Crago Mill Precinct Opening Marks New Era for Yass Valley
Published on 11 May 2026
Yass Valley Council has officially opened the Crago Mill Precinct, celebrating a milestone moment more than 20 years in the making and launching a new chapter for the Yass Valley’s civic and community life.
The opening ceremony brought together community members, local leaders, project contributors and stakeholders to mark the completion of the transformative precinct.
Mayor Jasmin Jones said the event was both a proud and reflective moment for the Yass Valley.
“This project represents decades of vision, planning and commitment,” the Mayor said.
“It is a privilege to see it come to life and to recognise the many people, past and present, who have contributed to making this precinct a reality.”
Chief Executive Officer Gayleen Burley said the precinct represents a generational investment in Yass Valley’s future.
“This is more than just a new workplace for Council staff,” Ms Burley said.
“It is a purpose-built, integrated space that brings together Council services, a state-of-the-art library, community facilities and an Emergency Operations Centre in one accessible location.”
“The facility strengthens our ability to serve the community to deliver the services that they need and enhances our capacity to respond to emergencies - something we know is critically important.”
The new library was supported by the NSW Government through the Public Library Infrastructure Grants program, which contributed $700,000 towards the delivery of the modern library space, including fit-out, shelving and a dedicated children’s area.
The precinct includes bookable meeting rooms, study spaces, arts and craft space, parent’s room as well as a fully tech-enabled conference room.
The opening also celebrated the strong community support behind the project. The Yass Valley Men’s Shed was acknowledged for crafting custom bench seating from reclaimed timber sourced from the original mill structure, while the Rotary Club of Yass and the Yass Hospital Auxiliary volunteers provided a community barbecue and morning tea for visitors.
Mayor Jones said the precinct is already being embraced by the community.
“It’s clear this space will become a focal point for Yass Valley - a place where people come together to connect, learn and work.” the Mayor said.
Proceedings commenced with a Welcome to Country and Smoking Ceremony by Aunty Wendy Brown and Bradley Bell and a blessing from Pastor Keith Todd representing the Combined Churches of Yass Valley. The official ribbon cutting ceremony involved many who had contributed to the project - including current staff, councillors past and present, local elders, community groups and local children. The ceremony marked the formal opening of the precinct, followed by tours of the new facilities, including the library, council chambers and public spaces.
Council extends its sincere thanks to all contributors, including past and present Councillors, Council staff, government partners, local organisations and the wider community for their support in bringing the Crago Mill Precinct to life.
The community is now invited to visit, explore and enjoy the new facilities. Full details of opening times and Library facilities are available online at Library services Yass Valley Council