Port Macquarie-Hastings Council
Port Macquarie-Hastings Council engaged Resource Hub to conduct a gatehouse and operational process analysis following the appointment of a new Waste Manager. The Council was using outdated software and informal processes that limited operational efficiency and reporting capability. Through onsite assessment and a data governance review, our team identified opportunities to mature their systems, streamline workflows, and upskill staff. The final report was well received, and the Council has already begun scoping implementation of several key recommendations.
The whole process was incredibly valuable. The onsite team were professional and thorough, and the final report gave us a clear picture of where we stand and what’s next. It’s already shaping the changes we’re making.
Michael Davis, Waste Manager, Port Macquarie-Hastings Council
Challenge
With a new Waste Manager stepping into the role, Port Macquarie-Hastings Council needed a clear understanding of current gatehouse operations and supporting systems. The Council was relying on outdated and insufficient software — not fit for the complexity of modern waste operations nor the evolving regulatory reporting demands. There was limited formalisation in process documentation and a lack of structure in data governance.
What We Did
Resource Hub deployed its standard operational analysis methodology, focused on:
- Onsite assessment of the gatehouse facility and workflows.
- Data governance review to evaluate reporting structures and software capability.
- Our team, led by Oscar and Kate, conducted a thorough, hands-on evaluation and engaged directly with frontline staff and management to map out operational pain points and system bottlenecks.
- The audit uncovered opportunities for improvement across all focus areas. Importantly, these findings weren’t indications of non-compliance or mismanagement — rather, they highlighted a clear readiness to mature and modernise operations. Key opportunities included:
- Upgrading to fit-for-purpose transactional software to streamline data capture and reporting.
- Formalising gatehouse processes to ensure consistency and reduce operational risk.
- Targeted training to upskill staff and increase system confidence.
Outcomes
Oscar and Kate hosted a wrap-up meeting with the Waste Manager, Michael Davis, who expressed strong appreciation for the clarity and depth of the report. He described it as “very informative” and had already requested quotes to move forward on several of Resource Hub’s key recommendations.
Conclusion
The Council now has a clear roadmap for operational improvement, software transition, and workforce upskilling — positioning them to meet the demands of a growing region with confidence and compliance.