Clarence Magazine Volume Eight

$29.5M Regional Aquatic Centre taking shape

– $18M Treelands Drive Community Hub (Yamba Community Precinct)

FROM THE MAYOR

Welcome to the eighth edition of Clarence Magazine, highlighting the work that has been carried out in Quarter 4 of 2023/2024 as outlined in Council’s Operational Plan.

We are coming to the end of this term of council. The last council elections were delayed due to Covid, so we have served for just under three years when normally councils serve for four years. Soon those who wish to be re-elected or elected for the first time will be starting their campaigns with media interviews, corflutes and flyers. There will be opportunities to find out more about the candidates, what they believe in and whether they would be someone you would like to represent you. The election day is Saturday 14th of September, with a week of pre-poll that starts on Monday 9th September and with results finalised about two weeks later. After the new councillor induction and the election of the next Mayor and Deputy Mayor, council will then start to consider revisions of the strategic plan.

The community strategic plan is where council lays out its intentions for the next 10 years. The present plan covers up till 2032, and will be extended till 2035 and revised by the new councillors in the first few months after the election. It has headings of society, infrastructure, economy, environment and leadership and everything we do as a council is put under one or more of these headings.

This is where we need your help and the ideas of the wider community. Is there something you would like council to do, that we are not presently doing? Is there something we presently do that we should change or stop?

There will be community consultation sessions, surveys and polls of residents so I hope that you pass those ideas through to us so they can be included.

The new Grafton Aquatic Centre will be opening in the next few months, with the Yamba Precinct shortly after. We expect the Maclean Cultural and Community precinct project to be started soon. We have seen road works improving access between our communities and the progress of medium term plans to upgrade water and sewage services.

Councillors Bill Day, Jeff Smith and Ian Tiley have announced that they will not be standing again for election and I would like to take this opportunity to thank them for their service. In Ian’s case he will be retiring from council service that has spanned six decades during which time he has served on seven councils as an elected member and has been Mayor on Maclean Shire, Armidale and Clarence Valley Councils and was the first Mayor on amalgamation of Clarence Valley Council.

What I have enjoyed most as Mayor and as a councillor has been meeting so many wonderful and diverse people from across the Valley. Thank you all, it has been a privilege to work with you!

Peter Johnstone

Cr Peter Johnstone, Mayor

Front cover image: An aerial view of the award-winning revamped

We acknowledge the Bundjalung, Gumbaynggirr and Yaegl people as the Traditional Owners of the land on which we live and work. We honour the First Nations peoples culture and connection to land, sea and community. We pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging.

Ulmarra central business district.

FROM THE GENERAL MANAGER

Welcome to Volume 8 of Clarence Magazine, and the final report on achievement against the goals detailed in the 2023/2024 Operational Plan before we head into the third year of the magazine. For those who have been reading avidly each quarter, you will know we are now half way through our goal to deliver 16 years of road rehabilitation in two years. With $42 milllion already spent this year, you’ll find details in this volume about recent regional, and local road repairs completed in the last quarter in this volume.

I am very pleased to say that two of the most significant construction projects we have embarked on, being the Regional Aquatic Centre and the community centre and library as part of Yamba Community Precinct are tracking to schedule and on budget thanks to a robust project management regime by our staff supported by external consultants. As always the magazine includes the details of progress in the last quarter, and community can also view timelapse videos of both projects on our website.

Our timber bridge replacement program has continued this quarter with completion of Wintervale Creek Bridge and Billys Creek Bridge replacement underway. But the icing on the cake has really been securing $16 million for Bluffs Bridge on the Orara Way. Replacement of Bluffs Bridge is a great outcome for the community of Glenreagh and surrounds as the current bridge is subject to flooding a number of times a year.

New footpaths continue to appear in urban towns and villages and a two metre wide path now connects Iluka to the boat ramp, making the journey safer whether on foot, bike or mobility aid. Adoption of the Active Transport Strategy means that community will continue to see priority projects deivered for years to come.

Our sewer relining program has continued in recent months, renewing the life of pipeline for 100 years. This quarter over 4,500 metres was inspected and over 4,300 metres relined.

If you didn’t get to Live 'n' Loud at the Library during Youth Week, you missed a fantastic evening of entertainment in the Grafton Library carpark. While storm and wind swept through early and quickly, nothing could dampen the enthusiasm of the 400 strong crowd.

Two defining masterplans adopted in recent months include the Cameron Park Maclean Masterplan and the Townsend Collective Masterplan. The Cameron Park Masterplan paves the way for revitalisation of the Maclean town centre over the coming years. While the Townsend Collective will set the Clarence Valley apart from other local government

areas by providing an inclusive community hub for not for profit and community groups to collaborate, deliver services and support residents.

The past couple of months have included some incredibly proud moments for us, with rejuvenation of Ulmarra Riverfront Precinct winning an Award at the Annual Institute of Public Works Engineering Australia in April and the Integration of the Planning Portal with our corporate systems winning a Local Government Excellence Special Judges Award in June. Both projects have been defining moments in our organisation’s transformation. The Ulmarra Riverside Precinct project was the first of its kind we have delivered inhouse, providing staff the opportunity to expand skills and knowledge and integration of the Planning Portal with our corporate systems sees Clarence Valley Council as one of the first in the State to achieve this outcome leading to greater effiicency.

Details of so many more outcomes delivered are detailed in this volume, it is well worth a read. Keep the feedback coming, we are really pleased you are enjoying the Magazine.

Laura Black

Laura Black, General Manager

The information conveyed in the magazine projected a vibrant, progressive, inclusive, accountable and well-managed local government administration.

An exerpt from a letter we received recently – we thank you for your feedback.

We welcome feedback on Clarence Magazine, please write to us by emailing us at council@clarence.nsw.gov.au, by mail to Locked Bag 23, Grafton NSW 2460 or by phoning us on 6642 2000.

RECORD $15M REGIONAL ROADS REPAIR PROGRAM COMPLETE

PICTURED: Stabilisation and resealing as part of the repair of more than 200,000 square metres of sealed regional roads over the past year.

Thousands of journeys every year will be safer and smoother thanks to an intensive 12 months of work to repair six flood-damaged regional roads.

A total of almost 50 kilometres of regional road has been fully restored, at a cost of around $15 million.

It involved extensive reconstruction of damaged sections, including stabilisation of the road base and resealing the bitumen surface.

Regional roads need to be constructed to a higher standard than local roads to cope with higher volumes of traffic including frequent use by heavy vehicles.

The project was completed with the help of millions of dollars in flood recovery grants from the state and federal governments, and the coordinated efforts of Council crews, specialist contractors and local businesses.

SIX ROADS RESTORED

CLARENCE WAY: 110,000m2

LAWRENCE ROAD: 30,000m2

WOOLI ROAD: 30,000m2

EIGHT MILE LANE: 22,000m2

YAMBA ROAD: 15,000m2

ILUKA ROAD: 15,000m2

PICTURED: Before and after shots of a section on the Clarence Way.

ACHIEVEMENTS OF THE 2023/2024 FINANCIAL

YEAR

PICTURED:

2023/2024 CAPITAL WORKS

$42M NATURAL DISASTER REPAIR WORK, WORK ONGOING INTO 2024/2025.

$1.1M

RURAL ROAD GRAVEL RESHEETING, WORK ONGOING INTO 2024/2025.

$15M EXTENDED REGIONAL ROADS REHABILITATION.

$6.6M

REGIONAL AQUATIC CENTRE, WORK ONGOING INTO 2024/2025.

INVESTMENT SNAPSHOT:

$2M

FLOODPLAIN INFRASTRUCTURE (INCLUDING ALICE STREET GRAFTON LEVEE REHABILITATION, FLOOD MONITORING OF ESK RIVER BRIDGE ILUKA)

$1.5M HOLIDAY PARK RENEWAL AND IMPROVEMENT

$9.4M

TIMBER BRIDGES REPLACEMENT PROGRAM, WORK ONGOING INTO 2024/2025.

$2.2M ROAD SAFETY PROGRAM (INCLUDING, RIVER STREET MACLEAN, ILUKA, MINNIE WATER).

$500K

COMMENCE STAGE 1 CLARENCE VALLEY CULTURAL AND COMMUNITY PRECINCT IN MACLEAN, CONSTRUCTION IN 2024/2025.

$3.4M

DEMOLISH TREELANDS DRIVE COMMUNITY CENTRE (YAMBA COMMUNITY PRECINCT) AND COMMENCE CONSTRUCTION, WORK ONGOING INTO 2024/2025.

$200K

CORCORAN PARK DOG PARK UPGRADE.

From left, Clarence Way, Regional Aquactic Centre and Wilcox Bridge.

SOME OF THE PROJECTS COMPLETED IN 2023/2024:

„ REGIONAL ROADS REPAIR PROGRAM: Six major roads restored.

„ ULMARRA CBD: Revitalisation of streets and park.

„ GRAFTON WATERFRONT: Paths and landscaping create active hub.

„ CORCORAN PARK DOG PARK: Specialised park for pet play.

„ WATER TREATMENT UPGRADES: Additional processing enhances drinking water.

„ ORGANICS PROCESSING EXPANSION: Fourth processing tunnel completed.

„ DISABILITY INCLUSION ACTION PLAN: Plans to make facilities, services more accessible.

„ ARMIDALE ROAD: Landslips and culverts repaired, bridges rebuilt.

„ BROOMS HEAD HOLIDAY PARK: New onsite sewage treatment plant.

„ SHANNON CREEK DAM: Flood damaged spillway reconstructed.

„ NEW FLOOD PUMP: Flood pump installed in South Grafton near Ryan St.

„ BULKY WASTE COLLECTION: New on-call service introduced.

„ GROW YOUR OWN: Apprentice and trainee program launched.

BUSY YEAR FOR ‘BUSINESS AS USUAL’ SERVICES:

200+ CATS AND DOGS REHOMED OR RESCUED

14,492 TONNES OF WASTE DIVERTED FROM LANDFILL 22,686 TONNES OF KERBSIDE WASTE COLLECTED

PHONE CALLS ANSWERED AND COUNTER PAYMENT TRANSACTIONS 66,712

„ TOWN AND VILLAGE BEAUTIFICATION: New team targets towns and villages.

„ WILCOX BRIDGE: Flood damaged bridge replaced at Swan Creek.

„ GRAFTON LEVEE: Repair and rock armouring of bank near Alice St.

„ RUSHFORTH SPORTSGROUND CARPARK: New sealed carpark constructed.

„ MACLEAN SHOWGROUND LIGHTING: Lights upgraded to LED.

„ ACTIVE TRANSPORT STRATEGY: 20 year plan to improve paths and crossings

228,402 LIBRARY ITEMS BORROWED

151,360 LIBRARY VISITORS

42% OF COMMUNITY ARE LIBRARY MEMBERS

2,500 NATIVE SPECIES PLANTED

3,500 KILOMETERS OF WEED CORRIDORS INSPECTED

PICTURED: From left, Corcoran Park Dog Park, Alice Street levee rehabilitation and the Grafton Waterfront Precinct.

FOCUS ON ARMIDALE ROAD

Improving link to Coutts Crossing, Nymboida and beyond

Around five kilometres of Armidale Road has been reconstructed and widened to improve safety for motorists.

The work involves stabilisation and resealing of two sections of Armidale Road.

The 1.3-kilometre section out past Nymboida at Horton’s Gap has been completed.

The 3.6-kilometres on the South Grafton side of Coutts Crossing, from the Clarence Regional Landfill to McPherson’s Crossing, is underway and nearing completion.

The sections are being constructed wider than before to a full nine metres width to create two 3.5-metre lanes and a one metre shoulder on each side. This will improve safety for motorists travelling between Armidale and Grafton and locals making the commute to and from Coutts Crossing and Nymboida.

Six damaged drainage culverts under the road have been replaced to prevent future damage during high rainfall events.

WHAT IS INVOLVED?

Regional roads like Armidale Road need to be constructed to a higher standard than local roads, to withstand heavy traffic loads. This is the basic process:

„ Rip up old road

„ Stabilise sub-base with concrete and fly ash and roll to form a hard foundation

„ Add road gravel (DGB 20) for top base

„ Stabilise top base with lime and roll to form firm but flexible layer

„ Lay flexible and hard-wearing bitumen seal

PROJECT STATS

4.9km RECONSTRUCTED 9m

ROAD

6

PICTURED: Construction work to widen a section of Armidale Road near Coutts Crossing. One of six new culverts installed as part of the work.

LOCAL ROAD REPAIR GOAL

Around $12 million has been invested in restoring 30 flooddamaged sealed local roads over the past 12 months, with repair crews well ahead of schedule.

A total of 20 local roads were scheduled to be repaired in the 2023/2024 Capital Works

Restoration works of sealed local roads over the past year totalled approximately 55 kilometres in length. $12M invested, 30 roads restored

Program, but an additional 10 were completed – the result of a combination of good weather, hard work, and careful planning.

PICTURED: Above, road repair crews in action on Watts Lane at Harwood, and Finlayson’s Road near Ulmarra – two of 30 flood damaged roads restored over the past year.

Wharf Street, Maclean

Carrs Peninsula Road, Cars Peninsula.

Fullers Road, Ulmarra.

AALIYAH’S EMUS TO FEATURE IN YOUTH SPACE

Treelands Drive Community Hub (Yamba Community Precinct)

The fond childhood memories of 15-year-old Aaliyah Roach and her little sister will be forever captured on the walls of the Treelands Drive Community Hub.

The Grafton teen’s artwork, ‘Coastal Feathered Friends’, has been judged the winner of the Youth Art Competition by students at Maclean High School and Yamba Skate Park.

As a result, Aaliyah’s artwork will be featured in the new library’s youth space once construction of the centre is complete.

“As a family driving to Yamba we are sometimes lucky enough to see the local emus roaming around. My little sister gets so excited which I love. I feel like we are lucky to live somewhere so amazing and that's what inspired my drawing,” Aaliyah said.

The work of three other young artists were also recognised. Second place went to ‘Gentle Waves’ by Allara MacPhail,13, of Yamba. Third was shared by ‘Women Healing’ by Janarla Mercy, 14, of South Grafton, and ‘Pippi Corner’ by Willow Allen, 11, of Yamba.

The Treelands Drive Community Hub (Yamba Community Precinct), is jointly funded by the Australian and NSW Governments through the Bushfire Local Economic Recovery Fund, in association with Clarence Valley Council.

CONSTRUCTION ON SCHEDULE

The slab has been poured and the steel framing is being erected as the $18 million Treelands Drive Community Hub project continues to be delivered to schedule with an anticipated completion date in early 2025.

In-ground services have also been installed, including electrical cabling that will power the entire facility including a potential electric vehicle charging station, data cabling to connect computers and devices to high-speed internet, and plumbing for the kitchen and accessible amenities. The purpose-built facility will include eight reconfigurable multipurpose rooms, a library, art exhibition space, youth space, community kitchen, accessible toilets and car parking.

PICTURED: ‘Coastal Feathered Friends’ by 15-year-old Aaliyah Roach, will feature on the walls of the new Treelands Drive Community Hub, after it was chosen as the winner of the Youth Art Competition.

PICTURED: Steel reinforcement and concrete slab construction work done to form the foundation of the Treelands Drive Community Hub.

REGIONAL AQUATIC CENTRE TAKING SHAPE

There has been so much happening as work continues on building the new $29.5 million Regional Aquatic Centre in Grafton, it is hard to know where to start.

Driving past you will see the indoor centre’s steel frame is up and the roof is on. You may even be able to see the new steel and PVC prefabricated pools being bolted together by hand, after they arrived on site from Italy recently.

What you cannot see, however, is the extensive inground work that has been done by numerous trades to get the project to the point where the visible work can take place.

Hundreds of cubic metres of concrete have been poured over steel reinforcement to form footings and foundations for the 50-metre outdoor pool, grandstand, indoor centre and pools, plant room and backwash and balance tanks.

Plumbers have installed sewer connections that will enable toilets to flush and showers to drain from the new change rooms and amenities.

Electricians have been running conduit and cables to supply power to the new plant room that will be the engine for operation of the new pools.

Then, crane operators were called in to hoist metal framework for the indoor centre into place, followed by the insulated roofing panels.

Hand assembly of the 50 metre pool was underway in late June.

Senior Council staff are continuing to work closely with the project contractor to keep construction on schedule towards completion by the end of 2024. The project is currently on track despite the challenge of frequent wet weather.

Scan or tap the QR code to keep up to date with the latest images and info on the Regional Aquatic Centre project.

Scan or tap the QR Code to find out more about the Myrtha pool construction method.

THE NEW CENTRE WILL INCLUDE:

„ 50m outdoor pool

„ Grandstand

„ Indoor 25m FINA compliant pool

„ Indoor 25m combined leisure and program pool

„ Inclusive splash pad

„ Refurbished change rooms, showers and toilets

460

CUBIC METRES OF CONCRETE POURED (AS OF JUNE)

70 TONNES OF STEEL

800 LINEAL METRES OF ELECTRICAL INGROUND SERVICES

310

LINEAL METRES OF HYDRAULIC INGROUND SERVICES

PICTURED: The 50 metre Myrtha outdoor pool is assembled. Roofing goes on for the indoor centre. The 50-metre pool takes shape. Tonnes of steel forms the framework for the indoor centre.

REBUILDING BIGGER AND BETTER

Funding secured for $16M Bluff Bridge on Orara Way

It is all systems go on designing and building the new and improved $16 million Bluff Bridge now that funding has been secured to pay for the project.

Tenders are being assessed for a contractor to design and build what will be the largest project in the Clarence Valley under the Fixing Country Bridges program, with a decision expected within the next few months.

It follows success in securing the final $5 million needed, from the Federal

Government’s Bridges Renewal Program. The rest of the funding comes from NSW Government’s Fixing Country Bridges Program.

The Orara Way is a vital connection between Grafton and Coffs Harbour and is relied upon by many surrounding residents to get to town. It also forms part of an important freight route.

The existing Bluff Bridge is flooded multiple times each year when rainfall causes the Orara River to rise.

The new bridge will be less likely be inundated or damaged by large debris such as trees and branches during flooding, as it will be built higher and made of concrete rather than timber. This will improve reliability of the connection during high rainfall and reduce ongoing maintenance costs.

Initial site works and a concept design have been completed. The new bridge will be built next to the existing bridge so there will be minimal disruption to traffic.

PICTURED: Bluff Bridge on the Orara Way one of the numerous times it has flooded. The timber structure will be replaced with a higher, more flood resilient concrete bridge.

INVESTMENT TO REDUCE COSTS

The towering height and timber construction of Billys Creek Bridge on the Armidale Road makes it difficult and expensive to repair and maintain.

Work has commenced on a new $3.5 million bridge that will replace the

aging timber structure and reduce ongoing maintenance costs.

Billys Creek Bridge forms a vital part of the regional link between Grafton and Armidale. The project is planned to be completed by late 2024.

PICTURED: Billys Creek Bridge is being replaced with a low-maintenance concrete structure, as its height makes frequent repairs to the timber structure difficult and expensive.

PICTURED:

TO MARKET TO MARKET…

Farmers heading to the markets are among those who now have a better connection to town following completion of the new Coldstream River Bridge, on Franklins Road Calamia (around 25 kilometres south-east of Grafton).

The deteriorated low-level timber crossing has been replaced with a concrete bridge that is almost one metre higher, making it less likely to be inundated during heavy rainfall and providing more reliable access for residents and landowners in the area.

The $600,000 cost was funded through Fixing Country Bridges.

CONCRETE CONNECTION TO EXPLORE FISHING AND CAMPING

$1.77M Wintervale Creek Bridge completed

Day trippers and campers wanting to explore picturesque remote waterways and national parks north-west of Grafton will be able to do so for years to come, thanks to a new concrete bridge on the Old Glen Innes Road.

The deteriorating timber Wintervale Creek Bridge, around 50 kilometres out of Grafton, has been replaced at a cost of around $1.77 million, under the Fixing Country Bridges Program.

The area is popular with those

UNDER THE BRIDGE

wanting to get off the beaten track to enjoy camping, fishing, kayaking and bushwalking, or to check out the historic Dalmorton tunnel carved through the rock by hand in the 1800s.

The bridge also provides vital access for large cattle properties in the area and the remote communities of Wytaliba and Newton Boyd. It is also on the ‘back way’ to Glen Innes, for anyone wanting to get off the Gwydir Highway to travel to the Northern Tablelands.

Residents east of Glenreagh are less likely to get isolated by flooding now a new concrete culvert has replaced an aging low-level bridge on Brennans Road.

The old bridge was prone to damage by fire and flood but has been replaced with a threecell concrete box culvert that

PICTURED: From top, the aging timber Coldstream River Bridge on Franklins Road, Calamia and the new concrete bridge.

will be more resilient to disasters and far cheaper to maintain.

The $460,000 Fixing Country Bridges project was set to be completed by July 2024.

Clockwise from top, the new bridge nears completion in April; foundations are created for the new concrete bridge; and, the old timber Wintervale Creek Bridge on the Old Glen Innes Road.

GLENREAGH SCHOOL AND TIMBER LINK SECURED

Tullawadja Creek causeway complete

A vital transport link at Glenreagh has been repaired and upgraded on Tullawadja Creek Road.

The concrete causeway and culverts had been severely damaged during the 2021 floods, leaving a narrow five-metre path for vehicles to navigate – including timber trucks and the school bus.

The crossing has now been rebuilt with a much larger box culvert to allow more water to pass through during heavy rain without causing damage.

The road leading to the causeway – about 240 metres – has also been rebuilt and resealed.

CONCRETE SOLUTION TO RUSTED ROAD DRAINAGE

Rusted-out iron culverts have been replaced with concrete on two remote roads.

The new concrete drainage culverts were installed on the Old Glen Innes Road at OBX Creek, and Coombadjha Road just north of Cangai.

Culverts are an important part of the structural integrity of the road’s foundation. Replacement of the old rusted corrugated iron pipes with concrete has ensured continued stability of the roads. They also ensure water flows under the road without backing up and causing damage, preventing the need for costly repairs in the future.

PICTURED: The damaged causeway on Tullawadja Creek Road has been rebuilt to ensure a secure route for community and industry.

PICTURED: A rusted-out corrugated iron culvert (left) on the Old Glen Innes Road near OBX Creek has been replaced with a new concrete culvert (right), providing improved stability and safety.

CHECK OUT PLAN TO SUPPORT HAPPIER HEALTHIER LIFESTYLES

It is official: the vision to improve infrastructure and enable people to choose active ways to get around has been formally adopted.

The 2024-2044 Active Transport Strategy is the 20year vision for improving our network of paths, bike lanes and safe crossings, to make it easier for you to put down the car keys and put on your joggers or jump on the bike to get around town.

The actions of the plan are a direct outcome of your thoughts and ideas received through face-to-face sessions, surveys, emails, and letters.

SAFER TO WALK, RIDE AND DRIVE AT SPENSER ST ILUKA

It is now safer and easier to get around on Spenser Street Iluka, whether you are riding your bike, going for a walk, or driving the car.

THE $725,000 PROJECT INCLUDED:

„ A new two-metre-wide shared path from Iluka Public School to the boat ramp

„ Road widening and drainage improvements at the Micalo and Riverview Street intersections

„ Safer crossings for pedestrians at Riverview and Micalo streets

„ New car parking in Spenser St near the school

This project was funded through the Federal Government Black Spot Program.

Students from Iluka Public School expressed their gratitude for the safety improvements in person with the project team in June, presenting them with a certificate of appreciation and handmade thank-you cards.

Scan or tap to QR code to check out

the officially adopted 2024-2044 Active Transport Strategy.

PICTURED: Top, Iluka Public School students meet with the project team to present a certificate of appreciation. Above, a new safer crossing near Micalo Street and a shared pathway from the school to the boat ramp are among the improvements made in Spenser Street Iluka, as part of the Active Transport Strategy.

SUPPORTING ACTIVE TRANSPORT

Street improvements for Maclean and Angourie

Designs have been finalised and work is ready to start on two projects to make it safer to get around in River Street Maclean, and The Crescent Angourie.

The River Street work will be done between near Union Street and the 100km/h zone, to slow traffic and make the area safer for pedestrians and bike riders.

It will include raised crossings, pedestrian refuges, garden beds and new signage, a new shared path, and an upgrade of the park access road along the river.

More than $1 million from the Federal Black Spot Program has been allocated to the project.

In Angourie, a new 30km/h speed zone area will be created on The Crescent, including raised platforms to slow traffic and a safe crossing point.

Safety improvements will also be made on Angourie Road and Spookys Beach Access Road.

Both projects are part of the Active Transport Strategy, which aims to make it safer and easier to choose active ways of getting around town.

Scan or tap the QR code to check out plans for Maclean’s main street.

PICTURED: Left, site inspections take place in River Street Maclean at the end of May to prepare for construction of safety improvements, following completion of designs. Above, an aerial view of River Street.

BETTER SHELTERS FOR BUS USERS

New and improved bus shelters are being rolled out to help keep waiting passengers out of the sun and rain.

Upgrades have been completed on 11 bus shelters across Yamba, South Grafton and Grafton.

A further four new shelters are being installed at:

„ Treelands Drive, Yamba

„ Craig Street, Grafton

„ Two at Spring Street, South Grafton

NEW PATHS DESIGNED FOR YAMBA AND SOUTH GRAFTON

Designs have been completed for two new footpaths in Yamba and South Grafton that will make it safer and easier to walk or use a mobility scooter to get to schools, shops and other community facilities.

A 1.3-kilometre path has been designed for Gumnut Drive Yamba, to complete the pedestrian connection between Witonga and Shores drives.

In South Grafton, a 1.5-kilometre path will be built in the school zone along Bent Street, to connect Tyson Street and Bush Drive.

The paths are key projects under the new Active Transport Strategy and have been granted almost $2 million through the State Government Get NSW Active program.

NEW LEASE ON LIFE FOR MORE THAN 4.3KM OF SEWER

PICTURED: A CCTV image revealing a completely blocked sewer line in Bimble Avenue South Grafton, which was cleared as part of the most recent three months of sewer renewals. High pressure water jetting is used to clear blockages. Hundreds of metres of structural plastic are rolled off the back of a truck to line aging sewers across the Valley.

More than 4.3 kilometres of aging sewer pipeline has been given a new lease on life for the next 100 years, across Maclean, Yamba, South Grafton and Grafton.

A total of more than 4,360 metres of sewer was renewed as part of the latest three months of the program, using a specialised contractor who installed the purpose-built structural plastic lining. It included sealing of more than 170 house connections.

Closed circuit television inspections also revealed numerous locations where sewerage flow had been impacted, either by tree roots breaking through the clay pipes or a build-up of rock and rubble.

Tree roots were removed in seven lines totalling more than 480 metres using a specialised cutting tool sent down

BARYULGIL SEWAGE TREATMENT UPGRADED

into the pipes. The cutter would clear the line, with the roots then flushed using high-pressure water jetting to a downstream manhole for removal.

Rock and rubble were cleared from seven lines totalling more than 390 metres of pipe, using water jetting and manual removal.

The program was part of the new ramped-up schedule of renewals that was doubled in 2023 to $1.5 million annually.

WHY RELINE INSTEAD OF REPLACE?

Relining with specialised structural plastic extends the operational life of sewers by around 100 years, at a fraction of the cost of replacement and with minimal disruption to services.

LATEST SEWER RELINING STATS

3 months

5 towns and villages

4,536m inspected

4,362m relined

482m tree roots removed

392m rocks and rubble cleared

174 house connections sealed

The onsite wastewater system servicing the remote community at Baryulgil has been upgraded. Electrical systems and plumbing were modernised to improve efficiency, reliability and monitoring. The $300,000 project was undertaken by a contractor, who was awarded the tender in March.

PICTURED: High-pressure water jetting is used to clear a stormwater outlet in Townsend.

KEEPING THE RAIN GOING DOWN THE DRAIN

Urban stormwater drainage program

Almost 500 tonnes of silt and rubbish has been cleared from stormwater drains so far in 2024, as part of ongoing work to ensure urban drainage is kept clean and clear.

Surface drains and stormwater pipes were cleared at nine towns and villages across the Valley, with a dedicated team responding to requests for work while tackling a backlog of jobs.

The work follows introduction of the $25 Stormwater Management Charge in mid-2023, to boost drainage improvement in response to a high volume of requests for work to be undertaken.

DRAINAGE IMPROVEMENT WORK HAS BEEN DONE AT:

„ Yamba

„ Glenreagh

„ Grafton

„ Wooli

„ Woombah

„ Gulmarrad

„ Wooloweyah

„ Iluka

„ Junction Hill

„ Townsend

BEFORE AFTER

PICTURED: Woombah.

BEFORE AFTER

PICTURED: Grafton.

BEFORE AFTER

PICTURED: Yamba.

BEFORE AFTER

PICTURED: Wooli.

ULMARRA PROJECT WINS STATE ENGINEERING AWARD

Rejuvenation of Ulmarra’s historic heart has been recognised as the best project of its size by any council across NSW and the ACT, at the 2024 Engineering Excellence Awards.

The Ulmarra project was announced the winner of the category for projects up to $5 million, at the Institute of Public Works Engineering Australia (IPWEA) awards held in the Hunter Valley in April.

Clarence Valley Council Director Works and Civil, Jamie Fleeting, said the award was recognition of the coordinated efforts of many across the organisation, to create something the whole community could be proud of.

“Usually for a project of this size we would hand it over to a contractor, but that was going to cost more than what we could afford. So we decided to take it on ourselves, which also gave our crews the opportunity to expand their knowledge and skills,” Mr Fleeting said.

“It required significant planning and coordination of efforts across numerous sections of Council, as well as some specialist subcontractors, as it involved extensive community engagement, water mains and stormwater renewals, road and pavement construction, landscaping and playground installation – all while ensuring continued public access to

PICTURED: Just some of the team involved in the award-winning Ulmarra Riverside and Village Precinct project. Wider footpaths, a raised intersection and new gardens were among the improvements made to Ulmarra’s CBD.

the CBD and local businesses.

“It is highly rewarding to now see that there has been a noticeable increase in visitors to the Ulmarra village, with the streets regularly full of parked cars and pedestrians.”

The project was also honoured with

a Community Recognition Statement in NSW Parliament by Clarence MP Richie Williamson.

The work was completed in 2023 in line with the Clarence River Way Masterplan, with funding from the Federal and State governments.

BRINGING STORIES OF THE CLARENCE RIVER TO LIFE

Signs

installed along Grafton waterfront

Anyone taking a stroll along the Grafton waterfront boulevarde can now pause along their way to enjoy stories of the Clarence River, its history and its cultural significance.

Eight signs have been designed and installed along the walkway that was constructed as part of the Grafton Waterfront Precinct.

They tell stories that include the Dreamtime creation of the Clarence River by Dirrangun; flooding and the role of the volunteer water brigade; and the tragic drowning of 13 Scouts in 1943.

Further signage was also installed to help anyone new to the area to find their way around.

PICTURED: The Grafton Waterfront Precinct has provided a popular place for locals and visitors to enjoy the scenic location and get some exercise.

WATERFRONT

PRECINCT

A MAJOR ACHIEVEMENT FOR 2023-2024

The northern bank of the Clarence River has been a hive of activity over the past 12 months, visitors and locals flocking to enjoy the newly transformed precinct.

Completion of the $6.5 million project was among the major achievements of the past year, after it was first conceived more than two decades ago as part of the Clarence River Way Masterplan.

PROJECT STATS

„ $6.5M Federal funding

„ 700m shared user path

„ Paved plaza

„ Extensive landscaping

„ Lighting

„ All abilities access

PICTURED: Locals and visitors can now take in some local stories and history as they enjoy the waterfront precinct at Grafton.

LIVE ‘N’ LOUD AT THE LIBRARY

Record crowd for Youth Week music festival

A brief but powerful storm did nothing to dampen the spirits of the record crowd of 440 people who turned out at the Grafton library carpark on April 18 for the Live ‘N’ Loud Youth Week music festival.

Minus a few wind-battered banners, the show did indeed go on, with a massive program of 13 young acts across an eclectic range of styles including rap, country, metal, rock, digeridoo/dance fusion, and even a crossover of gypsy and grunge.

The crowd was also brought to its feet for two impromptu dance-alongs

to retro hits Nutbush City Limits and Macarena, playing as filler music between acts.

Live ‘N’ Loud at the Library is an annual event organised by Clarence Valley Council in conjunction with a range of community organisations, to give young up-and-coming acts the opportunity to play live in a professional setting.

The flagship Youth Week event was also an opportunity for staff in leadership roles to engage with young people, gaining insight into views and values that will help shape Council plans for the coming decade.

Scan or tap the QR code to check out all the action at the 2024 Live ‘N’ Loud at the Library

„ Garimaa Ngahri Dancers

„ Annabelle Hourigan

„ Soul Searchers

„ Lennox Monaghan

„ Enns of the Earth

„ Ellie Metcalfe

„ Five Sevens

„ Killed by the Crowd

„ Symph0ny

„ CVcon School of Young Rocks

„ Hometown Revival

„ Ship of Thesius

„ Killswitch

PICTURED: Among the young acts for this year’s Live ‘N’ Loud at the Grafton library were Ship of Thesius, the Garimaa Ngahri Dancers, and CVcon School of Young Rocks. CREDIT: Simon Hughes Photography.

PICTURED: Schools take part in the Your Future Fest careers expo at Grafton TAFE. Getting creative with Art in the Park. The new basketball courts at JJ Lawrence Field see some action for an organised fun competition. Above: Jabour Park in South Grafton comes alive for the Colour Run.

MASSIVE TURNOUT FOR YOUTH WEEK 2024

It was an action-packed 10 days of fun and excitement for this year’s Youth Week, with more than 1,600 people taking part in events held across the Valley April 11-21.

A special screening of the film Windcatcher (featuring local teen Lennox Monaghan), a basketball competition, art workshops, skating,

a career expo, a car meet and the flagship Live ‘N’ Loud at the Library music festival – there was something for everyone.

The events were coordinated in conjunction with partner organisations to engage with young people and celebrate their active role in our community.

RAMPING

UP

THE

CLOSING THE GAP

More than 1,500 people took part in the Clarence Valley Close the Gap event in Grafton on June 4, organised by Mudyala Aboriginal Corporation and proudly supported by Clarence Valley Council.

In addition to helping organise the event and manage traffic, Council staff took part in the day by hosting activities catering for a broad range of age groups.

Around 60 organisations took part in the day, aiming to raise awareness and link people to services that can help improve health, education and employment outcomes for First Nations Australians.

PICTURED: Community Development Officer (Youth) Allira Newton engaging with young people at the Clarence Valley Close the Gap event at the Clarence River Jockey Club in Grafton.

ACTION FOR SCHOOL HOLIDAYS

The Easter school holidays were filled with fun for the 130 young people taking part in 11 activities at eight locations across the Valley, organised in collaboration with community partners.

The free events included: a flower crown making workshop;

basketball tournament; art and graffiti workshops; surfing lessons; Skate and Create; and creative woodburning.

PICTURED: Young people get active and learn some tricks during the school holidays at Skate and Create in Iluka.

TRIAL BY FLOODWATER

Exercise tests emergency response

Disaster has struck. Rising floodwaters have cut roads and bridges, interrupted power and mobile phone coverage, and impacted water and sewerage services. Shannon Creek Dam is on red alert as spillway flows reach critical levels.

So what now?

In such a life and death situation it is vital that agencies involved in emergency response know exactly what to do and how to coordinate efforts, including Council. That is why we joined the State Emergency Service and 13 other agencies for ‘Exercise Lightsabre’, based out of South Grafton in May this year.

The exercise was a practical test of how Council’s updated emergency response plans would be put into

action, how newly updated flood modelling would be utilised, and the vital support role of Council’s two new Alternate Emergency Management Officers.

PICTURED: Council’s new Alternate Local Emergency Management Officers, Ben Burbidge and Vicki Marsh, are put through their paces. A total of 15 different agencies take part in an exercise to test how emergency response plans would be implemented in case of a major flood.

Ben Burbidge and Vicki Marsh were recently appointed to the newly created positions, providing an expanded capacity to support agencies during emergency response.

FIRE CONTROL CENTRE A STEP CLOSER AT AIRPORT

There has been a lot of work happening behind the scenes towards creating a new $11.2 million fire control centre at the Grafton Regional Airport.

The purpose-built NSW Rural Fire Service emergency response facility is now a step closer to becoming a

reality, with approval in April from the Northern Regional Planning Panel.

It followed extensive work to prepare the plans and documentation that met all the relevant rules and regulations.

The project, on Council-owned land, will now be delivered by NSW Public

Works on behalf of the NSW Rural Fire Service.

Once operational, the Clarence Valley Fire Control Centre will provide a base for training and coordination of bushfire response and recovery, by state and local government agencies.

BOG-FREE PARKING FOR LOCAL AND REGIONAL EVENTS

Kids and families heading to soccer on the weekends have been among those enjoying the benefits of the recently completed bitumen and asphalt car park at Rushforth Sportsground.

Parking has been bog-free despite wet weather, a significant improvement to when parking was on grassed areas near the fields and along Rushforth Road.

The carpark was completed at the end of April, including around 140 bitumen-sealed car parking spaces, and a hard-wearing asphalt bus park and turnaround area. It has been designed to cater not only for local events, but also for larger regional carnivals that attract visitors from other areas.

The work was undertaken by staff rather than use a contractor, to reduce costs and expand capability and skills to undertake similar projects in the future.

PICTURED: There is plenty to do at the new playground at Woombah Park, including features inspired by the surrounding area including the Woombah Wombat and a fire truck. Artists impression. Sealed surface completed at

PICTURED: An aerial shot of the new carpark at the Rushforth Road Sportsground in South Grafton. The team that delivered the project.

Woombah has a new multisensory playground, including unique elements inspired by its surrounds.

Kids can jump aboard a fire truck – just like the firefighters at the nearby RFS station – or take a ride on the iconic Woombah Wombat, as they enjoy playing on the new equipment surrounded by nature. Budding musicians can also try

their hand on the drums and 16note chimes, and there is plenty of active play with slides, climbing wall, a swing and a spinner.

Sandstone seating and sensory gardens add to the natural theme of the park while providing the opportunity to relax and unwind.

Your thoughts and ideas helped shape the project.

PICTURED: A Strategy has been adopted to shape the next decade of library services, including expansion of opportunities for people to create social connections.

BIG PLANS FOR LIBRARIES OVER NEXT 10 YEARS

Our libraries will remain a vital part of society as the world changes over the next decade, but it is important to plan ahead to make sure they stay relevant and accessible.

That is the purpose of the Clarence Regional Library Strategic Plan 2024 –2034, which was recently adopted.

Your thoughts and ideas were an important part of creating the Strategy, and as a result its vision has included:

„ Expansion of library opening hours and access

COMMUNITY VIEWS SHAPE VISION FOR NEXT DECADE: YOUR LIBRARIES, YOUR SAY

GRAFTON LIBRARY CELEBRATES 10TH BIRTHDAY

The Sir Earl Page Library and Education Centre celebrated its 10th birthday in April 2024. The modern $8 million library in Pound Street Grafton was opened in 2014, to replace the outdated facility at the Civic Centre in Prince Street. Construction was funded by the Federal Government.

„ Modernisation of buildings and spaces

„ Contemporary new programs such as media literacy

„ Expansion and reimagining of existing programs and events

„ Creation of new programs and cultural events

„ Growth of collections of local history and stories

Further funding opportunities will also be sought as planning progresses towards realisation of the Strategy’s goals over the next 10 years.

2 SURVEYS 1247 PARTICIPANTS

30 INTERVIEWS 4 WORKSHOPS

Scan or tap the QR code to view the Clarence Regional Library Strategic Plan 2024-2034

PICTURED: Clarence Regional Library Committee Chair, Cr Karen Toms, and committee member, Mayor Peter Johnstone, cut the cake to officially celebrate the 10th anniversary of the opening of the Sir Earle Page Library and Education Centre in Grafton.

WHAT’S CHANGED SINCE 10 YEARS AGO?

444% INCREASE IN PROGRAMS, EVENTS AND ACTIVITIES

121% INCREASE IN ATTENDANCE (DESPITE COVID)

300% INCREASE IN PUBLIC COMPUTERS

833% INCREASE IN INTERNET SPEED, FROM 12MBPS ADSL TO 200Mbps NBN AND WI-FI

300 AVAILABLE CAR PARKS

PICTURED: Top, artist impression of the Cameron Park development. Plans have been adopted to revitalise Cameron Park, above, to make it a vibrant community hub.

PICTURED: This space will be transformed into a unique multifunctional community hub under the Townsend Collective Masterplan, artist impression pictured above.

Scan or tap the QR Code to view The Townend Collective Masterplan

GREEN LIGHT FOR PLAN TO REVITALISE ‘HEART OF MACLEAN’

Plans have been adopted to revitalise Cameron Park and make it a community space that celebrates Maclean’s rich history and culture.

The Cameron Park Masterplan, formed in consultation with the community, builds and expands upon existing natural features to create an accessible and

welcoming space for residents and visitors.

IT INCLUDES:

„ Refurbished amenities

„ Pathways and shared road

„ Seating, structures, and sheltered barbecues

„ A central gathering space

„ Nature-based playground

Scan or tap the QR code to view the Cameron Park Masterplan

PLANS ADOPTED TO TRANSFORM TOWNSEND RESERVE

The Jubilee Street Reserve at Townsend is set to become a vibrant community hub, now that plans have officially been adopted.

The Townsend Collective Masterplan is a concept design that will shape future development of the site, to create a unique space for community gatherings such as cultural celebrations, sports, workshops, and educational programs.

Adoption of the plan paves the way for further work to seek funding and undertake detailed designs.

THE VISION FOR THE JUBILEE STREET RESERVE INCLUDES:

„ Café, outdoor dining courtyard, bushfood garden

„ Youth and sporting precinct

– hard courts, amphitheatre, seating

„ Maker Space for creative activities

„ Cultural Hub – admin, gallery, open green space

„ Collective Core – nature playground, open grass area, bush trail, sculptural artwork

„ Community preschool and nature playground.

„ General amenities – toilets, carpark, connected pathways

„ Recreational space

„ Youth building

THE PARTY RETURNS TO PRINCE STREET

Marketta 2.0 shows off transformation potential

The sun sets and the sky grows dark. Grafton’s main street is ready to settle into the quiet of the evening, as it would any other night.

But Saturday 8 June is not any other night. It is time for Marketta.

The sounds of live music fill the air, entwining with the rich aromas of wings, nachos, Thai, beef brisket and pumpkin soup. Hungry revellers fill their plates from a smorgasbord of stalls manned by local vendors. Many browse shops offering extended opening hours.

Centre stage stands proudly across the Fitzroy Street intersection, a festivalstandard setup beaming out local acts to the enthralled crowd.

At street level among the stalls, a

variety of dancers are also putting on a show, surrounded by transfixed onlookers. Students of professional studios glide across the asphalt with the grace of swans, while Thai restaurateurs swap aprons for silks, sequins and gold to share traditional dance.

The event was the second ‘Marketta’ for Prince Street, following the resounding success of the inaugural event held in 2023 to celebrate changes to the streetscape.

The Marketta demonstrated the potential to transform usually quiet main street evenings into vibrant, bustling hubs of activity – with significant economic benefits for local businesses.

PICTURED: Clockwise from top: The main stage lights up with some of the best local acts for the Marketta in June; Prince Street bustling with people well into the evening; revellers savour the smorgasbord of foods and local brews on offer; Thai dancers from the local restaurant entertain the crowds. IMAGES: Chloe van Dorp/Simon Hughes Photography.

WHERE’S OUR TOWN’S EVENT?

Grafton has had two Markettas – so what about our town or village, you may ask?

Good news. We have been able to secure further State Government funding to put on similar events before the end of 2024, in Maclean, Wooli, Ulmarra and South Grafton and we will be working with those communities to organise an event tailored to suit each location.

And in early 2025, it will be Yamba’s turn. In addition to a celebratory event, Yamba’s main street will also be getting a revamp to reinvigorate it as an economic hub.

IT’S A GOOD LOOK

Streetscape team on the job

The newly established streetscape team has been out and about taking on odd jobs to improve public spaces throughout the Valley.

The team was established this year to provide additional capacity beyond what existing maintenance crews were already doing, to beautify main street

areas and public facilities.

In addition to already completed projects, they have also commenced replacement of around 50 metres of damaged retaining wall and the stairs at Iluka Bay, which will make it easier to access the waterfront on foot.

COMPLETED PROJECTS SO FAR HAVE INCLUDED:

„ Maclean CBD: Help spruce up footpaths and gardens in the leadup to the Highland Gathering

„ Yamba CBD: Clean-up and removal of stickers and graffiti from street bins

„ Coaldale Hall: Grounds mowing and tidy up of amenities

„ Yamba soccer fields:

- Install new drainage and replace lifting concrete outside toilets

- Pressure clean toilets and seating

„ McKittrick Park South Grafton: Repair and paint grandstand seating

„ Ellem Oval, Fisher Park Grafton: Pressure cleaning and repainting buildings

„ Rushforth Sportsgrounds: Pressure clean clubhouse

„ Ford Park Yamba: Trim overgrown lomandra along popular pathway

„ Wooli: Repaint Cenotaph in leadup to ANZAC Day

„ Memorial Park Grafton: Pressure clean footpaths prior to ANZAC Day

PICTURED: The team prepares for replacement of damaged retaining wall and stairs at Iluka Bay.

PICTURED: Before and after the team’s efforts at the Ford Park pathway and the Coaldale Hall grounds.

POLICY TO SUPPORT MARINE INDUSTRIES CHECK OUT HOW PLANNING IS PERFORMING

Your thoughts and ideas are being considered on the draft MarineBased Industry Policy, which aims to support and guide sustainable growth and usage of the Clarence River and port facilities. The policy includes effective management of potential impacts on

the environment, First Nations culture, and other river-based activities.

It also aims to support growth in local job opportunities so more young people and families can choose to stay in the area, instead of looking for work elsewhere.

You can now check out how our development and building services teams are performing every quarter, through a new page on our website.

It includes statistics on how many development applications were received and processed, the total value of approved works, and graphs to show a breakdown of performance on applications of varying complexity.

Release of the figures via our website aims to ensure a high level of transparency on planning performance by making statistics readily available.

PICTURED: Figures for planning department performance are now available every quarter through a new page on the Clarence Valley Council website.

Scan or tap the QR Code to check out the latest statistics on our planning department’s performance, via a new page on our website.

PICTURED: The Clarence Valley’s first ever Marine-Based Industry Policy aims to support new and existing businesses like ship building and repairs. CREDIT: Images courtesy Harwood Marine.

SUPPORTING EVENTS THAT SUPPORT THE ECONOMY

Many thousands of visitors are attracted to the Clarence each year to take part in a variety of events put on by our community.

Clarence Valley Council is proud to be able to do our part in supporting this work by various local organisations, through the Special Events and Sports Tourism Sponsorship programs.

In the past 12 months, just under $125,000 has been awarded to 23

events that generate significant economic benefits for the region.

SPECIAL EVENTS SPONSORSHIP

„ ROUND 1 - $50,250

„ ROUND 2 - $28,000

SPORTS TOURISM SPONSORSHIP

„ ROUND 1 - $46,200

PICTURED: The Glenreagh Timber Festival on July 27 this year is among the events supported by Council sponsorship programs. Other supported events include the Maclean Highland Gathering, Jacaranda Festival, and GBomb Mountain Bike Event.

SUPPORTED EVENTS 2023-2024

„ Jacaranda Festival

„ Yamba Ocean Swim

„ Yamba Euchre Tournament

„ Weekend of Rowing

„ Motorfest

„ Yamba Veterans Golf

„ Maclean Women’s Golf

„ Yamba Rod Run

„ GBomb Mountain Bike Event

„ Flow

„ Grafton Dragon Boat Regatta

„ Clay Target July Open Classic

„ Maclean Highland Gathering

„ Maclean Veterans Week of Golf

„ Dog Obedience Double Agility Trial

„ Women’s 60th May Golf Tournament

„ Glenreagh Timber Festival

„ Wings and Wheels Open Day

„ Aust Open Wave Ski Titles Yamba

„ NSW Hockey Field State Championships

„ Yamba Triathalon

„ NSW Country Rugby Union u1213 Championships

„ Grafton to Inverell Cycle Classic

HELPING SPORTING STARS TO SHINE

Grafton’s up-and-coming hockey star sisters Shaniqua, Shelera, and Martina Williams, and fellow Grafton player Maia Adamson, will each receive $300 from the Clarence Valley Cultural and Sports Trust Fund after being selected to represent NSW at the Australian U18’s National Championship being held on the Gold Coast from 3 – 11 July 2024.

The fund provides financial support,

in any calendar year, to a maximum of $300 for individuals to attend one event at a national level, and $550 per individual for one event at an international level.

PICTURED: Grafton’s Williams sisters (left) and Maia Adamson are the latest recipients of grants through the Clarence Valley Cultural and Sports Trust Fund.

LIVING SUSTAINABLY LEGENDS

The 2024 Clarence Valley Living Sustainably Awards have been announced in recognition of the outstanding work by local community groups, businesses, schools and individuals to enhance environmental, cultural and social sustainability.

EDUCATION

Winner: South Grafton High School – students created a native bush tucker garden and reflective space for school and community members to learn about Aboriginal culture, food resilience and wellbeing. The school has big plans to incorporate the learning space into the HSIE curriculum and further projects under the Eco Vitalise program.

Highly Commended: Clarence Valley Conservation in Action – has been actively protecting biodiversity since 2008 through education and training in Myna bird and cane toad control.

INDIVIDUAL

Winner: Peter Turland - for his tireless restoration and community education work, tree propagation and planting projects, including the establishment of the Tucabia flora reserve protecting the threatened species Melaleuca irbyana.

Highly Commended: Michael Kennedy - is a strong advocate of Aboriginal culture, applying his traditional ecological knowledge to a range of landscape restoration projects. As the first NSW First Nations Landcare Officer, he is bringing bush tucker back to our public places and engaging with our future custodians.

BUSINESS

Joint winners:

Mudyala Aboriginal Corporation – is a key provider in sustaining culture and country. The planting and production of native plants, bush tucker talks and the preservation of cultural knowledge on country is at the heart of everything Mudyala does.

Share Create Innovate – Gina Lopez is a waste warrior who has fostered behaviour change throughout a ten-year campaign to eliminate plastic bags in the Clarence. Finding solutions for business waste and securing our local food bowl through regenerative farming practices are Gina’s passions.

Winner: The Clarence Catchment Alliance – initiated the No Mines Clarence Valley campaign seeking the support of both the state and federal governments to impose a moratorium on further mining exploration licences, and to cancel existing licences.

Highly Commended: Clarence Landcare Inc – has been actively educating the community and working to combat the spread of cane toads in the Clarence Valley through the Cane Toad Busting Program.

OUR BACKYARD COMMUNITY

Winner: Lorraine and Terry Watkins – use the whole of their urban backyard for sustainable practices. From the rescued chooks to the native bee homes and repurposed birdbaths, their garden reflects the couple’s commitment to living a sustainable lifestyle.

PICTURED: Winners of the 2024 Living Sustainably Awards included the Clarence Catchment Alliance, South Grafton High School, and Peter Turland.

PICTURED: Wooli and Brooms Head are among the coastal locations that are the subject of a new plan to help make sure we can continue to enjoy these places in the future.

OPTIONS ON THE TABLE

Plan to manage risks to our coastline

Upgraded and extended seawalls, slope stabilisation works, revegetation and dune rehailitation are among the options being put on the table to ensure we can all continue to enjoy our beautiful coastline into the future.

The Clarence Valley Open Coast Coastal Management Program is in its final stages as we consider your thoughts and ideas to finalise a range of options for measures to preserve coastal areas in the short, medium and long term, including:

„ Iluka

„ Whiting Beach and Hickey Island

„ Yamba Main Beach and Pilot Hill

„ Angourie

„ Brooms Head Foreshore Reserve

„ Lake Cakora

„ Sandon Village and Sandon River

„ Wooli Beach

„ Wooli Wooli River

A tick of approval is also needed from a number of State Government departments, before the plan is officially adopted.

Options being put forward also include planning to guide infrastructure and residential development.

The program is being created to manage the impacts of flooding, erosion and land instability, as we brace for worsening climate impacts like higher tides and more intense storm surges.

GREEN BIN CHANGES

Fibre-based products like pizza boxes, carboard packaging and paper towels are no longer accepted in the weekly Green Bin collection.

The NSW Environment Protection Agency has directed Councils to ensure that only food and garden waste are included in the organics collection, as fibre-based products may contain harmful substances.

WHAT GOES IN YOUR GREEN BIN?

9 Fruit and veg scraps

9 Meat, bones – cooked or raw

9 Seafood and shells

9 Spoiled fruit, veggies, peelings

9 Bread, cereal, rice, cake

9 Coffee grinds, tea leaves

9 Garden pruning, clippings

9 Council approved compostable kitchen caddy lines that comply with AS 4736-2006

LEAVE OUT:

8 Fibre-based products (bamboo, cardboard, paper etc) (excluding a small amount of paper to wrap kitchen scraps)

8 Vacuum cleaner dust

8 Pet poo and poo bags

8 Paper towels, tissues, serviettes, napkins

8 Washing machine and dryer lint

8 Tea and coffee bags

8 Compostable or biodegradable products (excluding AS 4736-2006 kitchen caddy liners)

8 Treated wood and timber

Scan or tap the QR code for more information on the EPA’s rules on what can go into the Green Bin organics collection.

PICTURED:

A shot from the helicopter used to map weed outbreaks across the Clarence. The recorded flight path covering a wide area across the Valley.

WEEDING OUR BIG BACKYARD

Chopper flights target invasive species

More than 1000 local properties were assessed for weeds in just one day by taking to the skies in a helicopter.

The chopper was used to map invasive weed outbreaks across the Valley, including remote and difficult to access locations that would otherwise be time consuming to inspect.

More than 70 properties were identified as having high priority weeds such as Tropical Soda Apple, Groundsell bush and Mysore thorn.

Flights covered from Wooli to Yamba to Iluka and Maclean, northwest out to the border with Kyogle Shire and back through Fineflower to Grafton, and southwest to Glenreagh, Nymboida and Blaxland Flats.

Notified landholders will now be able to promptly roll out control measures before the infestations spread further, minimising time, costs, and potential usage of herbicides.

WEED TO WATCH

LOOK OUT FOR GARDEN ESCAPEE

The lush greenery and vibrant orange or pink flowers of Barleria repens may make it a tempting addition to your garden, but beware: it has a habit of escaping and wreaking havoc.

Residents being asked to be on the lookout for the weed, commonly known as Coral Creeper, around urban fringes of towns and villages throughout the Valley, following local sightings of the invasive ornamental.

Once established in natural or semi-natural habitats, it can form dense mats that outcompete native vegetation, reduce biodiversity, and alter ecosystem functions. Its aggressive growth habit allows it to quickly dominate disturbed sites, forest edges, and other open areas.

EARLY DETECTION IS KEY:

„ Contact weeds officers on (02) 6643 0200.

„ The NSW DPI Biosecurity Helpline on 1800 680 244.

„ Report it via the Council's website by scanning the QR Code:

Grafton

Maclean Yamba Angourie

Brooms Head

Coutts Crossing

Corindi Beach Yuraygir National Park

Bundjalung National Park

DRONES KEY IN EARLY WEED DETECTION

Helping landholders reduce impacts of invasive threats

Gone are the days of spending hours battling through dense bush and trudging over difficult terrain to weed out major threats to our local ecosystems.

Newly acquired drone technology has provided our environment teams with the greatly enhanced ability to quickly gather high-quality data in target locations, that would have been difficult using traditional on-foot inspections.

One example has been a recent operation targeting Tropical Soda Apple (TSA) in the Kremnos area, south of Grafton.

Landholders will now be able to promptly roll out control measures before the infestations spread, thereby minimising time, costs, and the potential usage of herbicides.

This weed of national significance is a major threat not only to the environment, but also to agriculture. In just six months a few seedlings can turn into a major infestation taking over a hectare of pasture, forming dense thorny thickets that can cause injury or prevent access of livestock to water and shade.

On-ground inspections in target riverside locations in Kremnos posed significant challenges, with uneven terrain and thick vegetation making it difficult to navigate on foot.

Enter the DJI Mavic 3 drone. Equipped with a high-quality multispectral

PICTURED: Top; new drone technology is assisting in early identification of weed threats in difficult to access locations such as riverfront areas of Kremnos, as well as Carrs Peninsula (pictured). Above; images from the multispectral camera that uses different wavelengths to clearly identify weed outbreaks.

camera, the Mavic was not only able to easily overcome the limitations of terrain – it also captured detailed imagery that clearly identified new infestations of TSA across nine properties.

The multispectral camera is able to see in five different wavelengths – well beyond what can be perceived by the

human eye. These images make weed identification easier by clearly showing the contrast between Tropical Soda Apple and surrounding vegetation.

Landholders will now be able to promptly roll out control measures before the infestations spread, thereby minimising time, costs, and the potential usage of herbicides.

PICTURED:

The march and commemorative ceremony in Grafton were among those held throughout the region on ANZAC Day.

LEST WE FORGET

ANZAC Day, 25 April 2024

Young and old showed out in force at ANZAC Day services held throughout the Clarence Valley to commemorate those who have served and died in military operations.

Many gathered at Cenotaphs as first light broke over the horizon, followed by breakfast and the chance for a catchup and a chat.

Later in the morning, current and former service personnel were joined by family members, schools, and

other community groups to march down main streets, cheered on by those gathered along the roadside.

Crowds once again gathered at Cenotaphs throughout the day for services. Some also went on to enjoy a game of two-up at services clubs.

Clarence Valley Council is proud to support ANZAC Day each year, including road closures for marches and providing public information on commemorative services.

ANZAC SERVICES WERE HELD AT:

„ Ramornie

„ Grafton

„ South Grafton

„ Ulmarra

„ Chatsworth Island

„ Copmanhurst

„ Glenreagh

„ Harwood

„ Iluka

„ Lawrence

„ Lower Southgate

„ Maclean

„ Tullymorgan

„ Wooli

„ Yamba

INITIATIVES RECOGNISED AT NSW EXCELLENCE AWARDS

Projects recognised at State awards

A State-first initiative to make online planning applications easier was one of five projects by Clarence Valley Council to be recognised at the NSW Local Government Excellence Awards.

The annual awards are held to recognise the outstanding achievements by NSW’s topperforming Councils and promote innovation and continuous improvement within the local government sector.

PICTURED: Customer Service

trainee Miah Bell, just one of the new recruits taken on as part of the Grow Your Own initiative that was a finalist at the awards.

PICTURED: Revitalisation of Grafton’s CBD and the Marketta celebration was recognised at the NSW Local Government Excellence Awards.

FINALIST ACROSS FIVE CATEGORIES

SPECIAL PROJECT INITIATIVE:

Online application processes were made quicker and easier as part of a state-first overhaul of the NSW Planning Portal, to improve the experiences of customers interacting with Council. In addition to being a finalist, this project received the Judges Recognition Award.

INNOVATIVE LEADERSHIP:

Working smarter in our disaster recovery efforts has resulted in multiple years worth of work being completed in just 12 months, including rehabilitation of more than 100km of sealed roads.

PARTNERSHIPS AND COLLABORATION:

Revitalisation of Grafton’s CBD and the

Marketta celebration involved close cooperation between internal teams, local businesses and community groups.

PEOPLE, WORKFORCE AND WELLBEING:

The Grow Your Own project is taking a proactive approach to tackling the need for skilled workers. The groundbreaking program took on its first apprentices and trainees in 2024, with more planned in the coming year.

EMERGING LEADER:

Financial accountant Nick Harvey has been recognised as one of the State’s rising stars within local government, for his contribution to the sector and demonstrated potential as an emerging leader.

YOUR VOICE MATTERS

Leadership engages across diverse spectrum

„ July 2023: Brushgrove – NAIDOC Week

„ September 2023: Baryulgil Services Day

„ November 2023: Maclean Chamber Chat

„ February 2024: Yamba Farmers Markets

„ March 2024: Seniors Week – On Record

„ April 2024: Youth Week – Live 'n' Loud at the Library

„ May 2024: First Nations Roundtable – Grafton Chamber

„ May 2024: Grafton Chamber Chat

It doesn’t matter who you are, your age, or what your cultural background is – your views are important in helping us do our very best for our community.

That is why Council’s leadership team has been out and about over the past few months, engaging with a diverse range of groups within the community to hear what is important to you.

In March, we chatted with many of our senior community members as we joined in the On Record Seniors’ Week celebrations at the Grafton library.

Then in April, we returned to the library to hear from the opposite end of the age spectrum, at the Live ‘n’ Loud at the Library Youth Week music festival.

In May, we gathered at the Grafton Council chambers to have a yarn with First Nations people.

A further Chamber Chat was held at the chambers in May to provide another opportunity for community members to speak directly with our leadership team.

PICTURED: Leadership chat with community members during the On Recond Seniors Week celebrations. We hear from young people at the Live ‘n’ Loud at the Library Youth Week event.

Scan or tap the QR Code to keep up to date on opportunities to engage directly with our leadership team as part of community sessions

COMMITTED TO CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT

Internal audits inform changes to do things better

Internal Audit is a State regulated activity, but one that is embraced at Council, because the outcomes of an independent review can effect real change that makes a difference to operational efficiency and risk management, and ultimately improves services for the community.

All councils are required to engage independent members to an Audit, Risk Improvement Committee (ARIC) and for this committee to endorse an Internal Audit program. A specialised Internal Audit provider is then engaged to review policies, processes and systems, with a view to recommending improvement actions to address efficiency, compliance or risk.

On completion the action plan resulting from the Internal Audit is endorsed and monitored for implementation by ARIC.

A RANGE OF IMPROVEMENTS HAVE BEEN MADE BASED ON THE FINDINGS OF INTERNAL AUDITS CONDUCTED IN THE PAST 12 MONTHS, INCLUDING:

„ Improved utilisation of information technology systems to enable directors and managers to generate tailored data and reports relating to payroll and human resources. Having this data at their fingertips means making better informed decisions more efficiently.

„ Developed new environmental incident reporting capacity to optimise positive outcomes in response to any event that may occur at Council buildings or sites.

„ Trained all relevant staff in utilising the new environmental incident reporting.

PICTURED: Water network infrastructure is inspected as part of an internal audit. Processes for onsite sewage system management were also put under the microscope.

Each new term of Council is required to review the membership of its Audit, Risk and Improvement (ARIC) Committee. Council is seeking expressions of interest until mid August for two new independent members for the Clarence Valley ARIC. The ARIC meets a minimum of four times each year to support the open and transparent governance of the organisation.

Scan or tap the QR code to find out more about ARIC membership and skills, experience and knowledge required to become an independent member.

„ Developed and adopted environmental management policies and procedures to mitigate potential risks and impacts of operations.

„ Commenced development and implementation of an environmental management system that will align with international standards.

„ Created a new more user-friendly website for residents to lodge

applications for installation and operation of onsite sewage management systems.

„ Developed procedures and guidelines for onsite sewage system technical inspectors, to provide a consistent framework for activities.

„ Updated and refined internal property and rating systems to optimise efficiency of use.

FOCUS ON ALL ABILITIES ACCESS

There was no doubt senior staff enjoyed the No Limits wheelchair basketball event in May – but there was more to it than just having fun.

The event was hosted by disability service advocates from Social Futures, to help build further understanding of the accessibility challenges some people face on a daily basis.

People with both visible and hidden

CHECK OUT OUR PLAN FOR INCLUSION AND ACCESSIBILITY

The Disability Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP) 2023-2026 outlines the practical steps being put in place by Council to break down barriers for people with a disability and promote access to services, information, and employment.

disabilities shared their experiences, including difficulties gaining employment, and the impacts of public facilities being inaccessible. Staff also took to the courts for a game of wheelchair basketball.

The insights learned through this event will help inform development of new public facilities, as well as employment and workplace practices at Council.

THE DIAP HAS FOUR KEY FOCUS AREAS:

„ To foster positive community attitudes

„ Increase the livability of our communities

„ Improve access to meaningful employment

„ Improve access to services, systems and processes

Scan or tap the QR Code to check out the Disability Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP) 20232026

PICTURED: Senior staff at the No Limits wheelchair basketball event on Friday. General Manager Laura Black takes a penalty shot.

WHAT IS IN A NAME?

First Nations recognised in new town signage

Motorists entering towns and villages throughout the Clarence will now be greeted with newly redesigned signage that includes First Nations languages and recognition of Country.

It is a statement not only to visitors but also to those who live here, creating a shared sense of belonging for the land’s first inhabitants and those who came later.

A consistent design has been used across all of the signage, to communicate our shared Clarence Valley identity regardless of where we live within the local government area.

The design is based on the ‘Three Mobs, One River’ artwork – a collaboration between First Nations artists Frances Belle Parker, Uncle Joe Walker and Deborah Taylor.

In the first phase of the signage rollout, 34 town and village signs are being installed at entry points for 16 towns and villages, including reference to the nations of Bundjalung, Yaegl and Gumbaynggirr.

New signs are also being installed at seven main entry points to the Clarence Valley, and at various popular parks and community facilities.

BUILD YOUR FIRST NATIONS VOCABULARY

„ Yamba – Yambaa (abalone)

„ Maclean – Iwayarrilay (Iwayarr – sulphurcrested cockatoo)

„ Woombah – Wumbah (ants nest)

„ Iluka – Aluga (bettong)

„ Lawrence – Ilbuuya (Ilbuu – place of the cough)

„ Angourie – Gambaan (one man’s rock)

„ Ashby – Mirran (secret/taboo place)

„ Wooloweyah – Mirral (special/sacred site)

„ Coutts Crossing – Daam Miirlarl (yam, special place)

„ Nymboida – Nyimbiny

„ South Grafton – Banggiigan

„ Glenreagh - Jungguuy

SIGHTS SET ON BUSY 12 MONTHS AHEAD

It has been a massive year of capital works and flood recovery, but there is still more work to be done.

More than $97 million of capital works are planned for the next 12 months, including the construction and upgrade of roads, bridges, pathways, water and sewer infrastructure, and several exciting new community facilities.

Plus, there will be a wide range of projects and initiatives to achieve outcomes for the community across all five pillars of the Community Strategic Plan – infrastructure, society, economy, environment, and leadership.

Read on for some of the highlights of what is planned for the coming year.

You can also scan the QR code on this page to read in full all the 2024/2025 IP&R documents, including the Operational Plan.

Scan the QR Code to check out the 2024/2025 Operational Plan, and IP&R documents

SNAPSHOT: CAPITAL WORKS

$97.2M TOTAL

ROADS AND BRIDGES $19.6M WATER AND SEWER $27.4M FLOOD RESTORATION

PICTURED: An artists impression of the new regional Aquatic Centre at Grafton.

$9.7M COMMUNITY FACILITIES AND BUILDINGS

$10.9M AQUATIC FACILITIES

$4.3M HOLIDAY PARKS

$2.5M OPEN SPACES, SPORTS FIELDS, FLOODPLAIN

WHAT IS THE INTEGRATED PLANNING AND REPORTING FRAMEWORK (IP&R)?

IP&R guides the planning and reporting activities of local councils. It begins with the community’s, not Council’s, aspirations for a period of at least 10 years. It includes a suite of integrated plans that set out a vision and goals and strategic actions to achieve them. It involves a reporting structure to communicate progress to council and the community as well as a structured timeline for review to ensure the goals and actions are still relevant.

KEY DOCUMENTS

„ Community Strategic Plan – The Clarence 2032 – the community’s aspirations.

„ Community Engagement Strategy

„ Delivery Program 2022-2025 – Strategies by the Council to achieve the community’s aspirations.

„ Operational Plan 2024/2025 which includes the actions the organisation will complete to achieve the strategies in the Delivery Program which will in turn delivery the community’s aspirations.

„ The Operational Plan 2024/2025 also includes the capital works rolling four-year program, Revenue Policy, Budget Summary Income Statement and Budget Services Income Statement.

„ The Resourcing Strategy –containing the 10 Year Asset Management Plan and Long Term Financial Plan and four year Workforce Management Strategy.

„ The organisation reports on achievements against the delivery program every six months as well as reporting via the Annual Report on achievement and statutory requirements.

PROJECTS CARRIED FORWARD

Whilst every action in the operational plan is planned to be achieved, sometimes projects do not get completed or move into the next operational plan. Some items form 2023/2024 that were not completed will be done in 2024/2025 such as:

„ Maclean and Cultural Community Precinct – still in design phase with construction planned to commence in 2024/2005

„ Local Contractor Engagement Program

„ Commence implementation of priority actions in the Bush Regeneration Strategy

„ Quarry Strategic Plan

„ Prepare a Climate Adaptation Strategy

„ Armidale Road Viaduct

„ Concept plan for Prince St

„ Road safety signage review

„ Inflow/infiltration prevention program

„ Cultural Mapping Program

„ Clarenza Development Control Plan

„ Open Spaces Strategic Plan

„ Councillor Youth Mentoring Program –delayed to new Council

„ Implementation of the capability framework within the organisation

„ Conduct a review of the fleet replacement program

„ Employee Value Proposition

„ Review onsite wastewater management system

„ Prepare an animal control and animal shelter strategy

„ Snap send solve

There are some actions that are unable to be achieved or assessed as no longer appropriate:

„ Dark skies program – delayed due to location issues

„ Roll out of automated water metre reading – further analysis revealed cost-benefit ratio is negative and the project was not a good investment as the cost exceeded any benefit.

PICTURED: The old Ilarwill community hall, which is set for major renovation in the next 12 months.

ILARWILL HALL TO GET MAJOR RENOVATION

A $500,000 renovation of the aging Ilarwill community hall will be among a variety of public facility improvements to take place in the coming year.

The project is already on the front foot, with a contractor lined up to undertake the major refurbishment including a full internal redesign and refit.

The deteriorating hall will be transformed into a vibrant hub for community events, and a functional space for natural disaster refuge and recovery.

Funding has been allocated for the project under the Black Summer Bushfire Resilience Program.

SOLAR AND LANDFILL GAS TO SLASH CARBON EMISSIONS

The Grafton Regional Landfill is set to become a powerhouse of renewable energy production.

A total of $4 million has been budgeted for the coming year to build a 2.2-megawatt solar farm at the landfill site on the Armidale Road.

A 1.1-megawatt gas-fired powerplant is also planned, to

convert methane emissions from landfill into energy.

The first step will be to expand existing gas capture and flaring, followed by construction of a power plant once gas capture volumes reach the required level.

The projects will reduce carbon emissions and generate income via carbon credits.

CREATING A SAFER FLOOD RESISTANT YAMBA ROAD

More than $10 million is budgeted for improvements to Yamba Road over the next three years to make it safer and less likely to be cut off by flooding.

A total $4.7 million has been allocated for the next two years to rebuild the 1.5-kilometre section of Yamba Road from Romiaka to Oyster Channel.

It will be made wider to make it safer for road users and pedestrians, and higher to make it more resistant to flooding.

In the second year of the program, the intersection with Southbank Road at Palmers Channel is set to be upgraded to improve flood immunity, with $3 million allocated.

In the third year of the program, the intersections with School Road and Yamba Street at Palmers Island will be rebuilt with a new alignment at a cost of around $3 million to improve safety for drivers entering or exiting busy Yamba Road.

PICTURED: A series of improvements are planned for Yamba Road including reconstruction of the section between Romiaka and Oyster Channel, to make it safer and less likely to flood.

PLAN TO UTILISE LOCAL KNOWLEDGE FOR EMERGENCY RESPONSE

When it comes to responding to disasters, there is nothing more valuable than the on-the-ground knowledge of local people.

That is why in the coming year we will be helping to create what will be known as the Clarence Valley Recovery Support Plan.

The plan will capture vital information about individual communities to

ensure that when a disaster strikes, emergency response agencies know exactly how to utilise the knowledge of locals to ensure efficient and effective allocation of resources to where they are needed.

The plan will be created by the Local Emergency Management Committee, chaired by Council.

CHECKING IN ON YOUR ASPIRATIONS FOR THE COMMUNITY

Your thoughts and ideas will be sought in the coming year on what you want our community to look like in the future, as part of a review on the plan that shapes everything Council does.

The Community Strategic Plan (CSP), known as ‘The Clarence 2032’, is the 10-year plan created in 2022 based on what you told us was important, and it provides the framework for all of Council’s additional plans and strategies.

After September, we will have a newly elected group of Councillors, and it will be time to review the CSP and check in with you to make sure it reflects the latest views of the community.

PICTURED: Local knowledge will be better utilised during future emergencies through the new Recovery Support Plan.

ILUKA PUBLIC SCHOOL SAYS THANKS

Work crews were all smiles after being presented with handmade thank-you cards from students at Iluka Public School, for recent work completed near the school. The project included a new shared path from the school to the boat ramp, safer roads crossings, car parking, and intersection improvements. The colourful cards included hand-written messages from students, expressing their gratitude for the work. The cards now take pride of place on the wall at the Rushforth Road works depot.