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THE REGIONAL COUNCIL
Reinstatement of the Preamble to the Norfolk Island ActOverview of Council Meeting 19 July 2017What does ratepayers money contribute towards in council services?Update on new Waste management disposal chargesTrees around the Airport PrecinctTelephone Directory 2018New Group Manager for CouncilEconomic Development Strategic Direction for CouncilDid you Know?Farewell to Blake HuntonRate Notices2018 Telephone DirectoryUpdate from the World of NorfolkUpcoming Council MeetingDid you know? Water Assurance SchemeKeeping the Community InformedMayors Update - Keeping the community InformedFee and Charges for Waste ManagementFact Sheets - Plastic BagsOutdoor Public AreasSuccessful Sports Grants Funding ApplicationsNew Laws for Private Drinking Water ProvidersCensus Data for Norfolk IslandThinking of moving Solar Panels? Let Customer Care help!$200,000 Tourism Marketing Campaign in New ZealandOverview of Council MeetingKeeping the Community InformedDumping of Contaminated WasteCouncil Fees and ChargesCustomer CareIllegal DownloadsArtwork Competition Telephone Directory 2018Did you Know? Waste Management CentreRatesUpcoming Council MeetingIllegal DownloadsDid you know?Airport Emergency Planning ExerciseNorfolk Island Telephone Directory 2018Inaugural Flight of Norfolk Island AirlinesIllegal DownloadsChanges to the Fuel Supply SystemMayors Update - Keeping the Community InformedNorfolk Island Public Workers Compensation SchemeArgentine AntsReminder - Airport Emergency Planning ExerciseCouncil MeetingReusable Coffee CupsAirport and Fire Services Audit1300 and 1800 NumbersMayors Update - Keeping the Community InformedAirport Emergency Planning ExerciseMayors Update - Keeping the Community informedPort Arthur Historic site study tourAluminium CansMayors Update - Keeping the Community informed “On Wednesday I attended a very informative meeting organised by the men and women who volunteer their time to deliver Meals on Wheels to members of our community. The meeting was convened to discuss how best the service might operate going forward into the future; and it was valuable to have the Hospital Director Ms Kath Bowman and former Hospital Director Mr. David McCowan there,” Mayor Adams said. “This community service which commenced in 1995 under the Directorship of David McCowan was designed, and remains the case today, to provide the island’s elderly with regular nutritious meals at a nominal cost; provide social contact with the volunteers; and allow our senior citizens to remain in their homes. The service was subsidized both by the Hospital and the Norfolk Island Government. Following positive discussion today across the range of issues needing to be addressed, I believe we all left the meeting confident that when the meeting reconvenes on Friday 2 June a detailed Plan on how ‘Wetls on Wheels’ will operate and be funded in the future will be on the table for agreement. All present were committed to ensuring that this valuable service will continue” REMOVAL OF MEDICAL RECORDS “In response to community concerns re the recent removal off island of medical records, I have contacted Ms Karen Heldon, Director Norfolk Island Capital Works with the Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development, who advises that as soon as appropriate file storage is identified on Norfolk Island the archived hospital records will be returned”, Mayor Adams said. “The records were removed from the Old Bakery Building to allow for extensive demolition due to the removal of Asbestos. The Department will be issuing a public statement on the matter”. DRAFT HEALTH PROMOTION ACTION PLAN ENHANCING HEALTH LITERACY AND COMMUNITY CAPACITY ON NORFOLK ISLAND Central and Eastern Sydney PHN (CESPHN) have released for community consideration and comment a draft Health Promotion Action Plan designed to enhance health literacy and community capacity on Norfolk Island. The draft Plan is based on the findings of the South Eastern Sydney Local Health District (SESLHD); Central and Eastern Sydney PHN (CESPHN); the Norfolk Island ‘Needs Assessment’ (Carramar Consulting, 2016), and local consultation. These studies have provided guidance to CESPHN on the needs of the community and opportunities available to promote and implement the Health Promotion Action Plan for the people of Norfolk Island and their visitors. To assist the community with accessing the draft Action Plan Council has placed a copy on its website at www.norfolkisland.gov.nf. Community comment is to be emailed to o.khalaf@cesphn.com.au no later than 9 June 2017. A copy is also available at the Library. More information about CESPHN is available at www.cesphn.org.au. Robin Adams MAYOR 26 May 2017
Requirements to conduct a Tourist Accommodations Establishment in Norfolk IslandPlastic BagsOverview of Council MeetingMayors UpdateWrap up of Property Valuations Community MeetingsC Wise VisitUpcoming Council MeetingCommunity Meeting 17 and 18 May 2017 - Property ValuationsArchiving Norfolk Island StampsABC Classic 93.3FM TransmitterRemoval of Norfolk Island pine treesReminder when burning offNational Volunteer WeekHousehold worm farmsFarewell to John Van Galeen‘I would like to take this opportunity to personally thank John for his hard work and dedication to the role. John commenced with Council in July 2016 and had an immense task before him which he undertook with professionalism, diligence and a dose of good humour. I understand his reasons for needing to leave the island at this time and wish him well for his future. He will be missed’, Ms Lotta Jackson said. The Group Manager Commercial Hub/CFO role will have a name change to Group Manager Corporate/CFO and is currently being advertised, details are in the Government Gazette. Mr Shane Nankivell, Council’s Finance Manager, will be acting in the role until it is filled. ‘Shane has a wealth of knowledge and he has worked closely with John over the year and I have full confidence in his abilities to step into the role of Group Manager, Ms Jackson concluded’. Lotta Jackson GENERAL MANAGER 28 April 2017
Mayors Update - Keeping the Community InformedAIR NEW ZEALAND SERVICES TO NORFOLK ISLAND – REQUEST FOR ADDITIONAL SERVICES
‘As I have previously reported to the community on 6 March 2017, at the invitation of Air New Zealand, the General Manager Ms Lotta Jackson and I, accompanied by Ms Jonica Paramor (Unique Tourism/Norfolk Island Tourism), met in Sydney with representatives from Air New Zealand – Mr. Richard Thomson, (Group General Manager, Commercial), Ms Cath O’Brien (Manager Regulatory Affairs), Ms Kathryn Robertson (Regional General Manager) and Ms Amanda Swallow (Product and Pricing Manager). Mr. Thomson and Ms O’Brien joined us from New Zealand.’ Mayor Adams said.
The following matters were placed on the table by ‘the Norfolk team’ for discussion: a) Withdrawal of the Auckland service; b) Re-instatement of the Brisbane Tuesday service in the low season; c) Look at adding a third Brisbane service in the high season; d) Permanently lock in the Sydney Sunday service in 2018; and e) The Norfolk Island Tourism Strategy which includes the following objectives: i. Increase visitor arrivals by 8% in 2017; ii. Achieve 8% annual growth for the next five years; iii. Reach a target of 35,000 visitors by 2020; iv. Promote the destination to new audiences in Australia and New Zealand; and v. Improve visitor arrivals in the low season. At our meeting Air New Zealand acknowledged and would continue discussion with us on achieving Norfolk Island’s tourism priorities and recommendations to continue to grow tourism at a conservative rate of 8% growth annually, including – a. Re-instating the Tuesday service ex-BRISBANE year round; b. Considering the current Sunday service – ex-SYDNEY - year round rather than seasonal; and c. Permanently locking in the Sydney Sunday service in 2018 ‘I have this week written to the Hon. Senator Fiona Nash pointing out the current challenges for Norfolk Island that include - • Passengers and freight are being consistently off loaded when weather forecasts necessitate aircraft carry extra fuel as diversion to Noumea is no longer an option as passengers are not required to carry passports. This is not in the best interests of our tourism industry. • Ongoing backlog of freight has reached an unacceptable level and is impacting negatively on businesses and any incentive for new business start-ups (we do acknowledge that there will be an additional cargo flight sometime in May – and thank DIRD for arranging for this). • Forward bookings are heavy; in fact there is already zero capacity on a number of flights later in the year. • Airfares for last minute bookings are unreasonably high; this impacts particularly on residents
requiring urgent offshore medical attention and needing to book at the last minute. • Our destination marketing campaign, funded through Council, has been successful to the point of tourists being turned away due to lack of seats, and I have requested open dialogue to immediately address - • The reinstatement of Tuesday flights x-Brisbane in July and August; • To make permanent the Sunday Flight x-Sydney year around; • Address the Cargo situation so that businesses can operate successfully and so that new businesses can commence,’ the Mayor said. ‘A positive outcome from the above discussions together with the most welcome commencementof Norfolk Island Airlines weekly service Brisbane-Norfolk-Auckland-Norfolk-Brisbane in June will seeNorfolk well placed in the visitor market to achieve Council’s target of 8% annual growth for the nextfive years; and to reach a target of 35,000 visitors by 2020’, the Mayor said. Robin Adams MAYOR 28 April 2017
Mobile CoverageRemote base stations (RBS) remove or reduce mobile black spots on the island. Norfolk Telecom Team are working hard to restore this RBS, this will take a few weeks to complete. In the meantime, mobile coverage towards Mill Road and the back of the Mountain will be poor. Council thanks the community for their co-operation and understanding during this time and we are working as quickly as possible to restore the RBS in this area. Lotta Jackson
GENERAL MANAGER 28 April 2017
Public Exhibition Draft Heritage and Culture StrategySubmissions towards the development of this Draft were sought from the community through a mix of radio, online and print mediums. These submissions were reviewed and presented to the Heritage and Culture Advisory Committee (HCAC) for comment and review followed by further assessment and discussion during an informal HCAC workshop. The community submissions and advice from the HCAC together with desktop research and investigation by the Team Leader Heritage Management forms the first draft of the Heritage and Culture Strategy 2017 – 2020. The Community Strategic Plan 2016 – 2026 (CSP) identified that Culture and Community are key aspects of Norfolk Island that we currently love and are proud of. Community consultation throughout the development of the CSP identified priorities based on community expectations and aspirations; these were used to develop the strategic direction and objective underpinning this Heritage and Culture Strategy: Strategic direction – A proud, diverse and inclusive community – we showcase our unique histories, cultures and people Objective – Cultural expression is maintained and built heritage is protected The Strategy presents actions under the headings of – ‘What the Community Said’ and ‘Council’s Role’ with measures/outcomes. ‘What the Community Said” will be measured by a community cultural satisfaction survey developed and issued twice within this Council’s term of office with the results collated and reviewed and necessary actions incorporated into a review of the Heritage and Culture Strategy for 2020 – 2023. Documents on Public Exhibition are made available online for download on www.norfolkisland.gov.nf, follow the link to Documents on Public Exhibition and refer to the documents section at the bottom of the page. Otherwise a hard copy format is available at the Customer Care Office in the Telecom building or at the Public Library next to the radio station on New Cascade Road. To submit your feedback, simply complete the online form available from: https://goo.gl/forms/cDmU67L42S2bT4TP2 Hardcopy forms are available from Customer Care and Norfolk Island Museum SUBMISSIONS CLOSE – 18 MAY 2017 4:00pm The support received from the community and various groups towards the development of the Draft Heritage and Culture Strategy is greatly appreciated. I look forward to receiving further submissions. Janelle Blucher TEAM LEADER HERITAGE MANAGEMENT
21 April 2017
Composting at Home Did you know?
In addition to fruit and vegetable waste and vegetation, the following can be composted in your home composting system: tea bags, coffee grounds, used napkins and paper towels, paper and cardboard, corks, cotton balls, lint, hair clippings and the list goes on! A home composting system is easy to set up and easy to maintain. It is a great way to put some of your wastes to good use and as a result you are rewarded with a beautiful rich organic soil to use on your gardens! Claire Quintal TEAM LEADER – WASTE AND ENVIRONMENT 28 April 2017
Anzac DayDRAFT HERITAGE AND CULTURE STRATEGY 2017 – 2020 - NORF’K AILEN RIIGENL KAUNSL HERITIJ EN KALCHA STRATEJIBE 2017-2020 ‘As Chair of the Heritage and Culture Advisory Committee I again encourage the community, and particularly the cultural groups on the Island, to access a copy of the draft and make a submission if you feel moved to do so. Please contact the team at Customer Care (Telecom building) if you are having difficulty accessing the draft.’ Mayor Adams said. As I said on radio this week the timing of its release seems somewhat synchronistic as this week Friday 28 April marks the 228th Anniversary of the famous Mutiny on the Bounty, that day in history from which the Pitcairners and the Norfolk Islanders of Pitcairn descent trace their origins’. COMMUNITY MEETING TO CONSIDER THE DRAFT OPERATIONAL PLAN 2017-2018
A reminder that a community meeting is being held next Monday 1 May at The Paradise Hotel at 5:45pm to allow the General Manager and I to discuss with the community the draft Operational Plan for the next financial year and give the community the opportunity to ask questions. The Plan which deals with next year’s Council activities, budget, rating structure and fees and charges is out on public exhibition until 19 May. The draft Plan is available on Council’s website norfolkisland.gov.nf - just click on Your Council then Council documents and then on documents on public exhibition. A hard copy of the draft plan is also available at Customer Care at Telecom or at the Library.
Documents on Public Exhibition for Community Feedback
Community feedback is vital as projects develop. The following items are currently out on Public Exhibition for community feedback: Closing - Friday 19 May 2017 Submission form - https://goo.gl/EoEl9g Closing - Thursday 18 May 2017 Submission form - https://goo.gl/YEvBk0 Closing - Friday 19 May 2017 Submission form - https://goo.gl/qqmoUS Closing – Friday 19 May 2017 Submission form - https://goo.gl/kqo0Ph Supporting documents can be viewed at www.norfolkisland.gov.nf under the ‘Public Exhibition Documents’ link on ‘Quick Links’ or with hardcopies of forms available from the Library or Customer Care. For further information, please contact Customer Care on 22244 or email customercare@nirc.gov.nf GENERAL MANAGER 28 April 2017
Cats on Norfolk IslandDocuments on Public ExhibitionOverview of Council MeetingOperational Plan and Community MeetingA Valuation based Rating System for Norfolk Island - Consulting with the CommunityFire Services UpdateOperational Plan and Community MeetingCommunity Feedback - Public Reserves and Cats on Norfolk IslandUpcoming Council Meeting
The following will be discussed at the Council Meeting: Mayoral Minute in regards to Rates and Valuations; Draft Operational Plan for 2017-2018 (includes budget, fees and charges, and the rating model for next financial year), Norfolk Island Fishery Zone, National General Assembly of Local Government 2017, Adoption of a Council Seal, Investment Report March 2017, Tourist Accommodation Act and Regulations, a number of Council policies, Minutes of the Audit Committee, Minutes of the Tourism, Heritage and Culture, Waste Management and Public Reserves Advisory Committees; and a notice of motion relating to Low Impact Mounting Biking. In accordance with Council’s Code of Meeting Practice, section B5.1 ‘Public Access’, residents, ratepayers, applicants, consultants or other persons may apply to address Council, in relation to any matter which is listed for consideration on a Council Business Paper. Speakers are limited to five minutes. Applications to speak need to be in writing to the General Manager by 5:00pm Monday prior to the meeting by emailing regionalcouncil@nirc.gov.nf. The General Manager and the Mayor will together determine whether or not the applicant will be entitled to speak at the meeting.
Mayors Update - Keeping the Community Informed
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Lotta Jackson GENERAL MANAGER |
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24 March 2017 |
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Liquor Bond - Winter Opening Hours
The Liquor Bond has traditionally changed and extended their retail opening hours during thesummer months. As summer is unfortunately soon to leave us, the Liquor Bond will change itsretail opening hours from 3 April 2017 as follows:
Monday to Thursday 9.30am – 5.30pm
Friday to Saturday 9.30am – 6:00pm
Sunday Closed
Bruce Taylor
GROUP MANAGER - SERVICES
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Community Feedback - Public Reserves Plans of Management Review
Part A, is an overarching Plan with individual plans developed for each Public Reserve. As these Plans were developed in 2003 there is a need to update these resources.
Public Reserves Act 1997 outlines measures to ensure that the Public Reserves on Norfolk Island are managed to:
• Promote the conservation of the natural environment and landscape beauty of Norfolk Island;
• Promote the conservation of the heritage of Norfolk Island; and
• Preserves the way of life and quality of life of the people for Norfolk Island.
To ensure these objectives are met, all Plans of Management need reviewing.
Current Plans are available from the Norfolk Island Regional Council website: norfolkisland.gov.nf/NIRC/CouncilAdvisoryCommittees/Public_Reserves/
Your feedback is vital. To submit your feedback, simply complete the online form available on the link above or for a direct path scan the QR code or from: https://goo.gl/forms/tnivh2FIdxY0iASn2
SUBMISSIONS CLOSE – 28 APRIL 2017
For further information, please contact Mike Johnston, Team Leader Public Works / KAVHA / Conservator on 50271 or email mike.johnston@nirc.gov.nf
For further information, please contact Mike Johnston, Team Leader Public Works / KAVHA / Conservator on 50271 or email mike.johnston@nirc.gov.nf
Bruce Taylor
GROUP MANAGER - SERVICES
24 March 2017
GROUP MANAGER - SERVICES
24 March 2017
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Community Feedback - Cats on Norfolk Island
It is clear that the issue of wild/feral cats is causing increasing impact on the natural wildlife,particularly ground-nesting birds. Council has engaged a contractor to eradicate feral cats with 67cats trapped so far this year; however a long term plan is required.
A detailed report has been compiled showcasing the pros and cons for each three options. Thisreport can be obtained from the Norfolk Island Regional Council website:
norfolkisland.gov.nf/NIRC/CouncilAdvisoryCommittees/Public_Reserves/
Your feedback is vital. We are asking you to identify your option regardingthe future of Cats on Norfolk Island. To submit your feedback, simplycomplete the online form available on the link above or for a direct path scanthe QR code:
https://goo.gl/forms/cb3ddpCmt0xLpR233
SUBMISSIONS CLOSE – 28 APRIL 2017
For further information, please contact Mike Johnston, Team Leader Public Works / KAVHA /
Conservator on 50271 or email mike.johnston@nirc.gov.nf
Bruce Taylor
GROUP MANAGER - SERVICES
24 March 2017
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Watermill Dam
The Norfolk Island Regional Council Delivery Program 2016-2020 sets out the actions the Councillors have committed to undertake in their four-year term of office. ‘Support threatened species and minimize invasive species’ is one such commitment.
Feral chook culling has been undertaken by Council to reduce the large numbers of chooks that have been growing over the past six months. Feral chook culling has been undertaken Island wide but particularly at Watermill Dam and Kingston Common areas. Accordingly the public is advised that there are no longer any chickens/roosters at the Watermill Dam and therefore Council asksthe community to please no longer leave food scraps in this area and thanks the community for their co-operation.
Bruce Taylor
GROUP MANAGER - SERVICES
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Mayors Update - Keeping the Community Informed
‘It was my pleasure on behalf of Council and the General Manager to lead the community meeting held on Tuesday evening at the South Pacific Resort Hotel’, Mayor Adams said, ‘and to give context to the meeting I explained that under the Community Strategic Plan 2016-2026 adopted by Council last September, one of the roles and responsibilities of Councillors as the community’s elected representatives is to ensure the Council reports to the community bi-annually. To this end Council at its February meeting recommended that the General Manager arrange for a public meeting to inform and report to the Community of the progress in the first six months of this term of Council commencing 1 July 2016.’
In opening the meeting the Mayor acknowledged the Council of Elders as the recognised authority on Norfolk Island’s traditional knowledge and expressions of culture and as is Council’s practice in its Statement of Respect, ‘acknowledged the Norfolk Island people, the traditional custodians of this island.’
The meeting covered the following:
• The role of the Council;
• Council’s achievements from 1 July to 31 December 2016;
• The advocacy role of Council;
• Mayoral Minutes;
• Additional Council Activities; and
• Question and Answer segment.
THE ROLE OF THE COUNCIL
‘In acknowledgement that there can be confusion around ‘who the Council actually is’, I proposed to the meeting that it can be explained this way. That the Norfolk Island Regional Council could be said to have two arms – one arm being the Governing Body made up of the five Councillors meeting as Council and the other being the Operational arm led by the General Manager who must advise and work with the Mayor and Councillors in performing his or her functions’, Mayor Adams said.
‘The Governing Body can be summed up in a few words - it levies local rates and it plans, it regulates, it protects, it represents, it advocates and it invests; and it directs and controls the affairs of the Council in consultation with the General Manager under the framework of the NSW Local Government Act 1993.
‘As Mayor I sincerely thank the General Manager and her team of staff for what they have achieved for the Council in a very tight time frame thereby assisting Council to meet its onerous obligations under the NSW Local Government Act 1993; an Act which has brought to Norfolk a very new way of doing business and which we continue to work to understand’, Mayor Adams said.
The Mayor touched briefly on the role of the Mayor and how those roles are being met in the community.
COUNCIL’S ACHIEVEMENTS FROM 1 JULY TO 31 DECEMBER 2016
The General Manager, Ms Lotta Jackson, provided an in depth report on the progress of Council’sOperational Plan 2016/17 during the second quarter October to December 2016, together withCouncil’s progress over the first six months of the Norfolk Island Regional Council which commencedon 1 July 2016. Group Manager Commercial Hub, Mr John van Gaalen, gave a powerpointpresentation detailing our financial position at the December 2016 budget review.
THE ADVOCACY ROLE OF COUNCIL
The Community Strategic Plan 2016-2026 adopted by Council on 21 September 2016 spells out areasin which the Council is to advocate for outcomes on behalf of the community. The Mayor providedan update on some of the areas where she and/or the General Manager have advocated on behalfof the community in the first six months of Council -
• Upgrading of mobile and internet services. Discussions continue with Minister Nash and
grant applications have been made.
• Teaching of Norf’k Studies and the Norfolk Island language under LOTE at the Norfolk Island
Central School. The Mayor has brought this to the attention of the School principal and just
yesterday has asked the principal for a briefing on holding the Year 9 Language Camp this
year.
• That the standard of education at Norfolk Island Central School continue to be delivered at
the highest standard; and to advocate for access to vocational and further education.
• Advocate for a Preamble to the Norfolk Island Act. The Advisory Council has recommended
that this be a matter for Council to pursue and I will be raising this as part of my ongoing
conversation with Minister Nash on the Applied Legislation regime.
• Access to funded early education and childcare and vacation care programs. Raised with
Minister Nash both during her September and December visit to the Island.
• Need for coordination of health care services on Norfolk Island. This matter has been raised
with the Chief Executive of the South East Sydney Local Health District during his two
meetings with Council.
The Community Strategic Plan 2016-2026 adopted by Council on 21 September 2016 spells out areasin which the Council is to advocate for outcomes on behalf of the community. The Mayor providedan update on some of the areas where she and/or the General Manager have advocated on behalfof the community in the first six months of Council -
• Upgrading of mobile and internet services. Discussions continue with Minister Nash and
grant applications have been made.
• Teaching of Norf’k Studies and the Norfolk Island language under LOTE at the Norfolk Island
Central School. The Mayor has brought this to the attention of the School principal and just
yesterday has asked the principal for a briefing on holding the Year 9 Language Camp this
year.
• That the standard of education at Norfolk Island Central School continue to be delivered at
the highest standard; and to advocate for access to vocational and further education.
• Advocate for a Preamble to the Norfolk Island Act. The Advisory Council has recommended
that this be a matter for Council to pursue and I will be raising this as part of my ongoing
conversation with Minister Nash on the Applied Legislation regime.
• Access to funded early education and childcare and vacation care programs. Raised with
Minister Nash both during her September and December visit to the Island.
• Need for coordination of health care services on Norfolk Island. This matter has been raised
with the Chief Executive of the South East Sydney Local Health District during his two
meetings with Council.
MAYORAL MINUTES
The Mayor spoke of the advocacy role used in the Council framework through the Mayoral Minuteand mentioned the outcome from three of the Mayoral Minute motions proposed and agreed byCouncil.
The Airport loan - 20 July 2016
Council agreed that the Mayor and the General Manager enter into discussion with theCommonwealth Government that the Airport Loan from the Commonwealth be deemed fullydischarged with effect 1 September 2016 as a gesture of goodwill to the Norfolk Island communityas part of the transition to a sustainable Regional Council. I continue in discussion re the waiver withMinister Nash; in the meantime the terms of the loan repayment have been favorably amended.
Funding for the Hawaiki Cable - 21 September 2016
Council requested the General Manager to request the Commonwealth Government to take aleading role in creating a commercial partnership between itself and the Norfolk Island RegionalCouncil to connect to the Hawaiki submarine cable. Despite Council’s best intentions/effortsregrettably connection to the Hawaiki cable did not proceed.
Council requested the General Manager to request the Commonwealth Government to take aleading role in creating a commercial partnership between itself and the Norfolk Island RegionalCouncil to connect to the Hawaiki submarine cable. Despite Council’s best intentions/effortsregrettably connection to the Hawaiki cable did not proceed.
Management Plans for Commonwealth Marine Reserves - 19 October 2016
Resolved that Council provides a submission which includes the following points:
• That the current traditional fishing activities remain legal in waters surrounding Norfolk
Island up to the limits of the 40nm x 67nm ‘box';
• That the recommendation to rezone a large part of Norfolk Islands ‘box’ be amended to be
the same size as our current ‘box'.
No response received to date.
ADDITIONAL COUNCIL ACTIVITIES
The Mayor reported that Councillors and senior staff met on two occasions with Minister Nash andon two occasions with Gai Brodtman MP. Topics discussed at these meetings included the FinancialAssistance Grant, telecommunications, waste management, sustainable energy, airport and childcare amongst other matters.
‘We continue to advocate to the Commonwealth that funding for Council’s activities, in particularfunding for the core Council functions of tourism and waste management,’ the Mayor said, ‘and wecontinue to press that the Financial Assistance Grants (FAGS) for Norfolk Island should be no lessthan that awarded by the Western Australia State Grant Commission to Christmas Island which in2015/16 received $4,084,455 compared to $1,893,690 grant awarded to Norfolk Island by the NSWState Grant Commission.’
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
‘It was clear by the number of questions asked that those present appreciated the opportunity toshare their concerns and/or get clarity on matters addressed in the presentations, or on Councilactivities in general,’ the Mayor said, ‘and whilst discussion on answers provided was robust attimes, the discussions at all times were respectful and I thank the community for their courtesy tome as Chair.’
The following were just some of the questions asked. Responses to these and other questions asked will be provided in next week’s media.
• Are we part of NSW?
• Is Council taking on contractors on higher wages?
• Council’s budget deficit?
• Is there cultural awareness training for current staff?
• Forward strategy to raise money; and future plans to increase airport viability?
• Why land rates not GST?
• Removal of airport security bond – progress?
• Electricity deficit – possible funding from Clean Energy Finance Corporation?
• Importation of rock – where at?
‘It was clear by the number of questions asked that those present appreciated the opportunity toshare their concerns and/or get clarity on matters addressed in the presentations, or on Councilactivities in general,’ the Mayor said, ‘and whilst discussion on answers provided was robust attimes, the discussions at all times were respectful and I thank the community for their courtesy tome as Chair.’
The following were just some of the questions asked. Responses to these and other questions asked will be provided in next week’s media.
• Are we part of NSW?
• Is Council taking on contractors on higher wages?
• Council’s budget deficit?
• Is there cultural awareness training for current staff?
• Forward strategy to raise money; and future plans to increase airport viability?
• Why land rates not GST?
• Removal of airport security bond – progress?
• Electricity deficit – possible funding from Clean Energy Finance Corporation?
• Importation of rock – where at?
Robin Adams
MAYOR
24 March 2017
MAYOR
24 March 2017
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Community Meeting Reminder
For those who are unable to attend, Council’s progress report on the first six months of operation can be found in the Agenda for the February Ordinary Council Meeting on Council’s website (see pages 46-72 and 117-135):
http://www.norfolkisland.gov.nf/NIRC_Council_Meetings/Agendas/2017/
Lotta Jackson
GENERAL MANAGER
17 March 2017
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Overview of Council Meeting
Council approved that a request be sent to the Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development to draft an ordinance for Minister Nash’s approval to repeal the Absentee Landowners Levy Act 1976 (NI), whilst maintaining the debt and debt-collection provisions of the Act. As Council expects the rate levy from 2017-18 to exceed $1 million based on the 2016-17 forecast this will cover the loss of $170,000 from the Absentee Landowners Levy.
Council approved the General Manager to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Port Macquarie-Hastings Council. This MOU allows each Council, on a cost recovery basis, to use the other Council’s assistance if required. Each party will reimburse each other on a cost recovery basis for staff time, travel and accommodation expenses incurred in undertaking works. This means that if the Norfolk Island Regional Council request Port Macquarie-Hastings Council’s assistance or attendance to certain issues, then Norfolk Island Regional Council will cover the costs as required and vice versa.
With the imminent introduction of the Public Health Legislation to Norfolk Island, Port-Macquarie-Hastings Council will assist with staff training and community engagement practices for the implementation of the new legislation. Port Macquarie-Hastings Council has assisted Lord Howe Island with similar activities.
Council noted that the valuation process for properties on Norfolk Island would commence prior to July 2017 with preliminary reviews. Valuing properties will allow Council to adequately deal with the issue of compensation required for those properties adversely affected by the Norfolk Island Sewage Scheme and also ensure that Council complies with relevant legislation that requires rates levies to be based on land valuations from the 2018-19 financial year.
This media release provides a brief overview of some of the matters that were addressed at the Council meeting. For full details visit Council’s website www.norfolkisland.gov.nf to view the meeting Agenda, Minutes or to listen to the recording of the meeting. Hardcopies of the Agenda and Minutes are available to view in hardcopy at Customer Care or the Library.
Council’s values: Integrity, communication, accountability, respect and excellence
Lotta Jackson
GENERAL MANAGER
17 March 2017
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Museum Update
VOLUNTEERS EXTRAORDINAIRE
Don and Sue Brian returned to our shores, once again, to offer their time and expertise to the Norfolk Island Museum. This visit was specifically to undertake the accessioning process of the objects recovered from the infrastructure services upgrade of the Double Boatshed, Blacksmiths’ Compound and areas of Quality Row during 2015 by the then Commonwealth Heritage Manager, Matt Alexander, archaeologist Douglas Hobbs and the KAVHA works team.
The second stage of their volunteer project was to carry out the same process for the objects recovered from the 2015 upgrade of the infrastructure services along the rear of the Quality Row buildings. Some of these objects may relate to “Irish Town” the former soldiers garden hut area on the hill above the Old Military Barracks Compound, the others from a midden that appears to be dating to the early Pitcairner period, these objects are comprised mainly of glass and ceramics with some stone, metal and animal remains.
Two items of particular interest were identified in the bags of materials which had not been previously noted, one was a worked flint of the same shape and size as that used on a Short Land Pattern Musket and the other was a small hallmarked silver piece which may be a button back provisionally dating to 1792. This project amounted to 2,829 items being identified, described, recorded, and accessioned into the Norfolk Island Museum database as part of the KAVHA collection. All but 900 of these were individually, physically numbered prior to being rehoused. Those which were not numbered were bags of broken bottle glass dating back to the 1920s.
Also, whilst they were on island they kept themselves ‘extra’ busy by tidying up at our museum store, undertaking conservation of a community owned artefact and installing our precious scrimshaw and whaling gun into the new Norfolk Pine cabinets within the Pier Store Museum. We received two new cabinets costing $1,000; they were donated to the museum by Sue and Don. They also, funded their own way to Norfolk, however we were able to provide them with $1,000 as contribution towards their airfares, this $1,000 came from funds they had donated back to the Museum Trust in 2015 when they undertook an Audit and Condition Assessment of the Trust’s collection.
Absolute dynamos to say the least! Thanks must also be offered to Chris Ciantar and Sorrel Wilby for their support of the Norfolk Island Museum by providing accommodation, to Lou and Jimbo Tavener for the car and to Brian Prince the Commonwealth Heritage Manager for providing the workspace. Thanks to you all from the Norfolk Island Museum.
Janelle Blucher
TEAM LEADER HERITAGE MANAGEMENT
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Community Meeting
The purpose of this community meeting is to provide an opportunity for the General Manager and Mayor to report on the progress and activity that Council has undertaken in the first six months of operation. There will also be an opportunity for the community to ask questions in relation to Council’s achievements to date. We are looking forward to the event and encourage the community to attend.
For those who are unable to attend, Council’s progress report on the first six months of operation can be found in the agenda for the February Ordinary Council meeting on Council’s web-site (see pages 46-72 and 117-135):
http://www.norfolkisland.gov.nf/NIRC_Council_Meetings/Agendas/2017/
Lotta Jackson
GENERAL MANAGER
10 March 2017
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Keeping the Community informed - Mayor Update
’On Monday 6 January, at the invitation of Air New Zealand, the General Manager and I, accompanied by Ms Jonica Paramor (Unique Tourism/Norfolk Island Tourism), met in Sydney with representatives from Air New Zealand – Mr. Richard Thomson, (Group General Manager, Commercial), Ms Cath O’Brien (Manager Regulatory Affairs), Ms Kathryn Robertson (Regional General Manager) and Ms Amanda Swallow (Product and Pricing Manager). Mr. Thomson and Ms O’Brien joined us from New Zealand,’ Mayor Adams said.
The following matters were placed on the table by ‘the Norfolk team’ for discussion:
• Withdrawal of the Auckland service;
• Re-instatement of the Brisbane Tuesday service in the low season;
• Look at adding a third Brisbane service in the high season;
• Permanently lock in the Sydney Sunday service in 2018; and
• The Norfolk Island Tourism Strategy which includes the following objectives:
o Increase visitor arrivals by 8% in 2017;
o Achieve 8% annual growth for the next five years;
o Reach a target of 35,000 visitors by 2020;
o Promote the destination to new audiences in Australia and New Zealand; and
o Improve visitor arrivals in the low season.
The following restructure of Norfolk Island Tourism was discussed including:
• The role of the Norfolk Island Regional Council;
• The increased scope of services to be provided by UTC (Unique Tourism Collection) with the marketing function for both Australia and New Zealand now based in Australia.
• The role of the Norfolk Island Regional Council;
• The increased scope of services to be provided by UTC (Unique Tourism Collection) with the marketing function for both Australia and New Zealand now based in Australia.
OUTCOMES FROM DISCUSSIONS
Auckland/Norfolk Service
Air New Zealand provided background to their decision to withdraw from the Auckland service. It was made clear that Air New Zealand would not be reconsidering the decision to exit this service at this time. Air New Zealand was hopeful that another carrier, such as Norfolk Island Airlines, would be able to make a commercial success of the route.
Auckland/Norfolk Service
Air New Zealand provided background to their decision to withdraw from the Auckland service. It was made clear that Air New Zealand would not be reconsidering the decision to exit this service at this time. Air New Zealand was hopeful that another carrier, such as Norfolk Island Airlines, would be able to make a commercial success of the route.
Brisbane Reduced Services
Air New Zealand acknowledged and would continue discussion with us on achieving Norfolk Island’s tourism priorities and recommendations to continue to grow tourism at a conservative rate of 8% growth annually, including –
a. Re-instating the Tuesday service ex-BRISBANE year round;
b. Considering current Sunday service – ex-SYDNEY - year round rather than seasonal.
It was noted that these service options would be subject to consideration and support of the Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development.
Freight
Air New Zealand would review the issue of the backlog of freight which continues to be held up in both Sydney and Brisbane, causing delays of up to 6 weeks or more.
Air New Zealand would review the issue of the backlog of freight which continues to be held up in both Sydney and Brisbane, causing delays of up to 6 weeks or more.
Commonwealth And Air New Zealand Discussions
While Air New Zealand is willing to engage in future dialogue on achieving the stated priorities; it cannot commit the Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development (DIRD). That commitment will need to be sought.
Air New Zealand
While Air New Zealand is not limited from increasing frequency of services on any of the Australia to Norfolk Island sectors, it will require consultation and agreement with DIRD which ultimately has an economic exposure to the performance of any additional service.
Statistics
Air New Zealand to confirm that they have no difficulty with releasing to the public the monthly passengers’ numbers provided to Council by Australian Immigration and Border Protection. A sample copy was provided.
‘The Norfolk team left the meeting feeling positive and optimistic,’ the Mayor said. ‘I am also confident that Air New Zealand left the meeting with a clear view of Norfolk’s tourism priorities and that I speak on behalf of Councillors when I say that we are committed to building a closer working relationship with Air New Zealand and other stakeholders moving forward in order to achieve our objective – namely, to grow Norfolk Island visitor numbers to 35,000 by 2020.’
‘The General Manager and I thank Air New Zealand for facilitating what we hope will be regular face to face meetings with senior management’, the Mayor said, ‘and if the next one can happen on the Island so much the better’.
Robin Adams MAYOR
Lotta Jackson GENERAL MANAGER
10 March 2017
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Executive Manager Governance and human Resources Appointment - Joy Walker
Norfolk Island Regional Council General Manager, Lotta Jackson, is pleased to announce that Joy Walker has been appointed as Executive Manager Governance and Human Resources for the Norfolk Island Regional Council and commenced on 27 February 2017.
Joy has previously worked as Manager Corporate Services and Human Resources remotely in Far Western NSW at Central Darling Shire Council, which covers the major towns of Wilcannia, Ivanhoe, Menindee and White Cliffs.
Joy was born in Paddington, NSW, then lived in Cessnock for a number of years before moving to Merrylands where she completed her education. Joy began her career in local government at Blue Mountains City Council, in the Electricity Department with 22 ½ years in electricity distribution.
She has over 40 years public and private sector experience in demolition and construction, regional and local tourism, rural lands protection, medical administration and governance, forestry, fair trading, Meals on Wheels and more recently with the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). She has extensive experience in management, office administration, team management, customer service, human resources, training and assessment and emergency management.
Joy holds a Post Graduate Diploma in Workplace Relations from Western Sydney University and a Bachelor of Social Science in Emergency Management from Charles Sturt University, Bathurst, NSW Workcover Return to Work Coordinator, Cert IV Training and Assessment, Category 3 Compliance Training, Management and Marketing Certificates from TAFE NSW.
Joy’s personal interests on the mainland included volunteering
with the NSW Rural Fire Service as a Communication Officer, Air Radio Operator and Community Engagement, where she has volunteered for over 45 years, Camden Haven Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Tourism where she held executive and committee positions, assisting with festivals including music, food and wine, spending time with friends and family particularly her daughter, son-in-law, three beautiful grandchildren and two great grandchildren.
On Norfolk Island Joy hopes to be able to get involved with community groups to assist in ways where her skills and experience will be beneficial.
‘I warmly welcome Joy to the Council team and looking forward to the contribution she will make to Council with her skills and experience as we continue to strengthen the organisation for the benefit of the community’, Ms Lotta Jackson said.
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Lotta Jackson GENERAL MANAGER |
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10 March 2017 |
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Emily Bay named in top ten beaches
Social media is used widely as a decision making tool by travelers so it’s great that Norfolk Island is getting this fantastic exposure through the internet giant TripAdvisor. Emily Bay is currently ranked tenth in the top 10, so if your family and friends enjoy Emily Bay encourage them to go onto TripAdvisor and review our beautiful beach!
TripAdvisor’s Travellers’ Choice Awards – top 10 beaches in Australia:
1. Whitehaven Beach - Whitsunday Island, QLD
2. Surfers Paradise Beach - Surfers Paradise, QLD
3. Noosa Main Beach – Noosa, QLD
4. Manly Beach - Sydney, NSW
5. Turquoise Bay - Exmouth, WA
6. Burleigh Heads Beach - Burleigh Heads, QLD
7. Cable Beach - Broome, WA
8. Mooloolaba Beach - Mooloolaba, QLD
9. The Strand - Townsville, QLD
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Lotta Jackson GENERAL MANAGER |
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10 March 2017 |
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Council Meeting - 15 March 2017
There will be an Ordinary Council Meeting on Wednesday, 15 March 2017 at 2:00pm. The meeting will be held in the Council Chambers at the Bicentennial Complex and community members are welcome to attend. A reminder to the community that the meeting will be broadcast live and re-broadcast the following day at 9.30am on 91.9FM.
The following will be discussed at the Council Meeting: Minutes of the Tourism, Waste Management, Public Reserves and Rock Feed Source Advisory Committees, the process of Land Valuations, February 2017 Investment Report, Absentee Landowners Levy Act, Education Act and Regulations, External Auditors Tender, Memorandum of Understanding with Port Macquarie-Hastings Council, and a Council policy on accessing financial management systems.
In accordance with Council’s Code of Meeting Practice, section B5.1 “Public Access” please be informed that Residents, ratepayers, applicants, consultants or other persons may apply to address Council, in relation to any matter which is listed for consideration on a Council Business Paper. Speakers are limited to five minutes. Applications to speak need to be in writing to the General Manager by 5:00pm Monday prior to the meeting by emailing regionalcouncil@nirc.gov.nf. The General Manager and the Mayor will together determine whether or not the applicant will be entitled to speak at the meeting.
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Lotta Jackson GENERAL MANAGER |
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10 March 2017 |
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Fire Ban Reminder
The community are reminded that a fire ban is in place until 6:00pm on 28 February 2017. Gas barbeques are one exception. Even when the ban is lifted the community are asked to use caution if lighting a fire in summer months and leave unnecessary burning to cooler and wetter months.
Enquiries can be directed to the Acting Chief Fire Control Officer on telephone 22049 or 51199.
The fire ban notice in place 11 to 28 February 2017 can be viewed at http://norfolkisland.gov.nf/governmentgazette/2017/2017_02_10%20Gazette%20No.%2065.pdf
Lotta Jackson
GENERAL MANAGER
24 February 2017
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Tourism News
Watawieh yorlyi and a big welcome to all our visitors,
Media famil visits
Natasha Dragun (photo at old boat) is a Travel Editor who was on the island 23-27 January, writing for Mindfood magazine. Mindfood is a popular lifestyle magazine that has a monthly distribution of 65,000 Australia wide and Natasha’s travel story will appear in the April issue. Many thanks to Robyn at Kentia Holiday apartments for the superior cottage, Eldoo hire cars, the NI Museums, Two Chimney winery, Pinetree tours, Ariane for the High tea luncheon, Emily at Hilli Goat farm, Sorrel Wilby, Fletcher’s Mutiny Cyclorama, and Beachy for the tour of Colleen McCullough’s house. Natasha was also able to attend the annual Wearable Art evening.
Christine Retschlag (photo at Queen Elizabeth lookout) is a travel blogger and social media influencer. Christine has her own blog “global goddess”, she is writing for Australian Senior Traveller and is in the top 10% of Australia’s best Social Media influencers. Many thanks to Karlene at Broadleaf Villas, Eldoo hire cars for the moke, Pinetree tours, Rhonda Griffiths, Baunti Escapes, Nat at Sweet Pea Cakery, NI Museums, Two Chimney Winery, Heidi at Bedrock, Liz McCoy, Emily at Hilli Goat farm, Liane at the Fletcher’s Mutiny Cyclorama, and every-one who Christine met and made her stay so enjoyable.
NZ Fairfax media (photo at Lone pine) Craig Horley (L) is a journalist with NZ Fairfax media and Jason Dorday a visual journalist, the guys were on island for 2 days last week. NZ Fairfax publications include the Sunday News, the Dominion Post, NZ House and Garden, various regional papers and Stuff.co.nz (both print and digital)
Craig will write for the travel supplement in the Sunday papers and Craig has filmed news snippets and will also compile a video clip for social media. Many thanks to the Sarah and Tony at the Castaway hotel, Eldoo for the moke, David at Charter Marine and Rob for the Phillip island trek, Umi at the golf course, Jane & Lou from the Outrigger club, Emily and Zach, Rod and Noelene, NI Museums & Fletcher’s Mutiny Cyclorama.
Flight Centre Travel Expo’s
Norfolk Island Tourism has had a travel stand at the recent Auckland, Brisbane and Sydney Flight Centre Expo’s. The Flight Centre expos are some of the largest consumer expos held, with a good attendance no’s. N.I Tourism handed out the destination brochure, maps and activity guides, names taken for those interested in receiving the monthly newsletter, there were lots of genuine enquiries about Norfolk and discounted holiday deals were available to book over the weekends. At the Auckland Expo, N.I Tourism presented in the seminar room.
Photo shows the Auckland stand. (Many thanks to Anona Buffett for your help in Auckland)
TraveMedia’s International Media Marketplace (TIMM)
TIMM is now established as the industry’s leading platform for travel and tourism brands to meet media. Exhibitors each enjoy a dedicated branded table where they can brief top-flight travel journalists, editors and broadcasters on their forthcoming news, events and developments. As a single-day networking and relationship-building opportunity for travel and tourism brands and journalists, IMM is unmatched.
Norfolk Island Tourism was represented again at TIMM, held in Sydney, yesterday 24 February. Provided to all of the appointments were destination marketing resources such as the destination brochure, media kit, editorial content and USB’s of images and video clips. TIMM is an important event to attend, as it exposes Norfolk Island to both the Australia, New Zealand and overseas media market.
Calendar of Events – March 2017
6 FOUNDATION DAY – Public Holiday
3-11 First Fleet Anniversary celebrations.
8 Government House Charity Open Day.
18-25 NLP Practitioner Certification training (Travel Centre)
26 – 3 April – Line Dancing festival with Kate Simpkin
29 – 1 April - NOC Norfolk Ocean challenge (Outriggers)
Tania @ N.I. Tourism #norfolkisland
Norfolk Island Tourism is a function of the Norfolk Island Regional Council.
For further information please view www.norfolkisland.com.au
Lotta Jackson, General Manager
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Keeping the Community informed
HERITAGE AND CULTURE ADVISORY COMMITTEE
‘I appreciated the opportunity to meet with the KAVHA Advisory Committee at Government House yesterday,’ Mayor Adams said. ‘I was accompanied by Ms Janelle Blucher, Council’s Team Leader Heritage Management and together we briefed the Committee on the role and goals of the Heritage and Culture Advisory Committee established by the Norfolk Island Regional Council at its 19 October 2016 meeting. It was a pleasure to meet Committee Members Mr Kevin Sumption, Director Australian National Maritime Museum, Sydney and Ms Kristal Buckley AM, Lecturer in Cultural Heritage and a member of the research network for Asia-Pacific Cultural Heritage, Deakin University Melbourne. Mr Sumption and Ms Buckley are joined on the Committee by the Administrator Mr Gary Hardgrave (Chair) and our local representatives Mr David (Dids) Evans and Mr Duncan Evans.’
The Mayor’s brief to the Committee included the following:
“Under the NSW Local Government Act 1993 Council is required to plan strategically; and to develop short, medium and long-term plans under the Integrated Planning and Reporting (IPR) Framework for the provision of effective and efficient services and regulation to meet the diverse needs of the local community.
“The Norfolk Island Regional Council on 21 September 2016 adopted its 10 year Community Strategic Plan 2016-2026 – Our Plan for the Future (the Community Plan)
“The IPR Framework for Norfolk Island differs from the framework applied in NSW because of the location of Norfolk Island and because Norfolk Island is a territory of Australia but not part of NSW (page 8 of the Community Plan)
“Strategic Direction 02 in the Community Plan is titled ‘A proud, diverse and inclusive community – we showcase our unique histories, cultures and people’. The Objective of this Strategic Direction is that ‘Cultural expression is maintained and built heritage is protected.’ The Strategic Direction identifies Council’s role in achieving this goal; a role that includes Council –
• Develop a Heritage and Culture Strategy outlining how the Regional Council will preserve he heritage sites for which is responsible, and how it will promote and support cultural expression;
Work to protect the aspects of cultural expression which make Norfolk Island unique and special;
• Develop a cultural expression strategy;
• Continue to advocate for the teaching of Norf’k studies and the Norfolk Island language under LOTE at the Norfolk Island Central School;
• Remain committed to supporting the objectives of the KAVHA Heritage Management Plan Final Report April 2016;
• Engage and consult the Council of Elders on cultural and heritage matters;
• Preserve and protect heritage sites under the control of the Regional Council;
• Advocate for a Preamble to the Norfolk Island Act.
“Membership of the Heritage and Advisory Committee comprises the Mayor Cr Adams and Cr Snell; a representative from each of the following: the Council of Elders; the Norfolk Island Central School, the Norfolk Island Historical Society, Community Arts Society and three community members.
“The purpose of the Committee is to advise Council on the Heritage and Culture Strategy and to actively promote heritage and culture in the Norfolk Island community and to -
• To assist with the formulation of a Heritage and Culture Strategy, including community consultations;
• Organise and/or promote cultural events, and;
• Make recommendations to the Norfolk Island Regional Council”
The Team Leader Heritage Management, Ms Janelle Blucher, briefed the KAVHA Advisory Committee on the Committee’s activities to date, including the workshop held last Friday where Committee members considered the community submissions received and the surveys submitted.
The question and answer segment that followed was a worthwhile information sharing exercise with all committed to working in partnership to showcase and protect Norfolk Island’s wonderful history.
ABSENCE OF MAYOR
Mayor Adams is off Island from Monday 27 February returning 7 March 2017 and will report on her return on the meeting she and the General Manager Ms Lotta Jackson will be attending in Sydney on Monday 6 March with representatives from Air New Zealand.
Robin Adams
MAYOR
24 February 2017
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Your Regional Council's first 6 Months
Norfolk Island Regional Council’s Reporting Card on the first six (6) months of operation
The purpose of this article is to inform the Community of the progress of the Operational Plan 2016/17, during the second quarter October to December 2016, as well as the progress over the first six (6) months of the Norfolk Island Regional Council.
The first and second quarters of the new Council have been extremely productive with the Operational Plan 2016/17 acting as the guiding document for staff. For the full details of Council’s progress, please visit Council’s web-site with links to the agenda for the February Council meeting:
/NIRC_Council_Meetings/Agendas/2017/CO_20170215_AGN_2091_AT.pdf
The first quarter summary of progress (July to September)
Since the Regional Council commenced as a new organisation on 1 July, the first immediate action was to set up the governance framework with the first report to Council dealing with the method of electing the Mayor and Deputy Mayor, the second report dealt with the election of these positions and subsequent reports with the adoption of the Code of Conduct and the Code of Meeting Practice.
Other key governance policies that have been adopted during this period are the Payment of Expenses and Provision of Facilities to Councillors, Councillor Access to Information and Interaction with Staff, Media Policy and Oversight of the General Manager by the Mayor.
Concurrently with setting up the governance framework, attention has been provided to the development of a log of claims for the Enterprise Agreement that will become Council’s industrial instrument.
The largest project for this year, the setting up and implementation of Civica (an integrated business software system) commenced in this quarter with intensive training and data input by several staff teams.
In addition to actioning activities in the Operational Plan 2016/17, staff have attended to 22 Councillor Action Requests relating to a variety of matters, attended to a number of substantial amendments to Officers’ reports, and several Notices of Motions, during the months of July to September.
It is critical for staff to be able to focus on the actions within the Operational Plan so that Council can achieve what it has adopted to carry out this financial year. It is therefore important to avoid detractions or changes to directions of activities as that can lead to confusion and lack of consistency in staff being able to deliver what already is adopted within the Operational Plan.
At the staff information training sessions held on 6 and 7 October, the General Manager summarised the achievements since 1 July and thanked all staff for their dedication and commitment in carrying out their roles. The list of achievements included the following activities:
Framework for Governance established;
Community meeting, public exhibition and adoption of the Community Strategic Plan 2016-2026;
Development, public exhibition and adoption of the Operational Plan 2016/17;
Development of log of claim for Enterprise Agreement;
Refinement and restructure of the Organisational Structure to meet the need of the Local Government Framework – still to be confirmed;
Civica Project commenced and full steam ahead;
Developed Waste Management initiatives to reduce waste;
Road works continued under difficult circumstances;
Project Management training for staff – second round later in October;
Grounds and reserves maintenance at high standard;
Council customer service team aim for high standard with continuous improvement practices;
Commenced new web-site;
Review commenced for the supply of electricity with project plan in place;
Destination Marketing and Tourism activities supported and enhanced;
Five Advisory Committees adopted: Waste Management, Rock Feed Source, Public Reserves, Tourism and Sustainable Energy;
Museums successful with grant application and high visitation;
Airport challenges are being addressed;
Library is ticking away smoothly.
Policies adopted:
Council Access to Information and Interaction with Staff;
Media Policy;
Oversight of the General Manager by the Mayor;
Payment of Expenses and Provision of Facilities to Councillors;
Community Donations;
Secondary Employment.
The second quarter summary of progress (October to December)
The key achievements in this quarter were the adoption of the Delivery Program and Resourcing Strategy.
The Resourcing Strategy includes:
- 10-year Long Term Financial Plan – the development of the Long Term Financial Plan was a major project that included an analysis of the current budget, historical data, and assumptions for future years;
- Asset Management Plans – the development of the Asset Management Plans involved auditing Council’s current Assets;
- Workforce Management Plan (WMP) - staff were consulted extensively through participating in a SWOT analysis and through a staff survey that has informed the actions within the WMP. The General Manager facilitated workshops with all staff in October. The workshops included consultation on the WMP as well as the Equal Employment Opportunity Management Plan.
The Equal Employment Opportunity Management Plan 2016-2020 was adopted in the second quarter and this document is a policy document that complements the Workforce Management Plan. Further, in relation to staff, an agreement was achieved in relation to the Enterprise Bargaining Agreement with Management accepting the draft Agreement presented by staff delegates in December 2016.
Other key activities during the second quarter include the following:
- Establishment, calling for members and initial meetings of the Waste Management Advisory Committee;
- Establishment, calling for members and initial meeting of the Tourism Advisory Committee;
- Establishment, calling for members and initial meeting Rock Feed Source Advisory Committee;
- Establishment, calling for members and initial meeting of the Heritage and Culture Advisory Committee;
- Establishment, calling for members and initial meeting of the Public Reserves Advisory Committee;
- Establishment, calling for members for the Sustainable Energy Advisory Committee;
- The Audit Committee held its first meeting in November 2016;
- Development of a meeting schedule of all Council and Committee meetings;
- Extensive Tourism Destination Marketing with the launch of the new Destination Marketing campaign, including the Ray Martin videos, with over 100 stakeholders attending. The launch also included a presentation by the Tourism Team Leader on Tourism on Norfolk Island and current statistics. Statistics have indicated increased visitation to the Island as a result of Destination Marketing;
- Extensive activities carried out at the Museums;
- Rates and receipting module live as of 19 October 2016. First rates instalment notices successfully produced in late October, receipting of these has been ongoing since this time with no loss of data integrity;
- Continued build of Civica (Council’s Business software) with an extensive staff training program;
- The shell and base functionality of the new website was delivered by the company Morpht on 23 December. Content is now being reviewed and amended internally by staff;
- Research and background work conducted for the Council business units of Telecom and Electricity.
- The Queen Elizabeth Avenue/Taylors Road footpath and associated roadworks was completed as well as unplanned drainage work;
- Main storm-water drain constructed at the corner of Ferny Lane and New Farm Road;
- Waste Management Centre practices have been streamlined to enable more time for staff to attend to recycling – crushing of glass, tin and metal;
- Water testing of water at Accommodation places have taken place in preparation for new legislation later in the year.
In addition to actioning activities in the Operational Plan 2016/17, staff have attended to 13 Councillor Action Requests relating to a variety of matters, attended to several amendments to Officers’ reports, and significant Mayoral Minutes during the months of October to December.
Policies adopted:
- Gifts and Benefits Policy;
- Procurement Policy;
- Statement of Business Ethics;
- Creating and Maintaining Council Policies and Procedures;
- Equal Employment Opportunity Management Plan;
- Investment Policy;
- Corporate Credit Card Policy;
- Sports Grant Funding Policy.
All Policies are available on Council’s web-site for the public to view.
July to December - Reporting on specific additional Council Activities
Councillors and senior staff met on two (2) occasions with Senator Hon Fiona Nash, and on two (2) occasions with Gai Brodtmann MP. Topics discussed at these occasions included the Financial Assistance Grant, Telecommunications, Waste Management, Sustainable Energy, Airport and Child Care amongst other matters.
The Mayor and General Manager have attended regular meetings with The Administrator
Hon Gary Hardgrave during the first six (6) month to discuss progress on various matters including the transition of services to the Commonwealth and communication around these.
In addition to the Local Government functions, Council staff have consistently delivered the State Type Services contracted by the Commonwealth. Staff have addressed inconsistencies or issues during these first six (6) months in order to make the services better. The services include Education, Policing, Courts and Legal Services, Tribunals/Boards, Child Welfare, Registry, Licencing and Regulatory Enforcement, Emergency Services, Kingston and Arthurs Vale Historic Area (KAVHA) - Landscape and garden maintenance, Office of the Administrator, Gaming, Pest and Noxious Weed Control, Workers Compensation, Ports Management, Record Keeping, Spatial Policy and Planning, ICT Support and Pensioner Rates Rebates.
Community engagement - Community informed
Community engagement and keeping the community informed have been key aspects of the Mayor and General Manager with newspaper articles and radio announcements delivered on a weekly basis to keep the community informed of Council’s activities. In addition, Council has also placed on public exhibition the Operational Plan 2016/17 (including budget, rates and fees and charges), Norfolk Island Community Strategic Plan 2016-2026, and the Delivery Program 2016-2020, inviting submissions from the community.
Due to Council being a new entity, the General Manger will facilitate a public meeting outlining the achievements and reporting to the community on the activities of Council for the period July 2016 to December 2016. The budget review will also form part of the information and reporting session to the community. A time and date will be set shortly for this meeting with an open invitation to the community to attend.
In closing, Council welcomes feedback from the community and we strive for continuous improvement in everything we do. You can contact Council on regionalcouncil@nirc.gov.nf or by post to the General Manager, PO Box 95, Norfolk Island, 2899. Council’s Values are:
Integrity Communication Accountability Respect Excellence
Lotta Jackson
General Manger
17 February 2017
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Keeping the Community Informed
‘At Wednesday’s Council meeting I introduced two mayoral minutes, one relating to the Applied Laws Regime; the other relating to the Financial Assistance Grants from the Commonwealth. By way of interest a mayoral minute overrides all business on the agenda for a Council meeting, and the Mayor may move that the minute be adopted without the motion being seconded.’ Mayor Adams said.
MAYORAL MINUTE NO. 1 - APPLIED LAWS REGIME – IS THERE A BETTER WAY FORWARD FOR NORFOLK ISLAND?
On 25 October 2016 the Mayor wrote to our Federal Minister Senator the Hon Fiona Nash proposing ‘that a task force of Commonwealth officers and representatives from the Norfolk Island Council be established as a matter of priority to discuss what transitional arrangements are required and what impact assessment is to be undertaken to ensure the extension of NSW legislation, if it is to occur, that it is seamless and harmonises with the culture and way of life of the Norfolk Island people that has evolved over time independently of the culture and way of life of the people of New South Wales’.
The following motion was unanimously agreed on Wednesday by Council:
‘In acknowledgment that –
(1) The proposal to apply NSW legislation to Norfolk Island from 1 July 2018 is democratically deficient as the people of Norfolk Island do not have a vote in the NSW Parliament that makes those laws;
(2) The customs and traditions of the Norfolk Island people and the legislation applied to the Norfolk Island people from 1856 to 2015 evolved independently of the customs and laws of the people of New South Wales; and
(3) The current system of laws for Norfolk Island being made by the Commonwealth without the sanction of the Federal Parliament is also democratically deficient,
Council requests the Mayor to write formally to the Commonwealth requesting the Commonwealth prioritise the establishment of a task force of Commonwealth and Norfolk Island officers to consider the merits of modernising current Norfolk Island legislation with amendments modelled where appropriate on current NSW legislation, or of another jurisdiction if thought more appropriate, in preference to the wholesale application of NSW legislation to Norfolk Island as is currently proposed to take place on 1 July 2018.’
MAYORAL MINUTE NO. 2 – RECALCULATION OF THE FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE GRANT FOR NORFOLK ISLAND
Council unanimously agree the following motion:
Council unanimously agree the following motion:
‘That Council requests the Mayor to formally write to the Commonwealth requesting urgent re-calculation for the 2016/17 financial year and future financial years of the
current Financial Assistance Grant of $1,893,690 to Norfolk Island to be at least in line with the Western Australia State Grant Commission/Indian Ocean Territories modelling which awarded in 2015/16 $4,084,455 to Christmas Island. In addition to the calculations for Christmas Island, Norfolk Island Regional Council has the disabilities of running the Airport, Electricity and a lack of accessible seaport.’
’The Minister and I commenced discussions yesterday on a number of issues in a teleconference link up including these two motions of Council , ’the Mayor said, ‘and I will be writing further to the Minister on the issues discussed over the coming days. We both agreed the value of regular phone calls between us’.
Both Councillor Snell and Councillor McCoy moved motions which were unanimously agreed.
RELOCATION OF MURAL FROM OLD POST OFFICE TO AIRPORT TERMINAL FOR PUBLIC VIEWING (CR SNELL)
‘That the sesquicentenary mural currently displayed in the previous Norfolk Island Post Office be relocated to a suitable site within the Norfolk Island Airport Terminal.
‘That an explanation for the mural encompassing the following words be placed alongside the mural when relocated at the airport; the final wording and presentation to be agreed by the Mayor in consultation with the Council of Elders. Those words are –
“This mural was presented in 2006 to the Norfolk Island community to promote and acknowledge the historic and significant sesquicentenary anniversary of the settlement of Norfolk Island by the Pitcairn Islanders in 1856.
‘The Norfolk Island community has a distinctive culture and traditions that reflect its history. The resettlement of the Pitcairners to Norfolk Island in 1856, along with the establishment of a particular system of laws and administration, has resulted in a contemporary community that strongly values and celebrates its traditions and culture. Key aspects of this distinctive culture include the Norf’k language, a strong sense of independence and self-reliance, celebratory events, distinctive building styles, land use and farming practices, crafts, maritime skills, and expressed in many other ways. The mutiny, the relocation to Norfolk Island and the gift of Norfolk Island to the Pitcairners by Queen Victoria are important foundational stories….. To Pitcairn descendants, customs and language, cuisine, crafts and dancing provide an important foundation for Norfolk Islander identity. The language known as Norfuk or Norf’k is a blend of eighteenth-century English and Tahitian (and other elements), and is used alongside English on Norfolk Island.’ ”
(Australian Government, KAVHA Heritage Management Plan April 2016)
ROCK SUPPLY (CR McCOY)
‘That the Mayor advise Senator the Hon Fiona Nash MP, Minister for Local Government and Territories, of Council’s opposition to the importation into Norfolk Island of ready to use crushed rock product and request that every effort be made as a matter of urgency both to source rock locally to enable the completion on time of the Cascade Pier Project; and to ensure crushed rock product is available for future Council and community purposes’
Robin Adams
MAYOR
17 February 2017
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Ordinary Council Meeting held 15th February 2017
• The Quarterly progress review of the Operational Plan (October to December 2016) was presented to Council. The General Manager will arrange for a public meeting to inform the community of Council’s progress in the first six months and will also include the results of the December 2016 budget review. Meeting details will be advised in due course.
• Additional items will be added within the Terms of Reference for all Council Advisory Committees, giving greater clarity around procedures for these Committees.
• Council took note of the project report ‘Norfolk Island Economic Development Next Steps’. And resolved that if the current recruitment process for an Economic Development Coordinator position is unsuccessful, which is the second recruitment process to recruit for the position, an expression of interest will be called for a consultant to undertake the review and develop an Economic Development Strategy. The development of this strategy is an item in the Operational Plan 2016-2017 as it was identified in the Community Strategic Plan 2016-2026.
• The Quarterly Budget Review statement and recommendations contained within was adopted. The overall recommended adjustment to Council’s budget is a modest improvement of $73,000.
• The Investment Reports for December and January were received and noted.
• A report was presented to Council regarding the development and release of a request for tender to identify a suitably qualified respondent to investigate, and address the current technical issues facing electrical generation on Norfolk Island. This will assist Council to apply for grant funding to deliver a sustainable energy policy and a technically appropriate electrical generation model for the community. Due to the work undertaken by staff of the Council on this matter, Council resolved to dismantle the Sustainable Energy Advisory Committee.
• Council reviewed the Tourism Marketing function of Council and resolved to adopt a proposal by Unique Tourism Collection, which is an extension and amendment of the current contractual arrangements.
• Council received a total of 13 expressions of interest for the Code of Conduct Reviewers. Council resolved that following satisfactory referee checks Council appoints three nominated companies to be part of Council’s Code of Conduct Review panel should they be required.
The next Ordinary Meeting of Council is scheduled for 15 March 2017.
Lotta Jackson
GENERAL MANAGER
17 February 2017
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Upcoming Council Meeting and Broadcasting
The first Ordinary Council meeting for 2017 will be held on Wednesday 15 February at 2:00pm in the Council Chambers in the Bicentennial Complex. The public are very welcome to attend.
There are a number of matters on the Agenda for the meeting next week including: the Quarterly progress review of the Operational Plan (October to December 2016); Economic Development Report; December Quarterly Budget Review; a number of Council policies; report on the Heritage and Culture Advisory Committee Meeting; December 2016 and January 2017 Investment Reports; and a proposed Norfolk Island Electrical Investigation Tender.
The full details of all matters going to Council can be viewed at www.norfolkisland.gov.nf or in hardcopy at Customer Care in the Telecom Building or at the Library.
This meeting will be the first Council Meeting that will be broadcast live on 91.9FM. After each Council Meeting, there will be a re-broadcast of the meeting the following day, Thursday, at 9.30am also on 91.9FM. The usual radio programs will be available both on 89.9FM and 1566AM and we thank all of our sponsors for their continued support of Radio Norfolk.
Lotta Jackson
GENERAL MANAGER
10 February 2017
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Minimising Invasive Species
The Norfolk Island Regional Council Delivery Program 2016-2020 sets out the actions the Councillors have committed to undertake in their four-year term of office. ‘Support threatened species and minimise the presence of invasive species’ is a commitment at 2.4 of the delivery program.
Whilst there is much work to still do in this area, staff at the Norfolk Island Regional Council have been addressing this objective in the following areas at present.
Weed management has been focussed on Anson Bay Road and Middlegate Road with limited road side spraying, digging out weeds and slashing. Slashing work has also been undertaken at Ball Bay, Point Ross, Headstone and Two Chimneys Reserves.
Council has been addressing the feral cat problem in the reserves, 28 cats have been eradicated between 16 December 2016 and 31 January this year from various reserves, predominantly from 100 Acres, Headstone, Two Chimneys, Kingston and Point Hunter. Cat control makes a difference to the many seabirds on Norfolk Island.
I wish to thank the staff for their efforts in progressing towards Council’s objectives to ensure that Norfolk Island becomes the best small island in the world.
Lotta Jackson
GENERAL MANAGER
3 February 2017
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Keeping the Community Informed
‘As I mentioned on radio this week I spoke last Friday with Mr. Nick Hannan, adviser to Senator the Hon. Fiona Nash, on progress with Council’s request that the Commonwealth review the Norfolk Island Airport Act and Regulations to remove any barriers under the legislation to airlines seeking to operate regular public passenger transport services to Norfolk Island while ensuring that Council’s operating requirements are protected.’ Mayor Adams said, ‘In particular Council identified that the security deposit of $500,000 is a potential barrier to new air services wishing to fly to and from Norfolk Island; and could be seen as anti-competitive with large airlines having an advantage.
‘Council has also requested the Commonwealth agree to the provision of dedicated funds for destination marketing of Norfolk to the New Zealand market using the tourism funding model it currently has in place for Christmas Island.’ Mayor Adams said. The Mayor was advised on Thursday that a response from the Minister ‘is on its way’.
The Mayor and General Manager are being flown by Air New Zealand to attend a meeting with Air New Zealand in Sydney on Monday 6 March. ‘I will certainly be proposing during discussions that the Sydney meeting is a precursor to an on island meeting with local stakeholders as soon as possible’, the Mayor said.
‘My discussion with Advisor Hannan last Friday also covered a range of outstanding issues including a “better way forward” than applying NSW legislation to Norfolk; grant funding as of right; telecommunications; waste management; the Building Better Regions Fund; whether the transfer of the school, hospital and police station took place on just terms; and importation of crushed metal,’ Mayor Adams said.
Council had broad ranging discussions with Ms Brodtmann on 31 January with particular focus on the current applied legislation regime –and is there a better way forward; grant funding from the Commonwealth; pre-school and after school childcare; the inadequacy of the current financial assistance grant (FAG) awarded to Norfolk Island; support for our elderly to navigate the new Commonwealth bureaucracy; and funding for the Roads to Recovery and Black Spot programs.
ORDINARY COUNCIL MEETING
The next Ordinary Council Meeting will be held on Wednesday 15 February at 2pm. This will be the first meeting that will be broadcasted on 91.9FM.
Robin Adams
MAYOR
10 February 2017
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Airline Service Auckland/Norfolk
Council held an Extraordinary Meeting on Wednesday 18 January 2017 to discuss future direct flights between Norfolk Island and New Zealand. At the meeting Council agreed that the General Manager and the Mayor convey the motion passed at the meeting to Senator Nash. This we did last Friday and the thrust of the letter was –
That as a consequence of Air New Zealand ceasing its Auckland/Norfolk Service on 21 May this year, Council agreed that the Commonwealth be lobbied to review the requirements in the Norfolk Island Airport Act and Regulations to remove any barriers under the legislation to airlines seeking to operate regular public passenger transport services to Norfolk Island while ensuring that Council’s operating requirements are protected. Council also requested that we consult with the Commonwealth on provision of emergency funds for marketing to New Zealand to enable new carriers.
‘In arriving at its decision,’ Mayor Adams said, ‘Council was conscious of the Objectives in the Community Strategic Plan 2016 to 2026 adopted last year which require that Council investigate and identify barriers to economic growth and diversity; and to reduce red tape and barriers to entry of business and support new and innovative business proposals.’
In writing to Minister Nash Council identified that the current security deposit of $500,000 is a potential barrier to new air services wishing to fly to and from the Island; and that the deposit could also be seen to be anti-competitive with large airlines having an advantage.
‘On this basis,’ the Mayor said, ‘Council has asked the Commonwealth to review the Airport Act and Regulations for any barriers to encourage the continuity of flights between Norfolk and Auckland.’
‘In regards to the request for funds for marketing in New Zealand to enable new carriers the General Manager and I have posed to the Commonwealth for consideration and discussion that, just as the Commonwealth provides funding for tourism purposes to Christmas Island under an applied legislation regime similar to that in place on Norfolk, the Commonwealth considers the provision of dedicated funds for destination marketing of Norfolk Island to New Zealand.’ Mayor Adams said.
Mr. Richard Thomson, General Manager Networks and Ms Cath O’Brien, Manager Regulatory Affairs and Government & Industry Affairs for Air New Zealand will arrive on Sunday the 19 February for a meeting with Council on Monday the 20th of February. The purpose of their visit is to discuss the growth on the Norfolk Island – Brisbane and Sydney routes moving forward.
Robin Adams
MAYOR
25 January 2017
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ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
Council’s Operational Plan for this year includes the action to “review SGS ‘Norfolk Island Economic Development Strategy – July 2015’ and adopt strategy or modify and create an Economic Development Strategy”. To be able to address this action, and In lieu of being able to fill the position of Economic Development Coordinator when it was first advertised, Council engaged Suzie Coulston, Economic Development professional, on a one off basis to conduct a scan of the current status and potential economic development opportunities on the Island. Ms Coulston was on Island from 17 to 24 January 2017 and met with a diverse array of stakeholders: the Mayor, General Manager, Council of Elders, Team Leader Tourism, former Tourism General Manager, Employment Plus Manager, various Real Estates, Bank Managers, ATA, Chamber of Commerce, National Parks Manager and local Tourism and entrepreneurs personnel. There was also an opportunity to meet with The Administrator The Hon Gary Hardgrave on this matter.
Council’s vision to become the ‘best small island in the world’ was put to delegates and asked how we can make this happen. Economic development is an integral part of the social, economic and environmental sustainability and Council is dedicated to future growth for Norfolk Island. Aspects raised as part of the research and stakeholder engagement will assist in the development of actions for Norfolk Island’s economic future. A report of the results will be tabled at a future Council meeting.
I wish to thank all stakeholders who took time to speak with Ms Coulston during the week. Your contribution and continued dedication to the Island’s economic development are much appreciated.
Lotta Jackson
GENERAL MANAGER
25 January 2017
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Keeping the community informed - Extraordinary Meeting of Council on 18 January 2017
Under Council’s Code of Meeting Practice the Mayor is required to call an Extraordinary Meeting of Council if requested to do so by at least two Councillors.
‘On Tuesday 10 January Cr. McCoy and Cr. Snell provided me with a written request to convene an Extraordinary meeting of Council to allow Councillors to discuss future direct flights between Norfolk Island and New Zealand’, Mayor Adams said. ‘As we are all aware there is great concern in the community at the loss of the Air New Zealand Sunday service between Norfolk and Auckland from 21 May this year; and Council of course shares that concern.’
The Mayor reported the following during her radio chat on Wednesday –
‘As Councillors McCoy and Snell have stated in their request for me to convene the extraordinary meeting, tourism is Norfolk Island’s core industry and any reduction in visitor numbers will be detrimental to Norfolk’s fragile economy. As Council is not scheduled to have its next ordinary meeting until 16 February, it is essential that Council meet now to address how we can ensure as promptly as possible that there is a Norfolk/Auckland service operating post 21 May 2017. The Extraordinary meeting of Council is a first step in that process.’
‘I am convening the extraordinary meeting on Wednesday 18 January at 2 pm. The meeting will be open to the public and will be recorded.’ the Mayor said.
For the information of the community, you can listen to the December 2016 meeting, along with future Council meetings on the Council’s website – www.norfolkisland.gov.nf – click on “Council Meetings” and then click on “Council Meeting Recordings”. Starting with the ordinary Council meeting on 16 February 2017 Council meetings will also be broadcast live as well as recorded.
HERITAGE AND CULTURE ONLINE SURVEY – THIS IS YOUR CHANCE TO HAVE YOUR SAY!
The Community Strategic Plan 2016-2026 adopted by Council on 21 September 2016 requires Council to “develop a Heritage and Culture Strategy outlining how the Regional Council will preserve the heritage sites for which it is responsible, and how it will promote and support cultural expression” on Norfolk Island.
Council appointed a Heritage and Culture Advisory Committee to assist with the formulation of that Strategy and to undertake community consultation.
There are two ways in which you can have your say on how we can uphold, respect, promote and encourage customs, culture, histories and traditions of the Norfolk Island people.
You can make a written submission and mail it to regionalcouncil@nirc.gov.nf; OR
You can complete the online survey which is available at either of the following websites –
www.norfolkisland.gov.nf and click on the Heritage and Culture Survey link in the Quick Links Column; or
www.museums.gov.nf – and click on Give Feedback in the pop-up box;
OR you can do both but please note –
THE CLOSING DATE FOR SUBMISSIONS AND COMPLETION OF THE SURVEY IS 4 PM ON TUESDAY 24 JANUARY 2017 AND WE ARE WAITING TO HEAR FROM YOU.
Robin Adams
Mayor
11 January 2017
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Waste Management Update
Members of the community may have noticed a slight change to the drop off bays at the Waste Management Centre (WMC). As a means to improve operational procedures in the centre we have removed the wheelie bins and replaced them with solid partitions.
This change alleviates double handling of waste, as bins were emptied manually onto the ground and then the bobcat was used to pick it up to take it for processing. This was not only physically challenging but also time consuming and inefficient.
These partitions will mean that the sorted waste will be put directly onto the ground. As a result, cans for example, can be taken directly to the crusher for processing without the cumbersome procedure of tipping over bins. The extra time saved will also allow for processing of waste streams such as tyres, glass and cans for recycling.
In order for this system to work we do need the assistance from the public. Rubbish must be sorted before it is placed into the shoots. The staff do not have the time or resources to sort the communities waste. It is an offense under the Waste Management Act 2003 (NI) to not comply with instructions and sort your rubbish. Warning letters and fines will be issued to persons who continue to disregard these instructions.
The shoots will be separated into aluminium cans, steel cans, glass and general household waste. Until a more appropriate method of processing plastic and cardboard has been developed it can also be disposed of along with the general household waste. If you are bringing any other waste stream into the Centre please ask the staff where they would like you to put it.
The management of waste has been an ongoing issue on the island and we need the cooperation of the whole community to improve the procedure.
New Waste Management Trucks
The community may have seen the two new Izusu trucks that have been purchased for the WMC. Despite their small stature they have proven to be a huge improvement to the processing of waste.
Over the busy Christmas period the new trucks have kept up with the large volumes of waste and have shown to be money well spent. The smaller size of the trucks has created more space in the shed allowing more room to manoeuvre the machinery. The picture below shows the two new trucks on the left and right.
Lastly, if you have a bright idea on how to minimise waste let us know by emailing Council at regionalcouncil@nirc.gov.nf or send a letter addressed to the General Manger, PO Box 95, Norfolk Island, 2899.
Lotta Jackson
GENERAL MANAGER
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21 December Council Meeting
The Council Meeting held on 21 December 2016 contained a number of important matters that were progressed by Council. This media release will cover a number of those items, to read all matters addressed by Council the Minutes can be viewed at www.norfolkisland.gov.nf or in hardcopy at Customer Care in the Norfolk Telecom Building.
A requirement of the Integrated Planning and Reporting Framework for the Norfolk Island Regional Council is to have a Resourcing Strategy. The Resourcing Strategy comprises three separate but linked documents – Long Term Financial Plan, Workforce Plan and Asset Management Plans. All three documents went to Council at the December meeting and were adopted.
The resourcing documents are designed to focus on ‘how’ Council will achieve objectives of the Delivery Program, which is the elected Members commitments throughout their four-year term. The resourcing documents also forecast both the financial position and the upcoming renewal of assets into the future. All these planning documents provide Council with a solid platform to progress into the future.
The long term financial plan provides a framework in which a Council can assess its revenue building capacity to meet activities and service levels outlined in the Community Strategic Plan. The Long Term Financial Plan includes projected income and expenditure, balance sheet, cash flow statement, financial modelling for different scenarios and methods of monitoring financial performance.
Asset Management Plans for Buildings, Fleet, Infrastructure and Roads were adopted by Council. The preparation of Asset Management Plans for Council is a staged process, the optimum plans will be achieved after additional stages of development. Subsequent reviews of the adopted plans will be carried out in the future.
The Workforce Management Plan identifies the human resources required to support the Delivery Program and to outline staff engagement, learning and development and other matters related to Council being a responsible employer. The plan ensures that Council’s workforce is appropriate, productive, skilled and diverse.
These documents can be viewed in the December Council Agenda at http://www.norfolkisland.gov.nf/NIRC_Council_Meetings/Agendas/
The December Council meeting was recorded and the audio is available on www.norfolkisland.gov.nf under the ‘Council Meetings’ link. From the February 2017 Council Meeting not only will the recordings of all of the Council meetings continue to be available on Council’s website, they will also be broadcast live over Radio Norfolk and re-broadcasted.
Lotta Jackson General Manager
23 December 2016
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21 December Council Meeting
The Council Meeting held on 21 December 2016 contained a number of important matters that were progressed by Council. This media release will cover a number of those items, to read all matters addressed by Council the Minutes can be viewed at www.norfolkisland.gov.nf or in hardcopy at Customer Care in the Norfolk Telecom Building.
A requirement of the Integrated Planning and Reporting Framework for the Norfolk Island Regional Council is to have a Resourcing Strategy. The Resourcing Strategy comprises three separate but linked documents – Long Term Financial Plan, Workforce Plan and Asset Management Plans. All three documents went to Council at the December meeting and were adopted.
The resourcing documents are designed to focus on ‘how’ Council will achieve objectives of the Delivery Program, which is the elected Members commitments throughout their four-year term. The resourcing documents also forecast both the financial position and the upcoming renewal of assets into the future. All these planning documents provide Council with a solid platform to progress into the future.
The long term financial plan provides a framework in which a Council can assess its revenue building capacity to meet activities and service levels outlined in the Community Strategic Plan. The Long Term Financial Plan includes projected income and expenditure, balance sheet, cash flow statement, financial modelling for different scenarios and methods of monitoring financial performance.
Asset Management Plans for Buildings, Fleet, Infrastructure and Roads were adopted by Council. The preparation of Asset Management Plans for Council is a staged process, the optimum plans will be achieved after additional stages of development. Subsequent reviews of the adopted plans will be carried out in the future.
The Workforce Management Plan identifies the human resources required to support the Delivery Program and to outline staff engagement, learning and development and other matters related to Council being a responsible employer. The plan ensures that Council’s workforce is appropriate, productive, skilled and diverse.
These documents can be viewed in the December Council Agenda at http://www.norfolkisland.gov.nf/NIRC_Council_Meetings/Agendas/
The December Council meeting was recorded and the audio is available on www.norfolkisland.gov.nf under the ‘Council Meetings’ link. From the February 2017 Council Meeting not only will the recordings of all of the Council meetings continue to be available on Council’s website, they will also be broadcast live over Radio Norfolk and re-broadcasted.
Lotta Jackson General Manager
23 December 2016
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Best Wishes for Christmas and the New Year
I know the team at Government House and the Office of the Administrator join me in extending these warm wishes.
2016 has been a year of significant change for Norfolk Island with the new governance arrangements taking effect from 1 July. The Australian Government and my office have been working hard to ensure the new essential services and support arrangements are being delivered effectively and all members of the Norfolk Island community are receiving the services they need. 2017 will see further evidence of our continued work in implementing the reforms and we welcome your constructive feedback as we progress this work.
I would like to extend my thanks to staff at the Norfolk Island Health and Residential Aged Care Service, the Norfolk Island Central School, the Australian Government service providers and the Norfolk Island Regional Council, and also the officers of the Norfolk Island Police Force for their efforts in 2016 in supporting the community.
I would also like to recognise all of the volunteers who contribute through various statutory roles and the many community organisations for the tireless work they put into assisting those in need and in supporting valuable community initiatives.
My office will be close for the festive season at midday Friday 23 December 2016 and will reopen on Tuesday 3 January 2017.
The Hon Gary Hardgrave
22 December 2016
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Media Release – Expressions of Interest for Appointment to Norfolk Island Liquor Licensing Board
Interested persons should familiarise themselves with the Liquor Act 2005 which can be accessed via the following link:
http://norfolkisland.gov.nf/legislation/Norfolk_Island_Legislation/Norfolk%20Island
%20Legislation%20Pre%2017%20June%202015/ConsolidatedActs/
Appointments will run to 30 June 2017. Persons wishing to express an interest should complete the nomination and personal interests/conflicts of interests
declaration forms provided on the Norfolk Island Regional Council website at:
http://www.norfolkisland.gov.nf/forms/StatutoryBoardsCommittees/.
Completed forms should be provided to the Office of the Administrator by 5.00pm, Friday 13 January 2017. These can be scanned and emailed to office.administrator@infrastructure.gov.au or returned in person to the office located in the New Military Barracks, Kingston.
The Hon Gary Hardgrave
22 December 2016
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Drivers Licences
The community are reminded that as part of the Council Christmas Closure the Registry Office will be closed from Monday 26 December 2016 until Monday 2 January 2017 (inclusive). The holders of Norfolk Island drivers licences are encouraged to check their licence expiry date and if required, to renew their licence outside of the above dates.
The Registry Office is located in the Regional Council Offices, Quality Row, Kingston and is open Monday to Friday 8:00am to 4:30pm outside of the above closure dates.
Enquiries can be made to the Customer Care Team free call 0100 or customercare@nirc.gov.nf.
Lotta Jackson
General Manager,
Norfolk Island Regional Council
15 December
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Council overview of Senator Nash's visit
Arriving to the island on Sunday 11 December and departing Monday 12 December, the Hon Senator Fiona Nash with her team of Advisers had a very busy schedule of meetings.
The Norfolk Island Regional Council management was pleased to attend the community gathering at Munna’s on Sunday and for staff to be involved in a number of meetings which included: a range of matters with the Mayor and Councillors; telecommunications; grant funding; waste management; sustainable energy; health and social welfare; tourism; and the childcare industry. These are key areas for Norfolk Island and address matters that are in Council’s Operational Plan such as to advocate and obtain clarity on childcare accreditation and the critical issue of waste reform with a community focus on reducing waste and the review of Telecom internet, landline and mobile service provision.
‘Having direct access to the Minister and key Ministerial and Departmental staff to provide firsthand information and advice is invaluable to Council. I thank the Minister for making the time to visit Norfolk Island and Council looks forward to continuing a strong and productive relationship with the Minister, her staff and the Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development’, Ms Lotta Jackson said.
Lotta Jackson
General Manager,
Norfolk Island Regional Council
16 December 2016
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Accrual of Interest on Overdue Rates
Under the Local Government Act 1993 (NSW)(NI) interest is applied to outstanding rate levies which remain unpaid after they become due and payable. Interest is accrued on a daily basis at a rate of 8 percent per annum.
The first rates instalment was due on 30 November 2016. Please be informed that if the first instalment has not been paid or the entire levy paid in full on or before that date, interest will be accruing. Land holders on Norfolk Island are therefore encouraged to pay any overdue rate levies as soon as possible to avoid further interest charges. Note that Council may assist with providing a payment plan for individuals facing financial hardship.
Enquiries can be made to the Customer Care Team free call 0100 or customercare@nirc.gov.nf.
Lotta Jackson
General Manager, Norfolk Island Regional Council
16 December 2016
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KEEPING THE COMMUNITY INFORMED VISIT OF FEDERAL MINISTER SENATOR THE HON FIONA NASH MP
“As I said on radio on Wednesday I am confident that the Minister enjoyed the opportunity on Sunday afternoon to experience firsthand some of our culture and traditions at the community event at Munna’s.’ Mayor Adams said. ‘The sun was shining, there was a gentle breeze to cool us down and the dancing of our Baunti Byuutis was stunning with the ocean and Philip Island as their backdrop. Many took the opportunity to speak with the Minister and it looked like there were some intense conversations happening. Again on behalf of the Council I extend sincere thanks to all who played a part in making the community event the success that it was; in particular to the Lions Club who were kept busy serving refreshments to accompany the tasty wetls provided.’
Meetings with Council and community groups on the Monday started at 8 am (see last week’s press for detail). I am confident that attendees would agree with me that the Minister was genuine in wanting to know about people’s concerns and demonstrated a willingness to continue to work with the various groups to achieve, where possible, the outcomes they were seeking. I encourage the groups who met with the Minister to continue to communicate with her through emails on the issues they raised if they require more information or have more they want to share with her. Her email contact is Senator.Nash@aph.gov.au.
The Minister is keen to continue discussions with Council by teleconference and the General Manager is already investigating how that can be achieved at the Council Chambers. I look forward to continuing dialogue with Minister Nash.
COMMUNITY CONSULTATION TOWARDS THE DEVELOPMENT OF OUR HERITAGE AND CULTURE STRATEGIC PLAN
A Heritage and Culture Advisory Committee was recently established by Council and the terms of reference include supporting the development of a Heritage and Culture Strategy.
The Community Strategic Plan 2016-2026 adopted by Council in September speaks of us as being – A proud, diverse and inclusive community and we showcase our unique histories, cultures and people with the aim that Cultural expression is maintained and built heritage is protected.
The strategy will show how the Regional Council will preserve the heritage sites for which it is responsible, and how it will promote and support cultural expression. The Community Strategic Plan identifies people and organisations that can help us achieve that goal:
‘The Committee acknowledges the importance of the Heritage and Culture Strategy meeting community endorsed goals and standards; and that the community has ownership of the strategy’, Mayor Adams said. ‘To this end the Committee will be calling for public submissions, and consulting with individuals and local organisations. The timeline for completion of the strategy is June next year so there’s quite a bit of work to be undertaken to meet that timeline.’
MAYORS’ WEEKEND SEMINAR 3-4 December 2016
The Mayor’s weekend seminar I attended in Sydney on 3-4 December was organised by the LGNSW (Local Government NSW Association) which is the peak industry association representing interests of NSW general purpose councils, special purpose councils, and the NSW Aboriginal Land Council. Norfolk Island is an associate member of the association. The association’s objective is to strengthen and protect an effective, democratic system of Local Government g and advocating on behalf of member councils.
‘My attendance at the weekend seminar” Mayor Adams said, ‘gave me the opportunity to network and set up ongoing contact with other Mayors who attended from regional and rural NSW. LGNSW offers a mayoral mentoring service and arrangements are being made for me to access that service.’
‘As I said on radio last Wednesday I found the Sunday afternoon session of great value. The topic being “The working relationship between the Mayor and General Manager which is one of the most critical relationships in local government’ I could not help but chuckle at the introduction to the session - Failure is unacceptable: So Buckle up and Enjoy the journey’. Key to the success of the relationship between the Mayor and the GM is ideally that they share a common and simple goal – they both want to do a good job and they both want to be associated with a successful Council and a prosperous community. I am confident that the GM Lotta Jackson and I share that common goal’, Mayor Adams said.
“Norfolk Island: The Best Small Island in the World”
Cr. Robin Adams
Mayor
16 December 2016
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Council Meeting - 21st December
The
next Ordinary Council Meeting is scheduled for Wednesday 21 December 2016. This is the last Council meeting for 2016 and
the next Ordinary Council meeting will be held on
15 February 2017. We welcome the community to attend and listen to the proceedings.
Much
work has been undertaken since the last meeting and the items on the Agenda for
next Wednesday convey some of that work and include the following for
consideration by Council:
Reports
from the Rock Feed Source, Heritage and Culture, Waste Management, Public
Reserves and Tourism Advisory Committees; Equal Employment Opportunity
Management Plan; Community Donations; Workforce Management Plan 2016-2020; Code
of Conduct Reviewers; Audit Committee Meeting; a number of policies being put
forward for adoption; November 2016 Investment Report; Rates Assessment; Long
Term Financial Plan 2017-2026; Asset Management Plans; and the Digitising of
Planning Records.
The
full Agenda including the reports to Council are at www.norfolkisland.gov.nf or available to view in hardcopy at the Library or Customer
Care in the Telecom Building.
Lotta Jackson
General Manager, Norfolk Island Regional Council
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Merry Christmas by Norfolk Island Regional Council
Senator Nash Visit
The Norfolk Island Regional Council is looking forward to welcoming Senator the Hon Fiona Nash to Norfolk Island this weekend.
I am pleased for the community to be able to join the Senator at Munna’s for a public gathering on Sunday at 3:30pm. It is a great opportunity for the community to meet with the Senator who will be escorted by the Mayor,’ Ms Lotta Jackson said, ‘In addition, we are also looking forward to meetings with the Senator to discuss key issues facing Norfolk Island and how we can work collaboratively together to ensure excellent outcomes for this community’.
One such discussion will be on the $297.7 million Building Better Regions Funding that Senator Nash announced on 23 November 2016. There are two streams in the fund – Infrastructure Projects and Community Investments. Further information can be read from the Senator’s media release at this link
http://minister.infrastructure.gov.au/nash/releases/2016/November/fn087_2016.aspx
A quote from the Senator’s media release is provided below:
The Community Investments Stream might help expand a local festival, attract a theatre production or major sporting event to the region to bring more visitors to the town, or it might be leadership or business training for young locals.
…
Projects in remote and very remote areas will receive a loading on their project score, and also will not need to produce 1:1 funding. The Government will provide up to 75 per cent of the investment for remote and very remote projects.
Also, projects will now be assessed against projects of similar size, so small community projects are not competing against huge projects worth tens of millions, for example.
Lotta Jackson
General Manager, Norfolk Island Regional Council
9 December 2016
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Work Experience
The Norfolk Island Regional Council had the pleasure of four Year 10 Norfolk Island Central School Students for work experience during the last two weeks.
Stephanie Snell experienced Customer Care, Karla Finch spent time in Planning, Isabelle Ward in Law and Registry/Courts and David Kytola in Information Technology.
Council staff enjoyed their time with the students and it was pleasing to hear comments about their enthusiasm, their willingness to learn and being pleasures to work with. It’s so encouraging to see not only Council, but so many businesses on the island, supporting the school and students by taking the time to allow the children to spend time and learn in their businesses. These qualities align with the Strategic Directions in the Community Strategic Plan: ‘A caring community’ and
‘A successful and innovative community’, Ms Lotta Jackson said.Karla focussed on the planning aspects of the Cascade Jetty upgrade from project development, design, approvals, site establishment and the commencement of construction which culminated in a construction site visit escorted by Jarrod O’Reilly, Site Superintendent (see photo). Karla also assisted in taking water samples at hotels as part of the island wide water quality assessment.
David’s experience included the assembling of a PC from scratch, installing a switch on an IT server rack and he undertook research on PC components. Stephanie provided Directory Assistance to callers, reported faults for customers, issued new SIM cards, filing and created a beautiful Christmas display.
Isabelle researched legislation and legal text pertaining to Norfolk Island, drafted legal correspondence, reviewed a historic case file and presented findings as well as touring the Court House and Registry Courts & Lands Office.
Lotta Jackson
General Manager, Norfolk Island Regional Council
9 December 2016
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Illegal Downloads
Over the last few months Norfolk Telecom has been contacted several times by IP Echelon, a law firm acting on behalf of Paramount Pictures Corporation and informed us that there have been video files illegally downloaded by users on our network. As an Internet Service Provider (ISP), Norfolk Telecom has an obligation to ensure that any customer that illegally downloads any video files in breach of copyright laws is warned about their actions being identified. Customers are hereby warned, relevant to the Privacy Act 1988 (CTH) and our Privacy Statement issued from time to time, that any information that we may hold which may be evidence of an illegal act may be disclosed to the relevant copyright owner and/or to any law enforcement agency for the purpose of possible legal proceedings against the alleged offender.
Norfolk Telecom advises that anyone who illegally downloads video files off the internet is potentially at risk of fines and/or court proceedings. Any owners of computers the IP address of which may be identified as being used for any illegal act should ensure that they are aware of who is using their computers and the purpose for which the computer is being used.
This is a reminder that if you do or allow someone else to use your computer to do the wrong thing, then you could be faced with the embarrassment of an official call or a visit regarding such alleged illegal actions.
All customers of Norfolk Telecom and computer users in Norfolk Island generally are requested to please refrain from downloading illegal copies of movies. Norfolk Telecom accepts no liability whatsoever for any illegal actions done on its internet network at any time.
Blake Hunton, Manager – Commercial and Contracted Services
Lotta Jackson
General Manager, Norfolk Island Regional Council
9 December 2016
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CHILD AND FAMILY WELLBEING Christmas: Time for a Family Stocktake
A core task within the Child Welfare Officer role is working with families, not only in times of crisis but also in the good times. It’s easy to forget that families are living and ever-changing social structures that need just as much attention and maintenance as do the equipment we use every day. In fact, making sure our families are running smoothly is even more important than the objects around us!
As we approach Christmas, it’s worth taking a few moments to think about your family and how well it’s travelling. Is it in the best shape possible, or could it be due for a bit of repair work?
Measuring the inner workings of families is important whenever we have to investigate problems with children. This is because children are more affected by the “family climate” than most people think. When relations between family members are strained, kids are often overlooked because the grown-ups are so focused on their own emotions, especially if the adult relationships are seriously distressed. We assume the kids don’t know what’s going on, and we forget that even though they might not be old enough to make sense of it, they are in fact affected by the feelings their parents are having.
Typically, this results in “acting out” behaviour – refusing to eat, tantrums, or aggressive behaviours towards other children. Acting out is the child’s way to defuse a build-up of intense negative emotions, and in the case of families in crisis can be the only way they have to express fear, insecurity, or confusion. Acting out in older children and teens can include self-harming, bullying, injuring animals or smaller children, or sexually inappropriate behaviour. No matter the age of the child or young person, the underlying reason is the same – a cry for help.
One tool we use to measure the inner workings of families is the Family Environment Scale. The FES measures 10 areas of family functioning in three major categories:
- Relationship dimensions, which includes how strongly committed each member is to the family and how much support they provide for one another, how much encouragement is given to openly express their feelings, and how much conflict is being expressed among family members.
- Personal Growth dimensions, which includes how much family members are allowed to be assertive, self-sufficient and make their own decisions; how much each family member’s activities are cast into an achievement versus a competitive framework; how much interest the family takes in cultural, political, social and recreational activities; and how strongly the family emphasises ethical and religious issues and values.
- System Maintenance dimensions, which measure how much energy is put into family activities and sharing responsibilities, and how much set rules are used to run the family.
Of course there’s no “right” or “wrong” way to manage a family, but there are healthy ways and not-so-healthy ways, and we know this from collecting stories from people who have grown up in families that worked well, and those who grew up in families that weren’t working well. In families that work well, there’s a good balance between spending high quality time together as well as respecting each other’s individuality, family members feel comfortable sharing their feelings and thoughts even if those are different from others, there’s a strong sense of identity that comes with being part of the “we” rather than the “I”, conflicts are managed constructively to work towards a fair resolution, no one person is seen to have more power than any other person, and rifts between family members are healed quickly.
Taking the time to run a maintenance check on your family is one of the best investments you’ll ever make to happiness, success and growth. So during the coming holiday season when your family gathers to celebrate, set aside some time for a talk about how well the family is functioning. What does each person most value about this family? What conflicts or issues haven’t been resolved, and how could you work together to fix them? Could you be giving each other’s personal accomplishments more attention or encouraging each other better? How would you like the family to be in ten years’ time? Make Christmas a time to celebrate all the family’s strengths, and repair the rough bits so next year is the best yet.
Kate Lemerle, Child Welfare Officer - kate.lemerle@nirc.gov.nf
Lotta Jackson
General Manager, Norfolk Island Regional Council
9 December 2016
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Council Christmas Closure
A resolution was made at the October 2016 Ordinary Council Meeting that the Council Offices would close during the three days between Christmas and New Year each year, which is a quiet time for most of Council business.
The arrangements allow Council to have, as far as possible, a period of shutdown with a holiday break for many of its employees by having skeleton staff over the three working days of the Christmas/New Year period thus allowing essential services to remain open.
Facilities remaining open include Telecom, Customer Care, Waste Management Centre, Liquor Bond, Norfolk Island Museum, Norfolk Island Research Centre and the Library. Emergency contacts are: Telecom/Customer Care 22244; Executive Management 52123; Sewerage 50328; and Electricity 50230 or 50212.
Further information on Council opening hours during the Christmas/New Year period can be found in all December 2016 issued Government Gazettes on www.norfolkisland.gov.nf.
Lotta Jackson
General Manager, Norfolk Island Regional Council
9 December 2016
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Visit of Federal Minister Senator the Hon Fiona Nash MP
Elsewhere in the local press is a media release from Minister Nash’s office about her forthcoming visit so I will just focus on the open invitation extended to the community event to be co-hosted by the Administrator and myself this Sunday afternoon, 11 December from 3.30 to 5:00pm. The venue is ‘Munna’s by Slaughter Bay’ where two marquis have been erected to provide some shade and there will be plenty of chairs. Thank you to the Lions Club who will be assisting with the provision of afternoon tea - free tea, coffee and juice and light snacks. My thanks also to Council’s Works Team for their assistance in ‘readying’ Munna’s for the event.
I look forward on behalf of the Norfolk Island community to welcoming Minister Nash back to Norfolk. She promised to return when she came in September and now that Parliament has risen she is able to honour that commitment.
Formalities will be kept to a minimum as the purpose of the event is for Minister Nash to mingle with, and speak to the community in an informal setting. However I anticipate that the Minister will say a few words.
I thank the Council of Elders for the role they are playing in making the event a memorable one for the Minister. Council President Mr Albert Buffett will lead us in The Prayer of John Adams and introduce the Baunti Byuutis and the Norfolk Island Ukulele band, both of whom will provide us with a short bracket of traditional island dancing and music.
I encourage the community to take the opportunity to meet the Minister on Sunday.
The Minister has a very full schedule of meetings on Monday the 12th starting at 8 am with a meeting with the Regional Council. The agenda is below. Meetings will then follow with representatives from the following community groups –
Norfolk Island People for Democracy (President Chris Magri and Lisle Snell)
Morning tea with health and social welfare representatives to discuss Norfolk Island health and human well-being matters
Council of Elders
Working lunch to discuss the future of tourism as a basis of economic development for Norfolk Island with ATA, N.I. Chamber of Commerce & other stakeholders
Child care industry representatives to discuss child care industry arrangements on Norfolk Island.
The Minister will discuss economic development opportunities on Norfolk on Radio Norfolk on Monday at 10.55 am.
AGENDA FOR MEETING OF COUNCIL WITH MINISTER NASH
The agenda for Council’s meeting with the Minister includes the following matters:
Building Better Regions Fund (Minister Nash)
o Overview of the program
Telecommunications reform (Minister Nash/Mayor)
o Review of Norfolk Telecom
o Extension of the Telecommunications Act 1997
o NBN and the roll out of Sky Muster services
Financial Assistance Grants
Waste management
Sustainable energy
MAYOR VISITS LISMORE WASTE MANAGEMENT FACILITY
I am indebted to the General Manager of Lismore Council, Mr Gary Murphy and their Manager Commercial Services Mr Phil Klepzig for the time given to me to explore all facets of their Waste Facility which is ‘state of the art’. It was clear to me at the end of the visit that waste is a universal problem that we all share; but it is the economy of scale – small population and remoteness – that are just some of the challenges for us to overcome. Of course with the right community attitude to waste disposal these can also be used to our advantage. I include the following extracts from my letter of thanks sent yesterday to Gary Murphy–
“I found your Waste Management Centre both inspiring and depressing; inspiring because of the professional and effective manner in which you deal with waste and how all the staff appear to have job satisfaction; depressing because it clearly demonstrates the challenges that we, a small and isolated community, through tyranny of distance and economy of scale, face without the infrastructure and equipment to resolve our problems in the short term.
“However, with the release last month of the Building Better Regions Fund (BBRF) Norfolk Island will be very proactive in putting up a case for assistance to address our difficulties. We have our Federal Minister Senator the Hon Fiona Nash visiting next Sunday/Monday and the BBRF is on the agenda for discussion with Council.”
I look forward to sharing the Lismore experience with Council’s Waste Management Advisory Committee and I encourage readers to visit the Lismore/Northern Rivers Waste Management facility website
http://www.northernriverswaste.com.au/cp_themes/default/home.asp#
The photo is yours truly, the General Manager Gary Murphy (left) and Manager Commercial Services Phil Klepzig in the foreground. We are standing beside a bin of clean plastic bags/wrapping that will be bailed up and sent for recycling. In the back ground is the machinery which melts down polystyrene into blocks the size of a large car battery for shipment to Korea!
“Norfolk Island: The Best Small Island in the World”
Cr. Robin Adams Mayor 9 December 2016
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CHILD AND FAMILY WELLBEING - Early Education Services for Norfolk Island
A key indicator of any healthy community is the priority given to the young. Early education
programs give children the best chance to learn critical socio-emotional skills, and structured
programs that are appropriately sequenced, active, focused, and explicit (SAFE) provide the
foundation for cognitive development throughout life.
This is now considered so important that the World Health Organisation (WHO) has just released its
“Global Strategy for Women’s, Children’s and Adolescents’ Health (2016–2030)”. The global strategy
provides a roadmap for helping children achieve their potential across all settings, including
promoting survival (ending preventable deaths); thriving (ensuring the best possible health and wellbeing
outcomes); and transforming environments that support these outcomes.
The strategy also recognises basic human rights embedded in the United Nations Convention on the
Rights of the Child, including governments’ responsibility for helping parents with the raising of their
children, especially if the child’s parents work; the right of all children to develop their personality,
talents and abilities to the full; and the right of all children to relax, play and join in a wide range of
cultural and artistic activities.
Acknowledging this, governments and local councils around the world have already taken leadership
by including children’s services in their service models, as well as putting in place community
development strategies that promote the wellbeing of children and families. Practical examples
include providing affordable pre-school centres with accredited early education programs; offering
a range of childcare options such as Family Day Care, E-Kindy, and playgroups; supporting working
families with before-and-after-school and vacation care services; and delivering high-quality
education programs to build their parenting skills (recognising that most parents don’t do a degree
in parenting before their kids arrive!) as well as supporting families in times of crisis.
What are we doing on Norfolk Island?
Over the past few weeks, we’ve been undertaking a “gaps analysis” to find out how the Norfolk
Island Regional Council can work with the community to build a world-class framework for early
childhood services here. We currently have available three options for families with pre-schoolers –
Little House and Minischool that cater for the youngest children, and Banyan Park that caters for the
3-5 year olds. All have limited capacity simply due to the size of their buildings and staffing, and are
therefore restricted to hours of operation and the types of services they can offer. All three face the
challenge of becoming accredited in the future so they meet the Australian National Quality
Framework (NQF) that applies to most preschools/kindergartens, family day care, and outside school
hours care in Australia. If they are going to continue running in the long term, accreditation is
necessary so their educational programs meet national standards as approved learning curricula,
and thus give parents access to government-subsidised childcare rebates. However, we also need to
consider other important enabling factors such as providing local school leavers with supported
training to pursue early childhood education as a career pathway, and linking with health services to
support our children with special needs from the earliest age possible.
The ‘Vision’ for what would be ideal that’s emerging is a multi-purpose early education centre would
provide a hub for all services to children from birth through to the end of primary school. This centre
would provide a physical location from which a range of services could be provided – child care for
infants and toddlers including family-based casual care, structured pre-school programs for the 3-
5’s, before-and-after school care for primary school-aged children, vacation activity programs,
specialised early intervention services for kids with special needs including suitable rooms for visiting
specialists, and crisis care services for emergencies. By developing a model of “best practice” in
community-based early childhood services, we can also become a training centre for early childhood
educators interested in working in remote island communities.
How can YOU help?
The “gaps analysis” still has a bit more work and this is where we really need the community’s help.
Shortly, every family will receive a survey that will help us get an idea of the types of services needed
to provide a seamless early childhood service for Norfolk Island and to get an idea of what you – the
community- wants. We need the community to help steer us towards the vision, especially in
relation to meeting national accreditation standards, raising the funds needed to get there, and
pitching in with practical help when it’s needed. Whether you have specialised skills or experience,
or whether your service club wants to adopt this project, every little bit will help.
As a start…please complete the survey when you receive it and drop it in the boxes you’ll see
about the place. All completed surveys will be absolutely confidential so please be honest and
share your ideas, suggestions and offers to help.
Kate Lemerle, Child Welfare Officer - kate.lemerle@nirc.gov.nf
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Telecom Customers
Norfolk Telecom’s mail servers experienced a fault at 9.15am Friday morning which has effected access to email accounts hosted on the Telecom email server. Local IT technicians are working with support providers in New Zealand and the USA to rectify the issue. We apologise for any inconvenience caused and hope to restore services to normal as soon as possible.
Bruce Taylor
Group Manager - Services Norfolk Island Regional Council
25 November 2016
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KEEPING THE COMMUNITY INFORMED MAYORS’ WEEKEND SEMINAR SYDNEY 3-4 DECEMBER 2016
Council has agreed that I attend the Mayor’s Weekend Seminar in Sydney 3-4 December. This Seminar offers the opportunity for me to participate in discussions and training for Mayors across NSW; to network with other Mayors and to develop a greater understanding of the role of the Mayor.
Council has also agreed that I visit the Ballina and Lismore Waste Management Centres
where I can experience firsthand the Waste Management operations of these Councils and talk with
the General Managers and Mayors about their operations.
Readers might find the following overview of the Seminar of interest.
“Mayors are the face of local government. The role is an important and demanding one. People
expect mayors to provide the leadership required for councils to work effectively and address
community priorities. The 2013 report of the Independent Local Government Review Panel
highlighted the need to clarify the responsibilities of mayors and to ensure they have the skills and
support required.
“Local government in NSW now faces the prospect of sweeping reforms: amalgamations, new
arrangements for strategic planning and regional cooperation, plus a far-reaching review of the Local
Government Act (1993). At the same time, communities are experiencing the impact of quickening
economic and social change, as well as intense development pressures in our major towns and cities.
“These challenges require fresh thinking and sound local leadership. The pressures on mayors can
only increase.
“The Mayors’ Weekend Seminar offers practical assistance for NSW mayors, deputy mayors and
aspiring mayors to work through the particular demands of the mayoral role. The program will
explore some of the key challenges facing councils and communities. All the content is based on realworld
experiences. It draws on recent reviews of local government in NSW, South Australia and New
Zealand.”
The two-day program will include short presentations, expert panellists and ample time for
roundtable discussion. I am particularly interested in the following sessions on Day 2.
Session 1 - The mayor as council leader. How should mayors go about ensuring good governance and
the effective performance of the political arm of their council?
Session 2 - The mayor and general manager.
What are the essential ingredients in making this
important relationship a successful one?
Session 3 - What are the most important elements of the role and what additional knowledge, skills
and support are needed to do the mayors’ job effectively?
I look forward to reporting on my participation at the Seminar and the visits to Ballina and Lismore
Waste Management Centres on my return home on 5 December 2016.
“Norfolk Island: The Best Small Island in the World”
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Delivery Program 2016 - 2020
The Norfolk Island Regional Council, at their 19 October 2016 meeting, resolved to place the Council’s Delivery Program 2016 – 2020 on public exhibition for 28 days and if no submissions were received the Delivery Program would be adopted.
No public submissions were received; therefore the Delivery Program is now adopted. The Delivery
Program is an important component of the Integrated Planning and Reporting framework and
outlines the elected representatives’ commitments to the Norfolk Island community during their
four-year term of office.
The adopted Delivery Program can be viewed under Quick Links on www.norfolkisland.gov.nf.
Lotta Jackson
General Manager Norfolk Island Regional Council
24 November 2016
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CHILD AND FAMILY WELLBEING - Keeping Kids Safe Over Summer Holidays
With school having finished for our Year 12’s and the end of the year almost there for all the others, it’s time to think about summer safety. Families usually have response plans in place for emergencies such as a fire or sudden illness and accidents. We think about keeping our important documents safe…but how much time and preparation do we put into protecting our kids from the risks they face once school is over? Like many parents, I used to dread the summer school holidays. Rarely could I take enough annual leave to cover the whole six weeks, and there were many times when the best I could expect was one or two weeks off work. This meant either trying to farm the kids out to relatives or spending time out of each day ferrying them around to supportive friends or vacation care activities.
This became harder as they got older and didn’t want to be “treated
like babies” – hanging out at home or worse still, getting up to no good at other people’s
places or roaming the streets was much more fun! This is all well and good if, as a parent,
you’re confident you’ve trained them well in knowing what’s safe and what’s not safe, but
kids in groups can pose its own dangers.
Peer pressure to take risks that you wouldn’t
normally take is pretty hard to resist when you’re a teen.
As a parent, it’s important to be at least two or three steps ahead of the kids. We always do
this when they’re little and we’re constantly scanning the world around them for things that
might trip them up. But we get lazy about this as they grow up, and even more so if you
have to give them extra privileges like coming home alone from school. But now is the time
to take stock of the dangers that your kids might be facing over the long summer holidays.
Where will they be spending their days? Who will be in charge of them and able to help
quickly if there’s an accident? What do these people need to know about your child if the
worst happens and medical attention is needed?
I challenge all parents to sit down and make a safety plan for their kids for the summer
holiday period. Set up a diary so you know exactly where they will be every day and with
whom.
Prepare an emergency response sheet and give this to anyone who will be caring for
your child – any meds they’re on, allergies, food preferences and dislikes, discipline
strategies you use, and exactly how you can be contacted quickly if necessary. Think of
worst case scenario and work around that – if you need to respond quickly to an emergency,
having a safety plan in place will save valuable minutes if it’s a life and death situation.
It’s also important to have safety conversations regularly with your kids. Talk about the
possible risks they face and especially those that are unique to our island home. Let the kids
tell you what they’d do if something bad happened, like a friend being washed off the rocks.
Give them scenarios and talk with them about how they’d handle the event – most of us
who have already been kids can easily think back to those “adventures” we had that now we
remember with dread (“Did I really do that…?”).
Draw on your own life experiences to talk
with your kids about what could have gone wrong, or what did go wrong. Until they’re in
their mid-twenties, developing brains simply aren’t mature enough to be able to completely
assess all the risks in the world around them, even though as parents we might boast about
our kids’ maturity. It’s a fact of life, they can’t. And they simply haven’t yet got the life
experience to have a full toolbox of sensible responses to sudden dangerous situations.
We have to keep coaching them in this as they grow up so they gradually become more skillful
in recognizing danger and being able to sensibly manage it.
Finally, as a community we need to consider strategies we can put in place to offer our
young more protection during times of heightened risk, like the long summer holidays. I’d
like us to start talking about providing vacation activities that keep our young people off the
streets and engaged in fun activities in a safe environment. All we need is a program of
activities for 30 days.
If all of us with special skills get together and dedicate 3 hours a week
twice over the holidays to the kids, we’d only need a handful of people and presto, the kids
are off the streets. And those parents who have to work can do so without worrying
whether their kids are safe.
I invite comments and suggestions about ways we can keep our young safe over summer –
email me at kate.lemerle@nirc.gov.nf phone 51115 and let’s start taking action for a kidsafe
community.
The Child Welfare Office is a state level function being delivered through the Norfolk Island
Regional Council, Lotta Jackson, General Manager.
Kate Lemerle
Child Welfare Officer Norfolk Island Regional Council
21 November 2016
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16 November Council Meeting
An Ordinary Meeting of Council was held on Wednesday, 16 November 2016. The following matters were resolved and carried.
The minutes of the Waste Management Advisory Committee held on Monday 7 November 2016 were received and noted;
Council noted the progress of activities in the Operational Plan 2016/17 for the quarter July to September 2016;
Council noted the registration and associated costs for the Mayor to attend the Mayors’ weekend seminar in Sydney 3-4 December 2016 including the visit and associated costs for the Mayor to view the Waste Management Systems of Ballina Shire Council and Lismore City Council;
Council adopted the membership of both the Sustainable Energy and Heritage and Culture Advisory Committees;
Council agreed to the formation of a Community Donations Committee to assess the Community Donations Program expressions of interest and the Committee will make a recommendation to Council. The Committee comprises of the Mayor, Cr Buffett and the General Manager;
Council endorsed the Waste Management Strategic Plan 2015 (A Prince Consulting) for the Waste Management Committee to review; the Waste Management Centre staff to continue to implement recommendations from the Plan were practical and achievable to meet the July 2018 deadline without delay; the General Manager to commence investigation into the potential for grant funding for an incinerator and baling stations/equipment for recycling; that the Mayor and General Manager arrange for Waste Management public meetings to inform and consult with the community;
Council noted the responsibilities and functions of the Norfolk Island Regional Council’s Heritage Management section;
The Quarterly Budget Review Statement and recommendations contained within were adopted;
Council’s investment report was received and noted;
From 1 December 2016 all meetings of Council, including extraordinary meetings will be recorded and a copy of recordings to be available to members of the community on request. With effect from 1 February 2017 ordinary meetings of Council to be broadcast live over Radio Norfolk and re-broadcast at a time to be determined;
The General Manager to provide a report on the recent road works carried out on Queen Elizabeth Avenue and Taylors Road, including footpath and retaining wall, outlining the cost of the works, metered length of reseal and issues encountered during operation; and
In the Closed Session of Council telecommunications was discussed. Council has acknowledged that the financial viability of Telecom is in serious doubt. A businesscase for upgrade to 4G mobile network and Norfolk Island Telecom Services was noted and to be included in a grant funding application to the Commonwealth; If the grant application is successful a strategy will be developed including how to fund the anticipated losses of the O3b contract; lastly discussions with Senator Nash will commence with the aim of extending the Telecommunications Act 1997 (Cth) to the island as telecommunications is not a local government function and the Council is not in a position to fund shortfalls in this Commonwealth responsibility.
The full agenda, including reports on each item, and minutes for all Council meetings can be viewed at www.norfolkisland.gov.nf or in hard copy at Customer Care in the Telecom Building or the Library.
Lotta Jackson
General Manager
18 November 2016
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Waste Management
The Waste Management Centre will be receiving a minor face lift in the coming weeks. As the clock is ticking to cease ocean outfall by 2018 we need to find solutions to simplify the way we manage our waste.
There is currently a lot of double handling of waste. As yet we do not have the equipment to efficiently empty the bins. The bins are emptied manually onto the ground and then the bobcat is used to pick it up again to take it to where it needs to go.
We are going to simplify the process by removing the bins and installing barriers. This will mean that the sorted waste will be put directly onto the ground. As a result cans, for example, can be taken directly to the crusher for processing without the cumbersome procedure of tipping over bins.
This will be a significant time saver for the staff and will allow them more time to shred tyres and crush glass and cans.
In order for this system to work we do need the assistance from the public. Rubbish must be sorted before it is placed into the shoots. The staff do not have the time or resources to sort the community’s waste.
The shoots will be separated into aluminium cans, steel cans, glass and general household waste. If you are bringing any other waste stream into the centre please ask the staff where they would like you to put it.
The management of waste has been an ongoing issue on the island and the cooperation of the whole community is needed and appreciated to improve the process.
Lastly, if you have a bright idea on how to minimise waste let us know by emailing Council at regionalcouncil@nirc.gov.nf or send a letter addressed to the General Manger, PO Box 95, Norfolk Island, 2899.
Lotta Jackson
General Manager
17 November 2016
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CHILD AND FAMILY WELLBEING Reporting Child Safety Concerns: When to Step In?
Watching out for the kids in our community is something we all have to take seriously. But knowing when to step in, and when to butt out, is a tough call. All kids have accidents and end up with bruises and grazes. They all do things that aren’t safe. They all want to explore their bodies (as well as those of their mates). These are normal in childhood and adolescence, and as adults and parents we have to give them enough leash to discover their place in the world and how it all works. So how do we know when their behaviour is not ’normal’ and might indicate a problem? When should we step in?
For babies and toddlers, warning signs can be obvious like failure to thrive. This is the infant that isn’t meeting developmental milestones like body weight for age, along with the social indicators like smiling and eye contact. Other warning signs might be jumpiness (easily startled), crying too much, cringing around adults, and of course bruising or injuries that can’t be explained by the normal wear and tear of childhood.
For school-aged kids, warning signs can include those above, as well as other less subtle indicators: stealing food; frequently away from school; prolonged illnesses; falling asleep in class; unusual sexual curiosity or knowing too much about adult sex; avoiding changing clothes for gym; being fearful or angry towards certain adults; seeming too grown-up for their age or the opposite, acting too young for their age; outbursts of aggression (bullying); obsessive or compulsive rituals, or phobias.
For teens, we can watch for obvious signs that a young person is ‘at risk’. Abandonment or family breakdown where the young person has left home and is perhaps ‘couch surfing’ clearly increases the risks for long-term psychological problems. Other warning signs include negative self-image (the young person with a sense of hopelessness about the future or low self-esteem); drug use especially in younger teens; engaging in sexual activity (promiscuity); sudden changes in school performance; reluctance to go home; being too compliant or trying to please all the time; or the young person who is over-protective of younger siblings.
Kids who don’t have secure and safe attachments grow up into adults who can’t form healthy relationships and are constantly searching for love. Kids exposed to neglect or harsh discipline grow up into anxious adults who never reach their full potential. Research has shown that children exposed to family violence, abuse or neglect were on average 7-points lower in IQ scores than unexposed childreni, have more problems gaining work and holding on to jobs, go through relationships at a rapid rate, and are more prone to physical problems like diabetes. Worst of all, they often grow up to become abusive adultsii.
We’ve all heard it said that ‘tough love never did me any harm’. The problem with this is that, as we learn more about the effects of abuse on our brains, the more we’re learning that ’tough love’ in fact does damage us. The brains of people who have suffered maltreatment are very different from those who have not. Most commonly we see decreased brain volume, including both grey and white matter across several regions such as the prefrontal cortex (the part of the brain involved in planning complex thinking, decision making, personality, and managing social behaviour) as well as the hippocampus (memory), amygdala (regulating emotional responses), and corpus callosum (exchanging information between both hemispheres)iii.
When to step in?
This is tricky especially in a small community where getting it wrong could mean the end of good neighbourly relations, or when old family traditions like ‘tough discipline’ are considered good for the child. The bottom line is that every one of us needs to have the courage to step in the minute we have a gut feeling something isn’t quite right with one of our kids. We need to talk more about this as a community and recognise that calling attention to something we’re worried about with one of our young is a positive action not an attack on the parents or carers. It’s a positive action because we’re helping out our neighbours who might be going through a bad time and are too frightened or proud to seek help. It’s a positive action because it’s always better to be proven wrong when it comes to our kids being exposed to harm than it is to be living with a guilty conscience after a child is injured or even dead. It’s a positive action because it means we’re watching out for those who will eventually step into our shoes, and we – all of us – want them to be the best people they could possibly be.
Kate Lemerle
Child Welfare Officer
Mobile: 51115
15 November 2016
The Child Welfare Office is a state level function being delivered through the Norfolk Island Regional Council, Lotta Jackson, General Manager.
Please 'contact us' for more information.
CHILD AND FAMILY WELLBEING How can we make Norfolk Island the Best Place in the World for Kids?
In the past few weeks I’ve been talking with lots of people in the community about what we’re doing well for our kids and our families…and what we could be doing better. Many stories have been shared – stories about what’s happened when things have gone wrong as well as the ideas our community has for making Norfolk Island the best place in the world for kids.
As Child Welfare Officer, my job is to work with the community to make sure we provide our kids (and their families) with the safest and healthiest place to grow good adults for the future. This is a big picture and gives us a vision for the future so we’re all pulling together to make sure it happens. I’ve heard some fantastic suggestions for practical ways we can move forward, taking with us the things we most value and want to keep (the things that are working well), and filling the gaps where our kids are not yet getting the best deal to help them grow up as strong people in a strong and resilient community.
Now I’m throwing this open to the whole community and I want your ideas.
Over the next couple of weeks, every family will receive a survey so we can start to compile hard data about the structure and needs of the Norfolk Island community. Yes, I know we just had a census put out by the Australian government, but anyone following the media would know there were some major technical issues. In addition, many local people have admitted not participating, and we could be waiting some time before we get our own local data. So we need to do our own mini-census to get a good understanding of our community demographics – how many people in different age groups, how many people with special needs, how many different family types do we have, and more.
I understand some people might be concerned about privacy, so the survey will be anonymous and the more people who take part, the more we know about our community and can start planning for action.
Expressions of interest to join one of the visioning workshops can be emailed to me kate.lemerle@nirc.gov.nf with an indication of the most suitable time for you (weekday morning/afternoon/evening or Saturday morning/afternoon/evening or Sunday morning/afternoon/evening).
This is a chance for the whole community to help put together a plan for the future for our children and families so please take the time to have your say and share your suggestions – every idea helps and is important for our future.
Kate Lemerle
Child Welfare Officer
Mobile: 51115
14 November 2016
The Child Welfare Office is a state level function being delivered through the Norfolk Island Regional Council, Lotta Jackson, General Manager.
Please 'contact us' for more information.
Absentee Landowners Levy
The Norfolk Island Regional Council Operational Plan 2016/17 was adopted by Council on 28 September 2016, at page 25 it states that a review of the Absentee Landowners Levy Act 1976 (NI) (the Act) and the associated charge will be undertaken as part of Budget deliberations in 2017. The community will be advised of the outcomes of the review in June 2017.
Accordingly, in line with the Act and Council’s resolution, the Absentee Land Owners Levies were issued by Council in September 2016.
The Act requires that an absentee levy be raised to ‘a person who is not a company or an exempt person and has been absent from Norfolk Island for a period of, or periods aggregating, 183 days or more during the year of levy’. Absentee levies are issued on the 15th of September each year for the 12 month period immediately preceding, in this case September 2015 – September 2016.
Amendments to the Local Government Act 1993 (NSW)(NI) stipulate that rates notices are to be levied annually by the Regional Council to land owners of Norfolk Island. The rates levies raised this year relate to the period 1 July 2016 – 30 June 2017. The purpose of Council rates is to contribute to Council expenses such as the upkeep of roads and buildings, contributions towards Tourism and maintenance of public areas, including picnic areas, sports fields and reserves.
For enquiries about Absentee Landowners Levies or Rates please contact Customer Care on customercare@nirc.gov.nf or free call 0100.
Lotta Jackson
General Manager
17 November 2016
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Volunteer Grants Programs 2016
The Norfolk Island Regional Council would like to advise the community that the Volunteer Grants Program 2016 through the Australian Government Department of Social Services (the Department) is now open. Applications close on 20 December 2016 – 2:00pm AEDT. General enquiries can be made by telephoning +61 1800 020 283.
An extract from the Departments website reads:
These grants aim to support the efforts of Australia’s volunteers. They provide small amounts of money that organisations and community groups can use to help their volunteers. They are part of the Government’s work to support the volunteers who help disadvantaged Australian communities and encourage inclusion of vulnerable people in community life.
The funding will help volunteers to do their important work, and the grants of between $1,000 and $5,000 each will allow organisations to buy much needed equipment, such as computers, or help with training volunteers, fuel costs or undertaking background security checks.
Whilst this grant is not through the Norfolk Island Regional Council, the Council relays this material to the community as part of its commitment under the Council’s Operational Plan 2016/17 to provide information to the community on upcoming grants.
Further information, including the link to the Department of Social Services website which provides further information including the Application Form, Program Guidelines and Grant Terms and Conditions can be found under the ‘Upcoming Grants Information’ Quick Links on www.norfolkisland.gov.nf.
The Regional Council does not provide advice to individuals or community members on eligibility for these grants. Specific questions should be directed to the Department.
Lotta Jackson
General Manager
17 November 2016
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Remembrance Day 2016
Every year locals and visitors gather at the Kingston cenotaph to remember those you sacrificed much and many did not return. The 11th November is also known as Armistice Day. The 11th hour, 11th day, 11th month.
Each year since arriving on Norfolk Island I proudly attend the service as one of the St John volunteers. Due to a shortage in St John Ambulance members this year only Superintendent Tracey Hay and myself and Dale Howe could attend this years’ service.
It was a fine but windy day as we gathered at the cenotaph at Kingston. The Norfolk pine trees stood strong and proud as the Norfolk Island locals and visitors sung our National Anthems and we paused for a moment to listen to the sound of the bugle play “the Last Post” the traditional final salute to the fallen.
The young Norfolk Island Cadets stood proudly for the service. Tim Sheridan is the Norfolk Island Cadet co-ordinator and every year he has trained his troops for the ceremony and flag duties.
Thank you to those how could attend the Armistice Day service. Our thoughts were with those who could not attend with us.
The "Ode of Remembrance" is an ode taken from Laurence Binyon's poem,
"For the Fallen"
They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old
Age shall not weary them, nor do the years condemn
At the going down of the sun and in the morning
We will remember them.
Lest we forget.
We Nawa Gwen Forget Dem
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Keeping the Community Informed
VISIT OF SENATOR THE HON. FIONA NASH MP
When Senator Nash met with Council during her brief visit last September she indicated her intent to return as soon as she was able. Senator Nash has written to me this week to advise that she will be visiting again in early December. Whilst dates for the visit are still being settled, I thank Senator Nash for the opportunity to provide her with advice on stakeholders she should meet during her visit. I will be discussing her request with my Council colleagues.
During her visit the Senator is keen to explore with Council several key issues including economic development opportunities for the Island; optimising the use of the KAVHA site for cultural and tourism activities; and the delivery of telecommunication services on the Island.
NORFOLK ISLAND AIRPORT LOAN
The community will recall that l wrote to The Administrator, the Hon. Gary Hardgrave, back in early August requesting he advocate on behalf of the Council for the Australian Government to agree to waive the outstanding balance of $11.4 million of the Commonwealth loan used to resurface the runway of the Norfolk Island Airport. I am pleased to advise that I have received a letter from Senator Nash this week about the Airport loan and advising a new payment schedule is proposed for the balance of the loan. This will be a matter for further discussion between the Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development and the Council. Details will be provided when agreement is reached.
COUNCIL’S CAPACITY TO BORROW
Under the NSW Local Government Act 1993 (the Act) Council may borrow money for purposes relating to its functions under that Act. However, the proposed loan and activity must be listed in the Council’s Operational Plan. Council had sought clarity from the Minister when we met on the Commonwealth’s position on Council exercising its power to borrow and has received the following response:
“As the Council is only a few months old, I consider it a priority to finalise its mandatory ten-year Financial Plan. The Financial Plan should identify new measures where the Council can reduce outlays and improve revenues. If Council intendeds to consider borrowing money, it is important that it can demonstrate that it will be able to repay both new and existing debt.
Borrowing must be worthwhile to support new infrastructure or equipment that will reduce the Council’s costs or provide a new source of revenue. I do not consider that borrowing would be appropriate to support the Council’s operational costs.”
WASTE MANAGEMENT ADVISORY COMMITTEE
The Waste Management Advisory Committee met this week for the first time under the chairmanship of Councillor John McCoy. We welcomed Rick Kleiner for the Chamber of Commerce; Rael Donde for the ATA and community member Diane Adams; with apologies recorded for Denise Quintal for EcoNorfolk and community member Phil McDowell, both of whom were off island. The Mayor, the General Manager, Group Manager Services Bruce Taylor and the Acting Team Leader for Waste and the Environment, P.J. Wilson, were also in attendance.
The role of the committee is to provide advice on the following:
Review the Waste Management Strategy;
Prepare a report on the waste management facilities and assets;
Prepare a report on the management of waste streams;
Review the cost of waste management; and
Make recommendations to the Norfolk Island Regional Council.
The Committee meets again on Monday 5 December with a site inspection on Monday 21 November.
The Vision in the Community Strategic Plan 2016-2026 – Our Plan for the Future (the Plan) - adopted by Council is –
Norfolk Island: The Best Small Island in the World
Our Achilles heel from achieving this goal is how we currently deal with the waste we create as a community. Norfolk Island has until early 2018 to stop dumping our waste in the ocean – less than 18 months away. Strategic Direction 01 in the Plan is ‘An environmentally sustainable community where we use and manage our resources wisely.’ Our Plan contains the goal ‘To reduce, reuse and recover waste and end disposal of waste into the sea’. To achieve that goal requires the co-operation of each and every member of this community simply because it is a community problem not just a Council problem. I think that the following Japanese proverb says it all.
"Vision without action is a daydream. Action without vision is a nightmare."
(A Japanese Proverb)
Robin Adams
Mayor
11 November 2016
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Documents on Public Exhibition
The following document has been resolved by Council to be on Public Exhibition:
The document can be viewed at www.norfolkisland.gov.nf under the ‘Public Exhibition Documents’ link or at the Library or the Telecom Building.
For those wanting to make a public submission on this document please provide before 4.30pm on the date the public submissions close, shown in the table above.
For those wanting to make a public submission on this document please provide before 4.30pm on the date the public submissions close, shown in the table above.
Submissions need to address the content of the document with clear references to specific items or sections within the document. Submissions can be made via email to regionalcouncil@nirc.gov.nf or posted to ‘Public Exhibition Submissions, Norfolk Island Regional Council, PO Box 95, Norfolk Island, 2899’.
Lotta Jackson
General Manager
10 November 2016
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Childhood Neglect: Bad for the Child's Brain
Norfolk Island has had its own legislation to protect children since 2009. The Norfolk Island Child Welfare Act 2009 defines neglect as “… a failure to provide the child or young person with a necessity of life that has caused, is causing or is likely to cause the child or young person significant harm to his or her wellbeing or development”. Necessities of life include food, shelter, clothing and medical care. We’re all aware of the risks from depriving children of the basic necessities of life such as food and water. But when it comes to “psychological harm” or damage resulting from neglect, there is a lot less understanding. What is psychologically harmful to children, and when is the line crossed between giving kids independence versus “child neglect”?
Neglect is the second most common reason for child protection services to be called in Australia, making up to 26% of all cases. Sadly, the most commonly reported cases involve “emotional abuse”, making up nearly half of all reports.
regulate their emotions, learn language, build a sense of self-worth, and develop the skills for fitting in with others. These life skills are necessary for adults to gain employment, enjoy a healthy social life, and for a community to stay strong. Children who have been deprived of secure attachments – in extreme cases such as “feral children” who have been abandoned – do not develop normal social skills or language, and struggle with lifelong emotional and social problems.
Early child-parent bonding is also necessary for healthy brain development. Secure parent-child attachments result in a process called neural integration in the brain. In a person who has formed secure and safe attachments early in life, the right hemisphere of the brain - which specializes in self-awareness, making sense of non-verbal signals, and feeling empathy - works hand-in-hand with the left hemisphere, which is responsible for logical thinking. People who have had secure attachments show thicker fibres (or neural pathways) between the two hemispheres which mean that in any situation, more brain tissue is active. They develop the capacity for self-regulation - they manage stress well - and develop positive patterns of behaviour and better relationships as adults, they are able to solve problems more quickly and efficiently, and they can take a more creative or adaptable approach to life.
A child who is raised by adults who are still struggling to make sense of their own history or have not learned to self-regulate well, or worse still are emotionally barren, misses out on the brain nourishment they need. They tend to be unsure about their own identity, more emotionally unstable, anxious in social situations, have difficult relationships, and overall don’t thrive as well as a child who has had secure adult attachments.
Child neglect is not always easy to spot. Sometimes it’s obvious – seeing kids wandering around without adult supervision, appearing dirty and hungry. Neglect can also be much more subtle – the child who seems too mature for their age because they have taken on an adult role caring for a parent, the child who seems to have more than their fair share of accidents, or the child who is often late for or missing from school. Many times people turn a blind eye to these not-so-obvious warning signs, or worse still, might think it’s good for kids to “grow up” and learn to be independent. But we need to be aware that neglect is harmful to children, and all take more responsibility for acting quickly if we have concerns – a child’s future life as an adult in our community depends on it.
If you have concerns for the wellbeing of any child in our community, please contact the Child Welfare Officer on 51115 to talk about how we can help if things are tough for one or more of our kids.
The Child Welfare Office is a state level function being delivered through the Norfolk Island Regional Council
Lotta Jackson
General Manager
1 November 2016
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Keeping the Community Imformed - Stop Press!
Local screening of Norfolk Island Tourism’s new Destination Campaign Video
I am pleased to be able to advise that the Ray Martin video and the short story videos launched last Friday night are currently being shown nightly at 7 pm until mid-next week. I thank the owners of TVNI and radio announcer Ian (Spider) Webb for making the suggestion when we chatted on air this week; and for the Norfolk Tourism team making it happen so promptly.
Local Government Amendment (Governance and Planning) Act 2016 No 38
We talked last week about how NSW legislation has been applied or will be applied to Norfolk Island by the Commonwealth and I identified the four laws that have been applied so far. One of those laws is the NSW Local Government Act 1993 under which the Norfolk Island Regional Council operates. Once a NSW law has been applied to Norfolk Island an amendment made to that law from time to time by the NSW Parliament will automatically apply as a Commonwealth law to Norfolk Island unless the Commonwealth by a section 19A Ordinance provides otherwise.
Yesterday Council was advised of the making by the NSW Parliament of the Local Government Amendment (Governance and Planning) Act 2016 No. 38 which amends the NSW Local Government Act 1993. The Act commenced in part on 23 September 2016.
Norfolk Island does not have representation in the NSW Parliament and it is important that Norfolk Island be made aware in advance of laws being made by that Parliament which may be applied as Commonwealth law to our Island. Accordingly I will be writing to Senator the Hon. Fiona Nash proposing that as a courtesy, the Commonwealth provide the Norfolk Island Regional Council with copies of Bills being considered by the NSW Parliament that will potentially impact on the people of Norfolk Island. This will allow Council to undertake its advocacy role to the Commonwealth on behalf of the Norfolk Island community.
This week I will provide detail of changes made under the above Act to the expanded role of the mayor and the role of a councillor. Other changes will be provided in the coming weeks.
New Section 226 – Role of mayor
The role of the mayor is as follows:
(a) to be the leader of the council and a leader in the local community,
(b) to advance community cohesion and promote civic awareness,
(c) to be the principal member and spokesperson of the governing body,
including representing the views of the council as to its local priorities,
(d) to exercise, in cases of necessity, the policy-making functions of the
governing body of the council between meetings of the council,
(e) to preside at meetings of the council,
(f) to ensure that meetings of the council are conducted efficiently,
effectively and in accordance with this Act,
(g) to ensure the timely development and adoption of the strategic plans,
programs and policies of the council,
(h) to promote the effective and consistent implementation of the strategic
plans, programs and policies of the council,
(i) to promote partnerships between the council and key stakeholders,
(j) to advise, consult with and provide strategic direction to the general
manager in relation to the implementation of the strategic plans and
policies of the council,
(k) in conjunction with the general manager, to ensure adequate
opportunities and mechanisms for engagement between the council and
the local community,
(l) to carry out the civic and ceremonial functions of the mayoral office,
(m) to represent the council on regional organisations and at
inter-governmental forums at regional, State and Commonwealth level,
(n) in consultation with the councillors, to lead performance appraisals of
the general manager,
(o) to exercise any other functions of the council that the council
determines.
New Section 232 – the Role of a councillor
(1) The role of a councillor is as follows:
(a) to be an active and contributing member of the governing body,
(b) to make considered and well informed decisions as a member of the
governing body,
(c) to participate in the development of the integrated planning and
reporting framework,
(d) to represent the collective interests of residents, ratepayers and the local
community,
(e) to facilitate communication between the local community and the
governing body,
(f) to uphold and represent accurately the policies and decisions of the
governing body,
(g) to make all reasonable efforts to acquire and maintain the skills
necessary to perform the role of a councillor.
(2) A councillor is accountable to the local community for the performance of the
council.
(1) The role of a councillor is as follows:
(a) to be an active and contributing member of the governing body,
(b) to make considered and well informed decisions as a member of the
governing body,
(c) to participate in the development of the integrated planning and
reporting framework,
(d) to represent the collective interests of residents, ratepayers and the local
community,
(e) to facilitate communication between the local community and the
governing body,
(f) to uphold and represent accurately the policies and decisions of the
governing body,
(g) to make all reasonable efforts to acquire and maintain the skills
necessary to perform the role of a councillor.
(2) A councillor is accountable to the local community for the performance of the
council.
Cr. Robin Adams
Mayor
3 November 2016
Mayor
3 November 2016
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Your Regional Council
The Norfolk Island Regional Council is now four months old and is well on the way to progress its goals under the integrated planning and reporting framework: the Operational Plan 2016/17 which is in line with the draft Delivery Program 2016-2020 and the Community Strategic Plan 2016-2026. A progress report on the activities during the first quarter of this newly formed Regional Council will be presented at the November Ordinary Council meeting to be held on Wednesday, 16 November at 2:00pm.
Please be informed that the Customer Care Team are available to the community to assist with all general enquiries about Council services including rates and billing queries, information regarding fees and charges, motor vehicle licensing and registration and Rawson Hall bookings to just name a few. Customer Care can be emailed at customercare@nirc.gov.nf or free call 0100 to speak to a Customer Care Officer.
Formal submissions and other formal correspondence to Council need to be emailed to regionalcouncil@nirc.gov.nf or posted to the attention of the General Manager, PO Box 95, Norfolk Island, 2899. This is so that incoming mail can be registered and forwarded to the relevant actioning officer within the Regional Council, and because Council has an obligation to keep records of all documentation to ensure accountability and transparency.
It is important to note that the Mayor and Councillor's listen to community concerns, however they cannot address individual matters and these must be directed to Customer Care or formal submissions through the General Manager as detailed above. For example, enquiries regarding specific rates notices and the like are in line with the framework of Local Government where the Mayor and Councillors’ roles are strategic and decision making, whereas the General Manager has the responsibility for the operational side of Council and for the implementation of Council’s decisions.
The Local Government Act 1993 (NSW)(NI) (the Act) details the role of a Councillor. They have an important role to play including developing the Community Strategic Plan and other long term planning documents, representing the interests of all residents, ratepayers and the local community and facilitating communication between the local community and the governing body.
In addition to the role of a Councillor, the Act details the extra responsibilities of the Mayor, including being the principal member and spokesperson of the governing body, promoting partnerships between the Council and key stakeholders and carrying out civic and ceremonial functions of the Mayoral Office.
The Act also details the role of the General Manager which includes to conduct the day-today management of the Council in accordance with strategic plans, programs, strategies and policies of Council, to implement Council decisions without undue delay and ensuring Councillors and the Mayor are given timely information and advice and the administrative and professional support necessary to effectively discharge their functions.
'I trust this information will assist the community. The Mayor and Councillors’ roles include listening to their community to ensure they are representing the collective interests of the community, however their role does not include assisting with individual operational requirements, that is the role of the public service staff to do in an efficient and effective manner’, Ms Lotta Jackson said.
Council welcomes feedback from the community on its service delivery, using either of the emails above, or by post addressed to the General Manager.
Lotta Jackson
General Manager
3 November 2016
Lotta Jackson
Please 'contact us' for more information.
Documents on Public Exhibition
The following document has been resolved by Council to be on Public Exhibition:
The document can be viewed at www.norfolkisland.gov.nf under the ‘Public Exhibition Documents’ link or at the Library.
For those wanting to make a public submission on this document please provide before 4.30pm on the date the public submissions close, shown in the table above. Submissions need to address the content of the document with clear references to specific items or sections within the document. Submissions can be made via email to regionalcouncil@nirc.gov.nf or posted to ‘Public Exhibition Submissions, Norfolk Island Regional Council, PO Box 95, Norfolk Island, 2899’.
Lotta Jackson
General Manager
24 October 2016
Please 'contact us' for more information.
Wholesale Fuel Prices
There has been a cost increase in the recent fuel shipment to the island as follows (per litre):
$0.03 cents – Unleaded petrol
$0.01 cents – Diesel
$0.09 cents – Jet-A1
In the recent past when supply prices fell the savings were fully passed on to the community through the reduction in the wholesale price.
These increases have been added to the wholesale price and the new wholesale prices are detailed below (per litre):
$1.40 – Unleaded petrol
$1.37 – Diesel
$1.59 – Jet-A1
These prices take effect from the first delivery after 30 October 2016. Electricity prices will not change with this increase.
Lotta Jackson
General Manager
24 October 2016
Please 'contact us' for more information.
Keeping the Community Informed - Application of NSW Legislation to Norfolk Island
The following NSW laws were applied to Norfolk Island on 1 July 2016 –
Health Services Act 1997
Interpretation Act 1987
Local Government Act 1993
Long Service Leave Act 1955
The application of other NSW laws was suspended for six months until 31 December 2016 to allow time for further negotiations and further consideration be given to transitional arrangements which will need to be in place before extensive application of NSW applied laws to Norfolk Island can occur. Mayor Adams wrote to Senator the Honourable Fiona Nash on 25 October 2016 in the following terms:
“Senator the Hon Fiona Nash MP
Minister for Regional Development
Minister for Local Government and Territories
Minister for Regional Communications
Deputy Leader of the Nationals
Parliament House
CANBERRA ACT 2601
Email to: Senator.Nash@aph.gov.au
Dear Senator,
APPLICATION OF NSW LEGISLATION TO NORFOLK ISLAND
Senator you will of course be aware that under the Norfolk Island Applied Laws Ordinance 2016 (Cth), section 4 – ‘Simplified outline of this Ordinance’ – ‘The laws of New South Wales, as in force in New South Wales from time to time, form part of the law of the Territory’ and that in this Ordinance ‘the term “applied laws” is used to refer to New South Wales laws in their character as laws of the Territory.’
Notwithstanding this, under Schedule 1 of the Ordinance –
‘the suspension of most applied NSW laws for six month is intended to allow time for further negotiations with the NSW government for its officers and employees to perform functions and provide services in relation to Norfolk Island. It would also enable further consideration to be given to transitional arrangements which will need to be in place before more extensive application of NSW applied laws to Norfolk Island can occur.’
Over the term of their appointment, the Norfolk Island Advisory Council made a number of formal recommendations to the Assistant Minister for Infrastructure and Regional Development Jamie Briggs and to the Minister for Major Projects, Territories and Local Government Paul Fletcher. In their final report in June 2016 the Advisory Council made the following recommendation in respect of a ‘Modern Legal Framework for Norfolk Island’ –
‘The Advisory Council recommends the Australian Government establish a community consultation process to be applied for changes to laws on Norfolk Island which includes an impact assessment, a set timeframe for responding to the Minister and involves the Administrator and Regional Council’
I feel confident Senator that you will share Council’s concern that with 31 December 2016 fast approaching that a community consultation process and an impact assessment is yet to be undertaken. Additionally neither Council nor the Norfolk Island community has been advised whether it is intended that further transitional arrangements are to be put in place before there is more extensive application of NSW applied laws. These concerns have been relayed to the Administrator from time to time in our fortnightly meetings and I appreciate he shares Council’s concern.
Accordingly I write to propose to you Senator that a task force of Commonwealth officers and representatives from the Norfolk Island Council be established as a matter of priority to discuss what transitional arrangements are required and what impact assessment is to be undertaken to ensure the extension of NSW legislation, if it is to occur, that it is seamless and harmonises with the culture and way of life of the Norfolk Island people that has evolved over time independently of the culture and way of life of the people of New South Wales.
Yours sincerely,
Robin Adams
Mayor
Letter copied to the Administrator, Mr Gary Hardgrave; Mr Richard Hay Executive Officer; General Manager Ms Lotta Jackson, and Councillors
COUNCIL MATTERS
A reminder that the Delivery Program is out on public exhibition for 28 days and a copy is available at the Library and at Telecom as well as on Council’s website www.norfolkisland.gov.nf where you click on the link public exhibition documents. The Delivery Program sets out the actions the Councillors have committed to undertake in their four year term of office. These actions are consistent with the strategic objectives detailed in the Community Strategic Plan 2016-2026.
Robin Adams
Mayor
27 October 2016
Mayor
27 October 2016
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CHILD AND FAMILY WELLBEING - Raising Our Kids Together…as Community
Raising kids is far harder these days than ever before. Not only do we have to cope with all the risks from the internet, but many parents struggle with the job of parenting as well as holding down employment. I hear almost every day parents telling me how exhausted they are, and many talk about feeling as if they are in one long dark never-ending tunnel. It’s even harder if you’re going through a relationship breakdown and parents are hurt, angry, and frightened about the future.
All these life pressures mean that many parents simply don’t have the emotional resources to cope well with the normal demands of kids. In fact, I believe that every parent, at different times in their lives, comes unstuck when kids act out…or are simply kids being kids but at the wrong moment when the grown-ups just aren’t in the best headspace.
At these times, things can very quickly get out of hand. I’ve talked with many parents over the years who have shared with me those moments when they felt they were within a whisker of lashing out at their kids. Or worse still, those who have lost the plot for a moment and then found themselves up to their neck in trouble with the authorities. These are sad cases and even sadder, in every case, could have been prevented.
One way we can work towards preventing these tragic events is to step up, as a community, to the responsibility we all have to protecting our children and working together to raise secure, stable and resilient adults for tomorrow. Many cultures across the world have versions of the old African proverb “It takes a village to raise a child”i. Communities through history have realised that children need the support and nurturing from a range of different adults to nourish their development. It’s only been since the 1800’s and the emergence of capitalism that the nuclear family (typically a family group consisting of a pair of adults and their children) came into being, and much more recently that single-parent families and blended families became common in our society. As capitalism grew, so did the need for young adults to move away from their village and extended family to seek work. This trend has increased steadily and now we commonly see young adults and their children even travelling overseas for jobs. With this, family support weakens and parents have to take on even more responsibility juggling parenthood with raising the kids without support.
The consequence is that ‘the state’ (governments and other agencies) has had to step in and take over providing support to families. This includes providing financial support as well as services such as child care and family welfare. But with this often comes guilt and suspicion from parents who may be struggling but feel that reaching out for support is a sign of weakness. In many of the tragic cases we read about in the news, we find that the victims refused to seek help, believing that they would be punished for doing so. They forget the old proverb mentioned above – it’s up to all of us, as a community, to raise the children!
So here are a couple of the take-home messages:
If you are a parent and you’re struggling to cope, please reach out and tell someone and ask for help; it is an act of courage and self-respect – NOT a sign of weakness – to recognise you can’t do the job of raising healthy responsible adults alone. And most importantly, by asking for help you’re showing your kids that you’re a strong parent who values their needs above a bit of misplaced self-pride.
If you are part of this community and you observe a parent who seems to be struggling, reach out with a caring heart; it’s an act of kindness to someone who may be on the brink, and it could just be something that comes at a critical moment that could save a life. It can be as simple as complimenting the parent on the job they’ve taken on, or offering to help in the moment.
As a whole community, we need to talk more about working together to raise our children. We shouldn’t be waiting until there’s a major crisis before we act, it’s about working together to create a seamless network of community members, services and agencies with responsibility for growing our next generation into the best possible people they can be. And that’s up to all of us!
If you’re a parent and not coping as well as you could, or if you know a friend or neighbour is struggling, please encourage them to contact the Child Welfare Officer on 51115 or other agencies for support to arrange a meeting to talk about how we could work together to make things better.
Child Welfare Officer
Mobile: 51115
25 October 2016
Mobile: 51115
25 October 2016
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Documents on Public Exhibition
The following document has been resolved by Council to be on Public Exhibition:
The document can be viewed at www.norfolkisland.gov.nf under the ‘Public Exhibition Documents’ link or at the Library.
For those wanting to make a public submission on this document please provide before 4.30pm on the date the public submissions close, shown in the table above. Submissions need to address the content of the document with clear references to specific items or sections within the document. Submissions can be made via email to regionalcouncil@nirc.gov.nf or posted to ‘Public Exhibition Submissions, Norfolk Island Regional Council, PO Box 95, Norfolk Island, 2899’.
Lotta Jackson General Manager
24 October 2016
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Return of Waste Management Centre Opening Hours
The Waste Management Centre will return to its usual opening hours from 25 October 2016. Therefore, the Centre will again be open from 7am to 4pm Tuesday to Saturday.
Council thanks the community for its patience whilst the Centre had to reduce hours due to operational requirements this month.
Lotta Jackson General Manager
24 October 2016
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Rates Notices
Rates notices for this financial year were issued by the Norfolk Island Regional Council by 21 October 2016. Rates are levied on each parcel of land, otherwise known as a portion of land. The only exception is land categorised as tourist accommodation, which is charged according to the number of registered units.
Properties which are exempt from rates, such as those listed as KAHVA and Historical sites, will not receive an account, but will receive a letter outlining their property details and the fact that they have been classified as exempt.
Rates notices are subject to a pensioner rebate. To enquire if you are eligible for this rebate contact the Customer Care Team, or download a form at www.norfolkisland.gov.nf.
If you are having difficulties paying your rates, you may be eligible for a financial hardship (rate relief) application, including payment arrangements. A copy of this form can be downloaded from www.norfolkisland.gov.nf. Payment arrangement enquiries can be made to the Finance Team on +6723 22001.
For the information of the community, the back page of the rates notice is attached to this media release and provides information on how to pay your rates and how to make applications for rebates and special considerations.
The community will recall that Council approved the Rating Model on 28 September 2016. Administrative errors were identified within that model. At the Council meeting on 19 October, Council adopted the correct Rating Model and that is also attached to this media release. For full details on the administrative changes, please view the October meeting Agenda on Council’s website.
If you have any general queries regarding your rates notice please contact the Customer Care Team on +6723 22244 or email customercare@nirc.gov.nf. Hard copies of forms can be collected from the Customer Care Team.
Lotta Jackson General Manager
25 October 2016
Please 'contact us' for more information.
EXCLUSIVE - Norfolk Online interviews Pauline Hanson
On Thursday October 20, Pauline Hanson gave an exclusive interview with Norfolk Online immediately prior to the public meeting held at Rawson Hall with the Norfolk Island community.
Pauline Hanson, the party leader of One Nation who has recently commenced a six year term as Senator for Queensland, has been on Norfolk Island since Tuesday on a fact-finding mission at the request of the Norfolk Island Council of Elders and the Norfolk Island People for Democracy. She was on the Island, speaking with interest groups such as the Chamber of Commerce, NIPD, the Council of Elders, farming producers and members of the fishing industry for four days and the public meeting on Thursday was the culmination of her trip.
Known as a controversial figure in Australian Politics, it did not take long before mainland media were covering her Norfolk expedition. The coverage so far has focused on a letter Senator Hanson has written to Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull, requesting the immediate dismissal of Hon. Gary Hardgrave. Senator Fiona Nash, who has ministerial responsibility for Norfolk Island through her Local Government and Territories portfolio, has been quoted by The Australian as saying that Hardgrave would not be sacked “based on vague and unsubstantiated allegations.” Likewise, Hardgrave himself responded to Hanson’s letter by saying the claims were “nonsense, and not worth responding to.”
In speaking with Norfolk Online, Senator Hanson stated that she “had more contact with the people [of Norfolk Island]” in her short time here, than what Senator Nash “has had in the past two years that she’s been holding this portfolio.” Hanson outlined the meetings that she has been having since her arrival on Tuesday, her interactions with the public, and the public meeting as her basis for this claim and even went so far as to say that the lack of connection with the community may also apply to Gary Hargrave, who serves on Norfolk as the Administrator. Hardgrave and Nash, according to Hanson, “are so out of touch with the people of the community that they need a good wakeup call” with regard to what’s happening on Norfolk Island. Nash did visit the island recently, but as Senator Hanson pointed out both in the interview and the public meeting, it was for only 24 hours and she spoke only to very select groups of people.
Hanson stated in her letter that “Mr Hardgrave appears to have mislead the Australian parliament and successive government ministers through his repeated claims that genuine democratic consultation with the people of Norfolk Island occurred prior to the abolition of self-governance, and that the majority of Norfolk Island residents support these changes.” She also called for an independent investigation into the Administration of the island. When asked by Norfolk Online as to the scope of that investigation, she reported that she would be seeking a conversation with Prime Minister Turnbull and Senator Nash in an attempt to get a dialogue going to present the community’s concerns to Turnbull and the Commonwealth Government, as ‘something has to be done.” If that is unsuccessful, she said, she would call for a Senate Inquiry so that the people of Norfolk Island could appear before the relevant senators to state their case to “really find out what is happening.” In the public meeting Senator Hanson outlined that she would ensure the relevant information she has collected while on the island would be delivered to the Senate regardless of the inquiry, stating she would be tabling documents in session upon her return.
Senator Hanson’s concerns come from the people of Norfolk Island—as she pointed out in her interview, she was invited here by community groups who are “desperate to get a voice.” Being the Senator for Queensland, she is not the representative for Norfolk Island, but the lack of response to petitions, and letters to Senator Nash, the Prime Minister and the Governor General gave the community a basis to reach out to her. She has responded to those pleas to “hear what the people have to say,” for whom she says she has “the utmost respect.” Her conception of the culture, language, and people of the community is that “they are not Australian. They are Norfolk.” Hanson is very concerned for the status of the island, with businesses closing and people leaving and doesn’t believe that “what the Government has done is in the best interests” of Norfolk Island. “What’s happening here is a complete waste of taxpayer money,” and although Hanson believes that “Australians would dearly like to help the people of Norfolk Island,” that is not what is happening right now. She repeatedly stated that she is concerned for the people, and with reference to former Prime Minister Kevin Rudd’s apology to the “Stolen Generation,” indicated that she does not what Australia to “say sorry again.”
Asked specifically about the current transition process that the Commonwealth has initiated on the island, Hanson called for “a hold on everything” with “a decent consultation process” that doesn’t come from “bureaucrats that are feeding rubbish to our politicians.” This responsibility, Hanson stated, falls to the politicians in Australia’s Parliament who have “passed something that is not representative of the people.” One Nation, who have four Senate seats following the 2016 election, holds the balance of power in the Senate and Hanson will “go [to the Senate] with a strong voice to represent the people, to try and get common sense so people will listen to what is happening [on Norfolk].”
Her concern for the people of Norfolk is not dependent on their status as Australian citizens, because, she said, Norfolk Island has been operating as it’s own country, and the rules and regulations now being imposed on the island are outside of Norfolk’s culture and who “[they] are as a nation.” Norfolk, according to Hanson, should have self-determination and “the right to determine what the future should be.” Australia’s role in that should be to help Norfolk achieve that, and to continue in building on the infrastructure, culture, and industry that the people here have fostered since 1856. “What right,” Hanson asks, “does Australia have to come in and take [Norfolk’s] infrastructure and start telling [them] what to do?”
Please 'contact us' for more information.
Taylors Road update
The General Manager of the Norfolk Island Regional Council, Ms Lotta Jackson, would like to thank the community, business owners and visitors for their patience during the road works and temporary road closures on Taylors Road. Ms Jackson would also like to thank the Commonwealth for the funds contributed to allow Council to undertake these works.
The road is now sealed and is open for use by the community. There is only a relatively short stretch of Taylors Road that remains to be upgraded – from outside Paw Paw’s Pump Shed to the village entrance. There is money allocated in Council’s budget to complete these works this financial year.
Lotta Jackson General Manager
21 October 2016
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Documents on Public Exhibition
The following document has been resolved by Council to be on Public Exhibition:
The document can be viewed at www.norfolkisland.gov.nf under the ‘Public Exhibition Documents’ link or at the Library.
For those wanting to make a public submission on this document please provide before 4.30pm on the date the public submissions close, shown in the table above.
Submissions need to address the content of the document with clear references to specific items or sections within the document. Submissions can be made via email to regionalcouncil@nirc.gov.nf or posted to ‘Public Exhibition Submissions, Norfolk Island Regional Council, PO Box 95, Norfolk Island, 2899’.
Lotta Jackson General Manager
21 October 2016
Lotta Jackson General Manager
21 October 2016
Please 'contact us' for more information.
Rates Notices
Rates notices for this financial year were issued by the Norfolk Island Regional Council at the end of this week.
Properties which are exempt from rates, such as those listed as KAHVA and Historical sites, will not receive an account, but will receive a letter outlining their property details and the fact that they have been classified as exempt.
Rates notices are subject to a pensioner rebate. To enquire if you are eligible for this rebate contact the Customer Care Team, or download a form at www.norfolkisland.gov.nf.
If you are having difficulties paying your rates, you may be eligible for a financial hardship (rate relief) application, including payment arrangements. A copy of this form can be downloaded from www.norfolkisland.gov.nf. Payment arrangement enquiries can be made to the Finance Team on +6723 22001.
For the information of the community, the back page of the rates notice is attached to this media release and provides information on how to pay your rates and how to make applications for rebates and special considerations.
The community will recall that Council approved the Rating Model on 28 September 2016. Administrative errors were identified within that model. At the Council meeting on 19 October, Council adopted the correct Rating Model and that is also attached to this media release. For full details on the administrative changes, please view the October meeting Agenda on Council’s website.
If you have any general queries regarding your rates notice please contact the Customer Care Team on +6723 22244 or email customercare@nirc.gov.nf. Hard copies of forms can be collected from the Customer Care Team.
Lotta Jackson General Manager
21 October 2016
Please 'contact us' for more information.
Keeping the Community Informed
MAYOR VISITS WOOLLAHRA MUNICIPAL COUNCIL
‘Whilst my time off Island last week was for personal business, I did take the opportunity to meet with the Mayor of Woollahra Municipal Council Cr Toni Zeltzer, the General Manager Mr Gary James and Councillors,’ Mayor Adams said, ‘Woollahra Municipal Council is just up the road from Rose Bay where I was staying with friends. Their Council which has 15 Councillors meets twice a month on a Monday at 8.00pm. I was very warmly received by the Mayor who gave the Norfolk Island Regional Council formal recognition during their Council meeting. It was interesting to observe their meeting procedures which are very similar to ours though most of the evening’s business was debating planning issues.’
CURBING AND SEALING OF TAYLORS ROAD
CURBING AND SEALING OF TAYLORS ROAD
‘I responded on radio this week to questions asked of me about the works on Taylors Road and I hope the following is helpful though it does not answer the question “why are we only curbing the low side of the road,”’ Mayor Adams said.
The Commonwealth provided $500,000 grant funding for – a) the footpath from Channers Corner to Norfolk Village; b) roadworks at Channers Corner to the cattle stop on Taylors Road, including concrete kerb/gutter and dish-drain; and c) roadworks along Taylors Road from this cattle stop until the Commonwealth’s funds ran out which was expected to happen near the Colony Chinese Restaurant.
A decision was taken to only concrete curb and gutter the road on the low side to collect runoff and channel it into the pit outside the Chinese Restaurant. Funds have been provided in Council’s 2016/2017 Budget to complete resealing Taylors Road from the Chinese Restaurant to, and including, Norfolk Village. Again the project will include curbing on the low side of Taylors Road.
MANAGEMENT PLANS FOR COMMONWEALTH MARINE RESERVES
The Commonwealth provided $500,000 grant funding for – a) the footpath from Channers Corner to Norfolk Village; b) roadworks at Channers Corner to the cattle stop on Taylors Road, including concrete kerb/gutter and dish-drain; and c) roadworks along Taylors Road from this cattle stop until the Commonwealth’s funds ran out which was expected to happen near the Colony Chinese Restaurant.
A decision was taken to only concrete curb and gutter the road on the low side to collect runoff and channel it into the pit outside the Chinese Restaurant. Funds have been provided in Council’s 2016/2017 Budget to complete resealing Taylors Road from the Chinese Restaurant to, and including, Norfolk Village. Again the project will include curbing on the low side of Taylors Road.
MANAGEMENT PLANS FOR COMMONWEALTH MARINE RESERVES
At its October Council Meeting this week Council agreed a submission be sent in the following terms:
That Council provides a submission outlining the following:
(1) Currently Norfolk Island fishers can legally collect (in pots and nets) spanner crabs etc in waters surrounding Norfolk Island up to the limits of the 40nm x 67nm ‘box'. Rezoning the majority of ‘the box’ from MUZ (Multiple Use Zone) to HPZ (Habitat Protection Zone) will prevent Norfolk Island Fishermen from participating in traditional fishing activities; including using pots and nets to collect crabs outside of the 10 kms x 10km MUZ. We ask that the current traditional fishing activities remain legal in waters surrounding Norfolk Island up to the limits of the 40nm x 67nm ‘box'.
(2) Council is in agreement with the northern part of the reserve maintaining the marine national park zone. (3) Council is in agreement with the southern part of the reserve introducing a new marine national park zone which provides protection over the Vening-Meinsez Fracture Zone. (4) That the recommendation to rezone a large part of Norfolk Islands ‘box’ from MUZ to HPZ and to create a small 10km x 10 km MUZ zone around Norfolk Island be amended to be the same size as our current ‘box'. For clarity, the recommendation would need to be amended to read ‘Change the MUZ to HPZ except for an area of 40nm X 67nm centred around Norfolk Island’.
In summary: In 2012 all Norfolk Island waters with the Norfolk Island box (The Box) were zoned multiple use. The current proposal recommended by the Review Panel is that 98.5% of the area inside The Box is to be rezoned a habitat protection zone. This move is creating wide spread confusion in the community and is not supported by the Norfolk Island Regional Council. The confusion is easily removed by leaving the area inside The Box zoned as a multiple use zone.
BUSINESS CASE TELECOMMUNICATIONS
That Council provides a submission outlining the following:
(1) Currently Norfolk Island fishers can legally collect (in pots and nets) spanner crabs etc in waters surrounding Norfolk Island up to the limits of the 40nm x 67nm ‘box'. Rezoning the majority of ‘the box’ from MUZ (Multiple Use Zone) to HPZ (Habitat Protection Zone) will prevent Norfolk Island Fishermen from participating in traditional fishing activities; including using pots and nets to collect crabs outside of the 10 kms x 10km MUZ. We ask that the current traditional fishing activities remain legal in waters surrounding Norfolk Island up to the limits of the 40nm x 67nm ‘box'.
(2) Council is in agreement with the northern part of the reserve maintaining the marine national park zone. (3) Council is in agreement with the southern part of the reserve introducing a new marine national park zone which provides protection over the Vening-Meinsez Fracture Zone. (4) That the recommendation to rezone a large part of Norfolk Islands ‘box’ from MUZ to HPZ and to create a small 10km x 10 km MUZ zone around Norfolk Island be amended to be the same size as our current ‘box'. For clarity, the recommendation would need to be amended to read ‘Change the MUZ to HPZ except for an area of 40nm X 67nm centred around Norfolk Island’.
In summary: In 2012 all Norfolk Island waters with the Norfolk Island box (The Box) were zoned multiple use. The current proposal recommended by the Review Panel is that 98.5% of the area inside The Box is to be rezoned a habitat protection zone. This move is creating wide spread confusion in the community and is not supported by the Norfolk Island Regional Council. The confusion is easily removed by leaving the area inside The Box zoned as a multiple use zone.
BUSINESS CASE TELECOMMUNICATIONS
In relation to Council’s deliberations on the future of Norfolk Island’s Telecommunications, as discussed in the Confidential part of the Ordinary Council meeting, Council resolved the following:
‘In acknowledgement that –
1) Quality telecommunications are imperative to Norfolk Island’s future prosperity especially as a tourism destination; 2) Norfolk Telecom is currently the principle provider of fixed-line ADSL; PSTN; 2G voice and text mobile services on the Island; and 3) The commercial viability of Norfolk Telecom currently is in serious doubt –
in order to improve the commercial viability of Norfolk Telecom going forward Council be provided as a matter of urgency with a business case:
A) To support an application being made to the Commonwealth - (i) For grant funding to upgrade the mobile network to 4G which in 2014 was estimated to cost $3.7 million; and (ii) For grant funding to update the fixed voice system with fixed wireless units with the 4G system at an estimated cost of $640,000; B) To support Norfolk Telecom becoming a Retail Service Provider (RSP) for nbn services as recommended by Senator the Hon Fiona Nash in her letter to Cr Adams of 21 September 2016 thereby allowing Norfolk Telecom to compete with other RSPs to provide nbn services on Norfolk Island as well as to expand its potential market to other parts of regional Australia; C) To support a further application being made to the Commonwealth for grant funding to enable fibre optic connectivity; and D) If the aforementioned are not successful then Council commence discussions with the Minister for Regional Communications, Senator the Honourable Fiona Nash, with the aim of extending the Telecommunications Act 1997 (Cth) to Norfolk Island by 30 June 2017.
General Manager Norfolk Island Regional Council Quality Row, Kingston, Norfolk Island 2899 telephone: +6723 22001; email: regionalcouncil@nirc.gov.nf
‘Detail of other matters dealt with at the meeting of Council this week can be accessed at http://www.norfolkisland.gov.nf/NIRC_Council_Meetings/Minutes,’ the Mayor said.
Cr Robin Adams Mayor
21 October 2016
‘In acknowledgement that –
1) Quality telecommunications are imperative to Norfolk Island’s future prosperity especially as a tourism destination; 2) Norfolk Telecom is currently the principle provider of fixed-line ADSL; PSTN; 2G voice and text mobile services on the Island; and 3) The commercial viability of Norfolk Telecom currently is in serious doubt –
in order to improve the commercial viability of Norfolk Telecom going forward Council be provided as a matter of urgency with a business case:
A) To support an application being made to the Commonwealth - (i) For grant funding to upgrade the mobile network to 4G which in 2014 was estimated to cost $3.7 million; and (ii) For grant funding to update the fixed voice system with fixed wireless units with the 4G system at an estimated cost of $640,000; B) To support Norfolk Telecom becoming a Retail Service Provider (RSP) for nbn services as recommended by Senator the Hon Fiona Nash in her letter to Cr Adams of 21 September 2016 thereby allowing Norfolk Telecom to compete with other RSPs to provide nbn services on Norfolk Island as well as to expand its potential market to other parts of regional Australia; C) To support a further application being made to the Commonwealth for grant funding to enable fibre optic connectivity; and D) If the aforementioned are not successful then Council commence discussions with the Minister for Regional Communications, Senator the Honourable Fiona Nash, with the aim of extending the Telecommunications Act 1997 (Cth) to Norfolk Island by 30 June 2017.
General Manager Norfolk Island Regional Council Quality Row, Kingston, Norfolk Island 2899 telephone: +6723 22001; email: regionalcouncil@nirc.gov.nf
‘Detail of other matters dealt with at the meeting of Council this week can be accessed at http://www.norfolkisland.gov.nf/NIRC_Council_Meetings/Minutes,’ the Mayor said.
Cr Robin Adams Mayor
21 October 2016
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Child and Family Wellbeing - Why does Norfolk Island Need a Child Welfare Officer?
Without doubt, children are the most precious resource to our community. They are our future, helping to continue our important cultural heritage and bringing fresh new ideas for solving old problems. Raising our children in a safe and nurturing community is a strong value underpinning Norfolk Island life – we know that it takes a village to raise the child, and we know that everyone looks out for the kids. So it may seem puzzling to some people why the island ‘needs’ a Child Welfare Officer, so I’d like to give you a few answers.
Most governments around the world have laws in place for the protection of children. Norfolk Island has had its own Child Welfare Act since 2009 (the Act). This legislation provides a framework for promoting the care, protection and wellbeing of children and young people living on or visiting the island.
The Act recognises that parents and families have core responsibility for providing children and young people with a safe and nurturing environment, and that community and government agencies must work together to help parents and families foster their children’s health, education, developmental needs, spirituality, self-respect, self-reliance and dignity. Our core aim is to keep children safe and protect them from abuse and neglect.
To help administer the Act, the position of Child Welfare Officer (CWO) was established in 2010. The role of this person is to:
support and help families caring for their children and young people;
provide the community with information about children’s developmental needs;
set up community programs to help prevent abuse or neglect of children, or support children in cases where abuse or neglect could be (or is) a risk;
investigate and manage cases where abuse or neglect has been reported including supporting those who are legally bound to report suspected abuse or neglect (e.g. teachers, nurses, doctors);
provide ongoing support to people who have left the Child Welfare Officer’s care.
These responsibilities fall into two broad groups – responding to the needs of children and families when things go wrong and children are at risk, as well as strengthening family resilience so our community is raising healthy, well-functioning children.
What’s changed since 1st July?
Put simply, not much yet. The Norfolk Island Child Welfare Act 2009 has not been repealed and remains the primary Child Welfare law for Norfolk Island.
Under the current legislation, the CWO still has legal responsibility for protecting the safety, welfare and well-being of Norfolk Island’s children, and for promoting the capacity of the community to raise healthy children in a safe environment.
The CWO still has responsibility to investigate reports or suspected abuse or neglect, and this includes making sure that people who have a legal obligation to report suspected abuse (such as teachers, doctors and nurses) are well informed about the regulations and procedures they must follow, such as the correct forms to use to report concerns. Members of the public can also report concerns about children at risk direct to the CWO.
Child Welfare Officer Mobile: 51115
21 October 2016
The Child Welfare Office is a state level function being delivered through the Norfolk Island Regional Council, Lotta Jackson, General Manager.
These responsibilities fall into two broad groups – responding to the needs of children and families when things go wrong and children are at risk, as well as strengthening family resilience so our community is raising healthy, well-functioning children.
What’s changed since 1st July?
Put simply, not much yet. The Norfolk Island Child Welfare Act 2009 has not been repealed and remains the primary Child Welfare law for Norfolk Island.
Under the current legislation, the CWO still has legal responsibility for protecting the safety, welfare and well-being of Norfolk Island’s children, and for promoting the capacity of the community to raise healthy children in a safe environment.
The CWO still has responsibility to investigate reports or suspected abuse or neglect, and this includes making sure that people who have a legal obligation to report suspected abuse (such as teachers, doctors and nurses) are well informed about the regulations and procedures they must follow, such as the correct forms to use to report concerns. Members of the public can also report concerns about children at risk direct to the CWO.
Child Welfare Officer Mobile: 51115
21 October 2016
The Child Welfare Office is a state level function being delivered through the Norfolk Island Regional Council, Lotta Jackson, General Manager.
Please 'contact us' for more information.
Appointment of New Child Welfare Officer
The Norfolk Island Regional Council (NIRC) is pleased to announce the recent commencement of Dr Kate Lemerle to the position of Child Welfare Officer. Kate will be in the role on a sixmonth contract to oversee services for children and families, and can be contacted directly on mobile 51115.
Kate has recently moved from Brisbane to Norfolk Island after visiting regularly over the past few years. She is a Psychologist by training and has previously worked with autistic children and their families, set up support services in a women’s refuge to help kids adjust to family breakdown, and designed a school-based program to strengthen resilience in children from refugee backgrounds. Kate has also worked in community development roles, including setting up Healthy Cities in south west NSW and evaluating the Health Promoting Schools program for her doctoral research.
‘One of my first goals is making it easier for the community to seek help when it’s needed’, Kate said, ’I’d like to hear from the community to find out what children, young people and families think could be done to make Norfolk Island the best place in the world for kids. Soon, we’ll hold public meetings where the community can share their ideas as well as finding out from the children what they think will help them grow into well-functioning adults. In addition, I’ll be offering workshops to help the community understand the steps to take for managing situations where children’s wellbeing is at risk’.
Kate can be contacted directly on 51115 or email kate.lemerle@nirc.gov.nf to book an appointment to meet and share ideas or suggestions.
Lotta Jackson
General Manager
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Council Reminders
COMMUNITY DONATIONS
The General Manager, Ms Lotta Jackson, would like to remind the community that an expression of interest is open calling for applications from local voluntary/community organisations to be provided with a community donation this financial year. Council has allocated $5,000 towards this community donations program. Expressions of interest must be received no later than 4:00pm Friday, 4 November 2016.
For further information the Norfolk Island Government Gazette can be viewed at www.norfolkisland.gov.nf or in hard copy at Customer Care in the Telecom Building or the Library.
RAWSON HALL BOOKINGS
Bookings for Rawson Hall can now be made through the Customer Care Team, located in the Telecom Building, 9 New Cascade Road. The form is available at www.norfolkisland.gov.nf under ‘forms’. The form and payment can be lodged at Customer Care in person or by emailing customercare@nirc.gov.nf, any enquiries please call 0100.
Lotta Jackson
General Manager
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Council Meeting - 19th October
An Ordinary Council Meeting will be held on Wednesday, 19 October at 2:00pm in the Council Chambers at the Bicentennial Complex.
There is a large volume of business to be addressed at the meeting, some of the main points of business include Committee Membership for the Public Reserves, Rock Feed Source, Tourism and Waste Management Advisory Committees; the draft Delivery Program 20162020; and Heritage and Culture Advisory Committee.
‘It is a legal requirement for Council to adopt a Delivery Program. The Delivery Program details the targets that the Councillors’ commit to achieve in their four year term of office. The targets in the Delivery Program align with the Community Strategic Plan 2016 – 2026 and both documents form part of the Integrated Planning and Reporting Framework’, Ms Lotta Jackson said.
The full agenda for this meeting, and minutes of previous meetings can be viewed at www.norfolkisland.gov.nf or in hard copy at Customer Care in the Telecom Building or the Library.
Lotta Jackson
General Manager
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Keeping the Community Informed - Commonwealth Marine Reserves Review Reports have been released
The independent Commonwealth Marine Reserves Review reports from the Expert Scientific Panel and Bioregional Advisory Panels have been released by the Minister for the Environment and Energy, the Hon Josh Frydenberg MP. The review reports can be accessed on: www.parksaustralia.gov.au/marine.
‘The Federal Minister has asked the Director of National Parks to commence the process of preparing management plans for Commonwealth marine reserves – including the Norfolk Island Commonwealth marine reserve – in line with the process set out in the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999,’ Mayor Adams said, ‘We are advised that the Director has issued a public notice inviting interested parties to comment on the proposal to prepare draft management plans and a notice was placed in the Norfolk Islander. The Acting Director is also seeking comments on her proposal to use the recommendations in the independent review as the basis of these plans.’
Council is advised that there are two formal opportunities for public comment during the preparation of management plans, firstly on what people would like to see in plans, and secondly on the draft management plans. The first public comment period closes on 11 October 2016; and it is anticipated the draft plans will be released publicly for further input and community consultation in early 2017.
Parks Australia has welcomed any feedback from the Norfolk Island Regional Council during the preparation of the plans. Information about the public consultation process is available at www.parksaustralia.gov.au/marine.
The recommendations from the review about Norfolk marine reserves can be found at: http://www.environment.gov.au/system/files/pages/23061bf8-df19-4b74-b8675a57ccbc5c8b/files/cmrreviewbioregionaladvisorypanelreportfinalchapter44_1.pdf; A map of the recommended zoning for the Norfolk marine reserve can be found at: http://www.environment.gov.au/submissions/reportmaps/norfolk_cmr_review_reco mmended_zoning.pdf; and Comments can be sent by email to managementplanning.marine@environment.gov.au. ‘Council can play an advocacy role in Commonwealth and State issues which affect the community,’ the Mayor said, ‘Council must keep informed about issues happening at Commonwealth and State levels and I have commenced discussion on this issue with Mr Richard Hay, Executive Officer at the Office of the Administrator to ensure that we create an environment which allows this to happen for the benefit of all parties, including the community’.
‘I have advised the Acting Director of Parks Australia that the closing date for submissions of 11 October 2016 precludes Council from formally responding by the deadline date as the next Ordinary meeting of Council is not until the 19th October, where a resolution would need to be made to do so,’ Mayor Adams said, ‘This is regrettable. However, following my discussion with key stakeholders in the community I will provide a personal submission’.
HAWAIKI SUBMARINE CABLE PROPOSAL FOR NORFOLK ISLAND
‘Last week I mentioned that the Commonwealth had been requested to seek a two week extension of time from Hawaiki beyond 30 September to allow further in-depth discussion with the Commonwealth. Council had also asked for one-off grant funding from the Commonwealth for installation of the branching unit on the cable. Regrettably our request at this time has not been agreed,’ Mayor Adams said.
ABSENCE OF MAYOR
‘I will be off island from 6 to 16 October 2016 on personal business. However, I am looking forward to meeting the Mayor and the General Manager of Woollahra Municipal Council on Monday the 10th and attending a meeting of their Council that evening at 8 pm,’ Mayor Adams said, ‘Woollahra Municipal Council is in the Eastern Suburbs of Sydney between Rosebay and Double Bay’.
‘SHOW DAY’ ON NORFOLK
‘It is Show Day on Monday and regrettably I am unable to be on Island to open the show. However, I am sure I join with all the organisers, exhibitors, attendees including visitors to our beautiful Island in asking for the sun to be shining so everyone can have a wonderful day at our annual show,’ the Mayor said.
Robin Adams Mayor
06 October 201
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Council's Community Donations
At the August 2016 Ordinary Meeting, Council adopted the Community Donations Policy and resolved that Council would fund various community projects in the 2016/17 financial year. These include funds towards the annual Bursaries and Scholarships program, Sports Promotion, Youth Sports Fund, Army Cadets, Banyan Park Play Centre, Christmas Pageant and the Easter Carnival.
In addition, $5,000 has been set aside for the Community Donations Program. Council is calling for expressions of interest from local voluntary/community organisations to submit applications for a share in these funds.
Applications must be received by 4:00pm on Friday, 4 November 2016 to be considered. Further information, and how to apply, can be viewed in the Government Gazette at www.norfolkisland.gov.nf.
Lotta Jackson
General Manager
06 October 2016
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Norfolk Island Issued Stamps still available for Sale
Members of the public are reminded that past Norfolk Island issued stamps are still available for sale until 31 December 2016. Whilst not available to be used for postal purposes, it is an opportunity for stamp collectors and interested persons to purchase a piece of Norfolk Island history.
The stamps can be viewed and purchased at the Old Norfolk Post Office, next door to the new Council Chambers in the Bicentennial Complex. The opening hours for viewing and sales is 10:00am to 12:00pm Monday to Friday. Other times are available by appointment by calling 23705.
The Norfolk Island Philatelic Bureau’s final stamp was issued on 7 June 2016. That stamp issue commemorated the 160th Anniversary of the landing of the Pitcairners on Norfolk Island. There are $5.00 Souvenir Sheets and $7.00 First Day Covers available. Previous years stamps from 2010 to 2016 are also available for purchase, including the 2010 issued ‘Historic Whaling’ series designed by Tracey Yager, and the 2014 issued ‘Artwear’ series showcasing Norfolk Island ‘Wearable Arts’ outfits. Further information on previous issues can be found at www.stamps.gov.nf.
Lotta Jackson General Manager
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Norfolk Island GST Office update
Effective from Monday 3 October 2016 the GST Office will be relocated to the Planning Office, Norfolk Island Regional Council, Kingston. With the cessation of the requirement to collect GST from 1 July 2016, the GST Office will stay at this new location until all outstanding GST payments and record keeping is finalised.
The new opening hours are Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 9.00am to 11.00am.
Norfolk Business Number (NBN) holders are reminded that, if not already paid, outstanding GST payments for GST collected until 30 June 2016 are now well overdue. Prosecutions for breaches of the GST Act will continue to be pursued before the Norfolk Island Courts unless and until all outstanding returns and GST amounts due and payable are lodged in full.
Outstanding GST payments can be made at this office by either Bpay, cheque or cash. The eftpos facility is no longer available. Council regrets any inconvenience this may cause.
The GST Office can be contacted on phone 24109 or by fax on 24130.
Lotta Jackson General Manager
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Keeping the Community Informed
Mayor Adams joined members of the Norfolk Island Police Force for morning tea at Government House on Tuesday morning by kind invitation of the Administrator and Mrs Hardgrave. The occasion was to commemorate National Police Remembrance and the Mayor was invited to say a few words.
‘The invitation to be at Government House prompted me to google The History of Policing on Norfolk Island,’ the Mayor said, ‘I found two sites – one from away, the other a local site. The first was the Australian Police Journal which commenced with – “The history of policing the island has been lost in the mists of time” and so it is good that there are commemorative occasions on Norfolk Island like National Police Remembrance Day so that policing on Norfolk Island doesn’t continue to remain lost in the mists of time. What we do know is that the Norfolk Island Police Force came into existence on 14 October 1931 with the passing of the Norfolk Island Police Act.’
The Mayor shared her firsthand knowledge of policing on Norfolk from having worked with many members of the Norfolk Island Police Force since 1967 when she first joined the Norfolk Island Public Service and worked in the court and legal systems. ‘I have seen the Force grow from one police sergeant and a local police constable to today, where, I believe at last count we have three Commonwealth police officers and two local police officers; and I am sure there are many in the community who will remember the days of Sergeant Bill Riley and the late Pow Snell,’ the Mayor said.
The Mayor went on to acknowledge that policing in a small community can have its upside and its downside and that it can’t always be easy for our officers; but, the Mayor said, in the main her experience has been that our police rise to that challenge well and are respected for the role that they play in our community which is KEEPING US SAFE.
She referred to the local Living Library website (http://www.livinglibrary.edu.nf) which had its origins at the School with a grant from Rotary and concluded her remarks by quoting the simple words of those school children who helped create the site.
‘The Norfolk Island Police have the job of making Norfolk Island a safe and peaceful place to work in, live in and visit. The Police carry out daily patrols of the island. They investigate crimes and they make sure that everyone drives safely. Police also help to look for people when they are lost on the island or at sea.’
‘On behalf of the Norfolk Island community,’ Mayor Adams said, ‘I would like to say to our police officers – thank you for the professional way you carry out your roles in this small remote and isolated community – and as your jobs take you around the world that you too CONTINUE TO STAY SAFE.’
The Mayor also attended the National Police Remembrance Day Service at All Saints Church on Thursday morning and had the following words to say:
‘The service which was well attended was very moving,’ Mayor Adams said. ‘I am aware that there will be an article on the Remembrance Day activities elsewhere in the local press. However, I would like to share with the community the moving Police Prayer which was read by Senior Constable Grant Moses.
God of all people, we know it is from you that we have learned what goodness and justice are. You have given us the task of maintaining law and order in our community.
We seek the strength to meet the many challenges encountered in this endeavour. Give us the courage and the resolution to do our duty at all times, and such a respect and love for justice that neither promise nor threat will ever make us depart from it.
Help us with your guidance to be the Guardian and the Friend of the whole community; a friend to children, an example to youth, a counsellor and adviser to all citizens.
Grant us the skill, and the wisdom, to make us always stronger in protecting and supporting the community. Guide us in knowing when to enforce and when to relax the letter of the law.
Help us to be a personal example of the honesty, the goodness, and the justice which it is our duty to maintain, and grant that our actions will inspire in our community confidence in its police officers.
We make our prayer to you, confident of your love and your compassion.
AMEN
Council at an extraordinary meeting on Wednesday, 28 September passed the following motion:
‘Noting that –
(1) Council on 21 September 2016 requested the General Manager to explore and present options at today’s meeting for Council to secure funding for a branching unit to be attached to the Hawaiki cable to allow Norfolk Island to be connected in the near future; and
(2) Council has received advice from the Group Manager Commercial Hub ‘that it would not be prudent to access funds at such an early stage of our development as a regional council, based on significant unknowns and that much of our cash balances are based on one-off grant funding’, it is therefore the recommendation of Council that it does not proceed with any of the options presented for funding of the Hawaiki Cable in the report presented to Council today.’
‘Council, acting on the advice of senior management and legal counsel, took what I believe was a responsible decision not to agree to endorse any of the options - using Council cash balance, borrow funds from the Commonwealth or from another lending institution,’ the Mayor said.
General Manager Norfolk Island Regional Council Quality Row, Kingston, Norfolk Island 2899 telephone: +6723 22001; email: regionalcouncil@nirc.gov.nf
However, notwithstanding this decision, the Mayor remains in phone contact with Mr Nick Hannan, Advisor to Senator Nash, on Council’s request to the Commonwealth that it seek from Hawaiki a two-week extension of time beyond 30 September 2016 to allow further discussion between the Commonwealth and the Council on its request for a ‘one off grant’ from the Commonwealth to fund Norfolk’s connection to the Hawaiki submarine cable.
‘I hope to have a positive response from the Commonwealth today’, Mayor Adams said.
Robin Adams Mayor
30 September 2016
30 September 2016
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Change to Waste Management Centre Opening Hours
Due to operational requirements the Waste Management Centre will now be open from 7am to 3pm Tuesday to Saturday.
These changes will take effect from Tuesday, 4 October 2016 until further notice.
Council regrets any inconvenience this may cause.
Lotta Jackson General Manager
Please 'contact us' for more information.
Norfolk Telecom Internet Service - ADSL
NORFOLK TELECOM INTERNET SERVICE – ADSL
Norfolk Island Regional Council provides Internet Services on Norfolk Island and we look forward to continuing to offer excellent services to the community.
Look at what we have to offer -
Competitive plans Fast speeds
FREE email service and mail domain hosting
FREE Off-peak data (12am to 5am)
FREE local web browsing
Local customer care support
100% island wide coverage
Pre-paid Home Hotspot service
Fast installs – within 24 hours of application
Call into Norfolk Telecom and sign up today, you won’t be sorry!
Please 'contact us' for more information.
Council Meeting - 28th September 2016
An Extraordinary Meeting of Council was held on 28 September 2016 in the Council Chambers. Three matters were on the Agenda for the Council meeting: Senior Staff Structure; Operational Plan 2016/17; and options for funding Hawaiki Cable.
Generally, staffing matters are operational and therefore dealt with by the General Manager and not normally taken to Council meetings. However, the senior staff structure is a matter that is taken to Council. Council agreed to make the Group Manager Governance position obsolete and instead create two positions - Executive Manager Governance and Human Resources and an Economic Development Coordinator.
The Economic Development Coordinator will cover the functions of Economic Development including promoting business diversification, Tourism, Marketing, Product Development, Visitor Information Centre, Museums and Library. The Executive Manager Governance and Human Resources will cover the functions of Reform Management, Integrated and Corporate Planning, Risk and Internal Audit, Governance, Human Resources, Records, Local Radio and Legal Court Support.
‘There is a small saving in wages with this change in structure. Having both of these positions reporting directly to the General Manager also acknowledges the importance of Economic Development and Tourism for Norfolk Island. Council will advertise for these two positions in the very near future’, Ms Lotta Jackson said.
The Operational Plan 2016/17 was adopted by Council, including the land rating model. The Operational Plan details the activities to be engaged in by Council during the year and details the Revenue Policy, Budget and Schedule of Fees and Charges.
In the meeting, Council made amendments to the Operational Plan and these included - that the proposed Waste Management Fees General Household Garbage in the Schedule of Fees and Charges be deleted. Council will now need to consider other avenues to fund the deficit in the Waste Management Fund, whilst at the same time address the matter of securing grant funding for a waste incinerator. Staff will continue to work with the community to reduce waste and increase recycling.
General Manager Norfolk Island Regional Council Quality Row, Kingston, Norfolk Island 2899 telephone: +6723 22001; email: regionalcouncil@nirc.gov.nf
Council also amended the Operational Plan to remove the action to arrange for property valuations for the rating structure for 2017-18. Therefore, it is likely that a non-valuation system will be in place for 2017-18. Legislation requires a value based system for future years.
In the confidential section of the meeting, a report was provided to Council on the ‘Options for funding Hawaiki Cable’. It was resolved by Council that it does not proceed with any of the options presented for funding of the Hawaiki Cable in the report presented.
The next Ordinary Council Meeting is scheduled for 19 October 2016 at 2:00pm in the Council Chambers at the Bicentennial Complex.
For details on all matters at the 28 September 2016 please view the Agenda and Minutes by visiting www.norfolkisland.gov.nf.
Lotta Jackson General Manager
30 September 2016
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Council Meetings 21 September 2016 – Ordinary Meeting
The Ordinary Council Meeting was held on Wednesday, 21 September 2016 at 2:00pm at the Council Chambers in the Bicentennial Complex.
At the meeting, the Norfolk Island Community Strategic Plan 2016-2026 was adopted by Council as was the Norfolk Island Regional Council Code of Meeting Practice. Both documents had been on public exhibition and submissions were received and reviewed by Council. Amendments were incorporated into the final approved documents from public submissions.
Council adopted the Terms of References for the Tourism Advisory Committee, the Waste Management Advisory Committee, the Public Reserves Advisory Committee and the Rock Feed Source Advisory Committee. Council also approved that the General Manager can advertise for expressions of interest for these Committees in line with the Terms of Reference.
‘The call for expressions of interest for these Advisory Committees have been placed in this week’s Government Gazette. Advisory Committees, whilst not a decision making body, provide the community with a structure to provide advice and make recommendations to Council, so they play an important role in the local government framework,’ Ms Lotta Jackson said.
A motion, provided by notice by Councillor Buffett, was approved by Council and a Sustainable Energy Advisory Committee will be established. This Advisory Committee will consider past reports on Norfolk Island Electricity, assess the oversupply of photovoltaic electricity, assess present and future demand, determine access to supply and make recommendations to Council. Full Terms of Reference for this Committee will be presented to Council for adoption at a subsequent Council meeting.
The Mayor used her Mayoral Minute, and Councillor McCoy moved a motion, relating to a proposal for fibre optic internet connectivity through the Hawaiki Submarine Cable System. Please see the Mayor’s media release dated 23 September 2016 for further information.
General Manager Norfolk Island Regional Council Quality Row, Kingston, Norfolk Island 2899 telephone: +6723 22001; email: regionalcouncil@nirc.gov.nf
‘I thank Trina and the staff at Norfolk Island Tourism for their continuous hard work in all aspects of Tourism. A Norfolk Island Tourism Marketing Update was provided to Council detailing the extensive marketing program, with budgets from Council, for the period July to December 2016. The update will be provided to the local media for the community to view,’ Ms Lotta Jackson said.
28 SEPTEMBER 2016 – EXTRAORDINARY MEETING
An Extraordinary Meeting of Council has been called for 2:00pm on 28 September 2016 at the Council Chambers. An Extraordinary Meeting only deals with the matters stated in the notice of the meeting. Those matters are: the adoption of the Norfolk Island Regional Council Operational Plan 2016/17 which includes the activities for the year, revenue policy, land rating structure, fees and charges and the 2016/17 budget; Norfolk Island Regional Council Senior Staff Structure; and provide information requested through a resolution of Council on the Hawaiki submarine fibre optic cable (to be dealt with in confidential).
For details on all matters at the 21 September 2016 meeting and for the Agenda for the meeting on 28 September please visit www.norfolkisland.gov.nf.
Lotta Jackson
General Manager
23 September 2016
23 September 2016
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Extract from the Agenda of the 21 September 2016 Ordinary Council Meeting
Change to Waste Management Centre Opening Hours
Due to operational requirements the Waste Management Centre will now be open from 7am to 3pm Tuesday to Saturday.
These changes will take effect from Tuesday, 4 October 2016 until further notice.
Council regrets any inconvenience this may cause.
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Waste Management Update
The Waste Management Centre has been a hive of activity over the last week and there is much to report.
The team from EcoReset Pasifika are on island once again preparing various waste streams for export to the mainland. The Waste Management Centre will be sending 20 pallets of shredded tyres for recycling on the next ship. A lot of the asbestos is now repackaged and e-waste is being palletised for export later in the year.
The access driveway to the Headstone burning pit has been fixed and the large hole at the bottom has been filled and levelled to make it a much safer working environment and easier to access. A barrier has also been created along the edge of the cliff. Obviously burning waste at Headstone is not the preferred method of managing our waste but in the interim these works have made the process more efficient.
Access to the glass crusher has been improved making the process smoother than before and two tonnes of crushed glass has been sold this week. The Argentine Ant Officers have sprayed the glass to ensure it is clear from any pests and it is hoped that crushed glass will continue to be sold into the future.
Please note, due to operational requirements the opening hours of the Waste Management Centre will be reduced from Tuesday 4 October 2016 until further notice. The new opening hours will be Tuesday to Saturday from 7am until 3pm. Council regrets any inconvenience this may cause.
Lastly, if you have a bright idea on how to minimise waste let Council know by emailing regionalcouncil@nirc.gov.nf or send a letter addressed to the General Manger, Norfolk Island Regional Council, PO Box 95, Norfolk Island 2899.
Lotta Jackson General Manager
23 September 2016
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Keeping the Community Informed
HAWAIKI SUBMARINE CABLE PROPOSAL FOR NORFOLK ISLAND
Council at its meeting on Wednesday passed the following motion:
‘That in acknowledgement of the economic benefits to Norfolk Island of having access to fibre optic broadband internet connectivity, Council requests the General Manager as a matter of urgency –
1) To provide the Federal Minister Senator the Hon. Fiona Nash with detail of the benefits of fibre optic broadband internet connectivity versus satellite; and of the benefits that can flow to Norfolk from the cable connection that would not also be provided by the NBN Co satellite already available on Norfolk Island;
2) To request the Commonwealth Government to take a leading role in creating a commercial partnership between itself and the Norfolk Island Regional Council to connect to the Hawaiki submarine cable; and
(3) To explore and present options at the next extraordinary council meeting for the Norfolk Island Regional Council to secure funding for a branching unit to be attached to the Hawaiki cable to allow Norfolk Island to be connected in the near future.’
The next extraordinary council meeting is on Wednesday 28 September 2016.
‘The Hawaiki fibre optic broadband proposal was discussed with Senator Nash when Council met with her last Friday’, Mayor Adams said, ‘and by letter to me on Wednesday the Senator has requested Council provide her with further detail on the proposal including a business case setting out the parameters of the project, the implementation arrangements and risks, and the expected benefits to the Regional Council and the Norfolk Island community. Senator Nash has now been provided with a copy of the Hawaiki “Proposed Scope and Offer” from Hawaiki detailing the contractual model – including finance, build and operation – proposed by Hawaiki to Norfolk Island; a draft Supply and Installation Agreement; and a paper detailing the ‘Advantages of Cable over Satellite’ requested by the Senator at our meeting.’
There are three options for connectivity on the table for consideration and discussion with the Commonwealth –
• Option 1: A Branching Unit • Option 2: Branching Unit + marine survey for the Spur • Option 3: Spur
Option 1 - The minimum requirement to allow for connectivity to Hawaiki is to install a Branching Unit (BU) onto the Hawaiki cable system during its implementation. Once the Hawaiki cable is completed, it will not be possible to install a BU, as this would require cutting the cable.
Option 2 – The vessel performing the marine survey will be in Norfolk Island waters by early November 2016. This would require Norfolk to obtain the survey in time from the Australian Authority ACMA.
Option 3 – The spur to Norfolk Island could be built at the same time and in the same implementation program as the Hawaiki cable which is planned to be Ready For Service (RFS) in June 2018.
‘Council has formally sought from the Commonwealth leadership and financial security, preferably for option 3, but if this is not possible, option 2,’ the Mayor said.
Benefits to Norfolk Island
In writing to Senator Nash, the Mayor has pointed out the following:
‘The commercial opportunity that Hawaiki offers in terms of facilitating the creation of a new clean & green, but vibrant industry is indeed very rare.
In terms of opportunity to gain the leading-edge for Norfolk Island in the receipt, transference, and storage of data (not to speak of the myriad of other commercial opportunities that are possible from this level of technology at “our fingertips”) is exactly what Norfolk Island has so desperately needed - a means by which our tourism industry can deal with its inevitable and seemingly cyclical fickleness, whilst another less fickle but more opportunistic and dynamic industry ensures the Island's economic sustainability into the future.
Furthermore, not only is this the very kind of “clean & green” industry that is most desirable in this pristine environment, it is also the kind of industry development with its almost endless commercial possibilities that is the perfect fit to encourage the many, many academicallyenhanced locals to return - lots of high-end jobs emerging as the industry expands.’
Robin Adams Mayor
23 September 2016
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Council Meeting
Information for all meetings, can be found by downloading the agenda, attachments and minutes at www.norfolkisland.gov.nf under the ‘Council Meetings’ link or hard copies can be viewed at the Library or at Customer Care in the Telecom Building.
The Ordinary Council Meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, 21 September 2016 at 2:00pm.
‘There are a number of important items to be addressed at the forthcoming Council meeting on 21 September, including the adoption of the Norfolk Island Community Strategic Plan, Advisory Committees and a Norfolk Island Tourism marketing update. As usual, the public are welcome to attend all Council meetings,’ Ms Lotta Jackson said.
The time for public submissions for the Norfolk Island Regional Council Operational Plan 2016/17 and the extract from the Schedule of Fees and Charges closed on 15 September 2016.
‘I extend thanks to the community members who took the time to put forward submissions on the latest two public exhibition documents. The submissions received on the Operational Plan will be considered by Council between now and an Extraordinary Meeting which will be called for Wednesday, 28 September 2016 at 2:00pm, to specifically deal with the adoption of the Operational Plan 2016/17 which includes the rating model, fees and charges and the budget,’ Ms Lotta Jackson said.
Lotta Jackson General Manager
16 September 2016
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Keeping the Community Informed
VISIT OF SENATOR THE HON FIONA NASH MP TO NORFOLK ISLAND
Minister for Regional Development| Minister for Local Government and Territories|
Minister for Regional Communications
‘As readers will recall on 20 July I wrote on behalf of Councillors to Senator the Hon Fiona Nash MP offering congratulations on her appointment as the Federal Minister with portfolio responsibilities for Norfolk Island. I also extended a warm welcome to the Senator to visit Norfolk Island to have discussions with the Council on how we can work together for the benefit of the Norfolk Island community going forward’, Mayor Adams said.
Minister Nash arrived late last night and met with Councillors and the General Manager this afternoon at the Council Chambers. Minister Nash was accompanied at the meeting by His Honour the Administrator Mr Gary Hardgrave; Mr Nathan Smyth (Chief of Staff to the Minister); Ms Robyn Fleming (Executive Director to Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development); Mr Les White (Deputy Chief of Staff and Media Adviser); and Advisers Mr Adam Wyldeck and Mr Nick Hannan. Mayor Adams offered the following words of welcome.
‘Minister Nash, Administrator, ladies and gentlemen. It gives me great pleasure Minister on behalf of the Norfolk Island community, Councillors and the General Manager of our Regional Council to welcome you to our beautiful Island.
‘Council is currently in the final stages of settling the Island’s Community Strategic Plan which will cover the next 10 years. Development of the plan has entailed a very lengthy consultation process with the Norfolk Island Community; and Council has received and considered many submissions. The Plan is to be adopted by 1 October 2016. The Vision proposed in the Community Strategic Plan is –
NORFOLK ISLAND: THE BEST SMALL ISLAND IN THE WORLD
‘This Vision is not new. In fact it first appeared in the Population Study of Norfolk Island dated 31 March 1974 written by Professor G.J. Butland on commission from the then Australian Government. Professor Butland in his report concluded that –
“If a concerted effort were made, backed by larger financial resources, the community could turn the very small area of the island to its own advantage by converting Norfolk Island into ‘the best small island in the world’, a model haven of considerable beauty, of unique historical interest, of a thriving community, and of rest and relaxation – which are the objectives of the overwhelming mass of the tourists who make the journey to its shores.”.
‘Minister I continue to hold the view that Norfolk Island has the potential to be Australia’s showcase to the world of best practice; but to achieve that goal requires a commitment on the part of the Commonwealth Government and Norfolk Island to partner and collaborate on achieving that outcome.
‘I am sure Councillors and the General Manager join with me in saying we look forward Minister to working closely with you and the Administrator to realise the goal that Norfolk Island is the best small island in the world’
Councillors took the opportunity to raise with the Minister the following issues which Council is currently addressing.
• The Hawaiki Submarine Cable System providing fibre connectivity internet access for Norfolk Island – options for funding – Regional Council to operate
- Financial Assistance Grants from Commonwealth
• Waste Management – Investigation for a suitable Incinerator with partnership grant funding
• Electricity – state government role – need for funding source / grant opportunities for solar power storage facility
- Multi-purpose hall at the Norfolk Island Central School
- Waiver of the Airport Loan (Reference letter to Administrator of 1 August 2016)
‘The discussions were broad ranging and informative and I will report on the outcomes next week’, the Mayor said. ‘It was very encouraging to have the Minister across the issues we raised and to ask searching questions to which Council will respond promptly’.
POTENTIAL FOR FIBRE CONNECTIVITY FOR INTERNET ACCESS TO NORFOLK ISLAND
By way of background
Councillors and Senior Management were briefed on Monday morning by the Chief Technical Officer for Hawaiki, Ms Virginie Frouin who paid an overnight visit to the Island to present the Hawaiki Submarine Cable System to Council. This commercial opportunity was brought to the table for discussion with Councillors and with the Administrator by Councillor McCoy. The deadline for Norfolk to commit to being part of the Hawaiki cable installation is 30 September 2016 and Minister Nash’s visit is very timely.
‘Council sees the Hawaiki opportunity as essential for both Norfolk Island and the Commonwealth Government to be able to optimise diversification of its economy; and to facilitate many other commercial opportunities for the Island along with telemedicine, e-health and e-education.’ Mayor Adams said.
ROADSIDE CLEAN UP
Last Sunday a small band of community minded people helped with the removal from our roadsides of noxious and woody weeds including cascade onion, thistles, lantana en baekastuff. This was an initiative of Landcare and the Norfolk Island Cattle Association and Council thanks those who turned out to help both in the lead up to Sunday and on the day. Noxious weeds Island wide are becoming a major problem in many areas and it is going to take an army of dedicated people to eradicate them. Ownership of most of the roads on Norfolk Island and some reserves was recently transferred from the Commonwealth to the Norfolk Island Regional Council and the noxious weeds issue is a serious matter for Council to consider going forward.
ANGLICARE
‘It was a pleasure on Thursday to meet Anglicare representatives Ms Jill Wrathall (Regional Manager), Mrs Tracy Hicks (Program Manager) and Ms Margot Thomas (Family Worker),’ Mayor Adams said, ‘and it was interesting to learn that Anglicare has been a provider of community and aged care services since 1856. As their pamphlet says, “the same year that the Pitcairners arrived on Norfolk Island”.’ Ms Hicks (mobile 51644) has now moved permanently to the Island and Ms Thomas (mobile 51663) is here for 6 weeks assisting with the setting up of Anglicare on the Island. The Anglicare office is currently upstairs in the Parish Centre and you can contact the on island Office Administrator Ms Barbara Elliott on 52000 to make an appointment.
The experience offered by Anglicare encompasses child, youth and family services; out-of-home care and adoption; relationship and financial counselling; disability and mental health support; emergency relief; community and residential aged care and retirement living.
‘I was encouraged that Anglicare were concerned about a number of issues, particularly those affecting families with children 0-5 years’, Mayor Adams said, ‘and I look forward to further discussion with Anglicare on these issues.’
Robin Adams
Mayor
16 September 2016
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Communication for your regional Council
It is now just over 2 months since the Regional Council came into effect and it feels like years! We have drafted several documents for the community to comment on, reviewed and analysed systems and structures, addressed urgent work and set up the framework for governance, including the Code of Meeting Practice and Council meetings.
We welcome community member’s feedback on how we are providing our services across the functions of the Regional Council including: Telecom, Electricity, Licences and Registrations, Waste Management, Health and Environmental Services, Development Applications, Roads Maintenance, Public Reserves and Museums. Council also looks after Tourism, the Radio and Library. There are many more functions and they are illustrated in the draft Operational Plan 2016/17 that is currently on public exhibition on our web-site: www.norfolkisland.gov.nf under “Public Exhibition Documents”.
If you have questions in relation to your bills, registrations, licenses or general enquiries about Council services please email Council at customercare@nirc.gov.nf or Free Call 0100 to speak to one of our Customer Service officers.
For formal submissions and other formal correspondence to Council, please either email Council at regionalcouncil@nirc.gov.nf or post to the attention of the General Manager P.O. Box 95 Norfolk Island 2899.
ROAD WORK – UPDATE
Council staff identified a potential sink hole near a drain pit on Taylors Road where the road is to be resurfaced. This work was attended to during the early part of the week and the drain is now flowing well.
Until next week, have a great time.
Lotta Jackson
General Manager 09 September 2016
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KEEPING THE COMMUNITY INFORMED - Visit of Gai Brodtmann MP
Councillors, the General Manager and Group Managers met with Ms Gai Brodtmann MP last Saturday and whilst her visit was short it would seem that she was able to have discussions with a broad cross section of the community as well as visiting the Hospital. Councillors took the opportunity to raise a number of issues which included –
• What Commonwealth funding is available to Councils?
• What is the ACT framework for preschool child care?
• Economic opportunities in addition to tourism, it being our single industry on which Norfolk’s economy depends.
• Modern Health facilities
• Medicinal marijuana licencing
• Community (all purpose) hall at the school
• Problem with storage of excess power generated through photovoltaics.
‘Council has undertaken to provide Ms Brodtmann with the Community Strategic Plan and the Operational Plan when adopted by Council later this month, as these documents will provide Ms Brodtmann with an understanding of where her efforts to advocate for Commonwealth funding would be best placed. The outcomes from the meeting were positive,’ Mayor Adams said.
Early Education and Child Care Services
‘The General Manager and I are meeting this afternoon with providers of early education businesses on the Island and the School Principal to discuss the issue of how these businesses will be able to meet Australian accreditation standards in the next 3-5 years,’ Mayor Adams said. ‘This is an issue that is causing concern for families with preschool children and the Administrator and I are agreed that the issue is one that requires ongoing collaboration between all parties –Local, State and Commonwealth - to ensure that Norfolk Island is able to provide the community with early child care services into the future.’, Mayor Adams said.
Suicide Prevention and Awareness Day
‘The draft Community Strategic Plan clearly identifies the role of Council to lobby and advocate for public health awareness’, Mayor Adams said, ‘and last Sunday was Suicide Prevention and Awareness Day which was commemorated on Norfolk with over 30 bike riders doing a round-the-Island bike ride to raise awareness of this issue. I extend sincere thanks of councillors to the Mental Health Awareness Group and to Melinda Hassen and Lee Hamilton-Irvine for their community spirit in organising the event and for bringing to the Island, Hamid and Robyn Couri.’
Hamid Couri, an inspiring speaker, is an advocate for raising awareness of the issue of depression and how it can be addressed within communities. Hamid works to raise awareness through his participation in The Black Dog Ride around Australia and the USA.
Visit of consultants and officers from South East Sydney Local Health District and from Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development
Councillors met on Tuesday with consultants from CARRAMAR, a firm of consultants engaged to develop a Norfolk Island Health and Aged Care Clinical Services Plan. They were accompanied by officers from South East Sydney Local Health District and from the Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development.
‘I am very pleased to be able to tell the community that the rumour that the pathology department is closing down is totally incorrect; in fact the Commonwealth is funding the provision of new equipment needed to update the facility’, the Mayor said. ‘It was good for Councillors to hear firsthand what a Multi-Purpose Services (MPS) model is and to learn that Norfolk already aligns in the main with that model.’
“It was also encouraging,’ the Mayor said, ‘to hear the consultants say that they saw Norfolk had the potential to be a showcase for the MPS model, as we move forward.’
Mayor meets with officers from the Department of Agriculture and Water Resources
On Thursday the Mayor met with officers of the Department of Agriculture and Water Resources who are on Island to continue assisting the community to understand the new biosecurity regime in place for Norfolk Island following the application of Commonwealth biosecurity legislation to Norfolk Island from 1 July 2016.
‘It is a matter of the community now needing to accept that there is a new regulatory regime in place for the importation of plants, animals, stock feed etc. and it is in the interest of all of us to learn as quickly as possible how the new system operates so that we can make it work for us, not hinder us,’ the Mayor said. ‘ I raised the need for the Commonwealth, as a matter of priority, to have available easy to understand Factsheets for importers. I am confident that the Biosecurity officers stationed on Island are available and willing to assist the community with addressing any concerns they might have and assisting importers in navigating the permit regime now in place.’
Robin Adams Mayor
9 September 2016
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Norfolk Island Community strategic Plan early feedback on submissions
A big thank you is extended to all members of the community who took time to provide a submission to the Norfolk Island Community Strategic Plan 2016-26 ‘Our Plan for the Future’. ‘The many varied, and some lengthy submissions as well, will take time to go through in detail to determine where, and if, they fit into the Plan, however I would like to provide some early feedback’, Ms Lotta Jackson, General Manager said.
Council received a total of 56 submissions from the community. Two thirds of those submissions asked for Council to include strategies for self-determination within the Community Strategic Plan. The Council Charter outlines the roles of the Council within the legal framework, and states that Council’s key functions are to provide and lobby for adequate services for the community, and to maintain and renew public assets for the benefit of its community.
‘So I have to reiterate what was said at the Public Meeting on 10 August, that a strategy for self-determination cannot be included within the Community Strategic Plan, as it falls outside of the Local Government Framework and is not in line with Council’s Charter’, the General Manager said.
‘The community knows where I stand on the issue of self-determination’, Mayor Adams said, ‘however, in my role as the Mayor of the Regional Council I must ensure that the Council works within the framework of the NSW (NI) Local Government Act and Regulations; and I believe that by establishing a strong local governance base now we will ensure that we have the system and strength needed for becoming the Best Small Island in the World’.
In summary, many of the submissions provided direct input against the various objectives in the Plan and other submissions enhance the objectives, for example:
Environmental
- Supply of rock
- Rural land and food primary production
- Solar power
- Waste management including worm farms and composting
- Keep our water around Norfolk Island sustainable
- Be mindful of overfishing and the potential for drilling
Economic Development
- Diversification - develop Niche markets e.g. lavender farm
- Better internet for business development
- Focus on sustainable tourism
- Use resources for innovation such as ‘Norfolk Islanders abroad’ who may also be involved in education
- Council support of community events and the celebration of all public holidays
- More focus on primary production of food and other items to reduce the need for import
Heritage
- In 2011, 45% of the permanent population was of Pitcairn decent and 38% of the populations ordinary residents including work permit holders was of Pitcairn decent
- Norfolk Island Language and Convict and Pitcairn heritage to be protected
- The immense importance of KAVHA
Community
- Lobby for more medical services – surgery and delivery of babies on the Island
- Lobby for increased support for the aged, people with disabilities, children, youth and families in need of support
- Encourage healthy living and education for preventable health care
- Introduce neighbourhood watch
- Have a space for events, music and concerts
- Include a map of the Island in the Plan
- Immediate focus on Child Care
The full list of submissions and the final Draft of the Norfolk Island Community Strategic Plan 2016-26 ‘Our Plan for the Future’ will be publicly available and be presented for adoption at the September Ordinary Council meeting that will be held on Wednesday, 21 September 2016 at 2pm.
Lotta Jackson
General Manager
02 September 2016
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Documents on Public Exhibition
The following documents have been resolved by Council to be on Public Exhibition:
The documents can be viewed at www.norfolkisland.gov.nf under the ‘Public Exhibition Documents’ link.
For those wanting to make a public submission on any of these document(s) please provide before close of business on the date the public submissions close, shown in the table above. Submissions need to address the content of the document with clear references to specific items or sections within the document.
Submissions can be made via email to regionalcouncil@nirc.gov.nf or posted to ‘Public Exhibition Submissions, Norfolk Island Regional Council, PO Box 95, Norfolk Island, 2899’.
Lotta Jackson
General Manager
02 September 2016
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Keeping the Community informed
VISIT OF GAI BRODTMANN MP
Council and the Executive Management team will be meeting informally with Ms Brodtmann this Saturday, 3 September 2016. ‘We will be discussing matters of mutual concern relating to Norfolk Island. Ms Brodtmann will be accompanied by Ms Alicia Turner who is Ms Brodtmann’s Electorate Officer. I will report on our discussions on next Wednesday’s radio chat’, Mayor Adams said.
Early Education and Child Care Services
‘As I said on radio on Wednesday I am grateful to Ms Rosie Batty during her meeting with Councillors for raising the question of early education and child care services and how we might provide these services into the future. Council has already received a comprehensive submission from one of the current service providers on how the Council could address this issue. So to start that conversation I will be contacting the Principal and the current Directors of each of the child care services on the Island to meet with me late next week. This will allow us to start a conversation on how best Norfolk can cater for our pre-schoolers going forward into the future. This is an issue I will also be raising with Ms Brodtmann when we meet this weekend’, Mayor Adams said.
Robin Adams
Mayor
02 September 2016
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Civica Authority Project Commences
The staff of the Norfolk Island Regional Council have been instrumental in providing knowledge to assist in the design of the new Civica Authority computer system. This new system will be a single point of entry that can manage multiple forms of enquiries allowing Council to streamline its processes, improve efficiency and better meet the needs of the community.
Services such as Development and Building Applications, as well as customer requests will be easily actioned, monitored and reported using this tool. It will also allow the option for all invoices to have bpay options, without changing reference numbers, so there will be one reference per account type that won’t change. The option to have all invoices sent electronically (except rates notices at this stage) will also be available. The introduction of an electronic data management system will allow faster access to information which equates to faster response times to the community, as well as a significant reduction in the need for paper records.
Preliminary work on the Civica Authority project has been underway over the last few weeks with information collection, the setting up of the Civica Authority hardware environment as well as the creation of the Civica Authority Project Office in the Bicentennial building.
The project launched this week with system design workshops involving Council staff across a broad range of areas in the organisation. The Civica Authority project is divided into key areas: Assets, Finance, Services, Revenue, Human Resources, Payroll and document management.
‘Consultants representing Assets, Revenue and Services have been on the island this week to speak with as many Council stakeholders as possible in these areas. I thank the staff that have been involved so far for their time with the design engagement process. The feedback received so far is that they are enjoying the opportunity to engage with the consultants to have input into the design of the new software. The software is used in many mainland Australian Council’s and will help the Norfolk Island Regional Council to continually improve services to the community,’ Ms Lotta Jackson said.
Next week, design workshops will be held for Human Resources and Payroll and the following
two weeks for Finance. It is a large project and periodic updates will be provided to the
community as the project progresses. Systems will start to go live in the first quarter of 2017.
The Council asks for the community’s patience whilst these changes are being implemented.
Lotta Jackson
General Manager
02 September 2016
General Manager
02 September 2016
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Planning and Building moves forward
General Manager of the Norfolk Island Regional Council, Ms Lotta Jackson, is pleased to announce that the Planning and Building Section is taking shape within the new Regional Council structure, with the recent appointment of local resident Neil Boler as Building Inspector and Compliance Officer. Neil brings many years of experience in the construction industry in New Zealand and Australia to this position. Neil joins Jodie Brown, Planner, and Gizelle Sanders, Administration and Planning Assistant, in the Planning and Building Office at Kingston – however Neil expects he will spend most of his time outdoors on site working with the construction industry teams.
The core responsibilities of the Planning and Building Section are:
Providing information and advice on land use, planning and development proposals; and on assessment and approval requirements and pathways;
Assessment of Development Applications and issuing Development Approvals;
Strategic Land Use Planning – Norfolk Island Plan and supporting codes and policies;
Issuing Building Approvals and inspecting all stages of buildings under construction;
Monitoring and enforcing compliance with approvals and general planning and land use requirements.
When assessing applications and issuing approvals, the team in Planning and Building works closely with staff in various other sections of the Council, in particular, Saati Divekar, Manager Local Services and Assets, for construction engineering expertise and infrastructure coordination and requirements; and PJ Wilson, Health and Water Officer, for environmental engineering expertise including potable water management, effluent treatment and public health management, such as food premises licensing and inspections.
It is anticipated that during 2017, Norfolk Island’s planning and building systems will be updated with the aim to improve development assessment and approval processes. The reforms will more than likely be based on changes to planning and building systems in New South Wales that improved efficiencies and helped to stimulate growth. However, a key objective of planning reform in Norfolk Island is to take local circumstances into account and maintain local management and decision making, as well as ensuring an emphasis on the protection of biophysical, social and cultural environmental values.
General Manager Norfolk Island Regional Council Quality Row, Kingston, Norfolk Island 2899 telephone: +6723 22001; email: regionalcouncil@nirc.gov.nf
Calls for community comment and input to kick start our local planning and building reform will be announced in coming months. Meanwhile, any questions or enquiries on planning, building and development matters can be made to the Planning Office on telephone 23595.
Lotta Jackson
General Manager
26 August 2016
When assessing applications and issuing approvals, the team in Planning and Building works closely with staff in various other sections of the Council, in particular, Saati Divekar, Manager Local Services and Assets, for construction engineering expertise and infrastructure coordination and requirements; and PJ Wilson, Health and Water Officer, for environmental engineering expertise including potable water management, effluent treatment and public health management, such as food premises licensing and inspections.
It is anticipated that during 2017, Norfolk Island’s planning and building systems will be updated with the aim to improve development assessment and approval processes. The reforms will more than likely be based on changes to planning and building systems in New South Wales that improved efficiencies and helped to stimulate growth. However, a key objective of planning reform in Norfolk Island is to take local circumstances into account and maintain local management and decision making, as well as ensuring an emphasis on the protection of biophysical, social and cultural environmental values.
General Manager Norfolk Island Regional Council Quality Row, Kingston, Norfolk Island 2899 telephone: +6723 22001; email: regionalcouncil@nirc.gov.nf
Calls for community comment and input to kick start our local planning and building reform will be announced in coming months. Meanwhile, any questions or enquiries on planning, building and development matters can be made to the Planning Office on telephone 23595.
Lotta Jackson
General Manager
26 August 2016
Please 'contact us' for more information.
Keeping the Community Informed
FEES AND CHARGES FOR WASTE MANAGEMENT – HAVE YOUR SAY!
Council has been asked to consider a new charging regime for dropping off general household garbage at the Waste Management Centre. Currently there is no charge at time of drop off. The proposal is –
‘Council at its meeting last week agreed the formation of a Waste Management Advisory Committee whose terms of reference and membership will be settled at Council’s September meeting,’ Mayor Adams said, ‘Council encourages members of the community to make submissions on this proposal which will be referred to the Committee for its consideration and recommendation to Council’.
“IT’S TIME TO START A CONVERSATION”
‘It was a rewarding experience for me personally to have had the opportunity to meet with Ms Rosie Batty both at the breakfast hosted by the Norfolk Island Mental Health Awareness Group Friday morning at The Golden Orb and at the afternoon tea hosted by Council at Paradise Hotel that afternoon’, Mayor Adams said, ‘and I thank WAGNI for having facilitated Rosie’s visit to Norfolk. Rosie came to start a conversation on Norfolk and I am sure each of us who participated in that conversation with her will have taken from it what each of us needed to hear.
‘For me personally,’ the Mayor said, ‘the following taken from the back cover of Rosie’s book says it all – “We are all on a journey, and we all have things to learn. None of us knows what is around the corner, and it’s what you learn from the experiences that life deals you that defines that journey. In my case, that’s whether you gain wisdom and insight or whether you stay bitter and angry”. Rosie Batty Australian of the Year January 2015
‘Norfolk too is on a journey’, Mayor Adams said, ‘and Council looks forward to having many conversations with the Norfolk community as we take that journey forward together’.
General Manager Norfolk Island Regional Council Quality Row, Kingston, Norfolk Island 2899 telephone: +6723 22001; email: regionalcouncil@nirc.gov.nf
ROADWORKS ON TAYLORS ROAD FROM CHANNERS CORNER
Mayor Adams on Radio Norfolk this week responded to questions from the community ‘what is the hold up with the roadworks on Taylors Road from Channers Corner, and when will it be completed?’
‘From my discussions with the Group Manager Services, Mr Bruce Taylor, I can advise that sealing of the road is held up because Council staff recently identified issues with the sewer system and drainage in the area,’ Mayor Adams said. ‘It is hoped that these issues will be addressed shortly so that the resealing can commence. I know we would all agree that the sewer/drainage issue needs to be addressed first so we don’t have to rip up the road yet again.
‘The question has also been asked how far the new sealing will extend,’ the Mayor said. ‘Council is working towards resealing and curbing up to the entrance to Norfolk Village to join up to the curbing put in place in the original Burnt Pine Upgrade with funding for this work coming from the balance of the $500,000 provided by the Commonwealth and from funds budgeted by Council in this financial year for roadworks. We will keep you posted.’
Robin Adams Mayor
26 August 2016
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Planning and Building moves forward
General Manager of the Norfolk Island Regional Council, Ms Lotta Jackson, is pleased to announce that the Planning and Building Section is taking shape within the new Regional Council structure, with the recent appointment of local resident Neil Boler as Building Inspector and Compliance Officer. Neil brings many years of experience in the construction industry in New Zealand and Australia to this position. Neil joins Jodie Brown, Planner, and Gizelle Sanders, Administration and Planning Assistant, in the Planning and Building Office at Kingston – however Neil expects he will spend most of his time outdoors on site working with the construction industry teams.
The core responsibilities of the Planning and Building Section are:
Providing information and advice on land use, planning and development proposals; and on assessment and approval requirements and pathways;
Assessment of Development Applications and issuing Development Approvals;
Strategic Land Use Planning – Norfolk Island Plan and supporting codes and policies;
Issuing Building Approvals and inspecting all stages of buildings under construction;
Monitoring and enforcing compliance with approvals and general planning and land use requirements.
When assessing applications and issuing approvals, the team in Planning and Building works closely with staff in various other sections of the Council, in particular, Saati Divekar, Manager Local Services and Assets, for construction engineering expertise and infrastructure coordination and requirements; and PJ Wilson, Health and Water Officer, for environmental engineering expertise including potable water management, effluent treatment and public health management, such as food premises licensing and inspections.
It is anticipated that during 2017, Norfolk Island’s planning and building systems will be updated with the aim to improve development assessment and approval processes. The reforms will more than likely be based on changes to planning and building systems in New South Wales that improved efficiencies and helped to stimulate growth. However, a key objective of planning reform in Norfolk Island is to take local circumstances into account and maintain local management and decision making, as well as ensuring an emphasis on the protection of biophysical, social and cultural environmental values.
General Manager Norfolk Island Regional Council Quality Row, Kingston, Norfolk Island 2899 telephone: +6723 22001; email: regionalcouncil@nirc.gov.nf
Calls for community comment and input to kick start our local planning and building reform will be announced in coming months. Meanwhile, any questions or enquiries on planning, building and development matters can be made to the Planning Office on telephone 23595.
Lotta Jackson
General Manager
26 August 2016
When assessing applications and issuing approvals, the team in Planning and Building works closely with staff in various other sections of the Council, in particular, Saati Divekar, Manager Local Services and Assets, for construction engineering expertise and infrastructure coordination and requirements; and PJ Wilson, Health and Water Officer, for environmental engineering expertise including potable water management, effluent treatment and public health management, such as food premises licensing and inspections.
It is anticipated that during 2017, Norfolk Island’s planning and building systems will be updated with the aim to improve development assessment and approval processes. The reforms will more than likely be based on changes to planning and building systems in New South Wales that improved efficiencies and helped to stimulate growth. However, a key objective of planning reform in Norfolk Island is to take local circumstances into account and maintain local management and decision making, as well as ensuring an emphasis on the protection of biophysical, social and cultural environmental values.
General Manager Norfolk Island Regional Council Quality Row, Kingston, Norfolk Island 2899 telephone: +6723 22001; email: regionalcouncil@nirc.gov.nf
Calls for community comment and input to kick start our local planning and building reform will be announced in coming months. Meanwhile, any questions or enquiries on planning, building and development matters can be made to the Planning Office on telephone 23595.
Lotta Jackson
General Manager
26 August 2016
Please 'contact us' for more information.
Planning and Building moves forward
General Manager of the Norfolk Island Regional Council, Ms Lotta Jackson, is pleased to announce that the Planning and Building Section is taking shape within the new Regional Council structure, with the recent appointment of local resident Neil Boler as Building Inspector and Compliance Officer. Neil brings many years of experience in the construction industry in New Zealand and Australia to this position. Neil joins Jodie Brown, Planner, and Gizelle Sanders, Administration and Planning Assistant, in the Planning and Building Office at Kingston – however Neil expects he will spend most of his time outdoors on site working with the construction industry teams.
The core responsibilities of the Planning and Building Section are:
Providing information and advice on land use, planning and development proposals; and on assessment and approval requirements and pathways;
Assessment of Development Applications and issuing Development Approvals;
Strategic Land Use Planning – Norfolk Island Plan and supporting codes and policies;
Issuing Building Approvals and inspecting all stages of buildings under construction;
Monitoring and enforcing compliance with approvals and general planning and land use requirements.
When assessing applications and issuing approvals, the team in Planning and Building works closely with staff in various other sections of the Council, in particular, Saati Divekar, Manager Local Services and Assets, for construction engineering expertise and infrastructure coordination and requirements; and PJ Wilson, Health and Water Officer, for environmental engineering expertise including potable water management, effluent treatment and public health management, such as food premises licensing and inspections.
It is anticipated that during 2017, Norfolk Island’s planning and building systems will be updated with the aim to improve development assessment and approval processes. The reforms will more than likely be based on changes to planning and building systems in New South Wales that improved efficiencies and helped to stimulate growth. However, a key objective of planning reform in Norfolk Island is to take local circumstances into account and maintain local management and decision making, as well as ensuring an emphasis on the protection of biophysical, social and cultural environmental values.
General Manager Norfolk Island Regional Council Quality Row, Kingston, Norfolk Island 2899 telephone: +6723 22001; email: regionalcouncil@nirc.gov.nf
Calls for community comment and input to kick start our local planning and building reform will be announced in coming months. Meanwhile, any questions or enquiries on planning, building and development matters can be made to the Planning Office on telephone 23595.
Lotta Jackson
General Manager
26 August 2016
When assessing applications and issuing approvals, the team in Planning and Building works closely with staff in various other sections of the Council, in particular, Saati Divekar, Manager Local Services and Assets, for construction engineering expertise and infrastructure coordination and requirements; and PJ Wilson, Health and Water Officer, for environmental engineering expertise including potable water management, effluent treatment and public health management, such as food premises licensing and inspections.
It is anticipated that during 2017, Norfolk Island’s planning and building systems will be updated with the aim to improve development assessment and approval processes. The reforms will more than likely be based on changes to planning and building systems in New South Wales that improved efficiencies and helped to stimulate growth. However, a key objective of planning reform in Norfolk Island is to take local circumstances into account and maintain local management and decision making, as well as ensuring an emphasis on the protection of biophysical, social and cultural environmental values.
General Manager Norfolk Island Regional Council Quality Row, Kingston, Norfolk Island 2899 telephone: +6723 22001; email: regionalcouncil@nirc.gov.nf
Calls for community comment and input to kick start our local planning and building reform will be announced in coming months. Meanwhile, any questions or enquiries on planning, building and development matters can be made to the Planning Office on telephone 23595.
Lotta Jackson
General Manager
26 August 2016
Please 'contact us' for more information.
NORFOLK ISLAND REGIONAL COUNCIL - KEEPING THE COMMUNITY INFORMED
PUBLIC ACCESS TO COUNCIL BY MEMBERS OF THE COMMUNITY
The Council’s Code of Meeting Practice provides the opportunity for Members of the community to make application to address Council on any issue on the Business Paper for a Council Meeting. ‘Council thanks Mr Rael Donde, President of the Accommodation and Tourism Association (the ATA) who, on behalf of the ATA, was the first to take up the opportunity to address Council at its meeting on Wednesday on the motions being proposed by Councillor Snell,’ Mayor Adams said, ‘motions which seek to adopt the Tourism Strategic Plan and to establish a Tourism Advisory Committee; and as Mr Donde said these two motions indicate recognition by Council of its important role in Tourism’.
Mr Donde spoke about the key challenges to implement the Tourism Strategic Plan (the Plan) which he said included –
Lack of funding by the Commonwealth Government to implement the Plan;
Insufficient Tourism Budget to implement the Plan and the under resourcing of Norfolk Tourism without the General Manager;
Ensuring Tourism Budget is not diverted to other Council needs;
The need for the Commonwealth to be a real Stakeholder in the Plan and Advisory Committee;
Participation in the implementation by Commonwealth agencies such as KAVHA, National Parks Board, Tourism Australia, and state agencies (possibly Destination NSW);
The need for clear delineation of responsibilities (Administrator, Council Group Management, Norfolk Island Tourism, Destination NSW, Tourism Advisory Committee);
Ensuring Accommodation Sector is not disadvantaged with higher council rates, which means less capacity to spend on marketing.
‘Council looks forward at future Council meetings to having more participation by the community in this public forum,’ Mayor Adams said.
FILMING OF COUNCIL
Having received the endorsement of Council that the meeting be filmed, Mayor Adams welcomed Senior Correspondent Dan Rivers from Independent Television News (ITV) who has travelled from the UK to investigate how Norfolk is dealing with the transition to the new governance arrangements. Mr Rivers was joined by Leslie White who took footage of the proceedings for possible inclusion in a documentary titled ‘On Assignment: Norfolk Island.’
General Manager Norfolk Island Regional Council Quality Row, Kingston, Norfolk Island 2899 telephone: +6723 22001; email: regionalcouncil@nirc.gov.nf
THE COUNCIL HAS AGREED A LOGO
Some weeks ago the community was invited to submit designs for a logo for the Norfolk Island Regional Council – a logo that represents the Norfolk Island community.
‘Council thanks those in the community who submitted designs of such a high calibre,’ Mayor Adams said, ‘and it gives me pleasure on behalf of Council to congratulate Ms Natasha Arnold for having submitted the winning design using the red tailed tropic bird flying sideway towards a young Norfolk Island Pine.’
For the benefit of the community members present at the Council meeting Mayor Adams read the following submission from Ms Arnold that accompanied her design.
‘These designs represent a tropic bird in flight. The red tailed tropic bird is very significant to Norfolk Island and can be found at several distinct spots around the cliff tops where they nest. They are a very striking bird and – like many born and bred Norfolk Islanders – are strongly connected to both the land and the sea. By that I mean the bird feels safe and comfortable on our shores, yet adventurous and brave enough to explore new territories and elsewhere as part of life’s journey. Something I am sure many locals can identify with.
Having received the endorsement of Council that the meeting be filmed, Mayor Adams welcomed Senior Correspondent Dan Rivers from Independent Television News (ITV) who has travelled from the UK to investigate how Norfolk is dealing with the transition to the new governance arrangements. Mr Rivers was joined by Leslie White who took footage of the proceedings for possible inclusion in a documentary titled ‘On Assignment: Norfolk Island.’
General Manager Norfolk Island Regional Council Quality Row, Kingston, Norfolk Island 2899 telephone: +6723 22001; email: regionalcouncil@nirc.gov.nf
THE COUNCIL HAS AGREED A LOGO
Some weeks ago the community was invited to submit designs for a logo for the Norfolk Island Regional Council – a logo that represents the Norfolk Island community.
‘Council thanks those in the community who submitted designs of such a high calibre,’ Mayor Adams said, ‘and it gives me pleasure on behalf of Council to congratulate Ms Natasha Arnold for having submitted the winning design using the red tailed tropic bird flying sideway towards a young Norfolk Island Pine.’
‘These designs represent a tropic bird in flight. The red tailed tropic bird is very significant to Norfolk Island and can be found at several distinct spots around the cliff tops where they nest. They are a very striking bird and – like many born and bred Norfolk Islanders – are strongly connected to both the land and the sea. By that I mean the bird feels safe and comfortable on our shores, yet adventurous and brave enough to explore new territories and elsewhere as part of life’s journey. Something I am sure many locals can identify with.
‘Also the thought behind having a bird in flight aiming for the sky can be another representation of showing growth and a way forward for the future.
‘Having a vibrantly coloured young pine as part of the image/logo, I thought would set it off and be a good contrast. A young, strong, healthy looking pine could again come to be seen as a way Norfolk can stay young at heart, strong right to the core, and healthy because of its beautiful and unique environment, which of course must be protected and continue to be taken care of for future generations of Islanders to enjoy what we now do. The roots of the pine also spread down deep into the heart, providing stability, understanding of the Norfolk Island heritage, and again strength in an individual sense but also in a community; respectfully sharing the earth and ground with others.’
Robin Adams
Mayor
19 August 2016
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NORFOLK ISLAND REGIONAL COUNCIL - ORDINARY COUNCIL MEETING – 17 AUGUST 2016
The Norfolk Island Regional Council held their second Ordinary Council meeting on Wednesday, 17 August at 2:00pm in the Council Chambers in Burnt Pine.
DOCUMENTS ON PUBLIC EXHIBITION
Council resolved to put the ‘Draft Operational Plan for 2016/17’ and the ‘Schedule of fees and charges in legislation and regulations and charges for administration services and hire fees’ on public exhibition on Council’s website www.norfolkisland.gov.nf under the ‘Public Exhibition Documents Link’, the Library and Telecom until 15 September 2016.
‘For those wanting to make a public submission on any of these documents please provide before close of business on 15 September via email to regionalcouncil@nirc.gov.nf or post to “Public Exhibition Submissions, Norfolk Island Regional Council, PO Box 95, Norfolk Island, 2899”’, Lotta Jackson said.
AUDIT COMMITTEE Council resolved to adopt the Norfolk Island Regional Council Audit Committee Charter and nominated Cr Rod Buffett to be a member of the Audit Committee. The Group Manager Governance will soon be calling for Expressions of Interest for two Independent Audit Committee members. The Audit Committee plays a key role in providing the Council with an independent oversight and monitoring of the Council’s audit processes, including internal and external audits, external reporting, risk management activities and business assurance reviews and activities.
ADOPTED POLICIES
There was additional business covered at the Council meeting and the full minutes are available on www.norfolkisland.gov.nf under the ‘Council Meetings’ link.
Lotta Jackson General Manager
‘For those wanting to make a public submission on any of these documents please provide before close of business on 15 September via email to regionalcouncil@nirc.gov.nf or post to “Public Exhibition Submissions, Norfolk Island Regional Council, PO Box 95, Norfolk Island, 2899”’, Lotta Jackson said.
APPOINTMENT OF COUNCIL ADVISORY COMMITTEES
‘A great avenue for the community to assist and be involved in Council matters is through Council Advisory Committees. From the meeting last Wednesday we now have four such committees. A Tourism Advisory Committee, a Waste Management Advisory Committee, a Public Reserves Advisory Committee and a Rock Feed Source Advisory Committee. The full terms of reference for each of these Advisory Committees will be presented at the September 2016 Council meeting’, Lotta Jackson said.
AUDIT COMMITTEE Council resolved to adopt the Norfolk Island Regional Council Audit Committee Charter and nominated Cr Rod Buffett to be a member of the Audit Committee. The Group Manager Governance will soon be calling for Expressions of Interest for two Independent Audit Committee members. The Audit Committee plays a key role in providing the Council with an independent oversight and monitoring of the Council’s audit processes, including internal and external audits, external reporting, risk management activities and business assurance reviews and activities.
ADOPTED POLICIES
Council adopted a number of policies and these can be found at www.norfolkisland.gov.nf/NIRC_Council_Meetings/Agendas/ and include – ‘Community Donations’; ‘Oversight of the General Manager by the Mayor’; and ‘Secondary Employment Policy’.
There was additional business covered at the Council meeting and the full minutes are available on www.norfolkisland.gov.nf under the ‘Council Meetings’ link.
Lotta Jackson General Manager
Please 'contact us' for more information.
NORFOLK ISLAND REGIONAL COUNCIL - KEEPING THE COMMUNITY INFORMED
The Norfolk Island Community Strategic Plan
In opening the community meeting on Wednesday Mayor Adams took the opportunity to introduce to the community the newly appointed members of the senior management team of the Norfolk Island Regional Council - Ms Lotta Jackson General Manager; Ms Lisa Jackson, Group Manager Governance; Mr John van Gaalen Group Manager Commercial Hub; and Mr Bruce Taylor, Group Manager Services.
Mayor Adams made the following opening remarks – ‘I want to reaffirm the important point that I made in my first talk on radio three weeks ago and in the local paper as Mayor, that no matter what your views are on what Norfolk’s governance model should be going forward into the future, it is essential that the Regional Council operate as efficiently and strategically as it can within the current governance framework to achieve a viable and economically sustainable future for the Island and its people.
‘I believe that all Councillors are committed to working to achieve that goal notwithstanding the challenges that lie ahead. No-one said that it was going to be easy but our success depends on all of us pulling together to get the best outcome that we can at this time.’
The General Manager presented the Strategic Plan through a power point presentation and offered the community the opportunity to ask questions and put forward their views.
“It was evident from the meeting,” Mayor Adams said, “That the community’s expectations from the meeting may not have been fully met at this time but I hope that I made it clear that Council continues to welcome written submissions or one on one discussion with councillors for those who prefer dialogue rather than putting pen to paper”. Mayor Adams stressed the closing date for a submission is Friday 19 August.
Tourism remains the principal driver of the economy on Norfolk Island
Speaking on radio last Wednesday Mayor Adams reaffirmed that Tourism remains the principal driver of the economy on Norfolk Island and of the need to actively drive forward the Tourism Strategic Plan adopted by the 14th Legislative Assembly.
‘The internet is a wonderful research tool,’ Mayor Adams said, ‘and it was encouraging to find on the NSW Local Government website the following, from which I quote:
“Local Government plays a major role in tourism and is engaged in tourism in many ways. Councils are actively involved in promoting tourism, providing infrastructure and services to support tourism, but also in managing the impacts of tourism.
Tourism is an important driver of economic development and employment growth but it also has impacts on communities and the environment that need to be managed.”
Local Government NSW has for 10 years now staged successful annual Local Government tourism conferences and last year the conference was hosted by Byron and Ballina Councils. I will be discussing with the General Manager the possibility of Norfolk Island offering to host the Conference in 2018.’
Council next meets on Wednesday 17 August 2016 at 2 pm
Public Access at Council meetings
The Council’s Meeting Code of Practice provides the opportunity for people to apply to address Council on any matter which is listed for consideration on Council’s business agenda.
‘Public access at Council meetings is something new for Norfolk,’ Mayor Adams said on radio last Wednesday, ‘and of course there are rules that must be observed. For starters, application to address Council must be made in writing to the General Manager by 5 pm on the Monday prior to the meeting so for our meeting on the 17th an application must be made by next Monday 15 August. The application must give details of the matter to be raised and it lies with the General Manager and me to decide whether the applicant is entitled to speak. Normally there is a time limit of five minutes per speaker and no more than six addresses would be permitted for any one meeting.’
Mayoral Minute for the Council meeting
Readers will recall that in an earlier media release Mayor Adams spoke about the “Mayoral Minute” which gives the Mayor the opportunity to bring forward a matter that he or she would otherwise be precluded from bringing up in other business when chairing the meeting.
‘It is my intention on Wednesday,’ Mayor Adams said, ‘to use the Mayoral Minute to seek Council’s endorsement that the film crew of ‘IVT-By Arrangement ”Norfolk Island’ have access to the Council Chambers to take footage of the meeting of Council’.
Public Access at Council meetings
The Council’s Meeting Code of Practice provides the opportunity for people to apply to address Council on any matter which is listed for consideration on Council’s business agenda.
‘Public access at Council meetings is something new for Norfolk,’ Mayor Adams said on radio last Wednesday, ‘and of course there are rules that must be observed. For starters, application to address Council must be made in writing to the General Manager by 5 pm on the Monday prior to the meeting so for our meeting on the 17th an application must be made by next Monday 15 August. The application must give details of the matter to be raised and it lies with the General Manager and me to decide whether the applicant is entitled to speak. Normally there is a time limit of five minutes per speaker and no more than six addresses would be permitted for any one meeting.’
Mayoral Minute for the Council meeting
Readers will recall that in an earlier media release Mayor Adams spoke about the “Mayoral Minute” which gives the Mayor the opportunity to bring forward a matter that he or she would otherwise be precluded from bringing up in other business when chairing the meeting.
‘It is my intention on Wednesday,’ Mayor Adams said, ‘to use the Mayoral Minute to seek Council’s endorsement that the film crew of ‘IVT-By Arrangement ”Norfolk Island’ have access to the Council Chambers to take footage of the meeting of Council’.
Lotta Jackson
General Manager
12 August 2016
General Manager
12 August 2016
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NORFOLK ISLAND REGIONAL COUNCIL - ORDINARY COUNCIL MEETING – 17 August 2016
The second Ordinary Council meeting of the Norfolk Island Regional Council will be held on Wednesday, 17 August at 2:00pm in the Council Chambers in Burnt Pine.
‘The agenda contains many important and interesting items’, said Ms. Jackson such as the Draft Operational Plan 2016/2017 Activities, Community Donations, Expenditure Authority in Emergencies, Oversight of the General Manager, and the selection of the Norfolk Island Regional Council Logo.
This is followed by items in respect of Governance policies including the draft Audit Committee Charter and the recommended Fees and Charges for 2016/2017.
The meeting is open to the public with seating for those wishing to attend. The public may arrange to speak on any item on the agenda as part of the Public Access session by contacting Council on 22001 Ext 128 or via email to - gaye.evans@nirc.gov.nf , by 5pm on Monday 15 August. All potential speakers must state what item on the agenda they will address. The time limit is for a maximum of 5 minutes per speaker. All speakers are to address the Council courteously and must only speak on the topic of the item as submitted.
The Business Paper Agenda and attachments can be found on Council’s web-page www.norfolkisalnd.gov.nf , then by following the link from ‘Council Meetings’, then ‘Council Meeting Agendas’, and hard copies can be viewed at the Library.
Lotta Jackson
General Manager
12 August 2016
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NORFOLK ISLAND REGIONAL COUNCIL - PUBLIC MEETING ON THE COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN
A meeting with approximately 130 community members in attendance was held last Wednesday 10 August to provide an overview of the Community Strategic Plan and its importance to the new Council and the community. This presentation complements the public consultation process that commenced in April this year.
The Mayor took the opportunity to introduce the Norfolk Island Regional Council executive team, starting with the General Manager Lotta Jackson who conducted the presentation, and then Lisa Jackson (Group Manager Governance) John Van Gaalen (Group Manager Community Hub) and Bruce Taylor (Group Manager Services).
The Mayor highlighted the extensive responsibility areas of each Group Manager where Lisa is responsible for the following functions in Council: Reform Management; Integrated & Corporate Planning; Risk & Internal Audit; Governance; Policy development; Records, Public Information; Legal Court Support; Local Radio Station; Economic Development, Tourism Museums and Library.
John is responsible for Customer Services; Human Resources; Knowledge Management (Information Technology); Administration Services; Registry Office - Land and Companies; Finance; Commercial Support; Accounts Receivable; Payroll, Grants and Logistics.
Bruce is responsible for the challenging functions of Waste and Environment; Public Works; Roads & Open Spaces; Building & Grounds Maintenance; Noxious weeds; Cemetery; Forestry; Emergency Services; Electricity; Telecommunications; Retail Operations (supply of Rock and Tanalith); Liquor Bond; Contracted Services; Lighterage; Ports; Airport; Building and Development and Mechanics. A very busy team indeed!
Ms Jackson provided information on the draft Strategic Plan and how the community can be involved, highlighting that the Plan has 6 Strategic Directions:
An environmentally sustainable community
A proud, diverse and inclusive community
A caring community
A successful and innovative community
An informed and accountable community
A healthy and safe community
The Strategic Directions are underpinned by 13 Objectives and Ms Jackson emphasized that the Norfolk Island plan had a strong theme of social and cultural inclusion and connectivity as well as a key focus on protecting the environment.
The presentation was followed by questions from the audience and many members of the community took the opportunity to have their say.
In closing, the meeting Ms. Jackson thanked the community for their attendance and participation during question time, and she said, “I look forward to working with the community in implementing the strategies of the plan over time”.
The community was reminded that the third draft of the Norfolk Island Strategic Plan can be viewed from the NIRC website - www.norfolkisland.gov.nf , follow the links from ‘Public Exhibition Documents’. The Mayor further informed the community that ‘submissions are welcome until 19 August 2016’ and can be submitted by post to “Public Exhibition Submissions, Norfolk Island Regional Council, PO Box 95, 2899” or via email to gaye.evans@nirc.gov.nf .
Lotta Jackson
General Manager
12 August 2016
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NORFOLK ISLAND REGIONAL COUNCIL - INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINARY RATE
On 5 May 2016 the Local Government Act 1993 (NSW) (the Act) was amended allowing specific provisions for the introduction of an ordinary land rate for Norfolk Island. On 20 July 2016 the Norfolk Island Regional Council placed a recommended rating model on public exhibition for 28 days and if no submissions are received, the model becomes the rating structure for the Norfolk Island Regional Council 2016/2017.
The proposed rating model is currently on public exhibition until 19 August 2016 and community members are invited to lodge submissions to ‘Public Submissions, Norfolk Island Regional Council, PO Box 95, Norfolk Island, 2899’ or email gaye.evans@nirc.gov.nf. The proposed model can be found at www.norfolkisland.gov.nf/NIRC_Council_Meetings/PublicExhibitDocs and is also copied below.
The proposed model has three categories for ordinary rates - farmland, residential and business, with each of these having sub-categories. Ratepayers will have the option of paying their rates as one annual sum or in quarterly instalments. There are concessions on the rateable amount to avoid hardship and for eligible pensioners. Eligible pensioners are charged half the ordinary rate.
The ordinary rate for 2016/2017 will be a non-value based rates system with the Act requiring Council to raise $500,000 in rating revenue for the first rateable year, and then a minimum of $1,000,000 for subsequent years. For 2016/2017 categorisation of rateable land will be conducted by the Norfolk Island Regional Council. Work is continuing to move to a value based rating system and a new model may be available for consideration by the elected Council for the 2017/2018 year.
Each rateable land owner will receive in the very near future, a notice advising them of the rating category and sub-category of their land. Landowners are able to seek a review of their category by applying to the Council, in the first instance.
‘Revenue from rates is an important component of a Council’s budget. The revenue raised will contribute to Council expenses such as the upkeep of roads and buildings, contributions towards Tourism and maintenance of public areas, including picnic areas, sports fields and reserves which we all enjoy using,’ Ms Lotta Jackson said.
Lotta Jackson
General Manager
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NORFOLK ISLAND REGIONAL COUNCIL - GST IN NORFOLK TELECOM INVOICES
Norfolk Telecom customers are advised that their July 2016 Telecom invoice incorrectly included a GST component. The GST amount that appears on the July invoice will be credited to customers’ accounts in the August 2016 invoice.
The Norfolk Island Regional Council sincerely apologises for any inconvenience caused.
Norfolk Telecom fees and charges, excluding GST, have been reviewed and it will be recommended to Council at the August Council meeting that these fees and charges be increased to cover the cost of the service during the year.
For any enquiries please contact the Customer Care Team on 22244 or email customercare@nirc.gov.nf.
Please note: this media release issued on 5 August 2016 and titled ‘GST in Norfolk Telecom Invoices’ contains further information and supersedes the media release that was issued on 2 August 2016 titled ‘Telecom Invoices’. Therefore, please disregard the ‘Telecom Invoices’ 2 August 2016 media release.
Lotta Jackson
General Manager
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NORFOLK ISLAND REGIONAL COUNCIL - THE GRAND WASTE PLAN
As you are aware, Council staff is commencing the large task of moving towards minimising waste and having zero waste disposal at Headstone.
A recent study identified that 85% of the island’s waste can be processed sustainably on island. The below diagram shows the waste management hierarchy that everyone in the community can start to follow. If we can all make a concerted effort to minimise and reuse our waste, then in turn we will reduce the impact on our environment and lessen the financial burden on our community.
‘To reach the stage where we actually do reduce waste and are able to process recyclables on the island, we will need to cover the cost of waste management. Currently the waste fund is in deficit, which is not sustainable. Waste is everyone’s responsibility and the waste management levy is clearly not covering the cost of Waste Management. Subsequently it would be irresponsible if Council didn’t look at ways of covering this shortfall,’ said Ms Lotta Jackson.
The community should also be made aware that the funding that was granted to the Administration of Norfolk Island for a high temperature incinerator is no longer available. The recent study did not recommend the incineration of any waste streams and has identified a number of risks associated with air and water quality and the island’s ability to process the ash by-product.
The Council is looking into future funding opportunities for the management of waste on Norfolk Island. The community should be assured that the Council has a way forward and a commitment to cease the ocean outfall of all waste within 1-2 years.
General Manager Norfolk Island Regional Council Quality Row, Kingston, Norfolk Island 2899 telephone: +6723 22001; email: regionalcouncil@nirc.gov.nf
If anyone has a bright idea on how to minimise waste let Council know at regionalcouncil@nirc.gov.nf or send a letter addressed to the General Manger, PO Box 95, Norfolk Island, 2899.
Lotta Jackson
General Manager
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NORFOLK ISLAND REGIONAL COUNCIL - KEEPING THE COMMUNITY INFORMED THE 2016 CENSUS ON NORFOLK ISLAND
Mayor Adams spoke on radio this week about the upcoming Census to be conducted on Norfolk Island on Tuesday, 9 August.
‘This time Norfolk Island is being included in the Census being conducted by the Australian Bureau of Statistics whilst in previous years Norfolk's Census was conducted under Norfolk Island legislation,’ Mayor Adams said, ‘and I have had a number of very encouraging discussions with Mrs Alice Rogers who has been engaged by the Australian Bureau of Statistics as Norfolk Island's Area Supervisor for the Census. Alice was the successful applicant when Expressions of Interest were invited by the ABS some time ago. She is being assisted in the distribution of Census Forms to households on Norfolk by Ms Tania Randall, Mrs Megan Magri and Mrs Jeanette Cassidy.
‘Mrs Rogers tells me that the ABS is very culturally aware and is to be applauded for their sensitivity and response to Norfolk Islander's concerns that their identity will be lost by their inclusion in the Australian Census; that the ABS has understood Norfolk's distinctiveness and the importance of collecting information unique to Norfolk Island; in particular the need to recognise the Norfolk Island language and the number of Norfolk Island people of Pitcairn descent, both on Island and in Australia,’ Mayor Adams said.
‘The ABS recognises that we are different and of the need to recognise that difference and I thank our Area Supervisor Alice Rogers whom I know has played a key role in achieving this recognition. Alice has asked me to mention that the procedure being used for dropping off Census forms to Norfolk householders is also unique as Tania, Megan and Jeanette will be making every effort to speak with householders and explain the opportunities when completing the Census form for them to record their Pitcairn ancestry and heritage.
‘So how’, Mayor Adams said, ‘will the Norfolk Islanders be recognised when they complete their Census forms? Well firstly in the pack of Census material delivered to your home is a Census Household Form and at the top of the Census Household Form on the left hand side you will see a 10 digit Code number. The ABS computer will recognise that number as a Census form coming from Norfolk Island.
‘Secondly in each pack of Census material is a separate form headed The 2016 Census on Norfolk Island’, Mayor Adams said, ‘this form, which is only being distributed to people on Norfolk Island, provides guidance on how to fill out the main Census form so that there is recognition of being born on Norfolk Island; being of Pitcairn descent; speaking the Norfolk Island language; identifying whether your Mother or Father were born on Norfolk Island; and identifying your ancestry as Pitcairn. Two new codes have been created by the ABS in their data base - one to recognise Norf'k/Pitcairn as a language; the other to record people of Pitcairn ancestry/descent in the Polynesian group.’
General Manager Norfolk Island Regional Council Quality Row, Kingston, Norfolk Island 2899 telephone: +6723 22001; email: regionalcouncil@nirc.gov.nf
Mayor Adams went on to explain that whilst the form The 2016 Census on Norfolk Island is only being distributed to households on Norfolk, that Ms Rogers has also arranged for it to be posted on Facebook by Norfolk Online so the opportunity is there for people to spread the message and the information form far and wide to family and friends living in Australia to encourage them to also have their Norfolk heritage recorded in the Australian Census.
‘A side benefit of having a code on the Census form which identifies the form as coming from Norfolk Island’, Mayor Adams said, ‘will also allow collection of other statistical data such as age and financial demographics which can be used by the Commonwealth Government in assessing appropriate funding needs for our unique situation.’
Mayor Adams reminded the Norfolk Island community of the importance of completing the Census, quoting from the form which says ‘CENSUS IS OUR MOMENT TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE’.
Mayor Adams again spoke about -
THE FORTHCOMING COMMUNITY GATHERING TO DISCUSS THE COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN 2016-2026
In again reminding the community to come to Rawson Hall on Wednesday, 10 August at 5:30pm to give their views on the draft 10 year Community Strategic Plan, Mayor Adams took the opportunity to speak about how the Vision in the current draft of the Plan came to be included.
‘The current version of the Strategic Plan’, Mayor Adams said, ‘has its Vision that Norfolk work towards being recognised as “The Best Small Island in the World”, or as Archie Biggs in his poem calls Norfolk “Daa Baas Side Orn Earth”. This aspiration is not new and I first became aware of it in 1974 when the Commonwealth Government engaged Professor G.J. Butland, Pro-Vice Chancellor of the University of New England in NSW, to undertake a population study of Norfolk Island. In his report Professor Butland concluded that –
“If a concerted effort were made, backed by larger financial resources, the community could turn the small area of the island to its own advantage by converting Norfolk Island into ‘the best small island in the world’, a model haven of considerable beauty, of unique historical interest, of a thriving community, and of rest and relaxation….”.
‘That possibility’, Mayor Adams said, ‘remains as real today as it did in 1974 but as always it is up to us as a community to believe in the possibility and bring it to fruition.’
Mayor Adams urged the community to join Councillors at next Wednesday’s meeting so Councillors can hear from the community on the Plan following the power point presentation conducted by the General Manager Ms Lotta Jackson.
Robin Adams
Mayor
4 August 2016
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NORFOLK ISLAND REGIONAL COUNCIL - PUBLIC MEETING REMINDER 10 AUGUST 2016
The community are reminded that a public meeting will be held at Rawson Hall on Wednesday, 10 August 2016 at 5:30pm.
‘The public meeting will be held in two parts. I will provide a presentation on the Community Strategic Plan and how important this document is for the Norfolk Island community, including how other plans of Council are formulated from the Community Strategic Plan. The second part of the meeting will be for those present to ask questions,’ Ms Lotta Jackson said.
‘Attending the public meeting on 10 August will provide community members with further information on the Community Strategic Plan and how the community can be involved. Public submissions on this plan can be submitted up until close of business on 19 August 2016 and can be submitted by post to “Public Exhibition Submissions, Norfolk Island Regional Council, PO Box 95, 2899” or via email to gaye.evans@nirc.gov.nf,’ Mayor Adams said.
Lotta Jackson
General Manager
03 August 2016
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NORFOLK ISLAND REGIONAL COUNCIL - LET’S GET EXCITED ABOUT WASTE
Waste management on Norfolk Island has been an ongoing issue for many years. The Waste & Environment Section of the Norfolk Island Regional Council is pleased to announce that there has been a significant shift at the Waste Management Centre and it is well on the way to contributing to make Norfolk Island the ‘best small island in the world.’
The Waste Management Centre is working towards becoming a streamlined Waste Transfer Station with reuse and recycling facilities and sustainable management of waste.
The team at the Waste & Environment Section cannot achieve this without the help of the Norfolk Island community. If everyone on the island sorts their rubbish and aims to reduce their waste, then the waste management team can have the time to efficiently process the communities waste.
It is acknowledged that the community can see trucks with mixed waste being transported to Headstone for processing and this has discouraged people from properly sorting their waste. This article is, however, aiming to inform the community that sorting our rubbish is actually worth it.
Many in the community would know that John Wichman from EcoReset Pasifika has been engaged by the Norfolk Island Regional Council to remove certain waste streams from the island for processing in both Australia and New Zealand.
Since the engagement of EcoReset Pasifika the following waste streams have been exported for processing:
- Over 14 tonnes of scrap metal
- 5 tonnes of aluminium cans
- 3 tonnes of steel cans
- 1 tonne of copper - 2 pallets of Airport Landing Equipment
- 21 tonnes of shredded tyres
- 8.5 tonnes of waste oil
‘Just by sorting our rubbish at home we can halve the rubbish that is processed at Headstone,’ said Lotta Jackson, ‘and the team at Waste & Environment recognise that there is still a way to go. However, they are really excited about working with the community to create a sustainable Waste Management Facility to be proud of.
‘I also urge all residents, businesses and accommodation houses to minimise waste wherever you can’, said Lotta Jackson, ‘and this can be done through some simple tips such as:
Think about packaging when you purchase – less packaged, less waste
Compost green waste, food scraps and newspaper Reuse containers and building materials where possible
Give toys, furniture and clothes to charity (clean first)
Bring a cloth bag to the shops, less plastic bags Buy drinks in cans rather than glass or plastic bottles
Use containers instead of gladwrap.
‘Council will provide updates to the community as we progress towards sustainable waste management. Lastly, if you have a bright idea on how to minimise waste let us know by emailing regionalcouncil@nirc.gov.nf or send a letter addressed to the General Manger, PO Box 95, Norfolk Island, 2899,’ Lotta Jackson said.
Lotta Jackson
General Manager
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NORFOLK ISLAND REGIONAL COUNCIL - PUBLIC MEETING NORFOLK ISLAND COMMUNITY STRATEGIC PLAN 2016-2026
At the Ordinary Council Meeting on 20 July 2016 Council resolved to facilitate a public meeting to explain the objectives of the Draft Norfolk Island Community Strategic Plan 2016-2026.
This public meeting will be held at Rawson Hall on Wednesday, 10 August 2016 at 5:30pm.
‘I have worked with the NSW Integrated Planning and Reporting Framework since its inception in 2009. It is a framework that is highly effective and I look forward to presenting the objectives of the Community Strategic Plan and explaining how important the plan is, and how it sits as the overarching document at the top of the Integrated Planning and Reporting Framework. There will be an opportunity for those present to raise questions at the end of the presentation. I am pleased that the public meeting will also allow me an opportunity to meet with more Norfolk Island community members,’ Ms Lotta Jackson said.
‘I thank Councillor McCoy for instigating this important public meeting,’ Mayor Adams said, ‘I would also like to remind the community that the draft Norfolk Island Community Strategic Plan 2016-2026 can be viewed at www.norfolkisland.gov.nf under the “Public Exhibition Documents” link. Public submissions on this document can be made until close of business on 19 August 2016 and can be submitted by post to “Public Exhibition Submissions, Norfolk Island Regional Council, PO Box 95, Norfolk Island, 2899” or via email to gaye.evans@nirc.gov.nf.’
Lotta Jackson
General Manager
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NORFOLK ISLAND REGIONAL COUNCIL - 1800 AND 13 TELEPHONE NUMBERS
There is an increasing number of 1800 and 13 numbers becoming available for those seeking assistance from Australian government departments and community services.
Where available, these numbers are either free of charge or charged at the cost of a local call if you just dial the number provided and do not dial the international prefix.
Please note that if you use the 0061 international prefix before dialling the 1800 or 13 number it will be recorded as an international call and you will be charged at international rates.
Lotta Jackson
General Manager
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NORFOLK ISLAND REGIONAL COUNCIL - KEEPING THE COMMUNITY INFORMED
CONGRATULATIONS AND INVITATION TO THE HON SENATOR FIONA NASH MP
Mayor Adams and the General Manager on behalf of the Regional Council and the Norfolk Island community have sent a letter of congratulations to Norfolk’s new Federal Minister the Hon Senator Fiona Nash MP along with an invitation to visit Norfolk as soon as she is able. Senator Nash is Deputy Leader of the Nationals, Minister for Regional Development, Minister for Regional Communications and Minister for Local Government and Territories.
Senator Nash’s stated vision ‘to help build country communities our children and grandchildren either want to stay in or come back to’ certainly aligns with the aspirations of the Norfolk Island community and recognises the tyranny of isolation and distance experienced by tiny remote communities such as Norfolk Island.
WEEKLY CHAT BY THE MAYOR ON LOCAL RADIO
Mayor Adams will be providing updates on Council activities on our local radio each Wednesday after the local news at 8:00am.
This week Mayor Adams reflected on the work of the Council since 1 July 2016 and how well attended the two meetings that were open to the public had been.
‘It is important’, Mayor Adams said, ‘to keep in mind that no matter what a person’s views are on what Norfolk’s governance model should be going forward into the future, that it is essential that the Regional Council operate as efficiently and strategically as it can within the new governance framework to achieve a viable and economically sustainable future for the Island and its people. Councillors are committed’, Mayor Adams said ‘to work to achieve that goal notwithstanding the challenges that lie ahead.’
Discussion also ranged over the following: The public meeting to be held on Wednesday, 10 August at Rawson Hall at 5:30pm to provide the community with the opportunity to share their thoughts on the content of the draft 10 year Community Strategic Plan which is available for viewing at the Library or Telecom or online at - http://www.norfolkisland.gov.nf/NIRC_Council_Meetings/PublicExhibitDocs. Mayor Adams advised that the current version of the Strategic Plan – Draft No. 3 - has as its Vision that Norfolk Island be recognised as ‘The Best Small Island in the World’.
General Manager Norfolk Island Regional Council Quality Row, Kingston, Norfolk Island 2899 telephone: +6723 22001; email: regionalcouncil@nirc.gov.nf
‘This is a wonderful aspirational goal’, Mayor Adams said, ‘an aspiration that can be achieved by the Council and the Norfolk Island community working together collaboratively to achieve that outcome. I urge the community to join Council at the meeting on 10 August so we can hear your views following the power point presentation conducted by the General Manager.’
The community was also encouraged to take the opportunity to make submissions by 19 August 2016 on the draft Operational Plan Budget for 2016/17 which is also available on the above website. Mayor Adams reported on the fortnightly meeting she and the General Manager has with the Administrator and the Official Secretary to keep lines of direct communication open between the Council and the Commonwealth. Mayor Adams advised that last week’s meeting focussed on the motion passed at the Council meeting on 20 July that discussion be held with the Commonwealth Government on the Airport Loan from the Commonwealth being deemed fully discharged with effect 1 September 2016; a gesture of goodwill to the Norfolk Island community as part of the transition to a sustainable Regional Council.
‘It was encouraging,’ Mayor Adams said, ‘to learn that the Administrator had made representation on earlier occasions on this issue.’
Robin Adams
Mayor
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NORFOLK ISLAND REGIONAL COUNCIL - MAKE YOUR MARK ON THE NEW REGIONAL COUNCIL
A media release on 15 July 2016 was issued calling for interested persons to submit logo designs for the new Norfolk Island Regional Council logo.
‘Why not be creative this weekend and participate in the Norfolk Island Regional Council’s Logo competition? The closing time for logo submissions being this coming Monday, 1 August 2016 at 4.30pm, this is your last chance,’ Ms Lotta Jackson said.
For those still wishing to submit a logo, a recap of the 15 July 2016 media release is below:
it is important that the logo represent the Norfolk Island community as Council is in place to serve its community
the design needs to consider that the logo will be used on business cards as well as large banners, but apart from that there are no limitations on the designs that can be submitted
for those that can’t submit a digitised logo, sketches will be accepted and Council will work with a graphic designer to digitise the sketch
Councillors will assess and then decide on the logo for the Norfolk Island Regional Council. Council reserves the right to slightly amend the final logo design if required and will do this in consultation with the designer to ensure the integrity of the design
a small prize will be given to the successful logo designer
designs can be submitted to Gaye Evans, New Military Barracks, Kingston or via email to gaye.evans@nirc.gov.nf by 4.30pm, 1 August 2016
Lotta Jackson
General Manager
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NORFOLK ISLAND REGIONAL COUNCIL - DOCUMENTS FOR PUBLIC EXHIBITION
The Council held their first Ordinary Meeting on 20 July 2016 at 2:00pm. The minutes are available at www.norfolkisland.gov.nf . Around twenty-five members of the public attended the meeting. ‘It is great to see that the community is interested in the activities of the new Council,’ said Lotta Jackson, ‘We are off to a good start with the focus on the draft Community Strategic Plan and the budget for 2016/17.
For specific items before Council, and in accordance with relevant legislation, Council must resolve to place documents on public exhibition and invite public submissions. A number of important matters were discussed at the Council meeting and Council resolved to place five documents on public exhibition. These are detailed below along with the relevant closing dates for public submissions on each document.
For those wanting to make a submission the documents are available to view under the ‘Public Exhibition Documents’ link on www.norfolkisland.gov.nf or hard copies are available at the Norfolk Island Library or from the Customer Care Team in the Telecom Building. If you would like to make a submission on one or all of the documents, please provide via email to gaye.evans@nirc.gov.nf or post to ‘Public Exhibition Submissions, Norfolk Island Regional Council, PO Box 95, Norfolk Island, 2899’.
The Council resolved that the draft Norfolk Island Regional Council Code of Meeting Practice be placed on public exhibition for 28 days with a 42 day period for public submissions. The public submissions must be received by close of business 2 September 2016. If no public submissions are received the draft document becomes the adopted Code of Meeting Practice for the Council.
Council resolved that the draft policy titled Payment of Expenses and Provision of Facilities to Councillors be placed on public exhibition for 28 days. If the Council does not receive any public submissions by close of business on 19 August 2016 the draft document is adopted as policy.
Council resolved to adopt the Norfolk Island Community Strategic Plan 2016-2026 and place it on public exhibition for 28 days, until 19 August 2016. This is to allow the Norfolk Island Regional Council to facilitate a public meeting to further explain the objectives of the plan to the community. Details of this public meeting will be provided next week.
The Local Government Act 1993 (NSW) at section 513A requires the Norfolk Island Regional Council to raise revenue by ordinary rates (land rates) of $500,000 for the year ending 30 June 2017 and $1,000,000 for year ending 30 June 2018 and any later year. The Council resolved to place the recommended rating model on public exhibition for 28 days, and if no submissions are received, the model becomes the rating structure for the Norfolk Island Regional Council 2016/17. Public submissions must be made by close of business 19 August 2016.
General Manager Norfolk Island Regional Council Quality Row, Kingston, Norfolk Island 2899 telephone: +6723 22001; email: generalmanager@nirc.gov.nf
The Council resolved to adopt the Operational Plan Budget for 2016/17 and place it on public exhibition for 28 days. If no submissions are received by close of business on 19 August 2016, the budget becomes the adopted budget for the Norfolk Island Regional Council 2016/17.
OTHER BUSINESS DEALT WITH AT THE ORDINARY COUNCIL MEETING
The Mayoral Minute was utilised by Mayor Adams to discuss the Airport Loan from the Commonwealth, further details can be found in the Mayors media release on www.norfolkisland.gov.nf.
The remuneration fees for Councillors and the Mayor were adopted by Council. The fees are in line with the determination made by the NSW Local Government Remuneration Tribunal 26 March 2016 and a Norfolk Island Applied Laws Ordinance. The remuneration for each Councillor is $11,290 and the Mayor receives an additional fee of $24,630 for the year 2016/17.
In relation to the relevant sections of the Local Government Act 1993 (NSW) (NI) the Council delegated powers to the General Manager to allow her to exercise her functions as General Manager and exercise Council’s powers, functions, duties and authorities contained in legislation. Council is able, by resolution, to direct the General Manager in the exercise of any function delegated.
Council adopted two policies – ‘Councillor Access to Information and Interaction with Staff’ and a ‘Media Policy’. These two policies will soon be available under the ‘Policies and Procedures’ link on www.norfolkisland.gov.nf but can be viewed as attachments 5 and 6 on the following link in the meantime http://www.norfolkisland.gov.nf/NIRC_Council_Meetings/Agendas/
Lotta Jackson
General Manager
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NORFOLK ISLAND REGIONAL COUNCIL - KEEPING THE COMMUNITY INFORMED
WHAT IS A MAYORAL MINUTE?
The Council’s Code of Meeting Practice gives the Mayor the ability to put to a Meeting of Council a written and signed Mayoral Minute on any matter or topic that is within the jurisdiction of Council or of which Council has official knowledge. A Mayoral Minute put to a meeting takes precedence over all business on the Council’s Business Paper for that Meeting. A recommendation made in a Mayoral Minute if adopted by the Council becomes a resolution of the Council. As the designated chairperson of Council meetings the Mayor is restricted from putting matters on the Notice Paper. A Mayoral Minute gives the Mayor the opportunity to bring forward a matter that he or she would otherwise be precluded from raising in other business.
At the first Ordinary Meeting of the Council on 20 July 2016 Mayor Adams moved, and the Council unanimously agreed, the following Mayoral Minute:
‘That the Council agrees the Mayor and the General Manager enter into discussion with the Commonwealth Government that the Airport Loan from the Commonwealth be deemed fully discharged with effect 1 September 2016 as a gesture of goodwill to the Norfolk Island community as part of the transition to a sustainable Regional Council.’
Speaking to the motion Mayor Adams provided the following background:
‘In March 2015, the Australian Government announced comprehensive reforms for Norfolk Island. It was stated that the action was taken to address issues of sustainability which have arisen from the model of self-government requiring Norfolk Island to deliver local, state and federal functions since 1979.
‘The Australian Government further stated that these significant reforms will help deliver equity and economic stability to Norfolk Island and ensure residents have access to essential services that all Australians deserve.
‘Currently expenditure in the draft Operational Plan Budget 2016/17 is budgeted to outstrip income by $4,200,000 with an outstanding loan of $11.4 million dollars for the last upgrade of the airport. This debt, along with the obligation to not only fund the next overlay; but to also fund the ongoing maintenance and depreciation on the rest of the airports assets - the Fire engines, the airport terminal, the Emergency Services Building etc. – we are left with the conclusion that the Norfolk Island airport is currently a demonstrably financially unsustainable asset.
General Manager Norfolk Island Regional Council Quality Row, Kingston, Norfolk Island 2899 telephone: +6723 22001; email: generalmanager@nirc.gov.nf
‘I hold the view that the Norfolk Island Regional Council should commence its operations from a platform where it can reasonably achieve economic sustainability as promised by the Commonwealth without having to commence its operations with a deficit budget as is currently being proposed.
‘To conclude, I submit that the Commonwealth agreeing as a gesture of good will to deeming the Airport loan as fully discharged with effect 1 September 2016 would from the outset assist the Regional Council to address the issues of sustainability for Norfolk Island moving forward.’
Robin Adams
JP Mayor
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INTRODUCING THE GROUP MANAGER - COMMERCIAL HUB
John has over 30 years public service experience across Queensland, New South Wales, Tasmania and England in health, education and local government. This experience has covered finance, payroll/human resources and corporate services. John’s commercial experience spans 21 years in the transport, engineering, health and finance sectors, in Queensland and Victoria.
John’s personal interests include travel, rugby league (Cowboys and Maroons), EPL, child health and well-being and mathematics. He enjoys socialising, and spending time with friends and family, his wife and son.
‘The Executive Management team of Council is now complete with the arrival of John. I, along with the other members of the Executive Management team – the Group Managers for Services and Governance – welcomed his arrival this week. We are now in week three of the Regional Council and John has hit the ground running. The Executive Management team bring a multitude of strengths and skills to the Norfolk Island Regional Council and I look forward to the work that we will be doing together,’ Ms Lotta Jackson said.
Lotta Jackson
General Manager
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NORFOLK ISLAND REGIONAL COUNCIL - THE COUNCIL’S CHARTER – KEEPING THE COMMUNITY INFORMED
The Norfolk Island Regional Council (your Council) was formally constituted on 1 July 2016 and brings to our community a new way of ‘doing government business’ on Norfolk Island. Your Council in the main operates under the provisions of the NSW Local Government Act 1993 (the Act) and NSW Local Government (General) Regulations 2005 (the Regulations).
However, the Commonwealth has made a number of modifications to the Act to make the operation of the Act more relevant to Norfolk Island circumstances. This legislation of course brings many changes to Norfolk Island which we will talk about in the coming weeks. This week we will talk about the principles that are to guide your Council under the Act.
Your Council has the following charter
to provide directly or on behalf of other levels of government, after due consultation, adequate, equitable and appropriate services and facilities for the community and to ensure that those services and facilities are managed efficiently and effectively
to exercise community leadership
to exercise its functions in a manner that is consistent with and actively promotes the multicultural principles
to promote and to provide and plan for the needs of children
to properly manage, develop, protect, restore, enhance and conserve the environment of the area for which it is responsible, in a manner that is consistent with and promotes the principles of ecologically sustainable development
to have regard to the long term and cumulative effects of its decisions
to bear in mind that it is the custodian and trustee of public assets and to effectively plan for, account for and manage the assets for which it is responsible
to engage in long-term strategic planning on behalf of the local community
to exercise its functions in a manner that is consistent with and promotes social justice principles of equity, access, participation and rights
to facilitate the involvement of councillors, members of the public, users of facilities and services and council staff in the development, improvement and co-ordination of local government
to raise funds for local purposes by the fair imposition of rates, charges and fees, by income earned from investments and, when appropriate, by borrowings and grants
to keep the local community informed about its activities
to ensure that, in the exercise of its regulatory functions, it acts consistently and without bias, particularly where an activity of the council is affected
to be a responsible employer.
General Manager Norfolk Island Regional Council Quality Row, Kingston, Norfolk Island 2899 telephone: +6723 22001; email: generalmanager@nirc.gov.nf
General Manager Norfolk Island Regional Council Quality Row, Kingston, Norfolk Island 2899 telephone: +6723 22001; email: generalmanager@nirc.gov.nf
The first Ordinary Meeting of your Council will be held on Wednesday, 20 July 2016 at 2.00pm in the Council Chambers in the Bi-Centennial Complex. The meeting is open to the public.
Robin Adams
Mayor
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NORFOLK ISLAND REGIONAL COUNCIL - ORDINARY COUNCIL MEETING – 20 JULY 2016
The Norfolk Island Regional Council is now 2 weeks old and the first Ordinary Council meeting will be held on Wednesday, 20 July at 2:00pm in the new Council Chambers in Burnt Pine.
‘The agenda contains many important items’, said Lotta Jackson ‘we are starting with procedural matters such as the Code of Meeting Practice, Fees for Councillors and the Mayor and Delegations of Authority to the General Manager. This is followed by three policies: Payment of expenses and provision of facilities to Councillors, Councillor access to information and interaction with staff and a Media Policy. The Norfolk Island Community Strategic Plan, the proposed Rating model for 2016/17 and the Budget for 2016/17 are also items on the agenda’.
The meeting is open to the public with seating for those wanting to attend. The public may speak on any item on the agenda as part of the Public Access session by contacting Council on 22001 ext 128 or via email to gaye.evans@nirc.gov.nf by 4pm on Monday 18 July. All potential speakers must state what item on the agenda they will address. The time limit is for a maximum of 5 minutes per speaker. All speakers are to address the Council courteously and must only speak on the topic of the item as submitted.
The Business Paper Agenda and attachments can be found on Council’s web-page www.norfolksialnd.gov.nf and hard copies can be viewed at the Library.
Lotta Jackson
General Manager
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NORFOLK ISLAND REGIONAL COUNCIL - NEW LOGO REQUIRED FOR THE NORFOLK ISLAND REGIONAL COUNCIL
A new logo is required for the new Norfolk Island Regional Council. It is important that the logo represent the Norfolk Island community as Council is in place to serve its community. As such, the Concillors and General Manager would like to invite interested persons to submit logo designs for the Norfolk Island Regional Council.
‘We want to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to submit logo ideas. We acknowledge that some people will be able to submit a digitised logo, however, for those that can’t we would also like to accept sketches from interested persons. If a sketch was selected, the Council would work with a graphic designer to digitise the logo,’ Ms Lotta Jackson said.
‘Whilst there will be a small prize given to the successful logo designer, the designer will be remembered in Norfolk Island history as the creator of a prestigious logo that will be widelycirculated,’ Mayor Adams said. ‘There are some limitations on the logo design in that we need to be able to use it on business cards as well as large banners but apart from that, we are excited to see what designs will come forth. Logos should be submitted to Gaye Evans, New Military Barracks, Kingston or via email to gaye.evans@nirc.gov.nf no later than 4.30pm on 1 August 2016,’ Ms Lotta Jackson said.
The Councillors will assess and then decide on the logo for the Norfolk Island Regional Council. The Council reserves the right to slightly amend the final logo design if required and will do this in consultation with the designer to ensure the integrity of the design.
Lotta Jackson
General Manager
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NORFOLK ISLAND REGIONAL COUNCIL - INTRODUCING THE CUSTOMER CARE TEAM
An exciting part of the new Norfolk Island Regional Council organisational structure is the creation of the Customer Care Team. This team is responsible for customer enquiries and accepting over the counter payments for the Council.
The Customer Care Team is located in the Telecom building in Burnt Pine. The Customer Care Team can be contacted by calling into the office during business hours, by telephoning 22244 or emailing customercare@nirc.gov.nf. The team is currently experiencing a high volume of calls regarding the transition, so you don’t experience call waiting times you are encouraged to email where practicable to allow Council to respond to you in a timely manner.
As the organisational structure continues to be refined, the Customer Care Team will become the ‘one stop shop’ for the community. The Customer Care Team will provide excellent customer service and factual and timely advice.
The Council is currently reviewing the customer activities and functions performed by the Customer Care Team. Understanding how things are currently done will enable Council to improve and work more efficiently, which in turn allows Council to provide the best services to the Norfolk Island community. Council is also assessing, and will be introducing, new software to assist staff in this area also.
The Council thanks the community for its patience and understanding in this time of change.
Lotta Jackson
General Manager
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NORFOLK ISLAND REGIONAL COUNCIL - NORFOLK ISLAND PUBLIC WORKERS COMPENSATION SCHEME
The Norfolk Island Regional Council would like to advise the members of the Norfolk Island Public Workers Compensation Scheme that the Scheme will continue to operate under its current format until further notice and payments can be made as usual at the Telecom Office in New Cascade Road.
Any enquiries regarding the Scheme can still be directed to the current Office in New Cascade Road or by telephoning 24272.
Gary Dowling
Employment Liaison Officer
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NORFOLK ISLAND REGIONAL COUNCIL - ELECTION OF MAYOR AND DEPUTY MAYOR
The election of Mayor and Deputy Mayor was undertaken at the meeting. Ms Robin Adams was elected Mayor and Mr John McCoy elected Deputy Mayor.
The Council also adopted the following schedule of meetings at 2.00pm for the period July 2016 to September 2017:
Please be informed that the Business paper agenda will be placed on Council’s web-site on Friday afternoons the week before the Council meeting. There will also be hard copies to view at the Library. The community is reminded that meetings of the Council are open to the public to attend. There will be a ‘Public Access’ component of Ordinary Meetings of Council. This allows the public to have a maximum of five minutes per person to speak to Council at Ordinary Meetings on an item that is on the business paper agenda.
The Mayor, in consultation with the General Manager, may decide the number of people at the same meeting speaking on a particular item on the business agenda. Community members wishing to utilise this facility will need to lodge their interest to speak with the General Manager by 4.00pm the Monday before a scheduled Ordinary Council Meeting.
‘I extend my congratulations to Mayor Adams and Deputy Mayor McCoy on their election to their positions and I look forward to working with them and the other Councillors for the benefit of the Norfolk Island Community.
‘I would also like to extend sincere thanks to everyone that was involved in ensuring the Council Chambers refurbishment was completed on time, it is very much appreciated,’ Ms Jackson said.
Minutes of Council meetings are available to the community, once complete, on www.norfolkisland.gov.nf
Lotta Jackson General Manager
7 July 2016
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EXTRAORDINARY MEETING OF THE NORFOLK ISLAND REGIONAL COUNCIL
On Wednesday, 6 July 2016 at 5pm the Norfolk Island Regional Councillors will meet for the first time in the Norfolk Island Regional Council Chambers. The Council Chambers are located in the Bicentennial Complex in Burnt Pine. Meeting of the Council is open to the public to attend.
This meeting is an Extraordinary meeting dealing with procedural matters beginning with the election of the Mayor and Deputy Mayor. Other business on the agenda includes setting ordinary meeting days, and times and the adoption of a Code of Conduct. The full agenda will be available on the website early next week.
Minutes of Council meetings will also be available to the community on www.norfolkisland.gov.nf
Councillors and some Managers of the new Norfolk Island Regional Council participated in workshops during the week. These workshops were facilitated by Local Government NSW (LGNSW) and topics discussed included ‘Audit Committee Familiarisation’, ‘Elected Life’ and ‘Strategic Planning’.
I look forward to working closely with the Norfolk Island Regional Councillors, staff and this community.
Lotta Jackson
General Manager
1 July 2016
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