Message from the Mayor
Councillor Ola Hamed
As 2025 draws to a close, I want to take a moment to reflect on what has been an incredible year for Cumberland.
I would like to thank Clr Michael Zaiter for his service as Deputy Mayor over the past year and warmly congratulate Clr Nadima Kafrouni-Saba on her election as our new Deputy Mayor.
Together, we’ve delivered major projects, supported our community through meaningful programs, and celebrated the people and places that make Cumberland such a special place to call home.
This year, Council has invested heavily in improving local infrastructure through upgrading our parks, playgrounds, roads and town centres to create safe, accessible and welcoming spaces for everyone. Highlights include a $1.2 million upgrade at Alderson Park in Merrylands, a $1.4 million expansion of the Auburn Basketball Centre and a $1.1 million playground upgrade at Kibo Reserve in Berala.
I'm proud that Council has been busy enhancing local infrastructure, community spaces and parks for the community to enjoy. This year, kilometres of roads and footpaths have been renewed and new state of the art smart-safety public amenities installed at Merrylands Train Station, Dirrabari Reserve in Pemulwuy and Lytton Street Park in Wentworthville.
Throughout the year we have celebrated our diversity with Council’s Major events program including Christmas, Nowruz, Lunar New Year, Ramadan, Easter and Diwali. The heart of it is all the same - reflection, hope, and community.
I know how hard it is for families who are doing it tough right now. That's why I've introduced the new 'Hardship Assistance' grant to help support children and youth in education and in sport to ensure no child is left behind. As we move into early 2026, the much-anticipated Laurie Ferguson Splash Park at Granville Park will officially open to the community. This project is particularly special to me, and I made a promise that it would provide a fun, inclusive, and accessible recreation space for local families to enjoy for generations to come. You will all be invited to join me for the official opening celebration, and I'll be sharing more details and updates with you as we get closer to the big day!
I am looking forward to the completion of the Guildford Pool project which will give families and swimmers more ways to stay active and healthy. The Nemesia Street Park upgrade in Greystanes will feature two brand new netball courts and the Duck River Regional Playground will be an inclusive and accessible playspace next to the Auburn Botanic Gardens.
On behalf of Cumberland City Council, I wish you and your families a safe and joyful Christmas, and a very Happy New Year. Please drive carefully and remember to swim between the flags.
I look forward to seeing you all at our next event, Christmas in the Gardens on Saturday 13 December from 5pm to 9pm at Auburn Botanic Gardens.
Take care and see you around Cumberland.
Ola
Year in Review
Upcoming Events
Christmas in the Gardens
Celebrate the festive season right here in Cumberland! Join us on Saturday 13 December 2025, from 5pm to 9pm for our annual Christmas in the Gardens Celebration and stroll through the Auburn Botanic Gardens to enjoy a range of festive activities such as arts, crafts and entertainment. Santa will also be taking time out of his busy North Pole schedule to stop by and say hello!
For more information, visit: www.cumberland.nsw.gov.au/christmas-gardens
Santa Storytime
Join Santa for a special Christmas Storytime and classic Christmas carols. The jolly old man will delight children with enchanting Christmas stories and lead a festive sing-along featuring beloved classics like Jingle Bells, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, and We Wish You a Merry Christmas.
- Merrylands Library - Tuesday 9 December 2025, 11am
- Granville Library - Thursday 11 December 2025, 11am
- Wentworthville Library - Tuesday 16 December 2025, 11am
- Auburn Library - Wednesday 17 December 2025, 11am
For more information, visit: www.cumberland.nsw.gov.au/santa-storytime
International Day for People with Disability
Join us for MoveMakers to celebrate International Day of People with Disability. This free, inclusive dance therapy session welcomes people with disability (18+) and their carers living in Cumberland. No dance experience is needed! Enjoy movement, expression, light refreshments, and connect with others in a fun, supportive environment. Wednesday 3 December 2025, 5pm to 6pm Guildford Community Centre, North Hall
To book please call 8757 9041 or for more information, visit: www.cumberland.nsw.gov.au/IDPWD
Australia Day 2026
Get ready for an evening of fun, food, and fireworks as Cumberland comes alive on Australia Day! Join us for a celebration that brings the whole community together. From live music, cultural performances, children's activities, and a delicious variety of food trucks and market stalls, there is plenty for you, your friends and family to enjoy. As the sun sets, stick around for the spectacular fireworks finale lighting up the skies. Bring your picnic blanket and soak up the festive atmosphere as we celebrate the spirit, stories, and diversity that makes Australia unique.
- Monday 26 January 2026, 5pm to 9pm
- Holroyd Gardens, Merrylands
For more information, visit: www.cumberland.nsw.gov.au/australia-day
Operating Hours
Council’s Customer Service Centres, Swim Centres, Libraries and other venues will have updated operating hours over the festive season.
Visit our website for all operating hours: www.cumberland.nsw.gov.au/hours
Bin Collection
There will be no changes to your waste and recycling collection dates over the festive season.
For more information about your bin collection days, visit: www.cumberland.nsw.gov.au/bins-waste-and-recycling
Cumberland City Councillors
Residents can contact their local Councillor to share ideas and discuss any issues of concern.
