Hawkesbury Gazette - October 2025

October 2025

TRUSTED SINCE 1888

100-YEAR CELEBRATION FOR RICHMOND RAAF

THOUSANDS turned out on Saturday, September 27 for the opening day of the RAAF Richmond Centenary Airshow. Families arrived with picnic rugs, chairs and eskies, ready to watch a full program of flying and ground displays celebrating 100 years of the base.

Unlike many large events where people compete for the best vantage point, this was an accessible show for everyone. Because the action was in the air, every spot was a good one. No matter where you sat, you had a clear view of the displays. This gave the whole day a calm, friendly atmosphere, with families relaxed on the grass or concreted areas, and people lining up patiently to explore aircraft or meet the pilots.

The flying displays showcased the full range of Air Force skill, from fast jets to heavy lifters, and kept eyes trained on the sky throughout the day. Fighter jets roared overhead, climbing vertically before rolling back down with ear-splitting speed. At one point, a fast jet executed a flat spin — climbing sharply before pivoting into a controlled 180-degree spin that seemed to hang in the air before powering away. It drew audible reactions from the crowds and showed the precision of Air Force pilots at their best.

Hercules and Globemaster transports impressed with steep turns, low passes and tactical manoeuvres rarely seen outside a military environment. A C-27J Spartan demonstrated short take-offs and landings, while a KC-30 tanker flew past with its refuelling boom extended. The Roulettes aero-

batic team added trademark precision, looping and rolling in tight formation before breaking away in perfect timing. Afterwards, the pilots signed posters for long but cheerful queues.

On the ground, visitors explored a wide range of static aircraft. The Hercules transport plane was especially popular, with families walking through its cavernous cargo hold, while the C-17 Globemaster and Spartan were also open for inspection. Heritage aircraft from 100 Squadron gave a nod to the past, completing a program that balanced history with modern technology.

Among those enjoying the day was Cadet Gabby Clark, who is partway through her training giving us an insight into becoming a pilot.

“At the start you do a few months of ground school and theory before you get anywhere near a cockpit. After about a year you can start assisted flying… If you want to go further, like into more advanced or commercial-style training, that can take another 18 months or so.” - Cadet Gabby Clark

Online reactions reflected both frustration and praise. Some, like

Narelle Parkinson, described threehour delays and long waits with children. Others, like Ian Jones from Brisbane, praised the flying and called the refund policy the right decision. Debbie King Weiden said the wait was “well worth it,” while Joe Mizzi urged lessons be learned to make the next show “bigger and better.”

The combination of thrilling flying, interactive displays and community spirit made the Richmond Airshow a fitting celebration of the base’s century of service.

Hawkesbury Council pushing 40% rate rise

HAWKESBURY ratepayers are being warned to brace for one of the biggest rate hikes in the Council’s history, with a plan now on the table to raise rates by almost 40% over four years.

At the Council meeting on 9 September, councillors considered a proposal for a Special Rate Variation (SRV) that would see rates climb by 11.73% each year for three years, followed by another 3.9% increase in the fourth year.

For the average household, this would mean an extra $132 in the first year, $284 more in the second, $460 more in the third, and by the fourth year, nearly $500 extra every year

compared to today. Small businesses and farms would face the same steep percentage rises.

Council argues the increase is necessary to deal with a $99M backlog of road, stormwater, building and park upgrades, warning that without extra funding, the shortfall could balloon to $170M by 2035.

Roads are highlighted as the greatest pressure point, with many deteriorating faster than Council can afford to maintain. While past natural disasters brought in state and federal grants, those funds are now drying up, leaving ratepayers to foot the bill.

Council estimates the SRV would generate an extra $161M by 2036,

money they say will go straight into renewing roads and critical infrastructure.

To progress the application, Council will spend $80,000 on consultation and financial analysis, including surveys, mailouts, town-hall style meetings, and an independent “ability to pay” study. Submissions to Council need to be made by October 26, 2025.

The proposal must then be submitted to the Independent Pricing and Regulatory Tribunal (IPART) by February 2026, with a decision expected by May 2026.

Other councils across NSW have recently attempted similar hikes. Some, like Northern Beaches and Federation

Councils, have been successful. Others, such as North Sydney, were knocked back by IPART for failing to prove cost savings or strong community support. Hawkesbury Council acknowledges the same risks apply here. If the application fails, it warns services could be cut and roads will continue to deteriorate.

For families, retirees, and small businesses already struggling with cost-of-living pressures, the nearly 40% rise will be difficult to absorb. Community voices are already asking tough questions: Has Council done enough to cut costs internally and will residents see a measurable improvement in roads and services?

More images inside

Local news with Meals on Wheels

OLDER residents across the Hawkesbury will soon enjoy more than just a meal at their door. In a new partnership between the Hawkesbury Gazette and Meals on Wheels, the Gazette will now be delivered alongside meals, ensuring many people with limited mobility can stay connected to local news, events, and conversations.

Meals on Wheels staff and volunteers say their work is about far more

than nutrition and this initiative comes directly from client requests.

“Some of our clients can’t easily get out and buy a newspaper or collect a free one, but they still want to know what’s happening,” a Meals on Wheels spokesperson explained. “Delivering their Gazette keeps them connected with Hawkesbury life.”

A Community Collaboration

The first bundles of

the Hawkesbury Gazette will be delivered later this week. For many, the combination of a meal and a local newspaper will provide not just nourishment, but also a sense of belonging.

The Gazette recently returned to local ownership as a not-for-profit publication, drawing on contributions from local specialists and residents to ensure it reflects community voices.

“Our mission has always been to ensure everyone in Hawkesbury has access to independent, community-driven news. Teaming up with Meals on Wheels helps us reach people who can’t easily get to the newsagency or shopping mall,” a Gazette spokesperson said.

This collaboration highlights how organisations can work together to strengthen community ties and enhance social connection. This story continues inside.

Proudest man in the Hawkesbury says thank you

„ BY DANIEL SADLER

IJUST want to say a huge thank you to the Hawkesbury for all the love and support you’ve shown me after my story appeared in the Hawkesbury Gazette.

Since then, I’ve received hundreds of congratulatory messages from friends, neighbours, and even people I didn’t know, and it has made me feel so proud.

My mum and dad are really proud too, and we’ve been reading every single message together.

“Dan actually burst into tears as he listened to the comments,” said close friend Carren Maris. “So many people spoke of his cheerful nature, his giving heart, and the way he always brightens the room. It meant the world to him to know just how much

the community values him.”

I’ve always tried to be cheerful and helpful wherever I can, and to know that people notice and appreciate that is really special. The Hawkesbury is such a wonderful place, filled with kind

and supportive people, and I’m lucky to call it home. From the bottom of my heart - thank you for every kind word and every message. You’ve all made me feel like the proudest man in the Hawkesbury.

Hawkesbury Meals on Wheels team.

Hawkesbury Council shows great improvement

HAWKESDBURY Council called “worst in Greater Sydney” for time taken to accept DA’s in 2023/24 at 43 days, has now shown remarkable improvement to take an average of 11 days. The comments were made at the Penrith City Council Developer Forum on September 23.

The forum, hosted by Penrith Council and addressed by the Property Council of Australia, brought together senior planning and strategy staff alongside industry leaders to discuss development challenges across Western Sydney.

During the Industry Insights session, the Property Council’s Western Sydney Regional Director, Ross Grove, told the audience that Hawkesbury Council was the worst in Greater Western Sydney, but now had improved in time taken to accept DA applications.

Members of Urban City Group, a development advisory firm located at Windsor, who attended the forum, said they were “shocked, but not surprised” by the assessment.

“We heard it loud and clear and are relieved at this improvement.” said one Urban City Group representative who was present at the session.

“The extraordinary delay in lodgement was ex-

Aactly what local businesses and developers have been experiencing. It’s not just a perception—it’s being acknowledged at industry level. Now improvements are needed in the time taken processing applications.”

The statement drew nods of agreement from attendees, with several developers echoing the frustration of long processing delays in dealing with Hawkesbury Council.

Another Hawkesbury business attendee at the forum stated it “confirms what we have been telling Councillors for years, now they have sorted out the commencement of the process they need to make the same time improvement to the approval or disapproval of DA process.”

“The time taken to have a DA decision is still unacceptable. Businesses lose money, projects stall, housing delivery suffers—and the region’s reputation takes a hit. We need accountability for post lodgement processing times now.”

The criticism comes at a time when Western Sydney councils are under mounting pressure to accelerate housing approvals and support growth around the new Western Sydney International Airport.

“Penrith, Blacktown and Liverpool are stepping up, but Hawkesbury is holding the region back,” said

another attendee who did not want to be named for fear that it would negatively impact on their DA application with Council said. “Investors want certainty, not endless waiting like Hawkesbury gives us”

Business groups have called on Council to immediately publish its DA processing benchmarks compared to neighbouring LGAs and outline what resourcing or process reforms will be put in place to improve timeframes for outcomes.

“Delays hurt everyone—homeowners, businesses, and the broader community,” said Phil Bamford of Hawkesbury Business Group. If Council can show the same improvement in processing times after lodging DA submissions Hawkesbury will be on the way to being a successful Council.”

Hawkesbury Council commented that the NSW Government Lodgement Performance League Table which shows averaged lodgement days 11, well within the average time taken by Western Sydney Councils. Now business would like the same efficiency for DA processing times.

Fire destroys Loxley on Bellbird Hill

DEVASATING fire has gutted one of the Hawkesbury’s most beloved heritage venues, Loxley on Bellbird Hill at Kurrajong.

The alarm was raised at 7:06pm on September 5, with emergency crews on site in under ten minutes. Despite their swift response, the blaze tore through the historic property, leaving little more than a shell. Thankfully, no function was underway at the time, though staff were present. The cause was an electrical fault in the aging structure.

Owner and creator of the famous wedding venue Mr Paul Maher said: “It’s so hard to believe and I’m overwhelmed by how many people have told me of their fantastic memories of events at Loxley.”

Loxley on Bellbird Hill has long been a jewel of the Kurrajong Hills.

The property was originally constructed in the early 1900s, one of several grand homes that dotted the Bellbird Hill escarpment as Sydney’s well-to-do sought country retreats in the cooler hills above the Hawkesbury.

Its timber and sandstone construction, deep verandas, and high ceilings reflected the Federation-era

Tstyle, designed both for elegance and for practical comfort in the Australian summer.

In its early years, the homestead served as a private family residence, with orchards and gardens spilling down the slope toward the valley.

Generations of Kurrajong locals remember the property as a landmark

on the steep climb up the Bells Line of Road — a gateway to the Blue Mountains that became known for its commanding views across the district.

By the latter part of the 20th century, as tourism to the Hawkesbury expanded, the estate was transformed into a boutique guesthouse and function centre.

The name “Loxley” was adopted during this period, and the venue soon developed a reputation as one of Sydney’s most romantic wedding destinations. Its sweeping driveway, century-old trees, rose gardens, and outlook over the valley became the backdrop for thousands of ceremonies and celebrations.

Over the decades, Loxley on Bellbird Hill hosted not only weddings but also conferences, community gatherings, and special events. For many, it became a place of firsts and lasts: the beginning of marriages, milestone anniversaries, and even memorial services. It was more than a building — it was a keeper of personal and collective memories.

For the Hawkesbury community, the fire represents not only the loss of a building but also the silencing of a piece of living history. Loxley stood as a bridge between the Hawkesbury’s pioneering past and its thriving role as a tourism and wedding hub.

The community’s thoughts are with the staff and owners of Loxley, who not only lost a business, but a heritage landmark that will be remembered with affection and gratitude by thousands who passed through its doors.

Message for Hawkesbury’s Year 12 Students

HIS October, Year 12 students across the Hawkesbury are opening their exam papers and beginning the final stretch of their school journey, the Higher School Certificate.

It is a time that can feel daunting. The pressure of exams, the long hours of study, and the weight of expectations can make these weeks seem overwhelming. But it is important to remember: this time will pass, and

brighter days are just ahead.

The HSC is a milestone, but it does not define you. It is simply one part of a much bigger story, a story of friendships formed, lessons learned, and the resilience you’ve shown in reaching this point. Every student who sits down to write an exam has already achieved something remarkable: completing 13 years of schooling, overcoming challenges along the way, and stepping forward into the future.

In just a few short weeks, the study sessions and exam nerves will give way to celebrations. You will dress up for your farewell formals, take photos that capture the joy of finishing school, and share laughter with friends who have walked this journey beside you. These moments of recognition, of pride, of stepping into adulthood are waiting for you.

So, take heart, Hawkesbury students. Lean on your teachers, friends

and families for support, and remember to look after yourselves during this busy season. The HSC is only one chapter, and it is followed by many exciting opportunities whether that’s further study, training, work, or new adventures.

From all of us in the Hawkesbury community, we wish you calm, confidence, and strength. And we look forward to celebrating with you as you take your first steps into adulthood.

Aftermath of the fire.

COUNCIL IMPOSES A 20% RENT RISE

Nine early childhood centres hit

OVER 400 Hawkesbury children

and their families are set to face substantial fee increases as Council voted for a massive rent rise on nine community-managed not-forprofit Early Childhood Centres. The increase 20% per year over four years will force centres to pay up to 80% of full commercial lease rates.

Council justified the decision with a commercial-in-confidence report alleging centres could afford higher rents, despite no public scrutiny of the claims. Business and community leaders argue the validity of the report cannot be assessed, given the poor quality of information in past Council documents, and say scrutiny is essential before any further steps are taken.

Parents and families believe the commercial-in-confidence label is being used to stop centres from providing explanations about alleged “hidden profits.”

“Families are being slugged with higher fees to cover Council’s own financial mismanagement,” said Fiona Germaine (mother of 4-year-old). “It’s disgraceful, they are harming the next generation just to make their books look better.”

The decision stands in stark contrast to Council’s $4M subsidy for Turnbull Oval approved in the same meeting.

“We subsidise sport, but we’re bleeding 80% out of childcare.” Cr Wheeler told September Council meet-

ing when speaking in opposition to the proposal.

“That tells you everything about their priorities,” a parent said.

Parents the Gazette spoke to, were

concerned to maintain anonymity to protect their families.

EXPLAINER

Early childhood education is not just about looking after children while their parents are at work. It is about nation-building. The first five years of a child’s life are when their brains develop most rapidly. Australian governments recognise this and incorporate in policies at the national and state levels of government.

High-quality early learning builds cognitive, social, and emotional skills that carry through into schooling, employment, and lifelong wellbeing.

Studies repeatedly show that every dollar invested in early learning delivers multiple dollars in return through higher productivity, reduced welfare dependency, better health outcomes, and stronger communities.

The Australian Government funds the Child Care Subsidy, giving families up to 90% of their childcare fees back, and delivers the Universal Access Agreement, ensuring every child can access 15 hours of preschool in the year before starting school. State governments also play their part.

In NSW, for example, fee relief of up to $4,220 per child per year is provided for preschool in long day care and community preschools. Victoria has gone further, introducing free kindergarten for 3- and 4-year-olds.

These are deliberate investments in the nation’s future because international studies show early learning pays lifelong dividends for everyone.

How Councils Support Early Learning

At the local level, councils also have played a critical role to play. They provide land and buildings where community preschools operate, often under peppercorn rents that recog-

nise these services are not- for-profit, community-run, and delivering an essential public good. Penrith, Blacktown, Blue Mountains and The Hills Councils, and Hawkesbury in the past, has long understood that supporting preschools supports families, strengthens the economy, and prepares the next generation for success.

Hawkesbury is a Childcare Desert that impacts productivity

Hawkesbury is considered a childcare desert, with families facing long waiting lists, limited places, and in some cases, hours of travel every day just to drop children off. This directly impedes productivity. When parents can’t find or afford childcare, they are forced to cut back on work hours or leave the workforce altogether. Businesses then struggle to fill positions, and the entire community loses out.

Council’s Rent Hike

Hawkesbury City Council has notified the 9 local providers that use Council-owned buildings their rent will rise by 80%, 20% per year over the next 4 years. Centres will now have to pay for the rent rise through higher fees and increased fund-raising activities by families.

What Council is saying

To justify this course of action, Hawkesbury Council has compiled a financial report each of the nine centres which it has labelled "commercial in-confidence" so only Councillors can see the content of this report produced by the General Manager and are barred from discussing it with anyone. Councillors could decide to remove this label but have chosen not to.

Councillors have no mandate

No Councillor ran on an election platform to increase the cost of early childhood education for Hawkesbury families.

Letters to The Editor

Letters to the editor

We’re always happy to accept letters to the Editor. It’s your opportunity to speak about the good, the bad, and the ugly, and everything in between. Send your letters to editor@hawkesburygazette.com and please include your name and suburb and phone number - we won’t print your number but we need it in case we need to clarify anything. If you’d rather not have your name printed, just let us know. Look forward to receiving your letters.

A battleground for public land and public trust

How does a jewel of Australia’s sporting heritage teeter on the brink of demolition while those entrusted with its care look the other way?

The Clarendon Equestrian Grounds located within the Hawkesbury Showground—once the proud beating heart of New South Wales equestrian sport—now stand in limbo, silenced by political paralysis and a dangerous abdication of responsibility.

The Hawkesbury District Agricultural Association (HDAA) seeks to bulldoze it to make way for trade shows and car parking. Hawkesbury City Council—tasked with managing this land in trust—washes its hands, hiding behind “legal advice” and cozy relationships. The result? $2,000,000 worth of sporting infrastructure destroyed and $150,000–$200,000 demolition bill the equestrian community is being asked to shoulder and a generational asset is lost.

Jeff Oliver

The Kindness of a Childcare Service

Dear Editor,

I have a vested interest in this matter. There was a me when I was struggling with finances and a childcare centre in the Hawkesbury gave us the breathing room to backpay what we owed. Their kindness allowed us to save face, keep our child in care, and stay in the workforce. That experience showed me the pressure families face and gave me an appreciation on for the difficult position on childcare centres are in when supporting their communities. I

can see both sides, which is why I cannot accept the Council’s approach or the hollow use of words like “fair balance” and “fairness.”

The mayor and councillors claim that increasing rents for not-for-profit childcare centres up to 80 per cent of commercial levels represents a fair balance. But for something to be “fair balance”, it must pass a fairness test and achieve genuine balance. Simply saying the words does not make it so. Higher rents will mean higher fees for families, fewer staff for children with additional needs, and the risk of service closures. This is not balance, this is shining the burden onto the very people we should be supporting. Equity must not be confused with sameness and targeted support is true balance.

The principle is simple. Imagine a family with three children, one with asthma. Parents spend more on the child who needs the inhaler, not split the money three ways in the name of fairness. Treating all three exactly the same would leave one gasping for breath. Tradies know it too: if one Ute keeps breaking down, you fix it so the crew can get to work. That is balance that makes sense.

What Council has done is reduce children and families to numbers and ignore the value that community childcare provides. The impact also falls unevenly. In many lower-income households, when childcare becomes unaffordable it is usually the mother who gives up work while the father carries the income load. That means more stress for both parents and less security for the family and even greater hardship for those already in a single-income

household. And when centres cut staff, it is mostly women who lose their jobs because childcare is a female-dominated workforce. These are not abstract theories; they are real pressures borne by women in our community.

Roshan D’Souza

Paralysis ticks in lower Blue Mountains

The Editor, Hawkesbury Gazette

Readers may be aware that the saliva of the paralysis tick contains toxins, which can be injected into a host when a tick bites. The tick is common across much of Australia, particularly along virtually the entire eastern seaboard. However, it has also been isolated in areas more than 100 km inland including the Lower Blue Mountains.

What is less known is that these toxins can cause a serious allergic condition known as Alpha-gal syndrome (AGS) which causes a patient to develop an allergy to meat and meat products, causing potentially life-threatening anaphylaxis. Diagnosis is difficult as sickness may happen hours after the meat is consumed, making it hard to trace the cause, and further complicated by the fact that, according to studies, up to 40% of doctors aren’t even aware of AGS.

The best way of avoiding this dangerous condition is to avoid all red meat, which will also offer major benefits in terms of our health, the environment, and of course the cows, pigs and sheep that suffer appalling treatment at the hands of the big meat corporations.

Dr Desmond Bellamy PETA Australia

Digitial Edition

Health care is worse in the West

„ BY BRADY JONES

LIKE many Aussies, I’m out in the sun as soon as the first September heatwave rolls in. And like many Aussies, I have a few worrying moles that I sure hope aren’t cancer.

In conversation with my dad, he also shared the same worry and recently received an hour-long skin check with his new out-of-area general practitioner. Inspired to do the same thing, I booked a skin check with my long-time GP in Castle Hill... and was met with not even 15 minutes of attention.

In all honesty, I’m hesitant to switch doctors — it’s not only the travel time that I’ll cop for basic check-ups, but also the known history and somewhat trusted relationship.

My dad, Andrew Jones, had been with his previous doctor in Riverstone for over 30 years and decided to make the switch when small health issues were becoming more concerning.

He said: “My dad, uncle and grandfather all trusted the same doctor in Riverstone. I thought this kind of medical history would benefit me, but it just comes down to quality care at the end of the day. I think health care here is quite poor in the west. My previous doctor had two rooms, he’d walk out one, see me for 5 minutes, sign a script and see me later. I’d still be charged the full cost, and before you know it, he’s seeing the next patient.

“Recently I had an 80cm blood clot running from my groin to my ankle. My new GP urgently pushed for a CAT

scan on the same day. If she wasn’t this attentive, I’m not sure what would have happened.”

For many, it’s a stark reality to travel out of area for health care. My dad now travels from Ebenezer to Gladesville just to receive medical attention that’s detailed, urgent when needed, predictive and not reactive.

Hawkesbury mum, Rhi, has experienced similar issues with finding good doctors in Western Sydney.

“No paediatrician in this area will take on my 10-year-old daughter’s case, as they don’t specialise in her diagnoses. The GP’s wipe their hands of it, because they refer you, and then you can’t get past specialist reception for an appointment. There’s a lack of qualifications and I guess wanting to help someone who needs treatment desperately.”

Dr Danielle Butler argues that GP health care favours those who are disadvantaged, however it’s specialist services that undermine this. Specialist out-of-pocket costs have continued to rise in the last decade, and private health insurance has tipped these services towards higher-income patients.

“In the city, people have money. If something goes wrong, they can sue. Out here people put up with it, “said Andrew Jones

Some are asking themselves whether general practitioners really are putting in the hard yards. Pam Bliss, a Bligh Park resident for 35 years, described local practices as:

“A rotating door... they’re just script writers these days. I’m constantly

Free virtual health care is available

HAWKESBURY residents now have easier access to urgent health care without leaving home, thanks to a new NSW Labor Government initiative that delivers free virtual health services across the state. The service, available through Healthdirect on 1800 022 222, connects people with qualified clinicians between 8am and 10pm, seven days a week.

A registered nurse will first assess the call-

er’s condition over the phone. If suitable for virtual treatment, the nurse will arrange a video consultation with a doctor, nurse, or allied health professional. Patients can then receive expert advice, prescriptions, and referrals for follow-up care all without charge. This service is designed to manage a wide range of non-life-threatening issues, including:

• Coughs, colds, fevers, and flu.

having to do my own research and tell them what I want. I find I can’t establish a relationship with a doctor because they never stick around for long enough. I just want someone to instil confidence in me. You used to have a family doctor, but there’s no such thing anymore. It’s just whoever is on duty.”

A looming question is if health care is any better for the people administering it in the West. Matthew McKee, a local resident of Katoomba and worker in the Hawkesbury, sympathises with healthcare staff and their poor working conditions.

“Every shift that my wife goes to at the local hospital, SOS messages are pinging her phone pretty much begging for people to work. They’re understaffed, with a lack of senior nurses, poor wages and even worse patient-tonurse ratios.” — Matthew McKee

With suburbs near the Hawkesbury rapidly expanding and infrastructure struggling to catch up, wealthier city suburbs tend to score much better health-wise.

This disparity isn’t new. Just this August, ABC News reported Blacktown and Liverpool hospitals ranked lower than average in the BHI survey. Pictures were released of a 70-year-old man sleeping on the floor while waiting for a blood transfusion.

Outside of hospitals and general practitioners, the Health Services Union reported in March 2025 that Western Sydney paramedics were being sent to wealthier suburbs “to plug gaps.”

According to a 2024 Wellbeing Survey Report actioned by Western Sydney Leadership Dialogue, people living in Greater Western Sydney ranked access to quality healthcare and support services above other wellbeing priorities such as safety and financial security.

The NSW Government 2025–2026 budget has allocated $3.4B over four years into health infrastructure for Western Sydney, including Rouse Hill Hospital, set to be the area’s first major adult hospital.

While on a macro level this investment meets infrastructure needs with new housing, will the level of care on a micro level improve? We’re talking about doctor-to-patient relations, hospital staffing, emergency wait times and specialist services in the local area.

• Vomiting, diarrhoea, and mild infections.

• Rashes and skin irritations.

• Minor injuries such as sprains and small cuts. Importantly, the service is open to babies, children, and adults, making it a valuable option for families who may struggle to access in-person appointments.

For many in the Hawkesbury, where long travel times and limited medical services are a reality, this initiative provides a much-needed boost to local healthcare access. It also reduces unnecessary pressure on emergency departments, ensuring hospitals can focus on critical cases. By delivering convenient, free care at home, the service empowers residents to manage their health sooner and with greater confidence.

Bush fire water curtain proposal

FIRE chiefs, residents, business and community leaders renew call for roadside water tanks to stop bushfires from entering Western Sydney

A proposal to build a “water curtain” across the Blue Mountains to protect Western Sydney from catastrophic bushfires has resurfaced during NSW Parliament’s Budget Estimates hearings.

The plan, first put forward by the Bells Line of Road Business Council and the Hawkesbury Blue Mountains Community Bushfire Alliance, would establish a network of large, bore-fed water tanks along the Bells Line of Road and Putty Road. The aim is to give firefighting crews ready access to water during high-risk fire conditions.

“In urban areas you have fire hydrants at the ready. That’s what roadside water tanks are for our community water hydrants ready to go when the fire hits,” BLOR Business Council Director Fiona Germaine explained.

Fire and Rescue NSW Commissioner Jeremy Fewtrell told the hearing the proposal would make a “very significant improvement” to bushfire operations.

He recalled the 2019–20 Black Summer fires, including the failed RFS Mt Wilson backburn that broke containment and swept through Bilpin District threatening to enter Western Sydney.

“Conditions were deteriorating quickly… either ourselves or RFS hadn’t had the chance to bring up those additional resources of large water tankers,” Fewtrell said. “The time lost cycling trucks back further afield to refill was quite significant. It was a drain away from the firefighting operations.”

Fewtrell said that strategically placed tanks holding “tens of thousands, if not hundreds of thousands of litres” would not only improve efficiency but also protect firefighter safety.

At the height of the 2019 crisis, many local water sources had run dry after years of drought. Crews

were forced to rely on dams and tanks that could not be used. In one case, a firefighter single-handedly hauled heavy suction hoses into a dam to draught water work normally done by four people.

At the time, then RFS Commissioner Shane Fitzsimmons told Bilpin residents, many of whom had lost homes, he believed roadside tanks were already in place to refill Fire Rescue trucks when he dispatched them to fight the escaped Mt Wilson backburn fire.

Fewtrell stressed the strategic importance of the Bells Line of Road corridor, describing it as “the front line for fire entering Western Sydney.”

While Fewtrell offered strong support, Rural Fire Service Commissioner Trent Curtin told the hearing the Hawkesbury Local Bush Fire Management Committee had not backed the proposal when it was raised.

The committee, chaired by RFS Volunteer Group Captain Craig Burley, includes other emergency service representatives.

Burley and fellow Group Captain Ken Pullen were called before the NSW Special Coronial Inquiry into the Black Summer fires to give evidence on their role in the escaped RFS Mt Wilson backburn, a fire that allegedly caused the most damage to private and government property in the history of NSW.

They devised the plan to contain the Gospers Mountain wildfire which saw nine consecutive RFS strategic backburn fires escape containment, of which the Mt Wilson fire was one, creating the largest fire in NSW history.

More than 740,000 hectares were burnt, 214 homes & structures destroyed, critical transport and telecommunications infrastructure lost, and an estimated one billion animals and plants killed, with up to 80% of the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area decimated by fire.

Despite this outcome, Burley and Pullen told the

inquiry there were “no lessons to be learnt” and that they would “do the same again.”

Commissioner Curtin pointed to the RFS’s investment in mobile bulk water solutions, including a new 75,000-litre mobile storage tank, 41 bulk water tankers, and six Tatra appliances (trucks with eight thousand litre capacity).

“It doesn’t address the issue of the time taken to get water to the fire ground for trucks to refill,” says a senior RFS volunteer and Community Bushfire Alliance member.

Supporters of the project say the benefits go well beyond the Hawkesbury and Blue Mountains the “water curtain” could act as a shield for Western Sydney itself against the threat of another Black Summer saying without this basic infrastructure, they will struggle to keep bushfires from having the devastating impact caused by the LA fires.

Everyday from 7am to 9pm

SW Fire Rescue Commissioner Jeremy Fewtrell BLOR Business Council Fiona Germaine NSW RFS Commissioner Trent Curtin.

BANDICOOTS IN THE HAWKESBURY… From ashes to a quiet comeback

„ BY TOM COVELL | HOOKED ON NATURE

WHEN the Black Summer fires tore through the Hawkesbury in 2019–20, the images that lingered were of blackened ridgelines and silent forests.

For months, it seemed the bush had lost its heartbeat. Yet in the years since, one of the Hawkesbury’s quietest residents the humble bandicoot has been scratching its way back into the story of local recovery.

Bandicoots are small, nocturnal marsupials with a long snout and a habit of leaving neat little diggings in lawns, gardens and bush tracks. In the Hawkesbury, two species are most often spotted: the long-nosed bandicoot (Perameles nasuta), common across Sydney, and the northern brown bandicoot (Isoodon macrourus), which thrives north of the Hawkesbury River. South of the river, in national

parks, the endangered southern brown bandicoot (Isoodon obesulus) holds on in fragile numbers.

Despite their modest size, bandicoots play a big role in bush health. Each night they turn over leaf litter and soil in search of insects, worms and fungi, aerating the ground and helping native plants grow. Ecologists call them “ecosystem engineers.” To lose them would be to lose a vital part of the bush’s natural repair crew.

The Black Summer fires burned more than 5.5 million hectares across NSW, including large parts of Wollemi National Park and the Grose Valley. For ground-dwelling mammals like bandicoots, the fires were devastating. Their shelters were scorched, and foxes and feral cats prowled the exposed ground.

Yet in the months that followed, a curious thing happened. Camera traps set up by conservation group Science for Wildlife across 90 sites, including the Hawkesbury, began recording movement. Among the brushtail

Call for disaster readiness enquiry

BUSINESS and community groups, together with concerned residents, are pressing for a parliamentary inquiry into disaster management in the Hawkesbury as communities get ready for the fire season.

The Hawkesbury is recognised as one of the most disaster-prone local government areas in NSW, with fires and floods that impact not only residents but the broader population of Western Sydney.

While floods bring financial and emotional distress, and at times loss of life, the air pollution from the Gospers Mountain fire and other Black Summer bushfires had far-reaching consequences across the Sydney Basin.

A Monash University study found a 3.2% increase in all-cause mortality among people over 65 in the days following exposure to smoke pollution. The Menzies Institute for Medical Research has also estimated that premature deaths and hospital admissions during the 2019-20 bushfire season generated around $2B in health costs.

“What happens in the Hawkesbury doesn’t stay in the Hawkesbury,” said Phil Bamford, President of the Hawkesbury Business Group. “When our region floods or burns, Western Sydney feels the impact. That’s why the State can’t afford to ignore the failures in local disaster planning.”

Neighbouring councils, particularly the Blue Mountains, have invested in stronger mitigation measures.

After the devastation of the Black Summer fires, sparked in part by escaped RFS strategic backburns, the Blue Mountains Council worked closely with its community to install more roadside water tanks, giving firefight-

possums, wallabies and bush rats, the bandicoots crept back.

Where the fires had been patchy or regrowth was quick, their scratching reappeared in the ash.

Wildlife researchers describe these species as part of the “critical weight range” small enough to be vulnerable to predators, but resilient if conditions turn in their favour. Fresh regrowth after fire, with its flush of shoots and insect life, can give them just that chance.

Pinning down whether bandicoots have truly “increased” in the Hawkesbury since the fires is tricky. Residents certainly report more sightings in backyards from Richmond to Kurrajong. Hawkesbury City Council encouraged residents to help classify footage from monitoring stations, and many delighted volunteers clicked through images of bandicoots snuffling at food trays.

On forums in the lower Blue Mountains, neighbours have shared stories of the long-nosed bandicoot “being back” in the streets for the first time in years.

people using apps like iNaturalist, it also suggests a genuine rebound where habitat is recovering.

Still, ecologists urge caution. In severely burnt zones where canopy and groundcover were stripped bare, recovery has been much slower. And predators remain foxes and feral cats take a heavy toll, especially in fragmented bushland around farms and suburbs. A surge in sightings may represent animals moving more boldly in search of food rather than a secure population boom.

For Hawkesbury residents, the return of the bandicoot is more than a scientific footnote. It’s a reminder that even in the face of disaster, the bush has ways of healing if given the chance. Each dig mark in the lawn, each blur on a night-vision camera, tells a story of persistence.

ers faster and safer access to water and expand Neighbourhood Safer Places (NSPs) to 32 designated refuges, offering last-resort safety for residents unable to evacuate.

By contrast, Hawkesbury Council has not adopted similar initiatives. Instead, through the Bushfire Management Committee it has opposed the creation of Neighbourhood Safer Places and other evacuation infrastructure, arguing, without evidence, that such facilities encourage residents to stay during emergencies.

It has also resisted roadside water installations, relying instead on increased aerial firefighting and bulk water carriers. Both strategies proved grossly inadequate during management of the Gospers Mountain blaze.

“Our neighbours in the Blue Mountains learnt hard lessons and acted,” said local resident and volunteer firefighter. “Here in the Hawkesbury, Council has done almost nothing. It’s not just disappointing, it’s dangerous.” This firefighter did not want to be named for fear of disciplinary action being taken by the RFS for talking to the media.

Hawkesbury Fire Control has already indicated that the same approach will be used again. Given that the Hawkesbury’s fire and smoke events affect millions across Western Sydney, this is not just a local concern but a Sydney wide issue of health and safety.

A parliamentary inquiry is being called for to examine Hawkesbury’s preparedness compared to similar LGAs; review reliance on outdated fire management strategies; recommend reforms in infrastructure and planning to protect residents of Hawkesbury and Greater Western Sydney.

Formal data supports these observations. The Atlas of Living Australia, which collates citizen science records, shows a marked rise in bandicoot records in the Hawkesbury since 2020 compared to the years immediately before. While some of that reflects more

Next time you notice small conical holes in your garden or glimpse a shy, snuffling marsupial under the shrubs, pause for a moment. The bandicoot is not just a survivor of fire it’s a symbol of the Hawkesbury’s resilience, scratching its way back, one paw full of soil at a time.

Council’s 70% rate rise in a decade

HAWKESBURY City Council is consulting on a new Special Rate Variation (SRV): 11.73% per year for three years from 2026/27 to 2028/29 (including an assumed 3.9% annual peg), permanently added to the rate base with normal peg limits resuming from 2029/30.

Council’s case leans on a $99.1M asset renewal shortfall today, forecast to hit $170M within 10 years without extra funding. Roads and stormwater are the centrepiece.

This critique puts that proposal in context, tests the numbers, and sets out the minimum transparency the community should demand before any “yes.”

The missing history: a permanent 31% already banked (2018)

In 2018, Hawkesbury received IPART approval for a three-year SRV that compounded to about 31% and was kept permanently in the rate base. That wasn’t a temporary emergency levy; it stepped up what we all pay forever.

If the public story is “we can’t catch up because costs surged and disasters struck,” the community deserves a clear, line-by-line accounting of what the 2018 rise delivered, how much backlog it removed, and what structural issues (scope creep, overruns, contractor capacity, flood recovery, supply inflation) erased those gains.

Right now, there’s no easy, single “SRV ledger” a resident can audit to reconcile 2018 promises against delivered works.

Takeaway: Before asking for another permanent rise, Council could show project by project what the last permanent rise achieved to assist the community in deciding.

Mind the compounding: it’s not “just three years at 11.73%”

The new SRV headline is “11.73% a year for three years.” But rates compound. Across those three years, the increase is roughly 39–40% on its own. When you stack that on top of the ~31% permanent lift from 2018, households are looking at a total increase well over 70% within about a decade.

The community impact is far larger than the neat 11.73% headline suggests. If Council wants trust, it must communicate using cumulative effects on an average bill, not annual slices that understate the real-world hit.

Takeaway: Be upfront about the total compounded change since 2018 so the community can decide on the value it is receiving for the rate rise.

Outputs aren’t outcomes: where are the gains?

Council’s exhibition outlines activity outputs: more kilometres resealed, more patches, more culverts renewed, more park furniture, more play space upgrades. Useful, yes. But they are inputs to improvement, not the improvement itself.

What ratepayers need to see are outcome metrics, such as:

• Pavement Condition Index (PCI) trends.

• Defect rates and roughness trends by road class.

• Percentage of the network in poor/very poor condition (before vs after).

“MAYOR LYONS BUCKETT 2018 30% RATE INCREASE PLUS MAYOR SHEATHER 2025 PROPOSED 40% INCREASE.”

• Backlog movement - the actual dollar reduction, not just spend totals.

• Unit costs (e.g., $/lane-km for reseal/rehab) and how they’re tracking.

If a permanent 31% rise in 2018 did not bend these lines the right way and the backlog still sit at $99.1 million the community needs a clear explanation: where did the money go, what assumptions failed, and how will this time be different?

Takeaway: Show hard, comparable condition data over time, not just activity lists.

Permanence cuts both ways

Like 2018, this SRV would stay in the base permanently. Permanence is powerful. Council gets a stable revenue step, but residents never get a step back. If Council wants another permanent uplift, it should match that with permanent transparency:

• A living, public SRV Works Ledger that tracks every SRV-funded job, scope, before/after photos, location, contractor, budget vs actual, and completion date.

• Quarterly outcome dashboards (PCI, defect rates, % network at end-of-life, backlog trend).

• A legally ring-fenced SRV reserve, with opening balance, inflows, outflows, and commitments.

• An independent external audit every year, plus random site verification.

• Service standards residents can see: pothole response, reseal cycle by road class, and a rolling 12-month program with a publicly reported “hit rate.”

Takeaway: If the rise is permanent, so must be the transparency.

Show the alternatives next to the SRV

A convincing business case sets out options, not just the preferred path. Ratepayers should see, side-by-side:

• Industrial land activation (e.g., Woodlands at Wilberforce): timing, proceeds, staged releases, and how those proceeds reduce pressure on rates.

• Surplus land rationalisation: what assets, what safeguards for amenity, what valuations, and what net proceeds are realistic.

• Grants: what’s secured vs speculative; the delivery risks; the match funding required.

• Debt vs rates: in a high-inflation, high-cost environment, when does prudent debt, repaid from growth in the business/industrial rate base, beat another permanent hit to households?

• Efficiency and structure: executive overheads vs front-line crews, contract models vs in-house capability (e.g., permanent local road crews responsible for defined zones), and savings redirected to asset renewal.

Takeaway: Publish a table that compares mixes of

SRV + land + grants + debt + efficiencies, with risks and timelines.

Delivery risk is the elephant in the works yard

The biggest reason communities lose faith is over-promise and under-deliver. Flood seasons, contractor shortages, price spikes, and supply bottlenecks can all blow out schedules. A credible SRV case must bring risks to the front page:

• A delivery risk register with mitigations (contingency budgets, alternative suppliers, ready-to-go packages).

• A phasing plan that prioritises safety-critical corridors and flood-prone assets.

• Clear escalation triggers (when targets are formally revised and why).

• Transparent unit-cost benchmarks so the public can tell whether we’re paying above market.

Takeaway: Don’t ask for permanent revenue with a “trust us” delivery plan.

EDITORIAL

What a fair deal would look like

Before Hawkesbury says yes to any permanent rate rise, Council should resolve to:

1. Publish the 2018 SRV ledger (promises vs projects vs outcomes) and lessons learned.

2. Show the cumulative bill impact since 2018 and through 2029 for an average household and typical farm/business, not just yearly percentages.

3. Ring-fence and report SRV funds quarterly, with project-level transparency and independent audit.

4. Commit to outcome targets, not just activity volumes: lift PCI by X points, reduce poor/very poor network by Y%, cut defect call-outs by Z%.

5. Table the alternatives (land activation, grants, prudent debt, efficiencies) so the SRV size and permanence can be trimmed where feasible.

6. Strengthen delivery capacity—including permanent local road crews responsible for defined zones—to improve responsiveness and accountability locals can feel.

Verdict -No blank cheques. Not this time.

Hawkesbury is being asked for another permanent step-up after a permanent ~31% rise in 2018. Framing the new proposal as “11.73% for three years” hides the real-world compounding that pushes total increases to well over 70% within about a decade. If Council wants a mandate, it needs to prove past value, show cumulative impacts, publish a ring-fenced and audited ledger, and present genuine alternatives alongside the rate rise.

The Hawkesbury Gazette will continue to follow this proposal in its online edition.

Mayor Lyons Buckett, Mayor Calvert, Mayor McMahon and Mayor Sheather.

Colo student celebrates art success

COLO High School is celebrating a moment of immense pride, with 2024 Year 12 graduate Evangeline CruzTabua (Evie) achieving recognition at the very highest level of HSC Visual Arts.

Evie’s HSC major work has been selected for ARTEXPRESS 2025, the annual showcase of exemplary student artworks from across New South Wales. In an even rarer honour, her piece has also been chosen for inclusion in the William Wilkins Collection—one of only five works to receive this distinction statewide.

Her ceramics will be exhibited for 12 months at the Department of Education building in Parramatta, where

the William Wilkins Collection has documented outstanding young artists since 1974.

For Evie, working with clay is deeply personal.

“Ceramics, for me, is both a me-

dium and a language through which I communicate the intersection of cultures and the multiplicity of my own heritage,” she explains.

“The act of shaping clay mirrors the act of shaping identity, as it is through

Myrtle Rust strikes Hawkesbury

„ BY PHIL BURKITT

“Ifirst noticed strange yellow dust on the new shoots of my trees, it wasn’t until he saw the tips curling, the leaves blistering, and the flowers collapsing that I realised something was very wrong.”

Myrtle rust is a plant disease caused by the fungus Austropuccinia psidii, native to South America. It affects plants in the Myrtaceae

family which includes eucalypts, melaleucas, lilly pillies, and many of the rainforest species that shape our landscape.

The disease appears as bright yellow powdery rust on young leaves, shoots, and flowers. It weakens plants, destroys new growth, and can kill seedlings outright.

With up to 80% of Australia’s native trees belonging to the myrtle family, the fungus is now considered one of the greatest biological threats to our forests and ecosystems.

What rentersHawkesbury must know

NSW has changed rules so rent increases can only happen once a year.

A recent change in NSW law means rent can now only be increased once per year offering tenants more certainty and fewer surprises. The only exception is short, fixed-term leases signed before 13 December last year , which may have different rules.

Hawkesbury’s rental market reflects a region in transition nestled between the city’s growth pressures and a desire for lifestyle change. According to the 2021 Census data, there are approximately 25,473 private dwellings in the Hawkesbury area, with households made up of an average of 2.8 people.

Of these, just under 20 percent are renters in private accommodation, while roughly 70 percent are either purchasing or fully own their homes.

In terms of affordability, median weekly rent in Hawkesbury was recorded at $400 in 2021.

However, more recent figures show a clear escalation, with advertised median weekly rent for standalone houses exceeding $630 in many suburbs reflecting a notable increase driven by market demand.

Rental prices vary depending on the property type, with units tending toward lower weekly rates closer to $450. Acreage properties and homes in semi-rural settings—like Glossodia,

McGraths Hill and Bligh Park—have become particularly sought-after, with some weekly prices surpassing $1,000 for premier listings.

With nearly 1 in 5 Hawkesbury households renting, the recent NSW law change limiting rent increases to once per year now directly benefits thousands of locals. This legislative reform comes as a welcome relief for renters navigating a tight market and cost of living crisis.

By using Services NSW Rent Check online tool Hawkesbury renters can now easily benchmark their rent against local suburbs - helping them negotiate more confidently with landlords or prepare for future market changes.

• If your rent goes up, you can check how it compares with others in your postcode using the Rent Check online tool.

• Rent Check allows you, in four simple steps, to find out the current weekly median rent range in any NSW postcode:

1. Go to the NSW Fair Trading / Rent Check site.https://www.nsw.gov. au/housing-and-construction/rentinga-place-to-live/rent-check

2. Enter your postcode.

3. Select the type of dwelling / number of bedrooms.

4. View the lower, median, and upper quartile weekly rents for similar properties.

this tactile process that I find a deeper understanding of my personal connection to the diverse traditions that have influenced me”

Colo High School staff are thrilled with the recognition. “To have Evie’s work acknowledged first by ARTEXPRESS and then by the William Wilkins Collection is an exceptional achievement,” a school spokesperson said. “She has shown not only immense skill but also profound insight, and we couldn’t be prouder.”

The Hawkesbury community can take pride in seeing one of its own talents celebrated on such a significant stage.

Myrtle rust spreads invisibly on the wind, threatening everything from backyard lilly pillies to vast stands of eucalypt forest. And the flow-on effects are alarming. Native animals like lorikeets, flying foxes, and honeyeaters rely on the nectar and fruit of Myrtaceae species. As the rust damages flowers and fruiting bodies, the food chain itself comes under strain.

Hours: Wed-Sun 12–3pm & 5:30–9pm

info@kurmondsocial.com.au

Kurmondsocial.com.au

Have you spotted Myrtle Rust in your garden or on your property? The NSW Department of Primary Industries urges residents to report sightings via the Biosecurity Hotline on 1800 680 244.

Cindy Cash at Ray White North Richmond wins another award

NORTH Richmond’s own Cindy Cash has once again been recognised as one of Australia’s leading real estate professionals, bringing national attention to the Hawkesbury.

Cindy, Sales Director at Ray White North Richmond is an 8-time Chairman’s Elite Performer, an honour reserved for the top one percent of agents across the Ray White network internationally. The award recognises exceptional sales results, client satisfaction, and dedication to excellence in the property market.

With more than 23 years’ experience, Cindy has risen through the ranks from administrative and support roles to become one of the most trusted names in real estate. She has lived in the Hawkesbury for more than three decades, raising her family here and building a deep knowledge of the community, its lifestyle, and its unique property market.

“I love helping people achieve their goals – whether it’s finding their dream family home, making the move to acreage, or securing a strong result when it’s time to sell,” Cindy said. “The Hawkesbury has given so much to me and my family, so every success I achieve in my career is also a reflection of this community.”

Cindy’s achievements extend far beyond sales volumes. She has built a reputation for authenticity and integrity, qualities that have earned her glowing client reviews and repeat business. In the past 12 months alone, she has sold more than 150 properties across the region, with median prices reflecting the strong confidence buyers place in her guidance.

Her expertise stretches across a wide range of property types – from townhouses and family homes to prestige lifestyle estates, equine properties, and vacant land. Her understanding of both the subur-

ban and rural sides of the Hawkesbury market sets her apart from many of her peers.

Ray White described Cindy as an “inspiring leader and an extraordinary talent,” noting her ability not only to deliver results but also to mentor and motivate those around her.

For Cindy, however, the awards are simply confirmation that her approach – staying genuine, working hard, and putting people first – continues to make a difference.

“This recognition means a lot, but at the end of the day it’s about people trusting me with some of the biggest decisions of their lives,” she said. “That’s not something I take lightly.”

The Hawkesbury Gazette congratulates Cindy Cash on her well-deserved recognition and celebrates the pride she brings to the North Richmond and wider Hawkesbury community.

Cindy's Career Achievements at a Glance

Recent Recognition:

• 2025 - Top 10 City Principals - Number of Sales - No. 4.

• 2025 - Top 10 City Principals - Settled Commission - No. 5.

• 2025 - International Principal - Settled Commission - No. 8.

Recent Success:

Cindy has sold 150+ properties sold in the past 12 months.

The median property sale price of these sales was $1.06M.

Her expertise is in family homes, prestige estates, equine & rural properties.

What Sets Cindy Apart

Cindy is one of the few women at the very top of Australia’s real estate. She has spent the last 30 years living and raising her family in the Hawkesbury and has a reputation for authenticity, professionalism, & deep local knowledge of our local area. Award winning agent, Cindy Cash.

Century celebration for women writers

„ BY BRADY JONES

LAST month, The Society of Women Writers NSW celebrated 100 years of storytelling, literature promotion and social network development.

This year the Society chose a Waratah flower as their icon, to symbolise their strength and unfolding power as a collective.

In September 1925, the first Society meetings were held by a small group of women writers at the Mary Elizabeth Tea Rooms in Sydney.

The first of which was chaired by Mrs Fred Aronsen [Zara Aronsen] who was a feminist, journalist and charity worker. Prolific Australian journalist Dame Mary Gilmore and novelist Ethel Turner were in attendance of these meetings.

Libby Hathorn, the Society of Women Writers NSW’s longest member, shared fond memories as a guest speaker at the recent lunch at Parliament NSW with over 120 members in attendance. She explored the society’s

values, whilst recalling the Society’s efforts to give Australian poet, Dorothea Mckellar a ‘real’ headstone that celebrated her life, with poetry etched onto Marble.

“If this society is about honouring women writers of the past, it’s also very much about finding, nurturing and encouraging women writers of all ages to find a voice and ways of sharing that voice sometimes exciting new ways, given the explosion of technology.” said Libby Hathorn.Photo and caption by John Bennett. The Premier, Chris Minns with with Jodie Harrison, Minister for Women, Minister for Seniors, Minister for the Prevention of Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault and the c’tee

As a young writer myself, studying creative writing in a deteriorating publishing landscape, it’s important for Society’s such as this to be celebrated and empowered to make a difference.

With this kind of support system available in Sydney, a passion for writing can be kept alive through fostering literature, friendship and togetherness. Paying homage to a long line of women

who came before them, the Society advocates for a light to be shone on female-led literature.

Over the decades, much has changed as women used to be recognised by their husband’s names and struggled to have their writing recognised or published. Currently with 200 members, the society has only grown stronger, continuing to support women writers and their ventures in the Australian journalism and publishing scene.

During the celebration, Libby took attendees on a journey through the years:

“From the thirties and through a grinding Depression and a devastating World War right through to the seventies when I joined as a young writer (encouraged by a friend from the NSW Dept of Ed.), the Society flourished. It expanded, encouraging many a writer or emerging writer in a host of ways, to write and to share and to write some more”.

The Society meets on the second Wednesday of every month (except January) at the State Library of NSW. The committee of volunteers hold

At the forefront of horse cloning

ON Grose Vale Road in North Richmond, world-leading science is quietly shaping the future of animal breeding. Catalina Equine has already cloned more than 80 foals, placing the Hawkesbury at the centre of Australia’s horse cloning industry and drawing global attention to the region.

The breakthrough work was recently profiled on ABC Radio’s The World Today, highlighting how cloning has moved from experimental science to everyday practice for elite breeders.

For polo, racing, and performance horse breeders, cloning is a way to keep irreplaceable bloodlines alive. Even skin cells from a horse that has passed away can be used to produce a genetic twin.

“Cloning isn’t about replacing nature it’s about protecting it,” said John Farren-Price of Catalina Equine. “It gives breeders a chance to preserve the genetic excellence of animals proven at the highest levels.”

Local polo player Ben Kay, who now rides a cloned horse, agreed: “These are horses you could never replace any other way.”

Not everyone is convinced. Professor Russell Bonduriansky from UNSW warns that cloning could narrow the genetic pool: “If we rely too heavily on cloning, we lose diversity.” That could make horses more vulnerable to disease or weaken future generations.

Scientists also point out that clones are not carbon copies. Training, upbringing, and environment still play a crucial role. A cloned champion is not guaran-

teed to be a new champion.

Catalina Equine offers not only cloning, but also advanced reproduction services such as embryo transfer and ICSI (intracytoplasmic sperm injection). What was once science fiction is now a commercial service operating from the Hawkesbury.

It’s a far cry from the days of Dolly the sheep the world’s first cloned mammal nearly 30 years ago. Today, horse owners travel to North Richmond for access to technology once thought impossible.

For a region known for polo fields, studs, and farmland, hosting Australia’s premier horse cloning centre is a remarkable achievement. It’s a blend of tradition and innovation and a point of pride for the Hawkesbury.

How Horse Cloning Works

Though it sounds futuristic, the steps are straightforward:

1. Collecting cells – A skin sample from the horse to be cloned is preserved.

2. Preparing an egg – DNA is removed from a donor mare’s egg.

3. DNA transfer – The original horse’s DNA is inserted into the egg.

4. Activation – A small electrical pulse triggers cell division.

5. Implantation – The embryo is placed into a surrogate mare.

6. Birth – A foal is born as a genetic twin of the original horse.

a variety of writing workshops and literary events along with several writing competitions, awards and grants. In addition, they publish a monthly e-newsletter, Women’s Ink! Magazine and yearly anthologies with their latest Ink 4 launched on September 10 2025. It was launched at the Centenary Luncheon by Susan Steggall who edited over 60 stories, articles and poems by 52 women writers.

If you’re someone who has a quiet passion for writing or hasn’t practised in a while, the best way is to simply get involved… share your stories with others, grow your literary world and connect with like minded people. You can start right here in the Hawkesbury by reaching out to local venues such as Hawkesbury Library who offer two free book clubs and The Hawkesbury Writers/Editors Group who meet every Monday of each month over zoom.

The Society of Women Writers NSW is just one example of the collective power to motivate literary passions and keep the fire alive for female led groups.

Breeders use it to preserve elite bloodlines when a horse dies young or cannot breed; extend performance success by replicating proven polo and performance horses; and for insurance against loss, protecting genetics that would otherwise disappear.

While cloning preserves genetics, every horse cloned or not still needs expert care, training, and the chance to develop its own story.

Equestrian standoff at Cladendown

THE future of the Clarendon dressage arenas at the Hawkesbury Showground has become the centre of a bitter standoff between the Hawkesbury District Agricultural Association (HDAA) and the equestrian community, with Hawkesbury City Council and the NSW Government now drawn into the dispute.

At issue is whether the long-serving arenas will continue to host equestrian sport or be demolished.

Since the late 1980s, Clarendon has been the home of dressage in NSW. Significant infrastructure was built through partnerships between Dressage NSW (DNSW) and the HDAA, which leases the Showground from Council until 2034.

DNSW held a licence from 2015 to June 2025 but announced it would not renew, citing ageing infrastructure, rising costs and lease uncertainty. While DNSW stepped aside, the state governing body, Equestrian NSW (ENSW), offered to take over and keep the facility alive.

Instead of negotiating with ENSW, the HDAA declared its intention to demolish the arenas once DNSW’s licence expired. That decision triggered strong community backlash. The “Save Clarendon” campaign quickly gained more than 3,000 signatures, with riders, trainers and local businesses warning of economic loss and the closure of a sporting landmark.

The Showground is Crown Land owned by the NSW Government, with Council the Crown Land Manager. Under legislation, no demolition or major change can occur without a Plan of Management in place.

On 19 June 2025, Council voted to pause demolition for 60 days, seek a written commitment from HDAA to allow events, and clarify

its legal powers. The move gave ENSW time to prepare a proposal, but Council acknowledged its influence is limited. It cannot override HDAA’s lease that rests with the Minister for Lands.

Despite Council’s push, HDAA declined mediation, even after ENSW offered to pay costs.

“ENSW put forward a proposal that was comprehensive, met every request of HDAA, and aligned with Crown Lands expectations,” said ENSW Vice President Vireena Peacock in Hansard. “We offered to cover maintenance, open the facility to more groups, and ensure fair access. HDAA dismissed our proposal without meeting or discussion.”

Council admitted it could not compel HDAA to participate, leaving negotiations at a standstill.

At its 9 September 2025 meeting, HDAA reaffirmed its plan to demolish the arenas, stating DNSW as the former tenant should pay for dismantling. ENSW again appealed for mediation, but Council ruled it had exhausted its powers.

Demolition cannot begin until HDAA lodges a Development Application with Council. Given DA processing times, opponents believe this may buy time for community opposition to build and for State Government intervention.

The Clarendon issue goes beyond equestrian sport. It raises questions about the future of public assets on Crown Land, the economic contribution of equine industries, and the ability of local communities to shape heritage decisions.

For now, demolition is paused, and lobbying continues. The equestrian community hopes the NSW Government will step in to secure a solution that preserves one of the state’s most significant sporting facilities.

Puppy expo set to return

„ BY LISA CHARNLEY

RAINS and minor flooding in May saw the Puppy’s & Paw’s Expo postponed, but this Spring it’s back bigger and better.

Hawkesbury locals can expect a tail-wagging day celebrating the bond between people and their pets.

At the centre of the event is Barking with Bianca, founded by animal advocate Bianca Santucci. Her path began with a childhood love of pets and took shape after leaving early childhood education due to workplace harassment. Volunteering at RSPCA Rouse Hill became her turning point.

“That’s where I found my happy place,” Bianca says. From there, her business grew to meet community demand for trusted dog training and pet care.

Today, Barking with Bianca provides obedi-

ence and therapy training, doggie daycare, pet sitting, and even visits for livestock all with Bianca’s personal touch. She meets each family, shares photos, and ensures pets are treated like her own.

Bianca sees her work as community building, with a vision to one day create a sanctuary that rescues, educates, and supports families including opportunities for neurodiverse adults to learn animal care.

The Expo is an exten-

sion of this spirit. Expect competitions (Best Farm Dog, Best Dressed Dog, Community Connector Dog), stalls, and activities such as free vet checks from SASH, wildlife education with WIRES, pet portraits, show bags, children’s art, natural treats, and even doggie reiki. Mascots Max and Gypsy, the sponsor dogs, will also greet visitors. Saturday 11 October Richmond Oval, 9am–2pm

RAAF BASE RICHMOND AT 100: A century in the Hawkesbury sky

ON 30 June 1925, three aircraft from No. 3 Squadron touched down on the broad fields of Ham Common.

That moment signalled the birth of RAAF Station Richmond, the first Royal Australian Air Force base outside Victoria, and the beginning of a partnership with the Hawkesbury that has now endured for a century.

This year, the base celebrated its 100th anniversary in style, throwing open its gates to thousands of visitors for a weekend of awe-inspiring flying displays, historic reflections, and a community celebration unlike any other.

Families, veterans, aviation enthusiasts, and locals of all ages came together to share in a moment of pride for both Defence and the region.

A century of service

From its early days training airmen between the wars, Richmond quickly grew into a wartime hub during the Second World War. It supported multiple squadrons, training units, and even housed a major RAAF hospital. In the decades that followed, the base became synonymous with air mobility, especially after the arrival of the C-130 Hercules in the late 1950s.

For generations, Hercules aircraft have lifted people, supplies, and hope to the most remote and disaster-stricken corners of Australia and beyond. Whether responding to bushfires, floods, or humanitarian crises overseas, the men and women of Richmond have ensured the Air Force could move

quickly when it mattered most.

Today, No. 37 Squadron still operates the Hercules from Richmond, and the next chapter is already being written with the government’s commitment to 20 new C-130Js, due to arrive from 2027. That investment guarantees Richmond will remain a cornerstone of Australia’s defence and disaster-response capability well into the future.

A celebration for the people

But the centenary wasn’t just about history or Defence capability it was about community. Locals gathered in their thousands to see Richmond at its best. From the roar of Hercules engines overhead to breathtaking aerobatic displays, visitors looked skyward in awe. On the ground, families explored heritage aircraft, spoke with Air Force personnel, and discovered stories that tied generations of service to the Hawkesbury heartland.

For many, it was also a time to reminisce. Veterans swapped stories of their time in uniform, parents explained the significance of the day to their children, and community members reflected on how closely tied Richmond and the Hawkesbury have become.

As the celebrations drew to a close, one message rang clear: RAAF Base Richmond is not just a Defence asset, but a neighbour, a partner, and a proud part of the Hawkesbury community.

For full coverage of the centenary celebrations, turn to our centrefold feature.

Cut your Commute: Open a Career Closer to Home

Why waste hours sitting in traffic when your next big opportunity is right here?

For over 45 years, Cornick Group has been leading Australian manufacturing, distribution and the implementation of smart technology solutions. With locations across Western Sydney, Cornick delivers modular housing, LED lighting, advanced security systems and electronics to customers across Australia and beyond.

We’re growing fast and we’re looking for people with energy, ideas and an entrepreneurial spirit to help shape the future and see their ideas come to life.

Whether you’re starting your career or stepping up to a new challenge, you’ll find real opportunities close to home - in a company that values initiative and rewards results.

We’re looking for inspired and talented individuals across all roles, including:

• Management & Leadership

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Outstanding collection of Hawkesbury art

„ BY DR BILLY GRUNER

THE winners of the biennial Hawkesbury Art Prize have been announced, with this year’s theme of Contemporary Identity inspiring a truly outstanding collection of works.

Taking out the coveted $15,000 award and a two-week residency is Julia Flanagan, a young artist whose striking geometric painting provocatively titled Maybe the Question Was Too Much to Ask captivated both visitors and judges alike.

Flanagan’s work stood out not only for its formal sophistication but also for the way it playfully interrogates modern identity.

She describes her practice as “riffs on random ideas and playful thinking, responding to the complicated and hectic world we are living in. Colourful contemplations on the complexities of self and our connections to the spaces we inhabit.”

Her work, along with fifty others, is currently on exhibition at Purple Noon Gallery, Freemans Reach. Each piece is available for sale at accessible prices, with proceeds supporting both the Art

FOR more than 40 years, The Women’s Cottage has supported vulnerable women and children in the Hawkesbury, providing safe and empowering services for those experiencing domestic violence, homelessness, and trauma.

Today, the Cottage is leading a bold new initiative to break the cycle of violence: the Re-

Prize itself and charitable initiatives, including a scholarship for a first-year student at the National Art School (NAS).

A Prize That Gives Back

The Hawkesbury Art Prize is privately owned and administered by Purple Noon Gallery, directed by the ever-spirited Dr Robyn Williams. Situated near the property where Arthur Streeton painted The Purple Noon’s Transparent Might in 1896, the gallery has become a cultural landmark.

Dr Williams notes her commitment to an approach that “intermixes the commercial, cultural and educative experience working alongside Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities, and place-oriented cultural practices.”

Generous sponsorships also play a vital role, including two artist residencies donated by Glenhuntly Estate at their Kurrajong property. Beyond this, the Prize contributes to the future of Australian art through its donation to the National Art School. NAS Director and CEO Dr Kristen Sharp, herself an esteemed academic, writer, and curator, was in attendance to present awards on behalf of the school.

An Invitation to Collectors and Art Lovers

For collectors, the Hawkesbury Art Prize offers a rare opportunity to acquire high-quality, affordable works by emerging and established artists. Each purchase contributes directly to sustaining the Prize,

supporting local artists, and funding opportunities for the next generation of creatives.

Whether you are drawn to Flanagan’s geometric brilliance, Wise’s fresh abstractions, or Morrison’s evocative landscapes, the exhibition at Purple Noon Gallery is well worth a visit.

Goal is deliver respect and skills

ducing Intergenerational Violence (RIV) Project.

Developed in partnership with the Community Bank North Richmond & Richmond of Bendigo Bank, the RIV Project is a 10-year program designed to reach every high school in the Hawkesbury.

Its goal is to equip young people with the skills to form safe, respectful relationships, seek help when needed, and challenge harmful behaviours before they become entrenched.

At the heart of the project is Love

Bites, a nationally recognised respectful relationships education program. Delivered in junior and senior high school, Love Bites combines interactive workshops and creative activities to engage students in exploring communication, respect, consent, gender roles, and how to recognise and respond to abuse.

Topics build year by year, helping students to gradually develop the confidence and skills to build healthy relationships.

The statistics highlight why this work

is urgent: one in four young Australians experience abuse in their teen relationships, and children who witness violence at home are more likely to repeat those patterns as adults. By intervening early, Love Bites aims to break this cycle and create lasting change.

The Women’s Cottage is now preparing to launch its first young women’s group in Term 4, 2025. To learn more or to support this vital work, contact The Women’s Cottage on 02 4578 4190.

Petition calls for human composting

„ BY LISA CHARNLEY

ALIVE petition before the NSW Parliament is calling for residents to be given the choice of human composting - a sustainable and community-led alternative to burial and cremation.

The petition, led by not-for-profit advocacy group Earthly Remains, is the result of several years of work by founder Tui Davidson, who first began researching environmentally sustainable body disposition methods in 2020.

“As an asthmatic, I became very concerned about the toxic emissions that result from cremation,” Davidson explains.

“Around 80 per cent of Australians choose cremation because burial is so expensive and land is finite, but research shows cremation pollutes our air and burial also takes a heavy toll when you consider cemetery maintenance.”

Tui Davidson, founder of Earthly Remains says natural burial often hailed as the greenest alternative is still problematic.

Davidson says leachates can enter waterways over time. She was inspired to explore other methods after learning that Archbishop Desmond Tutu chose water cremation (alkaline hydrolysis) for his own disposition.

“In Australia, where drought is an ongoing issue, aquamation didn’t feel like the final answer,” she says.

“But when I discovered the work of Katrina Spade in the United States (Recompose) on human composting, I became an instant fan. It just makes sense to me, to become part of the circle and cycle of life.”

In 2023 Davidson launched Earthly Remains, a not-for-profit dedicated to advocating for human composting in Australia.

“The funeral industry wasn’t moving on this. They were waiting for a market, and that kind of inertia meant it was up to communities to start the conversation. Death and disposition is as much a part of life as birth is and for people to go into debt to say goodbye is wrong.”

Her vision is not just for human composting to be legally available in NSW, but for it to be offered by community-led, not-for-profit organisations.

“Just like Tender Funerals has transformed the industry with their focus on transparency, authenticity, and affordability, I see a future where families can choose human composting. If they can’t use the soil in their own gardens, it could be donated to

regenerative land projects a genuine last gift to the planet.”

Davidson acknowledges that the practice will not appeal to everyone. But she has witnessed growing public support for sustainable alternatives.

“Five years ago, people shied away from even talking about death and disposition. Now, especially since Ray Martin’s documentary series The Last Goodbye, people are leaning into these conversations.”

She has been working with a network of end-oflife specialists with Jude Warren at the forefront beside Tui to establish a regulatory framework in NSW that would make human composting both legally recognised and safely implemented.

End of life specialist, Jude Warren has worked for many years in palliative and community care in both the Blue Mountains and the UK. While rewarding, nursing felt restrictive, and during her time in the UK she created a hospice-based wellbeing role, supporting people who were bereaved, living with illness, or caring for loved ones. That role opened up creative, community-led approaches to life and death.

When Jude returned to the Blue Mountains in June 2024, she was inspired by the growth of natural and holistic funeral services. This led her to found Eco Rest – Exploring Natural Death Matters, a community forum where people come together to discuss sustainable choices such as natural burials and human composting.

Human composting might sound confronting, but terms like Terramation can feel gentler. It’s a carefully developed process, first pioneered by Recompose founder Katrina Spade, and continues to be researched and refined. As Recompose explain:

“The biological process mimics the earth’s natural cycles in a controlled environment and is similar to what occurs on the forest floor as organic material decomposes and becomes topsoil. Human composting is powered by beneficial microbes that occur naturally on our bodies and in the environment.”

A single human body creates around 0.76 cubic metres of nutrient-rich soil, which can be returned to forests, reforestation projects, or gardens. In the US, regulation varies state by state, while in Germany the soil must be placed on consecrated ground. These are important considerations now facing NSW legislators.

To raise awareness and push for change, Jude brought together a working group including Tui Davidson, advocate and founder of Earthly Remains, and Bec Lyons, president of the Natural Death Advocacy Network (NDAN). Together they are calling for Australians to have this sustainable death care choice and that’s why signing the petition is so important.

This movement isn’t just for environmentalists. It matters to anyone who cares about land, legacy, and future generations. Animal composting is already well established in agriculture; human composting is simply an urban solution to the same natural cycle. As Earthly Remains say:

“Everybody can help the planet.”

Many people dream of returning to nature when they die. What they often don’t realise is that cremation ashes offer no nutrient value to the earth, while human composting gives back as deep, rich soil.

“This is about choice. For people who want their final act on earth to be giving back, this offers a meaningful, ecological option.”

Tui Davidson

The petition is currently live and open for signatures. To learn more about the process of human composting, visit www. earthlyremains.com.au To sign the petition, please see NSW Parliament Petition

You are not entitled to your opinion!

„ BY KOORYN SHEAVES

DURING a vigorous discussion at a Gazette Editorial team meeting, I found myself making this statement "You are not entitled to your opinion!". This argument was first put forward by Patrick Stokes (2012) in Australian The Philosopher’s Magazine.

Stokes challenges the common phrase “everyone is entitled to their opinion.” that while people certainly have the legal right to hold opinions, in rational discussion and debate you are not automatically entitled to have your opinion treated as equally valid unless you can back it up with reasons and evidence.

People often invoke “I’m entitled to my opinion” to shut down criticism, as though stating something is enough but this undermines serious discussion.

In serious discussion where we expect others to listen, respect, or act on what we say, then we have a responsibility to back it up our opinion with reasons and evidence.

Stokes’ point wasn’t to silence people but to remind us that opinions have consequences. In matters that affect our neighbours, communities, and shared future, tossing opinions around without support isn’t just unhelpful it can be irresponsible.

The next time someone or even you reaches for “I’m entitled to my opinion,” remember Stokes’ challenge. The right to speak is just the start. The real

value of an opinion lies in the reasons and evidence behind it.

Tips for Building a Strong Opinion

Having an opinion that stands up in discussion takes effort. Here are a few simple ways to make sure your opinion carries weight:

1. Check the facts

Base your view on reliable sources, not just headlines or hearsay.

2. Ask yourself “why?”

If someone challenges you, can you explain why you hold that opinion?

3. Listen to expertise

Recognise when specialists know more science, history, law, and local knowledge matter.

4. Be open to change

A strong opinion isn’t fixed forever. New evidence can (and should) shift your perspective.

5. Respect the stakes

If your opinion could affect others’ lives, businesses, or community wellbeing, take extra care to support it.

Backing herself and her community

„ BY SALLY DULSON

WHEN Lani opened her first Pilates studio during COVID from her family’s home in Blaxlands Ridge, she had big dreams of bringing the teachings of Joseph Pilates to the people of the region. Now, just a few years later, she is welcoming clients into a two-storey, lightfilled space in Richmond.

The move marks a major step forward for her business, Pilates Jeanie a play on her middle name, Jean and a bold investment in both her vision and the Hawkesbury community.

“I always knew I wanted to expand,” Lani says. “I wanted natural light, greenery, and a space where people felt safe and inspired. This studio is exactly that. It’s been a leap of faith, but I knew the community would back me.”

The Hawkesbury has been quick to embrace Pilates Jeanie’s new home. From welcoming words when she signed the lease to locals stopping her in the street after spotting her posters, Lani says the support has been overwhelming.

“It really shows that Hawkesbury is behind women in business,” she says. “I’ve felt nothing but encouragement, and that means everything when you’re taking on something this big.”

For Lani, Pilates isn’t just about fitness it’s about rehabilitation, empowerment, and education. She sees her role as helping peo-

ple take control of their bodies, strengthen safely, and recover from injuries.

That became clear when, in the middle of our interview, James walked in. He explained he was living with a spinal fusion. After trying both chiropractic care and exercise physiology with little success, he turned to Lani having researched Pilates extensively and learned it could be the best way to rehabilitate. He wanted to get back to living and moving in a way he could trust.

“That’s what Pilates is about helping people understand their

bodies and rebuild confidence,” Lani told me after he had left.

So what exactly is Pilates?

“If we want to understand what Pilates is, in essence, Pilates is a form of rehabilitation and strength training. It’s an intelligent form of exercise it makes you think about and connect your mind to your body. It works to stabilise your joints and creates a deep understanding of the inner workings of your body. And when it’s taught correctly, it allows you to take control. That’s how we regain our personal power, which I think a lot of people have lost because we’re so used to handing our bodies over and saying, ‘fix me.’ But the truth is, the only person who can fix you is yourself.”

She adds that Pilates is about fine-tuning movement patterns. “If you focus on the small things, eventually it becomes a whole. As instructors, our job is to look at how a body moves, identify imbalances, and work to correct them.”

Lani brings both academic and practical expertise to her work. She is a Pilates Master Trainer, qualified to teach and educate other instructors, and she also

Thrive Festival returns in 2025

„ BY LISA CHARNLEY

AFTER the overwhelming success of its 2024 launch, the Thrive Festival is back in 2025, promising an even bigger celebration of wellbeing, creativity, and community. This free community event, hosted by Hawkesbury Community Outreach Services Inc. with the support of Hawkesbury City Council, will take place at McMahons Park, Kurrajong on October 25 from 11am – 5pm. The festival blends workshops, live performances, and hands-on

learning, offering something for all ages. From yoga and sound healing to holistic health sessions, the program is designed to recharge both body and mind.

At its core, Thrive champions eco-education and sustainability. Interactive talks and demonstrations will share practical, everyday strategies to reduce waste and make more mindful choices, empowering attendees to embrace a healthier planet and lifestyle.

Music lovers will be treated to a stellar lineup of local talent, with the headline act being Abby Dobson, be-

studied Exercise Science at university.

That combination, she says, is what sets her studio apart. “Real Pilates requires deep knowledge of anatomy and biomechanics. That’s what ensures people can move safely and actually improve.”

Despite Pilates’ proven benefits, it is not yet universally recognised as an Allied Health profession. This means that whether clients can access funding through claims often depends on the discretion of their case manager which is exactly what James is dealing with.

“It’s frustrating, because we know how effective Pilates can be,” Lani says. “But change is coming. From December, a member of our studio will be formally recognised as an Allied Health professional, which will make it easier for people like James to access the care they need.”

Pilates Jeanie offers reformer classes, private sessions, and semi-private sessions, meaning there’s something for every stage of life, fitness level, or rehabilitation need.

And while the new studio is busy, Lani stresses there is still space. “We have room for more locals to join us,” she says. “This is a safe space where people are seen and supported. It doesn’t matter where you’re starting from there’s a place for you here.”

From her beginnings as a 15-year-old moving with her family to Blaxlands Ridge, to launching a home studio during COVID, to now operating a flagship Richmond space, Lani’s story is one of backing herself and being backed in turn by her community.

“This is what Pilates Jeanie is about,” she says. “Helping people move, feel stronger, and be supported. And the Hawkesbury has made it possible.”

The Pilates Jeanie studio is located across the road from the RAAF base at 1/40 Bowman St, Richmond NSW 2753. Drop by and see what Pilates Jeanie can do for your body. Text or phone 0416 980 553 lani@thepilatesjeanie. com.au

loved for her soulful voice in Leonardo’s Bride. Her heartfelt performance will set the tone for a day of connection and celebration. With its unique mix of entertainment, education, and community spirit, Thrive Festival 2025 is shaping up to be one of the Hawkesbury’s most anticipated events. Whether you come to relax, learn, dance, or connect, you’ll leave inspired and ready to thrive.

For updates on stallholders, performers, and festival news, follow the official Facebook event page:Thrive Wellness Festival 2025.

The Pilates Jeanie.

ENTERTAINMENT CROSSWORD

ACROSS

2 1999 family comedy based on the novel by E. B. White, – Little (6)

4 He won the Oscar for Best Supporting Actor at the age of 82, Christopher – (7)

9 Australian psychological horror, the directorial debut of Jennifer Kent (pictured) (3,8)

11 DC Comics blockbuster starring Joaquin Phoenix in the title role (5)

28 Actor known for his roles as a villain in The Good, the Bad and the Ugly and For A Few Dollars More, Lee Van – (5)

29 1980s horror comedy classic directed by Joel Schumacher (3,4,4)

30 Golden Globe-winning actor for his role as ‘Nucky’ Thompson in Boardwalk Empire, Steve – (7)

31 Ian Smith’s long-running Neighbours character, – Bishop (6)

No. 047

10 Star of Children of Men and guest star of 22-across, Clive – (4)

14 Talk show host and actress, – Winfrey (5)

15 Iconic wrestler who played Fezzik in The Princess Bride, – the Giant (5)

16 Worldwide annual film festival highlighting outdoor adventure films, – Film Tour (4,4)

18 Sci-fi spin-off from Doctor Who (9)

20 Canadian actor of The Tudors and Vikings, Lothaire – (7)

21 Steven Soderbergh’s 2000 crime drama, winner of four Oscars (7)

23 Computer-animated comedy about penguin surfers (5-2)

24 David Fincher’s highestgrossing film, – Girl (4)

25 US actress and singer, known for roles in The Office and Monk – Hardin (6)

27 He played the title role in the Magic Mike films, Channing – (5)

HIDDEN WORD

12 He played Cam Delray in the Jack Irish series and detective Jay Swan in Mystery Road (5,8)

Insert each number from 1 to 9 in the shaded squares to solve all the horizontal and vertical equations.

13 1980s Brat Pack actor and brother of Charlie Sheen, – Estevez (6)

Multiplication and division are performed before addition and subtraction.

15 He portrayed Steve Jobs in the bio Jobs and stars as Colt Bennett in The Ranch, – Kutcher

16 Late actor and comedian and the father of actors Jason and Tyler, John – (6)

17 Michael C. Hall’s serial killer drama (6)

19 Actress in Schindler’s List who played Miss Honey in Matilda, – Davidtz (6)

22 Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant’s sitcom (6)

26 2002 biographical drama directed by and starring Denzel Washington (7,6)

DOWN

1 Jerry Zucker comedy starring Rowan Atkinson and Whoopi Goldberg (3,4)

2 Ex-pop star of S Club 7 who plays Abby Maitland in Primeval, Hannah – (9)

3 2008 film starring Kate Winslet and Ralph Fiennes, The – (6)

Insert

5 Jean-Claude van Damme’s character in The Bouncer (5)

6 2019 drama starring Peter Sarsgaard as journalist Walter Duranty (2,5)

NOTe: more than one solution

7 Star of The Dark Knight and Sully, Aaron – (7)

8 Mike Leigh’s bio drama starring Timothy Spall in the title role (2,6)

1. What is the name of Danson’s character in Netflix series The Good Place?

A. Martin

B. Michael

C. Matthew

Maverick

2. What does he play in The Good Place?

A. A police officer B. A plumber

An architect

An engineer

3. How many Emmy awards has he won?

Two

Three

Four

Five

4. In Cheers, Danson played a bartender who formerly played baseball for what team?

New York Yankees B. Chicago Cubs C. Houston Astros D. Boston Red Sox

Te D DANSON

October 22 | Hall 5A | Sydney Showground | Sydney Olympic Park | From 9am

Exprience FREE speakers and expert panels.

• AI in Action: Hype, Help or Hindrance? 9.30AM

Founder shares how the CEO Sleepout went global. 10.30AM

• CashNO to CashFLOW – Business Growth and Performance Strategies. 11.30AM

• Trademark Expert Shares Insider Tips for Success. 12.30PM

• Creating Social and Digital Marketing ROI in 2025. 1.15PM

• The Fixers: From Stress to Strategy in Cash Flow, Tax Debt & Finance. 2.15PM

•

• Grow Your Business with Smart Solutions. 3.15PM

Property

THE CHANGING FACE OF THE HAWKESBURY: From food bowl to lifestyle destination

THE Hawkesbury region, once known as the “food bowl of the nation,” is rapidly transforming into one of Sydney’s most desirable

lifestyle destinations.

With its unique blend of rural charm, natural beauty, and emerging infrastructure, the area west of the river offers ex-

A boutique approach to real estate, with elevated professionalism catering to premium and middle markets in select lifestyle locations

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D ynamic, knowledgeable and client-centric Strategic marketers, superior salespeople, genuine customer ser vice professionals Australia’s leading real estate provider

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02 4571 2200

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ceptional value for homebuyers seeking space, tranquility, and community.

Exceptional Property Value in the Hawkesbury

One of the standout features of the Hawkesbury is its affordability, particularly when it comes to properties with rural zoning. For example, a home in Redbank on a modest 700m? block can command prices up to $1.8 million, however, just a 10-minute drive further out to East Kurrajong, buyers can find much larger parcels around 10 acres with homes and sheds for a similar price, albeit more dated. This presents an incredible opportunity for those wanting a rural lifestyle without the Sydney price tag. This value proposition, however, is poised for change. The NSW State Government is showing strong support of detached dual occupancy on rural land within the Hawkesbury LGA a move driven by demand and the ongoing housing crisis. This means owners of rural properties in the Hawkesbury could soon have the option to build a second dwelling on their land. Such a development is expected to be formalized around 2026.

Dual Occupancy: A Game Changer for Rural Living

The introduction of detached dual occupancy on rural properties could transform the appeal of rural living in the Hawkesbury. This change would allow families to accommodate aging parents, help children enter the property market, or even provide rental income through an additional dwelling. For multi-generational families or investors interested in the “lifestyle dream” of open spaces and fresh air, this is promising news.

Infrastructure Developments Fuel Growth

The Hawkesbury’s evolution isn’t limited to zoning reforms. Significant infrastructure projects are set to enhance connectivity and accessibility, which will further boost the region’s attractiveness.

One of the most impactful projects is the construction of a new four-lane bridge at North Richmond, designed to reduce road closures during flood events a recurring issue in this low-lying approach area. This bridge will dramatically improve commuters’ experience, reducing disruptions to daily life and supporting growth. Complimented by a brand-new bridge over the Grose River will begin construction, easing travel for residents heading south and connecting the region more seamlessly with broader Sydney and surrounding areas.

Exciting New Developments on the Horizon

2026 will also mark the commencement of property development in the new Jackaranda estate in Glossodia. This lifestyle estate will feature spacious lots, ranging from 1,000m? to 1-acre properties, catering to buyers seeking more generous land parcels in a serene rural setting. Further expansion is anticipated within the Redbank estate, with more large lot residential homes to be included within this announcement. These projects continue to position the Hawkesbury as a premium lifestyle destination within the Sydney basin, balancing natural beauty with modern amenities.

Looking Ahead: Growth and Opportunity

All these factors the introduction of dual occupancy, major infrastructure upgrades, and new residential estates combined with the looming opening of the Western Sydney International Airport, signal strong growth for the region. Property values in the Hawkesbury are expected to rise significantly over the next one to two years, attracting buyers and investors looking to capitalize on the area’s upside.

If you’re curious about the current value of your property or want to explore opportunities in this vibrant market, feel free to reach out. As always, expert advice is offered free of charge, and I’m available to answer any questions you may have.

The Hawkesbury’s transformation is underway, and for those looking for lifestyle, value, and future growth, there has never been a better time to own property in the Hawkesbury.

Ray White Property Showcase

Plynlimmon, 941 Grose Vale Road, Kurrajong

A heritage gem in the foothills, rich in stories & potential

Nestled just over an acre of terraced gardens, stone paths and whispering verandahs, Plynlimmon is more than just a home it’s an invitation to step into a tapestry of time, nature and possibility. Located at 941 Grose Vale Road in the bucolic embrace of Kurrajong, this rare estate marries 19th-century charm with modern comforts the kind of property dreams are made of.

A Home of Two Halves: Original Cottage + Companion Studio

At its heart lies the circa 1860s timber cottage: elegant, enduring, and full of presence. With soaring 10-foot ceilings, wide Baltic Pine floorboards, original fireplaces and bull-nose verandahs, every room speaks of craftsmanship and care. The cottage comprises two generous bedrooms (both appointed with fireplaces), a period-style bathroom and multiple, light-filled living areas that open via French doors onto shady wraparound verandahs. A vintage Metters stove joins modern appliances in the farmhouse kitchen, marrying history with functioning daily life.

Complementing the heritage cottage is a beautifully finished, modern New England–style double-storey studio built about 10 years ago. Polished Sydney Blue Gum floors, ducted reverse-cycle air, underfloor heating, elegant bathrooms and lofty ceilings all lend luxury to this secondary dwelling. With three bedrooms, three bathrooms and an open-plan living zone that spills to private courtyards, it is ideal for guests, extended family, or an income-earning venture.

Gardens, Outbuildings & Atmosphere

Set on approximately 4,047 m? (just over one acre), the property is framed by meandering paths, dry stone walls, mature gardens, hedges, fruit trees and specimen plantings. A magnificent century-plus Moreton Bay fig tree anchors the grounds, offering both scale and serenity.

A rustic timber slab barn provides scope for

workshops, studios, storage or creative reuse. Meanwhile, infrastructure includes water tanks, bore and reticulation, ensuring both beauty and sustainability in the garden environment.

Lifestyle & Location: Peace with Connection

Sitting in the foothills of the Blue Mountains yet only about an hour’s drive from Sydney, Plynlimmon offers a tranquil rural lifestyle without cutting ties to the city. The leafy locale of Kurrajong is known for its village character, local produce, relaxed pace and scenic outlooks.

Privacy is assured: the cottage is tucked behind mature hedging and garden screens. Dry stone walls

Belle Property Showcase

TUCKED away in a whisper-quiet cul-de-sac, this brand-new Hampton style residence is a rare find in the heart of Kurmond. Set proudly on a full acre, the home is the perfect blend of timeless charm and modern luxury, designed to provide comfort, style and functionality for the whole family.

From the moment you arrive, the home impresses with its fresh architectural lines, lightfilled interiors and premium finishes. With four generously proportioned bedrooms three featuring their own walk-in robes there’s space for everyone to enjoy.

The oversized triple garage, complete with massive under-house storage, is ideal for car enthusiasts, tradies, or those who simply need room for extra belongings, a workshop, or recreational gear.

Step inside and discover a thoughtfully designed home, loaded with quality inclusions throughout. The open living spaces flow seamlessly to serene outdoor outlooks, offering a private sanctuary surrounded by a peaceful rural backdrop.

This is the very first time the property will be occupied everything is brand new and ready for you to move straight in.

Property Highlights:

• One perfect acre in a quiet cul-de-sac location.

and terraced gardens create intimate outdoor rooms and quiet retreats. Meanwhile, broad verandahs invite lounging, reading, or slow mornings with garden views.

A Rare Opportunity: Live, Earn, Or Both

Plynlimmon is more than a home it’s a canvas for creative possibilities. The property’s dual dwellings enable flexible usage: live in the heritage cottage and let the studio generate income (Airbnb, retreat, guesthouse); or adapt both as a family compound.

Historically, this estate has seen use as a boutique wedding venue, capitalizing on its photogenic gardens, dreaming courtyards and the expansive estate for event setup. For those looking to build a business or lifestyle venture in hospitality, art, wellness or simply a multiple-dwelling setup, Plynlimmon is uniquely poised.

Key Features at a Glance

• Five bedrooms, four bathrooms across two dwellings (cottage + studio).

• Approx. 4,047 m? land, terraced gardens, expansive grounds.

• Heritage cottage: fireplaces, period character, verandahs, original floors.

• Studio: modern amenities, climate control (ducted air, underfloor heat), luxe bathrooms, open plan living.

• Barn / outbuilding, water infrastructure (tanks, bore), garden reticulation.

• Privacy, mature landscaping, iconic mature fig tree, curated paths & walls.

• Zoned RU4 / rural-residential, providing flexibility in use (subject to council approvals).

The Invitation

Plynlimmon is not just a house it is a legacy, a retreat, a business canvas, and a sanctuary. It invites discerning buyers to step into a world where the whispers of history mingle with modern aspiration. The chance to own a property of this depth, beauty and flexibility is rare. Book an inspection and let the gardens, verandahs and hidden corners speak for themselves.

• Brand new Hampton style home be the first to live here.

• Four spacious bedrooms, three with walk-in robes.

• Oversized triple car garage plus huge under-house storage.

•· Designed with premium inclusions and modern convenience in mind.

• Outstanding rural outlook with privacy and tranquillity.

This property combines the best of semi-rural living with close proximity to amenities, schools, and transport. Homes of this calibre and setting are rarely offered and won’t last long.

Auction: Friday 11th October at 3pm.

Contact the selling agent today to arrange your inspection.

FoodiE

How to preserve... THE HAWKESBURY WAY

SPRING has well and truly arrived in the Hawkesbury, and with it comes a fresh wave of produce to enjoy and preserve. While the full stone fruit harvest lies ahead in summer, right now our region is rich with citrus, leafy greens, strawberries, and herbs. October is the perfect time to capture these flavours and set them aside for the months ahead.

Sunshine in a Jar Citrus has long been a staple in the Hawkesbury, and many locals still have old lemon or orange trees tucked into their backyards. When the trees are in full season, you can find yourself citrus-rich and struggling to give fruit away fast enough. But when the off-season arrives, we want nothing more than to have that abundance preserved and ready to use. That’s why more people are turning to traditional methods: lemon marmalade, orange cordial, preserved lemons, or even a tangy lime curd is simple yet

delicious ways of making sure this season’s citrus doesn’t go to waste and can be enjoyed year-round.

Schofields Orange Orchard (42 Yarramundi Lane, Agnes Banks) is a long-standing local citrus grower that sells Navel oranges, mandarins, honey and more. For locals and toursits alike, Schofields farm gate shop remains a popular stop for fresh citrus and bottled juice through Spring.

Herbs are also at their prime in spring. Fresh parsley, basil, mint, and thyme can be transformed into pestos, infused oils, vinegars, or herb butters flavour-packed staples that bring gardens to winter meals. A jar of mint jelly is an especially welcome addition to lamb roasts and barbecues as summer approaches. With Richmond Fruit Market (Shop 10 Park Mall 209-211 Windsor Street, Richmond) celebrating 40 years of business this October, be sure to stop by for their extensive range of herbs, oils and vinegars.

PRESERVED LEMONS

Preserved Lemons

A Middle Eastern classic that transforms humble lemons into a flavour powerhouse for salads, roasts, and tagines.

Ingredients (1 large jar):

• 5–6 unwaxed lemons.

• 4–5 tbsp coarse sea salt.

• Juice of 2–3 extra lemons.

• Sterilised 1-litre jar.

Method:

1. Quarter lemons almost to the base, leaving attached.

2. Pack with salt, then press into jar.

3. Add remaining salt and cover fully with lemon juice.

4. Seal and leave at room temp for 2–3 days, shaking daily.

5. Store in a cool, dark place (or fridge) for at least 4 weeks.

To use: Rinse, discard flesh, and finely chop rind. Keeps up to 12 months.

Never Preserved?

Join a Workshop

Workshops and preserving classes in the Hawkesbury region are actively helping locals learn these skills and share recipes. One notable example is Permaculture Hawkesbury Valley Inc's “Home Canning & Preserving Workshop” held at the Hawkesbury Earthcare Centre in Richmond on November 8th. The workshop covered safe techniques for water bath canning and pressure canning, including practical hands-on sessions using locally sourced produce.

Canned heat for seasons to come

Preserving in spring is more than just stretching the harvest; it’s about resilience and community connection. By filling the pantry now, households create a buffer against rising food costs and supply chain disruptions later in the year. For a region that has weathered floods and fires, having shelves lined with jars of preserved citrus or herb-

based condiments is both practical and comforting. These preserves carry the story of the land and the season. Sharing them with neighbours, swapping jars at local markets, or gifting them to friends fosters the homesteading philosophy of “waste not, want not” and strengthens the ties that bind Hawkesbury communities together.

Spring Preserving Guide — Hawkesbury, October

What’s in season now:

• Citrus: lemons, oranges, limes.

• Herbs: mint, basil, parsley, thyme.

• Early strawberries.

• Asparagus, broad beans, leafy green.

SPRING ASPARAGUS & LEMON PICKLES WITH THYME

Spring Asparagus & Lemon Pickles with Thyme

These quick pickles are crisp, tangy, and full of seasonal flavour. They’re perfect as a side for barbecues, tossed into salads, or served with cheese and cold meats.

Ingredients (makes 2 medium jars):

• 2 bunches fresh asparagus, trimmed.

• Zest of 1 lemon, cut into thin strips.

• 2 cloves garlic, peeled and lightly crushed.

• 4 sprigs fresh thyme.

• 1? cups white vinegar.

• 1? cups water.

• 2 tbsp sugar.

• 1 tbsp coarse salt.

• 1 tsp black peppercorns.

Method:

1. Prepare jars: Sterilise 2 medium glass jars (approx. 500 ml each).

2. Blanch asparagus: Bring a pot of salted water to the boil. Add asparagus spears and blanch for 1 minute. Drain and plunge into ice water to keep them crisp and green. Pat dry.

3. Pack jars: Divide asparagus spears, lemon zest, garlic, and thyme sprigs between jars.

4. Make brine: In a saucepan, combine vinegar, water, sugar, salt, and peppercorns. Bring to a boil, stirring to dissolve sugar and salt.

5. Fill jars: Pour hot brine over asparagus, ensuring spears are fully submerged. Seal jars immediately.

6. Cool and store: Let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate. Flavour develops

after 24 hours and deepens over a week.

Storage: Keeps up to 2 months in the fridge.

Serving idea: These lemon & thyme asparagus pickles are delicious alongside grilled lamb, tossed into spring salads, or simply as a crunchy snack straight from the jar.

Meals on Wheels in the Hawkesbury

MEALS on Wheels first began serving the Hawkesbury in 1967.

At that time, many older residents in rural and semi-rural parts of the district were struggling with limited access to shops and services. Families and neighbours helped where they could, but there was a growing recognition that something more structured was needed.

That year, a group of local community members and service-minded residents came together to establish a Meals on Wheels service. Their goal was simple but powerful: to ensure no older person in the district went without a proper meal or regular human contact

Nearly 60 years later, the program is still running strong. Today it is operated by 4 part time staff working alongside a team of 64 dedicated volunteers. Together, they carry on the tradition of care and community connection that Meals on Wheels was built on.

Meals on Wheels is available to older residents, people living with disability, or those recovering from illness or hospital stays who may find preparing meals difficult.

Residents can self-refer or be referred by a family member, registering through My Aged Care.gov.au is required to receive subsidised meal rates. Choose from a wide range of main meals, light meals, soups and desserts. All meals are overseen by a dietitian, include a side of vegetables, and are nutritionally balanced.

Deliveries are made in the morning between 9:00 am and 12:00 pm. Available days depend on where the client lives

Hawkesbury rates are for a main meal $8.50 after subsidy with dessert and soups $4.50 after subsidy. Private unsubsidised clients pay more and all

customers must be registered with myagedcare.gov.au (assistance to do this is available).

Clients can contact Hawkesbury Meals on Wheels on (02) 4571 1633 or 45 711 655 or drop in weekdays to Shop 3 / 36 Riverview Street, North Richmond between 9am and 1:30pm.

The secret lives of plants

„ BY ERIS BROKEN

WHEN you walk in a garden, you might think of plants as silent, passive lifeforms just greenery to trim or admire.

Recent scientific discoveries are turning that idea on its head. It turns out, plants are more aware and interactive than what many people imagine.

Many now explore the strange and fascinating world of plant intelligence. Yes, intelligence.

Scientists are learning that plants can “talk” to each other not with words, but through chemical signals.

Some trees can warn their neighbours when pests are coming. Others, like wild beans, will change their root patterns to avoid crowding nearby plants.

And vines like Boquila trifoliolata can even change the shape of their leaves to mimic others nearby like plant-level costume changes for survival.

Plants seem to have a kind of memory. In one experiment, a touch-sensitive plant called Mimosa pudica learned to stop closing its leaves when it realized the touch wasn’t harmful. That’s not just reaction that’s learning.

These findings aren’t just for scientists they carry a message for all of us.

Plants are not lone survivors. They thrive by listening, responding, and adapting to those around them.

In many ways, they model a kind of silent cooperation that humans can have especially when

it comes to how we grow food, support local ecosystems, and build stronger communities.

That’s where community gardening comes in and our ‘love affair’ with nature and our community is nurtured and blossoms.

“The Hawkesbury has a proud tradition of coming together to meet the needs of its community, and Meals on Wheels is a shining example of that history now carried forward with gratitude by the next generation.” Thank you from the Hawkesbury Gazette Team.

1/10/25 Ori’s Bar 6:30pm Windsor Ukelele Night

3/10/25 The Windsor Gas Lamp festival 4 days (3rd-6th Oct) Windsor Mall 6pm Live Entertainment on Saturday night Battle of the Bands on Sunday

3/10/25 Bligh Park Hotel 8pm-11pm Clive Hay

4/10/25 Bligh Park Hotel 8pm-11pm Joseph Trueman

4/10/25 The Windsor Gas Lamp festival 4 days (3rd-6th Oct) Windsor Mall 6pm

Live Entertainment on Saturday night Battle of the Bands on Sunday Shep & Gordo on the main stage at 7pm

5/10/25 The Australian Hotel McGraths Hill 3pm Picasso’s Ear

5/10/25 Macquarie Boathouse 11:30am-2:30pm The Funhouse – Jeff Falon & Janice

5/10/25 The Richmond Inn 1-4pm Shep & Gordo

5/10/25 Hawkesbury Night Markets, Hawkesbury Showground Free 5pm-10pm Live Music Till Late

5/10/25 October Long Weekend at The Vineyard 12pm-late Live Music, Food,and Footy

5/10/25 Hillbilly Cider 12-3pm Will Lander

5/10/25 The Australian Hotel, McGraths Hill 3pm Anyhow...Picassos Ear

7/10/25 Bligh Park Hotel 7:30pm-10:30pm Weekly Jam Night with Rick Kelly in the Loft Backline Supplied BYO Instruments

10/10/25 Bligh Park Hotel 8pm-11pm Darren Johnstone

11/10/25 Richmond Club 8pm SEED Duo

11/10/25 Richmond Lions Club, Hawkesbury Showground 7:30am-1:30pm Markets, and Local produce

11/10/25 Clarendon Tavern 8:30pm-11:30pm Rogue, Rose, Palooza - Rogue Syndicate - Cyclone Rose - Cover Paloosa

12/10/25 Macquarie Boathouse Restaurant 11:30am-2:30pm The Cracked Cats

12/10/25 The Church Bar 12pm-3:30pm Young & Younger back in Church

12/10/25 The Wilberforce School of Arts 2-5pm Macquarie Towns Music Club 50th Birthday Concert and Cake

14/10/25 Bligh Park Hotel 7:30pm-10:30pm Weekly Jam Night with Rick Kelly in the Loft Backline Supplied BYO Instruments

17/10/25 Bligh Park Hotel 8pm-11pm Benny Black

18/10/25 Bligh Park Hotel 8pm-11pm Jackson Holt

18/10/25 Savour the Flavour Hawkesbury, Richmond Park 4pm-9pm A celebration of the Hawkesbury food, local produce. Live entertainment.

19/10/25 Macquarie Boathouse Restaurant 11:30am-2:30pm Performer To Be Confirmed

19/10/25 Clarendon Tavern 3pm SEED Duo

21/10/25 Bligh Park Hotel 7:30pm-10:30pm Weekly Jam Night with Rick Kelly in the Loft Backline Supplied BYO Instruments

24/10/25 Bligh Park Hotel 8pm-11pm Marty Stewart

25/10/25 Bligh Park Hotel 8pm-11pm Mars

25/10/25 Thrive Festival, McMahons Park Rd, Kurrajong 11am-5pm Matt Charnley Solo, Other live Music and entertainment, stalls

25/10/25 Windsor RSL 8pm Peter Byrne Forever Diamond Neil Diamond Tribute

26/10/25 The Church Bar 12-3pm Shep & Gordo

26/10/25 Bligh Park Hotel 11am-2:30pm Josh K Law

26/10/25 Macquarie Boathouse 11:30am-2:30pm Matt Charnley Solo

27/10/25 Panthers North Richmond 11am Bookings essential The Beachboys Experience

28/10/25 Bligh Park Hotel 7:30pm-10:30pm Weekly Jam Night with Rick Kelly in the Loft Backline Supplied BYO Instruments

31/10/25 Bligh Park Hotel 8pm-11pm Clive Hay

31/10/25 The Gin Joint Enniskillen Orchard Grose Vale 6pm Call Meera 0406 512 162 The Little Shed of Horrors Halloween Special

Why the Hawkesbury Sports Council model could SAVE Australian sport

ACROSS Australia, thousands of local sporting clubs are struggling. Fields are waterlogged, lights are broken, and maintenance requests gather dust on council desks. Parents pay hire fees, but too often that money vanishes into general revenue, competing against roads, libraries and red tape. For many clubs, it feels like sport is always at the back of the queue.

But in the Hawkesbury, a different story has played out for more than three decades. Back in 1993, the local sporting community came together with Hawkesbury City Council to form the Hawkesbury Sports Council, a community-based body that manages the region’s sporting facilities on behalf of Council.

The Sports Council was officially incorporated, and since then it has quietly delivered one of the most successful models of grassroots governance in the country. While other councils wrestle with bureaucracy, the Hawkesbury model has delivered better facilities, stronger participation, and greater community ownership, all without extra cost to ratepayers.

The genius of the Hawkesbury model is simple: decisions are made by the people who use the grounds. Clubs and user groups set priorities based on lived experience they know when drainage is failing, when lights are needed, and where safety upgrades are urgent.

Contrast this with the traditional council-run approach, where decisions are made in distant offices, often shaped by politics rather than sport. In the Hawkesbury, the sporting community doesn’t just get consulted once in a blue moon. They are in the driver’s seat.

Financially, the model makes just as much sense. The Sports Council receives an annual allocation from Hawkesbury City Council of $1.35M and retains all hire fees, reinvesting them directly into maintenance and upgrades of 40 sporting facilities across Hawkesbury.

The Sports Council applies for grants and employs its own contractors, often achieving faster, cheaper, and better results than big-ticket council procurement systems as each of the 53 sporting clubs that are members of the Council undertake their own Club fundraising to support infrastructure needed for them to play.

“Every dollar parents and club’s put in comes back out in the form of better turf, lighting, and amenities. The link between contribution and outcome is

direct, visible, and trusted.” Says President of the Hawkesbury Sports Council David Bertenshaw.

Responsiveness is another key strength. When a field becomes unplayable, or lighting goes down mid-season, the Sports Council can act immediately. There’s no need to navigate weeks of approvals, quotes, and competing budget priorities.

Yet this independence is balanced by strong accountability. Hawkesbury City Council maintains oversight through service agreements and risk management frameworks. Clubs see exactly how their money is spent. The model is independent where it matters, but transparent where it counts.

Why It Matters Nationally

Community sport is not just about games. It is about health, inclusion, resilience, and the social fabric of our towns. When facilities fall into disrepair, participation drops, volunteers burn out, and opportunities for young people vanish.

“The Hawkesbury Sports Council shows there is a better way. By entrusting local sporting communities with responsibility while maintaining accountability through partnerships with local government we can safeguard the future of community sport.” Says David Bertenshaw

“This model has now stood the test of time for more than 30 years. It has delivered efficiency, ownership, and better outcomes. Most importantly, it has kept sport in the hands of the community, where it belongs.” Says Hawkesbury Mayor Cr Les Sheather who is also the Councillor representative on the Sports Council.

“Other councils should not see

the Hawkesbury Sports Council as an anomaly. They should see it as a blueprint. The challenges of maintaining sporting facilities are not unique to the Hawkesbury. But the solution we’ve pioneered here offers a pathway forward.

If we are serious about making sport accessible, affordable, and sustainable, then the Hawkesbury model should be adopted far more widely. It is time to trust communities with the responsibility and the resources to manage the facilities that underpin their sporting life.”

Because at the end of the day, community sport is strongest when the community itself is in charge.

EXPLAINER: A Best-Practice Model for Community Sport

Across Australia, councils grapple with how to maintain sporting facilities that are safe, modern, and affordable. Too often, grounds fall into disrepair or upgrades get delayed because decisions are made far from the grassroots. But in the Hawkesbury, a different model has flourished for more than 30 years one that puts the community in the driver’s seat.

The Hawkesbury Sports Council was formed in 1990 and incorporated in 1992 to manage sporting facilities on behalf of Hawkesbury City Council. Under this unique arrangement, the Council delegates the care, control, and development of its sporting grounds to a community-based body made up of representatives from local sporting clubs.

The result? A delivery model that is more efficient, responsive, and accountable than the traditional “council-run” approach.

Why the Model Works

• Community Ownership: Clubs and user groups set priorities based on lived experience. They know when drainage fails, when lights are needed, and where safety upgrades should go. Decisions reflect real needs, not election cycles.

• Financial Efficiency: The Sports Council retains hire fees, reinvesting them directly into facilities. It applies for grants and employs its own contractors, often achieving better results at lower cost than council bureaucracies.

• Responsiveness: Problems get fixed quickly. When a ground is unplayable or lighting goes out, local managers act immediately no waiting for a drawn-out approvals process.

• Accountability: The Council maintains oversight through service agreements, but transparency is built in. Clubs see where their money goes, and every dollar collected is reinvested into sport.

• Long-Term Planning: Two- and five-year planning cycles keep improvements aligned with community priorities, ensuring steady investment instead of stop-start funding.

The Contrast

In most council areas, hire fees vanish into general revenue, competing against roads, admin costs, and libraries. Sporting clubs wait months for maintenance requests, often with little say in how budgets are spent. Decisions are shaped more by politics than by participation.

By contrast, the Hawkesbury model empowers those closest to the fields to manage them supported, but not smothered, by council oversight.

Community sport is not just about games it’s about health, inclusion, resilience, and the social fabric of our towns. When facilities are poorly maintained, participation drops, clubs fold, and young people lose opportunities.

The Hawkesbury Sports Council shows there’s a better way: a partnership model where local government entrusts communities with real responsibility, while keeping accountability strong.

A Call to Action

If we are serious about growing sport, boosting health, and investing in communities, then the Hawkesbury model should not remain unique it should be the benchmark.

At the end of the day, community sport is strongest when the community itself is in charge.

Congratulations to all our local sporting Champions of 2025! This year’s grand finalists have shown incredible skill, determination, and team spirit, making our community proud. From thrilling victories to unforgettable moments on the field and court, these

athletes have truly earned their place in the spotlight. We celebrate every player, coach, and supporter who contributed to a remarkable season – a testament to hard work, dedication, and the love of the game. Here’s to our Champions of 2025, who inspire us all!

1. HCNA Junior 6 Premiers 2025 Poppets Players: Winter Brown, Harlow Clark Rymer, Tyla-Rose Curtis, Gloria Dakin, Chelsea Fitton, Ariana Kelleher, Summer Newell, Emerson O’Conner, Aria Stewart Coaches; Mary Woodhouse, Rebecca Davies

2. Under 13’s Boys Premiers Pitt Town Football Club

3. Under 13’s Girls Premiers Pitt Town Football Club

4. Under 16 Boys Premiers Pitt Town Football Club

5. HCNA Junior 2 Premiers 2025 Poppets Players: Molly Amson, Phoebe Andrew, Sienna Carter, Ellora Cotter wheeler, Allira Edwards, Jordanne Hall, Destiny Kearney, Eleanor Raunjak, Emily Tomlinso, Dorothy Tourish Coaches; Gemma Deguara, Eliza Gray

6. Richmond Ex-Servicemen’s Soccer Club’s Under 12 Girls DIV 2 Premiers 2025 Undefeated all season, Club Goal Average Award Winners, Club Team Achievement Award Winners Grand Final Score 4 - Nil

7. Over 35 DIV 5 Premiers Pitt Town Football Club

8. HCNA Junior 5 Premiers 2025 Poppets Players: Bobbie Cross, Hallie Green, Eve Harris, Millicent Lane, Mila Marinovic, Ava Mitropoulos, Isabella Thomas, Chelsea Thompson, Sienna Wilpour Coach: Lexie Kelly

9. HCNA B2 Premiers 2025 Poppets Players: Paige Bryan, Eva Cafiero, Gemma Deguara, Georgia Dulimov, Isabel Dulimov, Jessica Gray, Isabelle Kelleher, Phoebe Morris, Ruby Morrison Coach: Simone Morris

10. HCNA Intermediate 3 Premiers 2025 Poppets Deguara Players: Mia Creamer, Hallie Deguara, Tenayah Edwards, Payten Jones, Mila Micallef, Charlotte Morris, Phoebe Morris, Ruby Morrison, Mia Paki, Mikayla Spiteri, Mattilda Te Whiu Coach: Janelle Deguara

11. 2025 Under 14 Division Premiers Hawkesbury Hawks - Rugby League Players: Noah Dixon, Thomas Billington, Jake Humphrey, Dylan Stein, Enoch Tapara, Lucas Stoneman, Jackson Simon, Brock Jackson, Kayleb Smith, Mason Tadrosse, Chayce Dolden, Max Richards, Kaelan Byrne, Charlie Leeson, Guy Grimston, Harrison Moulton, Joshua Kershaw, Not Pictured: Raiden Robinson Coach: Craig Jackson, Manager: Michelle Tapara, Trainers: Natalie Jackson, David Stein, Edward Leeson. Photographer: Charlotte ashleigh

12. HCNA B1 Premiers 2025 Green Hills

13. HCNA Junior 4 Premiers 2025 Colo - Pilgrim

14. HCNA Intermediate 4 Premiers 2025 Colo - Thorpe

15. HCNA Intermediate 2 Premiers 2025 Colo - Hodder

16. HCNA A2 Premiers 2025 Colo - Ryland

17. HCNA A1 Premiers 2025 Colo - Mossfield

18. HCNA Intermediate 1 Premiers 2025 Wildcats

19. HCNA Junior 7’s Premiers 2025 Riverstone

Stalwart Patty Hollis bows out

ON Sunday the 14th of September Windsor’s rugby league community came together to witness the final chapter in the career of one of its most beloved players.

Former Penrith Panthers squad member and Windsor Wolves stalwart, Patty Hollis, laced up his boots for the last time, ending a journey that has been as inspiring as it has been heartfelt.

For Hollis, the highlights of his footballing career stretch back to 2019 and 2020, when he was selected in the Panthers’ top 30 squad.

“That experience, a couple of years in a first-grade system, is something I’ll never ever forget,” he reflected. “I made some really good friends out of it as well.”

But while the Panthers gave him a taste of professional footy, it was the Windsor Wolves that shaped him both as a player and as a person.

“Windsor Wolves is a very family-oriented club… it was the first Division One club I played for, and it gave me the opportunity to be picked for the Panthers junior reps. It’s a pathway, and not everyone gets that chance.”

For Pat, Windsor Wolves has always been more than just a football club. Over the past year, he explained, the sense of community has grown stronger than ever, with a genuine brotherhood forming between players. The 2025 season has seen every Sunday team from the under-17s through to A grade make the grand final, a first in the history of the Penrith District competition.

FPat’s decision to return this year wasn’t just about footy. His older brother, Sam, came out of retirement after seven years, and together they played in honour of Morrie “Moz” Hyde, the much-loved Windsor president who sadly passed away last year. “It was a call out to me and my brother to come back and try and win a comp for Moz. He was the driving factor in my return.”

Now a proud father, Hollis said one of the most special aspects of this season was playing in front of his young son, nieces, and nephews. “Doing it one last time, in front of family that’s what makes it so special.”

As he looks ahead, Hollis admits his body may not allow him to keep playing, but he hopes to remain involved in the game through coaching and supporting his son when his time comes. Above all, he hopes to be remembered “as a player everyone wanted to play with, someone who would always take that tough carry.”

He also paid tribute to Coach Dennis Currie who inspired him along the way, and teammate Eton Lindsay who throughout the season embodied the kind of spirit and reliability that lifted the team and inspired them to play better.

Hollis leaves behind a legacy not just of hard runs and tough tackles, but of loyalty, leadership, and love for his community. His farewell game wasn’t simply the end of a career it was a celebration of everything he has given to the Windsor Wolves, to Penrith, and to the sport he loves.

Windsor Spectacular delivers thrills

ROM the 12th till the 14th of September the Hawkesbury River came alive as it hosted the annual Windsor Spectacular.

The event thrilled crowds, the heart-pounding boat races, drawing locals and visitors from across the country to race at the Windsor boat ramp.

The Spectacular ultimately drew a fantastic turnout, although earlier in the week, doubts loomed over the event’s future, with heavy rain and the release of water from Warragamba Dam leaving the river swollen. Many competitors, including the Taree-based team Lock and Load, had even started heading home, convinced the races wouldn’t go ahead.

The team drove all the way back to Taree but returned to the Hawkesbury as conditions improved, ready to compete.

By late Saturday and early Sunday, the waters had calmed, offering pristine conditions for competitors to push their boats to the limit. Spectators lined the riverbanks, cheering as sleek vessels cut through the water at breathtaking speeds. One attendee said it was “a ripper of a day,” capturing the excitement of the crowd.

Another said: “The sound of the speed boats could be compared to that

of a symphony”.

First-time competitors Craig Bailey Marine with their boat Crazy Duck, Rory, said the experience was unforgettable. “It’s our first Windsor Spectacular, and the boat ran perfectly we had no issues and just enjoyed every minute out there.”

Veteran racer Daryl Quinn, piloting Bad Influence, reflected on his experience: “I’ve been boat racing since 2002 and have raced at various Windsor Spectaculars over the years. It’s always a highlight of the season and a fantastic event to be part of.”

Many families and enthusiasts enjoyed food trucks, vintage boat displays, and lively riverside entertainment.

Visitors travelled from far and wide, many staying over in the Hawkesbury, providing a welcome economic boost for the town.

The event created a vibrant community atmosphere, perfectly blending high-speed racing with family-friendly fun, and was praised for being very well run.

Despite early uncertainty, the Windsor Spectacular once again proved why it’s one of the Hawkesbury’s most anticipated annual events, celebrating community, adrenaline, and the sheer joy of life on the river.

“That screams volumes about what Dean Jones and the recruitment team

have done for the club,” Hollis said proudly.