Message from the Mayor
Councillor Ola Hamed
Big news, Cumberland! Construction is officially underway at the Auburn Basketball Centre in Wyatt Park, I had the pleasure of joining NSW Minister for Sport Stephen Kamper, Member for Auburn Lynda Voltz and fellow Councillors to turn the first soil and kick off what’s going to be a real game changer for our community. This brand-new, high-performance facility will create fantastic opportunities for young athletes, both boys and girls to chase their basketball dreams, right here in Western Sydney. And here’s the slam dunk - it’s set to become the new home of the Sydney Flames and Sydney Kings. Big things are happening all over Cumberland!
I’m thrilled to announce that the upgrade of Progress Park is now officially underway! Soon, players will enjoy a brand-new, state-of-the-art synthetic field that will transform the way we play. I understand that some residents may have concerns about the environmental impact of synthetic fields. I want to assure you that this project prioritises sustainability, with features such as recyclable and natural materials, mitigation measures to prevent the migration of plastics, and stormwater harvesting and reuse—helping us conserve valuable resources.
We all know how important our recreational spaces are, and how frustrating it can be when fields are out of action for weeks after bad weather. This upgrade means players will be able to enjoy more consistent access to training, games, and casual play throughout the year, regardless of the conditions. Rain, hail or shine, Cumberland will keep kicking goals—and this is just one part of the exciting investment Council is making in local sport.
Up next, new floodlighting systems are being installed at Bathurst Street Park in Greystanes and Webbs Avenue Reserve in Auburn, with $806,000 allocated for Bathurst Street Park and $1,026,000 for Webbs Avenue Reserve. These upgrades will allow training sessions to run longer and safer into the evenings, providing our community with more opportunities to stay active and enjoy their favourite sports. Additionally, I've requested the General Manager to provide our local sporting groups with a one-off financial adjustment to help offset disruptions caused by this year’s wet weather. All of this work is about building better facilities, creating more opportunities for young athletes, and keeping our community active, connected, and thriving. I can’t wait to see these projects come to life.
Lastly, I’m delighted to invite everyone to celebrate this year’s Moon Festival. Join us on Saturday, 11 October from 5:30pm to 9pm at Guilfoyle Park, Regents Park for a magical evening under the stars with a free open-air cinema screening of Sing 2. Bring your family and friends and don’t forget your picnic blanket. I hope to see you there!
Take care and see you around Cumberland.
Ola
Community News
Wentworthville Community Garden Open Day
Join the passionate members of the Wentworthville Community Garden for their Annual Open Day on Saturday 18 October 2025.
Come along and experience the heart of our local garden, pick up expert gardening tips, and explore market stalls brimming with fresh produce, unique trash ‘n’ treasure finds, and handcrafted goods. Enjoy a delicious sausage sizzle, morning tea, and chat with the dedicated volunteers who’ve been growing and giving back for over 10 years.
Don’t forget to bring your shopping bags, you’ll find plants and seedlings, homemade cakes, jams, pickles, crafts, and quality preloved goods ready to take home. It’s a wonderful day out for the whole community!
For more information, visit: www.cumberland.nsw.gov.au/garden-open-day
Native Plant Giveaway
Council’s Native Plant Giveaway is back! On Sunday 5 October, from 9am to 3pm, residents can pick up two free plants to help increase canopy cover, reduce urban heat, and create habitats for local biodiversity. There will be one pick-up point at Auburn Botanic Gardens, and registrations are essential.
To register, visit: www.cumberland.nsw.gov.au/native-plant-giveaway
Cumberland's Safe Kids Day
Don't miss the action at Cumberland’s Safe Kids Day on Saturday 18 October 2025, from 10am to 1pm at Auburn Centre for Community!
This free community event is all about promoting children's emotional wellbeing and personal safety in a fun, engaging way. Families can enjoy a morning filled with:
- Body safety and emotional literacy sessions for preschoolers with Integrated Violence Prevention & Response Service (IVPRS)
- Crafts and recreational activities for school-aged children
- Information stalls from local support services
- 500 free sausage sizzles available on the day It’s a great opportunity to learn, connect, and enjoy quality time together.
For more information, visit: www.cumberland.nsw.gov.au/safe-kids-day
Bite into Business
In celebration of Small Business Month 2025, we’re inviting local business owners and people looking to start a business to join us on Tuesday 14 October, from 5pm to 9pm, at the Regent Street Pavilion.
This event offers the perfect opportunity to connect, gain inspiration, and celebrate the community spirit that drives local businesses. We’re excited to welcome Australian TV legend Iain ‘Huey’ Hewitson, who will be hosting a live cooking demonstration, Q&A session, and meet and greet. This is your chance to meet and learn from a true industry icon. Tickets are just $10, and registration is essential.
For tickets or more details, visit: www.cumberland.nsw.gov.au/bite-business
What's On
Children's Clothing and Toy Swap
In celebration of National Recycling Week, you're invited to join us for a fun and sustainable event to refresh your child’s wardrobe and toy collection.
Thursday 13 November, 9:30am to 11am
Merrylands Council Administration Building
This event is a fantastic way to support recycling and reduce waste while giving your little ones something new to enjoy.
Places are limited, so be sure to secure your spot early!
To register, visit: www.cumberland.nsw.gov.au/swap-meet
Diwali Street Festival
For the very first time, Council is proud to host a massive two-day Diwali celebration in one of Cumberland’s most vibrant locations.
- Saturday 1 and Sunday 2 November
- Wentworthville
Experience the magic as Wentworthville comes alive with a lively street bazaar, bursting with colourful stalls, a diverse lineup of cultural performances, and mouth watering festival cuisines.
Don’t miss this unforgettable celebration of light, culture, and community!
To learn more, visit: www.cumberland.nsw.gov.au/diwali
Seniors Christmas Concert
Council is spreading festive cheer with free Seniors Christmas Concerts! Enjoy a delicious two-course meal while tapping your toes to the lively sounds of talented entertainers. Gather your friends and join the fun at one of five concert locations near you!
Registrations open: Monday 27 October 2025. Registration closes: One week before each concert or when fully booked. Don’t miss out!
To register, and to see the terms and conditions, visit: www.cumberland.nsw.gov.au/christmas-concerts
In the Works
Road Renewals
Council has recently completed road renewals at Newman Street in Merrylands where over 380m of road in total was resurfaced and new asphalt was laid.
Footpath Project
Council has recently completed footpath renewals at Killeen Street in Auburn where 70m of footpath in total was resurfaced and new concrete was laid.
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.
