Council Meeting - Agenda - 26 august 2026

minutes of the Ordinary Meeting of Council held on 22 July 2026, as circulated be taken as read and confirmed. 6.2 MINUTES 22 JULY 2026 – CLOSED (CONFIDENTIAL) MEETING Minutes of the Closed (Confidential) meeting of Council held on 22 July 2026 be taken as an accurate record and confirmed. Recommended Motion:

minutes of the Closed (Confidential) Meeting of Council held on 22 July 2026, as circulated be taken as read and confirmed. 26 August 2026 6 of 78 AGENDA – ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL 7 DECLARATION OF CONFLICT OF INTEREST Pursuant to Division 2 – Conflict of Interest, of the Local Government Act 2020 general and material conflict of interest must be declared prior to debate on specific items within the agenda; or in writing to the Chief Executive Officer before the meeting. A Councillor who has declared a conflict of interest in respect of a matter must: a) Disclose the conflict of interest in the manner required by the Yarriambiack Shire Council Governance Rules (Chapter 5- Disclosure of Conflict of Interest at Council Meetings). b) Exclude themselves from the decision-making process in relation to that matter, including any discussion or votes on the matter at any Council meeting or delegated committee, and any action in relation to the matter. General conflict of interest is if a relevant person has an interest in a matter if an impartial, fair-minded person would consider that the person’s private interests could result in that person acting in a manner that is contrary to their public duty. a) Private interests mean any direct or indirect interest of a relevant person that does not derive from their public duty and does not include an interest that is only a matter of personal opinion or belief. b) Public duty means the responsibilities and obligations that a relevant person has to members of the public in their role as a relevant person. Material conflict of interest is if a relevant person has an interest in respect of a matter if an affected person would gain a benefit or suffer a loss depending on the outcome of the matter, a) The benefit or loss incurred may be directly or indirectly, OR b) In a pecuniary or non-pecuniary form. Councillors are also encouraged to declare circumstances where there may be a perceived conflict of interest. 7.1 CONFLICT OF INTEREST DECLARED Conflict Declared by Agenda Item Reason - Explanation Cr Corinne Heintze 15.13 2026/27 SHARE Cr Heintze is secretary of the Grants Funding Program DEECA appointed Minyip Recreation Reserve Committee of Management. 26 August 2026 7 of 78 AGENDA – ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL 8 BUSINESS ARISING 8.1 BUSINESS ARISING FROM PREVIOUS MINUTES As per ongoing and pending actions list, Item 8.2. 8.2 ONGOING AND PENDING ACTIONS Council Meeting Recommendation Action Action Taken 30 June 2025 Enter into an agreement with the Not yet commenced. Agreement to be Rupanyup Recreation Reserve outlining developed. Item 15.5

funds received from the NBN Tower rental must be utilised towards infrastructure upgrades and/or ground and building maintenance at the Rupanyup Recreation Reserve. 29 October 2025 Provide a report back to Council in 12 Report to be provided in October 2026. months’ time, outlining the progress of Item 15.8 sourcing alternative grants and/or revenue streams to fund the Automated Weather Station maintenance. Report due by 29 October 2026. 26 November 2025 Ensure that sanitary bins are available in Sanitary bin now available in Council’s public toilets, wherever female Warracknabeal male toilets. Item 14.3 disposal facilities exist. 10 December 2025 Land transfer of land, Wheatlands Transfer scheduled for 21 August Agriculture Museum, to the 2026, after which the S173 Agreement Item 15.1 Warracknabeal and District Historical can be lodged on title. Society. 10 December 2025 Transfer of land, 40 Anderson Street This will occur once funding is secured Warracknabeal, to E2E Growth. to develop the site. Item 15.2 28 January 2026 Sell the former depot sites in Hopetoun Real Estate Agent engaged to known as: commence the sale process. Item 15.4 • 92 Cummings Street, Hopetoun Contract of sale entered into for 74-76 (Lot 9 LP26623, Lot 10 LP26623, Cumming Street Hopetoun. Settlement and Lot 11 LP26623), comprising a due September 2026. Report will be total area of 3,036 square metres; presented to Council in October for and noting. • 74-76 Cummings Street, Hopetoun (Lot 2 LP147375), comprising a total area of 1,543 square metres. 28 January 2026 Gift 2 Wood Street, Rupanyup to the Lawyer engaged to commence the Victorian State Emergency Servies process. Item 15.5 (VICSES). All Agreements executed and awaiting transfer to be scheduled and S173 Agreement to be lodged against title. 26 August 2026 8 of 78 AGENDA – ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL 9 PETITIONS No petitions received. 10 MINISTERIAL AND GOVERNMENT CORRESPONDENCE TO COUNCILLORS ONLY Outgoing Date Recipient Details 27/07/2026 Rikkie-Lee Tyrrell MP Letter - Local Government Legislation Amendment Bill 2026 27/07/2026 Beverley McArthur MP Letter - Local Government Legislation Amendment Bill 2026 27/07/2026 Dr Sarah Mansfield MP Letter - Local Government Legislation Amendment Bill 2026 27/07/2026 Jacinta Ermacora MP Letter - Local Government Legislation Amendment Bill 2026 27/07/2026 Joe McCracken MP Letter - Local Government Legislation Amendment Bill 2026 27/07/2026 Emma Kealy MP Letter - Local Government Legislation Amendment Bill 2026 27/07/2026 Jade Benham MP Letter - Local Government Legislation Amendment Bill 2026 27/07/2026 Rikkie-Lee Tyrrell MP Letter - Advocacy Support Request – Warracknabeal Aerodrome Automated Weather Station 07/08/2026 Richard Duke, Acting Presentation request regarding School to Work Program. Executive Director Department of Education 18/08/2026 National Emergency Letter regarding the Wimmera Emergency Management Management Agency Resource Sharing Partnership’s submission on the proposed Disaster Recovery Funding Framework. Incoming Date Sender Details 22/07/2026 The Hon. Ben Carroll MP Response letter to WSMCA regarding reforms to the Victorian Governments School to Work program 29/07/2026 The Hon Paul Hamer MP Letter – Roadside Weeds and Pests Program 2026-2027 07/08/2026 Dr Sarah Mansfield MP Noted the Local Government Legislation Amendment Bill 2026 letter. 14/08/2026 Gaelle Broad MP Response to the Local Government Legislation Amendment Bill 2026 letter. 18/08/2026 National Emergency Recognition of letter regarding the Wimmera Emergency Management Agency Management Resource Sharing Partnership’s submission on the proposed Disaster Recovery Funding Framework. 26 August 2026 9 of 78 AGENDA – ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL 11 SPECIAL COMMITTEES 11.1 AUDIT AND RISK COMMITTEE MEETING SCHEDULE The proposed scheduled meeting program is as follows for the next 12 months for the Audit and Risk Committee: Date Description 21 September 2026 Special Financial Statements and Performance Report Meeting 09 November 2026 Ordinary Meeting 08 February 2027 Ordinary Meeting 10 May 2027 Ordinary Meeting 11.2 AUDIT AND RISK COMMITTEE MEETING MINUTES – 10 AUGUST 2026 The Ordinary Audit and Risk Committee Meeting was held on 10 August 2026. Attachment: Audit and Risk Committee Meeting Minutes – 10 August 2026 Recommended Motion

Minutes of the Ordinary Audit and Risk Committee Meeting held on 10 August 2026 be taken as read and confirmed. 26 August 2026 10 of 78 AGENDA – ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL 12 ACTIVITY REPORTS 12.1 MAYOR ACTIVITY REPORT Mayor Andrew McLean (August) Date Activity Location Briefing on Draft 2027 Transmission Plan and 29/07/26 Online Joint Submission 29/07/26 CEO Performance Plan and KPI's 2026-2027 Online 31/07/26 Mayor, Deputy Mayor and CEO Catch Up Online 31/07/26 West Wind Update Online Annual Councillor Mandatory Professional 05/08/26 Warracknabeal Development Training – Day 2 06/08/26 Attended Mallee Machinery Field Days with CEO Speed 07/08/26 Mayor, Deputy Mayor and CEO Catch Up Warracknabeal Meeting with Superintendent Dan Davison from 07/08/26 Warracknabeal Vic Police 10/08/26 Audit and Risk Committee Meeting Warracknabeal 11/08/26 Patchewollock Inc meeting Patchewollock 12/08/26 Council Forum Warracknabeal Early Years Service in Small Rural Communities 18/08/26 Warracknabeal Roundtable 20/08/26 MAV Delegate Connect Session Online 21/08/26 Mayor, Deputy Mayor and CEO Catch Up Online 23/08/26 Woomelang Bowls Clubs 80th Birthday Woomelang *Represent advocacy meetings 26 August 2026 11 of 78 AGENDA – ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL 12.2 COUNCILLOR ACTIVITY REPORTS Deputy Mayor Corinne Heintze – Dunmunkle Ward (August) Date Activity Location Photo Opportunity at Sheep Hills Silo with Western 28/07/26 Sheep Hills Ag and Cr Kylie Zanker Briefing on Draft 2027 Transmission Plan and Joint 29/07/26 Online Submission 31/07/26 Mayor, Deputy Mayor and CEO Catch Up Online Annual Councillor Mandatory Professional 04/08/26 Warracknabeal Development Training – Day 1 Annual Councillor Mandatory Professional 05/08/26 Warracknabeal Development Training – Day 2 07/08/26 Mayor, Deputy Mayor and CEO Catch Up Online 12/08/26 Council Forum Warracknabeal 21/08/26 Mayor, Deputy Mayor and CEO Catch Up Online Cr Melinda Keel – Dunmunkle Ward (August) Date Activity Location 28/07/26 Murtoa Swimming Pool Annual General Meeting Murtoa Briefing on Draft 2027 Transmission Plan and Joint 29/07/26 Online Submission Annual Councillor Mandatory Professional 04/08/26 Warracknabeal Development Training – Day 1 Annual Councillor Mandatory Professional 05/08/26 Warracknabeal Development Training – Day 2 Cr Chris Lehmann – Hopetoun Ward (August) Date Activity Location 12/08/26 Council Forum Warracknabeal 26 August 2026 12 of 78 AGENDA – ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL Cr Karly Kirk – Warracknabeal Ward (August) Date Activity Location Annual Councillor Mandatory Professional 04/08/26 Warracknabeal Development Training – Day 1 Annual Councillor Mandatory Professional 05/08/26 Warracknabeal Development Training – Day 2 12/08/26 Council Forum Warracknabeal 14/08/26 Rail Freight Alliance Meeting Melbourne Cr Kylie Zanker – Warracknabeal Ward (August) Date Activity Location 24/07/26 Wimmera Highway Action Committee Meeting Online Photo Opportunity at Sheep Hills Silo with Western 28/07/26 Sheep Hills Ag and Deputy Mayor Corinne Heintze 29/07/26 Briefing on Draft 2027 Victorian Transmission Plan Online Warracknabeal Agricultural and Show Committee 29/07/26 Town Meeting regarding the future of the Warracknabeal Warracknabeal Show 31/07/26 Queer Beers Event Warracknabeal Annual Councillor Mandatory Professional 04/08/26 Warracknabeal Development Training – Day 1 Annual Councillor Mandatory Professional 05/08/26 Warracknabeal Development Training – Day 2 10/08/26 Audit and Risk Committee Meeting Warracknabeal 11/08/26 Wimmera Pride Committee General Meeting Horsham 12/08/26 Council Forum Warracknabeal Warracknabeal Cubs and Scouts Annual General 18/08/26 Warracknabeal Meeting 20/08/26 CoRE Leadership Group Meeting Online Wimmera Mallee Environmental and Agricultural 24/08/26 Warracknabeal Protection Association Meeting 26 August 2026 13 of 78 AGENDA – ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL 12.3 CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER ACTIVITY REPORT Tammy Smith (August) Date Activity Location 23/07/26 LGPro Executive Leadership Program Celebratory Melbourne Dinner – Chief Operating Officer completed the program 23/07/26 Rural Councils Victoria Committee Meeting Online 27/07/26 Personal / Sick Leave – 31/07/26 31/07/26 Mayor, Deputy Mayor, CEO and Governance Support Online Officer Meeting 03/08/26 Meeting with ByFive Chair and Executive Officer Online 03/08/26 Warracknabeal Garden Club meeting to discuss Warracknabeal donation to purchase plants 04/08/26 Wimmera Southern Mallee Councillor Alliance – Warracknabeal – Mandatory Councillor Training facilitated by VLGA 05/08/26 05/08/26 Uniting Vic Tas Strengthening the Foundations for Horsham Living Event 06/08/26 Mallee Machinery Field Days attendance with Mayor Speed 07/08/26 Meeting with Police Superintendent and Inspector Warracknabeal 10/08/26 Meeting with West Wind Representatives Warracknabeal 10/08/26 Audit and Risk Committee Meeting Warracknabeal 10/08/26 Meeting with Warracknabeal Show Committee Member Warracknabeal 12/08/26 Council Forum Meeting Warracknabeal 12/08/26 Meeting with DEECA Regional Executive Director Warracknabeal 13/08/26 Wimmera Southern Mallee CEO’s Meeting Horsham 14/08/26 Meeting with Chair Warracknabeal Action Group Warracknabeal 14/08/26 Meeting with Warracknabeal VET and Hindmarsh Shire Warracknabeal Council CEO 17/08/26 MAV CEO Connect Meeting Online 18/08/26 Murtoa Progress Association Meeting Murtoa 19/08/26 Restoration Working Group Meeting Online 26 August 2026 14 of 78 AGENDA – ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL Tammy Smith (August) 19/08/26 Joint State and Local Government CEO Forum Online 20/08/26 Meeting Uniting Vic Tas to discuss Mental Health Warracknabeal Programs in Yarriambiack Shire 20/08/26 Meeting Curyo Wind Farm Online 21/08/26 Meeting Mayor, Deputy Mayor, CEO and Governance Online Support Officer 21/08/26 LGPro Alumni Event and CEO / Director Forum Melbourne 25/08/26 Meeting with Energy Infrastructure Commissioner Warracknabeal 25/08/26 Meeting with Department of Transport and Planning Online *Represent advocacy meetings 26 August 2026 15 of 78 AGENDA – ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL 13 PUBLIC QUESTIONS Division 8 – Public Question Time (Yarriambiack Shire Council Governance Rules) Community Members (excluding Councillors) may submit a question to Council. Questions must be submitted in writing, stating the name and address of the person submitting the question, on an approved or permitted form by Council. Public Questions for Council – Yarriambiack Shire Council. Questions must be submitted 24 hours prior to a Council Meeting. The questions will be answered at a Council meeting by the Mayor (Chairperson), or if delegated by the Chairperson, the Chief Executive Officer, a Councillor or a nominated Officer. If questions are submitted less than 24 hours before the Council meeting, they will be answered at the meeting where possible, and if no answer can be given, then a written answer will be given to the person as soon as possible after the Council meeting. No person can submit more than two questions at any Council meeting (unless permitted by the Chair – Mayor). The question will not be allowed if: i. relates to a matter outside the duties, functions and powers of Council; ii. is defamatory, indecent, abusive, offensive, irrelevant, trivial or objectionable in language or substance; iii. deals with a subject matter already answered; iv. is aimed at embarrassing a Councillor or an Officer; v. relates to a personnel matter; or vi. contains or refers or relates to Confidential Information. Questions and answers must be as brief as possible, and no discussion is allowed other than for the purpose of clarification. The Name of Person and Question will be read out by either the Mayor or Chief Executive Officer, and the nominated Councillor / Officer is to respond. The party submitting the question need not physically attend the Council Meeting, however if they are not physically present at the part of the meeting allocated for public question time, the Mayor (Chairperson) may determine that a verbal answer will not be provided at the meeting and a written answer will instead be communicated after the meeting. 13.1 QUESTIONS SUBMITTED Name: Town: Question: Respondent: Response: 26 August 2026 16 of 78 AGENDA – ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL 14 COUNCILLOR REPORTS AND NOTICE OF MOTIONS 14.1 MAYORS REPORT Earlier this month, Yarriambiack Shire Council had the pleasure of hosting the annual mandatory Councillor training program in Warracknabeal. Conducted over two days and facilitated by the Victorian Local Governance Association (VLGA), the training was attended by Councillors from across the Wimmera Southern Mallee Councillor Alliance. The program provided a valuable opportunity for Councillors to strengthen their knowledge and understanding of their governance responsibilities while also connecting with colleagues from neighbouring municipalities. It was particularly rewarding to share ideas, discuss common challenges, and explore opportunities for collaboration, all while achieving value for money through a regional approach to training. We look forward to continuing to strengthen our relationships and work closely with our Wimmera Southern Mallee partner councils in the future. On Thursday, 06 August, the Chief Executive Officer and I attended the Mallee Machinery Field Days. This event continues to be one of the region's premier agricultural showcases, bringing together industry leaders, businesses, producers and community members. Congratulations to the Speed Lions Club for once again delivering a highly successful event that provides significant economic and social benefits for our region. I also attended the Early Years Service in Small Rural Communities Round Table on Tuesday, 18 August. Access to quality childcare and kindergarten services remains one of the most significant challenges facing many rural communities. The round table provided a valuable forum to share ideas, discuss innovative approaches and advocate for practical solutions that will help address the workforce and service delivery challenges experienced across our region. Ensuring young families can access quality early years services is critical to the long-term sustainability and growth of our communities. I am pleased to report that the Minyip Recreation Reserve Lighting Project has now been completed. Yarriambiack Shire Council delivered the project with the support of the Minyip Recreation Reserve Committee and the Minyip-Murtoa Football Netball Club. The upgraded lighting is a fantastic addition to the reserve and further enhances the excellent facilities available to local sporting clubs and community groups. Congratulations and thank you to the many volunteers who have contributed countless hours towards the ongoing improvements at the reserve. Their dedication and commitment continue to make a significant difference to the community. Finally, I encourage all residents, particularly those who keep poultry or work closely with birds, to remain vigilant regarding avian influenza (bird flu). While there are currently no reported cases within Yarriambiack Shire, early detection and reporting are essential in protecting our agricultural industries and local bird populations. Signs of avian influenza can include sudden bird deaths, respiratory difficulties, swelling around the head and neck, reduced egg production, or lethargy in poultry. Any unusual illness or deaths in birds should be reported immediately to Agriculture Victoria's Emergency Animal Disease Watch Hotline on 1800 675 888. By remaining alert and reporting concerns promptly, we can all play a role in protecting our region's important agricultural sector and community wellbeing. 26 August 2026 17 of 78 AGENDA – ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL 14.2 MUNICIPAL ASSOCIATION OF VICTORIA MOTIONS Presented by Mayor, Cr Andrew McLean Summary This report seeks Council endorsement to support five motions being submitted to the Municipal Association of Victoria (MAV) State Council in October 2026. The motions are to be submitted by Horsham Rural City Council and Hindmarsh Shire Council and address several significant issues affecting the Wimmera Southern Mallee communities, including: 1. Advocacy for a Rural Mental Health and Wellbeing Local and Satellite Network in the Wimmera (Hindmarsh Shire Council). 2. A Tiered Rural and Regional Mental Health and Wellbeing Model (Horsham Rural City Council) 3. Reliability of Water Supply for Recreational Lakes (Horsham Rural City Council). 4. Increased Government Funding for Integrated Water Management (IWM) Implementation (Horsham Rural City Council); and 5. Communications Network Resilience During Emergencies (Horsham Rural City Council). The motions are consistent with the priorities of the Wimmera Southern Mallee Councils Alliance and seek improved investment, service delivery and infrastructure outcomes for rural communities. They also align strongly with the Yarriambiack Shire Council Plan 2025-2029, Tourism Strategy and Economic Development Strategies through their focus on community wellbeing, liveability, resilience, advocacy, visitor attraction and economic sustainability. Recommended Motion That Council: 1. Formally acknowledges the Yarriambiack Shire Council support for the Municipal Association of Victoria State Council Motion to be submitted by Hindmarsh Shire Council titled "Advocacy for a Rural Mental Health and Wellbeing Local and Satellite Network in the Wimmera”. 2. Formally acknowledges the Yarriambiack Shire Council support for the four MAV State Council Motions to be submitted by Horsham Rural City Council, as listed in the summary section of this report. 3. Notes Yarriambiack Shire Council's existing written support for the Hindmarsh Shire Council and Horsham Rural City Council motions as attached to this report; and 4. Continues to advocate through the Wimmera Southern Mallee Councils Alliance for improved outcomes for rural communities across the region. Attachment Link: Horsham Rural City Council - Ordinary Council Meeting Agenda - 24 August 2026 Link: Hindmarsh Shire Council – Ordinary Council Meeting Minutes – 29 July 2026 Attachment: Letters of Support - Hindmarsh Shire Council MAV Motion and Horsham Rural City Council MAV Motions Discussion The Municipal Association of Victoria State Council provides Victorian councils with an opportunity to advocate collectively on matters of state significance. Hindmarsh Shire Council will submit a motion seeking MAV advocacy to the Victorian Government for the establishment of a Rural Mental Health and Wellbeing Local in the Hindmarsh Shire or a neighbouring municipality, supported by satellite services and 26 August 2026 18 of 78 AGENDA – ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL outreach programs throughout the Wimmera region. The motion is supported by the Wimmera Southern Mallee Councils Alliance which includes Hindmarsh Shire Council, Yarriambiack Shire Council, West Wimmera Shire Council, Buloke Shire Council, Northern Grampians Shire Council and Horsham Rural City Council. Horsham Rural City Council will also lodge four motions focused on rural mental health services, recreational water security, integrated water management funding and telecommunications resilience during emergencies. Together, these motions represent a coordinated regional advocacy agenda addressing key challenges facing rural and regional Victorian communities. 1. Advocacy for a Rural Mental Health and Wellbeing Local and Satellite Network in the Wimmera The Hindmarsh Shire Council motion seeks Victorian Government investment in a regionally coordinated mental health service model that includes: • A Rural Mental Health and Wellbeing Local in Nhill or a neighbouring municipality. • Satellite service locations throughout the Wimmera. • Mobile clinical outreach teams. • Integrated rural outreach programs. • A mental health workforce development hub. • Future Step Up/Step Down subacute facilities. The motion responds to significant and long-standing mental health service inequities across the Wimmera Southern Mallee region, including limited local services, workforce shortages, lack of crisis support and significant travel distances to access care. As a member of the Wimmera Southern Mallee Councils Alliance, Yarriambiack Shire Council has participated in regional advocacy supporting improved mental health services and has provided a formal letter of support for this motion. Improving access to mental health services will contribute to stronger communities, healthier workforces, increased social inclusion and improved quality of life for residents across the region. 2. Tiered Rural and Regional Mental Health and Wellbeing Model The Horsham Rural City Council motion complements the Hindmarsh proposal by advocating for a statewide rural mental health model that includes: • Additional acute psychiatric bed capacity in the Wimmera. • Psychology services in identified service-gap towns. • Expanded counselling and social work services. • Mobile outreach services. • Mental Health and Wellbeing Locals in rural communities. • Future workforce development initiatives. The motion recognises that rural Victorians continue to experience inequitable access to mental health services and seeks long-term systemic reform to address these challenges. For Yarriambiack Shire residents, this motion supports broader improvements to regional health infrastructure and complements local and regional advocacy efforts already underway through the Wimmera Southern Mallee Councils Alliance. 3. Reliability of Water Supply for Recreational Lakes The motion seeks Victorian Government commitment to identify and fund options to improve the reliability of water supplies for recreational lakes affected by drought, climate change and competing water demands. It also advocates for recreational and amenity values to be given greater consideration in regional water planning processes. 26 August 2026 19 of 78 AGENDA – ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL Reliable recreational water assets play an important role in regional liveability, tourism, community wellbeing and local economic activity. They support visitation, recreation opportunities and community events, all of which contribute to the vitality of rural communities. For Yarriambiack Shire, protecting water-based recreation and amenity assets supports broader tourism and community development objectives. 4. Increased Government Funding for Integrated Water Management (IWM) The motion advocates for dedicated ongoing funding and streamlined grant programs to support the implementation of IWM initiatives, including stormwater harvesting, alternative water supplies and waterway health projects. Water security remains a critical issue for rural communities. Increased investment in Integrated Water Management has the potential to improve the sustainability of community infrastructure, public open spaces, sporting facilities and local water supplies. Supporting this motion aligns with Council's commitment to sustainable resource management and climate resilience. 5. Communications Network Resilience During Emergencies The motion seeks improved telecommunications resilience through implementation of recommendations arising from the Victorian Inquiry into the 2026 Summer Fires. This includes telecommunications resilience planning, recognition of telecommunications as an essential service, mandatory backup power standards and expanded satellite communications capability. Reliable communications infrastructure is essential during emergencies, particularly for geographically dispersed rural communities. Improved telecommunications resilience would support emergency response, community safety, visitor management and business continuity during disasters. For Yarriambiack Shire, strengthened communication networks would enhance resilience across the municipality and improve outcomes during emergency events. 6. Conclusion The MAV State Council motions to be submitted by Hindmarsh Shire Council and Horsham Rural City Council address key social, economic, environmental and infrastructure challenges affecting the Wimmera Southern Mallee region and rural Victoria more broadly. As a member of the Wimmera Southern Mallee Councils Alliance, Yarriambiack Shire Council has a strong interest in supporting coordinated regional advocacy that seeks improved outcomes for local communities. The motions align strongly with the Yarriambiack Shire Council Plan 2025-2029, Tourism Strategy and Economic Development Strategy by supporting community wellbeing, regional liveability, tourism growth, economic resilience, water security and emergency preparedness. Accordingly, it is recommended that Council formally endorse support for all five motions. 26 August 2026 20 of 78 AGENDA – ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL 15 REPORTS FOR DECISION 15.1 MODIFIED FINANCIAL AND NON-FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE REPORT Prepared by Anita McFarlane, Chief Financial Officer SUMMARY In accordance with the Local Government Act 2020 and the Local Government (Planning and Reporting) Regulations 2020, Council is required to have an integrated approach to strategic planning with the requirement that monitoring and performance reporting is to be adopted. This is the June modified version which presents both Financial and Non-Financial Performance indicators in accordance with our Performance Reporting Framework. The Profit and Loss, Balance Sheet, and Financial Indicators will be finished as part of the Annual Reporting process and must be completed by 30 September 2026. Recommended Motion: That Council: a) Adopt the quarterly Modified Financial and Non-Financial Performance Report as of 30 June 2026, as attached to this report. ATTACHMENTS Attachment: Modified Financial and Non-Financial Performance Reporting Report 2025- 26 - Quarter 4 DISCUSSION Schedule 1 of the Local Government (Planning and Reporting Regulations) 2020, identifies that Council must produce the following reports within identified time frames as below: a. Quarterly Budget Reports - comparing actual and budgeted results and an explanation of any material variations must be completed. b. Risk Reports - 6-monthly reports of strategic risks to Council's operations, their likelihood, and consequences of occurring and risk minimisation strategies. c. Performance Reports - 6 monthly reports of indicators measuring financial and non-financial performance, including the performance indicators referred to in section 98 of the Local Government Act 2020. The Leadership Team has adopted a holistic approach to meet the requirements of the Local Government Act 2020 and Regulations, by compiling a Quarterly Financial and Non-Financial Performance Report. The report incorporates Budget, Risk and Performance Reporting. Council’s risk appetite has been utilised to develop non-financial performance indicators for reporting purposes. The 4th quarter report is a modified version, in preparation for the end of financial year report to be completed and finalised. The project reports included are preliminary figures only. Final project reports for the conclusion of the financial year will be presented at the September Council Meeting, along with details of final carry-over budget from prior years. For this quarter, the report has been presented to the Leadership Team, to Councillors at Council Forum on 22 July 2026 and was presented to the Audit and Risk Committee on 10 August 2026. RELEVANT LAW • Local Government Act 2020 – Section 97 Quarterly Budget Report • Local Government (Planning and Reporting) Regulations 2020 26 August 2026 21 of 78 AGENDA – ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL COUNCIL PLANS AND POLICIES Council Plan 2025 – 2029 Priorities Strategic Objectives A Council that serves its Community • Undertake robust and transparent planning and risk management to ensure our organisation is sustainable now and into the future. • Embed good governance practices into all decision making. Policies, Procedures, Guidelines, Plans, Strategies and Frameworks Policy Risk Management Manual Guideline Occupational Health and Safety and Wellbeing Guidelines Plan Revenue and Rating Plan Framework Budget Framework and Guidelines Manual Performance Reporting Framework Other Risk Management Manual OVERARCHING GOVERNANCE PRINCIPLES This Council report has been prepared in accordance with, and to give effect to, the overarching governance principles articulated in section 9 of the Local Government Act 2020, to the extent practicable. RELATED COUNCIL DECISIONS • 30 June 2025 – Ordinary Meeting of Council Minutes – Item 15.3 Adoption of the 2025/26 Budget • 27 August 2025 – Ordinary Meeting of Council Minutes – Item 15.2 Modified Financial and Non-Financial Performance Report - Quarter 4 – 2024/25 • 26 November 2025 – Ordinary Meeting of Council Minutes – Item 15.2 Financial and Non-Financial Performance Report • 25 February 2026 – Ordinary Meeting of Council Minutes – Item 15.1 Financial and Non-Financial Performance Report • 27 May 2026 – Ordinary Meeting of Council Minutes – Item 15.1 Financial and Non- Financial Performance Report OPTIONS This report recommends that Council receive a quarterly report including both financial and non-financial performance metrics. Such reporting will strengthen governance, improve oversight, and foster greater transparency in decision-making processes. Options to be considered: a) The Report is presented in a combined overarching report format that is presented quarterly. b) The Reports could be separated into three distinct reports, opposed to a combined overarching report that is presented quarterly. c) The Risk Report and Performance Reports could be moved to 6 monthly in line with the Local Government Act 2020 requirements, with the Budget Reports being quarterly only. 26 August 2026 22 of 78 AGENDA – ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL SUSTAINABILITY IMPLICATIONS Yarriambiack Shire Council is heavily reliant on operational and capital grants as a source of revenue funding. This poses a significant financial risk to Council. Financial Councils’ ability to raise source revenue is restricted by the annual rate cap and is at risk to decreases or increases that are lower than cost inflation. COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT Engagement has not been undertaken to develop the Performance Reporting Framework, and is not required to undertake deliberative engagement in accordance with the Local Government Act 2020 and associated regulations. In accordance with section 9 of the Local Government Act 2020, Council must in the performance of its role give effect to the overarching governance principles. The financial and non-financial performance indicators are utilised as a tool for decision making to achieve good governance. GENDER IMPACT ASSESSMENT Not applicable. RISK Utilising the Risk Management Framework the following assessment has been made: Strategic Risk Description and Action to Mitigate/Reduce Risk Does Action Residual Risk Level maintain or reduce Residual Risk Level Corporate Governance, The quarterly report incorporates the reporting Maintains Residual Risk Compliance and Liability Risk - requirements as outlined in the Local Level Residual Risk Level Low Government (Planning and Reporting) Regulations 2020 Schedule 1. Financial Risk - Residual Risk The quarterly report includes Budget v Actual Maintains Residual Risk Level Medium reporting, which enables management, Audit Level and Risk Committee and Councillors to monitor the financial performance of Council and assess and address risks as they arise. Program and Project Risk - The quarterly report incorporates detailed Maintains Residual Risk Residual Risk Level Medium project reporting, providing enhanced oversight Level on the performance of projects. REGIONAL, STATE AND NATIONAL PLANS AND POLICIES Not applicable. CONFLICTS OF INTEREST All officers involved in the preparation of this report have declared that they do not have a conflict of interest in the subject matter of this report. 26 August 2026 23 of 78 AGENDA – ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL 15.2 TRANSFER OF BEULAH MEMORIAL HALL WATER AND POWER ACCOUNTS TO COUNCIL Presented by Jo White, Governance Officer SUMMARY The Beulah Memorial Hall and adjoining public toilets are not Council-owned assets. However, Council currently cleans and stocks the public toilets as a community service. The Beulah Memorial Hall Committee of Management is currently billed directly for power and water charges. For many years, Council has reimbursed the Committee for these costs due to the public toilets operating from the site. This process requires the Committee to pay each invoice upfront, retain copies of invoices and receipts, and submit them with an annual invoice to Council for reimbursement. This report seeks Council’s endorsement to transfer the power and water accounts into Council’s name. This would streamline the payment process, reduce administrative duplication, and lessen the cash flow burden on the Committee of Management. Recommended Motion: That Council: a) Endorse the Chief Executive Officer or her delegate to arrange for the Electricity and Water Accounts for the Beulah Memorial Hall to be transferred from Beulah Memorial Hall Committee of Management to Yarriambiack Shire Council. ATTACHMENTS Attachment: Letter – 28.03.2014 - Beulah Memorial Hall Committee of Management re Counci l cle aning and payme nt o bligation s Attachment: Letter – 27.10.2019 - to Beulah Memorial Hall re Energy Bill DISCUSSION History of the Beulah Memorial Hall The original Beulah Mechanics Institute in Phillips Street opened in 1894, with the Free Library opening the following year. In 1920, a significant fire destroyed the Hall and all associated records. The local community rallied to rebuild the facility, with the new Institute opening in 1921 and the occasion marked by a grand banquet. A Supper Room was added in 1922, and in 1927 the facility was renamed the Beulah Memorial Hall and Free Library. During World War I, large crowds gathered at the Hall to welcome soldiers home from service, and a Soldiers Lounge was later incorporated into the facility. In 1987, the Ladies Auxiliary launched an appeal to raise $10,000 for a new toilet block adjoining the Hall. The toilet block was completed the following year. Public Toilet Status and Council Contribution Although the Hall and adjoining toilets are not Council-owned assets, Council records indicate that the toilets have been treated as public toilets within the past 20 years. They are also listed on the National Public Toilet Map. Council contributes to the power and water costs of public toilets throughout the Shire. In March 2014, Council committed to providing cleaning services for the Beulah public toilets and initially contributed 50% of the associated power and water costs, as outlined in the attached correspondence. By 2019, use of the Hall had declined, and Council agreed to reimburse the Committee of Management for 100% of the energy costs, as outlined in the attached correspondence. During the COVID-19 period, the Hall was rarely used and continues to host only a small number of events each year. 26 August 2026 24 of 78 AGENDA – ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL Given the limited use of the Hall, it is reasonable to conclude that the majority of utility usage is directly related to the public toilets. Current Billing and Reimbursement Process Historically, utility charges have been billed directly to the Beulah Memorial Hall Committee of Management. The Committee pays the invoices, retains copies of the relevant power and water accounts and receipts, and then invoices Council annually for reimbursement. Rationale for Transferring the Accounts to Council The current reimbursement process places an unnecessary cash flow burden on the Committee of Management, particularly given the reduced hiring of the Hall and its ongoing overheads, including insurance. The process also creates administrative duplication through the payment, copying, invoicing and reimbursement of utility accounts. Transferring the power and water accounts into Council’s name would provide a more efficient and transparent process. It would also align the Beulah public toilets with Council’s broader practice of directly managing utility costs for public toilet facilities across the Shire. RELEVANT LAW Local Government Act 2020 COUNCIL PLANS AND POLICIES Council Plan 2025 – 2029 Priorities Strategic Objectives A Healthy and Inclusive Community • Develop and/or maintain strong partnerships to deliver high quality services and sustainable infrastructure to enhance the social health and wellbeing outcomes for all our residents. • Advocate, prioritise, and invest in infrastructure that supports an accessible, inclusive, and socially connected community to improve liveability. • Advocate and support community safety initiatives, that enhance community safety and the liveability of our communities. • Promote and support volunteerism throughout our Shire, recognising that collaborative efforts can lead to enhanced outcomes for our communities. A Council that serves its Community • Embed good governance practices into all decision making. • Advocate for our community, on matters that are important to the entire municipal district. • Build trust through engaging with our community, delivering quality services and outcomes. • Consider a broad base of evidence before making decisions, ensuring value for money and responsive, innovative services and solutions are provided. Policies, Procedures, Guidelines, Plans, Strategies and Frameworks Policy Community Engagement Policy and Procedure OVERARCHING GOVERNANCE PRINCIPLES This Council report has been prepared in accordance with, and to give effect to, the overarching governance principles articulated in section 9 of the Local Government Act 2020, to the extent practicable. RELATED COUNCIL DECISIONS Not applicable. 26 August 2026 25 of 78 AGENDA – ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL OPTIONS Council could retain the current reimbursement process, noting that it does not own the assets and that changing the arrangement may create a precedent. However, no comparable arrangements exist elsewhere, and the toilets are public facilities. Hall toilets such as Brim and Hopetoun are owned by Council, and Council pays the utilities costs. SUSTAINABILITY IMPLICATIONS Transferring the accounts for power and water into Council’s name would reduce Social the workload for the volunteers of the Beulah Memorial Hall Committee of Management. Transferring the accounts for power and water into Council’s name would be Financial more efficient, and also negate any cash flow issues on the Beulah Hall Committee of Management’s cashflow as they are only reimbursed annually. COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT Not applicable. GENDER IMPACT ASSESSMENT Not applicable. RISK Utilising the Risk Management Framework the following assessment has been made: Strategic Risk Description and Action to Mitigate/Reduce Risk Does Action Residual Risk Level maintain or reduce Residual Risk Level Reputational Risk - Residual Risk The transfer of the Beulah Hall/Public Toilet Reduces Residual Risk Level Low power and water accounts to Council will enable Level the Hall committee to continue to manage the facilities and day to day operations of the Hall without unnecessary impact on their cash flow. Financial Risk - Residual Risk The transfer of the Beulah Hall/Public Toilet Reduces Residual Risk Level Medium power and water accounts to Council aligns with Level current practice for other Halls/Public Toilets throughout the Shire, where the toilets are dual purpose public toilets. REGIONAL, STATE AND NATIONAL PLANS AND POLICIES Not applicable. CONFLICTS OF INTEREST All officers involved in the preparation of this report have declared that they do not have a conflict of interest in the subject matter of this report. 26 August 2026 26 of 78 AGENDA – ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL 15.3 FUEL MANAGEMENT POLICY AND PROCEDURE Prepared by Joel Turner, Chief Engineering Officer SUMMARY The Fuel Management Policy and Procedure has been prepared to strengthen Council’s prevention, detection and response controls for fuel purchasing, fuel card use, supplier accounts, fuel storage and bulk fuel distribution. The Policy and Procedure clarifies roles and accountabilities, improves transparency over Council fuel use, and supports the transition from manual bulk fuel records to a digital fuel tracking system. Recommended Motion: That Council: a) Adopts the Fuel Management Policy and Procedure as attached to this report. ATTACHMENTS Attachment: Fuel Management Policy and Procedure DISCUSSION The Fuel Management Policy and Procedure establishes a consistent framework for managing Council fuel systems and reducing the risk of fuel theft, misuse, inaccurate allocation and weak accountability. It supports effective governance over fuel cards, approved supplier accounts, bulk fuel purchases, tanker fuel distribution, transaction records, reconciliations and incident reporting. • Fuel management controls The Policy and Procedure introduces prevention, detection and response controls including secure fuel storage, restricted access to fuel cards and fuel pumps, transaction monitoring, staff education, reporting requirements and investigation processes. • Fuel card governance Fuel cards are assigned to specific Council vehicles, plant items or fuel tankers and are not interchangeable. Fuel cards must only be used for official Council business, and unauthorised or personal use may result in recovery of costs and disciplinary action. • Roles and accountabilities The Chief Engineering Officer provides final oversight and approval for fuel management controls. The Business Lead Asset Systems, Networks and Planning is responsible for day-to-day fuel card compliance and bulk fuel oversight, supported by the Customer Liaison Administrator for administration and by Works Supervisors, Finance, Payroll and Accounts Payable for reconciliation, review and exception management. • Bulk fuel and tanker controls Council will purchase bulk fuel in approved fuel tanker trailers to support construction and maintenance works. Interim paper records require the fuel quantity, plant number, employee name and signature, with monthly reconciliation by supervisors until the digital fuel tracking system is implemented. • Digital fuel tracking The Policy and Procedure supports implementation of a digital fuel tracking system for portable fuel trailers. The system will improve accountability by recording user, asset, equipment and quantity dispensed at the point of fuel issue, enabling improved reporting, reconciliation and exception review. • Monitoring, review and continuous improvement The Policy and Procedure requires regular audits, monthly reconciliations, monitoring of unusual fuel activity, escalation of unexplained variances, record keeping and periodic review to ensure controls remain effective. 26 August 2026 27 of 78 AGENDA – ORDINARY MEETING OF COUNCIL The Policy and Procedure supports Council’s obligations under the Local Government Act 2020 by promoting good governance, financial control, fraud prevention, risk management, transparency and responsible management of public resources. RELEVANT LAW • Local Government Act 2020 • Public Interest Disclosures Act 2012 • Privacy and Data Protection Act 2014 • Occupational Health and Safety Act 2004 • Environment Protection Act 2017 COUNCIL PLANS AND POLICIES Council Plan 2025–2029 Priorities Strategic Objective A Council that serves its Community • Undertake robust and transparent planning and risk management to ensure our organisation is sustainable now and into the future. • Embed good governance practices into all decision making. • Build trust through engaging with our community, delivering quality services and outcomes. • Consider a broad base of evidence before making decisions, ensuring value for money and responsive, innovative services and solutions are provided. Related Policies, Procedures and Manuals Policy • Fraud and Corruption Prevention Policy • Information Privacy Policy • Procurement Policy • Public Interest Disclosure Policy and Procedure Procedure / Guidelines • Procurement Management Manual • Finance and Payroll Management Manual • Motor Vehicle Manual Forms •