Ordinary Agenda 13 December 2017

AGENDA
Ordinary Meeting of Council
6.00pm Wednesday 13 December 2017
*** Broadcast live on Phoenix FM 106.7 ***
VENUE:
Reception Room,
Bendigo Town Hall,
Hargreaves Street, Bendigo
NEXT MEETING:
Wednesday 24 January 2018
Bendigo Town Hall
Copies of the City of Greater Bendigo Councils Agendas & Minutes

can be obtained online at www.bendigo.vic.gov.au
PAGE 1
This Council Meeting is conducted in accordance with Local Law No. 8. It is an offence for any
person to engage in improper or disorderly conduct at the meeting.
Council Vision
Greater Bendigo - creating the world's most liveable community.
Council Values
Six values inform everything we as Council do in working together to be the best we can
for all of our community.
Seeking to achieve the best value for our use of the communitys public funds and
resources, by:
We Lead;
We Learn;
We Contribute;
We Care;
We Respond;
We Respect.
Goals
Presentation and Managing Growth

Wellbeing and Fairness
Strengthening the Economy
Environmental Sustainability
Embracing our Culture and Heritage
Lead and Govern for All
PAGE 2
ORDINARY MEETING
WEDNESDAY 13 DECEMBER 2017
ORDER OF BUSINESS:
ITEM PRECIS PAGE
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY 5
PRAYER 5
PRESENT 5
APOLOGIES 5
SUSPENSION OF STANDING ORDERS 5
PUBLIC QUESTION TIME 5
RESUMPTION OF STANDING ORDERS 6
CR FLACK'S REPORT 6
DECLARATIONS OF CONFLICT OF INTEREST 7
CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES 8
1. PETITIONS AND JOINT LETTERS 10
1.1 PETITION: REQUEST FOR SCHOOL CROSSING 10

SUPERVISOR FOR EPSOM PRIMARY SCHOOL
2. PRESENTATION AND MANAGING GROWTH 12
2.1 APPLICATION FOR A DEVELOPMENT PLAN AND 12

PLANNING PERMIT AT 11 & 21 TAYLORS LANE,
STRATHFIELDSAYE
2.2 PLANNING SCHEME AMENDMENT C236 - APPLY THE 38

PUBLIC ACQUISITION OVERLAY TO PART OF 264 HIGH
STREET KANGAROO FLAT - CONSIDER AUTHORISATION
REQUEST
2.3 46-50 & 54-56 HIGH STREET, 65 SHORT STREET AND 80 45

WATTLE STREET, BENDIGO - ASPIRE PRECINCT
2.4 1 AVERYS ROAD, EAGLEHAWK 3556 - BUILDINGS AND 70

WORKS FOR A TELECOMMUNICATION FACILITY (35
METRE POLE; AND ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT IN
BOLLARDED COMPOUND)
2.5 330 AND 338 OLYMPIC PARADE, MAIDEN GULLY 3551 - 2 84

LOT SUBDIVISION
PAGE 3
3. WELLBEING AND FAIRNESS 91
3.1 YOUTH STRATEGY 91
3.2 SUMMER PREPAREDNESS INTEGRATED EMERGENCY 99

MANAGEMENT PLANNING COMMITTEE
3.3 RENAMING OF BENDIGO AQUATIC CENTRE 104
4. STRENGTHENING THE ECONOMY 109
5. ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY 110
5.1 GREATER BENDIGO ENVIRONMENT STRATEGY ACTION 110

PLAN
6. EMBRACING OUR CULTURE AND HERITAGE 117
6.1 GASWORKS SITE CONTAMINATION AND FUTURE USE 117
7. LEAD AND GOVERN FOR ALL 130
7.1 RECORD OF ASSEMBLIES 130
7.2 CONTRACTS AWARDED UNDER DELEGATION 135
7.3 QUARTERLY REPORT - COMMUNITY PLAN 137
7.4 FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT REPORT AS AT 30 187

SEPTEMBER 2017
7.5 APPOINTMENT OF CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER 191
8. URGENT BUSINESS 194
9. NOTICES OF MOTION 194
10. COUNCILLORS' REPORTS 194
11. MAYOR'S REPORT 194
12. CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER'S REPORT 194
13. CONFIDENTIAL (SECTION 89) REPORTS 194
13.1 Confidential Report in accordance with Section 89(2)(a) 194

and (d) of the Local Government Act relating to a
personnel and contractual matter
____________________________
CRAIG NIEMANN
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
PAGE 4
Ordinary Meeting - 13 December 2017
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY
PRAYER
PRESENT
APOLOGIES
SUSPENSION OF STANDING ORDERS
That Standing Orders be suspended to allow the conduct of Public Question Time.
PUBLIC QUESTION TIME
Public Question Time Purpose

Council has provided the opportunity for members of the public to ask questions of broad
interest to Council and the community. Matters relating to routine Council works should
be taken up with Councils Customer Service Officers through its Customer Request
System.
By the time planning matters have reached the council agenda, they have been through
an extensive process as required by the Planning and Environment Act. In addition, in
most instances mediation has been held between the parties involved. Throughout the
process there are many opportunities for the people to ask questions. Therefore, no
questions relating to planning matters on the Agenda will be accepted.
Public Question Time Where, When And Who

The public question time is held at every Ordinary Meeting of Greater Bendigo City
Council. Meetings of Council commence at 6.00pm in the Reception Room, Bendigo
Town Hall, Hargreaves Street, Bendigo.
The public question time is held at the start of the meeting as close as practical to
6:00pm. A maximum of 30 minutes has been provided for registered and unregistered
questions.
Residents are encouraged to lodge questions in advance so that a more complete

response can be provided.
Questions will be put to the Council by the individual posing the question; the question
will be answered by the Mayor or CEO, or where appropriate, Councillors or Council
Officers.
PAGE 5
Acceptance of Questions
Each person asking a question of Council is required to stand, state their name, and
address the Mayor. Public Question Time is not an opportunity for making of statements
or other comments. Councils Meeting Procedure Local Law does not allow for other
questions or comments during the remainder of the meeting.
1. An individual may only ask one question per meeting, a follow-up question may be
permitted at the discretion of the Mayor.
2. In the event that the same or similar question is raised by more than one person,
an answer may be given as a combined response.
3. In the event that time does not permit all questions registered to be answered,
questions will be answered in writing or referred to the next meeting if appropriate.
4. The Mayor and or CEO have the right to decline registration on basis of:
Legal proceedings;
More appropriately addressed by other means;
Vague or lacking in substance, irrelevant, frivolous, insulting offensive,
improper, defamatory or demeaning;
Answer likely to compromise his / her position;
Confidential, commercial-in-confidence.
5. Each individual whose registration form has been accepted or declined will be
advised by the Friday of the week prior to the scheduled meeting.
6. In the event of a registration form being declined the registration form will be
circulated to the Mayor or Councillors for information.
RESUMPTION OF STANDING ORDERS
That Standing Orders be resumed.
CR FLACK'S REPORT
PAGE 6
DECLARATIONS OF CONFLICT OF INTEREST
Pursuant to Sections 77, 78 and 79 of the Local Government Act 1989 (as
amended) direct and indirect conflict of interest must be declared prior to debate
on specific items within the agenda; or in writing to the Chief Executive Officer
before the meeting. Declaration of indirect interests must also include the
classification of the interest (in circumstances where a Councillor has made a
Declaration in writing, the classification of the interest must still be declared at the
meeting), i.e.
(a) direct financial interest

(b) indirect interest by close association
(c) indirect interest that is an indirect financial interest
(d) indirect interest because of conflicting duties
(e) indirect interest because of receipt of an applicable gift
(f) indirect interest as a consequence of becoming an interested party
(g) indirect interest as a result of impact on residential amenity
(h) conflicting personal interest
A Councillor who has declared a conflict of interest, must leave the meeting and
remain outside the room while the matter is being considered, or any vote is taken.
Councillors are also encouraged to declare circumstances where there may be a

perceived conflict of interest.
PAGE 7
CONFIRMATION OF MINUTES
Minutes of the Special Meeting held on Tuesday 14 November 2017 and Minutes of
Ordinary Meeting of Wednesday 15 November 2017.
The following items were considered at the Special Meeting of Council meeting held on
Tuesday 14 November 2017 at 6:00pm.
Election of Mayor for 2017/2018

Response to Mayor's Report for 2016/2017
Response to Deputy Mayor's Report for 2016/2017
Election of Deputy Mayor for 2017/2018
The following items were considered at the Ordinary Council meeting held on
Wednesday 15 November, 2017 at 6:00pm.
Response to Petition: Parking Girton College and Sacred Heart Cathedral Precincts
Petition: Traffic Safety Issue at Intersection of Gladeville Drive and Howard Street,
Eaglehawk
Planning Scheme Amendment C220 & Development Plan DP/80/2016 - Lansell
Crest, Consider Panel and Advisory Committee Report, Adoption of Amendment
C220, and Approval of Development Plan DP/80/2016
Planning Scheme Amendment C223 - White Hills and East Bendigo Heritage Study,
Stage 2 Consider Panel Report and Adoption of Amendment
Planning Scheme Amendment C221 - Bendigo Urban Flood Study - Consider Panel
Report and Adoption of Amendment
46-50 & 54-56 High Street, 65 Short Street and 80 Wattle Street, Bendigo - Aspire
Precinct
Bendigo Freight Study
Bendigo Club Gaming Application
2018 Dudley House Community Hire Subsidy and Performance Subsidy - Round 1 of
2
Funding and Management Agreement for Bendigo Heritage Attractions
Council Meeting Dates 2017/2018 Mayoral Term
Council and Community Committees for 2017/2018
Appointment of Independent Member of the Audit Committee
Record of Assemblies
Contracts Awarded Under Delegation
Section 89 Confidential Report - Contractual Matter
The unconfirmed minutes have also been posted on the City of Greater Bendigo website
pending confirmation at this meeting.
PAGE 8
RECOMMENDATION
That the Minutes of the Special Meeting of Council held on Tuesday 14 November 2017
and the Ordinary Meeting of Council held on Wednesday 15 November, 2017, as
circulated, be taken as read and confirmed.
PAGE 9
Petitions and Joint Letters Ordinary Meeting - 13 December 2017
1. PETITIONS AND JOINT LETTERS
1.1 PETITION: REQUEST FOR SCHOOL CROSSING SUPERVISOR FOR

EPSOM PRIMARY SCHOOL
[Petitions and joint letters with ten (10) or more signatures are included in the agenda or
tabled at the meeting, unless there is a separate legal process for considering the
petition or joint letter, as there is for planning submissions or submissions following
public notices (Section 223 LGA)].
The following petition was presented to Council at its last meeting from the parents,
students and visitors from the Epsom Primary School and its environs, as outlined below:
"Epsom Primary School is campaigning to re-allocate a 'Lolly Pop' person to the

traffic lights at the intersection of Midland Highway and Howard Street, Epsom to
escort school aged children safely across the road before and after school. A
number of students who attend Epsom Primary School use this route to get to
school and without the assistance of a 'Lolly Pop' person, it is often a dangerous
road for children to cross without supervision.
Epsom Primary School encourage children to actively, walk, ride or scoot to school
and the re-allocation of a 'Lolly Pop' person to this busy intersection would make it a
lot safer for our children".
Signatures - 1,204
Officer response
The City is a strong supporter of the use of walking and cycling for students to access
schools. The City provides infrastructure in the form of footpaths and shared walking /
cycling paths along with programs to encourage and promote walking and cycling to
schools. Epsom Primary School is at the northern end of the Bendigo Creek Trail which
provides for safe off road access to many schools along the Bendigo Creek corridor.
Recent works in Goynes Road have included the construction of additional footpaths
which also assist in providing access to the Epsom Primary School . A footpath in
Howard Street between the Midland Highway and Station Street is being considered as
part of the preparation of the draft 2018/19 Council budget.
The City currently provides 44 school crossing supervisors across 43 sites to assist
students and parents to access 32 schools. The school crossing supervisors are jointly
funding by the City and the Victorian Government via VicRoads. The government
subsidy is based on criteria relating to pedestrian counts of both primary and secondary
students as well as motor vehicle counts.
PAGE 10
Petitions and Joint Letters Ordinary Meeting - 13 December 2017
At the traffic signals at Midland Highway / Howard Street a school crossing supervisor
was previously at this site. However with the growth of residential development off
Goynes Road the City was requested to relocate the crossing supervisor to the school
crossing in Goynes Road in 2015.
As part of the recent application to VicRoads for the school crossing supervisor program
for the 2018/19 financial year, pedestrian and traffic counts were undertaken at all sites
including the intersection at Midland Highway / Howard street. The application includes
a submission for 47 supervisors across 46 sites with one of the additional sites being the
Midland Highway / Howard street intersection.
The announcement of funding under the scheme in the 2018/19 financial year is likely to
be received in May or June 2018.
RECOMMENDATION
That the City notify the Epsom Primary School of the application for the funding subsidy
for a school crossing supervisor at Midland Highway / Howard Street and provide further
response when announcement of the funding application is received.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
PAGE 11
Presentation and Managing Growth - Reports Ordinary Meeting - 13 December 2017
2. PRESENTATION AND MANAGING GROWTH
2.1 APPLICATION FOR A DEVELOPMENT PLAN AND PLANNING

PERMIT AT 11 & 21 TAYLORS LANE, STRATHFIELDSAYE
Document Information
Author Chris Duckett, Planning Coordinator
Responsible Bernie O Sullivan, Director Strategy & Growth
Summary/Purpose
Application details: Development plan and planning application for subdivision,

removal of native vegetation and removal of drainage
easements
Application Nos: DS/226/2016/1 and DEV/226/2016
Applicant: Shane Muir Consulting Engineers Pty Ltd
Land: 11 & 21 Taylors Lane, STRATHFIELDSAYE
Zoning: General Residential Zone (GRZ)
Overlays: Development Plan Overlay (DPO) Schedule 26
No. of objections: 7
Consultation Held on 1 November 2016 attended by the Citys Planning
meeting: officer and Traffic Engineer, the applicant, owner and 7 local
residents.
No objections were withdrawn and no changes were made to

the proposal as a result of the meeting.
Key considerations: Are the requirements of the Development Plan Overlay
met?
Is the proposal consistent with strategic planning for
residential growth in Strathfieldsaye?
Does the proposal provide for an acceptable outcome with
regard to biodiversity, character, and infrastructure?
Conclusion: The site is in a good location to provide new housing in terms
of accessibility to employment opportunities, leisure and
shopping facilities.
The proposed development plan and subdivision is generally

in accordance with the planning scheme requirements and is
recommended for approval.
PAGE 12
RECOMMENDATION
That the Greater Bendigo City Council resolves to:

(a) Approve the development plan, reference no: AB2143-16-01 Version 11, prepared
by Adrian Cummins and Associates and submitted, 27 September 2017 for the
subdivision of land, and removal of native vegetation at 11 and 21 Taylors Lane
Strathfieldsaye; and
(b) Pursuant to section 61 of the Planning and Environment Act (1987), grant a planning
permit for subdivision of land, removal of native vegetation and removal of an
easement at 11 and 21 Taylors Lane Strathfieldsaye subject to the conditions at the
end of this report.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Policy Context
City of Greater Bendigo Community Plan 2017 2021

Goal 4: Presentation and managing growth
Planning, developments and infrastructure that increase our liveability and pride in
where we live.
Goal 6: Embracing our culture and heritage
Recognise and celebrate our unique history and diverse cultures.
Background Information
Under consideration in this report are separate development plan and planning permit
applications for a 32 lot subdivision and removal of native vegetation.
The decision making process for development plans and planning applications are
independent of each other, although applications can be considered concurrently. There
are some important differences between the processing of a development plan and a
planning application.
A development plan has three purposes:

(a) To implement the State Planning Policy Framework and the Local Planning Policy
Framework, including the Municipal Strategic Statement and local planning policies;
(b) To identify areas that require the form and conditions of future use or development
to be shown on a plan before a planning permit can be granted to use or develop
land; and
(c) To exempt a planning permit application from notice and review if it is generally in
accordance with an approved development plan.
PAGE 13
Unlike planning applications there is no specific requirement in the Planning and

Environment Act or the Planning Scheme for notice to be provided for development
plans. This is generally because the Development Plan Overlay on the land would have
been through a Planning Scheme Amendment process at which time the local
community would have had an opportunity to comment on proposed strategic planning
for the area.
Notwithstanding that there is no formal notification process, it is Council policy to

informally advertise and seek comment from the community on development plans and
that is what has occurred in this instance.
As the planning application for the proposed subdivision is generally in accordance with
the submitted development plan it will be exempt from notice and review and if Council
resolves to approve the development plan it can then also approve the planning permit.
Although the proposal did not address any objector issues following the consultation
meeting there was further discussion between the applicant and officers regarding
drainage and traffic issues.
Subsequently, the proposal was amended in September 2017. The main changes were
to provide a staging of the subdivision; an additional road access to the unnamed road; a
reduction of the lot yield from 34 to 32 and some changes to lot sizes.
The amended proposal was re-advertised in October 2017 and no objections were
withdrawn.
Report
Subject Site and Surrounds
The site consists of three land parcels with a total area of 2.6 hectares. 11 Taylors Lane
is one parcel with an area of 4,505 square metres with a frontage to Taylors Lane. 21
Taylors Lane comprises two parcels with an area of 21,685 square metres with frontages
to both Taylors Lane and Uxbridge Street.
Located on the site is a single dwelling, some shedding, a dam and approximately two
thirds of the site features a coverage of native vegetation.
The site is around 0.5km from Strathfieldsaye shopping centre and around 8km from
Bendigo CBD.
The site and its surrounding area could be described as one that is in transition, in that
there are large blocks of undeveloped land of various zonings amidst recently subdivided
land which has been progressively developed with dwellings. The table and aerial
photograph below provides more detail on the immediate area.
Address Relationship Zoning Current Use

to Site
884 Strathfieldsaye Rd North Special Use Vacant
PAGE 14
894 Strathfieldsaye Rd North Commercial 1 Single dwelling

912 Strathfieldsaye Rd East Commercial 1 and Single dwelling
General Residential
Various on Taylors Lane South General Residential Dwellings on
larger blocks
Various on Bassett Drive South-east General Residential Dwellings on
standard blocks
Figure 1: Zoning map of the Strathfieldsaye town centre, including the subject site
Figure 2: Location map showing subject site. Objectors' properties marked with a star with one objectors
property being outside the scope of the map.
PAGE 15
Proposal
Approval is sought for a development plan and a planning permit for a 32 lot staged
subdivision and removal of native vegetation.
The subdivision would feature a range of lots sizes of between 505 to 776 square metres
with a much larger lot of 3,271 square metres retained for the existing dwelling. Three
lots would front Taylors Lane and 7 lots would front what is currently an unmade road to
the east. The remainder of the lots will access a new road that will be provided through
the subdivision which will connect with Taylors Lane from the unmade road and provide
future connection to the land to the north and south of the site, if and when they are
developed.
Figure 3: Proposed development plan
PAGE 16
Figure 4: Proposed subdivision layout showing staging.
The proposed staging of the subdivision is listed below:
Stage 1: Lots 1 and 21-31

Stage 2: Lots 2-4, 12-17, 19-20, 23 and 32
Stage 3: Lots 5-11 and 18.
A planning permit is not required to build dwellings on the lots as they are all over 300
square metres in area.
The proposal would result in the removal of 1.344ha of medium conservation significance
native vegetation.
It is also proposed to remove an existing drainage easement on the land and there may
be a need to create a temporary drainage reserve in stage 3 of the subdivision. The
drainage issue is discussed in greater detail below.
Planning Controls - Greater Bendigo Planning Scheme
The following clauses are relevant in the consideration of this proposal:
State Planning Policy Framework

11.02 Urban growth
11.05 Regional development
11.12 Loddon Mallee South regional growth
12.02 Biodiversity
15.01 Urban environment
15.02 Sustainable environment
PAGE 17
15.03-2 Aboriginal cultural heritage

16.01 Medium density housing
19.03-2 Water supply, sewerage and drainage
Municipal Strategic Statement

21.02 Key issues and influences
21.05 Compact Bendigo
21.11 Reference Documents
Local Planning Policies

22.22 Strathfieldsaye Township Residential Character Policy
Other Provisions
32.08 General Residential Zone
43.05 Development Plan Overlay
52.02 Easements, Restrictions and Reserves
52.17 Native vegetation
56 Residential Subdivision
Consultation/Communication
Referrals
The following authorities and internal departments have been consulted on the proposal:
Referral Comment
Powercor No objection subject to conditions
Coliban Water No objection subject to conditions
Downer (gas) No objection subject to conditions
CFA No objection subject to conditions
DELWP No objection subject to conditions
Traffic & Design No objection subject to conditions
Drainage No objection subject to conditions
Public Notification
The development plan was informally advertised by way of notice on the site and letters
to adjoining and nearby owners and occupiers.
As a result of advertising, 7 objections were received, with the grounds of objection

summarised as:
Safety of access to Taylors Lane;
PAGE 18
Impact on subdivision of 48A Bassett Drive;

Drainage issues;
Loss of wildlife;
Removal of trees;
Block sizes too small;
Not in keeping with rural feel of Strathfieldsaye;
Increased pressure on roads due to high density;
Non-compliance with Township Plan and other planning scheme provisions;
Poor linkages with town centre including walking and cycling;
No open space provision;
Access should be from Uxbridge Street;
More imaginative subdivision needed.
The issues raised by the objectors are discussed below.
Planning Assessment
The key issues for consideration when assessing if the development plan and
subdivision are satisfactory are considered under the headings below, but it should be
noted that the issues are interlinked.
Are the requirements of Development Plan Overlay met?
The Development Plan Overlay has the following purposes:

To implement the State Planning Policy Framework and the Local Planning Policy
Framework, including the Municipal Strategic Statement and local planning policies;
To identify areas which require the form and conditions of future use and
development to be shown on a development plan before a permit can be granted to
use or develop the land;
To exempt an application from notice and review if it is generally in accordance with a
development plan.
A development plan submitted must describe:

The land to which the plan applies;
The proposed use and development of each part of the land;
Any other requirements specified for the plan in a schedule to this overlay.
In terms of meeting the above requirements, the development plan appropriately

describes the land and development, therefore the main issue is whether it meets the
requirements of the schedule to the overlay.
Schedule 26 to the Development Plan Overlay applies to three areas in Strathfieldsaye

as identified in the Strathfieldsaye Township Plan, 2009. The site is located in the Town
Centre area as identified in red outline in Figure 5 below.
PAGE 19
Figure 5: Schedule 26 to the Development Plan Overlay map
Clause 2.0 of Schedule 26 sets out the objective for the development plan as:
The objective for the Development Plan area is to deliver a sensitively designed
residential development that incorporates better quality vegetation within an
integrated open space network which focuses on linkages to the various creek
corridors. For the town centre the objective is to deliver a vibrant and accessible
town centre and promote economic development.
Clause 3.0 of Schedule 26 sets out the requirement for the development plan as:
The development plan must be generally consistent with the Bendigo Residential
Development Strategy 20041 and the Strathfieldsaye Township Plan, 2009 to the
satisfaction of the responsible authority.
Clause 3.0 goes onto say that the development plan may be prepared and implemented
in stages and address certain appropriate requirements. The requirements relevant to
this application are:
Town Centre
The development plan must be generally consistent with Plan 4: Town Centre Structure
Plan as contained in the Strathfieldsaye Township Plan, 2009 and provide for:
1 1
BENDIGO RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY 2004 HAS BEEN SUPERSEDED BY THE GREATER BENDIGO
RESIDENTIAL STRATEGY (2014).
PAGE 20
Development
Medium density housing, as appropriate:
Within the Core Area in a variety of forms, including shop top housing to maintain
active commercial frontages.
North of the Core Area and bounded by Uxbridge Street to the west and Blucher
Street to the east.
Within 400 metres of the Core Area or at interfaces with public open space.
Movement
Provision of mid-block pedestrian linkages to facilitate pedestrian access through the
Core Area.
Provision of shared space in the design of roads to enable pedestrians and vehicles
to co-exist safely.
Schedule 26 was imposed over parts of the Strathfieldsaye Township as part of a

strategic Planning Scheme Amendment (C137). Therefore, consideration of whether the
proposal addresses the requirements of Schedule 26 and indeed whether it meets the
purpose of the DPO overlaps into the second key issue.
Is the development plan consistent with strategic planning for Strathfieldsaye, in

particular whether the proposed density is appropriate?
State planning policy strongly promotes Bendigo as a location where increased

residential densities are encouraged in areas proximate to activity centres.
State planning policy for residential growth is also fully supported by local policy and
Councils Municipal Strategic Statement (MSS) has recently been revised to facilitate the
Greater Bendigo Residential Strategy (2014).
Clause 21.02- Key issues and influences outlines the background to the concept of
Compact Greater Bendigo which the Residential Strategy promotes in order to
strengthen the urban growth boundary and improve housing and transport options.
Clause 21.05 Compact Greater Bendigo provides further detail on the concept, in
particular clause 21.05-3 10 minute neighbourhoods which has the goal of creating a
network of 10 minute neighbourhoods where people can access many of their daily
needs within a 10 minute walk or cycle trip from where they live.
Also of relevance in clause 21.05 is sub- clause 21.05-4 Housing density and diversity.
This seeks to provide a greater choice in housing types and densities that responds to
the lack of dwelling size choice in Bendigo, in particular dwellings with less than 3
bedrooms.
As this site is within 400m of the town centre with employment, shopping, leisure and
transport opportunities it would clearly be within a 10 minute neighbourhood. Therefore
the proposal meets local and State objectives in terms of being an appropriate location
for housing.
PAGE 21
In addition to State and local policy direction on housing, the Strathfieldsaye Township
Plan, 2009 is the key local strategic planning document which guides the future
development of Strathfieldsaye. The Township Plan was prepared in consultation with
the local community and relevant government agencies and was adopted by Council on
1 July 2009 and is a reference document in the Planning Scheme.
Plan 4 Town Centre Structure Plan is contained in the Township Plan, which includes the
site as shown in Figure 6 below.
Figure 6: Plan 4: Town Centre Structure Plan, Strathfieldsaye Township Plan 2009
As discussed under DPO Schedule 26, a development plan must be generally consistent
with Plan 4 and provide for medium density housing within the Core Area and within
400m of the core area.
In Figure 6 above, the Core Area is outlined in orange and locations for medium density
housing are identified in pink.
Given that the whole of the site is within 400m of the Core Area it is, in principle,
appropriate for medium density housing. However, Plan 4 only explicitly identifies
medium density in the cleared, south eastern corner of the site so the remainder of the
site could be viewed as being more suitable for standard suburban housing, although
that is not stated in the Township Plan.
In order to consider this further it is necessary to review how the Township Plan defines
types of housing and how they align with the proposed subdivision density.
PAGE 22
Medium density housing is sought in the town centre area and is defined in the Township
Plan as:
Two or more dwellings on a lot
Semi-detached houses
Terraced houses
Dwellings on lots of less than 300 square metres.2
Suburban housing is sought on other residential land which has been either cleared or
has vegetation with low conservation significance and is defined in the Township Plan
as:
Single dwellings on lots greater than 300 square metres.
The Township Plan also has a number of themes relevant to this proposal which includes
a series of objectives and strategies. Under the theme residential land use, of relevance
to the question of density are the following:
Objectives
O1.2 To ensure a range of housing choices for people of different ages, incomes and
preferences
O1.3 To increase average residential densities across Strathfieldsaye
Strategies
S1.2 Encourage subdivisions that set aside large allotments with wide street frontages
and dual street access suitable for integrated medium density housing.
It can be concluded that the strategic direction in the Township Plan for the site is for a
mix of medium density housing and traditional suburban housing density with the
retention of remnant native vegetation. The removal of the native vegetation on the site is
considered further in the character discussion below.
The subdivision layout includes lots in the range of 505 sqm to 776 sqm with a much
larger lot for the existing dwelling, with the smaller lots located closer to the unnamed
road and the town centre and the larger lots towards Taylors Lane.
The proposed subdivision therefore does not provide the medium density housing as
defined in the Township Plan as the lots sizes are actually within the suburban housing
definition. It is noted that the definition is not fully met as sites vegetation classification is
medium significance rather than low. The subdivision is also unlikely to result in the
diversity of housing sought by Compact Bendigo as it is reasonable to assume that the
lots will accommodate 3 or 4 bedroom houses rather smaller dwellings.
The current layout, whilst still not providing medium density housing and diversity as
sought by Councils strategy, does include the smallest lots in the pink area identified in
the Plan. Given that there are other competing character and environmental objectives
which are discussed below, the development plan strikes an appropriate balance in
terms of providing housing density and diversity in a 10 minute neighbourhood.
2
RESCODE CLAUSE 56 HAS SIMILAR OBJECTIVES FOR HOUSING DENSITY AND DIVERSITY IN AND AROUND ACTIVITY
CENTRES.
PAGE 23
Council has also adopted an Urban Design Framework (UDF) for Strathfieldsaye town
centre which will guide future development in the town. The UDF has a focus on
Strathfieldsaye Road and Wellington Street but does include this site in Precinct 3
Transitional Residential. As the UDF does not form part of the Planning Scheme at this
point in time, it has limited weight in decision making.
Does the development plan provide for an acceptable outcome with regard to
biodiversity, neighbourhood character and infrastructure considerations?
It has been established that the principle of providing residential development on this site
is strongly supported by State and local planning policy. However, there are a number of
other issues which include concerns raised by local residents that must be considered
before it can be determined whether the development plan and subdivision can be
approved. These issues are considered below.
Biodiversity and native vegetation
State planning policy seeks to protect high value biodiversity and avoid removal of native
vegetation that makes a significant contribution to Victorias biodiversity.
The development proposes the removal of 1.344ha of native vegetation. The applicant
has provided an ecological assessment, which in terms of flora found no rare species
and determined the vegetation as degraded with medium conservation value with no
connectivity to other patches of vegetation. In regards to fauna, no rare, vulnerable or
endangered species were found in the assessment.
The Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning (DELWP) have reviewed the
removal of the native vegetation and consented to the removal subject to offset
conditions.
From a local policy perspective the following objectives and strategies in section 3.7
Biodiversity and Bushland Interfaces in the Township Plan are relevant to this
discussion.
Biodiversity and bushland interfaces

O7.1 To protect native vegetation for the contribution it makes to biodiversity and the
landscape character of Strathfieldsaye.
O7.2 To protect and enhance the vegetation that makes the most significant
contribution to local biodiversity values.
O7.3 To ensure the quality and extent of native vegetation is properly assessed prior to
the approval of Outline Development Plans or planning permits.
S7.1 Apply the avoid, minimise and offset approach to native vegetation as it relates to
the relative significance of vegetation across the study area. Assume that all
other vegetation is cleared and offset.
S7.3 Protect medium and high conservation significance vegetation by controlling the
density of development on the land via building envelopes and other restrictions.
The Township Plan acknowledges the difficulties in retaining vegetation in suburban

development particularly as the extent, integrity and conservation significance of the
vegetation varies significantly across the study area and that these issues are combined
with high expectations from the community that important vegetation will be protected.
PAGE 24
These expectations have been borne out by the concerns that residents raised regarding
the loss of vegetation and wildlife that would occur.
As shown on Plan 2 Environment, (Figure 7 below) the Township Plan aims to protect
those areas of land which contribute most to biodiversity values. Although the vegetation
on the land is of medium significance, the subject site is not identified as having any
strategic biodiversity value. Furthermore, as noted above DELWP has consented to the
removal of the vegetation.
Notwithstanding this, the Township Plan does go on to say that other areas of vegetation
will be retained because they make a significant contribution to the landscape and
amenity of residential neighbourhoods. So whilst from a biodiversity perspective the
removal of the native vegetation is acceptable, the amenity value of the vegetation
requires further consideration and this is discussed in the neighbourhood character
section below.
Figure 7: Plan 2: Environment, Strathfieldsaye Township Plan 2009
Neighbourhood Character
Neighbourhood character is referenced as an important consideration throughout the

planning scheme including clauses 15.01 Urban Environment, 16.01 Residential
Development, 21.06 Housing, 22.22 Strathfieldsaye Township Residential Character
Policy, 32.08 General Residential Zone and 56 Residential Subdivision.
The proposal requires consideration of the challenge of balancing State and local
policies which encourage consolidation of new housing within established urban areas
PAGE 25
whilst at the same time requiring development to be respectful of existing and preferred
neighbourhood characteristics.
The General Residential Zone includes the purpose of encouraging development that
respects the neighbourhood character of the area. It is also a consideration of the
development plan overlay that a development plan appropriately implements local policy.
Of relevance in the assessment of local policy in relation to character is the
Strathfieldsaye Township Residential Character Policy Precinct 4.
Under the heading Strathfieldsaye Township Vision, the policy states that:
The semi-rural setting of the Strathfieldsaye township will be maintained and enhanced
by:
Retaining the backdrop of mature indigenous trees.
Encouraging the use of a mixture of materials, including timber and render.
Encouraging spacious forms of development that allow for adequate separation
between buildings, and retention and planting of substantial vegetation.
Encouraging the use of open farm style front fencing, or a lack of front fencing.
Encouraging the retention of informal street treatments.
The character description of Precinct 4 is:

This precinct has a spacious semi-rural open bushland character created by the
rural style houses set within spacious well established native gardens, and
remnant vegetation. Dwellings are average in size, are usually low scale and
horizontal in form, and are usually offset large distances from all boundaries. The
semi-rural appearance is assisted by the use of farm style fencing, and unmade
street treatments and informal indigenous street trees.
The statement of the desired future character of the precinct is:

The spacious semi-rural open bushland character will be maintained and
enhanced.
The policy also has a series of objectives and design responses which seek to achieve
the desired future character of a spacious, semi-rural, open bushland character. Many of
the objectives are not relevant to this application as they relate to built form which is not
being considered, but the flavour of the objectives is to encourage vegetation retention
and to maintain the spacious bushland character of the precinct.
In addition, the Township Plan aligns with the character policy by including in the Vision a
need to protect and respect environmental features and create a strong sense of place
derived from its distinctive bushland and semi-rural setting. The Township Plan has a
number of objectives and strategies that seek to facilitate this vision as follows:
Residential Land Use

O1.1 To protect significant native vegetation and prevent development on land with
environmental constraints.
Residential Character
O3.1 To retain existing native vegetation for amenity values.
PAGE 26
O3.2 To encourage the development of a spacious urban form along key entrances to
new residential neighbourhoods.
S3.1 Incorporate remnant native vegetation into the design of subdivisions, with a
preference for locating vegetation in road reservations, open space, reserves and
common property.
PAGE 27
This proposal highlights that, as with many proposals, there are competing interests that
must be balanced. On the one hand Strathfieldsaye is an identified growth area where
the planning scheme seeks a densification and diversification of housing. On the other
hand there is a character policy and Township Plan which seeks to retain the semi-rural
feel of the area and an important part of this is spacious development and retention of
mature vegetation.
There is an argument that Bendigos residential character policies have limited weight
compared to more recent State and local policies such as clause 21.05 Compact
Bendigo. In a decision on a 2015 subdivision application in Kennington, Dimu Holdings
Pty Ltd v Greater Bendigo CC the Tribunal stated:
"I give limited weight to the local policy in clause 22.24. It predates the policies in clauses
11, 16 and 21 that clearly encourage some level of intensification and more robust built
form in well serviced areas such as this."
It is noteworthy that the Dimu Holdings decision predates adoption of the Greater
Bendigo Residential Strategy (2014) and the incorporation of Compact Bendigo into the
planning scheme. Therefore the argument of the character policies having less weight
than more recent strategies is perhaps even more pertinent now.
Moreover, as can be seen in Figure 8 below, there are a number of recently approved
subdivisions in the character policy area which have similar lot sizes where it seems that
greater weight has been placed on polices which encourage intensification.
Figure 8: Aerials showing other subdivisions in character policy area (green).
Even assuming that the policies are given equal weight, the key question is how to
reconcile these two competing interests so that there is an acceptable planning outcome.
PAGE 28
An earlier planning application on the site, which subsequently lapsed, proposed an

inward looking layout with more uniform lot sizes including 5 lots fronting Taylors Lane.
Negotiations between officers and the applicant on that application sought to achieve a
more sensitive layout that would have included the retention of some of the larger trees
either in the road reserve or some of the larger blocks, in attempt to better respond to the
character policy.
However, advice from both the Citys landscape coordinator and arborist was that
paddock trees on the site are unsuitable as amenity trees in road reserves and are
generally incompatible with residential development due to the likelihood of limb
shedding. Given the incompatibility of the trees with residential development it would
also be unwise to seek retention of the trees on the lots as it is likely this would be
problematic for future owners, which may lead to requests to remove the trees in any
case.
Consequently, this latest application, although removing all vegetation, did more
appropriately address S.3.4 of the Township Plan by providing 3 larger lots fronting
Taylors Lane. Having more spacious lots presenting to Taylors Lane would maintain a
sense of place at the entrance to the site. Whilst smaller lots sizes towards the eastern
boundary and closer to the town centre would be more compatible with the subdivision
pattern in the Bassett Drive area.
In order to assist in mitigating the impact on the landscape character of this part of
Strathfieldsaye, a permit condition is recommended which requires the submission of a
landscaping design which makes a contribution to the character and identity of the
neighbourhood.
Traffic and movement
The development plan proposes to integrate with the existing road network with an east-
west access street which intersects with Taylors Lane and a north-south access street
which would enable connection to the adjoining lots if and when they are developed.
The development plan also provides for lots fronting the currently unmade road which will
be partially constructed.
In the Town Centre component of Schedule 26, the movement requirements relate more
to an expectation of commercial development of the centre rather than residential
development. It is therefore necessary to review how access and movement is dealt with
in a broader sense in the Township Plan. The key illustration, Plan 3: Transport and
Movement identifies arterial and connector roads and some access streets and Plan 4
Town Centre identifies Uxbridge Street as part of a road link through the town centre.
Although neither Plan 3 nor Plan 4 show access streets through the site as proposed,
that does not necessarily mean that the development plan is not generally in accordance
with the Township Plan.
The Township Plan envisages a movement network that is highly accessible, safe and
integrated with the existing network or roads and paths. Strategy S4.22 states:
Develop a network of access streets through the preparation of Outline
Development Plans based on the design guidelines outlined below.
PAGE 29
Included in the design guidelines are:

New roads should:
Be developed within existing road reserves
Follow existing property boundaries
Be located on cleared land
Whilst the access streets proposed do not strictly adhere to these guidelines, other than
the extension to Uxbridge Street, it is important to note these are guidelines and
alternative designs may be acceptable.
The development plan in the earlier application included a cul-de-sac which conflicted
with objectives in the Township Plan to encourage neighbourhoods that are easy to
navigate by car, bicycle or on foot. Cul-de-sacs are also discouraged in clause 56
(ResCode).
By providing a through road to Taylors Lane more access opportunities are provided and
traffic would be dispersed more widely than would otherwise be the case. Without an
access to Taylors Lane, traffic would, in the short to medium term, increase pressure on
Bassett Drive/Blucher Street and Elsworth Drive. In the future, once the unnamed road
has been constructed through to Wellington Street, this will be another outlet for traffic
from the residential area to the south of Wellington Street.
Whilst residents have safety concerns regarding sightlines when approaching the
proposed intersection over the crest on Taylors Lane, the Citys Traffic Engineer has
provided advice that it meets the Australian Standard for sight distances in a 50km zone.
It is accepted that the proposition for dealing with traffic for this development is
something of an interim solution until the currently unnamed road is constructed in the
future. However, it is not uncommon in developing residential areas for short term
compromises to be accepted, in the knowledge that the eventual road network will
operate satisfactorily.
With this in mind the proposed subdivision layout is considered to be appropriate in the
context of the surrounding road network.
Drainage
There is inadequate drainage infrastructure in this part of Strathfieldsaye which means

that the site does not currently have the capacity to drain all 32 lots.
The Citys drainage engineers will shortly be commencing the process of implementing a
Special Charge Scheme to fund construction of a stormwater drainage disposal system
in accordance with the Local Government Act 1989.
Until such time as the Special Charge Scheme or another mechanism for providing a
permanent drainage system is implemented, the Citys engineers have agreed to an
interim drainage solution. The solution is that only stages 1 and 2 of the subdivision can
be acted upon and an area in stage 3 must be utilised as a drainage reserve until there is
a permanent drainage solution for the land.
PAGE 30
For the purpose of defraying any expenses incurred by the City in relation to the
construction of a future drainage system, it will be necessary to enter into a section 173
legal agreement with the landowner.
The legal agreement, which has been agreed to by the applicant, would require the
current landowner to pay for the entire drainage infrastructure across the site, including
connections to lots created in stages 1 and 2. Without this agreement the interim
solution would not be supported by the Citys drainage engineers as it would place a cost
burden on the City as well as future owners of the approved lots in stages 1 and 2.
Other issues raised by residents
The owners of 48A Bassett Drive Each planning application must be considered on
have concerns the proposal will its merits. There is a current proposal for 48A
impact on their own subdivision Basset Drive which has been designed so that it
plans. can connect with the subject land. Approving this
layout would not preclude the subdivision of 48A
Basset Drive.
The drainage issue discussed above also applies
to 48A Basset Drive.
Increased pressure on roads due All residential subdivisions inevitably generate
to high density. traffic impact. This proposal would not result in
movements which would exceed the capacity of
the local road network.
Poor linkages with the town The plan will actually assist with connectivity as
centre including walking and residents of the lots will be able to walk and cycle
cycling. to the town centre once the unnamed road has
been constructed.
No open space provision. It is proposed to levy a 5% public open space
contribution as the site is not large enough to
accommodate self-contained public open space.
Conclusion
This proposal may not be an ideal subdivision design and as one local resident suggests
a more imaginative subdivision could be designed. However, the planning scheme
seeks acceptable outcomes rather than ideal outcomes.
It is considered that on balance the proposal does represent an acceptable outcome

which addresses the competing objectives of providing appropriate housing density
whilst maintaining the character of Strathfieldsaye.
Options
Council, acting as the responsible authority for administering the Planning Scheme, may
approve or refuse the development plan and resolve to: grant a permit, grant a permit
with conditions, or refuse to grant a permit.
PAGE 31
Attachments
Objections
Planning Permit Conditions
1. AMENDED PLANS
Before the plan of subdivision is certified amended plans to the satisfaction of
the responsible authority must be submitted to and approved by the
responsible authority. When approved, the plans will be endorsed and then
form part of the permit. The plans must be generally in accordance with the
plans submitted with the application but modified to show:
(a) The provision of a landscaping plan in accordance with condition 3.
(b) An amendment to stage 3 of the subdivision to accommodate a drainage
reserve should the requirements of condition 12(a) not be met.
Any staging of the development is to be in accordance with a staging plan

approved under this condition. A staging plan must show the following:
i. Details of the proposed staging; and
ii. A requirement that the endorsed plans for that stage must show
compliance with the conditions of the permit as appropriate to that stage;
to the satisfaction of the responsible authority.
2. LAYOUT PLANS
The subdivision, as shown on the endorsed plans, must not be altered without
the prior written consent of the responsible authority.
3. LANDSCAPE PLAN
Before a statement of compliance is issued for each stage of the subdivision a
landscape plan for the relevant stage must be submitted to the satisfaction of
the responsible authority. When approved, the plan will be endorsed and then
form part of the permit. The plan must be prepared by a qualified landscape
architect and show how the landscape design complies with clause 56.05-1 of
the City of Greater Bendigo Planning Scheme.
4. COMPLETION OF LANDSCAPING
Before a statement of compliance is issued for each stage of the subdivision
the landscaping works shown on the endorsed must be carried out and
completed for that stage to the satisfaction of the responsible authority.
5. LANDSCAPING MAINTENANCE
The landscaping works shown on the endorsed plans must be maintained to
the satisfaction of the responsible authority for 24 months after the works are
completed, including that any dead, diseased or damaged plants are to be
replaced.
6. PEDESTRIAN SIGHTLINES
The subdivision must ensure minimum sight lines for pedestrian safety are
provided at the exit lane frontage so as to accord with clause 52.06-8 of the
City of Greater Bendigo Planning Scheme.
PAGE 32
7. SITE DISTANCE AT PROPERTY BOUNDARY

The following standards must be met:
(a) Sight distance at the access driveway must comply with AS/NZS
2890.1:2004 Fig 3.2
(b) A minimum 5 metre by 5 metre corner splay at junctions with arterial roads
and a minimum 3 metre by 3 metre corner splay at other junctions unless
site conditions justify a variation to achieve safe sight lines across corners.
8. CONSTRUCTION OF WORKS
Road works, drainage and other civil works must be constructed in accordance
with the City of Greater Bendigo Infrastructure Design Manual and plans and
specifications approved by the Responsible Authority and must include:-
Internal road
(a) Fully sealed pavement with kerb and channel;
(b) Drainage;
(c) Paved paths;
(d) Underground power
(e) Underground conduits for water, gas, electricity and telephone;
(f) Appropriate intersection and traffication measures;
(g) Appropriate street lighting and signage.
Taylors Lane
(a) Kerb and channel and associated pavement widening;
(b) Drainage;
(c) Paved path on development frontage;
(d) Appropriate street lighting and signage
(e) Appropriate intersection and traffication measures.
Unnamed road
(a) Fully sealed pavement with kerb and channel;
(b) Drainage;
(c) Paved path on western side;
(d) Underground power
(e) Underground conduits for water, gas, electricity and telephone;
(f) Appropriate intersection and traffication measures;
(g) Appropriate street lighting and signage.
9. PROVISION OF SERVICES
The owner of the land must enter into agreements with the relevant authorities
for the provision of water supply, drainage, sewerage facilities, electricity and
gas services to each lot shown on the endorsed plan in accordance with the
authorities requirements and relevant legislation at the time.
10. PUBLIC OPEN SPACE CONTRIBUTION

Before the statement of compliance is issued the applicant or owner must pay
to the responsible authority a sum equivalent to 5% of the site value of all the
land in the subdivision.
11. STAGED SUBDIVISION

The subdivision must proceed in the order of stages as shown on the endorsed
PAGE 33
plan unless otherwise agreed in writing by the responsible authority.
12. SECTION 173 AGREEMENT: DRAINAGE CONTRIBUTIONS

Prior to the certification of any stage of a plan of subdivision under the
Subdivision Act 1988, the owner of the land must enter into an agreement with
the responsible authority under section 173 of the Planning and Environment
Act 1987. The agreement must include the following obligations:
(a) The Owner covenants and agrees that the Owner of stage 3 must pay
drainage contributions to Council for the land with the amount of the
contribution to be agreed between the parties and to the satisfaction of the
responsible authority. The drainage contributions must be paid for the
whole of the site including all land in the previous stages of the subdivision,
in accordance with condition 12(b).
(b) The lots as shown in stage 3 of the endorsed plan must not be included in
any plan of subdivision submitted for certification until payment has been
made for the drainage contributions unless otherwise approved by the
responsible authority.
(c) In the event that the drainage contributions have not been paid prior to the
commencement of stage 3 of the subdivision, the owner must designate a
location for a temporary drainage system within the area shown as stage 3
of the endorsed plan which meets the drainage requirements documented
in condition 13. The owner of the land shall be responsible for the design
and maintenance of the system to the satisfaction of the responsible
authority.
13. DETAILED DRAINAGE

Prior to the certification of the plan of subdivision under the Subdivision Act
1988, plans to the satisfaction of the responsible authority must be submitted to
and approved by the responsible authority. When approved, the plans will be
endorsed and then will form part of the permit. The plans must be drawn to
scale with dimensions. The plans must include:
(a) Direction of stormwater run-off.
(b) A point of discharge for each lot.
(c) Independent drainage for each lot.
(d) Stormwater detention
(e) Stormwater quality
14. DRAINAGE EASEMENTS

The subdivision must provide easements for drainage within and through the
subject land for external outfall drainage to a point of lawful discharge to the
satisfaction of the responsible authority.
15. PUBLIC ASSETS

Before the development starts, the owner or developer must submit to the
responsible authority a written report and photos of any prior damage to public
infrastructure. Listed in the report must be the condition of kerb and channel,
footpath, seal, street lights, signs and other public infrastructure fronting the
property and abutting at least two properties either side of the development.
Unless identified with the written report, any damage to infrastructure post
construction will be attributed to the development. The owner or developer of
the subject land must pay for any damage caused to any public infrastructure
PAGE 34
caused as a result of the development or use permitted by this permit.
16. CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT PLAN

Before the development starts, a Construction Management Plan to the
satisfaction of the Responsible Authority must be submitted to and approved by
the Responsible Authority. When approved, the plan will be endorsed and will
then form part of the Permit. Construction operations on and adjacent to the
site must conform to this endorsed plan. Two copies of the plan must be
submitted. The plan must include the following:
(a) The location of an area on-site to be dedicated for the parking of
construction workers and contractors vehicles;
(b) Days and hours of construction;
(c) Contact details of the project manager on-site
(d) A works timetable;
(e) A communication plan to advise local residents of any excessively noisy
activities such as piling;
(f) Site security;
(g) Erosion & sedimentation control works;
(h) Measures to minimize noise and dust being emitted from the site;
(i) Methods to prevent mud and dirt being transported from the site to
adjacent streets;
(j) The protection measures taken to preserve any identified vegetation;
(k) Access of construction vehicles; and
(l) Any other relevant matter.
17. CONSENT FOR WORK ON ROAD RESERVES

The applicant must comply with:
(a) The Road Management Act 2004.
(b) Road Management (Works and Infrastructure) Regulations 2005.
(c) Road Management (General) Regulations 2005.
with respect to any requirements to notify the Coordinating Authority and/or
seek consent from the Coordinating Authority to undertake works (as defined
in the Act) in, over or under the road reserve. The responsible authority in the
inclusion of this condition on this planning permit is not deemed to have been
notified of, or to have given consent to undertake any works within the road
reserve as proposed in this permit.
18. COLIBAN WATER

(a) The owner is required to provide reticulated water and sewerage services
to each of the lots within the subdivision and comply with any requirements
arising from any effect of the proposed development on Coliban Water
assets. Services are to be provided in accordance with our specifications.
(b) All Coliban Water assets within the subdivision, both existing and
proposed, are to be protected by Registered Easement in favour of Coliban
Region Water Corporation.
19. POWERCOR
(a) The plan of subdivision submitted for certification under the Subdivision Act
1988 shall be referred to Powercor Australia Ltd in accordance with
Section 8 of that Act.
(b) The applicant shall:-
PAGE 35
Provide an electricity supply to all lots in the subdivision in accordance

with Powercors requirements and standards, including the extension,
augmentation or re-arrangement of any existing electricity supply
system, as required by Powercor.
Where buildings or other installations exist on the land to be subdivided
and are connected to the electricity supply, they shall be brought into
compliance with the Service and Installation Rules issued by the
Victorian Electricity Supply Industry. You shall arrange compliance
through a Registered Electrical Contractor and provide to Powercor
Australia Ltd a completed Electrical Safety Certificate in accordance with
Electricity Safe Victorias Electrical Safety System.
The applicant shall provide to Powercor Australia Ltd, a copy of the
version of the plan of subdivision submitted for certification, which shows
any amendments which have been required.
Any buildings must comply with the clearances required by the Electricity
Safety (Installations) Regulations.
Any construction work must comply with Energy Safe Victorias No Go
Zone rules.
20. TELECOMMUNICATIONS
The owner of the land must enter into an agreement with:
A telecommunications network or service provider for the provision of
telecommunication services to each lot shown on the endorsed plan in
accordance with the providers requirements and relevant legislation at the
time.
A suitably qualified person for the provision of fibre ready
telecommunication facilities to each lot shown on the endorsed plan in
accordance with any industry specifications or any standards set by the
Australian Communications and Media Authority, unless the applicant can
demonstrate that the land is in an area where the National Broadband
Network will not be provided by optical fibre.
Before the issue of a Statement of Compliance for any stage of the subdivision
under the Subdivision Act 1988, the owner of the land must provide written
confirmation from:
A telecommunications network or service provider that all lots are
connected to or are ready for connection to telecommunications services in
accordance with the providers requirements and relevant legislation at the
time.
A suitably qualified person that fibre ready telecommunication facilities
have been provided in accordance with any industry specifications or any
standards set by the Australian Communications and Media Authority,
unless the applicant can demonstrate that the land is in an area where the
National Broadband Network will not be provided by optical fibre.
21. DOWNER
The plan of subdivision submitted for certification must be referred to AusNet
Services (Gas) in accordance with section 8 of the Subdivision Act 1988.
22. COUNTRY FIRE AUTHORITY
PAGE 36
Hydrants
(a) Operable hydrants, above or below ground must be provided to the
satisfaction of CFA.
(b) The maximum distance between these hydrants and the rear of all building
envelopes (or in the absence of the building envelope, the rear of all lots)
must be 120m and hydrants must be no more than 200m apart.
(c) Hydrants must be identified as specified in Identification of Street Hydrants
for Firefighting Purposes available under publications on the Country Fire
Authority web site (www.cfa.vic.gov.au)
23. NATIVE VEGETATION OFFSETS

(a) In order to offset the removal of 1.344 hectares of native vegetation
approved as part of this permit, the applicant must provide a native
vegetation offset that meets the following requirements, and is in
accordance with the Permitted clearing of native vegetation Biodiversity
assessment guidelines and the Native vegetation gain scoring manual:
The offset must:
Contribute gain of 0.406 general biodiversity equivalence units;
Be located within the North Central Catchment Management Authority
boundary or Greater Bendigo municipal district;
Have a strategic biodiversity score of at least 0.594.
(b) Offset evidence
i. Before any native vegetation is removed, evidence that an offset has
been secured must be provided to the satisfaction of the responsible
authority. This offset must meet the offset requirements set out in this
permit and be in accordance with the requirements of Permitted clearing
of native vegetation Biodiversity assessment guidelines and the Native
vegetation gain scoring manual. Offset evidence can be either: a) a
credit register extract from the Native Vegetation Credit Register; or
ii. A security agreement, to the required standard, for the offset site or
sites, including a 10-year offset management plan to the satisfaction of
the Department of Environment, Land, Water and Planning and
approved by the Responsible Authority. Every year, for ten years, after
the responsible authority has approved the offset management plan, the
applicant must provide notification of the management actions
undertaken towards implementing the offset management plan, to the
department. An offset site condition statement, including photographs
must be included in this notification.
24. EXPIRY OF THE PERMIT (STAGED SUBDIVISION)

This permit will expire unless:
(a) All stages of the approved subdivision have been certified within five years
of the date of this permit; or
(b) Any stage of the approved subdivision is not completed within five years of
the certification of the plan of subdivision under the Subdivision Act 1988.
The responsible authority may extend the time for certification of a plan of any
stage of the subdivision if a request is made in writing before the permit
expires, or thereafter, within the period allowed by section 69 of the Planning
and Environment Act 1987.
PAGE 37
2.2 PLANNING SCHEME AMENDMENT C236 - APPLY THE PUBLIC

ACQUISITION OVERLAY TO PART OF 264 HIGH STREET
KANGAROO FLAT - CONSIDER AUTHORISATION REQUEST
Author Frank Casimir, Amendments Planner
Responsible Bernie OSullivan, Director Strategy and Growth

Director
Summary/Purpose
Amendment details: This Amendment applies the Public Acquisition Overlay

(PAO) to part of the land at 264 High Street, Kangaroo Flat
to allow its compulsory acquisition by the City for the
upgrade of an existing stormwater drain.
Proponent: City of Greater Bendigo
Key issues: A requirement under the Land Acquisition and
Compensation Act 1986 to enable the City to
compulsorily acquire the land.
The use and development of the land will be restricted
until the compulsory acquisition process is finalised.
The upgrade and maintenance of the existing storm
water drain will be facilitated.
RECOMMENDATION
That the Greater Bendigo City Council resolve to:

1. Request the Minister for Planning to authorise Council to prepare Amendment C236
to the Greater Bendigo Planning Scheme.
2. When Authorised by the Minister, exhibit Amendment C236 to the Greater Bendigo
Planning Scheme giving notification as required for the minimum statutory exhibition
period of one month.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Policy Context

where we live.
PAGE 38
Goal 5: Environmental sustainability

Protect and enhance our environment, conserve our resources and increase
resilience to a changing climate.
The key steps in the Amendment process are summarised below:
Part of 264 High Street, Kangaroo Flat (the subject land) is located in the path of an
existing open stormwater drain. Following complaints received from neighbouring land
owners, the City's Engineering Unit has determined that the drain needs to be upgraded
to operate effectively and also to facilitate its on-going maintenance requirements.
PAGE 39
To upgrade the drain, however, the City needs to acquire the subject land and part of two
other properties which are also located in the path of the drain. Unlike the owners of the
two other properties, the City's Property Services Unit has been unsuccessful in reaching
an agreement with the owners of the subject land regarding the acquisition. As a last
resort, the City's Property Services has resolved to compulsorily acquire the subject land
as provided by the Land Acquisition and Compensation Act 1986 to allow the upgrade
works to proceed.
The Land Acquisition and Compensation Act 1986 sets out the statutory processes that
an authority must comply with when compulsorily acquiring land. As part of this process,
the City is required to apply a PAO to the subject land through a Planning Scheme
Amendment before it can compulsorily acquire it.
The principles for measuring the compensation payable on the compulsory acquisition of
land are also set out in the Land Acquisition and Compensation Act 1986. Under this
legislation, the assessment of the exact amount to be paid is made on the basis of
independent valuation advice, combined with other losses occasioned by the acquisition
together with fees and expenses. The City's Property Services Unit will manage the
compensation payable to the landowner.
Previous Council Decisions
On 20 September 2017, Council resolved to:

"Commence the compulsory acquisition process to acquire land at the rear of 264 High
Street, Kangaroo Flat that is currently used for drainage purposes to enable an upgrade
of the drainage and longer term on-going maintenance to be undertaken by the City of
Greater Bendigo."
Report
The Planning and Environment Act 1987 allows for a Planning Scheme Amendment to
be initiated by a municipal Council, or a Council can respond to a request for an
Amendment by any person or body.
When requesting authorisation from the Minister for Planning, an Explanatory Report
must be submitted that discusses the purpose, effects and strategic justification for the
Amendment. Key issues identified in the Explanatory Report are summarised below.
Land affected by the Amendment
The land affected by the amendment is part of 264 High Street, Kangaroo Flat. The total
area of the land is approximately 1,450 square metres, out of which approximately 388
square metres will be affected by the Amendment. The site is developed with a dwelling
and associated sheds and is zoned General Residential Zone (GRZ) with no overlays.
The land is generally rectangular in shape, measures approximately 9.5 metres by 40
metres and is in the path of an open stormwater drain.
Across High Street to the east and to the south-east, the land is zoned Commercial 1
Zone and is developed for commercial purposes principally with Bunnings Warehouse
and the Charter Hall Lansell Square Shopping Centre and their associated car parks.
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The remaining nearby land is zoned GRZ and predominantly developed for residential
purposes.
The open stormwater drain carries stormwater collected mainly from the Bunnings
Warehouse and Lansell Square Shopping Centre sites for discharge into the Bendigo
Creek, located some 150 metres downstream. The drain crosses an exclusively
residential area before reaching the Bendigo Creek.
Figure 1: The affected land (shown in red)
What the Amendment does
The Amendment proposes to make the following changes to the Greater Bendigo
Planning Scheme:
Applies the Public Acquisition Overlay, (PAO8) to part of 264 High Street, Kangaroo
Flat;
Amends the Schedule to Clause 45.01 (PAO) to identify the land and acquiring
authority for the upgrade of stormwater drainage infrastructure.
Environmental, Social and Economic Impacts
This Amendment will result in a net community benefit because it will allow the upgrade
of an existing stormwater drain. Members of the local community have raised concerns
about the malfunction of this open stormwater drain and the City has agreed that it
should be upgraded.
Environmental Effects
The Amendment will have an overall positive environmental effect as it will allow for this
open stormwater drain to be efficiently maintained, once it is on Council-owned land.
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There is historical evidence that the privately-owned land which is traversed by the drain,
has not always been properly maintained to allow the drain to operate effectively. As a
result, there have been complaints from nearby residents on issues mainly associated
with potential grass fires, flooding and litter settling in the drain
The Amendment would have positive effects as it will allow the City to compulsorily
acquire the land to construct more efficient drainage infrastructure, including the
installation of a gross pollutant trap. This will also subsequently improve the quality of
the stormwater which is currently being discharged into the Bendigo Creek.
Social Effects
Although in general the social effects will be positive, it must be acknowledged that the
owners of the land may be injuriously affected by this Amendment. This is because
there is no certainty that the financial compensation they will receive at the end of the
compulsory acquisition process will be to their expectations. On the other hand, the
Amendment will have positive social effects in the wider community because it will
contribute to addressing the concerns that local residents have been raising about the
impacts of this open drain on the residential amenity of their neighbourhood. Also, the
future, on-going management of the drain would be facilitated and carried out to the
satisfaction of the general community as the land would be in public ownership.
Economic Effects
The Amendment would potentially have a negative economic effect on the affected
landowner because of the various restrictions the Amendment will impose on the land for
its future use and development until the acquisition process is completed. However, the
Land Acquisition and Compensation Act 1986 will ensure that the land owner is fully and
fairly compensated.
Strategic Justification Planning Context
The Amendment is supported by the following clauses in the Greater Bendigo Planning
Scheme:
The objective of clause 11.14-5 Loddon Mallee South (Natural and built environment) is
to protect and enhance the natural and built environment. One of the strategies to
achieve this objective is to protect and improve the condition of the regions important
environmental assets such as forests, wetlands and rivers.
The objective of clause 14.02-2 (Water quality) is to protect water quality. One of the
strategies of this clause is to protect reservoirs, water mains and local storage facilities
from potential contamination. The Amendment is consistent with this clause because the
upgrade of this stormwater drainage infrastructure will contribute to reduce the amount of
waste being discharged into the Bendigo Creek.
Clause 19.03-2 (Water supply, sewerage and drainage) has as objective to plan for the
provision of water supply, sewerage and drainage services that efficiently and effectively
meet State and community needs and protect the environment.
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Local Planning Policy Framework
Clause 21.08 (Environment) has among other objectives the need to maintain and
enhance ground and surface water quality, to reduce pollution of watercourses and to
protect the values of forested land and waterways. The Amendment is consistent with
the relevant objectives set out in this clause.
The City's Property Services Unit has carried out extensive consultation over a significant
period of time with the affected landowner to negotiate the acquisition of the land by
mutual agreement, but with no success.
If the Amendment is authorised by the Minister, formal notices will be given to all
neighbouring land owners and occupiers as required under the Planning and
Environment Act 1987.
In addition, the Amendment documents will also be publicly exhibited for a minimum of a
month, as required under the Planning and Environment Act 1987 and notice given to
prescribed Ministers and public authorities. The Amendment will also be exhibited in the
Government Gazette and the Bendigo Advertiser.
Conclusion
Amendment C236 will allow the City of Greater Bendigo to start the process to
compulsorily acquire land for the purpose of upgrading an existing stormwater drain.
The upgrade of this drain will improve stormwater drainage infrastructure for the benefit
of the surrounding land owners and the Bendigo Creek.
It is recommended that Council seek authorisation from the Minister for Planning to
prepare and exhibit Amendment C236 to the Greater Bendigo Planning Scheme.
Options
Council has the option of:

Supporting the Amendment proposal and making a request to the Minister for
Planning to authorise preparation and exhibition of the Amendment.
Refusing the request to prepare the amendment.
Resource Implications
Officer time will be required to prepare the Amendment documentation for authorisation,
exhibition, manage the exhibition process and liaise with the Minister for Planning.
The City is also responsible for payment of statutory fees and costs incurred in the
processing of the Amendment of approximately $3,500. Other costs may include a
Panel hearing process if the Amendment has unresolved submissions following
exhibition.
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In terms of permit activity, it is not expected that there will be any significant change due
to this Amendment. This is because it is unlikely that the landowner would seek planning
permission for any use or development of the affected land prior to the finalisation of its
compulsory acquisition. Also, once the land is acquired, the City as the acquiring
authority, will not require a planning permit for the proposed works.
Attachments
Explanatory report
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2.3 46-50 & 54-56 HIGH STREET, 65 SHORT STREET AND 80 WATTLE
STREET, BENDIGO - ASPIRE PRECINCT
Author Shannon Rosewarne, Senior Planner

Director
Summary/Purpose
Application details: Use and development of land for a Place of Assembly

(theatre, library learning centre, exhibition space, meeting
space and hall) and food and drink premises, partial
demolition of existing building and brick retaining wall,
demolition of fences, waiver of parking, liquor licence, signage
and alteration of access to a road in a Road Zone 1.
Application No: DU/250/2017
Applicant: Catholic Diocese Sandhurst
Land: 46-50 & 54-56 High Street & 65 Short Street Bendigo
Zoning: Commercial 1 Zone
Special Use Zone 1
Road Zone 1
Overlays: Heritage Overlay 12 & 288
Parking Overlay 1
Design and Development Overlay 20
Consultation 1 August 2017
meeting:
Key considerations: Car parking
Heritage significance
Liquor licence
Amenity impacts
Conclusion: The application is recommended for approval on the basis
that it represents an acceptable outcome with regards to the
requirements of the Greater Bendigo Planning Scheme.
The report considers the permit application and recommends

that the Council issues a Notice of Decision to Grant a
Planning Permit with appropriate conditions.
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RECOMMENDATION
Pursuant to section 61 of the Planning and Environment Act (1987), Greater Bendigo
City Council resolve to issue a Notice of Decision to Grant a Permit for Use and
development of land for a Place of Assembly (theatre, library learning centre, exhibition
space, meeting space and hall) and food and drink premises, partial demolition of
existing building and brick retaining wall, demolition of fences, waiver of parking, liquor
licence, signage and alteration of access to a road in a Road Zone 1 at 46-50 and 54-56
High Street, 65 Short Street and 80 Wattle Street Bendigo subject to the conditions at the
end of this report.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Policy Context

where we live.
Report
The subject site comprises a number of parcels which form four properties known as 65
Short Street, 46-50 and 54-56 High Street and 80 Wattle Street, Bendigo, which together
form the Aspire Precinct site.
No. 65 Short Street is occupied by a small parish hall featuring a slate roof, timber
trusses and decorative cream brickwork. The parish hall is currently used for meetings
and church functions and can cater for up to 80 patrons.
46-50 High Street, located on the corner of Short and High Streets, is developed with the
former Haymes Paint shop, a single storey construction.
54-56 High Street was previously used as a car park in association with the paint shop.
The above three properties are zoned Commercial 1 Zone and are affected by Heritage
Overlay 12, Design and Development Overlay 20 and Parking Overlay 1.
80 Wattle Street contains the Sacred Heart Cathedral, which is zoned Special Use Zone
1 (Private Educational or Religious Institutions), and is affected by Heritage Overlay 288
and the Victorian Heritage Register (VHR) 1340, and Parking Overlay 1.
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There is a significant level difference of approximately 8 metres over the site, with the
gradient gradually increasing from High Street towards the Sacred Heart Cathedral.
High Street is an arterial road zoned Road Zone Category 1 and is managed by
VicRoads. It has a speed limit of 60km/hour with two lanes of traffic in each direction,
with kerbside parking. High Street also contains a tram line. The High and Short Streets
intersection is signalised.
Short Street, Wattle Street and Mackenzie Street are local streets which cater for one
lane of traffic in each direction and angled and/or parallel parking.
Figure 1: Location map showing subject site. Objectors' properties are marked with a star.
Proposal
The proposal involves the use and development of the site for the purpose of a place of
assembly (theatre, library learning centre, exhibition space, meeting space and hall) and
food and drink premises.
The former paint shop building will be converted into a place of assembly which will
comprise an immersive theatre, library learning centre, exhibition space and meeting
space with associated office, retail space, storage and reception areas. It will feature a
large geodesic dome structure on the roof.
The existing parish hall will be modified and extended, with a new caf, meeting room,
foyer area, toilet facilities, lift and associated lobby, plant and waste storage area added.
Proposed materials include bluestone tile cladding, composite sheet metal cladding to
the geodesic dome and the corner of the building in colours to match the tones of the
Cathedrals stone palette, rendered finish in a neutral colour, glazing, metal screens.
The proposal also involves extensive landscaping works which include the construction
of a bluestone paved forecourt and new bluestone stairway to connect the site to the
Sacred Heart Cathedral. (A small portion of the new staircase will be located on the
Cathedral site, however no other works are proposed within this part of the site, known
as 80 Wattle Street.) A timber pergola and shade sails will be constructed along part of
the eastern side of the forecourt area.
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The works will involve the partial demolition of the existing parish hall by removing part of
the northern and eastern walls, demolition of a timber deck and verandah and a toilet
block to allow for the new extensions. The proposal also involves removal of sections of
wall on the northern and western elevations of the former paint shop to create new
openings and connections to the redeveloped parish hall. Partial demolition of a brick
wall on the sites Short Street boundary, and the demolition of another brick retaining wall
and wire fence internal to the site are also proposed.
There is a 5 metre level difference between the two buildings and some excavation will
be required to install a lift and create a service area. Underpinning of the parish hall
building will be required.
The proposal also seeks approval for a waiver of parking, a liquor licence, signage and
alteration of access to a road in a Road Zone 1. Signage comprises signs on the
interpretive centres High and Short Street faades and a sign on the boundary wall on
Short Street adjacent to the parish hall.
Figure 2: Proposed demolition plan lower level
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Figure 3: Proposed demolition plan upper level
Figure 4: Proposed site layout plan and red line licensed area
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Figure 5: Proposed lower level floor plan
Figure 6: Proposed upper level floor plan
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Figure 7: Short Street elevation
Figure 8: Forecourt elevation
Figure 9: North elevation
Figure 10: High Street elevation
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Figure 11: Perspective image (High St)

Clause 11 Settlement
Clause 11.07 Regional Victoria
Clause 11.14 Loddon Mallee South
Clause 13.04-1 Noise abatement
Clause 13.03-1 Use of contaminated and potentially contaminated land
Clause 15.01-1 Urban design
Clause 15.01-2 Urban design principles
Clause 15.03 Heritage conservation
Clause 17 Economic development
Clause 17.01 Business
Clause 18.02-5 Car parking

Clause 21.02 Key issues and influences
Clause 21.07 Economic development
Clause 21.08 Environment
Clause 21.09 Integrated transport and infrastructure

Clause 22.06 Heritage policy
Clause 22.08 Highway entrances and boulevards policy
Clause 22.27 Licensed premises policy
Clause 22.29 Advertising and signage policy
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Other Provisions
Clause 52.05 Advertising signs
Clause 52.06 Car parking
Clause 52.07 Loading and Unloading
Clause 52.27 Licensed premises
Clause 52.29 Land adjacent to a Road Zone Category 1, or a Public Acquisition
Overlay for a Category 1 Road
A planning permit is required to use land for a place of assembly in the Commercial 1
Zone under Clause 34.04-1 of the Planning Scheme. Food and drink premises do not
require a planning permit under this zone.
Buildings and works require a permit under the Commercial Zone (Clause 34.04-4),
Special Use Zone 1 (Clause 37.01-4), Design and Development Overlay (Clause 43.02-
2) and Heritage Overlay (Clause 43.01-1). Demolition and advertising signs also require
a planning permit under the Heritage Overlay, with signage also requiring a permit under
the Advertising Sign Provisions at Clause 52.05.
A waiver of car parking requires a permit under Clause 52.06-3 of the Car Parking
provisions.
A liquor licence requires a planning permit under Clause 52.27 (Licensed Premises).
Alterations to an access on a road in a Road Zone 1 requires a permit under Clause
52.29 of the Planning Scheme.
Referrals
Referral Comment
VicRoads No objection, subject to conditions.
Country Fire Authority No objection, no conditions requested.
Heritage Victoria No objection, no conditions requested.
Public Transport Victoria No objection, subject to conditions.
Department of No objection, subject to conditions.
Environment, Land, Water
and Planning
Environment Protection No objection, subject to conditions
Authority
Traffic & Design No objection, subject to conditions.
Drainage No objection, no conditions requested.
PAGE 53
Referral Comment
Heritage Advisor No objection. Recommended some modifications to the
proposal in relation to the proposed changes to
boundary walls which will be required as a condition of
permit.
Public Notification
The application was advertised by way of notice on the site and letters to adjoining and
nearby owners and occupiers.
As a result of advertising, 12 objections were received, (4 after the consultation meeting)

with the grounds of objection being:
Concerns regarding the proposed waiver of 40 car spaces.
Parking in the area is already difficult due to on street parking being taken by CBD
workers, employees, parents and students of the nearby school, visitors to the
Cathedral and tourists.
Tourist buses and cars are already double parking outside the Cathedral because no
parking is available.
There is insufficient on street parking available in the area. No on-site parking for the
proposal will be detrimental to the amenity of the area and adversely impact on
residential and commercial property owners.
The proposal will lead to a loss of amenity for the residents in the surrounding area,
who already have problems with people parking over driveways and no available on
street spaces for residents, visitors, deliveries or tradespeople or the like to park on a
daily basis.
Resident permit parking should be provided to address parking problems faced by
residents in this area.
If the proposed development of the site is to be staged then provision should be
made for parking on site in the overall plan.
Concerns regarding the traffic report, including the extent of the area surveyed and
the period of time recorded, the likelihood of visitors to the site using alternative
modes of transport, and the claim that the proposed caf is unlikely to become a
destination in its own right.
Concerns that the proposal will result in a significant increase in visitors to the site
who will be more likely to travel by private car than other transport modes, and will
therefore require car parking.
Request for independent parking survey to be carried out.
Concerns regarding the potential for increased traffic congestion and safety, and loss
of any existing on street parking.
Crown land adjoining the site should be considered for off street parking.
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Concerns regarding potential amenity impacts associated with the use and liquor
licence, in particular hours of operation and increased activity near residential
properties at night.
Clarification is sought on whether the parish hall is of heritage significance.
A consultation meeting was held with the applicant and objectors; however the objections
were not resolved. The objections are discussed below.
Planning Assessment
Planning policy
The following clauses of the State and Local Planning Policy Framework and Municipal
Strategic Statement are the most relevant in the consideration of this application.
Clause 11 (Settlement) states that planning is to anticipate and respond to the needs of
existing and future communities through provision of zoned and serviced land for
housing, employment, recreation and open space, commercial and community facilities
and infrastructure. Planning is to recognise the need for, and as far as practicable
contribute towards, amongst other considerations, economic viability, a high standard of
urban design and amenity, energy efficiency and land use and transport integration.
Planning is also to prevent environmental problems created by siting incompatible land
uses close together. The proposal meets these objectives.
PAGE 55
Clause 11.07 (Regional Victoria) aims to develop regions and settlements which have a
strong identity, are prosperous and are environmentally sustainable. Further to this,
Clause 11.14 (Loddon Mallee South) identifies Bendigo as a regional city and strategies
include supporting Bendigo as the major population and growth hub for the region, and
facilitating increased commercial and residential densities, mixed use development and
revitalisation projects for underutilised sites and land in Bendigo. This clause also seeks
to strengthen and diversify the economy, with one of the strategies to achieve this being
supporting and developing emerging and potential growth sectors, including tourism. The
proposal will support the objectives of these policies by reusing existing buildings and
making better use of underutilised land in urban Bendigo and supporting the tourism
sector.
Clause 13.03-1 (Use of contaminated and potentially contaminated land) has the
objective of ensuring that potentially contaminated land is suitable for its intended future
use and development, and that contaminated land is used safely. Investigations
undertaken by the applicant included a preliminary site assessment and soil testing,
which determined that the site is suitable for the proposal, subject to appropriate
remediation measures. Appropriate conditions will be placed on the permit to ensure
these are implemented.
Clause 13.04-1 (Noise abatement) seeks to assist the control of noise effects on
sensitive land uses. Strategies to achieve this objective include ensuring that
development is not prejudiced and community amenity is not reduced by noise
emissions, using a range of building design, urban design and land use separation
techniques as appropriate to the land use functions and character of the area. The
design of the development has taken into account measures to minimise noise
emissions, through the careful location of plant and equipment. The main entrance to the
site is via High Street and the boundary walls along Short Street will assist in minimising
noise emissions from the expanded parish hall. Appropriate conditions will also be
placed on the permit about requirements to comply with EPA requirements regarding
noise.
Clause 15.01-1 (Urban design) seeks to create urban environments that are safe,
functional and provide good quality environments with a sense of place and cultural
identity.
Clause 15.01-2 (Urban design principles) aims to achieve architectural and urban design
outcomes that contribute positively to local urban character and enhance the public
realm while minimising detrimental impact on neighbouring properties. The application
provides an appropriate design response which has considered relevant urban design
principles including context, the public realm, safety, landmarks, views and vistas,
pedestrian spaces, heritage, energy and resource efficiency, architectural quality and
landscape architecture.
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Clause 15.01-3 (Heritage conservation) seeks to ensure the conservation of places of

heritage significance. Strategies to achieve this objective include encouraging
appropriate development that respects places with identified heritage values and creates
a worthy legacy for future generations, retaining those elements that contribute to the
importance of the heritage place, encouraging the conservation and restoration of
contributory elements and supporting adaptive reuse of heritage buildings whose use
has become redundant.
Clause 17.01-1 (Business) aims to encourage development which meet the communitys
needs for retail, entertainment, office and other commercial services and provides net
community benefit in relation to accessibility, efficient infrastructure use and the
aggregation and sustainability of commercial facilities. The site is appropriately zoned for
a place of assembly of this nature.
Clause 18.02-5 (Car parking) has an objective of ensuring an adequate supply of car
parking that is appropriately designed and located. A waiver of car parking is sought as
part of the application. A partial reduction is appropriate in this instance, in addition to a
financial contribution in lieu of 14 spaces, to address the likely demand during business
hours, when on street parking less likely to be available. In time, this contribution will
provide for additional public parking within the CBD area, as discussed further below.
Clause 21.07 (Economic development) notes that Greater Bendigo is a key regional city
and major population and economic growth hub for the Loddon Mallee South region. The
proposal will make a positive contribution to the local economy and provide employment
opportunities in the tourism, education and hospitality industries.
Clause 21.09 (Integrated transport and infrastructure) refers to the principles of ITLUS
(Connecting Greater Bendigo Integrated Transport and Land Use Strategy, 2015). One
of the objectives of this clause is to increase the number of residents and visitors who
walk or cycle, with a strategy to achieve this objective being to prioritise active transport
over private vehicle use. The proposal encourages the use of alternative modes of
transport through the provision of bicycle racks and shower facilities.
Clause 22.06 (Heritage Policy) seeks to maintain and enhance the significance of
heritage places while accommodating the needs of residents to adapt and develop such
places. Objectives of the policy include retaining heritage assets for the enjoyment,
education and experience of residents, visitors and future generations of the municipality,
ensuring that new development is sympathetic with the appearance and character and
maintains the significance of heritage places, including surrounding precincts, and
encouraging the sympathetic re-use and adaptation of heritage places so that such
places are maintained and enhanced. The proposal is consistent with these objectives.
An assessment of the proposal against the policy is provided below.
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Clause 22.08 (Highway entrances and boulevards policy) recognises highways and other
main roads located in Greater Bendigo as significant assets which provide for important
transport opportunities and create an impression of the municipality. The proposal is
consistent with the objectives and requirements of this policy in that the development is
of an appropriate scale and design and will make a positive contribution to the High
Street streetscape. The design recognises the heritage qualities of the precinct and
adjoining Sacred Heart Cathedral. No new access points are proposed onto High Street,
existing street trees will be maintained, and the site is suitably zoned for commercial use
Clause 22.27 (Licensed Premises Policy) aims to manage licensed premises within the
City of Greater Bendigo, including location, patron capacity and hours of operation to
protect the amenity of surrounding areas and to reduce the incidence of anti-social
behaviour and the subsequent impact on the amenity of the area.
The proposal includes a liquor licence in association with the proposed caf and parish
hall. The parish hall will cater for functions of up to 120 patrons and it is anticipated that
the caf will have an area of 60 square metres. Outdoor areas used in conjunction with
these parts of the site are also proposed to be included within the licensed area.
The application generally meets the requirements of this policy. While the policy
discourages licensed premises within 100 metres of a residential area, this site is located
on the edge of the Bendigo CBD and is zoned Commercial 1 Zone. The proposed hours
of operation are considered reasonable in this context.
The site is located outside the identified Entertainment Precinct within the Bendigo CBD.
The caf will operate between 7.00am and 6.00pm. Hours of operation for the parish hall
have not been specified, however the proposed licensed hours are 10.00am 12.00am
seven days a week, with the exception of Good Friday and ANZAC Day where the hours
will be 12.00 noon to 12.00 am the following morning. The applicant has advised they
intend to become a signatory to the Bendigo Liquor Accord.
The policy states that licensed premises are to provide car parking as required in
accordance with the Clause 52.06 (Car Parking). No car parking is proposed in this case.
It can be argued that there are many other examples of licensed premises which dont
provide for on-site car parking within the municipality. While on street parking in the
surrounding streets is typically heavily utilised during business hours, sufficient on street
parking is likely to be available outside business hours and on weekends to cater for the
anticipated peak periods for the premises, when functions are likely to be held.
Clause 22.29 contains the Citys Advertising and Signage Policy which seeks to protect
the public amenity of the municipality from distracting and dominating signage and
advertising, particularly in areas of high sensitivity including areas of heritage
significance, neighbourhood character, and along City and township entrances. The
proposed signage is consistent with the objectives and requirements of this policy.
Use
The proposal involves the use of the land for a place of assembly, which is defined as
land where people congregate for religious or cultural activities, entertainment, or
meetings.
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The proposal is generally compatible with the surrounding area, which comprises a mix
of residential and commercial uses.
The interpretive centre will operate 7 days a week, generally from 9.00am to 6.00pm.
Evening sessions for special events or screenings may be held occasionally outside
these times. As noted above, the parish hall will operate up to 12.00am at night and will
be used for meetings, private functions and church events.
The application has been assessed against the decision guidelines of the zone and is
considered satisfactory. The zoning of the land allows for a range of commercial uses,
including retail, office, business, entertainment and community uses. The site is well
located close to the centre of Bendigo and can take advantage of existing infrastructure.
No adverse traffic impacts have been raised by the Citys Engineers or VicRoads.
Buildings and works/urban design
The proposed buildings and works have been considered against the requirements of the
Commercial 1 Zone and Design and Development Overlay 20 (DDO20).
The scale, design and appearance of the development are appropriate to the site and
surrounds. DDO12 relates to the High Street Boulevard (between Shamrock Street and
Short Street). This overlay seeks to promote High Street as a key boulevard entrance
and encourages higher scale, well designed development that promotes diversity in land
uses fronting High Street, and lower scale development where commercial sites interface
with residential properties, heritage buildings or provide protected views to the Central
Deborah Poppet Head and Sacred Heart Cathedral. The overlay encourages active
frontages along High Street and Short Street and car parking that has minimal impact on
the streetscape, and protection of street trees.
The site is located within an area where the preferred height for new development is 14
metres (medium scale) under the DDO20. The height of the proposed extensions to the
parish hall will be in line with the existing eave height of the building, and the works to the
former paint shop will essentially involve recladding the exterior, creating some new
openings and installing the dome feature on the roof to a height of 13.1 metres. The
proposal is slightly lower than the preferred height of 14 metres, however the proposed
additions are relatively minor and will not dominate the streetscape or detract from views
to the Cathedral.
The proposed landscaping works, including the construction of the forecourt and
staircase, will complement the development, improve the appearance of the site and
make a positive contribution to the streetscape and provide pedestrian connections
through the site. Bicycle parking is proposed adjacent to the outdoor dining area within
the forecourt area, which will encourage visitors to the site to use alternative modes of
transport.
Provision has been made for service areas for storage, waste, plant and equipment.
Deliveries can be accommodated within the existing driveway area adjacent to the
Cathedral.
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The design of the development has taken environmentally sustainable development

principles into account, including ventilation, double glazing, energy efficient lighting as
well as the adaptive reuse of existing buildings. The proposal has maintained an active
frontage to High Street as well as improved pedestrian connections from High Street to
the Sacred Heart Cathedral.
A detailed assessment of car parking demand and availability is provided below. Traffic
impacts have been considered by the Citys Traffic Engineer and VicRoads who had no
objection to the proposal subject to conditions, including that all existing unused access
points on High Street be removed with naturestrips, and kerb and channel reinstated,
that all deliveries and waste collection are to the site via Short Street, and that any
changes to on street parking on High Street will be subject to further plans and approval
by VicRoads.
It is recommended that a detailed landscaping plan, lighting plan, schedule of colours,

materials and finishes and a Construction Management Plan be required to be submitted
for approval as conditions of permit.
A preliminary environmental investigation was undertaken for the site which found that
there is some contamination present. The report recommended that the contaminated
material be removed and disposed of. The EPA had no objection to the application,
subject to conditions of permit requiring the preparation of a soil management plan, and
disposal of any contaminated material in accordance with EPA guidelines.
Car parking
The main concern objectors have raised about the proposal is the waiver of parking and
amenity impacts associated with increased on street parking, particularly in the
surrounding residential streets. No on-site parking is proposed to be provided as part of
the development.
The objectors state that on-street parking within the streets adjoining the site is already
at capacity and residents and their visitors have difficulty accessing on street spaces due
to them usually being fully occupied by CBD workers during business hours. Some of the
objections have called for resident parking permits to address this issue. Objectors also
cited existing parking problems resulting from buses double parking within the vicinity of
the Cathedral.
Some of the objections also challenged assumptions made in the traffic report submitted
with the application.
Under the Planning Scheme, the proposal requires 40 spaces to be provided. The
existing premises currently provides for 8 spaces within an informal car park. These
spaces will be lost to facilitate the development on the site. A waiver of the total
requirement for 40 spaces has been sought.
The site is also affected by Schedule 1 to the Parking Overlay which seeks:
To provide car parking in the Bendigo City Centre that promotes a vibrant and
efficient use of urban space, encourages sustainable transport options and reflects
the conditions, opportunities and needs of the area.
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To provide future parking through a combination of on-site and off-site parking, with
preference for the provision of off-site public parking facilities in strategic locations.
To provide for the collection of financial contributions to contribute to the construction
of public car parking facilities. To implement sustainable transport initiatives which
reduce demand for parking within the precinct.
The application has been assessed against the decision guidelines at Clause 52.06-7
(Car Parking provisions) and Clause 45.09-5 (Parking Overlay) of the Planning Scheme.
A Traffic and Transport Impact Assessment was submitted as part of the application. It
included a survey of car parking availability in the vicinity of the site and a car parking
demand assessment for the proposal. The survey was undertaken on 9 and 10
December 2016 between 9.00am and 5.00pm. The survey recorded on and off street car
parking availability within 400 metres walking distance of the site.
A total of 1,420 on street car spaces and off street car spaces within public car parks
were recorded within this area, with 723 spaces within the survey area being unrestricted
on and off street spaces. The survey found that there was a vacancy of 241 spaces
overall during the peak period, with 77 of these spaces being unrestricted spaces. As
such, there is a relatively low vacancy rate of approximately 10% during peak periods,
meaning that there is high demand for long term spaces within this locality, however by
5pm a minimum of 343 unrestricted spaces were available within the study area.
The report stated that the use is expected to generate a demand for 14 spaces
throughout the day, incorporating 6 staff (long term) and 8 visitor (short term) spaces. It
further stated that when the parish hall is booked at capacity, this demand could be
increased by a further 12 spaces. The assessment makes some assumptions that actual
demand for spaces could be reduced based on patrons (visitors to the city) making a
multi-purpose trip to the CBD area, and the likelihood of groups, e.g. tours or schools,
and other visitors travelling to the site by bus or tram.
As noted previously, line-marked on-street parking is available along High Street, Short
Street, Mackenzie Street and Wattle Street. Some of these spaces are time restricted for
short term parking. The Citys Parking Unit advised parking restrictions on Short Street
immediately adjacent to the site could be reviewed once the use starts operating, with
potential to change a number of currently unrestricted spaces to time restricted parking.
The applicant has indicated they would be prepared to pay any necessary costs for new
signage to achieve this, however this type of parking review sits outside the planning
permit assessment process as it relates to Councils parking policies, and should not be
imposed as a condition of permit.
Public transport is available to the site, with bus routes No.5 and No.64 operating along
High Street, with stops near Short Street. As such, there is potential for patrons and staff
to use public transport to access the site. The application also notes the tram line runs
along High Street, with stops at Myrtle Street and View Street.
In response to objectors' requests for resident parking permits, under the Citys current
Resident Parking Permit Policy, permits are only issued where properties do not have
off-street parking (ie. no driveway), have no reasonable opportunity to modify the
property to provide parking and where directly adjacent on-street parking is time
restricted. There would be very few residential properties in the vicinity of the site that
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would likely meet these criteria. It is noted that the Community Plan for 2017-2021
includes an action to review the Bendigo CBD Parking Strategy in 2018, which will
include the Resident Parking Policy.
There is no record of any previous contributions for the site made towards the provision
of car parking facilities. Limited opportunity exists for parking within the site, without
compromising the design of the proposal, and considering the topography of the land.
The overall benefits of the proposal will outweigh the need to provide the full number of
on-site spaces, and the current proposal will make more efficient use of the land.
A number of bicycle racks are proposed to be provided on site, and the proposed new
amenities will include shower facilities which could serve an end of trip need, if staff were
to cycle to work.
It is likely that there is sufficient on street capacity to cater for the peak demand
generated by the use within a reasonable walking distance of the site. It is likely that the
peak periods for the parish hall will be outside normal business hours, when there will be
less take up of the on street parking by CBD workers and staff and parents associated
with the nearby school.
It is recognised that demand for unrestricted parking close to the CBD area is high and
there is limited vacancy in the existing on street spaces. However, taking into account
local policy which seeks to minimise reliance on private vehicles and promote alternative
forms of transport, the location of the site on the edge of the CBD, the likely demand for
car spaces, the availability and proximity of public transport the site, and the parking
survey finding that there is a limited vacancy available within surrounding on street and
public parking areas, it is considered that a partial reduction in the total number of
spaces is appropriate in this case.
As demand for on street spaces is high in this location, it is recommended that 14 car
spaces should be offset by a payment-in-lieu. This is based on the lower end of the
estimated demand generated by the use. A condition of permit will require payment of
the full amount prior to the occupation of the development, or alternatively, payment via
instalments, as per a Section 173 Agreement over a period of 5 years, commencing one
year after the date the development is occupied. Over time, this contribution will be used
towards providing additional public parking or parking solutions within the CBD area.
Heritage
The site forms part of Heritage Overlay 12 which relates to the Short Street Precinct
identified within the Eaglehawk and Bendigo Heritage Study (1993). The Study notes that
this precinct contains some of Bendigos most prestigious private residences, typically
grouped close to the citys ecclesiastical buildings. It contains some of the first residential
allotments sold in the township and some of the earliest church buildings and reserves.
Some of the objections received sought clarification on whether the parish hall building is
of heritage significance.
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The buildings on the site have not been identified as being of individual significance. The
former paint shop dates from the late 20th century and is not contributory to the precinct.
The parish hall has a cream brick faade circa 1950s-60s but it has a slate roof, which
suggests the building was constructed at an earlier date. The timber verandah and the
toilet block which are proposed to be demolished appear to be later additions.
The application has been assessed against the Citys Heritage Policy at Clause 22.06 of
the Planning Scheme and the decision guidelines of the Heritage Overlay, and the
proposed buildings and works are considered an appropriate outcome.
The proposal was generally supported by the Citys Heritage Advisor, however it was
recommended that some minor modifications to the proposal be made with regard to
changes to the existing brick boundary wall. As noted previously, part of the existing
cream brick boundary wall is proposed to be removed to create a pedestrian link to the
site from Short Street, and a new section of wall is to be constructed.
The scheme to revitalise this important site is supported. The buildings themselves
make little contribution to the precinct and all changes are supported except for rendering
over the brickwork (for the boundary wall). The extensive cream brickwork is now over
half a century old and has a patina and texture which complements and contributes to
the precinct. The Statement of Significance specifically mentions roadside detail in the
form of planting and garden wall using brick and stone, and matching protrusions of
natural stone often occurring at the street edge.
A render is unlikely to age well or create the finely textured natural finish of a good brick
wall. The section of wall to be demolished has interesting brick detailing to match the
building, and a nicely aged coping. The change to the line of wall is not opposed,
however the reuse of the existing materials is preferred to an entirely new short section
of rendered wall. It would be preferable to retain a consistent wall material along Short
Street and rebuild the new section of wall by reusing the cream bricks if possible and
reinstating the coping and the decorative narrow brick pattern which provides a visual tie
between the wall and the building.
The proposal meets the intent of the policy and Heritage Overlay. Much of the parish hall
building will be retained and the proposed extensions will be clearly delineated as new
additions to the site. The scale of the additions will maintain the prominence of the
existing parish hall. The proposed signage is appropriate to the scale of the building, is
appropriately located and will not be dominant within the streetscape.
Overall, the proposal will not adversely affect the significance of the heritage place. The
location, bulk, form and appearance of the proposed additions and the proposed
materials are acceptable within the streetscape. The changes recommended for the
boundary wall will be required as a condition of permit.
Liquor licence
Some concerns were raised by objectors about increased activity at night, uncertainty
about the proposed hours of operation, concern about potential amenity impacts on
residents in Short Street.
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The proposed licensed area will include the parish hall and extension, an outdoor paved
area adjoining this, the proposed caf and an outdoor area forming part of the proposed
paved forecourt. The caf will generally operate between 7.00am and 6.00pm.
While the proposed changes to expand the parish hall to cater for up to 120 patrons are
likely to result in some additional pedestrian and vehicle movements on Short Street,
particularly during the evenings and on weekends, the proposed hours of operation are
not excessive, do not exceed those recommended in the Citys policy and are considered
reasonable given the context of the site and nature of the use. The parish hall is already
used for meetings and church functions for both day time and evening events throughout
the week and currently caters for up to 80 patrons. Alcohol consumption is likely to occur
along with the serving of meals.
Appropriate conditions are proposed on the permit to limit the hours in which alcohol can
be served on the site and number of patrons able to be accommodated within the parish
hall premises, and require music and noise levels to be in accordance with EPA
requirements to ensure amenity impacts can be effectively managed.
Conclusion
Overall, the proposal will have positive economic and social impacts for the city and is a
good planning outcome. The proposal presents an appropriate urban design for the site
and will enable the effective reuse of existing buildings within central Bendigo, without
adversely impacting on the Sacred Heart Cathedral, which is of State level heritage
significance, or the wider heritage precinct.
The use will support the local hospitality, tourism and education sectors and provide
employment opportunities. A partial reduction in the number of car spaces required for
the use is considered appropriate, in addition to a financial contribution in lieu of 14 cars
spaces for the reasons outlined above.
Appropriate conditions on the permit will ensure amenity impacts can be effectively
managed.
It is therefore recommended that Council support the proposal and issue a Notice of
Decision to Grant a Permit, subject to conditions.
Options
resolve to: grant a permit, grant a permit with conditions, or refuse to grant a permit.
Attachments
Objections
PAGE 64
Proposed Notice of Decision Conditions
1. MODIFIED PLAN REQUIRED

Before the use and/or development start(s), amended plans to the satisfaction of
the responsible authority must be submitted to and approved by the responsible
authority. When approved, the plans will be endorsed and will then form part of
the permit. The plans must be drawn to scale with dimensions and two copies
must be provided. The plans must be generally in accordance with the plans
submitted with the application but modified to show:
(a) The reuse of the existing materials and reinstatement of coping and
decorative narrow brick pattern in the reconstructed section of boundary wall
and deletion of reference to rendered finish.
(b) The deletion of bollards on High Street, the removal of existing crossovers
and the reinstatement of kerb and channel.
(c) Dimensions and areas of advertising signs
(d) A lighting plan for any external lighting to be installed on the site.
2. PLANS NOT TO BE ALTERED

The use permitted by this permit as described in the endorsed documents and
shown in the endorsed plans must not be altered or modified (for any reason)
except with the prior written consent of the responsible authority.
3. SERVICE OF ALCOHOL
Except with the prior written consent of the responsible authority, the serving of
liquor permitted by this permit may only occur between the following times:
Monday Sunday between 10 am and 12am
Good Friday and Anzac Day between 12 noon and 12 am.
4. LIQUOR LICENCE DOCUMENT

The applicant must provide (for Council records) an original copy of any new
liquor licence within 1 month of issue by Liquor Licensing Victoria.
5. MAXIMUM PATRON NUMBERS

No more than 120 patrons may be present on the Parish Hall premises at any
one time without the written consent of the responsible authority.
6. CONTROL OF MUSIC NOISE

Noise levels emanating from the premises must comply with the recommended
levels as set out in the guidelines for the Control of Music Noise from Public
Premises State Environment Protection Policy No. N-2 to the satisfaction of the
7. COMPLY WITH STATE NOISE POLICY N-1

Noise emissions must comply with State Environment Protection Policy (Control
of Noise from Commerce, Industry and Trade) No. N-1.
8. AMENITY OF LOCALITY
The use permitted by this permit must not, in the opinion of the responsible
authority, adversely affect the amenity of the locality by means of noise
emissions, and / or patron behaviour.
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9. LOADING AND UNLOADING

The loading and unloading of vehicles and the delivery of goods must at all times
be undertaken within the boundaries of the subject land.
10. SCHEDULE OF MATERIALS

Prior to the commencement of development a schedule of the proposed
materials and colours to be used for the building, including samples, shall be
submitted to and approved in writing by the responsible authority.
11. GENERAL EXTERIOR TREATMENT

The exterior treatment of the building(s) permitted by this permit including all
exterior decoration, materials, finishes and colours must be to the satisfaction of
the responsible authority. The exterior treatment of the building(s) must be
maintained to the satisfaction of the responsible authority.
12. REFRIGERATION AND AIR CONDITIONING EQUIPMENT

Any equipment required for refrigeration, air-conditioning, heating and the like
must be suitably insulated to EPA standards for the purpose of reducing noise
emissions and must be located so as to not be highly visible from the street to
the satisfaction of the responsible authority.
13. PLANT, EQUIPMENT OR FEATURES ON ROOF

No plant, equipment, services or architectural features other than those shown
on the endorsed plans are permitted above the roof level of the building(s)
without the written consent of the responsible authority.
14. LANDSCAPE PLAN

Before the development starts, a landscape plan to the satisfaction of the
responsible authority must be submitted to and approved by the responsible
authority. When approved, the plan will be endorsed and will then form part of
the permit. The plan must be drawn to scale with dimensions and two copies
must be provided.
The plan must show:

(a) Details of surface finishes of paved areas and retaining walls
(b) Planting schedule of all proposed trees including botanical names, common
names, pot sizes, sizes at maturity, and quantities of each plant
All species selected must be to the satisfaction of the responsible authority.
15. LANDSCAPING WORKS

Before the use/occupation of the development starts or by such later date as is
approved by the responsible authority in writing, the landscaping works shown on
the endorsed plans must be carried out and completed to the satisfaction of the
16. LANDSCAPING MAINTENANCE

The landscaping shown on the endorsed plans must be maintained to the
satisfaction of the responsible authority, including that any dead, diseased or
damaged plants are to be replaced.
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17. GENERAL DRAINAGE

The proposed building(s) and works must be drained to the satisfaction of the
City of Greater Bendigo as the responsible drainage authority.
18. FINANCIAL CONTRIBUTION IN LIEU OF CAR SPACES

Prior to the occupation of the development the applicant or owner must either:
(a) Pay the City of Greater Bendigo the amount of $150,674.58 being payment-
in-lieu of providing 14 car spaces on site; or
(b) Enter into a section 173 agreement to pay the amount of $150,674.58 being
payment-in-lieu of providing 14 car spaces by annual instalment, with the first
payment to commence on the first anniversary of the completion of the
development, and subsequent payments to be made over a period of 5 years.
19. VEHICLE CROSSING REMOVAL

All disused or redundant vehicle crossings must be removed and the area
reinstated to kerb and channel to the satisfaction of the responsible authority.
20. CONSENT FOR WORK ON ROAD RESERVES

A Works within Road Reserves permit must be obtained from the City of Greater
Bendigo Engineering Unit prior to any work commencing in the road reserve.
The applicant must comply with:

(a) The Road Management Act 2004,
(b) Road Management (Works and Infrastructure) Regulations 2005, and
(c) Road Management (General) Regulations 2005
with respect to any requirements to notify the Coordinating Authority and/or seek
consent from the Coordinating Authority to undertake works (as defined in the
Act) in, over or under the road reserve. The responsible authority in the inclusion
of this condition on this planning permit is not deemed to have been notified of,
or to have given consent, to undertake any works within the road reserve as
proposed in this permit.
21. CONSTRUCTION PHASE

All activities associated with the construction of the development permitted by
this permit must be carried out to the satisfaction of the responsible authority and
all care must be taken to minimise the effect of such activities on the amenity of
the locality.
22. CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT PLAN

Prior to commencement of the development, a detailed construction and
demolition management plan must be submitted to and be approved by the
Responsible Authority. The construction management plan must include at a
minimum the following items:
(a) Proposed operating hours, noise and vibration controls
(b) Dust management
(c) Traffic management including loading and unloading provision for
construction materials
(d) Proposed parking provision and how this will be managed
(e) Details of notification process for noisier related activities such as demolition
and excavation to affected neighbours. This should include giving as much
PAGE 67
notice as possible.
(f) Details of the extent of periods of noise activities and how they will be
undertaken to minimise impact on nearby neighbours.
(g) Appointment of principal contact person on-site for community enquiries.
23. VICROADS
The loading and unloading of goods associated with this development must be
undertaken from Short Street. That is, the loading and unloading of goods is not
permitted onto High Street.
24. VICROADS
The collection of waste must be undertaken on the local road and not onto High
Street.
25. VICROADS
Prior to the commencement of any development within the subject land, a plan
must be submitted and approved by the Roads Corporation showing the:
(a) Removal of the three existing driveway laybacks on High Street
(b) The reinstatement of the naturestrip area on High Street; and
(c) Any amended on-street parking and parking signs.
26. VICROADS
Prior to the development hereby approved comes into use, all vehicular
crossover removal and on-street parking works must be completed to the
satisfaction of and at no cost to the Roads Corporation.
27. DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENT, LAND, WATER AND PLANNING

(a) No access is permitted to the subject land via the Crown land.
(b) Adjoining Crown land must not be used for truck turning areas, entry points,
parking areas or temporary stack sites during the construction of buildings or
works.
(c) No polluted and/or sediment laden runoff is to be discharged directly or
indirectly onto Crown land. Overland flows must be maintained at the same
rate post-development as on the undeveloped land.
28. PUBLIC TRANSPORT VICTORIA

The permit holder must take all reasonable steps to ensure that disruption to bus
operation along High Street is kept to a minimum during the construction of the
development. Foreseen disruptions to bus operations and mitigation measures
must be communicated to Public Transport Victoria fourteen (14) days prior.
29. ENVIRONMENT PROTECTION AUTHORITY

(a) A Soil Management Plan, taking into account the recommendations of the
Geotechnical and Preliminary Environmental Investigation prepared by GTS
Geotechnical Testing Services dated September 2015, must be prepared and
implemented.
(b) All soil is to be handled in accordance with EPA Publication IWRG621 Soil
Hazard Categorisation and Management 2009 or as amended.
(c) All industrial waste generated during construction must be managed in
accordance with EPAs Industrial Waste Resource Guidelines 2009.
PAGE 68
30. EXPIRY DATE

This permit will expire if the development permitted by this permit is not
completed and the use permitted by this permit is not commenced within 2 years
from the date hereof or if the use is discontinued for a period of 2 years. The
time within which the development must be completed and the use must
commence may, on written request made before or within 6 months after the
expiry of this permit where the development has not yet started or 12 months
where the development has commenced, be extended by the responsible
authority.
PAGE 69
2.4 1 AVERYS ROAD, EAGLEHAWK 3556 - BUILDINGS AND WORKS

FOR A TELECOMMUNICATION FACILITY (35 METRE POLE; AND
ASSOCIATED EQUIPMENT IN BOLLARDED COMPOUND)
Author Peter O'Brien, Planning Coordinator

Director
Summary/Purpose
Application details: Buildings and works for a telecommunication facility (35 metre
pole; and associated equipment in bollarded compound)
Application No: DP/80/2017
Applicant: Optus Mobile Pty Ltd
Land: 1 Averys Road, EAGLEHAWK 3556
Zoning: Special Use Zone 4 and part General Residential Zone
Overlays: Bushfire Management Overlay (Part)
No. of objections: 15 (1 has since been withdrawn)
Consultation 14 September 2017
meeting:
Key considerations: Compliance with State and Local Policy, the Zone, A Code of
Practice for Telecommunications Facilities in Victoria 2004;
and objector concerns.
Conclusion: Assessment of the proposal against key considerations listed
above concludes that the facility represents an acceptable
planning outcome. This report recommends that Council
resolve to issue a Notice of Decision to Grant a Permit,
subject to conditions.
RECOMMENDATION
City Council resolve to issue a Notice of Decision to Grant a Permit to allow buildings
and works for a telecommunication facility (35 metre pole; and associated equipment in
bollarded compound) at 1 Averys Road, EAGLEHAWK 3556 subject to the conditions at
the end of this report.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
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Policy Context

where we live.
Report
The application site is the Neangar Park Golf Course which has an area of approximately
47 hectares. The site is bounded by Averys Road, Howard Street, Kingston Drive and
Jobs Gully Road.
Figure 1: Location map showing subject site. Objector properties are marked with stars. One objector
property is not shown owing to their location in relation to the application site.
Adjoining and adjacent land uses are mostly that of dwellings on residentially zoned land.
There is some Crown Land close to the application site including land forming part of the
Eaglehawk Remembrance Park.
PAGE 71
Proposal
The application proposes the construction of a 35 metre high pole (concrete); associated
equipment, and a 7 x 7 metre leased area that will be delineated from the balance of the
land by the use of bollards.
Figure 2: Elevation plan.
PAGE 72
Figure 3: Part site plan.
Figure 4: Location plan showing the originally applied for location (in red) and amended location (in
amber) of proposed facility. The existing Telstra facility is shown in green.
PAGE 73
The facility is proposed to be located 120 metres north of the initial proposed location
(shown in red). The proposed setback from Averys Road is now approximately 180
metres (an increase of approximately 100 metres). The proposed facility will be located
closer to Howard Street than was the case; this setback is approximately 220 metres.
Site Selection Process
Being in an urban part of Bendigo, potential co-location opportunities were identified by

Optus and their multi-discipline team. One obvious candidate was the existing Telstra
facility on the golf course. Co-locating on an existing facility does not require any
planning approval.
Unfortunately the existing tower could not be used for several reasons, including a lack
of structural capacity to carry the require equipment; as well as having to locate their
equipment at a lower level on the tower which would mean Optuss coverage objectives
were not met.
With a co-location option not being possible, the applicant explored locations elsewhere
within the golf course that could be serviced (i.e. be powered); easily accessed for
construction and maintenance purposes and one which would minimise the visual impact
of the facility.
The initial facility was applied for and publically advertised. As a result of the
consultation process that involved objectors, the Ward Councillors and the Planning
Department, the application site was revised to the location now proposed.
Why a permit is required?
In this case a permit is required as Clause 52.19 requires a permit to construct a building
or construct or carry out works for a telecommunications facility which is not a low
impact facility as noted in the relevant Commonwealth Government determination. The
following clauses are relevant in the consideration of this proposal:

Clause 10.04 Integrated decision making;
Clause 11.04-6 A State of Cities;
Clause 11.05-1 - Regional settlement networks;
Clause 11.05-4 - Regional planning strategies and principles;
Clause 11.12 - Loddon Mallee south regional growth (Clauses 11.12-1 to 11.12-6
inclusive);
Clause 17 - Economic development;
Clause 18.04-2 Planning for airports; and
Clause 19.03-4 Telecommunications.
PAGE 74

Clause 21.05 Compact Greater Bendigo; and
Clause 21.07 Economic Development.
Other Provisions
Clause 37.01 Special Use Zone 4 (Private Sport and Recreation Facilities);
Clause 52.19 Telecommunications Facilities;
Clause 65 Decision Guidelines; and
Clause 81.01 Incorporated Documents (including Bendigo Aerodrome Obstacle
Limitation Surfaces, June 2012).
Public Notification
The application was first advertised in April/May 2017. Notice took the form of direct mail
notification to 192 adjoining, adjacent and nearby owners and occupiers of land. A public
notice was also placed in the Bendigo Advertiser. The grounds of objection raised were:
Health concerns regarding Electro Magnetic Emissions (EME);
Impact on property values;
Visual impact;
Site selection including:
o Merit of alternative sites within the golf course;
o Why isnt the facility being added to the existing Telstra tower; and
o The need for a new site in the area.
Disappointment that the first the community knew of the proposal was the planning
application notice.
A consultation meeting was conducted on 14 September 2017; and following that the
applicant amended their application proposing the alternate location for the facility.
Objectors to the permit application received formal notification of the amended location in
October/November 2017. One objection was subsequently withdrawn.
The relevant planning issues raised by the application are discussed below.
Planning Assessment
State and Local Planning Policies:
Clause 11 of the Planning Scheme recognizes the importance of Bendigo to the Loddon
Mallee South Region and a State as a whole. The clause notes a strategy as being to:
Support Bendigo as the regional city and the major population and economic growth hub
for the region, offering a range of employment and services.
The provision of telecommunications infrastructure can be viewed as supporting this

higher order strategy.
PAGE 75
Clause 18.04-2 Planning for airports has an objective to strengthen the role of Victorias
airports within the States economic and transport infrastructure and protect their ongoing
operation with a strategy being to protect airports from incompatible land-uses.
Policy guidance regarding telecommunications is also found at clause 19.03-4 of the

Planning Scheme which has objectives to: facilitate the orderly development, extension
and maintenance of telecommunication infrastructure.
Strategies to achieve this objective include:

Facilitate the upgrading and maintenance of telecommunications facilities.
Ensure that modern telecommunications facilities are widely accessible to business,
industry and the community.
Ensure the communications technology needs of business, domestic, entertainment
and community services are met.
Do not prohibit the use of land for a telecommunications facility in any zone.
Encourage the continued deployment of broadband telecommunications services that
are easily accessible by:
o Increasing and improving access for all sectors of the community to the
broadband telecommunications trunk network.
o Supporting access to transport and other public corridors for the deployment of
broadband networks in order to encourage infrastructure investment and reduce
investor risk.
In considering proposals for telecommunication services, seek a balance between the
provision of important telecommunications services and the need to protect the
environment from adverse impacts arising from telecommunications infrastructure.
Planning should have regard to national implications of a telecommunications
network and the need for consistency in infrastructure design and placement.
The clause notes that planning must consider, as relevant A Code of Practice for
Telecommunications Facilities in Victoria (Department of Sustainability and Environment,
2004). How the proposal performs against the code is outlined later in this report.
Clause 21.05 is the Compact Greater Bendigo policy. The policy does not specifically
reference the provision on infrastructure to service residential development, though it is
of some relevance in so much that a factor in the need for the facility is to service
Eaglehawk and in particular Jackass Flat which has experienced a significant uptake
since it was rezoned following adoption of the Citys 2004 Residential Development
Strategy.
Zone Clause 37.01 Special Use Zone 4 (Private Sport and Recreation Facilities):
Purposes of this zone include:

To recognise and provide for areas in private ownership to be used for a minor sports
and recreation facility including golf courses, golf driving ranges and bowling clubs
[author emphasis].
To ensure that the use and development of these facilities takes place in an orderly
and proper manner and does not cause loss of amenity to the neighbourhood.
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It is important to note that a Special Use Zone does not prohibit any use; however it does
emphasize that complementary use and development of the land needs to have due
regard to amenity.
Existing sport and recreation facilities are often attractive locations for
telecommunications facilities as they are often strategically located within populated
areas, on larger holdings of land meaning there is opportunity to locate facilities in a way
where reasonable separation distances and screening opportunities can be achieved.
Particular provision - Clause 52.19 Telecommunications:
This clause has purposes to:

To ensure that telecommunications infrastructure and services are provided in an
efficient and cost effective manner to meet community needs.
To ensure the application of consistent provisions for telecommunications facilities.
To encourage an effective State-wide telecommunications network in a manner
consistent with the economic, environmental and social objectives of planning in
Victoria as set out in Section 4 of the Planning and Environment Act 1987.
To encourage the provision of telecommunications facilities with minimal impact on
the amenity of the area.
The key assessment tool for this application type is contained within the document titled
A Code of Practice for Telecommunications Facilities in Victoria 2004, which is a
document incorporated into the Planning Scheme. Clause 52.19-6 requires that the
principles for the design, siting, construction and operation of a telecommunications
facility set out in the Code of Practice must be considered, as appropriate. The
application has been assessed against the principles as follows:
A Telecommunications facility should be sited to minimise visual impact.

The tower has been applied for at a height of 35 metres, meaning it will clearly be visible
from certain viewpoints. The following factors (taken from A Code of Practice for
Telecommunications Facilities in Victoria 2004) are relevant to the consideration as to
what is relevant in terms of determining whether visual impact is acceptable.
How principle should be applied Assessment

On, or in the vicinity of a heritage place, The location of the facility is
a telecommunications facility should be approximately 600 metres north east of
sited and designed with external colours, the closest heritage place which is the
finishes and scale sympathetic to those historic part of the Eaglehawk
of the heritage place. A heritage place is Remembrance Park.
a heritage place listed in the schedule to
the Heritage Overlay in the Planning
Scheme.
Equipment associated with the In terms of materials, the facility consists
telecommunications facility should be of a concrete pole; equipment and
screened or housed to reduce its bollards (as opposed to a fenced
visibility. compound) to assist in it integrating with
the land in a less obtrusive way.
PAGE 77

A telecommunications facility should be The principle requires that a facility
located so as to minimise any should be located so as to minimise
interruption to a significant view of a views. This provision recognises that by
heritage place, a landmark, a necessity such facilities will be visible
streetscape, vista or a panorama, above tree canopy and from other
whether viewed from public or private viewpoints. It is important to note that
land simply being visible cannot be equated
to automatically having an adverse
visual impact.
The Planning Scheme does not

designate any landmark vistas or
panoramas as applying to the area. The
way the Planning Scheme can designate
these are by the use of controls such as
the Significant Landscape Overlay. The
nearest heritage places are also a
significant distance from the site.
In the case of this proposed facility, the

visual impact of the facility when viewed
around the site from both public and
private land varies; however in most
cases the facility has reasonable
separation distance from residences and
viewlines are broken up with the
vegetation that flanks the sides of the
golf course fairways.
Telecommunications facilities should be co-located wherever practical.

As a first preference, co-location is always thoroughly examined when seeking to
increase mobile phone coverage. Co-location offers reduced or no visual impact,
considerably lower costs and a speedier decision making process, as such this is only
ruled out by a carrier where it cannot be suitably achieved.

Wherever practical, telecommunications Not applicable.
lines should be located within an existing
underground conduit or duct.
Overhead lines and antennae should be The applicant has investigated the co-
attached to existing utility poles, towers location option and this is documented in
or other radio communications the supporting report, response to
equipment to minimise unnecessary objections and summarised earlier in this
clutter. report.
PAGE 78
Health standards for exposure to radio emissions will be met.

A telecommunications facility must be At a distance of 219.23 metres from the
designed and installed so that the site the highest level of electromagnetic
maximum human exposure levels to energy (EME) output from the facility will
radio frequency emissions comply with occur. The maximum output at this
Radiation Protection Standard location will emit 0.41% of the allowable
Maximum Exposure Levels to limit of EME in accordance with the
Radiofrequency Fields 3kHz to 300 Federal Government regulatory
GHz, ARPANSA, May 2002. framework.
Disturbance and risk relating to siting and construction should be minimised.

Construction activity and site location should comply with State environment
protection policies and best practice environmental management guidelines.

Soil erosion during construction and soil The applicant's submission details that
instability during operation should be the facility will be constructed in
minimised in accordance with any accordance with best practice
relevant policy or guideline issued by the environmental management.
Environment Protection Authority.
Construction should be carried out in a As above.
safe and effective manner in accordance
with relevant requirements of the
Occupational Health and Safety Act
1985.
Obstruction or danger to pedestrians or In terms of impacts associated with
vehicles caused by the location of the construction, any impacts would be short
facility, construction activity or materials lived as vehicles enter and exit the
used in construction should be subject site for construction or
minimised. maintenance activity.
Where practical, construction should be The applicant is required to adhere to
carried out during times that cause EPA guidelines around hours and days
minimum disruption to adjoining where construction is to occur.
properties and public access.
Traffic control measures should be taken The applicant is aware of their
during construction in accordance with obligations in this regard and, if required,
Australian Standard AS1742.3 2002 would liaise with the City in terms of
Manual of uniform traffic control devices traffic control required during the
Traffic control devices on roads. construction phase.
Open trenching should be guarded in The applicant is aware of their
accordance with Australian Standard obligations in this regard.
Section 93.080 Road Engineering AS
1165 1982 Traffic hazard warning
lamps.
PAGE 79

Disturbance to flora and fauna should be No vegetation on the site or in the road
minimised during construction and reserve is required to be removed for the
vegetation replaced to the satisfaction of facility in the amended location.
the land owner or responsible authority
at the conclusion of work. There was some concern raised by
residents about some vegetation
removal that occurred on the site
proximate to the initial application site.
The vegetation removal was not related

to the application and was separately
investigated and addressed by the City's
Compliance Officer.
Street furniture, paving or other existing The applicant is aware of their
facilities removed or damaged during obligations in this regard.
construction should be reinstated (at the
telecommunication carriers expense) to
at least the same condition as that which
existed prior to the telecommunications
facility being installed.
Mitigation of potential impacts of the Bendigo Airport and aircraft safety:
The existing, and re-developed Bendigo Airport has the Design and Development and
Airport and Environs Overlay applying to control development proximate to the airport.
The application site is outside the existing Planning Scheme designated areas subject to
aircraft control.
The site is on the fringes of the Inner Horizontal Surface of the Obstacle Limitation
Surface (OLS) of the Bendigo Airport (this document is an Incorporated Document in the
Planning Scheme).
The relative level of the golf course is generally Relative Level (RL) 210, meaning only a
structure above RL 330 would intrude into the Inner Horizontal Surface of the OLS. At
35 metres, the proposed facility will be no higher than RL 245, meaning an assessment
of the facility with respect to aircraft safety is not required in this instance.
PAGE 80
Figure 5: Application site in relation the planning controls (overlays) applying to the Bendigo Airport.
Figure 6: Application site and Obstacle Limitation Surface (OLS) applying to the Bendigo Airport.
PAGE 81
Objections
The issue of visual impact and the feasibility of co-location have been addressed earlier
in this report. The consultation that involved objectors, the Ward Councillors and the
Planning Department, resulted in the application site being revised to the location now
proposed. Whilst the new location has not resolved the objections, it is viewed as being
a superior location, on merit to that first proposed. The remaining issues raised by the
objections are:
Health concerns regarding Electro Magnetic Emissions (EME).

There are a number of Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal decisions including
Hyett v Shire of Corangamite [1999] VCAT 794 in McClelland v Golden Plains SC
[2013] VCAT 59, Marshall & Ors v Ararat Rural CC [2013] VCAT 90 and Mason v
Greater Geelong CC (Includes Summary) (Red Dot) [2013] VCAT 2057 (16
December 2013) that outline what matters are and are not relevant to a Council (and
on review VCAT) consideration of an application of this type. The applicant has
demonstrated through the submission of an EME report that the emissions are well
within the established limits.
Impact on property values.

A perceived impact on property values is not a planning ground that an application
can be refused on. Objectors that raise this issue are in fact raising a concern about
loss of amenity (with a follow on impact of loss of property value). The relevant
amenity issue in this case is that of visual amenity and this issue has been
considered in this report.
Disappointment that the first the community knew of the proposal was the planning
application notice.
The application was subject to the formal process of notification under Planning and
Environment Act (1987). There is no requirement for a land owner or applicant to
consult before, or in addition to this process.
Conclusion
Assessment of the proposal against relevant matters including: State and Local Policy;
the Zone; A Code of Practice for Telecommunications Facilities in Victoria 2004; impacts
on the operation of the Bendigo Airport and aircraft; and the submissions received
concludes that the facility represents an acceptable planning outcome, subject to the
recommended conditions.
Options
Attachments
Objections
PAGE 82
Proposed Notice of Decision Conditions
1. NO LAYOUT ALTERATION
The development as shown on the endorsed plans must not be altered or
modified (for any reason) except with the prior written consent of the
Responsible Authority.
2. SOUNDPROOFING
All external plant and equipment must be acoustically treated or placed in
soundproof housing to reduce noise to a level satisfactory to the responsible
authority.
3. REMOVAL OF REDUNDANT FACILITY

The facility approved by this permit shall be completely removed from the land
(with the land being reinstated to its natural condition) to the satisfaction of the
responsible authority within three (3) months of the telecommunications facility
becoming redundant. The responsible authority may approve an extension to
this time if an application is received three (3) months prior to the
telecommunications facility becoming redundant.
4. EXPIRY
This permit will expire if one of the following circumstances applies:
(a) The development is not started within two (2) years of the date of this
permit;
(b) The development is not completed within four (4) years of the date of this
permit.
In accordance with Section 69 of the Planning and Environment Act 1987, an
application may be submitted to the Responsible Authority for an extension of
the periods referred to in this condition.
PAGE 83
2.5 330 AND 338 OLYMPIC PARADE, MAIDEN GULLY 3551 - 2 LOT
SUBDIVISION
Author Beth Lavery, Planner

Director
Summary/Purpose
Application details: 2 lot subdivision

Application No: DS/164/2017
Applicant: CSI Engineers
Land: 330 and 338 Olympic Parade, MAIDEN GULLY 3551
Zoning: Farming Zone
Road Zone 2
Overlays: Bushfire Management Overlay
Environmental Significance Overlay 2
Vegetation Protection Overlay 2
Consultation Not required
meeting:
Key considerations: Consistency of subdivision with the Rural Subdivision
Policy
Consistency of subdivision with objectives of the Farming
Zone and minimum lot size
Conclusion: The application is inconsistent with the Greater Bendigo
Planning Scheme.
It is recommended that Council refuse to grant a planning

permit as the proposal is a serial excision and is inconsistent
with the Rural Subdivision Policy.
PAGE 84
RECOMMENDATION
City Council resolve to issue a Notice of Refusal to grant a permit for a 2 lot subdivision
at 330 and 338 Olympic Parade, MAIDEN GULLY 3551 for the following reason:
1. The application is inconsistent with the Rural Subdivision Policy, the Decision
Guidelines of the Farming Zone and Clause 65 of the Greater Bendigo Planning
Scheme
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Policy Context

where we live.
The irregular shape of the allotment suggests that sometime in the past, a previous
dwelling excision has occurred. The copy of Title submitted with the application indicates
this current lot layout was approved in 1989, by the former Shire of Marong.
Construction of a second dwelling on the allotment was approved in November 1998.
Report
The subject land is an irregularly shaped allotment with a total area of 3.649ha, and a
frontage of 102.33 metres to Olympic Parade. Undulating and sloping from north to
south, the site is covered by scattered vegetation and contains two dwellings one
located centrally along the northern property boundary, and one along the southern
property boundary. Surrounding land is a combination of cleared and vegetated farming
land, with most allotments containing dwellings and associated outbuildings. Lot sizes in
the immediate vicinity vary from 7ha to 55ha. The site is located approximately 2km from
Kangaroo Flat and 3.5km from Maiden Gully.
PAGE 85
Figure 1: Location map showing subject site.
Figure 2: Existing dwelling on proposed Lot 1
PAGE 86
Figure 3: Existing dwelling on proposed Lot 2
Proposal
The application proposes a two lot subdivision of the land, to create lots for each
dwelling. Proposed lot sizes are as follows:
Lot 1 = 1.368ha
Lot 2 = 2.28ha
Lot 1 is to be accessed via a long (existing) driveway from Olympic Parade, while Lot 2
would be serviced from another existing crossover from Olympic Parade.
Figure 4: Plan of proposed subdivision
PAGE 87

14.01-1 Protection of agricultural land

21.05-11 Rural living
21.05-12 Rural restructuring
21.05-13 Implementation

22.02 Rural Dwellings Policy
22.03 Rural Subdivision Policy
Other Provisions
35.07 Farming Zone
A planning permit is required to subdivide the land pursuant to clause 35.07-3 of the
Farming Zone, clause 42.01-2 of the Environmental Significance Overlay and clause
44.06-2 of the Bushfire Management Overlay.
Referrals
Referral Comment
Country Fire Authority No objection subject to conditions
Department of No objection subject to conditions
Environment Land Water
and Planning
North Central Catchment No objection subject to conditions
Management Authority
Traffic & Design No objection subject to conditions
Drainage No objection subject to conditions
PAGE 88
Public Notification
The application was advertised by way of notice on the site and letters to adjoining and
nearby owners and occupiers, however no objections were received.
Planning Assessment
The potential for the fragmentation of rural land and the need to prevent this from
occurring is a clear policy direction within the planning scheme, both at a State and local
level. The Rural Dwellings Policy (Clause 22.02) and Rural Subdivision Policy (Clause
22.03), supported by both State and local policy at Clauses 14.01 and 21.05-11 and
21.05-12 discourages dwellings on lots smaller than the schedule minimum so as to
ensure that existing Farming Zone land is protected from fragmentation through use of
the land for residential purposes.
The Farming Zone specifies that all lots created by subdivision should be at least the
area specified in the zone. In most cases (and in this case) the required minimum lot size
is 40ha. There is discretion to grant a permit for a smaller lot if the subdivision is to
create a lot for an existing dwelling, and it must be a two lot subdivision.
While the discretion exists, it is important to note that this does not equate to automatic
approval. Clause 65 of the Planning Scheme states that because a permit can be
granted does not imply that a permit should or will be granted. In making a decision, the
responsible authority must decide whether the proposal will produce acceptable
outcomes in terms of the decision guidelines of the Farming Zone.
This discretion is discussed in Collins v Greater Geelong CC [2004] VCAT 1840 where it
is noted that:
"There appears to be a mind set in some areas that there is a right to excise any
dwelling from any lot. This has never been the case Land owners have
consistently argued that the house is already there so what difference does a
subdivision make? Apart from potentially allowing serial dwellings and therefore
serial excisions, it means that the dwelling on the separate lot is now a tradeable
commodity, which was not the case before the excision. The new lot can
accommodate a rural lifestyle dweller who has widely different expectations to the
farming community within which they have purchased".
The excision provisions are contained within the Farming Zone to enable the separation
of dwellings from farm land in circumstances where farming operations are being
restructured and it has been demonstrated that a dwelling is surplus to the long term
needs of the land, and will not have an adverse impact on surrounding agricultural
activities or the environment.
The second dwelling on the site was approved in 1998, before the implementation of
current planning controls. Despite the zoning of the land at the time as Rural General
Farming Zone, due to proximity to urban Bendigo the application was assessed as a de
facto rural residential application against the requirements of the Good Design Guide.
Under current zoning and the Greater Bendigo Planning Scheme, a second dwelling
would only be permitted on the land if it could be demonstrated there was a genuine
need for a second dwelling to support agricultural production.
PAGE 89
While the sites location nearby to developed urban areas might suggest the land is
suitable for rural residential development, it is important to note that this type of adhoc
subdivision and development is problematic. The greater the fragmentation of land now,
the more difficult it will become to realise future urban structure and planning policy. To
this end, policies such as Compact Greater Bendigo have been developed to ensure
that urban land growth is channelled into designated growth areas, and inappropriate
sprawl prevented. The site is currently located outside of the Urban Growth Boundary.
Conclusion
Serial excisions are explicitly discouraged within the Rural Subdivision Policy. Approval
of the current proposal would result in the second excision for the land and would
therefore be contrary to this policy objective, along with the broader objectives seeking to
limit fragmentation of rural land. To this end, refusal of the application is recommended.
Options
PAGE 90
Wellbeing and Fairness - Reports Ordinary Meeting - 13 December 2017
3. WELLBEING AND FAIRNESS
3.1 YOUTH STRATEGY
Author Steven Abbott, Manager Community Partnerships
Responsible Vicky Mason, Director Health and Wellbeing

Director
Purpose
This report presents a summary of community feedback received during the period of
Public Exhibition concerning the Draft Youth Strategy and seeks Councils adoption of the
final strategy known as Explore, Engage, Empower: Young People in Greater Bendigo.
Summary
The Draft Youth Strategy (2017- 2021) - Explore, Engage, Empower: Young People in
Greater Bendigo (2017-2021) (Draft Youth Strategy) provides a strategic framework to
enable the City to understand and respond to a range of priority areas that impact on
young people aged 12 to 24 years. The framework includes an action plan which focuses
on bringing together existing resources and programs, partnerships and new directions
to achieve real outcomes for young people.
Developed by a Project Reference Group that included an enthusiastic group of young

people, the Youth Strategy aims to be a genuine commitment and partnership between
the City and young people.
RECOMMENDATION
That the Greater Bendigo City Council:
1. Adopt the Youth Strategy - Explore, Engage, Empower: Young People in Greater
Bendigo as amended following feedback received during the period of public
exhibition.
2. Adopt the Background Reports comprising the Youth Strategy Engagement

Report Having Our Say, Youth Issues Profile, Demographic Profile, Review of
Plans, Policies and Reports, Benchmarking Report, Services Mapping Report;
and Vision and Strategy Plan for the 45 Mundy Street Facility.
3. Launch the Youth Strategy with the participation of young people, community
agencies and members of the public.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
PAGE 91
Policy Context
City of Greater Bendigo Community Plan 2017 - 2021
Goal 1 Lead and govern for all
Effective community engagement will guide well informed,

responsive, decision-making and financially responsible resource
allocations, which are transparent and accountable.
Objective 1.1 Encourage community participation by citizens in the development of

new strategies and policies.
Goal 2 Wellbeing and fairness
Inclusive policies, partnerships and projects that increase access,

improve health and learning opportunities, by building better
connections and quality of life for all.
Objective 2.4: Support participation and development for residents of all ages and
abilities.
Objective 2.4:2: Partner to build connections for young people
Action 2017-18 Engage with young people and service partners to complete the new
Youth Strategy and annual actions, including the FReeZA program
and a graffiti prevention project.
At the meeting on August 16, 2017, Council considered a report into the Draft Youth
Strategy - Explore, Engage, Empower: Young People in Greater Bendigo 2017-2021
(Draft Youth Strategy). Following consideration of the Draft Youth Strategy and
Background Reports, Council resolved to:
1. Release the Draft Youth Strategy and Background Reports for a six week period
of public exhibition, and invite public submissions especially from young people
and hold a young peoples forum to provide further feedback; and
2. Receive a further report summarising the feedback provided and seek

endorsement of the final Youth Strategy.
The Youth Strategy is a four year plan that provides a framework for the City with a
Vision, Principles, Goals and Action Plan that responds with actions, partnerships and
resources to improve outcomes for young people aged 12 to 24 years in the municipality.
The City plays an important role in providing programs and opportunities for young
peoples participation, advocacy on issues facing young people; and planning for future
services and infrastructure associated with a growing population.
PAGE 92
Vision, Principles, Goals and Action Plan
The updated Youth Strategy (Attachment 1) provides a vision, principles, goals and
action plan to guide the Citys role with young people over the next four years.
Vision:
Young people in Greater Bendigo are heard, valued, connected and inspired so that they
make the most of lifes opportunities.
Principles:
EXPLORE - We explore opportunities with young people that increase inclusion

and connection.
ENGAGE - We engage with young people to ensure their needs and opinions are
heard and valued.
EMPOWER - We empower and inspire young people to shape the world they live
in.
Goals:
1. We increase collaboration to strengthen partnerships, networks and advocacy on

youth priority areas.
2. We provide innovative opportunities for young people to develop new skills.
3. We increase collaboration with education providers, industry and community to

enhance employment opportunities.
4. We provide opportunities for young people to have their say.
5. We promote young people as valuable citizens who make a positive contribution

to the community.
6. We create spaces that are inclusive, safe and welcoming for all members of the
community.
7. We deliver inclusive and accessible events and programs for all the community.
Action Plan:
The Youth Strategy contains a four year action plan which responds to the seven goals
via 22 actions that bring together existing City strategies and programs with new
initiatives.
PAGE 93
Priority/Importance:
The Youth Strategy is of high importance as it renews the Citys commitments to young
people and enables the City to deliver on its vision and goals in the Community Plan.
The Youth Strategy and background reports provide an evidence base to inform
decisions about young peoples priorities and the future needs of a growing population. It
encourages partnerships with local agencies and provides confidence to other levels of
government who provide grants to the City for young peoples programs.
Timelines:
The Youth Strategy is a four year strategy to commence in 2017/18 and conclude in
2021/22. The Youth Strategy will be reviewed annually to identify continuous
improvements, evaluate outcomes and update the action plan.
Previous Council Decision(s) Date(s):
August 21 2013 - The previous Greater Bendigo Youth Strategy was adopted by Council.
August 16, 2017 - Council resolved to release the Draft Youth Strategy - Explore,
Engage, Empower: Young People in Greater Bendigo (2017-2021) for a six week period
of Public Exhibition and invite public submissions; and hold a forum for young people to
provide feedback.
Report
The six week period of Public Exhibition for the Youth Strategy concluded on September
29, 2017.
During this time feedback was received via three main sources, these being:
Three forums involving young people (18 participants), community agencies (15
participants) and City staff (19 participants),
Online surveys submitted by 31 respondents; and
One written submission.
All responses received provided feedback on the Youth Strategy. No submissions were
received concerning the seven background reports.
The detailed summary of feedback received, the Citys response and recommended
amendments to the Draft Youth Strategy can be found in Attachment 9.
External Consultation:
External submissions and feedback were received via:
PAGE 94
Youth Forum held on September 14, 2017 (18 participants).

Agency Forum held on September 19, 2017 (15 participants).
Online surveys completed by 31 respondents.
One written submission.
Internal Consultation:
Internal feedback was received via:
Internal City Forum (19 participants).
The Youth Strategy Project Reference Group considered an overall analysis of the
submissions and feedback received and oversaw amendments and recommended
changes to the Youth Strategy and Action Plan in response to this feedback. The Project
Reference Group comprised young people, City staff and external agency
representatives.
Each Forum and the online survey focussed on achieving constructive feedback
concerning the overall tone and style of the Youth Strategy and its relevance to young
people. In particular, feedback questions focussed upon the vision, principles, themes
and goals and action plan.
Summary of Responses
1. Young Peoples Forum:
The feedback about the Youth Strategy from the young people was very positive. Key
points of feedback included:
Adding the word Heard to the vision statement.
Amend to be more relevant, use plain English, reduce buzzwords and make key
points clearer.
Amend to be shorter, easier to read and keep the great design.
Some young people felt the strategy was directed at youth not for youth and they
wanted it to be written more for young people.
2. Agency Forum
Key points of feedback included:
The feedback about the Youth Strategy from the agencies was positive however,
they thought the Youth Strategy should have had more focus on disadvantaged
and disengaged young people.
PAGE 95
The feedback included that the Youth Strategy felt like it was directed at youth
not for youth and young people should be seen as part of the community not
separate.
3. Internal Staff Forum
Key points of feedback included:
Agreed on adding Heard to the vison statement.
The Youth Strategy should be written for young people and not directed at them.
The language should be changed to we statements to be more inclusive of young
people and the language must be simplified and relate to young people.
The Youth Strategy is too complex. Themes, principles, objectives and goals
need to be rationalised and reduced to make the intent clearer.
The action plan was to repetitive with an excess of jargon. It needs to be simpler
and clearer.
4. Online Survey feedback
Key points of feedback:
Overall, feedback was very positive.
87% of respondents either agreed or strongly agreed with the vision and 89%
agreed that the Youth Strategy empowers young people.
Other feedback included increasing the brand awareness of the Citys YO

Bendigo Programs and being more inclusive of different groups in the community,
including: culturally diverse, Aboriginal, people with a disability and LGBTIQ.
5. Written submission
There was one written submission which focused upon the accuracy of demographic
data and ensuring the needs of rural and disadvantaged young people were responded
to.
Risk Analysis:
The Youth Strategy is a major strategic framework in relation to a significant and growing
population of young people aged 12 to 24 years. The Youth Strategy presents the Citys
commitments to young people across a range of ages and stages, as well as their
families and youth services. Key risks are mitigated by:
Informing young people about the Youth Strategy and supporting their
participation in the planning and running of services, programs and events that
help achieve the Youth Strategys vision, principles, goals and action.
PAGE 96
Undertaking research and demographic profiling to identify future trends and

priority issues especially around the future level of services in Greater Bendigo
and infrastructure required to meet the needs of a growing population.
Developing partnerships with other youth agencies and community stakeholders

to deliver collective responses to the priorities identified by young people and
respond to emerging issues.
Positive and rewarding partnerships with government agencies and funding

bodies to advocate on young peoples priority areas, address service gaps and
achieve grants to deliver positive outcomes for young people.
Ongoing review and benchmarking to assess the level of resources required by

the City to respond to its commitments to young people and the needs of a
growing population.
The ongoing implementation and review of the Youth Strategy will be coordinated
through the resources of the Community Partnerships Unit.
Additional resources for programs and activities are achieved via State Government
grants and partnerships with community agencies. Any additional resources required by
Council be considered through the annual budget development process.
Conclusion
The City plays an important role in providing opportunities for young peoples
participation, advocacy on issues facing young people; and planning for future programs,
services and infrastructure associated with a growing population.
The Youth Strategy is a four year plan that provides a framework for the City with a new
Vision, Principles, Goals and Action Plan to improve outcomes for local young people
aged 12 to 24 years in the municipality.
The process to update the Youth Strategy has included analysing demographic trends,
connecting with existing City strategies and other plans and polices from the Federal and
State government; and consulting with key stakeholders including youth agencies and
young people.
The Action Plan identifies actions to be undertaken which will respond to the priority
areas identified by young people during the community engagement and consultation
activities.
Following a period of Public Exhibition, the submissions and feedback received has been
considered and analysed resulting in a range of amendments to improve the clarity,
relevance and impact of the Youth Strategy.
PAGE 97
Attachments
1. Youth Strategy - Explore, Engage, Empower: Young People in Greater Bendigo

(2017-2021)
2. Draft Youth Strategy Engagement Report Having Our Say
3. Youth Issues Profile
4. Demographic Profile of Young People in Greater Bendigo
5. Review of Plans, Policies and Reports
6. Benchmarking Report
7. Services Mapping Report
8. Vision and Strategy Plan for 45 Mundy Street Facility
9. Public Exhibition Feedback Summary.
PAGE 98
3.2 SUMMER PREPAREDNESS INTEGRATED EMERGENCY

MANAGEMENT PLANNING COMMITTEE
Author Frances Ford, Coordinator Resilient Communities

Steven Abbott, Manager Communities Partnerships
Responsible Vicky Mason, Director Health and Wellbeing

Director
Purpose
To seek Councils endorsement to transition the current Municipal Emergency

Management Planning Committee to the integrated regional model known as the
Northern Victorian Integrated Municipal Emergency Management Planning Committee.
Summary
This integrated emergency management planning approach includes City of Greater

Bendigo, Mount Alexander Shire, Loddon Shire, Central Goldfields Shire and Campaspe
Shire. A key focus has been establishing an Integrated Municipal Emergency
Management Planning Committee (Integrated MEMPC) and preparation of an Integrated
Municipal Emergency Management Plan (Integrated MEMP) to replace the current five
participating municipal MEMPs and their committees.
An Integrated MEMP allows all five local governments to endorse the same plan,
excluding appendices. The addition of individual appendices for each municipality
reflects localised differences and ensures that local knowledge and arrangements are
captured and reflected.
This has been developed to the point where Loddon Shire and Mount Alexander Shire
have undertaken a successful external audit process using the Integrated MEMP (and
local appendices) as their framework. The City of Greater Bendigo is ready to transition
its current model to the integrated model.
PAGE 99
RECOMMENDATION
That Council:
1. Revoke the Instrument of Appointment to the City of Greater Bendigo Municipal

Emergency Management Planning Committee as of 15 December 2017;
2. In accordance with Section 21(3) of the Emergency Management Act 1986

approve the Instrument of Appointment for the Northern Victorian Integrated
Municipal Emergency Management Planning Committee to become the MEMPC
for City of Greater Bendigo as of 15 December 2017.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Policy Context
Councils are required to appoint an Emergency Management Planning Committee to

prepare and maintain a Municipal Emergency Management Plan (MEMP) under Section
21 (3) of the Emergency Management Act 1986. The MEMP is a multi-agency plan
managed by the municipal council.
Community Plan Reference:
City of Greater Bendigo Community Plan 2017-2021:

Goal 2 Wellbeing and Fairness
Objective 2.5 Create safe and resilient communities
Actions: Strengthen community resilience and undertake emergency management

planning that builds community resilience, especially with increasing risk of bushfire,
flood and heat events.
Emergency management in Victoria has been undergoing major reform since the Black
Saturday bushfire in 2009, and floods of 2010 and 2011.
Since 2013, Greater Bendigo has been part of the Northern Victorian Emergency
Management Cluster project (the Cluster) which aims to improve the efficiency and
effectiveness of emergency management within the City of Greater Bendigo and Mount
Alexander, Loddon, Central Goldfields and Campaspe Shires.
This cluster approach began as an MAV trial project, and attracted initial funding support
under the Natural Disaster Resilience Grants program. The Cluster project has been
primarily focussed on establishing an Integrated MEMPC and preparation of an
(Integrated MEMP)
PAGE 100
This is a first for Victoria and an innovation in emergency management. It is likely that
this collaborative model will be adapted by many other local governments in Victoria.
There are other examples of collaborative arrangements across Victoria in emergency

management, including the inter-council emergency management resource sharing
protocol through the Municipal Association of Victoria. However this will be the first time
in Victoria that several local governments in Victoria have appointed an Integrated
Committee and endorsed an Integrated Plan as their Municipal Emergency Management
Committee and Plan.
All participating local governments retain their emergency management responsibilities,

however the integrated model provides for a coordinated approach to emergency
management among the five municipalities.
Report
The Integrated MEMP has been produced in accordance with the provisions of the
Emergency Management Act 1986 (the Act) and guidelines contained in the Emergency
Management Manual Victoria, Part 6.
Section 21(3) of the Act states Council must appoint a Committee constituted by
members and employees of Council, Response and Recovery agencies and local
community groups involved in emergency management issues. Section 21(4) of the Act
requires the Committee to prepare a draft MEMP for consideration by Council.
Section 18(1) of the Act states that two or more municipal councils may cooperate in
relation to emergency management.
The legislation further states that although two or more municipal councils may plan and
act jointly in relation to emergency management, each local government is separately
responsible for discharging the responsibilities imposed by this Act.
To comply with the current legislation, under the Northern Victorian Cluster model, each
of the five local governments is separately responsible for discharging the responsibilities
imposed by the Act.
Prepare and maintain a Municipal Emergency Management Plan (MEMP)

(Section 20)
Appointment of Municipal Emergency Management Planning Committee
(MEMPC) (Section 21). See Attachment 1 for list of members.
One of the key efficiencies is an Integrated MEMP and the Integrated MEMPC to replace
the current five participating municipal MEMPs and their MEMPC committees.
A Memorandum of Understanding signed by all partner local governments includes:
Build community resilience through standardised emergency management planning

processes relating to prevention, preparedness, response, relief and recovery;
Establish a consistent emergency management risk assessment process and toolkit
to assist the defining and delivery of activities to meet minimum legislative
compliance and best practice obligations;
PAGE 101
Establish an agreed framework and associated terms for the sharing of human and
capital resources between participating Councils;
Identify and capitalise on opportunities to avoid duplication, reduce costs and
improve the efficiency and effectiveness of emergency management protocols,
procedures, policies and plans.
Expand the availability of specialist skills and knowledge maintained by individual
signatories to all participating Cluster Councils.
In accordance with the Emergency Management Manual Victoria, a Municipal

Emergency Management Plan must be audited every three years. The Chief Officer of
VICSES is responsible for leading the audit process on behalf of state government.
From now on each participating local government will present the Northern Victorian
Integrated Plan for audit, each local government will include their own local
arrangements, sub-plans and appendices.
The Integrated MEMP was tested for the first time when used as the basis for the audit of
the Loddon Emergency Management Plan 14 June 2017. The appendices to the
Integrated MEMP provide the local content. The VICSES Chief Officer has advised
Loddon Shire that the Integrated MEMP passed all areas of the audit. The success of the
audit outcome has allowed for the remaining partner individual MEMPCs to transition to
the Integrated MEMPC and Integrated MEMP.
Most recently Mount Alexander Shire has been audited through a similar process
(October 2017) and also passed audit successfully using the Integrated MEMP.
Central Goldfields Shire will be audited November 2017. The City of Greater Bendigo
and Campaspe Shire were both audited in 2016 using the individual Council MEMPs not
the Integrated MEMP however will present the Integrated MEMP at the next audit.
The City of Greater Bendigo MEMPC has recorded its support for the transition to
Integrated MEMP and Integrated MEMPC and is working to transition by the end of
2017.
Timelines:
It is intended that all five participating local governments will move from their individual
MEMPCs to the integrated model by the end of 2017.
Audit of MEMPs occur every three years. Within three years all five Councils will have
had their plan audited using the integrated version (with local appendices).
Risk Analysis:
The framework for the collaboration is governed by the Shared Local Government
Emergency Management Services (Northern Victorian Cluster) Memorandum of
Understanding, to which all members of the cluster are signatories.
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A Service Agreement has been developed to accompany this document that outlines the
respective roles and responsibilities of the Cluster Co-ordinating Council (currently
Campaspe Shire) and the cluster members.
Any dispute in relation to the delivery of services under the agreement will be referred to
the Local Government Shared Emergency Management Services Board (the Board), in
line with the Memorandum of Understanding.
The development of the Integrated MEMPC and Integrated MEMP has been a four year
journey that commenced in 2013 with the support of the Municipal Association of
Victoria. Emergency Service agencies, service organisations and those involved with
relief and recovery support have all been involved with this process.
Emergency Management Victoria and the Emergency Management Commissioner have

been kept informed of progress of the Cluster as this model has the potential to be used
in other areas of Victoria.
Updates have been provided at each MEMPC meeting. The subcommittees of the
Greater Bendigo MEMPC (currently the Fire Management committee, Flood emergency
planning committee and Relief and Recovery committee) will continue to meet at a
municipal level, and will feed up issues that require escalation to the Integrated MEMPC.
A cost benefit analysis conducted on behalf of Local Government Victoria concluded that
there are some savings to be made through collaborative approaches to emergency
management across a number of councils, including the Northern Victorian Emergency
Management Cluster.
Each of the five councils provides a financial contribution to the Cluster, with Campaspe
Shire Council currently leading coordination of the Integrated MEMP and MEMPC. The
City of Greater Bendigo and other cluster councils have signed a MoU that outlines the
arrangements that will be in place until June 2020. The current City of Greater Bendigo
financial contribution for 2017/18 under this MoU is $29,486.
Attachments
1. Integrated Municipal Emergency Management Planning Committee Membership.
PAGE 103
3.3 RENAMING OF BENDIGO AQUATIC CENTRE
Author Aleisha Verwoert North, Communications Manager
Responsible Craig Lloyd, Director Presentation and Assets

Director
Purpose
For Council to confirm the new name for the Bendigo Aquatic Centre, located on Barnard
Street, Bendigo.
Summary
From June 1, 2017 June 30, 2017 the City of Greater Bendigo ran a naming
competition, inviting the community to submit names for the new aquatic and wellbeing
centre that is currently under construction in Kangaroo Flat. The City received 25
submissions.
Seven of these submissions suggested naming the pool after Bendigos only Olympic
gold medallist, swimmer Faith Leech.
At the August 16, 2017 Council meeting, two names for the new facility were put forward
for Councils consideration:
Faith Leech Wellbeing and Aquatic centre
Gurri Wanyarra Wellbeing Centre
Council voted to provisionally name the new facility the Gurri Wanyarra Wellbeing Centre
and then commenced a 30-day consultation period on the chosen name from August 19
September 18, 2017.
The City received 63 submissions, a number of which advocated for the new facility to be
named after Faith Leech. Two petitions were also received calling for the new facility to
be named after the swimmer.
Council endorsed the new facilitys name as the Gurri Wanyarra Wellbeing Centre and
agreed to provisionally rename the Bendigo Aquatic Centre the Faith Leech Aquatic
Centre, subject to a 30 day consultation period (October 21 November 20, 2017).
A total of nine submissions were received.
PAGE 104
RECOMMENDATION
That the Greater Bendigo City Council resolve to endorse Faith Leech Aquatic Centre as
the new name for the Bendigo Aquatic Centre and to submit this to the Office of
Geographic Names (Victoria) for gazettal.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Policy Context

Effective community engagement will guide well-informed,
responsive decision-making and financially responsible resource
allocations, which are transparent and accountable
Objective 1.1 Engage with all communities

Encourage community participation by citizens in the development
of new strategies and policies.
Goal 2 Wellbeing and fairness

Inclusive policies, partnerships and projects that increase access,
improve health and learning opportunities, by building better
connections and quality of life for all.
Objective 2.2 Promote positive wellbeing across the Greater Bendigo community
Prioritise efforts to promote physical and mental wellbeing
Design settings and environments that can create better health
outcomes
Background information
Faith Leech is Bendigos only Olympic gold medallist; she won gold in the 4x100m
freestyle relay and bronze in the 100m freestyle at the 1956 Melbourne Olympics.
Faith trained and taught swimming at the Bendigo Aquatic Centre and Council discussed
with Faiths family a proposal to rename the facility after her. Faiths family is supportive
of the idea provided her name is attached to Greater Bendigos premier competition pool.
The Leech family want to ensure young people are able to learn more about Faiths
achievements and be inspired by her story of overcoming serious health issues,
including curvature of the spine, to triumph at the highest level.
PAGE 105
The aquatic centre on Barnard Street remains the most suitable venue for major
swimming carnivals due to its ability to accommodate temporary seating catering for
more than 800 spectators. A recent example includes the Victorian Country
Championships, the pinnacle of long course event swimming in Victoria, which was held
at Bendigo Aquatic Centre.
School swimming carnivals, which require large participant and spectator capacity, could
not be accommodated at Gurri Wanyarra Wellbeing Centre.
Wednesday June 15, 2016

Council awards the aquatic centre construction tender to Behmer and Wright Pty Ltd
Wednesday August 16, 2017

Council provisionally names the new facility aquatic and wellbeing centre currently under
construction in Kangaroo Flat the Gurri Wanyarra Wellbeing Centre, subject to a 30-day
public consultation process.
October 18, 2017

Council endorses Gurri Wanyarra Wellbeing Centre as the name for the new aquatic
and wellbeing centre currently under construction in Kangaroo Flat and agrees to
provisionally re-name the Bendigo Aquatic Centre the Faith Leech aquatic Centre,
subject to a 30-day public consultation process.
Report
Following the advice of the Office of Geographic Names, Council provisionally renamed
the Bendigo Aquatic Centre the Faith Leech Aquatic Centre and commenced a 30-day
public consultation process.
On Saturday October 21, the City of Greater Bendigo placed a public notice in the
Bendigo Advertiser advising people they may submit an objection to the provisional
name by Monday November 30.
The Office of Geographic Names states objections need to address the following points:
Your interest in the naming proposal e.g. if your address is affected or you have a
personal link with the place and/or name
Reasons why the name is not appropriate, including how it is considered to not
comply with the Naming rules for places in Victoria Statutory requirements for
naming roads, features and localities 2016.
Not all objections received strictly met these criteria, however Council has chosen to
consider all submissions.
A total of nine submissions were received. They can be summarised as follows:
PAGE 106
Two submissions supported the proposed name

One submission stated the Bendigo Aquatic Centre name should remain and the
main pool named Faith Leech Pool
Remaining submissions are based on opinion
Council needs to make a decision regarding the name so as officers can commence the
formal endorsement process through the Office of Geographic Names and plan a
celebration to mark the facilitys new name before the end of the 2017/2018 season.
It was a waste of time anyway, Council won't be beaten!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! The

Tradeoff is nothing short of scandalise!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Shame shame shame on you all.
It is a waste of time putting any submissions to the Council because you simply do
what you want anyway. Public opinion didnt want the new pool named Gurri
Wanyarra but we still got it anyway, so why bother about getting submissions for
naming the Aquatic Centre.
I will not submit any suggestions or vote for a particular name for the Bendigo pool
as obviously from the result of the naming of the Kangaroo Flat pool recently, the
majority of citizens of Bendigos vote is irrelevant and so it would be a waste of time
to submit any opinion.
I must admit that I am bitterly disappointed in the chosen name for the new pool. I
will never attend it, even though i have young grandchildren I will never attend it.
It is about time we stopped being politically correct all the time, trying to please some
people yet ignoring others who were also born here in this great country.
I thought that this council was finally back on track and not bickering amongst each
other as in the past, but no they haven't!
I suggest Council has already made up its mind about the name of the complex in
Bendigo as a trade-off for naming the Kangaroo Flat complex after aboriginal culture.
Both decisions smack of compromise and no true understanding of what marvellous

developments British settlement brought to this continent named Australia.
I had no name early on in its history except for a Portuguese sailor naming it the
Land of the Holy Spirit. Not named for Portugal at all. Named for God.
While I remain disappointed at the decision regarding the naming of the new aquatic
centre, I am somewhat mollified by the intention to re-name the central facility in
honour of our swimming Olympic gold medallist, Faith Leech (albeit just a LITTLE
late, considering the win was in 1956!).
Perhaps the diving section of the Faith Leech Centre could have been considered for
being named in honour of our region's diving medallist as well, just to complete the
recognition appropriately, and in a more timely fashion? I would certainly support
both such choices, as being both earned AND overdue!
The naming of The Aquatic Centre in Barnard Street should be named.......
The Faith Leech Aquatic Centre.
PAGE 107
After what has Been an emotional and upsetting process for many people, common
sense has taken place and the naming of the present facility is a perfect fit.
Faith Leech swam in the Municipal Baths for Bendigo Swimming Club at this site.
The old pool still exists.
The facility has an entrance area that lends itself to an ideal display area for
photographs of Faith.
The area around the pool roof / facia board would be an excellent position to have
The Faith Leech name displayed on the inside of the pool, so that it visible when
people are in the pool.
Through discussion and emails with Lincoln Fitzgerald and meeting Council, Staff on
site I have offered to Council the Sports Star Hall of Fame photograph of Faith, if
they would like to get it copied.
The Swimming Club have some excellent photographs that would be very suitable
for the display area as well.
Council's decision on the naming of the new pool in Kangaroo Flat is a great
disappointment and a slight to Faith Leech and the Leech family.
In this case, elected representatives of the people have gone against the wishes of
the people who put them there. Is this democracy?
Bendigo Aquatic Centre name should remain pool (main) named Faith Leech
Pool. Kangaroo Flat decision means no locality identification at all, not suitable at all,
but done.
PAGE 108
Strengthening the Economy - Reports Ordinary Meeting - 13 December 2017
4. STRENGTHENING THE ECONOMY
Nil.
PAGE 109
Environmental Sustainability - Reports Ordinary Meeting - 13 December 2017
5. ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY
5.1 GREATER BENDIGO ENVIRONMENT STRATEGY ACTION PLAN
Author Anthony Sheean and Nycole Wood
Responsible Bernie OSullivan

Director
Purpose
This report recommends the adoption of the Greater Bendigo Environment Strategy
Action Plan 2017-2021, including formally making the Take2 pledge. It also recommends
that the City officially join and work toward accreditation under BioRegional Australias
One Planet Living Program.
Summary
The Greater Bendigo Environment Strategy 2016-2021 (Environment Strategy) was

adopted by Council in August 2016.
The Environment Strategy uses the One Planet Living framework as the basis for action
areas and includes a wide range of priorities developed in consultation with the
community. It draws the link between community health and wellbeing and environmental
health, reinforces our knowledge and awareness of the human need for clean water, air
and food as well as connection to the environment.
A four year organisation-wide Greater Bendigo Environment Strategy Action Plan 2017-
2021 (Action Plan) has now been developed. The Action Plan responds to the priority
actions contained in the Environment Strategy.
Councils Sustainability and Environment Advisory Committee (SEAC), City Directors,

managers and staff all provided valuable input into the development of the Action Plan.
The action plan identifies specific tasks, projects and resources that will be required by
the organisation to ensure the successful implementation of the Greater Bendigo
Environment Strategy 2016-2021.
Bioregional is an international environmental organisation that works with local

governments to promote sustainable development in their operations and their local
communities, creating attractive, inspiring places which help people to live better, happier
and healthier lives, within a fair share of the planets resources. The One Planet Living
Framework is the key process for achieving these outcomes.
PAGE 110
Take2 is the Victorian Governments climate change pledge program. As an existing

signatory to Take2, the next step is for Council to make a public pledge to take action on
climate change. It is appropriate for this to happen as Council endorses our Environment
Strategy Action Plan.
RECOMMENDATION
1. That the Greater Bendigo City Council adopt the Greater Bendigo Environment
Strategy Action Plan 2017-2021
2. That the Greater Bendigo City Council makes the following Take2 pledge:
Working together, we pledge to play our part and take action on climate change
for Victoria, our country and our planet. We pledge our commitment to creating
Greater Bendigo communities who are connected to healthy regional landscapes,
working together to prosper equitably within the capacity of the earths resources.
3. That the Greater Bendigo City Council join BioRegional Australias One Planet
Program and work toward accreditation as a One Planet Council.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Policy Context
Community Plan 2017 2021 Reference:
Goal 1: Lead and govern for all
Objective 1.4: Be accountable and efficient in use of the communitys money

Objective 1.5: Take a leadership role in regional planning, advocacy and work in
partnership with regional councils.
Goal 2: Wellbeing and Fairness
Objective 2.1: Create a much healthier Greater Bendigo

Objective 2.5: Create safe and resilient communities
Goal 4: Presentation and Managing Growth
Objective 4.1: Plan for a growing population

Objective 4.2: Plan to meet future housing needs
Objective 4.3: Continue to implement strategies that increase the capacity of
transport networks to better move people and goods and encourages walking, cycling
and the use of public transport
Objective 4.5: Provide and maintain urban and rural infrastructure to support the
liveability of our community.
PAGE 111
Goal 5: Environmental Sustainability
Objective 5.1: Drawing on the One Planet Living framework to connect the health
of the natural environment to the health and prosperity of our community.
Implement prioritised actions contained in the Greater Bendigo Environment Strategy
2016-2021.
Objective 5.2: Demonstrate leadership in sustaining the rich biological diversity of
the Greater Bendigo region that sustains healthy ecosystems.
Regional Plan Reference:
Loddon Mallee Regional Strategic Plan (2015-2018):
Strategic Direction 1. Foster our comparative advantages in agriculture, food

processing and other regionally significant industries.
Priority Area 1.4 Stimulate local industry to maintain and create

employment.
Priority Area 1.6 Increase renewable energy generation and energy

efficiency.
Strategic Direction 3. Enhance the wellbeing and economic participation of our

people.
Priority Area 3.5 Support initiatives that encourage full employment.
Strategic Direction 4. Protect and enhance the liveability and appeal of our
Region.
Priority Area 4.5 Adopt smart solutions to the management of waste and
natural resources.
In June 2015 an extensive community consultation process commenced to develop a

new environment strategy for the City of Greater Bendigo. The Greater Bendigo
Environment Strategy 2016-2021 was adopted by Council in August 2016. The
Environment Strategy uses Bioregional Australias One Planet living framework as the
basis for action areas and includes a wide range of priorities developed in consultation
with the community.
The 20 year vision of the Greater Bendigo Environment Strategy is:
Greater Bendigo communities who are connected to healthy regional landscapes,

working together to prosper equitably within the capacity of the earths resources.
Council adopted the Greater Bendigo Environment Strategy 2016-2021 at its ordinary
meeting on Wednesday 31 August 2016.
PAGE 112
Report
The comments and aspirations of the community were central to the development of the
Environment Strategy and have also formed the basis for the Action Plan.
The Action Plan follows the One Planet Living Framework and addresses each priority
action contained in the Environment Strategy. It shows strategic alignment with other
Council plans and strategies such as the Integrated Transport and Land Use Strategy,
Health and Wellbeing Plan and Waste and Resource Management Strategy.
The four flagship projects contained and adopted in the Environment Strategy also form
part of the Action Plan.
Flagship Project 1. Catalyse a local renewable and equitable energy network.
Flagship Project 2. City in the Forest, Forest in the City
Flagship Project 3. A shared vision for restoring Bendigo Creek
Flagship Project 4. Power to the People local sustainability education
The Action Plan will be delivered over the next four financial years, 2017 2021.
One Planet Living Program
To help facilitate the implementation of the Action Plan and embed the One Planet Living
framework into the City operations, it is recommended that the City officially join and
work toward accreditation under BioRegional Australias One Planet Living Program.
One Planet Living is a leadership program and for international accreditation an

organisation must demonstrate leading initiatives across all of the 10 One Planet
Principles; these are the same as the action areas in our Environment Strategy.
The process of accreditation is to undertake a gap analysis and then develop an action
plan over a 12 month period. As a large amount of work has gone into action planning
already, this forms a solid foundation for pursuing One Planet accreditation; however the
City will still be required to work through the gap analysis and will likely identify areas for
improvement.
More information about Bioregional Australia and One Planet Living is available at:
http://bioregional.com.au/
The annual One Planet Program fee is $5,600 plus additional assessment fees at
program milestones.
Take2
Take2 is the Victorian Governments climate change pledge program for all Victorians
(www.take2.vic.gov.au). Under Take2, business, government, educational institutions,
community groups and households make a public promise to take action on climate
change. The goal is to keep temperature rise to under two degrees.
The City of Greater Bendigo has joined Take2, and the next step is to make the official
pledge. Taking the pledge represents a public commitment by Council.
PAGE 113
The Take2 standard pledge wording has been expanded to include the Greater Bendigo
Environment Strategy vision, so that our pledge becomes:
Working together, we pledge to play our part and take action on climate change for
Victoria, our country and our planet. We pledge our commitment to creating Greater
Bendigo communities who are connected to healthy regional landscapes, working
together to prosper equitably within the capacity of the earths resources.
There is no cost to participate in Take2.
Timelines:
Work has progressed against the Environment Strategy since its adoption and now the
Action Plan will give the organisation detailed actions to progress with timelines aligned
to the Community Plan.
Progress:
Progress against the Environment Strategy since its adoption includes, but is not limited
to:
Sustainable Buildings Policy adopted by Council (June 2017) and in operation

Sustainable Procurement Policy strengthened and Sustainable Procurement
Schedule created and in operation.
Over 130kW of Solar PV installed on Council buildings.
Pumped hydro feasibility study currently underway with the Department of
Environment, Land, Water and Planning.
Electric vehicle charging stations installed in three locations.
Environmental Upgrade Agreements available for local businesses.
Cycleport infrastructure installed at Lyttleton Terrace main office.
Sustainable Design Assessment in the planning process roll out commenced
Sustainable Subdivisions project commenced.
Participation in the Cooperative Centre for Water Sensitive Cities (CRCWSC) as one
of the two major case studies across Australia.
Trial of solar technology to reduce blue green algae at Kennington Reservoir.
Wanyarram Dhelk Project underway.
Urban Tree Management Policy adopted.
Completed the Citys 2017 waste review.
Ongoing coordination, support and promotion of community events and information
sessions including: National Tree Day, National Water Week, Bendigo Sustainability
Awards, National Threatened Species Day, Clean Up Australia Day, Fruit Fly
information sessions, Environmentally Sustainable Design Industry information
session.
Risk Analysis:
The Environment Strategy presents a positive future with significant benefit to people,
the environment and the local economy. It also represents a desire to be inquisitive,
innovative and brave in dealing with the challenges of climate change and to ensure our
PAGE 114
community is best placed to recognise and grasp opportunities that may arise from
change.
We know the risks of not addressing climate change are significant for our health, for our
environment and for the wealth and liveability of our community. Reversing global
warming must become our priority. The action we have taken to date has not been
enough; as an organisation the emissions captured under our Target2020 have not
decreased since the target was set. We continue to purchase coal-fired electricity, our
transport emissions are growing, and waste (particularly food waste) continues to be a
problem across the community.
We must invest now to mitigate the very serious risks of climate change and create a
sustainable, healthy and prosperous Greater Bendigo.
Development of the Greater Bendigo Environment Strategy commenced in June 2015

and involved 18 months of extensive community engagement. The Strategy was finalised
and adopted by Council at its ordinary meeting on Wednesday 31 August 2016. The
relevant Council report fully documents the extent of the consultation process.
The Action Plan draws primarily on the Environment Strategy engagement process and
the priorities of the adopted Strategy.
Councillors, the Executive Management Team, Managers and staff have had the
opportunity to contribute to the development of the Action Plan and provided valuable
input and guidance during the drafting of the Plan.
Councils Sustainability and Environment Advisory Committee provided comments on the

draft Action Plan. The Committee feedback is summarised in the table below.
Feedback / Recommendation Response

1 Include a KPI for Thriving landscapes Included
and ecosystems that measures the
health of Bendigo Creek.
2 Emphasised the importance of Noted. Implementation of the
adequate budget to address climate Environment Strategy is a priority
change. action in Councils Community Plan
2017-2021 (5.1.1). Many actions in
the Environment Strategy Action Plan
will be implemented under the Citys
base budget; additional actions are
subject to the budget process.
3 Emphasised the importance of more Noted. The flagship action Power to
sustainability education and of the City the People includes a new position
improving its own sustainability record. for a Community Sustainability
Education Officer. This is subject to
PAGE 115
the budget process.

4 Action Plan should have a greater This strategy is not a specific climate
emphasis on climate adaptation and adaptation plan, however the City
resilience. Highlighted the impact of works to embed climate adaptation
the drought on regional and rural across the range of operations and
community spirit. strategies.
5 Positive feedback regarding the use of Noted.
the 10 long term action areas (the One
Planet Framework) in making a
complex document easier to
understand.
Actions contained within the plan are subject to funding consideration by Councillors on
an annual basis during the usual budget process. Many actions are achievable within
Councils base budget, and are delivered across various units and teams in the
organisation. Capital and operational budget bids have been prepared for those actions
requiring additional resources.
Budget Allocation in the Current Financial Year:

$5,600 required for initial One Planet Program fee.
Projected costs for future financial years:

One Planet Program assessment costs approx $9,000 in 2018/19 and 2019/2020
Any ongoing recurrent expenditure required:

One Planet Program Fees $5,600 p.a.
Attachments
1. Greater Bendigo Environment Strategy Action Plan 2017- 2021

2. BioRegional Australia, One Planet Program brochure
3. Sustainability Victoria, Take2 Local Government Fact Sheet
PAGE 116
Embracing Our Culture and Heritage - Reports Ordinary Meeting - 13 December 2017
6. EMBRACING OUR CULTURE AND HERITAGE
6.1 GASWORKS SITE CONTAMINATION AND FUTURE USE
Author Andy Walker, Manager Property Services
Responsible Craig Lloyd, Director Presentation and Assets

Director
Purpose
This report seeks Council support for the future use of the Bendigo Gasworks site to
enable the contamination clean-up plan, being funded by the State Department of
Treasury and Finance (DTF), to best meet the City's future needs.
Summary
The Gasworks site is an important heritage site that is contaminated and continues to be
the subject of illegal entry and vandal attack, as well as physical deterioration. It has
been identified by an independent survey commissioned by Heritage Victoria in 2016, as
being in very poor condition. A large part of the site also contains trams and tram related
objects and other industrial artefacts. A decision on the future use of the site is required,
to ensure the City optimises the clean-up of contamination currently being planned and
funded by DTF.
This report seeks Council's endorsement and support for detailed design of an option for
the development of the site that:
Meets our statutory requirements in terms of protection of a significant heritage site.

Facilitates the contamination clean-up by the Department of Treasury and Finance
(DTF).
Opens the site up for public access to reduce illegal access and vandalism.
Allows for further development (public/private) in the future.
Meets our statutory requirements with the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA).
PAGE 117
RECOMMENDATION
That Greater Bendigo City Council resolve to:
1. Endorse Option 1a for the Gasworks redevelopment and support further

development of Option 1a.
2. Support the $45,000 budget for schematic design and cost estimates for Option 1a
through the mid-year budget review process.
3. Undertake community consultation on Option 1a through a community drop-in

session.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Policy Context

Goal 4 Presentation and managing growth
Objective 4.3 Continue to implement strategies that increase the capacity of

transport networks to better move people and goods and
encourages walking, cycling and the use of public transport.
Objective 4.4 Keep Greater Bendigo attractive with good quality public facilities
and spaces.
Objective 4.4.1 Maintain and upgrade essential buildings and infrastructure in a
sustainable manner.
Objective 4.4.2 Ensure open spaces are accessible and fit for purpose.
Objective 4.5 Provide and maintain urban and rural infrastructure to support
liveability of our community.
Objective 4.5.1 Develop and adopt best-practice asset management principles.
Goal 6 Embracing our culture and heritage
Objective 6.1 Celebrate our unique heritage.
Objective 6.1.2 Stimulate re-purposing of heritage buildings for contemporary use

and increased sustainability.
Strategy Reference:
Greater Bendigo Plan 2036

Priority 2: Foster the useability of open spaces
2.1 Priority action for walking and cycling infrastructure.
PAGE 118
2.6 Develop recreational facilities that are in line with current usage trends:-
http://www.bendigo.vic.gov.au/About/Document-Library/greater-bendigo-2036-plan
Greater Bendigo Public Space Plan- a conceptual 50 year vision March 2017
Stronger connections to and between public spaces (Gasworks-Lake Weeroona links
proposed in Tonkin Zulaikha Greer (TZG) Architects report).
Organise public space to connect destinations and integrate different uses.
Provide civic gathering spaces (event spaces proposed in TZG report).
Regional Strategic Plan Reference:
Loddon Mallee Regional Strategic Plan 2015-2018
Strategic Direction 1:- Foster our comparative advantages in agriculture, food processing
and other regionally significant industries.
1.8 Invest in tourism product, assets and related infrastructure.
Strategic Direction 4:- Protect and enhance the liveability and appeal of our Region.
4.2 Build on the strengths of regional centres and towns.
4.3 Enhance Bendigo and Mildura as regional cities.
4.8 Support thriving arts, culture, sports, recreation and major events.
4.9 Improve our pride in, and protection of, our Aboriginal and historic cultural
heritage.
The Former Bendigo Gasworks operated from 1860-1973. The site is divided into 3
zones.
Zone 1:- Currently occupied by the Tram Depot and leased to Bendigo Heritage
Attractions and formerly occupied by the Gasworks. Some tram repair works are
undertaken here.
Zone 2:- Contains the main gasworks infrastructure. All the gasworks buildings and
equipment is largely intact but in very poor condition. This zone was previously leased to
the Bendigo Trust (now Bendigo Heritage Attractions (BHA)). There are still a number of
trams and tram related objects, parts and equipment on this section. The City is
currently working with BHA to remove all trams and tram related objects from this part of
the site.
Zone 3:- Open treed public space. There has been some encroachment/private use by
residents whose properties back onto this space. There is currently minimal use and
access by the public.
The site (comprising Zones 2 and 3) is on the Victorian Heritage Register. This includes
all the buildings and fixed equipment, as well as the land. Any development, alterations,
subdivision and the like require a permit from Heritage Victoria.
PAGE 119
The site has also been identified as being of national significance, although this has not
been tested, through a nomination to the National Heritage List. The Institution of
Engineers, Australia, believes it is of international significance, as evidenced by the
Engineering Heritage Plaque fixed to the former Managers Office.
The site continues to be subject to illegal entry and attack by vandals, as well as physical
deterioration.
The Gasworks has been identified to be at risk in the Living Heritage Project (a health
check undertaken by Heritage Victoria in 2016). The Bendigo Gasworks was assessed
as being in very poor condition and potentially unsafe, with some repairs requiring
immediate attention. While the most urgent brickwork repairs to the Retort House have
been addressed, we have been unable to complete much needed structural works to the
Purifier Shed, because of unresolved contamination issues, which are the responsibility
of DTF. We now have an interim environmental site management plan (ISEMP), which
will enable the urgent building works to the Purifier Shed to proceed, while managing the
contamination.
The current lack of public access has been the reason given for an unsuccessful grant
application to Heritage Victoria. Activation of the site and public access would greatly
increase the possibility of grant funding in the future.
Statutory Planning Zones & Overlays
Zones:
Public Use Zone Schedule 7 (PUZ7) - part site
General Residential Zone (GRZ) - part site
Site abuts a Road Zone Category 1 to the north-west which is Weeroona Avenue
Overlays:
Environmental Significance Overlay Schedule 1 (ESO1)
Heritage Overlay Schedule 294 (HO294)
Neighbourhood Character Overlay Schedule 1(NCO1).
Impacts and Permits for potential change in use and construction on the site:
The City does not require a Planning Permit to use the land.
A Planning Permit may be required from Heritage Victoria for the use and or
construction on the site due to the HO294
A Planning Permit will be required to remove or lop any vegetation from the part of
the site covered by the ESO1 or in the adjoining road reserve.
Contamination
The ISEMP by Golder Associates dated June 2017 summarises the key contamination
as follows:
PAGE 120
Soil within Zone 1 and Zone 2 (surface to > 3 metres below ground level (mbgl)) has
been contaminated by historical gasworks activities. Key contaminants include total
petroleum hydrocarbons (TPH) fractions, benzene, toluene, ethylbenzene, xylenes,
naphthalene (BTEXN), polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), creosote, cyanide
and metals. Asbestos has also been observed in previous soil assessments and
there is the potential for asbestos to be present in soil at the site.
Groundwater within Zone 1 and Zone 2 (~2.5 to 5 m bgl) has been contaminated by
historical gasworks activities. Coal tar was observed at a monitoring well located in
Zone 1 and inferred nonaqueous phase liquid (NAPL) is present in shallow
groundwater that extends across the central parts of Zone 1 and Zone 2. Key
dissolved phase contaminants include TPH fractions, BTEXN, PAHs, cresols,
cyanide, ammonia and metals.
The generation of vapour from soil and groundwater contamination is possible, as
several of the key contaminants are volatile (such as TPH <C21 fractions and
BTEXN). Targeted active soil vapour (ASV) sampling confirmed the presence of
benzene, xylene and naphthalene in soil vapour in the vicinity of the tram sheds in
Zone 1.
The risk posed by contamination is significantly lower in Zone 3. Impacts from
gasworks activities have generally not been observed, with the exception of localised
areas of contamination (PAHs and metals) identified in near surface soils.
A pollution abatement notice (PAN) has also been issued under the Environment
Protection Act 1970, by the Environment Protection Authority (EPA). This requires
certain actions to be undertaken at the site and ongoing quarterly reporting.
In 2016, the City commissioned Tonkin Zulaikha Greer to undertake and Adaptive re-use
and Options Development Study.
This exciting project aims to secure a future for the site that maximises the
propertys strategic potential for the benefit of the broader community. While the re-
use of this industrial site is particularly challenging, there is an opportunity to pursue
a creative solution for the adaptive reuse of the site and integrate it with the
surrounding land use. Fundamental to this objective is to focus on and encourage a
considered future use and associated functionality which is sustainable. The study
is funded by the City of Greater Bendigo.
As a result of this analysis, the Study has determined that the strategic importance
of the site, as well as its fascinating industrial heritage, presents a major opportunity
for adaptive reuse as an important asset to the local community and a potential
visitor attraction. A range of Options has been developed from the consultation
findings and site assessment, to illustrate low, medium and high end capital
expenditure and commercial use, consistent with the heritage significance of the
site and the wishes of the community. These are detailed in Section 5.
This report presents three options related to levels of intervention.
All three options include new public access into the site through a loop pedestrian/bicycle
path from the main Lake Weeroona path pedestrian/bicycle path, bridging over Bendigo
Creek and an interpretation trail.
PAGE 121
The options for the 3 zones are summarised in the table below:
Zone Option 1 Option 2 Option 3

Intervention Minimal Medium High
Level
1) Tram Decontaminated As Option 1 plus: All existing structures
and made safe Northern steel shed removed removed. New multi-
Interpretative trail Large brick tram barn adapted purpose
New plaza for for use as multi-purpose function/conference
events, markets event/function//market/conferenc centre developed with
and site e centre, with extension for underground parking.
interpretation foyer, services and caf. New north facing plaza
New sunny plaza linked to multi- accessed off Weeroona
purpose venue Ave
Vehicle access and parking from
Weeroona Ave for Zones 1&2.
2) Core Decontaminated Smaller secured area As Options 1&2 plus:
Gasworks and made safe Adaptive re-use of a number of Western gasholder
Perimeter buildings for developed as flat floor
secured to protect educational/community functions auditorium and
heritage Small area for staff/service education centre.
New event space vehicle parking off Weeroona New 2 level education
in heart of site Ave and interpretation
Lighting and other centre next to Retort
services House allowing view
Heritage buildings into Retort House, for
stabilised and educational and
conserved tourism purposes.
Objects
conserved
Site interpretation
3) Landscape The site is Site developed as commercially Medium density
precinct decontaminated operated group accommodation residential development
and made safe for budget travellers, schools.
for public access Majority of trees retained.
Interpretative trail 6m wide link between sites and
through Lake Weeroona retained.
Significant trees
retained
The site is contaminated. DTF is responsible for the clean-up of below ground
contamination at the site. An environmental auditor completed a S53V Audit of the site
in April 2016 which provided a list of recommendations to further assess, remediate and
manage the site contamination. A clean-up plan is currently being prepared by Golder
Associates. A draft is expected shortly. This will need to be assessed by the Auditor
and then discussed by the DTFs Project Control Group, which includes representatives
from the City, DTF and EPA. Golder Associates have also prepared an Interim Site
Environmental Management Plan (June 2017) to provide guide site access and
management prior to the clean-up.
PAGE 122
The EPA has also recently issued a pollution abatement notice (PAN) for the site. This
requires the City to begin to implement all certain actions and procedures outlined in the
PAN by 30 October 2017, ongoing quarterly reporting with the first report due by the 30
November 2017.
The required actions include:
Conduct bi-annual inspections

Management of vegetation cover
Installation of fencing and gate to Zone 3 to prevent public access
Identification and mapping of asbestos containing materials
Management of surface odours emanating from the site
Management of stormwater at the premises to prevent runoff into creek
Management of the Bendigo Creek retaining wall including photographic survey
Site induction for contractors
No formal previous Council decisions, but TZG presented the 3 options to a Council
briefing on 17 July 2017, preceded by a site inspection by Councillors on 5 July 2017.
Report
Options for the future use of the Gasworks site were contained in the recommendations
of the TZG report. This report presented 3 options related to levels of intervention.
Of the options, a modified Option1 (Option 1a), which incorporates some of the features
of Option 2, is proposed for further architectural schematic design.
Option 1a (Refer to Attachment)
Like Option 1, this ensures Zones 1, 2 and 3 are decontaminated and made safe and
allows for:-
2 new pedestrian/cycle path links across the creek to Lake Weeroona

pedestrian/cycle paths
An interpretative trail
A new plaza for events, markets and site interpretation
New event space in heart of site
Lighting and other services
Heritage buildings stabilised and conserved
Site interpretation
The northern steel shed is removed from Zone 1
PAGE 123
The larger brick tram barn on Zone 1 is adapted as a multi-purpose event, function,
market or conference centre with a northern extension containing foyer, services and
a new caf.
A new sunny focal plaza is created in Zone 1 linking the new function/market centre
and the caf to Weeroona Avenue.
New vehicle access and parking is constructed off Weeroona Avenue, serving both
the centre and the gasworks site.
The site security in the core Gasworks site (Zone 2) to protect the most significant
heritage buildings and objects is reduced to a smaller central area with the most
fragile heritage items
The remaining part of Zone 2 is adapted for a range of educational and community
functions, as appropriate to the retained structures and the overall heritage
significance including a small cafe, craft and other workshops and service functions
including toilet facilities.
A new small staff/service vehicle access and parking area is located on Weeroona
Avenue.
The landscape precinct in Zone 3 is made publicly accessible with interpretation trail
and significant trees retained.
Option 1a allows for greater activation of Zones 1 and 2, with adaptive reuse of a number
of buildings on Zone 2.
This option leaves Zone 3 decontaminated and allows for possible future development.
We will also need to ensure there is no further encroachment or private use of this Zone
by the residents whose houses back onto this area.
DTF has requested details on future use of the site to inform the final contamination
clean-up plan. It is preferable that the clean-up plan and master plan for the site are
developed together, so that clean-up actions such as capping of parts of the site, or soil
removal can work with planned hard landscaping-paths, paving, and new buildings and
landscaping
The report by TZG does not provide enough detail to fully inform the clean-up plan.
No clear community or Council needs or direction for the site were identified by TZG
during the research and consultation phases.
Zone 1 presents a particular challenge because of its current use for tram operations by
Bendigo Heritage Attractions. This part of the site is highly contaminated. There is a
large brick tram barn, constructed in 1980s which is in good condition and has high
potential for adaptive re-use. There is also a large steel shed which currently houses a
collection of gas stoves and spare parts for the tram operations, and is only useful for
storage. It is of no architectural or heritage value, and would be best relocated to
another site or demolished.
BHA has no space on its main Tram Depot site in Hargreaves Street to accommodate
the functions currently housed in Zone 1.
Sites for storage of BHA trams and other objects are being explored.
PAGE 124
Social Issues
The 3 options in the TZG report all include opening up the gasworks site for public
access through a pedestrian/bicycle path through the site. This will address current
problems of illegal access and vandalism due to perceptions that the site is abandoned.
The opening up and use of the site will provide some social benefits, particularly by
facilitating the link from Lake Weeroona to the treed landscaped Zone 3, which has great
potential for passive recreation but currently has little public access.
Economic Issues
A number of the buildings at the gasworks site are long overdue for repair and
restoration. The longer these repair works are delayed the higher the costs are likely to
be, due to the more extensive scope of work.
Zones 1 and 3 are likely to provide some scope for private developers in the future,
which could help offset any development costs associated with Zone 2.
The initial costs of TZG Option 1 or 1a are lower than the other two options.
The confirmation of future use of the site will optimise the economic benefit of the site
clean-up currently being planned and funded by DTF. There are economic benefits in
the site clean-up and site development being planned concurrently. For example,
capping of part of the site with a concrete slab could provide a plaza space for events, or
the base for a future building. Landscaping and paving could also be planned to address
contamination. Incorporation of planned future services such as electricity, water supply
and sewer and data could prevent future expensive excavations.
Environmental Issues
All 3 options presented in the TZG report involve the site being decontaminated and
made safe. The clean-up of the contamination at the gasworks site will address the
environmental issues.
Zone 1 and current Tram occupation and use mean that public access to this part of the
site is not possible while this use continues. The proximity to Lake Weeroona and linking
of the sites through pedestrian/cycle ridges across the creek could have environmental
benefits in expanding public open space and associated recreational activities.
Facilitating public access to the treed Zone 3 will provide more parkland for picnics and
the like.
This is a high priority because of the need for the City's preferences to inform the final
clean-up plan currently being developed by Golder Associates for DTF. All possible use
options need to be provided to DTF.
PAGE 125
Options/Alternatives:
The 3 options presented by TZG are outlined above.
A combination of Options 1 and 2 may provide the best immediate solution (Option 1a).
Other options include undertaking another study, or doing nothing.
Commissioning another study is unlikely to reveal other clear ideas or options.

The do nothing option is not a no cost option, as there are ongoing costs resulting
from illegal access, vandalism and deterioration of buildings on the site.
Doing nothing also means the loss of opportunity to maximise the benefits of the DTF
funded clean-up of the site.
Timelines:
Contamination
PAN- begin to implement required actions by 31 October 2017- ongoing.
First quarterly report due by 30 November 2017.
Draft Clean-up Plan to be provided by DTF following review by Auditor expected end
October/early November 2017.
Liaison with DTF following issuing of draft Clean-up Plan and during development of
Schematic design of Options 1a from early November 2017 to end June 2018.
Aboriginal Cultural Heritage

Engage consultant to prepare a Cultural Heritage Management Plan, as advised by Dja
Dja Wurrung. Commencement date - January 2018. Completion date - May 2018.
Community Consultation
Conduct Option 1a drop-in session by end January 2018.
Development of Schematic Design Option 1a

Engage consultant by end of January 2018.
Draft Schematic Design Option 1a by end April 2018.
Finalise Schematic Design Option1a end June 2018.
Progress:
Significant progress has been made on the future activation this site. The adoption of
Option1a will enable public access, which in turn is likely to result in further ideas for
further site development and use.
PAGE 126
Risk Analysis:
Economic
The main economic risk is that no funding is secured to undertake works required to
open up and use the site. The development of the site will obviously require substantial
funding. Detailed planning of the site is necessary to obtain reliable costs estimates. The
detailed planning and costs will also enable future grant applications and budget
development. The activation of the site will also increase grant opportunities.
Environmental
While DTF is committed to the decontamination, unless other works are undertaken the
site could continue to appear abandoned and dilapidated, especially when viewed from
the parkland at Lake Weeroona. Also, further works may be compromised or cost more
if we are not prepared by having a clear and more detailed plan for the site.
Reputational Risk
If nothing is done on the site and it continues to remain locked up and deteriorating,
Heritage Victoria could serve a show cause notice under the Heritage Act for allowing
the site to fall into disrepair.
The Citys enviable reputation for being a vibrant, creative and culturally rich major
regional centre could suffer due to the failure to make progress on this important heritage
site.
TZG (with Hirst projects) undertook targeted consultation with key stakeholders within
the City of Greater Bendigo, and with community and business leaders. This included:
Bendigo Art Gallery

The Capital, Tourism
Heritage Victoria
National Trust
Bendigo Heritage Attractions
The Discovery Centre
Regional Development Victoria
La Trobe University
While there was generally a high level of interest in the site and the opportunities it
affords, no single clear direction came from this consultation.
The City's staff undertook consultation with the Dja Dja Wurrung and with local youth
through site visits and discussion. Dja Dja Wurrung advised that a Cultural Heritage
Management Plan would be required for the whole site because of the relatively
undisturbed nature of Zone 3.
PAGE 127
The youth groups contributed a number of ideas including free busking area, workshop
spaces, arts related uses and greening of the site.
Broad community consultation was not considered effective until a clear option was
proposed.
TZG and Hirst Projects consulted key staff, and there was also staff representation on
the Project Control Group including from Strategy, Major Projects (prior to re-structure)
and Tourism.
Further community consultation is proposed, subject to a clear proposal/direction being

supported.
Consultation with developers is also proposed for Zones 1 and 3. Group accommodation
(Option2) and residential development (Option 3) were included in the options for Zone 3
proposed by TZG. Larger developers will be critical in the future to ensure the economic
viability long term, and to help offset cost associated with the activation of the site.
Option1a will enable Zones 1 and 3 to be further developed when the economic time is
right.
Further development (Schematic Design) of Option 1a would require engagement of an

architectural firm.
The estimated the cost of schematic design in professional fees of Option 1a to be in the
order of $45,000 including cost planning, but excluding engineering.
The estimated cost of proposed works for Option 1a cannot be determined until the
schematic design is undertaken, but would include design of 2 pedestrian links,
cycle/walking paths, events plaza paving, parking, design for current and future service
needs, toilet facilities, security fencing, gates, lighting, interpretation and the like.
A Cultural Heritage Management Plan is also required, (as advised by Dja Dja Wurrung).
Budget Allocation in the Current Financial Year:
There is a minor allocation ($70,000) for works in current budget allocation for 2017/18
for works to the Purifier Shed, repointing of brick wall and security measures to prevent
vandalism.
Previous Council Support:
The first stage report undertaken by TZG cost $56,000.
PAGE 128
External Funding Sources:
DTF are funding the clean-up of the site.
Detailed planning could open up opportunities for external funding including State and
Commonwealth grant options.
Projected Costs for Future Financial Years:
Cost planning would be undertaken once schematic design for Option 1a is developed
but costs will be significant.
Any ongoing recurrent expenditure required:
TBC.
Attachments
1. Option 1a:- Overview and Plan
PAGE 129
7. LEAD AND GOVERN FOR ALL
7.1 RECORD OF ASSEMBLIES
Author Jessica Clarke-Hong, Manager Governance
Responsible Kerryn Ellis, Director Corporate Performance

Director
Purpose
The purpose of this report is to provide the record of any assembly of Councillors, which
has been held since the last Council Meeting, so that it can be recorded in the Minutes of
the formal Council Meeting.
RECOMMENDATION
That Council endorse the record of assemblies of Councillors as outlined in this report.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Policy Context

Goal 1 Effective community engagement will guide well informed,
allocations, which are transparent and accountable.
A meeting will be an assembly of Councillors if it considers matters that are likely to be

the subject of a Council decision, or, the exercise of a Council delegation and the
meeting is:
1. A planned or scheduled meeting that includes at least half the Councillors (5) and a
member of Council staff; or
2. an advisory committee of the Council where one or more Councillors are present.
PAGE 130
The requirement for reporting provides increased transparency and the opportunity for
Councillors to check the record, particularly the declarations of conflict of interest.
Report
Meeting Information
Meeting Councillors' Briefing
Name/Type
Meeting Date 6 November 2017
Matters discussed 1. Planning matters and draft special meeting and ordinary
agenda review
2. Bendigo Heritage Attractions funding agreement
3. Flood Study and Planning Scheme Amendment
4. Bendigo Freight Study final draft
5. Marong Business Park and Planning Scheme
Amendment
6. Commonwealth Games 2030
7. Faith Leech Aquatic Centre
8. Councillor induction review
Attendees/Apologies
Councillors Cr Margaret O'Rourke
Cr Jennifer Alden
Cr Matt Emond
Cr George Flack
Cr Rod Fyffe
Cr Julie Hoskin
Cr Andrea Metcalf
Cr James Williams
Cr Yvonne Wrigglesworth
Staff/ Mr Craig Niemann
Community Mr David Straw
Representatives Mr Craig Lloyd
Ms Caroline Grylls
Mr Bernie O'Sullivan
Mr Peter Hargreaves
Apologies:
Ms Vicky Mason
Ms Kerryn Ellis
Conflict of Interest disclosures

Matter Councillor/officer making disclosure Councillor/officer left
No. meeting
1 Cr O'Rourke Yes
PAGE 131
Meeting Information
Meeting Councillors' Briefing
Name/Type
Matters discussed 1. Quarterly finance update
2. Briefing on Government Hub proposal
3. Rating properties under the provisions of the Cultural
and Recreational Lands Act 1963
4. Planning Scheme Review Workshop
5. Epsom Huntly Drainage Committee
6. Integrated Emergency Management Planning Committee
7. Update on changes to fire services by Commissioner,
Emergency Management Victoria
Attendees/Apologies
Cr Jennifer Alden
Cr Matt Emond
Cr George Flack
Cr Rod Fyffe
Cr Julie Hoskin
Cr Andrea Metcalf
Cr James Williams
Community Ms Kerryn Ellis
Ms Vicky Mason
Mr Peter Hargreaves

No. meeting
Nil
PAGE 132
Meeting Information
Meeting Councillors' Strategic Workshop Session
Name/Type
Matters discussed Councillors' strategic planning, budget discussions
Attendees/Apologies
Cr Jennifer Alden
Cr Matt Emond
Cr George Flack
Cr Rod Fyffe
Cr Julie Hoskin
Cr Andrea Metcalf
Cr James Williams
Community Ms Kerryn Ellis
Ms Vicky Mason

No. meeting
Nil
Meeting Information
Meeting Consultation meeting
Name/Type
Meeting Date 12 October 2017
Matters discussed Planning application DS/404/2017
63 Sawmill Road, HUNTLY 3551
6 Lot subdivision and removal of native vegetation
Attendees/Apologies
Councillors Cr James Williams
Cr Julie Hoskin
Cr Andrea Metcalf
Staff/ Shannon Rosewarne
Community Applicant
Representatives Objectors

No. meeting
Nil
PAGE 133
Meeting Information
Meeting Consultation meeting
Name/Type
Meeting Date 24 October 2017
Matters discussed Planning application DSD/386/2017
6 Burrowes Street, GOLDEN SQUARE 3555
3 lot subdivision and construction of 2 dwellings
Attendees/Apologies
Councillors Cr Jennifer Alden
Cr Matt Emond
Staff/ Shannon Rosewarne
Community Applicant
Representatives Objectors

No. meeting
Nil
PAGE 134
7.2 CONTRACTS AWARDED UNDER DELEGATION
Author Lee Taig, Contract Support Administrator, Governance Unit

Director
Purpose/Summary
The purpose of this report is to provide information on contracts recently awarded under
delegation.
RECOMMENDATION
That the contracts awarded under delegation, as outlined in this report, be acknowledged
by Council.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Policy Context
Delivery of programs, projects and services that respond to community needs.
City of Greater Bendigo Community Plan 2017-2021
Objective: 1:2 Be innovative and financially responsible
PAGE 135
Report
Capital Contracts
Contract Value Delegated

Project Successful Contractor Date Signed
No (GST Exc) Officer
Nolan Street North
Stabilised Pavements 27 October
CT000348 Bendigo Road $575,439.07 Craig Niemann
of Australia Pty Ltd 2017
Rehabilitation
Bendigo Regional
Avard Civil Pty Ltd 08 November
CT000353 Hockey Complex - Wet $1,294,406.10 Craig Niemann
2017
Pitch Construction
Supply & Delivery of
08 November
CT000356 One (1) Side Loading Bendigo Truck Centre $395,118.60 Craig Lloyd
2017
Compactor
Crowes Road Bridge 14 November
CT000315 GDL Excavations $217,167.20 Craig Lloyd
Replacement 2017
Supply & Construction Downer EDI Works 14 November
CT000349 $375,475.10 Craig Lloyd
of 2017 Tram Tracks Pty Ltd 2017
PAGE 136
7.3 QUARTERLY REPORT - COMMUNITY PLAN
Author Kathryn Loy, Planning and Reporting Officer

Michael Smyth, Manager Business Transformation

Director
Purpose/Summary
To report to Council progress on the implementation of Community Plan actions for the
first quarter 2017/2018 and to present a new format high level summary report for
Council and the community.
RECOMMENDATION
That Council acknowledge the progress of implementing Community Plan actions for
2017/2018, and receive the new format Community Plan quarterly summary report.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Policy Context

City of Greater Bendigo Community Plan 2017-2021
Objective: 1:2 Explain the reason for its decisions
Report
The Community Plan is a key strategic Council document to inform the community and
council officers of Council priorities and commitment to six key goals. The six
Community Plan goals are:
1. Lead and govern for all

2. Wellbeing and fairness
3. Strengthening the economy
4. Presentation and managing growth
5. Environmental sustainability
6. Embracing our culture and heritage
The Community Plan must be reviewed annually and is reported on quarterly.
PAGE 137
Council has previously expressed a desire to improve its approach to making Community
Plan reporting clearer and easier for the community. In response to this feedback, a new
format quarterly Community Plan summary report has been developed and will be
shared with the community for the first time this quarter at Attachment 1. This report
supplements the full action report which is available at Attachment 2.
Conclusion
The Community Plan 2017-2021 is Councils key strategic plan that guides the work of
Council and informs the community of the shared priorities of this Council for its four-year
term. Reporting on progress against this plan is an important mechanism for keeping the
community up to date with the work of Council, and its progress implementing the
Community Plan. The new summary report provides for a more accessible format to
complement the detailed action plan report, and share key achievements for the quarter.
Attachment 1
Community Plan summary report
Attachment 2
Community Plan detailed action report
PAGE 138
PAGE 139
PAGE 140
PAGE 141
PAGE 142
PAGE 143
PAGE 144
City of Greater Bendigo
Community Plan Progress Report
Period: July - September 2017

Quarterly Report
145
City of Greater Bendigo COUNCIL PLAN PROGRESS REPORT (17/18)
Council Plan Progress Report

Goal: 1 Lead and govern for all
Action Status % Comp Progress Comments Responsible Officers Due Date
Objective: 1.1 Engage with all communities

Strategy: 1.1.1 Encourage community participation by citizens in the development of new strategies and policies
1.1.1.1 Investigate and pilot an online community Not Started 0% This work is yet to commence Manager 30/06/2018
reference committee. . Communications
1.1.1.2 Undertake corporate and consumer Not Started 0% The Communications unit has been allocated $70,000 for Manager 30/06/2018
marketing that is aligned with Councils marketing, however some of this funding in the current Communications
annual plan for key projects, initiatives and financial year will have to be put towards subscription costs.
services, outlining to the community the It is expected between $30,000 and $50,000 approximately
benefits of Councils investment will be available for marketing. The Communications unit
planning day will identify projects/campaigns this funding
can be put towards. This thinking will then be tested with the
newly formed Communications, Marketing and Engagement
Advisory Group.
Strategy: 1.1.2 Meet with community members in their local settings more often
1.1.2.1 Continue to conduct Councillor and senior In Progress 50% The Lockwood Ward tour was completed in October which Manager Governance 30/06/2018
staff community tours to facilitate meeting completes three ward tours conducted for the 2017 calendar
with members of all Greater Bendigo year.
communities
1.1.2.2 Use other meeting models, such as Coffee In Progress 25% Councillors participated in a total of 5 Coffee with Councillor Manager Governance 30/06/2018
with a Councillor and ward Listening Posts sessions and 7 Listening Posts for the quarter.
to provide a variety of options for the
exchange of information
1.1.2.3: Use existing networks and community In Progress 25% Currently using community enterprise groups and organised Manager Governance 30/06/2018
groups as a framework for meeting with community forums as a vehicle to engage with the wider
community members community.
Objective 1.2 Explain the reason for its decisions

Strategy: 1.2.1 Communication will be community-focussed using plain language
1.2.1.1 No Council identified action in this year.
Strategy: 1.2.2 Use a broad range of engagement and communication techniques

1.2.2.1 Seek input from community members and Not Started 0% This work is yet to commence. Manager 30/06/2018
visitors and provide feedback using a variety Communications
of methods to meet the preferences of
PAGE 146


Strategy: 1.2.2 Use a broad range of engagement and communication techniques
residents and visitors about being kept
informed of Council activity
Strategy: 1.2.3 Document and communicate in a consistent common style
1.2.3.1 Ensure staff members community Not Started 0% To be completed as part of the development of the updated Manager 30/06/2018
engagement obligations are informed by the Communications Strategy. Communications
principles set out in the Communications
Strategy
Objective: 1.3 Be innovative and financially responsible
Strategy: 1.3.1 Advocate on priority issues including public transport, regional development, planning for liveable communities and population growth
1.3.1.1 Take advantage of and leverage grant and In Progress 25% Work has commenced on developing a list of projects for the Chief Executive Officer 30/06/2018
funding opportunities at the local and municipality. Workshops will be held to identify the priority
regional level from State and Federal projects and a booklet will be produced to assist in
Government as they arise promoting the projects to State and Federal Government.
Strategy: 1.3.2 Ensure value for investment on behalf of the community
1.3.2.1 Conduct a review of Councils annual In Progress 50% A workgroup has gathered feedback, reviewed the Manager Business 30/06/2018
planning and budgeting processes to ensure processes, and developed an implementation plan to Transformation
funding is directed to Council priorities in line continually improve the annual planning and budgeting
with the Community Plan 2017-2021 processes.
1.3.2.2 Review the contract for the supply of animal In Progress 25% An internal review of the contract with the RSPCA for the Manager Safe & Healthy 30/06/2018
pound services provision of pound services has been completed. Most Environments
criteria received a rating of satisfactory or above. Some
concerns were identified with communication and capacity
and the shelter facility, however recent trends in both have
been favourable. The CEO, Director and Manager recently
met with the RSPCA CEO and operations manager to
discuss the RSPCA vision and regional intentions.
Discussions are commencing about contract renewal, pricing
and services leading up to contract negotiations in April
2018.
1.3.2.3 Continue to build opportunities for regional In Progress 25% Negotiations are continuing on joint regional tenders Manage Governance 30/06/2018
collaboration and shared procurement to including;
deliver. efficiencies in Councils contract - Waste
expenditure - Asbestos
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Strategy: 1.3.2 Ensure value for investment on behalf of the community
City of Greater Bendigo is also facilitating procurement
information sessions for regional councils on an ongoing
basis.
Strategy: 1.3.3 Actively seek more funding opportunities from Federal, State and private investors
1.3.3.1 Monitor Federal and State Government In Progress 25% The Mayor and CEO met with key politicians in Canberra to Director Strategy & 30/06/2018
policy developments and initiatives to create advance the interests of Greater Bendigo. The City prepared Growth
a competitive advantage for Bendigo and a detailed submission to the Federal House of
the region Representatives Select Committee on Regional
Development and Decentralisation. Several roundtable
events were held with federal and state politicians with
Bendigo Manufacturing Group members.
Objective: 1.4 Be accountable and efficient in its use of the communitys money
Strategy: 1.4.1 Allocate resources to meet needs that strengthen communities to improve the quality of peoples lives
1.4.1.1 Develop the 2018-2019 budget to deliver on In Progress 10% Budget launch for 2018/19 has commenced, including initial Manager Financial 30/06/2018
key priorities of the community, as outlined Councillor briefings and Business Case and budget Strategy
in the Community Plan 2017-2021 guidance documentation created and distributed to
Councillors and staff.
1.4.1.2 Continue to develop Councils Long Term In Progress 10% Initial roll-over of the Long Term Financial Plan has Manager Financial 30/06/2018
Financial Plan as a tool for modelling the commenced using audited account details from 2016/2017. Strategy
financial implications of any proposed The Organisational accountant attended set-up and
change to service or funding levels, and for user-group meeting in September to progress this work.
supporting good decision-making
1.4.1.3 Continue to promote sustainable purchasing In Progress 50% The Procurement policy has been reviewed and was Manage Governance 30/06/2018
within the Citys operations through a review adopted by Council at their August 2017 meeting.
of the Procurement Policy and support with Strengthened sustainability provisions were a key element of
reviewing contract documentation the review.
Strategy: 1.4.2 Develop our staff and systems to deliver the best outcomes for our community
1.4.2.1 Continue to implement priority actions of the In Progress 10% A number of projects are in progress or planned from Manager Information 30/06/2018
IT Strategy that deliver organisational recommendations that came out of the IT strategy. The Technology
efficiencies and improved customer rebuild of the intranet has commenced with staff surveys
experience. Projects to be delivered in distributed and feedback presently being evaluated.
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Strategy: 1.4.2 Develop our staff and systems to deliver the best outcomes for our community
2017-2018 include redesign and rebuild of Improved online payments using Pathway has been quoted
the intranet and improved options for on and its implementation is presently being mapped out.
customers to make online payments
1.4.2.2 Continue to build a high-performance In Progress 15% Workshops to initiate the development of an organisational Manager People & 30/06/2018
organisation through delivery of key actions, capability framework are scheduled for late October. Culture
including development of a new capability
framework for the Citys leadership team and
staff at all levels to guide future investment
in learning and development
1.4.2.3 Finalise implementation of the new In Progress 80% An induction program has been developed and delivered for Manager People & 30/06/2018
organisational structure, including delivering the Organisation Leadership Teams following the Culture
a comprehensive leadership induction implementation of the stage 2 restructure. Tools have also
program to continue to build a high been developed for the induction of future new managers.
performing leadership team The new organisation structure has been fully implemented.
1.4.2.4 Develop and commence delivery of an In Progress 25% Development has commenced with presentations to service Manager Business 30/06/2018
organisational business improvement units about what customer focussed solutions means. A Transformations
framework to achieve efficiencies and co-design session with OLT is to be scheduled.
improve customer and staff experience
1.4.2.5 Provide a timely response to more than In Progress 25% Customer Support unit is adequately resourced to respond Manager Business 30/06/2018
45,000 customer service requests annually, to customer demands. Delivery of service including closing Transformations
supporting the community with matters the loop is tracked through Pathways Request System.
including waste, animal services and Results are reported back to EMT quarterly as a minimum.
maintenance of Council assets, properties
and trees
1.4.2.6 Complete development of the organisations In Progress 25% The organisational Culture remeasure is scheduled for Manager People & 30/06/2018
Culture Strategy and commence February 2018. Initial planning has commenced. A new Culture
implementation to build an engaged, skilled strategy will be developed using the results of the
and high performing workforce remeasure.
Objective: 1.5 Take a leadership role in regional planning, advocacy and work in partnership with regional councils
Strategy: 1.5.1 Advocate on priority issues that may impact the region
1.5.1.1 Complete and commence implementation of In Progress 75% Plan Greater Bendigo is on track within the agreed timeline Manager Regional 30/06/2018
Plan Greater Bendigo with the VPA and Council - scheduled completion end of Sustainable
January 2018. Development
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Objective: 1.5 Take a leadership role in regional planning, advocacy and work in partnership with regional councils
Strategy: 1.5.1 Advocate on priority issues that may impact the region
1.5.1.2 In partnership with Be.Bendigo continue to In Progress 25% The City of Greater Bendigo and Be.Bendigo have been Director Strategy & 30/06/2018
support advocacy for a City Deals and/or working closely together and prepared a number of Smarter Growth
Smart Cities bid Greater Bendigo Alliance documents to assist with advocacy
at a state and federal level. The Mayor and CEO advocated
for a Bendigo City Deal whilst in Canberra. Strong support
has been shown by state and federal politicians.
1.5.1.3 Plan for and support advocacy for the In Progress 25% Extensive discussions with VicRoads Manager Regional 30/06/2018
Western Bendigo Regional Transport Links Part of Plan Greater Bendigo Sustainable
project incorporating the Marong Business Links with Marong Business Park and Marong Structure Plan Development
Park, western and northern bypasses of following rezoning
Marong Township and the Bendigo Metro Traffic modelling nearing completion
Rail connection to Marong
1.5.1.4 Continue advocacy campaigns on issues In Progress 25% Advocacy efforts have continued in the first quarter of Director Corporate 30/06/2018
that affect the Greater Bendigo community 2017/2018. A submission was provided to the Parliamentary Performance
and Council, such as rate capping, cost enquiry into the state government's Fair Go Rates System,
shifting and changes to property valuation and to the Department of Treasury and Finance's review of
legislation the statutory property valuations system in Victoria. Both
submissions articulated the impact of these policies on
Council and the community. Advocacy on the valuations
issue was also undertaken with the Premier of Victoria and
local state members of Parliament. In addition support has
been provided for advocacy efforts on cost shifting issues on
a case-by-case basis, and submissions to Parliamentary
enquiries have been supported where relevant.
Strategy: 1.5.2 Use existing networks and other opportunities to maintain strong partnerships with other municipalities
1.5.2.1 Continue working with the Loddon In Progress 25% The 2017 Loddon Campaspe Regional Partnership Chief Executive Officer 30/06/2018
Campaspe Regional Partnership for mutual Assembly was held on 17 August. The Assembly provides
advantage regional communities the opportunity of identifying emerging
regional priorities which are then presented to the Victorian
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Strategy: 1.5.2 Use existing networks and other opportunities to maintain strong partnerships with other municipalities
Government. Topics included - creating the best start for our
Children; being connected through better transport systems
and digital technology; promoting better health outcomes for
our people; connecting people with the natural environment;
growing our economy; skills and pathways to employment;
sustainability and renewables. Emerging ideas will be
discussed at future Regional Partnership meetings ad
priority projects will be progressed.
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Goal: 2 Wellbeing and fairness
Objective: 2.1 Create a much healthier Greater Bendigo

Strategy: 2.1.1 Implement the Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan
2.1.1.1 Lead the implementation of year one actions In Progress 25% Draft Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan Director Health & 30/06/2018
from the adopted Municipal Public Health 2017 - 2021 is on the agenda for endorsement at the Wellbeing
and Wellbeing Plan 2017-2021 in October Council meeting. Year one actions are progressing
partnership with stakeholder organisations as outlined in the quarterly Community Plan report.
Strategy: 2.1.2 Contribute to health policy development
2.1.2.1 Update Council's Gaming Policy In Progress 20% A Council workshop in August explored opportunities to Director Health & 30/06/2018
update Council's Gaming Policy. Presenters from VCGLR, Wellbeing
VLGA and Anglicare provided perspectives on issues for
Council consideration. Further work with VLGA organised.
Strategy: 2.1.3 Plan for fairer health outcomes
2.1.3.1 Complete the annual actions within the In Progress 25% Implementation on track including action planning for both Manager Community 30/06/2018
Rural Communities Strategy including Rural Communities Committee and Farming Advisory Partnerships
developing a State of Rural Communities Committee. Progress on developing the State of Rural
Report and supporting the newly established Communities Report is still pending availability of Census
Rural Communities Committee and Farming data. Engagement of rural communities has been revitalized
Advisory Committee and resources increased. Ward tours for all three wards
have been completed and an internal group of relevant
business units has been working together to implement
actions arising from the tours.
2.1.3.2 Explore opportunities to strengthen inclusive In Progress 10% Mapping of current work undertaken to inform planning. Director Health & 30/06/2018
employment Wellbeing
2.1.3.3 Lead the development of a Gender Equity In Progress 20% Project brief approved by Council. Internal working group Director Health & 30/06/2018
Strategy for Greater Bendigo formed with support from Loddon Mallee Women's Health Wellbeing
CEO. Data profile and Community Engagement Plan
developed.
2.1.3.4 Partner with community organisations to In Progress 25% On track for successful 2017 White Ribbon Day. Local Manager Community 30/06/2018
plan and deliver the Bendigo White Ribbon support continues to increase with this year Bendigo and Partnerships
Day District Cricket Association partnering to host a full round in
the local cricket league dedicated to the cause.
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Objective: 2.2 Promote positive wellbeing across the Greater Bendigo community
Strategy: 2.2.1 Prioritise efforts to promote physical and mental wellbeing
2.2.1.1 Implement priority projects that deliver the In Progress 25% Project list prepared and priorities established with ITLUS Manager Regional 30/06/2018
adopted Connecting Greater Bendigo: Governance Group - meeting held 26 September Sustainable
Integrated Transport and Land Use Strategy Development
About 50% of priority projects are under implementation
2.2.1.2 Complete the Public Space Strategy and In Progress 65% Public Space Strategy is on track to be completed mid Manager Regional 30/06/2018
commence implementation 2018 - two year project Sustainable
Development
2.2.1.3 Construct the Eaglehawk Place Space In Progress 20% Final detailed documentation has been completed. Tender Manager Parks & Open 30/06/2018
has been advertised and closes 24 Oct 2017. Space
2.2.1.4 Complete stage two of the Bendigo Regional In Progress 10% Site assessment programmed. Consultation is ongoing. Coordinator Community 30/06/2018
BMX track upgrade Projects
2.2.1.5 Complete the updated Walking and Cycling In Progress 10% Review of existing strategy and outstanding projects Healthy Lifestyles Officer 30/06/2018
Strategy and commence implementation complete. Reference group being developed.. - Strategy & Policy
2.2.1.6 Support the local implementation of the new In Progress 25% New statewide smoking bans and tobacco control laws were Coordinator Food & 30/06/2018
state-wide smoking bans affected in August, 2017. The City has been working to Tobacco
inform business proprietors and our community of the new
requirements. This has involved mail outs, meetings,
inspections, education visits, distribution of signage and
materials, social media updates, and patrols. Many local
businesses have been proactive in adopting the new laws
and many community members have been active in
establishing the new community standards. With new laws of
this nature, a three month period is granted as a defence,
meaning enforcement to this point has not been warranted.
Moving forward, the approach to implementing the new bans
may shift a little as new implementation tools such as
enforcement become available.
2.2.1.7 Develop the Hard Court Facilities Strategy In Progress 60% Work completed to date on the strategy includes an audit of Coordinator Strategy & 30/06/2018
all facilities throughout Greater Bendigo, a survey of tennis Policy
and netball clubs in Greater Bendigo and a number of
workshops with local Netball and Tennis association and
league representatives, relevant state sporting associations
(Tennis Victoria and Netball Victoria) and Sport and
Recreation Victoria. A draft key findings report has been
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Objective: 2.2 Promote positive wellbeing across the Greater Bendigo community
Strategy: 2.2.1 Prioritise efforts to promote physical and mental wellbeing
produced for PCG feedback prior to the development of a
draft strategy.
2.2.1.8 Commence operation of the Greater Not Started 0% Construction underway. Operational elements to commence Manager Active & 30/06/2018
Bendigo Indoor Aquatic and Wellbeing during final 5 months of construction (recruitment, training, Healthy Lifestyles
Centre at Kangaroo Flat membership sales etc).
2.2.1.9 Conduct the Cigarette Sales to Minors Test In Progress 25% The 'cigarette sales to minors test purchasing program' Coordinator Food & 30/06/2018
Purchasing Program commenced in September 2017 for this financial year. The Tobacco
program is implemented by some LGA's as part of a suite of
initiatives funded by the State to restrict the sale of tobacco
products to minors. Thirty one (31) tobacco retailers where
visited by a minor employed by the City, accompanied by
Authorised Officers, to ensure that retailers ask for
identification as proof of age, or refuse the sale. One (1)
retailer sold to the minor with a warning issued, and
additional education provided.
2.2.1.10 Promote a pool safety in private homes In Progress 20% The City's media campaign to highlight to importance of pool Municipal Building 30/06/2018
campaign safety has begun. This will focus particularly on the message Surveyor
of ensuring pool barriers are operating properly. The City
continues to responds to complaint about pool safety as a
priority. Inspectors also are vigilant when working in the
municipality checking pool barriers and following up on
notices.
Strategy: 2.2.2 Design settings and environments that can create better health outcomes
2.2.2.1 Complete detailed design for the Bendigo In Progress 10% Functional design brief and community engagement plan Coordinator Community 30/06/2018
Skate Park developed. Projects
2.2.2.2 Implement projects to facilitate the safe In Progress 10% Application submitted for funding from the Transport Manager Engineering 30/06/2018
movement of people on foot and bicycle Accident Commissions Safe System Road Infrastructure
around the Bendigo city centre and other Program to undertake pedestrian safety works and introduce
activity centres a 40km speed limit on non-arterial roads in the CBD.
Feasibility Study for the Bendigo Creek "Low Line" shared
path in progress.
2.2.2.3 Complete the Raywood Recreation Reserve In Progress 10% Project brief has been finalised and is currently out to quote Coordinator Strategy & 30/06/2018
Master Plan and undertake resultant design with a number of specialised consultants. Policy
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Strategy: 2.2.2 Design settings and environments that can create better health outcomes
works
2.2.2.4 Complete detailed design for the Strathdale In Progress 25% Project control group continues to meet and has developed Manager Community 30/06/2018
Community Centre redevelopment project scope and design principles. Tender documentation being Partnerships
prepared.
2.2.2.5 Complete designs for construction of netball In Progress 10% Designers appointed and initial user engagement complete. Coordinator Community 30/06/2018
changeroom facilities at Queen Elizabeth Projects
Oval
2.2.2.6 Complete designs for upgrades at Ewing Not Started 0% Design has not yet started, due to commence January 2018. Coordinator Community 30/06/2018
Park Projects
2.2.2.7 Complete the Golden Square Recreation Not Started 0% Work scheduled to commence at the beginning of 2018. Coordinator Strategy & 30/06/2018
Reserve Master Plan Policy
2.2.2.8 Install additional pedestrian crossings, In Progress 20% Application submitted for funding from the Transport Manager Engineering 30/06/2018
Including at Bendigo Art Gallery, Hargreaves Accident Commissions Safe System Road Infrastructure
and Mundy Streets and Queen and Edwards Program to undertake these pedestrian safety works as part
Street intersections of a wider CBD traffic safety program.
2.2.2.9 Install new bus shelters in identified In Progress 50% Shelter installation program underway. Shelters installed at Manager Engineering 30/06/2018
locations in urban and rural areas 368 Midland Highway, Epsom; Reserve Street at Eaglehawk
Secondary College, Eaglehawk; 165 High Street, Heathcote
(Heritage Shelter); Site preparations undertaken at 72
Carolyn Way, Maiden Gully; 14 Beckhams Road, Maiden
Gully; Duke Street, Kangaroo Flat; 79 Murphy Street, East
Bendigo; 131 High Street, Heathcote.
2.2.2.10 Complete lighting upgrades at White Hills In Progress 15% Designs complete, geo-tech obtained. Tenders to be Healthy Lifestyles Officer 30/06/2018
Football and Netball Club advertised November 2017. Community Projects
2.2.2.11 Complete designs for Epsom and In Progress 15% Site assessment complete. Community engagement about Coordinator Community 30/06/2018
Kangaroo Flat skate parks locations underway. Projects
Strategy: 2.2.3 Build on partnerships and co-ordination of information with health and other agencies
2.2.3.1: Commence the development of a In Progress 25% On track. Project brief has been drafted and engagement Manager Community 30/06/2018
Community Volunteering Strategy plan being developed. Partnerships
2.2.3.2 Complete the Heathcote Integrated Services In Progress 25% Project control group formed and scope being developed. Manager Community 30/06/2018
Project as a basis for decisions about future This will occur in conjunction with new toilet project due to Partnerships
developments proximity, similar stakeholders and community interest.
Goldfields Library has joined the governance group.
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Strategy: 2.2.3 Build on partnerships and co-ordination of information with health and other agencies
2.2.3.3: Review the Aquatic Strategy and develop a In Progress 5% Draft brief developed. To commence December 2017. Manager Active & 30/06/2018
sustainable model for swimming pool Healthy Lifestyles
2.2.3.4: Actively participate in the GREATER Obesity In Progress 20% Participated in GREATER planning workshops during Director Health & 30/06/2018
Prevention Initiative September and October. Outcome to inform future activities. Wellbeing
2.2.3.5: Relocate Maternal and Child Health Completed 100% Relocation completed. Director Health & 30/06/2018
Services from the Annie Galvin Early Wellbeing
Learning Centre and The Mews to Bendigo
Community Health Services
2.2.3.6: Support the Bendigo Maubisse Friendship In Progress 25% Support for Committee continues. Memorandum of Manager Community 30/06/2018
Committee to partner with the Ballarat Understand developed between Ballarat and Bendigo Partnerships
committee and implement annual friendship groups. Coordination group from both
community development actions in Ainaro, organizations has also been formed. Annual forum between
Timor Leste the two currently being planned.
2.2.3.7: Complete detailed designs for integration of In Progress 5% Consultation with Bowls Club undertaken. Assessment of Coordinator Community 30/06/2018
Strathfieldsaye Bowls Club into the existing existing building and design underway. Projects
pavilion
2.2.3.8: Install two water stations on the OKeefe In Progress 10% Meetings held with O'Keefe Rail Trail Representatives on Manager Engineering 30/06/2018
Rail Trail priority locations for water stations and project management
arrangements commenced. Meeting also held with Coliban
Water CEO re joint initiative.
Strategy: 2.2.4 Support a localised sustainable food system
2.2.4.1: Explore opportunities to develop a food Not Started 0% Work scheduled to commence late 2017. Brief under Coordinator Strategy & 30/06/2018
policy that coordinates a broad range of development. Policy
themes, including healthy eating and the
Greater Bendigo Food Hub
Objective: 2.3 Promote community connection

Strategy: 2.3.1 Support the development and implementation of local community plans
2.3.1.1: Support the completion of revised In Progress 50% New community plans for all of these areas is well advanced Manager Community 30/06/2018
community plans in Axedale, Heathcote, and ahead of schedule. All are anticipated to be launched Partnerships
Maiden Gully and Marong before Christmas.
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Objective: 2.3 Promote community connection

Strategy: 2.3.1 Support the development and implementation of local community plans
2.3.1.2: Continue to implement the In Progress 25% Service Review Plan supported by EMT. Maintenance and Manager Property 30/06/2018
recommendations of the Property Service associated renewal programs works currently underway. Services
Level Plan to ensure critical community Greater focus placed on ensuring high use faculties are
buildings are maintained and renewed to an being maintained as per the communities expectations
agreed service level and standard
2.3.1.3: Implement the Community Grants program In Progress 25% Round 1 of 2017/18 community grants has been completed Manager Community 30/06/2018
and review the grants policy and annual and formally considered on 18 October. Data on the grants Partnerships
capacity-building program policy and program from 2013 - 2017 has been analysed
and presented to Council in early October. Engagement now
underway to develop revised policy and program for
Councils consideration.
Strategy: 2.3.2 Partner to encourage opportunities that enable community access and inclusion
2.3.2.1 Install lighting at the Marist senior football In Progress 15% Designs being updated for tender late 2017 Healthy Lifestyles Officer 30/06/2018
oval and the tennis/netball courts Community Projects
2.3.2.2 Complete the annual actions of the In Progress 20% Implementation progressing well. This has included hosting Manager Community 30/06/2018
Reconciliation Plan including supporting the launch of Bendigo NAIDOC Week and Flag Raising at Partnerships
NAIDOC and Reconciliation week, cultural the Town Hall on July 5 with the theme: Songlines: Our
awareness training for employees and Languages Matter. Over 150 people attended the launch
developing organisational protocols which included traditional Welcome To Country and
presentation of Bendigo Access Scholarships. The City
supported BDAC and other local organisations to hold an
Indigenous Film Festival to promote 2017 Reconciliation
Week. The Film Festival included showings at Latrobe
University, TAFE, Ulumbarra and Star Cinema.
Consisting of two sessions, Indigenous Cultural Awareness
Training for employees has been developed and formally
commences in November.
Draft Organisational Protocols have been developed ready
for graphic design.
2.3.2.3: Work closely with the Goldfields Library In Progress 25% Wide range of programs delivered Director Community 30/06/2018
Corporation to deliver library services to the Wellbeing
Greater Bendigo community that promote
learning, literacy and engagement at all life
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Strategy: 2.3.2 Partner to encourage opportunities that enable community access and inclusion
stages
Strategy: 2.3.3 Ensure there are facilities that allow people to come together for social and learning purposes and to have fun
2.3.3.1: Complete construction of facilities at the In Progress 80% Bendigo Tennis Centre Pavilion Construction completed Manager Property 30/06/2018
Bendigo Tennis Centre September 2017. Detailed documentation for Grandstand Services
completed with Planning Permit application pending.
subsequent tender to follow late October 2017
2.3.3.2 Upgrade the Albert Roy Reserve In Progress 20% Finalising designs for construction tenders to be advertised Healthy Lifestyles Officer 30/06/2018
November 2017 Community Projects
2.3.3.3: Replace the synthetic hockey pitch at In Progress 15% Construction tenders advertised and being assessed Coordinator Community 30/06/2018
Garden Gully Reserve Projects
2.3.3.4: Resurface the Flora Hill athletics track In Progress 10% Design and specification being finalised. Tender advertising Coordinator Community 30/06/2018
expected November 2017 Projects
2.3.3.5: Install lighting for multiple pitches at In Progress 10% Designs and geo-tech complete. Tender November 2017 Healthy Lifestyles Officer 30/06/2018
Strathdale Park . Community Projects
2.3.3.6: Partner with the Redesdale community to In Progress 25% Implementation on track however there has been some Manager Community 30/06/2018
undertake detailed design of their minor difficulties with local community members not agreeing Partnerships
Community Hub and help advocate for State on some aspects. Tender specification are drafted and
Government funding for construction design nearing commencement.
2.3.3.7 Construct the Garden of the Future at In Progress 50% Site construction is well underway with earthworks Manager Parks & Open 30/06/2018
Bendigo Botanic Gardens completed and the outreach shelter commenced. Space
2.3.3.8: Install infrastructure for dog parks at In Progress 10% Preliminary designs commenced Manager Parks & Open 30/06/2018
Kangaroo Flat and California Gully Space
2.3.3.9: Undertake ongoing safety and renewal In Progress 25% Short and long term renewal works identified, including Manager Property 30/06/2018
works to Councils poppethead structures Rosalind Park. Services
Additional signs and lighting have been updated on both

poppet heads also.
Detailed Scope currently underway to support procurement
of contractor and subsequent implementation of works.
2.3.3.10: Explore opportunities to extend the In Progress 10% Limited progress to date Director Health & 30/06/2018
Goldfields Library Agency Model to other Wellbeing
communities
2.3.3.11: Continue to undertake accessibility audits Ongoing Building Services conduct these audits when requested by Manager Safe & Healthy 30/06/2018
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Strategy: 2.3.3 Ensure there are facilities that allow people to come together for social and learning purposes and to have fun
for Councils property assets and program other units. In most instances these audits are completed on Environments
ongoing improvement/upgrade works to Council owned or managed buildings. In some instances
improve access for all of the community these audits involve buildings owned by other government
agencies. These inspections are conducted on an ongoing
basis.
Objective: 2.4 Support participation and development for residents of all ages and abilities
Strategy: 2.4.1 Continue to promote a child-friendly municipality
2.4.1.1: Complete construction of the Strathfieldsaye In Progress 55% Building Contractor appointed for Strathfieldsaye Early Manager Property 30/06/2018
Early Learning Centre and undertake Learning Centre construction with anticipated completion Services
concept planning for the Huntly Early Years early 2018. Concept design development of Huntly Early
Hub Years Hub completed
2.4.1.2: Investigate the feasibility of the City of In Progress 30% Early investigations completed. Meeting set with Loddon Director Health & 30/06/2018
Greater Bendigo managing pre-school Mallee Preschool Association to explore Wellbeing
enrolments centrally
2.4.1.3: Deliver immunisations for infants and In Progress 25% Program delivered as scheduled. HPV catch-up program Director Health & 30/06/2018
schoolchildren in accordance with the underway Wellbeing
National Immunisation Schedule and
maintain immunisation rates above 95% in
the municipality
2.4.1.4 Provide the Maternal and Child Health In Progress 25% Service review of program underway Director Health & 30/06/2018
Universal program and achieve participation Wellbeing
rates of the Key Age and Stage visits for
children 12 months and under above 90%
2.4.1.5 Extend the Enhanced Maternal and Child In Progress 25% Attended Early Childhood Reform briefing. Information on Director Health & 30/06/2018
Health Program to support families and additional funding not yet received Wellbeing
vulnerable children from 0-1 year to 0-3
years
2.4.1.6 Provide high quality child care services at In Progress 25% Services continue to be provided to a high standard Director Health & 30/06/2018
Annie Galvin and Helen Jessen Early Wellbeing
Learning Centres and achieve utilisation
rates above 85%
2.4.1.7 Complete the annual actions of the In Progress 25% Work has begun on reviewing the plan in preparation for Director Health & 30/06/2018
Municipal Early Years Plan including development of a new one in 2018/2019 Wellbeing
reviewing the Citys services
2.4.1.8 Complete Play Space construction at In Progress 10% Initial scoping for Derwent Drive and Olympic Parade Manager Parks & Open 30/06/2018
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Objective: 2.4 Support participation and development for residents of all ages and abilities
Strategy: 2.4.1 Continue to promote a child-friendly municipality
Strathdale Park, Derwent Drive Long Gully commenced Space
and Olympic Parade Kangaroo Flat
Strategy: 2.4.2 Partner to build connections for young people
2.4.2.1 Engage with young people and service In Progress 25% The period of public exhibition for the Draft Youth Strategy Manager Community 30/06/2018
partners to complete the new Youth Strategy concluded on September 29. During this period, further Partnerships
and annual actions, including the FreeZa consultation forums were held with young people, youth
program and a graffiti prevention project agencies and City staff. Submissions were invited and online
survey provided. The results of the feedback will be
presented as part of a report to Council in December. The
CBD Graffiti Prevention Project funded by the Department of
Justice and Regulation has been completed. The Project
comprised involving at risk young people in education
workshops, art lessons and installations completed in
Pennyweight Lane and Shamrock Lane. The 2017/18
FREEZA Music Program has commenced with the annual
Battle of the Bands held at Lake Weeroona Rowing Facility
in September.
Strategy: 2.4.3 Support positive ageing
2.4.3.1 Partner with the Positive Ageing Advisory In Progress 10% Work has begun on developing a project brief for a positive Director Health & 30/06/2018
Group to develop a Positive Ageing Strategy ageing strategy Wellbeing
2.4.3.2 Undertake a review of Home Support In Progress 25% Workshop with senior staff and external partners to assist Director Health & 30/06/2018
services with developing a project plan Wellbeing
2.4.3.3 Deliver Home Support services to eligible In Progress 25% Service meeting current demand Director Health & 30/06/2018
people with disabilities and older people Wellbeing
according to their assessed needs
2.4.3.4 Achieve a minimum of 80% compliance with In Progress 25% Preparation underway for external review in February 2018 Director Health & 30/06/2018
the Home Care Standards Wellbeing
Strategy: 2.4.4 Support positive life opportunities for people living with a disability
2.4.4.1 Implement the annual actions of the In Progress 25% Implementation going well with the guidance of the Disability Manager Community 30/06/2018
Community Access and Inclusion Action Inclusion Reference Committee and the full plan is nearing Partnerships
Plan including establishing a portable completion. The portable universally accessible toilet (or
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Strategy: 2.4.4 Support positive life opportunities for people living with a disability
universally accessible toilet and Marvaloo) is under construction and due for completion 15
disability-friendly businesses program November. The disability-friendly business program has
been piloted and evaluation conducted with support of
LaTrobe university. The pilot has proven successful and
enabled the City to secure a Federal grant (through the
NDIS) to expand the program across Loddon and Mount
Alexander Shire. This is now underway.
2.4.4.2 Review the arrangements for the provision In Progress 20% Work has begun on the scoping document for the Safe and Coordinator Parking 30/06/2018
of disabled parking Healthy Environments service review, focussing on parking Services
in the municipality. While the service review will focus on the
broader issues of timed parking and residential parking, it
will include a review of the provision of disabled parking in
the municipality. This will include focus on the number of
disabled parks provided by the City, where they are located,
pricing and permit process.
2.4.4.3 Support eligible younger clients to transfer In Progress 50% Approximately 250 Home and Community Care PYP clients Director Health & 30/06/2018
from the Home and Community Care have transitioned to the NDIS. Wellbeing
Program for Younger People to the National
Disability Inclusion Scheme (NDIS) and
assist those people who may be ineligible
for the scheme
Objective: 2.5 Create safe and resilient communities

Strategy: 2.5.1 Strengthen community safety
2.5.1.1 Implement the second year actions of the In Progress 25% The DAMP implementation is progressing well. In addition to Manager Safe & Healthy 30/06/2018
Domestic Animal Management Plan, previous actions completed, the last quarter has seen: Environments
including promoting animal registration, * training in restricted breed identification
micro-chipping and responsible pet * investigation into digital mailbox receipting* targeting door
ownership knocking canvassing the community about unregistered
animals
* assessment of trapping program and conclusion that data
does not support the need for more traps
* uptake of the de-sexing voucher data analysed and
PAGE 161


alternatives means of achieving de-sexing under
consideration
* support provided to Parks and Open Space for the
construction of the 2 new dog parks
* consideration of the need to provide rooster collars
concluded that this is not required
* discussions with RSPCA and a commitment to work
collaboratively on a cat de-sexing program
2.5.1.2 Develop an action plan for a consistent Not Started 0% This work has not yet commenced. The recruitment for the Coordinator Parking 30/06/2018
approach to managing safe parking around position Coordinator Parking Strategy will soon be Services
schools completed with new structure being implemented on 4
December 2017.
2.5.1.3 Continue street lighting upgrades and new In Progress 75% Program of works underway. Manager Engineering 30/06/2018
installations in parks and streets
2.5.1.4 Achieve required targets that ensure the In Progress 22% Officers Authorised under the Food Act for the first quarter Coordinator Food & 30/06/2018
quality of food available from food have completed: Tobacco
businesses in the municipality is safe and 161 - Food Premises assessment inspections (class 1 and
suitable for consumption 2)
30 - Food premise routine inspections
19 - Mandatory inspections premise annual inspections
(class 3)
39 - Food premise follow up inspections
15 - Food premise transfer inspections
The team have used a risk based approach focussing on
class 1 and class 2 premises.
The team have received and responded to twenty (20) food
premises complaints, issued 1 penalty infringement notice
(PIN) and have commenced or are in the process of
undertaking legal action on three (3) premises for breaches
of the Act.
A total of 467 statement of trades have been issued, fifty one
(51) Class 4 notifications received and twenty five (25)
Streetrader applications processes.
Seventy four (74) food samples have been taken for
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microbiological analysis.
2.5.1.5 Complete the review of Local Laws number In Progress 70% The review of Local Laws number 3, 4 and 5 continues to Manager Safe & Healthy 30/06/2018
3, 4, 5 and 10 progress well with 80% of the subgroup meetings and the Environments
Councillor briefing session completed. The draft is now being
finalised to go to formal Council meeting in December
seeking support for release for public exhibition over January
2018.
There have been delays in this project, however we remain

on schedule to complete the review prior to the expiry date in
September 2018.
2.5.1.6 Help protect the community from risks and In Progress 25% The Municipal Fire Management Planning Committee is Manager Community 30/06/2018
harm associated with fire, through the meeting regularly with good participation from all agencies to Partnerships
implementation of fire prevention activities effectively identify risks and treatments, and preparations for
the annual fire prevention inspection program is running on
schedule and expected to be delivered more efficiently with
improvements to technology
2.5.1.7 Support the Safe Community Forum to In Progress 25% The strategic plan has been updated and an independent Manager Community 30/06/2018
implement its strategic plan including chair has been appointed. A number of public safety and Partnerships
making improvements to public safety and CCTV projects are currently underway, including the tender
CCTV process for the upgrade of CCTV in the CBD.
2.5.1.8 Increase security surveillance and detection In Progress 25% Current review of security patrols and reporting/actioning of Manager Property 30/06/2018
to critical property infrastructure to help property damage and vandalism to increase at targeted Services
reduce incidents of vandalism locations.
Strategy: 2.5.2 Strengthen community resilience
2.5.2.1 Undertake emergency management In Progress 25% Increased focus on community resilience initiatives linked to Manager Community 30/06/2018
planning that builds community resilience, councils existing emergency management roles, as Partnerships
especially with increasing risk of bushfire, highlighted in the emergency management service review.
flood and heat events. This includes This includes project planning for the Vulnerable to
implementing the emergency management Resilient project (to formally commence late October), and
service review and preparing the Summer support for the Axedale community in organising an Are you
PAGE 163


Strategy: 2.5.2 Strengthen community resilience
Preparedness Guide ready for summer? community day to be held 29 October.
These initiatives are in addition to preparing the summer
preparedness guide and other regular EM preparedness
activities such as relief centre audits and training for City
staff who may be required to take on EM roles in the event of
an emergency. Pre-summer briefing planned for Council in
mid-November
2.5.2.2 Partner with the Community Foundation for Not Started 0% Community Foundation for Central Victoria have requested Manager Community 30/06/2018
Central Victoria to support The Big Give that this partnership be put on hold until early 2018 calendar Partnerships
year due to changes in their Executive Officer and the board
deciding to undertake an organisation review. It is
anticipated that The Big Give will run in the first half of 2018
2.5.2.3 Foster and support volunteerism In Progress 25% Project brief developed for a coordinated volunteering Manager Community 30/06/2018
strategy. The City is also supporting Bendigo Kangan Partnerships
Institute in their work to develop a volunteering portal for the
local health sector
2.5.2.4 Support community priorities to reduce risks In Progress 25% Work commenced on preparation of a Responsible Director Community 30/06/2018
associated with problem gambling across Gambling Policy for Greater Bendigo. Response developed Wellbeing
the municipality to the Bendigo Club application
Strategy: 2.5.3 Maintain the attractiveness and cleanliness of public and commercial areas
2.5.3.1 Provide a timely response to applications for Ongoing Local Law applications continue to be processed in a timely Manager Safe & Healthy 30/06/2018
outdoor dining, street trading and events manner. For the first quarter the City received and Environments
with an effective monitoring program processed the following applications:
- 91 outdoor dining renewals
- 1 new outdoor dining application
- 61 goods for sale renewals
- 1 new goods for sale application
- 315 A-frame sign applications
- 11 new A-Frame sign applications
- 188 general local law permit applications
- 64 open air burning applications
The Local Laws team undertook 3 prosecutions, all
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Strategy: 2.5.3 Maintain the attractiveness and cleanliness of public and commercial areas
successful and issued 10 fines.
2.5.3.2 Continue to work with the community to In Progress 50% Entered into an agreement with office of corrections to Manager Property 30/06/2018
decrease the incidents of graffiti damage to remove all reported graffiti on council property and assets Services
City managed properties and action immediately to reduce ongoing incidents. Continue to work
immediately with police around identifying repeat offenders.
2.5.3.3 Develop an improved cleaning and In Progress 50% Working with other internal units (waste) to ensure all Mall Manager Property 30/06/2018
maintenance standard for the Hargreaves facilities are maintained to an acceptable standard and level Services
Mall and to address any damage in a more responsive time frame
PAGE 165

Goal: 3 Strengthening the economy
Objective 3.1 Support our local businesses and industry to be strong, vibrant and to grow and develop
Strategy: 3.1.1 Supporting local business, including through purchasing programs
3.1.1.1 Develop and implement a range of In Progress 25% Support continues to be provided as part of RSD role Manager Regional 30/06/2018
strategies specifically tailored to meet the Small Business Festival held Sustainable
needs of and support for the business sector Business Help Desk being implemented Development
including the Small Business Festival Council is a participant in the Better Approval project
3.1.1.2 Increase the reach and impact of major In Progress 25% Our fortnightly events calendar is emailed out to business Manager Tourism & 30/06/2018
events for local businesses, especially by members and all premium tourism members, we could Major Events
increasing their awareness of forthcoming improve this communication by publishing all CoGB events
opportunities in the one site
3.1.1.3 Develop a program to recognise and support In Progress 20% Sustainable and inclusive business webpage launched on Manager Regional 30/06/2018
sustainable and ethical businesses and CoGB website. Planning underway for case studies and Sustainable
leaders promotion via social media and other channels. Development
Strategy: 3.1.2 Work with small towns, commercial activity areas and community centres to retain their attraction and economic sustainability
3.1.2.1 Investigate opportunities for situating major In Progress 50% The dispersal of events across the region and municipality is Manager Tourism & 30/06/2018
events in rural towns and communities important and where we can with infrastructure permitting we Major Events
are always willing to place events in the rural towns and
villages.
We place SITP events out into the rural areas like Heathcote
and Redesdale, Elmore annually, have placed cycling events
which only require hard bitumen surface in the rural towns
too
3.1.2.2 Prioritise a response to addressing In Progress 10% The Safe and Healthy Environment Unit is working Municipal Building 30/06/2018
unauthorised/illegal works, with a focus on collaboratively with the Risk and Parks and Open Space Surveyor
rural and isolated areas team to develop a policy to support the City's approach to
unauthorised works in relation to encroachment onto land
owned or managed by the City. This policy will support staff
from the City in dealing with each instance in a systematic
and predictable way. The unit is also currently reviewing the
Compliance Policy, which provides the policy framework for
all compliance action undertaken by the City, and will mark
the beginning of the development of a policy prioritising the
City's response to unauthorised work in rural and isolated
areas
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Strategy: 3.1.2 Work with small towns, commercial activity areas and community centres to retain their attraction and economic sustainability
3.1.2.3 Review parking arrangements in the In Progress 50% Work has begun on the scoping document for the Safe and Coordinator Parking 30/06/2018
Rosalind Park Recreation Reserve precinct Healthy Environments service review, focussing on parking Services
and the Bendigo Hospital precinct in the municipality. While the service review will focus on the
broader issues of timed parking and residential parking, it
will include a review of the provision of parking Rosalind
Parking precinct. A review of parking in the Hospital precinct
has been completed
3.1.2.4 Undertake a pedestrian and traffic Not Started 0% Due to commence in 2018. Manager Engineering 30/06/2018
movements study for Rosalind Park precinct
3.1.2.5 Upgrade the Rosalind Park fence In Progress 40% Specification for this project has been finalised and the work Manager Engineering 30/06/2018
is currently out for quotation.
Strategy: 3.1.3 Implement agreed actions from the Rural Communities Strategy
3.1.3.1 Implement agreed actions from the Rural In Progress 25% Implementation on track including action planning for both Manager Community 30/06/2018
Communities Strategy Rural Communities Committee and Farming Advisory Partnerships
Committee. Progress on developing the State of Rural
Communities Report is still pending availability of Census
data. Engagement of rural communities has been revitalized
and resources increased. Ward tours for all three wards
actions arising from the tours
Strategy: 3.1.4 Work closely with all sectors, including manufacturing, tourism, retail, education, health, creative industries and agriculture to enhance their
success
3.1.4.1 Refresh the Economic Development In Progress 5% Forms part of agreed work program for new Strategy and Manager Regional 30/06/2018
Strategy and ensure it encompasses a wider Growth Directorate - Sustainable
scope and is more inclusive of the range of The establishment of the new Regional Sustainable Development
economic development opportunities in Development Unit (RSD) from 3/7/17 provides the basis for
Greater Bendigo and the region clearly establishing this role and process.
Council Community Plan sets out this as a task for the
2017/2018 year.
Process to prepare EDS review has commenced
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Objective 3.2 Make it easier for people to transition from education to employment
Strategy: 3.2.1 Extend opportunities for stronger links between industry and learning providers
3.2.1.1 Continue to build on the success of the In Progress 10% Arrangements made with La Trobe to implement this in Manager Regional 30/06/2018
Career Horizons program and investigate 2018. La Trobe has secured funding Sustainable
the potential implementation of a City Development
Studio model for linking students with
Councils strategies
3.2.1.2 Understand the unmet tourist industry skills In Progress 25% Our regular industry workshops and stakeholder Manager Tourism & 30/06/2018
needs and support strategies that assist engagement has clearly shown that we have a current Major Events
industries to meet demand critical shortage of chefs and front of house staff in
hospitality sector, we are working with Bendigo Tafe and
William Anglis to design courses and hopefully attract new
trainees in these sectors
Objective 3.3 Ensure Greater Bendigo is a welcoming place for new businesses and industries, and supports creativity and innovation and visitor attraction
Strategy: 3.3.1 Promote a culture of enterprise
3.3.1.1 Develop new collaborative strategies that In Progress 25% Working with Bendigo Manufacturing Group on new Strategy Manager Regional 30/06/2018
strengthen Greater Bendigos manufacturing which will be completed mid-October Sustainable
sector Development
3.3.1.2 Establish a steering committee/partnership In Progress 25% Partnership has been formed and city centre plan in course Manager Regional 30/06/2018
to oversee the implementation of adopted of preparation Sustainable
actions relating to the Bendigo city centre Development
retail sector.
3.3.1.3 Activate public spaces in the Bendigo city In Progress 25% Extensive program in place and ongoing Manager Regional 30/06/2018
centre, including completing a design and Sustainable
development plan for Hargreaves Mall Development
3.3.1.4 Conduct a research project to determine the In Progress 25% An innovation culture will be a principle of the business Manager Business 30/06/2018
feasibility and best approach to establishing improvement framework Transformation
an organisational innovation program
Strategy: 3.3.2 Support collaborative partnerships for tourism growth
3.3.2.1 Increase tourism visitation to the region In Progress 50% The core function of our tourism unit is to work with local Manager Tourism & 30/06/2018
stakeholders for the purpose of increasing visitation t our Major Events
region. Austrade recently released figures indicating that the
Bendigo and Loddon Region is now a $517m annual
industry up quite significantly on the previous year. Our
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Strategy: 3.3.2 Support collaborative partnerships for tourism growth
international visitation has increased by, so to our domestic
overnight and day trip market by.
The Bendigo VIC and Heathcote VIC combined welcomed

116,000 visitors to Bendigo in the last financial year
3.3.2.2 Support the initiative to restore Sun Loong In Progress 75% The CoGB sits on the current Sun Loong 750 committee Manager Tourism & 30/06/2018
and commission a new Chinese dragon Dai which is essentially a fund raising group - to date we have Major Events
Gum Loong raised $650,000 toward a target of $750,000.
CoGB through the services of the communications team has

produced a beautiful prospectus to aid fund raising
3.3.2.3 Implement an updated approach to In Progress 75% We are pleased to report that the 2017 display will be bigger Manager Tourism & 30/06/2018
Christmas decorations across the and bolder than most recent years. We have through Major Events
municipality approved new funding purchased and will be installing new
decorations in Heathcote, Elmore, Eaglehawk, central
Bendigo, all of which will be pleasing for our community to
see.
3.3.2.4 Advocate for funding for improvements at In Progress 25% Advocacy for project forms part of Council state budget and Manager Regional 30/06/2018
the Chinese Precinct election priorities document Sustainable
Development
3.3.2.5 Advocate for funding opportunities at the In Progress 10% Substantial funds already provided - ongoing work in terms Manager Regional 30/06/2018
Great Stupa and support future planning and of planning and development and feasibility study Sustainable
developments that are in accordance with Development
their feasibility study
Strategy: 3.3.3 Expand existing manufacturing and emerging industries
3.3.3.1 Collaborate with industry groups in In Progress 25% Forms part of BMG Strategy Plan - due for completion in Manager Regional 30/06/2018
advocacy for local initiatives and October 2017 Sustainable
developments Development
3.3.3.2 Develop the concept of a Bendigo Regional In Progress 25% $30k grant received from Vic Planning Authority Manager Regional 30/06/2018
Employment and Innovation cluster initiative Identification of Business in cluster area has commenced Sustainable
Development
3.3.3.3 Implement the Strategic Plan for In Progress 15% Investigation into various Airport operating models has Manager Business 30/06/2018
development of the Business Park at commenced including visits to a number of comparable Services
Bendigo Airport and complete other Airports
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Strategy: 3.3.3 Expand existing manufacturing and emerging industries
upgrades that increase the diversity and
commercial viability of Airport operations
3.3.3.4 Advocate for funding for planning of further Not Started 0% Project deferred pending development of a master plan Manager Regional 30/06/2018
developments at the Bendigo Showgrounds Sustainable
as part of a master planning project Development
3.3.3.5 Advocate for funding for the Industry In Progress 25% Forms part of the BMG strategy due to be completed mid- Manager Regional 30/06/2018
Innovation and Collaboration Program to October Sustainable
facilitate an increase in research and Development
development undertaken by local
businesses
Strategy: 3.3.4 Attract and support creative industries
3.3.4.1 Engage widely and prepare an Arts and In Progress 25% Strategy has commenced - internal working group Manager Regional 30/06/2018
Creative Industries Strategy formed - reported to Council - tender for consultants for first Sustainable
stage in progress Development
3.3.4.2 Work with the Bendigo and regional tourism In Progress 50% One of the many enjoyable aspects of working in this sector Manager Tourism & 30/06/2018
industry to grow the tourism offerings is collaborating with industry to develop new experiences. Major Events
From Food Fossickers to our many tracks and trails, unique
offerings from our two wine growing regions, the many
exhibitions in the LAS and major exhibitions at Bendigo Art
Gallery, regular high quality offerings from Bendigo heritage
attractions.
We are constantly looking for "what is next" in the new
product experience in the quest to keep Bendigo and the
region at the forefront of tourism.
3.3.4.3 Constantly explore new local and unique In Progress 50% We have a dedicated resource for industry development and Manager Tourism & 30/06/2018
products that maintain our point of difference along with our BTB works diligently to create new product. Major Events
and create opportunities to attract new / We are on the mission to establish Bendigo's first Bloom
different visitor groups Festival in 2018 featuring our much celebrated tulips and will
almost certainly see Bendigo host its first regional foray of
White Night.
We supported an updated format of Heritage Uncorked this
year; the week-long event was reported as a great success
by wine growers with a noticeable increase in visitors from
Melbourne.
Our Food Fossicker group is always looking to create new
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Strategy: 3.3.4 Attract and support creative industries
experiences
3.3.4.4 Continue the program of supporting and In Progress 25% Currently organising a forum to assist local contractors to Manager Governance 30/06/2018
encouraging local businesses to bid for improve their tender submissions.
Council contracts where appropriate and
relevant
Strategy: 3.3.5 Take advantage of technology for community benefit
3.3.5.1 Continue developing supportive networks In Progress 25% Looking for options to increase social procurement and Manager Governance 30/06/2018
with local social enterprises that build their enhance ability for social enterprises to successfully bid for
capacity to successfully bid for local work local work.
3.3.5.2 Attract and support investment in renewable In Progress 25% Part of the ongoing implementation of the Environment Manager Regional 30/06/2018
technology Strategy. Ongoing work with BSG to establish solar farm Sustainable
facilities. Ongoing work to support development of wind Development
turbine manufacture in the city. Pumped Hydro feasibility
assessment currently being undertaken
3.3.5.3 Investigate the development of a web-based In Progress 5% Feasibility being discussed as part of the retail roundtable Manager Regional 30/06/2018
portal for the Bendigo city centre retail discussions and preparation of a retail action plan. Sustainable
sector using www.shopbendigo.com.au Development
3.3.5.4 Ensure parking efficiency and accessibility In Progress 10% The structure review of the Safe and Healthy Environments Coordinator Parking 30/06/2018
for all visitors by introducing contemporary team is almost completed with the recruitment of the position Services
approaches to parking and conducting coordinator Parking Strategy soon to commence. A key
patrols that promote turn-over and reviewing action for this position is to participate in the drafting of the
the Bendigo CBD Parking Strategy in service review scoping document for the provision of parking
2018-2019 in the municipality. The current coordinator attended the
Parking Australia conference in Sydney, with a focus on
contemporary approaches to parking and what options
would be suitable and cost effective to implement within the
Bendigo municipality.
PAGE 171

Goal: 4 Presentation and managing growth
Objective: 4.1 Plan for a growing population

Strategy: 4.1.1 Complete adopted major projects
4.1.1.1 Complete the Bendigo Stadium major In Progress 79% Main construction is 79% complete. Manager Project 30/06/2018
expansion Management Office
4.1.1.2 Partner with the RSL to ensure completion In Progress 30% Project construction underway and due for completion June Manager Property 30/06/2018
of the Soldiers Memorial Institute upgrade 2018. RSL currently fundraising to secure the $500k Services
contribution and are over 50% complete
4.1.1.3 Complete the Greater Bendigo Indoor In Progress 59% Main construction is 59% complete. Manager Project 30/06/2018
Aquatic and Wellbeing Centre at Kangaroo Management Office
Flat
4.1.1.4 Complete the upgrade and expansion of the Completed 100% Construction of Pavilion completed. Manager Property 30/06/2018
Barrack Reserve Sporting/Community Services
pavilion
Strategy: 4.1.2 Optimise the use of Development Contributions Plan
4.1.2.1 Investigate a Development Contributions In Progress 5% Met with consultant October 25 and expect the costing's for Manager Statutory 30/06/2018
Program for major new residential an audit and a suggested program including a DCP Planning
development areas governance structure by early November (10).
Strategy: 4.1.3 Complete agreed structure and township plans
4.1.3.1 Implement Councils adopted list of structure Ongoing The planning scheme amendment work program is a joint Manager Statutory 30/06/2018
and township plans and Planning Scheme program between Statutory Planning and Strategic Planning. Planning
Amendments
Projects that Statutory Planning has resolved include:
Marong Business Park has been rezoned.
Lansell Street panel report has been received.
Strathfieldsaye urban design framework is progressing.
The White Hills Heritage Study panel report has been
received.
The Council signage amendment has been completed.
The Maiden Gully DCP and the Huntly DCP work is
progressing.
The flood study is to be reported to Council before end of the
year 2017.
Nanga Gnulle HO is to be exhibited
The MSS review program is an extensive and long term
program and is just commencing.
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Strategy: 4.1.3 Complete agreed structure and township plans
The State introduced the BMO mapping and the resourcing
of customer inquiries has been a priority.
Strategy are to resolve the Big Hill landscape study, the

Heritage Strategy, the Housing Strategy and the review of
the LDRZ land before the end of the year 2017.
The majority of the structure planning (e.g. Marong)was

being conducted by Strategy and the structure planning for
other areas will need resourcing and prioritising and a
budget bid for 18/19
4.1.3.2 Initiate a coordinated process to In Progress 5% Draft brief and background has been prepared will go to Manager Regional 30/06/2018
progressively implement a neighbourhood Council in early 2018 Sustainable
revitalisation program for Golden Square Development
4.1.3.3 Implement agreed planning actions from the In Progress 25% Implementation on track including action planning for both Manager Community 30/06/2018
Rural Communities Strategy Rural Communities Committee and Farming Advisory Partnerships
Committee. Progress on developing the State of Rural
Communities Report is still pending availability of Census
data. Engagement of rural communities has been revitalized
and resources increased. Ward tours for all three wards
actions arising from the tours
4.1.3.4 Complete the Lake Eppalock Development In Progress 30% This work is progressing via LEAG working meetings, we are Manager Tourism & 30/06/2018
Plan currently waiting on the result of our EOI to State Govt for Major Events
funding to support a study around the viability of Lake
Eppalock and its capacity as a tourist destination
4.1.3.5 Complete the design for the former Not Started 0% Design works to commence in January 2018. Manager Parks & Open 30/06/2018
Municipal Baths Space
Objective 4.2 Plan to meet future housing needs

Strategy: 4.2.1 Implement agreed actions in the Greater Bendigo Environment Strategy
4.2.1.1 Investigate and develop policy options that In Progress 5% Forms part of the Environment Strategy action plan which Manager Regional 30/06/2018
provide improved native vegetation has been presented to Council Sustainable
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Objective 4.2 Plan to meet future housing needs

Strategy: 4.2.1 Implement agreed actions in the Greater Bendigo Environment Strategy
protection and establishment outcomes for Development
City of Greater Bendigo projects
Strategy: 4.2.2 Protect our bushland areas and the interface between public and private land
4.2.2.1 Ensure the updated Public Space Strategy In Progress 25% Forms part of the Public Space Plan currently under Manager Regional 30/06/2018
addresses the need for protection of the preparation Sustainable
interface areas between public and private Development
land
Strategy: 4.2.3 Advocate for increased access to social and affordable housing
4.2.3.1 Develop a Social and Affordable Housing In Progress 1% Preliminary work undertaken in preparation for joint project Manager Regional 30/06/2018
and Living Strategy and commence with Health and Wellbeing Directorate Sustainable
implementation Development
4.2.3.2 Develop and implement a strategy to assist In Progress 10% Meetings held with DHHS and Director of Housing re Virginia Manager Regional 30/06/2018
the delivery of housing projects for Virginia Hill. Council is represented on St Andrews Church PCG Sustainable
Hill and the St Andrews Church precinct which is being run by the Uniting Church - ongoing Development
operational feasibility is being examined
Strategy: 4.2.4 Encourage more environmentally sustainable housing
4.2.4.1 Consider, trial and recommend ways that In Progress 10% Forms part of implementation of Environment Strategy and Manager Regional 30/06/2018
the planning process can support improved four year action plan Sustainable
environmentally sustainable design Project officer is working on planning permit referrals Development
outcomes
Objective 4.3 Continue to implement strategies that increase the capacity of transport networks to better move people and good and encourages
walking, cycling and the use of public transport
Strategy: 4.3.1 Use fairness of access as a basis for investments in new walking, cycling and transport infrastructure
4.3.1.1 Complete design for the new Heathcote In Progress 20% Concept design finalised and stakeholder consultation in Manager Engineering 30/06/2018
footbridge progress including Cultural Heritage Management
consultation with Taungurung Clans Aboriginal Corporation.
Detailed design to commence post-consultation.
Strategy: 4.3.2 Advocate for improved transport connections
4.3.2.1 Prioritise the strategic and operational In Progress 50% Draft report lists priorities which will be reviewed following Manager Regional 30/06/2018
opportunities and recommendations from consultation Sustainable
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Strategy: 4.3.2 Advocate for improved transport connections
the Greater Bendigo Freight Study Development
4.3.2.2 Undertake road maintenance and Ongoing With the introduction of the 'Konnect' software, maintenance Manager Works 30/06/2018
construction as per adopted priorities and construction is being undertaken or projects highlighted
for future considerations in accordance with adopted
priorities.
Defect backlogs across all categories have reduced

significantly, which is due to a combination of better
identification and reporting with the Konnect App, better and
targeted maintenance practices and in some cases timely
renewals.
Furthermore, a Service Planning Review for both road

maintenance and construction has commenced, which will
review current practices and improvement opportunities.
4.3.2.3 Review the operation of the bus passenger Not Started 0% This work is yet to commence. Manager Engineering 30/06/2018
waiting facility in Hargreaves Mall
Strategy: 4.3.3 Build local knowledge about use of sustainable transport options
4.3.3.1 Support initiatives and local events that In Progress 10% Initial work undertaken in terms of charging points Manager Regional 30/06/2018
promote the uptake of electric vehicles and Sustainable
develop a plan for promoting the availability Development
of electric vehicle charging points within the
urban Bendigo area
4.3.3.2 Expand Bendigo Cycleport as a flexible In Progress 20 Project funds received from New Energy Jobs Fund Manager Regional 30/06/2018
bicycle sharing scheme and support Project officer appointed and program of engagement will Sustainable
initiatives to commence assembly and commence in December quarter 2017 Development
manufacture in Bendigo
Objective 4.4 Keep Greater Bendigo attractive with good quality public facilities and places
Strategy: 4.4.1 Maintain and upgrade essential buildings and infrastructure in a sustainable manner
4.4.1.1 Undertake an internal review of our current Not Started 0% Not started to date. Expect start date to be early 2018 Manager Property 30/06/2018
leases, licences and other forms of Services
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Objective 4.4 Keep Greater Bendigo attractive with good quality public facilities and places
Strategy: 4.4.1 Maintain and upgrade essential buildings and infrastructure in a sustainable manner
agreements to ensure compliance and
standardisation
4.4.1.2 Begin the implementation of the adopted In Progress 5% Draft Strategy is out to the public for comment for 3 weeks Manager Property 30/06/2018
Public Toilet Strategy including replacing the and is expected to be adopted by council early 2018. Services
public toilets at Heathcote Priority works to be planned and budget approved over the
coming years
4.4.1.3 Upgrade the two heritage picnic shelters at In Progress 15% Structural Documentation finalised with associated scope of Manager Property 30/06/2018
Lake Weeroona works underway. Procurement of contractor anticipated Services
November 2017 with works to scheduled early 2018 subject
to pre-booked events
4.4.1.4 Complete stage two of a four-stage project In Progress 20% Detailed Documentation underway and due for completion Manager Property 30/06/2018
to upgrade and preserve the external fabric November 2017 to support Heritage Victoria Permit Services
of the Bendigo Town Hall Application process. Works anticipated to commence early
2018
4.4.1.5 Provide heating and cooling and internal In Progress 30% Documentation nearing completion with Heritage Victoria Manager Property 30/06/2018
upgrade works to the Eaglehawk Town Hall Permit application anticipated November 2017. Procurement Services
of contractor to be undertaken early 2018 with delivery of
works to follow
4.4.1.6 Continue to decant and prepare the former In Progress 25% Decanting and cleaning up of material and non-gas works Manager Property 30/06/2018
Gas Works site for possible future use and items being undertaken with the BHA and other Services
development including site decontamination stakeholders.
Council staff working with EPA and DTF to finalise a site

clean-up plan and scope of works including time frames.
4.4.1.7 Continue to undertake ongoing property In Progress 25% Property inspection have been planned and undertaken as Manager Property 30/06/2018
audit/condition inspections to provide critical per inspection plan with property data updated Services
data for future major works and renewal
programs
Strategy: 4.4.2 Ensure open spaces are accessible and fit for purpose
4.4.2.1 Construct new footpaths and upgrade others In Progress 20% Program of works underway with renewed footpaths Manager Engineering 30/06/2018
according to the agreed program constructed in Strickland Road, East Bendigo; Wattle Street,
Bendigo; and newly constructed footpaths in Leslie/Adam
PAGE 176


Strategy: 4.4.2 Ensure open spaces are accessible and fit for purpose
Streets, Marong; Prouses Road North Bendigo; Ashley
Street, Ironbark; Aspinall Street, Golden Square.
4.4.2.2 Continue to strategically purchase land and In Progress 25% Ongoing a number of properties have been identified for Manager Property 30/06/2018
property and dispose of surplus assets purchase and negations are in place with other properties Services
approved for disposal
Strategy: 4.4.3 Increase urban shade and provide protection for significant and heritage trees through development and implementation of a Greater Bendigo Tree
Strategy
4.4.3.1 Increase urban shade and protect significant In Progress 50% The development and adoption of Council's Urban Tree Manager Parks & Open 30/06/2018
and heritage trees Management Policy will ensure protection of trees including Space
significant and heritage trees. The development of an Urban
Tree Strategy is now underway which will ensure increased
canopy cover throughout the urban areas.
Objective 4.5 Provide and maintain urban and rural infrastructure to support the development and liveability of our community
Strategy: 4.5.1 Develop and adopt best-practice asset management principles
4.5.1.1 Develop and adopt best practice asset In Progress 20% Asset Management Policy updated and approved by Council Manager Financial 30/06/2018
management principles to assist Council by August 2017 council meeting. Strategy
decisions about existing assets
4.5.1.2 Commence the Community Buildings In Progress 20% Community Buildings Review scope and project plan have Coordinator Strategy & 30/06/2018
Service Review, including the development been signed off by EMT. Tasks currently underway include Policy
of a policy to define the Citys service benchmarking of other LGA's work around development of a
standard for investment in community set of principles, defining the key services that use
buildings community buildings and mapping two identified pilot areas
for further investigation
Strategy: 4.5.2 Develop investment guidelines which will assist Council investment in new and existing assets
4.5.2.1 Develop and adopt best practice asset In Progress 15% Additional consultation has been conducted and feedback Manager Financial 30/06/2018
investment principles to assist Council received about the process for decision making on the Strategy
decisions about new assets budget from officers and Councillors.
The revised Capital Investment Guidelines (previously
capital evaluation framework) are being considered by
Councillors as part of the preparation to the 2018/19 budget
process.
PAGE 177

Goal: 5 Environmental sustainability
Objective 5.1 Drawing on the One Planet Living* framework work to connect the health of the natural environment to the health and prosperity of
our community
Strategy: 5.1.1 Implement prioritised actions contained in the Greater Bendigo Environment Strategy 2016-2021
5.1.1.1 Prepare and commence a four-year action In Progress 25% Delivery of the Environment Strategy built into Community Manager Regional 30/06/2018
plan to implement the Greater Bendigo Plan Sustainable
Environment Strategy Council has signed off on a first draft Action Plan Development
5.1.1.2 Support regional solar projects, including In Progress 5% Initial meetings held with BSG Manager Regional 30/06/2018
conducting a feasibility study for a regional mapping undertaken Sustainable
scale solar facility Feasibility studies commenced Development
5.1.1.3 Continue to develop a feasibility assessment In Progress 25% Feasibility study underway - Due in January 2018 Manager Regional 30/06/2018
of a sub-surface pumped hydro energy Sustainable
storage system Development
5.1.1.4 Construct connecting cycle/pedestrian paths In Progress 40% Designs completed for Milewa Drive, Ascot and Grace Manager Engineering 30/06/2018
in new subdivisions in White Hills and Ascot Street, White Hills paths with community consultation
and on-street cycle paths in Eaglehawk, underway. Design 75% completed for on-road bike lanes for
Jackass Flat and Golden Square Averys Road, Eaglehawk; Symonds Street, Golden Square;
and Upper California Gully Road. Construction due mid-
2018.
5.1.1.5 Complete the concept plan for stage one of In Progress 80% Community consultation complete. Report to Council late Healthy Lifestyles Officer 30/06/2018
the Ironbark Gully Trail and Linear Reserve 2017 or early 2018 for endorsement. Strategy & Policy
5.1.1.6 Work with Coliban Water, key partners and In Progress 25% Working with Coliban - included as a priority project in Plan Manager Regional 30/06/2018
the community to continue to plan for Greater Bendigo Sustainable
Greater Bendigos long term water security Development
5.1.1.7 Further plan and develop the Bendigo In Progress 10% Ongoing discussions with DELWP Manager Regional 30/06/2018
Creek Project Sustainable
Included within Plan Greater Bendigo and election priorities Development
document
5.1.1.8 Install updated drainage infrastructure In Progress 45% Program of works underway. Major Drainage projects at Manager Engineering 30/06/2018
according to the agreed program of priorities Mundy Street, Kennington and Lily Street, Golden Square
close to completion.
5.1.1.9 Continue monitoring water quality in In Progress 50% In addition to monitoring for blue-green algae, The City Manager Engineering 30/06/2018
Bendigos urban lakes and develop projects continues to monitor four urban lakes for water quality
that respond to the findings to improve water indicators; Kennington Reservoir, Lake Tom Thumb,
quality Gateway Park and Strathdale Park. In 2016/17 the City
installed a solar powered Envirosonic unit to control algal
blooms in the Kennington Reservoir. While this has minimal
PAGE 178

Objective 5.1 Drawing on the One Planet Living* framework work to connect the health of the natural environment to the health and prosperity of
our community
Strategy: 5.1.1 Implement prioritised actions contained in the Greater Bendigo Environment Strategy 2016-2021
direct benefit for water quality it is hoped that the
suppression of the BGA will reduce the incidence of alerts
and allow greater recreational use of the reservoir in the
future.
5.1.1.10 Implement the Bendigo Urban Flood Study In Progress 40% Planning Scheme amendment based on the Bendigo Urban Manager Engineering 30/06/2018
and complete the Epsom Ascot Huntly Flood Flood Study is due for re-consideration by Council in
Mitigation project and seek funding for its November 2017. Epsom Ascot Huntly Structural Flood
implementation Mitigation Study Advisory Group has worked to shortlist
mitigations options with intent to take shortlisted options to
community consultation. Concerns from community groups
being worked through with detailed workshops.
Strategy: 5.1.2 Implement findings of the City of Greater Bendigo 2017 Waste Review
5.1.2.1 Continue to implement the Waste and In Progress 15% Further work continues to take place regarding diversion Manager Waste Services 30/06/2018
Resource Management Strategy, including processes, the relocation of the organics would assist this
Eaglehawk Landfill Rehabilitation and process but a new location is yet to be sourced that meets
increasing waste diversion from City of EPA requirements.
Greater Bendigo work sites
Eaglehawk Rehabilitation Plan is almost completed and the
final draft should be received by February.
5.1.2.2 Thoroughly investigate waste-to-energy In Progress 10% The external waste review will provide options to investigate Manager Waste Services 30/06/2018
options further with waste to energy.
Discussions between Waste Services and Sustainable
Development continue to take place.
5.1.2.3 Implement the key adopted actions of the In Progress 25% The Domestic Wastewater Management Strategy has a total Coordinator Public 30/06/2018
City of Greater Bendigo Domestic of 29 actions to be completed within a variety of time frames Health & Environment
Wastewater Management Strategy over many years. A total of 12 actions have been completed
within the required time frames so far. Due to staff backfilling
issues, staff were allocated to this project in April of the
financial year. The mapping and monitoring program was
commenced across a number of priority area. Some 230 site
visits were undertaken. Pathways systems development has
been completed this year.
PAGE 179


Strategy: 5.1.2 Implement findings of the City of Greater Bendigo 2017 Waste Review
A further 8 actions have been commenced. This include:
determination of referral authorities (A16); minimum
standards for LCA (A17); review regional specific
wastewater disposal system design requirements (A2);
investigate innovation wastewater solutions for small
townships (A5); commence onsite wastewater system
mapping and monitoring program (A24); web page review
(A25) and minimum standards for service reports (A18).
Works have commenced on the delivery of the service report
database (A27) however due to the outsourcing of technical
assistance proposed time frame will not be met. It is
anticipated that these actions will be completed within this
reporting year. The mapping and monitoring program (A27)
will be conducted beginning April 2017 after a successful
audit trial of the Lakeside Boulevard priority area. It is also
expected that the Goornong Scoping Project (A7) will also
be conducted during 2017.
A further 2 actions have commenced and are current and
ongoing. These actions are: support to Heathcote sewer
extension project (A11) and undertake specialised testing of
receiving environments (A26).
The remaining 7 actions yet to commence are also on track
to be completed within the proposed time frames, which vary
from 2 to 5 years
Objective: 5.2 Demonstrate leadership in sustaining the rich biological diversity of the Greater Bendigo region that sustains healthy ecosystems
Strategy: 5.2.1 Work in partnership with other Councils towards achieving zero emissions
5.2.1.1 Show leadership and partner with the In Progress 10% Incorporated within implementation of Environment Strategy Manager Regional 30/06/2018
community to develop a transition pathway and 4 year action plan Sustainable
to 100% renewable energy Development
5.2.1.2 Increase the number of businesses that take In Progress 10% Ongoing role in promoting this scheme Manager Regional 30/06/2018
up environmental upgrade agreements Sustainable
Development
5.2.1.3 Rehabilitate the previous landfill site at In Progress 15% The final monitoring bores have been installed on the site. Manager Waste Services 30/06/2018
PAGE 180

Objective: 5.2 Demonstrate leadership in sustaining the rich biological diversity of the Greater Bendigo region that sustains healthy ecosystems
Strategy: 5.2.1 Work in partnership with other Councils towards achieving zero emissions
White Hills Surveying has taken place and a final design for
rehabilitation, while continuing to look at future uses, should
be underway by December 2017
5.2.1.4 Rehabilitate the previous landfill site at In Progress 30% Consultant and Environmental Auditor engaged. Further Manager Engineering 30/06/2018
Wolstencroft Reserve testing underway onsite. Community information session
held in early October 2017 with further community
engagement on future site planning to commence in
November 2017.
5.2.1.5 Review and refresh environmental education In Progress 10% Ongoing role to ensure material is relevant Manager Regional 30/06/2018
materials to ensure that they are relevant Sustainable
and useable Development
5.2.1.6 Encourage and support participation in the In Progress 5% Ongoing role for Council to support Manager Regional 30/06/2018
Resource Smart Schools Program Sustainable
Development
Strategy: 5.2.2 Achieve healthy living spaces that maintain and increase biological diversity through the Greater Bendigo Public Space Plan
5.2.2.1 Complete the Greater Bendigo Public Space In Progress 75% The draft Public Space Plan will go through internal and Manager Regional 30/06/2018
Plan limited external review process before proceeding to Council Sustainable
in January 2018 and then to community display in Development
February/March. The Plan is on target for completion by
May 2018.
PAGE 181
Lead and Govern For All - Reports Ordinary Meeting - 13 December 2017
Objective 6.1 Celebrate our unique heritage

Strategy: 6.1.1 Value local area streetscapes and character to increase pride, appearance and function
6.1.1.1 Ensure that streetscapes form a key In Progress 25% This work is being incorporated into the Public Space Manager Regional 30/06/2018
element of the Greater Bendigo Public Strategy Sustainable
Space Plan Development
6.1.1.2 Develop an action plan in partnership In Progress 20% The issue was discussed at the Retail Roundtable 2 Manager Regional 30/06/2018
with landowners to upgrade building and will be included in the draft Retail Action Plan that Sustainable
facades in the Bendigo city centre, is currently under development. Development
particularly in Pall Mall
Strategy: 6.1.2 Stimulate re-purposing of heritage buildings for contemporary use and increased sustainability
6.1.2.1 Undertake relevant heritage studies in In Progress 25% The City Centre Heritage Study is nearing completion Heritage Planner 30/06/2018
accordance with Councils adopted and once that it is finalised it will go to Council for
Built Heritage Strategy consultation, adoption and authorisation to become a
Planning Scheme Amendment. Project preparation for
the next heritage study will commence shortly, in
accordance with the Built Heritage Study (currently in
draft).
6.1.2.2 Contribute to the ongoing development In Progress 25% Continue to provide funding for BHA to plan and Manager Property 30/06/2018
and sustainability of Bendigo Heritage undertake renewal and upgrade works to building Services
Attractions facilities to ensure fit for purpose
6.1.2.3 Undertake renewal works to the In Progress 40% Scope of works completed. Heritage Permit Manager Property 30/06/2018
exterior of the Citys Heathcote offices Application in progress with procurement of works to Services
to bring it back to its original condition follow
Strategy: 6.1.3 Promote connection with and celebration of our unique places, people, organisations and memories
6.1.3.1 Work with a regional partnership to In Progress 50% In conjunction with the BTB, RTB and VGTE we are Manager Tourism & 30/06/2018
implement the adopted Tourism actively working through the many recommendations Major Events
Destination Management Plan of the Bendigo Region DMP. We are fortunate to have
a very positive and proactive BTB that is very hands
on with the DMP, working well with the tourism unit
who deliver the operational elements of the actions in
the DMP
6.1.3.2 Contribute to the development of a In Progress 30% Following extensive consultation with the region a new Manager Tourism & 30/06/2018
collaborative, integrated tourism site is currently in the development, Y frames are Major Events
website for the region currently out for feedback and comment with the final
site scheduled for launch in or around March/April
2018
Strategy: 6.1.4 Recognise and celebrate our significant national and international heritage
6.1.4.1 Adopt and commence implementation In Progress 10% Series of meetings held to progress this Manager Regional 30/06/2018
PAGE 182
Strategy: 6.1.4 Recognise and celebrate our significant national and international heritage
of the Built Heritage Strategy and Working with City of Ballarat to lead a collaborative Sustainable
support the bid for World Heritage program with the 13 municipalities in the central Development
listing for the Central Victorian Victorian goldfields region
Goldfields Region
6.1.4.2 Investigate options for developing an In Progress 10% In conjunction with Danielle Orr and her team we are Manager Tourism & 30/06/2018
Open House Bendigo initiative to unveil beginning to explore a model with Open Melbourne to Major Events
hidden parts of heritage sites to the see if we can make this concept work in Bendigo. We
public know we have the product in our historical building's ,
we just need to get the operating model right
6.1.4.3 Advocate for funding for further In Progress 25% Incorporated in part of Plan Greater Bendigo and Manager Regional 30/06/2018
development of Bendigo Heritage Council's state election priorities. Sustainable
Attractions in accordance with their Development
agreed feasibility study
Objective 6.2 Build pride in and shared responsibility for our public spaces
Strategy: 6.2.1 Protect our bushland areas and the interface between public and private land
6.2.1.1 Research approaches to reducing the In Progress 25% Productive discussions have been held with the Manager Safe & 30/06/2018
population of former domestic animals RSCPC CEO and Operations Manager to work Healthy Environments
that are now feral collaboratively on a program of feral cat management
and cat de-sexing program. A fast track de-sexing
program is to be implemented in our neighbouring
shire, and the RSPCA is keen to collaborate with the
City to include t's residents where possible. Zoo's
Victoria are also completing work on cat de-sexing
and the City will follow this work. It was noted that we
are entering Kitten season and numbers are expected
to increase, with an increase in feral cats taken to the
RSPCA shelter.
Strategy: 6.2.2 Protect and advocate to retain the landscapes we value
6.2.2.1 No Council identified action in this year
Objective 6.3 Offer and support a diverse range of events that attract and connect people
Strategy: 6.3.1 Ensure that there are accessible and affordable events guided by the Arts and Creative Industries Strategy
6.3.1.1 Provide a broad range of major events In Progress 25% Events delivered include Bendigo Writers Festival, Manager Capital 30/06/2018
and programs through Capital Venues Victoria Welsh Choir & Silvie Paladino, Carl Barron, Venues & Events
and Events to meet diverse FS Erth's Prehistoric Aquarium, Isaiah: The
preferences and budgets Homecoming Tour, Sydney Dance Company - Frame
PAGE 183
Objective 6.3 Offer and support a diverse range of events that attract and connect people
Strategy: 6.3.1 Ensure that there are accessible and affordable events guided by the Arts and Creative Industries Strategy
of Mind, Aust. Aerobic Gymnastics Championships
and Bendigo International Festival of Exploratory
Music.
6.3.1.2 Present a series of Family Fun Days In Progress 25% Program being delivered as planned Director Health & 30/06/2018
Wellbeing
Strategy: 6.3.2 Build on the success of attractions and profile of the Bendigo Art Gallery
6.3.2.1 Attract state, national and international In Progress 25% The Costume Designer: Edith Head & Hollywood Director Bendigo Art 30/06/2018
exhibitions and artistic experiences exhibition opened on 29 September and runs until 21 Gallery
January 2018. The Costume Designer brings together
more than seventy costumes designed by Head from
the 1930s to the 1960s and taken from the archives of
Paramount as well as from the Collection of Motion
Picture Costume Design and other private collections.
Strategy: 6.3.3 Grow and nurture our contemporary music sector
6.3.3.1 Work with music industry In Progress 75% We support many music related events Manager Tourism & 30/06/2018
representatives to enable successful annually - Groovin the Moo and Blues and Roots Major Events
events and their ongoing viability, Festival to name a couple. The CoGB would be the
including the Blues and Roots Festival largest financial backer of the Blues and Roots Festival
through a sum in the order of $35,000 plus various
items of in kind support. This is a growing festival that
has the potential to become a Port Fairy size event
which is really exciting.
Strategy: 6.3.4 Attract state, national and internationally recognised arts and cultural experiences in public spaces and buildings
6.3.4.1 Present national events such as the In Progress 65% The Queens Baton arrives in Bendigo February 14 Manager Tourism & 30/06/2018
Queens Baton Relay and widely 2018 as part of its international journey to open the Major Events
promote to ensure success Commonwealth Games in Brisbane in 2018. All
logistical planning including: event management plan,
temporary road closures, civic event, security, risk
assessment, communications and marketing have
been completed, submitted and endorsed by the
organisers. We have met all our contractual
commitments to date for this event.
6.3.4.2 Continue to explore opportunities to In Progress 50% Our international suite of events has grown in the past Manager Tourism & 30/06/2018
host international sporting events that five years to include World Series Snooker, Major Events
will activate local world-class facilities International Table tennis, Olympic qualifying table
such as Bendigo Stadium tennis, Hockey Test matches, International level
netball and basketball, all of which with the exception
of hockey were played at Bendigo Stadium
PAGE 184
Strategy: 6.3.4 Attract state, national and internationally recognised arts and cultural experiences in public spaces and buildings
6.3.4.3 Increase the branding of Bendigo as In Progress 50% The arts and cultural sector being our lead brand Manager Tourism & 30/06/2018
an arts and cultural destination through offering, we have contributed to the marketing of many Major Events
promoting key events and experiences events in this sector including Matichevski exhibition at
Bendigo Art Gallery and currently have the Edith Head
Exhibition through to January 2018. Many local
businesses have partnered with the tourism unit to
create their own unique experiences around the Edith
Head Exhibition, including special menu items in
restaurants, after five cocktails , high tea experiences
to name a few. These unique creations help improve
visitor experience and enhance the appeal of events
6.3.4.4 Complete a feasibility study for an In Progress 10% A Working Group between City Officers and Director Strategy & 30/06/2018
Outdoor Performing Arts Space Community representatives to oversee the feasibility Growth
study for the Outdoor Performing Arts Space has been
established and has commenced meeting.
Strategy: 6.3.5 Support and nurture fair and sustainable access to public spaces and facilities for local community-based arts and cultural
organisations
Strategy: 6.3.6 Encourage community arts and enterprise
Strategy: 6.3.7 Implement the Bendigo Regional Tourism Destination Management Plan
6.3.7.1 Implement agreed actions from the In Progress 50% This is a work in progress in conjunction with the BTB. Manager Tourism & 30/06/2018
Bendigo Regional Tourism Destination Many items have been completed. e.g. vine planting's Major Events
Management Plan at Heathcote, works carried out on the O'Keefe rail
trail, improved digital content for both wine growing
regions, supported Bendigo and Heathcote wine
growers with a new event in Melbourne which lifted
the profile of the region significantly
Objective 6.4 Embrace diversity
Strategy: 6.4.1 Implement the Cultural Diversity and Inclusion Plan to promote and support social cohesion
6.4.1.1 In partnership with stakeholders In Progress 25% Implementation on track with ownership by more than Manager Community 30/06/2018
complete the annual actions of the 18 partnering organisations. Diversity and inclusion Partnerships
Cultural Diversity and Inclusion Plan, training for local organisations and City staff has been
including an integrated calendar of very well attended and received. Reporting on
events and social inclusion marketing progress by partners and the City has been delayed
for workplaces slightly due to resource limitation
6.4.1.2 Expand our range of celebrations of In Progress 50% We support the Be. Bendigo multi-cultural event on Manager Tourism & 30/06/2018
cultural diversity in public spaces AFL Grand Final Eve and have helped that event Major Events
PAGE 185
Objective 6.4 Embrace diversity

Strategy: 6.4.1 Implement the Cultural Diversity and Inclusion Plan to promote and support social cohesion
grow, in conjunction with LCMS support their annual
multi-cultural event, make inclusions on the SITP
programme that encourage multi culturalism, and are
actively working with VV to stage a host of events in
2018 for the Regional Centre for Cultures
Strategy: 6.4.2 Acknowledge publicly significant dates on our calendar that reflect and promote diversity
Objective 6.5 Advance reconciliation
Strategy: 6.5.1 Strengthen the relationship between Council and Indigenous Communities
6.5.1.1 Continue to encourage Indigenous In Progress 25% We have commenced the Indigenous Procurement Manager Governance 30/06/2018
groups and enterprises to tender for Strategy using the Federal Government and
Council contracts through engagement Melbourne City Council documentation as a basis for
with relevant groups and review of creation of our own strategy. Multiple meetings have
contract documentation where needed been held with the local indigenous community
discussing increased involvement in tendering and
feedback on how to improve the tender process. This
feedback and consultation has resulted in a higher
standard of tender and we have awarded our first
contract to the Dja Dja Wurrung.
6.5.1.2 Incorporate Indigenous knowledge into In Progress 5% Part of the Environment Strategy and four year action Manager Regional 30/06/2018
native vegetation management plan adopted by Council Sustainable
Development
Strategy: 6.5.2 Implement the adopted Reconciliation Action Plan
6.5.2.1 Explore opportunities that enable wider In Progress 25% Important that we consult the traditional owners of the Manager Tourism & 30/06/2018
understanding of our Indigenous land to gain insights into how we can be agents for Major Events
Australian culture expanding general awareness of Indigenous
Australian culture. We have good opportunity via out
SITP programme and the BEF to reach thousands of
people with key messaging for this sector.
PAGE 186
7.4 FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT REPORT AS AT 30 SEPTEMBER 2017
Author Nathan Morsillo, Manager Financial Strategy

Director
Summary/Purpose
To provide Council with an analysis of the financial position of the City of Greater
Bendigo (CoGB) for the September quarter of the 2017/18 financial year.
RECOMMENDATION
That the Greater Bendigo City Council receive the Statement comparing Budgeted and
Actual Revenues and Expenses to 30 September 2017, in accordance with the
requirements of the Local Government Act.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Policy Context

Objective 1.3 Be innovative and financially responsible
Objective 1.4 Be accountable and efficient in its use of the communitys
money
In accordance with Section 138 of the Local Government Act 1989:
At least every 3 months, the Chief Executive Officer must ensure that a statement
comparing the budgeted revenue and expenditure for the financial year with the
actual revenue and expenditure to date is presented to the Council at a Council
meeting which is open to the public.
A review of the 30 September 2017 financials was undertaken by the Finance Committee
on 13 November 2017.
PAGE 187
Report
This report provides an update on the financial performance in comparison to the

adopted budget for the 2017/18 financial year.
1. Actual Financial Performance (as at 30 September 2017)
The Citys operating result for the 2017/18 financial year is $2,040,000 favourable to
budget.
Operating Result - YTD Actual vs YTD Budget

Operating Result is a measure for accounting for an organisation's profit or loss for a
given period. An Operating Result recognises all revenue and operating expenditure; it
includes non-cash expenditure such as depreciation and non-cash revenue of donated
assets.
YTD Budget YTD Actual Variance

30/09/2017 30/09/2017
Surplus/(Deficit) Surplus/(Deficit)
$84,804,000 $86,844,000 $2,040,000 favourable
Income Statement for the period 01/07/2017 30/09/2017 is presented below:
PAGE 188
Major variances that contribute to the result include:

Area Fav / Unfav Main Contributing Factors $
User Fees Favourable Higher box office sales due to a higher 854,000
and Charges utilisation of The Capital & Ulumbarra
Theatres than budgeted and above
budgeted utilisation of the Eaglehawk
Landfill.
Cash Unfavourable The timing of contributions for Capital (260,000)

Contributions projects which will be received later in
the year.
PAGE 189
Area Fav / Unfav Main Contributing Factors $

Capital Favourable Receiving Bendigo Tennis Pavilion 492,000
Government funds of $418K this year, budgeted in
Grants 2016/17 and funds received for Huntly
Kindergarten, $83K of which was
unbudgeted.
Interest on Favourable Holding higher levels of cash than 137,000
Investments previously budgeted.
Employee Favourable Temporary savings reflected in the 1,337,000
Benefits quarterly results due to existing
positions being unfilled during
July and August.
Plant and Favourable Lag in invoice processing during the 196,000
Equipment, quarter.
Operating
Expenses
Conclusion
The Finance Committee has reviewed the Statement comparing Budgeted and Actual
Revenues and Expenses to 30 September 2017.
PAGE 190
7.5 APPOINTMENT OF CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Author and Kerryn Ellis, Director Corporate Performance

Responsible
Director
Purpose
This report recommends the appointment of Mr Craig Niemann as the Citys Chief
Executive Officer.
Summary
At the Council meeting on Wednesday 16 August 2017, Council resolved to advertise the
position of Chief Executive Officer. Following completion of a comprehensive recruitment
process, this report recommends the appointment of Mr Craig Niemann to the position of
Chief Executive Officer of the City of Greater Bendigo.
RECOMMENDATION
That Council appoint Mr Craig Niemann to the position of Chief Executive Officer with the
Greater Bendigo City Council for a five year term commencing on the date of signing and
sealing the Employment Contract.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Policy Context

Goal 1 Lead and Govern for all
Effective community engagement will guide well informed,

allocations, which are transparent and accountable
PAGE 191
City of Greater Bendigo Recruitment Policy 2016
The City of Greater Bendigo (CoGB) is an equal opportunity employer committed to

employing the most suitable person for each role. This policy provides a framework for
consistent, fair and equitable recruitment and selection of applicants for all positions in
accordance with section 94, 95 and 96 and the employment principles of the Local
Government Act (1989).
The current CEO's contract is due to expire in December 2017. Mr Craig Niemann
commenced as CEO of the City of Greater Bendigo in December 2007 on a 5-year
contract and he had a further contract of 5 years in 2012.
The maximum period of a contract for the CEO, according to the Local Government Act,
is a 5-year term.
The City of Greater Bendigo appointed Davidson Executive Recruitment to support

Council to undertake the recruitment process for a CEO of the organisation. Following a
search process throughout Australia and overseas, a strong field of applicants was
attracted. Councillors concluded the interview process on 29 November 2017. Following
due diligence and referee checks of preferred applicants, Councillors were of the view
that Mr Craig Niemann was the outstanding applicant, and is being appointed on merit.
Previous Council Decision(s) Date(s): 16 August 2017
Report
The Mayor and Councillors have engaged in a number of discussions to determine the
attributes of the ideal CEO for the City of Greater Bendigo, and to oversee the
recruitment process. The Mayor has also kept staff informed throughout the process,
and has consulted with relevant human resources and governance staff where required.
The Mayor has informed the community of Councils decisions throughout the process as
appropriate. The Mayor and Councillors have also been supported throughout the
recruitment process by Clare McCartin and Jarrod McLauchlan of Davidson Executive.
The level of remuneration as part of the employment contract is in line with the 2017/18
budget.
PAGE 192
Attachments
Nil
PAGE 193
8. URGENT BUSINESS
Nil.
9. NOTICES OF MOTION
Nil.
10. COUNCILLORS' REPORTS
11. MAYOR'S REPORT
12. CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER'S REPORT
13. CONFIDENTIAL (SECTION 89) REPORTS
13.1 Confidential Report in accordance with Section 89(2)(a) and (d) of the Local
Government Act relating to a personnel and contractual matter
RECOMMENDATION
That Council close the meeting to members of the public pursuant to Section 89(2)(a)
and (d) of the Local Government Act 1989 to consider a report relating to a personnel
and contractual matter.
PAGE 194

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Ordinary Agenda 13 December 2017

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AGENDA

Ordinary Meeting of Council

6.00pm Wednesday 13 December 2017

*** Broadcast live on Phoenix FM 106.7 ***

Copies of the City of Greater Bendigo Councils Agendas & Minutes

Greater Bendigo - creating the world's most liveable community.

Presentation and Managing Growth

WEDNESDAY 13 DECEMBER 2017

ITEM PRECIS PAGE

SUSPENSION OF STANDING ORDERS 5

PUBLIC QUESTION TIME 5

RESUMPTION OF STANDING ORDERS 6

DECLARATIONS OF CONFLICT OF INTEREST 7

1. PETITIONS AND JOINT LETTERS 10

1.1 PETITION: REQUEST FOR SCHOOL CROSSING 10

2. PRESENTATION AND MANAGING GROWTH 12

2.1 APPLICATION FOR A DEVELOPMENT PLAN AND 12

2.2 PLANNING SCHEME AMENDMENT C236 - APPLY THE 38

2.3 46-50 & 54-56 HIGH STREET, 65 SHORT STREET AND 80 45

2.4 1 AVERYS ROAD, EAGLEHAWK 3556 - BUILDINGS AND 70

2.5 330 AND 338 OLYMPIC PARADE, MAIDEN GULLY 3551 - 2 84

3.1 YOUTH STRATEGY 91

3.2 SUMMER PREPAREDNESS INTEGRATED EMERGENCY 99

3.3 RENAMING OF BENDIGO AQUATIC CENTRE 104

4. STRENGTHENING THE ECONOMY 109

5. ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY 110

5.1 GREATER BENDIGO ENVIRONMENT STRATEGY ACTION 110

6. EMBRACING OUR CULTURE AND HERITAGE 117

6.1 GASWORKS SITE CONTAMINATION AND FUTURE USE 117

7. LEAD AND GOVERN FOR ALL 130

7.1 RECORD OF ASSEMBLIES 130

7.2 CONTRACTS AWARDED UNDER DELEGATION 135

7.3 QUARTERLY REPORT - COMMUNITY PLAN 137

7.4 FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT REPORT AS AT 30 187

7.5 APPOINTMENT OF CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER 191

8. URGENT BUSINESS 194

9. NOTICES OF MOTION 194

10. COUNCILLORS' REPORTS 194

11. MAYOR'S REPORT 194

12. CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER'S REPORT 194

13. CONFIDENTIAL (SECTION 89) REPORTS 194

13.1 Confidential Report in accordance with Section 89(2)(a) 194

SUSPENSION OF STANDING ORDERS

PUBLIC QUESTION TIME

Public Question Time Purpose

Public Question Time Where, When And Who

Residents are encouraged to lodge questions in advance so that a more complete

RESUMPTION OF STANDING ORDERS

That Standing Orders be resumed.

DECLARATIONS OF CONFLICT OF INTEREST

(a) direct financial interest

Councillors are also encouraged to declare circumstances where there may be a

Election of Mayor for 2017/2018

1. PETITIONS AND JOINT LETTERS

1.1 PETITION: REQUEST FOR SCHOOL CROSSING SUPERVISOR FOR

"Epsom Primary School is campaigning to re-allocate a 'Lolly Pop' person to the

2. PRESENTATION AND MANAGING GROWTH

2.1 APPLICATION FOR A DEVELOPMENT PLAN AND PLANNING

Author Chris Duckett, Planning Coordinator

Responsible Bernie O Sullivan, Director Strategy & Growth

Application details: Development plan and planning application for subdivision,

No objections were withdrawn and no changes were made to

The proposed development plan and subdivision is generally

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