Projects, news and current events  |  12 January 2026

Make a splash this Australia Day

Armidale Regional Council is Council is hosting a fun, family-friendly 'Beach Party' at Dumaresq Dam at 12noon, Monday 26 January following the Citizenship Ceremony and Australia Day Awards presentation which commence at 10.30am.

What’s on?

• Citizenship Ceremony and Australia Day Awards from 10:30am
• Beach Party fun kicks off at 12 noon
• Free sausage sizzle & ice creams (while they last!)
• Kayak & rowing demos
• Slip & slides + kids’ games
• Lifeguards on duty
• Thong throwing competition

Free bus service from Armidale Visitor Information Centre (VIC):

• 9:30am leaves VIC
• 9.35am pickup Monckton Pool
• 9.40am Girraween Shops bus stop then on to Dumaresq Dam
• 12noon return from Dumaresq Dam via stops at Girraween and Monckton Pool
• 12:30pm leaves VIC 
• 12.35pm Monckton Pool
• 12.40pm Girraween Shops bus stop to the Dam
• 4:00pm Last trip back to Armidale via above stops

If you need access assistance to get to this event, call ARC Customer Service on 1300 136 833.

Pack your sunscreen, bring your family, pack a picnic and celebrate Aussie style at the Dam!

Indigenous earth artist Aunty Sharon Cutmore at celebrations

Anaiwan woman and artist Aunty Sharon Cutmore will create a stunning earth artwork as part of Armidale Regional Council’s Australia Day 2026 celebrations at the Dumaresq Dam Recreation Area.

Aunty Sharon’s work is renowned for its deep connection to Country, using natural earth and sand materials to tell stories that reflect culture, identity, and the environment.

Her art will form a central part of council’s 2026 Australia Day activities, offering visitors a unique opportunity to experience creativity grounded in tradition and respect for the land.

Road upgrades underway in Guyra

Preliminary works commenced this week on the reconstruction of Ryanda Street in Guyra.

The $1.9 million Ryanda Street Road Reconstruction and Stormwater Drainage Project will include upgrades to footpaths, improved pedestrian crossings, and enhanced connectivity between key areas of the town.

works include: 

• Installation of piped stormwater drainage
• Stormwater drainage improvements
• Complete reconstruction of Ryanda between Ollera and Tenterden Streets
• Creation of 28 angled parking spaces along Ryanda Street next to the sports field
• A new shared path from Dutton Parade to Ollera Street. This will ultimately connect to the shared path in front of Guyra Central School and supports Council’s Active Transport Strategy.

Temporary traffic changes, including one‑lane access and short‑term property access interruptions, will be required to complete the works safely. 

Summit features local stories

The story of Kelly's Transport is more than trucks and freight – it’s about innovation, resilience, and community. From humble beginnings in 1948, when Edgar and Sam Kelly built their first stock float, to a modern fleet serving the New England region, Kellys Transport has been keeping the wheels turning for more than 70 years.

Today, the business is thriving – and recent upgrades to Rockvale Road by Armidale Regional Council have made a big difference. Safer, stronger roads mean less wear and tear on trucks, improved conditions for drivers, and better outcomes for the whole community.

The full story is in the latest edition of Summit Magazine. Find a copy at key locations through the region or read online!

Great Summer Book Binge

Are you making time for summer reading? The Great Summer Book Binge aims to encourage everyone to pick up a book and read - to start (or restart!) your love of reading:

• 15 December to 31 January

Borrow and read books from the library collections. For every five titles you read, go in the draw to win a prize!

Sign up to be a new library member during the challenge and receive a bonus entry.

Contact the Libraries' team for more:

• phone 6770 3636, or email library@armidale.nsw.gov.au 

Summer School Holiday Activity Program 2026 underway

The Armidale and Guyra Libraries' summer school holiday program is underway! Is a young person in your world keen for some extra fun and learning these school holidays?

Something to Talk About |
Twilight at the Pool

Enjoy time at the pool this February! Twilight at the Pool will be held in Armidale and Guyra during February:

Armidale: Come to the Monckton Aquatic Centre every Friday evening during February for a family-friendly pool experience! (4-5pm younger kids; 5-7pm all ages)
MORE HERE

Guyra: Spend your Sunday afternoons this February at the Guyra pool for 'twilight at the pool'. It's a great way to unwind and have fun! (4-7pm all ages)
MORE HERE

Stall and float applications are open for the 2026 Autumn Festival!

Stall and float applications are now open for the 2026 Autumn Festival!

Date: Saturday, 21 March 2026
Location: Civic Park, Armidale

We’re currently busy planning an exciting lineup of Autumn-themed activities for all ages! Don’t miss out, apply now to secure your spot!

Council Meetings

The next scheduled meeting is Wednesday 18 February 2026 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.