Council Meeting

held at the Council Chamber, 32 Civic Drive, Greensborough
on
Tuesday 24 February 2026 commencing at 7:00 PM.

Minutes

 

 

 

Carl Cowie

Chief Executive Officer

Friday 27 February 2026

 

 

Distribution:   Public

Civic Drive, Greensborough

PO Box 476, Greensborough 3088

Telephone        9433 3111

Facsimile          9433 3777

Website            www.nillumbik.vic.gov.au

Email                nillumbik@nillumbik.vic.gov.au

 

 

Main Doc - CMYK


 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Council Meeting Minutes                             24 February 2026

Nillumbik Shire Council

Contents

1.       Welcome  1

2.       Acknowledgement 1

3.       Good Governance Pledge  1

4.       Prayer 1

5.       Apologies\Leave of Absence  1

6.       Declarations of conflict of interest 2

7.       Presentations  2

8.       Confirmation of Minutes  5

COM.001/26       Confirmation of Minutes Council Meeting held Tuesday 9 December 2025  5

9.       Petitions  7

10.     Questions from the gallery  7

11.     Reports of Advisory Committees  9

AC.001/26            Advisory Committee Report 24 February 2026  9

12.     Officers' reports  11

CM.001/26           December Quarter Financial Report 11

CM.002/26           Council Plan Quarterly Performance Report - Q2, 2025-2026  13

CM.003/26           Health and Wellbeing Plan Quarterly Performance Report 15

CM.004/26           Local Government Performance Framework - Mid-year Performance Report - January 2026  17

CM.005/26           Nillumbik Shire Council motions to the Australian Local Government Association - National General Assembly  19

CM.006/26           Hurstbridge Dog Park Upgrade - Final Design Endorsement 21

CM.007/26           Naming proposal for Reserve in John Street, Eltham   23

CM.008/26           Mays Road and Kapili Way, Eltham - Special Charge Scheme  25

CM.009/26           Draft Terms of Reference and proposed EOI process for the Living & Learning Advisory Committee. 27

CM.010/26           Environment and Sustainability Advisory Committee (ESAC) - Renew Terms of Reference  29

CM.011/26           Lease and Loan Guarantor - North Eltham Wanderers Cricket Club  31

CM.012/26           Tender Report - Contract 2526-024 - Vendor Neutral Panel for Contingent Labour 33

CM.013/26           Informal Meetings of Councillors Records - 24 February 2026  35

13.     Notices of Motion  37

NOM.001/26       Vandalism of War Memorials  37

14.     Delegates' Reports  37

15.     Supplementary and urgent business  38

16.     Confidential reports  38

17.     Close of Meeting  38

 

 

 


Council Meeting Minutes                             24 February 2026

Nillumbik Shire Council

Minutes of the Meeting of Nillumbik Shire Council held Tuesday 24 February 2026.
The meeting
commenced at 7.00pm.

Councillors present:

Cr Naomi Joiner            Bunjil Ward (Mayor)

Cr Kate McKay             Swipers Gully Ward (Deputy Mayor)

Cr Grant Brooker          Blue Lake Ward

Cr Kelly Joy                  Edendale Ward

Cr Peter Perkins           Ellis Ward

Cr Kim Cope                 Sugarloaf Ward

Officers in attendance:

Carl Cowie                    Chief Executive Officer

Derek Rotter                 Chief Operating Officer

Blaga Naumoski            Director Governance, Communications and Community Safety

Corrienne Nichols         Director Communities

Frank Vassilacos           Director Planning, Environment and Strategy

Jeremy Livingston         Director Culture and Performance

Katia Croce                   Manager Governance and Property

 

 

1.     Welcome

2.     Acknowledgement

Acknowledgement of Country was read by the Mayor, Naomi Joiner.

3.     Good Governance Pledge

        The Good Governance Pledge was read by Cr Kelly Joy.

4.     Prayer

A prayer was read by Pastor Sam Scott.

5.     Apologies\Leave of Absence

A request for a leave of absence was received by Cr John Dumaresq.

Council to note any apologies by Councillors not in attendance and or consider requests for any leave of absence submitted.

Council Resolution

MOVED:           Cr Kim Cope

SECONDED:    Cr Grant Brooker

That Council accepts the leave of absence for Cr John Dumaresq for 24  February  2026.

CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY 

6.     Declarations of conflict of interest

Nil

7.     Presentations

·            Condolence - Pat Corr.

We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of former Nillumbik resident Pat Corr.

Pat along with his late wife Gayle, were loyal and dedicated members of the Arthurs Creek and Strathewen Rural Fire brigade for over 46 years. He contributed to the brigade as an active fire fighter and held many roles within the brigade. He was always ready to assist in any task and was a valued member of the VFBV District 14 Council for many years.

Since moving to Arthus Creek in the 1970’s, Pat contributed significantly to the community, including editing the Arthurs Creek Community Newsletter for nearly 40 years and helping establish the Arthurs Creek Community Centre.

Pat and Gayle were founding members of the Arthurs Creek and District Landcare Group in 1993. He stepped off the committee in 2013 but remained an active member of the group. Pat helped organise annual community events such as Clean Up Australia Day and Planet Ark planting day with Arthurs Creek Primary School at Ryders Flat Reserve.

Pat and Gayle also founded the Cottles Bridge Landcare Group in 1997, where they conducted many working bees along the Diamond Creek at the Cottles Bridge. They were also active members of Strathewen Landcare and contributed to the Nillumbik Landcare Network.

Pat served on several Council and State Environmental Steering Committees and Reference Groups contributing valuable input to a range of Council environmental projects.

Pat will be sorely missed by all who knew him and on behalf of Nillumbik Shire Council, we pass on our condolences to Pat’s family and friends.

 

·            Condolence - Alex King

We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Nillumbik resident Alex King at 90 years of age.

Alex arrived in Panton Hill in 1964 after fleeing war torn Slovenia. He and his wife Aurora worked in partnership with his parents in a local poultry business for 50 years, which they had to rebuild after the devastating 1969 fires that decimated Panton Hill.

Alex became involved in the school, football and cricket clubs, and the broader community of Panton Hill after the arrival of their three children. 

His service as President, Vice President and Treasurer across both football and cricket clubs stands as a testament to his dedication. Few have been honoured with life membership of both clubs – an achievement that speaks to the impact he made over generations.

Remembered as kind, and always ready for a chat, Alex’s passing generated an outpouring of reminiscences and praise, he was not just part of the two clubs, but the whole town. He was loved by many generations in Panton Hill.

Alex helped give full meaning to the sense of community. He always wanted his community and sporting teams to be a full reflection of how welcoming, supportive, and beneficial such organisations can be for those who are part of that world.

A quote from his memorial service best sums up his life in Panton Hill. “He spent his ninety years in investing in all those around him, especially at the footy club and cricket club. For that investment he will always be remembered.”

On behalf of Nillumbik Shire Council, we pass on our condolences to Alex’s family and friends.

 

·            Recognition - Greg Shaw – Paul Harris Fellow Honouree

The Rotary Club of Eltham has proudly recognised Greg Shaw as a Paul Harris Fellow, an honour reserved for individuals who demonstrate exceptional service, leadership, and care for their community.

Named after Rotary’s founder, this recognition reflects the values of “Service Above Self”. 

Greg’s 38 years of dedicated service in Council Operations have made him a trusted and generous presence in our community – a true embodiment of the Rotary spirit.

Congratulations Greg on this outstanding achievement.

 

·            Australia Day 2026 Honours List

It was great, yet again, to see a member of our community being recognised for their achievements in the recent Governor-General’s Australia Day Honours List and tonight I would like to acknowledge them and their achievements.

Nillumbik resident Nektarios (Nick) Parissis was awarded the Australian Police Medal, for distinguished service as a member of an Australian police force.

I would like to commend Nick for his dedication, service and achievement of excellence. He embodies the Nillumbik ethos of service, diligence, commitment and above all, serving the broader community. Thank you.

 

 

 


 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Council Meeting Minutes                             24 February 2026

8.     Confirmation of Minutes

COM.001/26     Confirmation of Minutes Council Meeting held Tuesday 9 December 2025

Confirmation of the Minutes of the Council Meeting held on Tuesday 9 December 2025.

Council Resolution

MOVED:           Cr Kim Cope

SECONDED:    Cr Kate McKay

That Council confirms the Minutes of the Council Meeting held on Tuesday 9 December  2025 (Attachment 1).

CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY 


 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Council Meeting Minutes                             24 February 2026

9.     Petitions

Nil

10.   Questions from the gallery

Julie Bradley has submitted the following questions:

Question 1

The Nillumbik Shire Council has provided information regarding why Challenger Street Reserve is the proposed site for the BMX Jumps and Recreation Park. However no details have been released on why the area at and surrounding the Skate Park on Elizabeth Street was not considered for the new Park. There are existing jumps at this site and it is adjacent to the Nillumbik Youth Hub and Diamond Creek Station. Why is the Skate Park at Elizabeth not a suitable location?

Response 1

Council’s further assessment of alternative sites in 2025 was based on the following criteria:

1.         Located within Diamond Creek

2.         Close proximity to the original informal BMX jumps site

3.         Located outside the 1:100 year floodplain (as determined by Melbourne Water), recognising relevant heritage and planning overlays

4.         Located outside the 200 metre buffer from Diamond Creek, thereby avoiding areas of cultural heritage sensitivity and removing the need for a Cultural Heritage Management Plan (CHMP)

The Skate Park site on Elizabeth Street does not meet two of these four criteria. Specifically, it is located within the 1:100 year floodplain and within the 200 metre buffer from Diamond Creek. As a result, it was not included in the further assessment undertaken by Council in 2025.

Question 2

If the BMX Jumps and Recreation Park proceeds at Challenger Street Reserve, an area covered by an ESO1 (which acknowledges the valuable and delicate environment at this site) what will be the schedule for the removal of rubbish and the cleaning of the toilets and other facilities, to ensure the area isn't further disrupted and destroyed?

Response 2

Cleaning of all new toilet facilities is undertaken daily, seven days a week. Council Officers monitor usage patterns and cleaner feedback and adjust cleaning frequency as required.

Standard waste collection occurs twice weekly on nominated days, with the schedule adjusted if necessary, based on demand. Collection of dumped rubbish is carried out on an as needed basis, and members of the community can report issues online or by calling 9433 3111.


 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Council Meeting Minutes                             24 February 2026

11.   Reports of Advisory Committees

AC.001/26        Advisory Committee Report 24 February 2026

Distribution:    Public

Manager:         Blaga Naumoski, Director Governance, Communications and Community Safety

Author:            Katia Croce, Manager Governance and Property

Summary

Council has a range of Advisory Committees which provide a formal mechanism for Council to consult with key stakeholders, seek specialist advice and enable community participation. Although they do not make any formal decisions, they provide valuable advice to Council.

In accordance with Advisory Committee Terms of Reference, the following minutes of Advisory Committee meetings are attached (Attachment 1) and presented to Council for noting:

1.     Environment and Sustainability Advisory Committee (ESAC) meeting held 19 November 2025;

2.     Youth Council meeting held 1 December 2025;

3.     Recreation Trails Advisory Committee meeting held 10 December 2025;

4.     Inclusion and Access Advisory Committee meeting held 12 December 2025; and

5.     Youth Council meeting held 2 February 2026.

Council Resolution

MOVED:           Cr Kim Cope

SECONDED:    Cr Peter Perkins

That Council notes the Minutes of the Advisory Committee meetings reported (Attachment 1).

CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY 

 


 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Council Meeting Minutes                             24 February 2026

12.   Officers' reports

CM.001/26        December Quarter Financial Report

Distribution:    Public

Manager:         Jeremy Livingston, Director Culture and Performance

Author:            Bulent Oz, Chief Financial Officer

Summary

This report outlines Council’s financial performance and position for the period ended 31 December 2026.

The Income Statement shows an overall favourable year to date (YTD) variance of $1.8 million representing 3.80% of YTD Budget. This reflects the combined result of higher than budgeted operating income of $1.88 million and higher than budgeted operating expenses of $76,000.

Council’s financial position at quarter-end remains sound and stable, with net assets of $1.076 billion and cash holdings of $30.7 million.

Council Resolution

MOVED:           Cr Kim Cope

SECONDED:    Cr Grant Brooker

That Council receives and notes the Financial Report for the period ended 31 December 2025 (Attachment 1).

CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY 

 


 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Council Meeting Minutes                             24 February 2026

12.   Officers' reports

CM.002/26        Council Plan Quarterly Performance Report - Q2, 2025-2026

Distribution:    Public

Manager:         Jeremy Livingston, Director Culture and Performance

Author:            James Hartigan, Business Performance Analyst       

Summary

The purpose of this report is to present the Council Plan Quarterly Performance Report for noting. These reporting updates are received by Council on a quarterly basis to exhibit in a practicable and tangible way how the Council Plan 2025-2029 is being delivered to the community.

The Council Plan Quarterly Performance Report provides the first update on delivery progress and performance of the 2025-2026 Annual Action Plan actions, which align to delivery of the first year of the Council Plan 2025-2029.

Of the 55 actions in the 2025-2026 Annual Action Plan, 35 actions are reported on a quarterly basis, with the remainder reported at the end of the financial year. Of the 35 quarterly reporting actions, 33 actions are ‘on track’ for completion and two actions are experiencing minor issues (Attachment 1).

The overall position reflected in the report suggests that Council has made a solid start in commencing delivery on key actions of the Council Plan and significant outcomes for the community.

Council Resolution

MOVED:           Cr Kate McKay

SECONDED:    Cr Grant Brooker

That Council receives and notes the Council Plan Quarterly Performance Report for the second quarter of 2025-2026.

CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY 

 


 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Council Meeting Minutes                             24 February 2026

12.   Officers' reports

CM.003/26        Health and Wellbeing Plan Quarterly Performance Report

Distribution:    Public

Manager:         Nichole Johnson, Acting Director Communities

Author:            Yasmin Green, Coordinator Youth, Social Planning and Equity

Summary

The purpose of this report is to present the Quarter 1 and Quarter 2 Health and Wellbeing Plan 2025-2029 Quarterly Performance Report (Attachment 1) for noting. The Report provides the first progress update on the delivery of the Year One Action Plan 2025-2026 and outlines key achievements across the first two quarters.

The Year One Action Plan 2025-2026 includes 32 actions. Of these, all actions are currently on track for completion at the end of Quarter 4.

Overall, the report demonstrates a strong commencement to the implementation of the Health and Wellbeing Plan, with positive outcomes and meaningful benefits already emerging in the community.

Council Resolution

MOVED:           Cr Kelly Joy

SECONDED:    Cr Grant Brooker

That Council receives and notes the Health and Wellbeing Plan Quarterly Performance Report for Quarter 1 and Quarter 2 for 2025-2026.

CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY 

 


 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Council Meeting Minutes                             24 February 2026

12.   Officers' reports

CM.004/26        Local Government Performance Framework - Mid-year Performance Report - January 2026

Distribution:    Public

Manager:         Jeremy Livingston, Director Culture and Performance

Author:            James Hartigan, Business Performance Analyst       

Summary

The Local Government Performance Reporting Framework (LGPRF) is a mandatory reporting system introduced by the State Government in 2014 to ensure all Victorian councils are measuring and reporting on their performance in a consistent way.

The purpose of this report is to present (for noting) the LGPRF mid-year service performance results for the 2025-2026 financial year.

The report measures Council’s current performance against the expected range (based on the LGPRF guidelines set by the State Government) as well as comparing Council’s current performance against similar councils.

This is the seventh time Council is completing a mid-year progress update on the LGPRF indicators, with the aim of the report to provide more frequent and current data to better monitor and more proactively address any issues or trends identified with Council’s performance.

The mid-year results indicate that Council is performing well against the LGPRF, with 93% of indicators measuring either within or exceeding the expected range based on Local Government Victoria guidelines. Also, 76% of indicators are measuring better performance results than similar councils.

Council Resolution

MOVED:           Cr Grant Brooker

SECONDED:    Cr Kate McKay

That Council notes the Local Government Performance Reporting Framework (LGPRF) service performance results for the period from July to December 2025 (Attachment 1).

CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY 

 


 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Council Meeting Minutes                             24 February 2026

12.   Officers' reports

CM.005/26        Nillumbik Shire Council motions to the Australian Local Government Association - National General Assembly

Distribution:    Public

Manager:         Blaga Naumoski, Director Governance, Communications and Community Safety

Author:            Michele Purtle, Manager Advocacy Communications and Engagement       

Summary

The Australian Local Government Association (ALGA) National General Assembly (NGA) provides the opportunity for Councils throughout Australia to contribute to the development of national local government policy and receive updates on the major policy issues facing the local government sector.

The NGA will be held in Canberra from 23-25 June 2026, featuring the theme Stronger Together: Resilient. Productive. United. The Assembly is a major event and typically attracts more than 600 Mayors, Councillors and senior officers from across Australia.

The NGA is an opportunity for individual councils to identify matters of national relevance to the sector, influence the future direction of their Council and community, and to submit notices of motion to seek support for these matters to be considered by the NGA as national policy.

Motions must be submitted no later than 27 February 2026.

Motions that are carried by the NGA become resolutions, which are then considered by the ALGA Board when setting national local government policy, while also feeding into the Australian Council of Local Government processes. Each of the three motions submitted by Nillumbik at last year’s NGA was passed by delegates and became resolutions.

This report seeks endorsement of the Nillumbik Shire Council - Motions to be put forward to the ALGA NGA in June 2026.

Council Resolution

MOVED:           Cr Grant Brooker

SECONDED:    Cr Kate McKay

That Council:

1.     Endorses three motions to the upcoming ALGA National General Assembly, to be held in Canberra from 23-25 June 2026. The motions are:

a)     The Australian Local Government Association calls on the Australian Government to increase grant funding and investment of infrastructure to support the delivery of their National Feral Deer Action Plan 2023 which aims to limit the spread of feral deer into new areas and reduce their negative impacts on agriculture, communities and the environment.

 

 

 

b)     The Australian Local Government Association calls on the Australian Government to collaborate with state and local governments to develop clear guidance, reporting criteria, and implementation timelines to support local governments in meeting forthcoming national climate‑related reporting obligations.

c)     The Australian Local Government Association calls on the Australian Government to strengthen the national emissions reduction framework by introducing an economy wide carbon pricing mechanism and to dedicate a transparent share of carbon pricing revenue to a Local Government Net Zero Fund. 

2.     Submits all motions to ALGA no later than 27 February 2026.

3.     Resolves to move the June 2026 Council Meeting date from 23 June to 30 June.

CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Council Meeting Minutes                             24 February 2026

12.   Officers' reports

CM.006/26        Hurstbridge Dog Park Upgrade - Final Design Endorsement

Distribution:    Public

Manager:         Derek Rotter, Chief Operating Officer

Author:            Stewart Broussard, Manager Recreation and Leisure       

Summary

This report seeks Council’s endorsement of the Hurstbridge Dog Park final concept plan following community consultation.

Council Resolution

MOVED:           Cr Peter Perkins

SECONDED:    Cr Kate McKay

That Council:

1.     Notes the changes made to the Hurstbridge Dog Park concept plan.

2.     Endorses the final concept plan (Attachment 1) for the purpose of appointing a contractor to deliver the works.

CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY 

 


 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Council Meeting Minutes                             24 February 2026

12.   Officers' reports

CM.007/26        Naming proposal for Reserve in John Street, Eltham

Distribution:    Public

Manager:         Blaga Naumoski, Director Governance, Communications and Community Safety

Author:            Natalie Campion, Coordinator Property       

Summary

Council has received a request from a local resident (Naming Proponent) to name a small reserve (pocket park) at the end of their street (John Street, Eltham), ‘Gordon Ford Reserve’ as shown on Attachment 1.

The park area at present does not have a registered name with the Registrar of Geographic Names – Vicnames.

The name has been proposed after Gordon Ford, a resident of John Street, Eltham who passed away in 1999. Gordon Ford was a respected Landscape Architect who was passionate about Australian natural-bush landscape. Please see Attachment 3 - Synopsis by the naming applicant.

The Reserve is already known by locals as Gordon Ford Reserve and named ‘Gordon Ford Memorial Park’ on google maps. Council and residents have completed works at this Reserve in honour of Gordon Ford since 2021, including a memorial on a seat in honour of Gordon Ford, landscaping and planting. Residents continue improvement works such as plantings in the Reserve.

This report is seeking to commence a public consultation process on the proposed name as required under section 7 of the Naming rules for places in Victoria – 2022 (Naming Rules) and Council’s Community Engagement Policy as outlined in Attachment 2.

Council Resolution

MOVED:           Cr Kate McKay

SECONDED:    Cr Kelly Joy

That Council:

1.     Endorses the commencement of the public consultation process as outlined in Attachment 2 on the proposed naming of the Reserve, located at the eastern end of John Street in Eltham to ‘Gordon Ford Reserve’ as shown on the plan in Attachment 1 as required under Section 7 of the Naming Rules for Places in Victoria – 2022 (Naming Rules) and Council’s Community Engagement Policy.

2.     Requests all residents and businesses abutting the Reserve be formally advised of the proposal to name the Reserve ‘Gordon Ford Reserve’.

3.     Invites public submissions on the naming proposal for the Reserve in John Street, Eltham between Friday 27 February to Sunday 29 March 2026.

CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY 

 


 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Council Meeting Minutes                             24 February 2026

12.   Officers' reports

CM.008/26        Mays Road and Kapili Way, Eltham - Special Charge Scheme

Distribution:    Public

Manager:         Derek Rotter, Chief Operating Officer

Author:            Steven Blight, Manager Capital and Infrastructure       

Summary

On 26 September 2022, Council received a petition by property owners to seal part of Mays Road (Sweeneys Lane to Kapili Way) and all of Kapili Way in Eltham, with costs recovered via the implementation of a Special Charge Scheme.

Council officers prepared a concept design and cost estimate for the Mays Road and Kapili Way Scheme. The estimated cost of the works is between $290,000 and $348,600.

On 9 September 2025, a formal questionnaire and cost apportionment were sent to property owners to determine their level of support for a Special Charge Scheme for Mays Road and Kapili Way. The level of support was 43 percent (6 of the 14 property owners), which is below the 60 percent threshold to proceed.

As most of the support was from property owners on Kapili Way, Council officers prepared a concept design and cost estimate for a Special Charge Scheme for Kapili Way only. The estimated cost of the works is between $211,000 and $253,200.

On 2 December 2025, a formal questionnaire and cost apportionment were sent to property owners on Kapili Way to determine their level of support for a Special Charge Scheme for Kapili Way.  The level of support was 57 percent (4 of the 7 property owners).

As the level of support for both proposed Schemes is below the 60 percent threshold, it is recommended that Council abandons the proposed Schemes and places any further investigation of the Schemes on a three-year moratorium.

Council Resolution

MOVED:           Cr Kate McKay

SECONDED:    Cr Kelly Joy

That Council:

1.     Abandons further investigation into the Special Charge Scheme for both Mays Road and Kapili Way in Eltham

2.     Abandons further investigation into the Special Charge Scheme for Kapili Way in Eltham.

3.     Places any further investigation for both Schemes on a three-year moratorium, commencing 24 February 2026.

4.     Notes that Officers will advise affected property owners of Council’s resolution.

CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY 

 


 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Council Meeting Minutes                             24 February 2026

12.   Officers' reports

CM.009/26        Draft Terms of Reference and proposed EOI process for the Living & Learning Advisory Committee.

Distribution:    Public

Manager:         Nichole Johnson, Acting Director Communities

Author:            Hilary Duns-McKay, Learning and Engagement Coordinator       

Summary

The Living & Learning Nillumbik Advisory Committee (the Committee) provides a formal mechanism for Council to consult with key stakeholders, seek specialist advice and enable community participation in supporting lifelong learning, social connection and build skills and wellbeing across the Living & Learning Nillumbik network.

Revised Terms of Reference, (Attachment 1) together with the proposed process to renew the Committee, are presented to Council for consideration.

Council Resolution

MOVED:           Cr Grant Brooker

SECONDED:    Cr Kelly Joy

That Council:

1.     Endorses the revised Terms of Reference (ToR) for the Living & Learning Nillumbik Advisory Committee (Attachment 1)

2.     Endorses the commencement of the Expression of Interest process for membership of the Living & Learning Nillumbik Advisory Committee, to run from 3 March to 31  March 2026.

3.     Notes that the recommended 2026 membership appointments for the Living & Learning Nillumbik Advisory Committee will be presented for Council consideration at the 26 May 2026 Council Meeting.

CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY 

 


 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Council Meeting Minutes                             24 February 2026

12.   Officers' reports

CM.010/26        Environment and Sustainability Advisory Committee (ESAC) - Renew Terms of Reference

Distribution:    Public

Manager:         Frank Vassilacos, Director Planning, Environment and Strategy

Author:            Amanda Kern, Manager Strategic Planning, Transport and Environment       

Summary

The current 2024-2026 term of Council’s Environment and Sustainability Advisory Committee (ESAC) is nearing completion.

This report provides an overview of the remit and work of the current ESAC, makes recommendations for minor edits to the Terms of Reference, and recommends that a recruitment process to appoint a new committee for the 2026-2028 period be undertaken.

During its current term, ESAC has contributed to, or considered, a wide range of matters, including Urban Tree Canopy Strategy, Domestic Animal Management Plan and cat curfew, platypus projects, sustainable transport, wildlife vehicle strikes, community carbon emissions, Municipal Public Health and Wellbeing Plan, Climate Action Plan and Biodiversity Strategy development and implementation.

The last meeting of the current committee will be in April, and the first meeting of the new committee will be in July 2026.

Council Resolution

MOVED:           Cr Kate McKay

SECONDED:    Cr Kim Cope

That Council:

1.     Acknowledges and thank members of the existing Environment and Sustainability Advisory Committee (ESAC) for their advice and practical contribution to environment and sustainability outcomes for the Shire over the term of the committee.

2.     Endorses the revised Terms of Reference for the new ESAC (Attachment 1).

3.     Approves the commencement for recruitment of a new ESAC committee, comprising an expression of interest and membership nomination period, to enable Council to approve a new ESAC committee for 2026-2028.

4.     Instructs officers to report nominations to the Environment and Sustainability Advisory Committee to Council for endorsement.

CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY 

 


 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Council Meeting Minutes                             24 February 2026

12.   Officers' reports

CM.011/26        Lease and Loan Guarantor - North Eltham Wanderers Cricket Club

Distribution:    Public

Manager:         Carl Cowie, Chief Executive Officer

Author:            Stewart Broussard, Manager Recreation and Leisure

Derek Rotter, Chief Operating Officer

Summary

North Eltham Wanderers Cricket Club (NEWCC) describes itself as a welcoming, family-friendly cricket club with over 295 male and female members across junior, male and female senior and veteran categories.

NEWCC uses multiple Council facilities, including three natural turf grounds and two pavilions, with a proposed year-round lease for Eltham North Pavilion.

NEWCC has agreed to settle the outstanding contribution to Council for the Pavilion Project of 2020 via a bank loan. In order for NEWCC to secure a bank loan, they require Council to act as a loan guarantor and be provided a lease.

Council Resolution

MOVED:           Cr Kelly Joy

SECONDED:    Cr Peter Perkins

That Council:

1.     Acts as a loan guarantor for North Eltham Wanderers Cricket Club (NEWCC) to settle an outstanding contribution to Council for the Pavilion Project of 2020.

a)     Provides a letter to the bank confirming Council’s intention to guarantee a loan to NEWCC.

b)     Affixes the common seal of Nillumbik Shire Council to the necessary loan guarantee documentation. (Officers will put this in the recommendation summary for the Council Report when we seek resolution).

c)     Notes that any potential future redraw request must be endorsed through a Council resolution.

2.     Executes a new lease agreement for its use of the Pavilion at Eltham North Reserve.

CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY 

 


 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Council Meeting Minutes                             24 February 2026

12.   Officers' reports

CM.012/26        Tender Report - Contract 2526-024 - Vendor Neutral Panel for Contingent Labour

Distribution:    Public

Manager:         Jeremy Livingston, Director Culture and Performance

Author:            Dimitra Barnes, Manager Human Resources

Liann Filer, Senior Procurement Specialist       

Summary

This report recommends the awarding of contract 2526-024 for Provision of Temporary Labour Hire - Neutral Vendor Managed Services.

The contract term is for an initial period of 1 Year, with 3 x 1 year options to extend the contract and is sourced through an authorised agency agreement via Procurement Australia, which was established by a public tender process carried out in 2025. The total duration of the contract, including the exercise of any options, shall not exceed 4 years.

This is a business as usual contract and replaces an existing contract arrangement that was established by Procurement Australia in 2020.

The Tender Evaluation Panel (TEP) has assessed all submissions and this report provides a summary of their evaluation in recommending the awarding of the contract for 2526-024 for Provision of Temporary Labour Hire - Neutral Vendor Managed Services.

Pursuant to the Instrument of Delegation to the Chief Executive Officer, the value of this contract exceeds the specified financial limits and a Council resolution is therefore required to award the contract.

Recommendation

That Council:

1.     Accepts the tender submitted by the preferred tenderer for the schedule of rates disclosed in (Attachment 1) and enter into the following contract:

Number:        2526-024

Title:              Provision of Temporary Labour Hire Neutral Vendor Managed Services

Term:            1 January 2026 to 31 December 2026

Options:        Term extensions up to 2029

2.     Authorises the Director Culture and Performance to finalise and execute the contract documentation.

3.     Authorises the Director Culture and Performance to approve contract term extensions.

4.     Makes public the decision regarding this contract but the Tender Evaluation Report (Attachment 1) remain confidential on the grounds specified in the definition of confidential information in section 3(1)(g) of the Local Government Act 2020.

5.     Resolves that the preferred tenderer be named.

Council Resolution

MOVED:           Cr Grant Brooker

SECONDED:    Cr Kim Cope

That Council:

1.     Accepts the tender submitted by the preferred tenderer Comensura Pty Ltd for the schedule of rates disclosed in (Attachment 1) and enter into the following contract:

Number:        2526-024

Title:              Provision of Temporary Labour Hire Neutral Vendor Managed Services

Term:            1 January 2026 to 31 December 2026

Options:        Term extensions up to 2029

2.     Authorises the Director Culture and Performance to finalise and execute the contract documentation.

3.     Authorises the Director Culture and Performance to approve contract term extensions.

4.     Makes public the decision regarding this contract but the Tender Evaluation Report (Attachment 1) remain confidential on the grounds specified in the definition of confidential information in section 3(1)(g) of the Local Government Act 2020.

5.     Resolves that the preferred tenderer be named.

CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Council Meeting Minutes                             24 February 2026

12.   Officers' reports

CM.013/26        Informal Meetings of Councillors Records - 24 February 2026

Distribution:    Public

Manager:         Blaga Naumoski, Director Governance, Communications and Community Safety

Author:            Katia Croce, Manager Governance and Property

Summary

In accordance with Item 20 of Council’s Governance Rule – Meeting Procedures, adopted on 25 July 2023, Council is required to report as soon as practicable to a Council Meeting a record of each Informal Meeting of Councillors held.

This report lists Informal Meetings of Councillors Records submitted since the matter was last reported to Council on 9 December 2025.

An Informal Meeting of Councillors Record was kept for the following meetings (Attachment  1):

1.     Youth Council Meeting held 1 December 2025;

2.     Councillor Briefing held 2 December 2025;

3.     Positive Ageing Advisory Committee Meeting held 5 December 2025;

4.     Council Meeting Pre-Meet held 9 December 2025;

5.     Recreation Trails Advisory Committee meeting held 10 December 2025;

6.     Inclusion and Access Advisory Committee Meeting held 12 December 2025;

7.     Councillor and Officer pre-meet regarding Budget Workshop held 27 January 2026;

8.     Youth Council Meeting held 2 February 2026;

9.     Councillor Briefing held 3 February 2026;

10.   Councillor workshop day 1 held 5 February 2026;

11.   Councillor workshop day 2 held 6 February 2026;

12.   Strategic Risk Workshop held 10 February 2026; and

13.   CEO Employment Matters Advisory Committee meeting held 10 February 2026.

Council Resolution

MOVED:           Cr Peter Perkins

SECONDED:    Cr Grant Brooker

That Council, in accordance with Item 20 of Council’s Governance Rule – Meeting Procedures, receives the Informal Meetings of Councillors Records (Attachment 1) for the meetings held.

CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY 

 


 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Council Meeting Minutes                             24 February 2026

13.   Notices of Motion

NOM.001/26     Vandalism of War Memorials

Cr Grant Brooker advised of his intention to move the following:

Council Resolution

MOVED:           Cr Grant Brooker

SECONDED:    Cr Kate McKay

That Council:

1.      Acknowledges and commends the immediate response of Council officers in cleaning and restoring the Eltham Cenotaph following the recent vandalism.

2.      Reaffirms Council’s strong condemnation of vandalism of war memorials, plaques and statues, reinforces Council’s commitment to ensuring that when vandalism occurs on these assets, they continue to be repaired and reinstated as quickly as possible.

3.      Reaffirms Council’s commitment to supporting Victoria Police, including through information‑sharing and cooperation, and notes that where offenders are identified and convicted, Council will pursue recovery of repair and reinstatement costs where appropriate.

CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY 

 

14.   Delegates' Reports  

Cr Kate McKay reported:

“I'd like to report on a great community event that myself and Mayor Joiner were delighted to attend. We attended Nillumbik’s inaugural Iftar, which is a celebration of breaking the fast during the month of Ramadan. This was proudly supported by a Nillumbik community grant and organised by Salamfest, and thank you to organisers Aisha and Amna.

We had a great night of community activities, a delicious meal, a call to prayer, and a panel discussion about what Ramadan means to people of Muslim faith. Fasting during Ramadan means no food or water during sunrise to sunset. It’s a time for reflection, resilience, and digging deep through your own discomfort to gain empathy for others during a difficult time.

We were pleased to receive a gift — a piece of art stencilled by a local artist. The art says ‘Salam Nillumbik’, which translates to ‘Blessed Nillumbik’. So I just wanted to say Ramadan Mubarak to our Muslim residents of Nillumbik, and thank you for having us.”


 

15.   Supplementary and urgent business

Nil

16.   Confidential reports

Nil

17.   Close of Meeting

 

The meeting closed at 8.25pm.

 

 

Confirmed:        _______________________________

                        Cr Naomi Joiner, Mayor