Message from the Mayor
Hi Cumberland,
May is a truly special month for our community as we officially celebrate 10 incredible years as a Council! I couldn’t be prouder of everything we’ve achieved together in such a short time and I want to extend heartfelt congratulations to our community for standing with us every step of the way. Back in 2017, as a Councillor, I could see the challenges of amalagamation. Today as Mayor, I am delighted to lead a community that is thriving despite the negative rhetoric that has been cast our way over the years. I’m thrilled to continue shaping Cumberland’s future with all of you. From the growing success of our cultural community events to landmark infrastructure projects like Eric Tweedale Stadium and Civic Park in Pendle Hill, Cumberland continues to deliver for our community year after year! Thank you all again for the last 10 years, I can’t wait for many more to come.
Council recently hosted its very first Easter Extravaganza and the Granville Centre truly became the biggest party in town! With incredible DJs, the iconic Knafeh from the Bearded Bakers, classic car displays, an adorable petting zoo and free rides, I was blown away by how our community rallied around this fantastic two‑day celebration. If you missed the Easter Extravaganza, don’t worry, our Back to Guildford Festival is just around the corner and I’m hearing that our Guildford locals are planning to go even bigger and louder than last year. So come along and join in the fun!
Lastly, I’ve been lucky to experience many wonderful achievements in my professional and political life, but nothing comes close to the joy of being a mum to my two incredible sons. It is truly my greatest blessing. With that same joy in my heart, I want to wish every mother and mother figure in Cumberland a very happy Mother’s Day! Your love, your strength and the way you hold your families together is simply priceless. You are the heartbeat of our homes, our workplaces and our community. Thank you for everything you do. To celebrate Mothers Day, I’d like to share this beautiful quote from Linda Wooten: “Being a mother is learning about strengths you didn’t know you had and dealing with fears you didn’t know existed.” I hope each of you feels that strength shining brightly within you.
See you around Cumberland.
Ola
Community News
Community Improvement District (CID) Upgrades
As part of the NSW Government’s Community Improvement District Pilot Program, Council has teamed up with local businesses and our amazing community to give the Guildford Town Centre a fresh new vibe.
Keep your eyes peeled over the coming weeks — you might just spot some of the exciting new installations popping up around town!
Joseph Street Precinct Upgrade
Council is progressing plans to revitalise the Joseph Street Precinct in Lidcombe, following the adoption of the Lidcombe Town Centre Public Domain Plan.
The project will deliver more public space, improved streets and a welcoming environment with outdoor dining opportunities, new tree canopy, public art and upgraded street furniture.
For more information, visit: haveyoursay.cumberland.nsw.gov.au
Green Lid Bins
Council is standardising waste services for all freestanding houses in Cumberland. Freestanding houses currently without a green lid bin will soon have one delivered. Residents don't need to do a thing, Council will deliver it to your door!
Watch this space for updates.
For more information, visit: www.cumberland.nsw.gov.au/bin-rollout
Progress Park Upgrade
Progress Park, located on Chisholm Road and Killeen Street in Auburn, is undergoing a major transformation. The upgrade includes the installation of Cumberland’s first synthetic sports field in one of the three fields, marking a significant milestone for the area. The new synthetic surface will reduce ongoing maintenance and create more opportunities for local clubs and community groups to use the space year‑round.
The playing surface of the other two fields is being renewed with new turf and field irrigation. Work is progressing well, with the upgraded park expected to be completed by July, weather permitting.
Compost Awareness Week 3–9 May 2026
Composting and worm farming are cheap and easy ways to reduce your organic waste at home and return vital nutrients to your garden soil!
This year's theme ‘Compost! Feed the Soil that Feeds Us’ highlights the vital role compost plays in sustaining life on land. Soil grows the food we eat, filters the water we drink and sustains the biodiversity that keeps our ecosystems in balance.
Cumberland City Council residents receive a $50 rebate for any compost bin or worm farm purchased. The rebate is available to both homeowners and tenants.
To get your rebate, visit: www.cumberland.nsw.gov.au/ get-bin
Enrol at Cumberland’s Long Day Care and OOSH Services
Affordable, trusted quality education and care for children aged 0-12. This year, 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.
For more information, visit www.cumberland.nsw.gov.au/enrol
What's On
Cumberland Young Writers Award 2026
The Cumberland Young Writers Award 2026 is now open! Local students aged 8 to 18 years are invited to showcase their talents through short stories, poetry, or graphic short stories.
Entries must use the official inspirational images provided for each age category and winners will see their work published in a library anthology.
Entries close: Friday 26 July 2026
For more information, visit: www.cumberland.nsw.gov.au/young-writers-award
Back to Guildford Festival
Don’t miss Cumberland’s famous street festival! Celebrate local culture with fabulous live music and delicious global eats. A joyful community party for everyone.
- Saturday 23 May, 5pm to 9pm
- Guildford Road, Guildford
For more information, visit: www.cumberland.nsw.gov.au/guildford-festival
In the Works
Road Renewals
Council has recently completed road renewals at Rawson Road in Guildford and Chisholm Road in Auburn where over 870m of road in total was resurfaced and new asphalt was laid.
Footpath Projects
At Manchester Street and Sheffield Street in Merrylands, Council has resurfaced 630 metres of footpath and laid new concrete.
Let us know of any issues in your area by logging a request via Council's website: www.cumberland.nsw.gov.au/report-and-request
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.
