The Hills Shire’s signature festival is back throughout September with the return of the OBF Night Markets, the OBF Parade as well as a new food and wine event at Wisemans Ferry – plus stacks of community-run events.
OBF NIGHT MARKETS
Saturday 7 September 3pm – 9pm Castle Hill Showground
Bring the whole family to the OBF Night Markets for a tantalising line up of food trucks, market stalls and entertainment.
OBF TASTE OF WISEMANS
Sunday 29 September 10am – 3pm
Wisemans Ferry Park
Explore Wisemans Ferry and support local producers and businesses including wineries, distilleries, seafood merchants and more at this foodie event. There will also be family-friendly entertainment, performances, free activities, and much more.
The Wisemans Ferry community has been hit hard in recent years with flooding, which has impacted people’s homes and livelihoods. A Taste of Wisemans is an opportunity for the whole Hills Shire community to support Wisemans Ferry businesses and explore the stunning natural scenery and local charm the region has to offer.
This year’s OBF Night Markets will include a special treat – award-winning musical children’s performer Emma Memma will entertain live on stage!
We’re happy to welcome Emma back to Orange Blossom Festival. Emma last appeared as part of the Pippa Show in 2005 before she became Emma Memma. Emma Memma will share her love of dance, sign language and music, bringing a fabulously fun show for young children and their families.
The night will close with a spectacular fireworks display.
OBF PARADE
Saturday 21 September 11am – 4pm Rouse Hill Town Centre
Enjoy the best of The Hills community at the OBF Parade with exciting new acts including the Bluey Show. Soak up the carnival atmosphere with roving performers, beautiful floats and some of our fantastic community groups marching alongside them.
Free face painting and a potting workshop for green thumbs will also return. This year, a sensory space will be available for neurodivergent attendees who need a quiet place to retreat to during the event.
The Hills Shire Council is proud to support community-run events in association with Orange Blossom Festival:
Friends of Bella Vista Farm Open Day, Bella Vista Farm | Sunday 1 September 9am – 2pm
Orange Blossom Festival Annual Art Awards, Castle Glen Community Centre
Open to the public from Sunday 1 September 9am – 3pm
Orange Blossom Bonsai Show, Harvey Lowe Pavilion
Friday 6 & Saturday 7 September 10am – 5pm & Sunday 8 September 10am – 4pm
Friends of The Hills Library Pop-Up Book Sale, Castle Hill Library
Saturday 7 September & Saturday 14 September 9:30am – 3pm
Come & Try BMX, Fred Caterson Reserve | Saturday 7 September 1pm – 3pm
Run for the Hills, Bella Vista Farm and Oval | Sunday 8 September from 8am
Kenthurst Fair, John Benyon Rotary Park | Sunday 8 September 10am – 3pm
Jazz at the Pines, Roughley House | Sunday 15 September 12:30pm – 4pm
Sydney Hills Garden Competition
Entries close Friday 13 September | The Awards Night will be on Friday 27 September
Soroptimist International of The Hills Public Speaking Competition, Glenhaven Community Centre
Saturday 21 September
The Hills Young Musicians Contest, Baulkham Hills High School | Saturday 28 September 7pm – 9pm
Great Concerts of Great Classical Symphonies, Pioneer Theatre | Sunday 29 September 7:30pm
Disclaimer: Event details are subject to change.
Emma Memma at the 2005 Orange Blossom Festival
BARBARA AND MARILYN
WE ARE VERY LUCKY TO HAVE A LARGE AND DEDICATED GROUP OF VOLUNTEERS IN THE HILLS SHIRE WHO ARE COMMITTED TO MAKING OUR COMMUNITY A BETTER PLACE.
Barbara Stewart and Marilyn Stoneham celebrated major volunteering milestones this year. Barbara has been a Meals on Wheels volunteer since 1974, providing meals and companionship to countless of Meals on Wheels clients over the years.
When reflecting on the past five decades, Barbara said her goal has always been to volunteer for as long as possible.
“My husband said that he would help me, and I thought, well, maybe I can make it to 50 years or something close to it,” Barbara said.
“I was determined to get to a certain number before I ran out of steam. I don’t think I’ll last another 50 years, but I would like to keep going as long as possible. That’s of course, if they still let me!”
Marilyn has proudly served the community for 45 years. As a Council volunteer, Marilyn has volunteered for Meals on Wheels, Justice of the Peace, Neighbourhood Watch, The Hills Shire Library Service, as well as the Castle Hill Heritage Park and Castle Hill Showground 355 Committees to name a few.
When reflecting on her time volunteering, Marilyn said she didn’t think of it as anything special.
“You know, it’s just something I did. It was just me. I just needed to be involved and got involved in one thing and then another thing. I love being involved,” Marilyn said.
“What you get out of it, it’s much more than what you put into it, for sure. Definitely. The friendship, the camaraderie, the feeling of being needed is pretty important. We all need to feel that we’re wanted and doing something that helps people.”
Barbara and Marilyn’s tremendous service to the community was acknowledged during Council’s Thank You Night in May.
To read more about Barbara and Marilyn’s stories, visit the Hills Shire News webpage on Council’s website.
REFERENCE GROUP TO MAKE THE HILLS MORE INCLUSIVE
A passionate group of Hills Shire residents with professional or lived experience of disability have been chosen to form Council’s first-ever external Disability Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP) Reference Group.
Council adopted the Disability Inclusion Action Plan in 2022 which included an action to form a reference group to support the implementation of the plan.
The DIAP Reference Group will provide recommendations to ensure Council’s services, infrastructure and community
facilities are accessible to people with disability.
The seven members of the Disability Inclusion Action Plan Reference Group include Belinda Colombrita, Ellen Witzlsperger (Chair), Sarika Shasidharan, Julie Charlton, Laura Mallison, Eve Foxman (Secretary) and Peta Kennedy. Members applied to be part of the group through an Expression of Interest process. For more information, visit Council’s website and search for ‘Disability’. www.thehills.nsw.gov.au
Pictured: Mayor Dr Peter Gangemi, Belinda Colombrita, Peta Kennedy, Julie Charlton, Eve Foxman (Secretary) and Ellen Witzlsperger (Chair). Not pictured: Sarika Shasdharan and Laura Mallison
MEET THE HILLS SHIRE
YOUTH AMBASSADORS
COUNCIL’S BUDGET FOR THE 2024/25 FINANCIAL YEAR
The Hills Shire Plan outlines the projects and services to be delivered across The Hills Shire in 2024-25. The 2024-25 Hills Shire Plan is one of the biggest budgets in The Hills Shire’s history, featuring a $162.8 million infrastructure spend. Highlights include:
SHIVANI SUNDARANATHAN AND KRISH NAIR HAVE BEEN APPOINTED AS THE 2024-25 HILLS SHIRE YOUTH AMBASSADORS.
Their role includes promoting youth initiatives, advocating for events, attending Council functions and offering insights on committees. They will also guide Council’s volunteer youth group, The Hills Youth Army.
Read about the new 2024-25 Hills Shire Youth Ambassadors below.
TELL US ABOUT YOURSELF, YOUR HOBBIES AND INTERESTS?
Shivani: I’m a Year 11 student at Crestwood High School. I have a passion for netball and have had the privilege of playing at the representative level. Since last year, I’ve also been coaching netball, which has been a rewarding experience. Besides netball, I enjoy athletics, Oztag, and touch football. These sports keep me active and allow me to challenge myself continually. Additionally, I love playing the piano, which is a wonderful way to relax and express myself creatively.
Krish: I am a first-year student at Macquarie University, doing my double degree in Bachelor of Law and Bachelor of Cognitive Brain Science. I am also a former Youth Parliament member (2022 & 2023) and elected Youth Minister for Business and Employment in 2022. I have authored four books on coding and self-published them at the age of 14, which are available on Amazon.
My hobbies are travelling, playing badminton, and, in contrast to dancing on the badminton courts at times, sitting for hours in a chair and playing chess with friends and family.
I am passionate about community welfare, greater youth engagement, fostering quality education, and advocating for mental health.
WHAT WOULD YOU LIKE TO FOCUS ON DURING YOUR TIME AS A YOUTH AMBASSADOR?
Shivani: I would like to focus on promoting healthy living and lifestyle. I believe in the importance of physical activity for overall wellbeing and want to encourage others to lead active lives. Through various initiatives and programs, I hope to inspire more young people to participate in sports and other physical activities, fostering a healthier and more engaged community.
Krish: As the Youth Ambassador for 2024 – 2025, I am committed to the ‘SHIRE’, supporting and promoting:
1. School Engagement
2. Harmony and our multiculturalism
3. Inclusivity
4. Retailers and small businesses
5. Environment
To read more about the 2024 – 2025 Youth Ambassador’s visit Council’s website and search for ‘Youth Ambassadors.’
2024 NSW LOCAL GOVERNMENT ELECTION
Council elections will take place on Saturday 14 September 2024.
Local government elections involve:
• Electing the councillors in your ward and
• electing the Mayor to serve for the full four-year term.
The Hills Shire Council Local Government Area (LGA) is divided into four wards. An equal number of councillors (3) are elected for each ward, in addition to the Mayor. Councillors and the Mayor are elected for a four-year term.
Voting is compulsory at all NSW local government elections.
Polling booth locations will be listed on the NSW Electoral Commission’s website: elections.nsw.gov.au
WHAT WARD AM I IN?
The ward map shows the ward boundary information. You can also check which ward you’re in by searching for your home address on the interactive map on Council’s website.
To view the interactive map, visit www.thehills.nsw.gov.au and search for ‘Ward & Boundary Map.’
HOW DO I REGISTER TO VOTE OR UPDATE MY ENROLMENT DETAILS?
Council elections are held by the NSW Electoral Commission.
To register to vote, check or update your enrolment details or to receive a reminder to vote, visit the NSW Electoral Commission’s website: elections.nsw.gov.au.
FERRY UPDATE LOWER PORTLAND
In April this year, the NSW Government announced it would assume management of the Lower Portland Ferry. The ferry has historically been jointly funded by The Hills Shire Council and Hawkesbury City Council and managed by the latter.
The announcement comes after years of advocacy from both Councils and local residents requesting that the ferry be managed by the NSW Government like other ferries on the Hawkesbury River.
This announcement heralds a new era of travel convenience.
RECYCLE YOUR E-WASTE, PLASTICS, POLYSTYRENE AND TEXTILES FOR FREE
We’re holding another E-Waste Plus event on Saturday 21 September from 9am - 3:30pm at Castle Hill Showground.
Last time we trialled textiles, polystyrene, and plastics recycling, it was a huge hit. Over 1500 cars came to Castle Hill Showground, and we unloaded an estimated 45 tonnes of e-waste and hard plastic, 4 tonnes of textiles, 100 cubic metres of polystyrene, and 75 cubic metres of soft plastics.
For a full list of acceptable items and how to prepare them, visit Council’s website and search for ‘E-Waste Plus Event.’
ADOPT A FURRY FRIEND!
If you’re looking for a new furry friend, then why shop when you can adopt for as little as $99.
This also frees up funding for both councils to focus towards local infrastructure.
The NSW Government’s decision paves the way for greater collective local and state government investment in rural areas across The Hills Shire and the Hawkesbury.
Transport for NSW will start managing the ferry from 1 October 2024.
With all ferry services in The Hills and the Hawkesbury soon to be under one authority, motorists can look forward to more seamless and predictable journeys, enhancing their travel experience.
There are a variety of dogs and cats of different breeds looking for their forever home at the Hawkesbury Companion Animal Shelter in Mulgrave.
Each animal’s adoption cost covers their first vaccination, desexing, microchipping, and lifetime registration. For more information visit The Hawkesbury Companion Animal Shelter website, hawkesburycas. com.au or call 02 4560 4644.
BUILDING A NEW COMMUNITY
and traffic signals, along with the cost of acquiring land to facilitate them, are included within the applicable contributions plan. For traffic signals, Council requires approval from the NSW Government before commencing any works.
To complete a road upgrade, Council needs to collect the necessary funds from developers, acquire the required land, undertake detailed survey and design and obtain the necessary approvals from NSW Government agencies. This can take some time to complete. For busier roads the process can take even longer because more approvals are required from state agencies, existing services may need to be relocated (which adds considerable time and cost), and collaboration with adjoining councils may also be required.
SPORTSGROUNDS, PARKS AND RESERVES
Our Recreation Strategy informs Council’s planning for open spaces, such as sportsgrounds, reserves and parks in The Hills Shire.
The Recreation Strategy aims for:
• Most households to be able to walk to a local park within 400 metres of their home.
• one playing field per 2,000 people in low-density areas and.
TWE EXPLAIN THE CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES THAT COME WITH BUILDING NEW COMMUNITIES LIKE BOX HILL.
he NSW Government recently set The Hills Shire a new housing target of 23,300 additional dwelling completions over the next five years. This is more than double Council’s previous five-yearly dwelling target.
With the increase in population comes the need for new or expanded residential areas, like the new release areas in Box Hill and North Kellyville.
Building a new residential area occurs in several stages and involves approval and funding processes with various stakeholders such as the NSW Government, Transport for NSW and developers.
PREPARING A CONTRIBUTIONS PLAN AND COLLECTING FUNDS
A Contributions Plan is a document that Council uses to outline the essential infrastructure needed for a new community, including parks, sportsgrounds, drainage, and roads. Under these plans, developers are required to contribute funding towards this infrastructure.
It would be ideal for Council to have
access to all necessary funds to complete all necessary infrastructure upfront and before development occurs within an area. However, the reality of the infrastructure funding system in NSW is that councils are only able to collect these funds in small amounts over time, as each individual development occurs. As a result, this often creates a lag between the development occurring and the associated infrastructure, such a building parks and upgrading roads.
REGIONAL INFRASTRUCTURE
SUCH AS MAJOR
ROADS,
SCHOOLS, HOSPITALS, METROS AND MOTORWAYS ARE MANAGED, FUNDED AND DELIVERED BY THE NSW GOVERNMENT.
LAND ACQUISITION
Once sufficient funds have been collected; to build any new infrastructure such as a sportsground or to upgrade a road, Council first needs to own the land.
Acquiring the land needed for infrastructure within a new release area can be challenging, particularly when it involves many individual landowners who might not be ready to sell. Once the necessary land has been acquired by Council, new facilities can then only be built once the necessary developer contributions have been received and approvals from respective NSW Government agencies have been received.
ROADS
In any new community, it is the responsibility of the NSW Government to manage the rollout of utility services such as water, sewerage and electricity. The NSW Government is also responsible for funding and delivering major road upgrades to the regional road network. The rollout of smaller local roads is typically the responsibility of developers to deliver as development occurs. Council is responsible for delivering upgrades to major local roads when it’s not possible for an individual developer to complete the works, as well as key intersection improvements on the local road network such as roundabouts and traffic signals. The cost of roundabouts
• one playing field per 4,000 people in high-density areas. The location of a sportsground, reserve, or park is determined by many factors, including the nature and scale of development, the likely number of people that will use it, and pre-existing facilities within the surrounding areas.
Open spaces are classified into four categories:
Ancillary
Open spaces consisting of a single playing field that are sometimes smaller than a fullsized playing field, such as Ellerman Park, Dural.
Local
District
Open spaces that usually include two full-sized playing fields (occasionally they include three or four playing fields) and infrastructure such as toilets, floodlights, and a car park. An example of a local facility is George Thornton Reserve, West Pennant Hills.
Open spaces that cater for a minimum of four full-sized playing fields. They include more infrastructure, such as larger amenities and multi-purpose courts that can be used for tennis, netball, or basketball. District facilities are generally suitable for grassroots local and representative sport and passive recreation. An example of a district facility is Bernie Mullane Sports Complex, Kellyville.
Council identifies a primary function for open spaces to ensure a range of recreational experiences are available in each area. Many functions overlap, or there are a range of functions in one space. These functions include:
Passive recreation
Active sports area
Bushland/ conservation
Opportunities to be outdoors in a safe and aesthetically pleasing space that can be used for play, social gatherings, informal games, sports activities, and exercise.
Spaces designed to support individual and team sports training and competition.
Open spaces reserved or provided for the protection of flora and fauna. They may include existing bushland, grassland, wetlands, and waterways.
Waterways
Conservation and heritage
Linear and linkages
Public areas that often serve as a place to manage stormwater and provide open space such as dams, basins, rivers, creeks, rain gardens, and wetlands.
Open spaces reserved or provided for the protection of cultural heritage.
Footpaths and cycleways that provide connections between streets and spaces, which are not located on a road.
COMMUNITY CENTRES AND LIBRARIES
The growing population will generate demand for new libraries and community centres. Unfortunately, the NSW Government does not allow for Council to collect developer contributions towards the construction of these facilities. This means that Council is unable to fund these new facilities without alternative funding sources such as general revenue, grants or Voluntary Planning Agreements with developers.
WATERWAYS AND DRAINAGE
Waterways form part of The Hills' landscape and can include dams, basins, rivers, creeks, rain gardens, and other wetlands. Many are constructed to manage stormwater, sometimes in open space areas or along drainage corridors next to parklands or providing links to them.
Regional
Open spaces that cater to multiple sports and recreation opportunities and serve the entire Shire and visitors. They can be used for local, representative, state, and national sports. These facilities are located close to public transport and also include additional recreational opportunities. An example of a regional facility is Fred Caterson Reserve, Castle Hill.
Water management systems in new release areas are different from those in other areas in The Hills. For example, the NSW Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure’s plan for North Kellyville requires several systems to work together to filter and improve stormwater runoff before it enters creeks and waterways. These systems include detention basins, raingardens, wetlands, biofiltration swales, pollutant traps and rainwater tanks. The design of water management systems focuses on conserving water.
For up-to-date information on new infrastructure under construction in Box Hill and North Kellyville, visit www.thehills.nsw.gov.au and search for ‘Growth Centre Precincts – Box Hill & North Kellyville.’
MAYOR, DR PETER GANGEMI
0419 429 095
mayor.gangemi@thehills.nsw.gov.au
The Council has adopted our 2024/2025 Hills Shire Plan, which is one of our largest and most exciting budgets on record. The Hills Shire Plan is an important annual document that details the services and infrastructure that will be funded for the community each year. Some of the major highlights of the plan include allocating $24.4 million for the Annangrove Road upgrade to four lanes from Edwards Road to Windsor Road. Additionally, $20.2 million will be spent on converting sections of Withers Road to four lanes. Furthermore, $17.6 million has been allocated for the Boundary Road upgrade, to construct a new bridge over Killarney Chain of Ponds Creek, as well as traffic signals at Brocklebank Street and Boundary Road.
Upgrading our infrastructure for Hills families is a top priority of Council. Unfortunately, the NSW Government is seeking to introduce a level of development in this area that is not supported by the adequate level of infrastructure investment from the State.
The NSW Government has assigned our Council the largest housing target in the state over the next five years –an additional 23,300 homes. This is an unfeasible target that will result in a one-third increase in the population over the next five years, placing even more pressure on our existing parks, sportsfields, roads, schools, and hospitals.
Despite poor planning decisions by the NSW Government, Council continues to deliver upgrades to our parks and sportsfields network. I was pleased to open Brindle Parkway Reserve, Box Hill’s first sporting reserve. Hundreds of people turned up to enjoy everything the facility had to offer, including the rugby league fields/cricket oval, the half basketball court, cricket nets, playground and picnic facilities, carpark, pathways, and much more.
We also opened a new off leash dog park at Colbarra Place Reserve in West Pennant Hills. Council have also recently installed four new playgrounds at Balcombe Heights Estate in Baulkham Hills, McGilvray Place Reserve in Rouse Hill, Gooden Drive Reserve in Baulkham Hills and William Harvey Reserve in
Rouse Hill. I encourage you to visit all of our new and upgraded park facilities throughout the Shire.
The Hills Shire Council is committed to playing its part to reduce domestic violence in our area, and Council was pleased to grant $40,000 to The Sanctuary and $30,000 to the Lisa Harnum Foundation, enabling them to support even more families who need it most.
I am also proud that Council has formed our first-ever Disability Inclusion Action Plan Reference Group. This group will provide recommendations to ensure our services, infrastructure, and community facilities are accessible to people of all abilities. I am looking forward to working with the Reference Group as we strive to make The Hills Shire as inclusive a place as possible.
Orange Blossom Festival is returning this September and I am encouraging Hills families to attend our wonderful major and community run events. The Council run major events will be the returning OBF Night Markets at Castle Hill Showground and OBF Parade at Rouse Hill Town Centre, as will a new event that I am particularly excited about - OBF Taste of Wisemans at Wisemans Ferry Park. I also encourage you to come along to one of the many community run events such as Kenthurst Fair, Run for The Hills, the Garden Competition and the Arts Competition. Thank you for continuing to support me as the Mayor, and as always, please don’t hesitate to contact me if I can be of assistance to you.
CLR MARK HODGES DEPUTY MAYOR
CENTRAL WARD 0400 492 842 clr.hodges@thehills.nsw.gov.au
Information about Councillors, Council meetings and latest news can be found on Council’s website www.thehills.nsw.gov.au.
CLR JESSICA BRAZIER
CENTRAL WARD
0400 460 504
clr.brazier@thehills.nsw.gov.au
As I look back on the past three years as your Central Ward councillor, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to represent such a diverse and dynamic
community. It has been a privilege to connect with many of you and advocate for the issues that matter most.
One of the highlights of my term has been the opening of the new Waves Fitness and Aquatic Centre, alongside the Queen Elizabeth II Memorial Rose Garden. My family spends every Saturday morning enjoying the pool and I hope that these facilities will benefit our community for many generations.
I was also pleased to witness the return of the Orange Blossom Festival Parade, which brought our community together in celebration and strengthened connections with local council and groups.
Additionally, commemorating the 20th Anniversary of the Castle Hill Convict Rebellion at the Castle Hill Heritage Park Reserve was a meaningful opportunity to reflect on our area’s history and progress. It’s important for all our residents to understand our local history and how events such as the Rebellion not only shaped our community but played an important role in Australian history.
I want to extend my sincere thanks to the residents of Central Ward for entrusting me with this role. Your input and involvement will continue to be crucial in shaping our community’s path forward. Your support and engagement have been invaluable, and I am committed to continuing to serve you to the best of my abilities.
CLR TONY HAY OAM CENTRAL WARD 0414 482 000
clr.tonyhay@thehills.nsw.gov.au
I wanted to reflect on my time as a Hills Shire Councillor, a position I’ve held for the last 20 years. It’s been quite a journey filled with meaningful milestones and community impact.
My journey began in 2004 when I was elected to the Council, then known as the Baulkham Hills Shire Council. In 2006, I had the honour of becoming the first Labor Mayor for The Hills Shire Council, a role that allowed me to serve in a unique and impactful way.
One of my most rewarding experiences was during the devastating drought of 2006. Together, we launched the ‘Lady Mayoress Drought Relief’ initiative, raising $25,000 to support our Sister City of
Cootamundra. I am deeply grateful for the community’s unwavering support. It was truly heartening.
I also had the pleasure of preserving 1.6 hectares of the critically endangered Sydney Turpentine Ironbark Forest, which now serves as a beautiful nature walk for our residents to enjoy in Ellerman Park, adjacent to Dural Library.
I also advocated strongly for vital projects such as the Showground Road upgrade and oversaw the Castle Hill Eastern Ring Road upgrade.
I have always supported the prudent financial management of Council’s finances, ensuring that money from our ratepayers is spent wisely.
There have been so many incredible moments over the past 20 years, and receiving the Medal of the Order of Australia in 2014 for 25 years of community service was definitely one of them.
Meeting remarkable individuals within our community has also been an absolute privilege. I look forward to continuing to serve the Hills community in new ways. Watch this space for what comes next! Thank you for allowing me to be part of this incredible community journey. Here’s to many more years of progress and service ahead.
CLR JEROME COX EAST WARD 0400 499 157
clr.cox@thehills.nsw.gov.au
Information about Councillors, Council meetings and latest news can be found on Council’s website www.thehills.nsw.gov.au.
CLR REENA JETHI EAST WARD
0412 341 161
clr.jethi@thehills.nsw.gov.au
It’s been wonderful to see new parks and facilities opening for our community to enjoy. I was happy to recently attend the opening of Brindle Parkway Reserve in Box Hill. The new reserve provides Box Hill’s first sportsfields and we celebrated the opening with free coffee, gelato, BBQ, face painting and sporting activities for children and families.
We’ve opened a suite of other sportsfields during this term of Council, including Samantha Riley Drive Reserve in North Kellyville, Balmoral Road Reserve in Kellyville, George Thornton Reserve in West Pennant Hills and Kellyville Memorial Park in Kellyville.
We’ve also opened many new playgrounds, such as Withers Road Reserve in North Kellyville, Equinox Drive Reserve in Box Hill, Bella Vista Farm playground and Hannaford Avenue Reserve in Box Hill.
Another focus area of Council is addressing the congestion we are experiencing on our roads, particularly on Edwards Road, Annangrove Road and Kenthurst Road.
The major upgrade of Annangrove Road between Windsor and Edward Roads has begun and once completed, will include:
• Traffic lights at Withers Road/The Water Lane/Annangrove Road intersection
• New roundabout at Edwards Road/ Annangrove Road intersection
This is a big project that will unfortunately cause delays. However, once these works are completed, travelling along Annangrove Road will be a much smoother and safer experience for everyone.
We have also requested the NSW Government to address these issues with a range of actions, including reclassifying Annangrove Road as a state road due to the traffic volumes this road is experiencing, We have also asked the NSW Government to upgrade Annangrove Road between Edwards Road and Kenthurst Road to four lanes, build a bypass around Dural, Round Corner to connect Annangrove Road with Old Northern Road and upgrade New Line Road to four lanes. I would like to thank our community for your patience during this time.
I am proud of Council’s advocacy for our community, including our recent win with two new schools announced for Box Hill.
Alongside residents, Council has written to the NSW Government for years requesting more schools and finally, a new primary school and a new high school will be built and open by 2028. A temporary primary school will also open in Box Hill next year.
I am passionate about education and local businesses and will continue to advocate for better infrastructure and economic growth in The Hills Shire.
CLR RYAN TRACEY EAST WARD
0419 429 217
clr.tracey@thehills.nsw.gov.au
As I reflect over the last three terms I have served on Council, I recall all the wonderful opportunities I have had to meet with many people, community groups and our volunteers. It has been my honour and privilege to be elected as one of your Councillors and serve you. It has not always been smooth, things like the NSW Government’s proposed Council amalgamations and the global pandemic occurred during this time.
The population has also increased by 60,000 people and we have seen the delivery of infrastructure such as the Sydney Metro North West and NorthConnex along with pressure to increase high density living.
People love The Hills because of its natural beauty, its community connection, great schools, and the quality of life it offers. We are far away enough from the city and close enough to some beautiful bushland and nature reserves, with excellent sporting facilities, great dining, retail, and community facilities. It is a safe area to raise a family.
How do we ensure that the quality of life and the things we value about our community remain? We need to continue to advocate for infrastructure. We are currently meeting and exceeding all our population and dwelling targets and we deserve adequate funding to deliver the things our community requires.
It is important our community and locally elected representatives have a say in planning, so we can protect the character of our suburbs and neighbourhoods we live in and plan our future wisely. It’s also important that we receive appropriate development contribution funding to meet the needs of our community and that we limit residential densification to our town centres, alongside transport hubs and services.
We need to protect our environment, set emission targets, acknowledge our heritage and celebrate the world’s oldest continuous living culture, our First Nations people, and their place in our society and our world.
We need to encourage investment in our local economy and ensure people can keep local when going to work, seeking sporting, art, dining, or entertainment
COUNCILLORS COMMENTS COUNCILLORS COMMENTS
experiences. We need to make town centres inviting and provide more meeting places for people to gather and celebrate. We also need to promote inclusion, provide more accessible parks and infrastructure for people with disability, as well as celebrate and acknowledge our diverse community through large community functions and events.
Additionally, we need to continue to support our community through Hills Community Care and other not-forprofits supporting our community. We need increased engagement with the youth, support mental health initiatives, acknowledge the LGBTQIA+ community having higher rates of mental ill-health and suicide. We need to continue to battle the scourge of domestic violence. A lot needs to be done, however where there is a will there is a way! I have advocated for you and stood up for things that matter to you and it has been my privilege to stand by you during these times.
Thank you to Monika and my wonderful cheer squad for your support. It has also been an honour to represent the ALP and embrace my community during this cherished time.
CLR MITCHELL BLUE NORTH WARD
0400 449 324 clr.blue@thehills.nsw.gov.au
Spring is my favourite time of year and what better time to celebrate the great place that The Hills is, than at this time of year through the month-long Orange Blossom Festival.
This year’s festival will see night markets, the Orange Blossom Parade, a large range of associated activities and something new that I have long advocated for, a showcase of North Ward which will be done through the ‘Taste of Wisemans’ food and wine event at Wisemans Ferry. Keep your eye out for more information on OBF and these activities as there will be something for all.
As this term of Council draws to an end, I cannot help but reflect on the past two and half years. Firstly, I have been honoured to be one of the North Ward Councillors and for the past eighteen months, as your Deputy Mayor. The opportunity has been a privilege and something that I have not taken for granted. North Ward is a diverse ward to represent - from aged care facilities at Glenhaven to five-hundredacre farms in Lower Portland, each area experiencing their own unique challenges.
This term alone, the Hawkesbury River has flooded six times, with each of these events bringing their own difficulties. This flooding caused significant damage to our road and infrastructure along the river, with the repairs still continuing today. Mitigation advocacy continues.
I have made some incredible friendships with our residents this term and understand how important it is to have a connection with the community that one represents. It is through this that I have been able to learn more about The Hills, its history, its issues and how Council’s decisions impact our residents’ daily lives. This has enabled better advocacy.
Thank you to the hundreds, if not thousands of residents that I have encountered over this term, whether it be through a call to report a pothole or seeking my help to arrange stockfeed to a farm during a flood. A vandalised park or a ferry strike, no two requests are the same.
Community engagement is something I am very passionate about. I believe in hearing our residents’ concerns, seeing their issues firsthand and engaging through meaningful conversation. Whilst we may not always agree, I do believe in all being given an opportunity to be heard. This led me to call for a review into Council’s community engagement strategy and policy which has since been reviewed and adopted.
The Hills is a great place to live, a great place to raise a family and a great place to work. Growth brings its challenges, and we see that on a daily basis. We are under increased pressure from the NSW Government to do more. But we need to be realistic, and we need to be sensible – we need to work with and for our communities.
CLR DR MILA KASBY NORTH WARD
0400 597 538
clr.kasby@thehills.nsw.gov.au
Swapping a veterinary consult room for a council chamber is one way to dramatically alter your life - but I did it three years ago because I was concerned - and because I care.
It’s been a steep learning curve and I have a new appreciation for the expertise, hard work and dedication of Council staff.
It’s a huge operation, especially with the tremendous growth and development our Shire is experiencing. There are thousands of opportunities for things to go wrong each day - largely they don’t, and we have our bins taken away, our roads repaired,
parks and sportsfields maintained, new infrastructure rolled out, libraries… the list goes on.
This is the ‘Business as usual’ stuff and it’s absolutely not to be taken for granted. But there are big challenges ahead and that has been my focus.
We are yet to acknowledge climate change, set targets and adopt a net zero policy. We need a climate adaptation plan to protect residents from floods, fires and heatwaves. We need more affordable, sustainable, energy efficient housing while still protecting the leafy character of the Hills. We need to shade the streets of new suburbs, reduce our waste and protect our precious natural green spaces. We need a Youth Council and an Indigenous Advisory committee. (We also need more schools, hospitals and public transport and Council has been calling on the State to do this.)
I can’t say this term as a councillor has been easy nor satisfying but I have loved the chance to meet more of our community - so many people are doing good things – giving countless hours volunteering to improve the lives of others or care for animals and nature.
I have loved being a voice at the table in support of better listening and more community participation, more openness and transparency of process, encouraging acceptance and inclusiveness, supporting our Indigenous community, and championing the protection of our precious natural green spaces.
Australia may be faring better than many parts of the world but local government and the communities we serve are not immune to the multiple crises we’re living through right now. The cost-of-living crisis, housing shortages and unaffordability, the rising risk of cybersecurity, poor mental health and climate impacts are all taking their toll. Councillors have a responsibility to make strategic decisions that will benefit communities now and for future generations to come. Whether I’m there or not, I hope the next term of councillors will serve you all well. It’s been a privilege –much love!
CLR VIRGINIA ELLIS NORTH WARD 0400 552 041
clr.ellis@thehills.nsw.gov.au
Information about Councillors, Council meetings and latest news can be found on Council’s website www.thehills.nsw.gov.au.
CLR ROSEMARIE BONEHAM WEST WARD 0400 551 435 clr.boneham@thehills.nsw.gov.au
Council is approaching the end of its very short term, but despite its brevity, a great deal has been accomplished. Close to my heart, the formation of the first Disability Inclusion Reference Group, the Queen Elizabeth II Memorial Rose Garden upgrade was completed and if you can wait that long to visit, it will feature a Christmas light display. Balmoral Road Reserve at Kellyville was completed, an additional field was installed at Kenthurst Park, Box Hill received its first sporting fields at the opening of the Brindle Parkway Reserve and so much more. The Hills Shire community can be very proud of its Council always operating at a high professional standard. Your General Manager, Michael Edgar and his very capable staff, continue to deliver services and financial stability that makes The Hills Shire Council a benchmark for other Local Government Areas. Council’s 2022-2023 Annual Report also received a Gold Award in the General Award category, the seventh consecutive Gold Award that Council’s annual report has received. Your councillors, under the inspiring leadership and work ethic of our Mayor, Peter Gangemi (who also has an encyclopaedic knowledge of everything happening in the Shire) have also been working hard to deliver great outcomes, balancing the needs of this fast-growing shire with a tight budget. Juggling (or rather struggling) with NSW Government housing targets, natural disasters and unfavourable IPART decisions is an ongoing challenge for us, but everyone is up for it and that’s why we have been able to provide as much as we have. It’s also why more and more people continue to seek out The Hills to call their home. Providing housing, fighting to keep densities liveable, creating more active sporting venues particularly for our young people, while protecting our beautiful, natural spaces, is going to require skill and flexibility and I assure you that we will be diligent in achieving the best possible outcomes.
Just a heads up that we are preparing for the best ever Orange Blossom Festival that will include a delicious new pop-up event at Wisemans Ferry, called aptly, A Taste of Wisemans. I hope that many of you get the opportunity to enjoy the offerings. I would like to thank you for the opportunity to have served you over the past term, and I hope to be able to contribute into the future.
CLR DR BARBARA BURTON WEST WARD 0400 452 389
clr.burton@thehills.nsw.gov.au
Prior to the last elections in 2021, I promised more sporting fields. Under the leadership of Mayor Peter Gangemi this current Council has been collaborative and inclusive and has sought to work for the good of the community. I am happy to report that the sportsfields completed since December 2021 include:
• Brindle Parkway Reserve, Box Hill – new site. Completed June 2024
• Samantha Riley Drive Reserve, North Kellyville – new site. Completed September 2023
• Balmoral Rd Reserve, Kellyville – new site. Completed July 2022
• Kenthurst Park, Kenthurst – additional field. Completed April 2023
• George Thornton Reserve, West Pennant Hills – additional field. Completed January 2024
• Kellyville Memorial Park, Kellyville –additional field. Completed Dec 2021
Other recreational facility projects of note include:
• Withers Road Reserve, North Kellyville. New Local Reserve. Completed August 2023
• Equinox Reserve, Box Hill. New Local Reserve. Completed December 2021
• Bella Vista Farm Playground. New playground. Completed October 2022
• Hannaford Reserve, Box Hill. New Local Reserve. Completed June 2022
• AH Whaling Rose Garden upgrade. Completed April 2023
CLR FRANK DE MASI WEST WARD 0439 013 343
clr.demasi@thehills.nsw.gov.au
Orange Blossom Festival
As we welcome spring, we also celebrate the rich history of The Hills Shire, once renowned for its orange orchards. Despite the transformation of the area from rural to urban with the expansion of Sydney, the Orange Blossom Festival remains a cherished tradition that honours our past. This year, the Orange Blossom Festival offers a variety of events. Enjoy the annual Parade at Rouse Hill Town Centre, the Night
Markets at Castle Hill Showground, and the newly introduced “A Taste of Wisemans” – a food, wine, and produce festival at Wisemans Ferry Park.
Everyone is welcome to join these festivities. More details are available at www. orangeblossomfestival.com.au to help you plan ahead. These family-friendly events are a wonderful opportunity to celebrate our community and the arrival of spring.
Waves Fitness and Aquatic CentreExercise Physiology Service
During the previous term of Council, the construction of the new Waves Fitness and Aquatic Centre included a rehabilitation component to serve the needs of The Hills’ residents. After advocating for this feature, I never imagined I would personally benefit from the rehabilitation pool and gymnasium following my recent hip replacement surgery.
The Council has now introduced an Exercise Physiology Service at Waves, offering professional guidance to exercise safely and improve overall health and function. Whether recovering from surgery, managing an injury, or dealing with health conditions such as diabetes or heart disease, tailored programs are available for a minimal fee.
Experiencing the Waves facility firsthand and meeting fellow residents using it for rehabilitation has been a pleasure. The facility also offers exercise classes for seniors. For more information, visit the Council’s website or contact the friendly team at Waves Fitness and Aquatic Centre.
End of Council Term
On 14 September 2024, Local Government Elections will be held across NSW, giving you the opportunity to elect a new Council. I am proud to have been part of a progressive, fiscally responsible Council that meets the needs of our residents. Some of the highlights this term saw the opening of the Waves Fitness and Aquatic Centre and other major projects like Balmoral Reserve, Samantha Riley Reserve, and Brindle Parkway Reserve, providing much-needed sporting fields. We also completed upgrades to many parks and new cycleways. The purchase of Castle Mall Shopping Centre will enhance the Castle Hill Town Centre precinct. It was also a privilege to lead the renaming of the rose garden at AH Whaling Reserve to the Queen Elizabeth II Memorial Rose Garden. Last year I went on a self-funded study tour of Singapore, Hong Kong and Japan to see what we can do as a Council to better manage Waste Services and manage the costs associated to give a better deal back to our residents by touring a Waste to Energy Facility. Thank you for your support during my second term on the Council.
WHAT’S ON AT THE PIONEER THEATRE
The Pioneer Theatre is located on Level 1, 12 - 14 Pennant Street, Castle Hill (below Castle Hill Library). To book tickets for upcoming shows, visit: www.pioneertheatre.com.au
Avenue Q performed by Blackout Theatre Company
Friday 4 October to Sunday 13 October 2024
The hilarious, award-winning, puppet-filled comedy, Avenue Q, is coming to the Pioneer Theatre this October. When bright-eyed college graduate Princeton moves into a shabby New York apartment in Avenue Q, he quickly discovers that Avenue Q is no ordinary neighbourhood.
With big dreams and little money, Princeton humorously navigates moving into the city, meeting his eclectic neighbours, searching for new jobs, finding love, and unearthing the ever-elusive purpose of life.
Filled with lively humour, a delightful score, and entertaining puppets, the musical has quickly become a fan favourite. Inspired by the puppet-filled world of the beloved children’s show, Sesame Street, Avenue Q’s puppet world colourfully and captivatingly confronts difficult adult questions about life.
Please note: This show is NOT recommended for children, as it contains adult themes, explicit language and puppet nudity.
Urinetown the Musical by Hornsby Musical Society
Friday 1 November to Sunday 10 November 2024
The wickedly funny, satirical musical Urinetown is coming to the Pioneer Theatre this November.
In a town crippled by water scarcity caused by a 20-year drought, chaos is unleased when the government bans private toilets and public toilets become privatised.
If the poor fail to obey the strict rules which prohibit free urination, they will be sent to the dreadful Urinetown. Amidst the mistreated people, a hero grows tired of the malevolent powers who have caused so much suffering and plans a revolution to lead the town to freedom.
With the whimsical exuberance of a cartoon, this lively musical cleverly satirises the legal system, capitalism, social irresponsibility, and much more.
