Clarence Valley Council is inviting residents to get involved in Local Government Week 2026 by attending community events and exploring the history of local government in the Clarence Valley.
Running from Monday 3 August to Sunday 9 August, Local Government Week highlights the vital role councils play in supporting local communities through the delivery of essential services and infrastructure.
Clarence Valley Mayor Ray Smith said the week was an opportunity for residents to learn more about the work council does every day.
“Local Government is often most noticeable when something goes wrong, but every day, councils quietly deliver the services our communities rely on,” Smith said.
“Clean drinking water, roads, bridges, parks, libraries, sporting fields, waste collection, community facilities and planning for future growth are all part of the work of local government.”
As part of the celebrations, Schaeffer House Museum in Grafton will host an exhibition from 30 July to 6 August exploring the history of local government in the Clarence Valley.
“What many people may not realise is that today’s Clarence Valley Council stands on the shoulders of 14 former councils whose commitment to their communities stretches back 167 years,” Smith said.
The exhibition features historic photographs, council records, memorabilia and artefacts tracing the evolution of local government and the people who helped shape the region.
“The exhibition running at the Schaeffer House Museum, from 30 July to 6 August, is about recognising those who came before us – the mayors who led their communities, the Councillors who gave their time to public service and the hundreds of staff who worked behind the scenes to deliver services that have improved the lives of generations of residents.”
Residents are also encouraged to attend a free community barbecue at Memorial Park, Grafton, from 12 pm on Monday, 3 August. The event offers the chance to meet council staff, ask questions and learn more about the services delivered across the Clarence Valley.
“It would be wonderful to have our community join us, meet the staff who deliver the services we all rely on every day and gain a greater understanding of the work the council does for the Clarence Valley,” Smith said.
To find out more about Local Government Week activities, visit www.clarence.nsw.gov.au.
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