Safety and Progress: The Albury Sunday Morning Briefing

Staying Safe in the Summer Heat

Good morning, Albury. As we head into the first Sunday of February, the primary focus for the city is safety. A Total Fire Ban has been officially declared for the North East region today, Sunday, 1 February 2026. With temperatures expected to reach the low 30s and gusty winds forecast to sweep through the area, the fire danger is significantly elevated. Residents are reminded that no fires may be lit in the open air or allowed to remain alight until midnight tonight. Local authorities are urging everyone to review their bushfire survival plans and remain vigilant throughout the day.

The weather today will see a top of approximately 32°C. While we may experience some early morning cloud cover or isolated thunderstorms, conditions are expected to remain hot and dry for the majority of the day. It is a perfect time to take advantage of indoor local facilities or find a shaded spot by the river—provided you stay water-wise as the community continues to navigate the peak of the summer season.

Community Vigilance: Search for Missing Teen

A heavy talking point across the city this weekend is the ongoing search for 14-year-old Harper Laurien. Harper was last seen at Noreuil Park on Thursday, 29 January, and police have expressed serious concerns for her welfare. Description details have been widely circulated: she is of Caucasian appearance, approximately 147cm tall, with a thin build and shoulder-length brown hair. She was last seen wearing a black top and black shorts. The community is encouraged to keep a close watch, particularly in the Noreuil Park, CBD, and Lavington areas, and to report any information to the Murray River Police District or Crime Stoppers.

A Win for Local Sport: Lauren Jackson Sports Centre

On a more positive note, the mood of the city remains buoyed by the recent official unveiling of Stage 1 of the Lauren Jackson Sports Centre redevelopment. This $15.2 million project is a significant milestone for Albury’s sporting infrastructure. The upgrade includes world-class conference rooms, refurbished change rooms, and improved accessibility features. Named after our city's own basketball legend, the centre is already proving its worth by hosting major regional competitions, bringing a surge of energy and visitors to the region. It is a major source of local pride that reaffirms Albury’s position as a premier regional hub for major sporting events.

Feel-Good Feature: Journey to the Stars

For families looking for a cool, educational escape today, the "Australia in Space: In Orbit" exhibition at the Albury LibraryMuseum is the place to be. This stellar display has been a hit since it touched down for the summer holidays, offering a fascinating look at Australia’s contributions to space exploration. It provides an interactive experience for children and adults alike, making it a wonderful way to celebrate curiosity and innovation while escaping the afternoon heat.

• Total Fire Ban in place until 11:59 pm tonight across the North East.
• Public assistance requested to locate missing 14-year-old Harper Laurien.
• Explore the "In Orbit" exhibition at the Albury LibraryMuseum.
• Harness racing is scheduled to take place at the Albury track today.