Public Notice: Adelaide Cup Day Holiday Operations and Service Updates

Public Holiday Notice: Adelaide Cup Day

Monday, 9 March 2026, is observed as a public holiday throughout South Australia for Adelaide Cup Day. In accordance with the Public Holidays Act 2023, most state government offices, schools, and major financial institutions will be closed. While the Adelaide Cup horse race remains the focal point of the day’s sporting calendar at Morphettville Racecourse, residents are advised that general commercial trading hours may vary. Non-exempt shops in the Greater Adelaide Shopping District are permitted to trade from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm, though individual business hours may differ.

Residential Services and Waste Collection

The City of Adelaide and East Waste have confirmed that kerbside waste, recycling, and green organics collections will proceed as per the regular Monday schedule. Unlike the New Year’s Day and Christmas Day holidays, there are no shifts in collection dates for the Adelaide Cup holiday. Residents are reminded to have their bins placed on the kerbside by 6:00 am to ensure collection. City libraries and community centres, including the City Library in Rundle Place and the Hutt Street Library, will be closed for the duration of the holiday.

Public Transport and Road Access

Adelaide Metro will operate on a Sunday/Public Holiday timetable on Monday, 9 March. Commuters should be aware of several active service disruptions:

• West Thebarton Road Detour: Ongoing infrastructure works at West Thebarton Road and Phillips Street will necessitate detours for bus routes 286, 287, and 288. These disruptions are scheduled to remain in place until Tuesday, 10 March.
• Hyde Street Access: Following the Rhino Room’s Fringe Street Party, Hyde Street (between Stockley Alley and Pirie Street) is scheduled to reopen to all traffic from 1:00 am on Monday, 9 March.
• Adelaide Metro Stop Closures: Continuous stop changes remain active on Craigmore Road (Blakeview) and Yatala Vale Road (Fairview Park) due to long-term roadworks projects.

Health and Safety Advisory

SA Health maintains an active public health awareness notice regarding the ongoing Funded Measles Vaccination Program. With an increase in reported cases among unvaccinated adults aged 20 to 49 years who have recently travelled, the community is encouraged to review their immunization status. Public health facilities will operate with holiday staffing levels; however, emergency departments remain open 24/7 for urgent medical needs.

Election 2026: Caretaker Period

Residents are reminded that the South Australian Government is currently in a caretaker period following the issuance of writs on 21 February for the upcoming State Election on 21 March 2026. During this time, official council and state communications are restricted to essential service information and routine administrative notices to ensure neutrality ahead of the polling date.