The Hawkesbury, the Rum Rebellion & the Fight for the Colony's Future
Hawkesbury tells the history of todays Australia.
Discovering the Hidden Heart of the Hawkesbury
A Journey to St Albans and the Upper Macdonald Valley
Hawkesbury's social glue is stretched as migration debate intensifies
A four part series on the impact of migration on Hawkesbury residents.
The Old Trees of Hawkesbury Still Stand Watch
By Phil Burkitt In the Hawkesbury, history is not only found in sandstone buildings and old farm fences it also lives quietly in the trees. Across the district, some of the region’s oldest trees continue to shape the landscape, offering shade, character and a living connection to generations past.
The Fragility of Goodness
The Fragility of Goodness: The Prison on the Landscape and Other Stories 16 May - 16 August 2026 Bathurst Regional Gallery (BRAG)
Locals Go ‘Batty’ for Upgraded Little Cattai Creek Bridge
Drivers travelling through Cattai can now cross Little Cattai Creek with greater confidence after major flood damage repairs to the bridge were officially completed and it’s not just motorists benefiting from the upgrade. The project, carried out by Transport for NSW, repaired significant damage caused by the record-breaking
Empowering Everyone: The Environmental Ripple Effect
As the saying goes "Be the change you wish to see in the world."
Bilpin florist blooms again with top Hawkesbury Show honour
Bilpin’s Jane MacKinnon has once again proven she’s a cut above the rest, taking out the coveted Most Successful Exhibitor ribbon in floristry at this year’s Hawkesbury Show, her third consecutive win. The Bilpin Buds founder said she was still coming to terms with the achievement after
Funding boost for local ideas as Council community sponsorship round opens
Applications of up to $3000 close 31 May 2026.
Healing Paws Program Bringing Joy Across the Hawkesbury
A quiet but powerful program is making a big impact across the Hawkesbury, connecting generations and building brighter futures one paw at a time. The Healing Paws Program, led by RuffTRACK Londonderry, has emerged as a standout initiative this term, with young participants visiting aged care homes and early learning
Safety Concerns Over Lighting at Windsor Car Park
Concerns about pedestrian safety in one of Windsor’s busiest public spaces are growing, following a social media video highlighting poor lighting conditions in the town’s main car park. The video, produced and distributed by Hawkesbury businessman and community advocate Scott Hinks, draws attention to the car park at
You’re not alone: Experts say social connection key to health and wellbeing
It might sound like a contradiction, but if you’re feeling lonely, you’re not alone. According to researchers at the Thompson Institute, one in four Australians experience persistent loneliness highlighting a widespread issue with real consequences for health and well-being. But there is a positive message as well:
Music to your ears and your mind
Research shows that listening to, and playing, your favourite songs can help delay dementia.
Council set to borrow up to $43 million for Richmond Swimming Pool renovation
Hawkesbury City Council secured $30.3 million in WestInvest funding in January 2023 to rebuild the ageing Richmond Swimming Centre. The then-Mayor Cr McMahon promised work would begin within 12 months. Three and a half years later, the project remains in consultation phase, costs may have doubled, and Council
Richmond ANZAC Day Commemorations 2026: Join the March and Dawn Service
Richmond RSL Sub-branch will once again lead the ANZAC Day march along West Market, Windsor, and East Market Streets to the Richmond War Memorial in Richmond Park. The procession begins at 2:30pm on Sunday 19 April 2026. The march will be led by the Light Horse, veterans in
Breast cancer doesn’t wait & neither should you
Free screening available in Hawkesbury region
“Protection Play”: Hawkesbury Residents Urged to Take Control of Online Betting
With online betting now available 24/7, Hawkesbury residents are being encouraged to take a closer look at how easily a quick wager can turn into something more serious, and what protections are already at their fingertips. A new awareness push, dubbed “Protection Play,” highlights the simple tools built into
Stay safe around water this Easter
Stay safe around water this Easter As visitors flock to Hawkesbury's stunning waterways and National Parks ahead of the Easter long weekend, people are urged to stay vigilant and safe around water. Pristine beaches and tranquil rivers and lakes are natural environments that can be unpredictable and pose
Hawkesbury Student Leaders Step Inside NSW Parliament
Hawkesbury student leaders are gaining firsthand insight into how New South Wales Parliament operates through a long-running leadership program designed to inspire the next generation. Now in its 51st year, the initiative gives Year 12 leaders including school captains a practical understanding of how laws are made, the role
Staying informed without feeling overwhelmed
With news available 24/7, many Hawkesbury residents are feeling the mental strain of constant headlines about global conflict, political upheaval, and natural disasters. Experts say it is possible to stay informed without becoming overwhelmed and local strategies can help. Professor Alexandra Wake, from RMIT University’s School of Media
Win Tickets to the Easter Show
HAWKESBURY GAZETTE COMPETITION WIN! Sydney Royal Easter Show Tickets 2 – 13 April 2026 · Sydney Olympic Park WIN TICKETS to the Greatest Show of the Year! 2 × Family Pass (4 tickets each) Public Transport Included What's On at the Show Imagine a Horse Night-time equine extravaganza with iridescent
“Don’t risk it”: Boaters warned as dangerous swell set to hit NSW coast
Boaters and rock fishers are being urged to stay off the water, with dangerous conditions forecast to batter the New South Wales coastline over the coming days. Marine Rescue NSW has issued a strong warning ahead of a major swell event expected from Friday, with hazardous surf and gale-force
Hawkesbury's Healthy Little Heroes
Small Business with Big Heart Empowering Children with Lifelong Healthy Habits
Classic Cruise Hawkesbury: Revving Up for a Cause
Motor enthusiasts, families and community supporters are being invited to kick tyres and spread smiles at the upcoming Classic Cruise Hawkesbury, a fundraising event in support of children facing cancer, presented by Camp Quality. The event is set to unfold on Saturday, 28 March 2026 at the Hawkesbury Showground in
Hawkesbury Community Sponsorship Program – Round 2 Now Open
Applications are open from 1 March to 31 March
Hawkesbury International Women’s Day morning tea
Community members gathered in the Council Chambers this week to celebrate the achievements and contributions of local women as part of International Women’s Day. The event, hosted by Hawkesbury City Council, brought together men and women from across the region to reflect on this year’s global theme, “Give
Safety Boost for Pedestrians near Richmond High School
Pedestrian safety has been improved near Richmond High School with the completion of a new refuge island on Castlereagh Road. Transport for NSW has installed the pedestrian refuge between Hereford Street and John Tebbutt Place, providing a safer crossing point for the many students and residents who use the busy
Hawkesbury Writers Encouraged to Enter 2026 CRAFT Award for Excellence
Aspiring and established writers across the Hawkesbury are being encouraged to put pen to paper and aim for international recognition, with submissions now open for the 2026 CRAFT Award for Excellence. Hosted by respected US-based literary journal CRAFT, the annual award celebrates outstanding unpublished prose and offers a significant
Hawkesbury to Celebrate International Women’s Day with Week of Community Events
From mandala-making and morning teas to a High Tea at Windsor, the Hawkesbury will come together from 2 March to celebrate International Women’s Day (IWD) 2026, a global day recognising the achievements of women and the ongoing pursuit of equality. This year’s theme, Rights. Justice. Action. For
No free swimming lessons for Hawkesbury residents
Despite the NSW Government committing $6 million to a Learn to Swim Program targeting communities at the highest risk of drowning, the Hawkesbury has been excluded from funded learn to swim lessons. The program is explicitly aimed at people living in disadvantaged areas, multicultural communities, First Nations communities, and those
World Braille Day: Celebrating the Power of Touch and Inclusion in the Hawkesbury
World Braille Day: Celebrating the Power of Touch and Inclusion in the Hawkesbury Every year on January 4, the world marks World Braille Day, a day dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of Braille, an essential communication tool for blind and partially sighted people. This year, as we celebrate
Volunteer grants roll out to 21 local organisations
Making things easier for the volunteers who step up to provide hot meals, groceries, and a friendly face for a chat has been a focus of the Volunteer Grants program, according to Federal Member for Macquarie, Susan Templeman. Across the Hawkesbury there are 21 not-for-profit groups who have
The Ritual of the Third Thursday Coffee Club
Every month, around 9 a.m., the men trickle into the Park Mall Café on Richmond’s main street. These men are all former employees of Prospect County Council (PCC), once responsible for the electricity distribution west of the Hawkesbury River.
The Wollemi Pine and its Small Southern Family
By Phil Burkitt Hidden deep within rugged sandstone gorges northwest of Sydney, the Wollemi pine stands as one of Australia’s most remarkable botanical discoveries, a living link to the age of the dinosaurs. Discovered only in 1994 by a bushwalker David Noble in Wollemi National Park, just north of
Colo Student’s Artwork Selected for Prestigious William Wilkins Collection
Colo High School is celebrating a moment of immense pride, with 2024 Year 12 graduate Evangeline Cruz-Tabua (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
Celebrating Hawkesbury's Men
Honouring the Men Who Strengthen the Hawkesbury this International Men's Day 19 November
Maria Locke: Daughter of the Hawkesbury, Pioneer of Two Worlds
Australia's modern history was made here in the Hawkesbury
Windsor Ten Pin Bowling Strikes 40 Years in the Community
Windsor Ten Pin marks 40 years as Hawkesbury’s retro bowling hub—keeping free-fall pins, league spirit, and local memories rolling.
If we don’t show up and raise our voices then fear wins
Reclaim the Night: Standing Together for Women’s Safety Thursday 30 October.
NSW Ambulance comes to Bilpin District– just to talk!
By Mark McDonnell On September 24 seven representatives of NSW Ambulance came to Bilpin District Hall to speak to locals about setting up a Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) service. They wanted to see whether locals would be willing to act as unpaid volunteers to be medical first responders, for
Sarah McMahon Fires Back! But Her Claims Don’t Stack Up
As the Hawkesbury heads into another fire season, it’s more important than ever for our community to stand together. Guided by facts, trust, and respect for those who protect us. False claims and political spin only serve to divide us at a time when unity matters most.
Glossodia Public School Canteen Licence
Tenders are called for the licence of the school canteen for the school year commencing on 9 February 2026 for a term of 1 year with an option to renew for 2 additional years.
Tastes and Talent Shine at Savour the Flavour
There was something for everyone. The range of food stalls showcased the incredible diversity of local and regional producers.
Community Comes Together for a Cause: Pink Ribbon Brunch at Windsor Golf Club
Windsor Golf Club will host a special Pink Ribbon Brunch on Thursday, 30th October from 10am to 12pm, inviting locals to come together for conversation, connection, and a meaningful cause — supporting the National Breast Cancer Foundation. The event, hosted by Deputy Mayor Sarah McMahon, promises an uplifting morning featuring a
Hawkesbury Roads Crumble as Council Eyes Major Rate Hikes
Frustrated drivers across the Hawkesbury say local roads are worse than ever, with deepening potholes stretching from Bilpin to St Albans making even short trips nerve-wracking. After years of floods and relentless wet weather, the damage is widespread — and residents say their patience has run out. Community advocate Warren
Local Physiotherapist Supports Deaf Football Australia on the World Stage
For Hawkesbury physiotherapist Arron Devine, volunteering with Deaf Football Australia has become more than just a professional contribution — it’s a journey rooted in community, inclusion and giving back. For over seven years, Devine has volunteered his skills to support the organisation, attending more than a dozen week-long training
MacKillop Family Services Invites Hawkesbury Families to Celebrate Pride and Safe Homes for All Children
This Saturday, tomorrow, MacKillop Family Services is sharing in the colour, connection, and community spirit of the annual Parramatta Pride Picnic — a vibrant celebration of inclusion. MacKillop invites LGBTIQA+ individuals, families, and allies from across Greater Western Sydney and the Hawkesbury to come together in support of children in care.
Local News Delivered with Meals on Wheels
Partnership connects older residents with community stories
Hawkesbury far behind neighbours in disaster preparedness
Falling behind our neighbours in disaster infrastructure
Building More Than Benches: The Men’s Shed in Richmond
“It keeps me out of the pub. The atmosphere’s friendly. Some blokes come in really uptight at first, but after a while they relax, they talk. It makes a difference.”
“Dementia is the only disease where you’re not supported to fight for your life.”
Dementia is now the second leading cause of death in Australia
And what are they doing for the Hawkesbury?
Why are Hawkesbury specific issues barely mentioned at our local political party meetings?
Hawkesbury in the Firing Line: Climate Report Warns of Growing Risks
The National Climate Risk Assessment warns the Hawkesbury faces escalating flood, bushfire, and heatwave threats - locals are calling for urgent investment in infrastructure and emergency planning.
A New Chapter for Tractor 828
Since taking over on July 1st, Joanne Sepping is determined to uphold this Ebenezer café’s country charm and tasty menu that keep local faces returning.
Free Virtual Health Care Now Available for Hawkesbury Residents
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
Koala Fest Returns to Kurrajong
Since 2014, Science for Wildlife has been documenting koalas across landscapes from Wollemi National Park to the leafy streets of Kurrajong. Their research has uncovered an encouraging story of survival, showing that local habitats still hold the key to the species’ future.
Council Votes for 80% Rent Rise on Not-for-Profit Childcare Centres
Hawkesbury City Council has voted to increase rents on community-based early childhood education centres operating from Council-owned buildings, phasing them up to 80 per cent of commercial rates over the next four years. Under the decision, centres will face a 20 per cent rise this year, with annual
Redbank Village Welcomes Stage 2
A new chapter now open in North Richmond with specialty stores and amenities.
Push for ‘Water Curtain’ to Shield Western Sydney from Bushfires
Fire chiefs, residents, business and community leaders renew call for roadside water tanks to stop bushfires from entering Western Sydney
Heart and Soul of the Hawkesbury: Dan the man
"Daniel’s warm heart, energy, and trademark cackling laugh brighten even the toughest day".
Across Hawkesbury all you see is gold and green
Blooming with Pride: Wattle Day Marks the First Day of Spring
What’s going on in Early Childhood Education and Care?
Early Childhood Education and Care (ECEC) is back in the headlines—too often for the wrong reasons.
The Clarendon Classic. Engines, history and community spirit power
We love having families and the wider community come along,” Franks said. “It’s a great day out, it supports a good cause, and it keeps our rural heritage alive
Save Your Pet & Wildlife From Poison
At North Richmond Vet Hospital, we regularly treat cats and dogs that have been poisoned by rodenticides and heartbreakingly, not all survive.
RAAF Richmond Airshow 2025 to Celebrate a Century of Service
The skies above the Hawkesbury will roar to life this spring when the RAAF Richmond Airshow returns on Saturday 27 and Sunday 28 September 2025, marking 100 years since RAAF Base Richmond was established. Billed as one of the largest aviation events in the region’s history, the weekend will
Richmond Lions Sleepout braves the storm for Hope4U
“Although the weather was against us this year, with storms, constant rain and freezing temperatures, it only further demonstrated the reality that members of our community — and people right across the country — have to contend with each and every day.”
Hawkesbury March for Humanity
“I had to stop watching the images of what’s happening in Gaza — it felt like a modern-day holocaust, and I felt powerless,”
Fact or Fake? Educating The Hawkesbury About Fake News
Equipping Hawkesbury residents, young and old, with the ability to recognise fake news is an essential first step in fighting back.
Cattai kids dig deep for platypus protection
Cattai Public School students swapped classrooms for creek banks on Thursday, 24 July, joining a special environmental education day designed to inspire the next generation of platypus protectors. The event formed part of the Resilient Rivers for Resilient Hawkesbury Platypus Populations project (RRRP), led by the Hawkesbury Environment Network and
Veterans honoured at St John of God Richmond Hospital Commemoration Service
Under a bright winter sky, more than a hundred guests gathered last Thursday at St John of God Richmond Hospital for the annual Veterans’ Day Commemoration Service—a moving tribute to those who have served and continue to serve our nation. Among the attendees were Hawkesbury Mayor Les Sheather, Councillor
Hawkesbury Social Media Ban for Under 16 Year Olds
A world-first step in the right direction for Hawkesbury and Australian children’s online safety, mental health and wellbeing.
Caring for Country Together: A Community Pathway for the Hawkesbury
Sometimes, big changes—like floods, fires, or long dry spells—can affect how we live. But instead of only reacting to problems, we can prepare in advance by strengthening what already works
NDIS Cuts: A Blow to the Macquarie Electorate’s Most Vulnerable
By Sarah Langston In July 2025, sweeping changes to the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) quietly came into force. These changes are reshaping the scheme’s reach and effectiveness, especially for those in regional and rural communities like ours here in the Macquarie electorate, which includes the Hawkesbury and the
Bringing compassionate care to Hawkesbury doorsteps
Nurse Next Door is an Australian government approved home care packaged provider.
Macquarie Towns Orchestra hits the right note for over 50 years
Everyone from school-aged musicians to seasoned professionals can find their place in the ensemble, and the orchestra is also welcoming new players.
Richmond Lions Club Sleepout returns to shine a light on mental health
“Too many people are suffering in silence. This is about starting honest conversations, breaking stigma and reminding people they’re not alone."