Contents
03. Magic of Christmas 2025
04. Australia Day 2026: Reflection, Recognition and Connection
06. 50,000 Welcome the Year of the Horse in Hurstville
08. Georges River Reframed: International Day of People with Disability Art Exhibition
09. Business Spotlight: Kogarah and Hurstville: The Beating Heart of Our Local Economy
10. Community Champion: Colm Dowling
11. Councillor Kathryn Landsberry Honoured for 20 Years of Service
12. Hurstville Museum & Gallery Exhibitions & Open Day
16. Celebrating the 2025-2026 Community Grants and Micro Grants Round 1 Recipients
17. Hurstville Library Welcomes the Community Back on Library Lovers Day
18. Remembering Murray Barnett Tindale: A Life of Service and Legacy
19. Celebrating Oatley Lions’ Life-Changing Contribution to St George Hospital
20. Grant Snapshot: Food for Life – A Cookbook that Brings Community and Sustainability to the Table
22. Celebrating Georges Riverkeeper’s Impact
23. What's on
COVER IMAGE
Georges River Council’s 2026 Lunar New Year celebration at Hurstville with Lion Dance Kids performing at the official opening ceremony on 21 February 2026.
Mayor’s message
The past summer was nothing short of spectacular, and it was wonderful to see our community out and about enjoying everything Georges River has to offer.
We welcomed the festive season with our Christmas in Georges River program and Magic of Christmas event at Carss Park. It was a joy to see families and friends coming together to celebrate and share in the spirit of the season.
This connection continued into the new year with our Australia Day program. From Yarn Up: Celebrating Cultures and Understanding Australia Day to a lively Australia Day Picnic, the program brought the community together to celebrate our diversity and reflect on our shared history. I congratulate our new citizens and the recipients of the Georges River Australia Day Awards, whose contributions help shape and strengthen our community.
Community pride was on display at the Hurstville Museum & Gallery Open Day, where residents came together to celebrate the launch of three exhibitions, including the new permanent exhibition, Georges River Reflections. It was also wonderful to welcome the community back to Hurstville Library for Library Lovers’ Day, marking the reopening of this much-loved space.
Summer celebrations continued with the 23rd Lunar New Year Festival, as Forest Road and Hurstville Plaza were transformed into a vibrant showcase of culture to welcome the Year of the Horse.
My Culture in Colour: Mayor’s Art Competition returns this year, inviting primary school–aged children to celebrate meaningful cultural and festival days through their creativity.
We also held our first Public Forum in February, giving residents a meaningful opportunity to share their views ahead of Council meetings. This new approach ensures our community’s voice continues to guide and strengthen the work we do.
There’s plenty to look forward to in the months ahead, including GRYfest in April. I look forward to seeing our community continue to connect, celebrate and get involved!
Elise Borg Mayor, Georges River Council
Georges River Council acknowledges the Bidjigal people of the Eora Nation, who are the Traditional Custodians of all lands, waters and sky in the Georges River area. Council recognises Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples as an integral part of the Georges River community and values their social and cultural contributions. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples who live work and meet on these lands.
Magic of Christmas 2025!
Carss Bush Park was buzzing with festive cheer on Saturday, 6 December, as Georges River Council’s annual Magic of Christmas welcomed over 10,000 visitors.
Families were treated to a dazzling lineup of entertainment, with ARIA-award winner Conrad Sewell headlining the show and MC Jayden Rodrigues keeping the crowd engaged with lively dance parties. Children’s favourites, including The Smurfs and Gabby’s Dollhouse, brought smiles to little ones, while local talent shone on stage with performances from Georges River Voices and the St George Brass Band.
Georges River Council would like to thank major sponsors Optus and Georges Estate for their support in making the 2025 Magic of Christmas a truly memorable event.
Australia Day 2026:
Reflection, Recognition and Connection
Georges River Council marked Australia Day 2026 with a program of events that invited the community to connect, celebrate and reflect.
The program began on Saturday 17 January with Yarn Up: Celebrating Cultures and Understanding Australia Day. This free event was held in partnership with Kurranulla Aboriginal Corporation, the Indigenous Law Centre at UNSW, and the Justice and Equity Centre. The event featured cultural performances, a truth-telling exhibition, and opportunities to connect through storytelling, yarning circles, and cultural activities.
Designed by Council's Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Committee, the event provided an important space for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and allies to come together to celebrate Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures. The day also encouraged reflection on the meaning of 26 January and fostered understanding and respect across our community.
It was a day of connection and celebration, leaving everyone who attended with a deeper understanding and appreciation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.
On Monday 26 January, the community gathered to recognise five exceptional individuals at the 2026 Australia Day Awards. Each recipient has made a meaningful contribution to Georges River, demonstrating leadership, compassion and a commitment to creating positive change.
Young Citizen of the Year, Cindy Yan He is a dedicated young volunteer whose work brings people together and promotes inclusion. Through her involvement with Kai’Mia Community, Beverly Hills Girls High School, and the 233 St George Australian Army Cadet Unit, she has demonstrated a strong commitment to equality. Cindy helped develop the grant plan for the Uniting Generations Program at Kai’Mia, connecting young people to their cultures and sharing stories from Elders. She hopes to grow the program, strengthen understanding, and inspire other young people to help build a supportive and inclusive community.
Volunteer of the Year, Mei Fong Wong has spent more than 30 years volunteering across the Georges River community, guided by her belief that “if you want to go far, go together.” Since migrating to Australia in the late 1980s, she has worked closely with Council, local organisations, and volunteers to promote harmony, inclusion, and positive change. Mei Fong’s dedication to serving others and fostering connections is at the heart of everything she does. She hopes to continue strengthening collaboration across the community and encourages everyone to learn from challenges and make meaningful contributions.
Volunteer of the Year, Tony Thorpe is a long-standing community volunteer whose service has made a great difference in Georges River. As a leader of Lending A Hand at Our Lady of Fatima Peakhurst Catholic Church, he has provided practical and financial support that extends beyond the church congregation. A Lugarno resident for more than 40 years, Tony values the area’s strong community spirit. He encourages young people to join organisations where they can use their skills to help others and reminds them that giving back brings both impact and personal fulfilment.
Citizen of the Year, Marion Smith has devoted more than 40 years to serving the Georges River community. She has worked with local schools, charities, and in council roles, leading major fundraising events, supporting local students and families, and contributing to Rotary programs that benefit young people locally and overseas. A former Deputy Mayor of Hurstville City Council, Marion has championed initiatives such as the St George Life Education Caravan and served on the board of Jubilee Community Services. Known for her energy, kindness, and dedication, she continues to inspire others through her service.
Localability Citizen of the Year, Zoe Ong is an inspiring young volunteer who encourages others to get involved in community service. She contributes through Shopfront and leads by example, showing young people how volunteering can make a real difference and build life skills. Zoe studies Auslan at TAFE and hopes to become a professional Auslan interpreter and teacher’s aide for students with disabilities. Proud of Georges River’s diversity and inclusivity, she exemplifies dedication, community spirit, and the power of inspiring others to create a connected and inclusive community.
Present at the awards was the 2026 Australia Day Ambassador for Georges River, Amelia Farrugia. A versatile performer across opera, music theatre, concert performance, and recording, Amelia is also dedicated to nurturing emerging singers, inspiring the next generation of talent.
Following the awards, Council welcomed 231 proud new Australian citizens to Georges River, celebrating the pride and unity of our multicultural community.
The day concluded with the Australia Day Picnic, supported by the National Australia Day Council. Families, friends and neighbours gathered for an evening of live entertainment, food stalls and activities for all ages. The event ended with a fireworks display, offering a joyful moment of reflection on what it means to be part of the Georges River community.
Australia Day 2026 invited us to acknowledge our past, embrace our diversity and celebrate the people who make Georges River such a vibrant and welcoming place to live. Through reflection, connection and celebration, we continue to build a community where everyone feels safe, valued and included.
Image on the left: Mayor Elise Borg (L) congratulating five award recipients at the Australia Day Awards ceremony. The five outstanding members of the local community were (L-R) Zoe Ong for Localability of the Year Award, Mei Fong Wong for Volunteer of the Year Award, Cindy Yan He for Young Citizen of the Year Award, Marion Smith for Citizen of the Year Award, and Tony Thorpe for Volunteer of the Year Award. These were presented on the day by Australia Day Ambassador Amelia Farrugia (R).
Images (top to bottom):
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Aunty Barb Simms with Burrundi Theatre performers.
Uncle Dean Kelly performing a Smoking Ceremony.
The community enjoying Council’s Australia Day Picnic.
50,000 Welcome the Year of the Horse in Hurstville
Hurstville came alive as the community gathered to celebrate the 23rd Annual Lunar New Year Festival on Saturday 21 February 2026. More than 50,000 people filled Forest Road and Hurstville Plaza, enjoying a full day of colour, culture and celebration to welcome the Year of the Horse.
The festival precinct was buzzing from morning to night with vibrant Lion Dance performances, roaming entertainers, and a bustling mix of street food and market stalls. The main stage at Hurstville Plaza showcased an exciting lineup of local performers, reflecting the creativity and cultural diversity of the Georges River community.
In the lead up to the event, visitors were treated to a special experience at Westfield Hurstville, where local Chinese Australian artist Bryan Mew painted his mural, Kumquat Blessings & The Fire Horse, live in centre. Bryan, who grew up in Hurstville, brought his contemporary calligraphic style and personal connection to Lunar New Year into the artwork. The completed mural was proudly displayed at the festival, offering a meaningful creative tribute to the Year of the Horse.
Funding for this project was provided by the NSW Government in association with Georges River Council. Council would like to thank Major Sponsors, Westfield Hurstville, NRMA Small Business Insurance, Chemist Warehouse Hurstville, Asian Inspirations, and Club Central Hurstville. We also extend our gratitude to our Event Sponsors, SBS, Optus, and VJB Group for helping make this event possible.
The 23rd Lunar New Year Festival was a joyful celebration of heritage, community and connection. We thank everyone who joined us and look forward to welcoming you back in 2027.
Georges River Reframed: International Day of People with Disability Art Exhibition
Art came alive in Georges River this summer after Council proudly hosted Georges River Reframed: International Day of People with Disability Art Exhibition at the Clive James Library and Service Centre. The exhibition brought together an inspiring collection of works by talented local artists, creating a vibrant space for creativity and connection.
Visitors explored pieces by Sulee Hwang, Daniel Diaz, Colm Dowling, Lucy O’Loughlin, Angela Iliadis, Marlene Weaver, Don Kibble, Keria Kelly, Elenor Vo, Toby Chan, and Victoria Quach. Each artwork offered a unique perspective, showcasing a rich variety of mediums and styles that celebrated diversity and lived experience.
One standout piece, Splashing Through by Colm Dowling, was selected for inclusion in Council’s upcoming Disability Inclusion Action Plan 2026–2030, a testament to the power of art in shaping inclusive communities.
The exhibition was more than just a display of talent, it was a reminder of the creativity and resilience within our community. It encouraged everyone to pause, reflect, and appreciate the voices and stories behind each work. Importantly, it celebrated the contributions of people with disability and highlighted the vital role they play in enriching the cultural life of Georges River.
Although the exhibition has now concluded, you can still enjoy the experience from home.
Take a virtual tour of the exhibition here: Georges River Reframed: International Day of People with Disability Art Exhibition | Virtual Tour.
Images (top to bottom): 1. Georges River Reframed artists Daniel Diaz, Colm Dowling, Toby Chan, Sulee Hwang, Marlene Weaver, Don Kibble and Councillor Natalie Mort. 2. Artworks by Daniel Diaz. 3. Artworks by members of the Recreation Sports and Aquatics Club (RSAC) Art and Craft Club.
Business Spotlight: Kogarah and Hurstville – The Beating Heart of Our Local Economy
Kogarah and Hurstville are the two identified Strategic Centres in the Georges River Local Government Area. These central business districts support local jobs, services and everyday life.
Kogarah is known across Sydney for its strong health and education services. It has a large group of hospitals, medical specialists and training facilities. St George Hospital provides over 3,000 jobs, and St George Private Hospital provides around 1,000. Many people visit Kogarah for healthcare, study or work. This helps local cafés, shops and small businesses. Kogarah is near major train and bus links, and future transport improvements will make it even easier for people to move around.
Hurstville is one of the busiest shopping and business areas in southern Sydney. It includes Forest Road, Westfield and an
important train and bus interchange. Hurstville has long provided many jobs in retail, hospitality and business services. It continues to grow with new developments and upgrades. Council’s plans aim to make Hurstville safer, greener and easier to walk around, supporting both daytime and night time activity.
Together, Kogarah and Hurstville “punch above their weight” because they provide most of the jobs in the Georges River area. They attract large numbers of workers, shoppers, students and visitors. Council is committed to helping both strategic centres stay lively, welcoming and easy to access. Their continued growth brings benefits for everyone, including better transport options, stronger local businesses and more job opportunities close to home.
Council is now preparing a new Economic Development Strategy, which will guide how we support these centres and grow our local economy into the future.
Community Champion: Colm Dowling
Splashing Through by Colm Dowling has been selected for inclusion in Council’s upcoming Disability Inclusion Action Plan 2026–2030. Born in Charleville, Ireland and now based in Sydney, Colm is a multidisciplinary artist working across painting, ceramics, photography, film, and design.
What is your connection to Georges River?
I’ve received support from a number of people in Georges River, including Oscar Lederman, through Southeastern Sydney LHD, Mission Australia, and other mental health networks. I connect with these groups regularly and have been involved in a number of collaborative art and photography programs, like portrait shoots of local mental health support clients. These programs were a great help in getting out there, engaging with community art groups, and creating my own work.
Can you tell us about your artwork Splashing Through and what inspired you to create it?
Splashing Through is about how I was feeling after some of the hardest days I’ve had, but with the help and support of many people in the community, coming out on the other side. I’m happier, more together and focusing on my art. This piece was something of an emotional snapshot of my mental state – how I felt at that moment, connecting through my art and working things out.
Can you share some details about your artmaking process?
I just get started on something, and once I become engaged with an idea or element, I expand and develop it. For me, the main thing is to practice every day. It’s a habit I’ve maintained for a few years, and it really benefits my mental health because I’m constantly engaged. Some pieces take longer, others like Splashing Through I work on quite quickly, but the main thing is just to keep at it.
What influences your artistic style?
When I was younger, I worked as a model in the fashion scene, which introduced me to a lot of artistic worlds. I started in photography. More recently, I re-engaged with the art world through the mental health system and support from groups like Georges River Council. Over the last few years, I’ve been developing my style in painting and ceramics.
What do you hope people feel or think about when they see Splashing Through?
I hope it has an impact and really captures the viewer. The colours are meant to resonate emotionally, and from what I’ve seen, people do find it engaging, which is really pleasing.
How do you feel about Splashing Through being selected for inclusion in Council’s Disability Inclusion Action Plan 2026–2030?
It’s a huge compliment to my skills and a real validation of the work I’ve been putting in. Recognition like this is a major benefit going forward and motivates me to keep sharing my work.
What’s next for you creatively, and are there any upcoming projects you’re excited about?
I’m studying a Fine Arts degree at the University of New South Wales, which I’m really enjoying.
I have some ceramics that will be displayed at the Art Gallery of NSW and I’m very excited about it. I also have a series of paintings and ceramics up for sale at the Ozanam Learning Centre.
I’m also doing some acting with Milk Crate Theatre, and we actually won a prize for a short noir film we made together, which was really fun. I’m just excited to keep creating and exploring different ideas.
Do you know of someone who is a Community Champion?
We’re on the hunt to feature our next community hero, someone who has positively impacted the Georges River community. If this sounds like you or someone you know, please email media@georgesriver.nsw.gov.au
YOUR COUNCIL
Councillor Kathryn Landsberry Honoured for 20 Years of Service
In November 2025, Georges River Councillor Kathryn Landsberry was recognised for two decades of dedicated service to local government, receiving a Certificate of Service at the 2025 Local Government NSW (LGNSW) Annual Conference in Penrith.
The award was presented by LGNSW President Phyllis Miller, acknowledging Councillor Landsberry’s outstanding contribution to the Georges River community.
A Career of Leadership and Service
Councillor Landsberry has held many leadership roles over her 20 years. She was Georges River Council’s first Deputy Mayor in 2017, serving again in 2021 and 2022–2023. She currently chairs the Community and Culture Committee and is a member of the Sports Advisory Committee.
Her local government journey began at Kogarah Municipal Council in 2004, where she also served as Deputy Mayor from 2007 to 2008.
One of her most passionate efforts has been the fight to rebuild Carss Park Pool at its original location after its closure in 2019. Thanks to her persistence, the NSW Government is now preparing to seek tenders for the rebuild project.
A Connection to Place
Councillor Landsberry’s connection to Georges River is deeply personal. She grew up in Blakehurst, has lived in the Georges River area for most of her life, and raised her family locally. Over the years, she has maintained strong relationships with residents, sporting clubs and community groups. These connections continue to shape her understanding of local priorities and guide her approach to community leadership.
Celebrating Quiet Achievements
Reflecting on her career, Councillor Landsberry said her proudest moments are often the quiet ones: helping a resident, achieving a positive outcome, and making a difference in everyday lives.
“I’ve always tried to approach everything with integrity – not always what’s popular, but what’s right.”
She also highlighted the vital role of councils in shaping communities, “People often think councils are just about potholes, rubbish and development applications, but it’s so much more. We deliver services that touch everyday lives including libraries, childcare, parks and open spaces, waste collection, pools, footpaths, stormwater, trees, community events and more.”
“Councils also provide diverse job opportunities and employ many local people, which makes them unique and deeply connected to the communities they serve. We achieve so much more when we work together, collaboratively, to get outcomes that matter.”
A Lasting Legacy
As Councillor Landsberry continues her work, her legacy of integrity, persistence and community-focused leadership stands as a powerful reminder of the impact local government can have on everyday lives.
Hurstville Museum & Gallery
Exhibitions & Open Day
Snakes and mirrors
Petrina Hicks’ exhibition Snakes and mirrors invites visitors into a world of bold, metaphorical photography that explores the contemporary female experience. Large-scale images blend mythology, fables, and art history, often pairing women with animals in compositions permeated with magical realism. These works represent aspects of psyche and identity, alluding to the complexity of female identity and the sentience of animals.
The photographs are rich in symbolism, featuring the misunderstood snake, the fertile egg, and the clever parrot. Though the images appear calm and still, the animals inhabit personal space and evoke curiosity, appearing almost alive. Hicks’ work invites viewers into a world of quiet wonder and vast possibility.
This touring exhibition from the Museum of Australian Photography (MAPh) is curated by Anouska Phizacklea, MAPh Director, and supported by the City of Monash, Creative Victoria, and the MAPh Foundation.
Snakes and mirrors is on display at Hurstville Museum & Gallery until 19 April 2026. Entry is free and open to all ages.
For more information, visit Hurstville Museum & Gallery Petrina Hicks | Snakes and mirrors webpage
Georges River Reflections
Georges River Reflections is the refreshed permanent exhibition at Hurstville Museum & Gallery, celebrating the diverse histories and evolving communities of the Georges River region.
The exhibition highlights the lived experiences of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and multicultural communities, with a focus on truth telling and the shared stories that shape the area today.
Community voices were central to developing the exhibition. Residents contributed through consultations, and Council’s Advisory Committees, including the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Advisory Committee, provided guidance.
Visitors can explore stories, art, and objects that reflect the cultural diversity of the region, including two films: one showcasing migration experiences from local multicultural communities, and another sharing insights from Aboriginal Elders and community members. Interactive displays throughout the exhibition encourage reflection and connection, making it accessible and engaging for all ages.
The exhibition was proudly funded by the NSW Government through the NSW Social Cohesion Grants for Local Government.
Georges River Reflections is on display at Hurstville Museum & Gallery. Entry is free, and the exhibition is suitable for all ages.
For more information, visit Hurstville Museum & Gallery Exhibitions
Dragon’s Lair Gallery | Bryan Mew
From 17 January to 22 February 2026, the Dragon’s Lair Gallery at Hurstville Museum & Gallery hosted an exhibition by ChineseAustralian contemporary calligraphic artist Bryan Mew.
Mew’s gestural practice explored identity through movement, language, and cultural memory. By modernising traditional
calligraphy and the ancient roots of the Chinese pictographic language through new interpretations, his work reflected how culture is carried, reshaped, and revived across generations.
Hurstville Museum & Gallery Open Day
Hurstville Museum & Gallery welcomed the community on Saturday 31 January 2026 for a lively Open Day celebrating its refreshed permanent exhibition, Georges River Reflections, main gallery exhibition, Petrina Hicks | Snakes and mirrors and local talent Bryan Mew’s exhibition in the Dragon’s Lair Gallery.
The day celebrated the rich diversity, creativity, and shared stories of the Georges River community.
The morning began with a Welcome to Country by Aunty Barb Simms and a Smoking Ceremony led by Uncle Dean Kelly. The exhibitions were officially opened by the Mayor of Georges River Council, Councillor Elise Borg, who spoke about the importance of Hurstville Museum & Gallery’s role in the community. Hurstville’s Fiestaville Multicultural choir performed filling the gallery with music and voices from across Georges River and creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
NSW Social Cohesion Grants for Local Government Grant Program Manager Charlton Wun also attended the Open Day, delivering remarks that highlighted the importance of cultural engagement and the value of local stories.
Visitors enjoyed a wide range of hands-on activities throughout the day. Families met Australian wildlife up close with Raptor Reptiles, learning about habitats and conservation from experienced educators. This interactive experience echoed the themes of Snakes and mirrors
Kamilaroi artist Amy Lea Hill-Trindall led a weaving workshop, guiding visitors of all ages in creating ring-woven pieces. Additional activities, including drop-in craft, interactive exhibition elements, a coffee cart, and a photo station, ensured a fun and engaging day for the whole family.
Georges River Reflections was proudly funded by the NSW Government through the NSW Social Cohesion Grants for Local Government.
Visit Hurstville Museum & Gallery to explore these exhibitions and experience the rich stories and creativity of Georges River.
For more information, visit the Hurstville Museum & Gallery Exhibitions webpage
Opposite page image: Exhibition installation, Georges River Reflections
Images (top to bottom):
1. Chinese-Australian contemporary calligraphic artist, Bryan Mew Photo credit George Chan.
2. Raptor Reptiles up close experience with Australian wildlife
3. (Left to Right - Row 1) Councillor Matthew Allison, Amy Lea Hill-Trindall, Uncle Dean Kelly, Aunty Barb Simms, Mayor Elise Borg, Councillor Ben Wang, Charlton Wun, Jess Leonard, Justin Yeomans; (Left to Right - Row 2) Jyles Reynolds, Marsha Canning, Madeleine Russo, Laura Martinez, Alexandra Malcolm
4. Drop-in weaving activity with Amy Lea Hill-Trindall
Summer School Holidays in Georges River
Georges River was buzzing this summer with a variety of activities for kids and teens to enjoy over the school holidays
Families kicked off the break with festive movie marathons, including Home Alone and The Santa Clause trilogy, spreading holiday cheer for all ages.
January brought even more excitement, with children stepping into the world of forensic science. Young detectives learned real techniques like fingerprinting, DNA analysis, and facial reconstruction to solve a library crime in a hands-on workshop led by Fizzics Education.
Creative minds were also busy designing and personalising their own canvas tote bags, perfect for carrying favourite books back to school.
Teens joined a Pokémon-themed D&D adventure, choosing their starter Pokémon and working together to foil Team Rocket’s plans in an action-packed game.
Music lovers travelled the globe through drumming workshops with Drum Beats, discovering rhythms from Asia, Africa, the Pacific, and the Middle East.
While little artists let their creativity roar in the dinosaur-themed art program D is for Dinosaurs, experimenting with materials and techniques in a fun, supportive environment.
From creative projects and immersive gamSes to music and science, Georges River offered a summer full of imagination and fun for children of all ages.
For information about Autumn school holidays, visit Council’s What’s On webpage
The Culture in Colour: Mayoral Art Competition
Brighten our community with your creativity! The Culture in Colour: Mayoral Art Competition is back, giving primary school children across Georges River the chance to celebrate the cultural and festival days that mean the most to them.
Winning artworks will light up posters, flyers, and digital promotions throughout the year, with all entries showcased in a special exhibition at Hurstville Library this June. At the exhibition, winners will be presented with a certificate and a $50 voucher for art supplies.
For more information, including how to submit an entry, visit Council’s Culture in Colour: Mayoral Art Competition webpage
Send Help: Filmed in Carss Bush Park
Send Help directed by Sam Raimi brings global filmmaking to the heart of our community. While most of the film was based in Sydney’s Disney Studios at Moore Park as well as Thailand’s beaches, a portion of the movie’s close-up jungle scenes were filmed in Carss Bush Park.
The production team worked closely with Council’s arborists and staff to ensure that the native bush was protected. Some temporary greenery was planted to capture the movie’s tropical scenery. Once filming wrapped, the team fully restored the bushland to its original condition.
Wear the Change: Young People Embrace Sustainable Fashion at Kirrawee Library+
On Friday 30 January 2026, Kirrawee Library+ hosted Wear the Change, a youth-focused sustainability event presented by Georges River Council in partnership with Sutherland Shire Council. The afternoon was packed with music, food, hands-on workshops, and a clothes swap, giving pre-loved items a second life.
Sustainability was at the heart of the event. Attendees rolled up their sleeves to repair and upcycle clothing, discovered creative ways to restyle pre-loved pieces, and explored digitising their wardrobes to reduce overconsumption.
Through racks of swapped clothing and interactive workshops, Wear the Change showed that caring for the planet can be stylish, fun, and accessible.
Young people also had the chance to engage with local sustainability experts and connect with like-minded peers, exploring how collective action can create real environmental impact.
The event celebrated youth leadership in sustainability, demonstrating that everyday choices - repairing, reusing, and restyling clothing - can add up to meaningful climate-positive change.
Wear the Change is part of Council’s commitment to promoting a circular economy and inspiring sustainable living.
Curious about sustainability? Visit Council’s Sustainability webpage for helpful tips and resources.
Celebrating the 2025-2026 Community Grants and Micro Grants Round 1 Recipients
This February, Georges River Council hosted the 2025-2026 Community Grants and Micro Grants Round 1 Presentation Evening at Mortdale Community Centre.
The event celebrated 16 residents and organisations, who collectively received $148,962 in funding to bring their projects to life.
Each recipient demonstrated a remarkable commitment to supporting our community and creating meaningful social impact across the Georges River area.
The diversity of projects funded in this round reflects the unique needs of the Georges River community. These initiatives include a musical soiree, a therapeutic small group based around the roleplaying game Dungeons and Dragons and a senior’s wellbeing and oral history project. These projects will provide inclusion and performance opportunities for mothers and women, community connection and safe therapeutic spaces for young people, and allow seniors to record and reflect on their unique cultural experiences, improving their sense of belonging in the community.
The evening began with an orientation workshop, giving recipients the opportunity to network, exchange ideas, learn about support available from Council and prepare for the exciting work ahead.
This was followed by a formal presentation ceremony, where Mayor Elise Borg, Councillor Matthew Allison, Councillor Natalie Mort and Councillor Ben Wang presented each grant and congratulated the recipients. A performance from Southern Sydney Connection – part of the Southern Sydney Folk Club, recipients of a Community Grant for a P.A. System - closed out the evening.
We can’t wait to see these innovative projects come to life and build a stronger, more connected Georges River community.
To find out more about Council’s Community Grants and Micro Grants visit Grants and Sponsorship on Council’s website.
Hurstville Library Welcomes the Community Back on Library Lovers Day
On Saturday, 14 February 2026, Hurstville Library reopened its doors in grand style to mark Library Lovers Day.
After a temporary closure during December and January for essential fire system upgrades, the library returned with a day packed full of excitement, inviting visitors to rediscover every corner of the space.
Families and friends explored interactive experiences, stepping into virtual worlds through VR, experimenting with green screen technology, recording sounds, and even learning how to DJ.
Children and parents alike enjoyed Storytimes, scavenger hunts, and an escape room challenge, while creative hands were busy making bookmarks, badges, and Lego creations.
The new Digitisation Station drew plenty of interest, showing how treasured memories from VHS tapes, cassette recordings and film photographs can be preserved and shared for years to come.
Art lovers gathered for the unveiling of a striking new public artwork, ‘A playground of curiosity’, while the Summer Photo Bingo exhibition added a playful twist with visitors casting their votes in the People’s Choice award.
There were even prizes and giveaways throughout the day!
Library Lovers Day was a joyful reminder of the many ways libraries bring people together. With five libraries across Georges River offering programs year-round, there’s always something new to discover.
Visit one of our locations:
• Hurstville Library
• South Hurstville Library
• Clive James Library and Service Centre, Kogarah
• Oatley Library
• Penshurst Library
For more information, visit Council’s Libraries Webpage
Above: Storytimes were held in recognition of Library Lovers Day, highlighting the importance of early literacy.
Bottom: Library Lovers Day featured virtual reality sessions that highlighted the library’s commitment to digital learning and innovation.
Remembering Murray Barnett Tindale: A Life of Service and Legacy
Murray Barnett Tindale’s extraordinary life bridged continents, cultures, and defining moments of the twentieth century.
Born on 31 March 1902 in Perth, Western Australia, he spent much of his childhood in Tokyo, where his father worked in a Salvation Army mission. From 1907 to 1915, young Murray attended the Tokyo Foreign Grammar School and became fluent in Japanese, a skill that would later shape his distinguished military career.
Returning to Australia, Tindale studied in Perth and later Adelaide before completing a course in Sheep and Wool at Sydney Technical College. For nearly two decades, he worked across New South Wales and Queensland as a wool and sheep expert, gaining a reputation for his technical knowledge and adaptability.
With the outbreak of the Second World War, Tindale volunteered for the Army where he later joined the Intelligence Corps and the Allied Translator and Interrogation Section (ATIS), serving as a Japanese linguist in New Guinea and the Philippines. Attached to the U.S. Army’s 158th Regimental Combat Team during the Luzon campaign, which helped pave the way for the liberation of the Philippines. In 1948, President Harry S. Truman awarded Tindale the United States Medal of Freedom, one of the highest honours for civilian service.
After the war, Tindale continued his service with the British Commonwealth Occupation Force in Japan. Rising to the rank of Major, he worked as an interpreter and liaison officer, assisted with the war crimes trials in Japan that helped establish the foundations of modern international law. His final posting was with the Combined Services Detailed Interrogation Centre, a joint British intelligence unit, before his discharge in 1947. He later returned to Japan in the 1950s as a representative of Australian wool firms, strengthening trade ties between the two nations.
Settling in the St George area, Tindale kept a collection of documents, photographs, and correspondence from his years of service. Following his passing in 1982, these materials were generously donated to Georges River Libraries, forming the Murray Barnett Tindale Collection. Comprising more than 110 items, including court proceedings, military publications, and personal papers, the collection has been identified as being of national significance. Recently, it was cleaned and rehoused to ensure its preservation for future generations. This is part of a larger project from Georges River Libraries to better maintain our Community History collections and make them more accessible.
Murray Barnett Tindale’s story is one of courage, integrity, and service. His legacy reminds us of the power of language, the importance of cultural bridges, and the value of documenting for future generations. To view the Murray Barnett Tindale Collection, visit the Georges River Libraries webpage
Celebrating Oatley Lions’ Life-Changing Contribution to St George Hospital YOUR NEIGHBOURHOOD
We are proud to celebrate and thank the Oatley Lions Club for their incredible generosity and commitment to our community.
Through an outstanding year of fundraising and partnerships, the Oatley Lions have donated a state-of-the-art Voluson Signature 20 ultrasound machine to St George Hospital. This is an achievement that will make a lasting difference for local families.
This advanced equipment will enhance maternal and foetal care, allowing closer monitoring of babies in the womb, early detection of potential complications, and improved birth planning for the best possible outcomes. Importantly, it means families in our region can access specialised scans without the need for long-distance travel.
The success of this project was made possible thanks to the Australian Lions Foundation, the Walter Richard Salmon Foundation, Oatley Hotel, Club Rivers, the Nadia & Alf Taylor Foundation, and the Oatley Lions Annual Charity Golf Day. Members of the Oatley Lions Club and their partners were recently welcomed to St George Hospital for a special thankyou morning tea, where they saw the new equipment in action.
"We are incredibly grateful for the ongoing support from our partners and the community. This donation reflects our commitment to serving the local area and improving health outcomes for mothers, babies, and families in the St George region,” said Richard Sheahan, President of the Oatley Lions Club.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Oatley Lions Club and all involved for helping to change lives in our community.
Images provided by Oatley Lions
Grant Snapshot: Food for Life – A Cookbook that Brings Community and Sustainability to the Table
In the heart of Peakhurst, Georges River Life Care has been quietly transforming lives since 2007. From providing emergency relief and legal support to creative programs for children, Life Care is more than a service, it’s a place where community, care, and connection come together.
Their latest initiative, Food for Life, is a cookbook that perfectly captures that spirit. Supported by a Georges River Council Community Grant, the cookbook grew from Life Care’s Community Relief Program, which provides weekly food hampers to families in need.
The program offers two types of hampers: pantry hampers with everyday staples such as pasta, rice, long-life milk, and tinned goods, and fresh food hampers featuring seasonal fruit and vegetables rescued from local Woolworths stores in Mortdale and Riverwood.
These hampers support more than 670 households each year. Over time, collection days became about more than just picking up groceries. Families and individuals often stay for a free baristamade coffee, chatting with volunteers and
catching up with others before heading home. Those small moments of connection planted the seed for Food for Life
“Food for Life is about connection and sustainability,” Georges River Life Care CEO Karen Power explains. “We’re showing people how rescued food can be transformed into meals that nourish both the body and the community.”
The Food for Life cookbook was created through five hands-on workshops that brought together participants from 18 different cultural backgrounds, including Greek, Chinese, Italian, Lebanese, Egyptian, Thai, and Indian communities.
“Food for Life reflects the diversity of Georges River. It shows how many different cultures call this place home, and how much we can learn from each other,” Karen says.
Using ingredients rescued through the hamper program, participants cooked side by side, shared meals, and swapped stories. “We wanted to capture not just the recipes, but the stories, the memories, and the sentiment behind them,” Karen says.
“There were so many conversations about food and culture. One participant taught us how to make pork buns, sharing recipes passed down from many generations.”
“Moments like that show exactly why this project matters.” Karen added.
Food for Life is much more than a collection of recipes. Each page celebrates resilience, cultural heritage, and sustainability, showing families how to repurpose rescued food into nourishing, delicious meals.
It also encourages us to explore cultural dishes we might not typically try, inviting us to embrace new flavours and traditions from across the globe, and in doing so, bringing our community even closer together.
All profits from Food for Life go back into Life Care’s Community Relief Program, supporting the ongoing distribution of over 5,000 hampers each year.
With plans to continue workshops, involve school children, and capture even more recipes, Food for Life is a reminder that food can connect us all.
For more information about Life Care and the Food for Life project, visit www.grlc.org.au/life-care
Above: Karen Power, Food For Life
Bottom: Staff, volunteers and community members at Life Care. Credit: Alison Dye
Kogarah Community Services turns 50
In 2025, Kogarah Community Services (KCS) proudly celebrated 50 years of supporting the Georges River community. Founded in 1975, the not for profit organisation has grown alongside the community, evolving its services to meet changing needs while remaining grounded in connection and care.
“At KCS, our foundation is community engagement,” says CEO Marisa Turcinskis. “Sometimes the biggest needs aren’t loudly announced. Loneliness, stress, or disconnection can be quiet. Our programs often address those needs simply by bringing people together.”
That belief has shaped KCS for five decades. Today, the organisation supports people at every stage of life, helping residents stay connected to their wider community.
For older residents, aged care services are available through the Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) and Support at Home (SaH) packages. “For many people, staying at home means staying connected to neighbours, routines and independence,” Marisa says. “Our role is to support that in a way that respects dignity and choice.” Families are also supported through a range of children’s services, including before and after school care and vacation care programs.
The heart of KCS is community engagement, which continues to be among
its most loved and well attended programs. One standout is the intergenerational program, which brings together participants aged from 0 to 99+ for a range of activities, such as yoga, Zumba and digital technology sessions. “It encourages people to come along to something fun and engaging,” Marisa reflects. “You see these kids empowering older people with technology, while older participants share their stories and experiences in return.”
KCS celebrated its 50th anniversary in a way that reflects its values – with the community. The milestone was marked as part of the annual Community Christmas Party, bringing together long time participants, new families and people reconnecting with KCS after many years.
“That’s when the impact really becomes visible,” Marisa says. “When someone comes back years later and tells you how much KCS meant to them, that’s incredibly moving.”
As KCS looks ahead, the focus remains on strengthening connections across the Georges River community. Thoughtful growth, sustainability and listening closely to local needs will guide the next chapter. “We’re always asking how we can best show up for our community,” Marisa says. “That means growing carefully and staying true to who we are.”
Community members are encouraged to be part of that story in ways big and small, by attending programs, checking in on neighbours or reaching out when someone needs support. “Connection starts with noticing each other,” Marisa says. “Looking out for one another is how communities stay strong.”
For more information, visit Kogarah Community Services website
Images top to bottom:
1. Community members celebrate 50 years of KCS
2. (L-R) Shelley Ross Previous KCS CEO from 19992023 & Marisa Turcinskis current CEO
3. (L-R) Marisa Turcinskis CEO, Ash Ambihaipahar Member for Barton & Tina Tung KCS Board Member
Celebrating Georges Riverkeeper’s Impact
The Georges River is at the heart of our community, a place where we walk, paddle, fish, and connect with nature. Protecting and caring for this vital waterway is a shared responsibility, and Georges Riverkeeper has been leading this effort since 1979.
Georges Riverkeeper is funded and supported by Sydney Water and the seven Member Councils of the Georges River catchment, including Georges River Council.
In 2024/25, Georges Riverkeeper achieved outstanding results in restoring and protecting the river. Nearly 7,000 large bags of litter were collected across 280 sites, keeping more than 110 kilograms of rubbish out of our waterways, including over 5 kilograms removed within the Georges River Council area. This is the highest volume of litter collected in recent years.
To address this, Georges Riverkeeper has developed a Litter Prevention Roadmap to guide action over the next five years. Supported by monitoring and on-water inspections, this roadmap targets problem areas and helps stop pollution at its source.
These achievements are a testament to the dedication of Georges Riverkeeper volunteers and community members. Thanks to their efforts, the Georges River is cleaner, healthier, and a place we can continue to enjoy.
Georges River Council thanks Georges Riverkeeper and all volunteers for their incredible work.
Want to help care for the Georges River? Visit Georges Riverkeeper Help The River webpage
Main image: Litter Prevention Tour, L-R, Kirsten, Phuong, Lydia, Nell, Felipe, Georges Riverkeeper team
Top right image: Georges Riverkeeper Clean Up Lugarno 2025
Bottom right image: Felipe Moretto, Georges Riverkeeper, coordinates the Catchment Actions Program including litter collection crews
EVENTS What's on in Georges River
Event dates and details may change. Scan the QR code or visit the What’s On page on Council's website for updates and booking information.
28 FEBRUARY – 29 MARCH 2026
BEDTIME STORIES
Bedtime Stories is a curated exhibition by Yolanda and Mercedes Vukovich, sisters and multidisciplinary artists based in Hurstville. The exhibition explores the foundational experience of girlhood. It focusses on the idea of dreaming and creating within the bedroom, a space that serves as every young artist’s first studio. The works in the collection explore this creative act and the diverse nature of femininity. It features work from Queer and culturally diverse artists.
Dragon’s Lair Gallery exhibition
4 APRIL TO 17 MAY 2026 (STILL) LOSING THE WAR ON NATURE
Reg Mombassa and Glenn Smith are artists who have been collaborating since their time working with iconic Australian brand Mambo. The two artists fuse their lino print making and digital practices into shared works signed ‘GReg’. Their exhibition, which runs from 4 April to 17 May, also highlights their individual approaches and recent creations. The works celebrate their shared love of music and their passion for making.
Dragon’s Lair Gallery exhibition
UNTIL 31 MAY 2026
DISCOUNTED DESEXING PROGRAM
Georges River Council is proud to support responsible pet ownership through our Subsidised Desexing Program, now available to eligible residents.
Sydney Dogs and Cats Home, Strathfield South
16 – 26 APRIL 2026
GRYFEST - GEORGES RIVER YOUTH FESTIVAL
Celebrate Youth Week 2026 from 16–26 April with a jam-packed lineup of free events, epic music, and fun activities designed by young people, for young people!
Battle of the Beats 2026 is back on Friday 17 April – five fresh acts, amazing prizes, and your chance to see local talent take the stage!
Plus don’t miss the Outdoor Cinema at Hurstville Plaza where families can dive into activities you won’t find anywhere else in Georges River.
Hurstville Entertainment Centre MacMahon Street, Hurstville
18 APRIL – 18 MAY 2026
AUSTRALIAN HERITAGE FESTIVAL
Council is running a series of events to celebrate Australian Heritage Festival including an exhibition, media lab and more. This year’s theme is Change, inviting communities across the country to reflect on how history has shaped us, and how we, in turn, continue to shape history.
1 MAY – 30 AUGUST 2026
WOVEN FROM A HUNDRED FLOWERS
Hurstville Museum & Gallery’s newest exhibition, Woven from a Hundred Flowers, highlights the Nepalese community, the regions fastest-growing migration group.
Incorporating historical and contemporary material loaned from private collections and public institutions, Woven from a Hundred Flowers showcases the historical, social, and cultural background of Nepal while reflecting the vibrant and evolving Nepalese community of the Georges River area.
Developed in close collaboration with the community, the enthusiasm and generosity of participants has truly brought this exhibition to life.
RSVP for the official opening on Friday 1 May 2026!
Hurstville Museum & Gallery
17 MAY 2026, 4.30AM – 9.30AM EUROVISION LIVE BROADCAST PARTY
Get ready for the ultimate Eurovision celebration as the world’s favourite song contest returns to Hurstville!
Join us for our LIVE and FREE Eurovision Broadcast Party! Experience the grand final live on the big screen, immersing yourself in the magic of Eurovision.
Hurstville Entertainment Centre, Marana Auditorium, McMahon Street, Hurstville
23 MAY – 28 JUNE 2026
Richard Goncalves is a musician and visual artist based in Lugarno. His new exhibition, on from 23 May to 28 June, utilises driftwood collected along the shores of the Georges River to create unique sculptural forms. These works respond to the creative force of nature and are a collaboration with the river. Dragon’s Lair Gallery exhibition
Oliver Dimoski 0456 897 528 odimoski @georgesriver.nsw.gov.au
Kathryn Landsberry 0419 984 934 klandsberry @georgesriver.nsw.gov.au
Natalie Mort 0499 522 200 nmort @georgesriver.nsw.gov.au
Nancy Liu 0400 681 188 nliu @georgesriver.nsw.gov.au
Leon Pun 0490 388 752 lpun @georgesriver.nsw.gov.au
Ben Wang 0499 366 888 bwang @georgesriver.nsw.gov.au
Elise Borg, Mayor 0477 222 089 eborg @georgesriver.nsw.gov.au
Thomas Gao 0435 307 232 tgao @georgesriver.nsw.gov.au
Sam Stratikopoulos
Deputy Mayor 0438 750 355 sstratikopoulos @georgesriver.nsw.gov.au
Tom Arthur 0432 397 106 tarthur @georgesriver.nsw.gov.au
Gerard Hayes 0413 710 994 ghayes @georgesriver.nsw.gov.au
Christina Jamieson 0431 833 609 cjamieson @georgesriver.nsw.gov.au
Georges River Civic Centre Corner MacMahon and Dora Streets, Hurstville
Opening hours: Mon to Fri 8.30am-5.00pm
Matthew Allison 0400 240 294 mallison @georgesriver.nsw.gov.au
Elaina Anzellotti 0418 308 997 eanzellotti @georgesriver.nsw.gov.au
Peter Mahoney 0419 374 727 pmahoney @georgesriver.nsw.gov.au
Clive James Library and Service Centre Kogarah Town Square, Belgrave Street, Kogarah Opening hours: Mon to Fri 9.00am-6.00pm, Sat 10.00am-4.00pm, Sun 10.00am-1.00pm 9330 6400 | mail@georgesriver.nsw.gov.au | georgesriver.nsw.gov.au | fiyl