Public Notice: Lunar New Year Ceremonies and Essential City Services

Official City Committee Meetings at Town Hall

The City of Sydney advises that several key committee meetings are scheduled for Monday, 16 February 2026, at the Sydney Town Hall Council Chamber. Residents and interested parties are invited to attend or view the proceedings online. The schedule for the afternoon is as follows:

• 3:00 PM: Corporate, Finance, Properties and Tenders Committee
• 3:01 PM: Environment and Climate Change Committee
• 3:02 PM: Cultural, Creative and Nightlife Committee
• 3:06 PM: Transport, Heritage and Planning Committee

These sessions will cover critical infrastructure tenders and cultural planning for the upcoming autumn season. Community members wishing to address the committees must register their intent via the official council secretariat by midday.

Lunar New Year: Official Eye Dotting and Haymarket Activations

As the city prepares for the Year of the Horse, official ceremonies will take place on Monday, 16 February. The public is invited to attend the traditional Eye Dotting Ceremony and Lion Dance at 11:00 AM in Farrer Place. This event, led by the Jin Wu Koon troupe, signifies the awakening of the lions to bring good fortune to the business district.

In Haymarket, the Lunar Lanterns installation on Hay Street is now fully operational. Commuters and pedestrians should note increased foot traffic and minor diversions around the Dixon Street precinct as large-scale art installations are finalized for the primary festival launch on February 17.

Transport Alert: Sydney Trains Maintenance and Trackwork

Transport for NSW has announced essential maintenance works beginning Monday, 16 February, to improve network reliability. Commuters should be aware of the following disruptions:

• Central to Hornsby: Nightly maintenance will occur from 10:00 PM to 4:00 AM starting tonight. Residents near the rail corridor may experience increased noise from rail grinding and rerailing activities.
• Blue Mountains Line: From Monday, 16 February through to Friday, 27 February, buses will replace some train services due to major trackwork. Passengers are advised to allow for an additional 45 minutes of travel time.
• Sydney Metro: Essential testing continues on the Southwest extension. While services remain active today, frequency may be adjusted during late-night windows.

Summer Health Advisory: Heat Awareness

With February temperatures remaining above average, NSW Health reminds residents to stay hydrated and minimize outdoor physical activity during the peak heat hours of 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Local libraries and community centers remain open as 'cool-air' sanctuaries for vulnerable community members. Please check on elderly neighbors and ensure pets have adequate shade and water.