Infrastructure wins and challenges in Noosa Council’s annual report
Three council workers cost ratepayers almost $19,000 for an ‘engineering study’ trip to the United States, and a long-time councillor was hit with a formal reprimand for breaching the Code of Conduct.
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Noosa Council’s 2023/24 Annual Report has revealed the cost ratepayers had to wear to send three councillors on an ‘engineering study’ to the United States.
It also highlighted major infrastructure upgrades and environmental successes in the region, along with councillor pay rates and a reprimand issued to long-time councillor Brian Stockwell.
In reflecting on the year, Noosa Council noted both opportunities and challenges stemming from external factors.
Mayor Frank Wilkie acknowledged the difficulties but stressed the council had remained committed to delivering quality services and advancing key initiatives.
“Serving our community is at the heart of everything Council does and we’re proud of what this small but hard working council has delivered, despite challenges,” Mayor Frank Wilkie said.
Key Challenges
The March 2024 local government elections delayed several decisions and affected the progress of major initiatives.
A competitive construction sector, with a nine per cent growth rate in 2023, led to labour shortages and rising costs.
A 4.4% increase in the Council Cost Index (CCI) in 2023/24, following a 6.9 per cent increase the year prior.
High employee turnover, recruitment delays, and growing community expectations for consultation.
An ambitious Corporate Plan and changes to the Council’s organisational structure.
Despite these challenges, Noosa Council successfully completed 64 projects (42 per cent) and has 41 more (27 per cent) on track for completion. Some initiatives faced minor or major disruptions (19 per cent and 13 per cent respectively), which were rescheduled into future operational plans.
Notable Achievements
Mayor Wilkie highlighted several milestones achieved during the year. The Council’s Infrastructure Services team delivered more than $39 million in capital works, including $6m in bridge upgrades, $5.3m in road rehabilitation and resealing, and $1.95m on the Olive Donald Pavilion at the Noosa District Sports Complex.
The Council also secured $127m in disaster recovery funding for the 2022 floods and completed the Noosa Spit Dog Beach Sand Nourishment project ahead of schedule.
Environmental and Community Initiatives
Notable achievements in environmental and community initiatives include nearly 45,000 tonnes of wasted being diverted from landfill, and more than 4000 trees planted with the support of local Bush Care Group volunteers.
The Council’s libraries loaned more than one million items, with a surge in membership to more than 29,000 residents, and 245 events were hosted a The J Noosa, attracting 250,000 visitors to the Noosa Leisure Centre.
Financial and Workforce Management
Noosa Council reported a $7.4m operating surplus, with an operating surplus ratio of 5.31 per cent, reflecting sound financial management.
Mayor Wilkie also pointed to $14.7m in grant funding that supported the expansion of capital works.
CEO Larry Sengstock commended the council’s focus on disaster preparedness and community engagement, noting the success of the Pomona Place Pilot Program, which received feedback from over 800 residents.
Council Expenses and Travel
Councillor remuneration for 2023-24 was set at $141,294 for the mayor, $88,308 for the deputy mayor, and $75,061 for councillors. Council expenses included professional development, vehicle use, telecommunications, and travel.
Notably, three Noosa Council employees undertook a trip to the USA, costing the council $18,679. The trip was for an engineering study of new technology for landfill and renewable energy products.
Conduct and Compliance
Two orders were issued under the Local Government Act, with five complaints referred to the assessor.
Councillor Brian Stockwell faced allegations of inappropriate conduct, which were found to breach the Code of Conduct by failing to treat employees with courtesy and fairness in emails.
He was formally reprimanded and required to undergo training at his own expense.
However, the second allegation regarding comments made in a meeting was not upheld.
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