Open tendering is a preferred option rather than the “selective tendering” method by which invitations to tender for a particular proposed contract are made following a public advertisement asking for expressions of interest.

Oberon Council currently has an active annual plant contractor hire tender for engagement of external plant hire services that council may require to engage for works on an annual basis, this tender is set to expire on June 30, 2018.

The annual plant hire allows council staff to engage external services primarily for road-related works that require additional resourcing to that of council internal plant.

This tender clearly outlines the expectations and obligations for all interested parties thinking of participating in this tender. 

Once tender submissions are received, council staff will evaluate and compile a list of comprehensive external resources that may be engaged during this period to assist council with its projects.

At the conclusion of the tender period a report will be brought back to the June 2018 council meeting with a recommendation for the next 12-month period commencing July 1, 2018 to June 30, 2019.

The tender period commenced on Monday, April 23 for the minimum required 21-day advertisement period, closing on Wednesday, May 16 at 2pm.

Tendering will be undertaken strictly in accordance with tendering regulations and advertised to include and encourage all local businesses to apply.

All tenders received will be assessed for conformity and critiqued by Technical Services Staff. A further report with recommendations will be brought before the June ordinary meeting of council for its determination.

Councillor Ian Doney said that, where possible, council needed to keep these projects “in house” to maintain staff skills.