Albury City Council has confirmed its 2026 Albury Awards will be combined with community festivities at Noreuil Park as part of Australia Day celebrations on 26 January 2026.
The morning session will incorporate both the Citizenship Ceremony and Albury Awards recognition, followed by an afternoon of community celebrations.
The Council says the decision follows consideration of community engagement and the prestige of the Awards. By holding a single combined event rather than two separate gatherings, Council says it can manage resources efficiently, with potential savings of approximately $30,000, while keeping the focus on celebrating the community’s heroes.
It has received a $15,000 grant from the National Australia Day Council to support the delivery of Australia Day festivities, including $5,000 dedicated to cultural activities, which are yet to be confirmed.
Mayor, Kevin Mack said the combined program was a fiscally responsible decision, while still providing a meaningful platform to recognise Albury’s outstanding residents. He said the approach reflects Council’s broader commitment to living within its means and focusing on efficiency and financial sustainability.
“Spending on projects, facilities and services for our community comes from Council’s general fund, which currently has an increased deficit of $26 million, including depreciation charges,” Mayor Mack said.
“We’ve budgeted for a reduced deficit of $10 million in the 2025/26 financial year, with the aim of achieving a balanced budget by 2027/28. Every decision counts, and combining these events is one way we can continue to deliver quality community outcomes while managing our finances responsibly.
“Holding the Albury Awards on the same day allows residents to celebrate our local heroes in a dedicated morning session, while enjoying the broader Australia Day festivities in the afternoon.”
This arrangement will apply to 2026, with plans for future years to be considered separately, the Council confirmed.
