Surf Coast Shire Council's 2022-23 annual report highlights the achievements across another big year and describes a financially sound position.
Council noted the 2022-23 annual report at its October meeting, which outlined Council's performance for the year against its four-year plan and annual budget.
Deputy Mayor Mike Bodsworth said the report shows the community is at the heart of everything we do with a focus on more community-led action.
"The community took the reins on projects that are so special to them. The Bob Pettitt Bike Park in Jan Juc opening in March is a perfect example. An innovative partnership between community and Council we hope to see more of," Cr Bodsworth said.
"In 2022-23 we saw the delivery and progression of key community projects including Torquay Scouts Facility, the Anglesea Netball Pavilion redevelopment and the Stribling Reserve Pavilions, just to name a few."
The Deputy Mayor said as part of Council's plan for a healthy, connected community, the community grants program supported 55 projects in 2022-23.
Council's deep commitment to Reconciliation is captured through dedicated events, and by working closely with Traditional Owners on projects and education programs.
"Council was a proud supporter of the deeply moving Pilk Purriyn event on 26 January when Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation hosted dawn truth-telling at Cosy Corner."
"Pilk Purriyn means sunrise in the language of the Wadawurrung People and the 2,000 people present symbolised a new era of understanding and a journey towards reconciliation."
Coastal character workshops held in 2022-23 were an opportunity for the community to share their aspirations for their townships' character.
"We know it's important that each township retains its unique character. We heard this at three coastal character workshops, where community members shared what makes their town special."
Kerbside waste diversion from landfill was an impressive 73% as residents continue to embrace the four-bin system.
"Protecting the natural environment is a priority for our community, that is why as an organisation we have maintained a carbon neutral corporate status," Cr Bodsworth said.
"We installed 316kW of solar and 64kWh of battery storage last year, bringing us to a total 784kW of solar and 82kWh of battery storage across Council facilities."
As the affordable accommodation crisis continues, Council is progressing a Tiny Houses on Wheels trial and facilitating social and affordable housing at Fraser Drive in Aireys Inlet in partnership with the community and Housing Choices Australia.
"We also attracted state government funding to develop the Anglesea Community and Health Hub Precinct Plan."
Council closed 2022-23 in a positive financial position, recording a surplus of $1.2 million while delivering all the services and projects important to the community.
"This will be important in future years as the long-term financial plan shows deficit results from 2024-25 for several years before moving back into surplus," the Deputy Mayor said.
"The surplus will help us support and deliver for the community whilst maintaining Council's financial sustainability in the years ahead."
View the 2022-23 annual report at surfcoast.vic.gov.au.
