2 May, 2025
As the crisp Autumn air settles in over our region and we enjoy the last of our splendid autumnal colours, this month's Regional Ramble provides an insight into some issues and activities that have been occupying me as the Mayor this month - another busy time in our region.
What is front and centre? What are we championing on your behalf? Let’s get into it!
Draft Budget and Operational Plan
The draft integrated planning and reporting plans are now on public exhibition for community feedback
I encourage residents to have their say on our draft long term strategic documents. We’ve placed several draft plans on public exhibition, including our Delivery Program, Resourcing Strategy, Operational Plan and Budget, Revenue Policy, and Fees and Charges for the 2025–2026 financial year.
Each year, Council must adopt these documents by 30 June. NSW Councils are required to develop and report on a set of plans and strategies for establishing local priorities and linking this information to operational functions.
Following endorsement at our Ordinary Council Meeting on 23 April 2025, they are now available for community review online via Your Say Armidale from 24 April to 22 May 2025. I invite residents to share their feedback and help shape the future of Armidale.
Submissions can be sent to our General Manager via post (PO Box 75A, Armidale NSW 2350) or email (council@armidale.nsw.gov.au) before the deadline on 22 May 2025. Your input is invaluable in ensuring these plans reflect the needs of our community.
Latest round of Community Small Grants awarded
$52,000 allocated to deserving community groups in this round
I’m proud to support our local community through the latest round of our Community Grants Program. We’ve awarded funding to twenty incredible groups, from preschools and sports clubs to emergency services and arts organisations. In total, we allocated $52,000 in this round, selected from forty applications requesting a combined $157,785.
These grants are vital in strengthening social connections and addressing local needs, ensuring our community groups have the resources to continue their great work. Our assessment panel, made up of councillors and council officers, carefully reviewed each application and unanimously decided where the funding would be most impactful.
Grassroots organisations are the heart of our region, enriching our social and cultural fabric in so many ways. Even small grants make a big difference—whether its helping volunteers purchase equipment or supporting events that bring people together.
We offer these grants twice a year, and I’m pleased to share that we’ve awarded a total of $100,000 in community funding in the 2024–2025 financial year. It’s a powerful way to invest in our future and ensure our local groups continue to thrive. To find out who were this rounds' deserving recipients visit our community grants and support page.
Tour de Rocks brings it again!
Tour de Rocks mission is to engage and inspire communities to raise awareness and funds for cancer prevention
Team ARC had an incredible experience at the TDR, with a strong contingent representing our community. It was particularly special to have Cr Kay Endres, who serves as the president of the organisation, joining us on this journey. Her leadership and dedication added an extra layer of significance to the event, making it even more memorable for everyone involved.
A huge thank you goes out to our outstanding support crew, who worked tirelessly to ensure the team was comfortable and well cared for throughout the tour. Their efforts behind the scenes made all the difference, allowing participants to focus on the experience and enjoy every moment.
Looking ahead, we’re already excited for next year’s tour! With the momentum and enthusiasm generated this time around, there’s no doubt that the next event will be even bigger and better. The camaraderie, teamwork, and shared passion for the cause truly made this year’s TDR a standout experience. Here’s to another successful tour in the future!
Community Roundtable breathes life into new ideas
The roundtable format gives community members a platform to share their 'region building' ideas
Thanks to everyone who submitted their ideas and a special thanks to those who attended my community roundtable. It was a fantastic opportunity to meet some of our passionate community members looking to see their ideas make real change in our region.
On Tuesday, we hosted a community roundtable, a two-hour session designed to give community members a platform to share their 'region building' ideas that could be added to a community wish-list.
This event was open to those passionate about innovation, technology, and, most importantly, fostering growth in the right direction for the Armidale region.
The turnout was impressive, with many enthusiastic community members eager to contribute to our region's progress.
During the session, we discussed various ideas, including opportunities for small startups in the Armidale region, enhancing collaboration between UNE and ARC, promoting tourism in both Armidale and Guyra, and engaging youth.
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who submitted their ideas and a special thanks to those who attended the roundtable. It was a fantastic opportunity to connect with our passionate community members and explore ideas that could bring real change to our region.
Larvotto Resources invests in Hillgrove Mine's future
The Hillgrove Mines Hub was officially opened last month and is located in the Armidale Plaza
The Hillgrove Gold-Antimony Project is getting a new lease of life with mining company Larvotto Resources investing in the mine. This isn’t just another mine; Hillgrove is home to Australia’s largest known antimony resource, and it’s gaining global recognition. That means real opportunities for our local economy.
We’re talking about over 250 new jobs - across underground mining, open pit operations, processing, and construction. But it doesn’t stop there. Local businesses will benefit from ongoing demand for goods and services, and we’ll see upgrades to regional infrastructure, including a major investment in the Echidna Gully site, which will become a dedicated accommodation village. That helps relieve housing pressure and shows Larvotto Resources is here for the long haul.
Antimony is a critical mineral, essential for everything from batteries to flame retardants and even military use. With global supply shortages, having a local source puts Armidale in a strategically important position. All in all, this project strengthens our community, creates jobs, and helps build a more resilient local economy. It’s a great step forward for our region.
'Ask Us Anything' returns
Join us at the Goldfish Bowl in Jessie Street from 8am Tuesday 13 May
Come and join Councillor Rob Taber and I at the next 'Ask Us Anything' session held on Tuesday 13 May from 8am at the Goldfish Bowl in Jessie Street, Armidale.
If you have a pressing issue, or want to hear the latest from our region, catch up with us for a chat.
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.
