Learn about battery safety and how to get prepared for your visit to the Community Recycling Centre. 12 04 02
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MAYOR’S MESSAGE
Mayor Waddell shares his priorities for Hornsby Shire.
Update on Major Projects
Construction of a new boardwalk at Kangaroo Point, Brooklyn is on track.
HAppy anniversary
Hornsby Aquatic and Leisure Centre celebrates 10 years.
Bush fire awareness
Prepare your property now using our simple guide.
08 10
PERFECT PICNIC SPOTS
Enjoy summer in the Shire with our top picnic spots.
WASTE AND RECYCLING NEWS
YOUR COUNCILLORS
Get in touch with your new Councillors.
Hornsby Shire Council
Message Mayor’s
WELCOME TO ‘OUR COUNCIL’, OUR QUARTERLY PUBLICATION, BRINGING YOU NEWS OF WHAT’S BEEN HAPPENING ACROSS HORNSBY SHIRE.
It is a great honour and a privilege to be chosen to serve my community and to represent the interests of the people of Hornsby Shire as your new Mayor.
“ IT IS A GREAT HONOUR AND A PRIVILEGE TO BE CHOSEN TO SERVE MY COMMUNITY AND TO REPRESENT THE INTERESTS OF THE PEOPLE OF HORNSBY SHIRE AS YOUR NEW MAYOR.
“
After two rewarding terms serving as a Hornsby Shire Councillor, including a period as Deputy Mayor, I am looking forward to taking the next step to ensuring our beautiful Shire continues to thrive.
As someone who was born and bred in the area, I am passionate about Hornsby Shire and our people. I was born in Hornsby Ku-ring-gai Hospital and attended Galston Public School and Galston High School. I am the fifth generation of the Waddell family of fruit producers and have enjoyed a career in a range of small business entities, including the oversight of our ongoing family business. I am also a former board member of the Hornsby Ku-ring-gai Women’s Shelter.
My priorities as Mayor include:
Ensuring Hornsby Shire remains a place where our natural beauty is preserved, and our neighbourhoods are safe, attractive and functional.
Advocating for responsible renewal of our neglected urban corridor and the enhancement of our public domain.
Ensuring that every voice in Hornsby is heard, contributing towards transparent decision-making that reflects the needs and aspirations of all our residents.
Building a strong future for Hornsby Shire and its next generations.
I would like to acknowledge the Hon Philip Ruddock and all the Councillors who served on the previous term of Council – thank you for your significant contribution to the community. And congratulations and welcome to all our incoming Councillors. I look forward to collaborating with everyone, new and reappointed, to ensure the best outcomes for the Shire.
I look forward to meeting you all over the coming months as our new Council gets down to business. If you see me out and about, please don’t hesitate to come and say hello. And if you have any enquiries or concerns, I am always happy to hear from you at wwaddell@hornsby.nsw.gov.au.
Warren Waddell Mayor,
Hornsby Shire Council
Update on
major projects
STRIDES MADE ON KANGAROO POINT TO BROOKLYN BOARDWALK
Stretching from Kangaroo Point to Seymours Creek, an elevated boardwalk and concrete pathway currently under construction will soon wind approximately one kilometre through a spectacular mangrove and bushland setting, perfect for weekend adventures in Brooklyn. This new route will provide an opportunity to walk or cycle along the foreshore and to sit and enjoy the views and unique natural setting.
The boardwalk will connect with a recently completed shared pedestrian and cycle path along Brooklyn Road, creating a fantastic walking and cycling route between Kangaroo Point and the town centre of Brooklyn.
NEW OPPORTUNITIES FOR GETTING ACTIVE
With the project due for completion in autumn 2025 (weather permitting), it will be a fantastic new amenity for tourists and locals alike. Getting out for a walk, run or bike ride in Brooklyn will be much more feasible, whether it’s to explore on the weekend or for active travel to and from school or work during the week.
The active transport route will not only benefit our health and wellbeing, but walking, cycling and running are environmentally friendly and will reduce car usage and traffic congestion.
“ GETTING OUT FOR A WALK, RUN OR BIKE RIDE IN BROOKLYN WILL BE MUCH MORE FEASIBLE.
“
BUILDING THE FUTURE PATHWAY
Construction of the boardwalk began in July, with excavation works for the first section of shared path completed. The route has been designed to minimise the impact to the intertidal zone, saltmarsh and mangrove areas.
Installation of piles along the route are now occurring, with pile embedded up to nine metres into the ground. Construction of the boardwalk structure is also underway and the fabrication of the new Seymours Creek bridge is occurring off site.
PROGRESS IN MOTION
The completion of the works will see a total three kilometres of shared path between Baden Powell Avenue and Kangaroo Point.
The project is funded by the NSW Government’s Get NSW Active and Metropolitan Greenspace programs, which provides funding for local councils to create more liveable neighbourhoods through projects that support walking and cycling.
REVITALISING GALSTON VILLAGE: PROGRESS UPDATE
The Galston Village Public Domain Plan is progressing, with the plan being refined based in response to our engagement with the community. Council is also continuing to liaise with stakeholders and TfNSW for the works affecting Galston Road.
A design package has also been prepared and a Request for Quotation has been made which will
Installation of piles along the route
FIND OUT MORE
To view the latest updates on the Kangaroo Point to Brooklyn boardwalk, scan the QR code or visit: hornsby.nsw.gov.au/brooklyn-walk
enable the project to move to detailed design development and prepare for Construction Tender. Construction is estimated to commence in mid 2025 subject to the final design approval by TfNSW.
To keep up to date with the project, scan the QR code or visit:
hornsby.nsw.gov.au/ galston-upgrades
Kangaroo Point to Brooklyn Boardwalk
Hornsby Aquatic and Leisure Centre
A GLIMPSE INTO THE LEGACY OF HORNSBY POOL
Hornsby Aquatic and Leisure Centre is celebrating 10 years since it officially reopened to the community, making it the perfect time to reflect on the history of this important local facility.
Originally named ‘Hornsby Olympic Swimming Pool’, it opened in 1962 at a cost of £130,000. The opening was the last official function of retiring Shire Clerk Mr FA Creighton, who was asked to open the pool as a tribute to his long and devoted service to Hornsby Shire Council. Olympic swimmers Murray Rose and John Devitt added to the event’s prestige with their attendance and by swimming the first lap of the pool.
The local newspaper said the pool is ‘claimed to be one of the most picturesque pools in the metropolitan area’.
By 1995, the pool was refurbished to extend its lifespan, but its condition continued to decline. This led to its closure in December 2010 and the eventual construction of the modern $27m Aquatic and Leisure Centre, which officially reopened on 22 November 2014, complete with a gym, fitness studio and water
slide. The new centre was officially opened by the then Prime Minister Tony Abbott.
Thank you for celebrating a decade of Hornsby Aquatic and Leisure Centre with us! We look forward to seeing the community continue to make the most of this cherished pool for years to come.
Hornsby Shire Council
“ CLAIMED TO BE ONE OF THE MOST PICTURESQUE POOLS IN THE METROPOLITAN AREA
“
SWIMMING IN THE SHIRE
For more on Hornsby Aquatic Centre and other local swimming options, scan the QR code or visit: hornsby.nsw.gov.au/swimming
PREPARE YOUR PROPERTY FOR BUSH FIRE SEASON
IT’S NOT JUST FLAMES – HEAT AND EMBERS CAN ALSO DESTROY HOMES. Flames, heat and embers can all cause timbers and other combustible elements to ignite and windows to break. There are ways to prevent the transfer of flame and heat from your yard to your home and seal gaps to stop embers from entering.
IF A FIRE IS IMMINENT
Before and after the fire front passes:
20. Remove flammable items from decks and verandahs such as timber furniture.
21. Remove coconut fibre door mats and hanging baskets from directly around your home.
1. Avoid planting next to or under windows. Design and locate pathways directly adjacent to your home.
2. Enclose under floor areas with metal mesh (2mm aperture).
3. Clean up fallen leaves, twigs and debris from around your property.
22. Wet down surrounding vegetation manually or activate sprinkler systems to put out spot fires.
4. Cut back overhanging branches from rooflines.
5. Minimise use of combustible mulch by choosing alternatives (such as pebbles or scoria).
6. Keep lawns mown to less than 10cm.
7. Store woodpiles and flammable liquids away from your home.
8. Non-combustible fences are the most effective at withstanding radiant heat from a bush fire and prevent transfer of fire from the bush to the streets behind.
9. Strategically located mature trees and dense plantings can provide a wind break and shield against radiant heat and embers.
10. As water pressure may be compromised consider having a static water supply tank with Storz fitting and shut off valve.
11. Keep and maintain a firefighting pump with suction hose to use with your SWS.
12. Have a fire hose long enough to reach around all elevations of your home.
13. If you have a pool, tank or dam, place a Static Water Supply (SWS) sign at the front of your property so firefighters know where they can get water.
14. Direct gas cylinder valves away from your home.
15. Install metal mesh fly screens on external doors, windows, vents and weepholes.
16. Clean gutters of leaves and twigs and repair damaged or missing tiles on the roof.
17. Install a draught excluder on external doors. Consider replacing doors with solid timber or non-combustible materials.
18. Install a sprinkler/drencher system to gutter and eaves and connect it to your SWS.
19. Provide access to the rear of your property for fire management operations.
Picture perfect picnics
on your doorstep
IT’S ALMOST SUMMER AND TIME TO HEAD OUTDOORS
Keep the picnic blanket in the car, and you’ll always be ready to go.
FAGAN PARK, 38-48 ARCADIA ROAD, GALSTON
With manicured gardens, 55 hectares of rolling green space, and fabulous picnic and playground facilities, Fagan Park is one of Hornsby Shire’s most loved attractions. There are picnic shelters and electric barbecues on-site. Or bring a picnic blanket and sit among the lush green grass. Don’t forget to check out the new Children’s Forest.
CROSSLANDS RESERVE
SOMERVILLE ROAD, HORNSBY HEIGHTS
Get close to nature and relax at Crosslands Reserve, a gorgeous setting within Berowra Valley National Park that is great for picnics and outdoor activities. Shelters, picturesque scenery, and playgrounds galore.
BEROWRA WATERS
This beautiful (and hidden) location is perfect for anyone who wants to escape the rush. Surrounded by stunning Berowra Valley National Park, the region has beautiful natural scenery with plentiful parks and reserves that are great for picnics. Boats and kayaks can be hired from the marina.
WISEMANS FERRY
Next to the boat ramp is Wisemans Ferry Recreation Reserve, which features a village green with picnic shelters, tennis courts, playground equipment, a kid’s bike track, and shaded areas. The park borders the Hawkesbury River and is the perfect place to sit and watch the world go by.
Hornsby Shire Council
LISGAR GARDENS, LISGAR ROAD, HORNSBY
Award-winning Lisgar Gardens is just a stone’s throw from Hornsby’s busy west side. A peaceful hillside retreat overflowing with flowers, it’s the perfect place to enjoy a picnic or while away an afternoon relaxing in the beautiful surrounds.
BROOKLYN
This iconic suburb of Hornsby Shire has fabulous waterside views. One highlight is McKell Park, overlooking Hawkesbury River. There are picnic shelters, barbecues, a playground, and the Federation Walk. See if you can spot the park’s Glossy black cockatoos!
“ KEEP THE PICNIC BLANKET IN THE CAR, AND YOU’LL ALWAYS BE READY TO GO.
“
DANGAR ISLAND, BROOKLYN
Dangar Island boasts pleasant parklands, beaches, natural bushland, and spectacular views of the Hawkesbury River. Seagrasses grow in the sheltered and shallow waters of estuaries. You can get to Dangar Island by ferry, water taxi, or (like Governor Phillip) private boat.
FIND OUT MORE
To find out more, scan the QR code or visit: hornsby.nsw.gov.au/parks hornsby.nsw.gov.au/hawkesburyriver
news waste and recycling
STAY BATTERY SAFE THIS SUMMER
Household batteries are some of the most useful and common items in our homes but can have serious and harmful impacts if we dispose of them incorrectly. Fires caused by batteries placed in household bins are unfortunately becoming more common, placing people and the environment at risk.
Batteries can never be placed in any of your household bins, as they can spark and catch fire inside collection trucks or at waste facilities. This includes AA or AAA batteries, button batteries, and lithium batteries, which are particularly dangerous.
Thankfully, it’s easy to store and recycle batteries safely. When your battery is used up, place some clear tape over the terminals and store them in a cardboard box or container with air flow.
Drop them off at your nearest battery recycling point, local options include some supermarkets, hardware stores and the Thornleigh Community Recycling Centre.
FIND OUT MORE
For more information, scan the QR code or to find your nearest battery recycling point visit: hornsby.nsw.gov.au/battery-safety
Don’t toss them in general waste or recycling bins
Take them to your nearest B-cycle accredited Drop off point Binning your batteries is a fire risk and is harmful to people and the planet.
Tape them using clear sticky tape
BEFORE YOUR VISIT GET SORTED
Waste matters
VISITING THE COMMUNITY RECYCLING
Drop off your household problem waste for recycling
CENTRE OVER SUMMER?
You can drop off:
Between December and January, the Community Recycling Centre enters its busiest time of the year. Make sure you prepare for your visit and get sorted before you drive in to ensure a smooth visit.
Waste matters
Drop
29 Sefton Road, Thornleigh Tuesday to Friday, 8.30am-4pm Saturday, 8.30am-12pm Closed Public Holidays
Closed from 4pm, 24 December 2024, reopening 8.30am, 2 January 2025.
PREPARE FOR YOUR VISIT
Only bring household quantities; 20kg or 20L maximum container size.
Empty and flatten cardboard boxes.
Check our website for a list of accepted items.
Group like items together for an easy drop off.
Remove paper inserts and plastic cases from DVD, VHS, CD and audio cassettes.
Please transport your materials carefully.
Only
For all up to date and detailed information please scan the QR code, call Council’s Waste hotline 13 70 30 or visit our website: hornsby.nsw.gov.au/crc
DID YOU KNOW?
Drop
Waste matters
Your Community Recycling Centre is located at: [Address Line 1] [Address Line 2, Suburb]
Household Recycling Drop Off
Hours: Monday to Friday: 9am–5pm
5 Beaumont Road, Mount Kuring-gai
Open 24/7 throughout the holiday period.
Drop off excess flattened cardboard, household mixed recycling, and eligible drink containers at the Return and Earn machine.
You can drop off: Your Community Recycling Centre is located at: [Address Line 1]
Warren is deeply honoured and privileged to be chosen to serve the community and to represent the interests of the people of Hornsby Shire.
Warren was born in Hornsby Ku-ring-gai Hospital in 1968, becoming the fifth generation of the Waddell family of fruit producers. He grew up in the Shire, attending Galston Public School, and Galston High School.
Clr Olivia Simons
(02) 9847 6666 osimons@hornsby.nsw.gov.au
Jane and her husband have lived in Hornsby Shire since 2016. Her background is in IT recruitment and marketing and program management, working for multinational firms both in Australia and in Singapore.
As a resident of Brooklyn and former equestrian enthusiast, Olivia has a strong affinity with both river and rural communities, and a keen interest in preserving the unique ecologies, heritage and character of the Shire.
Clr Nathan Tilbury
0403 227 560 ntilbury@hornsby.nsw.gov.au
Nathan is committed to delivering for the people of Hornsby. He has been a councillor since 2012 and in that time his proven track record has demonstrated his ability to get the job done. He is well known for his empathetic approach and his ability to listen to all residents, no matter the issue.
Monika values health and wellbeing. She enjoys gardening, bike riding, swimming, tennis, and walking. A long-term resident of Pennant Hills, former committee member of the Pennant Hills District Civic Trust, and now in her second term on council, Monika thrives on contributing to her community.
Sallianne and her family moved to Hornsby over 25 years ago. She is passionate about the health and wellbeing of women and children, the importance of Visual and Performing Arts in society, and an inclusive community where all basic needs are met and we are all valued.
Janelle was born and raised in Hornsby Shire. She is passionate about local government, returning for her fourth term at Council after being first elected in 2004. She is well known for fostering engagement with the community and for active promotion of local businesses and organisations, Council issues, programs and events.
C WARD COUNCILLORS
Clr Matthew Conley 0432 835 120 mconley@hornsby.nsw.gov.au
Matthew Conley is committed to serving the Hornsby Shire community with passion and dedication. With a deep appreciation for the natural beauty of the area, especially within Ward C, he aims to protect and preserve the unique environment that makes Hornsby special.
Verity regards herself as very privileged to represent and serve our wonderful community within the Hornsby Shire. She appreciates Hornsby Shire’s rural and urban environment, local businesses, amenities and importantly, the community within it.
Clr Ben McSweeney 0423 411 928 bmcsweeney@hornsby.nsw.gov.au
Ben is married and has one son. He has lived in Cheltenham/Beecroft his whole life, attending Beecroft Public School, and James Ruse High School. He is heavily involved in the local community in both sport and his local school. This is his first term as a Councillor.
Council recognises the Traditional Owners of the lands of Hornsby Shire, the Dharug and GuriNgai peoples, and pays respect to their Ancestors and Elders past and present and to their Heritage.
We acknowledge and uphold their intrinsic connections and continuing relationships to Country.
GET IN TOUCH
‘Our Council’ is a Hornsby Shire Council publication. Send us your feedback or suggestions for stories to: media@hornsby.nsw.gov.au
Subscribe to our free monthly eNews: hornsby.nsw.gov.au/enews
CONTACT DETAILS
Hornsby Shire Council
PO Box 37, Hornsby NSW 1630
Phone: 9847 6666
Fax: (02) 9847 6999
Email: hsc@hornsby.nsw.gov.au
Customer service (telephone and online) hours: 8.30am–5pm Monday to Friday (excluding public holidays) In person: Customer Enquiries counter is located inside Hornsby Library, 28-44 George Street, Hornsby hornsby.nsw.gov.au
This publication is printed on Supreme Uncoated Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC) certified paper using vegetable oil based inks and an alcohol-free ISO 14001 certified printing process.
