Satisfaction score below average – Golden Plains Shire council meeting briefs

GOLDEN Plains Shire’s satisfaction survey result has declined since 2024, with a score of 41 compared to 42 last year.

This is below the state average of 53 and the average for large rural Local Government areas of 50.

The results of the community satisfaction survey, which is conducted annually by JWS Research, were noted by councillors at Tuesday’s meeting.

The score of 41 marks the Shire’s third consecutive decline in overall performance and sealed local roads and unsealed roads were the municipalities poorest performing areas, although there was improvement since last year’s survey.

The service areas of lobbying and consultations and engagement declined since last year’s survey, with scores of 42 and 39 respectively.

“This is really important feedback for us as a councillor group,” Cr Gavin Gamble said.

“I apologise to the community and staff especially, who I think are not the issue at all and are doing a really good job.

“We have to own it and do better.”

The survey was conducted via telephone with 400 residents across four quarters of the year and Cr Helena Kirby said it would be good to have feedback from more community members.

“I just think it’s a shame that we don’t get a bigger picture of more residents,” she said.

 

Council plan supported

Golden Plains Shire’s Council Plan from 2025 to 2029 was adopted unanimously.

The document incorporates the municipal health and wellbeing plan and contains key deliverables for council.

The plan was developed following the refresh process of the community vision 2040, community engagement, councillors workshops and the gathering of internal priorities.

The draft plan was exhibited in May, and 32 written submissions were received.

A report on the feedback process is expected to be available before the end of June.

Cr Gamble said that although he supports the plan, it could be more ambitious regarding climate change.

“I welcome the initiatives that have been committed to, but I think we can and have to do better,” he said.

 

Strategy to guide future growth

The Growing Places Strategy was adopted by councillors and approval will now be sought by the Minister of Planning to prepare, authorise and exhibit a planning scheme amendment.

The strategy includes five locations within the Shire that are suitable for housing growth.

“It’s important to do this kind of long-term planning so that growth is directed to appropriate areas,” Cr Emma Robbins said.

Continued growth is supported in Bannockburn as well as additional growth in Meredith, Lethbridge and Teesdale.

Cambrian Hill and Stonehaven are named as suitable options for future growth when infrastructure is available.

It is hoped growth will benefit all areas of the Shire by expanding the rates base.

 

Planning scheme amendment supported

Planning scheme amendment C105gpla was adopted following an independent panel report.

The report recommended to rezone five, 20, 25 and 30 Ormond Street, Bannockburn from farming zone to general residential zone one.

“We’re running out of land for more housing and this amendment covers all the issues around the area,” Cr Des Phelan said.

“It has been very well resourced and well put together.”

 

Road safety update

An update was provided following the notice of motion at April’s council meeting to improve road safety in the Shire for vulnerable users.

Council officers have commenced a road safety audit of existing road safety and pedestrian signage and identified signage upgrades estimated to cost $100,000.

Phased signage improvements over a three-year period is proposed.

Discussions have also been held with a road safety consultant regarding the process to prepare a road safety strategy which is estimated to cost $50,000.

Updating the Road Strategy 2010 has begun and a letter was sent to the Minister for Roads about road safety in Teesdale.

The Department of Transport and Planning has approved the extension of the 40 kilometres per hour zone and electronic flashing signs.

Reviews of a permanent 40 kilometres per hour zone, pedestrian options, a 60 kilometres per hour extension, an audit of bus stops and an upgrade of the school car park are pending.

Council officers have met with the department to discuss the crossing in Teesdale and TagEnergy and Golden Plains Shire are committed to contribute $150,000 towards the project.

 

Cr Cook welcomed

Cr Dom Cook has joined Golden Plains Shire council following the resignation of Brett Cunningham.

“I look forward to working with everyone to get some positive outcomes for the Shire,” Cr Cook said.

 

Early years plan endorsed

Golden Plains Shire’s early years and children’s plan 2025 to 2029 has been endorsed by councillors.

The plan guides the municipality’s strategic direction in supporting the wellbeing, development and rights of children and families for the next four years.

No public submissions were received during the exhibition period.

 

Rec centre tender awarded

Management of the Bannockburn Recreation Centre has been awarded to the YMCA Geelong for more than $188,000 across a three-year term.

Two three-year extensions are available at the Shire’s discretion.