Projects, news and current events  |  27 October 2025

Creative Streets Festival kicks off with a spectacular night of art and energy

Opening night was epic!

The Creative Streets Festival opening night was unbelievable, our main street was absolutely buzzing with energy as the community came out in full force to celebrate creativity, culture, and connection. Thank you to everyone who made it such a memorable night!

Congratulations to UNE's newest graduates!

We were proud to celebrate alongside the UNE community during last week’s graduation ceremonies, a truly special milestone for students, families, and staff alike.

It was wonderful to see the city come alive with proud graduates, their loved ones, and visiting friends, all enjoying the festive atmosphere and the stunning spring weather Armidale has to offer. The sense of achievement and joy was palpable, and we’re so glad the celebrations could take place in such a beautiful setting.

Musical revue supporting dementia receives funds from ARC grants

The return of the much-loved pantomimes and revues to the Armidale musical calendar – The Revue 2025 – A Musical Time Machine, is a lively community production paying tribute to local theatre pioneer Pam Menzies.

The production received a recent $4,500 Armidale Regional Council community grant to support the fundraiser, continuing Pam’s tradition of involving public figures in the arts.

Rebates flow for rainwater tanks

Council is pleased to announce the launch of the Rainwater Tank Rebate Program, an initiative designed to promote sustainable water use and reduce reliance on mains water supply.

This program is not just about rebates, it’s about building resilience. As Mayor Sam Coupland recently stated, “Water security is a major focus for Council. With the increasing threat of future droughts and climate variability, we’re taking proactive steps to strengthen our community’s resilience. The expected growth from the New England Renewable Energy Zone (NEREZ) only adds urgency to our efforts to ensure long-term water sustainability.”

Water conservation remains a priority, even during wetter periods, because securing our water future requires consistent, year-round action. The Rainwater Tank Rebate Program is also one of the action items from the recently endorsed Regional Drought Resilience Plan, developed in collaboration with Uralla Shire Council (USC) and Meridian Urban. This plan outlines a long-term vision for drought preparedness and sustainable infrastructure across the region.

Armidale region welcomes new citizens

Last week, we proudly welcomed 49 new citizens into our Australian family!

Thank you to everyone who attended. It was a wonderful ceremony held under sunny skies in Armidale. 

Congratulations to New England artist James Rogers

Congratulations to New England artist James Rogers on being announced as recipient of the prestigious Aqualand Australia Sculpture Award for his sculpture 'Siren’s Song'

James has exhibited in Sculpture by the Sea since it began in 1997, and is delighted to have been recognised in this way.

We are proud to have one of James' sculptures permanently on display at Armidale Regional Airport!

Drop into the airport to see 'The Raft', a large-scale interactive public art work inspired by the natural landscape - and enjoy a treat from the The Alternate Root Airport Cafe while you are there.

Creative Streets pop-up brings after dinner delight to the heart of Armidale

Last week's Creative Streets pop up ‘After Dinner Delight’ continued the good vibes and creative spirit. Our community and university graduation visitors enjoyed a beautiful spring night casually wandering through our stunning malls, experiencing our local art and grabbing an after dinner delight. 

The Axemen lit up the Mall stage with their rock vibes and our local establishments were packed with happy patrons. 

As the Creative Streets festivities roll into their third week, we look forward to seeing our little Halloween friends next Friday night for some afternoon craft - 4-6pm in East Mall (recommended ages 2-10yrs). Bring your carved pumpkins for a chance to win a season pass to the pool.

Serrated Tussock - Now in season

Watch out for Serrated Tussock!

Have you spotted this weed? Serrated Tussock is currently in season and poses a significant threat to our local environment.

What to look for:

• Grows in upright tussocks up to 45 cm tall and 25 cm wide
• Changes colour with the seasons:
• Spring: Light green with brown leaf tips
• Late Spring/Early Summer: Purple tinge as seed heads emerge
• Summer: Remains green when other grasses turn brown
• Winter: Turns golden yellow after frost
• Leaves are very narrow, tightly rolled, upright, and stiff, with a whitish base (like shallots)
• Serrated edges can be felt when you run your fingers along the leaf

If you think you’ve seen Serrated Tussock, please contact our Council Biosecurity team by calling 1300 136 833.

Weed alert - Scotch Broom and Cape Broom

Be on the lookout for an invasive broom species currently flowering across the region.

Scotch Broom is now in bloom, identifiable by its bright yellow, pea-shaped flowers (approximately 2–2.5 cm in length). Hybrids exhibiting red-yellow variations have also been observed along local roadsides. This woody shrub typically grows between 1 to 2 metres, but can reach heights of up to 4 metres, and is toxic to humans and some animals.

Also flowering is Cape Broom, an evergreen shrub with smaller yellow flowers (8–12 mm). While visually similar to Scotch Broom, Cape Broom poses a particular risk to livestock, as it is toxic when consumed in large quantities.

Both species are considered highly invasive and present a significant threat to local ecosystems and agricultural productivity.

If you identify either species, please do not disturb the plants. Instead, report sightings to Council on 1300 136 833.

Your assistance is vital in helping protect our natural environment and agricultural lands.

Entries Now Open for the 2026 Autumn Festival Parade!

It’s that time of year again! We’re calling on schools, community groups, businesses, performers, and creative locals to be part of the 2026 Autumn Festival Parade.

Whether you’ve got a float idea, a marching band, a dance crew, or just a great costume, we want you in the parade. It’s a fantastic way to celebrate our community, showcase local talent, and bring colour and energy to the streets of Armidale

Council Meetings

The next scheduled meeting is Wednesday 26 November 2025 at 4pm.

All meetings will be held at 4pm in the Armidale Council Chambers unless stated otherwise. The public are welcome to watch the live streaming over YouTube, via the link included below, or attend in person.

The meetings are conducted under the Armidale Regional Council Code of Meeting Practice which can be found on the Council’s Policy page.

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