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By Julie Ryan A proposal to allow two separate homes on eligible rural and conservation properties in the Hawkesbury has completed public exhibition, bringing potential new housing options for families and farm workers a step closer. Community submissions closed on 29 October 2026. Hawkesbury City Council will now review the submissions before forwarding the proposal, […]

by Greg Martin After almost six decades working at RAAF Base Richmond, Tony Simpson is finally flying the coop. The 77-year-old has spent 58 years at the base 20 as an airman and another 38 in security, working for the RAAF and later private contractors Serco Group and MSS Security. Tony has certainly “lived a […]

Many families in the Hawkesbury know what it’s like to watch a member of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) head off for their duties, whether it’s a disaster recovery operation, exercise, or military operation. Last month I got the chance to take part as an observer of the Keris Woomera exercise that Australia does in […]

Hawkesbury City Council has launched a podcast to help residents understand local decisions and what they mean for the community. The first episode of Chambers and Beyond is now available, offering an accessible look at the decisions, projects and services shaping the Hawkesbury. Hosted by Council’s General Manager Will Barton, the podcast features Mayor Mary […]

Windsor is known to have its fair share of ghost stories – but could they be true? Hawkesbury Regional Museum is back with a frightful lineup of Halloween events this October, and whether you’re looking for a fun activity for the kids or something a bit more haunting, you’re bound to have a chilling spooky […]

By Elizabeth Frias Spacious backyards, sweeping views of rolling green hills and occasional wildlife visitors make Kurmond an appealing place to call home. Less than two hours north-west of Sydney’s CBD, the semi-rural Hawkesbury village is home to nearly 900 residents. Its landscape reflects a rich agricultural history, with surrounding farms once producing milk, beef, […]

By Greg Martin This year marks the centenary of the Richmond–Kurrajong Railway Line, affectionately known as the Pansy Line. To celebrate, the Kurrajong-Comleroy Historical Society (KCHS) will host a ‘Virtual Tour’ at Panthers North Richmond at 1pm on Sunday, 22 November. Bookings are required, so secure your spot by purchasing tickets – $15 for adults […]

Hawkesbury Residents are encouraged to create or update their Bushfire Survival Plan by attending the Rural Fire Service’s Get Ready Weekend on Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 September 2026. The bushfire danger period is from 1 October 2026 to 31 March 2027; however, it can vary due to local conditions. By attending Get Ready Weekend, […]

Hills Shire residents are invited to celebrate 20 years of the Community Environment Centre at a free celebration event on Sunday 29 November 2026. Held from 10am to 2pm at the Community Environment Centre at Annangrove Park, the event will feature local market and community stalls, as well as a free native plant giveaway and […]

People with disability, carers and professionals working in disability, access and inclusion are invited to apply for The Hills Shire Council’s Disability Inclusion Reference Group. The group will help guide the implementation of Council’s newly adopted Disability Inclusion Action Plan (DIAP) 2026–2030, which aims to improve accessibility across Council streets, venues, programs and services. Mayor […]

By Lorna Gordon Four talented women from the Hills are preparing to take on some of the world’s best singers after winning the Australian National Barbershop Championships. Alouette, an a cappella quartet featuring Vicky, Diane, Crystal and Jane, will represent Australia at the International Convention in Ohio, USA, this October, marking another exciting milestone in […]

A new shared path along Norwest Boulevard is giving people a safer and more convenient way to walk or cycle between homes, workplaces, shops and public transport. The Hills Shire Council has completed the 2.6-kilometre Norwest Boulevard Shared Path, upgrading the existing footpath on the eastern side of the road between Windsor Road and Old […]

By Janakan Seemampillai The Greater Western Sydney (GWS) Giants were created with one of the most ambitious objectives in Australian sport: to establish Australian football in the nation’s fastest-growing and most diverse region. More than a decade after entering the AFL, the club has achieved remarkable success on the field, regularly playing finals, developing elite […]

Federal Member for Chifley Ed Husic has joined three Western Sydney mayors and a large crowd of community members to call for the Metro rail “missing link” between Tallawong and St Marys to be built. The former NSW Coalition Government ended the Metro line at Tallawong despite booming residential growth across north-west Sydney. At a […]

Tickets are now on sale for Western Sydney’s premier light and sound show, with visitors encouraged to snap up discounted early bird tickets before they disappear. Echoes – Moon Garden will transform Bella Vista Farm from Friday 18 September to Sunday 11 October 2026. After dark, visitors can wander through a secret garden filled with […]

Federal Member for Chifley Ed Husic has joined three Western Sydney mayors and a large crowd of community members to call for the Metro rail “missing link” between Tallawong and St Marys to be built. The former NSW Coalition Government ended the Metro line at Tallawong despite booming residential growth across north-west Sydney. At a […]

Blacktown City residents are being encouraged to get into the Christmas spirit by decorating their homes, attending the much-loved carols and supporting families in need. Blacktown City Mayor Brad Bunting said this was a special time that brought people together and showcased the warmth of our community. “Christmas is one of the most anticipated times […]

Flowery garlands and rhythmic hand drumming were among the sights and sounds as the first Pasifika Unity Festival delivered a slice of island life to Blacktown City. Melanesian, Micronesian and Polynesian communities shared their traditions and cultural performances over the 31 October and 1 November weekend at Blacktown Football Park, Rooty Hill. Blacktown City Mayor […]

Time is running out to enter the Blacktown City Diwali Lights Competition with nominations for the colourful celebration of culture and community closing on Friday 30 October. The Blacktown City Council competition encourages people to create vibrant and imaginative displays that showcase the spirit of the South Asian festival while sharing its message of hope, […]

By Christine Rau “Together we’ll have to discover new ways to reinhabit the territories we destroyed while doing commerce. “Avant-garde communities built on solidarity, not hate – that funny neighbour with a greenhouse; the one who still knows how to fix a machine, who generates electricity with a bicycle. “These tiny projects – marginal, a […]

By Janakan Seemampillai The Greater Western Sydney (GWS) Giants were created with one of the most ambitious objectives in Australian sport: to establish Australian football in the nation’s fastest-growing and most diverse region. More than a decade after entering the AFL, the club has achieved remarkable success on the field, regularly playing finals, developing elite […]

People of all ages are invited to a day of free activities on Saturday 26 September at Charlie Lowles Leisure Centre Emerton to celebrate a milestone in 2026. Enjoy a free swim, a slice of birthday cake and a party atmosphere in honour of 20 years since the venue expanded. Take part in a mega […]

Federal Member for Chifley Ed Husic has joined three Western Sydney mayors and a large crowd of community members to call for the Metro rail “missing link” between Tallawong and St Marys to be built. The former NSW Coalition Government ended the Metro line at Tallawong despite booming residential growth across north-west Sydney. At a […]

Aboriginal-led organisations in the Mount Druitt electorate can apply for a share of $625,000 to deliver primary prevention initiatives using sport and active recreation to address the drivers of domestic, family and sexual violence (DFSV). The Aboriginal Sport for Respect Grant Program empowers Aboriginal-led organisations and communities to deliver culturally grounded programs that encourage positive […]