,569,955,000
      • Vacant Land General: $260,686,000
      • Vacant Land FZ and RCZ: $730,860,000
      • Vacant Land GRZ: $285,625,000
      • Residential Retirement Villages: $130,570,000
    • Total Value of Land (2024/25): $14,999,887,000
    • The report notes the prior adopted total was $15.069b, with the corrected total being $14.999b (a reduction of approximately $70.0m, ~0.45%).
  • Impact: Provides corrected valuation totals used in the 2024/25 rating calculations, ensuring fairness and compliance with the rate cap and Fair Go Rates system while keeping the rest of the adopted budget unchanged.
  • Next steps:
    • Proceed with applying these corrected totals alongside the amended rate-in-the-dollar values (Decision item above).
    • Make the budget amendments publicly available on Council’s website (Decision item below).

Make 2024/25 budget amendments publicly available on Council’s website

  • Context: Council’s amendments to valuation and rate-in-the-dollar values must be transparent and accessible to the community following identification of post-adoption valuation corrections.
  • Details:
    • Date of Council decision: 17 July 2024
    • Resolution included an explicit requirement:
      • “Makes the amendments to the 2024/25 Budget publicly available on its website.”
    • The report’s communications approach states the amendments will be available on Council’s website.
  • Impact: Improves community transparency regarding how the 2024/25 budget/rates were adjusted to meet compliance requirements.
  • Next steps:
    • Publish the amended 2024/25 budget materials online following the 17 July 2024 resolution.
    • Continue with any related public communications associated with the rating/budget amendment package.

Commence four-week community consultation on the draft Rural Land Use Strategy

  • Context: Moorabool Shire is experiencing strong peri-urban growth pressures, including demand for rural living and proposals to rezone agricultural land for residential purposes—creating risks to agricultural viability and future food security.
  • Details:
    • Date of Council decision: 17 July 2024
    • Council resolved to:
      • Undertake community consultation of the draft Rural Land Use Strategy for a period of four weeks
      • Note that feedback would be collated and brought back to Council after consultation
    • The report also describes the intended consultation window as July/August (noting the draft consultation was proposed as 30 days in the “Next steps” section).
    • Consultation engagement approach (as described):
      • Level of engagement: Consult
      • Stakeholders: general public, residents, and relevant agencies
      • Activities: release draft documents via newspaper, social media, and website, including a summary document
      • Location: various (online and public communications)
  • Impact: Enables community and agency input into how Council will manage rural land use, development, and protections (including agricultural land quality considerations) through a consistent planning policy framework.
  • Next steps:
    • Run the four-week consultation period in July/August 2024.
    • Collate feedback and submissions after the consultation closes.
    • Bring a summary of feedback and proposed changes back to Council for consideration (Decision item below).

Bring consultation feedback and proposed Rural Land Use Strategy changes back to Council

  • Context: Council’s adopted approach for the Rural Land Use Strategy is to consult first, then assess submissions and refine the draft before final adoption.
  • Details:
    • Date of Council decision: 17 July 2024
    • Council resolution included:
      • After feedback is collated, a summary of the feedback and any changes to the draft Strategy be brought back to Council for consideration
    • The report’s “Next steps” further states:
      • Following consultation, submissions will be considered
      • A final Strategy will be brought back to Councillors for consideration
  • Impact: Ensures community input directly informs the final Rural Land Use Strategy, improving legitimacy and likelihood of effective implementation.
  • Next steps:
    • Officers collate submissions after the four-week consultation.
    • A report is brought back to Council summarising:
      • key themes from consultation feedback
      • recommended amendments to the draft Strategy
    • Council then considers the final Strategy for adoption (timing to be set by the post-consultation reporting cycle).

Update Rural Land Use Strategy policy positions (zones, overlays, agricultural protection) for consultation

  • Context: The draft Rural Land Use Strategy was updated to reflect councillor feedback and to clarify policy positions affecting rural zoning/overlays and protections for high-quality agricultural land before public consultation.
  • Details:
    • Date of Council decision to consult: 17 July 2024
    • The report lists specific policy position updates included in the draft for consultation:
      • Rural Activity Zone (RAZ):
        • Strategy now makes reference to the RAZ as an option in rural areas
      • Rural Living Zone (RLZ):
        • Under implementation actions, areas already showing RLZ characteristics can be considered for inclusion into the RLZ
        • Minimum lot size to be determined through future work and can be nuanced based on desired outcomes and community feedback
      • Environmental Significance Overlay (ESO):
        • Remove reference to applying the ESO within Precincts 1 and 2
        • Insert a policy position in the Statement of Intent to discourage development or land uses that would permanently remove high quality agricultural from future use
      • Rural Conservation Zone (RCZ):
        • Remove reference to expansion of the RCZ
        • Leave current application of RCZ as is
      • Agricultural protection / land use intent:
        • Renewable energy support is conditional: Council is open only where initiatives do not negatively impact high quality agricultural land, agricultural uses, or landscapes
        • Plantations guidance: consider locations that allow appropriate harvesting/transport and won’t negatively affect infrastructure or communities
        • Productive vs viability: productive land includes potential of underutilised land and future use; viability/sustainability relates to whether proposed uses/supporting development are likely to be viable/sustainable into the future
  • Impact: Provides clearer, more targeted rural land use guidance for consultation, strengthening protections for productive agricultural land while clarifying how zoning/overlays may be used in rural areas.
  • Next steps:
    • These updated policy positions are included in the draft documents released for the four-week consultation.
    • Consultation feedback may lead to further amendments, which will then be reported back to Council (Decision item above).

Community Impact

  • Ratepayers (all Shire residents): Updated 2024/25 “rate in the dollar” cents-per-dollar for different land classes to ensure Council complies with the Victorian rate cap and Fair Go Rates System
  • Commercial & industrial landowners: Revised general rate and vacant commercial/industrial land rate in the dollar (e.g., Commercial & Industrial Rate 0.360902; Vacant Land 0.481202) affecting annual council rates payable
  • Farm and rural property owners: Revised Farm Rate in the dollar (0.187669) and vacant land rates for applicable rural zones, changing annual rates for eligible properties
  • Vacant land owners: Changes to Vacant Land rates depending on zone/class (General, FZ/RCZ, GRZ) impacting rates for vacant lots
  • Rural residents and landowners: Draft Rural Land Use Strategy released for 4 weeks of community consultation (July/August) shaping future planning decisions for rural land use and development
  • Rural landowners considering rezoning/development: Strategy includes policy positions to discourage permanent removal of high-quality agricultural land from future use, influencing whether rezoning and rural living-style development is supported

Other Notable Items

  • Minor valuation and “rate in the dollar” changes to comply with rate cap and Fair Go Rates.
  • Community consultation approved for the draft Rural Land Use Strategy (4 weeks).
  • Strategy discussion covered rural zones, overlays, and discouraging permanent loss of high-quality agricultural land.
  • Renewable energy and plantation guidance added: support only if impacts to agriculture/landscapes are avoided.
  • Next steps: feedback summary and any draft strategy changes to return to Council after consultation.

Tech & Innovation Notes

  • Council budget amendments made publicly available on Council’s website (digital publication of documents).
  • Community consultation planned via “newspaper, social media, website” for the Rural Land Use Strategy (online engagement channels).

Adopt Council’s updated Risk Management Framework and Risk Management Policy

  • Receive community submissions and note Elaine Recreation Reserve renaming is not supported
  • Commence four-week community consultation on the Draft Bacchus Marsh Town Centre Structure Plan
  • Receive report on provision of a snake removal service for 2024/25 summer
  • and 2 more

6 decisions · 12 min read
Official minutes of the Moorabool Shire Council meeting on 3 July 2024

AI-generated summary. Written by a language model from the official minutes. Check the source before you quote or rely on it.

Key Decisions & Outcomes

  • Adopt Council’s updated Risk Management Framework and Risk Management Policy.
  • Receive community submissions and note Elaine Recreation Reserve renaming is not supported.
  • Commence four-week community consultation on the Draft Bacchus Marsh Town Centre Structure Plan.
  • Receive report on provision of a snake removal service for 2024/25 summer.
  • Adopt the Young Communities Strategy 2024–2028.
  • Receive Community Asset Committee minutes for Millbrook, Lal Lal, and Greendale assets.

Detailed Descriptions

Adopt Council’s updated Risk Management Framework and Risk Management Policy

  • Context: Council undertook a review of its Risk Management Framework and Risk Management Policy to align with best practice and ISO Standard 31000:2018. The updated documents were presented to the Audit & Risk Committee for review prior to Council consideration.
  • Details:
    • Meeting date: Wednesday, 3 July 2024
    • Author: Celeste Gregory, Executive Manager – Democratic Support & Corporate Governance
    • Authoriser: Derek Madden, Chief Executive Officer
    • Prior review:
      • Audit & Risk Committee meeting held 15 November 2023 (presented for review)
      • Audit & Risk Committee meeting held 15 May 2024 (review of further updates)
    • Key enhancements included:
      • Expanded definition of risk to distinguish Strategic, Corporate and Operational risks
      • Added Council’s risk appetite statements and risk tolerance levels by risk category
      • Revised accountabilities/responsibilities to match current organisational and governance structures
      • Governance structure references:
        • Local Government Act 2020
        • Institute of Internal Auditors Three Lines Model
        • ISACA COSO model
      • Methodology/process updates aligned to ISO 31000:2018, including:
        • Increased focus on communication and consultation
        • Added risk identification techniques (in appendices)
        • Use of ALARP (As Low As Reasonably Practicable) for risk analysis
        • Clearer distinction between inherent vs residual risk, including control categorisation
        • Monitoring frequency based on level of residual risk
        • IT system supporting Council risk registers
        • Reporting frequency to the Executive and Audit & Risk Committee
    • Resolution: Council adopted the Risk Management Framework and Policy (CARRIED)
  • Impact: Strengthens Council’s governance and decision-making by ensuring risks are identified, analysed, monitored, and reported consistently and in line with ISO 31000:2018—supporting safer, more accountable operations across strategic, corporate, and operational areas.
  • Next steps:
    • The adopted Framework and Policy take effect for Council’s ongoing risk management processes.
    • Ongoing reporting and monitoring will continue through the established risk governance arrangements (including reporting to the Executive and Audit & Risk Committee).

Receive community submissions and note Elaine Recreation Reserve renaming is not supported

  • Context: Council received a petition and then ran a public consultation process on renaming Elaine Recreation Reserve to Ron Read Recreation Reserve. Council considered the volume and composition of community submissions before deciding the proposal did not have support.
  • Details:
    • Petition received from residents to rename the reserve:
      • Petition received at Ordinary Meeting on 5 June 2024 (noted as an “objecting petition” with signatures below)
      • Initial petition background noted as received at Ordinary Meeting on 1 June 2022 from 106 residents of Elaine and surrounding townships
    • Public consultation:
      • Consultation period: 30 days (proposal published in April 2024)
      • Total submissions received: 312
        • 56 supporters
        • 255 objectors
        • 1 objecting petition containing 113 signatures (received at the Ordinary Meeting on 5 June 2024)
      • Support level summary: 82% objected (and 18% supported)
    • Council resolution outcome:
      • Council receives the submissions and notes the proposal is not supported and no longer complies with the Place Naming Policy and Geographic Names Victoria (GNV) Place Naming Rules
    • Resolution status: DEFERRED (as recorded in the minutes)
  • Impact: Confirms community opposition is overwhelming and reduces the likelihood of the proposal progressing to Geographic Names Victoria, protecting Council from reputational risk and potential community dissent.
  • Next steps:
    • Council will communicate the consultation outcome to relevant stakeholders (petitioners/supporters/objectors).
    • Further engagement is planned for July/August 2024 to inform the community of Council’s decision (via letters and “Have Your Say” website).

Commence four-week community consultation on the Draft Bacchus Marsh Town Centre Structure Plan

  • Context: The existing Bacchus Marsh Town Centre Structure Plan (adopted 2011, implemented via planning scheme amendment 2016) needed updating to reflect growth, changing trends, and the vision in the Bacchus Marsh Urban Growth Framework (2018). Council considered the draft Structure Plan and supported community consultation.
  • Details:
    • Meeting date: Wednesday, 3 July 2024
    • Purpose of report: present the draft Bacchus Marsh Town Centre Structure Plan and seek support to undertake community consultation
    • Draft Structure Plan consultation:
      • Duration: four weeks
      • Timing: July 2024 (explicitly proposed as “four-week period in July 2024”)
    • Consultation approach:
      • Direct mail notification to businesses and residents within the study area and a 400m distance surrounding the town centre core area
      • Broader notification via newspaper, website and social media
    • Resolution: Council undertakes community consultation for four weeks and will receive a summary of feedback and any changes back to Council
    • Key planning context (as provided):
      • Study area generally bounded by:
        • railway line to the south
        • Grant Street to the west
        • commercial centre to the north
      • Eastern boundary designed to exclude residential areas already considered through the Bacchus Marsh Housing Strategy (Amendment C79, 2018)
    • Financial implications:
      • Costs of consultation accommodated in the Growth and Development budget
  • Impact: Enables residents and stakeholders to influence the refreshed 15-year planning framework for Bacchus Marsh town centre land use and development, supporting a vibrant, accessible, and economically active town centre.
  • Next steps:
    • Run the four-week consultation in July 2024
    • Prepare a consultation summary and bring the draft Structure Plan (with any proposed changes) back to Council after the consultation period.

Receive report on provision of a snake removal service for 2024/25 summer

  • Context: A Notice of Motion requested a report on whether Moorabool Shire Council should provide a snake removal/catching service for residents during the 2024/25 summer. Council considered costed options and service trial parameters.
  • Details:
    • Notice of Motion:
      • Presented by Cr Rod Ward at Ordinary Meeting on 6 December 2023
    • Council action:
      • Council receives the report for consideration of a snake removal service for summer 2024/25
    • Estimated costs (trial):
      • Estimated cost of a snake catching service trial: $40,000 to $50,000
      • Service period for evaluation: 1 November 2024 to 31 March 2025
    • Service delivery model proposed (if trial proceeds):
      • Outsource to licensed snake catcher(s) holding valid licences under:
        • Wildlife Act 1975
        • Catchment and Land Protection Act 1994
      • Engage via competitive tender
    • Callout cost benchmark:
      • Callout ranges reported: $150 to $350
      • Anticipated number of calls for trial: 150 to 250
    • Proposed exclusions (to prioritise community safety impact):
      • Industrial/commercial premises
      • Unknown snake location or snake sighted some time ago
      • Resident/occupier not home during callout
      • Public places (e.g. 1000+ Steps Bald Hill) where no immediate threat exists
      • Snakes in natural habitat (illegal to remove from natural habitat)
      • Rural locations more than 10m from a dwelling
    • Evaluation approach if trial implemented:
      • Location/spread of calls
      • Type of snakes identified
      • Time to respond
      • Number successfully located/relocated
      • Actual costs
  • Impact: Provides a structured basis for deciding whether to trial a service that could reduce snake-related safety risks, while also addressing budget uncertainty and managing community expectations.
  • Next steps:
    • No trial decision is recorded in the minutes—Council has received the report for consideration.
    • If Council chooses to proceed, a concurrent community awareness campaign would be implemented, and an evaluation/report would be prepared after 31 March 2025.

Adopt the Young Communities Strategy 2024–2028

  • Context: Council developed a draft Young Communities Strategy to guide work with children, young people, and families across the municipality. The draft was exhibited for public feedback and then returned to Council for adoption.
  • Details:
    • Meeting date: Wednesday, 3 July 2024
    • Purpose: provide feedback from the public exhibition period and share additional actions and feedback
    • Public exhibition period:
      • 14 April to 12 May 2024 (four weeks)
    • Consultation methods and participation:
      • Formal “Have Your Say” survey:
        • 126 people downloaded the document
        • 17 people contributed feedback
      • Informal engagement:
        • 56 people engaged
        • 27 contributed feedback
      • Informal channels included:
        • community pop ups
        • face-to-face consultations
        • Councillor briefing
      • Feedback locations included: Ballan, Pentland Hills, Elaine, Bacchus Marsh and surrounds
    • Adoption vote:
      • Resolution: Council adopted the Young Communities Strategy 2024–2028
      • Carried 5/2
      • In favour: Crs Tonia Dudzik, Moira Berry, David Edwards, Ally Munari, Rod Ward
      • Against: Crs Tom Sullivan, Paul Tatchell
    • Added actions based on feedback (examples):
      • Health and Wellbeing: advocate for an indoor swimming pool; seek funding for programs/services/infrastructure
      • Community Engagement/Participation: advocate for a centrally located designated youth space; deliver events across the municipality
      • Education/Learning: advocate for more secondary school options in Ballan and Bacchus Marsh; advocate for before/after school options
      • Safety/Inclusion: promote cultural connection events; advocate for locally based homelessness supports; promote road safety and access to paths
  • Impact: Establishes a municipality-wide, community-informed direction for the next four years, improving coordination and advocacy for services supporting young people and families.
  • Next steps:
    • Implement the strategy through existing operations budget (no additional financial implications stated).
    • Continue engagement and service/provider alignment as actions are delivered over 2024–2028.

Receive Community Asset Committee minutes for Millbrook, Lal Lal, and Greendale assets

  • Context: Council has Community Asset Committees established under section 65 of the Local Government Act 2020 to manage and maintain community assets. Council received committee minutes for key assets to keep governance and maintenance decisions transparent.
  • Details:
    • Meeting date: Wednesday, 3 July 2024
    • Resolution: Council receives the following Community Asset Committee minutes:
      1. Millbrook Community Centre Community Asset Committee
    • Minutes for meeting held 31 January 2024
      2. Lal Lal Soldiers’ Memorial Hall Community Asset Committee
    • Minutes for meeting held 6 February 2024
      3. Greendale Recreation Reserves Community Asset Committee
    • Minutes for meeting held 18 April 2024
    • Author/Authoriser:
      • Author: Kaylene Bowker, Executive Assistant
      • Authoriser: Leigh McCallum, General Manager Community Strengthening
    • Legal/structural context (as stated):
      • Committees manage and maintain community assets
      • Council may delegate functions/powers via Instrument of Delegation (with limits under section 11(2) of the Local Government Act 2020)
  • Impact: Ensures Council oversight of community asset governance, maintenance priorities, and committee activity for Millbrook, Lal Lal, and Greendale.
  • Next steps:
    • Minutes are received by Council; committee operations continue under their delegated arrangements.
    • Any matters requiring Council action (if raised in minutes) would be progressed through future Council reports/resolutions as needed.

Community Impact

  • Council-wide (governance and service delivery): Adoption of an updated Risk Management Framework and Policy aligned to ISO 31000:2018, improving how Council identifies, monitors, and reports risks across strategic, corporate, and operational activities
  • Bacchus Marsh town centre residents and businesses: Four-week community consultation on the draft Bacchus Marsh Town Centre Structure Plan (July 2024), which may lead to changes to planning controls and future development priorities over the next 15 years
  • Bacchus Marsh town centre residents and visitors: Potential future implementation of the Structure Plan’s focus areas (e.g., civic precinct, improved access/mobility, streetscape/public realm improvements, and guided redevelopment) subject to Council decisions after consultation
  • Elaine residents and local sporting users: Proposal to rename Elaine Recreation Reserve to Ron Read Recreation Reserve will be refused/not progressed due to lack of community support and non-compliance with place naming rules, maintaining the current reserve name
  • Moorabool residents (peri-urban areas): Consideration of a potential 2024/25 trial for a free snake catching/removal service (estimated $40,000–$50,000) with exclusions and an awareness campaign, affecting how residents seek help for snake encounters
  • Children, young people, and families across the municipality: Adoption of the Young Communities Strategy 2024–2028 (including advocacy for secondary school options, youth space, and additional supports/events), shaping future Council priorities and programs for ages 0–25

Other Notable Items

  • Community feedback on Elaine Recreation Reserve renaming: 255 objectors vs 56 supporters.
  • Proposed further engagement planned after renaming decision (letters, “Have Your Say” website July/August 2024).
  • Draft Bacchus Marsh Town Centre Structure Plan consultation approved for four weeks in July 2024.
  • Young Communities Strategy 2024–2028 adopted; added actions include advocating for a centrally located youth space.
  • Notice of Motion No. 320 (sister city with Gharb, Gozo) was lost 3/4.

Tech & Innovation Notes

  • Council meeting livestreaming (online recording/streaming of proceedings).
  • Risk Management Framework and Policy adoption, including an “IT system supporting risk registers across Council” and alignment to ISO 31000:2018 (risk governance/controls).
  • Public consultation using online tools (e.g., “Have Your Say” website/surveys; social media and website channels for consultation).
  • Bacchus Marsh Town Centre Structure Plan consultation using online surveys, social media, and a project webpage.
  • Young Communities Strategy consultation using an online “Have Your Say” survey and social media/email sharing.
  • Use of online portal for required overseas sister city notifications (Foreign Arrangements Scheme Online Portal referenced).

Adopt Council Plan 2021–2025 (2024 update) with minor page-43 correction

  • Adopt 2024/25 Annual Budget and associated fees and charges
  • Set 2024/25 differential rates and service charges for 1 July 2024–30 June 2025
  • Make the 2024/25 Budget publicly available on Council’s website
  • and 2 more

6 decisions · 8 min read
Official minutes of the Moorabool Shire Council meeting on 26 June 2024

AI-generated summary. Written by a language model from the official minutes. Check the source before you quote or rely on it.

Key Decisions & Outcomes

  • Adopt Council Plan 2021–2025 (2024 update) with minor page-43 correction.
  • Adopt 2024/25 Annual Budget and associated fees and charges.
  • Set 2024/25 differential rates and service charges for 1 July 2024–30 June 2025.
  • Make the 2024/25 Budget publicly available on Council’s website.
  • Receive and consider four public budget submissions; provide responses to submitters.
  • Confirm no additional infrastructure or policy actions under “Any Other Business.”

Detailed Descriptions

Adopt Council Plan 2021–2025 (2024 update) with minor page-43 correction

  • Context: Council undertook its annual planning review to ensure the Council Plan 2021–2025 remained current, and placed the 2024 update on public exhibition for community input.
  • Details:
    • Public exhibition period for the draft Council Plan 2021–2025 (2024 update): 2 May 2024 to 30 May 2024.
    • Submissions received by the close of the exhibition period: none.
    • Minor correction required after consultation: removal of repetition on page 43 (specifically, three items on page 43 under Objective 2, Priority 1 were inadvertently included in the completed actions list and were removed before finalisation).
    • Adoption decision made at the Special Council Meeting: 26 June 2024.
    • Resolution: moved by Cr Rod Ward, seconded by Cr Tonia Dudzik to adopt the plan in Attachment 1, including updates noted at the 12 June 2024 Special Meeting.
  • Impact: Provides an up-to-date strategic framework for how Council will deliver priorities and actions over the 2024–2025 period, with a corrected document ensuring accuracy for community and internal planning.
  • Next steps: Following adoption, the Council Plan will be placed on Council’s website.

Adopt 2024/25 Annual Budget and associated fees and charges

  • Context: Under Section 94 of the Local Government Act 2020, Council was required to formally adopt the 2024/25 Annual Budget by 30 June 2024, following public exhibition and consideration of submissions.
  • Details:
    • Proposed budget public exhibition period: 2 May 2024 to 30 May 2024 (inclusive).
    • Submissions received by the statutory cut-off date (30 May 2024): four (4) written submissions.
    • Submissions were considered at the 12 June 2024 Special Council Meeting, with Council resolutions made for:
      1) receiving the four submissions,
      2) considering matters raised for the 26 June 2024 adoption meeting, and
      3) providing responses to submitters after adoption.
    • Adoption decision made at the Special Council Meeting: 26 June 2024.
    • Resolution:
      • Adopt the 2024/25 Annual Budget (Attachment 1) for Section 94 purposes.
      • Adopt the fees and charges as attached to the report.
    • Budget rate increase context noted in the report: 2.75%, aligned with the Fair Go Rates System (FGRS).
  • Impact: Locks in Council’s annual financial plan for 2024/25, including the funding model for services, capital works, and the fees/charges that support service delivery.
  • Next steps: After adoption, Council must publish the budget publicly (see separate decision) and provide responses to each of the four submitters.

Set 2024/25 differential rates and service charges for 1 July 2024–30 June 2025

  • Context: Council needed to set the statutory rating structure (differential rates) and service charges for the 12-month rating period beginning 1 July 2024.
  • Details:
    • Period covered: 1 July 2024 to 30 June 2025.
    • Differential rates (cents per $CIV) adopted for 2024/25:
      • Commercial & Industrial Rate: 0.358737
      • Commercial & Industrial Vacant Land: 0.478316
      • Extractive Industry Rate: 0.746173
      • Farm Rate: 0.186543
      • General Rate: 0.239158
      • Vacant Land General: 0.478316
      • Vacant Land FZ and RCZ: 0.239158
      • Vacant Land GRZ: 0.478316
      • Residential Retirement Villages: 0.215242
    • Service charges adopted under Section 162 of the Act:
      • Waste Management: $118.00 (per rateable property)
      • Domestic Waste Collection: $256.00 (per rateable property)
      • Kerbside Green waste: $95.00 (per rateable property)
      • State Landfill Levy Charge: $65.00 (per rateable property)
    • Decision date: 26 June 2024 (as part of the budget adoption resolution).
  • Impact: Determines how rates and waste/service charges are applied across different property categories, directly affecting household and business cost of ownership for the year.
  • Next steps: These rates and service charges will be used to issue 2024/25 rating notices and fund the services and waste management arrangements for the year.

Make the 2024/25 Budget publicly available on Council’s website

  • Context: As part of the statutory and transparency requirements following adoption of the Annual Budget, Council needed to ensure the adopted budget is accessible to the community.
  • Details:
    • Decision date: 26 June 2024.
    • Resolution included: “Makes the 2024/25 Budget publicly available on its website.”
    • Budget adoption occurred at the Special Council Meeting on 26 June 2024.
    • Public notice timing also noted in the report timetable: 27 June 2024 (Public Notice – Adoption of 2024/25 Annual Budget).
  • Impact: Improves community transparency and allows residents to review how Council will allocate resources for services and capital works in 2024/25.
  • Next steps: Publish the adopted 2024/25 Annual Budget on Council’s website following the 26 June 2024 adoption decision (and align with the 27 June 2024 public notice).

Receive and consider four public budget submissions; provide responses to submitters

  • Context: Council was required by the Local Government Act process to invite submissions on the proposed budget, consider them, and then respond to submitters after adoption.
  • Details:
    • Public exhibition period for the proposed budget: 2 May 2024 to 30 May 2024.
    • Number of written submissions received by 30 May 2024: four (4).
    • Submitters and themes (as recorded in the minutes’ response table):
      1) S Venditti–Taylor: concerns about road audits/standards and spending priorities (including Stonehill stormwater issues and Bacchus Marsh/Maddingley Darley road works).
      2) P Le Lievre – Ballarat Cricket Association: request for annual contribution for turf cricket wickets at Darley Park and Maddingley Park (requested $17,000 total; $8,500 per club).
      3) Thomas Shaw – Bacchus Marsh Baseball Association: urgent safety/maintenance concerns for Masons Lane baseball field; estimate for refurbishment under $20,000 with Council parks team assistance; request for a plan/works.
      4) J White – Wallace Recreation Reserve Committee of Management: request/support for Wallace Recreation Reserve Oval Redevelopment, referencing a business case and a requested Council contribution of $709,060 ex-GST.
    • Council process resolutions (as stated in the budget report):
      • Note verbal and written submissions considered at the 12 June 2024 Special Meeting.
      • Adopt the budget on 26 June 2024 with consideration of matters raised.
      • Provide responses to each submitter after adoption.
  • Impact: Ensures community input is formally considered in the final budget decision-making, and improves trust through direct feedback to residents and organisations.
  • Next steps: Council officers prepare and issue responses to all four submitters following the 26 June 2024 adoption.

Confirm no additional infrastructure or policy actions under “Any Other Business”

  • Context: The Special Council Meeting agenda included an “Any Other Business” section to capture matters not otherwise addressed in the formal reports.
  • Details:
    • “Any Other Business” item: Nil.
    • Meeting closure context: the meeting proceeded to closure after confirming no additional matters were raised.
    • Meeting date and time: Wednesday, 26 June 2024, closed at 6.04pm.
  • Impact: Confirms that Council did not approve any further infrastructure or policy actions outside the listed budget and planning decisions.
  • Next steps: None required under “Any Other Business”; the meeting proceeds to formal closure and implementation of the adopted decisions.

Community Impact

  • All residents (Shire of Moorabool): Adopted Council Plan 2021–2025 (2024 update) sets Council priorities and service actions for 2024/25 onward, including how resources are allocated to meet community needs
  • Ratepayers (all rate categories): 2024/25 rate increase of 2.75% applied from 1 July 2024 to 30 June 2025 (with different cents/$CIV rates by land type)
  • Households and property owners (waste services): Waste management and domestic waste service charges set for 2024/25 ($118 waste management; $256 domestic waste collection; $95 kerbside green waste; $65 state landfill levy charge)
  • Residents using local roads and drainage: Council’s budget and planning framework continues funding and governance for road and drainage infrastructure, including responses to concerns about road works quality and maintenance follow-up
  • Sports users and nearby residents (Darley Park & Maddingley Park): Ongoing consideration of support for turf cricket wickets may affect maintenance/upgrade planning for cricket facilities used by local clubs
  • Springbank Football Netball Club, players, and spectators (Wallace Recreation Reserve): Business case process for oval redevelopment with potential Council funding contribution ($709,060 ex-GST) aimed at improving playability and reducing wet-weather cancellations ahead of the 2025 season

Other Notable Items

  • No public submissions received for the Council Plan 2021–2025 (2024 update).
  • Budget consultation received four written submissions, including road works and sport facility funding requests.
  • Officers to consider cricket wicket support alternatives for Ballarat Cricket Association.
  • Masons Lane baseball field: officers to review options and report on sustainable funding.
  • Wallace Recreation Reserve oval redevelopment business case requested for potential 2024/25 capital funding.

Tech & Innovation Notes

  • Council consultation and public submission process conducted via Council’s “Have Your Say” webpage, with submissions accepted via webpage, email, or post, and the adopted documents to be published on Council’s website.

Note no submissions received for Draft Council Plan 2021–2025 (2024 update)

  • Refer Council Plan 2021–2025 (2024 update) for adoption at 26 June 2024 special meeting
  • Receive four public submissions to the proposed 2024/25 Annual Budget
  • Consider budget submissions at 26 June 2024 special meeting before adopting 2024/25 Annual Budget
  • and 2 more

6 decisions · 8 min read
Official minutes of the Moorabool Shire Council meeting on 12 June 2024

AI-generated summary. Written by a language model from the official minutes. Check the source before you quote or rely on it.

Key Decisions & Outcomes

  • Note no submissions received for Draft Council Plan 2021–2025 (2024 update)
  • Refer Council Plan 2021–2025 (2024 update) for adoption at 26 June 2024 special meeting
  • Receive four public submissions to the proposed 2024/25 Annual Budget
  • Consider budget submissions at 26 June 2024 special meeting before adopting 2024/25 Annual Budget
  • Provide responses to each budget submitter following 2024/25 Annual Budget adoption
  • Wallace Recreation Reserve Oval redevelopment business case to support potential 2024/25 capital funding consideration

Detailed Descriptions

Note no submissions received for Draft Council Plan 2021–2025 (2024 update)

  • Context: The Council Plan 2021–2025 (2024 update) was placed on public exhibition as part of the annual planning process, with submissions invited from the community. This was the final year of the four-year Council Plan cycle.
  • Details:
    • Draft Council Plan 2021–2025 (2024 update) exhibited from 2 May 2024 to 30 May 2024.
    • Submissions were invited “in the prescribed manner” via Council’s consultation channels.
    • At the close of the submission period (30 May 2024), no submissions were received.
    • The report notes the proposed changes were minor (e.g., grammar, statistics, formatting, data sources, and small amendments to actions), and therefore did not trigger a further deliberative engagement requirement.
  • Impact: Council can proceed to adoption without needing to address community concerns through formal submission consideration for the Council Plan update.
  • Next steps: The Council Plan 2021–2025 (2024 update) was referred to a Special Meeting of Council on Wednesday, 26 June 2024 for adoption.

Refer Council Plan 2021–2025 (2024 update) for adoption at 26 June 2024 special meeting

  • Context: With no submissions received and only minor amendments proposed, Council needed to move the Council Plan update to formal adoption.
  • Details:
    • A resolution was carried at the Special Council Meeting on Wednesday, 12 June 2024 recommending adoption at the next special meeting.
    • The adoption meeting date specified in the resolution was Wednesday, 26 June 2024.
    • The resolution recommended that the “final report for consideration” be presented for adoption at that 26 June 2024 special meeting.
  • Impact: Ensures statutory and planning continuity by keeping the Council Plan aligned with the annual actions and strategic priorities for 2024/25.
  • Next steps: Council adoption of the Council Plan 2021–2025 (2024 update) at 26 June 2024.

Receive four public submissions to the proposed 2024/25 Annual Budget

  • Context: Council followed the Local Government Act 2020 budgeting process, including public notice and a submission period, before adopting the 2024/25 Annual Budget.
  • Details:
    • Proposed 2024/25 Annual Budget was on public display from 2 May 2024 to 30 May 2024.
    • A total of four (4) written submissions were received by the closing date (30 May 2024).
    • Submitters (as recorded for the hearing at the 12 June 2024 meeting):
      • 1. Steve Venditti–Taylor (Objector) — “Works on Roads within the Shire”
      • 2. Peter Le Lievre — Ballarat Cricket Association (Supporter) — Turf Cricket Wickets at Darley Park and Maddingley Park (seeking annual contribution)
      • 3. Thomas Shaw — Bacchus Marsh Baseball Association (Supporter) — Refurbishment of Baseball Field at Masons Lane
      • 4. Jacob White — Wallace Recreation Reserve Committee of Management (Supporter) — Wallace Recreation Reserve Oval Redevelopment
  • Impact: Council received community input across multiple service areas (roads, sport and recreation facilities), which needed to be considered before budget adoption.
  • Next steps: Submissions were to be considered by Council at the 26 June 2024 Special Meeting prior to adopting the Annual Budget.

Consider budget submissions at 26 June 2024 special meeting before adopting 2024/25 Annual Budget

  • Context: After receiving submissions and confirming submitters’ intent to be heard, Council was required to consider submissions prior to final budget adoption.
  • Details:
    • The report states Council should consider the four submissions before adopting the budget.
    • The specified adoption/consideration meeting was Wednesday, 26 June 2024.
    • The process included:
      • Public display and submissions closing 30 May 2024
      • Hearing/consideration at the special meeting before adoption
  • Impact: Provides procedural fairness and ensures community concerns and requests are assessed against budget priorities and statutory requirements.
  • Next steps: Council consideration of all four submissions at 26 June 2024, followed by adoption of the 2024/25 Annual Budget.

Provide responses to each budget submitter following 2024/25 Annual Budget adoption

  • Context: The budgeting process included not only hearing submissions but also communicating outcomes after Council’s decision.
  • Details:
    • The resolution at the 12 June 2024 special meeting included that Council:
      • “Provides a response to each Submitter following the adoption of the 2024/25 Annual Budget.”
    • This response obligation was explicitly included as part of the Council’s actions after adoption.
  • Impact: Improves transparency and accountability by closing the loop with submitters after Council decides on the budget.
  • Next steps: After the 26 June 2024 adoption decision, Council will issue responses to each of the four submitters.

Wallace Recreation Reserve Oval redevelopment business case to support potential 2024/25 capital funding consideration

  • Context: One of the four budget submissions included a formal business case request linked to a capital project identified as the highest priority in the Wallace Recreation Reserve Master Plan.
  • Details:
    • Submitter: Jacob White on behalf of the Wallace Recreation Reserve Committee of Management (and the Springbank Football Netball Club).
    • Project: Wallace Recreation Reserve Oval Redevelopment
    • Project status/priority:
      • Described as the highest priority project in the Wallace Recreation Reserve Master Plan 2024–2033.
    • Funding request:
      • Council requested the business case to support a potential Council funding contribution of $709,060 ex-GST.
    • Purpose of business case:
      • To enable officers and Councillors to fully consider the project and determine whether funding would be allocated in Council’s 2024–2025 Capital Works Budget.
    • Timing:
      • The business case was provided as part of the budget submission process considered ahead of the 26 June 2024 budget adoption.
  • Impact: If funded, the redevelopment is intended to improve oval condition (particularly in wet weather), reduce disruptions to training and matches, and support club recruitment and retention—including a planned highlight for the club’s 100th Year Anniversary Celebrations.
  • Next steps: Council will consider the business case during the 26 June 2024 special meeting deliberations on the 2024/25 Annual Budget, including whether to allocate the requested capital funding in the 2024–2025 Capital Works Budget.

Community Impact

  • Residents (Moorabool Shire): Adoption of the Council Plan 2021–2025 (2024 update) with no public submissions received, meaning only minor administrative/action updates proceed without major strategic changes
  • Residents (Moorabool Shire): 2024/25 Annual Budget will be shaped by consideration of 4 community submissions before final adoption at the 26 June 2024 Special Council meeting
  • Road users/residents (Moorabool Shire): Potential budget and works prioritisation changes in response to concerns about road construction quality, follow-up works, stormwater issues, and spending effectiveness (raised by a submitter)
  • Cricket participants and families (Darley Park & Maddingley Park areas): Possible inclusion of an annual contribution to support turf cricket wickets and volunteer capacity (request for $17,000 total)
  • Baseball participants and families (Bacchus Marsh, Masons Lane): Possible funding/works to refurbish the baseball field and improve safety conditions due to reported unsafe playing surface and inadequate maintenance
  • Local sports clubs and match-goers (Wallace Recreation Reserve / Springbank Football Netball Club area): Possible capital works funding consideration for oval redevelopment to reduce wet-weather deterioration, prevent training/match cancellations, and support club recruitment (project business case seeking $709,060 ex-GST)

Other Notable Items

  • No public submissions received for the Draft Council Plan 2021–2025 (2024 update).
  • Four written submissions received for the Proposed 2024/25 Annual Budget.
  • Road maintenance concerns raised: audits, Australian standards, and unfinished follow-ups.
  • Cricket and baseball facility funding requests: turf wickets, field safety, and urgent refurbishment.
  • Wallace Recreation Reserve oval redevelopment flagged as highest priority for 2025 season readiness.

Tech & Innovation Notes

  • Online/digital public consultation & communications
    Draft Council Plan (2024 update) submissions accepted via Council’s “have your say” page, email, and post; consultation promoted on Council social media.
  • Online/digital access to documents
    Proposed 2024/25 Annual Budget to be published on Council’s website after adoption; public notice to be published in local newspapers.
  • Hybrid meeting format
    Special Council Meeting held “Ballan & Online” (online participation/attendance referenced).