7 November, 2025

Regional Ramble provides an insight into what has been occupying me as the Mayor. What is my focus? What are we championing on your behalf? Let’s get into it!

Preserving nature, improving access: Dangars Gorge upgrade

Dangars Gorge is one of the most spectacular natural landmarks in our region, a place where locals and visitors alike come to experience the breathtaking beauty of Oxley Wild Rivers National Park. Today, I’m proud to share exciting news: a $1 million upgrade is underway by the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service to improve visitor facilities and ensure this iconic destination remains safe, accessible, and enjoyable for generations to come.

The centrepiece of this upgrade is the construction of a new pedestrian bridge, designed to withstand flooding and provide safer access to Dangars Falls and Mihi Falls. The current bridge, which has been regularly inundated during high-flow events, will be replaced with a more resilient structure. This means visitors will soon be able to explore the gorge even during periods of higher water flow and enjoy improved opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife observation along Salisbury Waters.

These improvements are supported by the NSW and Australian Government’s Infrastructure Betterment Fund, which helps repair and rebuild public assets impacted by natural disasters since 2019.

To complete these works safely, the entire Dangars Gorge precinct, including access to view Dangars Falls, will be closed until Easter 2026. While I understand this extended closure may be disappointing, it is necessary to deliver a safer, more sustainable experience for all visitors.

This investment is about more than infrastructure; it’s about preserving the natural beauty of Dangars Gorge while making it safer and more accessible for everyone. When the works are complete, visitors will enjoy improved facilities and a richer experience in one of our region’s most treasured landscapes.

Thank you for your patience and understanding as we work together to build something truly special for our community and visitors.

For more information and inspiration, visit the website below.

Community collaboration key at Kookaburra Crest

I recently visited the newly upgraded Kookaburra Crest Mountain Bike Park for their official opening, and I’ve got to say, the kids were going absolutely nuts. It’s only been open a few weeks, but the energy up there is incredible. The track was in serious need of refurbishment, and thanks to the efforts of James Harris, President of the New England Mountain Biking Club, and a well-known local community member Kelso, it’s now undergone a much needed redevelopment.

James told me the whole thing started with a classic Armidale moment - Kelso saying, “I know a bloke who knows a bloke…” That bloke turned out to be a former Australian motocross champion who now builds trails professionally. With some quick thinking, community support, and a few local businesses chipping in, they pulled together the funds and expertise to make it happen.

This upgrade couldn’t have come at a better time. After concerns around the homemade track at Railway Parade, we needed a safe, exciting alternative, and this is it. We were able to cut through some red tape, throw in some support, and Kelso’s key contacts delivered something fantastic.

Now, every Monday during Term 4, kids are up there racing and having fun. It’s a brilliant example of community collaboration in action.

Celebrating UNE's October Graduates

The October graduation ceremonies at the University of New England marked a proud moment for our region, with over 400 students crossing the stage to receive their degrees.

These graduates represent the future of our community, bringing fresh energy, knowledge, and ambition. Special congratulations go to Alumni Award recipients James Rowe, Donald Page, Dunya Alruhaimi, and Dianna Baker, whose achievements and contributions continue to inspire.

I commend all graduates on their hard work and dedication, and look forward to seeing the positive impact they will make in their chosen fields and beyond.

Armidale's creative pulse powers local economy

The Creative Streets Festival has stamped Armidale firmly on the map as a thriving hub for the creative arts. Over three vibrant weeks, our city was transformed into a living gallery, showcasing the incredible talent and imagination of local and visiting artists. Opening night alone drew thousands of people into the heart of Armidale, creating an electric atmosphere that set the tone for the entire festival.

Beyond the artistic celebration, the festival delivered a major economic boost to Armidale’s local economy. Thousands of visitors and residents filled the streets, bringing increased trade to local businesses. Pubs, restaurants, and cafés were invited to extend their service onto the street, creating a vibrant, open-air atmosphere that encouraged people to linger, dine, and connect. This initiative not only supported hospitality venues but also added to the immersive festival experience. The surge in foot traffic and tourism invigorated the CBD, demonstrating the powerful synergy between arts and economic vitality.

This festival has not only enriched our cultural identity but also strengthened our reputation as a destination for creativity and innovation. I look forward to seeing Creative Streets grow even bigger in years to come.

Building resilient futures for our young people and community

How do place, opportunity and belonging shape youth outcomes in regional Australia? What does crime prevention that works look like?

These are some of the questions we considered at last week’s Royal Society of NSW event at NOVA, Armidale - ‘Building Resilient Futures: Understanding youth through the lens of place, risk and prevention’.

Dr Kyle Mulrooney, Co-director of the Centre for Rural Criminology University of new England (UNE) shared his insights as keynote speaker at the event which gathered people from across our community, including UNE researchers, community members, and support agency representatives - those working ‘on the ground’ with young people.

Kyle’s presentation and the panel discussion generated valuable conversations and suggested strategies for us all to be collaborating to support young people while building a community where we all feel safe.

I am looking forward to next steps working alongside UNE, service providers, and with council's community services team!

Regions must not be left behind in energy transition 

Have you heard about the Regional Energy Accord? It’s a national effort drawing on regional knowledge to shape how the energy transition unfolds. A partnership between regional communities, the energy sector and government, the Accord is being co-designed - starting with listening. As part of this process, The Energy Charter is hosting Regional Energy Accord Roundtables across New South Wales (NSW).

Our region was chosen as a Renewable Energy Zone for many reasons including available natural energy resources and location. It's still in early stages but according to the NSW Government, the New England Renewable Energy Zone (NEREZ) is expected to deliver up to $24 billion in private sector investment, and support around 8000 jobs.

While there are economic, environmental and social opportunities for us, we in regional Australia carry the load of the energy transition, hosting infrastructure and navigating impacts.

I continue to work closely with government, industry and our community to ensure that our region’s interests remain central to all conversations about the NEREZ - to ensure that projects don’t just happen to us, but with us.

So, alongside others, I will be advocating for our community at the Regional Energy Accord roundtables. Watch this space to learn what a regional accord can look like!

Ask us anything! Next catchup

I have been loving the chance to catch up with people at our regular 'Ask us anything' sessions. The scheduled catchup opportunities at cafes around the region, are just one way to connect and stay informed.

Cr Rob Taber and I will be at:

• Era, Armidale 
• 8:00am – 9:30am, Wednesday 19 November 2025

No need to book - just drop in, grab a cuppa, and say hello. These sessions are all about keeping things open and easy, so feel free to bring whatever’s on your mind.
We’re holding these chats at different cafes around the region, so if you can’t make this one, keep an eye out for the next. Looking forward to seeing you there!

Welcoming our newest citizens

In October, we proudly welcomed 49 new citizens into our Australian family during a wonderful citizenship ceremony held here in Armidale. These individuals, from diverse backgrounds and cultures, have chosen to make Australia, and our region, their home.

It was an honour to witness their commitment to our shared values of freedom, democracy, and mutual respect. Citizenship is more than a legal status; it’s a celebration of belonging, contribution, and community. Each new citizen brings unique experiences and perspectives that enrich our society and strengthen our future.

When I became Mayor, I never expected presiding over citizenship ceremonies to be part of the role, but it’s quickly become one of the most rewarding and joyful experiences.

On behalf of the community, I extend a warm congratulations and welcome. May your journey as Australians be filled with opportunity, connection, and pride. We are stronger together, and your presence makes our region even more vibrant and inclusive.

Farewell to Corinne Arter

After more than 20 years of dedicated service, Corinne Arter is retiring from the New England Conservatorium of Music. As a founding leader since 2004, Corinne helped shape NECOM into the vibrant, community-focused institution it is today. Her passion and vision have enriched our region, and we thank her sincerely for her extraordinary contribution.

NECOM’s strong partnership with Armidale Regional Council has been vital to the success of many local events, with their support and musical talent elevating countless community celebrations.

As we farewell Corinne, we also warmly welcome Andrew French-Northam as NECOM’s new CEO. We look forward to his leadership and the next exciting chapter in NECOM’s journey.

What a success The Revue was!

What a triumph for Armidale! The Revue 2025 – A Musical Time Machine was a joyful celebration of community spirit, creativity, and heartfelt tribute. Congratulations to the entire cast and crew, and all the volunteers who brought this production to life in honour of Pam Menzies.

Pam’s legacy continues to inspire, and it was a privilege to be part of a show that not only entertained but raised vital funds for Dementia Australia. The energy in the Armidale Town Hall was electric, and the laughter unforgettable. I was proud to play small cameo in the show.

This is exactly the kind of event our Community Small Grants Program is proud to support. Thank you to everyone who made it such a memorable success.

You are receiving this e-newsletter from Armidale Regional Council as you have interacted with council using this email address. The purpose of this monthly e-newsletter is to keep you informed of council news and events from the Mayor's desk, which we hope you will find informative.