URGENT UPDATE: Griffith Mayor Doug Curran has issued a call to action regarding the looming water crisis as the city gears up for 2026. In a recent interview, he highlighted the pressing need for federal representatives to address water management issues impacting the region.
As 2026 approaches, Mayor Curran stressed that the most significant challenge for Griffith will be navigating the complexities of the Murray-Darling Basin Plan review. “Our biggest hurdle for 2026 is going to be water,” he stated, emphasizing the necessity for urgent consultations and stakeholder engagement through RAMJO.
The Mayor’s comments come as Griffith faces ongoing debates over the effectiveness of the new Griffith Base Hospital and whether the city should separate from the Murrumbidgee Local Health District to enhance healthcare services. “Having a brand new hospital has been great, but we need to ensure we are getting the best use out of it,” Curran remarked, hinting at the necessity for improved health outcomes.
Reflecting on the past year, Curran acknowledged the significant effort involved in hiring new General Manager Scott Grant, which has been a central focus of the administration. “It’s been an unbelievably busy year,” he noted, highlighting the importance of making informed choices for the community.
While the year lacked major new developments, Curran pointed to the completion of existing projects as a strategic move. He stated, “One of my priorities when I was elected was to stop building and to start utilizing the resources we’ve got.” This includes hosting conferences aimed at boosting tourism and showcasing the region’s assets.
Looking ahead, housing developments are set to be a major focus for 2026, but the critical issue of water remains at the forefront. “We’re looking forward to getting our teeth into it and getting some consultation,” Curran stated, urging the new Federal Minister Murray Watt to visit Griffith. “I think it’s quite poor he hasn’t been to the area yet,” he added, expressing disappointment in the lack of engagement from federal leadership.
As the city prepares for the challenges of 2026, the focus on water management will be crucial for the sustainability and growth of Griffith. Residents and local leaders alike are calling for immediate action and commitment from federal representatives to ensure the future of their community.
This situation is developing, and further updates will be provided as the year progresses. Stay tuned for more urgent news on Griffith’s path forward.
