Agenda of Ordinary Meeting of Council - Monday, 26 August 2024

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 26 August 2024

RP-3

RP-3 FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE REPORT AS AT 31 JULY 2024

Author: Carolyn Rodney

Summary:

This report is for Council to consider information presented on the 2024/25 budget and Long-Term Financial Plan, and details Council’s external investments and performance as at 31 July 2024.

Recommendation

That Council:

a approve the proposed 2024/25 budget variations for the month ended 31 July 2024 and note the balanced budget position as presented in this report

b approve the proposed budget variations to the 2024/25 Long Term Financial Plan Capital Works Program including new projects and timing adjustments

c note the Responsible Accounting Officer’s reports, in accordance with the Local Government (General) Regulation 2021 (Part 9 Division 3: Clause 203) that the financial position of Council is satisfactory having regard to the original estimates of income and expenditure and the recommendations made above

d note the details of the external investments as of 31 July 2024 in accordance with section 625 of the Local Government Act 1993

e accept the grant funding offers as presented in this report

Report

Wagga Wagga City Council (Council) forecasts a balanced budget position as of 31 July 2024.

Proposed budget variations including adjustments to the capital works program are detailed in this report for Council’s consideration and adoption.

Council has experienced a positive monthly investment performance for the month of July when compared to budget ($594,981 up on the monthly budget). This is mainly due to better than budgeted returns on Council’s investment portfolio as a result of the recent interest rate movements, as well as a higher than anticipated investment portfolio balance. Council did experience a positive return on its NSW T-Corp Managed Fund for the month of July, as domestic and international shares provided solid returns.

Key Performance Indicators

OPERATING INCOME

Total operating income is 8% of approved budget and is tracking on budget for the month of July 2024. An adjustment has been made to reflect the levy of rates that occurred at the start of the financial year. Excluding this adjustment, operating income received is 60% when compared to budget.

OPERATING EXPENSES

Total operating expenditure is 14% of approved budget and is tracking over budget at this stage of the financial year, this is due to the payment of annual one-off expenses such as rates and insurance during the month of July, as well as the finalisation of the operating carryover budgets from 2023/24 that are still to be included.

CAPITAL INCOME

Total capital income is 2% of approved budget. It is important to note that the actual income from capital is influenced by the timing of the receipt of capital grants and contributions in relation to expenditure incurred on the projects.

CAPITAL EXPENDITURE

Total capital expenditure including commitments is 15% of approved budget including pending projects. This relates to capital project carryover budgets not being finalised and reflected in these budgeted amounts, as well as some purchase orders being raised for the full contract amount for multi-year projects. Excluding commitments, the total expenditure is 1% when compared to the approved budget.

2024/25 Revised Budget Result – (Surplus) / Deficit

$’000s

Original 2024/25 Budget Result as adopted by Council

Total Budget Variations approved to date

Budget Variations for July 2024

$0K

Proposed Revised Budget result for 31 July 2024 - (Surplus) / Deficit

$0K

The proposed Operating and Capital Budget Variations for 31 July 2024 which affect the current 2024/25 financial year are listed below.

*Budget Variation*	*Amount*	*Funding Source*		*Net Impact* *(Fav)/ Unfav*
*3 – Growing Economy*
LMC Safety Issues LMC Traffic Management Plan	$139K $11K	LMC Reserve ($150K)	Nil
Funds are required to rectify several safety issues that have been identified at the Livestock Marketing Centre (LMC). The works that are required are: - The removal and replacement of asbestos flooring that is failing. - The renovation of aged/damaged male and female amenities in response to the health and safety concerns for users. - The removal and replacement of concrete sills that are loose/dislodged creating a safety risk with exposure to weather damage of a major asset. - The development and delivery of a Traffic Management Plan in line with the outcomes of the Independent Safety Audit. It is proposed to fund the required works from the LMC Reserve. Estimated Completion: 30 June 2025 Job Consolidations: 45134, 45135 & 45136
Permit Plug Pilot Program	$500K	Transport for NSW Grant Funds ($500K)	Nil
Council has been advised they have been awarded $500,000 through Transport for NSW’s Permit/Plug/Play Pilot Program Grant Fund. The amount of $500,000 is to be received now that Deeds of Agreements have been executed. This project will streamline approval processes for events and fund simple infrastructure to enable efficient delivery of events. The four selected Councils for this funding are Wollongong, Newcastle, Port Macquarie-Hastings and Wagga Wagga. Estimated Completion: 30 June 2025 Job Consolidation: 23962
*5 – The Environment*
CPTIGS 2023/24	$20K	NSW Government Grant Funds ($20K)	Nil
Council has been successful in securing State Government grant funds under the Country Passenger Transport Infrastructure Grants Scheme (CPTIGS). The grant funds will be utilised for the installation of a new bus shelter at 48 Chaston Street, at the front of Kurrajong Disability Services. Estimated Completion: 30 June 2025 Job Consolidation: 23934
NSW Natural Disaster Funding	$2,070K	Transport for NSW ($2,070K)	Nil
Council has been successful in securing additional Transport for NSW grant funding under the Essential Public Asset Reconstruction Works program for the NSW flooding events from 14 September 2022 onwards. The grant funds cover 97 different locations in the Wagga LGA both local and regional. This will bring the total grant funds for this program to $5,103K. Estimated Completion: 30 June 2025 Job Consolidation: 22180
Pavement Rehabilitation	$1,661K	Roads to Recovery ($1,661K)	Nil
Council have been advised of the Roads to Recovery grant funding amount to be received for 2024/25. This amount of $2,666K is higher than the estimated budget amount of $1,005K. It is proposed to allocate the additional grant funds to the Pavement Rehabilitation program for Hampden Avenue, Vincent Road, Tobruk Street and Merino Drive. Estimated Completion: 30 June 2025 Job Consolidation: 16532
Murray Street & Brookong Avenue Intersection Works	$76K	Transport for NSW Contribution Income ($76K)	Nil
Funds are required for the installation of a traffic island and associated signs and line marking at the intersection of Murray Street and Brookong Avenue. The works are required as part of the Hospital Redevelopment. Council will manage the project with the expenditure incurred by Council to be reimbursed by Transport for NSW at the end of the project. Estimated Completion: 30 June 2025 Job Consolidation: 21902

The following project has been reviewed and it is proposed to bring forward funds to allow for works to be undertaken in 2024/25. There has been no change to the total budgets for the projects.

Job No.	Project Title	2024/25 Current One-Off Confirmed	2024/25 Proposed One-Off Confirmed	2025/26 Current	2025/26 Proposed
70168	GWMC Plant Shed	0	100,000	2,360,646	2,260,646

2024/25 Capital Works Summary

Capital Works	Approved Budget	Proposed Movement	Proposed Budget
One-off	$116,634,150	$835,240	$117,469,390
Recurrent	$23,746,070	$1,661,093	$25,407,163
Pending	$35,526,215	$0	$35,526,215
Total Capital Works	$175,906,435	$2,496,333	$178,402,768

Please note that the above table excludes the capital project budgets that are in the process of being carried over from 2023/24 to the 2024/25 financial year. These will be finalised for the next monthly report, which will be presented to the 28 October 2024 Council meeting.

Current Restrictions

Due to finalisation of the 2023/24 financial year figures, reserve balances have not been included in this report.

Investment Summary as at 31 July 2024

In accordance with Regulation 212 of the Local Government (General) Regulation 2021, details of Wagga Wagga City Council’s external investments are outlined below.

Institution	Rating	Closing Balance Invested 30/06/2024 $	Closing Balance Invested 31/07/2024 $	July EOM Current Yield %	July EOM % of Portfolio	Investment Date	Maturity Date	Term (mths)
*At Call Accounts*
NAB	AA-	211,553	318,407	4.35%	0.11%	N/A	N/A	N/A
CBA	AA-	73,244,111	71,506,709	4.35%	24.66%	N/A	N/A	N/A
CBA	AA-	7,645,298	7,672,947	4.40%	2.65%	N/A	N/A	N/A
Macquarie Bank	A+	9,713,458	9,750,705	4.15%	3.36%	N/A	N/A	N/A
*Total At Call Accounts*		90,814,421	89,248,768	4.33%	30.78%
*Short Term Deposits*
AMP	BBB+	1,000,000	1,000,000	5.40%	0.34%	15/11/2023	15/11/2024	12
Heritage and People's Choice	BBB+	1,000,000	0	0.00%	0.00%	10/07/2023	10/07/2024	12
CBA	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.27%	0.69%	31/08/2023	30/08/2024	12
Australian Unity	BBB+	1,000,000	1,000,000	5.49%	0.34%	27/11/2023	27/11/2024	12
Suncorp	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.46%	0.69%	30/11/2023	29/11/2024	12
ING Bank	A	1,000,000	1,000,000	5.46%	0.34%	30/11/2023	29/11/2024	12
BankVic	BBB+	1,000,000	1,000,000	5.45%	0.34%	4/12/2023	4/12/2024	12
AMP	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.35%	0.69%	14/12/2023	16/12/2024	12
Australian Unity	BBB+	1,000,000	1,000,000	5.19%	0.34%	30/01/2024	30/01/2025	12
Suncorp	AA-	1,000,000	1,000,000	5.12%	0.34%	7/03/2024	7/03/2025	12
ING Bank	A	1,000,000	1,000,000	5.31%	0.34%	3/06/2024	3/06/2025	12
BankVic	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.34%	0.69%	26/06/2024	26/06/2025	12
Bank of Sydney	NR	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.47%	0.69%	28/06/2024	30/06/2025	12
NAB	AA-	0	1,000,000	5.30%	0.34%	30/07/2024	30/07/2025	12
NAB	AA-	0	2,000,000	5.45%	0.69%	2/07/2024	2/07/2025	12
NAB	AA-	0	2,000,000	5.40%	0.69%	8/07/2024	8/07/2025	12
Suncorp	AA-	0	1,000,000	5.43%	0.34%	10/07/2024	10/07/2025	12
*Total Short Term Deposits*		18,000,000	23,000,000	3.97%	5.86%
*Medium Term Deposits*
Westpac	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.32%	0.69%	28/06/2021	29/06/2026	60
Westpac	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.80%	0.69%	15/11/2021	17/11/2025	48
ICBC	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	2.03%	0.69%	6/11/2019	6/11/2024	60
ICBC	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.83%	0.69%	28/11/2019	28/11/2024	60
BOQ	A-	1,000,000	1,000,000	2.00%	0.34%	28/02/2020	28/02/2025	60
Police Credit Union	NR	1,000,000	1,000,000	2.20%	0.34%	1/04/2020	1/04/2025	60
ICBC	A	1,000,000	1,000,000	1.85%	0.34%	29/05/2020	29/05/2025	60
ICBC	A	1,000,000	1,000,000	1.86%	0.34%	1/06/2020	2/06/2025	60
ICBC	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.75%	0.69%	25/06/2020	25/06/2025	60
ICBC	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.75%	0.69%	25/06/2020	25/06/2025	60
ICBC	A	3,000,000	3,000,000	5.07%	1.03%	30/06/2022	30/06/2027	60
ICBC	A	2,000,000	0	0.00%	0.00%	7/07/2020	8/07/2024	48
ICBC	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.50%	0.69%	17/08/2020	18/08/2025	60
BoQ	A-	1,000,000	1,000,000	1.25%	0.34%	7/09/2020	8/09/2025	60
BoQ	A-	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.25%	0.69%	14/09/2020	15/09/2025	60
NAB	AA-	1,000,000	1,000,000	5.23%	0.34%	14/09/2023	16/09/2024	12
ICBC	A	1,000,000	1,000,000	1.20%	0.34%	7/12/2020	8/12/2025	60
NAB	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	0.95%	0.69%	29/01/2021	29/01/2026	60
NAB	AA-	1,000,000	1,000,000	1.08%	0.34%	22/02/2021	20/02/2026	60
NAB	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.25%	0.69%	3/03/2021	2/03/2026	60
NAB	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.40%	0.69%	21/06/2021	19/06/2026	60
Westpac	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.32%	0.69%	25/06/2021	25/06/2026	60
ICBC	A	1,000,000	1,000,000	1.32%	0.34%	25/08/2021	25/08/2026	60
AMP	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.00%	0.69%	18/10/2021	17/10/2024	36
Westpac	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.56%	0.69%	30/11/2021	29/11/2024	36
Westpac	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	2.00%	0.69%	8/02/2022	10/02/2025	36
P&N Bank	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	2.40%	0.69%	9/03/2022	10/03/2025	36
P&N Bank	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.90%	0.69%	11/03/2024	11/03/2026	24
MyState	BBB	2,000,000	2,000,000	2.20%	0.69%	2/03/2022	3/03/2025	36
CBA	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	3.99%	0.69%	4/05/2022	5/05/2025	36
ING Bank	A	1,000,000	1,000,000	5.11%	0.34%	23/05/2024	25/05/2026	24
BoQ	A-	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.50%	0.34%	7/07/2022	7/07/2025	36
CBA	AA-	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.25%	0.34%	12/08/2022	12/08/2025	36
P&N Bank	BBB+	3,000,000	3,000,000	4.55%	1.03%	29/08/2022	29/08/2025	36
Australian Military Bank	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.55%	0.69%	2/09/2022	2/09/2025	36
P&N Bank	BBB+	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.40%	0.34%	9/09/2022	9/09/2025	36
BoQ	A-	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.70%	0.34%	4/10/2022	4/10/2024	24
AMP	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.95%	0.69%	21/10/2022	21/10/2024	24
ICBC	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.20%	0.69%	21/10/2022	21/10/2025	36
AMP	BBB+	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.75%	0.34%	15/11/2022	14/11/2024	24
AMP	BBB+	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.80%	0.34%	21/11/2022	20/11/2025	36
P&N Bank	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.75%	0.69%	16/12/2022	16/12/2024	24
Police Credit Union	NR	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.04%	0.69%	15/02/2023	17/02/2025	24
Police Credit Union	NR	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.94%	0.69%	14/03/2023	14/03/2025	24
P&N Bank	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.00%	0.69%	14/03/2023	15/03/2027	48
Hume Bank	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.75%	0.69%	31/03/2023	31/03/2025	24
Auswide	BBB	2,000,000	2,000,000	4.95%	0.69%	13/04/2023	13/04/2026	36
P&N Bank	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.20%	0.69%	20/04/2023	20/04/2027	48
P&N Bank	BBB+	1,000,000	1,000,000	5.20%	0.34%	26/05/2023	26/05/2026	36
ING Bank	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.38%	0.69%	28/06/2024	28/06/2029	60
ING Bank	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.37%	0.69%	21/08/2023	21/08/2025	24
P&N Bank	BBB+	1,000,000	1,000,000	5.45%	0.34%	30/11/2023	28/11/2025	24
ING Bank	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.20%	0.69%	14/12/2023	15/12/2025	24
ING Bank	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.14%	0.69%	3/01/2024	5/01/2026	24
P&N Bank	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.10%	0.69%	4/01/2024	4/01/2027	36
Suncorp	AA-	1,000,000	1,000,000	5.08%	0.34%	8/01/2024	8/01/2026	24
Australian Unity	BBB+	1,000,000	1,000,000	4.93%	0.34%	7/03/2024	9/03/2026	24
ING Bank	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.10%	0.69%	23/04/2024	24/04/2028	48
NAB	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.10%	0.69%	6/05/2024	6/05/2026	24
ING Bank	A	1,000,000	1,000,000	5.12%	0.34%	24/05/2024	24/05/2027	36
ING Bank	A	1,000,000	1,000,000	5.26%	0.34%	31/05/2024	31/05/2028	48
ING Bank	A	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.26%	0.69%	6/06/2024	6/06/2028	48
Australian Military Bank	BBB+	1,000,000	1,000,000	5.20%	0.34%	11/06/2024	11/06/2026	24
Australian Military Bank	BBB+	2,000,000	2,000,000	5.20%	0.69%	11/06/2024	11/06/2026	24
*Total Medium Term Deposits*		107,000,000	105,000,000	3.62%	36.21%
*Floating Rate Notes - Senior Debt*
Suncorp	AA-	1,260,926	0	0.00%	0.00%	30/07/2019	30/07/2024	60
HSBC	AA-	2,503,419	2,513,960	BBSW + 83	0.87%	27/09/2019	27/09/2024	60
NAB	AA-	2,023,701	2,006,893	BBSW + 77	0.69%	21/01/2020	21/01/2025	60
Newcastle Permanent	BBB+	1,109,887	1,115,340	BBSW + 112	0.38%	4/02/2020	4/02/2025	60
Macquarie Bank	A+	2,018,028	2,026,898	BBSW + 84	0.70%	12/02/2020	12/02/2025	60
BOQ Covered	AAA	556,187	558,899	BBSW + 107	0.19%	14/05/2020	14/05/2025	60
UBS	A+	1,516,972	1,504,885	BBSW + 87	0.52%	30/07/2020	30/07/2025	60
CBA	AA-	2,023,636	2,008,980	BBSW + 70	0.69%	14/01/2022	14/01/2027	60
Rabobank	A+	2,016,397	2,002,524	BBSW + 73	0.69%	27/01/2022	27/01/2027	60
Newcastle Permanent	BBB+	1,001,124	1,007,110	BBSW + 100	0.35%	10/02/2022	10/02/2027	60
NAB	AA-	2,414,343	2,427,597	BBSW + 72	0.84%	25/02/2022	25/02/2027	60
Bendigo-Adelaide	A-	1,657,210	1,664,931	BBSW + 98	0.57%	17/03/2022	17/03/2025	36
ANZ	AA-	2,029,105	2,040,568	BBSW + 97	0.70%	12/05/2022	12/05/2027	60
NAB	AA-	1,714,990	1,722,695	BBSW + 90	0.59%	30/05/2022	30/05/2025	36
Suncorp	AA-	909,302	913,597	BBSW + 93	0.32%	22/08/2022	22/08/2025	36
ANZ	AA-	2,557,747	2,572,295	BBSW + 120	0.89%	4/11/2022	4/11/2027	60
NAB	AA-	2,548,236	2,562,931	BBSW + 120	0.88%	25/11/2022	25/11/2027	60
Suncorp	AA-	1,117,201	1,125,082	BBSW + 125	0.39%	14/12/2022	14/12/2027	60
CBA	AA-	2,049,420	2,033,784	BBSW + 115	0.70%	13/01/2023	13/01/2028	60
Bank Australia	BBB+	1,921,581	1,933,705	BBSW + 155	0.67%	22/02/2023	22/02/2027	48
Bendigo-Adelaide Covered	AAA	1,010,032	1,016,223	BBSW + 115	0.35%	16/06/2023	16/06/2028	60
CBA	AA-	2,530,535	2,546,076	BBSW + 95	0.88%	17/08/2023	17/08/2028	60
ANZ	AA-	2,116,748	2,128,236	BBSW + 93	0.73%	11/09/2023	11/09/2028	60
Bank Australia	BBB+	1,671,045	1,656,944	BBSW + 150	0.57%	30/10/2023	30/10/2026	36
ANZ	AA-	2,534,241	2,548,742	BBSW + 96	0.88%	5/02/2024	5/02/2029	60
ANZ	AA-	1,004,261	1,011,400	BBSW + 98	0.35%	19/03/2024	19/03/2029	60
ING Bank	A	501,822	504,953	BBSW + 95	0.17%	22/03/2024	22/03/2027	36
BoQ	A-	1,672,676	1,660,742	BBSW + 128	0.57%	30/04/2024	30/04/2029	60
Bendigo-Adelaide	A-	806,594	811,376	BBSW + 100	0.28%	14/05/2024	14/05/2027	36
ANZ	AA-	1,502,541	1,512,536	BBSW + 86	0.52%	18/06/2024	18/06/2029	60
Teachers Mutual	BBB+	901,315	907,912	BBSW + 130	0.31%	21/06/2024	21/06/2027	36
*Total Floating Rate Notes - Senior Debt*		51,201,220	50,047,812		17.26%
*Fixed Rate Bonds*
ING Covered	AAA	694,111	702,551	1.10%	0.24%	19/08/2021	19/08/2026	60
Northern Territory Treasury	AA-	3,000,000	3,000,000	1.00%	1.03%	24/08/2021	16/12/2024	40
Northern Territory Treasury	AA-	3,000,000	3,000,000	1.50%	1.03%	24/08/2021	15/12/2026	64
BoQ	A-	1,768,954	1,793,770	2.10%	0.62%	27/10/2021	27/10/2026	60
BoQ	A-	2,004,277	2,048,602	5.30%	0.71%	30/04/2024	30/04/2029	60
Northern Territory Treasury	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.50%	0.69%	6/08/2021	15/12/2026	64
Northern Territory Treasury	AA-	1,000,000	1,000,000	1.50%	0.34%	14/07/2021	15/12/2026	65
Northern Territory Treasury	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.30%	0.69%	29/04/2021	15/06/2026	61
Northern Territory Treasury	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.00%	0.69%	30/11/2020	15/12/2025	60
Northern Territory Treasury	AA-	1,000,000	1,000,000	1.00%	0.34%	20/11/2020	15/12/2025	61
Northern Territory Treasury	AA-	2,000,000	2,000,000	1.00%	0.69%	21/10/2020	15/12/2025	62
*Total Fixed Rate Bonds*		20,467,343	20,544,923	1.70%	7.09%
*Managed Funds*
NSW Tcorp	NR	2,065,270	2,124,114	2.85%	0.73%	17/03/2014	1/07/2029	183
*Total Managed Funds*		2,065,270	2,124,114	2.85%	0.73%
TOTAL WWCC CASH ASSETS, CASH EQUIVALENTS & INVESTMENTS		288,844,506	289,261,869

Council’s investment portfolio is dominated by Term Deposits, equating to approximately 44% of the portfolio across a broad range of counterparties. Cash equates to 31%, with Floating Rate Notes (FRNs) around 17%, fixed rate bonds around 7% and growth funds around 1% of the portfolio.

Council’s investment portfolio is well diversified in complying assets across the entire credit spectrum. It is also well diversified from a rating perspective. Credit quality is diversified and is predominately invested amongst the investment grade Authorised Deposit-Taking Institutions (ADIs) (being BBB- or higher), with a smaller allocation to unrated ADIs.

All investments are within the defined Policy limits, as outlined in the Rating Allocation chart below:

Investment Portfolio Balance

Council’s investment portfolio balance increased slightly over the past month, up from $288.84M to $289.26M.

Monthly Investment Movements

Redemptions/Sales – Council redeemed/sold the following investment securities during July 2024:

Institution and Type	Amount	Investment Term	Interest Rate	Comments
ICBC (A) Term Deposit	$2M	4 years	1.42%	This term deposit was redeemed on maturity and these funds were reinvested in a new 12-month NAB term deposit (as below).
Heritage and People’s Choice Bank (BBB+) Term Deposit	$1M	12 months	5.08%	This term deposit was redeemed on maturity and these funds were reinvested in a new 12-month Suncorp Bank term deposit (as below).
Suncorp Bank (AA-) Floating Rate Note	$1.2M	5 years	BBSW + 78bps	This floating rate note was redeemed on maturity and funds were used to purchase a new 12-month NAB term deposits (as below).

New Investments – Council purchased the following investment securities during July 2024:

Institution and Type	Amount	Investment Term	Interest Rate	Comments
NAB (AA-) Term Deposit	$2M	12 months	5.45%	The NAB rate of 5.45% compared favourably to the rest of the market for this term. The next best rate for this term was 5.43%.
NAB (AA-) Term Deposit	$2M	12 months	5.40%	The NAB rate of 5.40% compared favourably to the rest of the market for this term. The next best rate for this term was 5.37%.
NAB (AA-) Term Deposit	$1M	12 months	5.30%	The NAB rate of 5.30% compared favourably to the rest of the market for this term. The next best rate for this term was also 5.30%.
Suncorp Bank (AA-) Term Deposit	$1M	12 months	5.43%	The Suncorp Bank rate of 5.43% compared favourably to the rest of the market for this term. The next best rate for this term was 5.40%.

Rollovers – Council did not roll over any investment securities during July 2024.

Monthly Investment Performance

Interest/growth/capital gains/(losses) for the month totalled $1,185,235, which compares favourably with the budget for the period of $590,254 - outperforming budget for the month by $594,981.

Council’s outperformance to budget for July is mainly due to better than budgeted returns on Councils investment portfolio as well as a higher than anticipated investment portfolio balance. This is a result of the recent movements in the cash rate made by the Reserve Bank of Australia, with the latest increase in early November 2023 bringing the cash rate to 4.35% from a record low of 0.10% in April 2022.

Council also experienced a positive return on its NSW T-Corp Managed Fund for the month of July, with the fund returning +2.85% (or $58,844) as domestic (+4.19%) and international (+1.70%) shares provided solid returns.

In comparison to the AusBond Bank Bill Index* of 4.49% (annualised), Council’s investment portfolio returned 4.32% (annualised) for the month of July. This underperformance against the benchmark for the month is mainly due to lower returns on fixed deposits and bonds due to a proportion of these being locked in prior to the unexpected RBA rate hikes, as well as aggressive increases in the AusBond Bank Bill index due to the current interest rate environment.

On Cash and At‑Call accounts returned 4.35% (annualised) for the month. These funds are utilised for daily cash flow management and need to be available to meet operating and contractual payments as they fall due.

Over the past year, Council’s investment portfolio has returned 3.92%, marginally underperforming the AusBond Bank Bill index by -0.46%. Councils investment portfolio has continued to outperform the AusBond Bank Bill Index* over the longer-term time period, returning 2.75% per annum over the past 3 years – outperforming the benchmark by 0.18% over this time.

* The AusBond Bank Bill Index is the leading benchmark for the Australian fixed income market. It is interpolated from the RBA Cash rate, 1 month and 3-month Bank Bill Swap rates.

Report by Responsible Accounting Officer

I hereby certify that all of the above investments have been made in accordance with the provision of Section 625 of the Local Government Act 1993 and the regulations there under, and in accordance with the Investment Policy adopted by Council on 24 June 2024.

Carolyn Rodney

Responsible Accounting Officer

Policy and Legislation

Budget variations are reported in accordance with Council’s POL 052 Budget Policy.

Investments are reported in accordance with Council’s POL 075 Investment Policy.

Local Government Act 1993

Section 625 - How may councils invest?

Local Government (General) Regulation 2021

Section 212 - Reports on council investments

Link to Strategic Plan

Community leadership and collaboration

Objective: Wagga Wagga City Council leads through engaged civic governance and is recognised and distinguished by its ethical decision-making, efficient management, innovation and quality customer service

Ensure transparency and accountability

Risk Management Issues for Council

This report is a control mechanism that assists in addressing the following potential risks to Council:

· Loss of investment income or capital resulting from ongoing management of investments, especially during difficult economic times

· Failure to demonstrate to the community that its funds are being expended in an efficient and effective manner

Internal / External Consultation

All relevant areas within Council have consulted with the Finance Division in relation to the budget variations listed in this report.

The Finance Division has consulted with relevant external parties to confirm Council’s investment portfolio balances.

Attachments

1 ⇩.

Capital Works Program 2024/25 to 2033/34

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 26 August 2024

RP-10

RP-10 MAJOR EVENTS, FESTIVALS, AND FILMS SPONSORSHIP ROUND 2 2024/25

Author: Kimberly Parker

Executive: Janice Summerhayes

Summary:

Council is in receipt of four applications for the second and last round of the 2024/25 Major Events, Festivals and Film Sponsorship Program. The funding is available to support events held from 1 July 2024 to 30 June 2025.

Recommendation

That Council:

a authorise the General Manager or their delegate to enter into an agreement to sponsor the following events through the 2024/25 Major Events and Sponsorship budget:

i Lords of the Soils Film by Kensington House Entertainment Pty Ltd to the amount of $7,060 through the incubator event stream

ii Country Women’s Association of NSW 2025 State Conference by CWA Riverina Branch to the amount of $9,940 through the incubator event stream

iii Easter Egg Hunt by Bidgee Strawberries and Cream to the amount of $15,000 through the developing event stream

iv Wagga Wagga Mardi Gras to the amount of $20,000 through the developing event stream

Report

Council is in receipt of four applications for the second and final round of the 2024/25 Major Events, Festival and Films Sponsorship Program. This funding is available to support events held from 1 July 2024 to 30 June 2025.

Applications have been assessed by the Major Events Advisory Panel (the Panel) consisting of two community members and two council staff. The Panel has assessed the applications in line with the Major Events, Festivals and Films Sponsorship guidelines. The details of the applications received along with the recommended sponsorship funding amounts are summarised as follows:

Event Name & Organisation	Amount Requested	Project Budget	Reason
Lords of the Soils Film by Kensington House Entertainment Pty Ltd	$10,000	$144,193	The Panel recommends sponsorship of the film to the partial amount of $7,060 requested for the delivery of the postproduction of the film. The Panel recognised that the film has broad appeal to the community and has demonstrated how they are inclusive and support local creative industries. The application demonstrated strong community and strategic partnerships to demonstrate their capabilities to deliver a film of this scale. The Panel agreed to partially fund the project noting that the event would have a modest economic impact and noting the funds available for this round.
Country Women’s Association of NSW 2025 State Conference by CWA Riverina Branch	$9,940	$80,285	The Panel recommends sponsorship of the event to the full amount of $9,940 requested for the delivery of the conference. The Panel scored the event well and acknowledged the high economic impact the event would generate. The application demonstrated new and unique offerings for the Wagga Wagga conference.
Easter Egg Hunt by Bidgee Strawberries and Cream	$20,000	$59,873	The Panel recommends sponsorship of the event to the partial amount of $15,000 for the programming and delivery of this event. The Panel recognised that the event has broad appeal to the community and has demonstrated growth in attendance since 2019. The applicant effectively demonstrated their commitment to inclusivity and their support for local businesses in delivering an event of this scale. The Panel agreed to partially fund the event due to a smaller return on investment when compared to larger fully funded events held in our city such as Gears & Beers and Wagga Wagga Mardi Gras.
Wagga Wagga Mardi Gras	$20,000	$94,543.80	The Panel recommend sponsorship of the event to the full amount requested $20,000 to support the programming delivery of this festival. The Panel agreed that the Mardi Gras event provided significant social and economic impact and therefore scored highly against the criteria. The application detailed a strong strategic plan to grow and develop event programming across time.

Film Details: Lords of the Soils Film by Kensington House Entertainment Pty Ltd

Lords of the Soil is a fiction film set in the 1860’s inspired by true history of Wagga Wagga and the Riverina. It is a film that showcases a lost way of life and explores the complex relationship between Indigenous and non-Indigenous people of the region. With a tendency towards kindness and compassion, the aim of the film leaves audiences in an open and reflective state to further explore the nation’s history and engage in healthy discussion about the past and future.

The core producing team of "Lords of the Soil" consists of experienced professionals dedicated to creating a culturally and historically rich film. Jake Speer, Leeton-born actor (Netflix: Clickbait, Home and Away) and producer, leads the team alongside Director Chris Butel, known for his international documentaries and wholistic filmmaking approach. The production team also includes Elijah Ingram and Bernard Higgins (Miil Miil Productions), Letetia Harris, Dale Alison, and Adam Alexander. Together, this team combines diverse skills and knowledge to deliver a film with artistic significance and cultural impact. The film celebrates Wagga Wagga’s history, supports local talent, and promotes cultural preservation.

This application seeks funding for final completion, including the hiring of a local recording studio for the original score, engaging a senior Wiradjuri language expert, and covering fees for local Riverina vocalists and musicians.

Event Summary

· Program delivery: November 2024

· Proposed venue: N/A

· Project cost: $144,193

· Total amount requested: $10,000

· Committee members: Jake Speers, Letetia Harris, Adam Alexander and Dale Alison.

If successful in securing the requested funding the applicant will acknowledge Council’s funding through logo placement on all marketing material and promotion through media opportunities as they arise.

The Panel has assessed this application against the Major Events, Festivals and Films Sponsorship Guidelines for an Incubator Event/Project and recommends a partial amount of $7,060 in funding to contribute towards the delivery of post-production of the film.

The Panel’s assessment and recommendation is summarised as follows:

· The applicant demonstrated a proven track record and experience in film production to ensure that the project will come to fruition.

· The applicant demonstrated strong community ties including local synopsis, Wiradjuri language specialists, and local postproduction engagement

· The Panel noted that the film would provide destination awareness and media coverage for the city which scored will against the criteria for a film

· The Panel agreed to partially fund the project noting that the event would have a modest economic impact and noting the funds available for this round.

Event Details: Country Women’s Association of NSW 2025 State Conference

18 - 22 May 2025

The Country Women’s Association (CWA) of NSW is the State’s largest rural issues advocacy group with over 8,000 members and 400 branches across NSW. The organisation’s annual conference is held in a different regional location each year attracting approximately 800 delegates and hundreds more visitors and observers from across the state.

The 2025 event is scheduled to be held in Wagga Wagga’s Range Function Centre and Equex Multipurpose Stadium showcasing a lineup of conference speakers, workshops, expos, and site tours across Wagga Wagga and surrounds region to showcase the culture, landscape, economics, industries and education/health services.

The CWA of NSW State Conference in Wagga Wagga is anticipated to attract 800-1000 attendees with approximately 600 of those being from outside the Local Government Area which will generate a significant boost to the city’s visitor economy sector including accommodation, hospitality, and retail.

Event Summary

· Date: 18 – 22 May 2025

· Expected attendance: 800 - 1000

· Visitors outside of the Local Government Area: 600

· Program duration: 5 days

· Proposed venue: The Range Function Centre and Equex Multipurpose Stadium

· Total event cost: $80,285

· Total amount requested: $9,940

· Committee members: Carol Grylls, Ann Adams OAM, Toni Nugent, Lyn Jacobsen OAM, Anette Forsyth, Leonie Kohlhagen and Rachel Whiting.

The Panel has assessed this application against the Major Events, Festivals and Films Sponsorship Guidelines for an Incubator Event and recommends the full requested amount of $9,940 in funding to contribute towards the delivery of the conference.

The Panel’s assessment and recommendation is summarised as follows:

· The application demonstrated that the event would generate a strong economic impact from number of visitors to the city and scored highly against the criteria.

· The event demonstrated strong community engagement and showcased the region and therefore scored highly in terms of social economic impact.

· The Panel agreed that the event would generate far reaching exposure for the City noting the strong attendance from all across the state.

· The Panel agreed that the event had new and unique offerings for the Wagga Wagga conference.

Event Details: Easter Egg Hunt by Bidgee Strawberries and Cream | 18 April 2025

Bidgee Strawberries and Cream’s annual Easter Egg Hunt is a great family day out. It features live music, farm fresh produce, food and beverage vendors and children’s activities including pony rides, face painting, jumping castles and an Easter Egg hunt in the strawberry patch.

Since its inaugural event in 2019 which featured less than 1,000 attendees, the Easter Egg Hunt has continued to grow with over 1,200 in attendance in 2024. The 2025 event will be even bigger with the addition of camel rides, a rock-climbing wall and putt putt golf. The event will be held on Friday 18 April and is anticipated to attract 2,500 attendees with approximately 825 of those being from outside the Local Government Area which will generate a significant boost to the City’s visitor economy sector over the Easter weekend.

Event Summary

· Date: 18 April 2025

· Expected attendance: 2,500

· Visitors outside of the Local Government Area: 825

· Program duration: Single day

· Proposed venue: Bidgee Strawberries and Cream

· Total event cost: $59,873

· Total amount requested: $20,000

· Committee members: Kylie Cashen

The Panel has assessed this application against the Major Events, Festivals and Films Sponsorship Guidelines for a Developing Event and recommends a partial amount of $15,000 in funding to contribute to programming and event logistics.

The Panel’s assessment and recommendation is summarised as follows:

· The Panel recognised that the delivery and timing of the event was strategic as it offers a fun family experience during a peak visitor time and when businesses tend to close

· The application demonstrated that it was inclusive and had a strong use of local businesses to deliver the event

· The Panel noted that the applicant demonstrated a proven track record of hosting events and that event attendance was growing.

· The Panel agreed to partially fund the event due to a smaller return on investment when compared to larger fully funded events held in our city such as Gears & Beers and Wagga Wagga Mardi Gras.

Event Details: Wagga Wagga Mardi Gras | 5 April 2025

Wagga Wagga Mardi Gras festival aims to raise the visibility of the lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and intersex (LGBTIQ+) communities in the Riverina, providing an opportunity to express their creativity and celebrate their identity. In 2025, the festival program will span across a week of celebrations, raising awareness and acceptance for the LGBTIQ+ community in Wagga Wagga, the Riverina and beyond. A mixture of free and ticketed events for all ages means that everyone has a chance to participate in April 2025.

Since its inaugural event in 2019 which featured 17 floats and 700 participants in the parade, Wagga Mardi Gras has grown significantly to over 50 floats and 1500 parade participants in 2022 and 2023 (after a hiatus in 2020 and 2021 due to COVID-19 restrictions). In 2023 the drag events were strongly attended by over 400 people, and the roller disco saw 180 attendees. Wagga Wagga Mardi Gras Festival is managed by a volunteer committee with the support of Council and other sponsors such as Charles Sturt University.

The Wagga Wagga Mardi Gras festival to be held on Saturday 5 April 2025 includes a parade that will take place in Baylis Street and a free family-friendly after party at Victory Memorial Gardens commencing at 6:00pm. The after party will host a wide variety of food and drink vendors that include local operators, not for profit stalls with community information such as headspace Wagga, Aids Council of NSW (ACON), Wellways and offer a main stage show. The event will also host the Pride Markets as a recovery event on Sunday with 100 market stalls at the Victory Memorial Gardens.

Event Summary

· Date: 5 April 2025

· Expected attendance: 7,500

· Visitors outside of the Local Government Area: 1,500

· Program duration: Single day

· Proposed venue: Baylis Street and Victory Memorial Gardens

· Total event cost: $94,543.80

· Total amount requested: $20,000

· Committee members: Holly Conroy, Cristy Houghton, Alex Osgood, Helen Foley, Matt Luff, Christina Scurr and Margot Schoonmaker.

The Panel has assessed this application against the Major Events, Festivals and Films Sponsorship Guidelines for a Flagship Event and recommends this event receives the full request of funding of $20,000 for programming and event logistics.

The Panel’s assessment and recommendation is summarised as follows:

· The applicant demonstrated extensive planning, a skilled committee with resources to continue the growth of the event.

· The Panel agreed that the Mardi Gras event provided significant social and economic impact and scored highly against the criteria.

· The applicant provided a detailed strategic plan to grow and develop the programming of the event.

· Demonstrated commitment to continuing to develop the skills of the volunteer committee team and work toward achieving a sustainable business model for this major event in the years to come.

Financial Implications

2024/25 Major Events Sponsorship Budget	$100,000
Less Current Commitments
· Gears & Beers Festival (year two of three)	($20,000)
· Carols by Candlelight	($10,000)
· Wagga Wagga Swap Meet	($3,000)
· Christmas with the Con	($15,000)
Total Current Commitments	($48,000)
Recommended sponsorship
· Lords of the Soil Film	($7,060)
· CWA of NSW 2025 State Conference	($9,940)
· Easter Egg Hunt by Bidgee Strawberries and Cream	($15,000)
· Wagga Wagga Mardi Gras	($20,000)
Total Major Events Sponsorship funding recommended in this report	($52,000)
Remaining budget for 2024/25 Major Events, Festivals and Films Sponsorship	$0 All funds exhausted

This funding opportunity is widely promoted through digital social media platforms, industry newsletters and through direct consultation with event organisers throughout the year.

This 2024/25 funding stream is now fully exhausted. The 2025/26 round of funding will open in February 2025 for delivery in the second half of 2025.

Job number 15308 – Major Events Sponsorship

Policy and Legislation

POL087 – Major Events, Festivals and Films Sponsorship

Link to Strategic Plan

Growing Economy

Objective: Wagga Wagga is an attractive tourist destination

Provide a variety of events, festivals, and activities

Risk Management Issues for Council

Risk management will be addressed as part of any future sponsorship agreement, with terms and conditions ensuring events are managed appropriately. A staged payment schedule based on event planning and delivery milestones will also be implemented to mitigate against non-delivery of event with each applicant.

Internal / External Consultation

Mail

Traditional Media

Community Engagement

Digital

Rates notices insert

Direct mail

Letterbox drop

Council news

Media release

Media opportunity

TV/radio advertising

One-on-one meeting(s)

Community meeting(s)

Stakeholder workshop(s)

Drop-in session(s)

Survey/feedback form(s)

Have your Say

Email newsletter

Social media

Website

Inform

Consult

Involve

Collaborate

Other methods (please list specific details below)

Attachments

1 .	MAJOR EVENTS FESTIVALS AND FILMS SPONSORSHIP 202425 ROUND 2 - Lords of the Soil Film funding application This matter is considered to be confidential under Section 10A(2) of the Local Government Act 1993, as it deals with: commercial information of a confidential nature that would, if disclosed, confer a commercial advantage on a competitor of the Council. - Provided under separate cover
2 .	MAJOR EVENTS FESTIVALS AND FILMS SPONSORSHIP 202425 ROUND 2 - Country Women's Association of NSW This matter is considered to be confidential under Section 10A(2) of the Local Government Act 1993, as it deals with: commercial information of a confidential nature that would, if disclosed, confer a commercial advantage on a competitor of the Council. - Provided under separate cover
3 .	MAJOR EVENTS FESTIVALS AND FILM SPONSORSHIP PROGRAM 202425 ROUND 2 - Easter Egg Hunt funding This matter is considered to be confidential under Section 10A(2) of the Local Government Act 1993, as it deals with: commercial information of a confidential nature that would, if disclosed, confer a commercial advantage on a competitor of the Council. - Provided under separate cover
4 .	MAJOR EVENTS FESTIVALS AND FILMS SPONSORSHIP PROGRAM 202425 ROUND 2 - Wagga Mardi Gras funding This matter is considered to be confidential under Section 10A(2) of the Local Government Act 1993, as it deals with: commercial information of a confidential nature that would, if disclosed, confer a commercial advantage on a competitor of the Council. - Provided under separate cover

Report submitted to the Ordinary Meeting of Council on Monday 26 August 2024

M-2

M-2 Local Traffic Committee - Minutes - 7 August 2024

Author: Warren Faulkner

Summary:

The Local Traffic Committee met for an ordinary meeting on 7 August 2024 and considered seven (7) formal reports.

The Committee were unanimous in proceeding with the Officer recommendation for five (5) of the reports. There was a majority consensus for the Officer recommendation on the other two (2) reports. The Committee also provided two (2) additional recommendations for the Councils consideration. The Committee recommendations are all provided for the resolution of Council.

Draft minutes of the meeting have been sent to the Committee members for their feedback/comments. A copy of the draft minutes are attached for the information of the Council.

Recommendation

That Council:

a receive the minutes of the Local Traffic Committee Meeting held on 7 August 2024

b endorse the installation of a length of NO STOPPING and other prescribed traffic control devices on Hammond Avenue as shown on Xeros Piccolo Line and Signage Plan for Project Number 230318, Sheet C8 Revision E dated 08.04.2024 and stamped Accepted for Construction by Transport for NSW on 26 June 2024

c endorse the installation of a Give Way sign and line marking for a CHR(s) treatment as shown on MJM Sheet Number C5 of Project Number 200102

d endorse the installation of a Give Way sign and line marking as shown on MJM Sheet Number C6 of Project Number 210613

e approve the conduct of the 2024 Lake Run and Ride Event on Sunday 29 September 2024

f support the conduct of the 2024 Gears and Beers Event on Sunday 6 October 2024

g endorse the installation of regulatory signs for the centre-of-road parking arrangement in Kincaid Street between Fitzmaurice Street and Trail Street as detailed on Council Plan Registration C1970 Sheet Number 004 Issue 1 dated 15 July 2024 with the islands widened out to 6.4m

h consider a 40kph High Pedestrian Zone and 45⁰ angled parking in Kincaid Street between Fitzmaurice Street and Trail Street as part of the CBD Masterplan

i approve the installation of traffic control devices relating to the Active Travel Project, as per the attached design plan C2129, issue B, dated 1 August 2024

j change the north and south bound Give Way movement control on Beckwith Street at its intersection with Kincaid Street to a Stop control in accordance with Australian Standards

Report

The Traffic Committee met on 7 August 2024 and considered 7 reports. A summary of each report is as follows:

RP-1 - DA22/0346.01 New Service Station at 226-236 Hammond Avenue East Wagga Wagga - No Parking and other Prescribed Traffic Control Devices

Condition C.17 of the determination for Development Application DA22/0346.01 requires that prior to the release of the Construction Certificate a plan shall be submitted to and approved by the General Manager or delegate, that identifies a no stopping restriction in Hammond Avenue for the length of the site, as well as any other proposed prescribed traffic control devices. The plan is required to be referred to and approved by the Local Traffic Committee before it is approved as these works incorporate a prescribed traffic control device.

The plan has been Approved for Construction by Transport for NSW as the Roads Authority by way of a Works Authorisation Deed as required by condition C.18 of the determination.

The majority of the Local Traffic Committee were in support of the officers recommendation. The officers recommendation is being presented for the resolution of Council.

RP-2 - MAHOGANY DRIVE AND GREGADOO ROAD INTERSECTION, LAKE ALBERT

Development Application DA22/0192 is a 44 Lot residential subdivision that is being completed in 5 stages.

The first stage of the development involves the creation of a new access into the subdivision off Gregadoo Road to create 8 Lots.

Condition C.12 of the consent for the development requires that prior to the release of the Subdivision Works Certificate for Stage 1 a plan shall be submitted to and approved by the General Manager or delegate, that identifies the intersection design of Road 1 and Gregadoo Road. This plan is required to be referred to, and approved by the Local Traffic Committee before it is approved as these works incorporate a prescribed traffic control device.

The plan for the intersection submitted to Council as part of the Subdivision Works Certificate application (SWC24/0002) was submitted to the Local Traffic Committee.

The Local Traffic Committee were unanimous in their support of the officers recommendation. The officers recommendation is being presented for the resolution of Council.

RP-3 - Blakeleys Road and Dunns road interesection - springvale

Development Application DA22/0094.01 is a 16 Lot residential subdivision that is currently under construction.

Condition C.59A of the consent for the development requires that prior to the release of the Subdivision Certificate a plan shall be submitted to and approved by the General Manager or delegate, that identifies signage and linemarking required for the intersection of Dunns Road and Blakelys Road. This plan is required to be referred to, and approved by the Local Traffic Committee before it is approved as these works incorporate a prescribed traffic control device.

The plan for the intersection submitted to Council as part of the Subdivision Works Certificate application (SWC24/0001) was submitted to the Local Traffic Committee.

The Local Traffic Committee were unanimous in their support of the officers recommendation. The officers recommendation is being presented for the resolution of Council.

RP-4 - 2024 LAKE RUN & RIDE EVENT – SUNDAY 29 SEPTEMBER 2024

The Wagga Lake Run and Ride is a free to enter, community participation event where participants walk, run 5km or run, walk or cycle 10km through the streets of Wagga and around Lake Albert.

10km Cycle, Run and Walk: Starts at Eastlake Drive, Lake Albert, continues north along Lake Albert Road. The route turns near the intersection with Lord Baden Powell Drive and participants will reverse direction along Lake Albert Road to a point near the northern end of Lake Albert at Lakeside Drive where the event leaves the road network and continues on the shared path around the western side of Lake Albert.

5km Run and walk: Starts at Eastlake Drive, Lake Albert, also continues north along Lake Albert Road to the northern end of Lake Albert at Lakeside Drive where the event leaves the road network and continues on the shared path around the western side of Lake Albert.

Lake Albert Road will be divided by witches hats and participants will keep to the RIGHT to avoid the necessity of participants crossing paths at the point where the event leaves the road network or participants need access to drinks stations.

RP-5 - GEARS & BEERS FESTIVAL 2024 – SUNDAY 6 OCTOBER 2024

The Gears and Beers Festival and the Dirty 130, has been held annually in Wagga Wagga since 2013. It is one of the largest and most popular events on the Australian and international gravel cycling calendar.

The 2024 Gears and Beers Festival is to be conducted along Baylis Street, Fitzmaurice Street and Morrow Street in Wagga Wagga on Sunday 6 October 2024. The event will involve five separate escorted bicycle rides over varying lengths from 10 kilometres to 130 kilometres.

On Sunday 6th October, Baylis street will be closed from Morrow Street to Johnson Street between the hours of 5.30am – 4.00pm.

Morrow street will be closed between Peter Street and O’Reilly Street’s.

5 Rides will depart the start finish area between the Council chambers and Victory Memorial Gardens. First ride beginning at 7.00am last ride to leave at 10.00am. It is expected all rides will return before 2.30pm.

The event is not a race or a time trial. Participants will be discouraged from undertaking any form of behaviour that could be construed to come within the definition that is contained in Section 115 of the Road Transport Act 2013.

A high standard of traffic control can only be undertaken through the systematic consideration of the conditions that may be encountered during the event and the implementation of specific traffic control and contingency plans.

RP-6 - KINCAID STREET – CENTRE OF ROAD PARKING

At the 13 June 2024 Local Traffic Committee meeting, the Centre of Road Parking arrangement on Kincaid Street between Fitzmaurice Street and Trail Street was an agenda item.

Concerns were raised by the Transport for NSW representative that the length of the centre parking bays were not long enough for the length of some vehicles commonly used today. This was also supported by the Police representative. Typically a lot of larger cars (4WD’s/Ford Rangers/Twin cab utes) are around 6m long.

With this in mind, the layout for the centre of road parking has been redesigned to increase the length of the parking bays to 6.4m to give the following proposed allocations for the travel lanes, centre parking and parallel parking to address these concerns as well as make the arrangement compliant with AS 2890.5

Turning paths for 5.2m passenger vehicles (common passenger vehicle) and 6.4m small rigid vehicles (ie. representative of large utilities such as Dodge RAM 1500 or Ford F-150) show that the arrangement is satisfactory to accommodate all movements in a forward direction for the 5.2m vehicle, however for the 6.4m vehicle, reversing is required to get the vehicle into the centre parking from the east bound (northern) travel lane. These movements are shown following.

It is for this reason that the length of vehicles that can park in the centre parking bays be limited to 6m. It is proposed to install the following parking sign for the centre parking bays.

The Transport for NSW representative requested that Council explore alternate centre of road parking, for example 45 degree parking which would provide an area of safety for users accessing the rear compartment of their vehicles.

Council has investigated 45 degree centre parking, however the departure paths for forward movements cannot be accommodated within the formation width of the road as shown following:

60 degree centre angle parking bays were also considered as shown following with the same outcome being that the departure paths for forward movements cannot be accommodated within the formation width of the road.

As a further risk mitigation measure, the Local Traffic Committee requested that Council consider a 40kph High Pedestrian Zone and 45⁰ angled parking in Kincaid Street between Fitzmaurice Street and Trail Street as part of the CBD Masterplan.

Resurfacing of Kincaid Street between Fitzmaurice Street and Trail Street will take place before the longer 6.4m bays will be installed. Construction of the permanent islands and installation of the associated line marking and signage as shown on the attached plans will be undertaken in conjunction with the resurfacing works.

RP-7 - ACTIVE TRAVEL PLAN – CENTRAL LINK – BECKWITH STREET

At the 13 June 2024 Local Traffic Committee meeting, the active travel plan for the Beckwith Street segment of the Active Travel Project was an agenda item.

The item was for the entire length of Beckwith Street and the plan that was referenced in the recommendation was for the entire length of Beckwith Street.

However, the plan referenced in the recommendation (design plan C2129) was not attached to the report and included in the business paper. Rather, plans for the intersection of Beckwith Street with Gurwood Street (design plan C2254) and Kincaid Street (design plan C2258) only were attached.

The proposed extension of the Active Travel network was originally conceived as a barrier-separated, contraflow cycleway on the western kerbside of Beckwith Street.

After undertaking extensive community consultation, the concept was redesigned to provide dedicated bicycle lanes along Beckwith Street and improve pedestrian facilities at all adjoining intersections.

Features include:

· dedicated one-way pair cycle lanes

· additional kerb blisters

· pedestrian refuge

· centre medians

· all associated line marking and signage

New raised medians are to be constructed at the intersection of Beckwith Street and The Esplanade to slow traffic and provide a left turn slip lane and pedestrian refuge.

Additional kerb blisters will be installed at each adjoining intersection to narrow the roadway and create inset parking bays and left turn slip lanes.

It is proposed that Gurwood Street be narrowed to two lanes from the western approach to reduce the number of lanes being crossed by cyclists and pedestrians and allow for the creation of additional angled parking spaces between Beckwith Street and Simmons Street.

A new centre median and pedestrian refuge will also be installed at the intersection of Beckwith Street and Travers Street, in conjunction with a kerb blister to allow the cycle lane to transition into the existing Travers Street shared path.

Feedback received from the Police and Transport for NSW committee members on the 13^th June 2024 report was mainly concerned with the interaction of the path with the alfresco dining area of the Sporties Hotel on the corner of Beckwith and Kincaid Streets. Council will consult with the Sporties Hotel before implementation of the ATP at this location to minimise the interaction.

The local Police representative also requested that the existing north and south bound Give Way movement control on Beckwith Street at its intersection with Kincaid Street be changed to a Stop control in accordance with Australian Standards. Those in attendance at the Committee meeting unanimously agreed with the Police request.

Financial Implications

N/A

Policy and Legislation

Roads Act 1993

Transport Administration Act 1998 – Delegations to Councils, regulation of traffic

TfNSW – A guide to the delegation to Councils for the regulation of traffic

Australian Standards

Link to Strategic Plan

Community leadership and collaboration

Objective: Our community is informed and actively engaged in decision making and problem-solving to shape the future of Wagga Wagga

Communicate with our community

Risk Management Issues for Council

There are no risk management issues for Council in adopting the recommendations.

Attachments

1 ⇩.

Local Traffic Committee Minutes - 7 August 2024

Applicant	Takajo Nominees Pty Ltd
Owner	Takajo Nominees Pty Ltd
Directors	Paul and Judith Galloway
Development Cost	$15,700,000
Development Description	Alterations and additions including retention of Home Hotel, ground floor commercial tenancies, off-street parking, shop top housing (levels 1-4) and strata subdivision.

1.	DA24_0188_Submitted Statement of Environmnetal Effects - Provided under separate cover
2 .	DA24_0188_Statement of Heritage Impact - Provided under separate cover
3 .	DA24_0188_Clause 4.6 Variation Justification - Provided under separate cover
4 .	DA24_0188_ ADG Compliance Summary - Provided under separate cover
5 .	DA24_0188_Plans - Provided under separate cover
6 .	DA24_0188 - s4.15 Assessment Report - Provided under separate cover

Applicant	JLM Commercial Pty Ltd
Owner	Wollundry Investments Pty Ltd
Directors	Richard Pottie John Tyrrell Allen Thompson Robert Davies Christopher Chamberlain Rodney Kendall
Development Cost	$6,620,000.00
Development Description	Self-storage units and signage

1 ⇩.	Tolland Renewal Project draft Planning Agreement Explanatory Note Aug 2024
2 ⇩.	Tolland Renewal Project draft Planning Agreement August 2024

Job No.	Link	Amount	Budget Remaining
19608	S7.11 TT8 - Shared Paths - Ashmont and Glenfield	$42,275	$0
19609	S7.11 TT9 – Shared Paths - Boorooma, Estella, Goobagomblin	$200,000	$60,044
19610	S7.11 TT10 – Shared Paths – Bourkelands and Lloyd	$11,306	$0
19611	S7.11 TT11- Shared Paths – Central and North Wagga Wagga	$51,613	$0
19612	S7.11 TT12 – Shared Paths – Between the CBD and Forest Hill	$200,963	$0
19613	S7.11 TT13 – Shared Paths – Forest Hill	$147,660	$0
19614	S7.11 TT14 – Shared Paths – Lake Albert and Tatton	$6,594	$0
19615	S7.11 TT15 – Shared Paths – Mount Austin, Tolland and Turvey Park	$24,680	$0
19618	S7.11 TT17 – Footpaths - Boorooma, Estella, Goobagomblin	$100,000	$155,319
19620	S7.11 TT19 – Footpaths – Central and North Wagga	$33,390	$36,304
19622	S7.11 TT21 – Footpaths – Forest Hill	$120,000	$88,725
19623	S7.11 TT22 – Footpaths - Kooringal	$130,000	$22,835
19624	S7.11 TT23 – Footpaths – Lake Albert and Tatton	$100,000	$129,050
19625	S7.12 TT24 – Footpaths - Mount Austin, Tolland and Turvey Park	$50,000	$232,210
	Additional unallocated S7.11 contributions received via CPI increases in contribution rate	$200,000	N/A
	Total	$1,418,481

1.	DA23/0588 - Section 4.15 Assessment Report - Provided under separate cover
2.	DA23/0588 - Plans - Provided under separate cover
3.	DA23/0588 - Statement of Environmental Effects - Provided under separate cover
4.	DA23/0588 - Traffic Report - Provided under separate cover
5.	DA23/0588 - Flood Assessment - Provided under separate cover

Submission Summary
1	Supportive Be guided by First Nations Peoples and have them maintain and care for the wetland.
	Recommended Changes
	No amendment recommended Extensive consultation has been completed through multiple Mawang Gaway meetings, Reconciliation Action Plan meetings, and individual stakeholder meetings on site. The PoM includes action ‘EM9 – Investigate opportunities to employ Wiradjuri/Wiradyuri person(s) to maintain the wetland and other natural areas’. Other actions to allow further engagement and usage of the wetland include: · ‘E1 – Include Cultural Knowledge holders in major Council events at the Marrambidya Wetland’ · ‘E5 – Encourage harvesting of appropriate plants for cultural use’ and · ‘E6 – Encourage use of the site for Wiradjuri/Wiradyuri cultural tours’.
Submission Summary
2	Not supportive Viewed as a waste of money.
	Recommended Changes
	No amendment recommended The PoM is a legal requirement under the Local Government Act 1993 and Crown Land Management Act 2016.
Submission Summary
3	Supportive Has suggested additional seating, shade and promotion.
	Recommended Changes
	No amendment recommended The PoM includes the actions: · ‘IU6 - Improve seating locations and design’ and · ‘E4 – Increase promotion of the wetland’.
Submission Summary
4	Supportive Does not want to see lighting, BBQs or anything changed that will negatively impact on flora and fauna. Keep it natural but control invasive species.
	Recommended Changes
	No amendment recommended It is not intended for BBQs to be installed at the wetland. Public BBQs are located nearby at Wiradjuri Reserve for community use. Permissible and future uses are listed page 35-36 of the document. If lighting was to be required, low impact lights could only be used in a limited capacity and be located away from the natural habitat areas. The PoM includes action ‘M1 – Control vegetation and weeds’.
Submission Summary
5	Supportive Has suggested: i. Removal of Willows along riverbank ii. Existing walking track to remain open iii. Acknowledgment of variable width public road around river frontage and the great work in formalising access from Wiradjuri Reserve along river frontage iv. Island as shown in diagram of lands should be included in management of wetlands v. Enlargement of vehicle parking on site not needed vi. Undesirable to place additional structures.
	Recommended Changes
	No amendment recommended The PoM includes the following relevant actions for i and ii; · ‘EM8 – Undertake selective vegetation thinning’ · ‘M5 – Maintain and repair walking tracks and levee banks’ Point iii is acknowledged on Page 32 within Table 1: Crown and Council land classification and category details as depicted in Figure 2. The island shown in the diagram is currently under the ‘Aboriginal Places of Significance Plan of Management’, not this PoM. Consultation has suggested additional carparking is required therefore ‘IU4 – Increase size of existing carpark’ was included as a potential future infrastructure upgrade. Any structure that is proposed to be built within the wetland would undergo an assessment to understand the impacts on the floodplain and will only proceed if appropriate.
Submission Summary
6	Supportive Has suggested to minimise aspects of a manicured park by limiting bins and avoid installing BBQs. Remove streetsweeper waste and restrict dogs off lead.
	Recommended Changes
	No amendment recommended There is no intent to install additional bins and BBQs at the wetland. Public BBQs are located nearby at Wiradjuri Reserve for community use. The street sweeper waste cannot continue to be stored within the wetland in the future to comply with the new classification of the land and will be removed. Staff are considering alternate options for managing this. The PoM includes action ‘IU1 – Install additional wetland safety, enforcement and directional signage’ which includes dogs off leads at the wetland.
Submission Summary
7	Supportive Has provided positive feedback on the accessibility to the wetland to enable the community to value this natural place.
	Recommended Changes
	No amendment recommended
Submission Summary
8	Supportive Provided positive feedback on the conservation and protection of natural the ecosystem and providing habitat for native wildlife. Suggested adding cat control as an action. Has suggested several species additions to ‘Appendix 1 Flora and Fauna Species list.’
	Recommended Changes
	Amend wording of action ‘EM1 – Engage licensed contractor to undertake feral animal control’ to now say ‘EM1 – Engage licensed contractor to undertake vertebrate pest management control’ which can include cats. Additional species suggestions have been added to Appendix 1: Flora and Fauna Species list.

1.	Active Resolutions as at 20 August 2024 - Provided under separate cover
2.	Active Notice of Motions as at 20 August 2024 - Provided under separate cover
3.	Resolutions including Notice of Motions have been completed from 18 June 2024 to 20 August 2024 - Provided under separate cover