Hawkesbury Post September 2023

Business night of nights, meet the finalists

See page 14

Missing Wildlife Data Raises Concerns Over Developers and Koala Habitat

Four years worth of vital wildlife rescue data that helps to guide property development approvals, including in the Hawkesbury, is missing from a New South Wales native animal tracking database. The data gap has left hundreds of rescues of threatened endangered species, including koalas, unrecorded across the state.

WIRES, a prominent wildlife rescue group, has described this data gap as a “gift” to developers, attributing it to the long-standing under-resourcing of the BioNet database by the previous state government.

This information vacuum empowers property developers to obtain approvals for development projects based on inaccurate evidence of endangered species inhabiting the sites in question, environmental groups said. Once approved the development approvals can’t be revoked.

The discovery comes as environmental groups and concerned residents are calling for Hawkesbury City Council (HCC) to halt the clearance of critical koala habitat. HCC was the only peri-urban council to controversially adopt the Rural Boundary Clearing Code, passed in 2022, which enables unchecked clearing of existing koala habitat.

“We are in a war and we are losing it and we are losing it badly….. And the war is the rapid development that’s seeing koala habitat cut down,” WIRES koala rescuer Morgan Philpott told the Hawkesbury Post.

The discovery of the missing data was made by the Sydney Koala Basin Network (SBKN). It estimates that approximately 400,000 rescue records are unaccounted for, including those of 28,000 threatened animals.

In the Hawkesbury region alone, 4,000 wildlife rescue records are absent from BioNet, involving around 250 rescues of threatened species, including 100 koalas. This list encompasses creatures such as Gang Gang

Continued on page 5

The Mayor’s campaign against a local charity worker and her withdrawn APVO

On April 17, 2019

then-Councillor Sarah Richards [now Mayor Sarah McMahon] visited Windsor Police Station. Her mission was to secure a provisional Apprehended Personal Violence Order (APVO) against a local resident, Peter “Curly” Nicholson. These can be surprisingly easy to obtain, and she was successful

Fast forward four years, and Nicholson finds himself grappling with physical, mental, and emotional exhaustion. Medication and professional help have become part of his life, combating anxiety and depression stemming partly from what he describes as the “vexatious” actions of the Mayor, in her ultimately unsuccessful pursuit of an APVO against him.

“It’s been pretty hard mentally, and I’ve lost any real enthusiasm for working in the community. I used to love getting out and making a difference, but having that weaponised and portrayed as stalking was really upsetting. I don’t do any volunteer work now as a result,” Nicholson told the Hawkesbury Post. Before this ordeal, Nicholson was

a well-liked and engaged community member, deeply involved in various initiatives. He contributed to a Bushcare group that secured the “Rookies of the Year” award in 2019, participated in Clean Up Australia Day, he was part of the now-defunct McGraths Hill Residents Association, and helped raise funds for kids cancer charity, Camp Quality. Nicholson’s commitment to the community even led him to appear in a volunteer video for the Hawkesbury City Council.

In 2020 Nicholson was personally nominated for the 2020 Hawkesbury Australia Day Awards - Local Hero and Environmental Award. When he found out Cr McMahon was trying to ban him from the awards ceremony, Nicholson contacted Hawkesbury Council’s then General Manager Peter Conroy, to let him know he and his partner would not attend to avoid any “histrionics,” with Cr McMahon.

Close friend Vicky Russell, who had lived next door to Nicholson for two decades, described him as a “wonderful person” who was passionate about his

community. She was disgusted when Cr McMahon tried to obtain a provisional APVO against him.

“Pete’s a wonderful person. Warm-hearted, generous, will do anything for anybody, happy, loves his music, loves tinkering with lawn mowers. Just a genuinely nice person,” Russell said, adding, “To do what she’s done is just out there. I mean, if you want to get into politics, just harden up,” she said.

After the APVO attempt, Russell noticed a significant change in Nicholson; “We used to go out every Friday night and meet, and we’d have drinks. He’d stop going there, he’d stop going out, he’d stop playing his music. He was afraid to go anywhere in case she made more allegations against him, even though they were lies. It really quite affected him,” she said.

The application for the APVO appeared to be part of a concerted effort to prevent Nicholson from attending council meetings. In a statement submitted as evidence by Conroy, it was revealed

Continued on page 13

Letters to the Editor

At the Hawkesbury Post, we warmly welcome a wide range of perspectives and opinions. As part of this we are bringing back to local news, "Letters to the Editor" - a platform to have your say and share your thoughts.

We recommend keeping your letters between 150 to 175 words. Along with your letter, please provide your address and phone number.

Be assured that while these contact details won't be published, they are essential to verify authorship.

To streamline the process, kindly refrain from including attachments with your letters.

We're excited to hear from you and appreciate your contribution to fostering an inclusive and engaging community dialogue.

Please email your letter to info@hawkesburypost.com.au

To the Editor

Protecting Heritage

With so few jewels remaining in our historic Twin Towns, preservation of Inall’s Lane and Durham Bowes is important.

Built by John and Hannah Dight in 1812, on the remaining foundations from an earlier cottage, Durham Bowes is the oldest privately owned house in NSW. It has been elevated on the NSW State heritage register as having exceptionally high significance as an item of National heritage.

The house and its curtilage must be preserved for access to the house and its unimpeded visual amenity.

Welcome To The Hawkesbury Post

It’s been quite a journey to get here, but we are thrilled to present to you the very first edition of the Hawkesbury Post newspaper. In a world where news is rapidly migrating online and local news outlets are dwindling, it may seem unusual to embark on this endeavor. However, we firmly believe that everyone should have access to free, informative news that directly impacts their lives

Our community is in the midst of rapid growth, with a projected 70% increase in population over the next 30 years, bringing our numbers to approximately 115,000. There is a lot happening in the Hawkesbury and significant changes are underway. Our natural environment is under strain, and many in our community are grappling with the rising cost of living. The pace of development surrounds us, affecting everything from our daily commutes to the rising urban heat stress. Our hospitals, schools, and roads are feeling the pressure, and there’s no escaping the ongoing housing affordability and rental crisis.

The HP is still a work in progress, and

we hope to become a more integral part of your lives, broadening our coverage to include events, arts, music, sports, and the vibrant cultural tapestry of the Hawkesbury.

Above all, our mission is to provide you with a trusted source of well-researched information. For far too long, the Hawkesbury has lacked a news outlet willing to ask the tough questions, pursue the truth, and hold those in power accountable.

Without dedicated journalists asking the right questions, we would remain in the dark about many critical matters. Issues like mismanaged contracts, such as the debacle over the Lower Portland ferry contract, council disputes, the spread of hazardous PFAS chemicals from the Richmond RAAF base, the $35 million Windsor sewer repair saga, the council’s incompetence and mismanagement of the collapsed levy bank and drain at Cornwallis, and the damaging effect of unfettered development on our precious native wildlife just to name a few. These are local issues that directly affect ratepayers and residents.

We believe you have the right to know about them.

Even if politics or council matters aren’t of interest to you, we hope our coverage of these issues will enhance transparency and accountability among our elected officials. You deserve to know how your money is being spent and what’s driving the decisions about where it is spent. As a news service born out of the floods, we will continue to deliver vital information during times of emergency.

The Hawkesbury Post is a community-driven newspaper - we can’t do this without you. We want to hear your stories, your concerns, and everything that matters to you in this stunning corner of the world.

Thank you for embarking on this exciting journey with us. We look forward to being your trusted source of news and a platform for your voices to be heard.

Warm regards,

Samantha Magnusson Editor sam@hawkesburypost.com.au

Transport for NSW must reconsider its “ Preferred Option” with the obvious bypass alternative. The bypass to the south would protect this area of heritage significance.

Otherwise present and future generations will be deprived of this unique land mark with a major traffic route thundering past.

Graham McGregor, Mulgoa, NSW

New Richmond Bridge

I am writing to you in regards to the Transport for NSW – New Richmond Bridge and Traffic Improvement Stage 2 Project and that Transport for NSW

have neglected its responsibility in addressing the traffic flow issues for the road users on Grose Vale Road and the safety of the primary school students of North Richmond Public School. The traffic from on Grose Vale Road makes up over 70% of the traffic in peak hour’s that head across the North Richmond Bridge and the volume of traffic will only increase as new property developments are established.

On the 19th July 2023 a student of North Richmond Public School was hit by a car crossing Grose Vale Road and was hospitalised but is now ok. Having a school crossing on a major transit way

is a death trap waiting to happen and when it does happen the blood should be on Transport for NSW hands. Transport for NSW had a solution for this problem from a traffic congestion viewpoint and the safety of school students but have chosen to ignore these and continue to farm the traffic as it is today to the major intersection at North Richmond where this traffic could have been diverted by the Purple Route. It feels that the safety and the true needs of the community are being ignored as it does not align with other ‘interest’.

Matthew Parkes

Malcolm Turnbull

Opinion

More than 220 years ago, my forebear, John Turnbull, his wife Ann Warr and their children settled on the Hawkesbury River. Together with their neighbours, they built the Ebenezer Chapel in 1809 and it is today the oldest church building in Australia.

We have visited Ebenezer many times over the years, and always the solemnity and warmth of that family history moves us to remember and respect the pioneers who built it, and the hardships they endured.

The bicentenary celebrations were wonderful in 2009, but the most memorable visit for me was a Turnbull reunion around that time. As we turned up we saw that everyone was being given name tags with a different coloured ribbon depending on which child of John and Anne Turnbull they were descended from. As we approached, the family genealogists’ eyes lit up, as they handed us name tags with two coloured ribbons. They had discovered we were descended not just from one Turnbull son, William Bligh, but by a longer and more circuitous route, another one, Ralph, as well.

So family, history, tradition are all bound up for me in the Hawkesbury. It is part of me and of so many people who live in the Hawkesbury region today.

But when our forebears arrived they were met by the local residents - aboriginal men and women - whose families had been there for 60,000 years, time out of mind.

The Durag people, the Darkinjung people and the people of the Eora nations have a deep connection to this region since time immemorial.

Their connection with the land, their ancient history in this land, was not only omitted from our Constitution in 1901, they were specifically excluded. The 1967 referendum reversed this exclusion, but it didn’t provide the recognition in our nation’s founding document.

I will be voting YES in the referendum on the Voice.

Constitutional recognition of Indigenous Australians is long overdue, and on 14 October our nation has a chance to finally

get this done.

The Uluru Statement from the Heart was the product of a series of long consultations, where Indigenous Australians resolved that they wanted constitutional recognition to take the form of an entrenched Indigenous advisory council to be called the Voice.

Since then this particular amendment has been the singular focus of the constitutional recognition movement. If this is the form of recognition most Indigenous Australians want, the rest of us need a good reason to say No.

Back in 2017 when this idea was new and lacked detail, my government did not support it. We believed it had no chance of success in a referendum, with the history of constitutional reform in Australia showing any proposal faced with concerted opposition has failed. However, the Voice could defy history; it is winnable, but it will require people who are undecided to vote YES.

Our other major concern was that the Voice would create an institution in the Constitution the qualification for which was something other than Australian citizenship. For me, as a republican Prime Minister, this was particularly important. I believe our head of state should be one of us; an Australian citizen, not whichever English aristocrat happens to be the King or Queen of the United Kingdom.

I have wrestled long and hard with this issue of constitutional principle, and I have concluded that while the Voice amendment is not entirely consistent with my egalitarian, republican values nonetheless we are better off supporting it.

The arguments for a Voice are obvious; of course Governments and Parliaments should consult with and be advised by Indigenous Australians on decisions that affect them. In my own Government I was inspired

by Dr Chris Sara’s advice - do things with Indigenous Australians not to Indigenous Australians.

Our Indigenous Policy Committee of Cabinet ensured that all ministers and departments paid attention to Indigenous advancement - not just the Indigenous Affairs officials. Every meeting of that committee began with a presentation from and discussion with the co-chairs of the Indigenous Advisory Council, Chris Sara and Andrea Mason. They had regular and direct access to cabinet.

So I would expect the Voice would operate in a similar way but with one very important difference. It would have greater standing and authority because it was not a council of Indigenous Australians chosen by government but rather, chosen by Indigenous Australians. Its credibility will depend on the quality of its advice but also on how many Indigenous Australians participate in that choice and whether Indigenous Australians overall feel the Voice truly represents them. While many Council members were connected to their communities, there was also no structural link that allowed the members of the Council formally to hear the views of local and regional people, which is the major difference with the current Voice proposal.

So the real issue is not whether there should be a Voice, but whether it should be entrenched in the Constitution. This will mean that it cannot be abolished by Parliament as ATSIC was. But it won’t mean that governments or parliament must follow its advice. It will not have a right of veto, but it will have considerable influence in matters relating to Indigenous Australians. As Prime Minister Albanese observed recently it would be a very brave government that ignored its advice on a matter relating to indigenous affairs.

The scares and diversions whipped up over the Voice have been utterly predictable. But let me deal with a few of them,

Will the Voice give advice on the date of Australia Day? I am sure it will recommend the date be moved. So what? That’s hardly a novel suggestion. What about other matters? Some have suggested it could offer

advice on defence. Well it might. But why would the views of Indigenous Australians on AUKUS carry more weight than anyone else’s let alone on the Copyright Act or industrial relations?

The Voice will be most persuasive when it gives advice on matters directly relating to the welfare and advancement of Indigenous Australians. This is what the Indigenous people in local and regional communities will expect it to be dealing with, and this will make it an opportunity for better government, not a threat to it. The Voice is intended to be powerful. It seeks to address what the Uluru Statement from the Heart called the “trauma of powerlessness”. It should be very influential. But its influence will be greatest when it is speaking on matters central to the advancement of Indigenous Australians.

My Government’s Indigenous Advisory Council was chosen by the government. The members had no democratic mandate from Indigenous Australians. They did not lack expertise, or goodwill or commitment to help their communities. What they lacked was a clear democratic mandate from their own people.

The Uluru Statement from the Heart also called for Treaty, but this is not what Australians are being asked to vote on at the referendum. The establishment of a Voice will not deliver a Treaty. It may make it more achievable. Treaties are being negotiated at State and Territory levels already. They take time, careful and respectful consultation and negotiation. But whatever the Voice may propose, the only people that can commit the Commonwealth of Australia to any Treaty are the members of its Parliament, elected by all Australians.

All sides of the Voice debate seek to draw lessons from the 1999 Republic referendum. So I will just share one. Do not allow the perfect to be the enemy of the good.

The Voice delivers recognition and respect to Indigenous Australians in the manner they have sought. On October 14 we can together bend the arc of history a little further towards justice by voting YES.

Malcolm Turnbull is a former Prime Minister of Australia

Councils faces Lower Portland Ferry charging dilemma as fresh $500,000 annual bill looms

Hawkesbury City Council and Hills Council will have to make a decision by next July whether to start charging for use of the Lower Portland Ferry, or whether they will make their ratepayers pay an extra combined $500,000 a year when state funding runs out.

Ratepayers were also advised last month that the regular maintenance to the ferry, which will occur in coming months, will cost $500,000, according to a list of major projects included in the latest rates notice sent by HCC. The last maintenance that ran over in 2019, cost $558,000.

In its 2019 submission to the state government to secure funding for the ferry, the two councils said it cost $1.04 million a year to run the ferry including scheduled maintenance and a $1.25 million replacement cost “in 12 years” (2031). The cost to Hawkesbury ratepayers of paying the ferry’s operation TONO was listed as $487,594 in the 2021/2022 HCC Annual Report. The Hills Council has previously said it is contributing $260,000 each year towards the running of the ferry which HCC manages. But the four year, $500,000 deal with the NSW government ends 30 June, 2024. This leaves the councils with a dilemma of how to fund the extra costs of about $500,000 a year.

With the exception of Lower Portland, all ferries operated by local councils have a service charge for usage.

Transport for NSW operates 12 vehicle ferries at nine locations across NSW and there are at least an additional six ferry services operated by local councils and NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service.

The state government appears unlikely to want to take over the operation of

the ferry, despite pleas by Hawkesbury Mayor Sarah McMahon. Transport for NSW is working to try and provide a loan vehicle while the ferry is pulled out of the water for its scheduled maintenance, planned for next month. A tender for the maintenance was not issued until July 25.

A last minute deal saw the ferry operator TONO, last week agree to reverse its decision to cease operating the ferry – its advice to HCC was on July 25 – and continue it until Sept. 2024, when Council elections are due. It is also unclear if TONO will be receiving extra payments to keep the ferry running between now and next September.

Transport for NSW sources said that the idea behind the one-off funding was so the two councils would transition the loss-making service in some way during the term of the funding.

“Transport for NSW will work with Hawkesbury Council to explore options to ensure that the Lower Portland Ferry remains in operation for the community. This includes current discussions around assisting Hawkesbury Council with a loan vessel during upcoming key maintenance work,” a spokesman for Transport for NSW told The Hawkesbury Post.

“Transport for NSW provided Hawkesbury City Council with a one-off four year funding contribution of $500,000 towards running the Lower Portland. That funding runs until June 2024.

In the Hawkesbury, Transport for NSW operates the Sackville, Wisemans Ferry and Webb Creek vehicle ferries 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The Lower Portland ferry has a significantly lower patronage and Hawkesbury City Council operates this 5am to midnight, seven days a week.”

Lower Portland Ferry

Malcolm Turnbull

SUSAN TEMPLEMAN MP

Federal Member for Macquarie

Opinion

Unprecedented crisis as homelessness and hunger spreads

Homelessness and food insecurity is surging in the Hawkesbury, creating a desperate situation for many individuals and families who are now seeking help from local charities for the first time.

Linda Strickland, the founder of Windsor-based charity Hawkesbury Helping Hands, said she has never witnessed such dire circumstances.

I’ve lost count of the number of homes my adult children have lived in since they left the family home.

They’ve rented places with the roof collapsing and windows that won’t shut or with holes in walls, but still paying a large chunk of change for the privilege and at risk of being turfed out by a landlord at any time.

They, and their friends, despair of being able to afford a home of their own.

But they are just one group suffering in the housing crisis. I have spoken to single mums who can no longer afford to rent locally; to women who are victims of domestic violence; and to veterans who are homeless.

And, of course, homeowners are facing higher interest rates than anyone would like.

By any measure, there is a housing crisis. It’s not something that has happened overnight, but as a result of years and years of inaction on the issue.

We need a housing system that is well-supplied and well-functioning so that Australians can get into the housing market or find rental accommodation at prices they can afford.

The stability, security and affordability of your housing affects your life. It impacts your ability to get a job, complete an education, maintain social connections and achieve good mental and physical health.

I’m proud the Albanese Government has a broad and ambitious housing agenda, recognising we need to work with the states, local governments, the housing and construction industry, community organisations, and investors.

Significantly, our $10 billion Housing Australia Future Fund (the HAFF) – the single biggest investment in social and affordable rental housing by a Federal Government in more than a decade – is set to pass through the Parliament.

The HAFF will provide a secure, ongoing income stream that will deliver 30,000 new social and affordable homes in its first five years.

It will also help encourage greater housing investment from non-government sources which is vital – for instance, in the United Kingdom, around 70 per cent of money to build affordable housing is sourced from private financing.

The HAFF is one of many things we’re doing to boost housing supply.

We’re working with the states to support planning and zoning reforms, to assist renters and to improve their social housing.

We’re providing tax incentives for buildto-rent housing, where apartment blocks or larger developments are purpose-built for rental and owned as a long-term revenue-generating asset.

We’re expanding eligibility for the Home Guarantee Scheme which reduces the deposit people need and has already helped more than 67,000 people into their first home since we were elected.

From next year, we’ll be supporting 40,000 Australian households into their own home through the Help to Buy scheme, bringing ownership back in reach for people who have been locked out of the housing market.

And we’re working with the states on a new homelessness plan with around $1.7 billion set aside for housing and homelessness services.

All these steps are needed to tackle the housing crisis, because everyone deserves a safe and secure roof over their head.

Robyn Preston, the Liberal State member for the Hawkesbury has also been invited to write a column

“What is happening now in the Hawkesbury – food relief, homelessness, is a disaster. The stories we’re hearing are devastating. I awoke early one morning to another message of two people living in a tent with a dog,” Ms Strickland said.

“In the almost 12 years since we started, never seen anything like we are seeing of late. We are shifting anywhere up to 20 pallets of food a week,” she said.

Many of those seeking help are individuals who would not typically be associated with homelessness – people with mortgages, children in school, and stable jobs. The rising cost of living, including soaring interest rates and electricity prices, has made it increasingly difficult for them to afford basic needs like food.

Heartbreaking stories continue to emerge. One recent example is an 18-year-old woman who reached out to HHH because she couldn’t afford rent and had been living in her car, enduring freezing temperatures. She received essential items such as pillows, blankets, warm clothing, and a food pack, providing some comfort and sustenance in her difficult situation.

The magnitude of the crisis is underscored by groups of people living in tents or makeshift campsites. The challenge lies in finding suitable places where they can access support services, food, and hygiene facilities. The absence of camping sites close to Windsor, where these essential services are available, presents a significant hurdle. Additionally, the plight of homeless individuals with pets adds another layer of difficulty in finding suitable accommodation.

The number of people sleeping on the streets of New South Wales has soared in the past year. The latest NSW Street Count released last week counted 1,623 rough sleepers, a 34 per cent increase compared to last year’s total of 1,207 but those figures were counted in February and since then economic conditions have deteriorated further.

“We need to do better, we need to drive these numbers down and provide our most vulnerable with access to safe and secure housing,” Minister for Housing and Homelessness Rose Jackson said. “We must ensure we are supporting our regional and rural communities. I have seen firsthand the housing issues experienced in regional and rural areas”

The crisis is expected to worsen with electricity prices soaring. Residents have expressed their concern on social media.

“Our electricity has gone up 25% how can ANYONE afford this!?” one resident posted while another said they had received an email from AGL about a 33% increase starting the following week.

Federal Member for Macquarie Susan Templeman said, “Inflation is really hurting people’s budgets. The main pressure is increased mortgage payments, so it’s more important that we make non-inflationary decisions.

“In July measures for cost of living assistance will start to flow. For some families the big difference will be cheaper child care. There will be cheap-

er medicines from September 1 as well as $500 towards energy bills and $650 for small businesses. There will also be a tripling of rent assistance for people on welfare.”

But she admitted in the meantime, “We are in a bit of limbo. During the GFC the government gave cash handouts, if we were to do that now it would only add to inflation.”

Hawkesbury Helping Hands (HHH) has been at the forefront of providing essential support to those in need, offering food, blankets, shoes, sleeping bags, tents, pet supplies, and advice on support services and accommodation. However, the organisation relies entirely on donations to sustain its work.

For the first time, there are people seeking help from outside the LGA from areas traditionally regarded as more affluent. HHH has received calls of help from people in areas, including Glenorie, Baulkham Hills, Castle Hill, Blacktown, and Penrith. Young and middle-aged workers with mortgages are taking charity meals for the first time. Veterans who have become homelessness are also seeking help.

“They are embarrassed as they are

forced to choose between spending on food and meeting other rising living costs,” Ms Strickland said. “Parents are missing meals so their children can eat.”

Despite the tireless efforts of HHH and other organizations, gaps in the system have become apparent. A Facebook post lamented the case of a 16-year-old who remains on the streets despite exhausting all available channels for assistance.

HHH sought a sleeping bag for the young individual, relying on other rough sleepers to watch over him for the night. Ms Strickland said this incident highlights the need for comprehensive support systems to address the complexities of homelessness and ensure that no individual falls through the cracks.

However, she remained frustrated by some elected representatives using the charity for their own political purposes and she said it was time they provided more meaningful support.

“Our unit is private property and if anyone wants to visit us again they may want to bring their cheque book,” she said.

HAWKESBURY’S WORKING HUNGRY

Hawkesbury Helping Hands at work.

Susan Templeman

The Region Braces for a Challenging Fire Season

The Hawkesbury and Blue Mountains regions once again faces the threat of a difficult fire season as memories of the 2019/2020 bushfire disasters still haunt residents.

Experts are predicting another challenging fire season ahead as local authorities and residents have been working tirelessly to prepare for the months ahead. Firefighters, volunteers, and residents are gearing up for what may be a long and difficult season. Higher fuel loads in areas untouched in 2019-20 including the Sydney basin, coastal regions and the Hunter are likely to experience “increased risk” according to the Australiasian Fire Authorities Council outlook.

Prevailing conditions are by no means benign, while comparisons to the catastrophic 2019 bushfire season, which raged from August 2019 to March 2020, are inevitable, they are not anticipated. According to Rural Fire Service (RFS) Operation officer Luc Roberts: “In the Hawkesbury we are expecting a fairly typical fire season like those preceding years of floods. We are not expecting a huge fire like Gospers. But everyone out there should be aware that this will be a return to a typical fire season where we do have fires, and fires run quickly and hard.”

This year, the community is coming together with renewed determination to protect their homes, livelihoods, and environment.

The Bureau of Meteorology is expected to declare El Nino conditions which mean warmer temperatures and less rainfall for eastern Australia. Scientists have already declared that 2023 has experienced the hottest winter on record.

Reflecting on the lessons learned from the 2019/2020 inferno, Roberts said, “2019/2020 really provided a steep learning curve for a lot of people. We had fire conditions we hadn’t really experienced for a long time. A lot of people had never experienced that level of fire behavior. We had significant low moisture levels being recorded and then prolonged periods of heat, which dried everything out even more. These are conditions we are not likely to experience this summer given we have had some rain over winter and even into spring, although now it is starting to dry out.”

In an effort to bolster their preparedness, the RFS has invested in training,

acquired new equipment, including aircraft, and executed hazard reduction burns in critical areas whenever possible to mitigate risk.

“We are far more adaptable as a district now. We now know we can experience that level of fire, and we have a bit of a reference point. I think overall we are far more prepared, not just for another season like 2019 but just in general. A lot of people came together from a personal and volunteer level. From a strategic level, we’ve looked at some key areas and undertaken hazard reduction when we can,” Roberts said.

The RFS has also streamlined its public messaging efforts by simplifying the fire danger rating system from seven

categories to four. The new system now encompasses moderate, high, extreme, and catastrophic, facilitating clearer and more concise communication to residents.

Local residents have been actively participating in workshops focused on creating firebreaks, maintaining safe zones around their properties, and devising effective evacuation plans.

The New South Wales Rural Fire Service (NSW RFS) has also organized “Get Ready Weekend” workshops to encourage property owners to prepare on September 15 & 16.

A recent survey undertaken by Victoria’s Country Fire Authority conducted in high risk areas found that many peo-

ple would wait for emergency services to tell them what to do during a bushfire. Nearly 30% said they would stay in their properties until they felt threatened and 14 % would stay and defend their properties.

Roberts said fire safety is a joint responsibility: “People need to stay vigilant and informed. Residents need to take responsibility for their properties, go through a bushfire survival plan. The RFS is there to help but cannot be everywhere at once.”

The RFS has been emphasising the significance of heeding evacuation orders and staying informed through official channels, such as the RFS website and local media.

Missing Wildlife Data Raises Concerns Over Developers and Koala Habitat

FROM PAGE 1

Cockatoos, Regent Honeyeaters, Powerful Owls, Grey-Headed Flying Foxes, Squirrel Gliders, Spotted-Tail Quolls, and, most notably, koalas.

“Wildlife rescue data is incredibly important as rescues predominantly occur in non-protected areas where wildlife are facing threats. With koalas, a lack of habitat forces them to cross roads, and a lack of habitat connectivity means they are exposed to attacks by dogs. All this stress also leads to disease,” Stephanie Carrick from the Sydney Koala Basin Network said.

“Without these records being in BioNet, it is not possible to properly assess the full and potential impact of land-clearing and development in sensitive areas,” she said.

Philpott said the collected data was critical to enable informed decision making about future developments in areas crucial to koala survival.

The missing data raises new questions about previously approved developments which relied upon the inaccurate and misleading BioNet data. A recently approved development at Kurrajong – known as the “Bark Park”, relied partly on the inaccurate BioNet

data as part of its Koala Assessment Report, a prerequisite for its Development Application. It concluded that the site is “highly unlikely to support the koala for breeding or foraging purposes.” But Philpott disagrees saying the site was very likely to have supported koalas.

Koalas have also been sighted on a bush block slated for a 37 lot development on Kurrajong Road, Kurrajong. The Land and Environment Court (LEC) controversially approved the PRJM Pty Ltd development despite significant community and council objections. Residents say in the past five years – since the LEC ruling – there have been an increasing number of koala sightings on the 8 acre block as they search for habitat lost in surrounding areas.

“I am very unhappy about the fact that this very important data around threatened species is not being entered,” NSW Environment Minister Penny Sharpe said.

“I was surprised and shocked to learn about it and I’ve asked my department for immediate information about how we’re going to upgrade this.It’s fundamental to the planning system and it’s fundamental to how we manage threatened species in this state,” she said.

Missing Wildlife Data Raises Concerns Over Developers and Koala Habitat

Rural Fire Service Blaxland team.

Hawkesbury Remakery finds a new home, and discovers old charm

After uncertainty following their Loder House exit, Liz Germani and her Remakery community have found a new home, which comes complete with historic surprises.

By Rosalind Chia Davis

The last time the Post caught up with Hawkesbury Remakery founder Liz Germani, she and her loyal volunteer team were packing up the Loder House site, with no confirmed retail and workshop premises to call their new home.

As it turns out, as a Loder House door closes, another opens. In this case, the doors are of the automatic sort; a remnant of the St George Bank branch which once occupied the same shop space.

Officially launching next month, the Hawkesbury Remakery has already reopened for trade at 160 George Street, Windsor, which is situated only a short stroll down Windsor Mall from the previous site. The new retail space was secured after complex negotiations with the site owner, thanks to Liz’s tenacious grip on her vision for a Hawkesbury Remakery which stands the test of time.

The new space, once the 1940s home of a local favourite haunt, George’s Café, needed significant remodelling, including the surprisingly hazardous removal of gas-powered security screening and other weighty fixtures which previously comprised the bank branch, which closed its doors in 2017.

But all the hard work has not gone without ample reward.

Despite the number of years a bank occupied the space with an extensive 1990s fit-out, the Remakery team were delighted to discover the original George’s Café tiling design, lying, undamaged, beneath the bank’s flooring. Bringing with it a most fitting old-world charm, the new Remakery’s gallery floor and warren-like array of “back” rooms are resplendent once again with revamped life that only the Hawkesbury Remakery could have inspired, and what’s more, they’re perfect for the workshops and freeform social connection the Remakery has become famous for. Once resonant with early 1940s wedding receptions and lunchtime chatter, the public may now tread the same floor as the George’s Café customers.

Hilariously, this same floor made the news in 1945 when a Mr Cleasby walked into the café with a Mr Bedwell and two other “Air Force Men”, tied a dog to a table, fed it and did not clean up after the dog, who was reported to have “made a mess on the floor”. Being sure to spill some sauce on multiple other customers’ dresses to add to their misadventure count for the day, Cleasby and Bedwell left in a hurry after

Bedwell assaulted Paul George, the café owner, and destroyed crockery. Walking hurriedly down Bridge Street to escape notice, Cleasby and Bedwell were indeed noticed by a Sgt. Jorgensen with a keen eye for the guiltiest of gaits. He caught, questioned and arrested them. Perhaps it’s a cautionary tale for any visitors with designs on making a mess on the Remakery floor.

Liz says the Remakery’s new home has inspired new energy, not only for the team’s fresh displays of re-imagined artworks and one-off craft pieces, but for the team itself. With a diverse assortment of personalities, ages, backgrounds and stories, Liz says that the human element of the Hawkesbury Remakery is the most precious treasure of all, with its social impact reaching further than even

she had originally anticipated.

Liz explains, “Everyone has valuable skills to offer. If there’s any place where you’re unsure about what you have to offer, or if you’re not someone who normally steps forward, the Remakery would be the place where you can come and see what you could learn about yourself. Together we can learn what you have to offer. That’s how we become stronger. It’s also about claiming our place; showing just how much everyone’s getting from their involvement with the Remakery.”

The Hawkesbury Remakery represents over 80 local “makers”, whose works are largely comprised of donated, found and repurposed materials, achieving environmental and social impact aims in a purpose-led social enterprise structure. Its outreach programs contin-

ue to benefit bushfire and flood affected communities across the Hawkesbury, and revenue raised through retail sales in the shop benefit the artists and craftspeople behind the creations sold, as well as funding the continued facilitation of Hawkesbury Remakery programs such as Craft and Connect.

Hawkesbury Remakery

160 George Street, Windsor

Open Wednesday to Sunday, 10am to 3pm.

Stay up to date with their news and events by following their Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/hawkesburyRemakery

“Craft and Connect by Hawkesbury Remakery” Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/ groups/1148411895612112/

Ask Enid ...Do you have a question for Enid?

‘Social issues simplified’.

Dear OCD Parent,

The bitching about the politics of parental car parking and the primary pick up line is quite a recent social conundrum, yet one that I am not surprised to see appear across my desk. Until recently, in fact before Generation X became parents, nobody really gave a toss about these things because they had bigger problems to contend with. Concerns such as the impending Cold War.

Of course, back in my day we had to walk across frozen lakes wearing burlap sacks and Weetbix boxes on our feet for shoes, to get to school. Occasionally we would take a detour into the bush to poke a dead body with a stick, but those were far simpler times.

A lot of sensible folk live by the proverb “If you can’t beat them, join them.” If your adversaries are stronger than you, which I suspect they are, sign up for membership. Join in the chaos!

Do some persistent horn leaning while sitting in the pick-up line. Unwind your window to loudly beseech the unfairness of it all. Throw your takeaway coffee cup at the lolly-pop lady. Get out of your car and take photos of offending parents, load them all up to a local Facebook community page and accompany the images with scathing commentary. And if you are feeling particularly spiteful, add an outfit rating for each School Mum. If you are going to be judgemental,do it loud and clear! You could even develop a criteria scale with all that extra time you have, sitting in your car.

If it is drop off time, turn your car

radio up full blast and treat the waiting crowds to the rambling tones of Ray Hadley in the morning, making sure that everyone starts the day subliminally on edge, and with an unusual urge to write to the local member about just how the school pick up and drop off zones have become a lawless battlefield and there is a need for urgent funding so teachers on duty can be equipped with stun guns for when little Felicity’s Mum just needs a few minutes to talk about her diorama grade. A diorama that Felicity’s Mum spent 8 hours working on and had to go to two different Spotlight’s to find the right peach coloured pom poms and a 13 out of 20 is not an accurate reflection on the effort she has put in….

You can do that. If you like.

However, the only real way to address your concerns and quell your anxiety

without being labelled a “bothersome” parent, is to gracefully bow out of all proceedings.

Issue your children with a bus pass which are free unless you live closer than 1.6 kilometres as the crow flies from the school, which if indeed is the case, yes. I am totally judging you for not making them walk.

Instead of feeling anxious everyday by the drama caused by inconsiderate people ignoring all procedures and rules, invest your emotional energy into catching up on the latest hi-jinx from the dysfunctional Forrester Family and the rest of the Bold and The Beautiful Gang.

I bet Sally Spectra would never have put up with disobedient, renegade, school pick up line outlaws. Not for a second.

As Always Enid.

Co-founder Liz Germani, pictured during the move to the new site. [Photo: Rosalind Chia Davis]

The extraordinary life of Richmond’s famous horse-thief honoured

In tribute to Australia’s rich convict history, the renowned Blue Plaque Program has unveiled a commemorative marker at the Durham Bowes homestead in Hawkesbury, linking it forever with the extraordinary life of Margaret Catchpole, horse-thief, convict and writer.

This initiative aims not only to honour Catchpole’s legacy but also to invigorate local heritage and culture by shedding light on pivotal historical figures and their connections to the land.

Owned by Penny Sharpe and her mother, Robyn, the Durham Bowes homestead is a living piece of history that stands as a testament to the experiences of those who shaped Australia’s early colonial era. The Blue Plaque was welcomed by the Sharpe family, who now serve as custodians of the sole surviving residence in Australia where Margaret Catchpole once served as a nurse to the Dight family.

The historical significance of Durham Bowes has also been recognised through a $150,000 Caring for State Heritage grant from the New South Wales Government. This financial aid will support crucial preservation efforts for the state-listed home, aiding in its restoration and maintenance.

Penny Sharpe expressed her gratitude and said Margaret Catchpole’s impact on Australia’s literary and historical landscape cannot be overstated.

“Margaret Catchpole’s letters to her family and friends in England are a rare insight of a female convict in the early colony. The letters were treasured and preserved by the Cobbold family and provide a portrayal of her life, particularly on the upper reach of the Hawkesbury River,” Penny said.

“The Blue Plaques program has offered us the opportunity to commemorate the remarkable Margaret Catchpole as owners of the only surviving homestead in Australia where she was in service as nurse to the Dight family,” she said.

Robyn Sharpe echoed her daughter’s sentiments, adding, “We are appreciative of the NSW Government’s recognition of our 47 years of dedicated custodianship, in providing funding to help with essential conservation works through the Caring for State Heritage Grants program.”

The conservation efforts will be spearheaded by Jyoti Somerville, Senior Associate at GML Heritage, and executed by the specialized expertise of the

Sydney Restoration Company. The scope of the project includes addressing rising damp, repairing original brickwork, and applying sacrificial renders to both internal and external walls.

The Blue Plaque Program, since its inception in 2021, has seen the unveiling of thirty-five plaques commemorating diverse individuals who have left an indelible mark on Australia’s history. From civil rights advocate Dr. Charles Perkins to renowned authors like Patrick White and Ethel Turner, these markers stand as tributes to the nation’s achievements and contributions.

As a permanent marker installed in public spaces, the blue plaque serves to immortalise the connection between a famous figure, event, or location.

Margaret Catchpole’s life journey began in Suffolk, England, where she worked as a servant before being convicted of horse theft and later escaping from the Suffolk County Gaol. Transported to New South Wales in 1801, she took on roles ranging from cook to nurse and midwife. Her letters provided the foundation for Richard Cobbold’s partially fictionalised account, “The History of Margaret Catchpole, a Suffolk Girl,” immortalising her experiences during

the early convict period and becoming a vital literary testament of Australia’s history. Events she wrote about included the 1809 Hawkesbury River Floods noting: ‘the highest that was ever noun [known] … it went over the topes of the housen and many poor Cratuers [creatures] Crying out for marcey’.

Heritage at Crossroads: Unearthed 1820 Macquarie Letter Sparks Controversy Over Road’s Fate

The discovery of a letter from renowned road builder and explorer William Cox to Governor Lachlan Macquarie has shed new light on the historical importance of Richmond’s historic Durham Bowes property and surrounds. This significant find identifies the area as part of the New South Wales first-ever stock route, heightening concerns about the Minns’ government’s plans to construct a road next to the historic home and through the historic site as part of the third river crossing at Richmond.

The letter was unearthed from the Kingswood Archives by Durham Bowes’ current owners, Penny and Robyn Sharpe. It brings to the fore the pivotal role Durham Bowes played in the early colonial era. Dated November 12, 1820, the letter highlights Cox’s efforts to extend the stock route from Richmond Road (also built by Cox) to the road on the west side of the river that led to Howes track (Putty Road) . This route allowed cattle to traverse from the Hunter Valley, cross the river via a punt, rest at Ham Common adjacent to Durham Bowes (owned by early settler John Dight), and then continue to Sydney to cater to the burgeoning population’s needs.

Historian Jan Barkley-Jack said that, “so significant is the heritage of Durham Bowes, the NSW State Heritage Register, has elevated it to being not just of state importance but as having “outstanding factors [which] contribute to the exceptionally high significance of this item of National heritage.”

If the bridge goes ahead as planned, it won’t be the first time significant heritage considerations have been ignored to build infrastructure projects in the Hawkesbury. Historic Windsor bridge was demolished and delisted from the state heritage register and Australia’s oldest public square, Thompson Square was bastardised when the former state government built the new Windsor bridge overriding heritage considerations.

Cox writes in the letter: “Anderson is going on well with the Road party. We began at this side of the River where the

Punt is to be fixed and on Completing the Road from thence to the Common by Mr Dight’s House. This is what Mr Meehan first Marked and will be the great thoroughfare for what Cattle is removed between this & Newcastle (in Mr Howes track) and that is bought to the Capital, at Mr Dight’s House they are on the Common & will get onto the Richmond Road without driving through the Village of Richmond at all…”

The state government has plans to construct a road through the site, to connect to the planned third crossing at Richmond. Yet despite the government’s claims that this route minimally impacts heritage, no comprehensive Statement of Heritage Impact has been undertaken

The area which includes Durham Bowes, Hobartville and St Peter’s church, are all State heritage listed properties with considerable historical significance. While the state government cites heritage concerns in other cases, such as the nearby local heritage listed Bronte House, the same level of concern has not been demonstrated for the State

heritage listed Durham Bowes. The proposed “Preferred Option” by Transport for NSW is set to significantly widen the road thoroughfare of Inalls Lane (which lies next to Durham Bowes), significantly increasing traffic flow including heavy vehicles and diverting the road through the historical area.

Penny Sharpe argues that Transport for NSW has sidestepped its responsibilities outlined in the Burra Charter, which outlines Australia’s cultural heritage conservation standards.

“This neglect jeopardises the 1820 road, an integral part of Governor Macquarie’s “Great Roads” network built by William Cox just five years after the Blue Mountains road. This historic road holds exceptional significance and potential for preserving vital archaeology from the colonial and convict eras,” Sharpe said.

Despite prior knowledge, Transport opted against adhering to the Burra Charter’s best practices, Sharpe said. They disregarded the requirement for a Statement of Heritage Impact (SoHI), es-

sential for identifying and assessing heritage items—both listed and unlisted—to mitigate potential impacts and inform decisions. This failure occurred despite their awareness of the 1820 road and its cultural importance before selecting the Preferred Option in June 2021.

Photo: Durham Bowes owner Penny Sharpe holding a plan from the Surveyor General’s Sketch Book c1828 from State Archives. It shows the road leading from the Hawkesbury River (at top) and running along the boundary of William Bowman’s grant to the Dight’s highland farm where the road curves around and meets what is now Castlereagh Road.

Late last year Transport for NSW said the “Preferred Option” would have less heritage impact than other routes even though it admitted not having investigated the heritage significance of the site through a “Statement of Heritage Impact”.

“The Strategic Heritage Impact Strategy recommends the route in the road corridor adjacent to your property because it has a reduced level of impact to listed heritage items and potential archaeological remains when compared to other routes. It also recommends that further investigation is required in the form of a non-Aboriginal archaeological impact assessment and Statement of heritage Impact for the areas that will be impacted by the route. This will allow Transport to understand the nature and extent of archaeological remains in the alignments, their potential significance , and the impacts of the proposal,” TNSW Senior project manager Tim Webster said in the letter dated 20th December 2022. The Sharpes said they have not been contacted by TNSW since.

Investigation works along the proposed new bridge route are well advanced. These include collecting traffic data, ground and geotechnical works, digging pits to test soil and pavement composition and the use of a barge and drill rig on the Hawkesbury River.

The full transcript of Governor Macquarie’s letter can be read at www. hawkesburypost.com.au

The Blue Plaque with Robyn Sharpe

Penny Sharpe from Durham Bowes

Defiant Labor councillors re-elect Liberal Hawkesbury mayor

Labor councillors have defied the wishes of their party to hand Hawkesbury City Council Liberal Mayor Sarah McMahon another year in the job.

The move has infuriated members of the community who are perplexed as to why Labor chose to hand power to their political rival and now want to know what deal has been struck.

Cr McMahon beat challenger Cr Nathan Zamprogno by seven votes to five, winning with the votes of our Liberal Councillors Conolly, Veiglm, Reardon and herself as well as Australian Labor Party Councillors Barry Calvert and Amanda Kotlash as well as conservative independent Cr Les Sheather.

Labor appeared to have the numbers to win the vote had Deputy Mayor Calvert nominated to stand. Cr McMahon has been the Liberal Party’s pick for the federal seat of Macquarie however she has lost twice to rival, Labor’s Susan Templeman at the last two elections. It is unclear whether she will have another tilt at Liberal Party pre-selection for the seat, a contest expected to be held before the end of the year.

“The true believers are horrified. We don’t understand how Barry and Amanda can keep voting for the Liberals in council against the party’s wishes. It certainly raises a lot of questions,” a Labor Party member, who wished to remain anonymous, told the Hawkesbury Post.

Members of the community also took to social media to express their disgust at the Labor Councillors with some calling for them to be expelled from the Labor Party.

“They must now be expelled from the Labor Party. Nothing less,” Colin Hawkins said.

“As McMahon is Susan Templeman’s direct political rival, voting for her is a kick in the teeth for Susan,” Jenny Lloyd said.

On August 28, the Windsor branch of the Australian Labor Party voted overwhelmingly to recommend its Crs Calvert and Kotlash, withhold any support for Cr McMahon at the mayoral election.

ALP members in the Hawkesbury are becoming increasingly angered at the highly unusual support by the Labor councilors for the four strong Liberal Party block of councillors, that also includes Crs Patrick Conolly, Paul Veigel and Jill Reardon.

The deal between the Liberal and Labor councillors will see Cr Calvert keep his job as deputy mayor, which pays him an extra $10,000 on top of his $26,000. Cr Nathan Zamprogno who was recently kicked out of the Liberal Party following a complaint by Cr McMahon, was also defeated for the position of Deputy Mayor 7-5 as part of the Liberal/ Labor deal.

Cr McMahon will hold office until the next council elections on September 14, 2024, due to the one year delay in the last council elections.

Is Hawkesbury Council’s new draft media policy trying to censor the press?

The Hawkesbury City Council (HCC) has positioned itself as the second western Sydney council bidding to assert control over the media and public discussion by proposing a contentious media engagement strategy.

This strategy has raised concerns, as it empowers the council to cherry-pick the media organisations it interacts with, potentially leading to a skewed narrative.

The Local & Independent News Association (LINA), a national industry group representing independent news publishers, has strongly urged Hawkesbury City Council (HCC) to revise its media policy. LINA wants the policy to align with established industry benchmarks and State government guidelines, ensuring transparency and impartiality in media interactions.

In a formal submission to the HCC, LINA Executive Director, Claire Stutchbery, cautioned that the draft policy steps outside recommended practices from both the Office for Local Government and industry experts in media engagement.

“The Hawkesbury City Council’s Draft Media Policy steps well beyond best practice advice from the Office for Local Government and industry on engaging with media,” Stutchbery warned.

The submission comes following recent controversies surrounding the media policy of the neighbouring Hill Shire Council (HSC) - which is subject of an ongoing corruption probe.. HSC has drawn sharp criticism from

residents who believe its move to block online criticism is anti-democratic. Under the policy any comments of a political or partisanship nature, opinion or platform” will be deleted or hidden from their social media pages. LINA’s submission argues that the Hawkesbury City Council’s media policy should maintain transparency, equity, and a platform for open dialogue.

In its submission LINA said that the council’s intention to selectively interact with media outlets exceeds established industry norms. This approach, the association suggests, not only deviates significantly from industry standards but also exposes the council to potential allegations of discretionary abuse.

“Rather than inventing its own rules around media engagement and investing resources determining which media individual Council staff want to recognise, it would be more efficient to draw on the industry standards of the Journalist Code of Ethics and/or LINA’s Editorial Standards tailored for small publishers, which keeps the door open for emerging news services to engage with Council, Stutchbery said

“These national standards exist to mitigate subjective media engagement or lack thereof in local areas, and to support strong public interest journalism from local news services,” she said.

The association, which represents 62 digital news publishers with 86 mastheads across Australia, including the Hawkesbury Post and The Hills

to Hawkesbury Community News, stressed the vital role played by local news organizations in upholding grassroots democracy and fostering social cohesion.

Citing the research of award winning journalist, Penny Abernathy, LINA underscored how local journalists play a pivotal role in covering significant events and meetings that contribute to community integration and informed decision-making.

While acknowledging the council’s intent to manage its resources effectively and manage reputational risk, LINA expressed concern about certain elements within the Draft Media Policy. Specifically, LINA raises questions about the subjective application of certain clauses and recommends a transparent and standardized approach to media engagement.

The Hawkesbury Post has also made a submission to the draft policy.

LINA has also encouraged the council to harness the unique relationship that local news services share with their communities, advocating for collaborative editorial and advertising partnerships that can contribute to the enrichment of the local media ecosystem.

The draft media policy can be viewed here: https://www.yourhawkesbury-yoursay.com.au/draft-media-policy-on-exhibition

A spokesperson for HCC said all responses will be made public when the draft policy returns to Council for consideration, “at a date to be determined”.

The Hawkesbury City Council’s Draft Media Policy is broadly criticised

Ratepayers to Foot the Bill for Councillor Squabbling

Hawkesbury Council General Manager

Liz Richardson has branded relationships between popularly elected councillors as ”fractured”. In an email to all 12 HCC councillors, Richardson explained she planned to engage outside consultants to try and fix the situation. s.

Since the email was sent in May, there has been a public attack by Mayor Sarah McMahon on at least three councillors and she has successfully campaigned for the Liberal Party to suspend Councillor Nathan Zamporgno from the organisation where she sits on the NSW State Executive. Cr Zamprogno has branded McMahon a bully and Cr McMahon has claimed Cr.Zamprogno is a thief.

“I am aware of the further decline in relationships between councillors over the last few days. I have serious concerns about the capacity of this council to operate effectively where personal relationships have become so fractured that communication cannot be maintained,”

Ms Richardson said in an email dated 19 May, 2023 obtained by the Hawkesbury Post under state government GIPA transparency legislation.

“In the same way that I hold expectations of our staff, I think the community expects that its elected representatives would be able to conduct themselves in a way (sic) that is respectful and is considerate of each others’ wellbeing,” Richardson said.

She noted that a planned roundtable session was unlikely to be particularly productive. Hence, I will cancel it. Although you may have different values and beliefs, there is no question in my mind that each Councillor is here to serve the Hawkesbury community and only wants the very best for it.

“The reality is that we have 16 months left of this term of council, and I think it would be both a more productive and pleasant environment for all of us if we can work constructively together on the

90% of things we all broadly agree on, rather than being tied up in conflict on the matters we don’t.

“With this in mind, I have today reached out to a specialist consulting firm who have worked productively with other councils in resolving difficult conflict and conduct issues. I will be back to touch with more detail on this, but would appreciate your participation and an open mind moving forward,” she said.

Ms Richardson’s comments stand in stark contrast to those made by Cr. McMahon as part of a 1,500 word late-night post on the Mayor’s Facebook page last week, where she attacked three fellow councilors independents Nathan Zamprohno, Mary Lyons-Buckett and Eddie Dogramaci.

“In fact, here at Hawkesbury City Council, we have a strong and united majority, focused on community outcomes,” Cr McMahon said.

Cr Mary Lyons-Buckett said: “I won’t

comment at this stage because we have not yet completed the process.” She added “we can always improve on what we do!”

A request to HCC for information on questions about the engagement of consultants and the process – at ratepayers expense – was met with no comment.

In granting access to the information, HCC Governance Manager Charles McElroy said

“When considering the request, I first acknowledged the objectives of the GIPA Act, and the position outlined in Section 12 of the Act, which states that:

(1) There is a general public interest in favour of the disclosure of information.

It’s the second time in recent months that the Hawkesbury Post has had to resort to costly and time consuming GIPA applications. These have been made to access information that Ms Richardson’s staff have refused to give in the normal course of media inquiries.

Mayor behind Councillor’s expulsion from Liberal Party

The NSW Division of the Liberal Party has handed long-time Hawkesbury Councillor Nathan Zamprogno a threeyear suspension from the party, amidst growing tension in the council.

The reason he was suspended included complaints that he would not support Liberal backed motions in favour of developers, land clearing or infrastructure that affected heritage sites – and that he did not vote for Labor’s Barry Calvert for deputy mayor.

The motion to remove Cr Zamprogno from the Liberal Party was championed by Hawkesbury Mayor Sarah McMahon, and her predecessor, Cr Patrick Conolly, according to internal Liberal Party documents. The complaint cited his refusal to align with pro-development and land-clearing agendas as reasons for his expulsion.

In a strongly worded media statement released August 5, Cr Zamprogno expressed his deep concern over the grounds on which he was ousted. He said he was troubled that the evidence tendered by Cr McMahon “as justifications for my expulsion from the Party included statements I have made in the Chamber and elsewhere about planning matters before Council, where Councillors should enjoy a free vote to judge matters on their merits, without threat of punishment.”

“This includes the Seniors Living Development in Vincents Road at Kurrajong [Tallowood], a Planning Proposal brought to the chamber by Matthew Bennett and his family. Clr McMahon had already declared a significant pecuniary interest in that matter, and two other Liberals recused themselves,” Cr Zamprogno said.

“Where I dissented from my Liberal colleagues in the Council Chamber, it has always been in the defence of sound Liberal principles. When three out of the four Liberals voted to see the Wilcox house and farm demolished as part of the Grose River Bridge project, I was prepared to defend that family’s property rights.”

“I was the only Liberal opposed to the adoption of the disastrous Rural Boundary Clearing Code. I believed that being a good Conservative is entirely compatible with being a good Conservationist, and that we should look after the environment. There is now evidence that developers are indeed now using the Code to clear-fell lands for reasons other than management of bushfire risk, placing Koala habitats at risk.”

“I was the only Liberal to defend the

retention of Council’s Heritage Committee, and the others were hell-bent on dissolving it. I believed a majority of voters, including Liberals, agreed with me about the importance of our local heritage,” he said.

On August 25, Cr Zamprogno faced a Liberal Party committee headed by Jason Falinski, the Liberal Party President who lost the once safe Liberal Federal seat of Mackellar in the 2022 election to independent Sophie Scamps. During the committee meeting, Cr Zamprogno vehemently contested McMahon and Conolly’s assertions, labeling them as false claims in their bid to remove him from the party. Lawyers who have sighted the complaint and a letter from Kurrajong, Liberal President Reg Court said that many of the claims made against Cr Zamprogno are potentially defamatory.

Cr Zamprogno said that “sadly a lack of leadership has created a toxic tone in our Chamber and in the Macquarie

electorate Liberal branches.”

Cr Zamprogno has received dozens of messages of support on social media as well as “considerable” messages of private support, he told the Hawkesbury Post.

“I really believe that the local govt is about local issues and representatives. Not about party factions. I will only ever support independents. Appalled by both Lib and Lab. Parties in Hawkesbury. Lost my support,” Helen Makay wrote on Facebook, reflecting a number of comments.

The Mayor of neighbouring Hills Council, Liberal Peter Gangemi also issued a public message of support for Cr Zamprogno.

“I’m very sorry to hear this news, Councillor Nathan Zamprogno. The Liberal Party was stronger and better for having you in it. You are a very hard working and well respected Councillor in the community, keep doing all the good

you can,” Dr Gangemi said. He noted that three other Liberal Councillors have also been pushed out of their positions in the Blue Mountains as part of factional ructions. The Liberal Party was unable to man all its booths in the March 2023 State election for the first time.

“It seems clear that Cr McMahon’s motivation was in part to pre-emptively assassinate a rival,” Cr Zamprogno said.

Cr McMahon is the Liberal Party’s twice failed candidate for the federal seat of Macquarie. At the last election Macquarie went from the most marginal seat in the country to a safe Labor seat. The swing of 7.58% to Labor in Macquarie was double the national swing against the Liberals, and the worst swing in any must-win marginal seat in NSW.

Cr McMahon has refused to answer any questions from the Hawkesbury Post.

Nathan Zamprogno targeted by Mayor McMahon

Have Your Say On Flood Insurance

Hawkesbury residents are urged to voice their experiences in a national inquiry scrutinising the insurance industry’s response to the 2022 major floods. Federal Member for Macquarie, Susan Templeman is part of the House Standing Committee on Economics leading the inquiry and has launched an online survey to gather input from affected residents.

“The Hawkesbury has been hit hard by floods and the impact of these events continue to reverberate throughout the community and the current insurance arrangements have not served everyone well,” Templeman said.

Ms Templeman says the scope of the inquiry will cover affordability of insurance cover, timeframes and obstacles to resolving claims, communication with claimants, effectiveness of internal dispute resolution processes, and how insurance companies prepare for future major floods.

“We’re looking at this issue from all angles. After floods we want people to be able to access the support they need to rebuild their lives and they can’t do that if they are still waiting for insurance claims to be settled.”

“Whatever your experience was, good, bad, easy or frustrating, we want to hear about it so we can make sure the system is working for our communities,” she said.

The inquiry will address insurance cover affordability, claims resolution obstacles, communication with claimants, dispute resolution processes, and insurers’ readiness for future floods.

Residents are invited to participate in the online survey and submit their feedback addressing the Terms of Reference until October 31, 2023. Additional information is available on the inquiry’s website.

The online survey can be found on the Australian Parliament House website www.aph.gov.au. The committee will also accept submissions that address the Terms of Reference until 31 October 2023.

Residents can apply for PFAS soil testing after Defence Department acknowledges spread

Richmond Residents can apply for soil testing for PFAS Contamination following Defence Department acknowledgment of spread.

Richmond residents will be able to apply to have their soil tested for poisonous PFAS chemicals after the Defence Department finally admitted that flooding in recent years has seen the so-called “forever” chemicals spread over a larger area.

The result was a rare concession from the Department of Defence which held a briefing on the chemicals in Richmond this week organised by Federal Member for Macquarie Susan Templeman, who is one of the few local politicians showing concern about the issue. Defence has known about the dangers of PFAS using its fire firefighting foams for decades, before it stopped last decade.

Asked if there had been any research on the effects of PFAS moving from property to property due to the floods, a Defence remediation contractor Steve Cornish answered “no.”

“If someone wants their property test-

ed they can put in a request to Defence and we can definitely take those requests on a case by case basis”, he added.

At times the information presented in the briefing was confusing. There were concerns at the evening briefing – attended by about 100 residents – that there was still not enough information or testing on PFAS chemicals in the district.

They were also told that Sydney Water – which was a notable absentee from the meeting – has not tested for PFAS in the local water supply since 2019.

Assistant Defence Minister Matt Thistlethwaite apologised to residents;

“The first thing I want to do is to say sorry to you, the local residents, for the inconvenience and disruption that has been caused to your lives from PFAS contamination in the local community. We know that PFAS is the forever chemical and it takes a long time to break down in the environment, thankfully we are not using it anymore.”

However, the meeting heard that the health implications of PFAS were less well known. EPA Unit Head Operations

Corrie Ford said that the health advice varied depending on where people were located.

“Basically the NSW government has taken the precautionary principle that we just don’t know enough about PFAS and its effects on the human body so the government has taken (the view)…that it is better to try and reduce your exposure to PFAS. The main way that PFAS gets into the human body is via the consumption of food or by drinking water, so it’s mainly just to try limit people’s exposure,” Ford said.

Thistlethwaite told the Hawkesbury Post that people who owned PFAS contaminated land should not consume the produce from that land. However, he added that; “the health advice was that it was still safe to sell produce that had come from such lands into the market and the government accepts the advice that has been prepared by the Department of Health and the Environmental protection Authority.”

“…At the moment there is no plan to change that health advice because that

is considered the best advice that the government has at the moment,” he said. Defence said that their investigations showed that PFAS mainly moves off the base through surface water drains to the east of the base and that surface water was one of the greatest sources of PFAS contamination. PFAS in surface water and soil varied with some new and maximum levels detected.

However, investigations had also identified elevated PFAS concentrations in groundwater on the northern boundary of the base, possibly due to heavy and prolonged rainfall. PFAS in ground water above historic levels were also identified between the Sewage Treatment Plant and Bakers Lagoon.

Defence has done testing at a series of sites further afield from the bases and found elevated levels of PFAS, yet there has been no thorough testing of the area since 2019. Thistlethwaithe said more general testing outside the study area would only be undertaken if there was evidence that the plume had moved and currently there was no such evidence.

Susan Templeman MP, Chair of the House Standing Committee on Economics, Dr Daniel Mulino MP and Committee member Shayne Neumann MP. Like Susan, Shayne’s community west of Brisbane was hit hard by floods in 2022.

Residents can apply for PFAS soil testing after Defence Department acknowledges spread

REGENERATING THE LOWLANDS

Hawkesbury Appreciation

The sun is out, and Spring has sprung. I love it.

We’ve been warned of an upcoming hot summer, but I don’t care. I know our area cops it when it comes to high temperatures, and I can already feel myself bracing for what’s ahead. But let’s enjoy Spring while it’s here…as well as…start to put in some measures to help look after our little part of the world.

And yes, you can call me Darryl Kerrigan but I love the Hawkesbury—planes flying over and all. Find me another LGA where it’s so easy to venture out with a buddy, a bike, a dog, a boat or whatever…to enjoy our beautiful semi-rural surrounds. We are so close to Sydney and yet we have turf farms, cattle farms, horse farms, chicken farms, veggie growers and the like… all peppered around 5 historical towns.

The Hawkesbury is truly a little slice of heaven.

Reflecting on the seasons that have already past, I think it’s Late Autumn that is my favourite time of year for our area. I have a little farm in The Richmond Lowlands and as the sun comes down around that 5:30/6 o’ clock mark, I love watching the Blue Mountains transition into a silhouette. By the end of May, it’s the leaves that I love most. They’ve mostly fallen from our small row of London Plane trees, which makes for a fantastic crunching sound as we walk through our paddocks.

And so this is actually where I would like to begin…in one of our paddocks…

Our farm is a small 13-acre horse farm and part of our property has six separate ½ acre holding paddocks. Sadly, over the years I have slowly watched them resemble concrete more than the green pasture that they once were. The cause…a combination of always keeping horses in them (i.e. never truly having a fallow period) and enduring the weight of however many cubic tonnes of water that sat on the land during the floods. What we are now left with isseriously compacted soil. So this year, I couldn’t help but look at our farm and wonder

what we could do to help this once lush alluvial landscape.

I’m not sure if we’re the only kids on the block that have this problem, so I thought it helpful to share our journey—successes and not—of how we are starting to make a difference in regenerating our land. I also think it’s possible to not only repair the damages from the past, but also prepare for the harsh times ahead.

So with a simple rake and a burning desire to make good use of our Autumn leaves, I started my journey back in May to try my hand at improving our soil. My enthusiasm was met with A LOT scepti-

cism, so to get my family on board I only chose one of the six ½ acre paddocks to play with. (Which I highly recommend to anyone looking to do a project like this. Start small to see what works.) And luckily, my trial paddock project worked! So voilá…I now had a live showcase of what impact a little bit of TLC can do for our soil. The best part, everyone is now on board to do the whole farm.

Notes to share so far:

• Raking and setting aside all your leaves to make a leaf mulch will bear fruit… but be patient…it will take more than a year.

Richmond Lowlands Drain Disaster Looms: Residents Demand Answers

Plans to repair the extensive systems of drains that operate underneath the Richmond Lowlands remain a mystery, 18 months after promises by Hawkesbury City Council (HCC) to begin fixing the problems that have festered for decades.

The drains are essential infrastructure that are needed to allow water from flooding to run off safely and in a timely manner. Their failure during the recent flood has impacted local farmers and turf farmers to the tune of tens of millions of dollars.

In 2022, HCC engaged consultancy Molino Stewart to assess the current drainage system across the various properties, the outcome was supposed to be a plan for each property that Council would approve and allow works to be conducted with heights specified and other critical information.

The consultants have been back and forth with the council but the report was only finalised about a month ago, people familiar with the process told the Hawkesbury Post.

Yet to date, nothing has eventuated and HCC would not answer detailed questions from the Hawkesbury Post. Nor would the Council explain just how badly the drains are in need of repair and what the cost will be to ratepayers.

Other questions they would not answer included: what needed to be done, how long the consultant has been engaged for and what is the cost, so far, to ratepayers.

In fact, at a meeting held by HCC and its consultant April last year it was apparent that it does not even know exactly where the drains are located.

“We were asked to draw lines on a map where we though the drains were on our properties. It appeared

council didnt even know where the drains were located,” one local landowner who asked not to be named told the Hawkesbury Post

At one stage HCC went cap in hand to the state government after the March 2022 flood, many months after a sluice drain was broken, it was revealed at the meeting last year.

HCC delays have already resulted in a major disaster in the Hawkesbury River with a collapse of a drain cousin the subsequent collapse of Cornwallis Road. The saga has dragged on for more than 800 days..

Neither level of government will reveal the cost of the project although previous estimates have been between $20 million-$40 million. State government representatives have also refused to show affected

• Sowing a winter seed mix in Autumn to create a cover crop for those dry cold Winter months proved to be gold. This can be done at the end of Spring, too, with the right seeds, to prepare for Summer.

• Collecting our horse manure and grass clippings has become the start of a great compost that I can’t wait to use in a few months’ time.

• To aerate the soil, I included some brassicas like radish and turnips in my seed mix. These did an excellent job in creating space underneath the ground without having to use any heavy equipment. (i.e. many dollars saved)

• Biggest take away- let the seeds do the work for you. Choose a good mix of legumes, grasses, cereals and brassicas and you’ll get life back into your soil.

When I compare the soil from my trial paddock, I can already see and feel the difference in its texture to the other paddocks. (i.e. I can actually get the first third of a shovel into it fairly easily)

Considering this felt like concrete before, I am pleased. My goal, though, is to get my soil looking like chocolate cake—soft, dark and spongey. We’re not there yet but I can tell we’re heading in the right direction. Looking forward to our next check in.

All the best,

C.W.McGregor

landowners plans for independent review or costings, claiming this may affect the tender process.

The HCC has also claimed that the March 2021 flood caused the initial collapse. But it was the collapse of a poorly maintained council drain, that ran from the Richmond Lowlands into the river, that caused the river bank to collapse during the flood. This quickly expanded into a small “bay”. Subsequent floods, Council delays and then a drain patch up, eventually saw an expanded canyon and an 180-metre section of Cornwallis Road lost.

Locals fear that the lack of action on the other drains in the Lowlands are another disaster – or possibly more – waiting to happen.

Dave Muscat from Abulk Turf

eDNA testing confirms presence of platypus in Kurrajong and Bilpin

Recent lab results from an extensive eDNA testing campaign have confirmed the presence of Platypus in the wider Kurrajong and Bilpin areas. The community science initiative, organised with the support of the Hawkesbury Environment Network (HEN) and Dr. Michelle Ryan from the University of Western Sydney (UWS), aimed to locate Platypus habitats, especially in the aftermath of devastating fires and floods.

Last year, residents of Kurrajong and Bilpin joined forces to embark on a mission to determine the whereabouts of Platypus in the region. Dr. Michelle Ryan and her team provided 12 eDNA tests, covering sites from North Richmond to Berambing. These tests allowed community members living alongside creeks to collect water samples and contribute to the conservation efforts by identifying potential Platypus habitats.

Matilda Julian, who was involved in the study and is part of a local platypus advocacy group said she was delighted and surprised at the recent finding.

“People didn’t have a real sense that they are here right now. I tested the site

in Bilpin and was curious how far up they would travel. It was quite fascinating to find out that they would travel as far up as almost Bells Line of Road in Bilpin…It’s pretty exciting to know that at such a high elevation we have platypus, close to town, close to a main road,” Julian said.

“It gives the community something to identify with and a sense of responsibility and evidence that they are there rather than speculation,” she said. Platypus, a unique and elusive aquatic species, have long fascinated scientists and nature enthusiasts. They are a significant indicator of the health of our waterways and ecosystems.

The eDNA testing involved collecting water samples and analysing DNA particles shed by Platypus in the water through excretion, grooming, and foraging activities. The results unveiled an encouraging discovery, with 7 out of 12 tests returning positive for Platypus presence, effectively confirming their existence in those sites.

The 7 positive test sites include Bilpin along Upper Tootie Creek, as well as

Kurrajong Hills encompassing Blue Gum Creek and Little Island Creek. Additionally, Platypus were found to inhabit several sites along Little Wheeny Creek in Kurrajong.

However, researchers said that it is crucial to note that negative test results do not conclusively indicate the absence of Platypus; they merely signify that the animals were not present at that specific location within approximately the last 24 hours.

The study group shared some tips to protecting Platypus:

1. Use ‘open-topped’ yabby traps: In dams and creeks, opt for traps that do not completely enclose the top, as Platypus are known to visit these locations.

2. Secure your pump’s foot valve entry: Install a cage around the foot valve entry in your pump to prevent Platypus from swimming up and getting trapped.

3. Keep waterways litter-free: Platypus are particularly vulnerable to harmful items like fishing line, plastic bracelets, and other plastic

debris. Dispose of litter responsibly.

4. Fence off livestock from creek banks: Platypus prefer habitats with overhanging trees, branches, and stable banks for their burrows.

To further engage the community in Platypus conservation, two events have been planned for the future. On October 7, 2023, a Platypus spotting event will take place, inviting participants to observe these unique creatures in their natural habitat. Additionally, in March 2024, a Water Bug Day event is scheduled, where participants can learn to test their waterways for invertebrates, the primary food source for Platypus, to determine the suitability of the habitat.

Community members are encouraged to report any sightings of Platypus to the Australian Platypus Conservancy, as this information plays a vital role in ongoing research and conservation efforts.

For more information about Platypus and upcoming events, visit the Australian Platypus Conservancy’s website at https://platypus.asn.au/.

Bee Parasite Crisis Deepens in Hawkesbury Region

The Hawkesbury region is facing an escalating spring crisis with the relentless spread of the varroa mite, a bee parasite that attacks and feeds on honey bees.

Australia had enjoyed historical protection against the varroa mite, scientifically known as varroa destructor, primarily due to its geographical isolation, until the mite’s presence was confirmed at the Port of Newcastle just over a year ago.

There has been an expansion of the “red” eradication zone with local beekeepers now bracing themselves for the government-ordered euthanasia of their bee colonies. After red zones, which have a circumference of 10km there are purple surveillance zones with a 25km circumference where officials monitor and inspect managed and feral honey bees for incursions. And grey general emergency zones.

The NSW Department of Primary Industries (DPI) has been trying to prevent the mite from establishing a permanent foothold in the country by destroying infected hives. It has been struggling to manage the emergency as the mite has continued to spread with other states shutting their borders to bees that are regularly moved between farms. But many in the honey and crop pollination industries worth $14.2 billion annually believe this is impossible and want to halt the program of burning bee colonies.

Skye Gilmour, owner of Hawkesbury based Signature Farms, was shocked to discover that her bees are inside a red zone, which was initially designated around St Albans. She only became aware of the development when contact-

ed by the Hawkesbury Post.

“It’s devastating.The DPI hasn’t contacted me. I knew it was coming but it’s devastating,” Gilmour said.

“I’ll stop what I’m doing right now and go up to my hives. I’ll remove all the honey boxes that are full, so I don’t lose my honey harvest as well as my bees.”

Gilmour’s frustration echoes the sentiments of beekeepers and farmers both locally and across the state who are growing increasingly distressed by the government’s response. Calls for a comprehensive reassessment of the DPI’s response are growing throughout the community.

Dr. Shannon Mulholland, NSW DPI Deputy Incident Controller defended the approach:”The decision to pursue eradication is taken by industry partners, the Commonwealth, and the States and is based on the best science, data, and research available, as well as with the long-term future interests of Australia’s $14.2 billion honey and pollination-reliant industries in mind.”

In recent weeks the total number of infested premises has expanded to 250 across NSW, including a concerning detection at Vineyard within the Glenorie surveillance emergency (purple) zone. This discovery followed a mandatory 16-week alcohol wash conducted by a vigilant beekeeper, leading to an extension of the eradication emergency (red) zone into the Sydney Basin.

“NSW DPI remains focused on tracing and will begin surveillance efforts within 5km of the new infested premises,” Dr Mullholland said.

Industry sources said the DPI was struggling with a crisis that it was not resourced to deal with. Hive tests are taking at least a week, leaving too much scope for the parasites to spread ahead of new purple and red zones being designated.

In the past week a new red zones has been declared at Cuttabri, west of Narrabri, and the discovery of another infested premises at Blackwall in the Central Coast eradication emergency (red) zone, in addition to the Vineyard detection in the Glenorie surveillance emergency (purple) zone.

The parasites attach to bees, siphoning their vital fluids, ultimately leading to the demise of entire colonies. This not only endangers the honeybee population but also jeopardizes crop pollination.

Since its initial detection in Australia, the DPIs approach has encompassed an eradication program, quarantine protocols, surveillance measures, and educational campaigns targeting beekeepers as well as hive destruction and a ban inmoving any bees out of or through infected zones. In July, the government allocated additional funding of over $31 million to support beekeepers and industries affected by the parasite but there is a growing push in the industry to secure more compensation for the loss of essential business assets.

The timing of this crisis could not be worse, with farmers anxiously awaiting the impact of the bee eradication program on their spring crops, including fruits, vegetables, and nuts, all of which rely on honeybee pollination.

Skye Gilmore from Signature Farms Richmond

The presence of Platypus has been confirm in the wider Kurrajong and Bilpin areas

Kurmond Public School achieves 100% success in Premier’s Reading Challenge

In a testament to their love for literature, Kurmond Public School has triumphed in the Premier’s Reading Challenge for the second successive year. The Challenge is designed to ignite a passion for reading and encourage students to become readers and/or to read more.

For years, Kurmond Public School has championed the cause of nurturing young minds through the pages of books. However, in the past two years the school has achieved a flawless 100% success

rate in completing the Premier’s Reading Challenge, culminating just last week.

“I am so proud of our school at having achieved 100% of students completing the Premier’s Reading Challenge once again this year,” Principal Kurmond Public School, Patricia Beggs said.

“We are so grateful to have a wonderful teacher librarian, Mrs Allerton and a dedicated staff who encourage our students to read and develop a love of reading at every opportunity,” Beggs said.

During Book Week celebrations students brought to school their favourite book to share. Students and staff alike took “shelfies” photos of themselves showing off their favourite book in front of a bookshelf in the library.

Allerton said that through these events, the Kurmond PS endeavours to keep students’ love of reading alive. “From the enthusiasm shown among the students, it is easy to see that this dream is being achieved,” she said.

The Mayor’s campaign against a local charity worker and her withdrawn APVO

that Cr McMahon had inquired in an email dated June 21, 2018, about the process to ban a member of the public from entering the council chamber. “Can you please tell me what it takes to get a member of the public banned from entering the chamber?” she asked.

Subsequently, she continued to make unsupported claims, including one about Nicholson taking photographs of her car in the main street of Windsor. However, no evidence surfaced to substantiate these claims, McMahon has never offered any and Nicholson vehemently denied such actions in a sworn statement.

According to Michael Bradley, Managing Partner at Marque Lawyers, there is a low threshold for police to issue an interim APVO, often relying on the word of the complainant. He noted that police discretion is broad because the APVO is designed as an interim protective measure, with a low evidentiary threshold. Bradley noted that APVOs rely on the balance of probabilities, rather than any criminal standards.

“Things can arise where what they’ve been told isn’t true or is exaggerated but they’ve still done the right thing by issuing it because the backstop to that is it goes to court and can’t be maintained unless it’s properly substantiated,” Bradley said.

Surprisingly, the interim orders were

issued via fax from Parramatta Court, rather than the local Windsor Court. Cr McMahon justified this by claiming that the resident’s proximity to her residence caused her fear and risk of harm. Yet, Cr McMahon had moved into the neighborhood just the previous year, aware that Nicholson lived in the area.

Nicholson had previously lodged a formal Code of Conduct complaint against Cr McMahon, after an incident at a town meeting in Maraylya in August 2017. Nicholson said he witnessed Cr McMahon encouraging people to rabble-rouse councillors and staff at the meeting attended by McMahon’s political rival at the time, then Mayor Mary-Lyons Buckett. The incident resulted in the police being called.

Nicholson said that as well as the APVO threat, Cr McMahon and her partner, local property developer Matthew Bennett, also made verbal and written threats against him. One such threat came in the form of a Facebook message from Bennett, on September 9, 2018, in which he threatened Nicholson with legal action unless he removed online content within 10 minutes. The content referred to was a photo of Bennett’s car in Cr McMahon’s driveway, prior to them officially becoming a couple.

“You have 10 mins. Take it down or you will be bankrupted in legal cases for years ahead. It has been screenshot by so many people that defamation issues are now huge. My Lawyer is Sam

Delaney, a Partner at Corrs Chambers. Google him. He is contacting you at 9am tomorrow morning. No alcoholic local lawyers on my side. 10 minutes or you will be selling all your assets for legal costs,” Bennett warned in a Facebook Messenger message sent to Nicholson and seen by the Hawkesbury Post.

Nicholson says that he neither knew who took the photo, nor who posted it. He added that the threat was also received by others who Bennett clearly thought may have posted and while Cr McMahon was finalising her divorce.

The case dragged on - Nicholson believes deliberately by Cr McMahonfacing six adjournments before finally reaching Parramatta Court on December 16, 2020 Despite witnesses for the resident attending court, no witnesses were present for Cr McMahon, so it was adjourned.

At the final court date in June 2020 Cr McMahon failed to attend the hearing application and the provisional APVO was withdrawn by the police. The magistrate was highly critical of the lack of evidence supporting the case and the fact that it had proceeded as far as it did.

Despite this, Cr McMahon has continued to make false allegations against Nicholson on social media. In a recent post on the Mayor’s official rate-payer funded Facebook page on 18 August, she made a bizarre post, alleging the

theft of her garbage bins, insinuating a connection with Nicholson.

“Could that possibly be the same person that the NSW police helped me to put an interim APVO on for 12 months [due to her own delays] to stop him stalking and harassing me and my family?” she wrote. The furphy here is the interim APVO evaporated the minute police withdrew the claim. Effectively, Nicholson was found to be innocent. There is no record of the alleged APVO on a police check of the resident. There is no evidence that Nicholson “stalked” her. There is no evidence he has ever had anything to do with her family.

Under normal circumstances, police only withdraw APVO applications if the applicant dies, relocates interstate, or the applicant - in this case Cr McMahon - was found to have exaggerated the need for such orders.

“Apart from a small group of Liberal trolls I’ve had wonderful support from the community, including people I would never have thought cared. I’ve had people contact me regularly to see how I’m doing and others who helped with advice directly related to the case. They’ve made a huge difference and I’m eternally grateful for what they’ve done,” Nicholson said.

Cr McMahon refused to answer questions from the Hawkesbury Post. She continues to try and weaponise the Apprehended Violence Orders system, meant for real victims in need.

BUSINESS’ NIGHT

Scenes form 2022 gala event.

HOLLYWOOD has the Oscars and the music industry has the Grammys – but for Hawkesbury businesses, the annual night of nights is October 25 at Hawkesbury Race Club. That’s the date of the 2023 Hawkesbury Local Business Awards.

Precedent Productions Managing Director and Awards founder Steve Loe said: “There’s no doubt that local business owners and their staff work hard to provide the best possible service to their customers.

That’s why the annual Hawkesbury Local Business Awards presentation night is always such a popular event.

Total Hearing is the only family owned and independent hearing provider in the Hawkesbury providing the community with someone they can count on for services 5 days a week. We offer the community Hearing testing for children & adults, affordable hearing aids, ear cleaning and all your hearing accessories. providing services on behalf of DVA, HSP & NDIS

We pride ourselves on giving excellent service and looking after you is our priority! Winner ABIA Australian Beauty Industry Awards NSW Beauty/Salon Spa of the Year Winner ABIA Australian Beauty Industry Awards Australian Salon Manager of the Year Winner Hawkesbury Business Awards Beauty Salon many years in a row.

Luxury Experience for you

We pride ourselves on having some of the industry's most professional and highly skilled Skin Therapists, Hair Stylists and Make Up Artists, through our commitment to on - going training and post - graduate education. Our skilled therapists, specialized equipment and exceptional products will give you the most beautiful luxurious experience.

Half Price Wednesday’s on Selected Services

Nestled in the heart of the hawkesbury, In2skin & Brows is a premium destination for great skin, glowing radiance, beautiful brows providing the highest level of care.

With a devoted team of therapists they prioritise your complete wellness offering a rejuvenating experience that resonates within and beyond.

www.mwsg.com.au

Managed Waste Service is a ‘new face’ in the local waste industry. Based in the beautiful Hawkesbury, we provide sustainable waste and recycling services for a range of businesses, big and small across the Hawkesbury, Blue Mountains and Greater Sydney. Diverting waste from landfill is at the heart of what we do - sustainable waste management is good for business, and great for our environment. Contact our friendly team on 1800 067 228 or visit www.mwsg.com.au

We are a local business who specialises in candle and soap making supplies. We are open direct to the public for instore shopping and happy to o er any advice and help for beginners.

ACROPOLIS YEEROS

We would like to thank our loyal customers for voting for us in this years Local Business awards

Sitting in Comfort has never been so easy!

If you’re looking to find your dream lounge head on over to Known For Lounges, they are Family owned and operated with 3 generations now a part of the Business. With over 50 years combined experience in the furniture industry and design of Australian Made Lounges and Sofas in full Leathers and Quality Fabrics.

www.knownforlounges.com

“It is our aim to provide customers with our furniture expertise and make to measure quality lounges at an affordable price. Let us create your dream lounge today!”

- The team at Known For Lounges

Thank you to all of our customers who voted for us in this years local business awards and helped us become a finalist!

Gracie

Barra Hawkesbury

Your Hawkesbury Hair Home.

Give

Heavy Vehicles Light Vehicles Plant Machinery AIS Inspection Station Safety Checks Defect Clearances Registration Inspections

Both in our Workshop and On-site Breakdown assistance

Services and Repairs to: 108-110 Mileham st, South Windsor NSW 2756 02 4577 6666

MVRL60077

www.better truckrepairs.com.au

Wilberforce OOSH provides, Before and After School Care as well as Vacation Care to Wilberforce and surrounds.  50% of children that attend OOSH spend as much time in OOSH as they do in school.

We are a small not for profit, community-based organisation who's educators have been with the organisation for between 14 and 28 years. One of who was the founder of National OOSH Educators Day.

Wilberforce OOSH is rated Exceeding the National Quality Framework and prides itself on being an extension of its families lives.

Wilbeforce out of hours school care Macquarie Rd / P.O. Box 7139, Wilberforce, 2756 wilberforceoosh@hotmail.com (02) 457 51860

Gourmet Herbs grown in Hawkesbury

When Pembe opened her beauty therapy business in 2016, she chose to specialise in creating radiant skin and brow silhouettes that suit a customer’s personal journey.

“Supporting the customer’s journey to have glowing skin and beautiful brows is our promise, with highest level of care, giving confidence and vibrant beauty deep within,” Pember said.

“I have created a space where customers can feel at home while having treatments with our latest skin therapies available.”

While working at a day spa, Pembe studied for her Diploma of Beauty Therapy accredited not only in Australia but also internationally.

She is a mother of four children and with ample support from her husband, Pembe has grown her business employing qualified skin therapists she has trained herself.

After working for many years with several beauty salons and skin clinics, Pembe picked up her unique treatment style in skin and brows.

“I made the decision to teach my passion on beauty therapy and came to the realisation my true calling was to be in a skin therapy clinic,” she says.

Whether you want to improve the appearance of your skin type or transform the way you look, Pember and her team are the skin and brow beauty experts to call on, and they are more than happy to help.

Plus Fitness McGraths Hill has recently improved its services with a focus to be an all-inclusive community of health and fitness-minded members.

To join Plus Fitness 24/7 McGraths Hill as you get ready this spring and summer, visit https://www. plusfitness.com.au/gyms/mcgraths-hill\

Half-price Wednesday treatments

HORTICULTURIST Jane Vasallo is known for her range of succulent herbs she grows on her Hawkesbury farm.

Restaurants in Sydney, Newcastle and Canberra are among the clientele in her specialty business called Gourmet Herbs.

The company is winner of the Australian Women’s Small Business Champion Award 2022 and Hawkesbury Local Business Award winner 2022.

Also the Winner of the Australian Small Business Award 2022 and the Sydney Market Fresh Awards 2021.

Starting with fancy lettuce, Jane trialed growing micro-herbs and was surprised by the huge demand across Australia.

She now grows up to 23 kinds of herbs which chefs and households use as ingredients in their menus.

“Our main purpose is to produce and provide fresh, high-quality herbs and edible flowers to complete and complement any plate as it is served,” she said.

“We can offer a range of cut herbs, an assortment of Asian herbs, including the basic herbs for everyday cooking and edible flowers such as zucchini and violas.

“Our values and principles are carried out equally to include ethical behaviour and core values are utmost important for our company.

“We start with our employees right through to our clients and business associates.

“By following guidelines, this enables us to achieve our best product to satisfy customers.

“Visit our farm and meet our people, we’ll show you where your food comes from.

Visit www.gourmetherbs.com.au or contact jane@gourmetherbs.com.au for enquiries.

Pembe is making inspiration flow

BEAUTY experts enhance the way we look, including the way we feel about ourselves.

Beauty therapist Pembe of In2Skin & Brows in Windsor says they make inspiration flow so that customers achieve confidence, one skin at a time.

They offer skin treatments and correction, laser hair removal, brows and lashes, spray tan, tinting, waxing, facials, and peels among others, and customers can browse on best products to maintain skin appearance.

In2Skin & Brow caters for everyone’s needs to achieve their desired look.

To book an appointment or learn more about their services, visit www.in2skinandbrows.com

Focus on gym members

THE prestigious Australian Beauty Industry Awards (ABIA) has recognised Skin Fitness Hair & Beauty operating in Richmond as NSW Beauty Salon/Spa of the Year and Australian Salon Manager of the Year.

These awards, including as winner of the Hawkesbury Business Awards Beauty Salon of the Year for several years in a row, are testament to the skills and dedication of hair and beauty therapy staff to look after you, and make one feel and look good.

The salon offers professional skin pigmentation, correction and tightening treatments including the popular natural lift without needles, skin brightening and getting rid of those wrinkles and spider veins.

For ageing skins, they offer solutions to restore firmness and radiance such as the high-intensity focused ultrasound or HIFU which produces collagen without risk of infection or scarring and the result is a very natural instant lift.

Acne-prone skin is also the salon’s specialty – offering ways to clear out blackheads and reduce breakouts which included tips on going make-up free and still be confident with how you look.

Mums with babies can come in on Wednesdays when creche is available, including half price treatment days for anyone which you can check by visiting www.skin-fitness.com.au Skin Fitness Hair & Beauty is located at 1/47 March St, Richmond NSW 2756. You can book online or by calling (02) 4578 3796 open Monday to Saturday.

For the love of lounges

It’s easy to be swept up in the latest trends and fads in the fast-moving fitness industry.

Covid restrictions, floods and bushfires also disrupted the fitness routines of local members hitting their usual workout routine at Plus Fitness 24/7 McGraths Hill.

But gym franchisee Kirsten Young says having a deep bond with members and the community is the main reason Plus Fitness 24/7 McGraths Hill remains the local “go-to” option when it comes to keeping fit and healthy.

Offering reliable and affordable membership programs and maintaining the basics of fitness services with regular improvements such as online workouts and fresh approaches to meeting client expectations has kept the gym’s doors open and thriving since 2012.

The McGrath’s Hill franchisee attributes the gym’s longevity to being adaptable to trends while maintaining consistency with core service, meeting the market needs and what client’s want in their gym.

Along with smart consistent management the key their success is the forming of strong and loyal relationships with the gym’s growing clientele, Kirsten says.

Exciting changes are ahead as Plus Fitness 24/7 McGraths Hill celebrated its 11th year last August.

“We are currently in the planning stages to complete our clubs rebrand, which will elevate the experience for our clients,” Kirsten says.

“Plus Fitness 24/7 McGraths Hill has always supported the employment of Hawkesbury locals.

“We aim to incorporate local talented staff into the business. Many of them have kickstarted their careers in the fitness industry under my guidance.

“I am happy to see them grow and move on to bigger things.”

SITTING in Comfort has never been so easy! If you’re looking to find your dream lounge, head to Known For Lounges showrooms in Vineyard and Minchinbury.

The Kohnertz family – Marc and his wife Toni, and their children Bridgette and Ben – have been in Western Sydney for over 50 years now and their family of three generations have been providing customers with Quality Australian made Lounge & Sofas for all these years.

Marc’s interest in creating beautiful furniture was apparent from a young age.

“Now I have myself, my wife Toni and my children Bridgette and Ben also involved in the business. If a situation arises in which a client can’t find exactly what suits them in their showrooms, our team of expert designers will turn a unique request into reality,” Marc said,

The company’s showrooms display some of the best quality Australian-made sofas and lounges with competitive prices compared with trending brands in the market and they also specialise in custom made lounges and sofas to be made into any size, configuration, comfort and colour!

Visit www.knownforlounges.com to view a range of designs offered in their showrooms. Open 7 days

Delicious meals takeaway or delivery

Clarendon Tavern is perfect spot for diners and beer lovers, and of course wine and Margarita lovers!

The owners beautifully refurbished the popular pub located at 244 Hawkesbury Valley Road, to become one of the sought after dining and entertainment destinations in northwest Sydney.

“Our spacious venue caters all special occasions on the social calendar, whether a birthday party for a small group, a big family with a throng of friends, or large corporate celebrations, we accommodate,” a team member said.

“The sumptuous menu is second to none since we transformed the pub’s offerings with emphasis on top quality food.

“Our region is known for artisan beer makers, 58 taps available at the bar, mostly award-winning concoctions by Aussie brewers, many of them our pride.

“We exist to restore the gift of hearing, to help individuals reconnect with their world, and to enrich their quality of life.

“We take pride in our role as advocates for hearing health, educating and empowering our community to make informed decisions about their auditory well-being.

“With our values as our compass, we are not just a business, we are a lifeline, a partner in your hearing health journey, and a force for positive change in the lives we touch.”

Enquiries in person at 265 George Street, Windsor NSW 2756, by email on windsor@totalhearinghealth. com.au or call (02) 4577 3358. Visit www. totalhearinghealth.com.au

ACROPOLIS Yeeros at South Windsor offers a selection of everyone’s favourite takeaways starting with a range of delicious Greek foods that you can mix and match with what’s on the long menu list.

Specialties include fish and crispy chips, burgers, BBQ beef and lamb, yeeros, Vietnamese pho and vermicelli noodles and the must try handmade potato scallops.

It’s our family-owned business employing six local staff and promising hot, fresh, and tasty meals you can purchase at the George Street shop or online and delivered to you as fast as orders are carefully cooked and packed.

“If you’re looking for a no-fuss dinner at any day of the week, click our website and choose from our menu and tell us what’s best time to deliver so you have more time doing other things as we make dinner for you and your family or friends,” a team member said.

“We are open seven days and delivery is available at Llandillo, Hobartville, Richmond, Londonderry, Bligh Park, Windsor Downs, Clarendon, Cornwallis, Freemans Reach, McGraths Hill, Mulgrave, South Windsorm Berkshire Park, Box Hill, Marsden Park, Oakville, Riverstone, and Vineyard.

“Our range of menu includes Dinner Meal Deal with all kinds of meat, chicken, seafoods, vegetables and entrees, desserts to choose from to make sure you enjoy a great meal from us.

“We always improve our service to better serve our customers, bring you better value and most of all, we maintain hygiene in food preparation and service.”

Click order online and see range of menu for delivery by visiting www.menulog.com.au/restaurantsacropolis-yeeros/menu. For enquiries, email acropolisyeerossouthwindsor@gmail.com or call (02) 4577 8400.

Tavern

Looking to find a selection of quality food and artisan and traditional draught beers if you’re at Hawkesbury?

“We aim to please, so we offer an awesome dining experience, with music and entertainment on the house.”

While at the bistro, eating, drinking and having a great time, the children can enjoy the playground and arcade to keep them entertained.

The exclusive second level function room overlooks Hawkesbury and RAAF Base.

For an ideal venue to host your special event consider the Clarendon Tavern. Visit www. clarendontavern.com to book functions, or get in touch on (02) 9055 7700 or functions@ clarendontavern.com.

Hearing support locally available

Look your best with Viktoria

ANYONE experiencing hearing loss has readily available local support at Total Hearing and Health at George Street, Windsor.

The clinic opened in 2015 as an independent family-owned hearing testing and advisory covering the Hawkesbury district to assist residents manage hearing loss.

“We recognise the responsibility to ensure we are unwavering in our commitment to empower individuals, enhance their lives and make a positive impact on the community,” a team member said.

“We believe in integrity, transparency, and dedication to our clients. Our purpose is clear – to be a beacon of hope and support for those facing audiological challenges.

IF pampering yourself is top of mind after busy days, visit Viktoria’s Hair & Beauty Salon located at North Richmond.

Whether it’s a hair colour transformation or a beauty treatment you’re after, Viktoria’s experienced team welcomes you.

Business owner, Victoria Micallef, a hair colour specialist and bridal hair stylist opened her doors in 2010.

With 13 years in business and over 20 years’ experience, her popular salon has won awards that reflect the high-quality, professional, and affordable services the team provides to her customers.

“We pride ourselves on the pure passion we have for our craft.

“Achieving the best results always with each colour transformation. Our team’s knowledge and experience is of high standards, using high end quality products like Keune Hair Cosmetics to help achieve these high expectations for each and everyone who visits our store.

“My experienced staff are trained to ensure you look your best and feel amazing,” says Victoria.

“We offer a professional bridal hair styling and makeup services tailored to your bridal party, we also offer mobile services for bridal hair and makeup within the Hawkesbury and outer areas

“Come in to enjoy some pampering to relax and unwind, contact us for an appointment today… Call (02) 4571 3302 or book online at www.viktorias. com.au or email enquiries@viktorias.com.

YOU’RE in a perfect spot at Clarendon Tavern which is in the running for 2023 Hawkesbury Business Awards – People’s Choice Award

Wollemi Valley Springs brings the freshness of nature to your doorstep.

Experience the freshness of nature with Wollemi Valley Springs, the Hawkesbury’s local supplier of the finest quality bottled water and coolers, and a family-run Hawkesbury-based business that proudly serves Sydney’s North-West and Blue Mountains.

Offering coolers to rent or buy, and fortnightly or monthly free delivery and no lock-in contracts, Wollemi Valley Springs is a convenient local drinking water solution. Its own-brand bottled spring water is sourced from near the Wollemi National Park. For those who prefer a dash of sparkle, its Beloka sparkling and still mineral waters come from the pure waters of the Australian

Alpine region.

Owner Nicholas Digges has 20 years’ experience in Spring Water, and is delighted at being a finalist in the Hawkesbury Business Awards, having entered for the first time this year. It’s testament to the company’s hard work he says: “Being a finalist in these prestigious awards is both humbling and inspiring. It’s a clear indication that our commitment to providing the finest quality bottled water and our long-standing dedication to customer service is appreciated. We are thrilled to be recognised in this way.”

Learn more at www.wollemivalleysprings.com.au or call 0448 930 720.

Hawkesbury’s local businesses showcased

FROM PAGE 14

of entertainment, good food, relaxed chat and celebration with their colleagues and people from other businesses from around the district.”

Mr Loe said being a finalist at the Hawkesbury Local Business Awards presentation night was an enormous achievement.

“It’s also a chance for businesspeople and their teams to reflect on their successes with a fun night out,” he said.

“Making it to the finalist presentation is a great reflection on their efforts and everyone is always extremely proud to be there.

“All finalists in each category are

announced, with their picture shown on the big screen.

“It’s heart-warming to hear the deafening cheers from the crowd as everyone celebrates the achievement of all the businesses in the room.

Today is the day when nominees for the 2023 Hawkesbury Local Business Awards discover if they have made it as a finalist.

Mr Loe said the high quality of all nominees had made the job of judges incredibly difficult.

“The Hawkesbury Post, which has supported the awards as media partner for many years, will announce the finalists in each category with a special feature in today’s paper,” he said.

“This is a chance for customers and clients to see if the businesses they nominated have become finalists.”

The Hawkesbury Local Business Awards are only possible with the support of major partners.

“It’s with great pleasure that I congratulate all the finalists on their achievements, on behalf of the Hawkesbury Local Business Awards,” Mr Loe said.

“I would also like to thank the Hawkesbury community for the huge support that they continue to show for their local businesses through the Awards every year.

“Without them, these outstanding businesses would receive the recognition which they deserve.”

For more information about the Local Business Awards, visit www.thebusinessawards.com.au.

Travel

Travel Guide with The Classic Safari Company

The Classic Safari Company is Australia’s leading safari specialist. Since 1992, they’ve been exploring the world and sharing their passions, using first-hand experiences to create exceptional safaris and journeys like no other in Australia. The Classic Safari Company was founded by now Hawkesbury resident, South African-born Julie McIntosh. Her passion for Africa’s people, wildlife and landscapes form the foundation of this specialist travel company. With a focus

on creating luxurious bush experiences, Julie and the Safari Team have carved out a niche tailoring adventure holidays to intimate and exclusive safari camps in Africa’s premier wilderness regions.

The highly personalised, bespoke travel service includes India, Sri Lanka, Bhutan; Central and South America; and other far-flung corners of the world where there are wild and wonderful things to discover.

Untouched wilderness, incredible wildlife, rich and colourful cultures, exceptional hospitality, professionalism and above all, out-of-the-ordinary experiences you’ll never forget. All with little touches of class and style along the way, whilst experiencing some of the most exotic forts and palaces, best boutique resorts and luxury bush camps in the world.

In this section, we’ll be calling on the specialist knowledge of our very own resident expert to provide travel advice on destinations you may never have thought to visit.

Zambia Calling….!

Very few people travel to Zambia and for the life of us, we can’t understand why. With a landscape defined by great rivers, astonishing concentrations of wildlife, beautiful bush camps and of course the magnificent Victoria Falls, we think it’s only a matter of time before people catch on.

For now, we’re rather pleased that Zambia is largely off the tourist radar. It keeps it all the more special for those of us who appreciate the finer things in life

– campfires, bucket showers and dining by starlight!

Best Bush Camps – Zambia is one of the few countries where one can still experience a quality bush camp safari –fewer of the frills but all the thrills!

Bling in the Bush – Bushcamps aren’t for everyone. Feeling in need of some pampering? There are numerous luxurious lodges which might be more your scene.

Niche Zambian Safaris for Nature Nuts – Been there, done that? Looking for something a little off the wall?

Zambia offers unique wildlife safaris that take you beyond the Big Five –we’re talking shoebill storks and Giraffe endemic to the Luangwa Valley

Victoria Falls – but which side?! –

The mighty Victoria Falls straddles both Zambia and Zimbabwe and we are often asked ‘which is the better side to visit?’

The truth is that the border crossing is remarkably straightforward, so a day trip in either direction is easily doable –and highly recommended! Even so, there are some key differences between the two countries that are worth considering.

When to Go – Peak season falls between June and October and the green season is from November to March. The carmine bee-eaters are in town around August-September and the bat migration arrives in mid-October.

W: www.classicsafaricompany.com.au

T: 1300-130-218

Arts

The 2023 Hawkesbury Art Prize

The Hawkesbury Art Prize is a national, biennial prize awarded to an Australian artist for a painting, drawing or work on paper with the theme of Contemporary Australian Identity.

Open to Australian artists, the prize is awarded for the most outstanding work created in the past 12 months. The theme invites artists to respond to the concept of contemporary identity in Australian life. The art prize is judged by a panel made up of three notable figures in the Australian art world. The Hawkesbury Art Prize has now established itself as a significant art award. The winner receives $10,000 plus 2-week art residency at Glenhuntly Estate, Kurrajong. Additionally, there are Highly commended and Commended prizes with money and residencies up for grabs. Confidentially, many artists have suggested that it is these residencies that are the essential attraction.

The Hawkesbury Art Prize Inc. is a non-acquisitive art award originally established in 2011 by Dr Robyn Williams and Purple Noon Gallery as part of a Western Sydney University project. Presently, it operates independently as a not-for-profit event run by an incorporated committee of dedicated volunteers now administered by this committee and implemented through Purple Noon Gallery, in association with sponsors Glenhuntly Estate, Pieter Huveneers Bequest, Bendigo Bank and other generous sponsors. It is anticipated that the Prize will continue to grow and become one of the largest and most popular prizes in Australia. Profits have led to the establishment of financial scholarships for talented and aspirational young artists in the region.

The Prize attracts a national audi-

ence and high-profile participants to the Hawkesbury region. After first round online judging of approximately 600+ entries, around 40 finalists are invited to exhibit and sell their work at the Opening Exhibition, which follows the announcement of winners. On Saturday evening 2nd September, Federal Member for Macquarie, Australia’s Special Envoy for the Arts, Susan Templeman will addressed the audience and announced this year’s winners, which included a number from interstate.

The Hawkesbury Art Prize is a truly unique competition as it operates on a not-for-profit basis, setting it apart from

‘Waterholes’ artwork celebrates NAIDOC week

An artwork of historic significance has been added to the collection of Hawkesbury Regional Gallery as Australia celebrates NAIDOC Week, a time to honor the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

The artwork titled ‘Waterholes,’ was donated by renowned Darug artist Leanne Mulgo Watson, will be a focal point for commemorating this year’s NAIDOC Week theme, ‘For our Elders.’

This painting holds significance as part of the historically important Dyarubbin project, and symbolises the deep connection between the Darug people and their ancestral lands.

other art prizes in the country. All profits generated by the prize are entirely dedicated to giving back. In line with this commitment, this year’s profits will be distributed to the National Art School Sydney to establish a scholarship, further supporting and nurturing the growth of talented artists. By participating in the Hawkesbury Art Prize, artists not only have the opportunity to showcase their work and possibly win one of the attractive prizes, but also contribute to the development of Australia’s creative artistic community. The Exhibition runs until September 18 at Purple Noon Gallery, Freemans Reach.

River Dyarubbin: A Tribute through Art

It is the lifeblood of a landscape that has captivated generations. The River Dyarubbin, also known as the Hawkesbury River, meanders for over 120 kilometers, intertwining with the history and culture of the region. The river has also acted as muse and subject for countless artists, writers, and explorers throughout history.

Now, an exhibition pays homage to this iconic waterway. 11 Stories from the River Dyarrubbin is a collaborative exhibition containing stories, videos, music, objects, and artwork. The exhibition tells the stories of the river’s formation, Aboriginal culture, colonial settlers, and memories of historic floods, farming, boats, recreation, and ecology, from deep time to the very present.

The exhibition at Hawkesbury Regional Museum contains more than 80 contributions from the wider Hawkesbury area including Dharug educators, long term residents, historians, scientists, descendants from early settlers, and school and university students. It forms part of the 11 Stories Project commenced in 2018 by composer and producer Oonagh Sherrard.

As part of the project, Sherrard developed a series of 11 audio walks located along the banks of Dyarubbin between Yarramundi and Sackville. The audio walks feature the river’s history and focus on environmental concerns and aspects of ecology, geography, and geomorphology. It is an original score of music, featuring contemporary Dharug singers and voices, inspired by the stories of the river.

“I grew up playing in the bush around Upper Cowan Creek on Lower Hawkesbury and lived on the Upper Hawkesbury for the last 20 years,” Oonagh Sherrard said.

“The ancient river system flowing across Dharug and Darkinjung Country is a constant source of inspiration to me.”

11 Stories from the River Dyarrubbin opens on Saturday, 9 September at the Hawkesbury Regional Museum from 12:30pm.

The Hawkesbury Regional Museum is located at 8 Baker Street, Windsor and is open six days a week. Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 10am to 4pm. Saturday and Sunday 10am to 4pm. Closed Tuesdays

‘Waterholes’ was inspired by the lagoons around Ebenezer in the Hawkesbury district. The artwork captures the essence of these water bodies, symbolizing the life and sustenance they offered people.

The creation of ‘Waterholes’ was commissioned as part of the Dyarubbin (Hawkesbury River): Real Secret River research project in 2018.

The inception of Dyarubbin: The Real Secret River traces back to a remarkable discovery made by Professor Grace Karskens from the University of New South Wales in 2017. While perusing the archives of the Mitchell Library in Sydney, she stumbled upon a document: a list of 178 Aboriginal place names on Dyarubbin, compiled in 1829 by Reverend John McGarvie, a local Presbyterian minister.

Using the list a research team of Dharug locals, historians, archaeologists and linguists identified and mapped the original locations along the river and in doing so recovered and revitalised the river’s Aboriginal history, culture and language.

To date, over 90 of the place names have been successfully identified and mapped, breathing new life into the names preserved within McGarvie’s list. Notably, the list also contains the Darug/Darkinjung name for Dyarubbin’s tributary, the Macdonald River, known as Ganangdayi.

Katherine Barry (QLD) in front of her win Illumine Suzie Riley

Badu Murubig water path by Leanne Mulgo Watson

‘Waterholes’ artwork celebrates NAIDOC week at Hawkesbury

Food and Drink

Celebrating Springtime The Joy of Charcoal Cooking

By Fiona Hamann

As our inimitable Hawkesbury landscape awakens from its winter slumber (albeit not an especially cold one), a sense of excitement ripples through my household. Spring heralds new beginnings, green leaves, the scent of jasmine blossom in the air, and most importantly (for food enthusiasts), the beginning of barbecue season and the renewal of outdoor entertaining and good times with close friends, in earnest.

Australia has a rich tradition of outdoor dining, and there’s no better way to celebrate the arrival of spring than with the smoky flavours of a charcoal barbecue.

I recently bought the family a Hibachi grill, a small portable cooking apparatus from Japan. The term “hibachi” translates to “fire bowl”. It can be made from cast iron, steel, or clay and uses charcoal as its heat source. The hibachi grill is ideal for creating seared and deliciously grilled food at the table. Despite its smaller cooking surface, it’s popular for outdoor cooking, especially for small gatherings and picnics or where space might be limited.

In this issue, I’m focussing on exotic lamb skewers on the hibachi and the humble burger, with an exotic Indian-style spicy twist. You don’t need a hibachi to make these recipes, nor even a charcoal grill, but the smoky flavour from the charcoal is hard to beat.

Both can be cooked on a charcoal grill or a standard gas BBQ and served alongside a refreshing tomato salad. The burger can also be made in a heavybased frypan and the skewers under the grill in the kitchen.

Although it’s not open yet, I am excited to hear about the forthcoming launch of the Spice Basket Indian Grocery Store at 285 Windsor Street, Richmond. It inspired me to research recipes using aromatic spices that I hope will be in stock when it opens. There is also a good range of Indian spices at the North Richmond Fruit Shop. I purchased the chicken from Johnny and his team at The Butcher Shop, Shop 18 in Park Mall at Richmond, because they always have beautiful quality and often local meats. The veges in all the recipes came from Richmond Fruit Market across from the butcher.

The Charcoal Advantage Charcoal grills have a unique allure. The smoke infuses the food with a rich, deep flavour that’s hard to imitate with other forms of cooking. It’s a sensory, social experience that elevates cooking

(and socialising) to a whole new level.

Whether we’re talking about juicy burgers or spicy lamb skewers, charcoal grilling brings out the best in these dishes. With the right ingredients, some fragrant spices and a bit of practice, you can turn your backyard into a gourmet outdoor kitchen that will have your neighbours looking jealously over the back fence for an invitation.

Inspiration for the cooked dishes came from Asma Khan’s book Ammu – Indian Home Cooking to Nourish Your Soul, published by Interlink Books (ISBN13: 9781623718411).

Spicy Lamb Kebabs – Makes about

10 large Kebabs

GF and with substitutions can be lactose-free as well.

500g Lamb mince (beef would work well too)

1 TB Chickpea flour (also called Besan)

1TB ginger paste or freshly grated ginger

1 clove garlic, crushed

1TB Greek yoghurt or lactose-free alternative

1 white onion finely diced

1 egg, beaten

2 TB finely chopped coriander leaves (stalks add more flavour, too)

½ TB medium chilli powder such as Kashmiri (or milder chilli powder such as Deggi Mirch).

½ tsp cumin

½ tsp ground

½ tsp garam masala

1 green chilli, finely diced (deseeded for less heat)

1tsp salt

Instructions:

Dry roast the chickpea flour in a heavy-based frypan until it turns a few shades darker (honey-coloured), stirring regularly to keep it from burning. Once the colour starts changing, remove from heat, as it will continue to roast.

Put all ingredients into a bowl and mix together.

Put some vegetable oil on your hands, as the mixture will be sticky. Take a palm-sized chunk and roll it into a ball, insert the kebab skewer through the middle, and shape it into a sausage along the skewer.

Place kebabs uncovered in the fridge to dry for half an hour. (I find they stick to the skewers on the coals better.)

Cook on a Hibachi when the charcoal is white hot, or cook on a BBQ plate. You can also baste them with oil or ghee and put them under the grill, turning frequently until cooked.

NB: You can remove chilli and replace it with paprika if you like aromatic flavours without the heat.

The Australian Burger Experience

The Aussie burger is emblematic of our laid-back lifestyle. A burger, in all its glory, is a meal to be relished with both hands, a squishy bun, and an explosion of flavours.

You could substitute red meat mince for chicken in the burgers at a pinch. These are best cooked in a frypan or hotplate on a BBQ (or even the stovetop) as they are very loose patties and will crumble through the grates. If you want these to go directly onto the charcoal grill or hibachi, omit the wet ingredients (yoghurt and egg) and deseed the tomatoes.

Indian Spiced Chicken Burgers

It can be Gluten and Lactose-free with substitutesions.

Makes 6 fat Burgers (or 8 slimmer ones)

1kg chicken thigh mince*

1 TB Full Fat Greek Yoghurt or nondairy yoghurt for lactose-free*

1 TB Ginger Paste (bought or minced yourself)

1TB Garlic paste (bought or minced yourself)

1 tsp Chilli powder*

1 tsp Ground Coriander

1 tsp Garam Masala

½ tsp ground black pepper

1 tsp salt

3 green chillies finely chopped*

1 medium onion, chopped finely 200g chopped tomatoes

2 TB finely chopped coriander leaves

1 large egg beaten*

120-140 ml vegetable oil (plus more to grease your hands)

Burger buns/bread/naan bread/gluten-free buns

Red onion sliced quite thickly

Your favourite spicy/sweet chutney or tomato sauce

Instructions: Combine all ingredients (except oil) in a bowl. It will be a wet mixture – don’t panic!

Oil your hands and, divide the mixture into six (or eight if you are making smaller burgers) and roll into fat patties.

Put patties aside to rest in the fridge for about 30 minutes. Leave uncovered to dry a little.

Heat a heavy-based frypan on the BBQ or stove top and warm the oil. Test

it’s hot enough if an onion slice dipped in the oil sizzles instantly.

Cook on both sides until browned and cooked through (it’s chicken, so you want to be sure it’s cooked through – 75C if you have a meat thermometer). And be gentle. These are very wet burgers when raw.

Cook directly on the grill plate if you have omitted the liquid ingredients mentioned earlier.

Spread burger buns with a layer of chutney or sauce, top with meat patties, more sauce and onion slices. I also add chopped coriander or mint for added zing, but you could also add lettuce and tomato.

*I like to mince whole thighs but bought mince with a reasonable fat content is fine, too.)

*Deggi Merch Chilli powder is a little hotter than paprika but still mild, but any chilli powder will work.

*Green chillies are mild, but you can deseed for a milder flavour and reduce or increase the number of chillies according to your taste.

*I love Byron Bay Chilli Company Mango Chilli or coconut chilli sauce.

Tomato Salad

This is the simplest salad and is incredibly refreshing. Despite the robustness of raw onion and fresh ginger, the flavours aren’t overbearing. Use any tomatoes, from cherry tomatoes to the multi-coloured mini heirloom tomatoes or whatever looks good, juicy and fresh. Chop large ones to cherry tomato size, though.

400g cherry tomatoes, halved

1 – 2 white onions, thinly sliced

1 lemon, juiced

7-10cm piece of ginger, finely grated

Salt to taste

Mix all the ingredients in a bowl and season with salt and pepper. So simple. So good! Add a smattering of chopped coriander for colour if you like.

Springtime in Australia celebrates life, warmth, and the joys of outdoor cooking.

So dust off your grill, gather your friends and family, and enjoy this vibrant season with these delicious barbecue recipes. Here’s to a season of outdoor dining, laughter, and the unforgettable taste of charcoal-cooked meals.

If you have produce or ingredients you want to be included in the next issue, please contact us at info@hawkesburypost.com.au I would love to highlight our local producers, suppliers, and small businesses.

Castle Grand, Castle Hill

IN THE HILLS

WEXPO Hills Workshops

Lee Ussher

Creating Attraction Marketing

Australia’s only authorised Grow with Google trainer guides her audience through techniques and strategies to maximise attraction marketing. Focussing on digital media and building audiences, Lee calls upon her vast experience as a teacher, mentor, and business founder to share practical techniques that will have an immediate positive affect on your business’s digital attraction.

Farid Zaki

The Recipe for Business Success

What is business success and how do we achieve it? The definition of success is broad. In this entertaining presentation by respected MD of Western Sydney based ATP Accountants Farid helps clients achieve greater profits, enjoy greater wealth, minimise tax, while maintaining steady cash flow. Farid is a long-term member of the Sydney Hills Business Chamber.

Marcus Whelan

Start From Where You Are At

It’s fitting that, in Mental Health month, performance coach and psychologist Marcus Whelan delivers a compelling presentation around calling time out conditions that could be holding you back – in business or personal life. Marcus is on a mission to help people grow and become the best they can be. His audience will take away useful insights to turn problems into opportunities.

Exhibitors

9 Identify how to expand your business beyond the hills.

9 Increase business growth by strengthening your connections.

9 Access free information & expertise from government organisations & industry professionals.

Katherine Hawes

Unpacking Legal Complexity

The principal at Digital Age Lawyers focuses on making legal information meaningful and actionable for small businesspeople and individuals. In this engaging session Katherine will lead her audience through key principles for creative solutions to everyday problems and discuss insights to common issues including social media, succession, contracts and property.

Tina Clark

Maximising finance for business growth

As the CEO of Laurentide and CAFBA Board Member, Tina Clark brings over 25 years’ experience in the business and equipment financing industry to guide her audience through the most effective paths to securing finance for business growth.

A first-class opportunity to connect and network with Influencers & fellow

The Pink Finss Race Day

Local charity Pink Finss raised over $120,000 earlier this month at the Hawkesbury Race Club. The organisation was thrilled be able to host their fundraiser after a four year hiatus due to Covid and floods. This year the weather was perfect and the community raised a record amount of money which will go to support cancer patients and their families.

Sport

Pandemic Pause to Glory: Glossodia Netball Club’s Resilient 2023

As the sun sets on another thrilling netball season, Glossodia Netball Club can look back with pride at their remarkable journey through the 2023 season. After the challenges posed by a global pandemic and truncated netball seasons, the club managed a full season, showcasing talent, teamwork, and tenacity like never before.

The 2023 season witnessed Glossodia Netball Club fielding an impressive eight teams, an achievement in itself. Even more remarkable is that six of these teams found themselves competing in the Finals, with four claiming the coveted title of Minor Premiers and four battling it out in the Grand Finals.

The season’s festivities kicked off with the youngest stars, the Net Set Go Maroon girls, taking to the court on Saturday, August 12th, for their final game. While the result might not have gone their way, these budding netballers, aged between 5-10 years old, showed remarkable improvement under the guidance of their coach, Rori. Their spirited training sessions at Glossodia School translated into tangible progress on the court, proving their mettle and leaving a lasting impression.

The club welcomed a fresh face this season, Junior 3, who made an impressive debut by securing a spot in the semi-finals. Coached by Izzy and Maddie, this squad of ten brand-new players demonstrated commitment and resilience as they honed their skills throughout the season. Although they narrowly missed their chance at a Grand Final appearance, their progress and determination were nothing short of admirable.

Intermediate 4, under the coaching of Nat and the meticulous management of Lauren, put up a stellar performance throughout the season. They secured the top spot on the ladder as Minor Premiers, losing only a single game. After a nail-biting semi-final showdown against Colo, they faced Sullair in a thrilling Grand Final. The match

was a rollercoaster ride, but in the end, Glossodia prevailed, clinching victory in overtime—a remarkable achievement.

Intermediate 3, expertly coached by Angela, displayed their competitive spirit throughout the season. Despite facing injuries and illnesses, these seasoned players emerged as Minor Premiers and earned a spot in the Grand Final. Unfortunately, they couldn’t secure the top spot on the day, settling for a well-deserved second place.

In the A1 division, a group of long-standing teammates faced stiff competition. This season presented a unique challenge, and while they may not have reached the finals, their unity and experience shone through. Their contributions as both players and umpires within the club remained

invaluable.

The B Maroon team, managed by Ava, showcased their competitive streak by finishing as Minor Premiers. Although they fell short in the Grand Final, their journey from friendly netballers to championship contenders is a testament to their dedication.

Under the guidance of coach Amanda and manager Mel, B3 faced numerous ups and downs throughout the season. Their relentless spirit saw them through thrilling overtime victories, even though their journey concluded in the finals against Colo.

The veterans of the club, the C Grade team, proved age is just a number with their astounding performances. Despite finishing as Minor Premiers, they faced a formidable opponent in the Grand

Final and narrowly missed the crown. Their resilience promises a third-timelucky mantra for next season.

Topping off the season Glossodia’s Umpire Convenor Steve was awarded the Horex Award for outstanding assistance to the Hawkesbury City Netball Association.

Glossodia Netball Club is always looking to new members. Plans are already underway to add another junior team to the mix next season. If you’re seeking a vibrant and inclusive netball club, Glossodia is the place to be. With teams for all ages, the club invites prospective players to secure a spot in the upcoming season. Join the Glossodia family and become part of a netball community that thrives on passion, camaraderie, and sportsmanship.

Windsor Polo Club Gearing Up for A Spectacular Spring Season

Windsor Polo Club is gearing up for the upcoming Spring Polo season after a two-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic & devastating 2022 floods. After a successful Autumn season the club is excited to welcome back spectators and players for another exciting season of polo this year.

“We are thrilled to see polo return to the Hawkesbury region in full force.” said club representative Teneille Murray. “It’s been a tough couple of years but seeing our dedicated members and spectators come back to support us this year has been amazing.”

The spring season will feature a num-

ber of exciting tournaments, including the Hector King and Countess of Dudley Cup, and the JK Mackay Trophy 16-goal. The Hector King Tournament is open to teams of 10-goal players, while the Countess of Dudley Cup is open to teams of 8-goal players.

“We are stronger than ever,” said Murray. “We are committed to providing polo opportunities for players of all ages and skill levels, and we are excited to show everyone what we can do.”

The JK Mackay Trophy is open to teams of 16-goal players which will bring the best of Australia and some of the world to Windsor Polo Club.

“Windsor Polo Club is expecting a great season of polo,” said Murray. “Some of the best players in the country are coming to compete, and we are sure to put on a great show.”

The spring season is a great opportunity for spectators to enjoy the excitement of this fast-paced and demanding sport. “We are excited to welcome back spectators and share our love of polo. Bring the whole family, a picnic blanket and treat yourselves to lunch at our clubhouse field side.”

The key tournament dates are as follows:

The Hector King Tournament: October 7-8, 2023

The Countess of Dudley Cup Tournament: October 14-15, 2023

JK Mackay Trophy: November 4-12, 2023

In addition to these key tournaments, Windsor Polo Club will also host a number of other events during the spring season, including the Windsor Spring Tournament, the Winten Cup, and the Windsor Twilight Series.

The club is also offering polo lessons for beginners and experienced players. For more information about the Spring Polo season at Windsor Polo Club, please visit the club’s website www.windsorpoloclub.com.au

Glossodia Netball Club’s Resilient 2023-Junior 3 Funny

Windsor Polo Club Gearing Up for A Spectacular Spring Season

Hawkesbury City Eisteddfod 2023

The 71st Hawkesbury City Eisteddfod hosted performers through July, August and September and saw competitors across a range of categories. Congratulations to all the competitors and hard working placegetters.

had a very successful eistedfodd

Gabriel

Abigail Hocothee from Creative Dance Academy

Isabelle - First Place - Grade 1 Piano Solo

Mr and Mrs Huthnance present the pianoforte prıze

Jacqueline & Nicholas First Place – Vocal Duet 18 years and Over

Aditi and her singing awards

Vinh highly commended for Piano Solo

Ivana first place for Piano Solos

Emma and Abbey Vocal Duet