ALGY 2014

The Australian

Local Government Yearbook速

edition 21 2014

ISBN 978-1-921345-31-9

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minister’s foreword

Minister’s foreword THE HON. WARREN TRUSS Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Australia’s 565 local government bodies play a vital role in Australian communities, delivering resourceful local solutions to a range of local issues – both simple and complex.

We are also extending the Roads to Recovery Programme, which we established in 2001, locking it in for a further five years with $1.75 billion of funding.

We have committed $300 million to the Black Spot program, which we reintroduced in 1996 to target road sites that are high-risk areas for serious crashes.

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In addition, our new $300 million Bridges Renewal program will restore dilapidated local bridges to keep freight routes open and regional communities connected, as residents make their way to school, to work, to the local shops or to regional centres.

Local councils regularly demonstrate their capacity to deliver programs and public services in a cost-effective way.

We are also committed to supporting local government and improving outcomes through the Financial Assistance Grants (FAGs) program, providing untied grants that let councils spend the funding according to local priorities.

efore entering the Federal Parliament, I enjoyed 14 years in local government, including seven years as Mayor of Kingaroy Shire, and I know firsthand the significant role that local government plays not only in the delivery of essential services, but also in keeping communities connected.

They are the voices of their communities, both in metropolitan areas and in our regions. The new Coalition Government is committed to contributing to the prosperity of all Australians by continuing to help local communities manage their own futures.

We are working with state, territory and local government to improve social and community infrastructure, encourage small business and facilitate access to health, education and other services, regardless of where people live.

In particular, we are committed to helping regional Australia pursue and seize more ambitious opportunities.

We believe that one of the keys to unlocking regional Australia’s potential is access to good infrastructure – safe local roads and a safe national network.

That is why we are committed to a record investment through our Infrastructure Investment program in major transport projects across Australia, to help keep communities connected, improve efficiency, boost productivity and drive Australia’s economy forward.

Not only are we working with the states to implement a number of nationally significant road and rail projects, we are also investing in local roads – after all, as we all know, most journeys begin on a local road.

Local councils, businesses and community groups are the backbone of regional Australia, and we will be working with them to include them in the national conversation and ensure that we deliver on our commitments.

This includes maintaining good business practices and good governance in how we work with local government.

Providing the necessary support for local councils to be part of the national conversation is integral to our plan to boost productivity and achieve a good bottom line for the nation.

Our plan will help councils deliver on their responsibilities in building and funding more roads – and better roads – and it will better enable all levels of government to get value-for-money for investments and to embrace and increase innovation in project delivery.

As Australia grows and changes economically and socially, the role and responsibilities of local government will constantly evolve. We can expect this to continue into the future, and it is important that we embrace change and capitalise on the potential benefits for all stakeholders.

THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21 • 1

CONTENTS

In this edition MINISTER’S FOREWORD 1

Minister’s foreword, by the Hon. Warren Truss, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development

AROUND THE NATION

6 Strategies for the future, by Felicity-

ann Lewis, President, Australian Local

Government Association 8 Doing less with more, by Cr Bill

McArthur, President, Municipal

Association of Victoria 10 Tasmania in review, by Allan Garcia,

CEO, Local Government Association

of Tasmania 12 Western Australian Local Government Reform

NEWS 14

Local government news

24 Airwaves connecting community 30 The screen in the 21st century public square 38 Getting youths Geared2Drive 46 Art on the inside 52 Interview with Councillor Dr Michelle

Byrne, Mayor of The Hills Shire 58 Waste not 64 The ‘clean and green’ island gets a

$500,000 solar boost

FLEET MANAGEMENT

Driving the future – sustainable fleets Fleet management apps Effective fleet management reporting can save time and money Century Batteries: power solutions for Australia’s fleet!

COMMUNITY, HEALTH + AGEING 90

REGIONAL AIRPORTS

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

DISASTER + FLOOD RISK

116 118

123 126

Bright lights for public sites Australian streets and parks poised for LED influx Illuminating communities Lighting the way

128 Safety through reliable

communications – Icom (Australia) 130 Can you run that town?

132 The mobile revolution 134 BYOD for local government workers 136 Open access to government data

driving innovation 137 Delivering to Australian business and government

INNOVATION + TECHNOLOGY

BEST PRACTICE

70 72 78

81

LIGHTING

Community engagement

GREEN BUILDING

102 Green buildings help local

governments to keep budgets in the black 110 How green buildings can boost

workplace productivity

140 141 143

The spatial industry Project Mimosa Spatial data ecology

GEOSPATIAL DATA

144 The earth in space 150 Innovative tools to help visualise your community

HEALTH + SAFETY

152 Stop! Ask yourself, ‘are your WHS

management systems really working?’

154 Is your workplace safe?

155 Why choosing green products for

your buildings makes good sense for health

EQUIPMENT + MACHINERY 162 164

168

Workplace health and safety Mount Gambier Aquatic Centre biomass boiler All your pool needs covered

INFRASTRUCTURE + ENGINEERING 172 Right project, right place, right price 176 Victorian Road Safety Strategy 2013–22 178 Access all areas 182 Uncovering the underground 183 Councils working on wastewater treatment 185 The advantage of experience…

2 • THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21

188 192 194 195

Planning in regional and rural airports More than just freight The aerodrome expert The role of airports in economic growth: the case of regional Australia

202 Council ingenuity saves lives and sets benchmarks

DISASTER MANAGEMENT

208 Fire protection in local government

buildings: The importance of

maintenance and emergency management

ENVIRONMENT, ENERGY + SUSTAINABILITY

216 Affordable, sustainable solution for

quality landscape and construction materials 218 Green roofs and walls for Sydney’s

local area 224 Improving the built environment with

world-class capabilities

SECURITY

228 Bomb threat – justifying not evacuating 230 Enhance community security with

video surveillance

EDUCATION + TRAINING

232 The importance of training for elected members 233 Meeting the infrastructure asset

management challenge

EVENTS

234 Local government events around Australia 235 A venue for all seasons

The Australian

Local Government Yearbook® edition 21 PUBLISHED BY CORPORATE PROFILE 4 Discover the ultimate fleet vehicle 17 Reliable. Efficient. Broadband where

you need it 18 Roebourne looking forward 19 Moreton Bay Region in Queensland, Australia 22 Give yourself or your team the

winning edge 26 At your service – councils gear up

for the private cloud 34 Cybercrime – are you protected?

42 A strong track record, and a vision

for the future 44 Why do road markings disappear on

rainy nights?

50 More than just personal protective equipment 54 Clean solutions for outdoor pest control 60 Century Batteries: your

environmental sustainability partner 62 A tradition of excellence and innovation 68 The peak of SUVs 74 New fuel management program now available!

76 A cost-saving fleet leasing and

management company 77 Creating an employer of choice

benefit program 82 Mercedes-Benz Vans: born to run 84 Love my Honda!

86 Solving a council’s copier muddle 94 The secret to a great team, living

their values 96 Improving hygiene at your aquatic centre 99 Hytera – leading two-way radio provider 106 Designed, supplied and installed

sustainable, environmentally

progressive solutions for today,

tomorrow and the future 114 Strategic planning and program

integration can achieve behaviour change 148 The national broadband network

– an update 170 Custom box culverts deliver

unprecedented value 180 Technical support for local

government, council and regional

water authority staff 186 Eliminating odour nuisance 200 A truly ‘national’ government supply chain 206 Flood mitigation and prediction 212 Keeping your town ship-shape 214 Think local, act local, buy local: the

green government solution 220 Why should your council use

Environdata Weather Stations?

Executive Media Pty Ltd ABN 30 007 224 204 430 William Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3000 Phone: (03) 9274 4200 | Fax: (03) 9329 5295 Email: media@executivemedia.com.au Web: www.executivemedia.com.au Editor: Gemma Peckham Designer: Alma McHugh Other titles include: The Australian Local Government Environment Yearbook® and The Australian Local Government Infrastructure Yearbook®. To discuss an advertising package to promote your company in one of Australia’s leading local government publications, contact Executive Media on (03) 9274 4200 or media@executivemedia.com.au. © and ® Executive Media Pty Ltd. All rights reserved.

Except as stipulated under the Copyright Act, no part of this book may be reproduced in any form without the permission of the publisher. First Edition 1993, Second Edition 1994, Third Edition 1995, Fourth Edition 1996, Fifth Edition 1997, Sixth Edition 1998, Seventh Edition 2000, Eighth Edition 2001, Ninth Edition 2002, Tenth Edition 2003, Eleventh Edition 2004, Twelfth Edition 2005, Thirteenth Edition 2006, Fourteenth Edition 2007, Fifteenth Edition 2008, Sixteenth Edition 2009, Seventeenth Edition 2010, Eighteenth Edition 2011, Nineteenth Edition 2012, Twentieth Edition 2013, Twenty First Edition 2014.

ISBN 978-1-921345-29-6 While all reasonable care has been taken in the preparation of this Yearbook, the editors and publishers do not guarantee the accuracy of information contained in the text and advertisements.

Every effort has been made to acknowledge all sources and owners of copyright. The views expressed in this Yearbook are those of the individual authors and do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the publishers and editors.

THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21 • 3

corporate profile

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t’s not called ‘The Ultimate Driving Machine’ for nothing: when your business is considering fleet vehicles, there are a number of reasons why BMW should rise to the top of your list.

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So, let’s talk more about the bottom line: when you take resale value into account, BMW becomes an even more attractive choice. In fact, in recent years our vehicles have been consistently awarded for their overall ownership proposition. That’s because every BMW is designed to keep running costs to a minimum with a suite of BMW EfficientDynamics technologies. Meticulously designed engines help you get the maximum from every drop of fuel, regardless of the fuel powering them, while the intelligent Condition Based Servicing system minimises servicing costs by monitoring your vehicle’s condition and prewarning you when a service is due or if an issue requires your attention.

Your employees and their vehicles will also always be networked with the world outside and the traffic 4 X •• THE THE AUSTRALIAN AUSTRALIAN LOCAL LOCAL GOVERNMENT GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK YEARBOOK EDITION EDITION 21 21

around them, with the series of innovations we call ‘BMW ConnectedDrive’ incorporated into every BMW in our range.

Of course, every BMW takes good care of its passengers with passive safety features, which help to protect occupants in the event of a collision. But BMW also places a high importance on active safety innovations to help avoid any hazards and accidents in the first place, so you can be confident you’re providing your employees with a safe and comfortable company car.

To ensure that we continue to improve on the BMW promise of the Ultimate Driving Machine, we are constantly developing innovative and alternative drive concepts and technology to make mobility more efficient and sustainable than ever before. The visionary all-new electric BMW i3 and i8, set to debut in Australia in 2014, are the new incarnations of this, based on a longstanding, proven principle – the unique relationship between driving dynamics and efficiency.

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When you combine special fleet pricing with cost efficiencies, the monthly outlay may be below your current vehicle costs, making it even easier to follow your heart. To find out more, contact BMW Fleet Solutions at fleetsolutions@bmw.com.au or call (03) 9264 4000.

CONTACT BMW FLEET SOLUTIONS TODAY.

around the nation

Strategies for the future

Felicity-ann Lewis President, Australian Local Government Association (ALGA)

The first three months of 2014 have raised significant issues for local government, which have been the focus of recent meetings of the ALGA Board. During meetings in February and March, Board members have identified and discussed the strategic objectives of local government in developing a 2014–17 Strategic Plan.

I

mmediate strategic priorities will include funding for local government, infrastructure, productivity, rural and regional issues, and Indigenous matters.

Funding remains the top priority for the ALGA Board, and members have undertaken lengthy discussions about federal government policy and objectives that will impact on the development of the Strategic Plan. This includes a number of Commonwealth reviews, notably the National Commission of Audit, the Review of the Federation, and the Review of Taxation.

The National Commission of Audit will guide the 2014–15 Federal Budget and influence Commonwealth thinking about its review of the Federation and potentially the taxation review. This process will inform the local government agenda, as the Commission’s report will examine the activities performed by the Commonwealth and consider whether such activities could be undertaken more efficiently by the private sector, the not-for-profit sector, the states, or local government.

The White Paper on Reform of the Federation may have direct relevance to strengthening democratic processes, including Commonwealth–local government relations and funding. Similarly, the Review of Taxation

6 • THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21

around the nation

may have direct relevance to Commonwealth–local government financial relations, including Financial Assistance Grants, the Roads to Recovery program, and other funding.

In my home state of South Australia, only 24 per cent of senior managers in councils are women, and only four councils out of 68 have a female chief executive officer.

As well as deciding on key areas of focus for the future, the Board has reflected on achievements under the 2010–14 Strategic Plan, including the work that went into the proposed 2013 referendum for Constitutional Recognition for Local Government.

Despite a commitment from the previous federal Labor Government to support a referendum to include local government in the Australian Constitution at the time of last year’s federal election, former prime minister Kevin Rudd decided to advance the election date, which meant that the referendum could not proceed, as the proposed time frame did not meet the requirements under Constitutional Law. Board members agreed that the national campaign for Constitutional Recognition of Local Government demonstrated the strength of local government’s organisational capacity, and highlighted to the broader community local government’s value and the severity of the sector’s financial sustainability issues. The Board also reflected on further achievements, including the extension of the Roads to Recovery program to June 2019, and the success of the 2013 National State of the Assets Report.

This year, I have presented speeches on another topic of importance to the future of local government: the contribution of women. On 8 March, I joined my local community of Marion in celebrating International Women’s Day. This is a pivotal day for communities and organisations to celebrate the achievements of women and acknowledge areas requiring further action to ensure women’s equality. The day, and what it represents, is especially important for local government, which is under-represented by women, both as council members and within senior staffing positions. Nationally, women comprise 45 per cent of the local government workforce; however, only 20 per cent of these women work in a professional position.

In my home state of South Australia, only 24 per cent of senior managers in councils are women, and only four councils out of 68 have a female chief executive officer. These are some of the issues that I have been addressing both locally and in my capacity as ALGA President.

Recently, I attended the 2014 Australian Local Government Women’s Association (ALGWA) New South Wales Annual Conference in Broken Hill, where I provided the opening keynote address, entitled ‘Embracing Change and Gender Equity in Local Government’. During this presentation, I drew on research and discussed some of the barriers that have been identified for women moving into executive positions. I also highlighted the challenges that I have experienced as a long-serving Mayor and Councillor, and raised ideas for change to ensure that women can expect to have the right working environment and the right circumstances in which to reach their full potential.

No doubt local government will continue to be presented with significant and challenging issues such as these as we progress further into 2014.

THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21 • 7

around the nation

Doing less with more

By Cr Bill McArthur, President, Municipal Association of Victoria

It is well known that people all over Australia are doing less with more.

Communities and organisations are embracing efficiency, innovation and sustainability, and are reaping the benefits of implementing costeffective strategies and programs.

V

ictorian councils and the Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) are leading the way in costeffective initiatives.

Innovation, efficiency and sustainability are key drivers in many programs and services that the MAV supports.

We are fostering partnerships with organisations to maintain cost-effective initiatives for our councils and their communities.

In February, the MAV announced its partnership with the Garage Sale Trail for the second year. The trail organises communities around Australia to hold 8 • THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21

garage sales on the same day to promote re-use, waste reduction to landfill, and positive social interactions among communities. A key element of the trail is support at the local government level. Last year, 24 Victorian Councils formally joined in on the event.

The saying ‘One man’s trash is another man’s treasure’ rang true during the trail last year, with a total of 1653 garage sales held on 23 October 2013 in Victoria. A total of 74 per cent of sales occurred in the 24 participating council areas. The event was a great way for communities to engage with each other, make some extra pocket money, and re-use items where possible.

In 2013, the MAV launched the Patchwork Pilot project to strengthen the way different organisations work together and collaborate to keep vulnerable families safe.

Patchwork is an innovative web tool, developed in the United Kingdom by FutureGov, that reveals the hidden network of practitioners around a client. It quickly lets staff see who else from other agencies is working with a client, and gives them the information they need to get in touch for a human conversation.

around the nation

Patchwork is cost-effective and helps with efficiency.

This is important, as our front-line workers have high case loads and increasingly complex cases to manage.

Patchwork is a simple content management system and stops practitioners from having to spend hours calling other agencies to find out who is involved in a case.

The front-line staff updates the contact information of workers on their own cases, meaning that it is shared across all local agencies in real time.

The results of the program speak for themselves.

In July last year, the MAV began Patchwork with five councils volunteering to take part. Initially, the councils loaded 100 clients and connected with 44 different organisations. This established a network of more than 100 front-line workers.

So far, more than 100 different organisations have signed up, ranging from local government to state departments and non-government organisations. On top of this, Patchwork has more than 350 clients, and 250 workers.

The project has received endorsement from the Victorian Department of Education and Early Childhood Development (DEECD), and we are currently planning the roll out to those staff members who would benefit from access to Patchwork.

While the program continues to grow, our aspiration stays the same: to achieve better coordination and collaboration of agencies to provide care that keeps people safe.

This year will mark five years since the MAV began an innovative STEP Planning Process Improvement Program. The program helps councils to regularly review their planning services, and to network with other councils. It provides for both substantive ‘step’ change and continuous improvement.

Anecdotally, we know that councils face a range of challenges in delivering their planning services, which include cost, time and effort. It can also be difficult for councils to keep planning schemes up to date. The STEP program is there to support and help councils to manage scarce resources so that they are best placed to meet the constant and changing demands.

So far, the program has been a success, with the application process now open for 2014.

Fifty per cent of the sector has gone through the program since 2010, and the MAV now has a plan to evolve the program in 2014 and incorporate more council involvement with a STEP Planning Pilot Program.

In 2011, the Planning Institute of Australia awarded the MAV STEP planning program a commendation as part of its 2011 Victoria Awards, in the ‘Improving planning processes and practices’ award category.

Sustainability is another term that is often thrown about when discussing innovation and efficiency. Last year, the MAV was proud to support councils that made the transition to green lighting as a way to save money and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

These pioneering energy-saving projects will result in combined financial savings of up to $340 million over time – a massive windfall for councils and ratepayers.

The MAV and project partner Ironbark Sustainability are providing a program to support local government’s energy-efficient street lighting bulk changeovers. Over the past 18 months, we have worked with councils to develop project plans, design specifications, a procurement panel and implementation support.

With each light that is changed, nearly 70 per cent of the old lamp’s energy is saved. Based on current and funded projects, more than 183,000 inefficient 80-watt mercury vapour lights will be replaced over four years, saving 1.21 million tonnes of greenhouse gas over the life of the new lights.

We know that there are challenges ahead for local government nationally; these include funding for programs and initiatives, and continuing a high level of service for our growing populations. But it’s important for councils to embrace innovation, efficiency and sustainability to help advance them in a positive and cost-effective way.

THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21 • 9

around the nation

Tasmania in review

By Allan Garcia, CEO, Local Government Association of Tasmania

At the time of writing, the Tasmanian state election campaign was in full swing. With all parties taking a policy platform of no forced amalgamations of councils, there was little to differentiate the positions of each. Education, health and employment are taking centre stage, so it is not expected that the short- to medium-term horizon will result in major change driven from the state level.

N

otwithstanding the election, state and local governments have been working on a Role of Local Government (RoLG) project. The report recommends the creation of four Working Groups: Governance, Legislation, Economic Development and Collaboration.

The RoLG project is underpinned by the belief that for solutions to be fully owned and supported, they must come from within the local government sector because that is where the expertise lies. Both state and local government recognise the need for change, and both have agreed to take responsibility for identifying the gaps and solutions, and to be jointly responsible for implementing reforms. Experience has shown that collaborative work will only produce results if there is commitment from all parties, and a genuine 10 • THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21

around the nation

willingness to work together to achieve outcomes.

The championing of the project by state and local government will afford a real opportunity to address capability gaps and remove impediments. The RoLG project and the establishment of the four working groups is a major achievement, and demonstrative of the positive relationship between the two spheres of government. The project offers an opportunity to set the reform agenda for some years to come.

In terms of 2013, the consolidation of the three regional water and sewerage authorities into a single entity with a skills-based Board and ongoing local government ownership stands as a significant achievement over the past 12 months. The consolidation is accompanied by a stronger governance framework and communication arrangements with owner councils, and eliminates most of the involvement of the state government in oversight and scrutiny of the new corporation’s operations. While much is still to be achieved in terms of infrastructure upgrades and pricing reform, the efforts of the local government sector in working together and being willing to compromise on fundamental policy and structural issues have resulted in an outcome where the benefits of the water and sewerage reform process are

likely to be more readily achieved in a more cooperative and informed environment.

Councils also achieved significant advancement in their asset management and long-term financial planning endeavours. A dedicated project to develop templates, common approaches and terminology, as well as expert training, has resulted in major improvements in capability and capacity to plan and manage the assets and financial resources of councils. Legislation has subsequently been introduced to make these instruments mandatory within the financial reporting framework of councils. The same legislation now requires the implementation of audit panels at each council.

Planning reform was again brought to the fore, with each council completing a new template-planning scheme during the year. In addition to providing consistency of format, definitions, zoning and broad content, the planning systems have been developed within the requirements and confines of the three regional planning strategies for the state. This represents a significant body of work, and will streamline the planning process and improve the broader literacy of planning schemes.

THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21 • 11

around the nation

Western Australian Local Government Reform The state government’s Metropolitan Reform of Local Government in Perth, Western Australia, is well underway, with most local governments now working together in groups on the initial planning for new local government authorities from 1 July 2015.

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he Western Australian Local Government Association (WALGA) in conjunction with the Department of Local Government and Communities, and Local Government Managers Australia (LGMA (WA)), has developed an online Reform Toolkit to guide local governments through the transition process in the lead-up to the changes.

Successful local government reform relies on the application of an effective and compliant framework that supports local government through the challenging and complex process of change 12 • THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21

Government of Western Australia

Department of Local Government

and Communities

Summary

An online resource, the Toolkit provides extensive practical, hands-on guidance through a step-by-step process that manages the different stages of structural reform.

Key objectives of the Toolkit are to support local governments through the process, to assist in providing the best possible services to residents with maximum efficiency, and to produce modern and resilient local governments that will meet the needs of a rapidly growing city.

Successful local government reform relies on the application of an effective and compliant framework that supports local government through the challenging and complex process of change.

The reform process has four stages with defined milestones. The key milestones and time-critical tasks are outlined as: • Stage 1: Reviewing – is focused on identifying, reviewing, auditing and documenting all the current activities and information, such as process, frameworks, policies, databases and plans that exist within the merging local governments.

around the nation

• Stage 2: Planning – looks at exploration, analysis, consolidation and integration of data from the merging partners, which will inform decision-making and the development of key plans and strategies.

• Stage 3: Mobilisation – organisations will need to finalise the interim service delivery model and interim organisational and staffing structures.

Additionally, corporate business plans and annual budgets for 2015/16 will be finalised.

• Stage 4: Implementation – July 2015 marks the beginning of a new era that will merge the different cultures of the previous local government entities with new structures and ways of doing business.

As part of the Toolkit, an Elected Member Guide focusing on strategic direction was developed to meet the specific needs of elected members.

The council and elected members play a significant role in the Metropolitan Local Government Reform process. Their roles include community leadership and direction, critical oversight, monitoring the progress of the transition and implementation process, and continuously communicating with the community.

Throughout 2014 and 2015, various training opportunities relevant to the reform process will be run by WALGA and made available to the sector.

‘Train the Trainer’ sessions were held on how best to use the Toolkit for a customised reform process plan.

Decisions on boundary changes in Perth are still to be finalised. Currently, the Local Government Advisory Board is collating and analysing the public submissions that it has received for the proposed changes to Perth’s metropolitan local government boundaries.

The Board is expected to complete its inquiry and provide its report to the WA Minister for Local Government, Community Services, Seniors and Volunteering, Youth, the Hon. Tony Simpson MLA, towards the end of June 2014.

THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21 • 13

news

Local government news Councils are open The Ombudsman South Australia, Richard Bingham, recognises that his latest report into confidentiality in local government has indicated that there is ‘clear evidence that councils have taken the message about the need for more openness seriously’.

Local Government Association Acting President Mayor Lorraine Rosenberg says that Bingham’s report on the implementation of his recommendations from 2012 shows that the vast majority of councils have implemented or are implementing his nine recommendations.

‘His report clearly states that the average rate of council business items discussed in closed meetings dropped from around nine per cent to 4.6 per cent within 12 months of the delivery of his audit report. On anyone’s appraisal, that is a great effort,’ Mayor Rosenberg says.

‘Responses to his other recommendations clearly demonstrate that councils are working through the issues to meet the Ombudsman’s recommendations.

‘In most cases, all 67 Councils have either fully implemented responses to the recommendations or are in the process of implementation. (South Australia’s 68th Council, Roxby Downs, has an Administrator and no elected Council.)

Easing the effects of disaster The local government sector has urged the Commonwealth as well as state governments to bolster funding by $40 million to ease the effects of recurrent natural disasters.

The call for more cash was made by Australian Local Government Association (ALGA) President Felicity-ann Lewis during a meeting with Federal Minister for Justice Michael Keenan, where the peak group called for all levels of government to up provisions to cope with natural disasters before they occur.

The main driver in ALGA’s call stems from the fact that councils are increasingly pressed for cash to deal with disasters when they occur, as well as subsequent repairs to damage.

14 • THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21

Councils say that they now simply cannot keep up with the increased frequency of floods, storms and bushfires.

Regional package welcomed The Local Government Association (LGA) of South Australia has welcomed the announcement of a $39 million funding package for regional South Australia, and looks forward to more information about what it will mean for Councils and Regional Development Australia Boards.

LGA Acting President Lorraine Rosenberg has welcomed the reinstatement of regional community cabinet meetings and further consideration of the LGA’s call for indexation of state pensioner concessions on Council rates.

‘We know it takes time to travel and engage properly in regional areas, but there is simply no substitute for hearing from regional people on their own turf about local issues,’ she says.

Victoria’s emergency risks evaluated A new report by the Victorian Government on emergency risks in Victoria has, for the first time, outlined, assessed and published Victoria’s major emergency threats. The emergency risks in the assessment include bushfire, earthquake, flood, heatwave, hazardous materials emergency, storm, transport infrastructure emergency, and marine pollution.

‘The analysis tells us that our highest-priority emergency risks are bushfire, flood and pandemic influenza. Following these are a group of risks that are more technological in origin, such as transport infrastructure emergency, mine failure (specifically coal mines supporting electricity generation), marine pollution and electricity supply disruption,’ the report says. ‘Then come several risks that arise from natural processes, such as heatwave, insect pest incursions and emergency animal disease.’

The report provides information to assist private enterprise and governments to better understand and plan for emergencies in Victoria. It also sets out

news

what is being done about those risks, and sources of further information, in order to better support strategic priority setting.

development local policy to help Council ensure that planning applications adopt a best practice approach to sustainable building design.

The risk assessment report is published under a national initiative known as the National Strategy for Disaster Resilience, which has been adopted by all Australian states, territories and the Commonwealth.

‘Yarra has worked together with our counterparts at the Cities of Banyule, Moreland, Port Phillip, Stonnington and Whitehorse to prepare this amendment, which, if approved by the Minister for Planning, will formally recognise the importance of ESD in the planning process,’ she says.

Consultation on flood planning changes underway Ipswich City Council is going above and beyond the statutory requirements by directly engaging approximately 6000 property owners affected by upcoming amendments to the planning scheme.

Planning and Development Committee Chairperson Cr Paul Tully says this community consultation will ensure that affected property owners are fully aware of changes proposed to enhance flood protection in new developments.

‘Since June 2011, a temporary local planning instrument (TLPI) has placed updated requirements for development based on a new development line representing the highest of the 1974 flood level, 2011 flood level and the predicted one in 100 line,’ says Cr Tully.

‘This instrument has worked well and meant that all applications approved in these areas have to conform to a higher standard of flood readiness.

‘We are well on the way to incorporating the TLPI into our planning scheme permanently, and will be consulting directly with owners of affected properties as part of this process,’ Cr Tully says.

Plan to make new developments greener Focus on environmentally sustainable design (ESD) principles will be strengthened for new residential developments in Yarra and other parts of Melbourne under a new proposal from a group of metropolitan councils.

Yarra City Council Mayor Cr Jackie Fristacky says that Amendment C133 to the Yarra Planning Scheme proposes to introduce an environmentally sustainable

Under the Amendment, applicants will need to submit a Sustainable Design Assessment or a Sustainability Management Plan for residential and non-residential planning permit applications (depending on the size of the proposed development).

‘Yarra and the other participating councils found that there was an opportunity to ensure that environmentally sustainable design is considered earlier in the planning process, remedying the current lack of a statewide approach to ESD. It has been a great collaborative effort

by Melbourne councils,’ she says.

Future power in waste for energy Communities at last month’s Waste to Energy Forum in Western Australia have been told to look to waste to contribute to their future power needs.

Coordinated by the WA Local Government Association (WALGA), the Forum featured state and local government speakers, and heard from an international expert in harnessing waste for energy.

WALGA President Mayor Troy Pickard says the Forum keynote speaker, Johannes Martin from Germany, is at the leading edge of technology in the waste to energy field.

‘The purpose of the Forum was to ensure that elected members and relevant staff responsible for waste management within local government were aware of the latest technology and advances in waste to energy,’ Pickard says.

‘Once armed with this information, local government elected members and staff in Western Australia will be able to have an open and informed discussion with their communities on the opportunities of waste to energy.’

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16 • THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21

corporate profile

RELIABLE. EFFICIENT. BROADBAND WHERE YOU NEED IT

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ambium Networks provides fixed wireless broadband infrastructure solutions for local governments worldwide. The company has more than 10 years’ experience, with proven innovation and thousands of networks installed in more than 150 countries.

Fixed wireless networks are used to augment wired and cellular networks by providing cost-effective highspeed communications to remote locations, between buildings, or throughout the community. They not only provide the enhanced information and ease of contact that improve citizen communications, but they also enable information sharing between dispersed locations while significantly reducing operating expenses. This improved communication also helps governments to deliver citizen services faster and better.

POINT-TO-MULTIPOINT ACCESS NETWORKS

Video surveillance solutions enabled by the extended coverage offered by fixed wireless networks are a key part of public safety and crime prevention, with proven success stories.

Canopy Access Networks offer interference-tolerant, scalable networks for data, voice and video applications.

Canopy solutions are proven with four million modules deployed in thousands of networks around the world.

POINT-TO-POINT BACKHAUL LINKS

What makes Cambium Solutions different:

Cambium Networks Point-to-Point backhaul links offer a wide range of Point-to-Point solutions to address an array of radio frequencies, applications, environments, infrastructures and budgets. Our solutions are built to last with a combined total of more than three billion field hours in operation.

• Low-cost, low-complexity, low-maintenance infrastructure – most applications are installed in days and show a return on investment within months.

What makes Cambium PTP solutions different: • High performance – to perform reliably in virtually any path conditions, including non-line-of-sight and longrange line-of-sight, over water and desert terrain, even in severe weather conditions.

• Intelligent Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (i-OFDM) – to resist interference and signal fading.

• Adaptive Modulation – to provide the maximum throughput with highest link quality.

• Advanced Spectrum Management with Dynamic Spectrum Optimisation (DSO) – to avoid interference.

• High Spectral Efficiency – high bandwidth.

• PTP LINKPlanner tool – this provides a graphical representation of the link path along with configuration details, such as link configuration description, antenna height and maximum power, and a performance summary includng link loss, data rates and link reliability.

• Investment Protection – PTP 810 supports TDM today and enables IP to provide smooth migration without replacing equipment.

• Rapid deployment in hours – this enables network operators to rapidly extend broadband connectivity when and where it is needed.

• Supports video, voice, data and control applications – for file transfer, web browsing, leased line replacement, video surveillance, business and residential connectivity.

• Purpose-built for fixed outdoor applications – outperforms wi-fi-based systems in harsh and noisy outdoor conditions.

• GPS synchronisation to scale from small networks to region-wide deployments – reliability and interference avoidance is key.

• Consistent and predictable throughput – enterprisegrade reliability and good user experiences.

• Low 3 ms latency – ideal for video surveillance, voice and video conferencing.

• High spectral efficiency of 4.5 Mb per Hz – effective use of valuable spectrum.

• Rapid deployment in days – delivering results in short timeframes.

For more information, visit www.cambiumnetworks.com.

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corporate profile

ROEBOURNE LOOKING FORWARD

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ocated at the heart of the Pilbara iron ore and gas industries, the Shire of Roebourne, based in Karratha, Western Australia, includes the towns of Dampier, Roebourne, Wickham, Point Samson and Cossack.

operating expenditure (unlike leased telecommunication services), the Shire’s wireless WAN is critical business infrastructure for maintaining reliable and high-performing IT operations to deliver a quality IT and communications experience to end users.

One of the fastest-growing local government authorities in Western Australia, the Shire employs a workforce of 300 and serves a population of more than 25,000.

At the heart of this network are Cambium Networks’ carrier-grade point-to-point wireless links.

The Shire builds, maintains and runs vital infrastructure and community facilities, such as the recently inaugurated $63 million Karratha Leisureplex (pictured) and the secondbusiest airport by passenger numbers in Western Australia.

The Karratha airport serves 800,000-plus passengers a year, a large proportion of which are fly-in, fly-out workers.

To support this vital infrastructure and these community facilities, the Shire relies on Cambium Networks’ products.

Over the last six years, the Shire has owned and operated its own broadband wireless wide area network (WAN), interconnecting the Shire’s offices and major facilities to support fundamental Information Technology (IT) services, such as network access and data protection.

With a low initial capital expenditure (as opposed to laying copper or fibre alternatives) and negligible ongoing Y • •THE 18 THEAUSTRALIAN AUSTRALIANLOCAL LOCALGOVERNMENT GOVERNMENTYEARBOOK YEARBOOKEDITION EDITION21 21

The network has been engineered to Shire specifications with assistance by specialist provider Solcomm, in order to provide the required high bandwidths and low-latency targets, with carrier-grade availability.

Of particular relevance to the overall solution are wind loading and survivability considerations, given the cyclonic nature of the Pilbara region. Cambium infrastructure has provided years of guaranteed link availability, data security and ease of deployment, even in cyclones.

According to Brad Pezzali, the Shire of Roebourne’s Manager of Information Technology, ‘Cambium Networks’ products are a match for our organisation, with the lowest total cost of ownership allowing the Shire of Roebourne to provide community leadership and excellent local government services in an innovative and efficient way.’

corporate profile

MORETON BAY REGION IN QUEENSLAND, AUSTRALIA To optimise performance, the network was designed with the following parameters: • microwave links that would use both the licensed and unlicensed spectrum • the entire network managed and operated from one central location on one common application • high overall reliability to minimise network downtime for users and also ongoing maintenance costs • the network needed to be scalable to grow gracefully as more video surveillance cameras were added, and more locations were connected to the network.

The network is performing completely as expected.

Each of the 11 links was designed using the Cambium Networks LINKPlanner tool, which enabled MBRC to understand completely what performance would be provided in each location.

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oreton Bay Regional Council has numerous council resources and facilities spread over an area of more than 2000 square kilometres; effective communication systems are vital. In the past, as communications were needed, technology was deployed to meet specific single-purpose needs, but with communication demands becoming more complex – and new facilities and services requiring connection to council systems – new flexible options were required.

Local government today is accessing and processing information more frequently, often using various corporate applications to transfer data between facilities, and storing information in centralised electronic environments. MBRC had a shared network environment, but decided to design and implement a standalone network to improve uplink speeds for the council facilities. CBO Pty Ltd, a Cambium Networks partner in Queensland, Australia, helped council design a high-capacity network that would meet current and future needs.

To connect the different locations, MBRC needed 11 separate links. Where unlicensed spectrum was available, a Cambium Networks PTP 250 was selected. Where licensed microwave was required, PTP 800 links were deployed.

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news

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 16

LGNSW submission calls on New South Wales Government to act now on council-supported local government reform In its submission, Local Government NSW (LGNSW) has called on the New South Wales Government to act swiftly on the many recommendations in the Independent Local Government Review Panel’s final report that have strong support from councils.

LGNSW has now lodged its submission on the Revitalising Local Government report, outlining in detail recommendations for action and support for a number of key areas.

President of LGNSW Cr Keith Rhoades AFSM met with nearly 450 council representatives and staff from 123 councils and five regional organisations of councils (ROCS) to canvass their views on the Revitalising Local Government report.

‘There is strong support among councils for many of the suggested reforms within the Revitalising Local Government report, and we want to see those recommendations implemented as quickly as possible,’ says Rhoades.

‘The first recommendation we would like enacted is a review of the New South Wales rating system, including current inequitable rate exemptions, which reduce council revenue by millions of dollars each year.’

Melbourne launches Victoria state’s first Growing Green Guide The roofs, walls and façades of buildings across Melbourne will be turning all shades of green with the launch of the Australian State of Victoria’s first Growing Green Guide. The Guide gives building owners, planners, designers, developers and home owners vital information so that they can integrate green infrastructure with their buildings, and help manage the impact of a changing climate on the way we live in the city. It is an example of adaptation at a local level, enabling local communities to take action to be more climate resilient.

The Growing Green Guide was the result of three years’ collaborative work between the Cities of

20 • THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21

Melbourne, Port Phillip, Yarra and Stonnington, the University of Melbourne, the Victorian Government, and industry experts. It is designed to assist existing and new buildings to use their roofs, walls and façades to work together with the environment. Green walls, façades and rooftops not only have a visual attractiveness, but also help cool the city and retain stormwater, which can help reduce flash flooding. The guide was made possible by A$250,000 (US$231,500) in funding from the Victorian Government’s Victorian Adaptation and Sustainability Partnership program.

Randwick Council set to invest $68 million in light rail On Thursday 17 April 2014, Randwick City Council released a draft light rail support plan in response to the New South Wales Government’s CBD and South East Light Rail project, which proposes to spend $68 million over five years to increase parking and support the introduction of light rail in Randwick City.

Contained within the plan are a series of recommendations, design revisions and detailed technical drawings in response to the government’s $1.6 billion light rail project, which will run from Circular Quay to Randwick and Kingsford.

Mayor Scott Nash says the support plan is about ensuring that Randwick City gets the most out of the new transport system.

‘We welcome the introduction of light rail in Randwick City, and commend the government on their vision. Our draft plan is about supporting light rail and making sure Randwick City gets the most out of this once-in-a-generation opportunity to revitalise our City,’ Mayor Nash says.

New era of transparency in local government In April, the Victorian Coalition Government announced the commencement of new performance and reporting regulations for the state’s 79 councils.

Minister for Local Government Tim Bull says these reporting reforms are crucial in ensuring that Victorians

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can be confident that their local councils are strong and accountable, and that public money is being invested wisely on high-quality services, infrastructure and facilities for residents and ratepayers.

‘From Tuesday 1 July 2014, the new Performance Reporting Framework will better identify where councils are performing well, where they need to improve, and whether the community is getting value for money,’ Bull explains.

‘Victoria is leading the country in boosting the performance of local government with a strong focus on improving transparency, reducing red tape, removing duplication and modernising reporting to the community.’

The new regulations will benefit ratepayers by: • making councils more accountable for how they spend ratepayers’ money • assisting in improving council efficiencies

University building to remain a public asset Tweed Shire Council will purchase Southern Cross University’s Tweed Heads campus, in Brett Street, in an agreement that will assist both organisations to provide services in the area.

Following endorsement at last night’s Council meeting, representatives of Council and Southern Cross University will sign a Memorandum of Understanding for the sale by the University and the purchase by Council of the Brett Street campus.

Council General Manager Troy Green says the purchase would give Council necessary flexibility in the organisation’s presence in the north of Tweed Shire.

At the same time, the agreement would enable Southern Cross University to continue using a section of the building, as the University progressively moves its operations to its southern Gold Coast campus.

The new regulations will replace 10-year-old rules that sunset over Easter, and will bring a modern approach to reporting for Victoria’s councils.

‘A constructive working relationship between the university and Council, including discussions on the future needs of both organisations, has provided a positive commercial arrangement for both parties, and will bring multiple benefits for the Tweed Shire community,’ Green says.

To read the Local Government Amendment (Performance Reporting and Accountability) Act 2014, effective from Friday 18 April 2014, visit www.parliament.vic.gov.au.

‘The Brett Street campus site will give Council various options in the short and long term, including office accommodation, flexibility in our Contact Centre and library operations, and possible commercial leases.

For more information about the Local Government Performance Reporting Framework and new regulations, visit www.localgovernment.vic.gov.au.

‘The premise, built in 2000, represents three storeys and 3836 square metres of office space, and adjoins our current premises at Tweed Heads. This offers potential for development ideas around a civic and cultural precinct, along with a greater Council presence in the Tweed Heads area.’

• driving downward pressure on rates.

THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21 • 21

corporate profile

GIVE YOURSELF OR YOUR TEAM THE WINNING EDGE with Executive Excellence’s specialised programs Are your members all rowing in the same direction? Or do you personally need a goal?

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dventure... Physical... Mental... Challenge...

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Walking the Kokoda Track in Papua New Guinea, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, ascending to Base Camp Everest, attending a specifically designed and aligned practical leadership program, or re-enacting a famous commando World War II kayak raid on Singapore Harbour – they’d certainly be stories to tell the grandchildren. EE’s adventures are ‘inclusive’; trek supplies, training preparation and planning are all done for you. It’s part of our risk management (RM) to ensue you are well-equipped to complete the activity you signed up for. Our RM processes are used as a benchmark for the industry by a leading Australian insurance company.

Executive Excellence was created by John Miles and Allan Forsyth, both former senior members of the Australian Army, with backgrounds in the Special Air Service Regiment, Infantry and Physical Training.

It is their professional military backgrounds and proactive attitudes that have brought EE to be acknowledged as the most professional company in its field.

The company’s detailed planning, practical leadership and experience, risk management and organisational skills have earned a reputation for EE that has attracted a broad-spectrum client base, ranging from the entire playing and coaching staffs of both the Hawthorn and Brisbane Australian Football League clubs (separately – leadershipand culture-driven), top-level sportsmen and women, David Koch and Channel 7’s Sunrise team, corporations’ senior management teams (culture-, synergy- and leadershipspecific), and, over two years, more than 60 Rotarians with an average age of 60.

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Federal Ministers Joe Hockey, Mal Brough and former Prime Minister Kevin Rudd chose EE for their adventure on the Kokoda Track, as have an increasing number of senior businesspeople, and a man who lost a leg as a boy and another who walked in calipers (both of whom had passed the medical and fitness criteria).

You don’t have to be a daredevil or even a fitness junkie to take up an Executive Excellence Adventure or leadership challenge/program.

Corporate men and women of all fitness levels are stepping outside their comfort zones in environments that push them to new levels of personal achievement.

EE Adventures and specifically designed practical leadership programs have been an enormous success with corporate groups due to the innate sense of accomplishment and bonding you feel when you share this great experience, which lends itself to team-building and leadership. After a few days, all the layers and complexities of everyone’s lives are stripped away, and you get to experience and enjoy the people for who they really are.

Simply put, EE programs assist in developing individuals and collective groups to enhance personal health and development, along with increased performance, in a safe and effective manner.

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Put simply many clients believe our programs help them live their lives as active participants rather than as casual observers.

‘In the context of adventure trekking, I doubt there has ever been, or will ever be, a more thoroughly professional organisation than EE. In a wild and unforgiving environment like the Kokoda Track, there is no room for half measures and in all of the planning, preparation and training, no stone was left unturned by EE in its endeavour to ensure participant safety, preparedness and enjoyment.’ Michael Gibson, Associate Director, Macquarie Bank – ANZAC Kokoda

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best practice

Airwaves connecting community In the South Australian outback mining community of Roxby Downs, communication plays a key role in Roxby Council’s community development strategies. Increasing participation in community activities and reducing social isolation by connecting people to others are fundamental aims of the council’s community team.

L-R: Sasha Yantewo, former staff member Laura Gray, and Kath Messner

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ommunity radio is just one of the media platforms used, but in Roxby Downs there is a difference.

While it is not unusual for council staff in other places to be invited to talk on community radio, staff at Roxby Downs have taken this to a whole new level.

Michelle Hales, Manager Corporate Strategy and Governance, explains, ‘For many years, the Council had a 30-minute slot every Friday afternoon to talk about council business. About 12 months ago, we started questioning whether this was meeting our aims. The session was quite passive – we simply shared information with the radio announcer, and there was limited interaction. We felt that there was an opportunity to have greater control over programming and content.

‘It became clear after some team brainstorming that there was an opportunity for staff to be trained as radio announcers, and to fully program a show each week. The staff recognised that they would need to commit time to this project to make it sustainable, but [they] were prepared to get involved because of the importance of communication in remotely located and isolated communities.’

To reflect the Council’s motto of ‘Young, vibrant community’, The Vibe radio show was born. The driving force of the show has been Community Services

24 • THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21

best practice

If new residents don’t connect with the community, they can often feel socially isolated, which could impact on their physical and mental wellbeing and lead to premature departure from town Manager Kath Messner, and Community Projects Officer Sasha Yantewo. Both women embraced the opportunity to be trained, and are now fully fledged radio announcers on the local community radio station RoxFM. Along with Kath and Sasha, other Community Team members have been trained and upskilled in areas including broadcast law, the Community Broadcasting Association of Australia Code of Conduct, studio operations, radio interviewing skills, how to prepare and present a show, and workplace health and safety.

Every Friday at 1 pm for one hour, The Vibe radio show hits the airwaves, incorporating music, and interviews with local residents or visiting guests, and staff from local organisations including the health service, police, schools and community groups.

‘We have been quite strategic in not badging the show as “the Council show”. It’s pure community and we promote events, activities, new projects and services, and raise awareness about important community issues.

Through this mechanism, we encourage people to participate in and contribute to community life, but in a more subtle way. Community development by stealth, perhaps,’ Hales says.

Whenever there are visiting performers, or guest speakers in town, special effort is made to record interviews for the show. Council matters are treated as

news items, and this supports the Council’s weekly page of news in the local community newspaper, The Monitor.

The Vibe team regularly interviews other members of Council’s Community Team, including the staff involved in business, environment, youth, recreation and library programs. ‘When residents move here, they leave extended family and friends behind, so connecting to community life early helps them to settle in quickly and make a meaningful contribution to the community. The radio is a great medium to connect people to what is happening in the community,’ Hales says.

With a permanent population of over 4500 residents, the town attracts families and is very family-oriented.

The quality of life and excellent facilities of the town make Roxby Downs the perfect place to raise children; however, the geographic isolation comes at a cost.

Residents live away from their extended family and friends. Parents and children miss out on the close interaction with grandparents and other extended family members. With limited intergenerational links, residents rely on community media channels to find out information about support services and community programs. If new residents don’t connect with the community, they can often feel socially isolated, which could impact on their physical and mental wellbeing and lead to premature departure from town. The town also has a high population turnover, so The Vibe show is continually reaching out to new audiences.

There are over 40 different nationalities represented in the community, with many people moving from their countries of origin straight to Roxby Downs. This is a daunting prospect, with many having never lived in Australia before, let alone in a country town located in the outback. The radio show supports new arrivals by sharing information that will assist them to settle into the community quickly and make local connections.

The time commitment per week for The Vibe team is at least one hour for programming and one hour on air. ‘The time spent on the show is definitely worthwhile.

This show has not only enhanced our communication with the community, but it has [also] been a fantastic professional and personal development opportunity for our staff,’ Hales says.

THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21 • 25

corporate profile

AT YOUR SERVICE – COUNCILS GEAR UP FOR THE PRIVATE CLOUD

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he ‘cloud’ represents a way to address increasing IT demands, while more effectively supporting organisations working with flat or shrinking budgets. This is particularly relevant for local government organisations, where IT departments are being pressured to create environments in which services are available ‘on demand’, while also achieving lower costs, better service delivery, and higher-quality IT support for council operations.

Drive IT to the cloud The ‘on-demand’ requirement means that in order to deliver the resources required to run the business in a timely and efficient manner, IT must change how it does its job.

Making IT ‘service-driven’ is a major driver in prompting IT departments to transform their data centres to be more flexible and agile. This approach means decoupling services from the underlying storage infrastructure and compute platforms so that the latter can be deployed and used where and when required in order to meet committed services levels.

Cost is another significant driver of the IT department’s interest in the cloud. There are three elements that are driving IT decision-making:

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• Budgetary constraints – the pressure on the technology team to ‘do more with less’ is a significant factor in the transformation of IT. Limited IT budgets are not new, but they act as a continuing constraint and demand greater efficiency, the optimisation of existing resources, and a limit on new capital acquisitions.

• Pressure to grow return on investment (ROI) – as alignment between IT, business goals and an organisation’s bottom line grows, IT departments are now incorporating capabilities into their data centres to monitor and analyse resource usage. Companies have to ensure they get the most value out of IT in terms of growing the bottom line.

• Stakeholder expectation and competition – many cloud delivery models available are public, and offer cost benefits that rival product offerings from traditional data centre providers. Stakeholders see these public cloud options as a flexible and fast means to bring in new applications and other resources that they require to do their jobs.

Speed, efficiency and cost are the major drivers for interest in the cloud. These benefits are motivating councils to consider one or several forms of cloud delivery to meet the challenges for IT today.

corporate profile

Why the private cloud?

Enterprises have a number of choices in terms of the types of clouds they deploy, and the service delivery models they use. Cloud delivery models include private, public and hybrid clouds.

For a number of reasons, IT prefers to keep corporate applications, workloads and data within the organisation: 1. Despite technologies such as multi-tenancy, access control, security and privacy remain a concern for public clouds.

2. Compliance and governance issues can generally be more effectively addressed when an enterprise has control over its cloud environment.

3. Enterprises can make use of the significant investments in technologies, platforms and skills as they transform into a cloud-based model.

Creating a private cloud is in part transforming data centres from traditional siloed structures into ones that are more agile and flexible.

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Councils must consider organisational and technological issues, and strive towards a service-based, cloud-centric infrastructure, as well as introduce financial models and budgeting processes that improve overall return on investment (ROI).

In moving to a private cloud, IT must also guarantee the continued ability to address legal and compliance requirements, ensuring the continuity of business operations in the event of a disaster.

Virtualisation, or the abstraction of services from underlying infrastructure platforms, is at the heart of the modernised, transformed data centre on which private clouds are built. It provides the flexibility and cost savings for IT managers to reduce their capital expenditure, and create a flexible approach to managing technology applications.

Accountability and costing become ingrained in the way IT delivers services, and new architectures and technologies must be employed to create cloud delivery capabilities.

They must be capable of accommodating new devices, including shadow IT assets that the ‘bring-your-own-device’ phenomenon introduces into the workforce.

corporate profile

Key considerations in deciding which cloud pathway to take include: • Does the infrastructure framework cater for self-service capabilities?

• Does it allow for consolidation of multi-vendor platforms to a virtualised pool of capacity?

• Does it automate your IT management and administrative processes to meet committed service levels, while making IT and stakeholders more productive?

By creating a highly efficient and cost-effective private cloud, local government can better meet the demands of internal stakeholders, while improving service delivery to the community.

Infrastructure upgrade gets the Department of Agriculture and Food Western Australia cloud-ready

challenges without adding new systems. This pointed to a cloud-ready, utility-based computing solution to support the department’s future IT strategy.

The Western Australian State Government’s Department of Agriculture and Food (DAFWA) assists the state’s agriculture, food and fibre sectors to be both sustainable and profitable.

After a detailed review process, DAFWA determined that Hitachi Unified Storage (HUS) 130 with Hitachi TrueCopy replication was best suited to supporting the agency now, and into the future. ‘Business continuity was our first priority, as we wanted automatic failover and then recovery if the failover fails. We had seen a huge growth in data, so we had to plan and scale for unknown volumes.

We now have the capacity and ability to scale up to a petabyte,’ says Manager ICT Operations and Project Manager, Larry Simon.

With a state-wide network of nearly 1200 staff, the agency delivers a diverse range of services and products from 50 locations, covering more than 100 million hectares of agricultural and pastoral production.

To support its shifting focus from research towards knowledge and information services, as well as marketing, agricultural, and food achievements, it engaged Hitachi Data Systems and Gold TrueNorth Partner, Perfekt Pty Ltd, to deliver a reliable IT infrastructure with advanced management and communication capabilities.

With a potential move on the horizon, and space at a premium, it needed to accommodate future data

A look ahead Hitachi’s scalable and flexible data management capabilities allow the agency to move data around easily and take full advantage of the infrastructure’s advanced server virtualisation.

‘With over 95 per cent virtualised servers, we’re now one of the most highly virtualised departments within the Western Australian State Government,’ says Rolf Ulrich, Information Systems Infrastructure Manager.

DAFWA is now future-proofed and able to expand wherever that future leads, particularly into the cloud.

‘We’re now in a position to run our own private cloud,’ Ulrich adds. ‘Technically, there’s not a great difference between public and private clouds, so we’re also capable of catering for suitable co-locators who need a cloud but don’t have the expertise.’

With a great online presence and a capable infrastructure, the agency can better support farmers, researchers and the agricultural industry, as well as the public, in the face of a rapidly changing industry environment, and effectively promote Western Australia as an export and innovation leader.

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best practice

The screen in the 21st century public square The Willoughby City Council Urban Screen The Urban Screen, a large outdoor LCD public screen, is an integral component of The Concourse precinct in Chatswood, Sydney region’s third-largest CBD with extensive retail and commercial facilities, and transport connectivity.

30 • THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21

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he visual display and interactive use of the large screen are strategic elements in positioning The Concourse as a great public space. The screen is designed to bring people together through sharing engaging content that celebrates, educates and entertains. The screen supports establishing a 21stcentury city centre and reinventing concepts of the public square, community hub and public information point.

The inclusion of the Urban Screen in The Concourse project was consistent with Council pursuing a worldclass precinct in the context of strong community support, and assessment of needed civic and cultural facilities. Council was also open to considering emerging forms of place making, and contemplated the meaning

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of civic spaces (Town Hall, Council Chambers, town square and the like) in the contemporary world and in the face of rapid growth in the city centre.

cultural, entertainment and community learning precinct.

The precinct was opened on time and within budget in September 2011, and includes:

The Concourse Urban Screen demonstrates how a medium-sized Council can generate a screen presence similar to those at the Perth Cultural Centre and Melbourne’s Federation Square, both of which were developed by state government resources. The Urban Screen is the first significant council-initiated large screen outside of the immediate vicinity of a capital city CBD.

• a large outdoor LED screen

During 2013, the screen underwent its first full year of operation, presenting an opportunity for Council to share its experience of engagement and place making through screen-based technologies. While not all councils can afford a large new project, all councils can think strategically about the use of their iconic urban space, the programming of such spaces and the contemporary technologies that enhance such programming.

• a 1000-seat concert hall • a 500-seat theatre • a 5000-square-metre library • a 500-square-metre civic pavilion for conferences and events • a 150-square-metre studio • a 150-square-metre rehearsal room • a 92-square-metre art gallery space • open space with areas for performance, recreation and celebration • cafés, outdoor dining areas and quality retail spaces

The Concourse precinct

• a 400-space car park

The Concourse precinct is a $171-million Councilinitiated and -funded project that has transformed an 11,000-square-metre public site into a comprehensive

• two new websites: theconcourse.com.au and visitchatswood.com.au.

Federation Square’s outdoor screen

THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21 • 31

best practice

Council leadership Raising $171 million for capital expenditure from a council with recurrent expenditure of $85 million was extremely difficult. A 10-year funding plan was developed, which included land sales, long-term leases and hypothecation of a number of income sources towards the project. Other challenges included maintaining the vision over four council terms, managing the political differences surrounding the project, and working through the local consequences of the global financial crisis.

Urban Screen objectives

Screen offerings

Effective content management and programming of the screen can help:

The screen operates from 7.30 am until around 11.00 pm on most days. A current program is shown at www.theconcourse.com.au/content/urban-screen.

• draw visitors to The Concourse as the city’s premier public space, acting as a ‘beacon’ • entertain visitors • enhance visitor experience by presenting The Concourse as a lively contemporary space • complement Willoughby’s metropolitan and national key cultural events and celebrations • nurture a 21st-century city centre as people seek new forms of ‘smart’ urban experience, and articulate expectations of a town square • communicate the city’s leadership in contemporary ideas, innovation and community engagement • provide a focal point for media artists, media companies and content suppliers • support The Concourse’s key attractions and tenants, and promote on-site activities.

Urban Screen management The Urban Screen is managed on a daily basis by Urban Screen Productions, a company selected by tender. The Urban Screen steering group meets every fortnight. It comprises Council’s Director Corporate Support, and Performance, Media and Marketing Group Manager, Events Manager, and Urban Screen Productions. The steering group coordinates programming and cross-marketing of promotions and events, and promotes site integration.

32 • THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21

The Concourse Urban Screen has shown thousands of hours of diverse visual materials. The following project snapshots illustrate the effectiveness of the screen, and how it meets some of the sought outcomes.

The Reading Hour, August 2012 Hosted by Juanita Phillips and Morris Gleitzman, The Reading Hour was a call to action for families to ‘share a book with your child for 10 minutes a day, an hour a week’ in an effort to improve reading and literacy skills.

The Reading Hour was broadcast on the Urban Screen and beamed live to the Perth Cultural Centre screen and Melbourne’s Federation Square.

Terrific Tuesdays in 2013 and 2014 The six-week campaign in 2013 aimed to attract a new audience and target families at a quiet time of the week. It offered a whole-of-site experience, providing a restaurant offer, family film, pop-up entertainment and discounted parking. Terrific Tuesdays returned in 2014 with a focus on Japanese anime films to relate to younger people of diverse cultural backgrounds.

Stevie Wright hosting Easy Come, Easy Go, June 2013 Music legend Stevie Wright of The Easybeats hosted a special free screening of the documentary Easy Come, Easy Go.

best practice

19th International Symposium on Electronic Art (ISEA), June 2013 Taking place throughout Sydney, ISEA showcased the best media artworks from around the world and provided a platform for the lively exchange of future-focused ideas. Local people got the opportunity to use interactive creative games on the big screen. Live feeds came to The Concourse from Darwin.

Live streaming Once the 1000-seat concert hall was filled on 28 January 2014 for the celebration of the life of Willoughby’s recently deceased and much-loved Mayor Pat Riley, live streaming of the event went onto the Urban Screen, allowing many more people to witness the tribute. A

promotion of Channel 7’s The X Factor in August 2013 also used the Urban Screen and supported the hire of The Concourse venues for the event.

Awareness of the Urban Screen Research conducted in November 2013 with 700 local and regional residents shows that, moving into its third year, there is a strong awareness of The Concourse among this population. Thirty-eight per cent of the Willoughby-based survey population is aware of the Urban Screen, and 26 per cent had attended a screening.

The Urban Screen was a finalist in the 2014 LGMA NSW Management Excellence Awards in the Major Project category.

THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21 • 33

corporate profile

corporate profile

CYBERCRIME – ARE YOU PROTECTED?

The increasing frequency and data from participating countries severity of cyber attacks, and about communications relating in the impact on businesses, to cybercrime. he term cybercrime applies to a number of criminal can no longer be ignored. With activities, including data and security offences. so much business now carried Cybercrime is fast becoming one of the most significant economic crimes in Australia. Fuelled in part out online and across networks, by the media, cybercrime is one of the most talked-about vital information and web-based emerging risks. applications are becoming Organisations are not only vulnerable to cyber attack, but could also be at risk of breaching the Privacy Act 1998 increasingly vulnerable. Earlier this themselves if they have not secured their confidential data well enough. And this risk will only increase as the rapid year the Australian Government at which technology is changing and advancing leads signed the International Cybercrime pace to ever-increasing sophistication of cyber attacks.

Treaty, which will give law The perception has largely been that cybercriminals mainly attack financial institutions in order to access enforcement agencies access to

T

personal financial information and credit card details.

34 • THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21

THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21 • X

The emerging risks of Cybercrime, can you afford not to act?

Cybercrime is now recognised as one of the top four economic crimes in Australia More than 33% of businesses experienced cybercrime in the last 12 months Too often, business leaders wait until they have sustained a cyber-attack to put a reactive plan into action. This can result in reputation damage and excess costs to the business.

Some facts: • Reputational damage is cited as one of the main reasons cyber-attacks go unreported • 56% of cyber-attacks were from an inside job • Fraud has increased in the Government sector by 24% since 2009*

There are many ways in which organisations can prepare and mitigate Cyber-attacks. If you would like to know more contact: NSW Ron Barnes General Manager T: (02) 9320 2770 E: Ron.Barnes@jlta.com.au

QLD & NT Russell Ditchburn General Manager T: (07) 3246 7503 E: Russell.Ditchburn@jlta.com.au

WA Jonathan Seth General Manager T: (08) 9483 8855 E: Jonathan.Seth@jlta.com.au

SA Gary Okely General Manager T: (08) 8235 6410 E: Gary.Okely@jlta.com.au

VIC Bronson Justus General Manager T: (03) 8664 9314 E: Bronson.Justus@jlta.com.au

TAS Andrew Ralph Branch Manager T: (03) 6234 1697 E: Andrew.Ralph@jlta.com.au

* www.pwc.com/en_GX/gx/economic-crime-survey/assets/GECS_GLOBAL_REPORT.pdf

Jardine Lloyd Thompson Pty Ltd ABN 69 009 098 864 AFS Licence 226827 www.jlta.com.au 3013

corporate profile

corporate profile

However, in today’s business environment, where information is power, no organisation is exempt from the threat of a cyber attack.

to cover cyber exposures. According to a report by the Australian Criminology Institute, the top four types of security incidents companies will experience are:

Local government is responsible for the delivery of services to communities around Australia. Councils collect a significant amount of personal data through rates and approvals among other avenues. Aside from a loss of funding from state and federal, cybercrime is fast becoming an area requiring executive attention.

• malware (including spyware)

As has been highlighted in the media, cases are becoming common for companies without adequate insurance coverage. The 2011 Sony case centred on data loss of more than 100 million customers and ultimately over 50 class actions. Sony relied upon a commercial general liability and excess liability policy. The insurer is denying liability on the grounds that policies have not been triggered as there has been no ‘bodily injury’, ‘property damage’ or ‘personal and advertising injury’ – conditions that would have triggered the policy.

This case is not unique. There are many examples that highlight the inadequacy of traditional insurance policies

36 • THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21

• phishing (online scams) • theft or loss of confidential information • insider misuse of privileges.

Damaging effects The lasting impacts from a cyber attack can be farther reaching than the initial loss of data or immediate financial impact to the business. One of the biggest reasons that cybercrime often goes unreported is that reputational damage accompanies the loss of personal data. As society becomes less tolerant of unethical behaviour, managing and maintaining public trust is of the utmost importance.

Aside from reputational damage, which was cited as the number one concern in the PWC Global Economic Crime Survey Report1, other reported concerns are:

THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21 • Y

corporate profile

corporate profile

Employee training on the risks of exposure to cybercrime will also raise awareness within the organisation and help to prevent attacks from both external and internal sources.

Risk transfer Insuring against security breaches requires more than an extension to a traditional property or liability policy.

Traditional insurance policies were designed long before the arrival of the internet. Even with a cyber-risk extension, they may not cover all the exposures a business could face from a security breach. One of the difficulties facing insurers is the lack of historical data. The potential impact and financial ramifications of a severe cyber attack can be devastating, rendering the cover provided by insurers inadequate.

Typical cyber insurance can cover: • first-party damage to data • business interruption • privacy and security liability, including notification and credit monitoring costs • theft or loss of personal identifiable information • IP theft, including theft of data • services disruption • actual financial loss • regulatory risks • cost of investigation and damage control.

Current mitigation strategies

• brand reputation • cyber extortion • technology professional liability.

However, not all cyber polices will include all these types of covers. When considering risk transfer for cyber attacks, it is recommended that councils seek the advice of a risk and insurance professional to ensure the exposures you face are the ones you are insuring against.

So what can businesses do to mitigate the risk of exposure to cybercrime? Simply having a firewall in place will not suffice. One of the top three causes of cyber attacks comes from insiders with privileged access to systems.

NSW | Ron Barnes | General Manager T: (02) 9320 2770 | E: Ron.Barnes@jlta.com.au SA | Gary Okely | General Manager T: (08) 8235 6410 | E: Gary.Okely@jlta.com.au QLD&NT | Russell Ditchburn | General Manager T: (07) 3246 7503 | E: Russell.Ditchburn@jlta.com.au VIC | Bronson Justus | General Manager T: (03) 8664 9314 | E: Bronson.Justus@jlta.com.au WA | Jonathan Seth | General Manager T: (08) 9483 8855 | E: Jonathan.Seth@jlta.com.au TAS | Andrew Ralph | Branch Manager T: (03) 6234 1697 | E: Andrew.Ralph@jlta.com.au

Responsibility for information security needs to come from executive leaders of businesses. It is important that the company appoints a dedicated security officer who develops and monitors policies and procedures for information security and data management. This should also include oversight of any social media sites used by the company.

Internal risk assessments of current systems, policies and procedures can also reveal weak points, allowing preventative measures to be developed and action to mitigate potential exposures. A regular review of identified risks by senior personnel is recommended.

Z • THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21

1

PWC Global Economic Report

www.pwc.com/en_GX/gx/economic-crime-survey/assets/GECS_GLOBAL_ REPORT.pdf

THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21 • 37

best practice

Geared2Drive Youth Ambassador Brittany Naismith, with volunteer mentor Bill Beumer

Getting youths Geared2Drive An innovative program designed to get young drivers on the road is gaining momentum in regional South Australia.

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rivate transport offers critical links to education, work and social interaction in country areas, but obtaining a driver’s licence is often the biggest roadblock for young people on the journey to independence. Current legislation in South Australia requires learner drivers to clock up 75 hours on the road (including 15 hours at night) under the supervision of a licensed adult before they can test for their provisional licence; but, as many youths are learning, it’s not always easy to find someone to fill the passenger seat. Through its strong involvement with local youth, the District Council of Grant on South Australia’s Limestone Coast became

38 • THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21

aware of several disadvantaged teenagers who were experiencing difficulties accessing co-drivers and cars.

‘Council has a strong commitment to increasing youth engagement within the community by providing safe access to services and programs that support social interaction, and physical and mental wellbeing, and we could see that the barriers to obtaining something as simple as a driver’s licence were putting some teenagers at a real disadvantage,’ says District Council of Grant Chief Executive Officer Trevor Smart. ‘Public transport here is quite limited, so young people really need to get their Ps.’

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Council has a strong commitment to increasing youth engagement within the community by providing safe access to services and programs that support social interaction, and physical and mental wellbeing The council obtained $40,000 in partnership funding support from the Community Benefit SA program to run what initially began as a 12-month regional pilot of Geared2Drive, developed by youth support agency Helping Young People Achieve (HYPA). The program, which is delivered by volunteer mentors, establishes a safe driving foundation by developing basic skills in operating a motor vehicle, along with teaching traffic and driving skills, so that more young people have the opportunity to eventually become fully licensed drivers.

A management working party, which included representatives from professional driving schools, South Australian Police, Regional Development Australia and Grant District Council, developed a training program tailored to regional areas so that participants would be exposed to a range of challenging environments, such as unsealed country roads and high-speed motorways.

Mount Gambier car dealership Barry Maney Group supplied a heavily discounted automatic vehicle fitted with dual brakes for additional safety, and also agreed to help sponsor ongoing car maintenance. Another prominent local business, the Scott Group of Companies, offered fuel discounts.

‘Work then began to recruit and train volunteer mentors to supervise the drivers – each mentor needed to be available for at least two one-hour lessons each week in order to develop a confident

and productive relationship, and had to be 25 years or over,’ says Smart.

Former Tantanoola Pulp Mill Manager Bill Beumer is among the volunteer recruits. The father of five says he felt that it was important to give something back to the community after finishing full-time work, and describes his involvement in Geared2Drive as highly rewarding.

‘You get as much out of it as you put in; each volunteer has an on-road driving assessment to brush up on their skills, and we also completed a classroom road rules refresher to ensure that we know the current rules, which I found really worthwhile,’ he says.

All learner drivers involved in the program are either self-referred or have been nominated by schools and agencies, including Families SA. They are each charged $5 per session in order to contribute to ongoing program costs and encourage ownership, and all participants – including volunteers – are covered by the District Council of Grant’s insurance policy.

‘Once a young person is accepted into the program, they are required to attend a free pre-entry workshop that covers road safety, communication, dealing with peer influence, cooperation and decision-making,’ says Smart. ‘Participants are also encouraged to seek professional driving lessons in conjunction with the Geared2Drive sessions in order to support the learner driving experience and ensure maximum outcomes.’

Participants are also encouraged to seek professional driving lessons in conjunction with the Geared2Drive sessions in order to support the learner driving experience and ensure maximum outcomes THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21 • 39

best practice

Since establishing the program, the Council has facilitated a fundraising campaign to help meet some of the direct costs of getting on the road after it became apparent that some participants were unable to meet the expense of obtaining their provisional licences.

Grants have since been secured from the Stand Like Stone Foundation and the Motor Accident Commission to establish a separate fund to support a LINK program that value-adds to Geared2Drive.

‘Five participants have completed their required 75 hours’ driving experience, with another three scheduled to finish before the end of June. We’ve had 55 participant applications to date, including 26 in 2014, so it’s really starting to gear up,’ says Smart. ‘But the best part of all is the fact that many have now purchased private vehicles and insurance, and have either gone on to further study or gained employment with the assistance of their Geared2Drive experience.’

Grant District Council committed to supporting the Geared2Drive program for an additional six months after the 12-month pilot ended on 31 December 2013. It has prepared a business plan and sponsorship package to target potential funding partners for the continuation of the program in the next financial year.

40 • THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21

Introducing Geared2Drive Youth Ambassador Brittany Naismith Mount Gambier teenager Brittany Naismith was the inaugural youth participant in the District Council of Grant’s Geared2Drive program. As a ward of the state, Brittany lives independently and has been reliant on carers to attend school, part-time employment and social activities. While the former school captain has recorded many exceptional achievements despite a challenging childhood, obtaining a driver’s licence always felt like an impossible goal.

‘Because I’m under guardianship of the Minister, there are a lot of policies and procedures with driving cars with my carers – including insurance problems – so I wasn’t able to have access to a vehicle to get my hours up,’ Brittany says.

Through the Geared2Drive program, Brittany not only obtained a provisional licence, but also gained added confidence when it came to pursuing her dream career.

‘I’ve since moved to Adelaide to study for a Bachelor of Crime and Criminology at Flinders University,’ says Brittany. ‘I want to thank all those people who supported the pilot program, as I wouldn’t have been able to achieve my goals without the Geared2Drive support.’

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A STRONG TRACK RECORD, AND A VISION FOR THE FUTURE

PPG Industries Inc., headquartered in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States, is a global, multi-billion-dollar diversified manufacturer, supplying paints, coatings, chemicals, optical products, specialty materials and glass. Our vision is to continue to be the world’s leading coating and specialty products company, serving customers in industrial, transportation, consumer products, construction and aftermarket industries.

A

s owner-operators, our people share a deep sense of pride and a firm commitment to the company, creating the success and stature we enjoy today. PPG Industries Inc. (PPG) is a publicly owned company with shares traded on the New York Stock Exchange, and operates in over 60 countries around the world. Sales in 2012 were US$15.2

X 42• •THE THEAUSTRALIAN AUSTRALIANLOCAL LOCALGOVERNMENT GOVERNMENTYEARBOOK YEARBOOKEDITION EDITION21 21

billion. With the Australian headquarters based in Clayton, Victoria, PPG Industries Australia have three manufacturing sites nationally, and major sales and supply outlets in all major capital cities of Australia.

Building a strong platform for future growth Since 1883, when PPG was founded as the Pittsburgh Plate Glass Co., the company has grown steadily, and is now a global enterprise with operations in every part of the world. From the late 1990s, we have developed from a North American-centric chemical, coatings and glass business, to become the leading global coatings and specialty products company. Our expansion has been driven by organic growth, targeted acquisitions and divestitures, operational excellence, and a relentless pursuit of innovation. In recent years, this growth has been accelerated by a series of acquisitions, culminating in 2008, with our largest, SigmaKalon, a worldwide coatings producer. Together, these businesses provide PPG with a strong, stable platform for planned future growth in coatings.

PPG Protective and Marine Coatings (PPG), part of PPG’s Performance Coatings’ business segment, is uniquely placed to offer the highest-quality coatings for the protective and marine coatings industries. Whatever your requirements, our proven products and technologies can safeguard a wide variety of assets in the markets we

corporate profile

serve. The knowledge we have gained throughout the world has given us an unrivalled heritage and level of technical expertise: experience that guarantees exceptional products, performance and service.

A truly global organisation No matter the size of your organisation, PPG has the scale and resources to deliver outstanding support, with wellestablished operations in over 60 countries. Our market reach is matched by our production facilities, stock points, shops and sales offices, as well as through an extensive network of distributors, agents and other third parties.

With our focus on total customer satisfaction, you can be assured of the most comprehensive response to meet your requirements.

Our brands PPG Protective and Marine Coatings (PPG) has products that protect customers’ assets in the world’s most demanding conditions and environments. Our exceptional heritage has resulted in a range of brands that are tried and trusted to deliver consistent performance in their given markets. All brands have PPG Protective and Marine Coatings as an endorsement, benefiting from unparalleled levels of experience and expertise in coatings technology. Working closely with our customers, we blend technical and business skills to create solutions to meet

the constantly changing demands in all sectors. As part of PPG Industries, we are uniquely placed to offer a complete service, so you will enjoy the resources, stability and capability of a worldwide organisation. Our business is built on firm foundations, enabling us to provide not only marketleading products and services, but also a level of support unmatched in the market.

Innovation and technology Innovation and technology have been integral to our company’s success throughout its history. It is this focus on technological advancement that has made PPG one of the world’s leading makers of protective and marine coatings.

All our performance-enhancing coating solutions are built on an in-depth knowledge of the industry, our customers’ day-to-day challenges, and the environmental, health and safety standards in the marketplace. By working in close partnership with our customers, we understand the constantly changing demands that they face. So we make it our goal to provide innovative, value-added coatings matching the requirements of the markets we serve, not just for today but also for tomorrow.

For further information, please visit us at www.ppgpmc.com.

THEAUSTRALIAN AUSTRALIANLOCAL LOCALGOVERNMENT GOVERNMENTYEARBOOK YEARBOOKEDITION EDITION21 21• •43 Y THE

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A close-up view of AS/NZS 2009 Type D-HR wet-night-visible (Visimax™) glass beads, applied to waterborne traffic paint on a sprayed-seal road surface.

WHY DO ROAD MARKINGS DISAPPEAR ON RAINY NIGHTS?

H

ave you ever wondered why you are able to see road-marking lines far ahead of your vehicle when you are driving at night? Well, the reason is that embedded into the painted lines are millions of tiny glass beads, each acting as a tiny mirror, reflecting your headlamp beams back to you.

Glass beads with a diameter of 0.3 to 0.4 millimetres have been used on painted markings in Australia for this very purpose since around 1952, and have proven very effective at providing clear road delineation at night-time in dry conditions.

The problem, however, is that once it starts raining, these lines become virtually invisible – at the very time that you need as much visual information as you can possibly get about the roadway ahead. The reason for this is that under wet conditions, the tiny beads become covered in a film of water that effectively stops the light from being reflected back to you.

Reassuringly, this problem can be easily overcome via the use of larger Visimax™ glass beads of approximately one millimetre in diameter (AS/NZS 2009 Type D-HR).

Value Management Study In November 1995, the NSW Roads and Traffic Authority (RTA) (now NSW Roads and Maritime Services, or RMS), at the direction of the State Minister for Roads, commissioned the Department of Public Works and

X 44• •THE THEAUSTRALIAN AUSTRALIANLOCAL LOCALGOVERNMENT GOVERNMENTYEARBOOK YEARBOOKEDITION EDITION21 21

Services Production Evaluation Unit to identify key problem areas, review current practices and examine potential improvement options, so that a strategy could be developed to ensure road delineation would provide all the necessary functions. These functions included the requirement for visible road markings during both day and night conditions, particularly in wet weather.

A representative from the Queensland Department of Main Roads also participated. As a result of this study, one-millimetre wet-night-visible sized glass beads were introduced to the road-marking specification used in New South Wales. In its most recent Specification R145, the RMS now has set a minimum measurable performance requirement for wet-night visibility of longitudinal pavement markings state-wide.

The good news is that this awareness is now spreading through Queensland, with the announcement in June 2010 by the then Minister for Main Roads, The Honourable Craig Wallace MP, that the Bruce Highway and some other major highways are soon to be upgraded with an application of these wet-night-visible sized glass beads. Mr Wallace said that this road safety upgrade initiative was being funded on the basis of the results of extensive road trials conducted in the Townsville district. The Minister added, ‘These new Visibeads will go a long way towards making our roads safer for motorists, particularly at night and during wet weather.’

If you tick 4 one or more of these boxes, you have a serious problem.

Do your glass beads…

Cause regular bead gun blockages and down time due to dust or contamination, such as wood and rag?

Provide low or inconsistent night time visibility (measures of retroreflectivity)?

Clump in the bag, causing waste and loss of productivity?

Pop out of new markings prematurely?

Have high loadings of irrespirable dust, containing high levels of arsenic trioxide and lead?

Not pass the National environmental standards set by the CSIRO and your State Road Authority for heavy metals?

100%ian l Austra

IA, TRAl t S a u h A w IN er IANS, MAde Consid rformance TRAl S e u p A By IANS, ay t the TRAl S impac markings m nd u A led r fOR eCyC * ss a e R in of you % s 0 u b 10 lASS and n your uSING lIANproGducts imported A have o ential health R T t s AuS g some specialitanyd Potters US the po mental risk din UK *exclu otters n from P o envir

Not pass the Quality Standards required

by AS/NZS2009 Glass Beads for pavement marking material?

Not come with a Test Report for each and every individual nominal 1mt pallet.

Some road marking operators, forgetting how good the quality of beads should be, continue to put up with poor performance and downtime, thinking that this is the way it is.

Well… it’s not the way it is!

100–102 Boundary Road Sunshine West VIC 3020 Australia t 613 8325 6777 e glassbeads@potters.net.au

SALT CREATIVE 6130 11/12

best practice

An interior shot of a section of the Hat Factory, which demonstrates the challenge of matching colour and light to Margaret Olley’s original home studio in Paddington, Sydney.

Art on the inside The public’s fascination with the art and life of one of Australia’s mostloved painters lives on at the newly opened Margaret Olley Art Centre at the Tweed Regional Gallery in Murwillumbah, in northern New South Wales.

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he $4.5 million Margaret Olley Art Centre (MOAC) celebrates the career, life and legacy of its namesake, Margaret Olley AO (1923–2011), Australia’s most celebrated painter of still life and interiors.

The Centre – purpose-built as an extension to the Tweed Regional Gallery – honours the express wish of the late Margaret Olley that her artist’s studio and elements of her Paddington, Sydney home and collections be re-created in a suitable venue.

MOAC combines exhibitions of paintings and objects with an interactive multimedia drawing activity, research library and education workshop, and is complemented by the Nancy Fairfax Artist in Residence Studio.

46 • THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21

Central to MOAC is the re-creation of areas of Olley’s famous home studio, principally the Hat Factory, the kitchen and the Yellow Room.

MOAC was officially opened by the (then) GovernorGeneral, the Hon. Quentin Bryce AC CVO, on Saturday 15 March 2014. Since then, around 600 people per day have visited the Gallery, drawing valuable tourist numbers to the Tweed.

Tweed Shire Council’s General Manager, Troy Green, says it is fantastic to see the MOAC drawing consistently large crowds and generating a ‘buzz’ at the Gallery, a community facility of Tweed Shire Council.

‘The addition of MOAC will highlight Council’s cultural programs, become a major tourist attraction and act as an economic driver for the region,’ Green says.

‘The Tweed Regional Gallery was already a great success, but with the addition of MOAC, we can now lay claim to having one of the best regional galleries in Australia, right here in the Tweed.’

Innovation in a unique environment ‘There is nothing like the MOAC in Australia, and no other artist’s studio re-creation on this scale in the world,’ says Gallery Director Susi Muddiman.

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‘It was a big leap of faith for Tweed Shire Council; the architect, Bud Brannigan of Brisbane; and the builders, Gold Coast-based firm Alder Constructions.’

‘In local government, we’re generally good at coordinating infrastructure projects, but this one-off project threw up some entirely new challenges,’ Green says.

Tweed Shire Council let and managed the contract, which included designing and constructing:

‘From a building perspective alone, it was a challenge for the builder to re-create the appearance of an old building and incorporate some of the original fittings, such as doors, window frames and even reinstalling the original kitchen.’

• the Margaret Olley home studio • an artist-in-residence studio • the art gallery extension, including exhibition spaces, additional storage for the permanent collection, an education workshop and a library facility • a major extension to the Gallery’s cafe • an upgrade of the Gallery’s existing mechanical ventilation climate control system to meet industry standards • internal renovations to the retail outlet and staff offices • an airlock to maximise sustainable climatic controls at the Gallery’s entrance.

Council General Manager Troy Green says developing the highly unusual project from an idea to a finished cultural product presented many challenges, particularly in a local government setting.

One of the greatest challenges was packing up more than 21,000 objects from Olley’s house in Paddington, placing them in suitable storage while MOAC was constructed, then painstakingly and faithfully re-creating the rooms in Murwillumbah.

‘The re-creation of Margaret’s home studio needed to be physically accurate in terms of the structure of the building,’ says Muddiman.

‘In many ways, the greater challenge lay in creating a true reflection of the conditions in which she lived – the correct placement of objects, the right colours on the walls, mimicking the light conditions that were so important to her work.’

The Margaret Olley Art Centre has been built as an extension to the Tweed Regional Gallery in Murwillumbah, in northern New South Wales. Architectural panels painted in colours from Margaret Olley’s palette were ‘sold off’ for naming rights as one of the innovative fundraising ideas for the Centre.

THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21 • 47

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The floor for the extension to the Tweed Regional Gallery is poured, before the construction of Margaret Olley’s ‘house’ inside. The building has wonderful views of local Tweed Valley landmark, Wollumbin/Mount Warning.

The project incorporated a number of best practice elements, including: • a state-of-the-art climate control system, which also involved a complete upgrade and overhaul of the airconditioning system and air-handling units servicing the existing Gallery • an LED lighting system in MOAC, as well as a retrofit of existing Gallery spaces. The retrofit process included conversion from leading-edge to trailingedge technology • additional industry-standard collection storeroom facility • multimedia equipment, including iPad stations and touch screens, to facilitate educational outcomes and access for all visitors (for example, visual and non-text -based educational outcomes by provision of intuitive and physically based drawing applications on iPad, and visual recognition inclusions on touch screens) • production and publication of educational resources for children and adults, including an activity-based education publication for younger visitors • best practice conservation and display equipment for exhibition of artwork • best practice cataloguing of Olley House artefacts, soon to be migrated to the Vernon collection management system.

48 • THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21

The genesis of the project came out of the blue in November 2011, when the Margaret Olley Art Trust offered the Tweed Regional Gallery a contribution of $1 million towards the establishment of MOAC, to be housed in a purpose-built extension to the Gallery

A special project in a special place The story of how MOAC came to be created in Murwillumbah – a town of 8000 people in a shire of 85,000 people – is a tale of inspiration, innovation and plain hard work.

The genesis of the project came out of the blue in November 2011, when the Margaret Olley Art Trust offered the Tweed Regional Gallery a contribution of $1 million towards the establishment of MOAC, to be housed in a purpose-built extension to the Gallery.

best practice

Looking into the Hat Factory at the Margaret Olley Art Centre. Installing the home’s original architectural fixtures, such as doors and windows, into a new build was one of the many challenges of the project.

Born in nearby Lismore, Margaret Olley spent many of her childhood years in the Northern Rivers area, including time as a primary school student in Murwillumbah, where her father ran a sugar cane farm.

Olley was fond of the Tweed Regional Gallery and officially opened Stage II of the building in 2006 (then called the Tweed River Art Gallery).

Funding MOAC In November 2011, the federal government announced that it would provide $1 million towards the project through a Community Infrastructure Grant, and then, in August 2012, the New South Wales Government pledged an additional $200,000 through Arts NSW, to be matched by Tweed Shire Council.

Support from the community came through, too, with the Tweed Regional Gallery Foundation Ltd providing $620,000 for the project and $80,000 donated by the Friends of the Tweed Regional Gallery and Margaret Olley Art Centre Inc. Former deputy prime minister Doug Anthony AC CH, and Margot Anthony AM, donated farmland for the extension, in addition to land already donated to construct the Tweed Regional Gallery.

The balance of funding – $1.2 million – was provided

by Tweed Shire Council.

Fundraising to cover the costs of internal fit-out, multimedia equipment, exhibition furniture, furnishings and other necessary items began in earnest in late October 2012. The Gallery, friends and the Foundation have, to date, raised additional funds of approximately

$100,300 towards the project, with a further $29,800 in pledges.

Private donors have also added to the success of the project, such as art patrons Tim Fairfax AC and his wife, Gina. Tim’s mother, Nancy, was a great friend of Margaret Olley, and the artist-in-residence studio is named in her honour.

‘The fundraising activities we have undertaken and presented during the last two years have been nothing short of extraordinary in their number and success,’ says Muddiman.

These imaginative activities included bus tours to the ‘secret’ location where the contents of Olley’s house were kept in storage, and the ‘Purchase a Panel’ project, in which exterior architectural panels were sold off for naming rights.

Muddiman says of the community’s involvement, ‘The generosity of individuals and families never ceases to amaze me, and it is testament to the public’s love of Margaret and her artistic practice that has driven this major project forward.’

The Margaret Olley Art Centre is located in the Tweed Regional Gallery, 2 Mistral Road, Murwillumbah South.

For more information, visit artgallery.tweed.nsw.gov.au/ or www.tweed.nsw.gov.au.

THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21 • 49

corporate profile

MORE THAN JUST PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT

A

s a leading manufacturer, BOC understands the importance of maintaining a safe working environment for our employees. Safety is a part of our culture – it’s 100 per cent of our behaviour, 100 per cent of the time.

BOC is a member of The Linde Group, a leading global gases and engineering company that serves customers in more than 100 countries worldwide. The company develops safe and sustainable solutions for customers in many specialty sectors, heavy industry and medical environments.

With more than 2000 employees in the South Pacific, our vision is to be the leading global gases and engineering company, admired for our people who provide innovative solutions that make a difference to the world.

Central to our success is our commitment to the values of safety, integrity, sustainability and respect.

BOC services over 400,000 customers through 40 product facilities and has a retail network that covers around 80 outlets with more than 1000 agents and equipment partners.

BOC provides safety equipment and gas products, as well as a breadth of technology services and solutions to manufacturing, hospitality, medical, agricultural, refrigeration and packaged chemicals industries. In addition to this, BOC provides process gas-related solutions to customers in the food, metal, petrochemical, oil refining, minerals and other process industries.

More than 70 years of experience in Australia and New Zealand has given BOC a unique understanding of the safety issues that impact on these industries.

Working in partnership with our customers, BOC creates tailored safety solutions to increase productivity and reduce potential safety risks. From personal protective equipment (PPE) to safety awareness training and expert advice, BOC can develop a complete safety solution for your business.

X 50• •THE THEAUSTRALIAN AUSTRALIANLOCAL LOCALGOVERNMENT GOVERNMENTYEARBOOK YEARBOOKEDITION EDITION21 21

Safety. It’s more than just a layer of

clothing — it’s a way of thinking...

At BOC, we believe we are more than just a supplier of safety products. As a leading supplier of gases and industrial products in the South Pacific, BOC understands and is genuinely committed to ensuring safety assurance — so just as we protect our own people, you can count on our reputation and commitment to help protect yours.

Whether you’re talking personal protective equipment for the head, face, hand and foot as well industrial workwear, gas safety equipment, or safety awareness training — we’re there. BOC can tailor a complete safety solution for you.

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You can count on our reputation and commitment to service and safety because your business is important to both of us.

To find out more, call 1300 723 378 or visit boc.com.au

BOC Limited

Riverside Corporate Park 10 Julius Avenue, North Ryde, NSW 2113 Australia contact@boc.com | boc.com.au | 1300 723 378 BOC is a trading name of BOC Limited, a Member of The Linde Group. © BOC Limited 2013. MP13-0281|ML|ALGY2014|0813

A Member of The Linde Group

best practice

Interview with Councillor Dr Michelle Byrne, Mayor of The Hills Shire Winner – Minister’s Award for Women in Local Government, Elected Representative – Metropolitan

Can you tell us a bit about The Hills Shire?

Michelle Byrne (MB): The Hills Shire is one of Australia’s fastest-growing local government areas, on the fringe of suburban and semi-rural Sydney. We have one of Australia’s largest and fastest-growing professional employment centres at Norwest Business Park, and we are about to get further connected to the rest of Sydney with the long-awaited $9 billion North West Rail Link.

It’s a great time to be living or working in the Sydney Hills – a region that is changing, yet maintaining its character as a safe, friendly and desirable place to be.

What do you enjoy most about your role as Mayor of The Hills Shire Council?

MB: I love the diversity of the job and the strong connection I have with the community. You could be 52 • THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21

doing anything from discussing planning matters, to allocating grants to community groups, visiting schools, building roads, organising events and dealing with the daily challenges that only arise in local government.

What are some of the major challenges that you face as Mayor?

MB: The biggest challenge would have to be managing future growth. We are expecting an additional 100,000 residents over the next 25 years, and we want to provide an additional 50,000 jobs. The area will change, but we want to maintain our character and preserve what people love about the Sydney Hills. That will definitely be a challenge, but I think we are on the right track.

best practice

What do you think are the major factors that contributed to you winning the award for Elected Representative from a Metropolitan Council?

MB: It was a very humbling experience that I certainly didn’t expect, but I think it may have been my passion for community organisations and events like the Hills Relay for Life. I’m also not afraid to speak out on certain local government matters, including matters that other Mayors prefer to sweep under the carpet, so maybe that’s why I stood out.

Can you tell us about the role of women in local government, and how you think it’s progressing?

MB: There’s no point skirting around the fact that traditionally, local government has been a bit of a boy’s club. But we are seeing more and more female mayors in Sydney, more female managers and more women in traditionally male-dominated fields, like planning, engineering, construction and development assessment.

We are chipping away at stereotypes, and I think sooner or later, we won’t even think about industries being male- or female-dominated.

What do you think are the most important considerations for Australian local governments currently? What needs to change, and what is being done well?

MB: In New South Wales, we face a real test of our determination to remain viable and sustainable. Our current system of 152 councils isn’t working. We’ve got a situation in Sydney where Mayors see their council areas as their personal fiefdoms that they don’t want to give up. We need to rationalise the number of councils in New South Wales, or else we’ll die a slow death. I think the main advantage that local government has over other levels of government is our ability to act quickly and work with the community for better outcomes.

We’re also much more accessible to the community.

We need to rationalise the number of councils in New South Wales, or else we’ll die a slow death Are there any particular initiatives at The Hills Shire that you think other councils could learn from?

MB: Council has a continuous improvement culture that has served us well in dealing with issues in the Sydney Hills. We never settle for the status quo, and we are always looking to do things better and more efficiently.

We also live within our means, which is a big challenge for many councils – but it’s an important principle that I think gets forgotten.

What legacies would you like to leave from your time as Mayor?

MB: I want to be remembered as the Mayor who managed future growth, connected the community and helped build a better quality of life for the residents of the Sydney Hills.

What plans do you have in place for the future of The Hills Shire community?

MB: We want to further connect the community by working with the New South Wales Government to deliver the infrastructure that this growing Shire truly needs.

THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21 • 53

corporate profile

CLEAN SOLUTIONS FOR OUTDOOR PEST CONTROL Using state-of-the-art technology, our products control pests indoors and out, employing innovative solutions in perimeter treatment, zone application, targeted baits and population control.

Controlling termites with ALTRISET Termites target thousands of homes and buildings every year, causing over A$1 billion worth of damage – damage that most insurance doesn’t cover. In fact, research shows termites attack around one in four of all Australian homes at some stage. Termites can be a major problem for council buildings and utilities. There are many termite products out there, but no other termite control product has the unique benefits of ALTRISET termiticide.

S

yngenta is a global company that, through world-class science and a commitment to customers, aims to increase crop productivity, protect the environment and improve health and quality of life. Syngenta Lawn & Garden is devoted to contributing to a healthier and more beautiful world. We do this through products and programs that provide solutions to often complex problems. Our ambition is to enrich lives by making our living environment inspiring and healthy. Our business is closely aligned with, and as diverse as, the responsibilities of local governments. We understand that local governments are largely responsible for providing their communities with areas that people can enjoy and connect positively with. We can assist local governments with public health solutions, help improve turf and landscape areas to enhance recreation or formal events, and even provide bedding plants that contribute to more beautiful surroundings.

Syngenta Professional Pest Management is a division of Lawn & Garden that focuses on innovative products and effective solutions for the management of insect and rodent pests. Demand for pest management products is being driven by factors such as economic growth and urbanisation, which places increased pressure on the utilities that you manage.

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ALTRISET is innovative chemistry that has minimal impact on the environment and community due to its unique mode of action when controlling termite infestations. ALTRISET is the only liquid termiticide that is exempt from poison scheduling, which means your pest manager does not need to wear protective clothing. Due to our ongoing commitment to product stewardship, we have an ALTRISET Accreditation Program that we recommend users of the product attend free of charge. Simply contact your local ALTRISET distributor (Agserv, Globe or Garrards), or Syngenta directly, to arrange a training program. ALTRISET is only available to certified timber pest management professionals to ensure that the treatment is carried out correctly.

Syngenta Lawn & Garden offers a range of innovative solutions for professional environmental and facility managers.

Our range of products include the latest chemistry, some of which is even exempt from poison scheduling whilst still achieving the highest level of performance in various situations ranging from termite control to weed control and bedding plants genetics.

Our products are supported by a team of dedicated specialists that work closely with government agencies, designing programs and solving problems to ensure positive and sustainable outcomes are achieved.

FLAME_SYN1064_12/13

For more information regarding Professional Pest Management or Turf and Landscape Solutions contact Syngenta on 1800 022 035 or visit www.syngenta.com.au

Syngenta Australia Pty Ltd, Level 1, 2-4 Lyonpark Road, Macquarie Park NSW 2113. ABN 33 002 933 717. Ž Registered trademark of a Syngenta Group Company. ™Trademark of a Syngenta Group Company.

All products written in uppercase are registered trademarks of a Syngenta Group Company. AD 13/833

corporate profile

corporate profile

Ant control

Cockroach control

Ants are social animals and live in large colonies. They don’t cause direct damage in their own right but their presence can severely compromise premises, your reputation and your staff’s ability to work.

Cockroaches are one of the most common commercial pests. They feed on and can cause significant damage to goods and foodstuffs. They have the potential to impact human health through the transfer of disease and their link to allergic reactions, such as asthma.

Our ant products, OPTIGARD Ant Bait Gel and ADVION Ant Gel have been developed to be highly palatable to a broad range of ant species. They don’t kill the ants immediately, but allow the ants that come into contact with the product to take it back to the nest and spread the toxicant through the nest, thereby eliminating the queen and the colony.

ADVION Fire Ant Bait has recently been registered by the Australian Pesticides and Veterinary Medicines Authority (APVMA) to provide a baiting solution for those areas where red imported fire ants are found in south-east Queensland.

ADVION Cockroach Gel is highly palatable to cockroaches and very easy to use. You simply place the bait where cockroaches will harbour and the unique mode of action will cascade through the colony, eliminating the pests from the area. When combined with ARILON Insecticide, you can be guaranteed quick and total control of all pest cockroach species found in Australia.

Our pest management solutions aim to provide the most effective control of a pest problem while not endangering the environment or the community. Our approach is to target pests specifically and offer a low-toxicity solution that provides the highest level of efficacy. Our products are routinely used by professional pest management companies around Australia. A number of our products are certified

by Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) for use in food handling areas, which highlights the innovative nature of the chemistry we offer.

For more information regarding Syngenta Professional Pest Management, please contact our Technical Manager, Richard Murray, via email: Richard.murray@syngenta.com or via mobile: 0428 274 069.

Rodent control Rodents can cause significant damage to goods, foodstuffs and buildings. They are well-known carriers of disease and can cause immediate loss of customer and employee trust.

The cost of control can be significant, so preventing them in the first place should be the aim.

TALON XT Pro and TALON Pellets offer a fast and effective way of controlling rodent infestations. The baits can be placed and monitored in a preventative mode to ensure that rodents do not inhabit an area. This is particularly important for remote sheds and toilet blocks that may not be used regularly and where rats and mice can often infest. All TALON rodent products must be used inside a bait station to ensure they are not eaten by nontarget animals.

56 • THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21

Syngenta Turf and Landscape, another division of Lawn & Garden, has a number of products using the latest innovations in turf and landscape management. Our products are specifically designed to make little impact on the environment while providing the highest level of efficacy in insect and weed control. Our specialist team consists of PHD- and university-qualified horticulturalists and turf managers who can assist with maintenance programs to improve the quality of your sports turf surfaces.

Well maintained sports turf surfaces not only provide a more aesthetically pleasing place for communities to play sport, they also reduce the risks of injury to players. Our products and programs are designed to maximise turf coverage, reduce mowing and to provide surfaces that teams will want to play on.

THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21 • Y

corporate profile

Combined season-long pre-emergent weed and grub control The timing of pre-emergent herbicides in early spring coincides with the application timing of preventative grub control. By combining two of our products, BARRICADE Turf Herbicide and ACELEPRYN Turf Insecticide, you can achieve up to six months’ control of pre-emergent weeds and damaging insect grubs. A tank mix of BARRICADE and ACELEPRYN applied in early to mid-September will deliver season-long control of weeds and insects, including crabgrass, crowsfoot grass, summer grass, Parramatta grass, African black beetle larvae, billbug larvae and caterpillars. These two products have the added benefit of being exempt from poison scheduling, so they provide excellent turf safety and quality turf surfaces.

corporate profile

turf industry, combining innovative, commercially viable and environmentally responsible ways for turf managers to achieve consistently high levels of turf quality.

For more information regarding Turf and Landscape, please contact our Technical Manager, Dr Mark Walker, via email: mark.walker@syngenta.com, or mobile: 0408 462 622.

Finally, Syngenta Flowers offers the widest range of pot and bedding plants in the industry. Every year, Syngenta produces over 500 million cuttings, over five million grams of seeds and one billion young plants. We are the number one genetics supplier in four of the six best-selling crops worldwide – geraniums, pansies, impatiens walleriana and chrysanthemums – which together account for some 60 per cent of the flowers genetics market. Other core crops include poinsettia, New Guinea impatiens, begonia, cyclamen and petunia. For over 140 years, Syngenta has led the way in applying innovative technology and breeding techniques to the benefit of professional growers and to the delight of the hobby gardener.

Syngenta Flowers breeds for colour, shape, size, longevity and resistance to drought and bacteria. Our breeding efforts have led to an offering that is second to none in the flowers industry.

Maintaining quality surfaces economically with growth regulation Mowing to maintain turf surface quality and evenness is a significant drain on council finances and human resources.

The incorporation of PRIMO MAXX into your turf management program can assist in cost-effective management of mowing heights and surface quality throughout the growing season.

PRIMO MAXX Turf Growth Regulator will promote greener, denser, more resilient turf, with less vertical leaf growth and fewer clippings. All of these outcomes directly influence surface quality and player experience, while reducing management costs and capital requirements.

Syngenta has an ongoing commitment to creating specialist turf management solutions and services for the Z • THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21

For more information regarding Syngenta Flowers, please contact Ross Dunne via email: ross.dunne@syngenta.com, or mobile: 0409 499 925.

THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21 • 57

best practice

Waste not Illegal dumping of waste on footpaths is an issue that many councils across Australia face.

T

he City of West Torrens in South Australia has been tackling this issue in a unique way: by adopting an illegal dumping strategy that publicly draws attention to waste that has been dumped on footpaths.

The council has been implementing its strategy for almost three years, and in that time it has seen a returnto-property of illegally dumped material by 65 per cent.

Not only has this saved the council money by not having to collect and recycle the material, but residents are also learning that dumping waste is an illegal practice.

The strategy undertaken by the City of West Torrens sees council officers identify illegally dumped items by taping them up with black and yellow high-visibility tape, and then letterboxing leaflets to residents in the street regarding the illegally dumped waste. The high-visibility tape gives the impression of a crime scene and draws attention to the fact that dumping is an illegal practice, and the information provided to residents outlines the penalties involved.

58 • THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21

best practice

‘The campaign has had great success; and as a result, we’re getting more enquiries from residents about how they can get rid of their unwanted items correctly,’ says City of West Torrens Chief Executive Officer Terry Buss.

The second part of the strategy involves educating the local community on how they can recycle their unwanted goods, with the council even providing a range of free and subsidised disposal options. These include vouchers to dump a free trailer-load of unwanted goods at their local waste transfer station, and free electrical items recycling throughout the year. The Council also provides its residents with free mattress and sofa collection services, which are among the most frequently dumped illegal items.

Before we adopted this strategy, we were spending in excess of $250,000 annually on collecting illegally dumped waste time of year that this occurs may not be suitable for everyone; especially those who may be relocating to a new home.

‘This problem is not unique to our council; it’s an issue for councils across the nation,’ Buss says.

‘So, our other options, such as free trailer-loads of waste disposal, sofa and mattress collections, and free electrical waste recycling, provide alternatives for these residents.’

‘Before we adopted this strategy, we were spending in excess of $250,000 annually on collecting illegally dumped waste. This involved more than 160 tonnes of material.

In 2013, the City of West Torrens’s illegal dumping strategy was recognised with honours at the Institute of Public Works Engineering Australia (IPWEA) South Australian Division annual award ceremony.

‘Our council has always offered a once-a-year hardwaste collection service, but we understand that the

The strategy was honoured in the ‘Excellence in Waste Management’ category.

THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21 • 59

corporate profile

RY BATTERIES CENTURY

BATTERIES

RONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY PARTNER YOUR ENVIRONMENTAL

SUSTAINABILITY PARTNER

L

ocal governments throughout Australia are recognising the importance of adopting sustainable practices to reduce their day-to-day environmental impacts and encouraging resident participation in council green initiatives. Partnering with local suppliers who are committed to environmental and economic sustainability is critical.

in managing the risks associated with ULABs, Century Yuasa Batteries has a national battery recycling scheme dedicated to providing our customers with a hassle-free storage and collection service.

with a focus on assisting councils in their quest for sustainable practices in local government. With the future in mind, Century Yuasa has developed a revolutionary new range of batteries that can help fleet managers and council workshops bring down their fuel costs and avoid expensive vehicle downtime.

recycling of used batteries.

systems, Century Ultra Hi and Hi Performance batteries, featuring revolutionary ‘Smart Drive’ technology, can reduce fuel consumption and vehicle emissions by up to two per cent.

infrastructure and resources to collect and recycle their used batteries correctly.’

ernments throughout Australia recognise the importance of adopting sustainable reduce their day-to-day environmental impacts and encourage resident participation in Allan Woodford, Marketing Manager of Century en initiatives, partnering with local suppliers who areAutomotive committed environmental Yuasa’s division,to says: ‘As a responsible and business, it is important that we manage the ‘cradle-toustainability is critical. cradle’ process of manufacture, distribution and efficient Century Yuasa Batteries is looking toward the future

‘In many cases, we have found that people are battery manufacturer and supplier Century Yuasa Batteries is one such organisation, simply unaware of how or where to dispose of their used batteries correctly, and as a result we often see batteries environmental sustainability, offering businesses and local councils a ‘cradle-to-cradle discarded with household waste, at local refuse sites or dumped on roadsides. Century Yuasa’s used lead acid r all their power needs. battery collection scheme provides local councils with the When fitted to vehicles with regulated charge control

s been manufacturing batteries in Australia since 1928, and in this time has developed a Council workshops and waste transfer stations can become partworking of a nationalconditions. network of 1150 As a tteries better suited to Australia’s harsh climateregister and toextreme Century Yuasa Battery Recycling Centres. Century Yuasa Suitable for cars, four-wheel drives, trucks and light will partner with councils in marketing and education commercial vehicles, Century Drive’ Batteries at is continually focused on‘Smart reducing theirareenvironmental impact, and that of their designed to take full advantage of the charging capabilities programs that ensure residents recycle their ULABs properly and return them to a can nominated offered

by RCC (regulated charge control) systems.

RCC entury has developed a revolutionary new range of batteries that helpCentury localYuasa councils, Battery Recycling Centre. systems charge the battery with a high-current flow at the optimal time, when there reduced load onreduce the engine,fuel consumption and cut vehicle emissions by gers, plant operators andis motorists resulting in fuel savings and emission reductions. Ordinary er cent.batteries are unable to take advantage of this important feature and may suffer accelerated degradation due to the high-current environment of RCC systems.

m over 85Asyears of manufacturing expertise, Century Ultra Hi and Hi Performance any workshop manager knows, hazards around the workshop make for a stressful and dangerous eaturingenvironment. revolutionary ‘Smart Drive’ Technology, have been designed to reduce fuel Used Lead Acid Batteries (ULABs) cluttering up space in a busy workshop are one such hazard, which, n and cut emissions by upto cause to two per cent when used in vehicles fitted with if notvehicle managed well, have the potential significant environmental and safety issues. To aid our customers harge control systems.

60• •THE X THEAUSTRALIAN AUSTRALIANLOCAL LOCALGOVERNMENT GOVERNMENTYEARBOOK YEARBOOKEDITION 21 21 cars, four-wheel drives, trucks and lightEDITION commercial vehicles, Century ‘Smart Drive’

corporate profile

market value and is 98 per cent recyclable. The lead, acid and plastics can all be re-processed and used in the manufacture of new products, and through its national recycling scheme, Century Yua is in a unique position to offer councils an alternative revenue stream.

Allan Woodford, Marketing Manager of Century Yuasa’s Automotive division says: ‘A responsible business, it is important that we manage t ‘cradle-to-cradle’ process of manufacture, distribution an efficient recycling of used batteries.

In many cases we have foun that people are simply unaware of how or where to dispose of their used batteri correctly, and as a result we often see batteries discarde with household waste, at loc refuse sites or dumped on road sides. Century Yuasa’s used lead acid battery collection scheme provides local councils with the infrastructure and resources to collect and recy their used batteries correctly.’ The Century Yuasa Battery Recycling Program provides organisation Fuel and savings,to less fleet downtime, a As a registered Century Recycling with Yuasa a free Battery used battery collection service, andemissions with processes alleviate the environmental issue comprehensive product range, a dedicated recycling Centre, workshops are supplied with building signage regulatory withplus thesupport handling storage used lead acid batteries. program, fromand locally placedofbattery and a dedicated ULABand collection bin. Arequirements Century Yuasa associated specialists it’s easy tofree see why Century Batteries is the representative will collect accumulated ULABs when they Century Yuasa collection bins and signage are– provided of charge. deliver new batteries. Each ULAB has a value relative leading provider of power solutions throughout Australia. to the amount of lead contained in each battery, and Participating organisations can earn revenue to subsidise the cost of new battery purchases, or Century Yuasa will credit the customer’s trading account payment forofaULABs commercial quantity of used lead acid batteries. after each collection toreceive the value of quantity collected. Account credits can be used to offset the cost of new battery purchases, or councils receive directstewardship seriously, and continually strives to decrease its Century Yuasacan takes product payment for commercial quantities of ULABs.

environmental footprint and to adhere to sustainable manufacturing processes. Century Yuasa’s

Century Yuasa takes product stewardship seriously, commitment to sustainability and best manufacturing practice has attracted many of Australia’s and continually strives to decrease its environmental footprint and to adherelargest to sustainable manufacturing companies, including Telstra, Supercheap Auto, Komatsu, Ausgrid and Powerlink, all of wh processes. Century Yuasa’s commitment to sustainability rely on Century Yuasa to supply new batteries and collect, transport and recycle their used lead ac and best manufacturing practice has attracted many batteries.including Telstra, of Australia’s largest companies, Supercheap Auto, Komatsu, Ausgrid and Powerlink, all of which rely on Century Yuasa supply new batteries and Local to councils can nominate waste transfer stations to become one of a national network of 1150 collect, transport and recycle their used lead acid batteries.

Century Yuasa Battery Recycling Centres. Century Yuasa will partner with councils in marketing an

Recognising the importance of locally placed battery education programs that ensure residents keep used lead batteries out of landfill, roadside and specialists, Century has developed an extensive network of regional agents andbushland. metro distribution centres that spans the length and breadth of the country. This network ensures access to locally held products battery of locally placed Recognising the and importance specialists on hand to service your complete power specialists,initiatives.

Century has developed an requirements and drivebattery local sustainability

extensive network of regional agents and metro distribution centres that spans the THE THEAUSTRALIAN AUSTRALIANLOCAL LOCALGOVERNMENT GOVERNMENTYEARBOOK YEARBOOKEDITION EDITION21 21• •61 Y

corporate profile

A TRADITION OF EXCELLENCE AND INNOVATION

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uilt on a tradition of excellence forged in the cauldron of international motorsport, the Audi name has become synonymous with the highest standards in automotive design, engineering and innovation. A brand revered for its leading-edge performance and innovative technological advancements for more than 100 years, Audi has always challenged the established conventions of the automotive world. The brand with the four rings pushes the parameters of design and performance, refining safety and efficiency to produce prestige cars that not only capture the imagination... but also excite the spirit.

Few companies have managed to combine timeless design with leading-edge technology so effectively, creating vehicles that have changed the landscape of the automotive world and profoundly influenced the evolution of modern vehicles.

Automotive icons like the Audi TT have cemented the brand’s reputation as a design leader. Hailed as a triumph from the first concept vehicle, the TT is instantly recognised around the globe today and has not only garnered countless awards, but has also inspired a legion of imitators.

Audi has become known for creating vehicles at the forefront of cutting-edge design. The Audi R8 supercar clearly demonstrates the importance of Audi’s design ethos – perfectly married to outstanding engineering – winning both World Car of the Year and Design Car of the Year in addition to the numerous accolades for performance and handling.

62• •THE X THEAUSTRALIAN AUSTRALIANLOCAL LOCALGOVERNMENT GOVERNMENTYEARBOOK YEARBOOKEDITION EDITION21 21

From its very beginnings, the Audi brand has not only been a force in international motorsport, but has also continuously used this arena to develop, test and showcase its new technology: from revolutionary race-car design in the 1930s, to complete dominance of world rally through the 1980s with Audi quattro all-wheel drive – a system so successful globally that the name ‘quattro’ has become part of the automotive lexicon.

Audi was the first to develop diesel direct injection for car engines (Audi TDI), the first to win the coveted 24 Hours of Le Mans with a diesel-powered race car, then the first to win the endurance classic with a hybrid race car. Indeed, the brand will once again line up as defending champion with its latest incarnation of the Audi R18 hybrid race car, looking to take its 13th victory in 15 years.

In Australia, too, the Audi name and reputation are well known and established at the top of the premium ranks. Here, the brand has built extraordinary support in what is one of the toughest automotive markets in the world, in the last nine years alone producing record, year-on-year growth.

An undisputed leader in the automotive world and driven by a relentless pursuit of excellence, those same core values that defined the brand in the beginning remain at the heart of Audi today and provide the inspiration for the future.

Audi accelerates the evolution of diesel.

With 650Nm of torque and 230kW of power, the Audi A6 Biturbo is Australia’s fastest diesel sedan.* The Audi Biturbo engine combines the powerful torque of a diesel with the seamless response of sequential turbochargers to deliver astonishing acceleration. It’s an evolutionary leap in the development of diesel. Experience the incredible power of Biturbo in the sophisticated Audi A6 and the award-winning Audi A7 Sportback.

Test drive the Audi A6 Biturbo and the Audi A7 Sportback Biturbo today.

Visit your preferred Audi Dealer or audi.com.au

*Source: JATO, January, 2013.

best practice

The ‘clean and green’ island gets a $500,000 solar boost Kangaroo Island’s reputation as a clean and green island has received a solar boost with the opening of the $500,000 Visible Solar Project in February 2014.

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he Visible Solar Project, by the Kangaroo Island Council and Regional Development Australia (Adelaide Hills, Fleurieu and Kangaroo Island), was funded by the South Australian Government’s RenewablesSA program, with Kangaroo Island chosen to be the ‘visible demonstration of advanced solar power technology’.

A state-of-the-art, dual-axis solar array system (comprising four Mecasolar trackers) was installed at the Kangaroo Island Airport; the solar arrays track the sun, thereby increasing the energy output by 40 per 64 • THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21

In an added bonus – and within the budget – the Kangaroo Island Council was also able to install a 14-kilowatt solar power system at the Kingscote Town Hall to offset its power bill there...

best practice One of the four dual-axis solar arrays and the three Nissan Leaf electric vehicles at Kangaroo Island Airport.

For anyone wishing to hire one of the electric vehicles at the Kangaroo Island Airport, please contact 0427 887 575.

The electric vehicles are fuelled by green energy, and are ‘sign wrapped’ to proudly promote and educate the public and visitors to Kangaroo Island about the benefits of renewable energy cent compared to a fixed system, and generate 100,000 kilowatt hours per year – enough to power 13 homes.

The array’s output powers 80 per cent of the needs of the Kangaroo Island Airport, saving the Kangaroo Island Council at least $24,000 per year in power bills.

In an added bonus – and within the budget – the Kangaroo Island Council was also able to install a 14-kilowatt solar power system at the Kingscote Town Hall to offset its power bill there, install infrastructure to recharge electric cars (at the airport, Kingscote, Penneshaw, Parndana and American River), and lease

Cutting the Ribbon: Ann Ferguson, Chairperson, Regional Development Australia (Adelaide Hills, Fleurieu and Kangaroo Island); Geoff Knight, CEO, Department for Manufacturing, Innovation, Trade, Resources and Energy, and Mayor Jayne Bates OAM, Kangaroo Island Council.

THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21 • 65

best practice

three Nissan Leaf electric vehicles, two of which can be hired by the public.

The electric vehicles are fuelled by green energy, and are ‘sign wrapped’ to proudly promote and educate the public and visitors to Kangaroo Island about the benefits of renewable energy.

The project was officially opened by Geoff Knight, CEO of the South Australian Department for Manufacturing, Innovation, Trade, Resources and Energy; Mayor Jayne Bates OAM, Kangaroo Island Council; and Mayor Ann Ferguson, Chairperson, Regional Development Australia (Adelaide Hills, Fleurieu and Kangaroo Island).

One of the six Charge Points located at five different sites across Kangaroo Island.

66 • THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21

Mayor Bates said the project had major environmental benefits, but was also delivering a financial dividend to the community. ‘It’s a terrific project and part of this island’s quest to generate more of its own electricity

best practice

Environmental, financial and community benefit The Visible Solar Project delivers a range of environmental, financial and community benefits, including: • use of renewable energy to offset energy consumption at the Kangaroo Island Airport and Council Office • use of renewable energy to fuel emission-free electric vehicles • environmental benefits through reducing reliance on the use of fossil fuels, and exporting excess solar energy to the grid • financial savings through use of renewable energy – both in the energy costs associated with the Kangaroo Island Airport and the Council Office, and also in substituting fuel costs for vehicles with renewable energy • a small revenue stream for Council through the leasing of electric vehicles and the sale of ‘fuel’ at the various electric vehicle charging stations • longer-term community promotion, education and awareness – leading to potential future community-based investment into renewable energy • opportunity for value-added business investment into renewable energy on Kangaroo Island through potential expansion of the existing infrastructure or allied renewable energy initiatives.

Mayor Bates says the project had major environmental benefits, but was also delivering a financial dividend to the community. ‘It’s a terrific project and part of this island’s quest to generate more of its own electricity, which has been one of the key barriers to encouraging growth and development here,’ Mayor Bates says.

We are already receiving significant domestic and overseas interest in the potential expansion of green energy infrastructure on Kangaroo Island the first few months of commissioning the infrastructure) for interest in potential value-added investment into the renewable energy and business sector on the island.

Kangaroo Island Council CEO Andrew Boardman says Kangaroo Island has an opportunity to build on the project. ‘We are already receiving significant domestic and overseas interest in the potential expansion of green energy infrastructure on Kangaroo Island.’

Acknowledgements The Kangaroo Island Council acknowledged a number of important contributors to the project: • the South Australian Government • Regional Development Australia (Adelaide Hills, Fleurieu and Kangaroo Island) • Ingenero Pty Ltd • Nissan Australia • ChargePoint Pty Ltd • KI Transfers • elected members and staff.

Potential value-added opportunities The project is already gaining considerable interest from national and international parties.

Apart from the Kangaroo Island Council achieving significant and long-lasting environmental and financial results from the project, it is already a catalyst (within

The Kangaroo Island Council welcomes any enquiries – please contact Andrew Boardman, CEO, Kangaroo Island Council – phone 08 8553 4506.

THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21 • 67

fleet management

THE PEAK OF SUVS

S

ubaru’s reputation is partly built on sports utility vehicles and recent developments have highlighted the brand’s all-wheel drive credentials, with award wins and a revamped range.

Subaru’s new generation allwheel drive Forester 2.5i was recently named Best Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) under $45,000 in the Australia’s Best Cars awards.

The award from the nation’s combined motoring organisations maintains Forester’s status as one of the most decorated vehicles in the Australian automotive industry since its launch in 1997.

Meanwhile, the Subaru Outback – regarded by many as the original crossover vehicle – has added rugged and aggressive styling cues for the 2014 Model Year, underlining its impressive all-wheel drive ability.

Originally launched in 1996, Outback is a firm favourite in the Subaru recreational range.

‘Since its debut, Forester has always been innovative, with landmarks like being the first SUV with a five-star ANCAP rating.

‘Now many Foresters are available with the hightech EyeSight driver assist system, which itself has won accolades for its contribution to safety.

It offers genuine dirt-road credentials and superior handling, combined with refined passenger car comfort – with the added insurance of an independent five-star occupant safety rating.

‘In fact, Forester’s global success is a great tribute to Fuji Heavy Industries, the maker of Subaru vehicles. The new generation introduced this year added significant refinement to an already formidable package, which has been noted by our customers and, it appears, the Australia’s Best Cars judges.’

Talking about Forester’s award win, Subaru Australia Managing Director, Nick Senior, said: ‘Forester was the original compact sports utility vehicle when it was launched in 1997, and pioneered this class of vehicle.

Cars were evaluated by the NRMA, RACV, RACQ, RAASA, RACWA, RACT and AANT against a broad range of criteria including: value for money, design and function, and on-the-road performance.

‘While many have followed since, Forester’s sales success is a clear indication that its fantastic combination of durability, safety, great engineering and refinement have made it an ongoing winner for Subaru.

Meanwhile, the new Outback line-up offers genuine dirtroad credentials and superior handling, combined with refined passenger car comfort – also with the added insurance of an independent five-star occupant safety rating.

68• •THE X THEAUSTRALIAN AUSTRALIANLOCAL LOCALGOVERNMENT GOVERNMENTYEARBOOK YEARBOOKEDITION EDITION21 21

WHEN IT COMES TO SAFETY, ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITMENT, SECURITY, ENGINEERING PERFORMANCE AND RETAINED VALUE SUBARU IS SIMPLY A SMARTER WAY TO ADD VALUE TO YOUR FLEET.

DNA is what makes Subaru different from every other car in the world, it’s what makes a Subaru a Subaru. It starts with the heart and soul of every Subaru – Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive, a horizontallyopposed Boxer engine and the maximum five-star ANCAP occupant safety rating.

Together, our technical innovations and safety credentials combine to deliver performance, environmental credentials, enhanced safety and consistently strong retained value for every Subaru owner.

The Fleet and Corporate Sales team are ably equipped to support business clients with their vehicle purchase needs.

Our Fleet and Corporate Sales message is a simple one.

We offer: • Commitment to our customers; • Engineering performance; • Environmental commitment and continuous improvements; • Enhanced security features; • Active and passive Safety; and

LIBERTY - Sedan and Wagon Every driver puts different performance demands on their vehicle. That’s why we don’t make just one Liberty – we make several, with some variants available in both sedan and wagon. The well-appointed Liberty range also offers great economy with Lineartronic™ CVT transmissions delivering less than 186 grams of CO2 per km.

OUTBACK - SUV Allows you to take on challenging conditions with confidence. With its technological advancements and appointments the Outback is fit for business, both in the city and the country. Also available in a Diesel variant with manual transmission and Lineartronic™ CVT.

IMPREZA - Sedan and Hatch Impreza is packed with cutting-edge features, technology and style.

Different from the ground up, it’s the small car with a totally new perspective. It features economical Stop-Start technology which makes it ultra fuel efficient. In fact, Lineartronic™ CVT transmission models produce less than 160 grams of CO2 per km.

TRIBECA - SUV

• Renowned Retained Value.

• 3 year unlimited kilometre manufacturer’s warranty .

1

• 3 year Roadside Assistance2.

Subaru is simply a smarter Fleet choice.

OUR ALL-WHEEL DRIVE RANGE FORESTER - SUV Designed to give you the capability and flexibility you need to run your business whether it be in the city or country. All new Generation features economical Stop-Start technology which makes it ultra fuel efficient. In fact, Lineartronic™ CVT transmission models produce less than 188 grams of CO2 per km. Also available in a Diesel variant with manual transmission.

For more information please call 1800 22 66 43 or visit subaru.com.au

This spacious seven-seat luxury SUV combines the agility of a passenger car with the adventure of AWD.

LIBERTY EXIGA - Wagon The Subaru Liberty Exiga 2.5i combines seven-seat luxury with the versatility and driving confidence of Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive and the safety of Vehicle Dynamics Control. Standard state-of-the-art Lineartronic™ CVT and a long wheel base provide a comfortable and smooth drive for you and your passengers.

XV - SUV XV breaks the mould, blending exceptional SUV capability with exhilarating handling, innovative design and electrifying lines. It features economical Stop-Start technology which makes it ultra fuel efficient. In fact, Lineartronic™ CVT transmission models produce less than 160 grams of CO2 per km.

1. See subaru.com.au/warranty for details. 2. 3 years Roadside Assistance Program is standard upon activation with relevant Motoring Club in each state, conditions apply.

fleet management

DRIVING THE FUTURE – SUSTAINABLE FLEETS

The ACT Government’s commitment to a more sustainable Canberra

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he Australian Capital Territory (ACT) Government is committed to making Canberra a better place to live, work and do business, and has the most ambitious greenhouse gas reduction targets of any jurisdiction in Australia. The Climate Change and Greenhouse Gas Reduction Act 2010 formalised the ACT target of zero net emissions (carbon neutrality) by 2060 and a 40 per cent reduction in greenhouse gas by 2020 (based on 1990 levels). In 2011, transport accounted for 23 per cent of ACT emissions (16 per cent for Australia).

In launching the Sustainable Energy Policy, the Minister for the Environment and Sustainable Development committed the ACT Government to lead by example in greenhouse gas reduction and introduce electric vehicles into the government fleet. The ACT Government’s first electric vehicle was placed into service in 2012.

All ACT Government Directorates have committed to having electric vehicles in their fleets. Employee engagement, including introductory electric vehicle training, is centrally coordinated through the Government Fleet Services Unit. The training documentation has been specifically developed by the ACT Government in consultation with Nissan Fleet Australia, which has been supportive of the government’s approach to a more sustainable fleet. Part of the successful implementation of electric and hybrid technology into the ACT fleet has been targeted employee training to ensure awareness of the vehicle’s features, technology and ease of driveability. This training has assisted in demonstrating that electric vehicle technology can not only assist in a more sustainable future, but can also provide a great driving experience.

70 X • •THE THEAUSTRALIAN AUSTRALIANLOCAL LOCALGOVERNMENT GOVERNMENTYEARBOOK YEARBOOKEDITION EDITION21 21

The ACT Government electric vehicles are conveniently parked in central, easy-to-access locations in areas of high employee concentration across the territory. The electric vehicles operate in common vehicle pools, along with hybrid and other vehicles. The vehicles are used by employees for short trips between office buildings and other locations across Canberra. Vehicles are available to book through an easy-to-use, web-based central booking system. Directorates with electric vehicles are reporting an enthusiastic response from employees, and an increased awareness of and interest in the government’s actions in addressing climate change.

Feedback from employees is extremely positive, with many stating that the quality of the vehicles and the driving experience have exceeded their expectations and altered their views regarding electric and hybrid vehicles.

The ACT Government is now in the position where employees are choosing to book electric and hybrid vehicles for their travel in preference to other vehicle types. Employees want to use them.

The ACT Government has elected to own and install its own recharging infrastructure for its electric vehicle fleet, and has the largest privately owned and operated charge network in Australia. The electric vehicles are branded with distinctive markings, which has generated good community feedback. The use of electric vehicles, along with a number of government policies and programs aimed at reducing vehicle emissions, is generating increased public awareness and behavioural change.

Sustainable fleet development is just one of the ACT Government’s strategies towards a greener and cleaner Canberra.

100% ELECTRIC NISSAN LEAF HOW SWITCHED ON IS YOUR FLEET? The multiple award winning Nissan LEAF offers the revolution of 100% electric driving that is both practical and affordable. · 100% electric motor · 5-star ANCAP safety rating · Satellite Navigation and Reversing Camera with Predictive Path Technology

· Charging information and climate operation controlled remotely via your smart phone · Up to 170km range on a full charge†

To find out more contact Kylie Winter on 03 9797 5062 or kylie_winter@nissan.com.au †

Based on New European Driving Cycle (NEDC). Zero Emission means zero tailpipe emissions.

fleet management

Fleet management apps Anyone working in local government will likely be aware of the quickly advancing technologies that are creeping into a number of local governance processes. There’s an app for pretty much anything you can think of, including plenty to assist with fleet management. Listed here are some apps that might make the management of your fleet a little easier.

VicTraffic

Snarl Traffic

Victorian councils, encourage your staff to download VicTraffic – the official app of VicRoads. This handy app will provide your drivers with upto-the-minute data on road closures and traffic alerts, letting them know where they’ve occurred and whether detours have been set up. It can also tell users when events or roadworks have been organised, so they can avoid those areas.

Supporting New South Wales, Victoria and Queensland, Snarl Traffic will provide you with the traffic information you need on the East Coast of Australia. It allows you to adjust the time frame of traffic incidents to display, pinpoint your location using the GPS, and view traffic that will immediately affect your current situation.

The alerts systems allows you to see how many incidents have occurred, and each incident’s details can be viewed on separate maps with extended details. The traffic updates in real time with adjustable auto-refresh, so you can see how things look on the road before you get there.

Trapster Do you want to know where speed and stop-light cameras are? How about police? Or traffic jams?

Trapster is the answer! This app is available in over 10 languages, and will give you both visual and audio alerts when any of the above enter your path.

72 • THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21

Road Trip Road Trip is a great app for fleet managers, as it keeps track of a vehicle’s fuel economy, maintenance and mileage. Enter your details in an instant, and the app will provide you with reports

fleet management

on fuel economy and cost, maintenance history, road trip comparisons, reminders for maintenance, and cost overviews. Featuring a service and repair log, trip tracking and reporting, comprehensive statistics, an unlimited number of vehicles, and fullscreen interactive graphs, this app is incredibly handy for keeping control of your fleet. Automatically back up to Dropbox, and sync between devices.

Gas Cubby This great app is another way to keep on top of the running costs of your fleet, including fuel use and maintenance.

Multiple vehicles can be entered, and reports generated based on the data you enter.

Drive.com.au calls it a ‘musthave app for anyone who monitors fuel and servicing costs’ – that would be you, fleet manager! Like Road Trip, this app reminds you when regular maintenance is due.

Speed Adviser This app was recently launched

by Transport for New South Wales and alerts drivers when they are entering school or other zones that will require them to reduce their speed.

It also tells users when the speed limit has changed, and has both a day and night mode.

Road Mode VicRoads has launched a nifty app that silences all incoming calls and text messages, so your drivers won’t be distracted when they’re on the road. It sends an automated message to whoever’s trying to contact your drivers, stating they’re behind the wheel and unable to reach their phone.

Hudway This augmented reality app turns your windscreen into a source of driving information, projecting directions and speed onto your windscreen from your iPhone. It’s a bit like a car-racing game, with turnby-turn directions, distance and driving instructions for a variety of road conditions: fog, snow, rain and night. Build a route using one of your map services, place your phone on the dashboard, and the phone’s glare will reflect off the windscreen in front of you, meaning you don’t have to take your eyes off the road while navigating.

Best used in dark conditions.

THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21 • 73

corporate profile

NEW FUEL MANAGEMENT PROGRAM NOW AVAILABLE! With access to one of the largest fuel networks, can you afford not to take advantage of the Summit Fleet fuel management program’s value?

program ensures adequate levels of control over purchases, with adjustable ceilings to maintain consistency across the fleet. The ability to use grocery shopping discount vouchers and earn flybuys points at participating sites is an additional feature that was previously unavailable.

A single swipe is the simplest means of gathering important information for every vehicle, enabling fuel expenditure capture. The information recorded and applied to each individual vehicle comprises a complete solution incorporating an effective procurement process and management database.

Data obtained from the fuel purchases are managed in Summit Fleet’s database. This information enables extensive fleet analysis through vehicle management reporting. These reports can identify all the details during the life of the car, including: • odometer capture • term and kilometre (policy) management • trend on spend

S

E

T

he new Summit Fleet fuel card is an exciting partnership between Summit and Motorpass, and has been created to help save time, money and administration, while providing access to the largest fuel network in Australia. The Summit Fleet fuel card is a small part of an all-encompassing fuel management program, enabling a wider scope of services and deliverables, aiding in identifying whole-of-life (WOL) costs.

There are a number of very important factors to be taken into consideration when assessing specific fuel management needs, including location and vehicle use requirements. Summit will collaborate and strategically assess all factors, presenting the package that best aligns with your business strategy.

Summit Fleet’s fuel card features include extensive coverage, as it is accepted at over 95 per cent of fuel sites nationally (more than 5400 fuel outlets). It includes high-security personal identification numbers and zero transaction fees. The easy-to-understand structure of the

74 THEAUSTRALIAN AUSTRALIANLOCAL LOCALGOVERNMENT GOVERNMENTYEARBOOK YEARBOOKEDITION EDITION21 21 X ••THE

• consumption comparative/review • trip/fill analysis • whole-of-life management • monthly CO2 output (tonnes) • due/overdue for service report • exception reporting (overfills and incorrect fuel types) • fringe benefits tax (FBT) reporting • consolidated invoicing • online portal access to vehicle management and reporting.

Summit Fleet’s fuel management program includes the options of multi-branded or single-branded fuel cards.

A discount ‘off-pump price’ may also be applicable on selected cards for ULP, E10, LPG and diesel.

For more details about Summit Fleet’s fuel card, please visit www.summitfleet.com.au or call 1800 Fleet Lease.

A collaborative ‘whole of life’ fleet solution Release capital tied up in your vehicle fleet In fleet management, cost saving is vital. At Summit, we want to turn the tables and help you make strategic fleet decisions without all the operational tasks that accompany them. We want to understand and align with your organisations needs and valued local suppliers to effectively partner and then develop your fit for purpose fleet strategy.

We look at this as a long term strategic partnership to ensure the solution we reach is the most beneficial for your needs. As an established Procurement Australia partner, this is the way we do business.

A fuel management tool designed to save you money Accepted at over 95% of fuel outlets across Australia, the new Summit Fuel Card is the best way to ensure your fleet is well equipped and managed as it grows with your business. A complete solution is offered through accurate, timely reporting whilst ensuring complete security with PINs and zero transaction fees.

Contact Summit Fleet Leasing and Management today to see what we can do for you.

Call toll free 1800 Fleet Lease www.summitfleet.com.au E

corporate profile

A COST-SAVING FLEET LEASING AND MANAGEMENT COMPANY Summit Fleet Leasing and Management just happens to be doing it in the motor vehicle fleet industry.

valued local suppliers, to effectively partner with and then develop your fit-for-purpose fleet strategy.

Summit Fleet Leasing and Management has a reputation for being an experienced industry professional, striving to engage in long-term strategic partnerships, ensuring the solution reached is the most beneficial for your needs. This is the way Summit does business.

Summit Fleet Leasing and Management can support you with some or all components of fleet management and leasing, structured to meet your operational, workplace and financial objectives. Summit also provides salary-packaging services and novated leases with unrivalled driver support – the cornerstone to a great employee benefits program. In all instances, Summit consolidates all transactions into one monthly invoice with a detailed statement.

Case study: sale leaseback

V

ehicles are a vital component in the running of any successful organisation. A fit-for-purpose fleet solution offers flexibility in helping you on the road, servicing the community efficiently and reliably; however, with increased functional responsibility, fleet needs also grow. The management of this change is often overlooked, as it is a full-scale fleet operation from cradle to grave. This incorporates sourcing, delivery, insurance costs, fuel cards, toll management, roadside assistance, re-registration, infringement management, service, maintenance, repairs, accident management, tyre replacements, data management and driver support. You now have multiple functions doing operational fleet management and you haven’t yet aggregated your supplier data to calculate your whole-of-life cost.

Summit Fleet Leasing and Management wants to turn the tables and help you make strategic fleet decisions without all the operational tasks that accompany them. Summit wants to understand and align with your organisation’s needs and

• THEAUSTRALIAN AUSTRALIANLOCAL LOCALGOVERNMENT GOVERNMENTYEARBOOK YEARBOOKEDITION EDITION2121 Z76• THE

A client owns a fleet of 30 cars, with a value of $800,000.

An upcoming need to invest in a new community project has seen a reprioritisation of capital expenditure. After meeting and assessing the options to minimise the cost of change, but retain access to the vehicles, it was determined that the liquidation of depreciating assets would be a prudent step to reduce asset risk and, most importantly, free up cash.

Solution Summit actively reviewed this council’s fleet policy, structure and asset values, and aligned the objectives of the client with a sale and leaseback transaction using a fully maintained operating lease. Purchasing the vehicles at an agreed amount allowed the client to focus their investment into the community whilst Summit focused on their fleet.

After all, Summit Fleet is a cost-saving company, and as a preferred Procurement Australia partner, is ready to work with you. The expectations of your operation are too valuable not to have cost-control measures on your fleet.

Arrange a consultation today! Contact toll-free 1800 Fleet Lease or visit www.summitfleet.com.au to find out more.

corporate profile

CREATING AN EMPLOYER OF CHOICE BENEFIT PROGRAM

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s you strive to maintain your organisation’s status as an employer of choice, ensuring you have a robust and nimble employee benefits program is essential.

A motor vehicle is one of the most popular salary-packaged items in our culture.

Summit takes the time to combine the unique needs of your organisation’s employee benefits strategy with motor vehicle salary packaging. Summit’s national team is available to assist organisations of all sizes and structure programs, and then deliver directly to your employees.

Summit’s products and services offer employees choice and flexibility with structures, depending on their desired vehicle type, usage, personal financial situation and objectives. Summit deals personally with each employee enquiry to understand their specific needs so they enjoy all the benefits available to them.

The principal objective is to help the employee to salary sacrifice any leasing and running costs into one set monthly payment for an agreed term. Summit can protect against risk on vehicle maintenance and resale dependent on the products used, while managing and reporting on budgeted costs, such as fuel and insurance.

The following scenario shows the benefits of packaging a $30,000 car and its running costs over three years for a driver who covers 15,000 kilometres every 12 months.

Estimated Salary Comparison

Employee Contribution Method (ECM) Packaged

Unpackaged

Gross Salary

$65,000

$65,000

Annual Vehicle Costs

$8,271

$0

New Gross Salary

$56,729

$65,000

PAYG Tax

$10,736

$13,507

New Annual Net Salary

$39,813

$36,363

Advantage Per Annum

$3,598

*Disclaimer: Summit Auto Lease Pty Ltd accepts no liability for the reliance on the results provided in this calculation.

Visit www.summitfleet.com.au for more information.

Employees benefit from a number of concessions on these types of transactions that directly translate to cost savings. As highlighted in the example, it becomes a tax-effective way to finance a vehicle and reduce taxable income. The vehicle may be driven for private use while also accessing fuel, maintenance and fleet discounting. There is greater flexibility with vehicle choice, while payments are fixed for an agreed term, giving surety and cash-flow ease, and payroll deductions are therefore consistent.

Employers gain appreciation and engagement from staff who enjoy personal benefits, meaning staff recruitment and retention is enhanced. The good news is that the savings and advantages from these products and services are not just limited to the employees.

When an employee takes advantage of a packaged program from Summit, there is no direct cost to the employer. More employer level savings and value can be derived from reduced organisational fringe benefits tax (FBT) liability, as well as no vehicle ownership risk and responsibility. This then correlates to reduced balance sheet exposure, and there is also the potential for payroll and work-cover concessions in some states. Summit handles all the administration with your designated contact, while directly liaising with your drivers and presenting budget and management reporting monthly.

Summit Fleet Leasing and Management has been developing employee benefit programs and motor vehicle salary-packaging services since inception, and offers the full suite of products and services available.

Arrange a consultation today! Contact toll-free 1800 Fleet Lease or visit www.summitfleet.com.au to find out more.

THE THEAUSTRALIAN AUSTRALIANLOCAL LOCALGOVERNMENT GOVERNMENTYEARBOOK YEARBOOKEDITION EDITION21 21••AA 77

fleet management

Effective fleet management reporting can save time and money

By Ross Moody, Institute of Public Works Engineering Australasia (IPWEA) National Executive Officer An effective management information system is probably the most critical technology tool needed to run a competitive business in today’s environment; and that also applies to fleet.

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lant and vehicles represent a significant component of project delivery costs, and yet many organisations continue to operate blindly, relying on inadequate reports generated by financial systems or referring to spreadsheets. Even a five per cent reduction in fleet costs would result in a significant saving.

Over the years, I have observed that most organisations are recording some degree of fleet-related data, but they don’t always use the information effectively.

78 • THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21

Organisations generally generate their fleet management reporting from either a spreadsheet or a database, the financial system, an asset management system, or a dedicated fleet management system.

Spreadsheets or database systems are limited in their reporting abilities, but may be adequate for an organisation with a small fleet. Financial systems are excellent at capturing basic costs; however, both financial and asset management systems do not effectively report on the key performance indicators required to effectively manage a fleet.

The topic of fleet management reporting was workshopped by IPWEA nationally in 2011 through the professional development seminar series. Discussion on fleet management software always attracts a lot of interest, and the 180 fleet practitioners attending the nine workshops around Australia drew out two consistencies. Firstly, a strong message was that a lack of relevant management reporting significantly impacts on their ability to effectively manage the fleet. Secondly, they identified the core capabilities that fleet managers wanted from fleet software.

fleet management

The session wasn’t about assessing the merits of the different software packages available in the market, but rather what are the capabilities required by a software system to meet industry needs.

Included in the essential information required to manage fleet is reporting on key performance indicators, namely: 1. utilisation 2. optimum replacement points – reflected in a 10-year plan

Our aim was to develop an outline specification template that can be referred to by an organisation when they are in the market to buy fleet management software.

3. whole-of-life costs 4. downtime costs

The table below summarises the items identified by fleet practitioners as one of three categories – essential, desirable and optional – in a fleet management reporting system.

5. maintenance failure records 6. scheduled versus unscheduled maintenance.

Key requirements of a fleet management system Essential

Desirable

Optional

Plant list/asset record

Fuel rebate

Parts inventory

Whole-of-life costs

FBT

Insurance

Optimum replacement criteria and 10-year plan

Single data entry

Vehicle permits

Plant (asset) history

Light fleet booking system

Maintenance history

Driver’s licence/special permits/ infringement records Photographs

Utilisation

Location of asset

e-tags

Maintenance forecasting

Scheduled maintenance flat rates

Maintenance failure reporting

User manuals (electronic)

Accident report

Flexibility

Hire rates

Calculator

Small plant records

Emissions

Work orders/job cards

Attachments

Registration due

Communication

File transfer to/from finance system

Optional extras

Scheduled/unscheduled maintenance

Consumables

Fuel consumption

External plant hire

GPS

Job status Warranty details Security of data P&L report Cost centre identification Export to XL User friendly Lease vehicle reports Downtime THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21 • 79

fleet management

Charts provide vital information for proactive fleet management A stand-alone plant and vehicle management system that caters specifically for the needs of a fleet manager allows the manager to undertake projections and study trends without affecting the integrity of financial management criteria.

The collection of data in these key areas will enable the organisation to measure its performance against industry benchmarks.

A challenge faced by fleet managers is the push by organisations to rationalise the number of software programs, as well as the resistance of IT departments to stand-alone systems. The fleet management system therefore must be able to share data with the organisation’s main financial or asset management systems.

80 • THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21

In private industry, failure to analyse data such as fuel consumption, downtime, and repair costs can result in insolvency. In a review of the bankruptcy of transport company McArthur Express, poor reporting systems were quoted as a major element of their demise.

Ross Moody coordinates the IPWEA’s comprehensive plant and vehicle management program. More information on this and other topics can be found in the IPWEA best practice Plant & Vehicle Management Manual. See www.ipwea.org/fleet.

fleet management

fleet management

CENTURY BATTERIES POWER SOLUTIONS FOR AUSTRALIA’S FLEET!

A

ustralia’s climate and extreme working conditions create havoc for batteries, attacking critical internal components that can lead to early battery failure.

Unfortunately, some imported batteries, made for softer climates, focus on higher starting power at the expense of more critical design features.

Australian-made for Australian conditions Century Batteries, Australia’s oldest and most recognised battery manufacturer, has been designing, manufacturing and supplying batteries in Australia since 1928. In this time they have developed the engineering expertise and stateof-the-art manufacturing processes to produce a range of superior quality batteries better suited to Australia’s hotter climate and harsh working conditions.

Century Batteries are designed and built in Australia.

They feature substantial design improvements and specialist hard-wearing components to deliver what fleet managers and plant operators really want – longer life and ultra reliability with less downtime.

Century’s product portfolio includes one of the widest selections of batteries available in the marketplace and features some of the most technically advanced products available in the battery industry.

range of batteries suitable for use in an extensive range of applications, including: automotive, four-wheel drive, deep cycle, truck and light commercial, heavy equipment, motorcycle, marine and uninterrupted power supply systems.

Battery testing and management solutions Century’s extensive range of battery testing and engine diagnostic equipment is perfect for use out in the field or workshop. Quick and easy to use, they provide fast, accurate results to help identify suspect batteries before they fail, and when used as part of a total battery management program, they can help keep vehicles on the road for longer and avoid the true cost of battery failure.

Largest battery distribution network Wherever you are located in Australia, Century has the distribution coverage and capability to promptly service your battery needs. A network of regional agents and distribution centres ensures you have access to locally held products, services and battery specialists, on hand to service your complete battery requirements.

From their state-of-the-art manufacturing facility located in Queensland, Century produces and supplies a diverse

To find out more about Century’s range of products and services, contact a Century Batteries representative on 1300 362 287, visit www.centurybatteries.com.au, or email info@cyb.com.au.

X • THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21

THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21 • 81

corporate profile

MERCEDEZ-BENZ VANS: BORN TO RUN

A fit line up of Mercedes-Benz Vans after being put through their paces at a recent drive day at Phillip Island.

M

aximum availability – that’s the vision the vans team at Mercedes-Benz Australia/Pacific, and its German parent company The Daimler Group, strive to deliver for customers day in, day out. It is now reflected in updated branding for the van that carries the three-pointed star, with the tag line ‘Vans. Born to Run’.

Further to safety, Tarr reflects, ‘While we have access to the world’s most advanced vans in terms of safety and drive train technology, locally we are focused on delivering a competitive whole-of-life proposition to customers, because at the end of the day the bottom line is just as important as safety when choosing a van fleet.’

Diane Tarr, General Manager of Mercedes-Benz Vans Australia, explains, ‘We are in the business of providing tools of the trade that keep your business running at its peak. Put simply, that means providing vans you can depend on.’

To this point, impressive whole-of-life costs across the van range can come as a pleasant surprise to some customers; with the addition of things such as long service intervals (up to 30,000km/12 months), clever inbuilt systems such as ‘ASSYST’ (where Vito and Valente vans calculate oil-change intervals on a flexible basis according to the use of the vehicle) and ‘Agility’ (a finance product offering guaranteed future value), the total cost of ownership becomes very attractive. This is especially true for fleet customers, as lean whole-of-life costs start with preferential pricing for both large and small fleets.

The badge is synonymous with safety, so it comes as no surprise that Mercedes-Benz Vans continue to raise the safety benchmark in the light commercial vehicle segment.

Later this year, their most popular selling van in the 3.5–8tonne segment, the Sprinter, will feature three firsts in the van market: • Crosswind Assist – keeps van safely on course during strong gusts of wind.

• Collision Prevention Assist – alerts the driver if the van gets too close to other moving vehicles on the road ahead or to the end of a queue of traffic.

• Blind Spot Assist – warns a driver who is about to change lanes if vehicles in the next lane are dangerously close.

These car-like safety innovations are again about maximum availability, ensuring safer work environments for your most precious cargo – the driver.

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Mercedes-Benz Vans is certainly one to watch. Awards for safety and all-round performance have been received on numerous occasions from independent bodies – most recently Delivery Magazine Van of the Year Award for the Sprinter, and, for the second year in a row, Delivery Magazine People Mover of the Year Award for the Valente.

So, in keeping with their newest campaign message, if you want a fit fleet, be sure to consider Mercedes-Benz Vans.

Fit Fleet.

Better for your blood pressure.

A Daimler Brand

Beyond providing reliable and safe vehicles for your drivers, a Fit Fleet of Mercedes-Benz vans offers lean, whole-of-life costs, which start with preferential fleet pricing. Let’s discuss the advantages. www.mercedes-benz.com.au/vanfleet

Get a Fit Van Fleet Call 1300 366 372

corporate profile

LOVE MY HONDA!

A

s Australia’s leading four-stroke garden care equipment manufacturer, Honda offers a complete range of fuel-efficient four-stroke power equipment.

Honda’s range of equipment includes lawnmowers, brushcutters, generators, pumps, tillers, hedge cutters, a blower, a power carrier, and the all-new and keenly anticipated VersaTool.

pruner, edger, cultivator, short and long hedge trimmer, brush-cutter, blower and extension pole. The VersaTool – perfect for all your lawn and garden jobs!

Honda lawnmowers are reliable, efficient and coupled with heavy-duty components along with numerous safety features, allowing their user to achieve a perfect cut, no matter what task is at hand. Powered by durable Honda four-stroke engines, these machines are built to last.

Honda’s famous engineering has also delivered the world’s first four-stroke blower and hedge cutter, making both of these products the most powerful and lightweight machines in their class. In addition, Honda’s brush-cutters are rugged, reliable and are ideal for a variety of jobs, including trimming, edging and clearing.

The Honda Power Carrier and Tiller range are the perfect solutions to eliminate the hard slog of manual work in the field. And for backup power, you’ll find that Honda generators incorporate the type of innovations and cuttingedge technology that no other manufacturer can match.

Honda water pumps offer a level of uncompromising performance to a wide variety of water transfer applications.

Designed for easy starting, priming and dependable service, and used throughout the world for over 20 years, Honda water pumps have earned a reputation for unsurpassed reliability and performance.

The latest addition to Honda’s range of power equipment is the long-awaited VersaTool. Combining Honda’s ‘starts first time, every time’ four-stroke technology, the VersaTool combines either 25 cubic centimetres or 35 cubic centimetre power head with eight attachments;

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All of Honda’s products are easy to use, whisper-quiet and safe for the environment. Honda’s advanced four-stoke technology eliminates the mess and time it takes to mix two-stroke fuel, and all products will start first time, every time. Honda’s range is backed up by a four-year domestic warranty* and combine with a servicing network of over 450 authorised dealerships, all who offer outstanding after-sales support.

With a strong reputation for reliability, innovation and performance, Honda’s selection of lawn and garden products will meet just about every requirement, all the while incorporating the environmentally friendly benefits of four-stroke technology.

Call 1300 1 HONDA for specialist Honda dealers or visit http:powerequipment.honda.com.au *four-year warranty – domestic use only. Not applicable to engines sold as separate units. Full terms and conditions available at authorised Honda dealerships.

HONDA. WE DO MORE THAN JUST MOWERS. Manufacturing industry leading generators, tillers and transfer pumps for over 50 years.

EU65is Maximum output 6500W/240 volt AC Better than commercial quality electricity due to microcomputer controlled sine wave inverter Large capacity 17 litre fuel tank Other models available

HP450 Power Carrier Powerful GXV160 OHV 4-Stroke engine Shifts upto 450kg of payload via a 0.18m3 tray Crawler tension spring to protect your investment

EG3600CX

WB30 Pump

Maximum output 3600W/240 volt AC Strengthened electric performance with D-AVR†† with inverter-like stable voltage Large capacity 24 litre fuel tank Other models available

3 inch pump transfers 1,100 L/min.

Empty an average inground pool in 54 min.

Precision Japanese quality means year after year of reliability Other models available: WX10 - 140 L/min, WX15 - 240 L/min, WB20 - 600 L/min

Scan here to find out more.

For your nearest specialist dealer call 1300 1 HONDA (1300 1 46632) or visit http://powerequipment.honda.com.au

Not all products are available from every Honda dealer. Honda MPE reserves the right to change models, specifications and price without notice. *4-year warranty. Domestic use only. Not applicable to engines sold as separate units. Full terms & conditions available at authorised Honda dealerships. †† D-AVR - Digital Auto Voltage Regulator.

F501 Tiller Powerful 5.5hp 4-stroke engine 2 forward and 1 reverse gears 914mm tine width Adjustable handlebars Other models available

GX V-Twin Series New Generation V-twins Three horsepower choices, seven models OHV commercial engine

corporate profile

SOLVING A COUNCIL’S COPIER MUDDLE ‘We had so many printers, it seemed like every corner you turned someone had a printer next to their desk.’ – Mark Griffioen, Scenic Rim Regional Council Corporate and Community Services Director.

Summary

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local government amalgamation in Queensland left Scenic Rim Regional Council (SRRC) with an assortment of printers across two different council areas. Dealing with a complex array of lease agreements, servicing and consumables was costly and took considerable staff time. The council looked to implement a rationalisation project to solve the problem and put the project out to tender to four vendors. Canon Australia was selected to implement its uniFLOW software and multifunction devices, enabling the council to make significant print cost savings, as well as a reduction in paper consumption.

just 72, and Scenic Rim Regional Council was formed, amalgamating Boonah Shire, most of Beaudesert Shire and the Mutdapilly/Harrisville/Peak Crossing area of Ipswich City.

With any amalgamation or merger, organisations go through a huge amount of IT integration, from system integration through to infrastructure and hardware. SRRC was no exception. Following the amalgamation, SRRC’s print fleet totalled more than 80 print devices, including 61 printers and 17 photocopiers, from six different vendors.

The challenge

‘The amalgamation of councils left us with a large number of printers and photocopiers to manage, as well as multiple vendors to deal with. Managing lease agreements, servicing and consumables took up a significant amount of staff time and proved costly,’ said Mark.

Set in the foothills of the Great Dividing Range, Scenic Rim Regional Council has approximately 35,000 residents spread over 4250 square kilometres. In 2008, the Queensland government reduced the number of councils from 156 to

With a variety of vendors and devices to manage, there was no central management system for the print environment. ‘We had numerous people managing different machines across each council department, making it

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corporate profile

difficult to monitor and track the amount of paper and consumables being used across the council, and almost impossible to consolidate and streamline costs.’

The solution SRRC looked at implementing a rationalisation project to improve the situation and cut costs, by asking four vendors to tender for the business.

‘After reviewing the cost of our print environment, we asked four vendors to tender for the business. Our objectives were not only to reduce costs, but also to create a sustainable print environment across the council.’

Canon recommended SRRC consolidate, centralise and secure its print environment, while allowing staff to easily monitor and control how they printed.

‘Canon provided the best solution for us. With uniFLOW as the backbone to the implementation, and the foresight to reduce our print devices from 80 to just 32 multifunction devices, Canon’s offering was the most compelling.’

With cost reduction as one of SRRC’s main objectives, Canon started by consolidating the devices. With six vendors and numerous models scattered around the council, Canon examined how staff used the devices, and the functions required to ensure the consolidation would have a positive effect on staff productivity and machine efficiency.

Canon introduced its uniFLOW software to help increase productivity while reducing both cost and waste. One of the solution’s key features is the secure print-release function, where all SRRC employees must swipe an identity card at the device before their print job is released. Any print jobs that are not released within 24 hours are automatically deleted, eliminating long print queues and reducing paper wastage.

‘Previously, staff would always print to the same device, so if someone had sent a large document to the same device earlier, then they would have to wait for the document to finish before their own document would appear. Now with uniFLOW, if staff get to the printer and it is busy, they simply walk to the next device, swipe their identity card and receive their printing without having to wait,’ said Mark.

By implementing uniFLOW follow-me print, employees now swipe their existing security ID card at the printer before a print job can be released. By installing card readers on all multifunction devices, Canon was able to provide a secure and sustainable solution for SRRC.

‘Secure printing provided us with the confidence we needed to move employees who print confidential information to group printers, as jobs are only released when the authorised person is present,’ said Mark.

With its previous print fleet including more black-andwhite multifunction devices than colour, SRRC needed to ensure that its costs wouldn’t increase by moving to an all-colour print fleet. Thanks to uniFLOW, SRRC is able to default all print jobs to black-and-white, no matter which printer was selected.

‘Initially, staff were worried that the reduced number of printers and multifunction devices would mean large queues at the printer. However, by implementing uniFLOW we were able to alleviate employee concerns and actually reduce the time they spent waiting for printouts,’ said Mark.

To help manage the changes taking place in the printing environment at SRRC, Canon provided a resource to conduct training for staff. Canon also provided network support to help resolve any issues associated with the way the council’s network was configured.

THE THEAUSTRALIAN AUSTRALIANLOCAL LOCALGOVERNMENT GOVERNMENTYEARBOOK YEARBOOKEDITION EDITION21 21• •87 Y

corporate profile

Results ‘The savings and benefits for Scenic Rim from the Canon installation have exceeded expectations,’ said Mark.

Having done an analysis of the costs since implementation was completed in December 2010, SRRC projects savings of $87,000 a year on its print costs alone, not including the paper savings that the implementation is generating. This is 24 per cent above the cost savings the council had hoped to achieve through the rationalisation project.

By reducing the number of machines, fleet management has significantly improved. With only one vendor supplying and managing the print fleet, SRRC has streamlined consumable purchasing and significantly reduced its energy costs by replacing faxes, photocopiers, multifunction devices and desktop printers with just 32 Canon multifunction devices.

The implementation of uniFLOW’s statistics feature also enables SRRC to track print usage and attribute costs to the correct department, as well as highlighting the cost of colour printing to staff.

Despite the majority of SRRC’s volume going through colour machines, the fact that the colour usage has reduced significantly, even though the availability of colour has increased, demonstrates that the uniFLOW solution is educating users and influencing behaviour.

Through the uniFLOW Universal Driver, when printing colour documents, users receive a pop-up illustrating the • THEAUSTRALIAN AUSTRALIANLOCAL LOCALGOVERNMENT GOVERNMENTYEARBOOK YEARBOOKEDITION EDITION2121 Z88• THE

cost differentiation of their print job, between colour and black and white. By exposing users to the differences in cost, this becomes a factor when deciding how to print and helps influence user behaviour.

Currently, 90 per cent of SRRC’s print jobs are run through colour machines, yet the colour to black-and-white ratio has significantly reduced due to uniFLOW’s rules and routing function, which ensures all jobs default to blackand-white, duplex.

These capabilities are key drivers in reducing Scenic Rim’s colour usage from 37.8 per cent to 22 per cent.

About Canon Canon is the world’s leading imaging brand that actively inspires with imaginative ideas that enable people to connect, communicate and achieve more than they thought possible, through imaging solutions for businesses and consumers. Canon’s Australian R&D company, CiSRA, develops and exports digital imaging technologies for use in Canon products worldwide. Canon has ranked among the top four United States patent recipients for the past 18 years, and had global revenues of around US$35 billion in 2009. Canon Australia also operates Canon Finance Australia, which offers one-stop shopping for customers wanting leasing or finance services.

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community, health + ageing

engagement

By Carla Leversedge, Manager Community Development and Engagement, and President of IAP2

Making decisions on behalf of 100,000 people is no easy task, so it is important for any council to take into account the views of its community when making decisions or choosing a direction on particular issues.

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he trust and confidence that a community has in its council can depend on the extent to which the community is engaged in key decisions, and on issues that have an impact on their lives.

Councillors are elected to make decisions on behalf of and in the best interests of their communities. At the City of Tea Tree Gully, we believe that good decisionmaking requires good-quality information to assist and inform that decision-making. Responsive and accountable governance is based on the belief that those impacted by an issue have important information and contributions to make.

90 • THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21

However, it should be noted that local government is not government by referendum. Under the South Australian Local Government Act 1999, the only decision-making power placed in the hands of the public is that of electing council members every four years.

Ultimately, by undertaking high-quality and authentic community engagement activities, any council will gain a better understanding of the range of community opinions on a particular issue, and can use this information to inform its decision-making considerations.

What is community engagement?

There is no right or wrong definition of community engagement. It is a broad term describing a variety of ways to communicate, consult, involve and encourage participation between the community and council.

The International Association of Public Participation (IAP2), of which I am the Australasian President, is the leading organisation in developing, supporting and promoting best practice community engagement around the world.

community, health + ageing

Council will ensure that all community engagement processes are well designed to fit the scope and nature of the project IAP2 defines community engagement as: ‘Any process that involves the community in problem-solving or decision-making, and uses community input to make better decisions.’

Further to this definition, it is important to define what community engagement is and what it is not.

Community engagement is a process, not an outcome or a solution. The objectives and parameters of any engagement processes need to be stated in a transparent way to avoid creating unrealistic expectations in the community.

Community engagement is a way to assist the decision-making process. It is not intended to replace the final decision-making power of the elected members, CEO or their delegate.

Meaningful community engagement means goodquality processes that endeavour to gain an objective, representative view from the broader community and relevant stakeholders, and are not limited to the views of a vocal minority.

Good decisions are informed by listening to diverse perspectives, gathering sound information, considering a range of opinions and alternatives, and identifying common ground.

Community engagement principles Since adopting a community engagement framework in 2011, the City of Tea Tree Gully has undertaken 50 separate engagement processes attracting 10,000 responses from residents and other stakeholders.

These activities have ranged from seeking feedback on Council’s strategic plan through to innovative and interactive world-café style workshops. In the past four years, we have used a variety of tools and techniques

from quick polls to interactive online mapping tools to gain community feedback on precinct planning. We have also undertaken community engagement on emotive and contentious issues, such as changing to a differential rating system, and community land sales.

The following points underpin the City of Tea Tree Gully’s approach to community engagement. In order to ensure organisational best practice, this framework has been developed according to the following principles: • Inclusive participation: Council believes that all members of the City of Tea Tree Gully community have a right to be informed about, and involved in, key decisions affecting their area, lifestyles and particular interests.

• Open and transparent disclosure: Council is committed to ensuring that the community has all the relevant information to participate in community engagement activities in a meaningful way. All of our engagement materials will use plain language, and we will ensure that they are easy to find and accessible to all.

• Engage early and with clarity of purpose: Council will undertake community engagement and consultation processes that will provide real opportunities for the community to influence a decision. We will clearly communicate the aims and objectives of all community engagement activities, and what we hope to achieve.

• Design and implementation of good-quality engagement processes, tools and methods: Council will ensure that all community engagement processes are well designed to fit the scope and nature of the project. Careful planning of engagement strategies and activities will ensure that a minimum of 20 business days is available for the community to consider and respond.

• Consideration of engagement outcomes and provision of feedback: Council will carefully consider all contributions and relevant information prior to making decisions that impact local community interests. We are committed to providing open and honest feedback to the community on engagement activities and how the community’s contribution has influenced Council’s decision.

THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21 • 91

community, health + ageing

Why engage?

Ultimately, we believe that good-quality community engagement helps our decision-makers to do a better job. It provides a means to connect and stay connected with our communities of place and communities of interest in order to further develop relationships and inform decision-making processes.

Good-quality community engagement processes can help elected members and staff to: • manage community expectations by identifying and addressing potential and existing concerns or conflicts early, before they escalate • communicate with stakeholders and gather a broader range of views and information prior to making decisions • build strong cooperative working relationships with the community • promote a positive perception of our Council within the community • plan and prioritise services and make better use of resources

92 • THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21

• build community support for Council services, policies and programs • reduce delays in implementing new services, projects or initiatives.

From a community perspective, timely and wellplanned community engagement activities provide individuals and groups with opportunities to have a say about what is happening in their communities, and to contribute in meaningful ways.

In developing an effective community engagement framework or policies, IAP2 is an excellent resource providing training and resources that help achieve best practice in determining the level of engagement (via the IAP2 Spectrum) and planning of engagement activities.

IAP2 is an international member association which seeks to promote and improve the practice of public participation or community engagement, incorporating individuals, governments, institutions and other entities that affect the public interest throughout the world.

For more information, visit www.iap2.org.au.

How is your TEAM GOING? How would your team describe itself? Is it congruent with what you would want? What behaviours do you tolerate in your team that are counter productive? Do you hear the language of responsibility or blame and excuses? Does your culture harbour excuses for poor performance? Who are the real leaders in your organisation? What gets noticed and rewarded in your organisation?

Is feedback given in your team? Is it honest?

Face to face? How do people respond?

What are the consequences for continued non compliance to the required behaviours? > CALL US TO FIND OUT x

LEADING TEAMS AUSTRALIA HEAD OFFICE MELBOURNE OFFICE: Ground Floor, 120 Jolimont Road East Melbourne 3002

OFFICES NOW OPEN IN: P: 03 9654 3744 F: 03 9654 3822 E: info@leadingteams.net.au

Sydney

Perth

Adelaide

www.leadingteams.net.au

corporate profile

THE SECRET TO A GREAT TEAM, LIVING THEIR VALUES

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he City of Port Phillip (CoPP) had been through a period of significant change in 2009–10. This was a nervous organisation with a new council, a new CEO and a new Executive Management Team (EMT).

Previous training consultants had negatively impacted the organisation, and staff morale was at an all-time low.

General Manager, Corporate Services, Mark Brady, became aware of Leading Teams Australia (LTA) when he saw a presentation at a local government workshop for emerging leaders.

‘I was impressed by the simplicity of the model and I could see how it could apply to local government, and our team in particular,’ said Mark.

CoPP asked LTA to facilitate a values workshop with the Executives and Managers, and the team felt Craig Biddiscombe and Jim Plunkett were a good fit for the organisation. ‘We were ready – the workshop was a success, we had our leadership right and we understood the Leading Teams model. The next job was to work out the best way to roll the program out,’ said Mark.

Given their history, CoPP didn’t want a third party rolling out their program, so they decided to use the LTA principles and their own people.

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The EMT framed a simple three-phase approach to roll out the program. Stage one: ‘aware’, stage two: ‘accept’ and stage three: ‘embed’.

An expression of interest was called for from staff across the organisation, to take on a values and behaviours training responsibility. Twelve trainers were appointed, enabling CoPP to roll out their program by employees, for employees.

The use of an internal leadership group was extremely well received by employees, and provided a genuine and solid foundation for real cultural change.

Sixty-eight workshops were held with 936 employees, to introduce the concept of what makes a great team.

Teams were asked to consider the values and define what behaviour was right for their team to achieve the values.

‘We didn’t mind what behaviour they defined, as long the result was the team living the values. This empowered our people and allowed them to feel real ownership,’ said Mark.

Departments came together and were empowered to openly discuss the values, provide feedback, and agree on the behaviours and actions to define, implement and follow through their initial commitments. The cross-functional, cross-hierarchical facilitation team witnessed remarkable changes as a result of the training.

corporate profile

CoPP leaders committed to going the extra step, with the EMT and Managers working through feedback sessions with LTA. The LTA feedback approach is quite different from standard feedback methods, such as performance reviews. Peer-to-peer feedback provides a platform for an organisation to truly own their culture and be held accountable for it.

‘If you are going to be a great team, you need to be prepared to take a risk. With Leading Teams, the experience was scary but felt absolutely safe,’ said Mark.

Craig and Jim created a supportive environment and built rapport with the team. ‘They have an open manner when giving feedback, and you feel fully supported. There is follow-up and the positive is reinforced,’ said Mark.

Complementary coaching was made available through LTA, other external coaches and an internal mentoring program.

‘Every single member of the EMT has made a conscious and consistent effort to act on the feedback they have received through the program. It was clear that that Exec team wanted to be a great team, and they are well on their way,’ said LTA Facilitator Jim Plunkett.

‘I don’t think it could have gone any better,’ said Mark.

‘We had minimal expectations; we knew we had to restore confidence by our people in the organisation.

But we have gone so far beyond that. We have built real ownership and commitment. We have generated awareness and acceptance of the importance of building great teams.’

The workshops delivered outstanding results with ongoing departmental activities, a noticeable shift in behaviours and attitudes, greater interdepartmental cohesion and an overall tangible lift in morale.

Mark said that the breadth and scale of the program was enormous.

‘It was ambitious, and our key to success was that it was driven by the organisation, for the organisation.

The roll-out was measured and deliberate – we took the time to share the story and travel our journey together.

We conducted periodic reviews and were diligent about

gathering feedback. LTA helped us to achieve our goals.

They helped us bring our values to life and link our performance to our values. Craig and Jim’s personal service delivered confidence.’

What’s next?

The organisation has now moved into stage 3: ‘embed’. This involves bringing the values to life inside the organisation through recruitment, training, performance management, and reward and recognition programs.

Both anecdotal and direct feedback is being gathered on an ongoing basis; however, one other key metric will be the result of the next staff engagement survey.

LEADING TEAMS AUSTRALIA - HEAD OFFICE Ground Floor, 120 Jolimont Road East Melbourne, Victoria 3002 phone: 03 9654 3744 fax: 03 9654 3822 email: info@leadingteams.net.au www.leadingteams.net.au

THEAUSTRALIAN AUSTRALIANLOCAL LOCALGOVERNMENT GOVERNMENTYEARBOOK YEARBOOKEDITION EDITION21 21• •95 Y THE

corporate profile

IMPROVING HYGIENE AT YOUR AQUATIC CENTRE

Selecting appropriate materials, designs and construction methods for pools and aquatic centres plays a critical role in not only protecting the integrity and longevity of a facility, but also the level of hygiene, health and safety.

M

unicipal pools are designed with a 50-year life; however, one of the key factors in achieving this lifespan in a harsh chlorinated or saline environment is to ensure that the concrete reinforcement is protected.

Kevin Campbell, Specialist Civil Structural Forensic Engineer and author of the paper ‘Basic Construction Requirements for Municipal Swimming Pools’, explains: ‘From a construction materials perspective, municipal swimming pools and aquatic centres can present a number of significant challenges, not only in terms of the pool, but also in relation to the pool deck and areas surrounding the pool.

‘Concrete is porous; constant exposure to pool water will result in chloride and/or salt ingress, which will, in turn, corrode the steel reinforcement within the concrete. When this occurs, the corroding steel reinforcement expands,

96• •THE X THEAUSTRALIAN AUSTRALIANLOCAL LOCALGOVERNMENT GOVERNMENTYEARBOOK YEARBOOKEDITION EDITION21 21

causing the concrete to crack and eventually break apart.

This causes major occupational health and safety concerns in swimming pool environments.’

The best way to avoid these issues is to prevent the exposed concrete from coming into direct contact with the pool water by means of a reliable physical barrier.

‘Together with appropriate waterproofing measures, using appropriate, durable ceramic tiles on the pool deck and other exposed areas in the swimming pool environment will not only ensure minimal daily maintenance, it will also assist in the durability protection of the concrete,’ Campbell said.

Protecting patrons against bacteria and germs Together with their ‘asset protection’ benefits, using ceramic tiles on the pool deck and surrounding areas plays a major role in improving hygiene. However, inadequate cleaning procedures that, in many instances, involve little more than a daily ‘rinse down’ with cold water and only weekly, monthly, or less regular thorough cleaning, will result in high levels of bacteria, fungi and other pathogens.

Inadequate cleaning and hygiene procedures also result in a build-up of dirt (either airborne or from footwear and dirty feet) and body fats/oils, which can quickly negate the effectiveness of any slip-resistant surface.

Needless to say, a dirty or unhygienic pool deck can present a serious health risk to patrons – both in terms of infection and as a slip hazard.

corporate profile

While the traditional approach to overcoming these issues would have been to use an abundance of harsh chemical cleaners and disinfectants – many of which not only have a significant environmental impact, but can also degrade tile surfaces and grouts – the innovative HT Tile and Grout system eliminates the need to use harsh chemical agents and disinfectants to maintain cleanliness and hygiene.

The revolutionary HT system from world-renowned tile manufacturer AGROB BUCHTAL uses state-of-the-art materials technology to deliver ceramic tiles and grouts that are not only easy to clean, but also incorporate a chemicalfree antibacterial effect – eliminating bacteria, germs and bad odours.

The HT technology is an integrated part of the ceramic manufacturing process, using titanium to create a photocatalytic reaction activated by normal levels of indoor lighting. In HT grouts, these properties are also extremely effective in preventing the formation of a wide range of moulds.

HT tiles and grouts are easy to clean, resulting in a significant reduction in both cleaning time and the amount of cleaning chemicals and disinfectants required. This not only helps to reduce cleaning and maintenance costs and reduce the environmental impact of the facility, but it can also play a significant role in reducing both the risk of infection and slip injuries to patrons.

The HT system delivers a range of benefits: • No V.O.C.s (Volatile Organic Compounds) • Environmentally friendly • Easy to clean • Antibacterial effects without chemicals • Reduction in need for cleaning chemicals • Safe under foot • 100 per cent recyclable • Durable material, building longevity • Manufactured in accordance with ISO 14025

For further information, visit www.ceramicsolutions.com.au/ht

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For sales or further product information

Phone: 1300 937 469

Email: Sales@WirelessData.com.au

web: www.wirelessdata.com.au

corporate profile

HYTERA – LEADING TWO-WAY RADIO PROVIDER Hytera is a world-leading professional mobile communications solution provider. Its range of two-way radios has been adopted by government and public security, utility, transport, and enterprises, which receive the benefits of higher operational efficiency and security due to the advanced voice and data features of its products.

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ytera offers the most complete DMR portfolio, including portable two-way radios, mobile radios, repeaters, infrastructure and applications. Below is a snapshot of Hytera’s range: Hytera’s X1p is the world’s smallest full-power DMR radio, and has been highly accredited by professionals due to its versatile functionalities and innovative industrial design.

The Hytera RD965, a versatile backpack repeater, combined with the Hytera smart dispatch system, enables onthe-move, real-time group communication and dispatching functionalities.

Hytera PD795EX is the world’s most completely certified, intrinsically safe DMR radio, and it greatly improves communication efficiency while ensuring safety of professionals in dangerous scenarios, such as on oil and gas plants.

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Besides DMR radios, Hytera has also developed a range of TETRA radios (terrestrial trunked radio). Both DMR and TETRA are open digital radio standards for professional mobile radio users, specified by the European Telecommunications Standards Institute (ETSI). Hytera is one of a few companies to have mastered both protocols.

Founded in 1993 in Shenzhen, China, Hytera (SZ002583) is a leading player in the professional mobile radio (PMR) communication industry, with a large client base covering more than 80 countries and regions worldwide. Hytera values innovation and invests over 15 per cent of its revenue in research and development, and is actively involved in developing global PMR standards. Hytera is one of the few radio communication providers that master in all the three mainstream digital standards: TETRA (terrestrial trunked radio), DMR (digital mobile radio) and PDT (professional digital trunking).

For sales or further product information Phone: 1300 937 469 | Email: Sales@WirelessData.com.au | web: www.wirelessdata.com.au

green building

Melton Library and Learning Hub, Victoria

Green buildings help local governments to keep budgets in the black

By Robin Mellon, Chief Operating Officer, Green Building Council of Australia For many years, Council House 2 (CH2) in Melbourne stood as a green building icon, and a remarkable example of local government leadership.

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ut CH2 is no longer standing alone.

The number of Green Star projects being driven at the local government level has escalated in recent years, as councils recognise the unique roles they play in influencing building decisions made in their communities, and understand that they have a responsibility to invest in assets that meet the needs of their communities not just today, but for decades to come.

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What’s more, many councils in booming areas of Australia, and on the fringes of our cities, are determined to build right the first time – and they are turning to the Green Star rating system to help them.

A number of local councils – including Hobsons Bay, Manningham, Onkaparinga, Port Phillip, Sydney, Willoughby and Yarra – supported the development of the Green Star – Public Building rating tool, which they recognised could help them to report on environmental improvements and demonstrate the ongoing accountability and cost-efficiencies of their community buildings. Local government buildings, such as community centres, libraries, law courts, theatres, museums, art galleries and places of worship, can demonstrate better outcomes for the economy, the environment and the community by achieving Green Star ratings.

The Melton Library and Learning Hub in Victoria achieved a 5 Star Green Star – Public Building PILOT rating in 2013, representing ‘Australian Excellence’.

green building

Located on Melbourne’s western fringe, the City of Melton is one of the fastest-growing municipalities in Australia. This brings many challenges, but also opportunities for innovative projects, explains Mayor Kathy Majdlik.

Parramatta Square, which is targeting 5 Star Green Star ratings for all buildings

‘It is a central focus for lifelong learning and community activity, and we will educate our residents on the sustainability aspects of the building and encourage them to apply them at home where they can,’ Cr Majdlik says.

Environmental achievements at the Melton Library and Learning Hub include an 82 per cent reduction in potable water use, and a 43.7 per cent reduction in carbon emissions when compared to a standard practice building. This translates into a saving of almost $30,000 each year on utility costs.

The City of Joondalup in Perth’s outer northern suburbs was awarded a 4 Star Green Star – Public Building PILOT rating in 2013, signifying ‘Best Practice’, for the Currambine Community Centre. The $4 million project received the tick of approval for a range of features, including rainwater harvesting, photovoltaic panels, passive solar design, energy-efficient lighting and low water consumption appliances.

Joondalup Mayor Troy Pickard has said that the Green Star rating demonstrates the City’s commitment to setting the benchmarks for local government in Western Australia when it comes to environmental sustainability practices.

‘Making small changes within our control is how we can make a measurable contribution to preserving and enhancing our local environment. It’s doing what we can locally to be part of the response to a global issue like environmental sustainability,’ Cr Pickard says.

Other councils are also targeting Green Star ratings. Manningham City Council has registered its new civic precinct community hub to achieve Green Star certification, and the Council’s Director of Assets and Engineering, Leigh Harrison, says that a rating will provide ‘assurance that our sustainability aspirations can be delivered and verified. In doing so, we’ll leave our community with a lasting legacy.’

Joondalup Mayor Troy Pickard has said that the Green Star rating demonstrates the City’s commitment to setting the benchmarks for local government in Western Australia when it comes to environmental sustainability practices

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green building

Wyndham City Council, in outer western Melbourne, made history in October when it became the first to sign up to measure the efficiency and environmental performance of its threestorey Civic Centre Should it be any surprise, then, that a local government was the first organisation in the country to commit to achieving a Green Star – Performance rating for an existing building?

Melton Library and Learning Hub, Victoria

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Wyndham City Council, in outer western Melbourne, made history in October when it became the first to sign up to measure the efficiency and environmental performance of its three-storey Civic Centre. Wyndham Mayor Cr Bob Fairclough says, ‘Wyndham City is aiming for a 40 per cent reduction in corporate greenhouse gas emissions by 2015, and a $2.47 million federal government grant will allow us to convert the City’s 12,088 streetlights to compact energy-efficient fluorescent tubes.

‘These measures highlight our commitment to reducing our environmental footprint, and, through our involvement with Green Star – Performance, we’ll be able to measure the environmental performance of the Civic Centre, identify pathways to improve the building over time, and reduce its operational costs,’ Cr Fairclough adds.

Councils are also beginning to commit to largescale green building programs. Parramatta City Council became the first local government in Australia to seek a

green building

Green Star – Communities rating, and to specify Green Star ratings for each building across an entire precinct.

Parramatta City Council is targeting 5 Star Green Star ratings for all buildings across the six stages of Parramatta Square’s $1.6 billion, threehectare development. Council will also work with the Green Building Council of Australia (GBCA) to benchmark Parramatta Square against the Green Star – Communities categories of liveability, prosperity, environmental sustainability, design excellence, governance and innovation.

Lord Mayor of Parramatta Cr John Chedid says that Green Star certification ‘sends a clear message to our community that we are committed to building long-term assets that are sustainable, productive and fiscally responsible’.

And that’s the bottom line. When building projects are funded by public money, councils must be able to demonstrate the value of their investments and the accountability of taxpayers’ dollars.

Lord Mayor of Parramatta Cr John Chedid says that Green Star certification ‘sends a clear message to our community that we are committed to building long-term assets that are sustainable, productive and fiscally responsible A Green Star rating gives ratepayers the confidence that their community’s assets will deliver ongoing operational efficiencies and long-term value.

The Wyndham Civic Centre is the first building to commit to achieving a Green Star – Performance rating

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corporate profile

DESIGNED, SUPPLIED AND INSTALLED SUSTAINABLE, ENVIRONMENTALLY PROGRESSIVE SOLUTIONS FOR TODAY, TOMORROW AND THE FUTURE

Urban Energy Australasia provides tailored engineered solutions to clients across Australia who seek a cost-effective, sustainable solution to their heating, hot water and power requirements.

aided design (CAD) team are able to work alongside architects, consultants, construction companies and our clients from initial concept to design, installation and ongoing maintenance.

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We pride ourselves on working closely with our clients to gain a clear understanding of their requirements, and ensuring that they have a sound understanding of the solutions that we are going to deliver.

ased in Sydney, we specialise in providing our broad range of clients with turnkey solutions to their hot water, heating and power requirements.

Our in-house team of electrical, hydraulic and mechanical engineers, along with our project managers and computer-

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Our aim is to provide clients with the best products to achieve the desired outcomes, while delivering innovative and environmentally sustainable solutions. We apply this philosophy with all our clients and the extensive crosssection of products we deliver.

With each project we undertake, our team works closely with all parties to ensure that deadlines are met and projects

corporate profile

of services and the reduction of carbon, allowing them to be more competitive and environmentally proactive in an increasingly demanding market.

By entering into a BOOM program, Qantas has been able to reduce its energy costs and carbon emissions without having to have the working capital committed to such infrastructure. The BOOM program is just one of the many procurement options that Urban Energy is able to offer its clients.

are delivered on time and on budget. Our project managers coordinate the delivery of each project, using the skills of our engineers and installers to deliver exceptional results on every project, as we strive to exceed our clients’ expectations.

Urban Energy is able to provide: • environmentally sustainable designs • acoustic, electrical, hydraulic and mechanical installation

While over at North Sydney Pool, we worked to provide a 100-kilowatt cogeneration system that would heat the outdoor pool to 25 degrees all year round, and maintain the indoor pool at 29 degrees. The plant is able to help the council’s sustainability targets by reducing CO2 emissions by 367 tonnes per annum. The plant will produce more than 450 megawatts of electricity per annum, which will save the council over $58,000 per year, and that saving is likely to increase over time as electricity prices increase.

The Olympic pool facility accounted for 35 per cent of the Council’s total electricity usage.

Taronga Zoo strives to achieve sustainability and reduce environmental impact in all of its activities. Urban Energy has also been able to help the zoo continue this philosophy.

• project management • 24/7 remote monitoring and extended maintenance agreements • a range of procurement options.

Urban Energy has been busy in 2013 2013 has been a busy year for Urban Energy Australasia, with the largest trigeneration plant in Australia coming online at Sydney Airport, installation of numerous cogeneration systems at aquatic centres around the country, including a 100-kilowatt engine at the heritage-listed North Sydney Pool, and providing under-floor heating for the new lemur enclosure at Taronga Zoo. The trigeneration system at Sydney Airport provides over 20 megawatts of power to Qantas’s catering and jet base corporate centre, and T3. This project, which is scheduled to increase in size over the coming years, is a 20-year BOOM (build, own, operate and maintain) where Urban will provide all the electrical and thermal requirements for Qantas at Sydney airport.

The client on this project came to us with a number of objectives: reduction in operating costs, guaranteed supply THETHE AUSTRALIAN AUSTRALIAN LOCAL LOCAL GOVERNMENT GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK YEARBOOK EDITION EDITION 21 21 • 107 •Y

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The original concept was to solely use grid electricity to heat the water for the hydronic heating: Urban Energy was able to offer a solar alternative, which, by using the power of the sun, allowed Taronga Zoo to reduce the carbon footprint of the project by 8000 kilograms per year.

Urban Energy designed, supplied and installed a solution that included a Latento multi-coil tank with a nine-kilowatt electric heating element, two banks of solar thermal evacuated tubes and hydronic piping.

With over 60 domestic projects and 35 commercial projects on the go in 2013, Urban Energy has continued to deliver sustainable solutions that help reduce the environmental impact of individuals, businesses and councils across Australia. Currently, Urban Energy’s installed cogeneration and trigeneration systems reduce carbon emissions by 111 tonnes per day; that is 40,515 tonnes per year that is no longer being pumped into our atmosphere, and with each new system that is installed and comes online, this figure will keep on rising.

Urban Energy’s client list includes: • ASIO • Arup • Bovis Lend Lease • Brookfield Multiplex • BUPA • CSIRO Z108 • THE • THE AUSTRALIAN AUSTRALIAN LOCAL LOCAL GOVERNMENT GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK YEARBOOK EDITION EDITION 21 21

• Cundall • Qantas • North Sydney Council • New South Wales Department of Public Works • Shoalhaven City Council • Taronga Zoo.

Achieving Green Stars Our staff works closely with accredited consultants to supply the NABERS rating for the built environment as administered by the Department of Environment and Climate Change (DECC).

We strive to achieve the much sought after 5 Star Green rating, which sets the benchmark for ecologically sustainable design and environmental performance for commercial buildings in Australia.

As well as helping to raise the sustainability benchmark, commercial Urban help push the limits on residential projects, such as the NewActon Nishi apartments in Canberra, where, with help from Urban’s solar thermal hot water solution, Nishi has been able to deliver an average 8 star NatHERS rating.

We perform comprehensive modelling during the design phase to ensure that required performance parameters can be met.

energy

urban has the solution to reduce your energy costs Urban Energy Australasia specialise in designing viable alternative solutions to meet our clients energy requirements.

We offer an extensive range of alternative and renewable energy resoures. From industry scale solar thermal, to CHP (Combined Heat and Power) electricity generation, Urban Energy has the solution to reduce your energy costs.

Urban Energy offers a custom energy audit, detailed engineering design and complete install. We have install teams across Australia with a wealth of experience in our field.

For more information on how we can cut your energy costs, contact Urban Energy Australasia on 1300 66 99 81.

URBAN ENRGY SOLUTIONS AT WORK: This system utilises a sophisitcated Cogeneration system and waste heat recovery to efficently generate pool heating for an indoor 25m pool and an outdoor 50m pool, hot water for showers and a proportion of the electricity used.

The Cogeneration system is a 100kW cogeneration system.

Producing ecologically sustainable designs and environmental performance for commercial buildings in Australia 1/10 Anella Avenue Castle Hill NSW 2154 Ph: 1300 66 99 81 Fax (02) 8850 6344 info@urbanenergy.com.au

green building

How green buildings can boost workplace productivity Emma Lloyd, Communications Officer, Good Environmental Choice Australia There’s an ever-growing awareness of the need for sustainability in the places that we live and work. Local government premises should be leading the way as role models for their communities by showcasing solutions that have positive impacts on the environment.

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hankfully, a large number of the buildings that are going up today are a vast improvement on what was being built just a few years ago. Green workplaces and buildings are proliferating across our cities, and the need to be seen as ‘eco-friendly’ is now a major focus for many organisations.

As it turns out, the benefits of ‘green’ workplaces don’t just tick boxes for the environment; they also have plenty of benefits for their occupants.

When it comes to the furnishings and products used in a workspace, purchasing decisions can have a direct impact on the health, wellbeing and productivity of employees. The key is to improve the indoor air quality.

There’s often a focus on looks and functionality when furnishing and designing a workspace, but less thought is given to making sure that the work environment is as safe and healthy as it can be.

Decisions about the paint on the walls, the choice of flooring materials and furniture, and even the cleaning

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green building

Poor indoor air quality doesn’t just cause workers to suffer; it also affects their productivity. This is particularly important for businesses in which productivity is peoplebased, such as in local government, or occupants of commercial offices products used can all have an impact on the health of those working in these enviornments.

Poor indoor air quality can be caused by any number of factors. Inadequate ventilation, chemical contaminants from both indoor and outdoor sources, and biological contaminants are the key factors identified by the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) as being responsible for ‘sick building syndrome’1, where occupants experience ‘acute health and comfort effects’ that can be reasonably linked to time spent in a building, but with no obvious specific cause. Occupants negatively affected by the building may complain of headaches; irritation to eyes, nose, throat or skin; fatigue and difficulty concentrating; a cough; or dizziness and nausea. They usually feel a sense of relief soon after walking out of the building.

Often, it’s what’s inside the building that counts.

The majority of indoor air pollution comes from interior sources, and can include pollutants from adhesives, upholstered furniture, flooring, paints and cleaning products. Each of these can emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs), such as formaldehyde or potentially 1 www.epa.gov/iaq/pdfs/sick_building_factsheet.pdf

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green building

Improving the indoor air quality in your building does not have to involve moving to new premises, or completely remodelling the space.

It can be as simple as changing the products used by your cleaning staff or updating your flooring

carcinogenic substances, which can trigger allergies, asthma, and other typical sick building syndrome symptoms as they readily vaporise into the surrounding air. And despite the ‘fresh’ smell of new carpets and recently applied paint, brand-new building spaces can often be a cause of sick building syndrome.

Poor indoor air quality doesn’t just cause workers to suffer; it also affects their productivity. This is particularly important for businesses in which productivity is peoplebased, such as in local government, or commercial offices.

A 2009 study2 by the Kador Group into the tenants of Green Star-rated 500 Collins Street in Melbourne investigated the effects of indoor air quality on workplace productivity. The existing tenants – a small law firm – were in the process of moving to a newly refurbished space in the same building, with the refurbishments obtaining a 5 Star Green Star rating for Office Design and meeting criteria for environmental and human 2 www.propertyoz.com.au/library/Employee Productivity in a Sustainable Building.pdf

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green building

health standards. The new office resulted in significant reductions in sick leave (down 39 per cent), increased average typing speed (up nine per cent) and accuracy, and a seven per cent increase in the billings ratio for the lawyers, despite a 12 per cent reduction in average hours worked each month. This suggests that their productivity improved dramatically following the move. There were also improvements for the workers’ health, with significant reductions in the frequency of headaches, cold and flu, sore eyes, fatigue, and reported poor concentration.

While it is still legal to use products that emit nasties like VOCs, I am sure that many government offices would seek to eliminate them if they were aware of the problem, and the fact that it is so easy to address

air pollution, and are one of the easiest things to change to boost the air quality in your offices. Other easy solutions include placing some indoor plants in your workspace to help filter the air, or choosing environmentally preferable furniture and fittings. The easiest way to find out if manufacturers are making accurate claims about whether or not their products are better for the environment and safer for human health is to look for evidence of independent thirdparty certification, such as the Good Environmental Choice Australia (GECA) ecolabel.

‘With a renewed focus on productivity, it might be surprising that simple procurement decisions can have a real and measureable impact on an organisation,’ says Rupert Posner, CEO of GECA. ‘While it is still legal to use products that emit nasties like VOCs, I am sure that many government offices would seek to eliminate them if they were aware of the problem, and the fact that it is so easy to address.’

Although measuring productivity is a complex issue, it’s clear that more building owners and businesses are beginning to recognise the link between sustainable design and better results in the workplace. Simple measures, such as improving indoor air quality by changing the products inside of your workspace, can have a direct impact on your health, your work environment and your productivity levels.

References:

Improving the indoor air quality in your building does not have to involve moving to new premises, or completely remodelling the space. It can be as simple as changing the products used by your cleaning staff, or updating your flooring. For example, if you’re considering repainting your offices, choose non-VOC or low-VOC paint. Paint is one of the worst offenders when it comes to VOC emissions: as a fresh coat dries, it can cause a dramatic rise in indoor VOC levels immediately following painting, which can continue seeping out for several years.

Sick Building Syndrome fact sheet – Environmental Protection Agency www.epa.gov/iaq/pdfs/sick_building_factsheet.pdf Sustainability Victoria 2009, ‘Employee Productivity in a Sustainable Building, Pre-and Post Occupancy Studies in 500 Collins Street’ www.propertyoz.com.au/library/Employee%20Productivity%20 in%20a%20Sustainable%20Building.pdf

Cleaning products can also contain a vast array of chemicals that may contribute to indoor

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corporate profile

STRATEGIC PLANNING AND PROGRAM INTEGRATION CAN ACHIEVE BEHAVIOUR CHANGE EnviroCom has assisted local governments across Australia to implement strategic education and behaviour change programs since 1998. Using a flexible and adaptable milestone approach, EnviroCom has assisted councils in developing engaged and resilient communities, better able to contribute to and sustain council initiatives over time.

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he challenge that many local government officers face is how to design education and engagement programs that bring about real on-ground change in public culture towards environmental issues, whether conserving energy, reducing waste to landfill, reducing water use or enhancing biodiversity.

How can they invest their budget efficiently and effectively, and, most importantly, gather valuable quantitative and qualitative data to prove the investment is paying off and incrementally improve sustainable behaviours within the community?

Too often environmental behaviour change initiatives are isolated and ill-considered, and delivered on a budget windfall, political agenda or topical environmental imperative. Often labelled as ‘education’, these programs can incorporate expensive mass media events that achieve short-term issue recognition, but rarely deliver long-term community change.

Two areas commonly overlooked in program development are strategic planning and the collection and use of relevant data – both of which are imperative to long-term program success. A successful and measurable program should be founded on clear and achievable goals, which recognise and integrate with broader corporate strategies and business plans. This approach will assist in securing ongoing financial commitment and will provide meaningful information to report back to the community.

Robust data on current community knowledge and behaviours provides the base on which a program should be developed. Embedding sound quantitative and qualitative data collection methods at commencement, and at strategic intervals throughout the program, will ensure that reporting goes beyond ‘bums on seats’ feedback to underpin and strengthen program reporting by actually demonstrating the extent of behaviour change.

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The milestone program model incorporates a number of common elements: • investigation and analysis of current behaviours and attitudes • pre-development and ongoing program data collection • development of program methodologies that build community capacity to implement and sustain action • feedback mechanism tools to ensure that data is returned to council and progress can be monitored • integration with other council programs to maximise outcomes and budgets.

corporate profile

home composting systems, and the remainder through home worm farm systems. In addition to results about waste diversion, respondents described the colour, odour, moisture and productivity of the compost and worm farm systems. In both systems, the descriptors provided by respondents indicated that the systems were working well.

In composting, as an example, approximately 70 per cent of respondents described a healthy compost system on all counts. As a measurement of workshop quality, 96 per cent of respondents indicated that the workshops provided valuable information in achieving these outcomes.

Using a milestone approach, the Redland Home Sustainability project measured domestic resource use by investigating household behaviours and infrastructure. This measurement was undertaken in conjunction with faceto-face household educational intervention and immediate feedback reports. An initial pilot and a subsequent sixmonth ‘sustained behaviour assessment’ were completed using a specially designed assessment tool. Findings from the assessment showed that households that had previously participated in the strategic education program demonstrated statistically significant (T-test 90 per cent CUI) reductions in the consumption of energy and water, as compared to households in the ‘control’ group.

EnviroCom has developed strategies, methodologies, and training, and delivered environmental education programs, both discrete and ongoing, on behalf of more than 60 local government clients. Further examples of programs developed and undertaken by EnviroCom can be found at www.envirocom.com.au, or contact Paula Harrison, National Manager on 07 3457 2400.

To measure the real success of organic waste workshops on the Gold Coast, EnviroCom surveyed past participants with a total of 60 survey responses received. Based on the self-reported results, the 60 households diverted more than 80 cubic metres of organic waste from landfill in a single year. It is estimated that participants diverted more than 77 cubic metres through

EnviroCom Australia® Education, Training, Research and Planning Corporate training Strategic education planning Community outreach Curriculum linked resources Program monitoring and evaluation Waste auditing and management planning Data collection methodologies

Servicing

Local Government

State Government

Community

Business

Education Sector www.envirocom.com.au

Queensland Ph (07) 3457 2400 New South Wales Ph (02) 9724 3889 Victoria Ph (03) 9703 5288

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lighting

BRIGHT LIGHTS FOR PUBLIC SITES

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reen Frog Systems is a world-leading designer of high-quality LED lighting and solar lighting solutions, with a head office and research and development (R&D) facility based in Adelaide, South Australia.

street light that meets full international and Australian standards.

This exciting new product can be installed by anyone. The company’s biggest market has been caravan parks and councils, where local staff install the lights themselves.

Green Frog Systems’ products are designed in Australia for our unique and challenging environment, and are used in oil and gas, mining, industrial, commercial, and domestic applications all over the world.

High-power LED floodlighting

The success of designing a quality light that has been proven in our harsh outback has led us to ongoing R&D of our own LED light, battery and controlling technology. This has gained us worldwide export opportunities, especially into the Middle East and Africa.

Green Frog Systems’ reputation for quality and reliability extends to its LED floodlighting products. The company offers a range of high-temperature LED high bays and floodlighting for ovals, car parks and warehouses. These lights are designed specifically for Australia’s harsh climate. A large mining client requested for Green Frog Systems to design an LED high bay that could operate in a 60°C environment, with high reliability and military-grade components.

Green Frog Systems also specialises in custom design for lighting projects where a commercially available product is not bright enough, reliable enough or aesthetically appropriate. Give the team at Green Frog Systems a call to discuss your specific lighting needs.

– David Wilson, Director of Green Frog Systems.

Solar park/street lighting Solar lighting can often be complex and unreliable, and can fail to meet standard lighting requirements. Additionally, the high cost of the unit and the skilled labour required to install solar lighting mean it isn’t a viable long-term option for many customers.

Fortunately, Green Frog Systems has designed a simple, reliable self-installation kit that is used in many councils, mining camps and caravan parks across Australia. This effective, straightforward product has secured Green Frog Systems a number of key federal projects.

‘Energising the Flinders’ project Green Frog Systems was awarded the ‘Energising the Flinders’ project under the federal government’s Regional Development Australia Fund in 2012, which included the Flinders Ranges Council’s release of a useful YouTube video, entitled ‘Flinders embrace solar power’.

Through this initiative, Green Frog Systems installed over 100 lights across four councils, and in 2013 the Flinders Ranges Council was so impressed with the quality, performance and reliability of the product that they purchased more units.

Simplicity of design and cutting-edge technology As Green Frog Systems exports its technology all over Australia and the world, the design team has developed a solar park/ 116 X • THE • THE AUSTRALIAN AUSTRALIAN LOCAL LOCAL GOVERNMENT GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK YEARBOOK EDITION EDITION 2121

The Gold Coast Holiday Park and Motel purchased solar lights from Green Frog Systems as we had a section of the park that was poorly lit, and we wanted to reduce our carbon footprint. The unit was very well laid-out, easy and simple to install by our own staff, with the instructions bulletproof. The light output is brilliant with a good spread.

We would certainly recommend buying these lights as they’re easy to install and maintain, and able to withstand periodic flooding.

– Mark Siderdick, General Manager Big 4 Gold Coast Holiday Park

Phone: (08) 7200 3909 Fax: (08) 7200 5551 Web: www.greenfrogsystems.com.au PO Box 107, Surrey Downs SA 5126 ABN: 12 307 369 844

• Solar park/street lighting and LED lighting products designed in Australia for our conditions • Durable, reliable and simple to install without skilled resources • Used by many councils, mining companies and caravan parks across Australia • Adelaide, South Australia, design, manufacturing and R&D facility

PO Box 107, Surrey Downs, South Australia 5126 Ph: (08) 7200 3909

info@greenfrogsystems.com.au www.greenfrogsystems.com.au

The unit was very well laid-out, easy and simple to install by our own staff, with the instructions bulletproof.

Mark Siderdick, General Manager – Big 4 Gold Coast Holiday Park

lighting

Australian streets and parks poised for LED influx

By Bryan Douglas, CEO, Lighting Council Australia

According to a report prepared for the Commonwealth Government in 2011, there are approximately 2.28 million street lighting lamps in service in Australia, with around 33 per cent on main roads and 67 per cent on local roads. The annual energy cost of public lighting in Australia exceeds $125 million (and more than $250 million including maintenance). Street lighting is the single largest source of greenhouse gas emissions from local government, typically accounting for 30 to 60 per cent of their total greenhouse gas emissions.

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gainst this background, Australia, along with the rest of the world, will witness large-scale conversion of conventional street and public lighting to LED technology. Because of their longevity, controllability and, above all, efficiency, LEDs are now an attractive substitute for conventional mercury vapour, high-pressure sodium, metal halide and linear and compact fluorescent technologies used in minor roads and other public spaces; however, while there is now suitable LED product on the market for streets and other public places, municipal authorities need to exercise caution when investing in LED technology.

LED street lighting comes of age: case studies Case study 1: City of Sydney The City of Sydney is in the process of replacing 6500 conventional lights with LEDs in central Sydney, Glebe, Darlinghurst, Zetland, Pyrmont, Kings Cross, Newtown and Redfern. More than 2600 street and park lights have already been installed.

The City announced in August 2013 that it had saved almost $300,000 and reduced its energy use by more than 25 per cent since March 2012. Public lighting accounts for one-third of the City’s annual electricity bill, and a large part of its greenhouse gas emissions.

Importantly, more than 90 per cent of people surveyed by the City said that they found the new lights appealing, and three-quarters said the LEDs’ white light improved visibility.

The New South Wales Government is following the City’s lead by encouraging 41 councils across Sydney, the Central Coast and the Hunter regions to work with Ausgrid to implement similar LED lighting projects.

Case study 2: City of Los Angeles

LEDs illuminate a roadway in Sydney’s CBD as part of City of Sydney’s LED Project. Members of the public have commented on the high visual appeal of the new lighting.

In the largest solid-state lighting retrofit installation in the world to date, the Los Angeles LED Conversion Program replaced over 141,000 streetlight fixtures with LED units over a four-year period. The expected savings of the new lights has exceeded the initial program goals. Energy use has been reduced by 63 per cent and carbon emissions by 47,583 metric tons a year.

This proposal has generated savings in energy and

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This LED Project installation shows excellent illumination of a pedestrian pathway on a Sydney waterfront.

The importance of the LED Conversion Program cannot be overstated. It is a shining example of how green technology can be both environmentally responsible and cost-effective maintenance costs that will pay for the estimated loan amount in seven years.

Ed Ebrahimian, Director of the Bureau of Street Lighting at the City of Los Angeles, recently commented: ‘The importance of the LED Conversion Program cannot be overstated. It is a shining example of how green technology can be both environmentally responsible and cost-effective. With the LED program, we have transformed the night landscape of the City of Los Angeles, made our city safer and pedestrianfriendly at night, and have exceeded our initial program goals on both energy efficiency and CO2 reductions.

Angelinos have embraced the new white LED light, as we have received many positive comments from citizens, community groups, the Los Angeles Police Department and even the Dark Skies Association for the reduced sky glow at night, reduced light pollution and trespass.

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leading the way with our LED program, which has become a model program and example for a lot of cities, as we continue to get recognition and inquiries from municipalities and utilities around the world.’

Case study 3: Seattle Seattle’s publicly owned utility, Seattle City Light, is converting its residential streetlights from high-pressure sodium lights to LEDs. The decision was made after thorough evaluation and positive results from pilot projects. Seattle City Light has characterised the benefits of LED conversion as: • approximately 48 to 62 per cent lower energy consumption • high-pressure sodium luminaires, most installed in the mid-1980s, are at the end of their useful lives and failing. LEDs will provide better service reliability and lower maintenance costs

lighting

Australian road lighting standards

New York City has embarked on an LED conversion project, which, when completed, will be even larger than that of Los Angeles • reduction in greenhouse gas emissions: • in manufacturing • when LEDs are in use • fewer service vehicle trips for repairs will mean a reduction of about 20,000 tons of carbon each year • replacement of luminaires with LED fixtures will provide three to four times longer field life than highpressure sodium • LEDs are not affected by truck and roadway structure vibration • better light quality (whiter/cooler colour rendering) • light quality improves safety because of depth of field and peripheral vision enhancements, without distorting colour.

The utility has estimated the simple payback for LED conversion of residential lights at 7.7 years. Once all residential fixtures have been replaced, they will save the City an estimated $2.4 million in annual energy and maintenance costs.

Case study 4: New York City New York City has embarked on an LED conversion project, which, when completed, will be even larger than that of Los Angeles. The project began along highways in 2011, and by 2017 240,000 lights will have been replaced across all five boroughs.

It may come as a surprise that the current Australian Standard for road lighting excludes LEDs. The Australian Standard AS 3771 – ‘Road lighting luminaires with integral control gear’ was published in 1990 as a consequence of a multitude of contracts and specifications issued by the former electricity supply authorities. In 2004, this was superseded by AS/NZS 1158.6 ‘Lighting for roads and public spaces Part 6: Luminaires’, which adopted some of the principles within the international road lighting standard; however, it was – and remains – highly prescriptive, so much so that it effectively rules out the use of LEDs. In an attempt to redress the prescriptive nature of AS/NZS 1158.6, Standards Australia committee LG-002 (Lighting for Roads and Public Spaces) is now updating the Standard. The first stage will see some reduction in the prescriptive elements and, importantly, the admission of LEDs. It is anticipated that this new version will be available in May 2014. The second stage of the reform process will take longer, and is expected to result in a standard that more closely reflects the international standard IEC 605982-3 Luminaires for road and street lighting.

International Energy Agency’s 4E SSL Annex The Solid State Lighting Annex was established in 2009 under the framework of the International Energy Agency’s Efficient Electrical End-Use Equipment (4E) Implementing Agreement to provide advice to its 10 member countries – one of which is Australia – seeking to implement quality assurance programs for SSL lighting. The goal of this work is to reduce the risk in using SSL products and to provide governments and consumers with recommendations that they can trust when investing in SSL products. The performance tiers identify a suite of metrics and values related to minimum performance values of SSL for energy efficiency, lighting quality and safety.

In October 2013, the IEA published ‘Outdoor Lighting (Street Lighting)’ as part of the 4E SSL Annex.

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The performance criteria for this category of lighting include:

Careful consideration required when investing in LEDs

• minimum downward luminaire efficacy (lm/watt)

Earlier this year, Lighting Council Australia invited Professor Georges Zissis, Head of the Light and Matter Research Group at LaPlaCE (Laboratoire Plasma et Conversion d’Énergie) at the University of Toulouse, and a world-renowned expert in lighting systems research and design – and, in particular, its application for street lighting – to deliver seminars in Australia. In addition to his role at LaPlaCE, Professor Zissis is Task 1 Leader of the IEA’s 4E SSL Annex referred to previously.

• lumen maintenance • minimum rated luminaire lifetime (F50) • colour rendering index (CRI) • colour maintenance (Δ u’,v’ at 6000h) • operating temperature (range °C) • ingress protection (IP), impact protection (IK) • correlated colour temperature (K) and tolerance <6500K • chromaticity tolerance (Du’v’) • flicker (flicker index).

Further information may be found at ssl.iea-4e.org.

Professor Zissis characterised the advantages of LEDs as high luminance, excellent colour saturation, high luminous efficacy, high energy conversion efficacy, small dimensions and lightweight, robustness, long lifespan, low-voltage power supply and ease of dimming; however, he went on to document some of the issues and problems with the technology. These included: • eventual limits to efficacy of around 250 lumens per watt estimated to be reached in 2025

Professor Zissis characterised the advantages of LEDs as high luminance, excellent colour saturation, high luminous efficacy, high energy conversion efficacy, small dimensions and lightweight, robustness, long lifespan, lowvoltage power supply and ease of dimming

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• a marked difference between LED efficacy and system efficacy arising from thermal management losses, optical losses, ballast losses and photometry losses • marked variations between claimed and tested performance • falsification by some vendors of test certificates • a multiplicity of conflicting standards • issues with power supplies, which include poor manual soldering, unreliable wiring, low-quality components, low-quality chemical capacitors, hot points and low mechanical quality • power factor and cost issues • flicker • blue light hazard • environmental impact.

Municipal authorities and others contemplating a switch to LEDs are well advised to do their homework. Speak to electricity utilities and others who have conducted LED trials. Above all, deal only with reputable suppliers.

lighting

Illuminating communities Solar street lighting is becoming the way of the future for discerning local councils and shires.

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nstalling solar street lighting is an exciting new option for local governments to reduce energy and maintenance costs, illuminate hard-to-light areas, and benefit the environment. Many local councils and shires across Australia are already being ‘turned on’ by solar street lighting – with more to follow suit in the wake of positive results.

Solar street lighting has a host of important practical, financial and environmental benefits. Energyefficient lighting is already being used in homes and

businesses throughout the country; local councils and shires are the next logical step forward for the green lighting movement. Central Victoria Greenhouse Alliance Chair Karen Corr says, ‘For years, people […] have been replacing lights in their homes with energy-efficient bulbs to save money, but every night in streets and parks, they see thousands of old, inefficient streetlights switched on.’

By upgrading streetlights to solar luminaires, local governments have an opportunity to not just reduce installation, maintenance and energy costs, but also to affect a more resounding change to local environmental action. Councillor Matt Burnett of the Gladstone Regional Council, which recently installed solar street lighting in the heavily used Harvey Road car park, can attest to this fact. Councillor Burnett explains, ‘The installation of the solar-powered lights is about meeting our community’s expectations and helping the environment.’

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But aside from the ethical benefit of a green lighting solution, when cost is a driving factor, solar still comes out on top. Solar street lighting is upwards of eight per cent less expensive to purchase and install than other lighting options, and can lead to astronomical savings on power bills. And considering that many local governments do not own their poles and wires – instead using lamps provided

by Ausgrid and other energy providers – the benefit of solar lighting is that councils have more control over equipment maintenance and, thus, cost.

Solar lights’ independence from the power grid means they can be installed in areas that are hard to light, using systems such as Ausgrid, which rely on mains cables Another benefit of solar street lighting is its increased independence and life expectancy. When Warrnambool City Council installed two solar streetlights at the previously ill-lit Russells Creek crossing along Bromfield Street, they saw the immediate benefit of a lighting system that was independent of the power grid, was immune to power outages, and did not contribute to the city’s lighting bill. Solar lights’ independence from the power grid means they can be installed in areas that are hard to light, using systems such as Ausgrid, which rely on mains cables. As Mayor Michael Neoh explains, ‘The solar lights were a cost-effective, environmentally sensitive solution.’ These solar LEDs have a life expectancy in excess of 50,000 hours.

In a 2012 report commissioned by the Devonport Council in Tasmania into the potential benefit of using solar lighting in buildings and streets throughout the city, it was revealed that LED lamps potentially have a

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very high luminous efficiency and a long life; they are ‘directional’, so they direct light rather than spread light widely; and they are ‘instant start-up’, which enables the use of motion-sensing controllers to further reduce energy use. The report also illuminated another environmental benefit: LED lights don’t contain mercury, so they offer easier disposal at end of life.

Another council going the way of the solar street lamp is the City of Botany Bay. The council recently commissioned Solar G to install four solar streetlights at newly built playgrounds around their district. The 32-watt LED fittings, which were chosen because of the 50,000-

hour life expectancy, are virtually maintenance-free and will operate for eight continuous hours, and the full cutoff optic meets dark sky requirements.

In some cases, the cost of installing or retrofitting energy-efficient lights can be substantial – but the longterm benefit of making the switch to green lighting is invaluable. In addition, installation of these solar lights is much less complicated; it requires no digging, cables or mains connections. For hard-to-light areas, there are few better options than the simple solar streetlight.

For those councils and shires considering solar street lighting, there are still some considerations to take into account before making your final decision: it’s worth reading extensively about your solar light providers to ensure that you are getting the best and most up-to-date technology available.

In the 2012 Devonport Council report, it was noted that some solar lights differ drastically in terms of result and life expectancy. Make sure you are picking a provider that will correctly install the fittings, and one that will provide you with the best in solar light innovation.

As long as you’re choosing the most up-to-date technology, you needn’t worry that your solar light will be troublesome – the latest models are proving to be extremely durable and low-fuss.

Do your budget – and your environment – a favour, and consider solar street lighting for your region. Installing solar street lighting is cost-effective, energy-efficient and environmentally friendly, and also significantly reduces labour and maintenance.

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LIGHTING THE WAY

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ED Roadway Lighting Ltd (LRL) is a Canadianheadquartered manufacturer of LED-based street and area lighting and control systems.

Our customers include local authorities, utilities and commercial-industrial users. Our industry-leading NXTTM and Satellite™ luminaires have been designed for reliability, energy efficiency and performance.

• tool-less, field-replaceable LED light engine, which allows for the upgrading of LEDs and field-swapping of optics

LRL entered the Australian market in 2010, and currently has more than 30 installations in six states and two territories. With a local sales presence, as well as extensive manufacturing and technical support, clients are assured of reliable service, both before and after the sale.

• optional built-in sensor that allows LED depreciation to be measured and reported over the service life of the luminaire.

With installations in more than 37 countries, LRL’s technology has been proven in a variety of climates and conditions. LRL’s design philosophy includes attention to component-level detail, and in particular to power supply design. LRL power supplies are designed and manufactured by LRL, and backed by our OEM warranty.

LRL recently launched the award-winning NXTTM series luminaires. NXT-S was selected for inclusion in the 2013 Illuminating Engineering Society (IES) Progress Report.

IES recognised the NXT-S as a ‘unique and significant advancement to the art and science of lighting’.

• tool-less, field-replaceable surge module option • tool-less, field-replaceable driver • smart street lighting for smart cities: available with Smart Grid capabilities with leading industry partners

Our luminaires are also ideal for grid-tied or gridindependent solar installations, and we have completed such installations in Canada, Jamaica and Australia.

Please contact our local representative, Pecan Lighting (www.pecanlighting.com.au) or LRL (www.ledroadwaylighting.com) to learn more about how our innovative solutions can provide energy savings, reduce maintenance costs and help meet your sustainability goals.

NXT benefits:

About Pecan Lighting Pecan Lighting is a leading Australian supplier of LEDbased street and area lighting fixtures and control systems. Pecan Lighting is located in South Australia with design and manufacturing facilities in Adelaide.

Pecan Lighting offers the complete range of products from LED Roadway Lighting Ltd.

• future-proof design allows for upgrades as technology evolves (e.g. improved LED efficiency)

For more information, contact Pecan at info@pecanlighting.com.au.

NXT-S was recently awarded Best in Class (Local Residential Roadway) in the Next Generation LuminairesTM Design Competition. This competition is sponsored by IES, the U.S. Department of Energy, and the International Association of Lighting Designers.

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DESIGNED WITH THE FUTURE IN MIND

UPGRADEABLE LIGHT ENGINE

UPGRADEABLE POWER SUPPLY WITH FIELD ADJUSTMENT SWITCH

• Award winning design • Next Generation LuminairesTM 2013 Best in Class Award • IES Progress Report 2013 • Future-proof design allows for tool-less upgrade as LED efficiencies increase over time • Tool-less, field-replaceable light engines, power supply and surge protection device (optional)

13 Acorn Road, Dry Creek, South Australia T: (08) 8349 8917 E: info@pecanlighting.com.au www.pecanlighting.com.au

UPGRADEABLE SURGE MODULE (OPTIONAL)

• Horizontal or post-top mount options • Purpose-built driver designed and manufactured in-house for reliability • Lowest total life-cycle cost

www.ledroadwaylighting.com

information+technology innovation technology

SAFETY THROUGH RELIABLE COMMUNICATIONS – ICOM (AUSTRALIA)

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com (Australia) was established in 1982 to supply quality radio communication equipment and service to both Australia and the South Pacific region. Icom (Australia) is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Icom Inc., based in Japan, which has sites in other major countries across the world.

The company has an extensive range of products manufactured at Icom Japan’s state-ofthe-art facilities, which meet ISO9001:2000 and JISQ9001:2000 standards. Products include: Commercial Land Mobile (Digital and Analogue), Marine (Communication and Navigation), Air band, UHF CB, Amateur and Receiver units. The communications products offered by Icom are recognised worldwide for their quality and reliability.

Icom’s commercial two-way radio products are well suited to the demanding rigours present at local government level – everything from public safety, zoning and construction, to conservation and environmental functions. They feature unparalleled build quality and classleading innovations, including vital safety features such as loneworker and man-down alerts.

As the name suggests, the loneworker function is designed to assist organisations with

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employees working in secluded areas. It is designed for the worker to initiate calls on a regular basis so that dispatch stations can keep in regular contact, ensuring safety. If a call is not initiated within a certain time period, an emergency signal is sent back to base, allowing emergency procedures to begin. The man-down function uses a motion detector that will send an emergency signal back to base if the radio is kept in a horizontal position for a pre-set time period (hence the name ‘man-down’).

In 2013, Icom released IDAS dPMR, which is a digital radio technology designed to be low in complexity, yet high on functionality. Digital radio systems offer many advantages over analogue. Although output power remains constant, digital signals can effectively be received over greater distances and remain audible right up to the fringe of the transmission range. Analogue signals, however, will deteriorate the further away they get from the point of transmission. Signals are also much clearer on digital radio, and offer added security through encryption.

With the advanced flexibility of IDAS dPMR, communications systems can be upgraded one radio at a time if need be, putting the digital migration path in the hands of the organisation. This is because the controller essentially acts as an interpreter between different protocols. It is the perfect choice for organisations wanting to increase employee safety by integrating a reliable, innovative communications solution into the workplace.

When searching for serious communications, count on Icom. Icom is recognised worldwide as a reliable two-way radio brand name. You can find out more about IDAS dPMR radio equipment by emailing Icom via sales@icom.net.au or visiting www.icom.net.au.

information technology

Can you run that town?

Anyone who’s ever wondered what it takes to run an Australian town can tap into that curiosity with the Run That Town app, available to iPhone, iPod Touch and iPad users. This app is a game that is played using Census data, and challenges users, who have been elected ‘head honchos’ of their local areas, to make decisions for their communities.

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he Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS) is the source of the Census information that forms the basis of the game. The ABS wanted to give everyday Australians a way of looking at Census data that makes it relevant for them, and marketing firm Leo Burnett came up with Run That Town – a simulation of Australian communities. The game asks users, ‘Have you ever thought your local area could run better? Well, why don’t we put you in charge?’

The game has a lovely aesthetic and is very user-friendly, and it also provides a lot more fun than an app about local governance ought to Reviewers of the game mention their surprise at the slickness and fun that Run That Town offers, comparing it to SimCity and other games that you can download onto your device. You’ll be asked to approve or reject proposals for council developments, such as sports grounds and community centres, based on the Census information that you have at hand, and to try to keep the

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population happy while meeting your requirements as town leader. The game has a lovely aesthetic and is very user-friendly, and it also provides a lot more fun than an app about local governance ought to!

Sue Taylor, Director in the 2016 Census, says that by using core demographic data, the game demonstrates

information technology

Run That Town offers a unique insight into how Census data can be used the many ways Census data can be used by everyday Australians in a light-hearted and entertaining way.

Run That Town, though putting you in pseudo local government decision-making situations, is unexpectedly entertaining; it’s narrated by one of Australia’s mostloved comedians, Shaun Micallef, which gives you an idea of the humour behind it. The opening headline blames your appointment to the position on a ‘bureaucratic mix-up that nobody can quite explain’.

Further, employing a lifeguard at the new pool prompts a resident to give positive feedback, saying, ‘I can bring my kids to the pool now knowing that there’s a trained guard there to watch them. Also, he’s a babe.’

It can be quite disheartening to discover that your popularity with your demographic is dropping, leading you to really focus on the changes that the town wants and needs. Luckily, this writer chose wisely by building a brewery for residents of her town, earning some popularity points.

‘Run That Town offers a unique insight into how Census data can be used. The game is an innovative and fun way to communicate with the public, while embracing digital media,’ says Taylor.

‘Run That Town is a strategy game with a twist that is intended for a wide audience, offering both one-time and ongoing users a unique insight into the value of Census data.

‘I encourage people to download the game, take control of any Australian suburb and shape it the way you want by using real Census data, and see how your decisions affect your town’s demographics.’

In July 2013, Run That Town won FWA Mobile of the Day, which is an industry-recognised internet award program and is the most visited website award program on the internet. With over 60,000 downloads and a fourstar rating, Run That Town is proving to be a big hit.

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THE MOBILE REVOLUTION

By Ken Moule Enterprise Mobility is the next frontier in IT service delivery for local government. Over the next few years, we can expect to see progressive councils embrace mobile devices to integrate field crews into the corporate workflow and engage with their citizens.

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obile computers are part of today’s reality. The streets are brimming with members of the general public toting powerful mobile devices, consuming wireless data and plotting their location on mobile maps.

By contrast, the corporate world is dominated by servers and desktops, punctuated with some brave attempts to extend desktop services to road warrior laptops. Why are these worlds so different?

The truth is that much of corporate information technology (IT) is locked in an old world while consumers are riding the latest wave. But change is coming.

It has been an express ride from the valve technology of the 1940s, through to the semiconductor-based computers of the 1960s.

It was the ‘mini-computers’ of the 1980s that opened the gate for business computing by pushing down the cost curve.

Things jumped again when the first IBM personal computer (PC) was turned on in 1982. Suddenly the PCs are being chased down by a plethora of clever mobile devices.

By next year we expect the world to have more mobile computers than desktops. Many businesses are struggling to keep up.

The first wave of change was about smaller, faster, cheaper and better graphics. The recent game-changer has been our progress to a more connected world.

All this has made Enterprise Mobility the hot topic in corporate IT. It is now all about integrating mobile workers into the corporate workflow.

The courier business is a great example of integrated business mobility. We have all seen delivery drivers scan a package, collect a signature and go quickly on their way.

Productivity and customer service improvements over traditional paper processes are obvious.

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The Hon. David Crisafulli, Queensland Minister for Local Government at the launch of GBM for GraffitiSTOP

GBM for GraffitiSTOP is a great example of an Enterprise Mobility app servicing the community engagement area of local government.

Citizens download the system from the regular online app stores. It runs on the latest generation of mobile devices with wireless data and back-end IT systems.

Councils receive consistent map-located graffiti reports directly from the public, ready for instant dispatch to clean-up crews.

At Global GBM, we have been delivering map-enabled mobile data systems into local government for over a decade. We have discovered that local government operating environments place special demands on mobile systems design.

Council assets tend to be in parks and road reserves.

They are hard to locate by street address. Mobile maps and map-linked work instructions are essential.

Every council has wireless black spots so any app that needs constant internet connectivity won’t cut the mustard.

information technology

This is all about providing IT departments with a single reliable commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) solution that will satisfy the needs of all departments across Council.

The technology pieces are now in place. The business case for Enterprise Mobility is simple. Well-chronicled advantages include improvements in crew productivity, improvements in data quality and speedier work flow execution.

The remaining impediments to widespread adoption of Enterprise Mobility are more to do with old-fashioned thinking than business logic.

Today’s workforce is mobile-device savvy. Council IT systems are mature, so the opportunity for further automation inside the office is limited.

Councils are dominated by small work groups, each striving to get their job done with a minimal budget. Custom programming services are usually out of the question.

Our success has been in providing a common worksmanagement framework that individual business groups can quickly tailor to their data and integration needs.

But wireless data and the new devices have opened up field services as the next frontier for Councils to improve customer service and manage their budget bottom line.

Ken Moule is Chief Technical Officer of Global GBM, an Australian company dedicated to delivering Enterprise Mobility solutions to local government.

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information technology

BYOD for local government workers As the boundaries of workplaces Australia-wide become more fluid, allowing employees the options of working from home, emailing from their daily commute, and networking via online communities, technologies must keep pace.

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ccording to the AMCA Communications Report 2012–13, during that year, Australia’s digital economy grew strongly, with adaptation to an internet-enabled world quickly embraced by the population. Furthermore, in the first half of 2013, the report revealed that 62 per cent of Australian adults used a minimum of five different communication devices.

There were 11.9 million smart phone users in Australia at May 2013, with the number of tablet users rising rapidly.

It stands to reason, then, that these technologies would creep into the facet of our lives on which we spend the most time – work.

BYOD stands for ‘bring your own device’, which is fairly self-explanatory, in that it means that employees of an council can bring tablets, smart phones, laptops and other mobile web-enabled devices into the work environment for use on the corporate network. Variations on this might see council purchasing a number of mobile devices for use by council employees, or staff using their own devices but having limited access to council systems. This flexibility of technologies allows employees to do their job to the best of their abilities, and facilitates better communication and mobility within the workplace.

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The potential of BYOD is great for local government, which has some catching up to do in this field. Private enterprise took up this mobility strategy fairly quickly, while government has lagged behind. It seems, though, that governments are beginning to be seduced by the mobility potential that this technology offers. So what does your council need to know?

information technology

When considering BYOD, it’s important to understand the potential benefits and drawbacks. On the positive side, cost efficiencies can arise from the council not having to outlay funds to provide devices to staff. Employees will perform their tasks on devices that are familiar to them, which has the potential to enhance their productivity, as well as their satisfaction – using a device of their own choosing allows staff to customise the device to ensure that its operation suits their work style. In addition, regular updates of software are more likely when employees have control over their own devices, rather than waiting for the customary three-year asset replacement cycle for local government organisations.

There are, however, some costs – and not just financial – that local governments must take into account when planning a BYOD-friendly workplace.

Shifting workplace boundaries necessitate reevaluated security measures to ensure that the network, and therefore classified data, does not become vulnerable to external attack. This requires two main considerations: monitoring the various devices being used to access council information, and controlling access across secure networks.

On top of this are costs for wi-fi infrastructure, ongoing IT support, telecommunications charges and software licensing.

When you’ve made the decision to incorporate BYOD into the council’s work strategy, it’s essential to know exactly how you want the system to work. First, do your research. Know what you require of BYOD, look at different models, try to separate the hype surrounding this buzz term from the actual practical application within your council, and then select the option that will work best for your employees and your council. For example, will BYOD be introduced to the entire local government staff, or will it be selectively used in areas that will derive the most benefit? Will it replace existing communications infrastructure, or will it be added on top of that which council already uses?

A BYOD policy is essential when implementing BYOD practice in the workplace, as it outlines to staff what they will and will not be able to do on their devices, and

will give a clear picture of what is considered personal use versus business use. The policy will inform staff of acceptable devices, systems that are accessible via their personal devices, acceptable usage of systems and resources on a BYOD device, what support they will receive from IT, how security of their personal information will be ensured, and what will happen in the event of loss of a device, or if the person leaves employment. The policy should make it clear to employees that the council has the right to monitor usage and access any data on a mobile device, and should outline policies for employee privacy with relation to their device.

Mobile device management (MDM) software is also a useful tool – if installed on all devices used for work activity, this software can give you an overview of the number of devices being used, as well as the types of activity being undertaken. You can filter URLs, and ensure that you minimise potential issues.

If a council follows all of the above steps in implementing BYOD into its operations, it is likely to find that the workplace mobility that BYOD affords is of great benefit to council staff and management.

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Open access to government data driving innovation Emergency management, geography education, safer driving and open source access to geographic information are all winners in the inaugural Data Vic Competition, established to encourage innovative citizen and business use of government data.

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he competition, supported by the Victorian Government and the Spatial Industries Business Association (SIBA), offered four prizes of $2500, and the opportunity to further develop the winning projects with mentorship by SIBA members.

Announcing the four winners at the Connect 2014 – Next Big Thing Summit, Minister for Technology Gordon Rich-Phillips said entrants were challenged to develop government-generated datasets to address business, environmental or community issues.

The winners are: • Groundtruth for ‘GIS on a stick’, which uses open source software to put Vicmap data in a selfcontained spatial database available as a USB flash drive, incorporating geographical features with tabular data in order to map, analyse and assess real-world problems • Geography Teachers Association Victoria for ‘United We Map’, which enables school children to actively learn from geographical data available through Data Vic using a free webData Vic based education resource • Emerg Solutions for ‘BART (Broadcast Alert Response Technology) App’, a mobile platform that provides key Data Vic information to emergency managers through a dedicated web portal

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• Geoplex for ‘Trip Risk’, which uses crash stats from VicRoads to highlight high-risk intersections and black spots for drivers in Victoria.

Mr Rich-Phillips said the four winning solutions were great examples of how the public and private sectors can work together to create both traditional and non-traditional applications from otherwise underutilised resources.

‘The Victorian Coalition Government has established the Data Vic Access Policy, which promotes the importance of sharing government data at no or minimal cost to users,’ Mr Rich-Phillips said.

‘The Policy provides greater public access to Victorian Government-generated or -owned data, and there are now around 1300 datasets available via data.vic.gov.au.

‘Providing open access to government data not only helps drive innovation and create new business opportunities, but will also enable the development of new products and services.’

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X • THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21 THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21 • 137

TechnologyOne OneCouncil

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THE SPATIAL INDUSTRY With the explosion of ‘big data’, the spatial industries are providing the critical link between information and place. Imagine a world where a smart phone app can tell you which roads are blocked by floodwaters so you can navigate your way home safely after a violent storm. That’s the sort of future you can expect from the digital marriage of big data and traditional mapping.

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ocation intelligence is at the heart of some of our most pressing problems: environmental degradation, climate change, crime and security, defence, social welfare, asset management, planning our cities, and managing and recovering from natural hazards and disasters.

Governments use location data to determine where and when their services are needed. Companies make loans and investments, build factories and offices, analyse risks and assign insurance rates according to location information.

Spatial information also meets many of our personal needs, arising from our increasing desire for mobility, while maintaining instant access to location information – from GPS navigation systems for our vehicles to the rapidly growing use of location-based devices for communication.

Image courtesy of SE Water

140 X • THE • THE AUSTRALIAN AUSTRALIAN LOCAL LOCAL GOVERNMENT GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK YEARBOOK EDITION EDITION 2121

Australia’s spatial industries provide the tools and methods to represent, analyse and resolve these important activities and demands of our modern society. These tools are crucial to the information age of the 21st century.

The latest economic study of the industry shows that it contributes in excess of $12.5 billion annually to Australia’s GDP, and that it delivers other significant financial and social benefits.

The spatial industries encompass companies that deliver a range of business services and products, such as remote sensing, surveying, mapping, geographic information systems software and services, GPS technologies and systems, and location intelligence systems and services, as well as data representation through 3D visualisation and infographics.

There is no doubt that Australia has been facing increasing challenges associated with extreme weather events, particularly with the frequency of such events expected to increase. The challenge for governments and the community is to develop and enhance capacity and ability to mitigate, respond to and recover from such events. With sound spatial data, appropriate visualisations can be prepared that convey clear messages to citizens.

Growth opportunities beckon early-adopting cities, nations and entrepreneurs in the spatial industries.

Realisation will demand bold new thinking and advocacy, public-private partnerships (PPPs) and micro-financing models, better cross-industry collaboration, and a deeprooted reassessment of our current legal, financial and political traditions.

SIBA, the leading association representing the spatial industries, has launched Project MIMOSA, which is the start of a big data conversation between the places we live, and offers a vision to move beyond the traditions of the past into the big data era and spatial city futures.

innovation + technology

PROJECT MIMOSA

S

IBA’s Project MIMOSA is responding to a particular point in time, a point when populations are rapidly increasing and urban spaces are rapidly expanding; where understanding and using all the associated information (known as spatial information) is now more vital and relevant than ever before.

So, what is Project MIMOSA? For many, it’s a concept that might be difficult to grasp, simply because it’s a big idea – a really big idea! Essentially, Project MIMOSA seeks to establish Australia and New Zealand as world leaders in the innovative application of spatial information; to connect various cities and places using a dynamic framework, which allows our collective knowledge and experiences of places to be shared. In short, Project MIMOSA is pioneering the ‘digital city’.

So, what is a digital city? Does it simply mean we now have smart phones and internet access? No. A digital city reflects the fact that cities are beginning to surpass nations, in terms of their significance, relevance and recognition. A digital city reflects how we interact with information and place (and how we share this material), which has changed radically in recent times.

A digital city reflects our understanding of the built environment and its relationship with nature, which determines the cities we live in and how technology is shaping the way we design our cities. Not only does the digital city reflect our world today, it also draws valuable information from the past and helps represent what our future will look like. With this in mind, it is

vital that a focused platform for dialogue (and sharing of information) between cities is established. This is Project MIMOSA’s purpose.

The intention is that this shared information will permeate or influence every aspect of a city, whether that is in regard to advances in building information technologies that lead to developing better, smarter and more environmentally sustainable buildings, or whether it influences urban planning and policy decisions, among many other things.

However, to realise these benefits, it is imperative to change the way we incentivise organisations and individuals to collect and use this spatial information.

For a start, it must be easy and attractive for them to access the information, to play with it and to experiment.

A more entrepreneurial use of spatial information must be encouraged. Cities are vastly complex and the challenges are daunting, so it is crucial to encourage a culture of collaboration between our cities – to share our successes, as well as our hurdles, through a common innovative and enterprising delivery infrastructure.

Through Project Mimosa, SIBA is engaging communities in a Spatial Data Ecosystem, and inspiring new thinking around policy, technology, research and digital content to build better places and a deeper understanding of our world. Please contact us for further information at info@spatialbusiness.org or phone: 1300 733 784.

THETHE AUSTRALIAN AUSTRALIAN LOCAL LOCAL GOVERNMENT GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK YEARBOOK EDITION EDITION 21 21 • 141 •Y

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innovation + technology

SPATIAL DATA ECOLOGY Platform

Representation

The platform is the underpinning-enabling infrastructure for the delivery of tools, services and operations of spatial data. Virtual platform examples include cloud hosting, GPS and mobile networks etc. Physical platform examples include satellites, aircraft, UAV/drones and devices such as sensors, cameras, and smart phones.

Government organisations are typically awash with unstructured data – much of it inaccessible and disassociated. We can more meaningfully represent and share information if we spatially index it. Representation is the structuring and making sense of data in order to find ways to express the complexity of our real world with digital media.

Tools These are the instruments, programs or apps designed to facilitate and curate the spatial data ecology. Examples include computer-aided design (CAD), geospatial information systems (GIS), games engines, and augmented reality.

Services Stakeholders play different roles in providing services that contribute to the spatial data ecology. Surveyors capture and certify data about the present; architects, planners and urban designers envision futures for places.

Operations Emergency, utility, facility and city management are all examples of operations that embrace the full lifecycle of the spatial data ecosystem. Emergency management preparedness feeds directly into a cycle of response, recovery and mitigation.

Capture This is the capture of data from people, sensors and records, including photogrammetry, field surveying, photography, and cartographic digitisation and scanning.

In addition, technological developments now offer sensors, crowdsourcing, hyperspectral and LiDAR, which produce rich data sets at ever increasing frequency.

Design/author This is the value building process, in which tools such as CAD and GIS are used to create meaningful models of the data. These models may be generated using the captured data to represent places in the past and present (for example, surveyors), or inspired by new ideas of the future (for example, architects).

Simulation Given that our physical world reality is essentially dynamic and complexly interrelated, there is an increasing trend towards feeding unified digital representations of places with live-captured data, and simulating scenarios with near real-time performances (for example, traffic movement).

Extrapolation Extrapolation is the synthesis of new knowledge acquired from evidential models and other systems inputs. This assists in discovering patterns in the knowledge, and enabling sharing of data in new contexts.

Visualisation Visualisation enables our minds to comprehend data: for example, infographics, animation, 3D-printed models, soundscapes, augmented reality, timelines etc. The mode of visualisation will be largely determined by the activity at hand and the experience of the user.

Sharing Sharing encompasses discovery and storytelling. The stories can trigger deep personal meaning from the visualisations, and inspire communities and individuals to demand more evidence about places, innovative ideas and completeness of knowledge, in order to further improve our decision-making processes.

THEAUSTRALIAN AUSTRALIANLOCAL LOCALGOVERNMENT GOVERNMENTYEARBOOK YEARBOOKEDITION EDITION21 21••143 AA THE

geospatial data

The earth in space

The title of this article is a nod to the literal meaning of ‘geospatial’, which is quickly becoming a buzz word in local government – ‘geo’ meaning earth, and ‘spatial’ pertaining to the location of things in space: position and coordinates. Geospatial data and technologies are increasingly being used globally, in order to gather information about the world around us – both our natural and built environments.

G

oogle Maps is a great example of a geospatial data tool. Not only can you drop a pin a location on the map; you can also then search the surrounding area for certain business types or geographical features, as well as viewing photographs of these locales that have been pinned to the location by users of the map. These points of information are geospatial data.

government, location is inherent in all data; people have residences; properties have boundaries; assets have proximities; and employees have worksites. Over 80 per cent of all data stored by a local government contains a location component. By visualising and exploring the relationships within this data, and using the resulting discoveries to guide decision-making, you are effectively leveraging ‘location intelligence’.

Geospatial data was initially used by natural resources managers in the 1960s, but its uses extend far beyond the limitations of one particular field. Today, geospatial data can be collected via ‘remote sensing’ – by aircraft or satellites – and is used to inform studies in demographics, environmental management, security, defence, science, social policy, industry, commerce, and – importantly for us – government.

The Australian National Data Service gives an example of how this data might be used: ‘You could overlay a map of health indicators with another map showing income or age distribution, and then perform all sorts of analyses within and between the map layers. The resulting product could be a location “disadvantage” map.’

Geospatial data is of great use to local governments, in order for them to observe, assess, map and address the changes or issues that their local areas face.

According to geographic information systems specialist Esri Australia, ‘When it comes to local

144 • THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21

A majority of councils around Australia are using geographic information systems (GIS), which are essentially advanced and interactive maps that allow users to layer sets of data over certain map points, to inform their decision-making. The layers of data allow for calculation and prediction of the phenomena occurring in

geospatial data

a certain locality, giving local government users a much more accurate picture of their regions, and allowing for the organisation of data to achieve investigative goals.

In August 2013, Esri Australia, in conjunction with the Surveying and Spatial Sciences Institute (SSSI), released its ‘GIS in Local Government Benchmark Study’, which analysed the results of a study carried out in February 2013 to determine the participation of local government in the growing rate of adoption of spatial technology. In his introduction to the report, Brett Brundock, Managing Director of Esri Australia, points out that ‘Collectively, Australia’s local governments represent the largest user of GIS data in the country. Local governments have traditionally been early adopters of GIS advancements – driving innovation in spatial technology deployments.’

The report goes on to explain how local government users of geospatial data and software can enhance their community service. Cassandra Barker, General Manager of MapData Services, says, ‘The multidimensional insight to be gained when councils use GIS technology to mash up their own data with these other information sources – such as property, natural hazard risk or crowdsourced datasets – is leading to real-time responses to resident concerns, improved community services, and internal workflow efficiencies.

‘We are now seeing groups such as Adelaide and Gold Coast City Councils release location-aware smart phone apps that enable rate payers to provide geotagged feedback – directly to their Councils’ customer service centres.

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THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21 • 145

geospatial data

‘Establishing this kind of 360-degree feedback channel is resonating with councils nationwide, with more than half the respondents in the Benchmark Study indicating it’s likely they’ll deploy these capabilities over the next two years.’

Large councils – including Australia’s largest, Brisbane City Council – are extending their use of GIS to manage their municipalities. Outside of Australia, the

Bundaberg Council In January 2014, just over a year since the 2013 Bundaberg flood, Bundaberg Regional Council revealed the critical role that cutting-edge mapping technology played in saving thousands of flood victims.

United Kingdom, the United States, Singapore, and many other developed nations are also realising the benefits of incorporating geospatial information into their councils’ operations.

Following are some examples of how councils are using GIS technology to keep their communities informed, and ensure that they remain cognisant of what their local areas need.

Mr Bowden said Council also used GIS technology to deliver critical emergency messages for those in trouble during the disaster.

‘We used GIS technology to define the boundaries of areas affected by the incident,’ Mr Bowden said.

When six tornados struck in and around Bundaberg in January 2013, Council turned to GIS technology to provide rescue teams with instant information for evacuations, rescues, food drops, and the ensuing clean-up.

‘These geographic locators then allowed Council to issue State Government Emergency Alerts to the residents of Winfield – on Baffle Creek – warning them of impending flooding.

Council’s GIS Delivery and Support Team Leader, Steven Bowden, said the technology was a crucial part of its operation to evacuate more than 6000 people from the areas of North and East Bundaberg.

‘The Emergency Alert system produced an automatic voice message to all identified landline telephone services, within the defined geographic area, notifying them of the approaching danger.’

‘Council has been working with Esri Australia in leveraging GIS technology across different business areas for the past five years,’ Mr Bowden said.

Andrew Highley, Esri Australia Business Manager, said that during the crisis, GIS technology was critical in identifying where community members needed help.

‘But it was when the floods hit in 2010 and 2013 that the technology truly delivered its greatest value by providing us with an up-to-date view of the situation as it was unfolding.

‘Council used the technology to map the locations of requests for assistance from the Disaster Coordination Centre Hotline,’ Mr Highley said.

‘In this way, GIS technology improved all of our tactical and operational decision-making, situational awareness, strategic planning, community engagement and rescue efforts.

‘It was crucial for us at Council, as well as for other organisations such as the Australian Defence Force (ADF), The Salvation Army and The Red Cross.

‘It also enabled us to receive information from other organisations, particularly Rapid Damage Assessment (RDA) data from the Queensland Fire and Emergency Services (QFES).’

146 • THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21

‘Councils could then locate where community members were and what assistance they required – such as whether they were trapped by the flood or if they had no access to food.

‘Response agencies such as State Emergency Services, QFES, Queensland Police Service, Queensland Ambulance Service, and helicopter assets could then be dispatched to respond to the situation.

‘Comprehensive maps for the ADF were also generated to find suitable landing sites for food drops, as well as maps of exclusion zones, traffic management plans, critical infrastructure, mud army marshalling and route maps.’

geospatial data

Alpine Shire Council Alpine Shire Council’s BAL Plan iPad application topped the Spatial Enablement category at the prestigious Asia Pacific Spatial Excellence Awards in April this year.

The app is used by Council to assess the slope of the land, surrounding vegetation and defendable space available to determine the Bushfire Attack Level of a property, and the most defendable site on which to build.

Council’s Manager Development Services and Amenity Nick Vlahandreas, and Business Intelligence Officer Barrett Higman, designed the app in partnership with application developers Book & Black Pty Ltd. Mayor Peter Roper said the BAL Plan app was an innovative way to address bushfire management and safety in planning.

‘Congratulations to everyone involved in developing this app – it’s a truly unique approach to an essential issue,’ he said.

‘Using this app, staff can quickly help landowners to establish the best site to build their home to give them the best possible chance of fighting bushfire attack and minimising the risk to life.

‘In our climate and landscape, the capacity to take something crucial like a BAL and use technology to cut down the time and resources it takes to establish one, not only saves time and money but also makes our communities safer.’

The application was developed with funding from the Department of Transport, Planning and Local Infrastructure.

Queensland’s local government areas In March, the annual land valuations for properties in Queensland’s local government areas were released, and Valuer-General Neil Bray credited the increased amount of information available for valuation purposes to spatial technology.

‘The Land Valuations Globe through the Queensland Globe on Google Earth will give landowners unprecedented access to information including the

spatial representation of the valuation, valuation dates, the ability to search by property identification number and a real property description, and all on a satellite imagery background that allows users to zoom in right down to property level,’ Bray said.

‘This is a first for Queensland, and landowners can take advantage by accessing Queensland Globe on the Department of Natural Resources and Mines website www.dnrm.qld.gov.au/mapping-data/queensland-globe.’

Wyndham City Council Wyndham City’s FieldInspect iPad app won the 2013 Local Government Award for Asset and Financial Management.

The smart phone and tablet application allows maintenance staff to inspect and report faults with local roads, footpaths, street signs and street furniture.

Chaffey Ward Councillor Shane Bourke said, ‘The app allows Council staff to more efficiently record details of each inspection they conduct as they move around the municipality.

‘FieldInspect uses GPS technology, aerial photography and easy navigation of maps by swiping to scroll across or pinching the screen to zoom in on a particular location, which is faster and greatly improves productivity.

‘The user finds the road, footpath or other asset they are inspecting in the app, either via the navigation or built-in location services, and records the details directly.

‘These details are added to automatically generated information about the asset, such as the nearest property and depot zone, which assists with any required maintenance works.

‘Council staff can also access live inspections and work together – even if they are at different locations.

‘The app also allows for offline inspections, so mobile dropouts have no impact, allowing for seamless use and no downtime.’

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corporate profile

THE NATIONAL BROADBAND NETWORK – AN UPDATE Fibre to the premises will generally continue to be deployed in new development housing estates and wherever the existing copper network has to be replaced.

NBN Co will proceed with its existing satellite and fixed wireless networks serving regional and remote premises, subject to a review of the rollout in line with new government policy.

Current progress of the NBN Work on the NBN is continuing while NBN Co transitions to the new best-fit technology approach. The government has set very clear expectations that this transition should avoid disruption for consumers and minimise the impact on the construction industry.

The National Broadband Network (NBN) is an upgrade to Australia’s existing telecommunications network. It’s designed to provide Australians with access to fast, affordable and reliable internet and landline phone services.

In locations where NBN fibre is available, most existing landline phone services, ADSL internet and Telstra cable internet networks will be disconnected and replaced with the NBN1. So to keep using their landline phone and internet services, residents and business owners will need to move them to run over the NBN before disconnection.

For more information on disconnection, please visit nbnco.com.au/switch.

How can I find out when the NBN comes to my area?

Go to www.nbnco.com.au and search the interactive map for your address, suburb or postcode to see when the NBN is coming to your area.

W

ith the recent change of federal government, there has been a change of policy for the NBN. The new policy means that NBN Co will use a wider range of technologies to provide access to fast, affordable and reliable internet and landline phone services as quickly and as cost-effectively as possible.

How will it work? What technologies will be used?

NBN Co plans to upgrade the current telecommunications network in the most cost-efficient way, using bestfit technology and taking into consideration existing infrastructure. This will vary from place to place and will include technologies such as fibre to the node (FTTN), fibre to the premises (FTTP), fixed wireless and satellite. Other technologies may also be considered.

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1 Services not replaced by the NBN include some TransACT, OptiComm, some Telstra Velocity services and others. For a full list please visit www.nbnco.com.au/switchoff or call us on 1800 687 626.

Optus cable internet services may be switched off on a different date and existing customers will be advised separately.

corporate profile

In October 2013, the format of the rollout maps was updated to provide clarity around those areas where the physical building of the NBN (a) has started or (b) is about to start, or (c) where end users can already order services over the NBN. NBN Co intends to update the maps when further areas enter the building stage, and the shape of the rollout becomes clearer.

How can I prepare my council for the NBN? NBN Co is committed to working closely with local government on the design and deployment of the NBN in their area, to help ensure a lasting positive legacy for the local community. The following checklist provides a guide for local councils as to the information NBN Co and its contractors/agents may need to assist in the NBN planning process: • zoning and overlay maps in a GIS format are preferred • location of environmentally significant or heritage areas that may not be in the zoning and overlay maps: for example, conservation/protected areas, national parks/ nature reserves, wetlands, bushland and significant street trees • any specific local planning controls or restrictions, policies or codes that may apply specifically to telecommunication facilities • confirmation of any local exemptions, restrictions or prohibitions for telecommunication facilities • development application requirements (if necessary), including likely time frames, processes et cetera • location of Commonwealth land and education, health or government facilities

• location of major development proposals and areas (for example, greenfield sites), major infrastructure locations or areas that require major upgrades to infrastructure, and information on whether there is any opportunity for co-development and co-investment with NBN works • identify and provide address details for property owners to inform them of the proposed installation of NBN equipment to their land/property, including tenanted properties • location of any council-owned ducts that NBN Co may be able to share.

Councils may also be keen to work with NBN Co and its contractors/agents to enter agreements to rent facilities that could be used during the rollout, such as depots, warehouses, temporary site offices, shopfront information offices etc. In that case, councils could provide some indication of properties that might be useful for the above purposes.

There may also be some synergies between NBN Co’s planned rollout and other construction projects across the country. NBN Co is interested in identifying projects that present opportunities for joint deployment of conduits and pits with other construction projects through the Co-Development program.

For more information, visit www.nbnco.com.au/codevelopment For further NBN-related enquiries, call NBN Co on 1800 OUR NBN (1800 867 626) or visit www.nbnco.com.au Images courtesy of NBN Co Copyright © 2014 NBN Co Limited

AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION •Y THETHE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21 21 • 149

geospatial data

INNOVATIVE TOOLS TO HELP VISUALISE YOUR COMMUNITY

Using LiDAR, a landscape is scanned in three dimensions and converted to 25 centimetre contours combined with high-resolution photography.

A

TGIS works with councils to identify priority areas for visualisation. Third parties are engaged for data collection; for example, an aerial survey could gather both high resolution imagery and detailed topography. The resulting data can be combined for mapping and analysis, providing useful visualisation for a number of areas, including:

emergency radio network. Custom visualisation software identified gaps in the service and saved hundreds of thousands of dollars by avoiding infrastructure duplication.

Customer service and community engagement By adding mapping layers to customer service software, your front-line team can obtain detailed information on: • rubbish collection routes and dates

Asset management and insurance claims A visual record of council infrastructure is critical for establishing baseline data for your community. When a destructive event such as a fire or storm occurs, any damage can be compared with this baseline imagery.

Councils that cannot substantiate their insurance claims have had delayed or rejected claims – often worth many millions of dollars.

Community disaster planning Visualisation is not just for the physical environment. ATGIS worked with Tablelands Regional Council to map their

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• animals registered at a premises • ground contours – for water flow and slope queries • project scheduling for asset maintenance (e.g. roads) • sewage and potable water network locations • town planning zones and overlays.

Giving front-line staff the capacity to answer public queries without referring to specialist staff improves efficiency, confidence and satisfaction. A website portal extends this online. The Tablelands Regional Council portal (maps.trc.qld.gov.au) includes information on zoning, waste collection and bridge load limits.

health + safety

STOP! ASK YOURSELF, ‘ARE YOUR WHS MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS REALLY WORKING?’

O

rganisations spend considerable time, money and resources on implementing work health and safety management systems (WHSMS), and yours is probably one of them. There must be good reasons for all of this effort.

The most likely choices include: • a genuine concern for the health and wellbeing of at-risk workers • to comply with the law • to meet customer requirements and/or to protect business interests.

Regardless of the reasons that a WHSMS is established, the real goal should be to make the workplace safer for everyone who is involved with, or affected by, the organisation’s operations.

There are any number of different takes on how to implement a WHSMS, and there is even some research that indicates that these are working. Safe Work Australia has published fact sheets on five strategic industry sectors, and the overall incidence of serious injury has reduced by 30 per cent in the 11 years since 2000. This might be a cause for celebration, except that we really can’t be certain that our management systems are actually the cause of this improvement.

Effective WHS management systems don’t just happen Workplace incidents can only be prevented if the hazards associated with an activity are identified in advance and appropriate control measures are implemented.

In essence, the application of a WHSMS within an organisation involves the ‘formalisation’ of processes through agreed and documented methods detailing what is to be done, how it is to be done and who is responsible for doing it.

circumstances, the potential elimination of the task – or substitution by a less hazardous process – is seldom considered. For a person to be injured in the workplace is tragic. For a person to be injured when the task itself was unnecessary is unforgivable.

Formal documentation and continuous improvement To risk stating the obvious, the cost of work-related injuries or illnesses, in human terms, is unacceptable. The pursuit of continuous improvement in safety performance must therefore be a critical component of any WHSMS. However, locking your WHSMS into the philosophy that ‘if a little is good, then more must be better’ could prevent your organisation from achieving real improvement.

The great shame is that organisations fail to learn from their own histories. Incident reports and, even more commonly, audit reports don’t trigger incident investigations. Investigations don’t produce recommendations at the higher levels of the hierarchy of control. None of this information flows back into the highlevel risk register, so that no actions are to be taken to prevent known risks from recurring.

The extent and nature of documentation for many WHSMSs are defined in contractual obligations, corporate standards and industry codes of practice. Under such circumstances, the ‘drivers’ for documentation typically relate to established control measures and not to the development of managed processes that support innovation and creativity.

Documentation is an inseparable component of an effective WHSMS. Workable WHSMSs rely on informed, improvement-focused, integrated documentation to truly assist management and workers and therefore prevent harm.

Arguably, no. It’s the implementation that counts – a documented risk assessment that has been:

SAI Global supports effective WHSMS documentation processes, providing training on the theory and practice of WHSMS to help safety professionals and other managers understand that:

• developed by informed and competent people

• WHSMS paperwork is important – but is not an end in itself

• developed in consultation with stakeholders

• documentation must encourage innovation within a riskcontrol framework

Do documented risk assessments prevent harm?

• understood by the workers who need to use it • accepted by those workers, who are furthermore ready, willing and able to apply its requirements.

Unfortunately, it often occurs that the main purpose of the risk assessment is to simply complete the paperwork.

In many instances, risk assessments are only done to ‘enable’ a job to be undertaken. Under these

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• documented risk assessments must focus on all hazards – and their interaction – that can contribute to harm.

Visit www.saiglobal.com/courses for more information. To speak to a consultant for public, online or in-house training, call 1300 727 444 or email training@saiglobal.com.

Author: SAI Global, Training & Improvement Solutions.

New WHS Training Courses!

Enquire now 1300 727 444

“This is without a doubt the best course I have attended in my time.

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”

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SAI GLOBAL is Australia’s leading provider of Work Health & Safety (WHS) management systems training. Our qualifications such as the BSB60612 Advanced Diploma of WHS & BSB51607 Diploma of Quality Auditing are nationally recognised and can help to accelerate your career, and create health and safety management systems that are best-practice.

“The facilitator was absolutely fantastic.

His knowledge and expertise in the Health & Safety realm, by far extended any other Subject Matter Expert I have encountered.

His ability to engage the classroom, maintaining focus & interaction during the training was uncanny. Top class!

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www.saiglobal.com/ohs

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health + safety

Is your workplace safe?

A guide to OH&S in local government.

L

ocal government is held accountable for the various tasks and responsibilities undertaken by council workers, and one of the most important questions a council can ask itself is: are our employees safe?

Office workers, maintenance staff, construction workers – there are many professionals who undertake different tasks for councils, making the industry susceptible to hazards and risks in different settings. It is therefore imperative that safe work best practice is followed at all times, at all work sites, and at all levels.

The first step in achieving safe work is hazard identification.

What is hazard identification?

The word ‘hazard’ refers to a situation or an item that has the potential to harm a person. In regards to local government, hazards range from a moving forklift (for maintenance and construction workers), through to chemicals, repetitive daily jobs and tasks, and bullying in the workplace.

Hazards typically arise from the following: • physical work • equipment, material and substance uses (this could be as simple as cleaning the bathrooms in the office) • work tasks and how they are performed (for example, lifting heavy boxes, or even reaching for something on a high shelf) • work design and management.

Council must therefore analyse its work environment at all levels, and locate areas in which the potential of harm to its workers exists, in order to prevent injuries to staff.

Regular inspections of the workplace (including offsite) are key in hazard identification, as this interaction with both the site and the workers allows council management to not only observe potential hazards and harm; but also to observe how workers conduct their tasks, and whether any employee behaviour is adding to the risk of harm.

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However, to properly identify as well as combat hazards in the workplace, councils should conduct a risk assessment.

Risk assessment A risk assessment involves Council evaluating what could happen if one of its workers were exposed to a hazard, as well as the likelihood of this occurring. All hazards have the potential to cause harm; however, depending on the hazard, this harm can range from minor discomfort to serious injury, or, in some extreme cases, death.

Conducting a risk assessment will help councils determine: • the severity of the risk • whether any control measures exist and, if so, how effective they are • the action that should be taken to control the risk • how urgently this action should be undertaken.

A risk assessment can be as simple as a discussion with employees on their day-to-day tasks and experiences on site, or could involve a more detailed and thorough assessment involving specific analysis tools and techniques that have been recommended by a safety professional.

When is the right time to conduct a risk assessment? A risk assessment should be done when: • there is uncertainty about how a hazard may result in injury • the work activity involves various hazards while a lack of understanding about how the hazards may interact is present • changes have been made to the workplace and subsequently to hazard control measures.

health + safety

Why choosing green products for your buildings makes good sense for health

By Mary Dunne, Business Development Manager, ECO-Buy Limited Green buildings are designed to be energy- and water-efficient, which means they are cheaper to operate and will generate fewer carbon emissions than their less green counterparts. With sustainability concerns central to many residential, commercial and council buildings, future costs of operation are going to become increasingly important factors when prospective tenants are making leasing decisions.

I

n November 2010, the Commercial Buildings Disclosure (CBD) program came into effect Australiawide, requiring most sellers or lessors of office space of 2000 square metres and over to obtain and disclose an up-to-date energy efficiency rating.

Of course, operating costs are only part of the picture. Indoor environment quality (IEQ) has been shown by numerous studies to be a major factor in increasing employee satisfaction, reducing employee absenteeism and improving productivity. This is particularly important in the case of office, retail and healthcare workers who, according to the Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD), spend up to 90 per cent of their time indoors.

IEQ is influenced by lighting, temperature, ventilation and the presence of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which are typically found in building materials, flooring, paints and varnishes, furniture, office equipment and cleaning products. VOCs are emitted as gases from certain solids or liquids, and include a variety of chemicals, some of which have short- and longterm adverse health effects. Concentrations of many VOCs are consistently higher indoors (up to 10 times higher) than outdoors. The health effects include eye irritation, respiratory problems, headaches, nausea, skin problems, fatigue, and damage to the kidney, liver or central nervous system. Some VOCs are also known or suspected carcinogens.

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health + safety

In the case of fit-outs or retrofits, there is more scope to influence the choice of materials and appliances, with the ‘best practice’ standard being the Green Building Council of Australia’s (GBCA’s) Green Star ratings (www.gbca.org.au). The Green Star Office Interiors rating tool scores a range of categories, including emissions, energy, materials, water use and iEQ.

Upgrading fluorescent lighting to T5 fluorescent lighting

Choosing green products for fit-out or retrofitting, as well as normal operations and maintenance, can be a challenge. Here is our guide on what to look for.

T5 tubes, which also use more electronic controllers (ballasts), are more efficient than traditional T8 tubes and copper ballasts. T5 tubes are shorter than T8 tubes, but conversion kits enable T5 lights to be used in existing T8 fittings. The kits incorporate the electronic ballast and, being easy to fit, can be a cost-effective solution for smaller fit-outs where budgets are constrained. For a refurbishment, new T5 lighting is a better option.

Lighting

Heating and cooling

Green lighting uses less energy than existing lighting options, and where possible contains fewer toxic substances. This generally means:

Natural forms of cooling, combined with good building design, are increasingly able to maintain building comfort comparable to artificial methods. The GBCA has developed comprehensive guidelines and rating tools for commercial buildings, which have resulted in the construction of some excellent sustainable buildings. For existing sites, there are a number of things you can do that will not only improve the comfort of users, but also reduce environmental impact and save you money over the longer term.

• high-efficiency fluorescent lighting (T5) • LED technology • compact fluorescent lighting.

Fortunately for council building managers, energyefficient lighting is one area in which the economic incentives are strong and payback times relatively short.

By switching to more efficient lighting, you will also save energy on air conditioning. As well as product alternatives, consider the scope for de-lamping in areas that may be over-lit. Other actions can include fitting motion sensors where people tend to leave lights on.

Replacing halogen downlights Halogen downlights are energy-hungry. There are a range of replacement options, some of which do not require alteration to the existing ceiling cut-out.

Replacement options typically consume 15 watts per fitting, and replace a halogen fitting consuming 50 watts.

The options are: • compact fluorescent conversion – small fitting with similar light output to a 50-watt halogen fitting • LED conversion – LEDs provide high light output, long life, low heat output and low toxicity (no mercury); and while they can be expensive, technological advances are driving the price down, and LEDs are becoming a common and viable replacement for halogen downlights.

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Insulation Ensure that the building has the highest practical level of insulation. Recycled content or environmentally certified insulation is available for different applications.

The greenest insulation is made from recycled materials.

Options include: • blanket type: recycled polyester, recycled glass, recycled wool • loose cellulose fibre insulation made from recycled paper.

The performance and quality of these products is in line with products made from virgin materials.

Only buy insulation with an R rating (measure of the insulating value), which meets the Australian/New Zealand Standard AS/NZS 4859.1 – Materials for the thermal insulation of buildings.

health + safety

Reflective paint

Appliances and office equipment

Reflective paint (not technically insulation) contains special particles that cool a building by reflecting the sun’s heat better than the standard roof. These coatings have been shown to reduce air-conditioning loads in buildings over summer, helping to save energy costs.

Energy-efficient appliances (such as dishwashers, refrigerators or washing machines) may sometimes cost more up-front, but the total cost of ownership, including running costs, will generally work out to be lower. Any appliance classified as domestic is required to carry labels rating energy and water use; the higher the star rating, the better. Commercial appliances are covered

by MEPS.

Air conditioners New regulations covering energy performance and labelling for air-conditioning units came into force in April 2010. Most units imported or manufactured after this date must comply with the new standards (Minimum Energy Performance Standards – MEPS).

Paints In addition to VOCs, other hazardous chemicals in paints can include chromates used for pigment and formaldehyde. The Good Environmental Choice (GECA) label (www.geca.org.au), Green Tag (www.ecospecifier.com.au) and the Green Star rating program have standards on VOC content in indoor paint.

Flooring

Data centres are responsible for more than onethird of Australia’s ICT footprint, due to energy used for cooling as well as normal operations. A 2010 study showed that stand-by power is responsible for almost 20 per cent of ICT energy consumption. Power management systems can be very effective tools in reducing energy wastage.

When selecting new computers, EPEAT is the global standard for greener electronics. EPEAT uses a wholeof-life approach, and registered products use less toxic materials, less energy and are easier to recycle. For details visit www.epeat.net.

Flooring can contain high levels of VOCs. If choosing carpet or any other flooring, look for GECA-certified, Carpet Institute of Australia Environmental Certification Scheme (preferably level 2 or higher), recycled content, low-VOC tested, or Green Tag certified.

Water-saving devices

Furniture

Waterless urinals need correct maintenance and cleaning to avoid any problems with odour control.

The materials and adhesives used in furniture can contain high levels of VOCs and other substances of concern. Some furniture may also contain halogenated flame retardant, which was named as the Worst Chemical of the Year in the United States’ 2011 Toxie Awards. Green furniture is made to meet environmental standards, including less-toxic raw materials, using recycled materials, and ensuring that renewable materials are from a certified source. Look for furniture that meets GECA or Green Star requirements. Green furniture may also have other advantages over its life span, including the ability to be recovered and eventually recycled. This can save waste management costs compared to conventional furniture.

There is a link between energy use and water use, so by saving water, you will also reduce energy bills. Choose the most efficient hot water system, and fit flow-control devices to taps and any showers.

Cleaning Petrochemical-based cleaning and maintenance products, such as bleach, disinfectants, antibacterials, deodorisers, pesticides and carpet cleaning chemicals have been shown to cause significant health problems.

Studies show that cleaning staff suffer higher-thanaverage rates of illness. Ways to avoid these pollutants include minimising carpeted areas requiring cleaning; steam cleaning without chemical deodorisers; and by using plant-based cleaning solutions, and microfibre cloths and mops, which reduce the need for chemicals.

An easy way to ensure that you are buying green cleaning products is to go for a recognised eco-label.

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health + safety

Trusted eco-labels for cleaning products in Australia include: • Good Environmental Choice Australia (GECA) – www.geca.org.au • Green Seal (which is a United States-based standard) – www.greenseal.org.

Suppliers can promote self-declared environmental claims, in particular, biodegradability, but be sure to ask how these claims are verified. Also, check that claims cover all the attributes of a green cleaning product, not just a single attribute.

In bathrooms where there is high traffic, hand-drying alternatives such as fast air dryers are an option. The best models use significantly less energy than warm air dryers and are more hygienic.

Behaviour change It can be hard to change habits (such as leaving computers and lights on), so communicating your organisation’s green actions and the outcomes to staff is key. Think about setting up a ‘green team’ from across your organisation to come up with ideas, and create a section on your intranet to keep everyone up to date with the latest news.

Bathroom tissue Green bathroom tissue is either made using recycled paper (recycled content), or carries either PEFC or FSC certification (with conditions; see below).

Bathroom tissue made from non-wood sources, such as sugar cane waste and bamboo, can also be green, but as these products rarely carry certification, it’s hard to be sure whether what you are getting is really sustainable.

Recycled content Buying recycled content is a simple way to ensure that your paper choices are not contributing to deforestation/ habitat destruction. This is an important advantage over virgin fibre paper. Also, being made from waste office paper, it does not need to go through a bleaching process like virgin paper does.

Sustainable forestry schemes If you cannot source recycled-content bathroom tissue, the alternative is paper that is certified as being from either of the following forest management schemes: • FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) • PEFC (Program for the Endorsement of Forest Certifications), which in Australia is known as the Australian Forestry Standard (AFS).

When buying certified paper, ensure that it is 100 per cent certified and not from mixed sources. Both the FSC and PEFC have mixed sources labels, which allow trees from sources that only meet lower standards of sustainability. Avoid paper that does not carry these certifications, regardless of the claims made by the supplier.

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About ECO-Buy ECO-Buy Limited is a not-for-profit Centre of Excellence in Environmental Purchasing, established to encourage the procurement of environmentally preferable (green) products and services.

Green procurement is based on the simple premise that every purchase impacts on the environment in some way, and is about choosing to buy products and services that are less damaging to our environment and human health than competing products and services that serve the same purpose.

With 13 years of award-winning experience delivering practical programs, ECO-Buy’s objective is to increase the demand for, and use of, environmentally preferable products and services. ECO-Buy provides independent advice and expertise to governments and businesses on how to embed sustainability into procurement.

LITTERSMART: LEAD BY EXAMPLE Keeping Australia beautiful is part of our culture but litter needs a clear point of disposal. Make a statement with these smart designs and give litter the flick.

• Fun colours and shapes to attract attention but disguise the function • Easy to clean, hygienic products built from our superior moulded materials • Make recycling easy and clear with purpose identified and divided bins • Promote a clean environment with our extensive range of litterbins to suit any decor You save time and money when you help people manage their own litter with organised style.

BUY LOCAL, AUSTRALIAN MADE For 25 Years, The Container Connection has produced locally made and manufactured products, reducing carbon miles and keeping the profits onshore. This means shorter lead times and higher quality from our safe, controlled factory.

• Access and inspect the product • Shorter lead times • High and low volume orders available • On-time delivery • Additional parts are easily accessible • Professional sales and support • Australian owned and operated

ENVIRONMENTALLY RESPONSIBLE All of our litterbins can be manufactured in recycled material upon request. Our many clients are not only committed to recycling litter and waste, but are excited that we can offer manufacturing from recycled material.

National clients include: University Campuses, TAFE Colleges, Convention Centres, QANTAS Transit Lounges, Shopping Centres, Fuel outlets.

HIDE YOUR LITTER IN PLAIN SIGHT Our bold litterbins are designed to help people find them without drawing attention to the function.

Contact one of our experienced staff for advice on the number and location of litterbins best suited to your facility to reduce trash and promote ecology.

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P : 08 9309 2442 P : 04 939 6666

planters, litterbins + furniture

AWARD-WINNING SYSTEM A new benchmark in workplace communication

Our goal. To engage workers in the process of identifying and implementing procedures in a way that bridges communication gaps.

The opportunity to engage.

There is a growing understanding of the gap that exists between ‘work as imagined’ and ‘work as performed’ (Borys 2012).

With that understanding comes a mounting criticism of Safe Work Method Statements (SWMSs) which, in Australia, are mandated for high-risk activities. Critics argue that SWMSs are long and complicated documents that workers are often unfamiliar with, and that they bear little relation to what occurs on-site.

With the mountains of paperwork, there is the potential to misinterpret the written word. With multilingual workforces, this is an ever-increasing reality.

Enter CodeSafe CodeSafe recognises that workers’ understanding of, and engagement in, procedures being performed is considerably more important

than the quantity and content of safety documentation.

CodeSafe’s digital platform develops, stores and delivers visual communication messages to employees on demand via Quick Response (QR) Code technology.

CodeSafe has now been recognised as not just a piece of technology, but as a significant system that brings about cultural change through its implementation.

Our approach addresses many critical communication challenges. We understand that most workers learn by watching and hearing rather than by reading. We partner with organisations to: • • • • • •

communicate engaging messages improve safety culture target critical risks improve productivity create engagement rather than enforcement culture monitor and track engagement.

In adopting the CodeSafe system, many organisations have been able to improve productivity, workplace culture and safety behavior.

A year to...

CELEBRATE!

Australian Water Association: Water Industry Safety Excellence Award 2012

Australian Pipeline Industry Association: Safety Award 2013

International Pipe Line & Offshore Contractors Association : Health and Safety Award 2013 Water Industry Safety Excellence Award 2012

WorkSafe Victoria: Health and Safety Invention of the Year 2013

CodeSafeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s digital platform develops, stores and delivers visual communication messages to employees on demand via Quick Response (QR) Code technology. The CodeSafe System has now been recognised as not just a piece of technology, but as a significant system that brings about cultural change through its implementation.

And our clients have been rewarded for their vision in adopting the CodeSafe System early!

Thank you to all our industry partners for supporting CodeSafe as a system that can be used to transform safety culture.

equipment + machinery

WORKPLACE HEALTH AND SAFETY

H

ealth and safety in the workplace is an important consideration for both private enterprise and government organisations. Recent amendments to health and safety regulations aim to further reduce serious accidents and consequently improve productivity.

But are these reforms addressing this complex and multifaceted issue?

Evidence suggests the reforms are succeeding, with reductions in injuries over the past few years. According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, serious workplace injuries have declined by over 15 per cent since 2003; however, Safe Work Australia estimates that workplace injuries continue to affect Australia’s annual gross domestic product (GDP) by as much as $57.5 billion annually – or 5.9 per cent of our total economy.

So what else can we do to reduce workplace accidents?

One key component is obviously workplace safety training, but another largely ignored factor is the safety of the equipment being used by workers every day. While the use of personal protection equipment (PPE) such as reflective vests and protective eyewear has skyrocketed in recent years, the utilisation of tools that include safety features has been somewhat limited.

Many companies pride themselves on providing products with leadership in safety. Most would be familiar with the automotive industry and its initiatives to improve occupancy safety. The Australian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP) provides a safety ratings system for new cars marketed in Australia. The ANCAP rating has become a key consideration for Australian consumers when making a purchasing decision on a new vehicle. Automotive manufacturers pride themselves on achieving additional ANCAP ‘stars’, and their continued innovation has made today’s automobiles safer than ever.

One company that is heavily involved in the automotive industry, and specifically safety features, is German firm Bosch GMBH. Bosch is the leading producer of automotive components worldwide, and has been a key developer of features often taken for granted, such as anti-lock braking systems (ABS). Bosch is currently developing the next generation of safety features, such as collision avoidance and reversing control systems.

Another division of Bosch that has become a market leader in safety within its industry is its power tools and accessories division. One specific power tool the Bosch brand has become synonymous with is the angle grinder. Angle grinders are used to grind, shape and cut various metals, but they are also commonly used on applications such as the grinding and cutting of masonry surfaces. Due to their wide range of uses, angle grinders are used by most tradespeople

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quite commonly. While these tools are extremely versatile, they are extremely dangerous when used incorrectly.

Utilising its expertise in automotive technology, and specifically ABS, Bosch Power Tools developed the ‘kickback stop’ feature for its angle grinders. This industry-leading safety feature protects the user from the ‘kickback’ phenomenon.

Kickback occurs during cutting applications when the disc jams. The kickback stop is an electrical system that immediately cuts off the power to the machine when a jam is detected. This will significantly reduce the force transferred to the user and thus avoid any serious shoulder, elbow and wrist injuries. Additional features on the Bosch Safety Angle Grinder range include dead man switches, twist-proof and multiposition guards, restart protection and vibration control.

While safety features are extremely important, any angle grinder is useless without the cutting and grinding discs they are designed to function with. The Bosch heritage of producing quality angle grinders has recently seen a new addition, with the launch of an Australian-specific range of cutting and grinding discs. These quality Bosch products comply with and exceed all Australian and European quality and safety standards, which include speed and burst tests. Combined with the safety features on Bosch angle grinders, they ensure the highest levels of safety possible for end users.

The next time you purchase an angle grinder or cutting and grinding discs, ask yourself this question: do they meet the safety standards you desire?

BOSCH HAS SAFETY COVERED

Safety Angle Grinder Features Dead Man Switch a specifically designed switch, which shuts the grinder off once the switch/trigger is released.

Kickback Stop a safety feature similar to ABS,

detects if the tool is jammed and immediately switches the grinder off.

Restart Protection prevents the grinder from

restarting automatically after a power cut, the grinder will need to be switched on again to continue working.

Multi Position Locking Guard twist-proof

protective guard – quickly and easily adjustable and provides protection if the grinding disc shatters.

Spindle Lock and Constant Speed Electronics faster, simpler disc/tool change. Power booster for heavy loads – constant speed, even under load.

Vibration Control patented vibration damping system that reduces oscillations and vibrations.

> New comprehensive range covers most applications

> Easy to choose colour coded, application based packaging: Blue: Standard Metal Applications Black: Stainless Steel and Inox Green: Masonry Multi-colour: Multi-purpose > Bosch quality manufactured and tested to Australian Standard AS1788.1-1987 to European Standard EN 12413

> Sizes range from Sizes range from 125 mm (5”) – 230 mm (9”)

For further information please visit: www.bosch-pt.com.au

100 mm (4") ‒ 355 mm (14")

equipment + machinery

Mount Gambier Aquatic Centre biomass boiler The Mount Gambier Aquatic Centre was constructed by the Mount Gambier City Council in the 1980s as an outdoor pool facility for the local community. The Centre has three pools – an Olympic-sized pool, a toddler pool and a learner pool – for a total volume of 1.38 megalitres (including balance tanks).

The large pool is heated to 27–28 degrees Celsius, and the smaller learner pool is heated to between 30 and 32 degrees Celsius.

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he Centre is open seven days a week for six months of the year, from the start of October to the end of March.

From the very beginning of the facility, a biomass boiler heated the pool water via two heat exchangers whose combined capacity is 520 kilowatts. The original biomass boiler ran on fresh sawdust from a local timber mill. After 30 years of dedicated service, the original boiler had become unreliable and difficult to operate.

Replacement options were investigated and included a straight gas boiler, a combined solar hot water and gas option, and biomass boilers. All options were subjected to a triple bottom line assessment, which included analysing potential capital costs, operating costs, community benefits and costs, and environmental benefits and costs. The conclusion of this analysis was that while a biomass boiler would have a higher capital cost than a straight gas boiler, the running costs would be cheaper, which results in significantly reduced costs over a 10-year period. Purchasing biomass from the local forestry industry supports local jobs, as opposed

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to importing gas from outside the region. The trees from which the biomass is sourced are regrown, so the fuel source is essentially carbon-neutral, as opposed to gas, which is a fossil fuel that contributes to humaninfluenced global warming.

Following on from this analysis, a tender was released for the supply of a new biomass boiler for the Aquatic Centre.

650-kilowatt Binder boiler Living Energy was selected as the company to supply the new boiler. Their proposed solution was a boiler manufactured in Austria by Binder, rated by the manufacturer as having a theoretical maximum output of 650 kilowatts. This boiler is more technologically advanced than the original one at the Aquatic Centre, is more responsive to changes in heat demand (which are, in turn, influenced by the weather), and can be monitored and settings changed remotely over the internet.

The Binder boiler has automatic ash removal, significantly reducing the maintenance cost of the previous system, which had to have ash manually removed an average of three times per week. The boiler only produces heat, not electricity.

Feedstock The boiler runs on dry woodchip, with the ideal moisture content being between 20 and 30 per cent. The long-

The Binder boiler can be monitored remotely

term source of woodchip is pine (Pinus radiata) sourced from the local forestry industry. In the start-up phase, a variety of dry hardwood chip was tested with the new system. This was sourced from logs at a Council stockpile, resulting from trees that had been felled by maintenance activities of council staff.

The boiler ran well on this feedstock, but the feed system was regularly jammed by oversized pieces. The contractor that was used to chip the logs did not have a screen on its operation, meaning that Council staff had to manually screen the chips as they were being loaded into the bunker.

Mount Gambier Aquatic Centre

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This will not be an issue in the long term, as the source of pine woodchip uses a screen as part of its chipping operation.

Council has considered using untreated urban timber waste collected at its transfer station, and may conduct a trial in the future. Even if the trial were successful, this would only supplement the main source of feedstock.

Performance Running on dry woodchip, the boiler heats the water very efficiently and without any issues. It is able to raise the temperature of the water much quicker than the previous system, and from a pool-user’s perspective, customers have been happy.

Estimates to date indicate that the new boiler uses approximately the same amount of tonnes of feedstock as the old boiler. For the sake of convenience, it would have been preferred to maintain the existing feedstock supply chain, but with the variable daily heat load, and on–off controls on the heat exchanger pumps, the Binder needs to run on dry feedstock, which local timber mills are unable to provide. This has required tapping into the existing supply chain that feeds the local MDF mill.

Dry woodchip is more expensive per tonne than fresh sawdust, but it has a higher energy content, and the drier feedstock provides operational advantages compared to a wet fuel, such as better turndown, easier ignition, and less tars produced upon cool-down.

Feedstock costs are higher with the new system, but it is still much cheaper to run than a gas

Running on dry woodchip, the boiler heats the water very efficiently and without any issues. It is able to raise the temperature of the water much quicker than the previous system... system. The unit uses between five and 10 cubic metres of woodchips per day – the exact amount being influenced by the weather, with less woodchip being required at warmer times. It is anticipated that the unit will use approximately 2150 cubic metres (550 tonnes) of woodchip during the six months that the pool is open.

Payback period When comparing the biomass system to the most likely alternative – a straight gas boiler – the payback period is approximately four years. If natural gas prices do increase significantly within the next few years, as predicted1, then this period becomes even shorter.

Teething problems There have been some minor teething problems since the installation of the new system, with numerous solutions being as simple as changing settings.

Switching fuel from sawdust to woodchip caused some problems, though these related to the existing feed system and not the boiler.

Some of the sensors and alarms on the new boiler had to be adjusted to suit the local situation.

Advantages and disadvantages Advantages In this particular situation, a biomass system is much cheaper to run than a straight gas system.

Even though it has a higher capital cost, when the capital and operating costs are averaged out over 10 1 Core Energy Group Pty Ltd (February 2012), Price Pathways to 2020 – Gas and Electricity.

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years, the biomass system is still much more costeffective on an annualised basis than gas.

The use of woodchip from the local forestry industry supports local jobs. The skill set of local workers involved in the project is also expanded.

It is the most environmentally friendly of the options analysed, as it is carbon-neutral and uses a renewable energy supply.

Disadvantages The main disadvantage with this kind of biomass system is that it requires more human input than a straight gas system. With the latter system, the fuel is piped in and the system runs mostly automatically, requiring little human input. With a biomass system, the trees need to be harvested and chipped (which, in most situations, will be occurring regardless – woodchips that were going to be made anyway are simply purchased), the chip needs to be stored (unless it can be made on demand, but for smaller systems, this is unlikely to be cost-effective), and it needs to be delivered to the site. Even with these costs factored in, it is still cheaper to run than a gas system, and it is supporting local jobs.

Final reflections Biomass boilers are not common for this kind of application in Australia, but are very common in Europe and North America, and are becoming more common in New Zealand. Biomass systems can emerge as financially favourable when compared to gas systems – especially when gas prices are projected to significantly increase in 2015 for a variety of reasons, including the export of significant volumes of Australian gas to the international market2. Capital costs may be higher, but operating costs can be significantly lower, though this needs to be analysed for each particular situation.

One of the keys to making a bioenergy project financially viable is to use the heat. Some systems can create electricity, but the heat still generally needs to be used to make them viable.

2 Core Energy Group Pty Ltd (February 2012), Price Pathways to

However, these projects can be viable when they are only generating heat, and not electricity, which is the case with the Mount Gambier Aquatic Centre installation.

A level of energy independence can be achieved through securing a local source of energy (biomass feedstock), as opposed to importing fossil fuel energy from outside the region. The energy source is also renewable, carbon-neutral and environmentally friendly. It is important that a reliable long-term source of feedstock is secured for bioenergy projects to be viable.

Bioenergy projects support local jobs through the purchase of feedstock from local industry, rather than importing gas or electricity from outside the region. The skill set of local workers can also be improved. Local companies were used as part of the installation of the biomass boiler at the Mount Gambier Aquatic Centre, and were trained up on the job by staff from Living Energy.

Councils may wish to investigate using woody material that they collect directly or at their transfer stations, as a feedstock for a biomass unit. The Mount Gambier Aquatic Centre experience indicates that logs and branches that are left to dry for six to 12 months can be chipped and provide a good source of feedstock. It is essential that the resulting woodchip is within the ideal moisture content range, and also that it is screened to remove oversized pieces that can jam feed systems.

In theory, untreated urban timber waste could also be chipped and used, but this has not yet been tested at the Mount Gambier facility. In addition to screening, a magnet would also be required to remove nails, screws and other pieces of metal. Clear separation from treated timber, painted timber, and timber with other contaminants, such as plastics, would need to occur, as these should not be burned in a biomass system. Using these woody materials may not only save on feedstock costs for a biomass system, but may also provide a beneficial use for a waste stream.

On this last point, biomass projects can make beneficial use of a waste stream. A significant amount of biomass in a variety of forms routinely goes to waste throughout Australia. Much of this can be used beneficially, including for energy.

2020 – Gas and Electricity.

THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21 • 167

equipment + machinery

ALL YOUR POOL NEEDS COVERED

I

Cover under bench at Brunswick Baths 50-metre outdoor pool

an Coombes (Australia) Pty Ltd is Australia’s leading pool blankets and covers manufacturer, specialising in water retention and chemical integrity for both indoor and outdoor pools.

The company has 24 years of experience in providing aquatic solutions, having worked on projects with numerous councils Australia-wide, including recently with the City of Yarra and the City of Moreland (Victoria), as well as private enterprise. The company recognises the significant finances that local government invests in public pools.

Noting the costly nature of depreciation of these assets, Ian Coombes (Australia) Pty Ltd seeks to offer products that provide long-term financial savings to its customers.

Research conducted by the company has shown that pools, both indoor and outdoor, can lose up to 1000 litres of water per metre squared every year. This is through the combined impact of evaporation (60 per cent), radiation/ convection (30 per cent) and ground consumption (10 per cent).

Their technology, particularly through the MacBall Heat Saver Thermal Pool Blanket, reduces loss by up to 90 per cent by acting as insulation, retaining water mass, and reducing the need for frequent use of pool chemicals.

As part of the service, their pool blanket specialists will conduct an audit of your organisation’s pool/s and their environment, in order to determine the most efficient and practical means of delivering financial and environmental benefits to your council and ratepayers.

Ian Coombes (Australia) Pty Ltd products are the superior Australian and New Zealand choice for pool blankets and covers, as the company manufactures the technology – and is also readily available for service and repair.

Cover under bench at Fitzroy 50-metre outdoor pool

Recognising the importance of site safety and effective use of open space, the company has developed blanket cover reels, which are stored underneath, and as a part of, wooden or plastic benches. This seating/storage solution allows for covers to be operated independently of one another from a convenient position.

Ian Coombes (Australia) Pty Ltd also uses the innovative and portable ‘Poolie’s Pal’. This product is a heightadjustable, motorised winch, which automatically deploys and retrieves a 50-metre cover in less than three minutes, or less than two minutes for a 25-metre cover. This saves time and addresses the occupational health and safety concerns of manual covers. ‘Poolie’s Pal’ also includes a built-in battery charger, which reduces the need for expensive and inconvenient electrical wiring.

With an experienced team of designers, engineers and aquatic specialists, who have provided long-term solutions for local government pool-related assets, Ian Coombes (Australia) Pty Ltd can deliver a package tailored specifically to the needs of your organisation.

Cover under bench at Coburg 25-metre indoor pool

For further information, please feel free to visit the website, www.iancoombes.com.au or call 03 9543 6990.

We look forward to hearing from you!

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corporate profile

CUSTOM BOX CULVERTS DELIVER UNPRECEDENTED VALUE

T

he precast box culvert has been around for many years as a basic structure for drainage, bridge, and tunnel applications. But the traditional box culvert has taken on a new lease of life thanks to the engineering team at Humes.

A number of recent projects have called for solutions where standard box culvert design wasn’t viable due to other competing design elements. But Humes looked beyond the traditional design parameters and provided unique box culvert designs, which delivered significant value for their clients.

The following two case studies demonstrate how a unique culvert profile, and jacking large box culverts, changed the thinking around the value of collaborative engineering.

Tapered leg design for service duct The 6.8-kilometre CLEM7 Tunnel project across Brisbane River called for a precast concrete box culvert design for use as a service duct. The original design specified twometre-long, straight-leg culverts, which required corbels to be cast in situ into the tunnel liners – typically an expensive and time-consuming process. Units would also require an impressive 520 kilograms of steel per metre.

With extensive experience in precast concrete manufacture and design, Humes worked closely with Leighton Contractors and Baulderstone Bilfinger Berger Joint Venture (LBBJV) to provide an alternative, more economical culvert design, the result saving LBBJV approximately $5 million.

The new culvert introduced tapered crowns, sloping feet, and lifting recesses in order to enable faster installation (negating the need for corbels), while reducing the weight (by approximately 370 kilograms of steel per metre), and increasing the robustness and constructability of the final service tunnel design. These design changes provided significant product and installation savings for the contractor.

The contract saw Humes produce a total of 3737 culverts, including 515 specials. With a strict adherence to project guidelines and quality requirements, Humes was capable of meeting the project schedule by producing between eight and 16 culverts every day, with each unit measuring 2.4 metres in length with a mass of 10 tonnes.

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Box culverts jacked under rail line Custom box culverts again impressed during the construction of the new coal export terminal at Golding Point, Wiggins Island, Queensland. The project required the construction of an envelope under the existing rail line, a track that would carry fully laden coal trains, even during construction.

The original culvert design was not optimised for the project, so after a collaborative design effort between Aurecon, BMD, Worley Parsons, Tunnelcorp, and Humes, a revised design was agreed upon. Thirty-five culverts in total, measuring 7.75 metres in span, 4.56 metres in height and 1.5 metres in length, at a weight of 64.6 tonnes each, were specified, including: • a unit joint assembly (designed by Humes) • a lead jacking box • a dowel connection between units • a bentonite lubrication system • a sealed joint assembly to prevent ingress materials during the jacking process • a steel angle to box lower edges.

A precast concrete culvert of this size had never been manufactured, or jacked, in Australia before, so handling and transportation presented new challenges.

Consequently, Humes designed the unit length so that it was suitable for transportation, and developed a ‘rotating frame’ so that the culverts could be safely and efficiently rotated on-site during installation.

After more than 18 months of planning, temporary works and jacking, the 35 culverts were successfully jacked under a live rail line, making the project both complex and dangerous, with any movement of the line causing potential closure and millions of dollars in lost revenue.

These two successful projects demonstrate how looking beyond traditional product design can deliver real project value.

Humes is Australia’s leading provider of engineered concrete solutions for the civil construction industry, providing innovative solutions for a wide variety of applications, including stormwater, bridges and platforms, and tunnels and shafts.

Precast concrete solutions Humes offers a range of precast concrete solutions for bridges and platforms, roads and rail, tunnels and shafts, retaining walls, pipeline systems, water treatment, reuse and detention, and traffic management.

Call 1300 361 601 or visit humes.com.au for more information. © 2013 Holcim (Australia) Pty Ltd ABN 87 09 732 297

AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION •Y THETHE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21 21 • 171

infrastructure + engineering Tumbi Creek bridge installation

Right project, right place, right price One New South Wales council has made a quantum leap in the way it manages its projects and purchasing, helping it to claw back from a $30-million deficit to a small surplus in just three years.

W

yong Shire Council on the New South Wales Central Coast, just north of Sydney, has completely overhauled its project management, contract management and procurement systems over the last three years.

The changes have been recognised at a national level. One of the team members, Mary-Ellen Wallace, took out the New South Wales Procurement Officer of the Year 2013 Award for her best practice ideas.

The Contract and Project Management team instigated reform of the procurement process to ensure that Council is doing the right projects, in the right place, at the right price.

They introduced new policies and procedures to support organisation-wide changes that tied into Council’s overall realisation that local government would need to evolve and become more self-sufficient through commercial enterprises and innovations, because state and federal funding was becoming ever more challenging to obtain.

Robert Fulcher, Manager Contract and Project Management, says changes are making a real difference to the capacity of Council to successfully plan and deliver its contracts and projects.

‘I believe Wyong Shire is now one of the leading councils in procurement and project management,’ Fulcher says.

The new procurement best practices, together with a number of other initiatives, have played a key part in

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moving the council from $30 million in the red in 2010, to running a small surplus this year, saving over $90 million across three years.

Mayor Doug Eaton says that the savings have put the Council in a far stronger position to service its growing population of 155,000 people and to drive economic development on the Central Coast by investing in community infrastructure.

He says it has also meant that Council is buying local more often, with transparent and open procurement processes, thus supporting local business and the local economy.

‘We will spend $340 million in the next financial year on infrastructure and community services, making 2014–15 a bumper year for Council spending,’ Mayor Eaton says.

‘Apart from the City of Sydney, which is out of our league in terms of revenue base, Wyong Shire Council will be the biggest investor in community infrastructure out of any council in New South Wales next financial year,’ he says.

Apart from the City of Sydney, which is out of our league in terms of revenue base, Wyong Shire Council will be the biggest investor in community infrastructure out of any Council in New South Wales next financial year ‘We will be spending $100 million on community infrastructure alone in 2014–15. Comparable-sized councils like Liverpool, Parramatta and Newcastle are all spending less than $50 million.’

Robert Fulcher studying plans for Tumbi Creek bridge

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The VendorPanel process is making it easier to do business with Council and to quote for Council work. Procurement has become a boon for local business The extensive works program is possible only after several hard years of organisational reform, including innovation, efficiency improvements and the elimination of unnecessary spending.

Previously, Council often failed to complete all capital works planned for the year; capital works often ran over budget; opportunities were lost when funding deadlines passed; and there was organisational atomisation involving a lack of transfer between departments.

The new Roadmap Process is a rigorous system designed to manage risk so that Council can cater for its rapidly expanding population by addressing an infrastructure backlog and by efficiently tackling its huge number of upcoming projects.

The system overhaul also means that requests to state and federal governments for project funding are based on the strongest possible business case.

Mayor Doug Eaton (centre) and staff survey the newly completed Warnervale road

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The Roadmap Process first identifies project details and internal/external stakeholders, and then requires the formation of a comprehensive business case followed by project evaluation using tools that rank the value of the project against Council objectives.

‘New practices are key to Council’s momentum, and have shifted infrastructure management and planning into high gear,’ says Mayor Eaton.

‘The Roadmap Process subscribes to the motto “no roadmap, no funding”, and has resulted in a powerful procurement tool that informs Council of its procurement needs 12 to 24 months in advance.’

In a climate where 30 per cent of the Central Coast’s workforce commutes outside its bounds to work, and youth unemployment sits at 28 per cent, Council’s fundamental objective is to evolve, modifying operations to provide jobs and support the local economy as a matter of priority.

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The Roadmap Process and the associated vendor panel initiative consolidate new planning and procurement strategies that support local supplier engagement, facilitating targeted procurement resources for local businesses that are struggling to compete with bigger companies in the open-tender market.

‘The VendorPanel process is making it easier to do business with Council and to quote for Council work.

Procurement has become a boon for local business,’ says Fulcher.

In the 2011–2012 year, $32 million was paid in amounts under $145,000 to 2525 suppliers. Less than 50 per cent of that expenditure went to local suppliers.

Now there are measures that provide opportunities for local suppliers through a Local Preference Policy, which involves weighting for local content, caps on adverse financial impact, tender exempt panel contracts and VendorPanel selective sourcing for goods and services under $150,000.

By using VendorPanel and welcoming changed policies, Council has so far established over 40 Wyong Shire Council-specific supplier panels targeting Central Coast businesses.

Council has also sourced over $3 million in expenditure via VendorPanel in the last nine months by giving work to competitive locals.

Local suppliers are now specially targeted via VendorPanel for smaller projects under $150,000, and through the Local Preference Policy on large open tenders.

‘VendorPanel has been successful, as it has created competitive market tension and resulted in unexpected savings,’ says Mary-Ellen Wallace.

‘We found that that we had an alignment between the interests of local suppliers and Council.

‘Staff previously had insufficient time for procurement, but can now realistically deliver projects before funding deadlines.

‘Procurement used to be a complicated process, but it’s far easier now that we’ve established panels as opposed to just open tendering.

Mayor Doug Eaton, Mary-Ellen Wallace and Greg McDonald

‘If a local business gets their name on VendorPanel, we know that they’re interested and available. We are balancing our aim to source work locally with the aim to obtain a good price,’ she says.

Council has increased the participation of local suppliers, produced more open panels and instigated a transparent and efficient means of vendor engagement.

The ability to handle large and ongoing capital works and infrastructure projects will stand Wyong Shire Council in good stead as it approaches significant growth and sustainability challenges, welcoming another 70,000 new residents over the next 16 years.

Council’s willingness to adapt to change has meant that it now has the resources and the tools to produce capital works programs to ensure that the right infrastructure and economic development initiatives are in place to cater for the needs of current and future residents.

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Victorian Road Safety Strategy 2013–22 The Victorian Coalition Government has establised the 10-year Victorian Road Safety Strategy 2013–22. The Strategy outlines an approach that will lead to major improvements in safety on our roads.

T

hese improvements will make a dramatic difference, reducing the Victorian road toll by more than 30 per cent to below 200 deaths per year – a number that was thought to be impossible less than a decade ago.

Minister for Roads Terry Mulder says the Strategy also tackles the hidden road toll: serious injury.

‘Like other jurisdictions in the world, Victoria has not been able to reduce serious injury to the same extent as it has reduced deaths,’ Mulder says.

‘The strategy includes an Australian-first commitment to developing a specific target to dramatically reduce the most severe forms of injury, such as quadriplegia and brain injury.’

The strength of this new strategy and the first Action Plan 2013–16 is that it’s based on proven initiatives backed by research and hard evidence. It is also the result of wide community consultation, which saw more 176 • THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21

than 16,000 responses to a road safety survey and discussion paper.

The Strategy is based on the Safe System approach.

The Safe System is about safer people in safer vehicles at safer speeds on safer roads. It’s about a whole range of initiatives that are in place across the road network to reduce the road toll.

Victoria’s Road Safety Action Plan 2013–16 focuses effort on the major contributors to trauma – speed and impaired driving – as well as protecting those most at risk, including motorcyclists, pedestrians and cyclists.

Achieving these targets requires a comprehensive range of effective and evidence-based initiatives.

Included among these initiatives are: • $1 billion commitment over the next decade to improve the state’s most dangerous roads and intersections • improved safety at Victoria’s regional rail crossings, and motorcycle blackspot treatments along popular touring routes in regional Victoria • tougher penalties for drink and drug drivers, including alcohol interlocks for all convicted drink drivers, and impoundment of vehicles for over 0.10 blood alcohol concentration • making greater use of technology to alert drivers when they are speeding

infrastructure + engineering

• education and enforcement campaigns to tackle the problem of distraction and mobile phone use while driving. From 25 November 2013, drivers caught using a mobile phone face a $433 fine (up from $289) and the loss of four demerit points (up from three points). In addition, the total ban on mobile phone use was extended from P1 drivers through to P2 • introduction of pedestrian and cyclist ‘black area’ treatments to improve infrastructure for vulnerable road users • young drivers – targeted education and extension of the Fit to Drive program to all Victorian schools, and an extension of the ban to all P-plate drivers on the use of mobile phones • older road users – simplification of the road environment and improvement of signage • motorcyclists – introduction of a graduated licensing system for motorcyclists and mandatory wearing of boots • unlicensed drivers – requirements for all Victorian drivers and riders to carry their licences when on the road • trucks – trial of fatigue detection technology for truck drivers and introduction of new penalties for tailgating • tailgating – developing new legislation and implementing a trial of new technology to allow greater enforcement of stopping tailgating of all vehicles, including trucks at high-risk locations, such as tunnels • vehicle safety – trial of in-vehicle warning devices to alert drivers to hazards, such as trains approaching level crossings.

The Victorian Coalition Government taking action on its own is not enough. The Coalition Government and its road safety agencies can make roads and roadsides safer, set safe speed limits, promote the development and purchase of safer vehicles, and encourage people to behave more safely on the roads. But this will only get us so far – the community needs to be involved.

‘That’s why we are calling on all road users to play their part,’ says Mulder.

‘The Victorian Government is seeking the help of influential community leaders to achieve the vision of zero deaths and serious injuries on our roads.

‘Whether somebody is behind the wheel, in the passenger seat, on the seat of a motorbike or walking across a road, they need to make sure that they and others around them stay safe. It’s the choices we all make every day on the roads that will make the difference.’

That’s why the Strategy takes a new collaborative approach. The Victorian Coalition Government commits to making roads, vehicles and roadsides safer. Through engineering safer infrastructure and creating a strong safety environment, we can achieve this, but everybody needs to commit to making the right choices and doing the right things to stay safe.

Victoria’s road safety partners – VicRoads, Transport Accident Commission, Victoria Police and the Department of Justice – are supported by a whole-ofgovernment approach. For instance, the health sector plays a major role. The world-leading Victoria State Trauma System prioritises those most in need of fast attention, and transports them to the best hospital to deal with their injury.

This holistic approach to road safety is overseen by the new Ministerial Council for Road Safety. The Ministers meet regularly to make sure that the Strategy and Action Plan are on track, and to keep people safer on our roads.

Building on the steady progress of previous years, and under Victoria’s Road Safety Strategy, we have achieved positive outcomes over the past 12 months in reducing road trauma. The Victorian Coalition Government will continue to work with our safety partners, and will keep fighting to save every single life on our roads and prevent serious injury.

‘The community – that’s each and every one of us – must stay vigilant, making good safety decisions to protect ourselves and others,’ says Mulder.

‘Through our collective efforts, we will continue to reduce road trauma and be safer on our roads.’

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ACCESS ALL AREAS

Infrastructure + engineering

J

ust about every week in Australia there are incidents of vehicles entering pedestrian areas or crashing through retail shop windows. Each time it happens there is an investigation to assess whether or not it could have been prevented.

Local government engineers understand the importance of design and infrastructure that provides protection for pedestrians and roadside diners from potential impact from an errant vehicle. In areas where there is an interchange between pedestrians and vehicles, the need for a guardrail or a crash cushion can restrict egress in a streetscape.

The Omni Stop Bollard by Saferoads is an energyabsorbing bollard that has been crash-tested to 60 kilometres per hour and is the only one of its type in Australia. The Omni Stop Bollard does not restrict egress; it prevents vehicle penetration and can, in fact, be a decorative addition to the streetscape. The unique energyabsorbing cartridge is encased in a concrete footing 1000 millimetres deep by 600 millimetres wide, and this provides the support for the 12.5-millimetre walled carbon steel bollard to deform the cartridge when the bollard is impacted. The bollard will stroke approximately 300 millimetres at the top when impacted by a 1600-kilogram vehicle at 60 kilometres per hour. The omni-directional impact capability gave the bollard its name, and provides the opportunity to locate the bollards where they can provide the best protection. The bollard itself can be reused after most impacts.

The Adelaide City Council has made the use of energyabsorbing bollards to protect diners a part of its dining policy, requiring the applicant to install adequate coverage commensurate with the number of kerb-side diners. Other councils have followed suit, mitigating their exposure in the event of an incident. Bus stops are especially high-risk areas that could benefit from the installation of Omni Stop Bollards, as there are numbers of commuters closer than normal to the edge of the road.

The technology has been used by Saferoads in the creation of a new Safecrossing product. A typical school crossing configuration is replaced by modified Omni Stop Bollards that will provide positive protection for children, teachers and parents at school crossings. In some jurisdictions, timber posts are used at school crossings and require regular cyclic maintenance and replacement when impacted, at Council’s cost.

The Safecrossing requires no maintenance, and when impacted, and as an added bonus, the vehicle’s insurance covers the cost of repair or replacement.

The City of Casey, in Melbourne’s outer south-east, installed the first Safecrossing in Narre Warren in early 2013, and within months the Council reported that on one weekend, of four separate school-crossing post sets that were targeted by hoon drivers, the Safecrossing was the only one that would get full cost recovery to repair, as the vehicle was at the scene when police arrived.

For more information, contact Saferoads on 1800 060 672 and request an Omni Stop USB.

178 X • THE • THE AUSTRALIAN AUSTRALIAN LOCAL LOCAL GOVERNMENT GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK YEARBOOK EDITION EDITION 2121

Omni Stop Bollards

The energy absorbing bollard

• The ONLY bollard that meets Australian Crash Barrier Standard (60km/h) • Stops vehicles from entering pedestrian areas • Energy absorbing cartridge safely decelerates to protect vehicle occupants • Repairable after vehicle impact • Available in a range of colours • Does not restrict pedestrian access

Outdoor dining

Safecrossing

Contact Saferoads for a supply and installation quote

1800 060 072

www.saferoads.com.au

Pedestrian refuge

corporate profile

TECHNICAL SUPPORT FOR LOCAL GOVERNMENT, COUNCIL AND REGIONAL WATER AUTHORITY STAFF News, technical, training and innovation information

A

LS is a company that prides itself on its technical capabilities and expertise in the field of environmental monitoring. ALS also recognises that the wider sector often has staff in small teams and/or remote locations, and that these practitioners can find it more difficult to gain access to technical support and training.

From 1997, ALS has been providing technical support newsletters (EnviroMails) covering new technologies, guidelines or sampling, and analysis in detail to support field staff. These focus on several key areas: • drinking, catchment, treated and recycled water • general water quality monitoring and sampling • persistent organic pollutants (POPs), endocrine disruptors and emerging chemicals of concern • quality, data management and innovation reporting • sediments plus ASS/AMD and sizings • air, gas, hygiene and stack emissions • waste and soil classification for landfill.

Topics have included: 1,4 dioxane in water Adsorbable organic halides AOX Algae and cyanobacteria in water Arsenic and selenium speciation in water C1–C4 gases in water Cryptosporidium genotyping Cryptosporidium infectivity Cyanide – data quality, interferences and troubleshooting for water Cyanide – field techniques to maximise data quality in water Disinfection by products Efficiency improvements in water sampling Enteric viruses in water Extended nitrosamines in water Helminth ova analysis MIB and geosmin in water Microbial source tracking in water NDMA in water PPCPs steroids and EDCs in water

To receive our EnviroMails, please email enviromail@alsglobal.com or sign up online at www.alsglobal.com/enviromail.

180 • THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION X • THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 2121

corporate profile

Water resources group The water resources group will soon expand this technical support and training to the wider Australian water industry professionals, covering topics in 20-minute sessions (with another 20 minutes for questions) via go-tomeeting teleconferences. Sessions will include many of the EnviroMail topics and provide opportunities to pose questions to expert staff.

Topics will include: Field analysis/measurement – maximising quality.

Sampling for microbiological parameters – to avoid false positives and preservation, chilling and holding times.

Biosolids – prescribed uses, sampling and volume requirements, parameters to analyse and classification.

Leading Australian testing company • • • • • •

Drinking/Potable Water Ambient Air Landfill Monitoring Waste Classificatoin of Soils Trade Waste/Waste Water Occupational Hygiene

BGA (blue-green algae) focused on the analysis of rivers, creeks, channels, reservoirs, lakes, ponds, wetlands and farm dams. Correct sampling technique, what do the results mean and algal toxin testing.

Swimming pool/aquatic centre monitoring – Health Department requirements, typical analysis, indicator organisms and cryptosporidium, interpretation of results and managing public health.

Tradewaste – mode of sampling and frequency, general licence requirements, parameters to monitor.

Landfills – sampling, analysis and result interpretation.

Groundwater – monitoring of bores used for human and livestock consumption, agricultural uses, camping grounds, golf courses and more.

• • • • • •

Acid Sulfate Soils Swimming Pool Testing Biosolids General Water Quality Monitoring Water Level Flow Rainfall

Contact us for free quote on all your testing needs.

Environmental Adelaide Brisbane Chinchilla Darwin Emerald Gladstone Mackay Melbourne

Mudgee Newcastle Nowra Perth Roma Sydney Townsville Wollongong

+61 8 8162 5130 +61 7 3243 7222 +61 7 4665 5770 +61 488 073 271 +61 7 4988 2600 +61 7 4978 7944 +61 7 4944 0177 +61 3 8549 9600

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Water Resources Group (WRG) Bendigo Brisbane Canberra Geelong Melbourne

Perth Sydney Traralgon Wangaratta

+61 3 5441 0700 +61 7 3243 7222 +61 2 6202 5400 +61 3 5226 9249 +61 3 8756 8000

+61 8 9209 7655 +61 2 8784 8555 +61 3 5176 4170 +61 3 5722 2688

Monitoring and Technical Services (MATS) To be added to a distribution listing, and to be invited to these free information sessions, please email WaterIndustrySupport@alsglobal.com.

Brisbane Canberra Mackay

+61 7 3243 7222 +61 2 6202 5400 +61 7 4944 0177

Melbourne +61 3 8756 8000 Rockhampton +61 7 4921 2599 Sydney +61 2 4721 3477

Darwin

Townsville

Mount Isa

Mackay Alice Springs

Key Environmental Water Resources MATS Group Inter-Divisional Support

Rockhampton Gladstone

Emerald Roma

Chinchilla

Brisbane Kalgoorlie

Perth

Mudgee Orange

Adelaide Bendigo Geelong

Right Solutions . Right Partner

Gunnedah Newcastle

Sydney

Lithgow Wollongong Canberra Nowra Wangaratta Traralgon

Melbourne

www.alsglobal.com/environmental

THETHE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21 21 • 181 AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION •Y

infrastructure + engineering

infrastructure + engineering

UNCOVERING THE UNDERGROUND

L

ooking for underground services? Or do you require a structural or non-structural scan investigation?

GeoScan Utility and Structural Investigation is a nationally accredited company that provides a range of services based on techniques in locating underground assets, structural scanning and site survey investigation.

Services we offer are:

Concrete scanning imaging Examples of use: • Locating and plotting rebar and post tension cable • Clearance for proposed cutting and coring • Detection of voids and deterioration • Detection of pipes and conduits in concrete, such as live power cables • Obtaining depths of concrete structure, including slab thickness

• Underground storage tanks

• Buried pits and valve boxes • Underground voids and ground disturbance • Tree root mapping.

Underground pipe and cable location Examples of use: • Location of metallic and non-metallic utilities.

Cable fault detection Examples of use: • Location of underground faults (down to earth) on electrical, communication, or even irrigation wire loom control lines.

GeoScan provides the latest in equipment technology to deal with clients’ requests. We possess a wide range of technical capabilities and accreditations, and are fully trained in locating and mapping underground utilities.

• Concrete scanning is conducted in 2-D and 3-D mode.

Ground penetrating radar imaging Examples of use: • Non-metallic utilities

Before you begin your next project, contact Jon Armstrong on 0417 309 710, or visit www.geoscan.com.au. We can provide you with sound, practical advice in order to start the process of achieving your desired goal.

• Concrete scanning

• GPR technician

• Ground penetrating radar imaging

• Site survey and drafting

• Underground pipe and cable location

• Services accredited

• Cable fault detection

www.geoscan.com.au Email: geoscanuls@bigpond.com | PO Box 67, Torquay, Vic 3228 182 • THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21 THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21 • X

infrastructure + engineering

Councils working on wastewater treatment Wastewater treatment is receiving a lot of attention in local governments’ infrastructure budgets, with many projects underway to improve wastewater management processes.

F

ollowing are three case studies of local areas addressing their communities’ needs with regard to the management of sewage and wastewater.

Loganholme Wastewater Treatment Plant gets a new lease on life A vital infrastructure upgrade at Logan’s largest wastewater treatment plant is now complete, enabling the facility to operate efficiently for the long term.

The $22.5 million upgrade at the Loganholme Wastewater Treatment Plant involved construction of a new ‘inlet works’ structure and installation of mechanical equipment including wastewater screens, grit tanks and a grit conveyance system. Five existing and future incoming wastewater pipelines will connect to the new inlet works, while an odour control facility was constructed, and pump station and bypass network modifications were made at the plant.

Roads and Water Infrastructure Committee Chairperson Councillor Don Petersen (Division 4) said the construction of the impressive 2500-cubic-metre concrete inlet works structure was needed to improve the capacity

and operational efficiency of the 30-year-old treatment plant and provide environmental enhancements.

‘The inlet works is the “front door” of the treatment plant, receiving and screening incoming wastewater flows from across Logan 24 hours a day,’ he said.

‘It is immediately capable of receiving and screening 6400 litres of wastewater per second, which is almost double the inflow the plant could handle before this upgrade. It’s the equivalent of filling an Olympic swimming pool in five minutes.

‘At its ultimate capacity, the inlet works will be able to receive and effectively screen 8800 litres of wastewater per second, which would fill an Olympic swimming pool in under four minutes.’

Cr Petersen said Council had an obligation to ensure essential services, such as the wastewater network, could keep pace with the rapid population growth occurring across the city.

‘Growth in the Loganholme catchment is expected to increase by nearly 40 per cent by 2026, and 70 per cent by 2051, which is a major reason that Council invested in this upgrade now rather than in 10 years’ time,’ he said.

Councillor Luke Smith (Division 6) said the project, delivered by the Logan Water Alliance, had been completed ahead of schedule, within budget and without any significant safety incidents.

‘Almost 500 workers, including engineers, labourers, environmental officers, safety officers and project support officers invested 60,000 working hours into completing this project over 17 months,’ he said.

THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21 • 183

infrastructure + engineering

‘In constructing the inlet works structure, 985 cubic metres of concrete was used, around 100 pieces of mechanical equipment were installed and 1.026 kilometres of connecting pipework was laid,’ he said.

‘The New South Wales Government is dedicated to delivering new and improved infrastructure for people of the Lower Hunter to ensure they have what’s needed for today and the future,’ he said.

‘Council’s total investment in improving the Loganholme catchment’s wastewater network will exceed $70 million by late 2014 when these works are complete.’

Biosolids to benefit Maryborough farmland

Adamstown’s new system Hunter Water has completed a $13 million upgrade to its wastewater system, which should bring to an end years of sewer overflows in the Newcastle suburb of Adamstown, and surrounding suburbs, that occurred every time the suburb experienced heavy rain.

The eight-year project used state-of-the-art technology known as ‘horizontal directional drilling’ to tunnel beneath Merewether Golf Course and through the hill at Merewether Heights to Burwood Waste Water Treatment Plant, all without disturbing life above the surface.

Hunter Water Chief Operating Officer Darren Cleary said the project’s 4.5 kilometres of pipeline, plus a new pumping station off Glebe Road, would immediately improve the system in Adamstown and surrounding suburbs.

‘During wet weather, water infiltrates the wastewater system. Because Adamstown is particularly low-lying, it’s especially susceptible to heavy rain flooding the network and leading to sewer overflows.

‘This upgrade means the Adamstown system can remove wastewater much faster and greatly reduce the potential for overflows in the area.

‘This project involved the longest horizontal directional drilling distance undertaken by Hunter Water in order to minimise disruption to local residents and businesses,’ he said.

Member for Newcastle Tim Owen said the Adamstown upgrade was part of a long-term strategy for improving wastewater performance throughout Newcastle.

‘This work will provide residents with a noticeably more reliable wastewater system and also allow for any future growth in the area.

184 • THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21

Works to recycle biosolids and use them as fertiliser on about 50 hectares of local farmland have started at the Maryborough Wastewater Treatment Plant in Victoria.

Visiting Maryborough, Minister for Water Peter Walsh said the project was an innovative example of how waste could be turned into a valuable resource for local agricultural production.

‘Biosolids, which are generated from dewatered sewage sludge, are very similar to the more traditional compost material,’ Walsh said.

‘They are high in nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium, which are all great for fertilising land, so it makes sense to recycle these biosolids and put them to use.

‘Innovative technology is being used to reduce any odour impacts during the process, so this great innovation is both protecting local amenity and supporting farm productivity.’

Mr Walsh said in 2012 Central Highlands Water conducted a review of its biosolids management practices and reaffirmed its commitment to recycling 100 per cent of biosolids produced.

‘Following the review, Central Highlands Water made biosolids management a priority and, in doing so, is diversifying its approach in order to take advantage of the more effective reuse of biosolids by local farmers,’ Mr Walsh said.

‘By following EPA Victoria’s biosolids land application guidelines, biosolids generated from the Maryborough facility will be recycled to improve the productivity of approximately 50 hectares of local farm land by making use of valuable nutrients,’ Mr Jose said.

infrastructure + engineering

infrastructure + engineering

THE ADVANTAGE OF EXPERIENCE...

C

learflow Australia is one of the most prominent pipeline maintenance companies in Australia. The business base spans 20 years. If you combine those years with associate companies, both nationally and internationally, you have knowledge and experience spanning 60 years.

What they do…

• Refurbish the internal bore of pipelines • Remove bacterial bio-film from the internal bore of the pipelines and secure water quality standards • Eliminate dirty water complaints and continuous call-outs

• Servicing councils, water authorities and government departments • Mining and gas companies

• Value-add their service to their clients

• Project, civil and consulting engineers

• Confirm mapping information and records

• Industrial, commercial and all associated with a pipeline asset.

• Consult on design and/or improvements to water reticulation systems, water flows and pressure readings • Solve complex cleaning issues associated with most pipeline assets Clearflow Australia brings knowledge, experience and professionalism to their client base:

Their commitment: to produce the desired results effectively and economically, in the best interests of the client.

The mobilisation of their crew and equipment means that Clearflow services clients Australia-wide.

As a Clearflow client, you are never far away.

premier pipeline cleaning and maintenance operations.

CLEARFLOW AUSTRALIA

We have over 20 years experience completing projects for:

PIPELINE MAINTENANCE & MANAGEMENT

Value-adding to your maintenance programme upfront

competitive

all-inclusive

giving you an edge in maintaining your valuable assets

√ water authorities and councils √ industrial plants √ √ √ √

project, civil & consulting engineers government departments the mining industry gas pressure delivery pipelines and station pipelines

Price . Quality . Credibility . Service . Responsiveness . Guarantee t: 0407 166 235 Air Scouring

Pigging

Maintenance

Map Rectification

Consulting

X • THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21 THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21 • 185

corporate profile

ELIMINATING ODOUR NUISANCE

I

Merrimac Wastewater Treatment Plant Odour Control Facility

t’s been several years since the highly successful odour control facility was completed for the Merrimac Wastewater Treatment Plant. The plant was upgraded at a cost of $55 million in order to cater for the substantial growth in the Gold Coast population. The upgrade necessitated the effective management of odour emissions from the new facility, which comprised the covering and ventilation of the main wastewater treatment biological reactors, inlet works and biosolids storage facility with a total air treatment capacity of 52,000 cubic metres per hour.

Since this time, Aromatrix Australia has further enhanced this unique technology such that their new AroBIOS™ biotrickling filters can now achieve the stringent discharge concentrations, as required for the Merrimac facility, without the aid of secondary treatment processes such as carbon filters. This now enables councils, which may need to control odour nuisance from their wastewater treatment plants or other odour-producing facilities within their jurisdictions, to drastically reduce their treatment costs and at the same time reduce their carbon footprints.

The odour control facility selected for such a large plant was unique in that it represented an environmentally sustainable approach to odour control. This was achieved through the use of bacteria for the primary treatment stage rather than hazardous chemicals, as has been the case for most other large wastewater treatment plants around Australia. The facility consists of four biotrickling filters followed by four activated carbon filters, and was, at the time, the largest biological odour control facility for a wastewater treatment plant in Australia. Performance testing of the completed facility showed removal efficiencies for both hydrogen sulphide and odour (as measured by the Australian Standard AS4323.3) to be 99.99 per cent and 99.9 per cent respectively.

About one-third of all complaints by the public concerning pollution relate to odour, with the majority of complaints centred around animal product processing activities, waste treatment facilities and specific highodour intensity industries related to chemical processing and manufacturing.

While the activated carbon filters were installed to ensure the stringent odour emission levels were achieved, the heart of the treatment facility was the biotrickling filters, which removed the majority of the odour using bacteria that are self-sustaining and thus require no ongoing costly media or chemical replacement.

186 • THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION X • THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 2121

Odour problems can also arise when incompatible land uses are allowed to occur. For example, subdivision of land close to existing industries has caused many land-use conflicts over the years.

The factors that influence odour complaints include the frequency of the odour occurrence, the intensity of the odour, the duration of the exposure to the odour, the offensiveness of the odour and the location of the odour.

Councils must deal with any odour impacting on the amenity of the community under the legislative framework within each state that protects against unreasonable emissions that interfere with the health, welfare, convenience, comfort or amenity of any person.

corporate profile

It is certainly preferable to prevent odour nuisance occurring in the first place, as repeated exposure may sensitise a community, leading to an intolerance to even minor nuisances, and require more extensive and costly control measures. Prevention may take the form of eliminating the source of odour, and substitution of, or modifications to, the process that leads to the generation of odours. If odour emissions cannot be eliminated, then methods to control emissions need to be employed.

While biotrickling filters provide a unique approach to sustainable treatment, other methods such as activated carbon filtration and chemical scrubbing can be used where extremely low odour levels are required or specific non-biodegradable compounds need to be treated.

Merrimac WWTP

Aromatrix Australia has successfully delivered numerous air treatment facilities within Australia and overseas, such

as Singapore, China, the United States, the Middle East, Turkey, the Philippines and South Korea. This experience provides reassurance to communities, councils and other stakeholders that odour nuisance can be eliminated.

1. 8,400 m3/hr biotrickling filter system (Kranji, Singapore) 2. 52,000 m3/hr Biotrickling & activated carbon filter system (Merrimac, QLD) 3. 158,700 m3/hr Activated carbon filter system (Beenyup, WA)

Are odours annoying your neighbours?

Aromatrix is a leading provider of innovative solutions to air quality and odour related problems for landfill, MRFs, waste transfer faciities and transfer stations. Find out how our award winning range of odour control technologies (biotrickling filters, activated carbon filters, chemical scrubbers) can help you solve your odour problems.

Our technology is based on over 20 years of research and experience around the world.

For further information please visit: W www.aromatrix.com.au E sales@aromatrix.com.au T +617 3277 1190

AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION â&#x20AC;˘Y THETHE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21 21 â&#x20AC;˘ 187

regional airports

Planning in regional and rural airports

By Caroline Wilkie, Chief Executive Officer, Australian Airports Association Airports are essential public infrastructure assets. They can generate significant social and economic benefits to communities, but they need to be properly planned and protected over the long term to realise these benefits, and to ensure their safe and efficient operation.

T

here are around 250 airports across Australia that have regular passenger services, and many more much smaller aerodromes and landing strips around the country, with reports of some 2000 across Australia.

Australia’s network of airports across major urban centres and regional areas forms an integral part of the national economic infrastructure, and is critical to connecting communities and enhancing broader economic performance.

188 • THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21

The Australian Airports Association (AAA) published a study conducted by Deloitte Access Economics, which showed that in 2011, Australia’s airports generated a total economic contribution of around $17.3 billion, equivalent to around 1.2 per cent of gross domestic product (GDP). National employment at airports was estimated at approximately 115,200 full-time equivalent (FTE) workers. Consisting of nearly 56,500 air transport jobs (ABS 2012), the broader aviation industry supports activity at airports and air-service-dependent sectors.

The AAA also published a major research paper that brought together little-known and seldom-recognised facts about Australia’s regional airports; it sought to dispel various myths that circulate about them, and it catalogued the serious challenges they face in meeting the future needs of the communities they serve.

This research highlighted that 50 per cent of regional airports are unable to cover the costs of their operational expenses. This has implications for the long-term viability of these facilities that support the industry through provisions of flight training, aircraft maintenance, distribution of goods and a network of emergency services.

regional airports

Poor planning of airports can lead to a range of problems, including operational restrictions, amenity impacts for nearby residents, and airport closures in the extreme case Beyond their immediate economic footprints, airports play an important social role in connecting individuals, families and communities with the rest of the country and, indeed, the world.

Airports provide vital services to their communities, including the facilitation of mail and time-sensitive freight deliveries, the Royal Flying Doctor Service, CareFlight, bush taxis, and the transfer of workers to employment centres and job sites.

Airports are complex facilities, and experience has shown that the planning issues associated with airports are often not well understood. Poor planning of airports can lead to a range of problems, including operational restrictions, amenity impacts for nearby residents, and airport closures in the extreme case. A master plan is central to the orderly and proper planning of any airport.

In March 2014, the AAA released a Regional Airport master planning Guideline to help regional and rural airport operators plan strategically for the future development of on-airport infrastructure, as well as offairport planning activities.

The purpose or objectives behind each airport master plan will vary according to the particular location and circumstances of the airport; however, in general, master planning for airports can have several purposes, which can be divided into on-airport and off-airport objectives.

It is important to define the purpose or objectives of the master plan early in the process to set the scene for the project.

In relation to on-airport planning objectives, the key objectives of a master plan usually revolve around: • maintaining the ability for aircraft to operate safely and unrestricted • facilitating the ability for the airport to grow and expand in response to demand • promoting the role of the airport and its significance as a community asset • providing for the airport to increase revenue, including through non-aviation development • safeguarding of the airport’s long-term plans • ensuring compliance with relevant regulations • managing environmental and heritage constraints.

Off-airport planning is often an area overlooked or inadequately addressed by airport master plans.

Neverthless, this is a critical issue for the long-term safeguarding of any airport, and it should be addressed.

In relation to off-airport planning, a master plan generally aims to minimise the potential encroachment of incompatible activities and development in the vicinity of the airport, particularly in terms of aircraft noise impacts, THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21 • 189

regional airports

...during the master planning process, airport operators need to consider and answer these four questions: Where are we now? Where do we want to be? How do we get there? How do we ensure arrival? intrusions into the protected operational airspace of the airport, distractions to pilots from lighting in the vicinity of the airport, wildlife strikes, building-generated windshear and turbulence from nearby development, public safety, and impacts on navigational aids.

• The Civil Aviation Safety Regulations (CASR), particularly CASR Part 139 Aerodromes and the Manual of Standards Part 139 – Aerodromes, which contain the mandatory Australian Standards for the design of airport facilities

An airport master plan may also address other off-airport planning issues, such as ground transport arrangements serving the airport.

• The International Civil Aviation Organisation’s Airport Planning Manual, particularly Part 1: master planning, which provides guidance on the preparation of airport master plans and the key considerations to be taken into account in the planning process

It is important that on- and off-airport planning and development are linked and coordinated, and a comprehensive airport master plan can certainly assist in achieving this aim.

The issues to be considered in the planning of airports are many and varied. In order to assist, and in some cases regulate, the planning and design of airport facilities, there are several documents that provide guidance for airport planners and managers.

The key guidance documents to be considered in the planning process are:

190 • THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21

• The International Air Transport Association’s Airport Development Reference Manual, which provides guidance on designing airport facilities with airport user needs in mind • The National Airports Safeguarding Framework (NASF), which is a national land-use planning framework that aims to improve aviation safety, airport protection and community amenity by ensuring that these matters are considered in landuse planning decisions.

regional airports

There is no standard process or methodology for the preparation of an airport master plan. The process for each airport will vary according to its particular circumstances and the requirements of the airport operator; however, during the master planning process, airport operators need to consider and answer these four questions:

Planning Guideline, are critical to the safe and efficient design and operation of an airport, whether it be a small regional airport, or a larger international airport.

• How do we ensure arrival?

Airport operators or airport planners need to allow time to undertake this planning process comprehensively and diligently. In so doing, adequate time needs to be allowed for consultation with key stakeholders who have interests in the airport or its operations. It is particularly important that the master plan is aligned with government policy to ensure that the plan receives government support, and to maximise the ability for it to be implemented over time.

The design and layout of an airport involves the assessment and consideration of a range of complex issues, including future demand, rules and standards, current and future aircraft types, surrounding land use, climate and topography. These considerations, and others outlined in the AAA’s Regional Airport Master

After taking all of these considerations into account and applying them to the design of an airport, a robust master plan can be produced to guide the future development of the airport, protect its ongoing operations, and realise the economic and social benefits that regional airports can provide to their communities.

• Where are we now?

• Where do we want to be?

• How do we get there?

THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21 • 191

regional airports

MORE THAN JUST FREIGHT ,

T

oll Holdings is one of Australia’s largest companies and one of the most recognisable brands in the Australian marketplace. Toll provides freight services – lots of it. It employs more than 45,000 people in 55 countries, giving life to local and international business by providing the vital connections that allow businesses to interact and exchange goods.

But Toll is more than a freight company. It is also one of the major players in the Australian aviation sector, with one of the broadest ranges of aviation services of any company in the country. Every day, Toll operates more than 50 aircraft, linking towns and cities across Australia.

Every day, Toll operates a fleet of helicopters to help protect Australia’s national interests. Every day, Toll provides ground support to a host of major international carriers at our major airports. And every day, Toll provides a range of airport management services that help maintain security and safety at a range of Australian airports.

Security and passenger screening Toll is an approved screening authority and Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) issuing authority, and delivers comprehensive airport security and screening services to a range of customers across Australia. Our team has prepared transport security plans and operates in locations that include the most remote places in Australia. Our teams are supported by industry best practice business and safety systems, with performance standards assured by ISO-accredited quality management systems.

Our teams provide services for local government, Commonwealth Government and resource sector clients, providing a breadth of understanding of client needs and service imperatives. Our staff is supported by a commitment to safety built around holistic safety management practices that meet the needs of the resources sector, and which have been independently accredited against Australian and ISO standards.

Airport operations and management In addition to aviation security services, Toll also provides a complete range of airport management services, from development and implementation of regulatory compliance documentation, through to complete management of airports on behalf of their owners.

Our Airport Reporting Officers (AROs) are highly experienced and focused on delivering complete, flexible and reliable operational solutions. Our AROs are fully trained Work Safety Officers and qualified Security Screeners, which delivers organisational depth often helpful in maintaining scheduled activities during periods of surge or unexpected absenteeism (e.g. through mass illness).

192 • THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION X • THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 2121

Our airport management services operate within an integrated airport management framework, which includes a comprehensive asset management system. This enables Toll to offer its customers the ability to rigorously manage asset histories and support forward budget planning.

Aviation fuel Toll is a global supplier of aviation refuelling services to operators in some of the harshest and most remote locations on earth. As one of the primary suppliers to the United Nations forces in Africa, we design, construct commission and operate aviation refuelling operations supporting large and small aircraft, fixed and rotary wing.

We own and operate our own aviation fuel storage facilities across the Asia-Pacific region and deliver hundreds of millions of litres per annum.

Our quality systems are fully compliant with International Air Transport Association (IATA) requirements, supported by supplementary compliance and quality assurance programs appropriate to the aviation regulations of each jurisdiction.

Aviation ground handling Toll also provides comprehensive aircraft, passenger and baggage ground-handling services, passenger check-in services and in-flight catering at international airport locations in Australia and at overseas locations.

Local community engagement Through an unrivalled national footprint, Toll is most probably a valuable member of your local business community already, providing investment, services and jobs for your local residents. These long-term commitments to engaging with and supporting your community provide us with a strong understanding of local community needs, pressures and networks, and assist with our commitment to recruiting locally and providing skills training and local opportunities.

Toll is more than just a freight company. It is a provider of complete supply-chain solutions, and to be the best, this means Toll has needed to develop an aviation footprint that is unrivalled in Australia in terms of breadth, reach and quality.

The result is the ability to provide to customers everywhere assistance with virtually any aspect of aviation support, from assistance with defining requirements, through to the provision of aviation security screening services, or the provision of multi-discipline, integrated services that provide desired efficiencies, performance standards and economies of scale.

For more information on how Toll can be of service to your regional airport, please call us on +61 7 3339 6500 or email remote.logistics@tollgroup.com

Airport Services

working with you to achieve your goals.

Our services

Benefits of working with Toll

Airport Management • • • • • •

Production of compliance assurance manuals such as Aerodrome Manuals and Transport Security plans Day-to-day airport management and compliance assurance Aircraft, baggage & passenger ground handling Air terminal services including check-in & passenger services Airport and facility maintenance Management of concessions

• Tailored solutions to meet customer needs, at any location • Integrated management systems that adapt to program needs • Support systems that configure to suit customer business systems • Operational flexibility • Minimised costs • Safety accreditations AS/NZS 4801 • Quality accreditations ISO 9001:2008 • Recruit, develop and support local staff

Airport Security • •

Passenger and baggage screening Aviation security compliance management

•

ASIC issuing body

Other Aiport Services • • • • • •

Fuel storage facility establishment & aircraft refuelling Works safety officers Asset management Facilities maintenance & care Capital works project management Fixed and rotary wing operations

Contact us today To find out how we can partner with your regional airport.

Phone: +61 7 3339 6500 Email: remote.logistics@tollgroup.com

Toll Remote Logistics

regional airports

THE AERODROME EXPERT

A

erodrome Management Services (AMS) is the aerodrome expert based in Western Australia, providing tailored aerodrome services across Australia. It has established quite the reputation as being the go-to company for all aerodrome-specific matters, ensuring that the correct information is in hand first time, at the right time.

The company offers multi-faceted services, including: • consultancy • inspections • survey • aerodrome equipment • line-marking • training • aerodrome design and construction • relief aerodrome management.

AMS provides turnkey solutions whereby all aerodrome services can be contracted, allowing the organisation to

focus on its core business. From aerodrome management to refuelling, security screening and maintenance, not only do they do it, but they do it safely. AMS operates a comprehensive safety management system ensuring best safety and compliance outcomes for the aerodrome business.

In mid-2013, AMS became a Western Australia Local Government preferred supplier, which makes sense given their strong affiliation and commitment to local government organisations with aerodrome assets across Western Australia.

AMS clients benefit from an over-the-phone free advisory service, reinforced with after-hours availability.

The AMS team has the subject matter experts on hand to help support any component of your aerodrome needs.

MANAGEMENT  INSPECTIONS  COMPLIANCE  SURVEY  DESIGN  ENGINEERING  TRAINING  SECURITY  REFUELLING  ELECTRICAL

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regional airports The runway at Cairns International Airport

The role of airports in economic growth: the case of regional Australia

By Douglas Baker*, MD Kamruzzaman* and Rico Merkert^ *SCHOOL OF CIVIL ENGINEERING AND BUILT ENVIRONMENT, QUEENSLAND UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY ^INSTITUTE OF TRANSPORT AND LOGISTIC STUDIES, THE UNIVERSITY OF SYDNEY BUSINESS SCHOOL

Air services are essential to the social, economic and cultural sustainability of Australia’s regional communities. Approximately 171 regional airports across Australia account for 35 per cent of all aircraft movements, and over four million Australians rely on regional air services across the country (RAAA, 2011). Almost 70 per cent of these airports rely on a single airline (AAA, 2012).

R

egional airlines deliver essential services across Australia that include transport and freight, essential medical and flying doctor services, search and rescue, social and law enforcement services to the bush, and business and tourism travel.

Regular passenger transport (RPT) is a critical service to rural Australia that connects regional, rural and remote centres to each other, and to capital cities. RPT services are closely linked to quality of life and resilient social networks in rural communities, and enable rural and remote residents to access the everyday events that urban residents take for granted. Regional industries – such as tourism, mining and manufacturing, which have a significant impact on employment prospects and the resilience of rural and regional communities – are also dependent on reliable air services. As those services are often not financially viable, governments may intervene and use mechanisms such as the Australian Remote Air Services Subsidy (RASS) to keep not only the

THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21 • 195

regional airports

Figure 1: Passengers at Australian regional airport 1985/86 – 2012/13

Source: Analysis based on BITRE data.

relevant routes open (for further details, see Merkert and Hensher, 2013) but also the affected regional airlines and airports in business.

Many remote, rural and regional communities depend on air service delivery, and a resilient network of airports and airlines. This is challenging in a contemporary environment for remote and regional air service delivery that is complex, fluid, and subject to contextual and environmental challenges (Donehue and Baker, 2012).

For example, between 2005 and 2008, the number of airports decreased from 170 to 148; however, this trend reversed starting in 2011, when 151 airports increased to 171 airports in 2012 (BITRE, 2013). The increase is primarily due to the boom in the mining sector and the focus on fly-in fly-out work (FIFO), which affects regional centres and remote locations near the mines.

The number of airlines to serve regional communities continues to decrease – with pressures on rising costs and declining returns, and with many airlines running ‘thin’ routes where low-capacity aircraft are operated with low load factors (RAAA, 2014). Airports often compete with each other in a larger airline network, and as regional airlines turn to a business model of larger aircraft with fewer flights and destinations, airports struggle to offer services to the regional community.

Thus, at the airline network scale, inefficiencies and competition often result in communities either losing their services or spending large amounts of capital on underutilised airport infrastructure.

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The number of airlines to serve regional communities continues to decrease – with pressures on rising costs and declining returns

regional airports

Mount Gambier Airport, the largest of the regional airports, provided employment for 233 employees, as well as a value of air transport at $5.6 million and a gross state product impact of $29.7 million Despite their importance, rural, regional and remote (RRR) airports face a number of serious challenges.

A process of deregulation and devolution of federal government responsibility has left their management

and ongoing development largely in the hands of local governments, which often lack the financial and human resources to fulfil this role in a sustainable manner. The Australian Airports Association (2012) outlines that regional airports are facing difficult challenges – with almost 50 per cent of regional airports operating at a loss. The aviation industry globally has seen tremendous volatility over the last three decades, and Australian regional aviation has been no exception, with a number of operators going out of business – leaving airports without carriers – and new pressure being brought to bear on airports that are increasingly being forced to compete with one another to attract airlines that aggressively scout for the most advantageous deal.

Aviation and economic growth The 2012 report by Deloitte Access Economics on the economic and social contribution of Australia’s airports estimated that regional airport (major regional, regional and remote) operators contributed $329 million to the economy, with $113 million in wages and $216 million in gross operating surplus.

Australia’s desert airstrips are vital for the transportation of goods and services to rural and remote communities

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regional airports

Coffs Harbour Airport. Image Š Stilgherrian

At the state level, the Local Government Association of South Australia (Hudson Howells, 2012) provided a more fine-grained analysis on individual airports to estimate the socio-economic impacts. In this review, five regional airports were evaluated. Mount Gambier Airport, the largest of the regional airports, provided employment for 233 employees, as well as a value of air transport at $5.6 million and a gross state product impact of $29.7 million. Queensland (2013) has also recently recognised the significance of regional airports with respect to state development priorities around resources, tourism, construction and agriculture; however, very little data is produced to support this claim.

What is the relationship between economic growth and regional airports? In our analysis, we have evaluated BITRE traffic data of 97 regional airports across all states of Australia over the period of 1985â&#x20AC;&#x201C;2013. What we found most interesting in this data was that, unlike most other regions (such as Europe), regional aviation appears to be continuing to grow sharply in Australia, with a passenger number growth of more than 330 per cent over the analysed 28 years.

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While the focus of many commentators has been on the strong growth of very remote airports (as mentioned earlier in the piece, mainly related to FIFO activities), our analysis shows that the growth was, in the long run, even stronger for the non-remote regional airports in Australia, as shown in Figure 1. Given the strong growth in population, particularly in remote areas, such passenger growth is not surprising, assuming economic activity has grown at a similar magnitude.

As no research has been available on the impact of regional aviation on economic activity and vice versa, our research is a first on establishing that link for the regional airport context within Australia. By relating the passenger data of 91 Australian regional airports to aggregated total income tax levels (as a proxy for economic activity) in the respective local government authority areas over the period of 1985/86 to 2009/10, we found a strong impact of passenger numbers on the taxable income of the respective local government areas (particularly in remote and very remote areas) with a lag of one financial period (year). More intriguingly, our results further suggest that this relationship is bidirectional, meaning that the

regional airports

Hamilton Island airport. Image © Jenny Mealing

economic growth, particularly in the remote areas of Western Australia, has also positively influenced the demand for regional aviation, and hence has driven the passenger numbers of regional airports.

Hudson and Howells (2012). ‘Regional Airports Project for the

Our findings clearly demonstrate that regional aviation and regional business/economic activity do not only go hand in hand, but also very much depend upon each other.

Any policy recommendation that supports regional aviation will also stimulate economic growth and vice versa.

regions in Europe and Australia’. Transportation Journal, 52 (3),

References

Local Government Association of South Australia’.

Merkert, R. and Hensher, D.A. (2013). ‘The importance of completeness and clarity in air transport contracts in remote

365–390.

Queensland (2013). ‘Economic Directions Statement Queensland Airports 2013–2023’. Department of State Development, Infrastructure and Planning.

Regional Aviation Association of Australia (2011). RAAA

Australian Airports Association (2012). ‘Australia’s Regional

submission to the Australian Productivity Commission Economic

Airports: Facts, Myths and Challenges’. Canberra.

Regulation of Airport Services Public Inquiry.

Bureau of Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Economics

Regional Aviation Association of Australia (2014). RAAA submission

(BITRE) (2013). ‘Air transport service trends in regional Australia’

to the New South Wales Legislative Council Standing Committee

(2013 update). Australian Department of Infrastructure and

on State Development Inquiry into Regional Aviation Services.

Transport. Canberra.

Deloitte Access Economics (2012). ‘The Economic and Social Contribution of Australia’s Airports’. Australia Airports Association.

Donehue, P. and Baker, D. (2012). ‘Remote, rural, and regional airports in Australia’. Transport Policy, 24, 232–239.

THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21 • 199

corporate profile

A TRULY ‘NATIONAL’ GOVERNMENT SUPPLY CHAIN Blackwoods is renowned as having been an integral and long-standing part of Australia’s industrial landscape for 135 years.

Blackwoods continues to provide solutions to help businesses and government departments maintain, run and grow their operations safely and efficiently.

B

lackwoods learned that customer needs and expectations are as varied as their product range, but the aim is clear: customer satisfaction through dynamic and innovative sales and service solutions.

By investing in people, technology and resources, Blackwoods makes it easier for all levels of government to do business with them. That includes an unsurpassed product range, a world-class website and superior delivery performance – all working to support the important work of councils, defence, education, health, police emergency services and all other government functions.

Integrated supply chain solution Having the right product in the right place at the right time is the basis of any sustainable supply chain methodology.

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Blackwoods has had over a century of finetuning its supply chain to support the needs of customers – wherever they may be. They do more than just sell highquality products; the backbone of their reputation relies on Blackwoods being a truly effective logistics-focused organisation.

Deliveries from Blackwoods are fast and accurate and you can choose the delivery option that best suits your needs; they deliver what you want, when you want it.

When it comes to servicing the most remote parts of this

corporate profile

country, that is where Blackwoods is at its strongest. The company’s effective distribution system ensures that every branch in the country is stocked with the local inventory you need.

To enable Blackwoods to proactively offer local solutions, and to promptly respond to the frequent demands of industry, the distribution centres play a vital role in supporting the branches strategically located in the regions. This ensures that nowhere in Australia is out of reach for Blackwoods. This is reinforced by Blackwoods’ investment in bricks and mortar in locations like Karratha, Broken Hill, Alice Springs, Roma, Onslow, Port Hedland, Kununurra and Newman to ensure any location is within their reach.

YEARS

OF DELIVERING ALL YOUR WORKPLACE NEEDS

Blackwoods Lidcombe Sydney, circa 1966

Wherever there is a need for a dependable, reliable and consistent supply of products, the Blackwoods national network ensures goods are where they are needed.

Blackwoods is continually assessing the geographical need of the ever-changing Australian industrial landscape, and reacting accordingly by opening branches to service the new emerging footprint.

Blackwoods has been servicing the industrial landscape of Australia for 135 years, and will continue this remarkable achievement well into the future, wherever Australians have a requirement to purchase ‘All Your Workplace Needs’.

Karratha’s new landmark Karratha, located 1535 kilometres north of Perth, has emerged as the administration centre for the Pilbara region. To service the expanding demand for industrial supplies, Blackwoods has built one of the most exciting and environmentally-friendly industrial buildings in the country – one that sets the standard for others to follow.

This is a fine illustration of Blackwoods’ commitment to servicing every area of Australia, no matter how remote it is.

This branch is in the process of gaining the credential of the first five-star energy rated green industrial building in Western Australia, and only the third in Australia.

The feedback from the locals and industrial customers of the region was very positive, with many saying they didn’t believe someone would build a building this size and capacity in a town like Karratha. The building has a number of sophisticated components and systems to achieve a remarkably high energy efficiency, in addition to the environmentally considerate construction methodology. While 60 points are required to achieve a

Blackwoods Alexandria, Sydney, circa 1961

5 Star rating from the Green Star Industrial V1 technical manual, the building has the potential to accumulate a total of 65 points.

Blackwoods has an expectation to be at the forefront of supply meeting demand, as Karratha will become a regional city shortly; it’s the emerging hub for the Pilbara, and a lovely area.

THETHE AUSTRALIAN AUSTRALIAN LOCAL LOCAL GOVERNMENT GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK YEARBOOK EDITION EDITION 21 21 • 201 •Y

disaster + flood risk

Council ingenuity saves lives and sets benchmarks MyRoadInfo is the only system of its kind in Australia.

A

collaboration between eight Northern Rivers councils, MyRoadInfo is a cutting-edge website providing up-to-the-minute road information for motorists from their smart phones, tablets or computers.

The web developers recognised that drivers are not confined by local government boundaries, and nor should councils be.

Earlier this year, the website won ‘Best Crisis Communication’ at the 2014 Government Communications Australia Awards in Melbourne, coming hot on the heels of winning a Local Government NSW RH Dougherty Award last year.

Lismore City Council IT Manager Garth Hayhurst says it was not only an honour to take home state and national accolades, but it was also confirmation that the model has the potential to be used right around Australia.

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Lismore City Council IT Manager Garth Hayhurst said it was not only an honour to take home state and national accolades, but it was also confirmation that the model has the potential to be used right around Australia ‘The software has already been licensed by Mid North Coast councils, with negotiations now taking place with councils in western New South Wales,’ says Hayhurst.

‘MyRoadInfo provides information from the Pacific Highway right down to the smallest country road; and countless times, we know it has played a huge role in the safety of those people living in our communities.

disaster + flood risk

Having accurate information 24/7 is what we are achieving, and it has really shown us what we can do as local councils when we put our differences aside and work together with a clear goal for our community’s wellbeing in mind.’

Like many good ideas, the MyRoadInfo website was born of necessity.

During a major flood event in 2009, Lismore City Council’s helpline was inundated with calls from people in neighbouring council areas trying to get home safely.

It became evident that a service that bridged Council boundaries was essential, and the member councils of the Northern Rivers Regional Organisation of Councils (NOROC) decided to pool resources and work together.

‘We realised that there was a genuine need for people to get from A to B, and have information that was timely and accurate at their fingertips,’ says Hayhurst.

‘Flooding, road closures, accidents, delays – it’s all on the one site. It updates with road information from all councils, as well as the RMS, so it’s an incredible road safety tool.’

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disaster + flood risk

Images: Historic flood images from the Northern Rivers region.

MyRoadInfo was created with the knowledge that people on the ground have the best information in a crisis MyRoadInfo uses a single web address (www.myroadinfo.com.au) that provides access to all MyRoadInfo sites – making it perfect for use as a nationwide interface.

‘Having the same web-based system across the country would make interstate travel that much smoother for your average holiday-maker or tourist – you would always be looking at the same interface, even though each site would be regionally managed,’ explains Hayhurst.

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MyRoadInfo was created with the knowledge that people on the ground have the best information in a crisis. As well as automatically updating with RMS information, council staff can remotely update road status information in the field using their smart phones and tablets.

In times of disaster, when people require accurate information in a heartbeat, MyRoadInfo is unmatched in its simplicity and functionality – for both the people updating the information, and those out on the road.

disaster + flood risk

Given the extremely high level of customer enquiries during a natural disaster, it also means that staff members who would normally be answering calls and relaying road information have more time to help those in evacuation centres or in need of immediate help on the ground.

Hayhurst explains that it also mitigates risk-taking, having been designed to err on the side of caution.

‘MyRoadInfo is unique in that it calculates all available road information, including multiple hazards on a single road, aggregates the information and provides the most conservative warning for motorists,’ Hayhurst says.

‘In our part of the world, the Northern Rivers region, we live with disasters year after year. People can be scared and panic during a major flood event, or take unnecessary risks trying to get home to their family or friends. What we always set out to achieve with MyRoadInfo was to make our community safer. All we want to see is local people alive, safe and well once the floodwaters recede.’

MyRoadInfo is unique in that it calculates all available road information, including multiple hazards on a single road, aggregates the information and provides the most conservative warning for motorists

THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21 • 205

corporate profile

FLOOD MITIGATION AND PREDICTION

I

n recent years, Australia and many other parts of the world have faced more extreme weather events. These events, coupled with increased industrial, agricultural and urban development on floodplains, have amplified strain on both physical and social environments.

Climatic extremes in the seasonally arid tropics are notoriously difficult to interpret and, hence, predict. The only rule that can be applied is that nothing is average. Communities living in these environments have adapted to a seasonal climate of long periods of negligible rainfall and moderate temperatures, followed by high temperatures, humidity and variable rainfall.

The unpredictability of extreme events hinders effective warning systems and relief, both during and after the events.

Through integration of soil composition, river-flow patterns, and real-time flood hydrological data, we accurately modelled the Central Queensland 2008–09 flood event that severely impacted the Bowen Basin coal-mining industry. Our study indicates that recent estimates of 1:100 events are not necessarily applicable to seasonally dry tropical settings.

Rather, the rainfall events fall within the uncertainty limits surrounding 1:50 floods.

The Emerald 2008 flood resulted from one catchmentscale, extremely intense rainfall event. By contrast, multiple localised events across pre-saturated catchments caused the 2011 flooding. These numerous smaller events, through a combination of timing, catchment topography, and land-use changes, culminated in flood peaks that caused considerable damage. The contrast between these two floods highlights how little is understood about the causes of extreme events.

C&R Consulting has incorporated years of research in observation and statistical analysis to produce the software package Monte Carlo Rainfall Simulator (MCRS) to assist in flood predictions. MCRS produces years of additional rainfall data similar to the original input data. In regions where rainfall data is poor, spatial interpolation techniques, such as SILO, can be used to create a base dataset. This software can also be used to analyse risk based on a strong probabilistic model, with significantly reduced uncertainties.

The recent flooding events throughout central and south-east Queensland, northern New South Wales and Victoria caused devastating damage, including: isolation of communities; loss of life (both human and animal); loss of income; damage to homes and businesses; and destruction of agricultural and mining infrastructure.

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C&R identified widespread inadequacies in approaches involving average recurrence intervals (ARIs) and average exceedance probabilities (AEPs). First, there is a lack of long-term rainfall and stream discharge data, and a paucity of rainfall, radar and river stations. Second, inappropriate modelling of datasets is used because of a lack of understanding of rainfall scale and distribution. Third, many modellers and planners do not accept qualitative or nonofficial records (i.e. landholders’ recorded rainfall and physical flood-height indicators).

From our experience, we advocate the need for a regionally appropriate, whole-of-system approach to understanding extreme floods. Addressing all relevant environmental and infrastructure parameters that may impact extreme climatic events in flood modelling is crucial to improving predictive models. Integration of local knowledge is the key to timely warnings and response. In the Emerald 2011 event, C&R’s knowledge of catchment dynamics, flow velocity and rainfall timing, and our willingness to integrate non-official data, allowed for accurate flood-height prediction to within a few centimetres, four days in advance of official reports.

The consequent evacuation of suitable areas significantly diminished adverse human impacts.

Accurate flood prediction in the seasonally arid tropics requires more appropriate statistical treatment of nonregular climatic datasets, and an understanding that use of ARIs and AEPs is largely inappropriate. To verify the methodology, C&R will undertake a detailed calibration study of Smoky Creek catchment, Isaac River, and the Fitzroy Water Resource Plan area. There are two mines within this catchment (Broadlea Coal Mine and Isaac Plains Coal Mine), and consequently this verification exercise will have significant implications for immunising Central Queensland coal mines against flooding events.

Key personnel of C&R Consulting and their areas of expertise Dr CHRIS CUFF

Mr MATT KNOTT

Director Geochemist, Mineralogist Soil and water chemistry and their interactions. Chemical and hydrological modelling.

Aquatic Biologist Estuarine & freshwater ecology, environmental assessments & monitoring, aquatic ecosystems surveys.

Dr CECILY RASMUSSEN

Mr REECE FRASER

Director Geomorphologist, Palaeogeomorphologist Geomorphology and palaeogeomorphology analysis of groundwater flow

Geomorphologist Natural Systems Analyst Physical evaluation and modelling of earth and water systems.

Dr MAREE CORKERON

Mr STEPHEN WEGNER

Sedimentologist Stratigraphy, coal geology, depositional processes and palaeoenvironments, basin evolution.

Geologist, Mineralogist Petrographic analysis, clay mineralogy, structural geology, geotechnical assessments

Dr ANGELA BUSH

Mr BEN CUFF

Hydrogeologist Hydrogeochemical analysis of groundwater & surface processes, impacts of resource development.

Natural Systems Analyst Soil water & vegetation assessment, hydrogeomorphic modelling of earth, atmosphere & water systems.

Dr IAIN FAICHNEY

Ms SIAN KENNARE

Sedimentologist Depositional systems analysis, hydrological modelling, petroleum exploration.

Groundwater Hydrologist Mine environmental management, management systems auditor, groundwater hydrology, coastal and river systems hydrology.

Dr JASMINE JAFFRÉS

Mr SAM GILLESPIE

Natural Systems Analyst Physical & geochemical modelling of earth, atmosphere & water systems.

Physicist Hydrological numerical modelling, thermodynamic and geochemical groundwater modelling.

C&R Consulting (Geochemical & Hydrobiological Solutions) Pty Ltd • • • • • • • • •

Freshwater Ecology Water Chemical Models Climate Change Assessment Fluvial Geomorphology Flood Modelling & Mitigation GIS/GRV Mapping Coastal Ecology & Dynamics Terrestrial Ecology/Surveys & Assessment Stratigraphy & Sedimentology

• • • • • • • • •

Soil/Water Contamination & Remediation Forensic Environmental Investigations Hydrogeomorphic Assessment Geological Quarry Assessments Marine Ecology/Geoscience Chemical Coal Assessment UCG/CSG Investigations Petrography Mine Specific – EMP/RVS/WMP/WBP

Ph: +61 (0) 7 47253751 | Fax: +61 (0) 7 47283424 | Web: www.candrconsulting.com.au | Email: info@candrconsulting.com.au 188 Ross River Road, Aitkenvale Q 4814 | PO Box 1777, Thuringowa Central Q 4817 | TOWNSVILLE/EMERALD/LONDON C&R Consulting’s solutions to environmental problems are based on GeoMimicry, working with, rather than against, the landscape, promoting solutions that are favourable to both the physical environment and the infrastructure that is essential to the efficient management of the industrial, agricultural and social network existing within that environment.

disaster management

Fire protection in local government buildings The importance of maintenance and emergency management

By Joseph Keller and Matthew Wright, Fire Protection Association Australia Why are fire safety requirements so varied, and how do I comply?

F

rom a Commonwealth Constitutional viewpoint, the regulatory requirements for fire safety in existing buildings across Australia may well be considered to reflect the colonial legacies of eight different ‘countries’. The 1901 Australian Constitution does not make any specific provision for establishing building or fire protection requirements, even for new buildings; and accordingly, this is left to individual states and territories to treat via their own legislation.

Add to this the layer of community expectation for local government buildings, and understanding the varied fire safety requirements in the range of existing buildings that may fall under the responsibility of local governments across Australia can be a daunting task.

Advances in nationally consistent requirements for the building industry first began to take shape in the late 1980s as part of micro-economic reforms pursuing increased productivity. This culminated in the development, publication and national adoption (by inter-governmental agreement) of the Building Code of Australia (BCA).

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Advances in nationally consistent requirements for the building industry first began taking shape in the late 1980s as part of microeconomic reforms pursuing increased productivity The BCA sets down many important principles of fire safety for much of the built environment; but the Code is not retrospective, and it only identifies the minimum requirements for the construction of new buildings. Each state and territory still has its own regulatory requirements associated with fire safety postconstruction in existing building stock.

This means that, while the BCA and associated standards applicable to new buildings can sometimes

disaster management

be used as a guide, there is no single, national or readily available rule book prescribing how existing building stock is to be maintained, or, where necessary, upgraded. Of further note is that in almost all jurisdictions, local governments are expected to have a role in primary enforcement activities to ensure that existing buildings are compliant and meet broad safety and building standards in the public interest associated with life, health, safety and amenity.

Difficulties executing these obligations in relation to buildings owned by local government may be further exacerbated by the fact that many local government buildings are public assembly sites that attract a higherrisk profile in relation to fire safety.

With all of that in mind, this article aims to consider some general fire protection concepts for assessment, maintenance and emergency management that may be administered by local government for local-governmentowned buildings. This article is not exhaustive and should not be relied on as expert technical advice.

Fire Protection Association Australia (FPA Australia) recommends consulting with the regulator in your state or territory for full clarification on requirements of any of the items discussed in this article.

Assessment â&#x20AC;&#x201C; do you have a plan?

Local governments should plan their approaches to their own buildings with a view to establishing leadership for the community. Without prescriptive guides, identifying a reasonable approach to fire safety in existing buildings is highly subjective; however, there are some guidelines at hand that should be used to refine what is reasonable, and to inform local government policy. These include, but are not limited to: 1. recognising and implementing the basic and broad objectives of delivering an acceptable level of life, property and environmental protection 2. categorising and prioritising the assessment and work on buildings based on risk levels 3. using current codes and standards applicable to new works as guidance to inform decision-making for upgrading existing building stock where necessary

Figure 1 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Fire system equipment performance over time, with and without maintenance.

Without prescriptive guides, identifying a reasonable approach to fire safety in existing buildings is highly subjective 4. ensuring that the fire protection maintenance requirements applicable to existing buildings are identified and routinely met 5. considering emergency management principles 6. establishing sound facilities management processes, and engaging other competent stakeholders where necessary to deliver expected outcomes.

It is impossible for local government to constantly monitor the compliance of all buildings within its jurisdiction; however, in relation to buildings owned by local government, without a plan or policy it is difficult to provide leadership and achieve compliance.

Why maintenance matters Fire protection measures that may be present in local government buildings and facilities can vary depending on building type, use or age. There are many different pieces of fire protection equipment and systems installed in buildings; however, they are generally categorised

THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21 â&#x20AC;˘ 209

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as being either active or passive. Active measures can include automatic sprinkler systems, smoke detection and alarm systems, portable fire extinguishers or fire hydrants. Passive systems include elements such as fire and smoke doors, fire-rated walls and floors, and penetration protection. What is important to recognise is that all of these elements are expected to function as parts of a holistic, overall fire protection strategy.

This strategy will only be realised if installed systems and equipment are maintained in a fit-for-purpose state, and actually operate when a fire incident occurs.

Maintenance aims to ensure that installed systems and equipment are still achieving required levels of performance over time (see Figure 1).

In any building, the best fire protection results are achieved through a combination of early warning and suppression. In local government buildings used for public assembly, these elements are even more critical due to the variations in occupant characteristics. Early warning means reducing the time it takes to identify fire and respond. Suppression time is the time it takes to limit fire size and smoke development, and also, ultimately, extinguish the fire.

The critical factor in guaranteeing the best results is maintenance – or what are sometimes referred to as ‘servicing’ or ‘inspect and test’ activities. The maintenance requirements for fire protection systems and equipment in Australia are largely covered by Australian Standard AS 1851–2012 ‘Routine service of fire protection systems and equipment’. This all-new standard is close to being accepted in all states and territories in Australia, and provides a simpler but still rigorous and cost-effective approach to fire system maintenance over its predecessor, AS 1851–2005.

Benchmarks for servicing, however – such as AS 1851–2012 – are only ever as good as the individuals doing the work. This is where managers of local government facilities must be particularly diligent. Like any other building owner, local councils must ensure that individuals tasked with inspecting and testing such systems are trained and competent. In addition, there is a critical need to be sure that the businesses employing these service technicians hold the appropriate

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FPA Australia recommends that all building owners choose FPAS accredited individuals and recognised businesses wherever possible professional insurances, and that the results of inspecting and testing fire protection systems and equipment are clearly recorded and reported. Where non-conformances or defects are identified, building owners are responsible for addressing them to ensure that system or equipment performance is not compromised.

In July 2013, FPA Australia introduced the first voluntary national accreditation scheme for fire protection professionals and the businesses that support them.

Individuals who have achieved qualified accreditation status under the Fire Protection Accreditation Scheme (FPAS) are guaranteed to have undertaken the necessary units of competency required for the work they are undertaking, as well as holding relevant industry experience. Businesses recognised under the scheme have committed to ensuring that all of their technicians gain accreditation and have also signed the FPA Australia code of practice, which ensures minimum professional insurances and other professional requirements.

FPA Australia recommends that all building owners choose FPAS-accredited individuals and recognised businesses wherever possible.

Emergency planning and local government facilities management Even if an existing building has appropriate, compliant and maintained fire safety systems and equipment installed, emergency planning that responds to these installations and considers the occupants and use of the building is critical to success regarding fire safety.

disaster management

Responsibility for emergency management descends in hierarchy from state regulators to local governments, and from there to facilities and building managers in each local municipality. Every local government should have an emergency response plan that is created in consultation with local emergency response agencies.

Similarly, each facility should have its own emergency management plan, the requirements of which are set out by the Australian Standard 3745, ‘Planning for emergencies in facilities’. The Standard states that the following should be taken into account when devising an emergency plan: • the size and complexity of the facility • fire engineered or life safety features of the facility • security systems, procedures and protocols • the number and nature of occupants and visitors • the hours of occupancy.

It is highly likely that public buildings will have transient visitors who will be unfamiliar with the location and operation of fire protection systems and equipment in the facility, and who are unlikely to have an understanding of the appropriate emergency exit procedures for the site. In addition, the range of potential visitors to public local government buildings, such as hospitals or sports and recreation facilities, makes emergency planning even more critical. Occupants may be of varying ages, have different levels of English language comprehension, have varying levels of ambulant movement, or have other impairments, such as vision or hearing difficulties, impacting on their response to an emergency situation.

Facilities managers operating local government facilities must be highly cognisant of these factors, and must be engaged with the requirements of relevant standards, such as AS 3745–2010. Most importantly, facilities and building managers operating public buildings must understand that the creation of their emergency planning should be strongly focused, not just on the type of building and its safety features, but also on the types of likely emergency response from brigades, paramedics, staff and the individuals likely to frequent the building.

Any unique or varying needs that could impact the effectiveness of any emergency evacuation should be identified, and responses tailored accordingly.

Beyond buildings – some further considerations This article has focused on fire protection in local government buildings, and has not touched on local government responsibilities with regard to land management and bushfire. It is worth noting that local governments around Australia administer vast tracts of land, including recreational parks and national park and wildlife areas. These have unique fire requirements that could easily take an entirely separate article to cover.

Another important consideration regarding local government facilities is the likelihood of these being used as public meeting points or emergency shelters in fire and other emergencies. In these instances, many people may converge on local government facilities for shelter or for information; and, again, the importance of best practice emergency planning and evacuation procedures, coupled with the highest standards of fire protection system and equipment maintenance, must be realised.

While technological innovation and the refinement of standards continue to improve fire safety outcomes in the built environment, the management of human behaviour in fire situations is the hardest element to predict. It is for this reason that councils and local government administrators must ensure that they adopt a ‘people-focused’ approach to fire and emergency planning in public facilities, while also guaranteeing that only trained and competent individuals are engaged to service and maintain lifesaving fire protection measures in these important public facilities.

Fire Protection Association (FPA) Australia is the peak technical and educational fire safety association in Australia. The Association advocates positive change in order to deliver improved fire safety outcomes for the community. For more information about the Fire Protection Accreditation Scheme (FPAS), visit www.fpaa.com.au/fpas.

For general enquiries, call 1300 731 922.

THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21 • 211

corporate profile

KEEPING YOUR TOWN SHIP-SHAPE

Several councils around Australia have made the switch from petroleum-based lubricants, protectants and cleaning products to Lanotec alternatives and are recognising the benefits.

Back in 1998, Lanotec made a commitment to developing a range of naturally derived products to help businesses protect their staff’s health and the environment, while rivalling the performance of products already being used.

B

ack then, environmental and workplace health and safety considerations were becoming more important when buying products. They are much more important considerations today. The range is made right here in Australia for the Australian climate, giving Lanotec’s customers a huge advantage – that it simply works!

Due to the versatility of the Lanotec range, councils are able to drastically reduce the amount of consumables

212 X • THE • THE AUSTRALIAN AUSTRALIAN LOCAL LOCAL GOVERNMENT GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK YEARBOOK EDITION EDITION 2121

they currently use, which in turn cuts down on paperwork and MSDS sheets. Below is a brief description of Lanotec products suitable for councils across Australia to assist with reducing asset replacement costs, reducing consumable costs and reducing environmental impact.

General Purpose Liquid Lanolin is an all-round corrosion inhibitor, light lubricant and penetrant. From tools to padlocks and hinges, Lanotec General Purpose protects and preserves, and doesn’t wash off, giving asset and maintenance managers confidence and significantly decreasing replacement costs. Being non-conductive to 70 kilovolts, General Purpose can also be used to protect electrical and electronic components such as airconditioning units and external lighting systems.

Lanotec General Purpose is moisture- and fertiliserresistant, making it ideal for gardening equipment such as lawn mowers, trimmers and pruners. Other uses include the rejuvenation of leather, vinyls and plastics, and general corrosion protection.

Timber Seal PLUS is now widely used by councils for the protection and rejuvenation of rough-sawn timber structures such as boardwalks, bridges and jetties. It is the ideal product for environmentally sensitive areas such as around waterways and native habitats. Timber Seal PLUS weatherproofs timber and prevents splitting, drying, cracking and rotting, while maintaining the natural look of the timber. A major benefit of Timber Seal PLUS for councils is that each time it is reapplied, less product is required, giving cost savings over time.

corporate profile

Type ‘A’ Grease is lanolin in its natural form. Like the other lanolin products, the grease is registered as foodgrade, is non-conductive to 70 kilovolts and has resistance to moisture, acid and salt. It is an anti-seize, rubber grease, nozzle dip, a soft seal gasket and lubricant. A perfect complement to Timber Seal PLUS, Type ‘A’ Grease can be used on base plates, bearers and endgrains, as well as to lubricate screws and threaded nuts and bolts before assembly. It is also very effective for preventing corrosion and the seizing of manhole covers and access pits.

Citra-Force is an industrial-strength, water-soluble cleaner and quick break degreaser, suitable for commercial and domestic use. It is compatible with all waste-water treatment systems and clean down bays. Citra-Force removes bitumen overspray, line-marking paints, oil, carbon, grease, glues and adhesives. Citra-Force is ideal for cleaning barbecues and workshop floors, and removing scum lines from swimming pools. The real benefit is having one product that can be diluted with water for most, if not all, council cleaning needs with a pleasant citrus smell – it just makes things smell clean!

To further discuss the benefits to your council, Lanotec has a national team ready to help you start saving money today.

For more information, visit the Lanotec website on www.lanotec.com.au, email info@lanotec.com.au, phone 07 3373 3700 or freecall 1800 LANOTEC.

THETHE AUSTRALIAN AUSTRALIAN LOCAL LOCAL GOVERNMENT GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK YEARBOOK EDITION EDITION 21 21 • 213 •Y

corporate profile

THINK LOCAL, ACT LOCAL, BUY LOCAL: THE GREEN GOVERNMENT SOLUTION

T

he political adage ‘think global, act local’ has never been more apt, in an age where global competition for resources results in increasing environmental and social consequences. Local governments are traditionally the primary agents for direct action in communities, and now many find themselves at the helm of global trends as they promote environmentally sensitive, locally sourced jobs and projects.

In partnership with Environmental Protection laws, local governments are at the vanguard of reducing impact on the natural environment, while supporting community development. A good local government is evident in the streets and business centres of the shire: enticing community areas; comfortable, accessible seating in green spaces; and environmentally aware initiatives like bush regeneration and recycling programs.

The future of communities is always local Forward-thinking businesses are responding with environmental solutions to the increasing demand from local governments for products that can withstand the tough demands of urban use. Communities want aesthetic, functional design for their commonplace products, such as outdoor furniture, planters, and litter or recycling bins. The Container Connection is an industry leader for high-quality design that aligns the values of local manufacturing with the vision of progressive social planning.

Working in partnership with leading companies such as Energex, the Sydney Vivid Festival 2013 and QANTAS, The Container Connection negotiates the intersecting challenges of budget, function and vision. This experience has informed the company’s use of outdoor furniture and living greenery to create dynamic social spaces that invite community interaction. Leading on from this is the extensive variety of litter management solutions (informed from work with QANTAS, Monash and Deakin Universities) to ensure your community spaces encourage environmental responsibility and ownership.

Does your office wear a green heart on its sleeve?

Green retrofits of office spaces are an easy way to demonstrate the value of environmentally sensitive design.

The Container Connection has helped offices gain Green Star points by using plants with their ‘smart’ planters.

Shockingly, it is internal air pollution from the emissions of many modern materials that is often higher than outdoor 214 • THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION X • THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 2121

Coral Seater, public space installation – Japan

air contaminated from fossil fuels. Using the natural air purification process of plants comes with aesthetic and morale-boosting benefits, as well. This is backed up by research from the University of Technology (UTS) Sydney.

Office culture is also influenced by design. Well laidout seating and clearly marked litter management stations are simple ways to demarcate the functions of different areas and direct people to the proper use of the space. By sourcing Australian-owned and -manufactured products, you access readily available parts, on-time deliveries, exceptional product warranty and market competitiveness based on quality. The Container Connection is uniquely positioned to help local governments respond to global trends with local solutions.

Sit And Breathe Easy With The Container Connection Enliven your workplace atmosphere and set the stage for social spaces with our distinctively designed planters and furniture.

• Start conversations with inviting, well designed seating • Purify the air using strategically placed planters • Boost morale with fun, well designed communal spaces The Container Connection brings people and the environment together through smart design and function. Our products are manufactured using recyclable material, so you can sit and breathe easy.

A Great Australian Company For 25 years, The Container Connection have partnered with leading companies, manufacturers and universities to bring you the latest in design and technology.

Our products: • Are Australian made and owned • Are manufactured to the highest global export standards • Use less carbon miles • Are all manufactured in recyclable material • Are available in recycled material upon request.

Sub-Irrigated Sub-irrigation helps to maintain your plants for longer, and consumes up to 60% less water than traditional planters. Benefits include; extended water cycles, less maintenance saving you time and money while promoting healthier plants and the environment.

Shape Your Environment Re-energise your workspace with our funky furniture and smart sub-irrigated planters. The Container Connection will work closely with you to find smart, cost effective solutions for your commercial spaces. Enquire now to see our full product range.

Brisbane

Melbourne

Perth

Sydney

Adelaide

New Zealand

P : 07 3712 0466 P : 02 9624 4114

P : 03 9764 1080 P : 08 8336 3066

P : 08 9309 2442 P : 04 939 6666

www.container connection.com.au

planters, litterbins + furniture

environment, energy + sustainability and sustainability

AFFORDABLE, SUSTAINABLE SOLUTION FOR QUALITY LANDSCAPE AND CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS

B

enedict Industries continues to set new standards in quality, service and sustainable product offerings.

Benedict has been a privately owned and operated business for 48 years, and is widely recognised as one of the largest producers and resellers operating in the quarrying and recycling markets in the Sydney region.

Now operating from six quarry sites and four recycling facilities scattered throughout the Sydney region, Benedict offers the complete package.

Benedict’s recycling facility, located at Chipping Norton, is capable of accepting construction and demolition waste streams and processing them back into engineered construction materials suitable for use in the marketplace. It is estimated that Benedict Recycling converts 90 per cent of these waste streams, normally destined for landfill, into saleable and workable materials.

The unique opportunity presented to the Benedict group, through their ability to utilise processed recycled materials in conjunction with natural quarried materials, gives Benedict the ability to design and manufacture certified, sustainable products for the landscape, civil and construction industries, and enables them to extend and

maximise the natural reserves at their quarries. This sets them apart from the competition.

Benedict’s EnviroSoil, GlassSand and BioRetention Filter Media are just a few examples of the results of continued focus (since 2005) on developing sustainable markets for products made from or using reclaimed/recycled materials. The uptake of these products by customers, and acceptance by regulatory authorities – including the Roads and Maintenance Service (RMS), local councils and Sydney Water – has not only been encouraging, it has also played a major part in their success.

200mm

100 mm

Typical depths shown.

For specific bioretention design details refer to engineer's details

400-600mm

Stormwater ponding

Benedict Bioretention TM Filter Media (M165)

FILTER MEDIA

“Benedict Washed TM GlassSand (GSMEDIUM)” Benedict No Fines TM Drainage Gravel (5mm grade) TRANSITION LAYER

Drainage to engineer's detail. Typically perforated pipe without sock.

DRAINAGE LAYER

Installation Note: The materials in this profile have been selected with consideration to their "bridging" properties.

Alternative materials may not be compatible. Filter fabrics are not to be used. Install so that there is a clear distinction between layers, do not mix layers.

Profile designed on principles as outlined in the Facility for Advancing Water Biofiltration (FAWB) Guidelines for Soil Filter Media in Bioretention Systems (version 2.01) March 2008.

BIORETENTION PROFILE 216 • THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION X • THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 2121

Benedict Industries currently supplies a wide range of customer segments, and has a reputation as a major supplier of waste recycling and product supply solutions for major infrastructure projects.

Benedict Industries Sales and Marketing Manager, Mick Williams, says, ‘Product development, with a focus on creating consistent, technically suitable materials that meet both industry and customer specification

environment, energy + sustainability environment, energy and

by combining recycled and natural materials, is the key to the successful development of new product lines.

While we recognise that these products may not be suitable for every project, we have also experienced many situations where projects have been over-specified and our solutions have provided significant cost savings to our customers’.

In an age where innovative recycling solutions are no longer an ideal, but a basic best business practice demanded by the broader community, Benedict Industries Director Ernest Dupere says, ‘Benedict’s extensive experience The three distinct layers clearly seen in the Benedict Bioretention Profile. in development and bulk supply of innovative and quality sustainable • Benedict Recycled Asphalt Sand (GASP20) products uniquely positions us to supply landscape and This product is a blend of washed recycled sand and construction projects across the Sydney Basin, help GlassSand made to conform to customer specifications. organisations create cost-effective solutions, and balance Benedict currently supplies thousands of tonnes per the technical requirements with our environmental needs for month to a number of Asphalt production sites in the future of our community.’

Sydney to be utilised in road construction.

Benedict recycled product initiatives • Benedict Recycled Concrete Sand (R32 and A32) Benedict currently produces blended concrete sand by combining natural reclaimed fine sand with Benedict GlassSand. The product is currently growing in demand and is supplied to many concrete plants across Sydney.

• Benedict Recycled Bedding Sand (BED/SA) Bedding Sand is produced and tested to the RMS, R11 pipe embedment specification. It is a blend of concrete and brick crusher dust and recycled screenings blended to meet specification. This material is suitable for bedding concrete pipes, and levelling under slabs, footpaths and driveways.

• Benedict Macarthur Loam (MACLOAM) Macarthur Loam was developed to extend quarry resources and to create a sustainable market for our recycled soil, produced at Chipping Norton. The material is a blend of natural premium soil and recycled soil, suitable for planting, lawn levelling and various other garden applications.

phone: 02 9986 3500 fax: 02 9986 3555 email: sales@benedict.com.au www.benedict.com.au

Completed Bioretention Basin, Redfern Perk, Minto.

Constructed by Co-ordinated Landscapes.

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environment, energy + sustainability

Green roofs and walls for Sydney’s local area Green roofs and walls provide multiple environmental and community benefits. Differing from traditional gardens, green roofs and walls help a variety of plants to grow and thrive on the top of buildings and on vertical walls, making them vital parts of sustainable cities. The City of Sydney is aiming to increase the uptake of green roofs and walls across its local area, with the Green Roofs and Walls Project.

The Australian Local Government Yearbook spoke with Lucy Sharman, Project Officer, about what green roofs could mean for our cities.

218 • THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21

Australian Local Government Yearbook (ALGY): It’s a common misconception that green roofs are merely rooftop gardens. Can you tell us why this is not so?

Lucy Sharman (LS): The key difference is the environmental performance of a green roof compared to a roof garden. For a rooftop garden to be considered a ‘green roof’, there needs to be significant green coverage in order to get the kinds of thermal insulation and environmental benefits that a green roof offers. A few pot plants on a roof may make a lovely landscaped area, but if it’s not contributing to cooling the building, slowing stormwater, and improving air quality, it’s simply something that looks great, but doesn’t contribute to the building or broader environment.

ALGY: Why should local governments consider green roofs for their buildings?

LS: For many reasons. For starters, there is a growing body of evidence that green roofs add to the commercial value of a property. Human beings are naturally drawn to greenery – it makes us feel better, improves the quality of the air we’re breathing and adds to our level of thermal comfort. If a building owner adds a green roof, they will be tapping into that strong desire we have to be closer to greenery – closer to nature.

environment, energy + sustainability

For commercial operators, one of the biggest expenses is the people in the building. Greenery and green roofs – particularly ones that are accessible – improve staff retention and productivity, both of which provide very real economic benefits to building owners and lessees.

Green roofs also make buildings more thermally efficient, particularly if the building is around six storeys or less. So not only is it more comfortable to be in a building with a green roof, your air conditioning and cooling costs decrease, making the building more energy-efficient.

ALGY: How can a green roof or wall be retrofitted to an existing building?

LS: The primary consideration is determining the structural integrity of your building and its ability to support the additional weight of a green roof. Lightweight (extensive) green roofs can weigh up to 150 kilograms per square metre, and green roofs with deeper soils (intensive) can weigh 350 kilograms per square metre or more.

Once you have determined the structural support available, then the main approach is to determine what you would like to use your green roof for. Do you want to provide habitat to support biodiversity? Do you want to use the space (accessible)? How you will use the space determines how the green roof should be designed. For example, if you’re interested in providing support for biodiversity, then it’s a good idea to design a roof that has water features as well as hollow logs and rockeries for the insects and invertebrates. If you want to cool the building, you might design a roof that can take more mature trees and plants, which create shade. If you want to encourage building tenants to use the outdoor space, you may want to put in community gardens or herb gardens for people to use – in which case, you’ll need deeper soils. There are lots of ways to include gardens on rooftops – the design is really only limited by your imagination. Green roof specialists can provide building owners with specialist advice about what sorts of green roof designs might best suit your building site.

The green roof protects the roof and waterproofing from direct sun exposure, and reduces fluctuations in temperature, which cause expansion and contraction of the roof and eventually cracking.

ALGY: The City of Sydney undertook a perception study to evaluate industries and the public’s understanding of and support for green roofs. What was the outcome?

LS: Interestingly, the public had quite a sophisticated understanding of the benefits of green roofs and walls.

They understood that green roofs provide habitat for biodiversity and for improving air quality, as well as looking beautiful. They were also prepared to pay more for the benefits that green roofs provide.

The study also allowed building owners to discuss any concerns they had with green roofs, including concerns about waterproofing and costs. This has been very useful, as the reality is that green roofs actually extend the life of a roof. The green roof protects the roof and waterproofing from direct sun exposure, and reduces fluctuations in temperature, which cause expansion and contraction of the roof and eventually cracking. In Germany, for example, green roofs extend the roof life by up to 40 years or more.

To assist building owners, the City of Sydney is currently drafting guideline documents on waterproofing for green roofs and walls to help building owners make an easier and more informed decision about waterproofing – so they can get the most out of their roof space.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 222 THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21 • 219

corporate profile

WHY SHOULD YOUR COUNCIL USE ENVIRONDATA WEATHER STATIONS?

I

f your council has ever had: •

complaints about odours from your waste water treatment plant

• issues with dust or odour from your landfill sites • to set exclusion zones for developers around council infrastructure • concerns with blue-green algae in your water storages • a need to monitor the water balance from its water storages • heat stress issues with outdoor workers • to monitor local industries of concern to your residents Then your council has experienced the need for accurate, local weather monitoring that can only come from your own on-site weather stations!

Urban encroachment We have all heard the stories: the land near a landfill or sewage treatment plant is sold to a developer cheaply, and the houses in the new estate are also cheaper due to the location. Once the residents are in place, however, the complaints about the nearby facility will start, demanding they close!

In order to protect yourself from these developments, you will need an exclusion zone, and the only way to accurately determine and defend this zone is to have accurate weather data from your site, including the wind movement and dispersion characteristics.

220 • THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION X • THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 2121

Dust and odour drift Neighbours complaining about dust and odour are the most common complaints received by councils about their landfill and sewage treatment operations. Environdata’s weather stations analyse the wind speed and direction each second, to determine the net movement of the wind, and sigma theta to show the dispersion characteristics.

This ensures accurate tracking of the air, dust and odour particles, allowing you to respond by proactively managing odour or dust issues before the complaints start, as well as to manage false complaints from residents, and submit reports with confidence.

corporate profile

Robust, Reliable & austRalian

Water monitoring Many reservoirs managed by councils across Australia are actively used for recreation; however, with the risk of bluegreen algae comes the need to monitor water temperatures and weather conditions to know when algal blooms are likely.

Recording rainfall and evaporation helps you to monitor water balance, forecast inflows, losses through evaporation and even if seepage is present in your facility. The old method of monitoring evaporation with a Class A pan is now superseded by the FAO56 Penman method, which is calculated in the weather stations.

Worker heat stress Another record summer has shown us the potential heat stress hazards that our outdoor staff face when working in hot, humid conditions. Environdata can program the Thermal Work Limit (TWL) calculations into their weather stations. TWL – from Curtin University in Western Australia – is an accurate way to determine when and how workers can work safely, ensuring you protect your staff, maintain productivity and minimise your risk.

Environmental reporting Government bodies are increasingly requiring tighter environmental reporting from landfills, transfer stations, wastewater treatment plants and pump stations across the country, with a specific focus on weather monitoring. It is imperative that a professional weather station is used to ensure accuracy, reliability and traceability to allow you to easily prepare and submit reports to meet your Environment Protection Authority licensing requirements.

The weather monitoring solution For all of your council’s weather monitoring needs, the answer is to install an accurate, reliable weather station from Environdata. Environdata Weather Stations Pty Ltd has been in operation for 32 years, and remains Australianowned and ‘Made in Australia’.

Designed to survive in Australia’s climate, using tiltdown 10-metre masts to meet the Australian Standards, specialised firmware to track wind movement, including sigma theta and FAO56 evaporation and rainfall monitoring, Environdata has a quality, robust, reliable and Australianmade weather-monitoring solution to suit your council.

Environdata’s Weather Stations have simple MODBUS connections to your SCADA, UHF telemetry links or SMS alerts, so you can get your weather data when you need it, how you need it!

ENVIRONDATA WEAThER STATIONS

Proudly Designed & Manufactured in Australia

Meet Australian Standards & Licence Requirements Monitor your Landfill or WWTP for Odour Drift Rainfall & FAO56 Evaporation for Water Balance Measure Heat Stress for Worker Safety Protect Council Infrastructure from Nearby Developments Connect to your SCADA through MODBUS SMS Alerts - Get Your Weather Data When You Need it!

www.environdata.com.au Call us on

07 4661 4699

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environment, energy + sustainability

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 219

despite the fact that green roofs have been used widely in Europe and North America for decades, it’s still a relatively young industry in Australia ALGY: What kinds of buildings are suitable for the installation of green roofs and walls?

LS: Almost any building can be retrofitted to take a green roof. Costs increase where the roof needs structural underpinning, or if the roof has a pitch of more than 10–15 degrees. Having said that, green roofs have been installed on very high pitches and on lightweight roofing structures – they are simply designed appropriately for the building and roofing needs.

ALGY: What types of barriers are there to widespread take-up of green roofs and walls?

LS: The key barrier is that it is often difficult for people to access accurate information about green roofs and walls – the way they should be designed, installed and maintained. Lots of people are currently interested in installing green roofs or green walls, but they’re just a bit unsure how to go about it. There are also gaps in more technical information, such as waterproofing standards. This is something that the City of Sydney is addressing through the development of waterproofing guidelines for green roofs and walls, and through a strong educational program.

Also, despite the fact that green roofs have been used widely in Europe and North America for decades, it’s still a relatively young industry in Australia. The installers and providers in Australia provide a great level of service and good products – but there just aren’t too many of them. This also affects the price, with costs for

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environment, energy + sustainability

green roof and wall installations still being relatively high in Australia compared to Europe or North America.

Other barriers that have existed in the past are starting to dissipate; for example, planning controls used to be non-existent for green roofs and walls, but are now much more common. We have a much better understanding of what sorts of plant species work the best on green roofs and walls, and we also understand what soil types and depths provide the best environment for healthy plants. So while some barriers still exist, the industry is strong, and evolving in a positive way.

ALGY: How do you expect the implementation of the Green Roofs and Walls initiative to impact on the City of Sydney’s energy consumption?

LS: In order to get the best possible benefits out of green roof and green wall technology, we really need to see a significant uptake in their use. Combined with our Urban Ecology Strategy and Greening Sydney Plan as we green Sydney, we should see marked reductions in energy consumption. We already have anecdotal evidence of street trees having been removed due to disease – that the lack of the shade they had offered has increased energy consumption in residential homes.

We will continue to do research in this area and monitor how the City’s Green Roofs and Walls Policy is having an impact on the City as a whole – not just in terms of energy conservation, but also the many other benefits green cover provides.

Benefits of green roofs and walls to existing buildings Air quality

Greenery on roofs and walls helps remove harmful pollutants from the air, keeping city air cleaner and healthier. They can also improve air quality inside the building.

Beauty

Green roofs and walls are beautiful. They can turn a drab wall or bitumen roof into a striking building feature.

Biodiversity

Green roofs and walls provide space for insects, reptiles and bird life to find water, food and shelter. Biodiversity is vital for a healthy urban environment.

Health

The human need to be around living plants is called ‘biophilia’. There are numerous studies showing the physical and mental health benefits that human beings experience as a result of being around growing plants.

Insulation

Green roofs and walls insulate buildings, reducing reliance on active heating and cooling, and reducing energy consumption.

Noise

Green roofs and walls insulate the building from outside noise, creating a quieter, more peaceful indoor environment.

Space

With green roofs and walls, previously unused space can be turned into valuable space for recreation, growing food, gardening etc.

Roof life

Green roofs have been proven to extend the life of a roof by up to 40 years. The green roof limits the roof’s exposure to sun and weather. It keeps roof temperatures more even, and minimises expansion and contraction from temperature changes.

Solar panels

Green roofs improve the efficiency of solar panels by keeping the surrounding temperature at an optimum level for solar panel efficiency.

Urban heat island effect

Heat from the sun is absorbed by the City’s hard surfaces and re-radiated out into the environment, leading to higher city temperatures. Green roofs and walls lower this urban heat island effect, making the city a more comfortable place to be.

Water

Green roofs slow and clean the rainwater run-off from buildings, helping waterways by reducing run-off and water pollution.

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environment, energy and sustainability + sustainability

IMPROVING THE BUILT ENVIRONMENT WITH WORLD-CLASS CAPABILITIES

SkyCool on Perth International Airport

F

or most of the first decade of this millennium, summers in Australia have been exceptionally hot.

Severe drought was widespread. As a result, air conditioning usage soared throughout the country. Power generators and the delivery networks were stretched to capacity, while many air-conditioning plants simply could not cope with the heat.

The summer of 2012–2013 was Australia’s hottest on record, with an average daily temperature of 28.6 degrees Celsius, and with Sydney recording a temperature of 46 degrees in the middle of January.

Depending on exactly how hot a workplace gets, the risks to workers can range from simply affecting productivity to causing a life-threatening reaction.

The WorkCover NSW Health and Safety Code of Practice 2001 advises: ‘The first step is to identify the sources of heat and cold.

You should look at the work environment, the plant used, and work processes and practices.

Thermal comfort is an important, but frequently overlooked, aspect of workplace health and safety.

According to Monash University, thermal comfort is defined as ‘a condition of mind which expresses satisfaction with the thermal environment’. In effect, thermal comfort is the ideal balance between air temperature, radiant temperature (temperature of roofs, walls et cetera), humidity, air speed, physical activity and clothing.

Standard metal roof measured at 87oC X • THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 2121 224 • THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION

REDUCE

OPERATIONAL COSTS IN IIN ND DO OO OR RS SP PO OR RTTS S FFA AC CIILLIITTIIE ES S C CO OM MM MU UN NIITTY YB BU UIILLD DIIN NG GS S LLIIB BR RA AR RIIE ES S O OFFFFIIC CE ES S

AND

IMPROVE HEALTH & SAFETY IN W WA AR RE EH HO OU US SE ES S W WO OR RK KS SH HO OP PS S D DE EP PO OTTS S

AND PROTECT THE ROOFS OF ALL BUILDINGS W Wiitthh tthhee iinntteerrnnaattiioonnaallllyy ppaatteenntteedd

S k y C o o l ssoollaarr pprrootteeccttiivvee ccooooll--rrooooff ccooaattiinngg..

CSIRO, Universities of Technology in Sydney, Queensland and Singapore have all recognised the powerful building cooling capabilities of SkyCool.

“T The special radiative properties means that a roof coated with SkyCool can cool interiors to just below or well below ambient on clear nights provided the roof has a reasonably clear view of the sky.” UTS. IInnssttaalllleedd oonn nneeaarrllyy 550000,,000000 ssqquuaarree m meettrreess ooff rrooooffiinngg,, S SkkyyC Cooooll hhaass bbeeeenn rroobbuussttllyy m %.. meeaassuurreedd ttoo ccuutt aaiirr ccoonnddiittiioonniinngg ppoow weerr nneeeeddss bbyy aa n naattiioonnaall aavveerraaggee ooff 4455% A Anndd oonn nnoonn--ccoonnddiittiioonneedd bbuuiillddiinnggss iitt kkeeeeppss tthhee iinntteerriioorr aatt oorr bbeelloow w eexxtteerrnnaall aam mbbiieenntt tteem mppeerraattuurree ddaayy aanndd nniigghhtt –– eevveenn w whheerree tthheerree iiss nnoo iinnssuullaattiioonn..

FFoorr ddeettaaiillss oonn hhoow w yyoouurr bbuuiillddiinnggss m maayy bbeenneeffiitt,, pplleeaassee vviissiitt www.skycool.com.au

SkyCool Pty Ltd Tel: 02 9477 4095

Email: info@skycool.com.au

environment, energy + sustainability

‘The effects of heat and cold on the body are influenced by environmental factors including: • air temperature – how hot or cold the surrounding air is

environment, energy and sustainability

In the three years to July 2011, there were 497 claims for workplace fatigue and heat stroke at a cost of $4.3 million.

• air movement – including air speed (or wind speed), and air circulation

In addition to health and safety aspects for workers in industrial buildings, key environmental factors can add considerable operating expense in air conditioned buildings:

• radiant heat – heat radiating from the sun, or emitted by plant, buildings, fixtures or processes.

• Solar heating is a primary source of excess heat in lowrise metal and concrete-roofed buildings.

‘Other things can magnify the effect of these factors. For example by themselves, high or low air temperature, or humidity, will not necessarily present a serious hazard at work. However, if they are present during strenuous physical work, or if the worker is required to wear heavy protective clothing, the potential for harm may be greatly increased.

• A metal roof can become two to three times as hot as the ambient air temperature.

• humidity – the moisture content in the air

‘Look at the workplace itself, and the plant in operation.

A tin roof, for example, can transmit considerable radiant heat in hot weather. Inadequate ventilation will increase the effects of heat caused by plant or processes.’ 1 The WorkCover guideline defines a safe internal working environment thus: ‘The combined effects of temperature, humidity and air movement can be described on a single scale. This is the effective temperature. Generally, an effective temperature between 18 and 24 degrees Celsius is considered satisfactory for most working situations.

‘Employers have legal responsibilities to implement riskcontrol measures to safeguard employees against harm arising from heat or cold while at work.’

226 • THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21

• Air conditioning can cost three to four times more in cooling than heating.

• Peak thermal loads stress air-conditioning plant, reducing their efficiency, shortening their effective lives and increasing maintenance requirements.

Typically, these buildings include social and sporting facilities, airports, shopping malls, warehouses, factories, libraries and offices up to three storeys with metal roofing.

Scientists at the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) and the Queensland University of Technology (QUT) Faculty for the Built Environment found that highly effective cool-roof coatings like SkyCool, with its combined thermal reflection and radiation properties, can cause more heat to exit the building than would otherwise enter through its roof. This results in a strong net cooling within the building with respect to the solar load on the roof. This effect is most pronounced in buildings where the roof is the dominant external surface.

THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21 • Y

environment, energy and sustainability

environment, energy + sustainability

Table 1 Measured SkyCool ENERGY REDUCTION

Operational Improvement

Charter Hall shopping mall in hot N.W. Aust.

31%

56 kWhr/m2/year

Woolworths 2002 trial * Queensland

47%

67 kWhr/m2/year

Woolworths 2010 trial * Queensland

53%

80 kWhr/m2/year

Westfield Mall - New South Wales

38%

85 kWhr/m2/year

Melbourne Airport – Victoria

41%

+ 16 auxiliary units decommissioned

Div. Of Westfarmers (tropical Queensland) *

51%

94 kWhr/m2/year

Department of Defence – DARWIN

61%

Multiple bases measured

Club Menai – South Sydney

37%

42 kWhr/m2/year

National average

45%

71 kWhrs/sqm/year

* Dual building trials providing parallel & pre-post rigorous measurements up to 2 years

In support of the extensive laboratory examinations

by UTS and QUT, the SkyCool cool-roof coating was subjected to a series of full-size building field trials of up to two years to account for the many variables that occur in the natural environment.

There is now a reliable body of independent and robust performance measurement data that demonstrates the universities’ findings of the high-energy saving capability of this technology, particularly for the patented SkyCool energy reduction coating. Table 1 outlines the directly measured air-conditioning energy savings in buildings ranging from Darwin to Melbourne. With increasing energy pricing, some property owners are finding their cool-roof investment returning in less than two years.

Further investigation by Lend Lease engineers found that cooling of this high calibre actually creates a microclimate, which envelops the entire building – making a

cool oasis in the middle of the urban heat island.

SkyCool is suitable for a wide number of applications.

Clients range from supermarkets and shopping centres, to farms and produce storage, to mining and manufacturing.

Councils and other government authorities include Casey Council, The University of Melbourne and Monash University, South East Water (several buildings) in Victoria, and the Department of Defence throughout Australia.

Headquartered in Sydney, SkyCool Pty. Ltd. is a company of the new millennium, formed specifically to bring the SkyCool heat reflective thermal cool roof coating to the world community. ‘We are very proud of the fact that SkyCool was developed in Australia and is attracting interest from around the world,’ said Rex Lehmann, Chief Executive Officer at SkyCool. Since its establishment, the company has had the opportunity to prove both the uniqueness and the roof-cooling effectiveness of SkyCool, from the tropical north of the country to the temperate zones 3000 kilometres to the south, and in South-East Asia.

It is the only cool-roof coating patented around the world.

NSW WorkCover – Work in Hot or Cold Environments, Code of Practice 2001, Chapter 4, page 10

1

SkyCool Phone: 02 94774095 Email: info@skycool.com.au www.skycool.com.au

Z • THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21

THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21 • 227

security

Bomb threat – justifying not evacuating

By Don Williams No-one knows how many bomb threats are received every month in Australia. It is known that not every threat results in an evacuation, nor does the discovery of an unidentified item always cause the shutdown of the site. So, on what basis does a manager decide whether or not to evacuate?

T

he use of a defined, defensible assessment process helps the relevant manager, be they chief warden, security, emergency or facilities manager, decide when to evacuate and when to let the site continue to operate. This article provides a brief overview of the principles that can be used to support the decision.

The argument ‘better safe than sorry’ is used to justify an evacuation every time there is an incident. This is particularly popular with emergency services personnel who do not have to face the consequences of the evacuation. An evacuation is not like a fire drill, during which people walk out of the building, get their names checked off and walk back in with minimum disruption.

Evacuation has serious implications, risks and real costs.

There is nothing ‘safe’ about moving hundreds or thousands of people in a manner they are not used to, unless they are being moved away from a hazard.

Evacuation in many sites requires walking down many flights of stairs, an undertaking that, given our ageing and widening society with an increased number of heart and other health conditions, should only be undertaken when necessary. Australian Standard 3745 (Planning for Emergencies) permits the use of elevators for incidents other than fire, but only a small proportion of the building’s population, usually those with mobility issues, can be accommodated in the time required. Evacuating 228 • THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21

people may expose them to other hazards, as it can lead to congestion and crush points at exits; this is particularly true of sporting grounds, shopping centres and other places of mass gathering. Once evacuated from the building, people need to be protected from weather, traffic and other hazards, and few emergency plans go beyond getting people out the door.

Many emergency plans do not provide alternative evacuation routes or assembly areas, and wardens are not always trained to decide which route to use and how to direct people to those routes. Some evacuation assembly areas are too close to the site for an explosive

security

hazard; so, even when evacuated, people are still at risk.

During evacuations, families can be separated, causing additional stresses. If there are health centres, aged care or child-minding centres on site, then a whole range of additional factors comes into consideration.

If an evacuation is initiated, the chief warden needs to be confident that all cooking fires, mechanical processes, Hazmat materials and other hazards have been made safe so that the act of evacuating does not create a bigger disaster than the initiating incident.

Also, the chief warden needs to be sure that that all secondary hazards (those items existing in the site that are normally safe until acted upon by an event like an explosion) are identified and, if possible, protected.

For organisations that hold sensitive information, a real concern is how to secure hard- and soft-copy information while evacuating. Such factors should be detailed in the site’s emergency plan.

In addition to the human costs of evacuating a site, there are significant financial costs. Evacuating in response to a bomb incident, such as an unidentified item, will usually result in the site being closed for three hours or more while the emergency services respond to the item. If the evacuation was in response to a threat where no related suspicious item was found, the relevant manager is probably going to be responsible for determining when and how the site will be reoccupied, again, probably after a few hours.

For performance, cultural or sporting venues, there can be significant costs in refunding tickets and rescheduling the activity. Similarly for universities, evacuating during exam time has costs related to resitting and resetting the exams. Retail outlets need to consider security during the evacuation to prevent theft during the mass movement of people and while the site is empty. Consideration of how the building will be reoccupied should be part of the emergency and security plans.

For government agencies, there is no profit motive; however, the interruption in delivering services to the community can cause significant disruption.

Managers who make decisions to evacuate should be aware of the implications and consequences of the decision. The issue becomes one of evacuating only when it is reasonable to believe a hazard is present. Just because a threat has been received, or an unidentified item is found, does not mean that there is a hazard.

Managers should be able to ascertain whether the perpetrator would have been able to do what they claim, or whether an unidentified item might be hazardous, given their knowledge of the site, awareness of current activities, control over public and secure areas, confidence (or not) in access control systems, ability to talk to front-of-house and other staff, ability to review CCTV and access control records, and ability to search any nominated areas.

The decision will then be made either that there may be a hazard, in which case an evacuation should be initiated, or that the threat does not reflect a real hazard, in which case business can continue as usual.

Some managers will always prefer to be ‘safe than sorry’ and to evacuate; they need to understand the consequences of the decision. Other managers who never evacuate because it is too much trouble or ‘they are always hoaxes’ also need to be aware of the potential consequences of that decision. In all cases, managers must be able to justify their decision based on a structured process.

Don Williams CPP RSecP holds qualifications in security management and security risk management. Don has provided professional managerial advice on security and strategic security analysis for over 28 years. He has a particular specialty in bomb safety and security and is the author of ‘Bomb Incidents – the Managers Guide’.

He is a member of ASIS International, the Institute of Explosives Engineers, the International Association of Bomb Technicians and Investigators, and the Venue Management Association. Don can be contacted at donwilliams@dswconsulting.com.au.

THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21 • 229

security

ENHANCE COMMUNITY SECURITY WITH VIDEO SURVEILLANCE

S

taying on top of legislation, public opinion and local crime statistics is critical in developing the right mix of security systems and public safety plans for each community. The legal obligation of local governments must be balanced with the need to foster community vitality through the provision of safe, accessible public places and spaces for its citizens. In determining the best approach, local councils are increasingly seeking input from security experts to help reduce the direct and indirect costs associated with damage to and loss of public property as a result of theft and vandalism.

Physical patrols, monitored alarms, access control, CCTV and visual surveillance are just some of the available security measures. In deciding which combination of security systems and strategies to use, local governments need to determine which methods will be most effective in combating specific challenges, being mindful that the solution chosen is viewed as a valuable use of rate-payer funds.

Safety versus privacy – the hot debate around surveillance With advances in technology and fears of increased street crime and anti-social behaviour, visual surveillance is an increasingly popular tool used by local governments, and one that is widely supported by the community. The ADT Secure Homes Report 2013 found that 55 per cent of respondents believe security cameras are an effective anticrime measure. Also, 72 per cent said they would feel safer with security cameras.

Visual surveillance systems, including CCTV, can offer fast response times and reduce false alarms, while

230 • THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION X • THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 2121

also providing comprehensive reporting and recording features. ADT Security’s video surveillance systems enable operators to view images from multiple cameras following alarm activation, dramatically increasing the likelihood of identifying the true cause of an alarm.

However, some members of the public still view video surveillance as an invasion of privacy. Therefore, it is important for local governments to consult with residents to help them understand the benefits of the system prior to implementation. This includes demonstrating how surveillance complements the full suite of a community’s safety initiatives, and the measures in place to respect and protect the privacy rights of all citizens.

In protecting the local community, property and people, schools, hospitals, local parks and community centres are important public facilities. Unfortunately, they are also attractive targets for thieves and vandals.

The damage and loss of assets from public property costs local governments millions of dollars every year.

ADT Security helps to protect government assets across Australia, using security solutions such as Grade A1 monitoring; intrusion alarm installation and other monitoring solutions; wired, wireless and IP-based alarms; CCTV surveillance and video management systems; and guard and patrol response – all with the ability to integrate multiple systems into a single platform.

For more information on the solutions available, please visit www.adtsecurity.com.au or phone 131 238.

education + training

The importance of training for elected members Local governance is a complex business, with myriad challenges faced daily by councillors. Local leaders are expected to be able to balance council rules, policies and procedures, while ensuring that the expectations of communities are met, and that high-quality, low-cost service is delivered.

N

ot only is it important for elected members to have an understanding of the basic functions of a council role, it’s also vital to keep up to date with trends, legislative changes and skills in order to ensure that your community is appropriately represented, and that council business is overseen in a strategic and effective manner.

Despite the breadth of knowledge required for an elected member to carry out their full range of duties, there is a surprising lack of training requirements for those who are employed in local government positions. Training courses are available for local government members who choose to further their education to enhance their roles, and councillors are urged to undertake as much training as possible; however, mandatory training is something that has not been implemented.

This lack of imposed learning can mean that councillors don’t fully understand their responsibilities, and can make costly misjudgements that take time and council finances to rectify.

In Victoria, councillor conduct reforms were made on 2 April 2014 with the introduction of the Local Government Amendment (Governance and Conduct) Bill, which proposed extensive changes to the Local Government Act 1989 to ensure proper conduct by elected councillors and to support good governance by councils. One change is the implementation of mandatory induction training after councillors’ election to clarify their role.

In New South Wales, the Independent Local Government Review Panel’s ‘Revitalising Local

232 • THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21

Government Report’, released in early 2014, recommended mandatory training for councillors as a means of improving the sustainability of local government.

Western Australia, too, is calling for compulsory training, with WA Local Government Association President Troy Pickard expressing concern that the complexity involved in councillors’ roles is not matched with training that equips the elected members to manage their responsibilities.

A new course for councillors in New South Wales is designed to help improve councillors’ skill sets to ensure they can effectively tackle the challenges with which they are faced. The Executive Certificate for Elected Members – to be piloted in November with project partners the Centre for Local Government at the University of Sydney, TAFE NSW, and Local Government NSW – was developed with support from the Australian Centre for Excellence in Local Government, and is the first course of its kind to be based on the new National Skills Package for Elected Members developed by the federal government.

ACELG Director Roberta Ryan said, ‘The course will help elected members to better understand their legislative responsibilities, and build their skills and capacity to have a positive and well informed impact on council decisionmaking. This will help ensure local governments have the leadership capability required to meet the needs of the community and to create productive, sustainable and inclusive local places for the future.’

education + training

MEETING THE INFRASTRUCTURE ASSET MANAGEMENT CHALLENGE

G

rowing importance is being placed on the life cycle costs associated with the operation, maintenance and renewal of physical assets. This has created the need for skills in the management of infrastructure such as roads, water supply, drainage and sewerage.

Legislation requiring local authorities to create and implement asset management plans for the physical infrastructure under their control has also added to the demand for specialists with asset management qualifications.

Recognising this need, the Institute of Public Works Engineering Australia (IPWEA) and the Centre for Pavement Engineering Education (CPEE) jointly developed a program for engineering and science graduates employed in local government and public works authorities in the emerging discipline of infrastructure asset management.

The CPEE/University of Tasmania asset management programs, together with courses on road and pavement

engineering, provide local government employees with access to a range of work-relevant postgraduate awards.

All of the CPEE courses, which are very practical, encourage direct application of the skills and knowledge acquired. The application of learnings to problems in the workplace is facilitated by the distance education format, which does not require attendance at a university for faceto-face lectures.

The four-unit Graduate Certificate and eight-unit Bachelor of Engineering Technology (Professional Honours) courses can be tailored to suit the needs of individuals wishing to update their knowledge or become more productive in the workplace. Technical staff can gain valuable qualifications in as little as 12 months, and be able to apply what they learn directly to their day-to-day activities.

To receive further information on these courses, email info@pavementeducation.edu.au.

Infrastructure Asset Management ●Graduate Certificate ● Bachelor of Engineering Technology (Professional Honours)

Accredited by by thethe University theseprograms programshave hasbeen beenjointly jointlydeveloped developed Accredited UniversityofofTasmania, Tasmania, these by by the Institute of Public WorksEngineering Engineering Australia Australia (IPWEA) to to meet thethe need the Institute of Public Works (IPWEA)and andCPEE CPEE meet need for enhanced technical skills thefield fieldofofpublic public works works Infrastructure for enhanced technical skills ininthe InfrastructureAsset AssetManagement Management

Core infrastructure units on:  Asset Management Fundamentals  Asset Management Practices  Financial Asset Management with a range of electives

Enhanced Opportunities These courses provide today’s Infrastructure Asset Management Specialist with the opportunity to expand their skills and knowledge and to gain recognition with a University postgraduate award.

Road Engineering & Construction

CPEE/University of Tasmania postgraduate programs also available

Infrastructure Asset Management

If you would like to study one of these exciting programs contact The Centre for Pavement Engineering Education Inc (CPEE): Phone (03) 9890 5155 info@pavementeducation.edu.au - www.pavementeducation.edu.au

THETHE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 2121 • 233 AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION •X

events

Local government events around Australia Victoria Governance by design: Local democracy in action

Cultural Planning in Local Government in Victoria

• When: 12 June, 9.30 am to 12 noon

• When: April–July

• Where: Melbourne, Victoria

• Where: Various locations statewide

• What: This conference aims to discuss what local democracy looks like in action now, and what those in the local government sector want it to look like in the future. In a time when the local government electoral system is being methodically reviewed, as well as the current disengagement of citizens in the political processes at all levels of government, this event is crucial for those in the sector. Panellists include Lyn Carson, Director of The newDemocracy Foundation, and the Hon. Dr Ken Coghill PhD, Associate Professor, Monash University and former Member of Parliament.

• What: This series of forums offers local government cultural development workers the opportunity for skills development in cultural planning, as well as the chance to share expertise and experience in the area. It also provides the first opportunity for local government councillors and professionals to share processes and standards in the sector across the state. For information on sessions and prices, visit mav.asn.au/events.

Working together with Timor-Leste: the next 10 years Conference and Expo

• When: 25–26 July • Where: Preston, Victoria • What: This expo celebrates over 13 years of activity by Australian governments, as well as local government friendship groups, aid groups and associations, and business and community groups that have worked with their Timorese counterparts in the endeavour to establish the new nation. This conference and expo is for all those interested in the future development of Timor-Leste, featuring keynote speakers, including Sr Agio Pereira, Minister of State and President of the Council of Ministers. Ticket prices vary according to category.

Visit timorlesteconference2014.com.au for more information.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 236 234 • THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21

conferences + events

conferences + events

A VENUE FOR ALL SEASONS

W

hen you arrive at The Meadows, you will be delighted by the outstanding facility with its contemporary design and superb city views.

The venue provides a great place to escape the gridlock of your office and concentrate on your business goals. With little effort, you can be located within pleasant surroundings – away from the hustle and bustle of your office, yet with everything at your fingertips.

Patrons booking a function can, at no cost, enjoy the benefit of race-naming through media coverage in the Herald Sun and massive coverage through Radio Sport National and the Sky Channel network.

The Meadows is the ultimate user-friendly, purposedesigned location for your conference, banquet, business breakfast, meeting, product launch or special event. The venue’s versatility enables it to stage events all year round using flexible, first-rate facilities.

The Meadows is the ideal venue to host your next gathering, be it business or pleasure.

• Great exposure for your company name.

• Reward employees by naming a race after them.

• Promote your product names.

Staff with years of experience in the hospitality industry ensure that the needs of guests are always met with the highest standards. Conferences will be professional, accessible, accommodating and affordable.

The Meadows’ chef will provide many delicious and affordable menu options for your conference or function; however, if you would like something a little different, he is happy to attend to your needs on a one-on-one basis to design a menu to suit your requirements.

Looking for something totally different for your staff or social club?

Looking for an extraordinary event for your team building function? You can do this in one afternoon by blending racing with your function. The function centre overlooks the race track and the views are sensational.

The Meadows hosts greyhound racing every Saturday night and every Wednesday afternoon. The venue offers you the opportunity to get involved in the fastest-growing sport at a spectacular venue via race-naming. All races are broadcast on Radio Sport National and telecast on the vast Sky Channel network throughout Australia.

The Meadows, 80 Northcorp Boulevard, Broadmeadows Victoria 3047; Just off the Western Ring Road Enquiries: Phone 03 9355 5222 | Fax 03 9355 5255 Or visit www.themeadows.org.au.

X • THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21 THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21 • 235

events

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 234

MAV Rural and Regional Planning Conference 2014

Human Resources Seminar

• When: 26–27 June

• When: 4 July

• Where: Chirnside Park, Victoria

• Where: Adelaide, South Australia

• What: With the theme: ‘Future proofing Regional Victoria – the journey of transformation’, this two-day conference invites planners, senior managers, chief executive officers, councillors and other associated professionals to attend and learn about regional and rural land use and planning practices. Presentations, workshops, masterclasses and even field trips are on offer at this event to share cutting-edge practices in rural and regional planning, equip professionals to plan for their municipality more efficiently, create a platform for innovation and change in land use, and more. For more information on the program and presenters, visit mav.asn.au/events.

• What: Targeting human resources and management professionals in the local government sector, this seminar aims to provide an overview of the contemporary practices in human resource management, with a particular focus on change management issues that relate to crossorganisational relationship and career coaching. This day features workshops, guest speakers and forums that provide ample opportunity for practitioners to network, and encourages professional development.

More information can be found at lga.sa.gov.au.

Organisational Culture

South Australia Build a Council Profile Using ABS Data

• When: 18 June • Where: Adelaide, South Australia • What: This one-day course is ideal for those in local government who want to expand on their knowledge of data, and who need to use their council’s or region’s data to produce evidence-based reports, grant applications, marketing, and other communication materials and documentation. This course will draw on the expertise of a consultant from the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), who will provide a customised course educating those in local government on how to navigate the National Regional Profile, which includes data that can be used to build a profile of a council or region. For more information, visit lga.sa.gov.au, or email training@lga.sa.gov.au.

• When: 17 October • Where: Adelaide, South Australia • What: This seminar targets those in decisionmaking roles within local government as it explores organisational culture: how an organisation’s culture can help to execute its vision and mission, promote a shared purpose among staff, and how it defines itself in the hearts and minds of its customers. Presenter Maggie Wood of Elegant Concepts Group will explore what’s happening with the world leaders who exude organisational culture, how it affects customer service, how American models of organisational culture have been adopted and adapted to suit Australia’s climate, and how to avoid organisational culture traps. For more information, visit lga.sa.gov.au.

CONTINUED ON PAGE 238 236 • THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21

Belair Park Count ry Club

Be in the know…..

Discover Belair for your next seminar Amazing Belair Park Country Club is the perfect place to indulge your staff and impress your customers.

That’s because the Belair Park Country Club offers all the trappings of luxury at an affordable price.

And best of all, it’s in the middle of South Australia’s oldest national park, meaning it’s the perfect place to create a complete break from the office.

Surroundings

Group sizes and rooms

The Belair Park Country Club is surrounded by 835 hectares of stunning bushland. This makes it the perfect environment for your staff and customers to unwind and concentrate fully on your corporate event.

The Belair Park Country Club can cater for groups as small as 10 and as large as 250. We can configure our rooms to suit whatever you need, including theatres, boardrooms, workshop rooms and banquet rooms.

All your conference needs are covered We offer a huge range of equipment at no extra cost, including:

FREE • lecterns

• speakers

• data projectors, which can be used with DVD/VCR player

• lapel microphones

• wireless internet • flip charts

• white boards

• electronic whiteboards

• large screens (Parkview and Fairway View room have pull-down screens in the room)

• cordless microphones • cord microphones • CD players

Talk to us about your requirements.

*Five-Star Guarantee* if not completely satisfied with your seminar then the room hire is FREE. Visit our website today at www.belairparkcountryclub.com.au.

Or contact us on 08 8278 8991 or via email info@belairparkcountryclub.com.au.

Belair Park Count ry Club

events

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 236

Western Australia

New South Wales

2014 WA Local Government Convention and Trade

Local Government Week

Exhibition

• When: 6–8 August • Where: Perth, Western Australia • What: Bringing together several hundred local government council representatives from across Western Australia, this conference’s theme is ‘ILLUMINATE 2014 – Transparency, Trust and Transformation’. After an opening reception held in the afternoon of 6 August, the conference sessions will run on 7–8 August. Conference brochure and program is available online. For more information, visit walga.asn.au.

LGMA Community Development Conference 2014

• When: 4–5 September • Where: Fremantle, Western Australia • What: This conference is the main event for those professionals working in community development, and gives them a chance to mingle and network. This year’s theme is ‘Leading our Leaders – “LOL CD”’, and has three core streams: engagement, social planning and innovation. Hosted by the Community Development Network (CDN WA), this event will be attended by over 150 delegates – senior decisionmakers, officers and elected members – of local, state and even federal government, as well as those in academia, major community organisations and the service sector. More information can be obtained from lgmawa.org.au.

238 • THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21

• When: 4–10 August • Where: Local council areas across New South Wales • What: This week-long event provides the perfect opportunity to promote the importance of councils to residents, ratepayers and others in the communities to which local councils provide invaluable services year-round. It is also the perfect platform with which to educate the masses on the importance of local council, and all that the local councillors strive to achieve for their residents. This week will see New South Wales’s local governments host a great range of events and activities, including family fun days, multicultural fairs, heritage walks and more. More information can be found at lgnsw.org.au/events-training/local-government-week.

events

LGNSW Water Management Conference

• When: 25–27 August • Where: Port Macquarie, New South Wales • What: This annual water management conference presents those in the local government sector with a broad range of information on water management and related issues from the local government perspective. These include those stemming from water supply and sewerage services provided by the utilities. For more information, visit lgnsw.org.au/waterconference.

Local Government National Human Resources Conference

• When: 5–7 November

Customer Service Solutions for Government and Public Sector Conference 2014

• When: 11–12 June • Where: Rosehill, New South Wales • What: This conference has been designed to provide those working within all levels of government with the knowledge and practical information needed to deliver the very best in customer service. The themes explored during the two days include best practice, new technologies, customer satisfaction, and doing more for less. For more information, visit commstrat.cvent.com/events/customerservice-solutions-for-government-public-sector/ event-summary.

Fourth Local Government and Public Sector Building

• Where: Sydney, New South Wales

Maintenance and Management Conference

• What: Held every two years, this event aims to help New South Wales human resources staff come together to network and to learn about the diverse range of activities that are undertaken by the local government human resources professional. More information about the event will be released closer to the date, so stay updated by visiting lgnsw.org.au/events-training/local-governmenthuman-resources-conference.

• When: 11–12 November • Where: Sydney, New South Wales • What: Sustainability and environmentally friendly practices are becoming the norm in business. It is therefore imperative for building and facilities managers to be in the know when it comes to the latest sustainability developments, making this event a ‘must-attend’ for many in the local government sector. Presentations for the event include ‘Asset Management of Buildings – the Holistic Planning of Community Buildings’, as well as ‘Voltage Optimisation’ and ‘Energy-Efficient Light Replacement Project’. More information can be found at buildingmaintenanceconference.com.au.

THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21 • 239

events

Queensland

Tasmania

Leadership and Innovation Conference

102nd Local Government Conference – Building

• When: 10–11 July • Where: Brisbane, Queensland • What: With the role of leadership changing as technological advances sweep the globe, this two-day conference aims to provide a high level of discussion for local councils to consider ways to adapt to this evolution. The event gathers state and federal ministers, industry consultants and leading blue-chip companies in order to explore the relationship between productivity, leadership and innovation. More information can be obtained by calling 1300 542 700. Visit lgaq.asn.au closer to the date for full program details.

Regional and Economic Development Conference

Stronger Councils and Communities

• When: 23–25 July • Where: Wrest Point, Hobart • What: This year’s conference is complemented by a trade show that will showcase the latest products and services available to those in the industry, and a conference dinner, which will include a three-course meal, roving entertainment and the presentation of the Meritorious Service Award and LGAT Long Service Award. Workshops will be held throughout the conference’s duration, and will include topics such as ‘The role of debt in local government financial stability’, hosted by John Comrie, as well as ‘Risk aversion or management: how to manage public risks from natural hazards’, presented by Mathew Healy.

For further information, visit lgat.tas.gov.au.

• When: 30 July – 1 August • Where: Hervey Bay, Queensland

Emerging Leaders Program

• What: ‘Regions on the Rise’ is the theme of this year’s Regional and Economic Development Conference, where matters affecting the north, south, east and west regions of Queensland will be discussed. These topics include current government and policy programs, infrastructure planning and funding, tourism, the digital economy, the priorities and trends of industry, and regional planning. This event is a must-attend for mayors and councillors, senior managers, chief executive officers, and professional and regional organisation officers. Event updates and information can be found at lgaq.asn.au.

• When: November (date TBA)

240 • THE AUSTRALIAN LOCAL GOVERNMENT YEARBOOK EDITION 21

• Where: TBA • What: Tasmania will once again become host to this unique leadership program, where aspiring managers are invited to participate in this unique development event. This seminar has been designed to equip emerging leaders with an understanding of the key challenges faced by the local government industry, both past and present; the skills to establish competent leadership abilities; and the resources needed to continually develop leadership skills and abilities, as well as practices. For more information or for any program enquiries, email pamela.crawford@lgmatas.org.au.

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