Message from the Mayor
Councillor Ola Hamed
Welcome back, and Happy New Year to everyone across Cumberland. As we begin 2026, let’s remember that all of us are better together. No one wins out of hate, and our strength lies in the love, unity, and compassion we share as a community.
The end of 2025 was a challenging time for Sydney, yet Cumberland once again showed the world who we are: a community defined by resilience, care, and support for one another. I also want to pay tribute to the heroes, from the first responders and volunteers, to everyday people who step up in times of need. In particular, I honour Ahmed al-Ahmed, whose courageous actions during the Bondi Beach attack inspired the nation.
As we step into 2026 and many households prepare for the school year ahead, my focus remains on creating spaces where all young people and the young at heart can play, grow, and shine. Cumberland is home to families of every shape and size, and investing in safe, inclusive, and accessible sport and recreation facilities is one of my top priorities.
I’m thrilled to share that the Laurie Ferguson Splash Park at Granville Park is almost complete! Designed with children and families in mind, this much-loved space will be a fun, welcoming, and accessible place for splashing, playing, and making magical memories for generations to come. I look forward to inviting you all to the official opening very soon.
Progress Park in Auburn and Nemesia Street Park in Greystanes are also transforming into vibrant hubs for local families and community groups. Nemesia Street reopened in December with two brand-new netball courts, a mini practice court, an amenities block, plus fresh landscaping, lighting, and pathways, making it easier for everyone to enjoy. Works are well underway at Progress Park, where we’re delivering a new synthetic field, full reconstructions of Field 1 and Field 2, new LED floodlighting, a modern centrally controlled irrigation system, and upgraded drainage. These upgrades are about more than sport, they’re about creating places where our growing community can gather, connect, and celebrate together.
This year is extra special, as 2026 marks ten years since our Council was formed. What a journey it’s been! From milestones big and small, we’ve shared countless memories, and together we’ve achieved so much in just a decade. The best part? We’re only getting started. We’re bringing you another massive line-up of community programs and events, shaped by what you’ve told us you love about celebrating in Cumberland. From from babies to seniors, and everyone in between, there will be something for all of us to enjoy.
Here’s to the next 10 years of growth, celebration, and community pride. To Ahmed, to f irst responders, to our volunteers, to every quiet hero, and to everyone of you who is striving
for togetherness and standing against hate, thank you. Let’s continue to spread love and unity, because together we are always better.
Take care, and I look forward to seeing you around Cumberland.
Ola
Community News
Fireworks; Stupid Mistake, For Park's Sake
Cumberland City Council has observed a significant increase in damage and vandalism to Council property and public spaces during the holiday period due to the use of illegal fireworks.
Our City, Our Pride!
Have you noticed this message on Council garbage trucks in your area? It's all part of Council’s Clean Cumberland initiative.
This initiative is designed to inspire better waste management across our community by encouraging local businesses and the community to take pride in their streets and public spaces. Whether it's rubbish collection, battery disposal services, or promoting general cleanliness in our streets and parks, we’re committed to keeping Cumberland clean and proud.
Together. let's take pride in our city and keep it beautiful for everyone.
To learn more, visit: www.cumberland.nsw.gov.au/waste
Granville Swim Centre Gym
Time to level up your fitness! Granville Swim Centre Gym has everything you need to stay active.
Offering over 30 wellness classes every week, including aqua aerobics, personal training sessions and state-of the-art equipment. We offer a wide and flexible range of membership levels to fit your needs, including swim centre memberships.
Enrol at Cumberland’s Long Day Care and OOSH Services
Affordable, trusted quality education and care for children aged 0 - 12.
From 1 January 2026, families can enjoy up to 72 hours of subsidised care each fortnight for all children!
As an extra bonus, Council is also offering a savings boost with Start Strong funding - up to $2,563 per year for children aged 4+ and $769 for children aged 3.
What's On
Lunar New Year
Celebrate the Year of the Fire Horse at our Lunar New Year celebration! Enjoy stunning entertainment, traditional dances, delicious food and family-friendly fun.
Saturday 21 February, 5pm to 9pm
Auburn Park
For more information, visit: www.cumberland.nsw.gov.au/lunar-new-year
Ramadan
The Ramadan Street Festival is back across two magical days. Indulge in delicious food, discover new flavours, and enjoy the cultural festivities with family and friends.
From Saturday 7 to Sunday 8 March, 7pm to 12am
Auburn
For more information, visit: www.cumberland.nsw.gov.au/ramadan
Nowruz
Join us with live music, performances, dances and cultural activities to celebrate the rich traditions of Nowruz.
Saturday 21 March, 5pm to 9pm
Merrylands
For more information, visit: www.cumberland.nsw.gov.au/nowruz
Eid Lighting Competition 2026
Join your neighbours in lighting up Cumberland with the spirit of Eid. Residents are invited to take part by submitting an online entry form, with their details and a photo of their light display.
For more information, visit: www.cumberland.nsw.gov.au/eid-lighting
In the Works
Footpath Projects
Council has recently completed footpath renewals at Jersey Road in Merrylands where 171m of footpath in total was resurfaced and new concrete was laid.
Amenities Upgrades
A new amenities block has recently been installed by Council at Lytton Street Park in Wentworthville and Dirrbarri Reserve in Pemulwuy. The installation included a new exeloo which features auto wash and auto lock features. Both amenities are now open to the public.
Have Your Say
You are invited to have your say on a range of Council projects, plans and policies that are currently on exhibition. Your feedback helps shape Council’s delivery of services, facilities and programs.
For more information visit: https://haveyoursay.cumberland.nsw.gov.au/
Cumberland City Councillors
Residents can contact their local Councillor to share ideas and discuss any issues of concern.
