Crago Mill Precinct Progress Update

Published on 17 July 2026

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Crago Mill Precinct Reaches Major Milestone as Stage 1 Nears Practical Completion

The Crago Mill Precinct continues to reach important milestones, with Stage 1 practical completion expected early August 2026 . While some associated external works, including Stage 1.1 (Comur Street landscaping and parking), will continue beyond this milestone, the new facility already establishing itself as an active hub for Council, community and social activities.

Since the building officially opened on 9 May 2026, the precinct has hosted a diverse range of activities and events, including NAIDOC Week celebrations, school holiday programs, community engagement sessions, Council meetings, committee and advisory committee meetings, local community group meetings, YUMA meetings, and visits from local Members of Parliament and Ministers.

Mayor Jasmin Jones said the strong community response demonstrated the importance of the new facilities. “Seeing these new buildings activated and our community embracing this space so enthusiastically is a testament that these new facilities were greatly needed and that their design was purpose driven,”

“While we celebrate these major milestones, Council is focused on finalising the remaining elements of the precinct to deliver the best possible outcome for our residents.”

Stage 1 – Practical Completion

Stage 1 practical completion is expected early August 2026, with final activities including the submission of Operating and Maintenance Manuals, Works as Executed (WAE) drawings and the rectification of any remaining defects.

Yass Valley Council Chief Executive Officer Gayleen Burley said reaching practical completion was a significant milestone for the project.

“Reaching practical completion for Stage 1 is a significant milestone for the Crago Mill Precinct project and reflects the considerable work undertaken to deliver these new civic space and community facilities,”

“Our focus is now on completing the remaining documentation, rectifying defects and progressing the Comur Street landscaping and parking works, while continuing to support the growing number of community, civic and social activities taking place within the precinct.”

Stage 1.1 – Comur Street Landscaping and Parking

The revised design for the landscaping and parking area on Comur Street is progressing well, with these works expected to be completed by the end of August 2026.

Once completed, these works will further improve the streetscape, accessibility and amenity surrounding the Crago Mill Precinct.

Stage 2 – Revised scope

Council is finalising the negative variation associated with the reduced scope of Stage 2 of the project.

The revised Stage 2 scope includes:

  • demolition of the existing administration building;
  • landscaping and construction of a dedicated yarning circle;
  • fencing and make-safe works to the historic Crago Mill heritage building;
  • complete the structural assessment and design work related to the Historic Crago Mill Building; and
  • investigate the feasibility of subdividing the proposed land area identified for the new commercial development, to potentially sell the site.

Mayor Jones said the revised approach would deliver significant financial benefits while allowing Council to complete key elements of the precinct.

Descoping Stage 2 represents a nine-million-dollar saving for ratepayers and positively impacts the Long Term Financial Plan, aligning with Council’s commitment to fiscal responsibility through our adopted Financial Sustainability Roadmap,”

“We are entering an exciting final phase for the precinct. The inclusion of a dedicated yarning circle reflects our deep respect for our local First Nations heritage, and the preservation works on the historic Crago Mill will ensure our local history remains protected.

“We appreciate the community’s patience as we navigate these final stages.”

Next Crago Mill Committee Meeting

The next Crago Mill Project Committee meeting will be held on Thursday 3 September 2026 at 4pm, providing an opportunity for the Project Committee to receive a progress report and updates about the next stage of the works program.

The Crago Mill Precinct continues to evolve as an important civic, social and community destination for Yass Valley, with strong community use since its official opening and further improvements underway.

For more information on the Crago Mill Precinct project, visit the Yass Valley Council Crago Mill Precinct project page.

 

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