Ku-ring-gai Council`s winning submission

Transcription

sustaining sydney’s green heart.
b lu e t t m e m o r i a l awa r d s u b m i s s i o n 2 0 1 3 / 2 0 1 4
Council Name
Ku-ring-gai Council
Council Address
818 Pacific Highway, Gordon
Contact Person
John McKee
Email
[email protected]
phone
02 9424 0711
Fax
02 9424 0001
Mayor
Jennifer Anderson
General Manager
John McKee
We re c o g n i s e t h e t r a d i t i o n a l
custodians of the land, the Guringai
people, on whose land we stand.
Cover image:
Twilight Concert 2013, Killara
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Bluett Memorial Award submission 2013/14
Total Population - Council Area
(Source: ABS – Regional Population Growth Table)
114,704
nationally
significant
ecology
134,000 people
by 2036
Population – Urban
114,704
significant
regional
productivity
Population – Rural
N/A
Council Area (sq km)
85km2
Number of Staff
highly skilled
workforce
(Full-time equivalent staff at the end of the reporting period)
462.89
Date of the most recent
organisation structure review
strategic
location
(Sec 333 LG Act)
June 2013
Previous Integrated Planning
and Reporting Category
1
specialist health,
education and
service sectors
Ku-ring-gai Council
3
4
contents
Council Details .................................................................... 02
B r i e f S t a t i s t i c s f o r 2 0 1 3 / 2 0 1 4 .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0 3
E x e c u t i v e S u m m a r y .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0 6
C o m m u n i t y S t r a t e g i c P l a n .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0 8
Principal Activities
Sydney’s green heart
C a p i t a l Wo r k s a n d S e r v i c e s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 3
C u l t u r a l a n d H e r i t a g e .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 9
S p o r t a n d R e c re a t i o n . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 3
E c o n o m i c a n d S o c i a l D e v e l o p m e n t .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 7
B u i l t a n d N a t u r a l E n v i ro n m e n t . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 7
E n v i ro n m e n t a l I n i t i a t i v e s.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 7
Health and Community Services......................................... 81
C o r p o r a t e a n d G o v e r n a n c e.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9 3
L i s t o f P ro j e c t s c o m p l e t e d b y 3 0 J u n e 2 0 1 4 . . . . . . . . . 1 0 0
L i s t o f P ro j e c t s i n p ro g re s s a t 3 0 J u n e 2 0 1 4 . . . . . . . . . 1 0 3
Aw a rd s a n d C i t a t i o n s.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 0 5
S u p p l e m e n t a r y I n f o r m a t i o n .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 0 7
Ku-ring-gai Council
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executive summary
Ku-ring-gai Council manages a large and diverse area encompassing
a growing urban population, vibrant shopping precincts, flourishing
business areas and awe-inspiring national parks.
Known as the ‘green heart’ of Sydney, Ku-ring-gai is a unique
blend of bushland and urban areas, encompassing the natural
rugged beauty of national parkland and the convenience of inner
city living. In Ku-ring-gai residents have access to world-class
sporting facilities, fun-filled playgrounds and parks, quality health
and community services and an abundance of art, music and
cultural events.
During 2013-14 Ku-ring-gai Council has continued to work hard
at achieving our community’s visions and aspirations expressed
by the Community Strategic Plan. Our challenge is to manage a
relatively large and diverse population while continuing to protect
our natural environment. It’s a challenge that we both relish and
take seriously in every aspect of our operations.
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During the past 12 months, Ku-ring-gai Council has been
responsible for some groundbreaking projects, works and
services. While this submission spells out our achievements in
detail, these are the notable examples:
As we move forward we believe we have a clear vision of an
innovative and sustainable future. We are very proud of our
diverse achievements and these are reflected in our entry to the
2014 AR Bluett Awards.
•The nearing completion of the Ku-ring-gai Fitness & Aquatic
Centre costing $17 million, scheduled to open in October 2014.
We commend our entry to you.
•Completion of a substantial redevelopment of the Ku-ring-gai
Library at Gordon costing 1.7 million
•Creation of a new youth space at Gordon next to Ku-ring-gai
Library
•Construction of two new wetlands in Turramurra which are
already attracting wildlife not seen for decades in the area
s
Jennifer Anderson
Mayor, Ku-ring-gai Council
In this we are supported by the community, who have endorsed
our submission to retain the environmental levy for a further five
years until 2019. They also supported our recent application to
the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) to have
the current infrastructure levy made permanent. This was granted
by IPART in June 2014.
•Creation of a 99 hectare biobanking site for biodiversity
conservation
•A reduction in our legal costs of over $360,000 and slashing of
development-related court appeals by 60% through a mediation
program
s
The 2013-14 financial year has been one of further upgrading and
construction of community assets that will last for generations.
We are mindful that residents aged under 30 form a significant
part of our population – higher than the NSW average. We are
also mindful that our population will grow by more than 17% in
just over 20 years – from the current 114,000 to 134,000.
•Expenditure of $4 million on upgrading and creating new parks
and playgrounds
John McKee
General Manager, Ku-ring-gai Council
•Numerous partnerships with government and community
organisations to deliver services and facilities. For example, the
Fresh Tracks rehabilitation program for young residents with an
acquired brain injury.
Ku-ring-gai Council Chambers, Gordon
Ku-ring-gai Council
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c o m m u n i t y s t r at e g i c p l a n
Priorities identified in Council’s Community Strategic Plan
Capital Works and Services
Continued
renewal of roads.
Sport and Recreation
Increased
participation in social, sporting and
recreational activities.
High
quality urban design integrated through plans,
guidelines and urban design services.
A program and funding strategy adopted to
implement new community facilities.
New local parks.
An established program that provides funding to
maintain Council’s assets at a sustainable standard.
Parks, recreational facilities and other public spaces
are a focal point for the community.
Comprehensive Integrated Principal LEP and
Development Control Plan (DCP) completed for the
local government area (LGA) that addresses the
Metropolitan Strategy and North Subregion objectives.
Established service level agreements for all asset
maintenance areas.
New an upgraded open space, community and
recreational facilities that meet the needs of our
changing population.
A
transport network that complies with
accessibility standards
Cultural and Heritage
Aquatic
leisure needs of our changing community met.
Multi-use
sport and recreation facility progressed at
North Turramurra Recreation Area as part of a
staged development process.
Ku-ring-gai
has a recognised cultural, ecological,
heritage and tourism program.
Social and Economic Development
Increased
integration of Council and the
community through Council events.
Business
sustainability strategies developed and
undertaken with participating NSROC councils.
Promotion
of Ku-ring-gai as a place to invest in business
and employment generating activities.
Tourism
business is strengthened.
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Built and Natural Environment
Improved conservation and recovery of flora and fauna.
Increased
corporate understanding and implementation
of best practice ecological management.
Management
of bush fire risk for extreme to high
prioritised areas addresses our need to protect life,
property and the local ecology.
Improved
condition of Ku-ring-gai waterways and
riparian zones.
Improve the adoption of integrated water cycle
management.
Decreased
potable water consumption of community
and Council.
Increase
the use of non-potable water in Council’s
major water using facilities.
Environment Initiatives
Health and Community Services
Increased
volunteer participation, and recognition of
volunteer contributions to the community.
Community
services developed in response to emerging
local needs.
Alternative
energy sources used to supplement
conventional energy use.
Libraries
and information centres that meet and adapt to
changing needs of the community.
Council recognised as a leader in resource use
efficiency.
Established partnerships with other community service
organisations.
Remediation of former landfill sites at St Ives and North
Turramurra.
Continued community confidence in our assessment,
regulatory and environmental processes and educational
events.
Increased environmental awareness within Ku-ring-gai.
Council
and community better adapted to climate
change.
Reduce
Council’s carbon footprint.
Reduce
the community’s carbon footprint.
Council
recognised as a leader in sustainability planning,
action and reporting.
A
sustainability culture established that is engaging and
innovative.
Corporate and Governance
Long
Term Financial Model provides funding options
to address council’s infrastructure renewal gap and
local centre facilities plans and to maintain and improve
service delivery to the community.
Asset asset management strategy that integrates into
Council’s Long Term Financial Model and capital works
program.
Term Financial Model incorporates Council’s
Long
strategic plans.
Council’s revenue base is broadened and increased to
reduce our reliance on rates.
Keep Council’s financial and business services
implemented to identify areas for improvement.
Development assessment and regulatory service
provided that is consistent with Council’s statutory, policy
and planning objectives.
Policies are regularly reviewed to ensure they are
maintained and effectively communicated across
the organisation and, where appropriate, across the
community.
Council
has in place an integrated information system
and trained staff to facilitate the provision of services to
all our customers.
An expanded e-business capability to enable internal
and external customers to conduct business with Council
and access information electronically.
The range of human resource services is enhanced and
remains current with organisational needs.
Ongoing organisational commitment to our customer
service standards to ensure customer satisfaction
through the delivery of quality service.
Note: priorities have been revised in the updated Community Strategic Plan 2030 as of July 2013
A better informed community.
Ku-ring-gai Council
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Vision
Ku-ring-gai will be
a creative, healthy
and liveable place
where people respect
each other conserve
the magnificent
environment and
society for the children
and grandchildren of
the future.
10 Bluett Memorial Award submission 2013/14
Values
Ku-ring-gai’s values are to:
• Care for the local environment and people
• Respect the ne eds of future generations
• Learn and share knowledge
• Behave ethically
• Take responsibility for our actions
• Lead in sustainability
Ku-ring-gai Council
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Ku-ring-gai Fitness and Aquatic Centre
C a p i ta l
wo r k s a n d
s e r v i c es
Ku-ring-gai Council
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C a p i ta l wo r k s a n d s e r v i c es
$17
million
spent
on new
f i t n es s &
a q u at i c
centre
Ku-ring-gai Library at Gordon
We are delivering two major capital works projects in 2013/14 with
the construction of the Ku-ring-gai Fitness & Aquatic Centre and
the redevelopment of Ku-ring-gai Library at Gordon.
W h at w e a c h i e v e d i n
2 0 1 3 /14
N
ear completion of the Ku-ring-gai Fitness &
Aquatic Centre costing $17 million
Completed redevelopment of the Ku-ring-gai
Library at Gordon costing $1.7 million
Ku-ring-gai Council
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K u - r i n g - g a i F i t n es s
& A q u at i c C e n t r e
Ku-ring-gai Library
at G o r d o n
The Ku-ring-gai Fitness & Aquatic Centre replaces the former
West Pymble pool with a multi-faceted health & recreation
centre. The centre contains outdoor covered 50m and
25m pools, an indoor heated 25 metre pool, a health and
recovery pool suitable for aqua-aerobics and hydrotherapy,
a water feature playground, child-minding facilities, a gym,
café and change facilities. The centre is located in the idyllic
surroundings of Bicentennial Park, close to public transport,
cycleways and walking trails.
The Council has given the Ku-ring-gai Library at Gordon a
brand new look and increased the range of services as a result.
The emphasis has been on making the library an inviting social
space full of activity, with quieter areas for study and work.
Benefits of the Ku-ring-gai Fitness & Aquatic Centre are:
•A children’s area with relocatable furniture, interactive
magnetic tree walls and acoustic panels for noise reduction
• A family-friendly centre with a range of uses
• Its proximity to public transport and residential areas
• The range of health and wellbeing facilities and activities
offered
Features include:
•Dedicated study and work rooms with device and laptop
connectivity
•A youth area with booth seating for group study
•A large group communal table with portable acoustic panels
for noise reduction
•A leisurely reading area with a garden outlook
• Raising awareness in the community of the benefits of
exercise
•Centralised service area with self-service features, newly
refurbished workroom and staff areas
• Recovery programs for the injured and unwell normally only
offered by health providers
•Recycled, reused, refurbished furniture as a sustainability
initiative
• Ample free parking for vehicles
•Open, spacious and lounge room feel to the new library –
more seating, more study spaces, colour and function
• Providing a brand new facility for community based service
providers such as local swimming clubs.
• Installation of RFID technology to track items and speed up
borrowing.
Benefits of the new Ku-ring-gai Library at Gordon
•An attractive communal space for work, leisure and study
•Proximity to another new facility for young people – the AWOL
youth centre
•Handy location close to public transport and the local
shopping centre
•The latest in technology including self-scanning of borrowed
items and ports for individual devices such as laptops
•The widest possible range of formats for reading and study
materials.
Ku-ring-gai Council
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C u lt u r a l
a n d H e r i ta g e
Ku-ring-gai Council
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C u lt u r a l a n d H e r i ta g e
Over
6 5 ,0 0 0
people
at t e n d e d
our
events
Curtilage Park, Wahroonga
Art, music and literature play a large role in forming the culture of Ku-ring-gai. As our demographics
are changing, so too is the culture of Ku-ring-gai, and we are promoting inclusion through our
programs and events in the areas of visual and performing art, music and food.
Ku-ring-gai comprises beautiful leafy green suburbs surrounded by national parks, Blackbutt and Blue Gum forests, beautiful
bushland at the Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden, as well as landscaped gardens at Swain Gardens, large private estates and
the gardens at railway stations. Ku-ring-gai contains a significant amount of striking residential architecture, with houses
designed by many of Australia’s prominent twentieth century architects such as John Sulman, Howard Joseland, Hardy
Wilson, Leslie Wilkinson, Ken Woolley, Russell Jack and Harry Seidler. Ku-ring-gai also has a number of significant Aboriginal
heritage sites, which we are helping to protect by supporting the Aboriginal Heritage Office and raising awareness through
the annual Guringai festival and Naidoc Week.
W h at w e a c h i e v e d i n 2 0 1 3 /14
Opened the redeveloped Ku-ring-gai Library at Gordon
Completed two collaborative public art and environmental
projects
Over 8,000 children attended the library storytime programs
Attracted over 65,000 people to our major and minor events
Conducted 184 major and minor events
P
roduced a sustainable event policy and guidelines for
Council events
Introduced new events such as the St Ives Medieval Faire to
be hosted in September 2014 and the Ku-ring-gai’s Got Talent
competition for young performers in March/April 2014
Created a Heritage Committee to oversee protection for
heritage items
Completed Curtilage Park in Wahroonga. The park is situated
between two grand homes - Mahratta and Yaamba - which
form part of the Mahratta Heritage Conservation Area
P
romoted awareness of Aboriginal culture and heritage
through the annual Guringai festival and Naidoc Week
Ku-ring-gai Council
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C u lt u r a l S e r v i c es
& Programs
Council provides an array of cultural facilities and services
for the local community, including visual and creative arts,
libraries and a variety of cultural events.
Ku-ring-gai Art Centre
Established in 1980, the Ku-ring-gai Art Centre is the largest
community art facility provided by local government anywhere
in Australia.
The centre attracts hundreds of students who participate in
term classes, master classes and school holiday activities.
The centre also runs night classes to ensure working
professionals have access to involvement in the arts. The wide
variety of classes include visual arts, creative writing and guitar
classes for all levels of experience. The centre also offers
classes on new trends such as glass bead making and silver
jewellery making.
The art centre hosts monthly exhibitions including an annual
tutors show.
Public Art
Council has purchased and commissioned a number of
public art pieces over the years including a new sculpture
commissioned at Sir Phillip Game Reserve in Lindfield. The
sculpture, completed in July 2013, provides a destination for
people walking along the boardwalk and is also designed to
encourage microbats to roost. It was designed by Macquarie
University student Uma Jeyaseelan and is made of steel and
timber.
Another innovative sculpture using recycled steel was unveiled
at Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden during 2013-14. Using
vehicle parts and pre-loved woks, the sculpture provides a bird
bath and protective habitat for small birds. The sculpture was
funded by the Council’s environmental levy and is another way
of encouraging the public to think laterally about recycling and
protecting the environment.
Library Life
Our philosophy on libraries is that they should be vital sociable
spaces full of activity. Ku-ring-gai Library’s four branches in
Gordon, Lindfield, Turramurra and St Ives host a vast array of
popular events and programs for people of all ages.
The monthly Author Encounters are very popular with
hundreds of people attending. One of the most popular author
encounters featured Richard Glover talking about his latest
book George Clooney’s haircut and other cries for help.
Other programs such as the Seniors Week’s Internet for
Seniors course and library tours were fully booked with long
waiting lists. Our libraries run weekly storytime sessions to
cater for children of various ages. The Rock ‘n’ Tales story
time for children aged three to five is extremely popular with
four sessions per week. Last year 4914 children attended. The
Rock ‘n’ Rhyme and Rock a Bye sessions held twice a week
are aimed at babies up to 36 months. Last year 1330 children
attended Rock a Bye and 1850 children attended Rock ‘n’
Rhyme.
The Little Bang Science Discovery Club co-ordinated by
Ku-ring-gai Library has become an ongoing program. It gives
children the opportunity to discover the wonderful world of
science, participate in basic experiments, and be introduced
to our libraries’ collection of scientific resources to aid in the
discovery.
Our wheelchair accessible Libraribus is a free door-to-door
transport service to our library for less mobile residents to
provide them with books, DVDs and music, and also go to
the grocery store, post office and local shops. We deliver this
service to around 70 residents each week.
Top: Library Lovers Day, Gordon Library Above: Author Encounter with Richard Glover
Ku-ring-gai Council
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During the closure of Ku-ring-gai Library for renovations, staff
completed a project to digitize more than 2000 photographic
images from the Local Studies collection. These were then
added to the library catalogue for easier viewing by the public
and Council staff.
In February 2014 the Blind Date for Library Lovers event was
held, as part of a national event to encourage people to borrow
more books.
In May 2014 St Ives Library hosted a storytime session as part
of the National Simultaneous Storytime in both Mandarin and
English. The English book reading was conducted by the Prime
Minister’s wife, Margie Abbott. The Mandarin book reading was
screened on SBS Television.
Community exhibition spaces
The Council held its photography competition Capture
Ku-ring-gai for a second year in August 2013. Over 300 entries
were received and the Council continues to use the images
in its social media, digital advertising and on its website to
showcase the quality of the entries.
The Ku-ring-gai Art Centre holds regular free exhibitions for the
public and also provides exhibition space at very low cost rates
to the local community. Exhibitions during 2013-14 include the
Abstraction & Contemporary Painting Exhibition in April 2014
and the Mixed Media exhibition in November 2013.
D u r i n g 2 0 1 3 / 1 4, K u - r i n g - g a i
l i b r a r i es w e r e v i s i t e d b y
people who
b o r r o w e d 9 0 4,1 4 9 i t e m s
456,287
St Ives and Wahroonga
Food & Wine Festivals
The Council actively supported two
community-based food & wine festivals
held during 2013-14 with grants of $3000
and $8000 respectively. The St Ives Food
& Wine Festival saw 3,000 people attend,
while the Wahroonga Food & Wine
Festival attracted a crowd of 6,000.
Ku-ring-gai Council
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Cultural Events
Council provides a wonderful array of major events, which are
free for the public to attend.
Pe p p a P i g
was a big hit with the
3 5 ,0 0 0 a t t e n d e e s
a t t h e Fe s t i v a l o n t h e
G re e n
The events held in Ku-ring-gai continue to grow in popularity
each year, with attendance to our signature event, Festival
on the Green, attracting over 35,000 people in May 2014 –
our largest audience ever. All Council events provide a great
opportunity for local suppliers, stallholders, businesses and
performers the opportunity to showcase their products and
services to the local community. Events also allow people to
experience a variety of cultural diversity through a wide range
of performance groups, crafts, food stalls and information about
community organisations.
The 2014 Festival on the Green held in May 2014 included over
750 local community performers entertained on two stages.
Highlights included a performance by Peppa Pig and cooking
demonstrations by Masterchef’s Jay Huxley. The festival offers
a fantastic day out for the family, with free entertainment, stalls,
food and wine, rides and activities for all ages. In addition
to ongoing sustainable event management initiatives, the
festival implemented a number of new waste and sustainability
initiatives such as bin monitoring with assistance from the
University of NSW ‘Volunteer Army’ and ‘Love Food Hate Waste’
cooking demonstration by Jay Huxley.
Other major events include Australia Day celebrations, Twilight
Concert in the Parks Series, the Guringai Festival, Dogs Day
Out and the Wildflower and Garden Festival. Over 65,000
people attended Council’s major events during 2013/14, with
event surveys showing 98% satisfaction was achieved. The two
Twilight Concerts during 2013-14 featured Daryl Braithwaite and
Rhonda Burchmore attracting thousands of concert-goers.
The Festival of Wildflowers is a popular event in the unique
setting of the Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden. The free event
provides something for young and old, and showcases the
garden’s bush land in beautiful wildflower season. Over
100 smaller-scale events were also held at the Ku-ring-gai
Wildflower Garden throughout the year.
P r o t e c t i n g o u r H e r i ta g e
In July 2013, 38 Heritage Conservation Areas (HCA ) were
approved in Ku-ring-gai. An HCA is an area recognised and
valued for its special historical and aesthetic character. Items of
heritage significance may include architectural buildings, trees,
gardens and kerbs. A Heritage Conservation Area protects
not just single homes but whole areas from inappropriate
development.
S u s ta i n a b l e E v e n t
Management
Ku-ring-gai’s Local Environment Plan (LEP) also introduced
planning provisions to protect biodiversity and riparian lands.
The biodiversity provisions in the new LEP seek to protect,
maintain and enhance biodiversity in Ku-ring-gai. The objectives
of the clause relate to the protection and recovery of native flora
and fauna, (including species and ecological communities listed
as threatened in state or federal legislation), their habitat and
linkages between habitat areas. The riparian provisions seek to
protect or enhance waterways and riparian land in Ku-ring-gai
and its downstream catchments. Scenic and cultural values are
also sought to be protected.
The Council has formed a community-based heritage committee
including representatives from the National Trust and the Kuring-gai Historical Society to oversee protection for heritage
items in the local area. Among the initiatives the committee will
consider in coming months are implementing a series of heritage
walks and setting up a fund for owners of heritage homes to
assist in conservation.
Council has introduced a sustainable event management policy
in order to make our events more environmentally sustainable.
Some initiatives that have been introduced at all Council’s
major events include:
• New bin caps and clear signage to help people know
which bin to place their waste. These caps and signage
were purchased with grant funding from the Keep Australia
Beautiful beverage container recycling program.
• All event generators are run on 100% biodiesel made from
soy oil, which is a by-product of soybean processing and is
much more environmentally friendly than petroleum diesel.
• All food stallholders must supply biodegradable serving ware.
• We encourage and, in some cases, only accept fair trade
products. For example, all coffee vendors must use fair trade.
• Event promotional material is printed without the use of water,
with soy-based inks on 100% recycled paper and cardstock.
We re-use as much event signage as possible including
laminated standard event signage and making dates generic
on banners. We also reduce printed materials by using our
website, Facebook page and e-newsletter to promote the
event.
• Provision of a free shuttle bus from the nearest train station if
the event venue is not in walking distance of a train station.
Ku-ring-gai Council
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Curtilage Park at 1536 Pacific Highway Wahroonga was
upgraded by the Council at a cost of around $300,000, with
work completed in February 2014. The park takes its name from
the term ‘curtilage’, which refers to an area of land surrounding
heritage items. The park is situated between two grand homes–
Mahratta and Yaamba – which form part of the Mahratta Heritage
Conservation Area.
Yaamba was built in 1897 by a pastoralist and lies to the north of
the park. In 1902 the land on which Yaamba stands was subdivided and a new home built called Heverlee. This home was
eventually demolished in 1939 by another prominent pastoralist
Thomas Field and Mahratta was built in 1941. Mahratta was
heritage listed in 1999.
A further sub-division in the 1990s saw nearly 2000 sqm of
the land where Mahratta stands given to the Council. The land
remained undeveloped until it was made into a park earlier this
year.
The upgrade of the park includes a new playground in an open
lawn with surrounding gardens, accessible pathways, plus a
drinking fountain, seats and fencing.
A feature of the park is its emphasis on access by pedestrians
rather than vehicles.
Aboriginal Heritage
While the original inhabitants of Ku-ring-gai, the Guringai people,
have all but gone, they have left behind many traces including
middens, rock drawings or carvings and remains of shelters.
These Aboriginal sites within Ku-ring-gai are under constant
threat from development, vandalism and natural erosion. In order
to preserve the many Aboriginal heritage sites in the area,
Ku-ring- gai is a member of the Aboriginal Heritage Office (AHO).
In addition to protecting and preserving significant sites, the AHO
also studies Aboriginal life before colonisation and runs a series
of educational walks and talks for school groups and the general
public. A film documentary, “Aboriginal Sights and Sounds” was
produced jointly by Northern Sydney Aboriginal Heritage Office
and Ku-ring-gai Council in 2011.
extending
the hand of
friendship
to
P o z i e r es ,
France
The Council presented an author talk by well-known author, social
commentator and Wiradjuri woman Anita Heiss as part of the
Guringai Festival in June 2014 and created a special program of
children’s activities to celebrate Naidoc Week in July 2013.
The Guringai Festival is an annual celebration of indigenous
culture and heritage, run in collaboration with nine other Northern
Sydney councils. The festival commences in May with National
Sorry Day and runs through until the end of NAIDOC Week in
July. The aim of the festival is to raise awareness of Aboriginal
and Torres Strait Islander people living in this region of northern
Sydney once inhabited by the Guringai tribe, and the need to
close the gap in health and wellbeing between indigenous and
non-indigenous Australians.
Also as part of the Gu-ring-gai Festival, the Council held its
annual Children’s Voices for Reconciliation at Ravenswood
School for Girls involving many local school groups.
Heritage Reference Committee
The Heritage Reference Committee comprises Councillors,
representatives from National Trust Australia, Australian Institute
of Architects and the Ku-ring-gai Historical Society. The newly
formed committee will provide advice to Council on heritage
matters as well as promoting an understanding and appreciation
of heritage through specific activities and events. The committee
was formed in June 2014 and will meet quarterly.
Friendship agreement with Pozieres
Ku-ring-gai Council approved a new friendship agreement with
the French village of Pozieres, in recognition of the approaching
First World War Centenary. The decision follows the recent
acceptance by the Mayor of Pozieres of a mutual agreement
recognising Ku-ring-gai’s historic ties as a result of the Great War.
Pozieres became the final resting place for more Australian
troops than any other First World War battlefield, many of whom
came from Ku-ring-gai.
The Pozieres Cross, an original carved wooden cross from the
battlefield belonging to the 18th Battalion, is housed in the St
John’s Anglican Church in Gordon. A strong bond has developed
between the battalion, the church and the Council in their
commemorations of ANZAC Day.
The agreement will underpin a series of commemorations in
Ku-ring-gai of the First World War Centenary starting in August
2014.
Historical Society
Council supports the Ku-ring-gai Historical Society through
provision of a community venue and grant funding. The society
collects, preserves and disseminates information on the history
of the Municipality of Ku-ring-gai. The Society uses grant funds to
produce their regular newsletter and in 2013 ran a history writing
competition to celebrate their 50th anniversary.
Ku-ring-gai Council
29
C a l e n d a r o f e v e n t s 2 0 1 3 /1 4
July
August
Introduction to energy efficiency
(Energy Smart program)
Natural Green Cleaning
Workshop
Bees in your Garden talk
Create your spring veggie
garden Workshop
Raingarden Construction
Workshop
September
Bushcare’s Major Day Out
Library Author encounter with
Fiona McIntosh
Julia Quinn
NSW’s diverse forests talk
Library’s Book Club Gettogether with Belinda Alexandra
Seniors in Action - Seminar on
Taxation changes
Seniors in Action - Excursion
Christmas in July
Citizenship Ceremony
Wildflower & Garden Festival
Cryptic Crosswords at
Turramurra Library
Moon Festival Celebrations at
Killara High School
Firewise/ Bush Neighbours
Street Meeting
Citizenship Ceremonies
Abbotsleigh School visit to
Library
Welcome Basket Morning Tea
for New Residents
Introduction to Bushcare
Bees and Antibiotics talk
International Day of People with
Disability
Raingarden Design Workshop
Rainwater Tank Workshop
Twilight Concert at Selkirk
Park - All That Jazz featuring
Rhoda Birchmore with the Ray
Alldridge Jazz Ensemble
and Galapagos Duck
Climate Wise Aged Care
Workshop
Understanding Local Bushfires
Talk
Grow your own food at home
Talking Ticks Seminar
Ber Carroll, Dianne Blacklock
and Lianne Moriarty
Seniors in Action - Seminar
Diabetes Management
Introduction to Water Sensitive
Urban Design Seminar
Seniors In Action - Excursion
Rododendron Festival
Seniors in Action - Seminar
Are You Prepared
Guide Dogs
Seniors In Action - Seminar
The Role of Grandparents
Saving energy – the next steps
talk (Energy Smart program)
Tour of the Town Hall
Library Author Encounter with
Richard Glover
Get Savvy on Solar Talk
(Energy Smart program)
Seniors In Action - Cooking
Demonstration and Restaurant
Experience
Warrimoo Oval Water Project
Tour
Seniors in Action - excursion ANSTO
Habitat Stepping Stones
project talk
December
Remembrance Day at the
Council Chambers
Pamela Burton - The Waterlow
Killings
Dick Whitaker - Old Sydney on
camera
Knit-In at Turramurra Library
November
Dr Brian Boettcher - Six
theatres of war : the true story of
Australian fighter pilot Nat Gould
Twilight Concert at Wahroonga
Park featuring Daryl Braithwaite,
Karl Broadie and Joe Moore
National Tree Planting Day at
Golden Jubilee Oval
October
Library Author Encounter
John Martyn
Workshop
Ku-ring-gai Art Centre Exhibition
Mixed Media, Drawing and
Pottery Exhibition
Fire Wise/ Bush Neighbours
Street Meeting
Loving Leftovers & Healthy
Lunchboxes Seminar
Cryptic Crosswords at
Turramurra Library
Rena Patten Everyday Quinoa
Fire Wise/ Bush Neighbours
Street Meeting
Chanukah - Lighting of the
Menorah at Council Chambers
Mayoral Volunteer Christmas
Function
Researching Eastern Pygmy
Possums talk
Preserving Garden Produce
Workshop
Gordon Library Official
Re-opening
Carol Baxter The Peculiar Case
of the Electric Constable
Droppin’ Hammers Skate and
Scooter Competition
Judy Nunn
Small Spaces Gardening Talk
with Indira Naidoo
Seniors Seminar on Dementia
Energy Smart program wrap-up
Gordon Library Upgrade Open
Day
Natural Christmas Decoration
Activity
Tony Park
January
February
Children & Teenagers
Shorefest Shootout Band Comp
New Resident Welcome Bus
Tour of Ku-ring-gai’s Natural
Environment
Creating bird friendly gardens in
bushfire prone areas
Annual Tutors Show
Library Lovers Day
Jan Latta Talk
Australia Day Citizenship &
Family Fun Day
Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden
Mini-beasts at Night
Seniors Week Festival concert
& Mayoral awards
Clean Up Australia Day at
Australian Plants Society
Walks & Talks
April
Digital Photography workshop
Abstraction and Contemporary
Painting
Workshop
Shorefest Youth Music Festival
Bandicoot Talk
Murder Mystery Night walk
Jan Vincent Revisited
Australian Plants Society
Walks & Talks
Earth Hour with Jay Huxley
Lunar New Year themed
Primary School Storytime Library
Discobility - Disco for Young
People with a Disability
Frank Coates at St Ives Library
Australia’s Social Bees Talk
Lynne Rees Tick talk
Loving Leftovers and Healthy
Lunchboxes
Harmony Day event at Gordon
Library - Colourfest Film
Little Bang Discovery Club at
Gordon Library
Smart Units
Pool to Pond Conversions talk
Raingarden Design Workshop
Seniors Fall Prevention Classes
Gordon - February to April
Macular Degeneration
Open University Australia
seminars at Gordon Library
Lifeline Talk at Gordon Library
Clayworks and Life Drawing
Festival on the Green
Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden Australian Plants Society
Walks & Talks
Rainwater Tank Workshop
Nola Hancock Local
Provenance Talk
May
Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden World Migratory Bird Day – Bird
Watchers Breakfast
HSC Legal Studies Information
Resource Session at Gordon
Library
Seniors Week Event - Creating
an Australian Garden with
Angus Stewart
Natural First Aid Making
Workshop
Nocturnal Walk
March
Creating a Wildlife-Friendly
Garden talk
Mother’s Day Craft at Library
Residents Composting
Workshop at Kimbriki
June
Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden Australian Plants Society
Walks & Talks
Freaky Friday 13th Night Walk
Printmaking, Botanical Art,
Colour & Design and Silver and
Beaded Jewellery
New Resident Welcome Bus
Tour of Ku-ring-gai’s Natural
Environment
Author Encounter with Anita
Heiss for the Guringai Festival
Open University Australia
seminar at Gordon Library
Little Bang at Lindfield Library
Building Sustainable Homes
workshop
Legal Resources Talk at
Gordon Library
HSC Workshop at
Gordon Library
Diabetes Awareness Talk at
Lindfield Library
Introduction to Bushcare and
WH&S
Australia’s Biggest Morning Tea
at St Ives Library
Ku-ring-gai Parent Forum Anxiety and Adolescence
Author Encounter at Lindfield
Library Cecile Yazbek
Guringai Festival Event
Children’s Voices for
Reconciliation
Assertive Communication
Computer Pals for Seniors talk
at Lindfield Library
Ku-ring-gai Parent Forum
Alcohol Fuelled Violence
Hornsby Ku-ring-gai Youth
Forum
How to Read Food Labels
Seniors in Action - Japanese
Cooking Demonstration and
Restaurant experience
Kurrajong Radio Musuem
Morpeth
Library Author Encounter at
St Ives Library - Peter Grose
Mixed Media, Drawing and
Pottery Exhibition
Social Media for Groups
Seminar at Gordon Library
Seniors Fall Prevention Classes
Lindfield. February to April 2014
Ku-ring-gai Parent Forum Help! I’m a parent of a teenager
Our Big Kitchen
Seniors in Action
Hearing Forum
Dogs Day Out
Movie Night - No Impact Man
Sydney Observatory
Ku-ring-gai Council
31
Greengate Park, Killara
Sp o r t a n d
r e c r e at i o n
Ku-ring-gai Council
33
Sp o r t a n d r e c r e at i o n
$8.8
million
spent
acquiring
land for
new
lo c a l
pa r k s
Roseville Chase Bowling Club, by JRoussel, 2013 Capture Ku-ring-gai Photo Competition
Sport and recreation is important to Ku-ring-gai. It helps to create a happier, healthier
and more connected community. We encourage people to embrace active lifestyles
by providing a variety of places and opportunities to play and relax.
This is significant on a regional level as Sydney’s North Shore has a growing population and a shortage of local parks
and sports facilities. To address this, we are implementing our Open Space Acquisition Strategy which is funded by
development contributions. To date, Council has identified and re-zoned land for new parks and roads in St Ives,
Turramurra, Gordon, Lindfield, Killara and Wahroonga and has spent over $42 million in the past few years acquiring land.
These new parks will provide recreation areas for all local residents, particularly those living in new apartment buildings.
To address the shortage of sports facilities, we are working closely with sports clubs and residents to build sustainable
sports grounds, playgrounds, parks, swimming pools, netball, tennis and multi-sport courts and clubhouse facilities.
We spent $8.8 million in acquiring land for new local
parks.
$
4 million on upgrading parks and playgrounds
$
2.8 million on upgrading sports fields
N
ear completion of the Ku-ring-gai Fitness & Aquatic
Centre costing $17 million
Continued work on the $24 million North Turramurra
Recreation Area project
Completed Curtilage Park – a heritage themed
pedestrian-friendly park in Wahroonga
Completed construction of Greengate Park in
Bruce Avenue, Killara
Began detailed designs for an extension of Cameron Park
in Turramurra
Began detailed designs for streetscaping of St Johns
Avenue in Gordon
Received multiple awards for Ku-ring-gai’s open space
acquisition program and Greengate Park
Increased participation in the Active Ku-ring-gai Program
by nearly 5% and in the Active Kids program by 40%
Jubes Moutain Bike Park, Wahroonga by MKesby, 2013 Capture Ku-ring-gai Photo Competition
Ku-ring-gai Council
35
N o r t h T u r r a m u r r a R e c r e at i o n A r e a
The North Turramurra Recreation Area will provide much
needed sports and recreational facilities to Ku-ring-gai. We
are remediating the disused waste tip and landfill site next
to our North Turramurra Golf Course to create a new $24
million sports precinct that will include:
• Eleven newly constructed golf holes and an overhaul of seven
existing holes to deliver a longer, more challenging golf course
• A fully constructed artificial wetland.
• State-of-the-art irrigation from dam and sewer mining systems
making the use of water at the site fully sustainable year round
•N
ew floodlit synthetic and turf multipurpose sports fields
covering over 33,000m2
• Four new floodlit practice netball courts
• Separate off street parking for golf patrons and sports field
users
This year we finished construction of the sewer treatment
plant, integrated the water storage dam, relocated the
telecommunication tower and constructed five new golf holes.
Stabilisation and capping of the former landfill site is complete
and the artificial wetland is fully constructed.
• New surrounding parkland with children’s playground,
barbecue and picnic facilities
The community has shown overwhelming support for the
project, which is funded by a special rate variation, Section 94
funds, a $2 million Federal Government grant and Council’s
Golf Course Improvement Reserve.
• Walking track linking the recreation area to bushland trails.
.
• New change rooms and community meeting rooms
K u - r i n g - g a i F i t n es s a n d A q u at i c C e n t r e
Nestled within the 16-hectare Bicentennial Park at West
Pymble, this multi-purpose facility worth $17 million will
meet the current and future needs of our community.
The Ku-ring-gai Fitness & Aquatic Centre features:
• Increased number of car parking spaces
• Refurbished outdoor 50-metre pool and learn to swim pool
• Landscaping and shade trees
• New indoor 25-metre heated pool with eight lanes
• Grey water recycling
The original West Pymble 50-metre outdoor pool was no longer
meeting the growing demand for aquatic facilities and services
in the local area. Our community told us they wanted year-round
swimming, new facilities and amenities, play areas for kids and a
place to socialise and catch up with friends.
• Warm water program pool
• Co-generation heat exchange system.
• Indoor and outdoor toddlers pool and water play area
Council has entered into an innovative management model with
the YMCA which moderates the risks and rewards associated
with the first few years trading of the new centre.
The indoor aquatic centre, opening in Spring 2014, will better
meet the needs of our community into the future, providing
new services that will comfortably accommodate our growing
population.
• Child minding/play room
• Change rooms and amenities
• Gym with multi-purpose fitness and meeting rooms
• Cafe with internal and external serveries for centre patrons and
Bicentennial Park users
• Community swim club facilities
Funding comes from numerous sources, a significant one being
the development of a 26 lot subdivision combining Council’s
surplus land holdings at South Turramurra with the NSW
Department of Planning and Infrastructure’s residue land from
the abandoned B2 Freeway link.
Ku-ring-gai Council
37
C r e at i n g n e w p l a c es t o p l ay
Through land acquisition and other methods to increase capacity at existing sites, we are creating new places for play and leisure activities
(Acquisition $6 million embellishment $1,200,000)
Council identified the need for a new local park in Killara
to support the development of medium-density residential
apartments and provide passive recreation, healthy outdoor
pursuits and community building opportunities. Council purchased
three houses on the corner of Greengate Lane and Bruce Avenue
to develop new parkland, and after public consultation, the park
was designed to be a safe, open and child-friendly venue within
walking distance for local residents.
This new local park provides a range of accessible and visible
spaces for activities such as free running play, an amphitheatre
embankment for informal community events and gatherings, a
picnic shelter and barbecue, a children’s playground, and a quiet
contemplative space, all within a landscape setting of native
and exotic trees and shrubs that complement the character of
the neighbourhood. A perimeter fence set among the gardens
contains most of the park.
The park was completed and opened to the public in December
2013.
Cameron Park extension
(Acquisition $6.1 million; embellishment $1,250,000)
Turramurra’s popular Cameron Park is set to double in size
following Council’s purchase of four residential properties in
Gilroy Road. A concept design plan has been approved by
Council, which includes open grassy areas, trees, gardens,
toilet and a multi-use area with picnic shelter, barbeque, outdoor
ping pong table and perimeter fencing. The park will provide for
passive and active play and recreation and add to the existing
popular playground and junior cycle track site. Documents are
nearing completion for the park to be tendered for construction,
planned to be completed by the end of 2015.
Charles Bean Sportsfield, Lindfield ($1,000,000)
Ku-ring-gai’s first all-weather synthetic playing field and a new
community centre were completed at the former UTS Lindfield
oval site and dedicated to Council as part of a voluntary planning
agreement between Council and the developer of the site,
Defence Housing Australia (DHA).
Instead of paying Section 94 development contributions for
a medium-density residential project, DHA has provided
infrastructure benefitting the whole community. This is a great
way of providing new community facilities for our growing
population at relatively small cost to Council.
Under the agreement, Council paid the cost difference between a
natural turf field and a synthetic field, as well as adding floodlights
and an extra storey on the community centre for change rooms
and accessible public toilets. Other partners contributing to the
project include Northern Suburbs Football Association ($100,000)
and the NSW Community Building Partnership ($40,000).
The oval and community centre were completed in 2013 and are
now being extensively used by sporting groups such as soccer
and hockey.
s pa c es a n d p l a c es f o r l e i s u r e a n d r e c r e at i o n
We upgraded many of our existing sport grounds, parks and playgrounds
Curtilage Park, Wahroonga ($315,000)
Allan Small Park ($900,000)
Curtilage Park, at 1536 Pacific Highway Wahroonga, is land
given to Council in 1992 that has finally been opened to the
public for use as a local park. The park takes its name from
the term ‘curtilage’, which refers to an area of land surrounding
heritage items. The park is situated between two grand homes–
Mahratta and Yaamba – which form part of the Mahratta Heritage
Conservation Area.
East Killara’s sport and recreation precinct has undergone a
major upgrade to increase capacity of the space and improve
drainage to enable water to be stored and recycled for irrigation.
The works have included staged delivery of:
Curtilage Park at 1536 Pacific Highway Wahroonga was
designed by Council to be sympathetic to the surrounding
heritage properties. After the completion of a Conservation
Management Plan, the design was approved by Heritage NSW
for construction. The park retains the existing open lawns,
perimeter gardens and front fence and gates of the original
property with added seats, playground, paths, fences, bubbler
and interpretive sign. The construction was completed in
February 2014.
•A multi-sports court – a fenced and enclosed space with a
rebound wall that allows tennis, basketball, netball, touch
football and soccer to be played in it. This was partly funded
by a $37,000 grant from the NSW Department of Sport and
Recreation.
•Stormwater harvesting and storage facility for irrigation, plus a
stormwater filter garden, all funded by our environmental levy
•Reconstructed sports field with a newly graded surface,
synthetic wicket and field drainage, including recycling leftover
fill material from the Ku-ring-gai Fitness & Aquatic Centre
project. $20,000 was funded by the NSW Government’s
Community Building Partnership.
•Floodlights jointly funded by Northern Suburbs Football
Association, Gordon Soccer Club and a NSW Department of
Sport and Recreation grant.
•Upgrading the tennis pavilion and amenities block to include an
accessible unisex toilet.
•Construction of a storage room with the assistance of a $2,000
contribution from Gordon Football Club.
Works currently being finalised include the toddlers’ playground
upgrade and improvements to the access roadway and car
park as well as the accessible space to meet revised access
standards. Runoff from the car park will be collected into rain
gardens for treatment prior to entering the stormwater system.
This final stage of the work is planned for completion in early
2015.
Charles Bean Sportsfield, Lindfield
Ku-ring-gai Council
39
Archdale Park ($27,000)
This local park, originally built to provide an attractive and
peaceful spot for respite to visitors to Neringah Hospital, has
been embellished with an accessible shelter and chess table to
improve capacity and leisure options for the increasing numbers
of local residents..
Bancroft Park Playground ($136,000)
New play equipment has been installed at Bancroft Park.
The revitalised play space includes a dinosaur climber and
sandstone dinosaur eggs, speaking tubes, a Viking swing and
playhouse set within the toddler’s cycle path that provides new
play opportunities for local children and attendees of the school
holiday program at Council’s adjacent Ku-ring-gai Art Centre and
sculpture garden.
The next stage is a unisex accessible toilet to be installed nearby,
due for completion by the end of 2014.
Wahroonga Park ($600,000)
The much loved playground at Wahroonga Park built in 1996
was a priority to be refurbished in the adopted Wahroonga Park
Precinct Landscape Masterplan. Plans were completed and
tenders called with works commencing in March 2014. The
works include a fenced area with enlarged toddlers’ playground
under shade sail with equipment for inclusive play, a cubby
house, train with platform, musical elements, chalk drawing,
swings, slide and rocker, and plenty of seating and a bubbler.
The remaining area contains an imaginative play area with a
sunken shipwreck, spinner track ride, and rodeo springer that will
suit older children. The existing swing area has been increased
to provide an additional net swing and an accessible swing. The
site planting includes new feature trees and ornamental shrubs
and groundcovers in keeping with the existing site landscape
character. Works are due to be completed by September 2014.
Cricket pitches at Primula Oval and Barra Brui Oval
($40,000)
In partnership with the North Shore Junior Cricket Association and
Northern Suburbs Cricket Association, we upgraded the cricket
pitches at Primula Oval, Lindfield, and Barra Brui Oval, St Ives.
The new synthetic pitches have been made longer and wider to
cater for all ages and allow all-weather play. The projects were
equally funded by the two cricket associations and Council.
Koola Park, East Killara
Golden Jubilee Field ($1,430,400)
Koola Park ($3,500,000)
One of the busiest baseball grounds in Sydney, Golden Jubilee
Field is built on a rehabilitated landfill site in North Wahroonga,
prone to settlement, sink holes and minor landslides. It is also the
site shared by model aeroplanes, soccer and dog off-leash users.
We are now implementing the masterplan, which improves
the safety of the grounds as well as adding great new features
including:
Ku-ring-gai’s largest recreation facility, Koola Park in East Killara
is set to become even bigger with a major upgrade of staged
works. Works completed by June 2014 include:
• Two senior and six junior baseball diamonds
•the sewer upgrade connection, from a septic system
• Floodlights to allow night time training and competition games
including power upgrade
•cricket backnet fence extensions
• Practice batting cages
Planning and design works for tender documents to deliver future
stages are well underway for:
• Recycled leachate irrigation system and storage tank
•An innovative stormwater harvesting system that collects water
from nearby Rocky Creek when flows are high and pumps the
water uphill and underground for 500m to a 600,000-litre storage
tank located under the four new cricket nets.
•removal of environmental weeds
• Twin barbecues
•Reconstruction and levelling of the three existing playing fields
with new sub-surface drainage, irrigation and turf, including an
extra playing field, bringing it to four
• Installation of dugouts and scorers’ shelters
•New turf wicket table and synthetic wicket
• Car park upgrade with more spaces
• Perimeter exercise path.
The existing playground will be refurbished in 2015.
•Floodlights for night competition and training
•A shared exercise circuit around the park’s boundary for walking,
jogging and cycling
•A children’s playground
Tennis Courts ($330,000)
•Additional parking spaces and drop-off zone within the park to
ease parking pressure and improve safety at peak periods for
park users and high school students opposite the site
As part of our annual sports courts refurbishment program, we
re-surfaced 10 tennis courts across four locations, including six
acrylic surface courts and four synthetic grass courts.
•New fencing, landscaping and tree planting
Turramurra Memorial Park and Karuah Park
($37,000 for design works)
•Drainage swales to manage stormwater runoff into surrounding
bushland.
We secured a $332,000 NSW Office of Water grant for
installation of a stormwater harvesting system and a NSW Sport
and Recreation grant of $100,000 to help fund the construction
of the additional playing field. North Shore Junior Cricket
Association also secured a $30,000 grant from NSW Sport and
Recreation to assist with the relocation and expansion of the
cricket nets.
Works on the staged project began in May 2012 and will be
complete by end of 2016.
Design was completed and tender documents are underway
for an additional recreation activity area as proposed in the
adopted Turramurra Memorial Park and Karuah Park Landscape
Masterplan. While most playgrounds in Ku-ring-gai cater for
infants and primary school children, the recreation precinct will
cater for older children and families and include a picnic shelter,
ping-pong table, basketball practice area, spinning net climber
and hammocks surrounded by accessible paths and seating
walls. The static exercise area will be relocated and renewed
and link paths are being designed to enable access around
the park while retaining a large open grassy space for informal
games. This visible new activity area will add to the recreation
opportunities for everyone in the local community and beyond.
Works are due to be completed in 2015.
Roseville Park Master Plan ($20,000)
The Council is proceeding with a master plan for Roseville Park,
located between Clanville Road and Chelmsford Avenue in
Roseville. Consultants were appointed in April 2014 to undertake
the Landscape Masterplan, including community consultation.
Two community meetings were held with residents in May 2014
to gain insights and feedback into how the park is currently used
and potential future uses. Residents in the area were also invited
to complete a survey.
Following the meetings, and including consideration of the site
heritage and existing vegetation, a draft master plan has been
prepared, incorporating facilities and improvements to guide any
future the development of the park over the next 10 to 15 years.
The masterplan will be finalised for public exhibition in August
2014, before being finalised and presented to Council.
Ku-ring-gai Council
41
Warrimoo Oval Clubhouse and site works
($1,082,000)
We completed construction of a new community hall and
clubhouse with kitchen, canteen, meeting room, storage and
an accessible unisex toilet which were opened in September
2013.
The project is a community partnership with St Ives Football
Club funding the kitchen in the new building, which is much
larger than their previous premises. They also replaced the
kitchen and roof in their old clubhouse before moving out,
which is a great asset for the new tenants, the St Ives Guides.
At the same site Council received development consent to
undertake alterations and additions to the St Ives North Scout
Hall, with work ongoing jointly between Council and the scouts.
This work is expected to be completed in September 2014.
The existing amenities block has been upgraded and
landscaped with improved access and parking for the whole
site.
All of these works will make it possible to begin construction of
the St Ives Village Green youth precinct in 2014/15, which will
include a BMX skate park, youth event space, basketball half
court and expanded children’s playground at the site of the old
St Ives Girl Guides and Scout Halls, for which demolition has
been approved.
The Warrimoo Upgrade Project was jointly funded by a
$150,000 grant from the NSW Government’s Community
Building Partnership, Council, the Scouts and St Ives Football
Club.
Sp o r t s f i e l d,
Pa r k a n d
p l ayg r o u n d
wo r k s
11
15
8
6
1.Curtilage Park
2.Greengate Park
1
13
3
3.Cameron Park
4.Charles Bean Sportsfield
10
5.Allan Small Park
6.Archdale Park
7.Bancroft Park
12
8.Wahroonga Park
5
9.Primula Oval
2
10.Barra Brui Oval
11.Golden Jubilee Field
12.Koola Park
13.Turramurra Memorial Park & Karuah Park
14.Roseville Park
9
Sports field, park or
playground
14
7
4
15.Warrimoo Oval
Works completed or in progress in 2013/14
Ku-ring-gai Council
43
Awa r d s f r o m Pa r k s &
Leisure Australia
In March 2014 Greengate Park in Killara was awarded the NSW Open Space Design and
Management Award by Parks & Leisure Australia. A second award – the NSW Open Space Planning
Award – was presented to the Council for its Open Space Acquisition Strategy. The program was also
recognised in 2014 with an award from the Australian Institute of Landscape Architects.
Ac t i v e
Ku-ring-gai
Program
While providing places and spaces for
play is an important part of our sport and
recreation program, we also run fitness
activities to directly encourage healthy
lifestyles.
Our Active Ku-ring-gai Program is
growing from strength to strength,
offering a variety of fun and affordable
activities to suit people of all ages,
interests and fitness levels. We adjust
our program every year to suit fitness
trends and community needs.
The program included tai chi, Pilates,
gym without walls, ballroom dancing,
social tennis, junior golf, walking groups,
yoga and the Active Kids school holiday
program.
Compared with the 2012-13 financial
year, the Active Ku-ring-gai program
achieved nearly a 5% increase in
participation, from 984 attendees to
1025. The Active Ku-ring-gai school
holiday program achieved a 40% uplift
in participation rates from the previous
year, from 795 to 1113.
Ku-ring-gai Council
45
Australia Day 2014
Social and
Ec o n o m i c
D e v e lo p m e n t
Ku-ring-gai Council
47
S o c i a l a n d Ec o n o m i c D e v e lo p m e n t
C apture
Ku-ring-gai
photo
competition
a s u cc es s -
over
300
e n t r i es
One of Ku-ring-gai’s up and coming small businesses, The Bakerie at 773 Pacific Hwy, Gordon
Ku-ring-gai is an area of local centres and villages. Our economy revolves more around
small businesses, boutique stores and cosy eateries than large commercial ventures.
For us economic development is about creating an environment that promotes sustainable business growth,
investment, employment generation and making it easier for people to do business with Council. Social
development involves strengthening the identity and brand of Ku-ring-gai by listening to residents and providing
platforms for them to share their views with each other and build community.
Led by local councillors and directors, our economic development and social advisory committee sets direction by
prioritising initiatives that deliver real economic outcomes for Ku-ring-gai. Initiatives include strengthening support
for local business, upgrading neighbourhood centres, finding new ways to activate local spaces, increasing our
use of social media and improving our website. We are also investigating opportunities to better promote our
shopping centres, attract new investment into the area and expand tourism.
2 0 1 3 /14
Established Local Economy and Employment
as one of six key themes in our 2030
Community Strategic Plan
Continued the Economic and Social
Development Advisory Committee (ESDAC)
N
egotiated an agreement with Transport for
NSW to guarantee commuter parking in Killara
P
lanned a new computer-based tool called
Web Map
Launched the Activate Ku-ring-gai program
to stimulate civic pride and economic
development
Sponsored the Welcome Basket, supporting
local business and welcoming new residents
Increased our database for e-news to 6500
subscribers
dded Instagram to Ku-ring-gai Council’s
A
Facebook, Twitter and YouTube sites
Capture Ku-ring-gai photo competition held
with over 300 entries
H
eld a Family Fun Day to engage the
community in ideas for the Lindfield master
plan
P
lanned new community events such as
St Ives Medieval Faire
Ku-ring-gai Council
49
Economic and Social Development Advisory
Committee (ESDAC)
To help drive the change in Ku-ring-gai, ESDAC was
established as an advisory group. Comprised of councillors
and directors, ESDAC ’s primary function is to listen and
discuss ideas and initiatives, and make recommendations to
where and how Council should invest resources to support
our economic development program. The group meets every
quarter.
Partnership with Transport for NSW
The Council has entered into an agreement with Transport for
NSW to guarantee permanent commuter car parking at the
Culworth Avenue car park in Killara.
The car park is located next to Killara railway station and
currently owned by the Council.
In a deed of agreement signed in June 2014, Transport for
NSW will acquire 3667 sqm of the site in return for taking over
the permanent management of car parking on this portion of
the site.
An independent valuation has ensured the best possible return
for the community, which has a high level of interest in the car
park’s future. In July 2014 the Council received $7 million from
Transport for NSW for the compulsorily acquired portion of the
site.
St Ives Medieval Faire
Continued improvements to website
A reclassification process for the remainder of the site
to change its use from community to operational land is
continuing in 2014.
Following its decision to create a tourism and visitor precinct
around St Ives, the Council has planned a new event called the
Medieval Faire which will take place in September 2014.
•F
ind out what’s near you: a function allowing residents to
enter their home address and find out their bin collection dates,
ward/Councillor information, what’s on nearby and Council
facilities within 5km
Ku-ring-gai E-News
During 2013-2014 we increased our database of subscribers
to this monthly e-newsletter to 6500. The monthly e-news
provides a summary of events and news about the Council and
every page on our website allows viewers to subscribe to it
easily and quickly.
A field of the world’s best jousters – including knights from
Germany, the Netherlands and Norway – along with the top
Australian jousters will re-enact the centuries- old sport of
jousting. Another highlight of the Faire will be a Viking battle reenactment.
Live birds of prey with falcons, recreating medieval hunting and
falconry. Also on offer will be traditional archery complete with a
‘have-a-go’ section; a trebuchet in action which is a giant catapult
used in medieval sieges, plus wandering minstrels, a medieval
tavern and displays of arts and crafts from the Middle Ages. The
event is expected to draw over 10,000 visitors over two days.
• Find a facility: allows the public to search for a facility that suits
their needs. For example, searching for a park in St Ives with a
playground and picnic table
• Online bookings for clean-up services
• Dynamic keyword search: starts looking for relevant pages
before you even press ‘search’
• Live chat: allows the public to instant message with a customer
service officer online
• Social media integration: allows people to ‘share’ pages on
their Facebook, Twitter or email networks.
2013 Capture Ku-ring-gai Photo Competition winner in Our streetscapes category, Mona Vale Road, Pymble, by Max Poignand
• Dynamic translation: ability to translate the entire site into the
four most popular languages spoken in homes in Ku-ring-gai
• A cut-down mobile version of the site: this includes a “Report
a problem” form that allows residents to take a photo and report
problems direct to Council on the go such as pot holes, fallen
trees and blocked drains
• Accessibility: a number of new accessibility features have been
included to allow everyone, including people with disabilities, to
access the website more easily, ensuring we met our obligations
under the Website Content Accessibility Guidelines 2.0.
Capture Ku-ring-gai Photo Competition
The Capture Ku-ring-gai Photo Competition was held for a second
year and attracted over 300 entries.
As part of the competition we included a community voting section
on Facebook, which really engaged the community, receiving
many positive comments about the beauty of
Ku-ring-gai and generating a sense of community pride. A
selection of evocative images now feature on the Council website
and the competition will be run again in 2014/15.
Using social media to build community
Ku-ring-gai Council embraces social media as an effective way
to communicate and engage with the public, and administers
various social media channels relating to different audiences
and interests. In May 2014 we added Instagram to our existing
social media sites and will use this channel to further promote the
Capture Ku-ring-gai photo competition.
Our followers on social media continue to grow. For example,
Ku-ring-gai Council’s Facebook site now has nearly 5000 ‘likers’.
n e a r ly
5 ,0 0 0
‘likers’
Ku-ring-gai Council
51
New computer tool – Web Map
Web Map is an easy-to-use online mapping service that
will help people plan their activities and find services they
might need. The service unlocks a comprehensive range of
information and search functions for the first time, allowing
people to make decisions and access items of interest at a
time that suits them. Web Map will be publicly launched at the
end of 2014.
Some of the available functions include:
•Land parcel mapping and legal descriptions
•Property related information
•Aerial photography of Ku-ring-gai from 2012, 2011, 2005,
1988, 1975, 1968, 1956 and 1943
•Find a facility – schools, childcare, playgrounds, parks, dog off
leash areas etc.
•Heritage items and areas
•Map layers – planning zones, development standards,
topography, bush fire prone land, vegetation etc.
•Federal, State and Local Government Electoral boundaries
•Measurement and printing tools
•Link to Google Street View
Welcome Basket sponsorship
We are the major sponsor of an innovative business enterprise
by a local Turramurra resident, The Welcome Basket. New
residents are welcomed to Ku-ring-gai by a friendly face
delivering a gift basket that includes useful community
information and discounts from local businesses. This supports
our social and economic development objectives by creating a
village atmosphere when welcoming new residents to the area
and encouraging local shopping. As part of the sponsorship,
Council holds welcome morning teas with the Mayor twice a
year, increasing the social and community benefits.
The new Web Map tool will be launched to the public later in 2014
Princes St Shops
• Garden walls low enough to provide seating
A new design for Princes Street shops in Turramurra delivered
expansive public areas with good accessibility and safety and a
better shopping experience for customers.
• Garden beds with low shrubs for transition from the upper
footpath level to the lower level
The improvements have to revitalised the shops with new
paving, seating and landscaping, making it easier for people to
park, shop, dine and socialise.
• Steps and ramps at key locations
The new shops have:
• Wide concrete footpaths at the lower level in front of the shops
for pedestrians and outdoor dining
• Fixed timber seats and litter bins
• Bundling’ overhead power lines so large deciduous trees can
grow on the upper level for shade and shelter .
Construction began in July 2013 and was completed in August
2013.
2013 Capture Ku-ring-gai Photo Competition winner in Environment and sustainability category, Turramurra Community Garden by Ashley King
Ku-ring-gai Council
53
Ac t i vat e K u - r i n g - g a i
The Activate Ku-ring-gai program was launched in 2013. It aims
to stimulate civic pride and economic development – both public
and private – in key suburbs in Ku-ring-gai. So far the program
has been rolled out in two suburbs – Lindfield and Turramurra –
with more to come. The main drivers of Activate Ku-ring-gai are
community engagement through informal events and surveys;
master planning based on community ideas and feedback and
consultation with local business owners and on-the-ground action
to stimulate civic pride and a sense of community ownership in
local centres.
Activate Lindfield
In February 2014, we held a Family Fun Day in Lindfield to attract
feedback and ideas from the community on what they would
like to see happen in Lindfield in the future. The event attracted
several hundred local residents and business people to talk faceto-face with councillors and staff about the possibilities. A petting
zoo, free drinks and food and face painting added atmosphere
and a relaxed setting for people to share and discuss ideas. From
this event we used feedback to form a preliminary plan, including
a new multi-purpose community facility and library, a new public
street, road improvements, a major new park and public plaza,
short-stay and commuter parking and commercial uses to
activate the precinct. Council will now finalise a masterplan for the
site in partnership with Transport NSW.
Activate Turramurra
The master planning process commenced for Turramurra in late
2013, with an independent consultant surveying residents and
business owners on future needs. This feedback will form the
basis of a Community Facilities Study which will be finalised by
September 2014. A Family Fun Day is planned for early August
in Turramurra, backed up by an online survey which is open until
mid August. In the interim, an anti-litter campaign and ‘adopt a
planter box’ campaign was launched in Turramurra in June 2014.
The campaign will see attractive new litter bins installed in the
shopping centre, streets and footpath cleaning and maintenance
stepped up and planter boxes pruned and cleaned. Business
owners are being encouraged to take care of planter boxes
located outside their businesses.
St Ives Precinct
As an initial step to activate the St Ives precinct, which includes
the Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden, St Ives Showground and
Ku-ring-gai Community Nursery, we created a new position
of the St Ives Precinct Coordinator. The precinct coordinator
aims to attract tourism to the area through increased events
and marketing. A new event to be hosted over two days is the
St Ives Medieval Faire at the Showground in September 2014.
This event will feature jousting, birds of prey, re-enactments of
historic battles, giant catapults and an array of stalls featuring
arts and crafts from the Middle Ages.
As part of plan to increase visitation numbers to the Wildflower
Garden, a new interpretative visitor centre is being built, which
is expected to open by October 2014.
Business Breakfast Seminar Series
This seminar series starting in August 2014 will feature
inspirational stories, practical presentations and opportunities
to quiz industry experts, Council staff and successful local
businesses. The seminars aim to provide an overview of
the common issues involved in setting up and running small
business and offer practical advice on how to tackle these
issues as well as networking opportunities.
The Breakfast Series will also offer specialised sessions for
aspiring entrepreneurs, helping them turn their creative talents
and ideas into a business.
Free advice for local businesses
In July 2014, the Small Biz Bus visited Gordon and in August
it will visit Turramurra. The Small Biz Bus provides practical,
free and independent advice to local business owners. Also
planned for later this year are How To Guides to help new
businesses better navigate Council processes.
Building Better Business Partnerships
Ku-ring-gai received a grant from the EPA’s Waste Less
Recycle More program valued at $246,000. The Building Better
Business Partnerships project is ongoing and aims to grow the
skill base of small businesses in the four partner Council areas
of Ku-ring-gai, North Sydney, Lane Cove and Willoughby.
A key achievement was the launch of a new in-depth analysis
system for the existing small business members. This review
looks more thoroughly at the potential for a business to
maximise its efficiency in energy, water and waste.
Recruitment of new businesses is continuing via face-to-face
visits, participating in Council events such as Festival on The
Green and conducting workshops for small business. The
highly successful ‘Your Business Can Change the World’
seminar was presented in June 2014.
Ku-ring-gai Council
55
250kL tank at Council’s South Turramurra
residential sub-division development, which will
be used to augment the existing underground
tanks at the nearby Auluba Ovals.
B u i lt a n d
n at u r a l
environment
Ku-ring-gai Council
57
B u i lt a n d n at u r a l e n v i r o n m e n t
In just
over
20 years
Ku-ring-gai’s
p o p u l at i o n
will
increase
b y n e a r ly
17%
Ku-ring-gai’s population is currently 114,700 and growing at a steady rate.
The projected population is 134,000 by 2036.
Council has expertly navigated conflicting objectives from the community and the NSW Government in developing Local Environment
Plans (LEPs) and Development Control Plans (DCPs) that meet our requirements under the Sydney Metropolitan Strategy. It’s allowed
us to plan for more development and reflect the community’s aspirations in preserving the vibrant village character of Ku-ring-gai.
We are committed to sustainability and have introduced water and energy saving initiatives in our construction projects.
In Ku-ring-gai, cycling is a wonderful way for the community to interact with our urban and natural environment in a sustainable way. We
developed a Bicycle Plan and map to encourage cycling and are introducing new cycleways in the near future.
Managing our bushland and urban interface is an important part of what we do, particularly considering the high bushfire risk in the area.
We have implemented a number of initiatives to educate the community on fire dangers, preparing their homes and what to do in case
of an emergency, as well as direct action to reduce fire risk through hazard reduction burns and fire trail works.
2 0 1 3 /14
A new LEP and DCP prepared
Created a development application mediation
process that has reduced legal costs by over
$360,000
Created a 26-lot sub-division through a
partnership with the State Government
utilising jointly owned and under-used land in
Turramurra
Xxxxx.
Xxxxx
Began
a master planning process for the
Council-owned Gordon golf course
Increased our solar capacity to 52kw
W ea nnd per oet edc t otu rom a npm ald a
n
e and
n at u r a l e n v i r o n m e n t
to
absorb
the impending
p o p u l at i o n i n c r e a s e
Saved 11,500 kL of drinking water through
leachate reuse and stormwater harvesting
Reduced drinking water consumption in
Council buildings by 2%
Constructed two artificial wetlands, with one
attracting wildlife not seen for decades
Created a 99 hectare bio-banking site for
biodiversity conservation
Spent nearly $250,000 upgrading 42kms of
fire trails
St Ives Chase, by DSpira 2013 Capture Ku-ring-gai Photo Competition
Ku-ring-gai Council
59
Managing
d e v e lo p m e n t n o w
and in the future
With our population expected to increase by 17% in around 20
years, the Council is focussing on the sustainable management
of development. We want to retain the unmistakeable character of
Ku-ring-gai, while accommodating an increase in population from
114,000 to 134,000 by 2036.
During 2013-14, the Council prepared a new Local Environmental
Plan (LEP) and Development Control Plan (DCP).
New LEP and DCP
Mediation the key to DAs
Our management of development applications noticeably
improved during 2013-14. Ku-ring-gai’s philosophy is now one of
mediation and assistance to applicants before a DA is submitted
and decided. Although this has increased the time taken in
discussing applications with clients, two significant outcomes
have been achieved. One is a $360,000 reduction in legal costs
associated with court appeals; the other is a substantial reduction
in the number of development applications proceeding to
appeal. In 2013-14, 47 complex or deemed refusal development
applications were successfully mediated. In 2013-2014 the
number of DAs proceeding to court was 14. This compares with
23 in 2012-2013.
New sub-division at Turramurra
Now awaiting gazettal by the NSW Government, Ku-ring-gai’s
Draft Ku-ring-gai Local Environmental Plan 2013 will replace the
existing LEP that has been the subject of over 200 changes since
1971.
The new LEP will provide the framework by which local land use
planning can be undertaken in a more integrated and strategic
manner. It addresses planning issues such as sustainability,
physical and social Infrastructure, natural and built environment,
heritage, housing and employment. The new LEP provides
greater environmental protection through the introduction of new
environmental zones, as well as map overlays linked to local
biodiversity areas and riparian lands. Another significant inclusion
is heritage conservation areas and additional heritage items.
The DCP sets out detailed guidelines for the location and
design of future development on all land covered by the Draft
Ku-ring-gai Local Environmental Plan 2013. The DCP will help
ensure new development is consistent with the local character;
that development retains valuable elements of the site and its
surroundings; the amenity of neighbouring properties is not
compromised by development and any development is of a high
design standard.
Right: New sub-division site at Turramurra
Work is nearing completion on a 26 lot residential land
subdivision in South Turramurra - a rare opportunity to purchase
new residential land in Ku-ring-gai and an example of another
successful partnership between the Council and the state
government.
The project includes the creation of 26 residential lots ranging
from 844 square metres up to 1,563 square metres; the
construction of a new link road between Chisholm Street and
Barwon Avenue, South Turramurra and significant upgrade
works along the creek corridor, including construction of an
artificial wetland. The site, owned jointly by Council and the NSW
Department of Planning, was previously part of the planned B2
road corridor to link the F3 and M2 motorways. This option was
abandoned by the then state government in 1996.
Once construction of the road is complete, lots in the sub-division
will be offered for sale by the end of 2014.
Master planning for Gordon Golf Course
Ku-ring-gai Council currently operates and maintains two public
golf courses, with a further four private golf courses servicing the
Ku-ring-gai golfing community.
A substantial investment is currently being made to improve the
facilities and amenities at North Turramurra Golf Club.
Ku-ring-gai Council resolved to begin a masterplan for a regional
park at the Gordon Golf Course site. This project will involve
extensive community consultation and communication with all
residents and stakeholders.
A s u s ta i n a b l e wat e r
s u pp ly a n d p r o t e c t i o n
f o r wat e r way s
We are leaders in implementing innovative water projects to reduce
our reliance on Sydney’s drinking water supply. These projects are
sustainable, reduce the impact of stormwater runoff on our bushland,
save ratepayers’ money and can help maintain our assets in the
future. Since 2007 we have installed15 stormwater harvesting
systems, one rooftop filter garden, two leachate systems, two sewer
mining systems, 20 biofilter gardens, 70 Gross Pollutant Traps
(GPTs) and 141 pit litter baskets.
Wat e r
projects
Major water management
projects completed to date
In 2013/14 we installed a 250kL tank at Council’s South Turramurra
residential sub-division development, which will be used to augment
existing underground tanks at the nearby Auluba Ovals.
Through a $50,000 grant from the Greater Sydney Local Land
Service, additional Council funding and in-kind contributions of
$221,800, weed removal, creek stabilisation works and installing
sediment and filter basins is in progress in the Avondale Creek
Catchment. Works in Sheldon Forest, Rofe Park and Comenarra
Creek Reserve are reducing the effect of nutrients and litter washing
into the creek and protecting the critically endangered Blue Gum
High Forest and endangered Sydney Turpentine Ironbark forest in
this area.
Two artificial wetlands - at North Turramurra Recreation Area and
the South Turramurra residential sub-division development - were
constructed during 2013-2014. These wetlands will act as natural
absorption for sediment and run-off, as well as encouraging native
birds and animals back into these suburbs. In the case of the former,
a survey conducted early in 2014 revealed the presence of over 30
species of native birds and animals, some of which have not been
seen in North Turramurra for decades.
Through Council’s bush regeneration works program, 28 hectares
within our riparian zones received weed removal and bank
stabilisation works. Through the Council’s staff sustainability network,
the Ku-ring-gai Greenbacks, staff also participated in a tree planting
day at Ku-ring-gai Creek as part of a creek remediation program.
LEGEND
Filter Garden
Water Harvesting Reuse System
Water Leachate System
Sewer Mining
Small Stormwater Filter Device
Riparian Instream/end of Pipe Device
26 Small Pit Filter Baskets
Water saving projects in Ku-ring-gai since 2007
Ku-ring-gai Council
61
E n e r gy s av i n g i d e a s
in action
Council continues to implement energy-saving initiatives in the
key areas of street lighting, buildings and outdoor lighting.
In 2013-14, Council upgraded 12 of its hot water systems to
solar hot water and heat pump systems, as part of the Local
Government Energy Efficiency Program (LGEEP).
A Greenhouse Gas Inventory and Target Report was prepared
in 2013-14, and a utility costs and net present value (NPV)
conducted, which informed the development of a Greenhouse
Gas (GHG) Action Plan for achieving Council’s current GHG
reduction target of 20% by 2020 based on 2000 levels. This
Action Plan will guide Councils energy management program
until 2020. Performance against this target will be measured
through Council’s sustainability data management and reporting
system. Tracking Council’s greenhouse gas emissions is
important to ensure we are meeting our carbon reduction targets
and playing our part in reducing global emissions.
Recognising the potential for energy efficient lighting and LED
technology to cut electricity consumption and costs, an open
space lighting audit was completed last year, which outlines
a number of recommendations for Council to consider and
further evaluate – including installation of timers, active reactor
controllers and LED luminaire/lamps.
During 2013-14 we installed a solar PV system at the Bancroft
Art Centre which has helped to lower electricity at the Centre by
18% (11 MWh), or equivalent savings of $2,090 per annum. The
Ku-ring-gai Art Centre also had its lighting upgraded to energy
efficient LED lighting which is expected to reduce electricity
consumption by a further 20% (10MWh) with estimated savings
of $1,900 per annum. Council’s total solar capacity is now 52kW.
Our latest energy snapshot shows that since 2010 we have
reduced electricity consumption within our asset portfolio by 6%.
We have reduced greenhouse gas emissions from our fleet by
29% since 2000. We have 8 Prius vehicles and 80 diesel vehicles
out of total 110 in our fleet. In 2013-14 we introduced a staff bus
from the Central Coast, which has reduced private car use by
staff, with a second bus to be introduced in 2014-15.
P r e pa r i n g o u r
community for
b u s h f i r es
conjunction with the NSW Rural Fire Service, Fire and Rescue
NSW and Hornsby Shire Council and the first of its kind in NSW,
street meetings are being held in high priority locations. During
2013-14 three street meetings were held in North Wahroonga, St
Ives and Gordon, attended by 150 residents.
Ku-ring-gai Council is responsible for the management of
1,100 hectares of bushland that largely intersects with densely
populated residential areas. Much of the bushland connects
larger natural areas to the north, south-west and east, making
it one of the most bushfire-prone areas in Greater Sydney and
Australia-wide.
A custom built bushfire education trailer is used at street
meetings and other community events to provide an
interactive experience in bush fire preparedness, plus bushfire
preparedness kits in CD format distributed to residents.
The management of bushfire is driven by the core objectives
to protect life and property, ensure the long-term conservation
of natural values and responsibly care for our community.
Ku-ring-gai Council implements a comprehensive bushfire risk
management strategy, which includes the creation of Asset
Protection Zones (APZs) as well as improving building resilience,
property maintenance and evacuation risk measures. Through
Council’s Community Bushfire Education Strategy, developed in
Ku-ring-gai Council staff manage a 44km network of fire trails and
24.5km of asset protection zones.In 2013-14 Council undertook
fire trail upgrade works on the Gwydir Samuel King Oval Trail,
Bedford Waipori Trail and Lister Daly Trail, worth $248.000.
Seven hazard reduction burns were undertaken totalling 33.94
hectares and three ecological burns. These burns were located
in reserves containing Sydney Turpentine Ironbark Forest and
Duffy’s Forest which are identified as Endangered Ecological
Communities.
Ku-ring-gai Council
63
Managing our
Bushland
We have around 1,100 hectares of bushland and in 2013/14
conducted bush regeneration works in around half.
Council has developed a bushland condition rating tool to
measure the ongoing condition of the areas actively managed
in our bushland reserves. This includes a recovery, weed and
threats rating. Site management plans are currently being
developed for the 34 bushland reserves that are actively
managed by Council, which will help provide information for the
bushland condition rating.
bush
r e g e n e r at i o n
projects
Through the NSW Government’s Linking Landscapes program,
a biobanking site was created at Rofe Park, Sheldon Forest and
Comenarra Creek Reserve. Annual funding of over $1.6 million
dollars is being received for the managing these reserves for
biodiversity conservation.
Our bushland regeneration program is supported by our 812
passionate Bushcare, Streetcare and Parkcare volunteers
at 179 sites. The map shows areas of bushland that are
regenerated by both our Bushcare volunteers and Council.
Regenerated by Council
Regenerated by Bushcare volunteers
Bushland regenerated by Council and Bushcare volunteers
Cycling and
s u s ta i n a b l e
transport
Through the Ku-ring-gai Bicycle Plan,
we completed line markings, sign
posting and resurfacing for over 3.6km
of new cycle ways at Lindfield through to
Roseville. Works are currently underway
to extend the cycle way by an additional
5.5 kms through Killara and Gordon.
During 2014/15 the cycle way will be
further extended to Turramurra.
Ku-ring-gai Council
65
Environment
I n i t i at i v es
Ku-ring-gai Council
67
E n v i r o n m e n t I n i t i at i v es
Over
140,0 00
h av e v i s i t e d
our
e n v i r o n m e n ta l
Youtube
channel
68
Mayor Jennifer Anderson launched Council’s Compost Revolution program for Ku-ring-gai residents at Lindfield East Public School, which
has shown great leadership by teaching its students about reducing food waste, composting, worm-farming and growing fruit and veg.
Ku-ring-gai has a vast, beautiful and unique natural environment with
over 30% of area covered in bushland. Overall, the area supports 690
fauna species and more than 800 plant species including endangered
ecological communities.
This diverse natural environment is treasured by our active and passionate community and dedicated
staff. Nearly 90% of residents supported the continuation of our Environmental Levy, which is pioneering
initiatives and community partnerships to protect and preserve our environment for future generations.
2 0 1 3 /14
Won the Division C and Overall Category
Climate Action Award at the Local Government
NSW Excellence in the Environment Awards Climate Wise Communities program
Internal training and promotion of a culture of
sustainability to staff
Secured $2,068,000 in environmental grants
Over 3300 residents participated in our
environmental programs
Over 90 local businesses are receiving tailored
sustainability advice
3
50 stingless native bee hives distributed and
70 pool-to-pond conversions
Over 140,000 visits to our environmental
YouTube channel
Diverted 60% of domestic waste from landfill
through recycling, compared with the NSW
average of 47%
Trialled a new program for commercial
businesses to convert food waste into green
energy products
Ku-ring-gai Council
69
C r e at i n g a c u lt u r e o f s u s ta i n a b i l i t y
Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do and we have created an organisational culture where staff
actively reduce their environmental impacts.
Environmentally Sensitive Lands Training
The Ku-ring-gai Green Backs
Council delivers an Environmentally Sensitive Lands staff
training program across topics such as Ku-ring-gai ecologically
sensitive lands overview; ecologically sensitive lands mapping;
environmental risk management; weed identification; threatened
species & vegetation community identification; riparian
environment, water sensitive urban design and bushfire
management for planners and operational staff. To date, this
training has been delivered to 629 participants.
The Ku-ring-gai Green Backs are Ku-ring-gai Council’s staff
sustainability network, which promotes and facilitates sustainable
actions and work practices amongst staff. Their initiatives during
2013-14 included:
In addition to ensuring staff meet their legislative requirements,
the training has resulted in on-ground improvements in
environmental management, for example rain gardens and
stormwater harvesting being incorporated into capital works
projects and the development of an ESL checklist for operational
staff working close to sensitive areas.
•Biodiversity walk
•A series of lunchtime workshops educating staff on
environmental issues including:
•Your energy future
•Biodiversity talk
Policy development
•Christmas decorations using recycled materials
Council has recently introduced a Sustainable Event
Management Policy, to provide a framework for the integration
of sustainability principles and practices into the planning,
management, delivery and evaluation of events held in the
Ku-ring-gai Local Government Area (LGA). Supporting this
Policy is a Sustainable Event Management Plan (for large scale
community events) and a Sustainable Event Management
Checklist (for internal Council events).
•Staff tree planting day at Ku-ring-gai Creek
•Worm farms in staff areas to divert food waste from landfill
•Soft plastic recycling collections in staff areas
•The purchasing of organic milk, with the added bonus of
reduced plastic waste now that containers are 2 litres and
not 1 litre
•A sustainable celebrations display to encourage staff and the
community to reduce their impact over the festive season
•Boomerang Bags – reusable shopping bags continue to
be placed near all staff exits along with reminders to use the
reusable bags instead of plastic bags and to return the bags
when finished.
In consultation with every team across Council, the 2014-2017
Corporate Sustainability Action Plan was reviewed this year, with
implementation of the Plan to commence in July 2014.
Through the CRC for Water Sensitive Cities policy- partnership
program, CRC researchers have been collaborating with Council
to transition its Integrated Water Cycle Management Policy and
Strategy into a Water Sensitive Cities Policy and Strategy. A
policy development workshop was held in May with researchers
from the CRC, representatives from other Sydney councils and
the Greater Sydney Local Land Services and a number of Kurin-gai Council staff. Based on the outcomes of this workshop,
a draft Water Sensitive Cities Policy has been developed, with
development of the Strategy to follow. Actions from the existing
Integrated Water Cycle Management Strategy continue to be
rolled out.
O u r c l i m at e i s
changing and we
are adapting
Ku-ring-gai is particularly vulnerable to severe weather
events such as storms, heat events and bushfires. With
over 28km2 of bushland and an estimated 300,000 street
trees, these events can be devastating to the community
and costly for Council.
The severity and frequency of storms, heat events bushfires is
increasing as our climate changes so we are implementing our
award-winning Climate Change Adaptation Strategy to increase
the resilience of Council and the community.
Climate Wise Communities
Our Climate Wise Communities program won the Division
C and Overall Category Climate Action Award at the Local
Government NSW Excellence in the Environment Awards in
December 2013.
This program delivered 7 community resilience workshops
in 2013/14, with 141 participants in total. These workshops
have targeted those community sectors deemed to be most
vulnerable to extreme weather events, including Culturally and
Linguistically Diverse (CALD) communities, seniors, aged care
providers, residents in high bushfire hazard zones, in-home
care providers for seniors living alone and children’s’ services
providers. In addition, a workshop was conducted for the North
Turramurra Action Group (NTAG), in partnership with the RFS,
Police, NPWS and local RFS brigade volunteers, to examine
emergency evacuation capacity in North Turramurra.
During the workshops participants are actively engaged in a
series of activities to assess their vulnerability, identify their
strengths and determine priorities actions to strengthen their
resilience to extreme weather events. Participants are guided
through a series of activities including: mapping local hazards,
identifying property vulnerabilities, working through evacuation
scenarios, testing plans with ‘what if’ contingency planning
cards and sharing local knowledge and experiences.
Above: Local Government NSW Excellence in the Environment Awards in December 2013 Below: Local residents participating in a Climate Wise Communities workshop
Workshop resources including scenario cards, vulnerability
assessments and action cards act as triggers to encourage
participants to establish clear intentions of follow up actions to
improve their resilience at a personal, property and community
level.
Ku-ring-gai Council
71
Enhanced decisionmaking and
performance
Sustainability data management and reporting
system
Council utilises the Envizi sustainability data management and
reporting system to improve the type of information that staff can
use to manage energy and water consumption, and to assist staff
to measure the effectiveness of other sustainability programs
and initiatives. The system i) automates data entry, ii) generates
organisational level reports, iii) generate site level reports, iv)
integrate utility meters and private sub-meters, v) reports on
carbon, energy, water and waste metrics, vi) defines and tracks
KPIs / targets, and vii) flags anomalies in consumption trends.
Greenhouse Gas Action Plan.
C o m m u n i t y a n d b u s i n es s pa r t n e r s h i p s
Through Council’s ‘Loving Living Ku-ring-gai’ program we deliver a range of environmental initiatives and programs to
engage the community and local business on a range of sustainability issues.
Energy Smart
In 2013 Ku-ring-gai Council launched the Energy Smart pilot
program, testing the use of smart energy devices to enable
residents to track their electricity use via their smart phone,
tablet or PC. Our desire was to move beyond purely informationbased energy efficiency campaigns and activate the education
we provide with information relevant to the participants. Twenty
households were involved in the trial and participants were
supported with energy efficiency workshops, educational emails
and support via Facebook and over the phone. During the
three-month project period participants collectively reduced their
electricity consumption by 27% compared to the same period in
the previous year.
Based on the success of the 2013 pilot program, we have
recently launched the Energy Smart Saver program, this time with
the aim of engaging 200 houses over a one-year period through
an innovative online community network, where members engage
with one another as they invest in energy efficiency, renewable
energy and smart energy devices and take control of their energy
use, and reduce their bills and household greenhouse gas
emissions.
Love Food Hate Waste
In 2013/14 Council secured a NSW EPA grant to deliver a
community food waste avoidance program. The behavioural
change program aimed to increase residents’ awareness of
the environmental impact of food waste and to reduce the
amount of edible food going to landfill. A total of 120 Ku-ring-gai
residents participated in 4 practical and engaging workshops
and an estimated 1200 people engaged with the program via
social media channels or at cooking demonstrations held at two
community festivals.
Compost Revolution
In 2014, in an effort to further address food waste and reduce
waste to landfill, Council introduced the Compost Revolution
website for residents. The Compost Revolution is a fun and
convenient online platform where residents can learn how to
compost or worm-farm with some quick tutorials. By successfully
completing the online tutorial, residents qualify for a 25%
discount on a worm farm (with worms) or compost bin which
will be delivered to their home for free. In just three months we
have quadrupled the number of worm farms and compost bins
distributed by Council to the community, compared to 2012/2013,
with 26 compost bins and 14 worm farms ordered and delivered.
Water Smart
Ku-ring-gai Council has delivered a number of projects to
manage urban stormwater run-off in our local area. However, a
series of catchment studies has identified that the most effective
way to protect our local waterways is to partner with the local
community to deliver stormwater treatment measures on both
Council and private land. Following the success of last year’s
pilot, the Water Smart program has expanded to offer rebates
to residents across the entire LGA, to assist them to install a
rainwater tank or raingarden on their property, to improve the
health of our local creeks and to help the community save water
and money. Three raingardens have been installed on residential
properties and 21 rebates have been awarded for the installation
of rainwater tanks, or connections from tanks to internal domestic
water systems (laundries and toilets), with a combined total
capacity of 85,000 litres. A total of 111 residents participated in
7 workshops designed to increase their skills and knowledge to
confidently make installations.
Smart Units
Council’s Sustainable Apartments Program, Smart Units, has
engaged with nine owners’ corporations of residential strata
plans. These nine corporations collectively represent 624
residential units. Smart Units has provided eight common area
energy audits and reports and nine water/waste audits and
reports. As a result of the energy audits, a potential collective
annual saving of 1,207,491 kilowatt-hours of electricity or a
total of $229,826 within the common areas has been identified,
with numerous energy-saving measures recommended for the
buildings participating. This represents a potential total collective
carbon footprint reduction of 1,204 tonnes of greenhouse gas
emissions. As part of the program, 103 residents have attended
2 workshops.
Smart Homes
Council’s Smart Homes program is intended to engage the
Ku-ring-gai community on the benefits of including sustainable
design features in their retrofit, renovation or new-home build.
We are trying to make residents aware that sustainable features
make your home more comfortable to live in and cost effective to
run, in addition to making it more environmentally friendly and in
harmony with the natural surroundings of Ku-ring-gai. To initiate
engagement on this topic we held a very popular workshop
on ‘Building sustainable homes’ for residents. An informative
web page has been created, while a comprehensive guide on
the opportunities to make your home build or renovation more
sustainable is being developed in consultation with Council’s
Development and Regulation Department.
Ku-ring-gai Council
73
WildThings
Ku-ring-gai Council has pioneered an innovative program,
WildThings, which has connected over 450 people with
urban wildlife and improved our local environment.
Native beehives
Bees are essential members of our ecological communities
as they pollinate our food crops. However, worldwide bee
communities are under threat and bee numbers are decreasing.
Tetragonula Carbonaria is a stingless bee that is native to
Sydney. We have distributed over 350 stingless native beehives
to Ku-ring-gai residents.
In May 2014 we launched Beecam, a project that is completely
unique in Australia. It involves placing cameras at the entrance
of native bee hives and monitoring activity of the native bees in
real time. Beecam is accessible to the public via the WildThings
website at www.wildthings.org.au.
In 2013 WildThings commissioned 60 solitary bee hives, to
distribute to Ku-ring-gai residents. The hives provide habitat
for a large number of the over 160 solitary bee species that
live in Sydney, a relatively unknown group of insects that are
important pollinators and an essential component of Ku-ring-gai’s
biodiversity.
Pool to Pond
After their children grow up and leave home, many Ku-ring-gai
residents have a backyard pool they maintain but no longer use.
We have helped over 70 local residents convert their unwanted
pools into easy-to-maintain ponds, which are an eco-friendly,
cost-effective alternative that promotes biodiversity.
Switching off the pool pump and filter saves residents up to
$1000 a year on their electricity bill, reduces toxic chemical
use and their new pond provides a source of water for garden
irrigation. We supply native fish, aquatic plants and technical
advice for the conversion.
Community gardens
Council supports two community gardens, at Turramurra
and West Pymble, with over 70 members. In the past year
the Turramurra community garden members have terraced
their site to assist with drainage and have built extensive and
impressive stone walls to delineate the garden, and built a
greenhouse (funded through the Environmental Levy small
grants scheme) to grow seedlings for their own use and for
sale to the community. They collect vegetative waste from
local shops, including coffee grounds and fruit vegetables,
for garden compost. The West Pymble community garden is
currently undergoing a refurbishment to align it more closely
with the successful Turramurra model. This will entail the
development of a number of individual plots which at the
moment are communal.
wildthings program
P o o ls t o
ponds
converted
N at i v e
S t i n g l es s
B e e h i v es
distributed
LEGEND
Pool to Pond conversion
Native beehive locations
Ku-ring-gai Wild Things program: Native Stingless Beehive (Tetragonula carbonaria) and Pools to Ponds locations
8
1
2
v o lu n t e e r s
wo r k i n g
to improve
o u r lo c a l
bushland
Artificial wetland at North Turramurra
The 500sqm wetland was created on the site of the existing water course and is located north
of the former North Turramurra landfill site next to the National Park, which has been reclaimed,
capped and stabilised.
The wetland includes the third green and fourth tee which golfers access by crossing the wetland
via timber bridges. It has been extensively landscaped and planted with large numbers of aquatic
and land-based native plants. Controlled flows release water from the wetland into the existing
creek and then on to Cowan Creek.
Once the course is opened to the public at the end of this year the wetland will be accessible via a
fire trail at the end of Curagul Road.
Since its completion in May 2014, the wetland is rapidly becoming home to increasing numbers of
wildlife. Recent surveys have noted 31 species of birds, including ducks, eagles, powerful owls,
parrots, finches and blue fairy wrens.
Unusual native animals including swamp wallabies, echidnas, lace monitors, pythons and green
tree snakes have been observed, as well as more common ones such as possums, micro bats and
frogs.
Ku-ring-gai Council
77
Food waste to green energy products
A new project is helping local businesses convert food waste into
garden fertiliser and methane for power generation.
Thirty-five Ku-ring-gai businesses are currently enrolled in the
trial, which began in April 2014 and is funded by a grant from
the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA). Businesses range
from delicatessens and bakeries through to fruit shops, cafes and
restaurants. The trial is testing the feasibility of using specially
marked 120 litres bin delivered free of charge to participating
businesses. Unwanted food is placed in the bin which is then
collected twice weekly.
The collected waste is sent to the EarthPower alternative waste
treatment facility at Camellia, where it is turned into garden
fertiliser and ‘green energy’, using methane to produce electricity.
The trial will continue until August 2014, resulting in a financial
feasibility study to assess whether the project can become a
permanent service to local businesses.
Businesses participating in the trial reported they had cut general
food waste by up to 40% and as a result, nearly half of them
have been able to reduce the frequency of commercial waste
collections.
Small grants for community environment projects
Our environmental levy funds a small grants scheme, which
provides money to community groups or individuals to complete
projects that benefit our natural environment. During 2013-14 we
gave out 16 grants valued at over $50,278 for works that included
weed removal at a number of environmentally sensitive sites,
wildlife education and a weed awareness display/campaign.
Since the scheme’s inception in 2006, we have funded 158
environment projects worth $557,000.
Julie Thiele and Callum Parsonage from Turramurra Scout Group receiving their small grants scheme cheque with Mayor Jennifer Anderson
Eco-events
Running environmental events is a great way to connect with the
community and to facilitate behavioural change in our community.
In addition to the events delivered through our ‘Smart’ programs,
in 2013/14 we ran a series an environmental event series which
attracted over 1,000 residents. This included:
•A candle-lit sustainable feast at a local Better Business
Partnership restaurant, for Earth Hour, with 65 people attending in
two sittings
•National Tree Planting Day at Jubes Mountain Bike Park,
attracting over 100 residents who planted 1,500 tube stock
•Spring veggie garden and wildlife-friendly garden workshop
workshops
•Natural green cleaning workshop and natural first aid workshops
•Tick protection talk
•Night spotlight walk
•Native fauna talks, including on the bandicoot, native stingless
bee and grey-headed flying-fox
•Botanical digital photography workshop
•No Impact Man movie screening
•Gondwana rainforest talk
Personalised sustainability advice
Through our Greenstyle Program, we visit residents at their
home to provide free, personalised home sustainability and
garden advice. After the visit, residents are given a range of
recommendations to save energy and water and reduce waste
in their homes, as well as improve biodiversity in their backyard.
These recommendations can range from behavioural changes
to purchasing environmental products such as rainwater tanks.
We encourage residents to use our Climate Clever Shop, a
website platform with reliable information on a range of quality
discounted solar hot water, rainwater tank, heat pumps and solar
PV products, all available from local suppliers.
Our residents caring for the environment
We have one of the largest Bushcare and Streetcare programs in
NSW with 812 volunteers working to improve our local bushland,
parks and streets at 179 sites across the Ku-ring-gai LGA. See
the map for the locations on page 64.
Community outreach
Utilising Council’s Loving Living Ku-ring-gai (LLK) sustainability
brand, we are making an effort to reach a broader audience
in Ku-ring-gai. The brand has had excellent traction with the
community and has been effective in creating recognition for
Council’s environmental and sustainability programs, particularly
those funded by Council’s Environmental Levy. Under the LLK
brand, the we have created a monthly sustainability e-news (1662
subscribers), printed What’s On calendar of environmental and
sustainability of events which is distributed three times a year to
999 residents, a LLK Facebook page which has 1968 followers
and a LLK Twitter which has 92 followers. Environmental and
sustainability videos from the section are shared on Envirotube
which has now had more than 140,000 unique visits, equating
to 1,000 unique visits per month. As part of efforts to engage
a wider, more mainstream audience, the environment and
sustainability team now hosts two bus tours a year for new
residents, to showcase our environmental sites and programs.
Better Business Partnership
In 2013/14 the Better Business Partnership (BBP) program was
successful in obtaining a grant of $246,000 under the Waste Less
Recycle More program, which will shift the focus of the program
to business waste management. There are still over 90 active
Ku-ring-gai businesses in the program that continue to receive
tailored advice to improve their sustainability performance.
Recently the BBP program introduced the Energy, Water
and Waste Saver Service, which provides more specialised
assistance to businesses, by benchmarking their energy, water
and waste performance and identifying opportunities for efficiency
improvements. Recruitment of new businesses to the program
is also continuing, via face-to-face visits and a workshop series,
which attempts to grow the skill base of the businesses in the four
Council partner areas.
Below Left to right: Earth Hour candle-lit dinner and some of the local business owners participating in the Better Business Partnership
Ku-ring-gai Council
79
Senior event at Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden
H e a lt h a n d
community
s e r v i c es
Ku-ring-gai Council
81
H e a lt h a n d c o m m u n i t y s e r v i c es
over
$ 1 3 1, 8 3 4
in
grants
given to
help fund
55
community
group
projects
Ku-ring-gai Council plays a vital role in supporting all members of our community
by offering a wide selection of services for all ages - from young children, teens
and families to older residents.
We also provide support to residents who require specialised services such as new migrants, people with disabilities
and parents with teenagers. The demographics of our community are changing, with nearly 25% from non-English
speaking backgrounds and a higher than average number of residents aged over 60 and under 19 years.
(Source: NSW Office of Local Government comparative data 2012-13)
Reopened the upgraded Gordon youth centre as the
AWOL Youth Hub
Increased the range of forums for parents of teens
Offered various activities and workshops for 12-18 year
old residents
H
osted the Fitz Band Competition for young residents for
a 22nd consecutive year
H
osted the Ku-ring-gai’s Got Talent contest in
conjunction with local Rotary clubs
Widened our fitness and recreation programs for seniors
H
ighlighted the needs of the disabled in our community
J ointly hosted a month-long Seniors Festival with other
community groups and organisations
Immunised 389 children through our free monthly
immunisation service
P
rovided high quality care for over 244 children with our
Family Day Care service
Increased the range of activities and services to migrants
G
ave over $131,834 in grants to help fund 55 community
group projects
AWOL Youth Hub next to Ku-ring-gai Library at Gordon
Ku-ring-gai Council
83
Y o u t h s e r v i c es
Young people aged under 19 years make up 27.9% of
Ku-ring-gai’s total population compared with the NSW
average of 24%.
We provide a variety of services for this dynamic age group and
continue to find new ways to connect, engage and listen to our
younger residents.
Youth centres
Council operates three successful youth centres in Gordon, St
Ives and Turramurra where local teenagers are always welcome
to drop in for a chat, study or just hang out. We also operate one
of the most comprehensive youth programs in Sydney out of
these centres.
AWOL Youth Hub at Gordon
Formerly the Gordon youth centre, the AWOL Youth Hub was
reopened in June 2014 after a six-month renovation and refit.
The refurbished youth centre has benefited not only from a name
change but an upgrade valued at $30,000. This includes new
furnishings, IT equipment and other renovations. Many of the
furnishings have been made and supplied by the volunteers of
the Community Shed at St Ives Showground. AWOL Youth Hub
is located next to the Gordon Library at 799 Pacific Highway and
offers free computer access and wi-fi, café facilities and creative
spaces where young people can socialise or study.
The centre is open Mondays to Fridays between 3:30pm and
6:30pm, staffed by professional youth workers.
Youth workshops
A series of classes was offered during 2013-14 to help increase
self-esteem in young people. Examples of popular classes we ran
include:
-Slam Skate & Scooter Comp
-Eclectic Art Class
-Recording and Production Workshop
-Shorefest Shootout Competition
-Shorefest 2014
-Discobility
-David Taylor Music Gig
-Harjot RnB Gig
Ku-ring-gai’s Got Talent
Ku-ring-gai’s Got Talent (KGT) was a talent contest that aimed to
showcase and uncover the amazing performance skills that exist
amongst young people in the local community. The contest was
coordinated by Ku-ring-gai Council in partnership with Rotary
Club of Turramurra, Rotary Club of St Ives and the Youth &
Enterprise Legal Centre.
Contestants were given the opportunity to perform live in front of
entertainment industry professionals and judges who provided
tips and valuable industry advice. Judges included Ian ‘Dicko’
Dickson from 2UE and Lynda Wehipeihana from LMF Music,
Christina Constani, Choregrapher, creator and owner of Dance
to the Limit, David Hatzimarkos, talent scout at AIM Australian
Institute of Music and Matt Barlett, Professional Musician and
Guitar Mentor.
KGT attracted a wide selection of performers including singers,
dancers, magicians and musicians. In total there were 35 acts,
90 performers and over 300 audience members involved in the 3
Heats and Grand Finale.
Ku-ring-gai Youth Forum
Hornsby Ku-ring-gai Youth Network (along with other partners
and financial sponsors) organised the Youth Forum. The
objectives of the forum were;
•To bring young people together to discuss issues of mental
health, resilience and leadership in a safe environment.
•To understand the importance of looking after your own mental
health and explore ways in which this can be achieved.
•To normalise the issue of mental illness amongst young people
and the wider community.
•To gain insight into service provision gaps in the school system
and the wider community.
•To receive feedback on how schools and communities can
better work to engage young people on the issue of mental
health.
•To educate teachers, carers and parents about the key drivers of
mental health issues amongst young people and how to assist.
Celebrated its 22nd year anniversary last year and offers local
up-and-coming bands the chance to have their music heard and
played on stage to big crowds.
A total of 350 students, 27 schools and 41 teachers attended the
forum held at Knox Grammar School in Wahroonga. A highlight
of the day was the ‘Take It Back’ session, in which students
gathered in their school groups to discuss how they can introduce
positive mental health outcomes into their school.
Fitz recording studio
Parent Forums
Annual Fitz band competition
We allow young music artists to record their songs/tracks at our
state-of-the-art production studio.
School holiday program
Successful program that hosts a variety of fun activities and
excursions including ice skating, skateboarding and Luna Park.
Youth Support Programs
Provide a safe space at our three youth centres for young adults
to approach us with issues, where we can then advocate on their
behalf or refer them to appropriate services.
We provide a very successful series of Parent Forums for parents
connecting them to issues facing teenage children. Last year we
held five parent forums to provide guidance, create a dialogue,
and provide a powerful support network for parents who are
experiencing problems.
Topics for forums held during 2013-14 were Help! I’m a parent of
a teenager; Problematic Internet Use; Binge Drinking and Young
People; Drugs and Alcohol; Youth Suicide and Youth Depression.
35
K u - r i n g - g a i ’ s G o t Ta l e n t
acts,
performers
90
300
& over
audience members
Ku-ring-gai’s Got Talent finalists
Ku-ring-gai Council
85
C h i l d r e n ’ s s e r v i c es
We’re dedicated to keeping the younger members of our
population happy. We provide an extensive variety of
community services supportive of young families and
facilities that are children and infant friendly.
Families are flocking to Ku-ring-gai as a fantastic place to
raise children, thanks to our greenbelt suburbs that embrace
community spirit. This means that 28% of our population is
currently 19 years or under. As a result we offer a wide selection
of child care and school holiday services and health services.
Our parks and playgrounds encourage children to run, play,
climb and explore while an array of fun and educational activities
are on offer to keep young minds and bodies active.
School holiday activities
Many working families in Ku-ring-gai rely on safe, affordable and
quality care for their children during school holiday periods. In
recognition of this need Ku-ring-gai Council offers an extensive
range of school holiday activities. From toddlers to young teens
we have fun and educational activities to suit every interest
ranging from art, sport, nature and more.
Vacation Care
A full-day care service offers a program full of fun arts, sports,
excursions and educational experiences. Spaces for this popular
program are usually filled within the first few days after bookings
open.
Active Kids
A popular full-day sports program encourages primary schoolers
to get active, have fun and meet new friends, while developing
important skills in team work and leadership. There was a 40%
increase in the participation rate in this program during 2013-14
compared with the previous year.
Art classes
Ku-ring-gai Art Centre offers a stimulating program for young
artists, encouraging children to tap into their imagination to
create their own unique works of art. Program includes pottery,
beaded jewellery, crafty gift cards, mask making and more.
Library
Offers a fantastic school program across our four library
branches full of fun and educational activities.
Bushkids
School holiday environmental activities for kids and toddlers who
love nature, all held at Ku-ring-gai’s Wildflower Garden.
Family Day Care
Operating for over 30 years, Ku-ring-gai Council’s Family Day
Care service is responsible for providing high quality child care in
a home environment.
There are over 244 children currently being provided with care,
with an average age of 12-18 months.
Our Family Day Care service provides support to registered
educators, organising regular play sessions, providing an
immunisation service, giving support to parents, and even
driving a bus. The staff at our Family Day Care service also all
hold a bus licence as they transport educators and children to
playgroup sessions in St Ives.
Immunisation
We have been providing a free immunisation service to our local
community for over 50 years. We employ trained immunisation
staff to administer vaccines on the third Wednesday of every
month, protecting children from diseases such as tetanus,
whooping cough and measles. Last year alone we immunised a
total of 389 children.
S e n i o r s ’ s e r v i c es
With 23.1% of our population aged 60 years plus, compared
with the NSW average of 18%, our seniors make up a very
important part of our community. As a result we have plenty
of activities, events and services to keep older residents
active and fulfilled.
We have finalised an Ageing Strategy to help us plan for
the needs, interests and aspirations of older people living in
Ku-ring-gai. This strategy is based on findings from feedback
we received from the wider community, seniors and service
providers, which we gathered through consultation workshops
and surveys. The strategy will be considered by the Council in
August 2014.
Seniors in Action
This offers a wide variety of activities for Ku-ring-gai residents
over 55 years of age including educational experiences, guided
tours, half-day or full-day tours, coach trips and overnight
explorations to locations throughout Sydney and beyond. During
2013-14 they offered excursions to:
•Berowra Waters
•Parliament House
•Guide Dogs
•Town Hall
•Blackheath Rhododendron Gardens
•Fox Studio Gourmet Markets
•The Big Kitchen
•Kimbriki
Vietnamese and Japanese cuisine and restaurant visits. We also
hosted seminars on topics including:
•Tax help & estate planning
•Extreme weather preparation around your home
•Diabetes management
•Social media
•How to read food labels
•Assertive Communication
•Safe driving
Two forums were also held; the Grandparents Forum and the
Hearing Forum.
Seniors Festival
386 seniors attended 10 events run by Council during the
Seniors Festival in March 2014. This included over 100 seniors
at the Mayoral Awards & concert held at Turramurra Uniting
Church. Five individuals and one community group received
certificates of appreciation for their service to the community.
The audience was then treated to an enjoyable performance by
the Ku-ring-gai Philharmonic Orchestra.
Helping seniors stay fit
The Fallproof classes being run in Gordon and Lindfield continue
to be booked out with 45 seniors attending the 10 week series
of classes. These classes are a very important tool in assisting
seniors stay active and independent in the community for as
long as possible.
•Morpeth
A health seminar on Macular Degeneration was held in February
with 36 seniors attending. Macular degeneration is the leading
cause of blindness and major vision loss in Australia and
accounts for up to 50% of all blindness. Other seminars were
held on dementia awareness and keeping your brain healthy,
hosted by Alzheimers Australia.
•The Rocks and Sydney Observatory
.
•Concord – Kokoda Walkway
•Alexandria and Kensington
•Movies at Macquarie and Cremorne
•Kurrajong Radio Museum
Other activities offered were cooking demonstrations in Spanish,
Ku-ring-gai Council
87
Help for migrants
We provide a helping hand to settle newly arrived migrants,
refugee and humanitarian entrants through a range of
services.
During 2013-14 we hosted a range of services and activities
specifically aimed at new migrants.
We partnered with the Community Migrant Resource Centre
(CMRC) to introduce a range of services and events targeted
towards Ku-ring-gai residents from Chinese and Korean
backgrounds. This includes the introduction of a whole range
of services and classes including English conversation classes,
children’s Chinese language classes, fitness classes as well as
an cultural events such as celebrating the Chinese Moon Festival.
The partnership was formed to provide assistance and increase
visibility to this growing segment in our community, with 2011
Australian Bureau of Statistics data indicating that 11.9% of
Ku-ring-gai residents had Chinese ancestry and 2.4% had
Korean ancestry.
International Women’s Day
Classes and events that were organised in partnership by CRMC
this past year include:
Family Fun Day and Moon Festival
A family event that included Chinese and Korean performances,
traditional games and a delicious free lunch.
International Women’s Day
Attendees were treated to inspiring speeches, African drumming
performances, the Chinese Cha Cha, a zumba dance workshop
and free pampering make up sessions.
Talk! Share! Learn! Group
Regular classes that encourage migrants to make friends while
practising their English.
Chinese Class for Kids
Language classes for children interested in learning Chinese.
Colourful Fitness Class
A free fitness class that combines yoga, balancing, stretching,
dancing and more.
At Home in Australia
Through one of our community grants, we helped fund At Home
in Australia, a book written by 33 students who tell their story
about migrating to Australia. At Home in Australia challenged
migrants to write and converse using the English language and
document their unique and often inspiring stories.
The book also acted as a useful teaching aid during classes, as
volunteer teachers prepared lesson material around the project
and to help students develop their stories. Copies of the book
are available at Ku-ring-gai Council Library branches in Gordon,
Lindfield, St Ives and Turramurra.
Interpreter services
Key publications such as the Ku-ring-gai Update resident
newsletter carry details of interpreter services available via the
Council. The Council also has a dedicated migrant worker from a
non-English speaking background as well as key staff to provide
interpreter services on an as-needs basis.
D i s a b i l i t y s e r v i c es
Providing events and activities for the disabled in Ku-ringgai is a priority for our Council, as is long-term planning
for their needs.
Disability Action Plan
During 2013-14 the Council reviewed and rewrote its Disability
Action Plan to ensure that all Council buildings and facilities are
accessible in the future. The plan covers capital works such as
footpaths, playgrounds and new buildings through to providing
information that is accessible via our website and customer
service centre.
Fresh Tracks project
The Council supported a partnership with the Fresh Tracks
Foundation, NSW Health and the HARTS driving school to
create a rehabilitation program for young acquired brain injury
patients. Fresh Tracks improves coordination, balance and
mood by providing an exercise program using fixed bikes. The
program was officially launched in May 2014 at the HARTS
driving school in St Ives.
International Day of People with a Disability
In conjunction with the South Turramurra Uniting Church, we
marked this anniversary with a concert featuring students with
a disability from five schools in Ku-ring-gai. The aim of the
concert was to showcase young performers and highlight the
fact that they are defined by their ability to perform, not their
disability. The concert was attended by over 100 people.
Discobility
The youth services team hosted a dance party for young
residents with a disability during 2013-2014, with around 100
attending.
Outreach services
The Council provides referral and outreach services to disabled
residents on an ongoing basis.
Fast Tracks
Ku-ring-gai Council
89
Ku-ring-gai
Community Grants
Ku-ring-gai Community Grants program provided $131,834 in
grants last year which allowed 55 local community groups the
chance to get their projects off the ground.
This program aims to increase the range and to improve the
quality of community services in Ku-ring-gai, and to inspire
artistic and cultural pursuits. Local organisations can more
easily develop new and innovative programs with funding
support from Council grants.
When setting up the grants program, Council identified areas in
which we believed needed improvement in Ku-ring-gai and set
up categories for groups to apply around these which included
small equipment, community development programs and arts
and cultural programs. We also negotiated a sponsorship
agreement with Turramurra and Lindfield Community Bank
branches resulting in a successful community capacity building
program, which empowered local community groups to make
real change in their chosen field, as well as encouraging
residents to participate in and to engage with their community.
Successful applicants included graffiti removal projects,
acquiring materials for a new arts program, funding for teaching
aids to assist with English language classes and Aboriginal
cultural awareness projects for children.
C a pa c i t y b u i l d i n g
wo r k s h o p s f o r
community groups
To further empower groups to action change within
their community, we ran a series of workshops to assist
the long-term sustainability of local organisations and
promote cross-sector collaboration. Topics that were
covered:
Media & Public Relations
Provided participants with a basic understanding of media
management and public relations skills and how to use these
skills effectively to promote their organisation.
Community Asset Building
This workshop identified community assets, activities and
benefits and ways to strengthen them, heighten social impact
and support future growth.
Effective Advocacy and Lobbying
Guided groups through how to engage in the political process
and create successful campaigns to influence public opinion.
D o g s D ay O u t
Over 2500 dog-owners and 500 dogs attended the Dogs Day
Out event at St Ives Showground in March 2014. There were
35 stall holders present and these included local veterinary
surgeries, dog grooming, dog accessory providers, pet
food product suppliers, boarding kennels, animal rescue
organisations, breed clubs and dog training clubs. The
educational message at the event was “update your pet’s
details” to prompt owners to check and register their pets.
Animal behaviour experts were also on hand to assist residents
with queries on training, barking dogs, aggressive dogs, etc.
On the day, dogs competed in many activities including doggie
races; fetch the paper, fancy dress, so you think your dog’s
got talent and a dog/owner look-alike competition. Entry to the
competitions were by gold coin donation which resulted in over
$300 being donated to Guide Dogs NSW.
inaugural ‘Ku-rin
c r e at i n g a h a pp i e r a n d h e a lt h i e r K u - r i n g - g a i
Mental health
Sports and fitness
Health and wellbeing
• Youth workshops and programs aimed at building confidence
and self-esteem
• We maintain and manage 71 tennis courts and 51 sports fields
in Ku-ring-gai, with over 36,000 people from 37 sports clubs
use our sportsfields
• Our sustainability team provide regular workshops promoting
healthier and more sustainable lifestyle choices
• Youth support and outreach program, which provides one-onone support for teenagers that are experiencing issues
• Regular parent forums which help parents to better understand
issues facing their teenage children
• Regular seniors’ seminars that address a range of issues facing
seniors including social isolation, health issues and building
strength.
• Active Ku-ring-gai, which aims to encourage people of all ages
and fitness levels to participate in fun physical activity. Activities
include yoga, tai chi, tennis, walking groups and more
• We provide a free immunisation service for young children
• We offered two free child safety checks for parents, where we
arrange child restraints and booster seats to be checked for
correct fit by a Roads and Maritime Services authorised fitter.
• Functional fitness for seniors which improves strength, mobility,
balance and coordination
• Active Kids aims to encourage primary school-aged children
to get active, have fun and meet new friends, while developing
important skills in team work and leadership.
Ku-ring-gai Council
91
C o r p o r at e a n d
governance
Ku-ring-gai Council
93
C o r p o r at e a n d g o v e r n a n c e :
r at es
r es t r u c t u r e
providing
$36
million
over
20 years
for asset
r e n e wa l
Director of Community Services Janice Bevan received the LG NSW Women in Local Government Award in 2013
Councillor Elaine Malicki also received a high commendation in the same award
We strive to make Ku-ring-gai Council the best organisation it can be so
we can achieve the community’s vision and aspirations.
Integrated corporate planning and consultation underpin everything we do, and ensure we are making
the right decisions on behalf of our community. Our sound financial and asset management means our
service delivery is sustainable for the future and our commitment to staff health and wellbeing creates a
safe and productive work environment to deliver those services.
2 0 1 3 /14
Completed rates restructure providing $36 million
over 20 years for asset renewal
ssessed in top 16 councils of NSW in TCorp
A
review of financial sustainability
Continued implementing the Asset Management
Strategy
Infrastructure levy approved by IPART in June
2014 as a permanent part of the rating structure
Integrated the Community Strategic Plan,
Xxxxx.
Delivery Program and Operational Plan, Long
Term Financial Plan and Asset Management
Strategy in consultation with 4,500 people
Xxxxx
Implemented recommendations from 2012
service review by external consultants Morrison
and Low
Won a Silver Award in the Australasian Reporting
Awards for the 2012-2013 Annual Report
Saved $1 million in workers compensation
premiums since 2012 through the Safestart
program
Two Women in Local Government Awards
Reduced legal costs by over $300,000
Implemented successful Health and Wellbeing
Programs for staff
Wahroonga local resident by JLorschy, 2013 Capture Ku-ring-gai Photo Competition
Ku-ring-gai Council
95
S u s ta i n i n g o u r
assets
Our future is
f i n a n c i a l ly s o u n d
Our assets are vital in delivering our community services.
Ku-ring-gai Council was assessed as being in a ‘sound’ financial
position with a ‘neutral’ outlook for the future in the NSW Treasury
Corporation’s ( TCorp’s) Financial Sustainability of the NSW Local
Government Section – April 2013.
In 2013 Ku-ring-gai Council adopted an impressive Asset
Management Strategy that integrates with other strategic,
financial and delivery plans. This ensures the strategy is
adequately funded and maintenance and upgrades are scheduled
into annual work programs.
To develop the strategy, we conducted a complete audit of our
assets and consulted closely with the community. The audit
helped us to determine the value, condition and remaining life of
all infrastructure assets and found we had an annual funding gap
of $5.6 million. The consultation identified what assets were most
important to our community and if they would support a levy to
sustain them. Roads, footpaths and drainage are our community’s
highest priorities and over 80% supported a levy.
We successfully applied to IPART to continue the infrastructure
levy in perpetuity and IPART granted this application in June
2014. This will provide an extra $2.6 million every year from 201415 to upgrade our roads. A rates restructure has also provided an
extra $36 million over 20 years for asset renewal and improved
operating efficiencies have diverted $18 million over 10 years.
We are well on the way to closing the funding gap and having
sustainable assets that provide improved service delivery now
and into the future.
Legal costs slashed
Ku-ring-gai Council continued to reduce its legal costs during
the 2013-14 financial year, down to $502,000 from $863,000 the
previous year. It has also continued to focus on mediation as a
means of resolving disputes with applicants, with a 60% reduction
in appeals compared with the previous year lodged in the Land &
Environment Court during 2013-14.
This puts us in the top 16 councils in NSW and is the result of
prudent and innovative financial management over many years.
This is a significant turnaround considering in 2000 we were on
the Department of Local Government’s financial watch list.
Council’s overall guiding principle is to maintain a healthy
financial position. This is underpinned by a sound income base
and commitment to control and delivery of services, facilities and
infrastructure demanded by the community in an effective and
efficient manner.
Council’s Long Term Financial Plan is reviewed each year and
focuses on funding capital works and upgrade and renewal of our
infrastructure assets to meet community expectations.
In 2013/14 we:
•Completed the implementation of the rates restructure, which
will provide $36 million over 20 years for asset renewal. The rates
restructure was made in response to our growing population.
It recognised that land value did not necessarily correlate with
people’s capacity to pay and unit dwellers use Council facilities
just as much as owners of large properties. This has resulted in a
fairer distribution of the rates burden and extra funding to improve
our infrastructure.
• Redirected approximately $18 million of savings from operations
over the next 10 years during the annual budgeting process
towards expenditure on renewal of infrastructure assets.
• Achieved an operating surplus which has fully funded the
depreciation of Council’s assets.
•Rationalised our records storage system to comply with state
legislation and free up badly needed storage space
• Funded the acquisition of a new administration building via a
dynamic capital strategy.
• Successfully applied for permanency of the Infrastructure Levy,
which will be used entirely to fund Council’s road works.
All of these initiatives have ensured a sustainable and secure
financial future for Ku-ring-gai Council and the community it
serves.
Financial strength and planning
The Council continues to refine and strengthen its Long Term
Financial Plan by fully integrating it with the Asset Management
Plans & Strategy. The emphasis is on providing additional funding
for infrastructure and major capital works.
Ku-ring-gai’s strong financial position was further underlined
during the 2013-14 financial year. Working capital increased to
$4.6 million in 2013-14 and a strong investment performance
achieved with $3.9 million in interest and investment revenue
against a budget of $3.8 million. The Council’s investment
portfolio outperformed the benchmark for the majority of the year.
Another operating surplus was achieved during 2013-14 – the
eighth consecutive surplus.
A Quarterly Budget Review System and associated training
for managers was introduced, allowing them to record, review
and report on budget variations on a quarterly basis. Financial
reporting systems were further improved with the implementation
of monthly budget reporting to managers and directors. More
enhancements in financial reporting are in progress and will be
implemented in the coming financial year.
Infrastructure levy approved
The Council successfully applied to IPART for a permanent
continuation of its infrastructure levy which was granted in
June 2014. The funds generated from the levy will be used to
consolidate and widen Ku-ring-gai’s road construction program
and will generate around $2 million in extra funding for roads
each financial year.
Records storage program
The Council implemented a Records Preservation and Disposal
Program over the past four years which was completed last year.
The program has involved extensive appraisal of all Council
records and appropriate storage (whether physical or online) to
ensure the Council is meeting its obligations fully under state
records legislation. The result is all Council records have now
been comprehensively sorted and stored and extra workspace
has been freed for staff and document storage.
I n t e g r at e d p l a n n i n g a n d r e p o r t i n g
In 2009 Ku-ring-gai Council was one of the first groups of
NSW councils to adopt a Community Strategic Plan (CSP)
under the new Integrated Planning and Reporting legislation.
That plan was substantially informed by the ground breaking
Sustainability Vision Report prepared in 2008. That report was
prepared from a comprehensive visioning process involving
intergenerational workshops with residents aged 9-99 years of
age. The Community Strategic Plan 2030 was complemented
by a four-year Delivery Program, one year Operational Plan
and corporate governance initiatives previously implemented
by Ku-ring-gai Council. In particular, it established a Long
Term Financial Plan, asset management policy and corporate
performance reporting system.
In 2013/14 we reviewed our CSP in line with the new
Integrated Planning and Reporting Guidelines. The review’s
key objectives were to:
•Ensure the plan reflected the changes that had taken place in
community thinking, needs and expectations over past years.
•Express the community’s long-term aspirations and priorities
in a contemporary manner.
•Documenting Ku-ring-gai – The review provided an
opportunity to take stock of and document the changes taking
place in the area as well as broader external influences and
government policy change.
•Aligning the plans with community priorities – The plans more
closely align with community priorities including statements
encapsulating the sentiments of the community now and
into the future and across generations. Issues and priorities
are grouped under six themes, which provide the foundation
from which the four-year Delivery Program and one-year
Operational Plan were developed.
•Clear roadmap to delivery – The new plans provide a clear
integration between the Community Strategic Plan’s policy
statements through to resourcing and funding options detailed
in the resourcing strategy and finally critical actions, tasks,
projects and services detailed in the Delivery Program and
Operational Plan. This provides the community and Council
with a clear roadmap for the delivery of priorities. Key local
plans and policies are also integrated with the documents with
implementation actions incorporated into the plans.
S i lv e r Awa r d f o r
2012 - 2013 Annual
Report
The Council is continuously improving its reporting processes
so residents, stakeholders and the wider community can obtain
accurate information about Ku-ring-gai and the organisation is
able to make informed decisions about its future.
In June 2014 Ku-ring-gai received a Silver Award from
Australasian Reporting Awards for the high standard of its
2012-2013 Annual Report.
The annual report, which was compiled and produced inhouse, was recognised for the ‘quality coverage’ of Council’s
performance and achievements during the 2012-2013 financial
year.
The Awards, which are open to all public and private industry
sectors, provide an opportunity for organisations to benchmark
their reports against the ARA guidelines, based on world best
practice for preparing reports.
•Structure all integrated plans to clearly show how Council
would deliver those aspirations and priorities.
The resultant suite of plans, adopted by Council in June 2013,
have exceeded all expectations and now provide a platform
from which Council can translate community aspirations and
priorities into reality. Key achievements of the process were:
•Listening to the community – We reviewed consultation
from the previous four years with residents, local groups
and organisations, businesses, agencies, state government
and regional partners around a broad range of social,
environmental, economic and civic leadership areas affecting
the whole of Ku-ring-gai. We also ran community ward summits
in 2013 to test the issues, challenges and aspirations were still
relevant. In total we consulted over 4,500 people.
Ku-ring-gai Council
97
C r e at i n g a h e a lt h y a n d h a pp y wo r k p l a c e
Ku-ring-gai Council values its staff and recognises the importance and benefits of creating a happy and healthy workplace.
We have an ongoing Health and Wellbeing Program that aims to:
•Lift employee morale
•Reduce absenteeism and sick leave
•Reduce employee turnover
•Reduce workplace accidents and improve safety
•Encourage staff networking and communication
•Improve staff productivity.
As part of the program we delivered a great range of benefits for
our staff in 2013/14:
•A health and wellbeing rebate for staff to promote physical
activity and psychological wellbeing across a range of beneficial
activities such as gym memberships, quit smoking programs
and exercise classes.
•Discounted local gym memberships at no cost to Council,
Monthly Lunchtime Seminars with guest speakers or activities
during lunch times to encourage learning opportunities and
staff networking. Seminar topics are picked by staff through a
survey each year and included bushwalks, movie screenings,
vegetarian cooking, reflexology and meditation.
•Organised lunchtime exercise classes including yoga, tai chi
and boxing paid for by Council staff and a corporate Weight
Watchers program.
•Held two health and wellbeing fairs attended by over 250 staff
that provide information on healthy food choices and portion
sizes, stretching and core strength opportunities, massage
and stress relief and biometric measurement. The health
fairs provide an opportunity for staff to review their health and
wellbeing choices and information upon which they can act.
Safestart is a behavioural change program that all the Council’s
operational and outdoor staff participate in. Its focus is on selfawareness techniques for avoiding injury through rushing and
complacency for example. Staff attend a 10-hour course with
face-to-face training and receive follow-up reinforcement through
take-home info packs and DVDs.
Women in Local Government Awards
The Council’s Director of Community Services Janice Bevan
received the LG NSW Women in Local Government Award in
2013 for her services. Councillor Elaine Malicki also received a
high commendation in the same award.
Employee Opinion Survey
During March/April 2014 the Council conducted an employee
survey through an independent consultant, asking for staff’s
opinion on how well Council is performing in relation to what
they thought was important.
The purpose of the survey was to identify the current culture
and areas for improvement, promote open communication and
identify actionable changes.
The results of the survey distributed to staff in June 2014
showed that while employees were generally content with their
jobs and the teams they were in, there needed to be greater
cooperation and communication between teams across Council.
Senior management are now developing a program to address
the survey’s findings.
•Free skin cancer checks were given to operational staff that
spend over 50% of their time outdoors.
Senior Management Training Program
As part of its commitment to continuous improvement, senior
staff are undergoing the Colloqium training program, which is
based on 360 degree feedback, self-awareness and coaching
by an experienced business mentor.
Safestart Program
The Safestart program was introduced in 2012 and since then,
the Council has reduced the occurrence of workplace incidents
and injuries by 70% and the cost of its workers compensation
insurance by around $1 million.
The intention of the program is to stimulate strategic and lateral
thinking among managers and encourage them to promote the
same qualities in their staff. The program commenced in April
and form part a continuous improvement program for all staff
over the next few years.
New Council administration building
N e w a d m i n i s t r at i o n b u i l d i n g p u r c h a s e
sites to repay loans for the site and is currently working through
this process
Ku-ring-gai Council purchased the building next door to our
current Council Chambers in Gordon for $22 million in December
2012 to house our office staff.
Review of Council also recognised our current building as an
unsuitable long-term option as Ku-ring-gai's main administration
centre.
The current administration building is completely run down and a
financial assessment revealed it would be more financially viable
to purchase a new building rather than renovating the current
one. The Department of Local Government’s 2009 Best Practice
For the sale to go through:
•We wrote a detailed capital expenditure review for the Division
of Local Government to review.
•We conducted a thorough accommodation needs study in
consultation with staff
We are currently in the process of renovating the new building to
suit our business needs and staff will relocate in 2015.
•Council considered the possible sale and reclassification of 23
Ku-ring-gai Council
99
Projects completed by 30 June 2014
Capital Works
Nature of project
Date completed
Total cost ($000) % Council funds Source of Council Funds
New Street - 32 Dumaresq to Moree Street
June 2014
166,400
100%
Section 94,
Parks Development Program
June 2014
223,500
100%
Infrastructure & Facilities,
New Street bet McIntyre and Dumaresq Streets, Gordon
August 2013
333,300
100%
Section 94,
Water Main Replacement Curagul Road
November 2013
58,200
100%
West Pymble Pool - Relining of Sewer Service
January 2014
46,100
100%
Turramurra Oval fence replacement
June 2014
45,800
100%
Section 94,
KWG - Relining of Sewer Service
January 2014
44,000
100%
General Funds
East Roseville Community Centre - Storage Space
February 2014
38,300
0%
Grants/Contributions,
Gordon Recreation Ground playground fence
August 2013
28,000
100%
Section 94, Infrastructure & Facilities,
Minor traffic improvements
June 2014
26,100
66%
Grants/Contributions, Infrastructure & Facilities,
Browns Field Fence Replacement
June 2014
22,700
100%
Turramurra Library - Roofing and Insulation
May 2014
19,500
100%
General Funds
Eastern Arterial Rd, - Bus Stop Construction
April 2014
13,300
0%
Old School Trattoria - Flooring Works
June 2014
11,200
100%
Nature of project
Date completed
Gordon Library Upgrade
October 2013
1,690,400
100%
Infrastructure & Facilities, LIRS, General Funds
Mahratta Curtilage Park
February 2014
377,500
100%
Section 94,
Major Events
May 2014
88,000
100%
General Funds
Pymble Soldiers Memorial Park stonework refurbishment
December 2013
62,900
82%
Cultural heritage
social and economic development
Nature of project
Date completed
Better Business Partnership - Phase 2
June 2014
340,500
100%
12 A Park Cresent, Pymble
July 2013
1,337,500
100%
Section 94,
Development Public Domain Stage 2
April 2014
359,200
100%
Section 94,
9 Havilah Lane - Disposal
May 2014
90,500
100%
General Funds
Upgrade Family Day Care Resource Centre Building
June 2014
53,000
100%
General Funds
Nature of project
Date completed
Golden Jubilee Field Masterplan works
May 2014
1,495,100
100%
Section 94,
Greengate Park Construction
December 2013
1,395,900
100%
Section 94,
Charles Bean Sportsfield synthetic grass field
December 2013
849,000
100%
Allan Small Park Upgrade
April 2014
504,900
98%
Section 94, Grants/Contributions, Infrastructure
& Facilities,
Allan Small Oval Sports field upgrade
June 2014
428,200
100%
Section 94,
Indoor Aquatic Facility - Car Parking
June 2014
374,700
100%
Section 94,
Charles Bean Sportsfield public amenities
December 2013
263,200
100%
Section 94, Infrastructure & Facilities, General
Funds
Project mgt of new lighting installations including Lindfield Park
February 2014
198,100
41%
Roseville Park acrylic courts & fences
March 2014
143,600
100%
Infrastructure & Facilities, General Funds
Charles Bean Sportsfield Floodlights
February 2014
99,500
0%
Bancroft Park playground upgrade
April 2014
97,700
100%
Allan Small Park acrylic courts & fences
May 2014
62,600
100%
Kent Road Oval acrylic courts & fences
April 2014
38,900
100%
Bancroft Park landscape works
October 2013
35,600
100%
St Ives Village Green 2 acrylic courts nearest playground
March 2014
28,600
100%
sport and recreation
Health and community services
Nature of project
Date completed Total cost ($000)
% Council funds Source of Council Funds
Youth Centre Upgrades
May 2014
113,900
100%
Section 94,
Ageing Strategy
February 2014
55,900
0%
Shorefest
April 2014
29,500
14%
Grants/Contributions, General Funds
Ku-ring-gai Council
101
environmental initiatives
Nature of project
Date completed
Total cost ($000)
% Council funds Source of Council Funds
Community Small Grants
November 2013
53,853
100%
Environmental Levy,
Pre and post fire weeding
June 2014
87,829
100%
Environmental Levy,
Monitoring And Inspections
June 2014
57,446
100%
Environmental Levy,
Community Environmental Events And Workshops
June 2014
74,200
100%
Environmental Levy,
Displays And Promotion Of Sustainable Behaviour And Technology
June 2014
32,000
100%
Environmental Levy,
Sustainability Data Management And Reporting System
April 2014
42,800
100%
Environmental Levy,
Bushcare
June 2014
35,000
100%
Environmental Levy,
LGEEP Solar and Heat Pump Hot Water Upgrades
May 2014
105,500
40%
Grants/Contributions, Environmental Levy,
Streetcare
June 2014
25,853
100%
Environmental Levy,
Wild Things
June 2014
25,000
100%
Environmental Levy
Business Recycling
June 2014
50,000
0%
Environmental art
April 2014
17,155
100%
Environmental Levy,
built and natural environment
Nature of project
Date completed
4 Bent Street Lindfield Acquisition
February 2014
2,472,300
100%
General Funds
February 2014
2,274,200
100%
General Funds
12 Bent Street - Property Acquisition
February 2014
2,132,000
100%
Section 94,
February 2014
2,076,700
100%
General Funds
Bush regeneration - Maintenance EEC and Maintain Geenweb sit
June 2014
1,485,500
94%
Catchment Management Research and Analysis / Partnerships
June 2014
439,000
100%
General Funds
Bio Filter Systems
June 2014
388,800
83%
Grants/Contributions, Environmental Levy
Streetscape improvements - construction - Princess Street
August 2013
384,900
100%
Maintenance of Environmental Levy 1 Stormwater Projects
June 2014
379,200
100%
Environmental Levy
Business Centres - Princes Street
August 2013
339,200
100%
Sustainable transport, cycleways
June 2014
289,700
70%
Fire breaks/trails
June 2014
232,200
0%
Lindfield Village Green scoping study Tryon Road, Lindfield
May 2014
99,300
100%
Section 94,
Phillip Kitchener Fire Trail
July 2013
96,000
0%
P r o j e c t s i n p r o g r es s at 3 0 J u n e 2 0 1 4
Capital Works
Nature of project
% Completed
Warrimoo Oval carpark and hall access
95%
56,600
100%
Warrimoo Ave Scouts & Guides halls
95%
136,600
100%
Remediation of old depot for Stage 2
50%
513,500
97%
Pool Operator Fitout - Signage, Shade, Lockers & Equipment
20%
773,900
100%
Pool Base Building Fitout - Gym & Cafe
50%
853,100
100%
NTRA - North Turramurra Recreation Area
60%
5,034,000
100%
Section 94, Golf Levy,
NTRA - Golf Finishing Works
40%
15,927,400
100%
Section 94, New Facilities,
Nature of project
% Completed
Wahroonga Park Playground Upgrade
70%
704,700
100%
Section 94,
Upgrade Ku-ring-gai Wildflower Garden centre for night use
95%
345,100
100%
Art Centre Upgrade
90%
161,600
100%
Section 94,
Nature of project
% Completed
Lindfield Village Green - Design Stage
70%
621,400
100%
Section 94,
Lindfield Community Hub, Woodford Lane
30%
250,000
100%
Section 94,
Ray Street Turramurra Masterplan
20%
150,000
100%
Section 94,
Cultural heritage
social and economic development
Ku-ring-gai Council
103
sport and recreation
Nature of project
% Completed
Koola Park masterplan works
50%
1,797,400
100%
Section 94
Turramurra Memorial Park Masterplan Works Stage 2
25%
559,700
100%
Section 94
Cameron Park extension
50%
478,300
100%
Section 94
St Ives Village Green Masterplan works - youth precinct
50%
207,600
100%
Section 94
Nature of project
% Completed
Water Sensitive Urban Design (Wsud) Projects From Catchment
80%
953,800
92%
General Funds
Business Food Waste Trial
75%
295,400
0%
Grants/Contributions
Illegal Dumping Program
80%
40,000
0%
Blackbutt Creek Catchment Flood Study
80%
144,400
25%
Section 94, Grants/Contributions, Infrastructure
& Facilities,
Littering Prevention
20%
130,000
0%
Nature of project
% Completed
B2 Land Subdivision
80%
5,345,000
46%
Grants/Contributions, Infrastructure & Facilities
St Johns Ave - Street and Park Upgrade - Design Stage
25%
335,500
100%
Section 94
Wahroonga Park Masterplan Works
25%
237,500
100%
Section 94
Lister Daley - Slope Stabilisation
80%
90,000
0%
Nature of project
% Completed
Relocation of Council Administrative Services
35%
28,738,000
100%
Environmental Levy, General Funds
Enterprise Asset Management - Roads
80%
151,700
100%
General Funds
Implementation Of Disability Discrimination Action Plan
90%
82,200
100%
General Funds
Licence Plate Recognition System
80%
80,800
100%
General Funds
environmental initiatives
built and natural environment
corporate and governance
Awa r d s & C i tat i o n s
Food
Surveillance Champion Award
NSW Food Authority
NSW Open Space Design and Management Award
Parks and Leisure Australia Awards
Presented to Council for its Open Space Acquisition Strategy
NSW
Open Space Planning Award
Parks and Leisure Australia Awards
2013 AILA NSW Excellence in Planning Award
Open Space Acquisition Program
Ministers’ Award for Women in Local Government
Director of Community Janice Bevan
(Highly commended - Cr Elaine Malicki)
Australasian
Reporting Awards
2014 Silver Award - Annual Report 2012-2013
AILA NSW Research and Communication Award
2013 AILA NSW Awards
Awarded for Thinking outside the Box: Key Design Elements
for Apartments in Ku-ring-gai
Division C and Overall Category Climate Action Award
Local Government NSW Excellence in the Environment
Awards in December 2013
Council’s Climate Wise Communities program
NSW
Women of the Year Award
Davidson 2014 Local Women of the Year
Mayor Jennifer Anderson
Ku-ring-gai Council
105
Burns Road, Wahroonga by FFatakia, 2013 Capture Ku-ring-gai Photo Competition
S u pp l e m e n ta r y I n f o r m at i o n
Financial Report for the year ended 30 June 2013
Income Statement.............................................................................................................................108
Statement of Financial Position........................................................................................................109
Statement of Changes in Equity.......................................................................................................110
Statement of Cash Flows..................................................................................................................111
Note 6(a) – Cash Assets and Investment Securities........................................................................112
Note 6(b) – Details of Movements and Utilisation of Restricted Cash Assets and Investments......112
Note 13 – Statement of Performance Measurement........................................................................114
Special Purpose Financial Statement
Income Statement of Council’s Other Business Activities................................................................116
Bi-annual Review - December 2013 - See www.kmc.nsw.gov.au/reporting
Ku-ring-gai Council
107
This Statement should be read in conjunction with the accompanying Notes.
(1) Original Budget as approved by Council - refer Note 16 for details on material budget variations
Net Operating Result for the year before Grants and
Contributions provided for Capital Purposes
Net Operating Result for the Year
19,257
6,245
Net Profit/(Loss) from Discontinued Operations
-
Discontinued Operations
24
4,815
15,806
-
15,806
Operating Result from Continuing Operations
19,257
34,572
453
28,997
15,790
14,709
1,223
95,744
5
4e
4d
4c
4b
page 4
8,360
22,114
-
22,114
90,202
33,887
460
27,861
14,958
13,036
-
112,316
137
111,550
65,779
12,306
6,368
7,295
6,677
13,754
Actual
2012
68,816
12,349
4,558
8,247
6,589
10,991
Actual
2013
Total Expenses from Continuing Operations
4a
5
3e,f
3e,f
3d
3c
3b
3a
Notes
97,547
Expenses from Continuing Operations
Total Income from Continuing Operations
Revenue:
Rates & Annual Charges
User Charges & Fees
Interest & Investment Revenue
Other Revenues
Grants & Contributions provided for Operating Purposes
Grants & Contributions provided for Capital Purposes
Other Income:
Net gains from the disposal of assets
Income from Continuing Operations
$ '000
Employee Benefits & On-Costs
Borrowing Costs
Materials & Contracts
Depreciation & Amortisation
Other Expenses
Net Losses from the Disposal of Assets
(1)
35,857
576
30,627
16,675
13,812
-
116,804
5,812
68,142
12,082
4,575
7,387
5,794
13,012
Budget
2013
for the financial year ended 30 June 2013
Income Statement
Ku-ring-gai Council
Financial Statements 2013
Ku-ring-gai Council
109
20
20
10
10
10
10
10
10
25
9
8
7
6b
8
8
7
6b
6a
Notes
Total Equity
Council Equity Interest
Non-controlling Interest
Retained Earnings
Revaluation Reserves
EQUITY
Net Assets
TOTAL LIABILITIES
Non-Current Liabilities
Payables
Borrowings
Provisions
Total Non-Current Liabilities
LIABILITIES
Current Liabilities
Payables
Borrowings
Provisions
Total Current Liabilities
TOTAL ASSETS
Non-Current Assets
Investments
Receivables
Inventories
Infrastructure, Property, Plant & Equipment
Intangible Assets
Total Non-Current Assets
ASSETS
Current Assets
Cash & Cash Equivalents
Investments
Receivables
Inventories
Other
Total Current Assets
$ '000
as at 30 June 2013
Statement of Financial Position
Ku-ring-gai Council
969,762
652,564
317,198
969,762
-
668,370
315,618
983,988
-
983,988
969,762
28,481
5,880
322
6,202
10,398
2,067
9,814
22,279
998,243
36,948
187
892,101
656
929,892
204
58,835
7,942
254
1,116
68,351
Actual
2012
983,988
55,656
31,676
339
32,015
11,047
2,992
9,602
23,641
1,039,644
34,999
192
938,784
850
974,825
13,028
42,876
7,379
253
1,283
64,819
Actual
2013
page 6
951,887
628,985
322,902
951,887
951,887
27,764
5,748
268
6,016
10,417
1,857
9,474
21,748
979,651
56,972
222
863,209
274
920,677
65
50,239
7,204
264
1,202
58,974
Actual
2011
20b (ii)
20 (d)
20 (c)
Notes
20 (d)
652,564
22,114
-
22,114
630,450
628,985
1,465
20b (ii)
315,618
317,198
(3,780)
(3,780)
(3,780)
-
322,902
(1,924)
320,978
Retained Reserves
Earnings (Refer 20b)
668,370
(1,580)
(1,580)
15,806
(1,580)
-
317,198
Non-
-
-
-
-
15,806
-
969,762
18,334
(3,780)
(3,780)
-
-
-
-
-
22,114
-
(459)
951,428
951,887
page 7
969,762
18,334
(3,780)
(3,780)
22,114
951,428
-
(459)
951,887
Total
Equity
983,988
14,226
(1,580)
(1,580)
(459)
969,762
970,221
Total
Equity
-
Council controlling
Interest
Interest
983,988
14,226
(1,580)
(1,580)
15,806
969,762
970,221
(459)
NonCouncil controlling
Interest
Interest
317,198
-
-
15,806
652,564
(459)
-
653,023
Retained Reserves
Earnings (Refer 20b)
20 (c)
Notes
Equity - Balance at end of the reporting period
Total Comprehensive Income (c&d)
- Other Movements
Other Comprehensive Income
d. Other Comprehensive Income
c. Net Operating Result for the Year
Revised Opening Balance (as at 1/7/11)
a. Correction of Prior Period Errors
b. Changes in Accounting Policies (prior year effects)
Opening Balance (as per Last Year's Audited Accounts)
2012
$ '000
Equity - Balance at end of the reporting period
Total Comprehensive Income (c&d)
- Revaluations : IPP&E Asset Reval Reserve
Other Comprehensive Income
d. Other Comprehensive Income
c. Net Operating Result for the Year
Revised Opening Balance (as at 1/7/12)
a. Correction of Prior Period Errors
b. Changes in Accounting Policies (prior year effects)
Opening Balance (as per Last Year's Audited Accounts)
2013
$ '000
Statement of Changes in Equity
Ku-ring-gai Council
Ku-ring-gai Council
111
Proceeds from Borrowings & Advances
Investments on hand - end of year
Total Cash, Cash Equivalents & Investments
plus:
Cash & Cash Equivalents - end of year
Cash & Cash Equivalents - beginning of year
17,856
plus:
6b
11a
11a
90,903
77,875
13,028
204
12,824
Net Increase/(Decrease) in Cash & Cash Equivalents
17,656
200
26,721
(1,579)
28,300
Net Cash Flow provided (used in) Financing Activities
Repayment of Borrowings & Advances
Payments:
(46,456)
(38,383)
(65,372)
56,463
836
32,559
(34,937)
(32,580)
(453)
(99)
(20,198)
68,737
15,306
4,483
17,099
50
15,151
Actual
2013
29,046
(2,254)
31,300
Receipts:
Cash Flows from Financing Activities
Net Cash provided (or used in) Investing Activities
(48,000)
11b
Notes
Purchase of Investment Securities
Purchase of Infrastructure, Property, Plant & Equipment
Payments:
Sale of Investment Securities
Sale of Infrastructure, Property, Plant & Equipment
Receipts:
Cash Flows from Investing Activities
Net Cash provided (or used in) Operating Activities
Employee Benefits & On-Costs
Materials & Contracts
Borrowing Costs
Bonds, Deposits & Retention amounts refunded
Other
Payments:
User Charges & Fees
Investment & Interest Revenue Received
Grants & Contributions
Bonds, Deposits & Retention amounts received
Other
Receipts:
Cash Flows from Operating Activities
$ '000
(18,000)
(70,000)
35,000
5,000
36,610
(35,857)
(28,409)
(576)
(80)
(16,086)
68,539
19,129
4,575
17,805
70
7,500
Budget
2013
Statement of Cash Flows
Ku-ring-gai Council
page 8
95,987
95,783
204
65
139
342
(1,758)
2,100
(36,068)
(29,081)
(48,165)
40,440
738
35,865
(33,559)
(31,468)
(460)
(155)
(16,737)
65,557
11,899
6,992
21,104
100
12,592
Actual
2012
Notes
b. "Held to Maturity"
8,375
34,501
42,876
34,999
34,999
-
34,999
55,904
13,028
13,000
12,999
3,000
6,000
34,999
-
8,375
31,500
3,001
42,876
13,028
13,028
2013
Actual
Non Current
18,840
39,995
58,835
204
59,039
16,823
25,502
14,493
2,017
58,835
204
204
2012
Actual
Current
36,948
36,948
page 32
30 June 2013 was $2.75M.
- Royal Bank of Scotland CPDO PP (Constant Proportion Debt Obligations - Principle Protected). This is a zero coupon senior bank bond with
a value of $6M and is capital protected and invested by Council on a "Held to maturity" basis being September 2016. The market value of the
CPDO PP at 30 June 2013 was $4.54M.
As per the General Terms and Conditions of the investment the Note benefits from principal protection equal to the Principal Protection
Amount on the Maturity Date only.
- CDO - Maple Hill, with a face value of $3M invested by Council on a "held to maturity" basis being December 2014. The market value at
time. The Ministerial Investment Order no longer allows investment in these products. These investments are:
-
36,948
16,000
11,948
3,000
6,000
36,948
-
2012
Actual
Non Current
Council holds two "grandfathered" investments that were previously entered into in accordance with the Ministerial Investment Order at the
Investments
6(b-i)
6(b-ii)
- "Designated at Fair Value on Initial Recognition"
Investments
a. "At Fair Value through the Profit & Loss"
Cash & Cash Equivalents
a. "At Fair Value through the Profit & Loss"
Cash, Cash Equivalents & Investments were
classified at year end in accordance with
AASB 139 as follows:
TOTAL CASH ASSETS, CASH
EQUIVALENTS & INVESTMENTS
- Deposits
- Term Deposits
- NCD's, FRN's (with Maturities > 3 months)
- CDO's
- Other Long Term Financial Assets*
Total Investments
Investments (Note 6b)
Cash on Hand and at Bank
Total Cash & Cash Equivalents
Cash & Cash Equivalents (Note 6a)
$ '000
2013
Actual
Current
Note 6a. - Cash Assets and Note 6b. - Investments
Notes to the Financial Statements
Ku-ring-gai Council
Ku-ring-gai Council
113
Total
Comprising:
- Term Deposits
- NCD's, FRN's (with Maturities > 3 months)
- CDO's
- Other Long Term Financial Assets
Balance at End of Year
Balance at the Beginning of the Year
Additions
Disposals (sales & redemptions)
Transfers between Current/Non Current
Note 6(b-ii)
Reconciliation of Investments
classified as "Held to Maturity"
Total
Comprising:
- Deposits
- Other Long Term Financial Assets
Balance at End of Year
Balance at the Beginning of the Year
Revaluations (through the Income Statement)
Additions
Disposals (sales & redemptions)
Note 6(b-i)
Reconciliation of Investments classified as
"At Fair Value through the Profit & Loss"
$ '000
Note 6b. Investments (continued)
Ku-ring-gai Council
31,500
3,001
34,501
39,995
22,501
(39,995)
12,000
34,501
8,375
8,375
13,000
12,999
3,000
6,000
34,999
36,948
12,051
(2,000)
(12,000)
34,999
-
-
Actual
Non Current
Actual
Current
18,840
172
3,831
(14,468)
8,375
2013
2013
25,502
14,493
39,995
36,645
6,081
(38,726)
35,995
39,995
16,823
2,017
18,840
13,594
(69)
7,029
(1,714)
18,840
2012
Actual
Current
16,000
11,948
3,000
6,000
36,948
56,972
15,971
(35,995)
36,948
-
-
Actual
Non Current
2012
(1)
(4)
Refer to Note 10(a)(ii) - excludes all payables & provisions not expected to be paid in the next 12 months (incl. ELE).
Asset Renewals represent the replacement &/or refurbishment of existing assets to an equivalent capacity/performance
as opposed to the acquisition of new assets (or the refurbishment of old assets) that increases capacity/performance.
Asset Renewals include building and infrastructure assets only.
(4)
page 42
Refer to Note 10(a).
97.76%
3.15%
56.63%
2.24%
2.06
(3)
95.09%
3.39%
58.57%
2.30%
2.05
Prior Periods
2011
2012
Refer Notes 6-8 inclusive.
95.45%
3.36%
61.69%
2.08%
2.04 : 1
Indicator
2013
(2)
11,411
11,955
2,398
71,330
68,816
111,550
2,032
97,614
29,054
14,275
Amounts
2013
(1)
Notes
Depreciation, Amortisation & Impairment
Asset Renewals
5. Building & Infrastructure Renewals Ratio
Rates, Annual & Extra Charges Outstanding
Rates, Annual & Extra Charges Collectible
4. Rates, Annual Charges, Interest &
Extra Charges Outstanding Percentage
3. Rates & Annual Charges
Coverage Ratio
(excl. Capital Items & Specific Purpose Grants/Contributions)
Debt Service Cost
2. Debt Service Ratio
Current Liabilities less Specific Purpose Liabilities (2,3)
Current Assets less all External Restrictions
1. Unrestricted Current Ratio
Local Government Industry Indicators
$ '000
Note 13a(i). Statement of Performance Measurement - Indicators
Ku-ring-gai Council
Ku-ring-gai Council
115
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






To assess the rate at
which these assets
are being renewed
relative to the rate at
which they are
depreciating.
Purpose of Asset
Renewals Ratio
To assess the impact
of uncollected rates
and annual charges
on Council's liquidity
and the adequacy of
recovery efforts.
Purpose of Rates &
Annual Charges
Outstanding Ratio
To assess the degree
of Council's
dependence upon
revenue from rates
and annual charges
and to assess the
security of Council's
income.
Purpose of Rates &
Annual Charges
Coverage Ratio
To assess the impact
of loan principal &
interest repayments
on the discretionary
revenue of council.
Purpose of Debt
Service Ratio
To assess the
adequacy of working
capital and its ability
to satisfy obligations
in the short term for
the unrestricted
activities of Council.
Purpose of
Unrestricted Current
Ratio
2.04 : 1
2.08%
61.69%
3.36%
95.45%
page 43
The Asset Management Strategy and
Asset Management Plans identifying asset
ratios have been incorporated and are
monitored within Council's Long Term
Financial Plan.
2012/13 Ratio
Commentary on 2012/13 Result
This ratio assesses only the impact of
Rates, Annual, Interest & Extra Charges on
liquidity and the adequacy of recovery
efforts and is in line with Council's internal
target.
2012/13 Ratio
Council's dependence upon rates revenue
has increased from 58.57% in 2011/12 to
61.69% in 2012/13.
2012/13 Ratio
Council's ability to service its debt is strong.
In accordance with Council's Long Term
Financial Plan borrowing is only undertaken
in accordance with Council's borrowing
policy.
2012/13 Ratio
Council's liquidity position is satisfactory.
Council can easily pay its debts as they fall
due.
2012/13 Ratio
Note 13a(ii). Local Government Industry Indicators - Graphs
Ku-ring-gai Council





Income from continuing operations
Access charges
User charges
Fees
Interest
Grants and contributions provided for non capital purposes
Profit from the sale of assets
Other income
Total income from continuing operations
(120)
(31)
Return on Capital %
Subsidy from Council
-
36
13.1%
-
12.3%
-
741
30
741
plus Opening Retained Profits
plus Adjustments for amounts unpaid:
- Corporate taxation equivalent
add:
- Subsidy Paid/Contribution To Operations
less:
- Dividend paid
Closing Retained Profits
831
761
85
SURPLUS (DEFICIT) AFTER TAX
Surplus (deficit) from discontinued operations
-6.0%
390
-
-5.5%
293
-
3,400
195
720
3,880
-
3,394
-
3,400
(189)
Surplus (deficit) from ALL Operations before tax
less: Corporate Taxation Equivalent (30%) [based on result before capital]
(240)
(189)
-
(240)
100
(30)
121
(36)
Surplus (deficit) from Continuing Operations after capital amounts
70
(189)
(240)
100
121
Surplus (deficit) from Continuing Operations before capital amounts
Grants and contributions provided for capital purposes
528
39
40
70
677
(189)
479
9
488
514
46
40
79
679
(240)
431
8
439
Actual
2012
817
79
27
72
995
100
925
170
1,095
Actual
2013
Art Centre
786
147
25
77
1,035
121
Expenses from continuing operations
Employee benefits and on-costs
Borrowing costs
Materials and contracts
Depreciation and impairment
Other expenses
Total expenses from continuing operations
922
234
1,156
$ '000
Actual
2012
Thomas Carlyle
Childrens Centre
Actual
2013
Income Statement of Council's Other Business Activities
Ku-ring-gai Council
SPFS 2013
Ku-ring-gai Council
117
1,771
83
1,854
Access charges
User charges
Fees
Interest
Other income
117
(437)
112
(397)
add:
less:
- Dividend paid
Return on Capital %
n/a
-
(175)
(104)
(150)
n/a
-
(150)
-6.6%
607
-
5,345
-8.2%
429
-
3,816
315
-
1,916
3,814
3,816
(313)
260
(387)
(313)
-
(387)
391
(117)
372
(112)
274
(313)
(387)
391
372
317
167
152
191
827
(313)
514
514
Actual
2012
360
264
166
149
939
(387)
552
552
Actual
2013
41
1,403
1
1,445
391
1,751
85
1,836
Actual
2012
Gordon Golf Club
42
1,429
11
1,482
372
Borrowing costs
Other expenses
Actual
2013
Trade Waste
$ '000
Ku-ring-gai Council
SPFS 2013
3,506
3,487
-
add:
less:
- Dividend paid
Return on Capital %
(264)
-2.2%
717
-1.0%
143
3.8%
-
page 5
4.1%
-
3,883
-
-
4,556
-
498
16
8,188
3,487
48
53
-
11,413
3,987
3,883
112
(262)
123
160
(48)
175
(53)
(35)
(262)
(35)
160
175
(35)
(262)
23
62
44
129
160
278
11
289
10
64
50
124
175
287
12
299
669
669
277
153
14
260
704
(35)
666
666
Actual
2012
Actual
2013
Actual
2013
Actual
2012
Tennis Courts
Turramurra Golf
Course
313
181
96
338
928
(262)
Borrowing costs
Other expenses
Access charges
User charges
Fees
Interest
Other income
$ '000
Ku-ring-gai Council
SPFS 2013
Ku-ring-gai Council
119
(177)
(177)
(289)
(289)
Return on Capital %
add:
less:
- Dividend paid
-
-2.2%
780
-20.0%
204
-154.9%
113
48
68
127
12,349
885
-
-
12,945
90
935
885
(110)
(110)
-
(110)
(177)
(289)
59
11
70
Actual
2013
119
11
9
41
180
(110)
38
38
Actual
2012
-122.8%
127
-
90
140
-
74
(124)
(124)
-
(124)
147
11
9
36
203
(124)
79
79
Actual
2012
Nursery
52
116
47
215
(177)
-
Actual
2013
Swimming Pool
2
226
61
289
(289)
Borrowing costs
Other expenses
Access charges
User charges
Fees
Interest
Other income
$ '000
Ku-ring-gai Council
SPFS 2013
(424)
-
282
(85)
197
Return on Capital %
add:
less:
- Dividend paid
359
-
13,508
1.9%
278
page 7
-37.5%
458
1,034
85
14,824
1,099
1,034
(424)
(424)
282
838
116
954
Actual
2012
440
19
514
405
1,378
(424)
992
992
Actual
2013
Commercial Leasing
159
48
267
236
710
282
Borrowing costs
Other expenses
Access charges
User charges
Fees
Interest
Other income
$ '000
Ku-ring-gai Council
SPFS 2013
Ku-ring-gai Council
121

Ku-ring-gai Council`s winning submission

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