Balranald Shire Council May 2025 Meeting Summary

Council approved significant funding of $281,599 for WP Proprietary Limited to conduct a comprehensive flood investigation covering both Balranald and Euston townships.

The study will examine past flood events that have impacted the area, though specific details remain confidential as discussions were held in closed session.

The council's financial position has deteriorated significantly:

What started as a balanced budget for 2024/25 has become a projected $378,000 deficit

This is up from the $127,000 deficit reported in December

The quarterly budget review period ended March 31, 2025

Bidgee Haven Hostel reduced wage costs by $140,000 over two months by switching from expensive agency nurses to permanent staff.

Council received final $1.2 million payment from over $4 million in disaster recovery funding for previous floods.

Total cash and investments: $28,029,548 as of April 30, earning 4.89 per cent interest.

Outstanding debtors increased to $389,388 (though $258,349 is expected from grant-funded debtors).

Euston Netball Club Upgrade: 85 per cent complete with lighting installed for both Balranald and Euston courts.

Discovery Centre Upgrade: 95 per cent complete, awaiting floor and frame certification.

Euston Recreation Reserve: 75 per cent complete with finished change room.s

Design planning and cost estimates progressing for extension and refurbishment.

Applied for additional $3 million grant for staff accommodation and bathroom upgrades.

Total potential future works could reach $9 million.

Regional road maintenance continues on MR67 Balranald Ivanhoe Road.

McCabe Street temporarily closed for Balranald Mineral Sands Mine project upgrades.

Park and garden maintenance following recent rainfall.

Pest control efforts targeting cacti and box thorn.

Cochineal beetles introduced in Euston to combat weeds.

Balranald Caravan Park lawn seeding and irrigation repairs progressing well.

Council will continue operating with own staff until December 31, 2025.

Seeking tenders for contract/lease arrangements from January 2026.

Workshop planned to discuss master plan and potential upgrades.

Water Fluoridation Workshop: Scheduled for 3:30 PM, Tuesday June 10, following community requests for review.

June Council Meeting: Date will be changed due to Mayor and Interim General Manager attending National General Assembly of Local Government in Canberra (June 24-27).

Walking and cycling plans for Balranald and Euston under Get NSW Active program.

Road upgrades for Oxley Road and Morris Road under Disaster Ready Fund.

Endorsed updated designs for Balranald NRMA EV Charging Station (removed pull-through bay due to costs).