Hawkesbury Post March 2024

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The Carnival is Coming to Town

“We are showies. We are a carnival, and we are here to provide entertainment,” declares Elwin Bell, marking the beginning of a journey that spans generations and defines a unique way of life for the Bell family.

For more than 100 years, the Bells have criss-crossed Australia, bringing joy to towns big and small. Elwin’s roots in the carnival business run deep, with his grandfather managing a boxing stadium and his mother’s side tracing back to trapeze artists in the Perry Circus a remarkable 160 years ago. “It’s a way of life,” Elwin says with a matter-of-fact tone. “You earn no money, endure rain, break down, face accidents. But we’re born and bred to it; it’s all we know. We do it to make people happy and put a smile on their faces.”

Traversing the vast expanse of Australia almost every week of the year is no small feat. With 40 rides and sideshows, managing 30 trucks, and dealing with

Next month, Elwin and his show family will once again embark on their annual expedition to the Hawkesbury for the annual show. “Every trip is an adventure, with plenty of ups and downs. If one truck breaks down in the convoy, they all stop, emphasising the unity among the Showies.”

150 vehicle registrations annually, Elwin’s wife, Selina, handles the logistical side of the operation. From Southern Victoria to Darwin, Elwin claims to have visited almost every town in Australia, forming connections in each.

Next month, Elwin and his show family will once again embark on their annual expedition to the Hawkesbury for the annual show. “Every trip is an

adventure, with plenty of ups and downs. If one truck breaks down in the convoy, they all stop, emphasising the unity among the ‘Showies.’”

“We call ourselves ‘Showies’; we are a Carnival, and I don’t mind being called a Carnie, as they do in the US,” Elwin says. The 54-year-old father of five and grandfather of six once contemplated naming one of his kids “Carnie.” “But

you never know,” he chuckles, leaving that door open.

Managing about 20 permanent and varying casual staff, Elwin acknowledges the difficulty in attracting casuals due to the demanding nature of the work, but he says he gives everyone a go and has helped people off the street and drugs. “This is now the only life they know,” he says.

Born in Biloela, Queensland, Elwin’s dad had to stay on the road when his mother went into labour three months early. “I was lucky to survive.” “Dad had to leave me and Mum at the hospital and keep on going.” “I’ve lived in caravans all my life,” he says. For a few months each year, he would stay with his aunt in Forbes and attend primary school. Boarding school in Forbes proved a short-run affair, with Elwin being expelled and happily heading back to the

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Aerosol Obsessions transforms Heritage water in Windsor

Mankini Gate broke the Internet

Local Heros Forgo Pay To Get Kids and Sick Across the River

Wire-drawn ferry operators have volunteered their services without pay, ensuring that children can attend school and emergency services can function smoothly. Amid a contentious dispute over pay and conditions with ferry contractor Birdon Group and the NSW government, ferry operators have engaged in rolling strikes, with potential escalation looming if a satisfactory pay offer remains elusive.

During the recent 24-hour strike, no operator received any compensation but they made sure vital services continued. "For the entire duration of that 24 hours, our members volunteered to crew every ferry without pay, ensuring children could get to school and emergency services could cross,” Maritime Union of Australia branch organiser, Shane Reside said.

"On Monday afternoon, we transported a man from Wisemans Ferry for scheduled heart surgery," he said.

Ferry workers on the Sackville Ferry, Wisemans Ferry, Webbs Creek Ferry, Berowra Waters Ferry and Mortlake Ferry are entangled in a protracted pay and conditions dispute with Birdon and TfNSW. Despite months of negotiations, no offer has been presented. Birdon has now sought assisted bargaining from the Fair Work Commission, a move met with skepticism by Reside. For thousands of residents the dispute means commutes of up to five hours’ extra travel time on remote roads.

"I don't understand why the company is bothering with assisted bargaining. The commissioner has no powers to compel either party to act. The issue is that the company and Transport for NSW are still unwilling to come to the table with a serious offer."

Reside criticised the company's tactics, calling it a "cynical attempt at delaying or obfuscating their responsibility to

actually put an offer on the table." He added, "It feels like they are trying to incite the union into further strikes. If that's the game they want to play, then we can deliver that," warning of longer and more intense strikes.

Federal Member for Macquarie, Susan Templeman, has called on Birdon Vehicular Ferries to engage in negotiations with the Maritime Union of Australia (MUA) and TfNSW. “There are two real issues in play here - workers operating these vital ferry services deserve to be fairly paid, and no one wants to see the community inconvenienced further because of Birdon’s unwillingness to negotiate,” Ms Templeman said. “I urge Birdon to do the right thing and engage in meaningful negotiations with the MUA and Transport for NSW,” she said.

State Member for Hawkesbury, Robyn Preston, has called on the NSW government to intervene and says the

community was at their “wits end” with local households and businesses harmed by the strikes. “It isn’t good enough that residents are being held to ransom,” she said.

Beyond seeking improved working conditions, ferry workers are advocating for Equal Pay for Equal Work, asserting that they are among the lowest-paid ferry workers in Australia. The union is pushing for a pay increase to $46 per hour, aligning with industry rates, up from the current $31 per hour.

Reside emphasised that after more than six months of negotiations, the lack of a pay offer leaves workers with no alternative. The industrial action aligns with the temporary suspension of the Lower Portland Ferry on January 29 for a minimum of three months as it undergoes maintenance to maintain its commercial license for public service operation.

Rising Costs and Community Anger Over Roads

There was much self congratulation in the Hawkesbury City Council chamber on February 13 when a motion was passed to seal Packer Road at Lower Portland Councillors voted unanimously (only Cr Patrick Conolly was missing from the meeting) with some previously opposed to the project first scoped in 2017, changing their minds, with road safety becoming an increasing priority with several fatal crashes in the Hawkesbury recently.

Yet with this one important project now very publicly signed off, there is rising community anger about the state of roads in the local government area - and the Packer Road experience can help us understand why. When the project was first scoped and costed, the price was $2.5 million, now some years later that is roughly double, people familiar with the project say. That’s $2.5 million that can’t be spent on other equally deserving projects.

The paving of roads has now been put on hold, people familiar with council priorities said, and other roads projects have taken priority.

Together with rising costs wrought by inflation, there

is the even bigger problem with funding. Put simply, council funding in New South Wales is going backwards as costs rise and populations increase.

The growing imbalance between the cost of roads and funding for Council - as well as extra bits and pieces from the state and federal governments makes it likely residents can expect a bigger than expected rate rise in coming years. This is not something that candidates in the September Council elections will want to talk about.

In addition to theoften haphazard, slap-dash road repairs that have been well documented on social media, and it’s understandable the community in the Hawkesbury is seething with anger about the state of their roads.

Still, it’s not a localised situation.

“There is a problem with funding and often the state of roads in most council areas in the state,” Independent Cr. Nathan Zamprogno told the Hawkesbury Post. “Councils take in only 3.5% of all taxation revenue in

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EDITORIAL

Fresh Thinking Needed as Hawkesbury Seeks Long Term Solutions for its Roads

The roads in the Hawkesbury region have become a source of mounting frustration for residents. The concern, as expressed by one local resident, revolves around what seems to be a persistent trend of subpar repairs and an apparent lack of foresight in road construction. This reflects a systemic issue in the approach to road maintenance by Council.

Residents lament the prevailing culture of addressing road issues with an apparent bare minimum effort which appears to be aimed at temporarily quelling complaints rather than implementing effective, lasting solutions. The recurring cycle of quick fixes that swiftly deteriorate not only frustrates the community but also raises questions about the judicious use of ratepayers and taxpayers money.

resource management approach, to ensure that allocated funds result in tangible and sustainable improvements. Perhaps some of this determined avoidance of transparency is related to the fact that roads are a political hot button, and failure to fulfil any promises will be punished at the ballot box and council elections are only seven months.

News of increased road funding from various levels of government is always welcome, yet questions linger about the strategic utilisation of these funds. The community demands assurance that such investments will lead to long-term solutions, rather than mere stopgap measures. There is a collective call for a more comprehensive strategy that includes research into resilient road materials, enhanced project management, and a transparent system that enables residents to monitor the impact of their contributions.

Yes there is an overriding context of insufficient funding for councils generally, but there is no doubt an absence of innovation in road construction practices and materials. As climate change becomes an increasingly pressing concern, questions are rightly being raised about whether there is adequate research into developing roads capable of withstanding extreme temperatures and or, recurring natural disasters such as flooding as our front page story notes.

The lack of transparency regarding road expenditure only exacerbates the situation. The absence of specific data linking funds to particular roads hampers residents' ability to assess the efficacy of the council's efforts. This extends to any transparency from Council beyond pointing to its roads “hub”, where the answers cannot be found.

There is a need for a more structured and transparent system across all levels of government, perhaps a centralised

The state of roads in the Hawkesbury requires departure from the prevailing reactive approach toward a more proactive, innovative strategy. Residents deserve infrastructure that is not only promptly repaired but also resilient and capable of meeting the challenges of the future.

It is incumbent upon governments to invest wisely, embrace modern technologies, and provide the community with roads that stand as enduring solutions rather than short-term fixes. This also requires a fresh communications approach with residents and other stakeholders as well. There needs to be open and honest discussions of problems and possible solutions - rather than hiding behind bulked up big numbers and photo opportunities.

Editor, Samantha Magnusson sam@hawkesburypost.com.au

Aerosol Obsessions Completes Striking Water Tank Mural

After years in the making, the transformative artwork by Aerosol Obsessions on the Heritage Water Tank in Windsor is now complete. This collaboration with the Rotary Club has culminated in a skillfully crafted mural that seamlessly integrates into the town's mural and street art scene, reflecting the essence of the Hawkesbury region. Positioned prominently at the corner of Johnson Street & The Terrace, this artwork adds a distinct visual element to Windsor, enhancing its streetscape and inviting residents and visitors alike to appreciate the town's character through this long-awaited and unique piece of art.

Kurrajong Residents Suffer as Runoff from Development Pollutes Water and Wildlife

Rural dams and adjacent watercourses are being polluted by run-off from the controversial Tallowood development at Kurrajong, affecting native wildlife and livestock, as well as natural springs, which have been “suffocated by the sediment” originating from the development, residents say.

The development, which is for 19 new residences, is only at its initial excavation stage and residents said the problem with runoff likely continue for as long as the project is underway, a period estimated at between two and three years.

“At the moment the problem is mud polluting dams down the valley but once building starts, there will be all sorts of other materials and chemicals,” a resident, who requested not to be named, said.

“The development has been operating without any erosion controls. Erosion control is stipulated as a condition of development applications. Erosion control measures are required to be installed to prevent sediment from entering the adjacent waterways,” said another local resident, who declined to be named because they feared retribution from manager of the development Matthew Bennett.

“The only erosion control measure employed on an environmentally sensitive site is a single sediment fence at the bottom of a significant slope. The sediment fence that has been shown

to be installed in contravention of Council’s own guidelines - it was held down by rocks instead of being properly trenched in a to a minimum of 200mm,” they continued.

In response to questions from the Hawkesbury Post, a Council spokesperson said: “Council received a report on 16 January 2024 regarding sediment control at the site which was passed onto the private certifier as the site is managed by a private certifier. Following inspections on 16 and 17 January by the certifier, rectification measures were identified, and a number of directions were made to better control sediment run-off.”

Council has a legislated responsibility to investigate reports of prospective pollution under the Protection of the Environment Operations Act 1997, however with private certification, private certifiers are the first port of call regarding suspected regulatory breaches.

There is also a pile of excavated material directly adjacent to a residential property with a swimming pool that exceeds the Hawkesbury City Council’s own height guidelines, according to photos provided to the Hawkesbury Post.

The development - part two of the existing Tallowood project - is being undertaken by Bennett, who is the domestic partner of Mayor Sarah McMahon. Existing residents were unaware the project would proceed when purchasing properties in Phase 1 of Tallowod. The new development has already been the subject of a hearing in the Land and Environment Court finding in favour of Bennett and his investors.

Bennett has employed Urban City Consulting, a firm run by former Council employee Troy Myers as his building certifier, responsible for making sure the development is undertaken in line with the conditions of its development application as well as Council rules and regulations.

Despite multiple requests for comments for this story, Bennett has remained silent.

However, correspondence with Urban City Consulting - seen by the HP - indicated that Myers has stated that everything in the development is being operated within the conditions of the DA. As with much in construction in NSW, there is a high degree of self-certification.

Still, residents said that if the status quo is maintained, sediment run-off will continue. “This will result in continued contamination into rural dams and the adjacent watercourse which already has and will continue to impact native wildlife and domesticated livestock which rely on these water sources,” the resident said.

Bennett and Cr. McMahon have both maintained they are not property developers. In November 2021 – prior to the local council elections – McMahon signed a Statutory Declaration stating that she is not a close associate of a property developer. The Office of Government issued a letter to Bennett in 2022 saying he did not meet the criteria of property developer. However, since then the change of government has brought with it a closer scrutiny and ongoing focus on councils. Council elections will be held in September this year.

The Carnival is Coming to Town

carnival, which he has never left.

Darwin Show holds a special place in Elwin’s heart, but the rising costs of fuel and travel threaten the continuation of the journey north unless the government intervenes. With fuel prices inching towards three dollars a litre, breaking even becomes challenging. Crookwell, he says, is probably the prettiest showground, and Mildura also has a certain charm. Next month, they

head to the Hawkesbury. “Hawkesbury Show is pound for pound one of the best run shows in Australia,” he said. The flat ground works well, and the committee run “a good ship”. “The future of these shows is only as good as the committees that run them,” Elwin remarks, acknowledging the scarcity of the next generation stepping into these roles. “Shows should be the most important event in any community in Australia. They bring in revenue; they fill the pubs and the motels, and people buy fuel. They make

it all go around like a Merry-Go-Round.”

It’s a special life, and unless you are born into it or marry into it, you can’t really break into it anymore, Elwin says. But despite the hardship and unforeseen events like floods, bushfires, and Covid, it’s not a life he’d swap for anything.

“You may meet your girlfriend, your future wife; you might get in a fight at the bar,” Elwin says. “There are plenty of arguments and disagreements between the tight-knit show families, he says, but they keep things organised through a

Rising Costs and Community Anger

Australia, and yet local governments are responsible for 24% of all the service provision and asset maintenance done in the nation, as well as plan how our communities can grow and thrive.

“In 1996, local governments received grant funding equivalent to 1% of all federal taxation revenue, yet in the 28 years since, it’s slipped to less than half that.”

The NSW Government is currently starting a review into the NSW Council Financial model which will look at the financial sustainability of Councils. This is done every few years.

“The plight of ‘peri-urban’ Councils like ours that sit at the fringes of major cities is even worse. We cop all the urban growth and congestion, plus lack of transport and long commutes, and yet frequently fall between two stools when it comes to funding because we’re not-quite-urban and not-quite-rural,” Zamprogno told Federal Local Government Minister Kirsty McBain on a recent visit to the region.

Cr Mary Lyons-Buckett agrees that councils across the state have backlogs in repairing and maintaining infrastructure, particularly roads.

“This has been the case for years. The cycle of repair is continuous and it’s easy to understand how frustrating it is for ratepayers to experience potholes and

disrepair on our roads,” Cr Lyons-Buckett said.

She added that roads can be vulnerable to extreme temperatures, heavy rain events and flooding, noting that these are questions “I believe we should be asking about how we are addressing this for the future. How is it going to be sustainable for governments of all levels to keep paying for the increase in climate-related pressures on our financial sustainability.

“I don’t believe enough has been done in the sector around this. Roads can melt at temperatures in the late 40s and 50 degrees. We know it was 50 degrees last week in Western Australia. We also know the frequency of intense rainfall will continue to increase,having already intensified by 40% in the last two decades. These conditions can impact many aspects of our daily lives, but particularly roads. Being stuck in that ongoing cycle without proactively trying to break it is costing us more and more all the time,” she said.

The one thing that the council can fix is the way roads are repaired. Everyone in the LGA has their own story about seeing a road repairer shovel some asphalt into a pothole and stamp their foot on it in a half-hearted way. And in the next heavy rain, the hole reopens. There are multiple stories of projects that have waited many years and still remain in a state of disrepair

HCC General Manager Elizabeth Richardson, freshly

“priority system” and have a “mud map over our space.” “If you miss a show, you lose your priority for a year,” he says.

On February 22, an SBS documentary, “The Carnival,” featuring Elwin and his family, will be released. Eight years in the making, Elwin seems pretty chuffed by the film and says the screenings have been very positive. In Merimbula, he says it was a full house: “They loved it. All the old Sheilas loved it.” “The Showmen and women of Australia work extremely hard to keep people happy.”

armed with a new three year salary contract worth $1 million, refused to answer any questions about who actually repairs the roads. She won’t say how much is done in house, how much is outsourced, and who are the contractors. The Council’s chief executive won’t tell us what the guidelines for repairing roads (even for potholes) actually are. And she won’t say how HCC prioritises repairs - just how do you get your road on the list - or move it up?

Indeed, HCC Infrastructure Manager Will Barton, who initially presided over the disastrous riverbank and botched repair at Cornwallis Road is understood to have told councillors that patchwork jobs are part of the programs he tries to spin out the $65 million allocated for roads in this financial year’s council plan. Overall, according to the HCC website there are 600 sections of road that need repairing and this will cost $170 million. That’s HCC’s entire annual budget. Certainly, there is ad hoc funding from state and federal governments, but it is unreliable.

Surely roads constructed to be stronger and more resilient will save huge amounts of funding down the track in repairs,Cr Lyons Buckett said. “Continuing on doing the same thing over and over seems futile in addressing an issue which is one of the major concerns for ratepayers, and one of the major challenges for Councils.”

Natural Disaster Costs to Double

The cost of damage to homes and businesses from natural disasters in the Hawkesbury will almost double to $149 million by 2060 unless measures outlined in a new plan are actioned.

The warning from the NSW Reconstruction Authority comes as it released it’s first State Disaster Mitigation Plan which forecasts that the annual $3.1 billion cost of natural disasters in NSW will reach $9.1 billion by 2060.

In 2023, the Hawkesbury already faced an average annual loss of $94 million, with floods accounting for $83 million. The forecast for 2060 anticipates a significant increase to $149 million, with $131 million attributed to

losses in the built environment caused by flooding.

The NSW Reconstruction Authority, established in the aftermath of the 2022 Lismore floods, emphasised the need to address worsening bushfires, heatwaves, floods, storms, and coastal erosion. The plan outlines key actions, including a review of building codes to enhance resilience, a reassessment of insurance levy arrangements, and the development of early warning systems to ensure preparedness.

Historically, the majority of disaster funding, approximately 97%, has been allocated to response and recovery efforts, with only a mere 3% dedicated to risk reduction.

The plan's analysis identifies storms and floods as posing the highest risk to homes, businesses, and infrastructure, while heatwaves and bushfires historically present the greatest risk to human life. The devastating 2022 flood events alone affected 98 out of 128 local government areas, causing damage to 15,000 homes and over $5.1 billion in insured damages.

Emergency Services Minister Jihad Dib stressed the urgency of planning for climate threats in the wake of successive natural disasters, such as the Black Summer fires and the 2022 floods. "There is no easy or simple solution to these challenges. The focus of the plan is to provide a framework and

Fatal Crash Claims Life in Wisemans Ferry

A 29-year old man has died two weeks after a four vehicle collision in Wisemans Ferry.

Emergency services responded to reports of a crash involving three trucks and a ute on Peats Ridge Road at approximately 10:40am on Tuesday 6 February 2024. NSW Ambulance paramedics attended the scene and provided immediate medical attention to the victims.

The 29-year-old man, critically injured in the acci-

dent, was transported to John Hunter Hospital. Unfortunately, his condition deteriorated and he succumbed to his injuries around 8:25 pm on Saturday 10 February 2024.

Additionally, a 35-year-old man was taken to Royal North Shore Hospital in a serious but stable condition, while a 44-year-old man was transported to Gosford Hospital under similar circumstances. A 27-year-old

clear actions for reducing risk where we can, and adapting where we can't, through improved warning systems and a focus on resilient infrastructure,” Dib said.

The plan is poised to guide decisions on housing and infrastructure development, as well as investment in risk-reduction activities. By 2060, the NSW Reconstruction Authority predicts that coastal inundation and erosion will become the primary drivers of natural disaster damage, with the Northern Beaches and Central Coast local government areas expected to bear the greatest annual losses of $867 million and $426 million, respectively, under a worst-case-scenario model.

man, unharmed, was subjected to mandatory testing at the hospital.

Following the incident, officers from the Brisbane Water Police District established a crime scene. Specialised officers from the Crash Investigation Unit examined the site to gather forensic evidence.

A report has been prepared for the Coroner and investigations into the crash continue.

Residents Fight To Save 200 Year Old Tree

A community campaign to save a cherished tree from being felled has won the day with Sydney Water confirming the local landmark will be preserved.

The native tree near North Richmond Community Centre at 33 William Street had been earmarked for removal as part of the sewer systems upgrade between North Richmond and Richmond.

But an outcry from the local community prompted Sydney Water to initiated an urgent review. A spokesperson for Sydney Water told the Hawkesbury Post they had listened to community concerns

and the tree would remain. "Sydney Water will not remove the tree, and an alternative solution is currently being investigated."

The essential upgrade of wastewater infrastructure from North Richmond to Richmond aims to accommodate a projected 70% population increase over the next 30 years. While the 200-year-old tree has been spared, the fate of other trees remains uncertain.

Local residents said the trees lining the street provided essential shade to nearby houses and the community

centre car park. These trees also serve as habitats for lorikeets, corellas, and other birds during the evening hours.

Sydney Water assures continued efforts to investigate ways to minimise the project's impact on the local environment. Kerrie Mullaney, a concerned resident who spearheaded the campaign to save the tree, expressed relief at the decision. "It's a native and at least 200 years old. Anywhere else, a significant tree like this would have a preservation order," she said.

Mullaney pointed to the State Government's report on urban heat islands, indicating that the relevant area of North Richmond could be 6-9 degrees warmer than surrounding areas. She stressed the importance of preserving large trees to mitigate further detrimental effects on the local climate.

Mullaney said that residents with concerns about other trees facing removal can contact RichmondSWU@sydneywater.com.au and Robyn Preston MP at hawkesbury@parliament.nsw.gov.au.

SUSAN TEMPLEMAN MP

Federal Member for Macquarie

Opinion

Susan Templeman

When I speak with Hawkesbury residents about one thing they’d most like to improve, it’s probably no surprise a common response is: the roads.

It’s not sexy, but it is something that brings pain – and cost – to your life on a daily basis. What the last few years have shown us is that the Hawkesbury’s roads were simply not designed to cope with the extreme weather events we’ve seen.

I’ve long been an advocate for investment in essential infrastructure, and under the Albanese Government, significant funds are flowing. For example, there’s nearly $1 million for upgrades to Bligh Park and South Windsor parks.

The federal government is currently investing more than $434 million in Hawkesbury roads, sporting fields and parks, and that’s not including Richmond Bridge or any of the special disaster funding that has come to Hawkesbury Council.

Minister for Regional Development, Local Government and Territories, Kristy McBain, and I recently visited Glossodia to meet with Deputy Mayor and WSROC President, Clr Barry Calvert, to discuss plans and progress of the $3 million federal investment for Woodbury Reserve.

Before entering federal politics, Kristy McBain was Mayor of Bega Valley Shire Council, an area with similar experience

of natural disasters as ours, so she understands how important it is that tiers of government work together. She was keen to hear from a range of councillors, and Clr Mary Lyons-Buckett, Clr Danielle Wheeler and Clr Nathan Zamprogno joined us.

But back to roads, because most of our Hawkesbury federal funding is for roads!

There’s more than $7 million for a number of smaller road projects across the Hawkesbury, like $265,000 to renew

a section of Valder Avenue, Hobartville.

A 40 percent increase in funding for the Black Spot Program annually means that almost $6 million dollars can be allocated to 13 traffic black spots in the Hawkesbury, including the million dollar safety improvements for part of St Albans Road, Lower Macdonald.

By doubling the national Roads to Recovery funding from $500 million to $1 billion per year, we’ve provided Hawkesbury Council with $5.4 million

to upgrade roads, plus they have access to the $11.2 million roads package I announced during the election.

Big projects like Richmond Bridge duplication or $100 million safety upgrades for Bells Line of Road won’t happen overnight. But where you see construction and maintenance work happening across roads in the Hawkesbury, there’s a good chance it has funding from the Albanese Labor Government helping to make it happen.

ROBYN PRESTON MP

State Member for Hawkesbury

Opinion

Robyn Preston

It’s not until something is taken away from us, that we realise just how important it is.

That’s been the case with the ferry services in Hawkesbury which locals have been denied, due to maintenance, particularly at Lower Portland and more recently, the industrial action that has affected access to Webbs Creek, Wisemans Ferry and Sackville ferries.

Many of us rely on this service to get children to school, to access medical appointments and medicines, to travel to and from work, to get food supplies and everyday living connections. Accommodation, hospitality and tourism operators count on this service too.

I have received many calls and emails from anxious residents and businesses.

To add to the frustration, notice of the service stoppages has been very short and for those that are not tech savvy,

the first they learn of a cancelled ferry service is when they arrive at the wharf and look at a hand-written notice on a white board.

Residents and businesses impacted by the ferry disruptions are telling me that their lives have been turned upside down, with extra commute times of up to five hours a day and people’s mental health and well-being has been seriously strained.

The Maritime Union of Australia (MUA) members are seeking a fifty per cent pay increase and other considerations. The private operator, Birdon has a fixed price contract with the NSW Government. If the contractor hasn’t factored in these types of pay variation requests by the MUA, problems can arise.

Both sides need to come together to sort this out and as I write, Birdon has taken this issue to Fair Work and the matter will be heard on 1 st March 2024.

Shadow Transport Minister, Natalie Ward MLC, during Budget Estimates in Parliament, recently questioned on your behalf, the Minister for Transport, Jo Haylen to find out why she had not engaged with the parties to try and resolve this Stalemate.

Please know that I will continue to advocate on your behalf to get the three ferry services back to a regular timetable. Both sides need to come to a position they can agree on and I hope that will be sooner than later.

Council News

Council Rejects State Government’s Push for 8-Story Flats in Local Suburbs

Proposed planning reforms that will bring in major changes to land use and permit eight story apartments in suburbs, including Richmond and Windsor, have been rejected by the Hawkesbury City Council (HCC).

The reforms by the NSW government will see terraces, townhouses, duplexes, eight-story apartments and smaller one to two storey apartments permitted in suburbs where they are currently not, as part of plans to fast track housing development in the state.

In its meeting on February 13, 2024, the HCC voted unanimously to oppose these changes, citing concerns over flood risk, local heritage, and insufficient infrastructure.

One of the most contentious aspects of the proposed policy is its ability to override Council's Local Environmental Plan (LEP) and Development Control Plan (DCP) controls. This has been met with strong opposition from HCC which argues that the government's plans haven't taken account of flood risk, or the semi-rural outlook which is integral to the charm and desirability of the Hawkesbury region.

At Mulgrave station (identified on the map) for example, developers would be permitted to build apartments up to 21 metres high within 400 metres of the station and 16 metres high within 800 metres of the station. The picture shows Mulgrave station during the 2022 floods.

In a statement, Hawkesbury City Mayor Sarah McMahon said the state government had failed to address critical factors such as flood risk, evacuation procedures, and fire risks in the region, raising serious questions about the safety of residents.

“We saw particularly during the floods in recent years that large numbers of residents became cut off from Greater Sydney, and these were only relatively small floods compared to what can happen,” Cr. McMahon said.

“It is already well acknowledged the difficulty and risks we would face if we had to evacuate 60,000 residents using the existing evacuation routes that have been sorely neglected by successive state and federal Governments,” she said.

Councillor Nathan Zamprogno said that a one size fits all policy is inadequate for the Hawkesbury.

“This is a spectacularly rotten policy that fails utterly to understand the character of the Hawkesbury. Residents have told us for decades that our semi-rural outlook is a key factor in our charm and desirability as a place to live and work,” Councillor Nathan Zamprogno wrote in his newsletter to residents.

“The State government has failed to provide enough detail for us to respond to their demand for a detailed response. For example, the interaction of the proposed policy with known constraints in our area caused by flood, flood evacuation and fire risk has not been explained at all,” he said.

Under the proposed reforms there would be three zones: "Town Cen tres" covering most larger suburbs, "Commercial Centres" in Windsor and Richmond, and areas around all train stations within the Local Government Area (LGA). Council would lose the au thority to refuse various developments, including new flat developments of up to 8 storeys high (21m) within 400m of these zones and 16 metres (5 storeys) within 800 metres. Dual Occupancies are proposed to be permitted in all Low-Density Residential zones across NSW.

Deputy Mayor, Labor’s Barry Calvert acknowledged the housing undersup ply issue in NSW but said increasing population density in the Hawkesbury was not the solution. Calvert expressed concerns about the potential impact on the area's unique character, safety risks, and the strain on transportation infrastructure.

“Adding more people to that mix is a disaster waiting to happen. Instead of talking about increasing our population, the government should be listening to this Council when we tell them that so much more needs to be done to provide better flood resilience and evacuation routes for the Hawkesbury,” Cr. Calvert said.

Mousse & Co

“Council is sympathetic to the issue of housing undersupply in NSW, however more homes and higher densities in the Hawkesbury is not the answer,” he said.

Council will now formally communicate its reasons for rejecting the plan to the NSW government. It has asked for

more comprehensive discussions on the challenges and aspirations for development in the Hawkesbury region.

The proposed reforms appear at odds with flood risk in the Hawkesbury.

Council News

Council Split on GM’s New Contract, Hands her 5% Pay Rise

earlier, with many councillors expressing misgivings over her performance, including some who eventually voted in favor of retaining her.

Lining up behind the GM was the Liberal-Labor bloc that controls Council with Councillors McMahon, Connolly, Veigel and Reardon (Lib) as well as Crs Calvert and Kotlash (Lab) as well as Cr Les Sheather who sides with the bloc. Crs. Lyons-Buckett, Wheeler, Zamprogno and Dogramaci voted against retaining Richardson.

The contract renewal on 1 June, comes only a few months after she was handed a pay rise of 5% that will see her salary jump to $372,868 a year, backdated to June 2023.

The pay increase was approved unanimously by all councillors despite a cost of living crisis and ahead of an expected re-signing of Richardson’s contract this year. She was employed in April 2021 following the controversial sacking of previous General Manager, Peter Conroy, in November 2020 with just three days notice.

While the Richardson-led council met some performance measures according to the annual report, it had several notable and expensive stumbles this year. This included the unprecedented $32.5 million loan for the mismanagement of Windsor sewer Rising Main C repair, which resulted in a 14% hike in sewerage rates in the LGA this financial year. Other issues mismanaged by council included the Lower Portland Ferry contract and four years on, the collapsed riverbanks at Cornwallis and Windsor have not yet been resolved.

Richardson’s employment agreement including any hurdles for pay increases is confidential, an HCC spokesperson said. Other council staff received a 4.5% increase, meaning that the GM received a larger rise in both percentage and total amount than any of her staff.

Richardson began her initial threeyear term on 1 June 2021. Her previous role was as the Chief Operating Officer, Director of Development and Recreation, at Inner West Council which she had held since 2019. HCC employs 367 people.

Richardson’s salary is in the midrange of NSW councils. A 2021 report found that the total average remunera-

tion received by a NSW council general manager in 2019-2020 was $328,287 per annum. Hawkesbury ranks 39 out of 128 councils in terms of populations and 70 in terms of physical area.

“General manager remuneration is highly influenced by population levels and the challenges of managing larger councils such as greater operational complexity, higher staffing levels and higher revenue/expenditure bases, “ the Office of Local Government report found.

There were four senior staff positions employed under contract by Council between 1 July 2022 and 30 June 2023. These positions were General Manager, Director Infrastructure Services, Director City Planning, and Director Corporate Services, according to the HCC Annual Report for 2020-2023.

“All senior staff follow the standard contract formats issued by the Office of Local Government (OLG) and are subject to performance agreements. Between 1 July 2022 and 30 June 2023, the General Manager’s Total Remuneration Package (TRP) was $355,113 and the TRP’s of the three Directors referred to above, totalled $769,915,” the report stated.

During the 2023 financial year, the council spent $24 million on infrastructure services with major contracts going to P&M Galea ($6m), Bernipave Pty Ltd ($5.5m), Azbuild Pty Ltd ($2.1m), Slaney Excavations ($1.6m), L J Follington Construction P/L ($1m) and Kerway Asphalting ($0.7m).

It also spent $3.2 million on external professional services including Civic Risk Mutual Insurance Contributions $2,165,460 Marsdens Law Group Legal Services $210,924, Pikes & Verekers Lawyers Legal Services $853,900, Complete Staff Solutions Employment Agency $236,133 Randstad Employment Agency $771,719.

HCC spent $20 million on wastewater management, $3.8 million on parks and recreation, $11.3 million on waste services, $6.1 million on project delivery, $6 million on facility operations, $9.8 million on general utilities, fuel, IT and civil works and $30 million on infrastructure recovery.

HCC spent almost $1 million on dozens of legal cases mainly regarding Development and Building applications and misuse of land.

Hawkesbury City Council General Manager, Elizabeth Richardson, has kept her $372,868 a year job with a narrow 7-5 councillor vote in favor of her new three

year contract. Her contract renewal was discussed by councillors at both the 31 January Council meeting and a briefing the week

Council News

Mayor Misreads the Signs

Hawkesbury Mayor Sarah McMahon has stumbled into a war of words with angry ratepayers and residents fol lowing a Facebook post on her official Mayor’s page showing off new signs for the local government area, with the ma jority suggesting better ways to spend money on the region.

On the Facebook post, she displayed two pictures of herself: one with a Richmond/Marang Nuggura sign that appeared an odd choice for a person who was promoting a “No” vote to last year’s Voice to Parliament referendum. The other with signs to local facilities, such as Richmond Park, Schools of Arts, Pool and the Richmond RSL sub-branch.

“The rollout of new signs across the Hawkesbury City Council area is a proj ect I am very passionate about and real ly keen to see unfold. These signs across our town centres and suburbs will really start to make our area look outstanding, both for tourists/visitors, but also for us as locals, enhancing the visual pride we have for our beautiful Hawkesbury. You will start to see suburb signs, as well as wayfinding and directional signage and I personally think they are simply stunning,” McMahon said. But while there were a handful of positive comments, some in favour of using traditional names at last, many commentators hit back quickly. One commenter Harry Elvin said “And yet you and your fellow councillors can’t find $5000 to assist the local AWL volunteers in their efforts to control the stray cat problem in the area. These are the strays and feral cats that actually damage property and are a detrac tion for tourists. Try getting the local priorities correct and have a real go at reading the room.”

McMahon’s casting vote ensured the failure of a notice of motion to secure $5000 after a rowdy session at the 31 January Council meeting.

Many comments focused on the poor state of many of the roads in the

Councillor Wheeler Attacked Online Over Cat Desexing Program

The current cat plague throughout the Hawkesbury is set to continue after the Liberal/Labor bloc that controls Hawkesbury City Council voted once more against allocating $5,000 to help an existing desexing program run by the Animal Welfare League.

It’s the second month in a row that the bloc has voted down a motion by Green’s councillor Danielle Wheeler. She was supported by Shooters and Fishers councillor, Shane Djuric and all independent councillors, except Les Sheather.

At its first knockback at January’s HCC meeting, Labor’s Amanda Kotlash demanded more information after a presentation by Animal Welfare League Hawkesbury Branch Secretary, Anne Robbie, who spoke of the crisis facing the LGA.

Neither the local or surrounding pounds are taking any more kittens or cats, indicating that the problem will only get worse.

“Last month I was told I didn’t provide enough information and that I failed to prove that rescues and shelters were at crisis point. I was told I was lazy and “grandstanding”.

“The social media attacks went on for a week and included a Councillor’s partner (most of them have now been removed or hidden)”, Cr. Wheeler said on her Facebook page. “So this time I provided pages of information, and links to scientific publications,” Cr Wheeler added. “It still wasn’t enough for the Libs, Labor or Cr Sheather. It’s hard not to see this as polit-

ical. It’s hard not to conclude that the only information that mattered was my name on the motion.

“Council is looking at running its own subsidised desexing program but that’s not up and running yet, and won’t be for at least another month,whereas AWL’s is. We’re wasting valuable time in which more cats are coming into season and reproducing.”

Just yesterday yet another resident was asking for help to rehome abandoned kittens she found at her granddaughter’s house.

“Can anyone tell me if there is a cat/ kitten rescue in the Hawkesbury area please. I have a mother cat and 3 kittens found in my granddaughter’s garden 3 weeks ago…..Tried the local pound, not interested, and Blacktown pound wont take cats at all. Why do people get cats and not desex them and allow them out at night. The mother cat is no older than 7 or 8 months herself.” she said.

The woman’s publicised dilemma is becoming more common as residents take to social media asking for help. Even the Mayor, Sarah McMahon, claims to have had kittens dumped on her doorstep and took the kittens to the pound, and yet she still voted against the desexing plan.

The number of kittens born is far greater than facilities, both private and public, available to care for them. The AWL has described it as an emergency situation with hundreds and hundreds of kittens born and abandoned in the Hawkesbury.

Council News

Council Finally Settles on Site for New $8m RFA Centre after Two Year

Four months after being taken to task by rural firefighters for inaction over a critically important new Rural Firefighting Service (RFS) headquarters, Hawkesbury City Council (HCC) has finally identified a site for the $8 million facility .

The HCC has reverted to a plan to locate-locate the RFS Fire Control Centre together with the regional headquarters of the Special Emergency Services together at 6 McKinnons Road, Wilberforce. The site will be put forward to councillors at tomorrow night’s (Feb 13) HCC meeting for confirmation.

“As the land is privately owned, an acquisition process will be required to be followed. Council Officers have undertaken initial discussions with the owners of the land and, subject to Council resolving to endorse this site, will formally commence the acquisition process,” HCC said in the Feb 2024 Council Papers.

The funding for the facility, vital to the region due to the high frequency of bushfires, was first promised in 2021 and the $8 million in funding officially announced in June 2022.

After a major false start - when a “groundbreaking” ceremony was held at 295 Sackville Road, Wilberforce. But the Centre was put on hold then deemed unsuitable and as HCC then dithered in finding a new site.

In November last year, 32 angry fire chiefs wrote an open letter to HCC and Mayor Sarah McMahon.

“At a recent Captains’ briefing provided by Hawkesbury FCO Superintendent Karen Hodges, we were shocked to learn that there has been no progress in the

building of an urgently needed replacement District Fire Control Centre; a project announced in 2021 and scheduled for completion in 2024, and backed by $8 million of funding from the NSW

NEW MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES FOR THE HAWKESBURY

In response

The Hawkesbury now has two new free mental health services for people of all ages, funded by the Albanese Government.

By the end of this year, the Hawkesbury will have two new free mental health services for people of all ages, funded by the Albanese Government.

Based in Richmond our new Headspace and Head to Health Centres deliver easy access to support unlike anything the Hawkesbury has previously had.

Based in Richmond, both Head to Health and Headspace will deliver ready access to support unlike anything the Hawkesbury has previously had.

I know these services can change and save lives across our community

I believe these services can change and save lives across our community.

Hawkesbury Headspace

Coming soon: Hawkesbury Headspace

Finally young people in the Hawkesbury have a dedicated mental health service.

Located behind Coles at Richmond.

Located at 120 Francis St, Richmond, behind the Coles.

Phone: 1800 517 171

Finally, young people in the Hawkesbury will have a dedicated mental health service.

Hawkesbury Head to Health

Now operating: Hawkesbury Head to Health.

This free mental health service for adults is funded by the Federal Government and available 6 days a week.

This free mental health services for adults is fully funded by the federal government and is available 6 days a week.

Phone: 1800 595 212

Located at 1 Musson Ln, Richmond Phone: 1800 595 212

RFS,” East Kurrajong Volunteer Bush Fire Brigade Captain Ian Luck said in a note to the Hawkesbury Post that contained the letter.

to the letter, Hawkesbury

City Council (HCC) issued an aggressive media release that, in part, blamed the Hawkesbury Rural Fire Service – along with state and federal governments – for the lack of suitable site for the Centre.

Uncertain Future for The Agricultural Centre for Excellence

Students were promised a state of the art agricultural learning house of excellence. Outdoor, learnings, labs, a green house to develop specialised agricultural skills for future work placement. Five years since the Centre of Excellence in Agricultural Education opened its doors the high school experience for students has been isolating and full of broken promises.

Today the promised Centre of Excellence in Agricultural Education is an overgrown paddock, enclosed by tall chain link fencing. The site contaminated by PFAS, the exact source of the toxic forever chemical remains “under investigation”. Early reports are that it was bought in by contaminated fill.

For fee paying parents like Danielle Griffiths who’s daughter was selected to attend the school, it’s a hard pill to swallow. “They don't have anywhere to go, they don’t have any sense of a normal high school. They are just stuck in rooms (at the TAFE) they are misplaced. They just don’t have a normal high school experience.”

The NSW government has confirmed students will remain in temporary accommodation all this year and no promises are being made about when and where a new location will be confirmed or whether the facility will ever be built.

Responding to a series of questions from the Hawkesbury Post a spokesperson for Deputy Premier and Minister for Education and Early Learning Prue Car said students and staff will continue to operate in the temporary facilities at the Richmond TAFE facilities at least throughout 2024.

“The former Liberal National Government announced plans in 2019 to build a Centre of Excellence in Agricultural Education on a site that, unfortunately, is contaminated with PFAS,” Car said.

“We understand this situation has been disappointing for families. The Department of Education is exploring alternative locations for the Centre of Excellence facilities and will update the community as this work progresses,” she said.

Back in 2016/2017 the Liberal State Government was singing the virtues

of the new $35 million fully selective school which they told prospective school parents it was expected to open in 2020.

“This is the first high school in Hawkesbury in 30 years and now we can use it to interest young people with a passion for agriculture to combine that with some business acumen and cutting edge technology,” then Member for Hawkesbury Dominic Perrottet wrote to a parent.

However those plans came to an abrupt halt last year when the NSW Department for Education released a progress report which said elevated levels of PFAS had been found in the groundwater at the site. Students who had competed to get into the selective high school so they could learn specialised agricultural skills were left in limbo. Their hopes of a promised state of the art agricultural learning centre, featuring a greenhouse, labs and outdoor learning were no longer in sight.

Today, four years after the school accepted its first enrolments the site is locked up. Still the school continues to accept students and has arranged for the expanding school population to be housed in demountables at Richmond Tafe.

The NSW Department of Education website is still promoting the yet to be built piece of infrastructure on its website, complete with pictures and videos of the facility and a 2022 commencement date.

“The NSW Department of Education is committed to delivering new and upgraded schools for communities across NSW including the Centre of Excellence in Agricultural Education. Co-located at the Western Sydney University Hawkesbury campus, the Centre of Excellence in Agricultural Education will be used as a statewide resource delivering world-class agricultural and science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education,” the NSW Department of Education website states.

The real experience for Griffiths and her daughter has been anything but. “The situation has impacted my daughter as her friends, other students have left. We weren’t given what we were promised,” Griffiths said.

Riverside Gardens’ Residents Knit for a Cause

Every Tuesday, a group of residents from Riverside Gardens gathers with needles in hand, embarking on a heartfelt mission to bring comfort to those in need. At the centre of this endeavor is resident Christine Cansdale, whose brainchild has transformed North Richmond’s Riverside Garden Retirement Village into a hub of charitable knitting.

Christine, an adept knitter, has generously shared her skills with fellow residents, fostering a sense of community and purpose. The group, consisting of about 15 residents, convenes each Tuesday morning to craft Trauma Teddies, beanies for premature babies, cozy blankets, and Twiddle Muffs designed to engage and soothe dementia patients. Using acrylic wool and

patterns sourced from the Red Cross, these residents have turned their retirement haven into a workshop of warmth and creativity.

The charitable knitting initiative is rapidly gaining popularity among Riverside Gardens' 60 residents, creating a sense of fulfillment and camaraderie within the community. The knitted care items, find their way to various charities, including Ronald McDonald House,

Westmead Hospital, Hawkesbury Hospital, and even into the hands of children during ambulance journeys. Finding joy in knowing that their efforts bring smiles to the faces of sick children and offer a comforting touch to dementia patients, Christine and her fellow residents know that simple acts of kindness, manifested through teddy bears and blankets, can make a profound difference in the lives of others.

Boutique I nde pe nde nt Living fo r O ver 55’s in the Hea rt of the Ha wke sbu ry

Riverside Gardens is a boutique retirement village offering stylish residences within a safe, independent living community.

Established in 2010, Riverside Gardens consists of 2 and 3 bedroom villas and apartments nestled amongst established gardens and tree lined streets.

On a daily basis, the community centre is a hive of activity and a beautiful space for residents to socialise and enjoy.

Riverside Gardens is conveniently located within walking distance of North Richmond shops, cafes, and endless recreation.

Hawkesbury District Hospital returns to NSW Government Management

The NSW Government has sought to assure the community that high-quality health services at Hawkesbury Hospital will continue once its operations transfer back to public control.

Hawkesbury District Hospital (HDH) is set to return to public administration as St John of God Health Care (SJHC) has decided not to renew its operational contract, which concludes next month.

NSW Minister for Health, Ryan Park, said today that the NSW Government would assume responsibility for healthcare provision at Hawkesbury Hospital following SJHC's decision. The transition of services from SJHC to Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District (NBMLHD) is expected to be completed by June 30, 2024.

“NSW Health and the Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District is well placed to continue to provide high quality healthcare to patients," Minister Park said.

“I want to assure the community that the excellent care and services at Hawkesbury Hospital will remain unchanged.

“And I want to assure staff that NSW Health will engage closely and regularly with you throughout this period to provide for as smooth a transition as possible," he said.

new the contract was attributed to the complexities of managing a single public-private partnership hospital in New South Wales. In a statement, SJHC CEO, Bryan Pyne, highlighted that this decision was part of an organisational review initiated in 2023, identifying opportunities to grow and reshape services. “Operating a single public-pri vate partnership hospital in New South Wales creates a range of operational and financial challenges,” Pyne said.

healthcare, building on their 150 years of

private mental health facilities—St John

The Sydney Ant-Hill: A Modern Tragegy

As a high school teacher, I like to run a lesson about an obscure concept called ‘the Tragedy of the Commons’.

It starts with buying milk at the shops. There you are in Coles or Aldi. Two bottles of milk sit next to each other, one with a use-by date five days from now, and another with ten. You know that you’d easily get through either bottle before the due date, but you do what most people would do, and reach for the freshest milk regardless.

Economists have long known that this is how people behave. Understandably, people make decisions that are best for themselves in that moment; the broader good of society isn’t on their mind.

The problem comes when everyone makes those ‘best for me’ decisions. In our example, perfectly good milk just a couple of days older gets left on the shelf until it ages past its use-by, spoils, and is thrown out.

I offer my students this metaphor as a stimulus, not merely to give them a complex about buying milk. I encourage them to find connections between the story and larger, more serious real-world issues. When we over-fish the oceans, power our society with resources we know will someday run out, overuse antibiotics, or sacrifice agricultural land for housing without regard to the sustainability of these choices, then we are playing out the same ‘tragedy of the commons’ on ever larger stages. Our individual decisions remain rational and yield us short term ease and comfort. But they are collectively bad for our descendants because the bill is generationally deferred.

This is never more obvious than when we consider Sydney’s boundless addiction to urban growth.

Former Labor Premier Bob Carr famously declared that Sydney was “full” back in 2000. Since then, Sydney has grown by another third. That’s over 1.3 million people. Carr’s successors in the current Labor government manifestly no longer share his assessment, secretly targeting a range of suburbs for massive new growth and unprecedented densification. Are we next?

The risks of fire and flood strongly bracket what kind of growth the Hawkesbury can endure. Hawkesbury Council’s housing policy suggests we could build more medium density housing around our major centres of Windsor and Richmond.

However, State Planning Minister Paul Scully is sending conflicting messages to us, writing on the one hand to our Mayor to enjoin us to do our share in creating 377,000 new housing com-

mencements by 2029, and yet warning us that a new Floodplain Evacuation Study places strong constraints on how much development the Hawkesbury can sustain. I think we need much clearer guidance about what is being expected of us.

Many of you now face a daily multihour commute, plus an annual toll bill running into the thousands just to get to work. The alternative is to brave our rail line which lacks a promised connection to the Metro at Schofields, offers no express trains, poor parking, and which has had no upgrade since electrification in 1991. Already-approved housing developments will only exacerbate this problem – lamentable considering we are still catching up on the infrastructure necessitated by the last decade of growth.

als to mid-2023. After accounting for departures, deaths and births, overseas migration represents 77% of Australia’s population growth (data: Federal Centre for Population Projections).

Astonishingly, in NSW the figure is closer to 98% (data: .id research, Sept 2023). Read that again: 98% of all the pressure for new housing, associated infrastructure and congestion in Sydney comes from overseas growth. Think about that when you’re stuck in traffic, and for heaven’s sake, think about it when you vote.

Governments at every level have had this infatuation with ‘growth at any cost’ since the end of World War 2, spurred by some economists, developers and their lobby groups. For example the Urban Development Institute talks incessantly about the need to unlock land supply, fast track approval pathways, lower infrastructure co-contributions while increasing the density and height limits on tenements.

“We deserve better, and we owe better to our successors. That process starts by ensuring that the elected representatives on our Councils and Parliaments are not in the pockets of developers.”

Worse, the Hawkesbury’s youth are being squeezed out of their ability to remain in the communities that they grew up in and feel an affinity for, increasingly unable to afford to either buy or rent. Many are forced to move away, increasing social isolation and losing the benefits of family support.

Council could do more to ease this by implementing affordable housing mandates in new estates, diversifying our housing mix, and permitting more generous granny flats and secondary dwellings on house blocks under one title. I have supported such changes, but progress has been far too slow.

However, the biggest factor in this squeeze, and only grudgingly admitted by politicians, is Australia’s level of migration.

A post-COVID surge saw a record-breaking annual 615,400 arriv-

All these factors affect the supply side, yet they studiously ignore the demand side caused by migration. They ignore a fundamental truth – No growth is limitless. In biology we call a body that seeks to grow without bound ‘cancer’.

Sadly, Labor and Liberal governments have been happy to march to this tune. They claim that housing unaffordability is the price we pay for the stimulus to the broader economy, and to the construction sector in particular. These and other concerns like balancing the intergenerational ratio of taxpaying Australians to retirees and pension recipients are valid, but if there are winners and losers in such national tradeoffs, too many of the losers seem to be concentrated at the outer fringes of our major cities, where we suffer congestion and crushing cost-of-living challenges.

Skilled migration should be a part of Australia’s future, but 615,400 arrivals – most of whom gravitate to Australia’s major cities, is too much. It would be prudent to reduce migration until the

infrastructure backlog is addressed, and proper incentives formulated to encourage new arrivals to settle in Australia’s regions. It’s disgraceful that despite this elephant in the room, successive governments have never set a population target, or properly investigated what Australia’s ‘ideal’ population or rate of growth should be. Every study you’ll read merely attempts to reactively model the low, medium and high growth scenarios that ‘might’ happen because there is no population policy, and never has been.

If you drive through the ‘instant suburbs’ that have sprung up near the Hawkesbury, we see a style of development that is neither pleasing to the eye, nor representative of anything we should seek to emulate. Tiny blocks, no eaves, no trees, black roofs. Nevertheless, I have a growing folder of examples of realtors hawking nearby greenfield lands in the Hawkesbury to developers, tantalising them that these lands too will inevitably be rezoned and absorbed into the Sydney anthill, yielding much profit to their investors. Beleaguered landowners are faced with an invidious choice; be taxed off their land when speculation triples their land value (and therefore their rates), or give in to land-bankers who don’t care about the erosion to our sense of community.

Hawkesbury residents deserve more agency in determining the shape and scale of development in our city, rather than be carried along in the current of a fatalistic belief that more urban sprawl can’t be avoided, and will continue forever. In such a historic and beautiful area, we deserve better, and we owe better to our successors.

That process starts by ensuring that the elected representatives on our Councils and Parliaments are not in the pockets of developers.

Like the dilemma facing you in the milk aisle, our ‘tragedy of the commons’ is our addiction to unfettered growth. It might serve a logical, beneficial short term goal, but it is gradually undoing the threads of what it is that makes the Hawkesbury such a pleasant place to live.

Nathan Zamprogno is an independent Councillor on Hawkesbury City Council and a local high school teacher. These views are his own and do not represent Council.

The circles represent zones identified by the State Government’s new proposed housing rules that could permit flats of up to eight stories. Council has resolved to oppose this plan.

Nathan Zamprogno

Councillor

Every Ratepayer in Macquarie will Receive a Tax Cut

As the cost of living crisis bites, the federal government is trying to win back voters promising tax cuts for all Australian taxpayers. For the 67,000 taxpayers in Macquarie, this will mean an average tax cut of $1624.

To find out how much you will benefit from Labor’s tax cuts, use the calculator on the Treasury website: www. treasury.gov.au/tax-cuts/calculator

The changes are designed to reduce benefits to the wealthy while giving lower income earners more tax breaks. They break a key election promise by reducing the thousands of dollars in tax cuts promised to high incomes earners in favour of bigger tax cuts for those earning under $150,000. The cuts will come into effect from July 1.

“Our tax cuts are about ensuring more workers in Macquarie can keep more of what they earn because we know that will take pressure off people doing it tough,” Susan Templeman, Member for Macquarie said.

“Every taxpayer in Macquarie will now get a tax cut. 85 percent of taxpayers in Macquarie will receive a larger tax cut than under the previous Stage 3 model.

“We’re delivering more help for working families and more help for Australians already under the pump from the cost of living, putting cash back into people’s pockets when they need it most,” she said.

The average Australian wage earner on $73,000 per annum will receive a tax cut of $1504 which is more than $800 extra in their pocket each year.

Treasurer Jim Chalmers said; “This is the right and responsible thing to do – to deliver more relief for more workers without adding to inflationary pressures or burdening the budget.”

Asbestos Contamination Spreads to St. John of God Hospital, North Richmond

Asbestos has been discovered at St.John of God Hospital in North Richmond, raising concerns of potential criminal conduct, according to the New South Wales Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

The EPA confirmed the presence of bonded asbestos in mulch at various new locations around Greater Sydney, including the hospital in North Richmond, Woolworths in Kellyville, and a Transport for NSW park in Wiley Park.

In a statement, St John of God said the mulch was tested as a part of the EPA’s investigation into asbestos in mulch across Sydney, and was found within a securely fenced area of the hospital’s redevelopment construction site, not accessible by patients, visitors or caregivers.

“NSW Health advises bonded, or non-friable asbestos, is considered low risk to human health and the environment. Our priority is the safety of our caregivers and patients, and we are taking all necessary steps as directed by the EPA. The area will remain securely fenced until the necessary remediation works are complete,” it said.

Several schools, including Penrith Christian School in Orchard Hills and St Luke’s Catholic College in Marsden Park, have been identified as having received mulch from the same contaminated source. While over 70 garden beds and parks are undergoing testing across Sydney, at least 25 sites have already been confirmed to contain the potentially life-threatening material.

NSW EPA Chief Executive Tony Chappel told 2GB Radio that the inves-

tigation is exploring multiple lines of inquiry, including the possibility of foul play or criminal conduct. “We are looking at multiple lines of inquiry absolutely, including allegations of foul play or criminal conduct,” he said.

The EPA clarified that there is currently no evidence of asbestos contamination at the identified schools, and the testing is purely precautionary.

“Schools have made individual risk assessments based on the amount of mulch on site, with the majority remaining open and one school choosing to close,” The EPA said in a statement.

“Those that remain open are advised to keep students and staff away from garden beds in and around the school sites, and to expect to see EPA officers on the ground throughout the day,” it said.

The new findings come one day after the NSW government announced the establishment of an Asbestos Taskforce, along with an increased workforce of public servants, including firefighters, to support the EPA in its investigation.

The EPA said the government's primary focus is on "contact tracing" along the complex supply chain and ensuring prompt testing, reporting, and management of any positive results.

The EPA has advised all landowners to implement measures to prevent public access and commence the removal of contaminated mulch.

Regular updates on positive sites will be provided on the EPA website, and individuals with concerns about mulch are encouraged to contact the EPA Environment Line on 131 555 or at info@epa. nsw.gov.au

Woman Charged with Attempted Murder after Katoomba Crash

A woman has been charged with attempted murder after police allege she drove her car into a truck in an attempt to kill her young daughter. The incident occurred at about 6am on January 22 on the Great Western Highway near Katoomba.

The 31-year old woman and a sevenyear-old girl were pulled from a burning car by a passer-by at about 6am on January 22. The child was subsequently flown to The Children’s Hospital at Westmead in a serious condition. The woman was taken to Westmead Hospital with multiple injuries. Both were left with extensive burns. A third person, who assisted after the accident, a woman in her 40’s was taken to hospital with minor burns.

Police said the woman’s grey SUV crashed into a truck on the Great Western Highway before careering into the bush and bursting into flames.

The driver of the truck was taken to Katoomba Hospital for mandatory testing.

The woman was later arrested at Westmead Hospital and charged with attempted murder. She was refused bail.

Teen Charged following Train Collision with Trailer in Vineyard

Despite the collision, all 29 passengers

apprehended at Penrith Police Station at approximately 4pm on Monday, 29 January 2024.

The teenager faces a total of 13 charges, including: Doing an act with intent to kill or injure a person on the railway; Possession of a prohibited drug (methamphetamine); Possession of equipment for administering prohibited

drugs; Recklessly dealing with proceeds of crime; Possession of goods suspected to be stolen; Driving a motor vehicle during a disqualification period (three counts); Larceny (two counts)

Stealing a motor vehicle (three counts).

The teenager was denied bail.

Photo Credit: Oakville Fire Brigade

Body and Mind Needing Some Extra Care? Head Over to Yoga Bare

Nestled along the Hawkesbury River, Yoga Bare is renowned for its yoga classes, massage therapy, and invigorating hot rock sauna—a haven for locals seeking respite from hectic daily routines.

Owner Anika Day, a former professional singer and dancer from Newcastle, took over ownership in December 2023. Reflecting on her globetrotting career, Anika says, "I took Yoga with me, I took the teachings with me, and it kept me sane for being away from home for such a long period of time."

Beyond its physical benefits, yoga fosters a good mood. Anika, drawing from personal experience, notes how this chemical boost enhanced her well-being during her previous profession and says it can be for others as well.

Anika's mission as owner revolves around fostering a welcoming and supportive atmosphere, countering the modern disconnection exacerbated by social media. The studio's classes and serene setting encourage clients to disconnect from electronics, embrace conversations, and nurture both body and mind.

Yoga Bare caters to diverse needs, including some pre-natal friendly classes and accommodating moms with a "FREE CRECHE" option for childcare during sessions. Classes extend to the older generation, online options for remote participants, and beginner-friendly Hatha yoga.

Anika finds immense reward in witnessing the transformative impact of classes. She shares, "The most rewarding part of my job is to watch how people walk in for a class and then to see how they leave when the class is done. And even if it’s just carrying with them a tiny bit more peace, calmness, or presence." Book a class at https://www.yogabare.com.au/about or experience the tranquility in person.

Bendigo Bank’s Ongoing Support, Bringing Joy and Independence to Riders

"It’s the joy in their faces when they ride," says Ian Travers, President of Richmond Riding for the Disabled (RDA).

“They come once a week. If you spoke to them, it’s the best hour of their week. They are having fun, they are enjoying what they are doing. It gives them independence. Where they may be wobbly on two legs, they are in charge on four legs…you see the joy in their faces when they get up there and are riding around,” Travers says.

However, the financial challenges of caring for horses and maintaining a riding facility are considerable and Travers is eternally grateful for the support from vets, farriers, feed supply businesses and others, contributing to the collaborative effort required to keep RDA operational.

One significant supporter in this effort is Bendigo Bank, which has been sponsoring Richmond RDA since 2015.

“Since 2015/16, they have been a big supporter and have allowed us to apply for various grants and donations, community donations,” he said. Critically he says it is the “consistent support” they provide that has helped the organisation complete many projects they may not have otherwise been able to do. These include an undercover extension to the arena, a six bay horse shelter with water and a ramp to assist riders get on their horses.

Established in 2002, the local Bendigo Bank branch in North Richmond and Richmond Branch since 2013 aimed to provide essential financial services to the area with the additional motivation of being able to distribute much needed funding to Not for Profit organisations in the community. “Our company is governed by a board of volunteers consisting of local business men and women

with a strong focus on community. Since opening in 2002 we are delighted to say we have distributed over $2.4 million

back into the Hawkesbury,” Rowan Parker, Company Chairman said.

“Having a Community Bank with initiative and the ability to assist organisations such as RDA is vital in communities. We couldn’t do any of it without our customers though. Their support

enables us to continue to support our community across a whole range of sectors including, Sport and Recreation , Education , Arts & Culture, Community Facilities , Health and Wellbeing, Environment and Emergency Services,” he said.

QUIZ

Word find

Age Anniversary Cake

1 What is the chemical symbol for sodium?

2 True or false: a cutlass is a type of telescope?

3 The herb coriander is called by what other name in America?

4 World War I ended with the signing of which treaty?

5 Which TV series starred Meghan Markle (pictured) for seven seasons?

No. 017

Theme: Birthday

6 Mules, brogues and pumps are all types of what?

7 Which ‘80s horror movie marked the feature film debut of Johnny Depp?

8 The Sargasso Sea is the only sea without what?

9 Which well-known British artist painted The Hay Wain?

10 Who wrote and performed the 1972 hit You’re So Vain?

Edgeword

Quick crossword

ACROSS

1 Snakes (6)

4 Non-sexual (8)

10 Roman Christianity (11)

11 Spoken word music (3)

12 Ghost (7)

13 French country house (7)

14 Clerics (7)

17 Folding paper art (7)

19 Refrain; pass (7)

20 Striking (7)

21 Gathers (7)

23 Thoughts; ideas (7)

26 Hitch; bind (3)

27 Efficiency increasers (11)

28 Under the pump (8)

29 Softly (6)

DOWN

1 Roosters (5)

2 Power cells (9)

3 End; withdraw (5)

5 Ancient waist garment (9)

6 Orchestral drummer (9)

7 Carer (5)

8 Imprisoning (9)

9 Two-wheeled vehicle (4)

Down

14 Childhood friends (9)

15 Brazen (9)

16 Variety of rock (9)

18 Relative position (9)

No. 017

22 Steep (5)

23 Satellite (4)

24 Pig (5)

25 Cheeky; lively (5)

Insert the missing letters to make 10 words - five reading across the grid and five reading down

There may be

than one possible answer.

Crossmath

Fill in the blank cells using the numbers from 1 to 9. Each number can only appear once in each row, column and 3x3 block

9-Letter

Using the nine letters in the grid, how many words of four letters or more can you list? The centre letter must be included and each letter may only be used once. No colloquial or foreign words. No capitalised nouns, apostrophes or plural words ending in “s”.

Today’s Focus:

22 words: Good

33 words: Very good

44 words: Excellent

The leftover letters will spell out a secret message.

A Broken and Neglected Horse to Police Hero

“Suddenly, Toby saw a person shouting and spluttering, fighting to stay afloat. Without any guidance from Sid, he fought against the current and swam over to them, waiting as Sid grabbed the person by the arm. A wave broke nearby, and the man was wrenched from Sid’s grip, disappearing from view for a few moments before reappearing a few meters away. Toby saw the man before Sid did and changed direction instantly. Even in the panic and chaos, Sid was acutely aware of what Toby was doing. By this stage, he was simply a passenger. Toby was actively chasing the man in the surf. Time was running out.”

"Second Chance" is a compelling story of Toby, a neglected Clydesdale-cross, finding a second lease on life. It is also a tale of two lives rescued from despair – one, Toby, horribly let down, and the other, Tiff, struggling with demons and the aftermath of a serious head injury. Above all, it is a story of kindness and courage, a narrative of two souls on an extraordinary journey through life after being granted a second chance.

The story unfolds in the drought-stricken fields of Northern New South Wales, where Mounted Police officer Tiffany Williams discovers an advertisement for a Clydesdale-cross horse at an unbelievably affordable price. Arriving at a drought-stricken farm, Tiff purchases the bargain-priced horse but also uncovers his brother, Toby – a badly neglected, ungainly horse destined for the knackery.

“In 2001, they arrived at a property terribly affected by the drought. They bought this horse, a Clydesdale-cross. But Tiff went around the back of the property, and there was this other horse close to death,” Thurgood said. “She found out he was the half-brother of the one she was buying, but the owner had decided not to feed him and send him to the knackery because he wasn't very good-looking,” she added.

The connection between Toby and Tiff was instant, and he turned out to be the most remarkable horse she'd ever encountered. A split-second decision sparked an astonishing journey from a brutal life in a desolate paddock to a

flourishing career within the stables of the NSW Mounted Police.

Toby's unconventional appearance, with a large Roman nose and mottled colouring was not a typical recruit for the Mounted Police. However, he proved to be one of their most trusted and valued members, handling situations too difficult for many other horses, including violent demonstrations such as the Cronulla riots.

“He didn’t look good enough to be a mounted police horse, but Tiff knew he’d be perfect for the job. So Tiff, being very persuasive, managed to get the Commander of the mounted police to let her bring him in on a trial,” Thurgood said.

“Toby’s had a remarkable life. He saved a tourist from drowning. He was also sent to the Cronulla Riots, one of only four horses sent down there that day. So, it's about not just Tiff saving Toby and Toby saving Tiff but also Toby’s contribution to society,” she added.

For Diana, the book - only her second - has been an unexpected success, and now, thanks to actors Arron Jeffery and Zoe Naylor, both passionate about horses, securing the film rights, it looks to be made into a film. Thurgood revealed that Eagle Rose Productions is responsible for bringing Toby's story to life on film. With preparations for the screenplay already underway, the cinematic adaptation promises to capture the essence of Toby's heroism and the transformative power of second chances.

As for Thurgood, she’s now revisiting some of her earlier short stories about animals with a view to turning them into books. “I just finished reading Arnold Schwarzenegger's book, and he was saying that you've got to have passion in life. And if you don't have a passion, think back to when you were three and what excited you. And I'm like, wow, when I was three, I was mad about animals. I just haven't changed. And that's the thing with writing, you've got to find what it is that really drives you and that will give you the power,” she said.

Today, Toby, now 25, enjoys a peaceful retirement near Mudgee alongside his longtime paddock mate and half brother, Bundy.

The Arts

Archibald Prize Heads to Hawkesbury

The Archibald Prize, a cornerstone of Australian art, is making its way to the Hawkesbury Regional Gallery from March 15 to April 28, 2024. This renowned portrait exhibition has been a fixture in the Australian art scene since its inception in 1921, providing a platform for artists across the nation.

The winning artist not only claims the prestigious Archibald Prize but also takes home a substantial $100,000 prize. This regional tour is a rare chance for artists to showcase their work outside major cities.

The prize is awarded for the best portrait of a person distinguished in arts, letters, science, or politics, painted by an artist residing in Australasia. It serves as a visual who's who of Australian culture, featuring portraits of politicians, celebrities, sporting heroes, artists but also regular people.

Some artists have won top honours in the Archibald Prize more than once. Names like William Dobell and Brett Whiteley have stuck around in the winner's circle.

In 2023, the Archibald Prize received a remarkable 949 entries, with 57 finalists chosen. Notably, last year marked the first time more works by women (30) than men (27) were selected as finalists, with a significant representation of First Nations artists.

This regional tour provides a unique opportunity for Hawkesbury residents to experience the exhibition, featuring 57 portraits of public figures and cultural identities from diverse backgrounds. The last time the Archibald Prize was in Hawkesbury was in 2017.

Alongside the main exhibition, the Hawkesbury Young Archie portrait competition will showcase young creative talent. You can stay upto date on the event by following the Gallery’s Facebook www.facebook.com/hawkesburygallery

Archibald Prize 2023 Patrice Wills, ‘No place like Home’

Archibald Prize Winner 2023, Julia Gutman ‘Head in the Sky’

Archibald Prize Winner People’s Choice 2023, Jaq Grantfor. ‘Through the Window’.

Flavorful Frugality: How to beat the Budget Blues Without Giving Up Gourmet Goodness!

By Fiona Hamann

Early Autumn is one of those in-between times in Hawkesbury. We could have a sweltering heatwave or start contemplating lighting our fires. It's not quite stew weather, but maybe there's an occasion for a light soup on a dull day. Conversely, it can also still be a time for salads as meals.

These two recipes consider the rising cost of living. They use pantry staples but also have bright, fresh components. Both feature turmeric, my "spice du jour. " Turmeric is a fantastic addition to your diet, full of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.

White Bean, Rice and Dill Soup (Vegan and GF)

Serves 4-6

The cost of living is starting to bite, but that doesn't mean we should start eating bland or cheaper packaged food. We can still enjoy gourmet flavours and eat healthy and fresh food, but maybe supplement with cheaper tinned items, like in this white bean, rice and dill soup. You can also save some money with an occasional meat-free meal. Made from mostly pantry staples, this soup is sunshine in a bowl, with the turmeric making it a bright, happy yellow, and the dill making it feel fresh and light. Don't be tempted to add stock, as it doesn't need it. If you decide to ignore that advice, reduce the salt dramatically.

The recipe is adapted from one by Naz Deravian that appeared in NYT Cooking. Her recipe calls for Navy beans, but I have substituted them with Cannellini and Butter beans. You could add any white beans or even play around with chickpeas if that's what's in your pantry. The recipe is gluten-free, vegan and only 310 calories, but it is filling enough for the most enormous appetite.

Ingredients:

• 60ml extra-virgin olive oil

• 6 garlic cloves, roughly chopped

• 2 large carrots, scrubbed or peeled and finely chopped

• 2 celery stalks, finely chopped

• 1 large brown onion, finely chopped

• Salt and black pepper

• ½ tsp ground turmeric

• Generous pinch chilli flakes (optional) to taste

• ⅓ cup white jasmine or long-grain rice, rinsed

• 1 400g tin cannellini beans, rinsed

• 1 400g tin butter beans

• 1 TB dried dill or one bunch of fresh dill

• Lemon (optional), for serving

Heat the oil over medium heat in a large pot. Add the garlic, carrots, celery, onion, and a good pinch of salt and cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-10 minutes, until the vegetables have softened.

Add the turmeric and chilli flakes (if using) and cook for another minute. Add the rice and stir for another minute. Add the beans and dill, a generous amount of salt (about 1½ tablespoons), and black pepper to taste. Stir for another minute.

Increase the heat to high, add 6 cups of water, stir, partially cover, and bring to a boil.

Once boiled, cover the pot, reduce heat to low and simmer until the rice is completely soft and the beans are creamy on the inside, about 30 minutes. Be sure to stir occasionally. Taste and adjust the seasoning to your liking as it cooks. Serve with a squeeze of lemon and garnish with more dill.

Lentil and Radicchio Salad with walnuts & honey (Vegetarian)

Serves 4-6

This salad is a delicious Ottolenghi recipe, where the honey balances the bitterness of the radicchio lettuce. The original recipe calls for Manuka honey and Puy Lentils (French or French

style lentils is how they are branded in Australia usually) available at the fabulous Kiana Organic shop in Richmond or in the major supermarkets, as well as from the Richmond Fruit Market, where you can also buy radicchio. If your budget doesn't stretch to Manuka honey, any strong (or even plain) honey will do. I used Bilpin Honey, available

at various small stores around the Hawkesbury, from the Hive in Berambing, or one of the many small fruit stores in Bilpin. This recipe is quite filling on its own, or it can be served as a side.

• 200g puy lentils (dry, not tinned)

• Two bay leaves

• 100g honey

• ¼ tsp flaked chilli

• ½ tsp ground turmeric

• Salt and black pepper

• 1 tsp water (roughly)

• 3 tbsp red wine vinegar

• 90ml olive oil

• 100g walnuts

• ½ medium-size radicchio

• 60g pecorino, parmesan or even hard goat or sheep cheese. Flaked.

• 20g each roughly chopped basil, dill and parsley

Preheat the oven to 150 degrees.

Put the lentils in a medium saucepan, cover with lots of cold water, add the bay leaves. Bring to a boil and simmer for 15 minutes, until tender.

While the lentils cook, prepare the walnuts. In a bowl, combine half of the honey, the chilli, turmeric and a quarter teaspoon of salt, and add a teaspoon or enough water to create a thick paste.

Drain the lentils and return to the saucepan. Whisk together the vinegar, half the oil, the other half of the honey, half a teaspoon of salt and some black pepper until the honey dissolves. Stir into the lentils while they're still hot, then leave to cool a little. Throw the bay leaves away.

Add the walnuts to the honey/chilli paste and stir to coat. Spread on a baking tray lined with baking paper and roast for 15-20 minutes, stirring once, until crunchy and dry but still sticky.

Pour the other half of the oil into a frying pan on high heat. Cut the radicchio into eight wedges and place them in the hot oil, sprinkling them with some salt. Cook for a minute on each side, then transfer into a large bowl. Add the lentils, walnuts, flaked cheese and herbs. Stir gently, taste and season accordingly. Serve warm or at room temperature.

White Bean Dill and Rice Soup

Hawkesbury Talents Shoot for the Stars

In a significant step towards representing Australia on the world archery stage, two young talents from Hawkesbury have secured a spot in the NSW State Team at the upcoming National Archery Youth Championships.

Tristal Hoare, a Year 10 student at Hawkesbury High, qualified in the under 18 compound division during the National Archery Youth Championships held in Tuggeranong, ACT, from March 28th to April 1st, 2024. At the recent Archery NSW Presentation Night, Tristal was honored with an elite bronze for indoor archery, elite silver for clout, and secured the third position in the youth series for compound archers across all age groups. Her exceptional performance earned her a spot in the State Team for the compound division.

Emily Griffiths, another archer from Hawkesbury and a member of Penrith City Archers, also qualified for the NSW State Team. Regarded as being in a class of her own Emily, was awarded elite gold at the NSW Presentation Night or both outdoor, indoor and elite silver for field archery.

Emily was also awarded the highest ranking for Under 16 Compound Female for 2023. To top it off she took home the Lorraine Cooke Memorial Trophy for most improved youth at the presentation. Emily who is a year 9 student at the Centre of Excellence in Agriculture at Richmond also represented Australia at the trans-tasman archery tournament in South Australia last year.

The aspirations of these young archers extend beyond the state level. Tristal is focused on improving and strengthening her skills with the ultimate goal of qualifying for the Australian teams and the university games. Emily shares similar ambitions, aiming for the world championships, the pinnacle for compound archers, as only recurvers are eligible to compete in the Olympics.

Excitement Builds as Hawkesbury Gears Up for Riveting Polo Season

The polo season is approaching with riders and horses ready for action. This year's season promises a showcase of skill and strategy, featuring over 150 riders and 600 horses.

"Circle April 7th on your calendars," advises Teneille Murray, spokesperson for the Windsor Polo Club. "The Hawkesbury will be the hub of polo action as Australia takes on India in the Polo International. It's been 18 years since India was last here, and this year's event is expected to be a showdown of talent and tenacity."

The women's international match features Australia facing off against New Zealand. The rivalry between these two nations guarantees a contest as they vie for bragging rights and glory.

Beyond the matches, there's a significant economic opportunity for the region. Hotels, cafes, pubs, and produce stores, among other businesses, are gearing up to welcome visitors and capitalise on the surge in tourism.

Throughout Autumn weekends, local clubs host their own tournaments. For some amateur polo players, these tournaments represent their first taste of

competitive polo after months of practice and lessons, marking the beginning of their polo journey.

An eagerly awaited highlight of the season is the arrival of the La Dolfina polo team from Argentina, synonymous with excellence in the sport.

"The best players in the world will be at Windsor Polo Club this season," notes Murray. "To host players like Adolfo Cambiaso in this region underscores the high level of excellence of polo in the Hawkesbury and our commitment to growing the sport here."

Spectators are invited to witness polo firsthand this Autumn. "Polo is about family, friends, and fun. Pack a picnic and come see the excitement of our sport," Murray says.

This Autumn season there is no better time to immerse yourself in the world of polo in the Hawkesbury region. So, mark your calendars, secure your tickets, and prepare to witness polo at its finest in the heart of the Hawkesbury.

For more information or to purchase tickets go to www.windsorpoloclub.com.au

Sport

Hawkesbury Gymnastics Club Triumps at State Awards

Windsor’s Kachan School of Tumbling and Performance (KSTP) emerged as a standout at the Gymnastics NSW Annual Awards, securing prestigious honors alongside three exceptional gymnasts. More than 600 people attended the annual awards ceremony at Doltone House in Sydney on February 11, to recognise the achievements of gymnastics within New South Wales.

KSTP clinched the title of Trampoline Gymnastics Levels Coaching Team of the Year, a testament to their outstanding performance during the previous season. The club boasted the largest group of athletes at both regional competitions and the State Levels Championships, earning six state titles and the NSW Levels Club of the Year trophy.

Their success continued at the National Clubs Carnival on the Gold Coast, where KSTP dominated with an impressive tally of 14 gold medals, 11 silver, and 5 bronze across all trampoline disciplines.

Individual gymnasts from KSTP also shone on the international stage. Alexsa Kachan, a 13-year-old prodigy who grew up within the gym, earned the titles of Junior International Tumbling Athlete of the Year and Junior International Double Mini Athlete of the Year in Trampoline Gymnastics. Kachan’s stellar 2023 began with a national championship in her age group, followed by a gold medal at the Junior World Championships in Trampoline.

Cheyanna Robinson, a 24-year-old double-mini trampoline specialist, snagged the title of Senior International Double Mini Athlete of the Year. Robin-

son’s remarkable year included podium finishes at the Coimbra and Santarem World Cups, ultimately being named the Double Mini Trampoline World Cup Athlete of the Year by the International Federation of Gymnastics. She also contributed to Australia’s 4th place finish at the World Championships.

Ethan McGuinness, a 22-year-old tumbler and 2022 World Champion, was recognised as Trampoline Gymnastics Senior International Tumbling Athlete of the Year. This came on the back of McGuinness clinching gold at the Australian Gymnastics Championships and silver at the Santarem World Cup.

Gymnastics NSW CEO, Rebecca Shaw, extended congratulations to all the clubs and athletes nominated and who won

in their category. She said the sport, has become the third most popular activity for children in NSW.

“Our community had an outstanding year, with 99 NSW athletes and officials chosen to represent Australia across 197 assignments,” Shaw said.

“Last year, we were able to build of previous accomplishments to claim 45 international medals and come out as the top state at the Australian Gymnastics Championships.

“This is all possible because of the passion and unity of our community of clubs, coaches, officials, athletes, families and volunteers,” she said.

“Now, we look forward to an incredible 2024, including the Paris Olympics.”

Alexsa Kachan

Cheyanna Robinson

Ethan McGuinness

Sport

Olympian Rose Eyes Paris Following Mankini Fiasco

With the mankini fiasco over Olympic equestrian Shane Rose has his sights set firmly on securing a spot in the Australian eventing team for the 2024 Paris Olympics.

Three time olympian and medal winner Rose was the subject of global media attention when the sports governing body stood him down following a complaint after he wore a Borat-styled mankini at a private, fancy dress showjumping event in the Southern Highlands. However Rose was thankful when just 24 hours later Equestrian Australia issued a statement confirming Rose did not breach the code of conduct.

“Big thank you to everyone for your support. I’m pleased that the Equestrian Australia review has been completed and I have been reinstated and allowed to continue my campaign towards the Paris Olympic Games. The support and interest in this story has been nothing like I have experienced before. Now it’s time to focus on the job ahead and try to get Australian Equestrian in the media for a more positive reason, an Olympic Gold Medal. Thanks again, the support has been huge and much appreciated,” Rose said.

Equestrian Australia launched an investigation into the “mankni-gate” incident triggering a global backlash and unprecedented outpouring for support for the much admired Rose who is widely recognised as one of the sports hardest workers. Equestrian Australia found itself defending its actions after thousands of people took to social media to support Rose and his “Aussie sense of humour.”

Under the hashtag #Isupportshanerose, supporters doubled down posting photos of Rose in his mankini while others went one step further donning their own mankinis while riding horses.

Former Olympian and Channel Seven’s Sunrise host Matt Shirvington said he would initiate a campaign to support him if officials stopped his Olympics campaign. “If you are banned from the Olympics, we’re going to start a campaign. Former Olympians, current Olympians are going to start wearing mankinis. We’ve got to take a stand here, Shane,” Shirvington said.

Bowral Kubota, a major sponsor of the Wallaby Hill event where the manki-

ni incident occurred, also swung in to support Rose. “As a key sponsor of the Wallaby Hill Extravaganza, we want to express our support for your amazing event and Shane Rose for his dedication to the Wallaby Hill Extravaganza. Next year at the Wallaby Hill Extravaganza, embracing Shane’s sense of humour, we will be donating a MANKINI to all spectators. Additionally, to support men’s health, we will contribute $100 for each spectator who displays a sense of humour and attempts to outdo Shane,” Bowral Kubota Director Christopher Pennells said.

Following an investigation Equestrian Australia issued a statement on Monday confirming that Rose did not breach the code of conduct by wearing a mankini to the event on February 11 but stopped short of issuing an apology to the Olympian.

"Shane has reflected on the incident, has apologised and understands the high standards expected of everyone involved in our high performance program," EA CEO Darren Gocher said in a statement.

While EA said there was no breach of the rules EA it added there were a number of recommendations were made following the investigation including that:

Equestrian Australia works with clubs and stakeholders to assess minimum dress standards for future events; And that, Equestrian Australia reviews the education modules for the High Performance Program to ensure they are fit for purpose.

The management of the incident resulted in the resignation of board

member and the Chair of the Integrity Committee Tim Palmer. He said he does not support the manner in which the matter has been handled and informed EA of his resignation effective immediately..

“Clearly I have a disconnect with the position taken and I have therefore tendered my resignation from the board of the EA effective immediately. Hopefully this storm in a teacup is shut down fairly quickly and without further delay and allow Shane to prepare for the Paris Olympics. Best wishes to Shane,” he said in a video posted to Facebook.

Mankini Gate broke the Internet