Latest News
Free Seniors Forum to Launch National Seniors Hawkesbury Branch
Event will be held on Tuesday, 24 February at Hawkesbury Central Library
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
Costa comes to Bilpin
Biggest is best for a zucchini competition, but Costa Georgiadis spoke about the small things that transform a garden to an ecosystem
SharkSmart warning issued as Hawkesbury residents head to the coast
NSW authorities are urging beachgoers to take extra care in the ocean following recent shark incidents along the state’s coastline, reminding swimmers and surfers that while risks cannot be eliminated, they can be reduced. The warning comes as many Hawkesbury residents head to the beach during the warmer months,
Expansion begins at Australia’s Oldest Retirement Village
Australia’s oldest retirement living community has entered a new chapter, with construction officially underway on a major expansion at Anglicare’s Castle Hill Villages. The first sod was turned this week on the next stage of development at the historic site, which has been providing retirement living and aged
NSW Ambulance Vessel Reaches Remote Patient on Hawkesbury River
A specialised NSW Ambulance Patient Extrication Vessel (PEV) from Point Clare was put to the test last week when crews successfully reached a patient at a remote home along the Hawkesbury River. The callout came to a property in Canoelands, where very shallow and muddy conditions at low tide had
Councillor briefings to end under NSW transparency reform
Hawkesbury Councillors will no longer be able to hold private briefing sessions on matters destined for council decisions, following major transparency reforms introduced by the NSW Government. Now all NSW councils, including Hawkesbury City Council, must comply with a new Model Code of Meeting Practice that significantly tightens the rules
Thriving Kids and the NDIS
Governments have made a deal - should Hawkesbury Blue Mountains families accept it?
A New Era for NSW Planning: What the Planning System Reform Means for Hawkesbury
After years of debate and consultation, the NSW Government’s landmark Planning System Reform Act 2025 has officially become law, marking one of the most significant overhauls of the state’s planning framework in decades. The reform is expected to reshape how development is approved, how communities engage with planning
New Missile Storage Facility in Hawkesbury's Front Yard.
A major injection of $508 million into defence projects at Orchard Hills is set to create more than 2,000 jobs across the Hawkesbury and Western Sydney region, delivering a significant economic boost for local communities. The Australian Government has announced two major contracts under its Guided Weapons and Explosive
Hawkesbury Farmers Call for Stronger Climate Action
Hawkesbury farmers back call for stronger climate action as floods and fires take toll and Coles supports Net Zero
Grants to Boost Dementia Care in Hawkesbury
According to the 2021 Australian Bureau of Statistics Census, approximately 97 people in the Hawkesbury local government area reported having dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease. However, experts believe the actual number may be higher due to under-reporting and undiagnosed cases. Local groups in the Hawkesbury region are encouraged to apply
New Medicare Urgent Care Clinic Opens
Residents now have access to a new Medicare Urgent Care Clinic on 2 Kable St, Windsor with the service officially opening its doors today. The clinic is designed to provide free, walk-in urgent care for a range of non-life-threatening illnesses and injuries, helping to take pressure off local hospital emergency
New transport plan for communities from North Richmond to Lithgow
Have your say before 6 February 2026
Building Code Set to Refresh Hawkesbury construction Industry
The national building industry has been handed a welcome dose of certainty, with the Building Ministers’ Meeting on 20 October 2025 confirming the finalisation of the National Construction Code (NCC) 2025 and a pause on further residential changes until at least 2029. Commonwealth, state and territory building ministers agreed that,
Two major decisions loom for Hawkesbury Council in 2026
Election of a Mayor and renewal or otherwise of the General Manager contract.
Vince Takes Hawkesbury to Idol
At just 25 years old, Hawkesbury’s own Vince Phillips is making waves on this season of Australian Idol, captivating audiences nationwide with his big heart, country charm, and undeniable talent. The youngest of 10 siblings, Vince grew up in a lively, musical household where singing was second nature. Surrounded
Hawkesbury Australia Day Award winners
Community champions honoured at 2026 Hawkesbury Australia Day Awards Outstanding community members and organisations were celebrated at the 2026 Hawkesbury Australia Day Awards, with Mayor Les Sheather praising the dedication, compassion and leadership shown across the Hawkesbury. Hawkesbury City Mayor Les Sheather said he was delighted to recognise the incredible
Hawkesbury City Council Welcomes New Citizens on Australia Day
On Australia Day, Hawkesbury City Council proudly hosted a Citizenship Ceremony welcoming twenty-nine new Australian citizens from diverse backgrounds to the region. The event was a heartfelt celebration of Australia’s rich multicultural fabric, community spirit, and the shared values that unite people from all walks of life. Each new
NDIS Reforms Leave Mental health supports falling through the cracks
3,780 people in the Hawkesbury area are likely living with a disability
Helping Wildlife During Heatwaves
By Sarah Thompson It’s a real scorcher outside, and keeping cool becomes an obsession. But while you’re busy setting up fans and reaching for the ice blocks, spare a thought for our native wildlife, they can’t soak in a spa or flop onto the lounge in air-conditioned
Kumud Merani to Represent Hawkesbury as Australia Day Ambassador
With Australia Day just around the corner, the Hawkesbury community is set to welcome Kumud Merani as its Australia Day Ambassador, marking her 14th year in the role and her first official representation to the Hawkesbury region. A trailblazing media professional, actor and multicultural advocate, Ms Merani said representing Hawkesbury
Illegal Bikes Threaten Windsor Downs Reserve
Concerns are growing among residents over illegal dirt bike activity at Windsor Downs Nature Reserve, with locals warning the behaviour is threatening public safety and damaging the protected natural environment. The reserve, valued for its peaceful walking tracks and abundant wildlife, is a popular destination for families, walkers and cyclists
Government Incentives to assist Hawkesbury Home Buyers
With housing affordability remaining a major concern across New South Wales, a range of government incentives and financial supports are designed to help buyers enter the property market or reduce the cost of purchasing a home. From stamp duty concessions to shared equity schemes and grants for new builds, these
Construction begins on new Richmond Agricultural Centre
Construction has officially begun on the long-awaited Richmond Agricultural Centre, delivering a world-class education in agriculture and science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) as part of the NSW Government’s plan to rebuild public education. The centre will be co-located with Western Sydney University’s Hawkesbury campus and will cater
Severe Thunderstorm Warning Issued for Hawkesbury LGA
BOM issues warning. Tune into ABC Sydney Radio 702 AM for emergency updates.
Big Changes to How Residents Can Speak at Hawkesbury Council Meetings in 2026
From January 1, 2026, residents of the Hawkesbury will notice a significant change in how they can have their say at local council meetings. This is part of sweeping reforms introduced by the NSW Government to improve transparency and order in council decision-making. The NSW Government legislated these changes following
Screen and Gaming Addiction a Growing Concern for Hawkesbury Families
As digital devices become an inseparable part of everyday life at home, school, and work health experts are raising concerns about the growing risk of problematic screen use and gaming addiction, especially among children and teenagers in the Hawkesbury region. While most people use smartphones, streaming services, social media, and
Hawkesbury Children Disadvantaged by Poor Council
Child Care Subsidy Changes No Help as Council Increases Rent to Early Childhood Education Centres
If you think this road is unsafe...
Council Clarifies Road Maintenance Process After Sign Appears on Lower Colo Road
Construction Commences at Jacaranda Housing Estate in Glossodia
Construction Commences at Jacaranda Housing Estate in Glossodia Construction has officially begun at the Jacaranda housing estate in Glossodia, with early works now underway as part of the delivery of a new masterplanned community for the Hawkesbury region. Residents may notice increased activity on and around the site during January
Windsor Medicare Urgent Care Clinic Coming Soon
A provider has been selected to operate the new Windsor Medicare Urgent Care Clinic, with the service expected to open in the coming months. Following a competitive tender process led by the Nepean Blue Mountains Primary Health Network, MyHealth Kable Street has been confirmed as the successful operator. The clinic
Truck Stop Closure Sparks Safety Debate as Authorities Clarify Council is responsible
Concerns about road safety along Bells Line of Road continue following the quiet closure of a former informal truck rest area, with Transport for NSW and Hawkesbury City Council clarifying their roles in the decision. Transport for NSW confirmed the land off Bells Line of Road is owned and maintained
Older Hawkesbury Residents Most at Risk as Australians Reconsider Drinking Habits
By Hawkesbury Gazette Based on reporting by the ABC and national data Australians are increasingly rethinking their relationship with alcohol, yet new national data reveals that older adults—especially those in their 50s and 60s—remain some of the most likely to drink beyond recommended health limits. According to the
Hawkesbury Residents Urged to Watch for Ticket Scams
Hawkesbury residents heading to New Year’s Eve celebrations, concerts and major sporting events are being warned to stay alert after new research revealed Australians lose an average of $432 each time they fall victim to ticket scams. New national data released by PayPal Australia shows one in five Australians
$60,000 Fine Over Illegal Dumping Sparks Warning for Hawkesbury Landowners
A Sydney skip bin hire and waste removal company has been fined $60,000 for illegally dumping asbestos-containing waste on private property, prompting renewed warnings from the NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) about the risks of illegal dumping in semi-rural areas such as the Hawkesbury. The EPA investigation found Peakhurst-based
Parvo Alert for Hawkesbury Pet Owners
RSPCA NSW is urging Hawkesbury dog owners to remain vigilant after confirmed cases of parvovirus were reported in Richmond this week. Parvovirus (parvo) is a highly contagious and often fatal viral disease that affects unvaccinated dogs and puppies of any age. Without urgent veterinary treatment, survival rates are extremely low,
All we want for Christmas is a new Council?
Polling, submissions and a decade of escalating bureaucracy raise serious questions about financial stewardship
Gas connection fees signals shift toward electrification
Households building new homes across the Hawkesbury and wider NSW will soon face upfront gas connection fees of more than $2,000, following a major rule change aimed at reducing long-term energy costs. The decision, handed down by the Australian Energy Market Commission, will apply from October next year across
Community warned to avoid contact with bats as deadly virus risk rises
Residents across the Hawkesbury region are being urged to steer clear of bats this summer, with health authorities warning that injured or distressed bats can carry a potentially fatal virus. Australian Bat Lyssavirus (ABLV), a close relative of rabies, has been detected in both fruit bats (flying foxes) and insect-eating
Hawkesbury Council Makes History by Voting for RAP
This week Hawkesbury Council passed a Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) with a vote of 10 councillors for and 2 against. RAP is a formal commitment by an organisation (company, school, council, government agency, non-profit, etc.) to take practical actions that support reconciliation, improve relationships, and foster respect and opportunities for
Local GPs Play Crucial Role in Supporting Victim-Survivors During 16 Days of Activism
25 November International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women to 10 December
Heads-Up for Hawkesbury Parents Buying E-Bikes This Christmas
As the holidays draw near, e-bikes are expected to top many Christmas wish-lists but parents around the Hawkesbury are being urged to be careful and fully understand what they’re buying before wrapping that shiny new ride under the tree. Across Australia, authorities have seen a surge in accidents involving
Hawkesbury Author Jackie Randall Launches New Historical Adventure, Elliot
By Jye Bryant Hawkesbury local Jackie Randall has released her newest work, Elliot, a historical adventure novel for older children and young adults that has already captured the attention of local schools and libraries. The Blaxlands Ridge author, whose previous book, Only Two, was longlisted for the prestigious ARA Historical
Tumbling Triumphs for Hawkesbury Athletes
Competing at the 38th FIG Trampoline Gymnastics World Championships in Pamplona, Spain, Ethan McGuinness secured gold in the Men’s tumbling Final, reaffirming his position as one of Australia’s most accomplished athletes in the discipline.
Light the Way for Koala Safety
After years of relentless advocacy, passion, and persistence, Hawkesbury communities are celebrating the third consecutive year of Variable Message Board warning signs alerting motorists to koalas during their critical mating and movement season.
Truck Stop Quietly Closed causing Safety Concerns
Truck Stop Before Bellbird Hill Quietly Closed for Months as Accidents Continue on the Great Western Highway Motorists are raising concerns over the continued closure of a key truck stop on the Bell’s Line of Road (BLOR), just west of Bellbird Hill, at a time when another serious truck
EPA Launches Investigation into North St Marys Chemical Fire
The NSW Environment Protection Authority has launched a formal investigation into a major chemical fire that broke out at Coopers Environmental Waste Recycling Pty Ltd in North St Marys late on Saturday night. The blaze, which ignited around 11:30pm on 29 November, triggered several explosions and prompted a significant
Historic Federal Childcare Pay Rise but Hawkesbury still faces a Childcare Crisis
The nationwide pay rise for early-childhood educators is welcome news but for many families in the Hawkesbury, it arrives against the backdrop of a deepening childcare shortage and controversial Council rent hikes that threaten existing services. What’s new nationally: a pay increase for ECEC workers A government-backed wage boost
Hawkesbury Community Still in the Dark over Compensation Claims for 2019 fires
RFS lack of clarity leaves fire-affected Hawkesbury communities without answers as compensation deadline nears
Federal Inquiry Launched into Local Council Funding as Residents Face Rising Rates
A new federal inquiry will examine whether local councils across Australia are being adequately funded to meet the growing list of responsibilities expected of them, a move welcomed by Macquarie MP Susan Templeman, who says communities like the Hawkesbury stand to benefit from greater transparency and accountability. The House of
The Spring Propagation Hack
By the Hawkesbury Homesteader Every spring, I find myself reaching for my favorite propagation trick. A simple, clever hack that turns seed-starting into pure magic. Forget fancy equipment or expensive trays. I use opaque, inexpensive storage boxes. The kind you’d find at any discount store. They’re a bit
Night Works to Bring Temporary Closures and Reduced Speeds in Pitt Town
Road users in Pitt Town are being advised to expect temporary traffic changes throughout December as work continues on the Pitt Town Bypass Project. Nightworks will take place across Bathurst Street, Pitt Town Road, Cattai Road and Glebe Road on the following dates, weather permitting: * Monday 1, Tuesday 2 and
Think Fire, Know Fire
As Hawkesbury Council Disaster & Emergency Committee prepares to meet and review bushfire readiness this is essential reading.
Council Pushes Ahead with Rate Rise Despite 70% Opposition
Community Asks Are We Throwing Good Money After Bad?
New South Windsor Ambulance Station a Step Closer
The NSW Government has released the first artist’s impressions of three new modern ambulance stations at South Windsor offering a glimpse of the upgraded emergency care facilities set to strengthen mobile medical response across the state.
Council backs four year rate hike over community objections
Hawkesbury Council Approves “Option 3”: Rates to Rise 39.4% Over Four Years
Poll shows strong opposition to Council rate rise
The proposed Special Rate Variation (SVR) by Hawkesbury City Council is shaping up to be one of the most contentious local issues in years, with thousands of residents voicing opposition ahead of the final decision scheduled for Tuesday, November 18. Community sentiment appears to be running strongly against the rate
Has Hawkesbury Been Taken for a Ride?
Questions Mount Over BLOR Closure, Charity Bike Race and Council’s ability to advocate for its businesses and residents.
🐾 Tick Season Has Arrived in the Hawkesbury
Trusted North Richmond Vet warns ticks season has arrived
Council’s Sewage Deal Flushes Away $152 Million in Value
Hawkesbury City Council’s controversial sell off the Windsor sewage system and the Sewage Loan Refinancing has come under scrutiny after figures from the NSW Auditor-General revealed that the transfer of this local infrastructure to Sydney Water represents a $152.8 million asset write-down for Hawkesbury Council. The handover covers
Driven to Succeed: Local F4 Driver Paige Raddatz
Paige Raddatz is racing toward her F1 dreams after a strong debut in India, showing determination and skill on the international stage.
Letters to the Editor
We’re always happy to accept letters to the Editor. It’s your opportunity to speak about the good, the bad, and the ugly, and everything in between.
Unelected Council Chiefs Earning More Than MPs
NSW Moves to Rein In Council General Manager executive pay
Redbank North Richmond Offers Hope Amid Housing Shortage
With demand for homes across Western Sydney at record highs, Redbank’s latest release is seen as a welcome development for families seeking the space provided by a semi-rural environment and lifestyle without compromising on convenience.
