News 2020

$2.3 million funding boost for hydrotherapy pool complex - Armidale Regional Council will receive a $2.316 million funding boost from the NSW Government to help construct a new hydrotherapy pool and regional health complex, Federal Member for New England, Barnaby Joyce, announced today.
$5m redevelopment of Armidale and Guyra Livestock Selling Facilities - The Armidale region is set to become a centre of excellence in the management and sale of livestock with today’s announcement of $5 million funding towards the significant redevelopment of the Armidale and Guyra Livestock Selling Facilities.
3 month extension to administration - Minster for Local Government Shelley Hancock today announced a three month extension.
A day in her resourceful life - What was it like for women in the late 19th century? A new exhibition at the Armidale Folk Museum depicts daily life for a woman of that time using objects from the museum’s collection dating from the 1880s.
Accessibility group seeks passionate advocates - Residents with experience and a passion for inclusive and accessible communities are invited to nominate for a new Council advisory group.
Adopted planning statement sets clear vision - A clear vision for land use planning in the Armidale Region over the next 20 years will be provided by a Local Strategic Planning Statement (LSPS) adopted last week. The strategy identifies immediate, short-term and long-term planning actions to meet community needs and protect the region’s characteristics.
Agribusiness boost from new Bridge - An important agribusiness precinct in the Armidale region has been boosted by a new bridge officially opened on Castledoyle Road today.
Airline lifeline for Armidale region - Council is praising Federal Government support of a basic air service to the Armidale region, following the announcement it would underwrite the cost of airlines operating a “minimum domestic network servicing the most critical metropolitan and regional routes”.
Airport Business Park a key pillar of region’s economic stimulus - The sky above the Armidale region might be a little quieter at the moment but that hasn’t stopped construction at the Armidale Regional Airport precinct soaring ahead with two multi-million dollar projects well underway.
Airport display showcases UNE attractions - A new display at Armidale Regional Airport aims to promote awareness of some of the opportunities available for travellers to visit UNE.
Annual Christmas celebrations take a twist - Armidale’s Christmas in the Mall celebration is expanding to three evenings of live music, spectacular new lights and extra shopping opportunities this year.
Annual road resealing program underway - Council's annual road reseal maintenance program commences from tomorrow across the Armidale region.
App gives easier access to Council services - Many Council services and updates are now even easier to access thanks to additions and improvements to the Council online app.
Armidale Airside Business Park is open - It’s been more than a decade in the making, and now the Armidale Airside Business Park is officially ready for take-off.
Armidale Autumn Festival returns in April - Armidale’s annual Autumn Festival celebration is returning on Saturday 4 April 2020, transforming the city’s centre into a hub of entertainment and tourist attractions.
Armidale region playgrounds to reopen - Outdoor playgrounds, gym equipment and barbeque facilities will reopen across the Armidale region this Friday, following an announcement from the NSW Government to ease COVID-19 restrictions.
Armidale region plays critical role during bushfire season - The Armidale region supplied three and half million litres of water for aerial fire fighting efforts through north eastern NSW during the recent bushfire emergency.
Armidale region shares in $2.7m drought stimulus funding - $2.7 million cash injection for three local councils, aimed at supporting projects which will stimulate their drought-affected economies.
Armidale Regional Council CEO Susan Law announces resignation - Armidale Regional Council CEO Susan Law has today tendered her resignation effective from 30 July 2020.
Asbestos lifeline for Walcha bushfire victims - Walcha district residents impacted by last year’s bushfires will receive a helping hand from their Armidale region neighbours, with the Armidale Waste Management Facility set to receive asbestos and other fire related debris from damaged homes.
Auction of Council owned items - An auction of Council owned items will occur this Sunday 29 November at the Exhibition Centre in Canambe Street.
Autumn Festival & Twilight Markets cancelled - Events cancelled due to compulsory bans on gatherings of over 500 people.
Aviation precinct declared ‘open for business’ - Armidale Regional Airport’s Shand Drive aviation precinct has been declared ‘open for business’, its newly completed road upgrade another example of Council and business investment forging ahead despite the Coronavirus pandemic.
Bore water supply review finds Council complied with obligations - An independent review has found Council’s provision of water to tomato producer Costa Group, from a bore in Izzeard Park, was in accordance with legislation and regulations.
Business case inspires increased rail trail support - Council has stepped up its support for a rail trail between Armidale and Glen Innes - and has delegated authority to its General Manager to investigate possible funding – after receiving a more detailed business case for the project.
Business leaders unite to tackle effects of Covid-19 on local businesses - A meeting of business leaders, Chamber of Commerce, councillors and council staff via video link was convened today. The meeting was held to respond to the growing hurt felt by local businesses due to the rapid control of Covid-19.
CCTV switched on at playground - Security camera surveillance in the Armidale central business district has been extended to the new Curtis Park playground, with a new CCTV camera now operational.
China shipment a triumph for recycling system - A 35-tonne shipment of recycled plastics, destined for China, is another feather in the cap for the Armidale region’s distinctive recycling program.
Citizens group to identify climate change actions - Local actions to address climate change will be identified by a new working group being formed by Council.
Community Heritage Fund applications now open - Owners of properties listed as heritage items in Council’s Local Environmental Plan 2012 (LEP) can apply for a grant through a Community Heritage Fund established by Council and funded through the NSW Heritage Office.
Community invited to assist with Council General Manager recruitment - Armidale Regional Council Interim Administrator Viv May is inviting the community to become involved in the recruitment of the next Council General Manager.
Community spirit rises with water levels as Malpas Dam hits 50 percent - Community spirit rises with water levels as Malpas Dam hits 50 percent
Community survey for learning centre design - Community members are being invited to provide their input to the designs of a new Guyra Early Childhood Learning Centre, with a public survey launched today.
Community survey for playground equipment - A survey launched this week is asking community members in the Armidale region to indicate their preferences for additional play equipment at the new Curtis Park Playground.
Community webinar on Guyra groundwater network - A public webinar being held this month will give community members the latest information about the Ground Water Supply Network being developed in the Guyra district.
Comprehensive engagement planned for Draft Local Strategic Planning Statement - The Draft Local Strategic Planning Statement (LSPS) will be on Public Exhibition for a minimum of 28 days, commencing 31 August 2020.
Construction of Curtis Park Playground underway - Construction of the new Curtis Park playground will get underway today, with Council’s updated designs to include additional play equipment in response to community feedback.
Council acquires Crown Land for community use and protection of local wildlife - Springhill Lane will remain in the hands of the community and protection of endangered flora and fauna will be strengthened, following the transfer of Crown Land to Armidale Regional Council.
Council announces appointment of General Manager to commence in January - Following an extensive recruitment process Council has appointed James Roncon to the position of General Manager on a five year performance based contract.
Council celebrates new Ben Lomond RFS shed - Ben Lomond’s Rural Fire Service brigade has been boosted by the construction of a larger shed which was officially opened last Saturday.
Council celebrates new Regional NSW office announcement - A NSW Government decision to establish a new Department of Regional NSW office in Armidale has been welcomed by Council’s Chief Executive Officer, Susan Law, as another very welcome boost to the region.
Council keeps services operating - Council is getting on with business to provide services and infrastructure for the community, while taking steps to protect its staff and residents from COVID-19 crisis.
Council meetings resume in online format - Technology and democracy will be even more closely entwined when Armidale Regional Council meetings resume next week, with the monthly meetings to be held online.
Council seeks views on Special Rate Variation - Armidale Regional Council has commenced community consultation on three options for a Special Rate Variation (SRV) for consideration by the community from Monday 2 November until Thursday 10 December 2020.
Council showcases services during Local Government Week - It’s Local Government Week 2020, and Armidale Regional Council is using the event to highlight the broad range of services it offers the Armidale region, including some surprising and little-known services.
Council supports REX decision to suspend flights - Today’s announcement by REX Airlines that it is suspending flights to Armidale is regrettable but entirely understandable given the impacts of the COVIC-19 Corona virus, Armidale Regional Council Mayor Simon Murray said.
Council takes cautious approach to easing of water restrictions to level 3 - Steady run-off into the Armidale region’s water supply and a 65 percent chance of above average rainfall during spring has prompted Armidale Regional Council to ease water restrictions to level 3 from 1 September 2020.
Council takes control of feral cats - A significant rise in the population of feral cats and a spike of complaints in the Guyra district has prompted Council to take action and control the increasing numbers, by implementing its feral and stray cat trapping program.
Council welcomes disaster funding - Kempsey Road is set to benefit from today’s joint government announcement of natural disaster funding for areas affected by the October storms.
Council welcomes State funding to assist with cost of exploratory groundwater drilling - To assist with Council’s groundwater exploratory drilling member for Northern Tablelands Adam Marshall has announced funding of $500,000 from the NSW Government. Although this does not cover the full cost to Council of the exploratory drilling any funding support from the State Government is very welcome and eases the financial burden on our community.
Council welcomes State funding towards Dumaresq Dam wall remediation - The future of Dumaresq Dam and the safety of people downstream are now secure with funding from the NSW Government towards the remediation of the dam wall.
Council’s response to Coronavirus - On advice from State and Federal Governments Armidale Regional Council is implementing a number of social distancing policies and temporary public facility closures to ensure the safety of our community and to Council staff.
COVID competition unleashes great creativity - Faceless youth, lost souls and tech-wise canines were all featured in the winning entries for Armidale Regional Library’s a Live it. Create it. Share it competition, inviting local youth to share their experiences about COVID-19.
Cycleway section identified for solar lighting - A location has been identified for new solar lighting along the Armidale Cycleway and tenders for its construction will be called this week.
Deck installation for Shingle Hut Creek Bridge - The new Shingle Hut Creek Bridge will really take shape this Monday, with the prefabricated deck beams to be put in place. There will be some delays for traffic while construction contractors are installing the beams on Monday morning, starting at 7am.
Draft 2020/21 Budget and Operational Plan on exhibition from tomorrow - A resilient Budget designed to counter the triple body blows of drought, bushfires and COVID-19 will go on display when Council puts its 2020/21 Budget and Operational Plan on public exhibition from tomorrow Friday 19 June.
Draft Creeklands Masterplan on Public Exhibition - A draft masterplan for the Armidale Creeklands developed in 2018 is now available for community input on Council’s yoursay.armidale.nsw.gov.au online engagement hub.
Draft policy seeks consistency on stock grids - Community feedback is invited on a new draft policy for stock grids and gates on Armidale Regional Council public roads.
Driver Reviver returns to Armidale visitors centre - Armidale’s Visitor Information Centre (VIC) will again host a Driver Reviver station during the Christmas - New Year break, with the local service shaping up to be a pioneer for the state-wide Driver Reviver program.
Drought relief brings affordable family fun - Families can enjoy plenty of affordable family entertainment in Guyra this month, thanks to a State Government grant secured by Council.
Dumaresq Dam recreation facilities redevelopment plan on display - A plan to upgrade recreational facilities at Dumaresq Dam is now on public exhibition.
Early Childhood Learning Centre site endorsed - A new purpose-built and larger Guyra Early Childhood Learning Centre (ECLC) moved a step closer this week, when the September Ordinary Council Meeting approved the site for the facility.
Eased restrictions for greater library access - Opening hours for Armidale Regional Libraries will be changing from this Monday, with a partial easing of COVID-19 restrictions.
Elected Mayor promises new era for Council - Armidale Regional Council is entering a new era of accountable and financially responsible leadership, with a focus on encouraging investment in the region, Mayor Ian Tiley declared after being elected to the role yesterday.
Energy and Environment Minister to join webinar - NSW Minister for Energy and Environment Matthew Kean will be guest speaker during a Council webinar on Waste Management, alongside Council’s Director – Businesses, Scot MacDonald, and Manager - Utilities Shane Anderson.
EOIs sought for stabilisation works for Dumaresq Dam - Council will now proceed to tender with previously selected contractors for the stabilisation of the Dumaresq Dam wall and associated works.
Experienced Local Government leader announced as Acting General Manager - The former General Manager of Sutherland Council and Administrator for Georges River Council John Rayner has been appointed to the position of Acting General Manager by Interim Administrator Viv May.
Explore the Library’s new virtual story box - Storytime just got a lot more accessible at Armidale Regional Library.
Expressions of Interest sought for state of the art hydrotherapy pool complex - Armidale Regional Council is calling for Expressions of Interest (EOI) from businesses for the design, construction, co-investment and management of a state of the art hydrotherapy pool complex.
Extraordinary Council Meeting - 22 December 2020 - Live stream the Extraordinary Council Meeting
Extraordinary Council Meeting - An Extraordinary Council Meeting will be held in the Armidale Council Chambers from 9am on Thursday 12 March.
Extraordinary Council Meeting 12 March 2020 - Live stream the Extraordinary Council Meeting 12 March 2020
Female entrepreneurs to benefit from new Rural Women in Business Program - Armidale Regional Council is giving the region’s businesswomen a helping hand to coincide with this year’s International Rural Women’s Day.
First Nations’ culture recognised in playground naming poll - The history and culture of our region’s First Nations are being recognised in the name of the new playground currently under construction in Armidale’s Curtis Park.
Flight lifeline needed after Qantas halts service - Council is calling on State and Federal Government backing to maintain a passenger air service to the Armidale region, following news Qantas Airlines will suspend its flight to the area from 10 April until 31 May.
Fly Corporate announce suspension of service - The unfolding Covid-19 crisis has forced Fly Corporate to suspend passenger services from Armidale to Brisbane
Folk Museum welcomes back visitors with two new displays - Armidale Folk Museum has welcomed back visitors this month and is exhibiting two new displays following the easing of COVID-19 restrictions.
Frozen treat at School’s Out Pool Party - Monckton Aquatic Centre will be the perfect place to chill at the start of school holidays, when it hosts a School’s Out Pool Party on Saturday 19 December.
Further rain boosts dams but restrictions remain - The Armidale region’s town water supply has received a slight boost from rain in January but storage levels are still at historic lows and Level 5 restrictions remain in place.
Glitzy gathering for Seniors Extravaganza - There will be added glitz and glamour in Guyra when the biennial Seniors Extravaganza is held on Monday 9 March.
Guyra bin audit identifies need for more organics diversion - An audit of Guyra residential kerbside bins has found that waste in the red-lid general waste bin contained, on average, around 40% organic waste that could be reused.
Guyra bin audit to assess Organics collection - An audit of Guyra residential bins will be conducted soon to determine levels of cross contamination between organic and landfill waste bins.
Guyra bores near completion for supply network - Construction of bores for a ground water supply network in Guyra has entered its final stages.
Guyra Hub expansion taking shape - An expansion of The Hub at Guyra neighbourhood centre took shape last week, with the arrival and installation of the modular additions.
Guyra pool quest for polar bears return - Community meeting called to reform Guyra swimming club
Health activist is top Guyra citizen for 2020 - Cancer support volunteer and community health activist Sue Adams is the Guyra 2020 Australia Day Citizen of the Year.
Hillgrove museum ready to reopen this Friday - Hillgrove Rural Life and Industry Museum will reopen to the public from this Friday after a nine-month closure.
Howzat! New indoor cricket training facility for Armidale Sportsground - The Armidale Sportsground will soon boast its own indoor cricket training facility, thanks to a $340,000 project being delivered by the Armidale Regional Sports Council in conjunction with the Armidale District Cricket Association (ADCA).
Hydrogeology report indicates no connection between bores and Mother of Ducks - A ground water supply network being constructed in Guyra is guided by a specialist hydrogeologist report which advises there are “no recognised groundwater dependent ecosystems” near the bore sites, Council’s General Manager Businesses, Scot MacDonald, reaffirmed today.
Interim Administrator Minute - Update – Ordinary Council Meeting 22 July 2020
Interim Administrator Minute - For the next three months while I am the Interim Administrator of Armidale Regional Council, residents may be assured that I will do my best to independently serve in an honest, open and transparent way, ensuring all voices are heard.
Interim Administrator Minute – 29-7-2020 - Minute by Interim Administrator – Extraordinary Council Meeting 29 July 2020
Interim Administrator Minute – Community Update - In my first minute to Council in June I stated that residents could be assured that I would do my best to independently serve in an honest, open and transparent way ensuring all voices are heard. I can report that I am confident that this culture is now being embedded in the day to day administrative operations of ARC.
Interim Administrator Minute and Performance Improvement Order - Interim Administrator Minute and Performance Improvement Order - Ordinary Council Meeting November 2020
Interim Administrator recommends Public Inquiry and review of Councillor structure - Interim Administrator Viv May has submitted a report to the Minister for Local Government Shelley Hancock recommending a Public Inquiry under s438U of the Act into Armidale Regional Council (ARC) be held and a review of the Councillor structure following community consultation.
Interim Administrator welcomes councillors’ return - The return of the Council and democratic leadership to the people of the Armidale Regional Council area has been welcomed by Interim Administrator Viv May.
Introduction of annual permits from July 1 - Introduction of annual permits for non-desexed cats and dangerous/restricted dogs
Land and Environment Court grants injunction - Armidale Regional Council sought and was granted an interim injunction in the Land and Environment Court yesterday. This injunction was sought to protect Council from liability created by any (potentially) unlawful decision with respect to the removal of the CEO.
Leading sports presenter is Oz Day Ambassador - High-profile journalist, author and football fan Liz Deep-Jones is the Armidale region’s Australia Day Ambassador for 2020.
Let there be light at Harris Park - The Harris Park Sportsfields are one step closer to being lit up, with preliminary work to supply and erect field lighting now underway on the $350,000 project.
Level 5 water restrictions remain until outlook improves - The Armidale region will remain in Level 5 water restrictions until dam storage levels increase significantly or long-term weather forecasts indicate firm prospects for great water security, according to a report to Wednesday’s Council meeting.
Libraries, Museum and VIC to reopen Monday - From Monday 1 June Council will progressively ease COVID-19 restrictions on a range of services in-line with public health orders and guidance from the NSW Government.
Library arts competition to let creativity fly free - Youth in the Armidale region are being invited to share their creativity and thoughts about COVID-19, with the chance to win one of four $250 EFTPOS cards.
Library transforms services to meet demand - Armidale Regional Library has introduced a ‘book and collect’ service and expanded its home delivery service so members can access books and other resources during the COVID-19 shutdown.
Live stream Council Extraordinary Meeting 31 January 2020 - Watch the Council Extraordinary Meeting 31 January 2020 live
Live stream Council Ordinary Meeting 26 February 2020 - Watch the Ordinary Council Meeting
Local Aboriginal history goes digital - Armidale Regional Library staff have been busy digitising local Aboriginal history items after receiving a State Library of NSW grant.
Local wildflowers shine through drought - Recent drought conditions have given local wildflowers a chance to shine, initiating a potential change in the management of some Armidale region parks.
Manual pumps maintain water to elevated Armidale homes - Temporary changes to pumping systems will help maintain water supplies to a section of Armidale experiencing a loss of water pressure, after a lightning strike severely damaged pumping equipment at Council’s northern water reservoir on Wednesday.
Many information sessions for Budget insight - Community members will have plenty of opportunities to find out more about Armidale Regional Council’s Draft 2020/21 Budget and Operational Plan, with Council representatives preparing to hit the road and the internet for an extensive series of information sessions.
March BOM forecast to guide Council on future water restrictions for region - Council is playing it safe and maintaining current water restrictions for the Armidale region at least until the latest forecast from the Bureau of Meteorology is released in March.
March Council meeting cancelled - Council’s March Ordinary Meeting has been cancelled, while revised meeting processes are being investigated to protect councillors, staff and members of the public during the current COVID-19 crisis.
Mayor calls for independent mediator - Armidale Regional Council Mayor Cr Simon Murray says he remains committed to improving relationships with Councillors
Mayor states commitment to remain in role - Armidale Regional Council Mayor Simon Murray has stated his commitment to remain in the role, saying the need for cohesion and consistency to maintain Council’s positive work outweighed a vote of no confidence at an extraordinary meeting today.
Mayor welcomes additional assistance to resolve factions - Council welcomes all constructive input to maintain the effective operations of the organisation and its good governance, Armidale Regional Council Mayor Simon Murray said.
McGarry heads 2020 Oz Day Award winners - Rotary executive member and hockey administrator Jenny McGarry has been named Armidale’s Citizen of the Year for 2020.
Monitoring bores being installed in Guyra - Monitoring bores will be installed in Guyra’s Yarrawonda Street this week, as part of a ground water supply system being developed as a back-up to the region’s town water supply.
Mother of Ducks lagoon recreation area upgrades complete - The popular recreation area at the Mother of Ducks Lagoon Nature Reserve day use area in Guyra is ready for an influx of visitors eager to explore the region’s hidden treasures with the completion of a $459,182 upgrade.
New $1.5 million early learning centre for Guyra - Early childhood learning services in the Guyra district will be boosted by a new facility announced by Council and the Federal Member for New England, Barnaby Joyce, today.
New app to get library services with one tap - Armidale Regional Library has a new app to make it even easier and more convenient to borrow items or access online services.
New bridge to improve Castledoyle Road safety - Work is scheduled to begin on Monday to replace an ageing timber bridge on Castledoyle Road, on the eastern outskirts of Armidale.
New collection of Australian and international titles offered at Library - Armidale Regional Library members now have access to a huge online collection of independent Australian and international titles novels, classic literature and modern, award-winning titles.
New digital cameras boost CCTV network - Security video surveillance in Armidale’s Beardy Street is being enhanced by an update to digital technology.
New field lights burning bright at Harris Park - Last Friday evening the new field lighting installed at Harris Park sportsground in Armidale were officially switched on.
New grandstand for Guyra Lions Sporting Complex - A successful NSW Government My Community Funding application and partnership with Armidale Regional Council will deliver a new grandstand and upgraded facilities for the Guyra Junior Rugby League Club.
New playground to drive creeklands revival - Armidale’s popular new playground in Curtis Park will be a major driver in breathing new life into the creeklands and the central business district, Council’s Interim Administrator Viv May told an opening ceremony for the precinct yesterday.
New roundabout improves traffic safety on UNE campus - A new roundabout constructed by Armidale Regional Council and open to traffic last month will improve traffic safety on the UNE campus, helping to reduce the number of reported near misses.
New roundabout on Elm Avenue - A new roundabout will be constructed next month to improve traffic safety at an intersection on the University of New England’s (UNE) Armidale campus.
New software reflected in healthy street trees - Street trees in the Armidale region are about to get some added cloud assistance – of the digital variety.
New technology to monitor trade waste - New technology will soon be used to help keep trade waste out of the Armidale region’s sewer system, to avoid costly contamination.
New toilets for Guyra Recreation Grounds - A new accessible toilet block has been constructed at the Guyra Recreation Grounds this month, realising long-held plans for facilities for sporting groups using the complex.
Next chapter for more agile libraries - Armidale Library will be more versatile to host activities and services, thanks to modifications being made to the front of the library building from this week.
No further action on hydrotherapy pool project - A peer review undertaken on the proposed development of the New England Regional Hydrotherapy Centre has exposed a considerable risk to Armidale Regional Council’s reputation and its financial capacity to construct and operate the proposed centre.
Nominations open to recognise inspiring community members - Nominations are now open for the 2021 Australia Day Awards, an opportunity to celebrate individuals and organisations who have contributed to their communities.
Notice of a Public Meeting - A public meeting of the NSW Local Government Grants Commission will be held on Tuesday 11 February 2020 at Council Chambers, 135 Rusden Street, Armidale commencing at 9am.
Online platform launches for lodgement of DAs - Property owners and industry professionals can now fast-track residential planning applications through an online planning portal launched by the NSW Government.
Ordinary Council Meeting - 25 November 2020 - Live stream the Ordinary Council Meeting
Performance Improvement Order - Performance Improvement Order on Armidale Regional Council
Pioneering payment system for water stations - Water filling stations established to assist rural households in the Armidale region Local Government Area are set to become a national pilot for a new system to ensure the facilities properly target the people they are designed to assist.
Powerline replacement for Guyra main street - Guyra’s main street redevelopment is entering another important phase, with designs being finalised to replace the overhead powerlines.
Puddledock funding brings greater water security - Water security for Armidale region town water customers will be boosted by a Puddledock Dam pipeline upgrade officially set in motion today.
Raised water fees to maintain water reserve - Changes to water fees and charges in the draft 2020/21 Budget are a response to welcome changes in community water consumption levels and a greater appreciation of the value of this resource, Council’s Director – Businesses, Scot MacDonald, said.
Rangers respond to influx of animal surrenders and adoptions - Armidale Animal Companion Shelter is experiencing some of its busiest days, as Council Rangers respond to an influx of animal surrenders and adoptions.
Recruitment commences for new GM - The recruitment of a new General Manager for Armidale Regional Council has commenced with the role being advertised from tomorrow.
Reduced use prompts Tilbuster waste station closure - Tilbuster Waste Transfer Station will close at the end of the year, as extensions to kerbside collection services bring reduced use of the transfer station.
Region buoyed by recent rainfall - minimal impact on dams - Recent rainfall across the Armidale region is welcome news for farmers and rural land owners but has had minimal impact on Malpas Dam.
Region’s pools given the COVID-Safe tick of approval - Guyra Swimming Pool and Monckton Aquatic Centre will reopen next week, with a detailed COVID-Safety plan in place to keep the community safe.
Region’s water consumption behaviours now on display - The Armidale region was burdened by the worst drought on record last year and now residents can compare water usage and dam storage levels dating back to pre-drought conditions to help in our ongoing water conservation efforts.
Relief for farmers upon successful amalgamation of vacant farmland properties - The Interim Administrator Viv May has made good his promise to provide an avenue for relief to farmers with multiple vacant farmland properties .
Relief for ratepayers and not-for-profit lessees available now from Council - Armidale Regional Council is offering immediate relief to ratepayers experiencing genuine financial hardship due to the Coronavirus pandemic by allowing a three month payment deferral period and relief to not-for-profit organisations renting property from Council.
Reports reveal extent of past financial management and a sustainable way forward - Interim Administrator Viv May said the long awaited finance reports tabled at the Council Meeting yesterday confirmed his worst fears and were a much needed reality check for Council to move beyond its current woes and gain the respect of the community again.
Residents invited to vote on Guyra mural options - Guyra’s main street is getting a new mural and residents are invited to help finalise the design. A community poll begins today inviting residents to choose between two concept designs for the mural, which will feature on several structures and is part of the Guyra main street upgrade.
Residents to remain focused on water conservation as temperatures climb and dam levels fall - Council is reminding residents to stay the course and adhere to level 3 water restrictions as temperatures climb and the Armidale region catchment misses out on much needed rainfall to top-up the water supply.
Response to the Minister for Local Government - A message from the Mayor Cr Simon Murray
Resumed tree planting extended to villages - Street tree planting by Council is returning from a two-year break, after sources of reused water were identified to help establish the trees.
Revised CBD speed limit for Bradley Street - A section of Guyra’s main street will be converted to a 40kmh speed zone from the end of this month to improve pedestrian safety.
REX resumes flights to Armidale - Negotiations between Council and Regional Express Airlines (REX) have yielded a positive outcome for the region with the re-introduction of flights between Armidale and Sydney from today Tuesday 21 July, 2020.
Rockvale Road seal to enhance regional link - Rockvale Road will be boosted as a northern regional link from Armidale, with work starting next week to improve traffic safety by sealing a 1.4-kilometre section at the northern end of the road.
Safety first as Armidale Regional Airport readies for security screening & further enhancement - Air safety for regional passengers flying in and out of Armidale Regional Airport will be improved with funding of $1.8 million from the Federal Government’s Aviation and Maritime Safety and Security Program to install security screening.
Shade strategy for playgrounds - A five-year strategy to provide shade at playgrounds in the Armidale region has been presented to Council for consideration for its 2020/2021 Budget.
Shade structures for sun smart playgrounds - Shade structures are being installed at two playgrounds in Armidale this week, to enhance sun protection for users.
Singing from the same song sheet - A new Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between Armidale Regional Council and New England Conservatorium of Music (NECOM) is set to further develop the arts industry and exhibit local talent in front of greater audiences.
Small businesses offered financial support - Small businesses across the region that have been significantly affected by drought, fire, or the COVID-19 pandemic will soon be given some needed financial assistance.
Smart water meters proposed for households - Smart meters for homes in the Armidale Region are being considered by Council to give water users greater control of their consumption and help manage the region’s overall water use.
Solar lighting installation for a safer cycleway - Construction of new solar lighting on the Armidale Cycleway is scheduled to begin next week, with a longer section to be fitted with lighting as a result of improved cost efficiencies.
Statement - From Interim Administrator Mr Viv May.
Storm damage repairs on Kempsey Road - Work is underway to repair storm damage on Kempsey Road, with a target to reopen an initial section by 9 April.
Submissions still open on the proposed SRV - There is still time to share your views on the proposed SRV as submissions still open until 10 December 2020.
Successful community input to GM recruitment - A community reference group convened to assist with the recruitment of Armidale Regional Council’s next General Manager has been highly successful in providing public input to the selection criteria, according to Interim Administrator Viv May.
Take the survey to share your views on drought management of town water supply - Stakeholder sessions held in Armidale and Guyra have yielded valuable insights into the development of a new drought management plan for Guyra and Armidale’s town water supply.
Teddy Sheean Victoria Cross honour reminds us of the courage of the crew of HMAS Armidale - This week’s announcement by the Prime Minster Scott Morrison to award WWII hero Teddy Sheean the highest military honour the Victoria Cross is long overdue and very close to the heart of the inhabitants of the city of Armidale.
Tips for magpie swooping season - Spring is on our doorstep and the region’s magpies are preparing to protect their own backyards.
Trampolines added to Curtis Park playground - Local youngsters will be jumping for joy following news of another additional feature at the Curtis Park playground currently under construction.
Volunteers recognised at international celebration - Champions in the local community were honoured at an International Volunteers Day presentation ceremony and lunch at Armidale City Bowling Club on Tuesday.
Volunteers wanted for reopening Hillgrove Museum - Hillgrove Museum is being prepared to reopen and the search is on for community members keen to be part of the next chapter of the museum’s own history.
Water strategy a key step to higher dam capacity - Measures to increase Malpas Dam’s storage capacity and boost water security for the Armidale region have moved another step closer, with Council launching a long-term assessment of the Armidale region’s water infrastructure, supply needs and community expectations.
Waterfall Way Regional Landfill now operational - Environmentally sustainable Waste management for the region secured for the next fifty years, with the new Waterfall Way regional landfill opening today.
Work beginning for Pint Pot Bridge replacement - Site preparations get underway this week for the replacement of Pint Pot Bridge, on Rockvale Road, as part of Council’s Bridge Renewal Program.
Work commences to link emergency bores - Council crews have begun to construct the underground piping and pumping network
World class landfill secures Armidale region’s waste for 50 years - Proposed new charges and harmonisation for Waste Services

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New taskforce to pilot domestic violence program for First Nations men in the Armidale region: A new taskforce has been established to help pilot and facilitate the establishment of a community centred, culturally safe domestic violence program for First Nations men in the Armidale region.

Highlights of the September 22 Ordinary Council Meeting: A wrap-up of the Council Meeting

Work to commence on new Beardy Street Mall stage in early October: The reconstruction of the Beardy Street Mall stage will soon begin, marking a significant milestone in the Mall Revitalisation program.

Planned closure for Armidale Library renovations: Some adjustments are being made to the library to allow for the creation of more open spaces and a community living room to accommodate a variety of programs, events and exhibitions.

2021 Armidale Spring Games postponed: Due to the current COVID-19 outbreak, Armidale Regional Council has made the decision to postpone the inaugural Armidale Spring Games until further notice.

Online transactions peak throughout lockdown: If the global pandemic has taught us anything, it’s how quickly people can adapt to change. While the transition to work-from-home environments was a swift one for the region six weeks ago, Council’s Customer Service team quickly adjusted to their home environments to ensure they could continue to meet the needs of the community, while adhering to Public Health Orders.

COVID Response: NON-essential public facing services will resume on Wednesday 15 September.

Applications open for Black Summer Bushfire Recovery Program: Rural and Regional communities in LGAs across Australia, disaster declared during the 2019-20 Black Summer Bushfires are encouraged to apply for funding through the Australian Government’s Black Summer Bushfire Recovery (BSBR) Program.

Productivity flows thanks to new irrigation system: Council’s Waste Water Treatment Plant and Reuse Farm has found a way to increase efficiency and reduce manual labour costs when maintaining crops grown at the farm through embracing a new centre pivot irrigation system.

Swooping September is upon us: While many of us are excited to wave goodbye to the region’s Winter months and soak up the sun in the region’s beautiful outdoor spaces, this simple pleasure can come at a cost during the early weeks of Spring. With magpie swooping season now upon us, it’s time to start thinking about ways to get through this time unscathed.