Albury Briefing: Shifting Skies, Council Changes, and Local Stars

Morning Albury: A City in Transition

Good morning, Albury. As the sun rises on this Tuesday, February 3, 2026, our city finds itself navigating a series of significant local shifts. From the halls of the AlburyCity Council to the runways of our regional airport, the news of the last 24 hours has set a tone of transition and resilience for the week ahead.

The Big Talk: A Shifting Flight Path

The headline dominating conversations across the border today is the news that QantasLink will axe its direct Albury-to-Melbourne service starting this March. The airline cited declining demand for the route, though services to Sydney and Brisbane remain unaffected. Albury Mayor Kevin Mack has already indicated that the council will not be standing still, telling local media that they are actively exploring opportunities with other airline partners to reinstate Melbourne connections. For many local business travelers and residents, the loss of this direct link to the Victorian capital is a significant blow to regional connectivity, making it the primary talking point in the CBD today.

Council Leadership: A New Chapter

In a major development from yesterday's extraordinary meeting, Albury City Council resolved that long-serving CEO Frank Zaknich will not be returning to his role. Mr. Zaknich, who has been on leave since December, led the organization for over a decade through major projects and the challenges of the pandemic. While the council expressed gratitude for his years of service, they emphasized a desire for a 'renewed leadership focus.' Gael Evans-Barr will continue as Acting CEO while the search for an interim replacement begins, marking a significant change in the city's administrative landscape.

Community Safety: An Update

Residents in East Albury can breathe a slight sigh of relief following concerns over a reported child approach on Walsh Street this past Sunday. Police have confirmed that a man in his 40s presented himself to the Albury Police Station on Sunday night. While he was released pending further inquiries, the update has helped ease some of the immediate tension in the neighborhood, though authorities continue to encourage general vigilance.

Feel-Good Story: Reaching for the Stars

For a dose of inspiration today, the 'Australia in Space: In Orbit' exhibition at the Albury LibraryMuseum continues to be a standout success. The interactive display, which highlights Australia’s contributions to space exploration, has become a favorite for families looking to escape the summer heat. Additionally, the city is looking toward the future as nominations are now officially open for the 2026 AlburyCity Youth Council. With 14 positions available, it is a fantastic opportunity for local young leaders to follow in the footsteps of basketball legend Lauren Jackson and make their mark on our community.

Weather Outlook

Expect a classic summer day with a top of 30°C and plenty of sunshine. With the UV index hitting extreme levels, make sure to stay sun-safe if you are heading down to the Murray River or the Botanic Gardens this afternoon.