Shire rides out COVID impacts in 2021/22

THE Surf Coast Shire has “maintained a healthy financial position” despite the considerable and ongoing affects of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to its annual report for the past financial year.

Cash and investments, revenue and the balance of the accumulated unallocated cash reserve are up compared with last year, while borrowings are down.

The shire recorded a net surplus in 2021/22 of $4.7 million, which the council says will be important in the future as the long-term financial plan predicts deficits from 2024/25 for several years before moving back into surplus.

Concillors endorsed the 2021/22 Annual Report at their October 25 meeting, with the document outlining their performance for the year against its four-year plan and annual budget.

Shire mayor Libby Stapleton said the report reflected the shire’s many achievements during the past 12 months, along with the challenges ahead.

“The 2021-22 period saw the delivery of some key community projects including Lorne’s Stribling Reserve Pavilion, Winchelsea’s refurbished Shire Hall, the Deans Marsh Festival Stand and the Jan Juc Yellow Gums Performance Space, just to name a few.

“Concept plans for the Surf Coast Cultural Centre and Surf Coast Aquatic and Health Centre were finalised, and advocacy campaigns seeking funding for both were initiated and continue to gain momentum.”

The Annual Report also highlights the shire’s commitment to its reconciliation journey through dedicated events and by working closely with Traditional Owners on projects and education programs.

“I’m glad to see the council’s vision to promote unity, respect and understanding being expressed via a number of important occasions and events such as National Reconciliation Week and the NAIDOC Week exhibition,” Cr Stapleton said.

“Listening to First Nations people and their sharing of powerful reflections provide a path for us to walk together to achieve genuine reconciliation in our community.”

The report also outlines the shire’s sustainability wins, with 2021/22 recorded as the shire’s first full carbon-neutral year for corporate operations under the national Climate Active Carbon Neutral Standard.

Other initiatives include the shire’s adoption of an emissions reduction target of zero by 2030 for its corporate operations, excluding the Anglesea landfill.

The 2021-22 period also featured the council’s resolution to seek urgent investigation into the health of Anglesea River, and the impacts of groundwater extraction, land use and climate change on its catchment.

An affordable housing and key worker shortage prompted the shire’s Affordable Accommodation Action Plan in January, and adoption of the Social Housing Policy 2021.

“I’m proud of the many achievements we have delivered in 2021-22 and am confident that together we will rise to any challenges we are yet to face,” Cr Stapleton said.

“I thank my fellow councillors and staff at Council for their hard work and dedication to help the Surf Coast Shire community and environment to thrive.”