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Read more about the article Calls for corrections to the CISP survey
Calls for corrections to the CISP survey

The VRRA has written to Council to highlight our concerns about a number of errors and irregularities in the Community Infrastructure Strategic Plan survey currently on exhibition. We have requested an urgent pause to the survey process so these issues can be addressed. While we await Council’s response, we encourage all Vincentia residents to take part in the survey, which closes on 20 May 2026. Council’s draft recommendations for Vincentia range from routine maintenance and upgrades to changes in the provision of community infrastructure and feasibility studies that could affect the future of community land. Strong community participation will help protect the…

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Read more about the article Development needs Community Oversight
Development needs Community Oversight

Thank you to everyone in the Vincentia community who has shown interest in the Barnett Street dwelling Development ApplicationIt’s encouraging to see residents engage with an issue that, while not on every doorstep, has clear implications for the the unique and distinctive qualities and future of our whole town. Your responses have helped raise awareness about a concerning DA for community members.  One that the VRRA has formally commented on as part of the assessment process.As the local association representing Vincentia’s ratepayers and residents, our role is to support the community in navigating what happens in our streets, neighbourhoods and…

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Read more about the article Place based Engagement Model Review
Place based Engagement Model Review

About Community Consultative Bodies (CCBs)Community Consultative Bodies (CCBs) were established in Shoalhaven in 1991 to provide a structured way for local communities to share information, discuss issues and present collective views to Council.CCBs are resident‑led groups that represent defined geographic areas. Over time, they have helped communicate local issues, spread Council information and support discussion within their communities.Why Council is reviewing the CCB model and place-based engagement nowWhile the CCB model has played an important role, Council is reviewing it to ensure community engagement remains inclusive, effective and safe into the future.Over time, legal uncertainty has emerged about the status of these bodies—specifically whether they are Council committees, or independent community groups.This lack of clarity creates legal…

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Community Consultation or Community Control?

Shoalhaven City Council meet for its last Ordinary Meeting of 2025 on Tuesday 16 December 2025. One of the first items listed was - Agenda Item: CEO CL25.418 Proposal to Reform Community Consultative Bodies (CCB) Model of Engagement.  Your Committee firmly believes this is not genuine reform, but a process that devalues and ultimately tries to dismantle the Community Consultative Body (CCB) model.We strongly reject the claim that any real community consultation has occurred.  What happened at the CCB Executive meeting on 1 December 2025  was an announcement, not a discussion. Members were simply told that Council intended to “reform” the…

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