Hawkesbury Council failed to lodge an objection to a $213 million tourist development proposed for Kurrajong Hills, sparking outrage from local residents who fear the project will devastate the environment, overwhelm infrastructure, and disrupt their community.Documents obtained by the Hawkesbury Post reveal the Council missed the May 30, 2024 deadline to submit its views to the NSW Planning Panel, on a massive tourist development set to reshape the region.“This project is a disaster waiting to happen,” a local resident told the Hawkesbury Post. “We’re talking about pristine bushland being cleared and a community put at risk in the event of a bushfire.”The proposed development, named "The Island’s Oasis," would transform the bushland site into a sprawling tourist destination with 311 permanent cabins, 120 lodge suites, camping and caravan sites, a large central clubhouse, six communal kitchens, and various recreational facilities. While the plans include upgrades to Hermitage Road and Bells Line of Road, local residents argue these changes are insufficient for the sheer scale of the project and again would see the felling of habitat.The developer is Tony Mehri who owns Merc Capital Group. His son Bashir Merhi, through his Balma Projects Pty Ltd, is also trying to push through a new development just up the hill in Kurrajong. He wants to build a large, modern gambling venue in historic Kurrajong Heights village. The environmental value of the Kurrajong Hills site has been a central point of contention. Large tracts of uncleared land, home to endangered Cumberland Shale-Sandstone Ironbark and Turpentine forests, would be cleared to create an asset protection zone, while vital riparian areas would also be affected. The land is known for its biodiversity, including a well-documented koala colony that would lose critical habitat.The resident - who wished to remain anonymous for now - said there was significant bushfire risks posed by the development, which borders Wollemi National Park and the site has only one narrow access road shared with an existing housing estate. “This is a death trap,” he said, recalling how the 2019 Gospers Mountain fire came within a kilometer of the site. “The developer’s suggestion of an alternative fire trail exit is completely unworkable.” The documents lodged with the Department of Planning also state the costings for the project are based on the use of lightweight prefabricated material where possible. Concerns about the developer’s intentions have further fueled public opposition. Tony Merhi of Merc Capital Group, who owns the land, has faced allegations that the project is less about tourism and more about securing approvals to increase the property’s resale value. Residents who spoke to the Hawkesbury Post pointed out that a previous attempt by Merhi to rezone the site for a 450-lot residential development was unanimously rejected by Council in 2013.At the time, Council concluded that the land lacked the infrastructure, environmental capacity, and fire safety measures needed to support such a large-scale development. In its assessment of the earlier proposal, Council concluded that the land “has no appropriate physical characteristics or environmental capability” to support development and warned that it would fragment land with significant ecological and agricultural value. Despite the similarities between the two projects, Council this time failed to make any submission to the Planning Panel regarding the current proposal.A GIPA request (Freedom of Information) sighted by the Hawkesbury Post sheds light on how the deadline to provide advice to the Department was missed. Council said that no formal consultation letter had been received, with communication limited to an automatic email notification. “...Council did not receive any cover letter, consultation letter or similar aside from the attached automatic email notification. Council has not yet made a submission in response to the consultation,” Council said. As a result, no advice was prepared or sent by the May 30, 2024 deadline.The failure has left residents feeling betrayed. “The community deserves better,” the resident said. “This development would permanently scar our region, and Council didn’t even bother to voice our concerns.”The developer has no track record of building or managing similar ventures, instead focusing on securing development approvals or rezoning before selling off projects. The costings for the project state that marketing, sales, promotional expenses, display unit costs, and any operational or ongoing maintenance expenses have not been accounted for. This omission raises questions about the developer's intentions. The available documents do not clarify what the developer plans to market or sell. Concerned residents have questioned the financial viability of the proposal, noting that the estimated $213 million investment would likely generate less than $20 million annually based on current NSW tourism occupancy rates. “This doesn’t add up,” he said. “It looks like a classic case of securing a development application just to sell the land at a higher price.”The project’s classification as a State Significant Development means the final decision rests with the NSW Independent Planning Commission (IPC), effectively bypassing the local Council. However, the Council still had an opportunity to submit feedback to the Department.The developer is moving ahead with community consultation, scheduling a drop-in session at the Kurrajong Community Centre on Saturday, February 1 at the Kurrajong Community Centre, 30 McMahons Park Road, Kurrajong between 10am and 2 pm.  Residents remain skeptical about whether their concerns will be genuinely addressed.“This isn’t just about one project,” one resident said. “It’s about the future of the Hawkesbury. Do we allow short-sighted, profit-driven developments to destroy what makes this place unique, or do we stand up for our environment and our community?”For more information about the project you can follow these links:Community Facebook Page Against the DevelopmentPlanning Panel documentsIsland Oasis Marketing Material The yellow line shows the development site.

Developers are planning to dump a staggering 22.7 million tonnes of soil at Penrith Lakes in a controversial bid to raise the flood-prone site by up to three metres. The goal is to elevate the land to protect future developments from extreme flooding, but the proposal is already under fire.The site, located at 89-151 Old Castlereagh Road, sits within the Hawkesbury-Nepean floodplain, one of Australia’s most dangerous flood zones. The proposed changes would see the site raised by an average of 1.32 metres, with some areas elevated by nearly three metres. A consortium of major players, including Boral, Holcim, Hanson, and the Kerry Stokes-owned Seven Group owns the Penrith Lakes site. They want to develop the site for housing, commercial uses and recreation spaces however, its location on a floodplain has made these ambitions increasingly contentious.The developers submitted the proposal as a State Significant Development which effectively streamlines the planning process and bypasses local council assessment. They argue that raising the land levels would protect future development against a one-in-500-year flood, a measure far exceeding current planning levels.Developers already have approval to bring in 13 million tonnes of fill but want to increase this by 9.7 million tonnes, arguing it would safeguard the eastern portion of the site against catastrophic floods while causing “no fundamental change” to existing flood behaviour. However, many remain unconvinced.Regulators, including the Environmental Protection Authority, Penrith Council, and the Department of Planning, have called for detailed studies, particularly a comprehensive flood analysis. “The modification application as submitted proposes to import fill to enable part of the Penrith Lakes site to be flood-immune in the 0.2% AEP flood event,” wrote the Department of Planning in a letter to the developer. “The additional fill is proposed to be over the 0.2% AEP flood level for much of the site, with the fill being more than 2.5m above the identified 0.2% level. The Department requires rationale for filling to such a significant amount above the 0.2% flood level,” it said. The Department added it wanted more information about the proposed final landform at the site.Critics also point to the short exhibition time for public feedback. The community was given just 13 days to review and respond to the plans, which closed in late November.NSW Premier Chris Minns has publicly opposed building on flood-prone land, warning that such developments pose serious risks to safety, insurance, and financial stability. “You’re putting people and communities in danger,” Minns told the Hawkesbury Post in 2023. Despite these warnings, large-scale projects like Penrith Lakes continue to move forward, fuelling accusations of double standards.Tens of thousands of Hawkesbury residents, living below the one-in-500-year flood level, face heavy fines for importing fill to raise their flood-prone properties, while large developers appear to operate under far more lenient standards. A one-in-500-year flood would reach 20.2 metres at Windsor, surpassing the 19.7 metres recorded during the historic 1867 flood, the largest ever to hit the region.The developers’ report, prepared by consultants Water Technology, insists the project will have no major impact on flood behaviour at the site. However, the study fails to assess potential downstream impacts on Hawkesbury communities, nor does it consider the effects of climate change or changes to stormwater runoff. “Given these minor increases which occur in extreme flood events, the model results indicate no fundamental change to the existing flood behaviour at the site,” the report claims.The Penrith Lakes Scheme, established in 1987 under a Deed of Agreement with the NSW Government, was intended to transform the area into a model of urban living. However, shifting flood mapping and growing concerns about safety have repeatedly challenged this vision. Former Penrith MP Stuart Ayres, who once promoted the vision of homes “as far as your eye can see,” later reversed his stance, publicly stating that large-scale development was no longer feasible.Ayres now serves as CEO of the Urban Development Institute of Australia’s NSW branch, a vocal critic of stricter floodplain planning restrictions.The developer was granted approval in 2014 to bury 23,500 cubic metres of waste - including concrete, tyres, plastics, and demolition debris - on-site rather than removing it. This included 12,000 cubic metres of asphalt and road materials. The broader issue of flood management across the Hawkesbury-Nepean Valley remains unresolved. Successive governments have failed to deliver meaningful mitigation measures, from the controversial - and unfunded - Warragamba Dam wall proposal to debates over raising flood planning standards. Increasing these standards, such as shifting from one-in-100-year to one-in-200-year flood levels, could devastate property values in flood-prone areas, making insurance and banking services inaccessible.This artist's impression of the Penrith Lakes project was included in the new modification application by developer consultant ARUP.The maps below compare flood impacts at the site. The first illustrates current flood modelling depths for a 1:500 event, while the second shows the projected impact after adding 22 million tonnes of fill.The image below shows the current zoning at the site. The large pale blue area is currently unzoned.The map below shows the site subject to the new development application.

Our council belongs to the people of the Hawkesbury,” says Peter Ryan, Hawkesbury's newest councillor. Ryan noted, “During the last two election campaigns, I have listened to many Hawkesbury residents, and they have sent me a clear message: they are tired of the party influence in our council.”“The people own the council. It's not owned by a group or anyone else. It should be 12 independent individuals making decisions in the best interests of the people of the Hawkesbury, and that’s how it should be. There should be no other influences,” he told the Hawkesbury Post.Ryan’s comments come at a critical juncture for the council, which continues to operate as a Liberal/Labor bloc with support from the pro-development Mayor Les Sheather. This entrenched voting pattern has fueled frustration in the community, particularly as it has driven contentious decisions favoring developers and jeopardizing environmental preservation.Stepping into this fraught landscape, Ryan was appointed through a NSW Electoral Commission countback following councillor Tom Aczel’s resignation. He brings a wealth of local knowledge and a strong connection to the Hawkesbury. Representing the People Not Parties team alongside Councillor Mary Lyons-Buckett, Ryan aims to champion transparency, responsible development, adequate infrastructure and the region’s long-term sustainability.“I’m not against development, but the development must consider the existing residents living in that area and the impact on them and our unique environment,” he said. “The issues we address now will affect the future of the Hawkesbury for years to come, for example, the increasing pressure on the stormwater and river management, roads and footpaths up keep, the delivery of essential services and public transport, along with flood and fire evacuation routes to mention a few, we need to keep in mind the ongoing costs of these items. We need open and transparent discussions about all these and development.”Ryan acknowledged the challenges posed by recent developments, including those at Redbank and Freeman’s Reach, which have sparked community concern. While he has not yet examined every detail, he said there needs to be a coordinated approach.“We can’t have development without adequate infrastructure and services,” he said. “For instance, you can’t drive across the planned North Richmond Bridge; it needs to be in place first, along with the rest of the required roads and infrastructure, they needs to be fully completed before adding more pressure on the roads from development.”Environmental considerations are central to his approach. “Our rivers have become stormwater channels rather than the beautiful rivers I grew up swimming in,” he said. “We shouldn’t put undue pressure on everything just to complete a development. If someone approaches me with a development proposal, I want to hear solid reasons.”Ryan also believes the council must prioritise community engagement and youth opportunities. “We need to understand our community’s strengths and weaknesses and know where to go to find solutions to our problems,” he said. “We are here for the community. We should be working with the Community, we need to be among the people.”Ryan’s passion for the Hawkesbury stems from a deep personal connection. A lifelong Pitt Town resident, he’s the fifth generation of his family to live in the area. “I’ve lived in Pitt Town for most of my life. My father grew up here, as did my grandfather, great-grandfather, and great-great-grandfather,” he said. “So, I’m nearly a local at Pitt Town.”With a 24-year career in the New South Wales Police and extensive community involvement through the Pitt Town Progress Association, Ryan is no stranger to service. As he embarks on his term, he’s committed to making decisions not just for now but for future generations.Ryan’s experiences in the Hawkesbury, from his childhood spent on family farms to playing football at McQuade Park, along with doing his apprenticeship as a carpenter with a local builder, allowed him to work on several historical buildings in the area. This has helped shape his vision for preserving the Hawksbury’s unique character. His involvement in the Pitt Town Progress Association, inspired by his father’s leadership, being on the committee and president of the Pitt Town Soccer club and Chairman of the Pitt Town ANZAC Day Planning committee underpins his belief in fostering stronger ties between council and community.Ryan is passionate about creating opportunities for Hawkesbury’s youth. “We need spaces where young people can express themselves,” he said. “Whether it’s bike tracks, sporting facilities or creative hubs, providing positive outlets.”Married to Debbie, with four children and ten grandchildren, who all live in or around the Hawkesbury, Ryan credits his family’s support as vital to his work. “ They are my greatest supporters and by far my harshest critics,” he said.  

This year, the battle over the Hawkesbury’s future dominated headlines, with development pressures, community protests, and environmental concerns all coming to the fore.The issue of inappropriate development was a constant presence, and it’s clear the community is becoming more vocal. One small protest this year was enough to bring in the NSW riot squad - a stark sign of rising tensions. Residents have made it clear they don’t want more sprawling estates or poorly planned projects that strip away the Hawkesbury’s unique semi-rural character. Even some residents of the new estates are starting to object to additional development plans.Despite this, a slim majority of the council, led by a Liberal-Labor voting bloc and supported by pro-development Mayor Les Sheather, continues to push through projects that align more with developer interests than community wishes. Developers are watching closely, monitoring social media and what we write here at the Hawkesbury Post. For them, the financial stakes are enormous. For the Hawkesbury, the environmental consequences are permanent.The Richmond Bridge project has also sparked significant debate. The newly released design plans offer plenty to digest, with only a short window for public feedback. We now know that $500 million won't be enough for the project, which has already been scaled back. We also know, as we have previously pointed out, that building a massive piece of infrastructure over the lowest part of a floodplain is no easy feat. The latest flood report takes great pains to reassure the public that their design of the bridge and approaching road’s impact on surrounding areas will be minimal. This marks a striking departure from the findings of a 2020 flood study, which concluded that all proposed routes - except for the southern Purple Route - would create upstream flooding by effectively damming the floodplain.“The preliminary results showed that by raising the road crossing, the floodplain would block a significant quantity of flow, necessitating numerous culverts or floodplain bridges to meet flood impact requirements,” the January 2020 report stated. We have plenty of questions about the design reports an questions about the impact on upstream flooding haven’t gone away. The devil, as always, is in the details, and we’ll be keeping a close eye on this infrastructure project as it unfolds in 2025.Next year also brings a federal election, which could have big implications for the Hawkesbury. Boundary changes may tip the scales in favor of the Liberal Party, setting the stage for a tight contest between incumbent Susan Templeman and new Liberal candidate Mike Creed. Creed, who campaigned as pro-environment during the local elections, has also since supported developers on the Council. With so much at stake, this election will be one to watch closely.And while the stakes are high in the political arena, so too are the challenges we face as a local, independent publication. As our audience continues to grow, so too do the legal threats we face. Despite it being illegal to use the law to silence a publisher for commercial gain, this remains a tactic that some try to use. As fellow Independent publisher Michael West Media highlighted in June: “The most egregious threat we have seen this year is the attack on local publisher Hawkesbury Post to take stories about Council’s dealings with property developers down or be dragged into court.”Despite these challenges, our commitment to reporting the stories that matter to you remains unchanged and our independence allows us to do it freely.In 2025, the fight for the Hawkesbury’s future will only intensify. The community’s pushback against inappropriate development isn’t going away, and neither are the pressures from those looking to capitalise on the region. We’ll be here to cover it all, shedding light on the issues that matter most to you.Thank you for your support this year - your contributions and advertising make everything we do possible. We are 100% publisher-funded, meaning we don’t rely on government grants or subsidies. Hawkesbury Council doesn’t advertise with us, and we even manage to pay our own legal fees! As a small, local start-up, we rely entirely on the community’s support to keep delivering the trusted, local news you deserve. Your backing helps us shine a light on the issues shaping the Hawkesbury and ensures the voices of our community are heard.Here’s to a new year and the stories we’ll uncover together.Samantha MagnussonEditorFor as Little a Cup of Coffee You Can Support Local News As a small, local start-up, we rely entirely on the community’s support to keep delivering the trusted, local news you deserve. Your backing helps us shine a light on the issues shaping the Hawkesbury and ensures the voices of our community are heard

A 64-year-old man was taken into police custody last night (Monday night) after a stabbing incident in South Windsor.Emergency services were called to a house on Caldwell Street at about 7:20 pm, where officers from Hawkesbury Police Area Command found a 63-year-old man with stab wounds.The injured man was treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics at the scene before being transported to Nepean Hospital.Police established a crime scene and specialist officers secured the area.Police told the Hawkesbury Post that at approximately 9:10 pm, the 64-year-old man emerged from the property and was arrested. He was later taken to Blacktown Hospital.Investigations into the circumstances surrounding the incident are ongoing.For As Little a Cup of Coffee You Can Support Local News We Need Each Other. Donate today if You Can

Advice: Putty Road, Colo Heights Fire, Hawkesbury (LGA) – Stay Informed – Colo Heights, Mellong, WomerahA bushfire is burning near Putty Road in the Colo Heights area. Stay informed because conditions could change.The fire is burning in bushland east of Putty Road, approximately 5km south of Grassy Hill near the powerline easement, and is heading in a southerly direction towards Colo Heights.The fire is currently 9 hectares in size and is not yet controlled. Crews are working on the ground supported by aircraft.Stay informed because conditions could change. Follow your Bush Fire Survival Plan.Watch out for emergency services personnel and follow their directions.Roads may close without warning.Stay up to date on bush fires in your area by checking Hazards Near Me, the #RFS website: https://www.rfs.nsw.gov.au/ or by calling the RFS Bush Fire Information Line on 1800 679 737.

Workers constructing the new Richmond Bridge over the Hawkesbury River will be required to work from barges due to the water being so heavily contaminated with PFAS - dubbed "forever chemicals" - that it poses significant risks to human health and the environment. The extraordinary revelation, outlined in a Transport for NSW (TfNSW) report, highlights a glaring contradiction: government precautions for construction workers starkly contrast with ongoing assurances from the Premier and health officials about the safety of the region’s drinking water."To further minimise PFAS risk to human health, workers constructing the piers for the four-lane bridge from the Hawkesbury River would be in barges,” the report on the new bridge at Richmond stated.The Hawkesbury River, one of Australia’s most important urban waterways, supplies drinking water to tens of thousands of residents and is vital for agriculture, irrigation, and livestock production. Yet, the TfNSW findings reveal that PFAS levels in the Hawkesbury River exceed limits established under the 2020 National Environmental Management Plan (NEMP 2.0). Detailed on page 339 of the Richmond Bridge Stage 2 report, testing undertaken on behalf of TfNSW uncovered PFAS concentrations that breach outdated (conservative) thresholds, which have since been tightened globally to reflect the severe health risks posed by these chemicals.“...analytical results from the Hawkesbury River show that the PFAS concentration exceeded the adopted ecological health assessment criteria under the NEMP 2.0. If PFAS-contaminated water from the Hawkesbury River is reused during construction (such as for dust suppression), this could harm nearby waterways, flora and fauna in the area, and impact human health. This would be avoided. To further minimise PFAS risk to human health, workers constructing the piers for the four-lane bridge from the Hawkesbury River would be in barges,” the report stated. The document, signed off by senior NSW government bureaucrat Tim Webster appears to indicate that the government is well aware of the health risk to humans from PFAS exposure while maintaining public reassurances that Sydney’s drinking water remains safe.Sydney Water told the HP that it only tests for PFAS at its filtration plants, as only drinking water needs to meet the Australian drinking Water Guidelines (ADWG). Dams and rivers are raw water, not drinking water, and the ADWG doesn't apply to raw water.PFAS contamination in the Hawkesbury stems from decades of use of firefighting foams at RAAF Base Richmond. These chemicals have leached into groundwater, soil, and the river, spreading further with tides and floods. Associate Professor Ian Wright, an environmental scientist at Western Sydney University, previously told the Hawkesbury Post. “A very, very, very small amount of PFAS goes a long way. It’s like one eye-drop in 20 Olympic swimming pools that’s dangerous at that level. And the RAAF base used a lot of PFAS foams over a very long time.” PFAS bioaccumulate in the food chain, magnifying their impact. “This means that lower-level bugs eat the plant, then the chicken eats the bug, and the concentration builds up at higher concentrations each level you go,” Wright explained.These "forever chemicals" have been linked to cancers, including kidney, testicular, and thyroid, as well as other severe health conditions. Despite this, the Australian Department of Health maintains that evidence of harm is “limited.”The Richmond Bridge report also details plans for site inductions to inform workers about PFAS risks, surface water monitoring during construction, and management measures outlined in the project’s Construction Environmental Management Plan. “...Site inductions would inform workers about the PFAS risk. Additionally, surface water monitoring and/or management may be required during the construction program to manage potential ecological risks where required. This risk would be managed through implementation of a CEMP during construction as well as other safeguards and management measures outlined in Section 6.5.4” The Richmond Bridge Stage 2 report said.The Hawkesbury is not alone in facing PFAS contamination. Similar issues plague communities around military bases across Australia. The World Health Organisation has flagged PFAS as a cause of multiple cancers and other health issues, yet Australia while having recently updated its drinking water safety guidelines still lags behind global efforts to address the crisis.

TRAFFIC INCIDENT - WindsorAll directions traffic affected.Motorists traveling Windsor Wilberforce Road at Bridge Street/Freemans Reach Road be aware that a truck has crashed.Started today 4:46amAttendingEmergency servicesTransport for NSWHeavy vehicle tow truckAdviceExercise caution, allow extra travel time.Other AdviceThere is a diesel spill from this crashMore details to follow.

Plans for the long-awaited New Richmond Bridge have been unveiled, but a funding shortfall means parts of the project will be delayed until additional funds are secured.Transport for NSW confirmed that the $500 million allocated by federal and state governments will only cover the first stage of the project, known as Stage 2A. The second stage, Stage 2B, will remain on hold until more funds are sourced.“The proposal would be delivered in two stages, known as Stage 2A and Stage 2B,” a Transport for NSW report stated. “Should this REF be determined, and the already committed funding by the Australian Government and NSW Government released, Stage 2A would be constructed. This is expected to be complete by 2029. The timing of Stage 2B would be subject to available funding, and Transport will continue to seek funding in upcoming State and Federal budgets to deliver the rest of the upgrades.”Stage 2A, which is funded, features a new four-lane bridge over the Hawkesbury River, approximately 30 metres downstream of the existing bridge. The bridge will be built 10 metres higher than the current structure, designed to remain open during a 20-year flood event. The stage also includes:Widening of Bells Line of Road through North Richmond to create two lanes in each direction.A 1.7-kilometre bypass south of Richmond town centre, spanning the floodplain between Kurrajong Road and Castlereagh Road.A new shared path on the southern side of Kurrajong Road for pedestrians and cyclists.Conversion of the existing Richmond Bridge into an active transport route.Stage 2B, currently unfunded, will impact North Richmond and includes further widening of Bells Line of Road west of Charles Street and at Crooked Lane. Additionally parts of the project east of the river will also be impacted - a 1.3-kilometre bypass extension from Castlereagh Road to Londonderry Road, and upgrades to the Londonderry Road/Vines Drive intersection.The project’s Review of Environmental Factors (REF), the important hydrology report and designs are now on display, with Transport for NSW inviting community feedback until February 21, 2025. Construction of Stage 2A is set to begin in 2026. The Hawkesbury Post will provide additional coverage of the report over the next few weeks.Federal Member for Macquarie, Susan Templeman, encouraged residents to engage with the consultation process.“The release of the Review of Environmental Factors (REF) is the next stage of the journey which first started with the announcement I made with Anthony Albanese in 2010 for the first federal funding to tackle Richmond Bridge congestion and look into the options for a new bridge,” Ms Templeman said.“It’s great that people can now look at the proposed design for a new bridge and bypass of Richmond and provide their feedback. It’s important that the proposed four-lane bridge provides greater flood resilience than the current one and would remain open if flood events we have experienced since 2020 were repeated.“I urge all residents to take the time to read the REF, ask questions of the project team, and prepare their feedback by February 21, 2025.”For more information, residents can visit the Transport for NSW website to review the REF and view project designs. Community information sessions will be held in early February 2025.Become a Good Neighbour Support your local by giving great journalism a helping hand

Redbank’s development manager, Jock Douglas, is confident that Monday night’s extraordinary meeting called by Hawkesbury Council will not derail the company’s plans to progress their proposal to construct 300 - 350 new houses at Grose Vale.“We view the upcoming meeting as a procedural formality and do not anticipate any new developments from our side,” Douglas told the Hawkesbury Post.The meeting is an attempt by councillors who voted against the plan to allow more time for councillors and the public to consider the proposed housing development. At last week’s meeting, some councillors admitted they had not fully read the proposal documents before voting in favour of it, including new mayor Les Sheather.The rezoning proposal affects 35.41 hectares on Grose Vale Road. It would see primary production land rezoned residential, adding to the 1,399 lots already approved for Redbank. The new plan would allow housing lots to be subdivided into sizes ranging from 375m² to 1,500m².Hawkesbury Greens councillor Danielle Wheeler was highly critical of the plans.“This planning proposal is the beginning of a new round of subdivision applications that will irrevocably change the rural character of the Hawkesbury. For it to be pushed through this close to Christmas, before the Redbank Creek Flood Study has been completed, with no start date on the Grose River or Richmond bridges, and with so little time for the community to read the documentation and make their views known, is really very poor form by those councillors voting for this motion,” Clr.Wheeler told the Hawkesbury Post.“Hawkesbury is already on track to exceed our housing targets. This is not affordable housing, it’s not near transport, and it’s not what the community is telling us they want. It flies in the face of numerous State planning directions. It’s not our job to make developers happy. It’s our job to represent the community and do the best thing for the Hawkesbury,” she said.At the Council meeting last week, the Liberal-Labor alliance, with the support of Mayor Sheather, pushed the plans through. Councillors voting in favour were Sheather, Liberal councillors Mike Creed - who is also the new Liberal candidate for the federal seat of Macquarie - Sarah McMahon, Paul Veigel, and Jill Reardon, alongside Labor councillor Amanda Kotlash. Opposing the proposal were Independents Nathan Zamprogno and Mary Lyons-Buckett, Clr. Wheeler, and Shane Djuric from the Shooters, Fishers and Farmers Party. Independent councillor Eddie Dogramachi abstained from voting.The approval has sparked widespread criticism from residents and community groups, who claim they were blindsided by the proposal. Hawkesbury Council reportedly gave just four days for public review and submissions.In a statement to the Hawkesbury Post, Redbank said the new site willl integrate into the existing Redbank master planned development.“The Redbank Expansion Area is set to offer between 300 and 350 new homes, addressing urgent housing needs in the Hawkesbury region while maintaining a strong focus on sustainability and community wellbeing,” Redbank said.Despite these assurances, many residents strongly oppose the plans.Resident Tony Buccini wrote on Facebook, “This is an absolute joke. Do any of those councillors travel the route along Grose Vale Road and deal with the absolute chaos trying to navigate your way to North Richmond before you even get to the bridge? Not to mention the eyesore that this development has created for what was a beautiful rural setting. Why would any person with a real understanding of this issue vote to see more of it? Our roads, schools, shopping centres - none of it can handle an increased population. Council, just stop ignoring the obvious!”Another resident, Debbie Darlington, wrote, “What the hell! We don’t want any more houses here. Be prepared to lose all the trees along Grose Vale Road. They will cut them all down.”Resident Gary Smith added, “This is a real nightmare. This beautiful area I have called home for over 25 years is doomed. The real issue now is we need more infrastructure such as a new bridge, as many have called out. But if we get that infrastructure, then even significantly more development will quickly follow. I am just glad we have those Independent councillors that nearly every meeting are focused on what is best for the community rather than the major parties that generally aren’t.”Approximately 100 residents attended the December 10 meeting, while over 540 individuals submitted responses to a survey conducted by the community group Hawkesbury Environment Network (HEN). The survey revealed overwhelming opposition to the development, primarily citing concerns over inadequate infrastructure, traffic congestion, and issues related to flooding and fire.Speaking before the council, a HEN representative said there was a lack of services west of the Hawkesbury River, including no hospital or ambulance access, while another resident detailed existing flood damage from Redbank Creek.The meeting also saw heated debate among councillors. Clr. Wheeler proposed a motion to oppose the development outright, citing 11 specific concerns, including non-compliance with planning guidelines and potential public health risks. This motion was defeated. Clr. Lyons-Buckett moved to delay the decision, arguing that there had been insufficient time to review the reports. Despite support from Clr. Wheeler and other Independents, this motion also failed.Clr Lyons-Buckett told the Hawkesbury Post that the proposal relies on outdated data and questioned whether such zoning aligned with Council’s strategic goals. “Redbank’s move to rezone the land was always expected despite earlier promises that no further lots would be sought,” Clr Lyons-Buckett said.“...We submitted a rescission motion to give our fellow Councillors an opportunity to scrutinise the documentation in more detail, ask questions and listen to more community representation on this very important proposal,” she said.The site of the proposed development forms part of the historically significant Yobarnie Keyline Farm. This site is tied to the innovative Keyline system developed by P.A. Yeomans, a pioneer in sustainable farming. Despite the opposition, the December 10 vote cleared the way for the proposal to proceed to a Gateway determination by the Department of Planning. Tomorrow night’s extraordinary meeting is the last opportunity for councillors to reconsider their stance.Residents wishing to speak about the proposal at the meeting tomorrow night can find more information here: https://www.hawkesbury.nsw.gov.au/_resources/forms/address-council-meeting.

A young woman has lost her life in a single-vehicle crash on Tizzana Road, Ebenezer, early this morning.Emergency services were called to the scene around 7 am today, December 13, 2024, following reports that a grey Kia sedan had collided with a utility pole.Police from Hawkesbury Police Area Command arrived to find the driver, a woman believed to be in her late teens and the car's sole occupant, deceased at the scene.Authorities have established a crime scene, and investigations into the circumstances of the crash are underway. A report will be prepared for the Coroner.[stock photo: SCM Jeans]

Hawkesbury Council voted last night to support a planning proposal that would expand the Redbank development in Grose Vale, paving the way for up to 350 additional housing lots.The proposal will now progress to the next stage, known as a “Gateway determination,” which is assessed by the Department of Planning.The Liberal/Labor alliance with the help of newly elected, Liberal-aligned Mayor Les Sheather voted to push the plans to the next stage of the approval process. Councillors voting in favor were Les Sheather, Liberal Councillors Mike Creed, Sarah McMahon, Paul Veigel, and Jill Reardon, alongside Labor Councillor Amanda Kotlash. Opposing the proposal were Independents Nathan Zamprogno and Mary Lyons-Buckett, Greens Councillor Danielle Wheeler, and Shane Djuric from the Shooters, Fishers and Farmers Party.The expansion involves rezoning 35.41 hectares of land at Kemsley Park to add to the 1,399 lots already approved for Redbank. Currently zoned RU4 (Primary Production), the land would be reclassified into R2 and R5 residential zones, with some areas set aside as RE1 for public recreation.The site, located along Grose Vale Road, is part of the historically significant Yobarnie Keyline Farm. This farm was central to the innovative Keyline system developed by Percival A. Yeomans (1905–1984), which revolutionized Australian farming through improved soil health, water management, erosion control, and sustainable practices.The proposed Masterplan includes the removal of two dams, with one to remain. Lot sizes would range from 375m² to 1,500m², with smaller lots concentrated centrally and larger ones planned along the northwest perimeter.Subject site and surrounding Redbank development

Fireworks can bring joy to many, but they can also cause serious distress and safety issues - especially for horse owners in the Hawkesbury. Council’s draft Fireworks Policy isn’t about banning fireworks; it’s about creating a framework to ensure they’re safe and suitable for our community.By sharing your views, you’re giving Council the tools to object when proposed fireworks could be disruptive or harmful. This is your chance to shape a policy that balances celebration with consideration.Submit your feedback now and make sure your voice is part of the decision! Don’t wait - time’s running out. Submissions close 23rd December, 2024.You can read the draft policy here - https://www.yourhawkesbury-yoursay.com.au/draft-fireworks-policy

Hawkebsury Council will vote tomorrow night (Tuesday 10th December) whether to support a planning proposal to expand the Redbank development by rezoning 35.41 hectares of land, known as ‘Kemsley Park,’ to allow for up to 350 additional housing lots. The site, located along Grose Vale Road and formerly owned by the Peel family, is currently zoned RU4 (Primary Production). The proposed rezoning would create R2 and R5 residential zones, with a portion designated RE1 for public recreation. Kemsley Park, historically part of the Yobarnie Keyline Farm.The Masterplan indicates the removal of two dams, with one to remain. The lots would range in size from 375m² to 1,500m², with smaller lots dominating and larger ones planned for the northwest perimeter. This proposal would add to the 1,399 lots already approved for Redbank. It follows a recent Council decision to amend zoning, including allowing additional retail space, as part of a ‘housekeeping’ update to the Local Environmental Plan (LEP). You can read the plans here (Item 10). The recommendation in the business paper is for Council to endorse the proposal, enabling it to proceed to a Gateway determination by the Department of Planning.A spokesperson for Redbank said: “This expansion aligns with the goals of both Hawkesbury City Council and the NSW Government, supporting the region’s housing strategy and enhancing the quality of life for residents. Additionally, the project contributes to the Federal Government’s Housing Accord, which aims for “key in the door” housing solutions rather than just rezoned land. With a proven track record, Redbank Communities is well-positioned to help meet this national housing initiative, delivering homes that are ready for residents to move in and start building their lives.” “The planning proposal will go through various stages of the government approval process. At a later stage, it will be placed on public exhibition, giving the community an opportunity to review the details and provide their input.”The community can follow the debate live by attending the meeting in person at the Hawkesbury Council Chambers in Windsor at 6:30 pm tomorrow, or by streaming it online via the Council’s Facebook page.The proposed expansion. Image supplied by Redbank.

On July 14 Windsor Police took out a Interim Apprehended Domestic Violence Order (ADVO) against former Mayor Sarah McMahon, four months later without explaination they withdrew the order originally placed to protect her ex-boyfriend Matthew Bennett.The failure by Windsor Police to inform Bennett about the withdrawal of the ADVO represents a troubling lapse in duty of care. While the reasons for the ADVO’s withdrawal remain unclear, the lack of communication with Bennett raises serious concerns about the handling of domestic violence cases and whether alleged victims are adequately protected.As the protected party under the interim ADVO, Bennett was left to discover its withdrawal not through the authorities responsible for his safety but via friends and media reports. This is not a mere oversight; it is a fundamental failure. When an ADVO is withdrawn, notifying the person it was meant to protect should be an absolute priority. Failing to do so is more than neglectful; it undermines the entire purpose of such orders and even worse could present a serious risk to the protected person. Unfortunately, this failure by Windsor Police is far from isolated. According to lawyers and domestic violence workers spoken to by the Hawkesbury Post, it is an all too common scenario.The silence from NSW Police on this matter is notable. NSW Police wouldn’t answer questions from the Hawkesbury Post citing a “no comment” on matters relating to domestic violence. Why was the ADVO withdrawn? Why wasn’t Bennett notified of its withdrawal? Even if there are valid reasons behind these actions, maintaining public trust requires a certain level of transparency. Without it, speculation is inevitable - and ultimately, damaging.Compounding the issue, McMahon’s public comments (posted to her official Facebook account on 21 November 2024) about a "weaponised" domestic violence system add another layer of complexity. Her remarks, intentional or not, risk undermining the credibility of those who come forward with genuine complaints and further highlight the questionable handling of this matter by the police.It is impossible to ignore the question of whether this outcome might have been different if the alleged victim were a woman. Domestic violence transcends gender, yet male victims often faceless attention and empathy. Bennett’s experience underscores systemic biases that must be addressed, regardless of the specifics of this case.As Australia grapples with a domestic violence epidemic, police procedures must prioritise the protection of alleged victims. By failing to inform Bennett, the police have not only let him down but also jeopardised trust in a system meant to safeguard vulnerable individuals.Transparency and accountability are the foundations of public trust in policing. Without them, the credibility of the entire system is undermined. Windsor police owe Bennett, and the community, answers. Until then, public confidence in the system will again be tested.

The NSW state government has announced sweeping planning reforms it claims will address the housing crisis by fast-tracking the construction of new homes. Touted as the largest rezoning initiative in the state’s history, the reforms include a new approval pathway that removes councils from decision-making processes for some major residential projects. While the government insists these changes will expedite housing delivery and alleviate cost-of-living pressures, the move has sparked widespread backlash from councils and community advocates.Under the reforms, set to take effect in early 2025, development proposals meeting certain criteria will no longer require council approval. Instead, they will be assessed by a new Housing Delivery Authority (HDA) within the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure. This unprecedented power shift has raised concerns about the potential for inappropriate developments, reduced community input, and diminished local oversight.At the Local Government Conference in Tamworth last month, more than 500 council delegates condemned the changes. Delegates voiced alarm at the erosion of local government powers, arguing that the reforms cater to developers at the expense of communities diminishing their ability to influence planning decisions in their community.Councillor Mary Lyons-Buckett said she had grave concerns over the announcement, calling it another blow to local democracy.  “The proposed changes reduce local input and community voices even further as this presents another in a long line of changes favouring developers over local people,” she said. “Further erosion of local democracy.”  Councillor Nathan Zamprogno was also critical of the plans. “The Liberal State Government took away the people’s control, through the elected Chamber, over assessing D.A’s back in 2017, but we still had some control over the approval of some larger proposals like the large scale housing developments proposed west of the river. Now Chris Minns wants to to fast-track developments without any democratic accountability at all.”The reforms will establish a state-led approval pathway for housing developments exceeding $60 million in Greater Sydney or $30 million in regional NSW, translating to projects averaging 100 homes and 40 homes respectively. The government asserts this will streamline the process by allowing rezonings and development assessments to occur simultaneously, reducing approval times by years.  The Premier defended the changes as a bold step toward solving the housing crisis.  “The Minns Government is doing everything in its power to tackle the housing crisis and encourage developers to build and boost housing supply and overall affordability,” he said.  “These latest reforms mean the State is taking control of major housing projects so that they have the attention they deserve and get through the assessment process much faster.”  Critics argue that the reforms prioritise developers’ interests over community needs. By sidelining councils, opponents fear that communities will lose the ability to shape their neighborhoods and protect against overdevelopment. The removal of council oversight, they say, risks allowing unsuitable projects to proceed unchecked.  Delegates at the Tamworth conference also warned that the fast-tracking process, while aimed at reducing bureaucracy, could undermine critical safeguards and result in poorly planned developments. Many expressed frustration that the state government continues to centralise power, leaving local councils with less ability to represent the communities they represent.  Despite government assurances that the reforms will alleviate councils’ workloads by removing complex applications, opponents remain skeptical. “This is about more than just streamlining processes it’s the government caving in once again to the powerful property lobby group,” one delegate said. “ We need to be ensuring communities have a say in how their towns and cities evolve.”  The Housing Delivery Authority, a key pillar of the reforms, will include senior state officials such as Simon Draper, Secretary of the Premier’s Department; Kiersten Fishburn, Secretary of the Department of Planning; and Tom Gellibrand, CEO of Infrastructure NSW. The authority will oversee projects qualifying for the state-led approval pathway, with the Minister for Planning and Public Spaces serving as the ultimate consent authority.  Proposals will be assessed on their merit with a “flexible approach” to planning controls, including incremental zoning changes. The government claims this dual process will remove barriers and deliver much-needed housing more quickly.  “Proposals in this pathway will not be required to be considered by councils for development and will benefit from an approval timeline that is potentially reduced by years,” a statement from the government said.

When Dave Graham, known to many as “Farmer Dave,” announced on Facebook last month that he’d packed up and moved further west to escape the urban encroachment plaguing Western Sydney and the Hawkesbury, it struck a chord with more than 2,200 people.Previously a resident of Box Hill and later Grantham Farm, this is the third time in 15 years that Dave has relocated to escape the rapid urbanisation eroding the last traces of farmland in the Sydney Basin, permanently altering the open spaces and rural lands that once defined the region. “When you live in Western Sydney, a reality is that the city keeps growing,” Dave told his Facebook followers. “As it has since 1788. More and more people are choosing Australia as home, which means I’ve got to keep moving. For the third time in 15 years, I’ve picked up stumps and moved further west to escape urban encroachment.”The decision came as Dave realised that the relentless development surrounding him was directly affecting his mental health. “It just started getting too much,” he admits. “It was about, it was about year and a half ago, when, we really did get developed out, and it was the increase in the traffic, it was the increase in the noise that was just unrelenting, and you no longer felt like you were in the Hawkesbury, like you're very much in just another part of Sydney. It was a progressional thing, but it did become unbearable towards the end,” he told The Hawkesbury Post.Dave’s journey has been nothing short of transformative. Earlier this year, he parted ways with RuffTRACK after five years of dedicated service - a decision that marked a significant turning point in his life. "Burnout is real, and it creeps up on you until you can't ignore it anymore," he reflects.  Since then, Dave has made remarkable changes: becoming completely sober, shedding 25kg, and spending much more quality time with his five children. His focus has been on rebalancing his life. "I poured an overwhelming amount of energy into building a lasting community service, and I feel confident it’s now in the hands of passionate people who will ensure its continued success," he says.Recently, Dave relocated to a peaceful ridge in Glossodia, seeking refuge in an area buffered by natural bushland and protected farmland.The response to his move was immediate and overwhelming, with many followers echoing similar sentiments. “That was our life until I got sick with leukemia,” one person wrote. Another added, “I moved from Rouse Hill after 25 years… place was becoming a nightmare.”Dave’s story mirrors the struggles of many rural residents on Sydney’s western fringe. Initially drawn to Box Hill for its open landscapes and strong sense of community, he says the area changed almost beyond recognition in just a few years.“The first time I moved was from Box Hill. And you know, that was a beautiful paradise only a few years back. There were Maltese market gardens, there were cattle, poultry and sheep farms. You felt really connected and now you can jump roof to roof and get from one side of Box Hill to the other now without leaving the roofs of houses,” he said.After leaving Box Hill, Dave moved to Riverstone’s Grantham Farm, where he set up RuffTRACK, a youth re-engagement programme that connected troubled young people with animals and the land. But even in the relative peace of Grantham Farm, urban expansion quickly followed. "One minute, streetlights were blaring through my window, making it hard to sleep. Then, houses started popping up on all sides, followed by a beautiful, big shopping Center across the road. Soon, it took up to ten minutes just to get out of the driveway because of traffic on Windsor Road. As a Bushy, I felt completely hemmed in."Growing up on a 100,000-acre property in southwest Queensland, Dave had always valued wide-open spaces and was feeling “caged in” and knew his mental health was suffering.“I was feeling that same thing. You know, it's just been hemmed in and caged in. So, my mental health was really suffering, and I could see that chain effect onto the young people as all of those developments started to pop up around what was a beautiful Wandin Valley. And I really feel like we're losing Wandin Valley to the concrete jungle.”He attributes much of the youth disengagement he deals with to the same kind of suffocating yet disconnected environment."A critical part of what we did when I was at RuffTRACK was connect kids to the country and community, giving them space to express themselves without judgment. We achieved this through the power of animals, dogs, and working with the land - growing food crops. It requires space, and it worked incredibly well. Over 150 young people came through my programmes, transforming their lives by developing connection skills and finding a real sense of belonging."Finding solace in Glossodia, Dave has moved onto a five-acre property 'Cooee Ranch', that offers the open space he had been craving. Surrounded by eucalyptus trees and overlooking flood-protected farmland, it feels like a sanctuary. “This wonderful place out here came up that is surrounded on all three sides by gum trees and an iron barks. And it's got everything that you would possibly want on a ridge above all the beautiful farmland that we know will never get developed out thankfully, because we have this beautiful thing called floods.”This new home also gave Dave the opportunity to continue working in a more tailored capacity with High-Risk Youths and his high-energy dog programs in a setting more suited to his programme’s needs."It's a home for DockDogs Australia, a sport that engages people with high-energy dogs. My focus is on supporting those who don’t fit the mold - whether that’s young people or dogs with intense energy giving them space to express themselves. Here, we do activities like K9 SuperWall, dog parkour, and k9 Ninja. It's a place for people to channel their dogs’ energy positively and have fun with them, using positive reinforcement."Dave's unique youth work approaches have become a lifeline for many young people who feel disconnected from society. Dave firmly believes that the space allows them to escape the pressures of urban life, reconnect with country, community and develop meaningful skills.Reflecting on the broader trend, Dave emphasises that the loss of rural areas is about more than just land, it’s about the future, the loss of connection with our country and what it provides us.“It’s really a problem not to see where our food comes from, to drive through farmland at the very least. Once you’re in the Sydney basin, it’s easy to forget that connection. There’s something grounding about driving past vegetable farms, orchards, and livestock, it reminds us of our link to the land. When we lose that, what are we?”“Already, farmers beyond the Great Dividing Range feel disconnected from city consumers; many city people no longer visit or even have country cousins.“But if, in the Hawkesbury, at least if people are driving to the local and Blue Mountains townships. They drive through farmland. They see their food, where it's grown, understanding through osmosis the change in seasons. They're at least connected in some capacity, and that helps our mental health, because you see where your food comes from. It's right there you've driven past, the orchards, the livestock, the market gardeners,” he said.As for Dave’s own move, he’s not looking back."Look, you've got to put your own oxygen mask on first, right? We all know that I had a personal break after I left RuffTRACK to focus on my own mental health. To give my best mentorship and guidance to these vulnerable young people who are desperate for it - kids who often turn to gangs or the wrong crowd because they’re looking for someone who cares, who values them and who sees them as the journey through trials of teenage hood. I need to be in the best possible headspace for that, but being surrounded by the urban insanity was no longer working for me.""And now, you're in a much better place now mentally?""Oh, absolutely. It’s fantastic."

Federal Member for Macquarie Susan Templeman has intensified her campaign for improved postal services following the closure of the Kurmond Local Post Office, challenging Australia Post to address mounting community frustrations.Residents have reported significant delays and difficulties collecting parcels since the local post office closure in September. "Residents from the Kurmond and Kurrajong areas have reported very long and frustrating wait times in accessing parcels," Templeman stated in a media release. "I've raised the complaints that I've received with Australia Post. This week, when I met with them in Parliament House, I again stressed the urgency to have this matter addressed."Speaking to Hawkesbury Post, Templeman said: "The closure of the Kurmond Post Office has thrust the community into a logistical challenge, with residents facing increasingly lengthy parcel collection processes.""The closure of Kurmond PO has had flow-on effects across multiple other post office locations, and there's no doubt the community deserves greater convenience for their package deliveries," she said. The bulk of parcels have been redirected to Kurrajong Post Office. Many people have reported using the Australia Post app to redirect their parcel deliveries to alternative post offices like Grose Vale and North Richmond. On Facebook, Karen Chapman wrote: "Download (the) Australia Post app and choose another post office to pick up all your parcels. It works well. I go to Grose Vale, no wait.” HP is aware of several others who have similarly redirected their parcels away from the Kurrajong Post Office to ease the pressure on wait times for themselves and others. On Facebook, Lyndon Russo suggested that "A larger shop front (for Kurrajong PO) might help as well as more staff," anticipating that the situation will only intensify as Christmas approaches.An excerpt from one email to Susan Templeman (posted publicly on social media) reads: "There is no need to offer to you this is a disaster - adding to the lack of infrastructure west of "the river". With the increasing population, the strain on the options offered is unimaginable, all of which are overloaded….with the ever-expanding Redbank & Belmont & Grose Vale (over) developments alone, it beggars belief how residents using that outlet will cope."Kurrajong Franchisee Mark Robinson insists the impact has been minimal. "Kurmond closing has hardly had any effect on Kurrajong PO load. It's about 7% extra work!" he wrote on Facebook on Thursday, 28 November, attributing the current challenges to the peak Black Friday and Christmas shopping periods.Community feedback tells a more nuanced story. Ryan Winter's frustrated Facebook post captures the sentiment of many: "The issue isn't the post office; the issue is the sub-standard delivery we accept in our area. The fact that it's 2024 and we can't get Australia Post to deliver a parcel to our properties, but Amazon can do it for free in 2 days is an absolute embarrassment."Templeman told the Hawkesbury Post: "I have been advocating for Australia Post to improve access to parcel deliveries and install parcel lockers at various locations well before the closure of the Kurmond post office."Proposed bespoke parcel lockers aim to provide residents with 24/7 package access, addressing current collection inefficiencies. However, there needs to be more clarity about their exact location, with conflicting statements from Mark Robinson and Australia Post. While Robinson suggested installation at Kurrajong Post Office "in coming weeks", an Australia Post email to one resident indicates plans for a locker at the Kurmond BP Station: "At present, Australia Post has plans to deploy a parcel Locker at the Kurmond BP Station and at present working with the network to support the community and the Post Office through the peak Christmas period," it said. Not all community members are critical. Kurby Kurby offered a more philosophical perspective on social media, imploring people to "Be kind and think of other people's situations," reminding fellow residents that compassion should prevail even in frustrating circumstances.Templeman remains committed to her advocacy. “Having a parcel sent to you shouldn't be a stressful or inconvenient experience, and Australia Post has the means to make it better in Hawkesbury," she said.

The December Edition of The Hawkesbury Post is out NOW!For a copy of the paper head to your local newsagent, service station, supermarket or read it online or on The Hawkesbury App.Our biggest issue yet, with 48 pages featuring some great investigative stories, Council's response to the Kmart trees and the local business awards "Winner's Feature".Happy reading.