In the November edition of the Hawkesbury Post and online in October we published an article titled -”Shocking Photos Reveal The Devastating Truth of Landclearing”. We reported that the photos were allegedly taken at the Redbank development, with the caveat that we could not verify where the photo was taken. Since then, we have verified that the image was not captured at Redbank but at an unrelated location. 

Commuters using the Sackville Ferry will need to plan for delays as the service pauses daily from 9:30 am to 2:30 pm between Monday, 25 November, and Thursday, 28 November 2024. Transport for NSW has confirmed that the disruption is due to essential maintenance aimed at improving the safety and efficiency of the crossing.  Commuters will need to take alternate routes during the closure, which may significantly increase travel times, according to a statement from Transport for NSW.  Drivers can detour to the Lower Portland Ferry, adding around 20 minutes to their journey. For those on the eastern side of the river, River Road provides an option, while motorists west of the river can use West Portland Road. Alternatively, detouring through Windsor could add approximately 35 minutes to the trip, with eastern-side drivers taking Sackville Ferry Road, Wisemans Ferry Road, and Cattai Road, and those on the western side using Sackville Road.  Emergency services will retain access to the Sackville crossing during the work hours, but a delay of about 20 minutes is expected while the ferry is reset to allow for crossings, according to Transport for NSW.  The maintenance will involve concrete being poured over the beams at the ferry approach, which are used for mooring during high tides and emergencies. “Transport is improving the durability of the beams at the ferry approach, which are used for mooring during high tides and emergencies. We will be covering the beams with concrete, increasing safety for all ferry users and our workers,” Transport for NSW said in a statement.While the scheduled work is expected to conclude by 28 November, adverse weather conditions, including wind, flooding, and tides, may extend the timeline. “Our working hours are 9:30 am to 2:30 pm. When carrying out work on ferry crossings, conditions such as wet weather, wind, tides, and flooding can slow or stop the work. For these reasons, the scheduled work times provided can change or be extended. If works at Sackville Ferry crossing are complete before Thursday, 28 November, ferry service will run as normal,” Transport for NSW said. Transport for NSW is urging commuters to plan their journeys and allow extra time during the maintenance period. Live updates on ferry operations and traffic conditions will be available via Live Traffic NSW at 132 701 or livetraffic.com

A 17-year-old boy has died following a collision involving a hatchback and a truck early this morning on Wilberforce Road, near Freemans Reach Road.  Emergency services were called to the scene at around 4:35 am on Tuesday. Police from Hawkesbury Police Area Command arrived to find the two vehicles had collided, with the hatchback’s driver pronounced dead at the scene. The boy is yet to be formally identified.  The truck driver, whose age is unknown, was uninjured. He was taken to Nepean Hospital for mandatory testing as investigations into the circumstances of the crash begin.  Wilberforce Road is now open after being closed between the roundabout at Freemans Reach Road and Rose Street, where police established a crime scene. A report will be prepared for the Coroner.  Police are urging anyone with information about the incident to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit the NSW Crime Stoppers website.

Hawkesbury City Council spent $75,000 last financial year handling complaints under the official "Code of Conduct," yet ratepayers remain in the dark about the specifics. Despite the considerable time and money involved, the process is cloaked in secrecy, with no details provided about who was investigated, the nature of the breaches, or the outcomes.  Eleven complaints were lodged against councillors or the general manager in the year ending August 31, 2024, according to Hawkesbury Council documents. Of these, seven were referred to a conduct reviewer, with five resolved at a preliminary stage. Four out of five investigations were discontinued, and one councillor was formally censured for breaches of multiple clauses of the Code. The matter was escalated to the Office of Local Government under the misconduct provisions of the Local Government Act.  The censured councillor was found to have violated standards prohibiting conduct likely to bring the council into disrepute, intimidate or verbally abuse others, or constitute harassment or bullying, among other breaches. Despite the severity of these findings, the identity of the councillor and the specific circumstances remain undisclosed, consistent with the confidentiality provisions of the complaints process.  Hawkesbury’s handling of misconduct complaints reflects wider issues in the governance of local councils across New South Wales. While the Model Code of Conduct is intended to establish minimum standards for councillor behaviour, a 2022 review commissioned by the former state government found the framework deeply flawed. The report criticised the system for lacking consistency, timeliness, and independence and noted the Office of Local Government’s limited capacity to address ongoing problems effectively. Despite operating for over a decade, the current framework has failed to reduce the volume of complaints or improve public confidence in the process.  Statewide, there were 1,143 complaints against councillors in the 2022/23 financial year. While some councils manage their conduct issues effectively, others have become repeat offenders. The State Government says the current code of conduct framework is overly complex, distracts from robust democratic debate and is being increasingly weaponised for political reasons. Changes proposed to streamline the Code would see minor complaints about councillor misbehaviour dealt with by a councillor’s peers and leave serious matters relating to conflicts of interest to be examined by the Office of Local Government. 

After years of delays, Hawkesbury Council has approved the long-awaited Grose River Bridge project, estimating that construction will take about three years to complete. The controversial bridge is intended to ease the traffic burden caused by the Redbank development and the addition of 1,399 new housing lots west of the Hawkesbury River.Originally proposed to accommodate increased traffic, the bridge now faces a vastly larger challenge. A decade since its inception, developments in the area have surged, and more than 7,000 new homes planned or seeking approval west of the river- potentially transforming the semi-rural landscape into a sprawling outer suburb of Western Sydney. The full story on the housing developments is available - https://hawkesburypost.com.au/hawkesbury-braces-for-7000-strong-housing-onslaught/ .Whether the government or planning authorities have adequately accounted for the infrastructure needs of this future population remains unclear.In a statement, Hawkesbury Council said, “The bridge is being built in partnership between Redbank Communities, Transport for NSW and Hawkesbury City Council as part of a Voluntary Planning Agreement between Redbank and Council."The bridge and connecting roads will provide a crossing between Grose River Road at Grose Wold with Springwood Road at Yarramundi. Extensive community consultation has been conducted in the finalisation of this plan."With the finalisation of the development application, the project now moves into the land acquisition phase for the new bridge and road. The land acquisition process is expected to take approximately 18 months, with an 18-month construction program commencing soon after, HCC said.Plans are available on Council’s DA Tracker at https://www.hawkesbury.nsw.gov.au/plan-and-build/current-and-past-applications/da-tracking.

A man has been charged with the murder of his girlfriend after her body was found at the Pullman Hotel in Penrith on Sunday.Emergency services were called to a hotel on Mulgoa Road about 1.10pm on Sunday 10 November 2024, after the discovery of the body of Shirley So, in the same room as a man suffering cuts to his arms.The man 53-year old Darren John Berry was treated by NSW Ambulance paramedics before being airlifted to Westmead Hospital for further treatment.Officers attached to Nepean Police Area Command established a crime scene, with inquiries conducted by local detectives, assisted by State Crime Command’s Homicide Squad.Following inquiries under Strike Force Marree, detectives yesterday charged Berry with murder.He was refused bail at a bedside Court hearing today (Tuesday 12 November 2024) and will appear before Penrith Local Court today.

It's back! Prepare to embark on a Hawkesbury treasure hunt like no other as Australia's largest secondhand shopping festival, the Garage Sale Trail, returns across two weekends in November. This fun-filled community event is where one person's pre-loved items become another's cherished finds. There are already 10 registered sales in the Hawkesbury, and residents can look forward to discovering unique pieces, from vintage collectibles to practical household items, all while contributing to a more sustainable future.Last year, more than 400,000 Australians participated in more than 14,000 garage sales nationwide, saving a massive 4.8 million kilos of items from landfills. Beyond the environmental impact, the 2023 trial generated over $3.6 million for participating households and community groups.This year's Garage Sale Trail runs over two weekends - November 9-10 and November 16-17—giving treasure hunters and sellers multiple opportunities to snag a bargain, declutter your space and make some extra cash, or raise funds for your local sporting club or community group. Interested people can visit garagesaletrail.com.au to register their sale or map out their treasure-hunting route through local sales.

Years after its approval, the Redbank development in North Richmond remains one of the Hawkesbury’s most divisive projects, its legacy tainted by accusations of political favoritism, backroom deals, and irreversible environmental change. What was once rural farmland west of the river has become a sprawling suburban estate, permanently altering the landscape and paving the way for further developments that many argue would never be approved under today’s standards - and never should have been approved back then.At the center of this controversy was former Liberal MP and Hawkesbury mayor, Bart Bassett, whose involvement in the project raised serious concerns about political influence over local planning decisions. The saga became a focal point of an Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) investigation, casting a long shadow over the development’s origins.The Redbank project, spearheaded by developer Nathan Tinkler's firm Buildev, aimed to transform farmland on the outskirts of Richmond into a large-scale residential estate. Touted as a suburban oasis blending rural charm with modern conveniences, Redbank Communities sought approval for significant zoning changes to repurpose agricultural land for residential use. In 2012, Hawkesbury City Council approved the rezoning, despite concerns from residents, other councillors and environmental advocates who warned about the loss of farmland, flooding issues and pressure on local infrastructure.However, the approval soon became mired in allegations of improper political donations and backroom dealings. ICAC’s 2014 Operation Spicer inquiry into illegal donations by property developers to Liberal Party candidates brought Redbank into the spotlight. ICAC investigated whether Buildev, with financial stakes in the Redbank development, funneled money into political campaigns to sway decisions in their favor. One of the key figures under investigation was Bassett, who had been the Hawkesbury mayor and a state Liberal MP during critical stages of the Redbank rezoning process.The inquiry revealed that Buildev had directed $18,000 through another Tinkler company - the Free Enterprise Foundation, to Bassett’s 2011 state election campaign, a clear breach of New South Wales laws prohibiting political donations from property developers.Evidence also emerged that Bassett, while serving as mayor in May 2011, voted in favor of a residential land strategy that would benefit Buildev’s interests. These revelations cast doubt on whether the development had received approval on merit or due to political influence. Buildev co-founder Darren Williams was asked by Counsel assisting ICAC, Geoffrey Watson SC, during ICAC hearings, whether Bassett was in a position where he could assist Buildev. Williams told the inquiry: “You could assume that.”Watson replied; “It’s a hard cold fact that he could vote on council in favour of a Buildev proposal, correct?” “Yes,” Williams replied. Williams then told the inquiry at least some of Bassett’s funding for his election campaign had come from Buildev.Documents tendered to the ICAC show that years before Mr Bassett became a Member of Parliament, top Buildev executives met him at home and attempted to use political connections to "neutralise" critical voices on Hawkesbury council.Bassett defended his actions at the ICAC hearings, maintaining that his votes were based on council staff recommendations and denying that political donations influenced his decisions. “I reject this allegation and I look forward to my opportunity to clear my name,” Bassett said. “In the meantime I have decided to stand aside from the Parliamentary Liberal Party.”However, public skepticism remained high. In response to the growing scandal, Bassett was exiled to the parliamentary crossbench while the investigation unfolded. ICAC did not make findings of corruption against Bassett, though the inquiry undeniably tainted the Redbank project’s image. Bassett consults for Redbank today, and remains the President of a Hawkesbury Branch of the Liberal Party.Photo: Bart Bassett leaving the ICAC hearings in 2014.Amid the ICAC hearings, Hawkesbury City Council convened an extraordinary meeting to address the mounting public outrage over Redbank. Councillors voted to request that the NSW Government freeze any development applications for the project until ICAC had completed its investigation. Councillor Christine Paine, who was a councillor at the time, called for the freeze, and said; “The community is very angry, very disenfranchised with council, so this might start healing a little bit.”The motion to freeze Redbank was met with significant community support. Around 150 residents packed the council chamber, with many speaking out against the development. Kim Smith, a local organiser from the group ‘Hawkesbury Rates Disgrace’, said, “All they are asking is that any further developments out in North Richmond are put on hold until the ICAC releases their findings so that we know everything is above board.”Despite the council’s call for a freeze, Hawkesbury Mayor Kim Ford was the sole Councillor to oppose the motion. Ford was Bassett’s campaign director in 2011, and was parachuted into Council without a Liberal preselection at a 2010 by-election occasioned by the death of Mayor Rex Stubbs. Ford insisted that the planning processes had been “open and transparent all the way,” and that there had been no “backroom deals” or improper actions in the approval of Redbank.Meanwhile, Buildev had sold its stake in the Redbank project to the North Richmond Joint Venture (NRJV) in 2012. The NRJV maintained that it had never made any unlawful political donations and was not under investigation by ICAC. Nevertheless, the ICAC inquiry has sparked widespread distrust among Hawkesbury residents about the development, with many questioning the legitimacy of its approval process.

A man remains under police guard tonight as investigators work to determine the circumstances surrounding a woman’s death at a Penrith hotel earlier today. Emergency services were called to a hotel on Mulgoa Road at around 1:10 pm on Sunday, after a woman’s body was found in one of the rooms alongside a man with serious injuries.The man, believed to be in his 50s, was discovered with deep cuts to his arms. NSW Ambulance paramedics treated him at the scene before he was airlifted to Westmead Hospital, where he remains in critical condition.Police have yet to formally identify the woman, and her cause of death is under investigation. Officers from Nepean Police Area Command established a crime scene, with detectives from the command and the Homicide Squad now leading inquiries into the incident.Police are urging anyone with information to contact Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000 or through their website https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au.

Sydney Water and the Hawkesbury City Council operate the four water treatment plants in the Hawkesbury. They take in wastewater and sewage from across the region. Out the other end come two treated by-products: recycled “grey water” and sludge, also known as biosolids. The recycled water and sludge that these facilities produce are not tested for the cancer-causing PFAS chemicals - a group of nearly 15,000 Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances. PFAS are referred to as forever chemicals because they do not break down in nature lasting hundreds, possibly thousands of years. Currently, there are no publicly available test results for PFAS on these waste products.The North Richmond Water Resource Recovery Facility (WRRF), Richmond WRRF - run by Sydney Water - and South Windsor Sewerage Treatment Plan (STP) and McGraths Hill STP discharge treated water into South Creek and watercourses, which flow into Redbank Creek and Rickabys Creek.Recycled water from the Richmond plants is used for irrigation by local institutions, including Western Sydney University and Richmond Golf Club. HCC sells recycled water for irrigation and toilet flushing, as well as using it to irrigate public reserves, including Berger Road Lake Reserve, Berger Road Reserve, Bounty Reserve, Bradley Road Reserve, Colonial Reserve, Mileham Street Reserve, and Cox Street Reserve.Along with areas around at least a dozen other military bases across the country the Hawkesbury drew a short straw and became one of Australia’s PFAS hotspots. The contamination came from RAAF Base Richmond where now banned firefighting foams that contained PFAS were used for decades. PFAS has run off the base onto the Hawkesbury River flood plain, into groundwater and soil and into the river, coming back and forth with the tide and regular floods to spread across the region.“The big thing is that a very, very, very small amount of PFAs goes a long way,” Associate Professor Ian Wright, a scientist at Western Sydney University says. “It's hard to visualise this, but 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.”Once PFAS gets into the food chain it stays there. As well as contaminating fodder that grazing animals eat, it can also, like mercury, biomagnify when animals such as chickens eat insects and platypus feed on invertebrates. Wright explained, “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”.PFAS are not just harmful, they can be deadly and have been found by the World Health Organisation to cause a range of cancers, including kidney, testicular and thyroid, yet the Australian Department of Health claims the evidence is “limited”.The Australian Cancer Atlas, a project of the Queensland University of Technology and the Queensland Cancer Council, shows that the Richmond area has a prevalence of thyroid cancer that is 41% higher than the national average, although without further studies direct causation with PFAS cannot be concluded.Richmond resident Joanna Pickford was advised that her property had been contaminated by PFAS in 2018 and eventually gained a settlement from the Department of Defence as part of a class action on behalf of 30,000 people who live close to three military bases that was settled for $132.7 million, one of four similar suits.“I have hypothyroidism [an under-active thyroid], so does my daughter. I got it when I was 40 and my daughter caught it when she was 26. I've had two male cats that I have had from kittens, both had thyroid problems, and one of them died from thyroid cancer,” Pickford told the Post. As the Federal government moves to dramatically lower the acceptable amount of the cancer-causing chemicals in drinking water, the NSW government has belatedly offered financial assistance for regional councils to test for the so-called forever chemicals. But this is only for drinking water and any testing for wastewater plant products remains largely absent in the emerging national conversation about PFAS.“We don't know where PFAS is, because we're deliberately not testing for it. What is driving this? It's negligence because it is of great concern to people. I found it bizarre that the water industry has been so resistant to grappling with this problem”, Wright says.“If we're using recycled water in urban environments, and particularly in environments that might run off back into waterways, and particularly drinking water supplies - which in this case in the Neapan-Hawkesbury River - we should definitely have a good understanding of PFAS concentrations in recycled water”, said water engineer Professor Stuart Khan, head of the University of New South Wales Civil Engineering School. PFAS in biosolids is arguably even more concerning with about 500,000 tonnes of human waste used annually for fertiliser across Australia, introducing the chemicals directly into the food chain. Yet its producers don’t want to know.“Council is not required to test treated water for PFAS,” the HCC spokesperson said, adding that biosolids were taken away from the plants and used as fertiliser.“Sydney Water covers the cost for biosolids to be reused in agriculture, forestry, and compost markets,” a spokesperson for Sydney Water told the Post. In June, 2024 environmental action group Friends of the Earth released the results of a Freedom of Information request that showed Sydney Water has been testing for PFAS in biosolids - but not recycled water. Of the ten places where testing took place and elevated PFAS was found, Richmond yielded the highest concentration of PFAS.The Hawkesbury has dodged a bullet as biosolids are banned for use in the Sydney basin; instead they are sent into regional NSW.In Australia the wheels of government turn slowly, particularly in the case of PFAS. In September 2022 the draft National Environmental Management Plan 3.0 was released by the Department of Climate Change Energy the Environment and Water. It includes updated guidance on how PFAS should be monitored and managed, including in recycled water and sludge. Consultation on the plan closed in Feb 2023 but since then, nothing.In Europe relatively new EU regulations are being implemented by member states like the Netherlands and Germany. In the US, the Federal EPA released a PFAS action plan that included EPA Method 1633, a testing protocol developed to detect and quantify 40 specific PFAS in various environmental samples, including wastewater, surface water, groundwater, soil, biosolids. As well, many states have developed guidelines and begun testing biosolids for PFAS, given the risks of leaching into groundwater or being taken up by crops.As Australian governments at last begin to face up to the vast problems that PFAS presents, a focus on contaminated waste is essential. In the meantime, more than 1.2 million litres of recycled water is being fed back into the river system that supplies the Hawkesbury’s drinking water, or watering on a field or park near you. 

Richmond School of Arts marked a milestone, recognising the significant contributions of Margaret Thorne, who has served on its board for an impressive 43 years, including 39 as President. In a gesture fitting for her dedication, the school named its “Green Room” after Margaret, to become the “Margaret Thorne Green Room” cementing her legacy in the building she helped shape and modernize over decades.One of Margaret’s proudest achievements was ensuring that the Richmond School of Arts became a place that meets community needs while preserving its historical significance. Despite its age - built in 1866 and originally opened by Sir Henry Parkes - the building now operates as a versatile venue for a wide range of community activities, from Zumba and Pilates classes to theater productions and community meetings.Since joining in 1977, Margaret has led extensive renovations and improvements to the Richmond School of Arts, transforming it into a fully functional and accessible community facility. Under her leadership, the school has seen the installation of a commercial-grade kitchen, air conditioning in both halls, an audio-visual system, updated lighting, and a major refurbishment of the Murray Wing and auditorium. These updates included security cameras, complete padded seating for 168 people, new ramps for accessibility, and other essential amenities that brought the historic building in line with modern standards.Margaret’s influence extended well beyond overseeing building improvements. She has been a consistent presence in the daily operations, spending two full days each week managing administrative duties, organising maintenance, handling bookings, and working closely with tenants. This work has been essential in maintaining the financial and operational stability of the Richmond School of Arts. Her responsibilities also include chairing monthly board meetings and addressing the day-to-day needs of the facility, all aimed at ensuring the building remains sustainable for future generations.The event also recognised Richmond School of Arts Treasurer, Katrina Roberts, who was awarded Life Membership for her 15 years of service. Katrina has worked closely with Margaret, supporting her efforts to strengthen the organisation and continue its development.Margaret’s connection to Richmond’s arts scene is long-standing. Beyond her work at the School of Arts, she was involved with the Richmond Players from 1954 to 2007, participating in productions and directing shows. This combined experience of over 70 years in the arts has made her a well-known figure within the Richmond community.Today, the Richmond School of Arts is a busy hub for the community, hosting everything from dance classes to church groups, weddings, and art shows. Margaret’s enduring work and hands-on involvement have been instrumental in making this possible. With her ongoing roles as Patron and Archivist of the Richmond Literary Institute, she remains deeply engaged in preserving and supporting the arts in Richmond. 

In Cornwallis, striking images of abandoned pipes lying unused on the riverbank vividly illustrate an ongoing disaster. The Hawkesbury City Council's (HCC) inaction has transformed what should have been a straightforward repair into a significant environmental and economic crisis. Four years after the collapse of the river levee and drain, the Cornwallis Canyon remains trapped in a tangled web of bureaucratic delays, posing a constant threat of financial loss to businesses and farmers, as well as serious risks to both life and livestock with each flooding event.A local resident sent these photos to The Hawkesbury Post, showcasing $1 million worth of pipes that were intended for repairs but were found to be the wrong size. These pipes, purchased two years ago, have become a stark reminder of the council’s mismanagement, economic loss and the ongoing frustration to repair the collapsed river levee, a life saving protection during floods.HCC says it will replace the pipes with a new set of box culverts, costing $1.6 million. Despite earlier assurances that all the pipes would be reused, tender documents reveal that 42 of them are slated for crushing and disposal, raising further questions about waste and inefficiency in the project.As we reported last month, the long-awaited $18.7 million repair project, which began nearly four years ago, has faced yet another setback, with completion unlikely before 2026. HCC secured funding for the project through the Disaster Recovery Funding Arrangements in December 2023, which includes $8.2 million for a new road and $13.5 million for riverbank and drainage reconstruction. Despite securing the necessary funding, the project is now held up by the tender process. A four-week tender was issued in June 2024, more than three years after the damage occurred in March 2021. HCC and Public Works shortlisted six companies and appeared ready to select Jeffsann Excavations, people familiar with the tender process told The Hawkesbury Post. Jeffsann Excavations, a local company, had been assisting private landholders with restoration of the damage that occurred to their properties due to the collapsed drain and river levee.Jeffsann's proposal of $13.5 million was $2 million lower than that of Sutherland-based Haslin Constructions. However, in an unexpected turn, Public Works ruled that Jeffsann was disqualified from handling contracts over $9 million, despite previously encouraging the business, just three months earlier, to submit a bid for the job.Neither HCC nor Public Works have commented on the abrupt change in decision. A resident familiar with the situation told the Hawkesbury Post that, due to these ongoing setbacks, it’s likely work in Cornwallis won’t begin until March or April 2025, just as flooding risks peak, potentially extending the timeline into 2026.

"Feral pigs are a big problem out here," Les Sheather explains in his typical, understated way. "At the moment, there's really a lot, and farmers are having trouble with them. When it gets bad, they give us a ring, and we come up, but they've been bad, pretty well since COVID." When the Hawkesbury Post caught up with the newly-elected Mayor of the Hawkesbury, he was out in the Pilliga, Western NSW, doing what he's done for years: pig shooting. Pig shooting is something he does with mates a couple of times a year, and this trip had been planned well before he took on his new role as Mayor, he says. Now retired, he's eager to be back in the council chambers, taking on full leadership responsibilities.Unlike his predecessor, Sheather was more than willing to chat with the Hawkesbury Post, openly discussing issues he plans to address during his two-year tenure. Sheather wants it all on the table, from rate rises and zoning changes to tourism, sports councils, and the contentious raising of the dam wall.Sheather himself acknowledges a fairly unexceptional formal education, having instead learned the rhythms of the river and farming life firsthand. Raised along the banks of the Hawkesbury, he recounts, "We moved into the Hawkesbury by boat. Dad got a job putting the first fuel bowsers on the river, and we lived on a boat. We got as far as Sackville and then stayed. I was very young at the time, and we've been here ever since." He later settled in Ebenezer with his wife of 58 years, Michelle, where they raised their two sons.After leaving school, Sheather worked on farms and on flood land drainage systems around the Hawkesbury before serving two years in the national service. These early experiences forged his deep connection to the land, shaping his straightforward, no-nonsense approach. "I speak from the heart," he says - and he's carried that approach throughout his long career in local government.However, his mayoral victory last month was a surprise. "I found out I had the numbers about five minutes before the vote," he says. Despite winning just 202 personal votes in the September local council elections - the second lowest of all councillors - Sheather won the mayoralty with backing from all Liberal councillors, Small Business Party's Eddie Dogramachi and Shane Djuric of the Shooters, Fishers and Farmers Party. "Extremely privileged, very humble," he says of his new role.Known for his conservative politics, Sheather doesn't shy away from his stance. "I'm as right-wing as they come," he admits but insists he'll vote on issues, not alliances.Fellow Councillor Nathan Zamprogno describes Sheather as "old-school," noting, "Don't expect to see him argue with people on Facebook - that's just not his style." Zamprogno hopes Sheather's traditional approach will be a refreshing contrast to the Council's recent leadership.While Zamprogno acknowledged Sheather's ties with the Liberals, he said that Sheather should be judged by his actions. "I know Les will be judged by his association with the Liberals," Zamprogno said, but added that he hopes Sheather will act independently and stand with the community when necessary. "Factionalism and kowtowing to developer interests is a cancer on local politics that needs to be eradicated," he said.Having known Sheather for nearly 30 years, Zamprogno is confident in his friend's intentions. "I really do think his heart is in the right place. I've rarely seen someone with such a heart for the community, and such a willingness to muck in...just because it's the right thing to do."Sheather insists he's not beholden to any party. Addressing criticism of his ties to the Liberal Party, he says, "I resigned from the Liberal Party in '83 or '84. I'm not here to push outside political agendas that don't serve our city. I'm not about making deals. I won't make deals," he says firmly.Sheather told the HP he gets along with all councillors. He refers to Greens Councillor Danielle Wheeler as an example. "Danielle represents a significant part of our community, and she does it extremely well. That's why she gets elected," he says, adding that councillors like independent Mary Lyons-Buckett and Shooters, Fishers and Farmers' Shane Djuric, bring valuable perspectives, even if their voices are sometimes lost in council discussions. "We need to respect their views and who they represent in the community to achieve that," he says.However, in the last term, Sheather often voted in favour of development proposals that these councillors opposed, and he frequently opposed environmental measures they supported. While Sheather says he respects diverse perspectives, but firmly believes development is crucial to Hawkesbury's future. "If we're looking for development, then we need to look at how we're going to progress it and pay for it in the future," he says. He acknowledges this stance might rile some residents but sees development as essential to addressing the region's low growth rate and its potential impacts.But Sheather's no stranger to controversy. Sheather's role as a director on the Windsor RSL board, a tax-exempt club that brings in over $1.1 million monthly from poker machines, has drawn scrutiny. Windsor RSL allocates just 1.2% of its revenue to community groups. Earlier this year, former Mayor Sarah McMahon resigned from the club's board as the government considers barring councillors from such roles.Sheather also drew criticism when he spoke in favour of poker machine revenue at a local government conference without disclosing his paid role with Windsor RSL at the time.Sheather has influential backers, including the well-funded, pro-development lobby group Hawkesbury Business Group (HBG), chaired by Hypro Pet Foods founder John Camilleri. HBG's stated mission is to advocate for improved planning, infrastructure, and land release, and it provided financial backing for Sheather's and Eddie Dogramaci's election campaigns.Emails obtained by the Hawkesbury Post via Freedom of Information reveal Sheather's instrumental role in brokering the contentious sale of publicly-owned land at Woodlands Park Pony Club to Hypro, a transaction conducted without public tender or community input. The sale was approved by split vote at the last Council meeting. Sheather stayed for the vote and voted in favour of the sale. Hyrpo has now pulled the pin on the sale for unknown reasons.Still, Sheather says he wants to foster a unified council focused on collaboration rather than silos. He is clear on his opposition to significant rate hikes, citing his business background and commitment to making Council assets more efficient without burdening ratepayers.He is also vocal about Hawkesbury's growth potential, cautioning that state intervention could threaten local autonomy if the region doesn't address its low 1% growth rate. "If we don't look at what the community wants, others will come in and tell us," he warns.One pressing issue for Sheather is the impact of rising property values and rates in areas like Scheyville and Maraylya, where he believes zoning adjustments could offer relief. “People are being forced off their properties,” he says, proposing more flexible land-use options. He notes that residents look across to Box Hill and see “land values that have gone through the roof, and they want that opportunity, too.” However, data from Hawkesbury Council tells a different story, with only six ‘hardship applications’ in the 2023/2024 financial year and just two so far this year, as reported to the HP. Not one application has come from Scheyville or Maraylya.Another issue central to Sheather's platform is new flood regulations. He says a recommendation to raise the flood planning level to cover a one in 200-year flood event would be "disastrous" for residents. If adopted, he claims 15,000 more homes would be classed as flood-prone, affecting not just development but insurance, property values, and the ability to obtain finance.He argues that raising the Warragamba Dam wall is the only realistic solution, although the state government disagrees. For lower-risk areas like South Windsor, where flood velocity is minimal, "just backwater", Sheather supports simplifying regulations around home extensions, removing the requirement for a flood study.Sport has always been a part of Sheather's life, and with over 20,000 residents using local sports grounds weekly, he wants to see the review into the Sports Council completed. He said there are ongoing frustrations due to bureaucratic hurdles, but said it's essential to ensure that Council procedures align with the needs of the Sports Council, which controls local sporting facilities. He also sees potential in targeted tourism, suggesting that the Council should support businesses and community groups in promoting events like boat regattas, go-karts, football, and women's cricket rather than backing a "whole city" approach. "We're lacking proper accommodation and even a basic caravan park," he noted, stressing the need for infrastructure that encourages visitors to stay and spend locally.However, as Sheather outlines his case for rezoning and development, the community's response remains uncertain. Given the significant 25% drop in the Liberal Party's primary vote during the last council election, balancing growth with residents' concerns could present challenges. How he navigates these priorities will be crucial not only for his success as Mayor but also for rebuilding the community's trust.

Wilberforce pet food manufacturer Hypro Investments has pulled the pin on the purchase of the Council land which is the home of Wodlands Park Pony Club grounds. The announcement comes just days after Hawkesbury City Council approved - in a split vote - the controversial sale of the land to Hypro, without a public tender. HCC general manager Elizabeth Richardson wrote to councillors this morning to inform them of the decision. “I am emailing to inform you that Hypro Investments have advised Council they have decided not to pursue the purchase of 295 Sackville Road Wilberforce. Staff will prepare a report to a future meeting of Council outlining options moving forward.”More to come.

Hawkesbury City Council (HCC) has opted to remain part of the Hawkesbury River County Council (HRCC), a collaborative body formed by four councils for effective weed management across the region. This outcome comes after a Tuesday’s vote in which councillors supported a recission motion by a decisive margin of 10 to 1. Labor’s Amanda Kotlash was the only councillor who opposed the rescission motion, while former Mayor Sarah McMahon recused herself from the vote after initially supporting the proposal to withdraw from the HRCC in August.The HRCC is responsible for coordinating weed management efforts across Hawkesbury, Penrith, Hills, and Blacktown councils. Each council contributes $265,000 annually to support this initiative, which allows them to pool resources, share expertise, and access significant grant funding that no single council could secure on its own.Councillor Nathan Zamprogno expressed relief that the Liberal councillors reversed their previous stance on the matter. “It was welcome to see the Liberal Councillors reading the room for a change,” he remarked. Zamprogno criticised McMahon’s recusal, stating, “I thought it was cynical that Clr McMahon, who had no valid reason to recuse herself, removed herself from the room just so she did not have to declare what her view on the matter would be.”According to a recent state government report, weeds cost the state approximately $1.9 billion annually, underscoring the magnitude of the problem in the Hawkesbury region. The HRCC’s focus is on managing invasive weed species that not only threaten biodiversity but also pose significant risks to agricultural productivity.HRCC General Manager, Chris Dewhurst told the Hawkesbury Post it was critical to have a coordinated approach to weed management. He highlighted the dire consequences of unmanaged weed infestations, particularly for local farmers. “The weeds we focus on are toxic to cattle and horses, causing sickness or even death, leading to further economic losses,” Dewhurst noted. He pointed out that a severe weed infestation could lead to complete river shutdowns, drastically affecting agricultural irrigation.Dewhurst also pointed to the cost-effectiveness of the HRCC model. Currently, HCC pays approximately $265,000 per year for its membership, which amounts to just $1.34 per resident. In contrast, managing weeds independently would likely double this cost, making it financially imprudent. “It’s difficult to understand how anyone could propose a model where Hawkesbury could somehow get off cheaper,” he said, reflecting on the economic advantages of remaining in the partnership.The importance of collaboration among councils cannot be overstated, especially in a region like Hawkesbury, where environmental conditions such as standing water and flooding exacerbate weed proliferation. Dewhurst said, “This relationship helps maintain positive interactions among councils, ensuring that they work together rather than operate in isolation.”

Richmond Park will fall into a reverent hush as the clock strikes 11 on Monday, November 11, 2024. The Richmond RSL Sub-branch will lead a Remembrance Day service, inviting the community to honour those who have served and sacrificed for the freedoms we enjoy today. But beyond the solemn wreath-laying at the Richmond War Memorial, this day represents something more profound - a chance to connect the past with the future and remind younger generations why this tradition remains so vital.For many young people, Remembrance Day may seem like an event disconnected from their daily lives. After all, the wars it commemorates feel like ancient history. However, this day is more than just a moment of silence; it's a bridge between the past and present, a reflection on how peace, often taken for granted, has been hard-won.The tradition of observing a moment of silence at the eleventh hour on the eleventh day of the eleventh month began after World War I, the so-called "War To End All Wars." It's a time when entire nations pause to reflect on the immense loss of life, not just from that conflict, but from all wars. More than 60,000 Australians died during World War I, and the ripple effect of that loss continues to shape families and communities.But how does this history resonate with younger generations? Today's young people may not feel the immediate impact of global conflicts, but they live in a world shaped by them. The soldiers, airmen, and sailors whose service we remember on this day fought for ideals that still resonate—freedom, fairness, and unity. In many ways, these values are even more relevant in today's rapidly changing world.The Richmond RSL Sub-branch invites all members of the community, young and old, to the 2024 Remembrance Day service. As they gather at Richmond War Memorial, local school students will stand alongside veterans and military personnel, laying wreaths to commemorate those who came before them. It's a powerful visual reminder that, even though past wars may seem far removed, the legacy of service and sacrifice lives on.Involving schools and younger community members is part of a broader effort to ensure the importance of Remembrance Day continues to resonate. The Richmond RSL Sub-Branch hopes that by bringing together people of all ages, younger generations will see the relevance of reflecting on peace and the price paid for it."Remembrance Day is an opportunity for young people to connect with history in a meaningful way," a spokesperson for the Sub-branch said. "It's not just about looking back, but about understanding how the past shapes our present and future. The peace we have today was earned through great sacrifice."So, as Remembrance Day approaches, it's worth pausing to consider why we observe this tradition. It's not just for the older generations who remember the wars firsthand but for young people whose future is being built on the foundation of those sacrifices. This November 11, Richmond will once again honour that legacy—and invite a new generation to carry it forward. Details of the Remembrance Day Service:- Location: Richmond War Memorial, Richmond Park- Time: 10:55am, Monday, November 11, 2024 (assemble by 10:40am)- Covered seating available for veterans and older community members.

In a push to empower the next generation, Windsor Park Public School students are learning life-saving disaster preparedness skills through a hands-on program with the Australian Red Cross and Australia Post. Through the Pillowcase Project workshop, kids are discovering what it takes to be ready for extreme weather events, especially relevant as summer approaches.This isn’t your typical classroom lesson. Students learn exactly what to pack in an emergency, how to keep calm under pressure, and what to expect before, during, and after a disaster. By the end of the workshop, each child will go home with a pillowcase – not for sleepovers but for packing critical emergency items that could make all the difference if disaster strikes.“Working in every community across Australia, our team members are often at the frontline of disaster,” said Nicky Tracey, General Manager of Community and Stakeholder Engagement at Australia Post. “We see firsthand how a disaster can affect a community, and we want to do what we can to provide support.”Tracey pointed out that with hotter, drier summers forecast, these workshops become crucial in helping communities prepare. “The workshops and resources will give children in high-risk areas the practical skills in the event of extreme weather like bushfires. Pillowcase workshops help more than 6,000 young Australians in high-risk areas every year to prepare for a major disaster before they are in the thick of one.”The initiative taps into the power of young people to drive change within their own families. Antonia Mackay, Resilience Manager at Australian Red Cross, says children are often surprisingly strong contributors to disaster resilience. “Children are positive change agents within their families and their communities. If given the opportunity to participate, they can make a very real and positive difference before, during, and after an emergency,” she said.As part of the larger EmergencyRedi campaign, Australia Post is also delivering over 3 million “Prepare” flyers across disaster-prone areas, from Lismore to Bundaberg, packed with tips to help families get ready for an emergency. To support communities impacted by disasters, locals can donate to the Australian Red Cross at Post Offices or on the Australia Post website.In a changing climate, teaching children these skills could one day make all the difference.

Windsor RSL Club has reported record profits for the 2024 financial year, largely driven by local residents’ losses on its 178 poker machines. Despite this financial success, the club continues to contribute only a small fraction of its tax-free earnings back to the community - particularly to the ex-servicemen and women it was originally established to support.The club’s total revenue for the year exceeded $22 million, with $13.6 million generated from poker machine operations. However, donations to community and veteran organisations remained disproportionately low. In 2024, Windsor RSL allocated just 1.2 percent of its total revenue, approximately $266,707, to local groups - nearly 20 percent less than the previous year, despite a significant rise in profits. In 2023, the club donated $331,900.RSL Clubs have come under increasing fire over the past few years with critics arguing that funds lost by patrons at poker machines continue to serve the club's commercial interests rather than the community. In September the national head of the RSL of Australia supported a push to stop licenced clubs from using the RSL letters in their names amid a fight over whether poker machines should be allowed in the venues at all.For the first time, Windsor RSL’s annual report featured a prominent infographic on the front page, presenting a polished image of the club's contributions to the community. The page was filled with gimmicky statistics, including the number of “schnittys” sold, burgers, beers, and cups of coffee served, alongside raffle tickets and bingo games. What was glaringly absent was any mention of the club’s 178 poker machines - the real financial engine driving its revenues. This omission creates a misleading impression that the club’s focus is on hospitality, and community service rather than its real financial driver - gaming losses. These losses by patrons helped drive the club’s fortunes with a 38% increase in Earnings Before Interest, Tax, Depreciation, and Amortisation (EBITDA), which rose to $4.2 million. Net profit climbed from $1 million last year to $1.5 million in 2024. Yet, Windsor RSL President David Ingram provided no substantial commentary on any part of the club's operations nor the club’s obligations to veterans or the community in the annual report. Instead, Ingram briefly stated that the club aims to "operate in a responsible and financially prudent manner," adding that Windsor RSL "plays an important role in honouring present and returned servicemen and servicewomen."RSL Clubs were originally established to champion the welfare of Australian Defence Force members, both serving and retired. However, the financial reality paints a different picture. Most funds raised from poker machine losses appear to fuel the club’s commercial expansion, rather than support the veterans and their families as the organisation’s constitution mandates.Windsor RSL’s retained profits now exceed $14 million - an extraordinary amount for a not-for-profit organisation, which pays no tax. This financial cushion enabled the club to acquire the nearby Windsor Country Golf Club and add 12 more poker machines to its roster. The club’s continued investment in gaming operations has sparked growing concerns about problem gambling in the Hawkesbury region. With over 800 electronic gaming machines in the area, advocates say these venues contribute to financial distress, mental health issues, and family violence.Meanwhile, the community in Kurrajong Heights is once again rallying against a proposed development for a casino and pub in the historic precinct. Despite widespread opposition to the initial proposal, the developer has submitted a revised application, seeking to open a gaming venue operating seven days a week, with VIP access for gamblers and a capacity of over 300 patrons.

Police are currently searching a property in Upper Colo for the body of 82-year-old miniature horse breeder Edwin Dobbin, who has been missing since September and is believed to have been shot in the head. The search is part of an ongoing investigation into Dobbin's disappearance and suspected murder.Camden Police charged Phillip Robert Bruce, 67, of Smithfield, with murder following his arrest yesterday in connection with Dobbin’s disappearance. Dobbin, who was from Leppington, was reported missing in September, prompting an extensive police investigation.Police allege that Bruce, known to the missing man, provided conflicting information during the investigation. After extensive inquiries involving the State Crime Command’s Homicide Squad, Bruce was arrested at his home in Smithfield around 2:45 pm on Thursday, October 24, 2024. He was taken to Fairfield Police Station and did not apply for bail during his appearance at Fairfield Local Court today.The matter has been adjourned until December 19 at Parramatta Local Court.Following the arrest, officers from the Hawkesbury Police Area Command executed a crime scene warrant at a property in Upper Colo, where they believe Dobbin’s body may be buried. The search of the property is ongoing today, Friday, October 25.Bruce faces multiple charges, including murder, hindering the investigation of a serious indictable offence, and unlawful disposal of a corpse. Police allege that Bruce and Dobbin were known to each other. The investigation remains ongoing.