Mayor's Message

22 January 

AUSTRALIA DAY CELEBRATION

I’m looking forward to joining the Ryde community at Meadowbank Park from 4.00 – 9.00pm on Sunday 26 January for Council’s annual Australia Day celebration.

It promises to be a fantastic day of fun activities and great food. You’ll be able to test your sporting skills, enjoy live bands, dance groups, cultural performances and an ‘Aussie Adventure’ show where you can sing along to some Australian classics before a spectacular fireworks finale closes out the evening.

I’m also proud to be presiding over a special Citizenship Ceremony on the morning of Australia Day during which we will welcome 100 new arrivals to our country and to our amazingly diverse and inclusive City. Find out more here.

BLENHEIM PARK UPDATE

I want to update the community on the ongoing and important remediation works taking place at Blenheim Park, North Ryde, which has been closed following the discovery of contaminants, including asbestos, heavy metals, hydrocarbons, and hazardous ground gases during investigative excavation work for the park’s upgrade in August last year. 

After extensive assessments by Council’s Subject Experts and independent Environmental Consultants, it was determined that the Park will need to be closed until the identified safety risks have been satisfactorily resolved. 

Council is finalising investigation reports and engaging specialist contractors to carry out the necessary remediation works. 

While the park is tentatively scheduled to reopen in mid to late 2025, this reopening will be temporary. The park is expected to close again in early 2026 to allow for construction activities associated with the exciting Blenheim Park Masterplan, which will amplify activity on this popular recreation area for the long-term benefit of our community.

I appreciate your patience and understanding as we address these challenges and work towards delivering a safe and improved park for everyone to enjoy.

STORM RELIEF

The storm that battered Sydney last week had a major impact on the City of Ryde, with widespread power outages, ongoing internet disruptions and the SES having to deal with 210 requests for assistance, as of 20 January.

Council also stepped in to help, extending library hours so people could recharge their devices and access the internet as well as making other Council facilities available for impacted residents to have hot showers.

Some power outages are expected to continue this week. Please visit the homepage for details on how we can assist.

Sincerely, 
Trenton Brown – Mayor