Sizzling Skies and a New Chapter for the Border: Your Albury Morning Briefing

Morning Heat and a City in Transition

Good morning, Albury. Residents should prepare for a scorcher today, Thursday, 5 February 2026. Temperatures are expected to climb to a high of 37 degrees Celsius (99°F), with a low of 18 degrees recorded earlier this morning. The sky will remain mostly clear, bringing extreme UV levels. If you are heading out to the Murray or working outdoors, the usual precautions are essential today: slip, slop, slap, and stay hydrated as the heat peaks in the mid-afternoon.

The Big Talking Point: A New Era at Albury City

The primary topic of conversation across the city this week is the significant leadership transition at Albury City Council. Following a resolution on February 2, the council has parted ways with its long-serving Chief Executive Officer, Frank Zaknich. Having guided the city through the challenges of the pandemic and the delivery of the Albury Riverside Precinct, his departure marks a major shift in local governance. Gael Evans-Barr has stepped in as the Acting CEO while the search for an interim leader continues. This change comes at a critical time as the council navigates major infrastructure commitments and financial sustainability goals for the second half of the decade.

City on the Move: Hospital Progress and Hoops

The mood in the city remains one of growth and activity. The Albury Wodonga Regional Hospital redevelopment is making visible strides, with the new Northeast Building on track for its 2026 completion. This facility is the first major milestone in the $558 million project. Residents may notice early works beginning on East Street and Borella Road to provide permanent verge parking, a move designed to ease access during the upcoming construction of the seven-storey Clinical Services Building.

For sports fans, the city is buzzing today as the Wodonga Basketball Association Representative Tournament tips off. Running from today through February 7 at the Wodonga Sports and Leisure Centre, the event is expected to bring approximately 2,000 visitors to the region, providing a welcome boost to our local hospitality and retail sectors.

Feel-Good Story: Local Arts Pioneer Honoured

There is still a lingering sense of pride in the community following the recent recognition of Owen Saleeba in the 2026 Australia Day Honours list. As the inaugural Chair of the Murray River Performing Group and the world-renowned Flying Fruit Fly Circus, Mr. Saleeba was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM). His lifelong dedication to the Albury-Wodonga arts scene has been instrumental in putting our city on the international cultural map, and his recognition serves as a heartwarming reminder of the incredible talent nurtured right here on the border.

Community Notices

• Road Naming: Albury City is still seeking community feedback on the naming of "Asher Lane" and "Discovery Road" (located in Noreuil Park). Submissions are open until Tuesday, 10 February.
• Water Polo: Keep an eye out for visitors arriving early for the Water Polo Victoria Senior Country Championships, which begin tomorrow at the Albury Swim Centre.