Local Government Week Wrap Up

Published on 31 August 2026

Local Government Week 2026 was an excellent opportunity to celebrate Yass Valley, and shine a spotlight on some of Council's unsung heroes.

We kicked off the week with Machines in the Park. We welcomed over 120 people to the Riverbank Park Cricket Pitch on Tuesday 4 August to see Council’s big machines! 3 preschools joined in, as well as members of the public who were keen to take a look. The children had the opportunity to explore some of the diggers, tractors and trucks that build and maintain our community. The Waste crew organised a game to teach the children more about recycling, and the garbage truck display was the star of the show! The Rangers gave an informative demonstration about stray dogs and how they deal with them, as well as general pet safety and the importance of microchipping. It was a fantastic morning that was enjoyed by everyone!

   

 

On Thursday 6 August, we joined in the High School Careers Fair. It was a great chance to chat with students about career opportunities within Yass Valley Council, especially our Trainee, Apprenticeship and Cadetship Programs. It was very fitting that it slotted into Local Government Week - we're looking forward to seeing the next generation of Local Government trailblazers!

Throughout the week we shared a number of "Did you Know" facts and "Staff Spotlights" on social media. This gave the opportunity to shine a light on much of the work we do at Yass Valley Council that goes on behind the scenes - and most importantly highlight the people who do that work! The comments we received were overwhelmingly positive, and it was wonderful to see how appreciated our staff are - from our garbage truck operators to our librarians.

Finally, running throughout Local Government Week was our Photography Competition - "Living Local". Thank you to everyone who joined in by uploading photos and submitting votes. It was a wonderful opportunity to showcase and celebrate the beautiful part of the world that we call home. 

With so many stunning entries, it was hard to choose a winner. However, the public voted, all the winners have visited the Administration Building to receive their prize, and it is time for the big announcement!

So, with no further ado, the winners are....

1st Prize: Ian, Long exposure of Yass River

2nd Prize: Fran, Bowning Beyond the Mist

3rd Prize: KB, Awakening the Valley

The winners all received a Shop Yass Valley Gift Card and a framed copy of their winning image. All the photos entered into the competition can be viewed here: Living Local Photography Competition | Your Voice Counts

We all enjoyed celebrating Local Government Week, and the things that make Yass Valley special. We can't wait to do it all over again in 2027!