fraser coast living - budget edition 2011
DESCRIPTION
Residents newsletter July to October 2011TRANSCRIPT
Ph 1300 79 49 29 | [email protected] | www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au
July - October 2011 BUDGET EDITION
CBD Scheme for Fraser Coast
Community investments
Changes to water billing
Cause for celebration
Momentum is building on the Fraser Coast that suggests the region is turning the economic corner. A number of multi-million dollar developments have recently been announced, including the $120 million Wyndham Hervey Bay Resort, the $100 million expansion of Station Square Shopping Centre in Maryborough and the $110 million St Stephens Private Hospital in Hervey Bay.
“Couple these developments with the Council’s $111 million annual budget and it is not hard to get the feeling that the light at the end of the tunnel is starting to glow,” Fraser Coast Mayor Mick Kruger said.
The 2011/12 Budget focuses on long-term
sustainability and providing infrastructure that supports jobs and local businesses.
A total of $40.46 million will be spent on infrastructure, with half of the capital budget to be directed at the roads network.
Also included in the Budget is $5.5 million to continue the $6.5 million redevelopment of the Maryborough Aquatic Centre (artist’s impression pictured above) and funding for the Tiaro Medical Centre.
Cr Kruger said the community infrastructure projects, along with the major developments, would provide jobs during the construction phase and on-going jobs when they were finished.
“More importantly, they will inject confidence into the Fraser Coast business sector.
Annual rates
notices will soon arrive
and Council has acted to help
ease the pressure
on household budgets.
After ongoing feedback from the
community, it has introduced a new
payment and discount structure.
Ratepayers now have three ways to pay –
one upfront payment, two instalments or
four instalments.
See page 8 for full details.
“Confidence is probably the single most important commodity that the region needs right now.”
Council has also embarked on a number of projects to encourage business, investment and development.
It has introduced infrastructure charges incentives to stimulate the development industry, aiming to attract investment especially in the central business districts, small lots and medical centres (see page 3).
In the past four years Council has reduced its operational costs by $10.27 million, including finding $2.7 million in savings for the 2011/12 Budget.
Millions flow into the region
2 Fraser Coast Regional Council NEWS July - October 2011 - Budget edition
As a Council we place great emphasis on community feedback and finding out what you feel is important.
One of the issues raised was the pressure family budgets are under. Unfortunately prices continue to rise and that affects Council just as much as the family budget.
One of the ways you suggested we could help take the pressure off was to spread the cost of rates payments throughout the year, while still being able to access the rates discounts.
Council has listened and has made changes to rates payments to help spread the load. It has also separated the water bills, spreading them over three payments four months apart, and attracting a discount. (Full details are on page 8.)
Council has undertaken public consultation on a variety of topics this year, from changes to the Hervey Bay Esplanade to airport master plans, and I urge you to Have Your Say.
Meanwhile the development industry continues to show signs of improvement. In June the $120 million Wyndham Hervey Bay Resort was launched, adding to the almost $500 million worth of projects earmarked for the Fraser Coast.
Council has launched its Streetscape Scheme to help businesses improve their facades and the Infrastructure Incentive Scheme to attract business and investment in the region.
As a result, the Fraser Coast is riding a new wave of confidence. As a community, we can look forward to a bright future.
Cr Mick Kruger Mayor Fraser Coast Regional Council
Project updates
Residents will have noticed the changing landscape on the Fraser Coast, with major projects taking shape.August trifecta August is shaping up as a boom month, with three major projects due for completion. They are the $5 million Community Centre in Hervey Bay; the new $900,000 Maryborough Animal Refuge in Bright Street; and the $1.3 million project at the Hervey Bay PCYC.
Tiaro Medical Centre Four tenders were received from companies to build the $400,000 Tiaro Medical Centre. At the time of printing, tenders were being assessed, with work expected to start in the last week of July. The project will transform the former Tiaro Shire Council administration building to include a reception area, doctor’s office, three consultation rooms and a pharmacy dispensary area.
Bauple RV camping In a bid to attract grey nomads to Bauple, Council has applied for a $50,000 State Government grant to develop an overnight camping area for RVs and self-contained caravans. The site - at the intersection of Bauple Drive, Main Street and Forestry Road - was determined after
wide community consultation. Council has committed to pushing ahead with the project even if the grant application is unsuccessful.
Airport Industrial Estate expansion Sixteen fully serviced lots will be created in the $1.6 million expansion of the Airport Industrial Estate in Hervey Bay. QCivil was awarded the contract. Earthworks started in June and it is expected to take 16 weeks to complete.
Nissen Street upgrade Motorists using one of the busiest roads in Hervey Bay may face delays as the road is upgraded. Lanson Civil has been awarded the $400,000 contract to reconstruct about 380m of Nissen Street, south from Chancellor Drive. The work includes pavement rehabilitation, footpaths and drainage works. One lane of the road will remain open during the work.
Harland car park drain Shoppers using the Harland Car Park in Lennox Street, Maryborough, will soon be sharing the site with earthmoving equipment. Lanson Civil has been awarded the contract to replace the drain under the car park, which was damaged in the January floods. It will be replaced with three-metre diameter pipes. The $1 million-plus project is due to start in August and finish by the end of November.
Small business owners can give their buildings some extra sparkle through a new Council scheme.
The Fraser Coast Streetscape Scheme allows small businesses, which employ fewer than 20 people, to apply for grants of up to $1,500; and $2,500 if the property is listed on Council’s Local Heritage Register, to enhance the appearance and accessibility of their business.
The grants are on a dollar-for-dollar basis and will not exceed 50% of the total cost of the approved works.
They cover work such as painting, cleaning of brickwork, the removal and replacement of cladding and awnings, the removal of steps to install an access ramp or minor works to make other parts of the premises more accessible.
Round 1 of the program opened in July and covered businesses in the main streets of Tiaro and Howard and defined areas of the Maryborough CBD and precincts of Pialba, Scarness, Torquay and Urangan in Hervey Bay.
Visit www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au (Business tab) for information sheets, forms and eligible zones maps.
Image is everything
Ph 1300 79 49 29 | [email protected] | www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au 3
To stimulate the economy, developers will be offered incentives to start work on the Fraser Coast under a policy adopted by Council.Council adopted infrastructure charges that apply across the Fraser Coast in accordance with the new state government guidelines that set the maximum charge a Council can apply.
“To simplify matters Council has decided to set the charge at the maximum level and offer incentives to stimulate the development industry,” Fraser Coast Mayor Mick Kruger said.
“By moving in this direction Council will be able to make changes to the incentive
policy quickly to respond to changing economic climates.
“The incentives aim to attract investment, especially in the Central Business Districts, in-fill development, small lots and medical centres.”
The funds raised by the infrastructure charges contribute to roads, water, sewerage, parks and drainage works that Council has to implement to cater for a new development.
The incentives will apply to existing approvals and new applications.
Visit www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au (Development and Building / Strategic Planning News) to view the policy.
Infrastructure Charges Incentives Let’s TalkIn recent months Council has asked for feedback on a variety of topics from mangrove management to electoral divisions and airport master plans.Almost 2500 people put in their comments on electoral divisions alone.
This year Council has asked your opinion on:
• Airport Master Plan
• Mangrove Management
• Maryborough Central Business District
• Hervey Bay Esplanade precincts
• Divisions (round 1 and 2)
• Local Heritage Register
• Fraser Coast 2031 - Community Plan
• Local Laws Review
Council offers many avenues for you to provide feedback or share your ideas and visions to help shape our future or stay informed on projects.
Enews – Get the latest news and community consultation topics delivered direct to your desktop.
Twitter – Follow us on www.twitter.com/frasercoastrc
Community Consultation – Have your Say on proposed projects.
Report an issue – Submit an online form to report potholes, litter or maintenance issues.
Complaints – Submit an online form or contact a Customer Service Centre.
Community Chats – Informal meetings with Councillors and Senior Staff.
Contact us – M PO Box 1943, Hervey Bay, Q, 4655 W www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au P 1300 79 49 29 F 4197 4455 E [email protected]
Fraser Coast Living is produced and published by the Fraser Coast Regional Council.
It is delivered three times a year to all residences and is printed locally on eco-friendly paper. Feedback can be sent to [email protected]
Pay your dog or cat registration renewal by August 31 and you will receive a $20 discount. That means the registration fee for a whole dog or cat drops from $99 to $79 and from $48 to $28 for a de-sexed dog or cat.
The registration fee for whole cats and dogs 8 years of age and older will drop from $69 to $49 with the discount.
To keep costs down Council will not issue new dog tags this year.
Pet owners who have lost tags will be able to get new tags when they pay their renewals.
To make paying the renewal quick and easy, pet owners can pay their registration online with Bpay.
Just follow the instructions on the bottom of the renewal notice.
Online answer for lost pets Council will launch a web-based system that will match lost dogs or cats with their owners by using the registration tag numbers. People who find lost animals can also call Council and be provided with the owner’s details.
To release your contact information, go to www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au (Services / Animals / Animal Registration Tags). Forms are also available from Council’s Customer Service Centres.
Only details that you approve will be released.
Microchip your pet Owners who sell or give away an animal older than eight weeks must ensure it is microchipped and provide the new owner with the serial number and details of the registry.
Visit www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au for facts sheets on the new state legislation.
Register for a discount
Disclaimer: Every effort was taken to ensure the information in this newsletter was correct at the time of printing.
4 Fraser Coast Regional Council NEWS July - October 2011
Cr David Dalgleish Deputy Mayor M: 0417 777 194 E: [email protected]
Cr Barb Hovard M: 0418 797 165 E: [email protected]
Cr Julie Arthur M: 0458 100 228 E: [email protected]
Cr Belinda McNeven M: 0417 777 206 E: [email protected]
Cr Sue Brooks M: 0409 485 818 E: [email protected]
Cr Les MucKan M: 0407 653 133 E: [email protected]
Councillor UpdatesGet set for digital switchANALOG TV SIGNALS will be switched off across the Fraser Coast Regional Council area and the rest of regional Queensland on 6 December 2011.
From that date, free-to-air TV will be broadcast in digital only. Digital TV provides up to 16 channels of free-to-air as well as better picture and sound quality.
The five Councils in the Wide Bay region (Fraser Coast is one of the five), are working together to ensure the switch to digital TV is relatively straightforward.
A Liaison Officer funded by the Federal Government has been employed to promote the switch to digital TV to local organizations and community groups.
The Household Assistance Scheme is available to people who qualify. Eligible households will receive a letter from Centrelink when the Scheme opens in this area.
This will be the time for people to follow the directions in the letter.
To find out more visit www.digitalready.gov.au or call 1800 10 20 13.
Staff ensure jobs well doneAT A TIME when it is easy for those who want to be negative about everything, I strongly believe that there are many good outcomes to be promoted across this great region.
Council staff have been carrying out first class work in record time. Many people would notice that no matter where you travel on the Fraser Coast from the smaller communities around Maaroom, Boonooroo through to Glenwood, Tiaro and across to Burrum Heads and Howard and everywhere in between, you will find Council workers making the Fraser Coast even more beautiful and a safer place to call home.
I understand that there is much more to be done but I will say I am grateful for all the good work that has been achieved so far.
As a regionally focused Councillor, I do my best to ensure matters are treated equally and in a timely manner regardless of the size of the issue.
Meeting the financial challengeCOUNCIL IS FACED WITH continually rising prices for services we provide and for every road, bridge and building we construct.
Trying to reduce spending and still provide a high level of service is a continual challenge, but I am pleased that we are well advanced in our applications to the State Government to carry out some coastal sand pushing.
Council budgets every year towards the eventual coastal works that our SEMP will outline.
Building rock walls is expensive but I see no other solution to protect some areas so that our children will enjoy the simple pleasure of walking along a beach.
While it may appear that Council doesn’t spend its entire capital works budget each year, this is because some of the income is earmarked for future works such as anticipated coastal works.
This money is kept in reserves, which attract interest, and reduce the necessity to increase borrowings in the years to come.
Resealing prolongs lifespanRESIDENTS HAVE BEEN ASKING ‘why is Council resealing perfectly good roads?’. There are very sound reasons for the reseal program. The bitumen seal binds and waterproofs the gravel pavement which supports the traffic.
While bitumen is a durable waterproofing treatment, it can be affected by environmental influences such as ultraviolet light and wearing from traffic.
The bitumen seal remains effective from between seven and 12 years, depending on its environment, when the waterproofing ability of the bitumen breaks down and potholes and other defects appear.
By resealing we prolong the life of the road and protect the pavement.
Bitumen does not stick well in cold weather so work has been delayed until temperatures start to rise in mid-August.
PS: If your family hasn’t been down to check out the new play equipment in Maryborough’s Anzac Park, you must visit. It will be worth it.
Doors open on sustainability THIS YEAR COUNCIL IS partnering with Ann Moffatt and other local home owners to bring Sustainable House Day to the Fraser Coast. This is the 10th year anniversary of Sustainable House Day – on Sunday September 11th.
The day is all about local home owners opening their houses to show other interested people what they have done.
The home owners might have installed solar power, low energy lights or water saving devices. Or it could be that home owners have vegetable gardens and are producing some of their own food.
It’s great to see people open up their homes to allow others to see the interesting tips they have found to help keep the cost of living down.
For example a rain tank hooked up to your roof can save you lots if you’re someone who loves to water the garden.
More information on Sustainable House Day will be available at www.sustainablehouseday.com.
Region needs to pull together DIVISIONS OR NO DIVISIONS? That has been a hot topic on the Fraser Coast for the past couple of months.
The second round of consultation on whether the region should have electoral divisions at the 2012 elections was conducted on a request from the Change Commissioner.
As a Fraser Coast Regional Councillor and a servant of the public, I was asked to give my opinion on the matter of divisions.
As I have shared in the past and during the public consultation period, we as a region should be standing together and showing the way by not having divisions.
There is still too much “us and them”. This is something we cannot afford if we want our region to prosper. We need the advancement of the Fraser Coast to be the Council’s focus.
We should be pulling together and not apart by showing the world that we are “a can do Council” by standing on our own two feet.
Cr Linda Harris M: 0417 711 993 E: linda.harris@ rasercoast.qld.gov.au
Cr Anne Nioa M: 0418 741 624 E: [email protected]
Cr Debbie Hawes M: 0458 100 224 E: [email protected]
Cr Gerard O’Connell M: 0438 231 868 E: [email protected]
Ph 1300 79 49 29 | [email protected] | www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au 5
Well done event organisersEACH MONTH the Council provides financial and in-kind support to many organisations throughout the region.
Below is a list of events which were supported in June.
• Tiaro Field Day• World’s Greatest Pub Fest• Best of Brass• Bail Up at Black Swamp Creek Single
Action Shooting Competition• Classic Country Music Stampede• Maryborough Art Society Annual Art Festival• Teebar Country Stampede• Queensland Interschool State
Equestrian Championships• Fraser Coast Sprints• National Town Criers Championships• Fraser Coast Business Awards• Tiaro Pony Club Gymkhana• U13 Boys Qld State Hockey Championship• Annual Inter Regional Football Gala –
Maryborough Special School
Congratulations to all the organisers and volunteers.
Make the most of opportunitiesWITH TOUGH TIMES confronting the leisure tourism market, it is important that we seize every opportunity that our regional events offer.
Council has committed more than $700,000 in its 2011/12 Budget to stage the major drawcards on the Fraser Coast events calendar, including the World’s Greatest Pub Fest and the Hervey Bay Whale Festival.
While the economic and promotional spin-offs from these events are well documented, we have to realise that everything from a conference to a sporting carnival can generate big business for our region.
We are encouraging businesses and community organisations to “get smart” about how they can best gain leverage from such events.
Council will continue to provide significant financial and in-kind support to help fund and stage events but we need you to bring forward ideas and help maximise economic impacts and sustainability for the Fraser Coast.
Making special events happenA WARM HELLO to everyone on the Fraser Coast.
To all the people on the Teebar Sports Association Committee and their volunteers, congratulations on once again holding a successful and most enjoyable rodeo and campdraft. About 3,000 people passed through the gates on the day – a tremendous result.
A special thank you from me to the team on the World’s Greatest Pub Fest Organising Committee and volunteers. This event attracts around 10,000 people (40% visitors from outside the area) each spending about $300. It is easy to calculate the obvious economic benefit to the area.
It is interesting to note that it was these two events that received special mention by the tourism minister during the recent tourism forum.
It is events that bond and shape a community. Fraser Coast has such a valuable resource in its active community members and volunteers - we have an events calendar to be proud of.
Airport potential soarsIT IS WITH PRIDE and satisfaction that our Aviation Strategy, which was endorsed late last year, has already had some success. The Grant Kenny owned and operated Chopperline has launched a flight training school at the Maryborough Airport.
A big part of this economic development-type strategy was to attract new businesses and grow the opportunities to create new employment and training for our region’s residents.
The launch of the Maryborough branch of Chopperline “ticks all of these boxes”.
Initiatives like this will see the Council and ratepayers get greater returns from business and renewed use of our airports.
As I have stated before, I believe the aviation sector is one of the key drivers of our regional economy. This recent news supports this belief. I and many others, look forward to new investment, more jobs and innovative training and education thanks to aviation.
Council meetingsCouncil meetings are open to the public and residents are welcome at attend.August
• Wednesday 3 August, 9.30am Ordinary Meeting No. 14 Hervey Bay
• Wednesday 10 August, 9.30am Planning & Development Committee Meeting No. 6 Hervey Bay
• Wednesday 17 August, 9.30am Ordinary Meeting No. 15 Maryborough
September
• Wednesday 7 September, 9.30am Ordinary Meeting No. 16 Hervey Bay
• Wednesday 14 September, 9.30am Planning & Development Committee Meeting No. 7 Hervey Bay
• Wednesday 21 September, 9.30am Ordinary Meeting No. 17 Maryborough
October
• Wednesday 5 October, 9.30am Ordinary Meeting No. 18 Hervey Bay
• Wednesday 12 October, 9.30am Planning & Development Committee Meeting No. 8 Hervey Bay
• Wednesday 19 October Ordinary Meeting No. 19 Maryborough
Community ChatCommunity Chats are an opportunity for informal conversation between residents, Councillors and senior staff.Community Chat sessions are held across the region and the schedule includes sessions at shopping centres and community halls.
The next Community Chat will be held at Glenwood Community Centre on Tuesday 20 September at 6.30pm.
Visit www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au for further information
6 Fraser Coast Regional Council NEWS July - October 2011 - Budget edition
$6.5 million aquatic centre to make a splash
The redevelopment also includes:
• Repairs to the existing 25m heated pool to rectify water circulation issues;
• An eight-lane 50m pool;
• New entry building, amenities and office; and
• Landscaping, barbecues and passive recreation areas.
The $5.5 million allocation from the Budget was part of an $8.04 million
A learn-to-swim/hydrotherapy pool is one of the features of the $6.5 million redevelopment of the Maryborough Aquatic Centre.A water play area including fountains, flowing water course, zero depth zones with in-ground spray jets and a toddlers’ pool are also included in the designs.
Council approved $5.5 million for the project in the 2011/12 Budget. Tenders were called in July and work is expected to start in September.
Promoting cultural diversity and learning
Providing a diverse range of cultural experiences that promote community inclusiveness, participation and enjoyment is a priority for Council.
$313,000 has been allocated to the Regional Art Gallery in Hervey Bay; $214,000 for the Heritage Gateway; and $208,000 for cultural services.
To enhance the region’s accessibility to cultural arts performance and entertainment, $516,000 has been allocated to the Brolga Theatre.
$2.15 million has been allocated to the regional library service, which offers a community space for social connectiveness and to provide relaxed and pleasurable facilities to communicate and interact.
Promoting our vibrant community
Council will allocate $704,000 to support and stage its iconic regional events that celebrate community pride, including the Mary Poppins Festival, Hervey Bay Whale Festival, World’s Greatest Pub Fest and the RACQ Technology Challenge Maryborough.
It also stages Australia Day events and Christmas-themed activities.
$362,000 will go to the operation of the region’s Visitor Information Centres in Maryborough, Hervey Bay and the Airport, as well as supporting the Tiaro Visitor Information Centre.
$670,000 has been allocated for regional marketing.
Supporting community groups
Council has allocated $575,000 in community sponsorship and assistance to encourage a community that is participative, empowered and self-sustaining, through a supportive network.
This includes ensuring our beaches are safe by providing the Hervey Bay Surf Lifesaving Club with $13,000 to carry out patrols over summer.
A range of other events gained support, including the Teebar Rodeo, Fraser Coast Cultural Festival, Hervey Bay Seafood Festival, Fraser Coast Show, Queensland Eisteddfod, Messiah production and Whistle Stop Tour.
investment in Fraser Coast parks and recreational facilities.
It also includes $1.5 million for park and recreational equipment and public amenities that will provide the community with a diverse range of active and passive recreational and sporting facilities.
Projects range from $100,000 for lighting on the Hervey Bay Esplanade, $636,000 for park furniture and play equipment and $519,000 for public amenities. A total of $473,000 will be spent on landscaping and upgrades.
Investing in our community...
BUDGET WRAP
Ph 1300 79 49 29 | [email protected] | www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au 7
Budget in Brief Protecting our environment
Council has committed $500,000 for the implementation of recommendations from the Shoreline Erosion Management Plan that will identify significant coastal erosion issues, develop and evaluate options for erosion protection and management, and facilitate community input on coastal erosion issues.
A further $325,000 has been allocated for foreshore restoration works and $158,000 for environmental initiatives, with $172,000 allocated to coastal jetties, boat ramps, boardwalks and piers.
The Environment Levy will secure $1.2 million for Council to enhance biodiversity including habitat, bushland, greenspace, waterways, catchments and coastal ecosystems.
Encouraging new business
Council is actively encouraging new businesses and industries to make the Fraser Coast region their home.
• Tourism Fraser Coast will receive $255,000 for tourism promotion activities.
• Council will contribute $25,000 to the Economic Development and Enterprise Collaboration Unit at the USQ, to be spent on research to guide economic diversification and investment decisions.
• $200,000 has been allocated to continue work in business attraction and regional economic development projects.
Protecting our community
Council has allocated $329,000 in capital and operational expenditure to support and implement an effective disaster management planning and response mechanism.
The funds include an allocation of $30,000 for an automated flood search system to help identify flood affected properties in regional areas and financial assistance and support for the region’s seven SES groups.
Fraser Coast road users can expect a smoother ride as a result of the 2011/12 Budget.The $20.21 million roads investment includes:
• $4.53 million on resurfacing and gravel resheeting;
• $4.20 million on trunk road infrastructure;
• $2.69 million for road upgrades and construction works;
• $2.54 million for rural roads;
• $1.04 million on kerb and channelling;
• $0.98 million on footpath and bikeway improvements; and
• $0.55 million on public transport and carparks.
Drainage construction works also remain a priority, with $2.85 million earmarked in 2011/12.
Rural roads will benefit with $2.54 million allocated for upgrades including:
• $893,688 for rural road rehabilitation;
• $100,000 for Castles Road;
• $421,800 for Chapel Road;
• $670,000 for Craignish Road to Karraschs Road;
• $200,000 for Old Coach Road;
• $100,000 for Crawford Road;
• $80,000 for Karraschs Road;
• $80,000 for Walkers Point Road;
• $725,000 has been committed to gravel road resheeting, resurfacing and sealing.
Where the money is going...
Where the money came from...
BUDGET WRAP
$20 million investment in roads network
8 Fraser Coast Regional Council NEWS July - October 2011 - Budget edition
Annual rates notices should land in letterboxes soon but this year a new split payment option will help ease the burden on household budgets.The changes come in response to community concerns about the impact of rising prices, rising interest rates and the economic climate on household budgets.
Ongoing feedback has also indicated that some ratepayers find it hard to budget for a one-off payment.
Council will issue its rates notices annually (i.e. General Rates, Waste Charges, Environmental Levy and Fire Levy) but will now offer three payment options. They are:
1. Annual Upfront 10% Discount a 10% discount on total rates if they are paid within 45 days of the notice being issued;
2. Two Instalments 5% Discount a discount on total rates if paid in two instalments, i.e. first payment within 45 days of rates notice issue and second payment within 225 days
3. Four Instalments Ratepayers will be able to pay their rates in four instalments without incurring penalty interest. Ratepayers who choose to pay this way are not eligible for a discount.
Council has delivered a modest increase in the general rates revenue of 5.4% in the 2011/12 Budget, which is below the Local Government Associations of Queensland’s expected increase of 7%.
This means an average general rate increase of $56 per ratepayer per year. Total rates and charges have increased by an average of $2.75 per week after discounts.
To minimise the impact on pensioners, Council will provide $1.7 million in concessions to the region’s 11,000 pensioners with all pensioners (both single and married) eligible for a $150 concession.
This is in addition to the State Government Pension Concession, for which pensioners can also apply.
Ratepayers will also notice that water and sewerage access charges will no longer appear on the annual rates notice (see story below).
New options to pay rates
Water access charges will no longer appear on annual rates notices.Instead, they will be included on water and sewerage bills sent out three times a year - in October, February and June.
Wide Bay Water Corporation CEO Peter Scott said the change offered the advantage of smaller, staggered payments and gave people more time to save or invest their cash rather than paying a year in advance.
Discounts of 7.5% on each bill will be available to customers who pay by the due dates.
One kilolitre (one thousand litres of water) supplied by WBWC will now be priced at $1.43 for the 2011/12 year.
The water access charge for residential customers will be $407 per year.
The sewerage access charge will be $646 in Hervey Bay and $593 in Maryborough.
WBWC is required by legislation to equalise the access charges across its service area and will look to achieve that in the 2012/13 year.
Sewerage access charges have risen more in Maryborough this year than Hervey Bay to help achieve this. The increase also reflects the necessary spending required to upgrade aging infrastructure in Maryborough to ensure essential services for the future.
Contact Wide Bay Water on 1300 808 888 for further information.
Water billing changes
BUDGET WRAP
Council servicesCouncil provides a broad range of services across the region from…Greeting our visitors: Over 1 million people visit the Fraser Coast every year by road, air and train. Council services over 162,000 passengers’ movements through the region’s airport annually and meets and greets 83,500 visitors through its four Visitor Information Centres and 79,320 patrons at its four caravan parks.
Responding to and communicating with the community: Council’s Customer Service Centres in Maryborough, Hervey Bay and Tiaro handle 115,000 customer service enquiries annually, and 210,000 people visit Council’s website seeking information about Council services.
A learning experience: Council libraries issue 946,531 books per annum to the region’s 43,000 library members.
Enjoying a cultural experience: Over 28,000 patrons visit and enjoy a cultural experience at Council’s two Art Galleries and heritage precincts, with another 17,500 patrons enjoying a show at the Brolga Theatre.
Relaxing in our parks and open spaces: Council spends $7.91 million on mowing and maintaining the region’s 251 parks, open space and recreational facilities, in which families and friends can play, exercise and socialise.
Taking a splash: Over 230,000 recreational and competitive swimmers visit and enjoy a swim at Council’s two aquatic facilities annually.
Investing in our economy: Council is one of the largest employers and business consumers on the Fraser Coast, spending $111 million annually.
Getting rid of rubbish: Council spends $12.2 million on waste collection, recycling and landfill management at its 10 landfill and transfer station sites across the region.
Ph 1300 79 49 29 | [email protected] | www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au 9
How to read your rates notice
BUDGET WRAP
Rates Enquiries:Council’s contact details for enquiries regarding your rates notice and payment options.
Property Number:Please quote your property number when enquiring about your rate notice.
Total Rates and Charges Due:If your account is overdue, the total amount of the rates and charges due is subject to 11% interest compounding daily. Please contact Council to obtain an updated amount.
Instalment Options:Option to pay by four instalment dates without incurring penalty interest charges.
Discount options for early payment:1. Pay one annual upfront payment by the discount date and receive a 10% discount.2. Pay two instalments by the instalment discount date and receive a total 5% discount. Note:• A Discount on your rates is offered if payment is received by the due date shown.• Discount is not applied to Fire Levy Charges, Environmental Levy, Waste Management Levy and Change of Ownership/Name Fee.• Discount on rates will be allowed if the payment of current and all overdue rates is received by the due date.
Valuation:The site value of your land is determined by the Department of Environment & Resource Management.
Rates and Charges Details:Your annual rate charge is made up of:• General Rate – based on the site value of your land multiplied by the relevant differential rating category. (Minimum rates apply – refer to Rate Schedule attached to your Rates Notice)• Environmental Levy• Waste Service Change and/ or Waste Management Levy• State Government Fire Levy (collected on behalf of QFRS)• Change of Ownership/Name Levy (where applicable)
Payment Options:• Bpay reference numbers for internet or telephone payments from your bank account.• Post Billbay numbers for: - online payments - www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au - by phone using Mastercard or Visa - in person at any Australia Post office• In person at any bank using the detachable bank deposit slip• Direct to Council: - by post - at Customer Service Centres - by phone 1300 79 49 29
% General rate levy The focus of the 2011/12 Budget is to invest in the future prosperity of the Fraser Coast.
Council is working to develop initiatives to raise the awareness of the region as a desirable place in which to live, work and visit.
The key strategies to make this happen are:
• Building community infrastructure• Promoting our vibrant community• Developing economic prosperity• Protecting our unique natural
environment• Ensuring fiscal responsibility
Below is a breakdown of where the rates funds come from within the Fraser Coast region.
10 Fraser Coast Regional Council NEWS July - October 2011 - Budget edition
Funding available
In Brief...Shoreline plan As the Shoreline Erosion Management Plan project progresses, Council has developed a more detailed understanding and measurement of the risk to the coastline.
This will allow management options to be formulated according to the nature of the various sections of the shoreline.
Visit www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au to complete an online SEMP questionnaire (Your Community/Environment/Beaches and Coastal Management).
Flood update Work to repair roads damaged by the floods in January and prolonged wet season continues.
The flood repair bill topped $3.1 million at the end of May.
Council has applied to the Federal Government under the National Disaster Relief and Recovery Arrangements for $12.3 million to repair damaged roads and infrastructure.
So far Council has received $2.2 million in NDRRA funding.
New lease for Cricket Association The Maryborough District Cricket Association has been given a new 20-year lease on its grounds in Ariadne Street. The association has leased the grounds since 1968; the current lease was due to expire in 2014.
Grow your garden with mulch Council encourages all residents to reduce, reuse and recycle waste products.
As part of Council’s recycling program, there are three grades of mulch available for purchase through our recycling centre and landfills.
Visit www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au (Services / Waste Services) for availability of mulch and loading times.
Residents have access to a number of Council grant schemes which encourage and promote healthy lifestyle choices and foster connections and networks between people, communities facilities and services.• The Regional Arts Development Fund
(RADF) supports professional and emerging professional artists and arts practitioners. Round 1 opened on July 1 and closes on August 31.
• Council provides financial assistance, to sports people competing in individual or team events at a state, national or international level, through the Financial Assistance
to Sportspersons Scheme. It runs on a first in - first served basis until the allocated funds are expended. Applications opened on July 1 and can be submitted throughout the year.
• Incorporated organisations can apply for up to $5000 to support projects and events beneficial to the region. The Community and Events Support Grant Scheme opens for applications in July and December. Round 1 supports activities and events taking place between November and April; Round 2 between May and October.
Visit www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au (Your Community / Grants) for applications forms and eligibility criteria.
To celebrate the contribution seniors make to Fraser Coast communities a number of activities have been planned.The first activity will be the Seniors Expo at the Nikenbah Baptist Church hall on Friday 12 August.
To say thank you to seniors, free Mayoral morning teas will be held at:
• Tiaro Memorial Hall Tuesday 16 August, 9.30am
• Hervey Bay Botanic Gardens Elizabeth Street, Urangan Monday 22 August, 10am
• Maryborough City Hall Tuesday 23 August, 9.30am
and a Mayoral lunch at:
• Woocoo Community Hall, Sunday 14 August, 11.30am.
Visit www.frasercoastevents.com.au for a full list of Seniors Week activities
Seniors Week Activities
The Disability Achievement Awards will be presented at a gala ceremony at Maryborough’s Brolga Theatre on 20 September.They are designed to recognise individuals, groups and organisations that have contributed to improving the quality of life of people with a disability, and recognise people with a disability who have made considerable individual achievements.
The awards are a highlight of Disability Action Week, which runs from 18 to 24 September.
You can nominate an individual, community group or employer you think is worthy of recognition. Nominations close 19 August 2011.
Visit www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au for guidelines, nomination booklet and the schedule of activities for Disability Action Week.
Disability Awards
Ph 1300 79 49 29 | [email protected] | www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au 11
Time to see the whales – and save! You are invited to the world’s closest and most exciting whale show - appearing live in your backyard from July to November.
People come from all over the globe to Hervey Bay for its incredible whale watching encounters so make sure that this year you witness one of nature’s most awe-inspiring shows.
Take advantage of discounts of up to 50% from whale watch operators through Fraser Coast Staycations – just for locals and their visiting friends and relatives.
The festival on Saturday August 6 will be over 12 hours of non-stop entertainment and includes:
Ocean of Fun, 10.00am – 5.30pm Seafront Oval, Pialba Oceans of Fun is dedicated to little kids and big kids at heart with round the clock stage shows at the McDonald’s Kids Festival, workshop, educational talks and a Side Show Alley.
Illumination Parade, 6.00pm – 7.30pm Esplanade Don’t miss the amazing spectacle as a sea of illuminated creatures help celebrate the wonderful marine eco system of the Fraser Coast.
The theme of this year’s much loved Fraser Coast Chronicle Illumination Parade is ‘Where Nature Comes Alive”.
Urangan High’s Sonic Blast showcase will
Diversity on menu at Seafood Festival
All new members who sign up to Fraser Coast
Staycations by 30 August will go in the draw to win an exclusive Whale
Watch Package valued at $700 including two nights accommodation
at Mantra Hervey Bay and a family whale watching pass on MV Mikat.
There will also be a membership draw to win a double pass on Quick Cat II valued at $220.
Visit www.ourfrasercoast.com.au for full terms and conditions, to enter the
draw and for the latest whale watch discounts
WINWIN
WIN
Fraser Coast Council has partnered with Tourism Queensland, Tourism Fraser Coast and local tourism operators to promote this year’s whale watching season through a campaign called “Harvey and the Humpbacks”.
provide a great line up of pre-entertainment at Scarness Park from 4pm to 6pm. After the parade head down to Seafront Oval to find out the winners and watch the early fireworks.
Live Whale Aid Concert, 10.00am – 10.30pm Seafront Oval, Pialba There will be a whale song for everyone at Seafront Oval thanks to Lanson Civil and Wide Bay Sound with 10 hours of awesome music from a long line up of Australian artists playing all original music all day and two large screens adding to the atmosphere.
The exciting entertainment program includes a 50/50 mix of local Fraser Coast musicians and invited performers, as well as a number of presentations by our conservation partners. The concert’s fiery finale will include fire twirling and stunning illuminated performance art.
visit www.herveybaywhalefestival.com.au
Festival goers will have their favourite Hervey Bay seafood served up on a plate, on a stick or in a cup at the Fraser Lions Hervey Bay Seafood Festival in Fishermens Park Urangan on Sunday 14 August from 10am to 4pm. There will be over 30 different seafood dishes on the menu, including coconut prawns, wild catch cuttlefish fingers, marinated Moreton Bay bugs, and garlic and coriander prawns.
The festival program includes local musical entertainment, wineries, stalls and interactive displays by the Queensland seafood industry and the GBRMPA Reef Guardian.
The Hervey Bay Seafood Festival is one of the many regional events proudly supported by Fraser Coast Regional Council.
Visit www.herveybayseafoodfestival.com.au for more information
There could be no bigger reason for a celebration than the Humpback Whale – and this year’s Hervey Bay Whale Festival will be an exciting mix of events to raise awareness of its plight while celebrating its annual return to our waters.
Saturday 6 August
News from your CouncilPh 1300 79 49 29 | [email protected] | www.frasercoast.qld.gov.au
POSTAGE PAIDAUSTRALIA
AUGUST1 - 6 August Maryborough Eisteddfod
6 August Hervey Bay Whale Festival www.herveybaywhalefestival.com.au
12 August Fraser Coast Seniors Expo, Hervey Bay
12 August - 3 September Seniors Week Activities
13 August Burrum District Garden Club Tombola
14 August Fraser Lions Hervey Bay Seafood Festival www.herveybayseafoodfestival.com.au
19 - 21 August Wide Bay & Fraser Coast Home Show and Caravan & Camping Expo
20 August Glenwood Swap Meet, Car and Bike Show & Variety Concert
20 August Book Fest and Plant Day, Howard
21 August Pet Walk, Hervey Bay
28 August An Afternoon with Gilbert & Sullivan, Brolga Theatre
SEPTEMBER10 - 11 September RACQ Technology Challenge Maryborough www.technologychallenge.com.au
10 - 11 September Rotary’s BIG Weekend, Hervey Bay
17 September Burrum District Community Centre Swap Meet, Torbanlea
17 September Dickabram Bridge 125th Birthday Celebration, Miva
23-25 September Fraser Coast Arts, Craft & Wellbeing Expo, Hervey Bay
24 September Burrum District Garden Club Flower Show, Howard
24 September Scooter/Wheelchair Convoy World Record Attempt, Hervey Bay
24 September - 9 October Maryborough Masters Games
25 September Fraser Lions Pier Festival, Urangan
OCTOBER6 - 8 October Maryborough Heritage CraftFest, Maryborough
8 October The Man the Sea Saw, Brolga Theatre
8 October Mary River Festival, Petrie Park, Tiaro
15 October FCAC Spring Fair, Hervey Bay
16 October Tour de Bay Charity Bike Ride
22 October Torbanlea Picnic Races, Torbanlea
20 - 23 October Munna Creek Country Music Festival, Munna Creek
21 - 22 October Shakespeare on the Bay Festival - A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Hervey Bay
22 - 23 October Lifeline Book Fest, Maryborough
29 - 30 October Tiaro Landcare Catch and Release Fishing Competition, Tiaro
Get the word out Submit your community event
for free at www.frasercoastevents.com.au
Date ClaimersGlenwood Swap Meet Saturday 20 August Head to the small community of Glenwood on Saturday 20 August for the region’s largest swap meet.
This award winning annual event includes a car and bike show, variety concert and children’s activities and rides.
Dogs Day Out and Pet Walk Sunday 21 August Pooches will be on parade at the annual Dogs Day Out and Pet Walk from 9am to noon on Sunday, 21 August, at Urangan’s Dayman Park.
A major prize draw for a $1,000 plasma TV (sponsored by Nissen Hervey Bay) will be drawn. Entry forms will be available on the day.
Pet owners will be able to have their cats and dogs microchipped with the National Pet Register from 9am to 3pm on the day.
Visit www.petregister.com.au/events to book in your pet to be microchipped.
Petrie Park Fishing Competition and Mary River Festival Saturday 8 October
The banks of the Mary River will be bursting with fishing and great family fun in October. On 8 October, join in the Mary River Festival for craft and canoe racing. Dry land events include live music, face-painting and games.
Over the weekend of the 29-30 October the river will again be the focus for the Tiaro Landcare Catch and Release Fishing Competition.
Torbanlea Picnic Races Saturday 22 October
The best picnic races by a country mile, the Torbanlea Race Day on Saturday 22 October will have everything from foot races, tug-o-war, celebrity events, fashion of the field, and of course racing from 9am. There will also be stalls, food, entertainment and children’s activities.
The event is expanding this year with the Burrum Recreation Reserve open for onsite camping in the week leading up to the race.
See the past and future combine at the RACQ Technology Challenge Maryborough on 10-11 September. Visit the Technology Expo, featuring interactive displays and experiences.
Watch teams of students race human powered vehicles for 24 hours around a challenging inner city street circuit in the feature event. These machines are only one facet of an alternative future on show by thousands of
For all your information about what’s on in the region
Queensland’s most inventive students. Programmable robots dance, race and rescue, solar boats and cars harness the power of the sun, pushcarts race around obstacle courses and endurance relays and the small hand made jet-propelled dragsters race along at 140kms.
Visit www.technologychallenge.com.au for more information.
REGULAR EVENTS AND MARKETSSunday in the Park Maryborough - last Sunday of every month
Music in the Park Hervey Bay - first Sunday of every month
Heritage Markets Maryborough - every Thursday
Regional markets For locations, dates and times visit www.frasercoastevents.com.au