Mayors Column 25 September 2026

Published on 25 September 2026

It has been another busy fortnight across the Upper Hunter, with plenty happening as we head into the school holidays and another big weekend of events across the Shire.

Last weekend, Merriwa welcomed the return of the Springtime Show, with the community coming together for three days of competition, entertainment and agricultural displays. Events like the Springtime Show take an enormous amount of work behind the scenes, and I would like to congratulate the Merriwa PAH&I Association, volunteers, stewards, sponsors, competitors and everyone who played a part in putting on another successful show. It remains an important event on Merriwa’s calendar and a great opportunity to celebrate the agricultural traditions and community spirit of the district.

With the school holidays now here, Council has a number of activities planned for young people across the Upper Hunter. This Monday, Murrurundi will host a free Zombie Colour Run, BBQ and movie afternoon for young people aged 10 to 17, with free bus transport available from Scone and Merriwa. There are more activities planned throughout the holidays, including movie and pizza nights in Murrurundi, Scone and Merriwa. Keep an eye on Council’s website and Facebook page for details of what is coming up.

This weekend is another big one for Murrurundi, with the King of the Ranges Stockman’s Challenge and Bush Festival running from today through to Sunday. Saturday is the main festival day and there will be plenty happening, with traditional stockman skills, horsemanship, markets, live entertainment, bush activities and plenty more. King of the Ranges has become a great celebration of the skills and traditions that have long been part of life in our region, and I encourage anyone looking for something to do this weekend to head along and support the event and Murrurundi community.

Looking a little further ahead, Council’s annual Bulk Waste Clean Up begins in October. A reminder to please wait until the Sunday immediately before your scheduled collection week before placing items on the kerb. Putting bulky items out too early can create unnecessary obstacles and hazards for people using footpaths and nature strips. Collections will take place across the Shire from 12 to 30 October, with dates varying between towns, so please check Council’s website for your collection week and information about what can and cannot be accepted. 

Australia Day Award nominations are on the horizon as well. Each year these awards give us the opportunity to recognise people and groups who make an important contribution to communities across the Upper Hunter. Keep an eye on Council’s Facebook page and website for nomination details when they become available.

There is certainly plenty happening as we move further into spring, and I hope everyone enjoys the school holidays and takes the opportunity to support some of the great events being held across our Shire.