January Rates 2014

Your community news “After a swim” – Claire Miles

JANUARY 2014

What better way to celebrate Australia Day this year than with your local community in our beautiful shire. There are a range of events for you and your family to enjoy, here’s a taster:

Just walkin’ the dog!

Did you know Hornsby Shire has one of the highest rates of dog ownership in the state? If you are looking for some new places to take your dog, visit our information page on our website hornsby.nsw.gov.au/offleash There is a map with off-leash park locations, facilities and also a section on dog park etiquette.

A social dog is a happy dog and you’ll have an enjoyable outing too.

Visit historic Netherby Homestead and Rural Museums Discover our rich rural history from 10am until 4pm at Fagan Park, Arcadia Road, Galston. Join the Friends of Fagan Park and stroll through historic Netherby Homestead and rural museums. Enjoy working displays, blacksmiths, tea, coffee and cakes and a midday parade through the park of tractors and vehicles. Parking at Fagan Park is $5 per vehicle.

Live entertainment in Hornsby Mall Tuck into Council’s free sausage sizzle at Hornsby Mall, cooked by Hornsby Lions Club from 11am to 3pm. Enjoy face painting, croc encounters, live music, entertainment and free temporary Australia Day tattoos.

Experience the delights of Dangar Island Come and spend the day on beautiful Dangar Island, only 20 minutes drive from Hornsby and a short ferry ride across to the island. There’s plenty on offer to fill your day: lawn bowls at the Bowling Club, a pig on the spit, beautiful parks and beaches to explore, and a range of activities for the kids. The Bowling club opens from 12 noon, pig on a spit from 2pm.

For information about all of Council’s Australia Day activities visit hornsby.nsw.gov.au/australiaday

“Willikins” – Local resident

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my community Happy New Year!

I hope you are having an enjoyable summer. The year ahead will be busy. Certainly one of the highlights will be the completion of the Hornsby Aquatic and Leisure Centre, which is the biggest capital works project this Council has undertaken. Many other important projects will also be delivered throughout the year and I look forward to keeping you updated.

One of the standout achievements from last year was a significant financial result.

For the 2012/13 period Council achieved an operating surplus of $7.8 million compared to the prior year which was a deficit of $348,000. This was made possible through some restructuring and prudent financial decisions. Council and staff are to be congratulated on this fine achievement.

Last November independent auditors PricewaterhouseCoopers gave us a ‘sound and positive’ rating. This means we are in good shape. Our liquidity is well above the industry benchmark and we have low levels of debt. Another important indicator is our infrastructure backlog, which was verified at a minimal $5.24 million and is considered one of the lowest in the state.

I am very pleased with our financial position but I want to assure residents we will not rest on our laurels. We will continue to operate in a financially responsible manner. There are still a lot of challenges ahead with much needed capital works in the pipeline. But it’s great to commence a New Year knowing our future is looking very bright indeed!

Steve Russell Mayor Hornsby Shire Council

Get fit at Galston Eaten too much Christmas pudding and had a few too many wines? Now is the time to burn off that belly and get fit for 2014!

At Galston Aquatic and Leisure Centre we have recently installed some new state of the art gym equipment and with no joining fees, no exit fees, no membership card fee and unlimited use of the gym and pool for $16 a week there’s really no excuse!

To find out more come and see us at the centre or call Andrew Jackson on 9847 6343 or visit the website hornsby.nsw.gov.au Galston Aquatic and Leisure Centre is located at 412 Galston Road, Galston.

my calendar A U S T R A L I A D AY – 2 6 J A N U A R Y Visit historic Netherby Homestead and Rural Museums Stroll through historic Netherby Homestead and imagine life as it was early last century.

See working displays of vehicles and machinery, blacksmiths, hot air engine and don’t miss the midday parade of tractors and vehicles through the park.

Calling all knitters!

Be a part of friendly informal knitting groups and support “Wrap with Love”. No need to be an expert!

Help out by knitting, crocheting or sewing wraps in our lively groups. BYO 4mm needles and 8 ply yarn. Free.

Thursday mornings starting 6 February, 10am-12pm.

Epping Library.

Thursday mornings starting 6 February, 10am-12pm, Pennant Hills Library.

10am-5pm, Fagan Park, Arcadia Road, Galston. Parking at Fagan Park is $5 per vehicle.

Celebrations in Hornsby Mall Tuck into Council’s free sausage sizzle at Hornsby Mall cooked by Hornsby Lions Club. Enjoy face painting, croc encounters, live music, entertainment and free temporary Australia Day tattoos.

11am-3pm, Hornsby Mall, Free.

Dangar Island Come and spend the day on the beautiful Dangar Island.

There’s plenty on offer with lawn bowls at the Bowling Club, a Pig on the Spit, beautiful parks and beaches to explore, and a range of activities for the kids.

Activities run all day. Dangar Island Ferry timetable: dangarislandleague.net/FerryTimetable

Friday mornings starting 7 February, 10am-12pm.

Hornsby Library.

Monday afternoons starting 7 April, 2pm-4pm.

Berowra Library.

Friday Features: Author Margaret Rose Stringer ‘And Then Like My Dreams – a memoir.’ This is the story of Charles ‘Chic’ Stringer, written by his widow Margaret Rose. It is a celebration of the career of one of the most respected stillsmen of the Australian film industry.

Friday 7 February, 10.30am. Hornsby Library. Free.

Call 9847 6614 or email library@hornsby.nsw.gov.au* Weiqi workshop (in mandarin) Opportunities to learn how to play Weiqi, learn a new skill and have a fun.

Wednesday fortnightly from 12 February, 9.30am-12pm, Wallarobba Arts and Cultural Centre, 25 Edgeworth David Avenue, Hornsby. Free. Call Jian Zhao on 9847 6994.*

FEBRUARY Chinese calligraphy workshop (in mandarin) A great opportunity to learn Chinese calligraphy and culture. Hands-on workshops to learn new skills and enjoy ancient arts.

Library Lovers Day Join us for Morning tea and celebrate Library Lovers Day. Friday 14 February, 10am. Hornsby Library. Free.

Wednesday fortnightly from 5 February to 30 June, 9.30am-11am. Wallarobba Arts and Cultural centre, 25 Edgeworth David Avenue, Hornsby. $5. Call Jian Zhao on 9847 6994.* Live in the Mall – every month!

Showcasing various local groups or individuals performing music, dance, acting, magic and more. This month come along to hear the sweet sounds of “Just Between Us”, a young contemporary vocal duo accompanied by semi acoustic guitar and ukulele.

Thursday 6 February, 5pm-6.30pm. Hornsby Mall. Free.

Further information call Holly on 9847 6889 or email hfaulkner@hornsby.nsw.gov.au

Making waste to art work Come and be inspired to think creatively about reusing and recycling pre-loved items salvaged from landfill.

Participants will leave with a number of ideas that can be further developed into an art work for the Returned To Glory Competition and Exhibition.

Saturday 15 February, 9.30am-4pm, Kimbriki Waste and Recycling Depot. Free. Spaces limited, call 9847 4856.* Chipping for mulch days Bring along your green waste for chipping and take home free mulch. For information about what is accepted and not see Councils website for full details.

Sunday 16 February, 8am-2.45pm. The Old Dog Pound, Warrigal Drive, Westleigh. Free.

* Bookings essential

Parents / carers of learner drivers workshop This workshop is for parents/carers of Learner drivers who are completing the Graduated Licensing Scheme.

Topics covered are new license conditions and laws, Learner Driver Log book, Benefits of supervised driving experience, young driver issues and the Safer Drivers Course.

Tuesday 18 February, 6.30pm-8.30pm. Hornsby Shire Council Chambers Building. Free. Bookings 9847 6856 or email: ltipping@hornsby.nsw.gov.au* Meet the Author: Caroline Overington ‘No Place Like Home’ is a story of five hostages. One Bomb. But this is no ordinary siege. Come and meet Caroline Overington, Associate Editor of The Australian Women’s Weekly and recipient of the Walkley Award for Excellence in Journalism twice, the Sir Keith Murdoch prize for journalism and the Blake Dawson prize.

Thursday 20 February, 6.30pm. Hornsby Library. $5 includes refreshments. Call on 9847 6614 or email: library@hornsby.nsw.gov.au*

Tuesday 11 March, 10.15am-1.15pm. Hornsby Library. $10. Call 9847 6614 or email library@hornsby.nsw.gov.au* Safer senior drivers presentation A presentation that provides the up to date information on road rules, and driver awareness education for older drivers.

Tuesday 11 March, 10am-12pm. Council Chambers. Free.

Bookings 9847 6856 or email ltipping@hornsby.nsw.gov.au* Chipping for mulch days Bring along your green waste for chipping and take home free mulch. For information about what is accepted and not see Councils website for full details.

Sunday 16 March, 8am-2.45pm. Hornsby Council Depot, Johnson Road, Galston. Free.

Get the dirt on composting and worm farming Composting is a fun and easy way to recycle your garden and kitchen waste. Compost improves your garden soil, saves space in your red or green bin and saves you money.

Healthy Living Festival 2014 The Healthy Living Festival aims to promote health and wellbeing and showcase the Shire’s diverse community groups. There is something for everyone with over 150 activities so come and join in on the fun!

Sunday 23 February, 10am-12.30pm. Fagan Park Eco Garden, Arcadia Road, Galston. Free.

Spaces are limited, book online: hornsby.nsw.gov.au/ whatson or call 9847 4856.* Kimbriki tour and eco garden talk On the tour of the Kimbriki site you will see how your green waste is transformed into a usable garden product. We will then stop at the Eco Garden and hear a short talk on eco gardening.

Thursday 27 February, 9am-2.45pm. Bus leaves Hornsby Park bus stop, Hornsby. Free. Spaces are limited, book online: hornsby.nsw.gov.au/whatson or call 9847 4856.*

Sunday 16 March to Sunday 13 April. Call Kim on 9847 6531 or email kharris@hornsby.nsw.gov.au.

Visit hornsby.nsw.gov.au/hlf for all the details.

Yes you can – print making workshop Create art works without tears or ink using this simple embossing technique and using a press. With local artists Ina Burt and Barbara O’Ryan.

Sunday 16 March 2014, 10am-1pm. Wallarobba Arts and Cultural Centre, 25 Edgeworth David Avenue, Hornsby.

Free. Further information call Linda on 9847 6855 or email lbaranov@hornsby.nsw.gov.au*

MARCH Eco gardening basics Are you interested in making your garden more environmentally friendly and productive. Topics covered include no-dig gardening, companion planting, crop rotation and lots more.

Saturday 1 March, 10am-12.30pm, Fagan Park Eco Garden, Arcadia Road, Galston. Free. Spaces are limited, book online: hornsby.nsw.gov.au/whatson or call 9847 4856.*

Native Bees Workshop Megan Halcroft of Bees Business will be presenting an information session on Australian native bees. Their importance and benefits in our ecosystem and how to identify and attract them to your backyard.

Over 55’s bush tucker master cooking class Senior’s Week participants will get to enjoy a free bush tucker cooking and tasting class, including Aboriginal food by a local expert. There will also be an informal presentation, Love Food Hate Waste raising awareness on the food we waste and the impact on the environment.

Tuesday 18 March, 11am-2pm. Berowra Community Centre. Free. Further information call Dennis on 9847 6547 or email dmageropoulos@hornsby.nsw.gov.au*

* Bookings essential

Stroke safe seminar Informative seminar presented by the National Stroke Foundation covers topics such as how to prevent a stroke, what is a stroke and the importance of early detection.

Live in the Mall – every month!

Zumba with Les! Come along to Hornsby Mall and join a free Zumba class with expert instructor. Bring a water bottle.

Tuesday 18 March, 7pm-7.30pm. Hornsby Library. Free.

Further information call Holly on 9847 6889 or email hfaulkner@hornsby.nsw.gov.au*

Thursday 20 March, 5pm-6.30pm (Zumba sarts at 5.45pm). Hornsby Mall. Free. Further information call Holly on 9847 6889 or email hfaulkner@hornsby.nsw.gov.au

Cooking class for seniors and carers A fun, hands-on cooking class for seniors and those who are caring for a family member. Learn how to make healthy and quick meals for your family.

Meet the Author: John Martyn Understanding the weather: a guide for outdoor enthusiasts in south-eastern Australia. John takes us on a journey through his visual guide of weather patterns.

Wednesday 19 March, 10.30am-1.30pm.

Hornsby Leisure and Learning Centre, 25 Edgeworth David Avenue, Hornsby. Free. Call 9847 6994 to book.*

Wednesday 20 March, 6.30pm. Hornsby Library. $5 includes refreshments. Call on 9847 6614 or email library@hornsby.nsw.gov.au*

Writing your family histories – Carol Baxter Carol will guide you on turning dusty piles of notes and photos into riveting family histories in this two hour workshop based on her acclaimed book.

Cryptic crossword workshop Daunted by cryptic crosswords? Join Ralph Penglis for two workshops to learn the basic rules and tricks.

Wednesday 19 March, 6.30pm. Hornsby Library. $7.

Call 9847 6614 or email library@hornsby.nsw.gov.au* Volunteer information session Volunteering is a wonderful way to help other people and be involved in the community. Come and find out how to become a volunteer.

Thursdays 20, 27 March and 3 April, 1pm-2pm.

Hornsby Library. Free. Further information call Kim on 9847 6531 or email kharris@hornsby.nsw.gov.au Managing diabetes, pre-diabetes, and healthy eating# What is diabetes? Am I at risk? How can I manage my diabetes better? Plus healthy eating tips for people with diabetes. Hornsby Ku-ring-gai Health Service, Diabetes Education and Nutrition and Dietetics Dept, in partnership with Hornsby Shire Council.

Thursday 20 March, 11am-1.30pm. Pennant Hills Community Centre, Yarrara Road, Pennant Hills. Free.

Wednesday 2 April. 11am-1.30pm. Beatrice Taylor Hall, behind Wallarobba Arts and Cultural Centre, 25 Edgeworth David Avenue, Hornsby. Free.

Friday 21 and Friday 28 March, 10.30am-1.30pm.

Hornsby Library. Free. Call on 9847 6614 or email library@hornsby.nsw.gov.au* Propagation workshop Want to save money by growing your own vegetable seedlings? Come and learn the easy skills of propagation. Basic skills on how to grow from cuttings will also be covered.

Sunday 22 March, 10am-12.30pm, Fagan Park Eco Garden, Arcadia Road, Galston. Free. Spaces are limited, book online: hornsby.nsw.gov.au/whatson or call 9847 4856* Berowra community day – meet your neighbours and local services Join us for a free BBQ and meet other people in your neighbourhood, learn more about the wonderful local services in Berowra and enjoy games and face painting for the kids.

Saturday 22 March, 10am-2pm. The car park of IGA Supermarket, 19 Turner Road, Berowra Heights.

Free. No booking required. Further information call 9847 6994.

Further information call Sophie on 9847 6741 or email sdavis@hornsby.nsw.gov.au All information contained in the events calendar is correct at time of printing.

For up to the minute event information, visit hornsby.nsw.gov.au/whatson

# These two sessions are for members of the Chinese community, and a Cantonese speaking interpreter will be present to assist.

* Bookings essential

my calendar Free native plant giveaway Ratepayers from Beecroft, Carlingford, Castle Hill, Cheltenham, Epping, Eastwood, Glenhaven, Pennant Hills, West Pennant Hills and North Epping are invited to receive four free native plants.

Non toxic cleaning workshop Using less chemicals around your home is better for your health and for the environment. Get easy and inexpensive tips on how to use non toxic alternatives in your home.

Saturday 22 March, 1pm-3pm. Council’s Community Nursery, 28 Britannia Street, Pennant Hills. Bring along your current rates notice. See hornsby.nsw.gov.au/ nursery for conditions.

Saturday 29 March, 10am-1pm, Pennant Hills Nursery, 28 Britannia Street, Pennant Hills. Free. Spaces are limited, book online at hornsby.nsw.gov.au/whatson or call 9847 4856.*

Streetwise learn to skate clinic This practical session led by accredited coaches from Skateboarding Australia teaches beginners how to skate and develops the skills of those who already skate.

Going solar and saving $$$ Thinking of getting solar panels? Sick of paying high electricity bills? Take control of your energy use.

Sunday 23 March, 10am-12pm. Galston Skate Park, Galston Road, adjacent to Galston Aquatic Centre.

Saturday 29 March, 10am-12pm, Council Chambers.

Free. Spaces are limited. Book online: hornsby.nsw.gov.au/whatson or call 9847 6613.*

Sunday 30 March, 10am-12pm. Thornleigh Skate Park, Brickpit Park, Dartford Road, Thornleigh.

Bring your skate board and helmet. Helmets are compulsory. Under 18’s need parents or guardian to give permission and sign waiver. Free. If wet weather, event will be cancelled. Further information call Kim on 9847 6531 or email kharris@hornsby.nsw.gov.au Recycling tour Ever wondered what happens to the mix of materials in your yellow bin? Come on a tour of the Materials Recycling Facility and find out how your paper is recycled from your plastic containers.

Monday 24 March, 9am-1pm. Bus leaves Hornsby Park bus stop, Hornsby. Free. Spaces are limited, book online: hornsby.nsw.gov.au/whatson or call 9847 4856.* Get the dirt on composting and worm farming Composting is a fun and easy way to recycle your garden and kitchen waste. Compost improves your garden soil, saves space in your bin and saves you money.

Wednesday 26 March, 9.30am-12.30pm. Wallarobba Garden, 25 Edgeworth David Ave, Hornsby. Free.

Spaces are limited, book online: hornsby.nsw.gov.au/ whatson or call 9847 4856.* Managing diabetes, pre-diabetes, and healthy eating What is diabetes? Am I at risk? How can I manage my diabetes better? Plus healthy eating tips for people with diabetes. Hornsby Ku-ring-gai Health Service, Diabetes Education and Nutrition and Dietetics Dept, in partnership with Hornsby Shire Council.

APRIL Biodiversity in your backyard Make your garden more wildlife friendly. This introductory information session shows you simple ways to further protect our native animals, starting in your own backyard.

Wednesday 2 April, 6.30pm. Hornsby Library. Free.

Spaces are limited, call 9847 6614 or email library@hornsby.nsw.gov.au* Youth zone Kicking off Youth Week 2014 with music, dance, street performers and art in Hornsby Mall. Free sausage sizzle and other giveaways. Information stalls covering youth health and wellbeing, youth services, drug and alcohol information.

Thursday 3 April, 3pm-5pm, Hornsby Mall. Free.

Further information call Dennis on 9847 6547 or email dmageropoulos@hornsby.nsw.gov.au It’s in the bag Making bags with style from recycled event banners, with tutors Val James and Helen MacRitchie from Australian Textile Arts and Surface Design Association Inc. Basic sewing skills necessary.

Saturday 5 April, 9am-4pm. Pennant Hills Learning and Leisure Centre, 8 Warne Street, Pennant Hills. Free.

Spaces are limited, book online at hornsby.nsw.gov.au/ whatson or call 9847 4856.*

Wednesday 26 March, 1.30pm-4pm. Hornsby Library.

Free. Call Sophie on 9847 6741 or email sdavis@hornsby.nsw.gov.au*

* Bookings essential

Shorefest 2014 All age’s drug and alcohol free music event held annually by local Councils across the North Shore.

This event has been hugely popular and 2014 is shaping up to be the must attend Youth Week event in Northern Sydney.

Saturday 5 April, 10am-5pm. St Leonards Park, corner of Miller and Falcon Streets, North Sydney. Free.

Further information call Dennis at 9847 6547 or email dmageropoulos@hornsby.nsw.gov.au Skateboarding workshop – Youth Week Event Skateboarding Australia and Hornsby Shire Council are hosting a Best Trick Competition and Demo.

Sunday 6 April, 12.30pm-3pm. Berowra Skate Park, Berowra Oval, Berowra Waters Road, Berowra.

Bring your skate board and helmet. Helmets are compulsory. Under 18’s need parents or guardian to give permission and sign waiver. Free. If wet weather, event will be cancelled. Further information call Kim on 9847 6531 or email kharris@hornsby.nsw.gov.au Wills, powers of attorney and guardianship An informative session that will assist you with life’s difficult questions: Who will speak for you if you can’t speak for yourself? Who will take care of your kids if something happened to you? Who will take care of your finances and who will inherit your property?

Presented by Hornsby solicitor, David Thompson.

Go4fun family fun day Come and join the Go4Fun program by trying a range of sports and fun activities for kids. Meet other families and have an exciting and enjoyable family fun day!

Sunday 13 April, 1.30pm-4pm. Ruddock Park, Coral Heath Avenue, Westleigh. Free. Call 9847 6611 for more information.* Eco Garden kids activities Join us in the Eco Garden for an hour of outdoor activities that include a story, a garden themed treasure hunt as well as some do it yourself fun!

Each hour has a theme and is aimed at primary school aged children.

Wednesday 16 April, 11am and 1pm, and Wednesday 23 April, 1pm and 2pm. Eco Garden Gazebo, Fagan Park, Arcadia Road, Galston. Free. Spaces are limited, book online: hornsby.nsw.gov.au/whatson or call 9847 4856.* Live in the Mall – every month!

Once a month Hornsby Shire presents Live in the Mall which will showcase various local groups or individuals performing music, dance, acting, magic or any other form of entertainment. Check website for details.

Thursday 17 April, 5pm-6.30pm. Hornsby Mall. Free.

Further information call Holly on 9847 6889 or email hfaulkner@hornsby.nsw.gov.au

Sunday 6 April, 2pm-3.30pm. The Hornsby Learning and Leisure Centre, behind Wallarobba Arts and Cultural Centre, 25 Edgeworth David Avenue, Hornsby.

Free. Further information call Linda on 9847 6855 or email lbaranov@hornsby.nsw.gov.au* Chipping for mulch days Bring along your green waste for chipping and take home free mulch. For information about what is accepted and not see Councils website for full details.

Guided Bushwalks Enjoy Hornsby Shire’s unique bushland as your experienced guide takes you through some amazing scenery. There are walks to suit everyone from our Echidna Kids bushwalks for pre-schoolers, beginners using well marked tracks through to harder graded walks on steeper, rougher terrain.

Sunday 13 April, 8am-2.45pm. Council Depot, Beaumont Road, Mt Kuring-gai. Free.

For details of each walk visit: hornsby.nsw.gov.au/bushwalks or call 9847 6832.*

SUNDAY 16 MARCH 10AM-4PM ROSELEA HALL AND OVALS PENNANT HILLS ROAD, BEECROFT For more information visit

HORNSBY.NSW.GOV.AU/HLFLAUNCH * Bookings essential

my lifestyle Need to dispose of an old TV or computer?

Electronic waste is a growing problem in Australia that can be solved by recycling televisions and computers. Recycling these items recovers valuable metals, plastics and glass, preventing dangerous materials from entering the environment.

Council is running a free trial e-waste drop off service until 30 June 2014. E-waste items can be dropped off at Council’s Waste Depot at 4 Chilvers Road, Thornleigh (entry off Sefton Road, first driveway after the intersection).

Items can be dropped off on weekdays from 9am to 4pm and late night Tuesday until 7.30pm.

Batteries, light globes, ink and toner cartridges and mobile phones can also be dropped off at this location.

Items that will be accepted: televisions PCs including laptops, desktops,

notebooks etc.

printers including multi function devices

(eg. copy, print, scan) joystick and gamepads

monitors

web cameras

scanners

DVD and VCR Players

keyboards and mouse

set top boxes

hard drives/compact disk drives

DVDs and compact discs

Items that will not be accepted: microwave ovens and other white goods smoke detectors, x-ray machines

or video tapes

broken glass CRT television or monitors

– loose picture tubes stereo equipment

In addition to Chilvers Road, e-waste can also be dropped off at the following locations: Kimbriki Resource Recovery Centre, Ingleside (kimbriki.com.au) Ryde Resource Recovery Facility, Ryde (dropzone.org.au) Seven Hills Resource Recovery Facility, Seven Hills (dropzone.org.au)

For more information about what can be dropped off, check our A-Z Waste and Recycling Guide on our website or call the Waste Hotline on 9847 4856.

Download our app today For quick access to helpful information download our free app from Google Play or App Store.

Check sportsground closures.

Use the built-in maps to find playgrounds, tennis courts, community centres.

Check water quality levels at popular swimming spots on the Hawkesbury River.

Find out if the Hornsby Mountain Bike Trail is open or closed.

And don’t forget to like us on facebook for daily updates and sign up to our monthly enewsletter for information about events and activities in your area.