state of the - uralla shire of the...profile ‐‐‐‐ aboriginal lands cleanup project 14...

2011 ‐ 2013

State of the Environment Report

FINAL VERSION – November 2013

Uralla Shire Council ‐ State of the Environment Report 2011‐2013 1

CONTENTS Page

Introduction 2

Community Strategic Plan ‐ Goals 4

Food Control for Commercial Premises 7

Uralla Community Based Heritage Study 2013 8

Performance Monitoring Report 9

PROFILE ‐‐‐‐ Uralla Shire Council Biodiversity Study 10

Environmentors – Environmental Waste Education 11

Love Food Hate Waste 12

PROFILE ‐‐‐‐ Waste to Art 13

PROFILE ‐‐‐‐ Aboriginal Lands Cleanup Project 14

Natural Landscapes on Council Managed Lands 15

PROFILE ‐‐‐‐ Racecourse Lagoon 16

Council Operations 17

PROFILE ‐‐‐‐ Environmental Committee 18

Protecting and Managing Natural Landscapes 19

PROFILE ‐‐‐‐ Community Projects and Partnerships 20

New England Weeds Authority 21

PROFILE ‐‐‐‐ Koala Food Planting, Rocky Creek 22

Council Sustainability Using Resources 23

PROFILE ‐‐‐‐ Solar Energy Efficiency Projects 24

Sustainable Use of Resources 25

PROFILE ‐‐‐‐ Uralla Op Shop 26

References 27

Further Reading 28


INTRODUCTION

Uralla Shire crosses a geographic transition from the New England Tablelands landscape in the east to the edge of the Western Slopes and Plains. This complex and beautiful landscape covers physical, social and administrative boundaries that characterise specific environmental assets and issues. A comprehensive examination of these issues, their causes and the responses required to control them, is beyond the scope of this report. Additionally, Council is only one of many agencies with responsibilities for managing the quality and health of our environment. This report acknowledges that without partnerships with our community and other State and Federal agencies, Council would be unable to provide the levels of environmental management that we currently maintain.

This report begins with a short overview of the main types of environmental problems and showcases the responses which Uralla Shire Council, in partnership with our residents, community groups and other NSW Government agencies, is implementing in order to reduce the impact of these problems, and in some cases, make our lifestyles more sustainable.

Environment

Uralla Shire is home to a number of threatened species and ecological communities. Unfortunately the rate of vegetation loss, and the rate at which species are being lost through clearance for agriculture and development are not ameliorating. There are currently 418 protected and threatened species of plants and animals, and eight ecological communities in the Shire. Two of the eight communities are considered critically endangered under Federal legislation.

The health of the river catchments, climate factors and point source pollution all determine the availability and quality of water within our natural water systems. Some of the issues include the salinisation of rivers and creeks in the catchment, diffuse run off of agricultural products and chemicals, turbidity of streams in the lower reaches of the catchment, the threat of algal blooms, and soil erosion.

There is insufficient information available locally to make a determination regarding the actual impact of the very wide reaching and long‐term changes imposed by climate change. Weather patterns are already changing while changes to fire, drought and extreme weather regimes are anticipated to occur in the near to long‐term future. Clearly this will have implications for social and community considerations and will also have implications for our agricultural industry in operation within the Shire. Maintaining the health of our landscapes will support its capability for our agricultural economy, the local economy and the social structure of our communities.

The most familiar example of how our lifestyles impact on the quality and health of our environment is waste generation. Waste production and management issues are directly related to population growth and our economic prosperity. The environmental and health impacts of waste occur across the life cycle of those waste materials and include the extraction and manufacture of the material along with those issues concerning its disposal. The waste disposal process itself has implications for air and water quality issues and land degradation. There is an increasing cost to local communities who bear the burden of waste management and disposal.


Development

Council takes pride in its development performance over 2011‐2013. By taking a proactive approach and having set realistic timeframes, Council has increased its complying development approval levels to meet the NSW Government's planning targets. This has led to a much quicker approval turn around time. Council is one of the top 10 councils across the state for the percentage of complying development achieved overall. The community have played a large part in this achievement, as they have willingly participated and are willing to work with Council to achieve better outcomes for all.

Waste and Recycling

The Uralla Shire Council aims to increase recycling rates and reduce waste to landfill in line with State targets. Council currently offers the following waste services: kerbside waste in 140L bins, kerbside recycling in comingled 240L bins, drop off recycling points at two landfills, three recycling stations, kerbside commercial recycling collection, voluntary kerbside garden organics collection in Uralla township only, second hand items suitable for reuse and sale (Uralla Landfill and Recycling Facility), participation in annual Chemical Collection, batteries, oil (engine and cooking), fluorescent lighting, sharps, chemical drums (DrumMuster), e‐waste, ferrous and non‐ferrous metal, delivered non‐putrescible garden organic waste, wood waste (mix of virgin and manufactured 2nd hand timbers), Virgin Excavated Natural Material (VENM) and Excavated Natural Material (ENM), tyres (all sizes), mattresses, dead animal disposal, and asbestos disposal (Uralla Landfill only).

The levels of recycling are dependent on residents’ participation in source separation at home or in the business, and the extent to which residents and businesses sort waste at the Waste Management Facilities. The Uralla Shire Council does not charge for green waste, metal waste, op‐shop suitable items, or domestic sorted waste (waste with no recyclables in it).

Uralla Shire operates a licensed landfill in Uralla, and unlicensed landfill in Bundarra, and from July 2013 a waste transfer station in Kingstown. There are also recycling stations located in the township of Bundarra, and in Kentucky. Uralla Shire Council undertakes all kerbside collection services in Uralla Shire, and has the contract for Walcha Council domestic kerbside collection services. Uralla Shire Council owns and operates a recycling facility (MRF) in Uralla. All recyclable material collected at kerbside in Walcha, and in Uralla Shire are processed at the Uralla MRF. The MRF processes commercial recyclables from Uralla Shire and Walcha also.

The Uralla Shire Landfill and Recycling Facility operates a small Op‐Shop, owned and run internally by Council. Computer Bank New England (CBNE) are a not‐for profit organisation that for the last five years have been recovering materials from all forms of e‐waste. CBNE integrate their activities into the National Computer & Television Recycling Scheme and assist Waste Services and load PCs and TVs into stillages ready for collection.

Council is one of the 13 member Councils who make up the Northern Inland Regional Waste Group (NIRW). The NIRW vision is to support regional collaboration across the northern inland through the consolidation of a regional approach to waste management and resource recovery. This leads to the improved provision of services, infrastructure education and measured cost efficiencies for all. Council is always looking to develop new resource recovery opportunities. It is important in developing new opportunities that existing infrastructure and human resources be considered along with potential markets and transport costs.


COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN ‐ GOALS

The priorities reflected in the Uralla Shire Council Community Strategic Plan are the culmination of community ideas and aspirations, key Council priorities, and the legislative requirements of NSW Government. The Plan is a 10 year strategic document which is updated every four years. The Plan provides the Community and Council with a framework to inform our decisions. The State of the Environment Report will be produced once every four years, with updates included in the annual reporting processes for Council under the Integrated Planning and Reporting structure. The next comprehensive State of Environment Report is planned for 2016.

Provide balanced and environmentally sensitive development.

Sub‐strategy:

Develop a policy framework, land use and settlement structure that recognises existing uses and makes provision for future growth.

Actions:

• Review the New England Development Strategy on a regular basis.

• Be reactive to legislative change and community expectations.

• Review strategic policy to ensure support for positive, sustainable planning objectives to support balanced and environmentally sensitive growth.

Coordinate and plan resource recovery under the Waste and Recycling Management Plan 2013 to 2018.

Sub‐strategy:

Develop a policy framework to deliver high quality waste and recycling services to the community.

Actions:

• Draft and implement a Waste and Recycling Management Plan in line with State waste and resource recovery requirements.


Protect and appropriately manage our natural landscapes. Sub‐strategy:

Protect and appropriately manage significant natural features, waterways, and other landscapes on Council managed lands.

Actions:

• Review the Uralla Sub‐Catchment Management Plan.

• Appoint the services of a Bush Regenerator.

• Implement Management Plans for Racecourse Lagoon, Bundarra Nature Park, Mt Mutton and High Conservation Value Roadside Vegetation Reserves.

• Apply for external funding.

• Ensure that council operations continually improve on best practice standards for environmental management.

Scaly Button Daisies

Nest box for native wildlife in a Stringybark

Protect and appropriately manage our natural landscapes.

Sub‐strategy:

Support and partner with the community and other agencies to conserve, protect and rehabilitate natural features, waterways, and other landscapes (ecological and agro‐ecological) across the Shire.

Actions:

• Work with community and government organisations to implement on‐ground projects.

• Support the New England Weeds Authority in the control and eradication of noxious weeds around the Shire.

• Engage the community in activities that generate learning and appreciation for healthy ecosystems.

• Celebrate community projects and achievements.


Sustainably use our resources. Sub‐strategy:

Prepare and implement a sustainability framework for Council.

Actions:

• Coordinate the plan through the Environmental Committee.

• Participate in sustainability support networks and programs.

• Implement actions/projects as recommended by local environmental groups and community individuals.

• Communicate Council’s achievements and programs to the community.

Sustainably use our resources. Sub‐strategy:

Support continued improvement in sustainable resource use, along with other sustainable lifestyle practices, across our community

Actions:

• Support the work of the U3CF community reference panel.

• Implement actions or projects in partnership with the community.

• Support school and other education centre sustainability programs by providing tools/materials and direct financial aid as funding permits.

• Host community education programs that increase awareness regarding sustainable resource use and sustainable lifestyle practices.

• Provide information to the Uralla Shire business community regarding sustainable resource use and lifestyle practices.

• Provide resources to local libraries.

• Promote industries within the Shire that improve soil carbon sequestration and support produce for local use.


FOOD CONTROL FOR COMMERCIAL PREMISES

Photo: Lynne Walker

The preparation and handling of food is important to not only the NSW Food Authority but to the reputation and future of these businesses. Be it a hot chook from a supermarket, a meal and drink with friends at a restaurant, café, club or hotel, or a light snack on‐the‐go from a bakery, takeaway shop or market stall ‐ all have safe food handling requirements.

All businesses which sell, prepare, service, package, transport and store food items are required to be registered with the NSW Food Authority and to have a nominated Food Safety Supervisor for each food premises.

COUNCIL INVOLVEMENT The Uralla Shire Council has been appointed by the NSW Food Authority to undertake a food inspection role of retail food businesses within the Shire.

This means that Council is required to carry out routine inspections of commercial food premises to ensure compliance with regulations that require food premises to maintain premises and equipment in good repair, demonstrate thorough cleaning practices, ensure correct storage of foods, and that staff receive training. All commercial food premises operating within the Shire are required to be inspected by Council on an annual basis. Inspections include assessment of the following areas:

• Structural condition of the premises

• Cleanliness of premises and equipment

• Food handler's level of hygiene

• Food handling practices

• Food storage

COUNCIL ACTIVITIES During the reporting period, Council has reviewed our procedures in relation to food premises controls. Council’s Food Premises Policy has been redeveloped in consultation with the food premises within the Shire and is now available from Council’s website.

Council has undertaken an inspection of all food premises and is pleased with the response, cooperation and participation of food premises owners. Food premises operators have taken pride in their premises and the results of the inspections and the lack of complaints received during the reporting period attest to this.

ACTIONS

• Undertake food premises inspections.

• Review Council Food Premises Policy.

• Implement new fee regime in consultation with affected food premises.

• Provision of educational material to premises operators.

• Development of a food safety kit

• Annual report submitted to the NSW Food Authority.

CSP STRATEGIES

• A healthy community is encouraged and promoted.

• Food operators meet regulatory food standards.

• Inspections are increased and food standards are improved.

INDICATORS

• 32 food premises inspections undertaken.

• 31 food premises satisfactory.

• 32 food premises had food safety advisor certificates.

• 0 complaints.


URALLA COMMUNITY BASED HERITAGE STUDY 2013

Deeargee Woolshed, Gostwyck

In 2011, Council received a $140,000 grant under the LEP Acceleration Fund from the NSW Department of Planning and Infrastructure. The funds were allocated for Biodiversity ($100,000) and Heritage ($40,000). Council undertook to complete the Community Based Heritage Study as the heritage component of the grant funding.

The aim of the Study was to investigate places of heritage significance that demonstrate the history of Uralla. The study explains why the items are significant and recommends ways to manage and conserve this significance.

The Uralla Community Based Heritage Study 2013 contains:

• A history of the area using the NSW historic themes (Part 1 completed in 2010).

• Research and field work that describe the identified heritage items and a condition survey for each heritage item.

• Summary inventory sheets for each significant heritage item.

• Study‐wide and specific heritage item management and promotional recommendations.

The Study also provides information to support:

• The community’s sense of identity, including our beginnings, the present and our potential.

• The future management of heritage items.

• Education programs to raise awareness about heritage assets.

• Community engagement and sense of ownership of its heritage assets.

• Heritage tourism strategies that can generate business in the local area, and target a range of special heritage places that Council can support and promote to visitors.

• Recommendations for a Council Cultural Plan.

THE PLANNING PROPOSAL The planning proposal will amend the Uralla Local Environmental Plan 2012 by listing 210 properties as ‘items of environmental heritage’ and making changes to Heritage Conservation Area “C03” being the Uralla Commercial Precinct, and by including a further three precincts as Heritage Conservation Areas. This will affect 83 properties, some of which will not be listed as ‘items of environmental heritage’. The planning proposal is currently being drafted.

INDICATORS

• Listed 210 properties as “items of environmental heritage”

• Listing 278 items in the State Heritage Inventory.

• 21 submissions received with four objections.

ACTIONS

• Completed the Uralla Community Based Heritage Study.

• Adopted the recommendations and consulted with owners and the community.

• Listed all items in the State Heritage Inventory hosted by BNSW Heritage with full web access.

• Preparation of the Planning Proposal has commenced.

CSP STRATEGIES

• The overall aesthetic value and heritage of the Shire is protected.

• Implement the Uralla Shire Council Heritage Plan.

• Promote collaboration between the Heritage Advisor and the Community Heritage Plan.


PERFORMANCE MONITORING REPORT

The NSW Local Development Performance Monitoring Report for 2011‐2012 was released in March 2013. It provides comprehensive statistics about development in NSW, including annual information on the volume, value and type of development and Council processing times. On a state‐wide and regional basis:

• There were four councils that had 50% or more of their determinations processed as complying development. Uralla Shire Council ranked 7th in the state with 45%.

• USC ranked 7th in the regional councils with the highest percentage of Development Application (DA) determinations by Councillors (19.3%).

The Uralla Shire Council is classified as being a Group 1 council which are either largely agriculture in nature with a population of 5,001 – 10,000 or remote with a population of 3,001 – 20,000.

Council’s performance over the 2011/2012 year compared with the 2010/2011 year:

• DA determinations were down by 10 applications.

• Complying Development Certificates (CDCs) issued were down by one application.

• USC was below the Group 1 average by 32 DA applications but was above the group average for CDC approvals by 25.

• The number of DA amendments were down by four.

• Construction Certificates issued were down by 18.

• Occupation Certificates issued were up by 16.

• The total estimated Approved Development Value was down by $2,000.

• Complying Development Value was down by $1.7m.

• 14% of the total development type was for alterations and additions (State 21%), new dwellings 16% (State 25%) and commercial/ retail/ office was 16% (State 9%). The most significant increase was in commercial/ retail/ office which has increased by 10%.

• Council had its first applications (two in number) submitted under private certification.

• CDC Gross determination times were down, with the mean gross time dropping by four days. USC’s mean gross determination time is one day below the group and nine days below the state. The DA gross determination time was not changed.

INDICATORS

• Development Approval numbers.

• Number of customer service complaints.

ACTIONS • Completed the data

collection for the 2012‐2013 year and submitted it to the Department of Planning & Infrastructure to be collated in their performance Monitoring Report 2012‐2013 to be released in early 2014.

CSP STRATEGIES

• Uralla’s natural beauty and distinct natural environment are protected for future generations.

• Provide balanced and environmentally sensitive development.


PROFILE

URALLA SHIRE COUNCIL BIODIVERSITY STRATEGY

In 2011 Council received funding of $100,000 from the NSW Department of Planning and Infrastructure’s LEP Acceleration Fund. The funds were allocated for a Biodiversity Study with the following primary aims and objectives:

• To conduct an ecological, aboriginal and bushfire assessment in relation to certain lands and verify their suitability, or otherwise for future residential or rural residential purposes.

• To review currently available data and reporting frameworks within the context of this suitability analysis.

• To provide concise and realistic recommendations including, but not limited to, the suitability of the lands for future residential or rural residential uses.

• To provide information in a format that is suitable for incorporation into a future Planning Proposal which will aim to rezone land(s) to either higher or lower order land use.

A major project deliverable was that the outcomes from this project form the basis of a

Stinkhorn Fungus

strategic framework for the development of a future Planning Proposal for Uralla LEP.

Council considered the draft report in January 2013 and it was determined that the draft Strategy was a good, high‐quality resource document but did not have any planning outcomes as required. A bridging report was requested to consider the development potential of land within the study areas for potential rural/residential land use, based on the results of the draft Strategy.

The bridging report was to use the existing Strategy as a resource document to support some planning outcomes that could be incorporated into a planning proposal for each area. This was completed with extra research being identified as being needed prior to a full planning proposal being prepared for each area.

Council set the immediate strategic land use planning direction in March 2012. The Rocky River area was the immediate area for strategic investigation followed by Kentucky. Council also resolved to commence a heritage study for the Rocky River Gold Mining Conservation Area.

Leaf Eating Beetle caterpillars

A native Skink

PROFILE


ENVIRO MENTORS – WASTE EDUCATION FOR PRIMARY SCHOOLS

Enviro Mentors (formally known as Waste Watchers) is a targeted environmental education program for children in schools. The program has been developed and is run by Keep Australia Beautiful. The program is fully subsidised by Council and has been available each year to primary schools in the Shire since 2011.

The Enviro Mentors program offers a range of modules which schools can choose from. The most popular modules are “Close the Loop” and “In the Bin”.

‘’Close the Loop” involves interactive games which allow students to find out what new items are made from recycled

materials. There is a focus on local services, recycling to reduce waste going to landfill, and emphasising saving resources.

“In the Bin” enables students to gain knowledge of local waste issues, including the appropriate bin to place waste items in and the environmental implication of littering, which can be taken home and imparted to parents.

Uralla Students have come up with the following waste reduction ideas during Enviro Mentor sessions:

• Make a compost bin at home

• Feed scraps to the chooks

• Tell Mum “put it in the yellow bin”

• Make a worm farm

• Wash the recyclable items before putting into the yellow bin

• Tell Mum and Dad to recycle

• Lots of creatures

• Put wrappers in the red bin

• Take rinsed chemical drums into DrumMuster

• Donate old toys to charities

• Recycling to conserve resources

• Don’t put plastic in bins

ACTIONS • Council contributes

towards subsidised environmental education programs run in schools across the Shire.

• School education programs are curriculum‐linked, of value to our schools and enjoyable for participants.

CSP STRATEGIES

• Change community attitudes from waste disposal to resource recovery, with recycling levels at State Best Averages.

• Focussed education on the benefits of recycling to target groups.

INDICATORS

• Schools visited and student participation over the past three years:

• 2011 ‐ four schools visited, 159 student particpants.




LOVE FOOD HATE WASTE

GREAT NEW ENGLAND COOK‐OFF The Great New England Cook‐Off encouraged the community to develop ideas of how to reduce household food waste and their weekly food bill.

Uralla Shire Council together with Walcha Council received funding of $14,725 from the NSW Office of Environment and Heritage as part of the NSW Love Food Hate Waste campaign.

The Great New England Cook‐Off was held at Uralla’s Thunderbolts Festival in October 2012. The Cook‐Off was a theatrical and fun event, where several residents put their best leftover recipes to the test.

COMMUNITY RECYCLING CHALLENGE The Community Recycling Challenge was an additional competition run concurrently with the Great New England Cook‐Off. The Recycling Challenge asked households to complete a weekly garbage survey measuring how much goes into their garbage bin.

They were asked to think about what is being thrown out and to work out ways to reduce their waste and change their “garbage” habits. Results were sent back to Council for a chance to win prizes. Participants reported an average of 30% reduction in waste as a consequence of introducing meal plans and their own recycling initiatives at home.

This project was held after the introduction of kerbside collected comingled 240L recycling in Uralla. Interest in Uralla was more about recycling and what can be recycled, while fewer questions were about food waste. There was difficulty in measuring the amount of food in general waste for this project, due to the nature of the operations at the landfill sites.

The most positive outcome of the Community Recycling Challenge is that the communities of Uralla and Walcha are talking about and thinking about waste and recycling.

INDICATORS

• Increase in recycling percentages.

• Reduction in per capita quantity to landfill.

ACTIONS

• Council to continue to engage their community to focus on waste and recycling issues.

CSP STRATEGIES

• Change community attitudes from waste disposal to resource recovery, with recycling levels at State Best Averages

• Continuing education by the Council, utilising Community Engagement and by continual reinforcement through Council newsletter and other media.


Ned Garrahy – “Rambo the Ram” WASTE TO ART

The Waste to Art competition provides an opportunity for all members of the community to creatively communicate and participate in the waste reduction message.

Waste to Art is open to all residents and schools located in participating Northern Inland Regional Waste (NIRW) Council member areas. Each Council in the NIRW area runs a competition and winners of the local competition then exhibit at the regional exhibition.

Waste to Art has received an overwhelming response from primary schools across the Shire over each year of the competition. The Uralla Shire Council offers generous prizes for winning entrants, to acknowledge the expertise, workmanship and effort invested in the pieces. Materials used in artwork include metal, plastics, polystyrene, paper, computer parts, ironing boards, washing machines, and even an exercise bike. In Waste to Art your imagination is your opportunity!

The Uralla Waste to Art competition is supported by local artists who share the passion for upcycling.

Senior Open Art Winner: Emma Schaffer “It’s a Dog’s Life”

“ It is wonderful to see the number of young artists becoming involved in Waste to Art. The junior section is always particularly spectacular! ”

‐ Mayor, Michael Pearce

PROFILE

Secondary Winner Art: Ben McKay ‐ “The Gremlin”

Open Winner Wearable Art: Chris Pyros “The Spartan”

Secondary Winner Wearable Art: Emma McKinnon “Wedding Dress”


ABORIGINAL LANDS CLEANUP PROJECT

The Uralla Shire Council received funding of $24,680 from the NSW EPA to clean up illegally dumped material on local Aboriginal lands.

The Uralla Shire Council worked closely with the Armidale Local Aboriginal Lands Council (ALALC) to plan and coordinate this project.

The Aboriginal Lands Cleanup project worked across two locations. The first location was the Old Kentucky Landfill. The Landfill was closed over 30 years ago and the land is now managed by ALALC. The closest landfill is located 12 km away in Uralla, and there has been some illegal dumping at the site since its closure. Dumped materials mainly consist of metal, tyres, and green waste.

The second location was Westend, a parcel of land at the end of Dumaresq Street in Uralla. This site is located in the town district of Uralla, in the south west section. This parcel of land holds great historical significance, and is particularly significant to a large number of local people who grew up on the site, or had family who had lived on the site.

Over 36 tonnes of waste material was removed from the Westend site. Due to the presence of asbestos in the material, it was disposed of as asbestos waste. This type of dumped material not only poses a threat to the environment but also to human health.

More than 40 tonnes of illegally dumped material was cleaned up as part of this NSW EPA funded project. This project involved contractors, Council staff and volunteer members of the community and required all parties to work together to achieve success. It is hoped that the two project locations can be used by the ALALC in further activities.

PROFILE


NATURAL LANDSCAPES ON COUNCIL MANAGED LANDS

Council manages an area of approximately 273 ha or 0.08% of the Shire which is a diverse and complex mix of rivers, and wetlands, parks and native bushland.

Parks and gardens are maintained primarily for their aesthetic and amenity value. Others are maintained for their social, cultural and environmental values, and require more particular management.

CROWN LANDS Council is the Crown Lands Trustee for the Mount Mutton Reservoir and Lookout, Racecourse Lagoon and Bundarra Downs Reserve (Nature Park). All sites are of particular interest in respect to their social and environmental values, and all are subject to a variety of environmental threats such as weeds and feral animals which have the potential to erode their natural health and condition.

Council has developed management plans which identify the works and investment required to maintain the ecological values of these areas.

ROADSIDE VEGETATION There were 16 High Conservation Value (HCV) Roadside Reserves identified in a 1996 survey of the Shire. Since that time, one site has been lost due to clearing and 11 others are severely threatened by Coolatai grass invasion. The presence of other weeds, firewood collection, clearing and inappropriate management are the main threats to the remaining sites.

Council was successful in obtaining an Environmental Trust grant to conduct works on the Linfield‐Enmore reserve in 2011. An allocation of internal funding in 2011 – 2012 allowed for bush regeneration work and the installation of signage at several high conservation value sites. Internal Council practices and policies are also under review.

BUSH REGENERATOR Council has appointed a Bush Regenerator. In 2012‐2013, the Bush Regeneration team treated 13,573 m2 of weeds in addition to that area treated by the New England Weeds Authority.

Training is available for volunteers who wish to participate in bush regeneration projects.

Bush Regenerator: Kate Boyd

ACTIONS • Improve Councils best

practices.

• Review the Uralla Sub‐Catchment Management Plan.

• Appoint a Bush Regenerator.

• Develop Management Plans.

• Secure Funding.

CSP STRATEGIES

• Protect and appropriately manage our natural landscapes.

• Protect and appropriately manage significant natural features, waterways, and other landscapes on Council managed lands.

INDICATORS

• Number and scope of grant funded programs are maintained.

• Bush Regenerator appointed.

• One Land Management Plan implemented, one under revision, two in development.

• Five grant applications lodged between 2011 – 2013.

• Sediment and Erosion control plans implemented.

• No significant decline in condition long‐term.


RACECOURSE LAGOON

Racecourse Lagoon is located 3km south west of Uralla between the New England Highway and Uralla‐Walcha road. The Uralla Shire Council is the Trustee of the land which was gazetted for Public Recreation in 1967.

Racecourse Lagoon is an important Aboriginal site as a living, meeting, leisure, ceremony, trading and healing place for the Anaiwan people. With white settlement, the natural basin and surrounding grasslands were used by drovers and bullock teams.

Racecourse Lagoon became the site of the Uralla Races from the time of the gold rushes to c1970s, and during the 20th Century for greyhound racing. When full, the Lagoon has also been used for sailing and other water sports.

Racecourse Lagoon, along with Dangars Lagoon, Barleyfields Lagoon and Thomas’s Lagoon, are part of a unique system of at least 58 surviving Upland Wetlands.

These wetlands are “likely to become extinct in nature in NSW unless factors threatening their survival or evolutionary development cease to operate.” As a result Upland Wetlands are a listed Endangered Ecological Community protected under both NSW and Federal legislation.

Some of the factors threatening the long‐term sustainability of upland wetlands are changes to their hydrology, landscape disturbance, clearing, feral animals and weeds, aquifer extraction, and poor grazing management.

The majority of remaining wetlands are highly modified, and their vegetation communities are under threat.

Upland Wetlands are important habitat for birds, mammals, reptiles and fish. The loss of a wetland will lead to the loss of the species dependant upon them for survival. Species known to be present at Racecourse Lagoon include: dragon fly, tiger snake, yellow spotted bell frog, eastern snake necked turtle, Australian grebe, Latham’s Snipe, and international visitors ‐ red‐necked Phalarope (Phalaropus lobatus) from the Arctic, and Marsh Sandpipers (Tringa stagnatilis) from Austria.

“Working with National Parks and the Department of Lands, the Uralla Shire Council hopes to prevent further decline, and assist the community and land manger’s efforts towards recovery of Racecourse Lagoon.”

The Racecourse Lagoon Conservation Area was defined via a Voluntary Conservation Agreement between Uralla Shire Council and the Minister for the Environment Land and Water Conservation in 1999. The Uralla Community has participated in many different Landcare projects over the last 25 years. In 2012, Council established the Racecourse Lagoon Technical Panel to provide assistance with management of the Lagoon.

Photos: Kate Boyd

PROFILE


COUNCIL OPERATIONS

Council operates one sewerage treatment plant and two water treatment plants under licence from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), and undertakes a broad range of road related projects from grading maintenance to construction projects. Council is also responsible for a range of regulatory services including on‐site sewerage management.

WATER AND WASTE TREATMENT No reportable incidents of the licence conditions of the Uralla Water Treatment Plan were recorded during the 2011 – 2013 reporting period. From July 2011 – May 2013 there were six reportable incidents of licence conditions at the Uralla Sewerage Treatment Plant. One incident related to elevated Electrical Conductivity for which no satisfactory solution was found. Another related to elevated levels of ammonia believed to be due to inundation caused by heavy rainfall. Allowable Ammonia Nitrogen levels were exceeded in April, May, September and October 2012. At the time, Council was reviewing a number of operational alternatives on the basis of energy efficiency. This, combined with the

summer weather, meant that an insufficient amount of aeration was taking place. These reportable incidents were communicated to the NSW EPA as per their requirements.

IDENTIFYING NATURAL HAZARDS Council in partnership with the NSW Office of Environment and Heritage (OEH) is investing $60,000 towards better understanding of the location and size of possible major floods.

Flooding can have many undesirable effects including loss of life, damage to property, loss of income, and a high emotional and financial toll for those affected. Floods stretch the resources of Emergency Services, and leave Council to meet the repair bill for public infrastructure. It is not possible to altogether eliminate the risks and impacts of flooding.

The study will provide the Community with improved confidence that Council has the appropriate information to inform our planning and emergency response decisions, which will help to minimise the risk to our residents when flooding occurs.

COUNCIL PRACTICES Controlling practices on construction sites has become a special area of focus for Council. Council’s construction crew, engineering and environmental management staff have all participated in special training, and the development and implementation of integrated management practices and policies. Grading, road maintenance, and construction activities have the potential to affect land, soil and water quality and native vegetation, through spreading weeds, removing habitat for native fauna and generating wastes.

ACTIONS • Improve Councils Best

Management Practice.

CSP STRATEGIES


• Protect and appropriately manage significant natural features, waterways, and other landscapes on Council managed lands.

INDICATORS

• Number and scope of programs are maintained.

• Sediment and erosion control plans are implemented as standard procedure for all council work sites.


ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE

The Uralla Shire Council Environmental Committee is a delegated Committee of Uralla Shire Council which meets on the first Tuesday of each month.

The purpose of the Committee is to guide the development of environmental policy and practice through the provision of recommendations to Council including:

• Waste management service, collection, recycling, landfill management and community education.

• The management of land under Council’s control, including biodiversity and vegetation management, weeds and feral animal control, parks and reserves management.

• The management of riparian and wetland areas.

• Reducing energy use and improving energy management across Council owned/managed buildings, the scope of which includes sourcing alternative energy sources for Council owned/managed facilities.

• To support and participate in community engagement, education and awareness activities in respect to environmental issues.

Membership of the Committee is voluntary for Councillors who have an interest in environmental management issues. However it should include a Councillor if they represent Council on a local, regional, state or national organisation with an environmental management or advocacy purpose. Such organisations include the New England Weeds Authority and Northern Inland Regional Waste.

Environmental Committee meetings are ordinarily held as closed meetings. Members of the public are able to attend by invitation and the community can write to the Committee

with submissions and recommendations. If a recommendation from a community member or group is supported by the Committee, it is forwarded to the next ordinary meeting of Council for adoption. The Uralla Climate Change Consensus Forum directs their recommendations to the Committee via their meeting minutes.

Currently there are three Councillor delegates and two staff delegates appointed to the Committee. All members have equal voting rights, but decision making is by consensus.

Information on the business of the Committee, including meeting dates, agendas and minutes, can be accessed via the USC website at: http://www.uralla.nsw.gov.au.

Members of the Environmental Committee on a biodiversity field trip.

PROFILE


PROTECTING AND MANAGING NATURAL LANDSCAPES

Council works primarily with urban‐based residents and groups in implementing conservation and rehabilitation projects on public lands. Key project sites include Alma Park, Uralla and Rocky Creeks, Mt Mutton, The Glen, Bundarra Nature Park and Racecourse Lagoon.

HOW COUNCIL AND THE COMMUNITY WORK TOGETHER The support Council provides to projects varies from staff time to help with funding applications, project design and planning, communications or administering funds on behalf of a group. Where possible, Council provides direct contributing funding, in‐kind support with machinery and/or materials. The Community Development Officer and Environmental Project Officer are directly involved in the management of on‐ground projects while the Bush Regeneration team have made significant contributions to a

number of Rivercare and Landcare funded projects. Often council will assist to maintain the works within the project.

PARTNERS Partnerships are essential to our ability to achieve positive environmental change. It makes creative, financial and logistical sense to combine our efforts. Council works in partnership with the New England Weeds Authority to control noxious Weeds across the Shire. Our partners include community groups; schools, education centres and other non‐governmental entities; regional councils; state and federal departments and business. Many residents participate and volunteer their time on projects. Indeed, many of the project ideas and activities undertaken over recent years have been generated from within the community.

EXTENSION Education, training and community consultation are other ways in which Council supports and partners with the community to conserve, protect and rehabilitate natural features, waterways, and the landscapes within the Shire.

Council has supported the Indian Myna Project, Bush Regeneration workshops for residents, waste education in schools, the provision of free mulch, worm farms for schools, and the purchase of resources dedicated for use by the Uralla community through the Uralla Library. A number of leaflets, brochures, fact sheets and guidelines have been produced by Council, and these are available from Council’s website and offices.

ACTIONS • Partner with the

community to implement on‐ground projects.

• Foster learning and awareness amongst the community.

• Partner with the New England Weeds Authority.

• Celebrate community projects and achievements.

CSP STRATEGIES


• Support and partner with the community and other agencies to conserve, protect and rehabilitate natural features, waterways, and other landscapes (ecological and agro‐ecological) across the Shire.

INDICATORS

• Number and scope of project activities

• Activities by NEWA maintained.

• Council staff hours and investment in community education projects.

• Number of community projects reported via the website.


COMMUNITY PROJECTS AND PARTNERSHIPS Event / Project Description Outcomes

Community Consultation

2011: Bundarra Nature Park consultation and planning day.

20 people attended the day. From this event Council developed the Bundarra Nature Park Management Plan.

Bush Regeneration, Mt Mutton

2011 – 2013: Weed removal on Mt Mutton hosted in partnership with High Country Urban Biodiversity Project (HiCUB), Galbaan Healing Our Environment, resident volunteers and Chris Whackett from SNELCC.

Participation of 30 people who removed privet, cotoneaster, blackberry and numerous other weeds.

Water Rat Survey Uralla Creek

2011: Sponsored as part of the High Country Urban Biodiversity Project (HiCUB) in partnership with the University of New England (UNE).

A survey of Uralla and Rocky Creeks for the presence of Rakali and Platypus; inspiration for Uralla Rivercare’s ‘Native Habitat for Our Water Rat’ creek restoration project.

Celebrate Uralla’s woodlands

2011: Partnership with Southern New England Landcare (SNELC). Spotlight evening on Mt Mutton along with a series of working bees, and BBQs on Mt Mutton, in Alma Park and The Glen.

Participation of 60 community members; construction and installation of 14 nest boxes. Continued removal of weeds through bush regeneration.

Rocky Creek engineering project

2011 and 2012: Annual event organised by SNELC. Based on the use of practical activities and demonstrations to connect students with their environment. Council supports the activity by providing service support, materials, sponsorship and staff time and expertise.

Environmental education for 280 primary school students.

Racecourse Lagoon Technical Panel

Established in June 2012, the Technical Panel hosts representatives from National Parks, SNELC, UNE and corresponds with the local Anaiwan Community.

Revised Racecourse Lagoon Management Plan.

The Glen Gully restoration

2012: Sponsored through HiCUB. Bed control and stabilisation of erosion along Rocky Creek. Engineering work will allow the continued removal of mature willows.

Stabilisation of eroding creek bed. Capacity to extend willow removal projects.

Whacking Willows for Water Wildlife

2012: Sponsored by the HiCUB project and John Holland. Severe erosion of the gully system in the Glen was advancing and producing high volumes of sediment. John Holland Engineering undertook the remediation work on behalf of State Rail.

Reduced sediment levels within the creek system; improvement in water quality. Prevention of further loss and degradation of the park.

Native Habitat for our Water Rat

2012 – 2013: Uralla creek is home to native water rats which are affected by poor water quality and habitats. 500m of willows were removed from the creek and replaced with native riparian species. This project focuses on Shanahan’s Bridge and continues a project which cleared the upper 2km of this catchment.

Removal of willows from along 500m of Uralla Creek.

World Wetlands Day, Racecourse Lagoon

By removing Running Bamboo, the natural habitat along Uralla Creek improved for the Water Rat. Replanting with wetland species, grasses and understorey plants will improve native plant cover and water quality conditions. Council gave Bush Regenerator time for weed removal.

Uralla Rivercare in partnership with Council cleared bamboo and planted 1000 plants over 0.1 ha land.

Hi Country Wetlands and Woodlands

2013: Field activities for the public including bird watching, flora identification, presentation on the history of the lagoon.

50 people from the general public attended the early morning activities.

PROFILE

PROFILE


NEW ENGLAND WEEDS AUTHORITY

The Uralla Shire Council is a member of the New England Weeds Authority (NEWA) a Local Government Authority comprised of Armidale Dumaresq, Guyra, Uralla and Walcha local government areas, some 18,255 square kilometres and 4,000 kilometres of Council roads and reserves.

NEWA ACTIVITIES NEWA has a major role to play in reducing the impacts from weeds declared noxious in the New England and Northern Tablelands region. NEWA conducts an extensive spraying program across the region’s roads, and on private and public lands. NEWA provides advice on weed control and weed identification, supplies private works on request and answers general enquiries from the public. NEWA offers their expertise to Council staff and often advises on projects.

PRINCIPLES OF WEED CONTROL NEWA applies the following principles to weed control: exclusion to prevent the establishment of a new weeds species, eliminate or prevent the spread of the weed, effectively mange the weed to

reduce it’s impact or eradicate the weed, ensure that community, industry and government stakeholders have the knowledge to identify and manage invasive weed species.

ACHIEVEMENTS NEWA runs a three year rolling weed inspection program for Council. Within the reporting period, NEWA treated all Uralla roadsides for noxious weeds, issued five Enforcement Reports and hosted an extensive inspection and treatment program across the following locations: water storage areas, Waste Transfer Stations and Water Treatment Plants, nurseries (2), gravel quarries (4), two wetlands and 3ha of waterway inspections; 34 private property high risk area inspections covering 27,197ha of land, reinspected 485ha of high risk areas, and 4ha of Travelling Stock Routes inspected.

Communication, education and extension are core activities for NEWA staff. NEWA staff attended the Uralla and Bundarra Shows, and Field Days in Kingstown, Bushgrove and Uralla Townships.

INDICATORS

• Activities by NEWA maintained.

ACTIONS • Foster learning and

awareness amongst the community

• Partner with the New England Weeds Authority.

CSP STRATEGIES


• Support and partner with the community and other agencies to conserve, protect and rehabilitate natural features, waterways, and other landscapes (ecological and agro‐ecological) across the Shire.


COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS WITH COUNCIL

The Rocky Creek Koala Food Planting and Uralla Creeklands Tortoise Walk are Council and community partnered projects which demonstrate the substantial commitment towards stewarding the natural landscapes of our Shire.

KOALA FOOD PLANTING, ROCKY CREEK Members of the Uralla community joined Fields Native Nursery, Southern New England Landcare and the Uralla Shire Council to plant native trees and shrubs along Rocky Creek as part of the second Woodlands Week celebrations. Sixty eucalypts (apple box, red gum, yellow box and white gum) and eighty lomandra and Ti‐trees were added to several hundred bottle brushes already planted.

With good conditions, the trees will soon be mature enough to provide leaves for local koalas. Finding enough eucalypt leaves to feed rescued animals is an ongoing challenge for Wires carer Denise Friedman.

“Just like people, koalas have preferences for different types of food and red gums are their absolute favourite. This planting will make it easier to feed koalas in care in the future.” – Denise Friedman

URALLA CREEKLANDS TORTOISE WALK The Uralla Creeklands Tortoise Walk was developed by Uralla Rivercare in partnership with Council and is the next stage of rehabilitation and development of the Uralla Creeklands as an open community space.

Local artists Brian Irving, Trevor Horsnell and Denee Batt created panel art work and a series of totems along the walk route.

“The pieces represent the Aboriginal cultural values of the creek, its habitat and inhabitants, and create an ecological connection to the creek for residents and visitors.”

PROFILE


COUNCIL SUSTAINABILITY USING RESOURCES

STAFF SUSTAINABILITY ACTION IN COUNCIL The Uralla Shire Council began formal sustainability training in 2013 with participation in the Accelerating Sustainability Training Program funded by the NSW Environmental Trust. The program was delivered by T‐Issues Consultancy. A series of workshops were held over a 3 day period. Eight Councillors and 31 staff members from across Council’s operational and service areas attended the training workshops.

Council continues our sustainability journey with the recent adoption of the ‘Uralla Shire Council Environmental Sustainability Action Plan’. The Plan is focused on internal best practices within Council, beginning with the creation of a Cross‐Council Reference Group that will introduce better sustainability practices within the workplace.

The Uralla Shire Council’s Environmental Committee acts as the central coordinating body for this program and is the body through which staff make recommendations to Council.

“By any measure the Uralla Shire Council Accelerating Sustainability Program was successful. All staff and Councillors had a high level of interest in sustainability and how to manage better for a more sustainable future.”

COUNCIL USING SUSTAINABLE MATERIALS In February 2012, Council installed recycled plastic pipe for stormwater drainage where there are low traffic loadings. The pipe is a heavy duty product and light weight, making it extremely easy and efficient to install. The product is 100% Australian owned, designed and manufactured.

ACTIONS • Implement an action

plan for Council.

• Implement actions / projects as recommended by local environmental groups and community individuals.

• Report and communicate.

CSP STRATEGIES

• Sustainably use our resources.

• Prepare and implement a sustainability framework for Council.

INDICATORS• Action Plan in place by

the end of the CSP term.

• Number of projects implemented.

• Number of reports and other communications.


SOLAR AND ENERGY EFFICIENCY PROJECTS

SOLAR POWER PROJECTS Council has installed solar power infrastructure at the Library, McMaugh Gardens, the Grace Munro Aged Care Centre and the Uralla Community Centre. These installations continue to generate electricity for use on site or as a contribution to the grid.

Council have reduced electricity consumption at the Sewerage Treatment Plant and conducted an audit to identify energy efficiency savings within the McMaugh Gardens Aged Care Facility, as well as a lighting audit at the Uralla Works Depot and Uralla Library.

SEWERAGE TREATMENT PLANT The Council changed the pumping program at the plant during 2012. In total, the plant consumed 14, 293 kWh less in 2012 than in 2011. While savings in energy consumption do translate to savings in costs, those costs are modest compared with the continual rise in network and market participation costs over the last three years.

MCMAUGH GARDENS (20.21 kW) Council does not have accurate data on the total amount of electricity generated by the system on McMaugh Gardens.

However electricity consumption at the site is falling year by year. Some of this decline is certainly attributable to the installation of the solar panels at McMaugh Gardens. The electricity generated is being used on‐site.

ELECTRICITY CONSUMPTION The long‐term trend for energy use at Council Chambers is one of increasing electricity use, although there are large differences from season to season and year to year.

While Uralla Library has a 2.004 kW solar system installed on the roof of the facility, the longer term trend for electricity consumption is also on the rise. The lifetime generation of the panels (i.e. from September 2009) is 11568 kW or a Carbon equivalent of 10.2 tonnes. Electricity generated by the panels is not used on site.

The introduction of the Mechanised Recycling Facility at the Uralla Landfill has seen a tripling of energy consumption at the site from 2008 – 2009 to 2011 – 2012. By contrast, electricity consumption at the Uralla Community Centre is falling substantially. As at the library, the Community Centre PV system (9.72 kW) is generating energy for contribution to the grid.

Monthly Energy Demand – McMaugh Gardens (kWs)

2010 2011 2012 2013 Jan 11,058 10,959 7,962 6888 Feb 9,180 8,549 10,480 5289 March 12,617 11,659 13,134 5901 Apr 19,438 20,459 20,695 12547 May 37,928 41,560 39,157 32072 June 46,184 47,994 46,208 40828 July 48,564 51,227 48,622 Aug 49,151 45,879 45,290 Sept 34,057 35,655 29,298 Oct 25,790 27,826 16,948 Nov 18,143 11,828 6,448 Dec 15,340 11,608 6,414 Total 327,451 325,202 292,668

0

10,000

20,000

30,000

40,000

50,000

60,000

Jan Mar May Jul Sep Nov

2010 2011 2012 2013

PROFILE


SUSTAINABLE USE OF RESOURCES: COMMUNITY

URALLA CLIMATE CHANGE CONSENSUS FORUM Council continues to support the work of the Uralla Climate Change Consensus Forum (U3CF).

The U3CF Group is independent from Council, and membership is open to any Uralla Shire resident with an interest in how the community and Government can together respond to climate change.

Council hosts monthly meetings of U3CF and staff provide support for communication and administration as required.

A number of community initiatives have been initiated through U3CF. Two of the most recent are the Uralla Community Garden project and a joint submission in response to the NSW Government’s Renewable Energy Action Plan.

COMMUNITY PROJECTS AND PARTNERSHIPS WITH COUNCIL The Uralla Community Garden project has received land for its use from Council and the continued offer of in‐kind support, materials and equipment for use to develop the project. Council continues to provide one free mulch delivery per year for schools.

ACTIONS • Support the Uralla

Climate Change Consensus Forum.

• Partner with the community.

• Support school and other education centre sustainability programs.

• Host community education programs.

• Provide information to the Uralla Shire business community.

CSP STRATEGIES

• Sustainably use our resources.

• Support continued improvement in sustainable resource use, along with other sustainable lifestyle practices, across our community.

INDICATORS

• Number of meetings.

• Number of activities undertaken.

• Amount of mulch provided to schools and early learning centres.

• Amount, type and value of other resources provided.


RECOMMENDATIONS URALLA OP‐SHOP

The Uralla Shire Council developed the Uralla landfill Op‐Shop in 2011 in response to community recommendations and in line with a broader priority to reduce the volumes of waste being put into landfill.

The shop complements a range of recycling services that Council now provides. Revenue raised by the business is used to support waste and recycling education programs, currently delivered through the Enviro‐Mentors education model. Council has made a long‐term commitment to retaining the shop, which will be in place as long as landfill and recycling services remain at the site.

The Uralla Shire Climate Consensus project produced a series of 40 recommendations from the Uralla Shire Community to Uralla Shire Council in 2009. The Op‐Shop was a popular idea amongst the community and Council alike. When Council re‐assessed waste services and looked to expand their scope, the need to invest in new mechanised recycling machinery and other infrastructure at the landfill site arose in 2010. The development of an Op‐Shop was planned as part of this redevelopment as it is a natural fit with Council’s strategies to improve recycling services.

The main objectives in creating the Op‐Shop were to:

• Increase the volume of material diverted from landfill.

• Increase the reuse/ recycling rates amongst residents.

• Raise awareness regarding the continued value in items that are not necessarily ‘rubbish’, thereby helping to foster a change in attitude regarding product usefulness.

The Op‐Shop is frequented by residents and people from as far a field as Bingara, Walcha and Armidale.

Landfill staff select suitable items for sale through the Shop from those that come into the recycling

facilities. Residents are also welcome to leave unwanted items for donation.

If products are not sold, they are put into the recycling stream. If this is not possible, they are land filled. The Op‐Shop is open all year around with the exception of Christmas Day and Good Friday.

Whilst the Landfill facility lacks a weigh bridge, we cannot say per tonne how much waste is being directed from land fill. However we estimate that there is a minimum of 60m2 of landfill space saved each year. The Op‐Shop helps to meet NSW and Local Government objectives in diverting waste from landfill and meets community expectations regarding waste management practices. There is raised awareness regarding product usefulness and extending the life cycle of a product which allows for the repurposing of products eg: old cupboards which are used as chook houses, and wheelbarrows which are used as planting pots.

The Op‐Shop needs continued promotion and a higher profile amongst the community in line with related projects. More media and communications work will be undertaken to advertise the existence of the Shop and Council’s achievements.

PROFILE


RESOURCES • State of the Environment Report 2012, NSW Government

http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/soe/soe2012/

• Wetlands, NSW Office of Environment and Heritage http://www.environment.nsw.gov.au/wetlands/riversandwetlands.htm

• Unearthing Wetlands of the Upper Murrumbidgee, Fact Sheet for Rural Landholders, Upper Murrumbidgee Catchment Coordinating Committee http://www.umccc.org.au/files/Wetlands%20Factsheet.pdf

• Montane Lakes of the New England Bioregion, Bell et al

• Uralla Shire Council, Community Strategic Plan USC, 2013

• Racecourse Lagoon Report, Haworth, R.

• Constitution for Uralla Shire Environmental Committee Final version June 2012 doc

• Uralla Shire Council Environmental Sustainability Action Plan

• Accelerating Sustainability Training Evaluation Report Uralla Shire Council

• Draft Management Plan Bundarra Nature Park, 6 June 2013 Final for Community Consultation

• Current Mount Mutton Bush Regeneration Plan 2012 ‐ 2022 (v. 2 24 May 2013)

• Plan of Management Racecourse Lagoon

• Voluntary Conservation Agreement Racecourse Lagoon


FURTHER READING

Uralla Shire Council (USC) website ‐‐‐‐ http://www.uralla.nsw.gov.au/

USC ‐ Environment ‐‐‐‐ http://www.uralla.nsw.gov.au/index.cfm?page_id=1010

USC ‐ Regulatory Services ‐‐‐‐ http://www.uralla.nsw.gov.au/index.cfm?page_id=1006

New England Weeds Authority ‐‐‐‐ http://www.newa.com.au/

Southern New England Landcare ‐‐‐‐ http://snelcc.org.au/web3/

Environmental Defenders Office ‐‐‐‐ http://www.edo.org.au/edonsw/site/default.php

Border River Gwydir CMA ‐‐‐‐ http://www.brg.cma.nsw.gov.au/

Northern Rivers CMA ‐‐‐‐ http://www.northern.cma.nsw.gov.au/

Wetland Care Australia ‐‐‐‐ http://www.wetlandcare.com.au/


URALLA SHIRE COUNCIL 32 SALISBURY STREET URALLA NSW 2358 PH: 02 6778 6300 FAX: 02 6778 6349 EMAIL: [email protected]

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