Works update – 24 June 2026

The new Methvens Bridge on Gradys Creek Road has opened to traffic.
It has taken Council less than three months to build the new bridge. All that remains to be done now is clean-up the site and remove the side-track.
In the meantime, the opening date for the new Montgomerys Bridge is still on track for the end of August despite disruptions caused by the ongoing wet weather. Work on the final abutment began this week, and once the final girders are installed the crew will start work constructing the deck insitu.
Piling works are progressing on the Clarks Lane footbridge, with all the pilings expected to be completed by the end of the week. The focus will then turn to concrete works.
Council recognises the impact the ongoing wet weather has had on its 700km gravel road network and how this effects residents. Council is doing all it can to maintain its unsealed roads, but the consistent rainfall has made this increasingly difficult.
Council’s priority has been to improve key school bus runs, including Collins Creek Road, Hootens Road, and Sextonville Road. To support this, additional funds were allocated to bring in an extra grader and crew dedicated to these roads, however ongoing wet weather resulted in further delays.
The good news is that grading has resumed this week on Collins Creek Road, Hootens Road and Trentys Lane. Once work on Hootens Road is finished the grading crew will move to Peacock Creek Road.
Rehabilitation of Lindsay Creek Road is continuing, while roadside slashing is being undertaken on Fawcett Plain Road, Lynches Creek Road, and Old Grafton Road. Once these roads are completed, the crews will move to Cawongla Road, Sextonville Road, Gradys Creek Road and Collins Creek Road.
Potholes are being patched on Clarence Way at Yabbra Scrub, kerb and gutter works are continuing in Koorelah Street, Bonalbo and crews are sealing pavement cracks on Clarence Way at Joes Box.
Work is continuing on flood damage repairs including:
  • Landslip remediation on Lions Road – earthworks have been completed and tidying up of the site is continuing.
  • Road repairs Lions Road – sealing works are almost complete, line marking has been delayed due to ongoing wet weather.
  • Road repairs Gradys Creek Road –overlay and drainage works are progressing with stabilising delayed due to the ongoing wet weather.
  • Landslip Iron Pot Creek Road – Council is monitoring the slip daily.
  • Landslip remediation on Forest Road – work is expected to be completed next week, weather permitting.
  • Landslip remediation on Horseshoe Creek Road – start of work delayed due to the wet weather and is now not expected to start until early July, weather permitting.
  • Landslip remediation on Hillyards Road – repairs delayed due to wet weather, with work now not expected to start until early July, weather permitting.
  • Landslip remediation Baileys Bridge Road – preliminary works have started.
  • Landslip remediation Gradys Creek Road – preliminary slope preparation works have started.
Meanwhile, Council, on behalf of Transport for NSW, is undertaking heavy patching works on the Summerland Way at Unumgar.

Kyogle Waste Facility closed Sunday, 28 June

The Kyogle Waste Facility and Tip Shop will be closed on Sunday (28 June) due to an Essential Energy planned power outage.

The waste facility will operate as normal on Saturday.

Council apologises for any inconvenience caused by the closure.

Tip Shop closed 20-21 June

The Tip Shop at the Kyogle Waste Facility will be closed on Saturday 20 June and Sunday 21 June.

Council apologises for any inconvenience this may cause.

Community priorities driving Council advocacy campaign

Kyogle Council is stepping up its campaign to secure funding from the State and Federal Governments for community identified infrastructure projects.

As part of the campaign, Council has developed a series of advocacy briefs seeking additional funding for essential priority projects such as:

  • Sealing 15km of unsealed roads every year, focusing on school bus routes;
  • Replacing all causeways with bridges or box culverts;
  • Finishing the upgrade of the Clarence Way between Sandilands and Urbenville;
  • Completing stage 2 and 3 of the Kyogle Memorial Recreation Centre;
  • Developing mountain bike trails and facilities.

Council is also lobbying the State Government to permanently take Kyogle off the list of Councils that pay the waste levy and for funds to maintain public access to Bells Bay at Toonumbar Dam.

Kyogle Council Mayor Danielle Mulholland said the advocacy campaign was grounded in community feedback.

“These priorities have been shaped by the community and what they have told us, time and time again, matter most to them – better roads, improved local facilities and increased resilience to natural disasters such as floods and fires,” Cr Mulholland said.

“We are taking that message directly to decision-makers and working hard to secure the funding needed to deliver for our residents.”

The advocacy briefs identify community concerns and the impacts infrastructure funding gaps are having on local people, while highlighting Council’s proven track record of delivering multi-million dollar projects for our funding partners.

Cr Mulholland said Council was determined to ensure the voices of people living in the Kyogle local government area were heard.

“We might be a small rural council, but we are not shy about taking our community’s case to the State and Federal governments,” she said.

“We have listened to our community and we know what they need, we have strong projects ready to go, and we have consistently demonstrated that we can deliver major infrastructure when the funding is secured.”

Works update – 11 June 2026

Council is pressing on with its planned works, despite the persistent wet weather which continues to soak the region.

The concrete deck on the new Methvens Bridge was poured last week and the crew are installing the barrier rail as rain showers allow. Council hopes to have the bridge open to traffic by the end of the week, but that will be dependent on the weather.

Once traffic can use the bridge, Council will remove the side track and install guardrail.

The new Montgomerys Bridge also is taking shape, with installation of the centre span girders scheduled for this week. Each girder measures 24.5m in length and weighs more than 29 tonnes.

The installation process is a highly coordinated operation involving Council, the transport contractor and the crane operator. Each of the pre-cast girders requires escorted transport on extendable trailers from Brisbane and the use of a 250-tonne crane to position them on the bridge.

Following installation of the girders, the crew will commence construction of the final abutment.

Piling works are progressing on the Clarks Lane footbridge, with one pile installed on the Clarks Lane side of the river.

Once all the piles on that side are completed, the piling rig will shift to the Daleys Lane side of the river.

Work is continuing on flood damage repairs including:

  • Landslip remediation on Lions Road – earthworks have been completed, with concreting and planting of native trees to be undertaken.
  • Landslip remediation on Gradys Creek Road – mostly completed, with the re-instating of the job site the last of the works to be undertaken.
  • Road repairs Lions Road – sealing works are almost complete, line marking still outstanding.
  • Road repairs Gradys Creek Road –overlay and drainage works are progressing with stabilising to happen next week if the weather allows.
  • Landslip Iron Pot Creek Road – Council is monitoring the slip daily and reinstating the road when necessary.
  • Landslip remediation on Forest Road – work on the slip is completed, however a culvert still has to be installed.
  • Landslip remediation on Horseshoe Creek Road – work to replace a pipe was scheduled to occur this week but was weather dependent.
  • Landslip remediation on Hillyards Road – repairs are due to start next week but are weather dependent.
  • Preliminary works are being carried out on a landslip on Baileys Bridge Road and a second landslip on Gradys Creek Road.

Meanwhile, Council, on behalf of Transport for NSW, is undertaking heavy patching works on the Summerland Way south of Wiangaree.

On the local roads front, a construction crew is undertaking rehabilitation works on Lindsay Creek Road and grading crews are working, when the weather allows, on Hootons Road and Collins Creek Road. Roadside slashing is happening on Fawcett Plain Road and Old Grafton Road.

Potholes are being patched on the Bruxner Highway,  while kerb and gutter works are continuing in Koorelah Street, Bonalbo.

On the Clarence Way, guardrail installation and line marking was scheduled to start at the end of this week, however the work is dependent the weather.

Budget Delivers Big Investment in the Future

Kyogle Council has adopted its 2026/2027 budget, with Mayor Cr Danielle Mulholland saying it delivers a clear commitment to strengthening essential services, supporting emerging needs, and positioning the community for the future.

“Council is laying the groundwork for the future with this budget,” Cr Mulholland said.

“Council wants to secure a future where our infrastructure keeps pace with community needs and where the Kyogle LGA continues to attract people seeking both lifestyle and opportunity.”

The $64.6 million budget was unanimously adopted by Council at its June meeting on Tuesday (9 June) and includes an allocation of $5 million over the next two years to fast track Council’s watermains replacement program to fix ongoing issues with discoloured water.

This will see Council progressively replace problematic mains, most of which are old cast iron pipes.

Council has already installed new watermains in Roxy Lane and Gardener Lane, with Bundock Lane and Bundock Street, Morphett Street and Cambell Road North (Morphett Street to Kyogle Road) and Fairy Street next on the list. Another 32 sites will be scheduled after that.

Other features of the budget adopted by Council on Tuesday include:

  • almost $10 million for roads and bridges including $2 million for the Clarence Way this year and a further $3 million in the forward estimates,
  • $1.013 million parks, gardens and village maintenance
  • $191,000 for heavy patching and resealing program in Woodenbong, Bonalbo and other villages.
  • $7 million this year and $17 million in the forward estimates to build a new sewerage treatment plant for Kyogle,
  • $1.793 million for landfill improvements and quarry rehabilitation works
  • $992,300 for community and cultural services which includes the Roxy Gallery, the Visitor Information Centre and community services
  • $187,146 in financial assistance and community donations
  • $614,285 for the library and mobile library
  • $4 million in the forward estimates for main street upgrades in the villages
  • $13.5 million in the forward estimates for Tabulam, Mallanganee and Wiangaree sewerage schemes

Don Gulley fields closed today (Thursday 11 June)

Due to the ongoing wet weather, Don Gulley Fields will be closed today (Thursday, 11 June).
This helps prevent damage to the playing surface and ensures the fields remain safe and playable for everyone once conditions improve.
Council appreciates your understanding.

Tip Shop closed 6-7 June

The Tip Shop at the Kyogle Waste Facility will be closed on Saturday 6 June and Sunday 7 June.

Council apologises for any inconvenience this may cause.

Planning a development: Help Council to Help You

Over the past eight years, Council has adopted a series of progressive initiatives to stimulate development, open up housing and industrial lots, and make it easier to do business in the Kyogle local government area.

This has included the waiver of development contributions and service changes and investing millions of dollars in infrastructure upgrades across Council’s road and bridge network.

However, all too often we see people with the very best intentions start a project before they understand if their project is legally able to proceed.

Kyogle Mayor Cr Danielle Mulholland said this can easily be avoided by contacting Council first.

“Kyogle Council encourages anyone planning a project to get in touch as early as possible to ensure the project meets requirements from the outset and can proceed without issues,”  Cr Mulholland said.

“As well as actively pursuing managed growth and delivering a record investment in infrastructure, Council works with individuals and business to help them achieve their objectives.”

Information packs for various developments from single dwellings to subdivisions are available on the Council website and staff are available to meet with people and businesses to discuss their projects and the best way to progress them.

And while Council is committed to supporting the community, it also has a responsibility to ensure statutory requirements are met. Where this is not the case, Council will take appropriate steps to follow up and address any non-compliance.

By ensuring statutory requirements are met, Council helps maintain community standards and provides a fair and consistent framework for everyone undertaking a project. This protects both applicants and the community and ensures projects are completed safely and appropriately.

Anyone wanting information about Council’s planning and community development services can search the Planning and Development pages on Council’s website or phone Council on 6632 1611.

 

Planning for disasters – Have your say

The Northern Rivers region is no stranger to disasters. It is one of Australia’s most flood-prone regions, and experiences many other natural hazards such as bush fires, storms and cyclones, heatwaves and coastal erosion. These hazards are expected to become more severe and more frequent as our climate continues to change.

The NSW Reconstruction Authority (RA) is developing the first multi hazard Disaster Adaptation Plan (DAP) in the Northern Rivers.

The Northern Rivers DAP will include actions to reduce risk from natural hazards where possible and support communities to adapt where we can’t. Some of these actions can be delivered in the short-term, while others may need further investigation and be delivered over time.

Join the conversation

Residents can learn more about disaster risk in their region and share their ideas to reduce risk either online from 5 to 30 June, or in-person at one of seven community drop-in sessions being held in the area including at:

Other sessions will be held at Murwillumbar on Monday 15 June, Ballina on Wednesday 17 June, Maclean on Thursday 18 June, Lismore on Wednesday 24 June, and Mullumbimby on Friday 26 June.

For more information, please follow this link.

Works Update – 26 May 2026

Council is pushing ahead with its works program despite the ongoing wet weather.

Work to repair the final landslip on Lions Road which occurred during the 2022 flood event is moving forward, even though the wet weather has caused some delays. Similarly, while sealing works on Lions Road are almost complete, final stabilisation works are being held up by the rain.

It’s the same story on Gradys Creek Road with overlay and stabilisation works progressing, even with delays caused by the ongoing wet.

The slip on Iron Pot Creek Road continues to be monitored daily, with some movement detected with the recent rain. Workers are back on site to keep the road open.

In other landslip repair projects:

  • Forest Road – works are progressing.
  • Horseshoe Creek Road – trees have been removed in preparation for pipe replacements.
  • Hillyards Road – mulching is in progress, with repairs expected to start in the next few weeks.

Council currently has three bridge projects on the go:

  • Methvens Bridge – crews are working on the reinforced concrete deck with a concrete pour scheduled for early next week, weather permitting.
  • Montgomerys Bridge – all pier superstructure works have been completed, with Council preparing for the first concrete abutment pour late this week, weather permitting. Once this has been completed, focus will shift to the first stage of the girder installation.
  • Clarkes Lane Footbridge – work is underway to establish platforms for the piling rig, with piling expected to start later this week, weather permitting. This will involve drilling and pouring four 1.2m diameter concrete piles, each socketed more than five meters into the underlying basalt bedrock.

Council has completed Transport for NSW funded upgrades on the Summerland Way at The Risk, while culvert replacement works are continuing just south of the NSW/Queensland border. On the Bruxner Highway at Mallanganee, crews are undertaking a culvert replacement and minor pavement rehabilitation.

On the road maintenance front, Council crews are grading Hootons Road, Sextonville Road, and Lindsay Creek Road, while roadside slashing is planned for Bentley Road and Afterlee Road.

Another maintenance grading crew will be brought on-line to work on Collins Creek Road as soon as the weather allows.

Potholes are being patched on the Bruxner Highway and Clarence Way, while Koorelah Street, Bonalbo, is being targeted for some kerb and gutter works.

Clarence Way upgrades south of Bonalbo including bridge approaches at the Bottle Creek Road section and sealing works on the Medhurst Quarry section are now completed, with line marking on hold due to the wet weather.

Works update – 12 May 2026

Work on the new Methvens Bridge on Gradys Creek Road has started now that construction of a sidetrack around the old bridge has been completed.
The bridge crew has removed the old Doolan deck from the bridge and is prepping the existing substructure ready to install new planks and girders. The new girders are expected to be delivered later this week.
The new Montgomerys Bridge on Iron Pot Creek Road is also taking shape, with work on the western headstock progressing and work on the western side abutment expected to start this week. All going to schedule and weather permitting, the new bridge should be finished by the end of August.
Work is expected to start soon on the new pedestrian bridge which will connect Clarkes Lane and Daleys Lane. The pedestrian bridge is part of a larger project that when complete will deliver a 5km loop of continuous shared pathways for pedestrians and cyclists linking Geneva to New Park.
After the pedestrian bridge is built, crews will then begin work on a 2.5-metre-wide shared path that will connect Daleys Lane and Clarkes Lane. This path will join up with existing footpaths located on Summerland Way near the football fields and Saville Street, Geneva.
The new loop will support pedestrian and cycle traffic, improving safety, accessibility, and active transport options for the community.
Other work crews are patching potholes on the Summerland Way and Bruxner Highway, grading Lindsay Creek Road after working on Hootons Road last week, and undertaking roadside slashing on Bentley Road.
Work on Summerland Way at The Risk and 1.5km south of the Queensland border is continuing, with crews preparing to complete the final seal and install guardrails at The Risk. This work is dependent on the weather. Crews working just south of the Queensland border are replacing culverts.
Meanwhile, sealing and asphalt works on the Clarence Way south of Bonalbo near Medhurst Quarry has been completed, with line marking all that is left to be done.
Repairs to the final landslip on Lions Road caused by the 2022 floods are moving ahead and are expected to be completed by early June, weather permitting.
Other repairs to the road, including stabilising work, have been delayed due to ongoing wet weather. Rehabilitation crews have moved on to Gradys Creek Road, with overlay and stabilisation works underway.
Motorists are reminded that work sites on Lions Road are under traffic control and the road is open to light traffic only.
Council continues to monitor the landslip on Iron Pot Creek Road, while work on the Forest Road landslip is progressing and repair work has started on a landslip on Horseshoe Creek Road.
Work to repair a landslip on Hillyards Road is expected to start in the next couple of weeks.

Local Heritage Program – applications now open

Conserving, managing and maintaining heritage places across our local government area can be challenging, particularly as buildings and structures age, costs increase and use of places change and evolve.
Council’s Local Heritage Program is designed to assist owners and managers of local heritage places to conserve, maintain or enhance the heritage features of their property, or upgrade or activate heritage buildings so these buildings can continue to contribute to the prosperity and liveability of our local government area.
Under the Program, Kyogle Council will fund 50% of the total cost of a local heritage project up to a maximum of $5,000. The owner or manager of a local heritage place will be responsible for funding the remaining project costs and arranging for the works to be undertaken.
Projects which can be funded under the program include:
✅ repairs, repainting and restoration of buildings;
✅ upgrading buildings and structures to meet current National Construction Code requirements;
✅ preparation of assessments and reports required to support development proposals to activate heritage places and buildings;
✅ development application fees and charges where Council approval is required for a project affecting a heritage place.
For further information about the program including eligibility criteria and how to apply, please read the Program Guidelines on Council’s website by following this link.
Council’s Planning Services team is also available to meet with applicants to discuss project eligibility and provide guidance on any planning requirements that may apply.
Applications close COB, Friday, 26 June 2026.

Potential Pesticide Application This Month

Council advises that pesticide application may be conducted this month in accordance with the Pesticide Use Notification Plan. Spraying may occur in public areas such as public parks, sports fields, road reserves, pathways,and other Council-managed spaces as required.

For further details or to view the Pesticide Use Notification Plan, please follow this link

Works update – 15 April 2026

Work crews are continuing to upgrade sections of Clarence Way.

A pavement upgrade on the Medhurst Quarry section of the road south of Bonalbo has started and will be ongoing for the next three weeks.

Another crew working on Clarence Way north of Bonalbo has finished sealing a section of the road, with line-marking still to completed.

Both jobs are expected to be finalised in May.

Meanwhile, planning work has started on an upcoming project to upgrade of another 3.4kms of the Clarence Way between Bonalbo and Urbenville. Council has received a $5 million grant through the Australian Government’s Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program to undertake the work, which will include improvements to drainage, replacement of culverts, and upgrades to the pavement and ride quality of three separate sections the road.

Grading crews are currently working on Bolans Road and Hootons Road, and roadside slashing is occurring on Kyogle, Williams and Findon Creek roads.

Pothole patching is happening on the Summerland Way and Gradys Creek Road.

The new Montgomerys Bridge on Iron Pot Creek Road is starting to take shape, with work to start soon on constructing the headstock. The expected completion date for the bridge is the end of August, weather permitting.

Preparatory works are continuing for the new Methvens Bridge on Gradys Creek Road, with construction of the side track still in progress.

Repairs to the final landslip on Lions Road caused by the 2022 floods are in progress, as are repairs to Lions Road. Lions Road was re-opened under traffic control on Tuesday.  Motorists are reminded that the Lions Road is a scenic drive, not a main road, and should not be used by caravans or other heavy traffic.

Once repairs to the final section of Lions Road are completed, the road rehabilitation crew will move on to Gradys Creek Road, with the repair sites under traffic control.

Council continues to monitor the landslip on Iron Pot Creek Road, while work on the Forest Road landslip is progressing  and repair work has started on a landslip on Horseshoe Creek Road.

Work on Summerland Way at The Risk and 1.5km south of the Queensland border is continuing.

Council wants public feedback on draft budget

A draft $64.5 million budget that provides almost $10 million for roads and bridges and another $3 million for town and village streets has been adopted by Kyogle Council for public comment.

The draft budget also includes $2 million this year and another $3 million in the forward estimates so Council can fast track its watermains replacement program in response to ongoing issues with ageing infrastructure.

Kyogle Council Mayor Cr Danielle Mulholland said the draft budget was aimed at strengthening essential services, supporting emerging needs, and positioning the community for the future.

She said Council had worked hard to ensure the draft budget was responsible while still delivering the services and projects the community needed now and into the future.

“By releasing this draft budget for public comment, we’re inviting residents to provide feedback, Cr Mulholland said.

“Their feedback is essential in shaping a final budget that reflects what matters most to our community.”

The draft budget provides $3.948 million for regional road projects including $2 million for the Clarence Way this year and a further $3 million in the forward estimates, $4.257 million for rural local roads, and $1.635 million for bridge renewals.

The draft budget also provides $7 million this year and $17 million in the forward estimates to build a new sewerage treatment plant for Kyogle.

“Council is laying the groundwork for the future with this draft budget,” Cr Mulholland said.

“Council wants to secure a future where our infrastructure keeps pace with community needs and where the Kyogle LGA continues to attract people seeking both lifestyle and opportunity.”

The draft budget also sets aside:

  • $1.793 million for landfill improvements and quarry rehabilitation works
  • $187,146 in financial assistance and community donations
  • $614,285 for the library and mobile library
  • $1.013 million parks, gardens and village maintenance
  • $946,191 for the operation of Council’s three public pools
  • $992,300 for community and cultural services which includes the Roxy Gallery, the Visitor Information Centre and community services

The draft budget includes a 4.4 percent State Government-pegged general rate increase, plus increases of 4 per cent for domestic waste charges, 7 per cent for water charges and 6 per cent for sewer charges.

The draft budget is on display for public comment until 4pm 12 May 2026. Copies of the budget can be found at Council’s administration centre at 1 Stratheden Street, Kyogle, on Council’s website here, or at Wadeville store, Woodenbong Post Office, Tabulam Post Office, Cawongla store, Mallanganee Post Office, Wiangaree Post Office, and Bonalbo Post Office.

Written submissions will be accepted until 4pm 12 May 2026 and should be sent to the General Manager, PO Box 11, Kyogle, NSW 2474 or to council@kyogle.nsw.gov.au.

Works update – 2 April 2026

The new Cedargetters Bridge on Gradys Creek Road is expected to open to traffic next week.

Once opened, the bridge crew will remove the sidetrack and complete work on the approaches.

Council’s other bridge crews are working on:

  • Methvens Bridge on Gradys Creek Road – work has started on the side track.
  • Montgomerys Bridge on Iron Pot Creek Road – work on the piers is now complete, with progress being made on the pier headstocks. Work on the concrete abutments will start after Easter.

Council’s grading and slashing crews have been active this week, working throughout the local government area.

One of the grading crews is working on Bolans Road and is expected to be finished there today. Another crew is working on Old Lawrence Road, with work there to continue until the end of next week. That grading crew will then move to Hootons Road.

Roadside slashing is occurring on Findon Creek Road and Peacock Creek Road. Fawcetts Plain Road and Tunglebung Creek Road are next to be slashed.

Repairs to the final landslip on Lions Road caused by the 2022 floods are ongoing, as are repairs to Lions Road. The work includes stabilising and sealing the road pavement. Lions Road remains closed from Murphy Standfield Bridge to the border.

Council continues to monitor the landslip on Iron Pot Creek Road, while work on the Forest Road landslip is expected to start next week. Grading on Simes Road and Forest Road is due to be completed this week,

Work on Summerland Way at The Risk and 1.5km south of the Queensland border is continuing.

On the Clarence Way, pavement work has started on the Medhurst Quarry section of the road south of Bonalbo and will continue for about five weeks. Sealing work and heavy patching is underway north of Bonalbo. It is expected to be completed, weather permitting, in May.

One-of-a-kind Mallanganee Observatory opens to the public

Mallanganee’s one-of-a-kind observatory that frames spectacular views of the constellations by night and the rolling green hills and mountain ranges of the Northern Rivers by day has opened to the public.

Situated at the top of the Richmond Range, the observatory features an armillary-like sphere built out of galvanised steel and pre-cast concrete.

The semi-enclosed design provides the perfect vantage point to take in views across the Richmond Range and beyond to the Border Ranges and Wollumbin.

At night, the dark sky and the observatory’s position on the precise latitude the centre of the Milky Way arcs directly overhead every day,  means the celestial views are breathtaking.

Kyogle Council Mayor Danielle Mulholland said the idea for the observatory had originally come from a member of the Mallanganee community and had been incorporated into the Mallanganee village master plan.

“The observatory is positioned to increase tourism to the area and cultivate Mallanganee’s standing as a destination for visitors seeking genuine nature‑based experiences, Cr Mulholland said.

“With growing interest in dark/night‑sky tourism across Australia, we are looking forward to an increase in visitor numbers.

“A tourism boost will bring real benefits not just to Mallanganee but also to its neighbouring West of the Range villages.”

The $3.34 million observatory project also included the construction of a new amenities block, upgrades to sections of Bulmers and Lookout roads, and construction of internal paths. While the observatory is now open to the public, some areas of the site have yet to be re-grassed and remained cordoned off.

Construction of the observatory was supported by a $2.067 million Regional Tourism Innovation Fund grant from the NSW Government, with Council contributing the remaining funds.

 

Lions Road update

Council is working to re-open Lions Road as soon as we possibly can, but unfortunately it won’t be in time for Easter.

It’s hoped, weather permitting, the road that will be open mid-April.

The complex work required to repair seven major landslips which occurred during the 2022 floods coupled with persistent wet weather and safety considerations have meant the road has had to remain closed longer than initial estimates.

When the road does re-open, it will be under traffic control.

Looking ahead, Council is planning further repairs later in the year to stabilise additional landslips on Lions Road caused by Cyclone Alfred. This will require a temporary re closure of the road once funding and approvals are in place.

Council will provide as much advance notice as possible to keep residents and motorists informed.

Major funding boost for Clarence Way

Council is celebrating a successful $5 million Australian Government funding application which will deliver the upgrade of another 3.4km of the Clarence Way.

Council received the $5 million through the Australian Government’s Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program, further strengthening the existing $47.2 million Clarence Way Upgrade Project between Sandilands and Urbenville.

Council will add $1.25 million to the $5 million to upgrade additional sections of the road between Bonalbo and Urbenville.

The works will involve improving drainage, replacement of culverts, widening the pavement to a consistent 7m wide bitumen sprayed seal, pavement strengthening, ride quality improvement, line marking, signage and delineation on a 2.4 km section of Clarence Way between Murphys Road and Mills Road at Bean Creek and another 1km section south of the Yabbra Scrub.

Kyogle Council Mayor Cr Danielle Mulholland described the funding announcement as incredible news and a wonderful outcome for Clarence Way communities and motorists alike.

“This is the result of some hard work and relentless lobbying, and we are excited to finally be able to put a tick in that box,” Cr Mulholland said.

“There will still be some work to do on the Clarence Way, but Council is committed to lobbying for sufficient funds to finalise the Clarence Way Project. It will provide residents with improved access and also potentially provide an alternate freight route by connecting Grafton through to Queensland.

“Congratulations to the staff and contractors who have undertaken the work on the Clarence Way to date, and a huge thank you to residents who have waited so patiently for this road to be upgraded.

“Council would like to thank the Australian Government for this funding and Member for Page, Kevin Hogan MP for making representations on our behalf.”

Bonalbo -based Councillor Tom Cooper echoed the Mayor saying it was fantastic news that  came on the back of the good work already done on Clarence Way by Council.

“Good roads lead to efficiencies in transport, and with the high cost of fuel now it’s more important than ever that our roads are as good as we can possibly make them for efficient travel,” he said.

Work on the additional 3.4km is expected to start in early 2027. Council is actively seeking further funding under the Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program to complete the upgrade of the full length of the Clarence Way.

All Council waste facilities closed over Easter

All of Council’s waste facilities – the Kyogle Landfill and village transfer stations – will be closed for the four days of Easter.
The waste facilities will be closed from Good Friday through to Easter Monday (April 3 to April 6) inclusive and will re-open as normal on Tuesday, 7 April.
Note: Council’s kerbside bin collection service will operate as normal over the holiday period.

Works update – 17 March

Council has finished another bridge!
Benns Bridge on Iron Pot Creek Road opened to traffic yesterday. Council crews are currently removing the side-track and working to rehabilitate the site. Once finished, the crew will move to Gradys Creek Road to start work on the new Methvens Bridge.
Council’s other two bridge crews are making progress on Montgomerys Bridge on Iron Pot Creek Road and Cedargetters Bridge on Gradys Creek Road.
🌉 Montgomerys Bridge — The crew is working on the eastern side headstock and will be placing the western side pier formwork this week.
🌉 Cedargetters Bridge – Steel reinforcement and formwork is being put in place on the deck this week, with Council hoping to pour the concrete deck next week, weather permitting.
Grading crews are working on Knights Road and Old Lawrence Road over the next two weeks and will then move to Dunns Road and Hootons Road. Roadside slashing is happening along Ettrick Road, Omagh Road, and Clarence Way and its sealed side roads.
Pothole patching is continuing on Clarence Way, with the Jetpatcher expected to move to Gradys Creek Road next week, weather permitting.
Repairs to landslips on Gradys Creek Road and Kyogle Road are complete, with crews now working to re-instate the sites and repair the road surfaces.
Council continues to monitor the landslip on Iron Pot Creek Road, while work on the Williams Road landslip has stopped for now due to contractor issues. The site has reopened to traffic, and works will recommence later this year.
Flood repairs to Lions Road are continuing, however the recent wet weather has delayed progress. Crews are working hard to make up for lost time, with the repairs not expected to be completed until mid-April. Lions Road remains closed from Murphy Standfield Bridge to the border.
Work to replace a flood-damaged culvert on Masons Road was due to start today and is likely to take a week to complete.
Work on Summerland Way at The Risk and 1.5km south of the Queensland border is continuing.
On the Clarence Way, Council is replacing a culvert and carrying out heavy patching north of Bonalbo and cleaning drains and replacing another culvert south of Bonalbo in the Medhurst Quarry section of the road. The funded work is expected to be completed, weather permitting, in May, with Council continuing to lobby for extra money to complete the upgrade of the entire length of the road.
Meanwhile, Council staff are taking video equipment and the roughometer out on to all roads in the local government area to measure the “roughness” of the road surfaces. The information collated is used when determining road maintenance priorities and applying for grant funding.

Works update – 5 March 2026

Council’s grading, slashing and road and bridge construction crews are all making the most of the fine weather this week.

Grading crews are working on Imesons, Rices, Richmond Range and Old Lawrence roads, while roadside slashing is happening along Kyogle, Fawcetts Plain, Sextonville and  Edenville roads as well as the Clarence Way.

Pothole patching is also happening on Clarence Way.

Council’s three bridge crews are working on:

  • Benns Bridge on Iron Pot Creek Road – The deck has been poured and the bridge approaches are now under construction. The bridge is expected to be finished at the end of next week. Once it is open to traffic, the crew will move to Gradys Creek Road to start work on the new Methvens Bridge.
  • Montgomerys Bridge on Iron Pot Creek Road – Work is progressing on capping the piles. The bridge is expected to be completed by late August.
  • Cedargetters Bridge on Gradys Creek Road – Packing beams that will accommodate the new deck have been installed, with the pre-cast girders expected to arrive on site next week. The new bridge is expected to be open to traffic at the end of April.

Repairs to landslips on Lions Road, Kyogle Road, and Gradys Creek Road are continuing with the Kyogle Road and Gradys Creek Road projects expected to be finished by the end of March.

Landslips on Lynches Creek Road and Ettrick Road have been successfully remediated.

Work to repair flood damage on Lions and Gradys Creek Roads started last month and is expected to take to the end of April to finalise.

Lions Road remains closed at the Murphy Standfield Bridge, with Council and contractors doing everything practical to re-open the road as soon as possible.

Work to widen the Summerland Way at The Risk and improve drainage and upgrade safety measures is continuing.

The Clarence Way Project is drawing to a close, with just one crew working south of Bonalbo. The funded work is expected to be completed, weather permitting, in May, with Council continuing to lobby for extra money to complete the upgrade of the entire length of the road.

Works update – 19 February 2026

Council’s bridge crews are currently working on:
  • Benns Bridge on Iron Pot Creek Road – Girders were installed last week, with the crew expected to finalise the deck formwork and steel this week ready to pour the deck next week.
  • Montgomerys Bridge on Iron Pot Creek Road – Work is continuing on the piers.
  • Cedargetters Bridge on Gradys Creek Road – The Doolan deck has been removed and headstocks are being prepared ready the installation of pre-cast girders.
Council’s grading crews are working on Ettrick Road, Hillyards/Webbs roads, Collins Creek Road, and Richmond Range Road, while roadside slashing is planned for Afterlee Road, Bentley Road, Sextonville Road, and Clarence Way.  Potholes are being patch on Omagh Road and Afterlee Road.
Landslip repairs are continuing on the Lions Road, Williams Road, Iron Pot Creek Road near Murphys Corner, Kyogle Road and Gradys Creek Road.
The remediation of landslips on Lynches Creek Road and Ettrick Road is expected to be completed by the end of February, while work to repair Gradys Creek and Lions Roads is expected to begin this week and take about two months to complete.
Lions Road remains closed at the Murphy Standfield Bridge, however it is expected to re-open at the end of March, weather permitting. It will have to close again for further landslip remediation works later in the year.
Work to widen the road, upgrade drainage, and undertake safety upgrades is continuing on the Summerland Way at The Risk. Council doing the works on behalf of Transport for NSW. The work will be ongoing for a number of months.
The Clarence Way Project is continuing with two crews working on different sections of the road south of Bonalbo. Council continues to lobby for additional funds to complete the project.

Lift the lid bin checks planned for 16-19 February

Lift the Lid bin checks will be happening across the Kyogle Local Government Area next week for green-lid FOGO bins to help our community get FOGO right and our compost clean.
The bin checks will be held:
♻️ Monday 16 February – Kyogle East
♻️ Tuesday 17 February – Geneva
♻️ Wednesday 18 February – Bonalbo Village
♻️ Thursday 19 February – Kyogle South
Doing visual checks helps identify what’s going well and where there may be confusion about what can go into the FOGO bin. The @NEWaste_NSW team will be checking and tagging bins. Those bins that are grossly contaminated will need to be taken off kerbside and the incorrect items removed before being collected, so we can ensure our compost is clean of contaminants.
It’s all about education – to reduce contamination, protect our compost, and make sure our food and garden waste is turned into something valuable, instead of going to landfill. 🌱
Here’s a quick reminder of what’s a yes and a no-go for your FOGO:
✅ YES – These can go in FOGO:
🍎 Fruit & veggie scraps
🌿 Garden clippings, leaves, grass
🍞 Bread, rice, pasta
☕ Coffee grounds & tea leaves (tea of coffee bags need to go into the red bin).
❌ NO – Keep these OUT:
🚫 Plastic bags (including ‘biodegradable’ and part-plant based bags)
🚫 Paper and cardboard
🚫 Food packaging or wrappers (even if they say compostable)
🚫 Nappies or wet wipes
🚫 Glass, metal or ceramics
🚫 Animal waste or kitty litter
This project is funded by the NSW Government through the waste levy.